The domain 1homedesigns.com may be for sale. Please click here to inquire Vatican hosts major atheism conference with University of Kent The global Understanding Unbelief programme to advance the scientific understanding of atheism and nonreligion will today (28 May) present results from its research at the Vatican in Rome. The multidisciplinary research programme led by the University of Kent maps the nature and diversity of 'unbelief' across six countries including Brazil, China, Denmark, Japan, UK and the USA The research is supported by a 2.3 million grant from the John Templeton Foundation, and is led by the University of Kent in collaboration with St Mary's University Twickenham, Coventry University and Queen's University Belfast. Researchers asked about attitudes to issues like supernatural phenomena, such as life after death and astrology, whether the 'universe is ultimately meaningless' and what values matter most to them. They used internationally recognised terms to identify unbelievers - atheists (i.e., people who 'don't believe in God') and agnostics (i.e., people who 'don't know whether there is a God or not, and don't believe there is a way to find out'). Key findings from the research include: Unbelievers exhibit significant diversity both within, and between, different countries In all six countries, majorities of unbelievers identify as having 'no religion' Relatively few select 'atheist' or 'agnostic' as their preferred (non)religious or secular identity Popular assumptions about 'convinced, dogmatic atheists' do not stand up to scrutiny Unbelief in God doesn't necessarily entail unbelief in other supernatural phenomena and the majority of unbelievers in all countries surveyed expressed belief in one or more supernatural phenomena A common supposition - that of the purposeless unbeliever, lacking anything to ascribe ultimate meaning to the universe - does not bear scrutiny Most unbelievers endorse objective moral values, human dignity and attendant rights, and the 'deep value' of nature, at similar rates to the general populations in their countries Unbelievers and general populations show high agreement concerning the values most important for 'finding meaning in the world and your own life'. 'Family' and 'freedom' ranked highly for all. Co-hosting the event are the Pontifical Council for Culture - the Vatican department responsible for dialoguing with non-believers - and the Nonreligion and Secularity Research Network, co-founded in 2008 by University of Kent sociologist Dr Lois Lee. Dr Lee, who is Senior Research Fellow in Kent's Department of Theology and Religion, is Principal Investigator for Understanding Unbelief. The project is co-led by psychologist Dr Miguel Farias (Coventry University), anthropologist Dr Jonathan Lanman (Queen's University Belfast), and sociologist Professor Stephen Bullivant (St Mary's University). Speaking about the research project, Dr Lee said: 'These findings show once and for all that the public image of the atheist is a simplification at best, and a gross caricature at worst. Instead of relying on assumptions about what it means to be an atheist, we can now work with a real understanding of the many different worldviews that the atheist population includes. The implications for public and social policy are substantial -- and this study also stands to impact on more everyday interactions in religiously diverse societies.' Dr Lanman said: 'Our data directly counter common stereotypes about unbelievers. A common view of unbelievers is that they lack a sense of objective morality and purpose but possess an arrogant confidence and a very different set of values from the rest of the population. Our representative data across six diverse countries show that none of this is true. In a time when our societies seem to be growing more and more polarized, it has been both interesting and encouraging to see that one of the supposed big divides in human life (believers vs. unbelievers) may not be so big after all.' The conference will run from 28 -30 May, 2019. ### The full 'Understanding Unbelief' report is available from 00.01am Tuesday 28 May 2019 at https:/ / research. kent. ac. uk/ understandingunbelief/ reports/ For further information and interview or image requests contact Sandy Fleming at the University of Kent Press Office. Tel: +44 (0)1227 823581 Email: S.Fleming@kent.ac.uk News releases can also be found at http://www. kent. ac. uk/ news University of Kent on Twitter: http://twitter. com/ UniKent Images on the cover of the report are not free to use. Any media wishing to use those images, should contact the photographer Aubrey Wade at aubrey@aubreywade.com The conference will mark the fiftieth anniversary of the Vatican's own Culture of Unbelief conference in March 1969. That event, also held at the Gregorian University, was the world's first international conference for the social-scientific study atheism and nonreligiosity. The current collaboration comes at a time when rates of unbelief and nonreligion appear to be rapidly rising in many countries throughout the world, with potentially significant social, cultural, and political implications. New figures published last year by Understanding Unbelief researcher Professor Stephen Bullivant revealed that 70% of UK 18-29 year-olds identify as having 'no religion'. Established in 1965, the University of Kent - the UK's European university - now has almost 20,000 students across campuses or study centres at Canterbury, Medway, Tonbridge, Brussels, Paris, Athens and Rome. It was ranked 22nd in the Guardian University Guide 2018 and in June 2017 was awarded a gold rating, the highest, in the UK Government's Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF). In 2018 it was also ranked in the top 500 of Shanghai Ranking's Academic Ranking of World Universities and 47th in the Times Higher Education's (THE) new European Teaching Rankings. Kent is ranked 17th in the UK for research intensity (REF 2014). It has world-leading research in all subjects and 97% of its research is deemed by the REF to be of international quality. Along with the universities of East Anglia and Essex, Kent is a member of the Eastern Arc Research Consortium (http://www. kent. ac. uk/ about/ partnerships/ eastern-arc. html ). The University is worth 0.7 billion to the economy of the south east and supports more than 7,800 jobs in the region. Student off-campus spend contributes 293.3m and 2,532 full-time-equivalent jobs to those totals. Kent has received two Queen's Anniversary prizes for Higher and Further Education. This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. NA Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan receives Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe in Hanoi on May 27th (Photo: VNA) The host leader reiterated that Vietnam always treasures the traditional friendship and comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership with China, which is a consistent viewpoint in its foreign policy. Relations between the two Parties and countries, including between the Vietnamese NA and the National Peoples Congress of China, have been developing, resulting in encouraging outcomes in all aspects, from politics, trade, investment, to locality-to-locality cooperation and people-to-people exchange. On the sidelines of regional and international parliamentary forums, delegations of the Vietnamese and Chinese parliaments have regularly met to discuss issues of shared concern, Chairwoman Ngan noted. At the meeting, Minister Wei said his visit aims to help implement Vietnamese and Chinese leaders common perceptions on the enhancement of the strategic trust and relations, thereby helping to develop bilateral ties in a stable and healthy manner. He noted the countries have sustained the upward trend in their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, affirming that China is ready to join hands with Vietnam to realise their leaders common perceptions and increase cooperation in different fields, including between the legislative bodies. Briefing his host on the outcomes of the talks with Vietnamese Defence Minister Ngo Xuan Lich, Wei said the two sides agreed to coordinate actively with each other to realise Vietnamese and Chinese leaders common perceptions on bilateral friendship reinforcement. They also witnessed the signing of cooperation documents on military medicine and staff training, and the presentation of medical equipment. Chairwoman Ngan applauded the talks outcomes, stressing the importance of cooperation between the two defence ministries and the two militaries. She also highly valued the militaries and ministries role in maintaining a peaceful and stable environment for each countrys development and bilateral relations. She recognised the two ministries effective implementation of important cooperation mechanisms like the border defence exchanges, and asked both sides to continue working together to carry out cooperation mechanisms and increase coordination at international and regional forums. On this occasion, Minister Wei conveyed an invitation from Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress of China Li Zhanshu to Chairwoman Ngan to pay an official visit to the country./. Fairbanks, AK (99707) Today Snow this evening will give way to lingering snow showers late. Low 21F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 100%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.. Tonight Snow this evening will give way to lingering snow showers late. Low 21F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 100%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches. Most of the participating companies, including Electrolux, Oriflame, Scania, ABB, Ericsson, and Volvo, have already been investing in Vietnam for many years. In his speech, PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc highly valued the Swedish firms prestige in the global market, including Vietnam. The Swedish government and people have always been a good friend to the country, giving enormous assistance to the Vietnamese people during the fight for national independence in the past, as well as national development at present, the PM noted. He expressed his hope that Swedish businesses will continue investing and applying new, cutting-edge technologies in Vietnam, as well as further taking part in local socio-economic development. Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) shakes hands with a Swedish business executive at a meeting in Stockholm on May 27th. (Photo: VNA) At the meeting, CEO of Business Sweden Ylva Berg thanked the PM and relevant agencies of the Vietnamese Government for helping to successfully organise the recent visit by Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree. She said she believes that the official visit to her country by PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc will create a new milestone in the promotion of bilateral economic, trade, and investment ties. Leaders of Swedish companies shared the hope that the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) will be signed soon, thereby facilitating Swedish trade with Vietnam. Jonas Samuelson, CEO of home appliance manufacturer Electrolux, said the Vietnamese market generates USD15 million in annual revenue and is the most important market of his company in Southeast Asia. Hakan Buskhe, CEO of defence and security solution provider Saab, said his group invests 25 percent of its revenue in research and development every year. It has had cooperation activities in terms of air space and seaport management, and it is ready to transfer technologies to Vietnamese partners. Meanwhile, Fredrik Jejdling, Executive Vice President of telecom giant Ericsson, noted that the group has invested in Vietnam since 1993 and cooperated well with Vietnamese telecom service providers. The group is working to set up a coordination mechanism for providing 5G infrastructure in Vietnam, and wishes to contribute more to the countrys innovation process through software and technological solutions, he added. Johan Soderstrom, Managing Director of ABB Sweden that has been operating in the Southeast Asian nation since 1998, spoke highly of the Vietnamese markets potential. He expressed a strong commitment to bolstering cooperation with Vietnam, especially in developing the power grid network. Welcoming the companies plans, PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc affirmed that authorised agencies of Vietnam will provide the best possible support for Swedish businesses to expand investment. He also promised to directly listen to their opinions and remove obstacles so that major companies of Sweden can help bring advanced technologies to Vietnam. As a gateway of ASEAN markets and with many new-generation free trade agreements already or about to be signed, Vietnam is an open market for Swedish enterprises, the PM added./. The wife of the President, Aisha Buhari, has called for the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators of drug trafficking, which led to th... The wife of the President, Aisha Buhari, has called for the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators of drug trafficking, which led to the detention of Zainab Aliyu in Saudi Arabia. Mrs Buhari made the call on Monday when the victim of the drug trafficking conspiracy, Zainab Aliyu, was led to the Presidential Villa by her parents to break the Ramadan fast with her. Recall that Zainab Aliyu, who was travelling to Saudi Arabia from the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, had drugs planted on her by drug cartels operating at the airport. She was arrested by the Saudi Arabia authorities, for possession of banned substance. However, Zainab was released after she was found innocent of the offence by the Saudi authorities, following the intervention of the Federal Government and President Muhammadu Buhari. The wife of the President, therefore, called on intending air travellers to be mindful and careful to avoid falling victims. While fielding questions from State House Correspondents, the victim Miss Zainab Aliyu, called on the Nigerian authorities to ensure that those engaged in the act were prosecuted according to laid down procedure. I want to thank the wife of the President for inviting us to break our fast with her and Nigerians for their prayers and efforts to ensure my release. Though, I feel very bad that the cartel, who masterminded this act (to me) was granted bail. They have to be punished for what they did to me to serve as a deterrent to others. Im not the only innocent person that fell victim, there were many innocent persons who fell victims of this illicit drugs traffickers. So, I will like to call on Nigerian authorities to punish the cartel, she said. On her part, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed her appreciation to the wife of the President for hosting the family to iftar. Also speaking, Mr Habibu Aliyu, the father of the victim, thanked Federal Government and President Muhammadu Buhari for facilitating the release of Zainab Aliyu from Saudi Arabian Prison. Personally, since we started the struggle, I did not spend money throughout the period, so I thank everybody who contributed to the release of my daughter. I feel sad that the cartel, who perpetrated this act was granted bail. They even undermined the government because as I speak to you one of them was allowed to perform lesser hajj and he returned to Nigeria. Yes, the offence is bailable but there are stringent conditions that should be attached to serve as a deterrent. And to my surprise, the perpetrators have not shown any remorse for committing the act, for day one. One of them knelt down and held my leg saying that she was doing it for a living. So, you can imagine shes living at the detriment of someones life, he said. President Muhammadu Buhari On Monday in Abuja said he would make police and judiciary more efficient in his second term as he also crit... President Muhammadu Buhari On Monday in Abuja said he would make police and judiciary more efficient in his second term as he also criticised outgoing Senate president Bukola Saraki and speaker Yakubu Dogara for delaying budget passage during his first term. Buhari said this on Monday in Abuja in an NTA special interview. He described as unpatriotic the action of the two principal officers of the National Assembly over the years. He rated both Saraki and Dogara, very very low over the budget delays. I told Saraki and Dogara that by holding the budget for 7 months, youre not hurting me, youre hurting Nigerians? In terms of patriotism, I rate them very very low, Buhari said on Monday night. I feel very bad indeed. NASS to hold the Budget for seven months, he said. Buhari said he would reform both the judiciary and the police to ensure effective administration. Police and judiciary are to be in the frontline of law and order. They should be able to know the offender in their communities. What the government needs to do is to provide the basic need. People should try to expose criminals in their communities, he said. Buhari hailed Nigerians for their love, respect, and trust in him. He commended them for finding him worthy to rule for the second term in the office. Buhari linked the secret of love, respect, and trust he enjoyed from Nigerian citizens to his hard work to survive in life. He further promised that he would continue to do his best towards national security. He noted that his coming to power in 2015 was a relief to North-East of the country because there was a reduction of activities of Boko Haram in the region. He said the administration had ensured food security by making fertiliser available and affordable for the farmers. He said the present administration had worked tirelessly to recover looted money from banks in Europe and U.S. He explained that the recovery was a gradual process by investigation. Vietnamese Minister of National Defence Gen. Ngo Xuan Lich and his Chinese counterpart Sen. Lt. Gen. Wei Fenghe shake hands at their talks in Hanoi on May 27th (Photo: VNA) The talks were held between General Ngo Xuan Lich - Politburo member, Deputy Secretary of the Central Military Commission and Minister of National Defence of Vietnam - and Sen. Lt. Gen. Wei Fenghe - State Councillor and Minister of National Defence of China, who is paying an official visit to Vietnam from May 27th to 29th. At the event, the two sides discussed current affairs in each country and defence relations, particularly the implementation of the 2003 protocol on bilateral defence cooperation and the 2017 joint vision statement on defence cooperation until 2025. The ministers shared the view that recent progress in defence ties demonstrates the high political trust between the two countries. They spoke highly of the cooperation activities that have been carried out in a relatively comprehensive manner with practical content, matching the demand and capacity of each side. High-level meetings and mutual visits by leaders of the two militaries have been promoted. Meanwhile, some cooperation mechanisms have been set up and expanded, including the defence strategy dialogue, young officers exchanges, joint patrols on the Gulf of Tonkin, border defence friendship exchanges, and cooperation activities between border military zones, they noted. The officers specified 2019 as the year for breakthroughs in the two militaries relations on the thresholds of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the Vietnam-China diplomatic ties in 2020. They agreed to continue enhancing defence links in terms of Party-related and political works; complete joint historical studies and documentaries; intensify cooperation in military medicine, the defence industry, and United Nations peacekeeping; and foster ties between the countries naval and air force services. Special attention will be paid to border defence friendship exchange programs, along with relations between military zones and border guard, naval, and air forces of Vietnam with the southern military region of China. Regarding outstanding issues, the two sides agreed on the need to persist in peacefully resolving the problems to ensure solid mutual trust, and together build a peaceful environment in the East Sea. A peaceful environment in the East Sea built by the two sides will benefit not only China or Vietnam, but also partners who wish to cooperate with the two countries for common development, they stressed. Following the talks, the officers witnessed the signing of several cooperation agreements between the two ministries relevant agencies, including a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on military medicine cooperation, an agreement on military staff training in the 2019-2020 academic year, and an MoU on military education between the National Defence Academy of Vietnam and the National Defence University of China. The Chinese defence ministry also presented medical and search and rescue equipment to its Vietnamese counterpart. On this occasion, Minister Ngo Xuan Lich invited his counterpart Wei Fenghe to attend the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus and send naval ships to the maritime security drill and the international naval parade in Vietnam in 2020 when the country takes on its role as the ASEAN Chair./. 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. At the talks (Photo: VNA) PM Phuc, who is on an official visit to Sweden from May 26th-28th, also expressed his delight at visiting the European country on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties. He affirmed that the Vietnamese people always remember the precious support by the Swedish people during the anti-American war, as well as in its current national development and global integration. Loefven, for his part, said the visit will create a new driving force for bilateral ties, adding that the Swedish government considers Vietnam an important partner in the region. The two PMs shared view that Vietnam-Sweden ties have thrived in diverse areas at many levels over the past few years, thus tapping each sides strengths. In particular, the visit to Vietnam by Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria on May 6th-8th has contributed to cementing friendship and mutual understanding between the two nations. They agreed to facilitate all-level visits and continue effectively implementing bilateral cooperation mechanisms. As bilateral trade-investment ties have yet to match the two nations potential, the Vietnamese PM asked the Swedish government to encourage firms to enhance investment in Vietnam in fields of their strength, such as manufacturing, chemicals, electronics, information and communications, forest plantation, sustainable wood processing, waste treatment, pharmaceuticals, and the support industry for automobiles. They also vowed to increase bilateral partnership in innovation, smart urban development, environment, artificial intelligence, information and communications, and healthcare. Host and guest welcomed the organisation of the Vietnam - Sweden Business Forum in Stockholm during the visit, and affirmed the importance of promoting connectivity among businesses following the Vietnam-Sweden Business Summit held in Hanoi during Crown Princess Victorias visit. The Vietnamese PM asked Sweden to support the Vietnam-European Union (EU) comprehensive partnership. The two PMs promised to work closely together to step up the signing of the EU - Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and the EU - Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement in the coming weeks to bring benefits to both sides. On the occasion, the Swedish government leader presented a letter of intent on an investment credit worth over USD2 billion in Vietnam to his guest. The host also spoke highly of the Vietnamese communitys contributions to prosperity and cultural diversity in Sweden as well as the promotion of bilateral trade and investment. The two sides pledged to boost liaisons at regional and global forums such as the United Nations, the Asia-Europe Meeting, the ASEAN - EU cooperation, as well as join common efforts to cope with global issues, climate change, and ensure sustainable development. They reached a consensus on the importance of the settlement of disputes by peaceful means, ensuring navigation and aviation freedom in line with international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Loefven also accepted Phucs invitation to visit Vietnam with great pleasure./. Mr. Gitanas Nauseda (Source: Xinhua/VNA) Nauseda, born in 1964, gained 72 percent of the vote, according to election authority results after 42 percent of the ballots were counted. Mr. Ingrida Simonyte, 44, a former finance minister in a center-right government, stood at 28 percent. I was the independent candidate and my task in this election campaign was to unify Lithuanian people, no matter where they live, in small regions, villages, small cities or big cities, Mr. Gitanas Nauseda said after declaring victory. I am grateful to the people who voted today and I can promise that politics will be different now in Lithuania. Everybody deserves a better life in our beautiful country, Nauseda told a cheering crowd of supporters. Mr. Nauseda has no affiliation with any party. With little experience in politics, his campaign was focused on emphasizing his independence, suggesting he can cooperate with all parties in government. The Presidents main task is to oversee Lithuanias foreign and security policy, including acting as the supreme commander of the armed forces./. Mini robots attract visitors at the China International Big Data Industry Expo 2019, which began in Guiyang, Guizhou province, on Sunday.[Qiu Lingfeng/For China Daily] President's message calls for tackling legal, security, governance challenges President Xi Jinping called on Sunday for strengthened cooperation among countries to explore opportunities of digital, internet-based intelligent development and to properly address legal, security and governance challenges arising from big data industry development. He made the remarks in a congratulatory letter to the China International Big Data Industry Expo 2019, which kicked off in Guiyang, Guizhou province. The new generation of information technology, represented by the internet, big data and artificial intelligence, is booming at present and has significant and profound influence on various countries' economic development, social progress and people's lives, Xi said in the letter. China attaches great importance to the development of the big data industry and is willing to share opportunities of the digital economy's development with other countries and jointly explore new growth drivers and development paths by exploring new technologies, new business forms and new models, Xi added. With increasingly wider applications of digital technologies in China, the country is expected to generate and store 27.8 percent of global online data by 2025, up from 23.4 percent last year, according to a report by market researcher International Data Corp and data storage firm Seagate. In comparison, the US share will stand at 17.5 percent by 2025, a drop from its 21 percent share in 2018, the report added. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that from medicine to transportation to farming, big data presents the world with a remarkable tool to advance global progress, but with that opportunity also comes risk. "We must work together to ensure that big data, and the technologies that it enables, are harnessed for the benefit of mankind while minimizing the risks to development, peace and security and human rights," Guterres said in a congratulatory letter to the expo. Miao Wei, minister of industry and information technology, said China has already made significant progress in bolstering the big data industry with a string of big data platforms established in sectors such as manufacturing, commerce, finance, transportation and medical care. "We will make a fresh push to integrate cutting-edge information technologies into the real economy, including establishing a national industrial data center, to better power the country's sprawling manufacturing sector," Miao said at the opening ceremony of the big data expo. According to the ministry, China's digital economy reached a total volume of over 31 trillion yuan ($4.5 trillion), or 34.8 percent of its GDP, in 2018. Yang Xiaowei, deputy head of the Cyberspace Administration of China, also called for more efforts to develop the homegrown big data sector and highlighted that stepping up research and development is key to mastering core technologies. Paul Romer, co-recipient of the 2018 Nobel Prize in economics and professor of economics at New York University, said he is impressed by China's proposal in cyber sovereignty which he understands as: Each nation must be able to write and enforce its own laws that regulate cyberspace, and ensure that cyberspace works to the benefit of everyone in the nation. "China's articulation and implementation of cyber sovereignty means it is a chance for the world to see a different kind of organization for cyberspace, and a chance to see that with the right structure, we can get tons of benefits," Romer added. Lu Yong, vice-president of Huawei Technologies Co, said China's digital economy has thrived on the basis that China has built the world's largest 4G network. "5G is not just a faster 4G. It will fundamentally reshape how enterprises run businesses and overhaul a wide range of industries by using data to create more value," Lu said. BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Scapegoating China for its trade imbalance and even some of its domestic economic issues, the United States is attempting to squeeze an unequal trade deal out of China, using measures such as tariff hikes and targeting its tech companies. The United States' unilateral and protectionist act has unnerved the wider international community, as many are concerned that a trade war between the world's two largest economies would hit the brakes on the already slow global economic growth. It is the 21st century. The days are long over when China could be easily coerced into accepting an unequal treaty. After 70 years of development, especially four decades of rapid growth, China now has the right toolkit to face U.S. trade bullying, and also the strength to seal a deal on equal terms that can benefit both parties. The trade hawks in Washington should not count on their maximum pressure tactic to bring China down to its knees. On the contrary, it will only speed up China's technology innovation to eventually achieve technological independence. China never wants to fight a war of any kind with the United States. It has repeatedly called on the United States to change its course and meet the Chinese side halfway to reach a mutually beneficial deal. Beijing has not backtracked on its commitments, as the White House has accused it of doing. One can see clearly that it is Washington that has been flip-flopping all along after reviewing the past 11 rounds of trade talks. The two sides have reached consensus on trade and issued a joint statement on ending trade frictions in Washington in May last year. However, Washington has abandoned the agreement. Seven months later, the two sides reached consensus on the value of China's purchases from the United States, but in the following talks the U.S. side once again rejected the deal. Earlier this month, Washington decided to raise additional tariffs on 200 billion U.S. dollars' worth of Chinese goods from 10 percent to 25 percent, on the eve of the latest round of trade talks. However, the Chinese delegation still flew to Washington for the trade consultations. Such responsible actions on Beijing's part demonstrate China's utmost sincerity and the good will to close the gaps between the two sides. The United States' habit of blackmailing is also sending a clear message to the world: It will crush anyone it sees as a potential challenger to its hegemony, like what it did to Japan in the 1980s. Moreover, in this highly-interconnected world economy, Washington's trade bullyism has threatened to disrupt the global supply chains, which will have far-reaching repercussions on confidence in collaboration and cooperation. China is clear about the United States' intentions and well-prepared for any potential challenges. U.S. hawks should abandon their Cold War mentality, return to reason and show sincerity in their trade negotiations with China. G20 international merchandise trade growth remains weak in first quarter 2019 Download the entire news release (including graphs and tables PDF) 28/05/2019 - Growth in G20 international merchandise trade, seasonally adjusted and expressed in current US dollars, remained weak in the first quarter of 2019. G20 exports rose marginally by 0.4% quarteronquarter while imports fell by 1.2%. Compared to the third quarter of 2018, when the first round of new tariff measures affecting US-China trade came into effect, G20 exports are down by 0.8% and imports by 2.7%. Imports contracted in the United States (by minus 1.9%) in the first quarter of 2019, with US imports from China falling by 12% (according to preliminary data), the largest fall on record. Imports also continued to contract in China (by minus 0.5%, following the previous quarters contraction of minus 6.0%). Although exports were up 3.9% in China and 0.7% in the United States, they remain below recent highs. Through closely integrated supply chains, international trade in other Asian economies has also been impacted by rising US-China trade tensions, as have exchange rates with the US dollar, with exports and imports contracting significantly in Indonesia (minus 4.3% and minus 15.3% respectively), Japan (minus 2.3% and minus 4.7%) and Korea (minus 7.1% and minus 7.7%). NonG20 economies in the region also experienced significant falls in trade. In other G20 economies, only the United Kingdom recorded strong growth in exports (6.2%) and imports (5.0%) in part reflecting firms stockpiling and increasing international trade activity due to Brexit uncertainty. In the remaining G20 economies, exports grew moderately in Australia (1.1%), Mexico (1.1%), the EU 28 (1.0%), Germany (0.9%), India (0.8%) and France (0.7%) and imports grew strongly in Turkey (5.3%) and Russia (3.5%).. A cloud of uncertainty had loomed over the summit between Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and visiting U.S. President Donald Trump due to differing approaches to the recent missile launches of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), local media reported on Monday. Speaking at a joint press conference in Tokyo, Trump took a conciliatory tone regarding the DPRK firing projectiles earlier this month, stating that he did not see the DPRK's actions as violating U.N. Security Council resolutions. "All I know is there have been no nuclear tests, there have been no ballistic missiles going out, there have been no long-range missiles going out," Trump said, adding that he is in "no rush" to strike a deal with the DPRK over its denuclearization. Abe had relied on Trump, who has met with top DPRK leader Kim Jong Un twice for denuclearization talks, hoping the U.S. president will help with the abduction issue of Japanese nationals, according to local media. Japan protested against the DPRK's launches of short-range ballistic missiles on May 9 for its violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions, while Trump downplayed their significance. Trump said Sunday on Twitter that the DPRK fired off "some small weapons, which disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me." The remarks contradicted his security adviser John Bolton who said that the launch of missiles violated U.N. Security Council resolutions. When asked if he was not bothered at all about the missiles, Trump said, "No, I am not. I am personally not." Politicians speak at the European Parliament General Assembly Hall in Brussels, Belgium, as early results of the four-day European Union election, which ended on Sunday, are released. DURSUN AYDEMIR / GETTY IMAGES Liberals, greens and populists fare well amid high turnout The four-day European Parliament election ended on Sunday with the powerful center-right and center-left party groups losing their combined, decadeslong majority while liberals, greens and populists surged to paint a new political landscape for the European Union. The center-right European People's Party, retaining 179 seats compared with 216 in 2014, remains the largest party group. The center-left Socialists and Democrats saw their seats dropping to 150 from the 191 in 2014. They are expected to seek support from the Liberals, with over 100 seats, and Greens, with nearly 70 seats, to form a pro-European Union coalition in the 751-seat Parliament. The Parliament plays a major role in shaping EU legislation and in selecting the head of the executive European Commission. Overall, the four pro-EU party groups in the Parliament secured 505 seats. "For the first time in 40 years, the two classical parties, socialists and conservatives, will no longer have a majority," said Guy Verhofstadt, leader of the liberal ALDE bloc and a former Belgian prime minister. "It's clear this evening is a historical moment, because there will be a new balance of power in the European Parliament." "Europe wins! Voter turnout very high and pro-European parties are strongest," Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel said on social media on Sunday night. The 50.5 percent turnout in the world's largest transnational election was the highest in 20 years. Turnout was the highest in Belgium at 89 percent and lowest in Slovenia at 28 percent. Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece and Luxembourg have a compulsory voting system. Tristan Thomson, a Belgian student who studies in London, flew back to Brussels to cast his first vote in a European election. "I am very happy to be here to see the turnout, because it's a massive campaign this year where many people take the European election seriously," he said. "I am very proud to be a European citizen," he added. In the United Kingdom, which took part in the vote due to the nation's delayed departure from the EU, the newly formed Brexit Party, led by Nigel Farage, was the biggest winner, with 32 percent of the vote, while the Conservatives and Labour suffered major losses. In Germany, the two major centrist parties suffered heavy blows. Chancellor Angela Merkel's Christian Democratic Union plunged to 28 percent of the vote from 35 percent in 2014, while the center-left Social Democratic Party dropped to 15.5 percent from 27 percent. The right-wing populist Alternative for Germany did not fare as well as expected. It was projected in exit polls to win 10.5 percent. Populist parties made major advances in France, Italy and Poland. Marine le Pen's National Rally party won 24 percent of the vote over the 22.5 percent by President Emmanuel Macron's party. Le Pen, who lost out to Macron in the 2017 presidential election, called on him to dissolve Parliament and hold new elections, but her proposal was quickly rejected by the government. "It is up to the president of the republic to draw conclusions. He put his presidential credibility on the line in this vote in making it a referendum on his policies and even his personality," Le Pen said. In Italy, Matteo Salvini, leader of the League party, surprised many by winning 33.6 percent of the vote according to preliminary results, making it the largest party in Italy. In Hungary, Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Fidesz party was a big winner with 52 percent of the vote and 13 of the country's 21 seats. "We are small, but we want to change Europe," Orban said. He described the elections as "the beginning of a new era against migration". In Spain, the ruling Socialist party took a clear lead with 32.8 percent of the vote and 20 seats. Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras called for an early election after his Syriza party was defeated by the opposition New Democracy party. The European Parliament has insisted that one of its own winning members should succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as president of the European Commission. But many national leaders, who are expected to meet in Brussels on Tuesday, have said that they don't want to be bound by that decision. Members of the scientific expedition checks the remote operated vehicle (ROV), Discovery, before it dives into the sea in the south of the Mariana Trench, May 27, 2019. China's research vessel KEXUE (Science) on Monday started to explore a series of seamounts in the south of the Mariana Trench, the deepest place of the earth. The remote operated vehicle (ROV), Discovery, dived into the sea on Monday morning to collect videos, information and samples from a small seamount in the southwest of the targeted area. (Xinhua/Zhang Xudong) ABOARD KEXUE, May 27 (Xinhua) -- China's research vessel KEXUE (Science) on Monday started to explore a series of seamounts in the south of the Mariana Trench, the deepest place of the earth. The remote operated vehicle (ROV), Discovery, dived into the sea on Monday morning to collect videos, information and samples from a small seamount in the southwest of the targeted area. Scientists planed to investigate four seamounts in this area, part of the Caroline Ridge in the western Pacific Ocean, and the largest one is the Caroline Seamount, which KEXUE explored in 2017, said Xu Kuidong, chief scientist aboard the vessel and a researcher of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). The other three seamounts have never been explored and their tops are all about 800 meters below the sea surface, Xu said. "We will focus on biological diversities, ecological systems and biological distributions of the four seamounts, trying to find out the differences and the driving factors," Xu said. KEXUE, which departed from Qingdao in east China on May 18, will take a 20-day investigation here and is scheduled to go back to Xiamen of China's Fujian Province on June 23. NASA-supported monitoring network assesses ozone layer threats On the heels of the first definitive signs of the ozone layer recovery last year, an international team of scientists discovered that production and emission of a banned, potent ozone-depleting chemical is on the rise again. A new research finding, published in Nature on May 23, locates the source region for about half of those new emissions. Since 2013, they found that an increase of about 7000 tons per year of trichlorofluromethane, or CFC-11, added to the atmosphere originates from eastern China. On the heels of the first definitive signs of the ozone layer recovery last year, an international team of scientists discovered that production and emission of a banned, potent ozone-depleting chemical is on the rise again. A new research finding, published in Nature on May 23, locates the source region for about half of those new emissions. Since 2013, they found that an increase of about 7000 tons per year of trichlorofluromethane, or CFC-11, added to the atmosphere originates from eastern China. The Gosan GAW Regional Station The Gosan GAW Regional Station (Global Atmosphere Watch, program of the World Meteorological Organization) is located on the south-western tip of Jeju Island (Republic of Korea), facing the East China Sea. The station rests at the top of a 72 m cliff, about 100 km south of the Korean peninsula, 500 km northeast of Shanghai, China, and 250 km west of Kyushu, Japan. Credits: AGAGE Locating and identifying this particular source of CFC-11 was possible in part because of a NASA-supported monitoring network for atmospheric gases that has been in place since 1978. CFC-11 was one of the first generation of ozone-depleting substances banned by the Montreal Protocol, an international agreement signed by 196 countries to protect the stratospheric ozone layer. The ozone layer protects life on Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. CFC-11 was completely phased out of production in 2010. Its reappearance in the atmosphere will likely delay the recovery of the ozone layer. The discovery of increased CFC-11 emissions was first made by researchers in 2018 with observational data from the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii, part of an ongoing activity at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)'s Global Monitoring Division. In the United States, NASA and NOAA are charged with monitoring threats to the ozone layer under the 1990 amendment to the Clean Air Act. From 2012 onward, they found that CFC-11 concentration levels were not decreasing as fast as expected. Using computer models and other analysis techniques that simulated wind patterns and the movements of gases throughout the world, they determined that the increase in emissions was most likely from eastern Asia. The increase in emissions also suggested new production. The question was, where exactly did it come from? The monitoring station in Hawaii was too far from other land masses to be able to narrow down the origin beyond eastern Asia. The ozone research community turned to the Advanced Global Atmospheric Gas Experiment (AGAGE), a network of 15 monitoring stations set up around the world to measure 40 atmospheric gases that contribute to greenhouse warming and ozone depletion. The network operations are led by the Center for Global Change Science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. NASA funds five of these stations and provides basic infrastructure that supports the entire network, partnering with multinational environmental agencies and with station host countries of Ireland, Norway, Switzerland, Australia, Japan, and Korea. The network has produced a 40-year continuous data record of frequent measurements of some of the most difficult-to-detect trace gases in the atmosphere. "The primary way we monitor changes in ozone is through satellite observations," said Ken Jucks program manager for NASA's Upper Atmosphere Research Program at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "But it's much harder to measure ozone-depleting substances by satellite. A few of the CFCs can be measured from space, but not to the level of accuracy you need to understand their changes over time." Scientists need to be able to detect concentrations and concentration changes of much less than one part per trillion of ozone-depleting gases. This can only be done effectively with instruments on the ground. To find out where these gases are coming from, the observations also need to be made relatively close to the source of the emissions. Two newer stations fit the bill for observing East Asian emissions: the South Korean Gosan AGAGE station, run by Kyungpook National University in South Korea, and the AGAGE-affiliated station on Hateruma island in Japan, run by Japan's National Institute of Environmental Studies. "What you see in those data sets are basically pollution events," Jucks said. Pollution events coming from a localized source get diluted and harder to detect and trace back the farther they travel away from their origin. "As we're getting these observations in more populated areas, we basically get a data point an hour, which is a big advantage for these types of measurements compared to whole air gas samples," Jucks said, because that gives the modeling teams sufficient data to back-trace the gases to their source. The data observations of CFC-11 combined with atmospheric modeling by researchers at the University of Bristol, the UK Met Office, the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology determined that the most likely source of the CFC-11 was new production from China. When the AGAGE network was originally set up, the emphasis was on understanding the background levels of greenhouse and ozone-depleting gases and how they were transported through the atmosphere. With older stations set up farther from sources, researchers were able to get a better sense of the global concentrations and lifetimes of these gases - and how high or low those levels have gotten through time. This context is essential for monitoring current and future changes to CFC levels. "Without the record that goes back all this time it would be really difficult to fully understand with the modeling experiments what the CFCs have been doing," Jucks said. "It gives us a tight constraint for the changes seen in the atmosphere over the last 40 years. Without that we wouldn't be able to tell whether concentrations are changing as we expect them to over time." ### To learn more about this study, visit: http://www. bristol. ac. uk/ news/ 2019/ may/ cfc-emissions. html Banner Photo: Map of AGAGE network https:/ / agage. mit. edu/ global-network Credit: AGAGE By: Ellen Gray NASA's Earth Science News Team Last Updated: May 24, 2019 Editor: Sara Blumberg Tags: Air, Earth, Goddard Space Flight Center Read Next Related Article National Aeronautics and Space Administration Page Last Updated: May 24, 2019 NASA Official: Brian Dunbar This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Eight life-size Terracotta Warriors from China are among the works shown in the National Gallery of Victoria, in a rare exhibition launched in Melbourne. The exhibition, "Terracotta Warriors: Guardians of Immortality | Cai Guo-Qiang: The Transient Landscape", runs from May 24 to October 13. Terracotta Warriors: Guardians of Immortality is shown at a preview event on May 23, 2019, in Melbourne, Australia. [Photo: China Plus] It offers a new perspective on Chinese traditional culture with more than 160 works, among which the Qin Emperor's Terracotta Warriors, discovered in 1974 in China's northwestern Shaanxi province, was widely described as the eighth wonder of the world. The exhibition features eight warrior figures and two life-size horses from the Imperial Army, as well as two half-size replica bronze chariots, each drawn by four horses. Terracotta Warriors: Guardians of Immortality is shown at a preview event on May 23, 2019, in Melbourne, Australia. [Photo: China Plus] Presented in parallel, the artworks by contemporary artist Cai Guoqiang give visitors a glimpse of Chinese art nowadays. Created especially for this exhibition, highlight works include the monumental installation of 10,000 suspended porcelain birds. Spiraling over visitors' heads, the birds create a three-dimensional impression of a calligraphic drawing of the sacred Mount Li, the site of the ancient tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shihuang, and his warriors. Cheng Jingye, Chinese Ambassador to Australia, said on the Preview Ceremony that the exhibition represents another highlight in this year's China-Australia cultural and arts exchange. "I know that the Terracotta Warriors are very familiar with their way to Australia," he said. "In 1982, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Australia, Australia was chosen as the destination for the first ever overseas tour of the Terracotta Warriors. At that time, the Terracotta Warriors traveled to six capital cities. In 2010, they were once again on display in the Art Gallery of New South Wales." Terracotta Warriors: Guardians of Immortality is shown at a preview event on May 23, 2019, in Melbourne, Australia. [Photo: China Plus] He noted that the Terracotta Warriors come from Xi'an, capital of Shaanxi Province, where the ancient Silk Road started more than 2,000 years ago. While the ancient Silk Road built up the bridge for exchanges between the East and the West, the Belt and Road Initiative was put forward in 2013 to achieve common development through a global partnership of connectivity. Last year, Australia's Victorian Government joined the Belt and Road Initiative. "I really look forward to the early outcomes of collaboration between China and Victoria in this regard," said the ambassador. "I strongly believe that the existing exchanges and cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, investment, education and culture between China and Victoria will make even greater progress in the future." Terracotta Warriors and artefacts are displayed at the exhibit on May 23, 2019, in the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia. [Photo provided by National Gallery of Victoria] ND Paper Receives $1.7 Million in Tax Credits for Biron Division Expansion in Wisconsin ND Paper's Biron mill, located in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, operates two paper machines that collectively have the capacity to produce about 340,000 tonnes per year of coated groundwood papers. The mill employs around 350 people. May 28, 2019 - The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) on May 22 announced an agreement to provide ND Paper with $1.7 million in tax credits over three years to support the company's expansion at its Biron division a project expected to create 27 new jobs. ND Paper, a U.S.-based subsidiary of Nine Dragons Paper, is planning several major projects, including the conversion of the B25 paper machine from white papers to containerboard products, construction of a two-line greenfield recycled pulp facility and the construction of a water treatment and fiber recovery plant. ND Paper's choice to invest here in Wisconsin shows the company's continued commitment to our state and their workforce, said Mark R. Hogan, secretary and CEO of WEDC, the state's lead economic development organization. These initiatives will require a significant capital investment on the part of the company and WEDC is proud to provide support to make this a viable project for ND Paper. We are extremely grateful for the support of WEDC and the State of Wisconsin, said Ken Liu, ND Paper's group deputy chairman and CEO. These strategic investments not only create 27 new positions, but also preserve the jobs of our existing workforce of well over 300 hardworking employees. Our vision is to transform the Biron division into a world-class facility that is sustainable for the next 100 years. The actual amount of state income tax credits the company receives is contingent upon the number of jobs created and retained, and the amount of capital investment the company makes through 2022. As is the case for all WEDC tax credits, ND Paper must first create the jobs and make the capital investment before receiving any credits. In addition to the 27 jobs expected to be created by ND Paper, an economic modeling study estimates the project could indirectly generate 31 additional jobs in the region. SOURCE: Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation The Madame Tussauds wax figure is a dubious honor. It's definitely a status symbol of sorts tourists won't pay money to pose with a creepy replica of just anybody. On the other hand, many of Tussauds' celebrity statues tend to be unflattering, inaccurate, or downright haunted looking. Sometimes, it's a fun combination of all three! Ariana Grande recently got this treatment courtesy of Tussauds' London location, which unveiled its brand new tribute to her on social media last week. The statue, not yet on public display, was costumed according to popular vote. Fans chose between three different looks: "Classic," "Sassy," or "Princess." The winner was "Classic," and Tussauds actually nailed Grande's signature boots n' sweater combo. Her face, though. Her face is a problem. Arianators are incensed, calling the lack of attention to detail "disrespectful." Even Grande herself appeared displeased, commenting "I just wanna talk" on an Instagram photo of the statue. To answer your next question, yes fans are absolutely Facetuning photos of the hideous Ari wax figure, refining her nose and making those brows a little less intense. This effort is quite something: Should Tussauds melt Ariana down and start again? Perhaps. But let's address the Beyonce issue first. Member of Parliament [MP] for Subin Constituency in the Ashanti Region, Eugene Boakye Antwi has advised that issues concerning the reforms in the banking sector under the ruling New Patriotic Party(NPP) government should not be politicized but addressed in the right direction. He stressed that one will not be fair to the government if they allege that the NPP intentionally collapsed and merged some nonperforming banks. Ministry of Finance and Bank of Ghana needs our help to restore a degree of credibility and integrity to our banking sector, than wanting to politicize issues of the banking sector, he said. Explaining on Peace FMs Kokrokoo programme, the NPP communicator referred to a newspaper report stating that currently, out of the 566 licensed MFIs in 2018, 211 are active but distressed or folded up, while out of the 141 RCBs, 37 were active but distressed or folded up, the BoG said in its MPC report. In total, the bank estimates that 272 out of the 707 institutions in the sub-sector, representing 38.5 per cent, are at risk. Hon. Boakye Antwi mentioned that this administration as I always say, is full of determined and serious minded Ghanaians, therefore we are here to right the wrongs caused. Source: Elizabeth Semiheva Bedi/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 GCB Bank Limited, Ghanas most welcoming Bank has introduced the EasyPick promotion to provide a convenient and affordable shopping experience to its salaried customers. The promotion is opened at selected GCB Bank branches across the country. Running from 20th to 31st May, 2019, the promotion will provide GCB Bank customers with the opportunity to buy home appliances, electronic gadgets, furniture, roofing sheets and other products from selected vendors at a discounted price. The Bank has also come to an agreement with the vendors for customers who qualify to pick up their item of choice as and when they want and pay for them over a one year period by installment. Speaking at the official opening of the promotion, Mrs. Thyra Obuobi, Head of Corporate Affairs at GCB, reiterated the Banks commitment to providing excellent service by meeting the needs of all customers. As a Bank, GCB is always looking for opportunities to provide customers with the best of banking services in a convenient way. The EasyPick promotion is one of the many ways which will meet the varied needs of our customers. The Bank is also grateful to all the vendors who partnered with us to run this promotion smoothly, she expressed. The promotion which involves over 18 vendors is available to GCB Bank customers throughout the year. 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 Counting some of Ghanas most prolific artistic talent among its past entrants, Barclays Bank Ghanas parent company, Absa Group, has announced the opening of entries for the Absa LAtelier art competition. Ultimately, three finalists will receive international artistic residencies at Frances Cite Internationale des Arts and in South Africa as part of their prize. Designed to identify and nurture the rich artistic talent across Africa, Absa LAtelier intends to give the next generation of African artists the grounding and skills needed to bring their possibilities to life and build sustainable careers in the arts. The competitions new look which is in-line with Absa Groups new visual identity is a taste of what is to come for Barclays Bank Ghana, which is on its own journey to change its name and look to the Absa brand. The competition is open to entrants from the 12 African countries in which the Absa Group operates: Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. Entries close on 31 May 2019 at 16:00 (CAT). All entries must be submitted through the Absa LAtelier online portal, available here: https://lateliercompetition. com Ghanas track record in the Absa LAtelier competition is strong, with Ghanaian artists appearing in the list of top 10 finalists for the past two years. Henry Obengs Recycle Frame 2, was part of the three Merit Awards winners and Sedinam Tsegah appeared in the top 10 list last year. Local satirical artist Bright Ackwerh and Priscilla Kennedy, were top 10 finalists in 2017, while Isaac Addico was also recognised in the 2016 Absa LAtelier exhibition. Ghana has an interesting painting tradition, although many artists work in other mediums too. We have a developing industry with great talents who demonstrate real potential. We sincerely hope that Absa LAtelier can play a role in fostering emerging Ghanaian artists and support the growth of the industry, said Nana Essilfuah Boison, Marketing & Corporate Relations Director of Barclays Bank Ghana. We believe in nurturing the incredible talent seen across the continent and in working to ensure that priceless skills and knowledge are harnessed between like-minded artists in a way that helps budding artists build prosperous long-term careers in the art world she further added. Entering its 34th year, Absa LAtelier has built a strong legacy as a platform that allows the dynamic, inspiring and young visual artists of our continent to shine. It has gained prominence as one of the few platforms for visual artists to gain exposure locally and internationally. 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 Li Zhanshu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), meets with Veroljub Arsic, deputy speaker of the National Assembly of Serbia, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, May 27, 2019. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- China's top legislator Li Zhanshu Monday met with Veroljub Arsic, deputy speaker of the National Assembly of Serbia, here Monday, calling for closer bilateral ties. Calling China and Serbia "sincere friends of each other," Li, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), said the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership has been lifted to a new high under the guidance of the two heads of state. Bilateral pragmatic cooperation has been at the forefront of the Belt and Road cooperation, Li added. He called on both countries to consolidate traditional friendship, continue to firmly support each other on core interests and issues of major concern, set examples of political mutual trust, common development and people-to-people exchanges so as to build a closer community with shared interests and a shared future. Li also called on the two legislatures to enhance cooperation in areas including legislation, supervision and governance in order to better implement the consensus of the two heads of state. Arsic said the National Assembly of Serbia stands ready to intensify exchanges with the NPC and give full play to the cooperation committee between the legislatures of Serbia and China, to make new contributions to boosting practical cooperation between the two countries and friendship between the two peoples. As has always been our national tradition, Ghana joins the rest of Africa in celebrating African Union Day on the 25th of May. Our Heads of State and Government have designated 2019 as The Year of Refugees, Returnees and Internally Displaced Persons. The theme reflects our shared determination to deal with the formidable challenges of migration facing the continent, including some of the tragic events we have witnessed recently. This occasion presents us with an opportunity to mobilize our efforts and resources to deal with migration. The AU has adopted a Migration Policy Framework and Plan of Action for the period 2018-2030. It is intended to assist Africa to better manage and benefit from planned migration by providing strategic guidelines to the Member States and Regional Economic Communities in the management of migration. The Policy calls on each country to formulate and implement its own national policies in accordance with its priorities and resources. Among the several key areas identified in the Policy are: -Migration Governance -Labour Migration and Education, -Diaspora Engagement -Border Governance; -Irregular Migration; -Forced Displacement; -Internal Migration; -Migration and Trade; This is apt because hostile conflicts, wars, natural disasters and economic difficulties have thrust upon the world, a seemingly intractable situation of insecurity, forced migration across perilous oceans and deserts as well as the internal displacement of persons. Lately, the jihadi activities in the Sahel region of Africa and North-Eastern Nigeria have seriously threatened the stability and security of the region with a considerable impact on human security. Africa continues to seek lasting solutions to resolve this phenomenon, which has wreaked havoc on its fragile economies and peoples. The phenomenal rise and mainstreaming of extreme and ultra-right nationalist political groups in Europe and elsewhere have exacerbated the socio-political difficulties which hamper the smooth integration of Africans into the recipient countries. With over Seven Hundred (700) Refugee Camps worldwide and twice the number of inmates in these camps, the sheer volume of refugees and displaced persons overstretch the resources of the international community to deal with the matter. A sustainable model to prevent the outbreak of conflicts, insecurity and socio-economic difficulties that compel people to migrate, seem to be the best option available to deal with this phenomenon. We need to strengthen systems that would guarantee inclusive government, deal with political crisis at the teething level and ensure socio-economic prosperity of the continent. We also have to pay particular attention to youth unemployment to channel the energies and innovation of African youth into productive ventures through enhanced integration of economic interactions on the continent. This year, Ghana has lined up activities to mark 400 years the first enslaved Africans who arrived in Jamestown, Virginia as a way of ensuring productive interaction between Africa and peoples of African descent. The African Unions Peer Review Mechanism could be enhanced to deal with impunity, and the excesses of the power by the political class as well as effective economic governance. On this auspicious occasion, I wish all sons and daughters of Africa, Happy Africa Day 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 President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, will grant Ghanaian citizenship to more than 200 members of the African-American-Caribbean Diaspora community residing in the country. The conferment of citizenship will take place next month. The Director of Diasporan Affairs at the Office of the President, Mr Akwesi Awua-Ababio, who is also the Chairman of the Year of Return Steering Committee, made this known in an interview with the Daily Graphic when the leadership of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) paid a courtesy call on the Managing Director of the Graphic Communications Group Limited (GCGL), Mr Ato Afful, and other management members of the company. A similar conferment took place in 2016 when 34 Diasporans were given Ghanaian citizenship under the then President John Dramani Mahama. Mr Awua-Ababio explained that it was the prerogative of the President to confer citizenship on persons who were not citizens by birth, as enshrined in the Constitution. According to him, the decision to grant citizenship to the African-American-Caribbean community formed part of the celebration of the Year of Return. He said the celebration was very dear to the President because it had the potential to place Ghana high on the international map. The meeting was to dialogue and deliberate on how to strengthen the partnership between the two bodies to promote the Year of Return and sensitise Ghanaians to the celebration. President Nana Akufo-Addo, in September 2018, declared 2019 The Year of Return, a celebration of African resilience and to commemorate 400 years since the first Black slave reached the shores of the new world, United States of America. The celebration is also to reach out to the descendants of those Africans who were forcibly removed from their homeland and taken into slavery. Low publicity At the meeting, the Chief Executive Officer of the GTA, Mr Akwasi Agyeman, indicated that the celebration had been well publicised on the international front, attracting a number of Diasporans. However, he said, the same could not be said about the publicity of the celebration in the country, as there had been little publicity to educate the local populace to be abreast of the celebration. While the celebration would attract more foreigners into the country, he said, more publicity on it would convince the business community to align itself with the activities planned for the celebration. Mr Agyeman further indicated that as part of the celebration a number of activities, including PANAFEST, had been outlined to take place from next month until the end of the year to climax the celebration. To promote the activities and position Ghana well on the international front, he said, the GTA needed to collaborate with the media to broadcast the event to the public. He, therefore, called on the GCGL to support the GTA to make the celebration of the Year of Return a success, as well as promote the tourism industry in general. While expressing gratitude to the GCGL for its immense support to the tourism industry, Mr Agyeman said more needed to be done to enhance the countrys tourism sector. We are ready to support Mr Ato Afful, for his part, said tourism was very critical to the economic development of the country, considering the revenue it would generate when given the needed attention. He expressed the GCGLs readiness and commitment to support the celebration to make it a success but urged the management of GTA to leave their doors open to allow free flow of information for publication. Give us the needed information when we come knocking at your door, so that we can work together to drive the audience, he said. The Director of News at the GCGL, Mrs Mavis Kitcher, said the role of the company was to support the developmental agenda of the government and so such programmes fell within that mandate. She also underscored the need for information to be forthcoming to ensure that the objective of the cooperation was achieved. Look at hotel prices Mrs Kitcher, however, expressed concern about the high prices of hotels in the country, especially the four and five-Star hotels, saying: You are asking people to visit the country but the prices of these hotels are very expensive and need to be looked at. The Director of Marketing of the GCGL, Mr Franklin Sowa, recalled how the company was already working to promote tourism in the country. He said its platforms had the potential to draw the audiences needed to participate in the various activities, saying both Graphic Showbiz and The Mirror were already promoting the sector in their publications. He said domestic tourism had a lot of potential that could be promoted to generate high returns for the government and added that the GCGL was using its Junior Graphic platform to introduce vacation tours for students to visit the various tourist sites. Reacting to the high hotel prices, Mr Agyeman said the management of the various hotels were paying about 22 different taxes at a go, hence the high prices. However, he said, the authority was working with Parliament to see how to reduce the tax incidence on hotels to drive down prices. Source: Daily Graphic Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Rivers around the world are contaminated with dangerous levels of antibiotics, according to a major new study. The study, led by researches from the University of York in the UK, found that concentrations of antibiotics in some waterways exceed safe levels by 300 times. The researchers found that Ghana, Bangladesh, Kenya, Nigeria and Pastikan were home to the most contaminated rivers. The researchers, who looked at 14 commonly used antibiotics in rivers flowing through 72 countries, found that the safe limits were most frequently exceeded in Asia and Africa. However, sites in Europe, North America and South America also had high levels of contamination showing that antibiotic contamination was a global problem". Scientists fear antibiotics in rivers cause bacteria to develop resistance meaning they can no longer be used in medicines for humans. The UN estimates that the rise in antibiotic resistance could kill 10 million people by 2050. A lot of the resistance genes we see in human pathogens originated from environmental bacteria, Professor William Gaze, a microbial ecologist at the University of Exeter who was not involved in the study, told The Guardian. Drugs get into rivers via human and animal waste, as well as leaks from wastewater treatment and drug manufacturing sources. In one site in Bangladesh, levels of metronidazole which is used to treat mouth and skin infections were 300 times greater than what is considered safe. The most common antibiotic was a urinary tract infection antibiotic called trimethoprim, which was present in 307 of 711 sites tested. Professor Alistair Boxall, from the York Environmental Sustainability Institute, said: The results are quite eye opening and worrying, demonstrating the widespread contamination of river systems around the world with antibiotic compounds. Many scientists and policy makers now recognise the role of the natural environment in the antimicrobial resistance problem. Our data show that antibiotic contamination of rivers could be an important contributor. Solving the problem is going to be a mammoth challenge and will need investment in infrastructure for waste and wastewater treatment, tighter regulation and the cleaning up of already contaminated sites. Professor John Wilkinson, from the University of York, said: Until now, the majority of environmental monitoring work for antibiotics has been done in Europe, North America and China. Often on only a handful of antibiotics. We know very little about the scale of problem globally. Our study helps fill this key knowledge gap with data being generated for countries that had never been monitored before. The findings will be unveiled at the annual meeting of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry in Helsinki on 27 and 28 May. Source: Daily Graphic Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Nkawie Senior High/Technical School in the Ashanti region on Monday, May 27, 2019 hosted an entourage from the National Union of Ghana Students' (NUGS) and the University Students' Association of Ghana (USAG). The joint delegation from NUGS and USAG visited the school to observe the state of the school and also to learn about the challenges and perspective of students taking the ongoing West African Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The delegation met the headmaster, teachers and students of Nkawie SHS and discussed general academic work. NUGS was particularly interested in discussing the challenges of the school and how it could resolve them. The headmaster, students and teachers expressed their satisfaction with the systems in place in their school. However, it emerged the school had inadequate computers for academic work. The students and teachers agreed this has caused a major deficiency in their progress in ICT education. Another major challenge is the infrastructural deficit in the school. The headmaster in an empassioned manner stated that the school currently has an unfinished 21 unit classroom block which needs immediate completion. The boys dormitory in the school is also in a deplorable state leading to great discomfort among the students. Thus, NUGS calls on Government, old students and well wishers to come to their aid in renovating the facility. Final year students sitting the WASSCE, were optimistic in their outlook and expressed satisfaction with progress made so far. The NUGS President, *Mr. Tinkaro Asare Osei* and USAG President, *Mr. Kingsley Akowuah Sarpong* who are alumni of the school took the platform to encourage the students to carry on earnestly in their studies and called on the teachers to re-invest themselves in the task of educating the students and to be positive role models. Students were advised to be thorough in studies as well as exhibiting good morals. They were admonished on the need to be good, hardworking and positive students and not to compromise their morals under any circumstance. NUGS pledged to advocate for the expedited resolution to their infrastructural challenge and uses this medium to call on all relevant stakeholders, particularly the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service, to resolve this challenge in all haste. NUGS is committed to advocating and safeguarding the interests of Ghanaian students. Thank you. Signed Kobby Otchere Marfo Press and Information Secretary [email protected] Tinkaro Asare Osei President Source: NUGS 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 Assistant Director of the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA), Mr Richard Agbenu has advised the general public to avoid eating rotten tomatoes to prevent health complications. According to him, some of the fungi on tomatoes (whitish growth found on tomatoes) can be very poisonous to the human system when consumed. In an interview with Graphic Online, Mr Agbenu together with an officer of the Plant and Regulatory Services of MOFA, Mr Raymond Etu lamented the total disregard the public pays rotten tomatoes, even when the signs should be clear that all is not well with it. The two said it was dangerous to take in the whitish fungi, and cautioned the public further to avoid any vegetable that does not appeal to the eye. Due to ignorance, many use these tomatoes for their day-to-day meals. Others also use it due to lack of money, since those ones are softer than the usual ones and sold cheaper.. They go for it without thinking of the health implications he said. The Deputy Director of the Plant and Regulatory Directorate, Mr Attepoe Prudence cautioned farmers not to misuse chemicals on their crops in the name of preserving it. According to him, many farmers do not seek counsel from experts on how to manage chemicals in preserving their crops. He said some overuse the chemicals to make the crops grow faster and also to preserve the crops for longer periods to make enough sales during the shortage of such crops. He added that the abuse of such chemicals can cause harm to the human body. He further cautioned farmers to show concern as citizens of Ghana in prolonging the life of each other, and not to kill in the name of money. He noted that some farmers intentionally overuse the chemicals though they know the consequences. I once saw a farmer going to sell okro in the market right after spraying it with chemicals . I asked him if he would use the okro himself, he said no. According to the farmer, he urgently needs money that is why he did what he did, even though he knew the health implications on the general public. Mr Attepoe further pleaded with all farmers to seek counsel from the Plant Regulatory officers or any expert in the field of farming to help save lives. He noted that petty diseases in the country can be attributed to the things we consume. I am begging all farmers to seek counsel on these chemicals before using them and also avoid overusing the chemicals in the name of making moneythe lives of citizens are more expensive than money, he cautioned. Source: Daily Graphic Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Chief Executive Officer of the National Identification Authority (NIA) has bemoaned various irregularities that have marred the Ghana card registration exercise in some parts of the Greater Accra Region. Some Ghanaians who took part in the registration complained of long queues, fraud, and other irregularities. A few people were even arrested for registering non-Ghanaians. Speaking to this in a one-on-one interview with Kwami Sefa Kayi, Tuesday, Prof Ken Attafuah expressed sadness over the issue and urged Ghanaians to help NIA in dealing with officials who would want to tarnish the image of the authority. "These personnel were trained on patriotism, nationalism; the last thing I wanted to see was the indignity of Ghanaians suffering in long queuesits very sad," he stated. He recounted how he met an official who said the no-forms excuse was to reduce the number of people in the queue. I was very upset . . . why was she misleading Ghanaians and bringing the name of the authority in disrepute? . . . then people will be criticizing us saying we cannot organize a simple exercise, but thats not the case, he lamented. Watch in the video below Source: Rebecca Addo Tetteh/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 Executive Secretary of the National Identification Authority (NIA), Prof Ken Attafuah has urged Ghanaians to report to the police station anytime they lose their Ghana card. "If you lose your card, report to the police, indicate how it got missing and then you will be given a police extract which will then be taken to the NIA. They (NIA) will then conduct an investigation and after being satisfied, they will go ahead to issue a new card for you . . ." he indicated. Prof Attafuah who was speaking in a one-on-one interview with Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FM's 'kokrokoo' programme added that even though the registration of the Ghana card is free, Ghanaians will have to pay when it is being replaced or renewed. "Renewal and replacements attract fees," he said. Watch his submissioms below 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 Member of the National Democratic Congress [NDC] communication team, Fred Agbenyo has stated that reporting to the Assembly man of every area when one misplaces his Ghana Card will be an effective way of getting a new one than reporting to the police station. He is of the view that reporting misplaced cards to the police station will not yield results, because already there is pressure at our various police stations. He added that most Ghanaians do not even like the idea of going to the police station, not to talk of reporting a misplaced card. . . I believe reporting misplaced Ghana Cards to Assembly men in our communities will make it easier in getting a new one that reporting it to the police station which is already piled up with duties, he said on Peace FMs Kokrokoo panel discussion segment. Executive Secretary of the National Identification Authority (NIA), Prof Ken Attafuah, on Tuesday, in an interview with Kwami Sefa Kayi, urged Ghanaians to report to the police station anytime they lose their Ghana card. "If you lose your card, report to the police, indicate how it got missing and then you will be given a police extract which will then be taken to the NIA. They (NIA) will then conduct an investigation and after being satisfied, they will go ahead to issue a new card for you at a fee . . ." he indicated. But the NDC Communicator seems not in agreement with that proposition. To him, most of the country's "remote communities do not even have easy access to police stations as they are far away from where they reside". Source: Elizabeth Semiheva Bedi/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 church building for the Victory Congregation of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana at Dunkwa in the Asante South Presbytery has been dedicated to the glory of God at the cost of about Six Hundred and Fifty Thousand Ghana Cedis. The building was solely funded by a member of the congregation, Mr. Victor Gadri a businessman and his family. Dedicating the building at a Church Service on Sunday at Dunkwa which was attended by a number of personalities, ministers of the Gospel and worshippers from the Dunkwa District of the Church, the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana the Rt. Rev Prof Joseph Obiri Yeboah Mante stressed the need for church members to be properly accommodated in a serene atmosphere. He said the Church would continue to encourage the local congregations to put up similar structures to enable church members to have concentrated minds to serve God well. Rev Mante commended Mr Gadri and his family for allowing himself to be used by God to put up the building. The Moderator also encouraged church members to continue with their giving spirit for the church to undertake more projects of this nature. The Moderator cautioned the congregation to adopt the culture of maintenance to maintain the structure. He said, failure to have regular maintenance would derail all the toil and sweat of the donor. Rev Amissah urged members of the church to be united at all times since that was the only way the church could grow in numbers and infrastructure. The Moderator was grateful to the traditional authority for releasing the land for the building and also their contributions to the church over the years. Preaching the sermon, the Chairperson of the Asante South Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rev Emmanuel Asare Amoah urged Christians to have faith in God so that they could please him. He encouraged Christians to stop moving from one prayer camp to another but to seek the face of God at all times because he answered prayers of people who had strong faith in him. Rev Amoah said the church had been given the power to transform society for the better which could only be accomplished if Christians followed the footsteps of Christ. Mr Gadri in an interview said the Lord touched his heart and decided to provide a place of worship for the Church members in order to worship God well. Source: George Larbi, PRO Presby Church 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 Member of Parliament for North Tongu constituency, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has accused the ruling NPP of gradually reducing the ideologies of Ghanas first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. His comment comes after Ghana failed to commemorate this years AU day which fell on May 25. Parliament recently passed the bill which was seeking to scrap AU and Republic Days as public holidays and introduce January 7 as Constitution Day. Speaking on NEAT FMs morning show Ghana Montie, Mr. Ablakwa believes the move forms part of President Nana Akufo-Addos plan to diminish Ghanas first President Kwame Nkrumah. He however vowed that the National Democratic Congress [NDC] will restore the commemoration of AU Day as a statutory holiday when it comes to power. Listen to interview Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/Peacefmonline.com/ Twitter: @Washman5/ Instagram: Washman007 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 BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- China on Monday voiced its firm opposition to official contact between the United States and Taiwan "in any form" and "under any excuse." "China is strongly dissatisfied with and resolutely opposed to it," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said at a news briefing. According to reports, Taiwan claimed that U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton has recently held talks with his Taiwan "counterpart." In response, Lu said the U.S. government has clearly recognized the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and promised it will only maintain unofficial contacts with Taiwan. So Bolton and David Lee can't be "counterparts," he noted. The one-China principle constitutes the political foundation of Sino-U.S. relations, Lu said. "We are also firmly opposed to any attempt to create 'two Chinas' or 'one China, one Taiwan.' Our position is clear and steadfast." "We once again urge the U.S. side to adhere to the one-China principle and the three joint communiques between the two countries, stop official contact or substantively upgrading relations with Taiwan, prudently and properly handle Taiwan-related issues to avoid negative influence on Sino-U.S. relations and the two countries' cooperation in major areas," he said. The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been urged to help the National Identification Authority (NIA) make the Ghana Card registration exercise a success. The member of Parliament for Nsawam Adoagyiri constituency said since the NDC made a U-turn in their decision not to take part in the exercise, they have a moral responsibility to help make it successful. If you may recall, the NDC had urged its members to stay away from the Ghana card registration until the NIA includes the Voter's ID card as one of the requirements. However, they later changed their mind and encouraged its members to register. Frank Annor Dompreh who was speaking on Peace FM's Kokrokoo program, Monday commended the opposition party for their change of mind. Watch his submission below 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 Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Boamah Otokunor, has posited that the creation of new regions, especially the Western North Region, will not necessarily translate into votes for the Akufo-Addo government in 2020 elections. Speaking on Okay FMs "Ade Akye Abia" Morning Show, Otukunor insisted the Akufo-Addo government will be shooting itself in the foot to assume that by creating the Western North region, people in the area will automatically vote for the NPP in 2020 elections. They should delude themselves in thinking that by dividing the Western Region to have Western North, automatically the people over there will vote for them; they are deceiving themselves. Lets check for the development that the NPP administration has given to the people of Western North within 2 years in office; there is nothing to show for in Western North. In fact, the road network that under the Mahama-led NDC was being carried out at No. 81 to Bodi, the NPP has asked that work should be halted on the project and the contractors have been idle for close to 3 years now, he asserted. ...for almost 3 years nothing is done and so do you think these people will vote the NPP government? There are a lot of road network in Western North left hanging. In fact, the problem is with the Bia road which contractors were working but unfortunately, the NPP administration came to stop them and it has left the road in a deplorable state, he disclosed. Background In the run up to the 2016 general elections, then candidate Nana Akufo-Addo pledged to facilitate the creation of four regions from the Western, Northern, Brong Ahafo and Northern regions on the back of proposals from the chiefs and people in the area. On assumption of office he established the Ministry of Regional Reorganisation and Development primarily to spearhead the creation of the new regions which according to the government was at the heart of the people in the areas. Since June 2017, the government has through the Ministry championed all the constitutional processes required in the creation of the regions including the December 27, 2018 referendum which allowed the people to overwhelmingly endorse the creation of six new regions. With at least 80 per cent vote, the people of voted for Ahafo, Bono East, Savannah, North East, Western North and Oti to be created out of Brong Ahafo, Northern Region, Western Region and Volta Region. In line with Article 5(8) of the 1992 Constitution, President Akufo-Addo, in February 2019, held the first of a series of ceremonies at the Jubilee House in Accra to issue a constitutional instrument to give effect to the new regions. But while some believe it was a good course and might enure to the benefit of the ruling party in next year's general elections, others maintain that the creation of new regions is not something the president should be celebrating given the urgent bread and butter issues, as well as basic challenges of development that confronts the people of Ghana. Unprecedented Mahama Infrastructure Advancing reasons why the people of Western North will vote for the NDC to regain power in 2020, Peter Otokunor said it will be so because of the unprecedented works undertaken by the Mahama administration in the area. Just check out the road network at Juaboso to Bodi...the road network at Bibiani to Bekwai and from Bekwai to Wiawso and Juaboso is first class ultra-modern road. Quality road can be seen from Wiawso to Juaboso road; Bodi town roads are asphalted and so the road network at Western North is unprecedented, he stated. The NDC Deputy Chief Scribe was also optimistic that the NDC will reclaim the three constituencies within the area that it lost to the NPP in the 2016 election, because of the caliber of leaders they have elected in the new region. If we check our manifesto, we also wanted to create a new region in that area and so the fact that the NPP has hurriedly created a new region for them does not mean that the people over there will vote for the NPP....as for that one, anybody can do it, even a class 1 pupil who is made a president can create new regions, he asserted. Source: Daniel Adu Darko/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 Black Stars striker, Jordan Ayew, and his wife, Denise Acquah, stepped out in style as they attended a family wedding. The wedding ceremony, which was between Gabrielle and Kojo, happened on Saturday, May 25, 2019. Denise is the sister of the bride. Jordan and Denise were seen sharply dressed and seated at the wedding. While Jordan was dressed in an ash-coloured caftan-like top over trousers, Denise wore a full green dress. Jordan and Denise sources say have been together as a married couple for about eight years now. VIDEO- Source: yen.com.gh 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 FILE - In this Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018, file photo, then-Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis speaks with reporters before welcoming Lithuanian Minister of National Defense Raimundas Karoblis to the Pentagon in Washington. Former Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis has a book coming, but he warns it will not be a tell-all about President Donald Trump. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen, File) We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form TOKYO, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A total of 15 people had been injured, some critically, after a man went on a stabbing rampage in a park close to Japan's capital Tokyo on Tuesday morning. Japan's public broadcaster NHK, quoting local fire department and police officials, reported that of the 15 people who were stabbed in the park in Kawasaki City, the majority of them were children of elementary school age. According to local police, eight elementary school children and seven adults are receiving treatment for stab wounds. The police said that two adults and one child are without vital signs as a result of the attack. The suspect in the stabbing rampage has been taken into custody, with police saying that the attacker himself has sustained serious injuries to his shoulder. According to the latest reports, the suspect himself is unconscious. Police have retrieved two knives from the scene of the attack. On May 23, just before the national Memorial Day holiday, Henry Ford College officially opened its new Veterans Center in Room 111 of the Student Activities Area of the Student and Culinary Arts Center, building M on the main campus. This center is a casual place for student veterans, currently military members, and their dependents to come in and connect with each other thats our main goal. We have tried to do many events where student veterans can meet each other, and it doesnt always work out with their schedules. With this new center, they can come in when its convenient for them on their own terms. They have a connection to their fellow veterans that the rest of us dont have, said HFC Veterans Coordinator Gail Bock. Approximately 30 people several of whom are veterans from the community, eight of whom are veterans attending HFC were present for the dedication. The center was inaugurated with a ribbon cutting, balloons, and a beautiful cake with red, white, and blue frosting. HFCs campus radio station, WHFR FM, played patriotic music during the dedication. A place for veterans Henry Ford College has long been a college that welcomes veterans and active-duty military personnel. The College has earned distinctions as a veteran-friendly employer and gold-level veteran-friendly school. Many of our faculty and staff have been actively engaged in service to veterans on campus. Last year, all HFC employees were invited to participate in an interactive training exercise to improve their understanding of, and service toward, our student veterans. The Student Veterans Association is active on campus and helps students in numerous ways. This is a great place for veterans. We couldnt meet other veterans without having a place like this to call home, said Sgt. First Class (SFC) (retired) Mark Allen, who served in the U.S. Army for 22 years. The Veterans Center is small yet comfortable room to relax, giving veterans the chance to speak to other veterans. The room contains photo boards and various free resources, as well as flags of all service branches and the American flag also called Old Glory. Without Ms. Bocks help, it would be impossible to navigate collegiate life, said Allen. As veterans, were counting on other veterans to navigate a civilian world and the world of education. Allen who has an associate degree in general business from HFC and is currently working on another associate degree in education was one of several speakers. Kavalhuna, Petchlikoff, McDonald, Herbst, and Bock also spoke, as did fellow veteran Ed Stokes. Transitioning to civilian life SFC (retired) Stokes served 32 years in the Army and was in Operation: Desert Storm. His wife of 33 years, Joanne Perry-Stokes, was also present at the ceremony. I saw representatives of all branches of the military talking to each other before the ceremony. That was impressive, said Perry-Stokes. This is a nice spot. Its a place for us to decompress from the classroom and connect with other veterans who can understand the transition from military to civilian life, said Stokes, who is pursuing an associate degree in supply chain management (SCM) with a projected graduation date of 2020. The G.I. Bill is not only paying for Stokes education at HFC, its also paying for his wifes education. Perry-Stokes is currently working on her doctorate in education at the University of Phoenix. His military service is paying for both of our schooling. Im working on a Ph.D. Hes his familys hero, said Perry-Stokes, making her husband blush. The College now has a dedicated space for these heroes to call home while theyre on campus. For more information about Veterans Services at Henry Ford College, please contact Gail Bock, 313-845-9688 or veterans@hfcc.edu. 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 JERUSALEM, May 27 (Xinhua) -- A total of 18 cooperation agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed between China's southwestern province of Sichuan and Israel in the Israeli central city of Tel Aviv on Monday. Delegates from the Sichuan provincial government, research and education institutions and companies signed these agreements and MoUs with Israeli partners at the China (Sichuan)-Israel Science, Technology and Trade Conference. The value of the agreements signed in the sectors of economy, trade, and investment surpassed 350 million U.S. dollars. Practical cooperation between the two sides has been conducted in sectors of science, technology, economy, trade, education and culture with fruitful achievements in recent years, said Peng Qinghua, secretary of the Sichuan Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China. Peng believed there is a great potential for both sides to further deepen innovation cooperation in the future. Sichuan is Israel's important cooperative partner, said Amiram Appelbaum, chief scientist of Israeli Ministry of Economy and Industry and chairman of Israel Innovation Authority. Both sides have great potentials to conduct innovation cooperation in sectors of modern agriculture, electronic information, medical health and clean energy, Appelbaum added. The conference provided a good chance for Israel to further learn Sichuan and the cooperation opportunities, Chinese Ambassador to Israel Zhan Yongxin said. Sichuan is strong in economy and rich in technological innovation resources and both sides have huge cooperation potentials, Zhan added. The conference was jointly hosted by the Sichuan provincial government, the Chinese Embassy in Israel, Israeli Ministry of Economy and Industry and Israel Innovation Authority. About 300 delegates from China and Israel attended the conference. | Welcome Guest! You Are Here: Will ensure our standards are met before Foxconn's TN facility reopens; continue to monitor conditions closely: Apple spokesperson. Hold our suppliers accountable to highest industry standards, Foxconn's Sriperumbudur facility placed on probation: Apple spokesperson. Three defendants in Interior Ministry sanatoria embezzlement case to go on trial RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov 12:19 28/05/2019 MOSCOW, May 28 (RAPSI) Moscows Tushinsky District Court will hear a criminal case against two former police officers and a contractor CEO, who are charged with embezzlement of more than 67 million rubles ($1 million) allocated for the reconstruction of the Interior Ministrys sanatoria, the press service of the Russian Prosecutor Generals Office reports Tuesday. Investigators claim that the defendants in conspiracy stole the budget money allocated for the reconstruction of two sanatoria in Sochi. According to case papers, in 2010, a chief of the Interior Ministrys project manager developer center signed public sanatorium contracting construction agreements with a CEO of the Construction Department of the Russian Interior Ministry, who involved MarioTech company in the performance of works in accordance with a subcontract. Later, the defendants and their accomplices overestimated the working costs by more than 64 million rubles and failed to fulfil their obligations worth 3 million rubles. They stole the money using the accounts of sham companies, the statement reads. Representatives of China and Pakistan attend the First Meeting of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor Political Parties Joint Consultation Mechanism held in Beijing in March to discuss cooperation and implementation in Pakistan of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative. Photo: Li Hao/GT China-Pakistan cooperation in the next phase will focus more on benefiting people through local projects that improve livelihood along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Chinese experts said on Monday as Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan was visiting Pakistan and the two countries boosted their cooperation on multiple projects. Wang arrived in Islamabad on Sunday for his three-day visit until Tuesday, the Xinhua News Agency reported. Zhao Lijian, a senior diplomat at the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan, tweeted on Monday that the two countries signed five memorandums of understanding including 1 billion yuan ($145 million) for the social sector and 40 million yuan for disaster relief. Lin Minwang, a professor at Fudan University's Center for South Asian Studies, told the Global Times that "the new [Pakistani] government hopes construction of the CPEC brings more benefits to the locals, so Wang's visit and the documents signed by the two countries show that China is giving a positive response and taking concrete steps to support its partner." Wang and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday launched four mega development projects in the fields of energy, technology and education under the CPEC, according to the website of the corridor project. The first project is a 660-kilovolt transmission line to be laid between Matiari and Lahore and transmit power from coal plants located at Thar, Port Qasim and Hub. The project will have the capacity to supply 2,000 megawatts with a 10 percent overload capability for two hours, the report said. The second one is the Rashakai Special Economic Zone project to promote industrialization through optimally priced, world-class industrial infrastructure in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The project is designed and set to become "the key trade and logistics hub connecting Kashgar, Kabul and Gwadar on the Belt and Road, and be a high-end host of international commercial, technological and manufacturing hub," Urdu Piont reported. These projects could bring jobs and boost economic income for the ordinary people as well as living standards as more stable electric power is provided, Lin said. "Khan's government wants to make Pakistani people really feel the change and benefits brought from the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative and the CPEC," he said. Rana Ali Qaisar, general secretary of the international department of the National Party of Pakistan, told the Global Times Monday that "the visit by Vice President Wang shows that China has never changed its support for its iron brother. The relationship and cooperation between the countries will not be affected by a political power transition within our country." Wang said on Monday that "I am confident the CPEC will add new impetus to development in Pakistan besides furthering regional development. I am happy to know that supporting CPEC is a consensus among all parties and ethnic groups across Pakistan," Pakistan Today reported. Education, technology The Confucius Institute at the University of Punjab was also launched at the ceremony. The institute mainly provides education of Chinese language, cultural promotion and cultural exchanges and other projects and activities. With the development of the CPEC, the demand for Chinese speakers in Pakistan will be increased and it is important for China to build more such institutes in Pakistan, Lin noted. Qaisar said that boosting educational cooperation between the two countries is always a hot topic proposed by Pakistani delegations who visited China and "Vice President Wang's ongoing visit has brought great progress in this aspect." The ceremony attended by Wang and Khan also marked the launch of the Huawei Technical Support Center to be established in Pakistan as part of Chinese tech giant's commitment to make a massive investment in Pakistan. The activities of Chinese firms in Pakistan will increase for sure and the use of Huawei equipment in Pakistan will also be increased, Lin noted. Establishing a technical support center shows that the two sides want to reinforce technological support for CPEC construction, he said. North indigenous peoples may transfer deer stalking quotas to community hunters court RAPSI, Mikhail Telekhov 13:11 28/05/2019 ST. PETERSBURG, May 28 (RAPSI, Mikhail Telekhov) - The Russian Constitutional Court held on Tuesday that indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North may transfer their deer stalking quotas to hunters from their communities, RAPSI reports from the courtroom. The court considered a complaint by ethnic dolgan Gennady Shchukin, who had challenged ban on the quotas transfer by disabled representatives of indigenous minorities of the North to their clan members. In his complaint, he asked the Constitutional Court to check certain provisions of the federal law on hunting and preservation of hunting resources. Shchukin is a clan chairman and president of the local Public association of indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North in the Krasnoyarsk Krais Taymyr Dolgano-Nenets district. In September 2014, he offered clan chairs to shoot wild reindeers entrusting huntsmen with deerhunting in the amount meant for all members of the community taking into consideration that the quota is 8 deers per person. According to case papers, hunters killed 217 species, and devolution of the hunting common limits stirred up law enforcement discontent. The applicant and other shooting participants were found guilty of illegal hunting committed by an organized group in conspiracy and were fined. Shchukin received a 120,000-ruble fine (about $2,000). However, all of them were released from punishment due to an amnesty. Shchukin turned to the Constitutional Court. He claimed that current legislation strips those dolgans, who do not have a hunting permit or ability to hunt by themselves for health reasons, as well as children and elderly persons of the right to deer stalking quotas. The Constitutional Court therefore held that Russias Indigenous Minorities have a right to the priority use of wildlife resources on the territory which is their traditional place of inhabitance and economic activity. According to the Russian Indigenous Peoples Rights Law, exclusive rights to use fauna are granted to all representatives of indigenous minorities but not only to those who have the status of hunter, the court stated. Thus, the Constitutional Court noted that communities may delegate hunting to one or several members having the hunter status within the set limit. According to the applicants lawyer Vladimir Tsvil, the effective sentence against Shchukin is to be reconsidered. Defendant in Argentina-Russia drug smuggling case to stay detained till September RIA Novosti, Denis Grishkin 17:12 28/05/2019 MOSCOW, May 28 (RAPSI) The Moscow City Court on Tuesday extended detention of Andrey Kovalchuk involved in a criminal case over cocaine smuggling from Argentina to Russia until September 1, RAPSI reports from the courtroom. Kovalchuk was arrested in Germany on March 1. Later, he was extradited to Russia. All the defendants, Kovalchuk, Vladimir Kalmykov, Ali Abyanov and Ishtimir Khudzhamov are charged with drug trafficking and illegal production, sale or transportation of drugs. According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, law enforcement authorities of Russia and Argentina have collaboratively suppressed delivery of a large consignment of drugs (cocaine) from Argentina to Europe. The drugs ready for delivery were found in one of the Russian embassy buildings in Buenos Aires in 2016. Cocaine allegedly belonged to an embassy technical staff member, whose duty journey was over by that time. During the conducted operation, Russian and Argentinean citizens were arrested, the ministry stated earlier. Exhumation to be conducted in controversial case against Russian hematologist TASS, Sergey Savostyanov 18:08 28/05/2019 MOSCOW, May 28 (RAPSI) The Moscow City Court on Tuesday upheld a lower courts order for disinterment in a controversial case against well-known hematologist Elena Misyurina over the death of a patient, RAPSI reported from the courtroom. The exhumation motion lodged by investigators was motivated by the experts impossibility to carry out an examination without disinterment. However, both parties, the defendant and victims in the case, objected to the exhumation 6 years on after the victims funeral. According to case papers, in 2013, Misyrina conducted a diagnostic procedure, bone marrow trephine biopsy, for a patient, who died soon afterwards. A court found the doctor guilty of violating safety regulations that led to the patients death and sentenced her to 2 years behind bars in January 2018. Misyrina denied wrongdoing and her defense insisted that the procedure was not related to the tragedy. Misyrinas case caught public attention with many medical professionals expressing support for the defendant and saying that the procedure could not cause the patients death. Thus, as the Russian Presidents Council for Human Rights stated, over 600 doctors asked the body to intervene in this case. Following that, Misyurina was released from detention under travel restrictions. In April 2018, the Moscow City Court overturned the sentence because of violations committed during the investigation and returned the case to prosecutors. Russian Justice Ministry to draft online dispute settlement mechanism bill RIA Novosti 10:45 28/05/2019 MOSCOW, May 28 (RAPSI) Russias Justice Ministry is developing a bill envisaging establishment of online mechanism for the settlement of disputes, according to the ministrys statement. Amendments would be proposed to the consumer rights protection law and the law on mediation. Currently, there is no legal framework of online adjustment of disputes. The necessity of implementing such a system of mechanisms stems from the increasing number of consumers complaints related to online purchases and rendering online services. BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Tariff hikes by the United States will to some extent result in an increase of enterprise operation costs, lower competitiveness and fewer orders, but their impact on China's manufacturing sector is generally controllable, a senior official told Xinhua in an interview. The 200 billion U.S. dollars worth of Chinese goods on which the United States imposed additional tariffs accounts for 41.8 percent of China's exports to the country, but only 8 percent of China's total exports, said Wang Zhijun, vice minister of industry and information technology. Moreover, about half of the affected enterprises are foreign-funded enterprises, including many American companies, said Wang. In other words, the tariff hikes hurt not only the interests of Chinese enterprises and consumers, but also U.S. companies and consumers as well as the global supply chain, said Wang. Latest statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that the value added by China's major industrial firms increased 5.4 percent year on year in April, beating market expectations and posting an optimized structure. In addition, the purchasing managers' index for the manufacturing sector held steady at 50.1, remaining within the expansion range. NBS statistics also showed that profits of China's major industrial firms fell 3.7 percent year-on-year in April, thanks to a higher base in April last year and an earlier unleash of the market demand in March as lower value-added tax rate was implemented on April 1. Li Chao, an analyst with Huatai Research Institute, said that industrial profits would return to the positive territory, but how fast will depend on market demand, prices and the policy incentives of tax cuts and fee reductions. "Trade frictions may amplify short-term fluctuations but will not impact the long-term trend of asset prices based on what happened during the U.S.-Japan and U.S.-EU trade frictions," Li said. As enterprises may continue to foreload their exports, the data will not worsen in the second quarter, he said. BETTER STRUCTURE Based on figures from April, China's manufacturing sector has seen improving structure and efficiency. Among the 41 sub-sectors, 27 saw higher profits and 14 reported lower earnings in April. On the positive side, consumer product manufacturers and equipment producers maintained relatively fast profit growth, reflecting structural improvement. In the period, major special-purpose equipment producers recorded a 17.9 percent profit growth, while electrical machinery and device producers' profits climbed 14.5 percent. The structural change was in line with a shift in China's economic growth drivers from exports and investment to domestic consumption and high-end industries, analysts said. For every 100 yuan of revenue they generated, the costs they bore fell by 1.1 yuan from a year earlier to 88.7 yuan in April. Wang said that manufacturing firms' confidence had been enhanced thanks to the gradual unleashing of policy dividends as a result of the country's lower value-added tax rate. INNOVATION ENCOURAGED In the long run, innovation will be the main engine to propel the expansion of China's manufacturing industry. To encourage corporate innovation, China unveiled various measures, including establishing a series of innovation centers and laboratories, increasing support for enterprises in key fields and optimizing innovation-oriented policies. Wang said China will place greater emphasis on innovation in enterprises' development and urge them to increase research and development investment with more tax cuts and fund and loan issuances for innovation projects. More efforts will be made to facilitate research on core technologies, accelerate the intelligent, green and service-oriented upgrading of the manufacturing industry, and advance the integrated development of the manufacturing industry and industrial internet, Wang said. While enhancing resource sharing on various research platforms, the country will promote the application of scientific achievements, encourage domestic enterprises to carry out international innovation cooperation and intensify the protection of intellectual property. Despite the disruptions from the increased tariffs imposed by the United States, Wang said the country's manufacturing industry has a bright prospect. Official statistics showed that from January to April, actual foreign investment in China's manufacturing sector jumped 11.4 percent year on year. A Nepalese army bomb disposal squad member works to dispose an improvised explosive device in Lalitpur, Nepal, May 27, 2019. The death toll in Sunday's two separate bomb explosions in Kathmandu, capital of Nepal has climbed to four, a spokesperson of the Nepal Police said. (Xinhua/Sulav Shrestha) KATHMANDU, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Nepali security agencies were on high alert on Monday during a general strike called upon by an underground armed outfit suspected of making two bomb explosions in capital city Kathmandu that killed four people and leaving eight others injured on Sunday. Bishwaraj Pokharel, the spokesperson of the Nepal Police, told Xinhua that security has been stepped up across the country to avoid any untoward incidents during the general strike called by the armed outfit. "We are on high alert following Sunday's two major explosions," Pokharel said, adding that over 5,000 police personnel have been deployed in maintaining security in Kathmandu. The one-day general strike affected normal lives of people across the country. Main markets, academic institutions, corporate offices and private organizations remained closed while public transportation was badly affected due to the general strike, media reports said here. The armed group had called for the strike to exert pressure on the government to release its arrested cadres, according to reports. During the strike, the police have defused improvised explosive devices in some parts of the country which were planted to terrorize people. The cadres of Chand-led group torched three vehicles in Ramechhap, Makawanpur and Surkhet districts. The police spokesperson said that they were investigating into Sunday's blasts. The two explosions took place at around 4:30 p.m. local time on Sunday. "Our preliminary investigation shows that all the four killed and eight injured on Sunday's blasts were the cadres of the outlawed Chand-led group. We have been investigating into the blasts," Pokharel said. The first explosion took place at a private house in Ghattekulo area, barely one kilometer away from the prime minister's office while the second explosion took place inside a hair salon at Sukedhara area. "We believe that the cadres of the Chand-led group were killed and injured when they were collecting improvised explosive devices to detonate during the general strike called for Monday (today)," another senior police official told Xinhua. Meanwhile, Nepali Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa on Monday told parliamentarians that the government was committed to bring the Chand-led armed group to the mainstream peaceful politics. Addressing a session of the country's House of Representatives in Kathmandu, the home minister vowed to take action against the perpetrators involved in the recent bomb explosions in the capital. "The government is committed to maintain robust security across the country. All those involved in the bomb explosions will soon be arrested," he said. The Chand-led group, which is one of the breakaway factions of the former rebel Maoist, has been known for violence in Nepal in recent years. The group was banned by the Nepali government in March this year after it was found involved in criminal activities and explosions in different parts of the country. Security forces started a cordon and search operation in Kareemabad village of Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Tuesday. After receiving specific information about the presence of militants, security forces started a cordon and search operation in Kareemabad village in the wee hours of Tuesday morning, police sources said. Reports from the village said security forces in large numbers are carrying out a door-to-door search operation to flush out the hiding militants. Meanwhile, minor clashes have erupted between the security forces and the village's youths during the search operation. Reeling under the impact of poll debacle, the Congress is in deep trouble, with party chief Rahul Gandhi insisting on quitting the post amid a series of resignations, setting the stage for a likely meeting of its highest decision-making body, the Congress Working Committee (CWC), in the next four days. Amid indications that the party was considering a presidium system for taking it forward, the CWC is likely to discuss the leadership issue, sources said on Monday. It is learnt that Rahul Gandhi has conveyed that he has not changed his mind to quit. UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi are also learnt to have come to terms with his view that there should be a change of guard, though they have been of the view that the blame for defeat cannot be put on one person. During the day, party treasurer Ahmed Patel and general secretary K. C. Venugopal met Rahul and tried to persuade him not to press for his exit from the post. However, Patel later said that he had gone to meet Rahul for routine administrative work. "I had sought time before the CWC to meet the Congress President to discuss routine administrative work. The meeting today was in that context. All other speculation is incorrect and baseless," Patel ttweeted. Sources said the CWC, the party's top decision-making body, is also likely to look at the structural reforms needed by the party. There is also a view in the Congress that Gandhi is sending a clear message to the old guard by holding out because there should be full freedom in decision-making. Sources said Rahul Gandhi did not give appointment to Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot in an apparent snub to him. The Congress President was not keen on Gehlot seeking ticket for his son. Gandhi is also learnt to have declined other appointments including of newly-eleced MPs who wanted to see him. The Congress is also believed to be considering a presidium system, as resignations pile up amid a deepening crisis. Gandhi had offered to resign taking moral responsibility for the party's defeat but the Congress Working Committee at its meeting on Saturday unanimously rejected the offer. Meanwhile, three more state party chiefs have tendered their resignations, taking the total number to six. Congress party chiefs of Jharkhand, Assam and Punjab have also resigned in addition to those from Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Odisha. Karanataka Pradesh Campaign Committee chairman H. K. Patil has also resigned. Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jhakar, who was the sitting MP from Gurdaspur, sent his resignation to Congress President Rahul Gandhi taking moral responsibility for losing to actor Sunny Deol from the seat. The Congress has generally done well in Punjab winning eight of 13 seats. Jharkhand Congress chief Ajoy Kumar has also tendered his resignation. The party won only one seat in the state where it had an alliance with the JMM, RJD and other parties. While the party won Singhbhum seat, it lost Khunti by only 1,445 votes and Lohardaga by 10,363 votes. The party's Assam unit chief Ripun Bora also wrote to Gandhi taking moral responsibility for the party not being able to increase its tally from its previous tally of three seats. He has said in his letter that Gandhi may choose to replace him. Maharashtra unit chief Ashok Chavan, Uttar Pradesh unit chief Raj Babbar, and Odisha Congress chief Niranjan Patnaik have already sent their resignations. Yogendra Misra, the district Congress chief in Amethi in Uttar Pradesh has also sent his resignation, owning moral responsibility for Rahul Gandhi's defeat from Amethi. Days after the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) scripted a resounding victory in the Lok Sabha elections, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat said that "Ram ka kaam karna hai, Ram ka kaam ho kar hi rahega (Ram's work needs to be done and Ram's work will be done)." Bhagwat made the comments during his visit to Udaipur on Sunday for a "mandir pran pratishtha" programme in Pratap Gaurav Kendra, where he was accompanied by spiritual leader Morari Bapu. The programme was first addressed by Morari Bapu. Speaking on the occasion, he said, "Since centuries this country has been chanting the name of lord Ram. Today the country is passing through such circumstances that we need to think of doing Ram's work too. It makes me happy to see Ram's name written on the youth's hands." Soon after his address, Bhagwat said, "We should remember the message given by Morari Bapu. Ram's work needs to be done and Ram's work will be done. Ram resides in our hearts. We all need to be active and move ahead to fulfil our goals." Bhagwat was on a four-day trip to Udaipur since Friday to attend the RSS-run 'Sangh Shiksha Seva II' training camp. Soon after landing in Udaipur airport on Friday, Bhagwat told the media: "Aa gaayi hai sarkar wapas (The government is back)." Even before the Lok Sabha elections, the RSS had pitched for the construction of Ram temple in Ayodha, and had asked the Narendra Modi-led government to hasten the process of temple construction. The Ram Temple has been on the BJP manifesto since 2014. Trucks at the Lhasa West Railway Station in Lhasa, Tibet autonomous region, are ready to transport goods across the region. [Wang Keju/China Daily] The Qinghai-Tibet Railway has made Sama village in the Tibet autonomous region a model for rural prosperity. Sama, which sits right next to the Lhasa West Railway Station in Tibet's capital, was once an impoverished village with shabby houses, muddy roads and poor infrastructure. Villagers used to rely on farming and grazing, and obtaining adequate food could be a challenge for over 800 families, let alone taking good care of seniors and providing good education to the children. "There were a large number of young people in the village without jobs and living on government assistance," said Nyima, Party secretary of the village. Lack of access to transportation also caused difficulties to villagers and hindered poverty alleviation efforts. Life before the railway was extremely hard, he added. However, with the opening of the 1,956-kilometer Qinghai-Tibet Railway on July 1, 2006, the inflow of supplies was made possible. Villagers saw great opportunities in freight services with their favorable location near Lhasa West Railway Station. Under a call from Nyima, every household in the village gave a share of money to co-found Zhentong Logistic Company. Zhang Weidong, Party secretary of Lhasa West Railway Station of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway Company, said that as the largest freight station in Tibet, it's responsible for the transportation of daily necessities and construction materials across the region. With little money at the time, villagers only bought 30 small vans. In order to get everything right as soon as possible, they paid a large sum of money hiring an experienced manager who had worked for a logistics company in Beijing to teach them how to run the business. "The logistics industry should be given priority in order to revitalize the countryside. Many villagers worked as drivers, loaders or cleaners in our company and at the station. It became rare to see young people wandering around," said Nyima, who is also the legal representative of the company. Thanks to the villagers' endeavors and the geographic advantages, the company now has over 130 vehicles in operation, and its annual revenue grew to more than four million yuan ($579,000) last year. Every villager received at least 2,000 yuan for a year-end bonus from the company in February. The area also saw more businesses spring up, such as hotels, restaurants and convenience stores. Villagers no longer need to travel more than 1,000 kilometers away to earn a living, he added. "The whole village was lifted out of poverty in 2015. The annual per capita income of our village is more than 10,000 yuan, five times that of 2006. Some of the villagers even bought apartments in downtown Lhasa," Nyima said, adding that even a tractor was a rare sight in the village, but now almost every family has their own private car. Cargo throughput of Lhasa West Railway Station reached 5.75 million metric tons in 2018, more than 17 times than that of 2006. "The station has been expanding, and when it's done it will be able to handle over 8 million tons of goods every year," Zhang said. "It will then help more villages like Sama." SNc Channels: Search About Salem-News.com May-27-2019 19:19 TweetFollow @OregonNews Oregon National Guard in Memorial Day Events Around the State Our Nations Vietnam veterans and veterans from all eras were honored. Brigadier General William J. Prendergast, Oregon Army National Guard Land Component Commander. (National Guard photo by Zach Holden, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs) (SALEM, Ore.) - Authorized by Congress, established under the Secretary of Defense, and launched by President Obama on May 25, 2012, the Vietnam War Commemoration recognizes all men and women who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces from Nov. 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975. Nine million Americans, approximately 6.4 million living today, served during that period, and the commemoration makes no distinction between veterans who served in-county, in-theater, or were stationed elsewhere during those 20 years. All answered the call of duty. The proclamation extends the commemoration from its inaugural event on Memorial Day 2012 through Veterans Day 2025. Brigadier General William J. Prendergast, Oregon Army National Guard Land Component Commander, delivered the Memorial Day address to those in attendance at Beaverton Veterans Memorial Park. Veterans, family members, friends and others gathered at the Oregon Vietnam Veterans Memorial to remember the sacrifices of service members in the Vietnam War and all other wars this Memorial Day, in Portland, Oregon, May 27, 2019. President Trump, in his 2017 presidential proclamation, stated: Throughout this Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War, and every March 29 thereafter, we will honor all those who answered our Nations call to duty. We vow to never again confuse personal disapproval of war with prejudice against those who honorably wear the uniform of our Armed Forces. With conviction, our Nation pledges our enduring respect, our continuing care, and our everlasting commitment to all Vietnam veterans. In Klamath Falls, Oregon, two F-15 Eagles assigned to the 173rd Fighter Wing based in Klamath Falls conduct a flyover in support of the Klamath Falls Memorial Day Parade, May 27, 2019. The 173rd FW is the sole F-15C training base for the United Sates Air Force, producing some of the worlds best air-to-air combat pilot. During the Memorial Day program held at Beaverton Veterans Memorial Park in Beaverton, Oregon, May 27, 2019, Staff Sgt. Jackson Ryan & Sgt. Paul Marcinuk, assigned to Bravo Battery 2-218 Field Artillery, Oregon Army National Guard conducted a howitzer salute. Members of the Willamette National Cemetery Joint posted the Colors during Memorial Day ceremony, May 27, 2019, Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon. A Howitzer Salute by Alpha Battery 2-218th Field Artillery, Oregon Army National Guard during a Memorial Day Ceremony at the Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, May 27, 2019. _________________________________________ United-states | Memorial | Military | Most Commented on Articles for May 27, 2019 | Maharashtra, India -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Aircraft Wire and Cable Market Aircraft Wire and Cable market provides a detailed analysis of the industry for the estimation period of 2019 2025. Aircraft Wire and Cable Market by Reports Monitor report includes market size, growth rate, market share, application, future trends. The market research of Aircraft Wire and Cable is precise but encloses all points in brief which are essential and relevant for a customer of Aircraft Wire and Cable industry. The report consists of a detailed analysis of substantial returns that has been expected to be gathered at the end of the forecasted period of time. The report also underlines the evaluation of materials and markets, technological advancements, unpredictable industry structure, and capacities of the Aircraft Wire and Cable market. The worldwide market for Aircraft Wire and Cable is expected to grow at a CAGR of roughly over the next five years, will reach million US$ in 2025, from million US$ in 2019 Get a PDF Sample Copy, With 30 Mins Free consultation! Click Here https://www.reportsmonitor.com/request_sample/310862 The following manufacturers are assessed in this report in terms of sales, revenue, and market share for each company: Amphenol, Ametek, A.E. 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Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- The purpose of this rich study presented by FactMR is to elaborate the various market projections impacting the global amorphous iron (fe amorphous) market during the period until 2027. This assessment delivers high-end statistics concerning market size, Y-o-Y growth in trends and revenue share (US& Mn) linked to different geographies and segmentation types. Readers can acquire precise insights about growth trends along with opportunities that are expected to reshape the overall structure of the amorphous iron (fe amorphous) market during the forecast period. Request for Sample Report - https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=2472 Amorphous iron, which is predominantly known as Fe amorphous, is an iron alloy in a state which has disproportionate or disorderly atomic structure. Amorphous iron has good electric conductivity and magnetic properties, as a result of which amorphous iron or Fe amorphous is commonly used as a magnetic material in a variety of end-use applications. Amorphous iron can be obtained in the form of a thin foil or ribbon. Key Developments in the Amorphous Iron (Fe Amorphous) Market Hitachi Metals, Ltd., a Japanese player in the amorphous iron (Fe amorphous) market, has been successful at developing the latest technology that enables using amorphous metals, including amorphous iron, as a magnetic materials with a higher rate of efficiency. The company recently announced that its prototype of amorphous metal motor with the core structure manufacturing using the technology could achieve 92.7% efficiency, reaching the IE5 class level (International Efficiency standard). Hoganas AB, a Swedish multinational player in the amorphous iron (Fe amorphous) market, recently acquired 100% shares of Alvier PM-Technology, a Swiss company that develops and supplies tooling solutions for powder metallurgy (PM). With this acquisition, the company aims to develop innovative electromagnetic as well as mechanical automotive applications by leveraging Alvier's expertise in PM and Soft Magnetic Composite (SMC) tooling solutions. Rio Tinto Group, an Anglo-Australian metals and mining corporation, recently announced its plans to invest in iron ore mines and deliver premium iron ore product. The company announced that it is following a 'value over volume approach' and aims to utilize an increased level of automation and digitization. The company is planning to invest US$ 1.55 billion, with joint venture partners Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation and Mitsui & Co., to sustain Pilbara iron ore production capacity. Followed by this announcement, the company declared the approval of an investment of over US$ 2.6 billion in the Koodaideri iron ore mine in Western Australia. The FactMR report provides comprehensive information about competitive environment and company developments in the amorphous iron (Fe amorphous) market. The report provides key financials and information on winning strategies of amorphous iron (Fe amorphous) market players including GKN plc. (Hoeganaes Corporation), Rio Tinto PLC, Hoganas AB, Voestalpine Stahl GmbH, Hitachi Metals Ltd, Toshiba Corp (Toshiba Materials Co., Ltd.), Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd., VACUUMSCHMELZE GmbH & Co. KG, PMG Holding GmbH, and Hengdian Group DMEGC Magnetics Co., Ltd. Browse Full Report on Market with TOC - https://www.factmr.com/report/2472/amorphous-iron-market Especially in the U.S., a large percentage of electric motor manufacturers are shifting to amorphous iron since the U.S. government has imposed a ban on imports of rare earth magnets from China. Thereby, motor manufacturers and other industry players are finding ways to diversify their sources of magnetic materials, and this is expected to create numerous opportunities for players in the amorphous iron (Fe amorphous) market. Use of Amorphous Iron in Improving Energy Efficiency of Machines Driving Adoption Though amorphous iron or Fe amorphous is often considered an exotic material, its unique magnetic properties have contributed to increasing its adoption among end-users. Magnetic properties of amorphous iron balance the characteristics of Superparamagnetic and single-domain Ferromagnetism. Unique magnetic properties of amorphous iron aid in enhancing energy efficiency of an electrical equipment or power distribution systems. Increase in Iron Mine Production Keeps Prices Competitive According to the National Minerals Information Center, US Geological Survey, the global production of crude iron ore increased from 2.5 billion metric tons to around 3.3 billion metric tons between the period 2010 and 2015. Also, the global production of usable iron ore also witnessed a significant rise from 1.8 billion metric tons to around 2.3 billion metric tons during the span of five years. Steadily increasing global production of iron is expected to amplify the availability of raw materials for amorphous iron, helping manufacturers to keep the production costs under control. Research Methodology The FactMR report on amorphous iron (Fe amorphous) market is a result of extensive secondary research and the comprehensive primary research process for amorphous iron (Fe amorphous) market. The research methodology followed by analysts at FactMR is a proven approach that provides a base for compelling intelligence on amorphous iron (Fe amorphous) market. Have Any Question? Ask Our Industry Experts - https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=AE&rep_id=2472 About FactMR FactMR 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 FactMR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ Sellbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Global Market Insights added a new report on global Fire Control System Market to its research database. The report focuses on global major leading players with information such as company profiles, growth, product segment, technology segment, end user segment and region. Asia Pacific fire control system market share will grow considerably on account of rising defense expenditure across the region. For instance, the Chinese government increased its defense budget growth target up to 7.5% in 2019. Moreover, countries are also engaged in procuring modern equipment to improve their military operations significantly. For instance, in April 2019, the Indian government signed a strategic contract with Russia to procure 464 T-90 tanks with advanced fire control systems. Request for table of contents this Report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-toc/upcoming/3280 Rising demand for light weight fire control systems are positively influencing the fire control system market over the projected timeframe. Moreover, the enhanced operation of these systems at night along with superior vision and enemy locking and targeting capabilities owing to the presence of a telescope. Moreover, increasing investments from major economies for procuring and developing fire control systems are further expanding the industry share. For instance, in January 2019, Thailand announced the procurement of main battle tanks from China with superior fire control technologies. Fire Control System Market is anticipated to achieve lucrative growth rate from 2019 to 2025 pushed by increasing terrorist activities along with an upsurge in military and naval operations across borders to enhance national and international security. Rising defense budgets globally along with modernization of ageing equipment are further expanding the industry share over the projected timeframe. Request for customization @ https://www.gminsights.com/roc/3280 Based on platform, the fire control system market is categorized into land, airborne, and naval. Naval segment is expected to account for a considerable share on account of rising terrorism activities on seas globally. Moreover, industry players are entering into strategic contracts with government organizations for supporting their equipment. For instance, in October 2016, Lockheed Martin announced a strategic agreement with the U.S. Navy for providing logistics and engineering support for the MK 92 Fire Control Systems. Based on system, the fire control system market is segmented into target acquisition & guidance, ballistic computers, navigation, and power. Target acquisition & guidance systems will account for a considerable share over the projected timeframe owing to the development of lightweight and compact target acquisition systems by industry players. Incorporation of inertial sensors and higher adoption of these systems by military forces to enhance the nation security are further supporting the segment penetration. The benefits offered by the fire control systems including rapid target engagements, improving situational awareness along with improved gun crew survival are attracting military and naval forces globally to deploy such systems. Moreover, superior operational efficiency along with higher system accuracy to attack targets and enemies further expands the fire control system market share over the projected timeframe. Browse Complete Report @ https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/fire-control-system-market Incorporation of advanced sensors and tools for felicitating automated fire control operations and trajectory correction are boosting the fire control system market. Moreover, industry players are offering customized and advanced fire control systems for complying to the requirements of military. For instance, in March 2019, Leonardo entered into a strategic contract with the U.S. Army to offer vehicle-based infrared sensors for fire control systems and surveillance for a wide range of ground combat vehicles. Few of the prominent players in the fire control system market share include Raytheon Company, BAE Systems, Safran, General Dynamics Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Rheinmetall AG, Leonardo, Aselsan A.S., and Elbit Systems Ltd. Manufacturers are signing long term contracts with countries to provide fire control systems and increase their revenue share. For instance, in January 2019, the Raytheon Company announced a deal with the U.S. Navy to provide MK 99 fire control systems. Browse Related Report: Aircraft EMI Shielding Market Size Explores New Growth Opportunities By 2024: https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/aircraft-emi-shielding-market-size-explores-new-growth-opportunities-by-2024-2019-05-20 About Global Market Insights: Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology. Contact us: Arun Hegde Corporate Sales, USA Global Market Insights, Inc. Phone:1-302-846-7766 Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688 Email: sales@gminsights.com Web: https://www.gminsights.com Alipay's logo is seen at the checkout counters of a ROSSMANN store. (People's Daily/Li Qiang) Chinese e-commerce platforms have added wings to our products, said Eduard R. Dorrenberg, CEO of one of the largest German cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies Dr. Wolff Group, explaining how the incredible development of Chinas e-commerce platforms has significantly boosted sales of German consumer products. Last year, Dr. Wolff Group saw its profits in China triple from 2017. According to Dorrenberg, the Chinese market has not only contributed greatly to the revenues of Dr. Wolff Group, but also boosted the companys course of digitalization. Raoul Rossmann, CEO of ROSSMANN, the second largest drug store chain in Germany, shared Dorrenbergs view about Chinas e-commerce development, saying that the pace and progress of Chinas e-commerce development amazes us. The combination of social media, payment services, and e-commerce is much more advanced than that of Germany. This helps us see more clearly Germanys potential for digital transformation. In April 2017, ROSSMANN introduced Alipay, Chinas leading payment platform into the payment system of the company thereby becoming Alipays largest client in Germany. The logo of Alipay, the first app adopted by the company that enables people to pay by scanning a QR code with a mobile phone, is now seen at the checkout counters of more than 2,100 ROSSMANN stores. ROSSMANN is a positive example of the integration of online and offline transactions. A Chinese can check the online stores for information about our products before he or she travels to Germany, and then people can buy products and pay via Alipay at our offline stores when they are in Germany, said Karl Wehner, head of Alibabas Germany office. Made in Germany usually stands for high quality and safety, which helps win the trust of Chinese consumers, said Wehner, disclosing that if we see demand for the products of a European brand in the Chinese market, we will try to approach that brand for cooperation. Alibaba opened its office in Germany in 2015 and started to approach the two German giants, Dr. Wolff Group and ROSSMANN to discuss cooperation. Before that, the Chinese market, though seemingly great, was far away from Germany. In fact, before opening online stores on Chinas e-commerce platforms, many products of Dr. Wolff Group and ROSSMANN had already attracted a large number of customers in China, owing much to people who work as daigou, cross-border personal shoppers who buy goods in foreign countries and then resell them in China. Chinese consumers have shown increasing demand for high-quality import goods, and products created by Dr. Wolff Group and ROSSMANN can exactly meet such aspiration, according to Wehner, expressing that fine e-commerce platforms of China have been a bridge between German products and the Chinese market. In the latter half of 2016, online flagship stores of ROSSMANN and Alpecin, a shampoo brand of Dr. Wolff Group, were opened on Alibabas Tmall, one of the most popular online shopping platforms in China. During the Singles Day, a global shopping spree seen last year, sales of Alpecin reached a record high of 60,000 bottles within 24 hours, while ROSSMANN launched sales promotions in its online Chinese stores and offline German stores at the same time, posting 2,000 Singles Day promotion-themed ads on German streets. Today, for every three bottles of Alpecin sold in the world, one goes to Asia, with China being a critical channel. Dr. Wolff Group now works in cooperation with over 30 Chinese e-commerce platforms, including Tmall, JD.com, and Vipshop. Shanghai is one of the four regional headquarters of Dr. Wolff Group. In last years China International Import Expo in Shanghai, Alibaba announced that it will import $200 billion worth of products in the coming five years, noting that Germany was among the top five sources of imports. With annual active users reaching 636 million, more than the total population of the European Union, Alibaba, Chinas leading e-commerce conglomerate, has the strength to realize such a goal, which means infinite possibilities for such German local companies as ROSSMANN and Dr. Wolff Group. Selbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- The global blood transfusion sets are mainly produced in Europe, and Europe accounts for more than 40% share of production, followed by North America and China. In China, there are many small scale manufacturers to produce blood transfusion sets, but the Chinese blood transfusion sets product qualities are relatively low, and its products are mainly exported to some developing countries, such as Africa and South America. Blood Transfusion is generally the process of receiving blood or blood products into one's circulation intravenously. Transfusions are used for various medical conditions to replace lost components of the blood. ,In the report, we counted the Blood Transfusion set. Request a sample Report of Blood Transfusion Market at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1550088?utm_source=ReleaseWirE&utm_medium=VS Global consumer markets are mainly concentrated in Europe and North America, China's potential market demand is huge, Because China's large population and growing economy, which increasing people? spending power, Africa and South Africa has a huge potential market demand, But the level of their economic development is low, people who live there do not have the spending power. With the China manufacturers expanding the production, the sales price of China declined slightly. The sales prices of Europe, USA and Japan were always falling gently in the past five years. The worldwide market for Blood Transfusion is expected to grow at a CAGR of roughly xx% over the next five years, will reach xx million US$ in 2024, from xx million US$ in 2019, according to a new Research study. This report focuses on the Blood Transfusion 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. The Blood Transfusion market stands tall as one of the most proactive industry verticals, as claimed by a new research report. This research study forecasts this space to accrue substantial proceeds by the end of the projected period, aided by a plethora of driving forces that will fuel the industry trends over the forecast duration. A gist of these driving factors, in tandem with myriad other dynamics pertaining to the Blood Transfusion market, such as the risks that are prevalent across this industry as well as the growth opportunities existing in Blood Transfusion market, have also been outlined in the report. A brief outline of the Blood Transfusion market scope: Global industry remuneration Individualized and overall growth rate Market trends Competitive reach Product spectrum Application terrain Distributor analysis Sales channel evaluation Marketing channel trends Now and later Market Competition Trend Market Concentration Rate One of the most vital pointers that makes the Blood Transfusion market report worth a purchase is the extensive overview of the competitive spectrum of the vertical. The study efficiently segregates the Blood Transfusion market into B.Braun, TERUMO, Grifols, Fresenius Kabi, GAMA GROUP, Welford Manufacturing, Helm Medical, Vogt Medical, JMS Co., Wego and Suzhou Laishi, as per the competitive hierarchy. In essence, these companies have been vying with one another to accrue a near-dominant position in the industry. Ask for Discount on Blood Transfusion Market Report at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/1550088?utm_source=ReleaseWirE&utm_medium=VS The report supplies substantial data regarding the market share that every one of these companies currently garner across this business, in tandem with the market share that they are expected to procure by the end of the forecast period. Also, the report elaborates on details pertaining to the products manufactured by each of these firms, that would help new entrants and prominent stakeholders work on their competition and strategy portfolios. Not to mention, their decision-making process is liable to get easier on account of the fact that the Blood Transfusion market report also enumerates a gist of the product price trends and the profit margins of each firm in the industry. Questions that the Blood Transfusion market report answers with respect to the regional terrain of the business space: The regional spectrum, as per the report, is segregated into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America & Middle East and Africa. Which among these zones is most likely to accrue the maximum market share by the end of the forecast duration? How much is the sales estimates of each firm in question? Also, how strong do the revenue statistics stand pertaining to the current market scenario? What exactly is the remuneration that each geography holds at present? How much revenue will every region including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America & Middle East and Africa account for, by the end of the projected timeframe? How much is the growth rate which each geography is estimated to depict over the estimated timeline? Important takeaways from the study: The Blood Transfusion market report plays host to a plethora of deliverables that may prove highly beneficial. Say for example, the report underlines the information pertaining to market competition trends highly essential data subject to competitor intelligence and the ongoing market trends that would enable shareholders to stay competitive and make the most of the growth opportunities prevailing in the Blood Transfusion market. Another vital takeaway from the report can be credited to the market concentration rate that would aid investors to speculate on the current sales dominance and the plausible trends of the future. Further deliverables provided in the report include details regarding the sales channels deployed by prominent vendors in order to retail their stance in the industry. Some of these include direct and indirect marketing. The Key Objectives of The Report Are as Follows: Define, Analyze and Forecast Blood Transfusion Market by Product Applications, Key Players and Region. Forecast the Market Size with Varied Segments Concerning Main Regions Give Elaborated Data Regarding the Foremost Factors (Opportunities, Drivers, Restraints, And Industry-Specific Challenges) Influencing the Expansion of Blood Transfusion Market. Analyze the Industry with Relation to Individual Growth Trends, Prospects and Contributions to The Whole Blood Transfusion Market. Analyze Opportunities Within the Marketplace for Varied Stakeholders by Distinguishing the High-Growth Segments of Blood Transfusion Market. Profile the Key Players and Comprehensively Analyses Their Market Position in Terms of Ranking and Core Competencies Together with The Competitive Landscape. Analyze Competitive Developments, Like Partnerships and Joint Ventures, New Product Developments, Expansions, And Development in Blood Transfusion Market. For More Details On this Report: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/global-blood-transfusion-market-2019-by-manufacturers-regions-type-and-application-forecast-to-2024 Some of the Major Highlights of TOC covers: 3 Global Blood Transfusion Sales, Revenue, Market Share and Competition by Manufacturer (2017-2018) 3.1 Global Blood Transfusion Sales and Market Share by Manufacturer (2017-2018) 3.2 Global Blood Transfusion Revenue and Market Share by Manufacturer (2017-2018) 3.3 Market Concentration Rate 3.3.1 Top 3 Blood Transfusion Manufacturer Market Share in 2018 3.3.2 Top 6 Blood Transfusion Manufacturer Market Share in 2018 3.4 Market Competition Trend 4 Global Blood Transfusion Market Analysis by Regions 4.1 Global Blood Transfusion Sales, Revenue and Market Share by Regions 4.1.1 Global Blood Transfusion Sales and Market Share by Regions (2014-2019) 4.1.2 Global Blood Transfusion Revenue and Market Share by Regions (2014-2019) 4.2 North America Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 4.3 Europe Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 4.4 Asia-Pacific Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 4.5 South America Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 4.6 Middle East and Africa Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 5 North America Blood Transfusion by Country 5.1 North America Blood Transfusion Sales, Revenue and Market Share by Country 5.1.1 North America Blood Transfusion Sales and Market Share by Country (2014-2019) 5.1.2 North America Blood Transfusion Revenue and Market Share by Country (2014-2019) 5.2 United States Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 5.3 Canada Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 5.4 Mexico Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 6 Europe Blood Transfusion by Country 6.1 Europe Blood Transfusion Sales, Revenue and Market Share by Country 6.1.1 Europe Blood Transfusion Sales and Market Share by Country (2014-2019) 6.1.2 Europe Blood Transfusion Revenue and Market Share by Country (2014-2019) 6.2 Germany Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 6.3 UK Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 6.4 France Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 6.5 Russia Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 6.6 Italy Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 7 Asia-Pacific Blood Transfusion by Country 7.1 Asia-Pacific Blood Transfusion Sales, Revenue and Market Share by Country 7.1.1 Asia-Pacific Blood Transfusion Sales and Market Share by Country (2014-2019) 7.1.2 Asia-Pacific Blood Transfusion Revenue and Market Share by Country (2014-2019) 7.2 China Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 7.3 Japan Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 7.4 Korea Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 7.5 India Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 7.6 Southeast Asia Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 8 South America Blood Transfusion by Country 8.1 South America Blood Transfusion Sales, Revenue and Market Share by Country 8.1.1 South America Blood Transfusion Sales and Market Share by Country (2014-2019) 8.1.2 South America Blood Transfusion Revenue and Market Share by Country (2014-2019) 8.2 Brazil Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 8.3 Argentina Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) 8.4 Colombia Blood Transfusion Sales and Growth Rate (2014-2019) Read More Reports On: https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/Inventory-Management-Software-Market-Size-Soaring-at-9-CAGR-to-Reach-3310-million-USD-by-2024-2019-05-23 Contact Us: Corporate Sales, Market Study Report LLC Phone: 1-302-273-0910 Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150 Email: sales@marketstudyreport.com Selbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Breast pumps are devices used to suction milk from the breasts of lactating mothers and store it in a container to provide a continuous supply of breast milk for feeding their infants as and when required. For instance, when the mothers are not able to feed directly or are away for work, the stored milk can be fed to the infant by the caretakers. Breast pumps assist in triggering the milk ejection response from lactating mothers by creating a seal around the nipple and applying and releasing pressure. Request a sample of this premium report titled Global Breast Pump Market Insights, Forecast to 2025 at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1673904?utm_source=releasewire.com&utm_medium=ADS The growth of the market is attributed to the rapid increase in working women population, inadequate maternity leave period and the growing awareness about the benefits and importance of breastfeeding. Other factors such as favourable reimbursement scenario, increasing healthcare expenditure by the government and technological developments in electric breast pumps will also help in the growth of the market. On the other hand, barriers such as high risk of contamination mainly in open system breast pumps, high maintenance of electricity battery pumps and hospital grade pumps, high cost of breast pumps coupled with low awareness, especially in under-developed countries such as Nigeria, Afghanistan and Bhutan are likely to restrain the market growth. The world breast pump market is segmented on the basis of technology, product type, application and geography. On the basis of technology, the market is segmented into manual breast pumps, battery powered breast pumps and electric breast pumps. By product type, the market is segmented into closed system breast pumps and open system breast pumps. Closed system breast pumps are both the highest revenue generating segment as well as the highest growing segment owing to higher benefits such as reduced risk of contamination and a preventive barrier between the pump and the milk collection kit. Based on application, the market is segmented into personal use pumps and healthcare/hospital grade pumps. In terms of geography, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC) and Latin America, Middle East and Africa (LAMEA). The North America breast pump market will be the leading revenue-generating region whereas Asia-Pacific will be the highest growing region, owing to growing demand for breast pumps. Asia-Pacific breast pump market is set to grow at a promising CAGR of approximately 10% from 2015 to 2022, due to factors such as rising disposable income and highly unmet medical needs. This report studies the global market size of Breast Pump in key regions like North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Central & South America and Middle East & Africa, focuses on the consumption of Breast Pump in these regions. This research report categorizes the global Breast Pump market by top players/brands, region, type and end user. This report also studies the global Breast Pump market status, competition landscape, market share, growth rate, future trends, market drivers, opportunities and challenges, sales channels and distributors. The following manufacturers are covered in this report, with sales, revenue, market share for each company: Philips Medela Pigeon Ameda Spectra Baby Products Ardo Medical NUK Tommee Tippee Dr.Brown's Chicco Unimom Lansinoh Goodbaby Evorie Rikang Baby Products Company Horigen Xiaobaixiong Baby Products Matyz Baby Products Company Realbubee Market size by Product: Manual Breast Pump Electrical Breast Pump Market size by End User: For Workplace For Homeuse Others The study objectives of this report are: To study and analyze the global Breast Pump market size (value & volume) by company, key regions, products and end user, breakdown data from 2014 to 2018, and forecast to 2025. To understand the structure of Breast Pump market by identifying its various subsegments. To share detailed information about the key factors influencing the growth of the market (growth potential, opportunities, drivers, industry-specific challenges and risks). Focuses on the key global Breast Pump companies, to define, describe and analyze the sales volume, value, market share, market competition landscape and recent development. To project the value and sales volume of Breast Pump submarkets, with respect to key regions. To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market. In this study, the years considered to estimate the market size of Breast Pump are as follows: History Year: 2014-2018 Base Year: 2018 Estimated Year: 2019 Forecast Year 2019 to 2025 This report includes the estimation of market size for value (million US$) and volume (K Units). Both top-down and bottom-up approaches have been used to estimate and validate the market size of Breast Pump market, to estimate the size of various other dependent submarkets in the overall market. Key players in the market have been identified through secondary research, and their market shares have been determined through primary and secondary research. All percentage shares, splits, and breakdowns have been determined using secondary sources and verified primary sources. For the data information by region, company, type and application, 2018 is considered as the base year. Whenever data information was unavailable for the base year, the prior year has been considered. Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report titled Global Breast Pump Market Insights, Forecast to 2025 at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/1673904?utm_source=releasewire.com&utm_medium=ADS Table of Contents: 1 Study Coverage 1.1 Breast Pump Product 1.2 Market Segments 1.3 Key Manufacturers Covered 1.4 Market by Type 1.4.1 Global Breast Pump Market Size Growth Rate by Product 1.4.2 Manual Breast Pump 1.4.3 Electrical Breast Pump 1.5 Market by End User 1.5.1 Global Breast Pump Market Size Growth Rate by End User 1.5.2 For Workplace 1.5.3 For Homeuse 1.5.4 Others 1.6 Study Objectives 1.7 Years Considered 2 Executive Summary 2.1 Global Breast Pump Market Size 2.1.1 Global Breast Pump Revenue 2014-2025 2.1.2 Global Breast Pump Sales 2014-2025 2.2 Breast Pump Growth Rate by Regions 2.2.1 Global Breast Pump Sales by Regions 2.2.2 Global Breast Pump Revenue by Regions 3 Breakdown Data by Manufacturers 3.1 Breast Pump Sales by Manufacturers 3.1.1 Breast Pump Sales by Manufacturers 3.1.2 Breast Pump Sales Market Share by Manufacturers 3.1.3 Global Breast Pump Market Concentration Ratio (CR5 and HHI) 3.2 Breast Pump Revenue by Manufacturers 3.2.1 Breast Pump Revenue by Manufacturers (2014-2019) 3.2.2 Breast Pump Revenue Share by Manufacturers (2014-2019) 3.3 Breast Pump Price by Manufacturers 3.4 Breast Pump Manufacturing Base Distribution, Product Types 3.4.1 Breast Pump Manufacturers Manufacturing Base Distribution, Headquarters 3.4.2 Manufacturers Breast Pump Product Type 3.4.3 Date of International Manufacturers Enter into Breast Pump Market 3.5 Manufacturers Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion Plans 4 Breakdown Data by Product 4.1 Global Breast Pump Sales by Product 4.2 Global Breast Pump Revenue by Product 4.3 Breast Pump Price by Product 5 Breakdown Data by End User 5.1 Overview 5.2 Global Breast Pump Breakdown Data by End User 6 North America 6.1 North America Breast Pump by Countries 6.1.1 North America Breast Pump Sales by Countries 6.1.2 North America Breast Pump Revenue by Countries 6.1.3 United States 6.1.4 Canada 6.1.5 Mexico 6.2 North America Breast Pump by Product 6.3 North America Breast Pump by End User 7 Europe 7.1 Europe Breast Pump by Countries 7.1.1 Europe Breast Pump Sales by Countries 7.1.2 Europe Breast Pump Revenue by Countries 7.1.3 Germany 7.1.4 France 7.1.5 UK 7.1.6 Italy 7.1.7 Russia 7.2 Europe Breast Pump by Product 7.3 Europe Breast Pump by End User 8 Asia Pacific 8.1 Asia Pacific Breast Pump by Countries 8.1.1 Asia Pacific Breast Pump Sales by Countries 8.1.2 Asia Pacific Breast Pump Revenue by Countries 8.1.3 China 8.1.4 Japan 8.1.5 Korea 8.1.6 India 8.1.7 Australia 8.1.8 Indonesia 8.1.9 Malaysia 8.1.10 Philippines 8.1.11 Thailand 8.1.12 Vietnam 8.1.13 Singapore 8.2 Asia Pacific Breast Pump by Product 8.3 Asia Pacific Breast Pump by End User 9 Central & South America 9.1 Central & South America Breast Pump by Countries 9.1.1 Central & South America Breast Pump Sales by Countries 9.1.2 Central & South America Breast Pump Revenue by Countries 9.1.3 Brazil 9.2 Central & South America Breast Pump by Product 9.3 Central & South America Breast Pump by End User Complete report titled at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/global-breast-pump-market-insights-forecast-to-2025?utm_source=releasewire.com&utm_medium=ADS RELATED REPORT: Heavy-Duty Trucks Market Size By Class (Class 5, Class 6, Class 7, Class 8), By Fuel (Diesel, Natural Gas, Hybrid Electric Vehicle, Gasoline), Growth Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2019 2025 Increasing requirements for fuel-efficient vehicles along with stringent regulations pertaining to carbon footprint and emission are supporting the development of highly efficient heavy-duty trucks market growth. Rising preference for trucks offering high payload capacity, reliable heavyweight components, and superior high ground clearance further enhances the appeal of such products for usage in trading and logistics sectors. Additionally, the higher torque to weight ratio makes them ideal for multiple applications in agriculture, construction, and mining activities. Complete report titled at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/heavy-duty-trucks-market?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 Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology is used to amplify or make several copies of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequence of interest. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology is used in various applications ranging from DNA cloning, diagnosis of hereditary diseases, functional analysis of genes, paternity testing, detection of infectious diseases, and forensic sciences. Digital PCR (dPCR) and quantitative PCR (qPCR) are two major types of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technologies. Digital PCR is a relatively new technique for DNA amplification and quantification that uses molecular counting protocol. Digital PCR is primarily used to differentiate expression of alleles, track viral infection to individual bacterial cells, quantify cancer genes, and detect fetal DNA in circulating blood. The key advantage of dPCR is that it is insensitive to reaction efficiency, and does not require preparation of standard curves. Real-time PCR, also known as quantitative PCR (qPCR), calculates PCR amplification simultaneously as the reaction proceeds. qPCR does not require post amplification processing, which reduces the turnaround time of the analytical process and the risk of contamination of amplified DNA or RNA. Increasing incidence of infectious diseases and genetic disorders and rise in number of diagnostic centers and hospitals are the major factors expected to drive the global digital PCR (dPCR) and qPCR market from 2016 to 2024. In addition, rising public-private investments to spread awareness about disease diagnostics and technologically advanced product launches are accelerating the growth of the global digital PCR (dPCR) and qPCR market. However, high cost of instruments associated with dPCR and limitations in the dPCR and qPCR techniques are expected to hamper the growth of the global digital PCR (dPCR) and qPCR market during the forecast period. Request to View Brochure of Report - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=17423 The digital PCR (dPCR) and qPCR market has been segmented based on product, application, end-user, and geography. In terms of product, the market has been segmented into instruments, consumables, and services. Based on application, the market has been segmented into clinical diagnostic, research, and forensic. In terms of end-user, the global market has been segmented into clinical laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, clinical research organization, and academic research institutes. Geographically, the global digital PCR (dPCR) and quantitative PCR (qPCR) market has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America accounts for a significant share of the global digital PCR (dPCR) and quantitative PCR (qPCR) market due to extensive research and development activities by major pharmaceutical companies in the region. Presence of health care organizations, promising government initiatives in implementing better molecular diagnostic methods in diseases diagnosis, and constantly improving reimbursement scenario for diagnostics is anticipated to propel the global market from 2016 to 2024. Europe is expected to be the second largest market for dPCR and qPCR. The advent of automated PCR instruments, high awareness about latest health care technologies, higher purchasing power, and affordability are likely to boost the dPCR and qPCR market in Europe. Moreover, rising geriatric population is projected to boost market growth in the region. Major factors expected to drive the market in Asia Pacific include improving health care infrastructure and rising private and public investment in life sciences research coupled with technological advancements in countries such as China and India. Significant economic development leading to increased research and development expenditure, and consequently higher usage of PCR in disease diagnosis are also expected to propel market growth in the region. Countries in Latin America such as Mexico and Brazil are expected to be potential markets due to evolving medical diagnostics infrastructure and high health care expenditures. Request to View ToC of the report - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=T&rep_id=17423 Major players operating in this market include Affymetrix, Inc., Agilent Technologies, Inc., Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., RainDance Technologies, Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., JN Medsys, Formulatrix, Inc., and Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC. (part of Merck). Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Depression is a common mental health problem among the majority of people living in the urban area. During the depression, people feel empty from inside and have less motivation toward life. Several options are available for the depression treatment, but drugs are commonly prescribed options by the medical profession for the treatment of depression. While the treatment of depression using drugs has several side effects. Therefore alternative drug free depression treatment options come in the frame. The most common method for drug free depression treatment are cognitive behavioral therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation. More option available for drug free depression treatment are herbal remedies, acupuncture, reflexography, guided imagery and relaxation. Along with this drug free depression treatment, yoga exercise and massages are preferred by the experts. Drug Free Depression Treatment Market: Drivers and Restraints The change in the lifestyle of people which has upsurge the number of cases of depression is the primary factor driving the growth of the drug free depression treatment. Also, the severe side-effects of consumption of antidepressant as drug treatment will boost the demand for drug free depression treatment market. Request to Sample of Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-9069 Moreover, the rising awareness campaign by Anxiety and Depression Association of America about the drug free depression treatment will propel the growth of drug free depression treatment market. People are not aware of the alternative option for treatment of depression which may deter the growth of drug free depression treatment market. Also, drug free depression treatment is more costly than drug treatment which can also hinder the growth of drug free depression treatment market. Drug Free Depression Treatment Market: Segmentation The global Drug Free Depression Treatment market is classified on the basis of treatment type, end user, and region. Based on treatment type Drug Free Depression Treatment market is segmented into following: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Herbal Remedies Acupuncture Reflexography Guided Imagery Others Based on facility type Drug Free Depression Treatment market is segmented into following: Hospitals Specialized Clinics Rehabilitation Centers Drug Free Depression Treatment Market: Overview The drug free depression treatment market is expected to gain the ultimate traction over the forecast period due to the rising number of people suffering from depression. According to the World Health Organization, Depression is the common mental disorder and it affects more than 300 million people of all ages around the globe. Cognitive behavioral therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation are the most widely used drug free depression treatment, hence this segment collectively gains the majority of the revenue share of global drug free depression treatment market. By therapy type, reflexography and guided imagery are the emerging segments for the global drug free depression treatment market. Among all end user, hospitals is the leading segment for global drug free depression treatment market which is then followed by specialized clinics. Drug Free Depression Treatment Market: Regional Overview North America is the most lucrative market for Drug Free Depression Treatment due to high adoption of Drug Free Depression Treatment among the people in the U.S. and Canada. Europe is the second most lucrative region for the Drug Free Depression Treatment market due to the availability of favorable reimbursement scenario in the majority of European countries. Asia-Pacific is the fastest growing region for Drug Free Depression Treatment market owing to the rising adoption of herbal medicine in counties like in India, China, and Japan. Latin America and the Middle East Africa region are the least lucrative for Drug Free Depression Treatment market due to lack of awareness about the alternative treatment options. Request Report for TOC @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-9069 Drug Free Depression Treatment Market: Key Players Some of the key players found across the value chain of Drug Free Depression Treatment are Cleveland Clinic, Fortis Healthcare, Mayo Clinic, Assurex Health, Inc., Great Oaks Recovery Center, McLean Hospital. and others Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Global Induction Heating Systems Market: Segmentation The chapters of segmentation allow the readers to understand the aspects of the market such as its products, available technologies, and applications of the same. These chapters are written in a manner to describe their development over the years and the course they are likely to take in the coming years. The research report also provides insightful information about the emerging trends that are likely to define progress of these segments in the coming years. Request a Sample of this report at: https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/1014427/global-induction-heating-systems-market Global Induction Heating Systems Market: Regional Segmentation For a deeper understanding, the research report includes geographical segmentation of the global Induction Heating Systems market. It provides an evaluation of the volatility of the political scenarios and amends likely to be made to the regulatory structures. This assessment gives an accurate analysis of the regional-wise growth of the global Induction Heating Systems 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) Global Induction Heating Systems Market: Research Methodology The research methodologies used by the analysts play an integral role in the way the publication has been collated. Analysts have used primary and secondary research methodologies to create a comprehensive analysis. For an accurate and precise analysis of the global Induction Heating Systems market, analysts have bottom-up and top-down approaches. Global Induction Heating Systems Market: Competitive Rivalry The research report includes an analysis of the competitive landscape present in the global Induction Heating Systems market. It includes an assessment of the existing and upcoming trends that players can invest in. Furthermore, it also includes an evaluation of the financial outlooks of the players and explains the nature of the competition. Key Players Mentioned in the Global Induction Heating Systems Market Research Report: SKF Timken Radyne Corporation Inductoheat Europe GmbH Ambrell EFD a.s. BALTECH GmbH Bega Special Tools C.E.F.I. GH ELECTROTERMIA S.A. GYS Miller OLIP SYSTEMS INC Simatec AG SMS Elotherm GmbH Thermatool Ultraflex Technologies Group Ask our Expert if You Have a Query at: enquiry@qyresearch.com Strategic Points Covered in TOC: Chapter 1: Introduction, market driving force product scope, market risk, market overview, and market opportunities of the global Induction Heating Systems market Chapter 2: Evaluating the leading manufacturers of the global Induction Heating Systems market which consists of its revenue, sales, and price of the products Chapter 3: Displaying the competitive nature among key manufacturers, with market share, revenue, and sales Chapter 4: Presenting global Induction Heating Systems market by regions, market share and with revenue and sales for the projected period Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9: To evaluate the market by segments, by countries and by manufacturers with revenue share and sales by key countries in these various regions Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- The research study presented here is a brilliant compilation of different types of analysis of critical aspects of the global Industrial Cameras market. It sheds light on how the global Industrial Cameras 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 Industrial Cameras 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 Industrial Cameras 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 Industrial Cameras market. The key consumption markets locate at European countries. After sweeping Europe, Asia and the North America have the same strong purchasing market.. The Industrial Cameras market was valued at 1150 Million US$ in 2017 and is projected to reach 4540 Million US$ by 2025, at a CAGR of 18.7% during the forecast period. In this study, 2017 has been considered as the base year and 2018 to 2025 as the forecast period to estimate the market size for Industrial Cameras. Access PDF Version of this Report at: https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/801441/global-industrial-cameras-industry-research-report-growth-trends-and-competitive-analysis-2018-2025 The report provides profiles of leading players operating in the global Industrial Cameras market such as : Basler FLIR Systems Inc Teledyne DALSA Vieworks Cognex Sony Jai Baumer Toshiba Teli Omron National Instruments IDS TKH Group Daheng Image The Imaging Source HIKvision Each player studied in the report is profiled while taking into account its production, market value, sales, gross margin, market share, recent developments, and marketing and business strategies. Besides giving a broad study of the drivers, restraints, trends, and opportunities of the global Industrial Cameras market, the report offers an individual, detailed analysis of important regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. Furthermore, important segments of the global Industrial Cameras market are studied in great detail with key focus on their market share, CAGR, and other vital factors. Type Segments: Line Scan Camera Area Scan Camera Application Segments : Industrial Medical and Life Sciences Security and Surveillance Intelligent Transportation System Other Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and market share and growth rate of Industrial Cameras Market these regions, from 2019 to 2025 (forecast), covering- North America (United States, Canada and Mexico) Europe (Germany, UK, France, Italy, Russia and Turkey etc.) Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam) South America (Brazil etc.) Middle East and Africa (Egypt and GCC Countries) Get Customized Report in your Inbox within 24 hours at: https://www.qyresearch.com/customize-request/form/801441/global-industrial-cameras-industry-research-report-growth-trends-and-competitive-analysis-2018-2025 Take a look at some of the important sections of the report: Industry Overview: The first section of the research study touches on an overview of the global Industrial Cameras market, market status and outlook, and product scope. Additionally, it provides highlights of key segments of the global Industrial Cameras 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 Industrial Cameras market, and market size by player. Company Profiles and Key Data: This section deals with the company profiling of leading players of the global Industrial Cameras 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 Industrial Cameras 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 Industrial Cameras 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 Industrial Cameras 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 Industrial Cameras market in the next five years? Which segment will take the lead in the global Industrial Cameras market? What is the average manufacturing cost? What are the key business tactics adopted by top players of the global Industrial Cameras market? Which region will secure a lion's share of the global Industrial Cameras market? Which company will show dominance in the global Industrial Cameras market? Click To View Full report :https://www.qyresearch.com/index/detail/801441/global-industrial-cameras-industry-research-report-growth-trends-and-competitive-analysis-2018-2025 About QYResearch QYResearch is a single destination for all the industry, company and country reports. We feature large repository of latest industry reports, leading and niche company profiles, and market statistics. QYResearch is the comprehensive collection of market intelligence products and services available on air. QYResearch also carries the capability to assist you with your customized market research requirements including in-depth market surveys, primary interviews, competitive landscaping, and company profiles. Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- The development of biomarkers that can measure responsiveness to treatments and those that assess the risk of developing into full-fledged disease are critical clinical endpoints. Hence, the development and launch of biomarkers that can measure well against such clinical endpoints is the need of the hour, belittling the massive investments made by companies so far. Hence, there is a need for more research that looks into reducing the gap between an emerging panoply of biomarker candidates and their efficacy against targeting product profiles. The need for non-DNA biomarkers to achieve this goal could unlock new, exciting avenues in the Tuberculosis Biomarkers Market. Request TOC of this Report- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=T&rep_id=569 Tuberculosis (TB) biomarkers occupy a central role in the disease characterization, infection and risk assessment, rapid diagnosis, and ultimately cure. Despite considerable volumes of research and the proliferation of biomarker candidates over the past decades, the global market is still characterized by large unmet needs. This is evident in the devastating effect of tuberculosis on the mortality and morbidity in worldwide populations. The market is replete with tuberculosis biomarkers that claim to measure the status of infection and further predict outcomes of vaccination or therapy. But, the fact that none of them is efficacious enough to enable a simple, accurate, and rapid diagnostic test for the infectious disease is a pressing concern. Tuberculosis is a major dilemma in low and middle- income countries, accounting for second leading cause of death from an infectious disease, globally. The diagnosis of tuberculosis is crucial for controlling the disease. Biomarkers are biological markers which measure and asses as an indicator of normal biological states, pathogenic process, pharmacological responses and future disease risk of patients. The tuberculosis biomarkers can help classify patients at a single time point having active tuberculosis, latent M. tuberculosis or no diseases. In addition, these biomarkers have potential to predict future reactivation risk, support monitoring of the diseases and support in development of new drugs for tuberculosis. Scientists are exploring more about the tuberculosis biomarkers for accurate, cost effective and rapid diagnostic assay for better predictive of tuberculosis treatment outcome. In 2015, Spring Meeting of the Biomarkers and Correlates Working Group (BCWG), tuberculosis experts from around the world, discussed and made recommendations for the TB vaccine community regarding the studies needed to better define biomarkers or correlates for risk of TB infection or disease. Furthermore, there has been an increase in investment of tuberculosis research which have help address shortcomings in tuberculosis biomarkers research and development. For instance, in 2012 The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announced $7.7 million funding for 10 new grants to identify biomarkers for diagnosing tuberculosis (TB). Thus, increase in investment and rising research and development activities associated with the tuberculosis biomarkers is anticipated to create new opportunities for the market, during the forecast period Tuberculosis biomarkers Market: Drivers and Restraints Tuberculosis biomarkers market primarily driven by a key factors such as the increasing incidence of tuberculosis. According to the WHO, in 2016 approximately 1.7 million people were dead and 10.4 million new cases were reported, worldwide. The introduction of newer tuberculosis biomarkers is expected to play a crucial role in helping scientist in the characterization and selection of suitable treatment strategies. For instance, in 2016 scientist from Oxford University identified new biomarkers for Tuberculosis (TB) which will provide valuable clues to assess whether potential new vaccines could be effective. The antigen detection technology and biomarkers discovery strategies are rapidly evolving, which is expected to fuel the Tuberculosis biomarkers market growth. Increasing awareness among doctors, patients and technicians in the developing countries would help in promoting the growth of market. However, more chances of experimental failure, ethical issues associated with the tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment, huge investment, time consumption, low validation and independent confirmation of biomarkers limits further development of tuberculosis biomarkers market. Browse Full Report with TOC- https://www.factmr.com/report/569/tuberculosis-biomarkers-market There is no evidence based results showing the best way to treat osteonecrosis and it acts as a restraint in the growth of the Tuberculosis biomarkers market Tuberculosis Biomarkers Market: Segmentation Tuberculosis biomarkers Market: Market Overview The global tuberculosis biomarkers market is expected to expand due to increasing rising healthcare burden of tuberculosis among different age groups. Tuberculosis biomarkers market has a presence of many regional players which have a huge market share in emerging countries operating at regional or country level. The future of tuberculosis biomarkers market anticipated with double CAGR during forecasting period. Biologic drug industry is investing on R&D and the key players are focusing on increasing their production capacity for tuberculosis biomarkers. Tuberculosis biomarkers Market: Region-Wise Overview Global tuberculosis biomarkers market segmented into following regions North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific, Japan and the Middle East and Africa. North America holds significant market share in the global tuberculosis biomarkers mainly due to the well-established players. The emerging regions in Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa holds promising future for rise in tuberculosis biomarker market, due to increase in awareness towards the tuberculosis and increase in population simultaneously. In developing economies such as India and China, new industry players are trying to establish their market presence by developing the generic version of the biomarker, through contract research organizations. This is expected to support in reduction in the manufacturing cost for the company and other production related cost. Tuberculosis biomarkers Market: Key Participants Key players in the tuberculosis biomarkers market are Antrum Biotech, QIAGEN, Thermo Fisher Scientific, QuantuMDx, bioMerieux, Abbott, Rapid Biosensor Systems Ltd, GlobalBio Diagnostics Corp., Danaher Corporation, Alere Inc and Cisbio Bioassays. 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 includes 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. Request Brochure of this Report- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=B&rep_id=569 About FactMR FactMR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market insights 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 FactMR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ Read Industry News at - https://www.industrynewsanalysis.com/ Rockville, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Graft delivery relates to the surgically transplantation of a piece of living tissues and the procedure can be highly essential as well as complex at the same time. Consequently, technological advancements have paved way to graft delivery devices that can minimally breach bone, fat, and vascular parts of the body to transfer drugs during plastic and reconstructive surgeries as well as arthroscopic and orthopedic surgeries. As per the evaluations of this business publication, the Graft Delivery Devices Market will continue to be fruitful in the near future with the demand incrementing at a profitable CAGR during the forecast period of 2017 to 2027. Request TOC of this Report- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=T&rep_id=576 Now, researchers at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary have shown that implanted mucosal graft can also be used to treat several diseases pertaining to the central nervous system by administrating through the nose. The new graft delivery device has the ability to gain access to the brain, which is otherwise blocked by dura or arachnoid membrane. The potential of these new graft delivery device is to transport large quantities of drugs including proteins, which had otherwise been unsuccessful so far. Researchers have already successfully treated Parkinson's disease in mouse using the new technique and human trails are expected to unfold soon. Graft delivery devices are designed for targeted transfer of hydrated autograft, allograft or synthetic bone graft materials to a surgical site while maximizing the material utilization. These devices are easy to assemble and enables the premixing of graft material with plasma concentrate, blood, bone marrow, platelet rich plasma, intravenous fluids, and others. Graft delivery device assists the mixing of graft materials used in different surgical procedures. Graft delivery devices enable surgeons to deliver the graft material of their choice in a minimally invasive manner. Traditionally, surgeons used a metal funnel and tamp to place bone graft which surgeon finds difficulties and danger with this technique. The graft delivery devices are designed to provide a safe, simple and ergonomic solution to deliver graft material in hard-to-reach places. Graft delivery devices are of various types depending on its applications. A stent graft delivery system comprises of a distal end intended to stay outside the patient and a proximal end to be introduced into the patient. A bone graft delivery device can consist of an elongate tube, a tip and a handle having a trigger. The trigger is activated to transport bone graft material through the tube. The tip has one or more openings to transfer the bone graft material to the preferred location and includes a surface suitable to act as a tool for decorticating bone. Browse Full Report with TOC- https://www.factmr.com/report/576/graft-delivery-devices-market Graft Delivery Devices Market: Drivers and Restraints The global graft delivery devices market is anticipated to register a significant CAGR over a forecast period. The rise in number of ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) in developed countries and ongoing technological advancements to make the procedure easier and safer, is anticipated to boost the demand of the graft delivery devices and drives the global graft delivery devices market. The rising in the healthcare infrastructure also anticipated to drives the global graft delivery devices market. However, lack of adequate physician and awareness about newly developed devices and technologies may hamper the demand for the graft delivery devices and restrain the growth of the global graft delivery devices market. Graft Delivery Devices Market: Regional Outlook On the basis of regional presence, the global Graft delivery devices market is segmented into seven key regions: North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific excluding Japan, Japan, and Middle East & Africa. Currently, North America is contributing the leading shares to the global graft delivery devices market in terms of value and anticipated to register a significant CAGR over a forecast period. APEJ is also contributing moderate shares to the market due to rising in the healthcare infrastructure and is expected to show a robust growth to the global graft delivery devices market. Europe is the most lucrative market for the graft delivery devices market. MEA is at a nascent stage to the global graft delivery devices market and anticipated to register a decent growth to the market over a forecast period. Overall, the global graft delivery devices market is expected to show significant growth over a forecast period. Graft Delivery Devices Market: Key Players Some of the major market players in Graft delivery devices market globally include Arthrex, Inc., Stryker, Medtronic, Nordson Corporation, MEDMIX SYSTEMS AG, SurGenTec, Pinnacle Spine Group, Kleiner Device Labs, LLC, Puregraft LLC and others. These companies are highly focused on the development of advanced graft delivery devices further contributing to the growth of graft delivery devices globally. Request Brochure of this Report- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=B&rep_id=576 About FactMR FactMR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market insights 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 FactMR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ Read Industry News at - https://www.industrynewsanalysis.com/ Pune, Maharashtra -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Demand for dental restorative supplies is likely to be on an upswing as several industry-specific and macroeconomic factors continue to influence the dental space. Technological advancements have not left any domain untouched with manufacturers of dental restorative supplies focusing on new innovations in their product lines, says Fact.MR report. Manufacturers of dental restorative supplies are focusing on developing and using advanced material in a bid to enhance the customer satisfaction quotient, achieving sustenance in the competitive dental restorative supplies marketplace. Fact.MR envisages that the demand for dental restorative supplies is projected to expand at a steady CAGR of 4.1% in terms of value during the period of assessment, 2018-2028. Sales of dental restorative supplies during the said period are likely to surpass US$ 6,000 Mn by end of 2028, says the report. Request Sample Report @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=1588 Sales of dental restorative supplies are likely to remain influenced with increasing investments in the dental space. This aspect is further fuelled with growing edentulous population that prefers unanchored dentures and dental cosmetic procedures. In addition, the rising oral disease burden globally is anticipated to impact the growth of the dental restorative supplies market. World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that oral disease treatments are the fourth most expensive resulting in high economic burden among low and middle class population. Distributors of dental restorative supplies are playing a major role in enhancing the visibility of dental restorative supplies across regional markets, reveals Fact.MR report. They are focused on enhancing the customer-manufacturer relationship to obtain tangible benefits and are providing information on price adjustments and changing trends. The report says that the dental restorative supplies are driven toward customers largely by distributors as most of the composite material manufacturers are small scale players. Sales of dental restorative supplies are expected to remain concentrated in the developed counties of Europe region, particularly the EU-4. Fact.MR foresees that the demand for dental restorative supplies in Europe region is largely influenced with growing cases of dental diseases, which is expected to translate into sales crossing US$ 1,800 Mn in Europe by 2028 end. The market for dental restorative supplies in Asia Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ) region is expected to be optimistic and manufacturers of dental restorative supplies can expect significant momentum in the emerging countries of China and India during the assessment period. Closely following the suit, developed countries in North America, particularly the United States, are likely to showcase notable demand for dental restorative supplies on the back of increasing occurrences of root canal in the region. Composite dental restorative supplies are estimated to witness significant demand and adoption during the period of forecast. Sales of composite dental restorative supplies are estimated to touch US$ 2,200 Mn owing to their high durability and availability in different shades suiting the aesthetic requirements of the customer. However, their post-operative sensitivity is expected to confine their scope of application in some cases. On the contrary, impression material is gaining high traction owing to rising demand for indirect restoration procedures, says the report. Browse Full Report @ https://www.factmr.com/report/1588/dental-restorative-supplies-market Demand for dental restorative supplies in dental clinics is projected to expand at a relatively robust rate throughout the period of assessment as compared to hospitals. Hospitals lack wards needed for dental restoration, which is limiting use of dental restorative supplies in the hospital sector. Future prospects of the dental restorative supplies market are expected to be bullish on account of changing customer approach toward dental aesthetics and treatment of dental caries coupled with increasing number of dental procedures worldwide. Moreover, environmental concerns associated with use of mercury in dental restorative supplies has led to the development of ceramic material and glass ionomers that deliver higher customer satisfaction in turn facilitating momentum to the adoption of dental restorative supplies. To deliver a seamless understanding of the Dental Restorative Supplies Market, the report is divided into 18 sophisticated chapters whose snapshots are provided below. Chapter 1 Executive Summary The report commences with the chapter of the executive summary which delivers brief yet affluent information of the Dental Restorative Supplies Market. The chapter includes discussion on the market overview, market analysis and market recommendations regarding the Dental Restorative Supplies Market derived based on Fact.MR's proprietary wheel of fortune. Chapter 2 Market Introduction In the market introduction chapter, the Dental Restorative Supplies Market is introduced along with the market segmentation in the form of market taxonomy. The chapter also introduces the Dental Restorative Supplies in the market definition section. You can Buy This Report from Here @ https://www.factmr.com/checkout/1588/S Chapter 3 - Dental Restorative Supplies Market Background In this chapter, macroeconomic factors, market dynamics, a complete value chain and pricing analysis with regard to Dental Restorative Supplies Market is elaborately discussed. Discussion on the market drivers, restraints, trends and opportunities and their impact on the market forecast is also covered in this chapter. Chapter 4 - Global Dental Restorative Supplies Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 20182026 This chapter provides the Dental Restorative Supplies Market size in terms of market volume and value during the forecast period. Market analysis based on absolute $ opportunity and y-o-y growth of the Dental Restorative Supplies Market is also covered in this chapter. Chapter 5 - Global Dental Restorative Supplies Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 20182026, By System Type Based on system types in the Dental Restorative Supplies Market, the chapter elaborates market size of individual systems and analysis by system types and summary of this section is covered in the chapter. Chapter 6 - Global Dental Restorative Supplies Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 20182026, By Application Based on applications, Market size of individual applications, their market attractiveness analysis and summary are also covered. Chapter 7 - Global Dental Restorative Supplies Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 20182026, By End User This chapter elaborates the segmentation of the Dental Restorative Supplies Market based on end users including independent end users, Market attractive analysis by end users is also discussed to fathom relative lucrativeness of different end users of the Dental Restorative Supplies Market. Chapter 8 - Global Dental Restorative Supplies Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 20182026, By Region With the geographical perspective, the Dental Restorative Supplies Market is analyzed on a total of seven regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, South East Asia & Pacific, Middle East & Africa, China and Japan. Historical data and prevailing trends in the Dental Restorative Supplies Market and their influence on the global market performance is discussed in this chapter. And Continue.... Northbrook, IL -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- According to the new market research report "NGS Sample Preparation Market by Product (Reagent, Workstations), Workflow (Library Preparation [DNA, RNA], Target Enrichment), Application (Infectious Disease, Cancer Diagnostics), Technology (SMRT, Nanopore) - Forecast to 2024", published by MarketsandMarkets Factors such as advancements in NGS platforms, reduced cost of sequencing, and improving reimbursement scenario for NGS-based diagnostic tests are driving the growth of this market. The reagents, and consumables segment to dominate the overall NGS Sample Preparation Market in 2018 Based on product, the NGS Sample Preparation Market is segmented into workstations and reagents & consumables. The reagents & consumables segment was further sub-segmented into library preparation, target enrichment, and quality control, on the basis of the workflow. In 2018, the reagents and consumables segment accounted for the largest share of the NGS Sample Preparation Market. Factors such as the decreasing cost of sequencing; availability of cost-efficient and advanced NGS platforms; increasing applications of NGS in different fields such as drug and biomarker discovery, diagnostics, agro-genomics, and animal research; increasing research activity involving sequencing; and the availability of research grants (that are driving the adoption of NGS) have all contributed to the growth of this market. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=69735098 Browse in-depth TOC on "NGS Sample Preparation Market" 121 Tables 40 Figures 203 Pages The diagnostics segment is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period Based on application, the NGS Sample Preparation Market is segmented into diagnostics, drug discovery, agricultural & animal research, and other applications. The diagnostics segment is estimated to grow at the highest rate during the study period owing to the growing number of new cancer cases across the globe, favorable reimbursement scenario for NGS-based tests in the US, and increasing focus of key market players on developing NGS-based products & services for cancer and NIPT. North America dominated the NGS Sample Preparation Market in 2018 Geographically, the NGS Sample Preparation Market is segmented into North America (US and Canada), Europe (Germany, France, the UK, and the Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, and the Rest of Asia Pacific), and the Rest of the World (RoW). North America accounted for the largest share of the overall NGS Sample Preparation Market in 2018 followed by Europe. The large share of North America can be attributed to the favorable initiatives by government and private bodies for the development and adoption of NGS technologies, wide adoption of NGS diagnostics in the region, increasing number of NGS-based research & clinical applications in the region, growing research on cancer, rising awareness of NGS services, and the presence of leading NGS service providers, in the region. Request Research Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=69735098 Some of the prominent players in the NGS Sample Preparation Market include Illumina Inc. (US), Thermo Fisher Scientific (US), QIAGEN N.V. (Germany), Agilent Technologies, Inc. (US), Beckman Coulter (a subsidiary of Danaher), and Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) (US) among others. 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 Genethon emphasizes its decisive role in the first gene therapy for a neuromuscular diseas On May 24, the Food and Drug Administration approved Zolgensma, a gene therapy drug for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy developed by AveXis (Novartis). Genethon, the AFM-Telethon laboratory, played a decisive role in the design of both the product and the route of administration of this first gene therapy for a neuromuscular disease, thanks to the pioneering work lead by Martine Barkats and her team. In fact, the French researcher demonstrated that a recombinant AAV9 vector made it possible to cross the blood-brain barrier and thus reaching motor neurons, whose dysfunction is responsible for spinal muscular atrophy, and that such a vector carrying the smn1 gene extended the life span of mouse models of spinal muscular atrophy. These discoveries had been the subject of patents filed as early as 2007 and scientific publications in 2009 in Molecular Therapy, and in 2011 in Human Gene Therapy. In 2018, Genethon granted AveXis a license to patents in the U.S., Europe and Japan, for the AAV9 SMN product and in vivo gene therapy delivery of AAV9 vector into the CNS using intrathecal or intravenous routes of administration for the treatment of SMA. After having played a pioneering role in the deciphering of the human genome (first maps published between 1992 and 1996), Genethon confirms, once again, its essential role in research and development of gene therapy treatments for rare diseases in the world. Eight gene therapy products, resulting from Genethon's research or developed in collaboration with partners, are currently in clinical trials in Europe and the United States for myotubular myopathy, immune deficiencies, blood diseases or vision diseases.... "The approval of this first gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy represents a major breakthrough for patients and their families. We are very pleased and proud to have made a decisive scientific contribution to the development of this treatment, thanks to the determined commitment of AFM-Telethon, donors and our researchers. This further, demonstrates Genethon's capability to develop effective first-in- class treatments and the excellence of our translational research driven by the commitment to treat patients living with rare diseases" says Frederic Revah, CEO of Genethon. ### This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. LANZHOU, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A rare moment of intimacy between a wild giant panda mother and her cub was captured earlier this year by infrared cameras in a nature reserve in northwest China's Gansu Province, the reserve said Tuesday. Two clips, with a total length of 40 seconds, showed the mother and the cub having a play fight in the Baishuijiang National Nature Reserve on March 25. "This is the first time such clear footage of a wild giant panda family has been recorded in the reserve," said He Liwen at the reserve's giant panda management office. According to He, the cub spotted in the video was about one year old. "Wild baby pandas are usually raised by the mother until two years old when they separate and go on to live a solitary life," He said. The clips were found when staff at the reserve were sorting through photos and video clips filmed earlier this year. In 2018, 700 infrared cameras were installed across the reserve, capturing 1,477 video clips and 788 pictures of wild giant pandas. Baishuijiang Nature Reserve is home to the largest number of wild pandas in China. Among the 132 wild pandas in Gansu, 110 live in the reserve. San Francisco, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Global Panic Disorders Market: Overview The increasing number of drugs in the clinical trials and the effective therapeutics available across the globe are propelling the global panic disorders market. The rising number of cases owing to the hectic lifestyle is one of the major factors boosting the cases of panic disorders. Nonetheless, with the rising focus of leading players on the expansion of the product portfolio, the market is likely to witness high growth in the next few years. Get Sample Copy of the Report @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=55 The research report on the global panic disorders market provides a comprehensive analysis, focusing on the latest trends, growth prospects, and opportunities. With the help of primary and secondary data, the research study throws light on the leading segments and regions of the global panic disorders market. Furthermore, an in-depth analysis of the competitive landscape of the global market has been presented to guide the new entrants of the market. Global Panic Disorders Market: Snapshot Panic disorders, also known as anxiety disorder deals with recurrent and unexpected panic attacks. These attacks are sudden and can affect the health of a person on a serious note if untreated. As a result, several drugs and therapeutics have been introduced in order to treat patients suffering from panic disorders across the globe. The rising demand for effective drugs and the rising awareness regarding its availability of therapeutics are anticipated to encourage the growth of the global panic disorder market in the next few years. The hectic lifestyle and the rising work pressure are some of the common causes resulting in panic disorders across the globe. The leading players in the global panic disorders market are focusing on creating an awareness among people regarding this condition and the several effects if not properly treated are expected to encourage the market's growth in the coming years. In addition, the increasing emphasis of players on development of new product and research and development activities is likely to generate lucrative and promising growth opportunities for key players operating in the global panic disorders market. The rising preference of patients on spending significantly towards healthcare expenses is expected to accelerate the growth of the market in the near future. With a substantial rise in the competitive level, the market players are expected to witness high growth. The expansion of the product portfolio and the rising demand from developed economies are anticipated to encourage the growth of the global panic disorders market in the next few years. Moreover, the marketing strategies adopted by the players and the enhancement of the distribution network are some of the important aspects expected to augment global panic disorders market in the near future. Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=55https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=55 Global Panic Disorders Market: Drivers and Restraints The rising prevalence of anxiety and mental disorders, the rising awareness regarding the disorders, and the availability of effective treatment options are some of the vital factors that are estimated to fuel the growth of the global panic disorders market throughout the forecast period. The rising initiatives being taken by the leading players to create an understanding among consumers is expected to accelerate the growth of the market in the near future. On the other hand, the lack of awareness, especially in underdeveloped and developing economies regarding the severity of these disorders if not treated is one of the key factors likely to restrict the growth of the overall market in the coming years. Nonetheless, at present, several drugs are in different phases of clinical trials, which are expected to be commercialized soon are projected to encourage the growth of the market. Global Panic Disorders Market: Region-wise Outlook Among the key regional segments, North America is predicted to lead the global panic disorders market and hold a massive share in the forecast period. The high growth of this region can be attributed to the presence of a large number of players and the growing awareness among consumers regarding the availability of effective therapeutics for panic disorders. Furthermore, Europe is expected to remain in the second position throughout the forecast period. On the other hand, Asia Pacific is projected to witness robust growth in the near future, thanks to the untapped lucrative opportunities for the key players. In addition, the rising purchasing capacity of consumers is expected to encourage the growth of the market in the next few years. India and China are anticipated to contribute significantly towards the growth of the panic disorders market in Asia Pacific. Key Players Mentioned in the Research Report are: The global market for panic disorders is highly competitive in nature, owing to the presence of a large number of players operating in it. Some of the key players in the market are H. Lundbeck A/S, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Actavis plc, Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH, Sanofi, Eli Lilly and Company, GlaxoSmithKline plc, Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc., F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Mylan, Inc., Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc., AstraZeneca plc, and Pfizer, Inc. Read Comprehensive Overview of Report @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/panic-disorders-market Highlights of the report: A detailed analysis of key segments of the market Recent developments in the market's competitive landscape Detailed analysis of market segments up to second or third level of segmentation Historical, current, and projected future valuation of the market in terms of revenue and/or volume Key business strategies adopted by influential market vendors Outline of the regulatory framework surrounding and governing numerous aspects of the market Growth opportunities in emerging and established markets Recommendations to market players to stay ahead of the competition About TMR Research: TMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in today's 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 94121 United States Tel: +1-415-520-1050 New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Diagnostic services act as a lifeblood for the entire healthcare industry. An ideal medical facility is always cushioned by a proper diagnostic infrastructure. Immediate detection of disease not only helps in reducing the life risk of the patient but it also reduces the pressure of the patients on the healthcare industry as a whole. The diagnostic market is steadily increasing around the world and it is also complimenting the growth and development of the Phlebotomy Equipments market. The need of skilled phlebotomist are immense in the market and as the numbers of healthcare facilities are soaring every single day. The Phlebotomy equipments market is directly dependent on the growth and expansion of the entire healthcare and diagnostic industry. The healthcare industry has registered a steady growth in the last few years through revamped and public friendly policies and public, private partnerships and by exposing more people to the insurance backed healthcare system. Which is directly impacting the development of the Phlebotomy Equipments market around the globe. Apart from this, the entire diagnostic industry's growth is also pushing the Phlebotomy markets spread across the globe. Request For Report Sample @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-2240 The diagnostic industry is revamping itself to meet the present challenges. The industry is consolidating and growing steadily. A massive influx of investment has eroded the entire diagnostic industry which is pushing many small and medium level players into the global arena. This is also building up the base of the phlebotomy equipments market and creating a new avenue for the Phlebotomy Equipments market globally. There is a wide variety of Phlebotomy Equipments which are present in the Phlebotomy Equipments market. The wide array of equipments which are used by technicians is personal protective equipments, torniquets, antiseptics, gauze pads, lancets, butterfly needles, sharp containers, evacuated collection tubes, centrifuge machines, blood drawing tray and much more. The compliment the rising demand of the phlebotomy equipments several new players have entered the Phlebotomy Equipments market. The manufacturers of these equipments are spread across the globe but there is a stark difference in the quality of the products which are manufactured in India, China and in western countries of the world. Phlebotomy Equipments market: Drivers The Phlebotomy Equipments market has grown by leaps and bounds and there are several pivotal factors which are influencing this growth. The first and foremost is the overall evolution of the healthcare and diagnostic market. The expansion of the market is directly effecting the demand and supply ratio and expanding the periphery and the depth of the Phlebotomy Equipments market. The Phlebotomy equipments are mostly used for detecting blood-related diseases and presently ailments like Hyperuricemia, high blood cholesterol, kidney diseases, white blood disorders have grown manifold. This sudden rise has created a massive ground of opportunity for Phlebotomy Equipments market. Countries like India, China, Malaysia and Japan are some of the emerging healthcare markets of the world which is influencing the growth of the Phlebotomy Equipments market. A massive flow of investment in the global diagnostic industry has changed the entire framework of the Phlebotomy Equipments market. It has not only encouraged new players also it has promoted new inventions in this segment. Phlebotomy Equipments market: Restraints The Phlebotomy Equipments market is completely driven by the overall development of the healthcare industry spread across the world. The development of the industry is fragmented in some parts of the world and it is dominated by the fee players based in the western markets of the world. This is adversely affecting the development of the Phlebotomy Equipments market worldwide. Phlebotomy Equipments market: Key Regions The demand of this tailor-made equipments are spread across the world. The key manufacturers and exporters are based in US and Australia, UK. On the other hand, the Asian market is largely dominated by players from India, China, Malaysia and Japan. Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-2240 Phlebotomy Equipments market: Key Players Phlebotomy Equipments are manufactured by several big and small makers spread across the world. In the US, Cardinal health is one of the major stakeholders of this segment and they are planning to plunge into the Asian market. Market Lab in the UK, BD worldwide in the US are also boosting their productions to meet the demands of the emerging Phlebotomy Equipments market. Northbrook, IL -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- The report "Protective Clothing Market by Material Type (Aramid & Blends, Polyolefin & Blends, Polyamide, and PBI), Application (Thermal, Chemical, and Visibility), End-Use Industry (Construction, Manufacturing, Oil & Gas, and Mining) - Global Forecast to 2024", The protective clothing market is projected to reach USD 11.9 billion by 2024, at a CAGR of 6.3% from USD 8.8 billion in 2019. Browse 97 market data Tables and 52 Figures spread through 170 Pages and in-depth TOC on "Protective Clothing Market - Global Forecast to 2024" Download PDF Brochure @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=1278 Stringent regulations pertaining to the safety of personnel in developed economies is expected to drive the protective clothing market. Government authorities in the developed economies are increasingly concerned over the health and safety of the workers. Many government regulations and standards compel the end-use industries to provide protective clothing to the workers working under hazardous conditions. For instance, according to the 2010 memorandum of the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), it is mandatory for the workers in the oil & gas industries to wear heat- and flame-resistant clothing. It also requires the workers at construction sites to wear high visibility safety apparels, as they are exposed to either traffic or moving machinery. The increasing demand for protective material drives the market of advanced protective clothing. Aramid & blends is the largest segment of the protective clothing market. The aramid & blends segment is estimated to lead the protective clothing market, in terms of value, in 2019. The demand for aramid & blends is fueled by the increasing use of protective clothing for industrial safety & protection. The use of aramid fibers in the military grade equipment and protective gears is increasing, thus, driving the protective clothing market growth over the forecast period. The dominance of the aramid & blends segment is attributed to its ability to provide high tensile strength and durability with thermal, chemical, and radiation resistance. Manufacturing is estimated to be the largest end-use industry segment of the protective clothing market The manufacturing segment is estimated to be the largest end-use industry of protective clothing during the forecast period. The selection of the material type for protective clothing to be used in the manufacturing industry depends on the desired application and performance. The use of such clothing helps to reduce the risk of on-job injuries and casualties. The growing infrastructural development and rising construction activities in the developing nations are likely to boost the growth of the protective clothing market during the forecast period. Speak with Analyst @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/speaktoanalystNew.asp?id=1278 North America is estimated to be the largest market for protective clothing during the forecast period. North America is the largest protective clothing market and is expected to continue dominating the global market during the forecast period. The market is largely driven by the increased awareness for safety and regulations that mandate the usage of protective clothing in various industries. Apart from the major producers, small companies are also focusing on developing advanced protective clothing that is used in making safety gloves and jackets. The market in North America is largely driven by innovation. The players in the protective clothing market are focusing on developing innovative products to widen their product portfolio and offer advanced products. The key market players profiled in the report include as 3M Company (US), E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (US), Ansell Limited (US), Kimberly Clark Corp (US), Teijin Limited (Japan), Sioen Industries (Belgium), and Lakeland Industries, Inc. (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, 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 San Francisco, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Global Radiology Information Systems Market: Overview Radiology information system (RIS) is an advanced software tool developed to manage radiological data generated in hospitals around the world. The software majorly caters to digital data collection, thereby assisting the overall healthcare information systems. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the global radiological information systems market covering the growth drivers, major restraints, segmentation based on various parameters, and the impact of the latest technological advancements. It also covers outcomes of various analyses, intended to help the readers gain a better perspective of the global radiology information systems market. Get Sample Copy of the Report @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=59 Global Radiology Information Systems Market: Snapshot A radiology information system (RIS) refers to a networked software system for managing medical images and related data. Some of the major functions of RIS include patient scheduling, tracking radiology orders, examination interpretation, billing information, and results distribution. RIS is used in conjunction with hospital information systems (HIS) and picture archiving and communication system (PACS) to manage image archives and for efficient workflow of radiology practices. A radiology information system has several advantages over antiquated paper-based record keeping for disease diagnosis and treatment. It helps staff work more accurately resulting in fewer medical errors and deliver accuracy in transcription while at the same time help professionals present a more salient diagnosis. An RIS is useful for managing image files and large data that are typically generated in a radiology practice. It helps integrate multiple functions into a single comprehensive system, thereby eliminating likelihood of redundant actions and boosting staff's efficiency at the same time. From registration to scheduling to billing to reporting results, RIS streamlines operations so that staff can better help patients. The many advantages of RIS help increase revenue due to fewer missed appointments and decreased turnaround time for reports. Moreover, several governments around the world offer incentives for physicians that use certified RIS software for generating reports. Radiology Information Systems are also important for transmitting information across service boundaries such as from the imaging unit to the patient's primary healthcare provider. As radiology information systems market over other areas of healthcare that are heading towards digitization, radiology has a high scope of innovative digitized systems. Global Radiology Information Systems Market: Trends and Opportunities The increasing costs and demand for more effective healthcare services have compelled hospitals to integrate advanced technologies for managing work force better and simultaneously delivering quicker and better patient care. Spurred by these factors, the uptake of radio information systems has significantly increased across hospitals and radiology departments. Besides this, enterprises operating in the global radiology information systems market are also gaining from the increasing incidence of chronic ailments such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases and others. In addition, the rising aging population will prove a boon as geriatric population is more prone to developing terminal illnesses. As per the findings of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, nearly 400 million medical imaging procedure are conducted annually in the U.S. A comprehensive and integrated system is thus required to manage such staggering volume of patient-related data generated yearly. Moreover, with the decentralization of hospital processes, incomplete data storage has emerged as a major concern. In order to address these concerns, the deployment of radiology information systems is expected to rise significantly. Request TOC of the Report @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=59 Global Radiology Information Systems Market: Regional Outlook Regionally, North America holds position as the most lucrative for radiology information systems market. Europe comes second to it in terms of exhibiting opportunities for radiology information systems sales. Besides this, Asia Pacific has been exhibiting attractive prospects as a result of the rising demand from countries such as China, Korea, Japan, and Malaysia. Due to the excessively high cost of medical services in the U.S., hospitals are losing businesses to their counterparts in Asia Pacific, with Malaysia, Singapore, China, India, and other countries emerging as popular destinations for medical tourism. Moreover, the prevalence of cancer across emerging nations is considerably high. According to the WHO, over 60% of new cancer cases are reported from Asia, South America, and Africa. Furthermore, these regions also show a high incidence of cardiovascular disease mortalities among the low and middle-income countries, which is a chief driver of the demand for radiology information systems. Global Radiology Information Systems Market: Vendor Landscape To study the prevailing vendor landscape, the report also profiles a few of the most prominent enterprises operating in the global radiology information system market. Using SWOT analysis, the report determines the strengths and weaknesses of the companies profiled. The analysis also helps the companies identify the opportunities and threats that they might witness over the course of the forecast period. Some of the leading enterprises operating in the global radiology information systems market are CoActiv Medical, AGFA Healthcare, FUJIFILM, Carestream Health, MERGE Healthcare, Cyglera Health Systems, Comrad, Novarad Corporation, Siemens Healthcare, and Infinitt Healthcare Co., Ltd. Highlights of the report: A detailed analysis of key segments of the market Recent developments in the market's competitive landscape Detailed analysis of market segments up to second or third level of segmentation Historical, current, and projected future valuation of the market in terms of revenue and/or volume Key business strategies adopted by influential market vendors Outline of the regulatory framework surrounding and governing numerous aspects of the market Growth opportunities in emerging and established markets Recommendations to market players to stay ahead of the competition About TMR Research: TMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in today's 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 94121 United States Tel: +1-415-520-1050 Pune, Maharashtra -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Seismic Rubber Bearing and Isolators Market: Introduction Seismic rubber bearing and isolators can reduce and limit the energy transferred from the ground to the upper structures, especially in the event of earthquake. Seismic rubber bearing and isolators are primarily used in new constructions, or enhancing existing buildings' strength and resistance to seismic forces. The advancements in using corrosion prevention materials has enhanced the growth of seismic rubber bearing and isolators market. Seismic rubber bearing and isolators helps to minimize structural damage and save lives by protecting the building during any seismic event. It is a cost-effective method to meet performance-based design requirements for minimal or repairable damage. Installing a seismic rubber bearing and isolators in a building will enhance its horizontal flexibility at the isolation layer. The seismic rubber bearing and isolators market is expected to continue its growth momentum in the forecast period globally. Get Free Exclusive Sample Copy of This Report @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=1253 Seismic Rubber Bearing and Isolators Market: Market Dynamics The seismic rubber bearing and isolators market depends upon the construction of new structures. Installing seismic rubber bearing and isolators will enhance an existing structure's strength and resistance to seismic forces. The factors such as requirement of no maintenance, no replacement after an earthquake, and no corrosion, stick-slip, wear or aging effects have driven the seismic rubber bearing and isolators market. Growing metropolitan cities, expanding business units in developing economies, stringent government regulations are estimated to drive the global seismic rubber bearing and isolators market during the forecast period. Growing number of national highway investments in developing economies in APEJ region will drive the seismic rubber bearing and isolators market. However, use of steel bearings, low awareness amongst end-users in developing economies and relatively high initial cost may hamper the growth of the global seismic rubber bearing and isolators market during the forecast period. Ask For Customized Report @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=RC&rep_id=1253 Seismic Rubber Bearing and Isolators Market: Regional Outlook: The construction industry in Middle-East and China has a major growth trend and it drives the seismic rubber bearing and isolators market. The seismic rubber bearing and isolators market in Asia is expected to grow faster in the forecast period and it will be driven by investment in countries such as India, Indonesia, and Brazil. Japan was the key market place for the growth of seismic rubber bearing and isolators market as this country is prone to earthquake. Countries which are prone to seismic activities are the key market regions for seismic rubber bearing and isolators. In addition to that, the construction of superstructure buildings and the respected regions have driven the seismic rubber bearing and isolators market in the past decade. The Chinese construction industry witnessed a major growth trend in the past decade and they have deployed pillars and supporting columns in road and sea based bridges which drives the seismic rubber bearing and isolators market. In addition to that, the export of seismic rubber bearing and isolators from China to UK, Middle-East and South East countries have supported the manufacturers from China. The manufacturers from North American and Western European countries have to meet the international standards which involves stringent regulations in manufacturing. Such factors have developed the seismic rubber bearing and isolators market. The APEJ region is expected to witness major growth during the forecast period for seismic rubber bearing and isolators market. Seismic Rubber Bearing and Isolators Market: Key Market Participants Some of the key market participants in the global seismic rubber bearing and isolators market are: mageba Bridgestone Corporation OILES CORPORATION Fip Industriale S. Brown Tensacciai S.r.l. Soletanche Freyssinet ELEMKA S.A. Chengdu Alga Engineering New Technology Development Co., Ltd ARFEN DATONG INC You can Buy This Report from Here @ https://www.factmr.com/checkout/1253/S 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. The report covers exhaust 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) Western Europe (Germany, Italy, France, U.K, Spain) Eastern Europe (Poland, Russia) Asia Pacific (India, ASEAN, Australia & New Zealand) China Japan Middle East and Africa (GCC Countries, S. Africa, Northern Africa, Turkey) 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 Read Comprehensive Overview of Report @ https://www.factmr.com/report/1253/seismic-rubber-bearing-and-isolators-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 FactMR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: www.factmr.com/ Sellbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Silver Food Market is set to grow from its current market value of more than USD 13.4 billion to over USD 18 billion by 2024; according to a new research report by Global Market Insights. Major growth driver of silver food market is the ageing population. Increasing number of populations above the age of 60 means greater usage of the product in the coming years. According to UN, the number of persons aged 80 or over was estimated to be 137 million in 2018 and is expected to triple by reaching 425 million in 2050. Get Sample Copy of this Report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/3183 Europe holds a major market share followed by Asia Pacific and North America. Asia Pacific is likely to exhibit highest gains over the forecast timeframe due to rapid economic and social development in the region coupled with improving disposable income has resulted in increased sale of silver food. For instance, annual average income of urban households in China increased from USD 637.3 in 1995 to over USD 5,425 in 2018. Rising consumer awareness regarding nutritional deficiency and consequent ailments resulting from such deficiencies has resulted in increased demand for the product globally. Another factor supporting the growth of sale in the global market is worldwide development of distribution channel. E-commerce has significantly driven the revenue in the silver food market. Availability of the product in various categories like gluten free, cholesterol friendly, low sodium etc. is likely to propel global market development in the coming years. Supplements occupy a significant market share in the overall silver food market and is likely to generate revenue exceeding USD 7 billion by 2025. Various supplements are available in the market for elderly population like supplements for iron, fatty acids, calcium, all types of vitamins, proteins, magnesium, etc. These supplements are found in the form of tablets, capsules, syrup or powder. Senior friendly food is also available in different varieties depending on factors like age, sex and specific requirements. These products ensure proper intake of essential nutrients and maintains the health of ageing population. High growth in global supplements industry will propel the market development in the study period. Online portal is a key distribution channel in the silver food market which is likely to propel at a CAGR of more than 4% in the forecast timeframe. This distribution channel enables to achieve a greater market coverage with limited cost. Products of companies like Nestle, Abbot laboratories etc. are available at various online portals. Grocery stores is another important distribution channel in the silver food market which significantly contributes to sales expansion. Europe is a key silver food market that is likely to reach around USD 6 billion by 2025. Rising percentage of population over 60 years in countries like Germany, France, Italy, Sweden, etc. will drive the demand for the product in the forecast timeframe. Rising government expenditure on health in the region will also augment product demand to meet nutritional requirements of the elderly. Inquiry of this Report @ https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/3183 Some of the global market participants include Herbalife Nutrition, Oy Karl Fazer Ab, Mom's Meals, Koninklijke DSM N.V., Arla Foods Ingredients Group P/S, Nutrisystem, Inc., Pfizer Inc. Nestle S.A., Abbott Laboratories, Roquette Freres, Sysco Corporation, etc. Product innovation by market players is likely to be a major strategy to gain competitive advantage in the silver food industry in the coming years. Selbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Tannin is used in various applications such as leather tanning, wine production, and wood adhesives among others. The leather tanning segment is expected to lead the market during the forecast period owing to increasing demand of leather from textiles and automotive industries. Leather tanning involves treating of animal skins and hides for the production of leather. Rising disposable income, high standards of living, and growing demand for leather goods drive the growth of the market. Request a sample of this premium report at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1695000/?utm_source=Releasewire.com-AN Europe accounted for the majority of the market share in 2017. The highly established wine industry majorly drives the market growth in the region. The increasing demand from the leather and automotive segment further augments the adoption of tannin. Leather is used in the automotive segment to design luxurious interiors for cars. Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period owing to increasing population, rising disposable incomes, and improving lifestyles in developing countries of this region. A significant increase in the demand for luxury leather goods, and food manufacturing industry has been registered in the region, thereby boosting the tannin market. Leading global players are expanding their presence in developing nations of China, Japan, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia to tap the growth opportunities offered by these countries. According to a new study the worldwide Tannin Market is anticipated to reach around USD 3,755 million by 2026. In 2017, the leather tanning application dominated the global market, in terms of revenue. In 2017, Europe accounted for the majority share in the global tannin market. The well-known companies profiled in the report include Forestal Mimosa Ltd., Tannin Corporation, Laffort SA, Tanac S.A., Tanin Sevnica d.d., Zhushan County Tianxin Medical & Chemical Co., Ltd., S.A. Ajinomoto OmniChem N.V., Polson Ltd., W. Ulrich GmbH, and Ever s.r.l. among others. 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. The rapid increase in the demand of tannin from leather industry majorly drives the growth of this market. Growing demand from wine industry, and increasing disposable income especially in developing regions support the market growth. The consumers are increasingly consuming alcohol owing to rising living standards, rising disposable income, and improving lifestyles. The rising demand of luxury goods, automobiles with luxurious leather interiors, clothes, and shoes is expected to drive the market during the forecast period. The growing use of tannin in applications such as healthcare, and wood adhesives would further supplement the market growth. New emerging markets, and emerging consumer demographics would provide growth opportunities for tannin market in the coming years. 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. Tannin Market Insights 3.1. Tannin ? Industry snapshot 3.2. Tannin - Ecosystem analysis 3.3. Tannin Market Dynamics 3.3.1. Tannin ? Market Forces 3.3.1.1. Tannin Market Driver Analysis 3.3.1.2. Tannin Market Restraint/Challenges analysis 3.3.1.3. Tannin Market Opportunity Analysis 3.3.2. Industry analysis - Porter's five force 3.3.2.1. Bargaining power of supplier 3.3.2.2. Bargaining power of buyer 3.3.2.3. Threat of substitute 3.3.2.4. Threat of new entrant 3.3.2.5. Degree of competition 3.3.3. Tannin Market PEST Analysis, 2017 3.3.4. Tannin Market Value Chain Analysis 3.3.5. Tannin Industry Trends 3.3.6. Competitive Ranking Analysis 4. Tannin Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Product Type 4.1. Key Findings 4.2. Hydrolysable 4.3. Non hydrolysable 4.4. Phlorotannins 5. Tannin Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Application 5.1. Key Findings 5.2. Leather Tanning 5.3. Wood Adhesives 5.4. Wine Production 5.5. Others 6. Tannin Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Region 6.1. Key Findings 6.2. North America 6.2.1. U.S. 6.2.2. Canada 6.2.3. Mexico 6.3. Europe 6.3.1. Germany 6.3.2. UK 6.3.3. France 6.3.4. Italy 6.3.5. Rest of Europe 6.4. Asia-Pacific 6.4.1. China 6.4.2. India 6.4.3. Japan 6.4.4. Rest of Asia-Pacific 6.5. Latin America 6.5.1. Brazil 6.6. Middle East & Africa 7. Company Profiles 7.1. Forestal Mimosa Ltd. 7.1.1. Overview 7.1.2. Financials 7.1.3. Product Benchmarking 7.1.4. Recent Developments Purchase Complete Report at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/securecheckout/paymenta/1695000?msfpaycode=sumsf/?utm_source=Releasewire.com-AN Related Report: U.S. Midstream Oil & Gas Equipment Market, [By Product Type (Pipe, Gas Treating & Processing Equipment, Rail Tank Cars, Compressor, Pumps, Valves, Instrumentation Equipments, Storage Tanks, Other Equipments); By Application (Gas Processing Tanks, Pipelines, LPG Facilities, Crude by Rail and Others); By Regions]: Market size & Forecast, 2018 - 2026 The U.S. midstream oil & gas equipment market is anticipated to reach USD 983.73 billion by 2026 according to a new study. Crude oil refinery industry in the U.S. has been gaining momentum rapidly since the low crude oil price era. By the end of 2017, the country hosted a total of 141 operating refineries with an overall crude distillation capacity of approximately 18.62 million barrels per calendar day and 19.80 million barrels per steam day. The refining capacity has increased 300,000 bpcd in 2017. Such increase in capacity and complexity in the country, demand for midstream equipments will increase significantly over the forecast period. https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1695229/ 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/ Sellbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Water Source Heat Pump Market report gives attention to market segmentation, market size, and forecast of 2018-2024 to help stakeholders in making a good decision for the future investments. The industry report segmented into types, application, and regions with providing production, revenue, import/export. Request for an in-depth table of contents for this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-toc/upcoming/2541 The U.S. water source heat pump market will expand on account of growing measures to curb carbon footprint coupled with government initiatives to encourage installation of heat pumps. Rising demand for space heating and cooling along with concerns over energy efficiency will propel the product penetration. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, in 2016, water heating across the residential buildings accounted for 18% of electricity consumption with 4% from commercial buildings. Water Source Heat Pump Market is set to witness strong growth on account of favorable government initiatives including clean heating & cooling programs, fiscal assistance, and emissions reduction targets to promote the renewable energy systems. For instance, the UK Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) encourages the adoption of renewable heat technologies amongst households and businesses through financial incentives. Quick financial paybacks coupled with low energy consumption will propel the water source heat pump market growth. In addition, ability to offer up to 80% less household energy utilization along with low maintenance requirements will complement the industry landscape. China water source heat pump market is set to witness strong growth on account of strengthening legislative support for clean energy systems. For instance, the Air Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan in the country, has recommended heat pumps as a clean energy space heating product to reduce GHG emissions. Furthermore, increasing efforts to replace conventional heating units including coal fired boilers, specifically across the Northern China will positively influence the product installation. Make an inquiry for purchasing this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/2541 Company profiled in this report based on Business overview, Financial data, Product landscape, Strategic outlook & SWOT analysis: - Siemens - Bosch Thermotechnology - Johnson Controls - ClimateMaster - Carrier - Mitsubishi - Colmac - Climaveneta - LG Electronics - Trane - Dimplex - Daikin - Viessmann Limited Browse Full Report @ https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/water-source-heat-pump-market Eminent participants across the water source heat pump market include Siemens, Bosch Thermotechnology, Johnson Controls, ClimateMaster, Carrier, Mitsubishi, Colmac, Climaveneta, LG Electronics, Trane, Dimplex, Daikin, and Viessmann Limited amongst others. Maharashtra, India -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2019 -- Veterinary Healthcare Market We study the Veterinary Products mainly medicines, vaccines and others. The global Veterinary Healthcare 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 Veterinary Healthcare market based on company, product type, end user and key regions. The Major Players Covered in this Report: Boehringer Ingelheim, Zoetis, Elanco Animal Health, Bayer Animal Health, Merck Animal Health, Virbac, Dechra Veterinary Products, Ceva, Vetoquinol, Meiji, Ouro Fino Saude, Animalcare Group, Parnell Get a Sample Copy of this Report @: https://www.reportsmonitor.com/request_sample/97606 Market size by Product Medicines, Vaccine, Other Market size by End User Companion Animals, Livestock Animals Global Veterinary Healthcare Market by Region: The Veterinary Healthcare market is also segmented on the basis of geography. This segmentation allows the readers to get a holistic understanding of the market. It highlights the changing nature of the economies within the geographies that are influencing the global Veterinary Healthcare market. Some of the geographical regions studied in the overall market are as follows: North America (United States, Canada and Mexico) Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy) South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia etc.) Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa) Asia-Pacific (Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Japan, Philippines, Korea, Thailand, India, Indonesia, and Australia) Competitive Market Share: The Veterinary Healthcare Market research report offers an entire evaluation of the marketplace. It does so through in-intensity qualitative insights, recorded insights, and future projections. The projections included in the report had been founded employing established research assumptions and methodologies. With the aid of doing so, the Veterinary Healthcare Market research report fills in as a storehouse of assessment and records for every aspect of the marketplace, comprising yet not limited to provincial markets, product type, application, end-users, and industry verticals. Make Enquiry & Get Discount: https://www.reportsmonitor.com/check_discount/97606 What Our Report Offers: 1.Market estimates of all the key segments, sub-segments, and the regional markets throughout the forecast period. 2.Market Trends (Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Analysis, and Key Proposals). 3.Market share appraisals for all the local and the global regional segments. 4.Strategic recommendations in key business sections in light of the market estimations. 5.Competitive analysis detailing the key growth trends and inclinations. 6.Market share and size of all the foremost industry players. 7.Strategic proposals for the new participants. 8.Company profiling with comprehensive approaches and methodologies, financials, and latest technological developments. Why You Should Buy This Report? 1.To gain an in-depth knowledge of the global market. 2.To identify the current trends and projected growth in the coming years. 3.To help industry specialists, service provider, suppliers and other shareholders align their market-centric approaches. 4.To obtain research-based industry decisions by adding weight to presentations and marketing background. 5.To gain competitive knowledge of major competitive players. Key Questions Answered In This Report: 1.What will the market size be by the end of the forecast period and what will the growth rate be? 2.What are the key industry trends? 3.What are the driving factors of this market? 4.What are the challenges to market growth? 5.Who are the key players in this market? 6.What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the leading players? 7.What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key players? Access Complete Report with TOC, Tables, and Figures with Top Boehringer Ingelheim, Zoetis, Elanco Animal Health, Bayer Animal Health, Merck Animal Health, Virbac, Dechra Veterinary Products, Ceva, Vetoquinol, Meiji, Ouro Fino Saude, Animalcare Group, Parnell Information: https://www.reportsmonitor.com/report/97606/Veterinary-Healthcare-Market In the end, Veterinary Healthcare Industry report details the major regions, market scenarios with the product price, revenue, volume, production, supply, demand, market growth rate, and forecast etc. This report also presents SWOT analysis, investment feasibility analysis, and investment return analysis. About Reports Monitor Reports Monitor is a market research and consulting company that provides syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. To help clients make informed business decisions, we offer market intelligence studies ensuring relevant and fact-based research across a range of industries including Healthcare, Technology, Chemicals, Materials, and Energy. With an intrinsic understanding of many business environments, Reports Monitor provides strategic objective insights. US should take a long, hard look in the mirror rather than blaming China "Fixating on scapegoats is apparently much easier than taking a long, hard look in the mirror," said Stephen Roach, a senior fellow at Yale University's Jackson Institute of Global Affairs in an article he recently published. Roach also pointed out that the US chattering class has it all wrong and the China bashing is more an outgrowth of domestic problems than a response to a genuine external threat, and Washington has been loose with facts, analysis, and conclusions. In 2016, the Foreign Affairs Magazine of the US called the trade war a "scapegoat". The real problem for the US "trade anxiety" is "diminished domestic opportunity and social mobility". Besides, "the economic ladder that allowed previous generations of low-skilled Americans to reach the middle class is broken." Washington should focus on actually fixing its domestic problems instead of searching for external enemies to blame them on, said Maksim Oreshkin, Russian Minister for Economic Development. As Oreshkin sees, the US provoked trade dispute to establish an imaginary overseas enemy, but the real enemy is the long-standing structural issues of its own economic policies. As the US government accuses other countries of stealing its domestic job opportunities through "unfair trade", China has become a main target of blame for being the largest source of trade deficit of the US. However, facts speak louder than words. According to data from the United Nations, China-US trade volume increased 4.4 times from 2001 to 2017, and the US unemployment rate dropped from 5.7 percent to 4.1 percent in the same period. The US has seen a rapid growth of imports from China and a steady decline of unemployment rate especially since 2009, which indicated the collapse of the US accusation on the substitute relation between commodity imports and unemployment. On the contrary, as the US manufacturing increased its imports from China by 32.4 percent in general from 2010 to 2015, the relevant job opportunities grew by 6.8 percent, according to a report issued by the Congressional Research Service in two years ago. The above figures have just proved what Stephen Roach said An insecure US is afflicted with macroeconomic imbalances of its own making and fearful of the consequences of its own retreat from global leadership." Over the recent years, the US has issued a series of documents that targeted China as a strategic competitor, including the National Security Strategy, the National Defense Strategy, and the Military and Security Developments Involving the People's Republic of China. Such move exposed the anxiety of the US strategy-wise. The US in the past months has been abusing national power to exert unreasonable pressure on Chinese technology companies including Huawei, and slowing the approvals for Chinese staff applying for senior engineer jobs at US semiconductor companies. The approval that used to be finished within only a few weeks now takes as long as six to eight months. The US, showing hegemony to other countries, is also exposing its insecurity and lack of confidence to the fullest. Even the US public believes it wont help at all for the US to seek "imaginary enemies". Diverting domestic contradictions by blaming other countries is like a sick man forcing other healthy people to take medication. Such absurd action will only make the US a "trouble maker" in the international community rather than leading to any remedy. During the trade dispute with China, the US leaders failed to create any new job for the country but placed heavier burdens on the world economy, said German magazine Der Spiegel in a recent article. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development has also cut its growth expectations for the world economy because it believes trade tensions have already slowed global growth, and will keep threatening future investment and growth. There is no such thing to ask others to pay for one's own mistakes. Instead of blaming others, the US should take a long, hard look in the mirror of itself. Its unilateral actions will only tarnish its own reputation and burn its own bridges. Chinese US ambassador reiterates balanced talks as the only answer to trade war On May 24, 2019, Ambassador Cui Tiankai had an interview with Bloomberg TVs Bloomberg Day break: Americas. (Photo from the official website of Embassy of the Peoples Republic of China in the United States of America) Chinese Ambassador to the US, Cui Tiankai, recently called the Trump administration measures against Huawei unusual, among other things. Can the US actually deprive people of the right to benefit from technology? I dont think so. Does Washington really have the interests of the American people in mind? I dont think so, either, Cui said during an exclusive interview with Bloomberg TV. Cui stressed for greater Sino-US cooperation, and refuted rumors of a potential China-US technology war. Cui questioned the US measures aimed at Huawei under the pretext of national security. He also denied suspicions that Americans have supposedly held over the Chinese tech companys status as a privately-owned entity, indicating there was no evidence of this as its been clear Huawei is a privately held company. Cui refuted rumors that a technological war was imminent between the two countries and stressed that both sides should seek greater cooperation and collaboration with one another. The term trade war is never positive, Cui explained, and added that trade is centered on the idea of mutual benefit and war is a form of mutual destruction. Such opposing concepts should never be juxtaposed to create a term or describe a situation. With trade negotiations, Cui said an agreement has yet to be reached and remains a work in progress. Cui pointed out that in May after both sides reached an agreement and issued a joint statement, it was the US who had a change of heart, and almost overnight. Communication should be based on mutual respect and benefit and carried out in a balanced fashion. Cui explained the drastic reduction in Chinas US investments was the result of the mercurial behavior of the Trump administration. He also added that further restrictions and barriers have dissuaded investors. China will do whatever is necessary to protect the legitimate interests of companies like Huawei and all Chinese in the country. The US side can wait and see, Cui said. Should things continue to move in the wrong direction, then a response could be imminent. However, if both countries can find a way to work together and head in the right direction, then things would improve. Both heads of state have provided strategic guidance for bilateral relations. And expects the two will be able to reach some sort of conclusion. Indicating that China is still willing to deal with the Trump administration, in recent years, as Cui pointed out, some progress has been achieved. China holds firmly that balanced dialogue, communication, and consultations are the only solution for the US and China. And China is still committed to that, Cui said. (Compiled by Lance Crayon and Da Hang) TOKYO, May 28 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Tuesday jointly inspected Japan's largest warship south of Tokyo at the Yokosuka-based Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. Aboard the Japanese J.S. Kaga destroyer, a helicopter carrier designed to carry submarine-hunting helicopters to distant waters, Trump, winding up his four-day state visit to Japan, made a joint speech with Abe to address some 500 Japanese and U.S. personnel inside the warship's hangar. "I want to thank my friend, and your prime minister. He's an extraordinary man, for his commitment to improving Japan's defense capabilities which also advances the security of the United States of America," Trump said. The U.S. president also thanked Japan for planning to buy more U.S.-made 5th generation F-35B stealth fighter jets. Before heading home from Japan on Tuesday afternoon, Trump will also land aboard the USS Wasp, a U.S. multipurpose amphibious assault ship, where he'll deliver a Memorial Day speech to U.S. troops. China celebrates Children's Day on June 1, but you might be surprised to know that not all countries celebrate the festival on the same date. For example, Japan has three holidays for children every year, and UNICEF celebrates World Children's Day on November 20. Let's take a look at how Children's Day is celebrated around the world. Turkey 4.23 (Photo/Xinhua) In Turkey, Children's Day takes place on April 23 and is also known as the National Sovereignty. April 23 marks the date of the First Grand National Assembly, which declared the sovereignty of the Turkish people in 1920. On April 23, 1924, Ataturk, founder of the Republic of Turkey and its first President, decided to celebrate the date as a holiday. Five years later, on April 23, 1929, Ataturk gave this holiday to the children. April 23 is an important occasion for younger generations in Turkey to learn about their history and to raise awareness of Turkey's road to independence. On this day, Turkish children send representatives they have elected to replace state officials and high-ranking civil servants in their offices. The President, the Prime Minister, the cabinet ministers and provincial governors all turn over their positions to these new representatives. These children, in turn, sign executive orders relating to educational and environmental policies. Apart from playing the roles of policy-makers, children from other countries are also invited to Turkey to celebrate the holiday together with Turkish children, bringing an international element to this national holiday. This was the main message conveyed during the first day of the 5th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum that opened Tuesday at Domotel Kastri Conference Centre in Athens, where ministers, representatives of international cruise associations, cruise lines, destination authorities and decision-makers gathered to debate the state of the industry and share their views and insights on the trends shaping sea tourism in the southeast Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Greece at a crossroads 'Greece is at a crossroads of the cruise sectors development trajectory and the ongoing privatization of the countrys ports is constantly opening new bespoke investment opportunities for industry players from around the globe with the intent and vision to further develop and enhance their offering for the benefit of cruise passengers,' said Fotis Kouvelis, minister of maritime affairs and insular policy. 'Greece will move ahead with concessions regarding port-specific sectors including terminals and we are inviting international cruise lines and port operators to identify the investment opportunities matching their specific interests.' Greece accounts for 10% of the Mediterranean regions port calls, a significant number globally considering that the region is second only to the Caribbean in terms of fleet deployment. And, according to Airam Diaz Pastor, president of MedCruise, the country and the East Med region in general are set to benefit from a 22.2% increase in passenger numbers and 19.8% growth in port calls projected for the entire Mediterranean in 2019. 'The region is seeing a golden age in terms of growth and the planned deployment of some 25 new luxury ships that are coming to the market soon will provide a fresh impetus giving smaller ports the opportunity to offer something different,' he added. Med market leader MSC still cautious on Turkey, Egypt MSC, the biggest cruise line in the Mediterranean with 15.07% of the market, is also bullish on the prospects of the Eastern Mediterranean as a cruise destination where it plans to increase capacity by 25%. 'We really like this region with its natural beauty, its diverse culture and rich historical attractions, yet we still remain conscious of certain geopolitical challenges that will keep us away from the Turkish market for now. We are actively considering Turkey and Egypt for our potential return in the future,' said Bud Darr, EVP maritime policy and government affairs, MSC Group. 'The lack of political stability in the wider region, with its geopolitical hot spots of Northern Africa and elsewhere, remain an obstacle to us believing we are ready to operate there. We are still not convinced that it would be responsible for us to take our passengers in some of those locations. Beyond our views, you also have to win the hearts and minds of tourists whose confidence was broken due to events in the region.' Safety/security top priority for Cyprus tourism Safety and security are key issues also for Cyprus, having lost 85% of cruise passengers since 2010 in spite of a significant uplift in the number of tourists visiting the island. But as the Tourism Deputy Minister for Cyprus Savvas Perdios said during his Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum keynote speech, the island nation is eyeing a larger share of the market. 'Cyprus is ready to pull its weight since we launched a ministry dedicated to our tourism industry five months ago. We have pinpointed safety and security as our number one priority for the growth of our tourism product and earmarked the cruise sector as a top ten strategic pillars in our 2030 strategy.' Emerging market trends Tom Broadley, secretary general, CLIA Europe, gave a different sort of a top 10 list, describing the emerging trends likely to shape the future of the cruise industry globally. Highlights include the aptly dubbed 'Instagrammable cruising,' which helps spread awareness about this holiday alternative, 'achievement over axperience,' where passengers seek to learn a new skill like cooking or dancing during their cruise, and 'conscious travel,' with passengers mindful of the environmental impact caused by cruise ships and dictates the ways they interact with the communities at the destinations they visit. Other topics tabled during the Forum include the prospects for cruising in the East Med, partnerships between ships, ports and destinations for sustainable tourism, the regions potential to offer year-round cruise products and the overall impact from the dramatic growth of mainstream cruise ship sizes. The Forum is being attended by 200 delegates including senior executives from MSC Cruises, Carnival Group, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Holland America Group, Silversea Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Fred. Olsen Cruise Line and Celestyal Cruises, and representatives of regional ports and destinations. Forum organisers/sponsors The 5th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum is organised under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy and is supported by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, CLIA Europe, the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports, the Hellenic Professional Yacht Owners Association, the Greek Marinas Association, the Association of Passenger Shipping Companies, the Union of Cruise Ship Owners & Associated Members, the Federation of Hellenic Associations of Tourist and Travel Agencies. Gold Sponsor is the Greek National Tourism Organisation. Silver sponsors are the Piraeus Port Authority, HEMEXPO and the Thessaloniki Port Authority, Bronze Sponsors are Air FranceKLM, Aktina Travel Group, Celestyal Cruises, Global Ports Holding and Intercruises Shoreside and Port Services and supporters are the Athens International Airport and FBIS Security. The transhipment operation took place 24 25 May using a suezmax class vessel, with the mooring of the vessels Henrique Dias (exporter) and Brazil 2014 (reliever), per the two year-contract signed with the state company in March this year. T-OIL is a joint venture of Prumo Logistica and Oiltanking. Read more: Petrobras and Acu Petroleo to carry out ship-to-ship operations in Port of Acu "To date, Petrobras has been operating in Brazil only at its own terminals in Angra dos Reis and Sao Sebastiao, for oil exports. We are the first private terminal in the country to carry out operations for the oil company and this is a source of great pride for Acu Petroleo, said Victor Snabaitis Bomfim, president of Acu Petroleum. Our differentiating factors, such as the strategic location, close to the Santos and Campos basins and the capacity to receive VLCC-class vessels and transhipment in a sheltered area, were decisive in establishing this new and promising partnership," he added. T-OIL is the only private Brazilian terminal with capacity to receive ships of the VLCC class, with a storage capacity of up to 2m tonnes of oil per day, with a capacity of 25 metres and licensed to move up to 1.2m barrels of crude oil per day. Oiltanking performs the transhipment operation in an area sheltered by breakwaters, allowing a reliable and safe operation. A staff works near a China Railway Express cargo train in southwest China's Chongqing, Jan. 25, 2019. (Xinhua/Tang Yi) CHONGQING, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A freight train loaded with auto parts and electronic products departed from a railway station in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality Monday, marking 1,000 train trips recorded on the land-sea freight route. The land-sea freight route is 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 these China-made goods is scheduled to arrive at the Beibu Gulf in Guangxi, where it will transfer by sea to some southeast Asian countries. The operation time is much shorter than that of the traditional eastern sea route. Since its official opening on Sept. 25, 2017, the freight train services on the land-sea freight route have been changed from the original monthly train to today's daily train, with the frequency increased by more than 40 times, and additional and special train service can be arranged according to customers' needs. By the end of March, the land-sea freight route had seen 901 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. Lithium resources in the Taupo volcanic zone are potentially economic but may require conventional open-cast mining techniques if they are to be developed, delegates at the New Zealand Minerals Forum heard. The presence of lithium a core element in electric vehicle batteries - in local geothermal brine has long been understood. But studies by government-owned GNS Science show it is also present in the broader basin. Reviewing existing data, including almost 200 core samples from geothermal wells and drilling from epithermal gold exploration, the study identified 31 sites where lithium was present at more than 200 parts per million, with the high of 3,500 ppm reported at Ohaaki. Lithium previously hadnt been identified at more than 450 ppm in New Zealand. That really clearly demonstrates that we do have economic grades in the Taupo volcanic zone for Lithium, Rob Smillie, earth resources and materials manager at GNS, told the forum in Dunedin yesterday. Its a really big finding for us. GNS and New Zealand Petroleum & Minerals have been looking harder at the countrys minerals endowment to better understand the potential to develop so called green minerals - including lithium and cobalt - increasingly in demand for batteries, high-performance metals and other new technologies. Smillie said that with the push toward renewables and other low-emission technologies, New Zealand needs to decide whether it is better to develop its own minerals to make that happen, import the technology, or import the minerals from places like the Congo. The World Bank is projecting an almost 10-fold increase in lithium demand by 2050 on the back of greater electrification of transport and the use of batteries and solar. The worlds lightest metal is highly reactive, and is also an important treatment for depression. It sells for about US$20,000 a tonne, having jumped to about US$30,000 in 2015. More than 40 percent of the worlds lithium is extracted from brines in South America, particular in Chile. The next largest supplier is Australia, where it tends to be mined from hard rock. The US, which declared lithium a critical mineral in 2017, is developing its own resources. The largest is in Thacker Pass in Nevada where historic volcanic activity has built up high concentrations - more than 2,000 PPM - of lithium in thick claystones. Smillie said investigations of lithium in geothermal brine remains an important area of research for New Zealand. But GNS suspects the elevated levels of lithium it has discovered around the Wairakei, Tauhara, Ngatamariki and Ohaaki geothermal fields may have been laid down in a similar process to that in Nevada. A lot more work will be needed to understand the areas minerology and where potential deposits may be hosted, Smillie said. And he noted that at the relatively lower grades seen locally, large, open cast mining could be required to extract it. (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. 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Related News: Harmoney Corp Limited (NZX: HMY) HMY Signs A$20m Corporate Debt Facility 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 The Treasury is investigating the leak of spending decisions relating to 18 of the government's 40 departments and agencies in what appears to be the largest breach of Budget secrecy since the entire Budget was leaked in 1986. Coming two days ahead of the government's showpiece first 'well-being Budget', the leak is at least the third leak of substantially accurate information by National Party leader Simon Bridges this year. Earlier this month, he leaked accurate details of the proposals for a cannabis referendum just before the government was due to announce Cabinet decisions, and in January the broad details of the government's tri-partite working group on employment law reform were released by Bridges. In September last year, details of a report into an alleged assault on a staff member by former Cabinet minister Meka Whaitiri also made its way via Bridges to the media. Finance Minister Grant Robertson sought to shrug off the leaks, saying "some of it's right and some of it's wrong" and that he would release "the real Budget" on Thursday. He was focused on that event rather than identifying the source of the leak immediately and would not be drawn on whether the government was becoming concerned by a growing pattern of accurate leaks to the Opposition on sensitive political matters. His own office remained in pre-Budget lockdown today, but he had spoken to his economic advisory agency, the Treasury, which had already initiated investigations into its own processes. "Right now were conducting our own review of these reports and the information that has been published," said Treasury Secretary Gabriel Makhlouf. "As far as the Treasury is concerned, the release of Budget 2019 will proceed as planned this Thursday," he said. Robertson made it clear that the form in which the figures were released differs from the form in which they are prepared for use by officials or Cabinet, suggesting National may have access to original documents that it has taken extracts from to protect the leaker's identity. He could not rule out the possibility that there would be more leaks before Thursday, 2pm, when the Budget will become public. None of the spending figures released today give any hints on the scale of what is expected to be the Budget's biggest announcement - a package of measures to improve mental health services. The government is taking two bites at that cherry this week, releasing its responses in principle tomorrow to recommendations from a mental health inquiry undertaken last year and the substantive spending on new mental health initiatives in the Budget itself. Bridges sought to use the figures he'd obtained to highlight what he claimed were a substantial increase in defence and forestry spending and a relatively small $744 million package for district health board funding. Outlaying "$1.3 billion for the purchase of assets in Vote Defence Force in 2019/2020, up from $641 million last year ... has nothing to do with the governments well-being priorities," said Bridges. "It shows the Prime Minister has yet again had to throw her principles out the window to buy off Winston (Peters, leader of her coalition partner, the New Zealand First party)." The last politically damaging Budget leak was in 2006 when the then Helen Clark Labour government's plans to re-regulate parts of the telecommunications sector were judged to harm its poll ratings at a time when John Key had yet to become leader of the National Party. In 1986, this reporter, then a junior press secretary to Finance Minister Roger Douglas, arranged for copies of the Budget to be couriered to a range of prominent New Zealanders judged to be 'opinion-formers', in appalling ignorance of the fact that the Budget was a document to which a rare degree of pre-release secrecy has always been attached. Douglas's offer to resign over the leak was rejected at the time by then Prime Minister David Lange and the issue prompted an inquiry by the head of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. In recent years, governments have increasingly used pre-Budget announcements to maximise publicity for decisions that it expects to be politically popular. A range of social spending initiatives have been announced prior to this Thursday's Budget, the first to be written under an evolving 'well-being' framework. (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: Harmoney Corp Limited (NZX: HMY) HMY Signs A$20m Corporate Debt Facility 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 The Reserve Bank has imposed new conditions of registration on ANZ Bank requiring it to hold more capital against housing and farm lending from June 30. In its latest Financial Stability Report, the central bank says it has set minimum risk weights for ANZ, New Zealands largest bank, on the two lending categories. Risk weights measure the riskiness of loans within a portfolio and determine capital requirements, RBNZ says. Minimum risk weights for ANZ were set following the conclusions of the Reserve Banks benchmarking project. This project assessed the conservatism of housing and rural credit risk models used by banks accredited to model their own credit risk capital requirements, it says. Only the four major banks, which are all owned by Australias major four banks, are allowed to use their own internal models to calculate capital. In February, RBNZ revealed that the advantage ANZ gains from using internal models meant ANZ was only required to hold slightly more than half the capital that the government-owned Kiwibank needs to back each $100 of mortgage lending. Kiwibank, along with all the New Zealand-owned banks, is required to use standardised models. The latest restrictions on ANZ follow RBNZs announcement earlier this week that ANZ was going to have to use the standardised model to calculate operational risk capital (ORC) from now on because it had been using an unapproved ORC model since December 2014. The ORC model is one of about 45 internal models ANZ uses. (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: Harmoney Corp Limited (NZX: HMY) HMY Signs A$20m Corporate Debt Facility 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 The Reserve Bank sat on the knowledge that ANZ Bank was using an unapproved model for calculating capital for nearly three years before censuring New Zealands largest bank earlier this month. The central bank had suspended approval of the four major banks internal capital models in 2016, according to the ANZ. However, in late 2017 the central bank was still talking as if it was continuing to approve those models. ANZs latest disclosure statement for its New Zealand subsidiary says that: In 2016, RBNZ suspended approval of capital models. The Reserve Bank has confirmed this. "Internal models banks were advised in 2016 that, due to resourcing priorities, the Reserve Bank would no longer be accepting requests for non-priority model changes," RBNZ says. "They were reminded of the requirement to continue using only existing Reserve Bank-approved models. This directive remains in place." The big four Australian-owned banks are the only ones in New Zealand allowed to use their own internal models for calculating capital; the other banks have to use standardised models. This gives the big four a significant competitive advantage by lowering their costs. RBNZ illustrated that in February when it said that ANZ must hold slightly more than half the capital the government-owned Kiwibank has to hold to back each $100 worth of mortgages. On May 17 this year, RBNZ publicly censured ANZ for failing to get the operational risk capital (ORC) model it had been using since December 2014 approved. RBNZ said ANZ would have to switch to using the standardised model for that particular calculation. The central bank didnt say that ANZ is continuing to use more than 44 other internal models for everything else, presumably with the central banks approval. ANZs disclosure statement says that the offending ORC model was approved by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority in September 2015 and subsequently submitted to RBNZ for approval in June 2016. In mid-November 2017, RBNZ had censured Westpac for a similar but much bigger failure: it had been using 17 unapproved models out of a total of 35 from as long ago as 2008. Westpac was ordered to boost its capital by about $1 billion above its June 2017 levels, something it had already done in September of that year. At a media briefing two weeks later on Nov. 29, 2017, the then acting Reserve Bank governor Grant Spencer said that the other three major banks, ANZ, ASB Bank and Bank of New Zealand, were compliant and had received approval for all their internal models. Weve been approving models of the four IRB (internal ratings-based) banks, which are the four majors, Spencer said at that media conference. Theres been the issue with Westpac which Geoff (Bascand, deputy governor) might elaborate on but the others are getting their models approved and we dont have issues with those, he said. We have been checking and were confident that theres no repeat of the Westpac issue with the other three banks. People within the banks had said then that the Reserve Bank had been taking up to 18 months to approve individual models or changes to models. Asked whether the RBNZ was certain that the other three banks were compliant, Bascand said that in terms of the other banks, we dont have cause for suspicion. Were encouraged that some of them are looking at their own compliance levels and are undertaking what should be their own due diligence and attestation about their compliance. At that point, RBNZ had been sitting on ANZs application for approval of the ORC model for 17 months. Spencer added that RBNZ recognised there was an obvious question about why it had taken so long to identify the Westpac issues. We did revamp our approach to approving internal models back in 2014 where we required a compendium, an actual file, where all these models are, so we know which ones are approved and which ones arent, Spencer said. So that process was toughened up in 2014 and we think that is working better now, he said. Nevertheless, the central bank was going to have another look to ensure any non-compliance was picked up at an earlier stage, Spencer said then. ANZ had clearly been using an unapproved ORC model since December 2014, 18 months before it asked for approval, and its disclosure statement explains how that happened. ORC was calculated for the bank by the ultimate parent bank. A failure of systems and controls, as well as no verification being undertaken by the bank, meant that the ultimate parent bank decommissioned the RBNZ-approved model without the bank ensuring that it had the necessary regulatory approvals in place to move to a new model, it says. Calculation of the ORC requirement since December 2014 was based on a previous RBNZ approved ORC model output last run in September 2014, with an adjustment to reflect the growth of the banking groups business. The bank accepts that this was not in compliance with condition of registration 1B. (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: Harmoney Corp Limited (NZX: HMY) HMY Signs A$20m Corporate Debt Facility 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 Advent Gold has deferred plans for an initial share offer on the ASX following the governments rejection of a land sale for a new tailings operation at OceanaGolds Waihi mine. The firm, which has an exploration permit near Reefton and has applied for another at Carrick in Central Otago, had been aiming to complete a listing by August. But chief executive Adam McKay told delegates at the New Zealand Minerals Forum yesterday the listing had been deferred by at least a year while the political uncertainty created by the Waihi decision was resolved. In notes for his presentation, McKay said the adverse decision to deny Overseas Investment Office approval for the land purchase meant New Zealand was no longer considered an attractive jurisdiction for exploration and mining and that would make it harder to raise capital. Those risks would undoubtedly stabilise within the next 12 months as the governments views on mining are clarified. In the meantime, he said the company would continue its work re-analysing data across the former mine workings in its 2,423-hectare permit at Reefton, and may still be able to drill its priority targets by the end of the year. The mining industry was shocked earlier this month when Land Information Minister and Green Party MP Eugenie Sage rejected OceanaGolds planned purchase of 178 hectares of farmland for a future tailings operation. While Associate Finance Minister David Clark approved the sale, Sage saw no economic benefit from extending the life of the regions biggest employer and said it would increase emissions. Nor was she convinced the Resource Management Act would protect internationally regarded wetlands from any potential adverse impacts of mine expansion or the tailings development. The split decision the first since the act came into force in 2005 meant the application was declined. Earlier in the conference, Economic Development Minister and Attorney-General David Parker said he was unable to comment on Sages decision given it was likely to end up before the courts. Advents McKay said the company will use the delay to accelerate its work on new low-impact mining techniques. It is working with Australias CSIRO on in-situ gold recovery using chemicals to extract the metal from its host rock. McKay said the technique is widely used recovering uranium and copper from sandstone deposits but a safe chemical solution for gold extraction has only recently been found. The process could work well at Reefton, either as a surface-based operation using pumps, or in conjunction with conventional bulk mining. McKay said that, at this stage, the resource at Reefton looks suitable in terms of porosity, given its hosted in sandstone, and there are large, disseminated gold resources between the higher-grade lodes that were mined in the area in the past. Were quite excited about investigating this technology but its not going to happen overnight. Theres a lot of studies that need to be done. Were just getting stuck into it now. (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: Harmoney Corp Limited (NZX: HMY) HMY Signs A$20m Corporate Debt Facility 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 Domestic markets were mixed on Monday, with the benchmark southern index rising but the northern one falling due to the continued uncertainty of regional and world markets. The VN-Index on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange increased 0.53 per cent to close at 975.14 points. The index lost a total of 0.66 per cent last week. The HNX-Index on the Ha Noi Stock Exchange dropped 0.33 per cent to end at 105.04 points. More than 138 million shares were traded on the two local exchanges, worth VN3.4 trillion (US$146 million). Worries about the US-China trade war continued to cast a shadow over global markets. Investors feared the escalation of the trade war would dampen global trade and the trade conflict would turn into a technology cold war, Reuters said. Asian stocks lingered near four-month lows on Monday. Chinese shares started Monday higher but then slumped, with the benchmark Shanghai Composite dropping by 0.3 per cent and the blue-chip CSI 300 falling 0.6 per cent. Hong Kong's Hang Seng declined 0.5 per cent. Vietnamese large-caps saw wide divergence among stock groups. Masan Group (MSN), dairy firm Vinamilk (VNM), brewery Sabeco (SAB), Vietjet Air (VJC), HDBank (HDB) and Vietcombank (VCB) gained to support the VN-Index with MSN up by 1.4 per cent, VNM 2.7 per cent, SAB 1.5 per cent, VJC 0.5 per cent, HDB 1.7 per cent and VCB 1.4 per cent. Bao Viet Holdings (BVH), Coteccons Construction Joint Stock Company (CTD) and Phu Nhuan Jewelry Joint Stock Company (PNJ) all declined, limiting the market's gains. BVH fell 1.2 per cent. CTD decreased 1.04 per cent and PNJ fell 1.4 per cent. Several oil and gas stocks increased such as PetroVietnam Drilling and Well Services Corporation (PVD), PetroVietnam Gas JSC (GAS) and Petrovietnam Transportation Corporation (PVT). Sectors that increased included logistics, oil and gas, seafood processing, banking, real estate and food and beverages. The agriculture, insurance, securities, construction and construction materials sectors reported losses. According to Bao Viet Securities Company (BVSC), the VN-Index is expected to alternate between ups and downs in upcoming sessions. After last weeks decline, the VN-Index might sit between 965 and 993 points in the short run, before sending signals to indicate what it will do next," BVSC said. "The market may recover in early sessions of the week then decline to the 960-965 support zone in the remaining sessions." Cash inflows are expected to be spread out this week among textiles, real estate, industrial parks, rubber, information technology and electricity. As the market is expected to remain flat in the short term, stock exposure should be limited at a maximum of 50 per cent of an investor's portfolio, BVSC recommended. Investors with high cash proportion should buy stocks at their support zones. VNS In May 2018, A. Lange & Sohne had the 1815 Homage to Walter Lange in steel, which is a one-of-a-kind piece, auctioned off for the benefit of the aid organisation Children Action. In Geneva, Wilhelm Schmid spoke with Professor Andre Kaelin about the foundations work. A. Lange & Sohne At last years Phillips spring auction in Geneva, the 1815 Homage to Walter Lange, manufactured only once with a steel case, was sold for more than 700,000 euros. It was the highest auction result ever achieved for an A. Lange & Sohne wristwatch. The entire sale proceeds were donated by A. Lange & Sohne to the foundation Children Action in honour of Walter Lange, the founder of the company who died in 2017. The aid organisation is committed to the physical and emotional well-being of disadvantaged children and adolescents all over the world. Almost a year after the auction, Lange CEO Wilhelm Schmid met with surgeon Professor Andre Kaelin, who works for Children Action, at Clinique de Grangettes in Geneva to talk to him about the foundations current work. Professor Kaelin, how long have you been involved in Children Action, and what is the focus of your work? Children Action has been involved in childrens health for 25 years, and I have been participating in the surgical projects for more than 20 years. The medical care extends to various specialist areas such as orthopaedics and reconstructive surgery. Our goal is to improve the health of children in the countries in which we are active in a sustained manner. That is why our programmes are not only about medical care, but also about training medical staff in the various countries, counselling, education and nutrition. In which countries are you active? Our first mission took us to Vietnam. In the 1990s, there were only a few specialists for paediatrics and orthopaedics there. We gave lectures almost daily. In the meantime, the situation has improved considerably. Projects in Myanmar and Cameroon followed. Additional programmes are also running in Peru and Argentina. How often do you or other doctors travel to these countries on behalf of Children Action? Children Action organises about 25 surgical missions per year, involving a team of more than 40 European medical specialists. A mission, combining surgery and training, lasts on average nine days and involves at least two experienced surgeons accompanied by anaesthetists or rehabilitation doctors, depending on the needs. Can you give me an idea of the magnitude of such a mission? We examine between 100 and 200 children in a week. And a two-person surgical team can perform between 20 and 40 operations. The number depends on the complexity of each operation. A. Lange & Sohne You do not only treat children in cities, but also in rural areas. What do you do about medical care in those regions? Thats right, we also go to the provinces. In cooperation with the local health authorities, we invite the children to visit us so that we can examine them on the spot. Our approach is always multi-staged. I believe that one of the great advantages of our programme is that we only work with doctors who have many years of professional experience. Later, this surgeon also decides which patients are likely to be treated successfully. The structured and careful selection process forms the basis of our work because we do not want to give false hope to people. Finally, after the surgery, we check whether the medical situation has improved. Evaluation and the monitoring of success play an important role for us so that we can continue to improve the quality of our work. The first human right is the right to have a childhood this basic idea runs through all Children Action projects. Lange CEO Wilhelm Schmid says: We are very pleased that we were able to make a contribution to the important work of Children Action with our auction, in the spirit of Walter Lange. There are a number of significant horological celebrations this year, with 50 years of the Zenith El Primero (and therefore the first automatic chronograph movement), 50 years of the TAG Heuer Monaco and tangentially 50 years since the first lunar landing, which propelled the Omega Speedmaster to stardom. All of these events have been woven into the famous storytelling by these brands in 2019. But there was another milestone in watchmaking in 1969, to put it mildly. It was one that, in a very short space of time, would bring the traditional Swiss mechanical watch industry to its knees. Astron, 1969 Seiko On 25th December 1969 Seiko presented its Astron quartz movement to the world. The news was no major surprise in itself, since Seiko had been submitting quartz movements to observatory competitions for a number of years. So had a consortium of Swiss brands. What made the difference, however, is that Seiko was ready to fully embrace this new technology, whereas the Swiss watch industry was bogged down with its own traditions. The Astron brought accuracy to within -5/+5 seconds per month to the world of watchmaking. The significance is hard to overstate, since the chronometer norms at the time were not yet those of the COSC (which was not established until 1973) but of the individual bureaux officiels (official offices) that certified chronometers. The standard at the time required accuracy of -1/+10 seconds per day; from 1973 the COSC required -4/+6 seconds per day. And here was Seiko that could guarantee the same variation, but for an entire month! With the launch of the Seiko Astron GPS Solar seven years ago, even those impressive figures from 1969 started to look quaint. Thanks to the GPS satellite network, the GPS Solar calibres offer an accuracy of one second in every 100,000 years! This is hardly something you are likely to notice if you check your watch regularly. But even if you did it wouldnt matter, because the watch connects to the GPS network twice a day to correct itself automatically. Astron GPS Solar SSH019, SSH021, SSH024 Seiko To celebrate the 50th anniversary of this legendary calibre, Seiko introduces a new movement in the GPS Solar 5X series. The 5X53 Dual Time movement adjusts to a change in time zone at the touch of a button using a high-speed time zone adjustment function that spins the hour, minute and seconds hands to the correct positions independently. The 5X53 can automatically determine 39 recognised time zones and a time transfer function also allows the wearer to switch instantly between local time and home time. Astron GPS Solar SSH023 Seiko The flagship model in the collection of four watches presented with this new calibre is the limited-edition reference SSH023 in stainless steel with Seikos super hard black coating and a ceramic bezel. Only 1,500 units of this reference will be available, priced at 2,600 in Europe. The other models will retail for 2,000 and come in stainless steel with a black or dark-blue dial or rose-gold coated steel with black dial and a black rubber strap. They will be available in stores from September 2019. Train and plane manufacturer Bombardier said it has been selected to carry out a 3 billion-euro ($3.36 billion) monorail project in Egypt that will run from the capital Cairo to the eastern and western outskirts. "Bombardier Transportation has been named preferred bidder to build and supply a new monorail system in Cairo," the company said on Monday in a statement on its official website. It added that the bid win is subject to final confirmation and a contract has yet to be signed with the Egyptian government. The potential value of the bid includes $1.3 billion to design and build the two monorails, as well as another $1.2 billion 30-year operations and maintenance deal, the company said. The project will be carried out by a Bombardier-led consortium that also comprises Egyptian construction firms Arab Contractors and Orascom Construction. It involves building a 54-kilometere monorail system connecting east Cairo with the New Administrative Capital and another 42-kilometere line connecting 6 October City with Giza. The Canada-based company said the rolling stock part of the order will be developed and built in Derby, UK. The New Administrative Capital is currently under construction east of Cairo at a price tag of $45 billion. The project is one of a number of national development projects being carried out by the Egyptian government with a view of improving infrastructure and creating job opportunities. Search Keywords: Short link: RTHK: Taliban says it wants peace Senior Taliban officials including the group's top political advisor met with Afghan political figures in Moscow on Tuesday, saying they were committed to peace in Afghanistan -- even as US-led talks appear to have stalled. In a message the Taliban have not altered since talks with the US started last autumn, Taliban co-founder and political leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said the insurgents want an end to 18 years of conflict -- but would only sign a deal after foreign forces quit Afghanistan. The Taliban are "really committed to peace, but think the obstacle for peace should be removed first", Baradar said in a rare televised appearance at the start of the two-day meeting marking 100 years of diplomatic ties between Russia and Afghanistan. "The obstacle is the occupation of Afghanistan, and that should end," Baradar added. Baradar -- who helped Mullah Omar found the Taliban -- was appointed its political chief in January following his release from a Pakistan prison. Tuesday's Moscow meeting once again cut out senior members of President Ashraf Ghani's government, which the Taliban consider a US-backed puppet regime, though the head of the Kabul administration's high peace council had been slated to attend. Other Afghan politicians -- including former president Hamid Karzai and candidates challenging Ghani in a presidential election slated for September -- were also present. The talks mark the second time Taliban leaders have met with Afghan figures in Russia, following a February summit that saw the former foes praying together and chatting over meals. Former warlord Atta Muhammad Noor said the previous Moscow meeting had yielded "quite positive results". "We are for having good relations with our brothers, with the Taliban," Noor said. "Let's step back a little, embrace each other and create conditions for the start of peace". Moscow appears to be gaining influence in the ongoing process, with the US announcing last month that Washington had reached a consensus with China and Russia on the key formula for a peace deal it is negotiating in Afghanistan. But a recent sixth round of talks between US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and the Taliban ended in Doha this month with no tangible progress cited by the negotiating teams. While the Taliban insist foreign forces must leave Afghanistan before it can agree to peace, the US has refused to agree to a withdrawal until the Taliban put in place security guarantees, a ceasefire, and other commitments including an "intra-Afghan" dialogue with the Kabul government and other Afghan representatives. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who opened Tuesday's meeting, said Russia and Afghanistan have "a shared aim -- fighting terrorism" and reiterated that Moscow supports a complete withdrawal of foreign forces. The Soviet Union and Afghanistan fought a war in the 1980s that resulted in a Moscow's withdrawal after nine years of brutal conflict. (AFP) This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. The summit will be jointly chaired by President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, the current chair of the African Union, and Russian President Vladimir Putin The Russian city of Sochi will host the first Russia-Africa Summit in October, Egypt's foreign ministry announced on Tuesday. The summit will be jointly chaired by Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, the current chair of the African Union (AU), and Russian President Vladimir Putin, a ministry statement said. The summit will bring together all of Africa's heads of state and the heads of major regional organisations. It will focus on the horizons for relations between Russia and African countries, and how to foster political, economic, artistic and cultural cooperation between them. The agenda will also address other joint efforts to face evolving challenges and threats, in addition to ways to boost regional stability, the statement read. The summit is expected to adopt a political declaration about the main fields of cooperation between Russia and African countries. El-Sisi and Putin will also inaugurate an economic forum in Russia on 23 October, with the participation of African and Russian officials, and representatives of major corporations. The statement said that the forum would conclude in the signing of a number of important commercial, economic and investment deals. Search Keywords: Short link: Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry discussed recent regional developments with US counterpart Mike Pompeo on Tuesday in a telephone call, the Egyptian foreign ministry said in a statement. The two officials discussed recent developments in Libya and the Gulf region. The statement added that Shoukry and Pompeo discussed ways to boost Egyptian-US bilateral relations. The two diplomats agreed to continue consultation and coordination on regional issues of mutual interest. Search Keywords: Short link: 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. 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In statements to MENA Tuesday, he said some politicized organizations seek to tarnish the image of Egypt and its army through fabricating such reports. According to El-Refaie, the armed forces takes into consideration international standards regarding human rights on protecting civilians during the operations and conducting airstrikes outside residential areas. He said the establishment of a buffer zone on the border belt took place in line with cabinet resolution No. 1008 of 2015, adding those who were harmed by the decision were compensated and received housing units. The spokesman asserted that the armed forces has supported the development process in Sinai, supervising 312 projects in various domains to improve the living conditions and provide job opportunities for North Sinai residents. He asserted that the armed forces Manged to destroy the infrastructure of terror groups, restore life to normal and provide security and social peace to North Sinai citizens. Search Keywords: Short link: 'Green wave' in EU vote amid climate crisis Berlin, May 27 (AFP) May 27, 2019 With double-digit scores across Europe's biggest countries including a stunning 20 percent in Germany, the Greens bagged record gains in EU elections on Sunday with younger voters leading calls for action to halt global warming. The environmental party doubled its score in Germany from the last EU elections in 2014, knocking the Social Democrats off their traditional second place. In France, the Greens were number three with 12 percent, while in Austria, Ireland and the Netherlands, they garnered double-digits. In Britain, they were on 12.4 percent, nearly double their previous score, and beating the ruling Conservatives into fifth place. "To see The Green Party beating the Conservatives so far in these elections is truly amazing. Something seismic is happening in British and European politics," said Alexandra Phillips, Green Party candidate for South East England. With the two main traditional EU blocs -- the conservative EPP and the centre-left Social Democrats projected to lose ground, the Greens could end up as kingmakers in the European Parliament. "This is a Sunday for Future," said the Greens' lead candidate in Germany Sven Giegold, in a nod to the "Fridays for Future" school strikes by students sounding the alarm on the climate crisis. His counterpart in France, Yannick Jadot, also hailed it as a "green wave in which we are the main players". France's Prime Minister Edouard Philippe acknowledged the "message about the ecological emergency". "Everywhere in Europe, our citizens and in particular the youngest are asking us to act with determination and that's what we'll do in France and in Europe," he said. In Ireland, Green Party candidate Ciaran Cuffe was on course to top the first preference tally in Dublin on 23 percent of the vote, with the Greens also seen in contention in the country's two other constituencies. Congratulating the Greens, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said the election was about Brexit and climate action. "It's a very clear message from the public that they want us to do more on climate action -- and we've got that message. That's going to require lots of changes on individual level, community level and Govt level," he said on Twitter. - 'Prove you mean business' - "The big story tonight is that the far right didn't rise in Europe, those numbers didn't come in," said Irish Green Party leader Eamon Ryan. "What actually happened is the Greens came in, the counter to that. In Germany they're the second biggest party, and right across Europe and including here at home I'm so glad that green wave hit home -- we're part of that story." The momentum for the Green surge had been building up over months as the strikes started last November by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, 16, not only refused to lose steam but caught the imagination of youth across the world. In a major mobilisation on Friday, tens of thousands of students rallied, with some calling on their parents to tick the box for the environment at European polls this week. Cheering Sunday's results, a leading student activist in Germany Luisa Neubauer wrote: "The European elections show that we're not only bringing the climate crisis to the streets but also to the ballot boxes. This should give food for thought to those who have in the last month laughed at 'youth engagement'." Under the 2015 Paris deal to limit global warming to well below two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, the 28-nation EU has pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40 percent by 2030, compared with 1990. But many scientists and climate activists say Europe and all other major economies must sharply raise their ambition. The UN Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change warned in October that warming is currently on track towards a catastrophic 3C or 4C rise. - Biggest challenge - In Germany, the climate crisis has exposed a generational split, with adults and the elderly accused of hanging on to their polluting diesel cars while youngsters are urging change by going on school strikes. Stunned by the Greens surge, the parties in Germany's governing coalition vowed to take on the challenge. Markus Soeder, who heads Chancellor Angela Merkel's Bavarian allies CSU, declared the environmental party as its main competitor. "The biggest challenge of the future is the intensive debate with the Greens," he said, adding that "old measures that we had before, are no longer valid". Underlining that his party is struggling to win over young voters, he added that "we must work to be younger, cooler and more open". Early results suggest around one in three under-30s voted Green, while only 13 percent picked the CDU. burs-hmn/har/mtp/qan Merkel's coalition in crisis talks after EU vote debacle Berlin, May 27 (AFP) May 27, 2019 German Chancellor Angela Merkel's embattled coalition will hold crisis talks Monday after a thumping at European polls that has reignited questions over its survival. Voters handed her CDU party and its centre-left coalition partner the Social Democratic Party (SPD) their worst score in European election history, while doubling support for the Greens amid rising fears over global warming. The Greens snatched the second spot from the SPD, coming in just behind Merkel's centre-right CDU/CSU alliance. Crucially, the environmental party took more than a million votes -- including many from young people -- from both the SPD and the CDU. News weekly Der Spiegel judged that the coalition is "in danger" after Sunday's drubbing. "This instability can lead to a break-up at any time," it said. "The CDU and SPD are deeply insecure parties. If, for example, SPD leader (Andrea) Nahles were to fall, the question of the continued existence of the coalition would immediately arise." The SPD, which was stung by a beating at general elections in 2017, had at the time initially sought to go into opposition. But it was reluctantly coaxed into renewing a partnership with Merkel, even as many within the party remain wary of continuing to govern in her shadow while taking the fall for unpopular policies. With the SPD also losing the top spot Sunday in a long-time stronghold, the city-state of Bremen, rumblings of discontent against the party leadership could well grow louder. Already ahead of the vote, Bild am Sonntag newspaper had quoted unnamed sources as saying that veteran politician Martin Schulz was ready to stand against Nahles when the parliamentary chief post comes up for renewal in September. Slapping down the speculation, the SPD's Finance Minister Olaf Scholz warned against any leadership challenges, saying that "calling for personal consequences would not help". - Blindsided - With an eye on three key state elections looming in the autumn in Germany's ex-communist east -- where the far-right is projected to make further gains -- time is running out for the SPD to find an answer to halt the haemorrhage of voters. "The debate about (staying in) the grand coalition is likely to pick up again in the SPD. It's no longer about renewal but about the existence" of the party, said the Sueddeutsche Zeitung. But the SPD was not the only party in crisis mode: Merkel's CDU too has been blindsided by youth-led anger centred on global warming. Key party figures admitted Sunday that they had campaigned on the wrong topics, as they overlooked climate which has overtaken immigration to become the main concern of German voters this year. The momentum for the green surge had been building up over months as the school strikes started last November by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, 16, caught the imagination of youth across the world. The Greens were given a further boost in Germany by a prominent YouTuber called Rezo, whose online assault against Merkel's coalition accusing it of failing to act to halt global warming went viral in the final days of the election campaign. The CDU struggled for days to put out the fire, while Rezo upped the ante and published a joint call with 70 influential YouTubers telling their millions of followers to shun parties in Merkel's coalition and the far-right AfD at the polls. On Sunday, one in three under-30s picked the Greens, while only 13 percent voted for the CDU. The SPD obtained 10 percent of the age group. Among first-time voters, the Greens attracted 36 percent, the CDU 11 percent and the SPD 7 percent. Party chief Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, who hopes to succeed Merkel as chancellor when the veteran leader steps down in 2021, conceded: "Yes, we made mistakes in this election campaign, that has to be said." Markus Soeder, who heads Merkel's Bavarian CSU allies, declared the environmental party its main rival now. "The biggest challenge of the future is the intensive debate with the Greens," he said, adding that "old measures that we had before are no longer valid". Underlining that the CDU-CSU bloc was struggling to draw young voters, he conceded that "we must work to be younger, cooler and more open". Germany's far-right names Greens its number one enemy Berlin, May 27 (AFP) May 27, 2019 Germany's far-right AfD on Monday named the Greens its main rival after the environmentalist party's strong showing at European elections, as it insisted that data showed "no consensus" that climate change is man-made. "They are our main competitors. We're taking them very seriously," said Joerg Meuthen, who headed the AfD's European elections list. The Greens stole a march on the AfD in Sunday's vote, doubling their share from the last European elections to just over 20 percent and coming in second after Chancellor Angela Merkel's centre-right alliance. In comparison, the AfD, which had styled itself as the champion of diesel car owners and coal mines, obtained only 11 percent -- underperforming its 2017 national elections showing. On Monday, Meuthen derided the Greens as "rabbits that will make smaller and smaller hops because at some point, a test will come and it will be devastating." "They are not conservationists, what they do with their wind technology and such is an obvious destruction of nature," he charged. The AfD leader also hit out against those who call his party climate change deniers, as he claimed that "it is not about denying man-made climate change, but about data that is not certain." "I'm saying we have doubts and I would like the so-called climate policies to allow for doubts, allowing for a greater margin of error." Under the 2015 Paris deal to limit global warming to well below two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, the 28-nation EU has pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40 percent by 2030, compared with 1990. But many scientists and climate activists warn that unless major economies sharply raise their ambition, the Earth is on course for catastrophic warming. The UN Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change warned in October that warming is currently on track towards a disastrous 3C or 4C rise. Speed bumps on German road to lower emissions Berlin, May 27 (AFP) May 27, 2019 Germany has in recent years polished its "green" image abroad, but the country was only recently forced to admit it will miss a self-imposed 2020 climate target. With Berlin set to miss the next decade's goals too unless lawmakers take bold action, here are some reasons why carbon reduction has proved tricky even for a wealthy country with an environmentally conscious electorate. - Car-land - The car industry is a pillar of German economic prosperity, juicing export profits and employing 800,000 people. After a long rearguard action in Brussels against tougher emissions limits on Volkswagen, Daimler or BMW's fleets, Berlin remains reluctant to follow Britain and France in setting a cutoff date for new combustion engines. Even the "dieselgate" emission cheating scandal has failed to dent politicians' cosiness with the car, as leaders warned against measures that could harm ordinary drivers, such as bans from city centres for the most polluting vehicles. Conservative transport minister Andreas Scheuer recently blocked plans for a nationwide speed limit on the country's famed Autobahn motorways, which the environment minister had proposed to slash both pollution and road deaths. - Nuclear phase-out - After Japan's Fukushima disaster in 2011, Angela Merkel took one of the biggest political decisions of her chancellorship in 2011, setting 2022 as the date for all German nuclear plants to be shut down. Although widely welcomed at the time, especially by the decades-old anti-nuclear movement, the step overturned planning for electricity supply in a power-gobbling economy. Germany has built up renewable energy sources like wind, solar, bio-fuels and hydroelectric power, accounting for 38 percent of consumption last year and headed for 65 percent by 2030. But some constant supply is needed to balance out fluctuations in naturally-generated power. For now, electricity storage remains expensive and a project to build high-voltage energy links from north Germany's vast offshore wind farms to the industrial south is making only inching progress. The obstacles have seen Berlin turn to Russian gas as an alternative, as well as razing entire villages to make way for open-cast mining of cheap but highly-polluting brown coal. - Long goodbye to coal - Ministers, industry, experts and unions spent months hammering out a "coal compromise" released early this year, calling for the fuel to be abandoned by 2038. The four states most vulnerable to the resulting social upheaval -- with areas especially dependent on coal mining -- will be supported through the transition with 40 billion euros ($45 billion) of public money. Jobs in mining have shrunk by around 100,000 since the turn of the millennium, with just 30,000 people working in the sector by 2016 -- five times fewer than in the wind power industry, according to specialist website Strom Report. Social conflict will nevertheless be hard to avoid, with most of the remaining posts concentrated in areas like the west German rust belt of North Rhine-Westphalia or the deindustrialised former communist east. Mining regions are key parts of Alternative for Germany (AfD) strongholds in ex-communist eastern states like Brandenburg and Saxony, where the far-right party placed first in Sunday's European elections. Upcoming state parliament elections in the region could see a repeat performance, with aftershocks set to rumble all the way to the chancellor's office in Berlin. cfe/tgb/fz/jh VOLKSWAGEN DAIMLER Violence in northwest Nigeria has forced around 20,000 people to seek safety in neighbouring Niger since April, the United Nations refugee agency said on Tuesday. It said the surge was not linked to Islamist group Boko Haram. "People are reportedly fleeing due to multiple reasons, including clashes between farmers and herders of different ethnic groups, vigilantism, as well as kidnappings for ransom," it said in a media briefing. Search Keywords: Short link: Merkel's coalition battles new crisis after EU vote debacle Berlin, May 27 (AFP) May 27, 2019 German Chancellor Angela Merkel's party admitted Monday it had an image problem especially with young voters, as the veteran leader held crisis talks with her embattled coalition partners over a debacle at European polls. Voters on Sunday handed her CDU party and its centre-left coalition partner the Social Democratic Party (SPD) their worst score in European election history, while doubling support for the Greens amid rising fears over global warming. The Greens snatched the second spot from the SPD, coming in just behind Merkel's centre-right alliance of Christian Democratic Union and Christian Social Union. Crucially, the environmental party took more than a million votes -- including many from young people -- from both the SPD and the CDU, according to a poll commissioned by public broadcaster ARD. CDU party chief Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, who is poised to take over from Merkel when she steps down in 2021, conceded that the party had "lost massively among the younger voters" because it failed to proactively engage on issues like climate change that the generation cares about. The party had also created a wrong "image that it was shifting to the right" in its bid to fight the challenge from the far-right anti-immigrant AfD party, she noted. - Blindsided - While focusing its energies on fending off the AfD, which in 2017 became Germany's biggest opposition party, Merkel's CDU instead found itself blindsided this time by youth-led anger centred on global warming. The momentum for the green surge has been building up over months as the school strikes started last November by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, 16, caught the imagination of youth across the world. The Greens were given a further boost in Germany by a prominent YouTuber called Rezo, whose online assault against Merkel's coalition accusing it of failing to act to halt global warming went viral in the final days of the election campaign. The CDU struggled for days to put out the fire, while Rezo upped the ante and released a joint call with 70 influential YouTubers telling their millions of followers to shun parties in Merkel's coalition and the far-right AfD at the polls. On Sunday, one in three under-30s picked the Greens, while only 13 percent of them voted for the CDU. Among first-time voters, the Greens attracted 36 percent and the CDU 11 percent. But if the CDU is in turmoil, its coalition partner SPD is finding itself in an even deeper crisis. In a humiliating result for the SPD, it only attracted 7 percent of first time voters -- lagging behind even the satirical party Die Partei. News weekly Der Spiegel judged that the coalition is "in danger" after Sunday's drubbing. "This instability can lead to a break-up at any time," it said. "The CDU and SPD are deeply insecure parties. If, for example, SPD leader (Andrea) Nahles were to fall, the question of the continued existence of the coalition would immediately arise." - 'Existential question' - Merkel's coalition has been fragile from the start. The SPD, which was stung by a beating in 2017, at the time initially sought to go into opposition. But it was reluctantly coaxed into renewing a partnership with Merkel, even as many within the party remain wary of continuing to govern in her shadow. With the SPD also losing the top spot Sunday in a long-time stronghold, the city-state of Bremen, rumblings of discontent against the party leadership could well grow louder. Already ahead of the vote, Bild am Sonntag newspaper had quoted unnamed sources as saying that veteran politician Martin Schulz was ready to stand against Nahles when the parliamentary chief post comes up for renewal in September. Slapping down the speculation, the SPD's Finance Minister Olaf Scholz warned that "calling for personal consequences would not help". Nahles herself has ruled out stepping down, saying that she will "fulfill the responsibility" that she has. However, with three key state elections looming in the autumn in Germany's ex-communist east -- where the far-right is projected to make further gains -- time is running out for the SPD to halt the voter haemorrhage. "The debate about (staying in) the grand coalition is likely to pick up again in the SPD. It's no longer about renewal but about the existence" of the party, said the Sueddeutsche Zeitung. From Greta to Luisa, youths spearhead climate movement Stockholm, May 27 (AFP) May 27, 2019 They're the faces of the climate alert that propelled Green parties to strong gains in EU elections: Greta, Luisa and Leah lead a generation of youths that have put the planet atop the political agenda. Without these youngsters, some of whom are still not old enough to vote, Europe's Green parties might have still posted strong scores, as the climate has become one of voters' main concerns. But their ubiquitous activism -- in the streets, on social networks, and in the media -- has had an undeniable effect mobilising voters. "The Green parties' results are due to all the young people striking, climate activism is getting more important, especially among young women. They are the ones who set the agenda for the European elections," said Katri Ylinen, a spokeswoman for the Federation of Young European Greens. At just 16, Sweden's Greta Thunberg has become a figurehead for a movement that has gone global, inspiring hundreds of thousands of other youths in dozens of countries to strike from school in "Fridays For Future" protests. One of them is Luisa Neubauer, a 23-year-old university student who has been dubbed "the German Greta". The pair have met on several occasions in recent months, including in December in Poland at the Cop24 summit and in Hamburg in March for a climate march. Social media play a decisive role in mobilising youths and getting them to take to the streets. - From street to ballot box - Known for her long braids and serious demeanor, Greta has also inspired other young girls and women, including Belgian students Anuna De Wever, 17, and Kyra Gantois, 20, and Ugandan 14-year-old Leah Namugerwa, all of whom have risen to the forefront of climate activism in their countries in recent months. Green parties posted strong gains across Europe, in particular in Germany where they took 20.5 percent of votes, in France (13.47 percent) and Britain (12.1 percent). "The European elections show that we're not only bringing the climate crisis to the streets but also to the ballot boxes," Luisa Neubauer wrote on Twitter. Greta's most recent Instagram post was on Sunday. The teen, who was on a train headed for Austria and who is too young to cast a ballot yet, urged Europeans to vote "for the future". - 'Greta effect' - Swedish liberal-leaning newspaper Dagens Nyheter said Monday there was "a Green wind blowing in Europe", thanks in part to "the Greta effect". "But you're never a prophet in your own country," it noted. In Sweden, the Greens party lost two of its four seats in the European Parliament. However, its 11.4 percent score was a sharp rise from the 4.4 percent it scored in legislative elections in September 2018, before Greta's school strikes became a worldwide phenomenon. Around 15 percent of Swedish women voted for the Greens party, according to exit polls by public broadcaster SVT. "Greta is very inspiring, she motivates us. She influenced my vote, I really took to heart some of the things she said, like 'Maybe my grandchildren will ask why we didn't do anything'," said Louise Wirman, an 18-year-old high school student. The fact that many young activists are girls can be attributed to the fact that "young women are drawn to liberal parties, while older men (lean) to the right and to some extent to populist parties," political scientist Sofie Blomback told AFP. Some are threatened by these youngsters, and Greta, who has been diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, has been subjected to harsh criticism from far-right climate sceptics. In France and Germany, activists used her handicap to discredit her campaign, accusing her of being manipulated by "ecofascists", according to the London-based Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD). Greta's student movement has nonetheless spread around the world. In Uganda, 14-year-old Leah Namugerwa is leading a campaign against plastic bags that litter the streets of Kampala. She has started a petition urging President Yoweri Museveni to ban them. Like Greta, Namugerwa is also striking from school, though she says she was inspired by a New York girl of the same age, Alexandria Villasenor, who organises recurring demonstrations outside the United Nations building. burs-gab/po/wai Thunberg joins Schwarzenegger in call for climate action Vienna, May 28 (AFP) May 28, 2019 Climate activist Greta Thunberg called on citizens to "change everything" to avert climate crisis, at the start of a conference in Vienna Tuesday organised by former California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. "We young people are waking up and we promise, we won't let you get away with it anymore," 16-year-old Thunberg told delegates. She was speaking after green parties emerged as one of the big winners in the European parliamentary elections. Climate change was "the biggest crisis that humanity has ever faced," said Thunberg. "It is not something you can 'like' on Facebook." Technological developments in fields such as electric cars and solar energy should not leave people with the impression that they could "solve the crisis without making any efforts", she said. "Once we realise, we act, we change. Humans are very adaptable," she added. Thunberg has become a figurehead for young climate activists internationally, inspiring hundreds of thousands of other youths to strike from school in "Fridays For Future" protests. She was speaking at the Austrian World Summit, an initiative launched by Schwarzenegger, which brings together some 1,200 figures from the worlds of science, politics and business to discuss ways to tackle climate change. In a speech at the event, Schwarzenegger called on world leaders to "stop lying to the people about pollution and about the climate change" and to "invest in the green energy of the future". UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres regretted that "many of the countries that in Paris promised to do a number of things are not even catching up with their own promises". The 2015 Paris agreement, negotiated under the auspices of the UN, enjoins nations to cap global warming at "well below" two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit). But US President Donald Trump pulled out of the accord in 2017. "Climate disruption is upon us, and it is progressing faster than our efforts to address it," Guterres said. In Sunday's European parliament elections green parties managed double-digit scores in some of Europe's biggest countries, including 20 percent in Germany. Polling data indicates younger voters in particular turned towards environmentalist parties in order to put climate action more firmly on the agenda. phs/jsk/jj Merkel party's battle with YouTubers escalates Berlin, May 28 (AFP) May 28, 2019 German Chancellor Angela Merkel's favoured successor was swept into a new storm Tuesday, with her apparent call for limits to free speech around elections stoking further anger rather than putting down a raging youth-led YouTube revolt. Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer's call for "rules" for online media around election-time came after her Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its centre-left coalition partner SPD suffered their worst scores in Sunday's European parliamentary vote. The CDU, in particular, had been put on the back foot in the days leading up to the polls as 70 YouTube stars urged voters to punish the party for its failure to take adequate action to halt global warming. Addressing the debacle on Monday, Kramp-Karrenbauer called for checks on the online influencers, saying that if 70 newspaper editors had made a concerted call to boycott parties ahead of an election, that would be classed "clearly as propaganda". "The question is... what are rules from the analogue realm and which rules should apply to the digital realm? "I'll tackle this discussion quite aggressively," said Kramp-Karrenbauer, or AKK as she is dubbed in Germany. Her comments immediately unleashed a storm with #AKKRuecktritt (AKKresign), #annegate and #AKKgate making up the top three topics trending on Twitter in Germany. - Insulting musings' - Kramp-Karrenbauer then took to Twitter to defend her comments, saying it was "ridiculous to insinuate that I want to regulate expressions of opinion". "Freedom of opinion is a precious value in a democracy. "What we have to talk about are rules that apply during elections," she wrote on Twitter. But that only fanned the fires, with leading media and political figures reminding her of Article five in the German constitution guaranteeing freedom of opinion, speech and writing. "With her insulting musings on 'propaganda' and control of it, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer confirms the criticism of young YouTubers -- and reveals her authoritarian thinking," said Spiegel Online. For the German Federation of Journalists (DJV), AKK's call was "not just nonsense but also a violation of the constitution". Lars Klingbeil, general secretary of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), warned that any attempt at limiting freedom of speech would "definitely not be possible with my party". "This is absurd. Nobody would get upset if an actor or an athlete made an election recommendation," he added. - Petition to 'stop the censorship - Two YouTubers -- an 87-year-old called Marmeladenoma and a 29-year-old, HerrNewstime, launched a petition addressed to AKK, telling her to "stop the censorship and attack against freedom of opinion". By Tuesday afternoon, 32,000 people had signed the petition. AKK, 56, replaced Merkel as head of the CDU last December and is expected to seek the top job when Merkel's term ends in 2021. But her popularity ratings have fallen to close to 20 percentage points behind Merkel's. And her latest misadventure has left some wondering if she was suitable to succeed Merkel as Germany's leader. CDU heavyweight Armin Laschet on Tuesday also voiced disapproval at AKK's latest comment -- saying that "one could have been smarter in the last few days." Within the CDU, Merkel herself came under fire over her environmental policy. "After the result of these European elections, the CDU should wonder why, after 14 years of the 'climate chancellor', we are falling short of our climate goals," Friedrich Merz, an also-ran in the contest to succeed Merkel, told the Spiegel. The CDU has been struggling to find a response after it was caught off guard by an almost hour-long blistering attack by online star Rezo, who blamed the centre-right-led coalition for failing to tackle poverty and climate change. Posted online on May 18, the clip had been viewed 12.7 million times by Tuesday. Rezo received the backing of the 70 other influential online stars, who two days before the EU polls posted a joint call to shun the CDU, SPD as well as the far-right AfD. The CDU ended up receiving just 13 percent of the vote among under-30s, compared with the Greens, who garnered three times as many. ryj/hmn/gd/pvh Canada panel slams Zuckerberg, Sandberg for hearing no-show Ottawa, May 28 (AFP) May 28, 2019 A panel of politicians from Canada and several other nations criticized Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg for ignoring subpoenas Tuesday to appear at a hearing on protecting privacy and democracies online. The panel also adopted a motion to serve the pair with a formal summons to appear before the Canadian parliament's ethics committee should they ever travel to Canada. "Together, we represent over 402 million citizens," said Bob Zimmer, chair of Canada's privacy and ethics committee, which is hosting the meeting. "Mark Zuckerberg's unwillingness to appear before us and give personal testimony is further evidence that his public comments about working with lawmakers rings hollow." Although Zuckerberg and Sandberg were no-shows, Facebook's policy directors Kevin Chan and Neil Potts did appear and faced a grilling. The international committee on big data, privacy and democracy is holding hearings this week in Ottawa to consider ways to prevent social media abuses including privacy breaches, spreading fake news and elections meddling. It met for the first time last year in London, and this round included lawmakers from Argentina, Britain, Canada, Chile, Estonia, Germany, Mexico and Singapore. The panel invited testimony from representatives of Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Microsoft, Mozilla, Twitter and Google, as well as privacy and elections officials, ahead of recommending regulating social media companies in the wake of last year's Cambridge Analytica scandal. The now-defunct British political consulting firm is alleged to have accessed the personal data of 87 million Facebook users as it worked for US President Donald Trump's 2016 campaign. Canada's privacy commissioner Daniel Therrien last month accused Facebook of breaking the law for its role in the worldwide data scandal. He is now taking the company to court to force it to comply with Canada's privacy law. British lawmaker and panel member Damian Collins blamed the business models of social media companies for such data breaches and the spread of harmful content. "That's why we cannot rely on companies like Facebook to solve them," he said. Canadian lawmaker Charlie Angus added: "We are going to move forward with or without Mark Zuckerberg's input." Prior to the start of the hearings on Monday, Facebook, Google and Microsoft signed onto a declaration pledging to protect the integrity of Canada's October federal election -- including working to remove sham social media accounts and content. But other tech giants, including Twitter, have not signed the pledge. Critics noted that these undertakings are voluntary and as such are unenforceable. 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 Turkey's military launched an operation with commandos, backed by artillery and air strikes, against Kurdish militants in northern Iraq, the defence ministry said on Tuesday. The military action began with artillery and air strikes on Monday afternoon and the operation by commando brigades began at 8 pm (1700 GMT) to "neutralise terrorists and destroy their shelters" in an area across the border from Turkey's most southeastern region, the ministry said in a statement. Search Keywords: Short link: France increases pressure on Iraq not to execute IS convicts Paris, May 28 (AFP) May 28, 2019 France said Tuesday it was stepping up efforts to stop Iraq executing four French citizens convicted of fighting alongside the Islamic State (IS) group. An Iraqi court on Sunday sentenced three French nationals to death for joining the Islamic State group, the first IS members from France to be sentenced to capital punishment. On Monday, a fourth French citizen was also condemned to death in Baghdad. The four have 30 days to appeal. "We are increasing the steps to avoid the death penalty for these four French citizens," Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on France Inter radio on Tuesday. "We are opposed to the death penalty... I myself reminded the president of Iraq, President (Barham) Saleh, of our position," he said, without giving further details. In recent months, Iraq has taken custody of thousands of jihadists, including foreigners, captured in neighbouring Syria by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) during the battle to destroy the IS "caliphate". France has long insisted that its adult citizens captured in Iraq or Syria must face trial locally, refusing to repatriate them despite the risk they face capital punishment for waging their jihadist war in the region. Le Drian reaffirmed France's refusal to accept any repatriations of its nationals affiliated with IS. "These terrorists -- because they are terrorists -- who attacked us, who also caused death in Iraq, must be judged where they committed their crimes," he said. The Iraqi judiciary said earlier in May that it has tried and sentenced more than 500 suspected foreign members of IS since the start of 2018. Its courts have condemned many to life in prison and others to death, although no foreign IS members have yet been executed. The country remains in the top five "executioner" nations in the world, an Amnesty International report said in April. Iraq condemns two more French IS members to death Baghdad, May 28 (AFP) May 28, 2019 A Baghdad court sentenced two more Frenchmen to death Tuesday for joining the Islamic State jihadist group, raising the number of French IS members on death row in Iraq to six. Brahim Nejara and Karam El Harchaoui, both in their 30s, were among 12 French citizens transferred to Iraqi authorities in January by a US-backed force fighting the jihadist group in Syria. The court's ruling came despite France reiterating its opposition to capital punishment after a series of similar rulings this week against French citizens handed over to Baghdad. In recent months, Iraq has taken custody of thousands of jihadists, including foreigners, captured in neighbouring Syria by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) during the battle to destroy the IS "caliphate". Four other French citizens -- Kevin Gonot, Leonard Lopez, Salim Machou and Mustapha Merzoughi -- have been given death sentences in recent days by a Baghdad court. Nejara, 33, was involved in IS's foreign fighter operations, according to the French Terrorism Analysis Center. He allegedly helped foreign fighters join IS in Syria, persuaded one of his brothers to commit an attack in France, and was associated with Foued Mohamed-Aggad, one of the suicide bombers at the Bataclan theatre during the 2015 Paris attacks. Harchaoui, 32, left for Syria in 2014 from Belgium. According to Belgian daily HLN, his younger brother and their Belgian wives were also IS members. They have 30 days to appeal. The remaining six face trial in the coming days under a law that allows capital punishment for anyone joining a "terrorist group" -- even those who did not take up arms. The trials have been criticised by rights groups, which say they often rely on evidence obtained through torture. They have also raised the question of whether suspected IS jihadists should be tried in the region or repatriated. France has long insisted that its adult citizens captured in Iraq or Syria must face trial locally, refusing to repatriate them despite the risk they could receive death sentences. On Tuesday Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said he had reminded Iraqi President Barham Saleh that "we are opposed to the death penalty". "We are increasing the steps to avoid the death penalty for these four French citizens," he told France Inter radio. The Iraqi judiciary said earlier in May that it had tried and sentenced more than 500 suspected foreign members of IS since the start of 2018. Its courts have condemned many to life in prison and others to death, although no foreign IS members have yet been executed. The country remains in the top five "executioner" nations in the world, an Amnesty International report said in April. Crisis Group urges 'dialogue' between Mali government, jihadists Dakar, May 28 (AFP) May 28, 2019 Mali's government should consider "dialogue" with jihadists waging an insurgency in the west African state, the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank suggested on Tuesday. The idea of talking to jihadists may seem ludicrous to some, it admitted, but said all avenues should be explored to save civilians from further harm. In a report, the ICG did not suggest halting military operations against Katiba Macina, the armed group of radical Islamist preacher Amadou Koufa behind a four-year-old insurgency. But it recommended "a shift of tack, with force used alongside efforts to bring Katiba Macina leaders to the table", adding that prospects of defeating the movement on the battlefield were "remote". The report said previous contacts had "revealed a degree of pragmatism among Katiba Macina militants, suggesting that even if the odds are stacked against success, dialogue with the group is worth trying." An independent group that analyses conflicts and seeks solutions, the ICG acknowledged that the idea of talking with jihadists could outrage "some Bamako elites" and may be seen a step toward a deal and Sharia rule. Foreign powers, in turn, "might see it as legitimising a terrorist outfit with blood on its hands," the report added. However, "war between the state and jihadists in central Mali has led to growing intercommunal violence," the ICG said. "To spare civilians additional harm, the government should explore the possibility of talks with the insurgents about local ceasefires and humanitarian aid." The government in Bamako "should empower religious leaders to explore initial talks" with jihadist leaders and also seek dialogue among central Malians, "including those sympathetic to the insurgency," the report suggested. - Fulani vs Dogon - To make such talks more palatable to Malian authorities and Western allies like France, which has intervened militarily to combat Islamists, jihadist forces should be compelled to renounce ties to transnational movements such as Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb. Delegates to a national conference in 2017 called for the opening of talks with Amadou Koufa and radical Tuareg leader Iyad Ag Ghaly, but the resolution was rejected by the Malian and French governments. Amadou Koufa in March 2017 joined the newly-formed Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM), which was born of a merger to become the leading jihadist alliance in the Sahel region with links to Al-Qaeda. Iyad Ag Ghaly is its leader. Since the appearance of Koufa's movement, recruited mainly among his own Fulani (Peul) community, communal violence has spread in central Mali, a mosaic of ethnic groups. Fulani people, who are traditionally cattle-breeders, have confronted the Bambara and Dogon communities of settled farmers and hunters, who in turn have created "self-defence militias". In an explosion of violence on March 23, about 160 Fulani villagers were slaughtered at Ogossagou, near the border with Burkina Faso, by suspected Dogon hunters. The UN mission in Mali (MINUSMA) announced on May 16 it had recorded "at least 488 deaths" since January 2018 in attacks by "traditional hunters against civilians of the Peul population" in the central Mopti and Segou regions. Over the same period, armed Fulanis "caused 63 deaths" among civilians in the Mopti region, MINUSMA said. Senior Taliban leader says insurgents want peace Moscow, May 28 (AFP) May 28, 2019 Senior Taliban officials including the group's top political advisor met with Afghan political figures in Moscow Tuesday, saying they were committed to peace in Afghanistan -- even as US-led talks appear to have stalled. In a message the Taliban have not altered since talks with the US started last autumn, Taliban co-founder and political leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said the insurgents want an end to 18 years of conflict -- but would only sign a deal after foreign forces quit Afghanistan. The Taliban are "really committed to peace, but think the obstacle for peace should be removed first", Baradar said in a rare televised appearance at the start of the two-day meeting marking 100 years of diplomatic ties between Russia and Afghanistan. "The obstacle is the occupation of Afghanistan, and that should end," Baradar added. Baradar -- who helped Mullah Omar found the Taliban -- was appointed its political chief in January following his release from a Pakistan prison. Tuesday's Moscow meeting once again cut out senior members of President Ashraf Ghani's government, which the Taliban consider a US-backed puppet regime, though the head of the Kabul administration's high peace council had been slated to attend. Other Afghan politicians -- including former president Hamid Karzai and candidates challenging Ghani in a presidential election slated for September -- were also present. The talks mark the second time Taliban leaders have met with Afghan figures in Russia, following a February summit that saw the former foes praying together and chatting over meals. Former warlord Atta Muhammad Noor said the previous Moscow meeting had yielded "quite positive results". "We are for having good relations with our brothers, with the Taliban," Noor said. "Let's step back a little, embrace each other and create conditions for the start of peace". Moscow appears to be gaining influence in the ongoing process, with the US announcing last month that Washington had reached a consensus with China and Russia on the key formula for a peace deal it is negotiating in Afghanistan. But a recent sixth round of talks between US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and the Taliban ended in Doha this month with no tangible progress cited by the negotiating teams. While the Taliban insist foreign forces must leave Afghanistan before it can agree to peace, the US has refused to agree to a withdrawal until the Taliban put in place security guarantees, a ceasefire, and other commitments including an "intra-Afghan" dialogue with the Kabul government and other Afghan representatives. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who opened Tuesday's meeting, said Russia and Afghanistan have "a shared aim -- fighting terrorism" and reiterated that Moscow supports a complete withdrawal of foreign forces. The Soviet Union and Afghanistan fought a war in the 1980s that resulted in a Moscow's withdrawal after nine years of brutal conflict. Crisis Group urges 'dialogue' between Mali government, jihadists Dakar, May 28 (AFP) May 28, 2019 Mali's government should consider "dialogue" with jihadists waging an insurgency in the west African state, the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank suggested Tuesday, an idea promptly rejected by Bamako. The idea of talking to jihadists may seem ludicrous to some, said the ICG, but insisted all avenues should be explored to protect civilians reeling from inter-communal violence in central Mali, fuelled by the Islamist revolt. In a report, the ICG did not suggest halting military operations against Katiba Macina, the armed group of radical Islamist preacher Amadou Koufa behind a four-year-old insurgency. But it recommended "a shift of tack, with force used alongside efforts to bring Katiba Macina leaders to the table", adding that prospects of defeating the movement on the battlefield were "remote". However, a government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP that "the official line... for the moment is not to discuss with them." This reflected a statement by Mali's Foreign Minister Tiebile Drame, who told Radio France International on a visit to Paris last week: "The line of the Malian state is that there is no dialogue envisaged with those to whom you refer." The ICG report, entitled "Speaking with the 'Bad Guys': Towards dialogue with central Mali's jihadists," said previous contacts had "revealed a degree of pragmatism among Katiba Macina militants, suggesting that even if the odds are stacked against success, dialogue with the group is worth trying." An independent group that proposes solutions to conflicts, the ICG acknowledged the idea of talking with jihadists could outrage "some Bamako elites" and may be seen as a step toward a deal and Sharia rule. Foreign powers, in turn, "might see it as legitimising a terrorist outfit with blood on its hands," the report added. However, "war between the state and jihadists in central Mali has led to growing intercommunal violence," the ICG said. "To spare civilians additional harm, the government should explore the possibility of talks with the insurgents about local ceasefires and humanitarian aid." The government in Bamako "should empower religious leaders to explore initial talks" with jihadist leaders and also seek dialogue among central Malians, "including those sympathetic to the insurgency," the report suggested. - Fulani vs Dogon - To make such talks more palatable to Malian authorities and Western allies such as France, which has intervened militarily to combat Islamists, jihadist forces should be compelled to renounce ties to transnational movements such as Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb. Delegates to a national conference in 2017 called for the opening of talks with Amadou Koufa and radical Tuareg leader Iyad Ag Ghaly, but the resolution was rejected by the Malian and French governments. Amadou Koufa in March 2017 joined the newly-formed Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM), which was born of a merger to become the leading jihadist alliance in the Sahel region with links to Al-Qaeda. Iyad Ag Ghaly is its leader. This group, Drame said last week, "has contributed to shedding a lot of blood, too much blood, these last years." Since the appearance of Koufa's movement, recruited mainly among his own Fulani (Peul) community, communal violence has spread in central Mali, a mosaic of ethnic groups. Fulani people, who are traditionally cattle-breeders, have confronted the Bambara and Dogon communities of settled farmers and hunters, who in turn have created "self-defence militias". In an explosion of violence on March 23, about 160 Fulani villagers were slaughtered at Ogossagou, near the border with Burkina Faso, by suspected Dogon hunters. The UN mission in Mali (MINUSMA) announced on May 16 it had recorded "at least 488 deaths" since January 2018 in attacks by "traditional hunters against civilians of the Peul population" in the central Mopti and Segou regions. Over the same period, armed Fulanis "caused 63 deaths" among civilians in the Mopti region, MINUSMA said. Nigerian army moves thousands away from Boko Haram Kano, Nigeria, May 28 (AFP) May 28, 2019 Nigeria's army has moved nearly 10,000 people from areas attacked by Boko Haram jihadi fighters in northeastern Borno state, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said Tuesday. The area around has seen heavy fighting and ambush attacks against soldiers as they escorted civilians from villages into larger towns. "As of 27 May 2019, a total of 9,432 individuals from Sabon Gari community were moved by the military to Damboa town," the IOM said in a statement. On Friday, fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) faction of Boko Haram opened fire on a column of civilian vehicles under military escort. Five Nigerian soldiers died in that attack, security sources said, and an unknown number are still missing. The civilians were moved in four batches since 23 May. The army has repeatedly moved large numbers of civilians away from areas, ahead of major military offensives. While some 1,400 people have basic shelter in tents or in school classrooms, over 8,000 are staying in open areas without shelter, IOM said. Boko Haram's decade-long campaign of violence has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions across the region. The violence has spilled over into neighbouring Niger, Chad and Cameroon, prompting a regional military coalition to battle the jihadist group. Erdogan meets Iraqi president as Turkey launches strikes on PKK Istanbul, May 28 (AFP) May 28, 2019 President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met his Iraqi counterpart Barham Saleh on Tuesday while the Turkish military launched an operation against Kurdish militants in northern Iraq. The two leaders held talks in Istanbul before attending a Ramadan dinner together. A picture on the Turkish presidency's official website showed Erdogan and Saleh gathering around a round table together with their wives. The visit came as the Turkish military launched an air and ground offensive in mountainous northern Iraq against the hideouts of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), listed as a terror group by Ankara and its Western allies. Special forces and combat drones were also involved in the offensive which started late on Monday, the defence ministry said in a statement. The operation aims at eradicating "caves and shelters used by terrorist groups", it said. Turkey and the PKK have been engaged in fierce fighting since a fragile ceasefire broke down in 2015. The insurgency has claimed tens of thousands of lives since the group took up arms in 1984. Turkey allowed imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan to meet his lawyers this month for the first time in eight years. Some 3,000 Kurdish prisoners on Sunday ended a months-long hunger strike against Ocalan's prison conditions after the militant leader urged them to stop it, through the lawyers he met in his prison island near Istanbul. Pyongyang says no more nuclear talks unless US changes stance Seoul (AFP) May 24, 2019 North Korea said on Friday its deadlocked nuclear talks with Washington "will never be resumed" unless the US adopts a new approach, again blaming it for the collapse of the Hanoi summit in February. US President Donald Trump's second meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un broke up without an agreement or even a joint statement as the two failed to reach a deal on sanctions relief and what Pyongyang would be willing to give up of its banned nuclear weapons and ballistic programmes. Accordi ... read more The United States continues to be alarmed by Syrian government and Russian air strikes in northern Syria, saying recent attacks have more than 200 civilians, the State Department said on Tuesday. Indiscriminate attacks on civilians and public infrastructure such as schools, markets and hospitals is a reckless escalation of the conflict and is unacceptable, said State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus. 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. European election and the wounded two main parties of Britain by Victor Cherubim The Brexit Party is only six weeks old (formed 12 April 2019) but it's deep impact on a power shift away from the centre with 28 seats at the election on 23 May 2019 for the European Parliament, is a change in the political landscape of Britain. It has been an exciting vote for generations.We saw how politics has become polarised. Trust in the two main parties in their ability to create change for the better in people's lives was seen in the result. Labour came third in the election. The Conservatives fared the worst in their defeat in 200 years. Man of the night Nigel Farage once leader of UKIP, now the live wire of the new Brexit Party said he is getting ready and could even win a General Election as his Brexit Party sweeps to victory. He further said this is a massive message to both the major parties. With a population of 400 million in 28 states of Europe,the European Parliamentary elections are for 751 seats, with UK having 73 seats in Brussels. We have seen a monopoly of power of the centrist left and centrist right parties being broken with the biggest turnout in 20 years. Turnout in this years' election was up by nearly 10 points compared with five years ago, the highest according to observers,with the young voting.. Traditionally large centrist parties (European Political Party -EPP) and the centrist left party (Social Democrats) have suffered significant losses as Greens, Liberals, and Populist nationalist parties have gained ground in Brussels. Although they have lost control,the Pro EU parties are still expected to be in a majority and will now need to seek alliances with other small parties like the Greens. President Macron's Renaissance Alliance party in France was beaten by the National Rally party of Marine Le Pen., In Italy, Matteo Salvini's Lega Nord party won the largest number of seats for the nationalists. In Britain, Nigel Forage's,Brexit Party, won the popular vote. While in Germany,the Green Party (Die Grunen) jumped to second place doubling its share of the vote with 20%, solidly beating the dominant Social Democrats. The Greens also surged in Ireland and came second place in Finland,with the biggest gains in for the Greens in England and Wales from three to seven seats. Gains for the parties all over Europe was for pro Pro EU,for environmentalis,and left leaning appear to have mostly been concentrated in urban areas and among younger voters.The gains for the ecologists come amid anti-climate change protests across Europe. What to watch out in Europe? There is much speculation who will take over the Presidency of the European Commission from Jean Claude Juncker. The front runner is Germany's Manfred Weber, European People's Party.There are other contenders also running and if it is a choice of a woman candidate, the likely candidate is Mme Ska Keller, a German Green MEP. While Matteo Salvini,a Populist and Deputy Prime Minister of Italy and Head of the Lega Nord, an anti establishment party candidate may want to take control. His photo is not among the front runners as below. What it means for the future of Europe? A mixed picture can be seen for the future of Europe and for Brexit in England in the months and years to come. It will be a surprise if the Populist -Nationalists of the right parties in Europe, Matteo Salvini, Marine Le Pen and Nigel Farage can come together and take over control of Europe? The Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) among the three governments of Sri Lanka, Japan and India on the development of the East Container Terminal (ECT) located in the Colombo South Port was signed in Colombo on Tuesday, 28 May 2019, SLPA has confirmed in a press statement. As a hub of the Indian Ocean, the development of Sri Lanka and openness of its ports are of great importance. Colombo Port is the leading Port in the region. This joint project reflects the longstanding goodwill and cooperation among the three countries. Japan has provided cooperation for the development of the Jaya Container Terminal since the 1980s. Around 70% of Colombo Ports transshipment business is India-related. Sri Lanka, Japan and India will work together for further development of the Colombo Port and contribute to further regional prosperity and stability of global trading networks. SLPA retains 100% ownership of East Container Terminal (ECT). The Terminal Operations Company (TOC) conducting all East Container Terminal operations is jointly owned; Sri Lanka retains a 51% stake, and the joint venture partners hold a 49% stake. The envisaged Japanese loan carries one of the best loan terms Sri Lanka has obtained. The 51% stake is also one of the best in SLPA joint ownership endeavours. SLPAs majority ownership in the new TOC represents a significant step in prioritizing National Interests. The three governments will work out details based on the MOC at joint working group meetings and advance their cooperation towards early commencement of work and operation of the ECT. Senior White House adviser Jared Kushner is leading a U.S. delegation to the Middle East this week seeking support for a late June workshop aimed at helping the Palestinians, a White House official said on Tuesday. Kushner, Middle East envoy Jason Greenblatt and U.S. Special Representative for Iran and Kushner aide Avi Berkowitz began their trip in Rabat and were to travel to Amman and Jerusalem, arriving in Israel on Thursday. Kushner also will attend the Bilderberg conference in Montreux, Switzerland, where he is expected to be a speaker, at the end of the week and then will meet U.S. President Donald Trump in London when the latter makes a state visit there next week. The trip is similar to one that Kushner and Greenblatt took in February to Gulf states to drum up support for the economic portion of a Middle East peace plan they have been developing on behalf of Trump. The official said one reason for this weeks trip is to bolster support for a June 25-26 conference in Manama, Bahrain, in which Kushner is to unveil the first part of Trumps long-awaited Israeli-Palestinian peace plan. The plan, touted by Trump as the deal of the century, is to encourage investment in the West Bank and Gaza Strip by Arab donor countries before grappling with thorny political issues at the heart of the conflict. Palestinian leaders have been sharply critical of the effort. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have said they will participate, and a senior U.S. official said officials from Qatar have said privately their country was expected to attend as well. The Russian foreign ministry took a dim view of the conference in a statement on Tuesday, saying the United States was attempting to impose an alternative vision of the Palestinian-Israeli settlement. The Palestinian leadership has already categorically refused to take part, saying that the PLO will not surrender to anyone its exclusive rights to make crucial decisions regarding the realization of Palestinians national aspirations, it said. Participants in the conference in Manama are expected to include 300 to 400 representatives and business executives from Europe, the Middle East and Asia, and possibly some Palestinian business leaders. A source familiar with the planning said it appeared Egypt, Jordan and Oman, as well as the G7 countries, also would send representatives to the conference. Search Keywords: Short link: The entire structure of Muslim education, therefore, needs reforming, and that cannot be done in isolation without reforming the national education structure by Ameer Ali With President Sirisena, Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and leaders of the Joint Opposition, engaged in revenge politics (Stephen Long, Asian Tribune, May 2019), and as the term of the present government and that of the president is drawing to a close, there is neither the time nor an inclination for the ruling regime to look for lasting solutions to the nations persisting problems. They are busy counting the size of their respective vote banks. Already the Minister of Finance is forced to revise downwards the 2019 budget forecasts and the economy is in dire straits. After the Easter Carnage and subsequent communal violence the prognosis does not look good for the economy, which means the majority of people are destined to endure rising cost of living and prolonged misery. Didnt the President say earlier that the budget is not important? Now, with the release of obstreperous Gnanasara who was imprisoned for contempt of court, the President has shown that it is not only the budget and the economy but even the judiciary is not important. All that the yahapalana regime can do therefore, is to look for band aid solutions to problems that require expert diagnosis and lasting remedies. One such band aid solution is the decision to control and bring all madrasas under the Ministry of Education. Not much details are coming out as to how it is going to be done and with what objective/s and outcome? Madrasas like the Buddhist Pirivenas are an integral part of a Muslim childs early development. They impart not only the elementary knowledge about the Quran and the Prophet of Islam, but also the ethics and mortals surrounding good human behaviour. In fact, madrasa education may have its roots in the early Buddhist monasteries or vihara in Central Asia. In Sri Lanka however, its history goes back to the late nineteenth century when, according to the Department of Muslim Affairs, the first madrasa was established in Galle in 1870. Today, there are 1669 madrasas and 317 Arabic colleges (Daily Mirror, 3 May 2019). In Kattankudy alone there are seven such colleges and 80 madrasas. In the context of Sri Lanka, the term madrasa normally relate to the elementary Quran schools or maktabs attached to all the mosques in all Muslim villages and towns in the country. A child is normally expected to complete this level of education before it reaches the age of ten. In contrast, the Arabic colleges are the madrasas proper and the ones that train the ulema who graduate as imams and other religious functionaries, and are qualified to teach Islam and Arabic in government schools and deliver sermons in mosques. This level of education takes about seven years or more to complete. Is the government going to take over only the 317 proper madrasas and make them government funded Muslim religious educational institutions? If that is the intention why only the madrasas and not religious schools operating in other communities? It appears that the main reason why it has picked the madrasas only is because of the general suspicion, arising from the recent Easter massacre, that they have become the incubators for jihadists and extremists like Zahran Hashim. To start with, this particular individual who engineered that infamy was a madrasa drop out who did not finish his education, but an autodidact who acquired his twisted ideas about Islam through contacts with foreign sources. In an article published earlier, it was pointed out that, So far, there is absolutely no hard evidence that madrasas in Sri Lanka are teaching jihadism and producing jihadists. What they are producing instead is a community of religious men and women who are ignorant of the cosmopolitan outlook of Islamic civilization and therefore making the madrasa indoctrinated Islam an inward looking and exclusivist religion. How to make Islam cosmopolitan, inclusive and tolerant is the fundamental challenge Muslims are facing in plural societies like Sri Lanka. It was in that vein another article advocated that madrasa education should be modernized. The existing madrasas are repositories and transmitters of past knowledge and not laboratories producing new knowledge to face modern challenges. They are churning out graduates who are mostly memorisers and summarisers rather than analysers and innovators. nThe latter skills require access to knowledge outside the medieval texts that are being taught in them, an expertise in modern learning techniques and in addition, familiarity with other languages apart from classical Arabic. Lately however, and at least since 1990s, several madrasas have fallen under the influence of Wahhabi orthodoxy because of Saudi funding. That orthodoxy is also spreading through faculties and departments of Islamic and Arabic studies in universities.This does not mean that Wahhabism is solely responsible for the emergence of producing jihadists and extremists. A Wahhabi can become a jihadist or extremist just as a secularly educated young man or woman can become one. In fact, among the Easter bombers were upper and upper middle class youngsters who did not go to the madrasas but were educated in Western universities. It all depends on the situation peculiar to each country and society. The post-2009 wave of far right Buddhist nationalism with its anti-Muslim focus and Islamophobia, and the failure of successive governments to check its spread have a lot to answer for the spread of extremism among sections of Muslim youth in this country. To blame the madrasas for this failure is to bark up the wrong tree. Today, one doesnt have to go to a madrasa or any other institution to get radicalised. We are living in an interconnected world and network society. By sitting at your home or in your bedroom with a laptop or television and watching the pictures of wars and bloodshed relayed almost daily from the Middle East and other Muslim countries, any young Muslim man or woman with an inkling of feeling for his umma (super community) could easily get agitated. He or she only needs some spark from somewhere to get into action, an important ingredient in the growth of home grown terrorism in the West. This fact must be understood by those who are ready to put the entire Muslim community on the dock for the crimes of a few. That there is a need to check the spread of Wahhabism by modernising madrasa education is beyond question. In general, Wahhabism is an ultra-orthodox and purist ideology allowed to spread globally by the US and its Western allies to counter the threat of Iranian Shia radicalism in the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution. Unlike Shia radicalism, Wahhabi orthodoxy does not advocate rebellion against governments or revolution. These ideologues would even prefer tyranny over anarchy. Saudi monarchy survives on the strength of Wahhabism. Philosophically, this ideology is essentially anti-Shia, anti-Sufi, anti-rational and even anti-science. It is this outlook that is retarding the culture of progress in many Muslim societies. In countries like Sri Lanka, Wahhabis are creating religious tension and divisions both within and outside the Muslim community. There is also the danger that this ideology prepares a mindset that can be easily swayed by more vicious ideologies preached by groups like the ISIS. Wahhabism is all about iman (faith or belief), and groups like ISIS are all about (umma) belonging. It is the shift from belief to belonging that creates problem for Muslim minorities. The National Thawheed Jamaat is a classic example of this evolution from belief to belonging. The issue therefore is not to control the madrasas but to unlock the Wahhabi mindset to make it scientific and rational. Madrasas are only one part of Muslim education. There are, in addition, Muslim schools with Wahhabi-leaning teachers, and university faculties and departments that teach Islam and Islamic studies with a pro-Wahhabi stint. The entire structure of Muslim education, therefore, needs reforming, and that cannot be done in isolation without reforming the national education structure. Since independence education in Sri Lanka has become one of the vehicles to create a soft apartheid society. As a result, the standard of education has fallen, partly in response to competing populist demands from communal quarters and partly because of inadequate resources. This is one reason why there are tens of thousands of unemployable graduates in the country ready to be mobilised by leaders to advance chauvinist agendas. What is needed now is a thorough overhaul of the national education system, including the madrasas, with a view to build a united Sri Lanka first and then to produce generations of literate, skilled and capable citizens to face a competitive world. This requires nothing short of a White Paper drawn by a team of educationists and experts. Anything less will be band aid solutions. Unfortunately, such an overhaul cannot be initiated by a Prime Minister and President who are about to wish good bye to their respective offices. TFA Chief Executive, George Dunn, said Outcomes, such as those we have seen from last weeks European Parliament elections can tempt those who have gained to become vitriolic, whilst those losing ground feel forced into making knee-jerk reactions to refocus their campaign agendas. However, what we need is for all sides to work constructively to find a new dynamic that will take us through these turbulent, political times. At the same time as soundbites have won the hearts and minds of many within the electorate, the established political machinery no longer appears to have any traction with the country. However, we need more than soundbites to take us forward and if the established ways of doing that are now broken, we must have movement in both ends of the spectrum to achieve what is required, said Mr Dunn. Taking full advantage of the long-term opportunities from leaving the European Union whilst, at the same time, safeguarding ourselves from some of the challenges we will face, will take skill and diplomacy. The TFA believes that this cannot be achieved through a cliff edge no deal Brexit with the EU in the autumn. As the Conservative Party looks to appoint a new leader, also to become our new Prime Minister, it is essential that whoever that is, they work to secure a sensible transitional arrangement with the EU that will allow us to have a soft landing on our exit, said Mr Dunn. Bangladesh authorities have put the police force on nationwide alert after the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for a second explosion targetting security forces in less than a month. The Sunday night blast in Dhaka's Malibagh neighbourhood, just outside the headquarters of the police's Special Branch, left two people injured, including a female officer. Dhaka Police Commissioner Asaduzzaman Mia told reporters Monday it was a powerful bomb, and that it had been planted in a police pick-up van. Daesh claimed responsibility, with its propaganda wing Amaq saying the IS militants targeted the police vehicle with an "explosive device", destroying the vehicle and wounding three personnel on board. Bangladesh police rejected the claim, saying the explosion was still being investigated. "No connection of IS has been found in the incident," national police spokesman Sohel Rana said. He said following the blast "all units of Bangladesh police have been asked to take necessary cautionary measures". Last month, The IS group said they "detonated an explosive device" aimed at a group of police, the SITE Intelligence Group reported. It was the first IS-claimed attack in Bangladesh in more than two years. According to the US-based SITE, which monitors jihadist activity, the brief IS statement said that blast wounded three police on a road to Dhaka's Gulistan market. The IS group also said it detonated explosives in the northeastern city of Sylhet in March 2017. Police said six people died in those blasts as commandos stormed an Islamist hideout. The government at the time rejected IS's claim and blamed a banned homegrown organisation. Bangladesh launched a crackdown on Islamist extremism after attacks in July 2016, when IS-inspired militants stormed a Dhaka cafe killing 22 people, including 18 foreigners. Since then, security forces have staged nationwide raids in which, they say, nearly 100 members of two extremist Islamist groups have been killed. Hundreds of suspects have been detained. The South Asian nation has also boosted security since the April 21 Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka, which were carried out by attackers affiliated to I group. Search Keywords: Short link: Published: 28 May 2019 European Parliamentary elections 2019, result of the preliminary calculation The result based on the preliminary calculation of the votes cast in the European Parliamentary elections 2019 has been published in the StatFin statistical database . The National Coalition Party got the largest share of the votes in the elections: 20.8 per cent of votes. In relative terms, the Green League increased its support most compared with the previous European Parliamentary elections, by 6.7 percentage points. The voting percentage of people living in Finland was 42.7 per cent, which was 1.7 percentage points more than in the 2014 elections. Statistics Finland will publish data on the confirmed result of the European Parliamentary elections based on the control calculation on 5 June 2019. Support for parties in the European Parliament elections in 2009, 2014 and 2019, % Source: European Parliament Elections 2019, Statistics Finland Inquiries: Sami Fredriksson 029 551 2696, Jaana Asikainen 029 551 3506, vaalit@tilastokeskus.fi Director in charge: Jari Tarkoma Publication in pdf-format (332.3 kB) Updated 28.5.2019 Referencing instructions: Official Statistics of Finland (OSF): European Parliament elections [e-publication]. ISSN=1798-291X. 2019. Helsinki: Statistics Finland [referred: 29.12.2021]. Access method: http://www.stat.fi/til/euvaa/2019/euvaa_2019_2019-05-28_tie_001_en.html 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. British Secretary of State for International Trade Liam Fox arrived in Egypt for his first official visit to the country to unveil new agreements in transportation, healthcare and financial services. In an official press release on Monday, the UK embassy in Cairo said that Fox will meet with Egypts Minister of Trade and Industry Amr Nassar and Minister of Investment and International Cooperation Sahar Nasr to discuss new investments in Egypt. This is Secretary of State Foxs first visit to Egypt since his appointment in 2016. The visit forms part of his tour to North Africa as the UK continues to take forward steps towards achieving its commitment to be the number one G7 investor in Africa by 2022, according to the embassy. The UK is committed to becoming the largest G7 investor in Africa by 2022 with a particular interest in strategic, job-creating sectors that will see our mutual economies grow. I look forward to establishing new partnerships during my visit to enhance the trade ties between Egypt, North Africa and the UK, Fox said ahead of his visit. British Ambassador to Egypt Sir Geoffrey Adams said that the UK is proud to be a leading investor in Egypt, and I am delighted we can demonstrate our support for the Egyptian governments plans to continue to grow the economy for the benefit of all Egyptians. Search Keywords: Short link: Chloe Print-Lambert and her partner Jordan Mansfield have pledged to help other parents with a family fund raising afternoon in July. Photo: Gina Print. A COUPLE from Stratford-upon-Avon who suffered the tragic loss of their daughter nearly two years ago are raising money to help other parents cope with the trauma of bereavement at birth. Chloe Print-Lambert, aged 24, and her partner, Jordan Mansfield, 28, continue to try and start a family together but lost their daughter - Emma Kate who was stillborn on 21st July 2017. The couple have unfortunately experienced three miscarriages; the first in 2016 and two further miscarriages last year and after the loss of Emma they found themselves asking a lot of painful questions and felt pitifully inadequate as they tried to come to terms with their loss and blamed themselves in the wake of their personal tragedy. In the summer they will be holding a fundraising family fun afternoon on Sunday 28th July at the Rosebird Community Hall, Stratford where they hope to donate money to Lighthouses Therapy Services so another local parent or couple can attend their White Feathers Counselling Retreat by the sea in Formby, Liverpool. It is for parents who are navigating the devastating journey of losing a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal loss and infant loss. "At times like this its hard to know whats normal anymore so trained counsellors are there for one-to-one meetings and eventually honouring your lost baby by painting rocks or playing songs you revive memories of them but learn how to leave some grief behind. The weekend we spent there was so incredibly healing for us, and importantly without any financial burden because of generous public donations. We would like another local couple to get that same support, Chloe said. The public event page can be found by searching Emmas Birthday Family Fun Fundraiser on Facebook. Full story in this weeks Herald. Warwick Racecourse. HORSE RACING WARWICK Racecourse is preparing its season finale and getting ready to say goodbye to two committee members who will be bringing down the curtain on their stewardship at the track. Tomorrow's, Wednesday, Celebration Race Night will signal the end of a decade-long association with the racecourse for Richard Samuda and Amanda Langdale. The race night will mark the fourth and final fixture in the Qatar Airways May Racing Carnival, which has attracted more than 12,000 visitors to the racecourse this month. Amanda trained as an honorary steward with the British Horseracing Authority in 2009 at the same time as joining the Warwick Racecourse committee. Its come on leaps and bounds, the racecourse has an exciting atmosphere and its a great place to race," she said. Warwick is a racecourse really made by the people who work there, he team are brilliant and create a wonderful environment for racing. In my time on the committee, Andre Klein has joined and pushed the racecourse on. "It really is one of the top small tracks in the country now. Looking back, to have seen a horse like One For Arthur win here was a real highlight and in more recent times Kalashnikov. Ill be sad to leave and will miss it, but Ill definitely be staying involved in racing. Richard joined shortly after and says the racecourse, and the sport, has come a long way in that time, including Warwick transitioning to a jumps track. He added: We have made a lot of progress on the course during my time and I think the move from flat to jumps has aided that. With investment, the track is a now a better experience for owners and trainers than ever before. Id like to think the committee has played a part in that. Weve strengthened relationships with the town too, people appreciate what the racecourse now adds to the town, not just emotionally and historically, but economically too. Seeing the crowds grow has been very rewarding and I think the atmosphere has improved with that too. Its been a privilege to take winners into the winners enclosure and enjoy a drink with them. It is the right time for us to move on but Ill miss it very much. The battle for the title of top trainer at Warwick this season is also set to come to a head at Celebration Race Night. Dan Skelton and Nicky Henderson are locked on 12 winners a piece going into the final fixture, with Skelton looking to be named top trainer at Warwick for a fifth successive year. Andre Klein, general manager at Warwick Racecourse, said: On behalf of everyone at the racecourse we would like to thank Amanda and Richard for their years of dedicated service. Its been another fantastic season for us, with some brilliantly competitive races and seriously good horses. It was something special to see Hazels Hill win the Overbury Stud Willoughby de Broke Hunter Chase in January, and go on to land the Foxhunters Challenge Cup at The Festival. Its been a year when the hard work of some of the team has been acknowledged with awards and well be looking to go out on a high on Celebration Racenight." Alongside the on-track action racegoers will be able to enjoy live music from local Irish band Lampa. The Hook Norton Beer Carnival will also be taking place on the day. For more information and tickets for Celebration Race Night call 01926 405560 or go to www.warwickracecourse.co.uk. Egypt is considering selling three recently built power plants to private investors, but talks are still at an early stage, Electricity Minister Mohamed Shaker said on Tuesday. The plants, billed at the time as the worlds biggest, were built by Siemens AG in a 6 billion euro ($6.7 billion) deal signed in 2015. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi inaugurated them in July. The negotiations are still in the early stages, Shaker told Reuters by telephone. He declined to disclose further details. Bloomberg reported on Monday that Blackstone Group and Edra Power Holdings of Malaysia had both expressed interest in taking over the plants and selling the electricity generated back to the Egyptian government, a step that would reduce public debt. A person with knowledge of the power plants financing said a similar plan was broached last year to sell the plants either to investors or through an initial public offering, but nothing came of it. So I dont know whether this one will progress. The only thing I know is that it would be complicated given the debt package in place, the person told Reuters. To finance the construction, Egypt brought in Deutsche Bank , HSBC Holdings and KfW IPEX-Bank to structure and arrange the international portion and used local banks to finance the Egyptian pound portion. It also brought in export credit agencies (ECA) to secure the facilities, Siemens said at the time. Egypt awarded a $352 million contract in September to Siemens and Siemens Technologie to manage the plants. The three plants alleviated an acute power shortage marked by rolling power outages and cuts to industrial output in the years following Egypts 2011 uprising. Egypt sold 4.5 percent of the shares of state-controlled tobacco monopoly Eastern Company in March in the first of a series of partial privatisations planned over the next few years. Search Keywords: Short link: Hong Kong: Bill explanation available for pupils The Education Bureau is more than willing to visit schools to further explain the fugitive bill if necessary, Secretary for Education Kevin Yeung said today. Wrapping up his duty visit to Beijing, Mr Yeung told reporters he had learnt that alumni from some schools had initiated signature campaigns opposing the bill, and that some of these schools have stated the campaigns do not reflect their stance. Mr Yeung said: As I said, in the past few weeks the Security Bureau and also the Secretary for Justice have already explained a lot on the background of the amendments of the ordinance on many occasions." He said it is necessary for everyone in Hong Kong to listen to all views and to understand why the Government has proposed such changes before they form a view on whether they support the amendment or not. But in any case, if the schools feel, for example, that they need our support in explaining in more detail about the proposed amendments, we are happy to do it, he added. This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. The Egyptian Competition Authority (ECA) has summoned representatives from Chinese giant technology company Huawei to discuss the rising conflict between the telecommunications equipment provider and Google. According to a statement by the ECA, the head of the authority Rady Abdel-Moety summoned the Chinese companys representatives to discuss repercussions over the ongoing tech tug-of-war. Huaweis representative stressed that the operating systems, both by Huawei and Google, continue to work on all of the companys smartphones. He added that there were current talks with Google for a solution that would best benefit consumers. Huawei phones are powered by the Android operating system, which is owned by Google. The dilemma started after US President Donald Trump placed Huawei on a trade blacklist, placing restrictions on American companies conducting business with the Chinese tech giant. Trumps decision has led to Google halting business with Huawei, including the exchange of hardware and software products, excluding those covered by open source licenses. Several other US companies have also cut ties with Huawei, including Intel Corp., Qualcomm Inc., Xilinx Inc. and Broadcom Inc. Huawei will be able to keep sending software updates to its phones until 19 August despite an immediate sales ban in the United States, after it succeeded in receiving a temporary license from the United States Commerce Department. The major blow has led the Chinese manufacturer to consider rolling out its own operating system, with a launch date still undecided. 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 CDC, the UKs development financial institution announced Tuesday that it has been granted approval by the Central Bank of Egypt to provide Tier 2 capital to the Egyptian banking sector. The approval could see CDC commit as much as $200million to local banks to help increase their support for Egypts ongoing economic development. CDC is the first bilateral development finance institution to be given clearance to provide Tier 2 capital to Egypts banking sector. CDC is currently in discussions with a number of Egyptian banks with a view to providing funding that will support their loan book expansion, bringing new products to their MSME (micro, small & medium-sized businesses) and export-orientated customers. CDCs Chief Executive Nick ODonohoe said We welcome the decision of the Egyptian Central Bank to enable CDC to lend Tier 2 capital to the countrys banks. Supporting Egypts banking sector is a stepping stone for CDC to support the countrys private sector, in particular small and medium sized businesses which are the bedrock of job creation and economic growth in the country. Todays decision will allow us to play a role in building a healthy, well-capitalised banking sector in Egypt." CDC is committed to the countrys economic development, so I am delighted to announce that we will appoint a country representative this year as we focus on building long-term partnerships and invest more in Egypt. Meanwhile, UKs International Trade Secretary Liam Fox, who is on a trade mission in Cairo this week said The appetite of British companies to invest in Egypts future is growing. Last year, we saw CDC support Benban Solar Park and this year it plans to commit millions to Egyptian banks to assist them in developing this countrys economy. These investments clearly reflect UKs commitment to Egypt and its people. Last year CDC announced its ambition to invest up to $4.5bn across Africa over the four years up to 2022. CDC has invested in Egypt since 2003 and sees the country as an increasingly important focus for its investment activities. Its capital currently supports 20 companies in the country that employ over 9000 people. CDC has provided over $115 million investment to those companies. In late 2017, CDC provided a loan of US$97 million to the 800MW Nubian Suns solar power project as part of a larger financing package that will help Egypt reach its green energy targets and create thousands of jobs. The Nubian Suns project is part of the Benban Solar Park, which, when complete, will be the largest solar power installation in the world. In 2016, CDC committed $15 million to the Ezdehar Egypt Mid-Cap Fund, a first-time, locally-based investment fund that provides growth finance and know-how to small and medium-sized family businesses. For more on the impact of the Ezdehar Fund go here. CDC has significant experience in supporting financial institutions across Africa and South Asia. In recent years, CDC has backed commercial banks, microfinance institutions, non-banking financial institutions and other providers of financial services and insurance. In 2018 CDC committed $100 million to the Cairo-based Afreximbank in the form of a risk sharing guarantee program to promote trade across the African Continent. Search Keywords: Short link: UK Secretary of State for International Trade Liam Fox has concluded his visit to Egypt, where he announced new partnership agreements in the countrys healthcare, transportation, and financial services sectors; most notably awarding the UKs Bombardier Transportation a contract to build two Cairo monorails worth 3 billion. According to a statement by the British Embassy in Cairo, Fox also announced the awarding of the UKs Vodafone with a $100 million contract for a new health insurance IT system in Port Said. British pharmaceuticals giant GSK has also announced an EGP 100 million upgrade to two major production lines in Cairo, which aims to increase production capacity and provide job opportunities for Egyptians. During Foxs visit, the Central Bank of Egypt announced that the UK's development finance institution CDC Group is the first non-IFI bank to be granted approval to provide Tier 2 capital to Egyptian Banks. This decision paves the way for CDC to invest an estimated $150-200m in Egypts banking sector. The CDC will also open an office in Egypt in the coming months, to support its increased engagement in Egypt, the statement read. UK company Micromesh also signed an agreement with the Egyptian Ministry of Military Production to manufacture air filters for power stations on the sidelines of the secretary of trades visit. Now is a great time to be looking at the business opportunities with Egypt, a country projected to have one of the top 15 economies by 2050. As Egypt commits to carrying out its reform vision, the UK continues to support it in building a resilient, sustainable economy, Fox said. British Ambassador to Egypt Sir Geoffrey Adams said that with Egypt's economic reforms and the UKs departure from the EU, we have the opportunity to tear down barriers to trade and investment and strengthen our economic ties. Search Keywords: Short link: Millions without power after tornado hits Ohio Washington, May 28 (AFP) May 28, 2019 A huge tornado that plowed through the central US state of Ohio injured several people and left millions more without power, officials said Tuesday. The twister barrelled over the town of Dayton late Monday, damaging homes and uprooting trees. No deaths have been reported so far. The National Weather Service said the tornado cut electricity supplies to five million people and parts of the state faced the risk of flash flooding in the wake of the storm. "We have lost power to both water plants and pump stations. First Responders are performing search and rescue operations and debris clearing," the official account for the city of Dayton tweeted. Emergency workers were shutting down gas lines and trying to get to residents trapped by debris, officials in Montgomery County said. The exact injury toll was unclear from initial reports. The tornado was the third in a week to rake the central US. At least two people died and another 29 were hospitalised in Oklahoma over the weekend when a tornado flattened a mobile home park in El Reno. President Donald Trump, who was returning to Washington on Tuesday after a visit to Japan, tweeted that he had offered federal resources for the cleanup. Another three died last Wednesday when a tornado packing speeds of 160 miles (260 kilometers) per hour tore through Jefferson City in Missouri. burs-gle/hg/ecl The Egyptian Competition Authority (ECA) has said that the return of European on-demand delivery service Glovo to the Egyptian market would be approved only after the company suspends an agreement with another delivery service in the country that violates anti-monopoly laws. In an official statement on Tuesday, the ECA released the details about meetings held to discuss the Spanish on-demand service Glovos exit from the country, determining that the company and the German Delivery Heroanother delivery service companyhad violated the countrys competition law through a shareholder agreement. According to Article 6 of the 2005 law on the Protection of Competition and the Prohibition of Monopolistic Practices, agreements or contracts between competing persons in any relevant market are prohibited if they are intended to divide product markets or allocate them based on geographic areas, distribution centers, type of customers, goods, seasons or time periods. The article also states that agreements are prohibited if the involved parties are found to have restricted the production, distribution or marketing operations, or limited the distribution of services in terms of its kind or volume or applying restrictions or conditions for their availability. The announcement is the first by the Egyptian authorities following a shocking exit by Glovo last month; where they announced a suspension of services in the country without providing more details. The exit comes less than a year after the emerging service launched in Egypt. Delivery Hero operates in Egypt through two directly owned subsidiaries which are the closest competitors to Glovo in the Egyptian on-demand delivery market. In 2018, Delivery Hero entered into a shareholder agreement with Glovo by acquiring 16 percent of Glovos shares. The agreement confers Delivery Hero with certain corporate rights that allow the company to access commercially sensitive information of its competitors operations in the Egyptian market and to influence Glovos strategic business decisions, according to the statement. The exercise of minority rights in such a way as to limit competition between the parties is a recourse to methods that fall outside the scope of competition on the merits defined as the normal competition between firms in offering consumers better prices and/or quality, the ECA argued. The ECA has given both companies 30 days to execute the authoritys decisions. Search Keywords: Short link: BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan hosted the first state visit of the new imperial era on Monday, welcoming the American President and First Lady to the Imperial Palace. Carl Court Pool/Getty Images The imperial couple hosted the presidential couple to the Imperial Palace for an official welcoming ceremony on Monday. NICOLAS DATICHE/AFP/Getty Images The ceremony, held in a large palace courtyard, included the playing of both national anthems and a military presentation. Carl Court Pool/Getty Images Masako wore ivory and classic pearls for the occasion, including a pair of button earrings with a golden border. She also wore a pearl ring on her right hand. BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images The Akishinos were also present for the welcoming ceremony. Crown Princess Kiko wore pearls with one of her silver ribbon brooches. KAZUHIRO NOGI/AFP/Getty Images On Monday evening, Naruhito and Masako held a state banquet at the palace in honor of their visitors. BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images No tiaras were worn for the black-tie dinner, but Masako brought out an impressive suite of gold, pearl, and diamond jewels. Particularly interesting was the gorgeous diamond necklace, set in gold, that she wore for the event. BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images Several other imperial ladies were also present for the event, all wearing subdued jewelry. Here youll note Crown Princess Kiko in blue with pearls, and Princess Mako in a golden lace gown with pearls. BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images Princess Kako also accessorized her yellow dress with pearls for the occasion. Please note: As always, this website is not a place for discussion of contemporary American politics. Please respect my wishes and restrict your comments to the jewels pictured in the post. Netflix has announced that it will be producing its third Arabic original series and its first venture into Egyptian drama with Paranormal (Ma Waraa Al-Tabeea), to be directed by Amr Salama and produced by Mohamed Hefzy. The series is based on the best-selling books by late novelist Ahmed Khaled Tawfik. The horror stories are set in the 1960s in Egypt -- where the show will be filmed -- and follow the character of Dr. Refaat Ismail as he encounters various supernatural events, mostly inspired by Egyptian folk tales and mythology. The high-profile duo Salama and Hefzy last collaborated in the 2017 on the award-winning movie Sheikh Jackson. "It was my dream to adapt Paranormal by the late author Ahmed Khaled Tawfik and turn it into a drama ever since I wanted to be a filmmaker," Salama said in an interview with the Hollywood Reporter. The director added that he wants to present the books in a new light, while still keeping their essence. Paranormal is the third Middle Eastern Netflix original series following two series from Jordan; 'Jinn', and 'Al Rawabi School for Girls,' which was produced with a fully female Arab cast and crew. Netflix's first Middle Eastern project was the Arabic stand-up comedy Adel Karam: Live From Beirut, while its first Middle East acquisition was in 2016 with the Emirati feature Zinzana. For more arts and culture news and updates, follow Ahram Online Arts and Culture on Twitter at @AhramOnlineArtsand on Facebook at Ahram Online: Arts & Culture Search Keywords: Short link: The artist will give a performance which will be followed by a discussion of her work and process Dancer Georgia Begbie will hold an open studio event at Townhouse Gallery, where she is artist-in-residence, on 29 May. The event, titled Sign Here, will start with the artist showing a part of the performance she has been working on during her one-month residency. It will be followed by a talk with the artist about her project and her work process. Begbie has been doing research on how the physical body can express signs, distort space and interpret its own signs. Her performance emerges from the space between the signs that are being pointed to, and our interpretation and understanding of them. "By making sense of signs we shape our own reality," her statement reads. Begbie is a 2018 graduate of the Fontys School of Arts in Tilburg in the Netherlands, where she studied Dance Arts in Context. In her final year she was an intern dancer with Dutch-based choreographers including Marina Mascarell, Guilherme Miotto and The100Hands. She then joined the La Trottier Dance Collective in Germany and worked with Canadian choreographer Eric Trottier on their most recent production titled 1,618033. Programme: Wednesday 29 May at 9pm Townhouse Gallery, 10 El-Nabarawy Street, Downtown, Cairo Search Keywords: Short link: : LNG MainLine Theatre recently announced the lineup of this years St-Ambroise Montreal FRINGE Festival, May 27 to June 16. The festival takes over the city with over 800 performances by more than 500 artists in more than 20 intimate venues this June. Join 60 000 patrons as we celebrate Quebec, Canadian and international artists converging in the Plateau Mont-Royal for a multidisciplinary festival of theatre, music, dance, visual arts and more. UNIQUE FRINGE PRINCIPLES Diversity, community and artistic freedom No artistic direction. Artists are chosen by lottery or first-applied, first-accepted. No censorship. Artists are uncensored and have complete freedom to present anything. Accessibility to artists. Anyone can apply to the lottery. Affordability to audiences. Ticket prices are capped at $12 and 100% of that ticket price is returned to the artists you see on stage. Festivals will promote and model inclusivity, diversity and multiculturalism, and will endeavour to incorporate them into all aspects of our organizations. "Nothing screams summer more than the launch of the programming for the St-Ambroise Montreal FRINGE Festival, says Executive & Artistic Director Amy Blackmore. "Montreal has embraced the 'Spirit of the FRINGE' for 29 years now, and it's been amazing to watch the wide circle of Fringers grow year after year. If you're Fringing for the first time, I recommend you purchase a 3-show pass. Pick a hit, a recommended performance and a show at random! Fringing is more than an artistic activity, it's an international movement and, for me personally, a way of life." "The Fringe is a unique platform that allows artists and audiences to take risks, experiment, and play together, says Helen Simard, critically acclaimed choreographer and 2019 festival spokesperson. I'm honoured to be a part of this vibrant artistic community and can't wait to discover this year's shows!" Montreals biggest bilingual indie arts party is jam-packed with three programs: FRINGE After Dark (May 27 - June 16) FRINGE A-Z (June 6 -16), OFF FRINGE A-Z (May 29 - June 15) FRINGE Park (June 6-16) FRINGE audiences are encouraged to be adventurous, see a show and write their own reviews. Word-of-mouth is king at the festival, as most artists are premiering new works. Follow the conversation using the hashtag #fringebuzz to uncover this years mega hits. Loyal fans and new Fringers are invited to join organizers at 7 pm on May 27 at Club Soda (1225 Saint-Laurent) for the famous launch and preview night, the Fringe-For-All. All local companies will take the stage for two minutes teasers of their upcoming productions. The first FRINGE Festival was the Edinburgh Festival FRINGE, established in 1947 by a group of eight theatre companies prevented from participating in that years Edinburgh Festival. This inspired the creation of Canadas first FRINGE Festival, the Edmonton FRINGE Festival in 1982. A decade later in 1991, the St-Ambroise Montreal FRINGE Festival was founded on McGill Campus by Kris Kieren and Nick Morra. Over the years, the festival has grown to become an essential cultural variety pack kicking off Montreals famed summer festival season. St-Ambroise AB PIGGS PEAK It may no longer be accurate to refer to dagga as Swazi Gold. From as much as E5 000 per kilogramme or more, dagga prices have dropped to as low as E500 for the same amount. This is almost 10 times lower than the normal price. Some lucky growers are able to sell a kilogramme for about E1 200. Some of the dagga farmers, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the prices had dropped because the illicit herb was now being grown everywhere in the country. Attributed This was attributed to the ongoing hype about legalisation of the herb. Though it is still illegal to grow dagga in Eswatini, some of the growers alleged that many people who were previously not interested in growing it had now joined the bandwagon. They said in the past, the high quality dagga was grown around northern Hhohho but that this was no longer the case. You can now find a lot of dagga being grown even in Siteki, they said. During a recent destruction of the illegal herb, the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), through its Narcotics and Anti-Drug Unit, had shown that there was an increase in dagga cultivation in the Lubombo Region. No reason was given for this sudden increase. The growers complained that many people were now stranded with their dagga which they could not sell because the market was seemingly saturated. They further revealed that even low quality dagga which contains seeds, was now flooding the market. High quality dagga grown mainly near riverbanks does not have seeds as it is cultivated using high grade imported seeds. According to one of the growers, dagga was fetching as much as E5 per gramme meaning that it could fetch as much as E5 000 per kilogramme. This was possible if you could get agood market, he said. However, he said some of the buyers mainly from South Africa (SA), Botswana and Tanzania, were able to negotiate good prices. Selling He said this was not the case anymore as it seemed there was so much dagga that people were selling to get rid of it. Selling it for E500 is like throwing it away, he said. In the past, the farmers said dagga destruction by the police would help boost the prices. Since the beginning of the year, hundreds of hectares of dagga, weighing thousands of kilogrammes, had been destroyed. Despite this, there is still a lot of dagga, according to some of the farmers, who complained that this was then resulting in too much dagga on the market, leading to the plummeting of the prices. MANZINI A desire to have game meat for dinner has landed a father and his son on the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial (RFM) Hospital beds. Stanley Gamedze (40) and his son, John (17) were shot on Saturday around Mtimphofu, near Siphofaneni. Siphofaneni is a small agri-town in the Lubombo Region. According to Gamedze, they had set snares on Friday night, hoping to catch game within the forests of the area; however, when they went to check on the traps they had set, they found that nothing had been trapped. This was on Saturday morning and the place where they had set their snares is in close proximity to Mkhaya Game Reserve. He said they returned with his son to check on their snares later on in the day and found that they had been disturbed but nothing was trapped. Gamedze said following their inspection, they prepared to leave the area; only to be disturbed by a loud thud reverberating in the forests. Gamedze said the loud bang was from a shot fired by a game ranger; whom he alleged was hiding in a tree. He said one of the fired shots pierced through the right thigh of his son and missed his femur. Following this gunshot, Gamedze said he ran for dear life and hid in a thick forest. However, this did not save him as the next gunshot fired pierced through his right arm. Following this, he said: I felt dizzy as blood oozed out of my arm and I lay on the ground. I then rolled on the ground for a distance from where I was shot before I got up and started running towards my home. He said when he got to his home, he covered the torn flesh with a bandage before requesting his wife to accompany him to the nearest police station at Siphofaneni. Shot Gamedze said upon arrival at the police station, he reported that he had been shot and was taken to hospital. Meanwhile, he said his son was taken to hospital by the people who had shot him. On the other hand, John said his confinement to the hospital was depriving him of attending school as he was a Grade IV pupil at Mnotfweni Primary School. In his brief remarks, he said the bullet had been removed from his thigh while his father said: I still feel like there is something in my arm and I have relayed this to the doctors. They have advised me to return to the x-ray to establish if there are any foreign fragments. Gamedze said members of the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) had taken their statements and nothing was relayed to them. Meanwhile, Chief Police Information and Communications Officer, Superintendent Phindile Vilakati confirmed that two males were shot on Saturday. She said no charges had been laid against anyone yet as police were investigating. MBABANE The ongoing financial crisis faced by government has resulted in people with disabilities being cut off from getting grants. In the meantime, government will solely prioritise 20 people per constituency to continue getting the grants until its financial woes normalise. This was revealed by the President of the Federation of People with Disabilities in Swaziland (FODSWA), Sipho Dlamini. He explained this when addressing complaints from the organisations members, who said they were not getting their grants. Dlamini stated that he discussed the issue with Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Themba Masuku, who said the selectiveness was due to governments financial cash flow challenges. He continued to state that the Disability Act of 2018 was clear that people with disabilities should receive a grant. He said the grant to be given to the 20 people per constituency would not be from the disability grant but it was referred to as a social grant as it was money made available for those in dire need. When asked what strategy would be used to select the 20 people, Dlamini said they would be working closely with leaders of the constituencies, who will identify those who are most vulnerable to benefit. The deputy prime minister had said this programme would be done easily with the engagement of the Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development which will also be working with bucopho as they were the ones who knew the people better, stated Dlamini. Budget He said the DPM stated that once the budget was available, all people with disabilities would receive their grants. It is not to say its only the 20 who will get the grant but the starting number will be the 20 as it will then grow depending on what is available, added Dlamini. In the meantime, Dlamini said they would conduct a census solely for people with disabilities. He further touched on the issue of people with disabilities not being represented in Parliament. Dlamini said they would have loved it if people with disabilities were chosen the same way the four women from each region were elected if they were not voted for during the normal elections process. He continued to state that it was due to the absence of representatives that issues of people with disabilities were not given the attention they deserved. He mentioned that he hoped that by next elections, such will be a thing of the past. MBABANE A suspected thief has lost his life in the hands of a mob at popular hangout spot, Solanis Shisanyama. The victim had robbed a customer of his jacket, which had money, near the drinking spot and fled the scene. Information gathered from the patrons who witnessed the incident was that the suspected thief, Njabulo Sduvane Nkambule, was attacked by the mob after he was seen snatching the jacket from the customer, believed to be a South African national. It is said the jacket had money amounting to E5 000 in one of the pockets. Foreign The customer is one of the many who had visited the country over the weekend. He was driving in a foreign-registered car, hence the strong belief that he was from South Africa. When confronted, it is said that Nkambule took to his heels and ran towards Mgababa, which is a tiny populated location downhill from the hangout spot. Some members of the mob ran after him and managed to catch him before he could hide. He was caught a few metres from his place of abode. Residents who were disturbed by the noise are said to have tried to rescue Nkambule, however, it was too late as the mob allegedly took him back to the scene (Solanis) where he had snatched the jacket earlier. Sjambok Upon arrival at the scene, it is alleged that that mob assaulted Nkambule with a sjambok, kicks and fists. What is suspected to have ended Nkambules life is a gas cylinder, which he was assaulted with on the head. He is suspected to have died on the spot. The incident is said to have happened in the morning hours of yesterday. During a visit to the hangout spot at around 8am yesterday, about four police vehicles were parked outside the premises, supposedly gathering information and evidence following the incident. There were also some motor vehicles with foreign-registration plates, which were parked outside the premises. Plain-clothes police officers were seen moving in and out of the secured Solanis premises. The officers of the law were from different departments, which included Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Scenes of Crime, Serious Crime Unit (Lukhozi) and the Anti-Drug Unit. A driver of one of the foreign- registered cars drove off, leaving officers at the scene. It appeared that at the time, the corpse had already been taken to the mortuary. About six people were seen boarding one of the police vehicles and information gathered was to the effect that they were to assist the police with their investigations relating to the murder. Guards Among the people who boarded the police van were Solanis Shisanyama employees, security guards and some residents. Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati confirmed a report of a murder, which took place at Msunduza in Mbabane. Vilakati also confirmed that there were people who were assisting the police with investigations. She said four of the people who assisted with the investigations were later arrested and charged with murder. The quartet is expected to appear in court today. Also, unconfirmed reports are to the effect that the police also made attempts to trace the owner of the jacket to also assist the law enforcers in their investigations. However, it was later reported the customer had already left the kingdom back to his home country. This article was awarded the Solutions Journalism prize, co-sponsored by Transitions, at the ninth annual Czech Journalism Awards on 2 May. The goal of solutions journalism is to deliver rigorous and evidence-based reporting on responses to social problems and bring deeper insights to complex issues while keeping a critical distance and identifying the limits of the chosen approach. Petr lives in a village in the Czech Republics South Moravia region. Now 46, hes been in a wheelchair since childhood. It wasnt from a congenital disease or an accident. The doctors made a mistake when I was born. They didnt realize there were two of us in Mamas belly. My sister was born first and after a while they noticed I was still in there. As they rushed to get me out, the umbilical cord got twisted around my neck and strangled me a little. I suffered brain damage, I have muscle spasms all over my body, and I cant keep my balance. He always yearned to be in a relationship. I wanted to know what its like to have a beautiful woman by my side whom I could touch, caress, finally have at least a little erotic experience like healthy people do. But he was never able to find a partner. Three years ago, five female sexual assistants specially trained for work with the handicapped started working in the Czech Republic. When Peter heard about them, he didnt hesitate to find out more. An assistant visits him once a month. She makes it possible to experience beautiful moments, and I can chat with her about anything. She brings me at least a little bliss. I wouldnt have believed it, but she has really improved my quality of life. Physically, and most importantly psychologically, I feel much better. Breaking Down Barriers Many myths circulate about the sex lives of the handicapped. Either they are completely asexual and dont require sexual experiences, or the opposite, theyre hypersexual. Neither version is true, says Lucie Sidova, a therapist and co-founder of the non-profit association Freya. She helped launch the Czech sexual assistance program as head of Rozkos bez rizika (Bliss Without Risk), a health and counseling service for sex workers, which trained the first five professional assistants in 2015. Inspiration for the program came from similar initiatives in Germany and Switzerland. Applicants first filled out a questionnaire and then underwent a detailed interview. The most important thing was that they werent motivated just by money, that the work meant more than that. And that they were at ease with their own sexuality, says Sidova. We made the selection from women we knew and trusted. Most already had experience as paid sex workers, others as tantric or erotic masseuses. All had at one time or another had handicapped clients. Today, none of the women still works in the sex trade. 220: number of sexual assistance sessions provided last year by the five trained women. They offer erotic services and therapy to the elderly as well as the handicapped. The beginnings were rocky. This service was new and controversial. We came up against pressure from the public, people were just waiting for us to make a mistake, says Sidova. Eventually, in the fall of 2015, the Interior Ministry issued a decision that the project did not violate the law, and the sexual assistants were able to undergo training and start working, provided they didnt stray across the line into procuring. Image by Nikolai Vassiliev/Flickr. The assistants work for themselves on the basis of a trade license. Freya offers know-how and advice. Some offer only counseling, others massage, masturbation training, and mutual use of erotic aids, while others are willing to have sexual intercourse. The ethics code, while calling for mutual respect, does not exclude any practice. Maximum Satisfaction Full-figured blonde with big breasts is how Diana Lovecka presents herself to clients. The 38-year-old visits clients at their homes, in health institutions, or in hotels. On first meeting, she sits down with the client for a chat about what he expects. I may offer a shared bath, massage, mutual touching, use of sex aids, and other pleasant experiences by common agreement. I always try to go away leaving the client totally satisfied and happy. She spends one week each month in the UK, where she cares for a stroke patient. At home, in the Czech Republic, she teaches English and works as a sexual assistant in her spare time. Dos and Donts: Bliss Without Risk sought legal advice before launching the sexual assistance program to avert any accusation of procuring. Social workers are free to inform clients about the public listings of trained sexual assistants on the internet. When the client chooses an assistant, he may request the social worker to discuss certain matters with the assistant in advance and in some cases accompany him to the initial information session with her always as the client wishes, as he alone can decide which services to take advantage of. Of course, the client is free to discuss the service with anyone. Lovecka prepares for each client individually, based on his individual medical diagnosis. Its easy to go too far, she says. We have to guard against that. The assistance has to be for the clients own good. With handicapped clients, she says its usually not difficult to agree on what services she will provide: They tell me about their situation, explain what they expect. Dianas blind client likes to take full control over the session. Pictograms and images help when the client has difficulty speaking. With mentally handicapped clients I lead the process; I try to work out from their reactions what is pleasant for them. I have to go very slowly, intuitively. Diana says her biggest challenge was working with a man who was unable to communicate in any way. One customer told her about that days lunch and yesterdays horseback ride, as though unable to focus on what was happening. But from his caregiver I know that thanks to the assistance he stopped bothering the other residents in his care home. Im Not a Child We sometimes see the mentally handicapped as big children in a sexless world. Even though they may look or act like children, their sexuality hasnt stopped, it keeps developing. Sometimes caregivers dont realize this, or dont want to know, Sidova says. This can encourage inappropriate behavior masturbation in group sessions, sexual assaults or the person may fall into depression, and start to hate her or his own body. Lucie says some institutions punish expressions of sexuality or suppress it with drugs. When their caregiver says Ugh, dont do that, they should also tell them how and where they can satisfy their needs in privacy, because no one has ever told them how to do it properly. Some institutionalized people have never seen a naked body other than their own. Others are in the care of parents who reject the thought that their child has sexual needs, or arent able to allow her or him the space to satisfy those needs. There are exceptions. One older man called me, crying over the phone, thanking me for offering this service, saying no one could understand what it was like trying to deal with his autistic sons sexuality alone, Sidova recalls. Those with physical disabilities face special obstacles. For some with paralysis or twisted hands it may not be physically possible to satisfy themselves alone. Of course, they can hire a prostitute, at least if they are men. Night clubs may not have barrier-free access, but there are always escorts, if they can find one willing to do this kind of work. And so frustration grows. Different Paths to the Goal Achieving sexual satisfaction and self-expression is not always straightforward for people with disabilities. Erogenous zones can be located, even for those who lack feeling in their body: perhaps the earlobes, neck, or head. Imagination plays an important role as well. Sadomasochistic practices are important for some. Whipping, bondage, and greater pressure can help the body feel at least something, Sidova says. The right choice of erotic aid is crucial in some cases. In our courses, we teach the assistants how to choose aids for clients. Not all vibrators are the same. Men with severe mental disability sometimes prefer the anal region and may insert inappropriate objects into the rectum. So its important to know about butt plugs, how to choose them and show the client how to care for it properly, Sidova adds. There are special chairs and swings to help those with physical disabilities. No one is a lost cause. What About Women? Women, too, can use the services of sexual assistants, but there is not much demand understandably, as no men have been trained for the job so far. I know of two women who have used the service. One wrote us that she felt very safe opening up about sexuality with a woman, Sidova says. The assistant helped her find her erogenous zones with egg and ring vibrators. If a woman lacks sensation or the ability to use her hand, the assistant guides her hand, slowly moving it over her breasts and sexual organs, helping her discover her own body and arouse herself for the first time. Handicapped women may not have much longer to wait until the first male assistants start to work. Freya is planning to start training new assistants of both sexes by the end of the year. Weve had interest from masseurs and masseuses, and from nurses and social workers. Were really pleased with this, Sidova says. Freyas goal is to make the service available in all parts of the country. Caution, Fragile I ask Diana Lovecka what the hardest part of the job is. Not to take their stories too much to heart. Realize that when I leave a session, my job is over. I come into contact with a lot of different life stories and tragedies. I have to know how to let go. Shed rather talk about the positive side. If its a one-time service, its enough that the client has a smile on his face at the end. This is one of the most common effects the assistants talk about: how clients rediscover the joy in life, start laughing again. They become less aggressive. Some even find a partner among fellow residents in their institutions. In a long-term situation, its amazing to watch the client progress, Lovecka says. She tells the story of a disabled couple in a long-term relationship whom she was able to help with the physical side of sex. Of a blind man who lost his virginity with her after 30 years and finally grew out of his timidity, so that now he knows he is capable of finding a girlfriend. Or of a man with an accidental injury who stopped believing he could attract a woman or have any kind of sex life. He reaffirmed that he could still function as a man. 1,200 crowns ($60): The cost of one hours session with a sexual assistant. A big investment for someone on a disability pension out of reach for many. The assistants determined the fee themselves. They cover travel expenses from their own pockets. Its not an easy job and we cant expect them to work for less. Obviously Id like it if the service was more affordable. But you can save up for it. Some clients stopped smoking to save money, Lucie Sidova says. The ethics code for the job warns against forming emotional bonds with clients. And yet, the barrier around providing sexual assistance as a professional service is not unbreakable. Assistants make clear that they are not partners or girlfriends. But, Sidova remarks, its completely natural that a person who for a long time was unable to have a relationship might fall in love. For someone with a mental disability it could be the first time they ever have this kind of feeling. I think they deserve this. Even people with handicaps have the right to experience sadness and joy. Why should we cut them off from an emotional life? After all, every one of us has experienced disappointment in love. To keep the relationship on a businesslike level, the assistant may need to have a talk with her client or in extreme cases ask a colleague to take her place. Its already happened once, Sidova says. Next Steps Czech societys attitude toward the sexuality of disabled people has changed dramatically in the past few years. Taboos are crumbling piece by piece, although there is still a long way to go. Its hard to disagree with Sidova that everyone should enjoy the right to basic human experiences like sex, intimacy, and the closeness of another person. It would be much better if these people found a true partner, someone they could go through life with, she says. Sexual assistance is not the solution, just an avenue for those who havent been able to fulfill themselves in this way. Something like a launching pad. Petra Dlouha has been writing for Penize.cz, a finance news site, and Finmag, an online finance magazine, since 2011. She studied journalism at the Faculty of Social Sciences at Charles University in Prague. During her studies she worked as an intern at the Czech daily Lidove noviny. This article originally appeared on the Czech business news site Finmag. Reprinted with permission. Translated by Ky Krauthamer. Gulf Capital, a leading alternative asset manager in the Middle East, said that it has acquired a 70 per cent stake in Medica Holding, a top service provider of aesthetics, cosmetics and dermatology equipment and products in the region. Gulf Capital is actively targeting investments in the fast-growing beauty and healthcare sectors, which are expected to register double digit growth rates across emerging markets. In particular, the $10 billion health aesthetics market is projected to grow at 10 per cent annually over the next five years, driven by rising GDP per capita, the growing global adoption of minimally invasive and non-invasive cosmetics procedures, increased public awareness and acceptance from men and women, as well as technological advancements. Founded in 1999, Medica has evolved into a prominent end-to-end service provider in the aesthetics sector with a portfolio of over 20 international brands across 12 countries. Its services range from consulting and education to logistics and marketing across four aesthetics verticals: equipment, injectables, cosmetics and para-pharmaceuticals. Following its partnership with Gulf Capital, Medica aims to enhance its footprint in Mena region and expand across Africa and Asia via organic growth and acquisitions and to broaden its service offerings into new aesthetics verticals. Dr Karim El Solh, chief executive officer of Gulf Capital, said: We are delighted to partner with Medica, the leading aesthetics and cosmetics service provider in the Middle East and are excited to fund its ambitious growth and future expansion plans across emerging markets. Medicas track-record is one of continuous innovation and growth, and it has demonstrated its ability to pioneer aesthetics and non-invasive procedures in the Middle East for over 20 years. This investment in the dominant market leader gives Gulf Capital a strong exposure to the fast growing aesthetics and cosmetics sectors and allows us to capitalise on the growing consumer and healthcare trends in the region. Elias Chabtini, CEO and co-founder of Medica Holding, said: We are excited to embark on this new chapter in Medicas journey alongside Gulf Capital, a firm with a wealth of experience and operational expertise that will support our expansion and growth plans. The Medical Aesthetics sector is among the fastest growing sectors globally and Medica is uniquely positioned to play a key role regionally and across emerging markets. Our partnership with Gulf Capital is a major step towards reaching our goal of becoming the leading player in emerging markets as we expand across new geographies and complement our portfolio offerings with leading technologies across all aesthetic verticals. Abdullah Shahin, managing director at Gulf Capital, added: Medica has been playing a key role in transforming the non-invasive Medical Aesthetics sector across the region. This is an area that has been growing at double digit rates globally, with the GCC aesthetics market still on an earlier growth path with a projected 15 per cent annual growth rate over the next five years. We are impressed by the managements data driven approach and its ability to penetrate geographies and verticals, and we look forward to working closely with the team on this new phase of growth. Dr El Solh concluded: Gulf Capital has been particularly active over the last 18 months, with the successful closure of eight new and follow-on investments at the portfolio companies' level. The Firm has been equally productive on the exit side, having secured and closed five landmark exits during the same period. This latest investment in Medica cements our established strategy of acquiring majority stakes in market leaders in fast growing sectors. We are looking forward to a productive rest of the year as we maintain our investment pace and continue to work on a number of strategic new investments and exits in the near future. Medica is a UAE based company with regional offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Jeddah, Bahrain, Oman and Beirut as well as partnerships and joint ventures across 12 countries. The company has over 1000 unique products across 20 international Tier 1 brands and many suppliers in its portfolio. Gulf Capital was advised by Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and PwC. The selling shareholders of Medica were advised by Emirates Investment Bank PJSC and BonelliErede. TradeArabia News Service Bahrain Specialist Hospital is launching an Adult Immunization Campaign which will educate the masses on the importance of getting vaccinated. As part of the campaign, hospital will provide vaccinations at special prices; hold several public awareness events across malls, corporate, communities and at special events. Through complete vaccination adults can be protected against 14 deadly diseases such as Influenza (Flu), Rubella, Mumps, Tetanus, Measles, Chicken-Pox, HPV, Whooping Cough, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis A, Meningococcal, Diphtheria, and Pneumococcal disease. Bahrain Specialist Hospital has taken the cause very seriously and is at the forefront of creating awareness amongst masses about the benefits of immunization among adults as well as children. Millions of hospitalizations, hundreds of thousands of deaths and tens of thousands of chronic illnesses and permanent disabilities can be prevented by just following the immunization schedule, commented Dr Kasim Ardati, managing director and consultant Pediatrics Infectious Disease Bahrain Specialist Hospital. Moreover, it will also curtail the spread of diseases to the most vulnerable groups. The good news is Bahrain is doing great with almost 100% immunization rate for children and is on its way to be declared a measles free nation by year 2020 which is first in the region. To further highlight the matter, this years World Immunization Week campaign led by WHO underlined the importance of community in establishing herd immunity, increasing vaccination education and uptake, and countering vaccine hesitancy. Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) remains a leading infectious cause of serious illness among older adults resulting in hospitalization or death. Pneumococcal disease can cause severe infections of the lungs (pneumonia), bloodstream (bacteremia), and lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis). Vaccinations are the best way to prevent pneumococcal disease. All adults need an influenza vaccine every year. However, its advisable to consult your healthcare provider as there may be additional vaccines recommended for a person depending on his/her specific health status, age, and lifestyle, said Dr Kasim Ardati. Many a times, adults avoid immunization due to financial concerns. However, in reality more people falling sick from preventable diseases adds a burden on the healthcare system and economy in general and patient in particular, due to the expense on treatments. The International Federation on Ageing (IFA) believes that vaccination in at-risk groups is an important area of focus, as vaccination has the potential to mitigate higher rates of morbidity and mortality in at-risk populations and enable those who are vulnerable to age in better health. Globally, among adults over the age 70, vaccine-preventable infections such as influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia were the fifth leading cause of death in 2017. Doctors advise that every adult should also get the Tdap vaccine once if they did not receive it as an adolescent to protect against pertussis (whooping cough), and then a Td (tetanus, diphtheria) booster shot every 10 years. In addition, women should get the Tdap vaccine each time they are pregnant, preferably at 27 through 36 weeks. Throughout the adult life, people need immunizations for protection against: Seasonal influenza (flu) for all children and adults Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) for all adults who have not previously received a Tdap vaccine Shingles vaccine is recommended but is not available in Bahrain Pneumococcal for adults age 65 years and older and adults with risk conditions Hepatitis B for adults who have diabetes or are at risk Other vaccinations you need include those that protect against HPV (human papillomavirus, which can cause certain cancers), hepatitis A, meningococcal disease, chickenpox (varicella), and measles, mumps, and rubella. Unfortunately, in the recent major measles outbreak in US hundreds of people, mostly small children were infected by the super contagious virus, which was easily avoidable, had some people not rejected the vaccines because of unfounded safety concerns. We must realize that the benefits of getting vaccinated far outweigh the side effects, if any, concluded Dr Ardati. TradeArabia News Service Kanoo Shipping, one of the largest specialised shipping agencies in the region and a fully-owned business of Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo Group (YBA Kanoo), has announced the opening of a general agency office, Kanoo Shipping India, in Mumbai which will allow it to have a complete port coverage in India. The office will handle crew transfers, spare parts deliveries, customs and immigration formalities and will work closely with the Indian local authorities. Port Captaincy and Cargo Survey as well as ISO tank handling are expected to be introduced during the last quarter of 2019. Fawzi Kanoo, deputy chairman of YBA Kanoo, said: This step comes as part of Kanoo Shippings growth strategy which focuses on entering new markets. Last year Kanoo Shipping successfully strengthened its presence in the African continent through acquiring Wallem South Africa; a major provider of integrated maritime solutions, and now Kanoo Shipping is in India, one of the largest trade partners of our region and the 16th largest maritime country in the world, he added. An experienced operations and finance team will be managing the general agency office in Mumbai led by Captain Amresh Jha, Kanoo Shipping India country manager. Jha commented on the launch of operations in India by saying Kanoo Shipping India, is a ship agency house with International standards dedicated to provide excellent service quality at competitive prices. We consider ourselves the extended arm of our customers with local eyes and ears on the ground. Existing and new customers of Kanoo Shipping will benefit from an onshore experience which focuses on operational quality and cost-effective efficiency. Kanoo Shipping India, will recruit local operational expertise and will build competence through development programmes tailored for the Indian market. Nikolai Norman, chief commercial officer of Kanoo Shipping, said: We are certain our expansion into India will provide Kanoo Shipping with the necessary growth it requires. It is also a clear demonstration of our willingness to go the extra mile to meet our customers expectations. India is one of the fastest emerging markets in the world and its ports witness unprecedented traffic growth that is likely to continue for many years to come, he said. We believe that there is ample room for Kanoo Shipping, a trusted brand with more 100 years of legacy, in the Indian Ship Agency Market, he added. Kanoo Shipping operates in 20 countries, covering all principal ports and offshore terminals around the Arabian Peninsula. In addition to its fully-owned offices and joint ventures in the Arabian Peninsula, the Companys regional network operates through well-established partnerships in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique and South Africa. India has 200 notified minor and intermediate ports. Under the National Perspective Plan for Sagarmala, six new mega ports will be developed in the country. The Indian ports and shipping industry plays a vital role in sustaining growth in the countrys trade and commerce, it stated. TradeArabia News Service Oman Air signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with industry-leading event agency and professional congress organiser, MCI, to increase Mice traffic to Oman, at the recently concluded Imex Frankfurt in Germany. Worth in excess of $90 billion across the world, Mice (Meetings, Incentive, Conference and Events) is a highly lucrative segment of the tourism industry and one that Oman is actively targeting. Abdulaziz Al Raisi, chief executive officer of Oman Air, stated: Attracting new corporate meetings, conferences, incentives groups and events (Mice) is an important focus for Oman Air. The sultanate has hosted many events in recent months attracting thousands of overseas attendees. Additionally, the country has been showcased by journalists visiting Oman as well as by participants attending sporting events such as Ironman, Tour of Oman and Bike Oman, to name a few. All of these Mice events increase tourism revenues for the country. Partnering with MCI, one of the leading MICE companies in the world will only help us grow this important sector. Richard Bodin, senior vice president, Oman Air Holidays said: We are delighted to be working alongside one of the worlds leading Mice agencies. We are committed to growing this critically important business segment and with their professional approach and international reputation, we can promote Oman as an excellent venue for Mice activities. Oman has enjoyed strong success recently with some big conferences opting for the sultanate as their chosen venue and combining our efforts with MCI will further enhance our attractiveness. Ajay Bhojwani, managing director, MCI Middle East, commented: With the launch of MCI Oman and as we continue to do more and more projects in Oman, it is just the perfect time to fast track this journey of growth and aim to attract an increasing number of large conferences and events to Oman. And this surely wont be possible without a key stakeholder like Oman Air. Combining efforts with the multi-award-winning Oman Air will add huge strength to our proposals to prospective clients. With a world-class airport, excellent hotel choices and a brand new, state of the art, Oman Conference and Exhibition Centre, Oman has so much to offer. With some key projects already confirmed, we are confident of the destination further attracting large and strategic MICE events that will further enhance the growth for the country. - TradeArabia News Service Ankara UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner today concluded his first country visit to Turkey during which he met with leaders of government and business, investors, the heads of UNDP partner agencies in Turkey, and members of the diplomatic community, and opened the UNDP flagship event the Istanbul Development Dialogues. Turkey and UNDP have been partners for over 50 years and more recently Turkey has been a beacon of hope for more than 3.6 million Syrian refugees. said Achim Steiner. I appreciated the frank exchanges on the future direction of UNDPs work in Turkey and I look forward to our continued partnership. The UNDP Administrator, accompanied by UNDP Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, met with Vice President of Turkey H.E. Fuat Oktay and Minister of Foreign Affairs H.E. Mevlut Cavusoglu to discuss Turkeys continued support for UNDPs work in Turkey, the region, and globally. They also discussed the continued need for supporting Turkey in its work hosting refugees from Syria. Turkey currently hosts more than 3.6 million Syrian refugees and provides many with free access to education, health care, employment and social security. Turkey provides both immediate life support for Syrians and an opportunity for them to plan for the future. It is an exemplary model for other countries to emulate, Mr. Steiner said. The Government of Turkey has pledged an additional $4 million annually for three years towards UNDP programmes. As part of a 2011 agreement, Turkey has already contributed US$15 million towards UNDPs regional programme in Europe and Central Asia and supports the Istanbul Regional Hub and UNDPs global private sector center in Istanbul. As we look to the future, I hope we continue to build on this foundation as Turkey supports programmatic work of UNDP both at regional and global level. The latest commitments are a welcome signal of this partnership. said Mr. Steiner. UNDP has been present in Turkey for 5 decades, supporting the country in its development planning as it achieved major reforms and opened to foreign trade and finance. In Istanbul, the Administrator and his delegation also met with business representatives, stressing their role in creating innovative partnership and models to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Turkish businesses have been playing a key development role within the country and in the Balkans, Central Asia, and Caucasus, and there are significant new opportunities for them to scale up their engagement towards achieving the SDGs said Mr. Steiner. On 27 May, Mr. Steiner delivered keynote address at the Istanbul Development Dialogues on Financing for Development, speaking to more than 200 investors, business leaders, development experts and government representatives alongside Mr Naci Agbal, Head of the Strategy and Budget Presidential Office, Presidency of Turkey. If the connection can be made between the 2030 Agenda and financial markets, the SDGs are possible - in Turkey and beyond, said Mr. Steiner. Aligning trillions of dollars in private assets with public policies to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals is an urgent necessity and the way of the future, Mr. Steiner told the audience. Eritrea arrests Pentecostals for flouting ban Asmara, May 28 (UNI) More than 30 Pentecostal Christians have been detained by the security authorities in Eritrea, a religious rights group based in London has told BBC Tigrinya. According to Berhane Asmelash of Release Eritrea, they were rounded up while they were praying in three different locations in the capital, Asmara. The government banned all Pentecostal churches in 2002 and it is estimated that hundreds have been detained for their faith. Kenia Ciuro and her 11-year-old daughter, Nilda, are featured in the Netflix documentary After Maria. Premier Andrew Fahie chairs a meeting at the Seatrade Global event in Miami in April. Fahie has put on hold a measure to greatly expand residency and Belonger status in the British Virgin Islands. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close 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. Hong Kong: Health meeting held The Food & Health Bureau convened the fourth meeting of the High-level Steering Committee on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) today. The committee met to discuss the latest AMR situation and progress on the relevant prevention and control measures in Hong Kong. Secretary for Food & Health Prof Sophia Chan said the Government launched the Hong Kong Strategy & Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (2017-2022) (Action Plan) in July 2017, outlining the key areas and objectives to combat AMR. She said the relevant government departments and organisations have initiated work to implement actions outlined in the plan. The actions include issuing Guidance Notes on Antibiotic Use pinpointing different types of diseases to primary healthcare workers and holding the Regional Symposium on AMR with more than 300 delegates from the Mainland and overseas. Prof Chan noted the first-ever citywide report on antibiotics supplied to various sectors based on the wholesale supply data between 2014 and 2016 compiled by the Government was published in April 2018. The second antibiotics supply surveillance report, to be released in June 2019, reveals that the overall supply of antibiotics in Hong Kong in 2017 has dropped 8.2% when compared with 2016. "I appeal for concerted efforts of all sectors of the community in controlling AMR in Hong Kong," she added. Chaired by the Secretary for Food & Health, the steering committee was set up in May 2016 to call for collaboration, synergy and cross-fertilisation of all professional sectors in response to AMR. This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Held in the WCO Headquarters in Brussels from 22 to 24 May 2019, the WCO Global Experience-Sharing Workshop on Inward and Outward Processing Procedures (IP/OP procedures) brought together almost 40 experienced officers from all six WCO regions. The Customs Cooperation Fund (CCF) Reserves supported participation of 22 Member representatives; others participants included self-funded delegates from the capitals, as well as Brussels-based Customs attaches. In his opening remarks, Mr. Stefan Kirsch, Deputy Director for Compliance and Enforcement in the WCO, stressed the importance of better connectedness of economies to Global Value Chains (GVCs). This goal can be achieved not only by implementing trade and investment policy reforms, but also by improving Customs procedures, especially processing procedures (inward and outward processing, drawback, processing for home use, as well as processing in free zones and other economic zones). As goods now cross borders many times, first as inputs and then as final products, fast and efficient Customs procedures are essential for the smooth operation of supply chains. A country where inputs can be imported and exported (or placed under another Customs procedure) within a quick and reliable time frame is a more attractive location for foreign firms seeking to outsource production stages. Processing procedures are currently being explored more from a facilitation perspective. However, Mr. Kirsch invited the participants to share some of their experiences, if any, in the misuse of IP/OP procedures to disguise fraudulent activities. The objective of this Workshop was to explore processing procedures by sharing WCO standards (in particular Specific Annex F of the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC)) and supporting WCO tools, Members examples of legislation, procedures, IT solutions, the private sector perspective, governance frameworks, links with Special Customs Zones and Temporary Admission, and other aspects. Ultimately, the outcomes of this Global Workshop will contribute to the update of the WCO Handbook on Inward and Outward Processing Procedures, which was developed in 2017, based on the results of a dedicated survey. The Workshop raised a lot of interest, especially since this topic was not dealt with in detail at WCO level recently. Members experiences showed an interesting mix of different types of processing procedures, under different names used. On the other hand, under the term of inward processing procedures, different concepts and frameworks have been identified. The workshop revealed a great deal of variety in what is available to the economic operators in terms of benefitting from total or partial duty exemption for goods that are temporarily imported and then exported to a third country (or placed under another Customs procedure). A need for more clarity and definitions for the terms used in processing procedures was agreed amongst the participants. In addition, the private sector representatives shared a number of use cases to illustrate the benefits, as well as some of the key areas of attention and challenges faced. IT support has been identified as a critical prerequisite for successful managing of processing procedures by economic operators, but also for the monitoring of their discharge by Customs. A pilot project on the use of blockchain technology to support inward processing procedures in Customs has also been presented to the Workshop participants. Finally, the delegates were acquainted with the RKC review process and had an opportunity to already share some potential areas to be considered under the Specific Annex F, including: the scope of compensating products; IT support for automated matching of imported/exported goods with compensating products; obligation of economic operators to use IT tools to manage their IP and OP procedures; introducing benefits for AEOs, such as shorter period for the issuance of authorizations and lower guarantees; more specificity in the period of validity of the authorization; more specificity for the rate of yield and the nature of the production waste and the tax regime to be applied; more clarity on what is considered to be repair etc. The Workshop participants expressed their appreciation for this event, which was considered to be timely, especially in terms of broadening the knowledge and strengthening the international network of the respective experts in this important area of Customs business. Already hints about strong storms on New Years Day Email To : Multiple e-mail addresses must be separated with a comma character(maximum 200 characters) Email To is required. Your Full Name: (optional) Your Email Address: Your Email Address is required. By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 27, 2019 | 07:23 PM | MARSHALL COUNTY A man was arrested on multiple drug charges in Marshall County on Sunday. The Marshall County Sheriff's Office says a deputy was traveling on U.S. Hwy 68 East when he saw a vehicle in front of him weaving from center line to fog line. A traffic stop was conducted and contact was made with the driver, Terry Price. After further investigation and field sobriety tests, Price was arrested and charged with DUI 1st offense, operating on a suspended or revoked operator's license, possession of controlled substance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was lodged in the Marshall County Detention Center. By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 26, 2019 | 08:03 PM | RICHMOND This year's Kentucky Law Enforcement memorial ceremony was held Thursday to add 12 names to its wall of honor. The newest additions included 6 officers who died in 2018, including Hickman police officer Rodney S. Smith.The other officers were Pikeville Police Officer Scotty Hamilton; Barren County Sheriff's Deputy Rusty Anderson; Hopkinsville Police Officer Phillip L. Meacham; Jefferson County Sheriff's Deputy Devin A. Meriwether, Sr; and Louisville Metro Police Officer Deidre I. Mengedoht. The ceremony was conducted at the Kentucky Law Enforcement Memorial, located at the Department of Criminal Justice Training on Eastern Kentucky University's campus. The Hopkinsville Police Department presented colors, and the Lexington Police Department conducted the 21-gun salute. This year's other six historical recognitions ranged from 1889 to 1999. Historical honorees added to the memorial include U.S. Marshal Service Deputy Marshall Russell Wireman, Johnson County Sheriff's Deputy Dolie C. Harmon, Fayette County Police Officer Clifford Hall, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Officer Bernard D. Ratliff, and Lexington Police Force Officers Preston Pullen and John T. Collopy. This marks the most names added to the memorial wall for a single year since the memorial foundation was established in 1999. This year's additions bring the total number of names on the monument to 553. Lt. Gov. Jenean Hampton presented opening remarks for the ceremony. She extended her thanks to all law enforcement, whom she called extraordinary. "You stand between us and chaos," she said. "You run toward danger. You go out every day, not knowing if you will even return home. And the families that you have, especially the families of the fallen, you have a special charge and a special sacrifice that I truly appreciate." Hampton added that names on the memorial represent the best of the best, but also the heart of service that every man and woman who chooses a law enforcement career has. The Kentucky Law Enforcement Memorial monument is the only monument in the commonwealth that recognizes nearly all Kentucky peace officers who have been killed in the line of duty. Once the monument was completed in 2000, the memorial foundation expanded its efforts to include an ongoing financial endowment program, which helps Kentucky peace officers and their families with educational, medical and emergency needs. By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 27, 2019 | 06:59 PM | FRANKFORT The Kentucky National Guard hosted its annual Memorial Day observance on Monday at the Kentucky National Guard Memorial in Frankfort. Three new names were added to the memorial, bringing the total number of names on the Memorial to 272 men and women who have fallen in the line of duty since 1912. Those fallen whose names are being added to the Memorial are: Capt. Samuel Edward Gipe, 39, of Daviess County, (Oct. 24, 1916); Pvt. Ross L. McCord, 18, of Christian County, (Oct. 25, 1922); and Horseshoer Eddie Stafford, 31, of Calloway County (Oct. 14 1918). 2019 marks the 50th Anniversary of the return of Soldiers with the 2nd Battalion, 138th Field Artillery Brigade from Vietnam following a 12-month tour of duty. This years ceremony highlighted Guardsmen who fell in the line of duty during the Vietnam era. Vietnam-Veteran Col. (R) Jerry Cecil, a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army for Kentucky was the keynote speaker. Cecil reminded guests of the relevance of our memorials and why the last Monday in May is so important. While Memorial Day is a sad day, we should not forget or overlook the joy we gain from the people we remember so honorably today on this memorial. Soldiers with the 138th also presented the Colors and fired a cannon salute during the memorial service. Wang Yishi, a local sericulturist, shows traditional silk processing skill for visitors at the silk museum in Jili village of Nanxun District, Huzhou City, East China's Zhejiang Province, May 23, 2019. The museum exhibits the local sericulturist Wang Yishi's collection of tools for silkworm raising. [Xinhua/Tan Jin] Wang Yishi (R), a local sericulturist, moves a piece of exhibit into the silk museum with the help of his wife in Jili village of Nanxun District, Huzhou City, East China's Zhejiang Province, May 27, 2019. The museum exhibits the local sericulturist Wang Yishi's collection of tools for silkworm raising. [Xinhua/Tan Jin] People visit the silk museum in Jili village of Nanxun District, Huzhou City, East China's Zhejiang Province, May 21, 2019. The museum exhibits the local sericulturist Wang Yishi's collection of tools for silkworm raising. [Xinhua/Tan Jin] (Source: Xinhua) 70 percent of the Chinese startups have women taking senior roles within their company. [Tuchong] China has stood out from its peers in terms of workplace equality, thanks to the increasing population of working women and their higher participation in executive roles, industry experts said. "The number of Chinese women assuming managerial positions is much higher than the world average, indicating the country's great effort regarding gender equality at the workplace. More women in China and the rest of the Asia Pacific region should play a bigger role in world economic governance and facilitate mutually beneficial cooperation," said Yu Ping, former deputy head of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade at the APEC Women Leadership Forum 2019 held in Shanghai on Friday. A recent survey on women leadership in the tech industry released by Silicon Valley Bank showed that 70 percent of the Chinese startups have women taking senior roles within their company, which is much higher than the world average of 56 percent. In addition, half of the surveyed Chinese startups have at least one woman board member. Chinese women's success at the workplace can be seen at more than just startups. A report compiled by the Economist Corporate Network in early March said the percentage of women on senior executive committees or boards is 11 percent in China, much higher than the 3 percent in Japan or the Republic of Korea. Simon Lance, managing director at global recruitment specialist Hays, said creating a balanced and inclusive culture has benefited Hays as a whole. "People from different cultures, experience, background and mindsets can bring valuable insight and creativity to an organization. A diverse group of people can identify and define issues from different perspectives and find better solutions. It creates healthy ambition in a sales environment and we have seen the results in both individual and team productivity," Lance said. According to a Hurun survey released in early March, China topped the list with 51 women billionaires, nearly triple the number of the second-place winner, the United States. Among the world's 20 richest women, only Wu Jiajun, chairwoman of Longfor Properties, earned her wealth on her own, while all the rest 19 women were the beneficiaries of an inheritance. Rupert Hoogewerf, founder of the Hurun Rich List, said they have seen the entrepreneurship and the courage to start from scratch from these Chinese women. But he also pointed out there is still more room to improve gender equality among top entrepreneurs, as women have to achieve much more than their male peers to earn career respect or recognition. Ji Jingshu, co-founder of SAAS-based marketing solution provider EventBank, agreed there is still unjustified concern from investors when they are faced with a woman executive. "Sometimes they worry women leaders will be bound to their gender. Some might undervalue the company," she said at the APEC Women Leadership Forum. But Ji also pointed out gender is totally irrelevant when an entrepreneur aspires to make their company an industry leader. "All that matters is competence," she said. Source: China Daily Tsering Pedron speaks with patients during her visit to a nursing home in Ngari Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region. [For China Daily] Most Tibetan people regard Losar, or Tibetan New Year, as a time for family reunions, but Tsering Pedron usually spends most of the holiday treating patients at the Ngari People's Hospital in Ngari Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region. "I know it's important to be with family during such major holidays, but if I give my time to my family, how can I face the many patients who need me at any time?" said the 48-year-old director of the obstetrics and gynecology department of the hospital. She has only spent New Year with her family once over the past 26 years. Working as a senior doctor and surgeon in the hospital's Ob-Gyn department, Tsering Pedron has saved tens of thousands of lives, and she has encouraged Tibetan mothers to give birth in hospitals. Like in most places in Tibet, mothers in Ngari tend to traditionally give birth at home and not in hospitals due to dated ideas. However, the situation has improved since 2010 as many now decide to give birth in hospitals thanks to the full reimbursement of the maternity insurance policy and maternal subsidies at the hospital. "The township and village government officials have been implementing good policies for healthcare and other areas to rural people, and that was how they were gradually encouraged to go to hospital for delivery," said Tsering Pedron. This was a great step forward for healthcare in a remote region like Ngari, as the delivery of babies in hospitals reduces the incidence of maternal and newborn deaths. Moreover, by having regular hospital checkups, both the mother and baby are safe during the entire pregnancy process. "Now, more than 98 percent of people living in rural and urban areas of our prefecture go to the hospital for childbirth instead of giving birth at home, apart from a few people who live in very remote nomadic areas," she said. Since 2015, her hospital has not had maternal deaths, except for a few infant deaths. Though being a doctor is not easy, Tsering Pedron said she feels proud of herself whenever she hears the first cry of a baby or sees the smile of a mother after a successful delivery, which she finds to be the most fun part of her job. After graduating from Shandong Medical College, Tsering Pedron studied for one year in the Central Hospital of Jiading District Shanghai, and thereafter nine months in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University. In these two hospitals, she learned the knowledge and clinical experience for Ob-Gyn. As she is devoted to the safety and health of her patients, Tsering Pedron has long qualified for retirement, in which she can choose to retire after working 20 to 25 years according to the local retirement law, but she is not thinking of it now. Instead, she continues to work hard and has received different honors from different levels of governments. In 2016, she was selected as a deputy of the ninth congress of the China Communist Party of the Tibet autonomous region, and was also selected to be a deputy of the 19th CPC National People's Congress. In 2018, she was honored with the title "The Most Beautiful Doctor of China", jointly presented by the National Health Commission and China Media Group. "Gaining such honors are repayment and confidence of what I have been doing for my people, and I am overwhelmed with such great honors," she said. "I want to work some more, because I can train more young medical talent to better serve patients, and I want to contribute a little more when I can," she said. (Source: China Daily) Administrators for high street brand Select launch CVA This article is old - Published: Tuesday, May 28th, 2019 Administrators have launched a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) in a bid to save high street fashion store. Business advisory firm Quantuma has filed proposals for a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) to rescue Genus UK Ltd which trades as Select. Earlier this month it was announced that the brand which has a store in Wrexham town centre had appointed the firm as administrators. Select has 1,800 employees and operates from 169 stores across the UK, supported by a centralised head office and warehouse facilities. It traders as a value ladies fashion retailer, targeting 18-35-year-olds with up to 4,000 fashion products, and has an annual turnover of 77m. Quantumas Andrew Andronikou, Brian Burke and Carl Jackson are overseeing the process as joint administrators to the company. The administrators will continue to operate the business with support from its parent company, as they seek to rescue the business and preserve jobs. The CVA proposal does not propose the immediate closure of any of Selects stores and does not propose that any immediate redundancies are made. However it is acknowledged that some closures may take place even if the proposals are given the go ahead. A meeting has been convened for 11 June at which the companys creditors will vote on the companys future. Andrew Andronikou, partner at Quantuma, said: As joint administrators, we have arrived at the view that a CVA offers the best outcome for creditors as a whole. The proposal does not outline the immediate closure of any of the companys stores, and any immediate redundancies, however some may occur even if the proposal is approved. If the proposal is not approved, it is anticipated that the company will remain in administration and, in the event a suitable offer is not received to acquire the business, we will have to consider ceasing its trading activities. Ion Fletcher, Director of Finance & Commercial Policy, British Property Federation (BPF) comments: These situations are never easy, as property owners need to take into consideration the impact on their investors, including those protecting pensioners savings via investment into property, as they vote on the CVA proposal. Quantuma and Select engaged with the BPF before launching its CVA proposal. This has provided us an opportunity to improve understanding of property owners interests and concerns, but ultimately it will be for individual property owners to decide how they will vote on a CVA. First Minister calls for final decision referendum on UK membership of the EU This article is old - Published: Tuesday, May 28th, 2019 Mark Drakeford AM, Welsh Labour Leader and First Minister, has reacted to the weekends EU Election result by stating he believes a Brexit final decision must be made by the public in a referendum. The First Minister said: Ever since the referendum in 2016, the Welsh Government has respected the result by arguing for a form of Brexit which would protect Welsh jobs and our economy. Labour colleagues in Westminster have done the same, most recently in negotiations with the UK Government. The election of a new Conservative leader changes all of that. It eliminates the chances of any agreed form of Brexit, and it hugely increases the very real danger of a catastrophic no-deal exit from the EU. We cannot and will not stand by while that takes place. Faced with the damage of a hard-line, Tory Brexit, Welsh Labour believes that the final decision must be made by the public in a referendum. And, for the avoidance of any doubt, a Welsh Labour Government would campaign, in such a vote, for Wales to remain in the EU. We will work with any others who seek the same outcome. You can see our coverage from the local count here. Wrexhams MP welcomes Royal British Legion officials to Parliament This article is old - Published: Tuesday, May 28th, 2019 Wrexhams MP attended an event in Parliament to discuss support for the Armed Forces community in Wales. Ian Lucas MP met the Royal British Legions Wales area manager Antony Metcalfe, military veteran Chris Headon, of Bridgend, and representatives of the charity. The Legion is the nations biggest Armed Forces charity, providing care and support to all members of the British Armed Forces past and present and their families. From October 2017 to September 2018, the Legion in Wales provided more than 460,000 in grants to support members of the Armed Forces community and engaged with 9,100 people directly via its high street pop-in centres and community outreach. The Legions handy van service also completed 2,247 jobs across Wales, helping people in their own homes to live independently and with the support they require. Mr Metcalfe said: I was delighted to see Ian Lucas and we were grateful that he took the time to drop in. The Royal British Legion offers a range of welfare support all year round, to the whole Armed Forces community past and present. This event offered a great opportunity for us to spread the word about the range of services that we provide in Wales and for Mr Lucas to hear first-hand from a number for people who weve helped how we have supported them since they left the Forces. I look forward to working with him in the future to ensure the needs of our Armed Forces community are reflected in policies at all levels in Wales and the UK. Mr Lucas added: Im very proud to support the work of the Royal British Legion and was grateful to them for coming to Parliament to tell us more about the fine work they are carrying out in Wales. Wrexhams military connections are well-known, and I will always use my position in the House of Commons to give a voice to our soldiers, past and present, and their families. We must look after those who are prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Top pic: Ian Lucas, MP for Wrexham, with military veteran Chris Headon at the Royal British Legion event in Parliament. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-26 19:59:43|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close Sergei Stanishev, president of the Party of European Socialists, speaks during an interview after casting ballot at a polling station in Sofia, Bulgaria, May 26, 2019. Sergei Stanishev said here on Sunday after voting in the European Parliament elections that the social policy should become the core of the European Union (EU) policy. (Xinhua/Wang Xinran) SOFIA, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Sergei Stanishev, president of the Party of European Socialists, said here on Sunday after voting in the European Parliament elections that the social policy should become the core of the European Union (EU) policy. These elections would be of the utmost importance to the EU because the dominance of the center-right European People's Party in the European institutions over the past 20 years has imposed a policy of social restrictions, Stanishev said. "This policy needs to be changed," he added. "Social policy must become the core of the EU policy. There is a great need for this, I am convinced," Stanishev noted. In his views, Europe should be united. When a member state experienced economic, political or external difficulties, it has to get help from the rest of the EU. And Europe should not be a Europe of different speeds. "And above all, Europe must be social," he said, adding that the transformation of Europe into a social one would be of great benefit to every Bulgarian because more than 40 percent of people in Bulgaria live in poverty or in severe material deprivation. The European Parliament elections, which are held every five years, kicked off on Thursday. The results will be out late Sunday evening. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-27 23:58:20|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Five Chinese police officers and a police station have been awarded the "role model" title by the Ministry of Public Security for their outstanding performance. Two of them, Ma Jintao and Xiao Junjing, received the title posthumously. Ma was killed in a police raid in an anti-gang campaign last December in the southwestern city of Guiyang. Xiao died of a heart attack in a raid of economic crime suspects last November. The other three include a fearless de-miner, a dedicated border patroller, and a respected community police officer. Sharing the title with them are the entire team of a remote police station in Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. The ministry has been giving the title to distinguished police officers annually since 2016. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 00:03:30|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close XINING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Several wild animals including snow leopards have recently been seen in Qilian Mountain National Park in northwest China's Qinghai Province, according to the park administration. Three snow leopards, a mother and her two cubs, were spotted in Tianjun County in the Mongolian-Tibetan-Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Haixi on May 23. "The snow leopards walked slowly on the ice along the riverside. I followed them and took many photos," said Zhou Faliang, a worker in charge of monitoring the park's snow leopards. Xiong Jiji, a photographer who participated in a wildlife inspection in Menyuan Hui Autonomous County in Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, saw a figure of an animal moving quickly in front of his vehicle on May 25. "It was chubby and yellow. I thought it was a marmot at first. But his photos showed it was a Chinese mountain cat." Also known as the Chinese desert cat, the wild cat is endemic to western China. It was listed as a national second-class protected species in China and as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Records of this wild animal were seldom seen due to its secretive nature and small population size. The 50,200 square kilometer Qilian Mountain National Park, one of the pilot national parks, includes 34,400 square kilometers in Gansu Province and 15,800 square kilometers in Qinghai. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 00:13:36|Editor: zh Video Player Close BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Education has asked universities to improve administration to boost scientific research. In a circular, the ministry required simplifying procedures for reimbursement of expenses on research activities which include attending meetings, counseling, purchasing equipment and services, among others. Internet-based reimbursement is encouraged and approval will also be streamlined, according to the circular. It also demanded universities improve the system of appointing academic assistants and financial assistants for researchers, and allocate more funds to raise researchers' bonuses. The interference with scientific research must be reduced to a minimum, the circular said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 00:28:45|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close Martha Delgado Peralta (3rd L), president of the UN-Habitat Assembly, speaks at the opening ceremony of the first session of the UN-Habitat Assembly in Nairobi, Kenya, May 27, 2019. The first session of the UN-Habitat Assembly opened Monday in the Kenyan capital Nairobi as participants gather to discuss ways of improving quality of life in cities and communities amid the rapid global urbanization. (Xinhua/Lyu Shuai) by Xinhua writer Zhu Shaobin NAIROBI, May 27 (Xinhua) -- The first session of the UN-Habitat Assembly opened Monday in the Kenyan capital Nairobi as participants gather to discuss ways of improving quality of life in cities and communities amid the rapid global urbanization. The assembly, the world's highest-level decision-making body on sustainable human settlements and urbanization, has "innovation for a better quality of life in cities and communities" as its theme for its first session. It runs through May 31 and is expected to be attended by over 3,000 delegates, including four heads of state, over 40 ministers and high-level representatives from 116 countries. Speaking at the opening ceremony on Monday, UN-Habitat Executive Director Maimunah Mohd Sharif, said that 70 percent of the world's population is projected to live in urban areas by 2050, and this may pose challenges for some nations in providing basic services such as housing, transport, energy, employment, education, and health care. She warned that the increasing urbanization may also give rise to new development problems, including extreme poverty, social inequality, slum, gender-based discrimination, humanitarian crisis, climate change, high unemployment, among others. "For this reason, I appeal strongly to position sustainable urbanization at the center of development priorities, implement new urban agenda, strengthen the urban governance structure and institutions and adopt integrated sustainable urban development policies," she told her audience. "We need sustainable urbanization to ensure successful and long-term development. Therefore, understanding the trend in urbanization and how it will likely unfold is crucial for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," she added. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a video message delivered to the assembly that the first session of the UN-Habitat Assembly seeks to discuss ways of improving quality of life in cities and communities. He said that well-planned and managed cities will lead to inclusive growth, sustainable and low-emission development, while rapid and unplanned urbanization generates severe problems, including pollution, crime, inequality, disease, vulnerability, disaster, lack of affordable housing, among others. He, however, said that the urbanization also presented "great opportunities" in that globally, 60 percent of the urban infrastructure needed by 2030 is yet to be built. At Monday's opening ceremony, Martha Delgado Peralta, the Mexico government's undersecretary for multilateral affairs and human rights, was elected to be president of the first session of the UN-Habitat Assembly. She said that she would do her best with the assistance and cooperation of stakeholders to work toward the objectives of the assembly and the sustainable development goals of the United Nations 2030 development agenda. In his opening remarks, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta urged all stakeholders to support the work of the UN-Habitat, noting that the implementation of the New Urban Agenda has been slow partly because of financial and institutional constraints at the global body as well as member states' insufficient capacity to interpret, implement and report on the progress of the urban agenda. Kenyatta said societies are ill-prepared to plan effectively for the rapid urbanization that is taking place. "Addressing these challenges calls for collective international action informed by scientific research, technological and innovations," Kenyatta said when he officially opened the inaugural session of the UN-Habitat. During the first session, the assembly is expected to establish the Executive Board of UN-Habitat and elect its members, to review and approve the UN-Habitat Strategic Plan 2020-2025 and also review the progress in implementation of New Urban Agenda. The assembly is also attended by United Nations agencies, local authorities and non-state actors including civil society, youth and women group representatives, the private sector and the academia. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 02:29:35|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close RABAT, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Morocco's navy rescued 249 Sub-Saharan illegal immigrants off the northern coast, the army said Monday. The 249 immigrants, including women and children, were rescued from several inflatable boats in the Mediterranean on May 25-26 by the patrolling coastguards. They had been brought to the ports of the northern cities Ksar-Sghir, Al-Hoceima and Nador. The Moroccan government said it has thwarted more than 30,000 illegal immigration attempts since the beginning of 2019, while over 80,000 such attempts were foiled last year. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 05:00:46|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close BAGHDAD, May 27 (Xinhua) -- A clash between Islamic State (IS) militants and Iraqi farmers on Monday killed two IS militants and wounded three civilians, a local official told Xinhua. The clash broke out in the evening in the eastern province of Diyala, when IS militants attacked farmers who were harvesting wheat at the edge of al-Adhaim town in the north of the provincial capital Baquba, some 65 km northeast of Baghdad, Mohammed al-Obeidi, mayor of the town, told Xinhua. The extremist militants also set fire to the harvester machine before fleeing the scene, al-Obeidi said. The extremist IS militants recently pursued a tactic of collecting taxes from farmers or killing them and burning their farms and corps in agricultural areas across the provinces of Salahudin, Nineveh, Diyala and Kirkuk. The security situation in Iraq was dramatically improved after Iraqi security forces fully defeated the extremist IS militants across the country late in 2017. IS remnants, however, have since melted in urban areas or resorted to deserts and rugged areas as safe havens, carrying out frequent guerilla attacks against security forces and civilians. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 07:01:25|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close DUBLIN, May 27 (Xinhua) -- A delegation from the hometown of Giant Pandas in China's southwest Sichuan province held a meeting here on Monday to promote their tourism in Ireland. Nearly 100 people mainly from the tourism sector attended the promotion meeting held at Crowne Plaza Dublin, a four-star hotel in the Irish capital. During the two-hour meeting, officials from the Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of A Ba (also abbreviated as A Ba Prefecture) briefed the participants about the rich tourism resources in their region. Located in the northwest part of Sichuan province, A Ba Prefecture has a size similar to Ireland but with a much less population due to its high altitude. The region is famous for its snow mountains, lakes, rivers, waterfalls and grasslands. But what makes A Ba Prefecture most famous for is its Wolong National Nature Reserve where most of the Giant Pandas are found living in China. A Ba Prefecture also boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site called Jiuzhaigou, which is like a wonderland abundant in multi-level waterfalls, beautiful rivers and lakes as well as colorful trees and flowers. The highest mountain, called Mountain Siguniang, in the region, which measures 6,250 meters in height, holds a special attraction for mountaineers both from home and abroad. A Ba Prefecture is also attractive for its mixture of customs and traditions of different ethnic groups as there are a large number of ethnic groups living harmoniously in the region with the Tibetans accounting for 55 percent of its total population, followed by Han people (about 25 percent) and Qiang people (about 18 percent). There are also many famous Buddhism relics scattered across the region. Talking to Xinhua at the meeting, Liu Ping, Secretary of A Ba Prefecture Committee of the Communist Party of China, who heads the delegation to Ireland, said that there are more and more Chinese coming to visit Ireland in recent years and we also welcome our Irish friends to visit China, especially our beautiful A Ba prefecture where they will not only have a chance to feast their eyes with stunning scenic spots but also to feel the warm hospitality of the A Ba people. At Monday's A Ba Prefecture tourism promotion meeting, a representative from Boyne Valley Tourism, a tourism agency, also briefed the Chinese delegates and the participants about the tourism resources in Boyne Valley, a famous tourist site about 20 minutes' drive north of Dublin. Last year an estimated 100,000 Chinese visited Ireland whereas the number of Irish visitors to China is much less than that. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 08:57:08|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close WELLINGTON, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A total of 35 people were arrested and more than 1 million New Zealand dollars (650,000 U.S. dollars) worth of assets seized following investigations into methamphetamine distribution in Wellington District, announced New Zealand Police on Tuesday. Since August 2018, Wellington Police have targeted two syndicates involved in what is believed to be the distribution of millions of dollars' worth of methamphetamine into the wider Wellington community. As a result, 31 men and 4 women aged between 23 and 42, from around the Wellington and Central Districts, had been arrested, confirmed by a police media release on Tuesday. More than 200 charges will be laid in relation to offending that includes distribution of methamphetamine and cannabis, money-laundering and firearms offending. More than 100 police officers were involved in the investigation, with the aim of disrupting these criminal groups who had been causing significant harm in local community, said the local police. Detective Inspector Darrin Thomson of the Wellington Drugs and Organised Crime team said: "we believe our action will have seriously disrupted the commercial drug operation of these syndicates across the Wellington region." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 10:16:23|Editor: zh Video Player Close An Irish tourism agency representative speaks at a tourism promotion meeting held by a delegation from the Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of A Ba (also abbreviated as A Ba Prefecture) in Dublin, Ireland, May 27, 2019. A delegation from the hometown of Giant Pandas in China's southwest Sichuan province held a meeting here on Monday to promote their tourism in Ireland. (Xinhua) Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 10:07:46|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close KHARTOUM, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Deputy Chairman of Sudan's Transitional Military Council (TMC) Mohamed Hamdan Daqlu on Monday said the TMC does not mind holding early elections within three months to hand over power to the people rather than other trends with specific agenda. Daqlu made the remarks when addressing police forces at the College of Police Science and Law in Khartoum Monday. "The elections tend to select a government from the people and not from these people," said Daqlu, referring to the opposition Alliance of Freedom and Change. He stressed that participation in the government would be based on percentage of representatives of the party. Daqlu accused the alliance of attempting to exclude the army and the regular forces from the political scene. The talks between the TMC and the opposition have been locked in stalemate over representation in the sovereignty council and its chairmanship. The TMC is tasked with running the country's affairs following the ouster of former President Omar al-Bashir. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 10:33:09|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close by Xinhua writers Tang Ji, Ying Qiang PARIS, May 28 (Xinhua) -- The United States is challenging the sovereignty of other countries by overstretching its jurisdiction and applying unilateral sanctions, said a French senator. "France does not wish for a power logic in which one questions the forces of the other, and says to oneself that if one's own forces are superior, you then have the right to put the other countries in difficulty," Philippe Bonnecarrere told Xinhua in a recent exclusive interview. The senator made the remarks against the backdrop of Washington's increasing inclination to exercise the so-called long-arm jurisdiction and throw its weight around against other countries. In the name of protecting domestic industries, the United States has placed steep tariffs on billions of U.S. dollars' worth of products from its major partners, including the European Union (EU) and China. In the latest flare-up in trade tensions with China, Washington increased additional tariffs on 200 billion U.S. dollars' worth of Chinese imports from 10 percent to 25 percent earlier this month, and threatened to raise tariffs on more Chinese imports. It has also imposed restrictions on the sale and transfer of U.S. technologies to Chinese telecom giant Huawei. Such unilateralist moves have given rise to a growing chorus of concern that the United States is trampling on international norms, shaking the foundation of the global trading system and jeopardizing world economic growth. France is not favorable to Washington's tariff hikes and Huawei ban, said Bonnecarrere, head of the European Affairs Committee of the French Senate. "Nothing can be done on the basis of the weakening of one country by another country. We will have only misfortune to expect from the humiliation of a people by another people," he stressed. The EU-U.S. relations is also overclouded. "Historically, there was shared perspective between Europeans and Americans," said Bonnecarrere. "We have discovered with stupefaction that this world had changed." Referring to his October 2018 report of "Extraterritoriality of American sanctions: what responses from the European Union?", he said the report began in the context of a crisis in EU-U.S. ties. "On the one hand the United States no longer considers the European Union as a friend but rather as a competitor for global economic leadership," he said. "On the other hand, we have also returned to a world of power dynamics here where historically the European Union was constructed on the idea of a balance between states," he added. To the French senator, such U.S. moves such as withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal and slapping extraterritorial sanctions have all cast shadows on the transatlantic relationship. Noting that the United States has developed a set of rules concerning anticorruption, taxation, investment and arms exports that have major impact on firms in other countries, Bonnecarrere said a diplomatic challenge to the independence of the EU and its member states has been launched. Thanks to economic globalization, large European firms all have capital from different countries, including the United States, and due to Washington's threat of sanctions, they have to comply with American rules, he explained, adding that it is in this sense that the EU is seeing its sovereignty called into question. "The obsession with power relations is mortifying in light of our history," said the senator. In his report, Bonnecarrere suggested three ways for the EU to respond to the extraterritoriality of American laws. "The first response that I advise with all my conviction is to carry on with the construction of the European Union," he said. "The second response is to use as much as possible our currency, the euro. The euro must be an exchange currency and not only a reserve currency." "Our third response," he added, "would be to once again find around the world a culture of negotiation, the ability to negotiate, in short, multilateralism." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 10:48:27|Editor: zh Video Player Close BUENOS AIRES, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Higher U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports are bound to disrupt global value chains, said Argentine economist Raul Ochoa in a recent interview with Xinhua. What they will not do is fix the U.S. trade deficit, as Washington claims they are meant to do, said Ochoa, an advisory member of the Argentine Council for International Relations. Under an "America First" policy, the United States has placed steep tariffs on billions of U.S. dollars' worth of products from its major partners, including the European Union (EU) and China, shaking the foundation of the global trading system. In the latest flare-up with China, Washington increased additional tariffs on 200 billion U.S. dollars' worth of Chinese imports from 10 percent to 25 percent earlier this month, and threatened to raise tariffs on more Chinese imports. "This seriously affects the international market, because we are talking about the two countries with the largest trade exchange worldwide," Ochoa said. "Value chains will become more costly," he said, emphasizing that should the world's two biggest economies fail to reach an agreement, the entire multilateral trading system could be at stake. "In general, it darkens the global economic outlook, because with these types of situations you know where they begin but not where they will end," said Ochoa. "The reality is that it adds more uncertainty to a complex international panorama." While Washington has claimed to spend the money raised by the tariffs in ways that will help Americans, the measure will hurt U.S. consumers who will have to pay more for a wide range of goods, he said. Actually, it means higher prices for American consumers, in addition to possible retaliation by the Chinese government, said Ochoa. The White House has other options if it really wants to address domestic economic problems without undermining the multilateral trading system, said the economist. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 11:08:39|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close BRUSSELS, May 27 (Xinhua) -- The European Council "firmly rejected" the claim that the EU car exports threaten the U.S. national security, an official said Monday. "The (European) Council welcomes the U.S. decision to postpone tariffs on imported cars by 180 days, but firmly rejects the notion that EU car exports are a national security threat to the U.S.," said Stefan-Radu Oprea, minister for business environment, trade and entrepreneurship of Romania, at a council meeting concerning trade issues. "The EU is ready and willing to engage in constructive talks," he added. In April, the European Council approved mandates for the European Commission to open negotiations with Washington on the elimination of tariffs for industrial goods and on conformity assessment, in line with a joint statement published by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and U.S. President Donald Trump in July 2018. On May 17, Trump signed a proclamation setting a six-month deadline for the United States to reach a deal with the EU and Japan to "address the threatened impairment of the national security with respect to imported automobiles and certain automobile parts." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 12:26:34|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close NEW DELHI, May 28 (Xinhua) -- At least 11 government force personnel were wounded on Tuesday after Naxals triggered an improvised explosive device (IED) blast targeting them in eastern Indian state of Jharkhand, officials said. The attack was carried out in Kuchai area of Saraikela Kharsawan district, about 140 km south of Ranchi, the capital city of Jharkhand. "Early today at around 5:00 a.m. local time, Naxals triggered an IED here targeting a joint contingent of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and police, wounding 11 personnel," a police official said. "The joint team was carrying out a search operation in the area," the police added. According to officials, of the 11 wounded personnel, eight belonged to CRPF's special jungle warfare unit - Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), while three are policemen. Officials said the wounded personnel were airlifted to Ranchi for treatment. Following the attack, a massive search operation was launched to trace the attackers. However, reports said the Naxals managed to escape. Earlier this month, 15 policemen and a driver were killed after Naxals triggered an improvised explosive device (IED) blast targeting their vehicle in India's western state of Maharashtra. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 12:46:39|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close KABUL, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A total of 14 Haqqani militants were killed in separate military operations in two eastern Afghan provinces on Tuesday, the command of special forces said. "The Afghan National Defense and Security Forces launched successful operations in Ghazni and Paktia provinces early Tuesday. As a result, 14 Haqqani network militants were killed," Afghan National Army Special Operations Corps said in a statement. The Haqqani network, which was designated as a terrorist group by the United States in 2012, is a military wing of Taliban militant group. The statement added that nine Haqqani militants, including a divisional commander of the group, were arrested by the security forces. Security forces also destroyed amount of weapons and ammunition following the raids. The network has not made comments on the report yet. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 13:01:46|Editor: zh Video Player Close BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) -- If you lost your wallet, credit card and cellphone in an earthquake, how could you get some money from a bank for emergency purposes? Blockchain and facial recognition technologies are the answer. One could get a small amount of money from some banks' ATMs via a project called United Aid Net (UAN) based on previous input of your unique information such as facial features. The UAN project was developed by a Chinese team called Green Coder, which made it into the top five winners of IBM's Call for Code 2018 Global Challenge, a worldwide developer competition that seeks technology solutions for natural disaster preparedness, response and recovery. "We are glad to see that a growing number of Chinese coders and companies are using technology to do something good," said Bill Ni, head of IBM Greater China Group's developer ecosystem & digital platform. A total of 15 Chinese enterprises and institutions joined the Call for Code initiative last year, and this year has so far seen over 20 new Chinese participants, according to Ni. "Technology for good" is becoming a popular idea among China's tech firms, as emerging technologies ranging from artificial intelligence (AI) to cloud computing are showing society-transforming power. "AI brings convenience to human beings, together with philosophical, ethical and practical risks and challenges. We need to establish correct technological values as technologies evolve rapidly," Seng Yee Lau, Senior Executive Vice President with Tencent, said at a recent conference. The tech giant earlier this month unveiled an AI sign language translation platform to serve people with hearing loss. As the user faces the camera and their sign language can be converted into words in almost real time. E-commerce giant Alibaba in March set up a philanthropic committee to encourage more of its engineers to use their technical expertise to serve the society. The call for "technology for good" is rising in volume among Chinese firms. Many national lawmakers and political advisers from the tech arena advocated more applications of technologies for public good during the "two sessions" in March. Wang Xiaochuan, CEO of search engine and AI company Sogou, called for safe opening of more data in education, medical services and old-age care to benefit the public with smart solutions. Internet company NetEase's chairman and CEO William Ding suggested that internet technologies can be further used to improve education quality in rural areas by measures such as building a digital school staffed by high-caliber teachers from cities. "More and more Chinese companies come to be aware that corporate social responsibility is not only about donations, but also about innovative cooperation to leverage their technological expertise for social good," observed Jim Lin, director of IBM Greater China Group's brand, communications and citizenship business. Technologies have a lot to help on many social fronts, and disaster relief is one key field, according to Zhang Yong, head of China's non-governmental humanitarian organization, Blue Sky Rescue. "I hope that AI sensors can be developed to help rescuers detect victims and potential dangers. Systems that can collect, update and coordinate information will also be of great help for us," Zhang said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 14:32:41|Editor: Yang Yi Video Player Close SHENZHEN, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A new air route linking China's tech hub Shenzhen in southern Guangdong Province with Rome, Italy, will be launched on Thursday, according to Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport. Operated by Hainan Airlines with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the outbound flight is scheduled to depart Shenzhen every Thursday and Sunday at 1:30 a.m. and arrive in Rome at 8:10 a.m. local time. The return flight will take off at 11:25 a.m. and land in Shenzhen at 5:20 a.m. next day. When this new route opens, Shenzhen will have 650 international flights to 29 Asian cities and 21 cities in other continents every week. In the meantime, the city will have direct flights linking nine ASEAN countries and air links with 31 cities in 16 Belt and Road countries. Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport started operation in 1991. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 15:13:12|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the 2019 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS), which opened Tuesday in Beijing. "With the deepening of economic globalization, trade in services has become a key part of international trade and an important area for economic and trade cooperation among nations, injecting new impetus to the world economic growth," Xi said in the letter. Noting that there are broad prospects and huge potential for the development of service trade, he called on countries to seize the opportunity and work together to forge a bright future of global services with mutual, shared benefits. Xi stressed that China is committed to promoting higher-standard opening up, firmly upholds the multilateral trading system, and will expand market access for foreign capital in broader areas and create a first-class business environment. China is willing to deepen cooperation on service trade and investment with other countries, promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and make economic globalization more open, inclusive, and balanced so that all share its benefits, Xi said. He said he hopes delegates and guests at the fair deepen exchanges, build consensus, and strengthen cooperation to contribute to the prosperity of global trade in services and the building of a community with a shared future for humanity. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 15:44:43|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close Sebastian Kurz attends a session of Austria's lower house of parliament in Vienna, Austria, May 27, 2019. Lawmakers in Austria's lower house of parliament, the National Council, approved on Monday the motion of no confidence against Chancellor Sebastian Kurz and his cabinet. What happened on Monday also makes Sebastian Kurz - at least for the time being - the shortest serving Chancellor of the Second Republic. (Xinhua/Guo Chen) Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 15:43:27|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close THE HAGUE, May 28 (Xinhua) -- The development of the Sino-Dutch relations has brought tangible benefits to both peoples and promises greater potential for further cooperation in a wider scope of fields, Chinese Ambassador to the Netherlands Xu Hong has said. In a recent interview with Xinhua, Xu called on both countries to implement the consensuses reached by their leaders, promote pragmatic cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and create favorable conditions for bilateral exchanges and cooperation in all fields. Xu noted that an upcoming visit by Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan at the invitation of Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is an important event of high-level exchanges. The bilateral ties, which have been growing continuously and rapidly in recent years, have entered its best period in history. "We both attach greater importance to our relations as bilateral cooperation grows deeper and wider, as evidenced by close high-level interactions, deepening practical cooperation in all fields and high-quality people-to-people exchanges," the diplomat said. The two countries have maintained frequent and close high-level exchanges, and the deepening political mutual trust has "shed light on" the development of the ties, he said. Xu pointed out that bilateral cooperation has become wider and deeper in recent years, particularly since the launch of the BRI. In 2018, bilateral trade volume amounted to about 85.2 billion U.S. dollars, a record high. The Netherlands is China's second largest trading partner in the European Union. Several express railways linking the two countries are in operation. Half of Chinese container ships to Europe make their first call at the Port of Rotterdam. Pragmatic cooperation is fruitful and keeps going forward. "Open cooperation, mutual benefit and win-win strike as powerful notes in our relations," said Xu. As to people-to-people exchanges, the diplomat stressed "high quality" as the key. Great Panda Wu Wen and Xing Ya have been residing in the Netherlands for over two years and won numerous fans. About 100 direct passenger and cargo flights connect Amsterdam and seven Chinese cities every week. Every year some 350,000 Chinese tourists travel to the Netherlands. Chinese cultural center in The Hague and more than 10 Confucius Institutes and Confucius Classrooms have been established. Frequent and close exchanges are underway in culture, eduction, arts and sports. Xu noted the two countries have a long history of friendly exchanges, and set an example of mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation. Meanwhile, both countries firmly uphold multilateralism and free trade. "Facing the disturbing turbulence of unilateralism and protectionism, as well as risks brought by numerous factors of uncertainty, by strengthening our cooperation, we will contribute to the consolidation of the dike defending multilateralism, free trade and a world economy based on openness, to the maintaining of international trade system, and to the stability and development of the world," he said. China and the Netherlands joining hands can also help address common challenges such as climate change and the aging problem, he added. The Chinese diplomat pointed out that Chinese authorities recently announced new measures to deepen reform and opening-up. In April, President Xi Jinping announced at the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation that China will promote a new round of high-level opening-up, strengthen international cooperation in intellectual property rights protection, increase imports of goods and services on a larger scale, and more effectively coordinate on international macroeconomic policies. In March, China passed the Foreign Investment Law, which has improved the management and protection of foreign investors. Xu said the aforementioned measures will surely create a better legislative and policy environment for promoting economic and trade cooperation, in which Dutch enterprises operating in China will find even more opportunities and support. The ambassador said he hopes that the Netherlands will work with China to provide an open, fair and non-discriminative environment for investors of the two countries, deepen the understanding and friendship between the two peoples, and promote a continuous and solid growth of bilateral ties based on mutual respect and mutual benefit. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 15:48:31|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close PHNOM PENH, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia's National Assembly President Samdech Heng Samrin left here on Tuesday for a five-day visit to Vietnam and Laos in a bid to further enhance ties and cooperation. During his stay in Hanoi from Tuesday to Thursday, Samrin will hold a bilateral meeting with Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan, chairwoman of the Vietnamese National Assembly, and pay courtesy calls on General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President Nguyen Phu Trong and Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, said a National Assembly's statement. "A cooperation document between the two National Assemblies will be signed during the visit," the statement said. On Thursday, Samrin will head to Laos for a bilateral meeting with Lao National Assembly President Pany Yathotou and a courtesy call on Lao President Bounnhang Vorachit, it said. Samrin will return home on Saturday in the afternoon, said the statement. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 15:48:34|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close NANJING, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A high-voltage cable tunnel equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology and the Internet of things has been put into operation in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, according to its developer. The cable tunnel stretches 5.879 km in the urban area of Nanjing. To facilitate inspection and maintenance, the State Grid Nanjing Power Supply Company has conducted digitalization upgrading of the tunnel. The upgraded tunnel is equipped with various sensors to monitor temperature, humidity and partial discharge. More than 800 sensors of 53 types in the cable tunnel collect data in real-time and the information is automatically integrated, making it available for follow up and control of the tunnel as well as the powerline, according to Zhao Xuan, the project manager. Workers are able to collect various data from the tunnel at the comprehensive monitoring center. The data on water level information, environmental information and traffic flow measured by electronic manhole covers can also be shared with relevant departments, Zhao said. The tunnel is also equipped with fire-detecting robots that work 24/7. Robots equipped with fire-fighting devices can march in the tunnel at a speed of two meters per second and arrive within one minute in case of a fire. Smart technologies will greatly improve the work efficiency and the early warning system for safety hazards, Zhao said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 16:14:07|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close CANBERRA, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Australia's energy minister on Tuesday called on the opposition to back the ruling coalition's climate policies, rejecting the call for new emission reduction target. Angus Taylor, who was appointed minister for energy and emissions reduction in the re-elected government on Sunday, told Fairfax Media on Tuesday that the incumbent Liberal-National Party Coalition (LNP) was handed a "clear mandate" to implement its own policies. Speaking to reporters after he was elected as the leader of the opposition Australian Labor Party (ALP) unopposed on Monday, Anthony Albanese called on the two major parties to work together on a consensus position on reducing emissions. The ALP had promised to reduce emissions by 45 percent from 2005 levels by 2030 if it won the election, while the LNP made no emissions reduction promises beyond Australia's existing international obligations. "We're firmly committed to the policies we took to the election. We now have a clear mandate to implement those policies - and we'll be doing so," Taylor said. "Labor should adopt our plan, which was supported by the Australian people, and I know industry wants to see bipartisanship. Now's the opportunity." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 16:44:28|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close NEW YORK, May 27 (Xinhua) -- China's remarkable development during the past decades has been done in a fair, reasonable way, and the United States should stop making China a "scapegoat" for its own problems of inequality, said a world-renowned U.S. expert. "China has been playing by Western rules for the past 40 years, gradually catching up the way that America's Asian allies did in the past," Jeffrey David Sachs, a senior UN advisor and director of the Center for Sustainable Development at the New York-based Columbia University, wrote in an article published on CNN's website over the weekend. But now the United States is trying to stop China's development by "changing the rules of international trade abruptly and unilaterally," which could "prove to be disastrous for both the United States and the entire world," noted the economics professor. Titled "China is not the source of our economic problems -- corporate greed is," the article summarizes China's contemporary and modern history dating back to the 19th century, which Sachs said was dominated by "geopolitical setbacks and related economic failures." What China has done is merely trying to make up for its "lost time," wrote Sachs, adding that "it is not doing anything particularly unusual for a country that is playing catch up." More importantly, the sustainable-development expert elaborated, to blame China for the loss of domestic jobs in the United States simply ignored the huge benefits brought by bilateral trade. "To accuse China of unfairness in this is wrong -- plenty of American companies have reaped the benefits of manufacturing in China or exporting goods there," noted Sachs, adding that U.S. consumers enjoy higher living standards as a result of China's low-cost and increasingly high-quality products. "A trade war with China won't solve our economic problems," he continued. Instead, the United States should let its own people "share the benefits of economic growth" in a way that "the winners who benefit compensate the losers." It was not the first time that Sachs expressed such views. At a seminar jointly held by the China General Chamber of Commerce USA and the Standard Chartered Bank earlier this month in New York, Sachs, as a guest speaker, lauded China's "catching up" in the past 40 years as the "fastest economic development in the history of the world," which is based on "good economics" and something that the world should be happy about. Accusing China of having "cheated its way" to rapid growth is "simply false" and a completely uneducated understanding of China's development, the expert noted at the seminar. "China is effectively catching up, and it's doing it in a smart way, and it's doing it in a normal way and it's doing it in a peaceful rule-based way." The rhetoric of labeling China as an "enemy" of the United States got heated up recently, partly through some columns on several domestic publications by some writers who "probably have never been to China," he continued in the speech. Such a view is dangerous and should be resisted to prevent the general public from getting misled, he stressed, adding that the U.S.-China bilateral ties cannot afford serious miscalculation as the two largest economies have a "decisive influence" on the future of the world. "This is a very important time for China-U.S. relations, and we had better get this right," Sachs said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 16:44:30|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close TOKYO, May 28 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump, who is on a visit to Japan, on Tuesday expressed his sympathies to the victims of a mass stabbing attack on school children near Tokyo early in the day. "On behalf of the first lady and myself, I want to take a moment to send our prayers and sympathy to the victims of the stabbing attack this morning," Trump said during a visit to a Maritime Self-Defense Force base. "All Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and for their families," Trump said from the base in Yokosuka, close to Tokyo. An elementary school girl and a man in his 30s were pronounced dead after a stabbing rampage against a group of school children who were waiting for their bus early Tuesday morning in a residential area near Noborito Station in Kawasaki City, which lies to the west of Tokyo. The assailant, a man believed to be in his 50s, also died after stabbing himself in the neck. Fifteen other school children were injured in the rampage. Local police said among those injured, two girls and a woman in her 40s are being treated for serious injuries. Trump's words of condolence came on the last day of his four-day state visit to Japan. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 17:40:30|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A fierce gunfight between militants and Indian troops Tuesday broke out in restive Indian-controlled Kashmir, police said. The gunfight erupted at village Kachwan of Anantnag district, about 85 km south of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir. "Today a gunfight started between militants and joint contingents of police, paramilitary and army inside forest area of Kachwan-Kokernag here," a senior police official posted in Anantnag told Xinhua. "Two to three militants are believed to be trapped in the area." Officials said the village was cordoned off following specific intelligence information suggesting the presence of militants. "Exchange of fire in underway from both the sides and further details are awaited," the police official said. Last week a top militant commander and head of al-Qaida affiliate Ansar Gazwatul Hind, Zakir Musa, was killed in a gunfight in the region. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 17:55:37|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close NAIROBI, May 28 (Xinhua) -- The UN on Monday hailed China's rural development model that has reduced poverty as well as reversed rural urban migration. Remy Sietchiping, head of the regional and metropolitan planning unit at UN-Habitat, told Xinhua in Nairobi on Monday that the development in Songyang County in the southwest of Zhejiang province has transformed the rural area by adopting low cost innovations. "The rural transformation model has indicated that villages can have a high standard of living," Sietchiping said during the international guidelines on urban and territorial planning and health event at the first UN Habitat Assembly. Songyang is a mountainous county that has preserved all the practices of agricultural civilization. Sietchiping said that through value addition of locally available resources, Songyang County has become one of the most livable regions in China. He noted that farmers in the rural areas have also been linked to global consumers through the use of an e-commerce platform. The UN-Habitat official noted that life in rural areas is also more desirable in China because it has less pollution and rural residents tend to have more disposable income as compared to their urban counterparts. Wang Jun, Mayor of Songyang County, said that rural revival in Songyang seeks to equilibrate urban and rural relationships through building healthier human settlements. He observed that in recent years Songyang has adopted the notions of active protection and organic development, noting that the county aims to alleviate pressure associated with cities by putting in place a number of innovative measures. Wang said that Songyang county hopes to revitalize the rural economy by implementing ecologically-friendly agriculture and cultural tourism in order to integrate all levels of development. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 18:05:52|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close CHENGDU, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Nobel laureate and German biochemist Robert Huber has set up a workstation in China, with aims to develop cutting-edge technologies in healthcare industry and apply those technologies in practice. Huber unveiled the workstation in Chengdu, capital of southwestern Sichuan Province, on Monday, expressing the hope that the cooperation will help make achievements in biomedical industries. The workstation is expected to help tap top talent resources to facilitate high-quality projects related to the healthcare industries. Known for his contribution in the formulation of the "three-dimensional structure of a photosynthesis reaction center", Huber shared the Nobel Prize in Chemistry with Johann Deisenhofer and Hartmut Michel in 1988. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 18:05:55|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close PHNOM PENH, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia provided a Chinese language training course for 120 Chinese tour guide teachers on Tuesday in a bid to improve the quality and capacity for Chinese-speaking tour guides. Co-organized by Cambodia's Ministry of Tourism, the ASEAN-China Center, and Yunnan College of Tourism Vocation, the three-day course was held in northwestern Siem Reap province by Cambodian Tourism Ministry Secretary of State Pak Sokhom and ASEAN-China Center's Secretary-General Chen Dehai. Sokhom said the course was held timely and in line with the ministry's human resource development plan for the tourism industry. "The training course is very important to strengthen the capacity of Chinese tour guide teachers, as the number of Chinese tourists to Cambodia has increased rapidly," he said. China is the largest source of foreign tourists to Cambodia. Two million Chinese tourists visited Cambodia in 2018, up 67 percent from a year earlier, said a Cambodian tourism report, adding that during the first three months of 2019, some 683,436 Chinese visitors came to the kingdom, up 35 percent over the same period last year. Cambodia's Tourism Minister Thong Khon said recently that the Southeast Asian nation was expected to attract 3 million Chinese tourists in 2020 and up to 5 million in 2025. Cambodia is famous for three world heritage sites - the Angkor archeological park, the Preah Vihear temple and the Sambor Prei Kuk archeological site. Besides, it has a pristine coastline stretching 450 km in four southwestern provinces of Koh Kong, Preah Sihanouk, Kampot and Kep. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 18:21:11|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close Andre Dzikus (R), coordinator of urban basic services branch at the UN Habitat, speaks during an interview with Xinhua in Nairobi, Kenya, May 28, 2019. The United Nations on Tuesday warned that poor waste management threatens human settlement globally. Andre Dzikus said that inadequate waste management coupled with increasing urbanization and population growth is becoming a major threat to humanity. "We are calling on city authorities to join 'Waste wise cities campaign' to help them provide basic urban services that are crucial to creating a better quality of life of populations," Dzikus told journalists on the sidelines of the ongoing first UN-Habitat Assembly in Nairobi. (Xinhua/Li Yan) NAIROBI, May 28 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations on Tuesday warned that poor waste management threatens human settlement globally. Andre Dzikus, coordinator of urban basic services branch at the UN Habitat, said that inadequate waste management coupled with increasing urbanization and population growth is becoming a major threat to humanity. "We are calling on city authorities to join 'Waste wise cities campaign' to help them provide basic urban services that are crucial to creating a better quality of life of populations," Dzikus told journalists on the sidelines of the ongoing first UN-Habitat Assembly in Nairobi. Dzikus revealed that 2 billion people currently do not have access to municipal solid waste collection services while another 3 billion people lack access to controlled waste disposal facilities. He warned that if not addressed, dumpsites will produce 8-12 percent of the global anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions by 2025. The UN official, however, noted that sustainable and integrated waste management can be a main driver in meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) goals 11 through the creation of green jobs, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and improvement of air, soil and water quality. "We hold trainings on financing and develop an open waste database and report and report on collected data for cities and local governments joining the campaign," he said. The UN agency wants to raise global awareness for sustainable waste management through advocacy and education campaigns. Dzikus said that an advisory group has been set up with membership drawn from the UN agencies, governments, private sector, cities, waste management entrepreneurs and local governments. "The group will support the campaign through strategic advice, outreach to the stakeholders and offering periodic assessments," he added. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 18:31:15|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close MOSCOW, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Two Chinese citizens were killed and many injured in a bus crash in Russia's far eastern Primorye territory, the Center for Consular Assistance and Protection of the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Tuesday on its social media account. A tourist bus, from Dongning City of China's Heilongjiang Province to Russia's port city of Vladivostok, overturned near the city of Ussuriysk at 16:30 local time (0630 GMT) on Tuesday, it said. Chinese Consulate General in Vladivostok has sent staff to the accident scene, it added. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 18:36:18|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close ULAN BATOR, May 28 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a loan of 38 million U.S. dollars on Tuesday to help Mongolia develop ecotourism, the bank said. The lending marks ADB's first project loan designed to help Mongolia focus on tourism and the management of protected areas, such as the Khuvsgul Lake National Park and the Onon-Balj National Park. The loan is expected to benefit around 11,000 residents, and improve local environmental conservation as well as climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts. "Tourism is the largest and fastest growing sector of the global economy, and Mongolia's magnificent landscapes and unique heritage can capitalize on this," said Mark Bezujien, a senior ADB environment specialist for East Asia. "That said, ADB's support will help ensure that tourism growth in Mongolia benefits local residents and preserves fragile environments over the long term," Bezujien noted. Mongolia has set a goal of welcoming 1 million foreign tourists and earning 1 billion U.S. dollars from tourism in 2020. The Asian country attracted a total of 529,370 foreign tourists in 2018, up 11.01 percent from the previous year, according to the country's Environment and Tourism Ministry. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 19:11:41|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, meets with overseas Chinese representatives who are in Beijing to attend the ninth Conference for Friendship of Overseas Chinese Associations and a plenary session of the board of directors of the China Overseas Friendship Association at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, May 28, 2019. Other Chinese leaders including Wang Yang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, were also present at the meeting. (Xinhua/Li Xueren) BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping on Tuesday met with overseas Chinese representatives who are in Beijing to attend the ninth Conference for Friendship of Overseas Chinese Associations and a plenary session of the board of directors of the China Overseas Friendship Association. On behalf of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the State Council, Xi, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, expressed a warm welcome and sincere congratulations to the representatives and extended greetings to overseas Chinese around the world. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 19:32:08|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIRUT, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A new batch of Chinese peacekeepers joined the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) Monday following the 17th Transfer of Authority (rotation) ceremony in Lebanon's southern village Hinnieh near the port city of Tyre. Stefano Del Col, head of mission and force commander of the UNIFIL, oversaw the Transfer of Authority from Shi Honghui, commander of the 17th Chinese Peacekeeping Operation Force, to Gao Chaoning, commander of the 18th one. Del Col appreciated the work performed by the Chinese troop at all levels and in all its functions. "Your work contributes and adds to UNIFIL's goal to support strong and capable Lebanese state institutions, which are at the root of sustainable peace." "Your work helps UNIFIL in achieving its mandate, within the framework of Security Council Resolution 1701, of improving safety and security, an essential prerequisite for peace," he said. For his part, Gao vowed to follow the UN charter, coordinate with peacekeeping forces and fulfill the mission of preserving longstanding peace in the region. "We will be fully devoted to various tasks, fearless of difficulties and sacrifices, to make contributions to the lasting peace of south Lebanon," he said. About 6,000 Chinese peacekeepers have completed their service in southern Lebanon since 2006, which is a critical force to implement the mission's mandate. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 19:37:14|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close HANOI, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Police of Vietnam's northern Thanh Hoa province have cracked down an online gambling ring with transactions totaling nearly 4,000 billion Vietnamese dongs (170 million U.S. dollars), arresting nine local people, Vietnam News Agency reported on Tuesday. After detaining nine people for organizing gambling and gambling online, the police were hunting the ringleader, a 30-year-old man named Tran Quang Truong from the province. They have blocked over 6 billion Vietnamese dongs (256,503 U.S. dollars) in bank accounts used for gambling. Currently, all forms of gambling, including those on sports, except in government-licensed casinos, are illegal in Vietnam. According to the country's Penal Code, gamblers who place a bet of 2 million Vietnamese dongs (85 U.S. dollars) or more, and bookmakers whose ring involves at least 10 people will be indicted for criminal offenses. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 20:12:40|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close ZAGREB, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Pre-season tourism in Croatia this year has seen a five-percent growth compared to the last season, Croatian news agency HINA reported on Tuesday. The latest numbers suggest that there is still a very high touristic demand for Croatia, Kristjan Stanicic, director of the Croatian Tourist Board, told HINA. Tourism Minister Gari Cappelli told reporters on Monday that he predicts another successful tourist season in Croatia. "At the moment, Croatian tourism is good. We have many reservations for autumn as well, and we will finish the year with three percent growth compared to 2018," Cappelli said after meeting Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary-general of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in Zagreb. Last year was a very successful tourist year for Croatia, with the record-breaking 19.4 million visitors. It was 6.5 percent more than 2017. Overnight stays, a key measure in tourism, were also up by four percent (106 million). This year is the Year of Culture and Tourism between China and Croatia. Many joint activities have been undertaken to promote the two countries. The number of Chinese tourists in Croatia has significantly increased in the last few years. According to Croatia's Ministry of Tourism, in 2018, 234,100 tourists from China visited Croatia and generated 344,000 bed-nights, which is an increase of 46 percent compared to 2017. Similar positive trends are expected to continue in 2019. Last year, for the first time ever, Croatian tourism revenue was over 10 billion euros (11.2 billion U.S. dollars). The tourism sector in Croatia accounts for around 17 percent of the country's GDP, among top European countries by the share of tourism in GDP. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 20:12:47|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. government's decision to blacklist Huawei is ill-intentioned. But it could also be a turning point for the world's second-largest economy to strengthen independent innovation and reduce its dependence on imported technology. Huawei, along with other Chinese technology companies, has become an easy target for the United States to contain China, a strategic rival in the eye of the current U.S. administration. It is a shame to see the United States, once the trumpeter of the open economy, took a unilateral and protectionist approach and used its state power against Huawei, a Chinese multinational company. The U.S. hostility is built upon the prominence of the Chinese technology heavyweight. Huawei has excelled in the development of 5G technology. It seems that the United States is far away from getting accustomed to a "new normal" that state-of-the-art technology does not originate from America, but China. Even U.S. telecom carriers are with Huawei, as they benefit from safe, reliable and low-priced Huawei products and services. The U.S. ban on Huawei underlines a new U.S. mentality full of anxiety, jealousy and lack of confidence. In fact, the United States may be too anxious about China's technology prowess. China has made stunning progress in technology development, but realistically, it still has a long way to go before it becomes a major technology power. The U.S. restriction is a wake-up call for China to cast away illusion, cut off dependence on the U.S., and become self-reliant on the supply of core technology. Good to hear the news that Huawei has been developing its own operating system. In fact, China has many leverages to use in order to master its own fate: a complete industrial chain, a vast consumer market, and an abundant young talent pool... With these resources, China must seriously promote indigenous innovation by ditching any blind faith to authority and the so-called foreign model, guarding against complacency, and immerse itself in basic research while turning knowledge into productivity. It is unrealistic for the United States to stop China's technological rise simply through bans and blacklists. It is difficult to imagine that Washington would be able to stop the development of the world's most dynamic economy. It is time for the United States to focus on its own business and compete with China in a decent way. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 20:38:18|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close Li Zhanshu (R), chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), meets with Gulmira Issimbayeva, vice speaker of the Majilis, the lower house of the Kazakh parliament, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, May 28, 2019. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing) BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) -- China's top legislator Li Zhanshu on Tuesday met with Gulmira Issimbayeva, vice speaker of the Majilis, the lower house of the Kazakh parliament in Beijing. Li, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), said that China and Kazakhstan were friendly neighbors and saw each other as important partners and trustworthy friends. He said that the relations between the two countries had achieved a leap-forward in development and demonstrated strong development momentum in recent years under the guidance of the two heads of state. Kazakhstan is the first country to respond and participate in the construction of the Belt and Road, Li said, adding that the pragmatic cooperation between the two countries had yielded fruitful results and the two countries had established a model of complementary advantages and mutual benefit. The NPC is willing to work with the Kazakh parliament to implement the consensus reached by the two leaders and carry out exchanges and cooperation on legislation and supervision to jointly provide a strong legal guarantee for deepening pragmatic cooperation, furthering people-to-people ties and enhancing bilateral relations. Issimbayeva said the Kazakh parliament was willing to have more exchanges with the NPC to make contributions to consolidate and expand friendship between the two countries. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 20:43:29|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close MOGADISHU, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A senior African Union envoy in Somalia held talks on Tuesday with the civil society actors to mull ways of collaboration as part of efforts to stabilize the Horn of African nation. Francisco Madeira, special representative of the Chairperson of the AU Commission for Somalia, told the civil society leaders to work with AMISOM's civilian component which runs programs on stabilization and early recovery across Somalia by implementing Quick Impact Projects (QiPs). QIPs are small scale, low cost programs that are planned and implemented within a short period of time and have a rapid positive impact on targeted communities. The AMISOM civilian component also carries out programs that include the protection of women, children, and vulnerable groups as well as the promotion of human rights and gender issues. According to a statement issued after the meeting, Madeira told the civil society actors that AMISOM was not in Somalia to substitute the government; but to restore peace, stability and empower Somalis to take over security responsibility from the mission. The meeting with the civil society under its platform, Somali Non-State Actors (SONSA) brought together civil society organizations to articulate issues on politics, social, economic, security, governance, and public participation. Osman Moallim, leader of the civil society delegation, lauded AMISOM for the strategic support to the government and the federal member states to advance peace and security. Moallim also asked AMISOM to tap into the local knowledge and expertise of civil society organizations under SONSA to reach local communities. "It is important for us to collaborate with AMISOM through sharing information to enable AMISOM to achieve its mandate and coordinate efforts to maintain peace and stability," he added. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 20:43:32|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close VIENNA, May 28 (Xinhua) -- The Austrian federal government has officially been dismissed by President Alexander Van der Bellen on Tuesday following a vote of no-confidence a day earlier, replaced by an interim government with a new leader. The dismissal came when both former coalition partners, the scandal-hit right-wing Freedom Party, and the centre-left opposition Social Democrats jointly voted to remove a caretaker government led by Chancellor Sebastian Kurz of the center-right People's Party. Finance Minister Hartwig Loeger of the People's Party has been sworn in as interim chancellor until a new caretaker government can be appointed, that Van der Bellen hopes to achieve within a week. In addition the dismissed ministers were reappointed into their roles to ensure ministries are running effectively until the new caretaker cabinet takes over. This new cabinet will govern until snap elections are held, currently scheduled for Autumn. The political turbulence initially began when a secret video emerged of now-former Freedom Party leader and Vice-Chancellor Heinz-Christian Strache offering government contracts in exchange for political favor. He resigned from both posts almost immediately after, though Kurz evidently did not find this to be enough, and called for the dismissal of Strache's close ally, Interior Minister Herbert Kickl. Kickl was subsequently dismissed, though the remaining Freedom Party ministers resigned in retaliation, leading to a collapse in the coalition, and the implementation by Kurz of a caretaker cabinet, that has now been ousted by the no-confidence motion. Loeger had initially been given the role of vice-chancellor under Kurz in that first caretaker cabinet. In response to the ongoing issues, Van der Bellen said "the tedious work is necessary in the long-term." "We want the best for Austria, that's what I'm expecting. But one has to keep an eye on that and not dwell on that which divides us," he said. He noted that both he and Kurz agreed that Loeger would take on the interim duties as chancellor, rather than Kurz himself. He also appealed to all parties to the lower house parliament to join in discussions on how the government will now proceed forward. Despite his ousting, Kurz and his People's Party are presently enjoying very favorable poll figures, that could even see them strengthen their position in the Autumn election. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 20:53:42|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close COLOMBO, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Tuesday said a nationwide narcotics prevention week would be implemented from June 22 to July 1 in order to eradicate the use of drugs from the island country. In a statement, the president's media division said the nationwide program would strengthen the government's ongoing anti-narcotics drive and would help the tri forces and police to eradicate drugs. The Sri Lankan government last month took a national pledge to eradicate the drug menace in the country with President Sirisena, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Speaker of Parliament Karu Jayasuriya and other officials taking oaths to work towards a drug free country. The president said the illegal drug trade, which had spread like a major menace throughout the island, could not be controlled only through seizing illicit drugs, conducting raids or taking legal action, but the time had also come to eliminate this threat through implementing a broad attitude change. Sri Lanka has in recent months launched a severe crackdown on the illegal drug trade with several drug lords and smugglers taken into custody. On April 1 this year, under the directives of Sirisena, authorities destroyed 769 kg of cocaine, which the police had seized in island wide raids carried out during the past few years. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 20:58:46|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close BAGHDAD, May 28 (Xinhua) -- An Iraqi court on Tuesday sentenced two French nationals to death over charges of joining Islamic State (IS) group, bringing the total number of French IS members sentenced to death to six within the past few days, a judicial source said. The two Frenchmen, identified as Karam el-Harchaoui and Brahim Nejara, were sentenced to death after they were found guilty of joining the Daesh (IS group), the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity. The convicts have 30 days to appeal against the verdicts, the source said. The two were handed over to Iraqi authorities by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in January among a group of 12 French citizens. Earlier, the Iraqi court sentenced on Sunday and Monday four other French IS members to death over similar charges. Thousands of IS fighters and supporters of various nationalities had joined the extremist group when it took control of large swathes in Iraq and neighboring Syria, but after the defeat of the extremist group in both countries, hundreds of IS loyalists were killed or captured. Hundreds of IS militants were handed over by the SDF to Iraqi authorities over the past few months after the latest defeat of IS militants in al-Baghouz area, which was the last IS-held area in the eastern Euphrates River region in Syria's eastern Deir al-Zour province. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 21:13:55|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close HARARE, May 28 (Xinhua) -- UN representative to Zimbabwe Bishow Parajuli, donors and other partners on Tuesday left Harare for Mutare to assess responses to the effects of Tropical Cyclone Idai and recovery needs in Manicaland province. Parajuli said in a Twitter message that the team, which also includes officials from the UN family in Zimbabwe, will meet UN partners, non-governmental organizations and communities to assess the situation. State institution the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC) is currently offering psycho-social support to survivors of Cyclone Idai Chimanimani District, Manicaland. Experts, including those from the UN, have called for survivors to be given psycho-social support in view of the trauma they went through as the cyclone ravaged their areas and left more than 300 people dead, affected an estimated 270,000 people and caused massive destruction to infrastructure in mid-March as Cyclone Idai ravaged the country March 15-16. Zimbabwe said in April that it required at least 612 million U.S. dollars for food, shelter and reconstruction of other critical infrastructure following the devastation caused by the cyclone. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 21:29:09|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close ANKARA, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said the delivery of Russian S-400 systems to Turkey "might be delayed until after June," local media reported on Tuesday. "They may not catch June, but will arrive in following months. The process has started," Akar said late Monday in an interview with private broadcaster HaberTurk. "There are some details about the agreements we have made regarding the procurement of the S-400, within the framework of the contracts. Related institutions and organizations continue to negotiate about them," the minister said when asked about the arrival time of the air defense systems. Turkish defense ministry is working on the possible locations where the S-400 batteries will be deployed, he said. In April, Akar said Turkey was expected to receive Russian S-400 air defense batteries by June. The missile batteries are most likely to be used for the defense of capital Ankara and Istanbul. The United States threatens to suspend the delivery of the F-35 fighter jets and slap sanctions if Turkey insists on the purchase of the S-400s. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 21:29:11|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese law enforcement agencies Tuesday launched an upgraded version of its national gang crime informant platform. The public can provide leads on gang crimes via various online channels, including the official website of the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the Communist Party of China Central Committee as well as its official WeChat and Weibo accounts, said Chen Yixin, a senior official with the commission and head of the national office against organized crime, at a press conference. According to Chen, the upgraded platform utilizes big data, model analysis and cloud computing, among other digital methods, allowing the platform to compare the information of suspects, cases and key areas of the crackdown. As the crackdown goes wider and deeper, some places lack clues on whitewashed and undiscovered gang crime, while others are short of in-depth investigations for the large amount of leads. The establishment of the upgraded platform aims to meet the new needs of China's crackdown on gangs and organized crimes, according to Chen. The platform increases mass participation by offering easy accesses on smartphones and computers, as well as detailed instructions and simplified reporting procedures for the public to provide leads, Chen said. Citizens only need to provide basic information on the gang crime they want to report via the platform, which takes about three minutes, said Wang Hongxiang, a senior official with the commission and deputy head of the national office, at the press conference. Measures will be taken to prevent relevant information from being leaked, he added. The platform also enhances accuracy of crackdown by generating submitted clues and automatically processing data, which allows authorities in charge of the gang crime crackdown to better manage and deal with relevant cases and clues, Chen said. The informants will receive a unique code for each lead they report, with which they can check progress or results online, Wang said, adding that authorities should contact informants who leave their names or contacts within 30 days of their leads being received. The platform can not only dynamically monitor the process of cases and the movement of vicious gangs but also summarize rules with big data to strengthen the continuity of the crackdown, Chen said. The original report platform was set up in February 2018 amidst China's increased efforts to crack down on gang crime. As of March 31, the platform had received more than 190,000 leads on gang crime, from letters and phone calls. A view shows a new S-400 "Triumph" surface-to-air missile system after its deployment at a military base outside the town of Gvardeysk near Kaliningrad, Russia March 11, 2019. (Reuters photo) ANKARA, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said the delivery of Russian S-400 systems to Turkey "might be delayed until after June," local media reported on Tuesday. "They may not catch June, but will arrive in following months. The process has started," Akar said late Monday in an interview with private broadcaster HaberTurk. "There are some details about the agreements we have made regarding the procurement of the S-400, within the framework of the contracts. Related institutions and organizations continue to negotiate about them," the minister said when asked about the arrival time of the air defense systems. Turkish defense ministry is working on the possible locations where the S-400 batteries will be deployed, he said. In April, Akar said Turkey was expected to receive Russian S-400 air defense batteries by June. The missile batteries are most likely to be used for the defense of capital Ankara and Istanbul. The United States threatens to suspend the delivery of the F-35 fighter jets and slap sanctions if Turkey insists on the purchase of the S-400s. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 21:44:23|Editor: Shi Yinglun Video Player Close GABORONE, May 28 (Xinhua) -- The Botswana government said on Tuesday it has imposed a ban on the importation of live pigs and its fresh products following an outbreak of the African Swine Fever reported in South Africa. The Department of Veterinary Services of Agricultural Development and Food Security Ministry has advised farmers and the general public that importation of live pigs has been banned following an outbreak of the African Swine Fever that has been reported in South Africa. According to a statement released by the department on Tuesday, due to the outbreak of the highly contagious disease that affects both domestic and wild pigs, there would be no importation of live pigs and its fresh products. "The ban of live pigs and fresh products from South Africa has been introduced and farmers are advised to contain their pigs in pigsties and report any ill or dead pigs both domestic and free range," said the statement. The African Swine Fever is a highly contagious disease of domesticated and wild pigs, which was responsible for serious economic and production losses in many countries. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 22:35:00|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close AMMAN, May 28 (Xinhua) -- The Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union (APU) on Tuesday welcomed Saudi Arabia's call to the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Arab leaders for two emergency summits in Mecca on May 30. President of the APU and Jordan's Lower House Speaker Atef Tarawneh said in a statement that the summits come in the right time due to the critical circumstances the region is going through and their consequences on regional peace and stability, in addition to the recent escalation between Tehran and Washington. Tarawneh called on the APU to seize the opportunity of holding the two summits to achieve Arab solidarity and unify stance and efforts at various levels to confront the challenges that threaten the security and stability of the Arab and Islamic nations. He called on Iran to improve its relations with the Arab countries by translating its statements into practical steps and affirm its keenness to avoid violence or threats against the territorial integrity or political independence of any other country. Saudi Foreign Ministry highlighted in a statement recently that the two summits would be held on May 30 to negotiate and coordinate reinforcement of regional security and stability. The summits would discuss the regional developments, including the recent attacks on commercial ships in the waters near the United Arab Emirates and the attacks on the two oil pump stations, along with the stability of the global oil supply. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 22:50:16|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close JUBA, May 28 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan's military on Tuesday denied allegations by a rebel group that government forces have launched fresh offensive in a bid to gain more territory in the southern parts of the east African country. Rebels of the National Salvation Front (NAS), an opposition group led by renegade army general Thomas Cirilo, alleged on Monday that the South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF) and a local militia attacked two of their bases in Lainya and Wonduruba areas respectively. But SSPDF Spokesman Lul Roai Koang denied the accusations, saying that the army has never fought any armed group since the signing of a peace deal last year. "I'm not aware of any fighting in the country. We also do not have militia in Lainya area. The only force we have there are the regular army of the SSPDF," Koang said by phone from Juba. NAS is one of several armed groups that refused to ink the September 2018 peace deal despite repeated efforts by the east African regional bloc, Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), to get them on board. South Sudan descended into civil war in late 2013, and the conflict has created one of the fastest growing refugee crises in the world. The UN estimates that about 4 million South Sudanese have been displaced internally and externally. A peace deal signed in August 2015 collapsed following renewed violence in the capital, Juba in July 2016. Under the new peace deal, opposition leader Riek Machar, along with four others, will once again be reinstated as Kiir's deputy. Signatories to the fragile peace agreement on May 3 agreed to extend the formation of the transitional government by six months following delays in the implementation of the pact over unresolved issues. Study of northern Alaska could rewrite Arctic history HANOVER, N.H. - May 28, 2019 - Parts of Alaska's mountainous Brooks Range were likely transported from Greenland and a stretch of the Canadian Arctic much farther to the east, according to a series of Dartmouth-led studies detailing over 300 million years of Arctic geologic history. The finding updates the geological evolution of the Arctic Ocean and could help revise predictions about the Arctic's oil, gas and mineral wealth. By explaining the formation of the Arctic Ocean in the Western Hemisphere - known as the Amerasian Basin - the research provides more clues into the geological history of the rapidly changing region. "This is arguably the most important place for the United States from the perspective of Arctic economic development," said Justin Strauss, an assistant professor of earth science at Dartmouth. "The geology of this region, which is directly connected to its ancient history, will help revise our knowledge about natural resources in the Arctic." The existing model for the formation of the Arctic Ocean along the U.S. and Canada border region details how seismic activity, known as faulting, caused Alaska to rotate away from a western band of islands in the Canadian Arctic starting approximately 125 million years ago. Under this original "rotation" scenario, parts of the Brooks Range should match perfectly with Canada's Banks Island and Victoria Island about 450 hundred miles away. But after close to ten years studying exposed rocks in the region, the Dartmouth studies show that the area actually contains rocks with origins as far away as 1,200 miles to the east. The results were recently published in a Special Papers series by the Geological Society of America. "The geology of the northeastern Brooks Range does not match anything that we've studied in the neighboring region of North America," said Strauss, the research lead of the study. "This complicates previous models for how you open this major ocean basin." Further confirming the findings, researchers in the study area saw signs of mountain-building processes that are not known to have taken place near the present position of the Brooks Range. This collision of ancient land masses dating from 400-450 million years is more closely associated with tectonic activity in the eastern Arctic. The team believes that the area was formed by a combination of activities including the action of a major strike-slip fault system - similar to the San Andreas Fault of California - that transported part of what is now the Brooks Range from Greenland to the western Canadian Arctic Islands. A smaller scale rotation of the land mass farther westward that has been previously recorded may complete the explanation of how northern Alaska was transported to its current location. "Relationships on the northwestern margin of North America have long been poorly understood and poorly documented," said Bill McClelland, a professor of earth and environmental studies at the University of Iowa and co-investigator of the study. "The results of these studies have significantly enhanced our understanding of the tectonic processes that formed the Arctic margin of North America and will be instrumental in pushing forward on new research frontiers." "Because of its remoteness, the North Slope of Alaska and Yukon has seen limited studies to date," said co-investigator Maurice Colpron, a scientist with the Yukon Geological Survey. "Understanding the area with complete certainty will still take many years of hard work, but these research findings greatly advance our knowledge of the region." As the Arctic continues to open for the development of oil, gas and mineral resources, this new understanding of the region's history could change predictions of how much resource wealth lies in the area. The United States Geological Survey currently estimates that about 6 percent of the world's oil and 25 percent of the world's natural gas are in the Arctic. The region studied by the team lies within the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, an area that some would like to open for oil drilling. In addition to changing the outlook over how much resource wealth exists in the Arctic and where it sits, the research could impact how countries lay claim to those resources. The United States, Russia, Canada and other Arctic countries are all jostling for extended footholds in the region. "If countries are going to make legal claims based on geology or geophysics, they should consider these much older boundaries that we are highlighting. Governments will to need to confront the complexities of geology meeting politics," said Strauss. While magnetic surveys allow researchers to understand how the Arctic's Eurasian Basin over Europe and western parts of Asia was formed, that same data are not as easy to interpret for the Amerasian Basin above North America. The research, funded by the National Science Foundation, is based on the existence of a major fault system in the northern part of North America that has yet to be completely mapped. "This is the area of the Arctic Ocean that still baffles researchers. It's one of the last major ocean basins on the planet that we just do not understand," said Strauss. In future studies, the research team will focus on Canada's Yukon and Ellesmere Island to look for major fault systems. The research will retrace hundreds of millions of years of geological evolution to further explore where this part of Alaska came from and why it landed where it did. ### Researchers from University of Iowa, West Virginia University, Yukon Geological Survey, Johns Hopkins University and University of Alaska-Fairbanks all contributed to this study. This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 23:00:26|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close BERLIN, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Greenpeace protesters interrupted the annual general meeting (AGM) of Rheinmetall, a European defence contractor, in Berlin on Tuesday. About 30 female and male activists had entered the hall of the shareholders' meeting and had to be removed by police officers, according to German police. The critics of the German arms company are accusing Rheinmetall of supplying weapons to the Arabian Peninsula via an Italian subsidiary. German companies are currently not allowed to export arms made in Germany to Saudi Arabia but critics have complained that the export ban is being circumvented through foreign subsidiaries. In January, the German ministry rejected reviewing the arms export regulations and assured that "the export of military equipment and technology is strictly controlled and subject to authorization". Greenpeace activists unrolled a large banner that read "Rheinmetall bombs kill in Yemen" at the event's conference hotel on Tuesday. Rheinmetal criticized in a statement that the general meeting was disturbed, asking for "fairness" in the dispute but stressed that the company would object to "false allegations". Last year, the German arms company saw its defense business grow by 6.1 percent to 3.22 billion euros (3.60 billion U.S. dollars). Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger attributed the strong arms business to a robust demand for new military equipment and is targeting a plus of nine percent for this year. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 23:30:42|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close TOKYO, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Japan was filled with sadness and astonishment as a stabbing rampage close to the capital city of Tokyo on Tuesday killed an elementary school girl and a man in his 30s, which also saw the assailant die of a self-inflicted injury. The man who went on a fatal stabbing rampage in Kawasaki shouted "I'm gonna kill you" as he waved knives in both hands, and pools of blood were left at the spot where dozens of Caritas elementary school students were attacked, according to eyewitnesses' description in a press conference. The deaths of an 11-year-old girl and a 39-year-old man who was the father of one of the students were confirmed by hospitals. The suspect, who stabbed himself in the neck, died later at a hospital. "I heard the children's screams at the back of the queue," said Satoru Shitori, vice principal of the elementary school in the press conference. "I saw the criminal run toward the bus stop, waving what looked like long knives in both hands," Shitori said, describing the horror at the scene. Toshichika Ishii, 57, who was at a park near the site, said that he saw children falling to the ground. He said, "I heard children scream 'I'm scared' and then turned to see a man with knives shouting, 'I'm gonna kill you.'" A bus driver who witnessed the horrible event told the police that "I tried to stop him, but he started stabbing children and others." "He then moved dozens of meters away and stabbed his own neck," the driver said, according to the police. A woman in her 40s who lives nearby said that she saw a rescue worker conducting a cardiac massage on a girl and "blood flowed from a man in a suit crouching on the ground and formed a pool." Many of the victims were slashed on their necks, and may also suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder in the future, according to the hospitals treating them. In the wake of Tuesday's attack, Masahiko Shibayama, Japan's education minister, called for redoubling of efforts to secure safety at schools. "The government as a whole must take measures including checking the safety of routes to schools and share information on suspicious individuals," he said. Schools in Japan have already beefed up security measures ever since a knife-wielding man killed eight students and wounded 15 others in an elementary school in Ikeda, Osaka Prefecture in 2001. According to local media analysis, safety is still lacking although many schools lock their gates once classes start, security cameras have been introduced, and volunteers and members of parent teacher associations help on the routes leading to schools. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 23:41:04|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close Photo published on the website of Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia in Primorye territory on May 28, 2019 shows the scene of a bus crash near the city of Ussuriysk, Russia. Two Chinese citizens were killed and 13 others injured in a bus crash in Russia's far eastern Primorye territory, Chinese Foreign Ministry and a consulate official in Vladivostok confirmed on Tuesday. (Xinhua) MOSCOW, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Two Chinese citizens were killed and 13 others injured in a bus crash in Russia's far eastern Primorye territory, Chinese Foreign Ministry and a consulate official in Vladivostok confirmed on Tuesday. A tourist bus, from Dongning City of northern China's Heilongjiang Province to Russia's port city of Vladivostok, overturned near the city of Ussuriysk at 16:30 local time (0630 GMT) on Tuesday, the Center for Consular Assistance and Protection of the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on its social media account. A total of 43 Chinese tourists were on the bus and 10 of the 13 injured have been discharged from hospital, said Chinese Consul-General in Vladivostok Yan Wenbin. Chinese Consulate General in Vladivostok has dispatched a team to the accident scene and is coordinating with relevant parties. According to preliminary data, the accident occurred as a result of "sharp deterioration in the health status of the driver," a statement on the website of Primorye Governor Oleg Kozhemyako said. Kozhemyako extended condolences to the families of the Chinese victims in the accident, and to the Chinese consul-general in Vladivostok, the statement said. An investigation into the cause of the accident is still underway. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 23:46:06|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Vanuatuan Prime Minister Charlot Salwai in Beijing, capital of China, May 28, 2019. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday met with Vanuatuan Prime Minister Charlot Salwai, calling on the two countries to strengthen all-round dialogue, cooperation and exchanges to advance their comprehensive strategic partnership. Xi said bilateral ties are in the best time in history, and have been a model of relations between China and Pacific island countries. "Countries, no matter big or small, strong or weak, rich or poor, are equal members of the international community," Xi stressed, expressing China's opposition to "great-power chauvinism". China speaks highly of Vanuatu's adherence to the one-China policy and supports Vanuatu to independently choose a development path that suits its own national conditions, Xi said. He called on the two sides to maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, expand dialogue between the two countries' political parties and between their legislative institutions, and exchange more experiences in governance, so as to deepen political mutual trust. "We should take the signing of a cooperation plan on jointly building the Belt and Road as an opportunity to strengthen alignment of development strategies, tap the potential of cooperation and expand pragmatic cooperation in various fields," Xi said. China is willing to deepen agricultural technology cooperation with Vanuatu, support the development of its competitive industries, and continue to encourage Chinese enterprises to invest in Vanuatu, he said. China maintains the approach of upholding justice and pursuing shared interests and the principles of sincerity, real results, affinity and good faith to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with Pacific island countries, he said. Xi stressed China pursues no private interest or so-called "sphere of influence" in Pacific island countries, and will always be their reliable good friend and partner. Salwai said Vanuatu admires China for its insistence on equal treatment of countries no matter they are big or small, rich or poor, strong or weak, and appreciates China's sincere help to his country according to its actual needs. He vowed to adhere to the one-China policy, and support Chinese government's efforts in achieving peaceful reunification of the country. Vanuatu will strengthen cooperation with China on such areas as jointly building the Belt and Road, implementing the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and coping with climate change, he said. Salwai is paying an official visit to China from May 26 to 31. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-28 23:46:08|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (R) meets with Nigerien President Mahamadou Issoufou in Beijing, capital of China, May 28, 2019. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei) BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met with Nigerien President Mahamadou Issoufou on Tuesday, calling on the two countries to cooperate for more achievements. Commending the progress of cooperation between the two countries, Li said Niger is China's important cooperation partner in Africa. He said China stands ready to deepen political mutual trust and enhance the synergy of development strategies with Niger in line with the principles of mutual trust and equal treatment, so as to build China-Niger friendly cooperation as a model of China-Africa relations. China and Niger are both developing countries and they should learn from each other and choose a development path that suits their own national conditions, Li said. China is willing to enhance infrastructure construction, energy, agriculture, health cooperation with Niger in accordance with market rules and business principles to achieve mutual benefits and win-win results, said Li. He added that China will support its capable enterprises to take part in Niger's domestic construction and hopes that the Nigerien side will strengthen security protection for them. China is willing to continue providing support and aid to Niger within its own capacity to help the African country's economic and social development and livelihood improvement. Li also expressed China's support for the agreement on Africa free trade area and Africa's integration process. Issoufou expressed congratulations on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and expressed admiration for the huge achievements of China's reform and opening-up. He said China has set off on a new journey and is bound to achieve its goals. Niger speaks highly of bilateral relations, firmly upholds the one-China principle, and is willing to actively taking part in the joint construction of the Belt and Road, he said. Niger is willing to enhance relations and cooperation with China across the board, and enhance coordination and cooperation in international affairs to enhance bilateral relations and Africa-China relations, he said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-29 00:21:48|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close KIGALI, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A High Court in Rwandan capital Kigali on Tuesday rejected the appeal of American evangelist Gregg Schoof, who had sued Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) and Rwanda Media Commission over revocation of broadcasting license for his radio station. The high court said Schoof's Amazing Grace Christian Radio should have complied with RURA's directives before Schoof rushed to court to appeal. In the sermon of Amazing Grace Christian Radio aired live in January 2018, pastor Nicolas Niyibikora said women are "source of evil", which immediately went viral on social media, igniting anger among women rights activists. RURA in April 2018 announced the revocation of broadcasting license of Amazing Grace Christian Radio after it failed to comply with the sanctions which included making an apology to the public by correcting the aired program and paying a fine of 2 million Rwandan francs (about 2,331 U.S. dollars). Gregg sued RURA and Rwanda Media Commission afterwards, arguing that the shutdown was done contrary to the legal provisions of Rwanda's laws, but the court dismissed the case in October 2018. A man evacuates a young bombing casualty after a reported air strike in the jihadist-held Syrian town of Maaret Al-Noman in the southern Idlib province, Syria, May 26, 2019. (AFP Photo) UNITED NATIONS, May 28 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy said Tuesday that China attaches great importance to the humanitarian situation in Syria and urges the international community to find a solution to the Syrian issue. "We attach great importance to the humanitarian situation in Syria and support the untiring efforts of the United Nations and relevant actors to improve the humanitarian situation in Syria," Ma Zhaoxu, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, told a Security Council meeting on the situation in Syria. Noting that the Idlib problem is attributed to the terrorist forces who have controlled the region, the Chinese ambassador said, "We should harmonize the criteria in our fight against all terrorist organizations listed by the Council." "The local terrorist groups not only violate the rights of civilians and humanitarian workers, but also frequently attack Russian military bases and the Syrian government-controlled areas, threatening the security and stability of Syria and the region," he said. "Without eliminating the threat of terrorist organizations in Idlib, the Syrian people will not have peace, nor will the humanitarian problems faced by the people in Idlib be fully resolved," the Chinese envoy noted. "China supports Russia and Turkey in continuing to implement the memorandum and the efforts to seek comprehensive and long-term solutions through dialogue and consultations," Ma said. "China also supports the UN and other relevant actors in their humanitarian relief operations for the displaced civilians and their efforts to improve the humanitarian situation in the northwest." Russia and Turkey signed a memorandum of understanding in September 2018, reiterating their determination to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations with a view to maintaining stability in northwest Syria. "We have seen that since the beginning of this year, there has been a massive influx into the Al Hol camp of civilians from the northeastern part fleeing conflict," said the Chinese envoy, noting that the population of the camp has soared to 73,000, and "the composition is very complicated." Idlib, the last major rebel stronghold in Syria, is controlled by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the umbrella group of the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front. Since mid-April, there has been an intensification of hostilities in Idlib, which is one of the four "de-escalation" areas agreed by the Astana guarantors -- Russia, Iran and Turkey -- in 2017. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-29 07:22:30|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close Photo taken on May 28, 2019 shows a paper box that can be recycled for packaging displayed during the 2019 Global Smart Logistics Summit in Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province. The 2019 Global Smart Logistics Summit kicked off on Tuesday in Hangzhou. (Xinhua/Huang Zongzhi) Plimbarile alesilor pe banii statului. Prin ce destinatii exotice merg parlamentarii Mai multi deputati au mers in deplasari oficiale, pe banii statului, in destinatii aflate la mii de kilometri de Romania, pentru a participa la diferite reuniuni, mai mult sau mai putin importante, ca Panama sau Republica Kargaza. [citeste mai departe] Frigul va tine pana la Revelion: Cum va fi vremea astazi Meteorologii anunta pentru astazi cer variabil pe intreg teritoriul tarii si vreme destul de rece. Pe timp de zi, mercurul in termometre va cobori pana la -7 grade Celsius, iar noaptea pana la - 16 grade Celsius. Timpul rece va tine pana la Revelion, iar ulterior treptat se incalzeste. [citeste mai departe] 21 trucks were sent by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, - Ukraine's State Border Guard Medical supplies unloaded at a hospital in Popasna, Luhansk region kyivpost A convoy of 21 trucks with chemical reagents aboard crossed the checkpoint in Novotroitske (Donetsk region), which is held by Ukrainian troops. The cargo headed for the occupied area of Donetsk region, Ukraine's State Border Guard reported as quoted by Kyivpost. Water treatment chemical reagents whose total weight is 420 tonnes have been sent for residents of Donbas, the press service of the State Border Service of Ukraine said on May 28 morning', reads the article. The trucks were sent on the behalf of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. Earlier this month, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has sent 95 tons of humanitarian aid to the uncontrolled territory of Donbas, as Ukraines State Border Guard Service reported. According to the report, five trucks from ICRC were sent through Novotroitske entry-exit checkpoint to the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine. Their baggage was 95 tons of products and hygiene kits. The humanitarian aid is sent for the residents of Donetsk occupied territories. The diplomatic note, sent to Russia, contains information about the ways Ukraine can take back its ships and when Ukrainian consuls can return Ukrainian sailors. Open source Deputy Foreign Minister Olena Zerkal stated Ukraines Foreign Ministry prepared a diplomatic note to Russia which was sent to Russian Foreign Ministry on May 27, as she said in an interview for RadioNV. In particular, Zerkal added that the note contains information about the ways Ukraine can take back its ships and when Ukrainian consuls can return Ukrainian sailors. The enhancement of the pressure occurs with all the tools. Speaking of sanctions, we will also raise this question, we will raise a question on non-fulfillment of orders. We have lots of options, and we will use them, she noted. Besides, Zerkal added that on May 28, Ukraines Foreign Ministry would address to the international partners and urge all the foreign ministers to appeal to Russia with a demand to fulfill the decision of the international tribunal. As it was reported, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea will announce the decision on the case of three ships of the Ukrainian Navy and 24 sailors approximately on May 25. In November 2018, the coast guard ships of the Russian Navy attacked the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, which have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov. Ukrainian ships were rejected passage via the Kerch Strait, Russian coast guards opened aimed fire on them. All 24 sailors on board were captured and delivered to Moscow 21 of them were delivered to Lefortovo remand center, the rest came to the hospital of Matrosskaya Tishina prison. Ukraine news on 112.international More Koreans are opting to invest in gold, now seen as a safe bet. With looming economic uncertainties brought on by a drop in global oil prices and the freefalling Russian rouble, investors here are turning to safer assets, including gold, savings and bonds. According to the Korea Gold Exchange, sales of gold bars are rising almost twice as fast as last month. Some 160 kg of gold have already sold in the first 15 days of this month, while sales totaled 137 kg last month. If the pace continues, the monthly sales will surpass the previous record of 250 kg. Court's decision did not take force at the moment when the appeals were being considered The nationalized PrivatBank filed appeals against the decision of District Administrative Court of Kyiv as of April 18, 2019 on the case No. 826/7432/17, as the press office of the bank reported. It was noted that appeals were filed against the decision of the court on the lawsuit of Igor Kolomoysky, former PrivanBank owner, concerning the cancellation of the decision to withdraw insolvent PrivatBank from the market with the state involved. The bank also filed an appeal against the decision on the lawsuit of former shareholder of the bank of Cyprus company Triantal Investments Ltd. on cancellation of the decision made by National Bank of Ukraine's Commission. Considering this, courts decision have not taken effect and do not have any legal consequences, the message reads. Earlier, nationalized PrivatBank filed a lawsuit against its ex-owner Ior Kolomoysky; it will be considered by the Court of Chancery of Denver, the U.S. As it was reported earlier, the court merged five Kolomoyskys lawsuits against Ukraine's National Bank, PrivatBank. The Prosecutor General Office launched an investigation on alleged pressure put by President Poroshenko on judges of PrivatBank case. On April 18, Kyiv-based court ruled that the nationalization of Privatbank in late 2017 was 'conducted with multiple law breaches.' The court, thus, granted the motion by Ihor Kolomoysky, the oligarch who appealed against the nationalization of the bank he had owned. District Administrative Court of Kyiv granted the claim of Ukrainian oligarch Ihor Kolomoysky against the National Bank of Ukraine and Ukraines Government on nationalization of PrivatBank. In my recent contribution to the Kyiv Posts Ukrainian Voices from Abroad: Advice for Zelenskiy series, I urged the new president to support the stability of the newly autocephalous Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) while also ensuring the legal status of the Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine headed by Metropolitan Onuphriusprovided that any and all evidence of the latters complicity with the Kremlin to undermine Ukraines national security and interests be swiftly investigated. As Halya Coynash reported in February 2018 and scholar Dmitry Adamsky sets forth in his chillingly titled Russian Nuclear Orthodoxy to cite but two testimonies among manythere can be no doubt that the Kremlin and the Moscow Patriarchate work hand in glove to advance Vladimir Putins geopolitical agenda in Ukraine and around the globe. Jonathan Luxmoore has reported that Patriarch Kirill of Moscow went so far as to ridicule the idea of independent Ukrainian nationhood as a Uniate (Greek-Catholic) invention in his remarks to Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople when they met at the Phanar last August. Add to this the fact that Metropolitan Onuphrius sits as the senior ranking member of the Permanent Synod of the Moscow Patriarchate, and Zelenskiys administration has ample reason to keep a close eye on the Russian Churchs activities in Ukraine. On the surface, my advice to Zelenskiy may seem to fly in the face of my earlier applause for his election as the dawn of a new day in Ukrainian church-state relations. As I cautioned here and here just before and after the OCU received its tomos of autocephaly from the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Poroshenko came uncomfortably close to adopting the Russian model of Byzantine symphonia and making the OCU an official state church. This is most decidedly not what I am urging Zelensky to do. Yet in a majoritarian Orthodox Christian nation where half of the entire population identifies with the ecclesiastical entity (the OCU) which fully supports Ukraines territorial integrity, its independence from Russia, and its aspirations to integrate with the European Union, it behooves Zelensky greatly to recognize the powerful ally that he has in the OCU. Paradoxically, without the overwhelming support of the OCUs faithful he would not have won the election against the Orthodox incumbent who had inserted himself directly into the creation and autocephaly of their Church. Already there are concerns that Zelenskiy may squander this opportunity, if more from indifference or antipathy than outright hostility. In an open letter published on May 23 at EuroMaidan Press, individuals and organizations representing Ukrainian civil society listed implementing any actions aimed at undermining or discrediting the Orthodox Church of Ukraine [OCU] or supporting the Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine [under Metropolitan Onuphrius] among several red lines that Zelensky must not cross, at the risk of causing political instability in our country and the deterioration of international relations. The fact of the matter is that Zelenskiys presidency will fail if he alienates the Orthodox constituency which comprises the majority of the nations population. To be clear, this is not an appeal to state power to make Ukraine more Orthodox, or to bring more parishes and monasteries coercively into the OCU, or to give the OCU preferential treatment over the other faith communities represented by the All Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations (AUCCRO). Rather this is an appeal to common sense from a purely political point of view: the more the OCU thrives, the more Ukraines democratic aspirations and values thrive, and the more Ukraine frees herself from the dark undercurrents of Muscovite hegemony in her political, economic, social, cultural, and spiritual life. While the separation of church and state stands as a self-evident norm in Western democracies such as Ukraine makes continuous progress in becoming, history showsfor better or for worsethat this separation is neither absolute in any given national context nor identical from one democratic nation to another. In Ukraine, it will not look exactly the same as it does in Canada, where I live. As some of our eras most prominent thinkers grapple with the question of the power of religion in the public sphere, it falls to Ukraine to chart her own course in discovering appropriate ways for church and state to work together for the common good of all citizens, without church or state encroaching on the proper domain of the other. In cultivating a relationship of collaborative autonomy, as it were, the Orthodox Church safeguards her ability both to preach the Gospel and to speak truth to power whenever the state becomes an organ of oppression against its most vulnerable minorities, and the state retains its freedom to enact social policies expected of a modern Western democracy but thought to be contrary to church doctrine and praxis. Read the original text at Kyiv Post. Many experts and citizens believe that the fifth president of Ukraine when trying to stay in his office, conducted the dirtiest election campaign in the entire history of the country Many experts and citizens believe that the fifth president of Ukraine when trying to stay in his office, conducted the dirtiest election campaign in the entire history of the country. Mud-slinging and indiscriminate demagogy, the purchase of Tomos for Ukrainian church and the introduction of martial law, however, did not help him. And then he put into effect the plan B developed by his team, which included obvious sabotage actions aimed at the new president. For 28 days from the date of the second round of elections, Poroshenko made two hundred personnel appointments, distributed to the right and mostly left state awards and titles. Poroshenko things that this should complicate the work of his successor. And moreover, he announced his intention to return to the presidents office in a year or in some five years. Most of the 37% in the first round and 73% in the second, who voted for Zelensky, actually protested against Poroshenkos government. And the new president inherited huge Augean stables, for clearing of which both a powerful team and a considerable time would be needed. However, the resistance of the former politicians is still great, and they are clearly not going to surrender without a fight. When voting for Zelensky, we had no idea how he could defeat this fire-breathing dragon, fighting against its people with tariffs and prices, bans, and blockades. However, the multi-headed dragon is still powerful, and he desperately snaps and resists. His special forces, the National Front, even made a formal attempt to thwart the early parliamentary elections by announcing their withdrawal from the non-existent parliamentary coalition. However, on May 21, President Zelensky issued a decree on holding elections on July 21. The presidents decision to dissolve the Verkhovna Rada will be appealed to the Constitutional Court, Speaker Andriy Parubiy wrote on Facebook, because, in his opinion, its sad and alarming that the guarantor of the Ukrainian Constitution begins his activity in office with a gross violation of the Constitution. A bad sign. And here I want to draw attention to two points: 1) Presidential Decree No. 309 speaks of the termination of the activities of the 8th Verkhovna Rada and the appointment of early elections. The term "dissolution" is not even used there; 2) Over the past 5 years, the post-Maidan authority has systematically violated so many laws and articles of the Constitution, why Parubiy kept silence then? Judging by the development of events, Poroshenko will not so much directly target Zelensky, but rely on revenge. However, agreement on early elections and the resignation of the Cabinet of Ministers suggests that there would be no tough confrontation. Ukrainian MP Tetiana Chornovol scares the newly elected president with a tragic perspective: Why am I against the dissolution of the parliament? Because I have participated in three Maidan revolutions (Ukraine had only two Maidan revolutions in 2004 and 2013, - ed.) and I dont want to go to the Maidan against Zelensky. I want him to serve his term in full. But if he starts by dissolving, he will dig a hole for himself. He needs to appoint hundreds and hundreds of people in the presidential vertical. After the elections, nothing will prevent Ze!Team from forming a coalition with Yanukovychs former allies from Party of Regions. It will not only the most anti-Ukrainian parliament, but also oligarchic one. Coalition for two: Ihor Kolomoysky with Dmytro Firtash. Or for three plus Rinat Akhmetov." The head of the District Administrative Court of Kyiv, Pavlo Vovk, explains that the president has the right to call early elections even after the parties leave the coalition. In addition, the District Administrative Court already has a lawsuit banning 180 officials from leaving Ukraine, including former president Petro Poroshenko, parliamentary speaker Andriy Parubiy, and PM Volodymyr Groysman. And the court accepted it for consideration. Former Justice Minister Olena Lukash is also confident that the sabotage of the war party just has no chance: Something tells me that the District Court is awaiting a lawsuit declaring Parubiys actions (declaring about the absence of coalition) unlawful. And the suit will be extremely promising. In her opinion, there has been no coalition since February 2016, and since 2010, the head of parliament has been denied the right to declare the absence of a coalition. This is a chess check, dear National Front! Lukash comments. The announcement of early elections right during Zelenskys inauguration was an unpleasant surprise for many people. Immediately after the ceremonial meeting, speaker Parubiy, ex-president Poroshenko, PM Groysman, and former PM, National Front leader Arseniy Yatsenyuk, confined to the last supper. Oleg Lyashko believes that unpopular MPs should not argue with the president: "There are no constitutional grounds for the dissolution of the Rada. This is a purely political decision. But we are going to early elections, because society expects it." In fact, MPs have already surrendered to Zelensky, having agreed to early elections and even to adopt a new electoral code, Danyil Bogatyriov, Ukrainian Institute for Policy Analysis and Management expert, states. An ardent supporter of both presidents (Viktor Yushchenko and Petro Poroshenko) and vice-speaker of the Verkhovna Rada, Iryna Gerashchenko, very emotionally commented on the inauguration of Volodymyr Zelensky. "Ive heard about the release of political prisoners and territories. For me, this is very important..." she wrote on Facebook. May 15, the authorized representative of the President of Ukraine for the peaceful settlement of the situation in the Donbas resigned as the representative of Ukraine in the humanitarian subgroup of the Tripartite Contact Group in Minsk. At the same time, Gerashchenko added that she was ready to help the new president with the negotiations in Minsk. This, to put it mildly, is puzzling: Gerashchenko is famous for her unconstructive and even scandalous position at these negotiations in the Belarusian capital. So the new president should refrain from such "help." Gerashchenko continues to criticize Zelensky: I did not hear about the Revolution of Dignity, the aggression of the Russian Federation, the EU, NATO, the Victory. I dont know what victory she had in mind, but the President began his speech mentioning of pleasant election results. And, yes, the North Atlantic Alliance was mentioned in its inaugural speech. Political expert Yulia Piletska comments on the situation with the confrontation of the new president. "If the political establishment (including ex-president Poroshenko) attacks Zelensky in his attempts to implement initiatives that represent a massive popular request (such as dissolving parliament, for example), then all these politicians will go to margins as representatives of the old epoch and, accordingly, will inevitably lose their rating. We see that now Ukrainians have a very tough mass request for decisive optimistic actions by those in power. Whiners and critics will be sent to political oblivion," Piletska predicts. Washington cartel has supported Zelensky in his decisive actions. US Secretary of Energy Rick Perry voiced the "blessing" of President Donald Trump: "The message from America is quite clear: we look forward to working with the new president, I hope, with the new parliament." It is very symptomatic that after the words of US Secretary of Energy Rick Perry that American President Donald Trump is looking forward to working with the new parliament, Ukraines main political players have sharply agreed to the dissolution of the Verkhovna Rada and early elections, Serhiy Slobodchuk, political strategist, explains. It is very difficult to quickly fulfill all election statements and promises (Poroshenko did not fulfill them at all). And Zelenskys credit of trust is not endless, Igor Guzhva, the editor-in-chief of the Strana.ua newspaper, believes. MP Vadym Rabinovich urged to abolish the majority system so that it would not allow buyers of mandates to go to parliament: Majoritarian MPs are killing Ukraine year after year, this is what causes colossal corruption. If we reelect half of the parliament by the party lists again, and a half - by majority electoral system, then any next government would buy majoritarian MPs to gain the missing percentage." It would be strange if Poroshenkos entourage, having lost the election campaign with a crash, would simply give up power and go into oblivion, Oleksandr Golub, politician, suggests. They understand the objective weaknesses of the new president: inexperience, lack of a clear program of action, vagueness, and inconsistency of his ideological position, lack of personnel and an organized political force on which the newly elected president could rely. In my opinion, Zelensky has only one real chance: to stop flirting with the losing opponents, to begin to fulfill his promises, to conduct a public audit of the country, to maximally publicly investigate all corruption frauds and to punish the guilty persons meaningfully, whatever posts they occupy, to really stop military operations in Donbas, to appeal directly to their voters by making them members of their team," Golub concludes. Lawyer Andriy Portnov, who returned to Ukraine, took up the business of Poroshenko and his friends: "Our large legal team started filing complaints about Poroshenkos crimes on the very first day after the inauguration. We systematized the main crimes of his organized criminal group." Given the already high anti-rating of the former president and, accordingly, his entourage, their chances of passing into the future parliament will melt. "All this activity should turn Poroshenkos parliamentary faction into an insignificant political force so that they could not win the next parliamentary elections. And so Poroshenkos supporters could not influence public life and state policy in our country," Portnov stated. Most observers were convinced that Petro Poroshenko and the MPs would resist, political consultant Vasyl Stoyakin noted. The parliament unexpectedly quickly capitulated. Most likely, it was a categorical imperative of the Washington cartel, to create the impression of a peaceful and democratic transition of power. Therefore, resistance to the new president would be sluggish, and this would not lead to the disruption of the elections, Stoyakin concludes. The former authorities also hate Zelenskys initiative to hold a referendum on the format of the negotiation process with Russia, as reported by Andriy Bogdan, the head of the Presidential Administration: "We are considering submitting to a people's referendum so that not only the MPs vote but the people of Ukraine could make this decision. " And it will be impossible to object to the opinion of the people. Read the original text at 112.ua. This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or 112.International and its owners. If Russian democracy ends where Ukraine begins, as a popular saying goes, then Ukrainian democracy ends when the conversation about language begins. The language issue can make anyone hate each other and lead to additional friction in society. Ukraines new Law on Guaranteeing the Functioning of the Ukrainian Language as a State Language emerged out of Draft Law 5670-D, one of four language laws registered in the Ukrainian parliament. All of these bills were drawn up in response to the declaration of the 2012 Kivalov-Kolesnichenko Law (also known as the Law on the Basis of State Policy) as unconstitutional. This law, drawn up under the Viktor Yanukovych regime, was developed to extend the rights of regional languages in Ukraine, but Ukraines opposition criticized it as part of a Russification drive. Immediately after the victory of Euromaidan in 2014, parliamentary deputies tried to revoke the Kivalov-Kolesnichenko Law, on 23 February. But acting president Oleksandr Turchynov decided not to sign off on parliaments decision. The very attempt to revoke the law outraged people of very different political views. Two days after, members of the Lviv intelligentsia came out in defence of the Russian language. Parliaments decision was interpreted as an attack on the rights of Russian-speaking Ukrainians, and became yet another trigger for pro-Russian separatism in the east of the country. In June 2014, newly elected president Petro Poroshenko called parliaments actions a mistake. Having come to power on the idea of a united country, Poroshenko couldnt permit himself to divide Ukrainian society any further. And in his inauguration speech he made a separate address to residents of Donetsk and Luhansk regions in Russian. Five years later, Volodymyr Zelensky repeated this address to Russian speakers during his inauguration - and received several angry shouts from parliament in response. The times, it seems, have changed. Army, faith, language In the 2019 presidential elections, Poroshenko ran for a second term with the slogan Army, faith, language. Bill 5670-D was approved in its first reading on 4 October 2018. Next came the process of amendments (some 3,000 of them), and parliament passed the law in its second reading on 25 April 2019. By that time, the law was already useless in terms of helping Poroshenko at the ballot box - hed lost the first round a few days before. But the language law can still be of use to the former president at this years parliamentary elections. According to party representatives, the Petro Poroshenko Bloc is transforming itself into an ideological right-wing party. Revitalising the language issue could be very useful for them. Indeed, a consolidation of Ukraines Russian-speaking electorate in response to this strategy could draw potential votes from Volodymyr Zelenskys political party towards Opposition Bloc and other political groups that emerged from the Yanukovych-era Party of Regions. This wouldnt be the first time that Petro Poroshenko acted in tandem with pro-Russian politicians to improve his own rating. During the recent presidential election, Ukrainian media which are friendly to Poroshenko actively promoted pro-Russian candidate Yuri Boiko - in order to push the unpatriotic (and beatable) candidate into the second round. After the new language law was passed in parliament and signed into force by speaker Andriy Parubiy, it was not published on parliaments website, despite the promises of Mykola Knyazhytsky, chairperson of the parliamentary committee on culture and spirituality. It was only published in full on 16 May in the parliamentary newspaper. The law comes into force on 16 July. Several of its provisions will be implemented later. Not a word in Russian The introduction to the law states that the full functioning of Ukrainian on the entire territory of the state guarantees the preservation of the identity of the Ukrainian nation and strengthening of the unity of Ukraine, and that the Ukrainian language is a defining factor and main marker of identity of the Ukrainian nation. The Ukrainian parliament also refers to Ukraines Constitution, and Article 10 says that the state language in Ukraine is Ukrainian. But that same article states that the free development, use and defence of Russian and other languages of national minorities is guaranteed in Ukraine. According to the new law, the only state and official language in Ukraine is Ukrainian. It is to be used during the operation of duties of state power and local self-government. The law does not cover private interaction and religious rituals. The first version of the law contained a point about the introduction of language inspectors - public officials who were to monitor the obligatory use of Ukrainian. But this norm has now been removed, while keeping the position of a public official with oversight over defence of Ukrainian. These inspectors were removed following a negative reaction from society (for example, heated debates on social media). As Iryna Podolyak, one of the authors of the law, said: Russian propaganda, which started frightening people with [language] inspectors, has won. Everyone immediately imagined an environmental inspector - who has to be bribed - or, perhaps, a [police] traffic inspector. Moreover, during the laws second reading, parliament removed several other norms, such as those that concerned newspapers in foreign languages. For example, the first version of the law stated that every media resource in a foreign language should have a Ukrainian version. Thus, the Kyiv Post, an English-language publication, would have had to release a Ukrainian edition of its newspaper - and bear the financial costs. By the second reading, this provision had been removed. Now media are not obliged to publish a Ukrainian-language version if they publish in Crimean Tatar or any of the other official languages of the European Union. This compromise does not cover Russian. A similar provision is applied to education, where one or more subjects can be taught in a European Union language, but not in Russian. You can only receive a pre-school or primary education in the language of a national minority (which Russian is). Its worth noting that the law states that Crimean Tatar language is the language of the native people of Crimea, but it doesnt cover other languages that people speak in Ukraine - such as Russian, Romanian or Hungarian. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has already called this new law unacceptable. And the Ukrainian state will probably have to come to an agreement with the Hungarian or Romanian foreign ministries. Any outrage from the Russian state will be ignored. Moreover, the new law regulates the use of language in Ukraines culture industry, and these norms will come into force in two years. For instance, you will only be able to use foreign languages in theatres in case of artistic necessity. The law does not explain who will define this necessity or how. Meanwhile, the number of films shown in cinemas that arent dubbed into Ukrainian cannot exceed 10%. The number of times that foreign films are shown in their original dubbing cannot exceed more than 10% of the cinemas entire repertoire. Everyone but Moscow It will be possible to change some of the laws problems via amendment later. But its impossible to change the message that the Ukrainian authorities have sent. We tried to account for the opinion of all interested parties which adhere to the states policy. The only opinion that we werent going to account for is the opinion of Moscow. Let them study Russian, said Petro Poroshenko in his parliamentary speech dedicated to the new law . On May 27, Minister of State for Housing Kit Malthouse joined the fight for the PM's office British Housing Minister Kit Malthouse Kit Malthouse Ten candidates aspire for the post of the British PM, as The Sun reported. This leadership campaign cannot be about the same old faces, scarred by the wars that have split the Tory Party over the last 3 years. I believe Im the new face, with fresh new ideas, from a new and talented generation, Minister of State for Housing Kit Malthouse said. The Prime Minister of the UK Theresa May resigns on June 7. Earlier, British Prime Minister Theresa May said that she and Labor Party leader Jeremy Corbin needed to put aside their disagreements in order to conclude an agreement on Brexit. The President of Ukraine added that "there is a lot of work" May 23, Ukraines new President Volodymyr Zelensky who has no previous political experience said his first days in office have been "a bit of a shock", as CNA reported. "There's a lot of work," he said. Zelensky confirmed his promise to move out of the presidential offices in Kyiv downtown. "I do not like the atmosphere, the building. So we'll think what to do about it, he noted. Speaking of the newly appointed Head of the Presidents Administration, many observers, including Tomas Fiala, CEO of the Kyiv-based investment company Dragon Capital - expressed doubt that Bogdan would work for the benefit of Ukraine and not Kolomoysky. "I don't know who Fiala is, he's not holding any state office so it's unclear on what grounds he's commenting. They are calling us every day, they want to invest the money as long as the president and the government can guarantee their rights are protected - that's our weak link. This is the main reason why investors will invest or not," he said. "It really has nothing to do with Bogdan," Zelensky reacted. Volodymyr Zelensky assumed the office and became the sixth president of Ukraine. The solemn ceremony of inauguration took place in Kyiv on Monday, May 20. The new head of the state greeted the audience that welcomed him at Mariinsky Park in the downtown Kyiv. Zelensky passed the improvised corridor in the park, shaking hands and taking selfies with his supporters. The head of the state made the oath the traditional way, with his right hand on Peresopnytsia Gospels and the Constitution of Ukraine. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky officially dissolved the Verkhovna Rada and appointed the snap elections for July 21. The Cabinet of Ministers should provide the financing of the elections. Related video: Open source Five sailors detained in Egypt in 2018 returned to Ukraine. Totally, 17 sailors were arrested as State Border Guard Service of Ukraine reported. The border guards of Odesa unit processed five sailors through a separate corridor. The sailors, the citizens of Ukraine, arrived by the flight from Istanbul. Besides, the ship Sea Shark with crude oil has been kept by the Armed Forces of Egypt in the area of Ain Sokhna since December 2018. There were 31 crew members on board, including 17 Ukrainians, two Crimean sailors, 11 citizens from India, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka, and one more Azerbaijani citizen. The tanker was detained by the Navy of Egypt due to unintentional and accidental entry into the territorial waters of the country. Sailors were sued for crossing the Egyptian waters for $56 million, which must be paid by the owner of the ship. Since then, the shipowner and freighter have been negotiating with the Egyptian fleet to release the ship and to organize a change of crew. The crew was divided into two groups and gathered in two smokehouses. Some sailors had increased blood pressure, because of poor health. The captain asked the Egyptian military to provide medical assistance to the sailors, but they refused. On May 25, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea satisfied the demands of Ukraine on the temporary measures, which should be assumed by Russia. Particularly, the court obliged Russia to immediately release the Ukrainian sailors and allow them to return to Ukraine. According to the decision of the court, Russia is obliged to execute the decision of the tribunal up to June 25, 2019. The parties have processed the algorithm to conclude an agreement on facilitation and cancelation of visa demands for all Ukrainians and Mexicans Open source Ukraine and Mexico started preparing to set the bilateral visa-free regime, as the press office of Ukrainian Foreign Ministry reported. It was reported that bilateral consultations took place; the parties analyzed the state and perspective of the cooperation in visa and migration sector. Delegations paid attention to the topic of mutual cancelation of visa demands for the citizens of Ukraine and Mexico. Taking into account the tendency to the increase of Ukrainians and Mexicans who travel, the visa-free regime will give a strong impetus to the development of multi-pronged, bilateral cooperation, primarily touristic, trade and economic, investing, scientific and cultural, and other spheres, the message reads. Besides, it was reported that the parties have processed the algorithm to conclude an agreement on facilitation and cancelation of visa demands for all Ukrainians and Mexicans. It should be noted that over two years of a visa-free regime between Ukraine and Europe, Ukrainians made over 33 million trips to EU member states and the Schengen zone member countries. Open source Another court session in the case of accusation against Ukraines Infrastructure Minister Volodymyr Omelyan for the false declaration was held in Solomyansky District City Court of Kyiv. Prosecutors from Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAP) were present at the session on May 27, as SAP press office reported. At the hearing, SAP announced the indictment. Besides, the court defined the order and amount of evidence to be obtained. Next session is scheduled on August 23, 2019. Earlier, Ukraines Anti-Corruption Bureau informed Infrastructure Minister Omelyan of the suspected illicit enrichment. NABU representatives stated that from January 1, 2000 to April, 26, 2018 Omelyan received $77,500 of official income. Another $123,214 were at his expenses within the period from 2008 till April 26, 2015. Later, NABU detectives claimed that the crimes of Omelyan are not considered grave so they will demand to choose the restrictive measure for the minister in the form of bail in the sum of almost $179,000. On September 19, Solomianskyi District Court of Kyiv arrested the property of Volodymyr Omelyan. Later, on April 3, the court closed the case on illicit enrichment against Infrastructure Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Omelyan. "I have no political ambitions, as I have already held all the posts," Saakashvili Former President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili on air of Pulse political talk, May 28, 2019 112 Agency Former President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili claimed the absence of political ambitions in Ukraine on the air of Pulse political talk show on 112 Ukraine. I have no political ambitions, as I have already held all the posts, I have seen everything. I will be very careful when I agree on something. I have been through this, I have seen how it looks like and I do not die to hold some posts, he stated. Mikheil Saakashvili has got his Ukrainian citizenship again. This is mentioned in the decree of President Volodymyr Zelensky, who reinstated the citizenship of the former Georgian president. Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko stated that Saakashvili financed the protests for the seizure of state power in Ukraine for the money of ex-President Viktor Yanukovych associates, in particular, Serhiy Kurchenko. In December 2017, Saakashvili was detained on suspicion of assisting members of a criminal organization and promoting criminal activity. He was informed of suspicion. In February 2018, he was deported from Ukraine to Poland; he's been staying in Warsaw until now. Trump's comments focused largely on economic issues, expressing his expectations of reaching trade deals with Japan and China that would reduce U.S. trade deficits, and highlighting what he sees as the "tremendous economic potential" that awaits North Korea if it makes an agreement that includes giving up its nuclear weapons. Abe said the tests did violate the Security Council resolution. He also repeatedly stressed that in negotiations with North Korea his government is most interested in resolving the issue of North Korean abductions of Japanese citizens. Speaking during a joint news conference after talks in Tokyo, Trump said he viewed the tests as a bid for attention by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and that he was not personally bothered by them. U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed differing views Monday on whether recent North Korean missile tests violated a UN Security Council resolution, but remained united on the ultimate goal of achieving a denuclearized Korean Peninsula. Abe welcomed what he called the steady progress of trade talks with the United States, particularly regarding energy, digital and infrastructure sectors. He said he looks forward to further cooperation and celebrated Trump's visit as an exhibit to the world of the "unshakeable bond" the two countries possess. No quick breakthrough on trade was expected although both leaders have expressed a desire for a bilateral trade pact after Trump pulled the United States out of the comprehensive 12-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership, which Tokyo had spearheaded with Washington under Trump's predecessor, Barack Obama. At the start of their talks Monday, Trump said he would be fine with Abe serving as a mediator between the United States and Iran. "The prime minister has already spoken to me about that," Trump said in response to a question from VOA. "And I do believe that Iran would like to talk and if they'd like to talk we'd like to talk also. We'll see what happens. But I know for a fact that the prime minister is very close with the leadership of Iran." Trump later at the news conference beside Abe said, "I think we'll make a deal." "It has a chance to be a great country, with the same leadership. We're not looking for regime change. I just want to make that clear. We're looking for no nuclear weapons," Trump added. U.S.-Iran tensions escalated in recent weeks as Trump ended waivers that had allowed some of Iran's biggest oil buyers to continue making purchases despite new U.S. sanctions, and as he increased the U.S. military presence in the Gulf in response to what he said were Iranian threats. Earlier Monday, Trump became the first foreign leader to meet with Emperor Naruhito, who ascended to the throne May 1. Trump and first lady Melania Trump took part in an elaborate welcoming ceremony at the Imperial Palace. The U.S. delegation was greeted at the palace by several dozen elementary schoolchildren waving Japanese and American flags. A military band played the U.S. "Star Spangled Banner" and Japan's "Kimigayo" anthems. The emperor is hosting an imperial banquet at the palace Monday night. "Our alliance is a rich inheritance we must pass on to our children," Trump said in remarks he read at the start of the formal dinner in the palace's largest banquet hall, known as the Houmei-den, which was attended by 180 guests. Before Trump departs Japan on Tuesday, he is to visit the naval base at Yokosuka to tour a Japanese helicopter carrier and address American service personnel in conjunction with the U.S. Memorial Day holiday (observed on Monday). He specified that Yury Lutsenko publishes on the social network such information, which he should not reveal Kestutis Lancinskas, the EUAM Head Delfi Head of the European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM) in Ukraine Kestutis Lancinskas stated that the prosecutor should become the prosecutor general but not a politician as European Truth reported. Because the prosecutor should be a prosecutor general, not a politician. My opinion is not a secret for a long time. A prosecutor has no right to be politicized and has no right t present one or another political force. It does not happen so anywhere. It is the way it should be in Ukraine either, Lancinskas stated. He specified that Prosecutor General Yury Lutsenko publishes on the social network such information, which he should not reveal. Whether it is normal when the results of the forensics report Katia Handziuk appear there? It is unacceptable! Or, even if it is an old story when the names of the undercover NABU detectives were published, he stated. According to him, the highest-ranking professional, who serves to the law, should occupy this position. Moreover, the prosecutor general should be a professional lawyer. Besides, Lancinskas stated about the necessity of the complete recertification of the workers of the Prosecutor General. As we reported the protesters demanded resignation of Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko and Interior Minister Arsen Avakov. A fight occurred during the protest action. Former president of Georgia was stripped of his Ukrainian citizenship on suspicion of assisting members of a criminal organization and promoting criminal activity Open source Mikheil Saakashvili got his Ukrainian citizenship - again. This is mentioned in the decree of President Volodymyr Zelensky who reinstated the citizenship of the former Georgian president. On July 26, 2017, President Petro Poroshenko, by his decree, ceased Ukrainian citizenship of Saakashvili. On January 29, the Supreme Court began to consider the legality of this decision. On February 12, 2018, the border guards expelled the ex-president of Georgia from Ukraine to Poland as part of the readmission procedure. Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko stated that Saakashvili financed the protests for the seizure of state power in Ukraine for the money of ex-President Viktor Yanukovych associates, in particular, Serhiy Kurchenko. In December 2017, Saakashvili was detained on suspicion of assisting members of a criminal organization and promoting criminal activity. He was informed of suspicion. In February 2018, he was deported from Ukraine to Poland; he's been staying in Warsaw until now. He has not decided which party to join Ukraines Infrastructure Minister Volodymyr Omelyan said he would run in parliamentary elections, as Interfax reported. Yet he has not decided what party to join. Omelyan said he is not negotiating with any political party. I do not exclude that (intentions to run in parliamentary elections, - ed.), but I want to understand with whom, for the sake of what and how. These must be transparent and fair elections, not just for me, but for the society. If I see that it complies with my personal principles, I will be ready to join that political force, Omelyan said. Besides, he noted that maybe he would enter political life beyond the parliament. He has not made a final decision yet. Earlier, Ukraines Infrastructure Minister Volodymyr Omelyan claimed he wanted to enter politics. He has noted that he wants to see active and effective work of ZeTeam. FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. -- The transition from civilian to soldier can be a culture shock, but for one new soldier, the challenge of adapting to a new culture is far from a unique experience. Ten years ago, with only an 8th-grade education, and the drive and motivation to start a new life, Pvt. Malinda Dennison left her small Amish community in Spartansburg, Pennsylvania. With the help of friends, she started on the path that led her to graduate from Fort Leonard Wood May 23 as a military police Soldier with Company E, 795th Military Police Battalion. Her journey from Amish to Army has been full of challenges, but using skills derived from her upbringing, she has achieved goals she never thought possible. These goals included obtaining her GED and driver's license, and starting a career. "I got my Certified Nursing Assistant certification, and I got a new vehicle. After six months I moved into my own apartment. After that everything fell into place," she said. "I didn't want to leave (my community) and not have anything besides being a mom." While enrolled in college, she met her husband, Sgt. 1st Class, Ross Dennison, Fort Campbell, Kentucky, who she said inspired her to join the Army through his service. "That's where I got to know about the military. My husband was an inspiration." Malinda said. "I don't think I ever would have joined if it wasn't for being around the Army already." She wanted to join the Army seven years ago, but the timing wasn't right. She had two more children and continued her career in the medical field. As the age cut-off for enlistment approached, her husband told her it was now or never. "My husband said if you're going to do it, you've got to do it now," she said. During the enlistment process, with support and encouragement from her husband, she took the opportunity to prepare herself for the challenges she would face. She hired a personal trainer and studied for the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery. Malinda said her Amish upbringing helped make the transition to Army life a smooth one. "We were taught to get up early in the morning and work, and that is what we do here," she said. Ross agreed that her Amish background has its advantages when adapting to new situations like initial entry training. "I think it gives her a mental advantage over the culture shock most experience when they first join. Malinda grew up with a strong work ethic, and a great desire to succeed. She doesn't like the idea of giving up," he said. "Her upbringing gave her the ability to adapt and excel in everything she does." According to Capt. Joseph Lonergan, Co. E. 795th MP Bn. Commander, a spectrum of new skills are needed in the Army, and these skills are more likely to be met by recruiting trainees from a diverse representation of America. "Varied perspectives help Soldiers generate more ideas when working as a team. Looking at solutions from all angles is critical to problem-solving and mission success," Lonergan said. Malinda hopes to inspire others, especially her children, through her accomplishments. She has advice for those who want to join. "Anyone can do it. I believe it is all in the mindset and how you look at it. If you say you can't do it, you're not going to be able to do it," she said. "There are some things I felt like I couldn't do in the beginning, I was not as confident as I am now. I learned a lot and did things I never thought I would do." When asked which Army values best describe Malinda, Ross cites duty and integrity. "She loves to learn and constantly seeks out new things to try. She isn't afraid to fail and learn from it," Ross said. "She is very curious. She is honest and isn't afraid to do the right thing. Malinda will do her best to get the job done to the best of her ability." Malinda said she could not have done this without the help of the drill sergeants in her company. After graduation, she will be assigned to a Military Police Reserve Unit in Nashville, Tennessee. She chose the Army Reserves so she can work and continue her education while serving her country, and she plans to go active when her husband retires. "My plan is to retire from the Army. I'm not going to go through this and get out. In five years, hopefully, I'll be in the Active Guard Reserves," Malinda said. PLEASE NOTE! Due to the March 23, 2020 NM DOH Public Health Order, These Event Listings Are Not Accurate! All non-essential businesses are closed, public gatherings are prohibited! (One day some of these events will be rescheduled or will resume, but they are not happening now!) Korea will open its first arrivals duty-free shops at Incheon International Airport on Friday. The shops will sell alcoholic drinks, cosmetics, perfumes and souvenirs to shoppers who failed to stock up on departure but not tobacco products. They will save travelers the inconvenience of having to carry their purchases on board and create scores of jobs at Incheon. Huawei is turning to parts suppliers in Korea, Japan and Taiwan as a U.S. boycott bites and crisis envelops the Chinese tech giant. Some market research agencies expect Huawei to suffer up to a 24-percent decline in smartphone sales this year. According to Huawei Korea on Monday, executives from headquarters in Beijing came here last Thursday and Friday to meet executives at Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, Samsung Display and LG Display to discuss long-term supply contracts for memory chips, OLED panels and camera modules. Korean manufacturers sold US$10.7 billion worth of parts to Huawei last year. "Now Google, Qualcomm and ARM have stopped doing business with Huawei, a halt in supplies from Korean manufacturers could deal an irrecoverable blow," an industry insider here said. "Huawei seems to be getting desperate and looking to strengthen ties with Korean, Japanese and Taiwanese suppliers." The first sign of the U.S. boycott hitting home was that prices of secondhand Huawei smartphones plunged. At British used-phone vendor musicMagpie on Sunday, a secondhand Huawei P30 Pro cost 100 pounds just one month after hitting store shelves, one-ninth the price of a new one, while the price of a secondhand Samsung Galaxy S10 Pro dropped less than 50 percent. In Singapore, a used P30 Pro costs only 100 Singaporean dollars. Samsung is already swooping on Huawei users in Singapore and other parts of Southeast Asia by offering discounts of up to 755 Singaporean dollars to Huawei users who turn in their phones and buy a Galaxy S10 instead. North Korea on Monday hurled insults at U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton over his comments that the regime's latest missile tests violated UN Security Council resolutions. It claimed that two projectiles it launched two weeks ago were not ballistic missiles that could provide a reason for additional sanctions. A North Korean Foreign Ministry spokesman told state media on Monday, "Bolton said our regular military drills violated UNSC resolutions, which is beyond stupid. Whatever is launched is bound to fly drawing a ballistic trajectory. What the U.S. is taking the issues is not about the range but the prohibition of the launch itself using ballistic technology." "That is, after all, tantamount to a demand that [North Korea] should give up its self-defensive right," he added. The spokesman denounced the UN sanctions as "illegal and outrageous" and said the regime has neither accepted them nor is bound by them. GM Korea on Monday broke ground on a new paint shop in Changwon, South Gyeongsang Province. The new 67,000 sq. m facility capable of spray-painting up to 60 cars an hour is expected to open in the first half of 2021. The automaker shut down an assembly plant in Gunsan, North Jeolla Province in May last year, and the U.S. parent company pledged fresh investment in return for a massive government bailout here. A North Korean participant in cross-border talks last week dismissed an offer from Seoul of food aid for the renegade country, saying it is "not a fundamental solution to the stalemate in inter-Korean relations." The remarks were made by a South Korean participant, Han Chun-mok, in a press briefing on Monday after representatives of the two sides met in the Chinese city of Shenyang last Thursday. North Korean participants instead urged the South Koreans to implement joint-Korean declarations and dismissed humanitarian aid as a secondary issue. Seoul made the offer after North Korea last month begged the international community for food aid although there are no clear signs of a shortage. According to Han, the North Koreans said humanitarian aid should not bypass "fundamental issues" that froze inter-Korean ties again earlier this year. That mainly seems to mean that North Korea wants the South to do more to ease international sanctions. Most of the agreements between the two Koreas signed since the first cross-border summit in 2000 are now obsolete, but North Korea likes to dig them up whenever it feels it can pressure a South Korean government that has votes to win from friendly ties with Pyongyang. The North Koreans also complained about a planned visit by South Korean manufacturers to the shuttered joint-Korean Kaesong Industrial Complex to check on their equipment there. Amid reports that the North has been stealing equipment to manufacture clothing on its own, the North Koreans said they do not want an inspection but reopening of the industrial park. They also claimed that the planned inspection "is incompatible" with inter-Korean agreements. The talks were originally scheduled to last until Sunday, but the North Koreans canceled the remainder of the schedule after Thursday's contretemps. Asked whether the two Koreas should jointly host events in Pyongyang on June 15 to mark the anniversary of the first inter-Korean summit in 2000, the North Korean delegates said they would "consider" the suggestion to see if "circumstances are appropriate." New organic flow battery brings decomposing molecules back to life After years of making progress on an organic aqueous flow battery, Harvard University researchers ran into a problem: the organic anthraquinone molecules that powered their ground-breaking battery were slowly decomposing over time, reducing the long-term usefulness of the battery. Now, the researchers -- led by Michael Aziz, the Gene and Tracy Sykes Professor of Materials and Energy Technologies at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) and Roy Gordon, the Thomas Dudley Cabot Professor of Chemistry and Professor of Materials Science -- have figured out not only how the molecules decompose, but also how to mitigate and even reverse the decomposition. The death-defying molecule, named DHAQ in their paper but dubbed the "zombie quinone" in the lab, is among the cheapest to produce at large scale. The team's rejuvenation method cuts the capacity fade rate of the battery at least a factor of 40, while enabling the battery to be composed entirely of low-cost chemicals. The research was published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society. "Low mass-production cost is really important if organic flow batteries are going to gain wide market penetration," said Aziz. "So, if we can use these techniques to extend the DHAQ lifetime to decades, then we have a winning chemistry." "This is a major step forward in enabling us to replace fossil fuels with intermittent renewable electricity," said Gordon. Since 2014, Aziz, Gordon and their team have been pioneering the development of safe and cost-effective organic aqueous flow batteries for storing electricity from intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar and delivering it when the wind isn't blowing and the sun isn't shining. Their batteries use molecules known as anthraquinones, which are composed of naturally abundant elements such as carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, to store and release energy. At first, the researchers thought that the lifetime of the molecules depended on how many times the battery was charged and discharged, like in solid-electrode batteries such as lithium ion. However, in reconciling inconsistent results, the researchers discovered that these anthraquinones are decomposing slowly over the course of time, regardless of how many times the battery has been used. They found that the amount of decomposition was based on the calendar age of the molecules, not how often they've been charged and discharged. That discovery led the researchers to study the mechanisms by which the molecules were decomposing. "We found that these anthraquinone molecules, which have two oxygen atoms built into a carbon ring, have a slight tendency to lose one of their oxygen atoms when they're charged up, becoming a different molecule," said Gordon. "Once that happens, it starts of a chain reaction of events that leads to irreversible loss of energy storage material." The researchers found two techniques to avoid that chain reaction. The first: expose the molecule to oxygen. The team found that if the molecule is exposed to air at just the right part of its charge-discharge cycle, it grabs the oxygen from the air and turns back into the original anthraquinone molecule -- as if returning from the dead. A single experiment recovered 70 percent of the lost capacity this way. Second, the team found that overcharging the battery creates conditions that accelerate decomposition. Avoiding overcharging extends the lifetime by a factor of 40. "In future work, we need to determine just how much the combination of these approaches can extend the lifetime of the battery if we engineer them right," said Aziz. "The decomposition and rebirth mechanisms are likely to be relevant for all anthraquinones, and anthraquinones have been the best-recognized and most promising organic molecules for flow batteries," said Gordon. "This important work represents a significant advance toward low-cost, long-life flow batteries," said Imre Gyuk, Director of the Department of Energy's Office of Electricity Storage program. "Such devices are needed to allow the electric grid to absorb increasing amounts of green but variable renewable generation." ### This research was co-authored by Marc-Antoni Goulet, Liuchuan Tong, Daniel A. Pollack, and Daniel P. Tabor, all from Harvard; and Susan A. Odom of the University of Kentucky; and Ala?n Aspuru-Guzik of the University of Toronto. The research was supported by the Energy Storage program of the U.S. Department of Energy, the Advanced Research Projects Agency - Energy, the Innovation Fund Denmark, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center, and Harvard SEAS. With assistance from Harvard's Office of Technology Development (OTD), the researchers are seeking commercial partners to scale up the technology for industrial applications. Harvard OTD has filed a portfolio of pending patents on innovations in flow battery technology. This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Shanghai Party Secretary Li meets Taiwan delegation From:Shine | 2019-05-27 17:29 Li Qiang, Party secretary of Shanghai, met Yok Mu-ming, chairman of the Taiwan-based New Party, and his delegation yesterday. The important speech by President Xi Jinping on the 40th anniversary of the Chinese mainlands Message to Compatriots in Taiwan on January 2, 2019 has become a guideline for developing peaceful cross-Strait relationship, rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and the peaceful reunification of China, Li said. Shanghai and Taiwan should strengthen exchanges and cooperation in all fields and make more contributions to the deepening of integrated development and welfare of people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, Li added. We will uphold the basic principles of the one country, two systems, uphold the 1992 Consensus based on the one-China principle and battle against Taiwan independence in order to push forward the peaceful development of cross-Strait relationship together, Yok said. Yok is leading a delegation of personages from various circles in Taiwan on his visit to the Chinese mainland from May 24 to 30. The delegation will also visit Guangdong, Jiangsu and Beijing during the trip. Zheng Gangmiao, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Shanghai Committee, also attended the meeting. Singing the praises of Zhongshan Park From:Shine | 2019-05-27 17:29 A performance of festive songs by the Shanghai Song and Dance Ensemble is staged in Zhongshan Park. Ballets, concerts and acrobatic shows by groups from all over the country can be seen inZhongshan Park this week, as part of the 12th China Art Festival. A performance of festive songs by the Shanghai Song and Dance Ensemble was staged on the grass inthepark over the weekend to launch the series of outdoor events. The park is the only outdoor venue in this year's festival. Shanghai's capricious weather is a big problem when scheduling outdoor events. Strong winds, heavy rainand high temperature can strike, so Shanghai Meteorological Bureau is closely monitoring conditions around the park. We're ready to cancel the performance in the event of heavy rain.If it is just drizzle, we have sustainable rain ponchos for the audience, said Kang Wenhua, Party secretary of the Changning District Tourism and Culture Bureau. The free tickets were all snapped up online two weeks ago. The atmosphere outdoors is always livelier than indoors, said Wang Jing from the Shanghai Song and Dance Ensemble, a dancerin Crested Ibises, one of 10 performances on Saturday. 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 UK's Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund announces latest grant awards Seven innovative research projects tackling pancreatic cancer have been awarded grants totalling 1.2M by the UK medical research charity, Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund (PCRF). This is the fourth year that the charity has been able to allocate over 1M for research projects and brings its project portfolio spend to over 9M, with an additional 2M committed to the world's first national pancreas tissue bank, created in 2016 to further accelerate research progress. The new projects span early diagnosis, potential new treatments and fundamental research to find out why immunotherapy does not yet work with pancreatic cancer. They include the progression of promising virotherapy research, a unique technology to tag unwanted proteins and trigger their destruction and testing whether machine learning techniques can help identify those at risk from developing the disease. Maggie Blanks, PCRF's founder and Chief Executive, said: "Research is the only way we'll find better ways of tackling pancreatic cancer and we need to keep pushing the boundaries of different research approaches. These projects involve new ideas, new technologies and new techniques that excited our Scientific Advisory Panel and we're keen to see what they deliver." The seven awards are: Dr Richard Clarkson, Cardiff University Normal cells are programmed to die if they become damaged or diseased in a process called apoptosis, but pancreatic cancer cells contain a molecule called c-FLIP which stalls this process. Dr Clarkson has shown in laboratory tests that blocking c-FLIP from working 'releases the brakes' on the anti-tumour process. He now wants to see if this works in mice with pancreatic tumours and will test new ways to block c-FLIP. Professor Laura Itzhaki, University of Cambridge Cells stay healthy by tagging faulty proteins with a molecule called ubiquitin that acts like an address label, sending the proteins to be destroyed by the cell's waste-disposal machinery. Prof Itzhaki has developed a technology that mimics this process, forcing ubiquitin to attach to selected proteins and trigger their destruction. This project will test if the technology can eliminate proteins produced by a faulty gene called KRAS, which is found in many pancreatic cancers. Dr Gunnel Hallden, Queen Mary University of London Dr Hallden is progressing her PCRF-funded research which aims to use a flu-like virus, delivered into the bloodstream, to seek out and infect pancreatic cancer cells wherever they are in the body. This project will identify new drugs that improve the ability of the virus to replicate inside the cancer cells and spread within the tumour, which should stimulate the immune system to provide long-term protection from the disease coming back. Dr Naomi Walsh, Dublin City University, Ireland Dr Walsh aims to design chemotherapy drugs that will target and kill types of cancer stem cells within pancreatic tumours that are responsible for drug resistance and relapse. These drugs are designed using new techniques which enable them to be transported directly into the cancer cells. This means that patients could be given smaller doses and experience fewer side effects. It may also allow more patients to benefit from these new treatments. Dr Laura Woods, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Dr Woods's project addresses the challenge of diagnosing pancreatic cancer earlier. She will apply 'machine learning' techniques to an historic, anonymised database of thousands of GP records to examine whether people who later developed pancreatic cancer shared similar early warning signs detectable before diagnosis. This could provide means of identifying a population of patients whom it would be cost-effective to screen, and increase the number of cancers diagnosed at a treatable stage. Professor Maeve Lowery, Trinity College Dublin Some pancreatic cancer patients have faults in genes involved in repairing DNA, such as the BRCA2 gene, which makes the cancer more likely to respond to certain treatments. Professor Lowery will study tumour samples to find changes in different regions of these genes and assess how this affects the response to drugs which target defective DNA repair. She hopes the results will inform a clinical trial where patients are matched with drugs most likely to benefit them. Professor Hemant Kocher, Queen Mary University of London Professor Kocher's project will investigate why immunotherapy - a treatment which harnesses the patient's immune system to kill cancer cells - works with some cancers but not with pancreatic cancer. The team will investigate how immune cells interact with each other and are either triggered or dampened in pancreatic cancer. The aim of this project is to determine the most effective way of combining immunotherapy and chemotherapy in future pancreatic cancer clinical trials. ### This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. . , . ... Disclaimer Everything here is fiction. If you have any thoughts about me, I have but one advice: shine it up real nice, roll it up real tight, turn that sumbitch sideways, and shove it up your ass. Fucking Stats NO! I do not want to know how many thousands of people read my shit. And NO! I don't want to know who! Compartimos la Declaracion Presidencial Conjunta entre el Peru y Colombia, suscrita hoy en Lima, en el marco de la Visita de Estado a nuestro pais del Presidente colombiano, Ivan Duque. ?https://t.co/5smyH5Bwiw pic.twitter.com/tL8VFoOXwM Presidente @MartinVizcarraC: Es la primera vez que se realiza una declaratoria de emergencia en 24 horas, eso demuestra nuestra voluntad de trabajo. Ahora, alcaldes y gobernadores cuentan con los recursos para atender mas rapido a los damnificados por el sismo. pic.twitter.com/ZS6LgCWIps 09:15 | Geneva (Switzerland), May. 28. The prize was handed out during the 72nd session of the World Health Assembly, which convened from May 20-28 in Geneva. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus , Nippon Foundation Executive Director Ichiro Kabasawa, and other authorities were present at the event. "On behalf of Peru and, particularly, of Andean and Amazon indigenous peoples who fight chronic malnutrition and anemia, I am grateful for this award conferred to former Mayor of Iguain district Eusebio Quispe, which is also a testimony of the efforts and achievements made by people and authorities of this province in Ayacucho region to prevent children's motor-cognitive development, and their capacity to become happy well rounded women and men, from being affected by anemia," Director General of International Cooperation at Peru's Ministry of Health Wieslawa de Pawlikowski said. According to the official, the experience of the Iguain community proves this, as well as the leadership of authorities and supportive locals concerned about children and youth's future. "Anemia is cruel, cuts short lives and future. Based on the intersectoral principle of the Almaty Conference, the Peruvian State implements a Multisectoral Plan to Fight Anemia, which brings together all State sectors under the lead of the President of the Republic and has gathered legislators, politicians, media, civil society and, more importantly, citizens from all over the country," De Pawlikowski underscored. The prize The prize was established in 1984 upon the initiative and with funds provided by Mr. Ryoichi, Chairman of the Japan Shipbuilding Industry Foundation and President of the Sasakawa Memorial Health Foundation. The Sasakawa Health Prize consists of a statuette and a sum of the order of US$30,000 to be given to one or more persons, institutions or non-governmental organizations having accomplished outstanding innovative work in health development, in order to encourage the further development of such work. (END) NDP/MAO/RMB/MVB Iguain a remote district in Huanta province of Andean Ayacucho region has become the new face in the fight against childhood anemia in Peru by reducing such rate in children under 3 years from 65% to 12%.Published: 5/28/2019 Roasting Plant Closes An angry franchisee exits. by Sabine Bickford From the May, 2019 issue The pneumatic tube-powered Roasting Plant coffee shop on State St. closed its doors at the end of March. The closure came five months after Michigan franchisee Mike Shehadi's million-dollar lawsuit against the NYC-based Roasting Plant, Inc., was dismissed in US District Court. Shehadi, who also had a Roasting Plant in Dearborn Heights, claimed that he'd been misled about the profitability of the business. The case was dismissed because Shehadi's franchise contract contained an agreement to resolve disputes through arbitration. It's unclear if arbitration took place, but by April both of his stores were closed. Roasting Plant's chief sales and marketing officer, Thomas Hartocollis, declined to comment on the closings. Got a retail or restaurant change? Email sabine@aaobserver.com or leave voicemail at (734) 769-3175 x 330. [Originally published in May, 2019.] YEREVAN, MAY 28, ARMENPRESS. (Press Release) On 28 May Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan sent a congratulatory address in connection with the Day of the First Armenian Republic. The address runs as follows: Dear compatriots, On behalf of the Artsakh Republic authorities and myself personally I extend my most heartfelt congratulations on the Day of the First Armenian Republic. Today is a special day for all Armenians in Armenia, Artsakh and the Diaspora, residing both in the Motherland and beyond its borders. It is hard to imagine what would have happened to our people if the First Armenian Republic had not been established in 1918, if our grandfathers had not heroically stood up against the enemy and had not carved the glorious victories of Sardarapat, Bash Aparan and Gharakilisa. Those victories seemed incredible and inconceivable to many, but not to us. The Armenian people, who had just witnessed the genocide, had lost their homeland and native soil, had no alternative but to straighten their bent back and continue the centuries-old path, continue with dignity and with a stance inherent to the Armenian. This was also the case during the Artsakh liberation war when the whole Armenian people consolidated and prevented another genocide, united and continued the series of the May victories, liberated the ancient fortress-town Shoushi, defended and developed the land of the forefathers. Today it is our duty to put concerted efforts into further strengthening the independent Armenian statehood, developing our Motherland, keeping our Trinity unshakable. I once again congratulate our whole people on this most significant holiday and wish peace, greatest success, new victories and achievements. YEREVAN, MAY 28, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashiyan held a meeting on May 28 in Yerevan with Stanislav Zas, Belaruss Secretary of Security Council and candidate for Secretary General of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). Ambassador of Belarus to Armenia Igor Nazaruk was also present at the meeting, the PMs office said in a readout. The CSTO chiefs office is vacant since November 2018, when Secretary General Yuri Khachaturov, an Armenian general, was dismissed by the organization following Yerevans initiation of criminal proceedings against him in a case concerning the 2008 post-election unrest. In 2008, Khachaturov was commanding the Yerevan garrison of the military. The PM welcomed the officials and highlighted the fact that CSTO member states reached agreement regarding the candidacy for Secretary General. I am happy that we reached agreement that from January 1, 2020 you will assume the CSTO Secretary General office at the principle of rotation. The CSTO is one of the most important elements of Armenias security system and Armenia is interested in the productive work of the Organization. CSTO activities in our region must contribute to maintenance of balance and peace in our region, Pashinyan said. The Armenian PM added that CSTO members must act in conformity with the spirit and letter of the Organizations charter, and that Armenia is committed to these principles. He expressed hope that Stanislav Zas in his future capacity will contribute to cooperation in the security sector between member states and raising effectiveness of collective security. Zas thanked PM Pashinyan for the reception and for Armenias approval of his candidacy. He noted that during his tenure he will make maximum efforts to increase the productivity of the CSTO activities and to develop cooperation between its member states. The sides also discussed issues concerning cooperation within the Organization. Security challenges, military-technical partnership, maintenance of military balance in the region and other topics were addressed. Pashinyan added that Armenia is set for continuing joint work in an atmosphere of dialogue for developing a working agenda and mutually beneficial cooperation. Zas once more emphasized that by assuming the Secretary General position from 2020 he will serve for the realization of these very goals and will strengthen security partnership between the member countries. Stanislav Zas also congratulated the PM and the Armenian people on the occasion of Republic Day, May 28th, wishing peace, welfare and prosperity. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MAY 28, ARMENPRESS. Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite congratulated Armenian President Armen Sarkissian and the Armenian nation on Republic Day. The President wished that consistently developed and open cooperation on bilateral level as well as at the EU level did not lose the momentum and opened many more opportunities for our countries to achieve shared objectives and implement beneficial business, trade, culture, science and other relevant projects for the people of Lithuania and Armenia, Grybauskaites office said in a news release. President Grybauskaite wished Armenia continued prosperity, success and unity. On May 28th, Armenia celebrates Republic Day, a holiday marking the established of the First Armenian Republic in 1918. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan SARDARAPAT, MAY 28, ARMENPRESS. President Armen Sarkissian, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Catholicos Garegin II, government officials, foreign diplomats and lawmakers and numerous other visitors today honored the 101st anniversary of the First Armenian Republic in a ceremony at the Sardarapat Memorial. The officials laid a wreath in tribute to the memory of the fallen heroes of the Sardarapat Battle. The Catholicos then delivered a prayer. Then the president and the prime minister, accompanied by other officials, participated in the inauguration of a memorial to Aram Manukyan, the statesman and founder of the First Armenian Republic. The monument was opened in honor of Manukyans 140th anniversary of birth. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MAY 28, ARMENPRESS. Armenian President Armen Sarkissian has congratulated Ethiopia on its National Day through a letter sent to President Sahle-Work Zewde. Ethiopia marks the Derg Downfall Day on May 28th, commemorating the 1991 end of the Derga junta. In the letter, President Sarkissian told Zewde that relations beween Armenia and Ethiopia are developing in an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect, Sarkissians Office said in a news release. The two peoples history of friendship spanning through millennia is a solid basis for further strengthening and deepening relations and cooperation between the two countries, the President of Armenia said in the letter. Sarkissian wished Zewde success, and to the people of Ethiopia peace and welfare. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MAY 28, ARMENPRESS. Austria's parliament has removed Chancellor Sebastian Kurz from office, with his previous coalition ally, the Freedom Party (FPO), and the opposition Social Democrats (SPO) on Monday backing the no-confidence motion during a special session, BBC reported. The President of Austria has formally dismissed Kurz from office. The FPO had become embroiled in a political scandal caused by a leaked secret video alleging corruption within government circles. On Tuesday, Austria's President Alexander Van der Bellen appointed an interim government led by Vice-Chancellor Hartwig Loger. The president asked for some ministers to say in office during the transitional period. General elections are expected in September. Loger is a member of Kurz's People's Party (OVP) and the country's finance minister. He was appointed vice-chancellor days ago after the previous holder of the office, FPO leader Heinz-Christian Strache, was sacked over the video sting. Kurz was elected in 2017, he was at 31 the world's youngest state leader. The video sting has widely been labelled "Ibiza-gate", after the Spanish island where the footage was recorded. It was secretly filmed in July 2017 - just weeks before the election which saw both the FPO and Chancellor Kurz's party perform well. Last week, a Vienna lawyer said he had been involved in the sting, describing it as a "civil society-driven project in which investigative-journalistic approaches were taken". In the footage, released by German media this month, Strache can be seen relaxing and drinking for hours at a villa with FPO parliament group leader Johann Gudenus, while they meet a woman, who says she is Alyona Makarova, the niece of Russian oligarch Igor Makarov. Strache appears to propose offering her public contracts if she buys a large stake in the Austrian newspaper Kroner Zeitung - and compels it to support the FPO. He is heard suggesting that a number of journalists would have to be "pushed" from the newspaper, and that he wants to "build a media landscape like [Viktor] Orban" - referring to Hungary's nationalist prime minister. It later emerged that Makarov does not have a niece, and the whole evening back in 2017 was an elaborate trap. President Van der Bellen then fired FPO Interior Minister Herbert Kickl at the request of Kurz. Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare sits in at a policy meeting. At far left is former PNG chief justice and attorney-general, Sir Arnold Amet MARTYN NAMORONG PORT MORESBY - I know that a lot of people in Papua New Guinea and beyond are asking what the Alternate Government's policies will be. Its important to understand that we need to get into government, and thats whereof our energy is going. Any policy discussion at this stage is just hypothetical until the Alternate Government takes control of government. So lets put the horse before the cart: (1) form government; (2) announce policy. Having said that, the Alternate Government does have a hard-working policy group led by Professor Misty Baloiloi. Professor Baloiloi, who holds a PhD in strategic management, is chief of staff for the opposition and has over 30 years experience in university, public and private sectors, providing leadership in framing a number of PNGs most important policies and plans. There are a number of motions I intend to move. One of them is to challenge your position as Speaker of parliament, Pruaitch said, seeking leave to move the motion. As soon as question time opened Pruaitch - who appears to likely to be the new prime minister if the opposition prevails - proposed a motion to remove Pomat as Speaker. It was clear when parliament resumed at 2pm that the opposition now has a majority on the floor of the house but prime minister Peter O'Neill is refusing to concede that this means the end of his control of parliament and of the country. PORT MORESBY The Papua New Guinea parliament ended in chaos yesterday afternoon after Speaker Job Pomat refused a motion from opposition leader Patrick Pruaitch to suspend standing orders and allow the house to vote to remove him. Peter O'Neill this afternoon showed he is willing to trash democratic parliamentary process to cling on to power Despite the numerical strength of the opposition, Pomat told Pruaitch he would not accept the motion because parliamentary standing orders did not allow for the removal of the Speaker on a motion from the floor. Pomat said it was up to the Speaker to decide if such a motion would be entertained. The house degenerated into chaotic shouting between the beefed up opposition of 67 members and a heavily depleted government side of 44. We are not here for you to dictate on the floor of parliament, Vanimo-Green MP Belden Namah shouted at Pomat. We are not here for you to be the judge. There is a motion on foot. The vote has to take place. The Speaker referred to standing orders to show he could not be removed by what he called an unprecedented request by the opposition. Madang MP Bryan Kramer accused Pomat of attempting to hold on to power, saying, You have to accept [the motion] now. Eventually the Speaker lost control of the house and was advised to suspend parliament. The Guardian reported that at one point several MPs needed to be physically restrained by their colleagues and the Speaker adjourned debate after an hour saying parliament would resume at 10am tomorrow. The Speaker staged a coup in parliament and his actions are unconstitutional, commentator Martyn Namorong observed. Former MP Ron Knight, who was present in the house, said, I really have to apologise for my wantoks [the Speakers] behaviour. He has never had a chair like this. Hes a layman. Reuters reported that after a brief suspension, the opposition won a vote to remove O'Neill's allies from a panel that vets no-confidence motions. We are demonstrating our numerical strength, MP William Duma told Reuters by text, adding that ONeills leadership was doomed. MP Wera Mori, another defector, said a no-confidence motion would be filed tomorrow. Radio New Zealand journalist Johnny Blades recalled that, when removing Sir Michael Somare as prime minister in 2011, O'Neill repeatedly invoked the principle of parliamentary supremacy, whereby the will of a majority of MPs must prevail. [But] now that the majority wants him out, he is no longer talking about the supremacy of parliament. It seems prime minister O'Neill is prepared to tear up the protocols of democratic government to try to cling on to power long enough to add to his dwindling numbers in parliament. This is the man in whom Australia has vested much of its regional credibility in recent years, a man whose obduracy and ego has left PNG in a serious constitutional crisis and as an economic and social shambles. John Paska, president of the PNG Trade Union Congress, issued a statement last night saying the question of the prime ministers post must be put to rest. "This means the vote of no confidence must be allowed to take place without hindrance to parliamentary process and procedures, he said. Paska called on politicians to concentrate on providing responsible leadership and to refrain from abusing the constitution. "The functions of government have been severely affected by all this political manoeuvring which has demoralised the nation," he said. Workers will protect the integrity of our laws and the constitution of the country. "We issue a stern warning to politicians that we shall call workers out on a national stopwork should due process and the constitution be abused or violated." Lawmakers in Argentina launched a fresh bid to legalize abortion on Tuesday, presenting a new bill to Congress and resuming a battle that has divided the homeland of Pope Francis ahead of October's general election. A vast crowd -- mostly young women dressed in green, the color that has come to symbolize their movement -- gathered outside the Congress building in central Buenos Aires since early evening to support the bill. Last year, a bill to decriminalize abortion up to the 14th week of pregnancy was narrowly adopted by the Chamber of Deputies but defeated in the Senate, under strong pressure from the still-powerful Catholic Church. The new bill is being put forward by 15 lawmakers from a range of parties, including President Mauricio Macri's ruling center-right Cambiemos coalition and left-wing opposition parties. The protesters plan to hold a major demonstration into the night to mark the revival of their campaign, hoping for a better ending this year. Similar protests were planned for cities and towns across Argentina. "Everyone has to be able to decide responsibly. Abortion is not easy, but there has to be legislation that allows them to do it with dignity," tourist guide Noelia Patruno, 40, told AFP. In the corner of the square, a smaller group of anti-abortion activists struggled to make themselves heard. "A society that proposes death is not a fair one. Life begins at conception," said Nelida Rodriguez, a 50-year-old store owner wearing a blue scarf to signify the anti-abortion movement. "Why come back with a bill when it was rejected last year?" Victoria Tesoriero, leader of the Campaign for the Right to Legal, Safe and Free Abortion, said activists would keep the pressure on lawmakers ahead of the election, in which a third of Senate seats and half of those in the lower house will be contested. "Presenting the new bill is not only a return to the offensive for abortion rights, but to put pressure on the party lists to make sure that every candidate clearly states their preference," said Tesoriero. The bill is unlikely to return to the Senate before the end of this year, given the elections, observers say. In raucous scenes outside Congress last August, abortion rights campaigners wept and hugged, while fireworks and shouts of joy erupted among anti-abortion activists as the Senate's defeat of the measure was announced. "This time, the issue is already well embedded in society," said Tesoriero. "It will be a more natural question for candidates, who will have to say what position they will take to Congress." - Reluctance to apply law - In Argentina, abortion is only allowed in case of rape, a threat to the mother's life or if the fetus is deemed non-viable. But many doctors and some provincial governments are reluctant to apply the law, recently forcing an 11-year-old rape victim to continue her pregnancy, debating the issue until the legal window for an abortion had passed. Authorities who refused to allow the family's demand for an abortion eventually allowed a cesarean section to be carried out at 23 weeks. The pope, a former archbishop of Buenos Aires, last year compared having an abortion to hiring a "contract killer." "Getting rid of a human being is like resorting to a contract killer to solve a problem," Francis said in an address to worshippers at the Vatican in October. Various charities estimate that 500,000 illegal, secret abortions are carried out every year in Argentina, resulting in the deaths of about 100 women. Amnesty International said the bill was a new opportunity to guarantee women's rights in a country where abortions continued to be carried out in "deplorable conditions." The campaign has gained international visibility with the airing of a documentary by Argentine director Juan Solanas at the Cannes Film Festival last week, where Spanish director Pedro Almodovar and actress Penelope Cruz showed their support by wearing green scarves. Following its legalization in once-conservative Ireland last year, the renewed push in Argentina comes amid efforts by some Republican-led states in the United States to row back on abortion, legal nationwide since 1973. Earlier this month, the US state of Alabama signed the most restrictive abortion law in the country, providing for a near-total prohibition, even in cases of rape and incest. The states of Kentucky, Mississippi and Missouri have also tightened their abortion laws. The state bans have so far either been blocked by a judge or are headed for the courts. A woman at the Buenos Aires pro-abortion demo has the female symbol painted on her face A vast crowd -- mostly young women dressed in green, the color symbolizing their movement -- demonstrated outside the Congress building in Buenos Aires Various charities estimate that 500,000 illegal, secret abortions are carried out every year in Argentina, resulting in the deaths of about 100 women At least 21 civilians were killed on Tuesday as Syria's regime intensified its bombardment of the last jihadist stronghold in the country's northwest, a monitor said. Nine children were among the 21 killed in government fire on several towns in Idlib province and the countryside of neighbouring Aleppo, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Strikes on a busy street in the village of Kafr Halab, on the western edge of Aleppo province, killed at least nine civilians. An AFP photographer said the bodies of the victims were torn apart and several stores lining the side of the road were destroyed. The street was crowded with people out and about before breaking the daytime fast observed by Muslims during the holy month of Ramadan. A hospital in the Idlib town of Kafranbel was also hit by artillery shells, said David Swanson, a spokesman for the UN humanitarian office. "The facility is reportedly out of service due to severe structural damage," he told AFP. The hospital's administrative director Majed al-Akraa confirmed the attack. "The hospital is completely out of service," he said. "It was a strong attack. The generators and even my car caught fire," he told AFP. It follows two days of intensified regime bombardment on the region that killed a total of 31 civilians on Sunday and Monday, according to the Britain-based Observatory. Rescue volunteers and civilians were seen pulling dust-covered victims from the rubble of destroyed buildings in the wake of those strikes. Idlib and parts of the neighbouring provinces of Aleppo, Hama and Latakia are under the control of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a jihadist group led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate. The region is supposed to be protected from a massive government offensive by a September buffer zone deal, but the jihadist bastion has come under increasing bombardment by the regime and its ally Russia since late April. The Observatory says nearly 280 civilians have been killed in the spike in violence since then. More than 200,000 civilians have already been displaced by the upsurge of violence, according to the United Nations. The UN has warned an all-out offensive on the region would lead to a humanitarian catastrophe for its nearly three million residents. At least 20 health facilities have been hit by the escalation -- 19 of which remain out of service, the UN has said. The jihadist bastion in northwest Syria has been hit by several days of heavy regime bombardment Growing numbers of outcast Rohingya refugees are risking their lives by crossing the closed Myanmar-Bangladesh border with narcotics pills packed into their stomachs, police said Tuesday. Scores of Rohingya Muslims, including many women, who fled to camps in Bangladesh after a Myanmar military clampdown in 2017, have been detained in recent months after returning to seek drugs and transport them, according to police. Narcotics control official Soman Mondol said an anti-drug squad had arrested 18 Rohingya near the border town of Teknaf on one day this month and 13 had 'yaba' methamphetamine pills in their stomach. Myanmar has become a major producer of yaba -- a Thai word meaning "crazy medicine" -- which has become wildly popular in Bangladesh, as well as other southeast Asian nations. Refugees earn up to 20,000 taka ($237) for each narcotics trip, Mondol said, adding "for a Rohingya, it's a lot of money." The drug is carried in the stomach where it is difficult to detect without x-ray machines that are rare at border posts, he said. Drug gangs use Rohingya to get the yaba into southern Bangladesh, where almost a million impoverished refugees live in camps, and then send it all over the country of 165 million people, anti-narcotics officials said. Mondol said each carrier swallows a plastic bag of between 500 and 2,000 yaba pills before transporting it across the border. "We are overwhelmed. It's an alarming trend," Faisal Hasan Khan, Bangladesh Border Guard chief in the border town of Teknaf, told AFP. He said about 70 Rohingya had been detained in recent months with hundreds of thousands of pills. Azim Ahmed, head of the police Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) in Teknaf, said the flow of yaba has increased despite a crackdown in the past year in which 400 suspected drug traffickers, including 20 Rohingya, have been shot dead. "Rohingya involvement has phenomenally increased in this trade," he said. According to Ahmed, only 10 percent of the traffickers are being caught. Emdadul Haq, a professor at the private North South University, said gangs take advantage of the poverty of the refugees who are not allowed to work outside their camps or pursue higher education. As part of the crackdown, the Bangladesh parliament made yaba a class-A banned substance in October and parliament passed a law allowing the death penalty for traffickers in the drug. Myanmar has become a major producer of the yaba drug, which has become wildly popular in Bangladesh A Bangladesh Border Guard chief has said his force is 'overwhelmed' by the flow of drugs Reigning champion Simona Halep said she was "confident" for her French Open title defence after an ultimately comfortable first-round victory on Tuesday despite a second-set blip against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic. The Romanian was pegged back on Court Philippe Chatrier but raced through the decider to win 6-2, 3-6, 6-1. Halep, seeded third, will face Poland's Magda Linette for a place in the last 32. "I felt really well for the first round, and I am confident now," she said. "It was a great match... I had to be focused more on myself to find out what I have to play better in the third set to be able to win." Halep won her maiden Grand Slam title in Paris last year after three previous final defeats, putting the persistent questions about her being a world number one without a major trophy to bed. "I feel like I have improved a lot in this year since I won here," added Halep. "I'm a different person. I'm a better person. And now what comes, comes as a bonus. "I had different nerves, for sure, because I'm for the first time in this position to be the defending champion." The 27-year-old looked to be in total control after taking the first set in under half an hour. Tomljanovic, who reached the last 16 in 2014, hit back though to level the match. But Halep, like world number one Naomi Osaka in the preceding match on the show court, avoided an upset by easing through the third set despite being broken when initially serving for the match. Halep finished an accomplished display with 19 winners and 22 unforced errors. The withdrawal of sixth seed Petra Kvitova through injury means that Halep will not have to face another top-10 player until at least the semi-finals. But she insists she will not look too far ahead as she bids to become the first back-to-back women's Roland Garros champion since Belgian Justine Henin won her third consecutive title in 2007. "I have just to take the next round 100 percent serious, and then if I can go through, I will think about the third round," Halep added. "The fact that I am 100 percent fit to be able to play this tournament and to have the chance to leave everything I have on court, I think it's the best thing that can happen to me. I am positive." Halep saw off Tomljanovic to reach the second round US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner met Morocco's King Mohammed VI on Tuesday in Rabat as part of a fresh push on a long-promised but yet-to-be-delivered peace plan for the region. The trip -- which will also include stops in Amman and Jerusalem -- comes amid a flurry of other administration moves to shore up alliances with Arab allies against Iran and the deployment of warships and bombers to the region. Kushner is accompanied by Jason Greenblatt, Trump's special representative for international negotiations, and Brian Hook, the special US representative for Iran. The meeting in Rabat focused on developments in the Middle East and North Africa as well as strengthening the partnership between Morocco and the US, a palace spokesman told AFP. Greenblatt tweeted that he and Kushner shared an iftar dinner -- the traditional meal to break the daily fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan -- with Morocco's king, Crown Prince Moulay Hassan and Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. "Thank you to His Majesty for a special evening and for sharing your wisdom," Greenblatt wrote. "Morocco is an important friend & ally of the United States." The Trump administration is expected to unveil the peace plan -- after numerous failures by its predecessors -- possibly as early as next month, but the Palestinians have already rejected it as heavily biased in favor of Israel. Washington has yet to commit to an exact timetable with respect to the political aspects of the plan. Kushner is the chief architect of the proposals and Greenblatt, a longtime Trump lawyer, has served as his right-hand man on the Middle East initiative. Upon his arrival in the White House more than two years ago, Trump proclaimed his ambition to secure a final accord ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. But the odds of his succeeding where every previous US president -- Republicans as well as Democrats -- have failed appear particularly low. Palestinians have boycotted the process since Trump recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel in December 2017. - Bahrain conference - The US is expected to roll out the economic aspects of the peace plan at a conference in Bahrain on June 25-26. Co-hosts US and Bahrain have billed it as "a pivotal opportunity... to share ideas, discuss strategies and galvanize support for potential economic investments and initiatives that could be made possible by a peace agreement." But Palestinian political leaders say they will boycott it and Palestinian business leaders said they won't go either, raising further questions about the plan's viability. "Any economic project without a political solution is selling an illusion," said Arafat Asfour, chairman of the Palestine Trade Center. Among those declining an invitation was Bashar al-Masri, a high-profile Palestinian businessman who worked with international partners and in cooperation with the Israelis to invest $1.4 billion in the new Palestinian town of Rawabi. Kushner, who will join up with Trump in London after his Middle East trip, has been evasive about the US plan, which has been shrouded in secrecy. While promising new ideas to revive a moribund peace process, he has refused to talk about a two-state solution, the formula that has long been at the heart of international efforts to achieve peace and also the official US position. Instead, he has looked to an alliance with the Saudis against Iran as a way to gain Arab support for his plan. Three days before Kushner's trip, Trump authorized $8.1 billion in arms sales to Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies, bypassing Congress. Arms sales to the kingdom were frozen after the assassination of Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi in October and in response to mounting concerns over the human toll of a Saudi-led armed campaign in Yemen. But the administration defended the sales as necessary "to deter Iranian aggression and build partner self-defense capacity." White House Senior Advisor Jared Kushner (C) -- President Donald Trump's son-in-law -- will head to the Middle East to push a peace plan for Israel and the Palestinians Japan's Naomi Osaka admitted she has "never been so nervous" after coming within just two points of a sensational first round Roland Garros exit on Tuesday. The world number one battled back from a set and a break down to defeat Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 0-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-1 to extend her winning streak at the Slams to 15 matches. However, Osaka, bidding to add the French Open to her US and Australian Open titles, was close to becoming just the second top seed to lose in the first round in Paris in the modern era after Angelique Kerber in 2017. World number 90 Schmiedlova, who hadn't won a match at the tournament since 2014, twice served for the tie in the 10th and 12th games of the second set. At one stage, she was just two points away from a famous victory. But Osaka, who had arrived in Paris still feeling the effects of a hand injury suffered in Rome, battled back to set-up a second round duel with former world number one and two-time major winner Victoria Azarenka. "I think this is the most nervous I have ever been my entire life during a match," said Osaka. "I think you could see that in the first set. I was literally not hitting any balls in the court. "For me, today was weird because usually the nerves go away, but it kind of stayed the entire match. Then I just felt like it was a fight of willpower." Osaka said she had only practiced on the cavernous Court Philippe Chatrier for 30 minutes since her arrival in the French capital. She was also totting up the reasons why she was so under-powered. "First time playing a Grand Slam as No. 1. I have won the last two, so I kind of want to win this one really bad. - 'Prove myself' - "Also I have never played on Chatrier before. This was my first time. And, yeah, I kind of feel like I'm having the thought of wanting to prove myself again, so..." Osaka was broken three times in the opening set, losing it in just 20 minutes. The 21-year-old hit 13 unforced errors while the Slovakian didn't need to hit a single winner such was the error-strewn show coming from the other side of the net. The Japanese star had not been 'bageled' since the Wimbledon second round in 2017. Osaka recovered her composure for a break and a 3-0 lead in the second set but a brief suspension for rain disrupted her composure and allowed the Slovakian to hit back to 3-3. Former top 30 player Schmiedlova served for the tie at 5-4 but Osaka dug deep to save herself. The errors kept coming and the 24-year-old Slovakian was handed a second chance to serve for victory. Still, she couldn't convert despite being just two points from victory and Osaka stayed alive, sweeping through the tie-breaker. That was the cue for Osaka to illustrate the gap of 89 places between her and the slender blonde in the world rankings. She broke three times in a quickfire 25-minute final set to extend her streak at the Slams to 15 successive wins. Osaka ended the match with 10 aces, 36 winners and 38 unforced errors with just four of those coming in the decider. "I was really close, so it hurts I lost so many chances," said Schmiedlova. "Maybe I felt like it was against the world number one. It was not easy in my head." Azarenka, a semi-finalist in 2013, reached the second round for the first time since 2015 with a 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) win over 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko. Azarenka stands at 1-1 in head to heads with Osaka. She won their first meeting at the 2016 Australian Open before Osaka gained revenge on clay in Rome last year. Battling back: Japan's Naomi Osaka on her way to victory over Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova Vice President Mike Pence on Tuesday waded into the growing debate in the United States about the hot-button issue of abortion, urging the Supreme Court to bar "selective" abortions based on sex, race or potential disability of the fetus. The comments by Pence, a devout Christian who signed anti-abortion bills while serving as governor of Indiana, coincide with moves by Republican-led legislatures in several states to restrict access to the procedure. Opponents of abortion are seeking to eventually challenge the 1973 US Supreme Court ruling in the case of Roe vs Wade, which made abortion legal nationwide. In the latest moves, the only abortion clinic in Missouri may be forced to close and the legislature in Louisiana inched closer to passing a bill that would ban abortion after six weeks of pregnancy. Early on Tuesday, the Supreme Court upheld part of an Indiana law signed during Pence's tenure as governor that requires the remains of aborted fetuses to be cremated or buried, but sidestepped a separate case on the "selective" abortions clause. A lower court had struck that segment of the law down, and the Supreme Court said it would not weigh in until other appellate courts do so. Pence's office welcomed the ruling on the disposal of remains of aborted fetuses and said it remained "hopeful that at a later date the Supreme Court will review one of numerous state laws across the US that bar abortion based on sex, race, or disability." "Countries across the globe prohibit selective abortion -- and the United States should do the same," said the statement from Pence's press secretary Alyssa Farah. The two Indiana cases were being closely watched as an indicator of how the top court -- which now has a conservative majority -- may eventually decide on the divisive issue, should it choose to accept a case. The southern state of Alabama passed a bill this month that amounts to a near-total ban on ending a pregnancy, even in cases of rape and incest. Performing an abortion would be a crime that could land doctors in prison for 10 to 99 years. Abortions would only be legal if the life of the mother is in danger or the fetus has a fatal condition. - 'Public health crisis' - Since taking office, President Donald Trump has appointed two conservative justices -- Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh -- and liberal members of the court are now outnumbered five to four. Conservative-leaning Chief Justice John Roberts is seen as the potential swing vote if the constitutionality of abortion eventually comes before the court. In Missouri, Planned Parenthood warned Tuesday that the only abortion clinic in the midwestern state risks being shut down on Friday if the state health department does not renew its license. "This is a real public health crisis," said Leana Wen, the president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, which provides abortions and reproductive health care. "Missouri would be the first state in the country to go dark -- without a health center that provides safe, legal abortion care," said Wen, who herself is a doctor. "More than a million women of reproductive age in Missouri will no longer have access to a health center in the state they live in that provides abortion care." In Louisiana, legislation is moving forward that would ban abortion once a fetal heartbeat has been detected, which can be as early as six weeks. Several other states have passed similar laws including Georgia. The state's Democratic governor has indicated that he may sign it if it reaches his desk. In another development, Netflix said it would reconsider its investment in Georgia should a controversial abortion law in the southern state, known as the Hollywood of the South, go into effect. "We have many women working on productions in Georgia, whose rights, along with millions of others, will be severely restricted by this law," Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos said in a statement to Variety. "Given the legislation has not yet been implemented, we'll continue to film there -- while also supporting partners and artists who choose not to," Sarandos said. "Should it ever come into effect, we'd rethink our entire investment in Georgia." Following adoption of the law in Georgia, where a number of blockbusters, including "Avengers: Infinity War" and "Black Panther," as well as TV series are shot, there have been mounting calls for Hollywood to snub the state. Such a move would lead to major economic losses for Georgia, which last year reported some 92,000 jobs and an economic impact of more than $9 billion from film and TV production. US Vice President Mike Pence urged the Supreme Court to take up the case of 'selective' abortions The only abortion clinic in Missouri -- a Planned Parenthood facility in St Louis -- is threatened with closure An abortion rights protester holds up a sign outside the US Supreme Court Netflix has threatened to cease producing in the state of Georgia should its controversial abortion law take effect Thousands of Sudanese workers began a national strike on Tuesday, leaving air and bus passengers stranded as protesters piled pressure on the military to hand power to a civilian administration. The leaders of an umbrella protest movement remain at loggerheads with army generals who ousted president Omar al-Bashir last month over whether a civilian or a soldier should head a new governing body. The body is expected to install a transitional civilian government, which in turn would prepare for the first post-Bashir elections after a three-year interim period. In a bid to step up pressure on the ruling military council, the Alliance for Freedom and Change protest movement called for a two-day general strike starting on Tuesday. Thousands of employees of government offices, banks, private sector firms and at the Red Sea hub of Port Sudan joined the strike, insisting that only civilian rule can lift Sudan out of its political crisis. "This strike is the first step. If our demands are not heard we will go for comprehensive civil disobedience," warned banker Yousef Mohamed, as he chanted slogans along with his colleagues outside his bank in Khartoum. "We tried a military government but it didn't work for us in Sudan." AFP correspondents who toured parts of the capital saw groups of employees participating in the strike and protesting at several squares. Traffic in Khartoum was normal but travellers in private vehicles whistled and clapped to express their solidarity with those participating in the strike. Hundreds of workers in Port Sudan - a vital economic hub -- also joined the strike. "We want civilian rule to get rid of the corruption in Port Sudan," said Osman Tahir, a worker at the dock. Hundreds of passengers were stranded at Khartoum airport as scores of employees at the facility went on strike, chanting "civilian rule, civilian rule," an AFP correspondent there said. - Passengers stranded - Many employees carried banners or wore badges that read "We are on strike". Sudanese airlines Badr, Tarco and Nova suspended flights on Tuesday. EgyptAir also cancelled its flights to Khartoum for the day, while flydubai said it was "monitoring" the situation in Sudan. Passengers were also stranded at Khartoum's main bus terminal as hundreds of employees observed the strike. Many carried banners reading: "Today, tomorrow no buses as we are on strike". "I have to travel to Gadaref to be with my family for Eid, but I'm not angry as I understand the reason for the strike," traveller Fatima Omar said as she waited with her children at the bus terminal. Protest leader Siddiq Farukh told AFP that the strike was a message to the world that Sudanese people "don't want the power to be with the military". Another prominent protester, Wajdi Saleh, told reporters late Monday that there was "still no breakthrough" in negotiations. "We hope that we reach an agreement with the military council and won't have to go on an indefinite strike," he said. Protest leaders had said medics, lawyers, prosecutors, employees in the electricity and water sectors, public transport, railways, telecommunication and civil aviation were set to take part in the strike. Ahead of the walkout a key member of the protest movement, the National Umma Party, said it opposed the plan as there had been no unanimous decision for a strike. Umma and its chief Sadiq al-Mahdi have for decades been the main opponents of Bashir's iron-fisted rule, and threw their weight behind the protest movement after nationwide demonstrations erupted in December. - 'Part of former regime' - Protester Hazar Mustafa said the generals could not be trusted. "We see the military council as part of the former regime. We don't see it upholding any rights and building a just state," she said. The army ousted Bashir in April after months of protests against his autocratic rule, including a sit-in by tens of thousands of protesters outside Khartoum's military headquarters. But the generals, backed by key regional powers, have resisted calls from protesters and Western governments to hand over power to civilians. Thousands of protesters remain camped outside army headquarters, demanding the generals step down. Before suspending talks last week, the two sides had agreed on several key issues, including the three-year transition and the creation of a 300-member parliament, with two thirds of lawmakers coming from the protesters' umbrella group. But negotiations stalled as protest leaders insisted a civilian must head the new sovereign council, with civilians making up the majority of its members -- proposals rejected by the military. Sudanese bank employees were among the thousands of strikers Sudanese protesters have remained camped outside the military headquarters in Khartoum pressing for the military to hand over to civilian rule The strike led to flight cancellations at Khartoum airport Climate activist Greta Thunberg called on citizens to "change everything" to avert climate crisis, at the start of a conference in Vienna Tuesday organised by former California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. "We young people are waking up and we promise, we won't let you get away with it anymore," 16-year-old Thunberg told delegates. She was speaking after green parties emerged as one of the big winners in the European parliamentary elections. Climate change was "the biggest crisis that humanity has ever faced," said Thunberg. "It is not something you can 'like' on Facebook." Technological developments in fields such as electric cars and solar energy should not leave people with the impression that they could "solve the crisis without making any efforts", she said. "Once we realise, we act, we change. Humans are very adaptable," she added. Thunberg has become a figurehead for young climate activists internationally, inspiring hundreds of thousands of other youths to strike from school in "Fridays For Future" protests. She was speaking at the Austrian World Summit, an initiative launched by Schwarzenegger, which brings together some 1,200 figures from the worlds of science, politics and business to discuss ways to tackle climate change. In a speech at the event, Schwarzenegger called on world leaders to "stop lying to the people about pollution and about the climate change" and to "invest in the green energy of the future". UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres regretted that "many of the countries that in Paris promised to do a number of things are not even catching up with their own promises". The 2015 Paris agreement, negotiated under the auspices of the UN, enjoins nations to cap global warming at "well below" two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit). But US President Donald Trump pulled out of the accord in 2017. "Climate disruption is upon us, and it is progressing faster than our efforts to address it," Guterres said. In Sunday's European parliament elections green parties managed double-digit scores in some of Europe's biggest countries, including 20 percent in Germany. Polling data indicates younger voters in particular turned towards environmentalist parties in order to put climate action more firmly on the agenda. 'We won't let you get away with it anymore,' Thunberg told those attending the Climate Action Austrian World Summit Actor, filmmaker, politician and activist Arnold Schwarzenegger, a former governor of California, organised the event Family and friends of the woman beaten to death and left in a Melbourne park have remembered the late 25-year-old as a beautiful and gentle person. Tributes in the form of flowers and cards have been left in Parkvilles Royal Park, where police believe Courtney Herron was brutally murdered some time on Friday night or Saturday morning. A heart-wrenching note from Ms Herrons mother willed her to find eternal peace. To our beloved Courky, forever in our hearts...Find eternal peace with Pappou - you will be forever safe with him. Love mum, Chris, Sian and Lulu. A heartbreaking message from Ms Herron's mother was seen on a card with a bouquet of flowers. Source: AAP School friends left a message and photos at Ms Herron's makeshift memorial. Source: AAP A card from her Auntie Georgia, Uncle Peter, Tom and Maria expressed their heartbreak over her being killed so young. To our gentle, beautiful niece Courtney. You have been taken from us too soon. May you find rest and peace. You will forever be in our hearts and prayers, A lengthy message printed out and glued to red cardboard along with some photos of Ms Herron from school said she would be remembered as a crazy kid. Dear Courtney, you will be remembered as a crazy kid with a beautiful personality. You always knew how to make everyone around you laugh and smile. You always found light in every situation A card from Ms Herron's family described her as a "gentle beautiful" person. Source: AAP Several bouquets of flowers were seen at the makeshift memorial come Tuesday. Source: AAP Ms Herron was honoured in a makeshift memorial in Royal Park. Source: Nine News You taught me resilience and helped me find strength. You taught me that if you dont laugh, you cry, and I still live by that. You touched so many hearts, and left a mark on mine. You wont be forgotten, a letter from from Sigrid, said. Another unsigned note said, You will not be forgotten. Rest in peace Courtney. With love. Several bouquets of flowers were laid at the scene, with one having a card with the words fly free. One bouquet had a card reading "fly free". Source: AAP Photo of a personal message on a bouquet of flowers left at the mural. Source: AAP A growing number of people left bunches of flowers at the park early this week. Source: AAP Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes orGoogle Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoos daily newsletter. Sign up here. Fighting academic failures Children from undereducated, low-income families face a greater risk of poor academic performance. But schools are capable of decreasing these risks. Experts from the Higher School of Economics have studied international experience in addressing these challenges. The results have presented in Journal of Modern Foreign Psychology. Above Barriers Many international studies have demonstrated that family context impacts a child's school progress, showing a correlation between parents' socio-economic status and children's achievements. Low levels of education, income and cultural interest in the family often have a negative impact on the progress of school-age children and as a result may hinder their social mobility. However, strict predetermination is not inevitable. Children may overcome their circumstances and study well, expanding their opportunities in life. It is important to support such students and create a favourable school environment for them. Having studied the experience of Russian schools that achieved high results despite students' family circumstances, as well as similar practices in Great Britain, France, Germany, Spain, Ireland, Portugal, and Belgium, Sergey Kosaretsky, Aleksandra Mikhailova and Evgeny Isaev suggest some support measures in their paper. IQ.HSE selected some most interesting ideas to support socially vulnerable students. Subsidies and Monitoring Additional funding and remedial education are the most obvious approaches that many countries use to address these challenges. Schools that teach a large number of kids from families experiencing economic hardship are granted special subsidies or increased funding. It is often up to the schools to decide which areas should be supported. For example, schools can hire additional staff or pay bonuses to teachers who work with underachieving students. These additional funds can also be used to create advisory centres and expert teams. Money can be invested in professional development for teachers or to design language programmes for migrants' children. One example of an programme that provides additional funding is the London Challenge in Great Britain. This programme started locally but later evolved to include other regions. It focuses on socially vulnerable demographic groups and aims to prevent underachievement by working with low performers. Schools with mixed-ability students receive additional funding, which stimulates teaching and organization of additional classes. Remedial education includes programmes to develop basic literacy and arithmetic skills. But it also includes a system to monitor 'those who may lag behind and fall out of the system in order to minimize the risks of such students dropping out,' the researchers explained. In addition to these general measures to promote academic performance, different countries have their own national approaches with different areas of focus. Portugal: Preventing Drop-out A 2012 programme adopted in Portugal that aims to combat 'early drop-out from schools' is completely personalized in that underachieving students receive individual curricula. Children who risk failing the public exam in 4th and 6th grades receive additional classes and trial exams in order to determine their levels. Classes may be formed depending on academic performance, which allows underachievers to receive more targeted support. Belgium: Success Tutors Another country-specific option involves special teachers of success. In Belgium, schools with a large number of socially vulnerable students employ staff members who identify children who are at risk of academic failure and help them. Such support in different subjects is, in fact, a form of free tutoring, the authors explain. Ireland: Fighting Inequality Starting in Preschool In Ireland, the Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools programme has been in place since 2005. It aims to begin equalizing opportunities for education as early as preschool. Kids are offered a year of free studies before they go on to elementary school. Another programme, Home School Community Liaison, helps to build a liaison between the school and the family. A programme representative in the school is relieved of routine teaching duties, which allows him or her to focus on working with families that come from lower socio-economic backgrounds. This representative is responsible for building relations between parents and the school in order to better integrate the students. France: Psychophysiology Aid Priority Education is a programme that aims to improve the performance of students in school who are in difficult situations. The programme offers help not only from teachers, but also from doctors and psychologists. This French initiative bears resemblance to the Russian approach. According to the researchers, Russian teaching practice tends to 'detect psychophysiological and psychological (motivational and cognitive) qualities among underachieving school students.' Teachers in French schools covered by the programme communicate with parents regularly and undertake projects together with the students. They work personally with struggling students in small groups (this is of vital importance for the most troubled schools in the Priority Education Plus programme). Germany: Socialization in Clubs A correlation has been established between extracurricular activities and school performance. Teenagers who take part in clubs and other activities after classes feel more confident and study better. For students who come from families experiencing economic hardship and for migrant children, this is also a way to help with social engagement. Germany's federal educational authority has allocated over 30 million annually since 2013 to supporting extracurricular activities in families that come from disadvantaged backgrounds. The 'educational package' proposed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs also supports students from poor and undereducated families who are given an opportunity to attend clubs and excursions. Since 2004, Germany has actively developed 'full day' schools that offer kids after-school activities in an open format where they can do their homework or play. Six Ideas for Russia Based on international experience, the researchers suggest the following: Supporting students and schools of different levels is essential. Financial support should be made a priority, including special-purpose subsidies, bonuses and grants in exchange for schools' obligation to equalize students' performance. Schools should be able to administer funds independently. Focus should be made, for example, on continuing education for teachers. A rich educational environment is important: school days should be filled with additional classes on school subjects and extracurricular activities. Pro-family action is needed and can include granting personal certificates that socially vulnerable students can use to receive additional education. It makes sense to develop 'resilient school' practices, i.e., those aimed at exceeding expectations and that help students from challenging family backgrounds achieve high results. Such schools intensify the educational environment and have the ability to work with mixed-ability classes. Strong students are given optional classes, preparation for competitions, and subject-specific classes, while weaker students are provided supplementary courses. The teaching staff have high expectations of their students, which serves as additional motivation. Additionally, children are involved in the school's non-academic life, which also promotes performance. Independence and leadership are essential in school administration. Children study better at schools where headmasters are focused on teaching methods and solving internal challenges rather than following external regulations. Personalized educational trajectories that consider students' demands and interests are helpful. ### This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Lake Ontario water levels could set a new record this week. The lake is at 248.85 feet and could reach or exceed the previous high of 248.95 feet within the next few days, according to the International Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River Board. The record high of 248.95 feet was set in 2017. That year, there was flooding along Lake Ontario. The floods caused shoreline erosion and property damage. President Donald Trump issued a major disaster declaration for the affected counties, including Cayuga. The board said the high water levels are due to above average precipitation in the Lake Ontario basin and "uncontrolled and record-high inflows" from Lake Erie. To counter the rising water levels, the board has increased outflows from Lake Ontario. As of Saturday, outflows were 300,2000 cubic feet per second up 106,000 cubic feet per second from this time in April. "The intent is to balance high water levels in the interests of all stakeholders, and to regulate Lake Ontario outflows to provide all possible relief to shoreline property owners and communities both upstream and downstream of the Moses-Saunders Power Dam," the board said in a statement. Members of the International Joint Commission, which oversees the board, visited Rochester Tuesday to meet with local officials about Lake Ontario flooding. The six-member commission consisting of U.S. and Canadian officials manages shared boundary waters between the two countries. Both countries have new members on the commission. Canada appointed three new commissioners earlier this month. The Senate confirmed President Donald Trump's nominees to fill the U.S. seats on the panel. The new commissioners include Jane Corwin, a former New York state assemblywoman from the Buffalo area. She is serving as U.S. section chair of the commission. U.S. Rep. John Katko met with the new commissioners Thursday and said they will be visiting Cayuga, Oswego and Wayne counties within the next few weeks. As the commission determines what it can do to prevent future flooding, state and local officials are responding to the high water levels. Gov. Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency for Cayuga and seven other counties along the lake. There is a lakeshore flood warning in effect for Monroe, Niagara and Orleans counties in western New York. Online producer Robert Harding can be reached at (315) 282-2220 or robert.harding@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @robertharding. 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. An Auburn police officer was slapped in the face and had their finger bitten which resulted in a pair of arrests on Monday afternoon. According to an Auburn Police Department press release, officers were sent to the area of Washington Street on an investigation at 2:44 p.m. During the investigation, at an Orchard Street residence, an officer tried to arrest an 18-year-old Auburn resident after allegedly being pushed in the chest. The 18-year-old, who was not identified, continued to resist arrest by kicking at the officer and biting the officer's right index finger. While placing the 18-year-old under arrest, Destiny Gould, 20, of Auburn, allegedly slapped the officer in the face to prevent the arrest. Both subjects were taken into custody. The officer went to Auburn Community Hospital where they were treated for a laceration and bruising and was later released. The 18-year-old faces a felony charge of second-degree assault and second-degree obstructing governmental administration, a misdemeanor. Gould faces a charge of second-degree obstructing governmental administration, a misdemeanor and second-degree harassment, a violation. Love 3 Funny 18 Wow 2 Sad 1 Angry 32 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. Regarding "Our view: Undetectable firearms pose a safety risk": "The state Assembly and Senate have both passed legislation that would outlaw manufacturing, selling, transporting or possessing 3D-printed or other undetectable firearms. Washington state has banned 3D guns that don't include any metal parts, and similar measures have been proposed in Maryland and Rhode Island." So much misinformation in the article. "Undetectable" weapons are already illegal under Federal law. Why duplicate it? "The United States Undetectable Firearms Act of 1988 (18 U.S.C. 922(p)) makes it illegal to manufacture, import, sell, ship, deliver, possess, transfer, or receive any firearm that is not as detectable by walk-through metal detection as a security exemplar containing 3.7 oz (105 g) of steel, or any firearm with major components that do not generate an accurate image before standard airport imaging technology." A gun made entirely of plastic is not going to function as 1: The barrel will not take the stress and maybe fire one time or possibly explode. 2: A plastic firing pin will may not have enough strength to fire the primer one time before breaking, and 3: PLASTIC is detectable by X-ray machines. Look at all the plastic in a notebook and in a woman's purse that shows up on an X-ray. As far as bump stocks go, one can rapid fire a semi-auto rifle at 900 rounds per minute with just a finger on the trigger. Google this to see the video. "AR-15 SBR Bumpfire (100 Rounds of a Solid Stream of Led) - YouTube." Should be the first hit. Go to 30 seconds in the video. Ninety-nine rounds in just over 6 seconds. P.S.: So glad I live in a FREE STATE where we can own any firearm we want, including NFA firearms. (I have two suppressors.) Geoffry Kufchak Loris, South Carolina Love 3 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Donald Trump administration last week stepped on the gas pedal in its race to get rid of protections against discrimination for transgender people that had been put in place under President Barack Obama. On Friday, as The New York Times reported, the Department of Health and Human services unveiled a new set of regulations that, if allowed to be put into effect, will eliminate the Obama-era safeguard that prevented health care providers from discriminating on the basis of gender identity. Under Obama, existing rules barring health care discrimination on the basis of sex were expanded to include transgender identity under the definition of sex. The new, Trump-proposed rule would narrow the definition to exclude gender identity, allowing doctors and nurses to refuse certain types of care to people who identify as transgender. The Trump rollback would also apply to health insurance companies, which would no longer be required to cover procedures for transgender patients. The Obama-era rule was adopted as part of the Affordable Care Act (better known as Obamacare) which included the provision prohibiting sex discrimination, broadly defining sex to include an individuals internal sense of gender, which may be male, female, neither, or a combination of male and female, and which may be different from an individuals sex assigned at birth. As part of the HHS rule revamp, a conscience rule has been fortified which allows health care providersincluding not only doctors but nurses, pharmacists, and non-medical staff members such as emergency room receptioniststo refuse to take part in abortion services even in cases where the life of the mother is directly threatened by a pregnancy, such as in a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. But under the Trump definition of conscience, health care personnel may also refuse care to transgender people, according to a BuzzFeed report on the new rules. And on Wednesday, the Trump administration proposed another new rule that would allow homeless shelters to simply turn away transgender homeless people, or to house them with people of their birth gender, rather than the gender with which they identify, or with other trans people. The rules would apply to any health care facility or homeless shelter that receives government funding. Trump administration officials claimed that the new rules would not lead to increased discrimination, because transgender Americans are protected by other existing laws. The new rule rollback proposed Friday does not take effect for at least 60 daysand likely even longer, since legal challenges to the rule are also likely to be filed in courts, possibly delaying implementation of the rollback even further. Photo By The White House / Wikimedia Commons Public Domain PHOENIX Health officials warn that vaccination rates are deteriorating across Arizona, risking public health as parents continue to opt out of immunizations. Immunization levels in the past year fell further below the necessary rate to guarantee community protection against the outbreak of vaccine-preventable diseases. The reason: Personal exemptions from vaccinations are on the rise, according to state data and a Cronkite News analysis. Populations throughout Arizona are most vulnerable in areas where personal exemptions are favored, experts say. If we got rid of the personal exemption, I have no doubt vaccination rates would go up pretty substantially and we would be at a much lower risk of having the kinds of outbreaks that were seeing, said Will Humble, executive director for the Arizona Public Health Association. Arizona Department of Health Services records and a Cronkite News data analysis shows: Kindergarten students with personal exemptions from all vaccines have doubled in four years. Public health officials consider kindergarten immunization levels a marker of community protection, and the drop in vaccination rates put the state at risk for an outbreak. Herd immunity, a cocoon around a community that protects people from formerly devastating diseases like measles, is faltering in more than half of Arizonas 15 counties. Personal exemptions rise in northern Arizona. In Yavapai County, only 83% of kindergarteners are vaccinated, while Yuma County has the highest rate of immunizations at 97.3%. Vaccination rates have dropped across schools statewide, with personal exemptions for kindergarteners rising to 5.9% from 4.5% since the 2015/16 school year. Across the U.S., outbreaks of measles have reached a record high more than 700 cases since the disease was eradicated two decades ago. Rockland County in New York imposed a quarantine, and in March declared a county-wide state of emergency, barring anyone who was unvaccinated from entering public places for 30 days or until receiving the MMR vaccination. Vaccine advocates arent sure why immunizations are dropping, but parents across the U.S. are increasingly opting out as public trust in institutions and experts erodes, fears about vaccine safety rise and state legislators create a sort of no-vaccine friendly zone. Arizona is one of 17 states allowing personal-belief exemptions from vaccines. Arizona requires students in school to be vaccinated and the health department collects and reports information for students in child-care centers, kindergarten and sixth grade. State law allows exceptions: religious exemptions for child care, preschool and Head Start programs, medical exemptions that require a document verifying the vaccine could harm the child, and personal belief exemptions, which require no reason be given. Medical exemptions have stagnated as personal exemptions have risen steadily. Dueling bills introduced in the Legislature this year have either tried to remove the personal exemption or tried to expand exemptions. Heather Wolcott and her husband, Jeff, have chosen not to vaccinate their two children because of safety concerns. She likens government officials statements of a public-health threat to a sky-is-falling message. Its like Russian roulette, you just dont know what youre getting. To me, thats way more threatening than my kids getting the measles, said Wolcott, who lives in the Ahwatukee Foothills section of Phoenix. Jacquelyn Phillips of Gilbert, whos also a parent, said community health matters. It absolutely baffles me that my peers dont vaccinate, she said. I worry what public health will look like in the coming years. For most health professionals, the solution is simple: get vaccinated. But the entanglement of family, community and choice has turned vaccinations into one of the most divisive some say dangerous public health issues this year. The tipping point A DHS report in April warned that higher level of personal exemptions could lead to a potential outbreak of measles and mumps after herd immunity dropped below the 95% threshold for kindergartners. Six states have confirmed measles outbreaks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most people contracting the disease were unvaccinated. Personal exemptions for kindergarteners are alarming, DHS officials said, jumping statewide from 1.8 percent in 2015-16 to 3.8 percent this year. Eugene Livar, bureau chief of epidemiology and disease control at DHS, said there is no one smoking gun that has been identified to explain the decline in vaccination rates. Public health officials do not have an answer. Wolcott said her children, 5- and 9-years-old, rarely get sick except for the occasional cold. Shes wary of conventional medicine and treats the sniffles with elderberry, zinc and lots of fluids. I think people who dont vaccinate look for healthier solutions. I think its part of that culture and part of that community, she said. Phillips, who has a son in sixth grade, said the personal exemption becomes a problem when unvaccinated children are enrolled in schools and put other children at risk. Every parent is going to parent differently, and thats totally fine, she said. But if your child is going to interact with other children, thats when you have to start taking that into consideration. Humble, a former DHS director, said vaccinations are a social contract for the community. There are certain members of the community, people with disabilities, people with medical conditions that cant get vaccinated or dont form a full antibody titer and are not fully protected, he said. And when we vaccinate all of us, we protect all of us. Vaccination plunge Herd immunity in Arizona, however, is faltering DHS data shows nine of Arizonas 15 counties fell below the necessary threshold this year. Pockets in the state, mostly in northern Arizona, harbor dangerously low vaccination levels. The most striking is Yavapai County, with an 83.3 percent immunization rate among kindergarteners, although vaccinations ticked up from the previous year. Leslie Horton, director of Yavapai County Community Health Services, said the countys low rates have been a challenge for years. Horton cites unfounded fears of autism as one of the most common reasons for not vaccinating, with those opposed to vaccinating their children relying on a coincidence in timing. According to the 2019 CDC immunization schedule, infants receive their first MMR dose at about 12 to 15 months old. The onset of autism diagnosis in toddlers is about 18 months, Horton said. We see MMR is probably the most commonly exempted vaccine, Horton said. Vaccines as a cause of autism have largely been been debunked in the medical community but the myth persists. Mohave County, in northwestern Arizona, also has seen exemption rates rise steadily. Personal exemptions cluster in schools such as that countys small Cottonwood Elementary School , where 85% of kindergarten students are not vaccinated for measles, mumps and rubella. In Maricopa County, the states most populous, personal exemptions in private and charter schools reached nearly 10%. You see a trend for parents who choose to send their kids to charter schools also choosing not to vaccinate their kids, Humble said. He sees another trend: The higher the family income, the more likely the children are not vaccinated. It sounds kind of counterintuitive because a lot of the problems we have in public health is a lack of access to care because of resources or transportation or other barriers low-income people face, Humble said. Dr. Nina Shapiro, director of pediatric otolaryngology at UCLA, theorizes that people with higher incomes treat health care is a commodity. The idea that vaccines are a topic of controversy, according to Shapiro, is a luxury. I think many people who are in these higher income communities and brackets dont even realize that its a detriment to themselves, to their families and to the public to make something that is really a public health decision into an individual decision, she said. Dr. Jack Wolfson, an Arizona cardiologist, has garnered national attention as a vaccine opponent who posts Facebook videos to followers. You have to get educated on the dangers of vaccines, why vaccines are totally unnecessary, Wolfson said in one video. Farra Swan, a doctor of naturopathy and midwife since 1984, is not alarmed by the drop in immunization rates, saying immunity does not come from vaccinations but from contracting the disease. Swan said she got the measles when she was 5 and remains immune at 72. What happens when youre getting vaccinated? Swan said. The vaccine wears off. Vaccines are much less potent today for safety reasons, and antitoxins can wane over time, requiring booster shots to serve as reinforcements for antibody concentrations, according to the CDC and Shapiro. Someone up-to-date on all vaccinations on the CDCs schedule has an assumed immunity, public health officials say, but immunity can wear off over time and require additional doses of vaccine. Statements like Swans puzzle public health officials, including Livar, the DHS epidemiologist. Its such a shame, because we know that these are preventable we know that we have tools available to us, Livar said. Trust, the government, and choice Whether people trust government and health institutions to decide whats best for them is one reason for the schism over vaccinations. Gov. Doug Ducey in February declared Arizona as pro-vaccination as a flurry of bills surrounding immunization consent and religious exemptions made their way through the Legislature. Ducey announced he would not sign any bills that chip away at state vaccine coverage rates. President Donald Trump, once skeptical about the CDC immunization schedule, has encouraged people to get their shots, saying vaccinations are important. But Horton, the health official in Yavapai County, said people often move there to get away from government control. If they dont trust the government, then they sometimes dont trust that immunizations are in the best interest of their children, Horton said. Mistrust of other institutions, like the mainstream news media, also account for the gap. Wolcott, the Ahwatukee mom who opposes vaccinations, said news outlets overblow the consequences of not vaccinating as if it were life threatening. I think thats completely bogus and I dont trust what theyre saying, Wolcott said. Wolcott and others who oppose vaccination also wonder whos profiting from vaccines, noting that pharmaceutical companies are a major lobby in Washington, D.C., and a source of political donations. Its just a big conglomerate of business. I dont think its necessarily the business of making people healthier and saving lives, she said. I just think its really shady. Swan, the naturopath, whos already wary of complex ingredient lists, said the push to vaccinate is a manifestation of the power that drug companies exert. Phillips, the Gilbert mom who says vaccinations are a community responsibility, said opponents are in denial. Because of vaccines, she said, her Gen X generation has not experienced the devastating effects of preventable diseases not only measles and mumps, but hepatitis B, tetanus and even polio. Only a resurgence will remind parents of the danger, Phillips said. We dont know what that looks like, so we cant be afraid of it, she said. But its that spiral of noncompliance thats bringing this outbreak. However, parents worried about safety argue they are justified in questioning vaccines. Trust in vaccinations was rattled in the late 1990s when a mercury-containing preservative in vaccines, thimerosal, exceeded a recommended limit set by the Environmental Protection Agency, but not the Food and Drug Administration. In 2001, thimerosal was removed from all vaccines except influenza. Wolcott not only worries about other metals that are found in vaccines, including aluminum, but the fact that vaccines are marketed as a one-size-fits-all solution. The CDC and the FDA stress the rigorous safety testing vaccines go through before approval and medical exemptions are available to children who may have an adverse reaction to vaccines. Laws of the land Nationwide, lawmakers have proposed more than 100 vaccination bills across 30 states. More than half of the proposals advocate for religious exemptions or a parents informed consent before administering a vaccine. Sen. Paul Boyer is among Arizona lawmakers who proposed a bill that would inform patients of all the risks and benefits of vaccines as well as a full ingredient list. He says he trusts parents to make decisions that are best for their children. I really think that parents love and care for their children. They should know whats going into their childrens bodies, said Boyer, a Republican representing Glendale and north Phoenix. He believes there are limitations and benefits to all vaccines, and that parents deserve to be informed. As a father-to-be, he said, the controversy is important to him, and hes navigating whether vaccinations are the right way to go. On the other side of the issue, Rep. Alma Hernandez aims to remove the states personal exemptions, which she considers a threat to the states herd immunity. She doesnt see the need for any exemption other than medical. Hernandez, a Democrat representing Tucson, advises parents to not confuse their passions for facts. Every parent has a right to make decisions for their child, but its not their right to put other people at risk and other parents children at risk, Hernandez said. These and two other bills regarding vaccines appear to be dead for this session. Love of family and vaccines future Health officials are grappling for a way to slow the drop in vaccination rates in the face of parents belief that they are making the best decision for their children. Some people really have a natural approach to raising their children and dont want anything injected into their children thats not natural or chosen by them, Horton said. The passion over vaccinations pro and con proliferates on social media, particularly on Facebook. The only common ground, parents and public health experts say, is love for their children. Every decision you make as a parent matters, Wolcott said. Dont shame me for what Ive done, because Im doing it with the best interests of my kids. Ive done a heck of a lot of research on it. Phillips is just as certain. It just boggles my mind that someone would go out of their way because of a belief they have, and put so many others in danger, she said. Im counting on everybody else to make the same choice that I did to protect the people that cant protect themselves. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 If youve lost someone to war or conflict, every day is a kind of Memorial Day. For the rest of us, once a year we are called upon to actively honor the sacrifice of our uniformed men and women whove died in service to our nation. People have a tendency to forget the purpose of Memorial Day and make it a day for games, races and revelry, instead of a day of memory and tears. No, this is not a recent tweet or a pithy social media caption. It was uttered by a veteran in 1913, who felt the meaningfulness of Memorial Day was slipping through the American conscience. While the nuances of Memorial Day are debated in the historical community, the most important takeaway is that its origins are in the Civil War. This is of particular note because every American lost someone in that bloody conflict. An estimated 752,000 were killed 2.4% of the population in 1860. Comparatively, if 2.4% were killed in our wars with Iraq and Afghanistan right now, those killed in action would total 7.8 million. That is nearly the equivalent of the combined population of Los Angeles, Chicago and Dallas or the entirety of Washington state. From a different angle, thats more Americans than died in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam Afghanistan and Iraq combined. So when Memorial Day, or Decoration Day in its infancy, was established, every single American was memorializing or remembering someone killed at war. The burden was shared and the cost of war was well understood by the entire nation. In a different way, the same might be said about nearly every conflict until 1973, when the draft was abolished. Arguably, the civilian-military divide has only grown wider since then, with less than 1% of our population serving in Iraq or Afghanistan. Simply put, there are entire towns across America whose families have not sent a single son or daughter to our nations longest war. To that point, in 2001, a Gallup poll established that only 28% of Americans knew the actual meaning and purpose of Memorial Day. A vast majority of the post-9/11 veteran population believes that the civilian public does not understand their or their families problems, a belief shared by the majority of the general population. Moreover, half of Americans say the recent wars have made little difference in their lives. In an effort to combat this nonchalance and societal malaise, Congress established a National Moment of Remembrance to be observed every Memorial Day at 3 p.m. The time is intentional, predicated on the belief it is when most Americans are the busiest, bustling about and enjoying their day. The purpose: to remember and renew the legacy of Memorial Day with greater strides made to demonstrate appreciation of those loyal people of the United States whose values, represented by their sacrifices, are critical to the future of the United States. Great intention, poor execution. We need fewer moments of silence and more moments of talking about service and sacrifice to our younger generations. It is not in the multitude of silence that change occurs, it is in moments when thousands of men and women whove borne the battle raise their voices in memory of those who have gone before. If we are to truly honor those who gave their last full of measure of devotion, we must be active, not passive, in our strides to impress those values upon the broad public. We are most at risk when we forget where we come from, where weve been, and who was there. As the 75th anniversary of D-Day approaches, this Memorial Day feels particularly poignant. The last vestiges of the Greatest Generation are upon us, as the Korean and Vietnam War veterans enter their twilight. Too soon, the burden of remembering will be passed along to those who did not experience such things first hand. The post-9/11 veteran generation must recognize its promise to uphold the honor and dignity of their sacrifice, while sharing our own. We must volunteer again, this time to speak at a local elementary, middle, or high school our presence a tangible reminder that freedom is only one generation away from extinction. Schools, universities and employers must open their doors and their minds. Not as a handout, but as an acknowledgment that every American is beholden to the future of our nation and the inculcation of her values. Even in a time when our differences feel vast and insurmountable, we can and must rally around this cause. There are no shortages of threats to life and liberty. There might yet come again a time when the entirety of the nation finds itself mourning and remembering the loss of significant American life. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 By The Los Angeles Times Editorial Board: Gilead Sciences, a California biopharmaceutical company, scored a major breakthrough in 2013 when the Food and Drug Administration approved Sovaldi, a pill that could cure hepatitis C when combined with another antiviral medication. And then Gilead delivered another breakthrough, albeit not a good one: It priced Sovaldi at $1,000 per pill, or $84,000 to $168,000 per course of treatment. The pricing stunned patients, insurers and state governments, which were suddenly exposed to billions of dollars in potential prescription costs. But as it turns out, Sovaldi was just a milepost on the way to the six- and seven-figure prices that a new generation of specialty drugs are expected to command. These gene therapies seek to cure conditions linked to genetic abnormalities or alter cells to build up the bodys defenses. According to the pharmaceutical industry, close to 300 such treatments are in development, with the largest number of them focused on fighting cancer. One of the first was Spark Therapeutics Luxturna, which the FDA approved in 2017. Luxturna, which can reverse blindness caused by a specific inherited condition, is a one-time treatment that costs $425,000 per eye. Next up is likely to be Novartis Zolgensma, a fix for the defective genes behind spinal muscular atrophy that the FDA could approve within weeks. No price has been set, but Novartis has said it is considering $1.5 million to $5 million for the treatment. Against this backdrop, the Trump administration and Congress have taken some first steps to address the problem of skyrocketing prescription drug costs. As welcome as all of these actions are, though, none of them would make an iota of difference in the price of Luxturna, Zolgensma or any other blockbuster drug with a blockbuster price tag. Thats because they aim at easier targets, not daring to shorten the temporary patent monopoly that pharmaceutical companies are awarded over newly approved drugs, nor to tamper with the freedom those companies have to price their products even while they are shielded from competition. Instead, the Trump administration has focused primarily on price transparency. This month, the Department of Health and Human Services finalized a rule requiring advertisements for many of the drugs covered by Medicare and Medicaid to disclose the medications list price. The idea is to stop patients from asking their doctors to prescribe drugs they dont realize are prohibitively expensive, or costlier than equally effective alternatives. Thats great unless the drug in question happens to be the only drug that treats your condition. Market forces dont function well in a field populated by monopoly suppliers, huge information gaps between providers and consumers, and life-or-death stakes. The House, meanwhile, passed a healthcare bill that includes three prescription drug proposals with bipartisan backing. The three proposals previously introduced as HR 1499, HR 965 and HR 938 all would remove barriers to the introduction of generic drugs, which should help increase competition. But the competition they promote wont arrive until after a drugmakers patents have expired, typically 12 or more years after a drug has been approved for sale. Senate Democrats also are backing a proposal by Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) to cap the prescription drug costs faced by elderly Americans enrolled in Medicare Part D. That bill, which has some supporters in the pharmaceutical industry, wouldnt cut into drug company revenues it would simply shift drug costs from seniors with chronic or expensive conditions to taxpayers. The ugly reality is that in many cases, the makers of medically necessary drugs can set prices as high as they wish. Breakthrough drugs, by definition, have no alternatives a monopoly thats then protected by federal patents. The only risk the manufacturers face is that insurers wont cover the product or will discourage people from using it, which may not be a viable option for insurers if the drugs are truly effective. Drugmakers, meanwhile, argue that they need to make enough profit off of successful new drugs to pay for all the research, false starts and failed trials that preceded them. Otherwise, they say, no one would make the risky investment in drug development. Theres some truth to that argument, but it also ignores the substantial investments that taxpayers make in the research that lights the way to new drug discoveries and the enormous profits racked up by some drugmakers. If Congress really wants to rein in the price of new branded drugs, it would need to take some pricing control away from the pharmaceutical industry. The most popular proposal would be to let Medicare negotiate drug prices for the medications it covers, using the programs enormous buying power to extract even larger discounts than the program now commands through statute. To be an effective negotiator, however, Medicare would have to be willing to drop coverage of some costly drugs, which would only expose the program to accusations of rationing. So while that approach is worth considering, it is fraught with risk. The Trump administration has put forward an alternative requiring drugmakers to sell their products to Medicare at the same price they do to European health insurance programs, which negotiate much lower prices than Medicare typically pays. The move could cut Medicares costs, but it would probably raise drug prices in Europe as well, blunting its effect here. A third idea, advanced by John Rother of the National Coalition on Health Care, would be to have an independent body set prices for new drugs based on their effectiveness and some measure of affordability. Thats similar to what the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review does for a variety of healthcare products and services. The entire healthcare industry is trying to figure out how to base prices on the value of the care delivered, and Rothers idea rides that wave. But then, whats the value of a treatment that cures a chronic disease? Surely it is more complicated than merely computing the cost of the care the patient will no longer need. How do you measure the value of a cure for blindness or a drug that eliminates years of pain and disability? If the new generation of breakthrough drugs are worth $1 million or more by those measures, then the issue wont be how to rein in the drugs prices. It will be how to afford them. Love 0 Funny 0 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. Have Sheriff Offices in North Carolina, possibly even Beaufort County's Sheriff Office, become too political in the discharging of their sworn constitutional duties? No, the sheriff is a constitutional officer. Yes, the Sheriff Office, on strong occasion, often reverts back to political patronage in the dispensation of their sworn constitutional duties. Co-admission partnerships between community colleges and University of North Carolina schools are multiplying.On April 29, Elizabeth City State University signed four transfer agreements with Edgecombe Community College, ensuring community college students a clear path to specific ECSU degree programs. ECSU, which offers tuition of $500 per semester for state residents, will now "co-admit" ECC students who plan to study criminal justice, business administration, and early childhood education. The co-admission agreement guarantees that ECC students who graduate with an associate's degree can complete their bachelor's degree at ECSU.said Edgecombe President Gregory McLeod.said ECSU Chancellor Karrie Dixon.The merger follows a trend of partnerships between UNC schools and campuses within the North Carolina Community College System.About 49% of all U.S. college students begin school at a community college, a new study from the national Jack Kent Cooke Foundation shows. But just 9% of students who transfer from community colleges enroll at competitive, private colleges.Many UNC schools offer high quality, low cost education. They're solid pathways for many students who might be priced out of attending such universities straight out of high school - and North Carolina legislators and UNC administrators have long discussed the importance of easing transfer for those at community colleges.North Carolina has a statewide "articulation agreement" that sets parameters for UNC's admittance of community college students. The UNC Board of Governors approved the agreement, but it's up to each school in the UNC system to develop its own system for transfers.Roughly 735,000 students are enrolled across the state's 58 community college campuses. That's about one of nine North Carolina residents over the age of 18. Multiple UNC campuses, including UNC Chapel Hill - the system's flagship campus - are working to make community college transfers easier for students.UNC Chapel Hill, which accepts just 27% of applicants, in January announced expansion of its Carolina Student Transfer Excellence Program, known as C-STEP . C-STEP guarantees students admission to UNC if they earn an associate degree from a qualifying community college. Students who transfer are required to maintain at least a 3.2 grade point average at a community college.UNC Chapel Hill partners with 13 community colleges and receives roughly 44 percent of its transfer students through C-STEP. Those students have a graduation rate of almost 86 percent, the university says.N.C. State University, considered the other flagship campus in the system along with UNC Chapel Hill, has a Community College Collaboration agreement with eight community colleges. UNC Greensboro in 2018 announced a co-admission agreement with Rockingham County Community College, ensuring admission for transfer students in almost 60 majors. In 2017, the North Carolina legislature passed House Bill 527 (now State Law 2017-196 ) to foster open inquiry in the state's public colleges and universities. One of the provisions ordered the University of North Carolina system Board of Governors to produce an annual report on two categories of intellectual freedom: free speech and institutional neutrality.The law states that colleges should aspire towhere schools do not take a stance on a political issue, so that students and staff don't feel pressured to share the views of the political majority on campus.However, during the political science commencement ceremony at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, I saw institutional neutrality fail. The last official event graduating students would attend with Chapel Hill was suffused with politics rather than reflections on knowledge and truth.This year, the political science department at UNC-Chapel Hill chose Gina Collias , a conservative-turned-liberal North Carolina politician running for Congress in the 10th District, to give the commencement speech-which she used as a platform to campaign for Congress and praise liberal students.Collias began her speech by correcting an error in the commencement program, clarifying that she was no longer a Republican. During her speech, Collias spoke about her time at UNC-Chapel Hill, but she also brought up abortion. With states like Alabama recently passing abortion restrictions and other states like Vermont protecting their citizens' right to abortion, mentioning abortion positively was a way for Collias to flush out the audience's partisan leanings.When she received a positive reaction from the crowd, Collias then told a story about correcting her white privilege and urged members of the audience to do the same. Collias spoke about being at an African American church when she was young and didn't know who Martin Luther King Jr. was. She said the congregation was shocked and that sheShe cited where she grew up and blamed white privilege for her ignorance to highlight how easy it is for white people to be unaware of the issues of others.That sentiment about white privilege has been shared by the university in its Racial Equity Resources and has been used to justify the Silent Sam protests and its eventual toppling . Later in her speech, Collias talked about her political efforts to inspire change in her community by spearheading an effort to build a playground in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, which she noted was scoffed at by local Republicans.Meanwhile, UNC-Chapel Hill political science leaders and faculty sat behind her, apparently unfazed by Collias' stump speech.By the end of her speech, Collias tried to broaden her horizon. She encouraged students to make a difference in their community and to be proud of their Carolina education. However, after a speech covering abortion, white privilege, and her political aspirations, students who didn't share her ideology may have felt that Collias would denigrate the differences they would make in their community. As a political figure and Carolina alumnus, Collias could have used this opportunity to congratulate and inspire students regardless of ideology, but she chose differently.When asked if the commencement ceremony was recorded, UNC-Chapel Hill political science department staff said it was not recorded due to staffing and time constraints.By inviting Gina Collias to speak at the political science commencement, UNC-Chapel Hill confirmed, once again, that they will push a progressive political line at non-political events. Pushing that political line at a commencement ceremony defies the spirit of the law to uphold institutional neutrality and puts politics above the university's academic mission.Nor is Collias an outlier: Left-of-center speakers at UNC commencement speeches are a very common occurrence. In 2016, UNC-Chapel Hill hosted notable progressive women's rights activist Anne-Marie Slaughter. That same year, North Carolina universities hosted more well-known progressives as commencement speakers to include Melissa Harris-Perry at Winston-Salem State University, Bakari Sellers at Elizabeth City State University, Cory Booker at North Carolina Central University, and Anthony Foxx at North Carolina A&T University. In 2017, UNC-Chapel Hill hosted CNN anchor Brooke Baldwin and this year, in addition to Gina Collias, UNC system schools hosted more progressive speakers like renowned social justice advocate Rev. Dr. William Barber at North Carolina Central University.Institutional neutrality on college campuses is important because college is a place where students go to explore the truth, think for themselves, and learn to be contributing members of society-and this cannot be accomplished when students are encouraged to submit to progressive political thought. By allowing politics to rule on campus, UNC-Chapel Hill undermines its supposed commitment to free thought and scholarship. If Chapel Hill wants to regain the reputation it has lost through academic scandal and controversy and set an example for the rest of the UNC system schools, it should stop lecturing its students, with parents and family in attendance, about their political views.As a graduating student, I felt neither inspired nor proud to be a political science student. Instead, I was reminded that individuality and freedom of thought are of secondary concern on Chapel Hill's campus and in political science.By practicing politics on college campuses, institutions are doing a disservice to their students. In adopting progressive political leanings, universities are stamping out the diversity of ideas which are part of what makes college campuses important centers of learning. Politicization will continue to tarnish the reputation of colleges and distort the learning process unless diversity of thought and fruitful discussion are returned to college campuses.In the future, I hope UNC-Chapel Hill will exercise better judgment when choosing commencement speakers. Students deserve speakers who focus more on the accomplishments of graduates and the meaning of a college education, rather than their personal political views. It was in immaculate condition, so we couldnt really tell where it had been for 80 years, Wells said. Theyre usually in pretty terrible condition when we find something like that. As near as Wells can tell, the letters journey most likely went awry shortly after it was sent, via a canvas bag used to transport mail in and out of small towns where the trains didnt stop. Postal workers at the time would sort the mail from a train car, putting packages and envelopes in a bag that would be tossed onto the platform as the locomotive sped by. Another bag, Wells said, would be hanging on a hook that the passing train would automatically snag, and the mail worker would retrieve the new bag and continue sorting. It wouldnt be terribly hard to imagine that a letter might have gotten stuck in one of those bags, Wells said. Somewhere along the line is where probably they would have emptied the bag out and everything would have come out of that bag except the letter. And that was probably the last time that bag was used. However, Kirkman was wary of the perception that summer school can carry for older students. Its not the coolest thing to say you get to come to school during the summer, he said. We want it to be fun. We dont want it to be a punishment. The program would run for three weeks in June on four-hour days, capped in the morning and afternoon with gym time or other more relaxed activities. Balancing academic rigor, which research has shown to be essential for summer programs to be successful, alongside play-based activities can be challenging for summer programs. Upham endorsed Riversides model. This is a very tight, focused approach, he said. Neither the elementary nor middle school program will have busing. Student busing in Montana is paid for by an automatic levy on local taxpayers, but it doesnt include summer transportation. Several legislative proposals to include summer busing have failed. Michelle Erickson-Jones farms in Broadview, Mont., and has spoken about her mental health struggles. She was diagnosed with postpartum depression after the birth of her second son and more recently has been struggling with anxiety. The low prices and the late spring havent helped. It just compounds, she said. Its not that other occupations dont have stresses; its that farming and ranching can become so much a part of a persons identity that the stresses dont end when work is done for the day. I myself have punched the clock, Derek Schultz said. If youre working at a factory, when the bell rings, thats it. Youre done. You dont worry about that place until youre back there. On the farm, that to-do list sticks with you, he says. Even so, stepping away from the farm can be almost overwhelming even with a wife who works in the mental health field issuing regular reminders about the importance of doing so, Derek Schultz says. It is very difficult for farmers to detach, he said. Even the 10 minutes a day thing. Its just hard to get that detached. WASHINGTON For sheer hypocrisy, it's hard to match the European nations that are refusing responsibility for dozens of their nationals who became jihadist "foreign fighters" over the past five years and are now warehoused in makeshift prisons in northeast Syria. U.S. officials say that about 2,000 foreign fighters from more than 50 nations are among the roughly 10,000 captured Islamic State fighters held in several dozen ramshackle prisons in Syria. The detention facilities are run by the Syrian Democratic Forces, the Kurdish militia that partnered with a U.S.-led coalition to defeat Islamic State. The other 8,000 captives are Syrian and Iraqi fighters. The Pentagon and State Department have implored European nations to repatriate their nationals for trial and imprisonment, or at least pay the SDF to hold them temporarily. But so far, most European nations have refused. The SDF warns that it can't imprison them indefinitely and doesn't have laws that would allow formal prosecution in the Kurdish-controlled zone. "If these prisoners are not going to be taken, what is the endgame?" complained one frustrated Pentagon official in an interview: "What comes next? People haven't thought about it." North Dakota will see additional funding for a program that prevents the elderly and disabled from being admitted into institutions. The state Department of Human Services said additional funding for the Money Follows the Person program is a result of federal legislation that was recently passed called the Medicaid Extenders Act of 2019. The bill altered several Medicaid programs and funding mechanisms. The additional money will sustain the program through the end of the year, with the intention of continuing to fund the program through 2021 based on available funding, according to a news release. North Dakota's grant funding for the program ended Dec. 31. Under the program, eligible participants work with a "transition coordinator" to help them transition from an institution, which include nursing homes and the Life Skills and Transition Center in Grafton. They also receive up to $3,000 in one-time moving costs, 24-hour backup nursing call services, rental assistance, among other forms of assistance. Transitions through the Money Follows the Person program began in North Dakota in 2008, and 455 people since then have transitioned to community settings. (Reach Blair Emerson at 701-250-8251 or Blair.Emerson@bismarcktribune.com) 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. North Dakota lawmakers will take up 46 studies in their interim before the 2021 legislative session, including one on the impacts of marijuana legalization amid potentially competing ballot measures. Lawmakers of Legislative Management, a powerful interim panel, met Tuesday to review 15 required studies and select from 50 optional ones in the first legislative meeting since the 2019 session adjourned April 26. House Majority Leader Chet Pollert, R-Carrington, who leads the panel, said there could be between 24 and 26 interim committees for 2019-20. Those committees, with about 14 members each, will be structured in June. They will meet about five times throughout the following 15 months to provide recommendations for potential legislation in 2021. Among the required studies include land access issues, public input on uses of Legacy Fund earnings, further review of voter-approved ethics initiatives and a sweeping corrections study. Studies approved Tuesday include probes of accessibility of the state Capitol grounds, uniform reporting of classroom violence related to children's behavioral health and food distribution to areas affected by rural grocery store closures. Legislators also called for a second-opinion revenue forecast. Lawmakers rejected studies to look at film incentives, pensions for volunteer firefighters and steps to eradicate HIV/AIDS in North Dakota, among others. Some studies were rejected because there was little interest in the topics, legislators deemed some issues as local or lawmakers wanted to give legislation more time to play out. Tuesday's meeting saw some replacement of language in four studies, including one for the potential impacts of marijuana legalization from a ballot initiative. The panel wrestled with the originally hefty probe, ultimately approving a shorter, broad directive that "the study must consider the potential benefits and detriments of legalizing recreational marijuana." "But if you're going to look at it, I think you have to look at it fairly from both sides and let both sides present from wherever it is and go from there," said Rep. Bill Devlin, R-Finley. Rep. Karla Rose Hanson, D-Fargo, brought an earlier, unsuccessful motion to replace the study's language with fewer, specific areas to probe. "I think of zoning. I think of tax revenue. We have a human services role and we have law enforcement and the criminal justice system," Hanson said. "And then, of course, we already have the medical marijuana program." Pollert said marijuana legalization isn't "a front burner issue" for him. "It's just one of the issues out of the many that we have to deal with," Pollert said. "Just one of the many." At least two groups have indicated their intentions to bring ballot initiatives for marijuana legalization in 2020. John Bailey, of Courtenay, who leads the group proposing a constitutional amendment for marijuana legalization, said his group will re-submit their petition in mid-June to North Dakota Secretary of State Al Jaeger after rescinding it for unspecified language changes and attorney consultation. A separate group, Legalize ND, is proposing a statutory initiative after a similar effort failed in 2018. Reach Jack Dura at 701-250-8225 or jack.dura@bismarcktribune.com. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 2 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. Ardyce L. Miller, 95, passed away May 24, 2019, at Sanford Medical Center, in Bismarck. A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, May 30, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck. Ardyce was born on Oct. 21, 1923, in Story City, Iowa, the daughter of Leonard A. and Alma (Kalseim) Peterson. She was raised and attended schools in Story City then moved to Radcliffe, Iowa, graduating from Radcliffe High School in 1941. Ardyce moved with her family to Des Moines, Iowa, where she attended Drake University graduating in May of 1948. She received her degree in Art History. While working in Des Moines, Ardyce met Robert L. Bob Miller. They were married on Jan. 28, 1950. Bob and Ardyce moved to Bismarck in February of 1950 during a snowstorm. Bob took a position with Provident Life Insurance Company and Ardyce took an art teaching job at Will-Moore Grade School. Ardyce continued her love of teaching art history at Bismarck Junior College, retiring in 1987. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church for 69 years. She was involved in many community organizations including a charter member of the Bismarck Art Association (now BAGA) PEO, Investment Club and Ft. Nightly. She enjoyed many different social bridge groups through the years. Being the art teacher she was, she facilitated TOYLAND in 1958. TOYLAND is a long time Bismarck tradition with nearly every home on Sioux Avenue displaying a toy themed decoration during the Christmas holiday season. Many of the original decorations dating back to the 1950s are still placed in front of the homes. Ardyce chose the toy dolls Raggedy Ann and Andy as her display. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Ann and Jeff Kempf, Bismarck, Jean and David Tandy, Georgetown, Texas.; and grandchildren, Chris (Heather), Kathryn (Monte), Benjamin, Jonathan and Matthew. She is also survived by a sister, Beverly Green; and many nieces and nephews. She had six great-grandchildren, with Jane Amalea Kempf born one hour after she passed on May 24. Ardyce is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Bob (Jan. 3, 2003); her parents; and sister, Phyllis Herter. Memorial may be given to Trinity Lutheran Trust Fund, BSC Foundation or a charity of your choice. Go to www.parkwayfuneral.com to share memories of Ardyce and sign the online guest book. (Eastgate/Parkway Funeral Services, Bismarck) In my previous Letter from Rome, I asked whether populists have the capacity to govern, given the failings of the Italian coalition made up of left-wing and right-wing populists and their apparent disdain for ideology. In the wake of the recent elections for the European Parliament, the corollary question is whether non-populists can actually win elections. Its a bit of a trick question, since elections are popular by nature, even if they are not always simply majoritarian. Intellectuals who blame the people for not electing their betters would seem to be permanent losers, however. How else to explain statements such as this one from a retired Italian ambassador quoted in the New York Times: Leaders are able to or try to bypass institutions and the traditional systems of checks and balances by going directly to the people. And that can lead to a phase where you actually do away with democracy. Of course, the people can elect a demogague who threatens individual liberties and minority rights; it has happened before and is likely to happen again. This is precisely the reason why liberal democracy rather than democracy itself must be defended. The problem is the left has rejected liberalism for progressivism, which is impatient with the more retrograde desires of the people as well as the checks and balances of modern constitutional government. If it is unwilling to side with liberal democracy, the left has nowhere to go but further down the rabbit hole of multiculturalism and identity group politics guided by a techocratic elite. The late Irving Kristol had some wise and prescient things to say about populism and intellectuals. In a 1972 Public Interest piece, he looked at why intellectuals consistently misjudged the peoples desire for lower taxes and economic prosperity. In a 1985 Wall Street Journal op-ed, he defended the new populism (as opposed to that which the Framers of the US Constitution feared) against the depredations of the elites. The right-wing populists of Hungary (whom I wrote about here), Italy and Poland (where I currently am) may not be defenders of classical liberalism but at least they seem to understand basic electoral politics. More on this in my June letter next week, which you will be able to find on Actons Religion and Liberty Transatlantic. (Photo credit: Wikicommons By Paasikivi) Forget Ronald Reagan and John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon and Bill Clinton as well. And do the same regarding Harry Truman and Dwight Eisenhower. The most consequential American president since the end of World War II was Lyndon Baines Johnson. The man who possessed a unique combination of savvy, lack of character and progressive faith created the Great Society and helped to shape the modern-day United States. Whether you like him or not, we all live under the shadow cast by one of the most hated and misunderstood presidents of America. We would have known little about Johnson had a young Robert Caro not developed a special interest for the former president after visiting him on his ranch in Texas. The result of Caros curiosity was a masterful piece about American history and this unique character that started his life as a schools teacher and climbed all the way up to the White House. Caros The Years of Lyndon Johnson shows a man who understood, from an early age, the meaning and the ways to power. The tallest of all George Washingtons successors and extremely ungainly, Johnsons physical characteristics seemed to reflect the psyche of an outcast who never felt comfortable doing anything but politics. While we see someone who learned how to master machine politics, we also see the outlines of a profoundly seductive and often funny anti-hero. In 10 years, from a powerful Democratic majority leader in the Senate where he worked to kill civil rights laws Johnson became president after JFKs death, was re-elected in a landslide and was destroyed by the unpopularity of the Vietnam War. Along the way, Johnson backed the same civil rights he had fought fiercely against earlier; broke the power of the then influential Southern senators led by his erstwhile mentor, Sen. Richard Uncle Dick Russell of Georgia, and imploded the New Deal coalition that had ruled America since 1932. But much more than that, he created a monster launched 55 years ago that expanded government power over private life and property and condemned millions to poverty artificially created by the federal bureaucracys slowly grinding gears the Great Society. Data on the achievements of Johnsons so-called War on Poverty are merciless. Since Washington decided that its priority should be eradicating poverty, generations of Americans were pushed towards welfare dependency, and for minority groups, the disaster was even greater. Economists like Thomas Sowell and Walter Williams have shown the harmful effects of the expansion of the welfare state on black communities and even more critical black families pushed to the economic stagnation that they have been suffering since the late 1960s when the government decided that time to help them had arrived. While the overall out-of-wedlock birth rate skyrocketed from 8 percent in the mid-1960s to more than 40 percent today, it has gone from 25 percent to 73 percent among blacks. The War on Poverty and the Vietnam War have more in common than you might imagine. Both were fought based on the same principles of a bureaucratic administration filled by radical ideas of social engineering rooted in the Progressive Era. Robert McNamara Kennedys and Johnsons secretary of Defense applied to Vietnam the same principles of industrial management based on graphics, charts, estimations, and regressions that he had learned at Harvard Business School and successfully applied while CEO of Ford Motor Co. Disregard for the human factor seems to be the most evident and significant consequence of policy driven by statistical issues. Just as the debate around the Great Society was vitiated by the idea that human behavior would respond mechanically once certain economic incentives were implemented, the Vietnam War was guided by the idea that expert application of military pressure would generate the proper expected outcome. Blinded by the typical arrogance of the ruling classes, bureaucrats in the Department of Defense and elsewhere in the Executive Branch believed that all of the variables would align precisely as the master plan had predicted. All that was needed was for the world to adapt to the statistical significance of estimations written by social scientists and not the other way around. The eminently authoritarian character of both wars is undeniable. All issues that might cast doubt on the expected results were set aside, and the debate within the government was always a matter of ensuring that there would be no dissent, rather than a valuation of potential shortcomings. The then French President Charles de Gaulle warned the American government that all diplomatic exits to the Vietnam crisis were being taken off the table too quickly and that soon the United States would be drawn into an unwinnable war. De Gaulles advice went unheeded, showing that there was no room for the wisdom of an experienced politician when bureaucrats believe they have found the mathematical equation that explains the universe. Anyone with the least common sense would have realized that the other war, the one against poverty, would lead to a similar outcome. When the government starts treating people like numbers, the social fabric will be subverted. In the world of mathematics, the nuances and contradictions inherent in human life are an anomaly, a bug, and nothing more. Both the Great Society and the disastrous Vietnam War represent two sides of the same process: The consolidation of imperialism exercised by the liberal corporatist state. On the inner front, not only were federal powers expanded, they were pursued according to clear objectives of social engineering. In foreign policy, the Vietnam War was prosecuted in part under misguided humane policies (not bombing the dikes) and was preceded by a chaotic attempt to reform and modernize South Vietnam by bureaucrats in Washington. Americas fate for the next 55 years was sealed by the Johnson administration. The twin wars meant the seizure of power by the bureaucrats who control the federal government, on the one hand, and by the scions of the militaryindustrial complex, on the other. The United States had unequivocally become a welfare-warfare state. Unluckily, in the 1960s, the United States experienced a combination of a government imbued with bad ideas but led by a politically skilled man. Johnson was the perfect hammer to break all the resistances toward his two wars. And he did it in an imposing way. Seldom has an American politician shown such capacity in the exercise of his duties, although the result was the creation of a mighty bureaucracy backed by laws that allowed it to intervene in private citizens lives as never before. Cornered by an almost shameful defeat in Iowa when furious voters, many thinking they were voting on the late Republican Senator Joe McCarthy of Wisconsin, almost delivered the victory to neophyte and anti-war candidate Senator Eugene McCarthy of Minnesota Johnson gave up public life. Modern-day America is still Great Societys America but with a far more powerful federal bureaucracy. Since Johnson left the White House, not one of the pillars of his authoritarian building has been shaken by the administrations that followed him. Quite the contrary, the failures of Johnsons wars have done nothing to undermine the faith of the politicians of both parties in the virtues of the all-powerful state. Homepage picture: wiki commons Rubber Wall? Although populists have won in many countries Salvini in Italy, Le Pen in France, Farage in the United Kingdom, Nationalists in Belgium, Law and Justice in Poland, and Orban in Hungary everything points out that little will change in the distribution of power and in the political dynamics within the European Union. The European unification project is authoritarian, and the European Parliament is a decorative body, practically irrelevant. The Eurocrat establishment is a rubber wall, no matter how strong you punch them, they will punch you back. The real power lies with the bureaucrats in Brussels, and these are insulated from any consequence that electoral shocks can cause. To the extent that populists decide to fight by rules designed to ensure the crushing of any dissent, they will never win. Moreover, they are much divided, and there is no popular majority supporting them at least not yet. Are young people subversive? Unlike in the United States, a significant portion of young people supports anti-establishment parties. Salvinis League, the Belgian Nationalists, and Marine Le Pens National Rally the French nationalist star is the 23-year-old Jordan Bardella, for example, were able to make deep inroads among the younger voters. As a matter of fact, the leftist newspaper Le Monde reported that the number of young people identified as supporting right-wing views has grown in a dramatic way in France. While many young Americans seem to be calling for a new Josef Stalin to guide them they might well vote for an Uncle Joe next election , the young Europeans are going in another direction. And Brexit? By capturing a third of the vote, the performance of the months-old Nigel Farages Brexit Party was a Sunday night major surprise. What does this mean for the unfolding of the political telenovela started in 2016? Nothing! The United Kingdom will not find a way out soon or later of the confusion it had gotten in when the ruling elites decided to cheat the people through a referendum Brexit that everyone thought they knew the outcome beforehand. Well, they did not know, and the mess is going on. Is it a transgender bathroom, baby? The roaring defeat of the Social-Democrats in Germany and the surge of the Greens across Europe show that a more radical cultural left-turn is an irreversible now. The Greens are advocates the whole radical cultural agenda and politically correct authoritarianism. Ideas associated with the old left such as the defense of the working class and better wages has been buried for good. Now, the dispute on the left-wing camp will be to see who can spell the greatest number of genders and to see who hates the white Christian heterosexual white man more. Conservatives? Not that conservatives like Angela Merkel are a big deal. As far as economic issues are concerned, she is on the left of the former German Chancellor and social-democrat leader Gerhard Schroder, and on the left of the communist parties of the 1980s in cultural matters. Even so, she is still called conservative and is, without a shadow of a doubt, the queen of the Eurocracy. The European Union was created to contain Germany; nowadays, the German ruling elites control Europe. These same conservative elites have as their primary desire to be the gravediggers of Christian Europe, and they are winning. Homepage photo: WikiCommons Racism and oligarchy aren't merely Blue/Red phenomena: Connecticut has had a Democratic legislature for 22 years and a Democratic governor for eight years, and it is one of the nation's most racially segregated, unequal states, divided into affluent, all-white cities and towns with virtually no affordable housing and poor, underserved towns primarily inhabited by racialized people, whose children are five times more likely to be imprisoned than the white children across the city line a few miles away. The problem isn't new: 30 years ago, the Connecticut Supreme Court allowed the state to overrule local governments that refused planning permission for high-density, lower-cost homes. The state legislature used this freedom to pass bill 8-30g, which gives developers the powers to seek court orders overturning planning decisions that go against any development that include 30% low-income units. Despite this, it's rare that developers manage to invoke the law, because the lengthy court battles associated with 8-30g challenges are a powerful disincentive (a case in Westport has been underway since 2005!). And some city governments claim that developers used threats of 8-30g challenges to win permission to build high-rise luxury condos: they say that developers demand permission for luxury condos on pain of having the building plan re-filed with 8-30g-compliant low-income housing, effectively threatening city governments with poor people if they don't get permission to build high-rise luxury housing. Meanwhile, 8-30g is under sustained legislative assault, with the state legislature frequently introducing laws to weaken it. Though the official rhetoric about keeping poor and brown people away from white enclaves isn't overtly racist, the dog-whistles are pretty loud, with claims that low-income housing would cut against the "character of the community" or reduce the "quality of the schools," or that the communities would become less "attractive and desirable" if low-income housing were built. But in town meetings, the racism is a lot closer to the surface, such as William Woermer's testimony at a 2017 Branford planning meeting, where he warned about "drug addicts" and "riffraff" whose presence would require "security guards"; in Greenwich, resident Adam Tooter (recent owner of a $1.5m house) warned that poor people wouldn't be able to shop locally because the restaurants cost too much, a claim echoed by fellow Greenwicher Gayle DePoli, who testified that her concern was that poor people would only be able to afford pizza and Dunkin' Donuts, and would be priced out of the neighborhood's gourmet ice-cream parlour. Some city officials haven't gotten the memo about keeping their racism in coded messages: Oxford First Selectman George Temple publicly worried that parking congestion during Cinco de May celebrations would impede emergency vehicles. When zoning fails to prevent affordable housing from being built, white, wealthy towns have another tactic: buying up plots of land that are likely to turn into affordable housing and keeping them off the market. Though towns deny doing this, developers say it's routine, and this is backed up by public records requests. Though the white, wealthy towns won't let poor people live there, they rely on them to do low-waged work; the long commutes and poor services endured by these workers means that there's enormous pent-up demand for low-cost housing within these exclusive communities. In Westport, the housing authority's wait list hasn't been opened in three years, but it still gets daily calls looking for housing, seven days a week. The last time it opened, in 2016, it got 1,000 applications in 30 days. It has not re-opened since. "Is safety genuinely 100% the fear or is there something else at play and the reason why these projects aren't moving forward," he said. "Let's drill down for a second. Every one of those towns has housing on a street that doesn't have a sidewalk. The difference being that those are single-family homes which are not affordable." All of this pushback is code for not allowing in poor people, says Hollister, the land-use attorney. "Does anybody say we need to keep blacks and Hispanics out of Westport? No, but they talk about property values, safety and preserving open space all the things that a town can do to prevent development that would bring up a more economically and racially diverse housing population," Hollister said. "They don't use the overt racial terms, but it's absolutely clear to everybody in the room that's what they're talking about." Separated by Design: How Some of America's Richest Towns Fight Affordable Housing [Jacqueline Rabe Thomas/ProPublica] (via Metafilter) Toronto's Metro Reference Library is hosting a Retro Futures exhibition until July 28, filled with exhibits from the collection of the Merril Collection (previously), the largest science fiction reference collection in any public library in the world. The Merril is hosting its own annex to the exhibition at its branch (Lillian H. Smith Branch, 239 College Street, 3rd floor). Included in the exhibitions: original Buck Rogers cartoons from a 1935 edition of the Toronto Star, collectible Jules Verne cards from 1900; pulp covers illustrating early visions of video-phones, life under domes and rapid transit and much more. The exhibition accompanies a lecture series on related subjects with talks from Karl Schroeder, Madeline Ashby and Hugh Spencer, and there are guided tours every Tuesday at 2PM. I am a volunteer on the board of the Toronto Public Library Foundation, which raises money from the USA for collections like the Merril; you can donate here. Wouldn't it be wonderful to have a mechanical helper who never gets tired or bored? Robots could do all the chores, giving people more time for leisure. Strong metallic bodies and brilliant computerized "brains" make robots ideal protectors and friends. But what are the risks? The word "robot" comes from a Slavonic word meaning "worker" or "servant". The first story about robots was a play written in 1920 by the Czech writer Karel Capek. Rossum's Universal Robots featured robotic factory workers. In time, they rebelled against their masters. Fear that robots might get out of control is still a major concern in science fiction. In 1942 Isaac Asimov proposed Three Laws of Robotics to prevent sentient robots from harming humans. Today's advances in engineering and artificial intelligence have made robotics a reality. We are still a long way from having robot pals like those seen in television shows of the past. Questions remain. If a machine looks and acts like a human, should it have the same rights and responsibilities as a human? What does it mean to be human? Retro Futures: Exhibit Digest [David/Toronto Reference Library Blog] (Thanks, Sephora!) Fukuoka, Japan is home to the Ichiran ramen museum, where you can see ramen noodles being made. You can also eat at an Ichiran restaurant, where you buy a menu item ticket from a vending machine then sit in one of the walled-off cubicles along the counter, so you can eat without having to interact with anyone else. That's my kind of eatery. Image: Abroad in Japan/YouTube - Zodwa Uncensored premiered on Saturday and fans were blown away - The first episode was super personal and revealed a side of Zodwa that many did not know - Fans took to social media to express their amazement and feels PAY ATTENTION: Click See First under the Following tab to see Briefly.co.za News on your News Feed! The time finally came! Zodwa Wabantu's highly anticipated reality show, Zodwa Uncensored, premiered on Saturday on Moja Love. Fans were impressed with the first taste and they are hungry for more. Zodwa promised to give fans the raw and real her, as she always does, and best believe that is what fans will be getting from the show. Briefly.co.za learnt that fans are already hooked, just after one episode. The Vosho Queen has brought her A-game with this one. The first episode was touching and personal. It showed where Zodwas roots lie, and revealed a lot about her upbringing. PAY ATTENTION: Do you want to know what's trending on Briefly.co.za? Join our WhatsApp group today. Zodwa did not have the easiest upbringing and she made sure that she would make a better future for herself, and she has. She is a strong woman but it is not always easy for her to talk about her past. Fans were moved by the first episode and cannot wait for the next. Social media was buzzing with fans comments and praise for the show. READ ALSO: Minnie Dlamini and hubby rubbed shoulders with Siya and Rachel Kolisi Enjoyed reading our story? Download BRIEFLY's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major South African news! Source: Briefly News - Kelly and Chad stole the show on Top Billing - The two caused a lot of confusion when Chad got down on one knee and proposed to Kelly - Everyone thought that these two were already engaged PAY ATTENTION: Click See First under the Following tab to see Briefly.co.za News on your News Feed! Kelly Khumalo and her rapper bae, Chad da Don, stole the show on SABC 3's Top Billing episode on Saturday evening. Viewers were left with tons of questions. Were they not already engaged and about to tie the knot?! To say that Kelly and Chads relationship has been a whirlwind would be soft. The two have fought battles that would have broken many, but they have come out on top each time. Briefly.co.za previously reported on the hype around Chad and Kellys Top Billing interview. The episode was meant to clear up the smog surrounding their relationship, but all it did was create more. To the publics knowledge, Kelly and Chad were engaged and days away from saying 'I do', until Chad got down on one knee on Top Billing. PAY ATTENTION: Do you want to know what's trending on Briefly.co.za? Join our WhatsApp group today. Top Billing's lit presenter, Jonathan Boyton Lee, went on the journey with Chad and Kelly. They started out at Chads place where the couple discussed how it all began. The party then moved to the beautiful Itaga Lodge (which Chad and Kelly practically had to themselves), and this is where the magic happened. After a day at the spa and a mushy interview with Jonathan, Chad got down on one knee in front of a beautiful bush fire and asked Kelly to marry him. The fact that the two were calling one another husband and wife the entire interview, flashing off their matchy wedding band tattoos, was just the cherry on top of the confusion cake. READ ALSO: Cassper Nyovest reaches out and offers assistance to aspiring rapper Gosh, these two are full of surprises, arent they? Theres another mystery for the adventures of Chad and Kelly! Enjoyed reading our story? Download BRIEFLY's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major South African news! Source: Briefly News News / National by Mandla Ndlovu Former Cabinet Minister Professor Jonathan Moyo once told the late ZPRA Inteliigence Supremo Dabengwa to go to hell during a heated media confrontation about the role ex-Vice President Report Phelekezela Mphoko played in the liberation struggle.Dabengwa accused Mphoko who was in charge of logistics in ZPRA of adding colour to his struggle record through misrepresentations about his military exploits.When Jonathan Moyo told Dabengwa that he was being jealous, trivial and immature the Black Russian was quoted saying, "I do not know where he comes from and thought he is wrong trying to comment on matters he had no idea of. He has no knowledge of these things and I wonder how he can comment on these,"The response by Dabengwa caused Moyo to come out guns blazing saying, "The notion or proposition that only the likes of Dumiso Dabengwa are qualified to talk about the struggle is the height of corrupt madness, and if Dabengwa truly believes in that madness, then he can go to hell. Pettiness and jealousy are the stuff of counter-revolutionaries and quislings and there are many comrades who would not like to see Dabengwa continuing in that category."I hope that Dabengwa does not see himself as synonymous with the liberation struggle such that a comment on him is ipso facto a comment on the liberation struggle."It is also important for them (war veterans) to understand and respect the fact that they do not have a monopoly to talking or bragging about that struggle, more-so given that some of yesterday's heroes are today's running dogs of imperialism."Dabengwa will be buried in Ntabazinduna on Saturday. His remains arrived in the country on Monday and were welcomed by scores of Zimbabweans from all walks of life. News / National by Methusi Ncube Confusion continues to be the order of the day in the Zanu-PF Bulawayo restructuring exercise after the party nullified all results of elections conducted last week, including those of the provincial executive council that had initially been allowed to stand.The party ordered the dissolution of all structures in Bulawayo and Harare where Zanu-PF has been losing elections heavily to the MDC since the year 2000.Vice president kembo Mohadi was assigned to oversee the programme in Bulawayo while the other vice president, Constantino Chiwenga was put in charge in Harare.Disgruntled party members told Bulawayo24.com that they viewed the nullification as a slap in Mohadi's face.In a letter to the province today Monday, the party's secretary for administration Dr Obert Mpofu said all the elections had been voided by the politburo.He said provincial executive council elections would only take place after the Politburo and president Mnangagwa, who is the party's first secretary, give the go ahead."This circular serves to advise the restructuring teams in both Bulawayo and Harare Metropolitan provinces to restrict their restructuring exercise from cell up to district level only. The teams should work independently without due influence from the local leadership. The teams should prepare comprehensive reports on the process from the beginning up to district restructuring which will be presented to the Politburo. The report should contain all the facts, figures and details about the process. Dates for the elections will be set thereafter," said Mpofu.Last week Zanu-PF director in the commissariat George Nare--in a move viewed as putting Mohadi who had okayed the elections in a bad light- said only the electionRejoice Ndlovu to chairperson of the Women's League, Cephas Ncube and Garikayi Zonde elected as chairpersons of the Main Wing and Youth League respectively were valid while the rest of the results were canceled.The rest of the winning candidates, mainly youths were served with letters barring them from contesting in fresh elections that were scheduled for the weekend but were canceled at the last minute without explanation.Nare said it was realised that the calibre of party members that were being nominated into leadership positions was below the party's expectations and standards, although their candidature had been passed by a team supervised by Mohadi.He said people with criminal records were now finding their way into the provincial leadership yet the party requires disciplined people with sound education and experience.Party members in Bulawayo alleged the Politburo was effectively saying Mohadi was incompetent in annuling the elections."We know the election results were canceled because the old guard were frightened by the number of youths that were winning. They had their preferred older candidates who have held various posts in effectually, some since independence. But the biggest message that is coming out here is that VP Mohadi failed. He allowed criminals and the uneducated to run in the election," said a winning candidate who has been barred from contesting in future elections.Party members said the Politburo seemed bent on repeating the mistake that has made ZanuPF a perennial punching bag for the opposition for almost two decades, in Bulawayo."They want to impose their own people, something that has disenfranchised members in the past. Because their people lost, they want to hold the election in an uneven playing field that will ensure they win. The result will be the same as what we've been getting since 2000, we'll be canon fodder for the MDC. News / National by Staff reporter 28/05/2019 President John Pombe Magufuli is paying a 2 Day Official Visit to Zimbabwe. An Official Dinner will be held at State House in his honour@MagufuliJP @foreigntanzania pic.twitter.com/Rg6V2czWeI Ministry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting (@InfoMinZW) May 27, 2019 Tanzanian President Mr John Pombe Magufuli is expected in the country today on a two-day official visit.According to the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services' Twitter handle, President Mnangagwa will host an official dinner at State House in his honour. News / National by Mandla Ndlovu Vice President Constantino Chiwenga's luxury jet lef India and headed to Dubai on Monday.When Former cabinet minister Professor Jonathan Moyo was asked about the health situation of Chiwenga in India he said, "India? No longer there. Try Dubai!"Chiwenga recently traveled to India for a medical checkup after his health deteriorated.Journalist Mduduzi Mathuthu whose media outlet has been tracking Chiwenga's luxury jet revealed further information about the General's suspected whereabouts."The plane left India for Dubai. Was the passenger on board? It now looks doubtful." He said. "If that's the case, it suggests that the "review" per Charamba has turned into a much bigger problem where the plane's owners are no longer certain about return date. It's in Dubai for sure. Unless he has changed planes... which I doubt much."Chiwenga became visibly sick soon after the November 2017 bloody coup that ended 7 years of President Robert Mugabe's iron rule.During his sister's funeral he revealed that him and his wife started getting sick during the coup.He is suffering from an unknown illness that causes his skin to bleach and his body to swell.South Africa's pastor Alph Lukau said he is suffering from witchcraft while conspiracy theorists allege poisoning.Zimbabwe's elite have been accused of shunning local hospitals to seek medication in foreign lands. News / National by Mandla Ndlovu The South African Federation of Trade Unions general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi has given a thumbs up to MDC leader Nelson Chamisa for his ability to rally Zimbabweans around the change agenda.Said Vavi, "The Zimbabwean opposition has what is called in politics a momentum, with the MDC Chamisa becoming an unstoppable tsunami!"Vavi was commenting on the latest MDC Congress that was held in Gweru which gathered delegates from all corners of the country."We are so encouraged when Great African legends and icons take note of the traction and electricity of the people's force and incoming government's momentum." Chamisa responded. T"hank you Cde Vavi for acknowledging our just cause."Vavi further encouraged Chamisa to push on with the struggle for change."Good luck cde Chamisa! What's unfolding in Zimbabwe today is a total disaster! Change must happen!"The MDC Congress produced what analysts have team the strongest team since 2005 split. Professor Jonathan Moyo called it the greatest thing that has ever happened since the coup.During his days at COSATU Vavi worked closely with the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions and the labour backed MDC under the then leadership of Morgan Tsvangirai.The MDC has a strong bond with Trade Unions both in the country and across the globe as it was formed by the labour movement. News / National by Nomusa Garikai Zimbabwe is in this economic and political mess because the country has had the great misfortune of having some of the most corrupt, incompetent and utterly useless politicians in human history. Having a ruthless mafia style political system that stifled debate and meaningful democratic competition has made our politics a downright dangerous occupation thus encouraging the scum on both sides of the political divide to occupy public office.Eighteen months ago, there was euphoria in Zanu-PF following the 15 November 2017 military coup which ousted Robert Mugabe, his wife Grace and a handful of the G40 faction members. Mnangagwa, the coup plotters and his Lacoste faction members went to town in portraying the coup as the spring cleaning cleansing the party of all the corrupt, incompetent and murderous tyrants. The new government, we were told, was the "new democratic dispensation ushering the Second Republic"!Mnangagwa and company were so convinced of the transformation of Zimbabwe from the pariah state ruled by corrupt, vote rigging and murderous thugs to a health and fully fledged democracy they did not waste time selling it as such to the world. By January 2018, just two months after the coup, Mnangagwa and friends were already shouting "Zimbabwe is open for business!"It was all nonsense, of course. Zanu-PF was still a party of corrupt, incompetent, vote rigging and murderous thugs, the removal of Mugabe a few others did change anything since many of those responsible for the corruption, etc. remained. By blatantly rigging the 2018 elections, Mnangagwa and company confirmed that Zimbabwe was still a pariah state or be it under a new dictator.Nelson Chamisa and many of those around him have billed the just ended MDC Alliance congress as a transformative process. Whilst Mnangagwa booted out some of the deadwood and recycled the remaining deadwood, Chamisa has brought back many of the deadwood that had left the party in the past and recycled as new.The MDC A congress has brought back Tendai Biti, Welshman Ncube and David Coltart; the 3 Amigos, into top leadership position as two VPs and Treasurer Generals respectively. The three played a pivotal role in convincing the nation to accept the 2013 new constitution."In my last profession, I was Professor of constitutional law and this is the most democratic constitution I have ever seen!" argued Professor Ncube.Soon after the nation had approved the new constitution with a warping 95%, Paul Mangwana, the Zanu-PF MP and co-chairperson on the parliamentary committee tasked to write the new constitution, boasted that Mugabe had "dictated" the new constitution. It showed, the new constitution has failed its litmus test; it failed to deliver free, fair and credible elections and many other rights and freedoms. "The most democratic constitution ever!" Yeah right!The corrupt and incompetent MDC of Tsvangirai days, blundering from pillar to post, back. Chamisa, just like Mnangagwa with his ill-conceived "Zimbabwe is open for business!", has hit the ground running after the MDC congress."From here onwards, we are going on a diplomatic offensive. We will visit every African country to present our roadmap to recovering this country. We believe in African solutions to African problems." Chamisa said in his closing remark to the party congress.The MDC roadmap will be premised on implementing the reforms necessary for free, fair and credible elections but who does not know that it was none other than Chamisa et al who failed to implement even one during the 2008 to 2013 GNU. So reforms are just a smoke screen behind which the MDC leaders are hiding their real agenda they are desperate to secure a seat of the Zimbabwe political gravy train.Zimbabwe is in a serious and urgent political and economic mess. Unemployment has soared to dizzying heights of 90%, of the population now live on US$30 or less a month, etc. Zimbabwe is on the edge of a dangerous precipice and may descent into economic chaos and political instability dragging the whole SADC region down with it. The country needs a solution to its seemingly intractable political problem of rigged elections.The solution is for Mnangagwa and his Zanu-PF junta must step down to create the space for the appointment of an interim administration that will finally implement the reforms the nation has been dying for.The Zanu-PF regime rigged last July's elections and it is ipso facto illegitimate. Chamisa and company are calling for dialogue with Zanu-PF for the sake of securing gravy train seats for themselves. We should be concerned about rescuing the nation from the consequences of the worsening economic meltdown and not appeasing the regime by granting it legitimacy by the back door.If Zanu-PF is allowed to remain in office till 2023, the party will rig that year's elections too! That is one "African solution" the people of Zimbabwe does not want. Not again! News / National by Staff reporter A HARARE couple's marriage is on the brink of collapse after the man was assaulted by his wife's alleged boyfriend.All hell broke loose at Westlea Shopping Centre over the weekend when Pasco Mueruza got a tip_off that his wife Monica was having an affair with a man identified as Shackstone Kavu.Pasco then saw his wife with the alleged boyfriend and another couple in a car at the shopping centre.While trying to get full information about the alleged affair, Pasco was beaten by his wife's boyfriend Kavu, who claimed to be a tax body official and then later identified himself as a policeman.According to a close source, Monica and Kavu were enjoying quality time in Westlea when Pasco arrived."They were enjoying quality time at Westlea Shopping Centre when her husband arrived at the scene following a tip-off."During the scuffle, Pasco was beaten by the boyfriend," said the source.The matter was reported at Mabelreign Police Station under RRB 4025656.By yesterday, the suspect was still in police custody.Contacted for comment, Pasco confirmed the incident and said he was yet to make a decision on the matter."I was assaulted by my wife's boyfriend after I caught them red-handed having a quality time in Westlea."I am still seeking medical attention because I was injured."I caught them red-handed. "There were two men in the car and another woman, alongside my wife," he said. He added: "My wife has been coming home late and I even communicated with her bosses who promised to discuss the issue with her. "My wife is cheating on me. "After the incident she went to her parents' home in Waterfalls."According to the medical affidavit, Pasco was slapped in the face. Efforts to get a comment from Monica were futile as her mobile number was not reachable until the time of going to print. News / National by Mandla Ndlovu Audio transcript: Good morning tomorrow's leadersLet us focus and plan one thing so we can prosper. Let me give you this information. Those in Harare and Bulawayo, let us be vigilant, bloodshed is about to take place. As I speak now ED(President Mnangagwa) is under House arrest, Chasi (Minister) is also under attack. Things have fallen apart,they are asking him to resign. Right now, he is under house arrest look, listen, you will agree with me very soon. Many may say it is impossible but as I say today Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa is under house arrest. ED is now operating from the State House office under the watchful eye of his army captors. They are forcing him to resign as they don't want to do a second coup. Those in towns be careful, you may die President Emmerson Mnangagwa is not under house arrest and will be receiving his counterpart Dr John Pombe Magufuli, the President of Tanzania at the Harare International airport on Tuesday afternoon.An audio that circulated all over social media on Monday led to speculative stories that President Magufuli is coming to aid Mnangagwa who was allegedly placed under house arrest by the military.However we can authoritatively reveal that Magufuli is attending a scheduled two day State visit that was arranged long time ago by both governments.We can confirm also that President Mnangagwa was on about his mandated constitutional duties on Tuesday which was a cabinet meeting day.Magufuli attended the swearing in of South Africa's Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa on weekend before proceeding to Namibia for a state visit and he finishes his tour in Zimbabwe.Find below the transcript of the audio that circulated. News / National by Ndou Paul Cabinet has resolved that it is unacceptable to sell fuel at as high as $7 per litre. Minister @fortunechasi has met players and warned them that this behaviour is not acceptable and @zeraenergy will be out in full force enforcing the law Ministry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting (@InfoMinZW) May 28, 2019 Following the post circulating on social media on the increase of fuel prices, ZERA wishes to assert that fuel prices have not been reviewed. ZERA (@zeraenergy) May 28, 2019 President Emmerson Mnangagwa's Cabinet Cabinet has resolved that it is unacceptable to sell fuel at as high as $7 per litre.In a message on their Twitter post Cabinet briefing held on Tuesday afternoon, the Ministry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting said Minister Fortune Chasi has met players and warned them that this behaviour is not acceptable.Said the Ministry, "Cabinet has resolved that it is unacceptable to sell fuel at as high as $7 per litre. Minister @fortunechasi has met players and warned them that this behaviour is not acceptable and @zeraenergy will be out in full force enforcing the law."The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has refuted reports circulating on social media on fuel price increases.In a message on their Twitter, ZERA has urged motorists to ignore the reports saying the fuel prices have not been reviewed upwards.Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Mr George Guvamatanga has concurred with ZERA that government has not increased the price of fuel.He added that while a review of prices was done, the decision is that the current prices should be maintained. Opinion / Columnist In my last Op-Ed, I spoke of the immediate and dire need for the Zimbabwean Army to step in and dispatch of the current President and the criminal elements of the ZANU PF, who would otherwise destroy what's left of our country for their sole benefit. There can be no doubt that VP Constantine Chiwenga and senior members of the army are now fully engaged in the planning of such a move, and are most likely doing so with the ongoing consultation of their foreign financial backers most notably China.While this would still constitute a vast improvement over the abysmal administration of Cde Crocodile Mnangagwa and the latter half of the Mugabe rule -- there is another way forward. A true and lasting economic recovery is predicated upon more than short-term financial supports and loans, given in exchange for the fire sale of the country's mineral wealth which will rob a generation of it's wealth.What Zimbabwe needs is more jobs, a stable and vibrant economy with a broad and diverse body of international partners, and above all else DEMOCRACY! To this end, it does not make sense for the Army to appoint another ZANU PF loyalist, such as Gideon Gono, as the new President. This would be the stupidest thing they could do and would all but insure that nothing would truly change. Gideon Gono is an 'old guard' member of the very group responsible for the destruction of the country's economy in the first place. His tenure as Reserve bank governor coincides with and the greatest economic collapse in Zimbabwe's history. The only thing at which he was allegedly successful during his decade in power was protecting his own position by paying off the Army.If the Army installs Gideon Gono as President, they will have proved in that one action, that they are as ignorant and corrupt as the ZANU PF who preceded them. If Gideon wants to be President, let him run for the office in 2023, in a free and fair election, and prove his case to the people.The best solution for Zimbabwe and for Chiwenga to effectuate real and lasting change is the following. Firstly (1), Remove Cde Crocodile and his ZANU PF cohorts from office as soon as possible. Second (2), install Chiwenga or SB Moyo or another representative of the Army to serve as provisional President until the elections in 2023. Third (3), appoint two vice presidents, one nominated by the ZANU PF and the other being Nelson Chamisa. Fourth (4), use the position of the provisional president to insure free and fair elections in 2023. Fifth (5), distribute the Ministries of State evenly between the respective political parties of the two vice presidents, keeping those of Defense, police and State security for the President. Sixth (6), require that the deputy minister for each Department is from the opposite party insuring that there is proper oversight and compelling some degree of collaboration in the management of each portfolio.In so doing, the Army and provisional President will be putting in place a unity government which would provide the basis for re-engaging with international governments, lenders and investors and create an environment whereby each of the two vice presidents must demonstrate their abilities, sincerity and worth to our people. The provisional President should invite international monitors into the country to insure that the 2023 elections are free and fair. If either party, be it the MDC or the ZANU PF are unwilling to participate in such an arrangement, then they are not worthy of the honor and privilege of leadership.VP Chiwenga has a real and present opportunity to demonstrate leadership. Not to seize power for his own gain, but for the good of our country. If he chooses this righteous path, he and the Army leadership will not only demonstrate that the military can do good, but also supplant Mugabe and Nkomo as the true fathers of democracy in Zimbabwe.Now is the time Constantine, your people are suffering. Indiana's Mandatory Fetal Burial Law Upheld By Supreme Court The Supreme Court upheld a block on a provision of an Indiana law which prevents individuals from getting abortions on the basis of disability, fetal abnormalities, and other factors. The law, signed in March of 2016 by former Governor Mike Pence, was described by Pence as a comprehensive pro-life measure. The law was blocked in April 2018, but upon the most recent revision, some provisions have been allowed to remain, most notably the requirement of the burial of fetal remains. Justice Clarence Thomas stated in his written opinion that having created the constitutional right to an abortion, this court is duty bound to address its scope. However, Thomas expressed support of the provision that requires fetal remains to be disposed of like any other human remains (cremation or formal burial), writing, "I would have thought it could go without saying that nothing in the Constitution or any decision of this Court prevents a State from requiring abortion facilities to provide for the respectful treatment of human remains. ADVERTISEMENT The law requires that abortion providers and clinics bury or cremate fetal remains, placing a substantial financial burden on already partially defunded providers. Only two justices, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor, publicly disagreed with the ruling allowing this provision to remain intact. Fetal burial has already been a highly contested issue in the United States. Back in September 2018, a federal judge in Texas blocked a law similar to Indianas fetal burial provision. The Texas law mandated that all fetal tissue from abortions, miscarriages, or ectopic pregnancies be cremated or buried. The judge, David Ezra, stated that the law imposed "significant burdens on women seeking an abortion or experiencing pregnancy loss" and that enshrining the State's view of pregnancy increases the grief, stigma, shame, and distress of women experiencing an abortion, whether induced or spontaneous What is concerning about the Supreme Courts allowance of the Indiana provision is how it frames the status of a fetus. Funerals are traditionally held for people in either a religious or non-religious context. Some who have abortions or miscarriages decide to have burials or cremations for their fetuses via services provided by funeral homes or abortion providers. Many others do not decide to do this. The point here is, people should have a choice as to what to do with their fetal remains. Making fetal burials mandatory edges further towards the gray area that is the status of a fetus. The question that has plagued the pro-choice and anti-abortion movements is whether or not a fetus is a person. Many pro-choice individuals say that the fetus is simply cells and tissue, not a human being. On the other side, those who support the anti-abortion movement use language like unborn child when referring to a fetus, and claim that fetuses are living people with human rights. Under the latters philosophy, abortion, in effect, is murder. Enforcing burials, which are associated with once formerly living people with human rights, further blurs the legal line between fetus and person. Giving fetuses personhood status has been detrimental for abortion rights in the United States and globally. This year, ten states have proposed heartbeat bills, stating that life starts with a fetal heartbeat, with five successfully passing in states such as Alabama and Georgia. Lawmakers, who are overwhelmingly male and white, continue to further the limitations on pregnant people when it comes to their bodies and their fetuses. These lawmakers often do not understand female anatomy and the stages of the pregnant body and its fetus during pregnancy. Today, since Roe v. Wade was passed 46 years ago, only ten states have laws explicitly protecting womens right to an abortion. Header Image via Wikimedia Commons More From BUST Nevada's New Abortion Legislation Highlights The Power Of A Majority-Female Senate Laverne Cox Wants Us To Use More Inclusive Language When Discussing Abortion Chika Raps About Womens Rights On Jimmy Kimmel Kat McQuade is an Editorial Intern for BUST. She is currently pursuing a B.A. in writing and literature. Originally from the Seattle area, Kat has been drinking coffee every day since she was eleven. You can follow her on Twitter at @Kat_McQ3. - T. S. Eliot Thoughts After Lambeth "The World is trying the experiment of attempting to form a civilized but non-Christian mentality. The experiment will fail; but we must be very patient in awaiting its collapse; meanwhile redeeming the time: so that the Faith may be preserved alive through the dark ages before us; to renew and rebuild civilization, and save the World from suicide." 11 Easy Side Hustles to Bring in Extra Income Strapped for Cash? We've Got 11 Possible Solutions for You Finding a lucrative side hustle can be a great way to bring in extra revenue without doing overtime at the office. Its also the perfect way to flex your inner entrepreneur (with the safety net of your full time job) while exploring a talent you may not have known you have or maybe one youve always wanted to let out. RELATED: Top 10: Highest-Paying Jobs in the U.S. How do you know what kind of side hustle is right for you? If you do want to explore an extra revenue source, think about what you can realistically commit to. If you spend your entire workday at a desk, you may want to do something outside or something that will allow you to get up and move. If you work nights, you probably dont want to be interacting with customers or clients when you should be sleeping off a night shift. Being realistic about what work you can do will help in sustaining whatever side hustle you do decide to take on. Weve sorted through the masses of side hustles out there and listed some of the best below. These are the top jobs that will pull in extra income without taking up too much of your free time (unless you want it to!). Here are some of the top side hustles, from hospitality to tech. Sell Items on eBay This one takes a lot of patience, but for the right person it can actually be a lot of fun. Start by going through your own house or apartment (bonus: youll also declutter your place!), choose what youre not using or what no longer suits your style and do some research to see what it goes for on eBay. You may be surprised how much you could get for some of those old novels or DVDs you have kicking around. If you want to take it to the next level, head to thrift shops and yard sales to scout out potential items to resell. This can be a great way to bring in loads of extra income if you have the right eye. Drive for Uber or Lyft Great for anyone looking for a side hustle who cant commit to the same time each day, driving for Uber or Lyft is convenient because you can clock in and clock out whenever you have a spare few minutes. Have a two-hour gap in your day? Pick up a ride or two. While it has largely been reported that Uber drivers dont make a ton of money, it can be a great way to support your day-to-day vices like morning coffee and take-out lunches. Rent Your Spare Bedroom on Airbnb If you have a spare bedroom (or a spare couch!) in your house or apartment, consider renting it out on Airbnb. Depending on your city and the size of your space, you could be earning upwards of a hundred dollars a day with your forgotten spare bedroom. Airbnb allows you to pick and choose the dates you host, so you could exclusively rent over the weekend or on days you know you wont be home much. This can be a great option for extroverted individuals who dont mind having strangers in their space. Also keep in mind that youll have to keep your house as tidy as a hotel so if you dont have time for daily cleaning, this may not be the best option. Become a Housesitter On the other hand, busy individuals could consider becoming a housesitter. If you dont want to veer too far away from your day to day routine, housesitting could be the perfect side hustle for you because it literally only involves living your regular life in someone elses home (and sometimes taking care of their pets while youre there). Websites like Trusted House Sitters match potential housesitters with homeowners where you discuss expectations and payments. Most housesitters can expect to make between $25-$50 per day, depending on their experience and how much needs to be done around the house. Teach English as a Second Language You probably have a few friends who have gone abroad to teach English, right? Did you know that you can also get a teaching gig without leaving your house (or full time job)? Teaching English online has become more and more popular thanks to the likes of Zoom and Skype. As a virtual teacher, you can expect to make anywhere from $15 to $50 per hour depending on your experience and the areas of the world you want to work with. Websites like VIPKID help to connect students and teachers and are a great way to get started while youre just getting the hang of things. RELATED: How to Make Money on the Side Transcribe Audio If youve ever interned in the tech or media space, youve probably had to transcribe something before. Depending on the topic of conversation youre transcribing, it can be pretty interesting, and if youre quick with your hands it can be pretty profitable, too. Whether you decide to offer independent freelance transcribing services on a website like Upwork, or you opt to work with a network of pros like REV, transcribing is a great side hustle because you really can make your own hours and work with deadlines youre comfortable with. Create an Online Course Are you an expert in a given topic? Consider creating your own online course. Influencers and industry pros alike have taken to this income stream like moths to a flame and for good reason. You only have to do the work once, and youll continue to earn revenue from your creation as long as you continue promoting it. If you dont have a large social media following, you can still create and sell your online course thanks to websites like Udemy and Teachable. Try Taskrabbit If youre a jack of many trades, you may enjoy using Taskrabbit to earn extra income. This clever Millennial-focused app matches up handymen with people who need help with a mundane task. If youre confident in your ability to do things like mount a TV, assemble furniture or help out with packing and moving, this may be your key to bringing in a significant amount of extra income. Users have reported to earn upwards of $60 per hour using the app. Become a Local Tour Guide Whether through Airbnb or independent, becoming a local tour guide can be a fulfilling way to share your love of your city. As long as you have an interesting itinerary and some cool talking points, offering walking tours is an easy (and fun) way to make some extra income. Keep in mind that most walking tours are free, but tipping is expected so make those anecdotes fun! If you opt for the Airbnb route, youll have to put together something more formal, like a foodie tour or a photography tour, but you will get paid anywhere between $30 to $200 per tour. Fill Out Online Surveys This one may seem too good to be true, but you can actually make bank by filling out the right online surveys. According to Dollar Sprout, you can make up to $50 per hour if you know where to look. Most of these surveys involve shopping trends and consumer habits in general, so if you dont mind sharing your habits, this could be a super easy way to make passive income. Make sure to do your research before getting started. We found that websites like Swagbucks, MyPoints, and Survey Junkie have the most opportunities. Become a Virtual Assistant If you already work at a desk job full time, this probably isnt the side hustle for you but if you spend most of your full time job doing manual labor away from a desk, you may appreciate becoming a virtual assistant to offset the physical work. Virtual assistants basically work remotely with office executives to ensure their jobs run smoothly. You may be asked to do anything from data entry to customer support and social media management. Depending on your location and skillset, most VAs make about $20-$50 per hour. Keep in mind that if you live and work in North America, you should be looking for a position that is in a different time zone, so you can work with your supervisor while theyre in the office. You Might Also Dig: There's a wild turkey on the loose in Ramsay Residents of a southeast Calgary neighbourhood say they've gained an unusual neighbour. A wild turkey nicknamed "Turk" has been roaming the streets of Ramsay recently. Residents have even started their own Facebook page, Loyal Followers of the Ramsay Turkey, and updates on Turk's whereabouts are posted every few hours by curious neighbours who spot him walking along the sidewalk or lounging in their yard. The Calgary Eyeopener's Danielle Nerman visited Ramsay to talk to community members about the bird and to see if she could find Turk and she did, after some helpful school children pointed her to a nearby yard. "It's right there moving under that house," said one boy. Sure enough, Turk was relaxing outside a nearby home. Brianna Suska told Nerman that she first saw the turkey a few weeks ago in her yard. She already had a bird feeder out, but now she sprinkles some of the food on the ground for Turk. "He was staring in our windows and hung around, kept coming back and he's been around ever since," she said. "He comes by when he needs food and water and friends, I guess." Some residents have started calling the turkey their mascot, while teachers at the local elementary school have used Turk's presence as a learning opportunity. "The Grade 1 class found it and they were sketching it and they were telling turkey stories all morning," a parent told Nerman. * Assad, Russia waging "bone-breaking" attack -opposition official * Sees Assad advance to Turkish border if defensive lines broken * Situation in Idlib city calm as fighting rages to the south * Turkey should defend positions, surrounding areas -official By Khalil Ashawi IDLIB CITY, Syria, May 27 (Reuters) - Russian-backed Syrian government forces will be able to advance all the way to the Turkish border if they pierce rebel defenses in the northwest, a top opposition official said, urging Turkey to do more to shield the area from a major attack. The month-long onslaught is the most serious escalation of the war between President Bashar al-Assad and his enemies since last summer. Syrian government air strikes and barrel bombing backed by Russian air power have uprooted around 250,000 people in the territory, the last significant rebel stronghold. Fawaz Hilal, head of the "Salvation Government" that runs Idlib province, expressed confidence that opposition fighters gathered in the Idlib region from all over Syria would be able resist the onslaught. "This ferocious attack is a bone-breaking battle. If the regime is able to break our defensive lines in northern Hama and southern Idlib it will not stop until it reaches the borders," Hilal told Reuters in an interview. His government, backed by the powerful Tahrir al-Sham jihadist group, had called on its employees to help shoulder the "military burden" through building sandbag defenses, manning front lines, financial support or any other help. "We are all concerned with repelling this attack," he said. The bombardment has killed 229 civilians and injured 727 since April 28, according to The Union of Medical Care and Relief Organisations (UOSSM), a U.S.-based medical NGO. Hilal spoke at his office in Idlib city, the provincial capital where life has continued as normal as the offensive has mostly targeted front-line areas to the south. Story continues "We are optimistic despite this military campaign. If we weren't, we would not be here today," Hilal said. The streets are busy with cars and pedestrians, and before sunset street vendors come out in large numbers to sell food to Muslims observing the daytime fasting for Ramadan. Hilal noted Idlib's defenses had been boosted by rebels forced from other parts of Syria such as Ghouta, Homs and Deraa when Assad took their towns and villages. "Those lads have great combat doctrine," he said. Tahrir al-Sham is the most powerful insurgent group in the region. It was formerly known as the Nusra Front, al Qaeda's Syrian wing, until it broke away and renamed itself in 2016. The United Nations designates it a terrorist group. Other rebels taking part in the defense of the area include Turkey-backed groups. Senior opposition and rebel sources said on Saturday Turkey had sent fresh supplies of weaponry to these groups to help them repel the assault. URGING TURKISH ACTION Turkey has been working with Russia for several years to de-escalate or contain Syria's conflict in the northwest. One of its aims is to avoid another refugee influx: Turkey already hosts 3.6 million Syrians. But many of those recently displaced are sheltering at the border calling on Turkey to open the frontier. Much of the recent shelling has hit an area that was declared a demilitarized "buffer zone" last year by Russia and Turkey. Under the agreement, heavy weapons and jihadists were supposed to leave the zone. The Syrian government says it is responding to Nusra Front violations and attacks on government-held areas. Turkey has a dozen military bases in the Idlib region, also established in agreement with Russia. One of these was hit earlier this month in shelling from Syrian government-held territory, with two Turkish soldiers wounded. Hilal said the Turkish positions had been allowed to be established in the hope their presence would provide protection for the people. "But the reality says that these positions are not able to protect themselves today," he said. "We hope that the Turkish side will ... defend these positions they set up and the areas they entered and prevent Russian and Syrian jets from flying in the areas where they are present, and the shelling of surrounding areas," he said. "When these positions and the areas around them are shelled with Turkish soldiers wounded it raises a number of question marks," he said, adding that Ankara should clarify "their role and what they want from these positions." (Writing by Tom Perry in Beirut Editing by Mark Heinrich) The lawyer of a Saguenay man detained in Oman says her client is being scapegoated for a $30-million fraud he did not commit. Andre Gauthier, 65, was detained three months ago, when he tried to get his Canadian passport renewed. His lawyer, Radha Stirling, says authorities in Oman now want to extradite him to the United Arab Emirates, where he could face imprisonment. "He could potentially spend the rest of his life in prison. He's a 65-year-old man," Stirling said in an interview on CBC Montreal's Daybreak Monday. "Evidence is not required to secure a conviction in the UAE, it can simply be someone's word that is sufficient to have someone detained and convicted," she said. In 2013, Stirling says her client discovered irregularities in financial records of Gold AE, where he worked as an advisor. The company, which was based in Dubai, shut down last year following the fraud allegations. Stirling said the embezzlement resembled a Ponzi scheme and that the man responsible fled the country. Submitted by the family of Andre Gauthier/Radio-Canada The blame fell on Gauthier in 2015, Stirling says, who had stayed behind to help investigate. Stirling says he was then arrested and detained for 18 months in Dubai without being formally charged. According to Gauthier's brother, a judge said he realized it wasn't Gauthier's fault, but that someone needed to be held responsible. "The judge said it that clearly, he said, 'Sir, I know you didn't do anything, but you're the only person left from the company who is still here,'" said Normand Gauthier. Andre Gauthier was finally released on an appeal, allowing him to travel to Oman and try to return to Canada. Stirling says there have been other cases where the Oman government has refused to extradite someone to the UAE. "We're hoping that in this situation, they can also see that he's definitely going to be subject to human rights violations" if he is sent back to the UAE, she said. "I don't think that this case is going to be very good for the reputation of countries that are trying to attract foreign investment," Stirling added, citing the World Expo planned for Dubai in 2020. She is hoping that Oman can be convinced to release Gauthier and let him return to Canada. A Niagara Falls, Ont., man has been fined $15,000 after he was caught flying into Canada with a suitcase full of leeches. Ippolit Bodounov tried to smuggle 4,788 live, medicinal leeches in his carry-on luggage on Oct. 17, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). He'd just flown from Russia to Toronto's Pearson International Airport. Bodounov carried the leeches in a large reusable grocery bag; within that bag were 10 smaller, dampened cloth bags, said Gerry Brunet, operations manager of ECCC's wildlife enforcement directorate, based in Burlington, Ont. A dog working with border agents smelled the leeches, Brunet said. "This is our first large-scale illegal leech import," he said, though the ministry sees a lot of illegally imported reptiles, turtles, tortoises and snakes. The ministry sent the leeches to the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, where Sebastian Kvist, curator of invertebrate zoology, identified them as hirudo verbana, a threatened medicinal leech. Surprisingly, all the leeches survived, Kvist said. About 240 were then sent to the American Museum of Natural History in New York, where DNA sequencing of their stomach contents and found they were caught in the wild. Environment and Climate Change Canada People have been harvesting the breed for medicinal purposes since medieval times, Kvist said. "New age medicine" practitioners use them for everything from lessening arthritis pain to preventing baldness, he said, although there's no scientific proof that this works. The only proven use of leeches in medicine, he said, is to stimulate blood flow in reattached fingers and toes. In some cases, they also deter strokes. Medicinal leeches sell for between $8 and $20 per leech, he said. Not only are they threatened, and unregulated, but they're an invasive species too. Kvist said some leech populations exclusive to Europe have been found in Alberta because people drop them in local lakes when they're done with them. Story continues Bodounov pleaded guilty on May 24 to violating the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act. Environment and Climate Change Canada He was fined, and also banned for a year from importing, exporting and possessing any animals regulated through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Brunet said illegal wildlife trade is worth about $20 billion a year. "Canada does not tolerate the exploitation of threatened species for profit," he said. On the rusted deck of the MV Ethan, Vyacheslav Borshchevskij offers a smile and a hand to the cameraman who has come to record snippets of his daily life. He's cheery despite the fact he hasn't seen his wife and family back in Ukraine since he flew into Quebec City a few days before Christmas in 2016. "The hardest thing is to stay here and not being sure there's a good reason," said Borshchevskij. Richard Thompson, who lives on the ship with Borshchevskij, moves slowly up the narrow stairs to the bridge deck, where a constant beeping signals a battery is dead. One more thing to fix if the ship is to ever leave port. The two men are both 59, both veteran sailors and both at the edge of despair after being stuck on a ship that was supposed to set sail nearly three years ago. "We never felt it would come to this point," said Thompson, sitting in the MV Ethan's dining room. There are eight chairs and place settings at the table, but it's been almost two years since a full crew has sat down for a meal. When D&D Maritime, the company that owns the ship, ran into financial trouble in 2017, most of the crew left. "When I left home, my son was five years of age. Now he's eight, going on nine," said Thompson. Thompson and Borshchevskij say they've been waiting, holding out hope they'll get paid what they're owed: a combined $264,000 US, at this point. They stayed because they say they were strung along by the ship's owners, who kept promising they would be paid if they could just wait a little longer. In the maritime world, Thompson said it's "unheard of" to leave a ship unmanned. And federal legislation passed at the end of February automatically transfers ownership of any abandoned vessel to the Canadian government, which would leave the two men without any hope of recouping their wages. "How can we go home to our families with zero dollars?" said Thompson. "It's an embarrassing situation." Story continues Thompson's family is in Nassau, Bahamas, and keeps asking when he's coming home. Bahamian company D&D Maritime purchased the ship in the summer of 2016 for more than $750,000 US cash. A year later, the company ran out of money and was unable to pay the crew. Thompson says he's owed $110,000 US in wages, as well as an additional $50,000, because he paid some of the crew members' paycheques and expenses from his own savings. Borshchevskij is out $104,000 US. "We basically kept the ship alive, because we know the ship is worthless if we let it go, if you don't keep the electricity going, the radios warm, the water running through the pipes so they don't freeze," said Thompson. From bad to worse Borshchevskij and Thompson have learned to live together. They take turns cooking and leave the ship on occasion on bicycle or by taxi for groceries. Their lowest point came earlier this year. In April, the Port of Quebec successfully obtained an order from a Federal Court judge to force the sale of the MV Ethan. D&D Maritime had not paid its port fees in more than a year. Port lawyers argued the state of the ship, built in 1975, was deteriorating and it would be in the best interest of creditors to sell it as soon as possible. On May 17, it sold for $150,000 US not nearly enough to pay the men and the Port of Quebec. "There's no mention of us [in the ruling]," said Thompson. "We've been forgotten." CBC News contacted one of the owners of D&D Maritime, Chuck Deal, in the Bahamas. He is still making promises. "We are going to pay whatever bills and the crew. We are waiting for extra funding," said Deal. "It might take us a few months." Deal would not agree to a recorded interview, but said he is hiring a lawyer to appeal the Federal Court ruling forcing the sale of the ship. Sailors' last recourse According to Thompson, it's a general maritime rule that sailors are paid first when a ship is sold. But he's skeptical that will happen. The pair has filed what's called a "note of protest" to the Federal Court to be considered priority creditors, aiming to make sure that the time they've spent waiting will be worth something. Borshchevskij says he dreams of going home and taking his grandchildren into his arms, instead of cradling their pictures on a cellphone. He needs a vacation, too. But after that, Borshchevskij says he has to get his professional life back in order. During his 30-month stay on the ship, his certification has lapsed. "That's the biggest problem for me, and I don't know how long it will take for me to refresh my certificate," he said. As for Thompson, he says he isn't sure he can face his family after using part of their savings to pay to keep the MV Ethan working. He has two grown children in their 20s and two more in their teens. Thompson had the chance to leave in 2017, when there were still others on the MV Ethan; he'd thought about going home for his birthday on April 23. "I should have gone and I didn't. And I haven't been home for any birthdays since." The rocks date from 3.3 billion years ago (Getty) Extraterrestrial organic matter has been found in volcanic sediment in South Africa, dating from 3.3 billion years ago. The traces of carbon could come from ancient meteorites which hit our planet, and are thought to be the oldest extraterrestrial organic matter ever found. The find doesnt prove that aliens visted our planet but it lends weight to the idea that the building blocks of life may have arrived in rocks from space. Frances Westall from the CNRS Centre for Molecular Biophysics said, This is the very first time that we have found actual evidence for extraterrestrial carbon in terrestrial rocks. The organic matter from the carbon-rich meteorites must have been raining down at quite a high rate. READ MORE Nigel Farage vows to stand in general election after European election victory Westall and her team found a 2mm thick rock layer with anomalous signals in South Africas Makhonjwa Mountains. The researchers found signals suggesting the presence of carbon, and of nanoparticles of nickel, chromium and iron, commonly found in meteorites. The researchers say that the presence of both is puzzling. The researchers write, It is difficult to envisage a single impact event preserving both organic matter and spinel particles in such a thin sedimentary layer. On the one hand, hydrogenated organic matter can survive only if the temperature of the falling matter does not exceed a few hundred degrees. On the other hand, cosmic spinels are formed by a high degree of melting of the object, as it falls towards the Earths surface. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo UK Experts believe the rare bear is around 2 years old and "looks quite well" Around Memorial Day weekend right when the fashion rules say its alright to wear head-to-toe white the first known photo of an all-white, albino panda was debuted to the world. According to the New York Times, the picture of the rare bear was taken by an infrared camera in April at the Wolong National Nature Reserve in Chinas Sichuan province. Experts believe is it the first fully albino giant panda to be photographed. Albinism, a genetic condition known to affect at least 8 bear species, prevents the body from producing a the normal amount of melanin a chemical that affects the pigmentation of an animals eyes, hair and skin. While the condition is rare, it is even more unlikely to see a wild animal with albinism, since their bright coloration usually makes them an easy target for predators. RELATED: 36 Giant Pandas Make Their Public Debut Together Based on the photo, albinism has not affected the life of the white panda much, said Dr. Li Sheng, of Peking University and the Species Survival Commission of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, told the New York Times. It looks quite well, quite strong. Experts like Dr. Li think the unique panda is around 2 years old, reports CNN. The nature reserve where the animal was spotted plans to set up more cameras in hopes of capturing the albino pandas growth and development. According to BBC, albinism has been documented in pandas before, but those bears were brown and white, not all-white. Are You Leveraging Your Greatest Asset for Advocacy? When it comes to customer engagement, theres no better resource than your brand advocates. Naturally, your products or services have to meet standards of excellence including your contact center operations but with so many buying options, advocacy carries more weight than ever. Many companies focus on customer advocacy, or they hire strategic social advocates to promote their products. While the latter has some value, customers have gotten wise to paid social posts from celebrities, reducing their impact though there is still brand awareness value in those impressions. As a result, trust in customer advocacy, including online reviews, has also eroded to some degree, as customers arent sure who to believe. Because of this, customers often opt for the safest way to avoid making mistakes relying on opinions from those they do trust, which is where any businesses should start building a base of advocates. A great place to start and one that is largely untapped advocacy resource in most companies is the employee base. After all, regardless of their roles within an organization, every employee is intimately connected to and engaged with the brand and its story. In fact, surveys have shown that, second only to knowledgeable friends, family, and colleagues, employees are most credible source of information about a company. Employees rank above all media sources and well above corporate leadership. There many theories on employee advocacy programs, including those that suggest strict control over language and messaging to ensure only the right content is being delivered. Common sense, though, dictates that are more likely to be better advocates when allowed to communicate in their own voices whether on a corporate website, personal blog, social media, or directly with customers for those that have customer-facing roles, like contact center agents and field workers. Employees have a vested interest in driving positive outcomes and they are knowledgeable about their brands. As a result, they are highly likely to provide appropriate advice, as long as they have been afforded a positive working environment. Is there a fear an employee may give advice to a customer that drives them to a competitive firm? Of course. But, there are instances where your brand may not be able to deliver what the customer expects, in which case, suggesting an alternative vendor may result in lost business in the short term. But, by providing the right advice, your employee has built trust, which often results in customers coming back when they have additional needs. If your product quality is superior, the long-term effect of honest customer engagements is much more significant than one sale. While you may not have won a particular engagement, youve built credibility that will be met in kind. Remember, the most trusted source of information is friends and family. By creating an environment of trust, you have extended your brand advocacy to that customers sphere of influence. On the other hand, by misleading them into making a purchasing decision that isnt right for them, youre damaging trust and sacrificing future opportunities for immediate gain. Customers want to know they are being heard. Giving them honest information that meets their needs and expectations goes a long way towards building loyalty, and using your best experts your employees is your path to building a base of strong customer advocates and brand loyalists. Building an army of brand advocates requires more than quality product. Of course, thats a prerequisite, but encouraging your employees to talk about your brand at every opportunity and across all available channels is an easy starting point that requires no additional investment other than ensuring you are honest with them about expectations. If you create a culture of advocacy, your employees will, in turn, drive brand awareness and recruit additional advocates as an inherent part of the process. Edited by Erik Linask Sgt. Jeremy Armstrong chats with his grandmother, Barbara Armstrong, after his guest speaker presentation at the Memorial Day Ceremony in Brooks Park on Monday. WILLIAM F. GALVIN PHOTO HARWICH For your tomorrow, we gave our today are powerful words of sacrifice to reflect upon on Memorial Day. Those words are from an epitaph of a fallen American warrior, Sgt. Jeremy Armstrong told a large crowd gathered around the bandstand at Brooks Park Monday. Monomoy Regional Middle School seventh grade students Megan Crowe, Kathryn Neal and Amy Hoye play Taps during the Memorial Day Ceremony Monday in Brooks Park. Armstrong, a Harwich resident, spent four years in the 3rd Cavalry Regiment, including a 12-month deployment to Iraq. He continues to serve as an infantry squad leader and is the training NCO for the Massachusetts National Guard. Its why its important this Memorial Day to reflect upon the tomorrows left to us by thousands of brave and selfless men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice fighting our nations wars, he said. It is their sacrifices that allow us to gather on the village green in Harwich Center on such a beautiful day and remember the fallen, Armstrong said. Memorial Day is the one day each year set aside to remember those who Abraham Lincoln observed gave the last, full measure of devotion, he added. From the earliest days in American history, when our nations only armed force was the militia, established here in Massachusetts in 1636, [those] who chose to volunteer to defend their newly-formed communities, men and women have chosen to raise their hand and to keep our nation free, Armstrong said. American soldiers have fallen in the jungles of the South Pacific and on the beaches of Normandy; on the icy slopes of the Korean Peninsula and in the rice paddies of Vietnam; on mountains and in caves in Afghanistan and on the sands of Iraq. But Armstrong emphasized with increased suicide rates of soldiers today, as many as 22 every day. They continue to fall here at home, he said. Next week will mark the 75th anniversary of Operation Overload when 160,000 Allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy, and 9,000 soldiers were killed or wounded in the largest amphibious assault in human history. As WWII veteran numbers diminish and D-Day passes from living memory to history, I encourage you to learn about the Greatest Generation and remember their sacrifices, Armstrong said. We must remember the families they left behind and the losses suffered by friends, employees, neighbors and their extended community. Their loss, and the legacy of freedom they left behind, allows us to enjoy days like this. Memorial Day is an American tradition that unofficially marks the beginning of summer, especially here where untold numbers of people travel to enjoy our little slice of paradise, he said. It is generally marked by the opening of pools, backyard barbecues, five-mile back ups in each directions at both bridges and the complete and utter impossibility of making a left hand turn on Route 28. This Memorial Day, as we spend time with family and friends, please reflect upon the legacy left to us by all the brave men and women of our nations Armed Forces. By honoring our fallen warriors and embracing their families as our own, we honor their legacy of ensuring democracy, freedom, equality and lasting peace prevails, Armstrong said. Selectman Donald Howell presented a proclamation from the board of selectmen stating it is most fitting on this day and on every Memorial Day to show gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice by all deceased servicemen and women, individuals who served with honor and courage to protect and strengthen the ideals and principles of the country. The continuing observance of this day affords the people of Harwich a special opportunity to commemorate the many selfless Americans who gave their lives in the service of their country, Howell said. Sgt. Jeremy Armstrong was guest speaker at Mondays Memorial Day Ceremony. Selectman Donald Howell presents the board of selectmens proclamation at the Memorial Day Ceremony. Members of the Monomoy Regional High School Ladies A Capella Group sing the Nation Anthem during the Memorial Day Ceremony in Brooks Park on Monday. The members are Orla Delaney, Samantha Dunford, Phoebe Gill, Olivia Sims, Audrey Smith, Libby Anderson, Sage Barnes and Olivia Prisco. Results of the 2019 Dunn County Community Health Needs will be revealed at the first Community Health Coalition Conference at University of Wisconsin-Stout on Tuesday, July 16. The Dunn County Community Health Coalition event, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Memorial Student Center, will be a celebration of the coalition. The coalition, also known as Health Dunn Right, includes the university, Mayo Clinic Health Systems, Dunn County Health Department and the Community Foundation of Dunn County. Health Dunn Right is also supported by the Initiative for the Creation of the UW-Stout Center for the Study and Promotion of Health and Wellbeing. The conference is free and open to community members, thanks to a donation by the Community Foundation of Dunn County. To register go to www.uwstout.edu/Health-Dunn-Right. Lunch will be provided. The health assessment results and community input will be used to create a County Health Improvement Plan. Other conference sessions will focus on how to strengthen coalition capacity, guide attendees on how to build community leadership, develop active participation skills and energize collective action. We want community members to help guide our efforts, said Cristy Linse, director of the UW-Stout initiative. Its meant to gather people with similar interests and ideas and move forward. Factors that impact mental and emotional health needs include availability and access to high-quality education, nutritious food, decent and safe housing, affordable and reliable public transportation, culturally sensitive health care providers, health insurance, and clean water and air, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Geographic location also can impact health disparities. Lauri Badura of Oconomowoc and Deb Clarke are the conference keynote speakers. Badura will address drug addiction and its relationship with mental health and her grassroots organization, Saving Others For Archie. She started SOFA in memory of her first son, Archie, 19, who died from a heroin overdose in 2014. She will address how such organizations can positively impact a community. SOFA also focuses on treating mental illness. Clarke, a leadership and organizational development trainer for Chippewa Valley Technical College, will talk on dynamic team building specific to how accountability can be achieved among team members in a community coalition. Community members interested in the health and wellbeing of Dunn County citizens are encouraged to attend the conference, including direct health providers, business owners, faith and community leaders, retirees, students, parents, nonprofit and government leaders and elected officials. Mayor Randy Knaack supports the initiative and encourages Dunn County residents to attend and find out how they can be part of the solutions. This effort will impact our children for the rest of their lives, and it has to start here with all citizens working together, Knaack said. It needs all of us working on improving our situation regarding health issues. Good health is important to all of us living in Menomonie and Dunn County. The idea for a health center at UW-Stout started about three years ago with Bob Salt, dean of the College of Education, Hospitality, Health and Human Sciences. The center could provide programs, conferences, workshops and other events for those in the health and wellness fields to help continue their learning. Yearly conferences could help the public learn more about health care options, including affordability and availability. Faculty and students could conduct research and work with the public. An online giving page has been created to help establish the center, which is expected to be self-sustaining through grants and/or private funding. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 New University of Wisconsin-Stout vice chancellor for University Advancement and Alumni Relations Willie Johnson knows the importance each gift the university receives from donors and the impact they have on students. Donors want to have an impact on students or a program, Johnson said. They love hearing students stories. Johnson, who most recently worked as vice president of Development and Alumni Relations at Illinois College in Jacksonville, Ill., and started at UW-Stout May 1, said one of the favorite parts of his job is when students receive scholarships and then meet the donors who gave the funds for that gift. To see the looks on their faces and have that interaction is really gratifying, Johnson said. Every gift has an impact. I dont know if people fully realize the impact those gifts have on students. Donations for scholarships help students pay for school, housing and even food. Gifts to programs provide students the educational tools they need to graduate and succeed, Johnson said. Johnson said he was attracted to UW-Stout because of its unique blend of education and preparing students for careers with internships. He found the dedication of faculty and staff to the institution attractive as well. UW-Stout is still in the midst of the Pathways Forward comprehensive campaign. The goal of Pathways Forward is to keep UW-Stout moving forward with private support supplementing state funding. Pathways Forward endeavors to raise $35 million in three areas: Student Experience, Learning Environments and Program Innovation. Because of the success of the campaign so far, Chancellor Bob Meyer has announced an aspirational goal of $40 million. The campaign runs through June 30, 2020. The campaign has been very successful, Johnson said. The conversations I have had with staff and Chancellor Bob Meyer make me believe we will meet the $35 million goal and the $40 million aspirational goal, he added. One of his goals will be to continue that successful campaign and work to retain those donors who support UW-Stout. We want to maintain the momentum and be able to build on the engagement theyve had up to this point, Johnson said. His goal is to work with the provost, who will become the interim chancellor after Meyer retires in August, and the Stout University Foundation Board of Directors to determine future needs to continue to strengthen the universitys programs. At Illinois College, Johnson planned and implemented a $50 million comprehensive campaign. He has vast experience working in university development in the Midwest. He holds a masters in business administration from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University and bachelors degrees in business administration and social work from Warburg College in Waverly, Iowa. Social work is about advocacy, Johnson said. What I am advocating for now is the support of higher education. The soft and hard skills I learned in social work are very applicable to what I ended up doing. Johnson replaces Mark Parsons, who retired April 1. I was impressed by the breadth of Willies experience in elevating the performance of the fundraising teams he led, Meyer said in announcing Johnsons appointment. I believe he will fit in well with the tremendous advancement and fundraising staff we have at UW-Stout and will lead them to even greater success with our benefactors and alumni. Johnson and his wife, Sandy, have two grown children, Evan and Chelsea. An avid walker, Johnson strives to cover four to five miles a day. He also enjoys visiting presidential libraries and museums and has been to more than half a dozen already. His favorite so far has been President John F. Kennedys in Boston. It is well done, Johnson said, noting he enjoys learning the history at the museums. The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum in Austin, Texas, is on Johnsons bucket list. The 36 President grew up in a small town in Texas. He took a broader view about civil rights and was a politician who did what was good for the country, Johnson said. Johnson, who grew up in the Des Moines, Iowa, area, wants to have a positive impact on the university community. What we are here for is the students, he noted. We have to make sure they have a meaningful experience at this institution. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Racism is a haunting spectre yet to be expelled from our culture. It is an issue every generation must address, and a conversation that continues to play out on the nightly news. Letters to a Birmingham Jail is a collection of writing that speaks to the perennial issue of racism in America. Pastor Bryan Loritts compiled this collection of letters from respected theologians, referencing the timeless letter from Dr. Martin Luther King Junior: Letters from a Birmingham Jail. Dr Kings original work was written from his jail cell in 1963, in response to a letter he received from a group of clergymen. The clergymen urged him to be patient and not take drastic action to further the cause of civil rights. The book is his response and reveals the heart and soul of one of the key figures of the civil rights movement in America. Closed eyes Bryan Loritts recounts a conversation with a friend on the subway. His friend would close his eyes mid-conversation every time the train was loading: His mother had raised him, that if he was ever in a situation where there were no seats and women were standing, the chivalrous thing to do would be to give up his seat. He didnt want to do that on this day; so he reasoned that if he would just close his eyes and not see women standing, he could continue his comfortable life. Dr. King felt the clergymen exuded a strong sense of indifference to the social ills of racism, and thus did not feel compelled by it. He wrote that they needed to be moved to action with a greater urgency to ensure that their fellow brothers and sisters had an unfettered quality of life. Consider this challenge: Have we, as Christians, been closing our eyes to social inequity and the disparities before us? How many of us have closed our eyes to ease our consciences, in order to have a certain measure of convenience and comfort? How many of us have hoped for time to do the healing or fixing? In his letter Dr. King makes a salient point: Human progress never rolls in on the heels of inevitability, it comes through tireless efforts of men willing to be co-workers with God and without this hard work, time itself becomes an ally of the forces of social stagnation. We are called to more We are not called to passive indifference, but to an active faith; to engage in the world preaching the gospel; but also helping people who are the least of these. As Loritts notes: If our vertical reconciliation to God requires intentionality, then our horizontal reconciliation necessitates the same intentionality. We need to be intentional about mending the issues in this world caused by the fall and see it not as a social gospel, but a part of preaching and living the full counsel of Gods word. In Lukes Gospel a Lawyer asks Jesus, who is my neighbor? Jesus responds with a parable that cuts right to the heart of the issue. A traveler is rudely handled by robbers and left for dead. Three people pass him by: the Levite and the priest walk by and offer no assistance, but the person least expected to help does a Samaritan. He not only offers help, but does so at a cost, at an inconvenience (he stopped his journey to help). The lawyer was challenged to do so, just like this Samaritan - to show active help and display a faith that gets involved in the life of someone needing help, for this is the call of the Gospel. James writes about the kind of faith God expects: What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, Go in peace, be warmed and filled, without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. Let us not have our eyes closed with passive indifference, but open with active love and compassion as the Gospel moves us to model, Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world (James chapter 1, verse 27). Paul Lewis is a Staff Worker for Universities and Colleges Christian Fellowship in Kingston Jamaica, where he also resides. He has aspirations of becoming a Christian apologist and he loves reading, especially topics like: History, Philosophy and Theology. You can follow him on twitter @PaulAULewis Paul Lewis' previous articles may be viewed athttp://www.pressserviceinternational.org/paul-lewis.html As a part of the companys 30th anniversary celebration, Miami Cigar and Company has announced it will bring back its Don Lino Africa line. This time Miami Cigar and Company will partner with AJ Fernandez to handle production of the line. Don Lino Africa will officially have its return at the 2019 IPCPR Trade Show. Anyone that knows Nestor knows his love of travel, and years ago his travels to the African continent inspired his creation of Don Lino Africa, said Jason Wood, Miami Cigar & Company Vice President in a press release. Africa was an extremely popular line for us, and it made sense as part of our continued 30th anniversary celebration in 2019 that we bring it back to light. From the blend, to the boxes, store pieces, and presentation Africa was a complete work of art and our goal at the beginning was to see to it that the customer can experience all that once again. In regards to the partnership with AJ Fernandez, Wood commented, We also are excited to announce that Africas production will be handled by Tabacalera AJ Fernandez. AJ and Nestor have known each other for years, and AJs commitment to artistry in tobacco blending is known throughout the industry. We are thrilled to be able to announce this partnership and quickly fell in love with his interpretation of Don Lino Africa. It is an exotic, complex blend that captures the original spirit of the line perfectly. Fernandez has revamped the blend and it now features an Ecuadorian Habano 2000 wrapper, an African Cameroon binder, and a combination of Piloto Dominicano, Ometepe, Jalapa, and Esteli fillers. It will be available in four box-pressed sizes and is expected to ship in September. There is a mystery and depth to Africa that captivates my spirit, always drawing me to come back, added Miami Cigar Company co-founder Nestor Miranda. This blend captures the way going there makes me feel. Its truly an amazing, even mesmerizing cigar. At a glance, here is a look at the Don Lino Africa: Blend and Origin Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano 2000 Binder: African Cameroon Filler: Dominican Piloto, Nicaraguan (Ometepe, Jalapa, and Esteli) Country of Origin: Nicaragua Factory: Tabacalera AJ Fernandez Vitolas Offered Petite Corona Kudu: 4 x 44 (SRP $5.98) Robusto Duma: 5 x 50 (SRP $9.00) Toro Punda Milia: 5 1/2 x 54 (SRP $10.00) Gran Toro Tembo: 6 x 60 (SRP $11.00) Belicoso Kifaru: 6 1/4 x 52 (SRP $10.50) Tabacalera G. Kafie y Cia is going to have a new name. Dr. Gaby Kafie has announced the factory is being renamed Tabacalera La Union. Kafie says the reason for the name change is that the factory has grown from producing its own brands (Kafie 1901 and San Jeronimo Cigars) to now handling production for eight other brands. Both the Ferrera family of Honduras and the Kafie family of Honduras have joined forces to build a completely vertical cigar factory. Together we are stronger. It is not about 1 person or 1 brand, its about all of us helping each other achieve new heights, commented Kafie on his Facebook page. The name La Union refers to a small fishing village on the Pacific coast of El Salvador. Its where Kafies father was born and its the place where the Kafie family had first settled in Central America. La Union also means the union in English. When Nate Parde decided to join the inaugural campaign of Leading Locally, he was simply looking for a way to understand his community a little better and make a few new connections. Parde, a Geneva native, serves as the community president of lending at Bank of the Valley in Bellwood. Living in David City, Parde learned of an opportunity being provided by Nebraska Extension-Butler County that would offer participants a chance to bolster their leadership skills, discover the varied facets of the county, reveal community assets and complete a community service project. I thought this would be a good way to meet people who want to make Butler County a better place, to move it forward, Parde said. I enjoy being here and thought it would be a good way to meet new people in the community, especially those people who want to advance the county in the right direction. Parde and nine others recently graduated from the approximately eight-month-long course earlier this month during a ceremony held in downtown David City. The cost of the program was $100, with half being offset by the Butler County Area Foundation Fund. Classes were held from 10 a.m. through 2 p.m. once monthly starting in October, and most employers were extremely accommodating with letting employees take off time to participate, said Kurt Mantonya, course instructor and community vitality educator for Nebraska Extension. Each month, a new topic was covered. Each topic was one deemed of vital importance by Mantonya and Nebraska Extension. Course content included: Getting to Know Your County, From Vision to Action, Attracting Newcomers to your Community, Social Media Marketing, My Leadership Style, Strengthening Membership, Building Strategic Partnerships and Community Philanthropy. Course graduates were: Austin Witmer, Parde, Kirstin Bailey, Ashley Witmer, Kelli Luebbert, Kristina Strong, Dulcie Archuleta, Kate Slama, Cherie Meysenburg and Ali Prochaska. I met a lot of great people that I became friends with and whom I can collaborate with, Parde said. We found out about a lot of the assets Butler County has today and how we can make them more known to everyone in the community and surrounding areas so that everyone knows what a great place Butler County is. Mantonya noted that a similar course was offered several years ago, but that it ultimately phased out. That course was analyzed, refined, and reintroduced as the new Leading Locally campaign. Most participants this go-round were 30 years old or less and are people Nebraska Extension representatives view as real movers and shakers heading into the future. You look at what leads to success. And a lot of times its a cadre of volunteers and committed people and resources, Mantonya said. And then you think about what you want Butler County to look like in 20 years if money wasnt a limit and resources were no limit. So you can have these grandiose ideas, but that is where the meat and potatoes really come in. You have to figure out what we as a community can do to get there. During their Vision to Action session, members brainstormed about what some visions were that could benefit the county, and how they could take that vision and transform it into action. They decided collectively to host a community cleanup day, where county residents could haul in loads of old or unusable household items. In late April, 57 people at a $10 expense per vehicle dropped off old appliances like TVs, air conditioning units, mattresses and other unwanted items to the tune of 8 tons. Prior to the cleanup campaign, Leading Locally participants for several months worked on the different aspects of the project, like finding a date and location, working with local roll-off company to secure dumpsters, rounding up volunteers and tackling marketing and advertising. It was a collaborative effort, Parde said, adding that networking with community members is paramount to achieve any level of community success. Its really the bloodline of a community, Parde said. Its what gets people to come back and make a community better. A second Leading Locally class is planned for fall of this year. Details will be provided in the upcoming months. For more information, those interested are encouraged to reach Mantonya at kmantonya3@unl.edu. Sam Pimper is the news editor of The Banner-Press. Reach him via email at sam.pimper@lee.net. 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. Neither President Janet Bemis nor Vice President Viki McCracken of the John Saylor Unit of American Legion Auxiliary remembered exactly how long there has been a Memorial Day ceremony held at Circle Mound Cemetery in Rising City. What they could say for certain, though, is that they both have been attending since they were children more than 50 years ago. This year, more than 125 flags were planted - each one representing a service member of the United State military who lost his or her life in combat. "We're trying to honor all the veterans that have given service to give us freedom," McCracken said. People from all around the area showed up for the ceremony, including a younger generation that Bemis noted she was happy to see in attendance. "We like to see the younger people come because they need to know the history of all of this and see how we honor our past soldiers that have lost their lives," she said. Vietnam War veteran and Rising City High School alumnus Alton K. Crook was the guest speaker during the Memorial Day gathering. Crook graduated from Rising City High School in 1960 before going on to serve in the U.S. Army from 1965-1967. While in service as a platoon leader, he was wounded twice and received a Purple Heart - a U.S. military decoration awarded in the name of the president to those wounded or killed while serving. He also was a recipient of four Bronze Stars for Valor while serving in Vietnam, a U.S. decoration awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces for either heroic achievement, heroic service, meritorious achievement, or meritorious service in a combat zone. "I think it's very important (to have these ceremonies), especially for people under 50 where a majority of the people have not served and now we're reaching the third generation of people who have no lineage of any of their aunts or uncles having served," Crook said. "We need to keep the history alive of how this country was kept strong over the last couple hundred years by men and women serving in the armed forces ensuring those freedoms that we all enjoy." A lot of work went into making sure this year's ceremony went according to plan. Every veteran in the cemetery had a flag placed at his or her grave in addition to the 125 flags also erected. With all the work needing completed, McCracken said she was thankful to the community for all of its assistance. "Rising City is known as probably most small communities, you cry for help and we have volunteers that come and help," she said. "Of course, everyone is more than thankful to our veterans that have given their lives." It costs $50 for each flag to be planted, and while many are paid for by family members, some people reach out to pay for veterans they don't even know or have any ties with. "There are lots of people that are not from this area that don't even know about this and so we are very fortunate we have had people in the community that just said 'who's buried out there that needs a flag?'" Bemis said. "They're donating the $50 to help us get a flag for every veteran we know out here." Bemis said it took more than an hour to plant the flags on Monday morning and more than an hour to put the additional flags at veterans' graves. "This morning it took us about an hour," she said. "We have community members that come and help. Our husbands come in and help. We put the word out and we just really have a good representation of people coming." The county's veterans administration also plays a key part in helping make the ceremony possible. "The county veterans administration furnishes the flag holders and keeps good track of where our veterans served and what time they served and what their rank was, so we really rely on the veteran administration to help us," McCraken said. Being one of the only Memorial Day services in the area, Rising City tends to get a good crowd. "We have a fabulous turnout," McCraken said. "In fact, the honor guard commented that of all the different cemeteries that they go to, for our size of the community, we have a very good turnout." Crook said he believes the goal of these ceremonies should be remembering the military members that are no longer around. "I think the main purpose should be that we are keeping the memories alive of those who went and served their country, that helped keep this country free and the sacrifices that will have to be made in the future because the world in a scary place," he said. "I would like to keep the memories alive of those fallen heroes who went before and gave the ultimate sacrifice. They didn't have the chance that I did. I was wounded several times, I was fortunate that I survived those wounds and I was able to enjoy my senior years." Those wishing to help out or help pay for the cost of a flag next year can reach Bemis at 402-367-3667. Peter Huguenin is a sports reporter for The Banner-Press. Reach him via email at peter.huguenin@lee.net 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. Memorial Day is a great time for backyard barbecues and pool parties, but it has a much deeper significance. Its a day when we commemorate the brave men and women who paid the ultimate price so that we can enjoy our freedoms in peace. Today, we are able to spend a carefree day of relaxation with friends and family because of their courageous sacrifices. However, we should never forget the true meaning of Memorial Day: remembering our fallen. The greatness of a nation is not measured by the wars that are won but by the peace and prosperity for the people that the victories bring. Throughout our states history, Nebraskans have been at the forefront of Americas military engagements, putting themselves in harms way to protect the liberties we hold dear. From Europe to Southeast Asia to the Middle East, Nebraskans have traveled across the globe to keep their homeland safe. June 6, 2019, will mark the 75th anniversary of D-Daythe Allies amphibious invasion of Normandy that turned the tide in World War II. The largest of the invasions five landing sites, Omaha Beach, bears the name of our states most populous city. Despite high winds, choppy waters, and intense enemy fire, Allied forces accomplished their goal of securing footholds along the coastline of Normandy. Around 2,500 American soldiers, including several Nebraskans, lost their lives on D-Day. The death toll would have been even higher if not for the ingenuity of Andrew Jackson Higgins, an engineer born in Columbus and raised in Omaha. He designed the specialized landing crafts, Higgins Boats, used on D-Day to transport troops and vehicles to the beaches. President Eisenhower once called Higgins the man who won the war for us, due to the strategic importance of the boats he built for the military. Nebraskans have not let Higginss history-altering engineering feat go unnoticed. While teaching at Columbus High School, Colonel Jerry Meyer and his students spearheaded an effort to found a memorial to honor Higgins. Thanks to their initiative, Nebraskans can now visit the Higgins Memorial in Columbus. It features a life-sized replica of the Higgins Boat as well as memorials to the valorous men who rode it to battle. Sixty years ago, Major Dale R. Buis of Pender, deployed to Vietnam as a military advisor. Buis, the father of three young boys, had only been in the country two days when Vietcong guerillas ambushed the compound where he was staying. He died during the attackon July 8, 1959becoming one of the first casualties in the Vietnam War. In fact, Dale Buis is the very first name listed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, DC. For years, however, online databases mistakenly recorded Major Buis as being from Nevada. When Pat Schoenfelder of Imperial learned of the error she took action. She conducted research to verify his hometown, and then contacted database managers so that Major Buiss online profile could be corrected. Thanks to her efforts, Dale Buis is now appropriately remembered as a native son of Nebraska. Fifteen years ago, the 267th Ordnance Company of Nebraskas National Guard was stationed at Camp Speicher, north of Tikrit in Iraq. On July 11, 2004, Sergeant 1st Class Linda Tarango-Griess of Sutton and Sergeant Jeremy Fischer of Lincoln were in a convoy returning to base when their vehicle was struck by an explosive device. Both died from injuries sustained in the attack. Linda Tarango-Griess was the first woman of the Nebraska National Guard to be killed in action. Last week, I had the privilege of sending off and welcoming home a flight from Nebraska to Washington D.C. taken to honor Purple Heart recipientslike Tarango-Griess and Fischerwho served in Iraq or Afghanistan. Passengers on the flight were either veterans of those wars or Gold Star family members who had lost loved ones in the conflicts. They were able to visit the monuments, memorials, and sacred grounds of the Nations Capital thanks to the dedicated volunteerism of Bill and Evonne Williams. The couple from Omaha has now organized 13 honor flights for nearly 3,500 veterans. Bill and Evonne also initiated the creation of a photographic memorial, Remembering Our Fallen, to honor military members who have died since 9/11. Their idea to build a physical memorial originated after reading the story of a grief-stricken father who worried that his sons sacrifice would be forgotten. Moved by his concern, they pledged to do everything in their power to make sure the families of the fallen know their loved ones are remembered, appreciated, and honored. Today, I am profoundly grateful for the Nebraskans who have fought and died to secure our liberties. I am also proud that our states citizens actively cherish their memory. Nebraskans like Jerry, Pat, Bill, and Evonne exemplify the spirit of Memorial Day in how theyve honored our states fallen heroes. I encourage all Nebraskans to follow their lead by finding ways to pay respect to Nebraskas veterans, both past and present. If you have any thoughts you would like to share about how we can better honor our military veterans, I would like to hear them. Give my office a call at 402-471-2244 or email me atpete.ricketts@nebraska.gov. Pete Ricketts is the governor of Nebraska. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Two brothers shot earlier this month now face felony charges for breaking into a Tecumseh man's home wanting to beat him up. Kolton Bridgewater, 26, and Levi Bridgewater, 20, both stand accused of burglary and attempted second-degree assault. Kolton Bridgewater also faces a charge of terroristic threats; and Levi Bridgewater a charge of use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, according to court records. Both are from Brownville. Johnson County Sheriffs deputies arrested their father, Kenneth Bridgewater, on the night of the shooting. But he hasn't been charged. On Thursday, a day after appearing for his arraignment, Kolton Bridgewater posted bond. Levi Bridgewater hasn't yet been arrested on the warrant. In affidavits for their arrests, Nebraska State Patrol Investigator Neal Trantham said the brothers went to Raymond Brown's home shortly before 11 p.m. May 10 with the intent to assault him. Levi Bridgewater allegedly was armed with a knife. Trantham said Brown shot them both in self-defense after they broke into his home. According to a news release, the three previously had been co-workers. Kenneth Bridgewater went with his sons to the Browns' home, armed with a gun, but didn't go inside. His sons were flown to a Lincoln hospital to be treated for their injuries. Reach the writer at 402-473-7237 or lpilger@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSpilger. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 John Joseph Schmidt October 23, 1945-May 25, 2019 John Joseph Schmidt, 73, of Columbus, died Saturday, May 25, 2019, in Columbus. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 29, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, with the Rev. Ross Burkhalter and Rev. Del Lape concelebrating the Mass. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28, at McKown Funeral Home. There will be a 7 p.m. vigil service Tuesday, also at the funeral home. Visitation will continue from 8:30-10:30 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Interment will be in the All Saints Cemetery, with military honors by Hartman Post #84 American Legion Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers or plants, memorials may be made to be designated to the family's choice. John grew up in Columbus and attended St. Anthony grade school and junior high. He entered the United States Army at the age of 17. He spent the majority of his military time in Germany, which sparked his interest in the country and led to him taking several trips back in later years. He married Mary Ann Sumovich in 1967, and they made Columbus their home for 52 years. He worked for the City of Columbus for nearly 20 years. John worked at McKown Funeral Home, worked as a private investigator, and did bailiff work for the District Court. He was a lifetime member of St. Anthonys parish, former parish council member, former Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus, former commander with the DAV, and a member of the American Legion. Outside of work, John was a great resource to many because of his ability to fix anything. He was a man of many interests and talents. He was known for his very unique woodwork creations (many of which were donated) including items ranging from personalized walking sticks, intricate hand-carved furniture and clocks, to nine-foot realistic guitars, two of which have found their home at the Johnny Cash museum in Nashville, Tennessee. This meant a lot to John, having met Johnny Cash and being a lifelong fan. For the better part of Johns life, he found great joy in spending time on the river, whether mushroom hunting, three-wheeling or exploring. He loved all aspects of nature. Those that knew him best loved his sharp wit and unique sense of humor. John is survived by wife, Mary Ann Schmidt of Columbus; son, John B. (Rachael) Schmidt of Kansas City, Missouri; daughter, Sheila (John Novack) Schmidt of Big Lake, Minnesota; son, Rich (Adriene Welch) Schmidt of Columbus; son, Monty Schmidt of Columbus; daughter, Misty (Thad) Swanson of Minneapolis; four grandchildren: Casey Schmidt and Macy Williams of Kansas City, Justin and Brittany VanBuskirk of Minneapolis; three great-grandchildren; brother, Jim (Darlene) Schmidt of Kennard; brother, Richard Dick (Barbara) Schmidt of Lakeport, California. He is preceded in death by parents, Julius and Vera (Schefcick) Schmidt; sister, Jeannie Schmidt; brother, Jerome Schmidt in infancy. Remembrances can be sent at www.mckownfuneralhome.com. Gov. Pete Ricketts has officially signed the next two-year budget into law. This budget controls spending to deliver $550 million in direct property tax relief over the next two years," Ricketts said Monday, in a statement provided to The Columbus Telegram. "It also includes over $2 billion in state aid to K-12 education as well as new resources for public safety initiatives. The budget bills signed Monday include 293e, 294e, 295e, 296e, 297e, 298e, and 299e. The governor also signed the following bills in addition to the budget package: LB 300e, LB 300Ae (judges salaries for the biennium), LB 464e (claims bill), and LB 675e (TEEOSA change). A dozen senators voted against passing the mainline budget bill. Ricketts touted the budget's increase to the Property Tax Credit Fund, which brought the total to more than $500 million over the two years of the budget. The governor had proposed a 3.1 percent increase in spending, and the Appropriations Committee knocked that down slightly to a 2.9 percent increase. Our ongoing commitment to controlling spending helped the state do property tax relief this year, and has set the state up to expand relief in years to come, he said. University President Hank Bounds told Telegram sister paper the Lincoln Journal Star that Ricketts sent a strong message to the 52,000 students, their families and the people of Nebraska, with his signing of the budget, about the state's commitment to affordable, competitive higher education that grows the state's economy and quality of life. Lee Newspapers contributed to this report. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 It was a tragic Memorial Day weekend in the greater Columbus area with three fatalities occurring over the course of two days. Two Columbus men early Monday morning were pronounced dead at the scene of a single-vehicle crash occurring about 5 miles east of Monroe along Nebraska Highway 22, according to information released by the Platte County Sheriffs Office. The driver of the vehicle, 26-year-old Frank Brave Heart, was driving west on the highway in a 2002 Ford Explorer at about 2:15 a.m. when he lost control of the vehicle and went into a north ditch, striking a tree. The lone front-seat passenger was 26-year old Christian Schwager. Seat belts were in use by both occupants and there was heavy rain in the area at the time of the accident, according to the sheriffs office. The Platte County Sheriffs Office was assisted by the Monroe Fire and Rescue Department. Area resident Bobby Sporing during a Monday conversation with The Telegram said that she was awoken by the commotion the crash happened near the end of her driveway. We heard the boom and it woke us up, Sporing said. It was one of those blood-curdling sounds that you just dont want to wake up to It was not a good deal last night. Less than 24 hours prior on Sunday, 19-year-old Wayne resident Nicholas Rodriguez drowned while attempting to rescue a friend struggling in the waters along the Lake North/Lake Babcock waterway just north of Columbus. The incident happened about 10:30 a.m. and his body was recovered at approximately 5 p.m. from Lake Babcock that afternoon after an extensive search, according to the sheriffs office. Nearby witnesses were able to rescue the friend Rodriguez was attempting to save. The Platte County Sheriffs Office worked in collaboration with Columbus Fire and Rescue, the Platte County Sheriffs Office Dive Team, the Waterloo Fire and Rescue Department and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Sheriff's Office Lt. Kevin Schuller said that the waterway connecting Lake North and Lake Babcock has been the site of similar incidents throughout the years. Our last drowning, if I recall, was right there in the same area theres been a few, Schuller said. Its an area where people are always fishing right where the two lakes connect. Its basically a small area about 30-feet long where both waterways share the water its the only place People congregate there whether they are fishing or doing other activities. And for whatever reason, there have been incidents there in the past. Schuller said that the victim and his friend were walking along Lake Babcocks dividing wall when the friend slipped and fell into the water. And it wouldnt be something that would seem like that big of a deal, but there is a current in there and if youre not a very good swimmer, and not used to it, it definitely could catch you by surprise, so to speak, he said. All three fatalities remain under investigation by the Platte County Sheriffs Office. Sam Pimper is the news editor of The Columbus Telegram. Reach him via email at sam.pimper@lee.net. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 3 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. " " In an unprecedented joint statement, the U.S. and U.K. blame Russia for a global cyber attack. Bill Hinton/Getty Images Stories about Russian hackers have been in the news cycle for years. U.S. intelligence has ample information that Russians compromised voter registration systems in seven states before the 2016 election. And the Russian government has been accused of hacking the Democratic National Committee (DNC), giving them access to the DNC's database and emails. But now it looks like the handiwork of Russian hackers could be hitting a bit closer to home. Meaning your home. In an unprecedented combined statement released on April 16, 2018, the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team and the U.K.'s National Cyber Security Centre published a Technical Alert with some alarming allegations it. Advertisement About the Warning According to the alert, a joint investigation between the Department of Homeland Security, the FBI and the U.K.'s National Cyber Security Centre uncovered evidence that hackers sponsored by the Russian government have been infiltrating numerous devices connected to the internet since at least 2015. The hackers could be using these compromised devices to spy on communications or even plant the seeds for future sabotage of critical systems. So far, the hackers haven't targeted general purpose personal computers. Instead, the attacks focus on the machines that make communication across the internet possible. That includes routers, switches, firewalls and more. These are the components that guide information to where it needs to go across the internet. By taking over these components, Russian hackers can intercept messages or even pose as a trusted entity in what is called a "man in the middle" attack. There are a few reasons the hackers chose these specific types of hardware. One is that many organizations rely upon older routers and switches that no longer get security patches and updates or rely upon obsolete protocols. It's a daunting task to upgrade all the elements of a network infrastructure. Some organizations set low priorities for the basic components, like routers and switches, perhaps because they tend to be low maintenance and until there is an outright equipment failure they remain "good enough." Even routers and other network infrastructure that still gets updated patch support can be vulnerable if the operator (you) fails to change default passwords. Hackers frequently seek out lists of common login and password information used by manufacturers for their products. Many people won't take the extra step to change this default information when they install the hardware on their networks. Changing this password is like locking your front door while you know there are thieves outside who have a key to that lock. The smart thing to do is to change the locks on the door, i.e. change the password. Advertisement Ensuring Your Network Is Secure While there are many things large organizations, hardware manufacturers and Internet Service Providers can do to help mitigate this problem, there are only a few actions the average internet user can take to minimize the chances of being swept up in the attacks. For one thing, the only component you're likely to have direct access to as a consumer is a router. When you purchase a router, always update the default password to a new, strong password that you don't use for anything else. Another action you should take is to make sure your components, such as your modem and router, have the latest firmware patches. This isn't always easy to do. The Technical Alert urges ISPs to send out messages to customers whenever it becomes necessary to install a software patch on their devices. Otherwise, there's little the average person can do. The alert recommends that Internet Service Providers change their policies so that the ISP will only support hardware that meets current security standards. If a switch or router isn't capable of accepting a security update, the ISP should no longer support it. For some network administrators, this could mean replacing numerous network components to those capable of following encrypted and authenticated protocols. While the steps to mitigate the influence Russian hackers could have on internet infrastructure is laborious and potentially expensive, it's also imperative. Hackers could potentially cause enough damage to make the expense of updating networks pale in comparison. From espionage to blackmailing to sabotage, the consequences of allowing hackers to compromise these network components are dire. In the meantime, make sure your local router and modem passwords aren't set to the default and keep an eye out for emails that urge you to install updates. It could help prevent your network from becoming part of the problem. Advertisement Advertisement Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram Washington, D.C., May 28, 2019Pakistani authorities should immediately and unconditionally release Gohar Wazir, a reporter with private satellite TV station Khyber News, the Committee to Protect Journalists said today. Wazir was arrested by security officials in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, today after reporting on demonstrations of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM)a mass movement promoting the rights of the Pashtun peopleaccording to news reports. Yesterday, he interviewed Moshin Dawar, a prominent PTM leader who was elected to Pakistans National Assembly last year. Although PTM rallies have drawn huge crowds, news coverage has been scant, according to reports. Journalists who asked to remain anonymous due to security concerns told CPJ that the military has applied pressure not to report on the movement, which the military sees as a challenge to its authority. Gohar Wazir should not have to face arrest merely for doing the job of reporting the news, even reporting on controversial events such as protests by the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, said Steven Butler, CPJ Asia program coordinator. Restrictions on Pakistans media only serve to undermine the strength of Pakistans democracy. Wazir was arrested along with 21 other people under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, according to Samaa TV and a tweet by local watchdog group Pakistan Media Watch. The MPO allows for preventive detention for up to six months, according to a report by Human Rights Watch. CPJ has been unable to determine where Wazir is being held. The Pakhtun Journalists Association issued a statement on Facebook urging Wazirs release and calling the arrest an attack on journalism. On May 26, protesters clashed with the military in the region, leading to the deaths of at least three protesters, amidst conflicting accounts of the incident. An email seeking comment from Pakistans Ministry of Information was not immediately answered. Although the killing of journalists has declined in Pakistan in recent years, CPJ has documented a rising trend of censorship owing to pressure from the military. [EDITORS NOTE: The headline and photo caption have been updated to correct the location where the arrest took place.] Education advocates were at Hamilton Elementary School in Carlisle Tuesday morning to push for more access to high-quality, publicly funded pre-kindergarten programs. The Pre-K for PA Campaign released a report, Ready for Success: Kindergarten Teachers Support Investments in High-Quality Pre-K, which was based on findings of a survey conducted by the Pennsylvania State Education Association. Association treasurer Jeff Ney said the results of the report show that 96 percent of elementary school teachers agree that students who attend high-quality pre-K programs are ready for success in kindergarten, and that 98 percent agree that such programs are an important tool to help prepare at-risk children. Phrasing quality pre-K as an important tool was intentional in this survey, Ney said. Kindergarten teachers know and understand that a quality pre-K experience provides each child entering kindergarten with a growth mindset and a readiness to succeed. Their personal experiences mirror what researchers have uncovered: that children who attend high-quality pre-K have a solid foundation for learning, which promotes increased student growth and achievement. The report also included responses from kindergarten teachers who were surveyed. They said the top three skills learned in early learning programs that were the most important for incoming students were physical well-being and motor development, emotional development and social development. Students who attend high-quality pre-K programs come into kindergarten ready to succeed, said Miranda Clash, a kindergarten teacher at Hamilton. They have already practiced essential learning behaviors, know how to regulate their emotions, interact appropriately with peers, and have a solid foundation of language and background knowledge onto which they can add new learning. For students who have had a high-quality pre-K experience, I dont have to spend as much time teaching these prerequisites to academic learning. Though almost all teachers agree pre-K is important, advocates said the funding isnt there. According to the campaign, about 56 percent of eligible 3- and 4-year-olds do not have access to pre-K programming, and the campaign is calling for a $50 million increase in the state budget $40 million for Pre-K Counts and $10 million for Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program which could provide access for an additional 5,500 children in the state. Investments in high-quality pre-K have a significant return on investment for our children, schools and communities. However, the state is not investing enough to ensure access for the children who need it the most, said Kari King, president and CEO of Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children and founding member of the Pre-K for PA Campaign. The report said Pennsylvania ranks 18th of 30 states investing in high-quality pre-K, and Carlisle Area School District has 537 eligible children in its coverage area, but only 165 are enrolled. Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children said 19 pre-K classrooms in addition to the 10 already in Carlisle would be needed to cover all eligible children in the district. Love 2 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 One nurses support for a young mother changed the direction of the entire family. Cheryl Spicer, a Nurse-Family Partnership nurse in Harrisburg, worked with Allison Pierre through the partnership that assists first-time mothers from pregnancy through their childs second birthday. The nurses offer support for the mothers as they prepare for a healthy birth and guide the mothers in developing skills that foster growth for the mother and child in infancy. Through NFP, I have the privilege to meet and support mothers who often lack supportive relationships. Im in the position to empower them and assist them as they develop the skills and confidence they need to provide a better future for themselves and their child regardless of personal challenges or their circumstances, Spicer said. Pierre was 19 and pregnant with her first child when she met Spicer. Pierres partner was experiencing addiction and not providing the stability and support Pierre needed to have a healthy pregnancy. Pierre had dropped out of high school, but Spicer helped her set goals for her daughters development and encouraged her to finish school. She helped me create plans to meet those goals, and its because of her motivation that I am realizing my dream of becoming a registered nurseand one day I hope to pay it forward and become an NFP nurse, Pierre said. Q. How did each of you come to the Nurse-Family Partnership? A. Cheryl Spicer: One of my first passions in nursing was community health, which I discovered while attending East Carolina University School of Nursing. I had been a registered nurse for 21 years working in various settings when I discovered Nurse-Family Partnership. I was looking for a change in my nursing career when an advertisement for Nurse-Family Partnership caught my eye. I went to the Nurse-Family Partnership website and knew I had found what I was searching for. I was offered a position but was told I had to wait for funding to become available. After calling every week for six months, in July of 2006, I received a call with a start date for a job that would become my passion. Allison Pierre: I came to Nurse-Family Partnership at a very low time in my life. My best friends mother is a nurse through the organization and she referred me to her colleague, Cheryl, in my time of need. Q. What do you feel is the most important aspect of the program? A. Cheryl Spicer: I feel the most important aspect of the program is that it is a holistic, relationship-based, nurse-driven program. Nurse-Family Partnership nurses meet moms where they are: physically, mentally and emotionally. We identify strengths and assist them in setting and achieving goals. Our moms work very hard. They inspire me every day. Allison Pierre: I feel that the most important aspect of the program is the way it literally transforms lives and creates amazing futures for not only families, but their babies, too. The program helped me become financially stable so that I do not need government assistance, which is better for the economy. Q. Cheryl, what keeps you going in what must be difficult work? A. Cheryl Spicer: What keeps me going? It is a privilege to be welcomed into the homes of the families we serve. Witnessing moms and babies grow in their relationship and forming secure attachments brings me joy. Walking alongside new moms and offering guidance to help them be the best mom they can be brings me joy. This joy keeps me going. My Nurse-Family Partnership supervisor, Melissa Manning, also keeps me going. I meet with her every week, and she is able to provide support and guidance and always encourages self-care. She models the nonjudgmental essence needed to be a good Nurse-Family Partnership nurse. Q. Allison, how did Cheryl inspire your decision to become a registered nurse? A. Allison Pierre: Cheryl inspired me to get into nursing because she simply told me I had what it takes compassion, empathy and resilience. She told me that I would make a great nurse because of my personality. I admired her job and thought what better way to give back than by becoming a nurse myself and one day working for Nurse-Family Partnership. Q. Are there ways the public can support the Nurse-Family Partnership? A. Cheryl Spicer: The Nurse-Family Partnership serving Cumberland and Perry counties is fortunate to have UPMC Pinnacle as its implementing agency. Our site serves a five-county region (Cumberland, Perry, Dauphin, Lebanon and Franklin). We also have many programs throughout the state. If you know of a low-income woman pregnant with her first child, please encourage her to learn more about Nurse-Family Partnership by visiting nfpmoms.org, or calling/texting (844) 637-6667. But ultimately, the best way to help Nurse-Family Partnership is for members of the public to reach out to their local representatives and talk to them about why it is important to the women, children and families in our local community and state. These supporters should also mention the importance of maintaining the $13.1 million Nurse-Family Partnership line-item, and to consider supporting the proposed $5 million increase to evidence-based home visiting to help provide an additional 800 families with home visiting services. The public can also support our families by donating infant and toddler board books and looking for our events in the communities we serve. Allison Pierre: The public can support Nurse-Family Partnership by spreading the word about the program and reaching out to their local representatives to talk to them about Nurse-Family Partnership and why it is important to the women, children and families in the local community. Were currently advocating to maintain the $13.1 million Nurse-Family Partnership line-item in the Pennsylvania state budget, and have asked for consideration in supporting the proposed $5 million increase to evidence-based home visiting programs to help provide an additional 800 families with home visiting services. Email Tammie at tgitt@cumberlink.com. Follow her on Twitter @TammieGitt. 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 Salvation Army will hold its annual Civic Dinner on June 12 at Dickinson Colleges Holland Union Building. At the dinner, the Carlisle Salvation Army honors someone for their community service. Michael Pounder will receive the Carlisle Corps Distinguished Service Award. Pounder is being recognized for his commitment to the many programs for the disadvantaged that the Carlisle Salvation Army offers. He is involved in the Pathway of Hope Program, Genesis and Stuart House Programs and volunteers at My Brothers Table to feed the hungry. He also supports organizations such as Cumberland County Adult Reentry Program and Lancaster County Reentry Program. The annual Civic Dinner includes a social hour and silent auction beginning at 6 p.m. with a dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets for the dinner are $45. Tickets are available by calling the Salvation Army at 717-249-1411 by May 31. Email Tammie at tgitt@cumberlink.com. Follow her on Twitter @TammieGitt. 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. Lower Allen Township Police are looking for two people they say took a cart filled with $754.76 in unpaid items from the Walmart on Hartzdale Sentinel reporter Joseph Cress offers a daily digital glimpse back in Cumberland County history with help from our Newspapers.com archives: 10 Years Ago Carlisle Mayor Kirk Wilson reported that less than half of the $25,000 needed for the annual Fourth of July fireworks display has been raised. In other news, the JLG plant in Shippensburg announced it would layoff 208 workers by July 28. The plant manufactured aerial work platforms, telehandlers, stock pickers and personal portable lifts. Also, two teams of teachers and 14 teams of students participated in a dodgeball tournament at Eagle View Middle School to benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Email Joseph Cress at jcress@cumberlink.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. This week we have one of those rare occasions when government priorities and government funding match exactly. As Fox News reports, Loose change left at airports may be used to help fund border operations. If you need additional proof Washington, Inc. doesnt give a damn about stopping and reversing illegal immigration, this should do it. Maybe Trump will order the Pentagon to go through the seats looking for nickels after Nancy Pelosi commandeers a military jet to take her home on weekends. Pelosi, though isnt the problem. Shes doing what she promised her voters. The House isnt the problem. Even under the leadership of Paul RINO immigration bills were passed and forwarded to the Senate. The problem is the Senate. Even when Republicans controlled the presidency and both houses nothing was done. People are tired of an immigration policy that only works against citizens and the Chamber of Commerce conservatives who refuse to change it. Already Sen. Thom Tillis (RCarolina del Norte) has a primary opponent named Garland Tucker III who is running TV commercials. Sen. Susan Collins (RIntermittently) has a primary opponent, as does Sen. Lindsey Graham (RWeathervane). All fit Tucker Carlsons description of our ruling class, decadent and narcissistic. These primary opponents are a start, because without a change in the Senate, retaking the House and re-electing Trump will be as meaningless for border enforcement as it was in 2016. The only way for Trump to send a message that he demands cooperation from the Senate is if he personally defeats his main roadblock: Curator of the Senate Mitch McConnell. McConnell has treated Trump and his agenda with thinly disguised disdain since the election. McConnells claim to fame is mere longevity in office, as if he were a turtle only to be valued by how long he has been in existence. McConnell is completely undisturbed by the single most important issue facing the nation the approximately 30 million illegal aliens already living inside our borders. Instead of bucking the cheap labor lobby that supports the worlds first taxpayer-subsidized invasion, McConnell proudly introduces trivial legislation to raise the minimum age to buy tobacco to 21. Youth vaping is a public health crisis, McConnell announces while the real crisis is bussing the table in the restaurant where he eats. As long as McConnell is leading the Senate, Trumps immigration agenda and reducing the size of government is dead. (Although Mitch and Jared that negotiating fool might be able to work something out on keeping Mitchs wife as part of the cabinet during the second term, too.) The Curator is gearing up for his 2020 re-election by trumpeting his two biggest accomplishments: Acting as the Judicial Human Resources Dept. for the White House and increasing the national debt. Instead of tweeting about whatever has penetrated his thin skin this morning, President Trump should be lining up and funding a primary challenger for McConnell. Mitchs approval rating among Kentucky voters is what pollsters term underwater. Fifty-six percent disapprove of job his performance while only 33 percent approve. But wait until they find out about his get tough policy on Juul! Trump on the other hand is vastly more popular. His approval rating is 61 percent compared to a disapproval of 35 percent. Even in 2016 Trump was more popular. He carried Kentucky by 30 points, while McConnell two years before won by only 16. Challenging McConnell in the primary isnt exactly a suicide mission. His last challenger, Matt Bevin, is now the states governor. If Trump recruited a primary challenger and then put his charisma and his cash behind the challenger I believe the Mitch the Turtle would be soup. More important, it would send a message to the rest of the housebroken conservatives in the Senate that there are real costs to opposing the presidents agenda. And so what if the challenger loses? Could McConnell pass any less of Trumps immigration and border security legislation? How much more passive aggression does the Curator contain? Either Trump changes the composition of the Senate or his administration will have accomplished less than the Bush Interregnum. The only difference being Trumps was noisier. Michael Shannon is a commentator and public relations consultant, and is the author of A Conservative Christians Guidebook for Living in Secular Times. He can be reached at mandate.mmpr@gmail.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Government of India (GoI) has constituted a Tribunal for adjudicating ban on Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Key Highlights The Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal (ACM) B.S. Dhanoa visits Air Force Station in Bhisiana and Sarsawa to pay homage to the air warriors who made supreme sacrifice during Operation Safed Sagar at Kargil. Key Highlights Background: On 28 May 1999 the Indian Air Force lost a Mi-17 helicopter after successfully attacking the enemy in Drass sector (J&K). On this day 1999 Squadron Leader Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja who was at that time the Flight Commander of 17 Squadron laid down his life along with Squadron Leader R Pundhir, Flight Lieutenant S Muhilan, Sergeant R K Sahu and Sergeant PVNR Prasad who also died in action in that Mi-17 helicopter during the Kargil conflict. On 28 May 1999 the Indian Air Force lost a Mi-17 helicopter after successfully attacking the enemy in Drass sector (J&K). On this day 1999 who was at that time the Flight Commander of 17 Squadron laid down his life along with Squadron Leader R Pundhir, Flight Lieutenant S Muhilan, Sergeant R K Sahu and Sergeant PVNR Prasad who also died in action in that Mi-17 helicopter during the Kargil conflict. About: The Chief of the Air staff (CAS) B. S. Dhanoa paid tribute to Late Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja and other fallen heroes who lost their life 20 years back during the Kargil war. The Chief of the Air staff (CAS) B. S. Dhanoa paid tribute to Late Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja and other fallen heroes who lost their life 20 years back during the Kargil war. CAS B.S. Dhanoa flew the missing man formation flypast in a Mig-21 aircraft . He was accompanied by Air Marshal R Nambiar, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) Western Air Command in the missing man flypast organised at Air Force Station in Bhisiana in Bhatinda to honour the valour and supreme sacrifice of men killed in action during Operation Safed Sagar at Kargil, J&K. . He was accompanied by Air Marshal R Nambiar, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) Western Air Command in the missing man flypast organised at Air Force Station in Bhisiana in Bhatinda to honour the valour and supreme sacrifice of men killed in action during Operation Safed Sagar at Kargil, J&K. On 28 May the CAS visited Air Force Station Sarsawa and fly in a Mi-17 V5 Missing Man formation flypast to commemorate the Kargil martyrs. About The Missing Man formation It is an aerial salute accorded to honour the fallen comrades-in-arms. It is basically an Arrow Formation, with a gap between two aircraft in a way that the formation depicts the Missing Man. About Operation Safed Sagar (or Operation White Sea) Question: Regarding my posts about the terrible perversion of Torah and halacha that Rav Shmuel Kaminetsky has engineered with his prod... I asserted in my previous post that being a gadol is the result of being accepted and once accepted the gadol's authority is not from hi... It was claimed that Goren liberated the Kosel by convincing Motta Gur to violate his orders KA said He was part of it, and he convinced Mo... Important!! email - yadmoshe@gmail.com A popular summer destination for young adults in Madison County will likely be closed to the public this summer and perhaps even permanently if the owners fail to comply with the courts stipulations. Judge Wendy Wexler-Horn ordered an injunction stating that the Offsets be permanently closed to the public unless and until certain conditions are met. According to the judgment, the facts of the case are that Gary and Rebecca Henson have owned the land known as the Offsets since the early 1980s and since such time the Hensons have operated a commercial business charging people admission to swim in the abandoned quarry. The court document states that over the last 30 years at least nine individuals have died as a result of swimming on the property, most of whom died while jumping or falling from the high bluffs. On July 26, 1989, 16-year-old Mark Pogue died while swimming. Later that summer, on Sept. 2, 1989, 19-year-old Leonard Brand died after breaking his neck jumping into the water. On July 16, 1995, 20-year-old Ryan Graham died from injuries sustained while jumping into the water. On July 3, 1998, 16-year-old Sylvester Austin died while swimming. On Sept. 1, 2007, 20-year-old Michael Mattingly died from injuries sustained when he slipped from a rock bluff and fell into the water. On the following day, Sept. 2, 2007, 27-year-old Nicholas Kruz died from injuries sustained while jumping into the water. On July 18, 2015, 18-year-old Devron Looney died after jumping into the water. On July 4, 2018, 19-year-old Cole Duffell died while swimming there. And less than two weeks later, on Jul. 13, 2018, 21-year-old Safion Livingston died while swimming at the property. According to the judgement, despite all of these deaths, the Hensons do not carry liability insurance on the Offsets and do not have the assets to satisfy any judgments against them. According to the court document, if operations continue at the Offsets it is likely that the Hensons will face additional judgments against them in the future and the property itself is inadequate to satisfy the judgments. Evidence presented by the state and expert witness Michael Oostman showed that conditions at the Offsets are unreasonably dangerous and there is at present substantial risks of serious injuries and death to people using the property for swimming and diving. Oostman testified that dangers at the Offsets include a harsh impact of the water to the body after jumping from cliffs, loose terrain, a lack of institutional control over guests due to complete freedom of guests to jump into the water from anywhere around the lake. Oostman also testified that the presence of alcohol consumption renders guests less able to appreciate the risks and less able to physically handle the stress of such an environment. The expert also testified that warnings given to guests are insufficient in the following ways: The warnings are not clear enough to warn guests of the dangers. The warnings are not close enough to potential dangers to effect guest behavior. The warnings are not explicit enough about the dangers. The warnings fail to adequately instruct guests as to safe means of engaging in activities, particularly in jumping off the high cliffs. Oostman continued to testify that the defendants failed make improvements in these risks by failing to provide staff supervision of jumping, failing to provide lifeguards, failing to have a rescue plan in place, and failing to have proper safety equipment (backboards, rescue tubes and ventilation equipment). The court document states that the defendants advertise and invite members of the public to pay a fee to jump from the high bluffs and that impacting water after falling 40 feet is dangerous and creates a risk of injury that increases the risk of drowning. In her judgment, Judge Horn stated that signs that say swim at your own risk and do not flip from high bluffs are inadequate to warn guests of the dangers associated with the Offsets. The court also found that the defendants have no personnel trained or certified in lifesaving or water rescue stationed on the property. The court found that the defendants had no personnel who were solely responsible for patrolling the facility to insure guests were following rules, had the physical capacity to swim/dive safely, and were not creating unnecessary risk to themselves or other guests. The court noted that ring buoys are the only equipment on site designed for water rescue, however, the court found there were no trained safety personnel to use them. In addition, the court found that the defendants had no formal plans in place to respond to water emergencies other than calling 911 and waiting for help to arrive. However, given the time it takes for emergency personnel to reach the Offsets, there was insufficient time to respond to a struggling swimmer in order to prevent drowning, serious physical injury or death. The court also found that guests were permitted to jump from any of the bluffs making it difficult to monitor behavior and look for signs of distress, increasing the odds that a guest may inadvertently collide with another guest while jumping and seriously injure both guests. Judge Horn also found that the Hensons did not attempt to instruct guests on the safe methods for jumping from cliffs other than stating not to perform flips from the highest bluffs. The court also found guests were allowed to bring limitless alcohol onto the property and that excessive alcohol consumption has in fact contributed to several deaths. In addition, the defendants did not require the use of life jackets by guests at any time while on the property. There are also multiple sinkholes and air shafts into which guests could fall and be injured on the property. Judge Horn stated that despite nine deaths occurring on the property by patrons using the facility as intended, the defendants had made at most minor attempts to reduce the risks of serious physical injury or death. Based on the preceding facts of the case, Judge Horn ordered that the Offsets be "permanently closed" to the public "unless and until" every one of the following 13 conditions are met: 1) Establish an emergency response plan by a water safety expert and conduct training with staff prior to the start of each summer and at least monthly during the swimming season. 2) Jumping will only be permitted from designated jumping and diving areas. 3) Each jumping area will be staffed by a certified lifeguard. 4) Each designated jumping area will have signage warning and advising users that previous patrons have died as a result of jumping off the cliffs and have pictograph instructions on safe diving entry technique. 5) The lifeguard at each jumping area will direct patrons to the signage, instruct patrons how to jump from the heights to minimize the risk of serious physical injury or death, only permit jumping feet first into the water, only permit patrons to enter the water after ensuring that the entry point is clear of other swimmers. 6) An additional certified lifeguard will be stationed in the water in a boat. 7) Lifeguards will be equipped with rescue tubes equipped with lanyards equal to the depth of the water in the swimming zones. 8) Lifeguards s will be equipped with hip packs that contain gloves and masks suitable for the provision of CPR. 9) A trauma bag will be maintained on the property containing an AED in proper working order and an emergency oxygen system capable of administering oxygen to an adult or child, and a bag valve mask. The bag will be able to be promptly delivered to the scene of any emergency event in or near the water. 10) At least one backboard with head immobilization device shall be kept so that it is easily retrievable for emergency events. 11) Flotation devices that can be thrown to swimmers in distress shall be kept at each designated jump area and at least every 100 feet around the perimeter of the water of the Offsets. 12) All guests (except certified scuba divers equipped with scuba diving equipment) will be required to wear appropriately fitting, U.S. Coastguard approved life jackets when entering the water. 13) Sinkholes will be fenced off or otherwise maintained so that patrons cannot fall into them. The Offsets Facebook page posted on Monday morning that they regretted they would not be able to open for the Memorial Day weekend due to what they called government over reach. The post continued to say that the court should not be allowed to dictate a private business and that the family simply doesnt have the resources to fight the state. The company has asked that patrons who support the opening of the Offsets to contact the Missouri Attorney Generals Office or the office of Gov. Mike Parson to express their support. The post from the company stresses that they believe the closure is temporary and that they will reopen as soon as the injunction is lifted. The Hensons have not responded to phone calls and Facebook messages requesting a statement to the Daily Journal regarding the injunction for inclusion in this story. Matt McFarland is a reporter for the Daily Journal. He can be reached at 573-518-3616, or at mmcfarland@dailyjournalonline.com. Love 8 Funny 5 Wow 2 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. DEAR ABBY: I was married to my husband for 29 years. We were separated off and on more than 10 of those years. We were both in other relationships but would reconnect for months and sometimes years. Then, because our lifestyles are so different, we would split up again. I divorced him two years ago, but we see each other off and on as friends. I haven't been in a relationship since our divorce because I still love him. He couldn't stop the street life, and I got tired of living on the edge with him. He's now in church, off drugs. He has gained back some weight and looks like the man I first fell in love with. I tell him every time I see him that I still love him, but he doesn't believe me and acts like he hates me. We have a 27-year-old daughter he loves and sees. I think of the good times we had together day and night. I can't sleep sometimes and feel so unhappy without him. Abby, what can I do to move on? -- LONELY AND LOST IN MARYLAND DEAR LONELY AND LOST: You may love the person your ex-husband was in the beginning, but you divorced him for good reasons. Chief among them, he became someone else because of his addiction and his choices. He may blame you for divorcing him, but if you hadn't done it, he probably would not have straightened out. Sometimes love is not enough, particularly when it's a one-way street. It is time to quit looking backward and concentrate on your future. See your ex as little as possible, and allow yourself to grieve the lost relationship for a specific period of time. When that time period is over, concentrate on meeting new people and cultivating new interests. If necessary, talking with a therapist may be helpful, and I hope you will consider it. There is life after this, but only if you will allow it. DEAR ABBY: My best friend of 50 years was recently diagnosed with early stages of Alzheimer's. Because her memory was beginning to slip, my husband and I moved her in with us. She pays us rent and contributes to meals. The problem is, she has told friends that because she pays rent she shouldn't have to help around the house. My husband and I both work. It would be nice if she would cook us dinner occasionally or do the dishes. I have asked, but she always has an excuse. I don't know how to tell her we are not a bed and breakfast. She has the ability to help. Advice? -- HELPER NEEDS HELP, TOO DEAR HELPER: I hope you realize that as your friend's dementia progresses she will no longer be able to help around the house, and it could actually be dangerous for her to cook. It would be better for all concerned if her family would start looking at dementia care facilities for her, THE EARLIER THE BETTER so she will have time to adjust. Some of them offer graduated levels of care to meet the patient's increasing needs. Please consider it. DEAR ABBY: We have a large break room at work where we gather to have lunch. Usually there are six to eight nurses gathering at one time. Sometimes we bring lunch from home; other times we order out individually. One co-worker constantly helps herself to others' food without it being offered. Example: If you order fries with your lunch, she will reach over and grab some off your plate without asking. It makes the rest of us uncomfortable. We feel it is rude and unsanitary. How do we politely ask her to stop doing this? -- HUNGRY NURSES DEAR HUNGRY: Politely ask? Politely TELL the woman you don't want her removing food from your plates without permission. And if she does it again, use your fork to "discourage" her, and I'll bet it won't happen again. DEAR ABBY: I have been dating a wonderful man for a little more than two years. We are both divorced and have children. Mine are 20 and 15; his are 12 and 10. We are very close, all of our kids get along, all the exes get along, etc. I love him. Despite thinking I'd never feel this way again, it has happened. He treats me SO well -- he is absolutely amazing to me. We go places, do things -- dinners, family events, etc. I have never felt so loved and valued. My issue is, he has not said the words "I love you" yet. We have discussed it a few times, but he is terrified to say it because of his divorce. I don't want to pressure him, but how long should I wait for him to say it before moving on? As a side note, it took him forever to say it to his now ex-wife when they were dating. -- LOVING HIM DEAR LOVING: Moving on? This man shows you by his actions the way he feels about you, and you admit that you have never felt so loved and valued. It takes no effort to say, "I love you." Many people have been known to say it without meaning it. That said, after two years it would not be pushy to ask him what the future looks like from his perspective. DEAR ABBY: My boyfriend, "Hal," and I have been dating for a year and a half, living together for six months. I'm afraid he feels emasculated. Because I make more money than he does, a lot of the responsibility for paying the bills lands on me. We try to split things down the middle, but recent complications with his job have meant it doesn't always work out that way. I love Hal. I know he's the one I want to spend the rest of my life with. I don't want money to be a dividing force, but I don't know what to say to make him feel better. This has been the elephant in the room for some time. Hal helps out with cooking and housework, and because of that, I don't mind putting a little more into the bills. I do not want this to be an issue further down the road. Any advice is appreciated. -- STUCK ON THIS IN VIRGINIA DEAR STUCK: The problem with elephants in the room is, the longer they are ignored, the larger the herd becomes. It's amazing that two important subjects -- sex and finances -- are such touchy ones to discuss. Choose a time when you and Hal are relaxed, and then bring up your concerns. Tell him how much you appreciate him in your life and the efforts he makes to make life easier for you, and that you don't want money issues to cause problems between the two of you. He may need to hear you say it. Then encourage him to express his feelings the way you have. DEAR ABBY: My husband and I were invited by some friends to meet for dinner. We arrived first; they showed up several minutes later. During the meal, the wife said, "I always scan the restaurant to see if there's anyone else here I know." After we finished dinner and the checks were paid, the couple got up and left the table. We didn't know where they had gone. I put my coat on and we were leaving, when the wife, who was now sitting down at another table with another couple, stopped us to introduce us to them. I think they were terribly rude. I feel they should have waited and walked out with us, saying hello as they passed the table of their other friends. This isn't the first time she has done this. Is there a way to politely tell her how rude it is? My husband still wants to meet them for meals, but I am really struggling with it. -- DITCHED DINER IN SOUTH CAROLINA DEAR DITCHED: If your dinner companion had perfect manners, rather than disappear after the check was paid, she would have said, "I see the Joneses over there. We want to go over and say hello, so come with us or go on ahead." Because you have dined together before, you know this is her pattern. I do not think it is anything to ruin a friendship over. DEAR ABBY: I've recently started seeing someone, and we have shared a wealth of information about ourselves with each other. When I asked him his last name, he said it was "Erickson." When I asked him if he had a middle name, he responded that he didn't. Soon after, I saw his driver's license. It had a completely different last name from the one he gave me, and it turns out he does have a middle name after all. Now I'm starting to question everything he told me, and I'm afraid he may have lied about even bigger things. What reason would he possibly have to lie about such a simple thing? And how should I confront him about it? -- JUST PLAIN CONFUSED IN GEORGIA DEAR CONFUSED: The reason someone would give false information is usually because the person has something to hide. Unless "Mr. Erickson" is in witness protection, my guess is he is married or has a criminal record he doesn't want you to discover. Rather than confront him and be lied to again, run in the opposite direction and cease any further contact with him! DEAR ABBY: I am an avid fisherman with limited boating knowledge. Recently, a friend bought an older used boat that has questionable integrity. He keeps inviting me to go out on it with him, and I'm running out of excuses not to. The real reason is my friend is inexperienced and the boat is unreliable. I don't want to be stuck out in the bay in a boat we can't fix. What's the best way to handle this? -- LEERY FISHERMAN IN TEXAS DEAR LEERY: The way to approach it would be to tell your friend the truth. Ask if he has taken a boating safety course, and if the answer is no, suggest he do it -- or that you do it together. As to the integrity of the vessel, ask your friend if the boat was inspected at the time of purchase, and if it wasn't, urge him -- for everyone's safety -- to have it done. DEAR ABBY: My daughter has two children, a 7-year-old boy and a girl who is 4. They were at an event with some of her co-workers the other day. Everyone was talking to the younger child, telling her how cute she was and ignoring the older one. It was like he was invisible. He was so deflated. I remember this happening with my girls when they were little. People always seem to gravitate to the little ones and pay no attention to the older ones. It has always bothered me. So, people, please be mindful of all the children. They are all precious. -- BOTHERED GRANDMA DEAR BOTHERED: You're right, this happens all too often. In a case like this, all it would have taken would have been for someone to have complimented your daughter on her son's behavior and said within earshot of the boy how lucky the little one was to have such a "good boy" for an older brother. I hope you spoke up. It takes only a moment to say something nice to someone of any age who needs the attention. DEAR ABBY: My daughter and her boyfriend have been together for four years. Despite being almost 30, he is very immature and constantly distracted by either his phone or his video games. Abby, he travels with his PlayStation everywhere he goes. When he comes into our house, he sets up his console in the living room, puts on headphones and plays games all day and night. If the family asks to use the TV for a few hours, he will sit on the sofa and take a nap or pull out his phone and continue gaming. I know nothing more about him than I did the first month I met him. He is rude, boorish, self-centered and has a criminal record (drugs). They live in another state, and for my daughter's sake, I try to accommodate him. When I asked for them to "visit us, not our TV," she became very defensive. Is this the new norm? Must I provide a TV in their room for when they stay? When they went to visit his family who live near us, he took the system to their house for the three-hour visit. How do I deal with this addiction? My daughter now wants to bring him along while we have our mother/daughter lunch and manicures. It's like he's 3 and has to tag along. He has no friends. When she goes out for a night with her girlfriends, we are expected to "baby-sit." I've never encountered anything like this. Please advise me. -- DONE MOTHERING IN PENNSYLVANIA DEAR DONE: I'll try, but first you will have to admit your part in creating this problem. You have to learn to say no to your daughter and her "boy"friend. If you want to watch television for a few hours during their visit, remember it's your home and you don't have to apologize for it. If you want a mother/daughter lunch and manicures, and she wants to drag him along, say, "No, this is our mother/daughter time. An hour or so alone with you is not too much to ask." The solution to your problem is to stop allowing your daughter -- and her socially inadequate boyfriend -- to dictate what's happening under your roof and in your life. Until you put your foot down, nothing will change. DEAR ABBY: By coincidence, I have a niece and nephew who will be graduating at the same time this spring. My nephew is getting a degree from a four-year college. My niece is getting a beautician's license from a high school/trade school. She has no plans to attend college. I will be giving them both graduation gifts, but should the amount be based on their level of education, or the fact that they have both completed their educations? I don't want my niece to feel slighted. She chose a profession she loves but does not require further education. I also don't want my nephew to feel slighted because he worked longer at far greater expense. -- UNSURE IN THE EAST DEAR UNSURE: If you are worried that your niece and nephew will compare your gifts, give each the same amount. What these gifts memorialize is not the money that was spent on their educations, but rather that they have both attained the level of education for which they were working. DEAR ABBY: When I was in my teens, and even into my 20s and 30s, I was a Plain Jane. I had little self-confidence. But strangely, I'm one of those people who has gotten better looking as I've aged. Now in my 50s, I am better looking than many women my age or even younger. Men definitely notice me, and I love it. My problem is, I'm now obsessed with my appearance. I constantly worry that I'll lose my looks. I have even considered cosmetic surgery. I don't want to be the shallow person I see I'm becoming. What can I do? -- LATE BLOOMER DEAR LATE BLOOMER: There's a saying, "You can fool Mother Nature, but you can't fool Father Time." What it boils down to is, time takes its toll on everyone. It isn't shallow to have the feelings you are experiencing. But please remember that beauty is more than what's on the surface. Perhaps it's time to start concentrating on qualities that accentuate your inner rather than external beauty -- kindness, warmth, intelligence, generosity, an appreciation for the value of others -- because charm lasts longer than beauty. This is not to say I don't appreciate the value of cosmetic surgery, which can do wonders for a person's sagging ego. But your appearance should not be the focus of your life because, frankly, it isn't healthy. DEAR ABBY: I am writing in response to the letter from "Military Service Marker" you printed on Dec. 22. When my uncle, a military veteran, passed away, he was without a military service marker, too. His two kids (my cousins) didn't bother to obtain one, probably out of sheer laziness. Feeling that it was important, I took the initiative and contacted the VA myself. I obtained the record of his honorable discharge (form DD 214) and his death certificate. I filled out the appropriate paperwork and my uncle got the marker to which he was entitled free of charge. It was delivered directly to the cemetery, and the only cost involved was the installation. It was well worth it, and I have never asked my cousins for a dime. I felt proud about having done something for a deserving vet! -- BILL B. IN MISSOURI DEAR BILL: My thanks to you and to the scores of other readers who wrote to share this information with me. It is important to know that relatives of deceased military veterans can receive these military markers at no cost. Starting the process is as easy as contacting the cemetery, the VA at www.cem.va.gov/hmm/, or a local VFW or American Legion post for assistance. DEAR ABBY: I need advice on whether to contact an old friend who backstabbed me years ago with my former business partner. I'm trying to get back into the field, and this old "friend" is doing well now. He has a lot of contacts that could help me start my own company. I'm not sure if I should contact him because of what he did to me. Should I? -- UNCERTAIN IN CALIFORNIA DEAR UNCERTAIN: Frankly, I think it would be a waste of time. Leopards don't usually change their spots. If you expect someone who backstabbed you once in business to become generous and helpful, you are dreaming. Find another way to network that he can't "taint," because if he can, he will. DEAR ABBY: I am almost 62 and struggling to get through the day at work. It's not because of the work itself, but I am extremely unhappy in the work environment. I have been here more than 20 years, and I have a real problem with the work ethic of the younger employees. They come in to work anywhere from a half-hour to two hours late. One of them takes hourlong breaks, two-hour lunches and then leaves early. Another comes to work and complains nonstop about her drive, her ex and all her aches and pains. (She just turned 40.) I go home every night frustrated and so stressed out I snap at my poor husband. I really want to retire. It wouldn't be a financial burden, although we would have to cut back on a little spending. My husband won't offer an opinion, but I know I'd be much happier and healthier if I did. Any advice? -- STRESSED AND TIRED DEAR STRESSED: You might be happier and healthier if, rather than retire early, you talked to a licensed mental health professional about how to manage your stress. You can't control the behavior (or misbehavior) of your younger co-workers. That's your boss's responsibility. If their lack of punctuality and poor attendance doesn't bother your employer, you should not be letting it affect you. And as to the woman who complains about her aches, her pains and her ex -- why are you listening to that garbage? You have only a few more years until you reach an age at which you can retire with all the benefits you have earned -- and without having to cut back. Please consider what I have said and ride it out. DEAR ABBY: I recently had a phone conversation with a cousin who lives on the other side of the country. We talk once a month. She has always been judgmental and negative about our cousins, aunts, uncles, etc., who -- for the most part -- she rarely communicates with. In the past, when she would put them down, I'd cut the conversation short because I didn't want to listen. During our last chat, she started in on my brother. That's when I lost it. I gave her a piece of my mind and hung up. Since then, she has texted and called a few times, but I haven't responded. I feel bad for what happened, but at the same time, I refuse to listen to her talk badly about and judge other family members. How should I handle this? Should I respond to her? In one of her texts she said she "didn't mean to upset me," but I don't consider that an apology. -- HATES JUDGMENT IN OHIO DEAR HATES JUDGMENT: Yes, you should respond to your cousin. She needs to understand that you are changing the rules regarding further conversations with her. Explain that it has always made you uncomfortable when she said unkind, judgmental things about family members, and that when she started in on your brother, you finally reached your limit. Tell her that in the future when you talk, it must be about positive things and not family members. After that, the ball will be in her court. See if she follows through. DEAR ABBY: I have a son from a previous relationship, and have been in a relationship with a man I'll call Bryan for a year. Not long ago, Bryan confided to me that he and his brother had been molested by a female relative. I don't know her. I have only met his parents. This female relative has been asking about my son on social media because she has seen him in pictures with Bryan's family. I want to tell her to back off, but so far, I have held off. I'm afraid if I do, I will cause problems because his parents don't know what I know. My protective instinct has become very alert. I may be wrong, but I feel like she sees my son as a future target. What should I do? -- MAMA BEAR DEAR MAMA BEAR: Listen to your protective instinct. Talk with Bryan and tell him the woman's questions are of concern to you, that you don't want her to have any information about or contact with your child, and then make sure your wishes are respected. If she receives any message to back off, it should come from him, not you. DEAR ABBY: On behalf of all new moms, please help with this question. Why does every woman in the world, it seems, feel entitled to ask new moms if they are breastfeeding their babies? How should new moms respond politely to this question? If you say yes, you may or may not be lying. If you say no, you will be judged. If you give an evasive answer, people will assume you are not and you will be judged as well. It seems to me that all substances excreted by the body should be off limits in social situations. -- MY BUSINESS IN TEXAS DEAR MY BUSINESS: Judgmental people can get to you only if you allow it. While there are valid reasons why babies should be breastfed, it isn't always possible, and women should not be quizzed by strangers about whether they are. My mother used to advise readers who were put off by prying questions to say, "If you will forgive me for not answering that question, I'll forgive you for asking." Even though you asked for a polite retort, in a situation like this, MY response would be, "If that were any of your business, you would already know the answer!" 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 Thank you for reading! 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This weather- and seismology observatory and forecasting arm of the government has a storied past, beginning with its establishment in Kolkata in 1875 with Henry Blanford as its first director. The IMD boasts of such big names as Sir Gilbert Walker and many Indians post-independence like Drs S K Banerji and P Koteswaram as its Directors. Most Indians, however, have probably never heard of INCOIS, the organisation that does for the oceans what IMD has done (and continues to do) over land: monsoon and cyclone predictions, weather and climate predictions, and climate projections. INCOIS is short for the Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services. The organisation was set up in 1998 under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) after an effort by Dr A Narendra Nath at the Department of Defence known as the PFZ or the Potential Fisheries Zone. INCOIS began operationalising sea surface temperature (SST) and PFZ forecasts immediately following its establishment with Dr K Radhakrishnan as its first director. The vision for INCOIS was "to emerge as a knowledge and information technology enterprise for the oceanic realm". Its mission has been to provide ocean data, information and advisory services to society, industry, government and scientific community through sustained ocean observations and constant improvements through systematic and focused research. India has a coastline of over 7500 kilometres with an area of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of over 2 million sq. km. The coastlines support more than 4 million fisherfolks with an estimated value of the output at about 40,000 crores. The long Indian coastline is also subject to natural hazards from waves, swells and cyclones to tsunamis. Naval operations and fisheries in the open ocean also require a suite of monitoring and forecasting efforts to protect the nations shores and resources. INCOISs wide spectrum of activities now extends far beyond just predicting SST and PFZ. The status and trends of living resources in oceans must be monitored and understood to predict PFZ and developing adaptation and mitigation strategies for the future. PFZ activities focus on this important goal. Sea surface temperature (SST) is a critical parameter to keep track of before and during monsoons for cyclone potential, heat waves, etc. INCOIS is also tasked with providing early warnings for tsunamis and storm surges. A nations is only as resilient to natural hazards as the success of such early warning systems. Ocean and coastal state forecasting is a broad term that includes cyclones, waves, eddies, rings, fronts, filaments, currents, and sea levels in addition to SSTs. Numerous economic, defence, shipping and recreational activities, as well as search and rescue operations, depend on ocean weather or ocean state. IMD issues cyclone track forecasts, the waves, storm surges, inundation and swells generated by regional cyclones. But it also needs to track other far-away ocean processes from oceans as far away from the mainland as the Southern Ocean for accurate models by INCOIS that could go a long way in saving citizens lives, property and infrastructure. Such forecast systems also require extensive observational systems that include deploying ships routinely all the way to the Southern Ocean as well as moored buoys, autonomous floats, satellites, and coastal assets such as radars and Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers. INCOIS carries out very high-resolution atmospheric model simulations daily to produce accurate winds needed at minutes to hours for its various prediction systems. INCOIS also manages the modelling and prediction efforts for coral reefs and chlorophyll mapping to monitor and assess ecosystem health. This task also involves measuring trace metal fluxes of aluminium, iron, magnesium, titanium and barium which are indicators of the ecosystem health as well as the export of carbon to the deep ocean. The reversing monsoon circulation makes India a unique land-ocean continuum where the carbon fluxes between the ocean and atmosphere, land and atmosphere, as well as land and ocean must all be understood to keep an accurate track of the carbon cycle, emissions and how they evolution in the future. A stellar example of the value INCOIS provides is the impact of PFZ on the fish catch and its monetary value. Experiments with fishermen who received PFZ forecasts and those who didnt have shown that fish catch can be four times higher when PFZ forecast information is available (for some perspective, that's 7200 Kgs vs 1800 kgs) and the value of the fish catch also can be increased similarly (Rs 3,60,000 vs Rs 90,000). Today, INCOIS is called upon to track coastal pollution, oil spills, wave power potential, as well as coastal erosion alongside ocean monitoring. It employs many different platforms to disseminate its products, such as Village Information Centers, All India Radio, Hello FM, websites, TV channels, SMS and email. The operational Center for Ocean State Forecasting at INCOIS resembles a control station of space operations at the Indian Space Research Organisation. All students, teachers, and citizens ought to visit INCOIS at Pragati Nagar, Hyderabad to feel the excitement of this invaluable operation, which works 24 x 7 in service of nations ocean resources, hazards, and defence. It also happens that this army of ocean and coastal forecasters offer plenty of exciting opportunities in education, employment and research. 2019. Firstpost Gujarat: For Gujarat fishermen pollution is the major problem by Annalisa Merelli May 28,2019 | Source: Quartz India Fishing isnt bad business in Porbandar, along the coast of Gujarat, Indias westernmost state. It provides employment for half a million fishermen, who manage to earn up to Rs 20,000 a month (about $290), or twice the countrys average per capita income. Boat captains can make around Rs 30,000. Indias industrialization and liberalization have not challenged the livelihoods of Porbandars fishermen. In other parts of the country, local fishermen have all but been put out of business by larger organizations. But every year, an estimated 200 Porbandar fishermen end up in Pakistani jails, charged by the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) with having crossed into Pakistans waters. The fishermen maintain most of arrests occur in international waters, or in the so-called No Fishing Zone. As of Apr, 25, 111 fishermen remain in Pakistani jails... For them, the main culprit of their predicament isnt Pakistanits pollution. A lack of enforcement of existing laws on dumping pollutants into the sea have pushed them farther out into international waters to begin with. This is a problem that is for the government of India, not Pakistan, to fix. Fifteen to 20 years ago, fishermen would get a good catch within 20 to 50 km of Porbandar, explains Jadavbhai K. Postariya, president of the Shree Porbandar Machhimar Boat Association (SPMBA) of Porbandar. A five-day trip was enough to come home with a full load, about eight to 10 tonnes of fish. Now fishermen need to be out in the water for close to a month, and go as far as 250 km from Porbandar. Pollution that has expanded with industrialization, and fish simply no longer gets close to the coast, he says. Industries coming up on the coast of Gujaratfrom Surat to Ankeshwar, from Kodinar to Porbandarhave been ignoring waste-disposal regulations, releasing untreated water into the sea. Marine vegetation has been destroyed, says Postariya, so fish doesnt come near the coast to breathe. This forces the fishermen to go further up along the Kutch coast, into international waters, where they are an easy target for Pakistani authorities. It is not always easy for fishing boats to have a precise understanding of where they are on the map, despite GPS systems. The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is working a pilot phase of a two-way communications system, called NavIC, which would help fishermen check their position with the coastal guards support. Occasionally, fishermen from Pakistan are arrested and held in India. However, Pakistani fishermen dont need to move that far away from their coasts to be able to catch fish, because their waters are far less polluted. According to international maritime law, fishermen arrested for crossing into foreign waters are to be released within 90 days. Delays are routine, however, and strained relations between India and Pakistan dont help. Crewstypically seven or eight fishermen, plus the captainoften end up spending about a year in Pakistani jails. While they are held, the government of Gujarat pays fishemens families 300 rupees per daythough it is not enough to make up for the lost income. On top of it, the boats are lost: Until 2003, says Postariya, the PMSA used to return the boats once it released the crews, but now holds onto them, selling them at local auctions. For the owners (typically, not part of the crew), it can amount to a loss of about 50 lakh rupees (about $72,000) per boat, for which they get no compensation. Kerala: To impose trawl ban from midnight on Jun 9 to protect marine resources May 28,2019 | Source: United News of India Kerala Fisheries Minister J Mercykutty Amma has said a 52-day trawl ban will be imposed from midnight on June 9 in the State coastal area to protect marine resources during monsoon season. The Minister also directed the concerned district collectors to convene a meeting of boat owners, representatives of fishermen and other stake holders on May 29 and 30 in this regard. This was decided after a meeting chaired by the Minister in this regard on Tuesday evening. Though Kerala had been imposing 47-day trawl ban from 1994, it extended the ban to 52 days from 2008 onwards. The meeting also decided to issue biometric identity cards to all 1,87,000 fishermen to ensure security of coastal areas in the State. The decision to issue biometric identity cards was taken in the wake of intelligence reports that ISIS terrorists from Sri Lanka are planning terrorist attacks in Kerala. The meeting also directed boat owners to ensure boats reach coast before June 8 and boats from other states are advised to leave Kerala coast before June nine. United News of India Customs officers at Balis Ngurah Rai Airport arrested 2 Thai nationals for attempting to smuggle a total of 1.08 kg of crystal methamphetamine inside their stomach. The two men, who authorities have identified as Prakob Seetasang and Radisson Phenlamat, allegedly swallowed the drugs to hide them from customs authorities, according to a report by Kumparan. Ngurah Rai International Airport Customs chief, Himawan Indarjano, said they were arrested on May 13, after customs officers grew suspicious when they went through airport security. Himawan said Seetasang and Phenlamat had their belongings promptly checked by authorities, followed by a body and X-ray scan at a local hospital; the latter showed that their digestive tracts contained suspicious foreign objects. After an attempt to remove those objects from their system, we found that they were narcotics that theyd hidden through swallowing, Himawan said, as quoted in the Kumparan report. The customs chief added that Prakob and Seetasang swallowed 49 and 51 plastic packages containing crystal methamphetamine known locally as shabu respectively. This method is considered extreme, as it endangers the smuggler and is also difficult to detect, Himawan said. Police said the crystal meth was estimated to have a market value of IDR 1.48 billion (USD 102,818). Authorities suspected that both Prakob and Seetasang may have previously smuggled drugs to Hong Kong, and said that they were paid around IDR 6.9 million (USD 479) for the attempt in Bali. Their handler provided them with a hotel and accommodation, and their passports show that they have been to Hong Kong and several other ASEAN countries. They may have [smuggled methamphetamine] with the same method, Nyoman Sebudi, an official from the Bali Province Narcotics Agency (BNNP) said, as quoted by Kumparan. Under Indonesias notoriously strict drug laws, the alleged drug smugglers face a maximum sentence of capital punishment and a maximum fine of IDR 10 billion (USD 694,755). Mexico: Man dies on plane after ingesting 246 cocaine bags A Japanese man has died on a flight from Mexico City after ingesting 246 bags of cocaine. The flight, bound for Japan's Narita International Airport, had to make an emergency landing in Mexico's Sonora state after he began to have seizures. Authorities said the man, identified as Udo N, died of a cerebral edema caused by a drug overdose. The passenger transferred to the flight after starting his journey in the Colombian capital Bogota. According to a statement by Sonora's attorney general, the bags - measuring 2.5cm long and 1cm wide - were found in his stomach and intestines during the autopsy. The remaining 198 passengers aboard were able to continue their journey after the emergency landing in the city of Hermosillo. Mexico's federal authorities will take over the investigation. | 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 coconuts.co, Staff, May 27, 2019: BBC News, Staff, May 28, 2019 SINGAPORE: A Nigerian man facing the gallows for importing drugs into Singapore eight years ago was spared death on Monday (May 27) after the Court of Appeal acquitted him of his capital charge. Three judges found that the prosecution had failed to establish that Adili Chibuike Ejike knew that there were drugs in his suitcase when he entered Singapore on Nov 13, 2011. Adili was 28 when he was caught with two packets wrapped in tape in his suitcase at Changi Airport Terminal 3. He had arrived in Singapore from Lagos, Nigeria via Doha, Qatar. The two packets were identified after his suitcase was placed through an X-ray machine. During the scan, an image of darker density was seen on one side of the case. A physical search yielded nothing incriminating, but the case was taken to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority Baggage Office where the packets were found hidden under the inner lining of the suitcase. The contents of the packets were found to be methamphetamine, also known as Ice. Adili was arrested and in June 2016 convicted of importing 1.961kg of meth under the Misuse of Drugs Act. He was sentenced to death about a year later by trial judge Kan Ting Chiu, but appealed against his conviction and sentence. According to court documents, Adili had been jobless in Nigeria after his business failed. He approached an acquaintance in Nigeria for help and that person agreed to give Adili a sum of money if he delivered a suitcase to an unspecified person in Singapore. Adili then applied for his first passport in 2011 and travelled to Singapore with the suitcase, which was handed to him by a childhood friend who had been working with the acquaintance. During the trial, Adili had maintained that he did not know that the meth bundles were in his suitcase. In one of his statements, he had said: "Somebody gave those substance [sic] to me. I did not know what it was. If I knew what they were, I would not have accepted to carry those things." However, the trial judge had rejected his evidence, finding Adili to be an unreliable witness as there were several inconsistencies between his oral testimony and investigation statements. Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon, along with Appeal Judges Andrew Phang and Judith Prakash, said in their decision that three elements had to be proven for the offence of importation. First, Adili must have been in possession of the drugs. Second, he must have had knowledge of the nature of the drugs, and third, the drugs must have been brought intentionally into Singapore without prior authorisation. The central issue was whether Adili was in possession of the meth, said the court. The element of possession required not just proof of physical possession, but also an element of knowledge. A person who is not aware that an item - which turns out to be a controlled drug - is in his possession cannot be said, in a legal sense, to be in possession of that item, the court found. The court found that Adili had not been wilfully blind to the existence of the drugs in his suitcase. This was because it would not have been possible for Adili to have discovered the drug bundles, which were discovered only after the inner lining of the suitcase was cut open. He also could not have found out about the drugs by asking the people who had handed him the suitcase in Nigeria, since they were intent on keeping the truth from him, and would not have told him about the hidden drug bundles even if he had asked, said the judges. Adili, who was represented by lawyer Mohamed Muzzamil Mohamed, cried in court after he was acquitted. Chief Justice Menon said the appeal highlights "how important it is that the prosecution and the defence (and, indeed, the courts) remain alert to the precise effect and implications of conceding particular facts as to what the accused person did or did not know". "We appreciate that this is by no means an easy and straightforward matter, and, in fairness to the judge, he was not helped in the discharge of this difficult task by the fact that the defence misunderstood the requirements of the element of possession and therefore wrongly conceded the fact of possession; while the prosecution proceeded on the basis that the appellant did not actually know of the existence of the drugs, before then seeking to have that very fact presumed to be true," he said. "Had the parties properly set out their respective cases at the trial below, it would have been clear that what was in issue was the fact of possession, and that given the prosecutions concession that the appellant did not actually know of that fact, that fact could only be established by proof beyond reasonable doubt that the appellant had been willfully blind to the existence of the drugs." | 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 An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Thursday sentenced 2 Lashkar-e-Jhangvi* militants to death in an eight-year-old case of a lawyers killing in a sectarian attack outside a former judges residence. The ATC-VI judge awarded capital punishment to Jameel Ahmed and Muneer Ahmed after finding them guilty of killing the lawyer, Zain-ul-Abideen. The convicted men were also sentenced to 10-year imprisonment for an encounter with the police. Zain, 30, was shot by 3 men in a Suzuki Cultus when he was parking his car outside the house of a former judge of the Sindh High Court, Zawar Hussain Jafferi, a friend of his father, in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 5 on November 4, 2011. After the shots were fired, Ali Hassan, a guard of the former judge, rushed out of the bungalow and saw that Zain was in a pool of blood and the assailants were fleeing. The guard opened fire on the car of the assailants. In the meantime, the assailants car collided with a rickshaw, which made them abandon their car and run to escape arrests. A mobile van of the Gulshan-e-Iqbal police station, which happened to be in the area at the time and had been alerted by the gunshots, headed for the scene of the crime and signalled the assailants to surrender. Upon seeing the police mobile, the assailants opened fire on the police van. The police returned fire and arrested 2 of the suspects while 1 of them managed to flee. The police seized three TT pistols and one Kalashnikov rifle found on them. The lawyer was hit by 8 bullets. He was shifted to Aga Khan University Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The body was later shifted to the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre for medico-legal formalities. According to the police, Zain had gone to the former judges house to take him to a mosque for Juma prayers. As he reached the house, Zain asked the guard to inform the judge about his arrival. Just as the judge and his guard were coming out of the house, they heard the gunshots. The ATC judge observed that the prosecution successfully established its case against the accused beyond any shadow of doubt. The FIR of the incident was registered under the sections 302 (premeditated murder), 324 (attempting to murder), 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty) and 34 (common intention) of the Pakistan Penal Code 1860 read with the Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997 at the Gulshan-e-Iqbal police station. * The Lashkar-e-Jhangvi or "Army of Jhangvi", is a Sunni supremacist and jihadist militant organisation based in Afghanistan. An offshoot of anti-Shia political party Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan, the LeJ was founded by former SSP activists Riaz Basra, Malik Ishaq, Akram Lahori, and Ghulam Rasool Shah. -- Wikipedia | 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 thenews.com.pk, Staff, May 27, 2019 Ray D. Williamson was described as a typical young man for his generation. He attended the University of Oregon for one year, and then flew a B-26 in the Army Air Corps, crashing once during training just a mile after take-off. Williamson sustained a broken finger in that accident, but wasnt as lucky when his plane was shot down in action over France on Nov. 5, 1943, during World War II. He was 22-years-old. He could have come home and raised a family and lived in the mid-valley, said Randy Martinak, President of the Linn County Veterans Memorial. Thats what were here to honor. Martinak provided the in memoriam portion of Mondays Memorial Day service at Timber-Linn Memorial Park in Albany. The event was hosted by his veterans group and drew approximately 70 residents and veterans. Keynote speaker Judge James C. Egan, chief judge of the Oregon Court of Appeals, talked about the past: about his service in the Marine Corps Reserve, the Greatest Generation, the Forgotten Generation, the Lost Generation and then, about the future and what he called the Mighty Generation. They are serving longer in fewer numbers than in any generation in our history, he said of soldiers serving in current conflicts over the last 16 years. Egan said he knew soldiers who had served five tours of duty. According to the Department of Defense, there are currently 2.15 million active service members in more than 160 countries. Since 2006, more than 15,000 active duty personnel and mobilized reservists have died while serving. Egan asked those gathered on Monday morning to support five key programs for veterans, including the G.I. Bill, the Veterans Re-employment Act, veteran health care, homelessness and suicide prevention. According to the January 2018 point in time count a one-night event that utilizes volunteers to count homeless individuals within their cities there were just over 37,000 homeless veterans nationwide. The most recent report from the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2018 noted that approximately 20 veterans a day commit suicide. We have reared a generation of men and women who have known nothing but war, Egan said. Those in Linn County who have died while serving are memorialized, their names etched into stone bricks in walls throughout the Timber-Linn Memorial. After Mondays event, attendees lingered at the walls, some remembering family members, others looking for one name in particular. According to Martinak, when the walls were created, the veterans group reached out to state officials for a list of service people from Linn County who had died in action. We got a letter back from Mr. Mark Hatfield that said there was no list, Martinak said. Soldiers werent listed by the county they resided in, he said, so they went out and made their own list. They had public meetings, instead, and was asking veterans if they knew of other veterans from Linn who had died, he said. One name that didnt come up in that conversation was Ray D. Williamson, because years later Matrinak got a call from his niece wanting to know why her uncle's name wasn't included on the wall. The call sent Martinak on a journey to find the Brownsville natives history and, eventually, add his name to the wall. When you hear Taps today, Martinak said, Say a prayer for Ray D. Williamson. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sometimes, even for members of the armed forces it can take time to fully understand the meaning of Memorial Day. For U.S. Navy ROTC Cmdr. Timothy Reidy, despite long service on nuclear submarines, that moment came during planning work in Kabul, Afghanistan. Reidy, the keynote speaker at Mondays observances at the Benton County Veterans Memorial, told the audience of approximately 300 that all of the coalition nations put up flags at the Camp Eggers installation where he was based. Whenever a service member of any coalition member died in the line of duty, that nations flag was lowered to half-staff. When I was there in 2010 and 2011 one or more of those flags would be in mourning almost every day, Reidy said. Today, all of those who are assembled here are affected by those who fought, toiled and sacrificed. Their numbers will never go down, and they will never be diminished. Its a day that all of those who sacrificed have given all of us. Lets celebrate and remember. The event at the Oregon National Guard Armory, now in its 21st year, offered a new element, a tribute to Gold Star families. Members of four such families were on hand to be honored. It was one of two observances held in Corvallis on Monday. World War II Navy veteran Harry Lagerstedt, a pharmacists mate on the USS General Anderson, received the flag of honor. Three other WWII veterans were on hand 10 days before the 75th anniversary of D-Day. The event received a flyover from a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter and continues to be watched over by a giant American flag flapping in the breeze at the top of a Corvallis Fire Department ladder truck. It was cloudy at the start of the event, but by the end of its 90 minutes on the south lawn of the Armory, large patches of blue sky had poked through and temperatures were in the mid-60s. Crystal Lake It was mild and cloudy at 10 a.m. when observances sponsored by American Legion Post 11 got underway at Crystal Lake Cemetery. Corvallis Mayor Biff Traber was the featured speaker, noting three key elements to Memorial Day observances. First, we must remember them, Traber said. Second, we must honor that sacrifice, And third, I pray to God for the grace to live up to the commitment of what they did. Traber also represented the city among those offering floral tributes at the close of the ceremony. Other groups offering tributes included the Benton County Historical Society, the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion and Masonic lodges. General tributes were offered for those who gave their lives, starting with the Revolutionary War and ending with the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Event organizer Nicky Jones also spoke, noting the importance of early-blooming poppies to memorial observances in other countries as well as the United States. Readings of General John Logans order that started Memorial Day in 1868 and Lincolns Gettysburg Address also were featured, with the Corvallis Community Band, under the direction of Steve Matthes, providing patriotic tunes and service songs. Traber was one of at least a handful of individuals who attend both the Crystal Lake and Armory events. Contact reporter James Day at jim.day@gazettetimes.com or 541-758-9542. Follow at Twitter.com/jameshday or gazettetimes.com/blogs/jim-day. 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. March 11, 1933 May 22, 2019 Robert Curteman, loving husband, father and grandfather went to be with the Lord on May 22, 2019. He was born to Robert V and Maxine in Borger Texas during the Great Depression and dust bowl. He joined older sisters Pearlie Mae and Rose Marie. The family moved to Oregon when Robert was ten and settled in the Hood River area. As a young man Robert had various jobs including telephone lineman, spotter for The Dallas dam project, and shipyard welder. He later became a dealer for The Oregonian and subsequently The Salem Statesman. He also owned and operated Curts Home Repair. His favorite job however was driving taxi and loved telling stories about his many adventures. He met Marilyn Collins at church and was immediately smitten with the pastors daughter. They were married in 1956 and raised their three boys Alan, Ron and Eric in Corvallis. He was predeceased by his sister Pearlie Mae; brother Donald and grandson Nathaniel. He is survived by his wife Marilyn; sons Alan (Connie); Ron (Nadine); Eric (Tina) and 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. A suspect in a Sweet Home homicide that occurred on Friday was arrested by the Oregon State Police in the Sisters area on Sunday, according to a Sweet Home Police Department news release. Page Lee Butterfield, 25, has been lodged in the Linn County Jail on charges of murder, attempted murder, felon in possession of a firearm and unlawful use of a motor vehicle, the news release states. The investigation is still ongoing. The news release states that Butterfield was arrested at about 5:45 p.m. on Sunday after he fled on foot. The homicide occurred early Friday morning. The Sweet Home Police Department received a report at about 2:32 a.m. Friday that two subjects had been shot in the 500 block of Surrey Lane in Sweet Home. Officers and deputies from the Linn County Sheriffs Office responded to the call. Corey Burdick, 43, of Sweet Home, was pronounced dead at the scene. Ervin Larry Smith, 65, of Sweet Home, also was the victim of a gunshot wound and was transported to a local hospital. The incident occurred in and around a travel trailer occupied by Smith, according to the news release. After identifying Butterfield as a suspect, authorities received a report that he had stolen a red 2008 Ford Edge from an acquaintance in Albany, the news release states. The Sweet Home Police Department was assisted in the investigation by the Linn County Major Crimes Team, which consists of members of LCSO, the SHPD, Oregon State Police, the Lebanon Police Department, the Albany Police Department and the Linn County District Attorneys Office. Those with information about the case should call Detective Cyndi Pichardo of the Sweet Home Police Department at 541-367-5181. Kyle Odegard can be reached at kyle.odegard@lee.net, 541-812-6077 or via Twitter @KyleOdegard. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 6 Angry 6 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. We suppose we should be grateful that the Oregon Legislature has even acknowledged the slow-motion crisis that is the Public Employees Retirement System. The problem is that the action the Legislature is primed to take this session in the form of Senate Bill 1049 is basically the same strategy it's used for decades: kicking the can down the road. Even state Sen. Sara Gelser of Corvallis, who is gaining a reputation this session for unusually blunt talk, recognized the problem: She was one of five Democrats who voted against the bill, which passed on a 16-12 vote. (The mid-valley's other senator, Republican Fred Girod of Stayton, was one of three Republicans who voted for it; he called it "the hardest vote of our lives.") To be fair, there is a hard part of Senate Bill 1049, and it's going to be hard for members of the House of Representatives when they take up the measure: The bill proposes redirecting a portion of the retirement contributions employees currently make to a supplemental 401(k)-like savings plan. Under the provisions of the bill, some of those contributions 2.5 percent of pay for employees hired before Aug. 28, 2003, and 0.75 percent for employees hired after would go into an account that would support pension benefits. By reducing the amount of money going into the supplementary retirement accounts, the plan would reduce employees' overall retirement benefits by 1 to 2 percent of pay, according to The Oregonian's Ted Sickinger, whose reporting on PERS continues to be essential. That might not seem like a lot, but as Sickinger noted, many public employees say they're underpaid today, and there's some merit to that argument. And public employee unions are bitterly opposed to these provisions in Senate Bill 1049, so voting for it did require some political courage on the part of senators. But here's the problem with the bill: It doesn't put much of a dent in the $27 billion unfunded liability currently stalking the state's pension system. And, in fact, some 75 percent of its cost savings (estimated at about $1.2 billion to $1.8 billion in the 2021-23 budget cycle) come from extending the minimum payment schedule on the deficit by eight to 10 years. Gelser didn't mince words: We are pushing this cost off to future legislatures, to other Oregonians hoping that at some point in the future we will come back and find something that is politically feasible, she said during debate on the measure. That doesnt make sense to me because that is how we got to this place right now." If the bill passes the House, and is signed by Gov. Kate Brown, taxpayers won't pay off the PERS deficit until the 2041-43 budget cycle, as opposed to paying it off by 2035. But that relies on a pair of questionable assumptions. First, it assumes that the system continues to generate its average rates of return on investments, but that's an area in which the system has struggled in the past. (To be fair, it often has been saddled with unrealistic rates of returns in an attempt to make the books look a little better.) The second assumption is even more questionable: A prolonged economic downturn could play havoc with these plans. And one thing is for sure: Our extended economic expansion will not endure forever. In fact, some economists (including some who work for the state) say it could come as early as next year. We can't say when the downturn will occur. But you can be sure it will come, Part of the reasoning behind Senate Bill 1049 is to help ensure that the revenue headed to Oregon's K-12 school districts thanks to a new tax on businesses won't be swallowed up by increasing PERS premiums. The bill will help prevent that. But legislators are fooling themselves if they think this is the last word on PERS reform. (mm) Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Brain stimulation enhances visual learning speed and efficiency Practice results in better learning. Consider learning a musical instrument, for example: the more one practices, the better one will be able to learn to play. The same holds true for cognition and visual perception: with practice, a person can learn to see better--and this is the case for both healthy adults and patients who experience vision loss because of a traumatic brain injury or stroke. The problem with learning, however, is that it often takes a lot of training. Finding the time can be especially difficult for patients with brain injuries who may, for instance, need to re-train their brains to learn to process visual cues. But what if this learning process could be accelerated? That's what an international collaboration of researchers set out to determine. Teams members included University of Rochester researchers Duje Tadin, a professor of brain and cognitive sciences, and Krystel Huxlin, the James V. Aquavella, M.D. Professor in Ophthalmology at the University's Flaum Eye Institute, and Lorella Battelli, group leader at the Italian Institute of Technology and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. Motivated by emerging evidence that brain stimulation might aid learning, Tadin and Huxlin collaborated with researchers at the Italian Institute of Technology to study how different types of non-invasive brain stimulation affect visual perceptual learning and retention in both healthy individuals and those with brain damage. Their results, published in a paper in the Journal of Neuroscience, could lead to enhanced learning efficacy for both populations and improved vision recovery for cortically blind patients. ENHANCING LEARNING WITH BRAIN STIMULATION Learning is difficult and often takes a long time, Tadin says, "because after early childhood our brains become less plastic." The brain's ability to change and reorganize itself decreases as a person ages, so learning new tasks, or re-learning tasks after experiencing a brain injury, becomes more challenging. To test if and how visual perceptual learning might be accelerated, researchers presented study participants with a computer-based task. Participants were shown clouds of dots and were asked to determine which way the dots moved across the computer screen. The task measured the participants' motion integration threshold; motion perception is important in enabling people to see movement and to avoid or interact with moving objects. Participants were then asked to perform the task while sub-groups were given different types of brain stimulations, each involving a non-invasive electrical current applied over the visual cortex. The researchers found that one particular type of stimulation, called transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS), had remarkable effects on improving participants' motion integration thresholds when they performed the task. "All groups of participants got better at the dot motion task with practice, but the group that also trained with tRNS improved twice as much and was able to learn the motion task better than other groups," Tadin says. Surprisingly, the researchers also found that when they re-tested the participants six months later, the boosts in performance were still there: the participants in the tRNS group had retained what they had learned and were still able to do better on the motion task compared to the groups that were given other stimulation techniques or training alone. 'SOMETHING WE'VE NEVER SEEN IN THIS PATIENT POPULATION' Tadin, Huxlin, and Battelli then extended their findings to patients who had suffered a stroke or other traumatic brain injury that affected their visual cortex, rendering them partially blind. Huxlin had previously developed an eye-training system to assist stroke patients with recovering vision. The system includes a computer-based device that delivers a set of exercises to stimulate the undamaged portions of the visual cortical system. Through this visual training, the undamaged areas learn to process visual information that would normally be processed by the damaged parts. Working with participants who had experienced traumatic brain injuries, the researchers coupled Huxlin's visual training therapy and tRNS applied to both damaged and undamaged parts of the patients' brains. These participants, too, experienced improvement in visual processing and function after only 10 days. "This fast improvement is something we've never seen in this patient population," Huxlin says. The research offers promise for overcoming key hurdles in vision therapy for patients who have experienced a stroke or traumatic brain injury. Re-learning visual perception lost because of neurological damage typically requires months of training. Moreover, it's unclear how long the recovered abilities are retained once the therapy has ended. "The beauty of this combined therapy is the very short training," Battelli says. "When you work with stroke patients you quickly realize that there is a lot of fluctuation in their ability to stay on task. Thus, training that is short and effective is a big advantage." But, while the two-pronged approach could lead to more efficient therapies, it's less clear exactly why the approach works. That will be the focus of future research, Tadin says. "It appears that tRNS helps put the brain in a more plastic state, which makes it more amendable to training-induced change, or learning. What we hope to learn with future work is why this happens." ### This story has been published on: 2019-05-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. wellesenterprises/iStock(NEW YORK) -- Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has proposed to merge with fellow automaker Renault, the company announced in a press release Monday. Fiat Chrysler said the idea to combine came after "initial operational discussions between the two companies to identify products and geographies where they could collaborate, particularly as they develop and commercialize new technologies." Under the proposed merger, ownership of the combined business would be split down the middle, with 50 percent each going to shareholders of FCA and Groupe Renault, according to Fiat Chrysler. The board, meanwhile, "would initially be composed of 11 members, with the majority being independent and with equal representation of four members each for both FCA and Groupe Renault, as well as one nominee from Nissan," the automaker noted. The merger would not result in any plant closures, according to Fiat Chrysler. "The proposed combination would create a global automaker, preeminent in terms of revenue, volumes, profitability and technology, benefitting the companies respective shareholders and stakeholders," Fiat Chrysler said in its press release. "The combined business would sell approximately 8.7 million vehicles annually, would be a world leader in EV technologies, premium brands, SUVs, pickup trucks and light commercial vehicles and would have a broader and more balanced global presence than either company on a standalone basis." While the merger is still subject to approval by the boards of both companies, should it be completed, it would create the worlds third largest automaker. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Guess which party is havin' a meetin' After the North Carolina Republican Party got caught trying to steal the NC-09 House seat last November, the election of far right Trumpist sociopath, Mark Harris was invalidated and a special election called for September 10. Citizens of a district going from Charlotte to Fayetteville will have had no representation in Congress for nearly a year. The Democrat in the race is, politically, a worthless Blue Dog, Dan McCready and his GOP opponent, Dan Bishop, is even worse-- a right-wing psychopath who made a name for himself as author of the legislation to deny transgender children bathrooms. There are only 13 Republican women in the House, a shockingly low number likely to bear some of the responsibility for the output of such a horrifying GOP agenda, even more extreme than normal. Women have been encouraged to run in open-seat primaries and against Democrats, weakly by the NRCC and strongly by Elise Stefanik' and her pro-women leadership initiative E-PAC. [Spoiler: last cycle, Stefanik raised money by screaming about electing women-- for example, $10,000 each from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, UPS, Goldman Sachs, the Laborers Union, Ernst & Young-- but in the end she contributed to 54 right-wing men and just 20 women. She's a phony; keep reading.] When it came time to sign up for the NC-09 race, 4 women qualified as candidates. The votes of all 4 combined didn't add up to the transgender bathroom bill guy. Transgender Bathroom Bill Guy- 14,178 (47.7%) Leigh Thomas Brown- 2,624 (8.8%) Stevie Rivenbark- 892 (3.0%) Fern Shubert- 433 (1.5%) Kathie Day- 190 (0.6%) Two other crazy right-wing lunatics, Stony Rushing (5,820 votes) and Matthew Ridenhour (5,065 votes) also finished significantly ahead of Brown. The biggest outlay of outside money ($1.3 million) was spent on behalf of Brown by the National Association of Realtors-- with this ad -- but to no avail. The ad was too positive and uplifting, not what Republican primary voters expect to hear in North Carolina. They were more interested in Dan Bishop's negative ugly messaging against AOC and socialism and his image as someone for trans-fats and against transgender students. This is the ad the Club for Growth, which was backing Stony Rushing, ran to smear Brown: Did the NRCC or Stefanik rush to her defense? Not a chance. On Sunday Laura Barron-Lopez and Mealnie Zanona, reporting for Politico wrote that "Before Leigh Brown ran for a vacant House seat in North Carolina earlier this year, she got plenty of encouragement from Republicans in Washington eager to grow the ranks of GOP women in Congress. Then Brown jumped into a crowded Republican primary-- and the people who had given her hope were nowhere to be found. Among those who disappeared, she said, was Rep. Elise Stefanik, who launched an initiative this year to elect more Republican women." That's a little frustrating to have initial conversations and then follow up and be ghosted, Brown said in an interview with Politico. I put my real estate business on hold. I've dinged my own reputation in order to put myself forward as a public servant, and then you find out exactly how lonely it is to run for office. Stefanik acknowledged Browns account during a brief exchange in the Capitol last week but declined to elaborate. The Republican Party has ramped up its efforts to recruit female candidates for the 2020 election, following the brutal midterm that decimated the ranks of GOP women. But Browns experience highlights an enduring challenge for the party: translating widespread concern about the dearth of women in the House Republican Conference into significant campaign support and, ultimately, victories by female candidates. GOP consultants and candidates acknowledge their recruitment and resources lag far behind Democrats. And no centralized group exists to provide hiring advice, social media guidance, press training, or messaging tactics to candidates. Democrats, on the other hand, have the behemoth EMILYs List network, as well as groups focused on recruiting immigrants, women of color, female veterans and more. The support structure needs to be more than the idea that you can get some PAC dollars from random PACs out there, Brown said. I didn't know how to hire. I'm an outsider to this. Republicans are not blind to the problem. A growing number of outside GOP groups are dedicated to boosting female candidates since the House GOPs official campaign arm doesnt play in primaries. Winning for Women launched a new super PAC in response to the devastating losses Republicans suffered in 2018. And after watching her party swear in a 29-member class of House freshmen that included 28 men, Stefanik repurposed her leadership PAC, known as E-PAC, to focus on backing women in primaries. She told Politico at the time that we are at a crisis level for GOP women. But neither Stefanik nor Winning for Women supported Brown, who faced nine other Republicans in the North Carolina race-- including three other women, each of whom finished with fewer than a thousand votes. The National Association of Realtors threw $1.3 million behind Brown as she presented a more moderate tone than her conservative opponents, and View PAC, a group focused on electing more GOP women since 1997, endorsed her. Brown also spoke to Winning for Women before she filed and received strong encouragement. But once she announced her candidacy, she never heard from them again. Winning for Womens super PAC said it has limited resources and stresses candidate viability. ...[A] number of Washington Republicans, including Stefanik and Winning for Women, have coalesced around a different female candidate in another special North Carolina race this year: Joan Perry. Perrys success in an upcoming July 9 runoff will be the first real test of Republicans new efforts to propel female candidates through primaries. But Perry begins the race at a disadvantage: She finished with 15 percent of the vote in the April primary, behind the first-place candidate, Greg Murphy, who earned 23 percent. If Perry fails, it will highlight the limits of Republicans cash-only strategy-- and amplify the partys woman problem heading into 2020. [It will also highlight how bad GOP recruiting is when the best woman they could find is so obviously unsuited for Congress and who couldn't come up with a better ad than this pathetic attempt to run against AOC and Bernie. Has anyone asked her how she feels about the total abortion bans in Alabama, Georgia and Missouri?] Donors are taking it seriously. Outside groups are taking this seriously. The party is taking it seriously, said Olivia Perez-Cubas, a spokeswoman for the Winning for Women Action Fund. It would be awesome if the first election after the midterms, Republican voters chose a woman. It would send a strong message. Indeed, Republican leaders have made replenishing their ranks of female lawmakers a top priority in 2020. The issue could take on even greater urgency if Rep. Liz Cheney, the No. 3 Republican in the House, decides to run for an open Senate seat in Wyoming. The partys leader, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA), has already contributed to New York state Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis, who is running to unseat freshman Democratic Rep. Max Rose-- even though the rest of the GOP field has yet to take shape. Note: Michael "Mikey Suits" Grimm Michael "Mikey Suits" Grimm is expected to run , win the primary and lose the general.] ...[A]ccording to recent data collected by The Associated Press, just 38 of 172 declared Republican House challengers for the 2020 elections were women, or around 1 in 5. That compares with 84 of 222 declared House Democratic challengers, nearly 2 in 5. Part of the problem, critics say, is that there is little concert between the groups set up to help Republican women. And they limit where they get involved to vacant, open Republican-leaning seats or swing districts currently held by Democrats-- while deliberately shying away from backing challengers to male incumbents. ...The key to getting Republicans to commit to a cohesive effort to boost women candidates isnt just convincing them that its good for the partys image, but that women will make better candidates in general elections against Democrats, VIEW PACs Conway said. "People need to put their thumbs on the scale during the primary to make the nominee be the person most likely to be able to win in November, Conway said. And the Republicans have not done enough of that. "The key to getting Republicans to commit to a cohesive effort to boost women candidates isnt just convincing them that its good for the partys image, but that women will make better candidates in general elections against Democrats." Yes, but that will never happen inside a party that seems to think that a way one women is a good strategy to turn out their base voters. Maybe not passing abortion bans with no exceptions for rape or incest in every state that Republicans control would be good messaging too? AstraZeneca has pledged to expand in Vietnam with a $220 million investment. Photo by Reuters/Phil Noble Leading Swedish pharmaceutical firm AstraZeneca will invest $220 million to expand its presence in the country. The investment was announced in Stockholm Monday during Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phucs official visit to Sweden. The firm, in Vietnam for 25 years, will invest in expanding and improving its services and products, creating more local jobs, including 500 in biomedical sciences and medical affairs. It targets becoming a top pharmaceutical firm in Vietnam in reducing the ratio of people with non-communicable diseases (NCD). NCDs like cancer and heart-related diseases, kill 318,000 people each year in Vietnam, or 72 percent of total deaths by diseases, according to the World Health Organization. The firm plans to use part of its investment to enhance the health of young Vietnamese. It plans to educate 46,000 students in 27 schools and universities on NCDs like diabetes and cancer. AstraZeneca will continue to drive the development of biomedical science and innovation in Vietnam through clinical research, and data from these research programs will enable future medicines to better address the needs of Vietnamese patients, said Leif Johansson, chairman of AstraZeneca. The firm has previously worked with the Vietnamese government on various projects. It has invested $20 million in establishing 132 research sites nationwide. Most build-transfer public projects in Vietnam are awarded without open bidding. Photo by VnExpress/Ba Do Lawmakers have expressed concern that most build-transfer projects are awarded without open bidding, leading to losses for the state budget. The issue of BT projects came up in the National Assembly (NA) on Monday when members discussed implementation of the laws on land planning and administration since the Land Law came into effect in 2013. A report to the house said 22 provinces and cities have adopted the BT model, and many more such projects are planned. Most BT projects in Vietnam involve private contractors taking on infrastructure construction projects in exchange for the rights to use one or multiple land plots as payment. But there are issues such as inadequacies in determining how much land should be handed over to investors and their value, the report said. Vu Hong Thanh, head of the NA's Economic Committee, said: "Most BT projects have investors chosen by authorities. The payment made to them in the form of land without auctioning the land is not in line with the 2013 Land Law and is a loophole that could lead to losses for the state budget." Thach Phuoc Binh, a deputy from the southern province of Tra Vinh, said while the BT model, commonly known in Vietnam as 'an exchange of land for infrastructure', offers benefits such as quick development of economic, social and environmental infrastructure without relying on public funds, its drawbacks still outnumber benefits. "Many projects fall behind schedule and see their costs balloon. There are projects in which companies take possession of lands and divide them into plots for sale and ignore the infrastructure they are supposed to build for the government. These issues arise from the fact the legal framework for BT projects is still inadequate." There are many regulations governing BT projects in several legal documents, but they overlap and contain loopholes, he said. For instance, the 2013 Land Law only has regulations for the government transferring land management rights to investors for carrying out projects, but there are no regulations on how to transfer land or value it, Binh pointed out. Another example highlighted by Binh was that while a BT contract is the basis for the government and investors to implement a BT project, there is still no specific regulation on this type of contract and how to supervise them. He said the land transfer to investors should only be done after the infrastructure works are completed and independent audits are done. But a 2015 government decree allows transfers to be made while the work is ongoing. "Regulations like that contain risks. Why don't we auction lands and get money for infrastructure? That is a loophole the law and government decrees are creating." BT projects should only be awarded in poor localities that are unattractive to investors and others should fund infrastructure by auctioning land, he said. Nguyen Hong Hai, director of Binh Thuan Province's department of transport, agreed with Binh and called on the government to auction lands to raise funds for infrastructure, citing market prices are always higher than the value determined by local authorities. Hoang Quang Ham, a standing member of the NA's Finance and Budget Committee, said while considering the resource limitations it is necessary to finance projects via the BT model, there are no laws regulating investment in the form of public-private partnerships. The government has not issued a decree either on the use of public assets to pay BT investors. "The lack of policies leads to difficulties in management and affects investment and so they need to be researched and completed immediately." Thu Thiem Peninsula of Ho Chi Minh City seen from above. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran Minister of Construction Pham Hong Ha says an online portal would be set up this year to provide urban planning information to the public. He told a National Assembly discussion on land administration and use that it would help prevent arbitrary changes to land planning. Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung had earlier expressed concern about the increasing population density in urban areas such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, which are receiving an additional 200,000 people each year. If in five years they have to house an extra one million people, there would be too much pressure on their infrastructure, he said. Dung blamed this partly on changes made to urban regulations to suit the interests of investors, saying they should also have been based on the practical needs of the public and government. He said there is public frustration from arbitrary changes made to construction density, the number of floors permitted and population density. The proposal to set up the land planning portal was welcomed by Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Tran Hong Ha, whose ministry manages land. Ha said the establishment of such a portal and publicizing of all land transactions would help create average prices for land within five to 10 years. "Then, land valuation will be more transparent and scientific." Dung said control over land use and urban planning would be strengthened so that development takes place in a planned and systematic manner. "We must identify priority projects to prevent adjustments that are arbitrary or not in line with approved plans. This will ensure the real estate market develops healthily." The government would tighten control over the selection of investors for urban projects and make sure land valuation is transparent and in line with the market mechanisms to avoid losses to the state budget, Dung noted. "Land administration will be streamlined and effective. Officials committing violations will be penalized in accordance with the law." Figures from the General Statistics Office show that at the end of 2018 Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City had populations of 7.78 million and 8.64 million respectively. Aerial view of Da Nang land along the coast. Photo by Shutterstock/Tang Trung Kien The government will crack down on locals acting as proxies for foreigners to buy land, Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung says. His reassurance came after lawmakers at the ongoing National Assembly session expressed concern over Vietnamese acquiring property in their name for foreigners, who can buy apartments but are prohibited from buying land or individual houses. Le Hoang Chau, chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Real Estate Association, had said earlier there was increasing demand for Ho Chi Minh City real estate among Chinese investors. The biggest concern was that they asked Vietnamese to buy for them, even properties of very large value, Chau said. National Assembly delegates representing the central city of Da Nang said last November there was increasing buying of land by Chinese along the coast. Lawmakers demanded a stop to this trend. "Vietnamese should be prohibited from being proxies for foreigners for acquiring land," a house proposal to the government demanded. Dinh Duy Vuot, a delegate from the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai, even wanted land acquired this way to be appropriated. In 2015 the government widened foreigners' rights to buy housing in Vietnam under the amended Housing Law. But red tape remains a bottleneck to their exercising the right. A scene from Belgium award-winning "So Help Me God" which will be featured at the upcoming European-Vietnamese Documentary Film Festival in Vietnam. Photo courtesy of the festival organizers Award-winning documentaries from 11 countries will be screened for free at the tenth European-Vietnamese Documentary Film Festival. The festival, to be held in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City from May 31 to June 9, will feature biopics on German Chancellor Angela Merkel and British painter David Hockney, as well as documentaries on environmental and social issues like coastal erosion, natural disorder, and postpatrum depression. Documentaries on contemporary art in Vietnam and ten European countries including Austria, Belgium, France, Denmark, Germany, Israel, and Spain will also be screened, media reports said. Many films that will be screened this year have won important awards and nominations. "So Help Me God" ("Ni juge, Ni Soumise"), which follows an eccentric Belgian judge and her behind the scenes journey of real-life criminal investigations, won the prestigious Cesar award as well as Belgiums Magritte du Cinema award this year. Among the Vietnamese films to be screened is "Remember: Youre alive" ("Hay nho: Ban dang song"), which chronicles the story of a rural girl facing cancer. It won Vietnams Golden Kites Award in 2018. All movies are screened free of charge. All Vietnamese films will carry English subtitles, but not all foreign ones will do so, organizers have said. The screenings will take place at the Studio for Documentary & Scientific Film in Hanoi and Hoa Sen University in Ho Chi Minh City. The festival is an annual event organized by European Union National Institute for Culture (EUNIC) and the DSF. Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh (C) at Tu Hieu Pagoda in Hue in central Vietnam, May 28, 2019. Photo by VnExpress/T.H. Thich Nhat Hanh has returned to Tu Hieu Pagoda after moving out for two weeks while it was being renovated. Hanh, 93, one of Buddhisms most influential leaders, has been staying at the pagoda in Hue since he returned to Vietnam last October. It was where he studied and practiced Zen Buddhism since 1942. He made an appearance at the pagoda roofing ceremony on Tuesday morning. Sitting in a wheelchair, he burned incense sticks to begin the ceremony. He had left on May 6 for a seaside resort in Da Nang. When he returned to Vietnam from France, he made it clear to his disciples he would live out his last days at Tu Hieu. "The Buddhism knowledge and wisdom I acquired from Tu Hieu is now spreading all over the world, and I believe its time for me to return to my roots. "Students of Tu Hieu are now living and practicing Buddhism in many different places around the world and as a way to remind them of their roots, I want to die here in Tu Hieu." He became a monk at the age of 23 after studying Buddhism for seven years. In the 1960s he spearheaded a movement by Buddhists in South Vietnam that called for a negotiated end to the Vietnam War. He left the country in 1966 and lived in Plum Village in southern France for decades, traveling regularly throughout North America and Europe to give lectures on mindfulness and peace. His key teaching is that through mindfulness people can learn to live happily in the present, which is the only way to truly develop peace, both within oneself and in the world outside. He visited Vietnam in 2005, 2007 and 2008, meeting with devout Buddhists and offering prayers for war victims. In 2014 he suffered a stroke and was hospitalized in France for four and a half months. He moved to Plum Village in Thailand in 2016. Hanh is also a poet and peace activist. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize by Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1967, and is the author of more than 100 books, including the bestselling "The Miracle of Mindfulness." A French naval frigate docked at Saigons Hiep Phuoc Port on Tuesday, the first of its class to visit Vietnam. The Forbin D620, a Horizon-class frigate, has 29 officers and 170 non-commissioned officers and soldiers on board. During the frigates week-long visit, the crew will engage in exchanges as well as practice sessions with the Vietnamese navy, and go sight-seeing, said Thomas Frioli, the ship's commanding officer. The visit is part of a bilateral military cooperation program, which seeks to boost the strategic partnership between the two countries. Colonel Le Nam Son (L) of Vietnam Navy Command greets Colonel Thomas Frioli, commanding officer of the French frigate Forbin D620, as it docks in HCMC, May 28, 2019. Photo by VnExpress/Thanh Nguyen The Forbin D620, which is 153 meters long and weighs 7,000 tons, is tasked with escorting and protecting aircraft carriers at sea. It is equipped with rockets and torpedoes, among other weapons, to intercept hostile rockets and aircraft. Vietnam and France established diplomatic relations in 1973. Last September, the two countries signed a Joint Vision Statement on Military Cooperation from 2018 to 2028, which sought to deepen bilateral relations on the basis of sovereignty and the law, and to maintain security and stability in the region and the world. Police investigate the scene where Cao Thi My Duyen, 22, was raped and killed in Vietnam's northern province of Dien Bien in February 2019. Photo courtesy of police The mother of a woman gang-raped and murdered by eight men in northern Vietnam belonged to their drug ring, police say. Police in the northern province of Dien Bien said "a drug organization" was directly behind the case in which eight men kidnapped, raped and murdered Cao Thi My Duyen, 22, in early February. They also found that Duyens mother, Tran Thi Hien, was in the same drug ring as the eight men. Investigators are gathering evidence on Hien in the case, whether she denies involvement or not, Dien Bien police chief Sung A Hong said on Monday. This drug gang has operated for some time and many of its members have been arrested, he said. "If we find more proof that ties suspects to drug-related crimes, we will expand the investigation. For now, the focus will be on the rape and murder only," he said. The eight men involved in the rape murder Vi Van Toan, 37, Bui Van Cong, 44, Vuong Van Hung, 35, Pham Van Nhiem, 47, Luong Van La, 26, Luong Van Hung, 39, Pham Van Dung, 47, and Cam Van Chuong, 45 are also being investigated for robbery, storing narcotics and illegally detaining people. The eight men are all drug users. During the investigation, these suspects had changed their testimonies several times, police say. From L: Vi Van Toan, Bui Van Cong and Vuong Van Hung are held at a police station in Dien Bien Province for gang rape and murder. Photos courtesy of police Investigators found Toan had told the other seven men that Hien owed him a lot of money, so he wanted them to help him kidnap her daughter and blackmail her. In return, Toan would give them money and drugs. Hung came to check out chickens sold by Hien and her daughter Duyen at the Muong Thanh Market in Dien Bien Phu Town on February 4. He asked for Duyens number so that he could place orders later. The same night, he called Duyen and asked her to deliver 13 chickens to a specific address in town. As Duyen arrived with the chickens, driving a motorbike on her own, he and others in the group kidnapped her and strangled her unconscious. They also took the chickens and the bike. Then they took her to Congs house and from the night of February 4 to the first hours of February 7, the group raped her one after another and killed her on the morning of February 7. They dumped her body in an abandoned house five kilometers (three miles) away. Police found that Cong's wife, Bui Kim Thu, 44, was aware of what her husband and other men did to Duyen but did not inform anyone. She pretended to be the first to discover Duyens body by accident, police said, adding that she had tried to mislead the investigators. Thu is being investigated for not reporting the crime to the police. Hien, the victim's mother, had told investigators earlier that she knew none of the men suspected to have brutally raped and killed her daughter. Police have detained her to serve their investigation. Typically, law enforcement and self-discipline would ensure people do not drive under the influence. Vietnams not typical. Jan Rybnik As they say, life is all about making choices. On any issue, people can choose to act or not. Either way, the choices have consequences. There is also another principle at work in making choices - in order to gain something one has to give/lose something. This can be money, time, effort or something else. In an ideal, rational world, people would make choices that bring them closest to their goals with the least cost involved. The role of the law in guiding choices is more of the stick than the carrot, because that is its nature. The law is not there to reward good behavior but to punish bad behavior that can harm others. Its meant to act as a deterrent. Once a law is in place, the choice is to follow or disobey it. In an ideal world, the laws are fair and people would make the choice to abide by it an easy, natural one. But, as we know, our world is not an ideal one. It is not difficult to see how drunk driving is an epidemic here and the source of much public sorrow. This wouldnt happen if people made good choices, recognizing the price they and society have to pay for drunk driving. Since that is not happening, the law has to step in. This is where the law comes in. Punishing drunk drivers for endangering their own lives and that of others is a well-accepted course of action in society. However, it will not help matters if the law remains in the books and is not properly enforced. A car is damaged after it hit and killed a street cleaner in Hanoi on the night of April 22, 2019. The driver said he had at least six glasses of beer pior to the accident. Photo by VnExpress/Phuong Son I have a Vietnamese friend who I met in Canada when he was working part-time at a pharmacy near my place. He was your standard gregarious, funny, happy-go-lucky college guy. After finishing his studies, he returned to Vietnam and became the head of a certain companys business division. After I came to Vietnam, we became much closer. We often hung out and drank beers and talked shop, normal stuff that friends do. But one time I asked why he insisted on driving home himself, knowing that he had drunk quite a large amount of alcohol. "Dont you know thats illegal? If you were still in Canada, you would have been in big trouble." "Its like that in Canada. But not here," he said, patting my back and laughing. Friendly reminder: this guy once rammed his car into a road barrier and is lucky to be alive. Still, he confidently placed his hands on the wheel and drove away like nothing happened. Here in Vietnam, people dont get punished for drunk driving. The first thing that comes to mind when one is pulled over by a traffic cop is not guilt or repentance, but figuring out a way to get out of the situation. Some cry, scream and curse. Some use money to buy their way out of trouble, while others rely on personal connections. Extreme cases involve the police being beaten themselves. For many in Vietnam, the price for drunk driving is easily settled, making it harder for old habits to die hard. What are the long-term implications of this attitude? It erodes peoples trust in justice and legal systems. Like a disease in a tree, the rotting festers and eats the trust, without anyone noticing. Left untreated long enough, the entire forest will be destroyed. Laws and legal systems are some of humanitys most important inventions. They are the lifeblood of any functional society and prosperous civilization. There will be hell to pay if we let it run dry. *Jan Rybnik holds a Masters degree in Modern Diplomacy from the University of Warsaw, Poland. He studied Vietnamese culture at the Vietnam National University in Hanoi. The opinions expressed are his own. Van Don a top five airport in the world for service quality The Van Don International Airport is one of worlds top five airports for service quality in the first quarter, a survey finds. The survey, done by the Airport Performance Measurement Program (APMP), covered 47 airports worldwide. It was based on indicators from SKYTRAX, a UK-based international air transport rating organization. The other airports in the top 5 list were Jukuoka in Japan, Sydney in Australia, and Kaohsiung and Taoyuan in Taiwan. The Van Don International Airport in the northern province of Quang Ninh, Vietnams first private airport, achieved a total APMP score of 78, the highest among Vietnamese airports included in the survey. Evaluation criteria included reflex indicator points (according to customerassessments), abnormal baggage performance points, safety target points, and on-time performance (OTP) target points. A corner of the Van Don International Airport in Quang Ninh Province. Of the indicators, the reflex score rated by customers accounted for the highest proportion in the grading structure, including general survey and assessment items on check-in procedures (employee attitude, procedures at counter, queue times) and service to guide passengers on the plane (attitude of the instructor, convenience of the process from the waiting room to the plane). Van Don Airport's highest score was in this group of indicators, with an average of over 80 points, corresponding to ahigh level of passengersatisfaction. In the first quarter of 2019, Van Don Airport welcomed nearly 40,000 passengers on 328 flights to and from Vietnam operated by Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air and Bamboo Airways. The airport is expected to open more domestic flights to key tourism markets and exploit international routes to potential Asian markets like Taiwan, Thailand, mainland China, South Korea and Japan. Van Don Airport has achieved a high level of passenger satisfaction, in the short time since it opened. On May 27, the airport will officially open international routes and receive B373- 800 aircraft departing from Shenzhen Baoan International Airport, in Guangdong Province, China. Pham Ngoc Sau, director of Van on Airport, said the airport, besides its impressive architecture and quality of facilities, adhered to strict standards of service, ensuring maximum satisfaction for passengers and meeting the stringent criteria of airlines. "Invested in and operated by the Sun Group, Van Don Airport puts the experience and feelings of customers first. The fact that passengers appreciate the attitude of the service staff is an encouragement for us to further improve the quality of service," Sau said. "In the future, we will strive to improve quality inall criteria, especially waiting time, to bring maximum satisfaction to customers. Theairport has also signed a quality commitment pact with airlines to provide maximum support for their operations," he added. Officially inaugurated in December 30, 2018, the VND7.5 trillion ($321 million) Van Don Airport is the first private airport in Vietnam. Van Don Airport has significantly contributedto figure of 6,6 million visitors to Quang Ninh Province in the first four months of this year, up 14 per cent year-on-year. In the short time since its opening, the Van Don Airport gained a reputation for its service quality and conveniences. Its use by an increasing number of airlines and tour operators has contributed significantly to the number of 6.6 million visitors to Quang Ninh Province in the first four months of this year, up 14 per cent year-on-year. Quang Ninh is home to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO natural heritage site. The airport plans to offer greenlandscapes and "ecological experiences" to passengers in the future, bringing it on par with modern airports aroundthe world. As a 4E-class airport under International Civil Aviation Organization standards, Van Don Airport can accommodatethe most modern aircraft in the world. It has a capacity of 2.5 million passengers per year in the first phase and is expected to receive five million passengers per year by 2030. President Trump and Japan's Shinzo Abe dined together on Sunday. Trump discussed Iran's nuclear weapons during a his visit to Japan. Photo by AFP/Kiyoshi Ota Iran hit out at the United States on Monday for "causing tensions" after President Donald Trump said his government was not seeking regime change and that he would welcome talks with Tehran. The Trump administration was "hurting the Iranian people and causing tension in the region," Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif wrote on his Twitter account. "Actions -- not words -- will show whether or not that's @realDonaldTrump's intent," Zarif added, referencing the U.S. president's Twitter handle. Zarif also denied Iran was seeking nuclear weapons, after Trump said during a visit to Japan that "we're not looking for regime change (in Iran)... we're looking for no nuclear weapons." Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei "long ago said we're not seeking nuclear weapons -- by issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them," the foreign minister tweeted. Khamenei is said to have issued a fatwa against nuclear weapons in 2003 and has reiterated it several times since. Iran is locked in a tense standoff with the United States which has beefed up its military presence in the Middle East in response to alleged threats from the Islamic republic. On Saturday, Zarif called a deployment of extra U.S. troops to the region "very dangerous and a threat to international peace and security." It follows a U.S. decision earlier this month to send an aircraft carrier strike force and B-52 bombers in a show of force against what Washington's leaders said they believed was an imminent Iranian plan to attack US assets. Washington says the latest reinforcements are in response to a "campaign" of recent attacks including a rocket launched into the Green Zone in Baghdad, explosive devices that damaged four tankers near the entrance to the Gulf, and drone strikes by Yemeni rebels on a key Saudi oil pipeline. Iran has denied any involvement in the attacks. Uganda is set to host the 4th African Tea Convention & Exhibition starting from June 26 28 June 2019. This is a global event for the tea industry organized by the East African Tea Trade Association (EATTA) based in Mombasa, Kenya assisted by the Uganda Tea Association (UTA). The conference will host specialized forums focusing on the four crucial aspects affecting the tea farmer e.g. the environment, production and processing, human rights and other tea production challenges and consumer changing tests. The convention and Exhibition that will be opened by his Excellency, the President Yoweri Museveni, shall also feature an exhibition of the latest trends and tea products from all over the world and provide a one-on-one interaction of the global tea industry experts. The event provides a great opportunity for its stakeholders to interact with world tea leaders and technology experts, industry experts, agriculture input suppliers, practitioners, researchers and scholars, financiers and investors, logistic and warehousing experts, tea buyers, tea packers and retailers, shippers and freight agents, supply chain corporates, commodity traders, tea brokers, tea value adders and blenders. Other inputs suppliers among other stakeholders from over 30 tea producing and consuming countries across the globe will attend; They will come from Kenya, Rwanda, Japan, USA, Germany, Denmark, Pakistan, India, Malawi, Spain, Sri Lanka South Africa, Argentina, Uzbeskistan and United Kingdom among other countries. The African Tea Convention and Exhibition is the largest tea industry trade show and conference in Africa. Thousands of stakeholders attend it to discover latest trends of tea products from all over the world, to exhibit and see new technology in the tea industry like machinery and in some instances make firm orders of the same, to network with colleagues and friends, and gain tea and tea industry education from leading industry experts. Said Edward Mudibo, Managing Director of EATTA. The convention has been successfully held since 2011. The 1st African Tea convention was held in Mombasa Kenya and the 2nd one was held in Kigali Rwanda in 2013, then the third one held in Nairobi, Kenya. More than 50 tea companies have participated in the exhibitions. It normally attracts more than 500 delegates. It is the best platform for tea companies to find agents, find new customers, understand the market and promote new products and brands. Tea is the most consumed beverage in the world and Uganda is one of the largest tea producing countries in Africa being 2nd to Kenya. With over 20 tea producing companies in Uganda alone, this convention promises to be the biggest ever and will be a very important resource for anyone or company intending to go into the tea business. Said George W. Ssekitoleko, Executive Secretary of UTA. There will be over 20 industry experts from the globe speaking at the event. EATTA founded in 1957 is hosted in Mombasa Kenya. It is the apex body representing the tea industry in Africa. EATTA is made of members from Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Madagascar, Ethiopia & Mozambique. The membership comprises Tea Producers, Buyers/Exporters, Brokers, warehousemen and packers, is a voluntary organization promoting the best interests of the Tea Trade in Africa. EATTA runs the Mombasa Tea Auction at the Tea Trade Centre. This is the largest black CTC auction centre in the world with 32% of the tea exported to the world passing through Mombasa. The United States is gravely concerned about the Chinese governments massive incarceration of Uighurs, ethnic Kazakhs and other Muslim minorities in Chinas Xinjiang province. Scott Busby, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Democracy Human Rights and Labor, said in an interview with Radio Free Asia that the United States is raising the alarm with Muslim majority countries and other nations around the world about the horrible human rights abuse occurring in China. Over a million people are in these camps. They are held there against their will. Some of them are subject to torture; some of them are subject to cruel and inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment. We know that some people have died in the camps, so clearly whats happening in the camps is horrific. Unfortunately, according to Deputy Assistant Secretary Busby, targeting religious believers is not a new phenomenon in China: The Chinese Communist party has shown extreme hostility toward all religion since it took power, and that continues to be of great concern to us. Mr. Busby noted that with the notable exception of Turkey, too many countries have remained silent in the face of the suffering of Chinas Muslim minorities: We think this is a reflection of the power that China unfortunately exerts over other countries by virtue of the assistance China is providing, or by virtue of business relationships that China has. So I think a lot of countries are afraid of speaking the truth of whats going on in Xinjiang. The United States has raised the issue of the detentions with Chinese government authorities both publicly and privately, Deputy Assistant Secretary Busby said, and will continue to do so. While some people have been released from the camps, the U.S. is also considering a variety of options to bring about an end to the abuses taking place in Xinjiang. The United States government and the American people, he said, will continue to stand by the Uighur people and other Muslim minorities. May 24 Jonathan W. Brady, 28, of Elko was arrested at Elko County Jail for buying, possessing or receiving stolen property. Bail: $20,000 ------ Christina N. Braithwaite, 35, of Reno was arrested at the Elko County Sheriffs Office lobby on a warrant for failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime. Bail: $1,312 ------ Virgil F. Gooch, 46, of Tuscarora was arrested on Mountain City Highway for driving under the influence, license plates improperly displayed, and operating an unregistered vehicle, trailer or semi. Bail: $1,335 ------ Marcus A. Tilley, 21, of Spring Creek was arrested at Khourys parking lot for driving under the influence. Bail: $1,140 ------ Matthew E. Doney, 30, of Spring Creek was arrested at 5651 Munchkin Drive for indecent or obscene exposure in the presence of a minor, two counts of open or gross lewdness, and eight counts of indecent or obscene exposure. Bail: $37,500 ------ Darian M. Hoover, 23, of Spring Creek was arrested at 1740 Mountain City Highway for violation of probation or condition of suspended sentence, resisting a public officer, and false statement to obstruct a public officer. Bail: $2,280 ------ Talon S. Jones, 26, of Reno was arrested in Owyhee for contempt of court. Bail: $787.02 ------ Champak Lal, 57, of Elko was arrested at 1500 Idaho St. on a warrant for sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, coercion with force or threat of force, and five counts of open or gross lewdness. Bail: $275,000 ------ Juan C. Sanchez, 24, of Elko was arrested at the parole and probation office for violation of probation or condition of suspended sentence. No bail ------ Ricky L. Smith, 63, of Elko was arrested at the Elko County Jail on a warrant for failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime. Bail: $815 ------ Chee W. Tam, 52, of Sacramento, California was arrested on Interstate 80 on a warrant for failure to appear on a traffic citation. Bail: $290 ------ Michael J. Tognarelli, 36, of Spring Creek was arrested at the Elko County Courthouse on a warrant for failure to appear on a traffic citation. Bail: $855 ------ Aglaeh Uriarte, 25, of Stockton, California was arrested at Washoe County Jail on a warrant for failure to appear after bail on a felony crime. Bail: $5,000 ------ Katherine E. Zaval, 25, of Elko was arrested for violation of probation or condition of suspended sentence, and four count of failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime. No bail The charges above do not imply guilt. Under the law, everyone is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 May 25 Roberto Carlos, 23, was arrested at 2758 Indiana Ave. for domestic battery by strangulation. Bail: $20,000 ------ Angela M. Cota, 43, of Reno was arrested at Owyhee on a warrant for failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime. Bail: $1,000 ------ Ira K. Davis, 25, of Reno was arrested at 1672 Butte Ave. in West Wendover on a warrant for assault with a deadly weapon. Bail: $20,000 ------ Ryan M. Gallagher, 24, of Lamoille was arrested at Cowboys Bar for violation of probation or condition of suspended sentence, and felony possession of a controlled substance. No bail ------ Mayelin C. Gonzalez, 29, of Pacoima, California was arrested at Elko County Jail on a warrant for trafficking a controlled substance. Bail: $250,000 ------ Michael R. Hines, 36, of Elko was arrested at the homeless camp on a warrant for two counts of failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime. Bail: $1,355 ------ Rhiannon N. Junker, 30, of Elko was arrested at Southside Park for violation of probation or condition of suspended sentence and false statement to obstruct a public officer. No bail ------ Colton R. Sperry, 28, of Elko was arrested at Southside Park for false statement to obstruct a public officer. Bail: $1,140 The charges above do not imply guilt. Under the law, everyone is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 May 26 Luis R. Chavez-Oaxaca, 38, of West Valley, Utah was arrested in the Rainbow casino parking lot for driving under the influence; open container of alcohol in vehicle; battery on a protected person; selling, furnishing or assisting a minor in obtaining an alcoholic beverage; driving without a drivers license; nonsurrender or suspended, revoked or cancelled registration card or license; and resisting a public officer. Bail: $14,342 ------ Drake R. Kennedy, 19, of Elko was arrested at Budget Inn for minor purchasing or consuming alcoholic beverage in a premises where sold. Bail: $355 ------ Walter Maldonado Morales, 26, of Gunnison, Utah was arrested at the Chevron station in West Wendover for battery. Bail: $740 ------ Joel C. Nalley, 36, of Battle Mountain was arrested at 111 W. School St. in Carlin for disturbing the peace. Bail: $355 ------ Brian A. Penola, 35, of Mountain City was arrested at Albertsons for burglary and petit larceny. Bail: $21,140 ------ Willeen J. Smith, 50, of Battle Mountain was arrested at 10th and Poplar in Carlin for driving with a suspended license, and driving under the influence. Bail: $1,495 ------ Loren H. Sneed, 57, of Elko was arrested at 1467 Chokecherry St. on four BIA/tribal charges. Bail: $2,000 ------ Justin L. Zeek, 28, of Crescent Valley was arrested on Lamoille Highway for speeding 1-10 mph over limit, open container of alcohol in vehicle, and driving under the influence. Bail: $1,670 Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 May 27 Laura G. Bennett, 55, of Elko was arrested on a warrant for contempt of court. Bail: $809 ------ Leonard K. Carter, 36, of Spring Creek was arrested at Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital for driving under the influence and failure to decrease speed or use due care. Bail: $1,235 ------ Mayelin C. Gonzalez, 29, of Pacoima, California was arrested at Elko County Jail on a warrant for felony possession of a controlled substance. Bail: $5,000 ------ Samantha J. Macias, 20, of Spring Creek was arrested at Fourth and Water streets for two counts of use or possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a hypodermic device. Bail: $1,780 ------ Melanie Mute, 42, of West Valley, Utah was arrested in the McDonalds parking lot in West Wendover for domestic battery. Bail: $3,000 ------ Aldric L. Shirley, 26, of Elko was arrested at Third and Douglas streets for felony possession of a controlled substance. Bail: $5,000 ------- Randall Souknary, 24, of Salt Lake City was arrested at Montego Bay casino for forgery, obtaining money by false pretenses, and felony possession of a controlled substance. Bail: $30,000 ------ Daniel A. Souliere, 38, of Elko was arrested at Fast Glass for driving without a drivers license and displaying bogus vehicle registration, plate or title. Bail: $550 ------ Harold L. Turner, 27, of Elko was arrested at Fourth and Silver streets for escape by a non-felony prisoner, two counts of use or possession of drug paraphernalia, and on a parole and probation hold. No bail The charges above do not imply guilt. Under the law, everyone is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. The charges above do not imply guilt. Under the law, everyone is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 ELKO About 60 people braved a cold, steady rain to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice at the annual Memorial Day Ceremony. Huddled under umbrellas, a crowd listened to the names of 89 Elko County men who died in American wars including World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Iraq War. The ceremony at the Elko City Cemetery lasted less than 30 minutes and included remarks from Brian Mason, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran from Owyhee who was the guest speaker this year. He spoke briefly about the duty veterans have to those who died while serving their country. We serve the ones who are fallen that made the ultimate sacrifice, Mason said. That could be on the field of battle, it could in a training accident or it could be an individual that was lost at sea while on night watch in the Persian Gulf. All sacrifice. In his closing remarks, Mason also thanked the audience for braving the rain. Thanks for being here even though the weather is a little bit wet. In the Marine Corps, we used to call this liquid sunshine, Mason said. After the names were read, the VFW Honor Guard led a salute to the dead, and a volley of shots was fired three times by the VFW Firing Party. VFW Bugler Bob Neitz performed a rendition of taps and POW/MIA Chaplain Lee Foster closed the ceremony in prayer. The annual ceremony was sponsored by the Gasper J. Salaz VFW Post 2350 and Auxiliary. 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. A bill that proposes to tax e-cigarettes and their accessories at the same rate as other tobacco products is making a late-session comeback. Democratic Sen. Julia Ratti presented SB263 on Monday to the joint Assembly Taxation and Senate Revenue committees, framing the bill more as an effort to raise the price of e-cigarettes and curb a rising trend of youth use than to raise coveted tax revenue. The measure, which would impose a 30 percent wholesale tax on vaping products, is projected to raise about $8 million a year a significant portion of which would flow back to vaping prevention activities. Vapor products are harmful, period, said Michael Hackett, president of the Nevada Tobacco Prevention Coalition. Hopefully past lessons weve learned about tobacco arent lost as we confront its future. Ratti cited statistics that vaping among youth grew 78 percent year-over-year and described the practice as their gateway drug to a life of addiction to nicotine, rather than the offramp from smoking that proponents use to describe it. A college student and a sixth-grader who testified in favor of the bill told of classmates vaping in the back of the bus and in class. At school I see kids vaping in the bathrooms a lot, and also have people on my school bus that vape in the back of the bus all the way home and its not enjoyable, Ruby Schmauss, 12, told lawmakers. I have a few friends who have been doing this as well. Im just a kid, not even a teenager even. It makes me sad that my peers are vaping. Ratti also brought in Desert Research Institute scientist Andrey Khlystov, who testified about his findings on secondhand smoke from people exhaling vapor and high concentrations of formaldehyde found in vape shops. While conceding that vaping is safer than traditional smoking, Khlystov said our findings clearly show that e-cigarettes are not harmless nicotine delivery devices. Rattis bill has four components: taxing the products the same as the other tobacco products category in statute, enforcing age limits on the sale of vape products, preventing vaping with a mass media campaign, and putting vaping under the indoor-smoking restrictions of the Clean Indoor Air Act. Because it raises a tax, the bill will require two-thirds of lawmakers support in each house. Though Democrats are one vote shy of two-thirds in the Senate, Republican state Sens. Heidi Gansert and Joe Hardy signaled strong support for the legislation at the Monday hearing. Its clear theres an epidemic, Gansert said. We really are on an exponential rise in use amongst youth, so I appreciate you bringing this bill forward and working so hard to get a bill that should work. Opponents included representatives from vape manufacturer Juul and the Nevada Vaping Association, who argued that cracking down on vaping would hurt adults who are trying to quit smoking. They also emphasized that they dont support youth vaping. Their testimony provoked some of the members of the committee, including Democratic Assemblywoman Heidi Swank, who pressed Nevada Vaping Association lobbyist William Horne on whether the group cared enough about preventing youth use to invest in any campaigns to stop the practice. (Horne said he wasnt aware of specific programs.) She also expressed concern that vaping products are attracting children with colorful devices and a wide variety of flavors, including candy and fruit. But Horne said those flavors are key to the success of vapes. Kids arent the only human beings who like candy. Adults like candy, too, Horne said. One of the things that attracts them and keeps them from going back to cigarettes are the flavors. Swank, who said her parents were smokers and died young, recalled that she felt grown-up as a child using candy cigarettes. Even though adults like candy, I think we all know why people are vaping, and its not for the candy and, as an industry, you all need to make sure youre doing these things that do not make this vaping attractive to children, she said. Lawmakers had proposed a vaping tax last session of 5 cents per milliliter of vaping liquid, but the bill died along the way amid opposition from vaping companies that had already fled Californias high vaping tax and believed the Nevada bill would be a death sentence. Rattis bill taxes at the wholesale level, something thats projected to raise eight times as much revenue. One of the main ways we were able to reduce smoking was taxing it, she said, and taxing it significantly. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Qi Yang teaches Chinese at an academy in Pozuelo de Alarcon. ANDREA COMAS The parents of the young children studying Chinese at the Ya-Lan school in Pozuelo, outside Madrid, dont understand a word of what is being said, but they beam as they listen to their offspring chanting the unfamiliar phrases. It is not unlike the scenario they themselves were in 20 years ago, only then the language de rigueur back then was English. Now, they smile and clap as they watch their little treasures some as young as three sing the Five Fingers song, a typical Chinese nursery rhyme. These are children from private and state-subsidized schools who already have a relatively good grasp of English. Their parents have signed them up because they consider that the best investment for their future is fluency in the worlds top three languages. Antonio Martin, nine, practices Chinese characters at an academy in Pozuelo de Alarcon. ANDREA COMAS This is the best gift we can give them, says Manuela Hidalgo, a bank employee who has her five- and seven-year-olds at the academy. Hidalgo recognizes the effort involved but believes it to be worthwhile. Its the language of the future, she says, a phrase that is repeated like a mantra by all the other parents. Classes in Mandarin have soared in Madrid in direct proportion to Chinas economic clout. Just 10 years back, it was unusual to find Mandarin being taught in private and state-subsidized schools, but now 89 of them have it as an option and some have even made it mandatory, according to Hanban, the Chinese governments promotional agency for language. Chinese is now replacing French and German as a second foreign language in the schools around Madrid Since learning Chinese is no easy task, some parents take an intensive approach and hire private tutors, and even live-in au pairs, to boost their childrens fluency. There has also been a rash of companies promoting summer camps in China with the promise of 100% immersion. And as universities and international companies increasingly rate the skill, more people are coming round to the idea, says Nestor Tsai, director of the Association of Chinese Teachers, though the phenomenon is particularly popular with the wealthier sections of society, as many have had first-hand experience of what is happening in the US and the UK where Chinese forms an integral part of educating the elite. Many of these children will be the future leaders of Spain, the ones that head the multinationals and lead diplomacy, says Tsai. Ya-Lan Chuang, the director of the Chinese academy, started giving private classes to two or three children in 2009, not long after arriving in Spain from Taiwan. She now employs 11 native speakers who teach 25 afternoon groups in prosperous areas of Madrid, such as La Moraleja, Aravaca, Pozuelo and Serrano. Her method involves absorbing the language as though it were the childrens mother tongue. Sofia Gahete, 14, with her au pair Toto at home in Daganzo de Arriba. ANDREA COMAS Ya-Lan has no need to promote the academy as demand is overwhelming. People hear that their neighbors child is learning Chinese and they promptly sign their own child up. Its word of mouth, she says. Chinese is now replacing French and German as a second foreign language in the schools around Madrid. Five years ago, Hanban signed an agreement with the Madrid regional government, offering Chinese teachers to public schools free of charge as an extra-curricular activity, but so far only 34 schools have taken advantage of the scheme, according to Li Zhang, the Hanban representative in Spain. Zhang says that the governments of other countries have been pushing Chinese. In 2013, former UK Prime Minister David Cameron encouraged schools to exchange French for Chinese and, according to Hanban, the UK now has more than 100,000 students of Mandarin, almost double the numbers in Spain which are estimated at 52,000. But it is the under-18 age bracket that is really driving the boom. In private schools such as the Colegio Internacional Nuevo Centro, students have to take Mandarin from kindergarten through to baccalaureate. According to Li Shy Yi, head of the Chinese language department at Nuevo Centro, they were the pioneers the first to make Mandarin part of the school curriculum. Li Shy Yi had reservations at first, as there were not even any text books to work with, but the scheme has been an unequivocal success and over the years she has watched dozens of other schools in the region follow suit. Chinese is one of the reasons that parents sign their children up to the school, says Li. But Chinese is so hard for a Spanish speaker that schools cannot promise parents that their children will come out with anything higher than level A1 the most basic level in the European Framework of Reference for Languages. Speaking like a native Despite its rocketing popularity, few Spaniards have got a really good grasp of a language that is spoken by nearly a billion people as a mother tongue. I only know half a dozen people in Madrid who speak fluently and can hold a conversation, says Margaret Chen, president of the China Club Spain, an association that promotes exchanges between both countries. The families who are spending the most on getting their children to learn Chinese also invest in summer camps in China. One company offering summer language camps is AbarcaChina, which charges 4,750 for three weeks and accepts students between the ages of 9 and 17. The price includes the flight, accommodation with a local family and daily Chinese classes. The director, Ana Abarca, believes there is a pressing need to learn Chinese. We dont yet realize the influence that China is about to have, she says. Many of these children will be the future leaders of Spain, the ones that head the multinationals and lead diplomacy Nestor Tsai, Association of Chinese Teachers Others opt for Chinese au pairs, a more economical route. According to the AuPair.com agency, in the first three months of this year they had 73 Chinese au pairs coming to Spain, five times more than last year during the same period. Sofia Gahete, 14, talks with surprising fluency to her au pair, Xu Zichen aka Toto, 23, who is the fourth to live with Sofias family in Daganzo de Arriba. Sofia says Chinese people are floored when they hear a European speaking their language fluently; when she upbraided a group of Chinese passengers in their own language for attempting to skip the check-in line on a flight to Dubai, mouths dropped. Happy and outgoing, Sofia translates what Toto says into Spanish: She says that a Chinese person could mistake me for a native speaker with a bit of an accent. Toto helps Sofia with her writing, which is even harder than speaking, with a view to Sofia taking the HSK 4 official exam this summer. This is a test that adults usually take after several years of study. Both her parents, like so many others, believe that Chinese is going to be essential for the next generation, and her father Jose Gahete, a 50-year-old industrial engineer, says that while not everyone is keen on having someone come live with them for the whole year, they have been lucky because their daughter has always gotten along well with her au pairs. Our experience has been great, and its preparing Sofia for the future, he says. English version by Heather Galloway. Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera with lawmaker Ines Arrimadas on Monday. Alvaro Garcia Spains acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has become the central figure in the countrys political landscape after winning four elections held less than a month apart. While his Socialist Party (PSOE) attracted the highest number of votes at national and European elections, and also won many of the local and regional races being contested on Sunday, the fragmented scenario will force Sanchez to reach cross-party deals at all levels of government. But the outcome of Sundays voting has strengthened his hand, and Sanchez now appears to be playing with time, and pressuring both rivals and allies for concessions. Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias talks about the election results. EFE A weaker Podemos Before Sunday, the leader of the anti-austerity Unidas-Podemos party, Pablo Iglesias, had been pressing for a national coalition government in which he and other party leaders would control ministries. But after emerging the big loser on Super Sunday, Iglesias admitted that his partys weight is now modest. Nevertheless, on Monday he was still insisting that he should enter the national executive. But the PSOE, which had once been considering this option, has put a damper on the idea. Instead, the party is now pressuring Ciudadanos (Citizens) to reconsider its outright rejection of any kind of deal to support the Socialists. We are ready to talk, but our position with regard to forming a government is that it will be a PSOE government; one that is open to independents and progressives, but ultimately a PSOE government, said the groups organization secretary Jose Luis Abalos on Monday. PSOE Organization Secretary and acting public works minister Jose Luis Abalos. EFE Lets hope that certain political groups will not give wings to Vox within the institutions or let them hold the key to municipal and regional governments, he added, alluding to Ciudadanos, a self-defined liberal party that is part of the ALDE alliance in the European Parliament. During the campaign race, Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera had announced that he was cordoning off the PSOE while making overtures to the far-right, ultra-nationalist Vox party. But on Monday, Ciudadanos said it was setting up a committee to analyze case-by-case alliances, and did not close the door to deals with the PSOE. The partys new congressional speaker, Ines Arrimadas, gave a 10-minute news conference to announce the creation of the committee. Ines Arrimadas of Ciudadanos gives a news conference on Monday. Europa Press We are going to do things right, sensibly. We are going to think about the general interest of citizens, she said. Local and regional pacts with the PSOE could be possible in regions such as Castilla y Leon, Aragon or Murcia. Following Sundays vote, its support will be necessary to make Jose Luis Martinez Almeida of the Popular Party (PP) the new mayor of Madrid. European pressure The Socialists know that Ciudadanos cannot expect free support from Vox in key places such as the Madrid region, and that the far-right group will demand a spot in the executive in return for its backing. At regional elections held in Andalusia last December, Vox which was then entering democratic institutions for the first time agreed to prop up a center-right government made up of the PP and Ciudadanos. Rivera is going to Brussels on Tuesday to attend a meeting of ALDE, and he will presumably face added pressure there from his European partners, who cannot understand his attitude when all other liberal parties have been working to isolate the far right, as noted by Ciudadanos own top candidate for Barcelona, the former French prime minister Manuel Valls. On Monday, Pedro Sanchez dined in Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron, who is an ally of Riveras and who could also pressure the latter not to team up with the far right in Spain. English version by Susana Urra. Former King Juan Carlos (r) with the Spanish royal family in December. Carlos Rosillo The former king of Spain, Juan Carlos I, has officially informed his son, King Felipe VI, of his plans to withdraw from official events and retire from public life from June 2, which will be the five-year anniversary of his abdication of the throne. Although Juan Carlos played a minor role in the official agenda of La Zarzuela, the seat of the royal household, he was required to attend special cultural events and award ceremonies. The former king played a more active role last year in a series of initiatives and public events organized to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Spanish Constitution as well as his 80th birthday. In a letter that has been shared by La Zarzuela, Juan Carlos tells Felipe VI that five years after his abdication, he believes the moment has arrived to retire from public life and withdraw from the institutional activities he has been a part of. According to the missive, Juan Carlos has been considering his retirement since his 80th birthday on January 5, 2018. The celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Spanish Constitution in Congress, an event where he played an important role, confirmed his decision. [It was] a solemn act, full of emotion for me, that evoked, with pride and admiration, the memory of the many people who made the political Transition [to democracy] possible and renewed my feeling of permanent gratitude toward the Spanish people, the true architect and leading protagonist of that transcendental stage of our recent history, the letter reads. Juan Carlos was forced to abdicate on June 2, 2014 at the lowest point of his career, plagued by poor health and also facing a public backlash over a controversial hunting expedition in Botswana and an embezzlement scandal known as the Noos case, which involved his daughter, the Infanta Cristina de Borbon y Grecia and her husband Inaki Urdangarin. But his 38 years on the throne encompassed more than the hunting photo that brought an end to his reign. Juan Carlos played a decisive role in the transition to democracy and his time as king coincides with a period when Spain enjoyed its greatest democratic and economic prosperity. Following the scandals that led to his abdication, the royal household limited Juan Carloss activities in the official agenda to protect the monarchy from the potentially negative impact his presence could cause. After Princess Cristina was acquitted in the Noos case on February 17, 2017, Juan Carlos began again to take a more active role in official acts. Despite his failing physical condition and the fact he was no longer head of state, Juan Carlos I has always been available on the official agenda of the royal household, but with discretion and varying degrees of involvement. Since he abdicated the throne, Juan Carlos has attended 120 acts, given 30 speeches and gone on nine official trips, most for cultural purposes but also as a key political figure. In 2016 for example, Juan Carlos traveled to Colombia to witness the signing of the peace agreement between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). Since 2014, he has also attended the opening of the expanded Panama Canal, the funeral of Fidel Castro, and several Latin American presidential inaugurations. At the opening of the photographic exhibition 40 Years of Spanish Democracy, a Story of Success on November 28, 2018, King Felipe VI celebrated the role of his father as a witness and direct participant [of the] profound and decisive transformation of Spain after the return to democracy. Felipe VI repeated this praise a month later at an act in Spanish Congress to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Spanish Constitution. The announcement of Juan Carloss retirement comes as his public image has started to recover from the past scandals. But despite this, the former king has continued to be dragged into political controversy, with alleged recordings of discussions regarding his business affairs seeking to damage his reputation for political and legal gain. Juan Carlos was last seen in public in the Las Ventas bullfighting ring in Madrid for celebrations for the San Isidro festivities in May. The former king will remain a member of the royal family despite his retirement from public life. Juan Carloss decision does not affect his wife, Queen Sofia, who will continue to appear at activities organized by the royal household. English version by Melissa Kitson. Potential mayor Almeida (r) with PP president Pablo Casado (c) and Madrid regional candidate Isabel Diaz Ayuso. Uly Martin Jose Luis Martinez-Almeida, who looks set to become the new mayor of Madrid following municipal elections held on Sunday, says that his first measure will be to address Madrid Central, alluding to a low-emissions area recently put into place in the city center. The Madrid branch of Almeidas Popular Party (PP) wants to go back to an earlier, less-strict traffic-restriction system based on priority for residents. Our position was clear, and it was one of the pillars of our campaign, said Almeida. It was so pleasant for us. Are they going to reopen my street to traffic? Javier Noriega, photographer The politician added that there are more efficient ways of fighting climate change than Madrid Central, such as subsidies for buying a new, low-emission car. He added that when he becomes mayor, he will focus on the problems that matter the most to Madrilenos, such as street cleanliness and conservation. But Javier Ortega Smith, the secretary general of Vox, a far-right party that could enter the Madrid executive, announced on Sunday that starting tomorrow, Madrid Central is over. Introduced in November 2018 to curb air pollution and give more space to pedestrians, Madrid Central was the signature measure of the outgoing mayor, Manuela Carmena of the leftist Ahora Madrid party. The program made 472 hectares of the city center off-limits to traffic except for zero-emission vehicles, local residents, public transportation and a few other exceptions. Javier Ortega Smith of Vox wants to axe Madrid Central altogether. Europa Press A study released in March showed that emissions of nitrogen oxide (NO x ), a polluting gas released by vehicles, fell by 38% in Madrids center the first month the program was implemented, while carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) emissions dropped by 14.2%. Additionally, traffic was reduced by as much as 24% on frequently congested thoroughfares such as Gran Via. A municipal survey of Madrid residents gave the measure a 6.1 on 10. While the PP which governed the city of Madrid uninterruptedly from 1991 to 2015 obtained its worst result ever in the municipal polls on Sunday, it expects to secure backing from the center-right Ciudadanos and the ultra-nationalist Vox to form a local government. Speaking about Madrid Central, Begona Villacis of Ciudadanos who could end up as the deputy mayor said we would not revert it directly. You cant spend your whole life reverting things. Instead, were going to reform it. Now what? On Monday morning, residents of Madrids city center were left wondering how the political changes would affect traffic in their area. Now what? It was so pleasant for us. Are they going to reopen my street to traffic? wondered Javier Noriega, a 34-year-old photographer who lives in the trendy neighborhood of Malasana. Despite the political rhetoric, the traffic restrictions are based on a city ordinance that would require an absolute majority to reform. And a highly fragmented council makes this unlikely. Additionally, the pollution-reduction program was part of a bid to avoid a multimillion-euro fine from the European Commission, which had warned Spain about its urban contamination. If the program were to be axed, Spain would face sanctions once again. Signs denoting the Madrid Central zone at Plaza de Espana. ALVARO GARCIA A similar plan Previous PP administrations introduced four areas awarding priority to residents vehicles and their guests: Embajadores, Cortes, Letras and Opera. Exceptions were also made for delivery vans and other special vehicles. It was essentially similar to Madrid Central, only on a smaller scale. Former PP Mayor Ana Botella in fact attempted something similar to Madrid Central, but got around to it too late in the political term. The only real difference between Botellas and Carmenas plans is that the former allowed transit on major thoroughfares such as Gran Via, Atocha and San Bernardo, whereas the latter closed those off to non-residents as well. Refurbishment work to Gran Via has since reduced car lanes and widened the sidewalks, a move that was applauded by 85% of the more than 200,000 respondents in a municipal survey conducted in April. English version by Susana Urra. Pivdenne Design Bureau to equip Zenit LVs with Ukrainian instead of Russian engines over two years Director General of the Dnipro-based Yangel Yuzhnoye (Pivdenne) Design Bureau Oleksandr Degtyarev says that he is convinced of good market prospects of the Ukrainian Zenit launch vehicle (LV) involved in several international projects. The plans to reequip it with new Ukrainian rocket engines instead of Russia's RD-171M engines are quite real, he added. "Zenit LV's launch systems fully meet all world standards," Degtyarev said in reply to a question from journalists about the Pivdenne Design Bureau's readiness to resume Zenit LV's launches from the Baikonur Cosmodrome. "To my mind, a certain political component is hampering to us," the director general of the Pivdenne Design Bureau said. He confirmed that the import substitution problems of Russian component parts are relevant "as always" for Zenit LVs. "The RD-171M first-stage engine constitutes the most pressing problem of import substitution in Zenit," Degtyarev said. "The Pivdenne Design Bureau has developed the RD-815 engine with a 250-tonne thrust and three engines, which constitute Mayak-S3.9 LV's first stage, are slightly higher than the RD-171M by their overall characteristics," he said. "We unfortunately have some problems with their manufacture, and we are lagging behind in terms of producing hardware to undertake sound tests. But we are advancing in this direction. And we could have done quite a lot by uniting efforts," he said. "If we have enough money, we will do it for two years," Degtyarev said, when asked about how much time the Pivdenne Design Bureau will need for creating a new domestic engine for Zenit LVs. As for the problem of import substitution of Russian aluminum in the space industry, Degtyarev said that aluminum can be bought in Europe and the United States. The Pivdenne Design Bureau has already been shifting to using new aluminum alloys in its developments, he said. The Pivdenne Design Bureau is a Ukrainian main scientific center, which develops spacecraft. This design bureau currently exports about 80% of its products and services, with the U.S. and the EU countries as its main partners. Ukraine International Airlines (UIA, Kyiv) will pay a compensation of EUR 250 and return the cost of the unused tickets to each passenger of PS55 Kyiv-Odesa flight serviced on May 26, who failed to board the plane due to actions of employees of Aerohandling LLC servicing company, UIA has said on its Facebook page. "We are very sad for the situation that has developed and for the inconvenience that our passengers faced... Passengers will be refunded the cost of an unused Kyiv-Odesa ticket, and also, according to the rules of UIA, compensation of EUR 250 will be paid. UIA is now preparing a complaint against the Aerohandling servicing company about the situation that was seen on May 26," the airline said in a statement. UIA said that, in fact, the situation with about 30 passengers of the flight through the fault of Aerohandling is currently under internal investigation. "All passengers who did not fly away were provided with food, as well as the opportunity of choosing an alternative option to get to their destination. Passengers who decided to fly to Odesa the next day were accommodated at the hotel," the airline's press service said. As reported, UIA flight PS55 Kyiv-Odesa on May 26 flew away, leaving some of the registered passengers at the airport. Later, , Director General of Aerohandling Oleh Holokhvastov brought an apology for the situation on behalf of the company, saying that the incident was due to the deterioration of the health condition of an employee of the handling company. Dragon Capital announced today the sale of its entire stake in Chumak, Ukraine's leading producer of branded food products, to Delta Wilmar the Ukraine affiliate of Wilmar International Ltd Singapore, one of Asia's leading agribusiness groups. "We are happy to announce a successful exit from our investment in Chumak. It has been a pleasure to support such a great business and management team over the last 10 years," Dragon Capital CEO Tomas Fiala said. Chumak is one of Ukraine's most recognized branded food producers, manufacturing ketchup, mayonnaise, tomato paste, sauces and pasta. Established in 1996 by Swedish businessmen in Kakhovka (Kherson region), it is one of the largest tomato processors in the CIS with an annual processing capacity of up to 100,000 tonnes. Delta Wilmar CIS LLC was established in 2004. It specializes in the production of oil and fat goods and ingredients for bakery, confectionery and dairy products. PrivatBank has filed counterclaims against two verdicts of Kyiv's district administrative court issued on April 18, 2019, which annulled the decision of the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) to remove insolvent PrivatBank from the market with the participation of the state and determine a list of persons affiliated with PrivatBank, the bank has said in a press release. According to the report, in particular, on May 27, the bank filed an appeal against the court's verdict to cancel the decision to remove insolvent PrivatBank from the market with the participation of the state, and on May 24 against the court's verdict to cancel the NBU commission's decision on determining the list of persons affiliated with the bank. "Taking this into account, these court decisions have not entered into legal force and do not have any legal consequences," the bank said. As reported, the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) filed counterclaims against these two court verdicts on May 24, the Cabinet of Ministers on May 16. Ukraine's government, at the recommendation of the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) and former shareholders of PrivatBank, the largest of whom at that time were Ihor Kolomoisky and Hennadiy Boholiubov, on December 18, 2016 decided to nationalize PrivatBank, the largest Ukrainian financial institution at the time. The ex-owners of the bank consider the nationalization, as a result of which they had completely lost their shares, to be illegal, whereas PrivatBank and the state demand additional compensation from them for damage. At present, the parties are engaged in litigation both in Ukraine and in foreign jurisdictions. The secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, Oleksandr Danyliuk, has rejected a possibility of declaring default on Ukraine's debts, as was suggested earlier by major businessman Ihor Kolomoisky. "Ukraine's failure to repay its debts would be "a road to nowhere" undermining confidence in the state and leading to negative consequences for its population, so such decisions are not even being considered," Danyliuk said at a briefing. The newly appointed secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (NSDC), Oleksandr Danyliuk, believes that Ukraine will receive a tranche of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after the completion of early parliamentary elections and the formation of government, and this is not a problem. "I think it will be after the parliamentary elections and the formation of government. Look, the tranche is important, but it is important primarily for the National Bank, which replenishes foreign exchange reserves. Now at this stage it is important that the government fulfill its obligations, both internal on budget and external," he told reporters after a briefing on the meeting of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and his team with the IMF mission. Danyliuk stressed that for this it is important to continue cooperation with the IMF. He noted that the meeting was attended by Governor of the NBU Yakiv Smolii and Minister of Finance of Ukraine Oksana Markarova. "We've discussed in detail all the elements of cooperation," the secretary of the NSDC said. The decision by the United Nations International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea ordering Russia to release three ships of the Ukrainian Navy and 24 Ukrainian sailors captured in the Kerch Strait area in November 2018 and allow them to return to Ukraine has disrupted Moscow's plans. Russia wanted to use the Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) as bargaining chips, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin has said. "The decision in Hamburg broke the Russian logic, according to which they intended to use our [citizens] as bargaining chips, playing on the political situation. Now, together with friends and partners, we will turn a symbolic victory into practical levers. And we will definitely return the POWs home," he said on Twitter on Tuesday. On November 25, 2018, Russian border guards reportedly captured the Ukrainian Yany Kapu raid tug and small armored artillery boats Berdyansk and Nikopol of Ukraine's Naval Forces. The boats were heading from Odesa to Mariupol. Russia fired on the vessels, seized the boats and captured 24 Ukrainian sailors, wounding three of them. Russia has charged the sailors with crossing the Ukraine-Russia border illegally. On April 16, 2019, Ukraine applied to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea for provisional measures against Russia for the release of Ukrainian sailors and ships. The Foreign Ministry noted that, in accordance with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, naval vessels and their personnel have absolute immunity, which provides that foreign states cannot arrest, detain and judge them. On May 10, hearings of the UN International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in the case of the Ukrainian sailors began in Hamburg. An agent from Ukraine at the hearing was Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine for European integration Olena Zerkal. On May 25, the Tribunal issued a ruling that obliged Russia to release three Ukrainian ships and the 24 Ukrainian sailors captured in the Kerch Strait area in November 2018 and allow them to return to Ukraine. Some 19 judges voted for this decision, one judge Ruslan Kolodkin (from Russia) against. The Tribunal ordered Russia to report on the implementation of this decision by June 25, 2019, and also obliged Ukraine and Russia to refrain from any actions that could aggravate or prolong the dispute. The Ukrainian political party Opposition Platform - For Life held a regular congress in Kyiv on May 27 to consider a number of organizational issues, and its delegates unanimously elected parliamentarians Vadym Rabinovych and Yuriy Boiko its co-chairpersons, the party's press service said. Viktor Medvedchuk was unanimously elected head of the party's Political Council and chairman of its Strategic Council, and parliamentarian Serhiy Liovochkin chairman of its Executive Committee. "Opposition Platform - For Life party Co-Chairman Vadym Rabinovych called for putting into practice a victorious strategy of the party's participation in the upcoming parliamentary elections," it said. President Zelensky to make his first foreign visit to Brussels on June 4-5 President of Ukraine Volodymy Zelensky will make his first foreign visit to Brussels on June 4-5. The Interfax-Ukraine agency has learned from diplomatic sources that Zelensky will meet with the leadership of the European Union and NATO as part of his stay in Brussels. In particular, he will meet with President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker and President of the European Union Donald Tusk. Zelensky will also hold talks with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, followed by a press conference. On Wednesday, May 29, at 10.30, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference entitled: "Gender Quotas in Parliamentary Electoral Process: Chance for Fair Representation." Participants include: Chairperson of the Parliamentary Subcommittee on Gender Equality and Non-Discrimination MP Iryna Suslova; expert of Ukrainian Institute for Human Rights Bohdan Kryklyvenko; Chairman of NGO Women's Rights League "Harmony of Equal" Oleksandr Holub; journalist, expert on non-discrimination at the Human Rights Center ZMINA Iryna Vyrtosu; gender expert Ella Lamakh (8/5a Reitarska Street). Registration of journalists with editorial IDs on the spot. More details by phone: +38 096 485 4797. On Thursday, May 30, at 11.30, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference entitled "Who is Trying to Destroy All-Ukrainian Military-Patriotic Center-Museum 'Champagne?'" Participants include: Chairman of the NGO Legal Protection and Security of Ukraine Yuriy Mykuliak and member of the NGO Legal Protection and Security of Ukraine Serhiy Veremeyenko (8/5a Reitarska Street). Registration requires press accreditation. This years festival boasts 30 pavilions showcasing Thanh Ha lychees in addition to various other types of farm produce and tourism products of Thanh Ha district. The event offered an opportunity for local lychee farmers and producers to meet with marketing experts and distributors in order to build a chain in agricultural production. Secretary of Thanh Ha district Party Committee Nguyen Duc Tuan said that Thanh Ha has favourable natural conditions to grow fruits, particularly lychees, which have become a specialty fruit with production being duplicated in many localities across the country. Thanh Ha district has nearly 3,800ha of lychees in 2019 which is estimated to produce 18,000 tonnes of lychees, including 16,000 tonnes of early maturing fruit and 2,000 tonnes of fruit of the main crops. Due to low productivity in this season, lychees are being sold at high prices and the consumption of lychees is smooth. Thanh Ha lychees will be exported to the UK, Russia, Germany, France, the Republic of Korea and Indonesia as well as domestic and Chinese markets. On the occasion, the Hai Duongs Department of Agriculture and Rural Development granted the VietGAP certificate to Thanh Binh commune in Thanh Ha district to certify that its lychee growing areas meet VietGAP standards. While in Norway, PM Phuc held talks with host PM Erna Solberg, during which the two sides held that the bilateral trade and investment have yet to match their potential, and agreed to push for the early completion of the negotiations on the free trade agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association. The two PMs also exchanged ideas on the importance and the need to ensure peace and stability, and to maintain security, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight in the East Sea. All disputes should be settled through peaceful means in line with the international law, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982 and other related agreements of the region. During the visit, PM Phuc also paid a courtesy call to the Norwegian King and had a meeting with the head of the countrys parliament. He also attended the Vietnam Norway Business Forum and affirmed that the Vietnamese Government always go along with Norwegian businesses. The leader received leading officials of Norways major groups. PM Phuc, who is on an official visit to Sweden from May 26-28, also expressed his delight at visiting the European country on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties. He affirmed that the Vietnamese people always remember the precious support by the Swedish people during the anti-American war, as well as in its current national development and global integration. Loefven, for his part, said the visit will create a new driving force for bilateral ties, adding that the Swedish government considers Vietnam an important partner in the region. The two PMs shared view that Vietnam-Sweden ties have thrived in diverse areas at many levels over the past few years, thus tapping each sides strengths. In particular, the visit to Vietnam by Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria on May 6-8 has contributed to cementing friendship and mutual understanding between the two nations. They agreed to facilitate all-level visits and continue effectively implementing bilateral cooperation mechanisms. As bilateral trade-investment ties have yet to match the two nations potential, the Vietnamese PM asked the Swedish government to encourage firms to enhance investment in Vietnam in fields of their strength, such as manufacturing, chemicals, electronics, information and communications, forest plantation, sustainable wood processing, waste treatment, pharmaceuticals, and the support industry for automobiles. They also vowed to increase bilateral partnership in innovation, smart urban development, environment, artificial intelligence, information and communications, and healthcare. Host and guest welcomed the organisation of the Vietnam-Sweden Business Forum in Stockholm during the visit, and affirmed the importance of promoting connectivity among businesses following the Vietnam-Sweden Business Summit held in Hanoi during Crown Princess Victorias visit. The Vietnamese PM asked Sweden to support the Vietnam-European Union (EU) comprehensive partnership. The two PMs promised to work closely together to step up the signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and the EU Vietnam Investment Protection in the coming weeks to bring benefits to both sides. On the occasion, the Swedish government leader presented a letter of intent on an investment credit worth over US$2 billion in Vietnam to his guest. The host also spoke highly of the Vietnamese communitys contributions to prosperity and cultural diversity in Sweden as well as the promotion of bilateral trade and investment. The two sides pledged to boost liaisons at regional and global forums such as the United Nations, the Asia-Europe Meeting, the ASEAN-EU cooperation, as well as join common efforts to cope with global issues, climate change, and ensure sustainable development. They reached a consensus on the importance of the settlement of disputes by peaceful means, ensuring navigation and aviation freedom in line with international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Loefven also accepted Phucs invitation to visit Vietnam with great pleasure. Deputy Minister of Health Nguyen Viet Tien cited the fact that 96.8% of lung cancer patients in Vietnam smoke. Non-communicable diseases contribute to 73% of all deaths nationwide, he said, adding that tobacco use is one of the major causes. Passive smoking is also the cause of lung diseases in children, making them suffer from health problems in adulthood, he said. Luong Ngoc Khue, head of the health ministrys department of medical examination and treatment and director of the tobacco control fund, said 40 cities and provinces nationwide have held meetings in response to the National No Tobacco Week. Smoking bans have been instituted in 1,560 State administrative agencies, 10,000 schools, 4,442 factories, and 508 hospitals. Nearly 70% of trade unions at the grassroots level say no to smoking in the working environment, while 195,000 workers gave up smoking. Seven political parties contested in the elections, said the NEC, adding that they are the CPP, royalist Funcinpec Party, Khmer National United Party, Cambodian Nationality's Party, Cambodian Youth Party, Khmer Will Party, and Khmer Republican Party. The preliminary results, issued by the NEC and announced one polling station by one polling station on the National Television of Cambodia (TVK), showed that the CPP received almost all of the votes in the elections. The NEC said the temporary results will be announced on May 31, as the official ones will be on June 8. The elections opened at 7:00 a.m. local time and closed at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday at all 203 polling stations across the kingdom. NEC's Vice Chairman Nuth Sokhom said 11,565 sitting commune chiefs and councilors, or 99.94 percent of the eligible voters, cast their ballots, as a voter was killed in a road accident and six others were absent without reasons. "The elections were conducted smoothly with good security and order, and without any violence," he said in a press conference at the conclusion of the elections on Sunday afternoon. "The elections were held in a free and fair manner based on the principle of liberal multi-party democracy," he said. Reports from Iran's southeastern Sistan and Baluchistan Province say local people have gathered in front of the governor's office in the provincial capital Zahedan after police shot dead a young man. Police has confirmed the man's death, adding that the number plate on his car was manipulated. The man was being chased by the police, they said. Police officers told reporters that the man was wounded and died at the hospital. Local witnesses say the police were chasing the man, Mousa Shahbakhsh, on charges of not having a driving license. According to the officers, he did not stop at the orders of the police and they shot him. Reports from the city say some 30 people of dozens gathered in protest to the incident have been arrested. Based on videos circulating on social media, angry protesters set fire to a police vehicle. The region is economically disadvantaged and has a substantial Baluchi population of Sunni Muslims who have a tense relationship with Iran's Shiite authorities. Irans vice president announced Monday, May 27 that the government will withdraw another one billion dollars from the National Development Fund (NDF) to create employment. Eshaq Jahangiri reiterated that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has approved the decision. Iran deposits part of its oil income in NDF, to save money for future generations. However, as sanctions have reduced the countrys oil exports and crippled state finances, the government has dipped into the reserve fund to finance urgent needs. In the past, Khamenei has ordered withdrawals from NDF on several occasions to pay for military expenditures, state broadcasting and other needs. But recently he refused a request from President Hassan Rouhani to take money from the fund to pay for damages caused by devastating floods in March and April. The charter of NDF says that part of the oil and gas income is to be saved as capital to produce profits and guarantee the share of future generations from Irans fossil fuel resources. Irans current economic development plan prescribes saving 34 percent of oil and gas income, but as new U.S. sanctions hit Iran hard in the past year, Khamenei ordered to reduce that share to 20 percent in the current budget. However, Irans oil exports have been reduced to less than a million barrels per day by U.S. sanctions and its oil export income cut proportionately. Iranian parliaments research center has forecast that in the current Iranian calendar year the national reserve fund will not grow, as little money will be added, and some withdrawals will be inevitable. Iran struggled this year to come up with a budget, parts of which remain opaque. Jahangiri on Monday admitted that U.S. sanctions might lead to more budgetary pressures. Other officials have predicted oil income to be reduced by close to 70 percent. Iran mainly depends on oil revenues, which constitute 33-40 percent of its publicly disclosed budget. Many believe that some military, security and intelligence needs are financed outside of the official budget. This includes expenditures to support proxy forces, such the Hezbollah and Houthis in Yemen. In this years budget Iran had planned to use $30 billion from fossil fuel export revenues, of which $24 billion was supposed to finance the budget and the rest saved in the NDF. But with dwindling exports, it is doubtful that Iran can earn even the minimum oil income to support its budget. The United States imposed sanctions on Irans oil exports in November but allowed some friendly countries to buy a limited amount for six months, which expired May 1, without renewal. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has voiced support for Irans proposal to conclude a non-aggression pact in the Persian Gulf region. Mohammad Javad Zarif suggested during his visit to Iraq May 25-26 to conclude the pact as a way of reducing tensions in the region. Interfax news agency quoted Lavrov as saying, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif's proposal on concluding a non-aggression pact between the countries of the region [...] this would be a first step toward an easing of tensions, and we view such an agreement as the right one". Lavrov claimed that the initiative was discussed with the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf. Although Zarif discussed his proposals with Iraqi leaders during his visit, but there have been no reports of reactions from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which regard Iran as a hostile power. Iran arms and finances proxy forces in Iraq, Yemen, Syria and Lebanon, which many Arab countries regard as intervention in the internal affairs of these Arab countries. Zarif has not explained the details of the non-aggression pact he has proposed, and it is not clear if it would address the issue of Irans proxies. The U.S. has also demanded Iran to end its interventions in the region, as one of its main demands for ending pressures against Tehran. As news reports indicate Japan's prime minister is preparing for a trip to Iran and meetings with top officials, Iran's foreign ministry on Tuesday said that Tehran currently does not see "a prospect for negotiations". Spokesperson of the ministry, Abbas Mousavi confirming that the date of Shinzo Abe's visit is being coordinated, reiterated that "Iran has no plans to negotiate with any U.S. official", and added, "we do not need any channels" and "for now we have no special message for anyone". Mousavi, however called Abe's trip a "turning point" and said Iran would "wait and see" before deciding on any offers of negotiations. At the same time, Iran's influential Revolutionary Guard said Tuesday it doesn't fear a possible war with the United States and claimed that America hasn't grown in power in recent years the latest tough talk from Tehran amid escalating regional tensions and a crisis with Washington. "The enemy is not more powerful than before," said the Guard spokesman, Gen. Ramazan Sharif. Speaking at a press conference in Tehran, Sharif said the Guard doesn't "support engaging in any war" while at the same time it doesn't "fear the occurrence of a war." "We have enough readiness to defend the country," he said, adding that Iran has boosted its military power over the past 30 years. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif appeared unimpressed with Japan's offer to mediate in the crisis, saying Trump should make his intentions clear about any talks with Iran through actions, not words. Zarif said in a late Monday tweet: "Actions_not words_will show..." Iran has said it has no interest in negotiations with Washington following Trump's pullout from the nuclear deal and the re-imposing of sanctions on Iran. Zarif in his tweet also blamed Trump's economic pressure on Iran for the regional tensions. Japanese media have reported that Abe is considering a visit to Iran next month. The Kyodo News agency, citing unidentified government sources, said Friday that Abe's visit would be likely in mid-June. Earlier this month, Zarif visited Tokyo. The U.S. also has accused Iran of being behind a string of incidents this month, including what officials allege was sabotage of oil tankers off the coast of the United Arab Emirates and a rocket that landed near the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, while Yemen's Iranian-aligned Houthi rebels launched a string of drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia. A Dubai-based, government-aligned newspaper criticized Zarif in a rare front-page editorial Tuesday. The Gulf News piece, headlined "No thank you, Mr. Zarif," dismissed his recent offer of forming a nonaggression pact with Gulf Arab nations and said the countries are not buying Zarif's "nice neighbor routine." The paper says Iran "continues to call for the overthrow of Arab governments, sends its agents to spy and sabotage, aiming at spreading chaos in Gulf countries, such as Bahrain and Kuwait and more recently off Fujairah and in Saudi Arabia." "Nobody wants war in this region," the newspaper added. "But Iran should instead focus on its daunting internal problems which cannot be resolved by constantly fomenting aggression against our countries." The UAE is part of a Saudi-led coalition that has waged war on Yemen's Houthi rebels since 2015, backed by Iran. Tehran, however, denies arming the Houthis. Reporting by AP, Radio Farda, DPA Baku, Azerbaijan, May 28 Trend: Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports referring to the Azerbaijani presidential press-service. "Dear Ilham Heydar oglu, accept my sincere congratulations on the occasion of national day of Azerbaijan, the Republic Day. Your country has been confidently moving forward along the path of socio-economic development, and plays an important role in addressing topical issues on international agenda," President Putin said. "Russia highly appreciates the relations of strategic partnership with Azerbaijan. I`m sure that through our joint efforts we will continue to successfully develop fruitful bilateral relations in all areas and constructive interaction in ensuring regional stability and security. Undoubtedly, it meets the best interests of our friendly nations." "Dear Ilham Heydar oglu, I wish you the best of health and success, and all citizens of Azerbaijan prosperity and well-being," he added. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 28 Trend: Willem-Alexander, King of the Netherlands has congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. "The celebration of your national day gives me an opportunity to extend to Your Excellency my congratulations and my best wishes for a prosperous future for the people of Azerbaijan." President of the Republic of Lithuania Dalia Grybauskaite has congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. "May I extend my congratulations to you and the people of Azerbaijan on the anniversary of the Republic Day. I sincerely wish your country and its people continued welfare, concord and success. I hope that the dialogue between Lithuania and Azerbaijan on bilateral level, as well as in the framework of relations with the European Union will remain open and intense, and opportunities provided by the comprehensive collaboration will result in many more mutual business, trade, science, education, innovation, culture, and tourism activities among our people and will strengthen both states. May I again offer my congratulations on your national day. Please accept, Mr President, the assurances of my highest consideration," reads the congratulatory letter. President of Hungary Janos Ader has send a congratulatory letter to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. "Allow me to congratulate and express my best wishes to you and the people of the Republic of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the Republic Day. It is my great pleasure to note that the cooperation between our countries has been dynamically developing in recent years. Azerbaijan is an important partner for us, with whom we share common historical and cultural ties. I can reaffirm that Hungary remains committed to further strengthening the relations between our countries and expanding our mutually beneficial cooperation. Allow me to wish you good health and further successes in your highly responsible job," reads the letter of the Hungarian president. King of Spain Felipe VI has congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. "On the occasion of the celebration of the national day of the Republic of Azerbaijan, I wish to send to His Excellency, together with the government and the people of Spain, my warmest congratulations. Receive, Mr. President, my best wishes of personal welfare, peace and prosperity for the beloved people of Azerbaijan," reads the congratulatory letter. President of the Peoples Republic of Bangladesh Mohammad Abdul Hamid has sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. "On this auspicious occasion of the Republic Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan it is my great pleasure to convey to you my warm greetings and sincere felicitations. Bangladesh enjoys friendly relations with Azerbaijan. I am confident that our relationship will be further strengthened to fulfill the aspirations of out two peoples. I convey, Your Excellency, my best wishes for your good health, happiness and long life, and for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of the friendly people of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration," reads the letter. President of the Federal Republic of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier has congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. "On my own behalf and on behalf of my fellow countrymen, I extend my best wishes to you and the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the Republic Day. Azerbaijan and Germany enjoy 27 years of dynamic and reliable diplomatic relations. This year we celebrate the 10th anniversary of German Language Training Center in Baku. I`m very glad that Azerbaijan attaches particular importance to German language teaching and German culture. The Goethe Center, which opened in 2018, has strengthened our cooperation in the field of culture even further. Germany is also ready to continue the political dialogue. I extend my best regards to you, and wish the people of Azerbaijan peace, tranquility and prosperity," reads the congratulatory letter of the German president. Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Zurab Pololikashvili has congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. "I wish to congratulate you on the occasion of the Republic Day of Azerbaijan. Allow me to transmit my best wishes for the well-being and prosperity of your country and its people. Your Excellencys personal support to the travel and tourism industry highlights the importance that your Government attributes to tourism as a tool for sustainable socio-economic development and for positioning Azerbaijan as a strong brand in the global tourism arena. Please be assured of UNWTOs continued support for your endeavors. I am convinced that the excellent relations between Azerbaijan and UNWTO will continue to grow and prosper in the years to come. Furthermore, I look forward to the honor of your presence in the framework of the 110th Session of the UNWTO Executive Council in Baku on June 16-18 2019. Wish my renewed congratulations, please accept, Mr President the assurances of my highest consideration," reads the congratulatory letter. Tehran, Iran, May 28 Trend: Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif will visit Azerbaijan in coming weeks, the country's foreign ministry spokesperson Sayyed Abbas Mousavi told Trend. "The foreign minister's visit to Baku is on the agenda. The exact date of the visit hasn't been set yet. Probably, the trip will take place in the coming weeks," said the spokesperson. He said that the purpose of the trip is to discuss bilateral and regional issues. "This is the new initiative of the Islamic Republic with its northern neighboring countries. With the aim of strengthening bilateral relations and convergence of goals, we are going to start discussions with the northern neighbors of Iran. The foreign ministry is currently in the process of negotiating with several Asian countries to set up a foreign minister's visit, said Mousavi. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 28 Trend: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, first lady Mehriban Aliyeva and family members have today toured the Baku Seaside National Park. During the tour, the head of state and first lady met with local residents and the guests of the city. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 28 By Aysham Rustamova - Trend: Starting in 2020, only farmers who sow certified seeds will receive subsidies related to grain production in Azerbaijan, Vugar Huseynov, Head of the Public Relations and Information Department of Azerbaijan's Ministry of Agriculture, told Trend. Huseynov noted that the ministry will change the rules for the allocation of subsidies. "After approval of the rules, subsidies will be issued only to farmers using certified seeds. In this regard, explanatory work is already underway. The Krasnodar-99 super elite wheat seeds, imported last year by the Ministry of Agriculture, proved high yields. Very good yields were observed even on non-irrigated lands," he said. Huseynov also added that the main task of the ministry in this regard is to increase both the average and the total yield. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 28 By Kheyraddin Nasirzade - Trend: Fitch Ratings has affirmed Azerbaijan-based Expressbank Open Joint Stock Company's Long-Term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at 'B' with a Stable Outlook, Trend reports referring to the rating agency. The bank's short-term IDR was affirmed at 'B', the viability rating was at 'b', and the support rating was at '5'. The affirmation of Expressbank's ratings reflects its reasonable asset quality, weak profitability, solid capital buffers, limited exposure to foreign-exchange risks and comfortable liquidity. The ratings also take into account the bank's very high level of related-party lending and a limited franchise in Azerbaijan's challenging operating environment. IFRS 9 Stage 3 loans stood at a moderate 4.5% of gross loans at end-2018 and at 63 percent were adequately provisioned by specific reserves, based on management disclosures. The bulk of these loans were concentrated in the SME (small and medium enterprises) portfolio. Although SME loans amounted to only 8 percent of total loans, almost half were impaired. Fitch Ratings noted that Expressbank is hampered by weak revenue generation, high operational costs and high loan impairment charges. Pre-impairment profit weakened to 0.3 percent of average assets in 2018. However, the agency notes that Expressbank is well capitalised. The bank's FCC ratio decreased to 41% at end-2018 from 59% at end-2017 due to negative net income and loan-driven growth of risk-weighted assets. The regulatory Tier 1 ratio was a lower 21% at end-1Q19 due to a partial deduction of the related-party exposures, while the total capital ratio was 23%, both comfortably above the respective minimums of 5 percent and 10 percent," the agency said. Fitch noted that Expressbank is funded by customer accounts (83% of liabilities at end-1Q19) with the majority of funds raised from individuals (63% of liabilities). Corporate accounts decreased by 67% in 1Q19 due to repayment of funds to a large depositor. The buffer of highly liquid assets (cash and equivalents, net short-term interbank placements and placements with the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, including short-term bonds) decreased significantly but remained comfortable, equal to 26% of customer funding at end-1Q19. "Rating upside for Expressbank would require substantial franchise and financial profile strengthening, and a material reduction of related-party transactions," Fitch Ratings noted. Expressbank, which was established in 1989, is among 20 leading banks in Azerbaijan. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @1nasirzade Baku, Azerbaijan, May 28 By Sara Israfilbayova Trend: The International Finance Corporation (IFC) aims to continue supporting Azerbaijan in "unleashing the power of its private sector" through strategic reforms that help attract investment, Jan van Bilsen, IFC Regional Manager for the South Caucasus, told Trend. According to van Bilsen, the corporation also aims to support Azerbaijan in improving competitiveness and driving sustainable growth. "As part of those efforts, last week IFC signed cooperation agreements with Azerbaijans ministries of Economy and Agriculture as well as the Food Safety Agency," he said. He noted that these agreements will be of great importance for the achievement of all goals. According to the regional manager, the purpose of the cooperation is to help ease doing business and attract investment to Azerbaijans non-oil economy. Van Bilsen went on to say that IFC will support Azerbaijan in attracting investments - particularly foreign direct investment in the non-oil sector, and support diversification. "As agriculture is one of the main sources of jobs in Azerbaijan, the industry needs to be competitive, both at home and abroad," van Bilsen noted. The regional manager also said that the sector faces a number of challenges. Value chains, for example, need further development; similarly, food safety management system needs to be further enhanced. "To address existing challenges, our aim is to help streamline regulations and modernize the national food safety management system," van Bilsen noted. The IFC has been supporting the private sector of Azerbaijan for over 20 years, having invested $500 million over the past period. Some $350 million worth of investments were directed to trade financing, and investments were also made in the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 28 By Matanat Nasibova - Trend: In April 2019, prices for commercial facilities increased in Baku, Nusret Ibrahimov, real estate expert and Director General of the consulting company MBA Group, told Trend. According to the expert, in April 2019, prices for commercial facilities in Baku increased by 2.51 percent compared to the same month last year. "So, in April 2018, one square meter of commercial facilities was sold at the price of 2,637 manats, but in April 2019, this figure increased to 2,703 manats," Ibrahimov said. According to expert's estimates, there has also been an increase in the cost of land plots. "In April 2018, the average price for hundred square meters of land was 21,502 manats, but in April 2019, it increased by 4.48 percent to 22,466 manats. At the same time, prices for low-rise buildings in April 2019 decreased by 1.2 percent compared to the previous month and increased by 4.9 percent compared to the same period of 2018," he added. The expert noted that a slight increase was observed in the prices of summer houses. "In April 2019, prices in this market segment rose by 1.2 percent compared to March 2019, and by 2.3 percent compared to 2018," Ibrahimov added. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @MatanatNasibova Baku, Azerbaijan, May 28 By Fakhri Vakilov Trend: President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier held talks in narrow and expanded formats, Trend reports citing Uzbek media. During the meeting at Kuksaroy residence in Tashkent, the Uzbekistan capital, the parties underlined the important role of the parliaments of the two countries in supporting multidimensional cooperation and sharing experience. The Presidents thoroughly discussed the issues of further expansion of the political, trade, economic, investment, financial, technical, cultural and humanitarian cooperation, as well as the international and regional agenda. The parties assessed the current state of trade and economic cooperation and identified priority areas for its expansion. It was noted that in 2018, the volume of mutual trade grew by 25 percent and exceeded $770 million. Nowadays, more and more German companies express interest in the Uzbek market. Measures for the preparation and acceleration of joint investment projects and programs were analyzed and identified. A consistent political dialogue is maintained between Uzbekistan and Germany. As reported, the efforts of Uzbekistan to strengthen stability in the region, promote the peace process in Afghanistan, and overcome the consequences of the Aral Sea disaster are highly appreciated in Berlin. The parties expressed their readiness to continue to provide mutual support within the framework of international organizations. Prospects for interaction in the format of Uzbekistan - European Union were also discussed. Issues of countering terrorism and extremism and strengthening security cooperation were also considered. The presidents welcomed the launch of the Uzbek-German consultations on Afghanistan to promote socio-economic, investment and infrastructure projects in this country. The parties reaffirmed the mutual commitment to the development of full-scale cooperation and the proximity and coincidence of positions on all the issues discussed during the negotiations. --- Follow the author on Twitter:@vakilovfaxri Huawei is turning to the Asian market, namely South Korea, Japan and Taiwan, to surpass the difficulties the company is facing after US corporations, such as Google and Microsoft as well as major semiconductor makers, including Intel, Qualcomm, Xilinx and Broadcom, cut ties with the Chinese tech giant, Trend reports citing Sputnik. Representatives of the Chinese company arrived last Thursday to South Korea to meet executives from Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix and LG Display and discuss long-term supply contracts for smartphones parts, Huawei Korea said on Monday. The results of the recently introduced US sanctions against Huawei are already showing up, especially on the second-hand market. Thus, British used-phone vendor musicMagpie is selling the company's second-hand P30 Pro model that went on the market a month ago at one-ninth of the price of a new one. On 15 May, Trump issued an executive order, essentially banning Huawei from the US market for purportedly posing a national security risk. Huawei has recently faced allegations that the company is linked to the Chinese government and has spied on its behalf. Although both Huawei and the Chinese government have firmly denied these claims, Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the United States banned Huawei from participating in government contracts in 2018. The European Union will not renegotiate the Brexit deal that Prime Minister Theresa May agreed, Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said on Tuesday, as concerns grew that a successor to May could trigger a confrontation with the bloc, Trend reports citing Reuters. Brexit is up in the air after May announced plans to step down, triggering a leadership contest in the ruling Conservative Party that could bring a new prime minister to power who wants a much more decisive break with the EU. One of the candidates, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, said it would be political suicide to pursue a no-deal Brexit, a reprimand to frontrunner Boris Johnson who said last week that Britain should leave with or without a deal by the end of October. Hunt, who voted to stay in the EU in the 2016 referendum but now accepts Brexit, said he would try for a new agreement that would take Britain out of the EU customs union while respecting legitimate concerns around the Irish border. The EU, though, said there would be no renegotiation. I will have a short meeting with Theresa May, but I was crystal clear: There will be no renegotiation, Juncker said before a meeting of EU leaders in Brussels. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said he believed the risk of Britain crashing out of the bloc without any divorce agreement was growing. Well I think there is a growing risk of a no deal. Theres a possibility that the new British prime minister may try to repudiate the withdrawal agreement, he told reporters. Any successor to May will have to accept that the Brexit divorce deal she agreed will not be ratified by the current British parliament so they will have to find a solution to the Irish border issue that upset many lawmakers. Many Brexit supporters opposed her deal because of a backstop that requires Britain to adopt some EU rules indefinitely unless a future arrangement is found to keep open the land border between Northern Ireland and Ireland. Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah called for unity in the country to safeguard its security, Trend reported citing Xinhua. During a speech on the occasion of the last 10 days of the holy month of Ramadan, the emir said the delicate situation in the region requires cautiousness and social unity to maintain the state's security and people's safety. "The bitter reality of the region, its dangerous dimensions and consequences ... calls upon us ... to be cautious and ready to protect the safety and security of our country," he noted. Sheikh Sabah also highlighted the importance of national unity in protecting the country at the turbulent time, calling for constructive cooperation between legislative and executive powers. In addition, he highlighted the government's efforts to empower the youth and increase their contributions to the state's building and social development. The economic programs "aim at diversification of national sources of income, and creating productive job opportunities for the young people," the Kuwaiti emir explained. Speaking of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), he pointed to its pivotal role in countering dangers and overcoming regional challenges. "We assure that sticking to our Gulf community and keeping the privileges we have achieved within the frame of the GCC will be the security that enables us to face dangers and challenges," he noted. Austrian President Alexander van der Bellen announced on Monday that he will release the government led by Chancellor Sebastian Kurz from duties on Tuesday, Trend reported citing Sputnik. Earlier in the day, the lower house of the Austrian parliament passed a motion of no confidence against Kurz and his government amid the scandal involving Kurz's coalition partner, the Freedom Party of Austria (FPO), whose former leader Heinz-Christian Strache was taped discussing potentially exchanging government contracts against help with election. "I entrust Vice Chancellor Hartwig Loger to head the Federal Chancellery and the federal government," van der Bellen said at a press conference. Loger will officially head the Austrian government on Tuesday and represent Austria at the EU Summit in Brussels in the evening. Earlier in May, some of the major German media reported, citing a video recording made during a July 2017 meeting in Ibiza, Spain, that an alleged niece of an oligarch from Latvia offered Strache to give FPO money and help them with press support ahead of the parliamentary election, while Strache reportedly offered government construction contracts in return. As a result of the scandal, Strache resigned as the vice-chancellor and the leader of FPO Strache said that the woman involved in the scandal was a Russian-speaking Latvian citizen. He also described the situation as a trap and "political assassination." The European Council "firmly rejected" the claim that the EU car exports threaten the U.S. national security, an official said, Trend reported citing Xinhua. "The (European) Council welcomes the U.S. decision to postpone tariffs on imported cars by 180 days, but firmly rejects the notion that EU car exports are a national security threat to the U.S.," said Stefan-Radu Oprea, minister for business environment, trade and entrepreneurship of Romania, at a council meeting concerning trade issues. "The EU is ready and willing to engage in constructive talks," he added. In April, the European Council approved mandates for the European Commission to open negotiations with Washington on the elimination of tariffs for industrial goods and on conformity assessment, in line with a joint statement published by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and U.S. President Donald Trump in July 2018. On May 17, Trump signed a proclamation setting a six-month deadline for the United States to reach a deal with the EU and Japan to "address the threatened impairment of the national security with respect to imported automobiles and certain automobile parts." German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron disagreed on Tuesday over who should be the next chief of the European Commission as EU leaders met to begin bargaining over candidates for the blocs top jobs in the next five years, Trend reports citing Reuters. An EU-wide election last week returned a European Parliament with a splintered center and gains by pro-EU liberals and Greens as well as eurosceptic nationalists and the far right, making agreeing a coherent agenda for the bloc more tricky. We wont choose Mr. or Ms. Europe today, but just draw a balance after the European election, Luxembourgs liberal prime minister, Xavier Bettel, said ahead of the meeting of 28 national leaders in Brussels. Held once every five years, the EU election means the heads of major EU institutions will now be replaced. Merkel said on arrival at the gathering that she backed center-right German lawmaker Manfred Weber to be the next head of the EUs powerful executive, the European Commission, after Luxembourgs Jean-Claude Juncker steps down on Oct. 31. Macron pushed back minutes later, listing the EU competition commissioner, Denmarks Margrethe Vestager, the blocs Brexit negotiator, center-right Frenchman Michel Barnier, and Dutch Social Democrat Frans Timmermans - but not Weber - as appropriate candidates. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, also mooted as a possible contender in the obscure recruitment process, said Tuesdays meeting was about content rather than people. It was also, he said, about agreeing policy priorities for the coming years, including climate change, economy and migration. The center-right European Peoples Party (EPP) and the center-left Socialists & Democrats (S&D) group were reduced to 326 seats together in the new, 751-strong chamber in Sundays vote, 50 short of the majority needed to determine by themselves who should head the Commission, as they had in years past. Other big roles up for grabs later this year include the head of the European Parliament and the European Central Bank, the blocs foreign policy chief and the head of the European Council who represents leaders of the 28 EU member states and helps broker compromises among them. The EU would risk an institutional logjam if talks drag on, leaving it unable to make pivotal policy decisions at a time when it faces a more assertive Russia, Chinas growing economic might and an unpredictable U.S. president. Leaders of a majority of parties in the newly elected chamber called on Tuesday on national government leaders to nominate a lawmaker to replace Juncker. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would continue to try and resolve a deadlock in a coalition crisis and form a new government, after parliament took an initial move to dissolve itself, Trend reported citing Reuters. In the time left I will continue to act in every way possible in order to establish a government in the coming days, Netanyahu said in a televised speech, ahead of a Wednesday deadline to form a new government. Iran sees no prospect of negotiations with the United States, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, a day after U.S. President Donald Trump said a deal with Tehran on its nuclear program was possible, reports Trend citing to Reuters Washington withdrew last year from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Tehran, and is ratcheting up sanctions in efforts to strangle Irans economy by ending its international sales of crude oil. Trump said on Monday: I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal, and I think thats very smart of them, and I think thats a possibility to happen. Asked about Trumps comments in a news conference in Tehran, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi was quoted as saying by the semi-official Fars news agency: We currently see no prospect of negotiations with America. Iran pays no attention to words; What matters to us is a change of approach and behavior. Trump also said that United States was not looking for regime change in Iran, adding that we are looking for no nuclear weapons. Iranian Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri said on Tuesday the country was not allowed to pursue the development of nuclear weapon as this was banned by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Irans highest authority. Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States since Washington deployed a carrier strike group and bombers and announced plans to deploy 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict. Violence in northwest Nigeria has forced around 20,000 refugees to seek safety in neighboring Niger since April, the United Nations refugee agency said on Tuesday, reports Trend citing to Reuters Military, police and state security forces have been deployed to northwest Nigeria in recent months to tackle criminal gangs behind a spate of killings and kidnappings. Security forces are already stretched tackling the decade-long insurgency by terrorist group Boko Haram in the northeast. This is not Boko Haram related in any way, UNHCR spokesman Babar Baloch told a media briefing. People are reportedly fleeing due to multiple reasons, including clashes between farmers and herders of different ethnic groups, vigilantism, as well as kidnappings for ransom, he said. He said people were fleeing to Niger, which lies to the north, due to the surge in crime in the Nigerian states of Sokoto and Zamfara. Zamfara is the state worst hit by the uptick of violence that has killed dozens of people since the start of the year. The surge began last year, when it prompted the deployment of the air force and 1,000 security personnel to the state. Nigerian authorities in April suspended mining in Zamfara amid concerns that illegal miners were connected to a rise in banditry. Hungary is preparing legislation to strip the Hungarian Academy of Sciences of its research network, giving the government more control over scientific activity, reports Trend citing to Reuters Hungarys oldest and largest academic institution, the Hungarian Academy (HAS) is solely funded by the government but self-managing, with a network of scientific research bodies employing about 5,000 people. Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Hungarys right-wing leader, has tightened control over the countrys courts, media, economy, education and now scientific research. His aggrandizing measures have triggered criticism from the European Union. A months-long tussle between Orbans government and academics resisting the reforms is moving towards its final stages with the impending submission of a bill to parliament in the coming weeks, index.hu said citing the draft legislation. No one from the government was immediately available for comment. The overhaul, which Budapest said was needed to reap more economic benefits as Hungary tries to shift towards more innovative industries, has triggered protests from civil groups and academics. A resolution passed by the Academy earlier this month said it disagreed with what it called the political motivation for the arbitrary restructuring of the institutional network. The academy, which carries out scientific research using a network of specialized research institutions, receives 40 billion forints ($137.27 million) a year from the government. Index said the government proposal would move all the research units into a new public institution with a 13-member governing board comprising six government and six academy delegates. Orban would appoint the chairman based on a joint proposal by the board. That would go against calls by scientists for only a third of board members to be picked by the government. Index also said a new National Scientific Policy Council chaired by Innovation and Technology Minister Laszlo Palkovics, the architect of the academic overhaul, would make the proposals for main areas of research to be funded. The legislation would force the academy to hand over the buildings and assets of its research institutions to the new state-run organization, the report said. Six members of a family were shot dead by unknown gunmen in Nigeria's north-central state of Plateau, a police spokesperson told Xinhua Tuesday, Trend reports citing Xinhua. The incident took place on Monday night when unidentified gunmen broke into the house of a family and killed members in Nakai Danwal village in Riyom area of the state, Terna Tyopev, the state police spokesperson said in Jos, the state capital. According to him, a top police officer in charge of operations had visited the scene for assessment and deployed more armed personnel to the community in order to avert any reprisal attack. Tyopev called on members of the public with useful information that could aid investigations into the killing to come forward and assist the police. The state, located in Nigeria's middle belt where the Muslim-dominated north and the Christian-majority south meet, has witnessed constant rifts between locals and Fulani herdsmen. Many, especially women and children, have been murdered in previous attacks. KYODO NEWS - May 29, 2019 - 09:03 | All, Japan Sixteen pupils and two parents waiting with them for their school bus were stabbed by a man wielding knives in Kawasaki near Tokyo on Tuesday morning, leaving a girl and a man dead, police and school officials said. The 16 schoolgirls, students at Caritas Elementary School, a private Catholic school in the city, were attacked by the suspect, identified by police as 51-year-old Kawasaki resident Ryuichi Iwasaki, who was holding knives in both hands. Iwasaki died in the hospital as a result of a self-inflicted stab wound to the neck, police said. A boy also sustained minor injuries in the attack, they added. The police are planning to refer the case to prosecutors for murder and other allegations. The incident occurred at around 7:40 a.m. on a street near a park in a residential area, about 250 meters from Noborito Station on East Japan Railway Co.'s Nambu Line and Odakyu Electric Railway Co.'s Odakyu Odawara Line. Officials of the school, which provides eight morning shuttle buses for students between the station and the school, said the attack occurred as pupils were waiting for the sixth bus. "I was standing at the front of the line of children waiting for the sixth bus, and when I finished helping around six children board, I heard children screaming at the end of the line," Satoru Shitori, vice principal of the school, said in a press conference. Shitori said that was when he saw the suspect, holding what appeared to be long knives, escaping on foot. As the bus driver got off and started to give chase, the vice principal made an emergency call to police, he said. "The children did nothing wrong. I don't know what to do with my anger," another school official said at the news conference. The school will close through the end of this month. According to witnesses, the suspect slowly approached the children and was shouting "I'm gonna kill you" during the rampage. He had close-cropped hair and was wearing glasses. The police retrieved two knives at the scene and found two more in a backpack believed to belong to the suspect. Of the victims, an 11-year-old girl, identified as sixth-grader Hanako Kuribayashi of Tama, western Tokyo, and Satoshi Oyama, a 39-year-old Foreign Ministry official who was the father of an unharmed pupil, died in the hospital from stab wounds to their necks, according to police and hospital officials. Oyama, a Myanmar language interpreter, also sustained cuts to his back, which he might have received while trying to protect the children, the investigative sources said. Two girls and a woman in her 40s sustained serious injuries in the attack, the police said. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said the government "must ensure children's safety by all means." He instructed the education minister and the chairman of the National Public Safety Commission to check on safety measures taken while elementary and junior high school students are commuting. Caritas school officials met the press after convening an emergency meeting with pupils' parents in the afternoon. The school operator was founded by Soeurs de la Charite de Quebec, an organization of Catholic nuns in Quebec City in Canada, according to the school's website. Pools of blood were left at the scene, cordoned off by investigators. "I heard a man and a woman screaming," said a 50-year-old woman who lives in the neighborhood. "I rushed out of my house and saw many ambulances." Knives are among the most commonly used weapons in random attacks in Japan, where tight gun controls are in place. Major violent rampage cases in Japan in the recent years: Sept. 8, 1999 -- Man attacks pedestrians with a knife and hammer in Tokyo's Ikebukuro district, killing two and injuring six. Sept. 29 -- Man kills five people and injures 10 after driving a car into a crowd at JR Shimonoseki Station in Yamaguchi Prefecture before stabbing passersby. June 8, 2001 -- Knife-wielding man enters an elementary school in Ikeda, Osaka Prefecture, killing eight students and wounding 15 other pupils and teachers. March 23, 2008 -- Man stabs pedestrians with a knife near a shopping mall in Tsuchiura, Ibaraki Prefecture, leaving one man dead and seven others injured. June 8 -- Man kills seven people and wounds 10 after mowing down pedestrians with a truck in a vehicle-free zone before going on a stabbing spree with a knife in Tokyo's Akihabara district. June 22, 2010 -- Former temporary worker of automaker Mazda Motor Corp. hits employees with a car at a plant in Hiroshima Prefecture, leaving one man dead and 11 wounded. July 26, 2016 -- Former employee of a residential mental health care facility in Sagamihara, Kanagawa Prefecture, stabs residents and employees, killing 19 disabled people and injuring 26 others. In connection with the US sanctions imposed on Huawei, Google announced the termination of cooperation with the Chinese tech giants, which was one of the most unexpected and discussed the news of recent days. At the same time, it does not look like Huawei plans to simply put up with it, the company bravely took the blow and is already taking the necessary steps to protect its users. Recently, Huawei is in talks with Aptoide to replace the Play Store application on its mobile devices. This news was voiced by Aptoide CEO Paulo Trezentos, while he emphasizes that no final agreements have been reached at the present time. However, there is no doubt about the success of the negotiations, especially if we consider that Huawei representatives have already announced that they are preparing to release an alternative operating system for their smartphones. Currently, Aptoide is already working with other companies, for example with Oppo, while the company is located in Portugal and the bans of the United States Government cannot influence its decisions. Huawei has its own application with programs for its devices, but it includes much less software than Aptoide, which currently has almost a million different applications. also read: Samsung Galaxy A50 price reduced to a great extent, read price, specifications and other details (Millbrae, CA) The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) will celebrate women in science and tech on Wednesday, May 29, 2019 at an intimate awards dinner at Green Hills Country Club, 500 Ludeman Lane, Millbrae, CA, from 6:30-9:00 p.m. AFAR will honor Katy Fike, PhD, Co-Founder, AGING2.0 and Managing Director, Generator Ventures, and Prachi J. Vakharia, Founder, WOMANIUM. Each will receive AFAR's Icon of Aging award. AGING2.0 strives to accelerate innovation to address the biggest challenges and opportunities in aging. Aging2.0's international, interdisciplinary and intergenerational community has grown to 40k+ innovators across 20+ countries. Generator Ventures is an investment platform focused exclusively at the intersection of aging, senior care & technology. The WOMANIUM Foundation increases women in STEM+Entrepreneurship fields by providing girls with educational, experiential and professional opportunities directly in STEM+E. In 2017, WOMANIUM awarded 177 Scholarships to students in 42 countries. Additionally, Ms. Vakharia funded and founded WARPA (Women's Advanced Research Projects Agency) in 2018 to develop and commercialize advanced innovations by Masters, PhD, and Postdoctoral students and researchers. WARPA projects span a range of age-related research and solutions, including computational neuroscience, neural development, neurodegeneration, Augmented AI for the elderly, accessible industrial design & engineering, assistive technologies, satellites and more. "Of the more than 4,100 investigators that AFAR has supported since 1981, more than one half are women," notes Stephanie Lederman, Executive Director. "AFAR is committed to supporting and celebrating the brightest talent, like Katy Fike and Prachi Vakharia, who are advancing innovations in research, services, and collaborations that will help us all stay healthier for longer." AFAR's Icon of Aging award recognizes individuals across the private and community sectors whose personal and professional contributions encourage growing older with vitality. "Like AFAR, WOMANIUM strives to support and encourage young talent in science and research," says Vakharia. "It is invigorating to be honored before an audience of leading scientists and philanthropists committed to the future of healthy aging." The event coincides with two major scientific gatherings in the Bay Area: the International Perspectives on Geroscience Meeting organized by the Nathan Shock Centers of Excellence in the Basic Biology of Aging, a program of the National Institute of Aging NIH, and the annual meeting of the American Aging Association. "I am honored to be recognized by AFAR," says Fike. "The researchers that AFAR has supported inspired my own doctoral work in gerontology, which led me to start Aging2.0 and Generator Ventures in order to catalyze innovation to better serve older Americans." About the Awardees Katy Fike, PhD is a Managing Director of Generator Ventures. Katy is a gerontologist, former investment banker and co-founder of Aging2.0, the premiere global innovation network focused on aging and senior care. Recently named one of Fast Company's 100 Most Creative People in Business, Katy speaks frequently on topics related to innovation and aging in media outlets such as NPR, Bloomberg TV, Wall Street Journal, BusinessWeek, Forbes, Time, PBS NewsHour, TechCrunch, and the Huffington Post. She holds an undergraduate degree in systems engineering from the University of Virginia and a doctorate in gerontology from the USC Davis School of Gerontology. Prachi J. Vakharia lives and works in Washington DC, where she works on Autonomous Vehicles, V2X technologies, digital and shared mobility projects in DC, NY, and LA. Previously, she worked with the WRI, World Bank and also mentors and invests in organizations and startup companies -- 3 of those startups were acquired by Daimler AG (German auto maker of Mercedes Benz) for $100 million in a single deal on a single day. (One of the companies went from powerpoint presentation to product design, launch, expansion, and acquisition in just 9 months.) Prachi also chairs 3 committees for the US National Academies of Sciences Transport Research Board, and was approached by SAE last year to serve as the first Global Chairperson for the development of new worldwide Digital & Shared Mobility Standards with SAE to create new global standards, definitions, and business models for industry, governments, regulators, and academia. Part one was completed in a record time of 10 months! Within these, Prachi advocates for accessibility features and needs for the elderly and disabled to be included in the standards. Having grown up and educated between Asia, Europe, and Americas, Prachi also brings global perspectives, mindset, values, and understanding. Prachi holds a combined degree in Mathematics and Economics from Denison University (USA) and London School of Economics (England, UK). ### About AFAR: The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) is a national non-profit organization that supports and advances pioneering biomedical research that is revolutionizing how we live healthier and longer. For nearly four decades, AFAR has served as the field's talent incubator, providing more than $178 million to more than 4,100 investigators at premier research institutions nationwide. A trusted leader and strategist, AFAR also works with public and private funders to steer high quality grant programs and interdisciplinary research networks. AFAR-funded researchers are finding that modifying basic cellular processes can delay--or even prevent--many chronic diseases, often at the same time. They are discovering that it is never too late--or too early--to improve health. This groundbreaking science is paving the way for innovative new therapies that promise to improve and extend our quality of life--at any age. Learn more at http://www.afar.org or follow AFARorg on Twitter and Facebook. (Adds share price, seeks company comment) TINDOUF, Algeria, May 27 (Reuters) - Algeria's energy minister said on Monday he would seek a "good compromise" when asked about his earlier comments that Algiers would block a plan by France's Total to buy Anadarko's Algerian assets. Occidental Petroleum agreed to sell Anadarko Petroleum Corporation's assets in Algeria, Ghana, Mozambique and South Africa to Total for $8.8 billion if the U.S. oil company succeeds in completing its plan to take over of Anadarko. Algerian Energy Minister Mohamed Arkab said on Sunday that Algiers would block Total's acquisition. Algeria remains wary of investments by firms from its former colonial occupier, although Total signed energy deals with the country in 2018. Anadarko declined to comment and Occidental did not respond to a request for comment on Monday. "Sonatrach needs to maintain good ties with foreign partners to develop its programmes," Arkab told reporters, adding that state-owned Sonatrach would "preserve its interests." "Sonatrach will seek a good compromise," he said about the acquisition, speaking during a visit to Tindouf gas field, 1,700 km south west of Algiers. He did not elaborate. Anadarko holdings in Algeria represent about 260,000 barrels per day (bpd) of oil, more than 25% of the country's crude production estimated at 1 million bpd. Occidental shares traded down 1.4 percent to $52.73 on Monday morning. (Reporting by Lamine Chikhi. Additonal reporting by Jennifer Hiller in Houston. Writing by Ulf Laessing Editing by Edmund Blair and David Gregorio) By Kane Wu, Sumeet Chatterjee and Julie Zhu HONG KONG (Reuters) - Alibaba is considering raising as much as $20 billion through a listing in Hong Kong, people familiar with the matter told Reuters, lining up a second blockbuster deal following its 2014 record $25 billion float in New York. The deal, the biggest follow-on share sale in seven years globally, would give Alibaba a war chest to keep investing in technology - a priority for China as growth flags and as the world's second-largest economy is locked in a mounting trade spat with the United States. The e-commerce giant is working with financial advisers on the offering and is aiming to file an application confidentially in Hong Kong as early as the second half of 2019, three people said on condition of anonymity as the plans are not public yet. While advisers and others close to the deal downplayed any trade war reasoning for the move, analysts said the context and geography could not be ignored. "For Chinese companies listed in the United States, one has to prepare a contingency plan," said Hao Hong, head of research at broker BOCOM International. "Given most of the Alibaba investors are in Asia, it makes sense to come closer to your home base and give investors an option to trade in the same time zone." Last week, Chinese chipmaker SMIC said it was delisting its New York shares in favor of focusing on its Hong Kong listing. Sources with knowledge of Alibaba's plans cautioned that many details were not yet clear, including the final planned size. One person with direct knowledge said it was more likely to be between $10 billion and $15 billion. At $20 billion, Alibaba's deal would be the sixth-biggest follow-on share sale ever, Refinitiv data shows. It would rank behind NTT's 1987 $36.8 billion sale, crisis era offerings of $24.4 billion and $22.5 billion from the Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group, and the $20.7 billion raised by U.S. insurer AIG in 2012. Story continues A spokesman for Alibaba declined to comment. SoftBank Group, Alibaba's largest investor, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Japanese tech investor has a 28.8% stake, worth $115.7 billion, in Alibaba after it sold a small part of its original holding via derivatives to fund its acquisition of chip designer ARM in a transaction that completes next month. SoftBank founder and CEO Masayoshi Son is a close friend of Alibaba founder Jack Ma. Bloomberg was the first to report the plan for a Hong Kong listing. ADDED LIQUIDITY Since its U.S. listing, Alibaba has nearly doubled in size to become the largest-listed Chinese company with a market value of more than $400 billion. A Hong Kong listing would give mainland investors their first direct access to one of China's biggest success stories, via the stock connect trading link between Hong Kong, Shanghai and Shenzhen. It would also give the company an extra pocket of liquidity and potentially a better valuation if the household name became a favorite among retail investors in Hong Kong. A Hong Kong-based analyst said while Alibaba is not in need of cash, the listing could help it improve its access to loans from Asian banks. "It means closer access to Chinese investors, and maybe Chinese investors are more bullish than the global investors in Alibaba," the analyst added. Rival Tencent, which is listed in Hong Kong, is trading at 26 times its expected earnings compared with Alibaba's 22 times in New York, according to Refinitiv data. A Hong Kong listing for Alibaba would come as its 54-year-old founder prepares to step down as chairman in September, handing over the mantle to CEO Daniel Zhang. The company is also expanding into new sectors including cloud computing division and Hema, its chain of brick-and-mortar supermarkets as growth in its core e-commerce business slows. The listing would provide Alibaba with additional capital to fund its new and expensive initiatives, said James Hull, founder of Hullx capital and co-host of the China Tech investor podcast. "Alibaba has strong and growing free cash flow, but they're also pursuing cash-hungry new initiatives," he added. HOMECOMING An Alibaba float would be seen in Hong Kong as a victory, after the city lost the tech giant's initial public offering to New York because its then rules precluded it accepting Alibaba's governance structure, where a self-selecting group of senior managers control the majority of board appointments. Any big listing would also be a bonus to the city's traders. "With such a big market cap, it will enhance the daily trading volume [and] attract more funds into the market - that's exciting many investors," said Steven Leung, a director at UOB Kay Hian in Hong Kong. Trading in Alibaba shares averaged $2.2 billion a day in the first quarter of this year, according to Refinitiv data, compared with the total average daily turnover on the Hong Kong exchange of $12.9 billion in the same period. Hong Kong amended its rules last year to make it easier for "innovative companies" already listed in New York or London to sell shares in Hong Kong, as part of a broader shake up of the city's listing regime. The new rules allow companies based in greater China to list in the city even if their current weighted voting rights structures contravene Hong Kong's rules for primary listings. Such companies can also apply confidentially for a listing, as Alibaba is expected to do. A spokesman for HKEX declined to comment on news of Alibaba's listing plans in Hong Kong. (Reporting by Kane Wu, Sumeet Chatterjee and Julie Zhu in Hong Kong, Josh Horwitz in Shanghai and Saumya Sibi Joseph and Aditi Sebastian in Bengaluru; Additional reporting by Alun John and Donny Kwok in Hong Kong, Sam Nussey in Tokyo and Gaurav Dogra; in Bengaluru; Writing by Jennifer Hughes; Editing by Himani Sarkar) In a story May 20 about teaching consent in the #MeToo era, The Associated Press misidentified the description of programs that stress abstinence in sex education taught by the group Ascend. The group teaches "sexual risk avoidance," not "sexual risk aversion." A corrected version of the story is below: Amid #MeToo, states debate teaching consent to kids In the era of #MeToo, lawmakers, educators and teens themselves are re-examining whether sex education needs to evolve to better address some of the issues in society today. By MARYCLAIRE DALE Associated Press Inside a Catholic school in Portland, Oregon, high school sophomores break into groups to discuss some once-taboo topics: abusive relationships and consent. At one desk, a girl with banana-colored fingernails begins jotting down some of the hallmarks of abuse: Physically hurting you, verbally abusive, can be one-sided. She pauses to seek input from her classmates, boys and girls alike, before continuing: "It messes up your mentality and your, like, confidence." For the first time this year, Central Catholic High School, like public schools in the city, is using educators from a domestic violence shelter to teach kids about what it means to consent. The goal is to reduce sexual violence and harassment among teens and help them understand what behavior is acceptable and what's not before they reach adulthood. "We're talking about dating violence, sexual assault, relationships, #MeToo all of those things. I think you have to be intentional about bringing this program into our classrooms," says David Blue, the school's director of diversity and inclusion. "How do you look at all of these constant conversations in our society right now?" What's happening at this Catholic school in liberal Portland represents a larger debate unfolding in blue states and red, as lawmakers, educators and teens themselves re-examine whether sex education should evolve to better address some of the issues raised by #MeToo. Central to the conversation is whether schools should expand curriculums to help kids understand consent a concept often defined differently from state to state. Story continues "#MeToo has brought the issue of consent into the national spotlight, but it's abundantly clear that people still struggle with the culture shift that's happening," said Jennifer Driver, state policy director of the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States, which favors liberal sex ed policies. "When done right, sex education can serve as violence prevention. But first, we have to get these policies (enacted)." Since January, dozens of new sex ed bills have been floated in statehouses, but only five have passed and just two of those require specific instruction about consent, according to the Guttmacher Institute, which tracks sexuality and reproductive health issues. In all, 10 states and the District of Columbia require that consent be part of sex ed curriculum. The states are: California, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, Illinois, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont and Virginia. Meantime, according to Driver's group, 32 states require that abstinence be stressed in schools that teach sex education. And most federal funding for sex ed in recent years has gone to abstinence programs, to the tune of $2 billion since 1981. The divide over how to teach sex ed has long split on the question of whether kids are "sexual beings," said Jonathan Zimmerman, an education professor at the University of Pennsylvania. The pendulum has swung from the explicit information on sex, contraception and sexually transmitted diseases taught amid the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s and 1990s to the abstinence-focused agenda that followed the rise of conservative politics, especially in the Bible Belt. With the #MeToo movement, the pendulum may be inching back, at least when it comes to efforts to curb sexual violence. A few abstinence-focused states, such as Virginia and South Carolina, have added consent to the curriculum. And Oklahoma lawmakers this year considered a bill that would have forced high schools to teach consent. Called "Lauren's Law," the measure was named for a teen who said she was raped at a high school party. The Legislature eventually passed a narrower measure requiring that schools with a sex ed curriculum incorporate teaching about consent. It leaves other districts off the hook, but state Sen. Carol Bush, the Republican sponsor, called it "baby steps." Bush said she raised two daughters in a Christian home but that a background in public health taught her of the need for comprehensive sex ed programs. "I hate that we call it sex ed. It's more that you're a valued person boy or girl and we need to help our children understand that," said Bush, adding the bill was palatable to conservative colleagues because it lets teens know they have the right to say "no" to sex. She believes an increase in the number of women and younger lawmakers this year helped build consensus. As with most issues in education, local school districts play a big role in shaping sex education curriculum, and many state laws on sex ed are intentionally vague. In Cadillac, Michigan, a reliably Republican town of about 10,500 people, school leaders proactively teach consent after the school board voted more than a decade ago to change its sex ed curriculum from "abstinence only" to "abstinence based." These days county prosecutor Jason Elmore regularly visits the town's high school to deliver a sometimes startling message about consent. Speaking to a freshmen health class last month, he patted his chest, lower abdomen and inner thighs while explaining that anyone under 16 cannot engage in sexual contact there without committing a crime "even if it's a boyfriend or a girlfriend." Elmore let the concept of who can do what with whom sink in as the students sat silently. Then he explained what it means for sexual contact to be "freely and honestly given" and how alcohol and marijuana are often involved in cases he sees. In the past year alone, he told the class, he's prosecuted a half-dozen sex-related cases involving Cadillac students. "In this school?!" one bewildered boy exclaimed. A 2017-18 survey found that 15 percent of Cadillac ninth-graders and 55 percent of 11th-graders said they'd had sexual intercourse. And 1 in 10 said they'd been hit by a dating partner. Health teacher Cathy Booher believes more students today understand what it means to give consent and respect boundaries. But inevitably, not long after Elmore's class, she said: "A week or two later, we've had an incident." In Tennessee, where the state mandates an abstinence-based curriculum, some teenagers are leading their own discussions about consent. The state's sex ed law, known as the 2012 "Gateway Law," not only prohibits the discussion of sexual activities that stop short of intercourse so-called "gateway sexual behaviors" it imposes $500 fines on instructors who wade into the topic. In Memphis, students who are part of the advocacy group Memphis Against Sexual Harassment and Assault have lobbied the school district to fill its Title IX director's job, conducted peer training on consent, organized "Survivor Power Coffee Hours," and taken part in a "Memphis Says No More" poster campaign designed to promote awareness about sexual harassment and violence. The school board has agreed to distribute the posters in all middle and high schools this fall, the teens said. These issues are personal to youth leaders Devin Dearmore and Savanah Thompson. Dearmore, 18, said she was sexually harassed by a staff member before transferring high schools. Thompson, 15, said she was catcalled, groped, pinned against a locker by another student and later blamed for it in eighth grade. "I think there's this thing in the South that you just don't talk about things provocative things," Thompson said. "We're being taught all of these things preparing us for college . but they're not teaching you how to cope with things that can derail your life. ... That's where our school system and school systems nationwide have failed us. In middle and elementary school, I didn't know I could say no." Some who oppose teaching consent believe it signals an approval of teen sexual activity. Mary Anne Mosack, who runs an abstinence education group called Ascend, said her group has been talking about consent for years but in the context that "avoiding sex is your best option." Ascend has trained some 1,500 instructors to teach what it calls "sexual risk avoidance" in public and private schools, clubs, foster homes and more. Measures like Tennessee's "Gateway Law" are not meant to chill discussion on important issues, Mosack said, but to limit those that stray too far into supposed safe-sex topics such as "naked cuddling" and "showering together." "In Tennessee and in other states, too, people were looking at those kinds of topics that were being presented, and felt they were inappropriate," she said. Critics of abstinence-based programs say they shut down urgently needed conversations. And if they are meant to curtail sexual activity in places like Tennessee, the results appear questionable. A study last month in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that Memphis was first among 17 metro areas surveyed in the rate of boys engaged in preteen sex. The survey found 1 in 4 boys have sex before their 13th birthday. As for teaching students to delay sex until marriage, Columbia University researcher John Santilli considers that unreasonable in a country where just 3 percent of people do so. "Abstinence until marriage in America in 2019? It's an impossible goal," said Santilli, who studies pediatrics and population health and said that more than half of Americans have sex before leaving high school. "On the other hand, I think we ought to tell young people if they're not ready to have sex with people, if they've had too much to drink, if they somehow feel uncomfortable with somebody, they can say no. To me, that's feminism in action." He led a recent study that found teaching "refusal skills" in high school can cut the chances someone is raped in college in half. In Oregon, Central Catholic High Principal John Garrow hoped to balance students' need for information with the Roman Catholic creed on abstinence before marriage. He evaluated several programs before choosing Raphael House, whose mission includes work with sexual and domestic assault survivors. "We're trying to do our best to follow the teachings and at the same time be realistic, because as a school you lose your relevance real quickly if you're not real," Garrow said. In the sophomore wellness class in April, two Raphael House instructors asked students to consider signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships. Does your partner make you feel valued? Stupid? Scared? "It, like, opened my eyes," said Ramaya Wright, 15. "I didn't know those are a lot of the signs of an abusive relationship." Julia Tycer, a Raphael House educator, said consent comes into play not just in dating relationships but in all of our interactions, every day. "It's never really too early to be talking about consent," she said. "Practicing consent is really just asking, 'Are you OK?'" ___ Contributing were AP reporter Gillian Flaccus from Portland, Oregon, and AP National Writer Martha Irvine from Cadillac, Michigan. Dale, who reported from Philadelphia, writes about gender issues and #MeToo for The Associated Press. Follow her at https://twitter.com/Maryclairedale It was a happy National Hamburger Day for plant-based meat company Beyond Meat (BYND). Shares gained more than 7% in trading Tuesday as the company announced plans to begin producing its meatless products at a European plant in the Netherlands by next year and major firms initiated coverage on the high-flying stock. While Beyond Meat short sellers may have been hoping for a bevy of bad news, notes from the top analysts initiating coverage on the El Segundo, California-based startup were mostly neutral. Credit Suisse, Jefferies, Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Goldman Sachs each initiated the company with Neutral ratings, with Goldman analyst Adam Samuelson projecting a $67 price target. JPMorgan delivered the strongest bull case of the day by initiating Beyond Meat with an Overweight rating, calling the companys upside extraordinary and projecting a 12-month price target of $97 a share. Analyst Ken Goldman added that he expects EBITDA to turn positive by years end. In other words, Beyond is not a startup that can sell a lot of product but make no money; it is a legitimate manufacturer that, in our view, has a clear path to bottom-line and cash flow success, he wrote. Beyond Meat shares closed at $86 Tuesday compared to the average analyst consensus price target of $71.34, according to Bloomberg data. Shares have gained more than 240% since the company priced its initial public offering at $25 per share earlier this month. Investors cheering JPMorgans optimism had more reasons to expect Beyond Meat might be able to keep up that momentum after the company announced plans to complete its first manufacturing facility outside the U.S. by the first quarter of 2020. By partnering with Dutch processor Zandbergen World's Finest Meat, the company said it expects to reduce its transportation footprint and increase distribution speed. The consumer response in Europe has been very positive and we look forward to being able to better serve those customers with locally produced products, Beyond Meat Executive Chairman Seth Goldman wrote in a statement. Story continues Meatless burgers drive foot traffic Meanwhile, Beyond Meats meatless rival Impossible Foods proved the potential benefits for restaurants in the U.S. adding meatless options to their menus. According to a report from inMarket inSights, foot traffic at Burger King locations that added the meatless Impossible Whopper to their menus outperformed other locations by a whopping 18.5% during the April test period. That might explain why Burger King has since opted to rollout the vegan option nationwide. Jefferies analyst Kevin Grundy posited that a similar partnership between McDonalds and Beyond Meat could give the companys share price a 30% boost. JPMorgans Goldman also highlighted that former McDonalds CEO Don Thompson sits on Beyond Meats board and has about a 5% stake in the company. At McDonalds annual shareholder meeting last week, Global Chief Marketing Officer Silvia Lagnado said the company had no immediate plans to add meatless options but was monitoring consumer demand. Perhaps the boost its rival has seen by adding Impossible Foods patties might force its hand. For now, Beyond Meat already has national partnerships with Carls Jr. and TGI Fridays and notched a 169% year-over-year growth rate in 2018. Beyond Meat is slated to give investors an updated growth picture when it reports earnings for the first time as a publicly traded company on June 6. Zack Guzman is the host of YFi PM as well as a senior writer and on-air reporter covering entrepreneurship, startups, and breaking news at Yahoo Finance. Follow him on Twitter @zGuz. Read more: Blue Moon's creator launched a cannabis beer that sold out in 4 hours Sam Adams founder Jim Koch says the Dogfish Head merger is about more than beer RIO DE JANEIRO, May 28 (Reuters) - Federal prosecutors in Brazil criticized compliance standards at Brazilian bank Banco Bradesco SA on Tuesday, after requesting that a court issue an arrest warrant for two branch managers allegedly involved in a money laundering scheme. "The evidence collected here doesn't leave any room for doubt that the financial institutions where these accounts were opened, particularly Banco Bradesco, did not comply with compliance standards," federal prosecutors in Rio de Janeiro said. Bradesco said in a statement that it will make itself fully available to authorities and will investigate the accusations when they become "officially available". (Reporting by Pedro Fonseca and Gram Slattery Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) By Ricardo Brito and Gram Slattery BRASILIA/RIO DE JANEIRO, May 28 (Reuters) - Brazil's Supreme Court is set to issue on Thursday a key decision that could hold up billions of dollars of divestments by oil company Petroleo Brasileiro SA and other state-run firms. Dias Toffoli, the president of the Supreme Court, known as the STF, has included in the court's Thursday agenda a discussion of whether some privatizations by state-run firms need congressional approval and need to be carried out via an auction. If the court decides that those requirements must be met, it could throw into flux major planned sales by Petrobras, as the company is widely known, such as the sale of eight refineries, which it said could fetch some $15 billion, and the sale of its Araucaria Nitrogenos fertilizer unit. It would also hold up the sale of Petrobras' TAG gas pipeline unit, which it agreed to sell to France's Engie SA in April for $8.6 billion. In June 2018, Supreme Court Minister Ricardo Lewandowski issued a preliminary opinion saying the "sale of shares in public companies, of mixed capital firms and of subsidiaries requires previous legislative authorization." However, key asset sales later got the go-ahead from Brazil's slightly lower Supreme Judicial Court, or STJ, and from Brazil's solicitor-general. On Monday, another STF minister, Edson Fachin, issued a decision upholding Lewandowski's decision, calling the STJ decision contradictory. The decision, issued in response to a lawsuit brought by a union, concerns the TAG pipeline sale, but Petrobras' upcoming divestments are also likely to be affected given their similarities to the TAG sale. Fachin's decision led Toffoli, the court president, to schedule the Thursday hearing. Petrobras said in a statement that it was studying the Monday decision and would take actions to defend its interests. The firm stressed the importance of divestments in reducing its indebtedness. (Reporting by Gram Slattery Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) FILE PHOTO: A general view of the Canary Wharf financial district in London, Britain October 24, 2017. REUTERS/Kevin Coombs/File Photo LONDON (Reuters) - Fallout from Brexit has helped New York overtake London to become the world's pre-eminent financial centre, a survey of financial executives by Duff & Phelps showed on Tuesday. The consultants said their annual Global Regulatory Outlook survey contacted 180 executives in asset management, private equity, hedge funds, banking and brokerage. They were asked where they think the top financial centre is located. More than 60% of responses were from Britain and the United States, with the rest mainly from Hong Kong, Ireland, Singapore and Luxembourg. Just over half of respondents now see New York as the world's top financial centre, up 10% from 2018, while 36% see London as the leader, down 17% from last year. "Last year, Brexit cast a shadow of uncertainty over the United Kingdoms economy; it has now escalated to a full-blown crisis," Duff & Phelps said. "Looking ahead, however, globalisations diffusion of influence begins to be apparent: 12% of respondents expect Hong Kong to be the worlds preeminent financial centre five years from now." British government ministers said last week that the UK financial sector would emerge stronger from Brexit. Duff & Phelps said Dublin, Frankfurt and Luxembourg also fared better this year as the European Union's financial industry searches for a new hub. Britain's departure from the EU has already been delayed twice, with the next deadline set for Oct. 31, and uncertainty over future bilateral trade relations has prompted banks, asset managers and insurers to set up operations in the bloc to maintain links with customers. (Reporting by Huw Jones; editing by John Stonestreet) Illumina (ILMN) is the $45 billion leading developer of life science tools and integrated systems for large-scale analysis of genetic function and variation. Their technology is responsible for generating more than 90% of the worlds sequencing data. You may have experienced Illumina technology if you ever ordered a DNA testing kit from a company like 23andMe or Ancestry. ILMN is back in the upper tiers of the Zacks Rank after another beat and raise quarter that prompted Wall Street analysts to raise their estimates. More on the company's growth numbers coming up after we step back to see the scope of their efforts. The Century of Biology Requires Powertools for Discovery Ever since the human genome was mapped nearly 20 years ago, an explosion of scientific discovery has been unleashed with many hundreds of public and private companies, universities, and research institutes working to better understand life and cure disease. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), the cost to sequence a genome has fallen from $10 million in 2007 to under $1,000 today. And this economic access has fueled the rise of more scientists seeking to do more research that wasn't even thought of a decade ago. When I think of role of this unique tool-maker in "the century of biology," I search for powerful metaphors to describe its reach and impact. If genetics is a great ocean, then Illumina is Queen Isabella of Spain, launching fleets of explorers to discover new worlds. Once given the exploration, mapping, and conquest tools to do so, explorers would only need more of them to harvest and mine the riches of new lands. And that as we shall see, is exactly what has happened with Illumina's powertools -- the more reach and impact they give genetic explorers, the more exploration that is initiated and, thus, the more demand for its products occurs. Honestly, I should have bought Illumina for Healthcare Innovators in 2017 when it was trading $200. But I didn't understand the company's impact, much less their valuation trading over 10X 2017 sales of $2.75 billion and 50X EPS of $4.00. Plus, Wall Street's (lazy) analysts underestimated the growth story too, with the average Street price target around $225 at the time. Story continues Then the stock went on a tear in 2018 after a Q1 41% EPS beat in April, launching shares from $240 to $360+ in five months! Every slight pullback was a tempting opportunity, even at 13-14X sales and 55-60X EPS. And we got a big second chance right before Q2 earnings when the stock got whacked from all-time highs above $315 back down to $290. Time to Board the Starship Illumina Then this past September, I really started paying attention to the Illumina story and doing my homework. At over $360 per share, ILMN was trading for over 15X next 12-month's sales (about $3.5 billion) and over 60X EPS (about $6). I told my followers "I don't think you need to rush out and pay that right now." But I also advised "Long-term healthcare investors should be buyers between $320 and $340. And obviously, you would add on any bigger dips to $280-300 if a market correction of any magnitude should bless you with such an opportunity." We obviously got those opportunities to start a position near $320 and add under $300 during the recent volatility and I would still recommend those buy levels. Especially as the stock now trades under 11X next year's projected sales of $4.3 billion. The main reason we did is because the growth rates have slowed considerably. Last year saw 20% sales growth and a 40% EPS advance. But this year is projected to see only 13% topline growth and 17% on the bottom. And yet long-term growth investors are still accumulating ILMN shares near $300 because the visibility for the next two years is so strong. Here is the Zacks proprietary Price & Consensus chart, which plots changes in annual EPS estimates (lhs) against the stock price... Who Is Illumina and What Do They Do? As a California startup in 1998, Illumina was born toward the tail end of the scientific revolution we call the Human Genome Project, an international collaboration of dozens of universities and research centers around the globe. That was the same year that Craig Venter of Celera Genomics started his quest to complete the massive sequencing task faster and cheaper. Their initial products enabled researchers to explore DNA at an entirely new scale, helping them create the first map of gene variations associated with health, disease, and drug response. With each technological breakthrough, they helped scientists better understand genetic variation at all levels of complexity. Ever since, Illumina has developed one of the worlds most comprehensive genomics portfolio of integrated systems, consumables, and analysis tools. The company provides a line of products and services that serve the sequencing, genotyping and gene expression and proteomics markets. Proteomics is the large-scale study of proteins, the basic building blocks of life. According to industry research firm MarketsandMarkets.com, "The global proteomics market is projected to reach $21.87 billion by 2021, at a CAGR of 11.7% from 2016 to 2021... significant growth is propelled by the increasing need for personalized medicine, R&D expenditure, technological advancements, and increased funding for proteomics projects." Here's how Illumina describes their mission in all of their markets.. "While the rate of progress is accelerating exponentially, we are only beginning to understand the clinical significance of the genome. What causes a cancer cell to mutate? What is the origin of a puzzling disease? Is it possible to prevent the next outbreak? Or safeguard the worlds food supply? These are just a few of the challenges that inspire us to push the boundaries of our imagination. "We strive to make our solutions increasingly simple, more accessible, and always reliable. As a result, discoveries that were unimaginable even a few years ago are now becoming routine and are making their way into patient treatment. "We now have the ability to sequence at an unprecedented scale. Collectively, this will give us a much deeper understanding of genetics than ever before. We will begin to truly unlock the power of the genome. These advances will trigger a fundamental shift in healthcare and beyond. Medicine will continue to become more preventive and more precise. We will be healthier, longer. We have only just begun. "Our customers include a broad range of academic, government, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and other leading institutions around the globe." With less than half of one percent of the world's population touched by a genetic test of some kind, Illumina is filling a huge need with their fast and precise technologies. Here's a look at the "array" of Illumina customers... The NASA of Biotechnology From the above perspective on Illumina's customers, maybe ocean exploration is too limited a metaphor. The better comparison might be space. And that would make Illumina the NASA of genetics, providing aerospace-grade discovery tools. Let's look at a list of their different NASA-grade exploration powertools... NovaSeq Sequencing Systems HiSeq X Sequencing Systems HiSeq Sequencing Systems NextSeq Sequencing Systems MiSeq Sequencing System MiSeqDx Sequencing System MiSeq FGx Forensic Genomics System MiniSeq Sequencing System iSeq System iScan Array Scanner The NovaSeq product (pronounced Nova-seek) is the company's latest advanced sequencing tool which costs over $980,000. Here's how the excellent biopharma writer over Forbes, Matthew Herper, described the path of Illumina's business in 2017... Illumina, the largest maker of DNA sequencers, is launching a new DNA sequencer with new architecture it says could push the cost of decoding a human genome from $1,000 to $100 -- although that decrease will not come for years. This is good news, affirming that the field is still so healthy that price-plummeting is still considered good for business, says George Church, the Robert Winthrop Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School. The new DNA sequencers, called the NovaSeq 5000 and the NovaSeq 6000, could be about 70% faster than existing machines, by Churchs math -- [which is not really a big increase in this exponential field as you can tell by the cost-drop of sequencing in the last decade]. But Illumina promises rapid increases as new parts and software upgrade the machines, meaning that by the end of the year the machines will be six times faster than its predecessors. In fact, with special offers from some of the direct-to-consumer companies, we have seen the cost of limited genetic testing come down to $99. But these are not fully medical-grade diagnostic tests like those offered by Invitae (NVTA). The Moore's Law of Biotech So even as Illumina makes genome sequencing cheaper, their business still grows fast into a giant addressable market. This is similar to chip-makers like Intel creating empires even as semiconductors get smaller, faster, and cheaper. You are living in the fourth industrial revolution where extremely rapid innovation and disruption are driven by exponential technologies like artificial intelligence and genetic sciences. Bottom line: You could think of ILMN a lot like NVIDIA (NVDA). They make the powertools that get scientists, engineers, and other explorers really excited to go to work every day. And the more those folks discover in the outer reaches of their favorite frontier -- the earth, the brain, the galaxy, or the genome -- the more demand they have for the ever-evolving tools that got them that far. Disclosure: I own ILMN shares for the Zacks Healthcare Innovators portfolio. Looking for Stocks with Skyrocketing Upside? Zacks has just released a Special Report on the booming investment opportunities of legal marijuana. Ignited by new referendums and legislation, this industry is expected to blast from an already robust $6.7 billion to $20.2 billion in 2021. Early investors stand to make a killing, but you have to be ready to act and know just where to look. See the pot trades we're targeting>> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Invitae Corporation (NVTA) : Free Stock Analysis Report NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) : Free Stock Analysis Report Illumina, Inc. (ILMN) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research (Adds statement from LATAM, Chile's Supreme Court) SANTIAGO, May 23 (Reuters) - Chile's Supreme Court on Thursday struck down a proposed deal on routes between carriers LATAM Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways and Iberia, upending an agreement meant to reshape international air travel in Latin America. The decision comes more than two years after the carriers announced their plans, termed a joint business agreement. At the time it was seen as a bold move to save costs, coordinate prices and run routes more efficiently, but also raised antitrust concerns. "We are in the presence of an agreement between competitors ... who individually each have relevant market shares and who would acquire a joint market power that would be hard to challenge in a post-deal scenario," four judges wrote in their decision. LATAM said in a statement it was "surprised" by the decision and that it was a "step backward" for Chile. The carrier added it was considering continuing to pursue the deal, but without the involvement of Chile. Authorities in Uruguay, Colombia and Brazil all approved the deal last year, which does not involve any transfers of money between the airlines. LATAM shares closed 0.34% higher in Santiago, in line with the broader Chilean benchmark index. The decision in Chile, which applies to the four OneWorld carriers, could also spell trouble for a separate group of airline competitors in the Star Alliance grouping, which had announced a similar deal of their own to take on the LATAM alliance. In late 2018, U.S.-based United Airlines, Colombia's Avianca Holdings and Panama's Copa Airlines announced a joint business agreement to share routes across Latin America. That deal is also awaiting regulatory approval, but is at a much earlier stage. Chilean consumer advocacy group Conadecus appealed the initial regulatory approval last October over concerns it could increase fares but lower quality on routes. (Reporting by Erik Lopez; writing by Dave Sherwood and Marcelo Rochabrun; editing by Jonathan Oatis, Sandra Maler and G Crosse) New data showed the number of Chinese visitors to the U.S. is dropping as cities and other tourist hubs are looking for ways to reverse the movement. Data from the National Travel and Tourism Office found travel from China to the U.S. fell 5.7 percent in 2018 to 2.9 million visitors. It marked the first time since 2003 that Chinese travel to the U.S. slipped from the year prior, The Associated Press reported. The trade war between the U.S. and China could be one of the contributing factors of the tourism drop. The U.S. now has a 25 percent tariff on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports, while China has retaliated with tariffs on $60 billion of U.S. imports. Another reason for the decline could be in wake of China issuing a travel warning for the U.S. last summer, telling its citizens to beware of shootings, robberies and high costs of medical care. The U.S. later struck back by issuing a warning to Americans about travel to China. Another possible reason behind the tourism decline is economic uncertainty in China, which is leading many citizens to either travel closer to home -- like to Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan, for example. Those who do travel may be seeking out more exotic destinations like Croatia and Nepal, according to Wolfgang Georg Arlt, the director of the Chinese Outbound Tourism Research Institute said. Chinese travel to the U.S. has been leveling out after it boomed earlier in the decade. In 2000, 249,000 Chinese visited the U.S. That number tripled to 802,000 by 2010, then tripled again by 2015, in part because of higher incomes, better long-haul flight connections and an easing of visa restrictions, according to consulting firm McKinsey. In 2016 and 2017, more than 3 million Chinese visitors came to the U.S., but year-over-year growth edged up just 4 percent in 2017 -- the slowest pace in more than a decade. Most industry-watchers agree that any downturn is temporary, since China's middle class will only continue to expand. The U.S. government forecasts Chinese tourism will grow 2 percent this year to 3.3 million visitors, and will reach 4.1 million visitors in 2023. Story continues Overall, international travel to the U.S. has decreased. Data for 2018 hasnt been released yet, but international travel to the U.S. fell 2 percent in 2016 and was flat in 2017. However, Chinese travelers contribute to the highest tourism traffic to the U.S. and any decline will be felt by destinations that have relied on the Chinese spending power. Spending by Chinese visitors which doesnt include students has increased more than 600 percent between 2008 and 2016 to nearly $18.9 billion. To hold on to that money, experts said the U.S. tourism industry must do more to keep up with Chinese travelers and their changing needs. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX BUSINESS APP Larry Yu, a professor of hospitality management at George Washington University, noted Chinese tourists, especially young ones, plan trips using social media apps such as WeChat and have adopted to smartphone-based payment systems. They also tend to not travel in big tour groups. Some tourist spots have began adapting to these new developments. The Beverly Center mall in Los Angeles, for example, used to cater to large crowds of people but has now shifted its focus to smaller groups of 10 or less. The mall has pushed its stores to offer China UnionPay, a digital payment service. Washington, D.C. became the first American city to launch an interactive guide in WeChat. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Related Articles L-R: Nils Lofgren and Neil Young; Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images In April, Nils Lofgren released a new solo album titled Blue with Lou, which includes new recordings of several unreleased songs he co-wrote with Lou Reed in the late 1970s that he's currently supporting with a U.S. tour. But the longtime E Street Band member also has been working on a what he describes as a "beautiful" new record with Neil Young and his backing band, Crazy Horse. The project came about after Lofgren rejoined Crazy Horse, with whom he played during the 1970s, for several shows last year. "We'd done [some] spot shows that were beautiful, and talked about maybe doing some more shows in the fall, late summer," Nils explains to ABC Radio. "But then out of the blue, [Neil] called and said, 'Look, I've been writing all these new songs. I know you've got a record coming out and a tour. Is there any chance you can get up to Colorado to record for a couple of weeks?'" It was something Lofgren says he "had to do," so he headed to Colorado for a few weeks in April shortly before launching his solo trek. "It's beautiful, as always," Nils says of the album. "Neil's one of our great writers. And we may continue the recording in later in summer." In late April, Young posted a note about the Crazy Horse album on his website, in which he revealed he hoped to release the album in the fall and support it with a tour. "Hey, whatever comes, I've been blessed," Lofgren tells ABC Radio about the prospect of playing more with Young and his band. Nils' solo tour runs through a June 2 show in Dallas. Here are all of his remaining dates: 5/30 -- Austin, TX, 04 Center 5/31 -- Houston, TX, The Heights Theater 6/1 -- Beaumont, TX, Jazz & Blues Fest -- Jefferson Theatre 6/2 -- Dallas, TX, The Kessler Theater Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. New data from ongoing Phase 2 open-label extension of lenabasum in systemic sclerosis and open-label extension data in dermatomyositis studies to be presented Presentation includes data from some systemic sclerosis subjects who have finished two years dosing with lenabasum Norwood, MA , May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Corbus Pharmaceuticals Holdings, Inc. (CRBP) (Corbus or the Company) today announced the presentation of six abstracts at the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) 2019 Annual Meeting being held June 12-15, 2019 in Madrid, Spain. Summarized below are the abstract titles that have been selected for oral or poster presentations. The EULAR abstracts are available online at the conference website . Information from the EULAR presentations are under embargo until June 12, 2019. Once the posters are made public, they will be available on the Company's website in the Scientific Conferences section. Oral Presentations: Abstract #OP0069: Performance of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Combined Response Index in diffuse cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis (CRISS) Score in Phase 2 Trial of Lenabasum in diffuse Cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis (dcSS) Oral Session: Myositis and SSc: Clinical Highlights 2019 Date and Time: June 12, 2018, 5:25 PM 5:35 PM CET Presenting Author: Robert Spiera, M.D., Director of the Vasculitis and Scleroderma Program at the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City and Principal Investigator of the Phase 2 and Phase 3 studies in systemic sclerosis Abstract #OP0241: Safety and Efficacy of Lenabasum in an Open-Label Extension of a Phase 2 Study of Lenabasum in Refractory Skin-Predominant Dermatomyositis (DM) Subjects Oral Session: SSc and Myositis Novel Therapeutic Options Date and Time: June 14, 2018, 10:40 AM 10:50 AM CET Presenting Author: Victoria Werth, M.D., Professor of Dermatology and Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine and Principal Investigator of Corbus' Phase 2 study in Dermatomyositis Story continues Abstract #OP0325: Safety and Efficacy of Lenabasum in an Open-Label Extension of a Phase 2 Study in Diffuse Cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis Subjects (dcSSc) Oral Session: Cannabis for arthritis: hype or hope? Date and Time: June 14, 2018 at 4:45 PM 4:55 PM CET Presenting Author: Robert Spiera, M.D., Director of the Vasculitis and Scleroderma Program at the Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City and Principal Investigator of the Phase 2 study in systemic sclerosis Poster Presentations: Abstract #FRI0334: Performance of the Scleroderma Skin Patient-reported Outcome (SSPRO) in a Phase 2 Trial with Lenabasum Date and Time: June 14, 2018 at 11:45 AM 1:30 PM CET Presenting Author: Ada Man, M.D., University of Manitoba Winnipeg, MB, Canada Abstract #SAT0303: Design of Phase 3 Study of Lenabasum for the Treatment of Dermatomyositis Date and Time: June 15, 2018 at 10:30 AM 12:00 PM AM CET Presenting Author: Victoria Werth, M.D., Professor of Dermatology and Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine and Principal Investigator of Corbus' Phase 3 study in Dermatomyositis Poster Tour: Abstract #FRI0307: Lenabasum, a Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptor Agonist, Reduces CD4 Cell Populations and Downregulates Type 1 and 2 Interferon Activities in Lesional Dermatomyositis Skin Poster Tour: Clinical Science Highlights SSc and Myositis Date and Time: June 14, 2018 at 11:50 AM 1:30 PM CET Presenting Author: Kristen Chen, B.A., pre-doctoral fellow in the laboratory of Victoria Werth, M.D., Professor of Dermatology and Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine About Lenabasum Lenabasum is a rationally-designed, oral, small molecule that selectively binds as an agonist to the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2). CB2 is preferentially expressed on activated immune cells, fibroblasts, muscle cells, and endothelial cells. In both animal and human studies conducted to-date, lenabasum has induced the production of Specialized Pro-resolving lipid Mediators (SPMs) that activate endogenous pathways which resolve inflammation and speed bacterial clearance without immunosuppression. Lenabasum is also believed to have a direct effect on fibroblasts to limit production of fibrogenic growth factors and extracellular connective tissue that lead to tissue fibrosis (scarring). Data from animal models and human clinical studies suggest that lenabasum can reduce expression of genes and proteins involved in inflammation and fibrosis. Lenabasum has demonstrated promising activity in animal models of skin and lung inflammation and fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Lenabasum is also active in animal models of lung infection and inflammation in cystic fibrosis and joint inflammation and scarring in rheumatoid arthritis. Lenabasum has demonstrated an acceptable safety and tolerability profiles in clinical studies to date. Lenabasum treatment was associated with improvement in multiple physician-assessed and patient-reported efficacy outcomes in Phase 2 studies in patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc and skin-predominant dermatomyositis. ACR CRISS score was the primary efficacy endpoint in the Phase 2 study of lenabasum in diffuse cutaneous SSc and showed a greater treatment effect in subjects who received lenabasum compared to placebo in that study. Lenabasum treatment also was associated with a lower rate of and longer time to pulmonary exacerbations in a Phase 2 cystic fibrosis study. Additional clinical studies are being conducted and/or planned to confirm these results and support applications for regulatory approval. About Corbus Corbus Pharmaceuticals Holdings, Inc. is a Phase 3 clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of novel therapeutics to treat inflammatory and fibrotic diseases by leveraging its pipeline of endocannabinoid system-targeting synthetic drug candidates. The Company's lead product candidate, lenabasum, is a novel, synthetic, oral, selective cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) agonist designed to resolve chronic inflammation and fibrotic processes. Lenabasum is currently being evaluated in systemic sclerosis, cystic fibrosis, dermatomyositis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Corbus is also developing a pipeline of drug candidates from more than 600 novel compounds targeting the endocannabinoid system. The pipeline includes CRB-4001, a 2nd generation, peripherally-restricted, selective cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) inverse agonist. Potential indications for CRB-4001 include NASH, among others. Corbus plans to start a Phase 1 study of CRB-4001 in 2019, intended to be followed by a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded proof-of-concept Phase 2 study. For more information, please visit www.CorbusPharma.com and connect with the Company on Twitter , LinkedIn , and Facebook . Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain 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 and Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, as amended, including those relating to the Company's product development, clinical and regulatory timelines, market opportunity, competitive position, possible or assumed future results of operations, business strategies, potential growth opportunities and other statement that are predictive in nature. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the industry and markets in which we operate and management's current beliefs and assumptions. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking expressions, including, but not limited to, "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "estimate," "potential, "predict," "project," "should," "would" and similar expressions and the negatives of those terms. These statements relate to future events or our financial performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include those set forth in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Corbus Pharmaceuticals Contacts: Ted Jenkins, Senior Director, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications Phone: +1 (617) 415-7745 Email: ir@corbuspharma.com Lindsey Smith, Associate Director, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications Phone: +1 (617) 415-7749 Email: mediainfo@corbuspharma.com Jenene Thomas Jenene Thomas Communications, LLC Phone: +1 (833) 475-8247 Email: crbp@jtcir.com Source: Corbus Pharmaceuticals Holdings, Inc. (Bloomberg) -- Forget drones. The future of deliveries may be robo-vans. A Chinese startup called Neolix kicked off mass production of its self-driving delivery vehicles Friday -- saying its the first company globally to do so -- and has lined up giants such as JD.Com Inc. and Huawei Technologies Co. as customers. Neolix expects to deliver a thousand of the vehicles, which resemble tiny vans, within the first year as it broadens out. The implications are potentially huge: Billionaire Jack Ma predicts there will be 1 billion deliveries a day in China within a decade and the commercialization of the technology could provide lessons for autonomous vehicles carrying passengers. Neolix isnt alone in this space as Silicon Valleys Nuro raised almost a billion dollars this year and is starting to deliver groceries in Arizona. Driverless cars will change the world, just like the shift from the carriage to the automobile, Neolix founder Yu Enyuan, 45, said in an interview at his office in Beijing. I have been looking for something that is worth fighting with everything I have and what I am doing now is that. Yu has been testing more than a hundred of the vehicles in enclosed areas such as Chinese campuses. The vehicles are priced similar to a regular car -- a Neolix van costs about $30,000. The entrepreneur, who was previously and inventor of smart tools for the logistics industry, said delivery of goods is just the start. Down the road, he envisages fleets of robo-vans providing everything from 24/7 mobile vending to help with running errands. His confidence stems from the Chinese e-commerce boom thats spawned Goliaths such as Mas Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., which is valued at $400 billion. While humans are trying to keep up and becoming more efficient with inventions such as smart lockers, theres no doubt robots are becoming an increasing threat. With robo-vans, theres no need for a messenger who will need a salary, and robo-vehicles are bound to have fewer accidents than humans. Story continues One limitation: either a human needs to be present to accept the package, or the vehicle has to leave the parcel at a prearranged accessible location such as a ground-floor locker. One solution proposed by Ford Motor Co. is a small robot that walks on two legs to bring the parcel from the vehicle to the doorstep. While self-driving cars that carry passengers still face significant regulatory obstacles, Yu says the path has been easier for unmanned delivery vehicles. The companys vans are operating in the new Xiongan economic zone about 100 kilometers (60 miles) southwest of Beijing, as well as in limited areas of the capital and the city of Changzhou. Chinas not the only place where robo-deliveries are emerging. In the U.S., large self-driving trucks are hauling mail between Phoenix and Dallas, and Nuro started a robo-delivery service with grocer Kroger Co. in Scottsdale, Arizona, in December. As to Yu, he decided to expand into driverless vehicles in 2016 from logistics products including smart lockers and digital assistants for delivery personnel. He is the largest shareholder of closely held Neolix. Other investors include Autohome Inc. founder Li Xiang, venture-capital firm Yunqi Partners and Glory Ventures. Neolixs initial production line in the eastern city of Changzhou has an annual capacity of more than 30,000 vehicles, and the company plans to set up factories overseas with partners when sales ramp up, Yu said. Neolix is talking to potential customers in countries including Switzerland, Japan and the U.S. and targets annual sales of 100,000 units in five years. We want to start with the smallest product, Yu said. When robotaxis really enter our daily lives, we may already have over a million self-driving delivery vehicles in use, and makers of those vehicles will be a key driver behind the autonomous-driving technology. To contact Bloomberg News staff for this story: Tian Ying in Beijing at ytian@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Young-Sam Cho at ycho2@bloomberg.net, Ville Heiskanen For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. Washington, D.C.--(Newsfile Corp. - May 28, 2019) - The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that Erin E. Schneider has been named Director of the San Francisco Regional Office. Ms. Schneider joined the SEC staff in 2005 as a staff attorney in the San Francisco office. She was promoted to Assistant Regional Director of the Enforcement Divisions Asset Management Unit in 2012 and then to Associate Regional Director of the San Francisco office in 2015. In her new role, Ms. Schneider will lead a staff of more than 125 enforcement attorneys, accountants, investigators, and compliance examiners involved in the investigation and prosecution of enforcement actions and the performance of compliance inspections in the Northern California and Pacific Northwest region. This region covers a unique, multi-faceted and dynamic set of market participants. During her career with the SEC, Ms. Schneider has investigated or supervised dozens of enforcement matters involving a variety of securities law violations, including cases against: Elon Musk, CEO and former Chairman of Silicon Valley-based Tesla Inc., for defrauding investors through a series of false and misleading tweets about a purported potential transaction to take Tesla private, and Tesla for failing to have required disclosure controls and procedures relating to Musks tweets Theranos Inc., its founder and CEO Elizabeth Holmes, and its former President Ramesh Sunny Balwani for raising more than $700 million from investors through an allegedly elaborate, years-long fraud in which they exaggerated or made false statements about the companys technology, business, and financial performance Washington-based Barrett Business Services Inc. and its former CFO for allegedly manipulating accounting records to hide from investors the fact that certain expenses were increasing relative to revenue The former CEO of a Silicon Valley-based fiber optics company for insider trading in his companys stock by using secret brokerage accounts which generated more $2 million in illicit profits and losses avoided Burrill Capital Management and G. Steven Burrill for misappropriating more than $4 million from their San Francisco-based biotech venture capital fund I am pleased that Erin has agreed to take on the important role of leading the talented and dedicated group of women and men in our San Francisco Regional Office, said SEC Chairman Jay Clayton. For nearly 15 years, Erin has worked tirelessly with her colleagues in San Francisco and across the Commission to protect our markets and our Main Street investors. Her skills as a leader and extensive experience, including in issues relevant in the Silicon Valley region, will serve the Commission and investors well. Story continues We are looking forward to working with Erin in her new position, and we are confident that under her leadership the San Francisco Regional Office will continue its track record of bringing complex enforcement actions, said Stephanie Avakian, Co-Director of the SECs Division of Enforcement. In more than 14 years at the SEC, Erin has handled a broad range of noteworthy cases, said Steven Peikin, Co-Director of the SECs Division of Enforcement. She has demonstrated strong leadership, technical expertise, and sound judgment, and we believe she will be an outstanding leader of our San Francisco Regional Office. Through her time at the SEC, Erin has shown her commitment to protecting investors and tackling the difficult and complex issues in the financial markets, said Pete Driscoll, Director of the SECs Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations. The examination program will benefit greatly from Erins vast legal and accounting expertise and her dynamic and collaborative leadership. Ms. Schneider said, Its a privilege to have been selected to serve in this new role in San Francisco. Over my career at the SEC, I have been continually impressed by the commitment, integrity, and enthusiasm demonstrated by the San Francisco examination and enforcement staff every day. I look forward to continuing and building upon San Franciscos strong tradition of proactive and productive efforts to protect investors. Prior to joining the SEC staff, Ms. Schneider worked as a litigation associate in the Washington D.C. and San Francisco offices of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, and as an auditor at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. Ms. Schneider earned her bachelors degree in business administration from the University of California at Berkeley in 1995, and her law degree cum laude from the University of Californias Hastings College of the Law in 2001. Germany's Manfred Weber is among the European Commission presidential candidates. Credit: AP Photo/Olivier Matthys Negotiations over the top posts in the European Union kicked off on Tuesday in Brussels in the aftermath of parliamentary elections across the bloc. The 28 heads of member states, including UK prime minister Theresa May, will meet at a dinner hosted by European Council president Donald Tusk tonight. They will begin the process of selecting the presidents of the EUs commission, the parliament and council. The process could be more fraught after the two core groups in the European parliament the centre-right European Peoples Party (EPP) and the centre-left Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D) group failed to form a majority in EU elections. The success of the Greens and the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats puts them in a more powerful position to disrupt the nominations. Germany and France are already butting heads over the lead candidate (Spitzenkandidat) system, in which the top, or chosen, candidates from the largest party are automatically appointed to the top jobs. Under that system, the new European Commission president to replace Jean-Claude Juncker, would automatically be EPP leader Manfred Weber from Germany. German chancellor Angela Merkel backs Weber and wants to stick to the lead candidate process, but French leader Emmanuel Macron has indicated that he is not beholden to it. Macron met with Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez on Monday evening, reportedly with the idea of forming an alliance to oppose Weber. Mark Rutte, the Liberal leader of the Netherlands and Charles Michel of Belgium could also back Macron. The commission president has to first be nominated by the EU council and then approved by the EU parliament. Merkel said on Monday that EU leaders should agree quickly on a commission president nominee. We want to find a solution as soon as possible given that the European Parliament will convene at the start of June and it is naturally desirable if by that time we have a proposal from the European Council, she said. Current EU budget commissioner Gunther Oettinger expressed concerns that the new EU commission will not be up and running by 1 November. He told Handelsblatt newspaper that he could envisage the EPP and the Socialists blocking each other and delaying the nomination process. While Amazon has long since ditched its ambitious, controversial plan to build a new campus in Long Island City, the tech behemoth is still making NYC real estate developers salivate. The NY Post reports that the biggest company in the world is considering renting space in new towers a block west of Penn Station: One Manhattan West and the adjacent Two Manhattan West, which is under construction. Last November, after a long, public beauty contest, Amazon announced its intention to create 25,000 new jobs in LIC, a decision sweetened by up to $1.5 billion in New York state subsidies. (It also announced it would build another campus outside of Washington D.C. in Crystal City, Virginia.) But opposition to the deal from activists and some lawmakers, who complained about the closed process, anti-union tactics, and lack of outreach from Amazon, prompted Amazon to scuttle the LIC plans in February. Finger-pointing about who made Amazon cry and take their ball home ensued. However, Amazon still employs thousands of people in NYC, because they want to attract top talent and many of those people want to live in... NYC. According to the Post: The online retailer is seeking at least 100,000 square feet or much more just to start, one well-placed source said. Amazon, which already has 5,000 workers in NYC, had been seriously looking at Two Manhattan West prior to choosing Long Island City in November, a second source said. That interest has returned over the last few weeks, the source added. Brookfield, which owns the two Manhattan West towers (and another at 5 Manhattan West where Amazon is already a tenant), denied through a spokesman that it was leasing to the Seattle company. But multiple sources pointed to the companys strict confidentiality agreements as a potential reason. We dont comment on rumors or speculation, an Amazon spokeswoman said. At Two Manhattan West, Amazon is eyeing space at the top the tower, sources said. The only issue is the building, to be located on 31st Street and 9th Ave., wont be ready for tenants until 2022. Brookfield Properties owns One and Two Manhattan West, but Amazon is reportedly "also considering space in the US Post Office building across the street, known as the James A. Farley building a Vornado development that will boast office space across five levels and will be ready for tenants next May, sources said." Governor Andrew Cuomo, who referred to himself "Amazon Cuomo" during the bidding, called Amazon's premature withdrawal "the greatest tragedy that I have seen since I have been in government." Cuomo then seized "control of an obscure public authorities board" that could have made things difficult if Amazon had tried to get final approval for the deal from NY State. Even if Amazon rents hundreds of square feet in Midtown West, it's not really a big deal for NYC in the eyes of Partnership for New York City CEO Kathryn Wilde, since that part of Manhattan is so built up, unlike LIC. She told the Post, "Frankly, that kind of activity gets lost in Manhattan." Meanwhile, there's another kind of development to which Amazon is contributing: UPS needs a bigger warehouse for all the products New Yorkers are ordering... so the company suddenly began demolition on an 1880s waterfront factory in Red Hook over the holiday weekend. Update: An Amazon spokesperson said, "Thanks for reaching out! We dont comment on rumors or speculation." On the other hand, Amazon has a lot of office space in New York City and its real estate executives, like those at other large companies, probably have constant conversations with real estate firms and developers about how to maximize and/or optimize their space. Think Google and their steady acquisition of Manhattan office space. Dublin, May 27, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Europe Cloud CRM Market by Vertical, Nonprofit, and Country - Forecast to 2024" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Europe CRM Market Size is Expected to Grow from USD 9.0 Billion in 2019 to USD 12.0 Billion by 2024, at a CAGR of 5.86% The strict government compliance and the rise in digitalization are major factors expected to drive the growth of the Europe cloud CRM market. Governments of several countries in Europe have implemented strict compliances for data privacy, many CRM solutions help companies adhere to the data privacy compliances. Among nonprofit sub-verticals, the education sub-vertical to account for the highest market share during the forecast period. Several education institutes in Europe run nonprofit business and CRM is one of the critical factors while running the nonprofit education business. Microsoft has donated USD 1 billion to deliver Microsoft Cloud Services for NPOs and researchers in universities worldwide. Various Microsoft Cloud Services would be provided to around 70,000 NPOs across the globe. CRM Online is one of these services, which would help NPOs manage correspondences with donors and beneficiaries. Among nonprofit sub-verticals, the children and youth sub-vertical to grow at highest CAGR during the forecast period. The children and youth sub-vertical are expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Several NPOs that are focused on the welfare of children and youth are expected to grow in the future. The youth population in various countries is more accustomed to the digital communication media as compared to the earlier generation, hence NPOs working in the area of children and youth are expected to go for the CRM software to manage customer relationships. Among countries, Switzerland to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period Switzerland is expected to hold the highest CAGR among all regions, due to the strict data privacy compliances in the country. In Switzerland, NPOs are mandated to evaluate and publish their activities in annual reports and conduct related research to serve the society effectively. The requirements of effective monitoring, and research and precise evaluation of activities can be achieved with the use of a cloud CRM solution. The adoption of CRM solutions would enable NPOs to collaborate effectively with donors and beneficiaries and better manage and maintain meaningful data and insights. Research Coverage The Europe cloud CRM market has been segmented based on by vertical (nonprofit and higher education), nonprofit (education, research and innovation, social affairs, children and youth, art and culture, and others), and country (UK, Germany, France, and Switzerland). A detailed analysis of the key industry players has been undertaken to provide insights into their business overviews, services, and competitive landscape associated with the Europe cloud CRM market. Story continues Key Topics Covered: 1 Introduction Research Methodology 3 Executive Summary 4 Premium Insights 4.1 Attractive Market Opportunities in the Europe Cloud CRM Market 4.2 Market By Vertical, 2019-2024 4.3 Market By Nonprofit, 2019-2024 4.4 Market By Higher Education, 2019-2024 4.5 Market By Nonprofit Sub-Vertical, 2019-2024 4.6 Market Growth Across Countries, 2019 5 Market Overview and Industry Trends 5.1 Nonprofit 5.2 Pestle Analysis 5.3 Higher Education 5.4 Pestle Analysis 6 Europe Cloud CRM Market: Vendor and Partner Ecosystem 6.1 CRM Vendors 6.2 System Integrators 6.3 CRM-Based App Developers 7 Europe Cloud CRM Market, Nonprofit By Sub-Verticals 7.1 Nonprofit: By Sub-Vertical 7.2 Education 7.3 Research and Innovation 7.4 Social Affairs 7.5 Children and Youth 7.6 Art and Culture 7.7 Others 8 Europe Cloud CRM Market, Country Analysis 8.1 United Kingdom 8.2 Germany 8.3 France 8.4 Switzerland 8.5 Rest of Europe 9 Company Profiles 9.1 Higher Education and Nonprofit Segments 9.1.1 Microsoft 9.1.2 Peoplesoft 9.1.3 Hubspot 9.1.4 SAP 9.1.5 ELCA 9.1.6 1CRM 9.1.7 Gmrit Solutions 9.1.8 Cirrus Shield 9.1.9 Zoho 9.2 Higher Education 9.2.1 Otrs 9.2.2 Cas Software AG 9.2.3 Hubspotcrm 9.2.4 Jenzabar 9.2.5 Ambit 9.2.6 Dotbase 9.2.7 Unit4 9.2.8 Academyfive 9.2.9 Hobsons CRM 9.2.10 Cosmoconsult 9.2.11 Best Practice It Solutions GmbH 9.2.12 Wisys 9.2.13 Saba Learning System 9.2.14 Infoclip 9.2.15 Academyfive 9.2.16 ALISTON Consulting 9.2.17 Coheris 9.2.18 Student Recruitment System 9.3 Nonprofit 9.3.1 Nexellgmbh 9.3.2 Cocomore 9.3.3 SugarCRM 9.3.4 Vtiger 9.3.5 Bexio 9.3.6 Curexus 9.3.7 Konica Minolta Business Solutions Germany 9.3.8 Wicecrm 9.3.9 Bpm'online 9.3.10 eWay CRM 9.3.11 TYPO3 9.3.12 Absyscyborg 9.3.13 Oracle 9.3.14 ALISTON Consulting For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/kikao9 Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. CONTACT: 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: Cloud Computing and Storage The price action in Europe was driven by the results of the EU parliamentary elections and the news that Fiat Chrysler and Renault are in early merger talks. Earlier in the day, shares in Asia were mixed with stocks rallying in China as investors eyed developments from President Trumps state visit to Japan. The U.S. and U.K. equity markets were closed on Monday due to the Memorial Day holiday, but there was activity in Europe and Asia although volume was below average. In Europe, investors were primarily focused on the outcome of the European parliamentary elections. Asian investors remained committed to U.S.-China trade and technology relations. In the cash market, the FTSE 100 settled at 7277.73, up 46.69 or +0.65 percent. In Germany, the DAX finished at 12071.10, up 60.14 or +0.50 percent and Frances CAC rose to 5336.19, up 19.68 or +0.37 percent. The price action in Europe was driven by the results of the EU parliamentary elections and the news that Fiat Chrysler and Renault are in early merger talks. As far as the election results are concerned, they showed a strong showing for Liberal and Green parties, while euroskeptic groups in Britain and France held gains they achieved in 2014. The details revealed that pro-EU parties are still expected to make up the majority of the Parliament, holding on to about two-thirds of the seats. Additionally, right-wing populist parties in both the U.K. and France made strong gains, led by Nigel Farages Brexit Party and Marine Le Pens National Rally, respectively. The auto sector was driven higher, led by shares of Renault, which surged after Fiat confirmed it had filed a proposal for a merger with its French rival. In a press release, Fiat said the joint organization would produce estimated sales of 8.7 million vehicles a year and would be considered the worlds third largest car manufacturer. Shares of Fiat Chrysler rose 8%, while Renault stock jumped nearly 12%. Asia Finishes Mixed with China Markets Ending Higher Earlier in the day, shares in Asia were mixed with stocks rallying in China as investors eyed developments from President Trumps state visit to Japan. Traders were also watching the results from the European parliamentary election, which ended up having little effect on prices. Story continues In the cash market, Japans Nikkei 225 Index settled at 21182.58, up 65.36 or +0.31 percent. Hong Kongs Hang Seng Index finished at 27288.09, down 65.84 or -0.24 percent and Chinas Shanghai Index closed at 2892.38, up 39.38 or +1.38. President Trump visited Japan, where he said Tokyo has had a substantial advantage over Washington for many years. However, he softened his tone later by saying Tokyo and Washington were getting close to a deal that would address the U.S. trade deficit. Recent data from the U.S. Trade Representative showed the U.S. had a deficit of $56.8 billion in goods and services with Japan in 2018. This article was originally posted on FX Empire More From FXEMPIRE: The futures markets are pointing to another positive open though we can expect some sensitivity to todays stats Economic Calendar: Tuesday, 28th May GfK German Consumer Climate (Jun) Eurozone Business Confidence Wednesday, 29th May French Consumer Spending m/m (Apr) French GDP q/q (Q1) German Unemployment Change (May) German Unemployment Rate (May) Thursday, 30th May Spanish HICP (YoY) (May) Friday, 31st May German Retail Sales m/m (Apr) Italian CPI m/m (May) German CPI m/m (May) The Majors The European majors managed to make it a 2nd day in the green following on from Fridays gains. The DAX led the way, gaining 0.5%, with the CAC40 and EuroStoxx600 rising by 0.37% and by 0.22% respectively. In spite of the 2nd consecutive day of gains, the DAX was down 2.21% for the current month, with the CAC down by 4.48%, supporting the traditional May sell-off. Support for the majors came from the EU parliamentary election results. While the mainstream parties lost some ground, expectations had been for populist and far-right parties to win more seats. Gains were tempered, however, with U.S President Trump stating that the U.S was not yet ready to make a trade deal with China. With the U.S markets closed on the day, there were no stats to influence from across the Pond. The Stats The economic calendar was on the quiet side on Monday. French jobseeker figures provided little direction ahead of the open. Total jobseekers fell from 3,382.6k to 3,372.9k. The Market Movers On a relatively quiet day, where the markets were more interested in EU election results than trade or economic conditions, talk of a Renault Fiat merger grabbed the headlines. Renault ended the day with a 12.09% gain, with Fiat up by 7.98% on the day. From the DAX, Wirecard led the way once more, rising by 2.31%, with Deutsche Bank up by 1.5%. In spite of the talk of a Renault Fiat merger, German autos were mixed on the day. Volkswagen gained 1.01%, with Daimler and Continental up by 0.71% and by 0.34% respectively. By contrast, BMW (-0.36%) joined French car maker Peugeot (-3.25%) in the red. Story continues From elsewhere, UniCredit S.p.A slid by 2.28% off the back of news that Italy may face disciplinary action over ballooning public debt. From the CAC, BNP Paribas and Credit Agricole ended the day up by 0.67% and by 1.62% respectively. The Day Ahead Its a busier day ahead on the economic calendar. Germanys June GfK consumer climate figures are due out ahead of the European open. While forecasts are market neutral, any weaker than forecast would be negative for the markets. Later in the day, the Eurozones May business confidence figures will also provide direction. Forecasts are market negative. From outside of the Eurozone, U.S May consumer confidence figures will also have an impact on market risk appetite later in the day. U.S consumer confidence has been on the rise of late, but housing sector data suggests that some concern over the economic outlook may have crept in. Outside of the stats, we can expect market sensitivity to trade chatter to persist through the day. With the U.S President announcing progress on trade talks with Japan, it may not be long before the EU comes under the spotlight. At the time of writing, the DAX30 was up by 21.5 points, with the Dow Mini up by 52 points. This article was originally posted on FX Empire More From FXEMPIRE: The German share price index DAX graph is pictured at the stock exchange in Frankfurt, Germany, May 21, 2019. REUTERS/Staff By Aaron Saldanha (Reuters) - European shares rose on Monday, led by car-makers after Fiat Chrysler and Renault confirmed they were in talks to merge, while broader trading was mainly driven by regional politics. The STOXX 600 index rose 0.2%, with most countries' bourses posting gains after results of European parliamentary elections showed strong support for pro-European Union parties. However, with UK and U.S. markets closed for holidays, liquidity was shallow and STOXX 600 trading volumes were the lowest seen since late August. The calling of a snap election by Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras boosted sentiment after the ruling leftist Syriza party endured a heavy defeat in the European election. Athens-traded stocks surged 6.1%, for their best day since February 2016, on hopes that a new government would be more business friendly than the current one. "The Greek market had not followed the valuation re-rating of European markets post 2015 given the radical nature and rhetoric of the government that we had in place," said Nick Koskoletos, head of equity research at Eurobank Equities in Athens. "The prospect of a more pro-business government and enhanced investor prospects in Greece is helping the market play catch up." Trading volumes in Greek stocks, which were already Europe's best performers in the year to Friday's close, were more than three times their 90-day average. (GRAPHIC: Europe stocks in the year through Friday - https://tmsnrt.rs/2W3gqxs) Austrian stocks recovered from earlier losses to end flat on the day after Chancellor Sebastian Kurz's government was ejected from office in the aftermath of a video sting scandal. Fiat Chrysler pitched a finely-balanced merger of equals to France's Renault in an attempt to create the world's third-largest automaker, sending the two companies' shares up 8% and 12.1%, respectively. The auto and parts makers index rose 1.4%. "For Fiat, which has never invested in 'green', it can be a way to tie-up with someone who already has an electric mass market presence," said a trader at a European bank. Peugeot S.A. fell 3.3%, a move some analysts put down to Fiat preferring to seek a merger with Renault. Story continues Stocks in Milan dipped 0.1%, led by a 1.3% fall in the local banking index after a report said Brussels was considering disciplinary action over Rome's failure to rein in public debt. UniCredit fell 2.3% to its lowest close in more than three and a half months. (Reporting by Aaron Saldanha and Agamoni Ghosh in Bengaluru, Danilo Masoni in Milan, Graphic by Josephine Mason; Editing by Kirsten Donovan) By Greg Roumeliotis and Harry Brumpton (Reuters) - Wesco Aircraft Holdings Inc, a U.S. distributor of parts to the aviation and defence industries, is exploring options that include a sale of the company, people familiar with the matter said on Tuesday. Wesco is making progress with its initiatives to improve its inventory management and trim its debt pile. Earlier this month, its shares rallied after it reported quarterly earnings that showed that some of its operational improvements were paying off. Wesco has hired investment banks to explore acquisition interest in the company, the sources said, cautioning that the deliberations are preliminary and no deal is certain. The sources asked not to be identified because the matter is confidential. Wesco did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Wesco shares rose 9 percent on the news to $10.58, giving the company a market capitalization of $1.1 billion. Wesco's outstanding debt as of the end of March totalled $858 million. Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Wesco supplies hardware, chemicals, electronic components, bearings, tools and machined parts to the global aerospace industry. Private equity firm Carlyle Group LP invested in Wesco in 2006 and floated the company in the stock market in 2011. It still owns close to a quarter of the company. Some of Wesco's debt load is the legacy of its acquisition of chemical supply chain management company Haas Group Inc from buyout firm Jordan Company LP for $550 million in 2014. On May 2, Wesco reported net sales of $426.5 million in its fiscal second quarter, 9.3% higher than the same period last year, "reflecting continued focus and execution in a strong market." Private equity firms have shown strong acquisition interest in aircraft servicing providers because of their typically strong cash flow. Last month, Carlyle acquired engine and airframe maintenance company StandardAero from buyout firm Veritas Capital for more than $5 billion, including debt. (Reporting by Greg Roumeliotis and Harry Brumpton in New York; editing by Grant McCool) Berry joins ranks of unstoppable entrepreneurs in the New York region NEW YORK, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TripleLift, the worlds largest native advertising platform, today announced its CEO and co-founder, Eric Berry was named as a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2019 New York Awards. Widely considered one of the most prestigious business awards programs in the U.S., the program recognizes entrepreneurs and leaders of high-growth companies who are excelling in areas such as innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities, while also transforming our world. Berry was selected as a finalist by a panel of independent judges. Award winners will be announced at a special gala event on June 20, 2019, at the Marriott Marquis. Founded in 2012, TripleLift is committed to integrating advertising seamlessly into content, creating a positive consumer experience. Over the past year, the company has launched new products to further support that mission including new in-content over-the-top (OTT) ad formats and ContentDial . Between 2012 and 2017, the company had grown at least 3x each year, and in 2018, the company saw a 2x growth as it neared $100 million in revenue, earning it a position on the Crains New York 2018 Fast 50 list . As TripleLift continues to grow globally, earlier this year the company opened an office in Sydney, Australia to oversee its growing APAC business . Inclusion on this list of finalists is a huge honor for me and TripleLift, said Berry. We pride ourselves on being trendspotters and providing forward-thinking solutions to embracing those trends. 2019 will continue to be a year of growth and innovation for TripleLift as we continue to empower advertisers and content creators to offer integrated ads that provide consumers with non-disruptive experiences. Now in its 33rd year, the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year has expanded to recognize business leaders in more than 145 cities and more than 60 countries throughout the world. Story continues Regional award winners are eligible for consideration for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National competition. Award winners in several national categories, as well as the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner, will be announced at the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards gala in Palm Springs, California, on November 16, 2019. The awards are the culminating event of the Strategic Growth Forum, the nations most prestigious gathering of high-growth, market-leading companies. To see the full list of 2019 New York regional finalists, visit: https://www.ey.com/en_us/entrepreneur-of-the-year/new-york/finalists . Sponsors Founded and produced by Ernst & Young LLP, the Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards are nationally sponsored by SAP America and the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. In New York, sponsors also include Marsh & McLennan, Empire Valuation Consultants, Kirkland & Ellis, SolomonEdwardsGroup and DLA Piper. About TripleLift TripleLift is the technology company that invents, powers and scales ads that earn consumer attention. Having set the standard for respectful advertising, the company leverages its dynamic templating and computer vision technologies to flawlessly deliver and scale in-feed native ads, branded content experiences and programmatic OTT brand integrations that match the look and feel of the content that is being consumed. TripleLift is reshaping the digital advertising landscape with consumer-centric advertising that drives results for advertisers and unlocks new revenue streams for digital media publishers, app developers and television networks. Headquartered in New York City, TripleLift has offices across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. For more information about TripleLift, please visit triplelift.com . About Entrepreneur Of The Year Entrepreneur Of The Year, founded by EY, is the worlds most prestigious business awards program for entrepreneurs. The program makes a difference through the way it encourages entrepreneurial activity among those with potential and recognizes the contribution of people who inspire others with their vision, leadership and achievement. As the first and only truly global awards program of its kind, Entrepreneur Of The Year celebrates those who are building and leading successful, growing and dynamic businesses, recognizing them through regional, national and global awards programs in more than 145 cities and more than 60 countries. ey.com/eoy About EYs Growth Markets Network EYs worldwide Growth Markets Network is dedicated to serving the changing needs of high-growth companies. For more than 30 years, weve helped many of the worlds most dynamic and ambitious companies grow into market leaders. Whether working with international mid-cap companies or early stage, venture-backed businesses, our professionals draw upon their extensive experience, insight and global resources to help your business succeed. For more information, please visit us at ey.com/gm or follow news on Twitter @EY_Growth. About EY EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation is available via ey.com/privacy. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com. This news release has been issued by Ernst & Young LLP, a member of the global EY organization that provides services to clients in the US. For more information, please visit ey.com . (Bloomberg) -- For the fifth straight year, Julie Goodridge has submitted a proposal to Facebook Inc.s board of directors for a shareholder vote at the companys annual meeting. Her suggestion: Change the companys dual-class voting structure under which Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg has voting rights that give him absolute control despite owning a minority of the companys shares. Goodridge, the CEO of NorthStar Asset Management in Boston, wants to eliminate a special class of shares owned by early investors that carry 10 times as many votes as the shares you can buy on the stock market. Each share, she says, should carry the same numbers of votes. But theres a problem with Goodridges plan: She cant advance her proposal at Thursdays meeting to limit Zuckerbergs monopoly voting power because Zuckerberg has monopoly voting power. He controls 88% of these more powerful shares, which gives him nearly 58% of Facebooks voting power. In order to change Facebooks voting structure and reclaim some of Zuckerbergs control, Goodridge needs the support of the one man who has the most to lose by changing it. Which is why, even before any of the votes are tallied, Goodridge knows she will fail for the fifth time. We [will] resubmit until we no longer can, Goodridge said. Or until the company changes and meets our needs, which obviously theyre not going to do. Goodridge represents an increasingly frustrated cohort of powerless people: Facebook shareholders, a disgruntled group following more than two years of scandal and drama at the social media behemoth. Many are worried that Zuckerberg has amassed too much power, and Facebooks board of directors, which Zuckerberg has appointed, isnt doing enough to hold him accountable. Even Chris Hughes, Zuckerbergs former Harvard dorm-mate and a Facebook co-founder, called on the government to break up Facebook in a New York Times op-ed earlier this month. Marks power is unprecedented and un-American, Hughes wrote. Story continues That power, and those directors, will be at the center of Facebooks annual shareholder meeting on Thursday. Investors will vote on eight different stockholder proposals, the most in company history. One proposal demands the company explore the possibility of breaking itself into multiple, smaller companies. Another requests that Facebook hire an independent chairman to replace Zuckerberg. Half of these outside proposals have something in common: They aim to limit Zuckerbergs control over the company he founded. He has an impermeable wall around him that protects him from anybody elses perspective, said Goodridge. One proposal aimed at changing the way votes are counted in order to approve Facebook board members, put it more bluntly: Facebook operates essentially as a dictatorship, it reads. Goodridge said that while Facebook was once her firms largest holding with more than 50,000 shares, NorthStar has cut its investment to just more than 12,000 shares. Even though the stock has performed well over time, Goodridge said she routinely gets questions from clients asking why theyre still invested in Facebook considering all of the issues facing the company. I cant in all good faith hold onto it, she said.Facebooks shares gained 1.8% to $184.32 at 12:55 p.m. Tuesday in New York and had jumped 38% this year through Fridays close. None of the outside proposals are expected to pass, because the most important shareholderZuckerbergwill not approve them, according to voting recommendations provided by Facebook. What will pass, though, is Facebooks plan to re-elect almost all of the companys existing board members, a group that includes many longtime Zuckerberg allies. Theres one new addition to vote on, Peggy Alford. She recently worked for Zuckerberg at his philanthropic endeavor, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, and she is expected to win investor approval. Some groups are urging shareholders to break up Facebooks board. Glass, Lewis & Co., which advises investors on how to vote, recommended that Facebook owners reject lead independent director Susan Desmond-Hellmann for failing to better steer Facebook over privacy matters. They also advised voting against early Facebook investor and well-known venture capitalist Marc Andreessen, who is part of a board committee responsible for overseeing risk. Institutional Shareholder Services, which also advises shareholders on how to vote on corporate issues, is proposing that Facebook investors reject the board nominations for Zuckerberg, Andreessen and Facebook Chief Operating Sheryl Sandberg. There is no accountability, said Charles Elson, who leads the University of Delawares Weinberg Center on Corporate Governance. Zuckerberg appoints [the board members] and he can remove them. They may be called independent, but realistically, with that structure, you cant be. Facebook disagrees. In opposing statements specific to all of the stockholder proposals, the company pointed to Desmond-Hellman, Facebooks lead independent director, as proof that Zuckerberg is indeed accountable to someone. On the issue of Facebooks dual-class stock structure, Facebook claims that Zuckerbergs control is a benefit that allows the company to think long term. Our recent efforts to improve the safety and security of our community have required significant investment, which has impacted our profitability, Facebook wrote in its rebuttal. "This level of investment may not have been possible if our board of directors and CEO were focused on short-term success over the long-term interests of our community and our company. Whats unknown is whether any changes to Facebook leadership could even help the company at this point. As Facebook faces new privacy and antitrust investigations around the world, U.S. authorities are conducting a criminal investigation into its data-sharing practices. Facebooks also nearing the end of a Federal Trade Commission investigation, with a looming settlement expected to cost the company billions for its role in mishandling users private data. Its possible that the FTC will require that Facebook add a board-level privacy panel, though its unclear whether such a requirement would actually change the directors on Facebooks board. At this point, given Zuckerbergs total control, an appointment like that may not even matter, said Elson. That is meaningless in an organization where the governance structure is a paper tiger, he said. Its unclear what could or would finally push Zuckerbergs hand. Despite strong interest in these ideas the proposal to change Facebooks voting structure received an estimated 83% of the votes that didnt belong to Zuckerberg last year its clear that shareholder unity hasnt yet been persuasive. Still, some shareholders believe it could still work. SumOfUs, which runs digital campaigns intended to apply pressure on powerful corporations, is sponsoring the shareholder proposal asking Facebook to voluntarily explore breaking itself apart. It also started an online petition asking BlackRock Inc., which owns more than 151 million Facebook shares and controls more than 2% of Facebooks voting power, to replace Zuckerberg as chairman. Eventually, as more and more investors jump on board with these ideas, the organization believes that Zuckerberg will cave to the outside pressure even if only to save his own reputation. I think he looks like a tone deaf and irresponsible corporate exec, said Leila Deen, a program director with SumOfUs. We know thats not how Mark Zuckerberg wants to be perceived. We know its very important for him that he is perceived as doing good in the world. Goodridge, along with other shareholders challenging Zuckerberg, plans to be back next year. Oh yeah if we can, she said when asked if NorthStar Asset Management plans to deliver the same stock proposal a seventh time in 2020. I feel like we would be doing a disservice by walking away. (Updates with NorthStars holdings in the 10th paragraph) To contact the authors of this story: Kurt Wagner in San Francisco at kwagner71@bloomberg.netPaula Dwyer in New York at pdwyer11@bloomberg.net To contact the editor responsible for this story: Emily Biuso at ebiuso@bloomberg.net, Andrew Pollack For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. A hospital-bound man unleashed a torrent of punches on his Lyft driver last week, apparently enraged that the ride share employee would notor, more realistically, could notgo faster. According to police, the attack occurred around 6:40 p.m. on Thursday, near 30-90 33rd Street in Astoria. In dashcam footage shared with NBC New York, the unruly customer can be seen entering the vehicle with a woman, lying down with his head in her lap for nearly seven minutes as driver Eduardo Madiedo ferries them to Mount Sinai Queens. The man appears actively upset, restlessly switching positions in the backseat and groaning as if in pain. He then removes his jacket and, shirtless and moaning to himself, commands Madiedo to "drive faster, please man." Madiedo replies that he can't get around the cars in front of him, eliciting backseat driving tips and expletives from the passenger. "Excuse me, man, if you're going to be disrespectful, I'll just pull over right now," Madiedo tells the unidentified man, who suddenly jumps up and starts clobbering Madiedo, repeatedly hitting him in the head and neck as he screams profanity, something along the lines of "you f*cked up." The woman accompanying the man tries to calm the man down, shouting "George! George!" and grabbing at his arm as he clambers up onto the center console to get a clearer shot. Madiedostill driving during the assaulteventually manages to pull over and the passengers exit the vehicle, the agitated man reaching through the open driver's side window to get in one final blow. Madiedo was not hospitalized for his injuries, but told NBC New York he may give up Lyft driving for good. "I just felt like, less than human almost," he said. Police are currently looking for the passenger, who has reportedly been banned from using the car service. By Olga Yagova, Dmitry Zhdannikov and Gleb Gorodyankin (Reuters) - Russia has partially resumed oil flows along the Druzhba pipeline, which runs to Eastern Europe and Germany, following contamination last month that buoyed global prices and left refiners in Europe scrambling for supply. Oil at the port of Ust-Luga was also contaminated. For a map of the Russian oil pipeline, click on: https://tmsnrt.rs/2DytnnM Below are details of the problem and action being taken. WHAT HAPPENED? At least 5 million tonnes of oil, or about 36.7 million barrels, have been contaminated by organic chloride, a chemical compound used to boost oil extraction by cleaning wells and accelerating the flow of crude. The compound must be removed before oil is sent to customers because it can destroy refining equipment. Pipeline monopoly Transneft said the contamination happened in the Volga region of Samara and blamed unidentified "fraudsters". Russian President Vladimir Putin said Transneft lacked the proper mechanism to prevent contamination. Transneft allows no more than 10 parts per million (ppm) of organic chloride, while levels in the Druzhba line and Ust-Luga have fluctuated between 80 and 330 ppm. WHAT IS THE IMPACT? Supplies along the Druzhba pipeline, which can pump 1 million barrels per day (bpd) or the equivalent of 1% of global oil demand, have been suspended since April 25. Every day of pipeline stoppage is costing Russia $80 million in lost revenue. Druzhba was built in Soviet times and serves refiners in Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Ukraine and Belarus. As of May 28, the northern arm of Druzhba serving Poland and Germany was still shut. Flows via the southern leg to Ukraine, the Czech Republic and Slovakia have been partially restored. Hungary is yet to receive clean oil. Poland is expected to get clean flows by mid-June. Russian oil output from May 1 to May 26 fell to 11.126 million barrels per day (bpd), below the 11.18 billion bpd level set as part of the global oil deal between OPEC and its allies. Story continues Oil exports via Transneft pipelines, including Druzhba, dropped 6% during May 1-26 from the average level seen in April, according to the industry sources. Russia is scheduled to disclose production and exports data for May on June 2. WHAT HAVE BUYERS DONE? France's Total and Eni have suspended payments for the contaminated oil and said they will only pay when compensation is agreed. Trading companies Vitol and Unipec are sending around 700,000 tonnes (5.1 million barrels) of contaminated oil to Asia in an attempt to place the barrels rejected by buyers in Europe. Kazakhstan plans to seek compensation from Russia as its oil transit via Russia has also been contaminated. WHAT HAVE REFINERS DONE? Hungary's MOL had agreed to store 100,000 tonnes of contaminated crude. Total had earlier suspended operations at some units of the 230,000 barrel-per-day Leuna refinery in Germany for technical checks. Poland has released 800,000 tonnes of mandatory oil reserves to Lotos and PKN Orlen refineries. It said it saw no risk to products supplies to consumers so far. Hungary has released 400,000 tonnes of oil from emergency reserves to supply a refinery owned by MOL. It said that was sufficient for supplying the country's refineries for two months if needed. Czech refiner Unipetrol has also started to drawn the second batch of an emergency crude oil loan from state reserves. HOW CAN THIS BE FIXED? Buyers who have received contaminated oil now need to store it somewhere and dilute it with cleaner crude to lower the chloride levels, an operation that could cost millions of dollars for each large tanker. Oil from Ust-Luga tankers could gradually be loaded into storage tanks in Europe or Asia or through ship-to-ship operations to be mixed with better-quality crude. But cleaning out the Druzhba pipeline is more complicated. Germany and Poland lack sufficient storage to keep the oil until it can be diluted. Transneft has said contaminated oil from Belarus could be transported by rail to the Russian Black Sea port of Novorossiisk, where it would be diluted. This would take several months because the railway cannot take more than 300,000 tonnes per month, traders say. Traders said the first rail cars with dirty oil had arrived at Novorossiisk in early May, leading to a deterioration of crude quality at the port although it remained within permitted levels. So far, Russia has managed to remove around 2 million tonnes from the pipeline system, using rail, storage tanks and ships, restoring, at least partially, clean flows to the Ust-Luga port and some European countries. Russia has agreed to ship back another around 1 million tonnes of tainted oil from Belarus back to Russia, of which it has already pumped back some 80,000 tonnes using reverse flows. Another around 1 million tonnes of tainted oil stuck in Poland and Germany are to be dealt by these two countries, four industry sources told Reuters after Russia-Belarus reverse flow plan was agreed. The finance ministry will also find a way to return oil export tax paid on oil which was meant for export to Europe but instead was stuck in Belarus after being contaminated and is set to be returned to Russia. But tax on oil stuck in Poland and Germany, if it remains there and is not shipped back to Russia, will not be returned, a high-ranked finance ministry official said. The presidents of Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus meet on Tuesday and Wednesday in Kazakhstan for regular talks and the oil contamination issue is expected to be discussed. (Additional reporting by Vladimir Soldatkin and Katya Golubkova; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise and Jason Neely) US Dollar Index The Greenback continues to stay underway recovery since the big plunge on May 23. The USD Index made the days opening near 97.72 levels and was facing north. Mixed European Events made the Index keep fluctuating in the Asian trading session. The most notable one was the Eurozone May Business Climate that reported 0.10 points lower than the estimates. The US Dollar Index had marked the days low near 97.70 levels. Laterwards, the Greenback recovered the earlier losses on the backdrop of positive USD data. US Dollar Index 60 Min 28 May 2019 The March YoY S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices came out 3.7% lower than the February 3.9% figures. The unexpected event for the day was the US Consumer Confidence. The Consensus had estimated 130 points to report this time. Somehow, the May Index recorded 134.1 points. The US April Retail Sales had reported weaker figures. However, it seems like the consumers still expect the economy to show good growth in the near period. The USD Index had touched the days high near 97.96 levels simultaneously marking weekly top levels. EUR/USD Fiber showcased an overall poor performance on Tuesdays trading session. The pair had slight upliftments in the early hours as the Switzerland Q1 GDP reported above-the-consensus estimates. The Q1 YoY Gross Domestic Product came out 0.7% higher than the market expectation of around 1.0%. However, the next event displayed negative report eating away the morning gains. The German June Gfk Consumer Confidence Survey recorded 2.97% below the forecasts figures. Following such weaker reports, the EUR/USD pair dropped from days high of 1.1199 levels reaching near 1.1182 levels. In the later hours, the pair showcased formation of a double bottom pattern amid Italian budget concerns. Responding to the countrys threat to violate the EU Fiscal Rules, the EU slammed Italy with a $3-4bn fine. Hence, the Italian budget continued to stay under due pressure disturbing the Fiber. At around 16:05 GMT, the pair was trading near 1.1171 levels quoting the days lowest level. The plunge in the pair triggered over robust USD data. The US May Consumer Confidence Index and March S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices further controlled the pairs movements. Story continues USD/CAD Today, the Loonie discontinued its consolidation mode, which was sustained near 1.3440 levels and traveled upwards. During the initial hours of the day, the pair remained restrained within the range of 1.3430/50 levels. Further, the USD/CAD pair marked the fresh daily high near 1.3475 levels. However, this notable improvement was short-lived after the release of the USD-specific events. The pair was pushed down to 10 pips after the release of the March YoY S&P Case-Shiller HPI. This HPI data stood bearish and recorded low numbers. USDCAD 60 Min 28 May 2019 Laterwards, the Loonie bounced to 1.3470 levels following the strengthening USD Index. The Greenback underpinned against its rival currencies amid global risk sentiment, which promoted the investors to buy safe-haven pair. Also, the Oil prices recorded mix performance today, helping the Loonie to retain its position above 1.3435 levels. Meanwhile, the Consumer Confidence report came out 134.1 points than the estimated 130 points. These bullish figures helped the Loonie to maintain its days achievements. GBP/USD Cable recorded weekly low levels near 1.2654 levels today despite the absence of GBP-specific events. The primary reason behind the deepening plunge in the depressed pair was Britains political uncertainty and no-deal Brexit fear. A piece of news caught the headline about almost ten lawmakers filing their nominations to replace Theresa May. Over to this news, the Investors remained convinced about the new PM, who will take the stance for Pro-Brexit later. Adding to the pairs downtrend, the Greenback appeared healthy amid optimistic Consumer Confidence Index. Furthermore, the US-China Trade tensions added in further significant improvement in the GBP/USD pair. Therefore, todays weak market sentiments benefitted the safe-haven against its British counterpart. This article was originally posted on FX Empire More From FXEMPIRE: (Bloomberg) -- When Samuel Maddock built a browser that lets friends watch an online video at the same time, he used what seemed like the cheapest and simplest option: Chromium, a free, open-source version of Googles Chrome web browser. Maddocks creation worked well, but because it was based on Chromium, he needed another Google product called Widevine to authenticate users and prevent video piracy. He sent Google a request, outlining the project, and waited. And waited. Four months and 10 emails later he got a one-line answer: sorry, you cant use the software for that. He wasnt doing anything illegal. In fact, using Googles secure-streaming tool would have ensured his project was above-board. But the internet giant withheld access, without saying why. Maddock gave up on making a browser soon after. You have these gatekeepers like Google that decide which projects can work and if youre not granted that permission youre screwed, Maddock said. This is one small developer working on a small project. But his story demonstrates how Googles dominance of the browser market -- and the underlying technology tools -- gives the company far-reaching control over how the web works, and who gets to create new ways of accessing it. Its another example of how the Alphabet Inc. units power has grown to the point where regulators from India to the European Union are looking for ways to keep it in check. The EU has already fined Google for breaking antitrust laws in the markets for online search, display advertising and mobile operating systems. Chrome is an important cog in Googles digital ad system, distributing its search engine and providing a direct view for the company into what users do on the web. Few home-grown Google products have been as successful as Chrome. Launched in 2008, it has more than 63% of the market and about 70% on desktop computers, according to StatCounter data. Mozillas Firefox is far behind, while Apples Safari is the default browser for iPhones. Microsoft Corp.s Internet Explorer and Edge browsers are punchlines. Story continues Google won by offering consumers a fast, customizable browser for free, while embracing open web standards. Now that Chrome is the clear leader, it controls how the standards are set. Thats sparking concern Google is using the browser and its Chromium open-source underpinnings to elbow out online competitors and tilt entire industries in its favor. Most major browsers are now built on the Chromium software code base that Google maintains. Opera, an indie browser thats been used by techies for years, swapped its code base for Chromium in 2013. Even Microsoft is making the switch this year. That creates a snowball effect, where fewer web developers build for niche browsers, leading those browsers to switch over to Chromium to avoid getting left behind. This leaves Chromes competitors relying on Google employees who do most of the work to keep Chromium software code up to date. Chromium is open source, so anyone can suggest changes to it, but the majority of programmers who approve contributions are Google employees, and any major disagreements get settled by a small circle of senior Google employees. Chrome is so ascendant these days that web developers often dont bother to test their sites on competing browsers. Google services including YouTube, Docs and Gmail sometimes dont work as well on rival browsers, sending frustrated users to Chrome. Instead of just another ship slicing through the sea of the web, Chrome is becoming the ocean. Whatever Chrome does is what the standard is, everyone else has to follow, said Andreas Gal, the former chief technology officer of Mozilla. Google didnt target Mozilla in overt ways during Gals seven years at the company. Instead, he described it as death by a thousand cuts: Google would update Docs, or Gmail, and suddenly those services wouldnt work on Mozilla. There were dozens and dozens of oopsies, where Google ships something and, oops, it doesnt work in Firefox, Gal said. They say oh were going to fix it right away, in two months, and in the meantime every time the user goes to these sites, they think, oh, Firefox is broken. Google has tried to mitigate this problem. It has a separate project focused on making different browsers behave in more uniform ways so website developers have less tweaking to do. And the company has advocated for more public standards that can be followed by all browsers. We take it seriously, the responsibility of being good stewards of the web, said Darin Fisher, a vice president of engineering on the Chrome team. Googles business relies on the web working for as many people as possible, so the company doesnt have an interest in squashing competition, he said. Even if it isnt trying to sabotage competing browsers, Google has a financial motivation to dominate the market, Gal said. He now works at Apple Inc. after selling his startup Silk Labs to the iPhone maker in 2018. In the past there were these three, four major players with somewhat equivalent share between Microsoft and Google and Mozilla and Apple and nobody had this very clear advantage, he said. Today, especially in the desktop space, Google is definitely a monopolist. That dominance means Google sets the standard for what the internet is supposed to be. And in that vision, advertising and user data collection are the defaults. Earlier this month, Google announced a long-awaited decision on how Chrome handles online tracking software known as cookies. Other browsers have blocked third-party cookies by default, but Google chose to let users decide -- and due to its dominance that will likely be the standard going forward. Shares of Criteo SA, a digital ad company that relies on cookies, jumped almost 10% on the news, the biggest gain in over a year. Chrome has become spyware, said Brendan Eich, co-founder of Mozilla and the current CEO of Brave Software Inc. Brave offers a browser that blocks ads and web tracking software, and it is developing a system that pays users small amounts when they visit certain sites. This could upend the internet advertising business. The only catch is that the Brave browser is built on Chromium. Eich said its a trade-off hes willing to make. Building a browser from scratch is a gargantuan task. But it hasnt always been smooth sailing for Brave on Googles ocean. In August 2017, Netflix suddenly stopped working on Braves browser. After a flurry of emails, Brave Chief Technology Officer Brian Bondy discovered that a Google update had changed the way Netflix used Widevine -- the same tool Maddock was trying to get permission from Google to use. Brave hadnt been told about the changes, so its browser broke when users visited Netflix online. It took over two weeks to fix the problem. Small-share browsers are at the mercy of Google, and Google is stalling us for no communicated-to-us reason, Bondy wrote in a post on the developer collaboration site Github at the time. Even when people choose to download a competitor to Chrome, Google has ways to encourage them to come back. Vivaldi, a popular browser for the privacy-conscious crowd, has had trouble when it comes to running Google services like Docs and Gmail, said CEO Jon von Tetzchner. Some users logging into Google products on Vivaldi get prompts saying their browser isnt optimized for them, or suggesting they download Chrome instead. It was very clearly targeting us, von Tetzchner said. He even spoke to Google co-founder Sergey Brin about the issue, but hasnt gotten a strong commitment the behavior would stop, he said. Winning the browser war has done a lot more for Google than just allow it to create a friendly space for its other web services. When Chrome users are logged-in to a Google account, the company can follow them around the web, cataloging what sites they visit. All the data help Googles ad products improve. The browser is the thing which sees the most of you, said Eben Moglen, an antitrust law professor at Columbia Law School who has studied browsers and their role in competition for decades. Chrome has become outright hostile to services that seek to cut down on advertising, like ad blockers, Moglen added. Fisher, the Chrome executive, said the web needs advertising to keep it affordable for people who might not be able to pay publishers and other website owners for access. Chrome is independent from the ads group, but of course we collaborate with them, we both have a shared goal of a free and open web, Fisher said. Part of making the web really great is that theres a diversity of content for users to consume. Diversity of browsers is another matter. If Microsoft, the worlds largest software maker, needs Chromium, its hard to imagine Google losing its grip any time soon. We have gone into it in the spirit of positivity and belief in collaboration and they have not disappointed us, said Joe Belfiore, Microsoft vice president of Experiences and Devices, said. Does he worry that positivity might not last? Well have to cross that bridge when we come to it, Belfiore said. Lets see how this plays out." --With assistance from Dina Bass. To contact the reporter on this story: Gerrit De Vynck in New York at gdevynck@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Jillian Ward at jward56@bloomberg.net, Alistair Barr, Andrew Pollack For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. The on-again, off-again effort to legalize marijuana in New York is picking up new momentum, after state lawmakers unveiled a revised legislative package aimed at winning over weed skeptics, social justice advocates, and most crucially, Governor Andrew Cuomo. The amended Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act, released by State Senator Liz Krueger and Assembly Majority Leader Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes on Friday, closely resembles the framework put forth by the governor earlier this year. That proposal was dropped from the budget agreement in April, and with the session set to end next month, the prospects for legalization looked bleak. But the bill's sponsors say new compromises could push legalization over the finish line in the next few weeks. "I think traction is building," Krueger told Gothamist on Tuesday. "When it didn't make it in the budget some people thought that meant goodbye. But we took awhile to put a new bill together that reflects what grew out of discussions with colleagues in both houses, and discussions with the governor." As conceived in the governor's proposal, the amended law would create a Cuomo-appointed Office of Cannabis Management to regulate both recreational and medicinal marijuana, as well as hemp products like CBD. Taxes on the drug would be upped to $1 per gram, and the state would commit to spending $3 million over three years on training police officers to spot stoned drivers. Under the amended bill, the amount of marijuana a person can legally possess would decrease to three ounces, down from the previous version's threshold of two pounds. The age for adult use is set at 21. Marijuana prohibition is often used as the pretext to feed black and brown people into President Trumps deportation machine. We join fellow NYC defenders in calling for the state to pass the revised Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act. pic.twitter.com/RHdnQxz5AF The Bronx Defenders (@BronxDefenders) May 28, 2019 But the revised package also includes concessions to advocates on the left, some of whom have been pushing for a more justice-oriented approach to legalization. The bill stipulates that 50 percent of all marijuana revenue would be deposited in a grant reinvestment fund for communities "disproportionately affected by past federal and state drug policies." Those communities would also have access to "incubator programs" offering loans and assistance in joining the potentially lucrative market. And New Yorkers would be able to grow up to six marijuana plants for personal use. Moreover, new language in the bill would expunge the records of New York residents convicted of low-level marijuana offenses. Previous proposals had called for those records to be sealed, meaning they could still be accessed by members of law enforcement in certain situations. This change earned plaudits from a coalition of public defender groups on Tuesday, who noted in a press release that marijuana arrest records have "curtailed the opportunities of countless predominately young Black and Latinx New Yorkers." In the first three months of this year, black and hispanic people accounted for 92 percent of low-level marijuana arrests in the city. According to Melissa Moore of the Drug Policy Alliance, the challenges of record-clearing have been among the biggest lessons gleaned from watching other states go through the legalization process. "Any efforts to address records must be as robust and comprehensive as possible," she told Gothamist. "It's beneficial, as we're going into the ending sprint of sessions, to be starting from a place that takes into account some of the concerns that members voiced during the budget process." Cuomo doesn't seem optimistic about the new marijuana bill passing before the end of session. He says the votes aren't there in the Senate. Dan Clark (@DanClarkReports) May 28, 2019 But as advocates framed the new updates as a worthy compromise, the governor has yet to give any indication that he is ready to re-prioritize marijuana legalization. "I just don't believeand the senators saythey don't have the votes, and at the end of the day, if you don't have the votes, you don't have the votes," Cuomo told WNYC's Brian Lehrer on Tuesday morning. Democratic leaders in the senate say they've made no such declaration. Several senators previously told Gothamist/WNYC that they were waiting to see the revised bill before making a final decision; those lawmakers are presumably still pouring over the 109-page document that dropped on Friday. According to the bill's sponsors, the votes for legalization are out there, though they may be contingent on Cuomo's support. "I have no crystal ball. But the situation would need to be as follows: the Assembly passes the bill, the governor offers full-throated support, and then the Senate can hopefully pull it together," predicted Krueger. "I need [Governor Cuomo] to come out with strong support for the package, and I don't think we've heard that yet." Asked why the governor might not work with fellow Democrats on their final push for marijuana legalization this year, Krueger replied, "I never try to make assumptions about why Andrew Cuomo does anything." A spokesperson for the Governor's Office did not respond to Gothamist's inquiries about his position on the revised bill. Additional reporting by Fred Mogul. Listen to his radio segment on the new proposal below. Jesse Lund, IBMs global head of blockchain for financial services, is no longer working for the company. Jesse Lund, IBMs global head of blockchain for financial services and digital currencies, is no longer working for the company. A spokesperson for IBM confirmed Lunds departure via an email to CoinDesk: I can confirm that Jesse Lund is no longer employed by IBM. IBMs practice is not to discuss the specifics of employee departures. Slowly But Surely: May Was a Quietly Big Month for Blockchain A former banker, Lund harbored an ambitious plan to bring cryptocurrency into the enterprise world and also to explore stablecoins and central bank digital currency. He spearheaded IBMs World Wire payment network which used the Steller blockchain to help banks remove pain points from cross border payments. Lund, previously a senior vice president of innovation at Wells Fargo, had enticed six banks onto the World Wire platform including Philippines-based RCBC, Brazils Banco Bradesco, and Bank Busan of South Korea. The World Wire platform has payment locations in 72 countries, with 48 currencies and 46 banking endpoints (which include banks and money transmitters) where people can send or receive cash, IBM said in March. Prior to joining IBM, from mid-2015 to the start of 2017, Lund was part of the executive steering committee of distributed ledger technology (DLT) provider R3, where he helped build partnerships, and represented Wells Fargos interests on R3s growing Corda platform. JPMorgan Quietly Reboots the Blockchain Behind Its JPM Coin Cryptocurrency Asked if Lunds departure would affect the Stellar/ World Wire partnership, Jed McCaleb, co-founder of Stellar, told CoinDesk: No, we are still full steam ahead with World Wire. IBM pic via Shutterstock Related Stories Voters in Illinois will have the chance to decide whether to change the states tax structure, as it grapples with a number of fiscal challenges. State lawmakers on Monday voted to let residents decide whether to eliminate the states current flat income tax in favor of a graduated tax bracket where wealthy residents would likely shoulder a larger share of the tax burden. The states current tax rate is 4.95 percent. What residents will technically be voting on is whether lawmakers should be allowed to amend the state constitution, which calls for a flat tax rate, to allow for a progressive income tax bracket system. The measure will be on the November 2020 ballot 60 percent of voters will be required for its approval. It does not specify what the individual income tax rates would be if voters come out in favor of amending the state constitution lawmakers would be required to create those separately. Illinois Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzer has said that a majority of voters will see no increase in taxes. He campaigned on amending the states tax structure. Pritzker has put forth a proposal that calls for a six-rate tax system, ranging from 4.75 percent to 7.95 percent. The latter rate would apply to those with incomes of more than $1 million. He also wants to increase the corporate tax rate to 7.95 percent, from 7 percent. In total, it is estimated the plan would increase state revenues by about $3.3 billion. The state is facing a $3.2 billion structural budget deficit, a lawmaker told the Chicago Tribune. It also faces unfunded pension liabilities worth more than $133 billion. In a 2018 research note, JPMorgans Michael Cembalest said Illinois was one of two states where deteriorations in pension finances are practically irreversible. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX BUSINESS APP In order to address its pension gap, Cembalest said the state would have to either increase tax revenues by 25 percent, increase public sector worker contributions by 689 percent or achieve an annual investment return equal to 11.5 percent. Story continues Connecticut is one of the only other states in the past couple of decades that switched from a flat-tax to a graduated tax system. The state moved from a 4.5 percent flat rate into a seven income bracket system. The state is currently facing a multi-billion budget deficit and a group of millionaires in the state have asked for the governor to raise their taxes to battle shortfalls. Related Articles For Immediate Release Chicago, IL May 28, 2019 Zacks Equity Research Illumina ILMN as the Bull of the Day, Wix.com WIX as the Bear of the Day. In addition, Zacks Equity Research provides analysis on Microsoft MSFT, Facebook FB and Oracle ORCL. Here is a synopsis of all four stocks: Bull of the Day: Illuminais the $45 billion leading developer of life science tools and integrated systems for large-scale analysis of genetic function and variation. Their technology is responsible for generating more than 90% of the worlds sequencing data. You may have experienced Illumina technology if you ever ordered a DNA testing kit from a company like 23andMe or Ancestry. ILMN is back in the upper tiers of the Zacks Rank after another beat and raise quarter that prompted Wall Street analysts to raise their estimates. More on the company's growth numbers coming up after we step back to see the scope of their efforts. The Century of Biology Requires Powertools for Discovery Ever since the human genome was mapped nearly 20 years ago, an explosion of scientific discovery has been unleashed with many hundreds of public and private companies, universities, and research institutes working to better understand life and cure disease. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), the cost to sequence a genome has fallen from $10 million in 2007 to under $1,000 today. And this economic access has fueled the rise of more scientists seeking to do more research that wasn't even thought of a decade ago. When I think of role of this unique tool-maker in "the century of biology," I search for powerful metaphors to describe its reach and impact. If genetics is a great ocean, then Illumina is Queen Isabella of Spain, launching fleets of explorers to discover new worlds. Once given the exploration, mapping, and conquest tools to do so, explorers would only need more of them to harvest and mine the riches of new lands. And that as we shall see, is exactly what has happened with Illumina's powertools -- the more reach and impact they give genetic explorers, the more exploration that is initiated and, thus, the more demand for its products occurs. Story continues Honestly, I should have bought Illumina for Healthcare Innovators in 2017 when it was trading $200. But I didn't understand the company's impact, much less their valuation trading over 10X 2017 sales of $2.75 billion and 50X EPS of $4.00. Plus, Wall Street's (lazy) analysts underestimated the growth story too, with the average Street price target around $225 at the time. Then the stock went on a tear in 2018 after a Q1 41% EPS beat in April, launching shares from $240 to $360+ in five months! Every slight pullback was a tempting opportunity, even at 13-14X sales and 55-60X EPS. And we got a big second chance right before Q2 earnings when the stock got whacked from all-time highs above $315 back down to $290. Time to Board the Starship Illumina Then this past September, I really started paying attention to the Illumina story and doing my homework. At over $360 per share, ILMN was trading for over 15X next 12-month's sales (about $3.5 billion) and over 60X EPS (about $6). I told my followers "I don't think you need to rush out and pay that right now." But I also advised "Long-term healthcare investors should be buyers between $320 and $340. And obviously, you would add on any bigger dips to $280-300 if a market correction of any magnitude should bless you with such an opportunity." We obviously got those opportunities to start a position near $320 and add under $300 during the recent volatility and I would still recommend those buy levels. Especially as the stock now trades under 11X next year's projected sales of $4.3 billion. The main reason we did is because the growth rates have slowed considerably. Last year saw 20% sales growth and a 40% EPS advance. But this year is projected to see only 13% topline growth and 17% on the bottom. And yet long-term growth investors are still accumulating ILMN shares near $300 because the visibility for the next two years is so strong. Who Is Illumina and What Do They Do? As a California startup in 1998, Illumina was born toward the tail end of the scientific revolution we call the Human Genome Project, an international collaboration of dozens of universities and research centers around the globe. That was the same year that Craig Venter of Celera Genomics started his quest to complete the massive sequencing task faster and cheaper. Their initial products enabled researchers to explore DNA at an entirely new scale, helping them create the first map of gene variations associated with health, disease, and drug response. With each technological breakthrough, they helped scientists better understand genetic variation at all levels of complexity. Ever since, Illumina has developed one of the worlds most comprehensive genomics portfolio of integrated systems, consumables, and analysis tools. The company provides a line of products and services that serve the sequencing, genotyping and gene expression and proteomics markets. Proteomics is the large-scale study of proteins, the basic building blocks of life. According to industry research firm MarketsandMarkets.com, "The global proteomics market is projected to reach $21.87 billion by 2021, at a CAGR of 11.7% from 2016 to 2021... significant growth is propelled by the increasing need for personalized medicine, R&D expenditure, technological advancements, and increased funding for proteomics projects." Here's how Illumina describes their mission in all of their markets.. "While the rate of progress is accelerating exponentially, we are only beginning to understand the clinical significance of the genome. What causes a cancer cell to mutate? What is the origin of a puzzling disease? Is it possible to prevent the next outbreak? Or safeguard the worlds food supply? These are just a few of the challenges that inspire us to push the boundaries of our imagination. "We strive to make our solutions increasingly simple, more accessible, and always reliable. As a result, discoveries that were unimaginable even a few years ago are now becoming routine and are making their way into patient treatment. "We now have the ability to sequence at an unprecedented scale. Collectively, this will give us a much deeper understanding of genetics than ever before. We will begin to truly unlock the power of the genome. These advances will trigger a fundamental shift in healthcare and beyond. Medicine will continue to become more preventive and more precise. We will be healthier, longer. We have only just begun. "Our customers include a broad range of academic, government, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and other leading institutions around the globe." With less than half of one percent of the world's population touched by a genetic test of some kind, Illumina is filling a huge need with their fast and precise technologies. The NASA of Biotechnology From the above perspective on Illumina's customers, maybe ocean exploration is too limited a metaphor. The better comparison might be space. And that would make Illumina the NASA of genetics, providing aerospace-grade discovery tools. Let's look at a list of their different NASA-grade exploration powertools... NovaSeq Sequencing Systems HiSeq X Sequencing Systems HiSeq Sequencing Systems NextSeq Sequencing Systems MiSeq Sequencing System MiSeqDx Sequencing System MiSeq FGx Forensic Genomics System MiniSeq Sequencing System iSeq System iScan Array Scanner The NovaSeq product (pronounced Nova-seek) is the company's latest advanced sequencing tool, which costs over $980,000. Here's how the excellent biopharma writer over Forbes, Matthew Herper, described the path of Illumina's business in 2017... Illumina, the largest maker of DNA sequencers, is launching a new DNA sequencer with new architecture it says could push the cost of decoding a human genome from $1,000 to $100 -- although that decrease will not come for years. This is good news, affirming that the field is still so healthy that price-plummeting is still considered good for business, says George Church, the Robert Winthrop Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School. The new DNA sequencers, called the NovaSeq 5000 and the NovaSeq 6000, could be about 70% faster than existing machines, by Churchs math -- [which is not really a big increase in this exponential field as you can tell by the cost-drop of sequencing in the last decade]. But Illumina promises rapid increases as new parts and software upgrade the machines, meaning that by the end of the year the machines will be six times faster than its predecessors. Bear of the Day: Wix.com(WIX) is a $6.7 billion provider of website hosting and development tools. In its Q1 earnings report on May 16, the company delivered non-GAAP EPS of 3 cents, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 9 cents. Despite revenues surging 27% year over year, the big EPS miss and subsequent guidance caused the majority of Wall Street analysts to lower future estimates and pushed the stock to the cellar of the Zacks Rank. Quarter in Detail Collections during the reported quarter came in at $200.4 million, up 26% year over year, attributable to expansion of new products and enhancement of existing products. Management had projected collections in the range of $196 million to $197 million. The company witnessed better-than-expected conversion and retention in its user cohorts. The company added a total of 180,000 net premium subscriptions in the reported quarter, which came in at 4.2 million as of Mar 31, 2019 (up 21% year over year). Wix added 6.6 million registered users during the reported quarter. Registered users as of Mar 31, 2019 came in at 148 million, up 19% year over year. During the reported quarter, average revenue per subscription (ARPS) increased 9% year over year. The surge can primarily be attributed to favorable mix of higher priced subscription packages. Operating Results Non-GAAP gross profit advanced 23.7% from the year-ago quarter to $136 million. Nonetheless, non-GAAP gross margin contracted 200 bps to 78%. Total operating expenses surged 27.7% to $162.4 million in the first quarter. The company reported non-GAAP operating loss of $2.2 million wider than year-ago loss reported at $0.8 million. Company Guidance For the second quarter, the company expects revenues in the range of $182-$184 million, representing year-over-year growth of 25-26%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is currently pegged at $184.06 million. Collections are projected to be in the range of $197-$199 million, suggesting growth in the range of 23-24% in the year-ago quarter. The company updated fiscal 2019 guidance. Management now anticipates revenues in the range of $758-$763 million, up from prior guided range of $755-$761million. This indicates an improvement of 26% from the year-ago reported figure. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is currently pegged at $759.8 million. Collections are projected to be in the range of $822-$830 million, suggesting growth of 25-26% from the prior-year quarter, compared with previous predicted range of $817-$827 million. However, the company expects free cash in the range of $122-$126 million, indicating an improvement of 20-24% from the year-ago quarter, down from prior guided range of $135-$140 million. Since the company report on May 16, the Zacks analyst consensus for 2019 full-year EPS dropped 26.5% from $1.13 to $0.83, representing -22.4% growth. But revenue growth remains robust at 26.2% to a projected $762 million. Customer Service I was an investor in Wix.com shares in 2017 as I admired their platform tools, growth, and broad popularity. But I recently had a negative experience with Wix over their annual recurring billing policy and wondered if others have also. I was recovering from an accident and illness and missed the automatic annual subscription renewal of my website. I decided to cancel the $200+ in annual services for that site hosting but since I missed the 15-day window for annual cancellations, my refund/pro-rating request was denied with only reference to the policy. I also lost my domain renewal in the process and so the services were further unusable and useless to me. I made 4 separate requests and all responses were the same. It wasn't about the money for me, but about the principle of having someone acknowledge my situation with some flexibility -- especially since they got all the money upfront for 12 months of services I wasn't using, and would not being using. So to see what experiences others might have had, I entered "wix customer service reviews" in a Google search engine on May 27 and found the top 3 results were from trustpilot.com, whoishostingthis.com, and sitejabber.com. Trustpilot had 990 reviews of which 44% were a "Bad" rating, with the same overall rating. The second most recent comment related to my experience... They renewed our subs without our consent and when we try to ask for a refund they denied us right away without even investigating it first like they supposed to. and also their CS is the worst, never have we ever encounter such lazy, nonexistent CS , all is auto-generated computer responses. Sitejabber.com had 292 reviews from their community with 165 (56.5%) offering only 1 star of 5. WhoIsHostingThis.com has a much more extensive review by web hosting expert Dale Cudmore, published April 26 and titled "Wix.com Hosting: Powerful & Popular But Small Businesses Can Do Better. Here's Why." In addition to Cudmore's evaluation of the features, tools, quality and value of Wix.com, the piece also offered 47 reviews by Wix customers with an overall 2.5 stars out of 5 for Support. Here's part of the intro to Cudmore's article... Wix is one of the most popular website builders on the market. But how many people really use the website builder? Heres an overview: More than 3.3 million sites have been built using Wix. (Source: BuiltWith) 17,556 live sites in the US were built using Wix. (Source: BuiltWith) 287 of the top 100K sites in the US were built with Wix. (Source: BuiltWith) As of 2017, Wix had 110 million users. (Source: Wix) Each day nearly 45,000 people sign up to use Wix. (Source: Wix) The numbers dont lie. But, what do real users have to say about Wix? (end of Cudmore article intro) That last line sums it up. Numbers-wise, Wix is a strong growth business providing services to millions of users. And the recurring subscription model obviously works to boost revenues and profits. But a valid question about customer service might concern whether strict, automatic enforcement of refund policies leads to short-term financial gains that will be harder to repeat if fewer satisfied customers return with new projects and business ideas that require webhosting. In the company's favor is a big push into the professional market where web designers and marketing agencies take care of the website needs of multiple clients and businesses. And the company will spend $5 million per quarter the rest of this year on plans for expanded customer solutions/support staff. Management expects a 3X return on that investment, or $45 million into 2020. These will be exciting developments to watch. As far as buying WIX shares, I'd wait until the earnings estimates stop going down and start going back up. The Zacks Rank will let you know. 3 Blue Chip Tech Stocks to Buy Right Now Renewed U.S.-China trade war fears have hurt markets recently, with both the S&P 500 and the Dow down since the end of April. With that said, the S&P is still up roughly 12% in 2019, with large-cap tech giants like Apple and Amazon helping drive the comeback. Despite the recent uncertainty brought about by the trade dispute between the worlds two largest economies, technology companies seem set to be long-term winners. Tech has been at the helm of our historic bull market, and in our increasingly interconnected digital world, it is likely that the industry remains a long-term growth driver. Clearly, some of the volatility has made some investors more skeptical, with bearish traders quick to draw similarities between this latest tech rally and the infamous dot-com bubble of the late 90s and early 2000s. Yet, unlike the dot-com bubble, sustainable revenue and earnings expansion have fueled the current tech boom. There are, of course, concerns about a global economic slowdown. This might mean that investors interested in tech search for companies that have proven their strength for years and look poised for solid expansion. With that said, lets check out three blue-chip tech stocks to consider buying right now. 1. Microsoft Microsoft has seen its stock price jump roughly 25% this year to outpace industrys 18% average. MSFT shares opened Friday at $126.91, down just around 3% from their 52-week intraday trading high. The Windows and Office power is coming off better-than-projected Q3 fiscal 2019 financial results. Microsoft's legacy businesses have performed well and remain vital to individuals and businesses around the world. Yet, the Redmond, Washington-based firms growing cloud computing business is what has helped MSFT stock surge over the last few years. Microsofts Intelligent Cloud revenue climbed 22% last quarter, with its vital Azure division up 73%. The firms expansion into cloud computing has seen it compete directly with industry leader Amazon and partner with behemoths such as Walmart for cloud, artificial intelligence, and more. More recently, MSFT joined forces with video gaming rival Sony for a cloud-gaming partnership. Our current Zacks Consensus Estimates call for the companys adjusted full-year earnings to surge 18% on the back of 13% revenue growth. Looking further ahead, Microsofts fiscal 2020 EPS figure is projected to jump over 11% above our current year estimate, with revenue expected to climb 10.6% higher. Microsoft also currently pays an annualized dividend of $1.84 a share, which marks a 9.5% jump from the prior-year payout. Microsofts positive earnings estimate revision activity, particularly for fiscal 2019 and 2020, helps it earn a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) right now. 2. Facebook Facebook has been under the microscope for well over a year now for its handling of user data and outsized impact over the flow of information. In spite of all the worries that users would run away from the social media powerhouse, shares of FB have soared nearly 40% in 2019 and its user growth has remained solid. The firm posted stronger-than-expected Q1 revenue results, with revenue up 26%. Plus, Mark Zuckerbergs company grew both its daily and monthly active user totals by 8%. Company executives estimate that over 2.7 monthly billion people use at least one of its family of serviceswhich includes Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messengerevery month on average. This figure alone should help Facebook remain an advertising juggernaut, alongside Google, for years to come. On top of that, FB has invested in an e-commerce future, which includes its new Checkout on Instagram feature. Zuckerberg also recently detailed plans about how Facebook could start to focus on private encrypted messaging, payments, and other services. FBs full-year 2019 revenues are expected to surge 24% to reach $69.22 billion, with adjusted fiscal year earnings projected to dip 7% as it spends to improve security and much more. With that said, the companys adjusted 2020 earnings are projected to soar over 31% above our current-year estimate on 21% higher revenues. Facebook is Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at the moment and is trading at 21.2X forward 12-month Zacks Consensus EPS estimates, which represents a discount compared to its industrys 26.5X average and its own three-year high of 37.3X and 27.6X median. This means that investors can say with some confidence that FB stock is relatively cheap. 3. Oracle Oracle is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) right now that boasts a B grade for Value in our Style Scores system. Oracle stock has climbed above the broader Computer Software-Services Market industry over the last 12 months, up over 12% against the industrys 1.9% average climb. ORCLs positivity helps it rest near new 52-week and all-time highs. Plus, the firm is coming off a better-than-expected Q3 fiscal 2019. ORCL is also a dividend payer that recently paid out a $0.24 per share dividend, up roughly 25% from its previous $0.19 payout. ORCLs annualized dividend rests at $0.96 per share, with a yield of 1.81% at the moment. Furthermore, Oracle is currently trading at 15.7X forward 12-month Zacks Consensus EPS estimates. Like Facebook, this falls well below its industrys 26.5X average and its own five-year high of 19.3X. Investors might also be pleased to note that the historic tech giant has tried to expand its cloud business in recent years. Looking ahead, Oracle's adjusted current-quarter earnings are projected to pop 8.1% to hit $1.07 per share. The tech giants fiscal 2019 EPS figure is expected to jump by 10.3%. And ORCLs full-year 2020 earnings are projected to climb 10.1% above our current-year estimate. Looking for Stocks with Skyrocketing Upside? Zacks has just released a Special Report on the booming investment opportunities of legal marijuana. Ignited by new referendums and legislation, this industry is expected to blast from an already robust $6.7 billion to $20.2 billion in 2021. Early investors stand to make a killing, but you have to be ready to act and know just where to look. 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(WIX) : Free Stock Analysis Report Oracle Corporation (ORCL) : Free Stock Analysis Report Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) : Free Stock Analysis Report Illumina, Inc. (ILMN) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research (Bloomberg) -- Apple Inc.s former head of App Store approvals said hes worried about competition between the company and developers, and even recalled board member Al Gore asking about a controversial app approval. Phillip Shoemaker, who ran app reviews from 2009 to 2016, made the comments in the latest episode of Bloombergs Decrypted podcast ahead of Apples annual developers conference in early June. He also opened up about the personal toll of being the App Stores regulator. Before a developer can sell an app on the App Store, it must be approved by Apples app review team. There are over 2 million apps on the store, but many have been rejected since it opened in 2008. You are whats stopping an app from getting on the store and potentially making money for this developer to put food on the table and send their kids to school, Shoemaker said. It broke my heart every time I had to make those calls. Read about whats coming up at this years WWDC. In the early days, Apple had three reviewers look at each app. That led to long review times, which eventually decreased after the process shifted to one set of eyes, he said. Phil Schiller, Apples senior vice president of marketing who oversees the App Store, pushed for humans to review all apps, rather than just automated tools, to limit improper or buggy apps, Shoemaker said. Still, he said theres a lot of stuff in the store that shouldnt be there. Apple declined to comment. App reviewers worked in small conference rooms with Macs, iPhones, and iPads to test applications. Reviewers would come in each morning, pick 30 to 100 apps from a web tool, and download them devices for testing. It was a job that required long hours, Shoemaker recalled. Apple has hired more reviewers since then, and the work spaces in California are more open and collaborative now. It broke my heart every time I had to make those calls. Apple made sure that Shoemakers review team treated all third-party developers equally, even if they were giant technology companies supplying important apps for iPhones and iPads. I was calling out Facebook all the time on Twitter, he said. Even though they were one of these privileged developers, they had some of the worst code at the time. Story continues Shoemaker also spoke about Apple not approving the Google Voice calling service in the early days of the iPhone. He said there was concern inside Apple that companies like Google or Facebook could create a slew of apps that would replace core iPhone functions. That was a real thing. I mean the fear that somebody would come along, a Facebook, a Google, whomever and wipe off and remove all of our items, he said. Once they started using these other apps, they'd be thinking more about Google now. Ultimately, Google Voice and similar third-party calling services were approved for Apples App Store. Shoemaker also discussed Apples own applications competing more with apps from outside developers. This wasnt a problem in the early days of the iPhone because many of the things Apple did were so new. Nowadays, the company sometimes adds in-house software to the iPhone that is similar to existing offerings from other providers. There is now a conflict as Apple goes into these spaces that are ripe with competition, he said. I'm really worried about the competition. Apples Worldwide Developers Conference is where the company must strike a delicate balance between partnering and competing with developers. Shoemaker described preparations for the annual event, saying its likely chaos at Apple right now as the company finalizes presentations and other details. He also discussed the early days of the Apple Watch App Store and how it could improve with a store built into the watch itself. To contact the author of this story: Mark Gurman in Los Angeles at mgurman1@bloomberg.net To contact the editor responsible for this story: Alistair Barr at abarr18@bloomberg.net For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ICC International Cannabis Corp. (CSE:WRLD.U)(8K51.F)(WLDCF) ("ICC" or International Cannabis or the Company) is pleased to announce that the Company has entered into a binding Letter of Intent (the Agreement) with AgraFlora Organics International Inc. (AgraFlora) (CSE:AGRA)(PU31.F)(PUFXF), to acquire 100 per cent of AgraFloras Colombian pharmacy operation, Farma Swiss S.A.S. (Farma Swiss). The Agreement provides International Cannabis with a coveted LATAM brick-and-mortar presence, as well as existing high-profile commercial agreement, further augmenting the Companys THC/CBD cultivation capabilities and robust logistical infrastructure. ICCs addition of a premier downstream Colombian asset thus conceives a compliant and secure platform for the distribution of medical cannabis and cannabinoid-derived products within Colombia. It is anticipated that ICC will deploy a custom-made pharmacy compound strategy, originating with its inaugural Farma Swiss Colombian location. Farma Swiss operates a licensed pharmacy strategically situated within a high traffic, commercial neighbourhood of Medellin, Colombia. Farma Swiss fully licenced brick and mortar pharmacy operation is equipped with the following ancillary, value-added services: Inbound prescription call centre, augmented by advanced supply chain and CRM software suites; Domestic delivery service, providing local clientele with a vast array of medical pharmaceutical and over-the-counter (OTC) products; On-site health related services and consulting; Proposed cannabinoid education and doctor detailing staging ground; and, Virtual channel capabilities. David Shpilt, Chief Executive Officer of International Cannabis stated: The proposed acquisition of Farma Swiss represents yet another material development within the LATAM theatre for ICC; affording us the opportunity further leverage our first mover advantage within the Colombian medical cannabis market by directly servicing more than five million potential patients within the country. Story continues By integrating Farma Swiss intuitive pharmacy platform, with our 13-hectare cannabis centre of excellence and a preeminent catalogue of native Colombian cannabis genetics, ICC will continue to solidify its leadership position within Colombias high competitive medical cannabis marketplace, while streamlining patients access to our unique formulations. ICCs acquisition of Farma Swiss augments recently concluded commercial arrangements between AgraFlora and ICC, completing the Companies symbiotic vertically integrated global cannabis mandates: Five-year term off-take agreement whereby ICC may purchase up to 100,000,000 grams of premium dried cannabis flower from AgraFlora's Delta Greenhouse Complex; and, AgraFloras assignment of its library of 20 unique Colombian cannabis genetics to International Cannabis, including prominent THC and CBD varietals, such as: Caucana; Purpura; Medellin Gold; Maroc Brandon Boddy, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of AgraFlora noted: This strategic transaction further crystalizes our alliance with ICC with regards our collaborative pursuit of the burgeoning global cannabis trade. Monetizing of our flagship pharmacy operation to a trusted ally, permits us to streamline our international cannabis operations while focusing on the continued retrofit of our world class greenhouse complex in Delta, BC. We are excited to hereby increasing our shareholdings in ICC as they continue to execute upon their international business mandate and embark upon realizing material cash flows. International Cannabis also announces that the Company is actively investigating complementary pharmacy related assets within Colombia that may serve as synergistic accompaniments to its acquisition of Farma Swiss. Further details will be provided in due course as due diligence progresses. As per the terms of the Agreement, International Cannabis will issue AgraFlora such number of common shares in the capital of ICC that is equal to $250,000 based upon the five-day variable weighted average price of ICCs common shares for the five trading sessions prior to the announcement of the agreement. About AgraFlora Organics International Inc. AgraFlora Organics International Inc. is a growth oriented and diversified company focused on the international cannabis industry. It owns an indoor cultivation operation in London, ON and is a joint venture partner in Propagation Service Canada and its large-scale 2,200,000 sq. ft. greenhouse complex in Delta, BC. The Company has a successful record of creating shareholder value and is actively pursuing other opportunities within the cannabis industry. For more information please visit: www.agraflora.com . ABOUT INTERNATIONAL CANNABIS ICC International Cannabis, through its subsidiaries, has operating assets and is developing a world-class platform for cultivation, extraction, formulation and distribution across the globe in the United Kingdom, Denmark, Poland, Switzerland, Germany, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Malta, Colombia, Argentina, Australia, South Africa and Lesotho. ON BEHALF OF THE ICC INTERNATIONAL CANNABIS CORP BOARD OF DIRECTORS David Shpilt David Shpilt Chief Executive Officer +001 (604) 687-2038 info@intlcannabiscorp.com Investor Relations Contact: kris@intlcannabiscorrp.com +001 (416) 597-5769 For ICC French inquiries: Remy Scalabrini, Maricom Inc. E: rs@maricom.ca T: +001 (888) 585-MARI Learn more about ICC by visiting our website at: https://intlcannabiscorp.com/ ON BEHALF OF THE AGRAFLORA ORGANICS INTERNATIONAL INC BOARD OF DIRECTORS Brandon Boddy Chairman & CEO For additional information: AgraFlora Organics International Inc. Tim McNulty E: ir@agraflora.com T: (800) 783-6056 For French inquiries: Remy Scalabrini, Maricom Inc. E: rs@maricom.ca T: (888) 585-MARI THE CSE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS RELEASE. Notice Regarding Forward Looking Information: This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "continue", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or information that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. This information is only a prediction. Various assumptions were used in drawing the conclusions or making the projections contained in the forward-looking information throughout this news release. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to: political changes in Canada and internationally, future legislative and regulatory developments involving cannabis in Canada and internationally, the Companys ability to secure distribution channels in international jurisdictions, competition and other risks affecting the Company in particular and the cannabis industry generally. The forward-looking information contained in this release is expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements and is made as of the date of this release. Except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward- looking information to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. BEIJING, CHINA / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 /InvestDigital is a world leading digital currency financial institution, the leading explorer in decentralized finance (DeFi). InvestDigital is committed to providing digital currency financial services in the blockchain and creating a comprehensive digital currency financial group that integrates a fund platform, bank, and global payment system. Since the beginning of this year, Bitcoin has once again become the fastest growing asset in the world. With the increasing attention of central banks, multinational financial companies and Internet giants to digital currencies, the digital currency market is expected to enter a long-term bull market. Under this background, InvestDigital has rapidly expanded its global impact, held a series of promotional and public activity, and actively opened the markets in Australia, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, etc. The team also developed the InvestDigital eco-certification - IDT digital currency business ecosystem. InvestDigital four core businesses maps Globalization is an inevitable trend Regionalized transactions and competitions are contrary to the decentralized concept of digital assets and blockchain technology. Limited vision on a single regional market cannot satisfy users' demands for a global ecosystem. InvestDigital focuses on constructing a comprehensive digital currency financial group that integrates a fund platform (financial management), bank (lending), and global payment system (stable currency ecology). The team is also forward-looking and predictive in terms of digital currencies' international layout. In March 2019, InvestDigital's founding team visited Vietnam several times to research the market situation, contact with Vietnamese policymakers, business and blockchain industries to research the business plans of InvestDigital in the Vietnamese market. During the visits, InvestDigital team talked with local mainstream blockchain media Coin68, major cryptocurrency investment company Coin98, Dapp operation development team, and other mainstream blockchain investment institutions. Story continues The InvestDigital team stated that the Vietnamese market is an important location for the international layout of InvestDigital. As an economic powerhouse in Southeast Asia, Vietnam's local blockchain technology is easier to be landed and promoted. The team will strengthen cooperation with local enterprises and promote the business of InvestDigital in Vietnam. Leading blockchain technology is a hard power InvestDigital, as the leading expert in decentralized finance (DeFi), states their core value as "technology-driven, user-oriented". The team itself has leading blockchain technology and a rich talent pool, which is also an important strength for InvestDigital to explore the international market. In April, the InvestDigital core technology team participate in the global Ethereum Community Development Summit EDCON in Australia and discussed several technical issues with the Ethereum core development team. The team's technical strength was highly recognized by the Ethereum core development team. During the meeting, Vitalik Buterin carefully read the papers published by the InvestDigital team at the international academic conference on digital currency privacy solutions, and discuss in depth with the InvestDigital team about the solutions for privacy protection issue on Ethereum, ERC-20 tokens and stable coins. In the meantime, the InvestDigital team also discussed issues, such as digital currency cross-chain and privacy protection, with Cosmos founders and chief scientists, they looked forward to InvestDigital actively supporting the Cosmos business ecosystem. The blockchain industry has always been technology-centric, a solid technical foundation helps to advance the project and consolidate a company's position in the digital currency market. InvestDigital will take the first step of international operation by exporting leading blockchain technology. Deep business understanding is a soft power The InvestDigital project has been on the line for more than a year. Its digital asset management platform IDT.one has accumulated a large number of users and operational experience through its diversified, high-quality product matrix, perfect business model and obvious first-mover advantage. The team itself has not only a deep understanding of the business model of the blockchain market but also strong market development capabilities and extensive experiences in many aspects, such as brand positioning, precision marketing, and community building. These will become an important asset for InvestDigital to explore the global market. It is reported that since its establishment in 2018, InvestDigital has not only been largely welcomed by users in the secondary market but also won the favor of many domestic investment institutions. It has successively obtained investments from institutions, such as Huobi Eco, INBlockchain, Bixin, JLAB and etc. In 2019, the InvestDigital team held business meetings with internationally renowned investment institutions in Hong Kong and is expected to gain international capital assistance to accelerate the globalization of the brand. In the near future, InvestDigital will rely on its team of experts in the fields of quantitative finance, information security, and cryptography to create an upgraded version of digital asset investment services. The team will fully open up international operations and global distribution in order to speed up the globalization process with the help of international capital. Currently, institutions such as the New York Stock Exchange, JP Morgan, Facebook, and IBM are accelerating the deployment of digital currencies. Business competition in the field of digital currency is on the verge of being triggered, and it won't wait for you! With its first-mover advantage and deep experience in the digital currency industry, InvestDigital has sufficient reserves in terms of technical strength, market capacity and user scale, and the digital currency financial group have already formed a decent scale. dajian18@gmail.com SOURCE: Invdigital limited View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/546741/InvestDigital-accelerated-their-globalisation-strategy-Achieved-remarkable-result-in-building-the-ecology-of-digital-currency-business View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/546741/InvestDigital-accelerated-their-globalisation-strategy-Achieved-remarkable-result-in-building-the-ecology-of-digital-currency-business Investors stand in front of a screen showing the logo of Nomura Holdings in Tokyo, Japan, in this December 1, 2015 file photo. REUTERS/Toru Hanai/Files TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's financial watchdog on Tuesday ordered Nomura Holdings to improve its business practices after the country's biggest brokerage admitted an employee had leaked market information. The Financial Services Agency said it had issued one of its "business improvement orders" against Nomura, a regulatory punishment that requires firms to submit a plan detailing how they will improve internal controls. Nomura on Friday confirmed that information related to listing and delisting criteria now under review by the Tokyo Stock Exchange had been handled improperly. It has said that its chief executive would take a 30% pay cut for three months to take responsibility for the leak. "We deeply regret for what had happened and take the business improvement order seriously," Nomura said in a statement. "We sincerely apologize for causing great trouble for our clients and other stakeholders and having caused them to worry." Nomura had said an employee from its Nomura Research Institute affiliate leaked information about the expected changes to the chief strategist of its securities arm, who informed sales staff. The sales staff, in turn, told clients, Nomura has said. While the punishment does not include a fine, the incident marks the latest headache for CEO Koji Nagai as he struggles to turn around the investment bank. Nomura last month reported its first annual loss in a decade and said it would not pay out bonuses to directors. Nomura said it would submit its first plans to improve business practices by June 4. (Reporting by Takahiko Wada; Writing by Junko Fujita; Editing by David Dolan and Christopher Cushing) Former Vice President Joe Biden is preparing for a June fundraising blitz in New York, where he will be joined by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the investor Jim Chanos. The main event of Biden's trip will be at Chanos' home, according to people familiar with the matter. Cuomo will attend and introduce Biden. Biden's plan to hit up top Democratic donors in New York is the latest example of his aggressive fundraising approach as he contends for the right to take on President Trump in 2020. Former Vice President Joe Biden is preparing for a June fundraising blitz in New York, where he will be joined by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the short seller Jim Chanos, CNBC has learned. The main event of Biden's trip will be at Chanos' home, according to people familiar with the matter. Cuomo will attend and introduce Biden there. They will be joined by several prominent New York real estate executives, including Bruce Mosler, chairman of global brokerage at Cushman & Wakefield, Hal Fetner, CEO of Fetner Properties, and Kenneth Fisher, a co-managing partner at Fisher Brothers, the people added. Biden's plan to hit up top Democratic donors in New York is the latest example of his aggressive fundraising approach as he contends for the right to take on President Donald Trump in 2020. Throughout the 2018 congressional midterm elections, New York City financiers combined to give just over $272 million to Democratic causes, according to the nonpartisan Center for Responsive Politics. Biden leads the sprawling Democratic 2020 primary field by large margins, according to most polling. Cuomo's decision to attend one of Biden's first New York fundraisers comes after the governor indicated to party donors that he's looking to open his formidable fundraising network to the former Delaware senator, CNBC first reported . The governor publicly threw his support behind Biden in April, saying: "I think he has the best chance of defeating President Trump, which I think is the main goal here." Story continues CNBC also reported that Chanos was slated to attend at least one of the New York fundraisers next month and that Biden is preparing for a California Bay Area money-making tour at the end of June. In his first official day in the race, Biden raised $6.3 million, more than any other 2020 Democrat did on their first day. Chanos said in February that he would back Biden for president. The reception at Chanos' home will take place the evening of June 17, and tickets are expected to go for up to $2,800 per person. Real estate executives had been planning a separate fundraising breakfast for Biden but organizers decided to fold their event into one. People close to the Biden campaign said they expect at least 150 people to attend. Consolidating the two events, they said, made it possible for Biden to save time for other events during his New York trip. About 40 donors were expected to attend the breakfast. Fetner, who was organizing the breakfast with Mosler, said in an email that he was unaware their event would be blended into the Chanos reception. "I am happy to try and help Biden in any way," Fetner said. Mosler declined to comment. RXR Realty CEO Scott Rechler, who was also part of the group looking to host the breakfast for Biden, told CNBC he's helping the former vice president in the fundraising circuit but declined to provide details on what to expect when he's in town. "I've been a long-time Biden supporter. I plan to support him when it comes to New York as well," Rechler said Tuesday. "I think the people believe Joe brings a level of foundation, stability and insights that a lot of people have been supportive of for a long time," he added. There will be at least two other smaller gatherings for Biden during his visit to New York, which could carry into June 18, sources added. Chanos and representatives for Biden and Cuomo did not return requests for comment. Biden is continuing to dominate in polls of Democratic primary voters. A Real Clear Politics polling average has Biden up 17 points over his closet rival, Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont. Biden's strength in the race has caught the attention of Trump, who has turned the former vice president into one of his biggest targets. In a tweet, Trump bashed Biden for his role in the 1994 crime bill. During the president's visit to Japan to meet with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Trump sided with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un's purported assertion about Biden's intellect. "Well, Kim Jong Un made a statement that Joe Biden is a 'low-IQ individual.' He probably is, based on his record. I think I agree with him on that," Trump said. "I can tell you Joe Biden was a disaster with his administration with President Obama. They were basically a disaster when it came to so many things, whether it was economy, whether it was military defense, no matter what it was they had a lot of problems, so I am not a fan." Tweet: Tweet: More From CNBC California Senator and 2020 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has a plan for combating state-level abortion restrictions being passed in states across the country. Modeled after the Voting Rights Act, the Reproductive Rights Act has a preclearance requirement that would require that states with a history of violating Roe v. Wade obtain approval from the Justice Department before any laws that would restrict abortion can go into effect. This preclearance requirement was a key provision of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. It stipulated that changes to laws affecting voting in states with a history of implementing discriminatory voting practices would be subject to administrative review before they could go into effect. According to the Brennan Center for Justice, 86 proposed election changes were blocked between 1998 and 2013 due to this provision. As the law currently stands, states are not explicitly barred from passing legislation that contradict the tenets of Roe v. Wade. These laws are therefore only blocked from taking effect if someone files a lawsuit to challenge them, thereby putting the onus on these individuals. The Reproductive Rights Act would change this so that the onus would instead be on the states to prove that the law in question doesnt violate Roe. A preclearance requirement will make it harder for states to implement these dangerous and deadly laws and practices, the proposal on Harris website reads. Like the blatant voter suppression the Voting Rights Act was designed to prevent, these restrictions on abortion fall disproportionately on people of color. Any state that has a history of violating Roe v. Wade in the last 25 years would be subject to this preclearance requirement, including in states such as South Carolina, Iowa, and Georgia. Until the DOJ rules on the law in question, it would continue to be legally unenforceable. The proposal also includes a provision to insulate it from anti-abortion administrations, whereby individuals will have the ability to challenge DOJs approval of a law or practice in federal court, serving as a check on hostile administrations. Story continues Between 2011 and 2015, 288 abortion restrictions have been enacted at the state level, according to the Guttmacher Institute. In recent months, states from Alabama to Missouri have passed laws that range from banning abortion after eight weeks of pregnancy to a near total ban on abortion. Harris is not the only Democratic presidential candidate to unveil proposals for curbing state-led efforts to restrict abortion. Several others, including Sens. Elizabeth Warren, Kirsten Gillibrand, and Cory Booker have proposed codifying abortion lawsbut Harris believes this is not enough. Harris plan would face an uphill battle to be implemented: it would require Senate approval, which will be challenging if it remains under Republican control. More must-read stories from Fortune: How civil rights and liberties activists are taking on Capitol Hill What exactly is ranked-choice voting? 21 abortion restrictions have already been enacted in 2019 Should Title VII civil rights protections include the LGBTQ community? Human Trafficking is an epidemic in the U.S. Its also big business TORONTO, May 27, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Magna Gold Corp. (MGR-P.V) (Magna or the Corporation), is pleased to announce that its qualifying transaction (the Qualifying Transaction) is scheduled to close on June 5, 2019 pursuant to the policies of the Exchange. The Corporation received final approval of the Qualifying Transaction from the Exchange and approval of the filing statement prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Exchange (the Filing Statement) dated May 27, 2019, which is available on the Corporations SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Trading of the common shares of the Corporation (the Resulting Issuer Shares) is expected to resume trading on the Exchange under the symbol MGR upon completion of the Qualifying Transaction. Pursuant to the option agreement dated September 25, 2018 and amended March 22, 2019 (the Agreement) comprising the Qualifying Transaction, the Corporation has acquired from the Seller an option (Option) to acquire a 100% undivided interest (the Proposed Transaction) in two mining claims (the Mercedes Property) located in the municipality of Yecora, Sonora, Mexico, for a four-year period. The Property consists of two contiguous claims covering an aggregate area of approximately 345 hectares is located approximately 250 kilometers east-southeast along the Federal Highway 16 from the state capital, Hermosillo. In consideration of the grant of the Option, Magna will: (i) pay to the Seller an aggregate of US$1,340,000 plus VAT of 16%, paid in installments commencing on the 6th month from the effective date of the Agreement (the Effective Date) and ending on the 48th month from the Effective Date; (ii) issue to the Seller a 3% net smelter returns (NSR), capped at US$3,500,000 and subject to the right of the Corporation to acquire all 3 percentage points of the NSR at a price of US$500,000 per percentage point, within the first three (3) years of commercial production of the Mercedes Property; and (iii) conditional on the completion of a going public transaction within six months of the Effective Date, issue 2,442,105 common shares (Common Shares) of the Corporation to the Seller. On the Effective Date, the Discounted Market Price of the Common Shares was CAD$0.30 per Common Share. The Agreement is subject to regulatory approval. Story continues Concurrent Financing In connection with the Qualifying Transaction, the Corporation completed a non-brokered concurrent private placement financing (the Concurrent Financing) for gross proceeds of CAD$2,668,219, comprised of the sale of 8,338,184 common shares (Common Shares) in the capital of the Corporation, sold a price of CAD $0.32 per Common Share. Proceeds of the private placement will be used for exploration activities on the Mercedes Property located in Sonora State, Mexico, and for working capital purposes. The securities offered have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or applicable state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold to persons in the United States absent registration or an exemption from such registration requirements. This press 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. The participation in the Concurrent Financing by Colin Sutherland constitutes a related party transaction as defined by Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101), requiring the Corporation, in the absence of exemptions, to obtain a formal valuation for, and minority shareholder approval of, the related party transaction. It is anticipated that Mr. Sutherland will purchase approximately 312,500 Common Shares in connection with the Concurrent Financing, representing approximately 0.84% of the Corporations issued and outstanding Common Shares on completion of the Concurrent Financing. The Corporation is relying on an exemption from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements set out in MI 61-101 as the fair market value of the participation in the Concurrent Financing of Mr. Sutherland does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Corporation, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. Management of the Resulting Issuer As of the date hereof, the board of directors of the Corporation consists of Francisco Arturo Bonillas Zepeda, Alexander Tsakumis, and Colin Sutherland. Effective as of the date of the closing of the Qualifying Transaction, Carmelo Marrelli has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation. As previously announced on October 11, 2018, Miguel Angel Soto y Bedolla has been appointed as the Vice President of Exploration of the Corporation. Other than the foregoing officers and directors, there are no insiders of the Corporation as of the date hereof. The Las Marias Property and Las Cabanas mineral claims The Corporation also announces that it has entered into an agreement to acquire 100% interest in Las Marias Property and Las Cabanas mineral claims (the Las Marias/Las Cabanas Transaction). Las Marias Property consists of 7 mining concessions covering 646 hectares adjacent to the Mercedes Property and Las Cabanas consists of 2 claims covering 248 hectares located approximately 10 km south-west of the Mercedes Property. The total purchase price for the new mineral concessions and other rights will be of $250,000 and the issuance of 1,000,000 common shares of the Corporation. Magnas total land tenure will increase to 1,239 hectares of highly prospective ground (see figure 2). The Las Marias/Las Cabanas Transaction is subject to Exchange approval. The Corporation also announces that it has received approval from the Mexican environmental authorities to begin an exploration and drill program on the property, including surface agreements with the local surface owners; Magna has prepared an initial exploration and drill program that should begin within the next 15 days. To date, Magna has raised total gross proceeds of $5,240,719 including seed money raised prior to the IPO plus the recently concluded non-brokered private placement as announced on March 13, 2019. The Corporations share structure including payment in shares for Las Marias transaction will be of 38,855,289 issued and outstanding common shares. Fig. 1 Magna Gold Corp Qualifying Transaction is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/df5b4d3f-e498-4760-9370-3980c9129de8 Fig. 2 Magna Gold Corp Total Land Tenure is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/42825a38-343d-4e30-a558-5df2449aeb59 The Mercedes Gold Project Historical drilling reported gold intersections (see Tables 1 and 2 and Figures 7, 8 and 9) associated with broad high sulphidation epithermal type alteration within volcanic rocks. Regionally, the project is situated on a 20 km long mineralized trend hosting some important exploration targets and numerous old mining workings. Historical drilling at Las Mercedes project targeted the La Lamosa Hill, a prominent highly oxidized red ridge visible from the highway (see Fig 3). There are 5 exploration targets with similar alteration as well as two old mines known as Mina del Oro and Las Marias within the claims. In general, the property shows extended surface mineralization that makes it suitable for additional exploration works (see Fig 4). Fig. 3 La Lamosa Hill is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/935c0bd0-3e70-4bf6-a217-7672b679adde Fig. 4 Mercedes Project Exploration Targets is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4dc09364-4955-4aba-b5b8-ac5c87fe5783 The Mercedes Gold Project Location The project is located 43 km from Alamos Gold 3 Moz Mulatos Gold Mine, 40 km from Agnicos 1 Moz La India Gold Mine, and adjacent to Minera Alamos Santana and Santa Rosa projects. Mineralization present on these projects reflects the potential of the general region, not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Mercedes property. Infrastructure and support services are available to the project; paved Federal Highway 16 passes through the western portion of the claims. Electricity, mail, phone services and accommodation are available at the nearby villages of Yecora and Santana. An electrical line (C.F.E.) passes through the property as it parallels the paved highway. Fig. 5 Mercedes Project Location is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/15bdaf03-5abf-448c-bb6e-84b004225bba Geology Mercedes hosts mineralization characteristic of high sulphidation epithermal systems typical of major deposits in the region such as the Mulatos Alamos Gold Mine, the La India and Pinos Altos Agnico Eagle Mines and Ocampo Frisco's mine. Mercedes is located toward the western edge of the Sierra Madre and predominantly underlain by intrusive rocks, granodiorite-monzonite plutonic rocks and quartz feldspar porphyry dykes and stocks exposed by erosion of intermediate and felsic volcanic packages of the Lower and Upper Volcanic sequences. Outcrop in key areas of the property are strongly altered brecciated intrusives and some propyliticaly altered volcanics. Zoned assemblages of silica, phyllic, argillic and distal propylitic alteration are recognized. Fig. 6 Regional Geology is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f359a6b1-cedd-4746-b0c3-857d97e93f10 Previous Drilling on La Lamosa Hill Previous exploration work includes two phases of drilling. In 1996 Compania Minera Fernanda completed 15 reverse circulation holes for a total of 1,018 m, and in 2008 Norma Mines completed 10 core holes for a total of 1,113 m. Total meterage of historical drilling amounts to 2,131 m in 25 drill holes. Both drill programs reported gold mineralization from surface. The drilled area tested an approximately 350 m long SW NE trend over La Lamosa ridge. Mineralization continues open on both ends along the ridge and drill intersects show mineralization still open at a depth of 150 m. Drilling Data presented below are historical in nature and are presented to provide an indication of previously reported mineralization at Mercedes. The QP was unable to independently verify assay results as original core/RC chips, sample rejects or residues were unavailable for re-sampling. A review of digital copies of assay sheets and was possible and drill collars for most of the holes listed were located by the QP in the field, locations confirmed using hand-held GPS. Verification of mineralization was undertaken by physical examination and chip-sampling of outcrops in and around the historical drilling area. Sampling was performed under direct supervision of the QP and results of said sampling confirmed gold and silver grades within expectations based upon drilling values historically reported and listed below. Mercedes is an early stage exploration project, the QPs surface examination and sampling confirms the presence of a mineralized trend hosting gold-silver mineralization suitable for drill testing to verify strike length, depth continuity and true width. Historical drilling results are presented in the following figures and tables: Fig. 7 Historical Drilling Plan View is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d0a258cf-182f-4722-9617-0087a5321437 Fig. 8 Cross Section NE025 showing interpreted mineralized envelope is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/508fd23d-e72c-4676-8d9a-bf18368f8583 Fig. 9 Cross Section NE150 showing interpreted mineralized envelope is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a0dbca01-6fac-42dc-8fdb-c6ab00772116 Table 1 Summary of 1996 RC drilling program1 RC Hole No. Dip From (m) To (m) Width (m) Au g/t Ag g/t YRC-1-1 0.00 30.00 30.00 0.620 4.0 Include 17.00 28.00 11.00 0.980 4.2 YRC-1-2 21.00 32.00 11.00 0.720 1.6 YRC-2 0.00 9.00 9.00 0.650 26.9 and 54.00 64.00 10.00 0.900 3.6 YRC-3 22.00 68.00 46.00 0.600 33.1 Include 22.00 37.00 15.00 0.490 12.7 YRC-4 0.00 60.00 60.00 0.520 22.2 Or 0.00 20.00 20.00 0.890 16.7 Or 0.00 40.00 40.00 0.660 19.8 YRC-5 19.00 25.00 6.00 0.640 8.0 YRC-6 2.00 32.00 30.00 2.390 7.2 Include 9.00 22.00 13.00 4.260 7.5 Include 17.00 22.00 5.00 8.510 15.4 YRC-7 0.00 48.00 48.00 1.440 36.3 Include 0.00 35.00 35.00 1.840 48.1 Include 0.00 27.00 27.00 2.000 57.1 YRC-8 0.00 19.00 19.00 0.310 16.8 YRC-9 28.00 38.00 10.00 1.320 94.6 YRC-10 0.00 59.00 59.00 0.640 28.9 Include 49.00 59.00 10.00 1.030 24.6 YRC-11 0.00 38.00 38.00 2.420 37.3 Include 11.00 32.00 21.00 3.520 55.0 Include 26.00 28.00 2.00 17.770 297.8 YRC-12 0.00 18.00 18.00 0.440 10.5 YRC-13 0.00 54.00 54.00 1.200 39.9 Include 7.00 24.00 17.00 3.370 136.1 Include 10.00 15.00 5.00 6.180 281.0 YRC-14 0.00 86.00 86.00 0.650 136.1 Include 28.00 33.00 5.00 3.250 109.1 Table 2 Summary of 2008 DD drilling program Core Hole No. Dip Length (m) From (m) To (m) Width (m) Au g/t Ag g/t MER08-01 -70 165.0 0.00 144.00 144.00 0.484 12.61 Include 0.00 17.00 17.00 0.943 3.02 Include 17.00 32.00 15.00 1.050 13.60 Include 51.00 80.00 29.00 0.888 8.28 Include 59.00 64.00 5.00 1.476 1.40 Include 85.00 87.00 2.00 0.533 19.60 Include 136.00 137.00 1.00 0.990 2.40 MER08-2 -60 133.5 0.00 113.00 113.00 0.370 10.70 Include 25.00 30.00 5.00 1.063 18.52 Include 26.00 27.00 1.00 3.320 15.00 Include 43.50 56.00 12.50 0.511 30.02 64.00 68.00 4.00 0.400 4.70 72.00 77.00 5.00 0.592 20.30 84.00 89.00 5.00 0.416 5.73 Include 106.00 113.00 7.00 0.839 9.65 MER08-03 -60 137.0 0.00 57.00 57.00 1.135 13.7 Include 11.00 24.00 13.00 1.319 21.74 Include 11.00 12.00 1.00 1.910 223.51 Include 33.00 57.00 24.00 1.770 16.93 Include 34.00 36.00 2.00 11.845 48.18 Include 38.00 39.00 1.00 1.700 147.87 Include 38.00 43.00 5.00 1.618 4.28 Include 54.00 57.00 3.00 1.677 10.23 MER08-04 -65 153.0 60.00 61.05 1.50 0.050 121.50 MER08-05 -65 83.0 25.5 28.5 3.00 0.005 84.7 1 Drilling results sourced from historical progress reports, summary reports and assay sheets. Values included herein provide general example of expected grades, original sample material unavailable and therefore unverified by Magna QA/QC program. True thickness of mineralization unknown. Surface Mineralization Over the course of the years several Companies have carried out rock geochemistry work on the property. Obtained reports show strong oxidation in the form of hematite/limonite/jarosite staining and strong silica, vuggy silica and argillic alteration. Figure 10 and Table 3 below show the latest sampling. Fig. 10 Rock Chip Sampling at Mercedes Project is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d2ec913b-5510-4704-a464-6ad532797128 Table 3 Surface Rock Chip Sampling Sample #ID Sample number Length (m) Au ppm Ag ppm Cu ppm Pb ppm Sample No. Length (m) Au ppb Ag ppm Cu ppm Pb ppm 1 135753 1.0 5.560 89 18 3,700 986063 1 821 40.8 21.1 619.7 2 135726 1.2 0.836 5 36 71 986064 2 185 100 >10,000 28.7 3 135727 1.5 0.866 23 38 101 986065 5 179 1 119 140 4 135728 1.5 1.165 36 20 95 986066 10 648 2.3 83.2 158 5 135729 2.0 2.650 114 36 278 986067 8 1,375 5.9 23.4 493 6 135730 1.9 1.755 13 14 41 986068 8 475 5.6 8.1 298.6 7 135732 1.2 1.185 13 13 91 986069 10 561 17.5 18.8 416.2 8 135733 0.9 0.881 8 9 90 986070 6 1,634 14.6 14.1 786.1 9 135734 1.3 1.315 3 8 172 986071 6 549 8.8 12.4 603.9 10 135735 1.2 0.899 2 9 100 986072 1.2 2,072 57.7 45.8 6,921.9 11 135736 2.0 0.511 2 23 97 986073 3 94 3.7 61.1 513.5 12 135737 1.6 1.000 3 16 266 986074 0.7 195 8.2 85 >10,000 13 135742 1.2 3.770 1 7 1,210 986075 2 136 4 22.7 395.5 14 135743 1.5 0.506 4 8 607 986076 1 51 0.5 14 824.5 15 135744 1.2 0.517 6 21 710 986077 1 12 0.2 35.4 38.6 16 135745 1.5 1.675 5 16 261 986078 1 44 0.7 22.2 2,193.10 17 135747 2.0 1.210 5 18 467 Average: 4.1 564 17 39 962.1 18 135749 1.2 0.578 3 12 611 19 135750 1.4 0.622 4 15 299 NOTE: 20 135754 2.0 1.260 23 22 329 Left Table: Surface rock chip sambling by Agnico Eagle assayed by ALS Minerals (dated report in April 11, 2017). 21 135759 1.5 0.533 2 17 95 Right Table: Surface rock chip sampling by Dale Brittliffe assayed by ACME Labs. 22 135760 1.5 1.280 1 24 103 23 135761 1.5 0.712 0.5 31 119 24 135764 1.5 0.801 3 13 342 25 135768 1.5 1.475 4 281 476 26 135771 2.0 1.140 17 126 541 Average: 1.5 1.330 15 33 434 Dale Brittliffe, P.Geo., independent geological consultant and author of the report NI 43-101 Technical Report Mercedes Property, Yecora Area, Municipality of Yecora, Sonora, Mexico prepared for Magna Gold Corp with an effective date of April 30, 2019 is a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101, and has approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. About Magna Gold Corp. Upon completion of the Qualifying Transaction, Magna will become an exploration company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange with its sole project located in the municipality of Yecora, Sonora, Mexico. For more information, please contact Francisco Arturo Bonillas Zepeda, the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary and a director of the Corporation. Francisco Arturo Bonillas Zepeda CEO, CFO, Corporate Secretary and Director E: abonillas@magnagoldcorp.com T: +52 662.310.0326 www.magnagoldcorp.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 includes certain "forward-looking statements" which are not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe the Companys future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as believes, anticipates, expects, estimates, may, could, would, will, or plan. Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to the Company, the Company provides no assurance that actual results will meet managements expectations. Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the Companys objectives, goals or future plans, statements, exploration results, potential mineralization, the estimation of mineral resources, exploration and mine development plans, timing of the commencement of operations and estimates of market conditions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to failure to identify mineral resources, failure to convert estimated mineral resources to reserves, the inability to complete a feasibility study which recommends a production decision, the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals, political risks, inability to fulfill the duty to accommodate First Nations and other indigenous peoples, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, changes in equity markets, inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in the development of projects, capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, and those risks set out in the Companys public documents filed on SEDAR. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. The second edition of the Malta A.I. & Blockchain Summit has solidified its position as a world leading event in the sectors of A.I., blockchain, crypto, and other emerging technologies. Welcoming a staggering 5,500 delegates, 150 exhibitors and 100 start-ups over the two-day event, the show brought together key players from these converging sectors to discuss and shape the future. Following a recent thaw of the crypto winter, the spring event delivered some unmissable keynotes and panels, prompting debate on the sectors flourishing business opportunities. VIP speakers included Brock Pierce, Ben Goertzel, Larry Sanger, Patrick Chang, and Noel Sharkey to name but a few, all sharing valuable insights and enriching the audience in the process. In one notable verbal joust, The second edition of the Malta A.I. & Blockchain Summit has solidified its position as a world leading event in the sectors of A.I., blockchain, crypto, and other emerging technologies. Welcoming a staggering 5,500 delegates, 150 exhibitors and 100 start-ups over the two-day event, the show brought together key players from these converging sectors to discuss and shape the future. Following a recent thaw of the crypto winter, the spring event delivered some unmissable keynotes and panels, prompting debate on the sectors flourishing business opportunities. VIP speakers included Brock Pierce, Ben Goertzel, Larry Sanger, Patrick Chang, and Noel Sharkey to name but a few, all sharing valuable insights and enriching the audience in the process. In one notable verbal joust, Roger Ver took on Tone Vays in a BTC vs BTC Cash showdown. In fact, the conference floor was rarely empty as an elite line-up of speakers kept the audience engaged with a series of panels, keynotes and fireside chats, addressing the questions on everyones mind. Keynotes from industry giants Noel Sharkey and Bobby Lee were a hit with the audience, with Bobby Lee emphatic on Bitcoins staying power, saying he believed it would eventually go up to a million dollars. The Hon. Joseph Muscat, Prime Minister of Malta, also lent an air of prestige to proceedings, when he reinforced the governments support for the industry as he gave a well-received keynote. Eman Pulis, Founder of Malta A.I. & Blockchain Summit and CEO of SiGMA Group, commented, The results have been overwhelming. Were staying a step ahead, helping the government bring all these great minds to Malta, fueling the Maltese economy by supporting the tech ecosystem. Theres plenty of incentives for A.I. and Blockchain companies to relocate to Malta, so what better forum than a summit like this to bring everyone together. I think its safe to assume its the largest show in its category worldwide so far this year. Story continues Bobby Lee CEO, BTCC I truly believe Bitcoin is here to stay, so hold on to your Bitcoin because youre going to be very tempted to sell when it goes up to a million dollars. Roger Ver Angel Investor Overall income per capita is significantly higher in countries with economic freedom literary rates soar, life expectancy is higher, fewer people unemployed and fewer babies die in childbirth. Bitcoin cash and digital currency are the best tools the world has ever seen to accomplish these goals. Larry Sanger Co-founder, Wikipedia One of the main reasons blockchain has been exploding in popularity is it gives us the opportunity to take back control over data and our relationships. We should own our own data. The next Malta A.I. & Blockchain Summit takes place on November 7th-8th, 2019. Website: www.maltablockchainsummit.com The post Malta A.I. & Blockchain Summit welcomes 5,500 delegates appeared first on Coin Rivet. Marriott Executive Takes on New Challenge of Growing Design Hotels Brand When attempting to grow the brand affinity of a group of small-size hotels with customers, having a rewards partner like Marriott doesnt hurt. Design Hotels oversees the digital distribution and marketing for a collection of 316 independently owned boutique hotels around the world. Marriott also owns 74 percent of the company by way of its Starwood acquisition in 2016 which is publicly traded in Germany. Former Marriott senior executive Peter Cole has been at the helm of Design Hotels since December, citing a need for a new challenge after more than two decades at the worlds largest hotel group. Most recently, Cole was managing director of business integration at Marriott, where he led a longer than expected integration of Starwood Hotels. I spent a lot of time understanding hospitality and building relationships at Marriott, said Cole. That experience allowed me to leverage this leadership role and work in a completely different way. Thats because Design Hotels is not a chain, Cole added. Design Hotels also banks on unique architectural concepts to attract guests. These include converted hotel monasteries, lodgings that play up a citys local art scene, and old-fashioned hotels located outside of traditional urban markets. Design Hotels Loyalty Agreement When Starwood first acquired a 50 percent stake in Design Hotels in 2011, the company allowed SPG rewards members to earn and redeem points at any Design Hotels property. The option is now extended to Marriott Bonvoy members. Both companies will launch a joint television ad this summer highlighting the partnership. Coles greatest early challenge as CEO is to introduce new tools that can help hoteliers leverage the Marriott Bonvoy partnership more easily, but also grow brand awareness outside of the chains network. Only 125 of Design Hotels total property partners have entered into a loyalty agreement with Marriott, he said. We are independently run, and for us leveraging distribution through Marriott is only part of the story, said Cole. We look to figure out how to best represent our hotels by connecting them with the right online travel agents and featuring them in design focused publications to play up different concepts. Design Hotels revenue eclipsed 24.5 million euros in 2018, up 7 percent over the year prior, according to financials. Subscribe to Skift newsletters covering the business of travel, restaurants, and wellness. Yesenia McNett sings the National Anthem during the first annual Memorial Day on the Plaza on Monday, May 27, 2019. Whoever wins will have the unenviable task of trying to deliver Brexit after a political deadlock and three failed parliamentary votes brought down Theresa May who resigned as leader on Friday. Fighting back tears, the outgoing prime minister said she had done everything she could to honor the 2016 EU referendum result. The race to become the next leader of the Conservative Party, and consequently the next U.K. prime minister, has begun to accelerate with the first round of voting set to take place next week. Whoever wins will have the unenviable task of trying to deliver Brexit after a political deadlock and three failed parliamentary votes helped bring down Theresa May who resigned as leader on Friday. CNBC takes a look at the Conservative lawmakers who are vying for power through the prism of Britain's withdrawal from the EU. Boris Johnson This is not the first Conservative leadership contest for the former foreign secretary and mayor of London, after he prematurely ended a previous attempt in 2016 that paved the way for May to enter Downing Street. He is one of Britain's most globally prominent but domestically-divisive politicians. May brought him into her government in a senior role that left him responsible for Britain's presence on the world stage and frequently kept him away from Westminster. He later resigned from his post as a result of May's willingness to lead the U.K. into what he called a "semi-Brexit" that would leave Britain as a "colony" of the European Union. He has recently insisted that Britain must stick to the new October 31 Brexit deadline; that he would attempt to renegotiate the complex and contentious Northern Irish backstop contained within the Britain's withdrawal agreement with Brussels something May tried and failed to do repeatedly. But absent changes to that backstop, Johnson has said he would take the U.K. out of Europe without a deal. Dominic Raab Story continues The former minister tasked with handling Brexit negotiations for May after his predecessor David Davis resigned, Raab stayed in the role for a little more than four months before he too quit in protest at the deal May finally struck with the EU. He called the deal a betrayal of Conservative Party manifesto promises made during the 2017 general election campaign, insisting that the Irish backstop was undemocratic and that the deal threatened the integrity of the United Kingdom because of regulatory differences it would introduce for Northern Ireland. Raab is another leadership contender who says Britain must leave the EU on October 31, perhaps even without a deal, and he has hinted that it might be possible for a prime minister to pursue that course of action unilaterally, without parliamentary approval. Andrea Leadsom Her resignation as leader of the House of Commons made her the last of the three-dozen ministers who have stepped down from May's government in the past 13 months. In a sign of the divisive nature of the Brexit process for those inside the British cabinet, she was the 31st minister to do so for reasons relating to the U.K.'s departure from the European Union. In her role as Commons leader, Leadsom acted as the interface between the government and the lower chamber of the British parliament, a polarizing and at times difficult role during a period of heightened confrontation between the executive and legislature. Leadsom's departure appears to have been the final straw for May's premiership, since it was within 48 hours that the embattled prime minister finally announced her Downing Street departure date. Leadsom had previously ceded her prime ministerial ambitions to May in 2016, to prevent a prolonged struggle between two final candidates in that most recent Conservative leadership race. But her raised public profile as a Leave campaigner during the Brexit referendum earlier that year had propelled her to the runner-up spot in that previous contest, despite her lack of cabinet-level experience. Esther McVey The former work and pensions secretary under May, she resigned the same day as Dominic Raab and claimed that the prime minister's negotiated Brexit deal did not honor the result of the 2016 referendum. In her resignation letter she repeated a common refrain among Conservative euroskeptics in recent months that the Northern Irish backstop contained in the withdrawal agreement would "trap" the U.K. in a permanent customs union with Europe, and would "bind the hands" of future governments that might seek to strike fresh trade deals. Over the weekend, she told Sky News that what she called an "invisible border" between the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom is already technically possible, despite the EU's insistence that this is not yet the case. She argued that the U.K. must leave Europe on October 31, with or without a deal, and that politicians must regain the trust of the British public with an honest appraisal of the 2016 referendum result. Sajid Javid A former managing director at Deutsche Bank, Javid is the first member of an ethnic minority to serve as home secretary, the British equivalent to a minister of the interior with responsibility for immigration and security. He took on the role after his predecessor resigned during a national scandal about their department's role in deporting legal residents whose residency paperwork the government had lost. In announcing his candidacy he said the dismal Conservative performance in the European parliamentary elections over the weekend showed that the party must deliver Brexit and do so quickly. His personal backstory as the son of a bus driver is markedly different to that of many of his Conservative colleagues and competitors, but he too insists that restoring trust in British politics must be a priority. He originally voted to remain in the EU during 2016's referendum. This fact may work against Javid if he makes it through the parliamentary voting rounds to compete in a ballot of party members, since polls indicate that members' views on Brexit have become increasingly hardline and purist. Matt Hancock The minister responsible for Britain's health and social service system, he has previously worked as an economist at the Bank of England. Hancock has written this week in British newspaper The Daily Mail that it is "mission critical" for the Conservative Party to complete the Brexit process, after its disastrous performance in European parliamentary elections. He has tried to assure his fellow Conservative lawmakers that they would not need to go through a general election until after he has led them through Brexit as prime minister. But he has also made clear in a BBC radio interview that there must be "trade offs" between access to European markets and British sovereignty, in order to get a Brexit deal through the current parliament, he has indicated he would not be prepared to pursue a "no deal" policy. Michael Gove One of the most high-profile Brexit supporters during the 2016 referendum, Gove's commitment to Brexit has never been in doubt, but he has also not insisted that October 31 must be a hard deadline for Britain to exit the EU. He says he wants to unify his party and has implied that a deal with Brussels is ultimately the best way to do that. He damaged his reputation as a trustworthy politician for his decision to end his support for Boris Johnson during the last leadership contest in 2016, but even his political critics have acknowledged that he has proven himself a capable minister with innovative ideas. And according to one lawmaker who has campaigned for the rights of Europeans living in the U.K., Gove has promised this week that if he becomes prime minister then he will offer those roughly 3 million EU nationals the opportunity to obtain British citizenship free of charge. Jeremy Hunt The current foreign secretary has overnight reiterated in an article for British newspaper The Daily Telegraph his view that a "no deal" Brexit would be disastrous not only for the U.K., but would constitute "political suicide" for the Conservative Party as it would trigger a general election that would risk the party's "extinction." Hunt has served in senior government roles for the best part of a decade, and oversaw Britain's hosting of the 2012 Olympics. He was a high-profile opponent of Brexit during the 2016 referendum campaign, but has publicly said he has reconciled himself with the need to honor the referendum result. He replaced his Oxford University contemporary Boris Johnson as foreign secretary, and as the founder of a successful directory business before he entered government, he is the wealthiest member of the current cabinet. He has stated that his entrepreneurial acumen would help him renegotiate a better deal than May was able to reach with the EU. Rory Stewart As a relatively newly-installed international development secretary, Stewart perhaps enjoys a slightly lower profile outside of the U.K. than many of his rivals for the Conservative leadership. But he first rose to public prominence almost two decades ago when he wrote a book as a young British diplomat about walking solo across a war-torn Afghanistan just months after Al-Qaeda launched the 9/11 attacks from there. He went on to administrate a southern Iraqi province after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion there, so he can lay claim to the rather unique experience of having mediated between warring tribes a skill that might prove useful in contemporary Westminster. He has said recently that British politics needs to take itself more seriously and has publicly criticized several of his competitors, most notably Boris Johnson. He says he wants to strike a deal and then to move on to focus on other domestic priorities if he becomes prime minister. Kit Malthouse The minister currently responsible for housing, Malthouse gained a reputation as a pragmatist and mediator earlier this year when Conservative lawmakers with widely different views on Brexit came together for discussions he chaired, to thrash out a compromise that was then put to May. It called for a reworking of the Irish backstop through the establishment of a free trade agreement between the U.K. and EU, as well as an extension to the Brexit deadline. But the suggestion although voted through by Parliament was never seriously pursued by May's negotiators, nor indeed European officials. Malthouse was previously deputy mayor of London and voted for the U.K. to leave Europe, but in his announcement as a candidate he said that any deal will need "unity" across the country, and that a "new generation" of politicians unscarred by internal Conservative conflicts must lead the party forward into the future. More From CNBC KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) Family, friends and supporters welcomed a veteran Sherpa guide upon his return to Nepal's capital on Saturday, days after his 24th climb of Mount Everest extended his record. After flying back from Everest to Kathmandu, Kami Rita was greeted by the waiting crowd at the airport. His wife hugged him and the crowd covered him with a cream-colored scarf and offered him yogurt. The brief celebration at the airport parking area with traditional drums was followed by Rita riding on a truck waving to supporters as they drove out of the airport. He told reporters he was very happy but exhausted. Rita reached Everest's 8,850-meter (29,035-foot) peak on Tuesday, the second time he had climbed to the summit in a week. He also reached the top of the world's highest peak on May 15, then returned to base camp before climbing again this past week. The climbs bring Rita, 49, closer to his target of 25 ascents of Everest before he retires from high mountain climbing. His two closest peers have climbed Everest 21 times each, but both of them have retired from mountain climbing. There are 41 teams with a total of 378 climbers permitted to scale Everest during the spring climbing season. An equal number of Nepalese guides are helping them get to the summit. About half a dozen climbers died this past week, most of them while descending from the summit during only a few windows of good weather each May. Most are believed to have suffered from altitude sickness, which is caused by low amounts of oxygen at high elevation and can cause headaches, vomiting, shortness of breath and mental confusion. Among the latest fatalities was British climber Robin Haynes Fisher, 44. Murari Sharma, managing director of Everest Parivar Expedition Pvt Ltd, said Fisher and his Sherpa guide reached the summit at around 8:30 .a.m. on Saturday and had descended 150 meters (490 feet) when he fell unconscious. A group of Sherpas changed his oxygen bottle and tried to give him some water but he could not be revived, he said. Rita first scaled Everest in 1994 and has been making the trip nearly every year since. His father was among the first Sherpa guides employed to help climbers reach the summit, and Rita followed in his footsteps and then some. In addition to his two dozen summits of Everest, Rita has scaled some of the other highest mountains, including K-2, Cho-Oyu, Manaslu and Lhotse. Sherpa tribespeople were mostly yak herders and traders living deep within the Himalayas until Nepal opened its borders in the 1950s. Their stamina and familiarity with the mountains quickly made them sought-after guides and porters. By Barani Krishnan Investing.com - After a two-week barrage of Persian Gulf tensions to trade war scares, the oil market has fallen eerily quiet. The July contract for West Texas Intermediate futures, the benchmark for U.S. crude, settled up 51 cents, or 0.9%, at $59.14 per barrel. The August contract for U.K.-traded Brent futures, the global benchmark for oil, settled down 10 cents, or 0.15%, to $68.67 a barrel . The July contract settled unchanged at $70.11. Analysts saw the disparity in the gains between WTI and Brent as the trade's attempt to close the U.S. benchmark's gap with the U.K. contracts that gained during Monday's Memorial Day holiday. Still, the strong moves in WTI came amid a dearth of market-moving headlines. It was a stark contrast to the past two weeks when there was a barely a moment for traders to pause as the Saudis accused Iran of sabotaging the kingdom's oil infrastructure, the U.S. beefed up its military presence in the Gulf in anticipation of an attack from Tehran, and Washinton and Beijing targeted each other's economies in the absence of a trade deal. The only news that mattered on Tuesday seemed to be concerns about flooding in Oklahoma that could impact crude stored at the Cushing delivery base for WTI there. For the record, Cushing stockpiles measured by market intelligence firm Genscape, showed a 700,000 barrels drop for last week, those who saw the data said. "It's so quiet, like the whole world market, geopolitics included, went on holiday with us for Memorial Day and hasn't returned," said John Kilduff, founding partner at New York energy hedge fund Again Capital. After oils worst week for 2019, those long the market will be hoping for a bullish overdose that could bring WTI back above the key $60 per barrel support and Brent solidly above $70. "Oil prices may have already peaked, and we may have seen the start of a new downward trend, judging by the behaviour of price action over the past month or so," said Fawad Razaqzada, analyst at FOREX.com. "As things stand, oils path of least resistance is clearly to the downside, but that could change if and when it forms a higher high or creates a reversal pattern at lower levels first." Story continues With Memorial Day flagging off the annual U.S. driving spectacle, all eyes will be on gasoline stats hereon, to see if fuel consumption keeps up with the American Automobile Association's lofty expectations for the start of summer road travel. Despite U.S. pump prices of gasoline closing in on $3 a gallon in some regions, Americans have hardly cut back on driving, AAA says. It forecasts that a record 37.6 million of them took to the road this Memorial Day, although the absolute number traveling by all modes of transport 43 million would only be the second highest since 2000. That's an interesting observation because weekly numbers from the U.S. Energy Information Administration tell a different story. Last week's data, particularly, was hardly inspiring, with the EIA reporting total gasoline inventories up by 3.7 million barrels during the week ended May 17, versus forecasts for a drop of nearly 816,000 barrels. And U.S. refinery runs have been surprisingly muted in the run-up to Memorial Day, staying at just under the key 90%-to-capacity mark. Doing longer-than-expected plant maintenance and processing less crude than anticipated week after week, refinery owners have become a new source of frustration to oil bulls already reeling from stubbornly highly U.S. crude production. WTI lost nearly 7% last week and Brent 5% after an unexpected 5 million-barrel build in U.S. crude stockpiles for a second week in a row. The EIA's dataset for this week will be on Thursday while the American Petroleum Institute's routine snapshot on what the EIA numbers could be will run Wednesday. Both are delayed by by a day due to the Memorial Day holiday. Related Articles Gold Dips as Fair-Weather Investors Opt for Dollar Rising costs drive down Canadian farm income 21% Oil Prices Mixed Amid Conflicting Worries over Trade War, Supply Outlook Investing.com - Oil prices were mixed on Tuesday in Asia as traders weighed the latest development in the trade war between the U.S. and China and continued support from OPECs supply cut. U.S. Crude Oil WTI Futures rose 0.9% to $59.13 by 1:20 AM ET (05:20 GMT). There was no settlement on Monday because of a public holiday in the U.S. International Brent Oil Futures were down 0.1% to $68.73. During his visit to Japan this week, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that the U.S. and China are still far from reaching a trade deal. I think they probably wish they made the deal that they had on the table before they tried to renegotiate it, Trump said Monday at a joint press conference in Tokyo. They would like to make a deal. Were not ready to make a deal. Developments in the ongoing trade dispute between the two sides are closely watched by oil traders, as growing tension between the world's two largest oil consumers could have a potential huge impact on oil demand. Trump also reaffirmed that hes not pursuing regime change in Iran, easing concerns that oil flows in the Persian Gulf will be disrupted. Meanwhile, oil prices remained supported by the supply cuts led by producer club OPEC since the start of the year. OPEC and some allies including Russia are due to meet next month to discuss output policy going forward. Related Articles Gold Prices Edges Down Despite Intensifying Trade Tension Brent oil firms above $70 as OPEC cuts and sanctions outweigh economic concerns Brent Oil's Rebound Fizzles as Trump Not Ready for Trade Deal (Updates with comment from Pakistani foreign minister) By Alasdair Pal NEW DELHI, May 27 (Reuters) - India will not invite Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to the swearing-in of his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, two Indian government sources said, suggesting any early warming in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours is unlikely. Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan have fought three wars since their independence from Britain in 1947, and came close to a fourth in February after a suicide bomb attack by a Pakistan-based militant group killed at least 40 Indian police in the contested Kashmir region. Modi begins his second term as prime minister on Thursday after a convincing election victory which political analysts say was helped by his handling of that tension with Pakistan. The Indian government said in a statement on Monday the leaders of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan - all members, with India, of the little-known Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) - had been invited to the swearing-in. "This is in line with government's focus on its 'Neighbourhood First' policy," a government spokesman said. The leaders of Kyrgyzstan and Mauritius have also been invited. But two sources in Indian's foreign ministry said Pakistan will not be on the list, without providing further information. Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi suggested the reason was India's internal politics, after Modi had made "Pakistan bashing" the central theme of his election campaign. "To expect that he will get rid of his narrative and invite the entire opposition to criticise him, it was not possible," Qureshi told Pakistan's Geo TV channel late on Monday. In 2014, when Modi was sworn in for his first term, leaders from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), that includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, were invited. Story continues Pakistan's then-prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, attended then, to the anger of some of Modi's Hindu-nationalist allies. The February bombing in the Kashmir region led to the most serious clashes between the countries in years. India launched an air strike on a suspected militant camp on the Pakistani side of the border. Khan said Pakistan's air force responded with strikes, to the alarm of world powers. An Indian aircraft was shot down and Pakistani forces captured the pilot but sent him home within days. Modi played up national security in his campaign for a seven-phase general election over April and May, which he won with an increased majority. Khan called Modi on Sunday to congratulate him shortly after results were announced. Modi could meet Khan at a Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan next month, that both leaders may attend. (Reporting by Alasdair Pal; Additional reporting by Syed Hassan Raza in KARACHI; Editing by Hugh Lawson, Robert Birsel) LIMA (Reuters) - The presidents of Peru, Colombia, Ecuador and Bolivia criticized a recent decision by the organisation that manages internet protocol to grant global retailer Amazon Inc the rights to the .amazon domain. Amazon Inc has been seeking the exclusive rights to the .amazon domain name since 2012. But Amazon basin countries - including Peru, Colombia, Ecuador and Bolivia - have argued it refers to their geographic region and should not be the monopoly of one company. The four leaders - Peru's Martin Vizcarra, Colombia's Ivan Duque, Ecuador's Lenin Moreno and Bolivia's Evo Morales - vowed to join forces to protect their countries from what they described as inadequate governance of the internet. Last week, the global Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), which oversees internet addresses, said it decided to proceed with the designation requested by Amazon Inc pending a 30-day period of public comment. The decision sets "a grave precedent by prioritising private commercial interests above the considerations of state public policies, the rights on indigenous people and the preservation of the Amazon," Vizcarra, Duque, Moreno and Morales said in a joint statement on Sunday after a gathering in Lima of the Andean Community regional bloc. They added that Latin American and Caribbean countries agreed in 2013 to reject any attempt to appropriate the Amazon name or any other name that refers to geography, history, culture or nature without the consent of countries in the region. Brazil, home to the largest swath of the Amazon forest, has also lamented ICANN's decision. Amazon.com did not immediately respond to requests for comment outside regular working hours. (Reporting By Mitra Taj; Editing by Susan Thomas) SAN MATEO, Calif., May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Plus Products Inc. (CSE:PLUS) (PLPRF) (the Company or PLUS), one of Californias top edibles brand and manufacturer by market share according to BDS Analytics, today announced its expansion into the Nevada market, its first market outside of California. PLUS has entered into a definitive agreement to partner with TapRoot Holdings Inc. (Taproot) , a vertically integrated cannabis company operating cultivation and manufacturing facilities in Las Vegas, Nevada. PLUS expands with a dominant product portfolio: PLUS is the #1 cannabis gummies brand in California with 25% market share in 2019 YTD, according to BDS Analytics. PLUS will market its top selling gummies and recently launched low-dose mints in Nevada dispensaries this summer. PLUS plans to replicate its success in California, selling over 1 million units in 2018 with the #1 and #2 top selling cannabis products among over 20,000 products (according to BDS Analytics and Headset Inc.). Nevada is a key market for building an internationally recognized brand: Nevada surpassed retail sales expectations in its first year of recreational sales, and sales are expected to surpass $700 million in 2020 (according Arcview Market Research and BDS Analytics). With over 45 million visitors a year from all over the world, Nevada is a key market to building an internationally recognized brand. As in California, edible products have continued to increase in popularity, growing from 14.5% of recreational sales beginning in Q3 2017 to 18% today. PLUS will lead manufacturing operations to maintain quality and consistency: PLUS believes that TapRoot has the facilities available for PLUS to easily and quickly deploy its machinery, ingredients, and people to ensure that the product remains consistent both in California and Nevada. As PLUS expands into jurisdictions outside of California, it will serve as the manufacturing operations partner to ensure quality and consistency across markets. Story continues As we look to expand beyond California, we remain committed to producing a consistent product in all jurisdictions, said Jake Heimark, co-founder and CEO of PLUS. We want the PLUS customer to have the same experience with our products whether they buy it in LA or in Las Vegas. Partnering with the TapRoot team will let us realize that goal, and we are confident they are the right team to spearhead our expansion in Nevada. TapRoot is an ideal partner with a high-quality cannabis oil supply: PLUS believes it can leverage TapRoots extraction capabilities as a part of a supply agreement and TapRoot will share in the economics of the deal through a revenue sharing model. In addition to TapRoots extraction capabilities, it has also received 7 of the 61 newly issued retail licenses in December 2018. Led by CEO, Shane Terry, TapRoot has operational expertise in the market and PLUS believes that TapRoot will be a strong partner who believes in producing premium branded products that will redefine the future of cannabis, in line with the PLUS ethos of producing quality products that make cannabis safe and approachable. Shane and his team are impressive operators with a deep understanding of the Nevada market, said Nathan Yagoda, VP of Strategy at PLUS. This deal structure allows PLUS to rapidly deploy into new markets and focus on building our brand and gaining market share. About Plus Products PLUS creates safe low dose and delicious cannabis food products that enhance the everyday. PLUSs mission is to make cannabis safe and approachable use nature to bring balance to peoples lives - that starts with high-quality, precisely dosed products that deliver consistent experiences. The gummies PLUSs food products, which include gummies and mints in a variety of delectable flavors, are manufactured at PLUSs own factory in Adelanto, CA, where dosage is tested twice internally and then tested twice again by an independent lab. PLUS is headquartered in San Mateo, CA with 80 employees. About TapRoot TapRoot is a vertically integrated cannabis company operating cultivation and manufacturing facilities in Las Vegas, Nevada and manufacturer of the best-selling vape brand in 2018, Roots, according to LeafLink, among over 700 competitors. Founded by a powerful network of industry leaders and innovators guided by a bold vision and creative culture, TapRoot is focused on the production of premium branded products that will redefine the future of cannabis as a pillar of a modern, integrated lifestyle. For further information contact: Investors: Jessica Bornn Director of Investor Relations ir@plusproducts.com Tel +1 650.223.5478 Media: Maggie Squires Moxie Communications Group plus@moxiegrouppr.com The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains statements and information that, to the extent that they are not historical fact, constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, but which may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. In particular, there can be no assurance or guarantee that recreational sales in Nevada will surpass $700 million in 2020. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking information. Further, any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company's management to predict all of such factors and to assess in advance the impact of each such factor on the Company's business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking information to reflect information, events, results, circumstances or otherwise after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law including securities laws. Lietuvos Energija, UAB, (hereinafter the Company) identification code 301844044, registered office placed at Zveju str. 14, Vilnius, Republic of Lithuania. The total nominal value of issued bonds 600 000 000 EUR; ISIN codes XS1646530565; XS1853999313. Pursuant to the decisions of the Managing Board of the Company and the Managing Board of the Companys subsidiary Lietuvos energija renewables, UAB (hereinafter the Renewables) dated 23 April 2019, the share sale-purchase agreement regarding 100% of the shares and shareholder claim rights of Pomerania Invall Sp. z o. o., acquired from the Spanish wind farm project company IGE (owned by environmental impact fund SI Capital), was concluded by the Renewables on 27 May 2019. Currently, Pomerania Invall Sp. z o. o. is developing a wind farm project in Poland. The planned capacity to be installed is 94 megawatts (MW). The construction works should start in the second quarter of 2019, whereas the launch of the parks commercial activity is expected in 2021. Last November, Pomerania wind farm project participated in Polands auction for renewable energy projects organised by Polish Energy Regulatory Office and won a 15-year guaranteed tariff of PLN 214.98 MWh (approx. EUR 50 MWh). The Company will invest EUR 127 million into the Pomerania wind farm project. On 28 May 2019, the Company signed an agreement with the Renewables regarding a loan of EUR 44 million, granted to the Renewables to finance further investments into renewable energy projects development and implement the Pomerania Invall Sp. z o. o. share sale-purchase agreement. Poland is one of the key markets for Lietuvos Energija group, which is planning an active international development of its green generation activities. The acquisitions concluded on the basis of this strategy allows the Company to expand and diversify its operations, at the same time increasing the market value of Lietuvos Energija group and ensuring a stable return for the Lithuanian State through competitive activities, developed in foreign markets. Arturas Ketlerius, Head of Public Relations, mob. +370 620 76076, email. arturas.ketlerius@le.lt Pratteln, Switzerland, May 28, 2019 - Santhera Pharmaceuticals (SANN.SW) announces that a large majority of shareholders approved all proposals by the Board of Directors at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held today. Participating shareholders represented a total of 4`109`097 shares or 36.8% of the share capital. "I am very pleased about the consent of Santhera`s shareholders at today`s AGM," said Elmar Schnee, Chairman of the Board of Directors. "The Company has successfully expanded its clinical stage product pipeline with focus on neuromuscular and pulmonary diseases. Key value inflection points are expected next year with Puldysa (idebenone) and vamorolone, both development products for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. I take today`s votes of our shareholders as a clear sign of their confidence in our strategy and we thank them for their continued support." Approval of the 2018 Annual Report, results appropriation and allocation of reserves The shareholders endorsed the Annual Report, the annual financial statements and the consolidated financial statements for 2018, the appropriation of the net result to new account as well as the allocation of reserves from capital contributions to free reserves. Furthermore, the shareholders granted discharge to the members of the Board of Directors and Executive Management for the financial year 2018. Consent to capital structure supports financial and strategic flexibility In two separate votes, the shareholders approved the increase of conditional capital from CHF 930`000 to CHF 2`500`000 (22% of share capital) and the creation of authorized capital of CHF 3`000`000 (27% of share capital). With their consent, the shareholders support the financial flexibility of the Company in view of its growth plans. Opting-out clause cancelled in Articles of Incorporation After the shareholders voted in favor of abandoning the current opting-out provision, Santhera reintroduces the statutory threshold of 33 1/3 % of shares held of the Company which, if exceeded, triggers the obligation of an offer to acquire all listed equity securities of the company. Story continues Re-election of members of the Board of Directors Shareholders re-elected Elmar Schnee, Martin Gertsch, Philipp Gutzwiller, Patrick Vink and Thomas Meier as members of the Board of Directors, each for a term of one year. In addition, shareholders re-elected Elmar Schnee as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Furthermore, the shareholders confirmed Elmar Schnee and Patrick Vink as members of the Compensation Committee. Compensation Report and remuneration for Board and Executive Management approved In a consultative vote, the shareholders endorsed the Compensation Report 2018. In separate binding votes, Santhera`s shareholders agreed to the compensation for members of the Board of Directors (maximum total amount of fixed covering the period from the 2019 AGM to the 2020 AGM) and for the members of the Executive Management (maximum total amount of fixed compensation 2020 and variable compensation 2018). AGM documents The invitation with proposals and explanations on the agenda items and the CEO presentation are available on the Company`s website at www.santhera.com/investors-and-media/investor-toolbox/shareholder-meetings. From the end of next week, the minutes of the Annual General Meeting 2019 will also be available. About Santhera Santhera Pharmaceuticals (SIX: SANN) is a Swiss specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative medicines for rare and other diseases with high unmet medical needs. The portfolio comprises clinical stage and marketed treatments for neuro-ophthalmologic, neuromuscular and pulmonary diseases. Santhera`s Raxone (idebenone) is authorized in the European Union, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Israel and Serbia for the treatment of Leber`s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) and is currently commercialized in more than 20 countries. For further information, please visit www.santhera.com. Raxone and Puldysa are trademarks of Santhera Pharmaceuticals. For further information please contact: public-relations@santhera.com or Eva Kalias, Head External Communications Phone: +41 79 875 27 80 eva.kalias@santhera.com For Investors: investor-relations@santhera.com or Christoph Rentsch, Chief Financial Officer Hans Vitzthum, LifeSci Advisors Europe: +41 61 906 89 65 US: +1 212 915 2568 christoph.rentsch@santhera.com hans@lifesciadvisors.com Disclaimer / Forward-looking statements This communication does not constitute an offer or invitation to subscribe for or purchase any securities of Santhera Pharmaceuticals Holding AG. This publication may contain certain forward-looking statements concerning the Company and its business. Such statements involve certain risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Readers should therefore not place undue reliance on these statements, particularly not in connection with any contract or investment decision. The Company disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements. # # # News Release AGM 2019 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: Santhera Pharmaceuticals Holding AG via GlobeNewswire HUG#2245342 The operator of an alleged pyramid scheme involving a cryptocurrency has been sued by the SEC for duping investors. | Source: Shutterstock By CCN: On Thursday, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed a civil injunctive action against the operator of an alleged pyramid scheme that raised $26 million from investors. The defendant in the case is Daniel Pacheco, 45, a resident of San Clemente, California who has been charged by the SEC with selling unregistered securities as well as operating a multimillion-dollar cryptocurrency pyramid scheme. E-commerce lessons and redeemable crypto points Between Jan. 2017 and Mar. 2018, Pacheco sold unregistered securities through the California-based companies he controls, IPro Solutions LLC and IPro Network LLC, the SEC stated in the press release. Pacheco raised over $26.5 million from US investors through the sale of IPro Packages that consisted of e-commerce lessons on how to make profits with an online store as well as providing its customers with a recruitment-based compensation plan and the ability to convert points into IPros own cryptocurrency, Pro Currency. IPro members could gain crypto-redeemable points either as a rebate for package purchases or by recruiting others to IPro. fomo3d ponzi scheme exit scam The investment scheme allegedly has all the features and trappings of a multi-level pyramid sham. | Source: Shutterstock Pacheco told IPro investors that his company would create an ecosystem where Pro Currency would be used for e-commerce transactions, which would provide a value for the cryptocurrency in the long term. Read the full story on CCN.com. The States Where Natural Disasters Strike Most Often It's a question raised by Americans thinking about retiring or relocating: Where can I go where I won't have to worry about disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes or wildfires? Here's an answer: Not any of the states on this list. Though no place is completely safe, these states get hit by nature more than others. They're the ones where presidents have declared the most major disasters. We've looked at Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) records that go back 66 years and were current as of late May 2019. If you live in one of these states, make sure you have enough insurance and good emergency savings, just in case. 25. (tie) Nebraska Dullatum Hanrud / Shutterstock Nebraska deals with catastrophic flooding nearly every year. Major disasters since 1953: 65 Its central U.S. location means Nebraska endures severe weather coming from all directions, and during every season. Disasters have been declared in the Cornhusker State due to winter snow and ice storms, spring tornadoes, summer fires, and flooding virtually any time of year. A major flood on the Missouri River in 2011 swamped Nebraska's Fort Calhoun nuclear plant and contributed to knocking it out of service for more than two and a half years. But there was never any radioactivity danger, officials said. 25. (tie) South Dakota Rich Koele / Shutterstock A storm approaches Mount Rushmore. Major disasters since 1953: 65 The Mount Rushmore State can be a stew of severe storms, flooding, blizzards and fires. A December 2017 fire burned 84 square miles, making it the third-largest to ever hit South Dakota's Black Hills region. Investigators determined that the Legion Lake Fire in Custer State Park started when a windstorm blew down a tree, which hit a power line. Another disaster was declared over a 2018 fire that ravaged 560 acres near Hot Springs, South Dakota. Authorities think the Vineyard Fire was started by a teenager playing with a flare gun. 22. (tie) Georgia SFpAerial / Shutterstock High winds from Hurricane Irma knocked down trees in Atlanta. Major disasters since 1953: 67 Georgia is far enough south and close enough to the coast that it's frequently battered by hurricanes, or what's left of them. Story continues In 2017, winds left over from Hurricane Irma swept through the state, causing widespread power outages and killing three people. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina spawned 18 tornadoes in Georgia. One person died. But the state isn't too far south for snow. Remember the 2014 Snowpocalypse in Atlanta? The highways got so jammed that thousands of people either abandoned their cars or slept in them overnight. 22. (tie) Iowa Justin C. Hilts / Shutterstock A tree fell on this house in Fort Dodge, Iowa, during a severe storm in 2017. Major disasters since 1953: 67 Iowa is another state that sees more than its share of floods, including one in 2008 that pushed the Cedar River in Cedar Rapids to its highest level on record. Floodwaters covered more than 10 square miles and displaced 10,000 people. The National Weather Service says Iowa also averages 46 tornadoes per year, though 2017 was one of the busier years, with 55 twisters. Other storms tear through the Hawkeye State with combinations of high straight-line winds, hail, ice and snow. A Halloween blizzard in 1991 destroyed up to $5 million worth of corn still in the fields. 22. (tie) Virginia Kim Reinick / Shutterstock Boats in Norfolk were left damaged when Hurricane Irene whipped Virginia in 2011. Major disasters since 1953: 67 Virginia's got mountains, beaches and a lot of woods in between and you can bet that it gets a wide variety of weather, too. Presidents have issued disaster declarations over floods, fires, blizzards, droughts and more than a dozen hurricanes, including 2011's Hurricane Irene that wrecked boats near the coast. But one of the state's more unusual and powerful natural disasters was a 2011 earthquake centered northwest of Richmond. Across the Potomac in Washington, D.C., the Washington Monument was closed for three years because of damage from the 5.8-magnitude quake. 19. (tie) Missouri Gino Santa Maria / Shutterstock Tornadoes are just one common natural threat in Missouri. Major disasters since 1953: 70 Tornadoes, flooding, ice storms, snowstorms, fires, drought they've all shown up in the Show-Me State. Missouri's location smack in the center of the country means it gets practically every kind of weather. One of the state's worst disasters on record was the Mississippi River Great Flood of 1993. Floodwaters swamped parts of St. Louis and climbed halfway up the grand staircase leading to the iconic Gateway Arch. Floods can occur practically anywhere in the U.S., and here's an important reminder: They're one of the hazards not covered by standard home insurance, so you need government flood insurance to cover flood risks. 19. (tie) Tennessee Carolyn Franks / Shutterstock This motel was destroyed by the Great Smoky Mountains fire of 2016. Major disasters since 1953: 70 Tennessee is called the Volunteer State and that spirit of volunteerism is most appreciated after the disastrous weather that often whips the state. Severe storms accompanied by tornadoes, flooding and even ice have often reached disaster status in Tennessee. Major wildfires have been rarer, though they've been a big source of trouble some years. In 2016, there were five separate disaster declarations over fires. Late that year, a fire in Great Smoky Mountains National Park killed at least 14 people and threatened Dolly Parton's Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge. 19. (tie) West Virginia Malachi Jacobs / Shutterstock Crews had to use heavy equipment to reopen a West Virginia highway closed by a flashflood and mudslide in 2015. Major disasters since 1953: 70 Flooding and mudslides can be catastrophic in the Mountain State, particularly when storms dump rain in the hills and send water flowing into the populated valleys. Epic floods in June 2016 killed more than two dozen people after as much as a foot of rain fell on parts of West Virginia in a matter of hours. While floods and storms are the most common disasters in West Virginia, the state also has dealt with severe snows, fires and droughts, as well as remnants of a couple of hurricanes moving north. 17. (tie) Arkansas Reed Means / Shutterstock Floods often take a toll on Arkansas. Major disasters since 1953: 71 Though it's inland, Arkansas is no stranger to hurricanes. They occasionally sweep up from the Gulf of Mexico and cause various kinds of trouble in the state that gave us Walmart and President Bill Clinton. In 2008, disasters were declared in Arkansas due to flooding and damage brought by Hurricane Gustav and Tropical Storm Ike. The state also experienced some flooding and tornadoes from Hurricane Harvey in 2017. But more typical Arkansas disasters include severe thunder-and-lightning storms, tornadoes, major ice storms, and floods from heavy rain. 17. (tie) Montana William T Smith / Shutterstock Fires are the most frequent source of disaster declarations in Montana, particularly during summer. Major disasters since 1953: 71 Fires have been the cause of more than half the disasters declared in this woodsy and mountainous state. A record 2,134 square miles burned in Montana in 2017. But what's still regarded as the worst natural catastrophe in the state's history was a 1964 flood on the Blackfeet Indian reservation. At least 30 people died in the flooding, caused by torrential rains. An area spanning nearly 30,000 square miles roughly 20% of this massive state was inundated, according to the Montana Historical Society. 16. Kansas Minerva Studio / Shutterstock Kansas tornadoes aren't just something out of The Wizard of Oz. Major disasters since 1953: 72 Violent weather in Kansas isn't just the stuff of The Wizard of Oz. Over the decades, the Sunflower State has been hit by dozens of disasters, typically severe storms combining tornadoes with heavy rain and flooding. One of the worst Kansas twisters in history struck the suburbs around Wichita in April 1991. Seventeen people died in the tornado, which was a half-mile wide, had winds that topped 260 mph, and did $300 million in damage. FEMA says other Kansas catastrophes have included wildfires, ice storms and severe snowstorms. If you live in one of these disaster-ridden states and don't have an emegency fund, you'll want to start saving ASAP. 15. Arizona Krista Kennell / Shutterstock Hot, dry conditions make fires a persistent threat in Arizona. Major disasters since 1953: 73 They don't call it "Aridzona" for nothing. America's 48th state is known for being hot and dry which is the perfect combination for fires. The state was scorched by more than 2,300 during 2017 alone. More than half of Arizona's declared disasters have involved fires. The largest ever was the Wallow fire in 2011 that consumed more than 816 square miles in the state, an area more than half the size of Rhode Island. The state does get rain sometimes too much of it. Fourteen Arizona floods have reached the level of a disaster in recent decades. 13. (tie) Nevada Neil Lockhart / Shutterstock Nevada's dry weather means wildfires are a frequent problem. Major disasters since 1953: 74 Things can get very hot in Nevada and we're not talking about summertime temperatures or Las Vegas strippers. Devastating wildfires have been the cause of well over half the state's disaster declarations. Officials said the 2017 fire season was the worst in over 10 years and torched more than 1.3 million acres. Nevada also has been battered by floods, snowstorms, drought and earthquakes. Twin quakes in 1954 had magnitudes of 7.3 and 7.1, according to the Online Nevada Encyclopedia, and damaged not only roads but also the Nevada Capitol building in Carson City. Like floods, earthquakes are excluded by standard home insurance. Homeowners need special coverage for quake risks. 13. (tie) Mississippi Andrew Ketchum / Shutterstock Hurricane Katrina brought down this bridge in Biloxi, Mississippi. Major disasters since 1953: 74 This state on the Gulf of Mexico has been pummeled by no fewer than 17 hurricanes over the last 65 years. The worst was 1969's Hurricane Camille, a rare Category 5 similar to Hurricane Andrew, the one that tore up the Miami area in 1992. Camille's more than 200 mph winds were blamed for 141 deaths along the Mississippi coast and over $1.4 billion in total damage. At least 30 people were killed celebrating the storm in "hurricane parties" near the shore. Other Mississippi disaster declarations have involved severe storms, tornadoes, floods, and a freak southern ice storm in December 1998. 12. Kentucky Alexey Stiop / Shutterstock Eastern Kentucky has seen damage from floods again and again and again. Major disasters since 1953: 77 Like Kentucky Derby fans who go to the betting windows year after year but never win any money, some areas of the Bluegrass State are terribly unlucky. The New York Times recently reported that eastern Kentucky is one of the regions of the U.S. most often struck by disasters. The community of Grayson has been hit by costly storms and flooding nine times in the last 16 years! FEMA says Kentucky's most disaster-prone month happens to be Derby month, May. The state has seen May floods, tornadoes, mudslides, landslides and rockslides. Want more MoneyWise? Sign up for our newsletter. 11. Louisiana Pattie Steib / Shutterstock Louisiana faced a long recovery from Hurricane Katrina. Major disasters since 1953: 79 Since 2005, disaster in Louisiana has meant one word: Katrina. The state is still recovering from the costliest and one of the deadliest hurricanes the U.S. has ever seen. It slammed into Louisiana with 140 mph winds and a storm surge of up to 30 feet. The horrific toll inflicted on the state included nearly 1,600 deaths and $25.9 billion in insured losses, according to FEMA. Because of Louisiana's location on the Gulf Coast, hurricanes have become an unfortunate habit. Katrina is just one of 26 that have given the state disastrous poundings over the decades. 10. Colorado Gary K Gray / Shutterstock Colorado's terrain and vegetation make wildfires a regular threat. Major disasters since 1953: 83 Colorado is another western state where fires are a major and regular threat. According to property inspection firm HIE, Colorado is a magnet for fires because of its dry climate, thick vegetation, and mountain peaks that are like lightning rods. The 2002 Hayman fire in Pike National Forest is regarded as the worst wildfire Colorado has ever seen. It scorched over 137,000 acres, burned 133 homes and killed six people, including five firefighters. Other Colorado disasters have included floods, droughts and a pair of December blizzards in 2006 that cost the federal government nearly $10 million in disaster assistance. Denver was shut down by 2 1/2 feet of snow. 8. (tie) New Mexico Martha Marks / Shutterstock New Mexico's fire season stretches on for months. Major disasters since 1953: 86 In some states, hurricane season is a thing. In others, spring is thought of as flood season. In New Mexico, there's a fire season, which tends to start in May or June and last until fall. More than half the time a disaster is declared in New Mexico, it's because of a forest or brush fire. The worst ever was the Whitewater-Baldy fire in 2012, which burned an estimated 465 square miles about double the size of Chicago! New Mexico has seen not only the extremely dry conditions that lead to fires but also monsoon-style rains that have caused flooding and mudslides. 8. (tie) Oregon Tony Craddock / Shutterstock Tsunamis are a hazard along the Oregon coast. Major disasters since 1953: 86 The Great Northwest is a land of natural beauty and natural threats. Oregonians have had to deal with destructive fires, floods, mudslides, snowstorms, drought, earthquakes and even a tsunami. A 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan sent shockwaves across the Pacific to the Oregon coast, where high waves damaged docks and left boats stacked on top of one another. Several boats sank or were washed out to sea. The Oregonian newspaper in Portland reported that two men were hurt when they were swept off a beach, and one man may have died. Federal disaster assistance for tsunami victims totaled $5.6 million. 7. Alabama Terry Underwood Evans / Shutterstock This gas station was mangled in the tornadoes that struck Alabama during April 2011. Major disasters since 1953: 87 Thanks to its location on the Gulf Coast, Alabama has found itself in the bullseye of catastrophic hurricanes far too many times. Nineteen have led to Alabama disaster declarations, including several that have become household names: Katrina, Irma, Camille. But none of those is considered the worst calamity to ever hit the state. That distinction goes to an outbreak of 62 tornadoes that struck Alabama over four days in April 2011. The most powerful cut a 25-mile path with 210 mph winds. Nearly 240 people were killed, and around 2,000 were injured. 6. New York Leonard Zhukovsky / Shutterstock Hurricane Sandy was the worst storm to hit the New York City area in modern times. Major disasters since 1953: 96 The Empire State stretches from the Great Lakes to the East Coast, with farm country and mountains in between. Given its mix of climates and terrain, New York faces a variety of disaster threats, too. Presidents have declared disasters in New York because of: floods; blizzards; tornadoes; fires; ice storms; a 2002 earthquake that wrecked roads and chimneys; and a dozen hurricanes. Hurricane Sandy in 2012 was the worst storm to hit the New York City area in modern times. It closed stock exchanges, left more than 8 million without power, swamped subway stations and caused an estimated $50 billion in damage. 5. Florida Mia2you / Shutterstock Hurricane Irma took a toll on Miami Beach. Major disasters since 1953: 132 The way Florida dangles there on a map, at the northern edge of the Caribbean, you'd probably assume hurricanes are the top danger for the Sunshine State. But you'd be wrong. Florida has seen more disaster declarations from fires (45) than from hurricanes (41). April and May are the peak fire danger months, coming off the winter dry season. In April 2017, more than 115 wildfires were burning at one time. But that's not to dismiss the threat from hurricanes. Hurricane Irma in 2017 led to mass evacuations, and 2018's Hurricane Michael was a Category 5 storm that devastated the Florida Panhandle and required at least $1.2 billion in federal disaster relief. 4. Washington Peder Digre / Shutterstock Washington state's Mount St. Helens volcano killed 57 people when it erupted in 1980. Major disasters since 1953: 147 Though Washington is known for its lush, green forests, the state does have its dry spells which have resulted in devastating forest fires every year since 2000. The 2017 fire season was called one of the worst on record and destroyed hundreds of thousands of acres. Washington also has endured floods, mudslides, landslides, earthquakes and an infamous volcano eruption. When Mount St. Helens blew its top in 1980, 230 square miles of forest were scorched, 200 homes were destroyed, 900,000 tons of volcanic ash buried roads, an estimated 7,000 large game animals were killed, and 57 people died. 3. Oklahoma Minerva Studio / Shutterstock A powerful 2013 tornado demolished the town of Moore, Oklahoma. Major disasters since 1953: 178 Though it's a midsize state ranked 27th by population and 20th for area Oklahoma is near the top as a disaster zone. Most of it lies within the central U.S. "Tornado Alley," so the state is plagued by twisters. One of the worst was the Moore tornado in 2013, which killed 24 people and caused an estimated $2 billion in damage with 210 mph winds. Oklahoma also endures wildfires, floods and severe winter storms. Nine ice storms have been bad enough to bring about presidential disaster declarations. 2. Texas michelmond / Shutterstock Hurricane Harvey put the Houston area under water. Major disasters since 1953: 263 The disaster risks in Texas are as big as the state's reputation. The sprawling Lone Star State takes beatings from fires, floods, tornadoes, hail, winter storms and let's not forget hurricanes. FEMA officials have said that 2017's Hurricane Harvey would likely go down as the worst natural disaster Texas has ever seen. The storm dumped more than 4 feet of rain on Houston, leading to historic flooding that sent homeowners rushing out to their rooftops to escape the rising water. Officials said the storm cost 88 lives and $125 billion in damage. 1. California Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock The Northridge earthquake was destructive and expensive. Major disasters since 1953: 305 America's most populous state also is the most disaster-prone, according to FEMA data. California is often associated with earthquakes. The state has seen a dozen disastrous ones over the last 66 years, including the 1994 Northridge quake, the costliest in U.S. history. Fifty-seven people died, and more than $20 billion in damage was done. But a far more frequent threat in California is wildfires, which get more destructive every year. The 2018 fire season is considered the worst in the state's history. More than 8,500 fires burned an area larger than the state of Delaware. More than 100 people were killed and 17,000 homes and 700 business were lost. Taco Bell wants to bring its unique take on Mexican food to India in a major way. The Yum! Brands (NYSE: YUM) chain has signed its largest-ever master franchise agreement to add hundreds of stores in India, and it also plans to enter other markets around the world. Currently, Taco Bell has a small presence in India of only 35 stores. Its new deal with Burman Hospitality Private Limited (BHPL) will bring that number to 600 over the next 10 years. That will create 20,000 jobs in those eateries as well as outside of them thanks to expanded supply chain and vendor needs, according to a press release. The inside of a Taco Bell Taco Bell plans to add 600 restaurants in India. Image source: Taco Bell. What is Taco Bell doing? Yum! Brands is making a huge bet on India. This deal makes the country Taco Bell's second-largest market, and it makes BHPL one of the larger franchisees for the chain by restaurant count. "We see so much opportunity in India, as it is still a largely untapped market for Taco Bell and offers huge potential for the brand," said Taco Bell APAC Managing Director, continuing: We've partnered with Burman Hospitality for the past four years growing our presence in India, and the Master Franchise partnership marks a significant step in our journey. We are excited to bring together BHPL's industry knowledge and our expertise with product innovation and research to continue bringing Taco Bell to consumers across India. Taco Bell isn't limiting its growth to India. The chain also intends to expand across Asia with plans to have five restaurants in Thailand by the the end of the year. The chain also plans to open in Sydney and Melbourne, Australia for the first time. These Australian locations join the chain's existing stores in Brisbane, which it used to gauge interest in its menu in the country. Taco Bell also expects to partner with Restaurant Brands Group to enter New Zealand before the end of 2019. "The incredible response we've seen in India, Southeast Asia and Australia proves to us that these markets are ripe for continued growth," said Taco Bell International President Liz Williams in the press release. "The combination of consumer enthusiasm, a healthy business model and fantastic franchise partners makes now, more than ever, the right time for Taco Bell to expand around the world." Story continues Endless growth? Taco Bell continues to grow in its home market as well; the chain has been using hiring parties to keep up with its employee needs in the U.S., where it has over 7,000 restaurants. The chain has proven popular despite it offering lower-end Mexican food compared to a rival like Chipotle. In many ways, Taco Bell is using the model that has turned Domino's into a global powerhouse: Focus on price, efficiency, and convenience. Few people would rank Taco Bell as gourmet-quality Mexican food. But that hasn't hampered the chain's growth in its home market, and it doesn't seem to be an issue as it spreads around the world. Taco Bell has perfected a model that's based on what its customers want -- even if some would say they shouldn't want it. It's a model that works even though it doesn't seem like it should. More From The Motley Fool Daniel B. Kline has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Chipotle Mexican Grill. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Ahead of the summit, President Trump sounded optimistic that a deal could be reached over the near-term, saying on Monday he expects to get the trade gap with Japan straightened out rapidly, adding that announcements on that could come as soon as August, or shortly after Japans July elections. President Donald Trump tried to set the tone on the first day of his state visit to Japan by firing a shot at Tokyo for what he referred to as a substantial advantage in trade and asked Japanese businesses to invest more in the United States. Japan has had a substantial advantage for many, many years, but thats okay, maybe thats why you like us so much, Trump said during a meeting with Japanese business leaders in Tokyo. Tensions over Potential Auto Tariffs Before Trumps visit to Japan, he laid the groundwork for tense negotiations by repeatedly threatening Japanese carmakers like Toyota with potential auto tariffs. However, earlier this month, Trump softened his tone by postponing a decision on car levies for up to six months and directed U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer to seek trade agreements with Tokyo and Brussels. Trump also made it clear by his actions that he views car imports as a potential threat to U.S. national security. That triggered a terse response from Toyota. In a strongly worded response to Trumps comments, Toyota Motor said Trumps latest move in the administrations international trade war was a major setback for American consumers, shows the companys investments in the U.S. are not welcomed and that contributions from its American employees are not valued. The company further added, Our operations and employees contribute significantly to the American way of life, the U.S. economy and are not a security threat, Toyota said in its statement. Trump Softens Initial Tone While Encouraging Investments After firing a dig at Japan on the first day of his official state visit, President Trump softened his tone while meeting with Japanese business leaders on Saturday in Tokyo. During the meeting Trump recognized Toyota for its investments in the U.S. and called for Japanese businesses to invest more. Story continues If you join in seizing the incredible opportunities now before us in terms of investing to the United States, I think youre going to see tremendous return on your investments, he said. Trade Talks Expected to Go Nowhere U.S. President Trump and Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe are expected to hold a trade summit on Monday, according to Reuters. Going into the meeting, the odds are pretty slim that a deal will be worked out. Japans economy minister, Toshimitsu Motegi, said he did not expect even a partial agreement on trade to be reached. Motegi met with Lighthizer and told reporters that the U.S. and Japan still need to narrow their differences on trade. Trump Remains Optimistic Ahead of the summit, President Trump sounded optimistic that a deal could be reached over the near-term, saying on Monday he expects to get the trade gap with Japan straightened out rapidly, adding that announcements on that could come as soon as August, or shortly after Japans July elections. Trade-wise, I think well be announcing some things, probably in August that will be very good for both countries, Trump said, according to Reuters. Well get the balance of trade, I think, straightened out rapidly. This article was originally posted on FX Empire More From FXEMPIRE: Cyprus PIO: Turkish Cypriot and Turkish Media Review, 19-05-28 Cyprus Press and Information Office: Turkish Cypriot Press Review Directory - Previous Article - Next Article From: The Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office Server at Turkish Cypriot and Turkish Media Review-28.05.19 No. 98/19 Contents [A] Turkish Cypriot Press [01] Turkey's MFA briefs Ambassadors on hydrocarbons [02] Priority to economic development in new "government's" program Support to "two states" in the EU for the Cyprus problem [03] Erdogan and Oktay congratulate Tatar [04] Ozersay: New models for negotiations should be discussed [05] Turkish Cypriot politicians on Kizilyurek's election [06] HP on the collapse of former "coalition government" [B] Turkish Press [02] Tatar speaks again of a "two state solution in Cyprus" [03] Defence Minister denies claims of deadline set by US to reconsider S-400 purchase [04] Istanbul election board announces candidates for June 23 rerun elections [05] Latest polls show opposition's Imamoglu leading in Istanbul election re-run, but pro-government survey shows Yildirim as the winner [06] Arrest warrants out for 100 in FETO probe; Over 1,000 irregular migrants detained in one day [A] Turkish Cypriot Press [01] Turkey's MFA briefs Ambassadors on hydrocarbons According to illegal Bayrak television (28.05.19, http://www.brtk.net/?english posts=turkey-briefs-its-ambassadors-on-hydrocarbons), the Turkish Foreign Ministry has briefed permanent representatives of EU member countries on Ankara's political and legal position in the Eastern Mediterranean and the hydrocarbons issue. Ambassador Cagatay Erciyes, who is the Director General for the Department of Bilateral Political Relations and Maritime Affairs, Aviation and Borders, met with the permanent representatives in Brussels. Speaking during the meeting, Ambassador Erciyes claimed that Turkey's hydrocarbon exploration and drilling activities were based on legitimate rights based on international law. Claiming that previous statements made by the EU regarding Turkey's activities were based on one-sided arguments, Erciyes argued: "The EU can call on Turkey to respect the sovereign rights of one of its members but it cannot force Turkey to accept claims of an EU member country regarding its territorial waters. This is not in accordance with international law". Erciyes further said that the EU could not act as an international court forcing the views of a member country on Turkey. [02] Priority to economic development in new "government's" program Support to "two states" in the EU for the Cyprus problem Under the title "Priority to 'economic development'", Turkish Cypriot newspaper K?br?s(28.05.19) reports that the new "coalition government's" program between the National Unity Party (UBP) and the People's Party (HP) was read yesterday at the "assembly" by self-styled prime minister Ersin Tatar. Addressing the "assembly", Tatar said that they have come into "office" during a "difficult period" and that economic development would be their first priority. Referring to the natural gas issue, Tatar argued that Cyprus possesses a strategic position in the Middle East and the Eastern Mediterranean and added that according to experts, Turkey would be a "very appropriate candidate" to become an energy transition centre in case a permanent solution to the Cyprus problem was found and a broad-based cooperation was reached in the area. "If we do not take the necessary measures against those who try to usurp our rights, the future generations will not forgive us", he claimed adding that his "government" would try to have good relations with "motherland Turkey". According to Tatar, their primary target in the foreign policy would be to make their voice heard internationally and the protection of the Turkish Cypriots' "legitimate rights and interests" in all fields, not only in the Cyprus problem. Referring to the Cyprus problem, he alleged that the fifty-year long negotiating process showed that the federal solution model, which is based on sharing, has been exhausted and that federation was not a "realistic model" under the current circumstances. He reiterated the allegation that the Greek Cypriot side was not ready to share the island's wealth and administration with the Turkish Cypriots. He also claimed that as long as what he called the Greek Cypriot mentality does not change the federal partnership based on sharing did not seem realistic in the near future and that there was no common ground between the sides. He further claimed that new "much more realistic ideas" which could be realizable should come to the table, including different models of partnership based on cooperation on the one hand and on the "existence of two states" in the EU on the other. "Even though a permanent and comprehensive solution to the Cyprus problem could not be found, our government will support the cooperation between the institutions of the two sides in the economy, trade, tourism, human rights and other similar fields", he argued claiming that they would exhibit a positive approach to confidence building measures which did not harm the fundamental positions of the Turkish Cypriot side. Tatar said also that they would exert increased efforts for the lifting of what he called "unjust and inhuman isolation" of the Turkish Cypriots and that they would bring these issues to the attention of the UNSG and the members of the UN Security Council. Tatar noted that they would continue shaping their policies knowing that de facto the presence of UNFICYP on the island was, allegedly, not the element which protects peace between the two sides and preserving the view that UN's peace operation has allegedly become one of the main elements and even a symbol of the status quo. He said that they would intensify their efforts in the direction of turning UNFICYP into a non-military force and of making a park at the place of UNFICYP's camp in occupied Famagusta. Referring to the EU, Tatar said that the so-called "EU coordination centre" was transferred under the self-styled ministry of foreign affairs, something by which the lack of coordination between them would be overcome. Tatar also argued that they would exert efforts to carry their dialogue with the EU at the highest level, to effectively implement the Financial Aid Regulation, to broaden the scope of the Green Line Regulation and to implement the Direct Trade Regulation. (I/Ts.) [03] Erdogan and Oktay congratulate Tatar According to illegal Bayrak television (28.05.19, http://www.brtk.net/?english posts=erdogan-oktay-congratulate-tatar), Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Turkish Vice-President Fuat Oktay have sent letters congratulating "prime minister" Ersin Tatar on setting up the new "TRNC government". "Mr prime minister, I congratulate you personally and on behalf of the Turkish nation on the occasion of the formation of a new government in the TRNC [editor's note: the breakaway regime in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus] under your prime ministry," Erdogan wrote. Noting that the "TRNC" had achieved important progress since its establishment and had become stronger after facing all kinds of difficulties and obstacles, the Turkish President said: "I believe the government formed under your prime ministry will bring the TRNC forward." Stressing that the prosperity of the Turkish Cypriots and the development of the "TRNC" were among their priorities, he said: "we will continue to work together with the TRNC for a more stable and prosperous structure." Erdogan also stressed that the Republic of Turkey, as the motherland and a guarantor power, will continue as it has in the past to support the existence, security and rights of the "TRNC". The Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay in his letter also congratulated Tatar and added: "In addition to our efforts towards finding a just and permanent solution to the Cyprus problem which will safeguard the rights and interests of the Turkish Cypriots, I hope the current cooperation between our two countries for the further development of the TRNC in all fields will continue to grow during your government's term in office. Turkey will continue to provide all kinds of support to raise the prosperity of the Turkish Cypriot people and the TRNC for a brighter future". [04] Ozersay: New models for negotiations should be discussed Turkish Cypriot daily Hakikat (28.05.19) reports that self-styled minister of foreign affairs Kudret Ozersay speaking to Web TV, the papers on-line channel, stated that new models for conducting the negotiations for the solution of the Cyprus problem should be found since, as he claimed, "the Greek Cypriots are not willing to have a federation with the Turkish Cypriots". "We have a second plan and this is to have alternatives", he stated, adding that the Cyprus negotiations should not be continued from the point they were left. He also said that the two sides should come together and must start discussing a partnership based on co-operation, instead of a partnership based on sharing. (CS) [05] Turkish Cypriot politicians on Kizilyurek's election Turkish Cypriot daily "Haberci" (28.05.19) writes that various Turkish Cypriot politicians commented on the election of Niyazi Kizilyurek in the European Parliament. "Deputy" with the National Unity Party (UBP) Oguzan Hasipoglu said that Kizilyurek does not represent the Turkish Cypriots, claiming that the 5,000 Turkish Cypriots, who crossed to the free areas of the Republic of Cyprus to vote are only the 2,5% of the Turkish Cypriots voters. "This is not an important number", he said, adding that is a fake feeling that with the election of a Turkish Cypriot in the EU Parliament the Turkish Cypriots' voice is heard there. The general secretary of the New Cyprus Party Murat Kanatli stated that Kizilyurek's election is very important. Kanatli also expressed his satisfaction that ELAM did not elect any EU Deputy. He further said that the discussion as regards whether Kizilyurek represents the Turkish Cypriots at the EU Parliament or not, has no ground since, as he said, there is no national representation in the EU Parliament. The chairman of the Revival Party (TR. Note: The party of the settlers) Erhan Arikli stated that his party showed no interest as regards Kizilyureks's candidacy. Finally, "Yeni Duzen" (28.05.19) writes that the general secretary of the Communal Democracy Party Cemal Ozyigit, stated that his party has always supported that 2 out of the 6 EU Parliament seats of the Republic of Cyprus belong to the Turkish Cypriots. He said that although Kizilyurek supports federation as a solution of the Cyprus problem, he still represents AKEL and not directly the Turkish Cypriots. "However, I see with satisfaction this representation", he stated. (CS) [06] HP on the collapse of former "coalition government" Turkish Cypriot newspaper Diyalog(28.05.19) reports that Kudret Ozersay, chairman of the People's Party (HP) and self-styled foreign minister of the breakaway regime in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus, has argued that during the former four-party "coalition government" they could not appear trustworthy to Turkey from the economic point of view. In statements to Diyalog TV in a joint interview with the other two "ministers" of his party in the former [and current] "government", Ozersay said that this was the reason why they could not secure flow of money. "As government partner, we could never see a picture giving us confidence from the financial point of view", he noted adding that "the train was derailed". Moreover, in her statements during the same program, Aysegul Baybars, self-styled interior minister, said that the "citizenship law", which was debated a lot publicly, had been ready since October, but there was no response by their "coalition partners". Finally, Tolga Atakan, self-styled minister of public works and transport, noted that he had been thinking of resigning before, because no fund for making roads had been secured during the period of the four-party "coalition government". (I/Ts.) [B] Turkish Press [01] Erdogan: "They are laying the groundwork to turn a struggle based totally on economic interests in East Mediterranean into a security issue and a diplomatic crisis" According to Turkey's Presidency official website (26.01.19, https://www.tccb.gov.tr/en/news/542/105526/-the-issue-that-we-should-most-care-about-during-this-critical-period-is-to-firmly-preserve-our-unity-and-solidarity-), Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, speaking during an iftar in Istanbul, said: "The issue that we, as a nation, should care about most during this critical period is to firmly preserve our unity, solidarity and brotherhood" and added that they will not allow such debates as the Istanbul mayoral election to be turned into tools of sabotage against the Turkish people's unity and solidarity. Erdogan further said: "Those who have not been able to bring Turkey to its knees through terrorist organizations, treacherous gangs and all sorts of traps and threats are now playing games through economy". He went on to say: "Showing as an excuse the steps we take concerning our national security, they seek to undermine our economy with sanction threats. They are laying the groundwork to turn a struggle based totally on economic interests in East Mediterranean into a security issue and a diplomatic crisis. In fact, those who set these traps against us have their own political and economic troubles way graver than the ones inflicted on us. We will inshallah not give these circles, which are ready to drag the world into chaos and turn it into a bloodbath in an attempt to conceal their own situations, the chance they have been looking for." [02] Tatar speaks again of a "two state solution in Cyprus" Turkish daily Star (27.05.19https://www.star.com.tr/dunya/kktc-basbakani-tatar-turkiye-kibris-uzerinden-kusatilmaya-calisiliyor-haber-1457188/) reports that so-called prime minister Ersin Tatar, in an exclusive interview to Dogan news agency (DHA) claimed that "Cyprus is a necessary castle for Turkey". Tatar made the above statement referring to the military agreements signed recently by the "Greek Cypriot administration", as he referred to the Republic of Cyprus, pointing out the condition for Turkey to give up the country in case of a solution in the island. Tatar, went on to point out the "military capabilities provided by the Greek Cypriot administration to the USA at first and then to Israel, France and the UK". Concerning the natural gas crisis in the Middle East, Tatar alleged the following: "Cyprus is an important island for Turkey's security and for the security of the Turkish Cypriots". Recalling Mustafa Kemal Ataturk's words, Tatar claimed that they are watching closely the developments in the Middle East and added that "they would also watch out for Cyprus". Tatar accused also the Greek Cypriot side of trying to turn the Turkish Cypriots into a minority, and argued that it is for this reason that it is trying to be reinforced with military cooperation with foreign powers. He argued that the Greek Cypriot side is trying to have the USA by its side in order, as he claimed, to drive Turkey into the corner and at the end to force Turkey to withdraw from Cyprus and prevent Turkey from making openings to the Mediterranean. "We will never allow this to happen. We will undertake all necessary steps together with the cooperation of Turkey. (). We came to the island in 1571. Our struggle continues since then. There are two states in Cyprus. And we should give way to the path for a two state solution in Cyprus. Whether in the EU or not. We will not be surrender to the Greek Cypriots who want the Turkish Cypriots to be minority", Tatar claimed. (AK) [03] Defence Minister denies claims of deadline set by US to reconsider S-400 purchase According to Turkish daily Sabah (28.05.19, https://www.dailysabah.com/defense/2019/05/28/defense-minister-denies-claims-deadline-set-by-us-to-reconsider-s-400-purchase), Turkey's defence Minister on Monday denied claims the U.S. gave Turkey a deadline to reconsider buying the S-400 air defence missile systems from Russia. Speaking to local Haberturk channel, Hulusi Akar said Turkey has not been given any such deadline. About measures Turkey would take in case of possible sanctions from the U.S. over Ankara's procurement of S-400 missile defence system from Moscow, Akar refused to comment on "assumptions". "We are carrying out activities in a way that will completely fulfil the responsibilities given to us," Akar said, adding that Turkey made full payment for F-35 fighter jets to Washington. () Akar said four F-35 fighter jets have already been delivered to Turkey and their activities are ongoing at the base in the U.S. "Training of our four pilots is underway and hundreds of sergeants got maintenance training and returned [to Turkey]," he said, adding that 37 personnel were recently trained. [04] Istanbul election board announces candidates for June 23 rerun elections According to Turkish daily Hurriyet Daily News (27.05.19, http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/istanbul-election-board-announces-candidates-for-june-23-rerun-polls-143763), the Istanbul provincial election board announced on May 27 the list of candidates who will run for the renewed June 23 elections. Besides the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) candidate Ekrem Imamoglu, who was declared winner of the March 31 elections before it got scrapped, ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) candidate Binali Y?ld?r?m, Felicity (Saadet) Party candidate Necdet Gokc?nar and Vatan Party candidate Mustafa Ilker Yucel, 17 independent candidates will run for the local polls. Ballot slips with the names of these candidates started being printed as of May 27. Processes regarding the ballot boxes will be completed on May 29. Election propaganda and prohibitions will begin on June 13. () [05] Latest polls show opposition's Imamoglu leading in Istanbul election re-run, but pro-government survey shows Yildirim as the winner According to Turkish news portal Turkish Minute (28.05.19, https://www.turkishminute.com/2019/05/27/latest-polls-show-oppositions-imamoglu-leading-in-istanbul-election-re-run/), the latest polls for the re-run of the Istanbul mayoral election indicate that opposition alliance candidate Ekrem Imamoglu is leading the race. According to a pro-government MAK Consulting Firm survey conducted on 11,000 Istanbulites between May 15 and 20, 47% of respondents said they would support Imamoglu, while some 45% favour the ruling party's candidate, Binali Y?ld?r?m. () The poll showed that 49% of participants do not believe there were any irregularities in the March 31 election, while some 43% allege discrepancies. Seventy-two percent of opposition supporters said they would vote for their candidate, whereas 80% of Y?ld?r?m supporters said their preference stemmed from party ties or President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. () The A&G survey revealed that non-voters are a homogenous group; therefore, even if they decide to vote on June 23, their support will not change the result. Also, Imamoglu supporters seem more motivated than Y?ld?r?m voters, according to the poll. The survey indicated that the ruling Justice and Development Party's (AKP) loss of supporters in the March 31 election is not solely related to Kurdish voters and that Kurds in Istanbul, constituting some 12% of the electorate, will continue to be the kingmaker. Meanwhile, Optimar polling company's latest survey said Imamoglu is leading the race by some 4%. [06] Arrest warrants out for 100 in FETO probe; Over 1,000 irregular migrants detained in one day According to Ankara Anatolia news agency (28.05.19, https://www.aa.com.tr/en/turkey/turkey-arrest-warrants-out-for-100-in-feto-probe/1490716), Turkish prosecutors issued arrest warrants for over 100 people across the nation for their suspected links to the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO), the group behind the 2016 defeated coup, judicial sources said on Tuesday. Istanbul prosecutors sought the arrest of 74 suspects -- 32 out of them are on active duty soldiers -- with warrants as part of a FETO probe into the infiltration of the terror group into the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK), according to sources who asked not to be named due to restrictions on speaking to the media. Colonels, lieutenant colonels, and commanders are among the soldiers sought by security sources, the sources said. Separately, prosecutors in southern Adana province issued arrest warrants for 27 soldiers including 20 personnel on active-duty, sources said. Police have conducted raids in 18 provinces to hunt suspects. () Meanwhile, Turkish daily Hurriyet Daily News (28.05.19, http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/over-1-000-irregular-migrants-detained-in-one-day-143777) reports that a total of 1,031 migrants were detained across Turkey on May 28, state-run Anadolu Agency has reported. In the northwestern province of Edirne, which borders Greece and Bulgaria, gendarmerie forces rounded up 693 migrants, said the agency. Separately, gendarmerie forces detained 35 migrants, all of them Iraqi nationals, in the northwestern province of K?rklareli, according to the agency. Moreover, the Turkish Coast Guard intercepted 25 migrants on a rubber boat off the coast of the Aegean province of Ayd?n. Some 13 migrants were also detained in the northwestern Bal?kesir province while they were preparing to sail for Greece. Security forces launched an operation to capture an alleged human smuggler. In addition, police detained 97 irregular migrants in a truck in the Aegean province of Izmir. Police seized two rubber boats and detained three alleged human smugglers. Some 128 migrants were also detained by gendarmerie forces in the eastern province of Van, bordering Iran. In the southern Hatay province, border forces detained 40 migrants who had crossed irregularly from neighbouring Syria. All of the migrants were later referred to provincial migration directorates. Turkey has been the main route for refugees trying to cross to Europe, especially since 2011, the beginning of the Syrian civil war. Some 268,000 migrants were held in Turkey in 2018, according to the Interior Ministry. TURKISH AFFAIRS SECTION (DPs/EH) Cyprus Press and Information Office: Turkish Cypriot Press Review Directory - Previous Article - Next Article Tides Canada launches first customizable Donor Advised Fund to be 100 percent invested for impact Tides Canadas new initiative with the Genus-SVX Impact Investment Counsel advances Impact Investing for Canadians Vancouver, BC, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Tides Canada is launching ImpactDAF, the first customizable Impact Donor Advised Fund (DAF) in Canada to be 100 percent invested for impact. This first-of-a-kind charitable vehicle will make use of the Genus-SVX Impact Investment Counsel platform to create a new way to maximize philanthropy by bringing together charitable giving and impact investing. The ImpactDAF offers a unique opportunity to align and activate investment capital and philanthropy. Typically with a donor advised fund, impact is only derived from grant dollars while the underlying investments often have neutral or negative impacts. By creating an ImpactDAF, positive impacts are created through both the grantmaking dollars and investments. Tides Canadas ImpactDAF will be invested with a customized strategy that aligns with each DAFs mission, and the success of the portfolio will be measured using a methodology aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Joanna Kerr, President and CEO at Tides Canada said: Were excited to launch our new ImpactDAF model today. This ground-breaking philanthropic vehicle will enable more community-led transformation for social, economic, and environmental justice. And, it offers donors a new way to better align their contributions with their values. Tides Canadas ImpactDAF will be invested and managed by the Genus-SVX Impact Investment Counsel, a strategic partnership between Genus Capital and SVX. Adam Spence, Director of SVX said: By combining impact investing and charitable giving, the ImpactDAF allows individuals and institutions to mobilize their philanthropic assets toward 100 percent impact. JP Harrison, President of Genus Capital said: We are thrilled to be chosen by Tides Canada as the Impact Investment Manager for this innovative instrument. This will go a long way in supporting the ambitious goal of the Genus-SVX Impact Investment Counsel to mobilize $100 million in impact investments by 2020. There is a perfect synergy between our organizations and goals, and together were making it easy for Canadians to donate in a way that makes an even greater impact. Story continues The global impact investing market was worth $502 billion in 2018, effectively doubling in size since 2017. In 2017, SVX researched high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) interest in impact investing and found the vast majority of Canadian HNWIs are interested, with 89.8 percent of all those surveyed expressing some degree of interest in impact investing. This ImpactDAF is designed for foundations, philanthropists, financial advisors, families, and individuals that have a minimum $1M balance. For more information, please join the launch webinar on June 20th at 11am PST ( sign up here ) or visit https://tidescanada.org/impactdaf -ENDS- Footnotes: Donor advised fund: A donor advised fund (DAF) is a fund held for charitable giving. DAFs offer a central place for all giving, therefore minimizing administrative costs and burden. Donors can contribute to the fund at any time and receive a tax receiptthen recommend grants to charities over time. Impact investments: Impact investments are investments made in companies, organizations, and funds with the intention to generate social and environmental impact alongside a financial return. About Tides Canada Tides Canada is a leading national charity that enables community-led transformation for social, environmental, and economic justice. Tides Canada provides tools, expertise, and strategy to move from vision to impact. www.tidescanada.org About the Genus-SVX Impact Investment Counsel The Genus-SVX Impact Investment Counsel is a strategic partnership designed to address the challenges faced by foundations, high net worth individuals, charities, endowments and pension funds, in becoming impact investors. The Counsel seeks to make impact investing easy to execute, and to mobilize $100 million in capital toward impact investments by 2020. For more information, visit https://genuscap.com/impact-investment-counsel/ Charlotte Gilmour // Nora Eastwood Yulu PR 604.558.1656 genus@yulupr.com (Adds further details from trial proceedings) By Ben Fenwick NORMAN, Okla., May 28 (Reuters) - Johnson & Johnson's greed led the drugmaker to use deceptive marketing to create an oversupply of painkillers that fueled the U.S. opioid epidemic, the state of Oklahoma alleged at the start of the first trial to result from lawsuits over the drug crisis. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter, who filed the multibillion-dollar case, argued in a state court in the city of Norman that J&J should be forced to pay for helping cause the "worst manmade public health crisis in our state's history." His case is the first to reach trial from around 2,000 lawsuits filed by state and local governments seeking to hold pharmaceutical companies responsible for a drug epidemic the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says led to a record 47,600 opioid-related overdose deaths in 2017. The non-jury trial came after Oklahoma resolved claims against OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma LP in March for $270 million and against Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd on Sunday for $85 million, leaving only J&J as a defendant. Brad Beckworth, a lawyer for the state, told Cleveland County District Judge Thad Balkman that New Brunswick, New Jersey-based J&J, along with Purdue and Teva, used misleading marketing beginning in the 1990s to push doctors to prescribe more opioids. Beckworth said J&J, which sold the painkillers Duragesic and Nucynta, marketed the opioids as "safe and effective for everyday pain" while downplaying their addictive qualities, helping create a drug oversupply. He said J&J was motivated to boost prescriptions not only because it sold opioid painkillers, but because it also grew and imported raw materials opioid manufacturers like Purdue used. "If you have an oversupply, people will die," Beckworth said. J&J lawyer Larry Ottway countered that its products made up a small share of opioids prescribed in Oklahoma and carried U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved labels that warned of the addictive risks. Story continues "You have to examine the details because facts are stubborn things," he said. He also argued Oklahoma was seeking to "stretch" the bounds of a public nuisance statute in order to force it to pay up to $17.5 billion to help the state address the epidemic for the next 30 years. The case is being closely watched by plaintiffs in other opioid lawsuits, particularly the 1,850 cases consolidated before a federal judge in Ohio, who has been pushing for a settlement ahead of an October trial. Some plaintiffs' lawyers have compared the cases to litigation by states against the tobacco industry that led to a $246 billion settlement in 1998. (Reporting by Ben Fenwick in Norman, Oklahoma; Writing by Nate Raymond in Boston; Editing by Scott Malone, Jonathan Oatis and Bill Berkrot) VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Velocity Minerals Ltd. (VLC.V) (Velocity or the Company) announces that it has entered into an option agreement (the Agreement) with Bulgarian partner, Gorubso Kardzhali A.D., (Gorubso) to acquire a 70% interest in the 194-hectare Nadezhda property (the Property), which includes the Makedontsi gold project (Makedontsi or the Project); a geological resource registered on the Bulgarian State balance. Under the terms of the option agreement, Velocity can earn a 70% interest by delivering a mineral resource estimate prepared under National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101). Makedontsi Gold Project The Makedontsi deposit is located in southeast Bulgaria, approximately 10km by road from Gorubsos modern CIL processing plant (Figure 1). The deposit is open for expansion and requires systematic exploration to investigate its full potential and to deliver a mineral resource estimate prepared under NI 43-101. Concurrent with and building upon the Companys Rozino prefeasibility activities, a program of modern integrated exploration is planned in order to assess blind mineralization amenable to open pit mining under a thin post mineralization limestone cover sequence. The resource which is registered with the Ministry of Energy in Bulgaria (Table 1) is based on historical exploration, including approximately 250 drill holes (11,500m) and 5,000m of trenching completed by Gorubso. Table 1: Historical Resources for Makedontsi1, calculated by Gorubso using the Bulgarian classification system. Please review cautionary language below with respect to Historical Resources. Cut-off Grade (g/t gold) Tonnes (Mt) Gold Grade (g/t gold) Contained Gold (ounces gold) Bulgarian Resource Category 0.5 5,954,349 1.0 210,745 C1 + C2 0.5 2,653,814 0.9 84,814 C3 Note 1. Historical resources at Makedontsi were calculated by Gorubso using the Bulgarian classification scheme, based on manual polygonal methods of resource classification. Resources were submitted to and accepted by the Bulgarian government, Dragiev H, 2013 "Mlechino Prospecting License, Geological Report at the Nadezhda Prospect, with Resource and Reserve Recalculations of Au Ores at the Makedontsi, Dangovo and Kalina deposits. Additional work will be required in order to verify historical resources and any potential additional resources and to complete a mineral resource estimate consistent with NI-43-101 standards of disclosure. Story continues The Company cautions that it is not treating the historical resources as current mineral resources and/or mineral reserves. Historical resources are not consistent with the standards of disclosure defined by NI 43-101 and may not necessarily be consistent with CIM best practice with respect to reporting mineral resources and reserves. The historical resources are included because they are considered relevant by the Company as they confirm the presence of significant gold mineralization on the property which has not been fully delineated. The inclusion of historical resource estimations provides information as to the potential size and nature of the immediate exploration targets within the Makedontsi Property. Planned Work Mineralization is outcropping locally, but elsewhere the prospective sediments are covered by a thin veneer of post-mineral limestone estimated to range from 10 to 30m thickness. Consequently, the initial work program will focus on surface geochemistry and gradient array induced polarization (IP) surveys. The mineralization appears to be closely associated with silicification and it is expected that the planned IP geophysical survey will help locate prospective silicified zones if they exist below the limestone cover. Limited historical drilling indicates that locally mineralization does exist below the cover sequence (Figure 2). In tandem with the above work the Company plans to assess the reliability of historical drill results with angled heel-to-toe drilling (approximately 22 drill holes for an expected total of 1,000m). This initial phase will be completed on one drill section through the existing Bulgarian-registered historical resource area. The aim of the drill campaign is to verify mineralization intersected by historical drill holes, infill untested portions of the mineralized body, as well as increased understanding of geometry, continuity of mineralization, and geotechnical and hydrogeological aspects of the deposit. Discovery History at Makedontsi The Makedontsi gold project was initially discovered in 1998 by Velocitys VP Exploration as part of a regional surface geochemical survey (BLEG) undertaken by a subsidiary of Anglo American plc, Minorco SA (Minorco). The discovery was interpreted by Minorco as potentially epithermal gold occurrence hosted by terrigenous sediments in a favorable geologic-structural position similar to the epithermal Au mineralization at Perama Hill Deposit in Northern Greece. As well as regional BLEG sampling, Minorco completed geological mapping, soil geochemistry, rock chip sampling and trenching. A Bulgarian explorer (Gramex OOD) completed additional detailed mapping and drilled a single drill hole in 2001 intersecting 34.80m@0.58g/tAu (incl. 8.80m@1.17g/tAu). Gorubso acquired the project in 2005 and between 2007-2008 and 2012-2014 completed significant exploration including 5,115m of trenching and 252 drill holes for a total of 11,530m, and established a mineral resource estimate within the Bulgarian classification system. Qualified Person The technical content of this release has been approved for disclosure by Stuart A. Mills, BSc, MSc, CGeol, a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 and the Companys Vice President Exploration. Mr. Mills is not independent of the Company. About Velocity Minerals Ltd. Velocity is a gold exploration and development company focused on Bulgaria. The Company envisions staged open pit mining of satellite deposits and processing in a central, currently operating carbon-in-leach plant. The Companys management and board includes mining industry professionals with combined experience spanning Europe, Asia, and the Americas as employees of major mining companies as well as founders and senior executives of junior to mid-tier public companies. The team's experience includes all aspects of mineral exploration, resource definition, feasibility, finance, mine construction and mine operation as well as a track record in managing publicly listed companies. About Bulgaria Bulgaria is a member of NATO (2004) and a member of the European Union (2007). The local currency (BGN) has been tied to the Euro since 1999 (1.956 BGN/EUR). The country is served by modern European infrastructure including an extensive network of paved roads. Bulgaria boasts an exceptionally low corporate tax rate of only 10%. The countrys education system is excellent with good availability of experienced mining professionals in a favourable cost environment. Foreign mining companies are successfully operating in Bulgaria. The countrys mining law was established in 1999 and updated in 2011. Mining royalties are low and compare favourably with more established mining countries. On Behalf of the Board of Directors Keith Henderson President & CEO For further information, please contact: Keith Henderson Phone: +1-604-484-1233 E-mail: info@velocityminerals.com Web: www.velocityminerals.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release includes certain forward-looking statements under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: future exploration and testing carried out on the Nadezhda property; use of funds; and the future business and operations of Velocity. Often, but not always, forward looking statements can be identified by words such as pro forma, plans, expects, may, should, budget, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates, believes, potential or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Forward looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, operating and technical difficulties in connection with mineral exploration and development and mine development activities for the Nadezhda property, including the geological mapping, prospecting and sampling programs for the projects, the fact that the Companys interests in the Nadezhda property is only an option and there is no guarantee that the interest, if earned, will be certain, actual results of exploration activities, including the program, estimation or realization of mineral reserves and mineral resources, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, capital expenditures, the costs and timing of the development of new deposits, the availability of a sufficient supply of water and other materials, requirements for additional capital to fund the Company's business plan, future prices of precious metals, changes in general economic conditions, changes in the financial markets and in the demand and market price for commodities, possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates, possible failures of plants, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, delays in obtaining governmental and regulatory approvals (including of the TSX Venture Exchange), permits or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, hedging practices, currency fluctuations, title disputes or claims limitations on insurance coverage and the timing and possible outcome of pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, risks related to joint venture operations, and risks related to the integration of acquisitions, as well as those factors discussed under the heading. "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual management's discussion and analysis and other filings of the Company with the Canadian Securities Authorities, copies of which can be found under the Company's profile on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking information in this news release or incorporated by reference herein, except as otherwise required by law. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3bf8eaeb-7da5-49ae-b691-31e59fb47a67 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/94228b19-148f-4541-a22f-95d408b601b5 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8ab04f02-70e1-45c2-97bc-c64f19fc084e Tech firms from Stripe to GoCardless are all trying to grab a slice of the same $1.9 trillion industry. Upstart payment firms have attracted big corporate clients and billions of dollars in venture capital money. Last year saw Adyen go public and iZettle get bought by PayPal, fueling speculation over the next big exit. Technology firms from Silicon Valley's Stripe to United Kingdom -based GoCardless are all trying to grab a slice of the same $1.9 trillion industry . Payments, a sector long dominated by cash, has gone digital as a number of start-ups enter the fray looking to make it easier to pay for things online as well as in stores. Upstart payment firms have attracted big corporate clients and billions of dollars in venture capital money. According to Pitchbook, investors pumped $18.5 billion into the sector in 2018 a near-fivefold increase from the previous year. That was a huge amount of money, but spread over a smaller number of investments, with 235 deals being signed last year compared to 258 in 2017. China Ant Financial was the biggest driver of the numbers, Pitchbook says, raising a whopping $14 billion in 2018. "High level the deal count fell a bit in 2018 but (was) still very healthy and I wouldn't read anything into that small decline," said Paul Condra, lead emerging technology analyst at PitchBook. "Companies that can simplify payments for SMBs (small and medium-sized businesses) or focus on the complexity of cross-border payments have received tremendous attention." In the last few months alone, there have been massive deals in the sector: Stripe raised a total of $345 million in its latest investment round at a $22.5 billion valuation. Try-before-you-buy payments firm Klarna recently closed a $100 million internal round. GoCardless got a $75 million cash injection from Alphabet GOOGL and Salesforce CRM . Pitchbook says the sector has attracted about $2 billion so far into 2019 already. Sky-high valuations Story continues Then there's little-known U.K.-based firm Checkout, which raised $200 million at a $2 billion market value, automatically signing it up to Europe's unicorn club unicorns being private tech firms valued at $1 billion or more. Checkout's fundraising came as a particular surprise, as the seven-year-old company had previously been entirely owned by its founder and CEO Guillaume Pousaz. The firm's boss said the reason it steered clear from the private markets for so long was because it wanted to take a "bootstrap" approach to growing the business in other words, relying on the resources it had access to rather than tapping external investment early on. As for Checkout's sky-high valuation, Pousaz said: "We would not have achieved the valuation we achieved if we did not grow fast. I think that is the point that has attracted a good valuation, but if anything it reflects the market value." Speculation has grown as to whether or when one of the payment start-ups will seek an exit strategy, either through an initial public offering or a takeover. Last year saw Adyen debut in Amsterdam , while Sweden's iZettle was snapped up by PayPal for $2.2 billion ahead of a planned IPO. With PayPal PYPL , it didn't take long for the 20-year-old fintech firm to launch a public offering, only to then be acquired and later spun off by eBay EBAY . But companies appear to be staying private for longer, as plenty of capital flows into start-ups. Meanwhile, Japan's SoftBank 9984.T-JP is shaping up the tech investment space with its $100 billion Vision Fund, an investor in an already-listed German payments firm, Wirecard WDI-DE . While Checkout's Pousaz didn't rule out a float, he said it was "too early to speak about an IPO." "We are lucky to have investors that have a very long term view," he said. "We're never going to discard the IPO, it's obviously a route towards another liquidity event." 'Not revolutionary' While payment processors like Adyen and Checkout are "not revolutionary," they execute "extremely well," said Rob Moffat, a partner at London-based venture capital Balderton Capital. In essence, Adyen and Checkout are just payment processing companies, but because they have made accepting payments much simpler for merchants, Moffat said, investors have flocked to them. "I guess we see that continuing," said Moffat. One area he sees payment processors solving a clear pain point is in direct debit payments, recurring transactions withdrawn directly from customers' bank accounts. That's why Balderton backed GoCardless, which handles what it calls the "recurring payments market." That means transactions like subscriptions and installments. WATCH: How Venmo makes money Like Checkout's founder, GoCardless' co-founder and CEO, Hiroki Takeuchi, has said in the past that he doesn't see an IPO as an immediate goal for the company, nor does he think of it as an exit. "For me, an IPO's not really an exit, it's just a milestone," he said in an interview after the firm's most recent round of funding. "We'll cross that bridge when we come to it." "I'm really focused on how we create the best possible company which has the biggest possible impact," Takeuchi added. "Maybe an IPO is part of that journey, but we'll see when we come to it." Stripe, too, has pushed back against the idea of a stock market listing in the immediate term Chief Operating Officer Claire Hughes Johnson told Fortune magazine last year the firm has "no plans" to do so. Klarna CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski, on the other hand, said recently that he actually thinks his company is near a point "where we could seek a stock market listing," although "it's unlikely to be this year." More From CNBC (Bloomberg) -- Volkswagen AG is making changes to its battery-purchasing plan worth about 50 billion euros ($56 billion) over concerns one if its supply deals, with Samsung SDI Co. Ltd., might unravel, according to people familiar with the matter. Samsung initially agreed to deliver batteries for just over 20 gigawatt hours, enough to power 200,000 cars with 100 kilowatt hour packs, before different views on production volume and schedule emerged during detailed negotiations, said the people, who asked not to be identified as the talks are confidential. The impasse cut pledged supplies to less than 5 gigawatt hours, they said. Access to vast amounts of batteries to power a growing number of electric vehicles has emerged as a new battleground for global automakers amid capacity constraints, supply bottlenecks and limited access to raw materials. Producing batteries safe to use in cars is more complex than the technology used for consumer electronic devices like smartphones. VW ultimately needs 300 gigawatt hours of annual battery cell supply and without robust global multi-sourcing contracts this will be impossible, Evercore ISI analyst Arndt Ellinghorst said. Its one thing talking up electric vehicle volume numbers, building the necessary value chain remains a major challenge. VW is spending 30 billion euros on the industrys biggest push into electric vehicles with a new range of purely battery-powered cars to challenge electric-car leader Tesla Inc. The German manufacturers electric ID.3 hatchback will start rolling off assembly lines later this year. Samsung continues to be our battery cell supplier for Europe, VW said in an emailed statement. Samsung declined to comment. Tesla, beset by concerns over demand and its ability to make a profit, last month accused its battery supplier, Panasonic Corp., of being the culprit for tepid production rates of the affordable Model 3. Earlier this month, VW outlined a project to build a domestic battery-cell factory in Germany together with Swedish startup Northvolt AB for almost 1 billion euros with capacity of 10 gigawatt hours. VW plans to take a final decision later this year. Story continues VWs electric rollout in the next ten years translates into battery demand of more than 300 gigawatt hours in Europe and Asia alone, outstripping current market capacities. VW has picked LG Chem Ltd., Samsung and SK Innovation Co. as battery suppliers for Europe along with Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. for China. It later added SK Innovation as partner for North America as well, starting in 2022. The huge investments required to ramp up battery-production capacity have stoked intense rivalry, highlighted by a lawsuit LG Chem filed in the U.S. against SK Innovation over allegedly stealing secrets. SK Innovation has denied acting improperly. (Updates with analyst comment in fourth paragraph.) To contact the reporters on this story: Christoph Rauwald in Frankfurt at crauwald@bloomberg.net;Sohee Kim in Seoul at skim847@bloomberg.net;Oliver Sachgau in Munich at osachgau@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Anthony Palazzo at apalazzo@bloomberg.net, Elisabeth Behrmann, John Bowker For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. By Nandita Bose WASHINGTON, May 28 (Reuters) - Walmart Inc has appointed Suresh Kumar, a former employee of Alphabet Inc-owned Google and Amazon.com Inc, as its new chief technology officer as it tries to fuel an internal tech transformation and boost its e-commerce business. Kumar most recently worked as a vice president and general manager of display, video, app ads and analytics at Google. He will directly report to the retailer's Chief Executive Doug McMillon, Walmart said on Tuesday. "Suresh has a unique understanding of the intersection of technology and retail, including supply chain, and has deep experience in advertising, cloud and machine learning," McMillon said in a release. "He has a track record of working in partnership with business teams to drive results." Kumar's appointment comes as Walmart is undertaking massive investments in its e-commerce business to compete more effectively with Amazon and preparing for a big splash in the world of advertising. Reuters was first to report Walmart's planned meeting with large corporate ad buyers in New York this week. The retailer's e-commerce success has been erratic over the years but sales growth in the past few quarters has shown signs of consistency. In February, Walmart said it expects its e-commerce losses to increase this year, due to ongoing investments, but that it is focused on increasing return customer visits and strengthening its online product assortment. Kumar will replace Jeremy King, who left the retailer in March and was responsible for revamping Walmarts U.S. e-commerce technology platform by making it faster, more competitive and customer-friendly, all of which have been key to the retailers fight against its e-commerce rivals. Prior to Google, Kumar worked at Microsoft Corp and also spent 15 years at rival Amazon.com Inc in various leadership roles, including vice president of technology for retail systems and operations. (Reporting by Nandita Bose in Washington Editing by Tom Brown) CANNES, FRANCE / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / According to Bloomberg, the U.S. House of Representatives on May 24, local time, at 351: Sixty-six votes passed a bill attributable to the annual Defense Policy Act, calling on President Trump not to weaken sanctions against ZTE. It also prohibits U.S. government agencies from using ZTE's manufacturing equipment and technology on national security grounds, as well as cooperation between the U.S. Department of Defense and Chinese suppliers.Domestic manufacturers of wireless communication equipment are also on the banned list.The proposal includes an additional proposal to prohibit the US federal government from purchasing video surveillance equipment supplied by Chinese manufacturers on the grounds of national security. Hikvison, a major domestic video surveillance company, is included in the proposal. In response to this, Hikvison issued a statement today, saying, "The proposal to prohibit the federal government from purchasing video surveillance equipment from Chinese-funded enterprises such as Hikvison is not based on facts and evidence, and the accusations of the sponsors are obviously subjective and biased." Wu Motong, a new generation actress, appeared on the red carpet for the 72nd anniversary of the Cannes Film Festival on May 15, wearing a wax-dyed light blue gradient dress to show off the red carpet, with a touch of girlhood in her fairy air and elegant and poetic dress layers; red headdresses, earrings and fans echoed with red lips, attracting extra eyes; the sleeve label of "mayor" on her arm earned eyeballs to carry the national customs to the end. In an interview with Phoenix other media, she expressed her support for Hikvison, which had recently been blacklisted by the United States: Hikvison is accused of being a commercial company, which sticks to its business responsibilities just like Huawei and ZTE, which also suffer from blacklist treatment. On the red carpet for the 72nd anniversary of the Cannes Film Festival, Wu Motong fulfilled her promise to attend in a batik dress of Danzhai. Under the magnesia lamp of the world, the beauty of Eastern women's gracefulness and Chinese traditional culture was presented, so that more people could understand the infinite charm of Danzhai batik and Chinese national culture. Story continues It is reported that Wu Motong has played Princess Zhaoning in Gujian Qitan II and Wu Shuang in New Xiaoshilang, and has performed well in popular TV dramas such as I am Dulala and The Road to Victory.She is expected to go farther and farther along the road of performing arts, and more actors are expected to join the ranks of bringing national culture to the world stage. 411671879@qq.com SOURCE: WanYu Media View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/546759/Well-known-Actress-Wu-Motong-Expressed-Her-Support-for-Huawei-Hikvision-was-Reported-by-Many-Domestic-Media Investing.com - The Chinese yuan fell, while the U.S. dollar ticked higher on Tuesday in Asia after U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington is not ready to make a deal with China. The U.S. dollar index rose 0.2% to 97.685 by 11:50 PM ET (03:50 GMT). The USD/CNY pair edged up 0.1% to 6.9083. Trump said on Monday that the U.S. is not ready to make a deal with China. I think they probably wish they made the deal that they had on the table before they tried to renegotiate it, Trump said at a joint press conference in Tokyo. They would like to make a deal. Were not ready to make a deal. Trump said American tariffs on Chinese goods could go up very, very substantially, very easily. The President added that he thinks the two sides could eventually reach a great trade deal sometime in the future. At the conference, Trump also said he wanted exports to be put on fair footing in Japan through the removal of trade barriers, putting pressure on Tokyo to reduce the nations large trade surplus with the U.S. The news seemed to have little impact on the yen. The USD/JPY pair last traded at 109.47, down 0.02%. Meanwhile, the EUR/USD pair was down 0.1% to 1.1181. The currency pair rose earlier in the day after the European Union parliamentary elections showed a polarization of the 28-member block. While center-right and center-left blocs are losing their shared majority, surges in the Greens and liberals meant parties committed to strengthening the union held on to two-thirds of seats, official projections showed. There is a polarization of the European parliament which is a kind of representation of the overall European political situation, said Masafumi Yamamoto, chief currency strategist at Mizuho Securities in a Reuters report. That will be broadly negative for the euro. Related Articles Euro bounce proves brief after pro-Europe parties retain majority Forex - Euro Holds Steady after EU Election Results, Pound Ticks Higher Why the Yuan Could Break 7 ... or 6 ... or 8 ELMWOOD The 75th anniversary of one of the turning points of World War II will be marked with many celebrations over the next two weeks. Elmwood residents took time Monday morning to remember those who served the country not only on D-Day but in all American military operations. U.S. Army Reserve Captain Jase Blunt used the upcoming anniversary of D-Day as the focal point for his keynote speech at Elmwoods Memorial Day service. An estimated 85 people came to Elmwood Cemetery to take part in a ceremony that featured songs, speeches, prayers and a gun salute. Operation Overlord best known as the D-Day invasion took place on June 6, 1944, and changed the course of World War II. The mission allowed Allied troops to gain a foothold in northern Europe at a time when Germany controlled much of the continent. Allied victories in multiple battles caused Germany to surrender 11 months later in May 1945. Blunt said everyone present at Elmwoods ceremony would experience similar turning points in their lives. These could include career choices, marriage, diagnosis of diseases, family decisions or crisis management situations. For some residents, their D-Day events happened many years ago. For others, it could be many years away. Blunt said the critical component of all of those moments was not when they would happen, but how people would respond to them. I pose to you this question: when is your D-Day? Blunt said. Everyone has one or two in their livesWhen was your last D-Day? When was the last time you made a sacrifice to improve yourself or your community? Blunt said it was important for people to remember they could help others in a variety of ways through their D-Day choices. Soldiers arrived in Europe from both boat and airplane and landed in many sites along the coast of northern France. Their specific missions may have looked different, but they all had the same goal of helping Allied nations win the war. The route the solider took didnt matter, Blunt said. What mattered is that they were there. Blunt said he also wanted local residents to remember those who perished on battlefields either on American soil or abroad. He said the efforts of people over the past three centuries had paved the way for the freedoms found in the nation in 2019. Today, between the barbecues, hamburgers and potato salad, let us take a moment to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, Blunt said. Blunt is a civil affairs team leader for Bravo Company of the 418th Civil Affairs Battalion of the United States Army Reserve. The Elmwood-Murdock graduate enlisted in the Army Reserves military police unit in 1996 and received his commission in 2010. He has been a team leader, battle non-commissioned officer, platoon leader and detachment commander. Blunt has been part of U.S. troop deployments in both Iraq (Operation Iraqi Freedom) and Afghanistan (Operation Enduring Freedom). Blunt lives in Gretna and is a captain with the Omaha Fire Department. He is part of a leadership team responsible for training the 650-person department. He owns a masters degree in public administration with a specialization in fire science management from Anna Maria College. Retired U.S. Navy serviceman Jeff Johnston welcomed people to the Memorial Day service and introduced Blunt and other speakers. He also led a memorial service for World War II veteran Oral Kuehn, who passed away in September 2018. Johnston said the former American Legion Post 247 member played a vital role in helping both Elmwood and the entire country. Because of them, our lives are free, Johnston said. Because of them, our nation lives. Elmwood-Murdock Class of 2020 students Chloe Hosier and Constence Baker both offered their talents for the ceremony. Hosier, who is Elmwood-Murdocks 2019 Cornhusker Girls State representative, provided a history of Memorial Day by reading General Logans Order Number 11. Baker sang the national anthem at the beginning of the event and later showcased her musical skills with God Bless America. Rev. Dianna Clark of Elmwood Christian Church provided an invocation and benediction, and State Senator Robert Clements played Battle Hymn of the Republic and Taps on trumpet. Christian Brettmann, Odin Janssen, Noam Reiter, Brandt Jacobson and Rebecca Brettmann placed memorial wreaths during the ceremony. They are members of local Boy and Girl Scout troops. Janssen, Reiter, Jacobson and Christian Brettmann later participated in a flag-folding ceremony. They carefully folded an American flag while Boy Scouts Pack 360 representative Nathan Brettmann read the meanings of each step to the crowd. American Legion Post 247 Commander Bonnie Brewer said post members are beginning to prepare for a major milestone next year. American Legion Post 247 will be commemorating its 100th anniversary in 2020. Members are asking area residents to provide ideas for possible centennial celebration events. Residents who have historical photographs, memories of past Memorial Day services or ideas for future celebration events may contact Brewer at either 402-994-5315 or bb45231@windstream.net. 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. BEAVER LAKE Four people, including a Plattsmouth woman and a Beaver Lake woman, were killed Sunday night in a two-vehicle head-on collision on U.S. Highway 75 near Young Road, north of Beaver Lake. Three people died on impact in one vehicle, while the fourth person died on impact in the other vehicle. According to the Cass County Sheriffs Department, those killed were: Walter Guy Minshall 2nd, 57, of Omahadriver of a Dodge Caravan. Brenda Sue Minshall, 49, of Madisonfront passenger in the Caravan. Constance Joann Gillott, 53, of Plattsmouthrear passenger in the Caravan. Taylor E. Grasewicz, 20, of Beaver Lakedriver of a Ford Mustang. Grasewicz graduated with honors in 2016 from Conestoga High School and was involved in many activities. Three others were injured, according to the sheriffs department. They are: Anthony Scott Drake, 22, of Murdockfront passenger in the Mustang. Dakota D. Keyser, 20, of Plattsmouthrear passenger in the Mustang. Scarlet Eve Stodola, 18, of Beaver Lakerear passenger in the Mustang. Next of kin have been notified for all deceased parties, according to the sheriffs department. Cass County Attorneys Office has requested autopsies on the two drivers, Minshall and Grasewicz. Authorities were notified of the accident at 9:45 p.m. According to Sheriff William Brueggemann, the 2000 Dodge Caravan had turned northbound onto Hwy. 75 from First Avenue and was then observed accelerating northbound in the southbound lane of the highway. The Caravan then struck the 2013 Mustang head-on just south of Young Road. All three occupants of the Caravan were killed on impact. The driver of the Mustang was also killed on impact, according to the sheriff. The three other occupants of the Mustang were transported to Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. Seat belts were in use by the driver and front passenger of the Caravan. Investigators said all other occupants appear to have been unrestrained. Alcohol is being investigated as a factor, according to Brueggemann. Crash is still under investigation. Agencies responding to the scene, along with deputies from the sheriffs department, were the Nebraska State Patrol, Murray Fire and Rescue, Plattsmouth Fire and EMS, and Cass County Paramedics. Assistance was also provided at the scene by members of the South Metro Crash Reconstruction Team. This is a developing story. Updates will be provided when available. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 12 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. Gray, rainy skies broke into sunny blue on Monday morning as area residents gathered to observe Memorial Day. Some attendees filled a couple sets of bleachers at Veterans Park in Fremont. Others sat in lawn chairs under leafy trees in the park with features monuments paying tribute to different branches of the military and the wars in which Americans fought and died. Over 1 million of American sons and daughters have given their last full measure in defense of liberty and justice throughout the 242 years that our democracy has flourished and certainly we hold those men and women in our hearts as we observe Memorial Day in 2019, said Mayor Scott Getzschman, when issuing a proclamation naming May 27 as Memorial Day in Fremont. Getzschman provided a brief history of the holiday, originally called Decoration Day. Since May 1868, this has been officially celebrated as Memorial Day, Getzschman said. The mayor and city council feel that considerable and well-deserved public recognition should be afforded to all who have served our great nation for over 151 years and continue to do so today. Getzschman previously had announced that councilmembers Mike Kuhns and Susan Jacobus were attending the event. Representatives of different veterans groups and branches of the military were at the event as were those from the Fremont Police Department, Fremont Fire Department, Fremont Cadet SquadronCivil Air Patrol and Dodge County REACT. R.J. Riggs, commander of the Disabled American Veterans, Joseph C.H. Bales Chapter 18 in Fremont, made opening and closing remarks. A former Fremonter, Riggs mentioned how proud he is of the community where he grew up, because of its support for veterans. As part of the event, representatives of the different veterans organizations and law enforcement participated in the Laying of the Wreathes. Veteran Russell Robinson laid a wreath at the monument honoring the U.S. Marines. Veterans representing other branches of the military laid wreaths at the corresponding monuments. Wreathes were laid honor of veterans organizations as well. Shannon Engel, a junior at Fremont High School, sang Amazing Grace. Riggs was pleased with the event. I think we had a good crowd, he said. It went very well and we had representatives from all the units. Riggs expressed appreciation for firefighters and rescue squad members from the Fremont Fire Department who attended the event and were on site to help when a woman had a medical emergency. Were so glad the first responders were here, he said. The rifle squad of the Veterans of Foreign Wars color guard presented the 21-gun salute and a bugler played Taps. Attendees were invited to a free lunch at the DAV building in downtown Fremont. Inclement weather prevented the installation of the Avenue of Flags along Military Avenue. However, Al Martinez of the DAV said 27 American flags posted at the entrance of the park represent the nations history as depicted by the number of starsrepresenting the number of states in the U.S. during particular time periods. For instance, one flag would have just 13 stars all the way up to the current flag with 50 stars. 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 Fremont City Council will consider two redevelopment agreements on Morningside Road that will utilize Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) if approved during the meeting on Tuesday. The first proposed project includes the construction of a new commercial center, parking lots, and other improvements in a series of up to six phases in the Morningside Road Redevelopment Area with an estimated assessed valuation of nearly $12 million. The project would utilize $2.083 million in TIF funding. The project represents the commercial aspects of the Morningside Crossing mixed-use housing development located near the U.S. 275 interchange along the north side of Morningside Road. The multi-family apartment area is not part of the redevelopment project, my client is not seeking Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for anything related to the apartments, Tom Huston of Cline Williams Wright Johnson & Oldfather, representing developer Pure Properties, LLC, said. What is in front of you is the redevelopment plan that pertains to the commercial lots. The proposed improvements for which approximately $2.083 of TIF would be utilized include site acquisition, site preparation, architectural and engineering fees, public utility extension and installation, installation of streets and sidewalks, landscaping, facade enhancements, energy efficiency enhancements, and other improvements deemed feasible and necessary in support of the public health, safety and welfare, according to information included in the redevelopment plan. The cost-benefit analysis is based on the project consisting of four commercial flex-buildings, a convenience store and fueling station, a retail strip center and single-tenant retail building and a self-storage facility. The first phase will include the construction of an approximately 5,000 square foot convenience store and fueling station. The second project involves the construction of a 70,000 square foot warehouse in the Morningside Road Redevelopment Area with an estimated assessed valuation of $2 million. The project would utilize $360,000 in TIF funding. The project is being developed by Western Integrated Seed and would be located on east side of Luther Road north of Morningside Road within the South Fremont Business Park. According to Huston, if approved construction on the warehouse building would commence almost immediately and continue over the next year or so. He estimated the total project cost at approximately $4 million. The building itself would include a seed treating area, packaging area and warehouse uses, he said. He added that the new Western Integrated Seed facility would employ approximately 5-7 employees per shift, with the company running three shifts. At full operation, the employment gain could be over 20 jobs, he said. The Morningside Road Redevelopment area was declared blighted and substandard, and the Morningside Business Park Redevelopment Plan was also approved, by the Fremont City Council in July 2014. The Fremont City Councils full agenda can be found online at fremontne.gov/agendacenter. The council meeting is set to begin at 7 p.m. within the City Council Chambers at 400 E. Military. An open public comment period will begin prior to the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has called for the complete withdrawal of international forces from Afghanistan at a meeting in Moscow attended by a Taliban delegation. The 14-member delegation headed by the Taliban's deputy leader, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, is in Moscow for two days of talks with senior Afghan politicians and tribal elders. "Russia is convinced that there is no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan. The only possible way...is to achieve peace by political and diplomatic means," Lavrov told a May 28 meeting marking the centenary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Afghanistan. "We are calling for a total pullout of foreign forces from the country. We are calling on all Afghan sides to start talks as soon as possible involving a broad range of social and political forces," Lavrov said, while welcoming the Taliban delegation's participation in the event, despite the fact that the militant movement is designated a terrorist organization in Russia. Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Afghan Ambassador to Russia Mohammad Latif Bahand also attended the event, TASS reported. It was not immediately clear if Bahand will hold talks with the Taliban delegation. In a May 27 statement, spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said Taliban negotiators would meet with Afghan politicians and tribal elders in Moscow to discuss the future of Afghanistan. Mujahid did not say whether Taliban envoys would meet with any Afghan government officials. The meeting in Moscow comes amid a push by the United States for a peace settlement with the Taliban. Zalmay Khalilzad, the U.S. envoy seeking a peace deal with the Taliban, has held several rounds of talks with the militants in Qatar in recent months. The sides have made progress, but the Taliban has so far rejected the idea of direct negotiations with the Afghan government. A summit planned for April in Qatar was canceled. Taliban officials met a delegation of Afghan power brokers in Moscow in November and February, but those talks did not include members of President Ashraf Ghani's government. Khalilzad welcomed Russias efforts in the peace process, although some U.S. officials have said Moscow is promoting itself as a power broker in order to challenge the U.S.-backed peace process with the Taliban in Qatar. With reporting by Reuters, TASS, and AFP Reports from northwestern Pakistan indicate that the authorities have arrested a journalist and 22 activists of a civil movement campaigning for rights and security for Pakistans Pashtun minority. The arrests took place amid calls by domestic and international human rights watchdogs for probes into the recent violence involving the group. On May 28, Pakistans Independent Urdu news website reported that journalist Gohar Wazir had been arrested along with 22 activists from the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) in the northwestern city of Bannu. The city is the administrative hub of a district by the same name that borders the North Waziristan tribal district, where the PTM says the Pakistani military killed 13 of its supporters on May 26. The Pakistani military, however, blames two PTM lawmakers for leading an attack on their checkpoint in Khar Qamar. The military said at least three people were killed when soldiers opened fire on attackers in the remote region near the border with Afghanistan. Requesting anonymity because of a possible clampdown, several PTM activists confirmed to Radio Mashaal that 20 of their comrades, including several leaders, were arrested in Bannu. A police official also confirmed the arrests. Another PTM leader told the BBC that the movements supporters are facing a wider government crackdown across Pakistan. Roofan Khan, a local journalist, told Independent Urdu that Wazir and the PTM activists were moved to a prison in Haripur, a town nearly 400 kilometers north of Bannu in the same province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. I dont know why my brother was arrested, but I feel it was connected to the PTM, Wazirs brother Anwar Kamal told Independent Urdu. On May 27, Wazir had interviewed PTM lawmaker Mohsin Dawar. In YouTube videos posted by Wazir, Dawar offered his account of the May 26 incident. Dawar claimed the military had fired on the group soon after it reached the protest site after crossing two military checkpoints in Khar Qamar. He said 13 PTM protesters were killed while scores more were injured in the shooting. But in a press statement on May 26 the military said troops had responded to direct firing at the post, killing three attackers and wounding 10 others after a group led by lawmakers Dawar and Ali Wazir attacked the Khar Qamar checkpoint. The military acknowledged arresting Ali and said Dawar was at large. In another statement on May 27, the military said it was trying to identify five more bodies found with gunshot wounds near the site. But the PTMs supporters rejected the militarys version of events. Activists staged protests in several towns and cities of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the neighboring southwestern province of Balochistan to demand an independent probe into the killings. In Peshawar, senior PTM leader Rahim Shah told the BBC that since May 26 many PTM activists have been arrested across Pakistan. The authorities, however, have said nothing about the arrests or a current crackdown against the movement. Speaking to the BBC from Miran Shah, the administrative headquarters of North Waziristan, Dawar said they have already launched a sit-in protest. We will decide on our demands after our comrades reach here, but we will definitely demand that the Pakistani Army must leave Waziristan, he said. But Pakistani and international media reports suggest the authorities are not allowing PTM supporters to join the protest in Miran Shah by blocking access to the region through the only road connecting it to Bannu. The region is also under a curfew that prohibits any movement. According to VOAs Deewa Radio, the authorities also imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code in neighboring South Waziristan tribal district. This law is often invoked in Pakistan to prevent protests and political gatherings. Global rights watchdog Amnesty International (AI) and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), a domestic nongovernmental rights group, have called for an independent probe. HRCP demands the release of MNA Ali Wazir and any other activists taken into custody, the HRCP said on May 27. It also calls for a parliamentary commission to be set up immediately to inquire into the matter and establish the truth. AI backed the call. The Pakistan government must immediately order an independent and effective investigation into the killing of activists on Sunday in North Waziristan, said Rabia Mehmood, an AI South Asia researcher. If the reports are correct that the army killed protesters by unlawfully using live ammunition, this would be a very serious violation of international law. The violence is one of the most serious incidents in a long-running confrontation between Pakistans powerful military and the PTM. The movement emerged last year to demand Islamabad probe illegal killings, enforced disappearances, and other excesses while taking steps to clear landmines from the countrys western Pashtun regions along the border with Afghanistan. With some 35 million people, Pashtuns are the largest minority among Pakistans 207 million population. PTM leaders maintain that Pashtuns, particularly those living in the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), paid a heavy price for Islamabads domestic war on terrorism after 9/11. Officials and independent observers agree that Pashtuns were a majority of the more than 70,000 civilians killed in militant attacks and military counterinsurgency campaigns since 2003. The conflict has also displaced more than 6 million Pashtuns in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and FATA. The PTM maintains that it is speaking out on behalf of such victims. But in a veiled reference to neighboring India and Afghanistan, the military accuses the PTM of being funded by foreign spy services. Military leaders have accused the movement of stroking unrest in the Pashtun homeland after the security forces defeated the Pakistani Taliban. The PTM rejects the militarys accusations and says it is struggling to gain basic human rights for the Pashtun people after they have suffered years of conflict between the security forces and Islamist militants. -- With reporting by Reuters Fans of Montagues Coffee and Tea expressed sadness via Facebook at the announcement the shop was closing. After more than 20 years in business, the owners decide to call it quits. Three things happened, said Forrest Levi Koch, general manager and cake baker. There was a big drop in business when Dave (McIntosh) and Jeff (Weller) sold the business. When they left, the staff changed and its been hard to find good people to replace the staff. And over the past two years, the cost of labor has made it hard to keep up. Koch said the furniture, equipment and fixtures will be sold piece by piece. McIntosh and Weller opened the shop in 1997, naming it after the business that had been in the small, brick building at 1019 S. Tejon St. for 37 years a place called Monty's Inn. Aside from the name, Monty's and Montague's couldn't have been more different. Montague's was a refined tea and coffee emporium where ladies tended to chat by the fire over scones and blackberry tea while sitting in Victorian wing chairs. Monty's catered to a slightly less cultured crowd. A 1989 Gazette article described it as "a rough, biker bar where hard-drinking, hard-brawling types go to let off some steam." In 2017, McIntosh and Weller sold the business to Capulets, Inc. New grounds Sacred Grounds Cafe, 1801 Cheyenne Blvd., is having a grand opening 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday to celebrate a new menu and patio where a full bar has been installed. Owner Natasha Shnaper is more than excited to show off the additional space. The return of live music begins next week at 6:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Details: 475-0888, tinyurl.com/y5yz467x. Tasty choice Till Kitchen made the winning entry in the Toasty Smores Tasting Contest. Its Savory and Smore Lamb Chop dish got a final surge of votes, and the restaurant will be celebrated at the Rocky Mountain Vibes home opener June 22. 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. They met a few years into the new century when they were students at the University of Colorado in Boulder and gravitated to positions in the schools uniquely powerful form of student government. Fifteen years later, after founding a nonpartisan organization dedicated to engaging young people in the civic process, the four friends from college have found themselves filling some of the most powerful political positions in Colorado. It isnt uncommon for a group of young friends to decide theyre going to conquer the world. But after last years election, these four Colorado Democrats U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse, state Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, state Rep. Leslie Herod and Lisa Kaufmann, chief of staff to Gov. Jared Polis are at least well on their way to conquering the state. For decades, CU Boulder has boasted an autonomous student government that controls the largest budget for such a group in the country. Generated by student fees, that budget was some $36 million when the four friends were in school there, and its around $24 million these days. The complex organization mirrors the three branches of federal and state government, including three tri-executives, a Legislative Council and a judicial branch with seven justices. Herod, who was elected to her second term representing Denvers state House District 8 in November, said the chance to work together in the student government in various capacities taught the four friends they could have an outsized influence on policy. What was in the water at CU? We wanted to make change, and we wanted to make change together. We saw student government as the vehicle to make that change, she told Colorado Politics. We learned we had the power to make real change through getting students engaged in the process. When we walked in, we had no idea students had that much power. When we found out, we decided we were going to make change for good, she said. We learned a lot of tough lessons at an early age around how policy works and it doesnt work, how different branches interact with each other. While we might want to do something, the regents might want to do something different, the city of Boulder might want to do something different. That is a part of why we are now here doing this work it was ingrained in us; we learned together and we took our hard knocks together, and we succeeded together. She added: Youll notice none of us really stay in our lanes were not lane-stayers. No master plan Fenberg, who was elected to Boulders Senate District 18 in 2016, agreed. When youre a young person, youre looking to be involved and have some authority shaping things, and then theres an opportunity presented where you have the tools and resources it very much shapes who you are, he said. It feels like we were just kids, but we were doing things lobbying at the Capitol, working on ballot measures, working on legislation doing things that had an impact on our campus and our community. All of us have kept doing that in different ways, but our community got a little bigger. There was no master plan, he added with a laugh. I think we all knew we wanted to keep doing that work, and we were friends. If youd asked me then if Joe would be in Congress, I think I would believe that, but the rest of it is all kind of weird. Its almost comical how we all are still involved and still work with each other every single day. He paused for a moment to check his phone. I talk to Lisa like 12 times a day she literally beeped in while we were talking and talk to Joe almost every night. Thats how its been pretty much for 14, 15 years. The amount of times Im talking to Joe, and Lisa beeps in and we merge the calls thats a normal occurrence on a weekly basis. Kaufmann made a similar point in an interview at her office in the state Capitol. Theres definitely been no master plan, she said. What you have is a group of friends and Im not including myself in this Joe, Leslie and Steve, being really talented at giving voice to communities that need a voice and building effective coalitions, and being really focused about it. But while theres no master plan, it doesnt surprise me to see where theyve each gone. She said it was CUs student-run environmental center funded by student government, its the largest center of its kind in the country that drew her to the school. It is this unique platform to let college students have a platform to make a difference, with a real budget to make a difference, she said. We found unity in purpose, recalled Neguse, the first of the group to serve in public office when he was elected a CU regent in 2008 while he was still in law school. We were all driven young folks trying to make a difference and figured we could do that together. As fate would have it, weve had this wonderful friendship over the course of the next 15 years thats enabled each of us to play a unique role in different ways. He continued: I consider them some of my closest friends, and its exciting to be able to see the work theyre doing at the state level, to have Steve and Leslie on the second floor and Lisa on the first floor of the state Capitol. It feels like were family It was the decision to form New Era Colorado in 2006, after they graduated, however, that cemented their bonds and set them on the path theyre still traveling. Since the four were among its founders Fenberg served as its executive director until departing to run for the state Senate the nonpartisan group has registered around 150,000 voters in Colorado and pushed the state to adopt online voter registration and pre-registration for residents as young as 16. When we finished student government, we knew we wanted to keep it going. Thats why we started New Era, Herod said. Kaufmann recalled brainstorming the blueprint for New Era with Fenberg during the summer after college when they fixed up her old diesel Mercedes. We were talking that summer about part of the reason these organizations dont do an effective job turning young people out to vote is because its a lot of older people running organizations trying to talk to young people, and it wasnt really authentic engagement. That was the theory of change behind starting New Era, that if you had young people developing engagement programs for young people, it would be more effective, and I think thats completely borne out, she said. Fenberg said the foundation for their continued close friendship and working relationship was set that summer. From time to time, Ill search my Gmail and find an email thread from 2006 of us all talking about naming this new organization, he said. The way we talked to each other back then is the way we work together now. I care about all of my colleagues, but I cant say for sure every one of them will have my back no matter what. But when it comes to Lisa, Joe and Leslie, we will always look out for each other, politically or in a personal sense. He added: It feels like were family. I dont think very many people feel like they have that in politics. Its one thing to have that at all, but in politics, people dont trust each other theyre trying to one-up, get an advantage, but for us, each others success is a success for all of us. When one of us does better, we all do better. All four stress that theyre one part of a large cohort of civically minded alumnae who first worked together in CUs student government at around the same time. We have folks in student government who are activist now, we have folks who are business leaders, we have folks who are running nonprofits and think tanks theres not a place or an issue that I have a question about that I cant call someone who has been in the trenches with me all these years, said Herod. Its a big group Their contemporaries include former state Sen. Jessie Ulibarri, who runs the State Innovation Exchange, known a SiX; Sergio Gonzales, deputy director of the Immigration Hub and a former top aide to U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris of California; Courtney Law, director of communications for the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver; Laura Pinky Reinsch, the former political director of LGBTQ advocacy organization One Colorado; Rob DuRay, a civic engagement consultant and co-founder of New Era; former Polis congressional staffer Jessica Bralish; top lobbyists Benjamin Waters, Brittany Morse Saunders, Jeff Thormodsgaard and Katie Wolf; Richard Murray, an attorney at Polsinelli PC; and Republican political consultant Ryan Lynch. Other major figures in Colorados political landscape passed through CUs student government in the years immediately before and after, including state Rep. Jovan Melton, former state Reps. Dan Pabon and Joe Salazar, attorney Scott Martinez, Democratic strategist Lynea Hansen, and Daniel Ramos, current executive director of One Colorado. Playing politics We learned that we all had different areas of expertise and strength, and there was a dance we could do with each other to highlight those strengths and to win. Thats why you see us in all different positions, Herod said. Some people are better at grassroots, some people are better at grass tops, some people are better at (communications), some are better at staying behind the scenes and doing the data. We learned that each of those roles were equally as important. Being a figurehead was not the end, the figurehead was not the goal. The goal was making policy changes. Lynch, who was president of the Sigma Nu fraternity and ran CUs Interfraternity Council, worked in student government with the more liberal students as part of a longstanding alliance between progressive groups and the Greek system at the school. The way he describes it, in those days the groups would negotiate slates of candidates and designate coveted staff positions to ensure both the more conservative and liberal groups would have a seat at the table. The spending autonomy, the organizational structure these are all lessons most students will never get in college. These are real-life issues, everything from budgeting and spending, and in the case of the alliance, working together with people that have opposing viewpoints on a lot of things, he said. It wasnt as political as it might seem, given that were all in politics now. But you learn about collaboration and coming together to achieve a common cause. Lynch said the experience was invaluable. You didnt see a lot of people playing politics. What you saw was a lot of people working together for the benefit of the student body as a whole. Now were all in positions where were playing politics, but what we learned from working collaboratively, we can take forward into our current endeavors, he said. He pointed to an issue that brought the sides together. Rising tuition was going to impact everybody, he said. It was certainly a hot-button issue for them, but it transcended political lines. Tuition was growing exponentially at the time; thats something that equally impacted everybody. I dont know that everybody agreed on the solution, but everybody agreed something needed to be done to curb rising tuition at CU. That was an issue that transcended party lines. Neguse said the cost of public higher education has always been a key motivation for him. Thats what brought me into politics, he told Colorado Politics. Being the son of immigrant parents, knowing just how important public higher education was for my familys success for my dad, who went to a four-year state school in California. At that time, the big policy battle in 2003, 2004, was the woeful state of our state budget and the fact higher education was on the chopping block. We organized different campaigns to make the case that public higher education was a community good, that it was a value to the entire community, not just to those who matriculate. 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: Washington Colorados U.S. senators have introduced a bill to boost the outdoor recreation industry on public lands. Outfitters, educational organizations and community groups would get easier access to permits they need to work or seek recreation on federal lands. Sens. Cory Gardner, a Republican, and Michael Bennet, a Democrat, call their bill the Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation (SOAR) Act. The federal government owns nearly 68% of Colorados forests, with the U.S. Forest Service managing about 11.3 million acres. The SOAR bill, which was introduced Friday, would widen the range of activities allowed with one permit for outfitters, guides and others. Permits issued now by the Forest Service and other federal agencies often narrowly define the activities allowed. The bill would enable one permit to replace the multiple permits now required by different agencies. Gardner said the bill will not only allow greater access to the outdoors, but also boost Colorados outdoor recreation economy. Bennet said in a statement, Simplifying and streamlining the permitting process will remove unnecessary hurdles for outfitters and guides, and improve access to our public lands for all Coloradans to enjoy. The bill also would control liability insurance costs for permit-holders by letting them use liability release forms with their clients. Interior Department agencies would have to offer more short-term permits and create a program to share unused permit service days between permit-holders. They also would have to notify the public when new outdoor recreation permits become available. Besides the Forest Service, federal agencies that manage public lands include the Bureau of Land Management, the Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Park Service. The proposed bill is supported by the America Outdoors Association and the Colorado River Outfitters Association. SOAR is written to make common-sense changes to the permitting processes and provides greater access to public lands in a way that increases economic benefits and continues environmental protections, said Julie Kahlfeldt, executive director of the America Outdoors Association, which represents outdoor adventure businesses. Said David Costlow, executive director of the Colorado River Outfitters Association, If there is one thing business enjoys, it is predictability and consistency in decision-making at all levels. This bill makes great strides in accomplishing this. Costlows group represents whitewater and float fishing outfitters. The senators introduced the bill as Colorados outdoor recreation industry braces for a sharp spike in prices from recently announced Trump administration tariffs on equipment made in China. The tariffs are scheduled to rise 25% this year on Chinese-manufactured goods, including skis, kayaks, camping gear and bicycles. Working in favor of the SOAR Act is a Trump administration policy of making public lands more widely available for commercial use. So far, the policy has included allowing more mineral extraction by oil, gas and mining companies. And it has reduced the size of protected wildlands, such as Bears Ears National Monument in Utah near the Colorado border. The policy has outraged environmental groups in the West. Several lawsuits against the Trump administration have been filed by environmentalists in California, Arizona and elsewhere. They have not yet commented on the SOAR Act. Remember the recently posted Obi Wan Kenobi vs Darth Vader lightsaber battle video that was edited for supposed improvement? Well hot warm on the heels of that video comes another handful of scenes (including the same lightsaber battle) from Star Wars: A New Hope, this time humorously edited by the folks at Youtube channel Auralnauts with cuts from Rogue One included to reimagine them even better (and lighthearted) than the original. Some more info while I reimagine my life if I'd been born a rich prince, which there's no way wouldn't be better than the original unless I was murdered young for my heir to the throne: The fix everything ship has sailed. We're on it and there are no lifeboats. It's a one way trip and we have the power of hindsight and a better understanding of the material than the original creators. So, are they actually better than the original? I suppose it depends on just how comedic you like your space operas (I did like those Han Solo and Princess Leia closeups). Please explain why or why not this is better in a detailed report, and have it on my desk by 5PM. Hard copy please -- I don't know how to work my email. I'd do the analysis myself, but *carefully placing Cinnamon Toast Crunch square under microscope* I'm in the middle of something much more important at the moment. Keep going for the video. Thanks to carey, who agrees the best Star Wars has been and always will be the 1978 Christmas Special. It was perfect. The Iowa Business Council will hold its second Vision to Vitality community forum from 4 p.m.5:30 p.m. on June 3 at NIACC Muse Norris Conference Center, Room 180. This forum will be hosted by IBC member Dan Houston, chairman, president and CEO of Principal. The Mason City Vision to Vitality forum will focus on the theme "Answering Iowa's Workforce Challenge: Retention, Attraction and Education." The forum will bring leaders from both the public and private sectors together to identify initiatives to retain current residents, attract new individuals and explore best ways to educate each group on career opportunities in north central Iowa. Local business leaders and citizens will also provide their input on best ways forward to grow and diversify their population to fuel growth. Held quarterly across the state, the Vision to Vitality forums are candid discussions with IBC members, local community leaders, educators and citizens about the state of north Iowa corridor's economy and best practices on future growth. After the release of the IBC's 2019 Competitive Dashboard, members recognized a critical part of strengthening the workforce must mean growing Iowa's population and retaining the current residents. This panel will discuss barriers to their current workforce and population growth; existing plans to augment population; and, share their thoughts on incorporating and championing diversity in their community and place of work. The forum will then open to a comment and question and answer session from the audience of business leaders, non-profit sector representation, educators and community members. The first Vision to Vitality panel this year was held in Marshalltown. The community conversation revolved around efforts to bolster retention of current population while welcoming new cultures and a diverse workforce. The event is free to attend and open to both the public and the media. Panelists include: Jennifer Andrade, founder and CEO of The Avance Alliance Chief Jeff Brinkley, Mason City Police Department Chad Schreck, president and CEO of North Iowa Corridor Economic Development Corporation Dave Versteeg, superintendent of Mason City Schools Please RSVP to ibc@iowabusinesscouncil.org Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Since announcing his campaign for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination on May 14, Montana Gov. Steve Bullock has centered his campaign on being able to win in Republican strongholds and reach across the aisle. The two-term governor has highlighted this in appearances on NPR, on TV hits for MSNBC and, repeatedly, in campaign emails. Bullock, who won in Montana in 2016 as the state gave President Donald Trump 56% of the vote, continued to sound that electability drum as he spoke with Iowa constituents at Cabin Coffee Co. in Mason City on a drizzly Tuesday morning. "We have to reach out to more than patches of blue," Bullock said to the crowd of about three dozen. And he returned to that specific point multiple times in the 20-plus minutes he spoke. In between his pronouncements that the Democratic Party needs to take care to reach out to places that aren't strongholds, Bullock touted his record of governance in the Treasure State. He pointed to the bi-partisan passage of the DISCLOSE Act in Montana in 2015, which stops campaigns and out-of-state political groups for closely coordinating, as one notable achievement. "If we can kick the Koch brothers out of Montana, we can kick them out of Iowa," Bullock said while acknowledging what he saw as the deleterious effects of the Supreme Court's Citizen's United decision in 2010. "Don't ever kid yourself about what one justice can do," Bullock put it. Electoral issues weren't the sole focus though. Bullock also touted that he had "stopped every attack on a woman's right to make her own health care decisions" during his time as governor so far. That pronouncement of course comes from Bullock, who has a 100% rating from the National Abortion and Reproductive Rights Action League (NARAL) at a time when multiple states have passed more restrictive abortion laws aimed at making it to the Supreme Court. He spoke to the issue of healthcare access more broadly by pointing to his state's expansion of Medicaid over the past several years and clarified that he thinks healthcare should be accessible and affordable for all. Bullock additionally expressed concern about the issue of climate change which he has previously said is hastened by carbon emissions though he didn't go into great detail about the specifics of his plan beyond re-entering the Paris Climate Accord, and received criticism in 2016 for punting on the creation of a council to advise on emissions reduction policy. While less defined, the other tract of Bullock's pitch for Iowans was the issue of fairness and his belief in achieving some form of that. Bullock argued that "far too many folks no longer have a shot" and that the system, at present time, exacerbated matters instead of improving them. If more people could afford tuition prices, Bullock proposed, more folks would be capable of climbing the latter to success. "As the father of three kids, you have to be an optimist." 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. Just as GOP members of the Iowa congressional delegation were celebrating the expected passage of a disaster aid package that would help flooding victims in the southwest and southeast corners of the state, a Texas Republican threw a wrench Friday into the works. Its long-past due, U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley said after the Senate passed the $19.1 billion aid package, which included his amendment to provide relief to farmers who lost stored grain in the recent floods. Politics shouldnt be played when Americans need help recovering from disasters. And added U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst: At long last, Republicans and Democrats came together on a bipartisan disaster relief package that will deliver desperately-needed aid to folks across the country. But when the measure, which includes disaster relief for other parts of the country including Puerto Rico, got to the House, a single Republican objected. Freshman U.S. Rep. Chip Roy of Texas refused to go along with the compromise measure, saying it would add to the national debt and also left out $4.4 billion for federal operations at the U.S.-Mexico border. When the House is in full session, the objection of a lone lawmaker would not prevent a measure from passing. But with the House only in a procedural session with few members present before the long holiday weekend passage would have required unanimous consent. Although members can try again next week for unanimous consent, the House isnt scheduled to be back in full session until June 3. Iowa First District Democratic U.S. Rep. Abby Finkenauer said it was unconscionable to play politics with Americans lives. Neighbors throughout Iowa are hurting and still devastated by natural disasters and need assistance. Now isnt the time for a publicity stunt, she said Friday. So the playing politics shoe is now on the other foot. Republicans, including Grassley and Ernst, have been critical of those Senate Democrats seeking their partys 2020 presidential nomination who came to Iowa to tour the flood damage but blocked the disaster relief package because it did not include enough funding for Puerto Rico. The compromise that was on track to pass before Friday included more money for Puerto Rico and was to deal with border issues separately. President Donald Trump wrote on Twitter the deal had his total approval. Finkenauer called the bill critical for Iowa communities recovering from flooding, including on the Mississippi River, that borders her district. It includes $3 billion in U.S. Department of Agriculture funding to assist farmers with crop losses, $558 million for the Emergency Conservation Program, $600 million to assist with flood mitigation, long-term recovery and infrastructure restoration and $1.65 billion for the Federal Highway Administrations emergency relief program to repair damaged roads. Grassleys provision extended the USDA aid to include destroyed crops that already were harvested and stored, such as corn and soybeans. Currently, there are no federal disaster programs for the loss of grain stored on farms. Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig estimated roughly 100,000 acres of farmland were affected by flooding in Pottawattamie, Mills and Freemont counties. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 DES MOINES -- Iowas medical cannabis program will not be expanded after Gov. Kim Reynolds late last week vetoed legislation that would have eliminated the cap on the products potency and instead limited how much an individual could be prescribed. The proposal would have removed the 3 percent cap on how much THC the chemical in marijuana that creates the users high sensation could be in a medical cannabis product and instead limited the amount of medical cannabis a patient can be prescribed at any one time to 25 grams over 90 days. Supporters said the expansion is necessary because the 3 percent cap limits the products effectiveness against most ailments. Reynolds said she vetoed the proposal because the cap of 25 grams over 90 days would allow an individual to consume more THC per day even than a recreational marijuana user. If approved, it would drastically expand Iowas medical CBD program far beyond its original scope of CBD-based treatments and could open the door to significant unintended consequences to the health and safety of Iowans, Reynolds said in a statement. Reynolds deferred to the state medical cannabis board, which recommended a cap of just 4.5 grams per 90 days. The board was created to provide oversight of the state medical cannabis program and recommend changes to state lawmakers. It is comprised of eight physicians and one law enforcement official, each of whom is appointed by the governor. I agree that there should be some change to the 3 percent THC limit, Reynolds said. There appears to be consensus, including from the board, that a gram-based limit would be more appropriate than a percentage-based limit. But I have not been unable to discern any evidence-based justification for the specific 25-gram limit proposed in this bill. State public health department director Gerd Clabaugh also issued a statement supporting the veto over concerns with the amount of THC patients would be able to access. The proposal had widespread, bipartisan support among state lawmakers. It passed the Iowa Senate, 40-7, and the Iowa House, 96-3. Brad Zaun, a Republican state senator from Urbandale and a strong supporter of the states medical cannabis program and its proposed expansion, said in a statement he was extremely disappointed with the veto, but said after conversations with Reynolds he remains committed to work with her and other state lawmakers on the issue again during the 2020 legislative session. John Forbes, a Democratic state representative and a pharmacist from Urbandale, also said in a statement that he was disappointed by the veto. The governors veto is distressing news for thousands of sick and vulnerable Iowans who deserve greater access to this life-changing medication, Forbes said. Joe Bolkcom, a Democratic state senator from Iowa City and another frequent proponent of the state medical cannabis program and its expansion, has called the current program one of the least effective in the nation because of the THC cap and the narrow list of conditions for which the product can be used to treat. Iowas medical cannabis program is too bureaucratic, too expensive and makes thousands of sick Iowans needlessly suffer, Bolkcom said in a statement. Lucas Nelson, general manager of the Iowa medical cannabis manufacturer MedPharm, said in a statement that he was "greatly disappointed" by the veto and that it will "greatly hurt Iowans trying to fight debilitating medical conditions." "The bill would have fixed Iowas deeply flawed medical cannabis program while also keeping it one of the strictest perhaps the strictest in the country," Nelson said. "Todays veto fixes nothing. Instead, it guarantees the programs products will remain needlessly expensive and forces patients to consume more products than necessary to treat their conditions." Reynolds pledged to continue working with the board and lawmakers on potentially expanding the program, but cautioned the state must proceed cautiously and that any expansion should be thoughtful and deliberate because the program is relatively new --- it was created in 2013 --- and research on medical cannabis is limited. I look forward to working with the Legislature and the Medical Cannabidiol Board to find an evidence-based THC limit that we can work to enact along with the rest of the provisions in (the vetoed proposal) that I support, Reynolds said. The health and safety of Iowans is too important for us not to get this right. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A man who stabbed and seriously injured several people at a downtown Mason City bar last year has been sentenced to up to 25 years in prison. Raul Millares Arias, 40, Mason City, will be deported immediately upon being released from prison. He was charged with five counts of felony willful injury resulting in serious injury and felony going armed with intent following an incident on the Fourth of July at The Place 2B, 116 N. Federal Ave. One of the victims, Elaine Kockler, read a statement during Arias' sentencing hearing on Tuesday in Cerro Gordo County District Court. She said she spent nine days in intensive care due to a collapsed lung and lost one of her legs due to a blood clot. She's now trying to get used to a prosthetic leg, but is having difficulty and is using a wheelchair. "I went from a vibrant woman to one who needs help to go to the bathroom," Kockler said. She said Arias stabbed people due to a "temper tantrum" and needs to be in prison for a long time. Everyone in the bar that night was a victim, whether they were stabbed or not, according to Kockler. Cerro Gordo County Attorney Carlyle Dalen said Arias' crimes impacted the entire community. Arias entered an Alford plea with Cerro Gordo prosecutors on March 29. An Alford plea is when a person does not admit guilt but acknowledges prosecutors likely can prove the charge. The joint recommendation from the state and the defense was two, 10-year prison sentences for two of the willful injury charges and a five-year sentence for the armed with intent charge to be served consecutively. Prosecutors and Arias' attorney, David Skilton, also asked that the 10-year sentences for each of the other three willful injury charges run concurrently with the other counts for a total sentence of up to 25 years. Judge James Drew still had the option to give Arias the maximum possible sentence of up to 55 years in prison. However, he said the sentencing recommendation was reasonable. Arias had previously intended to rely on an intoxication defense. On Tuesday, Arias submitted a letter to the court that he wrote with the help of an interpreter. "I have seen the video of the harm I did to the people in the bar," the letter stated. "Although I don't know how I did this, I know I hurt these good people and I am sorry. I have never hurt anyone ever and I know I can't drink and won't drink in the future." Skilton said Arias was studying to receive his license to be a truck driver at the time of his arrest. Arias also had applied for and received a Green Card as a refuge from Cuba, according to Skilton. By being arrested, "He lost everything that he had," Skilton said. An evaluation determined Arias suffers from depression, insomnia and paranoia, according to Skilton. Arias had been asked to leave the downtown Mason City bar July 4 before stabbing four men and a woman with an 8-inch knife and attempting to stab a sixth person, according to police. He was chased out of the bar by a customer and detained by witnesses across the street before police arrived. The five people who were stabbed sustained serious injuries to their necks or backs, according to police. 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. For the second time in recent history, the North Iowa Band Festival parade marched through Mason City without the threat of rain. Alana Noss of Rockford and Jacob VerHelst from Central Springs were crowned Band Festival Queen and King under sunny skies. Alana is the daughter of Rob and Amy Noss and plans to attend the Original LaJames College of Cosmetology this fall. Jacobs parents are Mike and Lisa VerHelst. He will attend Iowa State University. For the fifth consecutive year, Lake Mills High School was awarded the Meredith Willson Sweepstakes prize, which is awarded to the high school marching band with the overall highest score. As host schools for the event, Mason City and Newman high schools marching bands are not eligible for the competition, and their royalty are not eligible to be crowned festival queen and king. To encourage participation in the marching band competition from area schools, the North Iowa Band Festival Committee provides travel stipends to each participating band. The schools that marched in this years parade represent more than 30 communities with a history of participation in the festival parade. Award Winners: Marching Bands Middle School -- Clear Lake Middle School, first place; West Lake Middle School, second place Class 1A -- Northwood Kensett High School, first place; Rudd Rockford Marble Rock High School, second place Class 2A -- Lake Mills High School, first place; Garner-Hayfield-Ventura, second place; Central Springs, third place Class 3A -- Clear Lake High School, first place; Forest City High School, second place Parade Awards Grand Marshal Award, presented to the overall winner with the best use of the festival theme Forward, March -- Mason City Youth Task Force, first place; Smithfield, second place; and Prairie Ridge, third place. Mr. Toot Award, presented to the entry with the most originality, artistic quality, and well-crafted design based on a theme of their choice -- First United Methodist Church, first place; NI Vietnam Veterans, second place; and MacNider Art Museum, third place. The North Iowa Band Festival is sponsored each year by the Mason City Chamber of Commerce to honor of the regions musical heritage. Corporate donations and the volunteer efforts enable the Chamber to offer the festival as a free family-friendly event for all North Iowans to enjoy. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Bigger Problems Narrowly speaking, the pension issue itself still may be fixable; its effectively a policy transmission problem. Theres enough money floating around, at least for the time being; China just needs to iron out major kinks in the system to get the funds where theyre needed. Toward this end, it has initiated some Hukou reforms, including new measures making it somewhat easier for migrant workers to register in second- and third-tier cities (where the government wants more workers to move anyway). Its gradually doing away with family planning controls. Its forcing state-owned enterprises to transfer 10 percent of their shares to government pension funds, while also allowing the funds to start investing overseas. Meanwhile, China has been taking steps toward more streamlined, centralized pension systems. On Jan. 1, for example, it created a national contributions pool and transferred responsibility for collections away from local governments, paving the way for the provincial transfers announced last week. To soothe disaffected PLA veterans, it launched a national-level veterans affairs administration last year. Chinas situation is not entirely unique. U.S. Social Security is likewise facing a funding shortfall stemming, in part, from demographics. And in nearly every country, wealthier regions are forced to subsidize livelihoods in poorer ones. In 2015, New York received 83 cents for every dollar its taxpayers sent to Washington, while Mississippi got $2.13. But two broader challenges highlighted by the pension crisis are particularly intractable in China. One is the central governments historical struggle to keep the wealthier coastal regions aligned with the rest of China one of the countrys core geopolitical imperatives. The more acute coast-interior disparities become, the more wealth the coasts will be asked to transfer to the interior, and the more coastal resistance to Beijings writ theres likely to be . The second is the scope of the grand bargain the Communist Party has made with the Chinese public and the extraordinary degree of risk embedded in this social contract. Essentially, Beijing gets full rights to micromanage the Chinese people. In exchange, it takes on full responsibility for the welfare of the people. In other words, when the state demanded they do so, hundreds of millions of Chinese citizens gave up the right to have multiple children who, in keeping with core Chinese values, would see to their care in their golden years. Now, theyre finding the state may force them to spend these years destitute and alone. When Beijing scaled back the state sector, hundreds of millions left the interior to work in manufacturing on the coasts, propelling China toward untold wealth and global influence. Now, theyre finding that the state has neglected to make those whove gotten rich off their labor contribute their share to the social safety net and that Hukou, a system designed for social control, is preventing them from getting whats theirs. Risky Bargain Beijing can make a persuasive enough case that an economic slowdown is inevitable due to forces beyond its control. Its capable of lowering public expectations of infinite growth and deflecting the responsibility of party mismanagement for the hard times to come. Xi and other senior leaders are constantly warning that China is not yet rich, that the project of national rejuvenation means constant preparation for hard times ahead. But Beijing cannot easily explain away problems plainly rooted in policy myopia, corruption and systemic dysfunction. And polls routinely show that what Chinese people want most from the party is not a headlong pursuit of national prosperity, but rather clean and responsive governance tailored to preserving the grand bargain. This is why, under Xi, Beijings emphasis has shifted toward things like quality growth, pollution, corruption and social welfare. Xi has approached these sorts of issues with a heavy hand, focusing primarily on purifying the system of corrupt and recalcitrant elements. This is, in part, because so many other factors darkening Chinas outlook are outside his control. He also presumably realizes that, as Chinas external woes intensify, the party will need to prove that the power it has appropriated from the people is being wielded in service of their demands. Ironically, though, this has meant strengthening the role of what Beijing can most directly control the machinery of the state and further narrowing space for political, civil and economic freedoms . Under Xi, Beijing has been strengthening state-owned enterprises, centralizing the bureaucracy, embedding party watchdogs at private firms and exploring new ways to supervise society . This, in turn, means the state is implicitly agreeing to shoulder ever more responsibility for the publics welfare and more of the publics ire when it falls short. Are you sure you want to delete this post? Living in a state with no sales tax is great for many reasons, but one thing I understand is that my state government will still find a way to keep the lights on and pay the services the people of New Hampshire expect. That is why I get frustrated when I see license plates from neighboring states that cross the border to take advantage of system while being able to avoid contributing to our state in the same way everyone who lives here does. This is why I think that states with no sales tax should only have that option for people who live in that state. I find a system that allows people to cross an invisible line in order to avoid paying their fair share inherently unfair to the people who reside in the state that pay their taxes in other ways. An easy way to make this a reality is to require shoppers to show proof of residence before paying. We currently charge $10 for a non-driver ID card, but I think that should be reduced to zero. I'm interested to hear what people who live in "border" states think about this. Do you understand why people like me are frustrated that you take advantage of our tax laws or do you have no problem with the status quo? Grand Old Partisan honors William Buckingham, born this day of 1804. The savvy entrepreneur became a successful merchant. As a Whig, he served several terms as mayor of Norwich. He later became a Republican. In 1858, Buckingham defeated a pro-slavery Democrat for the governorship. He won seven more one-year terms. Outbreak of civil war, the patriotic Governor mortgaged his property to finance volunteer regiments. He wrote to President Lincoln offering to pay for anything state troops might lack. A regiment of African-American soldiers, the 29th Connecticut, was raised thanks to his initiative. In 1869, a grateful legislature elected him to the U.S. Senate. Here is a Video Version of this article on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3Hz3GMktwg0 Michael Zak is author of Back to Basics for the Republican Party, a history of GOP civil rights achievement. Each day, Michael Zak's grandoldpartisan YouTube channel and Grand Old Partisan blog celebrate more than sixteen decades of Republican heritage. And, see Speech Raves for audience feedback from his presentations in thirty-one states so far. He also wrote the 2005 Republican Freedom Calendar. Clarence Thomas cited Back to Basics for the Republican Party in a Supreme Court decision. Buy the book at Amazon See www.youtube.com/q?v=IzxKCiXc5Qc for a brief video of a Texas Republican praising Back to Basics for the Republican Party. "This is the most amazing book about politics that I have ever read. The Overview should be required reading for anyone with even a minor interest in government. The remainder is an enthralling history lesson that I will never forget. For years, we have all been misled about the true nature of the GOP. This is the real deal! Read it and be proud!" "Michael Zak wrote the definitive history of the GOP." "Back to Basics for the Republican Party is the most significant contribution to the Republican Party in the last twenty years apart from Ronald Reagan." "Back to Basics for the Republican Party is more important to our party now than ever before." and "one of the best books I ever read" 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 Experts call for actions as Nepals biodiversity faces imminent threats Nepal needs a credible assessment of its biodiversity, says one of the authors of a UN report that has warned of widespread extinction of the worlds species " " Synthetic marijuana is marketed as producing a high resembling that of natural marijuana, but increasing numbers of people are suffering side effects and ending up in emergency rooms. Chicago Tribune/TNS/Getty Images The contaminant in a deadly batch of synthetic marijuana that has killed three people and sent more than 100 to Illinois emergency rooms with bleeding eyes, ears, gums and noses, as well as symptoms including kidney failure, seizures, psychosis and catatonia, has been identified by toxicologists as rat poison. Most popularly known as Spice or K2, synthetic marijuana is often sold in sealed packages labeled with names like Matrix, Blue Giant, Mr. Nice Guy, Crazy Monkey, Scooby Snax, Black Mamba, Mojo and Annihilation (and about 600 other exotic monikers), then marketed to be smoked in leaf form, vaped in liquid form or brewed as a tea. Some packaging is misleadingly labeled as "incense" or "potpourri" and comes with a disclaimer saying it's not suitable for human consumption. Advertisement It produces a high falsely purported to be similar to real marijuana, so we know why people use this stuff, but what exactly is it? Also known as designer cannabinoids, synthetic marijuana is engineered by pseudo chemists in covert labs with no quality control or oversight. Using unknown chemicals in unknown concentrations that differ from batch to batch, these random man-made compounds, concocted by guesswork, permeate the final product with life-threatening toxins. These toxins can induce unpredictable symptoms like profuse bleeding caused by the highly lethal anticoagulant, or blood-thinner, brodifacoum, found in rat poison. "We are currently seeing people who are bleeding after using synthetic pot because of it being laced with a powerful and long acting rat poison," says Ziad Kazzi, M.D., medical toxicologist and emergency medicine physician at Emory University, in an email. "This has primarily occurred in Illinois, but we have reports from Indiana, Maryland, Missouri and Wisconsin according to the health departments and a recent communication by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)." Synthetic marijuana is by no means a substitute for actual marijuana. In fact, it's nothing like marijuana, or cannabis sativa, the herbaceous plant that grows in nature. Rather, fake weed gets the name synthetic marijuana because the man-made substances used to create it are loosely related chemically to tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the psychoactive ingredient found in pot. These spurious THC-like chemicals are sprayed onto dried plant material and chopped up herbs in a mixture of colors including brown, red, beige and cream. It can mimic the look and smell of marijuana, but buyer beware, lest you become a human guinea pig without informed consent, or worse, a corpse. "Synthetic pot is dangerous," says Kazzi. "It is not the natural THC that is found in plants. These dangerous chemicals are made in a lab and can have bad effects. Do not use synthetic pot! It is not what you think it is!" Now That's Flip-floppy Former speaker of the House, John A. Boehner, who in 2011 said that he was "unalterably opposed" to the legalization of marijuana, has had an aha moment and a change of heart. Stating that his thinking about marijuana has "evolved," the former Republican leader has joined the board of advisers of Acreage Holdings, a cannabis corporation that operates in 11 states. Several area events are on the receiving end of money from a pilot project from the Tourism Grant Program at the Montana Department of Commerce. The program awarded funds totaling $550,000 to help 44 communities across the state boost attendance at events to increase visitor spending. In Lewis and Clark County, five events have been awarded amounts that total nearly $29,000. The Townsend Fall Fest was awarded $15,000 to enhance festivities, scheduled for Oct. 4-6 this year. While the grant was written for extra advertising money, the amount will allow for so much more, said Laura Obert, chair of the 2019 festival. We will advertise in Townsend and the surrounding area and it will help us to fund the port-a-potties, which are very important," Obert said. "It would be a tragedy not to have them. Fall Fest attracts between 8,000 to 10,000 people and more than 100 vendors. With that many people in town for a festival that includes beer and brats, port-a-potty lines can be extreme. At least two dozen are necessary in the main area. Also that weekend is a car show, which requires another dozen port-a-potties down Main Street. Its a big festival, Obert said, Especially for a small town. This is the biggest annual fundraiser for Townsend Rotary. The money earned goes to area scholarships and projects. We are so grateful to the Department of Commerce and the governor for this, Obert said. This is quite a boost to our little town and our festival. Rotary heard about the grant through the Southwest Montana Tourism Region, working with the state Department of Commerce. This was a one-time program for events. The goal was to see if we could get applications from across the state, said Jan Stoddard, bureau chief at the Department of Commerce. Thats one of the most exciting things about this; we literally got applications from every part of the state and from the smallest communities to the largest ones. Stoddard explained there were three different areas applicants could apply for, or they could combine them. Advertising, to pull people from out of area; infrastructure, things that would enhance the quality of the event for the attendee, like port-a-potties and shuttles; and signage, trying to make it easier for people to find the venue and where to park, she said. Its all about trying to get more nonresidents and out-of-the-area participants and enhance the experience when people get there." The fifth annual Reeders Alley Block Party was awarded more than $3,000. The money came just in time, said Marisa Diaz-Waian, founder of Merlin CCC, which puts on the Reeders Alley Block Party, The party is June 8 and corresponds with the Governors Cup this year. It is amazing, Diaz-Waian said. That was the remaining chunk we needed to make this event what we think is going to be a big success. This is a big one for us partnering up with the Governors Cup and it was quite pricey to put this together. This is huge for us to make it over the hump. Now we can hit more markets than we would have otherwise. The grant will be used to cover a portion of the events logistics and marketing cost. Some of the money will go toward signage and some toward hospitality, including food for volunteers and musicians. The remainder will be used for marketing, like radio ads to broadcast in areas outside Helena, including Missoula and Bozeman, as well as printed ads to spread the word as far as possible. And general things, including port-a-potties. No amount is too small. Meadowlark Music Festival was awarded $742. We are thankful for the support from the Department of Commerce to begin to build infrastructure for this event, said Kiley Gage, Meadowlark Music Festival Steering Committee. We are looking forward to putting on another great festival for Helena on Sept. 7. Helenas Symphony Under the Stars received $7,600. We put in for the grant, didnt think we stood much of a chance, but we got it, said Scott Kall, Symphony Under the Stars project manager. The symphony event budget is around $125,000, however much of that is eaten up by the technical requirements for lights, sound and stage. All those things have to be rented and the staff that sets them up are paid. This grant will help allow some money to be directed elsewhere, Kall said. The funds will be used mostly between marketing and audience services for the event July 20. This is a huge shot in the arm for us, he said. It is in the top five amounts of individual donations. We like that the state thinks were worthy enough to be eligible for this. 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. The University of Montana's struggle with enrollment decline is acute, but the campus isn't alone in facing drops. On the other hand, the growth at Montana State University-Bozeman is bucking a national downward trend in undergraduates going to college. Last week, the Montana Board of Regents heard an update on enrollment across the Montana University System, and overall numbers have slipped since 2011 from 40,961 to a projected 36,364 for the 2019 fiscal year. The healthy upward trajectory in Bozeman is an exception. At MSU, enrollment has grown 29% since 2011, according to data from the Montana Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education. MSU also is the only four-year campus to have increased its resident population in the last decade, according to the Commissioner's Office. And its increase in out-of-state students is helping mask stagnation or declines at other campuses. John Thunstrom, information technology director for the Montana University System, told the regents the resident population reached a peak in the 2011 fiscal year but has been declining the last eight years. He attributed the drop to the recession, subsequent recovery, and decline in high school graduates. "There are several strategies that have been implemented or are in the process of being implemented across the state to increase that in-state enrollment," Thunstrom said. He said schools are working on retention and increasing their "capture rates" of high school graduates by collaborating with the Montana Office of Public Instruction. He said he anticipates the numbers of high school graduates will level up, although not at a steep pitch. "There's going to be a very slow recovery, but we've kind of reached the trough," Thunstrom said. A September 2018 story in The Hechinger Report described the national outlook for colleges and universities as "grim" and noted some institutions may face closures. The Hechinger Report describes itself as covering innovation and inequality in education with deep reporting. Hechinger noted regional four-year campuses serving local students were projected to lose more than 11% of enrollment from 2012 to 2029, but it also noted student demand could increase in mountain states such as Montana. UM has struggled with enrollment, losing 34% of its full time equivalent students since 2011, according to data from the Commissioner's Office. However, graduate enrollment has grown, and last summer, UM counted a 17% increase in enrollment compared to the previous summer, the highest number since 2014. UM anticipates an uptick this summer as well. Cathy Cole, vice president for enrollment and strategic communications, had estimated she could easily boost freshman enrollment in the fall 6% to 7% with some simple fixes prior to starting the job last summer. However, last week, she said trouble last fall with the software system that manages communication for UM was a serious setback requiring re-installation and months of work, and she projected flat freshman enrollment in fall 2019. A presentation she made in April to the UM budget committee noted the enrollment yield, or the number of admitted students who actually attend UM, had dropped 17% compared to five years ago. The report also highlighted the following: Over the past five years, the numbers of applicants, admitted students, and "matriculants," or those who end up attending UM, have dropped, with the last decreasing 25%, First-time freshman enrollment has declined at a rate of 2.3% since 2014, Transfer student enrollment has increased from 53.7% in 2014 to 56.5% in 2018, The total number of applicants at the mountain campus had fallen 7% compared to last year, but the number of nontraditional freshman who applied was up 14% and number admitted was up 33%, The total number of applicants at Missoula College was up 10%, and total admitted was up 13% compared to last year, In the past five years, most of the students enrolled at UM came from Montana, and The percentage of students from Montana has stayed "fairly consistent," but out-of-state recruitment has dropped 1.84%. The report also noted Cole had identified the counties in Montana with "best fit" students as well as counties in Oregon and Washington that hold the most opportunities for UM. In an interview, Cole also said UM has an international recruiter in Asia, which has the most potential for growth abroad, and the president and provost both will visit China and Japan in the fall. "Asia is always a great place to recruit. Students there want to have an American education," Cole said. She and other UM officials have been overhauling the way they do outreach and orientation for students. Communications director Paula Short also said UM is working on improving its ability to make projections throughout the year. Housing applications compared to previous years have been one indicator UM tracks. As of last week, all told 131 fewer students had registered for housing this year to date compared to last year, with 1,309 housing applications submitted in all as of last week. However, UM has been working to increase its incoming class, and the number of new students this year had increased by 43, to 904, compared to the same time last year. I am very pleased and excited to see that we are up in new freshmen applications, said Sandy Curtis, director of UM Housing, in an email. Cole also noted a recruitment strategy that worked for her at another institution. If a student indicates interest in a particular major, UM has multiple people reach out, a dean, chair, faculty, alum, employer, and current student, and Cole said she and her team are creating marketing plans for every major at the undergraduate level. The community has been anxious to see growth at UM because the strength of the campus affects Missoula's economy. Cole has said it takes time to turn such a large ship, and President Seth Bodnar has said the campus is making steady progress. An expert cited in The Hechinger Report story from September described future high school students who are headed to college as "a hot commodity," and the story noted projected declines in student numbers will stress budgets across the country. "Regional colleges will be under pressure to cut liberal arts courses and expand professional programs, such as law enforcement, that students feel will translate into a good-paying job," the story said. It also noted more colleges will launch "student success" initiatives. UM already has made cuts to the liberal arts and it is focusing on community partnerships to build career opportunities. The Missoula flagship's top priority for action is to "place student success at the center of all we do." Also, the regents last week heard about a new project to drive student achievement across the university system, with a pilot to start at three campuses, UM, Helena College and MSU-Billings. Please sign up on Missoulian.com to subscribe to Under the M, the weekly email about the University of Montana and higher education news in Montana. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 WHITEFISH The federal government will play a key role in training and creating opportunities for tomorrows workforce, Gov. Steve Bullock said here Tuesday. On the sidelines of the National Governors Associations annual solutions summit, he told the Missoulian that here in Montana, and in a lot of the 32 states that are here, what we see is that we've got to train people to get them credentials along the way, and the federal government hasn't been as quick to respond as it should. The summit was part of Bullocks yearlong tenure as chair of the National Governors Association. His Chairs Initiative, dubbed Good Jobs for All Americans, focuses on state governments role in addressing workforce challenges. At Tuesdays conference, Bullock joined roughly 80 representatives of state and territorial governments, businesses and other organizations, to discuss workforce-related issues and finalize a Governors Guide on addressing these challenges. The summit came close on the heels of his presidential campaign announcement last week, when Bullock joined a crowded field of Democratic candidates, and stressed his accomplishments in campaign finance reform. The Whitefish jobs summit wasn't a campaign event, and Bullock's candidacy only drew a few, ribbing references from attendees. But when Bullock discussed the need for creating high-quality jobs throughout the country, he hit the same notes as his campaign No one should have to leave their community or their school or their place of worship just to find a good job, Bullock told the guests, using almost the exact line with which he launched his campaign in Helena. Certainly the private sector has to do a significant share more to provide good jobs and pathways for workers, but we also can't expect them to do it all alone. As governors and as state leaders, we really are well-positioned to bring together employers, educators and workers to build that new infrastructure for jobs today and jobs of the future. To that end, he said later, the federal government will also need to step up. I think the federal government can play a critical role. Apprenticeships and work-based learning is an example. Federal grant dollars, he said, had helped Montana expand opportunities for its workers. But in existing programs, Bullock sees too much of a focus on traditional, four-year higher education, when in todays world, its not always about a degree. Sometimes, its shorter-term programs. Asked by the Missoulian how, if elected, he would use presidential authority to meet the nations workforce needs, Bullock said, in part its how you prioritize your partnerships between the federal (government) and the state, but its also, Are we investing federal dollars to give everybody a shot? and we don't always do that. He identified trade adjustment assistance, or retraining for workers whose jobs are outsourced, as one area in need of more investment. Bullock also sees a need for more infrastructure spending. Our state was actually developed through rural electrification. I think it would be about $61 billion to actually make sure that high speed (internet) connectivity was in every home across the country. That's an area where the federal government really can facilitate opportunities for people at the state (level), too. Extracting that kind of investment todays Congress will be difficult, he acknowledged. Nothing can get done necessarily in D.C. and that's frustrating. The idea that we would invest in rural broadband ought not to be a partisan issue. Partisanship isnt the only obstacle Bullock sees to creating tomorrows jobs. In an afternoon discussion with Internet entrepreneur Steve Case, the governor conceded that Montanas low population and vast territory could also deter investment. What, in part, weve tried to do (is) recognizing that and say there's some things that government can do to make up. As one example of that approach, he cited the All-In-Missoula technology consultant trainee program. Technology consulting company Cognizant ATG partnered with the University of Montana/Missoula College to train 26 students for jobs at its Missoula center, then hired all of them upon graduation. The company also separately received a $255,000 grant from the Montana Department of Commerce for new hires, unrelated to the All-in-Missoula program. The bulk of Tuesdays conference focused on solutions like these, and ways that state, corporate and nonprofit entities could work together to meet workforce needs. Bullock and Case, currently the CEO of Washington, D.C.-based technology firm Revolution, discussed these topics for most of their allotted hour. (Federal Election Commission filings show that in the 2018 election cycle, Case gave $2,700 to the congressional campaign of Rep. John Delaney, D-Md., now one of Bullocks primary opponents). But Case couldnt resist bringing up the campaign, calling him President Bullock at one point and pointing out at another that the governor had recently embarked on his own, high-profile job search. Amid widespread chuckling, the governor replied, Yeah, thats thats for later. Love 0 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Collins told Lewis and Clark County Justice of the Peace Mike Swingley that his foot slipped off the brake but he believed he caught it before hitting the vehicle in front of him. Not believing he had struck the vehicle, he drove off but was then flagged down by the other driver who honked at him and they pulled into a parking lot. There, he observed damage to the other vehicle consisting of "two small black circles," he said. Collins was fined $50 plus a $35 surcharge for careless driving. No trial date has been set on the remaining charge. Both charges are misdemeanors. Kimberly Doherty, a 35-year-old Butte woman, reported a "hit-and-run" crash around 6:42 p.m. May 20. Doherty told Helena police she was driving southbound on Last Chance Gulch before stopping to turn left onto Lyndale Avenue, when she was struck from behind by a vehicle driven by Collins. Doherty told police she pulled over as Collins continued west on Lyndale. She later told the Independent Record she followed him while honking her horn, and they both pulled into the Van's Thriftway parking lot in the 300 block of Euclid Avenue. Collins provided his business card to Doherty and then left, police reported. Doherty told the Independent Record she waited in the Van's parking lot for around an hour before Helena police officers arrived to take her statement. Police met with Collins later that night, and the case was forwarded to the Lewis and Clark County Attorney's Office due to a conflict of interest with the Helena City Attorney's Office. Collins released a statement Friday afternoon that gave his version of the incident. "On the evening of May 20th (I) made a mistake. I was at the stop light at Euclid and Last Chance, when I accidentally nudged the back of a car that was stopped in front of me. The contact was so light that I did not realize I had made contact with the other vehicle," Collins wrote. Collins said the other driver honked at him to flag him down, and they both pulled into the Van's parking lot. "I gave her my card and told her I would pay for any damage to the vehicle at any repair shop of her choice," Collins wrote. "I followed up with the woman whose car I damaged the next day to see if she had gotten a chance to assess the damage or book an appointment to repair her vehicle and she had not yet had a chance to book an appointment." Collins said he sat in the Van's parking lot and watched the other driver leave. Doherty told the Independent Record she remembers it differently. "I called after he gave me his business card, as he was driving out of the parking lot," Doherty said. "I said we had to call law enforcement and that we had to stay." Collins said he stood by his account when asked about the Doherty's version of events. Love 4 Funny 15 Wow 10 Sad 4 Angry 17 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. Miss Montanas epic flight from Missoula to England came to a jubilant end Tuesday at the Imperial War Museums Duxford Airfield, 55 miles north of London. The Museum of Mountain Flyings venerable DC-3 airplane, which left town on May 19, landed shortly before 8 a.m. Montana time. Backslaps, handshakes and a victorious "touchdown" signal by chief pilot Jeff Whitesell reflected the elation displayed on a Facebook video by project leader Eric Komberec. It was a hoot, said Bryan Douglass, the logistical director for Miss Montana to Normandy, on the phone from England. The short version: Really flawless. The plane performed without incident, everyone did well, we got lucky with some good weather and we were lucky enough to find a couple of pilots who could fly the thing. Komberec, Whitesell, Douglass and Art Dykstra took turns in the right seat on a trip that had the expected stops and starts across the stormy North Atlantic, at one point approaching the Arctic Circle over the weekend. The maintenance crew of Randy and Crystal Schonemann rounded out the six-member expedition. The trip across the United States and North Atlantic ended on the 10th day, after most but not all the other 14 planes in the D-Day Squadron touched down on Britains best preserved World War II airfield. Duxford will be the base of operations for the next week. When all 35 or so of the World War II-era warbirds gather at Duxford, it'll be the largest number of Douglas C-47 Skytrain aircraft in one location since the war. Mass parachute jumps and flight displays are slated for June 4 and the morning of June 5 ahead of the historic flight across the English Channel on June 5. Miss Montana and other Daks will drop commemorative paratroopers at Caen in Normandy to re-enact the initial Allied invasion 75 years ago on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Fifteen jumpers from Montana and elsewhere are certified to jump from Miss Montana, including three couples with military or Forest Service parachuting experience. An attraction at her U.S. and trans-oceanic stops in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canadas Baffin Island, Greenland, Iceland and Scotland, Miss Montana received an unexpected tribute as she approached Duxford. A lot of times you can ask for a low pass over the airfield before you land, but in this case we didnt, Douglass said. The tower offered it. They said, You can have a low pass if youd like. Itd be great for all the photographers we have down here. The Miss Montana crew parked the plane alongside others from the D-Day Squadron and drove to a rental house about 25 miles away near Cambridge. Other Montanans will be staying with them, including Komberecs wife Tia, their two children, and Skip Alderson, who'll be among Miss Montana's ground crew in Duxford. He piloted the same plane, N24320, for Johnson Flying Service on its last flight across the ocean in 1975, on what was reported to be a cricket-spraying job for Evergreen, which was in the process of buying Johnson. Theres not a lot that happens immediately with Miss Montana, Douglass said. Well have a couple of days of standing down. Weve got some laundry to take care of, and tomorrow morning were scheduled for a tour of Southwick. Southwick Village, on Englands southern shore above the naval base of Portsmouth, was Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhowers headquarters and the nerve center of Operation Overlord and the Allied D-Day invasion. The military base is rarely open to the public. Miss Montanas crew will hop aboard a different DC-3 to get there. Another D-Day Squadron plane, the Spirit of Benovia from California, also arrived Tuesday in Duxford. Still on their way, according to the D-Day Squadron Facebook page, are N18121 and Rendezvous With Destiny. Both landed safely in Reykjavik, Iceland, on Tuesday. A final plane, called Hap-Penstance, left Oakland, California, on Monday and made it to Rapid City, South Dakota. Kathryn Burnham, a British pilot, came to Missoula earlier in May to gain certification to fly the U.S. plane, which was a VIP transport for Hap Arnold, commander of the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II. Miss Montanas journey was not without its frets. Komberec said one of the most anxious moments was leaving Goose Bay in Newfoundland and Labrador not knowing if theyd have fuel when they got to Narsarsuag, Greenland. They said they sold out of gas and didnt have enough to provide us, he said. That, combined with 60-knot winds, convinced the crew Friday to fly farther north in Canada to remote Iqaluit on Baffin Island. From there they went to a different port in Greenland, Kangerlussuaq, and flew across the immense ice-capped expanses of Greenland in a direct line to Reyjavik, Iceland. Douglass said he'll long remember the sight from the air of musk oxen on the expanses of Greenland. Its just impossible to describe the vastness of that country. Impossible, Douglass said. I thought flying over the U.S. was big and vast, but it was nothing compared to Greenland. Theres just nothing there. Komberec and Douglass again lauded the efforts of all the volunteers, workers and financial supporters who made possible the resurrection of the 1944 DC-3 after it sat grounded in the Missoula aviation museum for 18 years. The effort started a year ago, and had its share of doubters. Were here, Douglass said. Its been great fun, and its about to get more fun. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A Montana Rail Link fuel depot under construction near Park City has neighbors concerned about water contamination and increased truck traffic. The eight-acre depot, designed to fill fuel trucks from parked rail cars loaded with diesel, is located to the west of Park City along Highway 10 beside a wetland and the Yellowstone River. The entire area rests atop a gravel bed that water flows through easily, said Clair Killebrew, a neighbor to the project. Shes worried that any fuel from the depot will quickly spread through the area if it percolates into the gravel. There are homes in the area. I know theyre not considering this a residential area because its in the country, but there are four homes, said Killebrew. Neighbors became aware of the project only recently when heavy machinery showed up on the site, which was once used for loading traction gravel onto winter road plows, Killebrew said. Theres minimal permitting for a fuel depot. The Department of Environmental Quality reviews the project for storm water control, essentially making sure the water draining off the paved or concrete surfaces is being controlled. Additionally, Rail Link is working with the local volunteer fire department and the Stillwater County Disaster and Emergency Services on how to respond to the depot if theres a fire. Rail tanker fires and the ability of local fire departments to manage them have received increased attention even since the oil trains began shipping crude from the Bakken and Alberta Tar Sands. MRL spokesperson Ross Lane said the fuel site is large enough to accommodate eight rail cars loaded with fuel and semi trucks driving up to the site to have tank trailers loaded with fuel. There will be scaffolding over the cars so crews can unload the fuel onto the trucks. The site will be illuminated. We dont expect to see more than 24 trucks per day, and that would be at full operating capacity, Lane said. Were looking at opening the facility late summer or early fall. The Park City depot will be similar to a tank farm built near Logan in 2007, Lane said. That facility is operated by CHS. Rail Link is building the Park City site for a customer, Lane said, but he declined to identify who would be using it. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 5 Since 1964, the Columbia River Treaty (CRT) has played a key role in governing river flows and management priorities in the transboundary Columbia River Basin. Since last May, the federal governments of the U.S. and Canada have been negotiating a new deal for the CRT, which will help direct the basins future. The discussion surrounding this negotiation and who gets to participate reveals what has changed in the last 55 years and what remains the same. When the original treaty was negotiated, the U.S. and Canada chose to disregard the health of ecosystems and fish populations. Instead, they created a treaty, which manages river flows solely to maximize hydropower generation and provide conservative flood control for downstream communities. They also chose not to involve or consult any of the basins Indigenous nations in the process. Today, both the U.S. and Canada have accepted in principle that the renegotiated treaty must hold ecosystem function as a coequal purpose alongside hydropower and flood control. This is a sign of real progress. To the contrary, involvement of Indigenous nations has been reminiscent of the treatys exclusionary past. On both sides of the border, Indigenous nations participated heavily in the review processes leading up to the renegotiation. So, it came as a shock when the U.S. and Canadian governments announced last May that Indigenous nations would be excluded from the negotiations. However, citing their renewed commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples for historic and ongoing wrongs, on April 26 the Canadian government announced a reversal of their prior decision. The three First Nations on the Canadian side of the basin will now have official observer status in the negotiating sessions. The U.S. has an ethical obligation to follow suit by inviting the 15 tribes on the American side of the basin to join the negotiating sessions as official observers, alongside their Canadian counterparts. Writing about the ongoing legacy of African American slavery and oppression in the U.S., black American scholar Ta-Nehisi Coates writes, until we reckon with our compounding moral debts, America will never be whole. The same is true for our moral debt to the original stewards of the land on which we now live. Until Indigenous nations are actually involved as sovereigns and not merely consulted like stakeholders, the legal and moral integrity of our decisions about the land and water we share will not stand the test of time. As Grand Chief Stewart Phillip of the Okanagan Nation Alliance said in a statement, while certainly overdue, this was a courageous decision on Canadas part. In a land where Indigenous voices and human rights have been systematically suppressed for centuries and where governments are still failing to fully uphold their commitments to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, inviting Indigenous nations into the conversation about our shared future in this place is a radical move. Since 2008, Canada has been trying to "make itself whole" through a process known as "reconciliation," whose goal is to honestly and openly reckon with its history of attempted cultural genocide against Indigenous peoples through the Indian Residential School System it operated until 1996. Though many fewer Americans seem to be aware of it, the U.S. has a very similar history. But on this side of the border, we as a people have not yet attempted to reckon with this legacy in the same way. Shamefully, our governments have mostly waited to act until forced to do so by court orders such as the 1974 Boldt decision, which recognized native treaty rights to co-manage Northwest fisheries. The current renegotiation of the Columbia River Treaty is an opportunity for us as Americans to be courageous. We need courage to see the truth of our own history. We need courage to admit when weve made a mistake. And we need courage to invite our neighbors who have cared for this land since time immemorial to join us in figuring out how we may all thrive here together in our common future. As they continue to hold negotiating sessions, our CRT negotiators stand on the frontlines of Columbia Basin and American history. We must encourage them to follow Canadas lead in charting a better path forward towards political, ecological and social wholeness for us all native and nonnative neighbors alike. An American citizen living on both sides of the border, Graeme Lee Rowlands is a published researcher and educator who studied at Quest University Canada in Squamish, British Columbia. He also serves as the program coordinator of the Columbia River Field School and has traveled the entire length of the Columbia River by bicycle, canoe and kayak to learn directly from people and place. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 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. Natural resource professionals and conservation organizations are invited to a one-day workshop teaching youth about aquatic invasive species. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and Montana Department of Natural Resources are co-hosting three workshops in June. Workshops will be held in Kalispell on June 21, Billings on June 25 and in Butte on June 27. The workshops are designed to provide participants with the knowledge, techniques and tools needed to conduct aquatic invasive species programs for schools, field days or other events. The workshops include hands-on instruction on how to teach specific invasive species activities. Participants will receive an Invasive Species Teaching Tools Trunk, which contains everything needed to teach the activities on their own. The training is conducted by the Invasive Species Action Network. The workshops are free, but registration is required. To register contact Sarah Ganter at 518-727-8275 or email uppercolumbia3@gmail.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 SPRINGFIELD Vaping products, including electronic cigarettes, could not be used in indoor public settings under a bill approved by an Illinois Senate committee Tuesday. Under Senate Bill 1864, the devices would be treated the same as tobacco products when it comes to using them indoors in public areas. Sen. Terry Link, D-Waukegan, said he wants to combat the increasing use of e-cigarettes by school age children. "We are at a stage where we need to pass this. We need to put it in Smoke Free Illinois," Link said. "We have an epidemic of problems in schools today that need to be rectified. I do not want this to linger around for another year." Jake Butcher of the Smoke Free Alternatives Coalition of Illinois said his organization tried to work out a compromise where e-cigarettes could be used indoors at the shops that sell them so customers would have a chance to try the product. However, Link said anti-smoking proponents were against the idea and he was unable to work out a compromise. He said, though, that he was willing to work over the summer on a follow-up bill that could address the issue. Craig Kitson of 9-1-1 Vapor said e-cigarettes are unfairly linked with heavy metals in the vapor. "The damage done by this fear-induced media craze has most certainly caused many to forever be against vapor products," he said. "The Smoke Free Act is about protecting others from the dangers of combustible tobacco. Vapor products do not contain smoke." However, Kathy Drea of the American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest said the Food and Drug Administration has classified e-cigarettes as tobacco products. Asked if there is tobacco in the products, Drea said, "nicotine is derived from tobacco." Link said that e-cigarettes "get you off of smoking, but it doesn't get you off of nicotine. We've got a crisis in schools and we need to do something. Kids start with these and move on to other things." Drea also said that unlike tobacco stores that are heavily regulated, there are no regulations in place for the e-cigarette businesses. The proposal was approved by the Senate Public Health Committee, but only after Sen. Patricia Van Pelt, D-Chicago, changed her vote to get the issue to the Senate floor. She did not pledge to support it during a floor vote, though. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 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 Binod Ghimire covers parliamentary affairs and human rights for The Kathmandu Post. Since joining the Post in 2010, he has reported primarily on social issues, focusing on education and transitional justice. 28 May.--There is a chance of escape, or at any rate of being able to send word home. A band of Szgany have come to the castle, and are encamped in the courtyard. These are gipsies. I have notes of them in my book. They are peculiar to this part of the world, though allied to the ordinary gipsies all the world over. There are thousands of them in Hungary and Transylvania, who are almost outside all law. They attach themselves as a rule to some great noble or boyar, and call themselves by his name. They are fearless and without religion, save superstition, and they talk only their own varieties of the Romany tongue. I shall write some letters home, and shall try to get them to have them posted. I have already spoken to them through my window to begin acquaintanceship. They took their hats off and made obeisance and many signs, which however, I could not understand any more than I could their spoken language. . . I have written the letters. Mina's is in shorthand, and I simply ask Mr. Hawkins to communicate with her. To her I have explained my situation, but without the horrors which I may only surmise. It would shock and frighten her to death were I to expose my heart to her. Should the letters not carry, then the Count shall not yet know my secret or the extent of my knowledge. . . I have given the letters. I threw them through the bars of my window with a gold piece, and made what signs I could to have them posted. The man who took them pressed them to his heart and bowed, and then put them in his cap. I could do no more. I stole back to the study, and began to read. As the Count did not come in, I have written here. . . The Count has come. He sat down beside me, and said in his smoothest voice as he opened two letters, "The Szgany has given me these, of which, though I know not whence they come, I shall, of course, take care. See!"--He must have looked at it.--"One is from you, and to my friend Peter Hawkins. The other,"--here he caught sight of the strange symbols as he opened the envelope, and the dark look came into his face, and his eyes blazed wickedly,--"The other is a vile thing, an outrage upon friendship and hospitality! It is not signed. Well! So it cannot matter to us."And he calmly held letter and envelope in the flame of the lamp till they were consumed. Then he went on, "The letter to Hawkins, that I shall, of course send on, since it is yours. Your letters are sacred to me. Your pardon, my friend, that unknowingly I did break the seal. Will you not cover it again?" He held out the letter to me, and with a courteous bow handed me a clean envelope. I could only redirect it and hand it to him in silence. When he went out of the room I could hear the key turn softly. A minute later I went over and tried it, and the door was locked. When, an hour or two after, the Count came quietly into the room, his coming awakened me, for I had gone to sleep on the sofa. He was very courteous and very cheery in his manner, and seeing that I had been sleeping, he said, "So, my friend, you are tired? Get to bed. There is the surest rest. I may not have the pleasure of talk tonight, since there are many labours to me, but you will sleep, I pray." I passed to my room and went to bed, and, strange to say, slept without dreaming. Despair has its own calms. In fact, one might conclude from long-term reporting on the matter that the recent firings are based not on a serious commitment to reform but rather on an effort to preempt large-scale public protests in the wake of the latest insult to a minority of the viewing audience. As just one example of this phenomenon, Khuzestan Province was rocked by weeks of protests last year after the airing of a childrens television segment, ostensibly on the topic of cultural diversity, which seemed to erase the Arab identity of the region. But regardless of current trends in the treatment of religious and ethnic minority groups by Iranian state media, the regime itself is widely recognized as being in the midst of a long-term crackdown on such groups, as it works to reaffirm a hardline identity in the face of challenges from both at home and abroad. In one of the latest examples of escalating assaults on religious groups that are supposedly subject to official toleration, IranWire reported on Saturday that regime authorities had forced the closure of an Assyrian Christian church, despite the fact that it had remained in compliance with the various restrictions previously placed upon it. The report quotes a source familiar with the incident as saying, A large number of agents entered our church compound and changed all the locks on the doors, removed the cross from the churchs high tower, installed some monitoring instruments and started to threaten and force our custodian to leave his place inside the compound immediately. The church in question has stood for roughly a century and was legally confiscated in 2011, but was permitted to remain the site of Christian services, provided that they were conducted only in the Assyrian language. Although converting from Islam to any other religion is illegal in the Islamic Republic, traditional communities of adherents to minority faiths are afforded rights under the constitution. However, in practice these rights are routinely curtailed, as evidenced by a wide variety of raids and forced closures. Increasingly, these sorts of actions are being carried out not only against easily recognizable religious groups but also against any social or cultural gatherings that are deemed threatening to the nations theocratic identity. For one recent example, the BBC reported last week upon the arrest of 30 individuals who were participating in a yoga class. Authorities identified the class as violating religious strictures on multiple counts, as by accommodating both women and men while allowing them to exercise in inappropriate clothing. The BBC report noted that the Latin dance-based exercise known as Zumba was made illegal in 2017. But it also pointed out that as the regimes restrictions on popular youth activities and minority cultural expressions expand, so too does the public backlash against those restrictions. It quoted one Iranian Twitter user as saying, An establishment that finds even yoga harmful does not need the USS Abraham Lincoln warship to end its existence. The White House recently ordered the accelerated deployment of that aircraft carrier to the Persian Gulf, in response to apparent threats of attack from Iranian forces or Iran-backed militant groups in the surrounding region. But President Donald Trump insists that he is not angling for war, and some observers have speculated that the long-term ambition of his administration is to promote domestic revolt along the lines of the nationwide uprising that occurred in late 2017 and early 2018. Maryam Rajavi, the leader of the Peoples Mojahedin Organization of Iran, said in the aftermath of that uprising that it could spark a year full of uprisings leading to the final victory of a cosmopolitan and democratic Iranian populous over a politically and culturally repressive, theocratic regime. Since Bolton declared early in May that an aircraft carrier group would be making an accelerated deployment to the Persian Gulf, President Trump and others have taken care to insist that such measures are intended only to deter against threats from the Islamic Republic. The carrier deployment was reportedly ordered in response to credible intelligence regarding the posture of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its proxy groups outside Irans borders. But an expanded US military presence has also been widely regarded as part of the administrations declared strategy of maximum pressure on Irans theocratic regime. As Secretary of State Mike Pompeo explained in his first major foreign policy speech one year ago, the purpose of that pressure was to compel the regime to make a dozen significant changes to its behavior and to thereby act like a normal country. However, Trumps latest remarks, delivered in a joint news conference during a visit with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, seemed to draw back from that broad-minded goal. Instead, Trump returned to the sort of narrow focus upon the issue of Irans nuclear program that had characterized the policies of his predecessor. Nevertheless, Trump continued to assail the nuclear agreement that was negotiated with Iran by then-President Barrack Obama and five other world powers in 2015. While campaigning for office, Trump promised to withdraw from what he called the worst deal ever, and he followed through on this promise last May, setting the stage for the re-imposition of sanctions that had been suspended under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. This took place in two stages in August and November, effectively starting a process of escalation that is ongoing today, but is regarded by the White House as part of a successful campaign to compel Tehran toward compromise of negotiation. However, a number of commentators and Middle East experts have speculated that the actual purpose of that campaign was to create the conditions for regime change. In past speeches, President Trump himself has lent some credence to that notion, and more specifically to the notion that his administration hoped to use economic and diplomatic pressure to weaken the regime and encourage domestic activism in support of a new Iranian government. For instance, in an address to the United Nations General Assembly last year, Trump called attention to a nationwide uprising that began in the final days of 2017. In so doing, he also described the Iranian people as the leading victims of the regimes terrorist proclivities, and he proclaimed that the US stands with those people in their struggle for freedom. Such statements seemed to hint at general agreement between the president and his arguably more hawkish officials, like Bolton and Pompeo, even if there was disagreement over the precise means by which an agreed-upon outcome would be achieved. But with Mondays press conference, Trump seemed to draw back from the subtle endorsement of regime change, as well as from equivalent emphasis on nuclear and non-nuclear issues. After suggesting that Tehran would like to make a deal and praising the country for its economic potential, the president went so far as to say that that potential could be realized with the same leadership as is currently in place. This comment seemed to reflect the belief that the existing regime is on the verge of complying with the various demands laid out by the Secretary of State last year. And in this sense, the president did not undermine his own past criticisms of the Islamic Republic. To the contrary, he stated that Iranian and Iran-backed forces had been behind every single major attack in the region at the time that he took office. Now theyre pulling back, he said, because theyve got serious economic problems stemming in large part from re-imposed and expanded sanctions. The recent arrival in the Persian Gulf of the USS Abraham Lincoln may have supported the perception that Iran has been cowed by an assertive American policy. The aircraft carriers transit through the Strait of Hormuz was described as the first instance in months of an American vessel passing Iranian territory without being harassed by the naval forces of the IRGC. But on the other hand, Iranian officials have received an abundance of verbal harassment from the IRGC and Iranian officials, to say nothing of the material threats that spurred the Lincolns arrival in the first place. These threats continue to the present day, even in the face of Trumps optimism. Visiting Baghdad on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif appeared engaged in efforts to elicit support from regional powers over which it wields influence, while warning off those who maintain close alliances with the United States. As part of that effort, Zarif promised that Tehran would respond to any aggression, whether military or economic. Days earlier, he responded to harsh words from President Trump by declaring that Iran will see the end of the American leader, whom he described as befitting the terrorist label. For their part, Zarifs hosts, including the Iraqi prime minister and foreign minister, expressed their support for Irans position. This will no doubt be met with alarm by those who remain skeptical about the Iranian regimes forthcoming response to American pressure. After all, numerous reports have warned of the danger that Irans regional proxies could pose to American assets in the event that hostilities break out. And other reports have emphasized the rising levels of influence that such proxies in Iraq wield within the national government. At the same time, President Trumps optimism may be justified by evidence that Irans influence over those proxies is diminishing in turn. Last week, an article in the Washington Post explained that parts of Irans regional militant network are already more than willing to ignore what Iran tells them to do. And there are signs that that tendency is growing even stronger. The Palestinian terrorist group Islamic Jihad, for instance, recently declared that despite Tehrans backing, it will not be drawn into any future war between the Islamic Republic and the US. As the regime has felt the bite of US-led sanctions, it has reportedly been less able to provide continuous financing to this and other foreign entities, like Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Palestine. These groups have in turn adopted austerity measures as well as appealing to their public supporters for additional funds. Similar phenomena will likely be observed in Iraq, especially considering that Iran-backed Shiite militias in that country face competition from persistent American influence and also from nationalist militias that oppose influence from both the US and the Islamic Republic. Prominent among these groups are the supporters of the Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. Reuters highlighted their influence on Friday, reporting that they had protested in the thousands against prospective Iraqi involvement in a developing conflict between the nations two leading sources of foreign influence. It was not immediately clear whether, by rejecting Baghdads involvement, the protesters also opposed certain officials offers to mediate between Iran and the US in an effort to calm the existing tensions. While hosting President Trump on Monday, the Japanese prime minister made a similar offer, anticipating his own visit to Tehran in the month ahead. In keeping with his newly dovish commentary on Iranian affairs, Trump eagerly embraced the offer. And while Trumps calls for negotiation have evidently been adequate to convince Irans ambassador to the UN, Majid Takht Ravanchi, that he appears not to want a war with Iran, Ravanchi still used an editorial in the Washington Post to accuse the White House of pursuing a contradictory strategy through alternating threats and diplomatic appeals. Yet Trump himself has indicated that this may be exactly the point. Earlier in May, he said it may very well be a good thing that Iran doesnt know what to expect from his administration. His apparent disavowal of regime change will presumably add to the uncertainty, coming as it does, just two days after his bypassed Congress to expedite an eight billion dollar arms sale to Irans main regional rival, Saudi Arabia. Trumps explanation of the sale specifically cited Iranian threats against a steadfast US ally, as well as describing current tensions with the Islamic Republic as a national emergency. Secretary of State Pompeo added, in reference to the pending exportation of arms not only to the Saudis but also to the United Arab Emirates and Jordan: These sales will support our allies, enhance Middle East stability, and help these nations to deter and defend themselves from the Islamic Republic of Iran. While Iranian diplomatic figures like Ravanchi can be counted on to decry such measures as needless provocation, the countrys political and military establishment continues to rebuff the US presidents appeals for dialogue while further justifying his warnings about the threat of Iranian violence. IRGC deputy commander Ali Fadavi recently declared that negotiations with the US would be like negotiations with Satan. He went on to effectively encourage military confrontation with American forces by saying that they are at their weakest in history in West Asia. Meanwhile, General Morteza Qorbani, an advisor to Irans military command, spoke to state media about the arrival of new US warships in the region and said, If they commit the slightest stupidity, we will send these ships to the bottom of the sea along with their crew and planes using two missiles or two new secret weapons. But in an interview with CNN on Sunday, retired US Admiral William McRaven said in no uncertain terms that the US knows how to deal with threats and provocations from the Iranians at sea, and that Tehran knows better than to launch a strike, either directly or through proxies. Such statements seemingly reflect President Trumps confidence in the potential for American pressures to eventually compel the existing regime toward negotiation and reform perhaps even toward the sort of reform that makes long-anticipated regime change unnecessary or redundant. Since then, the Trump administrations own statements have arguably pointed to deliberate efforts at promote this same kind of uncertainty. On Thursday, the State Department missed a deadline set by the Democratic leaders of three House committees for clarification about the content of an annual arms control report that set the stage for ongoing escalations with the Islamic Republic. Critics of the report expressed concern that it painted Iran in the darkest light possible. But in various statements and strategic decisions since President Trump took office in January 2017, the White House has made it clear that it regards the darkest light as the most accurate description of the Iranian regime. Nevertheless, the administration has steadfastly denied any interest in war, and has at times lauded Irans domestic Resistance movement, thereby implying that an emerging strategy entails betting on domestically-driven regime change. Accordingly, the White House has downplayed most reports concerning plans and preparations for military deployment, but has embraced the general notion of making such resources available for the purposes of deterrence and support of local allies. On Thursday, the president and other US officials denied that the Pentagon had outlined plans for the deployment of between 5,000 and 10,000 military personnel to counter Iranian provocations. Previously, the White House was also challenged to deny reports of a broader strategic outline involving 120,000 troops. Trump commented upon those reports, however, by saying that if Iran insisted upon conflict, the US would bring an even larger force to bear. On Friday, the White House confirmed that military deployment to the Middle East would be taking place but also that it would be much smaller than any of the above-mentioned figures. Most media have identified the deployment as roughly 1,500. But Reuters, for instance, explained that only 900 new personnel would be taking up positions in the region, while 600 additional troops would have their current deployments extended for the purpose of manning Patriot missile batteries. Business Insider confirms that these missiles are part of the strategy to discourage any further aggression from the Iranian regime. The White House also reportedly plans to make available a fighter jet squadron and reconnaissance aircraft, as well as deploying an engineer element to further develop the defensive infrastructure that is currently maintained by US allies in the Gulf region. Katie Wheelbarger, the acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, gave members of the press their first on-the-record briefing since tensions between Iran and the US began to sharply escalate three weeks earlier. She noted that the latest moves were being made in response to intelligence similar to that which spurred the accelerated deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier group to the Persian Gulf. Rear Admiral Michael Gilday confirmed Wheelbargers account in his own remarks to the media. We have had multiple credible reports that Iranian proxy groups intend to attack US personnel in the Middle East, he said, adding that Irans actions and threats are troubling, escalatory and dangerous to our U.S. forces and those of our regional partners. Yet on both Thursday and Friday, President Trump delivered public statements expressing the belief that the Islamic Republic does not want to fight and should not be expected to make any further provocative moves in response to the latest American deployments. The presidents confidence may seem at odds with the statements of other US officials, but it may also be that the contrasting statements represent an expectation of divergence between the actions of the Iranian regime itself and the actions of the proxies that it generally finances and ostensibly controls. On Friday, NBC News was the latest outlet to publish an article on those proxies and their relationship to the strategies that would likely be employed by the Islamic Republic in the event of military conflict. The article described those groups, such as the Houthi rebels in Yemen and the Popular Defense Forces in Iraq, as wielding mines, missiles, and increasingly, political influence. It also credited Tehrans decentralized, region-wide network with giving the regime plausible deniability when ordering or merely encouraging attacks on US assets and allies. This effect has been seen in recent days, as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates suffered attacks on an airport, a pipeline, and tanker ships. The first two incidents drone strikes on Saudi territory were claimed by the Houthi but also credited to weaponry provided by the Iranians. No group has yet claimed the third attack, which damaged four tankers but resulted in no reported casualties. Yet suspicion naturally fell on Iran, and investigations into the incidents have seemingly backed up reflexive accusations. The Pentagon itself issued a statement on Friday affirming that it held the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to be directly responsible for the attacks. The remnants of exploded sea mines could apparently be traced to the IRGC, although the Pentagon declined to disclose its conclusions regarding the means by which those mines were delivered to their targets. This of course leaves open the possibility that the IRGC relied on local militant allies to carry out the attacks. But at the same time, some reports suggest that the coordination between the IRGC and these proxies may been diminishing, and that Trump expects this trend to continue as a result of the pressures his administration is exerting. As NBC pointed out: administration officials say a wave of punishing U.S. economic sanctions will deprive Iran of funds for its Shiite militias and force the regime to scale back its role in Syria, Iraq and Yemen. That report goes on to say that certain experts have yet to recognize evidence of Tehran pulling back from proxy activity, but its not clear whether this conclusion reflects ongoing trends in the financing of those groups. These trends were emphasized on Friday by Fox News, in a report that highlighted austerity measures by both Hamas and Hezbollah, as well as efforts by these groups to secure supplementary financing from their general body of supporters. The same report also notes that the regime of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad has experienced fuel shortages as a result of US sanctions on Irans vitally important oil industry. And the shrinking Iranian economy has even reportedly had an impact on the infrastructure of Irans repression and propaganda at home. According to Fox, the Iranian cyber command is running short on funds, as is the nations treasury as a whole. If these sorts of institutions diminish operations as a result of economic sanctions and diplomatic isolation, it may in turn diminish Tehrans ability to recruit for its foreign proxy groups or to communicate marching orders. At the same time, the potential weakening of domestic propaganda and constraints on free speech could create additional openings for a popular activist movement that has already spawned a multitude of protests in recent months. Maryam Rajavi, the leader of the Peoples Mojahedin Organization of Iran and the National Council of Resistance of Iran, described 2018 as a year full of uprisings after various localized protests had repeated the slogans of a nationwide uprising that was already established at the start of that January. The PMOI and NCRI have also warned about the growth of propaganda and disinformation campaigns aimed at discouraging international support for the countrys domestic Resistance. Despite the pending effects of US-led sanctions, there is considerable evidence that this campaign is still ongoing. For instance, Agence France-Presse reported on Friday that researchers at the University of Torontos Citizen Lab had uncovered a number of webpages created by an Iran-aligned group to masquerade as legitimate news and thereby spread falsehoods and amplify narratives critical of Saudi Arabia, the United States and Israel. It remains to be seen whether the persistence of this campaign will be undermined by its exposure or by the cumulative effects of economic sanctions. It also remains to be seen whether effects on the Iranian disinformation campaign will in turn have an effect upon the public discourse surrounding the threat of war. The Trump administration continues to insist that it is not on a war footing, and although it has now announced military deployment, this is far smaller than anything that had previously been discussed in mainstream media. Meanwhile, many of the allegations that the US bears responsibility for the present escalation stem from Tehran itself. On Thursday, for instance, President Hassan Rouhani proclaimed that Iran would not surrender to the US even if our land is bombed. But no threat of bombing had preceded this. Further undermining Irans efforts to blame the US for provocation, many public statements to this effect are clear provocations in their own right. Speaking to a group of student hardliners on Wednesday, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said, You young people should be assured that you will witness the demise of the enemies of humanity, meaning the degenerate American civilization, and the demise of Israel. Still, the regimes most recent actions do not necessarily reflect this bluster, and may reflect the success of American deterrence. Last week, the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Persian Gulf was reported as the first American passage through the Strait of Hormuz that was not accompanied by Iranian harassment. And on Friday, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran scaled back on threats to violate the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, making it clear to all parties caught in the middle of Iran-US tensions that the regime has no immediate plans to improve upon its centrifuges or enrich uranium to a higher purity than allowed under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. On Friday, Rear Adm. Michael Gilday, the director of the US Joint Staff, said that Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was responsible for this months attacks on four oil tankers off the UAE coast. The attack against the shipping in Fujairah, we attribute it to the IRGC, he said, adding that the US believed that limpet mines were used in the attacks. The ship attacks coincided with drone attacks by Houthi militias a proxy for Iran on oil installations in Saudi Arabia. The attacks appeared to be coordinated as part of a campaign by Iran in response to US sanctions on its oil exports. Tehran had earlier threatened to prevent other nations from exporting oil if the US continued its sanctions against Irans oil exports. The attacks and threats by the IRGC and its proxies also appeared to be a response to the US decision last month to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said at the time: This designation is a direct response to an outlaw regime and should surprise no one. The IRGC masquerades as a legitimate military organization, but none of us should be fooled. In response to the terrorist designation, IRGC leaders threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz and attack US forces in the region. The repeated threats and subsequent attacks on oil shipping and pipelines have been met with an increased readiness on the part of US forces and its allies in the Gulf. Joint exercises, close coordination and additional fresh troops from the US, in small numbers, were part of this increased readiness to safeguard the freedom of navigation and protect critical oil infrastructure. The posture of the US military and its allies remains defensive in nature and to deter future attacks. However, these precautionary moves have thrown Irans officials into a frenzy. While Foreign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarif and other diplomats have preached peace, IRGC leaders have continued their bellicose rhetoric against the US and its allies. In Lebanon, Hezbollah, another IRGC proxy, intensified its threats against the US and its Gulf partners. In Iraq, militias loyal to Iran started a campaign aimed at ending the US military presence in the country. More ominously, the Houthis intensified their missile and drone attacks against Saudi Arabia. After the twin attacks on the strategic East-West oil pipeline, they targeted the holy city of Makkah and the civilian airports of Najran and Jizan in southwestern Saudi Arabia. While those threats were intercepted and did not cause casualties, the increase in the number of attacks signals a new, higher level of coordination to serve Irans purposes in its faceoff with the US. Militias loyal to Iran also increased their attacks against civilians in Syria in support of Bashar Assads campaign to squash the rebellion against his hold on power. In every hot spot in the Middle East, IRGC-trained and funded militias have shown little or no interest in diplomacy or trying to find political solutions to complicated internal struggles. Instead, they rely on violence and whipping up religious hatred to fan the flames of various civil wars. It is for these reasons that Irans worn-out diplomatic cliches ring hollow. First, Iran has said that it has no interest in negotiating with the US directly or indirectly in response to President Donald Trumps calls for talks between the two countries. Second, Iran has rejected calls for revisiting the nuclear deal, while at the same time announcing that it was planning to violate some of its provisions. Third, it has rejected European and US calls to negotiate about its ballistic missile program and its regional activities. The US and Europe have repeatedly expressed genuine desire for negotiations to address real concerns about Irans conduct, including its ballistic missile program and destabilizing activities in the region conduct that frequently and flagrantly violates universally accepted rules of state action. Iran has declined to negotiate seriously, declaring, for example, that its missile program was off-limits or the alleged malign activities were lies spread by its enemies. Fourth, Iran has frustrated previous attempts at mending fences with its neighbors. More than two years ago, the Gulf Cooperation Council sent a letter to Iran proposing that the two sides agree on a set of principles that should govern their relationship. They included adherence to the UN-mandated principle of respect for national borders, political independence, and sovereignty of nations. They also included rejecting sectarianism and refraining from interfering in the internal affairs of neighboring countries. So, for Iranian diplomacy to be credible, Iran has to respond positively to previous calls for negotiations and it has to rein in the IRGC to stop it from spreading mischief in the region. This of course is far too achievable since as we have noticed during the past 40 years, the clerical regime ruling Iran is not exporting Terrorism and Extremism to the Region and the world out of a choice, these criminal actions are vital for a medieval Religious Fascism in 21st century since with this mechanism it has been trying desperately to divert attentions from its corrupt and suppressive regime. Source: Arab News 100 years ago, May 28, 1919 MATTOON -- Plans for the observance of Memorial Day have been completed. The parade, in charge of Col. S.D. Geary, will form at 1:30 o'clock at 15th Street and Charleston Avenue, and will move for Dodge Grove Cemetery where the program is to be carried out. On arrival at the cemetery the graves of the departed veterans are to be decorated by the Grand Army of the Republic men. At the cemetery, Benjamin Cox will read Gen. John A. Logan's order establishing Memorial Day and W.G. Sawin will read Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. The Memorial Day address will be delivered by former Judge W.G. Cochran of Sullivan. All returned soldiers and sailors of the late European War are asked to register for the occasion... CHARLESTON -- County Superintendent of Schools Minter is spending most of his time this week in his office on the second floor of the courthouse. There is still a large amount of work to be done in connection with the seventh and eighth grade examinations which were held in the county schools April 14-19. Many hundreds of papers were written during this time and the work of grading them has been a long and tedious task. It is possible this work will be finished next week, after which the students will be notified of their standing. 50 years ago, 1969 MATTOON -- The annual spring upsurge in employment increased total employment by 375 to a total of 24,825 in April, according to Rufus G. Morris, research analyst for the Mattoon office of the Illinois State Employment Service. Outdoor activities in construction and agriculture were the main factors in the increase. Unemployment last month dipped by 250. Total unemployment was 1,100... CHARLESTON -- The mayors of Mattoon, Charleston, Oakland and Greenup will be among a group of 200 Central Illinois residents who will travel to Washington next week to testify before the House public works subcommittee on appropriations. Requests for land acquisition money for the proposed Lincoln and Oakley reservoirs will be heard, and restoration of a $300,000 cut made in this year's appropriation will be requested by the Kaskaskia Valley Association... MATTOON -- The Mattoon Women's Bowling Association recently welcomed a new member to its Hall of Fame. Mrs. Dorothy Hoefler recently was inducted into the elite group of bowlers. Other current Hall of Fame members at the ceremony include Wanda Shirey, Mrs. Edna Foulke, Mrs. Lena McCall, Mrs. Mabel Crean, Mrs. Helen Moran, Mrs. Mary Johnson, Mrs. Corma Jane Taylor and Mrs. Betty Slugocki. 25 years ago, 1994 CHARLESTON -- More than 22,000 pounds of food will be distributed to Mattoons hungry residents today. A food outreach From the Heart by Voice of Believers Ministry in Charleston and Solid Rock Ministries of Oklahoma will be available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today at the old Pepsi plant, 12th Street and Moultrie Avenue, Mattoon. Two grocery bags filled with peanut butter, canned goods, beef jerky, candy, cereal, soup, toiletries and other items will be distributed to all families in need. Kevin Ashby, pastor of Voice of Believers, expects 300 to 400 families will be served CHARLESTON -- More than 90 Charleston High School students and chaperones recently spent a day in Chicago and saw the hit musical Phantom of the Opera. Members of the French Club and Performing Arts Club first went to Water Tower Place before going to see the show at the American Theater. An unexpected special memory of the day occurred on the trip home. When the CHS bus stopped for gas, a car across the street at a different gas station, began to smoke. Then it exploded and flames shot out from the hood. Police officers managed to extinguish the flames. 100 years ago, May 29, 1919 CHARLESTON -- Arthur Ault, aged 18, a young farm hand on the Fred McNutt farm north of Charleston, was seriously injured about 6 o'clock yesterday evening when a horse kicked him in the face. Both hoofs of the animal struck him in the chin and mouth, caving in that portion of his face and producing a fracture of the skull at the base of the brain. The injured young man was brought to the sanitarium, where his condition today is said to be serious. The young man's family lives in Jasper County... CHARLESTON -- Homer Popham, aged 28, a member of the American Expeditionary Force, met death at Busbonne, France, on May 1 while serving as a military policeman. Word was received from the War Department by the soldier's sister, Mrs. A.B. Allison of Charleston this morning. No details were given in the message. Popham was born in Pleasant Grove Township and up until the time of his induction into the service last June he lived on a farm near Lerna. He had been in France since July. He is survived by his widow and two children. There are also three brothers, Fred Popham and Clarence Popham, living near Charleston, and William Popham of Idaho. 50 years ago, 1969 MATTOON -- A group of community leaders, citing a wide range of problems in Mattoon, plans to push for the creation of a city-backed human relations commission. The 20 people, meeting last night in the U.S. Grant Motor Inn, were unanimous in their desire to have the Mattoon City Council create such a commission. The meeting was organized by the Service Action Setting Experience, nicknamed SASE, pronounced sassy. The members are affiliated with First United Methodist Church. Those who attended last night cited broad areas of concern, including poverty, housing, employment and race relations... CHARLESTON -- U.S. Sen. Charles Percy and his wife Lorraine will visit the Lincoln Heritage Trail Festival, which begins a four-day run today in Charleston. The Percys will travel to the site of the Lincoln statue southeast of Charleston and then attend the festival at the Coles County Fairgrounds. The statue dedication will be on Sunday to conclude the festival. Also, Vice President Spiro T. Agnew sent a telegram congratulating those involved in the festival and the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Park and statue. 25 years ago, 1994 Sunday. No paper. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 CHARLESTON -- A man serving a prison sentence for a Vermilion County weapons offense received more prison time when he pleaded guilty to a similar offense in Coles County. Demetrius L. Keller, 33, of Mattoon, pleaded guilty to charge of possession of a firearm by a felon. The gun was discovered when police responded to a report of Keller choking a woman, on July 4, 2017, according to case records. He also pleaded guilty to a domestic battery charge. With the agreement reached in his case, Keller was sentenced to four years in prison for the firearm conviction, which required a prison term of two to 10 years. The domestic battery charge was reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor and Keller's one-year jail sentence for that will run at the same time as his prison sentence. However, the agreement had his Coles County sentence added to the one he received from Vermilion County, a four-year term that began in February. Coles County Circuit Judge James Glenn sentenced Keller by accepting the terms of a plea agreement that Assistant State's Attorney Tom Bucher and Public Defender Anthony Ortega recommended. In other cases in court before Glenn recently: Blake D. McKay, 24, of Mattoon, pleaded guilty to a domestic battery charge accusing him of hitting a woman on Sept. 14. The charge was a felony because McKay has a previous domestic battery conviction. He was sentenced to four years in prison, as his record made him eligible for more than the typical three-year maximum for the offense Records show he was sentenced to probation in April of last year for a conviction for that offense in Shelby County. Keller also served prison time for a 2015 arson conviction in that county. In Coles County, misdemeanor bond violation charges accusing McKay of having contact with the woman in September were dismissed. Glenn accepted a plea agreement that prosecutor Jennifer Mudge and Assistant State's Attorney Stephanie Corum recommended. Luke O. Rogers, 28, of Charleston, was sentenced to 2 1/2 years of probation for having heroin on March 23 of last year. Rogers pleaded guilty to a drug possession charge in March and could have received a one- to six-year prison sentence. He was eligible for an extended prison term because of his record. Probation terms included an evaluation for substance abuse treatment and a requirement that Rogers follows its recommendations. He was also ordered to pay fines as his sentence for pleading guilty to a driving under the influence charge. Case records indicate the drugs were found during a traffic stop. Prosecutor Ralph Fowler and Corum recommended the plea agreement. Contact Dave Fopay at (217) 238-6858. Follow him on Twitter: @FopayDave Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 In educated and elite Nepali circles, a different kind of menstrual huts Young Nepali women living in cities may not be banished to sheds, but many of them are forced to adhere to a long list of menstrual restrictions. Post Illustration: Rabindra Manandhar VERMILION -- An 18-year-old was taken to jail for resisting arrest at a weekend party just south of the village that ended with the detention of more than 70 alleged underage drinkers, authorities said. The Edgar County Sheriff's Office reported on its Facebook page Monday that the individual became "agitated" and "out of control" while deputies were trying to manage the crowd at the party. Authorities said a fight allegedly ensued and deputies took the man into custody. Two of the deputies received minor injuries during the fight, the sheriff's office news release said. The suspect was arrested on a preliminary charge of resisting an officer. Preliminary charges are reviewed by the state's attorney's office. The news release said several other people became agitated and had to be restrained until they calmed down. Aside from 18-year-old, numerous others were taken to the Edgar County Sheriff's Office for processing. In all, 76 underage people were transported to the Edgar County facility for alcohol breath testing and released to their parents, authorities said. Law enforcement was initially called to an area south of Vermilion near the village cemetery around 11:53 p.m. to investigate a loud noise complaint in the area. The first deputy arrived at the location and found the roadway partially blocked with vehicles. The news release said the deputy noted a large crowd of people running away and entering a small garage close by. The deputy went to the garage and reportedly saw a large group of juveniles in the garage and a large amount of open and unopened alcoholic beverages, police said. Deputies found that two underage people were unconscious and needing medical attention, police said. They were taken from the scene by ambulance to Horizon Health in Paris. Another subject was treated on-scene and later transported to the Edgar County jail. The Edgar County Special Service Area Ambulance and Vermilion Fire Department responded to care for the medical emergencies. Two more deputies arrived to assist. Nine vehicles were towed from the roadway, police said. Rides Mass Transit was contacted and assisted with transporting the detainees to the jail. Paris Police Department officers assisted with crowd control at the Edgar County Sheriff's Office and making sure juveniles were released to their parents after breath testing. Reports will be forwarded to the Edgar County state's attorney for evaluation and possible charges, Edgar County police stated. "We hope this sends a strong message that illegal consumption and illegal possession of alcohol by people under 21 will not be tolerated," the news release read. Contact Jarad Jarmon at (217) 238-6839. Follow him on Twitter: @JJarmonReporter 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. The students were conducting research for AP English. They took a tour of the library and were given a demonstration on finding resources on the bookshelves and through the librarys online database. Illinois has a storied history of overreaching pending legislation. The latest example is a bill that would force publicly traded companies headquartered here to have corporate boards deemed "diverse" by the state. The House version would fine companies up to $100,000 if a board doesn't have one African American person and one woman. The Senate would add a requirement for a person who is a Latino. If this seems a little paint by numbers, it is. But the problem is not the goal. Boards of directors by and large are notoriously very male, very white and often of an older age bracket -- a kind of time warp to an earlier era. We know today that any organization is stronger if there's diversity -- in terms of gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, politics and ideas -- at all levels. Yet state lawmakers shouldn't be the ones dictating whatever their definition of "diversity" is. The Securities and Exchange Commission since 2009 has required companies to disclose whether diversity was considered by nominating committees for directors. The 2002 Sarbanes-Oxley Act, created in the wake of Enron, mandates independent directors. These rules allow for shareholders to push for change and diversity if they want. Customers can do the same when they buy products or services. That's the free market. Not only is a state-mandated quota based on gender or race seemingly in conflict with the equal protection clause of the U.S. Constitution, it's not practical. After all, a company can be legally incorporated in one state but headquartered in another. Take Delaware. About 60 percent of Fortune 500 companies are incorporated in the tiny state, attracted by a pro-business tax structure, the specialized Chancery Court devoted to corporate issues and an easy system for incorporating and avoiding liabilities. Apple, Google, General Motors and Coca-Cola are all technically Delaware companies, even though the home offices are in California, Detroit and Atlanta. Something called the "internal affairs doctrine" means they play by Delaware rules. This became an issue last year when California passed legislation requiring a certain ratio of women on company boards. Bloomberg pointed out the measure is on shaky ground from a constitutional standpoint. "Its not clear whether another state can, legally, tell them what to do," the story said. The lawmakers should focus on practical ways of making our state a better place to do business. Companies can just go somewhere else to see what that's like. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Gov. Pete Ricketts has signed the state's next two-year, $9.3 billion budget into law with no line-item vetoes. The Legislature sent Ricketts the budget on Tuesday, after at least two rounds survived filibusters from a small number of senators who said the state was spending too much money. Several wanted to reduce the increase the Appropriations Committee had provided the University of Nebraska system, but that effort didn't go far. A dozen senators voted against passing the mainline budget bill. University President Hank Bounds said Ricketts sent a strong message to the 52,000 students, their families and the people of Nebraska, with his signing of the budget, about the state's commitment to affordable, competitive higher education that grows the state's economy and quality of life. Ricketts touted the budget's increase to the Property Tax Credit Fund, which brought the total to more than $500 million over the two years of the budget. This budget controls spending to deliver $550 million in direct property tax relief over the next two years," he said. "It also includes over $2 billion in state aid to K-12 education as well as new resources for public safety initiatives." Mathers said the girls woke to the noise, and then yelling: "LPD." The intruders tied their hands and feet with zip ties and covered their mouths with duct tape in an upstairs bedroom, he said. Mathers said Lincoln police later would determine that 13 9mm gunshots had been fired from the top of the stairs into the basement. "One of the bullets struck Jessica Brandon," he said. Mathers said the robbers could be seen on the video leaving at 3:42 a.m., just three minutes after they'd arrived. Then, at 3:44 a.m., the video showed Robertson going back and forth from the house to the garage with a duffel bag and cooler he ultimately took to a shed. At the same time Robertson worked to hide nearly 3 pounds of marijuana and edibles and $85,800 in drug money, Mathers described how the girls did what they could to try to save Brandon. "Do you have any basic disagreement with what he said?" the judge asked Robertson after Mathers was done. Robertson, 36, answered no. Nelson found him guilty of the charges, which could get him up to 21 years in prison when she sentences him in July. The Nebraska Association of School Boards has opposed the bills, largely because they represent a state mandate, and such decisions should be left to districts, said Colby Coash, director of governmental relations. In a letter to the Legislature's Transportation Committee that heard LB634 this session, Brad Wilkins, NASB board vice president and a school board member in Ainsworth, said his district doesnt have the money to buy buses with seat belts and would rather use it to support student mental health. A provision that allows school boards to vote to forgo the seat belt requirement didnt appease him. If we are going to require a vote on seat belts in buses, why not require a vote on metal detectors, on site security officers, security cameras and exterior locks? But on the national level, the tide began to shift in 2015, when the NHTSA administrator said during a speech that the agencys policy had shifted to support all school buses having shoulder and lap belts, and he announced a series of steps his agency would take to move the nation toward that goal. An 11-year-old boy who was reported missing this afternoon has been found, according to the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office. Tyler Long had left home with his dog in the area of Southwest 142nd Street and West Panama Road, about 2 miles west of Kramer, at 12:30 p.m. Monday, the Sheriff's Office said. A Nebraska State Patrol helicopter was called in to assist in the search for Long, a 5-foot, 90-pound boy who had been last seen wearing a pink shirt, blue jeans and no shoes. Love 4 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 2 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. BROOKVILLE, Ohio A swarm of apparent tornadoes so tightly packed that one crossed the path carved by another tore across Indiana and Ohio overnight, smashing homes and blowing out windows. One person was killed and dozens were injured. The storms were among 52 twisters that forecasters said may have touched down Monday across eight states stretching eastward from Idaho and Colorado. The winds knocked homes off their foundations, toppled trees and hurled so much debris that it could be seen on radar, and highway crews had to use snowplows to clear an interstate. Some of the heaviest damage was reported just outside Dayton, Ohio. "I just got down on all fours and covered my head with my hands," said Francis Dutmers, who with his wife headed for the basement of their home in Vandalia, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) outside Dayton, when the storm hit with a "very loud roar" Monday night. The winds blew out windows around his house, filled rooms with debris and took down most of his trees. In Celina, Ohio, 81-year-old Melvin Dale Hannah was killed when winds blew a parked car into his house, Mayor Jeffrey Hazel said Tuesday. RACINE Parents and children will soon have the opportunity to engage with each other in a fun and educational way, thanks to two Learning Landscapes being established in the community. Learning Landscapes are designed for children and their caregivers to learn and engage with each other in locations where that may not typically occur. The Healthier Wisconsin Partnership Program has partnered with Leadership Racine to present Learning Landscapes. The Healthier Wisconsin Partnership Program is an eight-year project focused on improving the social-emotional health of elementary-school students in the Racine Unified School District. The two areas of engagement include a scavenger hunt at Malickis Piggly Wiggly, 5201 Washington Ave., Mount Pleasant, and a classroom mural and I-spy game at the Racine Unified School District Enrollment Center, 3109 Mount Pleasant St. in Racine. The mural, which is anticipated to be ready by June 3, was created by Emily Hollow, a senior at St. Catherines High School. A lot of it is playing engagement and learning in areas where that wouldnt typically occur, said Hollie White, program coordinator for HWPP. Typically, when youre in a waiting room or a grocery store with your child, a lot of times you see kids on tablets or kids running around and getting anxious because they dont really have anything to do. White said these initiatives could help build better relationships between adults and their children. For example, with the scavenger hunt there are questions that the parent and the caregiver can read to the child. With the mural the kids can find different things, White said. There are questions on the side that correspond to the classroom mural for parents to ask their children, like, how does this look like your classroom? What do you do when you have a question? What was your day at school like? Things like that to promote engagement between caregiver and child in places where that wouldnt typically occur. Strengthening families Stacy Tapp, RUSDs chief of communications and community engagement, said Leadership Racine took the lead on identifying the artist. The purpose of the mural in our waiting area is to provide a positive activity for children and their parents to do together while waiting. This supports social-emotional wellness, which is a strong focus of RUSD and the HWPP, Tapp said. Hope Otto, Racine County human services director, said the social-emotional health of a child is critical to their development. Through Learning Landscapes and HWPP, we are working to strengthen children and families in Racine County by offering unique opportunities for engagement and growth, Otto said. 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. RACINE Bre Auna Barnes dad wont walk her down the aisle on her wedding day. If she ever has kids, theyll never meet their grandpa. On Feb. 3, one month short of his 59th birthday, Joseph Barnes died. He overdosed on heroin and cocaine, which he had taken in addition to drinking alcohol and Valium, an anti-anxiety medication. Bre Auna, 22, said she doesnt feel angry about what happened anymore. Shes just hurt that her dad is gone, and that his death was preventable. Barnes is now one of dozens who have been killed via drug overdoses over the past 18 months in Racine County. His death is a microcosm of the opioid epidemic, in which: Lawmakers search for a balance between punishing lawbreakers and protecting public health. The criminal justice system resorting to decades-old methods to deter drug dealing by charging drug dealers with homicide when death results. Addicts continue to face their demons, and families are left to grieve. In this three-part series, The Journal Times will look at each of these issues, how they relate to Barnes, and how they continue to affect Racine County and the nation as a whole. Growing problem Racine County Medical Examiner Michael Payne said that there were 33 confirmed fatal overdoses between Jan. 1, 2018 and April 5, 2019. Twenty-seven of those overdoses are considered accidental, whereas the other six have been classified as suicides or undetermined. Another six cases are waiting on test results, according to Payne, which could bump the total to as high as 39. Theres definitely more drug deaths now than there were in 2013 and 2014. That much is evident, Payne said. Barnes is considered undetermined, since he had reportedly told friends and family about contemplating suicide, although there was no indication he intentionally overdosed Feb. 3. Fentanyl a synthetic opioid considered to be 50 to 100 times more potent than heroin is blamed for this increase and has become more popular with users over the past decade. As deaths have risen, opioids have continued drawing more and more political and media attention. Recently, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin and four of his fellow Republicans proposed federal legislation that would broaden district attorneys abilities to prosecute those who manufacture drugs similar to fentanyl. In April, President Donald Trump vowed to liberate our fellow Americans from the grip of drug addiction at a drug abuse summit in Atlanta, The Washington Post reported. Communities across Wisconsin and America have been devastated by the epidemic of opioid overdoses, Johnson said in a statement. Fentanyl was present in 17 of the countys overdose deaths since the start of 2018. After fentanyl, cocaine and heroin are the next biggest causes of fatal overdoses in the county, according to Payne. There was no fentanyl in Barnes system at the time of his death, according to toxicology reports. It appears he took a speedball combining heroin and cocaine in addition to alcohol and an anti-anxiety medication: diazepam, aka Valium. A mans life Barnes left behind three adult children and four grandchildren. He was nearing retirement after nearly three decades as a welder with J.I. Case. He often worked six or seven days a week and, near the end, Bre Auna said that her dad was just tired. In his final months, he seemed drained, worn down, spent. At the time, he was living with several friends, including Lino Pagni, whom he met years ago when he was growing up in California, near the Hollywood section of Los Angeles. Barnes, who had lived in Racine for about 30 years, invited Pagni to move in with him after Pagnis dad died a couple years back. Pagni took him up on the offer, moving in in May 2016, a decision Pagni has come to regret. Every day after work for the past few years, Barnes rarely wanted to do anything, according to Pagni. He would come home, grab a drink, watch Seinfeld reruns and with increasing frequency get high. Pagni said he never actually saw his friend use any drugs besides alcohol because he is not a user himself. When Barnes would get high, he would do it in his bedroom or in the basement, he said. By the time Barnes died, I hardly ever talked to him anymore, Pagni said, even though they still lived together. I was really disgusted with him. Downturn According to Pagni, Barnes was doing OK as in, he was still going to work and eating normally until July 1, 2018: the day Kyle Rannow, Nikita Wallin and their three kids moved in. Thats when Barnes started using heroin with more regularity and stopped buying food, according to Pagni. He fell four months behind on his mortgage and had missed gas and electricity payments. He also started missing work so often that Pagni thought Barnes had been fired, although that didnt appear to be the case. Pagni thinks there were two reasons Barnes didnt kick Rannow and Wallin out: the first was sympathy for the struggling family, and the second was that disconnecting from them would dry up his drug connection. According to police, Rannow and Wallin were getting high with Barnes when he overdosed Feb. 3. After Barnes fell unconscious, Pagni said that Wallin got him to call 911 before she, Rannow and a third man, Joseph Kelemen, fled in the hope of avoiding arrest. Pagni said Wallin told him that Barnes had drank a fifth of vodka and taken a Xanax an anti-anxiety medication, but not the one later found in Barnes system. According to Pagni, she neglected to mention the heroin and cocaine. A police investigator later reported that Barnes body appeared to be a healthy male with no obvious signs of trauma. His ex-wife, Leeann Barnes, who described Joseph as a protector, said that she had no idea that Joseph who had dabbled with drugs in his younger days had gotten hooked again until after the overdose. I didnt know what was going on. It was behind closed doors, Leeann told The Journal Times. Remembering the good When Bre Auna thinks about her dad, she likes remembering sitting for hours in his living room with him and her two brothers, just talking. Growing up, she remembers having a family dinner every night, no matter who was mad at who, and learning how to defend herself. They didnt live together in the final months, but Bre Auna visited often. She said that she suspected her dad might have been using again, but didnt realize how bad it was. I was in shock, really, she said of the moment paramedics told her that her dad wouldnt be waking up. Bre Auna said she has been on autopilot since February: Im just not really there mentally. She said she works two waitressing jobs. In her serving book, she always keeps a photo of her dad tucked away. Her current Facebook profile picture is a childhood family photo of her younger self, her little brother and her dad all smiling. Since Feb. 3, smiles have been hard to come by. DA prosecuting more dealers with homicide after overdose deaths RACINE In light of the rising death toll of the opioid epidemic, Racine County District Attorney Tricia Hanson said that her office is more Love 2 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 6 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 rape survivors account shows how society and state fail those who report crimes Many survivors have their lives uprooted, are forced to relocate, live away from their family and friends, and start fresh in an unfamiliar setting. An age-wise breakdown of police data on rape crimes show that a majority of victims are young girls under the age of 18. Post Photo: Tsering D Gurung With abortion pills easily available, men are refusing to use condoms The Maternity Hospital at Thapathali reports 50 cases monthly of complications resulting from the use of abortion pills. Memorial Day 1969. Ft. Ord, California Michael Sedano Basic Training builds strong bodies and washes minds. Unless a man is a total dud and gets his ass bounced out of Basic, military training infects a persons spirit and over 8 weeks intensive physical training, even a dissident develops a powerful sense of personhood unique to soldiers and Veterans. Double-time up the same hill grows easier daily, and soon the men reach the apex and keep going, building up a good sweat not winded at all. A man develops a sense of uniqueness and accomplishment running in circles inside a tear-gas filled room, without a mask, reciting your your name, serial number, and your First General Order before fleeing to sweet salt air of Monterrey Bay. Week after week, drill and ceremonies, running, rolling in dirt and crawling in mud, firing guns, throwing hand grenades, fighting in hand-to-hand combat, the Army builds a mans sense of bravado and savagery. Visiting Ft Ord Basic Training February 1969: Barbara Sedano, Private E-1 Michael Sedano, PFC Marcel Sedano By the last week of Basic Combat Training, the Army has its hapless trainees softened up for the piece de resistance of combat preparedness, crawling under machine gun fire. The training highlight comes with exquisite dramatic flair. Its just before dusk when the Army musters three training companies behind wooden bleachers in a hidden dell. Over a hundred of us fill the rows in orderly fashion and when our company is ordered to take your seats we shout our allegiance, A Three One, the best damn company on the hill, Sir! and 40 asses hit the boards with the sound of a single nalga. Our bleachers face a flat dirt space 30 yards long. Its a movie set. Dim lights on twenty-foot poles cast eerie shadows. Barbed wire fences criss-cross the sandbag-checkered plain. Were going to crawl across the field under those barbed wire fences. To our left, where we will begin tonights exercise, a gentle hillside rises dotted with the California Live Oaks that make this part of the Salinas Valley so serenely picturesque. A disembodied voice broadcasts from a MASH-like loudspeaker, distorted and ominous. Dont stand up. The M-60 machine gun fires 500 7.62mm rounds per minute. Every fourth round is a red or green tracer so soldiers can witness the firepower of bullets traveling 2800 feet per second. The final glow of day limns the ridges above with a golden halo when the darkness before us roars to life with the deep throated thunder of that machine gun spitting bullets before our eyes, weaving a lethal tapestry of red and green lights strung across the field. Two M-60s fire continuously for minutes. Thousands of rounds pulverize the earth of the shadowed hillside. Then the dim light catches massive clouds of Ft Ord's light brown dust rising roiling and swirling completely obliterating the beauty of the serene hillside behind a lethal curtain of power. PFC Michael Sedano leaving Pasadena for LAX, July 1969. Next stop: Korea. Like a single organism we hundred soldiers rise helplessly at the spectacle. Moved by the unmitigated destruction we're witnessing, we stomp our boots screaming mindlessly at the raw destructive power. We are a cheering, whistling mob consumed with the glossolalia of eager stupidity. We are raring to get out there and crawl under those ribbons of fire! I complete Basic Training and move into Radio School. Were in the Army now. My wife leaves Isla Vista, rents a hovel converted from a farmworker shack, and I go AWOL every night. She works at Macy's to pay the rent. The Army pays me an extra twenty bucks for being married. Memorial Day Weekend arrives and Ft. Ord is all abuzz. John Wayne and The Green Berets are coming to Ft. Ord movie house. The lines move slowly past the ticket booth. Guys who were in Vietnam last week pay their dollar to watch a movie about Vietnam. Guys who will be in Vietnam in a few weeks lay down a dollar. A buck private gets $115.00 a month, before deductions. The Green Berets is a good song but a dull movie, plodding along event to event, character to character, breaking its monotony with tastes of battle. As the plot drags out, the confrontations with Charlie Cong grow increasingly lethal to our guys. Finally, our boys are up against it. Holding out on a hilltop redoubt, VC sappers have begun to penetrate the wires. Characters we recognize are getting shot up. Charlie doesnt miss. It looks bad for our side. Every soldier in the house, and John Wayne as well, would prefer to duke it out with those rotten enemy, but desperate measures demand John Wayne call in Puff, the Magic Dragon, in real life a propeller-driven airplane mounted with three 7.62mm Gatling Guns on one side. The driver tilts the airplane so the gun side points down and fires. 18,000 rounds per minute pelt the earth when Puff does its stuff. On screen-- as in real death-- red and green tracers ribbon down onto Viet Cong bodies. People are dropping like flies. The camera pans actors in throes of screaming agonized run-but-it-dont-do-you-no-good horrible meat grinding death. For every tracer that strikes the place beneath, four unseen slugs hit with lethal reality. Ft. Ord movie house explodes like we did in those bleachers, tonight with wilder cheers and louder whistles than during training. This is what we are trained for. This is why we are here at Ft Ord on Memorial Day 1969. "I want to be an airborne ranger. I want to go to Vietnam. I want to kill old CharlieCong. hup hup hup." Light reflects off the screen illuminating a full house of soldiers. These men are boys a few months out of high school who cant drink and cant vote, and me. Im a 23-year old with 17 years of education and like those kids, Im stomping the wooden floor with fevered intensity, screaming out of mindless bloodthirst and raising a cloud of light brown dust left behind by the boots of thousands of souls who came to this theatre before me and whose spirits fill me and every soldier in that surreal John Wayne moment fifty years ago this Memorial Day. SP4 Michael Sedano, Memorial Day 1970, Hq 7/5, Camp Page, Chuncheon Korea Paige Neitzel has always wanted to be a nurse and dreamed of being a DAISY nurse one day. The Tomah Memorial Hospital obstetrics department registered nurse realized her dream when named the hospitals 2019 recipient of the internationally recognized DAISY Award during the hospitals national hospital week awards program May 13. I feel like Ive always dreamed of this award since I became a nurse, said Neitzel, BSN, RN, who has been a nurse four years, including the last year and a half at TMH. Just to be honored by a patient and for them to take time out of their day to send in a note and write about it just means so much that your hard work and dedication that you give to your patients does pay off. Its the greatest achievement that Ive had thus far in my nursing career. Neitzel is the third person to receive the DAISY award since the hospital first implemented the program in 2017. The recognition program was established by the not-for-profit DAISY Foundation, based in Glen Ellen, California, by family members in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who at the age of 33, died in late 1999 from complications of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, a little-known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. Bonnie Barnes, FAAN, president and co-founder of The DAISY Foundation, said the care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. A woman who had her baby at Tomah Memorial nominated Neitzel for the award. Paige is one of the most kind, compassionate nurses Ive ever met, and that says a lot because Im also a nurse and have met a fair share in my life, the woman wrote in the nomination form. She made us feel so safe and cared for, the woman added. Tomah Memorial chief nursing officer Tracy Myhre, MSN, RN, said the recognition validates the care provided by nurses at TMH. Its a way to recognize those things that (nurses) do that you cant put a label on and the connection that they have with families that make the patients feel better, said Myhre. Neitzel was one over 20 nurses nominated for the award this year. All of the nominations come from patients or families, and we have really grown from seven the first year, Myhre said. As part of the DAISY recognition, Neitzels name and nomination will be added to the national DAISY website. Myhre said the hospitals next DAISY Award recipient would be announced next May. She said patients, families and colleagues can nominate nurses for the recognition using a DAISY Award nomination form located on the hospitals website at www.tomahhospital.org. Printed nomination forms are also located at the hospital. Having the DAISY Award really helps nurses to understand the value that they bring to health care, our organization and to our patients, Myhre said. More than 150 nurses work at Tomah Memorial. 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. ONLINE LIBRARY MAP Little Free Libraries can found outside homes, churches and businesses throughout La Crosse County. To submit specific address of a Little Free Library not on the map, email elizabeth.beyer@lee.net. Along the sidewalks of cities and towns, there is an increasing number of what, at first glance, appear to be supersized mailboxes. However, these creatively constructed boxes are actually the hubs of an international book-exchange program that started 10 years ago in Wisconsin. Todd H. Bol built the first Little Free Library in 2009 in Hudson, Wis., to honor his mother, and, with the help of his friend Rick Brooks of Madison, the idea became a nonprofit organization in 2012. Today there are more than 80,000 registered libraries in 90 countries. Little Free Libraries operate on a simple system of honesty and reciprocation. If a book is taken, its expected that one is placed in the library to replace it. This encourages an ever-changing lineup, which can include childrens books, novels and nonfiction. Some locations even broaden their assortment to offer toys and puzzles. The La Crosse Public Library sees these book-exchanges as vital to boosting literacy. Joe Hammes, who works in public relations at the library, says Little Free Libraries are important to boost the sense of community in the surrounding neighborhoods including his own. The La Crosse Public Library has donated childrens books to help fill the Little Free Library at the La Crosse Fire Department. St. Pauls Lutheran Church and School in Onalaska, the site of one of the many Little Free Library locations in the La Crosse area, has been an enormous success, said Linnette Fehr, a second-grade teacher at the school. Placing it next to the schools playground has made it a destination for students, but neighbors also have taken advantage of the book-exchange program, too, Fehr said. Zack Peterson designed and built the first library while attending St. Pauls, but it was damaged in a storm and had to be replaced. Former student Hunter Kasten, who attends Luther High School in Onalaska, built the one thats in use today. Love 3 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 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 city of Lodi will be allowed to bill water customers for a $1.8 million project that was built without authorization, resulting in a reprimand and referral to the state attorney general. The Wisconsin Public Service Commission voted last week to allow cost recovery for the booster station, which was completed in August to increase water pressure for a new primary school and residential development on the citys west side. The project, which commissioners agreed was needed, will result in a 34% rate increase for the Lodi Municipal Light and Water Utilitys 1,329 customers. Commissioner Ellen Nowak objected to the cost recovery, saying the utility deliberately chose not to follow policies in place to protect ratepayers. Noting a growing number of similar cases, Nowak suggested the PSC should send the citys residents a wake-up call to hold elected officials accountable. Its just mind-boggling, she said. If we dont have a consequence, we might as well not have a rule. The other two commissioners agreed that the violation was deliberate but lamented that the citizens of Lodi would end up paying the bill one way or another. If we disallow the project costs, the city is going to increase the tax levy, said Chairwoman Rebecca Valcq. In September 2017, the city promised the Lodi School District it would add a booster station to meet the demands of a new elementary school, scheduled to open the following year. The city began construction in April 2018 despite a consultants warning that PSC approval was required. Under state law, utility construction projects with a price tag of more than $299,000 require prior approval from the commission. The PSC learned that the station had been built in August when the city asked the Department of Natural Resources for permission to put it into operation. The commission reprimanded the city in December and referred the case to the state Attorney Generals Office for investigation. The Department of Justice did not respond to inquiries regarding the status of that case. Lodi Mayor Jim Ness did not respond to messages seeking comment. In January, the utility submitted a compliance plan that calls for a review of the rules, project checklists, building in more time to construction schedules, and regular contact with PSC staff. Since 2017, the PSC has opened 18 investigations into unauthorized construction. In most cases, the commission allowed cost recovery. Last year, in authorizing a 30.5% rate hike, the commission rejected some $5.6 million in unauthorized construction and cost overruns by the city of Madison, citing a pattern of failing to comply. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 Anup Ojha is a reporter for The Kathmandu Post primarily covering social issues and human interest stories. Before moving to the social beat, Ojha covered arts and culture for the Post for four years. The Democratic Party of Wisconsin will pick a new leader this weekend, deciding who leads it into a 2020 campaign in which the state is widely viewed as the potential tipping point for the presidency. The partys vice chairman, state Rep. David Bowen, of Milwaukee, and former MoveOn.org leader Ben Wikler, of Madison, are seeking the post. Martha Laning, of Sheboygan, who has held the position since 2015, isnt running again. The party chairperson will be elected to a two-year term by majority vote of the more than 1,000 delegates expected at the convention Saturday and Sunday in Milwaukee. Gov. Tony Evers will give the conventions keynote address Saturday night. U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Madison; Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes; Attorney General Josh Kaul; and U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, D-Milwaukee, also are among those expected to speak. The party leadership contest features a pair of young, but seasoned, political hands. Wikler, a Madison native who moved back to his hometown late last year, held a string of national political positions that included being senior adviser and Washington director at the liberal grassroots group MoveOn.org. There, Wikler helped lead the successful organizing push in 2017 to halt the repeal of former President Barack Obamas health care law. Bowen, a former Milwaukee County Board member and three-term lawmaker, has been vice chairman of the state party under Laning since 2015. Bowen said hes proud of the strides the party has made since, culminating in its electoral triumphs in 2018 when Evers, Baldwin and all other Democratic statewide candidates won election but he says theres more to be done. Bowen said he wants to improve the state partys relationship with local activists and give more influence to local groups to drive the partys messaging. He said hes running to bring greater consistency to Democratic campaigns and move us beyond having really good moments. The challenge is consistency, Bowen said. This state is built on progressive principles, and we want to return to that. Wikler said the next party chairperson will benefit from the groundswell of activist energy among Democrats in the Trump era. The challenge for the party is finding ways to channel it into collective action, Wikler said. Battleground state The next party chairperson will help decide its direction at a time when Wisconsin may have a bigger role than ever in national politics. The state is widely viewed as among a few that will decide the next president, and national Democrats will nominate their challenger to President Donald Trump at their national convention in Milwaukee next summer. Evers is not endorsing a candidate in the chairperson race. Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Black Earth, told the State Journal hes backing Wikler, in part due to his work at MoveOn.org. Both Bowen and Wikler say the partys staff must become more diverse, that the party must spur greater Democratic interest in state judicial elections, broaden its efforts to compete in areas where Democrats traditionally havent fared well, and rebuild trust in some urban areas where the party has been seen as taking voters for granted. Youth is served Both Bowen, 32, and Wikler, 38, would bring youth to Democratic Party leadership. There are other similarities, including that both prominently supported U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vermont, in the 2016 Democratic presidential primary. Both candidates praise Lanings tenure, saying the partys finances and organizing apparatus are vastly improved from when she took over in 2015. Wikler said he wants to increase the use of data and mobile technology, including text messaging, in party organizing. He also would center much of the partys messaging around provisions of Evers budget, including his proposed expansion of Medicaid eligibility for 82,000 Wisconsinites under the federal health care law. Wikler said Democrats can press the case against Republican lawmakers who oppose the expansion, which a recent Marquette Law School poll showed was backed by 70% of respondents. He said the popularity of that and other Evers initiatives helps the party reach out to folks who may not know theyre Democrats. Heading into the 2020 cycle, Bowen said he seeks to improve what he called the transactional relationship the party has had with voters in some communities, especially in urban areas. Part of that, he said, is building a staff that reflects the communities in which they organize. We must challenge the thinking that we can just expect people to come to the polls and right the wrongs of 2016, Bowen said. Judicial races Many party activists were frustrated by the results of recent state Supreme Court races, including this year, when conservative-backed Judge Brian Hagedorn notched an upset win over liberal-backed Judge Lisa Neubauer, and in 2017, when liberals failed to recruit a challenger to conservative-backed Justice Annette Ziegler. Another state Supreme Court race beckons in April 2020, when conservative Justice Dan Kelly, appointed to the high court by former Gov. Scott Walker, is expected to seek election. There is a decades-old pattern where Republicans lean in more to judicial races, Wikler said. Thats got to end. Bowen said the party can do more to partner with other organizations to support judicial candidates, and to ensure its volunteers know how to get involved in state Supreme Court races. Other positions Bowens ticket includes Sauk County Democratic Party chairwoman Tammy Wood as candidate for vice chairperson of the state party and UW-Madison student and Kenosha organizer Alicia Lorta for second vice chairperson. Wiklers ticket includes Milwaukee County Board member Felesia Martin for vice chairperson and Outagamie County Democratic Party chairwoman Lee Snodgrass for second vice chairperson. Although those candidates run as part of a ticket, the positions are elected separately. Wisconsin Republicans also picked a new chairperson last month, Andrew Hitt. The state GOP does so with a different process: by a vote of its 31-member executive committee. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 A knife-wielding man killed at least one person and wounded at least 19 others, including 13 children, in an attack at a bus stop just outside Tokyo. MILAN, Italy Talk of a re-emergence of neo-fascism is rampant in Europe. So I went to Milan recently to watch a rally in which the countrys most powerful political figure, Interior Minister Matteo Salvini, was promoting a pan-European alliance of far-right parties, joined on stage by nationalist leaders from a dozen European countries. They are hoping to win enough seats in elections to the European Parliament to be able to dismantle the European Union from the inside. First, however, I felt compelled to visit Piazzale Loreto. Now, its a busy, traffic circle surrounded by fast-food joints, but in April 1944, it is where the dead bodies of Benito Mussolini and his mistress Claretta Petacci were hung upside down from a girder above an Esso station. Where the gas station once stood, there is no plaque memorializing the fascists demise, only the golden arches of a McDonalds. Yet there is something fitting about banality replacing horror there. While far-right parties are making gains all over Europe, it is far too facile to apply the label fascist. So far, most of these new parties, including Salvinis Lega, appear more interested in gaining power and positions within their political systems (and within the European Unions bureaucracy) rather than tearing them down. As for the threat of a Europe-wide far-right juggernaut, the Milan rally made clear how hard it is for nationalists to form an internationale. Held in pouring rain in the main city square next to the magnificent Duomo (cathedral), the rally was billed as an international event that would change history. There were a few French flags flying, but nearly all banners were from Salvinis Lega party. Missing from the stage were paragons of the European far right: Hungarys President Viktor Orban, who promotes so-called illiberal democracy that seeks to dismantle democratic institutions. But he apparently prefers to remain part of the current political groupings in the European Parliament rather than join his pal Salvini. Nor were Polish right-wingers there, because they despise Russia, which Salvini and Orban admire. Also missing was Nigel Farage, whose new Brexit party is expected to win the Parliament vote in Britain. But Farage is a one-issue politician and will withdraw his European MPs once London finally leaves the E.U. Even Frances indomitable nationalist Marine Le Pen, the only significant far-right leader on stage, whose National Rally party is neck and neck with the En Marche party of President Emmanuel Macron, was an uncomfortable fit on stage beside Salvini. Le Pen sonorously denounced the European Union that blows on Europe the bad winds of the wild globalization. But, coming from a country that officially separates church and state, she must have cringed when Salvini ended the rally by praising a litany of Catholic saints and held up a white rosary, calling on the heart of the Immaculate Virgin to bring us to victory. Moreover, no one expects her to ever to become French president because the Le Pen name is tarred with Nazi complicity in World War II. And by the way, someone else interesting was missing: Trumps former strategic adviser Steve Bannon. Bannon stood by Salvini last year and claimed he would godfather the pan-European rightist movement. Bannon has failed in his attempt to unify the far right in Europe, I was told by Sylvie Kauffmann, editorial board editor of Le Monde. They dont want to be led by an American. Even Marine Le Pen denied he was an adviser. In recent days, Bannon was reduced to holing up in a 2500-euros-a-night hotel at the Hotel Bristol in Paris, giving interviews to the French press. In sum, while individual far-right parties will gain seats, and may agree on some issues, a grandiose movement is unlikely. And Salvinis political coalition in Italy is extremely shaky. Which brings me to the main message: Salvinis popularity rests not on any clear ideology, fascist or otherwise, but on his populist ability to convince his supporters that they are being cheated and he is the only one that cares. They forgot you. They made fun of you. They voted against you, he shouted to his supporters at the end of the rally. In comments I heard repeatedly in Duomo Square, an elderly couple from Genoa wearing Salvini/Lega buttons, told me, We dont feel abandoned because he is honest and fair. As a clever politician, Salvini is trying to play on those feelings prevalent from Rome to Paris to London to Peoria that centrist politicians have abandoned their voters in an era where everything is changing too fast. As I heard in Milan, in conversations in Paris, and in a huge Farage rally in London, that dissatisfaction occurs on both left and right. The leaders that address it will be successful. However, Italy is not Hungary, and Salvini is not a Mussolini, says Beppe Severgnini, editorial writer and editor at Corriere della Sera. Salvini, he says cannot easily disassemble Italys peculiar democracy. Nor will it be easy for anyone to form a grand European coalition of the far right. Trudy Rubin is a columnist and editorial-board member for the Philadelphia Inquirer. Readers may write to her at: Philadelphia Inquirer, P.O. Box 8263, Philadelphia, Pa. 19101, or by email at trubin@phillynews.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 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 Some protesters gathered Monday at Santa Anita Park calling for a halt to horseracing after the deaths of 26 thoroughbreds this season. Three died in the past two weeks. They want to see a ballot measure to end horseracing in California. The number sounds like a lot -- 26 horse deaths at Santa Anita during racing or training since late December. But the pace of fatalities is actually on track to equal the 37 horses that died under similar circumstances last year. Another seven horses died at Santa Anita in 2018 due to conditions not directly tied to racing, according to the California Horse Racing Board Annual Report. Statewide, 99 horses died last year in training or racing. That's why protester Heather Wilson says a coalition of animal welfare groups want a measure on the state ballot to ban horseracing. "There is collective outrage on what is happening and now is the time to take advantage," Wilson said. After a spate of deaths in February and March, the track was closed and when it reopened, the owner has pressed for reforms among horse owners and trainers. They then went seven weeks with no horses dying, said Santa Anita Park spokesman Stefan Friedman. "If you don't follow the rules here." Friedman said. "You're not gonna be here anymore." Those reforms include better oversight of drugs given to horses, and diagnosing pre-existing injuries, he said. Then two weeks ago, the streak of no deaths ended. The horse that died this weekend was the third death since then. But some fans said they didn't understand the fuss, saying injuries and yes, even death, is part of the sport. As he waited to get into the Santa Anita parking lot on Memorial Day One, one racing fan who gave his first name as Peter said it was the protesters that left him outraged. He said the focus should be on the 1,600 horses that safely race each year. "If you walked 16-hundred people around here each day, how many people will walk up strained with a bad knee or a bad leg or a bad whatever," he said. 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 A package of major changes to California's charter school laws is advancing through the state legislature -- changes that are making pro-charter advocates very, very nervous. "They certainly represent an existential threat to charter schools," said Myrna Castrejon, executive director of the California Charter Schools Association. But teachers unions see it the other way -- that charter schools pose an existential threat to traditional, district-run schools -- and after strikes in Los Angeles and Oakland, their efforts to enact new limits on the growth of charters have gained traction. If enacted, Senate Bill 756 would prevent any new charter schools from opening until 2022. In the other chamber, three Assembly bills -- AB 1505, 1506 and 1507 -- propose new hurdles to opening charter schools, and grant regulators new ways to shut down existing ones. AB 1505 passed last week. Statewide, one out of every 10 students in public schools is enrolled in a charter school; what happens to this legislation will directly impact their education. But to understand the debate about how California's charter school laws might change, it's worth taking a step back to understand how they work now. So we put together this reference guide: FIRST, A QUICK GLOSSARY OF IMPORTANT TERMS: Charter schools: Tuition-free, publicly funded schools that are run not by school districts, but instead by non-profit organizations; each charter school operator has its own unelected board. Authorizers: The government entity charged with overseeing a charter school's academic and financial performance. Every charter school first needs the permission of an authorizer in order to open its doors, and must renew that operating authority every few years. In most cases, the authorizer is the elected board of the school district in which the charter school is located. But in some cases, the authorizer is the county's Office of Education or the State Board of Education. The government entity charged with overseeing a charter school's academic and financial performance. Every charter school first needs the permission of an authorizer in order to open its doors, and must renew that operating authority every few years. In most cases, the authorizer is the elected board of the school district in which the charter school is located. But in some cases, the authorizer is the county's Office of Education or the State Board of Education. Petition: An application to open a new charter school. If the authorizer approves the petition, the founders often get permission to operate the charter school for five years. If an authorizer rejects the prospective founders' petition, the applicant can appeal to a higher level -- first to the county's Office of Education, then to the State Board of Education. An application to open a new charter school. If the authorizer approves the petition, the founders often get permission to operate the charter school for five years. If an authorizer rejects the prospective founders' petition, the applicant can appeal to a higher level -- first to the county's Office of Education, then to the State Board of Education. Renewal: After a charter school has been open, the school's leaders must file for permission to remain open -- a "renewal" of their charter. Renewals are often granted for terms of between three and five years. As with petitions, charter applicants can appeal any rejections to the county or state level. If they don't secure a renewal, the school can't continue to receive public money. LET'S STEP BACK -- HOW BIG IS CALIFORNIA'S CHARTER SCHOOL SECTOR? Big. There are more than 1,300 charter schools in California, enrolling a total of 628,000 children. Roughly one-quarter of the state's charter schools are located in L.A. County; the L.A. Unified School District alone is home to more than 200. WHY DO CHARTER SCHOOLS EXIST? Charter schools were conceived as the test kitchens of the public education system. The original notion was that charters would launch small-scale experiments -- and that larger, less-nimble districts could learn from charters and take their experiments to scale. To that end, charters are exempt from many of the state laws that govern traditional public schools. Leaders of a charter school have more freedom to try new methods of teaching, select the materials they wish to use, and more easily hire (or fire) teachers, who at most charter schools are not unionized. With this freedom comes responsibility. Every few years, charter schools must apply for permission to remain open. If leaders can't prove that their charter school's "experiment" is working -- that kids are learning or the school's finances are sustainable -- their authorizers can shut them down. In some cases, the model works as California's 1992 state charter law intends. But critics say there's much about the model that isn't working. They say charter schools are no longer a small-scale experiment, but a massive, parallel school system that threatens the existing, district-run system -- and authorizers are ill-equipped to keep up with the demands of regulating it. ARE CHARTER SCHOOLS PART OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT? Yes and no. It's true that any student who lives in the authorizing district can apply to attend, with state law mandating charters to hold a lottery if they have more applicants than available seats. In L.A. Unified, district leaders often magnanimously say that charter school students are LAUSD students, too. And sometimes, charter students basically are district students. Roughly one-quarter of California's charter schools -- including 50 schools that LAUSD calls "affiliated" charters -- operate as a district-run school. These "charters in name only," as they're sometimes called, enjoy only some of the same legal freedoms. (They're colored blue on the map above.) But in most cases, the cold reality is that school districts lose out on the state funding that follows each student who enrolls in an "independent" charter school. ("Independent" or "direct-funded" charters are colored orange on the map above.) Though adding up how much money districts lose when students enroll in charters is not a straightforward exercise, this funding loss is central to what makes charter schools so controversial. WHO CAN SHUT DOWN A CHARTER SCHOOL? Authorizers have the legal authority to shut down a charter school, either by non-renewal or revocation of their charter (a more extreme measure). Legally, when reviewing petitions for new charters, authorizers are only allowed to consider whether the school's academic, financial and governance plans are sound. When considering renewal applications for existing schools, authorizers can only consider the charter school's academic and financial track record. Critics say this leaves local school districts with very little ability to say "no" to a petition or renewal application -- even in circumstances where saying "no" might be the best option for everyone. For example, critics say an authorizer can't deny a petition to open a new charter school in a neighborhood where there are already a half-dozen other charter schools. Charter school advocates have said none of these limits prevent school districts from shutting down charter schools that are wasting taxpayer money or where children aren't learning -- but that these limits are necessary to protect charter schools from the political whims of elected boards. Still, shutdowns are not unprecedented. In the past two decades, state data shows that 135 charter schools have closed in L.A. County. The most recent was Summit Preparatory Charter School in South Los Angeles. 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 What makes someone Armenian? It's a complicated question for many Armenian Americans living in Los Angeles, whose heritage was endangered and scattered by the 1915 Armenian Genocide. But a century later, younger Armenians are working to connect with their cultural identities in new ways. Thousands of scholars, policy experts and Armenian Americans from the L.A. area unpacked the many global issues shaping their identity on a recent Saturday at USC, at the fourth "Innovate Armenia" festival and conference, hosted by the university's Institute of Armenian Studies. The Armenian nation is physically scattered but many feel a deep emotional connection to it. Just 3 million Armenians live in Armenia. Another 8 million live elsewhere around the world. Southern California has the largest Armenian population outside of Armenia or Moscow, but it's difficult to know just how large it is. The 2000 census counted about 150,000 Armenians in Los Angeles County, but USC's Institute of Armenian Studies estimates there are somewhere between 500,000 and 1 million Armenians in Southern California. Some were displaced by the genocide. Others settled in L.A. after events like World War II, the 1979 Iranian Revolution, and the Lebanese Civil War in the 1970s and '80s. A sign on Hollywood Boulevard Little Armenia, which went up in July 2009. (FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP/Getty Images) "Los Angeles is such a unique Armenian diasporic community because of how many layers there are," said Shushan Karepetian, deputy director of the Institute for Armenian Studies. "You have Armenians from Armenia. You have Armenians from the Middle East, from South America, from Turkey." Inside USC's Bovard Auditorium, many panel discussions focused on the past, exploring topics like genealogy and the importance of memory. But others looked to the future, like education and security policy in the Republic of Armenia, where one year ago, a peaceful revolution brought down former Prime Minister Serzh Sargsyan. "Both Armenia and the diaspora are in the process of redefining what it means to be Armenian," Karepetian said. "And I think what we're trying to do at the institute and with this event is to release the boundaries. That being Armenian isn't a checklist of four or five items. That you can invest in your own sense of Armenian-ness. Everyone is open and free to contribute to that notion." Visitors to the "Innovate Armenia" festival dance along with the Richard Hagopian Family Quartet. (Aaron Schrank/KPCC) Salpi Ghazarian runs the Institute for Armenian Studies. "The first generation is one who absolutely believes that their own personal identity is one thing and the identity of this new place they've come to is this other thing," Ghazarian said. "And it's a binary, and they have to choose, their children have to choose. I think by the second and third generation, we realize that that's not so." That shift was on display in the USC courtyard, where Armenian folk musicians, the Element Band, kept an intergenerational crowd entertained. Chessmasters challenged children to games on life-size boards. Baristas poured free samples of unfiltered Armenian coffee. Well-known brewer Charlie Papazian, who is Armenian American and authored "The Complete Joy of Homebrewing," gave a talk about Armenian beer culture. Armenian chessmasters challenged festival goers to games on a life-size chess board. (Aaron Schrank/KPCC) "The generations before us, with the whole Armenian genocide, they felt very oppressed by the Turkish government, so they couldn't really practice their Armenian identity," said Sev Kazarian, 25, of Pasadena. "So I think we're lucky here to have that freedom, to come to these types of events, to show our art, our culture, our politics, and be able to have a connection to our motherland,which is so many miles away." The concept of cultural preservation is deeply ingrained in many young Armenian Americans by their families and schools. 17-year-old Johnny Kamakian is a senior at a private Armenian school in Canoga Park where he studies the Armenian language. "A lot of the old guard will say you have to be able to speak Armenian, read Armenian, you have to know everything precisely, to be Armenian," said Kanakian, in between bites of a kebab burrito. "Especially in a country like here, that's hard to maintain because there's so many different ideals." Hrag Karakashian was born in Boston, grew up in Lebanon, and now lives in Germany. His band Garabala, known for modernizing traditional Armenian songs, played the outdoor stage at "Innovate Armenia." "I think if you ask 100 people, 'what is the Armenian identity?' you'll get 100 answers, maybe 200 even," Karakashian said. "It's a tough question, but we have a sad history. Being related to that history genetically gives you somehow this common memory that you share with others." It's a question Hasmik Baghdasaryan has been grappling with. She was born in Armenia, but moved to the U.S. at age 12. "I never really had to question my identity until that point," Bagdasaryan said. "When I went back to Armenia at 19, I was referred to as 'the diasporan.' That was a weird experience for me because because I always thought of myself as an Armenian. So I've been trying to define for myself what that means for me. I don't think I have come to a conclusion yet." Michael Abassian, 23, said he's frequently reevaluating what it means to be Armenian. "It's never like a fixed thing,"Abassian said. "Depending on what age I am and where I'm living, the narrative for me of identity, of who I am as an Armenian American kind of shifts." Abassian's parents are from Yerevan, Armenia, but he was born and raised in Glendale. He said Armenian dance has connected him to his Armenian heritage. The activity taught him communication and confidence, as well as culture. He was part of an Armenian dance group at UCLA. Vic Chouchainan is president and brewer at San Fernando Brewing Company. (Aaron Schrank/KPCC) For Vic Chouchanian, beer is part of the connection to Armenia. The president and head beermaker at San Fernando Brewing Company brewed a special pomegranate-flavored beer for the USC event, an homage to the popular fruit that's one of the most recognizable symbols of the country. "Obviously the first generation to come over are very Armenian-centric," said 39-year-old Chouchanian. "This is the way it is, this is the language, old world ideas. I was first generation born here, so I was really into technology, American culture. I watched Sesame Street growing up, and things like that." Chouchanian wants his infant son to learn the Armenian language, and hopes he'll strike a balance between connections with both past and future ties to his Armenian heritage. "And that's kind of at the top of my list, is to make sure he gets a lot of what my parents gave me,the food, the ideas. But also letting him get in the modern era of Instagram and iPhones," he said. Aaron Schrank covers religion, international affairs and the Southern California diaspora under a grant from the Luce Foundation. Sundays blasts indicative of an intelligence failure, analysts say Though security officials said they were aware of possible violent activities, they failed to prevent a series of explosions that killed four people. . Google. Blogger Chandan Kumar Mandal is the environment and migration reporter for The Kathmandu Post, covering labour migration and governance, as well as climate change, natural disasters, and wildlife. Champion, Queen, Goddess, Mother: Serena Wins at French Open and it Makes her 800th WIN ADVERTISEMENT PARIS (AP) This was one mistake too far for Serena Williams. Sure, the bad backhand put her behind only 15-30 at the outset of the second set of her opening match at Roland Garros on Monday. What made the miscue so bothersome? Shed already dropped the first set against 83rd-ranked Vitalia Diatchenko and Williams unforced error total already was at 15 on a windy evening. So she reacted by throwing her head back and letting out a scream. Then she stepped to the baseline to serve and stomped her right foot. And simple as that, Williams righted herself: She won 11 of the next 13 points, and 12 of 13 games the rest of the way, to come back for a disappointing-to-dominant 2-6, 6-1, 6-0 victory at the French Open. I just was so frustrated at that point, because I have been training well. The past week and a half has been really good, and, God, it was, like, This isnt the Serena I have been practicing with or that I see every day, Williams said afterward. I just let out this roar, and here I am. Yeah, so maybe that helped. She arrived on court with a black-and-white jacket bearing words such as champion, queen, goddess and mother in French. ADVERTISEMENT Those are things that mean a lot to me and reminders for me and for everyone that wants to wear it, Williams explained. Just remind everyone that they can be champions and are queens. A reporter told Williams those four words are a lot to carry, to which the 37-year-old American replied: It is a lot to carry, but so is being Serena Williams. She made her return to Grand Slam competition in Paris a year ago after missing five majors because of the birth of her first child. Williams pulled out before the fourth round because of an injured chest muscle, then was the runner-up at both Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Williams came to Paris this time having withdrawn from each of her past two tournaments because of a balky left knee, and the one before that because of illness. She had played only nine matches all season, and so her pursuit of a record-tying 24th Grand Slam title fourth at Roland Garros seemed no sure thing. That goal seemed even further from her grasp with the way things began in Court Philippe Chatrier against Diatchenko, a Russian who hits two-fisted shots off both sides and upset Maria Sharapova at Wimbledon last year. I just got nervous out there and I stopped moving my feet. And (it) was, like, concrete blocks on my feet. I was like, You got to do something, Williams said. I was just off, basically. And then instead of correcting it, I just kept getting worse. Could the nearly impossible happen? Could Williams lose in the first round of a major? Shed only done so once before in 70 Slam appearances and that happened at the French Open, in 2012. But once Williams recalibrated everything, she took charge. One of her good friends, and another former No. 1-ranked player, Caroline Wozniacki, went in the opposite direction Monday, going from playing a perfect set to quickly fading away against an opponent who never previously had won a Grand Slam match. In a performance emblematic of a difficult season, last years Australian Open champion bowed out in the first round 0-6, 6-3, 6-3 to 68th-ranked Veronika Kudermetova of Russia. Definitely wasnt the best match Ive ever played, said the 13th-seeded Wozniacki, who had only 15 winners to Kudermetovas 40. The way-up-then-way-down showing by Wozniacki stretched her losing streak to four matches. Other seeded players exiting on Day 2 included No. 12 Daniil Medvedev, No. 15 Nikoloz Basilashvili, No. 20 Denis Shapovalov and No. 32 Frances Tiafoe on the mens side, along with No. 18 Julia Goerges on the womens. Tiafoe, a quarterfinalist at the Australian Open in January, threw up a couple of times and his game came apart late in a 6-2, 4-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-0 loss to Filip Krajinovic of Serbia. Obviously very depleted and had nothing really in me, said Tiafoe, now 0-4 at Roland Garros. Before Williams took over the main stadium, Rafael Nadal began his bid for a record 12th championship in Paris and Novak Djokovic got started on his quest for a fourth consecutive major trophy. Both won in straight sets. When it was Williams turn, she needed a bit to get going. After 14 unforced errors in the first set alone, she had six in the second, four in the third. Her winner count went the other way: from five in the first set to nine in the second to 11 in the third. After dealing with five break points in the first set, Williams never faced another. Diatchenko sat at changeovers with a towel covering her head, as if embarrassed to be seen there. At the beginning of the match, Diatchenko said, I was No. 1 between us. But as things progressed, a better version of Williams emerged. With Serena, you have to play not 100%. You have to play 150, Diatchenko said. Always. DNC and Barack Obama Announce the Democratic Unity Fund ahead of a Heated Democratic Primary As the crowded group of Democratic candidates bid for the presidential nomination, the party is preparing for unity. With the support of President Barack Obama who has not endorsed a candidate at this time, the DNC has launched the Democratic Unity Fund. The focus on Democratic unity follows the drama in the 2016 Democratic primary, when supporters of Sen. Bernie Sanders accused the DNC of being biased in favor of Hillary Clinton winning the nomination. More than 20 Democrats are seeking the partys nomination for president in 2020. ADVERTISEMENT Obama write in a letter to supporters: The Democratic Unity Fund is a promise that no matter who earns our nomination, he or she will have a strong, united, and well-prepared DNC ready to lift them to victory. Because winning in 2020 wont happen on its own. Today with the help of @BarackObama, we launched the Democratic Unity Fund a fund specifically dedicated to electing our partys eventual nominee and winning up and down the ballot in 2020. Join him by making a contribution to this effort today: https://t.co/2gfmCzUkJj pic.twitter.com/ceIseVpZUM The Democrats (@TheDemocrats) May 17, 2019 Monday, May 27, 2019 Dr. Jay Wolfson, who served as the guardian ad litem in the Schiavo case, recently sent me a link to a BBC story about Vincent Lambert. Vincent Lambert: Life support must resume after court reverses ruling explains that after the Paris Appeals Court ruling, doctors had to resume life support for Mr. Lambert, in a vegetative state since an accident in 2008. His spouse supports terminating life support, while his parents oppose it. When reading the article, I couldn't help but notice the similarities to some occurrences in Schiavo. The dispute has spread beyond the family of Mr. Lambert. "The UN's Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities had called on France to intervene and delay the move to withdraw the life support while they investigated his case further. France's ministry of health said it was not bound by the committee." A follow up article was published in the Sunday Times (subscription required). https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/elder_law/2019/05/end-of-life-case-in-france.html Tuesday, May 28, 2019 We previously discussed how a seemingly simple administrative omission (failure to include basis of donated property on Form 8283 (valuation of non-cash donation)) cost a taxpayer a $33 million charitable contribution deduction, plus a 40% gross valuation misstatement penalty. We speculated, based on the details of the transaction as described by the Tax Court, that the real reason for the result was that the taxpayer claimed a $33 million charitable contribution deduction for a donation worth only $3.3 million. Last Friday, the Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia affirmed the Tax Court opinion denying the deduction and upholding a 40% valuation misstatement penalty. The entire case is probably a good example of just plain bad tax planning by the taxpayer, and very good pretrial work by DOJ Tax. Its always easy to criticize with the benefit of hindsight but there were red flags all over this transaction. Billionaire Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross made a $5 million charitable pledge to the University of Michigan. Through a series of transactions, he then transferred an interest in a "successor" LLC whose only asset was a future interest in improved property to the University of Michigan in satisfaction of the charitable pledge. Although he pledged a $5 million donation, he claimed a charitable contribution deduction of $33 million. That valuation amount was based on an appraisal made when the property was originally acquired by Ross through a different LLC, but the property was subject to a long term lease that significantly reduced its market value by the time it was donated. And while the donor claimed a $33 million donation, Big Blue sold the property for only $2 million two years later to one of Mr. Ross's business partners in the very same LLC that originally owned the property. In light of those smelly facts, the omission of the cost basis (which was $2.95 million at best) on Form 8283 seems intentional. The DC Circuit speculated that the Service would have questioned how the property appreciated to $33 million dollars in only two years if the basis had been included. The facts are much more detailed but when boiled down to their essence, it looks like Ross pledged $5 million to Michigan, then sold property to a business partner for about that amount and donated the [$5 million] proceeds to Big Blue. Here is a fairly entertaining, easier to understand summary of the entire scheme. By using property instead of cash, perhaps Ross's advisers thought he would get away with inflating the value of the charitable contribution deduction to $33 million. He lost bigtime on that gamble. Pigs turn into hogs and hogs get slaughtered! Darryll K. Jones https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/nonprofit/2019/05/reri-holdings-v-commissioner-affirmed-by-dc-circuit-pigs-and-hogs.html Brazils lack of dependable internet service in rural areas is an increasingly critical problem for farmers. It comes at a time when more agriculture equipment arriving on the market depends on modern telecommunications. Some pieces of equipment require the internet for computer software updates. These programs help the machinery operate at full capacity. Brazils agriculture industry has grown quickly over the past 10 years. This has put the country as a leader of food production worldwide. But problems involving technology and other infrastructure remain. This includes the issue of internet coverage. TIM Participacoes is the Brazil-based business of Telecom Italia Spa, Italys largest telecommunications company. The business estimates that less than 10 percent of Brazilian farms have internet access. As a comparison, over 70 percent of farmers in the United States have access to high-speed internet. That information comes from a 2017 report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This is a structural issue that we have in Brazil that we need to solve, notes Christian Gonzalez. He is an official with Case IH, the agricultural machines division of CNH Industrial NV. He spoke with the Reuters news agency. Gonzalez pointed out that modern equipment such as harvesters and planters can be updated while they are operating. This makes them able to produce more with less wasted time or effort. U.S. equipment maker John Deere was one of the first to try and deal with this problem. In 2018, John Deere partnered with telecommunications provider Tropico to provide rural internet service in Brazil. They offered to set up equipment on farms to provide internet connectivity to machines and vehicles. Other businesses, such as Brazilian telecom companies Oi and TIM, are doing something similar. TIM joined forces with agricultural product suppliers such as Agco Corp, Case, Bayer and Trimble to develop the ConectarAgro program. This software program operates 4G internet connections, among the fastest in the world. Rafael Marquez is marketing director at TIM, which signed agreements to provide 4G internet to two major farming groups in Brazil. He says the lack of internet harms Brazilian farmers ability to be competitive in the market. He noted, The farmer wants to use apps in the field, he wants to send a video to his agronomist when he sees a problem ... they want to be online. TIM hopes to reach 5 million hectares of farms covered by internet by the end of the year. In all, Brazil has around 65 million hectares of farmland. TIMs competitor Oi signed a deal to provide internet to one of the farms directed by soybean producer and trader Amaggi. It will bring internet to the 87,000-hectare Tucanare farm in Mato Grosso state. Im Jonathan Evans. Marcelo Teixeira reported this story for the Reuters news agency. Pete Musto adapted it for VOA Learning English. George Grow was the editor. We want to hear from you. How important do you think internet access is for farming? Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story agronomist n. a scientist who works with the methods used by farmers to raise crops and care for the soil capacity n. the ability to do something; a mental, emotional, or physical ability infrastructure n. the basic equipment and structures that are needed for a country, region, or organization to function properly online adj. connected to a computer, a computer network, or the Internet update n. a change or addition to computer software that includes the most recent information scholarship, news and new ideas in legal history Some 18 previous expeditions, including four from the U.S. failed to breech the Japanese wall of isolation. This was the period of gunboat diplomacy, the tactic of a conspicuous display of naval power with the threat of warfare if terms should not be agreeable to the superior force, according to a book written by James Cable. The details of Robert Mays involvement with the Perry expedition are scarce and it is unknown if he participated in the Perrys first visit to Japan, the second, or both. It is known Perry had at least 250 sailors with him during his first voyage to Japan and brought a further 1,600 with him during the second visit. The effect the visits of these new American steamboats deeply worried the shogunate in Japan. They felt it was impossible to resist American military force. For the first time the shogunate allowed its decision making to be a matter of public debate, but the effect of this was making the shogun look weak in the face of military force. The leaders of Japan were split on how to respond, some wanted to accept the American demands while others wanted to oppose them. The opposing side rallied behind the phrase, revere the Emperor, expel the barbarians. What they all did agree on was bolstering Japanese coastal defenses. Dells Inspiron 13 5000 notebooks tend to be mid-rang devices with decent specs and underwhelming design but in recent years the company has made a habit of borrowing some premium design elements and bringing them to these mid-range laptop computers. The 2019 series, for example, feature thin and light designs, an aluminum palm rest, optional support for NVIDIA GeForce MX250 discrete graphics, and a starting price of $580. Dell is also introducing a new model with built-in support for 4G LTE and a starting price of $730. The new laptops are available now in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and China, and they should be coming to North America soon. The Dell Inspiron 13 5000 (5390) measures about 12.1 x 8.1 x 0.6 and has a starting weight of 2.59 pounds although that goes up to 2.74 pounds and 0.7 inches thick if you opt for a model with LTE. Dell will offer Intel Core i3 through Core i7 Whiskey Lake options, and every laptop in this family features a 13.3 inch, 1920 x 1080 pixel display. The computer has a spill-resistant keyboard with an option for backlit keys. Theres also optional support for a fingerprint reader, which is built into the laptops power button. https://youtube.com/video/FONj0b5-J4M/ Ports include HDMI 1.4b, USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C, USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A, a headset jack, and a microSD card reader. Memory options are nothing to write home about you can get 4GB or 8GB of LPDDR3-2133 RAM and its not user upgradeable. But the computer does support speedy PCIe NVMe solid state storage: Dell will offer 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB options. A few other new touches include lid-open sensor that will turn on the laptop when you open the screen, even if its turned completely off. Inspiron 13 5000 (5390) Inspiron 13 5000 (5390) with LTE Bomb scares and arson mark the nationwide strike enforced by Chand-led communist outfit Co-chair of ruling Nepal Communist Party Pushpa Kamal Dahal says political objectives cannot be materialised by spreading terror I spent Memorial Day morning completing Nathaniel Philbrick's "In The Hurricane's Eye: The Genius of George Washington and the Victory at Yorktown." Along with Washington's patience and leadership in keeping peace among different factions, I was struck by how big a role the French played in the U.S. gaining independence. The French navy's control of the Chesapeake Bay after a victory over the British fleet ensured the American victory at Yorktown, where the French army's siege tactics led to British Gen. Cornwallis' surrender. Philbrick, who also wrote a readable account of the early days of the Revolution in Boston and the Battle of Bunker Hill, shows that Washington often was dependent on French leaders such as Admiral de Grasse. Washington marshaled the highest diplomatic skills to persuade French leaders to support American aims. Sometimes, they resisted, as when DeGrasse refused to send French ships up the York River, which might have allowed Cornwallis' forces to escape. A sudden storm dashed Cornwallis' plans. Washington initially resisted moving his army to Virginia to bottle up Cornwallis. At first, he planned to attack British-held New York, a strategy that Philbrick struggles to justify. Philbrick exposes Washington's repellent actions in regard to slavery. Several of Washington's slaves escaped, and apparently joined Cornwallis's army along with hundreds of other slaves. During the Yorktown siege, with food running low, Cornwallis expelled the slaves, many of whom starved or fell victim to disease. After the battle, Washington attempted to recapture his slaves, hiring a professional slave hunter, according to Philbrick. After a peace agreement with the British had been signed, ending the war,Washington sought to prevent thousands of former slaves from leaving New York with British forces. The British insisted on the slaves retaining their freedom and traveling to Britain. Washington in his later years did criticize slavery, and in his will freed his slaves, upon the death of his wife, Martha. But during his lifetime, he sought to uphold slavery at his home of Mount Vernon. Washington also resisted a venture by Lafayette to establish a farming venture that would operate without slavery. The American commander agreed to aide John Laurens' proposal to establish black regiments in the Continental Army. I was astonished that Washington commanded the most integrated American army until Vietnam. Yet, Philbrick notes that Washington's efforts to recapture slaves after Yorktown sowed the seeds of the Civil War. Philbrick's book is part of a renewed interest in the Revolutionary War in recent years, fueled by the success of the musical "Hamilton" and popular biographies of Washington, Jefferson, Adams and other Founding Fathers. While the Revolutionary War receives new attention, interest in the Civil War was waned, according to an article Tuesday by the Wall Street Journal's Cameron McWhirter. Visitation to Civil War battlefields like Gettysburg and Chickamauga has declined, McWhirter reported. One reason is the campaign to remove Confederate monuments, and the violence at Charlottesville over the removal of a statue of Robert E. Lee, McWhirter found. Another cause is a declining knowledge of American history among young people. When I was growing up, Civil War interest was high among Southern males. Now, aging Civil War re-enactors are not being replaced by younger participants, McWhirter found. Books on the Revolutionary War reveal that it was a nasty conflict, a civil war between the rebels and American British loyalists. Philbrick relates brutal British tactics such as throwing small-pox-stricken slaves into wells to poison drinking water. As another recent book details, the fighting continued for two years after Yorktown in a bitter civil war in the Carolinas. Now, noted World War II historian Rick Atkinson has turned to the Revolutionary War. Atkinson's recently released "The British Are Coming: The War for America, Lexington to Princeton, 1775-1777:" is the first of a three-volume history of the war, following his trilogy about the allied victory over Germany in World War II. The most striking scene in Philbrick's book is Washington bidding farewell to his officers in New York City. As Philbrick relates, Washington stood for a strong central government while refusing efforts to make him an American king. Our current president tramples Washington's legacy. The Civic was subsequently recovered in Raleigh, where Knisley is suspected of carjacking the man of his Corolla and driving away. Curry, the spokesman for the Wake County, N.C., Sheriffs Office, said a deputy spotted a man driving the stolen Corolla on Saturday shortly after midnight after receiving a be-on-the-lookout call for the vehicle from Raleigh police. That deputy and another, along with a Raleigh K-9 officer, then pursued Knisley briefly at high speeds before he crashed. He suffered minor injuries, Curry said. Officers found a loaded handgun on the drivers-side floorboard. Knisley had no identification and was very uncooperative, Curry said. However, he was making comments that he was wanted for murder in Virginia, Curry said. A short time later, North Carolina authorities confirmed there was an outstanding murder warrant for his arrest, Curry added. Then on Monday about 1:45 p.m., as a deputy was in the process of transferring Knisley from the Wake County Justice Center to another facility to appear before a magistrate at the Wake County Detention Center on additional charges, Knisley attempted to escape and make a run for it, Curry said. Division Forest Office recovers encroached forest land in Nuwakot district Around half a dozen illegal shelters in the Bandevi Community Forest were demolished Mark Sundlov, director of Soldiers Memorial Millitary Museum said during the event that the museum planned to change that to continue the courts goal of creating a meaningful way to memorialize those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The additions follow a two-year, $30 million renovation that touched nearly every part of the museum before it reopened in November. The museum launched in 1938 as a World War I memorial. A black granite monument in the shape of a tomb in the center of the building holds the names of 1,075 St. Louisans who died during WWI. The names on both that memorial and the court of honor include neither rank nor the cause of death, by design. It reminds us that no matter if you were a private or a general, Sundlov said. All people shared the promise to serve and protect our nation. Anyone who died while on active duty or activated reserve or National Guard and who lived in the St. Louis metro area can be listed on the memorial. Cause and location of death are not considered. Quentin Tarantinos letter to critics at the Cannes Film Festival asking that they not spoil his new film Once Upon A Time in Hollywood in their reviews, stirred up a little controversy over the nature of spoilers. How much is too much to give away in a review? Should a movie stand on its own merits regardless of whether the viewer knows whats going to happen? While I wonder if someone who is spoiler-phobic should read movie reviews at all, I try and err on the side of being cautious. The perfect movie review, to me, is one that can be equally enjoyed by readers who havent seen the movie and readers who have. But with Netflixs The Perfection, which premiered last Friday, Im going to be extremely, extremely careful. Because the best position to be in while watching director and co-writer Richard Shepards horror thriller is to not know whats coming. And, believe me, a lot is coming. What I can say is that The Perfection at first seems like a highbrow drama, taking place in the world of elite classical music performers. Lizzie (Logan Browning) is an acclaimed cellist who is the prize pupil of world-renowned music teacher Anton (Steven Weber, who seems to be channeling Stanley Tucci). Please register or log in to keep reading. No credit card required! Stay logged in to skip the surveys. Im really glad they have a lot of Latin events and things to honor the Latin community, Thomas said, adding that her family speaks Spanish her husbands native language at home with their 2-year-old, Rafael. Its really nice for him to see the Latino culture reflected in the community in a big event, Thomas said. That, Garcia said, is the idea. The reason were doing this within Brat Fest is because we want to just be inclusive of other cultures. Music is universal, Garcia said, noting that the event is growing in popularity, not just among Latinos. Every year it seems like were getting more people that didnt even know about it. Cristina Avila, whose parents lead the dance company Ballet Folklorico Mexico, said shes been coming to Salchicha Fest ever since her parents began dancing in the lineup. Attending with her husband and their three children, she said she enjoys the food, rides and family time but that she likely would not come to Brat Fest if not for Salchicha Fest. You want to see ... a lot of ethnicities together, she said. She hopes the acts will continue to diversify in the future. It would be nice to have different dances, not only Hispanic, not only American, you know what I mean? Genuine victims deprived of housing reconstruction grant after many families use fraudulent documents to misuse aid Local officials told the Post that three or four members of a single family have received the reconstruction aid, and they are using the newly built homes as shelter for their livestock Originally posted on IdahoEdNews.org on May 23.BOISE The state will receive nearly $7.6 million in federal funding for career-technical education in 2019, and it has a short-term plan in place for the money. Moving quickly Thursday, the State Board of Education adopted a one-year transition plan that paves the way for Idahos Career and Technical Education division to award federally funded grants. Idahos $7.6 million comes from the renewed Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. Passed with bipartisan support, and signed by President Trump in July, the Perkins Act earmarks $1.2 billion for CTE programs nationwide. But theres a paperwork requirement. States must submit a detailed plan to the feds. It is akin to state requirements under the Every Student Succeeds Act, the comprehensive federal law that governs K-12 policy. Under the Perkins Act, states must come up with CTE performance metrics in consultation with stakeholders, State Board staff noted in a memo to board members, prepared for Thursdays meeting. Idaho hasnt figured out its accountability measures yet. And by opting to turn in a transition plan, the state buys some time to work this out. The feds will require performance metrics by April 30, the states deadline for turning in a comprehensive four-year CTE plan. Idahos CTE division will spend the summer and fall working with education and business groups, and could be back before the board with a long-term proposal by the end of the year, division director Dwight Johnson told the board Thursday. The feds general goals go beyond metrics. They want CTE course offerings to match local labor market demands, they want better alignment between high school and college CTE programs and they want states to look at their programs annually, to make sure they are serving special-needs students. The federal money comes as the states education, business and political leaders are paying increased attention to CTE. Many state leaders say CTE can play a pivotal role in Idahos pursuit of its elusive 60 percent goal. The state wants 60 percent of its 25- to 34-year-olds to complete some education beyond high school be it two- or four-year college or CTE. The board approved the one-year plan during a brief conference call Thursday. One board member, David Hill, took part by phone from a hotel airport in London. Two other board members missed the 6-0 vote: Linda Clark and state superintendent Sherri Ybarra were absent. Clark was on a vacation she had scheduled months earlier, said Allison Duman, the boards executive assistant. Ybarra is taking Thursday and Friday off for her sons graduation, spokeswoman Kris Rodine said Thursday. But according to a weekly schedule released to the news media Monday by Ybarras staff Monday Ybarra had one meeting scheduled at State Department of Education headquarters Thursday afternoon, 30 minutes before the State Boards meeting. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 HANSEN Decorating graves is an ancient custom, but decorating watery graves is nearly impossible, veterans told the crowd gathered at the Memorial Day ceremony at Rock Creek Veterans Memorial Cemetery south of town. Some 4,000 Americans have died in submarines since 1890, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2136 quartermaster Greg Bryant said. Their bodies lie in unknown locations on the bottom of an ocean. These submariners lie in unmarked graves, Bryant said. The ocean itself is their cemetery. In a quiet ceremony called the Tolling of the Boats, veterans from Magic Valleys Trout Base solemnly called out the names of Idahos fallen submariners and followed each name with the soft ring of a bell. Grey clouds gathered, but robins continued to chirp. Sailors, rest your orders, veteran submariner Dave Chilcott said as he closed the ceremony. In total, 1.3 million Americans have given their lives for their country. Some 650,000 died in the Civil War alone thats the equivalent of losing 7 million soldiers today, Bryant said. Bryant then paraphrased President James A. Garfields May 30, 1868, speech at the first Decoration Day now Memorial Day at Arlington Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia: If silence is ever golden, it must be here, beside the graves of fifteen thousand,... summed up and perfected by one supreme act... For love of country, they accepted death. He continued as the sky darkened and a light rain began to fall. Rather than mourning, we should be thankful that those heroes lived, Bryant said. As umbrellas opened and some huddled underneath, Bryant quickly closed by thanking mother nature for postponing the rain until the end of the ceremony. The Magic Valley Honor Guard then fired off a three-volley salute and Sylvia Goetz bugled Taps. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 ICYMI: Here are our top stories from Tuesday, May 28 Here are some of the top stories from The Kathmandu Post (May 28, 2019). CoreLogic, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides property information, insight, analytics, and data-enabled solutions in North America, Western Europe, and the Asia Pacific. The company operates in two segments, Property Intelligence & Risk Management Solutions (PIRM) and Underwriting & Workflow Solutions (UWS). The PIRM segment combines property information, mortgage information, and consumer information to deliver housing market and property-level insights, predictive analytics, and risk management capabilities. It also offers proprietary technology and software platforms to access, automate, or track the information and assist its clients with decision-making and compliance tools in the real estate and insurance industries. This segment primarily serves commercial banks, mortgage lenders and brokers, investment banks, fixed-income investors, real estate agents, MLS companies, property and casualty insurance companies, title insurance companies, government agencies, and government-sponsored enterprises. The UWS segment combines property, mortgage, and consumer information to provide comprehensive mortgage origination and monitoring solutions, including underwriting-related solutions, and data-enabled valuations and appraisals. This segment also provides proprietary technology and software platforms to access, automate, or track the information and assist its clients with vetting and onboarding prospects, and meeting compliance regulations, as well as understanding, evaluating, monitoring property values. It primarily serves mortgage lenders and servicers, mortgage brokers, credit unions, commercial banks, fixed-income investors, government agencies, and property and casualty insurance companies. The company was formerly known as The First American Corporation and changed its name to CoreLogic, Inc. in June 2010. CoreLogic, Inc. was incorporated in 1894 and is headquartered in Irvine, California. Read More There is not enough analysis data for Giggles N' Hugs. 5.0 Community Rank Outperform Votes Giggles N' Hugs has received 680 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.) Underperform Votes Giggles N' Hugs has received 62 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.) Community Sentiment Giggles N' Hugs has received 91.64% outperform votes from our community. MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about Giggles N' Hugs and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe GIGL will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe GIGL will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days. Previous Next 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. Fundamental company data provided by Zacks Investment Research. In this photo taken Wednesday, May 15, 2019, a dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is displayed at the Neighborcare Health clinics at Vashon Island High School in Vashon Island, Wash. Business owners worried about the measles may want to be sure their staffers have been vaccinated, but before issuing any orders, they should speak with labor law attorneys or human resources consultants. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson, File) Small business owners worried about the spread of measles may want to be sure their staffers have been vaccinated, but before issuing any orders, they should speak with a labor law attorney or human resources consultant. An employer generally is prohibited from requiring employees to undergo medical procedures including vaccinations under the Americans with Disabilities Act; a company that tries to force staffers to be vaccinated can find itself being sued by angry workers. But there can be exceptions, especially in places where there's a measles outbreak or where government officials have ordered vaccinations to protect the public's health. If an employer is sued for requiring vaccinations, or even firing a staffer who refuses to be vaccinated, a court is likely to defer to the judgment of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other public health officials, says Howard Mavity, an employment law attorney with Fisher Phillips in Atlanta. And the CDC, which has identified nearly 900 measles cases in nearly half the states, has declared outbreaks in parts of New York state and California, and in Michigan, Georgia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Washington state. The CDC considers three or more cases to be an outbreak. The CDC calls measles highly contagiousso much so that if one person has it, up to 90% of those around them will also get it unless they are not protected. It can have serious complications including neurological problems and blindness. The disease was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but the number of cases has been rising. Owners who want their staffers vaccinated against measles are on the strongest ground in places where there are known outbreaks, Mavity says. "They have a decent chance of prevailing" in the case of a lawsuit, he says. But Mavity says judges' decisions would rest on the facts of an individual case. What isn't clear is whether a staffer who claims an exemption under law from required vaccinations because of religious or health grounds can be disciplined or fired for not getting a measles shot. Owners are best advised not to make any requirements about vaccinations, or take any action against employees, without getting legal advice first. Companies should also know that they may not have the same protection when it comes to annual influenza vaccinations as they might have with measles. But health care companies where workers are in contact with patients may have more power to require vaccinations. The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in December upheld the right of a health care company to fire a staffer who refused to be vaccinated against rubella. At health care companies, management might decide to require unvaccinated staffers to wear masks or work in jobs where they don't have contact with patients. Explore further Number of US measles cases rises to 704 in 2019: official 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. Credit: CC0 Public Domain A report on the state of the world's children released Tuesday notes major progress in health, education and safety in dozens of countries over the past two decades. Save the Children said in its global childhood report that conditions had improved in 173 out of 176 countries, with Singapore ranking as the country that best provides for children. The non-governmental organization estimates that 690 million children are being robbed of their childhood because of sickness, deaths, child marriage, early pregnancy, malnutrition or no schooling, down from 970 million in 2000. Sierra Leone, Rwanda and Ethiopia were cited as countries that had significantly improved the lives of children over the past two decades. Globally, child deaths have dropped and there are 49 million fewer stunted children, with China and India accounting for more than half of the global decline. Of the eight indicators used by Save the Children to measure progress for children, only one was on the risethe number of displaced children from conflict. Some 420 million children live in conflict zonesmore than double the number in 1995. After Singapore, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Slovenia, Germany, Ireland, Italy, South Korea and Belgium were listed as the top 10 countries where children are the most protected. The Central African Republic ranked last at 176, just below Niger and Chad. Explore further Niger is worst place to be mother: study 2019 AFP Etty "Tika" Benveniste, Ph.D. Credit: University of Alabama at Birmingham Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that damages the insulating sheaths of nerve cells of the central nervous system. People with the disease can lose vision, suffer weak limbs, show degenerative symptoms and exhibit impaired cognition. While multiple sclerosis has 17 approved therapies to modify the disease, none is able to halt disease progression. Thus, researchers use a mouse model called experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, or EAE, to discover disease mechanisms that may translate into treatments for patients with multiple sclerosis. Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham now report in the journal JCI Insight how dysregulated neutrophils cause damage in a severe, mouse model form of EAE called atypical EAE, which attacks cerebellum brain tissue. "These findings contribute to our understanding of the pathobiology of brain-targeted EAE and document the detrimental role of neutrophils in autoimmune neuroinflammation," said Etty "Tika" Benveniste, Ph.D., and Hongwei Qin, Ph.D., senior authors of the study. Benveniste and Qin are professor and associate professor in the UAB Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology. Much evidence from neutrophils points to their detrimental impact in multiple sclerosis. Neutrophils are the most common white blood cells in the body, but their exact function in multiple sclerosis is unclear. Their normal, healthy function is to protect humans, as neutrophils speed to sites of infection or inflammation, aided by their ability to crawl out of the bloodstream and into affected tissues. In everyday life, people encounter them as the most prevalent cells found in pus, as an infection clears. Several strands of evidence from previous studies at UAB and elsewhere formed the groundwork for this current study. These include 1) UAB researchers and others have shown that brain-targeted, atypical EAE is predominantly a neutrophil-driven disease; 2) dysregulation of a cell-signaling pathway called JAK/STAT is associated with multiple sclerosis and EAE; and 3) a cytokine called granulocyte colony-stimulating factor is known to have a detrimental role in multiple sclerosis, as it correlates with neurological disability and lesion burden in patients. In their experiments, the UAB researchers artificially dysregulated the JAK/STAT signaling system by using mice with a deleted Socs3 gene. Socs3 is a negative regulator of the JAK/STAT pathway; in the absence of Socs3, the JAK/STAT pathway is overly active and promotes inflammation. As a result, mice with Socs3 deletion in their myeloid cells have a severe, brain-targeted, atypical form of EAE that is associated with cerebellar neutrophil infiltration and over-activation of STAT3, one of the seven STAT proteins that function in the JAK/STAT cell signaling pathway. Using this model, the researchers found that neutrophils from the cerebellum of mice lacking Socs3 showed a hyper-activated phenotype and produced excessive amounts of reactive oxygen species, chemically active compounds that can damage cell structures. However, if mice were given treatments to neutralize the reactive oxygen species, the onset of atypical EAE was delayed and disease severity was reduced. The mechanisms causing these changes were an enhanced STAT3 activation in Socs3-deficient neutrophils, a hyper-activated phenotype in response to granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, and an increased production of reactive oxygen species after neutrophil priming by granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. Furthermore, when compounds were given to mice to neutralize granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, the incidence and severity of atypical EAE was significantly reduced. The researchers also sequenced messenger RNA in the Socs3-deficient neutrophils after stimulation by granulocyte colony-stimulating factor to identify the cell-signaling pathways and proteins that were most differentially affected. "Overall, our work elucidates that hypersensitivity of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor/STAT3 signaling in Socs3-deficient mice leads to atypical EAE by enhanced neutrophil activation and increased oxidative stress, which may explain the detrimental role of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in multiple sclerosis patients. Furthermore, the work suggests that both granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and neutrophils may be therapeutic targets in MS," Qin and Benveniste said. The study, "Deficiency of Socs3 leads to brain-targeted EAE via enhanced neutrophil activation and ROS production," is published in the journal JCI Insight. Explore further Understanding neutropenia More information: Zhaoqi Yan et al. Deficiency of Socs3 leads to brain-targeted experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis via enhanced neutrophil activation and ROS production, JCI Insight (2019). Zhaoqi Yan et al. Deficiency of Socs3 leads to brain-targeted experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis via enhanced neutrophil activation and ROS production,(2019). DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.126520 Credit: CC0 Public Domain Cardiomyopathies (heart muscle diseases) in children are the focus of a new scientific statement from the American Heart Association that provides insight into the diagnosis and treatment of the diseases as well as identifying future research priorities. It will be published in the American Heart Association's journal Circulation. When a child has certain types of cardiomyopathy, their heart is not able to pump blood efficiently. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, heart rhythm abnormalities, dizziness, swollen hands and feet or other indications. Although rare, cardiomyopathies in children can be life threatening and often result in either a child needing a heart transplant or premature death. There are many causes of cardiomyopathies including genetic variations that affect basic heart functions, systemic diseases, such as infections, treatments for medical conditions that injure the heart and many others, some of which are not yet understood. According to the statement: Nearly 40% of children who are diagnosed with cardiomyopathies that produce symptoms receive a heart transplant or die within the first two years after diagnosis. The percentage of children with cardiomyopathy who received a heart transplant has not declined over the past 10 years. Cardiomyopathy remains the leading cause of transplantation for children over one year of age. "This statement is designed to give medical professionals an overview of what we currently know about cardiomyopathies in children. Although we are able to provide effective treatments in many cases, research is urgently needed to better understand the causes of the diseases so we can help children with cardiomyopathies live their best lives," said Steven E. Lipshultz, M.D., the chair of the writing group and the A. Conger Goodyear Professor and chair of the Department of Pediatrics at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo. Dr. Lipshultz is also the Chair of the Medical Advisory Board of the Children's Cardiomyopathy Foundation, which partners with the American Heart Association on funding pediatric cardiomyopathy research grants. Explore further More children surviving dilated cardiomyopathy without heart transplant Youll be waiting a while for functional 3D-printed human organs. Credit: from www.shutterstock.com I work in the field of bioprinting, where the aim is to build biological tissues by printing living cells into 3-D structures. Last month I found my Facebook news feed plastered with an amazing story about "the first 3-D printed heart using a patient's own cells." A video showed a beautiful, healthy-looking heart apparently materializing inside a vat of pinkish liquid. Big news. According to an impact tracking algorithm, the story has been picked up by 145 news outlets, tweeted 2,390 times to 3.8 million followers (as of May 27, 2019). Articles on Facebook have at least 13,000 shares, and videos about the story have been viewed well over 3 million times. Unfortunately, many of these media reports don't match up well with the original science. Over-reporting of medical science is unethical, and occasionally dangerous. It's a problem all of us who work in the creation and telling of science can act to fix. How they printed a 'heart' In the original printed "heart" scientific paper, Israeli scientists describe how they built on their own earlier work on bio-inks (printable materials and cells) to create 3-D structures in the laboratory. The main focus was to print a square "patch" of heart cells and blood-vessels using a "personalized" bio-ink; one where all of the cells and materials came from a particular patient. This is important because bio-inks typically contain some synthetic or animal-derived materials. As a final flourish the team also printed the cells into a thumbnail-sized, heart shape. The text of the original paper clearly states the printed heart-shaped structure is not a real heart, and lacks most of the features required to make a heart work. But, along with those striking visuals, this is the aspect of the work that helped the paper become such a media hit. This might sound like the envious griping of a rival scientist. However, I'm not criticizing the science. This is impressive workthe cardiac patches may indeed turn out be an important development in the field. I'm more worried about media reports giving the impression that our field of research is far more advanced than it is. When medical research is overplayed Sensationalism is rife in science journalism. And the 3-D bioprinting field is interesting in particular, as it is currently fueled by a "perfect storm" of hype: it builds on the wider buzz around 3-D printing, is deceptively easy to understand, and blends ideas of science fiction with potential impact in real health outcomes. There are other recent examples of sensationalized reporting in the bioprinting field. For example, Wake Forest University had to issue a clarification notice following reports its scientist Anthony Atala had "printed" a human kidney live on stage In December 2015, news articles announced that a 14-year old boy had become the first human patient to be implanted with a "3-D printed nose". In reality, 3-D printing was only used to make a template to help the surgeon piece together pieces of donor cartilage into the correct shape. We're left with the impression that 3-D bioprinting is a mature, clinically available technology, when currently it is not. What's the harm in a bit of hype? There are numerous ethical downsides linked with over-enthusiastic portrayals of bioprinting in the media. Your heart is a really complicated organ. The problem is, mass media is one of the most important sources of health and medical information for the general public, especially prospective patients. Positive portrayals of a novel technology in the media can affect patient consent to undergo treatment and can even prompt prospective participants to request enrollment in clinical trials. I've seen this myself. Whenever our own research is reported, particularly on television, the next morning I get phonecalls from people who want to sign up for a particular treatment. On TV the message is rarely communicated that we are still at an experimental stage, with human trials still years away. In the worst case, the buzz around new technology can provide an opportunity for unscrupulous charlatans, such as the cosmetic surgeon who reportedly sold an unapproved stem-cell technology in Beverley Hills. One patient ended up with fragments of bone in her eyelid. Media reports of infamous thoracic surgeon Paolo Macchiarini's implantation of a "synthetic trachea" arguably provided him a platform to accelerate his research program. Seven of the nine patients who received one of his synthetic trachea transplants have since died. An anatomy of hype Fed by enthusiastic reporting, technologies tend to follow a pattern called the Gartner Hype Cycle: first buoyed to an unsustainable "peak of inflated expectations" before falling to the "trough of disillusionment." The phenomenon can bring benefits to many players in the industry of science. So how can we fix the situation? The exaggerated claims around particular stories tend to build upon one another in a snowball effect. This means all of those involved in creating and sharing the stories of science can step up: scientists, journals, universities and journalists. Salesmanship has become an indispensable skill for modern scientistsreally, every grant application is a sales pitch. Indeed academic science as a whole seems to be tending toward ever more bluster. In published papers the use of positive terms such as "innovative," "unprecedented" and "groundbreaking" have increased by thousands of percent over the past four decades. Scientists need to be wary of this trend and keep themselves in check when speaking to the mediaespecially in cases where their words will be taken very seriously by prospective patients and patient advocacy groups. Journals and article reviewers can take responsibility for ensuring they publish top quality science, and also that the language in an article is accurate and not overblown. This includes the article title, which is sometimes the only part of an article journalists and general readers can see. Language choices are also vital in materials coming out of university press offices. Some reporters take press releases at face value, regurgitating lines or paragraphs verbatim. Non-specialist science reporters may not understand a field in enough detail to question this interpretation, or they don't invest time in placing a new announcement in a broader context. Asking other experts for their views on a new piece of research is vital in science reporting. A risky symbiosis A symbiosis has evolved between scientists and the media: scientists need the media to bolster their record of exposure and "impact" on the next grant application. The media needs scientists for those shareable (and all too rare) positive, feelgood stories. There is a stark mismatch between the elements required of a modern news story (novelty, impact), and the reality of medical research (slow, meticulous, often incremental). This can result in a distorted depiction of medical research. When these pressures push the story too far, they can end up spinning a fairytale. And with medical research in particular, fairytales can be dangerous. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Fig. 1 Cx32 facilitates the uptake of o-syn preferentially to monomers or fibrillar assemblies. a SEC analysis of -syn monomers or b oligomeric -syn (o-syn) assemblies at 280 nm absorbance. c SEC confirmation of labeled ATTO-550 o-syn assemblies at 550 nm absorbance. d TEM characterization of -syn monomers, e oligomers, or f fibrillar assemblies; scale bars represent 5 m, 500 nm, and 2 m, respectively. g Confocal image analysis of non-transfected wild-type (WT) or transfected HEK-293 cells with low (15 g) or high (50 g) expression of Cx32-mCherry or Cx43-GFP plasmid constructs. Scale bars represent 200 m. h Densitometric analysis of i Western blot of monomeric, oligomeric or fibrillar -syn uptake in WT HEK-293 cells or HEK-293 cells expressing Cx32 or Cx43 (n = 4, two-way ANOVA followed by Tukeys post hoc test for multiple comparisons, n.s. = no significance, F(8, 24) = 13.1, ****p Tiny channels between nerve cells are involved in a newly discovered mechanism of how Parkinson's disease can spread throughout the brain, according to new research from Linkoping University, Sweden. The results demonstrate that harmful protein aggregates, or deposits, can bind and "hitch a lift" with channel-forming proteins, and in this way spread to healthy cells. The study has been published in Acta Neuropathologica. Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Huntington's disease, affect different regions of the human brain. Despite these regional differences, research has shown that the processes inside cells affected by these diseases have a lot in common. One characteristic of these diseases is that specific proteins start to form aggregates that damage and eventually kill the cell. In Parkinson's disease, it is misfolded forms of a protein known as -synuclein that are involved. These aggregates can recruit normal forms of -synuclein, causing the formation of more protein aggregates. "During the past few decades, we have realised that the protein deposits in the brain can spread between cells, acting as seeds that start a new aggregation cycle in the next cell. The disease in this way spreads in the brain in a manner similar to an infection. We want to understand how the protein spreads, and use this knowledge in the long term to inhibit the spread of disease in the brain," says Martin Hallbeck, associate professor in the Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine at Linkoping University and consultant in surgical pathology at Linkoping University Hospital. Fig. 2 Cx32 expression correlates with o-syn uptake. a Densitometric analysis of Cx32 protein levels in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells exposed to SB203580 for 24 h (10 and 25 M), (n = 5, one-way ANOVA followed by Tukeys post hoc test for multiple comparisons, n.s; no significance, F(2, 12) = 5.547, *p It has long been known that cells that lie close to each other can create small channels (known as gap junction channels) between them. These small channels are built from members of a family of proteins known as connexins. Studies by other scientists have suggested that connexins play a role in other types of disease, such as HIV/AIDS. This led the researchers at Linkoping University to wonder whether connexins can play a similar role in the spread of Parkinson's disease in the brain. "It turned out that the harmful protein aggregates in Parkinson's disease can bind to connexin-32, Cx32, and be absorbed by a cell. We are the first to demonstrate that connexins play a role in the uptake and transfer of disease-related proteins from one cell to another in Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy, a related disorder," says Juan Reyes, senior postdoc in Martin Hallbeck's research group and primary author of the article. The brain contains more than 10 connexins, but the study suggests that the protein deposits in Parkinson's disease interact with only one of them, Cx32. Details of the process by which the harmful proteins transfer from one cell to a neighbouring cell with the aid of the channel-forming protein remain unclear. The scientists do know that the channel created by connexin is too narrow for the protein aggregates to pass through. They have shown that the aggregates bind to the channel-forming protein Cx32 and sneak into the cell together with it. When the researchers inhibited the formation of channels in cells in culture, absorption of -synuclein was prevented. In experiments using brain tissue from four deceased patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, the scientists observed a direct binding between synuclein and connexin in two of the cases, which suggests that they interact with each other also in the Parkinsonian brain but not in normal brains. Fig. 3 Cx32 interacts with o-syn and facilitates uptake and transfer in neurons and oligodendrocytes. a Schematic representation of the co-culture donor and recipient SH-SY5Y models designed to quantify -syn-GFP transfer as donor cells (green) and recipient cells shown in red by open (Cx32-mCherry) or closed circle (mCherry), depicting the relative expression of the plasmids. b Flow cytometry measurement of -syn-GFP transfer in undifferentiated conditions (n = 9 independent experiments and each representing the average of triplicate measurements, unpaired, two-tailed t test, t16 = 2.35, *p "We hope that connexin-32 can be used in the future as a target for drug treatment," says Martin Hallbeck. Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, after Alzheimer's disease. The condition is characterised by tremors, stiff muscles and difficulties is starting physical activity, which becomes slow. Cognitive symptoms are also common in later stages of the disease. When symptoms become apparent, a relatively large fraction of the nerve cells in the region of the brain affected have already died. No treatment is currently available to inhibit disease progression. Explore further Inflamed monkey guts produce Parkinson's-related proteins More information: Juan F. Reyes et al. Binding of -synuclein oligomers to Cx32 facilitates protein uptake and transfer in neurons and oligodendrocytes, Acta Neuropathologica (2019). Juan F. Reyes et al. Binding of -synuclein oligomers to Cx32 facilitates protein uptake and transfer in neurons and oligodendrocytes,(2019). DOI: 10.1007/s00401-019-02007-x 1) NMR data was used to the structure determination and 2) interaction site mapping and 3) all data was used to construct a model of the complex. Credit: Ana Paula Valente A collaboration between researchers from Brazil and the United States may open new avenues for the treatment of thrombosis, the leading cause of death among cancer patients. In a study to be published in Blood, the scientists describe the Ixolaris structure, an important anticoagulant protein found in tick saliva, and its interaction with Factor Xa, a key enzyme in the process of blood clotting. Ana Paula Valente, Viviane de Paula, Robson Monteiro and Fabio C. L. Almeida, of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, in collaboration with Nikolaos Sgourakis, of the University of California, Santa Cruz, and Ivo Francischetti, of the National Institute of Health, in the United States, conducted the study. The anticoagulant effects of Ixolaris were already known, but this is the first description of the molecular mechanism of its action on the functioning of Factor Xa, an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the blood clotting. Using nuclear magnetic resonance, the researchers were able to construct a 3-D model of the structure formed by the association of these two proteins. The unprecedented result brings important insights into understanding the molecular mechanisms behind hemostasis, a complex process that regulates blood clotting and whose malfunction can lead to thrombosis. The expectation is that, from such a study, it will be possible to develop drugs capable of interrupting the formation of clots without interfering in the process of hemostasis as a whole. The chain of phenomena leading to blood clotting involves several proteases, enzymes like Factor Xa that act by activating or inactivating other proteins. "The challenge is to develop a specific inhibitor that does not interfere with other similar enzymes of the body. Ixolaris has the advantage of binding to a non-canonical site, that is, a site more specific to that enzyme," explains Ana Paula Valente, professor at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. Understanding these structures and their mechanisms is crucial for the advancement of studies in the area. "The structural information about these complexes is scarce because they are huge and challenging systems. The great merit of this study is that we have been able to obtain relevant molecular information from such a difficult system," says Valente. The results may also contribute to the development of new treatments for thrombosis. "This 3-D structure study opens up numerous possibilities for structure-based drug design targeting human coagulation factors that could be used as a therapeutic option to attenuate coagulation and inflammation associated with thrombosis," adds Viviane de Paula, first author of the work, professor at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and visiting scientist at UCSC. Explore further A tick's spit leads to an entire lesson in blood clotting More information: The article entitled "NMR structure determination of ixolaris and Factor X interaction 1 reveals a noncanonical mechanism of Kunitz inhibition" has been accepted for publication in Blood and will be available online next week. Journal information: Blood The article entitled "NMR structure determination of ixolaris and Factor X interaction 1 reveals a noncanonical mechanism of Kunitz inhibition" has been accepted for publication inand will be available online next week. Provided by Instituto Nacional de Ciencia e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (INBEB) Integrated pest management The method offers an entry point to organic production systems for a healthy society. Shutterstock Even amid an epidemic of abuse, opioid painkillers are still commonly prescribed to teenagers and young adults for conditions like tooth and back pain, a new study finds. Researchers found that between 2005 and 2015, opioids were prescribed to teens and college-age adults at nearly 57 million visits to doctors' offices and emergency departments in the United States. It was particularly common in the ER: 15% of those visits ended with an opioid prescriptionwith only a small decline over the 10-year study period. The reasons for the prescriptions ranged from bone fractures and sprained ankles to dental problems and low back pain, the study authors said. It's not clear how often those prescriptions were appropriate or inappropriate, said Dr. Todd Callahan of Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tenn. "What we can say is that opioids are still commonly prescribed to adolescents and young adults," he said. "And this study gives us some clear signals about which diagnoses are most related to those prescriptions." Callahan wrote an editorial published with the study in the June issue of Pediatrics. Dr. Joel Hudgins, lead researcher on the study, agreed that it's not clear what the prescription rates "should be." "But for some of these conditions, the rates are too high," said Hudgins, who practices emergency medicine at Boston Children's Hospital. For problems like dental pain and aching backs, it's recommended that non-opioid pain relievers be tried first, Hudgins said. Yet, the study found, about 60% of emergency visits for "dental disorders" ended with an opioid prescription. And among young adults, the drugs were prescribed at 38% of emergency visits for low back pain. That's concerning because teens and young adults are at increased risk of abusing opioids after receiving a legitimate prescription, according to Hudgins. "This is a high-risk population," he said, "so we should be particularly thoughtful when making the decision to prescribe an opioid." More than 130 Americans die every day from an opioid overdose, according to the U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Illegal opioids, like heroin and illicitly manufactured fentanyl, have become the biggest concern in recent years. Still, prescription opioidslike OxyContin, Vicodin and Percocetwere involved in 35% of opioid overdose deaths in 2017, government figures show. And most heroin abusers started out with prescription opioids, according to the NIDA. For the current study, the researchers used two national databases to track patterns of opioid prescriptions to patients aged 13 to 22. Not surprisingly, young people were much more likely to get those prescriptions in the emergency department than at an office visit. About 15% of ER trips involved an opioid prescription, compared with less than 3% of outpatient clinic visits. When teenagers were prescribed an opioid in the emergency department, it was most often for a dental problem, a fractured collarbone or a broken ankle. For young adults, the most common reasons were dental pain, low back pain and neck sprains. Emergency department prescriptions for the drugs did dip between 2005 and 2015but only by 4%, the findings showed. Hudgins said that "hopefully" the decline has continued in more recent years. It's also possible, he said, that there have been changes in the duration of prescriptionswhich this study couldn't examine. Experts now say that when opioids are prescribed, it should be at the lowest dose, and for the shortest time possible. Callahan added, "We should be cautious about prescribing opioids and about prescribing the appropriate amount." Both he and Hudgins said that parents and young adults should ask questions any time an opioid is being recommended. Ask whether it's necessary, and if it is, ask about how to dispose of any extra pills safely. "Letting a prescription sit around in the medicine cabinet increases the chances it will be misused," Callahan said. Explore further New study aims to understand opioid fill patterns in children More information: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more on Journal information: Pediatrics The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more on opioids for pain relief Copyright 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Credit: CC0 Public Domain Seasonal allergies to different types of grass or tree pollen are more common in people with anxiety disorders, while patients with depression are more likely to suffer from perennial allergies triggered by allergens such as animal hair. These are the findings of a team of researchers from the Technical University of Munich (TUM). Conversely, food and drug allergies were unaffected by these psychosocial disorders. The team interviewed over 1,700 people from the Augsburg area of Germany about their allergies. Led by Claudia Traidl-Hoffmann, Director of the University Center for Health Sciences at University Hospital Augsburg (UNIKA-T) and Professor of Environmental Medicine at TUM, the team differentiated between perennial or non-seasonal allergiessuch as those triggered by house dust mites or animal hair, seasonal allergies caused by grass pollen for instance, and allergies to other substances such as food. The study participants also answered questions about their psychological health. The focus here was on depression, generalized anxiety disorderswhich affect all aspects of daily lifeand acute mental stress. "There are studies that focus on the psychological components of skin diseases or allergic asthma. For the first time, we are now able to show a connection with seasonal allergies," explains Katharina Harter, the publication's lead author. Around a quarter of those surveyed (27.4%) stated that they suffered from allergies, with 7.7 percent reporting perennial, 6.1 percent seasonal, and 13.6 percent other forms of allergic reactions. Proven influence of psychological factors It turned out that people with generalized anxiety disorders also suffered more often from pollen allergies, but not from year-round allergies. Statistically, these were actually less frequent in the group of anxiety sufferers. A possible explanation for this might be that people with persistent allergies develop different coping strategies to deal with stress, which protect them from anxiety disorders. On the other hand, there was a positive correlation between perennial allergies and depression or depressive episodes. However, the structure of the study did not allow for clarification of whether allergies increase susceptibility to depression or whether depression itself is a risk factor for allergies. What surprised the research team was the fact that psychological factors had littleif anyinfluence on the occurrence of food and drug allergies. Further investigation planned Possible mitigating factors that could compromise causal relationships were statistically excluded in this study. These included age, smoking/non-smoking status, gender, and family predispositions (e.g. to allergic asthma). However, Harter also outlines the study's weaknesses: "We have a relatively high average age of 61 years, so younger people are rather underrepresented here. The findings are also based on personal reports rather than official allergy diagnoses. But we have blood samples from all participants and intend to scientifically verify this point," she confirms. According to Prof. Traidl-Hoffmann, what this study particularly underscores is the importance of devoting sufficient time to patients. This is the only way to complement clinical evaluations with psychosocial aspects to support an integrated therapeutic approach, such as that practiced by the University Outpatient Clinic for Environmental Medicine at UNIKA-T. Explore further Easing your child's allergies More information: Katharina Harter et al, Different Psychosocial Factors Are Associated with Seasonal and Perennial Allergies in Adults: Cross-Sectional Results of the KORA FF4 Study, International Archives of Allergy and Immunology (2019). Katharina Harter et al, Different Psychosocial Factors Are Associated with Seasonal and Perennial Allergies in Adults: Cross-Sectional Results of the KORA FF4 Study,(2019). DOI: 10.1159/000499042 Metaphase chromosomes from ALT cancer cells (U2OS osteosarcoma cell line) depleted for FANCM. Telomeric DNA is in green, chromosomal DNA is in red. The arrowheads point to telomeric DNA dissociated from chromosomes, which indicates severe telomere dysfunction. Credit: Bruno Silva Embedded at the ends of chromosomes are structures called telomeres, which in normal cells become shorter as cells divide. Progressive shortening triggers cell proliferation arrest or death. Cancer cells adopt different strategies to overcome this control mechanism that keeps track of the number of times that a cell has divided. One of these strategies is the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway, which guarantees unlimited proliferation capability. Now, a research group led by Claus M. Azzalin at Instituto de Medicina Molecular Joao Lobo Antunes (iMM; Portugal) has discovered that a human enzyme named FANCM (Fanconi anemia, complementation group M) is required for the survival of ALT tumor cells. The results are published in the open access journal Nature Communications. Future strategies targeting the activity of this molecule in ALT tumor cells could constitute the basis of a novel therapeutic protocol for the treatment of these tumors. ALT tumors comprise approximately 10 percent of human tumors, and often develop in children (for example, in juvenile osteosarcoma) and they are particularly resistant to conventional chemotherapy. "Contrary to the canonical telomere elongation mechanism that activates the enzyme telomerase, these tumor cells specifically use this alternative pathway, which is insensitive to therapeutic approaches based on telomerase inhibition," explains Claus M. Azzalin, group leader at iMM. "Previous studies have shown that a sustained physiological telomere damage must be maintained in these cells to promote telomere elongation. This scenario implies that telomeric damage levels be maintained within a specific threshold that is high enough to trigger telomere elongation, yet not too high to induce cell death," says Bruno Silva, first author of the study. Using a series of experiments based on molecular biology, cell biology and biochemistry, the research team found an essential role for FANCM, a component of the DNA damage repair machinery. "What we have found is that ALT cells require the activity of the FANCM in order to prevent telomere instability and consequent cell death," says Bruno Silva. "When we remove FANCM from ALT tumor cells, telomeres become heavily damaged and cells stop dividing and die very quickly. This is not observed in tumor cells that express telomerase activity or in healthy cells, meaning that is a specific feature of ATL tumor cells," explains Claus M. Azzalin. "In our view, this is very exciting, because it indicates that transiently drugging FANCM activity in ALT cells should lead to very fast cell death specifically in these cells, and sets the potential basis for an alternative therapeutic protocol for this type of tumor," adds Claus Azzalin. Explore further Scientists find mechanisms to avoid telomere instability found in cancer and aging cells More information: Bruno Silva, Richard Pentz, Ana Margarida Figueira, Rajika Arora, Yong Woo Lee, Charlotte Hodson, Harry Wischnewski, Andrew J. Deans, and Claus M. Azzalin (2019) FANCM limits ALT activity by restricting telomeric replication stress induced by deregulated BLM and R-loops. Nature Communications. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-10179-z Journal information: Nature Communications Bruno Silva, Richard Pentz, Ana Margarida Figueira, Rajika Arora, Yong Woo Lee, Charlotte Hodson, Harry Wischnewski, Andrew J. Deans, and Claus M. Azzalin (2019) FANCM limits ALT activity by restricting telomeric replication stress induced by deregulated BLM and R-loops. Provided by Instituto de Medicina Molecular CBD from extracts of cannabis or hemp plants could be used to treat epilepsy and other conditions. UC Davis chemists have come up with a way to make a synthetic version of CBD and showed that it is as effective as herbal CBD in treating seizures in rats. Left to right: chemical structures of THC and CBD from plants, and of synthetic H2CBD. Credit: Mascal laboratory, UC Davis A synthetic, non-intoxicating analogue of cannabidiol (CBD) is effective in treating seizures in rats, according to research by chemists at the University of California, Davis. The synthetic CBD alternative is easier to purify than a plant extract, eliminates the need to use agricultural land for hemp cultivation, and could avoid legal complications with cannabis-related products. The work was recently published in the journal Scientific Reports. "It's a much safer drug than CBD, with no abuse potential and doesn't require the cultivation of hemp," said Mark Mascal, professor in the UC Davis Department of Chemistry. Mascal's laboratory at UC Davis carried out the work in collaboration with researchers at the University of Reading, U.K. Products containing CBD have recently become popular for their supposed health effects and because the compound does not cause a high. CBD is also being investigated as a pharmaceutical compound for conditions including anxiety, epilepsy, glaucoma and arthritis. But because it comes from extracts of cannabis or hemp plants, CBD poses legal problems in some states and under federal law. It is also possible to chemically convert CBD to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the intoxicating compound in marijuana. 8,9-Dihydrocannabidiol (H2CBD) is a synthetic molecule with a similar structure to CBD. Mascal's laboratory developed a simple method to inexpensively synthesize H2CBD from commercially available chemicals. "Unlike CBD, there is no way to convert H2CBD to intoxicating THC," he said. One important medical use of cannabis and CBD is in treatment of epilepsy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved an extract of herbal CBD for treating some seizure conditions and there is also strong evidence from animal studies. The researchers tested synthetic H2CBD against herbal CBD in rats with induced seizures. H2CBD and CBD were found to be equally effective for the reduction of both the frequency and severity of seizures. Mascal is working with colleagues at the UC Davis School of Medicine to carry out more studies in animals with a goal of moving into clinical trials soon. UC Davis has applied for a provisional patent on antiseizure use of H2CBD and its analogues, and Mascal has founded a company, Syncanica, to continue development. Explore further FDA casts shadow on hemp win, calling CBD products illegal More information: Mark Mascal et al, Synthetic, non-intoxicating 8,9-dihydrocannabidiol for the mitigation of seizures, Scientific Reports (2019). Journal information: Scientific Reports Mark Mascal et al, Synthetic, non-intoxicating 8,9-dihydrocannabidiol for the mitigation of seizures,(2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44056-y In this Friday, May 17, 2019 photo, Starr Roden, left, a registered nurse and immunization outreach coordinator with the Knox County Health Department, administers a vaccination to Jonathan Detweiler, 6, at the facility in Mount Vernon, Ohio. States are debating whether to make it more difficult for students to avoid vaccinations for religious or philosophical reasons amid the worst measles outbreak in decades, but children using such waivers are outnumbered in many states by those who give no excuse for lacking shots.Data reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows a majority of unvaccinated or undervaccinated kindergartners in 10 of 27 states reporting were allowed to enroll in school without any exemption. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon) States are heatedly debating whether to make it more difficult for students to avoid vaccinations for religious or philosophical reasons amid the worst measles outbreak in decades, but schoolchildren using such waivers are outnumbered in many states by those who give no excuse at all for lacking their shots. A majority of unvaccinated or undervaccinated kindergartners in at least 10 states were allowed to enroll provisionally for the last school year, without any formal exemption, according to data reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Only 27 states submitted information about the group, so the true size of the problem is unknown. Poor access to health care keeps some of those children from getting inoculated against some of the most preventable contagious diseases, but for others the reasons are more mundane. "It really could just be, 'I didn't have time to go to the doctor,' or 'I just don't want to do this,'" said Melissa Arnold, CEO of the American Academy of Pediatrics' Ohio chapter. "From a public health standpoint, we really don't know." Experts say it's likely that many or even most of those children ultimately get all their vaccinations, as state laws require, but no one knows for sure. It's neither tracked nor required to be. That leaves officials with a maddening lack of information as vaccination rates inch downward and diseases like measles, once declared eradicated, reemerge. The CDC has called on education officials to do more to ensure that those children get vaccinated, and state health and education departments routinely issue reminders. But for school officials, complying with state mandates that require children be vaccinated in order to attend class can sometimes require choosing between educating students and safeguarding public health. In this Friday, May 17, 2019 photo, a dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccination is seen at the Knox County Health Department in Mount Vernon, Ohio. States are debating whether to make it more difficult for students to avoid vaccinations for religious or philosophical reasons amid the worst measles outbreak in decades, but children using such waivers are outnumbered in many states by those who give no excuse for lacking shots. Data reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows a majority of unvaccinated or undervaccinated kindergartners in 10 of 27 states reporting were allowed to enroll in school without any exemption. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon) "At the heart of our purpose is to have children in school; that's our role as school nurses," said Kate King, a board member at the Ohio Association of School Nursing. "We don't want to exclude them. So that's our dilemma." All 50 states allow students to receive exemptions from vaccinations for medical reasons. But formal vaccine exemptions for religious or philosophical reasons have recently come under fire as the CDC has confirmed 880 measles cases in 24 states since January, the greatest number since 1994. But children whose vaccinations are incomplete for other reasons can't be ignored. Of the 27 states that reported data on that group for the 2017-2018 school year, Arkansas had the highest percentage of kindergarten students enrolled without complete vaccinations and without invoking a medical, religious or philosophical exemption, according to the CDC . In Ohio, that figure was 5.3%, the second highest. Georgia and Hawaii were lowest, at 0.2%. Neither Ohio nor Arkansas has any measles cases yet this year, but health officials say the percentages of unvaccinated children are a worry. A 95% immunization rate is considered necessary to achieve group resistance to the spread of a contagious disease, officials said. "If it gets here, it will be bad," King said of Ohio. In the 10 states where unvaccinated kindergartners lacking exemptions outnumbered unvaccinated kindergartners who invoked them, the figures were striking: Only about 15,000 children were using exemptions compared to almost 27,000 who weren't. Overall, the 27 states reported about 60,000 kindergartners who were unvaccinated without exemptions and about 70,000 who used them. In this Friday, May 17, 2019 photo, Starr Roden, left, a registered nurse and immunization outreach coordinator with the Knox County Health Department, administers a vaccination to Jonathan Detweiler, 6, at the facility in Mount Vernon, Ohio. States are debating whether to make it more difficult for students to avoid vaccinations for religious or philosophical reasons amid the worst measles outbreak in decades, but children using such waivers are outnumbered in many states by those who give no excuse for lacking shots.Data reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows a majority of unvaccinated or undervaccinated kindergartners in 10 of 27 states reporting were allowed to enroll in school without any exemption. ((AP Photo/Paul Vernon) States provide anywhere from a few days to many months for students to get vaccinated, but officials in charge of the vaccination data for several different states said no system is in place to go back and check whether children ever get caught up. Once a grace period expires, barring a student from attending school can be a tough call, risking the child's educational outcomes and, in some urban districts, their safety. In Pennsylvania, officials recently shrank the state's eight-month grace period to just five days, said Cindy Findley, the state's acting deputy secretary for health promotion and disease prevention. The shorter window brings more focus and resources to the issue at the busy start of school. "What we'd find is children would go through the entire school year and not be up-to-date with their vaccinations and basically carry on to the next age group," she said. Other states, including Arkansas and Indiana, now require public reporting of kindergarten immunization rates by schools, and Colorado has made the information easier to access. Dr. Jennifer Dillaha, medical director for immunizations at the Arkansas Department of Health, said the idea is to draw attention to the issue and to provide parents with information that might affect their choice of school. The CDC theorizes that "vaccine hesitancy"fueled by a vocal anti-vaccination movement that contends some shots are unsafe despite overwhelming evidence to the contraryhas contributed to rising levels of unvaccinated schoolchildren in the U.S. But in Arkansas, Dillaha said, the issue is access. Most Arkansas children are on Medicaid, health insurance for low-income residents, and 16 of 75 Arkansas counties have only the local health department to turn to for vaccinations, she said. That means no doctor's offices, clinics or corner pharmacies to make the procedure convenient. In this Friday, May 17, 2019 a sign stands advertising school vaccines and physical exams sits in front of the Knox County Health Department in Mount Vernon, Ohio. States are debating whether to make it more difficult for students to avoid vaccinations for religious or philosophical reasons amid the worst measles outbreak in decades, but children using such waivers are outnumbered in many states by those who give no excuse for lacking shots.Data reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows a majority of unvaccinated or undervaccinated kindergartners in 10 of 27 states reporting were allowed to enroll in school without any exemption. ((AP Photo/Paul Vernon) "We have a weak immunization infrastructure," she said. "Consequently, because there are access issues, it varies from school to school how rigidly they enforce attendance requirements for vaccinations." In Ohio, state data show the number of unvaccinated students remains high as students go through the school system, with 10% of seventh graders last year undervaccinated without invoking an exemption. Ohio's last measles outbreak occurred in 2014 Knox County and was traced to the local Amish community, where vaccination rates trail the general population's because their traditional lifestyle tends to eschew anything but the most vital medical care, said Pam Palm, a spokeswoman for the Knox County Health Department. But even with that history, officials try to be flexible. Steve Larcomb, superintendent of the East Knox Local Schools in Knox County, recalled accommodating a parent who was new to the district, busy moving and awaiting a child's doctor's appointment five weeks in the future. "We try not to draw too many lines in the sand and be too hard core, because we understand family situations," Larcomb said. Explore further Florida measles threat grows as more young children go unvaccinated 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. Credit: Yale University Introducing a typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV) into routine child vaccine schedules and conducting a catch-up campaign to vaccinate all children up to age 15 is a cost-effective solution for many low- to middle-income countries severely burdened by typhoid, a new study led by researchers at the Yale School of Public Health finds. The study is the first comprehensive analysis of the cost-effectiveness of different typhoid vaccination strategies for 54 countries hit hardest by typhoidprimarily located in Asia and sub-Saharan Africaand where funding from Gavi, an international organization dedicated to vaccine introduction, is available. The study published Thursday in Lancet Infectious Diseasesanalyzed disease transmission rates, hospitalizations, mortality rates, vaccine-related costs and the financial resources of each country. Extensive computer modeling and analysis were applied to evaluate four strategies: no vaccination, routine immunization at nine months, or routine immunization at nine months with catch-up campaigns to either age 5 or age 15. An optimum strategy for a country was considered one that maximized the average net monetary benefit. "We have provided all of the information for decision-makers to evaluate whether the typhoid conjugate vaccine is a good value," said Virginia Pitzer, associate professor of epidemiology at the Yale School of Public Health and the study's senior author. "Now each country will have the information needed to decide for itself whether or not to apply for Gavi funding to introduce the vaccine." Typhoid is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by the bacteria Salmonella Typhi. It impacts over 10 million people a year and is spread through contaminated food and water, usually due to inadequate sanitation and water infrastructures in low- and middle-income countries. While global incidence of typhoid has declined in recent years, prolonged multi-year outbreaks continue to pose a public health threat. Climate change, urbanization and increasing drug resistance have contributed to the significant health and economic burden that typhoid places on families and communities. The typhoid conjugate vaccine, Typbar-TCV, was recently approved by the World Health Organization and is currently recommended as part of an integrated approach to controlling the disease along with improvements in water, sanitation and hygiene. The conjugate vaccine overcomes many of the limitations of earlier typhoid vaccines: it offers longer-lasting protection, requires fewer doses and is suitable for children as young as 6 months of age, allowing it to be included in routine childhood immunization programs. "Expanding access to, and coverage of, TCVs can protect children and adolescents from illness, reduce the need for antibiotics, slow emergence of drug-resistant strains, and save lives," said Dr. Kathleen Neuzil, director of the Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and director of the Typhoid Vaccine Acceleration Consortium (TyVAC). TyVAC, one of the funders of the study, is a partnership between the Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, the Oxford Vaccine Group at the University of Oxford and PATH, an international nonprofit, that aims to accelerate the introduction of TCVs into low-resource settings. Individual country reports on the cost-effectiveness and potential benefits of TCV can be found at the Together We Can Take On Typhoid website. The study was led by Pitzer and Professor A. David Paltiel, co-directors of the Yale School of Public Health's Modeling Concentration, in close collaboration with a team in the Center for Health Economics and Modelling Infectious Diseases (CHERMID) at the University of Antwerp in Belgium. Other collaborators included experts from the University of Oxford and the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Uncertainty surrounding the probability of hospitalization, typhoid incidence and mortality rates had the greatest influence on a country's optimal vaccination strategy, the researchers said. But such unknowns should not deter decision-makers. "For some countries, substantial uncertainty exists around the optimal vaccination strategy," said the study's lead author Joke Bilcke, a postdoctoral researcher and lecturer at CHERMID, part of the Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute at the University of Antwerp, Belgium. "Nevertheless, this should not preclude the introduction of TCV. Decisions need to be made in the context of uncertainty, and the strategy of choice in terms of cost-effectiveness should be the one with the highest expected net benefit." Explore further Researchers unveil progress and challenges in introducing typhoid conjugate vaccine in Africa/Asia More information: Joke Bilcke et al. Cost-effectiveness of routine and campaign use of typhoid Vi-conjugate vaccine in Gavi-eligible countries: a modelling study, The Lancet Infectious Diseases (2019). Journal information: Lancet Infectious Diseases Joke Bilcke et al. Cost-effectiveness of routine and campaign use of typhoid Vi-conjugate vaccine in Gavi-eligible countries: a modelling study,(2019). DOI: 10.1016/S1473-3099(18)30804-1 A major national study based in the North East has recommended a number of improvements which would place young people with long-term health conditions at the heart of their NHS care. The research, by Newcastle University, Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and other UK institutions, has concluded that introducing six key factors would be likely to improve the health and experiences of young people moving from children's to adults' services. The five-year programme examined the period when young people with conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, chronic mental health problems and muscular dystrophy transfer from children's to adults' servicesknown as 'transition'. Typically this occurs between the ages of 14 and 21. The research recommended that discussions should take place with young people about their individual approach to healthcare in order to personalise communication with them. Better outcomes for patients Promoting young people's confidence in managing their own health, involving parents appropriately and meeting the adult team prior to transferring were associated with better outcomes for patients, the study also found. With regards to 'transitional' services, the study suggested developing those which take into account the changing physical, social and psychological needs of young people. It also recommended clinicians from adults' and children's services coming together with GPs to plan health services, NHS trusts adopting an organisational-wide approach to implementing them and commissioners of adult services being involved in developing them alongside commissioners of children's services. The study, published today by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), is the most comprehensive to date, involving around 400 young people, aged 14-18 years, with long-term health conditions from 27 NHS trusts across the UK. The research findings have already been put into practice at Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust and informed the transition content in the NHS' Long Term Plan and NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidance. Professor Allan Colver, who was consultant paediatrician at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, and is currently professor of community child health at Newcastle University, led the programme. He said: "We all know that the teenage years are challenging and when a young person is also dealing with living with a long-term condition, it can add additional strain to what can already be a difficult period of their lives. "The process of moving from children's services, where everything tends to be organised by children's services and parents, to adults' services, where young people take more responsibility for their healthcare, can be disorientating. "Due to their brain development, young people's ability to manage time, plan and multi-task has not matured fully and as a result, they can be not well-organised and consultations with clinical staff may be confusing both for young people and staff. "Developing services which take account of a young person's stage of physical, social and psychological developmentknown as 'developmentally-appropriate healthcare' which put them at the heart of their care is needed. "For example, clinical staff should consider re-sending an appointment to a 17-year-old who has missed one without explanation; whereas for a 30-year-old, the policy of many NHS trusts is for no further appointment to be sent. "We're pleased that our findings are already being used to make a difference to young people and, now that our recommendations have been published, we hope that they will help to improve the healthcare of young people across the country." Sir James Mackey, chief executive of Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We're delighted that this major piece of researchthe first for our trust to be awarded a programme grant from the NIHRhas concluded. "This is such a significant area of healthcare at a crucial part in teenagers' lives and these findings have the potential to benefit young people nation-wide. "I'd like to thank Prof Colver and the team for shining a light on this important issue." Patient meets adult team to help ease transition Jessica Onyebuchi, 17, has had chronic arthritis since the age of 11. Over the years she has needed to stay overnight in hospital, have regular hospital appointments and medication to bring her condition under control so that she can usually be free of pain and able to do what she wants. Jessica, from Gateshead, said she is 'apprehensive' about transition however it has helped to meet the doctor in the adult team, at a different hospital, to whom her care will transfer in due course. She said: "Transition is a big deal to me because there are so many other things going on in my lifeexams, friendships and so on. As arthritis really affects me, I can't forget about it. "My mother is still involved, but gradually more of the discussions are with me by myself which is daunting." Explore further Inpatient care for young people with mental health issues varies significantly by country The Montana Supreme Court has picked Sheila Stearns, the former state Commissioner of Higher Education, as the fifth member and chair of the commission that will redraw state legislative districts and possibly split Montana in half if the state gains a second congressional district after the 2020 U.S. Census. The court made the decision when the Montana Districting and Apportionment Commission could not decide on its fifth member after soliciting applications from the public. The fifth commissioner and chair will play a critical role in resolving disputes between the four other commissioners, two of whom were appointed by Democrats in the state Legislature and two appointed by Republicans. The other commissioners are Jeff Essmann, appointed by Senate Majority Leader Fred Thomas, R-Stevensville; Joe Lamson, appointed by Senate Minority Leader Jon Sesso, D-Butte; Dan Stusek, appointed by House Majority Leader Brad Tschida, R-Missoula; and Kendra Miller, appointed by House Minority Leader Casey Schreiner, D-Great Falls. Essmann, a former state representative from Billings who attended the court's meeting Tuesday, had called for more time to allow public comment on the court's suggestions, which also included former U.S. Magistrate Judge Carolyn Ostby, of Billings. "There is no need for haste in your decision," Essmann said, noting the commission will not start its work in earnest until the fall and that census results will not be available for another 22 months. "We have some time to use a rigorous process and allow meaningful participation." Though Justice Laurie McKinnon made a motion to allow for a longer process and more public comment, the court did not approve the suggestion and then selected Stearns. McKinnon and Justice Beth Baker voted for Ostby, but both said they supported Stearns as well. Baker called for gender equality on the board, which after Stearns' appointment has two women and three men. Justice Dirk Sandefur suggested Stearns during the meeting. He praised her resume, saying he thought Stearns would be an ideal nonpartisan leader. McKinnon asked if Stearns had experience as a mediator, and Chief Justice Mike McGrath said he viewed the higher education commissioner post as "the hardest position in terms of resolving difficult, hard-pressed decisions." Stearns held the job from 2003-2012. Stearns also served as interim president of the University of Montana from late 2016 to early 2018. She has also been the head of the university's Alumni Association and University Relations. The Glendive native has several degrees from UM, including a bachelor's in English and history, as well as a doctorate in educational administration and supervisions. McGrath opposed extending the process, saying other commission members did not undergo the same scrutiny that an extended comment period might allow for the names put forward by the court Tuesday. McGrath said changing the process could also open it up to politicization. Stearns did not apply when the commission solicited applications. In a May 13 meeting, the two Republicans and two Democrats could not decide on a chair because of concerns about partisanship, triggering the court to make the selection. After the meeting, Essmann said he hopes Stearns will be a "neutral arbiter" and that he was disappointed the court did not allow for more comment. The court has picked the fifth member of the commission, which meets every 10 years with the U.S. Census cycle, almost every time since the 1970s after members could not agree on their chairperson. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Oli to attend Modis swearing-in in New Delhi on Thursday Modis swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 7pm on Thursday. Oli is scheduled to arrive in the Indian Capital on Thursday itself Please ask Donald Trump to leave office immediately. You don't want a war with Iran, do you? Don't you want American farmers to sell their products overseas? Don't you believe that we need more immigrants, and it's the right thing to do to admit most of those waiting at our southern border? Aren't we a democracy, which stands up to dictators, autocrats, human rights abusers? Aren't we a nation comprised of many races and religions, with no single one at the top? Isn't global warming real? Don't you want to have policies and actions that address this crisis? OK then, you know what you have to do, don't you? It's not like we have to install a guillotine in front of the White House or have daily hangings, but obviously, we're not going to have a country, a society worth living in, as long as Trump Inc. runs the show. Maybe he could replace Alex Baldwin on Saturday Night Live and be the real thing. What do you think? Ross Stenseth, Aizuwakamatsu, Japan You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 6 Funny 4 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 6 Jan. 25, 1960-May 25, 2019 On May 25, 2019 our beloved father, son, brother and friend Daniel Danny Martin McGrath went to be with our lord after a valiant fight with ALS (Lou Gehrigs disease). Danny was born January 25, 1960 to Dan and Jean (Martin) McGrath at Fairchild AFB, WA. He was raised in Spokane, Puerto Rico, Louisiana, Guam, and Cheyenne finally making his home in Butte his freshman year in high school. He graduated from Butte Central as valedictorian and as best athlete in his graduation class. He then went to Montana Tech and MSU graduating with Petroleum and Mathematics degrees. After graduation he taught at Northwest College in Powell, WY. before becoming a professor at Western in Dillon. In Dillon, Dan met Brenda Craft, they were married and had 4 children, Lane, MacKenzie, Dan, and Allie. In 1992, Dan was diagnosed with ALS and chose to go on a ventilator in 1994 so he could see his children grow. Brenda and Danny later divorced but remained friends and were diligent to raise wonderful children who were the reason Danny chose to live. The love Danny had for his children cannot be put into words but could be seen in the way he fought to live to watch them grow. His love will be with them always. Danny was preceded in death by his grandparents Frank and Pat Martin, Nig McGrath and June Ose, father Dan McGrath, sisters Debbie Hollow and Susie Grosso, aunts Rosie Anderson and Patsy Harrington, uncles and aunts Ross and Sissy Smathers and Jerry and Carol McGrath, and best friend Dave Morris. In addition to his children, Lane, MacKenzie, Dan and Allie, he leaves behind his mother Jean who cared for him over the years, his brother Jim (Tracy) McGrath, Brother in law Tino Grosso, aunts Joan Thompson, Katie (Bill) Halvorson, uncles Lee Anderson, Ed Harrington, and Jack McGrath and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends especially John Mike, Mindy, Jordan, and Makena who lived with him for many years. Danny was very fortunate to have loving friends who visited him as often as they could. A big thank you to Pat ODell and family, Dave ORourke and family, Catherine Cox, and Butte Central class of 1978. Danny also had the best care a person could have. The family will forever be grateful for his home care nurses. A special thanks to uncles Lee Anderson and Ed Harrington for all the help during the years. The family would also like to thank the doctors, nurses, and respiratory specialists at St. James for their compassionate care. Also, a special thanks to Father Haffey, Father Porter, and Deacon John Uggetti. Rest in peace Danny. Your journey here is done. Friends and relatives may call on Wednesday after 5:00 PM in the Duggan Dolan Mortuary Chapel. Parish Vigil will be recited at 7:00 PM in the Mortuary Chapel. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday at 11:00 am in St. Anns Catholic Church. Rite of Committal will follow in Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests to please make donations to the ALS Foundation or Butte Central Catholic Education Foundation. Two new dollar stores Dollar Tree and Family Dollar are coming to the space that Stokes Market has occupied since 2015 and that previously housed Albertson's in the Butte Town Center strip mall on Harrison Avenue. Dollar Tree Inc., which owns and operates both Dollar Tree and Family Dollar, announced the plan in a press release issued Tuesday. Stokes announced its planned closure in April. At the time, John Stokes, co-owner and president of the Idaho-based grocery chain, said the store's closure would allow the company to more than double the size of the True Value hardware store that shared Stokes' space. The new Dollar Tree will occupy 10,000 square feet, while Family Dollar will occupy just over that, at 10,700 square feet. Both are scheduled to open in late September. According to Stokes, plans for the renovation of Butte Town Center place True Value in the center of the complex, where the grocery now resides. The two discount chains, meanwhile, will flank the expanded hardware store, with Dollar Tree to the south and Family Dollar to the north. The entire building and mezzanine is around 38,000 square feet, Stokes said. The company originally planned on an 18,000-square foot True Value store, but the discount retailers ended up needing more space than anticipated. To accommodate the new stores, Stokes said, True Value will tentatively occupy around 17,300 square feet. Stokes spoke favorably of his new tenants Tuesday. Its going to provide people in the community with another option, he said. I think its a great addition to the community." According to Tuesday's release, Dollar Tree stores offer merchandise all priced at $1 or less, while Family Dollar's prices typically range between $1 and $10. The latter carries a variety of food products in addition to other merchandise. The planned renovation of 1301 Harrison Ave. marks Family Dollars first store in Butte, which already has a Dollar Tree at 3937 Harrison Ave. Tuesday's news release did not indicate whether or not the south Harrison location will remain open. The Montana Standard was unable to reach the company for clarification by press time Tuesday. Dollar Tree and Family Dollar continue to grow and we are proud to be part of the Butte community, said Kayleigh M. Painter, Dollar Trees investor and media relations manager, in the company's release. Love 9 Funny 5 Wow 4 Sad 3 Angry 13 Accolades continue to roll in for law enforcement's rescue efforts in locating the "miracle" baby in the Lolo National Forest last year. Few cases, if any, in Missoula during 2018 were more memorable: A family member wildly high on drugs had left the 5-month-old boy there partially buried, while law enforcement scanned the 2 million-acre woods for more than six hours before finding him. Bureau of Land Management Ranger Kelly Cole was awarded for his role in that effort this month, named the BLM's Ranger of the Year for 2018. Cole received the award at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., as part of the bureau's observance of National Police Week. Reached by phone this week for comment about the award, Cole was humble. "To be honest with you," he said, "it's hard to accept the award. It's humbling, just for the sake of the fact that just seeing this kid alive was all worth it." City, county, state and federal law enforcement scrambled into the woods that day last July, finding Francis Crowley and, separately, the baby, who aside from some minor scratches and a soiled diaper, was relatively unharmed. Cole, the only BLM law enforcement officer in the Missoula area, said his relationship with local law enforcement allowed his role in the effort to be a meaningful one. A BLM officer since 2007 who landed in the Missoula area four years ago, Cole said the sheriff's office here "adopted me." "There's something unique about the law enforcement community in Missoula," he said. "All the departments in this county, it's just amazing the relationships we have, and we help each other out." Cole, also a field training officer, and a trainee were working together that day when a report came from the Lolo Hot Springs about an unruly man threatening people with a gun. They arrived and began by taking the direction set by the sheriff's office command post, rooting through the woods one grid at a time. At one point, Cole and his trainee came upon the camp inhabited by Crowley and family. Nearby, at what Cole described as an "overlook point" near the entrance of camp, they found a shotgun. "So we saw this shotgun, everything tied that shotgun back to (Crowley)," Cole said. Crowley was already a felon at that time. Several shells around the camp had already been spent. The rest of the story has been told: Missoula County Sheriff's Deputy Ross Jessop and U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officer Nick Scholz located the baby alive; Crowley was arrested, charged, and later convicted on child endangerment charges. He now faces a federal charge related to the shotgun Cole and his trainee found. That case is ongoing. Sholz and Patrick Legg, another U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officer on the scene that day, were awarded during National Police Week as well for their efforts. It was nearly 5:30 a.m. when Cole finished logging the shotgun into evidence and filed the reports. Rather than heading home, he went to the hospital, whether other law enforcement officers were spending time with the baby. "I've been around drownings before where kids have been involved, fall into a river and we're frantically searching for the kids, coming up with heartbreak in the end," Cole said. "So this was really special." It wasn't the search and rescue effort alone last July that earned Cole the Ranger of the Year honor. His role as a field training officer is mentioned in a release about the award from BLM, as well as a November incident in which he responded to a county sheriff's report of a man threatening violence, and successfully talked the man down. "It's not just BLM, he's a member of the local law enforcement team, which I think is important," Missoula BLM Field Office Manager Joe Ashor told the Missoulian. "The bottom line is Kelly consistently goes above and beyond the line of duty. He shows compassion when needed and the tough side when needed as well." Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 May 12 was a special Mothers Day for me, having just given birth to my first child Ruby only nine weeks earlier. The first two months of motherhood have been an incredible adventure with highs and lows. The challenges of motherhood have dimmed in comparison to the joy of helping Ruby navigate this brand new world; they have also been softened by the outpouring of kindness from others. Friends stopping by with home-cooked meals, family sending gift cards for last minute expenses, and kind neighbors taking a babysitting shift while I head to doctor appointments. Without our community of support, parenting would have been next to impossible these first few months of Rubys life. From family and neighbor support to good policies that provide a safety net during the critical time period of pregnancy and early parenthood, Montanans understand that it takes a village to raise a child. However, without good policies in place, privilege and chance determine access to things like health insurance, reliable housing, paid family leave, affordable child care, and the ability to receive safe medical services for all pregnancy outcomes, including miscarriage management, delivery or abortion. Being able to spend these first two months with Ruby because of paid family leave offered through Forward Montana, the organization I work for, has allowed Ruby and me time to recover and bond. While Im grateful for this time, I know that most parents dont have this option. In fact only 13% of Americans have paid family leave. Furthermore, the Family Medical Leave Act, which requires large employers to offer unpaid leave, only applies to 1 out of 3 Montanans. How many young Montanans can take unpaid time off work, while also paying down on debt and providing for a new child? Is it any wonder, that despite a growing economy last year, the United States saw the lowest number of births in over three decades, according to a recent CDC report? Every other industrialized nation offers paid family leave, and some states have been providing paid leave for over a decade. Paid leave programs support parents when they have a new child, and workers when theyre seriously ill or caring for a family member with a serious illness. Check out the Time for Montana campaign (timeformontana.org) to learn more about paid family leave and sick days in Montana. Paid leave is only a starting point for re-imagining a system that supports families and addresses inequalities. The United States is the only industrialized nation in which maternal mortality rates continue to climb with Native American mothers dying at a rate 2.5 times greater than white mothers, and black mothers dying at a rate that's 3.3 times greater than white mothers. A new study from the CDC indicates that 60% of these deaths are preventable. From providing comprehensive health care and paid family leave to addressing racial bias in our health care system, its time we demand more for Montanas moms and families. When Ruby and her generation are old enough to become parents, it will ultimately be the failure of our generations imagination and determination if their healthy start as parents is limited by their zip code, race, employer, or health insurance status. Rachel Huff-Doria is executive director of Forward Montana, a statewide organization that builds political power with and for young Montanans by driving a culture of civic engagement. She lives with her family in Missoula and is currently on family leave. Love 0 Funny 5 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Unable to come to an agreement 18 days earlier regarding a protest of upgrades to Hell Creek State Park, the Montana State Parks and Recreation Board on Tuesday wasted no time in unanimously agreeing to deny the petition. Friends of Hell Creek had appealed a Montana State Parks decision to build a new 25,000-gallon potable water system and wastewater treatment system for the fish-cleaning station at the park on the southern shore of Fort Peck Reservoir citing several issues, including that the agency did not attempt to work with the group to resolve their complaints. The group had also claimed that building the facilities on the 55 acres used by the Hell Creek Marina concessionaires, Clint and Deb Thomas, limited their ability to expand the business, and that their lease agreement did not allow permanent structures to be built on the land. The appeal was denied at all levels of department review leaving the board as the groups last hope. Friends of Hell Creek president Jim Gustafson said the group will discuss whether to pursue remedy in district court, where they had filed a request for a temporary restraining order. That hearing was canceled after Montana State Parks halted its construction work in August before dealing with the Friends of Hell Creeks appeal. Theres no timeline yet to restart the project, said Greg Lemon, Communication and Education Division administrator for Fish, Wildlife & Parks. We certainly feel an obligation to the visitors at the park to provide good services. OKd After debating the issue back and forth at its May 10 meeting, the parks board made quick work of the issue Tuesday. I feel the board made the right decision to delay a vote until more information could be provided, said board member Scott Brown, of Billings. I for one feel much better informed. He called the project to build a new water system for the good of Hell Creek State Park and all of its visitors and suggested construction begin as soon as possible. Board member Mary Sheehy Moe, of Helena, had argued most strenuously at the last meeting that a vote be delayed over concerns that the public comment process may have been muddled. On Tuesday she had no objections. I was very pleased with the thoroughness of the response and abundance of evidence that addressed the questions I had, she said. In a follow-up call after the meeting, Moe said the department had laid out their argument well, with ample information showing the staff had attempted to work with the Friends of Hell Creek in accordance with department rules. The two other board members, Betty Stone and Erica Lighthiser, echoed praise for the additional information provided to them. I feel very comfortable moving forward with this decision, Lighthiser said. Now what? Gustafson could not attend the meeting, but in an email he wrote, After everything that has transpired at Hell Creek State Park these last couple of days and what I have heard from the witness, I feel stronger than ever that there are more important issues at stake then a septic and water system and it location! If MTSP or the board disregard my appeal, I will be forced to appeal this decision back to district court in Miles City. State Fish, Wildlife and Parks attorney Aimee Hawkaluk had defended Montana State Parks protest process and the project at the May 10 board hearing, saying that the states contract with the Thomases clearly allows construction on the 55 acres included in their lease. The aging water systems infrastructure has been in need of replacement for nine years and has suffered numerous breakdowns in the interim, Hawkaluk said. Delaying the work only drives up the cost, she added. When it went out for bid, the project was estimated to cost $773,000. The state has justified making such expensive improvements to a park it had suggested it may abandon by citing human health and safety concerns. Friends of Hell Creek had argued that the state hadnt considered other, less costly, alternatives, such as getting rid of the parks shower facilities. The group also said the new fish cleaning stations sewage system would be unable to handle the ground up waste, leading to future problems. Up in air Still left unaddressed is a 2015 decision by the previous parks board and administrator to not renew the lease for Hell Creek State Park from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 2021 unless the cost of the facility can be shared with partners, since the park continually operates at a loss. Moe said the current board has not discussed the issue. Lemon, of FWP, said his agency planned to visit with the parks board about the Corps lease issue at its September meeting. In the recent legislative session a bill was passed that would require any proposal to divest a state park to "be approved by the Legislature in the next regular legislative session." Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 But some progress was made. "In consultation with the city of Davenport, CP is installing four temporary crossings in downtown Davenport," company spokesman Andy Cummings wrote in an email late last week. "Marquette Street is complete, Perry Street and Harrison Street are in progress, and work is planned for next week at Gaines Street. "CP will continue to progress work at these crossings as weather allows." The crossing at the entrance to River Heritage Park also remains inaccessible, due to the height of the tracks. However, the sandbags that protect the raised rail remain in place, pending the next crest. The city was neither required to approve of nor inspect Canadian Pacific's work. The rail raising was done within the company's right-of-way, which means the city does not have the authority to dictate activities there. State law requires the railroad company to comply with the 30-day rule for restoring the crossings to passable condition. However, the recurring spring floods are buying the railroad more time. Achyut Wagle holds PhD in economics and is currently a professor at the Kathmandu University School of Management. He is an econo-political analyst, writing for The Kathmandu Post for many years. A laptop filled with six of the worlds most dangerous viruses and malware has sold for $1.2 million at auction, The Verge reported. The Samsung NC10 laptop that hosts the malware has been named The Persistence of Chaos by its creator, artist Guo O Dong, and was commissioned by cybersecurity firm Deep Instinct. The six viruses on the laptop are estimated to have caused a combined $95 billion in damages. Included in the six viruses is the infamous WannaCry, which caused nearly $4 billion in damage across about 150 countries, as well as MyDoom, which was the fastest-spreading email worm in history. The laptop will be used as an artistic creation only, the report stated, and is currently air-gapped to prevent it from being accessed. SEACOM announced that it has added eight new Points of Presence (PoPs) across Africa. The company extended its presence in Kenya by installing a new PoP in Mombasa, which connects Kenyas first open-access data centre onto its network. SEACOM said it has similar plans for new open-access PoPs which will be implemented in Nairobi and Kampala. In South Africa, SEACOM also deployed a new PoP inside the Teraco Bredell data centre, which the company said is a key location which caters specifically to content providers and enterprise customers. It will also serve as an important data recovery site for many operators, SEACOM said. SEACOMs PoPs bypass the public Internet in connecting company networks to digital solutions, offering line rates of up to 100Gbps and improved latency. The moves that SEACOM is making to improve our infrastructure on the continent will benefit African companies with greater high-speed, reliable and secure connectivity to cloud services and other online tools, the company said. Locals and visitors to the Napa Valley had something new to experience recently at Beekeeping Day, hosted by A & Bee Provisions. It was held at the Pestoni Family Estate Winery in St. Helena. Owner David Moreland and Brand Manager Scott Symon, both St. Helena residents, were on hand along with a group of their honey bee experts to answer questions and share their expertise. The reason we wanted to put on the event was to bring awareness to beekeeping and also to our company, Symon said. Weve heard a lot about beekeepers in the Valley that are suffering from losses and we want to share our knowledge with them and be a resource. We also wanted to let people know we will soon be selling our products through farmers markets in Napa and St. Helena. A & B Provisions has an office in Napa but grows its own almonds and walnuts on 1,000 acres of orchards in Waterford, California just east of Modesto. The growers also own and manage their own apiary of honey bees, which are essential to the pollination of the nuts they grow. Here in the Napa Valley, we are focused on grapes and bees have nothing to do with grape growing, Moreland said. But one in three bites in the world require pollination, so bees are really key to food production. Over 90 percent of food pollination is done by the honey bee, so as almond growers we wanted to manage our own bees instead of using other peoples, he added. We are a full circle orchard and apiary, Symon said. We grow the trees and we own our bees. So we can control what our bees are exposed to on our orchards, because were not renting our hives as most beekeepers do. Honey bee populations are decreasing around the globe due to climate change, pesticides and a bee-killing parasite called the Varroa mite. Bees are hard to manage, Symon said. Over the last 15 years, our biggest battle has been with the Varroa mite. Moreland pointed out that the Varroa mite is an invasive mite that came into the states from China. What the mite does essentially is attach to the bee making the bee a host. It weakens the immune system of the bee by sucking the life out of it. When the immune system is weakened, the bee is susceptible to native viruses, and most of them are lethal, he explained. The colony eventually dwindles until its not self-sufficient and it dies, which is also known as colony collapse. Because of the threat to honey bees, A & Bee Provisions spent years researching the blue orchard bee as an alternative pollinator. After attending an Almond Board presentation 12 years ago on the blue orchard bee as a pollinator, I decided to start a research company to look into the viability, Moreland said. Five years into it, we started to struggle and realized we were not going to be able to domesticate that pollinator. The veteran grower decided at that point the best thing to do was manage an apiary of their own. Its turned out to be the hardest thing Ive every done in my life, Moreland said. A & Bee sells its almonds all over the world by container load to food processors. California produces almost 80 percent of the worlds almonds, Moreland said. So the almond crop is very important to this state. California sells more than $5 billion in almonds every year predominately to other states and other countries. Almonds are an incredible protein because they have a really long shelf life, Moreland said. But if you buy a bag of almonds from a large retailer, that bag has likely been sitting there for quite awhile at temperatures that are not cold storage. We keep our nuts at cold storage as much as we can, and everybody that tastes them agrees that produces a significantly better taste, Moreland added. Almond-based products like milk and butter sell quickly. One of the products were most excited about is were going to be producing fresh almond milk and selling that through farmers markets in Napa and St. Helena initially, Symon said. A & Bee has only recently begun selling directly to the public through its website. We are selling almonds direct to the public now to see if we can increase our margins over just selling wholesale, Symon said. Studying the market, we know a lot of people these days are looking to source their food directly from the producer and have a more direct connection to their food. The products currently available are clover honey, bags of whole, natural almonds and pure beeswax. At its Beekeeping Day event, the company also had orange blossom honey and Waterford honey, made from its own bees, on hand for tasting. In addition, there were several flavors of almonds. Wed like to sell more flavors of almonds; right now we are working on getting the flavors right, Symon said. Wed actually like to have people start roasting our almonds at home because its easy to do and the flavors are so much better. To find out more about A & Bee Provisions, call 707-739-4097 or visit abeeprovisions.com. St. Helena and Calistoga school trustees are opposing a familys effort to adjust the district boundaries so that their children can go to school in St. Helena instead of Calistoga. The matter involves two homes on North Fork Crystal Springs Road owned by the Cook family, who have been attending St. Helena schools for four generations. Both parcels share a St. Helena mailing address, phone prefix and wine appellation, but it was discovered last year that they are within the Calistoga Joint Unified School District. The familys four children have been allowed to attend St. Helena schools on a provisional basis because a parent is employed as an AVID instructor at St. Helena High School. But with that policy changing, all four would have to transfer to Calistoga schools. The family says adjusting the boundary would give their children safer access to bus routes, eliminate geographic disparities resulting from an antiquated boundary line, and continue their generational lineage of attending St. Helena schools. The decision lies in the hands of the Napa County Board of Education, acting as the Napa County Committee on School District Organization. The committee held public hearings last Friday in St. Helena and Calistoga and tentatively plans to take action on June 11. The St. Helena and Calistoga school boards have passed resolutions opposing the familys petition. Calistoga trustees noted that the district stands to lose $46,474 in property tax revenue if the two parcels are mapped into the St. Helena school district. St. Helena trustees also noted the tax issue, passing a resolution stating it is important to be a good neighbor to surrounding school districts. Both school boards also agreed that the petition would set a troubling precedent and may lead to future petitions seeking to change districts boundaries to allow parents to send their children to their preferred district, rather than the district within whose boundaries they live. The boundary between the two districts is based on a line drawn in the Rancho Carne Humana land grant from 1841, which predates the homes on Crystal Spring Road. The Cooks have a long history of ties to the St. Helena community and its schools, and the quirky boundary had never been an issue until now, said Glenn Cook. Its an oddball situation caused by weird history, said Cook, who lives at one of the homes with his wife Gayle. The other home is occupied by the Cooks daughter, Shawn Moura, and her husband Paul. Shawn Moura said she discovered the issue when she registered her kids last year. Unfortunately, the school district line clips off our properties from all of the neighbors on our street, said Shawn Moura. Consequently, our St. Helena properties are misaligned with our school district. The family says it would be safer for their kids to catch the St. Helena bus on Crystal Springs Road, instead of having to walk along Silverado Trail to a Calistoga bus stop on Bale Lane. One of their neighbors, Susie Cardoza, was killed while walking down Silverado Trail last November. Calistoga trustees say the bus route could be changed to safely serve the students who live on Crystal Springs Road. 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. Napa County has a message for all of those who when disaster hits and the lights go out fumble around in the dark for flashlight batteries be prepared. Be prepared for a wildfire evacuation, possible multi-day PG&E public safety power shutoff during high fire-danger weather, an earthquake or whatever. Dont depend on the government to quickly come to the rescue. The county will try to drive the message home during its community open house and emergency preparedness fair. The event is from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 4 at the county administration building, 1195 Third St. in Napa. Quite honestly, weve done a poor job of educating our public, Sheriff John Robertson told the county Board of Supervisors on May 21. Not just us, but across the country. The emergency preparedness fair is part of an effort to change this dynamic. People attending can learn about emergency planning, evacuation routes and emergency kits. They can sign up for county Nixle alerts, if they havent already been to www.nixle.com to do so. It is time to present to the community the tools so they can prepare for the next thing, whether its a pandemic flu or whether its an earthquake, a fire, a flood who knows what its going to be, Robertson said. Robertson and other emergency officials updated the Board of Supervisors on the countys emergency preparedness efforts. PG&Es recent announcements about possible public power safety shutdowns add a new wrinkle to this years wildfire season. The utility is telling all of its 5 million-plus customers in the state to be ready for multi-day shutdowns during extreme weather to avoid having falling power lines spark fires. That would mean our entire county could go down, county Risk and Emergency Services Manager Kerry John Whitney said. The program in 2018 covered only power lines in the tier three areas that California Public Utilities Commission considers at extreme risk for wildfires. Calistoga last October had power cut for several days. That city is near tier three areas. This year, the program has been expanded to include transmission and distribution lines in tier two elevated fire threat areas. Although south county cities are in tier one areas that are not considered at elevated wildfire risk, they are near tier two areas. A PG&E report shows transmissions systems serving Napa Valley from St. Helena southward. The systems operate independently of each other. A set of 115 kilovolt lines crosses the tier three Mayacamas mountains near St. Helena and run south along the eastern valley to Napa, then heads west to Sonoma. It serves 60 percent of the customers in the area, the report said. Sixty kilovolt lines run from Fairfield-Suisun in Solano County over tier two hills to Napa to serve the remaining customers. They connect to substations on Burnell Street in Napa and other locations to reduce voltage for delivery to customers. Local officials arent making any predictions on the likelihood of a south county shutoff. Rather, Whitney urged people to make certain PG&E has their cell phone numbers so they can receive alerts from the utility. Go to https://bit.ly/2M6qfGs to update PG&E contact information. Some may say, Oh, they have it, I get my bills, Board of Supervisors Chair Ryan Gregory said. But theres a good chance they dont have your cell phone. PG&E is holding a wildfire safety open house from 6 to 8 p.m. June 26. It will be at the Embassy Suites Napa Valley Chardonnay ballroom, 1075 California Boulevard in Napa. Whitney said one challenge is making certain the medically fragile who rely on electricity are warned of pending power shutdowns. The medically fragile range from people on ventilators to those who need refrigerated medicines. PG&E officials say they will go and knock on doors of the medically fragile, if need be. But Whitney said the utilitys list is culled from customers receiving medical-related discounted rates and might total about 200 people. The county knows of 2,000 people who might be at risk. In effect, PG&Es not owning this piece, theyre owning their less than 200 residents that theyve identified as medically fragile, Whitney said. Weve got individuals who are exceeding that number. County Public Health is creating a plan for outreach to vulnerable clients to help them prepare for a public safety power shutoff, he said. The county will push out information on pending shutoffs to them after being alerted by PG&E. Supervisors heard emergency preparedness ideas from the public. Kellie Anderson lives in Angwin. She said that, if the town had to evacuate during 4:30 p.m. rush hour, all of these people would need to travel congested Highway 29 and Silverado Trail. Twenty-nine and Silverado Trail are functionally gridlocked all the way from Deer Park Road to Napa, Anderson said. Resident Eve Kahn had a suggestion based on evacuations on the East Coast for hurricanes. Napa County during such an evacuation could make all the lanes on Silverado Trail or Highway 29 head south so people can escape. Just a thought, Kahn told supervisors. It works in other areas of the country. Napa County has had eight federally-declared disasters since August 2014 the Aug. 24, 2014 West Napa earthquake, the September 2015 Lake County fire shelter response in Calistoga, the Jan. 3-12 storms of 2017, the Jan. 18-23 storms of 2017, the Feb. 1-23 storms of 2017, the October 2017 fires and two sets of storms this year, a county report said. The silver lining in all of this is for every disaster, were way more prepared and ready for the next one, Gregory said, while adding how unfortunate the disaster streak has been. 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. Tuesday, May 21 0142 -- Report of a car alarm going off on College Avenue. 0221 -- There was another report of a car alarm going off on College Avenue. The caller said it goes off every day. 0517 -- A silver sedan ran off the road and partly in a ditch near Main/Sulphur Springs. 0824 -- A caller asked police to patrol near Oak/Tainter, where drivers keep disregarding the stop sign on the school bus. 0842 -- A caller said a car was racing up and down Sulphur Springs Avenue Monday night between 11:30 p.m. and midnight. Police said to call back as soon as it happens again. 0853 -- Report of someone possibly setting up a homeless encampment near Silverado/Pope. Police had already contacted the person in question, who was only there for the day. 1022 -- Police were asked to check on an elderly woman on Hudson Avenue who usually opens her curtains and picks up her newspaper in the mornings, but hadnt done so this morning. 1056 -- Police took a report on a two-car accident with major injuries at Charter Oak/Main. 1252 -- Report of a homeless man with a shopping cart and a pit bull at Meily Park. Police had already talked to the man, who was just there for the day. 1956 -- Caltrans closed parts of Madrona, Pine and Fulton while Main Street was being repaved. Wednesday, May 22 0137 -- Non-injury lift assist on Laguna Seca Court. 1003 -- Report of check fraud. 1514 -- Davis, a German Shorthaired Pointer, was reported missing from Library Lane after he took off after a rabbit. 1841 -- Non-injury lift assist on Meadowcreek Circle. 1923 -- Two black suitcases containing clothes were found behind some bushes at Meily Park. Thursday, May 23 0508 -- Report of a dog barking for the last three hours on Spring Street. 1024 -- Medical aid for a person having a possible seizure on Main Street. 1048 -- Someone dumped a refrigerator on College Avenue. 1644 -- A chair and a birdhouse were stolen from Nemo Court. 1645 -- Report of a possible drunk driver swerving in and out of traffic near Main/Grayson. Friday, May 24 0018 -- Medical aid on Spring Mountain Court. 1530 -- Used condoms were found on a playground on Adams Street. The primary and middle schools have reported the same issue. Saturday, May 25 0202 -- Report of four younger-looking men drinking beer in a parking lot near Vintage Avenue. 0248 -- Report of an unconscious man lying in the road on Valley View Street. The man was alert and conscious when an officer arrived, but he had been drinking heavily. 0833 -- Medical aid for a man whod collapsed on the floor on Del Monte Court. He might have been lying there since Friday. 0856 -- Report of a metal cover lying in the road in the elm tunnel. 0945 -- Someone had been using a leaf blower near Meily Park since 9:15. 1320 -- Report of a reckless driver swerving and traveling at erratic speeds on southbound Highway 29 at Grayson Avenue. 1734 -- A man said hed pumped gas at a Main Street gas station less than two hours ago, and now his credit card company was notifying him that the station was trying to charge two additional charges to his account. 1807 -- Report of a 3-year-old girl in the middle of Pope Street. 1859 -- Report of a reckless driver passing over double yellows on northbound Highway 29. 1927 -- A black Android phone in a silver case was found at Safeway. 1943 -- Minor-injury head-on collision at Hunt/Monte Vista. 2027 -- One of the walk signals at Pope/Main was facing the wrong direction. Police notified Caltrans. 2108 -- Report of a woman sleeping in the post office. 2319 -- Report of a possible drunk driver last seen pulling over and pumping gas at a Main Street gas station. Sunday, May 26 1330 -- Medical aid for a fall victim on Highway 29. 1357 -- Police cited a Prius parked in a disabled parking space on Main Street. 1449 -- A Ford Taurus was damaged in a hit-and-run on Main Street. The responsible car was described as a gray Honda CRV last seen heading south. 2250 -- Medical aid for an elderly woman with high blood pressure on Pratt Avenue. Monday, May 27 0629 -- A doctor asked to speak to an officer about a patient. 1234 -- A Charter Oak Avenue resident said a car was partially blocking her driveway. She found its owner momentarily. 1711 -- Report of a dog locked in a pickup near Railroad Avenue. 1717 -- Report of a vehicle fire on Chiles Pope Valley Road. 1917 -- Report of two suspicious people leaning on the hood of a white vehicle on Church Street. Public Works staff, members of the public, and Mayor Geoff Ellsworth gathered at the citys Corporation Yard on open house last Thursday. City staff and guests grilled hot dogs and talked about the citys infrastructure. Last week was National Public Works Week. Thirty years ago, when Rene Sculatti first opened Amelia Claire, a shoe and dress shop at 1230 Main St., she said there was no fashion shopping in downtown St. Helena. Im a Southern California girl, so when I came here, I nearly died, she said last week. I was used to having shopping here and there, the Hollywood Bowl, the Greek Theatre, lots of places to go and see and do. She remembers clothing choices in the downtown were limited to two mens clothing stores, Mels and Goodmans, both now gone, as well as catalogue outlets for Sears, Roebuck and Company and Montgomery Wards, long since closed. She also remembers Nu-Way Drugs where we would go to get ice cream and the St. Helena Hotel. If there was any shopping, it was at Vintage 1870 in Yountville, she said. Sculatti first worked for John Caldwell, who opened a shoe store at Vintage 1870 in Yountville, and took it over when he left. I just found my little niche, my passion, doing retail, she said. Ron and Rene Sculatti opened Marios Napa Valley at 1223 Main St. -- named after their son, Mario Sculatti -- in 1981; and opened Amelia Claire, after their daughter, in 1989 when Amelia was 30 months old. On Friday, May 31, Rene Sculatti will celebrate the stores 30th anniversary from 2 to 7 p.m. with a drawing for a $1,000 shopping spree. Sculatti said anyone who signs up will get a ticket; those who make a purchase will get two tickets. In her 30 years in business, Sculatti has had some wonderful long-term employees, including her first employee, who was with her for 17 years, and her current manager, Lupita, who has been with her for the past five years. Sculatti said shes been a member of the Chamber of Commerce since 1989 and won a Civic Improvement award for converting Main Street Electric into her tasteful shop. They had lamps so old, theyre almost cool again, Sculatti said with a laugh. Those days were great She pulls out a magazine section from the San Francisco Examiner printed in 1996 that featured places to shop in the Napa Valley, including Amelia Claire. Those days were great, it was so easy, she said. You couldnt even keep them (customers) away. I was shoes, hats and bags here and my womens clothing store was next door. I closed that in 2015 and consolidated the two stores because so many customers told Sculatti she had to have clothes, so she did, keeping a few things. When asked whats going on in St. Helenas downtown today, Sculatti said she didnt feel the hit in 2005 or 2006, when everybody else did, but only starting seeing the downturn in business in 2012. The Internet, of course, has been difficult for most people, but I also think it has to do with the next generation. Our childrens generation shops online for everything. Their lives are so busy, Sculatti said. Amelia Claire Sculatti is now 34 and for the past decade she has worked for an online shoe company that wanted to move from sneakers and sandals to fashion footwear. Rene Sculatti said the online world has a different relationship to their customers than does brick-and-mortar stores. Theirs is a relationship built on buy a bunch and return a bunch, with no questions asked, she said, which, of course, is delightful in a lot of ways when people dont like to shop. Sculatti adds, Weve never made it hard for our customers to shop here, offering exchanges, services like stretching or dying a shoe, and alterations. The store is also open late and Sculatti said, People pour into my store from 5:30 until about 8, because they just got done wine tasting and theres no one open. The shop owner has been in the retail business for 45 years and said she still loves it. I pray that this pendulum will swing back, even though my daughter will sometimes tell me that its over, that theres no longer going to be small businesses as you know it, she said. Sculatti adds, though, that she doesnt believe her daughter because wherever she travels, she likes to shop. Cooperation needed When asked what St. Helena can do to attract more downtown businesses and/or keep the ones that are here, Sculatti was firm. I think a lot of the building owners dont live in the real world and they dont have their fingerprint on what it is like to be in business, she said. Landlords are raising rents and thinking they could rent to anybody and ask whatever they wanted, she said. Its hard work to stay in business and you gotta love it. She said retail is her passion, although she added, It takes a cooperation between the landlord and the tenants to make things really work and I dont think theres enough of that. Additionally, she cited a number of issues that hurt downtown businesses, including a lack of parking, a lack of lodging, the impact of the wildfires in 2017 October is my second best month, Sculatti said, but not that year, when her business was down 40 percent and the timing of the twice-a-year sidewalk sales. In May, youre wanting to sell your winter things, although people see all your brand new summer things and they want them at a bargain, and in October, you have all your brand new boots in and people dont want to buy sandals, she said. What would Sculatti like to tell her customers? I am so grateful that theyve made it so fun. Im thinking that Im 66 years old my party is one day after my birthday and OK, these are my golden years. I love you guys, lets just keep doing this for a few more years. 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. True heroism has little to do with conventional notions of glory and honor, a retired U.S. Army Special Forces officer told St. Helenans Monday during American Legion Post 199s annual Memorial Day ceremony. A real hero is someone who stands for what they believe in, regardless of what others think, Napa resident Bill Chadwick said, citing paralyzed Vietnam veteran and anti-war activist Ron Kovic as an example. Chadwick, a retired lieutenant colonel and graduate of West Point, addressed a crowd of several hundred at the St. Helena Cemetery. He was the featured speaker at a ceremony that also included two performances by the St. Helena High School choir, prayers by American Legion Chaplain Sean Collins and Calvary Christian Chapels Steve Sager and comments by high school students George Conwell and Juliana Cortez. Chadwick shared his own memories of military service: packing a rucksack with the heavy stuff at the bottom, assembling and disassembling an M-16, and cooking over a can of Sterno or a piece of C-4 plastic explosive. The warrior spirit, the smell of coffee breath under a poncho with a red-filtered flashlight making a map check, he said. The scent of fear in the C-130 standing up for a night jump with equipment into God only knows what kind of drop zone, and its your own body you smell. Oftentimes the only reason you did tough things was because your buddies did them. Chadwick said he endured fear, doubt, pain and deprivation because his West Point roommate was enduring the same hardships. That camaraderie sustained him, as it has other veterans. Personally, my actions in my war in El Salvador and Nicaragua have had far-ranging effects, good and bad, not only for those two countries but have affected our nation in adverse ways as well, Chadwick said. I shudder to think on the bad I caused and try to make up for it every day. Veterans and their families laid wreaths in honor of the local soldiers who died in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam and Afghanistan. Post 199s rifle squad fired a 21-gun salute, followed by the playing of Taps. After the ceremony, the public was invited to lunch at the American Legion Hall. Chadwick closed with a quote by the late author Herman Wouk thats inscribed on a bench at Arlington National Cemetery: The beginning of the end of war lies in remembrance. Please make today your own version of a memory that inspires, fortifies, enriches, and prepares you to go out and do something for all of us, he said. Make the effort to share your time, talent and treasure with the less fortunate you see and encounter each and every day. 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 good and the bad It is necessary to examine whether remittance is a blessing or curse for the economy. Shutterstock I step into the candy aisle and prepare myself for overwhelm. Although I have been reporting about chocolate for years - and devouring it for even longer - I am always dazzled by the growing number of companies that are making chocolate and now sourcing it from an even broader swath of countries within the equatorial band where cocoa is grown: from Hawaii to Haiti, Ecuador to India, and Vietnam to Vanuatu. While most of us tend to think of chocolate as a single flavor, cocoa has more than 600 aroma compounds that reflect the plant's genetic makeup and where it was grown, fermented and dried. These diverse aromas and tastes are usually highlighted in more specialized chocolates, but they can also be mixed and muted to achieve the consistent flavors we expect in mass-produced confections. Chocolate lovers now have a cornucopia of choices that celebrate flavor and offer more opportunities than ever before to support the people behind the bars, but it can be easy to get lost in a sea of high prices, shiny wrappers and certification jargon. Here's what you need to know to find and savor your ultimate bar - or bars. - What chocolate is made of: The foundational ingredient are cocoa beans, the processed seeds of Theobroma cacao - the name translates from the Greek as "food of the gods" - a tree with heavy, colorful pods that each holds 30 to 40 seeds, surrounded by a thin layer of creamy white pulp. Cocoa production is a labor-intensive, hands-on process at every juncture. Once cocoa pods are harvested and cracked open, the seeds are extracted, piled in boxes or under plantain or banana leaves, and fermented for up to five days. After fermentation, the beans are dried and stored, ready for the next step of their journey. - The transformation from bean to bar: A cocoa bean is made up of fat (cocoa butter) and chocolatey nibs. Some cocoa is processed directly into cocoa butter and powder, while other lots are destined for makers and manufacturers. The latter will sort, roast, crack, shell, refine, temper and mold their bars, adding ingredients along the way. Almost all chocolate bars contain sugar; some also incorporate an emulsifier, such as lecithin, or extra cocoa butter to enhance texture, plus such ingredients as vanilla, salt, nuts and dried fruit. Milk chocolate is made with milk powder or a plant-based alternative, and white chocolate (yes, it's really chocolate) contains only cocoa fat (no nibs), plus sugar and any other ingredients. - What to look for: When approaching the chocolate aisle, ask yourself what kind of experience you want to have and what you want that experience to support. Many people speak of allegiance to particular percentages, but that number tells a partial story - and can limit you in terms of flavor. A 70 percent bar is made of 70 percent cocoa, with other ingredients (sugar, cocoa fat, inclusions, etc.) making up the remaining 30 percent. (Chocolates that don't list percentages - such as candy bars chock-full of nougat and caramel - aren't trying to emphasize the amount, or quality, of cocoa.) Jael Rattigan, co-founder of French Broad Chocolates and curator of the company's online shop and Chocolate Bar Library in Asheville, North Carolina, says that when she shops for chocolate, she "gravitates in two seemingly opposite directions: old favorites and new experiences." One way to embrace both is to try different companies' takes on 70 percent bars or explore different origins. For example, even though Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago are neighbors, the former is known for cocoa varieties that hold delicate notes of honey and caramel, while the latter's chocolate displays deeper dried fruit aromas. Certifications also communicate the stories behind the bar. Rattigan reaches for chocolate "that support people and place, meaning chocolate that's built upon fair relationships with cacao farmers and producers, and sustainable growing practices." Fair Trade is the most established economic protocol and assures a baseline price to farmer cooperatives (not individual producers). Rainforest Alliance and UTZ are merging and, collectively, focus on environmental protection, health and safety, and labor practices. USDA Organic certification is strictly focused on inputs, indicating whether any ingredients were grown with synthetic chemicals. While these protocols confer some benefits, none solve the problems of poverty or environmental degradation. It's why craft companies such as Rattigan's practice direct trade, buying cocoa directly from farms or specialty cocoa bean brokers, with a focus on exceptional flavor. Rattigan emphasizes the relationships: "As we grow, we can buy more cacao from them at prices that far exceed the commodity price." - How to savor it: First, know your motivation, says Terese Weiss, an instructor at the International Institute of Chocolate and Cacao Tasting and judge at the International Chocolate Awards. "If what you need is creamy texture and a rush of sweetness, there isn't much point in worrying about approach," she says. "It's a destination, not a journey." If you're consuming a higher-priced craft bar, however, slow down and assess the way the bar impacts your senses. Weiss recommends exploring how the chocolate smells, and gauging its intensity ("gentle, medium or bold?"), texture ("fine, rough or sandy?") and flavor ("sweet, floral, fruity, woody, roasted, chocolatey?"). The goal isn't to become a choco-snob but to better understand and describe what you like - so you can spend your money wisely and more easily find what you want. - How to store it: If you happen to have any chocolate left, store it in a cool, dry, dark place, away from any strong smells. Don't be alarmed by any whitish discoloration you find on your bar; it's simply the cocoa fat separating from the nib. It will melt together in your mouth. Chocolate companies are required to include an expiration date, but bars that don't contain milk powder will usually last well past any listed time. Use your judgment before throwing away something so precious. Sethi is the author of "Bread, Wine, Chocolate: The Slow Loss of Foods We Love" and the host/creator of "The Slow Melt" chocolate podcast. A Fairfield man is facing 33 years and eight months to life in prison the maximum possible sentence after being convicted of raping his occasional girlfriend. A jury last month convicted Ancieto Landa Alarcon, 47, of felony charges of rape by force, kidnapping to commit robbery, threatening to commit a crime resulting in death, injuring a partner and assault with a deadly weapon. He was also found to have committed six special allegations, which can be tacked on to charges to enhance a punishment, related to his alleged use of a deadly weapon and the circumstances under which hes accused of committing the crime. A judge imposed the maximum sentence at a hearing last week. Alarcon pleaded not guilty to the charges and allegations, but admitted on the stand to corporal injury and threats, said Andy Rubinger, his public defender. He denied having a weapon, kidnapping or raping his accuser. Judge Scott Young presided over the trial. The Napa County District Attorneys Office accused Alarcon of abusing a woman, who is not named in court records, over the course of their relationship, and kidnapping her in his green mini van, threatening to kill her with a saw and raping her in a dark, desolate area on Feb. 12, 2018. Agnes Dziadur, who prosecuted the case, said in an email that the DAs office is grateful that the court imposed the maximum sentence to keep the woman and community safe. She called Alarcon exceptionally violent and dangerous. The woman met Alarcon two months before she came to America through his Facebook page that sought people looking to work in the fields, prosecutors wrote. She accepted his offer to have a sexual, friends with benefits relationship and met her at a San Francisco bus station when she arrived in the country, prosecutors wrote. She said in court records that she acted like a wife, but he acted like a friend and had relationships with other women on Facebook. Prosecutors laid out disturbing scenes of abuse and violence in court records. They lived together in a hotel room for more than a year, and Alarcon was violent and verbally abusive, prosecutors wrote. He spat in her face and called her obscene names. She tried to leave but couldnt because he held and bruised her arms, prosecutors wrote. She testified that she never called the police because he threatened to keep her documents, ID, passport and visa, and end the relationship and call Immigration to remove her from the country. Their relationship temporarily ended when Alarcon moved to Fresno, but they remained in contact. They resumed their sexual relationship when Alarcon returned to Fairfield, prosecutors wrote. They moved in together and things got worse, the woman testified. The woman said he locked her in the bathroom, assaulted her, hit her and grabbed a knife. He poked himself in the arm and gave her a chance to escape, prosecutors wrote. She told prosecutors that was the last instance of abuse that occurred before she moved out, but he threatened to kill her and her children and family if she told authorities about the abuse. Alarcon threatened to capture and torture her in a Feb. 8, 2018 voicemail, prosecutors wrote. They were no longer in a sexual relationship, but she remained part work and part friends with him out of fear, she said. Alarcon said he would pay money he owed her and arranged to meet at the Walmart in American Canyon on Feb. 12, when it was getting dark, prosecutors wrote. She sat down in the front passenger seat of his minivan to discuss the money, and he started driving toward Napa and asking the woman to move back in with him, prosecutors wrote, but she declined. Alarcon took her to an unknown, dark location with no cars, people, stores or houses nearby, prosecutors wrote. He insulted and swore at her, hit her, would not let her leave, hit her on the back of her head, grabbed her hair and squeezed her throat. He forced her to write a note with black marker that said she went with Alarcon voluntarily, and was robbed and left there, prosecutors wrote. The abuse continued, and Alarcon grabbed a saw from underneath his seat, put it against the back of her neck and said he had to kill her because he had beaten her too much, prosecutors wrote. The woman said she didnt want him to keep hurting her, so she told Alarcon, who was holding the saw, that they could have sex in the car, prosecutors wrote, adding thats when the rape took place. But Alarcon saw another cars lights coming, the woman said. He ran into the drivers side of the van, and she grabbed her keys and phone, and threw herself onto the hood of the oncoming truck, with her pants and underwear still down, prosecutors wrote. The driver called the police, who arrived soon after. Alarcon was arrested by Napa County Sheriffs Office deputies and Vallejo Police Department officers on Feb. 13, 2018. Alarcons public defender, Rubinger, said he plans to file an appeal. 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. Mournful bugle renderings of Taps could be heard at various Napa County locations on Memorial Day as residents honored those who died while serving in the military. Ceremonies in all five county cities featured such sights as the laying down of wreaths. Red, white and blue were the dominate colors. The hundreds of people attending made their Memorial Day more than the unofficial start of the summer vacation season. Yountville One annual ceremony is held in the oak-covered hills to the rear of the Veterans Home of California at Yountville. Here is the 11-acre Veterans Home cemetery with about 5,800 headstones, which on Memorial Day, were each decorated with a small flag. Thank you for your service, your bravery, your selflessness, Yountville Vice Mayor Kerri Dorman said during the ceremony after gray morning skies had given way to blue. Veterans Home Administrator Fred Just led the crowd in a pledge. I will never break the promise to always remember our fallen, the assembly of people said in unison. At times, speakers zeroed in on the specific. One told of a Vietnam War veteran who began showing symptoms related to Agent Orange exposure and had his physical vitality and ability to enjoy life drain away before dying. Because it took him 50 years to die for his country, its doubtful his name will be added the wall, said Debby Wiepking of the Allied Council, referring to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. Speakers did more than remember the men and women who fought and died for the country. They also called for action, whether helping surviving families or meeting the needs of todays living veterans. For Korean War veteran and Veterans Home resident Muriel Zimmer, attending a Memorial Day ceremony is a family tradition. She shared her experiences while waiting for the Yountville event to begin at 10 a.m. Zimmer grew up in a small New York town, where Memorial Day was marked with a Main Street parade to the cemetery. A young Zimmer marched with the Girl Scouts behind the high school band and put flower on the graves. It was a typical American movie-type setting, really, Zimmer said. It was a big event for a little, small town. Napa Another local ceremony began at 11:30 a.m. in downtown Napa in the grass-and-concrete setting of Veterans Memorial Park along the Napa River. American Legion Post 113 hosted the event. C. J. Bertagna of American Legion Post 113 focused during the keynote address on the upcoming 75th anniversary of D-Day. Bertagna read a letter from an optimistic young soldier preparing to go on the great crusade of D-Day and asking for a care package from home. The soldier was killed in the ensuing battle and buried in the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in France. As in Yountville, one theme was that remembering the dead should make a difference for the living. May we continue to honor them throughout the year and live a life worthy of their sacrifice, Bernie Narvaez, commandant of the Napa Valley Marine Corps League, told the crowd. St. Helena True heroism has little to do with conventional notions of glory and honor, a retired U.S. Army Special Forces officer told St. Helenans Monday during American Legion Post 199s annual Memorial Day ceremony. A real hero is someone who stands for what they believe in, regardless of what others think, Napa resident Bill Chadwick said, citing paralyzed Vietnam veteran and anti-war activist Ron Kovic as an example. Chadwick, a retired lieutenant colonel and graduate of West Point, addressed a crowd of several hundred at the St. Helena Cemetery. He was the featured speaker at a ceremony that also included two performances by the St. Helena High School choir, prayers by American Legion Chaplain Sean Collins and Calvary Christian Chapels Steve Sager and comments by high school students George Conwell and Juliana Cortez. Chadwick shared his own memories of military service: packing a rucksack with the heavy stuff at the bottom, assembling and disassembling an M-16, and cooking over a can of Sterno or a piece of C-4 plastic explosive. The warrior spirit, the smell of coffee breath under a poncho with a red-filtered flashlight making a map check, he said. The scent of fear in the C-130 standing up for a night jump with equipment into God only knows what kind of drop zone, and its your own body you smell. Oftentimes the only reason you did tough things was because your buddies did them. Chadwick said he endured fear, doubt, pain and deprivation because his West Point roommate was enduring the same hardships. That camaraderie sustained him, as it has other veterans. Personally, my actions in my war in El Salvador and Nicaragua have had far-ranging effects, good and bad, not only for those two countries but have affected our nation in adverse ways as well, Chadwick said. I shudder to think on the bad I caused and try to make up for it every day. Veterans and their families laid wreaths in honor of the local soldiers who died in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam and Afghanistan. Post 199s rifle squad fired a 21-gun salute, followed by the playing of Taps. After the ceremony, the public was invited to lunch at the American Legion Hall. Chadwick closed with a quote by the late author Herman Wouk thats inscribed on a bench at Arlington National Cemetery: The beginning of the end of war lies in remembrance. Please make today your own version of a memory that inspires, fortifies, enriches, and prepares you to go out and do something for all of us, he said. Make the effort to share your time, talent and treasure with the less fortunate you see and encounter each and every day. Calistoga Back in 1919, Memorial Day in Calistoga was set aside as a daylong event. There was a parade, speeches, and veterans were escorted with a march to Pioneer Cemetery for services, prayers, the playing of Taps, the singing of The Star Spangled Banner, then all marched back to town. This year, as in previous years, veterans were honored at Pioneer Cemetery and also with a ceremony at the Veterans Memorial at Logvy Park. At Pioneer Cemetery, during Memorial Day on Monday, the names of Civil War Veterans buried there were read by the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), and auxiliary member Cindy Eddy read Lincolns Gettysburg Address. A rifle salute was also performed. In speaking about what Memorial Day was like back in 1919, Dean Enderlin (SUVCW) also pointed out that this year marks the 100th anniversary of the creation of the American Legion. Later in the morning at Logvy Park, Calistoga American Legion member Jim Barnes spoke of the sacrifices made by soldiers throughout U.S. history. He called attention to conditions suffered such as shell shock, the aftermath of weapons like Agent Orange during the Vietnam War, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which wasnt recognized as an actual condition until 1980. Gradually, attention was called to change the culture of honoring veterans, and providing healthcare, the GI bill, to pay for school tuition, housing, and other needs for veterans. Taps was played at both services. 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. Editors note: This is a speech I delivered on Memorial Day 2015 at the invitation of American Legion Post 231 in Calistoga at the Veterans Memorial at Logvy Park. When we gather on holidays, it is usually to mark a date the anniversary of a great or tragic event, or the birth of a person worth remembering. In November, we will gather here again to honor our veterans, marking the date and hour that ended World War I, the most horrible war humankind had known to that point and an event with consequences we live with to this day. On Christmas, Easter, and Passover, we gather in churches and with family to mark important events of religious history. On New Years, we mark the flip of the calendar and a promise of new hope. In the winter, we get days off to remember our two greatest presidents and also a civil rights leader who reminded us that the legacy of those two presidents belongs to all Americans equally. Memorial Day is different. Today, we gather not to mark a date or time, but rather an idea. Memorial Day began as a spontaneous event on both sides of the divide of the Civil War. Families and towns would pick a day to decorate the graves of the brave men who had died in that awful conflict. It was celebrated on different days in different places, and for a good many decades there were separate Union and Confederate Memorial Days. But as the years went by, and the dividing lines of the war blurred into memory, Memorial Day became more standardized the end of May became customary, and the last Monday in May became official in 1971. Today, the day is dedicated not to the Union or Confederate dead, or even to the dead of the Civil War, but to all the men and women who have given their lives in the service of the United States. Through all the changes and the differing observances of Memorial Day, the idea has remained the same: to honors those who did not come home. The people who survived our wars both the veterans who fought and the civilians who tended the home front were able to tell their stories. They were able to write new stories of life after the war. For those men and women who did not come home, their stories stopped on the battlefield. The idea of Memorial Day then is to honor their sacrifice, and make sure that these men and women remain part of our stories, even if their voices were silenced too soon. It is for the idea that their untold stories should not be forgotten that we gather every Memorial Day. I grew up in Virginia, within sight of Washington, D.C. In that part of the country, the nations wars are easy to remember and close to home. The landscape is dotted with battlefields, from the Revolution Yorktown, Trenton, Germantown and Brandywine. From the War of 1812 Bladensburg, Baltimore, Sacketts Harbor. And the many, many Civil War encounters, from the great engagements at Antietam and Gettysburg to the small and obscure Brandy Station, Saylers Creek and Rivers Bridge. At the end of the street where I grew up was a circular mound of earth the remnants of Fort Willard, one of the string of Union forts that guarded the approaches to Washington. So close are reminders of the war in that part of the country that they become a place where kids ride their bikes and play with hardly a thought to what these sites represent. Washington, D.C. is full of reminders of war. It is home to a wide variety of memorials to important military figures and to their wars Korea, World Wars I and II, and the stark, vivid tribute to the dead of Vietnam. When the Vietnam War memorial was proposed, there was a great outcry, loud voices condemning the design, saying it was too spare, too modern, did not depict the men and women who struggled and died there. Some called it a gash in the landscape of the city. Those critics were quieted quickly once the memorial opened in 1982. Any of you who have visited that site know how powerful it is stark black granite panels containing the names of more than 58,000 Americans who died in that war. From that wall, you can turn around to see the natural beauty of Washington, and the towering Washington Monument looming overhead, but it remains a place private and intimate. Looking at the granite panels is startling. Not only do you see the names of the dead engraved on it, but you can see yourself and your fellow visitors reflected in the highly polished stone. That monument, to me, embodies what Memorial Day is about: it commemorates and names the dead, whose stories ended on the battlefield. At the same time, the ghostly reflection of the living on the wall draws us into the ranks of the dead, showing that they are part of our ongoing story even if their voices are now stilled. Being at that memorial can be overwhelming, even for those of us too young to have been deeply touched by the war. The sight of grown men weeping, visitors lost in contemplation, people running their fingers over the names friends, family, or just names unknown: quiet, private moments playing out in the middle of a bustling crowd. It is a powerful reminder of the real and ongoing cost of a war even decades after it ends. Little else in Washington, D.C. is so intimate and raw. Most of the citys monuments and buildings are dedicated to the projection of energy and power. They are great gleaming temples of marble, towers of glass, all with flags snapping smartly from their poles. Standing on the west front of the Capitol, looking down the Mall to the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, it is easy to get caught up in the pomp and pride that drives the city. But if you look a little to the left, there is something different to see. Tucked between the Pentagon and the glass towers of Rosslyn, the exploding skyline of Northern Virginia, is a green space. Its not easy from the Capitol to tell what this green space is for trees, lawns, a grand house on a small hill. Drawing a little closer, it becomes clear that this is not a park or private estate. Row upon row of white headstones line the rolling lawns more than 400,000 on about 625 acres, starting with the first man interred there, Pvt. William Henry Christman of 67th Pennsylvania Infantry, buried there along with three comrades on May 13 of 1864. This place, now known as Arlington National Cemetery, began in a sense as an act of revenge. That gracious house on the hill in the midst of the green space was once the home of Robert E. Lee, a man who turned down an offer from Abraham Lincoln to command the Union army and instead elected to follow his native state into rebellion. Within days of Virginias secession, federal troops under Gen. Irvin McDowell seized the estate. Three years later, the government formally confiscated it and Brig. Gen. Montgomery C. Meigs began the practice of burying Union dead there, in part to ensure that the Lee family would never be able to reoccupy the property. What began as an act of anger, however, became a place of healing. Formally, it was a Union cemetery, yet hundreds of Confederate dead were buried on the property, alongside their former adversaries. Although in the early years after the war, family members were denied the right to decorate those Confederate graves, by 1906, the wounds of war had healed enough that the United Daughters of the Confederacy was granted permission to erect a monument to their fallen young men, a monument finally unveiled to the public in 1914. So like Memorial Day itself, Arlington National Cemetery transformed from a symbol of division into a unifying force, honoring all those Americans who had died in battle. That cemetery now stands in full view of the power and majesty of Washington, D.C.s government buildings. It is a reminder to the president, lawmakers, bureaucrats, and military officers who control the levers of power of the enormous individual costs of war. It was at Arlington that the first truly national Memorial Day was celebrated, on May 30 of 1868. About 5,000 people gathered to decorate more than 20,000 graves and to hear James Garfield, a former Union officer later to become president, give some remarks about the soldiers who were buried around him. We do not know one promise these men made, the future president said that day, one pledge they gave, one word they spoke; but we do know they summed up and perfected, by one supreme act, the highest virtues of men and citizens. For love of country they accepted death, and thus resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism and their virtue. There is, indeed, no way to know all of the stories of the men and women who have died in Americas wars. Many of them are lost to history, some unknown or forgotten even in their own time, many more who died so long ago that there are no family members or comrades left to recall them. But we do know that on at least one day out of the year, every one of them will be remembered in some way. The idea of Memorial Day, the idea of our gathering here today, and all the other gatherings around the country, great and small, is to be sure that these men and women remain part of our ongoing story, a story that they sacrificed everything to ensure. You can reach Sean Scully at 256-2246 or sscully@napanews.com. Follow him on Twitter @nvreditor. Catch the latest in Opinion Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly 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. During the last few weeks, the Legislature has been debating whether a moratorium on public charter schools is the best way to help traditional school districts with their crippling financial problems. As one of the elected leaders of the Los Angeles Unified School District Californias largest district and one certainly struggling to meet its financial obligations and the needs of families I welcome the states help in tackling public educations complex challenges. But I dont see a surplus of high-quality public school options as one of those challenges. I see our teachers struggling to innovate due to rigid regulations. I see our schools vying for the basic resources theyre lacking due to inadequate state funding. And I see our most vulnerable students paying the price. Rather than focusing on a decades-old political fight between charter and district schools, the Legislature should get to work on reforms that would help traditional school districts. This would naturally mitigate the growth of new schools because parents are satisfied, not because were placing an arbitrary cap on options for poor families. First, remove barriers that prevent traditional schools from innovating and improving. Every year, schools and districts across the state apply for hundreds of waivers to the California Education Code a 2,500-page behemoth of rules and red tape just so they can tailor curricula to their students needs or exercise more flexibility on how best to use funds, like increasing instructional hours or deciding how best to staff schools. The charter school movement was borne out of the idea that cutting red tape to allow schools more flexibility to innovate could produce better results for kids, granting them a mega-waiver from swaths of the regulations in the Education Code. It was an experiment and we have plenty of data about what has and hasnt worked. But what we havent done is amend the Education Code so that all schools can receive the same extensive waivers to innovate in district schools. Second, increase education funding and equity by improving our student funding formula. In addition to the critical need for more state funding given that California ranks far from the top of states in per pupil fundingthere are two adjustments to the current funding formula that would benefit large urban districts like Los Angeles. Schools are funded by daily attendance, which unfairly penalizes districts that enroll harder-to-serve student populations, like students in foster care or those experiencing homelessness. Switching to an enrollment-based, as opposed to attendance-based, funding system would immediately help districts serving our highest-need children. The state also funds special education separately by total student population, not by the percentage of students who actually have special needs. The state can make adjustments to reallocate funding for the benefit of these students. Third, help school districts address the systemic financial issues of rising costs for pensions, which is a state-run system, and retiree healthcare, which is a local challenge. Following a 2012 state mandate that put a greater burden on employees and districts to contribute to the broken pension system, Gov. Gavin Newsoms proposed budget included some pension relief. But we are going to need broader reform so that we can pass those savings onto our teachers, principals, janitors, and bus drivers. Although Los Angeles Unified and other school districts retiree healthcare challenges an $11.2 billion unfunded liability in Los Angeles are of local making, the state can creatively incentivize common sense reforms. The Legislature is considering lowering the threshold for districts to pass a parcel tax from 67 percent to 55 percent. What if legislators instead offered this incentive: Make it easier to raise local revenue, but only for districts that work toward more meaningful and collaborative reforms? In collaboration with our labor partners, Los Angeles Unified implemented a healthcare cost-saving measure, which preserves benefits while saving the district $50 million annually by transferring Medicare-eligible retirees and dependents to a nationwide plan. The state should offer more of these win-win reforms to help districts address rising costs, like allowing district employees to opt into the state healthcare exchanges or mandating contribution-defined plans for new employees. Legislators need to address the root of our fiscal and academic issues. That doesnt include fueling an us vs. them narrative that pits school models against each other and vilifies low-income families that choose a better fit for their childrens education. We can all agree that Californias public education system needs help from the state to improve academic outcomes for our future leaders. But focusing on charter schools without creating solutions for district schools does a disservice to all our students who deserve the opportunity to succeed. Nick Melvoin is a former teacher who has served on the Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education since July 2017, Nick.Melvoin@LAUSD.net. He wrote this commentary for CALmatters, a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how Californias Capitol works and why it matters. The United Wa State Army (UWSA), the ethnic militia in Upper Burma, continues to be the main supplier of sophisticated arms to the guerillas in Northeast India, including the ULFA. Surrender of seven hardcore ULFA cadres on March 18 in Upper Assams Tinsukia district has made it clear that the UWSA is still supplying arms and ammunition to the insurgent outfits of northeast. The seven-member ULFA unit was being lead by sergeant Barun Asom, when they were intercepted by the security forces along the international border. Later, they surrendered in presence of Tinsukia superintendent of police Shiladitya Chetia. Also Read Why China fears Myanmars Christians: Bertil Linter Sergeant Barun Asom and his boys gave some detail on as to how ULFA has been procuring arms from the UWSA. Moreover, the factory marks on the arms and ammunition surrendered by the ULFA cadres gave a better picture of UWSAs involvement in arming the insurgent outfits of northeast. All the weapons surrendered by the seven ULFA cadres, had specific marks of the manufacturers, which clearly indicated the involvement of UWSA. The ULFA cadres laid down 3 AK-81(MQ) assault rifles, 1 AK 56 assault rifle, 2 Heckler & Koch assault rifles, 6 AK 81 magazines, 5 AK 56 magazines, 6 HK magazines, 1 Chinese hand grenade; 326 numbers of 7.62 mm ammunition; 232 numbers of 5.56 mm ammunition and 59 numbers of 9 mm ammunition. AK 81 assault was introduced into PLA service in 1981, and its first combat use came during the Sino-Vietnamese border conflicts of the mid-1980s. Now, the PLA has replaced most of its Type-81s with the Type 95 series of weapons. Also Read Northeast Now Exclusive: NSCN (K) procuring weapons in Myanmar Though Type 81 rifles are still in service in the reserves and armed police in China, the UWSA now manufactures weapons with an informal franchise agreement with the Chinese ordnance factories. The main motive is to sell these weapons at a premium to the insurgent outfits in northeast. The arms manufacturing unit in the Wa state are supported by the Chinese factories in Yunnan. Similarly, German arms manufacturer Heckler & Koch no longer sell weapons to countries which are corrupt, undemocratic, or not affiliated in some way to NATO. The German company supplying arms to insurgents in northeast does not arise as it supplies only to countries on its green list. It has been reported that the UWSA has set up a weapon manufacturing unit near Pangshang to produce replica Heckler & Koch assault rifles. The factory marks on the two Heckler & Koch assault rifles laid down by the seven ULFA cadres did not match with the marks of the genuine Heckler & Koch assault rifles produced in Germany. 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The 27th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Armenia and Uruguay was marked on Monday, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Armenia has issued a statement on this occasion. As per the statement, warm friendship and close cooperation ties based on mutual respect and sympathy have been established between the two countries and peoples, and the founding of the Uruguay Consulate General in Yerevan will become a new impetus for the development of bilateral relations. According to this statement, the Armenian community, which was established in Uruguay after the Armenian Genocide, has an important part in Armenian-Uruguayan relations, and Uruguay has assumed the role of a pioneer in the process of Armenian Genocide recognition. As said by the statement, Armenia lauds Uruguays support for the efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, and aimed at achieving a pacific resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) conflict. Also, the Armenian MFA expressed a deep conviction that Armenia-Uruguay relations will further develop and strengthen. Newspaper: 4th battalion being formed within Armenia Police Internal Troops Newspaper: Armenia authorities have 3-level chat groups on social media Bill Gates reveals plan to save the planet Kuwait forms new cabinet Attorney: Criminal prosecution against Artur Vanetsyan terminated, there was no preparation for Armenia PM's murder Armenia army's General Staff chief visits air force military unit Armenia opposition MP: Constitutional Court states that government should decide who will pay for employees' PCR tests Brawl takes place in Parliament of Jordan Armenia Ombudsman meets with Russia Ambassador, return of Armenian captives being held in Azerbaijan discussed Armenia launches 42 cases regarding submission of declarations by officials in 2021 Armenian man who was wanted arrives in Yerevan and voluntarily shows up at police station Armenia MOD peacekeeping brigade soldiers participate in tactical military exercises Armenia has new Ambassador to Israel Azerbaijani opposition journalists protesting against repressive law on media Armenia President and his wife pay visit to Yerablur Military Pantheon Armenia Competition Protection Commission to check pricing for COVID-19 tests at Zvartnots Airport Advocate: Criminal prosecution against Armenian detachment commander Ashot Minasyan is over NEWS.am daily digest: 28.12.21 Opposition 'Armenia' Faction of National Assembly holds session chaired by Robert Kocharyan Armenia education minister: 9 universities in 11 countries are carrying out Armenian Studies development programs Armenia PM attends informal meeting of leaders of CIS countries in St. Petersburg Ex-PM: Armenia authorities want to leave Karabakh to Azerbaijans whim Armenia Competition Protection Commission chief: There will be new player in petrol market soon Armenia political parties activities, their governing bodies property shall be scrutinized Dollar goes down in Armenia Opposition lawmaker: Local producers will face difficult situation if Turkey companies invade Armenia Georgia PM: Pashinyan and Aliyev are interested in the establishment of peace in the region Ruling force MP is sure all remaining Armenian captives in Azerbaijan will be returned Aravot.am: Mother of ex-mayor Vardan Ghukasyan's deceased son-in-law killed in Armenia's Gyumri Parliament majority member: Major personnel changes must be made in Armenia army A new start at Inecobanks most popular branch Governor: Armenia Central Bank has entered new stage of transformation Shoygu: Russian peacekeepers gradually bringing life back to Karabakh 60% of Armenias Zangezur Copper and Molybdenum Combine to pass under Russia-registered company control Seven people killed in Colombia bus incident Learjet crashed in California Shooting in Colorado kills five people President: Main precondition for keeping Artsakh Armenian, alive is to live, create here (VIDEO) 1 more person dies of coronavirus in Karabakh Turkey records increase in COVID-19 cases Yerevan has new First Deputy Mayor Displaced Karabakh residents seek political asylum from France Taliban open fire on women protesters in Kabul Armenia PM arrives in Russia Forcibly displaced Artsakh residents hand letter to Armenia government Artsakh President receives Refugee Women's Union NGO members Mayor of Armenias Goris to remain in custody 109 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia Displaced Karabakh residents staging protest outside Armenia government building Yerevan municipal council convenes special session Karabakh parliament: Artsakh, though shrunken, has statehood, its independence is indisputable China to become world's leading economy in 2030 in dollar terms Armenia premier heading for Russia World oil prices on the rise Newspaper: Who is seen in Armenia ex-President Robert Kocharyan's team as next mayor of Yerevan? Newspaper: Armenia PM attempts to implement plan to oust Artsakh President India freezes bank accounts of late Mother Teresas missionary charitable foundation Karabakh emergency situations service: Remains of 1,704 killed servicemen found after truce Armenian premier: We hope it will be possible to create completely new moods in Armenia and Artsakh in 2022 Armenia opposition MP on Constitutional Court's decision on coronavirus vaccinations and testing Armenia government discusses implementation of target program for 500 kindergartens and 300 schools Armenian serviceman Narek Yeremyan who returned from captivity is under arrest Karabakh President receives representatives of Russian community Karabakh State Minister addresses all Armenians to continue the struggle for Artsakh Armenia PM to leave for Russia to attend non-official meeting of leaders of CIS countries Azerbaijan defense minister convenes consultation Armenia ex-minister Gagik Beglaryan and family members show up at Prosecutor General's Office Azerbaijani MP sentenced to prison after beating police officers Armenians charged with murder of ex-serviceman sentenced to 5-20 years in Moscow Armenia PM visits Constitutional Court NEWS.am daily digest: 27.12.21 Armenia ex-President Sargsyan to hold press conference in 2nd half of January Dollar gains value in Armenia 26 MPs of pro-Kurdish party charged with 'offending Turkish state' after calling for Armenian Genocide recognition Armen Sarkissian sends condolence telegram over death of ex-President of Greece Armenia 2nd President says he supports a semi-presidential system of government Cavusoglu: Turkish-Armenian Protocols of 2009 have lost their significance Bayramov: Azerbaijan will file two more claims against Armenia in international arbitration Bayramov: There is no alternative to delimitation of Armenia-Azerbaijan border Bayramov says the question of enclaves is a reality that no one can deny Artsakh parliament expresses outrage at distorted formulations of Armenian PM MFA: Possibility of meeting of special representatives of Armenia and Turkey in Moscow is being discussed Baku supports normalization of relations between Ankara and Yerevan Azerbaijani MFA says tension between Baku and Tehran eliminated How Karabakh was left out of peace talks? Ex-President Kocharyan on international communitys disproportionate reactions: Does Armenia want that not to happen? Robert Kocharyan: If West-Russia relations escalate further, this may cause harm to Armenia Cavusoglu says Armenia-Turkish's representatives 1st meeting to be held in Moscow Armenia 2nd President: These authorities will throw Karabakh issue into Russias 'pockets' Magnitude 5.2 earthquake hits Iran Armenia ex-President Kocharyan on reopening railway link: We will have only 45 km via Meghri for transit Armenia 2nd President: These authorities serve foreign interests on Artsakh issue Ex-President Kocharyan to incumbent Armenia authorities: You have fulfilled all preconditions of Turkey Ibrahim Kalin: Armenia-Turkey process will destroy arguments of Armenian diaspora in US Zas assesses situation on border of Armenia and Azerbaijan Armenia 2nd President on Meghri option: Azerbaijan president refused to sign at last moment in Key West Kocharyan: Armenia has washed its hands of Karabakh Armenia 2nd President: We continue losing propaganda war to country where power is hereditary Copper is getting cheaper UN Secretary General Guterres urges to prepare for a new pandemic 1. Yes. The economy is strong and unemployment low. Thats a good basis for a solid year. 2. Yes. Health experts are getting a handle on COVID. 2022 should be a better year. 3. No. If any large-scale COV ID-related shutdowns take place, it will hit the nation hard. 4. No. Inflation is still too much of a wild card. It could really cause a drag on the economy. 5. Unsure. There are too many variables at play to predict with any degree of certainty. Vote View Results STEPANAKERT. Artsakh Republic (Nagorno-Karabakh Republic) President Bako Sahakyan on Tuesday issued a congratulatory address to fellow Armenians, in connection with the First Armenian Republic Day. Today is a special day for all Armenians in Armenia, Artsakh and the Diaspora, residing both in the Motherland and beyond its borders, the address runs, in particular, the Central Information Department of the Office of the Artsakh Republic President informed Armenian News-NEWS.am. It is hard to imagine what would have happened to our people if the First Armenian Republic had not been established in 1918, if our grandfathers had not heroically stood up against the enemy and had not carved the glorious victories of Sardarapat, Bash Aparan and Gharakilisa. Those victories seemed incredible and inconceivable to many, but not to us. The Armenian people, who had just witnessed the genocide, had lost their homeland and native soil, had no alternative but to straighten their bent back and continue the centuries-old path, continue with dignity and with a stance inherent to the Armenian. This was also the case during the Artsakh liberation war when the whole Armenian people consolidated and prevented another genocide, united and continued the series of the May victories, liberated the ancient fortress-town Shoushi, defended and developed the land of the forefathers. Today it is our duty to put concerted efforts into further strengthening the independent Armenian statehood, developing our Motherland, keeping our Trinity unshakable. Ten people are seeking to replace Theresa May, BBC reported. Housing minister Kit Malthouse became on Monday the latest Tory MP to join the race to become party leader. According to him, the campaign for the election of a new leader cannot be built around the same old people wounded by the wars that have split the Tory party over the past three years. Malthouse received fame in the Tory ranks by proposing a compromise version of the agreement on Brexit terms from the EU. His version, which the government considered too complicated, extended the transitional period after Brexit for a year - until the end of 2021 and provided for the replacement of the controversial mechanism called backstop. He was intended to prevent the emergence of a physical border between Northern Ireland and Ireland by maintaining Ulsters stay in the customs union and the single EU market. Instead of backstop Malthhouse proposed to introduce a free trade deal between the UK and Ireland, which provided for the use of the hitherto unknown technology of avoiding customs control. The President of Armenia, Armen Sarkissian, on Tuesday issued an address to fellow Armenians on the occasion of Republic Day. Today, the Armenian nation celebrates the holiday of the restatement of statehood which has a centuries-long history. We celebrate our Republic Day which signifies the struggle and victories, the unbreakable will of the Armenian people, the address reads, in part. The road, which the Armenian nation passed during the formation of the Armenian identity and in the process of the establishment and maturing of the Armenian statehood, is heroic and glorious; our losses only strengthened our desire to live, our mind was channeled towards creation, our power was aimed at establishing peace. Lets be grateful to all those who in 1918 had created the First Armenian Republic, from 1920 the Soviet Armenia, and in 1991 reestablished the independent Republic of Armenia, to all those who for almost three decades have been preserving it. Security and sustainable development of Armenia and the Armenian people is a pan-national issue. And pan-national issues can be addressed only through the pan-national efforts, utilizing the entire potential and abilities of Armenia, Artsakh, and Spyurk [Diaspora]. We need to form a General National Agenda with the common, paramount issues of vital significance and priorities; each and every one of us should be involved in the process of the decision making of our common issues. With this regard, the role of our youth is indispensable. Today, I appeal to the younger generation which lives in Armenia, Artsakh, in different corners of the world and urge them to unite on the soil of our independent Homeland. Today you have the best opportunity to live and advance on your own land, to reckon and dream about tomorrow, to make Fatherland a unified idea and a powerful and viable state unit. We cannot be content with the achievements we had in the past; today we have a historic chance to make our country even better, to make our country even stronger and more than ever we can and we must, all together to make the triple power and potential of Armenia, Artsakh, and Spyurk serve Armenia. I am confident that the history of the next centuries of our statehood will be signified by the unity of Armenian nation, new success and victories achieved through the creative labor. Now Hrayr Tovmasyan has the opportunity to prove how much he is connected to the former authorities and how much he is connected to the laws of the Republic of Armenia. This is what Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Armenia Alen Simonyan told journalists at the Battle of Sardarapat Memorial Complex today. Well see how he works now. Well see what decisions he makes. The people of the Republic of Armenia are the bearers of power, he said. Simonyan noted that the whole judiciary was established to serve the former authorities. You journalists have talked about political prisoners several times, and there have been cases when there was violence against journalists. The current judiciary is causing problems for the new authorities, and they are trying to correct it, Simonyan said. By Ritah kemigisa Economists have welcomed the creation of new cities in Uganda saying urbanization is the future of Ugandas development. Ramathdan Goobi says for growth to take place, there is need to spread and widen the scoop of development by extending services to other regions other than the central city of Kampala. He adds that creating regional cities is one way of attracting more investors who can put up businesses that can in one way spur growth. Goobi argues that having more people staying in the villages and not towns has continued to make Uganda grow at a slow rate because the countrys economic activities are concentrated in the central Cabinet recently approved the creation of 9 cities in a phased manner among them; Fort portal, Jinja, Mbarara, Gulu and Arua which will be effected on 1st July 2020. On the evening of May 27, wife of the Prime Minister of Armenia, chairperson of the boards of trustees of the My Step and City of Smile charitable foundations Anna Hakobyan hosted twenty 5th grade students of the St. Stephens Armenian Elementary School of Boston along with her daughter, Arpi Pashinyan at the governmental mansion. During a visit to the St. Stephens Armenian Elementary School of Boston in April, Anna Hakobyan learned that the students were going to spend their vacation in Armenia in late May and promised to host them. During the meeting, the children said they had visited Artsakh, the Battle of Sardarapat Memorial Complex and several museums in Yerevan during their vacation. They opened up and said they would like to visit Armenia every year. When student Vardan Arakelyan asked Anna Hakobyan if it was easy to be the wife of the Prime Minister, Hakobyan said her life has never been easy since her husband, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has always fought against injustice, been persecuted, gone underground and even been in jail while being an editor of a newspaper and a deputy of the National Assembly. Were currently working hard and doing everything we can to solve the problems facing Armenia. My life has changed because now everyone knows me, and its very hard to even walk in the city. However, I accept all the changes with pleasure because I know the time has come to serve our country, Anna Hakobyan said. YEREVAN. One of the secrets of Armenias rapidly developing IT industry is talented, young and enthusiastic Armenian IT professionals. Co-founder of DISQO startup Drew Kutcharian shares this opinion. Speaking to Armenian News-NEWS.am, Drew Kutcharian said that this is his second visit to Armenia in six months since the Armenian office has been established in Yerevan. According to him, Armenian professionals have very high engineering potential. This can be proved by the fact that during the past six months the company has already attracted 30 senior specialists. We are now seeking new professionals. The secret is that we are using high technology, and this attracts new employees, said Kutcharian , whose company works on developing its own product providing the highest quality first-hand consumer data to the worlds largest market research and analytics companies. The Armenian team member have traveled to DISQO's headquarters in Los Angeles for trainings during the last six months. He believes the advantage of having an office in Armenia is a rich labor market. As for the shortcomings, he was able to point out time difference which could create certain problems. The company, which has already moved to a larger office, is proud to be able to create an environment for growth and development of Armenian professionals, and to prevent brain drain from the country. The co-founder of the startup noted that Armenia's IT field is unique because everyone involved in this sector is happy to see the achievements of others. There are really talented specialists in Armenia, but the most important about our company is the desire to learn something new and to challenge yourself, he said. Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen was dismissed on Tuesday from government ministers headed by Chancellor Sebastian Kurtz and ordered them to temporarily fulfill their duties until the formation of a transitional government of the republic, Reuters reported. Van der Bellen said he would formally relieve the government of its duties at 11:30 a.m. (0930 GMT) on Tuesday but ask ministers to stay on for a small number of days until a solution for a new provisional government were found. Vice Chancellor Hartwig Loeger would lead until then, he said. The reshuffle in the Austrian government occurred after the National Council - lower house of parliament - passed a vote of no confidence on May 27 in connection with the government crisis against the backdrop of the loud resignation of former Vice Chancellor Heinz-Christian Strache. Kurtz has now become the most "short-lived" Austrian Chancellor: he was in power in 2017-2019 for 525 days and beat the ex-Chancellor Christian Kern's anti-record, whose powers lasted 580 days in 2016-2017. In the near future, 53-year-old Loeger will represent Austria at the EU summit in Brussels. Previously, Loeger held for 1.5 years the post of Minister of Finance in the Kurtz government and was also nominated by him for the post of vice-chancellor after the resounding resignation of Heinz-Christian Strache. Prior to joining the Kurtz government, Loeger was not a politician, but a financier. In 2011-2017, he served as Chair of the Board of the largest Austrian insurance company UNIQA. After the termination of powers of Gagik Harutyunyan, Gevorg Danielyan, who is temporarily performing the duties of the President of the Supreme Judicial Council, immediately addressed the National Assembly of Armenia to fill the vacancy of lawyer-academic member of the Supreme Judicial Council, Gevorg Danielyan reported to Armenian News-NEWS.am. As far as filling the vacancy of judge member is concerned, there is still a problem with that. One of the spots of a judge member remained vacant in the Supreme Judicial Council after Judge Ruzanna Hakobyans powers were terminated by the Supreme Judicial Council on October 27, 2018, and the Council hasnt been able to elect a new member during the General Assembly of Judges. Gevorg Danielyan told Armenian News-NEWS.am that the Supreme Judicial Council will hold a consultation and will need to address the Consultative Council of European Judges (CCJE) to learn the position of the CCJE on the issue. When asked if it possible to organize a voting to fill the vacancy of judge member and elect a new president of the Supreme Judicial Council, Danielyan said he thinks so, but the Council will address the matter. The Judicial Code of Armenia prescribes that the candidates of all members elected by the General Assembly of Judges or the National Assembly shall be secretly voted for the election of President of the Supreme Judicial Council. Former Ambassador of Poland to Armenia Yezhi Marek Novakovsky is surprised by the call of Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan to block the entrances to and exits from courts in Armenia. This is what he said during a press conference at the Center for East European Studies in Poland, reports Aravot.am. According to him, Nikol Pashinyan still hasnt understood the difference between being the head of state and being the leader of a revolution. The ambassador says what happened was absurd and said what he means by that is that the initiatives for judicial and legal reforms were declared quickly after the preventive measure of second President of Armenia Robert Kocharyan was changed. Of course, Novakovsky supports the reforms in the judiciary, but he can only call this the governments efforts to make the judicial power be submissive to the government. In general, Novakovsky doesnt understand why jailing Robert Kocharyan, Yuri Khachaturov and other ex-officials became the priority issue for Nikol Pashinyan when people were expecting him to lead a real fight against corruption and make structural changes. Kazakhstan and Armenia have never had any problems and have good relations. This is what First President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev said during his meeting with Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan, who is on a working visit to Kazakhstan. Nursultan Nazarbayev welcomed the Prime Minister of Armenia to the Republic of Kazakhstan and stated the following: Dear Nikol Pashinyan, thank you for coming to participate in the anniversary summit of the Eurasian Economic Union. Kazakhstan and Armenia have never had any problems and have godo relations. The Armenians of Kazakhstan are our citizens. They unite us Kazakhs. Recently, there has been more trade between our countries, but the trade relations have been lagging due to bad logistics. We have things to exchange with each other, and we have to work in this direction. You know that I made the decision to resign after thinking deeply. When you reach my age and have the experience I have, you will understand me better. June 20th would mark thirty years of my term as President of Kazakhstan. In 1989, I was elected First Secretary of the Communist Party of Kazakhstan, and before that, I was a government official. I have worked hard and have seen many things. In the last years of independence, we managed to increase Kazakhstans reputation, and I believed it was time for me to resign. However, I continue to work. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has been working with me for 30 years. He is very educated, and I am certain that our relations with Armenia will be as good as they were before my resignation. Expressing gratitude to Nursultan Nazarbayev for the cordial reception, Armenias Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated the following: Thank you Mr. Nazarbayev. Of course, I am glad to visit your country, the capital of which was built by you. You are a political leader who symbolizes an entire era. You participated in the establishment of the Commonwealth of Independent States and actively participated in the creation of the Collective Security Treaty Organization. Armenia is a CIS country and founding member of the CSTO. Everyone knows that you proposed the idea of Eurasian integration. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Eurasian integration and the 5th anniversary of the Treaty on the Eurasian Economic Union. Of course, Armenia is very excited about the events taking place in Kazakhstan and the political changes that you have initiated. We are certain that your initiative is for the benefit of Kazakhstan and the Kazakh people. Of course, by the Constitution, you remain the leader of the nation and the chairperson of the National Security Council. You will continue to play an active role in the Eurasian Economic Union, and tomorrow we will adopt a relevant decision on that. I am certain that Armenia will have the same cordial and constructive ties with the new President of Kazakhstan. Yes, Armenia and Kazakhstan have great political relations, but unfortunately, rather low volumes of activity in the economic sector. I believe there is an opportunity to work in this direction since new opportunities are being created in the 21st century. We have great and very cordial relations. You have made great personal contributions to those relations, and I hope and am certain that the relations will continue with that spirit. Nikol Pashinyan and Nursultan Nazarbayev exchanged views on Kazakh-Armenian relations, touched upon the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and attached importance to peace and stability in the region. During a May 28 meeting with his supporters, second President of Armenia Robert Kocharyan gave a speech, the video recording of which has been posted on the non-official Facebook page of Robert Kocharyan. About a decade ago, it seemed to me that the main events of my life were in the past and that I would be living a very tranquil and predictable life, but I was wrong. It also seemed to me that my possible and impossible life experiences were also in the past, but I was wrong. A prison deprives you of freedom, but only in the physical sense, and no prison can restrict your freedom of thought, and it gives you a very serious and new motive to move forward and lead a struggle, and I am happy to see that Im not going to lead ths struggle alone and that there is a team of very active and interesting people with whom I will move forward and achieve new victories. I thank all of you for your support. Frankly, a year ago, I had no idea that there are so many things that have yet to be done, Robert Kocharyan said. Kocharyan also noted that even though the meeting with his supporters coincided with the day marking the anniversary of the First Republic of Armenia, it is also symbolic. Members of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation-Dashnaktsutyun (ARF-D) political party werent invited to the unveiling of the monument to Aram Manukyan erected in Sardarapat with a donation from ARF-D Toronto Chapter. The sponsor of the monument, Mr. Janbazian, waited at the museum until the monument was unveiled so that he could approach the monument erected through his donation. This is what Director of Armenias Fifth Channel TV Company Harutyun Harutyunyan wrote on his Facebook page. His Facebook post particularly reads as follows: The entrance of the cavalry of Artsakh into Sardarapat changed the course of the Battle of Sardarapat and placed the Republic of Armenia on the world map. On his Facebook page, hero of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh Republic), Lieutenant-General Arshavir Gharamyan congratulated all Armenians on the occasion of the First Republic of Armenia (the holiday has become a symbol of the renaissance of Armenian statehood) and added the following: This is the first time since independence that Artsakh is not officially participating in the festivities taking place in the Republic of Armenia. P.S.: Artsakh is not officially participating, meaning there was no official invitation. Do you understand? P.S. 2: Members of the ARF-D were also not invited to the unveiling of the monument to Aram Manukyan erected in Sardarapat through a donation from ARF-D Toronto Chapter. They said the Prime Minister had to unveil the monument with his bodyguards and didnt send invitations to extra-parliamentary forces. Lets understand this as well and move forward. The sponsor, Mr. Janbazian waited at the museum until the monument was unveiled and then approached the monument erected through his donation. P.S.3: All is fair, dear people. We are in an atmosphere of love and tolerance. Really. Mount St. Marys University seniors Kaitlyn Heintzelman and Elizabeth OHare have earned prestigious Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) awards to teach in Luxembourg and Poland respectively, in 2019-20. The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is designed to provide research, study and teaching opportunities through grants in over 140 countries to recent graduates and graduate students. The ETA programs enable award winners to join local English teachers in their respective countries to provide assistance through teaching the English language as well as communicating and representing American culture. I am excited that Kaitlyn and Liz have earned the opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture and learn more about themselves as individuals before going on to graduate school or their career, said Assistant Professor of History Jamie Gianoutsos, Ph.D., who directs the Office of Competitive Fellowships. Six Mount students have been awarded Fulbright ETA grants since 2015, according to Gianoutsos. Alyse Sphiehler, C17, taught English on her Fulbright fellowship in Altacomulco, Mexico, last year. Two other 2017 graduates were awarded ETA grants to Kazakhstan and Argentina but declined them to pursue other studies. Brigid Flay is pursuing an MA at the Middlebury Institute for International Studies, where she is studying international trade and economic diplomacy, and Samantha Solis is earning a Ph.D. in English at UCLA, with a focus on contemporary American literature and Latin literature. John-Paul Heil, C15, a finalist for the Fulbright ETA to Italy in 2015, declined the award to pursue his doctorate in history at the University of Chicago. Kaitlyn Heintzelman, C'19, a triple major in English, French and theology, will spend the next year in Luxembourg. The Luxembourg ETA appealed to Heintzelman because of the countrys diverse community and generosity in accepting Syrian refugees. By witnessing a society that treats foreigners as neighbors, I desire to understand Luxembourg, its struggles and successes, and to better understand my own countryand why we follow admirable ideals, but have trouble executing those ideals, said Heintzelman. I want to volunteer with the CCPL, Confederation de la Communaute Portugaise au Luxembourg, a foundation through which I could tutor Syrian refugees in French. Heintzelman, who is the editor of the Mounts literary journal Moorings, also hopes to join an English fiction and poetry club. It's an ideal way for students to experience U.S. culture outside the classroom and I want to use one of my own passions to promote intercultural exchange, she explained. Serving as an ETA will help Heintzelman develop her teaching and language skills before she pursues graduate studies in French literature and becomes a French professor. She has tutored peers in French for two years at the Mount and possesses TEFL certification through CIEE. She spent a semester studying in Dublin, Ireland, and more than a month studying in France in the summer before her sophomore year. In addition to teaching her how to be flexible with her ideas, the Fulbright application process helped Heintzelman identify the topic for her French senior seminar paper. When Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures Chair Marco Roman learned that Heintzelman was applying for a grant in Luxembourg, he suggested that she would enjoy reading French writing by Luxembourg poet Anise Koltz. I fell in love with her poetry and wrote my French Senior Seminar paper on how she expressed emotion at life, death and God, she exclaimed. Heintzelman expressed gratitude for the professors who wrote her recommendations: Ed Egan, Ph.D., Sean Lewis, Ph.D., and Marco Roman, Ph.D., as well as to Gianoutsos and Christine Blackshaw, Ph.D., associate professor of Spanish and associate director of the Office of Competitive Fellowships. I'm very grateful to Dr. Blackshaw and Dr. Gianoutsos because they followed along through every stage of the writing process, and as a result, they read many, many versions of my application, Heintzelman said. Elizabeth OHare, a biology and biochemistry major, decided to turn down the Fulbright award in favor of the Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) program through Notre Dame University. The program places recent college graduates at Catholic schools throughout the country while they earn their Master of Education. OHare will teach biology and anatomy and physiology at Cantwell Sacred Heart of Mary High School in Montebello, CA for two years while taking M.Ed. classes at Notre Dame in the summers. This program will allow me to explore my interest in teaching, provide me a degree to continue teaching after if I decide that is what I am called to, and give me the opportunity both to be formed and to help form future leaders (and saints), OHare said. It was certainly a difficult decision to give up the Fulbright, but my heart was with ACE. OHare credits the Fulbright application process with giving her the opportunity to understand what I want to do, why, and how to articulate my aspirations and interests to others. Every draft of my Personal Statement and Grant Purpose strengthened my writing and taught me how to eloquently share myself with others. She expressed her gratitude to Blackshaw and Gianoutsos as well as Competitive Fellowships Committee members Thane Naberhaus, Ph.D., and Garth Patterson, Ph.D. for encouraging and guiding her throughout this process. OHare is grateful for Katie Dye, Ph.D., associate professor of biology, Kristin Sites, assistant director of learning services, and Eric Jelin, MD, of Johns Hopkins University for writing recommendation letters. "The Mount has truly provided a home for me to grow in knowledge, professionalism, and, most importantly, faith," said O'Hare who thanked Blackshaw, Gianoutsos, Naberhaus and Patterson for "challenging me to apply my experiences on campus, in the hospital and lab, and abroad to my post-graduate work." The requested page is currently unavailable on this server. Back to [RTHK News Homepage] Intel on Tuesday unveiled its 10th Gen Intel Core processors at the Computex 2019 trade show and also revealed new details about its innovation programme -- "Project Athena" -- that will level up mobile computing. The new 10th Gen Intel Core processors are now shipping, with original equipment manufacturers (OEM) systems expected to be available by end 2019. "10th Gen Intel Core processors -- our most integrated CPU -- and 'Project Athena' are great examples of how our deep investments at a platform level will help fuel innovation across the industry," Gregory Bryant, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Client Computing Group, said in a statement. The company's first 10th Gen Intel Core processors bring high performance AI to the PC at scale with its Deep Learning Boost (Intel DL Boost). The processors are built on the company's 10nm process technology, new "Sunny Cove" core architecture and new Gen graphics engine. The 10th Gen Intel Core processors will range from Intel Core i3 to Intel Core i7, with up to four cores and eight threads, up to 4.1 max turbo frequency, and up to 1.1GHz graphics frequency. The highly-integrated 10th Gen Intel Core processors give (OEM) partners the freedom to innovate on design and aesthetics by reducing the silicon footprint while still delivering the latest and greatest standards and world-class performance. Read More news: Corporate India's Reaction on Modi's Comeback US govt shutdown hurting markets, no agreement in sight yet (Adds quotes, details) By Tom Miles GENEVA, May 28 (Reuters) - Countries at the World Health Organization agreed on Tuesday to push for clearer drug pricing, after watering down a draft resolution that would have also required pharmaceutical firms to disclose the cost of making medicines. The deal calls on governments to share more information about the prices they pay for drugs, which can vary widely around the world and are often kept shrouded in secrecy. It was hailed as a landmark by WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and "enthusiastically welcomed" by the United States, which had advocated making pricing clearer while allowing firms to keep their research costs secret. However, Britain, Germany and Japan, which have healthcare systems that depend on negotiating steep discounts from drug companies to keep their costs down, said the debate had been rushed and called for the issue to be studied more closely. An earlier draft of the text would have also given the WHO explicit powers to collect and analyze data on the costs of making and testing drugs. That wording was omitted from Tuesday's draft. Activists say drug companies should be obliged to disclose how much their products actually cost to design and make. Drug companies argue that such data can be a commercial secret, and that prices should be set based on a drug's benefit to patients. FIRST STEP Gaelle Krikorian at medical charity MSF called the resolution a "welcome first step" but said it needed to go further to force drug companies to disclose more. "We need to know the mark-ups corporations charge, production costs, the cost of clinical trials, how much investment is really covered by companies, and how much is underwritten by taxpayers and non-profit groups," she said. The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations industry lobby group said the resolution's "single focus" on price fell short of the complexity needed to address issues about affordability and access to medicines. Story continues The resolution, which was initially proposed by Italy, urges governments to publicly share information on net prices. WHO member states will also support dissemination of information about the costs from clinical trials, if it is already publicly available or voluntarily provided. James Love, head of the transparency campaign group Knowledge Ecology International called the resolution a "solid start" in addressing the issue of opaque drug prices, but said the text made "tortured dances around R&D costs." "This will be seen by industry as language making costs data confidential information," he said on Twitter. The negotiations over the resolution showed how difficult the issue of drug pricing can be. In many countries, the government negotiates bulk discounts with companies in secret. In the United States, where drug prices are frequently far higher than in other rich countries, they are usually set commercially by insurance companies and benefits managers. Germany's delegate Dagmar Reitenbach described the negotiations over the resolution as acrimonious, harmed "by leakage of perceived positions with a view to intimidate some delegations publicly, accompanied by incorrect information regarding (their) reasoning." (Reporting by Tom Miles Editing by Peter Graff) (Adds details from UK trade minister, background) CAIRO, May 28 (Reuters) - Bombardier Inc said its consortium has been named as Egypt's preferred bidder for a 3 billion euro ($3.4 billion) contract to build a monorail link out of Cairo, part a flagship project of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. If confirmed, it would be the largest project in recent years for Bombardier's rail division, the group's biggest business, which has recently faced challenges, and it would likely create jobs in the UK where the Canadian company builds rolling stock. Bombardier said in a statement that Bombardier Transportation had teamed up with two Egyptian companies - Orascom Construction and the Arab Contractors - to bid for the contract to build a 54-kilometer (34-mile) monorail system connecting a new capital city with eastern Cairo. The contract also includes construction of a second, 42-kilometer line linking 6th October City with Giza. The new capital is being built in the desert east of Cairo. Its construction has been delayed amid financing concerns but it is a top priority for Sisi. British Trade Minister Liam Fox said the deal would generate jobs in Britain and that work could start later this year. "We're now getting to the financing elements of the agreement," he said in an interview during a visit to Cairo. Bombardier are "keen to get working if they can in the third quarter of this year. It's quite a tall order but it reflects I think their level of ambition for this project," he said. "I think the government here wants to see quick results, I think the company want to see quick results." The monorail's design and build contract has a potential value of 1.2 billion euros for Bombardier Transportation, while a 30-year operations and maintenance deal has a potential value of about 1.1 billion euros, the company said. Egyptian officials have said they expect the first civil servants to start working from the new capital in mid-2020. Story continues Bombardier's rail division has seen recent delivery delays and production problems on a handful of long-term projects, forcing the Canadian company to cut its first-quarter and full-year revenue targets for the division. Earlier this month, the Canadian company said it would merge its corporate and regional jet units, besides selling off two aerostructures operations. Orascom, an engineering and building business, is controlled by Egypts prominent Sawiris family. Arab Contractors is a major state-controlled construction firm. ($1 = 0.8938 euros) (Reporting by Aidan Lewis in Cairo, Arathy S Nair in Bengaluru and Allison Lampert in Montreal; Editing by Susan Fenton) (Adds detail, background, quotes) By Alistair Smout LONDON, May 28 (Reuters) - British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said it would be "political suicide" to pursue a no-deal Brexit through a general election, adding he would look for more time to secure a new Brexit deal if he replaced Prime Minister Theresa May. Hunt pitched himself against other leading candidates to replace May, saying that a promise to leave the European Union by a specific date with or without a deal would be blocked by lawmakers who oppose no-deal and trigger a national election. "Trying to deliver no deal through a general election is not a solution; it is political suicide," Hunt wrote in Tuesday's Daily Telegraph. "A different deal is, therefore, the only solution and what I will pursue if I am leader." Hunt is among ten Conservative lawmakers who have so far put themselves forward to replace May as party leader and prime minister. Frontrunner Boris Johnson has said that Britain should leave "deal or no-deal" on October 31, while Kit Malthouse, an outsider for the role, said no-deal was not his preferred outcome but Britain should be prepared for it. Although Hunt voted to remain in the European Union in the 2016 Brexit referendum, he says he now believes in Brexit. "I have always believed that no deal is better than no Brexit, but parliament has passed laws to stop a government willingly walking into no deal," he said. Instead of pursuing no-deal, Hunt said he would look for a different deal to the agreement negotiated by May, which failed to get approval three times from British lawmakers. He said that he would seek to take Britain out of the customs union while "respecting legitimate concerns" around the Irish border. May's deal foundered on the controversial Irish border "backstop" which could see the province linked indefinitely to the bloc, angering May's Unionist allies in Northern Ireland and Brexit supporters who want a decisive split from the EU. Story continues Hunt said that the EU did not want Brexit hanging over them and so could be open to renegotiation of the backstop. "The last thing they want is to make a concession to what they see as Britains populist movement," Hunt said of the EU. "But that does not rule out a reasonable and statesmanlike request to change the backstop for a different set of guarantees on the Irish border." (Reporting by Alistair Smout; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) (Adds details, background) HONG KONG, May 28 (Reuters) - China is "seriously considering" restricting rare-earth exports to the United States, the editor in chief of the Chinese tabloid Global Times said on Tuesday. Rising tensions have led to concern that Beijing will use its dominant position as a supplier of rare earths for leverage in the trade war between the United States and China. "Based on what I know, China is seriously considering restricting rare earth exports to the U.S. China may also take other countermeasures in the future," Hu Xijin wrote on his Twitter account. A senior official from China's state planner, the National Development and Reform Commission, said China will give priority to domestic demand but is also willing to meet reasonable demand from other countries for rare-earth resources. Chinese President Xi Jinping visited a rare-earth company in southern China last week, according to state media reports. The price of shares in rare-earth producers gained amid speculation Xis visit indicated China was considering using rare earths as a weapon in the trade war. China accounted for 80% of the rare earths -- a group of 17 chemical elements used in high-technology consumer electronics and military equipment -- the United States imported from 2014 to 2017. So far, Chinese rare-earth exports have been spared from recent tariffs by the United States, which has decided not to impose import duties on those and some other critical minerals from China as part of the trade war. Beijing, however, has raised tariffs on imports of U.S. rare-earth metal ores from 10% to 25% from June 1, making it less economical to process the material in China. (Reporting by Meg Shen in Hong Kong and Se Young Lee in Beijing; additional reporting by Tom Daly; editing by Larry King) SheKnows Halle Berry is having the best holiday vacation, relaxing by the ocean with nothing but a comforter covering her up. It looks like the most idyllic place to wake up after the frenzy of December. The actress shared the sultry photo on her Instagram page that showed her lounging on an outdoor bed overlooking the [] * Bill would strip historic academy of research institutions -report * Government says current research system is inefficient * European Commission says it is closely monitoring developments (Adds comment from Hungarian government and European Commission) BUDAPEST, May 28 (Reuters) - Hungary is preparing legislation that would strip the Hungarian Academy of Sciences of its body of research institutions, giving the government more control over scientific activity, the news website index.hu reported on Tuesday. Hungary's oldest and largest academic institution, the Hungarian Academy (HAS) is solely funded by the government but self-managing, with a network of scientific research bodies employing about 5,000 people. The planned measure, which has been resisted by academics and civil groups, would be the latest in a series of moves by the country's right-wing prime minister, Viktor Orban, to expand control, including steps concerning the courts, media, economy and education. Some of his measures have drawn criticism from the European Union. A months-long tussle between Orban's government and academics over the changes is moving towards its final stages with the submission of a bill to parliament expected in coming weeks, index.hu said, citing the draft legislation. The government has said the changes are needed to help Hungary shift towards more innovative industries. "The objective is that the additional resources devoted to domestic scientific research should be utilized in patents and inventions serving the Hungarian economy in earnest," the Innovation and Technology Ministry said in an emailed reply to questions about the report. "The current system is inefficient and Hungary has fallen behind," the ministry said, adding it believed the planned changes did not harm independent research. The European Commission said it supported the autonomy of academic institutions, both in terms of funding and self-government. Story continues "The Commission continues to closely monitor the developments in the Hungarian public research system while urging the authorities to refrain from any decision restricting scientific and academic freedom in the country," it said. A resolution passed by the Academy earlier this month said it disagreed with what it called the "political motivation for the arbitrary restructuring of the institutional network." The academy, which carries out scientific research using a network of specialized research institutions, receives 40 billion forints ($137.27 million) a year from the government. Index said the government proposal would move all the research units into a new public institution with a 13-member governing board comprising six government and six academy delegates. Orban would appoint the chairman based on a joint proposal by the board. Scientists have called for only a third of board members to be picked by the government. Index also said a new National Scientific Policy Council chaired by Innovation and Technology Minister Laszlo Palkovics, the architect of the academic overhaul, would make the proposals for main areas of research to be funded. Under the legislation, the academy would hand over the buildings and assets of its research institutions to the new state-run organization, the report said. ($1 = 291.4 forints) (Reporting by Gergely Szakacs Editing by Larry King and Frances Kerry) (Adds photos available) By David Brunnstrom WASHINGTON, May 28 (Reuters) - North Korea's entire weapons of mass destruction program violates U.N. Security Council resolutions, the U.S. State Department spokeswoman said on Tuesday, when asked about recent missile launches by Pyongyang. "I think the entire North Korean WMD program, it's in conflict with the U.N. Security Council resolutions. But what the U.S. is focused on here ... is in trying to negotiate a peaceful end to the North Korean WMD program," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus told reporters. Ortagus had been asked to make clear the State Department's position after President Donald Trump appeared to contradict his national security adviser, John Bolton, over whether North Korean launches this month had violated U.N. resolutions. Bolton said on Saturday there was "no doubt" that the launches had violated U.N. resolutions as they had included short-range ballistic missiles. Ortagus said the State Department had yet to share publicly its assessment of whether the launches had involved ballistic missiles. However, the Pentagon said on May 9 that launches by North Korea that day consisted of multiple ballistic missiles that flew in excess of 300 km (185 miles). During a visit to Japan on Monday, Trump alluded to Bolton's views and said he disagreed. "My people think it could have been a violation ... I view it differently," Trump said, adding that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had perhaps wanted "to get attention." Trump stressed that there had been "no nuclear tests, no ballistic missiles going out, no long-range missiles going out" and added that one day there could be a deal with North Korea to end its nuclear program. Asked whether Secretary of State Mike Pompeo agreed with Trump or Bolton, Ortagus said: "I don't think it was lost on any of us that the launches were an attempt to send a message to the administration." Story continues She added that the United States wanted denuclearization talks with North Korea to continue. "That's our focus here," she said. After two failed summits between Kim and Trump in the past year, North Korea test fired several rockets and missiles this month, including several guided missiles that experts said could be used to penetrate South Korean and U.S. defenses in the region. The missiles flew on a flattened, lower-altitude trajectory, leading some officials in South Korea to question whether they should be categorized as "ballistic missiles" and therefore a violation of U.N. resolutions. North Korea in a statement on Monday denounced Bolton as "more than ignorant" and said giving up missile tests would mean giving up the right to self-defense and that "whatever is launched is bound to fly drawing a ballistic trajectory." (Reporting by David Brunnstrom; Writing by Makini Brice; Editing by Lisa Shumaker) (Recasts with quotes from evening meeting, context, details) PARIS, May 28 (Reuters) - Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Tuesday said France was intensifying diplomatic efforts to prevent six of its citizens being executed in Iraq after they were sentenced to death for belonging to Islamic State. Iraqi courts sentenced two more French nationals to death on Tuesday, bringing the number of French Islamic State members facing the death penalty to six. Another four are due to be sentenced in the next week and 12 more are awaiting their fate, according to the French Association for Victims of Terrorism (AFVT), which has called for all French jihadists to be sent home to face trial. "On the six sentenced to death we have said and will repeat our position of being against the death penalty to the Iraqi authorities," Jean-Yves Le Drian told parliament's foreign affairs committee. Iraq is conducting trials of thousands of suspected Islamic State fighters, including hundreds of foreigners, with many arrested as the group's strongholds crumbled throughout Iraq. The French government has refused to take back Islamic State fighters and their wives, although a handful of children have been repatriated. It has called the adults "enemies" of the nation, saying they should face justice either in Syria or Iraq. Le Drian said there were some 400-450 French nationals held in Kurdish-controlled northern Syria, including children, and a further 100 fighting in the rebel-held Idlib region of Syria. With no recognized legal system in the Kurdish Syrian areas, Western countries have not opposed the transfer of some jihadists from the region to Iraq to face justice. More than a dozen French jihadists have already been transferred. The AFVT on Tuesday called on the French government to stop giving a green light for such militants to be moved to Iraq. It said France should pressure the government in Baghdad government to reduce sentences to life imprisonment so that those found guilty can be questioned by French judicial authorities. (Reporting by John Irish and Emmanuel Jarry Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta and Frances Kerry) * France seeks four guarantees in exchange for support * Wants French jobs preserved, board representation * Renault chairman in Japan for talks with Nissan * Nissan CEO says open to "constructive discussions" (Adds details on when Nissan found out about merger talks) By Sudip Kar-Gupta PARIS, May 28 (Reuters) - France will seek protection of local jobs and other guarantees in exchange for supporting a merger between carmakers Renault and Fiat Chrysler, its finance minister said on Tuesday, underscoring the challenges facing the plan. Renault Chairman Jean-Dominique Senard arrived in Japan to discuss the proposed tie-up with the French company's existing partner Nissan - another potential obstacle to the $35 billion-plus merger of equals. Renault and Italian-American rival Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) are in talks to tackle the costs of far-reaching technological and regulatory changes by creating the world's third-biggest automaker. Nissan found out about Renault's merger talks with Fiat Chrysler just days before they became public, four sources told Reuters, stoking fears at the Japanese carmaker that a deal could further weaken its position in a 20-year alliance with Renault. A deal between Renault and FCA would create a player ranked behind only Japan's Toyota and Germany's Volkswagen and target 5 billion euros ($5.6 billion) a year in savings. Analysts however caution the companies face a challenge to win over powerful stakeholders ranging from the French and Italian governments, to trade unions and Nissan. French finance minister Bruno Le Maire told RTL radio on Tuesday the plan was a good opportunity for both Renault and the European car industry, which has been struggling for years with over-capacity and subdued demand. CONDITIONS le Maire added the French government would seek four guarantees in exchange for backing a deal that would see its 15% stake in Renault reduced to 7.5% of the combined entity. Story continues "The first: industrial jobs and industrial sites. I told the Renault chairman very clearly that it was the first of the guarantees I wanted from him in the opening of these negotiations. A guarantee on the preservation of industrial jobs and sites in France," said Le Maire. The minister also said France wanted to be well represented on the board of the new company, for it to be a leader in developing electric batteries, and for the deal to take place "within the framework of the alliance between Renault and Nissan." A source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Monday that Renault and FCA had given commitments about maintaining industrial jobs and sites, leaving room for white-collar and engineering layoffs as well as some plant downsizing. Also on Monday, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said Rome might need to take a stake in the combined company, balancing France's shareholding. Le Maire said he had spoken to the Japanese personally about the proposed tie up. Asked how they had responded, he replied: "I look at the reaction of Nissan president Mr Saikawa, and it's a reaction that is open." Nissan Chief Executive Hiroto Saikawa likely first caught wind of the merger plan through his own chief operating officer, Yasuhiro Yamauchi, who also serves on Renault's board, a source said, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. Analysts have said Nissan, which is 43%-owned by Renault and has a 15% non-voting stake in the French firm, might be reluctant to back an FCA-Renault tie-up that would probably use its technology less than the current Renault-Nissan alliance. Saikawa told Japanese TV on Tuesday that "strengthening the alliance and constructive discussions are forward looking, and we are open to constructive discussions." The Renault-Nissan alliance has been under strain since the arrest and ouster of its former chairman Carlos Ghosn late last year on charges of financial misconduct, with Nissan recently rebuffing a merger proposal from its partner. Renault shares were up 1 percent by 1450 GMT, extending gains from Monday when the stock had closed up 12 percent. Fiat shares slipped in Milan but the U.S. listed stock jumped 7 percent after a public holiday on Monday. ($1 = 0.8933 euros) (Additional reporting by Laurance Frost, Myriam Rivet, Gilles Guillaume and Naomi Tajitsu Editing by Mark Potter and Keith Weir) * Recommends cap of 12 bcm vs current 19.4 bcm * Gov't preliminary output plan due next month * Quakes have prompted a series of output caps (Adds government response, detail) AMSTERDAM, May 28 (Reuters) - Production at the Groningen gas field in the Netherlands needs to be slashed by almost 40% to limit seismic risks, regulator SodM said on Tuesday, after a 3.4 magnitude earthquake hit the region last week. Authorities have been forced to repeatedly reduce output at what was once Europe's largest gas field due to dozens of minor tremors each year that have damaged thousands of homes and sparked protests by locals. Output should be cut for the year from October to no more than 12 billion cubic meters (bcm), the regulator said. But a government spokesman immediately poured cold water on the advice, saying it would be very difficult to reach the required level so fast. "We will look at ways to limit production further than currently planned, but lowering it below 12 bcm next year would have serious consequences for the safety of supply," spokesman Job van de Sande said. The government next month will publish its preliminary production plans for the year from October, Van de Sande said. "We will make it clear then how we plan to further reduce the demand for Groningen gas." Annual output stands at 19.4 bcm and had been set to fall to 15.9 bcm per year from October under plans set forth in February. "It will be an enormous challenge to reach 12 bcm, but we will try to get there as far as possible," Van de Sande said. A 3.4 magnitude earthquake prompted the Dutch government last year to promise to end Groningen production by 2030 and to lower output as quickly as possible in the coming years. SodM's new advise would mark a 38% cut versus the current year and a 25% reduction from plans set out in February to lower output to 15.9 bcm from October. "A certain amount of risk for the safety of supply needs to be considered in comparison to the risks of gas production for the people in Groningen," the regulator said. Story continues In February the government defended the target of 15.9 bcm for the year beginning October 2019, calling it the minimal level required to guarantee the country's safety of supply. The Netherlands still depends on Groningen gas for a significant part of its energy supply. Plans to reduce demand for Groningen gas include building extra capacity to convert high-caloric imported gas to the low-caloric gas needed for the Dutch network and switching large industrial users to other sources of energy. The government last year said this could allow a cut in production to less than 12 bcm by October 2021. The field is operated by NAM, a joint venture between Royal Dutch Shell and Exxon Mobil. Output hit a peak of 88 bcm in 1976 and stood at 54 bcm as recently as 2013. (Reporting by Bart Meijer; editing by Edmund Blair and Jason Neely) (Adds reaction, keyword slug for media clients) TOKYO, May 28 (Reuters) - The forced sterilization of two women decades ago as teenagers was unconstitutional, a Japanese court said on Tuesday, but rejected their demands for compensation, in the first of about 20 such cases closely watched nationwide, media said. Tens of thousands of people were sterilized, many without their consent, under a government program aimed at preventing the birth of "inferior descendants" that ran until 1996. Last month, Japan passed a law compensating the victims, many of whom were physically or cognitively disabled, while others suffered from mental illness, leprosy, now a curable disease, or simply grappled with behavioral problems. Tuesday's judgment, in the Sendai district court in northern Japan, was the first in a group of about 20 cases around the country suing the government for violations of human rights and demanding compensation. One of the women is in her 60s and the other in her 70s, and they had demanded compensation of 71.5 million yen ($653,100), national broadcaster NHK said. One of their lawyers told NHK that he was shocked by the compensation rejection, a view shared by one of the plaintiffs. "We've been fighting this for 20 years, but this result has left me speechless," NHK quoted the older woman as saying. It was not immediately clear why the compensation request was denied. Japan adopted the "Eugenics Protection Law" in 1948 as it struggled with food shortages and rebuilding a war-ravaged nation. Before it was revoked, an estimated 25,000 people were sterilized, with at least 16,500 not having given consent to procedures a eugenics panel could approve, often after a cursory review. Few records remain. Sterilizations peaked in the 1960s and 1970s, with the last surgery under the law dating to 1993. Although the most notorious eugenics laws were imposed by Nazi Germany, Japan is not the only nation with similar programs in peacetime. Most other countries revoked such measures in the 1970s. ($1=109.4800 yen) (Reporting by Elaine Lies; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and Darren Schuettler) (Adds comment from Jeff Bezos, paragraphs 5-7) May 28 (Reuters) - MacKenzie Bezos, the former wife of Amazon.com Inc Chief Executive Officer Jeff Bezos, pledged on Tuesday to give half of her $36 billion fortune to charity, following a movement founded by billionaires Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates. Bezos, whose former husband is the world's richest man, was one of 19 people on Tuesday to join the "Giving Pledge," a campaign announced in 2010 by Berkshire Hathaway Inc's Buffett and Microsoft Corp co-founder Bill Gates. It calls for the super-rich to give away more than half their fortunes during their lifetimes or in their wills. "In addition to whatever assets life has nurtured in me, I have a disproportionate amount of money to share," MacKenzie Bezos said in a statement dated Saturday. "My approach to philanthropy will continue to be thoughtful. It will take time and effort and care." MacKenzie Bezos became the world's third-richest woman, according a Forbes Magazine, acquiring a 4% stake in Amazon worth about $36 billion when she and Jeff Bezos announced their divorce settlement on April 4. Jeff Bezos, whose net worth was estimated by Forbes at $131 billion this year, was quick to support his ex-wife's new philanthropic endeavor. "MacKenzie is going to be amazing and thoughtful and effective at philanthropy, and I'm proud of her," he said on Twitter. "Her letter is so beautiful. Go get 'em MacKenzie." Jeff Bezos, who tops the Forbes list of world billionaires, is not among the 204 wealthy "Giving Pledge" signatories from 23 countries who come from a wide range of fields, including finance, technology, healthcare and real estate development. Other Forbes top 10 billionaires who have not joined the "Giving Pledge" are Bernard Arnault, head of French luxury goods conglomerate LVMH; Mexican telecommunications magnate Carlos Slim; European fashion retail mogul Amancio Ortega and Google co-founder and Alphabet CEO Larry Page. The pledge that signatories make is "a moral commitment to give, not a legal contract," the campaign said on its website. (Reporting by Peter Szekely in New York; Editing by Scott Malone and Bill Trott and David Gregorio) * EU leaders agree to pick names for bloc's top jobs by July * Decision complicated by EU election results * France opposes German candidate for Commission chief * Macron and Tusk seek two women in top positions (Adds summit ends, Macron quotes on leadership posts) By Gabriela Baczynska, Philip Blenkinsop and Michel Rose BRUSSELS, May 28 (Reuters) - European Union leaders engaged in a first skirmish on Tuesday over who should become the next chief of the European Commission, giving themselves a short deadline to agree on the bloc's top jobs and a target of assigning half of them to women. Chancellor Angela Merkel was upset with French President Emmanuel Macron's public dismissal of Berlin's preferred candidate, a center-right German lawmaker Manfred Weber, as the 28 national EU leaders bargained behind closed doors over the bloc's new leadership for the next five years. "The key for me is for the people at the most sensitive positions to share our project and be the most charismatic, creative and competent possible," Macron told reporters as the summit ended in Brussels. "It is important for me to have gender balance, that we name two men and two women," he added. A bloc-wide election last week returned a European Parliament with a splintered center and gains by pro-EU liberals and Greens as well as eurosceptic nationalists and the far right, making agreeing a common agenda harder. Held once every five years, the European Union election means new people will take over key EU institutions, including the powerful executive Commission. Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel described the race as searching for the next "Mr. or Ms. Europe." Stripped of their longtime combined parliamentary majority, the center-right European People's Party (EPP) and the center-left Socialists & Democrats (S&D) would no longer able to decide on the next Commission head alone in the new EU assembly. Story continues They are looking for support from the liberal ALDE and the Greens, since the four groups together would command enough seats to approve or reject any nomination by the 28 heads. The national government leaders agreed to finalize their nominations at their next gathering due on June 20-21, in time for the new EU chamber's first sitting due on July 2nd. "We agreed that it is essential for us to show we are capable of action and so we want by the June summit... to have... our proposal for the position of Commission president," Merkel told a news conference. Merkel said Macron needed to be realistic and take into account the fact that the EPP, which has nominated Weber for the Commission, would remain the biggest group in the new chamber. Luxembourg's Jean-Claude Juncker steps down on Oct. 31 as the head of the Commission, which acts as the EU's competition watchdog, monitors member states' budgets and proposes policies from climate change to tech regulation. Other big roles up for grabs later this year include the head of the European Parliament and the European Central Bank (ECB), the bloc's foreign policy chief and the head of the European Council who represents national government leaders. Both France and Germany have ambitions to have one of their own run the ECB after the current president, Italian Mario Draghi, leaves at the end of October. Neither is likely to secure both the bank and the Commission, officials say. The EU would risk an institutional logjam if talks drag on, leaving it unable to make pivotal policy decisions at a time when it faces a more assertive Russia, China's growing economic might and an unpredictable U.S. president. WOMEN Macron pushed against Weber, listing EU competition commissioner, Denmark's Margrethe Vestager, the bloc's Brexit negotiator, center-right Frenchman Michel Barnier, and Dutch Social Democrat Frans Timmermans as appropriate candidates. Spain and Sweden backed Timmermans, while Ireland and Croatia spoke for Weber. Luxembourg and Slovenia supported Vestager, one of few women in the running. "Gender balance means at least two women," said the summit chairman, Donald Tusk, who will now negotiate between capitals to come up with a list of names for approval by the 28 leaders. Eastern capitals demanded geographical balance in awarding the prominent Brussels roles. Poland and Hungary would strongly oppose Timmermans as he led the EU's rule of law probes against them in his current Commission vice-president role. Unanimity is not required though it is hard to see a candidate succeeding against the will of more than just a handful of leaders, as that would risk damaging their future cooperation and stalling the EU's decision-making. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, also mooted as a possible contender in the obscure recruitment process, said Tuesday's meeting was about "content rather than people," with focus on policy priorities, including climate change and migration. Merkel and Macron are due to hold more talks in the German town of Aachen on Thursday but one country already bound to see its EU representation diminished is Italy. Rome now holds three of the bloc's top five jobs but its eurosceptic swing and debt problems have left it isolated in the EU, with Spain seeking to claim the space. (Reporting by Jan Strupczewski, Philip Blenkinsop, Gabriela Baczynska, Alastair Macdonald, Francesco Guarascio, Robin Emmott, Daphne Psaledakis, Jean-Baptiste Vey, Michel Rose and Peter Maushagen; writing by Gabriela Baczynska; editing by Andrew Cawthorne and Grant McCool) (Recasts throughout with comments from the Mexican Finance Ministry's Financial Intelligence Unit, details) By Anthony Esposito MEXICO CITY, May 27 (Reuters) - Mexico's Finance Ministry said on Monday it had blocked the bank accounts of the former chief executive of state oil firm Pemex, one of ex-President Enrique Pena Nieto's closest advisers, for allegedly carrying out "illegal" financial operations. The ministry's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) identified the former CEO of Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex) as Emilio Lozoya Austin. It also said it froze the bank accounts of one of Mexico's largest steelmakers, Altos Hornos de Mexico, or AHMSA . The FIU said the accounts were frozen after "multiple operations were identified in the domestic and international financial system that were carried out with resources that allegedly do not come from lawful activities and which are presumed to have derived from acts of corruption." The Public Administration Ministry said on Wednesday it punished two Pemex senior executives from the previous administration of Pena Nieto for misuse of public funds in the purchase of fertilizer business Fertinal. It did not identify the executives. However, one of those executives was identified by people with knowledge of the matter as Lozoya. Two of those sources said Lozoya was barred from holding public office for 10 years but was not fined. Many of the problems at Pemex Fertilizers, a subsidiary created under Pena Nieto's liberalization of the energy sector, stem from its purchase of two fertilizer plants in 2013 and 2016, according to a scathing government audit of Pemex's 2017 operations. One of those plants was purchased from AHMSA. Pemex burned through $665 million at its fertilizer unit, ignored consultants and made high-risk investments with no discernible business strategy, the report said. The steps against Lozoya are among the first signs that the FIU, headed by Santiago Nieto, will look to make good on President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's promise to clean up rampant corruption, money laundering and the financing of organized crime. Story continues Lopez Obrador has also vowed to revive Pemex by clamping down on over-spending, rampant fuel theft and graft. AHMSA previously said in a statement the government had "improperly" frozen its bank accounts, saying the move was "unprecedented, arbitrary and violated (its) rights" and that it would defend its rights. It said it did not know why its bank accounts had been frozen and denied all responsibility for improper acts attributed to the firm. The FIU said it acted in accordance with the law and did not look to damage AHMSA's workers, shareholders or suppliers and that it would free up the bank accounts of the firms' workers on Tuesday. "The Mexican government's policy is zero tolerance for corruption and impunity," the FIU's Santiago Nieto said on Twitter. Investigative news site Quinto Elemento Lab reported last August that AHMSA paid $3.7 million to a shell company allegedly set up by Brazil's scandal-hit builder Odebrecht . (Reporting by Anthony Esposito Editing by Rosalba O'Brien and Paul Tait) * Israeli leader has until Wednesday to form government * Former defense chief Lieberman's party a crucial hold-out * Parliament takes initial moves towards new election * Netanyahu declared victory after April 9 ballot (Adds comments by Netanyahu business group) By Jeffrey Heller JERUSALEM, May 28 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to declare himself winner of last month's Israeli election, but he now has until Wednesday to appease an erstwhile ally, form a government and avoid a possible rematch. The man at the center of the crisis in Netanyahu's coalition-building, former Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman, is sticking to his guns in a stalemate over military draft exemptions for Jewish seminary students. The brinkmanship six weeks after the April 9 election poses another challenge to the decade-long reign of the right-wing leader some Israelis have hailed as "King Bibi" and deepens political uncertainty in a country riven with division. Barring a breakthrough, Israel could hold a new election, with parliament already making initial moves towards a fresh poll and legislators proposing September for the national vote. Without the support of Lieberman's far-right Yisrael Beitenu party, which has five seats in the 120-member Knesset, Netanyahu cannot put together a majority government led by his Likud party. Under a deadline mandated by law, he has until 2100 GMT on Wednesday to announce a new administration. One comment made by Netanyahu in a closed meeting with his Likud party members on Tuesday suggested the election moves were part of a high-stakes game of political poker meant to pressure all sides to compromise and end the crisis. "The clearer it is that we are heading to an election, the more chance we eventually won't hold an election," Netanyahu said. Political commentators were hedging their bets. "Netanyahu is a wounded animal. The man is fighting for his life, and we shouldn't make light of his abilities," columnist Yossi Verter wrote in the left-wing Haaretz daily on Tuesday. Story continues Rivals had smelled blood when Israel's attorney general said in February he intends to charge Netanyahu in three graft cases. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing, saying he is the victim of a political witch-hunt. But in the closely contested April election, Netanyahu - dubbed "crime minister" by his opponents - appeared on course for a fifth term as head of a right-wing bloc. All it would take, according to conventional wisdom, was the usual wheeling and dealing on cabinet posts and allied factions' pet projects. Few imagined Netanyahu would not put a coalition together, even after he asked for and received a two-week extension to an original 28-day deadline. WILD CARD Suddenly, Lieberman became a wild card and the clock was ticking, with Netanyahu facing a scenario in which President Reuven Rivlin could pick another legislator to try to form a government if he failed. "A lot can be done in 48 hours," Netanyahu said on Monday after parliament gave initial approval to a motion to dissolve itself. "The voters' wishes can be respected, a strong right-wing government can be formed," he added. If efforts to break the political deadlock fail, parliament would begin a final vote on an election late on Wednesday. A new ballot would mean Rivlin could not choose someone else to put together a governing coalition. But political commentators said it was still unclear if Netanyahu could muster the required 61 votes to pass the motion. The ball would then be in Rivlin's court, leaving Netanyahu, who last lost an election in 1999, on unfamiliar sidelines looking in. Lieberman, an immigrant from the former Soviet Union, began his climb up the Israeli political ladder as a Netanyahu aide and has long insisted ultra-Orthodox Jewish seminary students share other Israeli Jews' burden of compulsory military service. That has put him at odds with United Torah Judaism in the coalition negotiations, a schism that has played well with Lieberman's support base of Russian-speakers. "Yisrael Beitenu's only motive is standing on principle and the commitments we made to the public before, during and after the election," Lieberman said on Tuesday. But for long-time Lieberman watchers, it's a clear power play by a bare-knuckle politician who once worked as a nightclub bouncer and now seeks, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Tzipi Hotovely of Likud, to seize control of the "national camp." "According to Lieberman's calculations, Netanyahu's time in power is nearing its end. To preserve his own, he knows this is the moment to jump ship," Anshel Pfeffer, who wrote a biography of Netanyahu, said in Haaretz. "And he's doing so carefully, choosing a matter of principle - the military draft law ... as the issue on which to break with Netanyahu." Israel's main association of high-tech companies said another election could reflect poorly on the country and be bad for business. "The high-tech world, which sees Israel as a global compass in the sector, will see the holding of new elections as one big farce," Israel Advanced Technology Industries said in a statement. U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in on the internal Israeli political dispute. "Hoping things will work out with Israel's coalition formation and Bibi and I can continue to make the alliance between America and Israel stronger than ever," Trump tweeted on Monday, using Netanyahu's nickname. (Additional reporting by Maayan Lubell; Editing by Ed Osmond) According to the Tampa Bay Times, the Florida Bar has opened an investigation into the conduct of a lawyer who allegedly forced a raccoon off his boat after finding the animal had stowed away on board. This is an issue for a couple of reasons: (1) the boat was 20 miles out to sea at the time, and (2) the lawyer posted a video of the incident on social media, contrary to years of advice from legal bloggers not to post videos of incidents on social media: Given the distance from shore, the raccoon is now presumed to be dead. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission launched an inquiry into the apparent raccoon murder on May 8, but as the ABA Journal also reported today, the Florida Bar has now opened an ethics probe as well. This brings the matter firmly within my jurisdiction. Whether the Florida Bar has any jurisdiction, however, is a very different question. To start with, I wondered why the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission would be involved, because in no way, shape, form, or place is the raccoon considered an endangered species (to my knowledge). But Florida law appears to prohibit the taking of any fur-bearing animal without a permit, and raccoons are specifically listed in the definition of fur-bearing animal. In some states, raccoons are considered a nuisance species that people are basically encouraged to kill. See Virginians! You Now Have an Extra 22 Hours to Kill Raccoons on Sunday (July 23, 2018). But apparently not in Florida. Also, taking is defined very broadly, to include not only hunting but also merely pursuing the animal, whether or not one ends up in possession of it. So I suppose the commission could argue it has jurisdiction to investigate whether this guy illegally took the fur-bearing animal without paying the $25 fee first. More significant would be the potential criminal charge. As in most states, it is illegal under Florida law to unnecessarily torment or kill any animal, or cause the same to be done, and if this is done intentionally and results in the cruel death or excessive or repeated infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering upon said animal, its a third-degree felony. (You also cant use it in a simulated bullfighting exhibition, but maybe case law has limited that statute to bulls.) Well, he was plainly taunting the beast, but thats not the kind of torment the legislature had in mind, Im sure. As for the cruel death part, he might still have a decent necessity argument. He might plausibly have believed the thing could be rabid, and trying to trap it could be difficult and potentially dangerous. He could also argue, of course, that theres no evidence the raccoon is actually dead. The raccoon is presumed drowned, as the Times put it, but as I understand it isnt easy to prosecute if you dont have a body. And while no raccoon expert has yet answered any of my tweets, there is some evidence that raccoons can swim a significant distance. According to Raccoons: A Natural History, raccoons have been directly observed crossing rivers and lakes up to 1,000 feet wide. True, that would still leave the alleged victim here lets see 104,600 feet short of dry land, but it didnt say anyone saw a raccoon fail to cross something bigger. In fact, the same source says that raccoons regularly journey across salt water between several of the keys in south Florida. That seemed promising, but the greatest distance involved there seems to be about seven miles, and the author is probably talking about much shorter raccoon crossings. Still, we might have a basis for reasonable doubt here. But lets return to the question of why the Florida Bar has gotten involved. I know quite a bit about legal ethics, my friends, and I can tell you that theres nothing in the rules about raccoons. And the Bar only has jurisdiction over rules violations. Conduct can be unethical even if it isnt criminal (you know who you are), and conversely even criminal conduct may not violate the legal-ethics rules. In fact, its only a violation to commit a criminal act that reflects adversely on the lawyers honesty, trustworthiness, or fitness as a lawyer in other respects. Fla. R. Prof. Conduct 4-8.4(b). Throwing a raccoon overboard doesnt have anything to do with honesty or trustworthiness, unless you promised the raccoon you wouldnt, I guess. So the question is whether even felony animal crueltyassuming this qualifiedwould reflect adversely on the persons fitness as a lawyer. I think the answer is no, unless maybe there were a pattern of behavior that would raise a legitimate concern about the persons mental state, and theres no suggestion of that here. Certainly some crimes are so severelike, lets say, murder (of a human)that the Bar might consider the culprit basically disqualified from practicing law. On the other hand, it might not. See Convicted Killer Headed Back to Law School (Sept. 1, 2011). Here, while we might well consider the conduct despicable, seems like the Wildlife Commission and potentially the criminal-justice system has things under control, and the Bar doesnt need to get involved. Plus, I think we still need to hear from a raccoon expert. Lets not rush to judgment until we do. * U.N. issues report on "corruption, repression" in North Korea * Says N. Korean officials extort money from struggling population * Report based on testimony from 214 "escapees" from northeast * Pyongyang blames sanctions for dire humanitarian situation (Adds comments from defector, Seoul press conference) By Stephanie Nebehay GENEVA, May 28 (Reuters) - North Koreans are forced to pay bribes to officials to survive in their isolated country where corruption is "endemic" and repression rife, the U.N. human rights office said on Tuesday in a report that Pyongyang dismissed as politically motivated. The report said officials extorted money from a population struggling to make ends meet, threatening them with detention and prosecution - particularly those working in the informal economy. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), the formal name for North Korea, rejected the report, saying it was "politically motivated for sinister purposes." "Such reports are nothing more than fabrication ... as they are always based on the so-called testimonies of 'defectors' who provide fabricated information to earn their living or are compelled to do so under duress or enticement," its Geneva mission said in a statement to Reuters. North Korea blames the dire humanitarian situation on U.N. sanctions imposed for its nuclear and ballistic missile programs since 2006. But the report said that the military receives priority funding amid "economic mismanagement." "I am concerned that the constant focus on the nuclear issue continues to divert attention from the terrible state of human rights for many millions of North Koreans," Michelle Bachelet, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, said in a statement. "The rights to food, health, shelter, work, freedom of movement and liberty are universal and inalienable, but in North Korea they depend primarily on the ability of individuals to bribe State officials," she said. Story continues Four in 10 North Koreans, or 10.1 million people, are chronically short of food and further cuts to already minimal rations are expected after the worst harvest in a decade, a U.N. assessment said earlier this month. "The threat of arrest, detention and prosecution provide State officials with a powerful means of extorting money from a population struggling to survive," the U.N. rights office report said. CASH OR CIGARETTES Bribery is "an everyday feature of people's struggle to make ends meet," said the report, entitled "The price is rights." It denounced what it called a "vicious cycle of deprivation, corruption and repression." It is based on 214 interviews with North Korean "escapees," mainly from the northeastern provinces of Ryanggang and North Hamgyong, bordering China. They were the first to be cut from the public distribution system that collapsed in 1994, leading to a famine estimated to have killed up to 1 million, it said. "As my father still had to work at a state firm that could no longer afford giving rations, we survived by selling taffy and liquor my mom made," Ju Chan-yang, a 29-year-old defector, told a news conference hosted by the U.N. rights office in Seoul on Tuesday. Ju, who defected to the South in 2011, said she also made a living by selling banned South Korean and U.S. products in the underground economy. Sometimes she had to bribe authorities. "If you get caught and don't have bribes to pay, you could get executed, just like my relatives," she said. Many North Koreans pay bribes of cash or cigarettes not to have to report to state-assigned jobs where they receive no salary, thus allowing them to earn income in rudimentary markets, the report said. Others bribe border guards to cross into China, where women are vulnerable to trafficking into forced marriages or the sex trade, it added. "North Korea is a society where all of its members are involved in corruption because they're forced to do illegal acts only to survive," said Lee Han-byeol, who came to the South in 2001 and now runs a group that helps defectors. Bachelet urged North Korean authorities to stop prosecuting people for engaging in legitimate market activity and to allow them freedom of movement within the country and abroad. China should not forcibly repatriate North Koreans, she added. The United States called on North Korea this month to "dismantle all political prison camps" and release all political prisoners, who it said numbered between 80,000 and 120,000. North Korea denies the existence of such camps. (Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; Additional reporting by Hyonhee Shin in SEOUL; Editing by Hugh Lawson, Andrew Heavens and Darren Schuettler) (Adds details) GENEVA, May 28 (Reuters) - Violence in northwest Nigeria has forced around 20,000 refugees to flee to neighboring Niger since April, the United Nations refugee agency said on Tuesday. It voiced concern about deteriorating security conditions in the West African country, where military and police have been deployed to tackle criminal gangs behind a spate of killings and kidnappings. Security forces are already stretched tackling the decade-long insurgency by Islamist group Boko Haram in the northeast. "This is not Boko Haram related in any way," UNHCR spokesman Babar Baloch told a media briefing. "People are reportedly fleeing due to multiple reasons, including clashes between farmers and herders of different ethnic groups, vigilantism, as well as kidnappings for ransom," he said. The announcement came the day before the inauguration of President Muhammadu Buhari, the former military leader who secured a second term in February elections promising to improve security. The Senate, the country's upper house of parliament, last month increased the 2019 budget by 80 billion naira ($261 million) citing the need for a rise in spending on security across the country. Baloch said refugees arriving in Niger's southern Maradi region had reported machete attacks, kidnappings and sexual violence. Banditry has plagued the northwest for years, particularly around Zamfara state and its border with Kaduna state, though a recent spate of kidnappings and killings in the region has put it in the public eye. Authorities suspended mining in Zamfara in April amid concerns that illegal miners were connected to a rise in violence. Clashes between farming communities and nomadic herders over dwindling land in Nigeria last year killed more people than the Boko Haram conflict, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. ($1 = 306.4500 naira) (Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; Writing by Alexis Akwagyiram; editing by Jon Boyle and Andrew Heavens) (Adds union official) By Jean-Francois Rosnoblet and John Irish MARSEILLE/PARIS, May 28 (Reuters) - A French rights group sought on Tuesday to block the loading of what it said were munitions onto a Saudi Arabian ship docked in southern France, as pressure mounts on Paris to stop military sales to the kingdom. ACAT said in a statement it had filed a legal challenge to prevent the vessel from taking delivery of its cargo. "The Bahri Tabuk is due to load French weapons for Saudi Arabia, one of the main belligerents in the Yemeni conflict. ACAT is .... mobilizing and calling on civil society and local networks to prevent these munitions from going to Saudi Arabia," it said. Another Saudi ship left France's northern coast two weeks ago without a cargo of weapons after dockers threatened to block its arrival in the port of Le Havre. ACAT had also filed a legal challenge to stop that consignment being loaded, arguing that it contravened a U.N. treaty because the arms might be used against civilians in the Yemeni conflict. The Bahri Tabuk, which is owned by the same company as the previous Saudi vessel, docked on Tuesday afternoon and was due to load its cargo on Wednesday, dock workers union official Laurent Pastor told Reuters. Citing sources, online investigative site Disclose said on Tuesday the cargo to be loaded at the port of Marseille-Fos included munitions for Caesar howitzers. "It is out of the question that we load weapons or munitions for any war," Pastor said. He said the cargo had initially been due to include electrical transformers and that the union would check again on Wednesday. Defense Minister Florence Parly told lawmakers she had no information on the shipment and that in any case France had a partnership with Saudi Arabia. Eurenco, an affiliate of Nexter, which produces munitions for the Caesar, did not immediately respond for comment. Earlier on Tuesday, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian repeated calls for Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to end the "dirty war" in Yemen but defended French arms sales. Story continues "We have to be extremely vigilant on arms sales for these countries. That's what we are doing and we are completely respecting the treaty that concerns weapons trade," he said. Disclose in April published classified French military intelligence that showed weapons sold to Saudi Arabia, including tanks and laser-guided missile systems, were being used against civilians in Yemen's war. Four of its reporters have been questioned by France's internal DGSI intelligence agency over the leak, which the government has said is unacceptable. Rights groups have accused the French government of trying to intimidate the press and curb its freedoms. The saga is an embarrassment for President Emmanuel Macron, who has defended arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE arguing the two countries are crucial allies in the fight against Islamist militants. He has rejected allegations that French-made weapons are used offensively in Yemen. Riyadh leads the pro-government military coalition in the four-year civil war that has devastated Yemen. U.N. experts have said all sides in the conflict may have committed war crimes. (Reporting by Simon Carraud; Editing by Richard Lough and Catherine Evans) (Updates with Spanish Foreign Ministry reaction) MOSCOW/MADRID, May 28 (Reuters) - Russia summoned Spain's ambassador to Moscow on Tuesday after acting Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell referred to the country as an "old enemy," the Russian foreign ministry said on Tuesday. Borrell told Spanish newspaper El Periodico last week: "Russia, our old enemy, is once again saying, 'here I am,' and has returned as a threat, and China is also presenting itself as a rival." The ministry said Borrell's comment "damages the relations between Spain and Russia, the mutual perception of bilateral relations as friendly, based on a partnership and mutually-beneficial." The Spanish Foreign Ministry confirmed Russia's decision to summon the envoy and criticized it. "Russia's reaction has surprised negatively. We believe they have overreacted, interpreting in a bilateral way some reflections over global geopolitics made from a European perspective," a Spanish Foreign Ministry official said. Russia's relations with the West soured following the 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, leading to a string of economic sanctions against Russian companies, banks and business people. (Reporting by Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber in Moscow, Andrey Khalip in Lisbon and Belen Carreno in Madrid Editing by Frances Kerry) (Corrects to show police chief Qalaj, not not U.N. mission chief Zahir Tanin, said U.N. employees were arrested for joining barricade) By Fatos Bytyci and Aleksandar Vasovic BELGRADE/PRISTINA, May 28 (Reuters) - Serbia ordered its troops on full alert on Tuesday and Russia accused Kosovo of provocation after a Kosovan police anti-crime operation in a region populated mainly by Serbs led to clashes. At least 19 people were arrested and a Russian U.N. official detained in the operation. Five police and six Serb civilians were wounded in fighting, Kosovan official said. The incidents signaled rising tensions in four Serb-majority municipalities in northern Kosovo, parts of which remain largely outside control of Pristina and pledge allegiance to Belgrade. The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Kosovo appealed for calm. Belgrade said it viewed the Kosovan police operation as an attempt by Pristina to take control of northern parts of Kosovo which border Serbia. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic told parliament that Belgrade would try to "preserve peace and stability" but remained ready to react. "As the supreme commander, I have placed our army units in full combat readiness, if there is any serious endangering of order and people in the northern Kosovo, they will protect our people," he told deputies. Kosovan Foreign Minister Behgjet Pacolli said the operation had been carried out against criminal groups in northern Kosovo, where cross-boder smuggling is rampant. "It was normal work of our police and I believe it's not the last operation in Kosovo. Maybe today or the next days we will keep fighting the organized crime," Pacoli told reporters in the Slovak capital Bratislava. In Pristina, police chief Rashit Qalaj said a total of 19 Kosovan police officers had been arrested on suspicion of smuggling goods into the country. Eleven were ethnic Serbs, four ethnic Albanians and four were Bosniaks, he told a news conference. Story continues Law enforcement officers had faced "armed resistance," Qalaj said. Five policemen were wounded, one from a gunshot. Six Serb civilians were also hurt, he said. Majority-Albanian Kosovo declared independence in 2008, almost a decade after NATO air strikes wrested control of the territory away from Belgrade to end a counter-insurgency campaign by Serbian security forces. But Serbia, which under its constitution considers Kosovo an integral part of its territory, has been blocking Kosovo from membership of international institutions including Interpol and UNESCO. It also still provides financial aid to Serbs in Kosovo. RUSSIAN DETAINED Two United Nations employees, one of them Russian, were also detained in the Kosovo police operation. Both were later released after demands from the U.N. mission - known as UNMIK - and the Kremlin. They were taken to hospital for treatment. Qalaj said the Russian and a local staffer had been detained for joining a barricade. UNMIK was following the developments in northern Kosovo with great concern, U.N. mission chief Zahir Tanin said in a statement. "I urge all parties to abide by the principles of rule of law and dignity for all to life and liberty, and to help restore calm and security in the area," he said. Moscow, a close ally of Serbia, had wasted no time in demanding the immediate release of the Russian and criticizing the Kosovan government. "We consider the incursion of the Kosovo-Albanian special forces into the region's north...as yet another provocation from Pristina aimed at intimidating and squeezing out the non-Albanian population and establishing control over these areas by force," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement. The NATO peacekeeping force in Kosovo (KFOR) said it was ready to intervene if necessary and also appealed for calm. "Because of the political sensitivity of the moment...KFOR invites all the parties to deal with the disputes peacefully and responsibly, without any use of force or violence," NATO said. A day earlier, Serbia's Vucic had said Serbia had lost control over Kosovo and called for a compromise solution between Belgrade and Pristina to end the stalemated conflict. (Reporting by Fatos Bytyci in Pristina, Aleksandar Vasovic in Belgrade, Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber and Tom Balmforth in Moscow, Jan Lopatka in Bratislava, Editing by Angus MacSwan) (Adds quotes and details) KHARTOUM, May 28 (Reuters) - Sudan's alliance of opposition and protest groups held a general strike on Tuesday as tensions mounted with the country's military rulers over the transition to democracy. Dozens of Sudanese crowded outside their workplaces, including banks and hospitals, in the capital Khartoum while holding signs and chanting. "As companies, we provide services to citizens. We have announced our apologies for not providing these services today and tomorrow, in support of the revolution, in support of freedom, and in support of justice," said Mohamed El-Tayeb, a private-sector worker. Most staff in the medical sector, electricity offices and at the central bank as well as commercial banks observed the strike but other sectors were only partially affected. "We study the developments that have taken place in (other countries). That is why we have demands, that is why our martyr brothers have given so much," said Abdallah Othman, a worker at an aviation company. "That is why we have been subjected to arrests, some of whom are our colleagues here at the company. We have to fulfill our demands and achieve civilian rule." Talks between the ruling Transitional Military Council (TMC) and the Declaration of Freedom and Change Forces (DFCF) alliance are at a standstill despite weeks of negotiations over whether civilians or the military will have the upper hand in a sovereign body to lead the country during a three-year transition to democracy. Discussions are continuing at a lower level to try to work toward an agreement and there will be no backing down from what has already been agreed, TMC spokesman General Shams El Din Kabbashi told Al Hadath TV on Tuesday. The DFCF had said an initial two-day strike would encompass public and private enterprise, including the civil aviation, railway, petroleum, banking, communications and health sectors. If an agreement was not reached with the TMC, the DFCF said it would escalate by calling for an open strike and indefinite civil disobedience until power is handed to civilians. Story continues The TMC's deputy head, Lieutenant General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, who is known by his nickname Hemedti, repeated on Tuesday that the council was ready to hand over power swiftly. "If we find trust, we would hand over power tonight before tomorrow," he said. Many shops remained open while buses were still transporting residents, a Reuters witness said. The airport in Khartoum was operating normally, a civil aviation authority source and state news agency SUNA said. (Reporting by Ali Abdelatty and Hesham Hajali in Cairo; Writing by Lena Masri and Nadine Awadalla; Editing by Ed Osmond and Jonathan Oatis) (Adds details on Ashmawy and on Egyptian television footage, adds BENGHAZI to dateline) CAIRO/BENGHAZI, May 29 (Reuters) - Top Egyptian militant suspect Hisham al-Ashmawy was transferred to Egypt from eastern Libya in a military aircraft, Egyptian state television said on Wednesday. Ashmawy, a former Egyptian special forces officer, was apprehended in the Libyan city of Derna late last year and has been long sought by Cairo on charges of orchestrating a deadly desert ambush on police and other high-profile attacks. At least two private Egyptian television channels showed live footage of the military aircraft landing in Cairo airport and a presenter climbed inside to film a blindfolded and ear-muffed Ashmawy. "You're in Egypt, Hisham," the anchor said as an intelligence officer removed the ear-muffs. "Welcome back." Another unidentified detainee could also be seen handcuffed, blindfolded and ear-muffed. Two intelligence sources told Reuters the man was Safwat Zeidan, Ashmawy's personal guard. Ashmawy was then filmed limping towards a black vehicle parked on the tarmac while flanked by two security officers. The transfer came following a visit by Egyptian Intelligence Chief Abbas Kamel to Benghazi where he met with Libyan eastern commander Khalifa Haftar. Egyptian authorities say Ashmawy heads the Ansar al-Islam network, which claimed responsibility for an ambush against police in Egypts Western Desert in 2017. Egyptian officials also accuse the network, which they link to al-Qaeda, of an assassination attempt on a former interior minister in 2013. Ashmawy has been convicted in absentia to death in Egypt for attacks in Egypt, including a 2014 raid in which 22 Egyptian military border guards were killed near the frontier with Libya. Egypt, along the United Arab Emirates, is a supporter of Haftar's Libya National Army (LNA), which has been for two months battling to take the capital Tripoli, held by the internationally recognized government. The LNA has not been able to breach defenses in southern Tripoli suburbs. The conflict is part of chaos gripping Libya since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. (Reporting by Mohamed El-Sherif, Hesham Hajali and Ahmed Mohamed Hassan in Cairo, and by Ayman Warfalli in Benghazi Writing by Nadine Awadalla Editing by Cynthia Osterman and Matthew Lewis) (Fixes spelling of J&J lawyer in paragraph nine) By Ben Fenwick NORMAN, Okla., May 28 (Reuters) - Johnson & Johnson's greed led the drugmaker to use deceptive marketing to create an oversupply of painkillers that fueled the U.S. opioid epidemic, the state of Oklahoma alleged at the start of the first trial to result from lawsuits over the drug crisis. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter, who filed the multibillion-dollar case, argued in a state court in the city of Norman that J&J should be forced to pay for helping cause the "worst manmade public health crisis in our state's history." His case is the first to reach trial from around 2,000 lawsuits filed by state and local governments seeking to hold pharmaceutical companies responsible for a drug epidemic the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says led to a record 47,600 opioid-related overdose deaths in 2017. The non-jury trial came after Oklahoma resolved claims against OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma LP in March for $270 million and against Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd on Sunday for $85 million, leaving only J&J as a defendant. Brad Beckworth, a lawyer for the state, told Cleveland County District Judge Thad Balkman that New Brunswick, New Jersey-based J&J, along with Purdue and Teva, used misleading marketing beginning in the 1990s to push doctors to prescribe more opioids. Beckworth said J&J, which sold the painkillers Duragesic and Nucynta, marketed the opioids as "safe and effective for everyday pain" while downplaying their addictive qualities, helping create a drug oversupply. He said J&J was motivated to boost prescriptions not only because it sold opioid painkillers, but because it also grew and imported raw materials opioid manufacturers like Purdue used. "If you have an oversupply, people will die," Beckworth said. J&J lawyer Larry Ottaway countered that its products made up a small share of opioids prescribed in Oklahoma and carried U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved labels that warned of the addictive risks. Story continues "You have to examine the details because facts are stubborn things," he said. He also argued Oklahoma was seeking to "stretch" the bounds of a public nuisance statute in order to force it to pay up to $17.5 billion to help the state address the epidemic for the next 30 years. The case is being closely watched by plaintiffs in other opioid lawsuits, particularly the 1,850 cases consolidated before a federal judge in Ohio, who has been pushing for a settlement ahead of an October trial. Some plaintiffs' lawyers have compared the cases to litigation by states against the tobacco industry that led to a $246 billion settlement in 1998. (Reporting by Ben Fenwick in Norman, Oklahoma; Writing by Nate Raymond in Boston; Editing by Scott Malone, Jonathan Oatis and Bill Berkrot) (Adds tweet, context) DOHA, May 28 (Reuters) - Trump's national security adviser John Bolton arrived in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday ahead of talks scheduled for Wednesday, he said in tweet, amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran. "Just landed in the UAE. Looking forward to meeting with our Emirati allies tomorrow to discuss important and timely regional security matters," Bolton posted on Twitter. Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States after an attack this month on oil tankers in the Gulf. Washington, a close ally of Iran's regional rivals Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, blamed the attacks on Tehran, which denied the accusations. Bolton said last week that the United States had "deep and serious" intelligence on threats posed by Iran, without providing details. Washington has deployed a carrier strike group and bombers and announced plans to deploy 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict. Separately on Tuesday Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said his country was ready to engage in dialog with Gulf Arab countries in order to address the escalating tensions during a visit to Doha, the final stop in a three-country tour that included Kuwait and Oman. Saudi Arabia will host two emergency Arab summits in Mecca on May 30 to discuss the implications of recent drone strikes on oil installations in the kingdom, and the vessel attacks off the UAE coast. (Reporting by Ali Abdelaty; Writing by Eric Knecht; Editing by Alison Williams) (Adds background on dispute, paragraphs 8-13) By Lawrence Hurley WASHINGTON, May 28 (Reuters) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to decide whether the family of a Mexican teenager fatally shot while on Mexican soil by a U.S. Border Patrol agent who fired from across the border in Texas can pursue a civil rights lawsuit in American courts. It marks the second time the Supreme Court will consider the legal dispute involving Sergio Adrian Hernandez Guereca, who was 15 when he was slain in 2010 along the U.S.-Mexico border - a case that now will be decided during heightened U.S. tensions with Mexico over President Donald Trump's border policies. The justices will decide whether to allow the family's civil lawsuit seeking monetary damages from Border Patrol agent Jesus Mesa to proceed. The court previously ruled in the same case in 2017, but did not decide the important legal question of whether Hernandez's family could sue for a violation of the U.S. Constitution's Fourth Amendment, which bars unjustified deadly force. The lawsuit also states that Hernandez's right to due process under the Constitution's Fifth Amendment was violated. The justices instead threw out a ruling by the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that had barred the lawsuit and asked the lower court to reconsider the matter. The 5th Circuit last year again ruled against Hernandez's relatives, prompting them to seek Supreme Court intervention for a second time. The high court's action in this case likely will affect a similar case in which Border Patrol agent Lonnie Swartz fatally shot Jose Antonio Elena Rodriguez, a 16-year-old Mexican citizen, from across the border in Arizona. That case is also pending at the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court, with its conservative majority, generally has been reluctant to extend the scope of civil rights protections. For example, it ruled in 2017 that former U.S. officials who served under President George W. Bush could not be sued over the treatment of non-American citizen detainees rounded up in New York after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks. Story continues Trump has pursued hardline immigration policies including advocating a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. His administration urged the Supreme Court not to allow the Hernandez and Rodriguez lawsuits. The Texas incident took place in June 2010 on the border between El Paso and Ciudad Juarez in Mexico. The Border Patrol said at the time Hernandez was pelting U.S. agents with rocks from the Mexican side of the Rio Grande when he was shot. The lawyers for Hernandez's family dispute that account, saying he was playing a game with a group of teenagers in which they would run across a culvert from the Mexican side and touch the U.S. border fence before running back. The appeals court, in ruling that the lawsuit could not move forward, found that the family could not bring a claim that Hernandez's constitutional rights were violated. The family also sued the federal government but that was dismissed early in the litigation and is not part of the current case. The FBI said Hernandez was a known immigrant smuggler who had been pressed into service by smuggling gangs, guiding illegal immigrants into the United States. Mesa did not face criminal charges, though Mexico condemned the shooting. (Reporting by Lawrence Hurley; Editing by Will Dunham) * Indiana law was signed by Pence when he was governor * Republican-governed states pursue abortion restrictions (Adds quotes from Pence spokeswoman, Indiana attorney general and Planned Parenthood) By Lawrence Hurley WASHINGTON, May 28 (Reuters) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday sent a mixed message on abortion, refusing to consider reinstating Indiana's ban on abortions performed because of fetal disability or the sex or race of the fetus while upholding the state's requirement that fetal remains be buried or cremated after the procedure is done. Both provisions were part of a Republican-backed 2016 law signed by Vice President Mike Pence when he was Indiana's governor. The action by the justices comes at a time when numerous Republican-governed states including Alabama are approving restrictive abortion laws that the Supreme Court may be called upon to rule on in the future. In an unsigned ruling, with two liberal justices dissenting, the Supreme Court decided that a lower court was wrong to conclude that Indiana's fetal burial provision, which imposed new requirements on abortion clinics, had no legitimate purpose. The court has a 5-4 conservative majority. While that provision was not a direct challenge to the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide, the ruling gave anti-abortion proponents a victory at the Supreme Court, which soon may have to decide whether various state laws violate the rights recognized in that landmark ruling. But the court also indicated a reluctance to directly tackle the abortion issue at least for now, rejecting Indiana's separate attempt to reinstate its ban on abortions performed because of fetal disability or the sex or race of the fetus. The court left in place the part of an appeals court ruling that struck down the provision. Alyssa Farah, a Pence spokeswoman, said he "commends the Supreme Court for upholding a portion of Indiana law that safeguards the sanctity of human life by requiring that remains of aborted babies be treated with respect and dignity." Story continues "We remain hopeful that at a later date the Supreme Court will review one of numerous state laws across the U.S. that bar abortion based on sex, race or disability," Farah added. The court's ruling on the fetal burial issue noted that in challenging the measure the American Civil Liberties Union and women's healthcare and abortion provider Planned Parenthood did not allege that the provision implicated the right of women to obtain an abortion. "This case, as litigated, therefore does not implicate our cases applying the undue burden test to abortion regulations," the ruling said. Planned Parenthood said in a statement the fetal burial provision was an abortion restriction "intended to shame and stigmatize women and families." "While this ruling is limited, the law is part of a larger trend of state laws designed to stigmatize and drive abortion care out of reach. Whether it's a total ban or a law designed to shut down clinics, politicians are lining up to decimate access to abortion," added Jennifer Dalven, an American Civil Liberties Union lawyer. A TEST FOR THE COURT The case was one of the court's first major tests in the abortion context following last year's retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy, who was pivotal in defending abortion rights. Anti-abortion activists hope the high court will greatly narrow or even overturn the Roe ruling following Kennedy's departure. President Donald Trump replaced Kennedy with conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Liberal Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor said they disagreed with the Supreme Court's decision to reinstate Indiana's fetal remains provision. Conservative Justice Clarence Thomas wrote in a concurring opinion accompanying the ruling that the court will need to weigh in on whether states can ban abortions based on disability, race and gender. Indiana's law promotes "a state's compelling interest in preventing abortion from becoming a tool of modern-day eugenics," Thomas wrote. Alabama, Georgia, Missouri, Mississippi and other states have passed restrictive abortion laws in recent months. The Chicago-based 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a 2017 permanent injunction issued by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt against both provisions of Indiana's law. She found the measure violated the constitutional privacy rights recognized in the 1973 abortion ruling. The law forbade women from obtaining an abortion if the decision to terminate the pregnancy was based on a diagnosis or "potential diagnosis" of fetal abnormality such as Down syndrome or "any other disability" or due to the race, color, national origin ancestry or sex of the fetus. Indiana said the state has an interest in barring discrimination against fetuses and in protecting the "dignity of fetal remains." "The highest court in the land has now affirmed that nothing in the Constitution prohibits states from requiring abortion clinics to provide an element of basic human dignity in disposing of the fetuses they abort. These tiny bodies are, after all, human remains," Indiana's Republican Attorney General, Curtis Hill, said. A similar fetal burial law from Minnesota was upheld by a federal appeals court in 1990 but the Indiana law and another like it in Texas, enacted in 2016, have been struck down by the courts. Several other abortion cases are heading toward the high court, including Indiana's appeal seeking to revive another law that requires women to undergo an ultrasound at least 18 hours before they undergo an abortion. For a Reuters graphic on abortion laws in the United States, click https://tmsnrt.rs/2WZuiVP (Reporting by Lawrence Hurley; Editing by Will Dunham) * Juncker says: 'There will be no renegotiation' * Hunt says pursuing no-deal Brexit would be 'political suicide' * Ireland sees growing risk of no-deal Brexit * May says best for UK to leave EU with a deal * Conservatives suffer worst ever election results (Updates with Juncker, Varadkar comments) By Alistair Smout and Gabriela Baczynska LONDON/BRUSSELS, May 28 (Reuters) - The European Union will not renegotiate the Brexit deal that Prime Minister Theresa May agreed, Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said on Tuesday, as concerns grew that a successor to May could trigger a confrontation with the bloc. Brexit is up in the air after May announced plans to step down, triggering a leadership contest in the ruling Conservative Party that could bring a new prime minister to power who wants a much more decisive break with the EU. One of the candidates, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, said it would be "political suicide" to pursue a no-deal Brexit, a reprimand to frontrunner Boris Johnson who said last week that Britain should leave with or without a deal by the end of October. Hunt, who voted to stay in the EU in the 2016 referendum but now accepts Brexit, said he would try for a new agreement that would take Britain out of the EU customs union while "respecting legitimate concerns" around the Irish border. The EU, though, said there would be no renegotiation. "I will have a short meeting with Theresa May, but I was crystal clear: There will be no renegotiation," Juncker said before a meeting of EU leaders in Brussels. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said he believed the risk of Britain crashing out of the bloc without any divorce agreement was growing. "Well I think there is a growing risk of a no deal. There's a possibility that the new British prime minister may try to repudiate the withdrawal agreement," he told reporters. Any successor to May will have to accept that the Brexit divorce deal she agreed will not be ratified by the current British parliament so they will have to find a solution to the Irish border issue that upset many lawmakers. Story continues Many Brexit supporters opposed her deal because of a "backstop" that requires Britain to adopt some EU rules indefinitely unless a future arrangement is found to keep open the land border between Northern Ireland and Ireland. Under laws now in effect, Britain will automatically leave the EU on Oct. 31 without an agreement unless parliament approves one first, the EU grants an extension, or the government revokes its decision to leave. NO-DEAL BREXIT? Pitching himself in contrast to Johnson and others who insist leaving the EU without a deal must remain on the table, Hunt said any such move would be blocked by lawmakers and trigger a national election. "Trying to deliver no deal through a general election is not a solution; it is political suicide," Hunt wrote in Tuesday's Daily Telegraph. "A different deal is, therefore, the only solution and what I will pursue if I am leader." Trade minister Liam Fox, who is not running for the premiership, said while leaving with a deal was preferable, the leadership candidates were agreed that leaving the EU without a deal was better than not leaving. "If the EU doesn't want to negotiate any changes - which I think would be unfortunate and I think would be quite surprising - then I think that of course does increase the chance of a no-deal exit," Fox said during a trade visit to Egypt. Rivals for the top job were quick to reject Hunt's views. "Political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU and not leaving on the 31st October," Esther McVey, a Brexit hardliner and former minister who is standing for the leadership, said in a tweet. Under the party's rules for picking a new leader, Conservative lawmakers will select a shortlist of candidates and put them to the party's members for a vote. So far 10 candidates have said they are running. The Conservative Party had a disastrous showing in European elections at the weekend, losing most of its support to a new Brexit Party, which topped the poll while calling for a swift no-deal exit from the EU. Other parties that want to halt Brexit altogether also surged in the vote, leaving little space in the middle for Britain's two main traditional parties, the Conservatives and Labour, both of which had campaigned in favor of a compromise. Labour has since edged closer to a position that could make it possible to call off Brexit, saying a public vote - either a new national election or second referendum - is the way to reunite the country. Several of Labour's senior figures have called on its leadership to go further and openly call for a new referendum in which the party would campaign to stay in the EU. (Writing by Guy Faulconbridge Additional reporting by Kylie MacLellan and William James in London and Aidan Lewis in Cairo Editing by Peter Graff and Frances Kerry) * Hu Xijin says China considers rare earth countermeasures * China to prioritize rare earth domestic demand -Xinhua * But willing to meet reasonable foreign demand -Xinhua * Xi's rare earths plant visit seen as threat to U.S. (Updates with details from state media report citing China government official, background) By Meg Shen and Min Zhang HONG KONG/BEIJING, May 28 (Reuters) - Beijing is "seriously considering" restricting exports to the United States of rare earths, 17 chemical elements used in high-tech consumer electronics and military equipment, the editor in chief of China's Global Times said on Tuesday. Rising trade tensions have led to concerns that Beijing will use its dominant position as a supplier of rare earths for leverage in the trade war between the United States and China. A senior official from China's National Development and Reform Commission told the Xinhua news agency on Tuesday that Beijing will give domestic demand for rare earths priority, but will meet reasonable demand from other countries. While the official at China's national planning body did not directly answer whether Beijing would restrict rare earth exports to the United States, Global Times Editor-in-chief Hu Xijin wrote on Twitter: "Based on what I know, China is seriously considering restricting rare earth exports to the U.S. China may also take other countermeasures in the future." Although the tabloid Global Times is not one of China's official media, it is widely read and is published by the ruling Communist Party's People's Party newspaper. President Xi Jinping visited a rare earth company in southern China last week, state media reported, lifting the shares of producers on speculation that this indicated Beijing was considering using the chemicals in the U.S. trade war. China accounted for 80% of rare earth imports between 2014 and 2017 by the United States, which has excluded them from recent tariffs along with some other critical Chinese minerals. Beijing, however, has raised tariffs on imports of U.S. rare earth metal ores from 10% to 25% from June 1, making it less economical to process the material in China. (Additional reporting by Beijing Newsroom; editing by Larry King and Alexander Smith) Measles, mumps and pertussis are all on the rise, fueled in part by the anti-vaccination movement, which has left pockets of vulnerable, unvaccinated people and the waning effectiveness of some vaccines. This year, U.S. measles cases are at a 25-year high surpassing 2014s 667 cases and its only May. But even with the spikes, this years cases dont compare to numbers seen more than half a century ago. Few people remember that hundreds of thousands of people fell ill each year before vaccines were developed and widely used. We collected and charted data from the past five decades. The results are eye-opening. The U.S. recorded 940 measles cases as of May 24 far below the nearly 400,000 cases in 1963, when the vaccine was first introduced. This years spike in cases is particularly significant because measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 meaning the virus is no longer continuously transmitted within the country. So what has revived measles? Foreign travelers can bring back measles infections after visiting countries experiencing an outbreak. They can set off an outbreak among unvaccinated populations, who may have chosen not to get the vaccine for religious or philosophical reasons or because of false beliefs that immunizations are tied to health risks such as autism. In response to surging cases, New York City ordered last month that people in ZIP codes affected by measles outbreaks receive vaccinations or face a $1,000 fine. Unlike the measles, rising mumps cases have largely occurred among highly vaccinated populations like college students. Large outbreaks occurred at schools across the Midwest in 2006 and again in 2016 and 2017. The total number of cases those years were the highest since before doctors began recommending two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine in 1989. But the totals are still far below levels during the late 1960s and early 1970s, when 100,000 or more people were struck with the disease each year. Story continues In these recent outbreaks, many were infected despite receiving both doses of the vaccine, but research has found that their vaccination levels likely limited the spread and severity of the disease. Public health officials say these outbreaks could indicate that three doses may be necessary to protect immunity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not broadly recommend a third dose of the vaccine, but public health officials might recommend a third dose for vulnerable populations such as a university in the midst of an outbreak. The waning efficacy of vaccines may help spread pertussis, too, which has staged the most dramatic and sustained comeback in the U.S. in recent decades. More than 100,000 people fell ill with pertussis each year in the late 1940s, when the vaccine was first popularized. Cases hit a historic low in 1976 but have steadily increased since then. The country saw more than 48,000 cases in 2012, marking the highest total since 1955. The reasons for recent spikes in pertussis is unclear, though better reporting and waning immunity could play a role, according to the CDC. Regardless, vaccines play an important role in containing outbreaks when they occur and protecting the health of infants, who are particularly vulnerable to the disease, the CDC says. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Measles 2019: Three charts show decades of vaccines' successes at risk From a Lincoln Durham concert to a community celebration competition, there's plenty to enjoy in Detroit this week. Read on for a rundown of ideas for how to fill your calendar. 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. Lincoln Durham Concert From the event description: According to his Facebook page, "Lincoln Durham is a Southern-gothic, psycho-blues, revival-punk, one-man band with a heavy amped edge, preaching the gospel of some new kind of depraved music. With driving guttural beats backboning various growling stringed instruments, Lincoln gives birth to a sound that transcends genres with his dark, poetic and raw writing style telling tales that E.A. Poe would have been proud of." When: Tuesday, May 28, 8-11:30 p.m. Where: PJ's Lager House, 1254 Michigan Ave. Admission: $12 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Healthcare vs. Finance Connectathon Conference From the event description: Michigan Health Information Network Shared Services (MiHIN) is calling all financial services and healthcare developers, product managers, big idea men and women and anyone who has a problem to solve in the finance or healthcare space to join us at MotorCity Casino Hotel for the 2019 MiHIN Connectathon Conference. Attendees will spend two days collaborating, building and demonstrating solutions with synthetic data using MiHINs Interoperability Land. When: Thursday, May 30, 8 a.m.- Friday, May 31, 2 p.m. Where: MotorCity Casino Hotel, Grand Ballroom Salon A, 2901 Grand River Ave. Admission: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Celebrating Community Pitch Competition From the event description: We invite you to join us as we select the winners for the Celebrating Culture and Community Grant Program. The Celebrating Culture and Community Grant will award $250,000 in funds this year as part of Fords $2 million community investment over the next four years. Eight projects have been identified and will present to the community and a panel of judges. All are invited to attend and help select the winners to be announced on June 15. When: Thursday, May 30, 5-7 p.m. Where: The Factory at Corktown, 1907 Michigan Ave. Admission: 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. Earnings estimates for Lockheed Martin Corporation LMT have been revised upward in the past 60 days, reflecting analysts' optimism in the stock. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2019 and 2020 earnings moved up 5.39% and 1.48% to $20.53 and $24.72, respectively. Lets focus on the factors that make Lockheed Martin a profitable pick. Earnings & Surprise History In first-quarter 2019, Lockheed Martin delivered earnings of $5.99 per share, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.29 by 39.6%. The companys average four-quarter positive earnings surprise is 17.35%. Zacks Rank & VGM Score Lockheed Martin currently holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) and has an impressive VGM Score of B. Here V stands for Value, G for Growth and M for Momentum, with the score being a weighted combination of all three factors. Back tested results show that stocks with a favorable VGM Score of A or B coupled with a bullish Zacks Rank are the best investment options. Increasing Backlog Lockheed Martin ended the first quarter of 2019 with $133.5 billion in backlog, up 2.3% from $130.5 billion at the end of 2018. Of this, the Aeronautics segment accounted for $52.34 billion, while Rotary and Mission Systems contributed $31.33 billion. Also, $26.59 billion stemmed from Space Systems, and $23.21 billion from the Missiles and Fire Control segment. Going forward too, the company is expected to gain significantly from increasing backlog. Price Movement Shares of Lockheed Martin have gained 6.8% in the past 12 months against the industrys decline of 1.9%. Other Stocks to Consider A few similarly-ranked stocks in the same sector are Wesco Aircraft Holdings WAIR, Northrop Grumman Corporation NOC and Leidos Holdings LDOS. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Wesco Aircrafts long-term growth estimates currently stand at 12%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2019 earnings has increased 3.7% to 84 cents in the past 60 days. Northrop Grumman Corporation delivered average positive earnings surprise of 18.50% in the last four quarters. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2019 earnings has climbed 1.85% to $19.29 in the past 60 days. Leidos Holdings came up with average positive earnings surprise of 6.81% in the last four quarters. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2019 earnings has risen 1.1% to $4.58 in the past 60 days. 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 Lockheed Martin Corporation (LMT) : Free Stock Analysis Report Leidos Holdings, Inc. (LDOS) : Free Stock Analysis Report Wesco Aircraft Holdings, Inc. (WAIR) : Free Stock Analysis Report Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research Its the most wonderful time of the year: the Champions League Final is upon us! Tottenham and Premier League rivals Liverpool will contest the 64th edition of the European Cup Final at the Wanda Metropolitano in Madrid on Saturday June 1st. Tottenham Hotspur will contest their first Champions League Final against five-time winners and 2018 finalists Liverpool. Its the second all-English final, the seventh between two teams from the same domestic league, and the first since 2013 that wont feature a Spanish Team! Heres five things you need to know: 1.) Liverpool are pretty heavy favorites They have better European pedigree, they had a better league season, they have had the better of the historic head-to-head, and they beat Spurs 2-1 in both their league games this season. But Jurgen Klopp has lost both his previous Champions League finals and is notorious for falling at the final stagehes lost his last six finals in all competitions. Naby Keita may not be fit to appear, but Roberto Firmino is said to be making good progress from his groin injury. 2.) Being the underdog will suit Spurs just fine Tottenham didnt even look likely to clear the group stage when they took just a single point frothier first three matches. When they were drawn against Manchester City in the quarterfinals, it looked as if they were done, but not only did they overcome Pep Guardiolas side, they overcame a big deficit in the semifinals (as did Liverpool, of course). Jan Vertonghen and Davinson Sanchez are injury doubts for Spurs, but the big question surrounds Harry Kane, who said I feel ready when asked about his status for Saturday. But, could he upset the flow of a team that made the final without him? 3.) The venue The 67,000-seater Wanda Metropolitano, home of Atletico Madrid, will host the final. Each team has an allocation of 17,000 tickets, but if youre thinking of a last-minute trip, it might be pricey. At the time of publication, the cheapest tickets we could find on a third-party site were just over 9,000! 4.) The money And speaking of money, there was a total of 1.95 billion in prize money for the Champions League this season. Liverpool have earned 107.2 million so far, and Spurs have earned 101.6 million slightly less due to their less impressive group stage performances. The winner will get an extra 4 million. And finally, the most important detail... 5.) When and how to watch! It kicks off on Saturday June 1st at 9pm local time, which is 3pm Eastern. It will be broadcast on TNT and B/R Live, with coverage starting 90 minutes before kick-off, and the Bleacher Report on-air talent will be at the stadium in Madrid. The proximity will surely do nothing for Spurs fan Steve Nashs nerves! There will be a little more North American flavor at the stadium, as Las Vegas rockers Imagine Dragons are performing just before Kick-off. Thats about it, except itll be the first final to use VAR, and a fourth substitute will be allowed if it goes to extra time. For more on the beautiful game - follow @FCYahoo on your favorite social channelsand stay up to date with The Spin on Yahoo Sports. Prejudice based on stereotypes still affect people at work. Photo: Getty Whether we realise it or not, most of us have a phone voice. Some might change their accent intentionally, others may do it subconsciously but plenty of us alter the way we speak when we make a call. Last year, a study by the business telecoms provider 4Com found 44% of people are conscious of how their accents make them appear at work. A further 28% said they change the way they speak to sound more professional. More worryingly, people with regional accents are often discriminated against at work. A study by the law firm Peninsular found 80% of employers admitted to making discriminating decisions based on regional accents. Another study by Professor Lance Workman of the University of South Wales discovered that employers favour some accents over others. Specifically, people who speak the Queens English, or received pronunciation, are more likely to be recruited despite it being spoken by only 3% of the population. Accents are a key part of our identity, a product of our backgrounds, upbringing and heritage and they are something to be proud of. Yet we are quick to judge others depending on the way they sound, and often apply outdated stereotypes. According to research dating back to 1984, it takes us less than 30 seconds to profile someone depending on how their voice sounds, and make snap decisions on their socio-economic class, background and ethnic origin. Regional accents in particular, such as Scouse, Geordie and Yorkshire accents, are predominantly subject to stereotyping and prejudice. According to recent research by Texas State University, the construction of social identity and high ethnocentric values are key reasons why accent bias exists. We sound the way we do for a whole range of reasons cultural, emotional, social and we tend to judge other people's accents on the same basis. I passionately love Lancashire accents, for example, because it sounds like home to me, speech expert Professor Sophie Scott of the UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience said in a talk in 2017. Story continues But when our judgements about people's attractiveness or intelligence or capability are based on their accent, then this cultural baggage we all have has the potential to become discriminatory. The words people are using are a far better test of ability or competence than the way they are saying them. Were more likely to be biased against speakers who have different accents to our own, or against accents to which we unconsciously attribute undesirable qualities. The Brummie accent, for example, is often maligned and numerous surveys have declared it the least attractive accent in the UK. This is something researchers attribute to the flat vowels associated with it a well-known Birmingham joke involves the terms cup of tea and kipper tie being mixed up. In 2013, a poll by ITV and ComRes asked 4,000 Britons to rate accents on friendliness, intelligence and trustworthiness. Among the results, it was said that people from Devon were considered the most friendly and trustworthy, while the Liverpudlian accents were deemed the least trustworthy. The survey also found that more than a quarter of Britons 28% felt they had been discriminated against because of their regional accent. There is no legislation to protect someone from accent discrimination. However, an employee may bring a claim for discrimination on the grounds of race or nationality if they are discriminated against for having a foreign accent. Its important for employers to ensure those with accents arent singled out in any way and to make sure the recruitment process does not discriminate, for example, by training interviewers to recognise and avoid subconscious bias. Its also crucial to consider the benefits of having a range of different voices in the workplace. Multiple studies have shown having a diverse workforce which includes people from all walks of life isnt just morally right, it benefits businesses too - boosting innovation, decision-making, performance and ultimately, revenue. Buenos Aires (AFP) - Lawmakers in Argentina launched a fresh bid to legalize abortion on Tuesday, presenting a new bill to Congress and resuming a battle that has divided the homeland of Pope Francis ahead of October's general election. A vast crowd -- mostly young women dressed in green, the color that has come to symbolize their movement -- gathered outside the Congress building in central Buenos Aires since early evening to support the bill. Last year, a bill to decriminalize abortion up to the 14th week of pregnancy was narrowly adopted by the Chamber of Deputies but defeated in the Senate, under strong pressure from the still-powerful Catholic Church. The new bill is being put forward by 15 lawmakers from a range of parties, including President Mauricio Macri's ruling center-right Cambiemos coalition and left-wing opposition parties. The protesters plan to hold a major demonstration into the night to mark the revival of their campaign, hoping for a better ending this year. Similar protests were planned for cities and towns across Argentina. "Everyone has to be able to decide responsibly. Abortion is not easy, but there has to be legislation that allows them to do it with dignity," tourist guide Noelia Patruno, 40, told AFP. In the corner of the square, a smaller group of anti-abortion activists struggled to make themselves heard. "A society that proposes death is not a fair one. Life begins at conception," said Nelida Rodriguez, a 50-year-old store owner wearing a blue scarf to signify the anti-abortion movement. "Why come back with a bill when it was rejected last year?" Victoria Tesoriero, leader of the Campaign for the Right to Legal, Safe and Free Abortion, said activists would keep the pressure on lawmakers ahead of the election, in which a third of Senate seats and half of those in the lower house will be contested. "Presenting the new bill is not only a return to the offensive for abortion rights, but to put pressure on the party lists to make sure that every candidate clearly states their preference," said Tesoriero. Story continues The bill is unlikely to return to the Senate before the end of this year, given the elections, observers say. In raucous scenes outside Congress last August, abortion rights campaigners wept and hugged, while fireworks and shouts of joy erupted among anti-abortion activists as the Senate's defeat of the measure was announced. "This time, the issue is already well embedded in society," said Tesoriero. "It will be a more natural question for candidates, who will have to say what position they will take to Congress." - Reluctance to apply law - In Argentina, abortion is only allowed in case of rape, a threat to the mother's life or if the fetus is deemed non-viable. But many doctors and some provincial governments are reluctant to apply the law, recently forcing an 11-year-old rape victim to continue her pregnancy, debating the issue until the legal window for an abortion had passed. Authorities who refused to allow the family's demand for an abortion eventually allowed a cesarean section to be carried out at 23 weeks. The pope, a former archbishop of Buenos Aires, last year compared having an abortion to hiring a "contract killer." "Getting rid of a human being is like resorting to a contract killer to solve a problem," Francis said in an address to worshippers at the Vatican in October. Various charities estimate that 500,000 illegal, secret abortions are carried out every year in Argentina, resulting in the deaths of about 100 women. Amnesty International said the bill was a new opportunity to guarantee women's rights in a country where abortions continued to be carried out in "deplorable conditions." The campaign has gained international visibility with the airing of a documentary by Argentine director Juan Solanas at the Cannes Film Festival last week, where Spanish director Pedro Almodovar and actress Penelope Cruz showed their support by wearing green scarves. Following its legalization in once-conservative Ireland last year, the renewed push in Argentina comes amid efforts by some Republican-led states in the United States to row back on abortion, legal nationwide since 1973. Earlier this month, the US state of Alabama signed the most restrictive abortion law in the country, providing for a near-total prohibition, even in cases of rape and incest. The states of Kentucky, Mississippi and Missouri have also tightened their abortion laws. The state bans have so far either been blocked by a judge or are headed for the courts. Tirana (AFP) - Molotov cocktails in the streets and a mass resignation in parliament -- Albania's volatile political scene is exploding just as its European future is on the table, threatening Tirana's dreams of joining the bloc. EU member states are to decide in the coming weeks whether to open membership talks with the fragile Balkan state that sits above Greece on the Adriatic. But a political crisis is not helping cast Albania as a stable neighbour or healthy addition to a bloc already reeling from populist movements and assorted turmoil. In February, opposition politicians from the right to the centre-left walked out of parliament in a protest demanding the resignation of Socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama, who has led the country since 2013. They want a transitional government and early elections, and refuse to negotiate with Rama who they accuse of crime and corruption links. The fight has spilled onto the streets, with weekly protests shrouding Tirana in tear gas and smoke as protesters tussle with police and try to break into government buildings, lobbing bricks, firecrackers and petrol bombs. The opposition, whose next protest is called for Sunday, has also vowed to boycott local elections at the end of June. During a recent rally, the leader of the main right-wing opposition party, Lulzim Basha, urged supporters "to join the insurrection to overthrow Rama", chanting: "Freedom or death! Democracy or death! I call on you to resist." The drama has alarmed Western diplomats, who have issued regular warnings to opposition leaders to curb the violence if they want to see progress with the EU. "Violent demonstrations are damaging Albania's democratic reform efforts and the country's prospects for moving forward on the EU path," the US embassy said in a statement. Paris also condemned "violence that undermines democratic reform efforts and Albania's image". - 'Fed up with the circus' - Story continues Since the fall of communism in 1991, Albania's efforts at democracy have been laced with bitter verbal attacks, accusations of corruption and extreme partisanship that has seen the country lurch from crisis to crisis. "Albania wants to open negotiations with the EU but its political class is unable to start by opening negotiations and dialogue among themselves," commented Lutfi Dervishi, an independent political analyst. Last year, the opposition party boycotted parliament for six months until December. When they did return -- for a brief period before their next boycott -- one of the party's MPs hurled eggs at Rama as he addressed the assembly. Several months later, another opposition politician splattered the premier with ink before being removed by security guards. After that most of the opposition resigned en masse. The latest turbulence on the streets is erupting at an especially sensitive moment for Rama, who has staked political capital on pushing Albania closer to its EU dreams. Speaking about the opposition, he said, "they cannot do anything against the government but they can hurt, and even seriously, Albania in its path." "Albania already deserved last year" to have its accession process opened, the premier told AFP in April, citing progress on judicial reform and tackling organised crime. But despite some gains, the EU ambassador in Tirana, Luigi Soreca, said he expects the "current political situation" to be one of the elements taken into account by the member states. "The culture of compromise is not necessarily typical of Albania," the diplomat added wryly. "But all parties should now unite behind the objective of EU integration," he said. The constant drama also helps fuel disillusionment among citizens, many of whom have joined a huge emigration exodus. Vera Bala, 49, mother of two children, says many Albanians are tired of the "madness". It is "the same actors who replay the same scenes...share the same interests, blame each other but hold each other together." "We are fed up with this circus," she added. Algiers (AFP) - Algeria's armed forces chief on Tuesday called for "mutual concessions" between the country's interim leaders and protesters demanding broader changes nearly two months after long-serving president Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned. General Ahmed Gaid Salah said the priority was to "move towards a productive dialogue that will help our country" out of the crisis and to ensure elections are held as soon as possible. Gaid Salah, who has emerged as a de facto strongman since Bouteflika quit on April 2 in the face of massive protests, has repeatedly called for a constitutional solution through a July 4 presidential election. But only two little-known figures submitted their candidacies on time for the disputed poll, raising doubts about the interim rulers' plans to stage it. The election is strongly opposed by protesters who reject any vote held under authorities they say are tarnished by corruption from the rule of Bouteflika. They want regime figures including Gaid Salah and interim president Abdelkader Bensalah to step down ahead of any poll, and demand new independent institutions to oversee voting. "Establishing dialogue means the willingness of all to listen to each other... and a sincere desire for the need to find appropriate solutions without delay," Gaid Salah said, quoted by the defence ministry. The general called for constructive dialogue in which "mutual concessions" can be agreed and "differences are overcome, or at least gaps between contradictory points of view are reduced". Gaid Salah warned against a drawn-out transition and referred to the country's 1990s civil war as he urged Algerians to "learn from previous experiences and past events". Algeria has been rocked by months of protests since the ailing Bouteflika announced in February that he would run for a fifth term. He quit office but protesters have kept up mass demonstrations calling for an overhaul of the "system" and departure of key Bouteflika-era figures. Under the constitution, Bensalah has 90 days to organise a presidential election from the date of his appointment on April 9. Algiers (AFP) - Thousands of Algerian students and teachers took to the streets of the capital Tuesday chanting slogans against the armed forces chief currently dominating the country and plans for an election in July. Protesters are keeping up the pressure on the ruling elite with demands for more sweeping changes in the North African state nearly two months after veteran president Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned. Military chief Ahmed Gaid Salah has emerged as a de facto strongman after easing his former boss from power but demonstrators insist he and other Bouteflika-era stalwarts must go before a new presidential poll can be held. "No elections, mafia gangs," shouted the crowds as they marched peacefully through Algiers in the face of heavy police deployment. The latest protests came as Gaid Salah called for "mutual concessions" between the country's interim leaders and those taking to the streets. Gaid Salah has repeatedly called for a constitutional solution through a July 4 presidential election. But only two little-known figures submitted their candidacies on time for the disputed poll, raising doubts about plans to stage it. Algeria has been rocked by months of protests since the ailing Bouteflika announced in February that he would run for a fifth term. He quit office but protesters have kept up mass demonstrations calling for an overhaul of the "system" and departure of key Bouteflika-era figures. Under the constitution, interim president Abdelkader Bensalah has 90 days to organise a presidential election from the date of his appointment on April 9. Representative Justin Amash (R., Mich.) lashed out against Representative Kevin McCarthy (R., Calif.) during a Tuesday town hall, arguing that the House minority leaders intolerance for dissent within his caucus on the question of Trumps impeachment betrayed a lack of character. Speaking to a packed auditorium in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Amash referred to McCarthy as a so-called leader who resorted to personal attacks when responding to Amashs description of Trumps conduct as impeachable because he could not refute the underlying arguments. I read the Mueller report. Im sure he didnt read it. He resorted to ad hominem attacks; thats the kind of leadership we now have in Congress, Amash said to applause. In response to Amashs lengthy tweet thread outlining why the behavior ascribed to President Trump in the Mueller report betrayed the public trust, McCarthy argued that the three-term congressman was simply using the controversy surrounding the report to raise his own profile. What he wants is attention in this process. Hes not a criminal attorney. Hes never met Mueller. Hes never met Barr. And now hes coming forward with this? McCarthy said during a Fox News interview. He wants a Sunday show to put his name forward with a question. Amash went on to suggest that McCarthys response to his criticism of the president was indicative of the problematic top-down nature of modern congressional politics, in which leadership sets the agenda and suppresses internal dissent by threatening to pull institutional support from rank-and-file members who stray from the party line. The 39-year-old libertarian lawmaker also continued to defend his assertion that Trumps attempts to obstruct Muellers investigation are impeachable regardless of whether the underlying crime of criminal coordination with the Kremlin can be established. Clearly, things that violate the public trust are impeachable, Amash said. Story continues We have a job to do, and I think we owe it to the American people to represent them to ensure that the people we have in office are doing the right thing, are of good character, arent violating the public trust, he added. During the town hall, Amash again declined to rule out a possible 2020 presidential run on the Libertarian party ticket. More from National Review Amazons AMZN strong efforts toward strengthening cloud service offerings bode well for its customer-oriented focus. Moreover, the company is firing on all cylinders to expand presence in the booming cloud computing space backed by robust product and services portfolio of Amazon Web Services (AWS). This is evident from its move of making AWS Ground Station generally available to customers. This initiative was launched in the later part of 2018. Notably, the new service offers low-latency and access to other AWS services such as Amazon EC2, Amazon Elastic Block Store (EBS), Amazon S3 and Amazon Elastic File System (EFS), to name a few, with the help of its antennas which are located at close proximity to AWS Regions. This in turn aid customers in efficiently controlling satellites from AWS, download, store and process data from satellites into AWS Global Infrastructure Regions. AWS Ground Station enables customers to control satellites and downlink data by leveraging the power of Amazon EC2. Further, it allows storage and sharing of data in Amazon EBS, Amazon EFS and Amazon S3. Additionally, users will be able to analyze the downloaded satellite data and draw insights from it by utilizing AWS analytics and machine learning services. We believe the latest move of Amazon is likely to enhance offerings in satellite data space. Amazon Poised to Grow We note that AWS Ground Stations robust features, functions, cost effectiveness and synchronization with other services remain key catalysts. These features will lead to strong adoption of AWS new service, which in turn will benefit its performance in the cloud market further. This is expected to drive the top line of Amazon by accelerating revenues of AWS which is one of its high-margin generating businesses. In the first-quarter 2019, AWS revenues accounted for 13% of total sales and increased 41.4% year over year. Amazons strengthening cloud computing footprint and strong retail position provides steady source of revenues and profits. Further, the companys strong cash flow generation ability is expected to help it in expanding reach in the satellite data space. Coming to the price performance, shares of Amazon have returned 13% over a year against the industrys decline of 9.9%. Story continues Growing Focus on Satellite & Space AWS has been eyeing the satellite and space area for quite some time now. It has extended its tie up with Lockheed Martin LMT to expand presence in satellite data. The deal enables the company to introduce a new antenna service on its platform by combining AWS Ground Station service with Lockheed Martins Verge antenna network. This is in sync with AWS intention to utilize its 12 antennas in direct transmission of data from satellites to its data centers. Apart from this, AWS won a contract from Iridium Communications IRDM to develop a satellite-based network called CloudConnect for IoT applications. Notably, this deal has provided AWS with an opportunity to develop satellite-based cloud applications. Additionally, Amazon is in talks with the president of Chile to house and mine astrodata from Chiles giant telescopes. Moreover, Amazon hosts cloud platform for the Hubble Telescopes data and the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research in Australia. Notably, these endeavors are likely to strengthen the AWS services portfolio which in turn will aid its dominant position in the cloud market. Amazon.com, Inc. Revenue (TTM) Amazon.com, Inc. Revenue (TTM) Amazon.com, Inc. revenue-ttm | Amazon.com, Inc. Quote Zacks Rank & Stocks to Consider Currently, Amazon carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). A better-ranked stock in the broader technology sector that can be considered is PayPal Holdings, Inc. PYPL which carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Long-term earnings growth rate for PayPal is pegged at 17.91%. 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 Amazon.com, Inc. (AMZN) : Free Stock Analysis Report PayPal Holdings, Inc. (PYPL) : Free Stock Analysis Report Lockheed Martin Corporation (LMT) : Free Stock Analysis Report Iridium Communications Inc (IRDM) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Amnesty International has called for an investigation into the killing of three activists during a deadly clash between Pakistani troops and protesters in a restive tribal region near the Afghan border. The activists were part of a demonstration organised on Sunday by the Pashtun Protection Movement (PTM), which has rattled the military since it burst onto the scene early last year with a call to end alleged abuses by security forces against ethnic Pashtuns. Two members of parliament were leading the protest when a confrontation broke out at a security checkpoint at Boya, in the North Waziristan region. "The Pakistan government must immediately order an independent and effective investigation," said Rabia Mehmood, South Asia Researcher at Amnesty, in a statement on Monday. "If the reports are correct that the army killed protestors by unlawfully using live ammunition, this would be a very serious violation of international law." What exactly led to the confrontation remains murky, with the military saying the activists assaulted the checkpoint, while PTM leader Mohsin Dawar -- one of the MPs at the protest -- has alleged security forces fired directly into their group after they passed the post. The incident follows months of rising tensions between the two sides, with the military publicly and repeatedly warning PTM leaders to end their criticism of the country's armed forces -- largely seen as a red line in Pakistan. The PTM has unleashed festering anger over abuses allegedly committed against Pashtuns, including enforced disappearances and targeted killings. Pashtuns account for roughly 15 percent of Pakistan's population, with a majority based in the northwest and a significant presence in the southern port city of Karachi. Sunday's incident occurred in North Waziristan, where the movement is believed to draw much of its support. The area was once plagued by militancy, and Washington pressured Pakistan for years to act against Islamist groups based there. The army has carried out multiple operations in North Waziristan and other tribal regions, and security -- both there and across Pakistan -- has dramatically improved in recent years. However, the PTM claims the operations came at a heavy price because of the alleged abuses. By Marc Frank HAVANA, May 28 (Reuters) - The Trump administration's decision to allow lawsuits against foreign entities making use of nationalized Cuban property may affect U.S. food sales to the Communist-run country, according to U.S. suppliers and business sources in Cuba. U.S. farmers and agribusiness's have sold nearly $6 billion in poultry, soy, corn and other products to Cuba since 2001 under an exception to the trade embargo that allows the sales for cash, helping to alleviate shortages on the Caribbean island. However, Washington this month allowed a long dormant section of the 1996 Helms-Burton Act to take effect as it ratchets up the pressure on Venezuela and Cuba. Title III of the Cuba sanctions law, waived by previous presidents, states that anyone whose property was nationalized after the 1959 Cuban Revolution, even if they were not U.S. citizens at the time, can sue any individual or company profiting from their former holdings. Under the current system of imports to Cuba, a U.S. exporter contracts food sales with Alimport, the state-run food importer, which then issues a letter of credit from a third-country bank. When the U.S. company receives the Cuban payment through the bank, it releases the food to Alimport. A western banker, who like other businessmen and diplomats interviewed for this story requested anonymity, said that lawyers for financial institutions were increasingly wary of approving transactions in Cuba, even if their clients were not contravening sanctions. "The increasing challenges of obtaining letters of credit to export food to Cuba is a strong indicator that Congress needs to act to protect agriculture trade from title III," Paul Johnson, chair of the United States Agriculture Coalition for Cuba, told Reuters. U.S. President Donald Trump's efforts to pressure Cuba into dropping its support for Venezuela's leftist leader, Nicolas Maduro, have added to the island's existing economic woes and a decline in U.S. food imports could worsen current shortages. Story continues Alimport, without ordering new shipments as it usually does, recently told some U.S. exporters of food to Cuba that outstanding contracts should be fulfilled by May 27. Alimport provided no explanation. Cuban authorities did not respond to a request for comment by Alimport on this story. WHO OWNED THIS LAND A European diplomat said that some banks now wanted to see property deeds before agreeing to fund projects with Cuba following the tightening of Title III. The National Bank of Canada facilitates much of the trade in U.S. food, according to U.S. exporters, because there is no banking between the United States and Cuba as a result of the trade embargo. The bank is concerned that it could be sued if ships unload at ports sitting on nationalized property, according to two western business sources with knowledge of the islands financial services. Carnival Corp is already being sued for docking at ports in Havana and eastern Santiago. "I hear the National Bank of Canada now wants to make sure that when U.S. food is delivered, the port area is not nationalized property and that may be a problem for the Cubans," said one of the businessmen. Jean-Francois Cadieux, a spokesman from the National Bank of Canada, said in an e-mail that concerns it would no longer provide letters of credit were inaccurate. When asked if National Bank of Canada was taking a closer look at the ports, Cadieux would only say: "robust processes apply to all of our activities." That may prove difficult, however. According to various western diplomats, lawyers and businessmen, the Cuban government refuses to provide land deeds dating back to before the expropriation of most private property in the 1960s. The government insists these deeds are moot as nationalizations and confiscations that took place after the 1959 Revolution were carried out according to international and Cuban law. The government says compensation was offered to some Cubans and paid to all other countries' nationals except those of the United States, which instead of negotiating embargoed the island and tried to overthrow its government. (Reporting by Marc Frank; Editing by Steve Orlofsky) MURFREESBORO, Tenn. Jeff Patton lost $3,300. Rochelle Therrien lost $400. Vessie Moore lost a whopping $14,000. They're a few of the people whose finances were destroyed by visiting Richard "Nate" Schott, the former dentist who pleaded guilty to swindling nearly $1 million from insurance companies. Schott's been ordered to forfeit $932,000 that he stole from insurance companies, but individual victims aren't entitled to restitution. U.S. attorneys prosecuting Schott represent only the insurance companies, not individual victims who paid out of pocket. "I don't think it's fair that an individual who made (money) fraudulently can steal from people who pay out of pocket," Therrien said after learning prosecutors were not representing the victims. Left with no teeth, she feels 'less than human' After visiting Schott's practice, Dental Excellence, Moore didn't just leave broke she left with no teeth. Problems started immediately after the popular Murfreesboro dentist incorrectly installed her teeth implants in October 2016. They weren't placed correctly: Teeth fixed to the implant were crooked and often popped out. Moore went to Schott's practice more than 20 times for issues, she estimates. Employees eventually refused to see her and said she'd have to get used to the implants the way they were. Then she had what felt like mini strokes. But after a trip to the emergency room and a hefty price tag she learned the implants were actually tangled in her nerves. A different dentist removed the implants, but she's now buried in medical debt and can't afford dentures. "It makes me feel like I'm less than human," Moore said. "I can't even get affordable dentures. ... I can't live. I can't eat. I can't do nothing." Moore filed a lawsuit in Rutherford County Circuit Court, but the case was thrown out by Judge Darrell Scarlett since Moore filed paperwork incorrectly. She plans to refile with the help of an attorney and hopes to be compensated for the burdens placed on her by Schott's work. Story continues Pushing pricey crowns and credit cards Patton went to Schott eight years ago. After an examination, Schott told Patton he needed crowns and it would cost over $3,000. Schott paid $1,700 out of pocket and signed up for a credit card after being pressured by one of Schott's staff members. Patton planned to pay it off within a year, as not to accrue any interest. But after five months of payments, he was shocked to learn that it said he owed over $3,000, more than double what he expected. Patton called Schott's office nearly six times and was told the credit card company was to blame. But the credit card company blamed Schott. The two businesses were in a stalemate, and Patton still owed thousands. He was able to get the charges dismissed with the help of a local attorney, but others weren't so lucky. "I hate it for him," Patton said of Schott's downfall. "But he crushed people and represented himself as Mr. Clean." Dr. Richard N. Schott, owner of Murfreesboro Dental Excellence,and former employee and Kendra L. Glenn are facing federal healthcare fraud charges for operating a scheme to defraud healthcare benefit programs, prosecutors announced Monday. Therrien had issues with her teeth, so she went to Schott expecting a root canal. Employees pushed her to get crowns, she said. She refused. Employees made the crowns anyway without permission and charged her credit card for the costs. She never got her money back, and eventually paid it off. "I just want him to pay for what he's done," Therrien said. U.S. attorney's office spokesman David W. Boling said in an email that individuals who believe they're a victim of Schott's illegal conduct should file a report with a local law enforcement agency. "They may also want to explore any civil remedies which may be available," Boling said. Follow Brinley Hineman of The (Murfreesboro, Tenn.) Daily News Journal on Twitter: @brinleyhineman This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: No teeth left and drowning in debt: Victims of a Tennessee dentist speak out Amanda Eller, the yoga teacher who survived 17 days lost in a Hawaiian forest, thanked her rescuers Monday in an emotional apperance at a community event. Eller made a last-minute address to praise the hundreds of neighbors who aided her rescue after she reportedly hiked into the woods on May 8 and found herself disoriented, Hawaii's KHON-TV reported. "I'm just the girl that got lost in the woods," said Eller, wearing a lei around her neck. "You guys like showed up hard. This is like true aloha." She continued, thanking the community for "showing up with so much frickin' heart and so much passion." Amanda Eller found alive: Hiker rescued after being lost 2 weeks in Maui, Hawaii forest Want news from USA TODAY on WhatsApp? Click this link on your mobile device to get started The 35-year-old was airlifted to safety Friday after a helicopter pilot spotted her close to a creek bed. Her SUV had been found at Maui's Makawao Forest Reserve with her wallet and phone inside. Eller, who reportedly survived on river water and wild fruit, suffered a leg fracture, severe sunburns and abrasions, her family said. On Tuesday, a friend who coordinated the search effort for Eller updated NBC's "Today" on her injuries. "She's going through a very grueling process on her legs, where they need to remove the tops of the wounds and it's very painful, much like a burn victim," Sarah Haynes said, describing Eller as now in a wheelchair after initially walking out of the hospital. Javier Cantellops, a former Army Ranger who helped rescue Eller, told "Today" that "It was incredible to see her" at Monday's event. Now Eller's rescuers aim to find another Maui hiker reported missing, according to Hawaii's KITV-TV, which reported that Noah Kekai Mina, a 35-year-old who hikes often in Iao Valley, disappeared on May 20. 'I chose life': Hiker Amanda Eller survived on wild fruit, water and grit for 17 days in the Hawaiian forest Story continues "Circumstances are different, but we're moving on to the next mission because he's a member of our community," Cantellops said Saturday, according to KITV-TV. On Monday, Eller acknowledged her recovery while praising the community that saved her. "You guys are the heroes,'' Eller said, according to NBC. "I am not the hero, I am just the girl sitting here healing my ankles." Follow Josh Hafner on Twitter: @joshhafner This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'You guys are the heroes': Missing hiker Amanda Eller thanks rescuers in emotional appearance It would be a hard sell to get "Shark Tank" investor Kevin O'Leary to put his money into auto stocks. O'Leary, chairman of O'Shares ETFs, told CNBC's "Squawk Box" Tuesday he "will not touch any of these companies." O'Leary's comments came after Fiat Chrysler(FCA-IT) and Renault(RNO-FR) submitted a proposal to merge the companies. Shares in Fiat Chrysler and Renault surged on the news, which broke over the long holiday weekend. "This is a classic misery loves company ... get together, be miserable," he said of the deal. O'Leary predicted that people won't care in a decade which car transports them, especially if they don't own it. It's a utility, he said, a "box with four wheels." "This sector is a miserable place to be an investor," added O'Leary, known on "Shark Tank" as "Mr. Wonderful." Fiat Chrysler did not immediately respond to a request for comment on O'Leary's remarks. The merger, which still requires approval by both of the automakers' boards, would make the joint company the world's third largest automaker and would push it to sell an estimated 8.7 million vehicles a year. But O'Leary remained skeptical. "Maybe you can keep a story going on a Ferrari or a BMW. But the rest is a cattle car business." Disclosure: CNBC owns the exclusive off-network cable rights to ABC's "Shark Tank." Ariel Winter has warned fans of the side effects that come hand-in-hand with antidepressants [Photo: Getty] Actress Ariel Winter has warned fans about the unexpected weight loss she experienced after changing her antidepressants medication. On Monday, a fan commented on the 21-year-olds latest Instagram selfie asking for advice on the topic. Hi, so I read online that you changed meds and you were able to lose the weight you gained," the social media user wrote [sic]. "May I ask what are the meds you are on now that have helped? Any info would be helpful so I can talk to my doctor." The Modern Family star promptly replied, explaining that everyone experiences different side effects from antidepressants. READ MORE: How to spot if your child is suffering from a mental health condition My psychiatrist and therapist both advised me that it could be potentially be harmful to anyone who thinks that since it worked for me it will automatically work for them, she wrote. Just because it changed the weight side effect for me doesn't mean it will for everyone. Winter first opened up about her weight loss earlier this month after a number of her Instagram followers body shamed the actress. In her defence, Winter addressed the speculation on Instagram Stories. For years I had been on anti-depressants that caused me to gain weight that I couldn't lose no matter what I did," she wrote. It was always frustrating for me because I wanted to be able to get fit and feel like the work I was doing was paying off, but it never felt that way. I had accepted it and moved on. I stayed on those medications for so long because the process is really long and difficult. I wasn't ready to go through it again so I just accepted feeling eh instead of trying to find something to actually feel better. Now, the actress has finally found a medication which works for her. The change in medication instantly made me drop all of the weight I couldn't lose before by just giving me back a metabolism, she explained. That was very unexpected. Story continues READ MORE: Surprising signs youre suffering from a mental health condition According to the NHS, there are a number of side effects to taking antidepressants with symptoms including headaches, low sex drive, reduced appetite and bowel problems. These cautions vary according to the individual and its crucial to seek medical help from your local GP if concerned. Other alternative forms of treatment for anxiety and/or depression include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) and self-help groups. For further information, please visit the NHS website. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo Style UK: Myanmar police issued an arrest warrant Tuesday evening for an ultra-nationalist monk known as the "Buddhist Bin Laden" for his vitriol against Islam and particularly the Rohingya Muslim community. Wirathu has long been the face of the country's Buddhist nationalist movement, notorious for espousing hate against the Rohingya minority. A warrant was "filed and applied directly at western district court against him (Wirathu) under article 124(a)," police spokesman Myo Thu Soe told AFP late on Tuesday. He said he was unable to give specific details about the reasons behind the warrant. The law prohibits anyone who "attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government" and carries a maximum jail sentence of three years. Wirathu's monastery is in Mandalay but his whereabouts Tuesday or when he might be detained were unknown. In 2013 the hardliner appeared on the cover of "Time" magazine as "The Face of Buddhist Terror". He has called for boycotts of Muslim-owned businesses and restrictions of marriages between Buddhists and Muslims. A council of senior monks stopped him temporarily from speaking in public but the firebrand abbot has spoken at a string of pro-military rallies since the ban ended in March last year. Facebook kicked him off the platform in January 2018 after a string of incendiary posts targeting the Rohingya. Rights groups say these helped whip up animosity towards the community, laying the foundations for a military crackdown in 2017 that forced about 740,000 to flee over the border to Bangladesh. Like many in Myanmar, Wirathu pejoratively refers to the minority as "Bengali", implying the group are illegal immigrants. Refugees' testimonies of mass killings, rapes and arson spurred UN investigators to call for the prosecution of top generals for "genocide" and the International Criminal Court (ICC) is conducting a preliminary probe. Story continues "The day when the ICC comes here... is the day that Wirathu holds a gun," he said in a speech to a rally of hardline nationalists in October last year. A firebrand Buddhist monk in Sri Lanka, Galagodaatte Gnanasara, has maintained close ties with Wirathu. Gnanasara was freed from prison in Sri Lanka last week following a presidential pardon. From a food truck peddling Hawaiian-Korean fusion dishes in Seattle to an underground Japanese speakeasy in D.C. to a Korean barbecue restaurant that focuses on home cooking in New York City, one ingredient is surprisingly constant: Spam. In recent years, a growing number of Asian American and Pacific Islander chefs are working against anti-Spam stigma to bring the meat to the American fine-dining scene. But how did the pink block of meat, a product of American industrialization, make its way into these Asian cuisines in the first place? Spam goes to war Hormel Foods Corporation, a U.S.-based food conglomerate, produced the first can of Spam a mix of pork, salt, water, sugar and sodium nitrite in 1937 in Minnesota. (Modified potato starch was added in 2001 to minimize the thick layer of gelatin.) But the canned meat really rose to international prominence during World War II. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the American military was deployed to the Pacific, and troops made their way to places like Guam, Japan, the Philippines and South Korea. Wherever American troops went, Spam followed, says Robert Ku, a professor of Asian American Studies at the State University of New York at Binghamton and the author of Dubious Gastronomy: The Cultural Politics of Eating Asian in the USA. Though brand-name Spam was not always part of official G.I. rations, it had a number of wartime and post-war uses, and stuck around in places that experienced prolonged American military presence after the war ended. But the food brought with it a complicated set of meanings. With mass destruction having created food shortages and the U.S. participating in rebuilding the region, Spam became a symbol of American generosity in helping feed the people, Ku says. At the same time, however, it was a reminder of immense suffering. In the Philippines, people were fleeing from Japanese invasion, and resisting its occupation from 1941 to 1945, when they were first introduced to Spam. On some Pacific Islands, Spam became a necessity for survival for many local residents due to food rationing and restrictions during the war. And for many Japanese Americans, their love for Spam began with one of the most painful memories, Ku writes in his book: The U.S. government sent canned meat to the incarceration camps where people of Japanese descent were forced to relocate and later detained from 1942 to 1945. Story continues During this period, Spam began to make its way into local dishes. Barbara Funamura, a Japanese-American woman from Hawaii, is credited with having invented Spam musubi, a slice of grilled Spam on top of a block of rice, wrapped together with nori. A similar narrative repeated itself on the Korean peninsula during the Korean War: People would rummage through the leftovers of the American military bases and create a dish using items they found. The dish, known as budae jjigae or army stew, combines traditional Korean ingredients, such as kimchi and rice cakes, with American novelty, like Spam and American cheese. Its tinged with a certain amount of sadness, says Sohui Kim, the owner and chef of Insa, a Korean barbecue restaurant in Brooklyn, N.Y. But the resiliency of Korean people theyve taken something that was so foreign and then they were able to assimilate it and sort of make it make sense in their cuisine. Get your history fix in one place: sign up for the weekly TIME History newsletter The Spam Stigma The Asian regions that were introduced to Spam werent the only places where the meat showed up in the post-war years. In Britain, during the economic hardship that followed WWII, Spam was an affordable alternative to fresh meat. But, Ku says, as its popularity there waned, the British contributed to many stereotypes people now have about Spam notably, thanks to the Monty Python sketch that famously highlights the ubiquity of the meat. In the Asia-Pacific region, however, Ku says that locals never had an opportunity to make fun of Spam. It may speak to the relative economic differences between Britain and the Pacific during the post-war time, he says. The British were able to recover somewhat economically, whereas the Asian-Pacific places were slower to. The stigma kept Andrew Chiou, a Taiwanese American chef, from using the ingredient early in his culinary career. For Chiou, Spam was a convenience food. His family would take it straight out of a can, fry it like deli meat and then throw it in his backpack when he would go hiking or camping. Chious Washington, D.C., restaurant Momo Yakitori now uses Spam, but he says thats not because of any fond childhood memories. Rather, he started doing more research about Spam after guests asked repeatedly if he could make a dish with it. It was delicious, he recalls experimenting with the ingredient. It wasnt the Spam I remember eating. Now, he grills Spam, wrapping it in rice and nori, along with soft scrambled eggs, kewpie mayonnaise and grilled cabbage in musubi. He also sautes it and puts chopped Spam in potato salad, a play on a dish his mother used to make. Sohui Kim of Insa also says she had a rocky relationship with the ingredient and avoided it throughout her youth. She didnt enjoy the flavor and saw the food as something that belonged to hard times. She recalls that she would always poke the Spam strips out of kimbap, a Korean rice roll her mom made. But as Kim grew older, she started embracing more different types of food and her palate turned around. Its all about your identity, your national identity, your personal identity, your family identity, and it sort of fuses, she says. And somehow Spam is there. She makes her own version of Spam in-house and guests can add it into dishes like army stew, kimchi fried rice and bibimbap (vegetables over rice). Ku says the stigma about Spam as a poor mans meal still exists in the United States, and the only time you will see Spam in an American restaurant is if the restaurant is Filipino or Korean or something of that ilk. However, he says that Asian American chefs are contributing to elevating Spam into an interesting culinary ingredient. There is something quirky yet meaningful to these Asian Americans, who by consuming Spam are really embracing their histories and experience and the legacy as Asian Americans. Kamala Saxton is a co-founder of Marination, which features Hawaiian-Korean fusion food. She started with a food truck in 2009 and has since expanded the business to six restaurants. She recalls not being able to find Spam on any menus in Seattles restaurants when she first started in the industry. Now Spam musubi sells out every day at her restaurant. People are making their own homemade Spam, she says. It has come a long way in the last ten years. The Spam brand is special to those cultures and generations have grown up eating creative dishes like Spam musubi or budae jjigae, said Brian Lillis, the products brand manager. Its no surprise that if they become chefs, that the Spam products can be found onto their menus. Beyond Canned Meat Ravi Kapur, the chef and one of the owners of Liholiho Yacht Club, makes Spam in-house, too and he did not know there was a stigma about Spam until he left his hometown Oahu, Hawaii, for college. It was just a part of everyday life in a way, says Kapur. That said, he hopes the story he tells doesnt stop at Spam. He says when he uses Spam in his cooking, it ties him back to his roots, but thats not the only tether he has. Is it my favorite dish on the menu? Absolutely not. Is it the most important tool in my tool kit? Absolutely not, Kapur said. Its just one of the many things that remind me of where I came from. Armando Litiatco, who owns F.O.B., a restaurant featuring Filipino barbecue in Brooklyn, shares similar sentiments. He only serves Spam twice a week for brunch, slicing the meat and smothering it in mustard, brown sugar and then searing it the same way his mother would make them when he was growing up. He says even though he keeps it on the menu for customers who love it, he battles with himself every time he tweaks or reprints the menu at the restaurant. Litiatco says it bothers him when people associate Spam with Filipino food: I dont want it to define the cuisine. Despite this, he recognizes the shifting perspectives among American diners. He thinks they are not only more open to Spam, but also deep Asian food that goes beyond Asian-American staples like chow mein and General Tsos chicken. There are so many islands 7,000-plus islands in the Philippines, he said. There are so many different flavors. Ku, the author of Dubious Gastronomy, says that new openness says something about the countrys multicultural palate and that, in fact, its important to remember that the unique international history of dishes like these spins on Spam is what makes them not just Asian American. Theyre also, he says, simply American, period. Asians have contributed to American food since the 19th century, Ku said. When we talk about these Asian chefs opening up restaurants, showcasing Asian food, its very much an American phenomenon as much as it is any other kind of phenomenon. Stocks sank Tuesday on both sides of the Atlantic as investors feared for the US economic outlook, tracked a political flare-up between Rome and Brussels and continued to digest the outcome of Europe's parliamentary elections. On Wall Street, fears of a slowing economy pushed Treasury bills lower, with the rate on the 10-year briefly touching the lowest level since September 2017. US stocks also sank, sending major indices to their lowest levels in two months and compounding losses for May, which is now likely to be Wall Street's first down month for the year. "The stock market is hesitating while the bond market seems to be of a pretty strong view that the world economy is slowing," Karl Haeling of LBBW told AFP. "Also, from a psychological perspective, the stock market tends to underperform in May so a lot of buyers just want to wait until the end of the month." An index of US consumer confidence on Tuesday registered an unexpectedly strong jump for May, pointing to sustained retail spending in the second quarter of 2019. But other segments of the US economy, including business investment and sales of manufactured goods as well as a slowing services sector, have raised concerns of late. - 'Old rules' - In Europe, Milan, Frankfurt and Paris all retreated as Italian debt concerns returned to the fore. And London, where investors returned from a long weekend, did a little better as a weak pound helped stocks stem losses. "Italy is once again becoming a problem for the eurozone," said analyst Konstantinos Anthis at trading firm ADSS. However, losses were limited after a much-feared surge in populist groups was largely contained in European Parliament elections. "European stock markets are in the red as Italian government bond yields have ticked up over fear of a political fight between Rome and Brussels," said analyst David Madden at CMC Markets UK. "The EU has warned the Italian government they could be fined... for failing to curb their debt levels, and Italy's joint deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini declared he will use all his energies to fight the EU's rules." Story continues Salvini said Tuesday he expected Brussels to hit Rome with a three billion-euro ($3.4 billion) fine over the country's rising debt and structural deficit levels. "At a time when youth unemployment touches 50 percent in some regions... someone in Brussels is demanding, under the old rules, a fine of three billion euros," he told RTL 102.5 radio. "All my energy will go into changing these rules from the past," said Salvini, who has been emboldened after his far-right League party topped Sunday's European Parliament elections in Italy. The European Commission is expected to start disciplinary steps against Italy on June 5 by opening an excessive deficit procedure that could hand Italy a fine of up to 0.2 percent of the nation's GDP. Italy's public debt is seen as a big problem, sitting at 132 percent of the country's GDP in 2018 -- way above the 60 percent EU ceiling. - Key figures around 2100 GMT - New York - Dow: DOWN 0.9 percent at 25,347.77 (close) New York - S&P 500: DOWN 0.8 percent at 2,802.39 (close) New York - Nasdaq: DOWN 0.4 percent at 7,607.35 (close) Milan - FTSE MIB: DOWN 0.5 percent at 20,260.98 points (close) London - FTSE 100: DOWN 0.1 percent at 7,268.95 (close) Frankfurt - DAX 30: DOWN 0.4 percent at 12,027.05 (close) Paris - CAC 40: DOWN 0.4 percent at 5,312.69 (close) EURO STOXX 50: DOWN 0.5 percent at 3,348.86 (close) Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 0.4 percent at 21,260.14 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng: UP 0.4 percent at 27,390.81 (close) Shanghai - Composite: UP 0.6 percent at 2,909.91 (close) Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.1162 from $1.1194 Dollar/yen: DOWN at 109.37 yen from 109.51 yen Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.2655 from $1.2679 at 2050 GMT Euro/pound: DOWN at 88.22 pence from 88.28 Oil - Brent Crude: FLAT at $70.11 per barrel Oil - West Texas Intermediate: UP 51 cents at $59.14 burs-dg/wd Houston Astros' stars Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa were both evaluated by team physicians Tuesday. Altuve returned to Houston from a rehab assignment at Triple-A Round Rock after experiencing fatigue and soreness in his right leg. Correa was removed from Tuesday's lineup against the Chicago Cubs due to pain in his ribs. "Injuries suck, no matter what time it happens during the year," Houston manager A.J. Hinch told reporters Tuesday. "It happens to everybody. This has been a bad week for us. We're going to be fine. We have good players who can win games." Altuve has been out since May 11 due to a strained left hamstring. Hinch said the second baseman's hamstring is better. The new symptoms are in the right leg, the one he had knee surgery on in October. Altuve, 29, is batting just .243 this season with nine homers and 21 RBIs in 39 games. Correa, 24, is batting .295 with 11 homers and 35 RBIs. The shortstop had played 50 of the Astros' first 55 games entering Tuesday. Houston is already playing without All-Star slugger George Springer, who has only played one game since May 19 due to back and hamstring injuries. Springer is batting .308 with 17 homers and 43 RBIs. --Field Level Media Elisha Greer, left, was beaten and raped by Marcus Allyn Keith Martin, right (Picture: Sky News/7 News) An Australian man who kidnapped, raped and beat a British backpacker has been jailed for 10 years. Marcus Allyn Keith Martin, 24, was sentenced at Cairns District Court on Tuesday, having previously pleaded guilty to the rape and deprivation of liberty of Elisha Greer, from Liverpool. Miss Greer, who travelled to Australia in 2015 when aged 22 and met Martin in 2017, told TV programme This Morning she had been repeatedly beaten and raped by her attacker, who threatened he would hurt her family if she ever left. She said he stayed with her after meeting him at a party, before they were both evicted from her accommodation and travelled round Queensland in a car for weeks. She waived her right to anonymity to speak about what happened to her, and described Martin as a vile human being. She said: "He pretty much changed my mind to believe that if I ever was away from him he'd murder me. "It all became a little bit numb. So you sort of, not get used to it, but you don't think about it any more so it just becomes normal." She said Martin, who was often high on crystal meth, had paranoid thoughts and believed she was from Interpol. In her efforts to get away, Miss Greer said she once wrote "please help me" in a visitors' book somewhere they visited. Read more Mount Everest climber who fell to his death posted Instagram warning Nigel Farage vows to stand in general election after Euro election victory Raspberry-picking robot could replace migrant workers after Brexit Martin was eventually caught when she drove away from a petrol station without paying for fuel, in the hope police would arrest them. Miss Greer was bruised and battered when she was rescued by police on the outback highway near Mitchell, about 600km west of Brisbane. Elisha Greer, from Liverpool, waived her right to anonymity to tell her story (Picture: Sky News/7 News) Miss Greer was beaten during her month-long ordeal (Picture: Sky News/7 News) The service station manager Beverley Page told reporters at the time Miss Greer was crying and shaking when she explained she could not pay for fuel because her ex-boyfriend had her wallet. When officers pulled their vehicle over on the Warrego Highway, they found Martin hiding in the back. Miss Greer said 10 charges against Martin, eight of rape, one of serious cruelty to animals and one of torture, had been dropped - but he had pleaded guilty to three counts of rape and one count of deprivation of liberty. She said: "I'm happy that it's finally going to be over but I am a bit annoyed that he is not getting all of the sentencing done, because I don't think that's fair." BERLIN (AP) The creator of a photo exhibit of Holocaust survivors in Austria expressed dismay Tuesday that his portraits were slashed and daubed with swastikas in three attacks this month, but said the vandalism serves to emphasize why the show is important. "This destruction is the worst possible scenario," German-Italian artist Luigi Toscano told The Associated Press. "These survivors trusted me when I took their photos and now their pictures have been defaced I'm shocked." In the most recent attack, 10 larger-than-life portraits of Holocaust survivors, which are on show on a central Vienna street, were slashed across the faces late Sunday. Earlier, three pictures were cut and four were defaced with swastikas and anti-Semitic slurs, Toscano said. President Alexander Van der Bellen, who opened the exhibit "Lest We Forget," condemned the attack Monday. Vienna police are investigating. The exhibition, on part of the Ringstrasse, a busy road that runs around downtown Vienna, is made up of 80 portraits of Holocaust survivors. Toscano said he talked to some of the survivors after the vandalism occurred and though they were hurt, they told him that, "now more than ever before these portraits need to be shown." The artist also received support from many people in Vienna, he said. A group of young Muslims, a Catholic youth group and a Viennese theater group arranged for an around-the clock vigil that started Monday night. More than 60 people showed up to protect the exhibit all night, Toscano said. Some brought along tents, lit candle and some even showed up with sewing kits. "I was especially touched by the women who came and stitched the photos back together," Toscano said. "I didn't even think it was possible. " The supporters in Vienna said they'd continue their vigil until the exhibit closes on May 31. The portraits, which are 2.5 meters (8 feet) tall and 1.5 meters (5 feet) wide, are made from a textile-like material that is water-repellent. So far, they have been shown in 13 countries worldwide. An exhibit in San Francisco just ended without any incidents, while another that's currently on show at the banks of the Rhine river in the western German city of Mainz is getting police protection, Toscano said. On Tuesday, the United Nations Human Rights office condemned the attacks on the exhibition and expressed concern "about the rise in anti-Semitic incidents taking place in a number of European countries and the United States." Vienna (AFP) - The outlines of a stormy election campaign have begun to take shape in Austria a day after Chancellor Sebastian Kurz became the first post-war leader to be removed by a no-confidence vote. The 32-year-old conservative, who already broke records when he emerged as the world's youngest leader in 2017, lost his post on Monday after MPs voted to oust his government in the wake of the so-called "Ibiza-gate" affair. The scandal saw Kurz's far-right deputy Heinz-Christian Strache caught on camera appearing to offer public contracts in return for campaign help from a fake Russian backer. Hours after the vote, Kurz addressed cheering supporters to portray himself as a figure of stability in what political analyst Thomas Hofer called an "election campaign (launch) with a clear message" ahead of a snap poll expected in September. The expert said that while the no-confidence motion had been "inconvenient", it was by no means the end of the road for Kurz. "He loses his stage as chancellor, but I believe he has already factored that in," Hofer told AFP. He predicted a "very fierce electoral campaign" with Kurz's former coalition partner, the far-right Freedom Party (FPOe), and the main opposition Social Democrats (SPOe) building their campaigns around attacking the ex-leader. - 'Big excitement' - Kurz has said his priority is to ensure a smooth transfer of power to an interim technocratic government, before hitting the campaign trail in earnest with a spring in his step. Kurz's People's Party (OeVP) gained 34.6 percent of the vote and two extra seats in Sunday's European Parliament elections -- a record for any Austrian party since the country joined the EU. Political expert Sylvia Kritzinger said events in Austria reflected the struggles of formerly dominant parties elsewhere in Europe to build lasting coalitions. "I see that as a healthy sign of democracy that if something doesn't work out or no compromise can be found, that voters are called back to the polls again," she told AFP. Story continues The scandal's fallout had caused "big excitement" in Austria as a successful no-confidence vote and a technocratic government were unprecedented in its post-war history, she added. However, Kritzinger also said Kurz would not suffer unduly from being thrown out of office. While he loses the advantage of being seen on "trips abroad, meetings with other foreign heads of government", his new role will mean "he can concentrate on the election campaign", according to Kritzinger. - 'Talented politician' - Sunday's European parliamentary elections also saw the FPOe fall back from 19.7 percent in 2014 to 17.2 percent as a result of "Ibiza-gate", while the SPOe vote flatlined on 23.9 percent. "The FPOe will lead an election campaign not to be number one, but to solidify their base, to keep what can be kept," Hofer said. The party is "very, very good at political framing" and has wasted no time to portray itself as a "victim" of a grand conspiracy aimed at removing it from power. For all the political drama of recent days, some observers expect Austria to get a government of a similar complexion once the dust has settled. The left-leaning Der Standard daily said in a front-page editorial Tuesday that despite the vitriol currently flowing between the FPOe and the OeVP, the two parties may well find themselves working together again. The SPOe has "gone missing," according to the paper. "Sebastian Kurz is a very talented politician with a strong penchant for domination. If it seems advantageous, Kurz will try to govern with the FPOe again after the elections," the paper said. VIENNA (Reuters) - Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz left office on Tuesday after parliament voted out his conservative provisional government, blaming him in part for a political crisis triggered by a video sting scandal that felled his far-right deputy. President Alexander Van der Bellen formally relieved the cabinet of its duties and asked ministers except Kurz to carry on for some days until a caretaker cabinet is chosen pending the next parliamentary election, expected in September. Being ousted does not spell the political demise of the 32-year-old Kurz, however. He remains leader of his People's Party and intends to lead it back to victory in September after it came first in Sunday's European Parliament election. "I am still here," he told a party rally after Monday's parliamentary no-confidence vote against his ruling coalition. The opposition Social Democrats and Kurz's ex-coalition ally, the far-right Freedom Party (FPO), backed the move, saying Kurz was partially responsible for the scandal that discredited FPO leader Heinz-Christian Strache. "The disturbing image of Ibiza - however you say it, Ibiza? - has buried itself deep in our heads, not only here but also of course abroad," Van der Bellen, 75, said at the ceremony in which he dissolved the cabinet, referring to the video filmed on that island in which Strache spoke of fixing state contracts. Strache denies committing any crime but quit all political posts shortly after the video surfaced. The footage raised questions about money and influence peddling in Austria while shaking public trust in the country's political parties. "It creates a distorted image of our homeland, a different image to what Austria is really like. Now it is our task to change that image step by step," Van der Bellen said. Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Hartwig Loeger took over temporarily as chancellor and will represent Austria at a summit of European Union leaders in Brussels on Tuesday. Van der Bellen must now choose a new chancellor to put together a transitional cabinet. He has said he hopes to reach a solution for a new government this week. Van der Bellen called on all parties to show respect for each other, which the opposition will see as a swipe at Kurz for failing to make a serious effort to build bridges with them before Monday. "It is not enough in a democracy to only speak to the others when you need them," Van der Bellen said, adding that forging deeper relations was "hard work". (The story refiles to remove duplication of the seventh paragraph beginning - Strache denies...). (Reporting by Francois Murphy; Editing by Mark Heinrich) Automation has made planes safer and more efficient, but the crashes of two Boeing 737 Max jets lead some to wonder if there is a dangerous flip side. Though advanced autopilots and computers are an integral part of any modern jetliner, many pilots worry that the systems detract from developing and maintaining their own abilities. "Weve been talking about this in the industry for years. Pilots are losing their basic flying skills, and theres an overreliance on automation," Les Westbrooks, an associate professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, said after the latest 737 Max crash, an Ethiopian Airlines flight in March. A Lion Air flight crashed into the Java Sea five months earlier. The two accidents killed a total of 346 passengers and crew. Boeing is redesigning a computerized system in the jet, but questions are being raised about pilot actions as well. More: Boeing says 737 Max software is fixed, now it's up to the FAA Appearing before a House subcommittee this month, FAA acting Administrator Daniel Elwell expressed concern that pilots in both jets apparently made mistakes in trying to deal with the emergencies. More: FAA chief defends grounding Boeing 737 Max later than other nations He said he was disturbed that, based on the flight data recorders, it appeared that pilots didn't properly deal with a stabilizer trim problem early despite the issues with Boeing's faulty onboard computer system. "You don't pull out a checklist. You memorize it, and you are tested on it all the time," said Elwell, who was an American Airlines pilot for 16 years. In the case of the Boeing 737 Max, a computerized system was installed to compensate for the jet's tendency to point its nose upward because of heavier engines that were placed farther forward on the wings. It was called the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS). In the case of the Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines crashes, pilots wrestled to keep the jetliners aloft as the MCAS repeatedly switched on and pointed the nose toward the ground. Story continues The link to one of the 737 Max's automated systems raises "concerns about pilots' abilities to recognize and react to unexpected events," Transportation Department Inspector General Calvin Scovel wrote in prepared remarks for the subcommittee hearing. As for the MCAS, training in it may become more common as more 737 Max simulators are rolled out. There are 17 simulators for the 737 variant globally, Boeing spokesman Paul Bergman said. "We expect the number of Max simulators to more than double by years end," he said in an email. It wasn't just the two Boeing 737 Max crashes in which trouble with automation played a role. An Asiana Airlines airliner crashed short of the runway at San Francisco International Airport in 2013 because, an investigation found, the pilots didn't thoroughly understand how the plane's automated systems worked. Experts said automation has helped to make aviation one of the safest means of transportation. Because of advanced autopilot systems, aircraft save fuel by flying in an optimal way. They can be landed in fog, a boon to travelers who no longer are diverted to other airports. The systems are so advanced that they can counteract bad judgments by pilots. Automated systems are switched on for about 90% of a typical airline trip, according to government estimates. Those same experts said pilots must not be simply monitors of a plane's automated systems but have the ability to step in with hands-on flying. Though all pilots must pass qualification exams for every type of plane they fly, the fear is they'll forget skills when they need them the most. "Airlines don't teach pilots to fly. They teach procedures. Your basic core skills should be there before you get to the airline," said Bo Corby, director of standards and training for Future & Active Pilot Advisors, or FAPA, a career and financial advisory service. He said the focus for training many pilots is to teach them how to use the automated systems, de-emphasizing basic flying skills. He said the time has come to revert to a system in which knowledge of core techniques becomes critical again. Veteran airline pilot John Cox said it's clear that automation overall has made flying safer. The key is not to have an overdependency on it "to be comfortable and capable of being able to fly the plane manually. That has been an industry challenge," he said. Cox said there's more to the Ethiopian Airlines crash than an automation issue. The pilots were confronted with a load of warnings in the cockpit, more than anyone could be reasonably expected handle, he said. "You hit a point called task saturation. You are taking in more information than you can process," Cox said. Amid all those distractions, a person's cognitive ability to deal with them can drop by half. "Automation dependence is not a cause, but it is a contributor" to the disaster, he said. Trainers, Cox said, should "emphasize manual flying skills and not have a dependence on the computer, but use them as aids." More: Trump nominee to lead FAA Dickson faces safety questions This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: On autopilot: 'Pilots are losing their basic flying skills,' some fear after Boeing 737 Max crashes Shares of Ball Corporation BLL have outperformed the industry on a year-to-date basis, aided by continued strong demand for aluminum packaging and focus on new products. The stock has gained 33.7% compared with the industrys growth of 33.5%. The company has a market cap of $20.5 billion. Over the last three months, its average volume of shares traded has been approximately 2.37M. The company has an expected long-term earnings per share growth rate of 5.50%. Lets delve deeper and analyze the reasons behind the companys impressive price performance and find out if there is room for further appreciation: Strong Outlook: Ball Corporation reaffirmed comparable EBITDA guidance of $2 billion and expects free cash flow of more than $1 billion in 2019. This is backed by continued strong demand for aluminum packaging and robust aerospace backlog. For the ongoing year, contributions from its new lines, year-over-year impact of SG&A improvement undertaken in 2018 and plant-cost initiatives will boost earnings growth and margin expansion. In 2019 and beyond, the company anticipates earnings per share to be up 10-15%. Healthy Growth Projections The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Ball Corporations 2019 earnings per share is currently pegged at $2.61, indicating year-over-year growth of 18.6%. The same for 2020 is pinned at $2.97, calling for a year-over-year rise of 13.7%. Driving Factors In the first quarter of 2019, overall global beverage can demand climbed more than 8% levels not seen in a long time. Customers are now preferring cans over glass and plastic. Ball Corporation remains well poised to meet this growing demand. The company remains actively focused on expanding geographic footprint, aligning with the right customers and markets, growing with new products and capabilities, and leveraging its technical know-how. The company anticipates capital spending of $600 million in the current year. Ball Corporations North American segment will likely benefit from fixed cost savings associated with the North American optimization program, volume growth, improved aluminum can-sheet quality, and reduce start-up costs in 2019 and beyond. The South American industry trends remain strong, with cans being the favored package in the beer, tea, energy and hard alcohol categories. Furthermore, expansions in Paraguay remain on track, while the ones in Argentina and Chile are already contributing to the segments growth. The companys aerospace business delivered stellar revenues and operating earnings in the first quarter, aided by solid contract performance. The Aerospace business is poised to witness revenue growth of more than 15% this year. With contracted backlog levels of $2.1 billion at the end of the first quarter and won-not-booked backlog at $4.9 billion, the future looks brighter for aerospace for the next three to five years. In addition, the company is initiating additional products to expand its aerospace infrastructure and testing capabilities. Ball Corporation continues to execute its strategies of achieving better value for standard products and higher growth for specialty products. Specialty cans now represent more than 43% of its mix compared with 30% in 2016. The company focuses on pursuing cost-out programs, completing growth capital projects and commercializing on the inherent sustainability attributes of metal packaging, which will benefit it in the days ahead. Story continues Ball Corporation Price and Consensus Ball Corporation Price and Consensus Ball Corporation price-consensus-chart | Ball Corporation Quote Zacks Rank & Stocks to Consider Ball Corporation currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). A few better-ranked stocks in the Industrial Products sector are DMC Global Inc. BOOM , Lawson Products, Inc. LAWS and Harsco Corporation HSC, each sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), at present. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. DMC Global has an estimated earnings growth rate of 83.5% for the ongoing year. The companys shares have soared 53.6%, in the past year. Lawson Products has an expected earnings growth rate of 24.5% for the current year. The stock has appreciated 62% in a years time. Harsco has a projected earnings growth rate of 9.1% for 2019. The companys shares have gained 5.4%, over the past year. 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 Ball Corporation (BLL) : Free Stock Analysis Report DMC Global Inc. (BOOM) : Free Stock Analysis Report Lawson Products, Inc. (LAWS) : Free Stock Analysis Report Harsco Corporation (HSC) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research Barrick Gold Corporation GOLD announced that the proposed expansion of Pueblo Viejo will more than double the contribution of the mine. The expansion includes increasing the mines processing plant and tailings capacity. Notably, Pueblo Viejo is a tier one gold mine. Barrick is expected to make an initial capital investment of more than $1 billion (100% basis), which will extend the mines life into the 2030s and beyond. Feasibility study for the expansion project is expected to complete during 2020. The mine is managed by Barrick through a joint venture (JV) with Newmont Goldcorp Corporation NEM. The JV partners have already made an investment of $5.2 billion in the said mine, representing nearly 20% of the total foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Dominican Republic in the past 10 years. Also, direct cash taxes paid by the mine totaled $1.6 billion, representing 57% of the cash distributions. Since 2013, Pueblo Viejo contributed 30% to the countrys exports. The mine generated a total net added value of $8.5 billion. This represents 2% of the Dominican Republics gross domestic product (GDP). Barricks shares have lost 10.4% in the past year against the industrys 1% rise. The company reported adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of 11 cents in the first quarter of 2019, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 10 cents. Gold production rose roughly 30% year over year to 1.37 million ounces in the quarter. Average realized price of gold fell around 2% year over year to $1,307 per ounce. Cost of sales per ounce went up roughly 8% year over year to $947 million. All-in sustaining costs (AISC) rose 3% to $825 per ounce in the quarter. Barrick stated that its key growth projects were on track. Also, brownfields and greenfields exploration were boosting reserves and enabling the company to identify new opportunities. For 2019, the company anticipates gold production in the range of 5.1-5.6 million ounces at AISC of $870-$920 per ounce and cost of sales of $910-$970 per ounce. Zacks Rank & Key Picks Barrick currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the basic materials space are Materion Corporation MTRN and AngloGold Ashanti Limited AU, both sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. Materion has an expected earnings growth rate of 23.1% for 2019. The companys shares have gained 18.4% in the past year. AngloGold has an estimated earnings growth rate of 86.8% for the current year. Its shares have rallied 37.3% in the past year. 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 Barrick Gold Corporation (GOLD) : Free Stock Analysis Report AngloGold Ashanti Limited (AU) : Free Stock Analysis Report Newmont Mining Corporation (NEM) : Free Stock Analysis Report Materion Corporation (MTRN) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research If you own shares in Beijing Jingkelong Company Limited (HKG:814) 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. The first type is company specific volatility. Investors use diversification across uncorrelated stocks to reduce this kind of price volatility across the portfolio. The second type is the broader market volatility, which you cannot diversify away, since it arises from macroeconomic factors which directly affects all the stocks on the market. Some stocks see their prices move in concert with the market. Others tend towards stronger, gentler or unrelated price movements. Some investors use beta as a measure of how much a certain stock is impacted by market risk (volatility). While we should keep in mind that Warren Buffett has cautioned that 'Volatility is far from synonymous with risk', beta is still a useful factor to consider. To make good use of it you must first know that the beta of the overall market is 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. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! View our latest analysis for Beijing Jingkelong What 814's beta value tells investors Beijing Jingkelong has a five-year beta of 0.92. This is reasonably close to the market beta of 1, so the stock has in the past displayed similar levels of volatility to the overall 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 Beijing Jingkelong fares in that regard, below. Story continues SEHK:814 Income Statement, May 28th 2019 How does 814's size impact its beta? With a market capitalisation of HK$635m, Beijing Jingkelong is a very small company by global standards. It is quite likely to be unknown to most investors. Companies this small are usually more volatile than the market, whether or not that volatility is correlated. Therefore, it's a bit surprising to see that this stock has a beta value so close to the overall market. What this means for you: Beijing Jingkelong has a beta value quite close to that of the overall market. That doesn't tell us much on its own, so it is probably worth considering whether the company is growing, if you're looking for stocks that will go up more than the overall market. In order to fully understand whether 814 is a good investment for you, we also need to consider important company-specific fundamentals such as Beijing Jingkelongs 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 814s future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for 814s outlook. Past Track Record: Has 814 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 814's historicals for more clarity. Other Interesting Stocks: It's worth checking to see how 814 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. BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Belgium's former king has submitted a DNA sample demanded from a woman who says she is his daughter after a court ordered him to pay 5,000 euros ($5,586) a day if he failed to do so. The 84-year-old King Albert II agreed to submit a sample even though he is challenging at the supreme court a ruling that has resulted in him having to take a paternity test, lawyer Alain Berenboom said on Tuesday. "He noted that the court had decided that the conclusions of this examination would be strictly confidential until a new judicial decision," Berenboom said in a statement. The retired monarch, who abdicated six years ago in favour of his son Philippe, has been fighting the paternity claim of Belgian artist Delphine Boel, 51, for over a decade. His lawyers argue it is premature for him to take a paternity test while Boel still has a legal father, Jacques Boel, scion of one of Belgium's richest industrial dynasties. The challenge at the supreme court concerns a lower court ruling that Delphine Boel is not Jacques Boel's offspring, which DNA tests have shown. That resulted in the Brussels appeals court ordering him to undergo a paternity test. The supreme court is not expected to deliver its verdict until the end of the year. Boel's identity became a topic of public debate after the publication in 1999 of a biography of Queen Paola, Albert's Italian wife, which alleged that he had had a long extra-marital relationship from which a daughter was born in the 1960s. Albert, who now has no formal public role, has acknowledged that he and Paola had marital difficulties. He has not commented on Delphine Boel. Albert and Paola's three children are all older than Boel. Next in line to the throne is 17-year-old Princess Elisabeth, daughter of Philippe and Queen Mathilde. Boel has said that she is not looking for money, just recognition that the former king is her father. (Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop; Editing by Frances Kerry) WASHINGTON Former Vice President Joe Biden waited until President Donald Trump was back on the East Coast before letting loose at a weekend's worth of insults. Minutes after Air Force One touched down, returning Trump to Washington after a formal state visit to Japan, the Democratic 2020 candidate responded to the president's decision to embrace an insult hurled at Biden by North Korean state media. "To be on foreign soil, on Memorial Day, and to side repeatedly with a murderous dictator against a fellow American and former Vice President speaks for itself," Biden's deputy campaign manager Kate Bedingfield said in a statement. Bedingfield called Trump's remarks "beneath the dignity of the office." Trump did not respond to questions as he returned to the White House Tuesday but appeared to joke about the brouhaha in a tweet later that evening. The president said he was "actually sticking up for Sleepy Joe Biden" because he used a "much softer" term than North Korean state media. "Kim Jong Un called him a 'low IQ idiot,' and many other things, whereas I related the quote of Chairman Kim as a much softer 'low IQ individual,'" Trump wrote on Twitter. "Who could possibly be upset with that?" A top aide in the president's campaign also shot back at the Biden campaign. "Thats rich coming from Joe Biden, who bashed President Trump while standing on foreign soil earlier this year in Germany," Tim Murtaugh, director of communications for Trump's campaign posted in a tweet. Murtaugh appeared to be referring to a speech Biden made in February in which he criticized the Trump administration's zero-tolerance policy at the U.S.-Mexico border that led to an increase in family separations. Biden called that policy an "embarrassment." "The America I see values basic human decency, not snatching children from their parents or turning our back on refugees at our border," Biden said. "Americans know that's not right." Story continues Biden did not mention Trump by name during the address, nor did he attack Trump personally. Trump upended a decades-long convention of U.S. officials leaving internal politics at the "water's edge" during the visit to Japan over the weekend, repeatedly slamming Biden throughout the trip. The president latched onto an insult hurled at Biden by North Koreas Kim Jong Un and told an international audience he agreed with the dictator. "Kim Jong Un made a statement that Joe Biden is a low-IQ individual. He probably is, based on his record, Trump said during a news conference in Tokyo with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Former Vice President Joe Biden arrives for the kick off of his presidential election campaign in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on May 18, 2019. The back-and-forth between Trump and Biden began more than a week ago, when the former vice president criticized Trump's foreign policy during a rally in Philadelphia. Biden, who leads the Democratic presidential field in polling, accused Trump of edging closer to tyrants such as Kim. Days later, North Korean state media described Biden as a fool of low IQ and an imbecile bereft of elementary quality as a human being. Biden's campaign remained mostly silent over the weekend, but sent out the statement shortly after Trump arrived back in Washington. Like what youre reading? Download the USA TODAY app for more This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden camp fires back at Trump's 'low IQ' remarks: 'Beneath the dignity of the office' By James Oliphant WASHINGTON, May 28 (Reuters) - Former Vice President Joe Biden, the front-runner for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, on Tuesday released an education plan aimed at boosting teacher pay and reducing the funding gap between wealthy and low-income public schools. Biden also said he would seek to make schools safer by pressing Congress to enact a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, a proposal almost certainly to be opposed by Republicans and gun-lobby groups. Biden was set to detail his proposal - his first major policy rollout as a presidential candidate - at a campaign event in Houston on Tuesday involving the American Federation of Teachers. U.S. Senator Kamala Harris, another a Democratic candidate for president, outlined an education plan in March that would raise teacher salaries by $315 billion over the next 10 years. Biden proposes tripling federal funding for schools with students from low-income families, with the directive that those funds be used by districts to raise teacher pay. The federal monies would also be used to provide preschool for three- and four-year-olds and improve curricula for those schools. The plan would seek to double the number of psychologists, guidance counselors, social workers and nurses in the public schools. The Houston event was part of AFTs endorsement vetting process. The union, which has 1.7 million members, is likely months away from an endorsement, as is the National Education Association, which has 3 million members. Both unions have established a more formalized and cautious approach to endorsements than in years past, seeking greater input from rank-and-file members. While Biden has made support from organized labor a top priority for his campaign, he may have trouble with teachers unions stemming from his eight years as President Barack Obamas vice president. The unions were highly critical of Obamas education secretary, Arne Duncan, and school reforms the Obama administration advocated. They included tying teacher evaluation to student performance and increasing the number of charter schools nationwide. Story continues As a U.S. senator, Biden also supported No Child Left Behind, the sweeping education-reform law advocated by Republican President George W. Bush that promoted standardized testing as a means for evaluating schools and punished those deemed underperforming. Biden later soured on the program. A longtime gun control advocate, Biden was an author of a 1994 law that banned assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. The ban expired in 2004, and Biden has called for its renewal. He opposes arming teachers. (Reporting by James Oliphant Editing by Colleen Jenkins and Dan Grebler) Last week, President Trump conferred on Attorney General Bill Barr the authority to declassify documents relevant to his inquiry into what we can collectively call the Russia investigation. This includes not only Crossfire Hurricane, the counterintelligence probe formally opened by the FBI in late July 2016, but all of the relevant investigative threads, including those pursued by other intelligence agencies such as the CIAs collaborations with foreign intelligence services, beginning in 2015. In other words, the public is about to learn a lot more about decision-making during the Obama administration. As night follows day, the Democrat-media complex went apoplectic. Gone are the days when the press always wanted more information because it perceived its role, vouchsafed by the Constitution, to be the publics eye on government. Much of the mainstream media is now in an all but openly declared partnership with one of our two major political parties. Consequently, when a Republican administration is in power or being questioned, classified leaks are the order of the day. When a Democratic administration is under the microscope, we get lectures on the wages of compromising intelligence secrets, especially methods and sources. So, naturally, we are treated to hysterical reports that the attorney general whose Justice Department cannot enforce the law effectively unless it can entice cooperation from reluctant sources is going to expose covert operatives gratuitously, ensuring that no courageous spy or foreign intelligence service will ever risk cooperation with the United States again. It is an absurd narrative. Barr started his government career working for the CIA. As much as any AG in the history of the country, he grasps the nexus between covert intelligence-gathering and national security. Frankly, he grasps it better than the president does. He understands the inter-agency equities in our trove of defense secrets not least, the commitments made to sources and foreign intelligence agencies, the assurances of confidentiality in exchange for cooperation. He is less apt than our mercurial president to direct a sweeping declassification order that would disregard these concerns. Story continues So far, the heated discussion about this issue has been the reductive Manichean idiocy that all debate of complex issues becomes: Either our intelligence law-enforcement agencies must be completely immune from inquiry, or all classified information must be exposed such that we can no long protect secrets or the country. Things never actually work that way. There are always accommodations that respect the vital interests on both sides of the equation political accountability and national security. Courts, for example, are called on in many cases to apply the Classified Information Procedures Act. It involves just this kind of line-drawing in the not-uncommon situations in which (a) the criminal law could not be enforced if the price tag of charging a defendant were the possibility that a court would erroneously order disclosure of defense secrets on due-process grounds; or, relatedly, (b) it would not be possible to have a fair trial if an accused were not given classified information that actually is essential to the defense. It is almost always possible to disclose the information needed for some proper public purpose while safeguarding what must be kept secret. That is not to say it is always easy to do. Sometimes, in lieu of disclosing top-secret information, the government must acknowledge facts it would prefer not to acknowledge. In lieu of, say, identifying a specific confidential informant, the government might admit that it engaged in questionable behavior (such as investigative tactics that were too intrusive under the circumstances that obtained). Thats an important distinction that has been lost in the public debate. Declassification is not the same thing as disclosure. The fact that an intelligence agency may be directed to declassify information so that investigators are permitted to see it does not necessarily mean the information will be made publicly available. Ultimate investigative conclusions will be made available, but some information (maybe a lot) will be withheld to protect vital intelligence (though made available to Congress probably through senior bipartisan leadership and the relevant committees with security clearances). Think, for example, of the January 2017 Intelligence Community Assessment of Russias interference in the 2016 campaign. Most underlying intelligence remains concealed, but enough was declassified that a public report could be issued explaining the essence of what happened. To argue that this cannot be done is to say that unelected government officials can do whatever they want, and the peoples representatives cannot question them. Thats dangerous and ridiculous. Finally, the attorney general has been delegated only a sliver of the power that the president already had. There is nothing new here in the sense that there is nothing Barr is now in a position to disclose that Trump was not already empowered to disclose. Barr will now have more influence over disclosure decisions, but even that is only a presumption. Obviously, Barr would not willy-nilly disclose a national-defense secret without first hearing any and all objections from, most prominently, National Intelligence Director Dan Coats, CIA director Gina Haspel, and General Paul Nakasone, who runs NSA and the U.S. Cyber Command. Barr would no doubt carefully weigh any objections by FBI director Chris Wray, even though he is technically Barrs subordinate. There is no reason to believe these highly experienced, competent officials, each of whom understands the competing interests, cannot work out most disagreements something that happens every day in government, and that is unremarkable (at least when it does not involve matters the media-Democrat complex would rather keep concealed). Furthermore, any irreconcilable disputes would still be brought to the White House. The declassification order ostensibly gives the AG the authority, for example, to tell the CIA to declassify some piece of top-secret information; but Barr is in no position to make it happen if the CIA objects. Only one executive-branch official has the power to fire subordinates for noncompliance. I imagine Barr, who understands how the Constitution works, would be the first to tell you that Donald Trump cannot divest the chief executive of ultimate power over executive decision-making, and can withdraw the delegation to the AG at any time. The buck still stops with the president. More from National Review One of the best investments we can make is in our own knowledge and skill set. With that in mind, this article will work through how we can use Return On Equity (ROE) to better understand a business. We'll use ROE to examine Bingo Industries Limited (ASX:BIN), by way of a worked example. Our data shows Bingo Industries has a return on equity of 4.8% for the last year. Another way to think of that is that for every A$1 worth of equity in the company, it was able to earn A$0.048. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Check out our latest analysis for Bingo Industries How Do You Calculate ROE? The formula for return on equity is: Return on Equity = Net Profit Shareholders' Equity Or for Bingo Industries: 4.8% = AU$34m AU$706m (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2018.) Most know that net profit is the total earnings after all expenses, but the concept of shareholders' equity is a little more complicated. 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 Return On Equity Mean? ROE looks at the amount a company earns relative to the money it has kept within the business. The 'return' is the amount earned after tax over the last twelve months. That means that the higher the ROE, the more profitable the company is. So, all else equal, investors should like a high ROE. That means ROE can be used to compare two businesses. Does Bingo Industries Have A Good ROE? Arguably the easiest way to assess company's ROE is to compare it with the average in its industry. However, this method is only useful as a rough check, because companies do differ quite a bit within the same industry classification. As is clear from the image below, Bingo Industries has a lower ROE than the average (9.7%) in the Commercial Services industry. Story continues ASX:BIN Past Revenue and Net Income, May 27th 2019 That's not what we like to see. We'd prefer see an ROE above the industry average, but it might not matter if the company is undervalued. Nonetheless, it could be useful to double-check if insiders have sold shares recently. How Does Debt Impact Return On Equity? Companies usually need to invest money to grow their profits. The cash for investment can come from prior year profits (retained earnings), issuing new shares, or borrowing. In the first two cases, the ROE will capture this use of capital to grow. In the latter case, the debt used for growth will improve returns, but won't affect the total equity. Thus the use of debt can improve ROE, albeit along with extra risk in the case of stormy weather, metaphorically speaking. Bingo Industries's Debt And Its 4.8% ROE Shareholders will be pleased to learn that Bingo Industries has not one iota of net debt! So although its ROE isn't that impressive, we shouldn't judge it harshly on that metric, because it didn't use debt. After all, with cash on the balance sheet, a company has a lot more optionality in good times and bad. The Bottom Line On ROE Return on equity is a useful indicator of the ability of a business to generate profits and return them to shareholders. In my book the highest quality companies have high return on equity, despite low debt. If two companies have the same ROE, then I would generally prefer the one with less debt. Having said that, while ROE is a useful indicator of business quality, you'll have to look at a whole range of factors to determine the right price to buy a stock. It is important to consider other factors, such as future profit growth -- and how much investment is required going forward. So I think it may be worth checking this free report on analyst forecasts for the company. 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. Billionaire BitMEX co-founder Ben Delo has pledged to give the majority of his wealth to philanthropy. | Source: Wikimedia/AP/Shutterstock; Edited by CCN By CCN: Ben Delo, bitcoin billionaire and co-founder of crypto trading platform BitMEX, has pledged the majority of his wealth to Giving Pledge, the philanthropic organization set up by Bill Gates, Melinda Gates, and Warren Buffet. The 35-year-old crypto entrepreneur is Britains youngest self-made billionaire, and the latest to join the philanthropy movement. Delo has pledged the majority of his estimated $3.6 billion net worth to help alleviate catastrophic threats of nuclear war and climate disasters. My ambition now is to do the most good possible with my wealth. To me, this means funding work to safeguard future generations and protect the long-term prospects of humanity. This includes mitigating risks that could spell the end of human endeavour or permanently curtail our potential Ben Delo. Im thrilled that the Giving Pledge is becoming truly global. Melinda and I are pleased to welcome the addition of 14 more philanthropists from Canada, India, the UAE, and the U.S. https://t.co/jQHOXmX40m Bill Gates (@BillGates) June 6, 2018 Bitcoin billionaire Ben Delo joins Giving Pledge The Giving Pledge was established in 2010 by the Gates family and Warren Buffet. It invites wealthy individuals to pledge at least half their net-worth to good causes. More than 200 high-net individuals have signed the pledge, including Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Michael Bloomberg. Writing on the Giving Pledge website, the BitMEX founder said: Read the full story on CCN.com. By Gertrude Chavez-Dreyfuss NEW YORK (Reuters) - Mphasis Ltd, an Indian technology firm majority-owned by Blackstone Group LP, has teamed up with blockchain startup Bitfury to create either a digital token or a platform aimed at automating financial services such as payments in international trade transactions between countries, an Mphasis executive said. Financial terms of the partnership were not disclosed. Andres Ricaurte, senior vice president and global head of payments for Mphasis, told Reuters in a recent interview that both companies will seek to facilitate instant settlement of export and import transactions, reduce reliance on complex foreign exchange systems, and increase flexibility in liquidity management for financial institutions. While there are projects trying to digitize other areas of international trade transactions such as document management and customer due diligence, the core financial services such as cross-border settlements and financing of transactions operate on "outdated and clunky" infrastructure, Ricaurte said. The result is a complex gridlock that limits visibility for all parties and hinders access to liquidity for those who need it most. Those conditions have contributed to a global $1.5 trillion gap between the demand and supply of trade finance, Ricaurte said. The collaboration with Bitfury will try to address this key weakness in the sector. Bitfury, which has a valuation of about $1 billion, is one of the largest companies that develops blockchain solutions for various clients and governments. It raised $80 million recently from investors including the merchant bank founded by billionaire Mike Novogratz, a former macro hedge fund manager at Fortress Investment Group. Blockchain, which first emerged as the system powering the digital currency bitcoin, is a shared database maintained by a network of computers connected to the internet. Blackstone owns 52.3 percent of Mphasis, which currently trades on the National Stock Exchange of India. "Our goal is to accelerate the disruption and transformation in the trade finance space," Ricaurte said. "The exact end-goal - whether it's a platform, a trade token, or a consortia is still to be figured out." He said the venture was not solely about creating a digital currency. "It's about creating a digital representation of the liquidity that's trapped inside this supply chain and leveraging that representation to make trade transactions more seamless and transparent to everyone," Ricaurte said. Mphasis will use Bitfury's Exonum blockchain platform to develop new technologies in the trade finance sector. Bitfury Chief Executive Officer Valery Vavilov said in a statement the two companies "will create inter-operable systems" that will improve fragmented financial systems. (Reporting by Gertrude Chavez-Dreyfuss in New York; Editing by Matthew Lewis) By Anthony Boadle BRASILIA, May 28 (Reuters) - Brazil's Senate was due to vote on Tuesday on a presidential decree that has put President Jair Bolsonaro at odds with his own party and added to the confusion that has been the hallmark of the leader's five months in office. The right-wing firebrand was voted into office on an anti-corruption platform. It included revamping his cabinet to put the financial operations control office known as COAF under Justice Minister Sergio Moro, a former judge who jailed many politicians for kickbacks in the Car Wash scandal. Lawmakers in the lower chamber of Congress last week approved the temporary decree that reduced the number of ministries to 22 from 29, but they kept the COAF out of Moro's hands by restoring it to the Economy Ministry. Bolsonaro's PSL party in the Senate intends to restore the original clause putting the COAF on Moro's watch. But if it succeeds in doing so that means the decree must go back to the lower house for another vote, where it could be rejected and put Bolsonaro's entire reorganization at risk. The decree must pass Congress before it expires on June 3, in which case the executive branch would revert to where it was before Bolsonaro's changes. Bolsonaro has asked the Senate to approve the decree as it was received from the lower house - with COAF remaining under the Economy Ministry. That would avoid his government being thrown into a crisis requiring a major reshuffle that would increase doubts that he can win support for an ambitious pension reform bill - the cornerstone of his economic agenda. Major Olimpio, the leader of Bolsonaro's party in the Senate, insists that the COAF must be handed to Moro as a tool for tracking money laundering in funds moving through the banking system. Olimpio told Reuters on Monday that he had the backing of 44 of the 81 senators to approve that change after pro-Bolsonaro demonstrations on Sunday in Brazil's largest cities made clear that it was a priority for his supporters. "The main demand at the demonstrations was that the COAF should be Moro's, and there was more support for that than for pension reform," he said. Lower house lawmakers, who were targeted by demonstrators for obstructing Bolsonaro's conservative agenda, are not expected to be in any hurry to pass the decree before June 3 if it comes back to them for final approval. (Additional reporting by Ricardo Brito Writing by Anthony Boadle Editing by Phil Berlowitz) By Catarina Demony LISBON (Reuters) - Brazilian Justice Minister Sergio Moro said on Tuesday that the prison gang leaders responsible for killing 55 inmates in prisons across the northern city of Manaus will be moved to maximum-security federal jails. Speaking at an event in Portugal, Moro said the grisly spate of murders earlier this week were a result of a struggle between prison gangs, a major public security issue in Brazil, the country with the world's highest number of murders. "The information we have is that there was a conflict between criminal gangs inside the prisons, which can happen anywhere in the world - but shouldn't," he told reporters. "We have an obligation to try to control these cases. We will transfer the leaders responsible for these acts in Manaus to prisons of maximum security." At least 40 prisoners in Brazil were found strangled to death on Monday in four jails in the Amazon city, where a fight between rival gangs resulted in 15 dead the day before, authorities said. There are no signs that the violence will spread to other parts of the country, a spokesman for Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro said on Tuesday. Otavio Rego Barros told reporters that Bolsonaro was concerned by the violence. The right-wing president has vowed to regain control of the prisons along with building many more. But the vast majority of Brazil's prisons are administered at the state level. For decades they have been badly overcrowded and a headache for underfunded state government. Many lockups essentially serve as recruiting centers for drug gangs. Prison clashes often spread rapidly in Brazil, where drug gangs have de facto control over nearly all jails. A federal task force is being sent to Manaus in an effort to halt the violence. (Reporting by Catarina Demony in Lisbon; Additional reporting by Gabriel Stargardter in Rio de Janeiro; Editing by Grant McCool and Matthew Lewis) By Anthony Boadle BRASILIA (Reuters) - Brazil's right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro convinced his party to vote for a decree to revamp the executive branch on Tuesday, averting a potential crisis that had sown doubt about his ability to obtain the congressional backing he needs to push through legislation. Bolsonaro had issued a decree the day he took office in January to cut the number of ministries to 22 from 29. That was set to expire next week if it were not confirmed by lawmakers. But his own PSL party had planned to vote against the decree in the Senate because they were unhappy that it had been revised by the lower house to keep an anti-graft unit out of the control of Justice Minister Sergio Moro. Failure to obtain congressional approval had risked undoing Bolsonaro's entire reorganization and throwing his government into a crisis that would have deepened concerns about the fate of an ambitious pension reform bill - the cornerstone of his economic agenda. Lower house lawmakers last week approved the bureaucracy-slashing decree but kept the Council for Financial Activities Control (COAF) in the economy ministry, out of the hands of Moro, a former judge who jailed many politicians for kickbacks in the Car Wash scandal. Senator Major Olimpio, the PSL leader in the Senate, had wanted the COAF to be under Moro as a tool for tracking money laundering in the banking system, and not restored to the economy ministry. But he changed his mind after meeting with Bolsonaro. Olimpio said Moro and Economy Minister Paulo Guedes, who is leading the pension reform effort, also asked him to back down. "In view of the requests by the president, Moro and Guedes, we cannot put the government reorganization in danger and the PSL will vote to keep the COAF at the Economy Ministry," Olimpio told reporters. Moro, visiting Portugal, said he was disappointed his ministry would lose the COAF, but said it was a democratic decision by Congress. Besides, he told reporters in Estoril, "we can't allow the whole government reorganization to be lost because of the COAF." The Senate is set to vote on the decree later on Thursday. The support of the PSL means it will almost certainly pass. (Reporting by Anthony Boadle, additional reporting by Lisandra Paraguassu in Brasilia and Catarina Demony in Lisbon; Writing by Anthony Boadle; Editing by Phil Berlowitz and Rosalba O'Brien) This weekend saw the highest voter turnout in European Parliament elections since 1994 and, in Britain, tectonic shifts in party politics. The center-right European Peoples Party (EPP) and the center-left Socialists and Democrats (S&D) lost control of the EUs assembly for the first time, going from 401 seats (54 percent) to a projected 325 seats (43 percent). As predicted, populists and right-wing parties did well, though their victories were more thinly spread than in 2014. In France, Marine Le Pens National Rally came first, with Emmanuel Macrons La Republique en Marche in close second. Right-wing parties also won in Poland (Law and Justice), Hungary (Civic Alliance), and Italy (Lega). Interestingly, across the continent, green parties increased their number of European seats from 52 to 67. Greens did well in the UK, Ireland, and Finland, and surprisingly came second in Germany. Some commentators are calling this trend the Thunberg effect, after the 16-year-old Swedish climate-change activist Greta Thunberg, as it appears to have been fueled by a high turnout of young voters whose main priority is climate change. The domestic fallout of the elections was especially significant in Britain, where the two main political parties Conservative and Labour suffered humiliating defeats and are now struggling to redefine themselves. The European elections were a national embarrassment in the U.K., precisely because Britons voted to leave the bloc in June 2016 and were supposed to have done so by March 29, 2019. The failure to pull off a timely Brexit was most likely on the minds of many as they went grudgingly to the ballot box. It helps explain why Nigel Farages Brexit party, which is only six weeks old, won 31.6 percent of the vote, and why the Lib Dems, back from the political wilderness, came in second with 20.3 percent. Labour came third. The Tories came fifth. This was a protest vote for many fed up with the two main parties, clearly. What is remarkable is just how many. In the aftermath of the results, the outgoing prime minister, Theresa May, said theyd showed the importance of finding a Brexit deal, while Jeremy Corbyn promised that he was listening carefully. Story continues In order to survive, however, the Conservatives need to abandon platitudes and compete with the Farage by becoming the Brexit party. Likewise, Labour must abandon its strategic ambiguity and back Remain. Long-term, Farage has the opposite problem: He must adopt a manifesto covering a range of issues (not just Europe) if the Brexit party is to be taken seriously in the next general election. All these changes have already begun in earnest. In the aftermath of the EU election, Tom Watson, deputy leader of the Labour party, has stated that a change of direction is urgently needed. Emily Thornberry, Labours shadow foreign secretary, stated that going into the EU elections an explicit pro-Remain strategy was a mistake. And John McDonnell, the shadow chancellor of the exchequer, endorsed a second Brexit referendum. Conservative MPs, meanwhile, are busy in the race to succeed Theresa May and have recognized that in order to be taken seriously, they must be prepared to walk away from Europe without a deal. Esther McVey, the former work and pensions secretary, told Sky News that while she would like the EU to come back and reopen the negotiations, she is not going to waste time waiting for that to happen and would prepare for an abrupt exit come October. Before the election, this position was viewed as extreme, reserved only for the likes of Boris Johnson. Now it is mainstream. From the EU perspective, a no-deal Brexit has never looked likelier. Will this be enough to make Brussels reopen negotiations? If so, it will need to do so soon. After the next summit on June 20, the EU has a long summer and doesnt meet again until October 17. As for the British electorate, one (risibly) skewed way of reading the complex mesh of election data is to interpret the votes for the Brexit party and UKIP as representing the entirety of support for Leave, while votes for Labour and all other parties constitute the entirety of support for Remain. Under this view, conveniently for those who want to stop Brexit altogether, 53 percent of the British public currently favors Remain and 46 percent favors Leave. A brilliant graphic from @SkyNews clearly showing that in the EU Elections, a majority of voters are backing a #PeoplesVote on Brexit. Please RT this so everybody knows:#EUelectionresults pic.twitter.com/bVMxT3uZB5 People's Vote UK (@peoplesvote_uk) May 27, 2019 Of course, this does not account for the Labour constituencies (for example, in the North of England) that voted Leave, and that will likely bleed more votes to the Brexit party now that Labour is positioning itself as explicitly anti-Brexit. Nor does it account for those Conservative Remain voters who continue to want to avoid a no-deal Brexit at all costs and who will, given the increasing likelihood of that threat, perhaps begin to vote Lib Dem. Whatever happens going forward, this weekends results show that Brexit will continue to be the defining factor in British politics for the foreseeable future. More from National Review By Allison Martell and Allison Lampert TORONTO/MONTREAL (Reuters) - The Canadian province of British Columbia said on Monday that its public drug plan will switch as many as 20,400 patients from three branded biologic drugs to cheap near-copies called biosimilars, saving an estimated C$96.6 million ($71.9 million)over three years. The new policy from the province's PharmaCare program targets Janssen's Remicade and Amgen's Enbrel which treat arthritis, among other conditions, and Sanofi's long-acting insulin Lantus. It is the first of its kind in a Canadian public plan and could pave the way for similar programs across the country. Biologic drugs are large molecules made using biological processes, and they tend to be expensive. Biosimilars work in the same way as biologics, but unlike generics they are not identical to the drug they are copying. "Biosimilars are a necessary step to ensure PharmaCare provides existing coverage for more people and funds new drugs well into the future," said the British Columbia government in a statement. In Canada, pharmacists cannot swap biosimilars in for their predecessors once patents expire, the way they can with generics. Doctors must specifically prescribe the biosimilar, and they have been slow to do that. European countries have been quicker to adopt the drugs. Sanofi Canada said it was disappointed and regretted that BC "did not take the opportunity to find an alternative solution to preserve this treatment option." Janssen and Amgen did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Canadian law says provincial governments must cover medically necessary care by doctors, but prescription drugs are paid for through a patchwork of public and employer-based insurance plans. While every province offers some drug coverage, it is often limited to the elderly or people with low incomes or exceedingly high drug costs. BC's system is unusual because it covers most residents, with deductibles based on income. BC said patients with some types of arthritis, diabetes and plaque psoriasis would have until Nov. 25, 2019, to switch to a biosimilar. After that, the original biologic drugs would only be covered for those indications under exceptional circumstances. At the same time, BC announced that it would begin covering two newer biologics: Boehringer Ingelheim and Eli Lilly's Jardiance, a diabetes drug, and Eli Lilly's Taltz, which treats psoriatic arthritis. The policy should benefit drugmakers with covered biosimilars: Merck, Sandoz, Pfizer and Eli Lilly. Merck Canada lauded the step in a statement on Monday. "The initiative could help save millions of dollars over the first three years, and could improve access to prescription drugs for patients in the province," the company said https://reut.rs/2KgnWy7. Pfizer said it supported a well-controlled switch from a reference biologic drug to a biosimilar in an approved indication. "BC has taken an informed, inclusive and responsible approach to enhancing access to biosimilars...," Pfizer said. Most Canadian provinces have started limiting coverage of branded biologics for new patients, without forcing patients to switch. Even that has prompted backlash. Early this year, Janssen won a lawsuit against Quebec, forcing its public drug plan to resume coverage of Remicade for new patients. Because the ruling was based on the procedure Quebec took dropping the drug, most expect it to have little impact outside Quebec. It's not clear how it will affect future policy in the province, which has a public plan for all residents who lack private insurance. A spokeswoman for Quebec's Health Department said work was under way to "identify the best practices and measures that could be used to help biosimilars make up a greater part of the market," but that it would be premature to say more. ($1 = 1.3440 Canadian dollars) (Reporting by Allison Martell, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien and Sonya Hepinstall) By John O'Donnell FRANKFURT, May 28 (Reuters) - Britain's offshore territories the British Virgin Islands (BVI), Bermuda and the Cayman Islands were named in a study released on Wednesday as the most significant jurisdictions used by global companies to minimize their tax bills. Governments are stepping up efforts to recoup more tax from multinationals, with the European Commission forcing iPhone maker Apple to repay 13 billion euros after it used Ireland to cut its tax on European profits to almost zero. The Tax Justice Network, a group campaigning for transparency, said its study measured multinational activity in each country in 2017, as well as tax rates and loopholes. While tax evasion is illegal, companies are not forbidden from reducing their bills by taking advantage of loopholes such as moving profits through countries or territories that impose lower taxes, including those with close legal ties to Britain. A British government spokesman said tackling tax avoidance was a priority and that the country had "been at the forefront of international action to reform global tax rules." British overseas territories were committed to tax transparency standards, the spokesman added. Andy Burrows, CEO of Bermuda's Business Development Agency, said it met global standards. "Bermuda is not a place to hide capital," he added. John Christensen of the Tax Justice Network said the findings showed why Britain should not compete more aggressively on tax, as some politicians have suggested it could after it leaves the European Union. "This (low tax) model would involve ... engaging in a race-to-the-bottom on corporate tax rates," he said. OFFSHORE REFORM Officials from more than 100 countries, including Britain, India and the United States are gathering this week under the umbrella of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, which sets tax standards, to discuss reform. They are debating how countries can tax multinationals which route money through offshore centers, heralding changes that could make it easier to tax them outside their home country. Story continues Tax Justice Network's model assigns each country an index value, calculating this using its share of global cross-border investment, combined with an assessment of characteristics such as the number of tax loopholes it offers. It calculates that 2.1% of $45 trillion of total cross-border investment in 2017 went through the BVI, which are close to Puerto Rico and have a population of roughly 30,000. The Tax Justice Network analysis also highlights the Netherlands, Switzerland and Luxembourg, which it ranked fourth, fifth and sixth in helping to cut corporate tax bills. Unlike the British territories that have a zero tax rate for companies, those countries say they impose a levy of more than 20 percent. However the study found instances where companies paid less than 3 percent. Responding to the ranking, a Swiss government spokeswoman said it respected international standards, adding that a referendum this month voted to abolish tax privileges for companies that operate predominantly internationally. Luxembourg's finance ministry said it had been "fully committed in the global fight against fraud and tax evasion." The British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands did not respond to requests for comment, while the Dutch government declined to comment because it had not seen the study. A study published last year by the International Monetary Fund that showed how multinationals made $12 trillion of "phantom" investment in "empty corporate shells." https://cutt.ly/BunbaJ (Reporting by John O'Donnell; Editing by Alexander Smith) BOSTON -- Sean Kuraly and Brad Marchand scored in the third period for the last of four unanswered Boston goals as the Bruins rallied past the St. Louis Blues 4-2 in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final on Monday. Kuraly's goal came after St. Louis goaltender Jordan Binnington fumbled a shot from Zdeno Chara. Noel Acciari collected the puck in front of the net, and after a failed second attempt, dished to Kuraly, who slid it in to break a 2-2 tie at 5:21. Marchand added an empty-netter with 1:49 remaining. Binnington stopped 34 shots in the loss, including 27 across the final two periods. Tuukka Rask made 18 saves for Boston. The win was the Bruins' eighth straight, while the defeat dropped the Blues to 0-13 in finals history. Game 2 of the best-of-seven series is Wednesday in Boston. Trailing 2-0 and off to a sluggish start after 11 days between games, the Bruins caught fire in the second period to knot the score. Connor Clifton struck first, redirecting a pass from Kuraly just within the right post at 2:16 to make it 2-1. After Boston failed to convert on its first three power plays, Charlie McAvoy scored on the man advantage when his shot went off Alex Pietrangelo's stick and past Binnington for a tie game at 12:41. The rest of the contest was all Bruins, as they outshot the Blues 30-12 over the final 40 minutes. Prior to Boston's surge, St. Louis had been in control. Vladimir Tarasenko took advantage of a bad turnover by David Pastrnak to make it 2-0 at the one-minute mark of the second. The goal extended Tarasenko's points streak to seven games. Brayden Schenn scored the lone first-period tally for the Blues at 7:23 when a shot he ripped on Rask bounced off the netminder and was redirected back to him on passes from Jay Bouwmeester and Jaden Schwartz. Schenn then put it past Rask for his second goal in two games following a 13-game drought. The Bruins had two chances on the power play later in the first but couldn't convert, with Marcus Johansson coming closest when he rung the post on the first chance with the man advantage. --By Kyle Brasseur, Field Level Media Brussels (AFP) - Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday urged whoever succeeds her to get Britain out of the EU quickly but with a deal, as she met the bloc's leaders just days after announcing her resignation. May looked relaxed and smiled for the cameras as she arrived at a Brussels summit, the first one in many months that did not require her to wrangle with European colleagues over Brexit. They met to begin discussing filling the bloc's top job, a task complicated by European Parliament elections that shook up traditional alliances. May said that despite her announcement last Friday that she will quit, and Britain's impending exit from the bloc, she will play a "constructive role". And she had a message for her Conservative party colleagues vying to replace her back home, many of whom have raised the prospect of a potentially damaging "no deal" Brexit. "They will have to find a way of addressing very strongly held views on both sides of this issue and to do that and to get a majority in parliament will require compromise," she said. May resigned after failing repeatedly to get her EU withdrawal deal through parliament, forcing her to delay Brexit twice, most recently to October 31. Frontrunners for her job, notably Boris Johnson, have said Britain should not be scared to leave with no deal -- a message also delivered by Nigel Farage, whose populist Brexit party topped European Parliament elections. May admitted the elections, in which her Conservative party came fifth, were "deeply disappointing". "What it shows is the importance of actually delivering on Brexit," she told reporters "I think the best way to do that is with a deal but it will be for my successor and for parliament to find a way forward to get a consensus." Several of the contenders to replace May have called for her EU withdrawal deal to be renegotiated, but the bloc's leaders said this would not happen. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker told reporters in Brussels: "I was crystal clear that there will be no renegotiation." Burn-out has now ben recognised as an official condition [Photo: Getty] Between juggling to-do lists, dodging daily battles with your boss and power struggle woes, its little wonder that around 15.4 million days were lost last year due to work-related stress and anxiety. But burn-out is now an officially recognised medical condition, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Yep, according to the International Classification of Diseases, or the ICD-11, the organisations handbook which guides medical providers in diagnosing diseases, burn-out has been added to the catalog. It will become officially recognised globally in 2022, which will help enable medical experts diagnose someone suffering from the condition. READ MORE: Surprising signs you could be suffering from a mental health condition What is burn-out? The WHO describes burn-out as chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed, along with three defining symptoms: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; increased mental distance from one's job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job; and reduced professional efficacy Sounds like most of us, right? But according to experts there is a difference between feeling stressed and being burnt out. "Burn-out is the result of prolonged stress - the signs and symptoms present in the same way as stress but are more extreme, explains Dominique Antiglio, Sophrologist and author of The Life-Changing Power of Sophrology. For example, with stress, you may feel tired most days, however, with burnout, you are more likely to feel exhausted perhaps to the point where you cannot get out of bed. And burn-out is a lot more common than you might think. The Mental Health Foundation found that 74% of Brits had at some point, over 2018, felt so stressed they were "overwhelmed or unable to cope". Antiglio says that when you are stressed, it is natural to feel low on energy and motivation, whereas when you're suffering from burn-out, you can become completely detached from your daily activities. During times of stress, you might lose the joy of meeting with friends and family, but when you are burnt out, you may feel negative about meeting at all and avoid interaction, and unable to cope with your environment, she explains. And extreme stress doesnt just affect our mental wellbeing. It can have a bearing on our overall health too, with 62% of people reporting that stress has affected their health and 67% per cent of people believing their body reacts physically to stress, causing them to suffer more headaches, stomach discomfort, colds, skin flare-ups and sore throats. Story continues Burn-out can impact your sleep too. If you're having difficulty sleeping, it could progress to insomnia where you're so exhausted that you can no longer sleep, explains Antiglio. Emotional outbursts and inability to control anger can also be signs. Physically, burnout can manifest as palpitations, a tight chest, and a lack of energy and strength, difficulty breathing or spells of dizziness." READ MORE: How to spot if your child is struggling with a mental health issue Who is more at risk? According to Gerard Barnes, Chief Executive, Smart TMS individuals working in certain professions, where workers are more frequently exposed to disasters or other stressful events, may be at a higher risk of developing work-related psychological trauma or burn-out. However, as the UKs working environment increases in its exposure to stress and work-life imbalance, burn-out is now - more commonly - a combination of extreme tiredness, loss of engagement with the job and a sense of ineffectiveness or failure which is caused by chronic work related stress. Burn-out is form of extreme work stress [Photo: Getty] How can you prevent burn-out? Antiglio recommends that if you are feeling burnt out the first port of call should be to see your GP. But there are some other supporting methods you can try to help you feel more calm and relaxed including taking some time out. Easier said than done when your inbox is off the scale and your boss wants that report, like, yesterday, but sometimes you just need to take some time out. According to recent stats more than a fifth of Brits say they work more than 50 hours a week, leading to increase in cases of stress, anxiety and depression, so its vital we take time away from the office both physically and mentally. Create some space each day to rest, suggests Antiglio. Even if you're not doing anything special, it's the intent of booking that time in that puts you on the path to reclaiming your time." Antiglio also recommends giving sophrology a go. The relaxation technique uses breathwork, gentle movement and visualisation techniques to help build up your confidence, calm and energy again. If you are highly stressed, just 10 minutes of Sophrology a day can help you be more mindful of learning when to stop, rest and recharge so you can avoid progression to burnout, she says. The idea is that by helping you to become more mindful of your emotions and your mental and physical state you can more easily recognise when youre being pushed to your limits. This will allow you to better manage and spot the symptoms of burn-out to seek help early, Antiglio says. Emotional intelligence can also be an asset in terms of helping to manage your mental health. Having emotional intelligence means you are emotionally connected and aware of yourself, your needs, desires and limits, and are able to express them clearly, explains Antiglio. It protects you from burnout as you can gain perspective on your situation and set good boundaries." Gerard Barnes has some other suggestions for helping to combat burn-out at work. Physical exercise, hobbies that you find helpful for de-stressing, maintaining a disciplined and balanced work/life balance (leaving at 5pm/not bringing work home), confiding in peers, colleagues, spouses about work, spreading out holidays evenly during the year and maintaining a good level of self-care are all helpful ways to reduce/prevent work-related burn-out, he says. The Supreme Court released four opinions on Tuesday morning, including a decision on an abortion case, and took important actions on two other widely followed cases. In a per-curiam or unsigned opinion, the Justices ruled on Box v. Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky, the abortion case, without hearing arguments. The state of Indiana had argued that the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals incorrectly struck down two parts of a state abortion law. One provision required fetal remains to be buried or cremated; the other provision allowed the state to prohibit the knowing provision of sex-, race-, and disability-selective abortions by abortion providers. The Supreme Court accepted review on and reversed the federal appeals court ruling on the disposition of fetal remains, upholding the state law under rational basis review. But the Court denied review of Indianas appeal of the federal appeals court ruling that struck down bans based on abortion solely on the basis of sex, race, or disability. The Justices cited the lack of other federal appeals court rulings on the matter in declining to intervene. Justice Clarence Thomas wrote a concurring opinion, while Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg concurred and dissented in part. Among the three other opinions was a decision in Nieves v. Bartlett, where the Justices held by a 6-3 vote that Alaska state troopers had probable cause to arrest a man they confronted at a public event, and so the man could not pursue a First Amendment retaliatory arrest as a matter of law. The Supreme Court also accepted a case for arguments that it had previously considered, Hernandez v. Mesa, about the ability of the family of a Mexican teenager to sue a U.S. Border Patrol agent. The Mexican teen was shot and killed while standing on Mexico's territory by the patrol agent on the United States side of the border in El Paso, Texas. In the current case, the Justices will now consider if the agent can be sued under the Bivens precedent. In a 1971 ruling in Bivens v. Six Unknown Named Agents, the Court said that under certain circumstances federal officers could be sued for damages on Fourth Amendment grounds if they violated a persons clearly established constitutional rights while on duty. The Court also denied review for Doe v. Boyertown Area School District, a case about transgender bathroom access at public schools. The Third Circuit Court of Appeals had denied a lawsuit brought by six students, represented by the Alliance Defending Freedom, who objected to sharing bathrooms and locker rooms with transgender students on privacy grounds. The students attorneys wanted the Supreme Court to rule on the Third Circuits use of strict scrutiny, the highest standard of legal review, in evaluating their claims. Boyertown school officials had also argued that it had provided multi-user and single-user bathroom to address privacy concerns. By denying review, the Court left open the transgender bathroom rights issue for another day. Scott Bomboy is editor in chief of the National Constitution Center. Democratic presidential candidate and South Bend, Ind., Mayor Pete Buttigieg speaks at a fundraiser in Miami, May 20. (Photo: Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Democratic candidate Pete Buttigieg lambasted President Trump for considering pardons for accused or convicted war criminals over Memorial Day weekend. As Trump at the White House Friday told reporters that he hadnt made any decisions yet in issuing pardons, he pointed out that some of these soldiers are people that have fought hard and long. You know, we teach them how to be great fighters, and then when they fight, sometimes they get really treated very unfairly, Trump said. Theres two or three of them right now. Its very controversial. Its very possible that Ill let the trials go on and Ill make my decision after the trial. Buttigieg, the mayor of South Bend, Ind., and a military vet who served seven months in Afghanistan as a Navy Reserve intelligence officer, rebuked Trumps comments. The idea that being sent to war turns you into a murderer is exactly the kind of thing that those of us who have served have been trying to beat back for more than a generation, said Buttigieg in an interview with ABCs Martha Raddatz on This Week With George Stephanopoulos that aired Sunday. For a president, especially a president who never served, to say hes going to come in and overrule that system of military justice undermines the very foundations, legal and moral, of this country. Frankly, his idea that being sent to fight makes you automatically into some kind of war criminal is a slander against veterans that could only come from somebody who never served. As hed done last week, Buttigieg slammed Trump, who received five draft deferments, medical and academic, accusing the president of faking a disability and using his privilege to avoid serving in the Vietnam War. There is no question, I think, to any reasonable observer that the president found a way to falsify a disabled status, taking advantage of his privileged status in order to avoid serving, Buttigieg told Raddatz. You have somebody who thinks its all right to let somebody go in his place into a deadly war, and is willing to pretend to be disabled in order to do it. That is an assault on the honor of this country. Story continues One of the military members Trump is considering pardoning is Navy SEAL Edward Gallagher, who is scheduled to be tried at court-martial in June. Gallagher, who was turned in by members of his unit, is charged with multiple counts of murder, and in one alleged incident, is accused of shooting and killing an unarmed elderly man and a schoolgirl while deployed in Iraq. This wouldnt be the first time Trumps pardoned a military serviceman convicted of war crimes. In May, he granted clemency to former U.S. Army Lt. Michael Behenna, who was convicted of murdering a suspected Iraqi bombmaker after an unsanctioned interrogation in 2008. Last week, the Daily Beast reported that Fox and Friends co-host Pete Hegseth, a veteran and informal Trump adviser, has been privately lobbying Trump for months to issue those pardons. And last Saturday, the Trump administration made expedited requests for the paperwork needed to issue a number of pardons, according to the New York Times. And former military officers have since come out against Trumps expected plans. While Trump may think such actions honor the sacrifices of our veterans, they actually do a disservice to all law-abiding U.S. soldiers, endanger military members currently serving in hostile environments around the world and send a morally indefensible message to Americans and non-Americans alike, argued Glenn Kirschner, former assistant U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia who also spent six years as an Army Judge Advocate General. These contemplated pardons represent a degradation not a celebration of Memorial Day. Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, on CNNs State of the Union Sunday, said, If our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, if they are accused and found guilty of war crimes, we need to be very careful in that, because it is not OK to perpetrate war crimes. But Ernst, who is an Iraq War veteran, added, Even though they may serve in armed services, they still are human beings. And we do have a code that we have to operate under. So, I would just advise the president to be very careful, scrutinize, of course, each case individually, and, if its warranted, grant a pardon. If it is not and someone has committed a war crime, then a sentence should be served. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: By Steve Scherer OTTAWA, May 28 (Reuters) - Canada's Conservative Party leader Andrew Scheer on Tuesday said the number of migrants admitted every year should be in line with the best interests of the country, as he laid out his position on immigration policy ahead of an October national election. Scheer, 40, is leading Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in the polls with some five months to go before the general election. While the immigration debate in Canada has been much more muted than in the United States, Canadians are becoming more polarized and less tolerant, according to polls published in April by Ottawa-based Ekos Politics. Trudeau has gradually increased the number of migrants and refugees Canada takes in every year with the goal of accepting the equivalent of 1% of the population annually. Scheer, speaking outside of Toronto in a suburb where many new Canadians now live, said the Liberal government had damaged people's confidence in the country's immigration system, though he stopped short of saying numbers should be cut. The Liberals "have managed to undermine the long-standing consensus that immigration is indeed a positive for this country. Under Trudeau, a record-high number of Canadians believe that immigration should be reduced," he said. "As prime minister, I will set immigration levels consistent with what is in Canada's best interests. That number may change every year," Scheer said. It was the third of five promised policy speeches by Scheer, following one on foreign policy and another on the economy in recent weeks. In his speech, Scheer said there should be better screening for migrants entering Canada, but he rejected racism and extremism and said the country still needed immigrants, as it always has. "The history of immigration in Canada is fundamentally the history of Canada itself," he said in French. Promising more "fairness, order and compassion" in the immigration system, Scheer said: "We alone understand that immigration, done right, is good for the economy and good for jobs." Story continues Ahmed Hussen, the Liberal immigration minister, said in a statement that Scheer simply represented a return to the past. "After ten years of failed Conservative immigration policy, our Liberal government is restoring confidence in the immigration system," Hussen said. The Liberal government took over in 2015. "Canadians don't want to go back to the old days and old divisive ways of (former Conservative Prime Minister) Stephen Harper, and that's what Andrew Sheer has to offer." (Reporting by Steve Scherer Editing by Tom Brown) Ottawa (AFP) - A panel of politicians from Canada and several other nations criticized Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg for ignoring subpoenas Tuesday to appear at a hearing on protecting privacy and democracies online. The panel also adopted a motion to serve the pair with a formal summons to appear before the Canadian parliament's ethics committee should they ever travel to Canada. "Together, we represent over 402 million citizens," said Bob Zimmer, chair of Canada's privacy and ethics committee, which is hosting the meeting. "Mark Zuckerberg's unwillingness to appear before us and give personal testimony is further evidence that his public comments about working with lawmakers rings hollow." Although Zuckerberg and Sandberg were no-shows, Facebook's policy directors Kevin Chan and Neil Potts did appear and faced a grilling. The international committee on big data, privacy and democracy is holding hearings this week in Ottawa to consider ways to prevent social media abuses including privacy breaches, spreading fake news and elections meddling. It met for the first time last year in London, and this round included lawmakers from Argentina, Britain, Canada, Chile, Estonia, Germany, Mexico and Singapore. The panel invited testimony from representatives of Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Microsoft, Mozilla, Twitter and Google, as well as privacy and elections officials, ahead of recommending regulating social media companies in the wake of last year's Cambridge Analytica scandal. The now-defunct British political consulting firm is alleged to have accessed the personal data of 87 million Facebook users as it worked for US President Donald Trump's 2016 campaign. Canada's privacy commissioner Daniel Therrien last month accused Facebook of breaking the law for its role in the worldwide data scandal. He is now taking the company to court to force it to comply with Canada's privacy law. Story continues British lawmaker and panel member Damian Collins blamed the business models of social media companies for such data breaches and the spread of harmful content. "That's why we cannot rely on companies like Facebook to solve them," he said. Canadian lawmaker Charlie Angus added: "We are going to move forward with or without Mark Zuckerberg's input." Prior to the start of the hearings on Monday, Facebook, Google and Microsoft signed onto a declaration pledging to protect the integrity of Canada's October federal election -- including working to remove sham social media accounts and content. But other tech giants, including Twitter, have not signed the pledge. Critics noted that these undertakings are voluntary and as such are unenforceable. Ottawa (AFP) - Canada's parliament took a first step Tuesday toward approving a new continental trade pact with the US and Mexico, with the country's envoy to Washington saying full ratification may occur by the end of July. The step -- passing the ways and means motion to introduce an act to implement the trade agreement -- clears the way for Ottawa to present the actual treaty to parliament as early as Wednesday. Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said Ottawa intends to "move ahead with the ratification process as much as possible in tandem with our partners, particularly with the US." Canada's ambassador to Washington, David MacNaughton, who was in Ottawa to brief officials, told reporters he believes there is "a reasonable chance that the US Congress will pass this deal before the summer recess at the end of July." "And I think you know, as the minister said, we want to be in position where we can move in tandem with the United States and Mexico on this deal." The three nations signed the US-Mexico-Canada agreement (USMCA) -- which is to replace the 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement -- last year after months of negotiations. It must be ratified by all three countries in order to come into force. US President Donald Trump this month cleared a key stumbling block by removing contentious US tariffs on imports of Canadian and Mexican steel and aluminum, which both countries demanded as a pre-condition of moving forward on the trade pact. But Democrats in Congress continue to have concerns about workers' rights, dispute resolution and other issues. On Thursday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is scheduled to welcome US Vice President Mike Pence to Ottawa to discuss implementation of the treaty. (Reuters) - A portion of Canada's ruling Liberal Party is looking at Bank of England Governor Mark Carney as a possible successor to its current leader Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the Toronto Star reported on Tuesday, citing unnamed sources. Carney's current term ends in January 2020. In a recent conference call, a group of party insiders discussed Trudeau's diminished political prospects and how they could provide an early opportunity for Carney to succeed him, the report said. It did not detail how Carney - a former Bank of Canada governor would be able to replace Trudeau. According to one of the participants in the call, the group is assuming it will be difficult for Trudeau to win more than 140 seats in a federal election set for October, much less than the 170 required for a majority, the Toronto Star said. Trudeau's office declined to a Reuters request for comment. Trudeau and the Liberals are mired in accusations of interference in a corporate corruption case that triggered the resignations of two cabinet members - the prime minister's top adviser and the head of the federal civil service. Polls by Nanos Research and Ipsos put the official opposition Conservatives ahead of the Liberals but not by enough to guarantee they could form a stable government. (Reporting by Debroop Roy in Bengaluru and David Ljunggren in Ottawa; Editing by Shailesh Kuber) (Correct day of week in lead.) By Steve Scherer OTTAWA, May 28 (Reuters) - Canadian lawmakers fumed on Tuesday when Facebook Inc founder and Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg snubbed an invitation to Ottawa to testify on privacy and democracy before an international panel, slapping the billionaire with a standing summons. It is the second time in six months Zuckerberg and Facebook's Chief Operating Office Sheryl Sandberg have not showed up when invited to address a committee of international lawmakers investigating disinformation, privacy and how to protect democracy. Zuckerberg and Sandberg will be served with a formal summons should they "decide to come to Canada to go fishing," said Canada's Charlie Angus, a parliamentarian for the left-leaning New Democratic Party. If they do not comply, parliament could hold them in contempt, but it would be mainly a symbolic move. Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, a Canadian Liberal lawmaker, said Zuckerberg wrote an editorial published two months ago in which he said he was "looking forward" to discussing "with lawmakers around the world" the same issues being addressed by the committee. "If (Zuckerberg) was an honest individual in writing those words, he'd be sitting in that chair today," Erskine-Smith said. Kevin Chan and Neil Potts, both global policy directors at Facebook, attended the committee meeting and responded to questions. "Mark and Sheryl, our CEO and COO, are committed to working with government in a responsible manner. They feel that we have their mandate to be here today before you to engage on these topics," Potts said. Lawmakers from a dozen countries, including Canada, are on the so-called "International Grand Committee on Big Data, Privacy and Democracy." The committee members pelted the two Facebook representatives - as well as representatives from Google and Twitter - with questions about how they handle fake news and privacy. Story continues Canada will hold a general election in October and there is concern about potential interference, and Canadian security services are sounding the alarm about what they see as a potential weakness in political parties' cyber networks. Against this backdrop, Canada's relationship with Facebook has been rocky in recent months. In April, Canada's Privacy Commissioner Daniel Therrien said Facebook broke Canadian privacy laws when it collected the information of some 600,000 citizens, and he said he would seek a court order to force the social media giant to change its practices. Last month, Canada's government said the world's major social media companies, including Facebook, are not doing enough to help it combat potential foreign meddling in the national elections, adding that they may need to be regulated. (Reporting by Steve Scherer Editing by Nick Zieminski) The Washington Capitals partied hard after capturing the 2018 Stanley Cup, but center Evgeny Kuznetsov denied that he crossed the line. A video emerged Monday showing Kuznetsov seated next to a table with two lines of white powder with rolled-up U.S. dollar bills. Kuznetsov, however, gave a statement to Russian media outlet Sport Express, saying in part, "I don't necessarily have anything to do with what is going on around me. I never used drugs and have no intention to get into it. If there are any questions, I am ready to undergo testing. "I just came by the room where some people I knew stayed. When I saw what was going on there -- unfamiliar women, unknown substances on the table -- I called my friend and left as soon as I could." A Capitals spokesperson told the Washington Post, "We are aware of the video that surfaced on social media of Evgeny Kuznetsov. We are currently in the process of gathering facts and will have no further comment at this time." NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said Monday before the start of Game 1 of the Stanley Cup, according to USA Today, "We need a little more fact-gathering to know what our next steps are." Kuznetsov, 27, scored 12 goals and added 20 assists in the Capitals' playoff run to the 2018 title. That followed a 2017-18 season in which he compiled career highs in goals (27) and points (83) in 79 games. This season, Kuznetsov finished with 21 goals and 51 assists in 76 regular-season games. He added one goal and five assists as the Capitals lost in seven games to the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round of the playoffs. --Field Level Media goPoke. | Photo: Stephon V./Yelp Looking to uncover all that the International District has to offer? Get to know this Seattle neighborhood by browsing its most popular local businesses, from a grocery store to a sushi bar. Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top places to visit in the International District, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of neighborhood businesses. Read on for the results. 1. Uwajimaya Photo: Huy T./Yelp Topping the list is international grocery store Uwajimaya. Located at 600 Fifth Ave. South (between James and Weller streets), it's the most popular business in the neighborhood, boasting 4.5 stars out of 1,075 reviews on Yelp. Yelper Lyn M. wrote, "Located in downtown Seattle, Uwajimaya is a humongous Asian grocery store that has everything you can imagine. They sell a countless amount of Asian items from Japan, China, Philippines, Vietnam, Korea and other Asian countries that you can't get at any regular grocery store." 2. goPoke Photo: stephon v./Yelp Next up is Hawaiian spot goPoke, which offers poke and desserts, situated at 625 S. King St. (between South Maynard and South Sixth avenues). With 4.5 stars out of 660 reviews on Yelp, it's proven to be a local favorite. The eatery specializes in poke bowls, but also has items like mochi, shaved ice and tropical specialty drinks. 3. Young Tea Photo: Latifa S./Yelp Young Tea, a spot to score tea, coffee, smoothies and more, is another top choice. Yelpers give the business, located at 609 S. Weller St., Unit B (between South Sixth and South Maynard avenues), 4.5 stars out of 405 reviews. Yelper Preston M. wrote, "The tea at Young Tea is incredible and it's the focal point of their drinks. Sometimes boba can have a mild tea flavor, but Young Tea makes sure it is a highlight of the drink. It's nice to see a shop that focuses on the tea and not just adding artificial flavor." 4. Harbor City Restaurant Photo: Latifa S./Yelp Harbor City Restaurant, a dim sum and Cantonese spot that offers barbecue and more, is another high-traffic neighborhood go-to, with four stars out of 1,460 Yelp reviews. Head over to 707 S. King St. (between South Seventh Avenue and South Canton Alley) to see for yourself. Story continues "You can't go wrong with Harbor City for your dim sum craving! I love taking out-of-towners here, too, as they're always impressed by the grub. In addition to dim sum, they do have a regular menu with several Chinese dishes. But make dim sum a priority here," wrote Jacques I. 5. Maneki Photo: Wendy W./Yelp Check out Maneki, which has earned four stars out of 1,127 reviews on Yelp. You can find the sushi bar and Japanese spot at 304 6th Ave. South (between Main and Jackson streets). Maneki has been serving local customers for more than 100 years. Eater Seattle said, "The menu is comprehensive, with Japanese classics from agedashi tofu to takoyaki and soba to sushi." 6. Green Leaf Vietnamese Restaurant Photo: Peter C./Yelp And then there's Green Leaf Vietnamese Restaurant, a local favorite with four stars out of 1,099 reviews. Stop by 418 Eighth Ave. South (between King and Jefferson streets) to hit up the Vietnamese spot, which offers sandwiches and noodles, next time you're in the neighborhood. Green Leaf Vietnamese Restaurant has three locations throughout Seattle, and serves up traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho, fresh spring rolls and bot chien. 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. TOKYO, May 28 (Reuters) - Fifteen people, including eight primary school children, were injured in a suspected stabbing by a man in a park just outside Tokyo on Tuesday morning, national broadcaster NHK reported. Two children and an adult were without vital signs after the suspected stabbing in Kawasaki city, west of Tokyo, NHK said, citing city authorities. The suspect was detained on the spot and was badly hurt after stabbing himself in the shoulder, NHK said. (Reporting by Chang-Ran Kim Editing by Paul Tait) BEIJING (Reuters) - China has appointed its special envoy for North Korea, Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou, its ambassador to Japan, Chinese state media said on Tuesday. Kong, who was also held the South Asia portfolio at the foreign ministry, has been China's envoy on North Korea since 2017, though much of the diplomacy between Beijing and Pyongyang is handled by China's Communist Party, not the foreign ministry. It was not immediately clear who may assume Kong's North Korea role. Chinese newspapers said Kong would take up his new position in Japan on Thursday. China and Japan have sparred frequently about their painful history. China often accusing Japan of not properly atoning for its invasion of China before and during World War Two. Ties between the world's second- and third-largest economies have also been plagued by a long-running territorial dispute over a cluster of East China Sea islets and suspicion in China about Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's efforts to amend Japan's pacifist constitution. But the neighbors have sought to improve relations more recently, with Abe visiting Beijing in October, when the two countries pledged to forge closer ties and signed a broad range of agreements including a $30 billion currency swap pact. Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Japan next month for a G20 summit, though he is not expected to make a state visit at the same time, according to diplomatic sources. Kong, 59, is an ethnic Korean from the northeastern Chinese province of Heilongjiang, and a Japanese speaker. He has held senior positions at the Chinese embassy in Japan and he was China's ambassador to Vietnam from 2011 to 2014. Kong worked alongside the Chinese government's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, when Wang was Chinese ambassador in Tokyo from 2004-2007. (Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Robert Birsel) HONG KONG, May 28 (Reuters) - A senior official from China's state planner said the country would give priority to domestic demand for rare earths, but is willing to meet other countries' reasonable demand of for resources, state media report on Tuesday. Rising tensions between the United States and China have sparked concerns that Beijing could use its dominant position as a supplier of rare earths for leverage in the trade war between the two global economic powers. When asked whether China would restrict rare-earth exports to the United States as a countermeasure, the official from the National Development and Reform Commission did not give a direct answer, according to the report by the official Xinhua news agency. (Reporting by Hong Kong newsroom; editing by John Stonestreet) Beirut (AFP) - At least 21 civilians were killed on Tuesday as Syria's regime intensified its bombardment of the last jihadist stronghold in the country's northwest, a monitor said. Nine children were among the 21 killed in government fire on several towns in Idlib province and the countryside of neighbouring Aleppo, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Strikes on a busy street in the village of Kafr Halab, on the western edge of Aleppo province, killed at least nine civilians. An AFP photographer said the bodies of the victims were torn apart and several stores lining the side of the road were destroyed. The street was crowded with people out and about before breaking the daytime fast observed by Muslims during the holy month of Ramadan. A hospital in the Idlib town of Kafranbel was also hit by artillery shells, said David Swanson, a spokesman for the UN humanitarian office. "The facility is reportedly out of service due to severe structural damage," he told AFP. The hospital's administrative director Majed al-Akraa confirmed the attack. "The hospital is completely out of service," he said. "It was a strong attack. The generators and even my car caught fire," he told AFP. It follows two days of intensified regime bombardment on the region that killed a total of 31 civilians on Sunday and Monday, according to the Britain-based Observatory. Rescue volunteers and civilians were seen pulling dust-covered victims from the rubble of destroyed buildings in the wake of those strikes. Idlib and parts of the neighbouring provinces of Aleppo, Hama and Latakia are under the control of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a jihadist group led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate. The region is supposed to be protected from a massive government offensive by a September buffer zone deal, but the jihadist bastion has come under increasing bombardment by the regime and its ally Russia since late April. The Observatory says nearly 280 civilians have been killed in the spike in violence since then. Story continues More than 200,000 civilians have already been displaced by the upsurge of violence, according to the United Nations. The UN has warned an all-out offensive on the region would lead to a humanitarian catastrophe for its nearly three million residents. At least 20 health facilities have been hit by the escalation -- 19 of which remain out of service, the UN has said. Kafr Halab (Syria) (AFP) - Nine children were among at least 21 civilians killed Tuesday in regime attacks on Syria's northwest, a jihadist stronghold that has come under intensified bombardment in the past month, a monitor said. The strikes, some of which hit a hospital, followed two days of increased bombing by Damascus and its Russian ally on jihadist-dominated Idlib province and parts of neighbouring regions. Regime bombardment on the area Sunday and Monday killed a total of 31 civilians, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Tuesday's strikes on a busy street in the village of Kafr Halab, on the western edge of Aleppo province, killed at least nine civilians, according to the monitor. An AFP photographer said the bodies of the victims were torn apart and several stores lining the side of the road were destroyed. The street was crowded with people out and about before breaking the daytime fast observed by Muslims during the holy month of Ramadan. A hospital in the Idlib town of Kafranbel was also hit by artillery shells, said David Swanson, a spokesman for the UN humanitarian office. "The facility is reportedly out of service due to severe structural damage," he told AFP. The hospital's administrative director Majed al-Akraa confirmed the attack. "The hospital is completely out of service," he said. "It was a strong attack. The generators and even my car caught fire." - Hospitals hit - The United States, pointing the finger both at President Bashar al-Assad's government and its ally Russia, demanded an end to the air strikes. "Indiscriminate attacks on civilians and public infrastructure such as schools, markets and hospitals is a reckless escalation of the conflict and is unacceptable," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus told reporters in Washington. Idlib and parts of the neighbouring provinces of Aleppo, Hama and Latakia are under the control of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a jihadist group led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate. Story continues The region is supposed to be protected from a massive government offensive by a September buffer zone deal, but Damascus and Russian have stepped up their bombardment since late April, seizing several towns on its southern flank. Nearly 280 civilians have been killed in the spike in violence since then, according to the Observatory. Rescue volunteers and civilians were seen pulling dust-covered victims from the rubble of destroyed buildings in the wake of strikes on Sunday and Monday. The United Nations has warned that an all-out offensive on the region would lead to a humanitarian catastrophe for its nearly three million residents. UN deputy aid chief Ursula Mueller told the Security Council on Tuesday that some 270,000 people had been displaced by the fighting in Idlib since late April. Aid agencies have been forced to suspend their work in some areas, she said, adding that 22 hospitals and clinics had been hit by air strikes or shelling since April 28. "Further military operations will overwhelm all ability to respond," she warned. France claimed Tuesday it had an "indication" that a chemical attack had been carried out in the Idlib area, adding that "for now it has not been verified". The United States reported earlier this month that Assad's regime carried out a chemical "attack" on May 19 during its offensive in Idlib, threatening reprisals. International inspectors say Assad's forces have conducted a series of chemical attacks in the course of the brutal civil war, which has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since 2011. Syrian authorities have consistently denied the charges. Rio de Janeiro (AFP) - At least 40 inmates were killed in four jails in northern Brazil on Monday over an apparent gang dispute, authorities said, in the latest wave of violence to rock the country's severely overpopulated and deadly prison system. The victims appeared to have been killed by "asphyxiation," the Amazonas state government said in a statement, a day after 15 people were killed in one of the prisons. Officials had initially put the number of dead at 42, but later revised the number to 40. At least 25 of the victims were found in the Antonio Trindade Penal Institute near Manaus, the capital of Amazonas, where all four prisons are located. No guns or knives were used in the killings, which prison officials said appeared to have been sparked by a "rift between prisoners who belonged to the same criminal group and were involved in drug trafficking in the state." The federal government has dispatched reinforcements to boost security in the jails. "I just spoke with (Justice) Minister Sergio Moro, who is sending a prison intervention team to Amazonas so that he can help us in this moment of crisis," state Governor Wilson Lima said. An investigation launched into Sunday's mass killing at the Anisio Jobim Penal Complex, in which some of the prisoners were stabbed with sharpened toothbrushes during visiting hours, has been widened to include Monday's deaths. Four of those killed in the latest violence were found at the Anisio Jobim jail, which was also the scene of a prison rebellion that lasted almost 20 hours and left 56 people dead in January 2017. Another five were killed at the Provisional Detention Center for Men and six died at the Puraquequara Prison Unit. "The fact that the killings were coordinated across four separate prisons... suggests that this was a settling of scores," Robert Muggah, research director at the Igarape Institute think tank in Rio de Janeiro, told AFP. Story continues The latest violence in Amazonas, one of Brazil's most violent states, was "almost guaranteed to inspire retribution inside and outside the prison walls." - 'Appalling' conditions - Outbreaks of deadly violence are a recurring problem in Brazil's jails due to the lack of structural changes, experts said. "Prisons continue to be places of serious violations of human rights," said Juliana Melo, a professor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte. "The conditions are appalling, with a majority of prisoners poor, black, badly schooled and marginalized." Brazil has the world's third largest prison population after the United States and China, with 726,712 inmates as of June 2016, according to official statistics. The population is double the capacity of the nation's jails, which in the same year was estimated to be 368,049 inmates. The federal government had been expected to add another 115,000 inmates by the end of 2018, Human Rights Watch said in a recent report. Along with severe overcrowding and gang violence, riots and breakout attempts in Brazil's prisons are not uncommon. "Deaths in Brazil's prison system are shamefully recurrent," said Julita Lemgruber, a former director of Rio de Janeiro's penitentiary system and professor at Candido Mendes University. "They are recurrent because those who die are originally from the poorest sections of the population and are people who are not clear about their rights." While Muggah said there was no quick fix available for the system, the government needed to start by "drastically" reducing the number of pretrial detainees who currently make up 40 percent of the prison population. "Rather than imposing harsher sentencing laws and building new prisons, the public authorities need to enforce existing legislation -- including ensuring suspects are provided with hearings within 24 hours of their arrest," he said. BOGOTA, May 28 (Reuters) - A charitable initiative will help farmers in Colombia's southwestern mountains trade nearly 400 hectares (1,000 acres) of coca, the base ingredient in cocaine, for coffee, the growers' federation said on Tuesday, part of an effort to fight drug production. The program, a partnership between the Colombian government, Nestle's Nespresso and the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, will initially fund substitution in the area of El Rosario, in Narino province. Narino, which borders the Pacific Ocean and Ecuador, is a top coca-growing area. The 1,000 families who are part of the effort will initially produce 500 60-kg bags of coffee from their land, all of which will be purchased by Nespresso, participants said at the launch of the program in Bogota. "Families who before were tormented by illegal crops have here found a space to leave an illegal path and enter legality with a spectacular contractual agricultural framework where there is a buyer at a fixed and just price," Colombian President Ivan Duque said. Colombia has long been ranked as the world's top producer of cocaine, and figures compiled by the United Nations for 2017 showed the largest potential output since the organization's record-keeping began, with production of the drug at 1,379 metric tons. The government wants to destroy more than 200,000 hectares (494, 210 acres) of coca through voluntary substitution programs and forced eradication carried out by the military. Nespresso will sell the project's coffee in capsules in more than 800 of the company's stores around the world, chief executive Jean-Marc Duvoisin said. The company hopes the impact on farmers incomes will be "as positive as possible" Duvoisin said. The Howard G. Buffett Foundation will spend $2 million on efforts to improve farms and the area's infrastructure, including a health center, a warehouse as well as water and road works. Some coffee farmers battered by low international prices have begun to look to other crops, including coca, to provide alternative sources of income. The federation has floated the idea of some producer countries untethering their output from the benchmark New York futures market in order to get a better price, a move analysts say would likely send buyers elsewhere. (Reporting by Luis Jaime Acosta Writing by Julia Symmes Cobb Editing by Helen Murphy and Sandra Maler) DENVER (AP) More than 1,700 people walking on a University of Colorado campus were unknowingly photographed as part of a facial recognition research project funded by U.S. intelligence and military agencies, a newspaper reported. Professor Terrance Boult set up a long-range surveillance camera in an office window at the Colorado Springs campus. It captured more than 16,000 images of passers-by during the spring semesters of 2012 and 2013, The Denver Post reported Monday. The research project, which was first reported by the Colorado Springs Independent , received funding from U.S. intelligence and military agencies, including the Office of Naval Research and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Boult's research examined whether facial recognition algorithms could meet standards for use by the U.S. Navy. The research then aimed to improve the technology after Boult's team found it wasn't up to par. "The study is trying to make facial recognition better, especially at long range or surveillance applications," Boult said. "We wanted to collect a dataset of people acting naturally in public because that's the way people are trying to use facial recognition." The camera recorded people who were walking on the west lawn of the campus from about 490 feet (150 meters) away. The images resulted in 1,732 unique identities. The dataset was made publicly available online in 2016 and was taken down last April. Boult said he waited five years to release the dataset online to protect student privacy. The university's Institutional Review Board also examined the research protocol for the project, university spokesman Jared Verner said in a statement. "No personal information was collected or distributed in this specific study," Verner said. "The photographs were collected in public areas and made available to researchers after five years when most students would have graduated." Story continues The project raises questions about whether technological advancement is crossing ethical boundaries, said Bernard Chao, a University of Denver law professor, who teaches the intersection of law and technology. "It's yet another area where we're seeing privacy intrusions that disturb us," Chao said. ___ Information from: The Denver Post, http://www.denverpost.com Washington (AFP) - Tony Horwitz, author of the book "Confederates in the Attic" about US Civil War reenactors and other bestsellers, has died at the age of 60. Horwitz, who won a Pulitzer Prize with The Wall Street Journal before becoming an author of historical non-fiction, died suddenly in Washington while touring for his latest book. His publisher, Penguin Press, said Horwitz had died on Monday of an apparent heart attack. As a Wall Street Journal reporter, Horwitz won the 1995 Pulitzer Prize for national reporting for stories he wrote about income inequality and working conditions in low-wage America. His national bestseller "Confederates in the Attic" about the men and women who reenact battles from the 1861-65 Civil War was published in 1998. Horwitz' latest book, "Spying on the South: An Odyssey Across the American Divide," about the 1850s travels of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted -- designer of New York's Central Park -- was published this month. Among his other works were "Midnight Rising" about the pre-Civil War abolitionist John Brown and "Blue Latitudes" about Captain James Cook. A native of Washington, Horwitz, who was married to Geraldine Brooks, also a successful novelist, lived in Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts. Luanda (AFP) - Angola's government and the main opposition UNITA party on Tuesday traded accusations over the handover of the body of rebel chief Jonas Savimbi, who is due to be reburied in his hometown on June 1. The charismatic warlord, who fought Angola's socialist government in a 27-year civil war, was killed in a battle against the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) forces on February 22, 2002. His death paved the way for a peace deal that brought an end to one of Africa's longest and bloodiest conflicts, which erupted after independence from Portugal in 1975. He was buried the day after he died in Angola's eastern Moxico province. Six weeks after his death, his National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) movement signed a peace treaty with the MPLA government. The body was due to be handed over to UNITA officials on Tuesday but the party accused the government of backtracking at the 11th hour. "The government at the last minute changed what had been arranged," UNITA spokesman Alcides Sakala Simoes told AFP. He said the government first said the remains would be handed over in Luena, the capital of Moxico province where Savimbi was buried, and "after that they said Kuito and finally Andulo" in the country's centre. "We don't know where the body is... they are trying to humiliate UNITA and sabotage the programme," he said. "This will not help the process of national reconstruction." But minister of state Pedro Sebastiao, who is in charge of President Joao Lourenco's security, rubbished the claim. "UNITA has created a deadlock... They were not present in Luena" as arranged, he said. "In their absence, we have left the body in a military barrack." "It's total confusion," Helena Savimbi, one of the warlord's daughters, told AFP, accusing the government of "not respecting accords." Story continues The rebel leader is due to be re-buried in his hometown Lopitanga on June 1. UNITA has campaigned for Savimbi to be given a dignified funeral, and President Lourenco last year set up a commission to exhume and rebury his remains. Lourenco came to power in 2017 as head of the MPLA party, succeeding Jose Eduardo dos Santos, who ruled for 38 years. Stephen Unwin (left) and William McFall. Convicted killer Unwin had threatened to attack and rape a woman around a month before going on to murder Quyen Ngoc Nguyen, a Vietnamese mother-of-two, an inquest has heard.(PA) A convicted killer threatened to attack and rape a woman about a month before he murdered a "beautiful" Vietnamese mother-of-two, an inquest has heard. Nail technician Quyen Ngoc Nguyen was murdered by Stephen Unwin and William McFall on August 15 2017 before being dumped in her own car and set alight on Shiney Row, near Sunderland. The pair, who were convicted of the 28-year-old's murder and sentenced to full-life terms in April last year, had previously committed separate murders and met while in prison for those offences. They met Ms Ngoc Nguyen while working as handymen on several flats she was renting out, their trial at Newcastle Crown Court heard. Quyen Ngoc Nguyen, a Vietnamese mother-of-two, who was tortured and murdered by Unwin and McFall. (PA) An inquest into her death started on Tuesday at Sunderland Coroners' Court after coroner Derek Winter decided it was necessary to look into whether the police and probation service missed opportunities to prevent the murder. The court heard that Unwin, of Houghton-le-Spring, Sunderland, was released from jail on licence on December 20 2012, with Northumbria Police receiving 26 "items of intelligence" between his release date and the murder of Ms Ngoc Nguyen. Detective Inspector Edward Small told the court one of those items related to a complaint from a woman that, on July 2 2017, Unwin had sent her a Facebook audio message threatening to "smash her jaw in" and take turns with another man to rape her. The court heard that the complainant in that incident had mentioned to officers over the phone that Unwin had served prison time for murder. A police car near the scene where a woman's body was found in a burning car in Success Road, Shiney Row, near Sunderland. The officer who looked into the complainant's report the following day, Pc Sarah Strong, told the inquest she "can't remember" whether she was aware the alleged offender was a convicted murderer at the time. Pc Strong said it was probable that she would have only briefly read the force's report on Unwin before speaking with the complainant on July 3 2017, due to the time pressure caused by having to investigate numerous cases on a day-to-day basis. Story continues She told the inquest the alleged victim had not taken the complaint any further, and the investigation effectively ended then. Asked whether an alleged threat from a convicted murderer should have prompted more action, Pc Strong said: "Unfortunately these types of threats are not uncommon and are the kind of things that people do say on Facebook." Mr Small said a change in how the force logged "flags", meaning relevant intelligence, regarding prisoners out on licence would have meant that incidents like Unwin's alleged threat were not automatically passed to probation services. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Jeremy Hunt says no deal political suicide for Tories Albino panda caught on camera for first time Spice Girls fans demand refund over diabolical sound From 2013 the force operated a system where flags on an on-licence offender's record would be passed to probation officers through the force's Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (Mappa). But he said that, in a bid to reduce workload, from April 24 2015 warnings about an offender's behaviour would have to be reported to probation officers through a police officer at their own discretion. Mr Small said that, in December last year, Northumbria Police introduced a system whereby flags against an offender would be passed to a "multi-agency safeguarding hub", as well as to probation services through the investigating officer. Detective Chief Inspector Lisa Laverick told the inquest that, despite the change in 2015, a message on Unwin's report incorrectly said that flags would be passed on to probation through Mappa. Discussing the scope of the inquest, which is expected to last nine days, the coroner said he will consider whether the killers' levels of risk were properly assessed. A woman cycles past a Co-op supermarket in London. Photo: REUTERS/Hannah McKay The Co-operative Group has raised 300m through a unique bond to support Fairtrade goods and producers, the first ever issued by a retailer. The group said the oversubscribed bond was as a sign of enthusiasm for fairer trade, with twice as many financial institutions interested as there were bonds issued. The sterling bond meets the UNs Sustainable Development Goals definition of sustainable, and will pay 5.125% interest over five years. A Fairtrade mark promotes fairer trading conditions, workers rights and the environment, as well as guaranteeing producers a minimum price. The bond will help develop new Fairtrade products and fund marketing. The Co-op says it is committed to working with Fairtrade producers. In West Africa, it is investing alreading in Fairtrade Africas Womens Leadership School, and will work with women from seven farmer groups in Cote DIvoire. It will also be working with Traidcraft to bring new product categories such as rubber gloves into the market. READ MORE: Co-op sales soar after it buys up Nisa stores The group has said there is also sustained and growing enthusiasm among its consumers for Fairtrade. In 2018, the Co-op had a 6.3% increase in Fairtrade sales on the previous year, and has now cornered 21% of the UK retail market in Fairtrade products. Steve Murrells, chief executive of the Co-op, said: The popularity of this bond demonstrates confidence in the Co-ops growth strategy and in particular how weve placed sustainability at the heart of our future plans. Co-op was an early pioneer of Fairtrade, and now with the support of like-minded investors we can grow it further, opening up new opportunities and creating value for our members as well as producers and communities in developing countries. READ MORE: Investors flock to safety in bonds as Brexit crisis becomes Tory leadership crisis LONDON, May 28 (Reuters) - Actor and talk show host James Corden said on Tuesday he was returning to his British comedy television roots this Christmas, co-writing and starring in a one-off special of hit show "Gavin & Stacey." The 40-year-old, who since 2015 has hosted "The Late Late Show" in the United States, shared a picture on Twitter of a script for the Christmas episode of the award-winning series about a young couple's long distance romance. "Ruth Jones and I have been keeping this secret for a while... We're excited to share it with you. See you on Christmas Day," Corden wrote beside the photo, referring to his series co-writer and co-star. "Gavin & Stacey" followed the titular characters, respectively from Essex and Barry Island in Wales, who regularly speak to each other on the phone through work. They meet in London for a date and romance blossoms. Corden and Jones played their quirky friends Smithy and Nessa. "Over the last ten years we've talked a lot about Gavin and Stacey - where they might be today and what their lives might look like. And so in secret we took the plunge and wrote this one hour special," Corden and Jones said in a joint statement. "We've loved revisiting Barry and Essex again and bringing the characters back together has been a joy." "Gavin & Stacey" ran from 2007 to 2010, with a Christmas special airing in 2008. Fans of the show were quick to share their delight about the upcoming Christmas special on social media with the hashtags #Gavin and #Stacey trending on Twitter. Corden, who first gained prominence on British television, has starred in movies like "Into the Woods," "Trolls" and "Peter Rabbit." He gained fame in the United States with "The Late Late Show" on CBS. His "Carpool Karaoke" segment, where music stars join him in the car to belt out their hits, has proved particularly popular with audiences. (Reporting by Marie-Louise Gumuchian Editing by Alexandra Hudson) Photo credit: Getty Images From Esquire So, did everyone enjoy their holiday weekend? Was the weather lovely at the beach? I mention this only because, as we start this week, arrangements are being made deep in the heart of Camp Runamuck for everyone to have beachfront property someday in the future. From The New York Times: Now, after two years spent unraveling the policies of his predecessors, Mr. Trump and his political appointees are launching a new assault. In the next few months, the White House will complete the rollback of the most significant federal effort to curb greenhouse-gas emissions, initiated during the Obama administration. It will expand its efforts to impose Mr. Trumps hard-line views on other nations, building on his retreat from the Paris accord and his recent refusal to sign a communique to protect the rapidly melting Arctic region unless it was stripped of any references to climate change. And, in what could be Mr. Trumps most consequential action yet, his administration will seek to undermine the very science on which climate change policy rests. Oh, hell, why not? Someday, when we're gone and highly evolved bees are running things, they're going to be amazed that those ambulatory meatbags who preceded them simply decided to stupid themselves into extinction. Mr. Trump is less an ideologue than an armchair naysayer about climate change, according to people who know him. He came into office viewing agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency as bastions of what he calls the deep state, and his contempt for their past work on the issue is an animating factor in trying to force them to abandon key aspects of the methodology they use to try to understand the causes and consequences of a dangerously warming planet. As a result, parts of the federal government will no longer fulfill what scientists say is one of the most urgent jobs of climate science studies: reporting on the future effects of a rapidly warming planet and presenting a picture of what the earth could look like by the end of the century if the global economy continues to emit heat-trapping carbon dioxide pollution from burning fossil fuels. Story continues This. Makes. No. Sense. This. Is. Freaking. Insane. Personal pique as national policy in the context of an existential threat to life on this planet. Jealousy and grudge-holding as a governing philosophy. There's also something of a problem with the people tasked with carrying out this boneheaded negligence. Photo credit: Getty Images However, the goal of political appointees in the Trump administration is not just to change the climate assessments methodology, which has broad scientific consensus, but also to question its conclusions by creating a new climate review panel. That effort is led by a 79-year-old physicist who had a respected career at Princeton but has become better known in recent years for attacking the science of man-made climate change and for defending the virtues of carbon dioxide - sometimes to an awkward degree. Whatever does that mean? The demonization of carbon dioxide is just like the demonization of the poor Jews under Hitler, said the physicist, William Happer, who serves on the National Security Council as the presidents deputy assistant for emerging technologies. It's as though the president* just wandered through the Fox News green rooms and hired everyone he passed in the hall. And this Happer gentleman, who once was a distinguished scientist before he departed from this plane of existence? He has been judged to be unacceptably eccentric even by members of the administration* who are unacceptably eccentric by any standard. Mr. Happers proposed panel is backed by John R. Bolton, the presidents national security adviser, who brought Mr. Happer into the N.S.C. after an earlier effort to recruit him during the transition. Mr. Happer and Mr. Bolton are both beneficiaries of Robert and Rebekah Mercer, the far-right billionaire and his daughter who have funded efforts to debunk climate science. The Mercers gave money to a super PAC affiliated with Mr. Bolton before he entered government and to an advocacy group headed by Mr. Happer. Climate scientists are dismissive of Mr. Happer; his former colleagues at Princeton are chagrined. And several White House officials - including Larry Kudlow, the presidents chief economic adviser - have urged Mr. Trump not to adopt Mr. Happers proposal, on the grounds that it would be perceived as a White House attack on science. That horse is out of the barn and running at a track in Mongolia. Outside the United States, climate scientists had long given up on the White House being anything but on outlier in policy. But they worry about the loss of the government as a source for reliable climate research. It is very unfortunate and potentially even quite damaging that the Trump administration behaves this way, said Johan Rockstrom, the director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany. There is this arrogance and disrespect for scientific advancement - this very demoralizing lack of respect for your own experts and agencies. The amount of ineptitude and corrupt thinking that's going on at the lower levels of this administration* is vast and inexorable. Whoever comes in after this president* is going to be like the family who buys a lovely old mansion and after they live their for a year, the toddler stumbles onto the collection of human heads in the root cellar. The rot and corruption is deep here, and I'm not sure if anyone ever will get it all. Respond to this post on the Esquire Politics Facebook page here. ('You Might Also Like',) By Tom Miles GENEVA (Reuters) - Africa could be declared free of endemic "wild" polio early next year if a strain last seen in Nigeria almost three years ago does not resurface, the World Health Organization's Africa director said on Tuesday. Africa's last case of wild polio was recorded in Nigeria in August 2016. The country can now begin the months of paperwork needed before declaring that the virus is no longer circulating there, WHO Africa Regional Director Matshidiso Moeti told Reuters. "We are hopeful that the way things are going, sometime early next year it might be possible," Moeti said. There is no cure for polio, which attacks the nervous system and can cause irreversible paralysis within hours of infection. Children under five are the most vulnerable, but there is a vaccine which prevents the disease. However, traces of the vaccine used against "wild" polio are excreted by people who have been vaccinated, and in places with poor vaccine coverage and poor sanitation, that can cause outbreaks of "vaccine-derived" polio. The risk of vaccine-derived polio can be avoided by switching from using live oral polio vaccines (OPV) - which are highly effective, cheap and easy to deliver but contain live virus - to "inactivated" vaccines (IPV), which are not effective for fighting the wild type but contain no live virus. Use of OPV is being scaled down in a phased manner as countries eliminate circulating wild polio virus strains. If Africa is declared free of the wild virus, health officials will be able to switch to the inactive vaccine, removing the risk of more vaccine-derived cases. "That's the plan, that's the hope," Moeti said, adding that she was cautiously optimistic. Wild polio still circulated in Pakistan and Afghanistan, and an environmental sample was found in sewage in Iran earlier this month, but all recent African cases have been "vaccine-derived" polio. Story continues The WHO said on Tuesday that two more suspected cases of the disease had been reported in Central African Republic, which would be the 11th and 12th cases in Africa this year. Oliver Rosenbauer, a WHO spokesman for polio eradication, said that although the two children involved were paralysed, it was not yet confirmed that they had polio. (Reporting by Tom Miles; Editing by Ed Osmond and Dan Grebler) Paris (AFP) - A Saudi Arabian cargo ship arrived at a port in southern France on Tuesday to pick up munitions, according to an investigative website, rekindling criticism of weapons sales to the Middle Eastern nation which rights groups say are being used in the devastating war in Yemen. The shipment was revealed by the Disclose website, whose reporting on a similar shipment of French weapons earlier this month led to pressure that prompted Riyadh to renounce loading the weapons. Disclose said the new shipment involved munitions for French Caesar cannons that would be loaded at the Mediterranean port of Fos-sur-Mer, near Marseille. "We are checking this out," Defence Minister Florence Parly told lawmakers in Parliament who assailed the government for allowing the weapons sales. "And if this is indeed the case, would it be surprising? No, because we have an accord with Saudi Arabia," she said. But a representative in France for the Saudi shipping company involved denied any plans for a weapons shipment, saying the vessel was picking up only electricity production units from Germany's Siemens, for civil use. "The reports about a load of weapons or explosives is completely false," the official told AFP. Rights groups accuse Riyadh of using the French weapons against civilians in Yemen, where around 10,000 people have died since it began its offensive in 2015 with its ally the United Arab Emirates. Several French lawmakers called for a moratorium on arms sales to Saudi Arabia, similar to the freeze enacted by Germany last October in response to the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The ACAT association of Christians against torture said it had filed an injunction hoping to block the shipment, while a dockworker official at Fos-sur-Mer, Laurent Pastor, said the port "will not be used to load weapons or munitions." - 'It's a dirty war' - French officials say the weapons sold to Saudi Arabia have been used only for defensive purposes, rejecting claims that it is violating the Arms Trade Treaty that prohibits arms sales to countries if their use could lead to civilian casualties. Story continues "Yes, it's a dirty war, yes it has to be stopped, Saudi Arabia and the Emirates must stop" the fighting, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told France Inter radio earlier Tuesday. "Yes, we must be extremely vigilant with arms sales to these two countries, which is what we are doing," he said. But last month the Disclose website published findings from a classified French military note that said French weapons were being used in the Yemen war, contradicting the government's stance. Three Disclose reporters were subsequently questioned by France's domestic intelligence agency, a move that drew protests from press freedom advocates. 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. 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. Mizuna. | Photo: Janet D./Yelp Craving French food? Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the best high-end French restaurants around Denver, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of the best spots to meet your needs. 1. The Plimoth Photo: adam m./Yelp Topping the list is The Plimoth. Located at 2335 E. 28th Ave. in the Skyland, the Italian, French and New American spot is the highest rated high-end French restaurant in Denver, boasting 4.5 stars out of 287 reviews on Yelp. This spot was named one of the best restaurants of 2018 by 5280 Magazine. On the menu, look for main dishes like soft-shell crab in Thai peanut sauce and grilled bavette steak paired with vegetables. 2. Bistro Vendome Photo: Eve C./Yelp Next up is Lower Downtown's Bistro Vendome, situated at 1420 Larimer St. With four stars out of 703 reviews on Yelp, the French spot has proven to be a local favorite for those looking to indulge. This Parisian spot is spearheaded by executive chef Jennifer Jasinski, who boasts a culinary resume that includes San Francisco's Postrio and Las Vegas' Spago, according to its website. On the menu, look for dishes like seared Maine scallops and grilled Berkshire pork chop. 3. Mizuna Photo: adam d./Yelp Mizuna, a wine tasting room and French spot in Capitol Hill, is another pricey go-to, with four stars out of 262 Yelp reviews. Head over to 225 E. Seventh Ave. to see for yourself. This French eatery was named one of 18 restaurants in the state to earn the Colorado AAA four-diamond rating, which classifies a restaurant as "distinctive." On the menu, look for plates like Alaskan halibut and asparagus bisque. 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. 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 Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg Aktiengesellschaft's (VIE:BTS) P/E ratio could help you assess the value on offer. Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg has a price to earnings ratio of 8.33, based on the last twelve months. In other words, at today's prices, investors are paying 8.33 for every 1 in prior year profit. View our latest analysis for Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg How Do You Calculate A P/E Ratio? The formula for P/E is: Price to Earnings Ratio = Price per Share Earnings per Share (EPS) Or for Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg: P/E of 8.33 = 27.6 3.31 (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2018.) Is A High P/E Ratio Good? A higher P/E ratio means that buyers have to pay a higher price for each 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 When earnings fall, the 'E' decreases, over time. That means unless the share price falls, the P/E will increase in a few years. A higher P/E should indicate the stock is expensive relative to others -- and that may encourage shareholders to sell. Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg increased earnings per share by a whopping 33% last year. And it has bolstered its earnings per share by 2.5% per year over the last five years. So we'd generally expect it to have a relatively high P/E ratio. In contrast, EPS has decreased by 15%, annually, over 3 years. How Does Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg's P/E Ratio Compare To Its Peers? The P/E ratio indicates whether the market has higher or lower expectations of a company. The image below shows that Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg has a P/E ratio that is roughly in line with the banks industry average (8.3). Story continues WBAG:BTS Price Estimation Relative to Market, May 28th 2019 That indicates that the market expects Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg will perform roughly in line with other companies in its industry. If the company has better than average prospects, then the market might be underestimating it. I inform my view byby checking management tenure and remuneration, among other things. Don't Forget: The P/E Does Not Account For Debt or Bank Deposits Don't forget that the P/E ratio considers market capitalization. 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). Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg's Balance Sheet Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg has net debt worth a very significant 300% of its market capitalization. If you want to compare its P/E ratio to other companies, you must keep in mind that these debt levels would usually warrant a relatively low P/E. The Verdict On Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg's P/E Ratio Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg trades on a P/E ratio of 8.3, which is below the AT market average of 14.6. The company has a meaningful amount of debt on the balance sheet, but that should not eclipse the solid earnings growth. If the company can continue to grow earnings, then the current P/E may be unjustifiably low. Investors should be looking to buy stocks that the market is wrong about. As value investor Benjamin Graham famously said, 'In the short run, the market is a voting machine but in the long run, it is a weighing machine.' 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: Bank fur Tirol und Vorarlberg 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. ATHENS, May 28 (Reuters) - Greek and Dutch divers have removed two tonnes of discarded plastic fishing nets from the seabed in northern Greece, where they posed a risk to local marine life, including a rare endangered species of Mediterranean seahorse. The nets from the coastal region of Stratoni will be recycled into yarn to create products like socks, sportswear, swimwear, and carpets, according to the Healthy Seas organization, which works in the North, Adriatic and Mediterranean seas to clear waste. Since 2013 Healthy Seas has removed 453 tonnes of abandoned nets from the seabed. Because they are made of non-biodegradeable plastic, they could remain in the sea for hundreds of years. Virtually invisible, marine life can easily become entangled. Each year some 640,000 tonnes of fishing gear is left in the sea, Healthy Seas said. Greece is home to many endangered species, including sea turtles, seals and dolphins. (Reporting by Reuters TV Editing by Alexandra Hudson) Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Jamal Rushdy became the CEO of Collagen Solutions plc (LON:COS) in 2016. This report will, first, examine the CEO compensation levels in comparison to CEO compensation at companies of similar size. Next, we'll consider growth that the business demonstrates. Third, we'll reflect on the total return to shareholders over three years, as a second measure of business performance. This method should give us information to assess how appropriately the company pays the CEO. See our latest analysis for Collagen Solutions How Does Jamal Rushdy's Compensation Compare With Similar Sized Companies? At the time of writing our data says that Collagen Solutions plc has a market cap of UK15m, and is paying total annual CEO compensation of UK233k. (This is based on the year to March 2018). Notably, the salary of UK226k is the vast majority of the CEO compensation. We took a group of companies with market capitalizations below UK158m, and calculated the median CEO total compensation to be UK248k. So Jamal Rushdy is paid around the average of the companies we looked at. Although this fact alone doesn't tell us a great deal, it becomes more relevant when considered against the business performance. The graphic below shows how CEO compensation at Collagen Solutions has changed from year to year. AIM:COS CEO Compensation, May 28th 2019 Is Collagen Solutions plc Growing? On average over the last three years, Collagen Solutions plc has shrunk earnings per share by 4.1% each year (measured with a line of best fit). In the last year, its revenue is down -3.0%. Unfortunately, earnings per share have trended lower over the last three years. This is compounded by the fact revenue is actually down on last year. It's hard to argue the company is firing on all cylinders, so shareholders might be averse to high CEO remuneration. It could be important to check this free visual depiction of what analysts expect for the future. Story continues Has Collagen Solutions plc Been A Good Investment? With a three year total loss of 31%, Collagen Solutions plc would certainly have some dissatisfied shareholders. This suggests it would be unwise for the company to pay the CEO too generously. In Summary... Jamal Rushdy is paid around what is normal the leaders of comparable size companies. The company isn't growing EPS, and shareholder returns have been disappointing. Suffice it to say, we don't think the CEO is underpaid! Whatever your view on compensation, you might want to check if insiders are buying or selling Collagen Solutions shares (free trial). 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. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Cochin Shipyard Limited (NSE:COCHINSHIP) is a company with exceptional fundamental characteristics. Upon building up an investment case for a stock, we should look at various aspects. In the case of COCHINSHIP, it is a highly-regarded dividend-paying company that has been able to sustain great financial health over the past. In the following section, I expand a bit more on these key aspects. For those interested in digger a bit deeper into my commentary, take a look at the report on Cochin Shipyard here. Excellent balance sheet average dividend payer COCHINSHIP is financially robust, with ample cash on hand and short-term investments to meet upcoming liabilities. This indicates that COCHINSHIP has sufficient cash flows and proper cash management in place, which is an important determinant of the companys health. COCHINSHIPs debt-to-equity ratio stands at 3.7%, which means its debt level is low. Investors risk associated with debt is very low and the company has plenty of headroom to grow debt in the future, should the need arise. NSEI:COCHINSHIP Historical Debt, May 28th 2019 COCHINSHIP's high dividend payments make it one of the best dividend stocks on the market, and it has also been able to maintain it at a level in which net income is able to cover dividend payments. NSEI:COCHINSHIP Historical Dividend Yield, May 28th 2019 Next Steps: For Cochin Shipyard, there are three relevant factors you should look at: Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for COCHINSHIPs future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for COCHINSHIPs outlook. Historical Performance: What has COCHINSHIP's returns been like over the past? Go into more detail in the past track record analysis and take a look at the free visual representations of our analysis for more clarity. Other Attractive Alternatives : Are there other well-rounded stocks you could be holding instead of COCHINSHIP? Explore our interactive list of stocks with large potential to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing! 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! Stephen King is the CEO of PHSC plc (LON:PHSC). First, this article will compare CEO compensation with compensation at similar sized companies. Next, we'll consider growth that the business demonstrates. And finally we will reflect on how common stockholders have fared in the last few years, as a secondary measure of performance. The aim of all this is to consider the appropriateness of CEO pay levels. View our latest analysis for PHSC How Does Stephen King's Compensation Compare With Similar Sized Companies? According to our data, PHSC plc has a market capitalization of UK1.5m, and pays its CEO total annual compensation worth UK93k. (This figure is for the year to March 2018). Notably, the salary of UK90k is the vast majority of the CEO compensation. We took a group of companies with market capitalizations below UK158m, and calculated the median CEO total compensation to be UK248k. A first glance this seems like a real positive for shareholders, since Stephen King is paid less than the average total compensation paid by similar sized companies. However, before we heap on the praise, we should delve deeper to understand business performance. The graphic below shows how CEO compensation at PHSC has changed from year to year. AIM:PHSC CEO Compensation, May 28th 2019 Is PHSC plc Growing? On average over the last three years, PHSC plc has grown earnings per share (EPS) by 26% each year (using a line of best fit). It saw its revenue drop -10% over the last year. This demonstrates that the company has been improving recently. A good result. Revenue growth is a real positive for growth, but ultimately profits are more important. We don't have analyst forecasts, but you might want to assess this data-rich visualization of earnings, revenue and cash flow. Has PHSC plc Been A Good Investment? Since shareholders would have lost about 55% over three years, some PHSC plc shareholders would surely be feeling negative emotions. This suggests it would be unwise for the company to pay the CEO too generously. Story continues In Summary... PHSC plc is currently paying its CEO below what is normal for companies of its size. Considering the underlying business is growing earnings, this would suggest the pay is modest. Few would deny that the total shareholder return over the last three years could have been a lot better. We're not critical of the remuneration Stephen King receives, but it would be good to see improved returns to shareholders before the remuneration grows too much. This sort of circumstance certainly justifies further research, because the investment returns might still come in the future. Whatever your view on compensation, you might want to check if insiders are buying or selling PHSC shares (free trial). 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. Tarik Campbell (L) and Alexander Lees (R) who died after being involved in a collision with Stephen Lloyd last March. (SWNS) A drink driver who was twice the legal limit when he crashed into a motorbike which resulted in the deaths of two teenage boys has been jailed for six months. Stephen Lloyd, 60, turned into the path of an oncoming motorbike as he swerved across the road into his driveway. Tarik Campbell, 18, and his pal Alexander Lees, 19, were killed instantly in the horror crash on March 13 last year. Lloyd, formerly of Walsall, was found guilty of drink driving but cleared of causing death by careless driving after a week-long trial. He was jailed for six months and banned from driving for ten years and three months when he appeared at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Tuesday. Stephen Lloyd has been convicted of drink-driving, but found not guilty of causing the deaths of two teens in a collision in March last year. (SWNS) The court heard when Lloyd was breathalysed he was more than twice the legal drink drive limit of 35 microgrammes of alcohol per 100ml of breath. At the time of his death, Alexanders devastated parents paid tribute to their only son. They said: Alex loved life. He could never sit still and was always on the go, he lived every moment to the fullest. Standing at 6ft 4ins tall, he was a big character and always had amazing ideas. His main love was for motorbikes, but he also loved computers and his guitar. Words cannot begin to express how much we will miss him. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Jeremy Hunt says no deal political suicide for Tories Albino panda caught on camera for first time Spice Girls fans demand refund over diabolical sound Who knows what the future would have brought for our only son. He was taken, along with his friend Tarik far too soon. We love you and we miss you son." In a statement, Tariks family said: Tarik was a well-loved son, grandson, brother, cousin and nephew. As well as that he was a good friend and we couldnt be more proud of him. He was a hardworking and well-mannered young man and a huge role model for all of his siblings. He was a genuine kind-hearted person and his personality shined all the time. Tarik will be missed so much by everyone who knew him." KABUL, May 28 (Reuters) - Attacks on schools in Afghanistan increased almost threefold last year, making it increasingly difficult to ensure an education for children in many parts of the country, the United Nations children's fund UNICEF said on Tuesday. The agency, which promotes education and children's rights, said the number of attacks against Afghan schools jumped from 68 in 2017 to 192 last year. It was the first time since 2015 that a rise in attacks had been recorded. "Education is under fire in Afghanistan," said UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore. "The senseless attacks on schools; the killing, injury and abduction of teachers; and the threats against education are destroying the hopes and dreams of an entire generation of children." More than 1,000 schools across the country remain closed because of security threats from groups such as the Taliban and Islamic State, which have sought soft targets for attacks aimed at extending and consolidating their influence through intimidation. Although the Taliban have shifted from their previous opposition to all forms of girls' education, they have faced regular accusations of shutting down schools run in a way they do not approve. UNICEF said the use of school buildings as voter centers during last year's parliamentary election may have been a factor behind the rise in attacks. Afghanistan has a young and fast-growing population but about 3.7 million children, or nearly half of all school-age children, are not in formal education, UNICEF said. (Reporting by James Mackenzie Editing by Robert Birsel) CAIRO (Reuters) - Egyptian security forces have committed widespread abuses against civilians in northern Sinai, some of which amount to war crimes, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Tuesday. Egypt's ground and air forces last year launched a major operation in Sinai to crush Islamist militants behind a wave of attacks against civilians and security forces. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi ordered the operation after gunmen killed hundreds of worshippers at a Sinai mosque months earlier. The HRW report accused security forces of arbitrary arrests including children, torture, extrajudicial killings, collective punishment and forced evictions. An Egyptian military spokesman denied the report, saying it was based on undocumented sources. "The armed forces take into consideration the lives of civilians while implementing military operations against terrorist elements by conducting air raids outside population centers," the military said in a statement. New York-based HRW said its 134-page report was researched from 2016-2018 and based on interviews with 54 North Sinai residents and former government and military officials, as well as official statements. The watchdog documented what it said were 50 arbitrary arrests of residents, including 39 cases where the detainee was held incommunicado at an undisclosed location. Some died in custody because of ill-treatment and lack of medical care, HRW said. Reuters was unable to independently confirm its findings. The report also documented 14 cases of extrajudicial killing of detainees, using methods that match similar cases reported in a Reuters investigation published in April. A spokesman for Egypt's State Information Service said he would not respond before seeing the report. A spokesman for the Interior Ministry had no immediate comment. Conflict in the Sinai escalated after President Mohamed Mursi of the Muslim Brotherhood was toppled by the military in 2013. Tens of thousands of North Sinai's estimated 500,000 population have been forcibly evicted or fled while thousands have been arrested and hundreds secretly detained, HRW said. The military spokesman said the razing of houses along Egypt's border with Gaza was based on a cabinet decision issued in 2015 and that those affected had been compensated. A new town has been built with more than 10,000 housing units, he added. The HRW report called on the United States, which gives $1.5 billion annually in aid, and Egypt's other international partners to halt military and security assistance. HRW also documented abuses by Sinai Province, the local branch of Islamic State, which it said has attacked civilians, kidnapping, torturing and beheading perceived opponents. (The refiled story removes reference to the military in paragraph 11.) (Reporting by Cairo bureau; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne and Ed Osmond) By Timothy Gardner WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Politically appointed U.S. environmental officials last year overruled concerns of career scientists about air pollution in a Wisconsin county where U.S. President Donald Trump has pushed for a factory to be built by Foxconn Technology Co, newly released internal emails show. Trump has been a supporter of the Taiwanese technology giant Foxconn building a flat screen factory in Racine County Wisconsin, a project the company said could create up to 13,000 jobs. He announced the project at a ceremony in 2017 and has claimed it is proof of his ability to revive U.S. manufacturing. Former Wisconsin governor Scott Walker, a Republican, helped secure about $4 billion in tax breaks for the project. But Racine County has suffered some of the state's worst cases of smog, also known as ozone, pollution that causes premature deaths from lung and heart complications. The emails obtained by the Sierra Club and Clean Wisconsin under a freedom of information request show Trump administration officials, including then-administrator Scott Pruitt, overruled career EPA scientists to exempt Racine County from a list of counties that break smog standards. That has freed Foxconn from having to make millions of dollars in pollution control devices, if the project is eventually built. The Racine County case is latest example of the administration overlooking concerns flagged by agency scientists over other issues such as climate change or hazardous chemicals. "My background is in air pollution health effects and more specifically on acute exposures, so for me personally this is hard to digest and support," Lars Perlmutt, an EPA scientist, wrote to colleagues in an April email last year about pressure to make the exemption, one of the emails shows. Jenny Liljegren, a scientist in the air and radiation division in EPA's Midwest region, said she was "in disbelief" about the pressure from officials to make the exemptions. "I do not see a sound technical basis for the areas we are being directed to finalise in Wisconsin." Story continues In an exchange of emails with Liljegren, another EPA scientist, Eric Svingen, complained that Wisconsin "cherry picked" air quality data over wider areas of the state to suggest that emissions that form smog were not ultimately doing so within the Wisconsin borders. "These emails show is that the political leadership appeared to be injecting itself in this process in a way that's contrary to having fact-based decisions," said Janet McCabe, head of air quality at the EPA under former President Barack Obama. Foxconn did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In April the company, an Apple Inc supplier, said it was committed to its contract to build the flat screen plant and research facilities in Wisconsin. EPA spokesman Michael Abboud referred questions about the emails to a brief the agency filed May 10 in the case. The brief said that EPA considers a wide range of information in deciding which areas are in compliance with air pollution rules and that "each designation is intensely fact-driven." The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Illinois, which neighbours Wisconsin and could see greater levels of pollution, sued the EPA last year over the exemption in Racine County and the agency is also under pressure from lawsuits from environmental groups. In the May 10 brief, the EPA asked a federal appeals court to take another look at the smog exemption decisions under Pruitt, but until the court makes any ruling companies do not have to purchase the pollution equipment. (additional reporting by Valerie Volcovici in Washington; Editing by David Gregorio) Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Culti Milano S.p.A. (BIT:CULT) by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. This is done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward. 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 Culti Milano What's the estimated valuation? We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To begin with, we have to get estimates of 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 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. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 Levered FCF (, Millions) 0.40 0.50 0.58 0.65 0.72 0.77 0.82 0.86 0.90 0.94 Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 16.4% Est @ 12.36% Est @ 9.53% Est @ 7.55% Est @ 6.17% Est @ 5.2% Est @ 4.52% Est @ 4.04% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 11.14% 0.36 0.40 0.42 0.43 0.42 0.41 0.39 0.37 0.35 0.33 Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF)= 3.88m Story continues "Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 10-year government bond rate (2.9%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 11.1%. Terminal Value (TV) = FCF 2029 (1 + g) (r g) = 936k (1 + 2.9%) (11.1% 2.9%) = 12m Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV) = TV / (1 + r)10 = 12m ( 1 + 11.1%)10 = 4.08m The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is 7.96m. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. This results in an intrinsic value estimate of 2.57. Compared to the current share price of 2.76, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind. BIT:CULT Intrinsic value, May 28th 2019 Important assumptions The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the 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 Culti Milano 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 11.1%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.910. 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 Culti Milano, There are three important aspects you should further examine: Financial Health: Does CULT 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 CULT'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 CULT? 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 IT 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. By Gabriela Baczynska, Philip Blenkinsop and Michel Rose BRUSSELS (Reuters) - European Union leaders engaged in a first skirmish on Tuesday over who should become the next chief of the European Commission, giving themselves a short deadline to agree on the bloc's top jobs and a target of assigning half of them to women. Chancellor Angela Merkel was upset with French President Emmanuel Macron's public dismissal of Berlin's preferred candidate, a center-right German lawmaker Manfred Weber, as the 28 national EU leaders bargained behind closed doors over the bloc's new leadership for the next five years. "The key for me is for the people at the most sensitive positions to share our project and be the most charismatic, creative and competent possible," Macron told reporters as the summit ended in Brussels. "It is important for me to have gender balance, that we name two men and two women," he added. A bloc-wide election last week returned a European Parliament with a splintered center and gains by pro-EU liberals and Greens as well as eurosceptic nationalists and the far right, making agreeing a common agenda harder. Held once every five years, the European Union election means new people will take over key EU institutions, including the powerful executive Commission. Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel described the race as searching for the next "Mr. or Ms. Europe". Stripped of their longtime combined parliamentary majority, the center-right European People's Party (EPP) and the center-left Socialists & Democrats (S&D) would no longer able to decide on the next Commission head alone in the new EU assembly. They are looking for support from the liberal ALDE and the Greens, since the four groups together would command enough seats to approve or reject any nomination by the 28 heads. The national government leaders agreed to finalize their nominations at their next gathering due on June 20-21, in time for the new EU chamber's first sitting due on July 2nd. "We agreed that it is essential for us to show we are capable of action and so we want by the June summit... to have... our proposal for the position of Commission president," Merkel told a news conference. Merkel said Macron needed to be realistic and take into account the fact that the EPP, which has nominated Weber for the Commission, would remain the biggest group in the new chamber. Luxembourg's Jean-Claude Juncker steps down on Oct. 31 as the head of the Commission, which acts as the EU's competition watchdog, monitors member states' budgets and proposes policies from climate change to tech regulation. Other big roles up for grabs later this year include the head of the European Parliament and the European Central Bank (ECB), the bloc's foreign policy chief and the head of the European Council who represents national government leaders. Both France and Germany have ambitions to have one of their own run the ECB after the current president, Italian Mario Draghi, leaves at the end of October. Neither is likely to secure both the bank and the Commission, officials say. The EU would risk an institutional logjam if talks drag on, leaving it unable to make pivotal policy decisions at a time when it faces a more assertive Russia, China's growing economic might and an unpredictable U.S. president. WOMEN Macron pushed against Weber, listing EU competition commissioner, Denmark's Margrethe Vestager, the bloc's Brexit negotiator, center-right Frenchman Michel Barnier, and Dutch Social Democrat Frans Timmermans as appropriate candidates. Spain and Sweden backed Timmermans, while Ireland and Croatia spoke for Weber. Luxembourg and Slovenia supported Vestager, one of few women in the running. "Gender balance means at least two women," said the summit chairman, Donald Tusk, who will now negotiate between capitals to come up with a list of names for approval by the 28 leaders. Eastern capitals demanded geographical balance in awarding the prominent Brussels roles. Poland and Hungary would strongly oppose Timmermans as he led the EU's rule of law probes against them in his current Commission vice-president role. Unanimity is not required though it is hard to see a candidate succeeding against the will of more than just a handful of leaders, as that would risk damaging their future cooperation and stalling the EU's decision-making. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, also mooted as a possible contender in the obscure recruitment process, said Tuesday's meeting was about "content rather than people", with focus on policy priorities, including climate change and migration. Merkel and Macron are due to hold more talks in the German town of Aachen on Thursday but one country already bound to see its EU representation diminished is Italy. Rome now holds three of the bloc's top five jobs but its eurosceptic swing and debt problems have left it isolated in the EU, with Spain seeking to claim the space. (Reporting by Jan Strupczewski, Philip Blenkinsop, Gabriela Baczynska, Alastair Macdonald, Francesco Guarascio, Robin Emmott, Daphne Psaledakis, Jean-Baptiste Vey, Michel Rose and Peter Maushagen; writing by Gabriela Baczynska; editing by Andrew Cawthorne and Grant McCool) By Alastair Macdonald BRUSSELS (Reuters) - European Union leaders meet in Brussels on Tuesday, two days after an election to the European Parliament returned a more fragmented pro-EU center and stronger nationalist groups. They will discuss the succession to key EU jobs over the coming months. Here is a timeline to change at the top: May 28 - Leaders party groups in the newly elected Parliament meet at 0800 GMT and hold news conference at 1000 GMT. They are expected to endorse a call for national leaders to nominate a lead candidate, or Spitzenkandidat, from a winning party to run the executive European Commission. The first placed center-right EPP wants Manfred Weber, the center-left Frans Timmermans. So far, four pro-EU parties seem to have struggled to adopt a common position. This afternoon, various national leaders are holding private talks. For example, liberal French President Emmanuel Macron and Socialist Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez lunch with the liberal Belgian and Dutch leaders and Portugal's Socialist premier. Center-right leaders including German Chancellor Angela Merkel will also meet together. EU summit chair Donald Tusk, who will run negotiations on jobs, will also have several meetings. From 1600 GMT, the 28 leaders, including outgoing British Prime Minister Theresa May, meet over dinner to debate jobs. June - Parliamentary groups will negotiate among themselves and with Tusk, seeking to defend the legislature's demand that government chiefs nominate a party candidate to succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as president of the executive European Commission. Many national leaders -- foremost among them the powerful Macron -- are resisting that idea. June 20-21 - Leaders aim to agree on Juncker's successor and that of European Central Bank President Mario Draghi. They may also agree who will succeed Tusk himself as president of the European Council and EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini. July 2-4 - New Parliament convenes in Strasbourg. It should choose its own president to succeed Antonio Tajani on July 3 -- another job in the mix for the bargaining over key EU posts. July 16-18 - Parliament sits again in Strasbourg. This is the earliest it could endorse a new Commission president. July-August - If a Commission president is agreed, he or she would then build an executive team, taking one commissioner from each member state and giving them portfolios. If there is no deal on a successor, then more summits may be needed. In 2014, Tusk and Mogherini were nominated at a summit in late August. September - New commissioners face hearings in Parliament. Some, notably those nominated by eurosceptic governments in the likes of Italy, Hungary or Poland, could hit resistance but MEPs can only block the Commission as a whole, not individuals. Oct. 22-24 - Parliament due to vote in Strasbourg to confirm the new Commission as whole. It can withhold its endorsement. Oct. 31 - Britain is due to leave, deal or no deal -- though a further delay to Brexit is also possible. Nov. 1 - The Commission is due to take office. If it has not been confirmed by Parliament, Juncker's team would carry on. Draghi's successor is due to take over the ECB in Frankfurt. Dec. 1 - Tusk's successor due to take office at the Council. (Reporting by Alastair Macdonald; Editing by Ed Osmond) European Central Bank official Vitas Vasiliauskas discussed the advantages of adopting a central bank digital currency (CBDC) at a conference on Monday, saying it could positively impact financial stability. According to Vasiliauskas, a CBDC could serve as a medium of exchange, similar to money issued by central banks today. He suggested CBDCs could work as retail, or wholesale-only currencies, or perhaps both." For instance, digital tokens could be used to transfer value between external or retail parties as a form of bank-issued digital cash. Or, he noted a wholesale CBDC could contribute to (or replace) a central banks reserves. Vasiliauskas also pointed out that some central bank-operated wholesale payment systems are in need of replacing as theyre at the end of their technological life cycles. The amount of cash in circulation is declining in some countries. This could mean that one dayeven if it seems like a distant prospectevery single person will have to have an account with a private entity just to make payments, said Vasiliauskas. Still, he stressed a CBDC is neither a conventional reserve account nor a conventional decentralised crypto asset, hinting at potential push-back from both communities. BRUSSELS (Reuters) - European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said on Tuesday that the European Union was not willing to renegotiate the withdrawal deal struck with the British government, but rejected three times by Britain's parliament. A number of the candidates to succeed Theresa May as British prime minister have said they believe the bloc should reopen negotiations. "I will have a short meeting with Theresa May, but I was crystal clear. There will be no renegotiation," Juncker said before a meeting of EU leaders in Brussels. (Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop) Former Gurkha soldier Nirmal Purja remains on target to conquer the world's 14 highest mountains in a record-breaking seven months despite death-defying queues on the biggest peak of them all. Waiting for more than seven hours last week to get to the top of Everest and then back to the safety of his camp -- in a pile-up that he documented in a photo that has gone viral -- injected doubts into Purja's minute-by-minute strategy. "My plan was to climb Everest and Lhotse as fast as possible, breaking my own previous record but that day, I was stuck in traffic," Purja told AFP back in the comfort of Kathmandu. In 2017, the ex-British special forces member climbed the two mountains in a record 10 hour and 15 minutes. "I sat four hours on the way up and three and half hours on the way down and that kind of made me (worry) like I won't be able to achieve the record," he said. In the end, the phenomenal 35-year-old climber completed the 8,848-metre (29,029-foot) Everest, Lhotse at 8,516 metres and the 8,485-metre Mount Makalu -- three of the world's five highest mountains -- in 48 hours and 30 minutes, according to his backup team. Also a record: he tackled the three peaks in five days. - Speed climber - This season, Purja has climbed six mountains above 8,000 metres in 31 days. But the jams on Everest have been blamed for at least four of the 11 climber deaths on the peak. The iconic photo Purja snapped of the queue of mountaineers leading up to the summit has triggered calls for better management of the crowds and screening of climbers to avoid fatalities. "Of course there are certain worries -- you are cold and you cannot move," said Purja. Other climbers said that some of those who attempted to climb Everest were grossly unprepared. Nepal issued a record 381 Everest permits this season and a short weather window resulted in some teams waiting several hours in the "dead zone", running out of oxygen and risking fatal exhaustion. Story continues Purja was better prepared. A teenager when he joined the British Gurkha service, he was inspired to start Project Possible by his 2017 climbs. But tackling the world's 14 highest mountains in seven months was radically ambitious. Purja says he will complete the mission by November. In the 1980s, it took Polish climber Jerzy Kukuczka seven years, 11 months and 14 days to climb the 14 peaks. South Korean climber Kim Chang-ho managed the feat in about a month less without supplemental oxygen. "When I first said I would climb all 14 highest mountains in seven months, everyone said it was impossible. I am doing this to prove the power of the concept of possible," he said. Purja is to leave for Pakistan within a week to climb the next five mountains, including K2 and Nanga Parbat, while raising funds for his expeditions. He expects his next climb to start in June. "I absolutely believe I am one in eight billion people who can do this ... in terms of decision-making ability, stamina, endurance. everything," he said. Riga (AFP) - The Latvian parliament will on Wednesday choose the Baltic state's next president, with long-time European Court of Justice judge and former Soviet dissident Egils Levits the frontrunner. The German-educated 63-year-old, is the candidate of the governing coalition parties for the largely ceremonial role and has the backing of at least 55 members in the 100-seat parliament. Two other candidates are in the running to replace outgoing president Raimonds Vejonis, who is not seeking a second term as head of the NATO and eurozone member nation, which has a large Russian minority. The Latvian president is commander in chief of the armed forces and appoints the prime minister and ambassadors. The head of state also has the right to propose and return legislation to parliament, as well as to dissolve parliament. Levits and his parents, Latvian patriots of Jewish origin, were expelled from the Soviet Union in 1972 because the KGB viewed them as a threat to the Communist regime. The family settled in Germany, where Levits obtained law and political science degrees before returning to Latvia a decade later and entering politics. Levits wrote the country's 1990 declaration of independence following the end of the Soviet occupation. He later served as a member of parliament, justice minister and ambassador to Switzerland, Hungary, Germany and Austria. In 1995, he was appointed to the European Court of Human Rights before taking on his current position as a judge at the European Court of Justice in 2004. Addressing criticism he has been abroad most of his life, Levits said: "I spend all my free time in Latvia with my family, away from the European Court in Luxembourg." "I love to go on walking tours through the countryside, meeting regular people. That way I'm sure to know Latvia deeper and more personally than most of the Riga-dwelling politicians," he told Latvijas Radio1. A group of opposition parliamentarians have nominated 43-year-old Juris Jansons, a lifelong public servant and Latvia's current human rights ombudsman, as their candidate for president. Story continues Anti-establishment populist lawmakers are backing Didzis Smits, 44, an economist and former head of the fisheries association who has been a lawmaker since last year. All three candidates have dismissed political cooperation with Russia, whose annexation of Crimea and the subsequent conflict in eastern Ukraine have spooked the Baltic region. Latvia has been governed since January by a coalition of the centre-right parties New Unity and National Alliance, the liberal Development/FOR!, the New Conservatives and some members of the populist KPV LV party. By Sijia Jiang HONG KONG (Reuters) - Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei is reviewing its relationship with FedEx Corp after it claimed the U.S. package delivery company, without detailed explanation, diverted two parcels destined for Huawei addresses in Asia to the United States and attempted to reroute two others. Huawei told Reuters on Friday that FedEx diverted two packages sent from Japan and addressed to Huawei in China to the United States, and attempted to divert two more packages sent from Vietnam to Huawei offices elsewhere in Asia, all without authorisation, providing images of FedEx tracking records. Reuters could not verify the authenticity of the records. Shown the images of the tracking records, FedEx declined to make any comment, saying company policy prevented it from disclosing customer information. Huawei said the four packages only contained documents and "no technology," which Reuters was unable to independently confirm. Huawei declined to elaborate on why it thought the packages were diverted. "The recent experiences where important commercial documents sent via FedEx were not delivered to their destination, and instead were either diverted to, or were requested to be diverted to, FedEx in the United States, undermines our confidence," Joe Kelly, a spokesman for Huawei, told Reuters. "We will now have to review our logistics and document delivery support requirements as a direct result of these incidents," the spokesman said. Huawei acknowledged to Reuters that one package originating in Vietnam was received by Friday, and the other was on its way, according to FedEx tracking records provided by Huawei. FedEx spokeswoman Maury Donahue told Reuters the packages were "misrouted in error". She acknowledged in an earlier statement that the U.S. Department of Commerce had recently added Chinese companies and affiliates to its "Entity List", but did not elaborate. Story continues FedEx was not requested to divert the packages by any other party, she added. "This is an isolated issue limited to a very small number of packages," said FedEx, referring to the four parcels affected. "We are aware of all shipments at issue and are working directly with our customers to return the packages to their possession." FedEx China on Tuesday apologised on its Chinese social media account for the "mishandling" of Huawei packages and confirmed there was no "external pressure" to divert packages. The U.S. Department of Commerce did not reply to a request for comment on whether the incident might be related to its move on May 16 to add Huawei to the so-called "Entity List," preventing it buying certain items from U.S. companies without U.S. government approval. FORMAL COMPLAINT The United States believes Huawei, the world's largest telecom network gear maker leading the way in creating the next generation of wireless networks known as 5G, is a potential espionage threat because of its close ties with the Chinese government. Huawei has repeatedly denied it is controlled by the Chinese government, military or intelligence services. The issue has become a flashpoint in an escalating trade battle between the world's two biggest economies. The two packages sent on May 19 and May 20 from Tokyo, intended for Huawei in China, ended up in Memphis, Tennessee, the headquarters of the U.S. company, by May 23, according to images of FedEx tracking records shown to Reuters by Huawei. The two packages originating from Hanoi on May 17, destined for Huawei's Hong Kong and Singapore offices, were held up after arriving in local FedEx stations in Hong Kong and Singapore on May 21 for "delivery exception," according to other images Huawei showed Reuters. According to FedEx's website, the status "exception" means an unexpected event is preventing delivery of a package, for example a customs delay, a holiday, or no one being available to accept delivery. FedEx declined to give details on what the exception was in this case. According to Huawei, a FedEx customer service representative in Vietnam replied to their inquiry on May 22 when two expected packages did not arrive on time, saying: "Please be informed that FDX SG received notification from FDX US to hold and return the package to US. Hence, the shipment is not deliver to consignee and now being hold at FDX station and under process to RTS it (return to sender)," the representative wrote in broken English, according to an email Huawei showed to Reuters. Huawei told Reuters that both Vietnam packages were sent by its shipping agent, a contractor to Huawei whom it did not identify, and contained urgent documents. It said the shipping agent refused permission for FedEx to send the packages to the United States and instructed they be returned, Huawei told Reuters. Reuters could not confirm that. Huawei told Reuters it only learned that the Japan-originated packages, which were sent by suppliers that it did not identify, had been diverted to the United States after checking FedEx's tracking record. The company said it has lodged a formal complaint with China's postal regulator, which it said is investigating the incident. China's State Postal Bureau did not return a request for comment. (Reporting by Sijia Jiang in Hong Kong; Additional reporting by Lisa Baertlein in Los Angeles, James Pearson in Hanoi, Ankit Ajmera in Bengaluru and Yawen Chen in Beijing; Editing by Bill Rigby) By William James and Kylie MacLellan LONDON, June 12 (Reuters) - Several of the contenders to replace Prime Minister Theresa May have said Britain should leave the European Union on Oct. 31, even if that means a "no-deal" Brexit. So can British lawmakers do anything to stop the country leaving the bloc without a transition deal? May has resigned to let someone else work out the way forward on Brexit, but her successor will be bound by most of the same constraints that saw her fail three times to get parliamentary ratification for a deal. Votes so far this year show there is no single plan that commands a majority in parliament, which is still arguing over when, how, and even whether, Britain should follow through on the public's decision in a 2016 referendum to leave the EU. However, there has been majority agreement in parliament against leaving the bloc without an exit agreement defining interim arrangements on issues like customs and citizens' rights. So, if the next prime minister is unable to break the deadlock in parliament or decides to actively target a no-deal exit, what could lawmakers do to prevent a no-deal departure? POLITICAL PRESSURE Elected members of the 650-seat parliament have a number of ways of expressing their opinion, but few of those have the power to force the government to change course. Those opposed to a no-deal exit could seek an emergency debate, or use debating time allocated to opposition parties to vote on a motion expressing their view. If supported by a majority this would create political pressure for a government rethink, but would not bind the prime minister to change policy. LEGISLATIVE LEVERS If a majority in parliament want to stop a no-deal exit without the government's support, they will need to change the law to somehow prevent it - by demanding that the prime minister either delay the exit or cancel Brexit altogether. Earlier this year lawmakers found a way to seize control of the parliamentary agenda and passed a law, despite government opposition, that mandated May to seek more time from the EU. Story continues This alone would not have prevented a no deal, as the EU has to agree to any extension. Only legislating to revoke the Article 50 exit notification would stop Brexit happening. Ultimately, May decided she would seek an extension anyway, which resulted in the new departure date of Oct. 31, but it showed lawmakers can find ways to impose their will if they have a majority. A fresh attempt to take control of the parliamentary agenda was rejected by a vote of 309-298 on June 12, but opponents have vowed to keep trying. If the government was actively pursuing a no-deal strategy, lawmakers would not be able to hijack the legislative process to pass their own law and would need to come up with an alternative way to stop it. While there is little precedent for this, parliamentary rules have proven flexible in recent months and speaker John Bercow, who wields considerable influence over procedural matters, has been supportive of attempts to block no deal. Two of the candidates to replace May have mooted the possibility of suspending parliament to force through a no-deal exit. That has provoked widespread criticism from all parties, including rival leadership candidates. END GAME Parliament has the power to collapse the government through a vote of no confidence. This would require some Conservatives, or the allied Democratic Unionist Party, to rebel. One lawmaker, former attorney general Dominic Grieve, said he would be prepared to give up his allegiance to the Conservative Party and vote against the government to stop a no-deal exit. While losing a confidence vote would halt policymaking and almost certainly force a change in leadership, it would not automatically change the legal fact that Britain will cease to be an EU member on Oct. 31. Preventing a no deal would still require action by a successor government, appointed either after a general election or by the formation of a new governing coalition in parliament. (Editing by Frances Kerry) Photo: A Baked Joint/Yelp Spending time in Mount Vernon Square? Get to know this Washington neighborhood by browsing its most popular local businesses, from a homemade bread and breakfast spot to a Michelin-star restaurant. Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top places to visit in Mount Vernon Square, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of neighborhood businesses. Read on for the results. 1. A Baked Joint Photo: rachel b./Yelp Topping the list is breakfast and brunch spot A Baked Joint, which offers coffee and tea and sandwiches. Located at 440 K St. NW (between North 4th and North 5th streets), it's the most popular business in the neighborhood, boasting 4.5 stars out of 1,586 reviews on Yelp. The Baked Joint features organic, homemade bread, baked daily, as well as breakfast options, such as quiche; savory oatmeal with kale, smoked ham, caramelized onions and a poached egg; and toast with a variety of toppings. 2. Busboys And Poets Photo: briona l./Yelp Next up is traditional American, breakfast and brunch and Mediterranean spot Busboys and Poets, situated at 450 K St. NW (between North 4th and North 5th streets). With four stars out of 1,983 reviews on Yelp, it's proven to be a local favorite. The restaurant and bookshop, which has other locations in the area, serves up eggs Benedict three ways, pancakes and French toast. Brunch specialties include Iraqi corned beef hash and shrimp and grits. 3. Shouk Middle Eastern, vegan and kosher spot Shouk is another top choice. Yelpers give the business, located at 655 K St. NW (between North 7th and North 6th streets), 4.5 stars out of 549 reviews. Shouk's specialty is modern Israeli street food, including falafel, a cauliflower burger, mushroom shawarma and hummus salad. It also serves up sweets, such as lemon date balls and chocolate cardamon cookies. 4. Kinship Photo: michael u./Yelp Kinship, a New American spot that offers desserts and more, is another much-loved neighborhood go-to, with 4.5 stars out of 360 Yelp reviews. Head over to 1015 7th St. NW (between North New York Avenue and North Mount Vernon Place) to see for yourself. Story continues Chef Eric Ziebold's Michelin-star restaurant features a five-course dinner menu, and desserts, such as rhubarb frangipani cake, passion fruit curd tart and strawberry panzanella. 5. RPM Italian Photo: rpm italian/Yelp Check out RPM Italian, which has earned four stars out of 946 reviews on Yelp. You can find the Italian spot at 650 K St. NW (between North 7th and North 6th streets). Chef Doug Psaltis, who ran the kitchen at Michelin-star Country restaurant in New York, brings modern cuisine to RPM Italian, with homemade pasta, slow-roasted meats, seafood risotto and classics, such as eggplant parmesan. 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. By Alastair Macdonald BRUSSELS, May 28 (Reuters) - European Union leaders meet in Brussels on Tuesday, two days after an election to the European Parliament returned a more fragmented pro-EU center and stronger nationalist groups. They will discuss the succession to key EU jobs over the coming months. Here is a timeline to change at the top: May 28 - Leaders party groups in the newly elected Parliament meet at 0800 GMT and hold news conference at 1000 GMT. They are expected to endorse a call for national leaders to nominate a lead candidate, or Spitzenkandidat, from a winning party to run the executive European Commission. The first placed center-right EPP wants Manfred Weber, the center-left Frans Timmermans. So far, four pro-EU parties seem to have struggled to adopt a common position. This afternoon, various national leaders are holding private talks. For example, liberal French President Emmanuel Macron and Socialist Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez lunch with the liberal Belgian and Dutch leaders and Portugal's Socialist premier. Center-right leaders including German Chancellor Angela Merkel will also meet together. EU summit chair Donald Tusk, who will run negotiations on jobs, will also have several meetings. From 1600 GMT, the 28 leaders, including outgoing British Prime Minister Theresa May, meet over dinner to debate jobs. June - Parliamentary groups will negotiate among themselves and with Tusk, seeking to defend the legislature's demand that government chiefs nominate a party candidate to succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as president of the executive European Commission. Many national leaders -- foremost among them the powerful Macron -- are resisting that idea. June 20-21 - Leaders aim to agree on Juncker's successor and that of European Central Bank President Mario Draghi. They may also agree who will succeed Tusk himself as president of the European Council and EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini. Story continues July 2-4 - New Parliament convenes in Strasbourg. It should choose its own president to succeed Antonio Tajani on July 3 -- another job in the mix for the bargaining over key EU posts. July 16-18 - Parliament sits again in Strasbourg. This is the earliest it could endorse a new Commission president. July-August - If a Commission president is agreed, he or she would then build an executive team, taking one commissioner from each member state and giving them portfolios. If there is no deal on a successor, then more summits may be needed. In 2014, Tusk and Mogherini were nominated at a summit in late August. September - New commissioners face hearings in Parliament. Some, notably those nominated by eurosceptic governments in the likes of Italy, Hungary or Poland, could hit resistance but MEPs can only block the Commission as a whole, not individuals. Oct. 22-24 - Parliament due to vote in Strasbourg to confirm the new Commission as whole. It can withhold its endorsement. Oct. 31 - Britain is due to leave, deal or no deal -- though a further delay to Brexit is also possible. Nov. 1 - The Commission is due to take office. If it has not been confirmed by Parliament, Juncker's team would carry on. Draghi's successor is due to take over the ECB in Frankfurt. Dec. 1 - Tusk's successor due to take office at the Council. (Reporting by Alastair Macdonald; Editing by Ed Osmond) LONDON, May 28 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - The number of children who are married, pregnant, laborers, die violently or miss out on school has fallen by almost 30% to 690 million since 2000, when nations endorsed global development goals, the charity Save the Children said on Tuesday. Singapore, Sweden, Finland, Norway and Slovenia topped the rankings of a report examining health, education, child marriage and child labor practices in 176 countries, while South Sudan, Mali, Chad, Niger and Central African Republic scored worst. Here are some facts on how children fare today compared to 2000: * About one in four of the 2.3 billion children alive today under the age of 18 have been robbed of their childhoods by child marriage, early pregnancy, exclusion from education, sickness and malnutrition. * Deaths of children under five have halved to 5.4 million from 9.8 million in 2000. * Child homicides have fallen by 17% since 2000 to 85,000 murders of young people under the age of 20 in 2016. * The number of stunted children fell by 49 million since 2000 to 149 million. However numbers have risen in Africa, which accounts for four in 10 children globally who are stunted due to poor nutrition and repeated infection. * An additional 130 million children are now in school, 60% of whom are girls. Some 262 million children remain out of school. * There are 94 million fewer child laborers, with eastern Europe and Central Asia making the most noticeable gains. But one in 10 - or about 152 million - children still work, and nearly half of those live in Africa. * The number of child brides dropped by nearly 11 million to 37 million, with South Asia halving its early marriage rates. If all girls finished high school, an extra 51 million child marriages could be prevented by 2030. * There are 13 million teenage births each year today, falling by 3 million since 2000. * The number of children living in a warzone more than doubled to 420 million since 1995 - about one in five children - with those in countries like Afghanistan, Central African Republic, Iraq and Syria worst affected. Sources: Save the Children, United Nations children's agency UNICEF, United Nations refugee agency UNHCR, United Nations cultural agency UNESCO. (Writing by Lin Taylor @linnytayls, 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 and slavery, property rights, social innovation, resilience and climate change. Visit http://news.trust.org to see more stories) LONDON (Reuters) - Nigel Farage's Brexit Party romped to victory in the European Parliament election, with both Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservatives and the opposition Labour Party losing support across the country. WHAT DO THE PRELIMINARY RESULTS SHOW? The Brexit Party came out on top and smaller pro-European Union parties also gained ground, while the Conservatives and Labour hemorrhaged votes to parties that took unequivocal positions for or against Brexit. WHO GETS ELECTED? The United Kingdom is divided into 12 electoral regions - nine in England, and one each for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. In total it will elect 73 MEPs (Members of the European Parliament). WHAT SYSTEM IS USED? In Britain, parties submit a list of candidates for each region and voters select a party rather than an individual candidate, unless they are backing an independent. As the seats are allocated to a party, they in turn allocate them to candidates starting from the top of their list. In Northern Ireland, as votes are counted the candidate with the least votes in eliminated and their votes redistributed. This is repeated until there are only the required number of candidates left for the number of seats available. ISN'T THE UK LEAVING THE EU? Britain is taking part in the elections because it delayed the date of its exit from the EU, but its MEPs will leave the parliament when Brexit happens. Sources: UK Electoral Commission, European Parliament, regional election officials (Writing by Guy Faulconbridge and Kate Holton; Editing by Catherine Evans) Not all diamond sellers have sparkling reputations. The Federal Trade Commission is ticked off at jewelers who are calling their glittery wares eco-friendly and sustainable and misrepresenting simulated diamonds as lab-created or mined ones or lab-created diamonds as mined stones. Wedding season is soon upon us, and with that, lots and lots of diamonds. That means it's important to understand that buying diamonds is no longer as simple as the Four Cs carat, cut, color and clarity. Now, it's Mother Nature versus science and marketing. Mined diamonds are the traditional stones dug out of the ground, while lab-created diamonds have the same chemical and physical attributes as mined diamonds but are made in a laboratory using carbon, heat and pressure, according to FTC attorney Robert Frisby. Simulated diamonds might resemble traditional diamonds in some ways, like appearance, but are not chemically the same and may not be as hard or as durable. Marcelle Harari shows a selection of diamonds at Cellini Jewelers, owned by Leon Adams, in Midtown Manhattan, NY. Attention, pet owners: Petco offering a free upgrade to artificial-free pet food with May 18-19 trade-in events Where do you live? Homes for sale: Here are the most affordable ZIP codes in the US Old-school diamonds are the most expensive of the three categories, and that's where the glitter of marketing comes in. A dishonest jeweler may present the other types as mined and charge more, but unlike other fakes like a Chanel purse with entwined Cs that actually are Gs the distinction can rarely be detected by the naked eye. "It's very difficult for a layperson to distinguish between lab-grown and mined," Frisby said. "Simulated ... may depend on the type of simulate it is. Some are tougher than others." In warning letters the FTC sent last month, eight jewelry marketers were told not to use the word "diamond" to describe a simulated or lab-created stone "unless that word is immediately proceeded by a clear and conspicuous disclosure that the product is not a mined stone," the FTC said. The rule also applies to other precious stones, like emeralds and rubies, and pearls. Story continues Some jewelry buyers specifically want lab-created or simulated diamonds, due to concerns that mining can damage the environment and the risks of what are called blood diamonds stones originating from war-torn areas, where the mines finance the conflicts and may utilize slave or child labor. Lab-created and simulated diamonds' lower prices also make them attractive to certain shoppers. The impact diamond mining may have on the environment is what prompts some disreputable jewelry vendors to use advertise their non-mined merchandise as "eco-friendly," "eco-conscious" or "sustainable." The FTC said it's highly unlikely that companies making those claims can substantiate them. "You have to have a reasonable basis for whatever claim the advertiser is making," Frisby said. The Diamond Producers Association, whose members include De Beers, said in a statement that it "welcomes the FTCs warning to synthetic diamond manufacturers against misleading consumers with their marketing tactics. This warning is an important step toward transparency and consumer protection." Michael Lewyn didnt think to ask about what kind of diamonds he was looking at when he went shopping for an engagement ring in the winter. "Mined" had no meaning to the 55-year-old Manhattanite. I dont even think I knew that word, he said. All I knew was she said, Get a diamond, and I get a diamond. Lewyn checked out a couple of national jewelry store chains whose ads he vaguely recalled and then walked through New York Citys famous Diamond District. He snapped photos as he went, which he sent to his fiancee, Helen Teitelbaum. The stores that sold some of the rings she liked he then looked up on Yelp to check their online reviews. The end result was a $2,000 solitaire ring, a bit less than one carat, that Lewyn presented to her in front of the New York Public Library. If youre looking for more of an investment, you probably want a higher level of scrutiny and probably want to spend more time researching about diamonds, Lewyn said. I read a little, but to me, it was not too interesting. To Leon Adams, owner of Cellini Jewelers in Midtown Manhattan, stories about precious-stone cons are upsetting. He occasionally sees them first-hand when someone brings in a piece of jewelry purchased elsewhere to examine, like the woman who paid more than $30,000 for a pair of ruby earrings only to have him inform her that they were synthetic gems. "It obviously gives the entire industry a bad reputation," he said. "With today's technology, it's really become somewhat of a problem for the industry and consumers." May 16, 2019, New York, NY. Marcelle Harari shows a selection of diamonds at Cellini Jewelers, owned by Leon Adams, in Midtown Manhattan, NY. The FTC is ticked off at jewelers who are presenting their glittery wares as eco-friendly or sustainable and misrepresenting simulated diamonds as lab-created or mined ones or lab-created diamonds as mined ones. 5/16/2019, Photo by Jennifer S. Altman, Freelance ORG XMIT: JA 138027 fake sustainable 05/17/2018 [Via MerlinFTP Drop] That diamonds are such large-ticket items makes the scams all the more upsetting to victims. Adams advises buying only from jewelers who've been in business for a while and who have a return policy, paying with a credit card in case you have a dispute and avoiding making purchases online where you can't physically examine it. "You would have to have some training in gemology to loupe the stone to see the internal structure to determine if it's naturally occurring," he said, explaining how a scam is uncovered. "In the best-case scenario, were talking thousands of dollars at a minimum." Follow USA TODAY reporter Zlati Meyer on Twitter: @ZlatiMeyer This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fake diamond alert: If yours are simulated or made in a lab, you can't call them mined Santuario (Colombia) (AFP) - High in the lush green mountains of western Colombia where they grow the soft beans from which the world's finest coffee is cultivated, growers are up in arms over the giveaway prices being fixed a world away on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Producers here say they are selling at a loss, blaming the crash devastating their industry on stock market speculators who have forced prices down to an all-time low. "We are paid a pittance," says Gustavo Echeverry, 50, expressing the frustration of many of the 15,000 or so inhabitants of this coffee-growing center nestled in the mountains. It's a far cry, they say, from the "Fair Trade" coffee globally certified to ensure it is grown under equitable conditions, so that farmers aren't exploited. Some growers around the village of Santuario have been forced to rip up their crops to grow something -- anything -- else. The coffee growers' lot worsened with the last harvest, which produced beans pitted by a plague of beetles. Quality suffered, adding to an international price slump that has forced growers to sell below cost. Producing a 12.5-kilogram (27.5-pound) bag of coffee costs the equivalent of $22. But wholesalers pay Echeverry an average $21 a bag. "It's an unfair trade," he quips bitterly. Ramon Jimenez has spent his life growing coffee on his San Antonio plantation nearby, but says the industry is on its last legs here. "We never stop thinking that soon we may no longer exist as coffee growers," says Jimenez. The Jimenez family has been growing coffee here for three generations. Ramon's 19-year-old grandson Javier says he grew up among the coffee trees on the plantation. "I dream of taking over the farm, of succeeding my father and my grandfather, but if the crisis continues like this... I will have to look elsewhere, maybe even leave for the United States." Colombia is the third largest coffee producer in the world, after Brazil and Vietnam, and the number one producer of high-quality soft beans. Story continues In Colombia, 540,000 families owe their livelihoods to the coffee sector. It's the country's top export, ahead of oil and minerals. But in Santuario, "Coffee plantation for sale" signs posted up at the local offices of the National Federation of Coffee Growers (NFC) have sent a chill through the local industry. Others, like Echeverry, have opened their farms up to tourism as a way to keep afloat. - Ready to leave - Tens of thousands of people have been displaced from these mountains over the tumultuous half century of Colombia's armed conflict. Santuario's mayor, Everardo Ochoa, says the exodus starts again every time coffee hits a crisis. The international reference price for coffee has dropped from a high of $1.50 per pound in 2016 to less than a dollar -- a historic low. According to the International Coffee Organization (OIC), production -- measured in 60-kilogram bags -- in 2018/19 will hit 167 million bags, higher than global consumption of 165 million. The only reason coffee production still exists to any extent in Santuario is because many producers have "coffee in their veins," and can't do anything else, says Echeverry. -'Ripping it up'- Back in 1993, Diego Henao was forced into a life-changing decision in a bid to save his two plantations, totaling 400,000 trees. He emigrated. Entering the United States illegally, he stayed 13 years and earned a Green Card permanent residency before returning full-time to run his plantation. Since then, in lean times like now, he spends four months a year in the US working as a house painter, and then injects his savings back into his coffee trees so as not to borrow from banks. Now 53, he says: "I'm very close to being happy, if it weren't for the coffee prices." The "Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia" is recognized on the UNESCO world heritage list, but there are fewer and fewer coffee trees. Gabriel Ochoa, 70, has finished struggling with his: "I ripped them up... I've put down sugar cane instead and I don't regret it." Fernando Morales-de La Cruz founded the Coffee for Change organization to campaign for more equitable distribution of the industry's profits. He says a pound (half a kilogram) of green coffee equals 55 cups on the high street. But multinational corporations pay only 90 cents, which trickles down to just 0.02 cents per cup to the producer. That's "a quarter of what he received in 1983," says Morales-De la Cruz. Fearing the social impact of falling prices, the Bogota government has announced $80 million in aid and the NFC is seeking to extricate producers from the New York Stock Exchange, which has set prices for decades. But to do that, the NFC says it needs to join forces with soft bean producers in Central America and Africa whose quality would allow them to negotiate their own prices. Such a radical change will take time. Meanwhile, up in the hills of Santuario, the next harvest comes in October-November. If nothing changes by then, more farms will go on sale. London (AFP) - Anti-EU populist Nigel Farage admitted Monday that his Brexit Party lacked policies beyond pulling Britain out of Europe and would now consult supporters for a way to seize the UK parliament. Farage's brand new election vehicle seized on voter discontent with Brexit's repeated delays to win nearly 32 percent of the ballot in the European Parliament poll. The ruling Conservatives finished fifth with nine percent -- their worst performance since 1832 -- and the main opposition Labour Party was also punished for not clearly spelling out its Brexit stance. Farage only registered his party in February but succeeded in leveraging his reputation as one of the architects of the 2016 referendum that triggered Britain's attempt to split from the EU. He attributed his success Sunday to outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May's failure to turn Brexit into a reality by its original March 29 deadline. "When people woke up on March 31 and realised that we haven't left the European Union, that's when in large numbers they became ready to vote for another party," he said. EU leaders have agreed to delay the departure date until October 31 to avoid a no-deal breakup that threatens to wreck economic havoc on both sides of the Channel. "If we don't leave on October 31, then the Brexit Party will go on to a general election and stun everybody there too," Farage said. But he conceded that he does "not yet" have a policy beyond Brexit. "We've got an awful lot to do -- a lot to do in terms of policy," he told a group of reporters. "We've got 110,000 registered supporters who've paid their A25 ($32, 28 euros) and what we are going to do is consult directly with them," he said. "We are going to form policy in direct communication with them." - 'Wholesale political reform' - The two main parties will want to avoid a snap general election after the drubbing they received in the European vote. Story continues Some political analysts believe the more likely outcome is of Britain heading to a second referendum that could either help settle the impasse or at least push back a chaotic breakup. Farage's vision of a grassroots approach to politics reflects the populist style of parties such as Italy's Five Star Movement (M5S) of Luigi di Maio. "Unlike any other party, not all of us here agree on every single thing," he said of his new crop of European Parliament members. "But it's pretty clear already that the main agenda is going to be wholesale political reform in this country," Farage said. "Very clearly, we are going to be a party that's not going to be on the side of the multinationals." Farage's immediate aim is to test his party's strength by contesting a June 6 by-election in the eastern England city of Peterborough. "We will give it our best shot," he said. Good morning. I spent some of the Memorial Day weekend reading The Future of Capitalism by Paul Collier. The book is not newit was published in late 2018. But it was called to my attention last week, first by former Arconic/Alcoa/Siemens CEO Klaus Kleinfeld, and then by Bill Gates, who put it on his short list for summer reading. Its the best diagnosis Ive read to date of what ails Western society, or what Collier calls WEIRDWestern, educated, industrial, rich, developed. And it offers some interesting, if not always convincing, solutions. Collier points to three great fissures that have emerged: one geographic (the regions against the metropolis), one educational (the have-mores versus the have-lesses), and one global (the developed versus the left behindparticularly Africa, which has been the subject of much of Colliers work). At the core of his analysis is an argument that we lack a moral framework to heal these rifts. The right pursues a blind allegiance to the belief that freedom for economic man to pursue productivity and prosperity can bridge the chasms, while the left pursues an agenda of lawyerly rights and benefits for disenfranchised identity groups. Both sides ignore the moral obligations that have always made successful societies work. Collier has suggestions for the firm, the family, the state, and the globe. For the firm, he writes: Modern capitalism has the potential to lift us all to unprecedented prosperity, but it is morally bankrupt and on track for tragedy.If capitalism is to work for everyone it needs to be managed so as to deliver purpose as well as productivity. WEIRD society worked from 1945 to 1970, Collier argues, because it lived off a huge, invisible and unquantifiable asset that had been accumulated during the Second World War: a shared identity forged through a supreme and successful national effort. You have to wonder what sort of shock it will take to regain that sense of common purpose. In any case, the book is well worth a read. Story continues Meanwhile, for those who believe capitalism works just fine as it iswhich, by our numbers, is 24% of Fortune 500 CEOs and about 10% of CEO Daily readersthere was an affirming leader in this weeks Economist, documenting the unprecedented jobs boom and rising wages. The zeitgeist has lost touch with the data, it argues. And in the man-bites-dog department: Congress actually did something worthwhile last week. Read TIAA CEO Roger Fergusons commentary on the SECURE Act, here. News below. Alan Murray @alansmurray alan.murray@fortune.com Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. FCAU proposed to collaborate with Renault SA RNLSY of France to establish the third biggest automaker in the world, per Associated Press. The $40-billion proposed company will aggressively enter the electric and autonomous vehicles industry. With anticipated annual vehicle production of 8.7 million, the merged entity is likely to reshape the global auto industry. The deal is likely to be beneficial for the companies. This would lead to annual savings of $5.6 billion in forms of sharing of research, purchase of costs and other activities. Importantly, the merger is likely to be a good fit as Renault boasts strong presence in Europe and has edge developing electric vehicles while Fiat Chrysler has robust presence in the United States and SUV markets. However, these companies are comparatively weak in China, the largest auto market in the world. Recently, the auto industry tends to opt for consolidation. In fact, the pressure and reality to invest heavily in the development of electric cars, self-driving vehicles and in-car connectivity resulted in a growing number of consolidations in the global auto industry. In addition to this, regulators in China and Europe are pushing automakers to produce electric vehicles to comply with the stricter climate change regulations. However, there are several hurdles before this mega merger. Problems may arise from the leadership position in the merged entity. Moreover, the cultural and geographical synchronization can create problems. Shares of Fiat Chrysler have underperformed the industry it belongs to in the past three months. Over this time frame, shares of the company have fallen 13% compared with the industrys decline of 7.2%. While Renault currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), Fiat Chrysler has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). A couple of better-ranked stocks in the auto space are Ford Motor Company F and Fox Factory Holding Corp. FOXF, each currently carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Ford has an expected long-term growth rate of 7.3%. Over the past three months, shares of the company have gained 11.9%. Fox Factory has an expected long-term growth rate of 16.4%. Over the past three months, shares of the company have gained 5.3%. 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 Ford Motor Company (F) : Free Stock Analysis Report Fox Factory Holding Corp. (FOXF) : Free Stock Analysis Report Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (FCAU) : Free Stock Analysis Report RENAULT SA (RNLSY) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Any investors hoping to find a Small Cap Blend fund could think about starting with Fidelity Stock Selector Small Cap (FDSCX). FDSCX possesses a Zacks Mutual Fund Rank of 1 (Strong Buy), which is based on nine forecasting factors like size, cost, and past performance. Objective Zacks categorizes FDSCX as Small Cap Blend, which is an area packed with options. Usually targeting stocks with market caps of less than $2 billion, a Small Cap Blend mutual fund lets investors diversify their funds among other kinds of small-cap equities. This can help reduce risk found in companies that have a lower stock market valuation. History of Fund/Manager Fidelity is based in Boston, MA, and is the manager of FDSCX. Since Fidelity Stock Selector Small Cap made its debut in June of 1993, FDSCX has garnered more than $1.08 billion in assets. The fund is currently managed by a team of investment professionals. Performance Of course, investors look for strong performance in funds. This fund has delivered a 5-year annualized total return of 8.15%, and it sits in the middle third among its category peers. But if you are looking for a shorter time frame, it is also worth looking at its 3-year annualized total return of 12.33%, which places it in the middle third during this time-frame. When looking at a fund's performance, it is also important to note the standard deviation of the returns. The lower the standard deviation, the less volatility the fund experiences. FDSCX's standard deviation over the past three years is 14.45% compared to the category average of 10.26%. The fund's standard deviation over the past 5 years is 14.57% compared to the category average of 10.56%. This makes the fund more volatile than its peers over the past half-decade. Risk Factors Investors cannot discount the risks to this segment though, as it is always important to remember the downside for any potential investment. In the most recent bear market, FDSCX lost 61.04% and underperformed its peer group by 8.75%. These results could imply that the fund is a worse choice than its peers during a sliding market environment. Story continues Investors should not forget about beta, an important way to measure a mutual fund's risk compared to the market as a whole. FDSCX has a 5-year beta of 1.11, which means it is likely to be more volatile than the market average. Another factor to consider is alpha, as it reflects a portfolio's performance on a risk-adjusted basis relative to a benchmark-in this case, the S&P 500. The fund has produced a negative alpha over the past 5 years of -3.84, which shows that managers in this portfolio find it difficult to pick securities that generate better-than-benchmark returns. Holdings Investigating the equity holdings of a mutual fund is also a valuable exercise. This can show us how the manager is applying their stated methodology, as well as if there are any inherent biases in their approach. For this particular fund, the focus is largely on equities that are traded in the United States. This fund is currently holding about 98.15% stock in stocks, which have an average market capitalization of $3.56 billion. The fund has the heaviest exposure to the following market sectors: Finance Technology Other Industrial Cyclical With turnover at about 68%, this fund is making more trades in a given year than the category average. Expenses Costs are increasingly important for mutual fund investing, and particularly as competition heats up in this market. And all things being equal, a lower cost product will outperform its otherwise identical counterpart, so taking a closer look at these metrics is key for investors. In terms of fees, FDSCX is a no load fund. It has an expense ratio of 0.67% compared to the category average of 1.05%. From a cost perspective, FDSCX is actually cheaper than its peers. Investors should also note that the minimum initial investment for the product is $0 and that each subsequent investment has no minimum amount. Bottom Line Overall, Fidelity Stock Selector Small Cap ( FDSCX ) has a high Zacks Mutual Fund rank, similar performance, average downside risk, and lower fees compared to its peers. Don't stop here for your research on Small Cap Blend funds. We also have plenty more on our site in order to help you find the best possible fund for your portfolio. Make sure to check out www.zacks.com/funds/mutual-funds for more information about the world of funds, and feel free to compare FDSCX to its peers as well for additional information. If you are more of a stock investor, make sure to also check out our Zacks Rank, and our full suite of tools we have available for novice and professional investors alike. 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 Get Your Free (FDSCX): Fund Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research (Reuters) - Five people died and 19 were being treated in hospital after drinking spurious liquor in India's most populous state of Uttar Pradesh, a district official said on Tuesday. The victims fell ill after consuming the liquor on Monday night and were taken to a hospital, where three of them died, Udai Bhanu Tripathi, a district magistrate, told Reuters, adding that two more died en route and 19 were being treated. State officials will make every effort to hunt down the culprit and assist the bereaved families, Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of the northern Indian state, said on Twitter. Deaths from illegally produced alcohol, known locally as hooch or country liquor, are common in India, where few people can afford branded spirits. In February, more than 250 people died after drinking toxic alcohol in two separate incidents in the country's north and east. (Reporting by Shounak Dasgupta, Editing by Alasdair Pal and Clarence Fernandez) (Reuters) - Five people died and 19 were being treated in hospital after drinking spurious liquor in Uttar Pradesh, a district official said on Tuesday. The victims fell ill after consuming the liquor on Monday night and were taken to a hospital, where three of them died, Udai Bhanu Tripathi, a district magistrate, told Reuters, adding that two more died en route and 19 were being treated. State officials will make every effort to hunt down the culprit and assist the bereaved families, Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, said on Twitter. Deaths from illegally produced alcohol, known locally as hooch or country liquor, are common in India, where few people can afford branded spirits. In February, more than 250 people died after drinking toxic alcohol in two separate incidents in the country's north and east. (Reporting by Shounak Dasgupta, Editing by Alasdair Pal and Clarence Fernandez) PRAGUE, May 28 (Reuters) - Four ex-communist eastern European Union members will propose outgoing European Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic as their candidate to head the new European Union executive, Czech newspaper Hospodarske Noviny reported on Tuesday. Citing Czech and EU sources, the paper said the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Poland -- known as the Visegrad Four -- could also push Sefcovic, a career diplomat, to take the EU's foreign policy post if he cannot secure the top spot. Leaders of EU member states will meet on Tuesday evening to assess the outcome of last weekend's European Parliament election and begin the process of bargaining over EU leadership jobs and policies. Moscow-educated Sefcovic, 52, has been a Commission member since 2009 and currently oversees EU energy policy. He was backed by Smer, the leftist party that has dominated Slovak politics since 2006, in Slovakia's presidential election in March, but lost to liberal lawyer Zuzana Caputova, who surged to victory on a wave of public fury over corruption. In that election he said he wanted to fight back against a rising tide of euroscepticism sweeping the European Union. Sefcovic had said last year that he would stand for the Commission presidency but later withdrew his bid and endorsed the EU's deputy chief executive, Dutchman Frans Timmermans, a fellow member of the Party of European Socialists. In Brussels, Sefcovic was not immediately seen as having a strong chance. Horse-trading over the EU's top jobs, taking into account national interests, party lines and gender issues, will last at least until a June 20-21 summit. A standoff is shaping up with parliament, where most EU party chiefs want the national leaders to endorse the assembly's pick to replace Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. Other names in the running to include Timmermans, already nominated as the Socialists' lead candidate for the top Brussels job, the EU's Brexit negotiator, Frenchman Michel Barnier. (Reporting by Robert Muller; Additional reporting by Gabriela Baczynska in Brussels; Editing by Catherine Evans) PARIS, May 28 (Reuters) - Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Tuesday said France was intensifying diplomatic efforts to prevent four of its citizens being executed in Iraq after they were sentenced to death for belonging to Islamic State. President Emmanuel Macron's government has said it respects Iraqi sovereignty, but opposes the death penalty. Iraqi court officials have said the four have been sentenced to death by hanging. (Editing by Richard Lough; Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta) PARIS (Reuters) - France's foreign minister said on Tuesday there were signs that chemicals had been used in attacks by Syrian government forces on rebels in northwest Syria, but they still needed to be verified. The United States said on May 23 it had received numerous reports that appeared consistent with chemical exposure after forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad launched an offensive on the rebel stronghold. "We have a sign of the use of chemical weapons in the Idlib area but for now there isn't verification," Jean-Yves Le Drian told the French parliament's foreign affairs committee. "We are cautious because we think that the use of chemical weapons must be confirmed and lethal before we react," he said. Syria's government denies using chemical weapons. The United States, Britain and France launched air strikes in April 2018 against what they described as three Syrian chemical weapons targets in retaliation for a suspected gas attack that killed scores of people in the Damascus suburb earlier that month. Rebels fighting on the mountainous western edge of Syria's last big rebel enclave of Idlib said on May 19 that the army had shelled them with poison gas, leading some to suffer choking symptoms. They said they had not documented the attack because they were under bombardment when it occurred. (Reporting by John Irish; editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise) By Ranga Sirilal COLOMBO, May 28 (Reuters) - A hardline Buddhist monk accused of inciting violence against minority Muslims in Sri Lanka said on Tuesday he planned to denounce Islamist militants after he was freed from prison last week by presidential pardon. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara, head of the Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) or "Buddhist Power Force," was pardoned by President Maithripala Sirisena after serving nine months of a six-year sentence for contempt of court. Rights activists said his release sent a message that majority Buddhists could incite hate against minorities. Gnanasara has denied allegations that he encouraged violence against Muslims and Christians, saying he only highlighted threats from militants. His pardon came a week after rioters attacked Muslim-owned homes, shops, and mosques in apparent reprisal for Easter bombings, claimed by Islamic State, that killed more than 250 people. Police said Gnanasara's group had no links to the attacks. At a news conference on Tuesday, Gnanasara said Sri Lankan followers of Wahhabism, a conservative branch of Islam, were indirectly responsible for the April 21 bombings on churches and hotels. "I urge the government to arrest the main people responsible for the spreading of Wahhabism," Gnanasara said. Hilmy Ahmed, the vice president of the Muslim Council of Sri Lanka, said he was willing to meet him. "We will talk to him and see what he wants to discuss. We have always had cordial discussions with him even though he has his extremist views," Ahmed said. Some political analysts see the pardon as a bid by Sirisena to woo Sinhala Buddhists, who make 70 percent of the nation's 22 million people, ahead of elections this year. "He is trying to build the Sinhala Buddhist votes," said Kusal Perera, a political columnist. Gnanasara was convicted in 2018 on four counts of contempt of court. The case stemmed from a 2016 court hearing on the abduction of journalist Prageeth Eknaligoda over which military intelligence officials were accused. Story continues Gnanasara shouted at the judge and lawyers because the military officials had not been given bail. He also threatened Eknaligoda's wife. During a Monday evening visit to a temple, Gnanasara said he is "active once more... Attaining nirvana can wait." "Now I have decided to act swiftly until this danger moves away," he said in an apparent reference to Islamist militancy. (Additional reporting by Shihar Aneez; Writing by Alexandra Ulmer; editing by Darren Schuettler) By Sudip Kar-Gupta PARIS (Reuters) - France will seek protection of local jobs and other guarantees in exchange for supporting a merger between carmakers Renault and Fiat Chrysler, its finance minister said on Tuesday, underscoring the challenges facing the plan. Renault Chairman Jean-Dominique Senard arrived in Japan to discuss the proposed tie-up with the French company's existing partner Nissan - another potential obstacle to the $35 billion-plus merger of equals. Renault and Italian-American rival Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) are in talks to tackle the costs of far-reaching technological and regulatory changes by creating the world's third-biggest automaker. Nissan found out about Renault's merger talks with Fiat Chrysler only days before they became public, four sources told Reuters, stoking fears at the Japanese carmaker that a deal could further weaken its position in a 20-year alliance with Renault. A deal between Renault and FCA would create a player ranked behind only Japan's Toyota and Germany's Volkswagen and target 5 billion euros ($5.6 billion) a year in savings. Some analysts, however, say the companies face a challenge to win over powerful stakeholders ranging from the French and Italian governments to trade unions and Nissan. Patrick Pelata, a former Renault chief operating officer, also criticized the deal plan for undervaluing Renault and threatening to overstretch its engineering resources. By valuing Renault at its market price, the all-share offer attributes a negative 6 billion euro value to Renault operations after deduction of its 43.4% stake in Nissan and 3.1% Daimler holding, Pelata told BFM radio. "That's hardly reasonable," he said. "And I think that shareholders, including the French state, are bound to take issue with this sooner or later." Pelata added: "FCA has big problem because they haven't invested for the future - they have no electric vehicle platform and they've done nothing in autonomous cars." Story continues French finance minister Bruno Le Maire told RTL radio on Tuesday that the plan was a good opportunity for both Renault and the European car industry, which has been struggling for years with overcapacity and subdued demand. (global sales by brand 2018: https://tmsnrt.rs/2WaZc1h) CONDITIONS Le Maire also said the French government would seek four guarantees in exchange for backing a deal that would reduce its 15% stake in Renault to 7.5% of the combined entity. "The first: industrial jobs and industrial sites. I told the Renault chairman very clearly that it was the first of the guarantees I wanted from him in the opening of these negotiations. A guarantee on the preservation of industrial jobs and sites in France," Le Maire said. The minister added that France wants to be well represented on the board of the new company, for it to be a leader in developing electric batteries and for the deal to take place "within the framework of the alliance between Renault and Nissan". A source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Monday that Renault and FCA had given commitments about maintaining industrial jobs and sites, leaving room for white-collar and engineering layoffs as well as some plant downsizing. Also on Monday, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said Rome might need to take a stake in the combined company, balancing France's shareholding. Le Maire said he had spoken to the Japanese about the proposed tie up. Asked how they had responded, he replied: "I look at the reaction of Nissan president Mr Saikawa, and it's a reaction that is open." Nissan Chief Executive Hiroto Saikawa is likely to have first caught wind of the merger plan through his own chief operating officer, Yasuhiro Yamauchi, who also serves on Renault's board, a source said, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter. Analysts have said that Nissan, which has a 15% non-voting stake in Renault, might be reluctant to back an FCA-Renault tie-up that would probably use its technology less than the current Renault-Nissan alliance. Saikawa told Japanese TV on Tuesday that Nissan is "open to constructive discussions". The Renault-Nissan alliance has been under strain since the arrest and ousting of former chairman Carlos Ghosn late last year on charges of financial misconduct, with Nissan recently rebuffing a merger proposal from its partner. Renault shares were up 1% by 1450 GMT, extending gains after Monday's 12% advance. Fiat shares slipped in Milan but the United States-listed stock jumped 7% after a public holiday on Monday. (Additional reporting by Laurance Frost, Myriam Rivet, Gilles Guillaume and Naomi Tajitsu; Editing by Mark Potter, Keith Weir and David Goodman) Joshua Coles, 27, of Tiverton, Devon, was filmed swallowing a goldfish which had been won at Bridgwater Fair last year. The tradition of offering goldfish as prizes at an 800-year-old funfair has been scrapped - after a man was filmed swallowing one. Officials at Bridgwater Fair in Somerset say the animals will no longer be given out to the public. The move comes after Joshua Coles, 27, of Tiverton, Devon, was filmed swallowing a goldfish which had been won at Bridgwater Fair last year. In the 14-second clip, Coles can be seen with the live fish in his hand before swallowing it with a drink and holding his mouth open to the camera. Coles was fined 300 and banned from keeping fish for five years. The fair has confirmed it will no longer offer fish as prizes. (SWNS) Joshua Coles, 27, of Tiverton, Devon, was filmed swallowing a goldfish which had been won at Bridgwater Fair last year. He was fined 300 and banned from keeping fish for five years. The fair has confirmed it will no longer offer fish as prizes. (SWNS) The video was posted onto Snapchat where it was widely shared on social media. It was later reported to the RSPCA by those concerned about what they had seen. Coles was sentenced at Exeter Crown Court and was ordered to pay 300 with 85 victim surcharge. He was also banned from keeping fish for five years. The Showmen's Guild, the organisers behind Bridgwater Fair, confirmed goldfish will no longer be offered as prizes at future fairs in Bridgwater following the incident. It is not known if a similar ban will be offered at other funfairs. Joshua Coles, 27, of Tiverton, Devon, was filmed swallowing a goldfish which had been won at Bridgwater Fair last year. He was fined 300 and banned from keeping fish for five years. The fair has confirmed it will no longer offer fish as prizes. (SWNS) A spokesman for the organisation's western section committee said: "Due to the incident reported by the RSPCA last year, bad press and emotive issues this is causing, the western section committee of the Showmen's Guild of Great Britain agreed to suspend the giving of live animals as prizes at Bridgwater Fair 2019. "The western section cannot comment on other fairs across the country." A spokeswoman for Sedgemoor District Council said the authority received multiple calls to ban live animals as prizes at the annual four-day event. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Jeremy Hunt says no deal political suicide for Tories Albino panda caught on camera for first time Spice Girls fans demand refund over diabolical sound She said: "After the RSPCA recently prosecuted a person for swallowing a live goldfish, which was won as a prize at Bridgwater Fair last September, the council was inundated with requests from animal charities, journalists and individuals, asking the council to ban the practice of giving live animals as prizes in this day and age. Story continues Joshua Coles, 27, of Tiverton, Devon, was filmed swallowing a goldfish which had been won at Bridgwater Fair last year. He was fined 300 and banned from keeping fish for five years. The fair has confirmed it will no longer offer fish as prizes. (SWNS) "We responded to those concerned, saying that SDC do not own or run the fair, so it is not within our remit to ban the practice or not. "We wrote to the Showman's Guild who run the fair and they have replied, saying they would suspend the practice of giving goldfish at this year's fair. "Our staff were unaware of the incident as it was not mentioned in the police or security debrief at the time." A spokeswoman for the RSPCA welcomed the ban at Bridgwater Fair and said goldfish often offered as prizes "suffer miserably" and are "easily stressed". BANJUL (Reuters) - Eight former soldiers were sentenced on Monday for plotting to overthrow Gambia's president Adama Barrow in 2017 with the help of his ousted predecessor, the country's Court Martial said. The soldiers were led by a former military aide to ex-president Yahya Jammeh, who ruled Gambia for 22 years before losing an election in late 2016 to Barrow and then refusing to step down. The plotters, who had pleaded not guilty, were charged with nine counts including treason for conspiring to detain ministers and military officials and attack an international force that had been set up in Gambia to retain order after Jammeh's rancorous departure. Seven of the accused received a nine year sentence and one got three years. They were in contact with former president Jammeh over the messaging service WhatsApp, the Court Martial said, and discussed attacking troops in areas of the country still considered loyal to the former president. Rights groups and the current government say Jammeh's 22-year rule was marred by human rights abuses and fraud, allegations Jammeh denies. (Reporting by Lamin Jahateh and Pap Saine; Writing by Juliette Jabkhiro; Editing by Edward McAllister and Alison Williams) (Reuters) - General Motors said on Tuesday it will partner with construction firm Bechtel Corp to build fast-charging stations across the United States for electric vehicles, and is seeking investors to fund the collaboration. The automaker said the partnership was at a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) stage and the business structure for the tie-up had not yet been finalised. "This collaboration and future build-out will help alleviate issues with customers' range anxiety by leveraging GM and Bechtel's scale, flexibility and proprietary data to provide chargers in locations convenient to EV customers," General Motors told Reuters. The company declined to disclose the names of any investors it is currently in talks with. (Reporting by Sanjana Shivdas and Debroop Roy in Bengaluru; Editing by Shailesh Kuber) SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) -- Leon Brown is trusted enough to drive a tractor-trailer inside one of the nation's busiest seaports more than six years after being released from prison. But he's not allowed to vote in Georgia because of a law rooted in the years after the Civil War, when whites sought to keep blacks from the ballot box. With a criminal history dating back decades, 53-year-old Brown has more than three years left on probation after serving behind bars for theft and credit-card fraud. Enough time has passed that he qualifies for a federal government credential to deliver cargo to and from the Port of Savannah, but Brown can't take part in elections. "I would like to vote," Brown said. "I go off and do the time, come back out and they hold me hostage again because I'm on probation." Brown and tens of thousands of other Georgia residents are cut off from voting due to a vaguely worded law that state election officials interpret in the strictest possible manner. Georgia strips voting rights from people convicted of all felonies, from murder to drug possession, even though a straightforward reading of the law suggests not all felons deserve such punishment. Felons seeking to restore their voting rights must not only finish their prison sentences, but also any parole or probation, as well as pay any outstanding court fines. That has a big effect in Georgia, which has more people on probation than any other state. The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld laws like Georgia's, which is not the nation's most severe. Kentucky and Iowa bar all felons from voting for life. So did Florida until voters last year approved a constitutional amendment to restore voting rights to those who serve their time. Nine other U.S. states permanently rescind voting rights for some felony convictions. Voting policies in Georgia have been under a microscope since the 2018 elections, largely because of the close finish between new Republican Gov. Brian Kemp and Democrat Stacey Abrams. Abrams and her supporters accused Kemp, who campaigned while serving as Georgia's top elections official, of benefiting from restrictive policies adopted in the name of election security. Abrams said the policies actually prevented minorities and low-income voters from casting ballots. An advocacy group since formed by Abrams has co-filed a lawsuit accusing Kemp of mismanaging the election. Story continues The debate in Georgia has all but ignored the voting rights of felons, even as the issue has gained traction nationally. A sweeping elections bill recently passed by Democrats in the U.S. House would allow felons to vote in federal elections as soon as they leave prison. Georgia law prohibits voting by anyone convicted of a "felony involving moral turpitude," a legal phrase rooted in the state's Reconstruction-era constitution of 1877. The phrase has endured several revisions, including the latest version from 1983. "It's a vague concept," said Julia Simon-Kerr, a University of Connecticut law professor who's spent the past decade researching the legal history of the phrase "moral turpitude." ''It can be used basically in discriminatory ways because it has very little solid, definitional meaning." State lawmakers have never defined which felonies involve "moral turpitude." Georgia election officials have long interpreted the state constitution to mean all felonies trigger the loss of voting rights. Not everyone agrees. "If the constitution states felonies 'involving moral turpitude,' then there must be felonies not involving moral turpitude," said Sean Young, Georgia legal director for the American Civil Liberties Union. "We should be asking Georgia politicians why they're so eager to restrict the franchise beyond what the constitution allows." Georgia election officials say court rulings support denying voting rights to all felons. Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger's spokeswoman, Tess Hammock, said the state Supreme Court has "directly weighed in on this question." She cited a 1998 ruling that states "in Georgia, all felonies are crimes involving moral turpitude," and a similar decision from 1979. Neither of those cases dealt with voting rights. One upheld the disbarring of an attorney over a felony conviction. The other addressed whether a trial witness' criminal record could be used to attack his credibility. The ACLU's Young said it's significant that neither case dealt with felons' voting rights because "the same words can have different meaning in a different context." Others have questioned whether Georgia is right to prohibit all felons from voting. A panel formed by Kemp in 2011 to recommend election-law changes suggested lawmakers consider defining felonies of "moral turpitude" for voting purposes. The state Senate this year approved a study committee to look at whether to exempt some nonviolent felonies from the voting ban. Alabama has grappled with a similar law denying voting rights for crimes involving "moral turpitude." The U.S. Supreme Court in 1985 struck down the original, ruling its adoption in 1901 was guided by a "zeal for white supremacy." Alabama later restored the "moral turpitude" standard and kept it vague until 2017. That's when state lawmakers facing a federal lawsuit defined those crimes as 46 felonies, leaving out some lesser ones, such as drug possession. In Georgia, the law says felons don't regain the ability to vote "except upon completion of the sentence." State officials interpret that to mean not just prison time, but also parole and probation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, Georgia had 410,964 people on probation as of 2016, the most recent year for which data is available. That's far more than any other state. California had 288,911 probationers; its population is nearly four times that of Georgia. Felony convictions barred 248,751 Georgia residents 3% of the state's voting-age population from voting in 2016, according to the Sentencing Project, a Washington-based advocacy group that studies racial disparities in criminal sentences. Of those, 58% were African Americans, who make up 30% of the state population. Brown left prison in 2012 after serving about two years for stealing $80 and a credit card that he used to run up $442.48 in fraudulent charges. "I didn't hurt anybody," he said. "I just did something stupid." Photo: Standard & Strange/Yelp Looking to uncover all that Temescal has to offer? Get to know this Oakland neighborhood by browsing its most popular local businesses, from a men's clothing store to an Ethiopian spot. Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top places to visit in Temescal, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of neighborhood businesses. Read on for the results. 1. Standard & Strange Photo: rachel y./Yelp Topping the list is shoe store Standard & Strange, which offers men's clothing, accessories and more. Located at 5010 Telegraph Ave. (between 51st and 49th streets.), it's the highest-rated business in the neighborhood, boasting five stars out of 64 reviews on Yelp. Its website states that the store stocks "hard-to-find brands that will both fit into and advance your wardrobe." The store sells high-end denim, shirts, jackets and accessories from international brands like The Real McCoy's and Momotaro. Yelpers also appreciate the store's customer service and knowledgable staff. 2. Cholita Linda Photo: alex t./Yelp Next up is Latin American spot Cholita Linda, which offers sandwiches and tacos, situated at 4923 Telegraph Ave. (between 51st and 49th streets). With 4.5 stars out of 1,407 reviews on Yelp, it's proven to be a local favorite. This local franchise has one other area location. The pan-Latin fast-casual restaurant is known for its fish tacos, but Yelpers also recommend the al pastor tacos as well as sides like the yucca fries and plantains. Explore the rest of the menu here. 3. Bakesale Betty Photo: monica e./Yelp Bakery and traditional American spot Bakesale Betty, which offers sandwiches and more, is another top choice. Yelpers give the business, located at 5098 Telegraph Ave. (between 51st and 49th streets), four stars out of 4,135 reviews. Menu standouts include the free-range, organic buttermilk fried chicken sandwich and the coleslaw made with an oil-based dressing. Save room for desserts like the chocolate chip cookies and the strawberry shortcake and brownies. Story continues 4. Abesha Ethiopian Cuisine Photo: shayla b./Yelp Abesha Ethiopian Cuisine, an Ethiopian and African spot, is another much-loved neighborhood go-to, with 4.5 stars out of 147 Yelp reviews. Head over to 4929 Shattuck Ave. (between 51st and 49th streets.) to see for yourself. Yelpers recommend ordering the veggie lunch special, which includes a large platter of beans, greens and injera (sourdough-risen flatbread). Other favorites include the fish tibs cooked in berbere spices, along with the meat combo platter with chicken, beef and lamb. Check out the rest of the menu here. 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. For some members of Congress, 2019 may feel a lot like 1993. The North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA, is once again in the spotlight -- though this time, the revised trade deal is known as the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement, or USMCA. Fifty-five lawmakers who voted on the original trade agreement in 1993 are still in office today. At the time, several lawmakers including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH) were serving in the U.S. House and have since moved to the Senate. These are the current members of Congress who were in office during the 1993 NAFTA vote. (David Foster for Yahoo Finance) Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) told Yahoo Finance she campaigned in opposition to NAFTA when she was first elected in 1990. When she arrived on Capitol Hill, she waged a war against the trade agreement that she argued would cost American jobs. I put my heart and soul into defeating this, said DeLauro. It was wild. It was very, very wild. It was really quite a time. DeLauro describes the period as an emotional one, especially for a new member of Congress. We were on the floor every morning, every night...I partnered with Sherrod [Brown], we whipped, it was a full-scale operation, said DeLauro in an interview with Yahoo Finance. Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) speaks on the House floor against NAFTA in 1993. (CSPAN) Brown remembers NAFTA was one of his first major votes in Congress. We knew that trade agreement would cost American jobs, Brown told Yahoo Finance. That's what's happened with NAFTA over and over. Companies moved to Mexico, sold back into the United States made more money, as wages have been stagnant and corporate profits are up. Executives are making more money and American workers are hurt, he said. Portman was a freshman member of Congress in 1993. He saw the trade agreement with Canada and Mexico differently. The notion was that we should be able to knock down barriers on both sides to be able to create more jobs in America, Portman told Yahoo Finance. The reality was, that we had relatively low tariffs and these other countries, particularly Mexico, had relatively high tariffs. Story continues DeLauro and Brown still agree on the issue. DeLauro argues the biggest problem with the trade deal in 1993 was that it was designed for corporations not workers. Rep. Sherrod Brown (D-OH), now a US Senator, appears on CSPAN in 1993 to voice his opposition to NAFTA. The point was that companies, corporations are going to outsource their jobs. That is still the problem today, said DeLauro. Measuring NAFTAs impact is not so simple The reality of NAFTAs impact on American jobs is tricky. The goal of NAFTA was to eliminate barriers and increase trade and investment between the three countries. The economies really have grown together all three of them which was the point. There are a lot of supply chains now that are tightly bound to all three countries, said Bill Reinsch, a trade expert with the Center for Strategic and International Studies and a former Commerce Department official. Trade with Canada and Mexico has more than tripled since the agreement took effect but experts say its difficult to blame or credit NAFTA with changes to the American workforce over the past 25 years. Trade-related job gains and losses since NAFTA may have accelerated trends that were ongoing prior to NAFTA and may not be totally attributable to the trade agreement, a 2017 Congressional Research Service report said. Supporters, like the US Chamber of Commerce, estimate 14 million American jobs depend on trade with Canada and Mexico. Critics, like the AFL-CIO, claim more than 850,000 American jobs have been outsourced to Mexico under NAFTA. NAFTA did not cause the huge job losses feared by the critics or the large economic gains predicted by supporters. The net overall effect of NAFTA on the U.S. economy appears to have been relatively modest, primarily because trade with Canada and Mexico accounts for a small percentage of U.S. GDP, the CRS report says. Portman who went on to serve as the United States Trade Representative under George W. Bush still says supporting NAFTA was the right move, though he says its time to update it. It makes more sense for Ohio workers and Ohio farmers, Ohio service providers, Portman said. When you compare the existing NAFTA to the USMCA, the USMCA is really better for people who are concerned about jobs and protecting good American jobs than NAFTA. Some of the changes included in the USMCA include digital trade provisions, new rules for automakers, new labor and environmental standards and more access to the Canadian dairy market for American farmers. Reinsch called the new deal a modest upgrade. Trade issues are more regional than party-line House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD) voted yes on the deal in 1993. More than two decades later, they lead a party that has concerns about the revised deal ranging from enforcement, environmental, labor and pharmaceutical provisions. Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) speaks on the House floor in support of NAFTA in 1993. (CSPAN) Democratic lawmakers are in talks with United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer about their concerns. We have had a lot deeper and many, many more conversations with the current US Trade Representative than we ever had with the prior trade representative. That's true for me, its true for labor, it's true for a variety of other groups, said DeLauro. Portman told Yahoo Finance the USMCA addresses the worries of NAFTA critics. He and other USMCA supporters point to the new labor standards, environmental standards and rules that require a higher percentage of automobile components to be manufactured in North America to avoid tariffs. There's also further protection on the auto side by actually establishing a minimum wage in part, in Mexico, for some of the autoworkers. There's better protections for intellectual property, said Portman. Rep. Rob Portman (R-OH), now a US Senator, speaks on the House floor in support of NAFTA in 1993. (CSPAN) DeLauro acknowledges there are some improvements in the USMCA, but says its not enough. There has been movement on labor standards, which is important. There have been movements that we wanted to have happen in Mexico with regard to their labor laws, she said. However, what's missing here, which is still what the issue is, is there is now no enforcement mechanism for those labor standards. DeLauro told Yahoo Finance she believes parts of the agreement need to be renegotiated with Canada and Mexico. Do not open the entire agreement. Just do it for two or three things, said DeLauro. Brown said without an enforcement mechanism, the USMCA will do virtually nothing to stop companies from moving jobs overseas. U.S. companies will still look in Mexico with cheap wages, weaker environmental laws, weaker worker safety protections, and choose to move there, said Brown. Thats why Brown and Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) have proposed a plan that they say will ensure Mexico holds up its end of the deal. This has to have real teeth. It has to be enforceable. I didnt tell the administration youve got to do XYZ. But I said what is non-negotiable, if you want my support...its got to have real teeth, said Wyden. Wyden was also serving in the House during the first NAFTA debate, but he voted in favor of the agreement. Yahoo Finance asked Wyden if he wished he would have voted differently on NAFTA. Then Rep. Ron Wyden (D-OR), now a US Senator, speaks on the House floor in support of NAFTA in 1993. (CSPAN) That was decades ago, he said. In those years what you have in your hand [an iPhone] didnt exist. This is a very different time. There are parts of this [USMCA] that I think are quite constructive, as it relates to technology like youve got in your hand. But during those years there were a whole different array of challenges...this is a different time. Im trying, as the ranking Democrat on the Finance Committee, to make sure we have a modern trade policy for a modern array challenges. Votes were not along party lines in 1993. NAFTA was negotiated largely by Republican President George H.W. Bush, and signed into law by Democratic President Bill Clinton. I supported Bill Clinton. Supported 98% of everything, you know, that he was engaged or involved with, said DeLauro. This time around, with a Republican in the White House, its still possible the final vote will not be along party lines. Ive always thought trade is in many ways more regional than party line. Youll find Democrats and Republicans in California, for example, Washington, Oregon tend to be pro-trade. Democrats and Republicans in Ohio and Pennsylvania and Michigan tend to be more skeptical. It has to do with their districts he people they represent, said Reinsch. I come from part of the world...one out of five jobs depend on trade, said Wyden. In my state [Oregon] which is incredibly trade sensitive people say what are you going to do to enforce the laws, to stop the cheating, to stop people from ripping off our jobs? Bipartisan agreement on USMCA Reinsch said the Democratic party could split, but he expects most Republican lawmakers to end up supporting the deal. Trump gives you cover. If he says this is a good agreement and he does who in the Republican party is going to say no its not? Nobody is going to be more protectionist than he is, said Reinsch. Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID) voted against NAFTA when he was a member of the House. I listen closely to the needs of Idahos growers and producers, and I had concerns with the original NAFTA agreement because many goods and services made in the United States received unfair treatment among trading allies, said Crapo in a statement to Yahoo Finance. Crapo told Yahoo Finance hes long believed NAFTA should be renegotiated and hes encouraged by Trumps efforts but hes still evaluating the new trade agreement. The original NAFTA agreement did not provide sufficient market access, nor did it address pricing structures and unfair trade practices in the dairy sector. Access to fair trade treatment in the international marketplace remains a critical component of my focus in considering trade policies, said Crapo in a statement. DeLauro did note one key difference between the revised trade deal and trade deals of the past. DeLauro said she never faltered in her opposition to the original NAFTA or the Trans-Pacific Partnership under President Obama. But this time, she sees potential. We had 160 Democrats who never moved off the dime about being opposed to the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement. With this renegotiated NAFTA, the issue is we have made progress, but we're not there yet, she said. [Were] looking for a way. Make the changes we can get there in a bipartisan basis. Jessica Smith is a reporter for Yahoo Finance based in Washington, D.C. Follow her on Twitter at @JessicaASmith8. Read more: As Trump pushes USMCA, Dems going to the mat on enforcement Mnuchin says he's talked to Walmart CFO about potential tariff impact Siemens USA CEO: Tariffs arent helping anyone Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flipboard, LinkedIn, YouTube, and reddit. From a family-friendly event to a novel discussion, there's plenty to enjoy in Sacramento this week. Read on for a rundown of ideas for how to fill your calendar. 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. Let's Move From the event description: Learn about transportation projects in your neighborhood and celebrate movement in all forms. Enjoy music, snacks and family-friendly activities while we explore how to improve our streets, minds and bodies. When: Thursday, May 30, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Where: McClatchy Park, 3500 Fifth Ave. Admission: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets California State Archives Speaker Series From the event description: Mary A. Helmich will be discussing her new book, "A Legacy in Brick & Iron: Sacramentos Central & Southern Pacific Railroad Shops," co-authored with Kevin V. Bunker, which describes the history of the complex currently under development as the Railyards, with a focus on its various industries. When: Thursday, May 30, 5-6:30 p.m. Where: California State Archives, 1020 O St., Floor 4 Admission: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Pride of the Pocket From the event description: Save the date for our annual awards ceremony, celebrating the folks who make our community such a wonderful place to live, work and play. When: Thursday, May 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Where: Didion School Park Admission: Free. More ticket options available. 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. Houston (AFP) - In the heart of Texas oil country, the city of Houston rode high on the oil boom, but then fell hard when the bottom dropped out of crude prices. But bit by bit America's fourth-largest city is weaning itself off its dependence on oil, betting instead on industries like healthcare and tech, even though black gold is never far from view in the birthplace of the American petroleum industry. In the southern part of town, the Texas Medical Center covers two square miles (more than five square kilometers), with glass towers stacked between multiple medical schools, a children's hospital and a trauma center. About 10 million patients a year seek specialist treatment at the center, where 110,000 people work, making it Houston's biggest employer. And TMC's rapid expansion has helped to make the health sector the biggest job creator in the state as well, employing more than 11 percent of workers in Texas, compared to only 8.6 percent in energy. Patrick Jankowski, vice president of the Greater Houston Partnership, told AFP the city had "no choice" but to bank on other industries. "To provide jobs for people here, we had to grow healthcare, life sciences, tech," he said, noting that just 30 years ago, eight in 10 jobs in the city depended on the hydrocarbon industry. - Blessing or curse - The state has always had an embarrassment of oil riches. With 30 million Texans, the state is the second most populous after California and home to the largest oil reserves of the world's biggest petroleum producer. But this underground blessing has at times been a "curse." As many developing countries have experienced, the abundance of one commodity often discourages investment in other industries and linking their fate to a single industry. The last oil slump was in 2014, when prices for benchmark crude sunk from $107 to $44 in just six months, causing painful layoffs. The damage was widespread. Story continues "We had to shift. It was not lucrative to work in an industry where there were too many people looking for work," said AJ Mahmoud of the recruiting firm Michael Page. Just a few years ago, the energy sector accounted for 95 percent of the positions the company filled in Texas, compared to just five percent globally. The company now focuses on construction and real estate. At the same time, energy accounts for a shrinking share of the state economy, slipping to just 8.5 percent in the final quarter of last year from 13.4 percent in the second quarter of 2014. And while Silicon Valley is more than 1,500 miles away, greater Houston and its population of about seven million have made a striking foray into the tech sector. - Going high tech - Station Houston, a 25,000-square-foot (2,300-square-meter) startup hub that opened downtown three years ago, has become a symbol of this renewal. Inside, the leaders of 180 budding enterprises gather and receive advice from mentors or talk to investors. The offices are draped in garish colors, feature open-plan workspaces and sit in the middle of the "innovation district," a neighborhood embodying local authorities' hopes for the new economy. "Our mission is to transform Houston into a world-leading technology and innovation capital," said Payal Patel, head of business development at Station Houston. This is far from a done deal, however. Houston, and the other two big cities in Texas -- Austin and Dallas -- are far behind major US metropolitan areas, such as San Francisco and New York, in attracting startup capital. And despite its shiny new electronics and modern image, Station Houston is still tied to the old ways: 40 percent of its startups linked to the energy business and oil titan Exxon Mobil supported the creation of the center. Nevertheless, "Houston has moved away from the oil curse," said Andy Lipow of Lipow Oil Associates. "We have diversified so much over the years. If oil hits $30 again, the Houston economy will be impacted but not as it could have been in the '80s and '90s." Let battle commence. (Warner Bros.) Godzilla vs Kong will be a mismatched David vs Goliath style battle, with the 104-foot ape relying on his intelligence to match up with the 350-foot lizard in the 2020 film. Director Michael Dougherty whose film Godzilla: King of the Monsters - a sequel to both 2014s Godzilla and 2017s Kong: Skull Island - arrives in cinemas this Wednesday (29 May), co-wrote Godzilla vs Kong and he says the beasts will be fairly well-matched by the time they meet on screen. Speaking to Bloody Disgusting, Dougherty explained that King Kong will have grown in size since the last time he appeared on screen in the 1970s-set Skull Island. Were looking at an almost David vs. Goliath situation. Because everyone, the moment you say Godzillas going to fight Kong, your first reaction is Kong doesnt stand a chance. Godzillas got his radioactive breath, et cetera, et cetera. Read more: Early buzz for Godzilla 2 But then if you really take the time to look at Kong as a character, its like, okay, in Skull Island he was an adolescent, so he was still growing. So who knows how big he is since the 1970s when they first met him? Dougherty said. Michael Dougherty arrives at the premiere of "Godzilla: King Of The Monsters", 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Morgan Lieberman/WireImage) While David wasnt a physical match for Goliath in the biblical tale, he was able to outwit the Philistine giant with his tactical nous, which is something Kong will also rely on in the 2020 film. Kong is extremely intelligent, the director shared. As a primate, hes a tool-user. So hes got speed, hes got agility, he might have some good size. And I like a good underdog battle. You know, its like watching Rocky go up against Ivan Drago [in Rocky IV]. It seems like its unfair but clearly, this means the underdog might have a few surprises. As to why theyll battle, its currently unclear. In Godzilla: King of the Monsters, it looks Godzilla will be working with humans to battle rogue titans, so perhaps Kong is just the next job on the lizards titan-busting docket. I think theres something primal in human beings to want to see a fight like that, Dougherty said. Its just part of who we are as a species. Half the reason I think people watch the Planet Earth nature specials is to watch animals going up against each other, to see crocodiles going up against water buffaloes. Story continues So theres that, but it just seems like its written in the stars for this to happen. Its no accident that Kong was a direct inspiration for Godzilla, that the Japanese filmmakers watched King Kong and were hugely inspired by him and The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms and came up with Godzilla as an answer to that. So it just seems like its destiny. King Kong has changed size many times since the character was first shown on screen in 1933 as a 24 foot tall ape. Back in 2017, Kong: Skull Island director Jordan Vogt-Roberts admitted to Yahoo that Kong had been scaled up in anticipation of his forthcoming showdown with Godzilla, who was at least 350 feet tall in Gareth Evans 2014 film. The giant ape terrorises the village on Skull Island in the movie 'King Kong', 1933. (Photo by Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images) A lot of people want to say hes just big because you want him to fight Godzilla and its funny because yeah, sure theres ultimately some truth in that to some degree, but one of my first mandates was I dont want him to be a big gorilla, I dont want him to be anatomically correct, I want him to be a biped again. Read more: Toy Story 4 plot hole? I wanted to turn him back into that classic movie monster, but then I also wanted to make him bigger because I wanted you or I to be able to look at him and not just say oh, thats a big gorilla or a big ape, but to have your first reaction, your very first one, your fundamental response, instinctually, the first synapse in your brain to fire and say thats a god. Im looking at a god. In 1962s King Kong vs. Godzilla, Kong emerges victorious from a closely-fought battle atop Mount Fuji. Godzilla: King of the Monsters is in cinemas from Wednesday, 29 May. Godzilla vs Kong will come to cinemas, March 2020. Beirut (AFP) - Human Rights Watch on Tuesday accused both Egyptian security forces and insurgents of committing "war crimes" in North Sinai, the scene of a bloody years-long insurgency and military crackdown. "While Egyptian military and police forces were responsible for the majority of abuses documented in the report, extremist militants have also committed horrific crimes," the New York-based group said in a 134-page report. "Some of the abuses carried out by government forces and the militants, which this report documents, are war crimes, and their widespread and systematic nature could amount to crimes against humanity." Egypt has for years been fighting a hardened insurgency in North Sinai, which escalated following the 2013 military ouster of Islamist president Mohamed Morsi. Since then, militants have killed hundreds of police officers and soldiers. Military spokesman Colonel Tamer al-Rifai rejected the HRW report as "untruthful". "It is based on unverified sources. Some politicised organisations are intent on tarnishing Egypt's image and its armed forces with baseless claims," he told AFP. In February 2018, the army launched an operation against the militants, focusing mainly on North Sinai province. According to a tally of death tolls given by the armed forces, around 650 militants and about 45 soldiers have since been killed. HRW estimated at least 3,076 alleged militants and 1,226 security forces were killed in fighting between 2014 and 2018. The watchdog compiled the report over two years, interviewing more than 50 residents of the Sinai Peninsula, where independent media coverage is effectively banned and a state of emergency has been in force since 2013. In late 2017, North Sinai was the scene of the deadliest attack in Egypt's modern history when militants killed more than 300 worshippers at a mosque, without any group claiming responsibility. Islamist militants have kidnapped and tortured scores of residents as well as attacking security forces. Story continues Security forces have also targeted Sinai residents, arresting thousands and forcibly "disappearing" dozens, according to the HRW report. It estimates that over 12,000 people were arrested from July 2013 until December 2018. Children as young as 12 have been detained in routine sweeps and ended up in secret prisons, it said. Alongside the report, a video was released showing footage of air strikes on residents' homes and extrajudicial killings of suspected jihadists by security forces. "Why all of this? Should we carry weapons and work with the militants or work with the army or live like victims? Everyone is preying on us," said one North Sinai resident interviewed anonymously for the report. Rifai, the military spokesman, said Egypt's forces had taken the lives of residents into consideration with "air strikes taking place outside of residential areas". HRW called on the United States to halt all military assistance to Egypt until gross violations are fully investigated. "Instead of protecting Sinai residents in their fight against militants, the Egyptian security forces have shown utter contempt to residents' lives, turning their daily life into a nonstop nightmare of abuses," said Michael Page, the group's deputy Middle East director. "This horrific treatment of Sinai residents should be another wake-up call to countries like the US and France that heedlessly endorse Egypt's counterterrorism efforts." By Sumeet Chatterjee HONG KONG (Reuters) - HSBC Holdings PLC plans to boost its Asia retail wealth management staff by about 300 by end of this year, with Europe's biggest lender by assets sharpening its focus on Singapore to add to its presence in core markets of Hong Kong and China. London-headquartered HSBC, which makes more than 80% of its profit in Asia, will boost its wealth staff in Singapore by 50 and launch new digital offerings this year, said Kevin Martin, Asia Pacific head of retail banking and wealth management. While HSBC did not disclose its wealth management headcount in Singapore at present, the bank's business of offering advice and investment products to affluent clients in the city-state is smaller compared to its presence in China and Hong Kong. "It's fair to say that our entire business in Singapore underperformed, and we haven't hidden from that fact," Martin told Reuters in a recent interview, referring to the bank's retail banking and wealth management unit. "As we build Asia wealth ... there is a really significant opportunity in Singapore, not just onshore Singapore, but offshore Singapore," he said, adding the bank expects the country to be a "growth engine" over the next few years. HSBC's retail banking and wealth management division serves clients with less than $5 million of investable assets, while those with more than that threshold are taken up by the bank's private banking unit. Chief Executive John Flint last year said building a leading wealth management business, mainly in Greater China and Southeast Asia, was key for accelerated revenue growth in Asia, where individual wealth is growing at the fastest pace globally. Singapore's high net worth population, those with investable assets of $1 million or more, rose 11.5% in 2017, as per consultant Capgemini's latest wealth report, ahead of China's 11.2%, Japan's 9.4% and Australia's 9.2%. Story continues Of respondents in a survey conducted by trade publication Asian Private Banker in July last year, 58% ranked Singapore as the most preferred offshore wealth management hub, followed by Hong Kong, Switzerland and London. HSBC is looking to target both onshore as well as offshore clients, with a large number of rich individuals in China, India and other Southeast Asian nations looking for wealth management services in Singapore, Martin said. In Singapore, HSBC will compete with global rivals such as Citigroup Inc and Standard Chartered PLC, as well as Southeast Asia's biggest lender DBS Group Holdings Ltd which has a strong presence in the mass-affluent wealth management business. As part of its plans to grow its Asia wealth business, HSBC also intends to ramp up its insurance distribution and product offerings in Hong Kong, China and Singapore this year, Martin said. HSBC's life insurance business within the wealth management unit posted 66% growth in revenue to $793 million in the first quarter of this year compared to the year-earlier period. "We are not even partly done in terms of the upside for insurance ... And as we have increased distribution, provided all products and put digital capabilities in place and promoted the brand, the growth you see will continue." (Reporting by Sumeet Chatterjee; Editing by Christopher Cushing) The Met Police have reminded road users that motorised scooters are illegal in the UK. (Twitter/Met Police) The number of commuters on scooters in the UK (especially London) seems to have hit a peak. But did you know if you get a little motorised help with your journey youre breaking the law? The Met Police took to Twitter to post images of two motorised scooters that they seized as it is not legal to use them on roads or pavements - but why? Despite being used by police in trials in the past Segways are also illegal for highways use without safety equipment, road tax and insurance. (PA) Why are they illegal on roads? The Department for Transport classifies electric scooters as personal light electric vehicles as they are motor powered, and ruled they can only be used on private property unless riders have a driving licence, insurance, helmet, road tax and a registration plate. Segways are also subjected to the same restrictions but electric bikes limited to 13.5mph can be used legally. However, the the DVLA refuses to provide registration plates for unroadworthy vehicles. Can I use them on a pavement? No. Under the Highways Act of 1835 you are prohibited from riding a carriage on the pavement. And guess what. That includes your scooters. What happens if I use it anyway? Youll be prosecuted. In October 2017 a 16-year-old boy was handed six penalty points for his future driving licence at Teesside Magistrates Court after he was court using an e-scooter at high speed. Other courts have imposed fines, and in London police have been seizing the vehicles. Please be aware that Mechanically Propelled Scooters are illegal and cant be used on roads. If you know someone that uses one, let them know. If stopped, riders face the possibility of it being seized, having points on their licence and/or being fined. #VisionZero @SuptAndyCox pic.twitter.com/ymyCH9Egqn Cycle Safety Team (@MetCycleCops) May 28, 2019 Read more from Yahoo News UK: Story continues Jeremy Hunt says no deal political suicide for Tories Albino panda caught on camera for first time Spice Girls fans demand refund over diabolical sound Will this change? MP Jesse Norman told the Observer the laws need to be revised to help encourage people to leave their cars behind. In Los Angeles, and many other cities around the world there is a public hire system. However, there are safety fears - in Barcelona a 90-year-old woman died after she was hit by someone traveling 30kph. And in December Madrid banned the scooters. It seems the jury is out. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo UK The Illinois House on Tuesday passed a bill that would repeal the states previous partial-birth-abortion ban and require that insurance providers cover contraception and abortion services. The Reproductive Health Act, which passed 6450, removes virtually all restrictions on late-term abortions and the penalties currently imposed on doctors who perform them. The legislation must now receive majority support in the state Senate before it can be signed into law. The bills proponents have argued that the legislation codifies existing practice and is necessary in light of the recent passage of restrictive abortion laws in a number of Republican-controlled states, as well as the conservative majority on the Supreme Court, which many pro-choice activists are concerned might overturn Roe v. Wade. RHA codifies our existing practices and and this is critical treats abortion care just like any other health care, because it is, said the bills sponsor, state representative Kelly Cassidy (D., Chicago). Make no mistake, it doesnt end here. Since Roe was decided in 1973, our opponents have fought to impede access to care and these efforts have the greatest impact on the most vulnerable population. Illinois Republican party chairman Tim Schneider said the legislation was reflective of the Democratic partys recent embrace of abortion extremism. In just a few short years, the Democrat party in Illinois went from advocating safe, legal and rare to abortion on-demand, at any time, for any reason, and funded by taxpayers, he said in a statement. This is not the typical pro-life vs. pro-choice debate I have been accustomed to in my lifetime. The RHA goes much further. Six states have passed increased restrictions on abortions in recent weeks. Alabama governor Kay Ivey signed the nations most restrictive abortion law earlier this month, effectively banning the practice entirely, including in cases of rape and incest. Ivey admitted that the law is likely unenforceable but argued it was important step toward overturning Roe V. Wade via the courts. Story continues Georgia governor Brian Kemp also recently signed a law banning abortion after a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which usually occurs around six weeks. And the last remaining abortion clinic in Missouri is about to be shuttered by state authorities who have refused to renew its license as they prepare to implement similarly restrictive legislation. More from National Review Vice President Mike Pence has commended the Supreme Court for upholding a part of an Indiana law requiring the burial of foetal remains after abortions. Now he's encouraging the court to review state laws that restrict when and why an abortion can be performed, and says he hopes that "legal protections against discrimination based on sex, race, or disability will someday be extended to unborn Americans." Mr Pence signed the burial measure into law in 2016, when he was governor of Indiana. On Tuesday, the Supreme Court upheld a requirement that foetal remains must be buried or cremated after abortion. But it blocked an Indiana law barring abortions based on a foetus' sex, race or disability, prompting Mr Pence to cite Justice Clarence Thomas's position on the ruling in his hopes that Supreme Court will return to the decision. Justice Thomas joined the court in declining to review Indiana's law, but issued a 20-page statement in line with the vice president's, in which he agreed that the ruling is constitutional but condemned its practical application. He accused those who use abortion procedures, as well as birth control, of practising "eugenics." "Given the potential for abortion to become a tool of eugenic manipulation, the Court will soon need to confront the constitutionality of laws like Indianas," he wrote. "But because further percolation may assist our review of this issue of first impression, I join the Court in declining to take up the issue now." The Indiana law first came to the Supreme Court's docket in January, and the early summer decision marks a lengthy period of internal strife over it. Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg said they would have declined to take up both aspects of the law, including the burials. Abortions rights advocates have condemned the burial law. Today the court let another unwarranted restriction on abortion stand. While this ruling is limited, the law is part of a larger trend of state laws designed to stigmatize and drive abortion care out of reach," Jennifer Dalven, director of the ACLU Reproductive Freedom Project, said in a statement. Tehran (AFP) - A woman jailed in Iran for one year for removing her hijab in public to protest against the country's Islamic dress code has been released early, her lawyer said Tuesday. "Vida Movahedi was summoned by prison authorities on Sunday evening and told that her sentence had been commuted, and combined with some accumulated furlough she was free to go," Payam Derafshan told AFP. Movahedi, who is in her mid-20s, was arrested in October after removing her hijab from her head at Tehran's Enghelab Square. She was charged with "encouraging corruption and debauchery" and sentenced by a court in Tehran to 12 months in prison on March 2, Derafshan added. The lawyer said Movahedi had stated her opposition to the "compulsory hijab" and that she wanted to express her opinion in "a civil protest". Under the Islamic dress code, women can only show their face, hands and feet in public and are supposed to wear only modest colours. Movahedi has staged protests in the past. In December 2017, she stood on a pillar box on Enghelab Avenue without the mandatory long coat and raised her white veil on a stick. Enghelab means revolution in Farsi and the square and avenue are among the busiest areas in the capital. Movahedi's move sparked similar protests by other women, including some at the same spot, and they soon won recognition as "Dokhtaran-e enghelab", or the Girls of Revolution Street. Like other women who copied her, she was arrested, but she was only fined for her first protest. GENEVA, May 28 (Reuters) - Iran's "absolute power" in its region has sapped the capacity of arch-enemy the United States to wage war against it, the commander of its elite Revolutionary Guards said on Tuesday, according to semi-official Mehr news agency. He was speaking a day after U.S. President Donald Trump said he was not seeking regime change in Iran following moves to beef up U.S. forces in the Middle East, and that a new deal on Iran's nuclear program was possible. We have been able to...empty the enemy's capacity for war. You see the decline and crash of the enemies' speech," Major General Hossein Salami said, apparently alluding to Trump's remarks during a visit to Japan. "Today, Iran is an absolute power of the region and because of this it is not afraid of the enemys threats. Today, America has been defeated in its political philosophy. Trump appeared to soften his tone toward Iran, saying he believed it wanted to make a deal, crediting heavy U.S. economic sanctions against the Islamic Republic. We arent looking for regime change - I just want to make that clear. We are looking for no nuclear weapons. Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States after an attack earlier this month on oil tankers in the Gulf. Washington, a close ally of Irans regional rival Saudi Arabia, blamed the attacks on Tehran, which denied the accusations. (Reporting by Babak Dehghanpisheh Editing by Mark Heinrich) Dubai (AFP) - Regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia hosts Islamic, Arab and Gulf summits this week as tensions between Iran and the US raise fears of military escalation. The three summits in Mecca, Islam's holiest city, allow US ally Riyadh the chance to present unified Islamic, Arab and Gulf fronts against its arch-rival Tehran. Iran itself has not yet confirmed whether it will attend the meeting of the Organisation of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC), of which it is a member. Hussein Ibish, a scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, said Riyadh's aim was "to consolidate Arab and Muslim support, anticipating intensified confrontation or diplomacy". Washington has reinstated tough sanctions against Tehran and decided to deploy 1,500 more troops to the Middle East amid sabotage attacks on oil facilities. Two Saudi oil tankers, among four vessels, were the targets of mysterious acts of sabotage off the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this month, and Iran-aligned Yemeni rebels have stepped up drone attacks on the kingdom -- one of which resulted in the temporary shutdown of a major oil pipeline. Tehran has repeatedly threatened to close the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which 35 percent of the world's seaborne oil passes. The Arab League and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) emergency summits called by Saudi Arabia are to be held on Thursday, a day before the long-scheduled OIC summit. It is not yet clear how many countries will take part in the emergency gatherings, but Qatar -- which has been boycotted by a Saudi-led alliance -- has been invited to attend the GCC meeting. Riyadh cut diplomatic ties with Tehran in 2016 after protesters stormed Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran following its execution of a prominent Shiite cleric. - No easy task - The OIC summit will address "current issues in the Muslim world" and "recent developments in a number of OIC member states", the official agenda states. Story continues Saudi Arabia and its allies have repeatedly accused Iran of interfering in the affairs of other countries, including Bahrain, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen, by supporting and arming fighters. "Unity and coordination of positions are necessary at this critical time, and Riyadh... is qualified to play that role," the UAE minister of state for foreign affairs, Anwar Gargash, tweeted last week. But the kingdom's aim of a unified Islamic, Arab and Gulf position is likely to be difficult to achieve. Qatar has grown closer to Iran, while Kuwait has expressed concern over Iranian threats to close the Strait of Hormuz. Oman, which has good ties with both Iran and the United States, has said it and other parties "seek to calm tensions" between the two countries. Ahead of the summits, Iran's top diplomats have been touring the region, including Iraq, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar. Iran, which shares a border with Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq and Turkey, also has good relations with Ankara and Islamabad. The Islamic republic supports political groups in Lebanon, Iraq and Syria. "Several countries may not like Iran and its regional misbehaviour but may prefer to avoid a confrontational or condemning stance," said Simon Henderson, a researcher at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. - 'Bargaining power' - Saudi Arabia and the US have accused Iran of being the mastermind behind the Yemeni rebels' attack on a major pipeline, while an investigation has been launched into the attacks on ships off the UAE. The US Central Command, which oversees American military operations in the Middle East, has between 60,000 and 80,000 troops deployed in the area. On Friday, US President Donald Trump bypassed Congress to sell $8.1 billion in arms to Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies, citing an alleged threat from Iran. "Resuming its (Iran's) nuclear activities, making its presence felt in the region, and disrupting Saudi or Emirati oil exports could all be ways of enhancing its bargaining power," the International Crisis Group said in a report. "But if these manoeuvres are a diplomatic game, it is a dangerous one: either side could misinterpret the other's intentions." Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir has said his country does not want to go to war with Iran but was ready to defend its interests. Baghdad (AFP) - A Baghdad court sentenced two more Frenchmen to death Tuesday for joining the Islamic State jihadist group, raising the number of French IS members on death row in Iraq to six. Brahim Nejara and Karam El Harchaoui, both in their 30s, were among 12 French citizens transferred to Iraqi authorities in January by a US-backed force fighting the jihadist group in Syria. The court's ruling came despite France reiterating its opposition to capital punishment after a series of similar rulings this week against French citizens handed over to Baghdad. In recent months, Iraq has taken custody of thousands of jihadists, including foreigners, captured in neighbouring Syria by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) during the battle to destroy the IS "caliphate". Four other French citizens -- Kevin Gonot, Leonard Lopez, Salim Machou and Mustapha Merzoughi -- have been given death sentences in recent days by a Baghdad court. Nejara, 33, was involved in IS's foreign fighter operations, according to the French Terrorism Analysis Center. He allegedly helped foreign fighters join IS in Syria, persuaded one of his brothers to commit an attack in France, and was associated with Foued Mohamed-Aggad, one of the suicide bombers at the Bataclan theatre during the 2015 Paris attacks. Harchaoui, 32, left for Syria in 2014 from Belgium. According to Belgian daily HLN, his younger brother and their Belgian wives were also IS members. They have 30 days to appeal. The remaining six face trial in the coming days under a law that allows capital punishment for anyone joining a "terrorist group" -- even those who did not take up arms. The trials have been criticised by rights groups, which say they often rely on evidence obtained through torture. They have also raised the question of whether suspected IS jihadists should be tried in the region or repatriated. France has long insisted that its adult citizens captured in Iraq or Syria must face trial locally, refusing to repatriate them despite the risk they could receive death sentences. Story continues On Tuesday Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said he had reminded Iraqi President Barham Saleh that "we are opposed to the death penalty". "We are increasing the steps to avoid the death penalty for these four French citizens," he told France Inter radio. The Iraqi judiciary said earlier in May that it had tried and sentenced more than 500 suspected foreign members of IS since the start of 2018. Its courts have condemned many to life in prison and others to death, although no foreign IS members have yet been executed. The country remains in the top five "executioner" nations in the world, an Amnesty International report said in April. Baghdad (AFP) - A Baghdad court sentenced two more Frenchmen to death Tuesday for joining the Islamic State jihadist group, raising the number of French IS members on death row in Iraq to six. Brahim Nejara and Karam El Harchaoui, both in their 30s, were among 12 French citizens transferred to Iraqi authorities in January by a US-backed force fighting the jihadist group in Syria. The court's decision came despite France reiterating its opposition to capital punishment after a series of similar rulings this week against French citizens handed over to Baghdad. In recent months, Iraq has taken custody of thousands of jihadists, including foreigners, captured in neighbouring Syria by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) during the battle to destroy the IS "caliphate". Four other French citizens -- Kevin Gonot, Leonard Lopez, Salim Machou and Mustapha Merzoughi -- have been given death sentences in recent days by a Baghdad court. Nejara, 33, was involved in IS's foreign fighter operations, according to the French Terrorism Analysis Center. He allegedly helped foreign fighters join IS in Syria, persuaded one of his brothers to commit an attack in France, and was associated with Foued Mohamed-Aggad, one of the suicide bombers at the Bataclan theatre during the 2015 Paris attacks. - 'Opposed to death penalty' - In court, he told the judge "he left from France to Syria in his car in 2014", the year IS declared its self-styled "caliphate" and called on supporters around the world to pledge their allegiance. "My wife, my daughter and my brother-in-law were with me," added Nejara, wearing a yellow prison uniform. He insisted he had been forced to appear in an IS propaganda video threatening France in the wake of the attacks in Paris. Harchaoui, 32, left for Syria in 2014 from Belgium. According to Belgian daily HLN, his younger brother and their Belgian wives were also IS members. Story continues Visibly stressed, he told the judge he was "innocent". "I didn't enter Iraq and I didn't participate in any combat either in Syria or Iraq," he added. They have 30 days to appeal. The remaining six French suspects face trial in the coming days under a law that allows capital punishment for anyone joining a "terrorist group" -- even those who did not take up arms. The trials have been criticised by rights groups, which say they often rely on evidence obtained through torture. They have also raised the question of whether suspected IS jihadists should be tried in the region or repatriated. In a statement sent to AFP, a group representing the families of French jihadists asked the government in Paris to "do everything possible to stop this fatal chain of death sentences" and to try them "on our soil". France has long insisted that its adult citizens captured in Iraq or Syria must face trial locally, refusing to repatriate them despite the risk they could receive death sentences. On Tuesday Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said he had reminded Iraqi President Barham Saleh that "we are opposed to the death penalty". - 'Executioner' - Human rights groups have denounced the risk of "torture" and unfair trials in Iraq, ranked the 12th most corrupt country in the world. The Iraqi judiciary said earlier in May that it had tried and sentenced more than 500 suspected foreign members of IS since the start of 2018. Its courts have condemned many to life in prison and others to death, although no foreign IS members have yet been executed. The country remains in the top five "executioner" nations in the world, an Amnesty International report said in April. Trials are set Wednesday for 29-year-old Yassin Sakkam, one of the most prominent French members of IS, and Mohammed Berriri, 24, the youngest of the 12 French jihadists held in Iraq. Fodil Tahar Aouidate, who appeared in court Monday, will return for trial on June 2 to give time for a medical examination ordered after he claimed to have been beaten by interrogators. Vianney Ouraghi, Bilel Kabaoui and Mourad Delhomme, who also appeared in court Monday, are set to return on June 3. DUBLIN (Reuters) - Ireland has reappointed the head of its powerful Data Protection Commission, which regulates the European operations of global tech giants like Facebook and Google, for a second five-year term. Ireland hosts the European headquarters of a number of U.S. technology firms. That makes the Irish commissioner, headed by Helen Dixon, the lead regulator in the bloc under the EU's General Data Protection Regulation's (GDPR) "One Stop Shop" regime introduced last year. The new rules give regulators the power to impose fines for violations of up to 4% of a company's global revenue or 20 million euros ($22 million), whichever is higher. Since her appointment in 2014, Data Protection Commissioner Dixon has roughly quadrupled the staff and budget of the regulator. Irish Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan said Dixon was overseeing a number of significant investigations and it was "crucial that she be allowed to see them through to completion." Critics like privacy campaigner Max Schrems, however, have accused Dixon and her office of being too soft on the internet giants, a charge she and the Irish government have repeatedly rejected. Dixon's office has 51 large-scale investigations under way, 17 of which relate to large technology platforms, including seven into Facebook. The probes spanned the services of Facebook subsidiaries WhatsApp and Instagram as well as Apple, LinkedIn and Twitter with the first sets of investigations due to conclude over the summer. "At this early but critical juncture of GDPR implementation and enforcement, continuity is important to drive clarity for organisations," Dixon said in a statement. (Reporting by Conor Humphries; Editing by Susan Fenton) BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Ireland's Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said he believed the risk of Britain crashing out of the bloc without any divorce agreement was growing with the British Conservatives set to choose a new leader. "Well I think there is a growing risk of a no deal. There's a possibility that the new British prime minister may try to repudiate the withdrawal agreement," he told reporters before a meeting of EU leaders in Brussels on Tuesday. Varadkar also said he would support center-right candidate Manfred Weber for the next European Commission President because he came from the party family in parliament that won the most seats. (Reporting By Jan Strupczewski; editing by Philip Blenkinsop) Jerusalem (AFP) - Israel edged closer to snap polls as a bill to dissolve parliament passed its first reading in the early hours of Tuesday morning, despite a general election last month. Pitched into chaos by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's failure to form a governing coalition after the April polls, the Knesset voted 66 to 44 in favour of a new election, tentatively scheduled for September 17, the parliament's website said. Later on Tuesday a committee was to meet to prepare the bill for its second and third readings, which if passed would make the bill law. No timetable was published for the two final votes on the legislation, which had passed an initial reading Monday night. Netanyahu's Likud party submitted the bill to dissolve parliament Monday as a Wednesday night deadline to form a viable coalition loomed with negotiations deadlocked. Ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman has blocked a deal by refusing to budge from a key demand -- and he showed no sign of backing down on Monday. Lieberman is seeking a guarantee that legislation aimed at having ultra-Orthodox Jews perform mandatory military service -- like other Jewish Israelis -- be approved without changes. His party controls five seats in parliament and Netanyahu needs his support for the coalition he is seeking. If a deal is not reached by Wednesday night's deadline, Israeli President Reuven Rivlin could give Netanyahu another two weeks if he concludes the premier is the only person capable of forming a government. Alternatively, Rivlin could ask another member of parliament to take on the task. Netanyahu is widely seen as preferring new elections rather than leaving the choice up to Rivlin, due to the possibility someone else could be selected. Netanyahu could also seek to form a minority government. Jerusalem (AFP) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urgently worked to break a deadlock in coalition negotiations Tuesday as the once far-fetched possibility of fresh general elections only months after April polls loomed ever larger. Netanyahu has until Wednesday night to reach a coalition deal, but he has been unable to convince ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman to abandon a key demand and allow a government to be formed. Failing to do so would be a major setback for Netanyahu, and the stakes are especially high with the premier facing possible indictment for corruption in the months ahead. There have been reports that Netanyahu is seeking legislation in the new parliament that would result in him receiving immunity from prosecution, and new elections would delay those efforts and may make it impossible. Beyond that, he faces the risk of Israeli President Reuven Rivlin opting to give the task of forming a new government to someone other than him. Late Tuesday, a parliamentary committee approved the wording of the bill to dissolve itself and hold new elections, the Knesset said in a statement, with the two further votes needed to finalise it scheduled to take place Wednesday afternoon. The prime minister has sought to pile pressure on Lieberman, whose nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party's five seats are crucial to the coalition Netanyahu wants to form, but he has refused to back down. - 'Principles and promises' - The dispute hinges on Lieberman's demand that legislation he supports aimed at having ultra-Orthodox Jews perform mandatory military service like other Jewish Israelis be approved without changes. The issue is highly sensitive in Israel and the legislation is opposed by ultra-Orthodox parties, who control 16 seats in parliament and are set to become a key member of Netanyahu's coalition. "We are not looking to bring down Netanyahu and we are not looking for an alternative candidate, but we will not give up our principles and promises to the citizens of the state of Israel," Lieberman wrote on his Facebook page on Tuesday. Story continues Netanyahu said in an address late Monday that Lieberman was being unreasonable and that there was "no reason to drag the country to unnecessary elections that will cost a fortune and paralyse us all for another half a year." US President Donald Trump also tweeted in support of Netanyahu on Monday, while the White House announced Tuesday that his son-in-law Jared Kushner would visit Jerusalem later this week along with Morocco and Jordan. Kushner's visit is likely to include talks on Trump's upcoming Israeli-Palestinian peace plan ahead of an economic conference related to it on June 25-26 in Bahrain. His stop in Jerusalem may be overshadowed by Israel's domestic politics. - Long rivalry - While Lieberman has made his stand on the military conscription issue -- one he has long championed -- his dispute with Netanyahu also runs much deeper. The two men have been both allies and rivals for much of their political careers, with Lieberman serving as head of the prime minister's office during part of Netanyahu's first term beginning in 1996. He later broke away from the Likud to form his own party, which relies in large part on votes from Israelis who, like him, have roots in the former Soviet Union. He has served in a range of ministerial positions both under Netanyahu and others. His party's five seats won in April 9 elections are just enough to torment Netanyahu. Likud and its right-wing and religious allies won a total of 65 seats in the 120-seat parliament in the polls. Without Lieberman, Netanyahu will struggle to form an effective coalition. If a deal is not reached by midnight Wednesday, Rivlin could give Netanyahu another two weeks if he concludes the premier is the only person capable of forming a government. Alternatively, Rivlin could ask another member of parliament to take on the task. Netanyahu is widely seen as preferring new elections rather than leaving the choice up to Rivlin due to the possibility someone else could be selected. He could also seek to form a minority government. At a secretariat meeting Tuesday the Likud approved joining the four-seat centrist Kulanu headed by Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon to their list in case of early elections, in another indication of preparedness and willingness to face polls again. "Our unity has brought us victory against the media and Left," Netanyahu told Likud members at the meeting. "We'll continue together, no matter what, and win together." (For a live blog on European stocks, type LIVE/ in an Eikon news window) May 28 (Reuters) - Italian stocks fell more than half a percent on Tuesday, pulling European stock markets lower, as concerns about the country's budget deficit overshadowed news of talks on a merger of Fiat-Chrysler and Renault. By 0725 GMT, the pan-region STOXX 600 was roughly flat, undoing earlier gains, while Milan's bank-heavy FTMIB index fell 0.6%. Sources told Reuters on Monday that the European Commission was likely to start disciplinary procedures against Italy next week for breaking European Union debt rules, pushing bond yields higher and adding to worries for banking creditors. London's FTSE 100, however, rose 0.3% as mining company shares gained on the back of a rise in Chinese iron ore prices. In a light day on corporate news and absent new headlines on U.S.-China trade issues, auto stocks built on Monday's gains on hopes of a Fiat Chrysler-Renault merger. Both car makers climbed more than 1%. French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said France must protect its own interests and jobs in any merger between the tow companies, even though France's stake in Renault would automatically be diluted. (Reporting by Medha Singh and Agamoni Ghosh in Bengaluru; editing by Patrick Graham) Rome (AFP) - Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said Tuesday he expected Brussels to slap Rome with a three billion-euro ($3.36 billion) fine over the country's rising debt and structural deficit levels. "At a time when youth unemployment touches 50 percent in some regions... someone in Brussels is demanding, under the old rules, a fine of three billion euros," he told RTL 102.5 radio. "All my energy will go into changing these rules from the past," said Salvini, whose far-right League party won Sunday's European Parliament elections in Italy. "We will see if this little letter from Brussels in which they sanction us for debt accumulated in the past arrives," he said. The European Commission is expected to start disciplinary steps against Italy on June 5 by opening an excessive deficit procedure which could hand Italy a fine of up to 0.2 percent of the nation's GDP. Brussels is set to send a letter to Rome on Wednesday asking for details on its debt plans, a European source said. "As expected, the European Commission will update its assessment of the economic and fiscal situation of every member state as part of the European semester of economic policy coordination," a Commission spokesperson said. "This includes issuing a new set of country-specific recommendations for national policies for the next 12 to 18 months... in the light of the latest info, such as the national programmes, the latest data and our recent economic forecast". Italy's public debt is a big problem, sitting at 132.2 percent of the country's GDP in 2018 -- way above the 60 percent EU ceiling. The League and its Five Star Movement coalition partner rowed bitterly with Brussels at the end of last year over their big-spending 2019 budget, which the European Commission rejected in a historic first. Both sides then made compromises to get the budget over the line. But in the Commission's latest economic forecasts, published in early May, Italy is ranked as the eurozone's worst performer, with growth well below other countries and debt at a record level. Waterfront restaurant Lido 84 in northern Italy has been named a rising star on the international gastronomy scene by the tastemakers at World's 50 Best Restaurants. Brothers Riccardo and Giancarlo Camanini have been bestowed with the "Miele One To Watch Award 2019" by organizers of one of the most influential restaurant rankings in the industry, five years after opening their family restaurant on Lake Garda in Gardone Riviera. While Giancarlo heads the front of house, chef Riccardo steers the kitchen where he oversees the contemporary Italian menu which aims to showcase the region's local ingredients and artisanal products -- Bagoss cheese, raw mountain milk, sardines, eel, olive oil, lemons, Stracchino cheese and Wisteria flowers. Diners have the choice of two tasting menus: the first is a six-course meal that serves up classic Italian dishes and flavors and focuses on balance and harmony. For diners with more adventurous palates, the second option is a seven-course meal that is more experimental, bold and surprising. The restaurant also attracts guests for Camanini's signature dish, cacio e pepe en vessie, rigatoni cooked inside a pig's bladder with pecorino cheese, resulting in a creamy, aromatic and theatrical pasta dish. Before opening his own restaurant with his brother, Riccardo worked the gastronomic circuit, first in the UK with chef Raymond Blanc, and later in Paris. He returned to Italy and oversaw the kitchen at Hotel Villa Fiordaliso in Gardone Riviera for over 15 years. Lido 84 follows SingleThread in California, Disfrutar in Spain and Den in Japan in being named rising stars by the World's 50 Best Restaurants group. The 2019 ranking will be announced in Singapore on June 25. Rome (AFP) - Italy's right-wing coalition has taken the wealthy Piedmont region from the left, definitive election results showed Tuesday, increasing the chances a controversial high-speed rail link will go ahead. Matteo Salvini's anti-immigration League, the small far-right Brothers of Italy party, and Silvio Berlusconi's centre-right Forza Italia won nearly 50 percent of votes in the northwest region, compared to 36 percent taken by a left-wing coalition. The anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S), which is governing Italy with the League party, did particularly badly, pocketing just over 13 percent. The right now holds all the main regions in the country's rich north, from Liguria to Lombardy, Piedmont and the Veneto. The M5S had been campaigning actively to stop construction of the disputed Turin-Lyon high-speed rail project, holding protests in Piedmont against a project it deems bad for the environment and a waste of public money. The 8.6-billion euro ($9.8-billion) tunnel through the Alps, which has already been partially dug, would reduce travel time between Milan and Paris from almost seven hours to just over four. Proponents of the line, launched nearly 20 years ago and officially scheduled to be finished in 2025, argue that it would rid the roads of a million trucks and avert some three million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year. The right-wing coalition which has seized Piedmont had voted in favour of the project. Weakened by a poor performance at the European elections, M5S head Luigi Di Maio appeared to soften his stance on the rail link on Monday, saying the dossier was now in the hands of the prime minister. Preliminary tenders to pursue work on the Franco-Italian project have been launched, but Rome and Paris had six months from March to take another look at the project before making a definitive commitment. Tokyo (AFP) - Men and women who were forcibly sterilised under a now-defunct eugenics law had their bid for compensation rejected on Tuesday by a Japanese court, which said the statute of limitations had passed. The court ruled that the law, which remained in force until 1996, "was unconstitutional", local media said. But it "rejected all claims made by the plaintiffs," a spokeswoman for the Sendai District Court in northern Japan told AFP. Local media said the ruling, which was not immediately available, found the government was not obliged to pay compensation because the 20-year statute of limitations had now passed. Some 16,500 people were sterilised without their consent under the law, which targeted those with disabilities. In April, the government passed legislation offering the victims 3.2 million yen ($29,000) each, an amount derided by campaigners as "failing to meet the seriousness" of the issue. The legislation, and an apology from the prime minister, only emerged after plaintiffs began to file lawsuits over their experiences. After Tuesday's ruling, a supporter of the plaintiffs -- two women who were seeking compensation of 71.5 million yen ($650,000) in total -- rushed out of the courtroom with a banner that read: "Unfair verdict." "We have arrived at this decision of 'unconstitutional', but it is meaningless if it fails to help the suffering of the victims," Koji Niisato, the chief lawyer for the plaintiffs, told reporters. The verdict is "disappointing," he said, adding the plaintiffs will likely appeal to an upper court. The issue hit the headlines last year after a Japanese woman, now in her 60s, sued the government over a sterilisation operation carried out in 1972 after she was diagnosed with a mental disability. Lawyers and campaigners have long criticised the government and parliament for failing to compensate victims after the eugenics law was abandoned. Story continues About 20 victims have so far filed lawsuits across the country seeking compensation of up to 38 million yen. Plaintiffs' lawyers have vowed to seek compensation they say matches the gravity of the harm that victims suffered. Campaigners have also said the government should more clearly distance itself from the notorious law that "has not only hurt the victims but also many disabled people". TOKYO (Reuters) - The forced sterilisation of two women decades ago as teenagers was unconstitutional, a Japanese court said on Tuesday, but rejected their demands for compensation, in the first of about 20 such cases closely watched nationwide, media said. Tens of thousands of people were sterilised, many without their consent, under a government programme aimed at preventing the birth of "inferior descendants" that ran until 1996. Last month, Japan passed a law compensating the victims, many of whom were physically or cognitively disabled, while others suffered from mental illness, leprosy, now a curable disease, or simply grappled with behavioural problems. Tuesday's judgment, in the Sendai district court in northern Japan, was the first in a group of about 20 cases around the country suing the government for violations of human rights and demanding compensation. One of the women is in her 60s and the other in her 70s, and they had demanded compensation of 71.5 million yen ($653,100), national broadcaster NHK said. One of their lawyers told NHK that he was shocked by the compensation rejection, a view shared by one of the plaintiffs. "We've been fighting this for 20 years, but this result has left me speechless," NHK quoted the older woman as saying. It was not immediately clear why the compensation request was denied. Japan adopted the "Eugenics Protection Law" in 1948 as it struggled with food shortages and rebuilding a war-ravaged nation. Before it was revoked, an estimated 25,000 people were sterilized, with at least 16,500 not having given consent to procedures a eugenics panel could approve, often after a cursory review. Few records remain. Sterilizations peaked in the 1960s and 1970s, with the last surgery under the law dating to 1993. Although the most notorious eugenics laws were imposed by Nazi Germany, Japan is not the only nation with similar programs in peacetime. Most other countries revoked such measures in the 1970s. ($1=109.4800 yen) (Reporting by Elaine Lies; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and Darren Schuettler) This aerial photo shows the scene of an attack in Kawasaki, near Tokyo - Kyodo News A schoolgirl and a 39-year-old man were killed and 15 other young girls injured when a knifeman attacked a group of children waiting for a bus to primary school outside Tokyo on Tuesday. The apparently random attack took place in the city of Kawasaki, just south of the capital, as the children waited with their parents at a bus stop at about 7.45am. The suspect, a man in his 50s, was detained at the scene and later died from self-inflicted injuries to his shoulder and neck, national broadcaster NHK reported. Kiyoshi Matsuda, deputy director of the Nippon Medical School Musashi Kosugi Hospital, told reporters that the 11-year-old schoolgirl and a 39-year-old man had succumbed to their injuries. Hanako Kuribayashi, who was in the sixth grade, and foreign ministry official Satoshi Oyama, who is believed to be the parent of another child, both died, police said later. Another woman was severely injured along with the 15 other schoolgirls who were hurt, NHK said. Eyewitnesses report seeing the man, described as being in his 40s or 50s, stabbing the girls with knives in both hands as they waited in line for their school bus. The girls, aged between 6 and 12, were students at a private Catholic school. Rescuers work at the scene of an attack in Kawasaki, near Tokyo Credit: AP "I saw a man holding a knife... I couldn't see clearly, but he apparently stabbed himself in the neck," one eyewitness told NHK. Police have recovered two knives at the scene, but there have been no reports about a motive for the attack. Police are also still trying to identify the suspect. "I heard screaming, then I saw a man standing with a knife in each hand," NHK quoted an unidentified witness as saying. "Then he crumbled to the ground." Images broadcast on Japanese television show police cars, ambulances and fire engines blocking the narrow streets close to the bus stop, in a residential district close to Noborito Station, with large, orange tents set up over the crime scene. Roads around the site have been blocked off. Story continues Police forensic experts are seen at the crime scene where a man stabbed 19 people, including children in Kawasaki Credit: AFP "I heard the sound of lots of ambulances and I saw a man lying near a bus stop bleeding," a male eyewitness, who was not identified, told NHK. "There is another bus stop near the elementary school and I also saw elementary schoolchildren lying on the ground... It's a quiet neighbourhood, it's scary to see this kind of thing happen," he added. Shinzo Abe, the Japanese Prime Minister, voiced "strong anger" over what he described as a "harrowing" attack. "It is a very harrowing case. I feel strong anger. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the victims and hope the injured recover quickly," Mr Abe said in a televised reaction, his first since the attack. US President Donald Trump, who is visiting the country, said Americans "stand with the people of Japan" after the mass stabbing. The attack occurred during the busy early morning commute as workers headed to their offices and children to school in Kawasaki, a city south of Tokyo. Credit: AFP Standing aboard a Japanese military ship, he offered "prayers and sympathy to the victims of the stabbing attack", adding that "all Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and for their families". Japan has one of the lowest rates of violent crime in the developed world and mass attacks are extremely rare. In 2018, a man was arrested in central Japan after stabbing one person to death and injuring two others aboard a bullet train, an attack that prompted new security measures on the famed rail service. And in 2016, a man stabbed 19 people to death in a disability centre south of Tokyo in what he described as a mission to rid the world of people with mental illness. National Security Adviser John Bolton has caused a furor in Beijing by meeting with his counterpart from Taiwan, leading an entire generation of young Americans to ask: Where? Taiwan once loomed large in the American consciousness, and the American Right was particularly solicitous of its well-being. In the political vocabulary of the time, the Republic of China Taiwan was a tiny outpost of freedom menaced by Red China the so-called Peoples Republic. Taiwan is still a thriving republic. China is still a single-party police state, grown perhaps a slightly paler shade of red. But American politics has changed and, to some extent, moved on. Bolton, a movement conservative of Cold War vintage, apparently has not moved on. Good for Bolton. The existence of Taiwan as an independent nation is a fact. It is no more a breakaway province of the Peoples Republic of China than Massachusetts is a rebellious British colony. Its 24 million people constitute the largest nation to be excluded from the United Nations and from full American diplomatic recognition, and its economy of more than $600 billion is the largest of any country to be marginalized by the global economic and diplomatic communities. The Holy See is one of a tiny handful of sovereign states recognizing Taiwan. Taiwan, too, once was a single-party police state, but it evolved out of that sorry state of affairs and then some: The Freedom House index currently ranks Taiwan as a more free country than the United States. It is robustly democratic, forward-looking, and ambitious. All of which gets up the nose of Beijing. The one-China principle is the political basis for ChinaU.S. relations, Chinese foreign-ministry spokesman Lu Kang said after the Bolton meeting. We are firmly against the U.S. engaging in any official contact with Taiwan in whatever form and under whatever pretext. As CNN put it, Beijing ordered the Trump administration to cease diplomatic engagements with the island. Ordered. One wonders how President Trump will take that. Story continues The United States has followed a policy of engagement with China going on 50 years now, since Richard Nixons famous visit in 1972. This is the correct policy: The state governed from Beijing, like the one governed from Taipei, is a fact, and one that cannot be ignored. The United States and China maintain a close and cooperative economic relationship some call it symbiotic. Many in the Trump administration believe that relationship is too close. The president himself believes that the American trade relationship with China disadvantages the U.S. economy (he is mistaken about that), while others make a moral case against dealing with China as though it were Sweden or Canada rather than a totalitarian state that operates gulags and harvests the organs of political dissidents. Engagement with China is predicated largely on American self-interest as it should be and to the extent that idealism enters into it at all it is in the belief that such improvements as have been enjoyed by the Chinese people have been enabled by their countrys economic progress, and that it is easier for the government of a thriving and confident nation to liberalize than it is for a hungry and desperate one. The advocates of engagement have the better case, and they always have, even though progress has been slow and halting. That the Chinese government as represented by Lu believes itself entitled to bark orders at the United States indicates that there still is far to go. We should be frank, open-handed, and generous in our relations with Beijing for our own good, for the good of the Chinese people, and for the good of the world. But the spirit of generosity is distinct from the spirit of acquiescence, and the United States is not obliged to defer to Beijing in the matter of Taiwan or in any other matter, especially those involving American relations with the free and self-governing peoples of the world. Beijing should not overplay its hand. The U.S.Chinese economic relationship is very important to the United States, but it is fundamental to China, which still has a GDP per capita of less than $9,000 a year, placing it in the company of Kazakhstan and Cuba. American consumers and manufacturers have alternatives to China, but Chinese exporters have no plausible alternative to the American market. The United States is very concerned about the nuclear misadventures of North Korea, but Kim Jong-un is in Chinas backyard, not ours. China worries about the possibility of a rearmed and assertive Japan, while some Americans would welcome that development. Beijing should consider these facts before it blusters its way into trouble of a kind it has not known for a generation. The United States, for its part, would do well to rediscover the cause of Taiwan carefully, prudently, and in a way that is not more provocative than necessary, inevitably provocative though it would be. As Beijing slowly chokes out Hong Kong that other beacon of freedom in the Chinese orbit we should be clear-eyed about what One China would mean in practice. More from National Review Johnson & Johnson, the drug giant best known for its baby products, has been accused of a cynical, deceitful multimillion-dollar brainwashing campaign to drive up sales of its powerful painkillers at the opening of the first trial of a pharmaceutical giant over the US opioid epidemic. Oklahomas attorney general, Mike Hunter, told the civil trial, which opened on Tuesday, that Johnson & Johnson played a leading role in the worst manmade health crisis in the history of the country and the state. Calling the trial a day of reckoning for the company, Hunter accused the company of destroying lives and families. How did it happen? Hunter asked. Greed. The state of Oklahoma is suing Johnson & Johnson for damages, claiming that it worked to push opioids to people who did not need the drugs in competition with Purdue Pharma, whose high strength OxyContin was a leading driver of the epidemic that has claimed 400,000 lives in the US over the past two decades. J&J a family company acted as the kingpin behind this public health emergency, profiting at every stage, the lawsuit alleges. The company denies the allegations. The case sets the stage for about 2,000 other civil lawsuits by US states, cities and Native American tribes looking for a settlement with opioid manufacturers and distributors to match the $246bn paid by the tobacco companies 21 years ago over their misrepresentation of the dangers of smoking. The state accuses J&J of falsely and deceptively promoting opioids for treatment of chronic pain, leading to overprescription, addiction and overdoses that claimed 4,653 lives in Oklahoma in the decade to 2107 and wrecked many times more. Brad Beckworth, another lawyer for the state, told the judge hearing the case without a jury that the company created a web of influence, in part through paid doctors and front organisations, that underplayed the dangers of addiction and overstated the effectiveness of the drugs. Story continues It is a manmade crisis. The evidence will show this is a drug company made crisis, he said. Beckworth said that the company launched a fentanyl patch, Duragesic, in 1991 that for the first few years was used to treat only severe pain in people with cancer or who were dying. But after Purdue brought OxyContin onto the market in 1997, J&J saw an opportunity and relaunched Duragesic for more routine chronic pain in order to grab a much wider market. The following year, J&J created a highly potent poppy in Tasmania that was refined to supply the narcotic sold in American prescription opioids, including by Purdue. J&Js pharma division, Janssen, also manufactured an opioid tablet, Nucynta, described by Hunter as a deadly heroin pill. Beckworth said that J&J followed Purdues blueprint by ignoring long established evidence that opioids are addictive and the old adage that if you oversupply, people will die. J&J knew that opioid drugs are addictive and cause harm, he said. Instead, Beckworth said, the company created a need so they could sell to the need with false claims that its opioids were safe and effective for long term treatment of chronic pain despite a lack of clinical studies and the history of narcotics creating addiction. He likened the result to the mass addiction to opium in 19th-century China. The state accuses J&J of deliberately ignoring warnings about addiction and death. Beckworth showed internal company emails by one of its sales reps, Melinda Dickson. Related: US medical group that pushed doctors to prescribe painkillers forced to close After a meeting with a doctor in Tulsa who expressed concerns about opioids creating addiction, the rep wrote a message about the need to continue to bring up his comfort level for using higher doses of Duragesic. In another email, Dickson said she told a doctor concerned about addiction and abuse that he should not worry because the result was either fatal or they do not get affect (sic) they are looking for. Beckworth said that confronted with evidence of the growing epidemic, J&J saw it as an opportunity. SC Johnson, a separate, privately held company which uses the tagline A Family Company, has asked us to point out it has no connection with Johnson & Johnson. Every day, Wall Street analysts upgrade some stocks, downgrade others, and "initiate coverage" on a few more. But do these analysts even know what they're talking about? Today, we're taking several high-profile Wall Street picks and putting them under the microscope... Investment banker Goldman Sachs plunged back into the world of big pharma stocks this morning. Initiating coverage of seven biotech and pharmaceutical companies running nearly the length of the alphabet -- from AbbVie all the way to Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) -- Goldman Sachs had good news for investors: Three of these stocks -- Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ), Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY), and Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) -- are buys, and a fourth looks like such a great bargain that the analyst actually calls it a "Conviction Buy." Here they are for you -- and here's what Goldman has to say about each of them. 24 different types of pills and capsules sorted in a pill box Image source: Getty Images. Johnson & Johnson Easily the largest of Goldman Sachs' pharma picks today, Johnson & Johnson tips the scales at $370 billion in market cap and $81.6 billion in annual revenue. (J&J is also the most expensive, with a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.8.) But Johnson & Johnson is worth the price premium, argues Goldman Sachs in a note covered today on StreetInsider.com (subscription required). Although earnings declined 14% last quarter, the company is poised to turn around its fortunes on the strength of its diversified portfolio of consumer and medical products and devices. What's more, in contrast to other large pharmaceutical companies, Goldman Sachs sees Johnson & Johnson as having the least exposure to government Medicare and Medicaid spending of any big pharma stock the analyst covers. As the 2020 presidential race gets underway, and Medicare for All proposals get put under the spotlight, Goldman Sachs worries that discussions of changes to healthcare policy (and cuts to healthcare spending) could pressure healthcare stocks. In such an environment, diversification away from government healthcare programs could become a big plus for Johnson & Johnson. Story continues Eli Lilly In contrast to Johnson & Johnson and its 25-plus P/E ratio, Eli Lilly looks like a relative bargain at just 19 times trailing earnings. Less than one-third J&J's size in both market cap and sales, Eli Lilly also arguably has more room to grow. Indeed, growth prospects are key to Goldman Sachs' investment thesis. In a note covered on TheFly.com, the analyst argues that Eli Lilly has new product cycles underway in four separate categories: Cancer, pain management, immunology, and diabetes. Goldman Sachs says the company's growth prospects in diabetes treatment are particularly undervalued by the market right now, and argues that rather than trading at a discount to peers like Johnson & Johnson, Eli Lilly stock should actually trade at a premium. Bristol-Myers Squibb The smallest of Goldman Sachs' four big pharma companies scoring buy ratings today, Bristol-Myers Squibb tips the scales at a svelte $76 billion market cap -- even though its $23.2 billion in trailing sales aren't that much less than Eli Lilly's $24.7 billion! So why is Bristol-Myers Squibb stock selling for such a large discount to its peers -- less than 15 times trailing earnings? Some investors worry that it's a "value-trap," reports StreetInsider, with the company having just anted up $74 billion to acquire Celgene -- just as the latter is facing the prospect of its Revlimid patent expiring. Goldman Sachs, however, is looking forward to Bristol-Myers' Opdivo lung cancer treatment becoming a "front-line" drug in the war against cancer, and predicts positive data from clinical trials will emerge later this summer. Pointing out that Bristol-Myers stock sells at a "significant discount" to other big pharma companies, Goldman argues that it's too cheap, and its multiple to earnings is bound to expand -- transforming from $47 a share to $54 within a year. Pfizer Each of the three stocks named above won a buy rating from Goldman Sachs this morning, but the analyst's most coveted rating -- "Conviction Buy" -- went to only one stock in the pharmaceuticals sector: Pfizer. Selling for under $42 a share today, Goldman Sachs believes Pfizer can soar 17% to hit $49 over the next 12 months as expectations for the company's growth rate (earnings up 9% last quarter, but sales up less than 2%) begin to "inflect" as investors look ahead to 2021. The analyst highlights sales prospects for Pfizer's Tafamidis, Ibrance, and Xtandi drugs, which Goldman Sachs believes the Street is underestimating, as key to the company's ability to grow its $53.9 billion revenue stream to $57.4 billion over the next two years -- 6.5% total sales growth. On top of that, the analyst predicts that Pfizer's operating profit margin on these sales will expand. According to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence, the drugmaker earned a very respectable 29.8% operating profit margin over the last 12 months -- its best margin in the last four years. But Goldman Sachs believes we'll see this margin soar as high as 40.6% by 2022 on the back of faster sales growth and restrained cost growth. What it means for investors Now be warned: As optimistic as Goldman Sachs is about the prospects for each of these four companies, its predictions are far off the beaten track on Wall Street, where most analysts expect to see no more than single-digit earnings growth for most of them (Eli Lilly is said to be the fastest grower, with consensus estimates predicting earnings growth of about 10% annually over the next five years). If Goldman Sachs is right about Pfizer, however, growing sales at 3% or better over the next few years and expanding its operating profit margin by more than a third, Pfizer may in fact be the best bet of the bunch. More From The Motley Fool Rich Smith 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. Keanu Reeves career has spanned more than three decades. The 54-year-old actor got his start in theater and appearing in short films. He even dabbled in TV commercials. One of his first movie roles came in the 1986 film, Rivers Edge. He really had Hollywood taking notice in the 1989 bro flick, Bill & Teds Excellent Adventure. The cult classic led to the 1991 sequel, Bill & Teds Bogus Journey. Fans are super-excited for movie No. 3, Bill & Ted Face the Music, scheduled for a 2020 release. Reeves has also had huge success as an action star. In 1994, he teamed up with Sandra Bullock in Speed. He also had major recognition as Neo in the Matrix trilogy, and as John Wick in the John Wick movie franchise. Hes even signed up for a fourth Wick flick, hitting the big screen in 2021. Earlier this month, the actor was honored with a hand and footprint ceremony at the TCL Chinese Theatre. The event celebrated Reevess successful career in film. Ive had a pretty long career and I hope it continues, he said. At least three people have died and more than a dozen others were injured when a man began stabbing children and other passengers waiting for a bus in a residential district on the southern outskirts of Tokyo Tuesday morning. Local media cited police saying the suspect, a man believed to be in his 40s or 50s, died shortly after he was apprehended in critical condition. The attack took place near a bus stop in Kawasaki City on the outskirts of the capital, where the children were on their way to school, according to Kyodo news agency. According to Japanese broadcaster NHK, a bus driver saw the man holding a knife in each hand while walking towards the bus. He started attacking the children and ran away after the driver yelled at him. The man reportedly stabbed himself in the neck and subsequently died from the injuries. The children are believed to be students at Caritas elementary school, a private Catholic institution in the city. Japanese broadcaster NHK reports that police confirmed a young girl was among the fatalities, and later confirmed that a man in his 30s had also died due to his injuries. Another 16 people, mostly children, are believed to have been injured in the attack. Earlier reports cited police saying the number of injured was 19. In a televised statement, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed strong indignation over the attack and offered his condolences to victims of what he described as a harrowing incident. No motive for the attack has yet been established. Violent attacks are rare in Japan, which has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. But the country has seen some high-profile killings, including the stabbing of 19 at a disabled home in 2016. This story is developing, please check back for updates. Mamuka Bakhtadze held a meeting with young farmers By Natalia Kochiashvili Prime Minister of Georgia, Mamuka Bakhtadze, held a meeting with young farmers of the Georgian Farmers Association (GFA) on May 23 at the Holiday Inn hotel, Tbilisi. Discussions focused on the importance of education and development of agriculture.The meeting was also attended by Levan Davitashvili, the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia and Mikheil Batiashvili, Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Georgia.The involvement of young people in the field of agriculture, establishment of modern standards and enhancing the qualification of existing farmers is a major challenge to the agricultural sector. Strengthening the capacity of farmers with new knowledge and professional skills is one of the main preconditions for strengthening the region and economic development of our country in general.The Farmers Association of Georgia, in response to the above-mentioned challenges, offers interested farmers, including people with disabilities and persons in conflict with the law, professional education and retraining opportunities, as well as agrarian education resources, which includes manuals, agro-library, mobile app "Agronavti" and remote programs of the University of Cambridge.Bakhtadze emphasized at the meeting that Georgia is fully capable of claiming a place for itself on the world market in organic produce. He expressed his belief that agriculture will become one of the most successful fields in the country with the help of modern technologies and approaches. According to the PMs assessment, Georgia has all the conditions to have a successful "green economy".PM commented regarding subsidizing the field: I have a very specific answer to those who have questions about the rightfulness of the state co-financing different agricultural projects. Last year, the export of Georgian agricultural products exceed $1 billion. Also last year, our farmers in Kakheti received the highest income ever. This was a historic maximum for Georgia, said Bakhtadze.The head of the Government noted that the development of small and medium-sized businesses and increasing production volume in agriculture are the ways to fight poverty in Georgia. He added that the government will increase the support of agriculture in the upcoming year: "I'm not a person who always supports the subsidizing policy. On the contrary, I think that it may be ineffective. But when we talk about the development of the sector that has the potential to grow, create more jobs, and have the decisive effect in combating poverty, in this case, my answer is very clear - we will continue supporting the agricultural sector, said Bakhtadze.The challenges of farmers that were discussed during the meeting involved education, professional learning and short-term trainings. Other issues that came up included availability of financial resources and infrastructure, bio-production and export support.GFA Chairperson, Nino Zambakhidze made comments after the meeting regarding the export opportunities of the Georgian produce.With DCFTA, a market of 500 million people has been made accessible, a huge market of China has opened up as well, but challenge is for products to be of high quality and farmers to produce and export in high quantities. We were promised today that the problems that farmers are facing today will be solved using different instruments, said Zambakhidze. According to her, in order to discuss all the issues, the Minister of Agriculture will hold another meeting with the farmers next week.The book "Livestock-Poultry-Production Technology" that was elaborated by the Georgian Farmers Association was presented within the scope of the event. Pristina (AFP) - Kosovo police forces met "armed resistance" in an early morning raid Tuesday targeting fellow officers and others suspected of organised crime in the predominantly Serb north, authorities said, raising tensions with Belgrade. The operation took place in the region flanking the porous border with Serbia, a hotspot for smuggling goods. Kosovo special police said they detained "some police officers and some citizens" accused of participating in criminal gangs, smuggling goods, abusing official positions and bribes. Health authorities told local media that four police officers had been treated for injuries so far, two of whom had been wounded by firearms. All four men are in stable conditions, the hospital said. In addition to "armed resistance in North Mitrovica", the Serb-half of a northern city, police said they "also encountered blockades of some roads". Officers "were forced to use the necessary means to open the roads in order to continue the police operation," the police statement added. There were also reports of a tense situation in the Serb town of Zubin Potok, where two citizens were slightly injured after police had to break through a barricade erected by locals. By mid-Tuesday, the town appeared calm though there several shops had broken windows and scraps from the barricades, including burned tires, remained scattered on the ground, according to an AFP reporter. Police did not specify the number of suspects arrested but said they included ethnic Albanians, which comprise the majority of Kosovo's population, as well as Serbs and Bosniaks. Kosovo's customs department said four of its officers were among those arrested. Since breaking away from Serbia in a 1998-99 war, Kosovo authorities have struggled to exercise clout in the northern ethnic Serb communities, who remain loyal to Belgrade. - Belgrade army 'on alert' - The operation riles already rancorous relations between the former war foes. Story continues In Belgrade, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said he confirmed at least 23 Serbs and Bosniaks among those arrested. Vucic told parliament he "ordered all units of our army be put on alert", a command the president routinely gives during bouts of tension with Kosovo. "I guarantee you if an escalation of the conflict occurs, if an attack against the Serbian people occurs, Serbia will win," he added. The neighbours are under pressure from Brussels to normalise ties if they want to advance towards possible EU membership. But diplomatic spats keep derailing talks and halting progress. On Monday, President Vucic repeating a warning that he would not officially return to EU-led negotiations with Pristina until Kosovo lifted a 100 percent tariff slapped on Serbian goods last November. The tax was a retaliation for Belgrade's efforts to thwart the global recognition of Kosovo. Around 100 countries, including the US and much of Western Europe, have recognised Kosovo's statehood. But Belgrade allies Moscow and Beijing reject it, effectively barring Pristina from a seat in the United Nations. On Tuesday KFOR, the NATO-led troops tasked with protecting Kosovo for the past two decades, urged "calm" and said it was monitoring the situation. Kosovo's 1998-1999 independence war claimed more than 13,000 lives, mostly ethnic Albanians, and led to a humanitarian and refuge crisis with almost one million people fleeing for neighbouring Albania and Macedonia. Pristina (AFP) - Kosovo police arrested more than a dozen fellow officers as part of a crackdown on organised crime in the mainly Serb north on Tuesday, triggering concern from the UN, which said two of its staff were injured. Police said they met "armed resistance" during the early morning operation in the mainly ethnic Serb north region of Kosovo that flanks the porous border with Serbia, a hotspot for smuggling. Two police officers behind the raids were wounded by gunshots while three others were injured in clashes when they tried to remove barricades erected by locals, police said. Police director Rashit Qalaj told reporters his force had arrested 19 police officers and nine civilians for offences including smuggling goods, organised crime, bribes and abuse of power. Seven others were detained for "preventing police from performing their duties", he added. The UN mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) said two of its staff were detained during the raids while carrying out their duties. They were "subsequently transferred to hospital for treatment of injuries". One member of staff, a Russian national, was later released, UNMIK said. Moscow had slammed his detention as an "outrageous act" and violation of his diplomatic immunity. According to police director Qalaj, the UN staff were in a vehicle with UNMIK plates that was being used as part of a "barricade" in the Serb town of Zubin Potok. By midday the town appeared calm, although several shops had broken windows and scraps from the barricades, including burned tires, remained scattered on the ground, an AFP reporter noted. Kosovo's customs department said four of its officers were among those arrested. - Belgrade army 'on alert' - Since breaking away from Serbia in a 1998-99 war, the Kosovo authorities have struggled to exercise clout in the northern ethnic Serb communities, who remain loyal to Belgrade. This operation put more pressure on the already tense relations between the two sides. Story continues In Belgrade, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic told parliament he had put all units of the army on alert, a command he routinely gives during spikes in tension with Kosovo. "I guarantee you if an escalation of the conflict occurs, if an attack against the Serbian people occurs, Serbia will win," he added. But one of his opponents, right-wing politician Miroslav Aleksic, accused Vucic -- and his Kosovo counterparts -- of stirring up the tensions as "theatre" aimed at shoring up public support for a plan to eventually recognise the former province's independence. The neighbours are under pressure from Brussels to normalise ties if they want to advance towards possible EU membership. But diplomatic rows keep derailing talks. On Monday, President Vucic repeating a warning that he would not officially return to EU-led negotiations with Pristina until Kosovo lifted a 100-percent tariff slapped on Serbian goods last November. The tax was a retaliation for Belgrade's efforts to thwart the global recognition of Kosovo. Around 100 countries, including the US and much of Western Europe, have recognised Kosovo's statehood. But Belgrade allies Moscow and Beijing reject it, effectively barring Pristina from a seat in the United Nations. On Tuesday KFOR, the NATO-led troops tasked with protecting Kosovo for the past two decades, called for "calm" and said it was monitoring the situation. Kosovo's 1998-1999 independence war claimed more than 13,000 lives, mostly ethnic Albanians, and led to a humanitarian and refuge crisis with almost one million people fleeing for neighbouring Albania and Macedonia. Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner is heading to the Middle East, the White House said Tuesday, signalling a fresh push on a long promised but yet to be delivered peace plan for the region. Kushner is accompanied by Jason Greenblatt, Trump's special representative for international negotiations, and Brian Hook, the special US representative for Iran, the White House said. They "will travel from May 27 to May 31 to Rabat, Amman, and Jerusalem," said a White House official, speaking on condition of anonymity. The Trump administration is expected to unveil the long-awaited plan -- after numerous failures by their predecessors -- possibly as early as next month, but the Palestinians have already rejected it as heavily biased in favor of Israel. Washington has yet to commit to an exact timetable with respect to the political aspects of the plan. Kushner is the chief architect of the proposals and Greenblatt, a longtime Trump lawyer, has served as his right-hand man on the Middle East initiative. Kushner's trip comes just days after Trump authorized $8.1 billion in arms sales to Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies, bypassing Congress. Kushner has looked to an alliance with the Saudis against Iran as a way to gain Arab support for his Middle East peace plan. Congress had frozen arms sales to the kingdom after the assassination of Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi in October and concerns over the human toll of a Saudi-led campaign in Yemen. But the administration defended the sales as necessary "to deter Iranian aggression and build partner self-defense capacity." RABAT, Morocco (AP) President Donald Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner is in Morocco to seek King Mohammed VI's backing for economic elements of the Trump administration's still-secret peace plan for Israel and Palestine. The Trump administration is stepping up efforts to build support for the plan, as the architects of the proposal began a Mideast tour this week aimed at winning over uneasy Arab nations. A White House official said Tuesday the trip "is part of our ongoing efforts to achieve peace between Israel and the Palestinians" but offered no specifics about the team's agenda at its various stops. The administration is keen to win support from members of the Arab League on whom the plan will rely heavily for both economic and political support. Kushner, Trump's special representative for international negotiations Jason Greenblatt and special U.S. envoy for Iran, Brian Hook, will also travel to Jordan and Israel as part of the trip. The Palestinians, who have cut off contact with the Trump administration and have rejected the peace plan sight unseen, are urging fellow Arabs to steer clear of the Bahrain economic workshop to be held on June 25-26. However, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have all signaled they intend to participate. Morocco and Jordan have yet to offer any public position on either the peace plan or the Bahrain meeting. Both have close ties with the Palestinian leadership and may fear public discontent should they endorse the plan. Logo of jester cap with thought bubble. Image source: The Motley Fool. Laix Inc (NYSE: LAIX) Q1 2019 Earnings Call May 28, 2019, 8:00 a.m. ET Contents: Prepared Remarks Questions and Answers Call Participants Prepared Remarks: Operator Hello, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for standing by for LAIX Inc.'s 2019 first-quarter earnings conference call. [Operator instructions] Today's conference call is being recorded. I will now turn the call over to your host, Ms. Chuhan Wang, investor relations for the company. Please go ahead, Chuhan. Chuhan Wang -- Investor Relations Hello, everyone, and welcome to the 2019 first-quarter earnings conference call for LAIX Inc., also known as Liulishuo. The company's results were issued by newswire services earlier today and are posted online. You can download the earnings press release and sign up for distribution list by visiting the IR section of our website at ir.laix.com. Dr. Yi Wang, our CEO and founder; and Ms. Bin Yu, our CFO, will begin with some prepared remarks. Following the prepared remarks, Mr. Zheren Ben Hu, our CTO and co-founder, will also join us for the Q&A session. More From The Motley Fool Before we continue, please note that today's discussion will contain forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. private securities litigation reform act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as will, expect, anticipate, aim, future, intent, plans, believes, estimates, confident, potential, continue or other similar expressions. Among other things, the outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as LAIX' strategic and operational plans contain forward-looking statements. LAIX may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. securities and exchange commission in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials, and in other -- oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including, but not limited to statements that LAIX' beliefs and expectations are forward-looking statements. Story continues Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a variety of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the company's filings with the securities and exchange commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and the company undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law. During today's call, management will also discuss certain non-GAAP financial measures for comparison purposes only. For a definition of non-GAAP financial measures and a reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP financial results, please see the earnings release issued earlier today. I will now turn the call over to our CEO, Dr. Yi Wang. Please go ahead. Yi Wang -- Chief Executive Officer and Founder Thank you for joining our 2019 first-quarter earnings conference call. We're pleased to tick up the year by delivering strong year-over-year net revenues growth of 161.7% and the gross billings growth of 174.6% in the first quarter. This outstanding performance reflects the growing popularity of our products and our continued leadership in China's AI-powered English learning market. Our mission is to empower everyone to achieve their full potential. Since our inception and continuing today, we strive to create an immersive learning environment and enhance user interaction through advanced AI technologies. The power of AI is transforming all industries, including the education industry, and we are at the forefront of this movement and fully embracing it. We have built our AI-powered Liulishuo platform to deliver a user-centric, personalized, and effective English learning experience accessible to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Our AI teacher can provide personalized teaching guidance for all core components of a user's language learning process, as well as continuing -- it evolves and delivers the very best in learning methodologies. Therefore, as we target an enormous addressable market in China, we have a tremendous opportunity for further market penetration. The benefits of AI technology applications in language learning are significant. During the first quarter, we continued to working on tailoring our English learning products to target a more diverse population. Our new product, Kids Liulishuo, which is a mobile-based phonics online course built for users within the age range of eight to -- three to eight years old, has generated a very positive feedback since its launch at the end of last December. The considerable amount of user -- smart user data generated coupled by our AI tech algorithms allow us to capture and provide personalized feedback on our young user's pronunciation development. It is important to note that at the end of first quarter, we have recorded approximately 30.9 billion sentences and 2.3 billion minutes of conversations, covering numerous proficiency levels, a wide geographic range and demographic expanse from kids to adults. In early April, our proprietary placement test from flagship product, English Liulishuo, was officially mapped to China's Standards of English Language Ability, or the CSE, making Liulishuo the first and only Chinese company linking to the CSE. The CSE defines the development of language ability and serves as a foundational -- a fundamental strategy in promoting English learning, teaching and multidimensional assessment in China. Our placement test, which evaluates user's listening, reading and speaking skills, is powered by our AI-based proprietary recognition scoring engine. We believe the linking results will enable our users to have a deep understanding of the English proficiency levels by benchmarking their learning results on our Liulishuo app with the CSE. Then, users can optimize their study plans accordingly by leveraging our customized and effective courses and services to achieve enhanced learning outcomes. The high effectiveness of our product has been demonstrated by a study measured by the British Council, which showed significant improvement in our user's English proficiency over a two-month period of study on our app. As we move through the year, our focus remains on further expanding our user base and enhancing our user engagement. As of March 31st, 2019, the total number of registered users has increased to 123.4 million, compared with 110.3 million as of December 31st, 2018. In addition, we doubled the total number of paying users who purchase courses and services on our platform to 1.1 million, compared with 552,000 in the first quarter of 2018. Speaking about our premium courses, we launched a small class course called DongNi Select at the end of last year, targeting users who are willing to pay a higher premium for a more interactive and concentrated class environment, with the expansion of high-quality learning content and the help of our learning assistants who can answer user's learning-related questions in a real-time and highly interactive manner. DongNi Select is rising in popularity among our users. We will continue to explore ways to satisfy our user's diverse learning needs and expand our paying user group. One of the things that makes Liulishuo unique is the scalability of our business model. With the higher learning efficacy of our products among our growing user base, we see great opportunities to not only further penetrate into lower key cities in China, but also to expand our global footprint. Further, all the distinguished immerse learning environment in our AI technology foundation has -- have supported our international expansion initiatives. We are uniquely positioned to capitalize on the compelling opportunity penet -- presented by the growing needs of language learners worldwide. To close, we believe that our positive results from the first quarter have us well-positioned for continued success throughout the year. By providing industry-leading courses and services, exceptional user experiences with our advanced product platform, and the vibrant learning community, we will continue to be a leading destination for English learners. This concludes my prepared remarks, and I will now turn the call over to our CFO, Ms. Bin Yu, who will discuss our key financial results. Bin Yu -- Chief Financial Officer Thank you, Yi, and hello, everyone. 2019 began on a strong note. Our robust top-line growth for the first quarter was primarily fueled by healthy growth -- user growth through broadened brand recognition and engaging product experience. We also saw improvements in our operating efficiency with sales in the marketing expenses as a percentage of net revenues falling significantly for the first quarter of 2019 from a year ago period. Looking ahead, we'll continue reinvesting our brand, technology, product and user growth to further penetrate massive market opportunity, presented by the AI-powered language learning market. In addition, we'll maintain discipline in our cost management and continue leveraging the scalability of our business model. Let us now look at our key financial metrics in the first quarter of 2019. Net revenues were CNY 253.3 million or USD 37.7 million, a 161.7% increase from CNY 96.8 million for the same quarter last year. As of March 31st, 2019, the company had CNY 594 million or USD 88.5 million of deferred revenues. The increase was primarily attributable to the overall business growth and the platformwide expansion of our paying user base, as well as to the increased adoption of our proprietary AI teacher among users in China as an effective learning approach and a better alternative to the traditional ways of English learning. House of revenues were CNY 59.7 million or USD 8.9 million, a 152.8% increase from CNY 23.6 million for the same quarter last year. This change was primarily due to increases in salaries and benefits for certain full-time employees and IT service cost, with all such costs resulting from the general business growth and user-based expansion. Gross profit was CNY 193.6 million or USD 28.8 million, a 164.6% increase from CNY 73.2 million for the same quarter last year as a result of increased economies of scale. As a result, gross margin was 76.4%, compared with 75.6% for the same quarter last year. Total operating expenses were CNY 263.8 million or USD 39.3 million, a 60.5% increase from CNY 164.4 million for the same quarter last year, with expensive increase primarily resulting from business growth activities, a development and introduction of new product and the costs associated with the user-based expansion. Sales and marketing expenses were CNY 193.6 million or USD 28.9 million, a 52.5% increase from CNY 126.9 million for the same quarter last year. The increase was primarily due to increases in commission to distribution channels such as mobile app stores and online commerce platform partners and the salaries and benefits for sales and marketing personnel, including online study advisors. Importantly, sales and the marketing expenses as a percentage of net revenue declined notably to 76.4% for the first quarter of 2019, compared with 131.2% for the same quarter last year. Research and development expenses were CNY 50.1 million or USD 7.5 million, a 101.5% increase from 24.9% for the same quarter last year, primarily due to an increase in salaries and benefits for research and development personnel. Research and development expenses were 19.8% of net revenues for the first quarter of 2019, compared with 25.7% for the same quarter last year. General and administrative expenses were CNY 20 million or USD 3 million, a 59.4% increase from CNY 12.6 million for the same quarter last year, primarily due to increases in salaries and benefits for general and administrative personnel and professional service fees. General and administrative expenses were 7.9% of net revenues for the first quarter of 2019, compared with 13% for the same quarter last year. Loss from operations were CNY 70.1 million or USD 10.5 million, compared with CNY 91.2 million for the same quarter last year due to the aforementioned reasons, including general business growth and improved operating efficiencies. Adjusted EBITDA was a loss of CNY 52.1 million or USD 7.8 million, compared with an adjusted EBITDA loss of CNY 76.7 million for the same quarter last year. Foreign exchange gain was CNY 0.7 million or USD 0.1 million, compared with CNY 4.2 million for the same quarter last year. Income tax expenses was CNY 0.03 million or USD 4,000, a 99.5% decrease from CNY 6 million for the same quarter last year, primarily due to the company's estimated taxable loss position in current year. Net loss was CNY 67.3 million or USD 10 million, compared with CNY 92.4 million for the same quarter last year. Adjusted net loss was CNY 54.5 million or USD 8.1 million, compared with CNY 84.1 million for the same quarter last year. Basic and diluted net loss per ordinary share attributable to ordinary shareholders was CNY 1.4 or USD 0.21, compared with CNY 5.12 for the same quarter last year. In terms of our balance sheet, as of March 31st, 2019, the company's cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments totaled CNY 800.3 million or USD 119.3 million, compared with CNY 747.8 million as of December 31st, 2018. Turning to our outlook. For the second quarter of 2019, the company currently expects net revenues to be between CNY 280 million to CNY 300 million, which would represent an increase of approximately 106.6% to 121.4% from CNY 135.5 million for the same quarter last year. This forecast reflects the company's current and preliminary view on the current business situation and market conditions, which is subject to change. This concludes our prepared remarks. We'll now open to the call to questions. As a reminder, Mr. Zheren Ben Hu, our CTO and the co-founder, is joining us for the Q&A session. Operator, please go ahead. Questions & Answers: Operator [Operator instructions] Our first question comes from the line of Timothy Zhao from Goldman Sachs. Your line is open. Timothy Zhao -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Hi, management. Congrats on another set of strong results, and thank you for taking my questions. I have two questions. One is on the sales and marketing cost, which can be much lower compared to the previous two quarters. Per user basis, it's also getting lower. Could you elaborate more on the drivers behind this? And how should we think of the change going forward? And second question is on the new product that you mentioned, such as Kid Liulishuo and DongNi Select. Could you share more color in terms of the enrollment or the revenue contribution of these two products? And also, we note that recently, there was a peak hike in the downloading volume of the Liuli Reading product. Is there any new developed on it? Thank you. Bin Yu -- Chief Financial Officer Thank you, Timothy. This is Bin. I will take your first question about the CSE cost and telemarketing expenses. Yeah, you are right, in first quarter, we are able to maintain a quite healthy investments in user acquisition. As you know, traffic is generally a very expensive around the Chinese new year. And we continue to evaluate and utilize our combination of different customer acquisition channels, and to optimize our ROI on the CSE. As a result, as you can see, we were able to maintain a robust user growth and also keep a reasonable low CSE spending. Moving forward, we expect to continue this investment in our brand technology, and user growth before they captured massive market opportunity. We will remain disciplined in our sales and marketing cost management, and closely monitor our CSE ROI and continue to leverage the scalability of our business model. In addition, we also closely monitor the unit economics of our CSE, and I'm glad to tell you that in the past few quarters, we are able to see a very healthy trend on the unit economics in the CSE side. Thank you. Yi Wang -- Chief Executive Officer and Founder Hey, Timothy, this is Yi. I'm going to answer your question with regards to Kids Liulishuo. You know the new product was launched at the end of last year. It's specifically built for users in age range of three to eight years, which is sort of beginner -- beginning face of [Inaudible] in China. The app has since generated very positive feedback since launch. And given its early phase, the relative scale of user numbers, as well as revenue is still quite small compared to the total user base of revenue top line. That being said, it is targeting what we believe a very large and a promising market. You know on the one hand, our flagship product English Liulishuo and AI-powered learning courses are best suited for users who are aged 10 or above. So on the other hand, the Kids Liulishuo product is one of our key initiatives and expanding our product offerings, and penetrating to a younger age group, which we are very excited about. Zheren Ben Hu -- Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder Hi, Timothy. This is Ben. I will take the question with regards to DongNi Select courses and the Liuli Reading. DongNi Select courses was launched middle last year. So for the past three quarters, it's been going relative healthy and stronger. And we are providing this DongNi Select courses to to our -- to specific style of the users who are pillowed toward their needs. So in terms of future growth, we strongly believe that there always going to be a certain specific group of the users who are willing to pay for the premium content, such as DongNi Select. We think the growth of the DongNi Select course will be -- accordingly to our traffic because you know in general, our whole commercialization is at the commercial funnel, right? There's always a free user, commercial paying customer, and certain paying customer issue will come at the DongNi Select content. And on the other hand, we are still developing other SKUs as well on top of that to further complete our ASP. And for the Liuli Reading product, the first quarter of the Liuli Reading product is actually doing pretty well, and as probably some of the public notification like couple of weeks ago, there was a public announcement from the retail platform regarding certain regulation on retail platform, and the Liuli Reading product was on the top of list of the public notification. And there's two sides of story. On the one side is that, the fact we are on the No. 1 shows the tremendous growth and the momentum of the product. On the other side, there is a very strong stand and strong announcement from retail platform. So we swiftly did our public announcement from our end and very promptly to change your strategy over the night according to the announcement. So retail platform is a very important marketing channel for us, but it is still just one of them. Of course, from all our product lines, Liuli Reading probably is mostly effected by this announcement, right? But our swift and prompt change is going to help us to change this forward growing strategy and marketing strategy accordingly. So we think, overall, it should be manageable. Timothy Zhao -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Thank you. That's very clear. Thank you, you've been [Inaudible]. Thank you. Operator [Operator instructions] As there are no further questions now, I'd like to turn the call back over to Chuhan Wang for closing remarks. Chuhan Wang -- Investor Relations Thank you once again for joining us. If you have further questions, please feel free to contact LAIX investor relations through the contact information provided on our website or TPG investor relations. Operator [Operator signoff] Duration: 0 minutes Call participants: Chuhan Wang -- Investor Relations Yi Wang -- Chief Executive Officer and Founder Bin Yu -- Chief Financial Officer Timothy Zhao -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Zheren Ben Hu -- Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder More LAIX analysis All earnings call transcripts 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 Transcribing 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. Chicago (AFP) - The first civil trial that could end up holding a drug company responsible for the US opioid epidemic began Tuesday in Oklahoma, in a landmark case that might impact thousands of others like it. The bench trial pits the state of Oklahoma against Johnson & Johnson. Two other drug companies named in the lawsuit settled ahead of the trial. Oklahoma has accused the three drug makers of deceptively marketing addictive opioid painkillers, hyping their effectiveness and downplaying the risks of addiction. The lawsuit is the first of many of its kind to go to trial, and seen as an important test of whether drug companies can be held accountable in court for an addiction epidemic that has killed tens of thousands of Americans. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter in opening statements accused Johnson & Johnson of being motivated by greed in embarking on "a cynical, deceitful multimillion-dollar brainwashing campaign" to sell opioids as a "magic drug." "It's time to hold them responsible for their actions," Hunter told the presiding judge, who will decide the case in lieu of a jury. Johnson & Johnson has denied the charges levied by the state and its attorneys were scheduled to make opening statements later in the afternoon. There are some 2,000 lawsuits brought by states, cities and Native American territories across the country, all seeking compensation from makers of the highly addictive prescription painkillers. The lawsuits are being compared to the 1998 cases against Big Tobacco, which ended in a 46-state overarching settlement estimated at $250 billion in annual payments over the first 25 years of it being in force. In the Oklahoma lawsuit, Israeli pharmaceutical giant Teva on Sunday settled the case for $85 million. Purdue Pharma, maker of the opioid painkiller OxyContin -- a key driver of the crisis -- reached a $270 million settlement with the state in March. Overdoses from prescription painkillers and heroin exploded over the last 20 years, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Almost 400,000 people have died from an overdose involving prescription or illicit opioids, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pop icon Prince and rocker Tom Petty were among the high-profile victims of the epidemic. Chicago (AFP) - The first civil trial that could hold a drug company responsible for the US opioid epidemic began Tuesday in Oklahoma -- a landmark case that could impact thousands of others like it. The bench trial pits the state of Oklahoma against Johnson & Johnson. Two other drug companies named in the lawsuit settled ahead of the trial. Oklahoma has accused the three drug makers of deceptively marketing opioid painkillers, hyping their effectiveness and downplaying the risks of addiction. The lawsuit is the first of many to go to trial, and is seen as an important test of whether drug companies can be held accountable in court for an addiction epidemic, which has killed tens of thousands of Americans. In opening statements, Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter accused Johnson & Johnson of being motivated by greed in embarking on "a cynical, deceitful multimillion-dollar brainwashing campaign" to sell opioids as a "magic drug." "It's time to hold them responsible for their actions," Hunter told the presiding judge, who will decide the case in lieu of a jury. Johnson & Johnson has denied the charges levied by the state against its subsidiary Janssen Pharmaceuticals. The company's lead attorney pointed to federal and state agencies having approved and monitored its painkillers Nucynta and Duragesic, and the decades-long familiarity of doctors with opioid medications and their addictive qualities. "Both pharmacists and physicians have an independent responsibility to prescribe and monitor these drugs," attorney Larry Ottaway said. He also said that the company's two drugs were prescribed in low quantities in Oklahoma and were deemed by government agencies as "rarely addictive" because of their timed-release mechanisms. - 2,000 lawsuits - "Janssen's conduct was not a nuisance," Ottaway added, referring to the state's public nuisance law under which it is being sued. Story continues "They provided medically necessary medications for the treatment of terrible, terrible problems. Those treatments were approved and regulated by the FDA," he said. Medical professionals were likely to testify for both sides in the trial, which is expected to last two months. Attorneys said among them will be Russell Portenoy, a once highly-regarded pain expert who spent decades touting the benefits of opioid painkillers and claiming their risks were overstated, before changing his view after numerous lawsuits. There are some 2,000 lawsuits brought by states, cities and Native American territories across the country, all seeking compensation from makers of the highly addictive prescription painkillers. The lawsuits are being compared to the 1998 cases against Big Tobacco, which ended in a 46-state overarching settlement estimated at $250 billion in annual payments over the first 25 years of it being in force. In the Oklahoma lawsuit, Israeli pharmaceutical giant Teva on Sunday settled the case for $85 million. Purdue Pharma, maker of the opioid painkiller OxyContin -- a key driver of the crisis -- reached a $270 million settlement with the state in March. Overdoses from prescription painkillers and heroin exploded over the last 20 years, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Almost 400,000 people have died from an overdose involving prescription or illicit opioids, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pop icon Prince and rocker Tom Petty were among the high-profile victims of the epidemic. KANSAS CITY, Missouri (AP) A vicious storm tore through the western outskirts of Kansas City on Tuesday, spawning one or more tornadoes that downed trees and power lines, damaged homes and injured at least 12 people in the latest barrage of severe weather that saw tornado warnings as far east as New York City. Parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey also were under tornado warnings hours after a swarm of tightly packed twisters swept through Indiana and Ohio overnight, smashing homes, blowing out windows and ending the school year early for some students because of damage to buildings. One person was killed and at least 130 were injured. Those storms were among 55 twisters that forecasters said may have touched down Monday across eight states stretching eastward from Idaho and Colorado. The past couple of weeks have seen unusually high tornado activity in the U.S., with no immediate end to the pattern in sight. Tuesday offered no respite, as a large and dangerous tornado touched down on the western edge of Kansas City, Kansas, late in the day, the National Weather Service office reported. Twelve people were treated night for storm-related injuries at Lawrence Memorial Hospital on Tuesday night, spokeswoman Janice Early said. None of the injuries appeared to be life-threatening. Kansas City International Airport temporarily suspended flights and forced travelers and employees to take shelter in parking garage tunnels for about an hour. A powerful twister also touched down in the nearby township of Pleasant Grove, Kansas, seriously damaging homes. But the severe weather wasn't limited to the Midwest. Tornadoes were confirmed in eastern Pennsylvania and the National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for parts of New York City and northern New Jersey. The winds peeled away roofs leaving homes looking like giant dollhouses knocked houses off their foundations, toppled trees, brought down power lines and churned up so much debris that it was visible on radar. Highway crews had to use snowplows to clear an Ohio interstate. Story continues Some of the heaviest damage was reported just outside Dayton, Ohio. "I just got down on all fours and covered my head with my hands," said Francis Dutmers, who with his wife headed for the basement of their home in Vandalia, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) outside Dayton, when the storm hit with a "very loud roar" Monday night. The winds blew out windows around his house, filled rooms with debris and took down most of his trees. In Celina, Ohio, 82-year-old Melvin Dale Hanna was killed when a parked car was blown into his house, Mayor Jeffrey Hazel said Tuesday. "There's areas that truly look like a war zone," he said. Of the injured, more than two dozen were admitted to hospitals. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine declared a state of emergency in three hard-hit counties, allowing the state to suspend normal purchasing procedures and quickly provide supplies like water and generators. The National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center showed that suspected tornadoes touched down in several states including Indiana, Colorado, Ohio, Iowa, Nebraska and Illinois. Monday marked the record-tying 11th straight day with at least eight tornadoes in the U.S., said Patrick Marsh, a Storm Prediction Center meteorologist. The last such stretch was in 1980. A tornado with winds up to 140 mph (225 kph) struck Monday near Trotwood, Ohio, a community of about 24,500 people 8 miles (12 kilometers) outside Dayton. Several apartment buildings were damaged or destroyed, including one complex where the entire roof was torn away, and at least three dozen people were treated for cuts, bumps and bruises. "If I didn't move quick enough, what could have happened?" said Erica Bohannon of Trotwood, who hid in a closet with her son and their dog. She emerged to find herself looking at the sky. The roof was gone. Just before midnight, about 40 minutes after that tornado cut through, the National Weather Service tweeted that another one was crossing its path. Only a few minor injuries were reported in Dayton. Fire Chief Jeffrey Payne called that "pretty miraculous," attributing it to people heeding early warnings. Sirens went off ahead of the storm. Some of the people treated at the area's Kettering Health Network hospitals were hurt during storm clean-up itself, while others may have waited before seeking treatment from storm injuries, said spokeswoman Elizabeth Long. A boil-water advisory was issued after the city's pumping stations lost power. Dayton Power & Light said more than 50,000 customers remained without electricity and restoration efforts could take days. A high school gym in Dayton was designated an emergency shelter until authorities realized it was unusable. Vandalia's school system tweeted that it is ending the year two days early because of building damage. In nearby hard-hit Brookville, where the storm tore off the school's roof, classes were canceled. In Indiana, a twister touched down Monday evening in Pendleton, about 35 miles (56 kilometers) from Indianapolis. At least 75 homes were damaged there and in nearby Huntsville, said Madison County Emergency Management spokesman Todd Harmeson. No serious injuries were reported. Pendleton residents were urged to stay in their homes Tuesday morning because of downed power lines and other dangers. "People are getting antsy. I know they want to get outdoors, and I know they want to see what's going on in the neighborhood," Harmeson said. But he added: "We still have hazards out there." Outbreaks of 50 or more tornadoes are not uncommon, having happened 63 times in U.S. history, with three instances of more than 100 twisters, Marsh said. But Monday's swarm was unusual because it happened over a particularly wide geographic area and came amid an especially active stretch, he said. As for why it's happening, Marsh said high pressure over the Southeast and an unusually cold trough over the Rockies are forcing warm, moist air into the central U.S., triggering repeated severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. And neither system is showing signs of moving, he said. 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. ___ Associated Press writers Dan Sewell and Amanda Seitz in Cincinnati; David Runk in Detroit; Kantele Franko and Andrew Welsh-Huggins in Columbus, Ohio; Rick Callahan in Indianapolis; John Hanna in Topeka, Kansas; Jim Salter in St. Louis; and Marjory Beck in Omaha, Nebraska, contributed. ___ This story has been corrected to show that the age of the man who was killed was 82, not 81. It also corrects the spelling of his last name to Hanna, not Hannah. Five decisions of the Constituional Court of Georgia appeared Bulletin on Constitutional Case-Law By Levan Abramishvili Five decisions made by the Constitutional Court of Georgia in 2018 appeared in the periodic publication regarding precendental court decisions.The electronic Bulletin on Constitutional Case-Law ("e-Bulletin") is produced by the European Commission for Democracy through Law, better known as the Venice Commission (VC). The e-Bulletin regularly reports on the case-law of constitutional courts and courts with equivalent jurisdiction in Europe and beyond.The e-Bulletin is sent to liaison officers and to subscribers by e-mail three times a year, each mailing reports on the most important case-law gathered during a four-month period.The first case that made it onto the Bulletin is the the Constitutional Court decision of July 30, 2018, where the Constitutional Court recognized that the use of marijuana is protected by the constitutional right as long as it doesnt harm third persons of the society, as guaranteed by Article 16 of the Constitution.According to the decision, a ban on the use of marijuana as a means to prevent its distribution serves the legitimate goal of protecting the well-being of users. Nevertheless, the role of an individual user in the distribution of marijuana and threats emanating from individual use are very minimal. Blanket restriction on the use of marijuana is not proportionate to achieving the legitimate purpose and violates the Constitution.The Constitutional Court was actively involved in various public discussions about the topic, in order to accurately asses the decision and its alignment with the consitution. It is noteworthy that this decision was extensively covered by local and international media.The second decision that appeared on the VCs Bulletin is the one regarding the special treatment of the Georgian Apostolic Autocephalous Orthodox Church from the Government.A group of religious organisations filed constitutional complaints, in which they challenged certain provisions of the Tax Code and the Law on State Property.Under this legislation, the construction, restoration and painting of churches and cathedrals commissioned by the Patriarchate are exempted without credit from Value Added Tax (VAT).The provisions also allow for the transfer, free of charge, of state-owned property to the Georgian Orthodox Church.The applicants contended that the granting of the VAT exemption and the conveyance without charge of state-owned property solely to the Georgian Apostolic Autocephalous Orthodox Church amounted to discriminatory treatment in violation of the constitutionally guaranteed right to equality.The Court ruled that the constitutional provision that acknowledges the outstanding role of the Georgian Apostolic Autocephalous Orthodox Church does not imply the outright bestowal of any privileges upon this particular church; this would vitiate the essence of the constitutional right to equality. Such constitutional recognition is connected with the churchs historical importance and does not serve to establish legal privileges for Orthodox Christianity in the present day.Another decision regarding religion appeared on the Bulletin. Legal provisions which excluded from the states monument conservation regime objects of cultural significance which were under the ownership of religious organisations were ruled unconstitutional.Although the provisions served an important legitimate aim of facilitating the realisation of the freedom of religion, the practising of religious rituals did not conflict with the maintenance of such monuments. They could even result in the monuments being damaged for no good reason.The decision regarding the controversial change in the law that prevented foreign nationals buying agricultural land also appeared on the Venice Comissions Bulletin.The Parliament of Georgia temporarily suspended the operation of a rule which allowed a foreign citizen to own agricultural land in Georgia. This suspension was intended to last until recent changes to the Constitution came into force on 16 December 2018, which did not allow foreign citizens to own agricultural land.The Court ruled that the changes to the Constitution could not be considered as being integral to the national constitutional framework until they took effect. Amendments to the Constitution that come into force at a later date are not meant to influence the scope of the constitutional right to property as it is today.The final ruling that appeared on the Bulletin is regarding the revision of court decisions.The applicant of the case argued that the Civil Procedure Code allowed for a final court decision to be revised and overturned on the basis of newly discovered facts at a court session without an oral hearing.The Constitutional Court acknowledged that the Constitution implies the finality of a court decision as an essential guarantee of the constitutional order. However, the Constitution also protects the rights of an individual to question a final court decision if the necessary circumstances exist. The Constitutional Court noted that the reversal of a final court decision would restrict the individual right of an applicant in a civil case if the incorrect nature of such judicial decision was not appropriately established.It would, in the Constitutional Courts view, have been less restrictive if the law had allowed for judges to determine, on a case-by-case basis and in the fair interest of the parties, the extent to which the final court decision should be overturned. The Constitutional Court found that the provisions in question disproportionately restricted the applicants right to a fair trial. It pronounced them unconstitutional.It is important for the Constitutional Court of Georgia that its cases made into the high-ranking Bulletin, which ensures allows judges and constitutional law specialists from all over the world to be informed quickly about the most important judgments rendered in the field of constitutional justice.The main purpose of the e-Bulletin on Constitutional Case-Law is to foster an exchange of information and ideas and to assist national judges in solving difficult questions of law, which often arise simultaneously in courts of different countries. MIAMI (AP) The Latest on the sentencing of a man whose wife disappeared while honeymooning at sea (all times local): 12:05 p.m. The family of a woman who disappeared on her honeymoon is "satisfied" with a judge's decision to sentence the husband to 8 years in prison for involuntary manslaughter. A federal judge sentenced 42-year-old Lewis Bennett to eight years in federal prison. An attorney speaking on behalf of Isabella Hellman's relatives says they're looking forward to visiting the couple's daughter in Scotland next month. Mitchell Kitroser said on Tuesday the family is hoping this is the first of many visits to come. Kitroser said Hellman's relatives have forgiven Bennett. Emelia Bennett was an infant when her mother vanished in May 2017. Bennett is a dual citizen of Australia and the United Kingdom. His daughter now lives with his family in Scotland and will turn 3 in July. 10:20 a.m. A man whose wife disappeared while they honeymooned at sea has been sentenced to eight years in federal prison. Lewis Bennett apologized to the family of Isabella Hellman during a Tuesday hearing before U.S. District Judge Federico Moreno in Miami. Bennett's attorneys sought a 7-year sentence but the judge went with the maximum number of years spelled out in a plea agreement on an involuntary manslaughter charge reached last November. Hellman disappeared as the couple sailed off the Bahamas in May 2017. Her 42-year-old husband insisted he left Hellman on deck when he went to the boat's cabin to sleep. He said he woke up when the craft hit something, and Hellman was missing. The FBI says the catamaran's portholes were opened and the hull damaged from the inside. The couple's daughter turns 3 in July. She's being raised by his parents in Scotland. ___ 7:55 a.m. A man whose wife disappeared while they honeymooned at sea is facing a prison sentence after pleading guilty in Florida to a federal involuntary manslaughter charge. Story continues A sentencing hearing is scheduled Tuesday in Miami federal court for 42-year-old Lewis Bennett. The plea agreement caps his potential prison sentence at 8 years. Isabella Hellman went missing as the couple sailed off the Bahamas in May 2017. Bennett insisted he left Hellman on deck when he went to the boat's cabin to go to sleep. He said he woke up when the craft hit something, and Hellmann was gone. The FBI says the catamaran's portholes were opened and the hull damaged from the inside. The couple's daughter turns 3 in July. She's being raised by his parents in Scotland. ___ An earlier version of this report had an incorrect age for Lewis Bennett. Arbil (Iraq) (AFP) - The Iraqi Kurdish parliament on Tuesday elected Nechirvan Barzani, the nephew and son-in-law of veteran leader Massud Barzani, as president of the autonomous region. The deputy leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party won 68 votes from the 81 members present in the 111-seat chamber, an AFP correspondent reported. The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan of late Iraqi president Jalal Talabani, bitter rival of the powerful Barzani clan, had called for a boycott of the vote. Nechirvan Barzani is the second person to hold the office of president, occupied by his uncle from its creation in 2005 until late 2017, when he quit following an independence referendum hotly opposed by Baghdad. The younger Barzani, who was born in northern Iraq in 1966 but spent part of his life in Iran, speaks fluent Kurdish, Farsi and English. In 1996, five years after the region won autonomy in the face of a brutal campaign of repression by late dictator Saddam Hussein, he became vice prime minister, then head of the government in 1999. Iraqi Kurdistan was deeply split, with its Sulaimaniyah province remaining under a rival authority run by Talabani's PUK. When the two camps decided to reunite the region under a unity government in 2006, Barzani was chosen to head it. Barham Saleh, a senior PUK leader who is today president of Iraq, later took up the post, but the younger Barzani was reinstated in 2012. BERLIN, May 28 (Reuters) - The leader of Germany's Social Democrats, Andrea Nahles, will face calls to resign as its parliamentary chief at a crisis meeting on Wednesday after the party's double election defeat, three lawmakers said. The center-left group in coalition with Angela Merkel's conservatives lost a regional vote in the northern state of Bremen for the first time in 73 years on Sunday, and saw its share of the vote slump in EU parliamentary elections. Nahles - who is both the SPD's national leader and its head in the lower house of parliament - has already called for a vote on the parliamentary post next week, heralding more turbulence for a coalition already beset by infighting. Three SPD lawmakers told Reuters that the group had called a crisis meeting in parliament on Wednesday. "Now or never, we need a fresh start, including also in personnel. It definitely can not go on like this," said one of the lawmakers who spoke on condition of anonymity. Pressure on Nahles to quit was growing, the lawmaker added. Another SPD lawmaker said, however, that there was no other candidate in sight to replace Nahles. "I'm not aware of anybody who wants to start the revolution now." Nahles's position as overall party leader would be severely weakened if she lost next week's vote. That would also embolden the SPD's left flank who would prefer the party to quit the coalition with Merkel. Any move to pull out of the coalition could trigger snap elections or a possible new alliance. Three further regional elections are due in September and October, all in former Communist eastern states where the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is strong. (Reporting by Michael Nienaber, Editing by Andrew Heavens) Logo of jester cap with thought bubble. Image source: The Motley Fool. Leju Holdings Ltd (NYSE: LEJU) Q1 2019 Earnings Call May 28, 2019, 7:00 a.m. ET Contents: Prepared Remarks Questions and Answers Call Participants Prepared Remarks: Operator Hello and thank you for standing by for Leju's First Quarter 2019 Earnings Conference Call. At this time all participants are in a listen-only mode. After management's prepared remarks, there will be a question-and-answer session. Please note that today's conference call is being recorded. If you have any objections, you may disconnect at this time. I would now like to turn the meeting over to our host for today's conference, Ms. Michelle Yuan, Leju's Deputy CFO. Please go ahead, ma'am. Michelle Yuan -- Deputy Chief Financial Officer Hello everyone and welcome to Leju's first quarter 2019 earnings conference call. Today, we'll update you regarding our financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019. If you would like a copy of the earnings press release or would like to sign up for our email distribution list, please go to our IR website at ir.leju.com. Leading the call today is Mr. Geoffrey He, our CEO, who will review operational highlights for the first quarter 2019. Mr. Li-Lan Cheng, our acting CFO, will then discuss the financial results in more detail. We will then open the call to questions. Before we continue, please allow me to read Leju's safe harbor statement. Some of the statements during this conference call are forward-looking statements made under safe harbor provisions of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as amended. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from our current expectations. Potential risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to those outlined in our public filings with the SEC. You are encouraged to review the forward-looking statements section of our annual report filed with the SEC for additional information concerning factors that could cause those differences. Leju does not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Story continues Our earnings press release and this call include discussions of unaudited GAAP financial information as well as some unaudited non-GAAP financial measures. Our press release contains a reconciliation of the unaudited non-GAAP measures to the unaudited most directly comparable GAAP measures. Please note that unless otherwise stated, all figures mentioned during this conference call are in US dollars. I will now turn the call over to Leju's CEO, Geoffrey He. He-zong, please go ahead. Yinyu He -- Chief Executive Officer Thanks, everyone, for joining us on today's call. We are pleased to see strong top line growth in both our online advertising and e-commerce sectors for the first quarter. This was in part driven by the increasing demand for marketing services from developers as the overall market sentiment improved. It is also a result of our top-down key account strategy, which has played an important role in building up our e-commerce project pipeline and is (ph) in fact effective to further consolidate our market leadership in the e-commerce sector. So far, we have reached a strategic agreement with over two-thirds of the Top 100 developers to cooperate on e-commerce. A large number of which are (ph) incohesive . Through these agreements, we have already seen a strong rise in e-commerce projects and this trend should continue in the coming quarters, assuming no significant change in government policy. We also enhanced our new media strategy in the first quarter, especially on our multi-channel networking or MCN system. We are pushing ahead the content exchange partnerships with channel's local traditional media outlets, for example, print and TV media, and delivering our content to China's major online media platforms to gain broader awareness and higher traffic. This type of MCN media operations strategy is quite new in our vertical industry and we believe it will give us a new competitive edge, accelerate growth in our online advertising sector and improve profit margins. On the Internet management side, in the first quarter we adopted a new management structure to further improve operational efficiency and streamline our cost structure. We will look to further optimize our internal management to meet business development needs as well as profitability growth. Looking ahead, we will continue to focus on market expansion, product innovation and (ph) in fact organizational optimization in order to maximize long-term value for shareholders. Now I will turn the call over to our acting CFO, Mr. Li-Lan Cheng, who will reveal our financial highlights for the quarter. Li-Lan Cheng -- Acting CFO Thank you, Geoffrey. Good morning and good evening everyone. For the first quarter of 2019, we recorded total revenues of $110.4 million, a 35% increase from the same quarter of 2018. E-commerce services revenues for this quarter increased by 44% to $76.8 million, contributing 59.6% of our total revenues. The growth was a result of an increase in both the number of discount coupons redeemed and in the average price per discount coupon. Online advertising services revenues for this quarter grew by 22% to $33.2 million or 30.1% of our total revenues. We expect an increased demand for online advertising among property developers. Listing services revenues for the first quarter of 2019 decreased by 56% to $0.4 million from the same quarter last year as a result of a decrease in demand from secondary real estate brokers. Our cost of sales for this quarter increased by 26% to $23.5 million from the same period last year, primarily due to increased cost of advertising resources purchased from media platforms. Our selling, general and administrative expenses increased by 11% to $106 million from the same quarter last year. This increase was primarily due to increased marketing expenses related to our e-commerce business. Loss from operations was $19.1 million for the first quarter of 2019, a decrease of 39% from the same quarter of 2018. Net loss attributable to Leju shareholders was $13.5 million for the first quarter of 2019, a decrease of 35% from the same quarter of 2018. Non-GAAP loss from operations was $15.3 million for the first quarter of 2019, a decrease of 43% from the same quarter of 2018. Non-GAAP net loss attributable to Leju shareholder was $10.6 million for the first quarter of 2019, a decrease of 39% from the same quarter of 2018. As of March 31, 2019, our cash and cash equivalents balance was $137.9 million. Our net cash flows used in operations for the first quarter of 2019 was $11.7 million, mainly attributable to non-GAAP net loss of $10.6 million, and an increase in accounts receivable and contract assets of $10.3 million, partially offset by an increase in accounts due to -- amounts due to related parties of $5.2 million, an increase in advance from customers of $2.5 million and a decrease in customer deposits of $1.4 million. Looking ahead, we estimate that our second quarter 2019 total revenues will be approximately between $150 million to $160 million, which represents an increase of approximately 22% to 30% from the same quarter last year. Please note that this forecast reflects our current and preliminary view, which is subject to change. This concludes our prepared remarks. We are now ready to take your questions. Operator, please go ahead. Questions and Answers: Operator (Operator Instructions) We have a question from the line of Tian Hou from T.H. Capital. Please go ahead. Tian X. Hou -- T.H. Capital -- Analyst So, thanks management for picking up my questions. I have two questions. It's a much more -- one is general question, one is related to (inaudible). One is -- what's the management's view, 2019's the property market in China? And it seems like last year we had a lots of control and limitation. But this year it seems like a very tricky situation. So what do you guys think about that. And also e-commerce, this quarter growing really nicely. So why is that and what is the trend throughout the 2019? That's the two question. Thank you. Yinyu He -- Chief Executive Officer Okay. Well, thank you for the question. For the first question is for this year's property market. We think that the industry will keep stable, including the trading value and their trading price. The current government's strategy is to keep the price stable. Some cities even have set a goal like a annual rise will no more than 5% or like that. On the other hand, the government also take measures if the price goes down. So from both the trading volumes and the trading price, we think this year we'll keep very stable in a small range of maybe up and down 5%, and price like that. As to the e-commerce, we -- actually, we already see that apart from some of the smaller cities, I think most cities have already seen that because of the increase of the supply of the new apartments, while the demand actually are not getting as quickly as they want. So when we -- especially, in the first quarter we see that the developers, they have more needs to do marketing. Previously the developers, when the government set the price ceilings, they usually sell at the prices ceilings. So at that time, they don't need to do more marketing activities, but because the consumers actually are waiting and with more supply of the new apartments. So when they -- they feel -- if they do not do more marketing activities, it is quite hard for them to accelerate the sales. So this leaves us a space to do e-commerce both on the price side and both on the marketing side Our e-commerce model is based on the discount coupon. So we see that especially in the first and the second tier cities more and more projects beginning to have such a discount. This gives us the opportunity to sell the discount coupons. So, overall, we are quite optimistic for the full-year on our e-commerce business, because we see -- given that the market keeps stable, while the supply of the new apartments is getting up, we think the marketing activities need from the developers will become more and more. So, we are optimistic on our e-commerce business. Plus, we already see that we actually through our top-down structure -- top-down the key account strategy, we already built up a quite strong pipeline of e-commerce projects. So really you can see that in the first quarter, we actually -- we achieved a quite strong -- both on the advertising and e-commerce sectors. Tian X. Hou -- T.H. Capital -- Analyst That's very helpful. Thank you. Yinyu He -- Chief Executive Officer Thank you. Operator (Operator Instructions) We do not have any further questions at the moment. I would like to hand the conference back to our host for any ending remarks. Michelle Yuan -- Deputy Chief Financial Officer This concludes today's call. If you have any follow up questions, please contact us at the numbers or emails provided on our earnings release and on our website. Thank you. Operator Thank you ma'am. Ladies and gentlemen, that conclude our conference for today. Thank you for participating. You may all disconnect now. Good day. Duration: 16 minutes Call participants: Michelle Yuan -- Deputy Chief Financial Officer Yinyu He -- Chief Executive Officer Li-Lan Cheng -- Acting CFO Tian X. Hou -- T.H. Capital -- Analyst More LEJU 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. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. man who pleaded guilty in the disappearance of his wife off the coast of the Bahamas in 2017 was sentenced Tuesday morning to eight years in prison. The judge said following his eight-year sentence, Lewis Bennett, 42, will be on supervised release for three years. The sentencing hearing was held in a Miami federal court for Bennett, who previously pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in November. Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo has warned he could lose his s*** if he doesnt get to the bottom of why Renault botched his strategy at the Monaco Grand Prix. A Renault team error cost the frustrated racer his shot at a podium finish for a fourth consecutive year. He finished 10th, later adjusted to ninth, but the defending race winner would have been gunning for something more respectable had his team not misjudged a pit stop during an early safety car period. When Ferrari's Charles Leclerc crashed on lap 11 trying to pass Nico Hulkenberg, the top four cars pitted and Renault decided to bring in the Australian, who was running fifth. It proved costly as Ricciardo slipped five places. He was then stuck in traffic and for an agonising stretch behind the Alfa Romeo of Kimi Raikkonen, who was able to compile an extended opening stint despite starting on soft tyres. Its frustrating, he said of the teams blunder. I have to sit down with the team to understand the reasoning behind that. Im upset at the moment but Ill try and get an understanding before I lose my s***. Daniel Ricciardo of Australia and Renault Sport F1 walks to his garage before qualifying for the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2019 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Charles Coates/Getty Images) The dramatic turn in Ricciardos feelings towards his team comes with two weeks to prepare for the Canadian Grand Prix. The 29-year-old said the car itself felt good around the tight Monaco circuit, even if he wasnt able to fully use the speed at his disposal. "We had a great start, jumped Kevin Magnussen (Haas) on the outside for fifth and had a strong turn one, he said. "Then we pitted under the safety car, which is where we missed out. We definitely could have done better and got a great result as we had all the cards in our hand." Team principal Cyril Abiteboul said Renault had done everything required in qualifying to set up for a good result. "Unfortunately, the single most important decision of the day was to stop Daniel under the safety car," he conceded. "It turned out to be the wrong one. "It's clearly a missed opportunity that does not reward the hard work of the team and the drivers to improve the competitiveness of the package," he added. with AAP New York (AFP) - MacKenzie Bezos, soon-to-be ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has promised to donate half her fortune to charity, joining the ranks of the world's ultra-wealthy philanthropists, the Giving Pledge announced Tuesday. The charitable organization, founded in 2010 by Warren Buffett and Bill Gates, listed MacKenzie Bezos, an American, among 19 new signatories of the pledge from China, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates and Britain. She instantly became one of the world's wealthiest individuals in April, gaining a net worth estimated at $36 billion after finalizing the terms of her divorce with Jeff Bezos, the world's richest man. "In addition to whatever assets life has nurtured in me, I have a disproportionate amount of money to share," MacKenzie Bezos said in a letter announcing that she was joining the pledge. "My approach to philanthropy will continue to be thoughtful. It will take time and effort and care. But I won't wait. And I will keep at it until the safe is empty." As part of the couple's pending divorce, MacKenzie Bezos is to retain 25 percent of the Amazon shares the pair had held jointly, equal to about four percent of the company, but will surrender all her voting rights. More than 200 people have taken the Giving Pledge, including Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, investor Bill Ackman, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, and investor Robert F. Smith, who made waves earlier this month by announcing he would pay off the student loans of an entire graduating class at the historically black Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. Jeff Bezos, whose fortune is currently estimated at well over $100 billion, has not taken the pledge but in September announced a $2 billion investment fund intended to support homeless families and education in poor communities. MacKenzie Bezos, born MacKenzie Tuttle, met Jeff Bezos in 1992, before he founded what would become the global online retail, tech and government contracting behemoth Amazon. The company is worth nearly $900 billion. The announcement of their divorce in January was followed several weeks later by the publication of personal text messages between Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez, a television personality with whom he had an extramarital affair. Forbes has yet to list MacKenzie Bezos on its list of billionaires, pending the finalization of the divorce, which should make her the world's third-richest woman, behind France's Francoise Bettencourt-Meyers, the L'Oreal heiress ($49.3 billion), and the American Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton ($44.4 billion). Caracas (AFP) - President Nicolas Maduro promised Monday to show "good faith" ahead of a meeting in Norway between representatives of his government and those of opposition leader Juan Guaido. "We are going to be showing our very best good faith... to be able to find, based on the platform the parties agreed on, peaceful, democratic solutions to help overcome Venezuela's conflict," Maduro said in a televised address. The talks in Norway this week will be the first face-to-face meeting between representatives of Maduro and those of his rival Guaido, who is recognized as interim president by some 50 countries. Maduro confirmed that his delegation will include Communication Minister Jorge Rodriguez, Miranda state Governor Hector Rodriguez and Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, who were on the ground in Norway. "This is a dialogue between the Revolutionary Government, the Revolutionary Armed Forces, and the extremist opposition... which is trying to topple the government at the behest of US interests," Maduro said. The bid for talks comes after a months-long power struggle between Guaido, the leader of the National Assembly legislature, and the socialist president. Guaido's backers dismiss Maduro's presidency as "illegitimate" following his re-election last year in polls widely labeled as rigged. Maduro, who has presided over the country's economic collapse, has been shunned by much of the international community, but retains the backing of Russia, China and Cuba, as well as the country's powerful military. BLANTYRE, May 28 (Reuters) - President Peter Mutharika called on Malawians to unite and help develop the country at his inauguration for a second term on Tuesday after an election marred by allegations of rigging and sporadic violence. Results had been due at the weekend but had to be delayed after a court on Saturday granted the opposition an injunction after the electoral commission received 147 complaints of irregularities, including results sheets with sections blotted out or altered with correction fluid. The court lifted the injunction on Monday, and the electoral commission declared Mutharika the narrow winner, with opposition parties grudgingly accepting the result after weekend protests by their supporters led to clashes with police. "Thank you Malawi," Mutharika, 78, told thousands of cheering supporters packed into the Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre, after taking the oath of office and giving a short speech. "It is time to move on. There is a time to fight. There is a time to unite, to unite and develop this country," he said, repeating his campaign promise of clean governance and economic revival following accusations of corruption and mismanagement. The small, landlocked country won independence from Britain in 1964. After an initial period of economic and social stability, it is now ranked among the poorest countries in the world, reliant on donor funding and tobacco and tea exports. Mutharika won the election with a 38.57% share of the vote, with opposition party leader Lazarus Chakwera scoring 35.41% and Deputy President Saulos claiming 20.24% in the final tally. There have been no fresh reports of protests or violence after the ructions in the capital Linlongwe where supporters of Chikwera's opposition Malawi Congress Party had torn down ruling party posters and hurled rocks at government buildings. (Reporting by Frank Phiri; Writing by Mfuneko Toyana; Editing by Alison Williams) PARIS (Reuters) - The failure of Maltese authorities to identify the masterminds behind the murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia raises questions about the rule of law in Malta, according to Europe's chief human rights watchdog. Caruana Galizia, whose reporting uncovered widespread corruption, was killed by a car bomb in October 2017. Her murder exposed the dark side of the Mediterranean island that is both a member of the EU and a haven for online gambling, offshore finance and cryptocurrencies. In the draft of a report seen by Reuters and due to be released on Wednesday, the Council of Europe concludes Malta's rule of law is undermined by weak checks and balances on power and says more must be done to strengthen judicial independence and bolster law enforcement. "Malta's weaknesses are source of vulnerability for all of Europe: Maltese citizenship is European Union citizenship, a Maltese visa is a Schengen visa, and a Maltese bank gives access to the European banking system," rapporteur Pieter Omtzigt's writes in the draft. "If Malta cannot or will not correct its weaknesses, European institutions must intervene." A spokesman for Prime Minister Joseph Muscat did not immediately reply to Reuters requests for comment. However, in response to a leak of the report to Maltese newspapers, Muscat told state television last Wednesday that it was "totally biased". The Council of Europe's Human Rights and Legal Affairs Commission is expected to adopt the report at a meeting in Paris on Wednesday, before it goes to the council's assembly in June. In examining where failings lie, the draft report zeroes in on the powerful position of the prime minister's office. It said Muscat has wide powers of appointment, including senior civil servants, the head of police and the attorney general, judges and magistrates. His office has also overseen a number of activities that present a risk of money laundering, including the sale of passports, it said. Story continues "Malta still needs fundamental, holistic reform, including subjecting the office of the prime minister to effective checks and balances, ensuring judicial independence and strengthening law enforcement and other rule of law bodies," the report says. The government has repeatedly said Malta's financial services sector is as transparent, solid and compliant as any other European jurisdiction. The government says the gambling and passport initiatives are legitimate. More than a year-and-a-half after Caruana Galizia's assassination, the main suspects have not gone on trial and Maltese authorities have failed to identify who ordered the hit. The custody time limit expires in two months, after which they will have to be released, the report says. They have pleaded not guilty. Two of the three suspects on Monday protested in court in Malta over the Council of Europe report, saying it ignored their presumption of innocence. The 70-year-old Council of Europe is the guardian of the European Convention on Human Rights and the creator of the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. (Reporting by Paris bureau; Additional reporting by Christopher Scicluna in Valletta; Writing by Richard Lough; Editing by Alison Williams) MIAMI (AP) A man whose wife disappeared while they honeymooned at sea was sentenced by a federal judge to eight years in prison for involuntary manslaughter. Lewis Bennett, 42, apologized to the family of Isabella Hellman during a Tuesday hearing before U.S. District Judge Federico Moreno in Miami. He waived his right to appeal. Defense attorneys sought a 7-year sentence, a year lower than the maximum number spelled out in a plea agreement reached last November. Bennett was originally charged with murder, with investigators alleging he intentionally tried to sink the boat, but later dropped the charges. "It's not because I expect that he will commit this crime again," Judge Moreno said. "Sentencing is for punishment." Before Moreno announced his decision, Bennett, a dual citizen of Australia and the United Kingdom, asked the judge that he let him get out of prison sooner so he could continue to raise the couple's daughter, who was an infant when the mother vanished. Emelia Bennett turns 3 in July and is being raised by his parents in Scotland. "If you may permit me to be with my daughter as soon as possible," Bennett said. "I want to bring her up in a manner that is respectful to my wife's wishes." But Moreno sided with prosecutors and chose eight years in prison as the sentence and three years on supervised release. Hellman disappeared as the couple sailed off the Bahamas in May 2017. A statement from the U.S. Attorney's office says Bennett had experience sailing, including training on emergency procedures and had previously traveled from St. Marteen to Australia. His wife, a naturalized U.S. citizen born in Cuba, had not trained in emergency sailing procedures and had less experience, prosecutors said. The couple had been married for three months when they set sail to St. Marteen, Puerto Rico and Cuba for a delayed honeymoon in late April. After they left Cuba on May 14, Bennett asked Hellman take over control of the boat for the night so he could go rest in the boat's cabin, according to court documents. He didn't require her to wear a life jacket, harness or personal locator, prosecutors said in the statement. Story continues He said he woke up when the craft hit something, and Hellman was missing. Assistant U.S. attorney Kurt Lunkenheimer said on Tuesday that Bennett "did not search for her diligently enough despite him being an experienced sailor." The government maintained he didn't use the satellite phone to call for help. Instead, he loaded provisions and stolen silver coins onto a life raft and boarded it. Prosecutors said he called for help 45 minutes after he had woken up realizing his wife was gone. A U.S. Coast Guard helicopter rescued him and flew him to the Florida Keys. Authorities searched for Hellman for four days, but never found her body. A Florida state judge declared Hellman dead earlier this month to clear the way for the couple's daughter to inherit her mother's estate. "Hellman's death occurred as a result of Bennett's knowledge of circumstances that existed that could have reasonably enabled him to foresee threat to life," said the U.S. Attorney's office statement Tuesday. The FBI said an inspection found that holes in the hull were inflicted from the inside and hatches were opened in a deliberate attempt to sink the boat. Bennett was initially arrested and charged with murder last year before reaching a plea deal with federal prosecutors. He had already pleaded guilty to transporting $100,000 in stolen coins. The defense attorney declined to comment. An attorney for Hellman's family said her relatives were satisfied with the judge's decisions and were excited they would soon be able to visit Emelia in Scotland. "There is nothing that can or could be done to bring Isabella back," said Mitchell Kitroser, a lawyer who spoke on behalf of the Hellman's family and said they were planning a visit in June. Emelia "lost her mom but that doesn't mean that she has lost her mom's family." ___ An earlier version of this report had an incorrect age for Lewis Bennett. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! We've lost count of how many times insiders have accumulated shares in a company that goes on to improve markedly. On the other hand, we'd be remiss not to mention that insider sales have been known to precede tough periods for a business. So shareholders might well want to know whether insiders have been buying or selling shares in Protector Forsikring ASA (OB:PROTCT). Do Insider Transactions Matter? Most investors know that it is quite permissible for company leaders, such as directors of the board, to buy and sell stock on the market. However, most countries require that the company discloses such transactions to the market. We don't think shareholders should simply follow insider transactions. But equally, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether. 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'. See our latest analysis for Protector Forsikring The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At Protector Forsikring Over the last year, we can see that the biggest insider purchase was by Hans Didring for re870k worth of shares, at about re55.27 per share. So it's clear an insider wanted to buy, at around the current price, which is re60.00. Of course they may have changed their mind. But this suggests they are optimistic. While we always like to see insider buying, it's less meaningful if the purchases were made at much lower prices, as the opportunity they saw may have passed. In this case we're pleased to report that the insider purchases were made at close to current prices. Happily, we note that in the last year insiders bought 34000 shares for a total of re1.9m. Protector Forsikring may have bought shares in the last year, but they didn't sell any. The chart below shows insider transactions (by individuals) over the last year. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction! Story continues OB:PROTCT Recent Insider Trading, May 28th 2019 Protector Forsikring 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. Insider Ownership of Protector Forsikring Looking at the total insider shareholdings in a company can help to inform your view of whether they are well aligned with common shareholders. Usually, the higher the insider ownership, the more likely it is that insiders will be incentivised to build the company for the long term. Insiders own 4.2% of Protector Forsikring shares, worth about re207m. We've certainly seen higher levels of insider ownership elsewhere, but these holdings are enough to suggest alignment between insiders and the other shareholders. What Might The Insider Transactions At Protector Forsikring Tell Us? The fact that there have been no Protector Forsikring insider transactions recently certainly doesn't bother us. However, our analysis of transactions over the last year is heartening. It would be great to see more insider buying, but overall it seems like Protector Forsikring insiders are reasonably well aligned (owning significant chunk of the company's shares) and optimistic for the future. If you are like me, you may want to think about whether this company will grow or shrink. Luckily, you can check this free report showing analyst forecasts for its future. 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. US First Lady Melania Trump delivered a number of outfit changes during a four-day state visit to Tokyo, Japan [Photo: Getty] US presidential couple, Donald and Melania Trump, undertook a four-day state visit to Tokyo, Japan on Friday and the trip proved the perfect opportunity for the First Lady to really flex her sartorial muscles. The 49-year-old made sure to pack a number of high fashion outfits and delivered an estimated 10,000 worth of headline-worthy dresses in the past 48 hours alone. To kick-start the fashionable proceedings, Trump wore a Calvin Klein shirt dress emblazoned with old postcards of the American West on the flight out - a not-so-subtle tribute to US culture - which retails at $3,900 (approximately 3,079). Melania Trump arrived at Haneda international airport wearing Calvin Klein [Photo: Getty] To finish the breezy ensemble, she wore a pair of navy Christian Louboutin pumps. Further cementing her status as a global fashion muse, Trump chose a 5,847 Carolina Herrera midi dress for an outing with the prime ministers wife Akie Abe on Sunday. A pair of heels in Japans national colour, red. The First Lady chose a Carolina Herrera gown for an outing with Akie Abe [Photo: Getty] But it was Trumps evening look that sparked a debate online. READ MORE: Inside Melania Trumps work wardrobe For a lavish banquet at the Imperial Palace come evening, Trump decided to fly the US flag in a 3,500 feather-emblazoned dress by American designer J. Mendel. Melania Trump later changed into a sweeping cape dress by J. Mendel [Photo: Getty] Further proving the Melania Effect is very real, the ensemble soon garnered sell-out status with a number of social media users praising the look. Did you see her dresses in Japan?! Stunning! The feather dress?! So beautiful NJSayWhat (@NJSayWhat) May 28, 2019 It looks like Melanias dress and shoes colour are Japanese flag colour. Very elegant. Trump becomes the first world leader to meet Japans new emperor Naruhito https://t.co/JoFuP4EOvN furball (@furball1868) May 28, 2019 I do love this dress by Carolina Herrera worn by first lady Melania Trump in Japan. Plus I think this postcard dress by Calvin Klein is so cute, crisp and summery looking. Perfect dress to wear leaving on the trip to Japan. #MelaniaTrump #firstlady pic.twitter.com/0HiT8QOz16 Karen Callahan (@CallahanKaren) May 27, 2019 She sure knows how to dress with elegance and respect for the occasion. Hollywood should watch and learn. Lynda mathews (@Lyndamathews25) May 28, 2019 While others were less than impressed with the amount of money forked out for the dress. Story continues That dress alone could probably house some homeless vets. Tosia (@SpryWit) May 28, 2019 But the fashion doesnt stop there, as Trump also made sure to pack a punchy Dries Van Noten coat for the flight home. In case you needed further evidence on her fashion know-how, it was plucked from the SS19 collection and is currently priced at 1,000. A Dries Van Noten coat and neon heels also made an appearance [Photo: Getty] A pair of neon heels finished the ensemble and subsequently ticked yet another trend from the SS19 list. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo Style UK: A wanted man who was mistaken for Interior CS Fred Matiangi in the Sh400 million fake gold scandal on Monday surrendered to the police. Mr. Joseph Ogendo, who unsuccessfully contested for the Nyando Parliamentary seat in 2017, presented himself to the DCI headquarters on Kiambu Road. This after a poster was circulated on social media purporting that he was wanted by police over the gold scandal involving the Dubai royal family. Speaking to reporters, Mr Ogenda pleaded his innocence saying he has nothing to do with the fake gold scam. I could not comprehend it because it is a bad thing, I have never dealt in (gold business). I never knew my name can come up in a wrong way but Im reading malice and politics in the whole thing, said the former civil servant. Ogendo noted that he has been a public servant for over 25 years. I worked as a civil servant with Kenya Revenue Authority. I served at the ministry of finance for some years, I joined VAT (department) then KRA. For over 25 years I have been a civil servant. He resigned in 2017 to contest for the Nyando parliamentary seat. Berlin (AFP) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel's favoured successor was swept into a new storm Tuesday, with her apparent call for limits to free speech around elections stoking further anger rather than putting down a raging youth-led YouTube revolt. Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer's call for "rules" for online media around election-time came after her Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its centre-left coalition partner SPD suffered their worst scores in Sunday's European parliamentary vote. The CDU, in particular, had been put on the back foot in the days leading up to the polls as 70 YouTube stars urged voters to punish the party for its failure to take adequate action to halt global warming. Addressing the debacle on Monday, Kramp-Karrenbauer called for checks on the online influencers, saying that if 70 newspaper editors had made a concerted call to boycott parties ahead of an election, that would be classed "clearly as propaganda". "The question is... what are rules from the analogue realm and which rules should apply to the digital realm? "I'll tackle this discussion quite aggressively," said Kramp-Karrenbauer, or AKK as she is dubbed in Germany. Her comments immediately unleashed a storm with #AKKRuecktritt (AKKresign), #annegate and #AKKgate making up the top three topics trending on Twitter in Germany. - Insulting musings' - Kramp-Karrenbauer then took to Twitter to defend her comments, saying it was "ridiculous to insinuate that I want to regulate expressions of opinion". "Freedom of opinion is a precious value in a democracy. "What we have to talk about are rules that apply during elections," she wrote on Twitter. But that only fanned the fires, with leading media and political figures reminding her of Article five in the German constitution guaranteeing freedom of opinion, speech and writing. "With her insulting musings on 'propaganda' and control of it, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer confirms the criticism of young YouTubers -- and reveals her authoritarian thinking," said Spiegel Online. Story continues For the German Federation of Journalists (DJV), AKK's call was "not just nonsense but also a violation of the constitution". Lars Klingbeil, general secretary of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), warned that any attempt at limiting freedom of speech would "definitely not be possible with my party". "This is absurd. Nobody would get upset if an actor or an athlete made an election recommendation," he added. Merkel herself also dubbed the uproar "absurd." "All those I know in the CDU... support the idea of freedom of expression as a basic principle," she said after an EU leaders summit in Brussels. - Petition to 'stop the censorship - Two YouTubers -- an 87-year-old called Marmeladenoma and a 29-year-old, HerrNewstime, launched a petition addressed to AKK, telling her to "stop the censorship and attack against freedom of opinion". By Tuesday afternoon, 32,000 people had signed the petition. AKK, 56, replaced Merkel as head of the CDU last December and is expected to seek the top job when Merkel's term ends in 2021. But her popularity ratings have fallen to close to 20 percentage points behind Merkel's. And her latest misadventure has left some wondering if she was suitable to succeed Merkel as Germany's leader. CDU heavyweight Armin Laschet on Tuesday also voiced disapproval at AKK's latest comment -- saying that "one could have been smarter in the last few days." Within the CDU, Merkel herself came under fire over her environmental policy. "After the result of these European elections, the CDU should wonder why, after 14 years of the 'climate chancellor', we are falling short of our climate goals," Friedrich Merz, an also-ran in the contest to succeed Merkel, told the Spiegel. The CDU has been struggling to find a response after it was caught off guard by an almost hour-long blistering attack by online star Rezo, who blamed the centre-right-led coalition for failing to tackle poverty and climate change. Posted online on May 18, the clip had been viewed 12.7 million times by Tuesday. Rezo received the backing of the 70 other influential online stars, who two days before the EU polls posted a joint call to shun the CDU, SPD as well as the far-right AfD. The CDU ended up receiving just 13 percent of the vote among under-30s, compared with the Greens, who garnered three times as many. Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, chairwoman of the German Christian Democratic Union party. Credit: AP Photo/Michael Sohn The head of Germanys governing party is under fire for suggesting tougher regulations on political debate online during elections just a day after her party suffered major losses in European polls. Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, who replaced Angela Merkel as head of Germanys Christian Democratic Union (CDU) last year, floated the idea of creating new rules for election periods governing opinion formers on the internet on Monday. She made the comments in response to a viral video by German YouTube star Rezo last week, which accused the Christian and Social Democrats of dividing Germany. The YouTuber urged viewers not to vote for the two major parties in the European parliamentary elections over the weekend, with the hour-long video viewed more than 12 million times so far. Germanys two ruling parties did then suffer major losses, putting the coalition government in Berlin at risk of collapse. READ MORE: Europes centrist parties suffer losses in EU elections Politicians across the spectrum expressed their disbelief that the CDU leader would call for what they effectively see as curbs on free speech. By Tuesday afternoon, the top three trending tags on German Twitter were #AKKRuecktritt (AKKresignation), #AKKgate, and #Meinungsmache (opinion building), respectively. Niema Movassat, the leader of the Left in parliament, tweeted: "The statement of the CDU leader AKK today on comments by influencers is an unprecedented attack on freedom of expression. FDP leader Christian Lindner tweeted: "@akk is considering the regulation of opinion before elections ... I can hardly believe this. On the contrary, we need more open debate, including in social media. Lawyer Joachim Wieland said her suggestion was questionable from a constitutional point of view, telling Handelsblatt: "What Mrs. Kramp-Karrenbauer calls opinion-building is an expression of constitutionally guaranteed freedom of speech and of the press." Kramp-Karrenbauer responded to the criticism on Twitter, saying that free expression was a higher good of democracy. Story continues She went on: When influential journalists or YouTubers call for non-voting or even the demolition of democratic middle parties, that is a matter of political culture. It is the parties in the middle that defend democratic values every day." READ MORE: A decisive moment: what the election results mean for Europe The big election triumph in Germany at the weekend went to the Greens, which scooped second place with 20.5% of the vote. They finished a narrow second to the CDU, which won 28.9%, in a significant drop on the 35% it won in the 2014 European election. Germanys two biggest parties, the CDU and Social Democrats (SPD) lost a combined one million voters to the Greens in the European election, mainly younger voters. The Social Democrats won just over 15% overall and took a second beating in the Bremen state election on Sunday. Kramp-Karrenbauer took over the CDU party leadership from Angela Merkel last year. She is a seen as a strong contender to become the next chancellor of Germany, either when Merkels final term ends in 2021 or before that if the governing coalition collapses and snap elections are called. READ MORE: Merkels legacy as the most powerful woman in Europe plans to step down By Dave Graham MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexico's leftist president, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, is poised to hammer a fractured opposition this weekend in the first electoral test of his strength since taking office, despite presiding over an economy in reverse and rising violence. Lopez Obrador's National Regeneration Movement (MORENA) is cruising toward victory in gubernatorial races in the border state of Baja California and the central region of Puebla, the two biggest posts among dozens up for grabs on June 2. Opinion polls show the vow made by Lopez Obrador to clean up politics, which propelled him to victory last July, still resonates with voters more than warnings from discredited adversaries that his centralizing urges concentrate too much power in one person and are encouraging arbitrary decision-making. Voter surveys give Jaime Bonilla, the MORENA candidate in Baja California, more than double the support of all rivals. Miguel Barbosa, the Puebla contender, holds a slimmer lead but still was 16 percentage points clear once undecided voters were stripped out in a poll published on Monday. "The wave from last July 1 is still very strong, the MORENA wave," Mario Delgado, MORENA's leader in the lower house of Congress, told Reuters, predicting defeat for the center-right National Action Party (PAN) still governing the two states. "These are governments synonymous with what people voted to change," he said, "governments heavily associated with corruption." Lopez Obrador has little to show yet for his fight against corruption but there are signs that may be changing. On Monday, the Finance Ministry said it had blocked the bank accounts of a former boss of state oil firm Pemex, Emilio Lozoya, on suspicion of conducting illegal financial operations. Lozoya was a close ally of Lopez Obrador's predecessor as president, Enrique Pena Nieto. SETBACKS The six months since Lopez Obrador took office on Dec. 1 have not been smooth sailing. Some officials say the government's promise to run a tight budget has created shortfalls in public services including hospitals, a complaint that sparked the first major resignation from the Lopez Obrador administration last week. Meanwhile, u-turns made by the president on Pena Nieto's economic policies and doubts about the future of the debt-laden Pemex have rattled financial markets. He also has failed to curb surging violence and a new national security force has yet to be deployed. So far, murders are on track to surpass the 2018 record of nearly 29,000. Although he has pledged to lift economic growth, the economy contracted 0.2% quarter-on-quarter during the first three months of 2019. The setbacks have taken some of the shine off Lopez Obrador's popularity, which rose as high as 80 percent in some surveys during his first few weeks. A daily tracking poll by pollster Mitofsky shows that approval for Lopez Obrador has dipped from nearly 68% in mid-April to about 62% at the start of this week. "The most urgent matter is to pacify the country and make Mexicans feel safe again," Delgado said. "And secondly, I think government spending needs to be speeded up to counter the (economic) trend of the first quarter." At present Lopez Obrador has little to fear from the opposition, which he has relentlessly castigated as the source of political corruption during his daily news conferences. In an illustration of how the combative Lopez Obrador is remaking the political map of Mexico, some prominent figures long allied to the parties he has pilloried have come out in support of MORENA at Sunday's votes. "The opposition is decimated, divided and has no credibility," said Fernando Belaunzaran, a trenchant critic of the president from the Party of the Democratic Revolution - a center-left party that Lopez Obrador once led but now opposes him. (Reporting by Dave Graham; Editing by Frank Jack Daniel and Bill Trott) LANSING, Mich. Michigan State University's next president is Samuel Stanley Jr., a medical doctor who is the current leader of Stony Brook University in New York. The board hired Stanley, the first president from outside the university since 1985, at a special meeting Tuesday morning. "Today represents a pivotal moment in MSU's 164-year history," board member Melanie Foster, who co-chaired the search committee, said. The board voted unanimously. Stanley is first permanent president at MSU since Lou Anna Simon who is currently facing criminal charges stepped down in the wake of the Larry Nassar scandal. Since then, two other interim presidents have served, including former Michigan Gov. John Engler, who was forced from office. Samuel Stanley and his wife, Dr. Ellen Li, sit in the audience while the Michigan State University board approves his hire on Tuesday, May 28, 2019. Stanley has been president at Stony Brook, a public university on Long Island and part of the State University of New York system, since 2009. Stanley, from Seattle, has a bachelor's degree from the University of Chicago and his medical degree from Harvard Medical School. He did his resident training at Massachusetts General Hospital. He went to Washington University in St. Louis in 1983 for a fellowship in infectious diseases, eventually becoming a professor in the Departments of Medicine and Molecular Microbiology. In 2006, Stanley was appointed vice chancellor for research at Washington University. His academic record was key to the board, Byrum said, noting his time as a professor as well in administration at universities. She said the board heard from students and faculty who wanted a person who had been in many positions in academia. More: Samuel Stanley Jr.'s official biography Lou Anna Simon hearing: Larry Nassar is guilty of sexual assault. Did Michigan State's ex-president lie to police about him? Stanley steps in to lead a university rocked by scandal and controversy, something he acknowledged in his remarks. "I'm so excited about the trajectory you are on," he told those at the board meeting. "At the same time, I see a community ... that needed healing. I want to meet with the survivors and hear their voices and thoughts. What happened at MSU will not be forgotten. Instead, it will drive everything we do." Story continues First came news that Nassar, a staff doctor at MSU and doctor to the U.S. gymnastics team, had sexually assaulted hundreds of young women. Then came news that MSU had known about his abuse and cleared him of abuse allegations years before he was arrested. Nassar's boss, William Strampel, is facing criminal charges of sexually assaulting students himself and not providing proper oversight to Nassar. MSU knew about Strampel's issues with female students for more than a decade, but did nothing. Strampel's boss, Simon, resigned in January 2018 under intense campus and public pressure for what many regarded as insensitive comments and actions toward Nassar survivors. She has since been criminally charged with lying to police about what she knew about Nassar. Seated next to her attorney Mayer Morganroth, former MSU President Lou Anna Simon appears in District Judge Julie Reincke's courtroom, Tuesday, April 9, 2019, in Charlotte, Michigan for the third day of her preliminary hearing. Simon faces four charges, including two felonies, because investigators say she lied to police about when she knew about a sexual assault report against former MSU doctor Larry Nassar. [USA Today Network/Matthew Dae Smith/Lansing State Journal] MSU's board then brought in Engler as interim president as pressure mounted from legislators who said they would strip MSU's state funding. Engler, a power player in Republican circles for decades, mollified legislators and forged a $500 million settlement with more than 300 Nassar survivors. Another 160-plus Nassar survivors have sued MSU in a second wave of lawsuits. But Engler had missteps as well and drew criticism for, among other things, accusing a Nassar survivor of taking kickbacks from attorneys, hiring his cronies to prominent and lucrative spots in his administration and making repeated offensive comments toward sexual assault survivors. 'Serious noncompliance': MSU cited for 'serious noncompliance' with federal campus safety law related to Larry Nassar case John Engler resigns: Michigan State University interim president resigns following comments about Nassar survivors After November 2018 elections brought new board members to MSU, Engler was forced out. Satish Udpa, executive vice president for administration, was named acting president. Former MSU interim President John Engler, right, pictured alongside trustee Joel Ferguson Friday, Oct. 26, 2018, during the MSU Board of Trustees Meeting at the Hannah Administration building. At the same time, a committee made up of board members and representatives from various groups was searching for the next permanent president. That search occurred completely behind closed doors. The names of those applying or making the cut as finalists are not known to the public. The board has said since the beginning of the search the only way to get quality candidates is to keep every name secret. "These high-caliber candidates will not remain in the pool for consideration if their identities are made public," the committee said in a February update. "All members of the search committee and the Board of Trustees have signed confidentiality statements. The commitment to confidentiality is crucial to attracting and hiring the best possible person to be the next president of MSU." The closed search has rankled many on campus, including an advocacy group named Reclaim MSU, which issued the following open letter to presidential candidates earlier this year. "We recognize that most recent searches for university presidents are conducted confidentially. However, MSU is not like most universities. On our campus, hundreds of student athletes and patients experienced decades of sexual abuse because university officials ignored them," the group said. Nassar investigation one year later: A year ago today, Larry Nassar was sentenced to an effective lifetime in prison Report: Michigan State's actions 'made it virtually impossible to know' truth about Nassar "Our former president has been charged with lying under oath regarding the Nassar investigation. And our interim president has claimed privately and publicly under oath that survivors are lying. At the same time, he lies about the reasons that MSU closed the healing assistance fund set up to help support survivors of Nassars abuse and their families. We are advocating for an open search and will continue to do so. However, we urge you to engage publicly with the entire MSU community. We need you to challenge MSUs secrecy and lack of accountability. Now, before you are hired." Michigan law exempts university president searches from the open meeting act and public records laws. In keeping the search closed, MSU mirrors a trend across much of higher education. Oakland University, in Rochester, Michigan, was a notable exception in its last search for a president. It held candidate town halls with finalists that were open to anyone. Follow David Jesse on Twitter: @reporterdavidj This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan State University names Stony Brook leader Samuel Stanley as new president Tim Plakas, once the leader of over-the-counter (OTC) trading at Coinbase, has left the exchange to bolster Galaxy Digitals OTC efforts, according to a source close to the situation. It is not yet clear what Plakas position will be within Galaxys OTC unit. Plakas' exit leaves Ben Floyd manning Coinbase's OTC desk. Plakas, who joined the firm in July 2018, led the desk prior to Floyd's January arrival at the company as head of OTC. Plakas previously held positions at Citigroup in equity sales and trading and investor relations. The Fordham University graduate served seven years in the United States Air Force, according to his LinkedIn profile. His exit follows a number of other departures in Coinbase's institutional unit, including Christine Sandler, who left to join Fidelity earlier this year, and Hunter Merghart, who recently joined rival exchange Bitstamp from Coinbase. In the fall of 2018, Coinbase announced the launch of its OTC desk as a way for institutions to enter crypto trading. The OTC model is a more attractive point of entry for some institutions since transactions are brokered privately between buyers and sellers. Coinbase's plan to launch an OTC business was in the works before Plakas was brought on, but came to fruition during his time there. In March, CoinDesk reported Coinbases OTC desk had facilitated its first trade from cold storage, speeding up the trading process. The business, according to Coinbase, has see volume grow 100% quarter over quarter. "Coinbase Pro, OTC and Custody are some of the areas were most aggressively growing headcount this year," the firm said in late April. As for Galaxy, it is a member of the CORA group with other OTC-focused companies seeking to to further talks around settlement standards for over-the-counter trading. Other members of the Galaxy team include Joshua Lim, head of trading strategy. He previously was a director at UBS, where he worked on its central risk book. Kenyan leaders will surely show us things. Following Waititus arrest, or rather, leisurely stroll to EACC headquarters last Thursday, governors are now demanding to be treated with dignity during arrests. Apparently, the manner in which Waititu was escorted to Integrity Center last week was inhuman. The County bosses, through their umbrella body Council of Governors (CoG), argue that whereas they do not tolerate graft, they deserve the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. CoG Chairman Mr Wycliffe Oparanya says they must be treated with decorum by the crime busters by virtue of the authority of their offices. Bobigny (France) (AFP) - A Paris court on Tuesday began hearing a case brought by a mother and daughter who, in a legal first in France, are suing the state for damages over ill health caused by air pollution. The mother and the daughter are asking for 160,000 euros ($179,000) in damages from the state at the administrative court of Montreuil in the east of Paris. They argue the authorities did not take effective measures against atmospheric pollution, in particular during the very high pollution that Paris endured in December 2016. The pair say this had an effect on their health, especially as they were living at the time in the northern Paris suburb of Saint-Ouen, just outside the clogged peripherique ring road. The peripherique -- opened in 1973 -- takes 1.1 million drivers a day but is also a nightmare for the 100,000 people living around it. Both say they developed respiratory problems that were accentuated during pollution peaks. The mother, 52, has had to take time off work and the daughter, 16, suffered asthma crises. They have since moved to the city of Orleans on doctors' advice and their health has improved considerably, says lawyer Francois Lafforgue. Their legal team argues that French authorities failed to implement rules to better protect the population, did not use all the measures at their disposal and did not properly enforce measures when agreed. In total, around 50 people across France are taking similar actions against the French state, said Sebastien Vray, the founder of the NGO Respire, which assists the cases of the plaintiffs. He said the fact the case has come to court is already a victory. "When I founded Respire eight years ago I had the aim that one day there would be a legal link between pollution heights and an individual's illness." Both Vray and Lafforgue said this is the first time such a case has reached a court in France. In France, air pollution is responsible for 48,000 premature deaths every year, according to the Public Health France agency. Story continues In December 2016, Paris was smothered in its worst winter pollution in a decade, with authorities ordering odd and even number plate cars off the roads on alternate days. It was only the fourth time such a measure had been taken following severe pollution episodes in 1997, 2014 and 2015. As pollution climbs up the political agenda ahead of 2020 municipal elections, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo is looking at proposals to limit pollution on the peripherique, including cutting the speed limit to 50 kilometres per hour (30 mph). Three other similar cases are due to be looked at by the Paris administrative court in June, according to Lafforgue. In May 2018, the European Commission took France and five other countries to the European Court of Justice for failing to apply long-sought steps to improve air quality. In France's case the move came after 12 years of warnings over fine particles as well as nitrogen dioxide levels, which in some cities were more than double EU limits. The Navy has updated its guidelines for pilots to report unidentified flying objects, the New York Times reported, following a series of mysterious sightings off the East Coast. The sightings took place four to five years ago, and the article did not explain why the guidelines, originally issued in 2015, were updated earlier this year. The Navy pilots will be part of a new History Channel series, Unidentified: Inside Americas UFO Investigation. The N.Y. Times story, which was widely circulated this week, represented a publicity coup for the network. The newspaper says pilots based on the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt saw the objects some of which they described as spinning like tops and reaching 30,000 feet during the summer of 2014 through March 2015 in training exercises off the Atlantic coast from Virginia to Florida. In 2014, a F/A-18 Super Hornet pilot reported nearly colliding with one. Two pilots were quoted by name in the story. They said they began to see the objects after receiving upgraded radar systems. Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: U.S. Navy, Getty Images People have seen strange stuff in military aircraft for decades, Lt. Ryan Graves said. Were doing this very complex mission, to go from 30,000 feet, diving down. It would be a pretty big deal to have something up there. The N.Y. Times story includes grainy video captured by the planes camera. The Navy adjusted its reporting methods for what the military calls unexplained aerial phenomena following the Roosevelt incidents. There were a number of different reports, said Navy spokesman Joseph Gradisher, adding that although some cases could be commercial drones, in regard to others, We dont know whos doing this, we dont have enough data to track this. So the intent of the message to the fleet is to provide updated guidance on reporting procedures for suspected intrusions into our airspace. A scene from the History Channel's "Unidentified: Inside Americas UFO Investigation." (Image: History Channel) There have been other such reports over the years. In 2017, the same reporters published a story about how former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., had pushed for funding for the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, which investigated unexplained aerial sightings. The program ran from 2007 to 2012. Story continues Im not embarrassed or ashamed or sorry I got this thing going, said Reid in a 2017 N.Y. Times interview. I think its one of the good things I did in my congressional service. Ive done something that no one has done before. That story coincided with the publication of a Pentagon video showing a 2004 incident in which two Navy pilots investigated an unidentified object off the coast of San Diego, Calif. Cmdr. David Fravor, one of the pilots involved, told the N.Y. Times that he has no idea what he saw but that it had no plumes, wings or rotors and outran our F-18s. The Air Forces Project Blue Book, a classified program set up in 1952, counted over 12,000 UFO sightings over its 17-year existence, with hundreds still unexplained. A 2006 report of a disk hovering over OHare Airport in Chicago was dismissed by the Federal Aviation Administration as a weather anomaly. The 1947 crash of a high-altitude balloon in Roswell, N.M., inspired generations of conspiracy theories about flying saucers. The unmanned craft was part of a top-secret program to monitor Soviet weapons tests. Experts say there are plenty of explanations for what the pilots are seeing that dont necessarily mean extraterrestrials are cruising around earth, including atmospheric phenomena and classified military programs from the U.S. or other countries. Although President Trump has shown interest in expanding the militarys presence outside the atmosphere via a Space Force, supporters of the initiative say it is about protecting American satellites, not recreating Star Wars-type battles with enemy invaders. By Azad and Lashkari ERBIL, Iraq (Reuters) - Regional lawmakers elected Nechirvan Barzani as president of the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region of Iraq, a spokesman for the regional parliament told Reuters on Tuesday. Barzani, a leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) who had been serving as regional prime minister, won 68 votes from the 81 lawmakers present. The regional legislature has 111 seats in total. He is the nephew of the previous and only other holder of the office, Masoud Barzani. However, the proceedings were boycotted by the region's second-biggest party, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and two small parties, because of a rift between the main political forces in Iraq's Kurdistan region. The two parties are at odds over several key positions in the regional government. The PUK wants to split key regional posts among the parties. It also wants a clear power-sharing agreement with the KDP. "Kurdistan Democratic Party must not sideline or marginalize other political partners and insist on taking unilateral decisions," said PUK spokesman Sheikh Omar. The KDP's historical rival and junior coalition partner in government, the PUK took second place with 21 seats in last year's parliamentary election. In December, the KDP nominated Nechirvan Barzani to succeed his uncle Masoud Barzani as president of Iraqi Kurdistan. It nominated Masoud Barzanis son Masrour as premier of the regional government. Masrour Barzani is currently Iraqi Kurdistan's security chief. Both Masrour and Nechirvan have occupied senior roles in the Kurdistan region throughout the last decade. Nechirvan Barzani is expected to nominate Masrour Barzani to succeed him as a regional prime minister. (Reporting by Azad Lashkari; Writing by Ahmed Aboulenein and Ahmed Rasheed; editing by Larry King) (Correcting days of week in paragraphs 7,13,19,23) * Israeli leader has until Wednesday to form government * Former defense chief Lieberman's party a crucial hold-out * Parliament takes initial moves towards new election * Netanyahu declared victory after April 9 ballot By Jeffrey Heller JERUSALEM, May 28 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to declare himself winner of last month's Israeli election, but he now has until Wednesday to appease an erstwhile ally, form a government and avoid a possible rematch. The man at the center of the crisis in Netanyahu's coalition-building, former Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman, is sticking to his guns in a stalemate over military draft exemptions for Jewish seminary students. The brinkmanship six weeks after the April 9 election poses another challenge to the decade-long reign of the right-wing leader some Israelis have hailed as "King Bibi" and deepens political uncertainty in a country riven with division. Barring a breakthrough, Israel could hold a new election, with parliament already making initial moves towards a fresh poll and legislators proposing September for the national vote. Without the support of Lieberman's far-right Yisrael Beitenu party, which has five seats in the 120-member Knesset, Netanyahu cannot put together a majority government led by his Likud party. Under a deadline mandated by law, he has until 2100 GMT on Wednesday to announce a new administration. Political commentators were hedging their bets. "Netanyahu is a wounded animal. The man is fighting for his life, and we shouldn't make light of his abilities," columnist Yossi Verter wrote in the left-wing Haaretz daily on Tuesday. Rivals had already smelled blood in the water when Israel's attorney general said in February he intends to charge Netanyahu in three graft cases. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing, saying he is the victim of a political witch-hunt. Story continues But in the closely contested April election, Netanyahu - dubbed "crime minister" by his opponents - appeared on course for a fifth term as head of a right-wing bloc. All it would take, according to conventional wisdom, was the usual wheeling and dealing on cabinet posts and allied factions' pet projects. Few imagined Netanyahu would not put a coalition together, even after he asked for and received a two-week extension to an original 28-day deadline. WILD CARD Suddenly, Lieberman became a wild card and the clock was ticking, with Netanyahu facing a scenario in which President Reuven Rivlin could pick another legislator to try to form a government if he failed. "A lot can be done in 48 hours," Netanyahu said on Monday after parliament gave initial approval to a motion to dissolve itself. "The voters' wishes can be respected, a strong right-wing government can be formed," he said. If efforts to break the political deadlock fail, parliament would take a final vote on an election on Wednesday. A new ballot would mean Rivlin could not choose someone else to put together a governing coalition. But political commentators said it was still unclear if Netanyahu could muster the required 61 votes to pass the motion. The ball would then be in Rivlin's court, leaving Netanyahu, who last lost an election in 1999, on unfamiliar sidelines looking in. Lieberman, an immigrant from the former Soviet Union, began his climb up the Israeli political ladder as a Netanyahu aide and has long insisted ultra-Orthodox Jewish seminary students share other Israeli Jews's burden of compulsory military service. That has put him at odds with United Torah Judaism in the coalition negotiations, a schism that has played well with Lieberman's support base of Russian-speakers - some of them non-Jews under Orthodox criteria who came to Israel under a right of return for anyone claiming at least one Jewish grandparent. "Yisrael Beitenu's only motive is standing on principle and the commitments we made to the public before, during and after the election," Lieberman said on Tuesday. But for long-time Lieberman watchers, it's a clear power play by a bare-knuckle politician who once worked as a nightclub bouncer and now seeks, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Tzipi Hotovely of Likud, to seize control of the "national camp." "According to Lieberman's calculations, Netanyahu's time in power is nearing its end. To preserve his own, he knows this is the moment to jump ship," Anshel Pfeffer, who wrote a biography of Netanyahu, said in Haaretz. "And he's doing so carefully, choosing a matter of principle - the military draft law ... as the issue on which to break with Netanyahu." On Twitter on Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in on the internal Israeli political dispute, expressing support for an ally he calls by his nickname. "Hoping things will work out with Israel's coalition formation and Bibi and I can continue to make the alliance between America and Israel stronger than ever," Trump tweeted, using Netanyahu's nickname. "A lot more to do!" Both leaders have been in lockstep over policy towards the Palestinians, who have accused Trump of being partial towards Israel, and Iran. Netanyahu featured Trump in election billboards placed prominently in Israeli cities. Since Georgia passed a bill earlier this month that effectively bans abortion after six weeks, most major production companies with ties to the state have stayed quiet. Thanks in part to a generous tax incentive there, Georgia is home to a thriving film industry, which stands to be impacted significantly if major Hollywood players demonstrate their disapproval of the legislation by pulling productions. But on Monday, Netflixs chief content officer Ted Sarandos issued a statement to Variety protesting the bill and pledging action against it. We have many women working on productions in Georgia, whose rights, along with millions of others, will be severely restricted by this law. Its why we will work with the ACLU and others to fight it in court, the statement read. Given the legislation has not yet been implemented, well continue to film therewhile also supporting partners and artists who choose not to. Should it ever come into effect, wed rethink our entire investment in Georgia. Netflix shoots many of its films and shows in Georgia. The upcoming season of their tentpole show Stranger Things was filmed there. Insatiable, whose star Alyssa Milano has been an outspoken critic of the new law and has urged for a boycott in response to the law, is in the midst of shooting its second season in Georgia. Ozark is also currently filming around the Atlanta areabut its star Jason Bateman vowed to boycott the state if the bill becomes law. Last week, TIME reported that two major productionsAmazons The Power, directed by Reed Morano, and Lionsgates Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, starring Kristen Wiig, pulled out of Georgia following Gov. Kemps signing of the bill. Netflix isnt the only production company that has pledged to assist the ACLU in fighting the bill in court: Jordan Peeles Monkeypaw Productions and J.J. Abrams Bad Robot promised to donate all of their episodic fees for their upcoming show Lovecraft Country to the ACLUs legal efforts. Media personality Kirigo Ngarua responded with class and sass after a troll on social media attempted to clothes-shame her. The former Citizen TV news presenter is a quite the looker and it appears some people have been getting bothered by her dashing looks. Apparently, someone commented that she should dress decently. In her response on Monday evening, Kirigo was seemingly unbothered as she showed off her stunning legs in a little black dress. She captioned the snap, Some human commented somewhere that I should dress decently. Not sure what that means and to be honest I cant be botheredAlso I have beautiful legs so I have to show them off once in a while ??? The snap was taken at her besties Terryanne Chebets Great Gatsby themed birthday party. The birthday girl Terryanne Chebet commented below the picture, You looked absolutely stunning! Leg day every day ?? Fellow media girl Lillian Muli simply wrote, Lol while actress and plus size fashion designer/model Neomi Nganga added, Hoootnesss. Gospel musician Kambua said, I mean! ??? while Citizen TV producer Monica Kiragu said told Kirigo, Looking gorgeous my love A fan advised Kirigos haters to try yoga, Wenye wivu wapractice yoga wajinyonge na miguu yao. Abuja (AFP) - Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has vowed to continue his crackdown against corrupt officials, in a tough speech ahead of his second term in power. "My frustration is that we cannot move faster in prosecution and punishment of corrupt persons," Buhari told state television, in an interview broadcast late Monday. "We made some progress, we recovered a number of fixed assets and money in banks including Europe and America." Buhari, 76, was re-elected in February and is due to be sworn into office for his next four-year term on Wednesday. He came to power in 2015 on a promise to tackle endemic corruption, but critics have accused him of a political witch-hunt as many of those targeted are opposition members. Buhari said he would push on with rooting out rampant corruption in Nigeria, Africa's biggest oil producer, saying the legal process was what had slowed progress so far. "Even if you are using whistle blowers, you have to go to the police... to go through the rigmarole of full investigation before prosecution," he added. "The frustration is it's taking too long... I need to see that those who have frustrated our economy are punished." His last term was held up by squabbles with lawmakers in the National Assembly, who, among other things, blocked the passing of last year's budget for several months. Buhari criticised those who had opposed him. "When they go around posing that they are the government, not the executive, then that is the problem," Buhari said. "I told them, how do they feel to hold the country to ransom for seven months without passing a budget? I said, personally they are not hurting me, they were hurting the country. So really in terms of patriotism, I think I rated them very, very low indeed." London (AFP) - Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said Tuesday that Britain's governing Conservative Party would be committing "political suicide" if it tried to force through a no-deal Brexit. Hunt, who is among the 10 declared candidates vying to replace the outgoing Theresa May as Britain's prime minister, said trying to take the UK out of the EU without a deal would trigger a general election in which the Conservatives risked "extinction". The newly-formed Brexit Party led by Nigel Farage topped last week's European Parliament elections in Britain. The pro-EU Liberal Democrats came second, with the opposition Labour Party third and the Conservatives back in fifth place. "The results contain a simple message which we ignore at our peril: if we attempt a general election before we have delivered Brexit we will be annihilated," Hunt wrote in The Daily Telegraph newspaper. Hunt said any prime minister who promised to leave the European Union by a specific date, without the time to renegotiate and pass a new deal, would effectively be committing to a general election because parliament would bring down the government. "Any candidate for prime minister whose strategy leads inexorably to a general election is offering a prospectus for disaster," he wrote. "Trying to deliver no deal through a general election is not a solution. It is political suicide." Rival leadership candidates, including former foreign secretary Boris Johnson and former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab, have said Britain must be prepared to leave the EU without a deal. Britain is due to leave the bloc on October 31, while the next general election is not due until 2022. Entering a post-elections EU summit in Brussels on Tuesday, May told reporters: "The best option for the UK is to leave the EU with a deal." She said the elections had been "deeply disappointing" for the Conservatives and showed her eventual successor the importance of "actually delivering on Brexit". Story continues - Free citizenship plan - As the leadership race got underway, the contenders began setting out their stall with policy announcements. Environment Secretary Michael Gove said he would offer free British citizenship to three million EU nationals who resided in Britain at the time of the June 2016 referendum. "It's the right thing to do. As PM I will guarantee EU nationals' rights and waive the fee for British citizenship. I'm ready to unite the country and ready to lead us out of the EU," he said on Twitter. Raab launched his campaign website and a "fairness" agenda, including seeking "a fairer deal from the EU as we leave". May will step down as Conservative leader on June 7 and stay on as prime minister until her successor is chosen -- a process that should be concluded by July 20. Housing minister Kit Malthouse is the latest candidate to enter the leadership race. He headed up the so-called Malthouse Compromise -- a plan by pro- and anti-Brexit Conservative MPs intended to find a way through the impasse and get a divorce deal with Brussels. "We need to end the Brexit paralysis," he wrote in The Sun newspaper. Meanwhile the main opposition Labour Party, which has pursued a policy dubbed "constructive ambiguity" on Brexit, hinted it could inch towards throwing its weight fully behind a second referendum. Interior affairs spokeswoman Diane Abbott told BBC radio that Labour was "moving towards a clearer line" in the light of their European elections plunge. BRASILIA, May 28 (Reuters) - There are no signs that a spate of deadly prison violence in the northern Brazilian city of Manaus will spread to other parts of the country, the presidential spokesman said on Tuesday. The spokesman, Otavio Rego Barros, told reporters that far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, who has pledged to clean up the country's overcrowded prisons, was concerned by the violence. At least 40 prisoners in Brazil were found strangled to death on Monday in four jails in the Amazon city, where a fight between rival gangs resulted in 15 dead the day before. (Reporting by Ricardo Brito Editing by Leslie Adler) * U.N. issues report on "corruption, repression" in North Korea * Says N. Korean officials extort money from struggling population * Report based on testimony from 214 "escapees" from northeast * Pyongyang blames sanctions for dire humanitarian situation By Stephanie Nebehay GENEVA, May 28 (Reuters) - North Koreans are forced to pay bribes to officials to survive in their isolated country, where corruption is "endemic" and repression rife, the United Nations human rights office said on Tuesday. Officials across North Korea extort money from a population struggling to make ends meet, threatening them with detention and prosecution - particularly those working in the informal economy, it said in a report. There was no immediate comment by Pyongyang, which was sent the U.N. report hours before publication. North Korea blames the dire humanitarian situation on U.N. sanctions imposed for its nuclear and ballistic missile programs since 2006. But the report said that the military receives priority funding amid "economic mismanagement." "I am concerned that the constant focus on the nuclear issue continues to divert attention from the terrible state of human rights for many millions of North Koreans," Michelle Bachelet, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, said in a statement. "The rights to food, health, shelter, work, freedom of movement and liberty are universal and inalienable, but in North Korea they depend primarily on the ability of individuals to bribe State officials," she said. Four in 10 North Koreans, or 10.1 million people, are chronically short of food and further cuts to already minimal rations are expected after the worst harvest in a decade, a U.N. assessment said earlier this month. "The threat of arrest, detention and prosecution provide State officials with a powerful means of extorting money from a population struggling to survive," the U.N. rights office report said. Story continues Bribery is "an everyday feature of people's struggle to make ends meet," said the report, entitled "The price is rights." It denounced what it called a "vicious cycle of deprivation, corruption and repression." It is based on 214 interviews with North Korean "escapees," mainly from the northeastern provinces of Ryanggang and North Hamgyong, bordering China. They were the first to be cut from the public distribution system that collapsed in 1994, leading to a famine estimated to have killed up to 1 million, it said. "If you just follow instructions coming from the State, you starve to death," a woman from Ryanggang, now living in South Korea, was quoted as saying. CASH OR CIGARETTES "If you have money you can get away with anything, including murder," another unnamed North Korean defector testified. Many North Koreans pay bribes of cash or cigarettes not to have to report to state-assigned jobs where they receive no salary, thus allowing them to earn income in rudimentary markets, the report said. Others bribe border guards to cross into China, where women are vulnerable to trafficking into forced marriages or the sex trade, it added. Bachelet urged North Korean authorities to stop prosecuting people for engaging in legitimate market activity and to allow them freedom of movement within the country and abroad. China should not forcibly repatriate North Koreans, she added. The United States called on North Korea this month to "dismantle all political prison camps" and release all political prisoners, who it said numbered between 80,000 and 120,000. (Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; Editing by Hugh Lawson) By Amanda Ferguson BELFAST (Reuters) - Northern Ireland's cross-community Alliance Party won its first seat in the European Parliament in a surge it said furthered the case for a re-run of Britain's Brexit referendum. Alliance leader Naomi Long took the second of three Northern Irish seats after campaigning for a second vote on Britain's divorce from the European Union. The British province, which voted to remain in the EU in the 2016 referendum but whose largest party props up the minority government in London and is an advocate of Brexit, returned more candidates in favour of staying in the EU than for leaving. The vote also indicated increasing support for candidates not aligned to the traditional Catholic or Protestant voting blocs. It was the best national showing for the Alliance Party, which was founded almost 50 years ago, just as Northern Ireland's violent period known as "The Troubles" deepened. "This is a vote about Brexit ... it's a vote to remain, it's a vote to have a people's vote," Long, close to tears, told reporters at the Belfast count centre. "People came together behind Alliance to send a message and that message is we want to stay in the EU." Pro-EU Irish nationalists Sinn Fein and the pro-Brexit Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which props up British Prime Minister Theresa May's government, each retained the seat they held, in a sweep for female candidates. Almost trebling the Alliance vote compared to the 2014 poll, to 18 percent, Long took the seat from the Ulster Unionist Party, to leave pro-British Unionist parties without a majority of Northern Ireland's European seats for the first time. Like Scotland, which also returned a majority of candidates seeking a Brexit rerun, Northern Ireland voted "remain" in the 2016 referendum but will leave with the rest of the UK after its citizens as a whole opted to quit the bloc. How the 500-km (311-mile) border between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland is managed after Brexit was one of the major obstacles that stopped May from ratifying in parliament the deal she reached with the EU. Story continues Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, who played a key role in that deal, which would keep the border open no matter how Britain leaves the EU, hailed Long's election as a historic, pro-European vote which would be "heard across the continent". Northern Ireland still overwhelmingly votes along traditional lines two decades after a peace deal ended 30 years of sectarian violence, choosing mainly Catholic nationalists who favour a united Ireland or predominantly Protestant unionists who want to remain British. Unionists also lost their majority at the last elections to the devolved assembly in 2017, however, and the Alliance were the biggest gainers at local council elections this month, closing the gap on the main blocs. With some support slipping from the main Irish nationalist and pro-British parties, the votes of those moving towards cross-community parties like the Alliance and Greens could also prove crucial in any future referendum on reunification with Ireland. (Writing by Padraic Halpin; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne and Catherine Evans) GENEVA, May 28 (Reuters) - Violence in northwest Nigeria has forced around 20,000 people to seek safety in neighboring Niger since April, the United Nations refugee agency said on Tuesday. It said the surge was not linked to Islamist group Boko Haram. "People are reportedly fleeing due to multiple reasons, including clashes between farmers and herders of different ethnic groups, vigilantism, as well as kidnappings for ransom," it said in a media briefing. (Reporting by Stephanie Ulmer-Nebehay; Writing by Alexis Akwagyiram; editing by John Stonestreet) Oslo (AFP) - Talks between representatives of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and self-proclaimed interim leader Juan Guaido are under way in Oslo under Norwegian auspices, sources close to the process told AFP on Tuesday. Norwegian diplomats had said Saturday that the two sides would meet this week in Norway, without specifying a date or venue. Maduro promised Monday to show "good faith" ahead of the talks, which kicked off Monday, lasting well into the night, the sources said, adding that they could end on Wednesday. No information filtered out regarding the content or form of the talks, the first face-to-face meeting between the two sides. The Norwegian foreign ministry declined to comment when contacted by AFP. The talks follow a months-long power struggle between Guaido, the leader of the National Assembly legislature, and the socialist president. "We are going to be showing our very best good faith... to be able to find, based on the platform the parties agreed on, peaceful, democratic solutions to help overcome Venezuela's conflict," Maduro said in a televised address. The Madrid-based newspaper ALnavio covering Latin American affairs said the main issue was the question of staging "free and fair" elections as demanded by Guaido. Maduro's delegation includes Communication Minister Jorge Rodriguez, Miranda state Governor Hector Rodriguez and Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza. ALnavio reported that the opposition is represented by former lawmaker Gerardo Blyde, former minister Fernando Martinez Mottola, deputy parliamentary speaker Stalin Gonzalez and former electoral official Vicente Diaz. Representatives of the two sides met separately with their Norwegian hosts earlier this month. Reports said the mediation effort was led by Dag Nylander, who played a key role in the 2016 peace accord between the Colombian government and FARC rebels. Maduro has been shunned by dozens of Western countries, but he retains the backing of Russia, China and Cuba, as well as his own country's powerful military. Celebrated Nairobi-based musician Jean-Pierre Nimbona, popularly known to many as Kidum, is repopulating the earth as God instructed in the book of Genesis. The Burundian musician and his Bungoma wife are months away from welcoming their first child together. The Haturudi Nyuma crooner announced the news on social media, posting pictures of his heavily pregnant wife on Instagram. Once delivered, the baby will be Kidums seventh child; six are from his previous failed marriages. Yes, Im married. Three times and with six children, Kidum said in a past interview. Adding, Not at the same time. I met my first wife when I was still a refugee. She was also a refugee. We stayed together for five years after which we separated. When I went back home to Burundi I met my second wife whom we stayed together for 10 years and then we separated. At this point, my music had started picking up and it was a little bit difficult to balance between career and family. I am now with my third wife. Speaking about his third wife, Kidum said he met her nine years ago while she was in University. LONDON, May 26 (Reuters) - It would not be sensible to aim only to leave the European Union without a deal but it would not be responsible to take no deal off the table, Boris Johnson, the bookmakers' favorite to succeed Theresa May as British prime minister, said on Sunday. On Friday former foreign minister Johnson said Britain should leave the bloc with or without a deal on Oct. 31. "No one sensible would aim exclusively for a no-deal outcome. No one responsible would take no-deal off the table," he wrote in his weekly column for the Daily Telegraph newspaper. "If we are courageous and optimistic, we can strike a good bargain with our friends across the Channel, come out well and on time by October 31 and start delivering on all the hopes and ambitions of the people." (Reporting by Kylie MacLellan; editing by Kate Holton) By Lisa Rapaport (Reuters Health) - Skilled nursing facilities in the U.S. often discharge Medicare patients before daily co-payments kick in, according to a new U.S. study that suggests some patients may be sent home for financial reasons before they're medically ready to leave. Medicare, the U.S. health program for the elderly and disabled, pays the entire bill for post-hospital care provided by skilled nursing facilities for the first 20 days within a benefit period, researchers note in JAMA Internal Medicine. After that, most patients become responsible for a daily co-payment of more than $150. To see how the start of co-payments might impact discharge timing, researchers examined data on more than 4.5million skilled nursing facility discharges from January 2012 through November 2016. Overall, a total of 220,037 patients were discharged on day 20, more than the 131,558 sent home on day 19 and the 121,339 released on day 21. Compared to patients discharged on days 19 or 21, those sent home on day 21 were more likely to suffer from multiple chronic medical conditions, live in poor neighborhoods, and be racial or ethnic minorities, the study found. "Our results suggest that skilled nursing facilities are more likely to discharge economically vulnerable patients right before their copay kicks in," lead study author Dr. Paula Chatterjee of the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia said by email. On day 20, for example, 12.5 percent of patients discharged were black or Hispanic, compared with 8.2 percent one day earlier and 7.5 percent one day later, the study found. And on day 20, 15.2 percent of patients discharged were living in poverty and 7.7 percent were unemployed. These economically vulnerable patients represented a smaller proportion of those discharged one day earlier or later. Most patients in the study had one or more chronic medical problems like asthma or diabetes or heart disease. Story continues On day 20, however, 42.2 percent of discharges were patients with at least five different chronic health problems, compared with 39.9 percent on day 19 and 40.6 percent on day 21. The study wasn't a controlled experiment designed to prove whether or how discharge timing might impact patient health. While day 20 may have been too soon for some patients to go home, it's also possible that some people remained in skilled nursing facilities through day 20 even though they were ready to leave sooner, said Dr. Kumar Dharmarajan, chief scientific officer of Clover Health and a researcher at Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. "In some cases, it is likely that these individuals should have been discharged earlier, but that the financial incentive to skilled nursing facilities to retain these patients won out," Dharmarajan, who wasn't involved in the study, said by email. "Unnecessarily long stays in a facility can likewise increase complications including falls and infections." At the same time, patients more likely to be discharged on day 20 tended to fit the profile of patients who have had higher rates of hospital use and repeat hospitalizations in other studies, said Dr. Jennifer Goldstein of the Christiana Care Health and Sidney Kimmel Medical College in Philadelphia. "Those characteristics include male sex, African American race, Hispanic ethnicity, low-income demographics and a high burden of disease," Goldstein, who wasn't involved in the study, said by email. One limitation of the analysis is that it focused just on people with fee-for-service Medicare who didn't have other types of insurance, the study authors note. Many Medicare enrollees get supplemental insurance or sign up for coverage through private health plans or Medicaid. Still, the results "raise concerns that patients are forgoing needed medical care because of ability to pay, and/or that skilled nursing facilities are selectively discharging such patients out of concern patients will not be able to afford the copay," said Dr. Ann Sheehy of the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in Madison. "If financial reasons, as opposed to medical readiness, drive skilled nursing facility discharge, this could negatively impact health and safety for the most vulnerable Medicare beneficiaries," Sheehy, who wasn't involved in the study, said by email. SOURCE: http://bit.ly/2EE1ECx JAMA Internal Medicine, online May 28, 2019. Tornadoes swept through western Ohio on Monday night, destroying homes and causing widespread power outages. One person was killed and dozens were injured. The storms were among 53 twisters that forecasters said touched down on Monday across eight states stretching eastward from Idaho and Colorado. Jeffrey Hazel, the mayor of Celina, near Dayton, said 81-year-old Melvin Delhanna died during the tornado as a direct result of a vehicle entering his house. In Mercer County, where Celina is located, emergency management director Mike Robbins said that 12 people were injured in the storm. Mr Hazel said three of those injuries are considered to be serious but none are life-threatening. The National Weather Service (NWS) said on Tuesday morning that roughly five million people throughout the state had been affected by the power outages. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations Storm Prediction Center showed that 14 suspected tornadoes touched down in Indiana, 11 in Colorado and nine in Ohio. Dayton, the fifth-largest city in Ohio with 140,000 residents, was particularly affected. Nearly 60,000 residents were without power after the storm. Homes and apartment complexes were levelled during the storm, devastating residents and leaving authorities scrambling. I dont know that any community that is fully prepared for this type of devastation, Dayton assistant fire chief Nicholas Hosford said on ABCs Good Morning America. The city tweeted that first responders are currently performing search and rescue operations and debris clearing. The NWS says that it will be conducting damage surveys for the next few days. Utilities are expecting restoration to take several days. For now, Dayton city officials have asked residents to conserve water, as power was lost in the citys water plants and pump stations. Montgomery County, where Dayton is located, Miami County, and Greene County were the most affected by the tornadoes, which authorities described as large and dangerous. The National Guard has been deployed in the aftermath. Story continues Tornadoes also touched down in nearby Trotwood, where the mayor told residents that power lines and trees were down. Ohios tornado spree marks the latest in a particularly harsh year for tornadoes in the US, which have caused major damage and several deaths in Alabama, Missouri, Oklahoma, and several other states. Looking for family-friendly events to keep the kids busy this week? From a scavenger hunt to martial arts classes for kids, 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. Westside Personalized Summit From the event description: In 2016, the Nebraska Department of Education awarded Westside Community Schools with an innovation grant dedicated to scaling up District 66's personalized learning initiative district-wide. The goal was to make personalization an operational part of the culture at Westside and to create a model, rich with examples, that others could look to in the development of their own personalized practices. Personalization has since thrived in WCS, and as the culminating event of our recent work around personalized learning, we are excited to host The Westside Personalized Summit on May 29-30. The Westside Personalized Summit is a conference devoted specifically to personalized learning, showcasing practices and examples from K-12 classroom practitioners from within Westside Community Schools and across the country. When: Wednesday, May 29, 8 a.m.-Thursday, May 30, 3:30 p.m. Where: Westside High School, 8701 Pacific St. Price: $75 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Up to 54% Off Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt from ScavengerHunt.com From the ScavengerHunt.com deal description: Participants gear up and launch the ScavengerHunt.com app to start their own adventure, racing against the clock at a time of their choosing. Where: 1701 Farnam St., Downtown Omaha Price: $22 (45 percent discount off regular price) Click here for more details, and to take advantage of this deal Up to 49% Off Children's Martial Arts From the West Omaha Martial Arts deal description: Story continues Variety of martial arts offer opportunities to promote confidence, health, and self defense for children/ Where: 2012 N. 117th Ave., Northwest Omaha Price: $40 (42 percent discount off regular price) Click here for more details, and to score this deal Up to 52% Off at Operation City Quest From the Operation City Quest deal description: Digital family-friendly scavenger hunt game sends teams through city competing to find items, complete challenges with help of remote guide. Where: 215 S. 15th St., Downtown Omaha Price: $19 (52 percent discount off regular price) Click here for more details, and to score this deal Up to 52% Off Admission at 3Quest Challenge From the 3Quest Challenge deal description: Digital scavenger hunt adventure tour sends groups through city to solve puzzles, gather clues, and complete challenges with help of guide. Where: 215 S. 15th St., Downtown Omaha Price: $19 (52 percent discount off regular price) Click here for more details, and to get 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. Top seed Naomi Osaka of Japan overcame a first-set disaster and rallied for an 0-6, 7-6 (4), 6-1 first-round victory over Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova at the French Open on Tuesday. The reigning U.S. Open and Australian Open champion extended her Grand Slam winning streak to 15 matches. "I think this is the most nervous I have ever been in my entire life during a match," Osaka said. "I think you could see that in the first set. I was literally not hitting any balls in the court." Osaka had 13 unforced errors and just four winners in the 22-minute opening set. Schmiedlova was two points away from the upset, leading 6-5 and serving at 30-15 before Osaka fought back to force the tiebreak. She kept the momentum through the rest of the match, finishing with 32 winners and 25 unforced errors over the final two sets. "It's one of those matches where you're not playing well, but you have to find a way to win," Osaka said. "For me, I've just begun learning how to do that." Schmiedlova was playing a top-ranked opponent for the first time in her career. "I think everybody saw that I was really close," she said. "She's No. 1 in the world and an amazing player. I admire her so much. I think I could have won today, but maybe next time." Osaka will face former world No. 1 Victoria Azarenka of Belarus in the second round. Azarenka defeated 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia earlier in the day, 6-4, 7-6 (4). Osaka and Azarenka have met twice before, with Azarenka winning at the Australian Open in 2016 and Osaka avenging the defeat last year in Rome. Defending Roland Garros champ and No. 3 seed Simona Halep of Romania also survived a first-round challenge, beating Australia's Ajla Tomljanovic 6-2, 3-6, 6-1. Halep fill face Poland's Magda Linette, a 3-6, 6-1, 6-2 winner against French wild card Chloe Paquet. Halep is trying to become the first woman to defend a Grand Slam title since Serena Williams won back-to-back Wimbledon crowns in 2015 and 2016. Story continues No. 14 seed Madison Keys, a 2018 semifinalist here, cruised to a 6-1, 6-2 victory over Russia's Evgeniya Rodina. Other seeded players who won Tuesday included No. 11 Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus and No. 16 Qiang Wang of China. Home favorite and No. 24 seed Caroline Garcia defeated Germany's Mona Barthel 6-2, 6-4. --Field Level Media By Alasdair Pal NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India will not invite Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to the swearing-in of his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, two Indian government sources said, suggesting any early warming in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbors is unlikely. Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan have fought three wars since their independence from Britain in 1947, and came close to a fourth in February after a suicide bomb attack by a Pakistan-based militant group killed at least 40 Indian police in the contested Kashmir region. Modi begins his second term as prime minister on Thursday after a convincing election victory which political analysts say was helped by his handling of that tension with Pakistan. The Indian government said in a statement on Monday the leaders of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan - all members, with India, of the little-known Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) - had been invited to the swearing-in. "This is in line with government's focus on its 'Neighborhood First' policy," a government spokesman said. The leaders of Kyrgyzstan and Mauritius have also been invited. But two sources in Indian's foreign ministry said Pakistan will not be on the list, without providing further information. Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi suggested the reason was India's internal politics, after Modi had made "Pakistan bashing" the central theme of his election campaign. "To expect that he will get rid of his narrative and invite the entire opposition to criticize him, it was not possible," Qureshi told Pakistan's Geo TV channel late on Monday. In 2014, when Modi was sworn in for his first term, leaders from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), that includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, were invited. Pakistan's then-prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, attended then, to the anger of some of Modi's Hindu-nationalist allies. The February bombing in the Kashmir region led to the most serious clashes between the countries in years. India launched an air strike on a suspected militant camp on the Pakistani side of the border. Khan said Pakistan's air force responded with strikes, to the alarm of world powers. An Indian aircraft was shot down and Pakistani forces captured the pilot but sent him home within days. Modi played up national security in his campaign for a seven-phase general election over April and May, which he won with an increased majority. Khan called Modi on Sunday to congratulate him shortly after results were announced. Modi could meet Khan at a Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan next month, that both leaders may attend. (Reporting by Alasdair Pal; Additional reporting by Syed Hassan Raza in KARACHI; Editing by Hugh Lawson, Robert Birsel) * PM has promised to resign but has yet to quit * Opponents say they will hold majority in parliament * Santos dismisses analyst fears of LNG project delays SYDNEY/BRISBANE, May 28 (Reuters) - Papua New Guinea's lawmakers gathered on Tuesday for a crucial sitting of parliament, with opponents vowing to topple the government of Prime Minister Peter O'Neill, who clings on despite promising to resign three days ago. Additional police patrolled the capital of Port Moresby ahead of the session at which, O'Neill's opponents say, they will command a majority they plan to demonstrate with a vote to change the speaker of the house. "(This) is enough for us to move into government," deputy opposition leader Timothy Masiu said by text message from the Laguna Hotel, where the opposition has been based for weeks, as he prepared to leave for parliament. It was not immediately clear how that would proceed, or if the opposition would then be able to carry out its plans for a no-confidence motion, a procedure O'Neill has challenged in court. O'Neill is resisting calls to formally quit before the challenge is heard on Friday. His spokesman said he expected a rowdy question-time "but not much else" on Tuesday. Powes Parkop, a lawmaker who has stayed loyal to the government, said he was confident the speaker would not change. Instability is not unusual in the South Pacific archipelago and it has not held back mining and energy investment in the resource-rich nation. But protests over the benefits failing to reach poverty-stricken rural areas have dogged the government, sapping support from the ruling coalition. O'Neill himself resisted calls to resign for weeks but said on Sunday he would quit in favor of Sir Julius Chan, a two-time former national leader. GAS GO-AHEAD Analysts say the political turbulence will delay resource projects on the drawing board, putting a cloud over plans, with oil majors exposed to PNG, Total SA and ExxonMobil Corp, watching closely. Story continues The uncertainty knocked shares in Oil Search Ltd, a partner of the majors in large liquefied natural gas developments there, on Monday. However the head of another development partner, Santos Ltd dismissed analysts' concerns that final investment decisions on LNG expansion could be pushed out beyond their 2020 targets. "There's no indication that the PNG government want to delay anything," Kevin Gallagher, the chief executive of Santos, told reporters at an energy industry conference in Brisbane. "I'm confident that whoever forms the government or whoever leads the PNG government will continue to support development like we've seen for 10 years-plus now in PNG - very stable government, very development-focused government." He declined to predict what will happen with the leadership but said even the opposition was focused on gas development. "They are very development and growth-focused. So I wouldn't expect any delay. There's no indications anybody wants to slow anything down. I think on the contrary they are all very positive on expansion and development." He added that he thought the PNG LNG partners, led by ExxonMobil, would be able to stick to a previously flagged schedule to enter preliminary engineering planning for the expansion project within the next few months. (Reporting by Tom Westbrook in SYDNEY and Sonali Paul in BRISBANE; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) One of Kenyas most popular actresses, Nyce Wanjeri, has ruled out ever doing a kissing scene. While kissing scenes are commonplace in the 21st century, the former Auntie Boss actress is one of several thespians who are flat-out against locking lips on screen. Apparently, Nyce would feel guilty all her life if she ever exchanged saliva with a costar. Kwanza hiyo ya kissing I cant, I am sorry. I am an actress but there are some things I cant do. I will feel guilty all my life, said Wanjeri in an interview with KM Network She continued, This is what I say, in every character you are given an opportunity to become someone else but there is still you. Nanawa (Paraguay) (AFP) - Like 70,000 people living close to the broken banks of the Paraguay River, where the water level has risen seven meters (23 feet) in some places, Graciela Acosta has had to pack up her belongings and evacuate. Piled up on a canoe are the 39-year-old housewife's bed, wardrobe, bedside table and her dog Pirulin. Acosta is getting ready to cross the border into Argentina with her daughter to seek refuge in a reception center in the neighboring town of Clorinda. "I've had enough! It's the third time that I've had to move everything because of the floods," said Acosta. "I pray to God that it ends. Every time. it costs a lot of money." However, there's no chance of Acosta leaving her home in Nanawa, a town of just 6,000 people that borders Argentina to the west and faces the capital Asuncion to the east across the Paraguay River, for good. "As soon as the water level drops, I'll go home," she said. - 'Greater impact' - In Nanawa, only around 500 people were able to avoid evacuation, due to living in homes with upper floors above the flood levels. They're used to this as the Paraguay River, one of the largest in the Americas, breaks its banks and causes havoc in the poorest Nanawa neighborhoods built on the flood plain. The river's brown waters rise almost to the height of street signs: in some areas, there is up to one or two meters of water covering roads. Paraguayans have seen worse, though, back in 1983, according to the assistant director of the country's meteorology and hydrology service, Nelson Perez. "It's not the Paraguay River's worst flood, but the impact is greater because more people live close to the river," said Perez. "These are the worst floods I've seen," said Ruben Acosta, 55, who peddles his moving services by canoe. It's a far cry from January and February, when the river's level was so low that navigating it became difficult. Story continues "It rained a lot in March, three times more than usual, and it also rained a lot in April and May," said Perez, who pointed to deforestation as an added problem. - 'It's like being in Venice' - Wading through water up to his chest, Rigoberto Nunez leaves a cemetery carrying a chandelier, a vase, some crucifixes and family portraits, all plucked from the family vault. "I prefer to take them away to be safe," says the 47-year-old traveling salesman. The town is without electricity or police and inhabitants are afraid of looters. Nunez is heading to a reception center provided by Argentine authorities in a Clorinda slum where he's already stashed his furniture. Enrique Cardozo's workshop has already been ravaged by the floods. "I've lost my sofa, the cupboard, I had nowhere to put them," said the 51-year-old father of four. The family has moved into the first floor of their house, which is just 15 meters from the river. "It rained non-stop for a week. One day, the water rose one meter. It was impressive, we couldn't save everything," said Cardozo. "There's nowhere you can put your feet on the ground. It's like being in Venice, we move about by Gondola!" On the other side of the river, Asuncion has not been spared as several areas have also had to be evacuated. In the Sajonia residential zone, inhabitants and shopkeepers have seen their sidewalks lined with sandbags, to keep back the floodwaters. According to Perez, though, the problems -- and waters -- will soon subside. The water level rose only slightly on Monday, and will continue to do so for a few more days before it drains away during the first half of June, he said. After "Jinn" and "Al Rawabi School for Girls," the web streaming giant has ordered its third and most ambitious original production from the Middle East. Variety reports that Egyptian filmmaker Amr Salama will serve as director and showrunner on this new original series, called "Paranormal." "Paranormal," a series based on the hit Arabic horror books by the Egyptian author, Ahmed Khaled Towfik, who died in 2018, will be produced by Amr Salama ("Sheikh Jackson") and Mohamed Hefzy, the new president of the Cairo Film Festival and one of the Middle East's most widely recognized producers. Set in the 1960s, "Paranormal" follows the adventures of Dr. Refaat Ismail, a hematologist who finds himself facing various supernatural events. "We are excited to continue our investment in Middle Eastern productions by adapting the highly acclaimed Paranormal' novels into a thrilling new series," Kelly Luegenbiehl, Netflix's VP of international originals, said in a statement. "We're also pleased to collaborate with prominent producer Mohamed Hefzy and director Amr Salama, whose creative vision we look forward to bringing to our global audience." The show will be the first Egyptian drama from Netflix, with filming scheduled to start in the country soon. Im going to tell you a story, but before I do, I want to be very clear. Presidents should not pardon Americans guilty of war crimes. I agree with every word of the tweet below, from retired general Martin Dempsey: Absent evidence of innocence or injustice the wholesale pardon of US servicemembers accused of war crimes signals our troops and allies that we dont take the Law of Armed Conflict seriously. Bad message. Bad precedent. Abdication of moral responsibility. Risk to us. #Leadership GEN(R) Marty Dempsey (@Martin_Dempsey) May 21, 2019 Note the key caveat in his condemnation of pardons. Absent evidence of innocence or injustice, theyre improper. But what if there is evidence of injustice? What if there is copious evidence of innocence? Then a pardon isnt just proper, it may well be indispensable to achieving justice. Im speaking of four Blackwater contractors Paul Slough, Dustin Heard, Evan Liberty, and Nicholas Slatten the men of a team called Raven 23. They were tasked with defending American diplomats at the height of the Iraq War. And Im speaking of one of the most notorious incidents in all of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the alleged massacre in Nisour Square on September 16, 2007. I deployed to Diyala Province in Iraq two months after the incident, and already a certain narrative had been established. American mercenaries panicked in a crowded traffic circle and unloaded their weapons into innocent civilians without provocation. The Iraqi government wanted them tried for murder. The American government had launched an investigation, and there seemed to be only one just outcome prison for the men who killed the innocent. It wasnt until later, much later, that I began to seriously question the narrative. I read that the charges against the men were initially dismissed. An appeals court reversed, and they were tried and convicted. An appeals court threw out their sentences and one of their convictions. Then there was another trial of a single contractor, Slatten, that ended in a mistrial. He was tried again, for a third time, and convicted of murder. Why was this all so hard? Story continues The governments theory of the case is simple. Shortly after a car bomb attack in Baghdad, the men of Raven 23 (a four-vehicle, 19-man Blackwater convoy) traveled to Nisour Square and halted traffic. At that moment, Slatten a man who allegedly hated Iraqis decided to murder an innocent civilian in cold blood. He shot the driver of a white Kia sedan. Driverless, the car drifted forward toward the convoy. Iraqi police officers moved to the car and tried to signal to the convoy not to fire, but as the car continued to drift, multiple members of the convoy panicked and began unloading their weapons into the Kia and then into the square. Some allegedly fired blindly. Others allegedly precisely targeted obviously innocent Iraqis for death. Somehow, in the melee, one of Blackwater vehicles was disabled perhaps by their own weapons, so carelessly did they fire. Its a chilling portrait of veteran former soldiers (each of the contractors previously served in the military) losing their cool under stress and committing, in essence, mass murder. Its an unlikely scenario. Why the collective panic? Why the apparent bloodlust? But students of war will recognize the phenomenon. There are times when troops will go on killing sprees. Remember My Lai? In fact, there are those who called the Nisour Square incident the My Lai massacre of Iraq. Its a compelling case, but it has problems serious problems. Lets begin with the first and most obvious. No one denies that the first shots were fired at a white Kia sedan, but the circumstances of that shooting matter greatly. According to the defense, Slatten did not fire at the Kia in cold blood. Instead, a different defendant, Paul Slough, repeatedly confessed to shooting the Kia from his turret. Iraqi witnesses corroborated his account. And why did he shoot? Because the Kia punched forward toward the convoy despite repeated warnings to stop. Moreover, the vehicle matched the description of a suspected car bomb. It was not a car bomb, but the first shots werent an act of premeditated murder but instead a tragic but common mistake in the Iraq conflict the product of insurgent tactics and the terrible confusion of war. In fact, during my deployment a young soldier in our unit faced exactly the same scenario. Except instead of a white Kia, the vehicle was a white Bongo truck. The truck matched the description of a truck on our BOLO (be on the lookout) list, and it sped toward one of our combat outposts despite repeated warnings to stop. One of our soldiers fired. He killed an innocent farmer with one shot. The truck turned over and killed every single sheep the farmer owned. In one tragic moment, a family was rendered fatherless and destitute. It was horrible. The soldier was devastated. But we never even thought of prosecuting him. He followed the rules of engagement. Al-Qaeda placed him in that terrible position. Al-Qaeda used civilian vehicles to attack American troops, and al-Qaeda tried to hide in the civilian population. If we were going to prosecute that soldier, wed have to prosecute hundreds of Americans who made similar life-and-death choices under similar amounts of duress. And so, if Raven 23s account was correct, none of its team members violated the law when they fired on the white Kia. It was just another dreadful incident in a dreadful war an incident ultimately caused by our enemys lawless tactics. But that only accounts for the Kia. What about the volley of fire that followed? According to Raven 23, the convoy then began to take incoming fire. In fact, in their statements to State Department investigators following the shooting, the defendants described the perceived threat with precision. For example, Slough told investigators that [a] white vehicle approached the team at a high rate of speed and would not stop despite his hand signals and throwing a water bottle. Other civilians tried to wave the vehicle down, but it still would not stop. [Slough] engaged and hit the driver. An Iraqi Policeman, wearing [a] blue button down shirt and black pants, began to push the vehicle towards [the] team. [Slough] engaged [the] vehicle a second time and [the] Iraqi Policeman ran away. [Slough] then witnessed muzzle flashes from a shack, returned fire, and hit the individual. Slatten indicated that the convoy took small-arms fire from individuals along a tree line. He claimed to respond with two rounds, hitting one individual. Heard said he saw muzzle flashes and engaged an individual with small-arms fire and a grenade from his M203. Liberty said that the convoy began to receive fire from behind and that Iraqi police officers engaged the Americans. (The New York Times notes that witnesses said Iraqi soldiers opened fire from a watchtower.) There was also a contemporaneous report from the convoy indicating that it was taking fire and critically that one of its vehicles was disabled. It suffered from obvious external damage, and it simply strains credulity to believe that trained soldiers would be so panicked that they disabled their own vehicle with their own weapons. Moreover, the first American to arrive at the scene, Captain Peter Decareau, not only reported that Iraqis corroborated the teams account of the Kia driving toward the convoy, he also took pictures of bullet casings located by an area where the team reported taking fire. This evidence was withheld from the defense until the 2014 trial, an error the prosecution blamed on a series of innocent oversights. The defense does not, however, argue that every member of the team behaved responsibly. Team member Jeremy Ridgeway pled guilty to firing unjustified shots into the white Kia and into a white Chevrolet Celebrity. But there is an immense difference between prosecuting a panicked volley of fire following a cold-blooded murder and prosecuting contractors for individual targeting decisions made in the midst of a live firefight. The former represents proper accountability for a war crime. The latter places men under fire in an impossible position, especially when insurgents dress like civilians and sometimes even pose as members of the Iraqi police. While the events of September 16, 2007, are still shrouded by the fog of war, what happened next is crystal clear. The Iraqi police not the FBI took immediate charge of the investigation. The defense believes that the Iraqi police officer in command of the investigation may have insurgent ties, but I have not been able to verify that claim. At any rate, after Iraqi police involvement, witness accounts coalesced into a unified tale of a terrible massacre. The FBI didnt arrive until weeks later. There was no classic crime-scene investigation. The square had been swept clean by the time American professionals were able to investigate. There were no autopsies of the victims and no opportunity to examine their fatal wounds. Yet this was not the end of the irregularities, not by a long shot. On December 31, 2009, United States District Court Judge Ricardo Urbina dismissed the governments initial case against Slough, Heard, Liberty, and Slatten citing the governments comprehensive, unconstitutional use of compelled statements against the defendants. The Iraqi government was outraged. Our system of independent courts and constitutional protections was alien to Iraq, and many Iraqis presumed that the dismissal was ordered from on high. There is extensive record of internal State Department correspondence about Iraqi demands that the Department of Justice appeal the dismissal. The DOJ did appeal, and the D.C. Circuit reversed; the government brought a new case presumably free of the unconstitutional taint of its first effort, and in 2014 it secured a conviction Slough, Heard, and Liberty were found guilty of voluntary manslaughter, attempted manslaughter, and using a firearm in relation to a crime of violence with the steep sentence due to federal weapons charges. Essentially the jury found the men guilty of a crime for using the precise weapons they were required to carry as part of their diplomatic protective mission. Slatten was found guilty of first-degree murder for allegedly shooting the driver of the white Kia in cold blood, but the trial court did not permit the jury to hear evidence that another person, Slough, had repeatedly confessed to firing the fatal shots. So while the prosecution was able to introduce evidence that Slatten supposedly hated Iraqis and wanted payback for 9/11, the defense was not able to introduce evidence that Slough said he fired first. In 2017, the D.C. Circuit weighed in again. It reversed Slattens conviction and remanded his case for a new trial, holding that the jury should have heard Sloughs admission that he fired the first shots. The court also found that the 30-year sentences against Slough, Heard, and Liberty were grossly disproportionate to their culpability for using government-issued weapons in a war zone and therefore violated the Eighth Amendments prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment. So the case against Slatten went back down again to the trial court, and in the summer of 2018, the DOJ tried again to convict Slatten. The jury could not reach a verdict. So, in October, the government tried Slatten for a third time. In December a federal jury found him guilty. Make no mistake, this case is complicated. Between three trials, multiple court decisions, and hundreds of pages of briefs, examining the facts is like peeling an onion of complexity and confusion. But there are a few bottom-line conclusions that stand out. Slatten sits in prison for a shooting that another American has admitted to, repeatedly. He sits in prison for a shot that even Iraqi witnesses say he didnt take. The best evidence that he did take the fatal shot came not from eyewitnesses but from people who claim they heard Slatten shoot first. Given the weight of the evidence Ive reviewed, the jurys verdict is mystifying. But hovering over all the proceedings is this terrible fact: All four Americans face convictions after an Iraqi-led investigation. The Iraqis collected the great bulk of the evidence. They interviewed witnesses and coordinated their stories. Lawyers for Slatten claim the FBI couldnt even independently identify the witnesses or the victims. These facts alone should render the prosecution suspect. While there were good and brave Iraqi police officers, there is simply no comparison between Iraqi and American police techniques especially in the midst of a shooting war. Finally, each of the Raven 23 defendants has suffered repeated violations of his constitutional rights. From the initial misuse of compelled statements to the imposition of cruel and unusual punishments to the unfair trial that deprived Slatten of his best defenses, the government has time and again overstepped its legal bounds. There is little question that a pardon would be diplomatically difficult. There is an ironclad belief in much of Iraq that Blackwater contractors committed a massacre. But no American should sit in prison to appease an ally. It may well be politically problematic as well. Americans have long cast aspersions on the mercenaries who fought alongside regular troops in Iraq, and many have also presumed that the Iraqi narrative of the Nisour Square massacre is true and that it represents one of the most shameful incidents of the Iraq War. Moreover, the fact that the Raven 23 defendants have been lumped together in pardon considerations with a number of different men who face punishment for very different incidents has done them no favors. There is now a perception that President Trump is on the verge of a series of war-crimes pardons, and Nisour Square represents yet another of those crimes. But each case is different. Pardons may be appropriate for some others or perhaps no others. They should be examined on their own merits. But here, in this case, there is strong evidence of a prosecution gone awry. Its time for the president to step in to correct a miscarriage of justice. Its time to pardon the men of Raven 23. More from National Review Washington (AFP) - Vice President Mike Pence on Tuesday waded into the growing debate in the United States about the hot-button issue of abortion, urging the Supreme Court to bar "selective" abortions based on sex, race or potential disability of the fetus. The comments by Pence, a devout Christian who signed anti-abortion bills while serving as governor of Indiana, coincide with moves by Republican-led legislatures in several states to restrict access to the procedure. Opponents of abortion are seeking to eventually challenge the 1973 US Supreme Court ruling in the case of Roe vs Wade, which made abortion legal nationwide. In the latest moves, the only abortion clinic in Missouri may be forced to close and the legislature in Louisiana inched closer to passing a bill that would ban abortion after six weeks of pregnancy. Early on Tuesday, the Supreme Court upheld part of an Indiana law signed during Pence's tenure as governor that requires the remains of aborted fetuses to be cremated or buried, but sidestepped a separate case on the "selective" abortions clause. A lower court had struck that segment of the law down, and the Supreme Court said it would not weigh in until other appellate courts do so. Pence's office welcomed the ruling on the disposal of remains of aborted fetuses and said it remained "hopeful that at a later date the Supreme Court will review one of numerous state laws across the US that bar abortion based on sex, race, or disability." "Countries across the globe prohibit selective abortion -- and the United States should do the same," said the statement from Pence's press secretary Alyssa Farah. The two Indiana cases were being closely watched as an indicator of how the top court -- which now has a conservative majority -- may eventually decide on the divisive issue, should it choose to accept a case. The southern state of Alabama passed a bill this month that amounts to a near-total ban on ending a pregnancy, even in cases of rape and incest. Story continues Performing an abortion would be a crime that could land doctors in prison for 10 to 99 years. Abortions would only be legal if the life of the mother is in danger or the fetus has a fatal condition. - 'Public health crisis' - Since taking office, President Donald Trump has appointed two conservative justices -- Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh -- and liberal members of the court are now outnumbered five to four. Conservative-leaning Chief Justice John Roberts is seen as the potential swing vote if the constitutionality of abortion eventually comes before the court. In Missouri, Planned Parenthood warned Tuesday that the only abortion clinic in the midwestern state risks being shut down on Friday if the state health department does not renew its license. "This is a real public health crisis," said Leana Wen, the president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, which provides abortions and reproductive health care. "Missouri would be the first state in the country to go dark -- without a health center that provides safe, legal abortion care," said Wen, who herself is a doctor. "More than a million women of reproductive age in Missouri will no longer have access to a health center in the state they live in that provides abortion care." In Louisiana, legislation is moving forward that would ban abortion once a fetal heartbeat has been detected, which can be as early as six weeks. Several other states have passed similar laws including Georgia. The state's Democratic governor has indicated that he may sign it if it reaches his desk. In another development, Netflix said it would reconsider its investment in Georgia should a controversial abortion law in the southern state, known as the Hollywood of the South, go into effect. "We have many women working on productions in Georgia, whose rights, along with millions of others, will be severely restricted by this law," Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos said in a statement to Variety. "Given the legislation has not yet been implemented, we'll continue to film there -- while also supporting partners and artists who choose not to," Sarandos said. "Should it ever come into effect, we'd rethink our entire investment in Georgia." Following adoption of the law in Georgia, where a number of blockbusters, including "Avengers: Infinity War" and "Black Panther," as well as TV series are shot, there have been mounting calls for Hollywood to snub the state. Such a move would lead to major economic losses for Georgia, which last year reported some 92,000 jobs and an economic impact of more than $9 billion from film and TV production. Versailles (France) (AFP) - Nearly 700 people in period costume paraded through the sumptuous apartments of France's Louis XIV at his palace in Versailles just outside Paris late Monday for the fifth edition of the "Fetes Galantes". The annual fancy dress ball aims to re-create the baroque splendour of the Sun King's dazzling court feasts held to show off the wealth and power of France's longest-reigning monarch, who was born in 1638, ascended to the throne at the age of four and remained king until his death in 1715. "The Duke and Duchess of La Malmaison... welcome to Versailles!" two masters of ceremony call out at the foot of the grand staircase as guests arrive in lavish costumes, rented for the night at a price of several hundred euros (dollars) or meticulously sewn by hand. The theme of this year's ball is "Marie-Antoinette and fashion". Daniel, in his 50s, said he spent more than 500 hours making his cardinal's outfit from red silk with a scarlet train several metres in length. He and his husband, Bruno, who is dressed as a prince, are regulars of the event and also attend the annual carnival in Venice every year. For tickets costing several hundred euros, depending on category, guests can wander through the private apartments of the chateau, which is a World Heritage site and one of France's biggest tourist attractions -- from the Hercules Salon, where a specialist dance company gives a demonstration of baroque era dance, to the world-famous Hall of Mirrors. "It's the only occasion in the year where you can come to Versailles in costume," says Laurent Brunner, head of the palace's Royal Opera house, where more than 600 of the costumed guests were photographed for the first time this year. In 2020, the Palace of Versailles will celebrate the 250th anniversary of both the Royal Opera, and the wedding of Marie-Antoinette and the future King Louis XVI. Paris (AFP) - The illegal slaughter of African elephants to feed Asia's demand for ivory has decreased by more than half in eight years, but the majestic mammals are still threatened with extinction, researchers warned Tuesday. In 2011, poachers killed some 40,000 tuskers -- about ten percent of the continent's population, according to figures from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), based in Geneva. Last year the kill rate was about four percent, or 15,000 animals, according to new research published in Nature Communications. "We are seeing a downturn in poaching, but it is still above what we think is sustainable," co-author Colin Beale, a conservation biologist at the University of York, told AFP. On current trends, the African elephant is in danger of being "virtually wiped out", surviving only in small, heavily protected pockets, he said. A century ago up to 12 million of the world's heaviest land animal roamed the continent. Today, they number about 500,000, if forest elephants -- a sub-species -- are included. Despite a 1990 ban on international trade in ivory, demand in Southeast Asia and especially China has overwhelmed the capacity of local and global authorities to curb the carnage. "Currently, poaching is worst in west and central Africa," said Beale. "I worry most for the future of forest elephants." Smaller, more solitary than their cousins on the savannah, forest tuskers in the Congo Basin are estimated to have declined by 65 percent over the last 15 years alone. The countries in which poachers have been brought most to heel are Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. Indeed, Botswana's elephant population has increased nearly ten-fold since 1970, according to co-author Julian Blanc, a researcher in the Wildlife Management Unit of the UN Environment Programme in Nairobi. - Habitat loss - "Due to good management, the country was largely unaffected by poaching in the 1980s, as well as the current episode that began in the mid-2000s," he told AFP. Story continues But the researchers emphasised that law enforcement alone cannot solve the problem. "We need to reduce the demand in Asia and improve the livelihoods of people who are living with elephants in Africa," said Beale. To better understand the complex link between ivory and poaching, the researchers looked at data from a CITES programme that records the sighting of elephant carcasses by park rangers across 53 protected sites in Africa. Changes in the level of illegal killing tracked closely to fluctuating prices in Asia for ivory. The prevalence of poaching also matched key indicators of corruption and poverty, which varied sharply across regions. Ultimately, however, the biggest threat to Loxodonta africana may not be human greed but our ever-expanding footprint. "Habitat destruction and fragmentation caused by humans may be the more serious threat to elephant survival in the long term," said Blanc. West Africa -- which today has, by far, the smallest elephant population -- is also the region in which the most habitat has been lost to agriculture and urbanisation, he pointed out. It is unclear whether a 2017 ban on the sale of ivory in China has dampened demand or simply shifted the once-legal trade underground, the researchers said. "We have no good evidence yet that the ban and associated demand reduction campaigns are working," said Beale. "So I have concerns that the current decline may be temporary." An investigation by the wildlife trade monitoring network TRAFFIC found that even though legally licensed stores it had visited in 2017 no longer sold ivory the following year, the total amount of illegal ivory pieces found had actually increased. L. africana is listed as "vulnerable" on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of endangered species. By Philip Pullella VATICAN CITY, May 28 (Reuters) - Pope Francis said he was willing to tell U.S. President Donald Trump in person that it is wrong to build border walls and appeared to warn him not to resume a policy of separating families. In a wide-ranging television interview with Mexico's Televisa aired on Tuesday, the pope also shrugged off criticism from ultra-conservative Roman Catholics who call him a heretic. Francis, who has clashed with Trump before on migration issues, discussed the situation at the U.S.-Mexican border with veteran Vatican reporter Valentina Alazraki, who is Mexican. "I don't know what's happening with this new culture of defending territories by building walls. We already knew one, that (one) in Berlin, which brought so many headaches and so much suffering," he said. "Separating children from their parents goes against natural law, and those Christians ... you can't do it. It is cruel. It is among the greatest of cruelties. And to defend what? Territory, or the economy of a country or who knows what," he said, adding that such policies were "very sad." Asked if he would tell Trump the same thing to his face if the president were sitting opposite him instead of the reporter, Francis said: "The same. The same because I say it publicly ... I have even said that those who build walls end up being prisoners of the walls they build." Trump, who met the pope at the Vatican in 2017, has said the wall is needed to address a crisis of drugs and crime flowing across the border into the United States and has clashed with the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives and some judges on how to fund it. Last year, Pope Francis criticized the Trump administration policy of separating children from parents who had illegally crossed the U.S.-Mexico border, a policy Trump later reversed after a widespread outcry. Last month, Trump denied media reports that his administration was considering reinstating the policy. Story continues No further meeting between Trump and the pope is planned. Francis was also asked about a group of ultra-conservatives who earlier this month began a signature campaign urging bishops to denounce him as a heretic over a range of topics from communion for the divorced to religious diversity. Francis said he did not feel hurt and took it "with a sense of humor," adding, "I pray for them because they are wrong, and, poor people, some of them are being manipulated.." (Reporting by Philip Pullella Editing by Mark Heinrich) Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Could China Everbright International Limited (HKG:257) be an attractive dividend share to own for the long haul? Investors are often drawn to strong companies with the idea of reinvesting the dividends. Unfortunately, it's common for investors to be enticed in by the seemingly attractive yield, and lose money when the company has to cut its dividend payments. In this case, China Everbright International likely looks attractive to investors, given its 3.3% dividend yield and a payment history of over ten years. It would not be a surprise to discover that many investors buy it for the dividends. Some simple analysis can reduce the risk of holding China Everbright International for its dividend, and we'll focus on the most important aspects below. Explore this interactive chart for our latest analysis on China Everbright International! SEHK:257 Historical Dividend Yield, May 28th 2019 Payout ratios Companies (usually) pay dividends out of their earnings. If a company is paying more than it earns, the dividend might have to be cut. Comparing dividend payments to a company's net profit after tax is a simple way of reality-checking whether a dividend is sustainable. Looking at the data, we can see that 28% of China Everbright International's profits were paid out as dividends in the last 12 months. This is medium payout level that leaves enough capital in the business to fund opportunities that might arise, while also rewarding shareholders. One of the risks is that management reinvests the retained capital poorly instead of paying a higher dividend. Another important check we do is to see if the free cash flow generated is sufficient to pay the dividend. Unfortunately, while China Everbright International pays a dividend, it also reported negative free cash flow last year. While there may be a good reason for this, it's not ideal from a dividend perspective. It's positive to see that China Everbright International's dividend is covered by both profits and cash flow, since this is generally a sign that the dividend is sustainable, and a lower payout ratio usually suggests a greater margin of safety before the dividend gets cut. Story continues Is China Everbright International's Balance Sheet Risky? As China Everbright International has a meaningful amount of debt, we need to check its balance sheet to see if the company might have debt risks. A quick way to check a company's financial situation uses these two ratios: net debt divided by EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation), and net interest cover. Net debt to EBITDA measures a company's total debt load relative to its earnings (lower = less debt), while net interest cover measures the company's ability to pay the interest on its debt (higher = greater ability to pay interest costs). With net debt of 2.72 times its EBITDA, China Everbright International's debt burden is within a normal range for most listed companies. We calculated its interest cover by measuring its earnings before interest and tax (EBIT), and dividing this by the company's net interest expense. China Everbright International has EBIT of 6.42 times its interest expense, which we think is adequate. We update our data on China Everbright International every 24 hours, so you can always get our latest analysis of its financial health, here. Dividend Volatility Before buying a stock for its income, we want to see if the dividends have been stable in the past, and if the company has a track record of maintaining its dividend. China Everbright International has been paying dividends for a long time, but for the purpose of this analysis, we only examine the past 10 years of payments. During this period the dividend has been stable, which could imply the business could have relatively consistent earnings power. During the past ten-year period, the first annual payment was HK$0.016 in 2009, compared to HK$0.24 last year. This works out to be a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 31% a year over that time. Dividends have been growing pretty quickly, and even more impressively, they haven't experienced any notable falls during this period. Dividend Growth Potential Dividend payments have been consistent over the past few years, but we should always check if earnings per share (EPS) are growing, as this will help maintain the purchasing power of the dividend. It's good to see China Everbright International has been growing its earnings per share at 21% a year over the past 5 years. Earnings per share have rocketed in recent times, and we like that the company is retaining more than half of its earnings to reinvest. However, always remember that very few companies can grow at double digit rates forever. We'd also point out that China Everbright International issued a meaningful number of new shares in the past year. Regularly issuing new shares can be detrimental - it's hard to grow dividends per share when new shares are regularly being created. Conclusion To summarise, shareholders should always check that China Everbright International's dividends are affordable, that its dividend payments are relatively stable, and that it has decent prospects for growing its earnings and dividend. First, we like China Everbright International's low dividend payout ratio, although we're a bit concerned that it paid out a substantially higher percentage of its free cash flow. Next, growing earnings per share and steady dividend payments is a great combination. Overall we think China Everbright International is an interesting dividend stock, although it could be better. Earnings growth generally bodes well for the future value of company dividend payments. See if the 18 China Everbright International analysts we track are forecasting continued growth with our free report on analyst estimates for the company. Looking for more high-yielding dividend ideas? Try our curated list of dividend stocks with a yield above 3%. 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. Spencer Matthews watches the racing as he attends Derby Day during the Investec Derby Festival at Epsom Racecourse. (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images) Made in Chelsea cast member Spencer Matthews got a nasty shock when visiting a Marylebone jeweller today, as a moped gang burst into the shop. The reality star was visiting The Hour House in London to pick up a vintage watch when thieves entered the store. In a series of videos uploaded to his Instagram story, the 30-year-old said he had to hide in the buildings vault while the shop was smashed to pieces. Three men have been arrested. Read more: Matthews apologises for disastrous GMB debut Matthews added: I was picking up a vintage piece I've been waiting on for ages when they drove a scooter through the glass and started battering the shop with huge hammers wearing helmets. We were in the back of the shop so we sprinted downstairs and hid in the vault until the noise passed. He said that, when the guests returned, it was only his watch that had not been stolen. Spencer Matthews was lucky to leave with his luxury watch after thieves ransacked The Hour House in London. (Credit: Instagram/Spencer Matthews) The socialite said the shop was just battered when the customers emerged from the vault, but said his watch had miraculously survived. He added: Lo and behold, on the floor amongst all the rubble, the glass and stuff, was one watch in the entire shop and it's mine. "Now if that's not luck I don't know what is." Read more: Made in Chelsea star sorry over rape joke Witnesses told BBC News they had seen a group of men on mopeds and at least one had a machete. Armed police attended the scene, but no arrests were made. Scotland Yard also said a man in his thirties had been treated for eye injuries as a result of smashed glass. Spencer Matthews shared photos of the jeweller's shop after thieves raided it while he hid in the vault. (Credit: Instagram/Spencer Matthews) Matthews is the Eton-educated third son of landowner David Matthews. He rose to fame as part of the inaugural cast of reality series Made in Chelsea, appearing in the first 10 seasons between 2011 and 2015, as well as winning The Jump. He has been married to model Vogue Williams since June 2018. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo UK AptarGroup, Inc. ATR remains well poised to gain from its business-transformation plan, innovative product rollouts and acquisitions. The companys shares have gained 20.8% year to date, outperforming the industrys growth of 15.6%. The company has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) and a VGM Score of B. Here V stands for Value, G for Growth and M for Momentum. Our research shows that stocks with a VGM Score of A or B combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2, offer the best investment opportunities for investors. Let's delve deeper into the factors that make AptarGroup stock a compelling investment option at the moment. Strong Q1 Results AptarGroups first-quarter 2019 adjusted earnings per share were $1.07, improving 16% from the prior year. The bottom-line figure also outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Total revenues improved 6% year over year to $744.5 million in the quarter as well as beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate. AptarGroup achieved year-over-year solid core sales growth across all segments during the January-March period. Additionally, benefits from business transformation, business mix and lower resin cost aided its profit margin. Positive Earnings Surprise History AptarGroup outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate over the trailing four quarters, the average positive earnings surprise being 8.27%. Business-Transformation Plan: A Key Growth Driver In late 2017, AptarGroup began a business-transformation plan to drive its top line, boost operational excellence, enhance approach to innovation and improve organizational effectiveness. The company is on track with its business transformation which primarily focuses on the Beauty + Home segment. The company expects the business-transformation plan to yield incremental EBITDA of approximately $80 million by the end of 2020. Innovation Provides a Competitive Edge AptarGroup is poised to gain from the latest innovative product launches. In the Pharma segment, the Bidose Nasal Spray Device was recently approved by the U.S. FDA for breakthrough therapy in the field of depression. This vital system is a prime less, intuitive and easy to use device with 360-degree functionality and precise spray characteristic delivering two shots of medicine within the single device. This is the first FDA approval and U.S. launch of a prescription drug using AptarGroups patented Bidose Nasal Spray delivery system. In the Beauty + Home segment, the company has launched a Skin Care Dispensing Pen in China. It features a magnetic applicator which delivers active ingredients to each spot with three times the absorption rate than application with finger. In the Food + Beverage segment, the company has launched a flip-lid closure with SimpliSqueeze Valve technology and a built-in tamper evident pull ring fitment for sauces and condiments. Acquisitions to Grow Business AptarGroup remains committed to business expansion through acquisitions to broaden the scope of technologies, geographic presence and product offerings. In sync with this, the company acquired CSP Technologies, a leader in active packaging technology based on proprietary material science expertise. Last May, AptarGroup acquired 100% of the common stock of Reboul, a French manufacturer specializing in stamping, decorating and assembling metal and plastic packaging for the cosmetics and luxury markets. Moreover, the company has acquired several companies, including Stelmi, Mega Airless, and made a minority investment in Kali Care, Inc., over the past few years. Last year, it also expanded its partnership with Propeller Health and made a strategic equity investment in the company. These acquisitions will propel growth. Return on Assets (ROA): AptarGroup currently has a ROA of 7.9%, while the industry's ROA is 6.1%. An above-average ROA denotes that the company is generating earnings by effectively managing assets. Growth Projections: Estimates for AptarGroup have been revised upward over the past 30 days, reflecting brokers confidence in the stock. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for current-year earnings per share is pegged at $4.35, representing a year-over-year increase of 8.7%. For 2020, the consensus estimate for earnings per share is pegged at $4.81 calling for a year-over-year increase of 10.54%. The stock also has a long-term expected earnings per share growth rate of roughly 10.3%. Story continues AptarGroup, Inc. Price and Consensus AptarGroup, Inc. Price and Consensus AptarGroup, Inc. price-consensus-chart | AptarGroup, Inc. Quote Other Stocks to Consider Some other top-ranked stocks in the Industrial Products sector are DMC Global Inc. BOOM, Lawson Products, Inc. LAWS and Harsco Corporation HSC, each sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), at present. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. DMC Global has an estimated earnings growth rate of 83.5% for the ongoing year. The companys shares have soared 53.6%, in the past year. Lawson Products has an expected earnings growth rate of 24.5% for the current year. The stock has appreciated 62% in a years time. Harsco has a projected earnings growth rate of 9.1% for 2019. The companys shares have gained 5.4%, over the past year. 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 AptarGroup, Inc. (ATR) : Free Stock Analysis Report DMC Global Inc. (BOOM) : Free Stock Analysis Report Lawson Products, Inc. (LAWS) : Free Stock Analysis Report Harsco Corporation (HSC) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research By Paul Lienert May 28 (Reuters) - If French automaker Renault green-lights a proposed merger with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles , the companies almost immediately could begin saving money by consolidating components and basic structures on many of their most popular vehicles, an industry analyst said on Tuesday. The synergies could multiply if they invite Japanese automaker Nissan Motor Co, currently Renault's alliance partner, to join the merger, according to a former Renault and Nissan executive. Renault and Italian-American rival Fiat Chrysler Automobiles are in talks to tackle the costs of far-reaching technological and regulatory changes by creating the world's third-biggest automaker. A Renault-Fiat Chrysler combination "would mean a greater sharing of parts (which) could really boost the profitability of Fiat Chrysler's smaller vehicles," said Sam Fiorani, vice president, AutoForecast Solutions. Building similar models on a common vehicle architecture, Fiorani said, "would give both companies a lot more freedom in manufacturing. They could mix brands and vehicle sizes on the same assembly line, switch vehicles between plants to balance production, and even shift production from one country to another, depending on changes in demand, tariffs or other considerations." Fiorani said Fiat Chrysler could benefit from sharing the French automaker's expertise in electric vehicles and powertrains, where Renault and Nissan have jointly invested more than $5 billion. These are areas in which Fiat Chrysler has little in the way of components or intellectual property. Another sector that is ripe for consolidation is light commercial vehicles, where Renault and Fiat Chrysler could build a variety of vans in several sizes on common platforms that could be assembled and sold in global markets. Ford Motor Co and Volkswagen AG began their alliance discussions a year ago by focusing on potential collaboration in light commercial vehicles. Story continues GETTING NISSAN'S BLESSING Fiorani said Renault's CMF architecture, which was jointly developed with Nissan and underpins many of Renault's passenger cars and crossovers, could be used by Fiat Chrysler on a wide variety of vehicles. As an example, he said the CMF could provide a new foundation for at least five Jeep models, including the Renegade, Compass and Cherokee, which now are based on four different platforms. A hurdle to implementing the merger is all the intellectual property - including the CMF vehicle architecture - that is shared between Renault and Nissan, said Patrick Pelata, a veteran of the two automakers' alliance who was formerly Renault's chief operating officer. "They will need Nissans agreement for it to be used by Fiat Chrysler, Pelata told BFM radio on Tuesday. Nobodys talking about that right now, but its an important subject. Renault would not likely be interested in sharing Fiat Chrysler's body-on-frame platforms, which underpin the automaker's big pickups and SUVs in North America, Fiorani said. "But if Nissan is invited to join the merger, that could open up new possibilities," he said. "Nissan could use Fiat Chrysler's full-size truck platform for its next-generation Titan and Armada, while Fiat Chrysler could use Nissan's mid-size truck platform for the next-generation Dakota and Durango." Fiorani said it likely would take at least two years after a Renault-Fiat Chrysler merger is approved before the arrival of the first new vehicles built on shared architectures. (Reporting by Paul Lienert in Detroit Additional reporting by Laurence Frost in Paris Editing by Matthew Lewis) French automaker Renault said Monday that it would study "with interest" a 50-50 merger proposal from Fiat Chrysler, a deal that could reshape the industry as Renault reviews its options following the arrest in Japan of its chief executive. Renault had for years tied its strategy to a partnership with Japanese automaker Nissan but this has come into question after the arrest and subsequent ouster of Carlos Ghosn at both companies. After a board meeting over what it termed a "friendly" offer, Renault said it would enter talks on a merger that would forge the world's third-largest automaker. Investors cheered the prospect, with Renault's shares soaring 15 percent in afternoon trading in Paris, and Fiat Chrysler stock up more than 10 percent in Milan. A deal would give Fiat access in particular to Renault's electric car technologies, allowing it to meet the strict CO2 limits being enacted by the European Commission. Renault for its part might be able to tap the US market thanks to Fiat Chrysler's extensive operations in North America. "Given the investments and the technological advances that are going to be necessary, there's isn't really a choice, you have to reach a critical mass," said Flavien Neuvy of the Cetelem Observatory research group. The idea has the backing of the French government, which owns a 15 percent stake in Renault, after Fiat said the merger would not result in the closure of any production sites. "The government is in favour... but the terms of this merger must be supportive of Renault's economic development, and obviously of Renault's employees," government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye said Monday. Italy's outspoken deputy premier Matteo Salvini also gave a thumb's up to what he called a "brilliant deal". But labour unions were wary, with the CGT urging the French state to maintain a blocking minority after any deal. - 'Pre-eminent global group' Renault was plunged into disarray last November with the arrest in Tokyo of Ghosn, who was also chairman of its Japanese partner Nissan. Story continues That alliance, which also includes Mitsubishi, sells around 10.8 million automobiles per year in total, compared with Germany's Volkswagen and Japan's Toyota, both with around 10.6 million. But its future is in doubt following Ghosn's ouster at both Renault and Nissan, with Tokyo in particular bristling over a push by the French side for deeper integration. Renault holds 43 percent in Nissan, which in turn owns 15 percent of its French partner. Despite pledges on both sides to pursue the alliance, analysts say the tensions might be pushing Renault to explore alternatives. Fiat Chrysler said its proposal for Renault would create "a pre-eminent global automotive group" with annual sales of 8.7 million vehicles. The brand portfolio of the two groups would be "broad and complementary... and would provide full market coverage, from luxury to mainstream", it said. There was no mention of Nissan, which is battling falling sales and the reputational damage from the downfall of Ghosn, who is fighting financial misconduct charges. Nissan CEO Hiroto Saikawa told reporters Monday that he was "open to constructive discussions to strengthen the alliance," and the subject will surely be raised in a meeting on Wednesday with Renault's board chairman Jean-Dominique Senard. - Costly shift - Fiat Chrysler has been under pressure in Europe, stoking speculation it was looking for a partner as the highly competitive industry is pushed to consolidate in the face of declining demand and the costly switch to electric cars. The company is widely seen as a latecomer to the electric vehicle market, but does well in the US SUV and pick-up sectors. Renault, by contrast, was an early convert to electric cars and has made strong inroads in the market with its popular Zoe hatchback, though it has not yet tried to tackle the North American market. Fiat Chrysler said the merger would put the group in "a strong position in transforming technologies, including electrification and autonomous driving". Early this year, rumours circulated that Renault was interested in Fiat-Chrysler after its hopes for a full merger with Nissan or even French competitor PSA were dashed. Fiat Chrysler predicted that the merger would generate more than five billion euros ($5.6 billion) of cost-savings and other synergies, on top of the benefits from the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance. All counted, including Nissan and Mitsubishi, a combination with Fiat Chrysler would mean the production of close to 16 million vehicles, besting Volkswagen and Toyota. Theres a Peach Festival at the Emory Farmers Market on June 18, so head to the Cox Hall bridge from 11 p.m. to 3 p.m. to purchase this summer favorite and plenty of other seasonal fruits and vegetables. June offers a quieter atmosphere on campus, with fewer students and events. Faculty and staff may find more flexibility to explore campus exhibits, activities and amenities. Here are 10 free things to do on campus, though some have the option of spending a little money, for the first month of summer. 1. Hear talks on racial healing and justice. Come hear Candler School of Theology faculty members and an alumna lead the summer lecture series "Lift Every Voice: Racial Healing and Justice" every Sunday at 9:45 a.m. beginning June 2. The free public sessions will be held in the Ward Fellowship Hall of Glenn Memorial United Methodist Church and will also be live streamed on Facebook. 2. Come to a packing party to help migrant farmworkers. Help current undergraduate and graduate nursing students load the vans for the Farmworker Family Health Program immersion experience to provide primary care to Georgia migrant farmworkers and their families. Helpers at the Moultrie Packing Party put medical supplies, hygiene kits, chairs and tents into the vans on Friday, June 7, from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. This is a limited-space event so contact Marifel Verlohr at 404-727-3348 for space accommodation. 3. Take the last chance to see one of the Carlos Museums exhibitions. Rival Cuts: Process & Technique in Prints by Tom Huck & Albrecht Durer winds up June 9 at the Michael C. Carlos Museum. See contemporary artist Hucks often brash, incredibly detailed sociopolitical art, inspired by the famed German woodcut artists of the Northern Renaissance. Entrance to the museum is free for faculty, staff and students and its free every Thursday in June to the community as the Carlos Museum celebrates in 2019 its centennial year. 4. Get in on a WaterHub tour. Tours of Emorys world-famous WaterHub re-start Tuesday, June 11, at 11 a.m. and will be every Tuesday in June at that time and on Fridays at 10 a.m. Trained student guides lead the tours, providing information on how the WaterHub works and helps Emory meet sustainability goals. 5. Walk for fitness outside or indoors on campus. Meet new colleagues, bring friends and co-workers to participate in one of Healthy Emorys six-week summer walking groups, walking every Wednesday from June 12 through July 17. Meet Me @ the Quad is your early morning outdoor option, starting at 7:30 a.m. in front of the Candler Library. Meet Me @ the Tunnel is your option for walking indoors, avoiding the heat, and not having such an early start. Walk through Emory University Hospitals tunnels at 12 p.m. 6. Run to help support mens health. Emory and the CDC are collaborating to celebrate National Men's Health Week with a 5k run/walk on June 13, with check-in at 7:30 a.m. and the race 8 a.m. The event is rain or shine and open to all Emory and CDC employees. The course starts at Woodruff Residence Center, goes through Lullwater Preserve and along the back of the Clairmont campus, and loop backs through Lullwater before heading back out to Clifton Road and finishing at the Woodruff Residence Center. Registration and a waiver is required. 7. Celebrate peaches and other summer fruits and vegetables. Theres a Peach Festival at the June 18 Emory Farmers Market. Come to the Cox Hall Bridge from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to enjoy the popular summer fruit along with other seasonal fruits and vegetables, plus delicious prepared foods. Youll find plenty of tasty treats for under $10. Also, tentatively scheduled is a free concert by a group from the International Tuba & Euphonium Festival, which will be on campus for workshops and training. 8. Read/listen to a book, or several, just for pleasure this summer. Wanting to read something that isnt for work, class or self-improvement? Using the Overdrive program, you can download ebooks or audiobooks from the Woodruff Library on a variety of readers. Through the library, you have free access to popular bestsellers, including beach reads, biographies, memoirs, true crime and much more. 9. Register your valuables with Emory Police. Take some time to take advantage of the Emory Police Departments OperationID program. Register valuable items such as bikes, electronics or other property by make, model and serial number to provide a record in the case of theft for recovery and insurance, if needed. You can register your items at any time by visiting any Emory Police precinct (Atlanta campus, Oxford campus or Emory Midtown) or by completing an online form. 10. See two art exhibitions inspired by the work of Emory professors. NORFOLK, Va. (AP) A nonprofit that tracks pollution in the Chesapeake Bay lambasted Pennsylvania on Tuesday, saying that the state is failing to protect the nation's largest estuary from farm manure and dirty stormwater. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation released a report saying Pennsylvania's plan to reduce pollution from farms and cities is "woefully inadequate" and underfunded by about $250 million a year. The foundation also warned that the Environmental Protection Agency has failed to keep Pennsylvania on track. It's one of six states, along with the District of Columbia, federally required to significantly reduce bay pollution by 2025. "If EPA does not hold Pennsylvania accountable, CBF and others must consider legal action," foundation President William C. Baker warned in a news release. Pennsylvania officials said the foundation's assessment is inaccurate and failed to account for all of the state's efforts. The EPA said in its own statement that Pennsylvania has made "significant" progress. The foundation's report is the latest note of caution about the Chesapeake Bay's health, which appears to be improving after decades of unbridled pollution. In recent years, the story of the 200-mile-long (325-kilometer-long) bay has mostly been about signs of recovery. Underwater grasses are spreading. Oxygen dead zones are shrinking. The latest survey of blue crabs showed the highest estimates in seven years. But environmentalists say more work is needed and threats like climate change still loom. Last year, a punishing cycle of downpours led to increased pollution in the bay, according to a recent report from the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. The EPA has been requiring watershed states to cut phosphorous, nitrogen and sediment pollution, which comes from sewage treatment plants and runoff from farms and cities. The pollutants have led to oxygen dead zones that curtail animal and plant life. Story continues The EPA said in a statement Tuesday that it's reviewing each state's proposed plan to reduce pollution in the years leading up to 2025. Final plans are expected to be submitted in August. The foundation's report assessed plans from the states that cause the most pollution: Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. It said Virginia is on track provided it "accelerates" its efforts. Maryland is also on track but relies on "less cost effective" methods that may not be sustainable, the foundation said. The harshest criticism was for Pennsylvania. The state's boundaries do not reach the bay, but some of its waterways, like the Susquehanna River, flow into the Chesapeake through Maryland. The foundation said Pennsylvania needs to do more to make sure local stormwater systems are updated and farms are effectively handling manure. The state's Department of Conservation and Natural Resources as well as its Department of Environmental Protection pushed back against the report, noting that Pennsylvania has 33,000 farms and more than 350 municipalities in the watershed. Farmers are voluntarily making efforts to reduce runoff while best management practices are being implemented, the agencies said in a joint statement. "We will continue those efforts despite the lack of support from the Foundation or the federal government," the statement said. The other states in the Chesapeake Bay watershed are Delaware, New York and West Virginia. Following is a summary of current health news briefs. Scientists zoom in on bug behind Strep throat and scarlet fever Scientists studying a bacterium that causes scarlet fever, severe sore throat and a form of heart disease say they are closer to developing a vaccine that could one day prevent hundred of thousands of infections a year. In a study in the journal Nature Genetics, scientists from Britain and Australia found detailed differences between strains of Group A Streptococcus bacteria - known as Strep A - from 22 countries, but also found several molecular targets common across many strains, offering potential for vaccine development. Support for abortion rights grows as some U.S. states curb access: Reuters/Ipsos poll Americans have become more supportive of abortion rights over the past year, even as a wave of Republican-controlled state governments have imposed new restrictions, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Sunday. The poll found that 58% of American adults said abortion should be legal in most or all cases, up from 50% who said that in a similar poll that ran in July 2018. U.S. measles outbreak grows with 60 new measles cases across 26 states The United States recorded 60 new measles cases last week, taking confirmed cases for the year to 940, the worst outbreak since 1994 and since measles was declared eliminated in 2000, federal health officials said on Monday. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a 6.8% increase in the number of measles cases in the week ended May 24 in an outbreak that has now reached 26 states. The agency has been providing weekly updates every Monday. Cirrhosis, cancer risks higher with fatty liver - especially in diabetics Fatty liver disease that's not related to alcohol use is linked with an increased risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer, especially in people with diabetes, according to a large study from Europe. "We probably need a more systematic way of detecting the liver disease in patients at risk so we can prevent progression," Dr. William Alazawi from Barts Liver Center and the University of London told Reuters Health by email. "This involves raising awareness of liver disease among patients and their doctors and also making the most of the blood tests and scans that currently exist in people who we know are at risk." Story continues British Columbia to be first Canadian province to switch patients to biosimilars The Canadian province of British Columbia said on Monday that its public drug plan will switch as many as 20,400 patients from three branded biologic drugs to cheap near-copies called biosimilars, saving an estimated C$96.6 million ($71.9 million)over three years. The new policy from the province's PharmaCare program targets Janssen's Remicade and Amgen's Enbrel which treat arthritis, among other conditions, and Sanofi's long-acting insulin Lantus. It is the first of its kind in a Canadian public plan and could pave the way for similar programs across the country. Lopez Obrador says will shop abroad if necessary to fix medicine shortages Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador vowed on Monday to alleviate a medicine shortage in public hospitals, pledging to shop abroad for essential drugs if necessary and blaming the situation on companies upset about his crackdown on overpricing. The government promised on Friday to release about $126 million (2.4 billion pesos) to help alleviate shortages at Mexican public hospitals. The head of the largest public health system resigned last week citing budget cuts, a complaint echoed by several hospital directors. Energy drink consumption rising in the U.S. Americans are consuming more energy drinks, with a notable increase among young adults, survey data show. Energy drinks are non-alcoholic beverages with high levels of caffeine or other stimulants, plus amino acids, herbs and vitamins. They're marketed as fatigue killers and refreshing beverages that can improve physical and mental performance - but this may come at a price, researchers say. Vietnam swine fever cull surges, 1.7 million pigs dead Vietnam culled a further 500,000 pigs over the past two weeks to tackle an oubreak of African swine fever, taking the total killed so far to 1.7 million, or 5% of the country's herd, the agriculture ministry said on Monday. Pork accounts for three-quarters of total meat consumption in Vietnam, a country of 95 million people where most of its 30 million farm-raised pigs are consumed domestically. Teva Pharm to pay Oklahoma $85 million to settle opioid claims Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd said on Sunday it had agreed to pay an $85 million settlement with the state of Oklahoma days before the company was set to face trial over allegations that it and other drugmakers helped fuel the U.S. opioid epidemic. Teva, the world's largest generic drugmaker, said the settlement "does not establish any wrongdoing on the part of the company" and denied contributing to opioid abuse in Oklahoma. Following is a summary of current health news briefs. Scientists zoom in on bug behind Strep throat and scarlet fever Scientists studying a bacterium that causes scarlet fever, severe sore throat and a form of heart disease say they are closer to developing a vaccine that could one day prevent hundred of thousands of infections a year. In a study in the journal Nature Genetics, scientists from Britain and Australia found detailed differences between strains of Group A Streptococcus bacteria - known as Strep A - from 22 countries, but also found several molecular targets common across many strains, offering potential for vaccine development. WHO sees high risk as polio breaks out in Central African Republic Two cases of polio have been reported in the Central African Republic, the World Health Organization said in a report on Tuesday, the latest setback for global efforts to eradicate the crippling disease. The cases, reported to WHO on May 24, were caused by "vaccine-derived" polio rather than the wild type of the virus that still circulates in Pakistan and Afghanistan. WHO agrees watered-down resolution on transparency in drug costs World Health Organization members agreed on Tuesday to push for clearer drug pricing but stepped back from proposals by activists to force pharmaceutical firms to disclose the cost of making medicines. Activists say drug companies can charge high prices for some medicines and governments spend too much, because they negotiate without knowing how much each drug actually costs to make. U.S. measles outbreak grows with 60 new measles cases across 26 states The United States recorded 60 new measles cases last week, taking confirmed cases for the year to 940, the worst outbreak since 1994 and since measles was declared eliminated in 2000, federal health officials said on Monday. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a 6.8% increase in the number of measles cases in the week ended May 24 in an outbreak that has now reached 26 states. The agency has been providing weekly updates every Monday. Story continues Cirrhosis, cancer risks higher with fatty liver - especially in diabetics Fatty liver disease that's not related to alcohol use is linked with an increased risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer, especially in people with diabetes, according to a large study from Europe. "We probably need a more systematic way of detecting the liver disease in patients at risk so we can prevent progression," Dr. William Alazawi from Barts Liver Center and the University of London told Reuters Health by email. "This involves raising awareness of liver disease among patients and their doctors and also making the most of the blood tests and scans that currently exist in people who we know are at risk." British Columbia to be first Canadian province to switch patients to biosimilars The Canadian province of British Columbia said on Monday that its public drug plan will switch as many as 20,400 patients from three branded biologic drugs to cheap near-copies called biosimilars, saving an estimated C$96.6 million ($71.9 million)over three years. The new policy from the province's PharmaCare program targets Janssen's Remicade and Amgen's Enbrel which treat arthritis, among other conditions, and Sanofi's long-acting insulin Lantus. It is the first of its kind in a Canadian public plan and could pave the way for similar programs across the country. Lopez Obrador says will shop abroad if necessary to fix medicine shortages Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador vowed on Monday to alleviate a medicine shortage in public hospitals, pledging to shop abroad for essential drugs if necessary and blaming the situation on companies upset about his crackdown on overpricing. The government promised on Friday to release about $126 million (2.4 billion pesos) to help alleviate shortages at Mexican public hospitals. The head of the largest public health system resigned last week citing budget cuts, a complaint echoed by several hospital directors. Oklahoma, Johnson & Johnson face off in first opioid crisis trial Drugmaker Johnson & Johnson is set to face trial in a multibillion-dollar lawsuit by the state of Oklahoma aimed at pinning the blame for the opioid epidemic on its painkiller marketing. Lawyers for the state and J&J are scheduled to appear on Tuesday in a state court in Norman, Oklahoma, to deliver their opening statements at the start of the first trial to result from more than 2,000 similar lawsuits against opioid manufacturers nationally. Japan court says forced sterilizations unconstitutional, refuses compensation: media The forced sterilization of two women decades ago as teenagers was unconstitutional, a Japanese court said on Tuesday, but rejected their demands for compensation, in the first of about 20 such cases closely watched nationwide, media said. Tens of thousands of people were sterilized, many without their consent, under a government program aimed at preventing the birth of "inferior descendants" that ran until 1996. Newron delays schizophrenia drug trial after FDA raises concerns Swiss-listed drugmaker Newron must delay a trial of its prospective schizophrenia medicine evenamide after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration raised concerns about central nervous system (CNS) events that have emerged in rats and dogs. The company, whose Xadago against Parkinson's disease is already on the market, aims to broaden its stable of approved medicines with evenamide, which it is testing in concert with other drugs against schizophrenia. Following is a summary of current health news briefs. Supreme Court avoids abortion question, upholds fetal burial measure The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday sent a mixed message on abortion, refusing to consider reinstating Indiana's ban on abortions performed because of fetal disability or the sex or race of the fetus while upholding the state's requirement that fetal remains be buried or cremated after the procedure is done. Both provisions were part of a Republican-backed 2016 law signed by Vice President Mike Pence when he was Indiana's governor. The action by the justices comes at a time when numerous Republican-governed states including Alabama are approving restrictive abortion laws that the Supreme Court may be called upon to rule on in the future. Allergan to recall textured breast implants in Canada Allergan Plc said on Tuesday it will voluntarily recall its textured breast implants from the Canadian market, after the country's health regulator suspended the company's licenses for its Biocell implants, citing increased risk of cancer. Any unused Biocell saline-filled and silicone-filled textured breast implants will be removed from the Canadian market and no longer be sold, the drugmaker said. WHO counts down Africa polio clock despite fears of new outbreak Africa could be declared free of endemic "wild" polio early next year if a strain last seen in Nigeria almost three years ago does not resurface, the World Health Organization's Africa director said on Tuesday. Africa's last case of wild polio was recorded in Nigeria in August 2016. The country can now begin the months of paperwork needed before declaring that the virus is no longer circulating there, WHO Africa Regional Director Matshidiso Moeti told Reuters. WHO agrees watered-down resolution on transparency in drug costs Countries at the World Health Organization agreed on Tuesday to push for clearer drug pricing, after watering down a draft resolution that would have also required pharmaceutical firms to disclose the cost of making medicines. The deal calls on governments to share more information about the prices they pay for drugs, which can vary widely around the world and are often kept shrouded in secrecy. Story continues Allergan's Vraylar wins FDA approval for bipolar depression Allergan Plc's Vraylar won U.S. regulatory approval to treat depressive episodes of bipolar I disorder, expanding its scope of treatment to a full spectrum of symptoms related to the condition, the company said on Monday. Vraylar, which recorded a 70.3% sales jump in the first quarter, is an approved treatment in the United States for schizophrenia in adults and for manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. Missouri to be only U.S. state with no legal abortion provider after state action Missouri is poised this week to become the only U.S. state without access to legal abortions as health officials refuse to renew its last clinic's license to perform the procedure, women's health services provider Planned Parenthood said on Tuesday. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services did not respond to a request for comment. J&J's greed helped fuel U.S. opioid crisis, Oklahoma claims at trial Johnson & Johnson's greed led the drugmaker to use deceptive marketing to create an oversupply of painkillers that fueled the U.S. opioid epidemic, the state of Oklahoma alleged at the start of the first trial to result from lawsuits over the drug crisis. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter, who filed the multibillion-dollar case, argued in a state court in the city of Norman that J&J should be forced to pay for helping cause the "worst manmade public health crisis in our state's history." Japan court says forced sterilizations unconstitutional, refuses compensation: media The forced sterilization of two women decades ago as teenagers was unconstitutional, a Japanese court said on Tuesday, but rejected their demands for compensation, in the first of about 20 such cases closely watched nationwide, media said. Tens of thousands of people were sterilized, many without their consent, under a government program aimed at preventing the birth of "inferior descendants" that ran until 1996. China faces long struggle to tackle African swine fever: OIE It will take years for China to contain the deadly African swine fever virus that has spread throughout the country, which is the world's biggest pork producer, the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) said on Tuesday. China has been struggling to control the epidemic, which some analysts predict could see up to 200 million pigs die or be culled this year, causing a huge shortage of pork locally and have economic impact on the meat and feed industry globally. France to ban widely used crop fungicide over health concerns France's health and safety regulator has decided to ban a widely used crop fungicide after classifying it as a so-called endocrine disruptor posing risks for humans and the environment. The ANSES agency said on Tuesday it was withdrawing the marketing license for 76 products containing epoxiconazole, which is commonly applied to protect cereal and sugar beet fields in France, the European Union's biggest crop producer. Following is a summary of current US domestic news briefs. Rolling Thunder veterans group makes final ride through Washington The Rolling Thunder motorcycles that descend on Washington, D.C. every Memorial Day weekend made their final ride on Sunday, ending a three decades-old tradition that was initially meant to serve to pay tribute to fallen and missing-in-action soldiers. The veterans advocacy group, formed in 1987 by 73-year-old Vietnam veteran Artie Muller, got its name from a 1965 bombing campaign against North Vietnam dubbed "Operation Rolling Thunder." MacKenzie Bezos pledges half her fortune to charity after Amazon divorce MacKenzie Bezos, the former wife of Amazon.com Inc Chief Executive Jeff Bezos, pledged on Tuesday to give away half her fortune to charity, following a movement founded by billionaires Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates. Bezos, whose former husband is the world's richest man, was one of 19 people on Tuesday to sign the "Giving Pledge," a campaign announced in 2010 by Berkshire Hathaway Inc's Buffett and Microsoft Corp co-founder Bill Gates. It calls for the super-rich to give away more than half their fortunes during their lifetimes or in their wills. Support for abortion rights grows as some U.S. states curb access: Reuters/Ipsos poll Americans have become more supportive of abortion rights over the past year, even as a wave of Republican-controlled state governments have imposed new restrictions, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Sunday. The poll found that 58% of American adults said abortion should be legal in most or all cases, up from 50% who said that in a similar poll that ran in July 2018. S-T-R-E-S-S: National Spelling Bee takes step to ease pressure A line of youngsters fidgets on stage, waiting for a turn to spell a multisyllabic tongue-twister of a word and hoping to advance to the final round of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. One by one, they step forward. The stress is palpable. Adding to the pressure, finalists in the last two annual bees faced an extra layer of behind-the-scenes angst: a written test designed to break a potential deadlock in the main event. Story continues U.S. measles outbreak grows with 60 new measles cases across 26 states The United States recorded 60 new measles cases last week, taking confirmed cases for the year to 940, the worst outbreak since 1994 and since measles was declared eliminated in 2000, federal health officials said on Monday. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a 6.8% increase in the number of measles cases in the week ended May 24 in an outbreak that has now reached 26 states. The agency has been providing weekly updates every Monday. For battles with Congress, Trump reshapes legal defense team President Donald Trump is restructuring his legal team with lawyers more at home in a courtroom than a television studio as he shifts from dealing with Special Counsel Robert Mueller to battling Democratic-led investigations in the U.S. Congress. The long-time leaders of Trump's team - Jay Sekulow and Rudy Giuliani - remain in place. But other attorneys, known for their litigation skills, are taking on larger roles on the team: William Consovoy, Patrick Strawbridge, Marc Mukasey and Stefan Passantino. Illinois to ask residents to vote on how income tax is levied on 2020 ballot The Illinois House of Representatives on Monday voted to put a proposal that would change the state's personal income tax system on a ballot to take place alongside the 2020 U.S. national election vote. The measure would allow voters to decide whether to amend the state constitution to allow for a graduated income tax model, where high earners pay steeper rates, from the current, constitutionally mandated flat rate. Flooded Arkansas, Oklahoma brace for more rain; Southeast gets record heat Flooded Arkansas and Oklahoma were bracing for more rain that will feed the already swollen Arkansas River, forecasters said on Monday, as Missouri deployed the National Guard in anticipation of further storms. With millions of Americans under flood warnings on the Memorial Day holiday, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois got deluged while Oklahoma and Arkansas got a reprieve for the most part. Oklahoma, Johnson & Johnson face off in first opioid crisis trial Drugmaker Johnson & Johnson is set to face trial in a multibillion-dollar lawsuit by the state of Oklahoma aimed at pinning the blame for the opioid epidemic on its painkiller marketing. Lawyers for the state and J&J are scheduled to appear on Tuesday in a state court in Norman, Oklahoma, to deliver their opening statements at the start of the first trial to result from more than 2,000 similar lawsuits against opioid manufacturers nationally. Tornado hits city of Dayton, more storms expected in south, central U.S. A tornado slammed into the U.S. city of Dayton, Ohio on Monday as severe storms were forecast to pound the area overnight, officials and media reports said. At least two other tornadoes touched down near the city, including one near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, just east of Dayton, media reports said. Following is a summary of current world news briefs. UK equality watchdog opens antisemitism probe into opposition Labour party Britain's equality watchdog said on Tuesday it was launching a formal investigation to determine whether Jeremy Corbyn's Labour Party has discriminated against, harassed or victimized people because they are Jewish. Labour, Britain's main opposition party, has promised to co-operate fully with the investigation, it added. Merkel heir faces widespread criticism after proposal to regulate online opinion Chancellor Angela Merkel's heir apparent faced criticism from across Germany's political spectrum on Tuesday after she called for rules about expressing online opinions before elections in response to a YouTube video that criticized her party. Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, who replaced Merkel as leader of the ruling CDU last year, denied she was promoting censorship after her comments, which were prompted by a YouTube video by a popular 26-year-old blogger named Rezo. Knife-wielding man slashes schoolgirls at bus stop in Japan, killing two A knife-wielding man slashed at a group of schoolgirls at a bus stop in Japan on Tuesday, killing one girl and an adult who may have been the father of one child, media reported. Sixteen other girls between the ages of 6 and 12 and a woman were wounded in the attack by a middle-aged man who died later of a self-inflicted wound, broadcaster NHK said, citing police. Austria's Kurz leaves office, eyes return within months Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz left office on Tuesday after parliament voted out his conservative provisional government, blaming him in part for a political crisis triggered by a video sting scandal that felled his far-right deputy. President Alexander Van der Bellen formally relieved the cabinet of its duties and asked ministers except Kurz to carry on for some days until a caretaker cabinet is chosen pending the next parliamentary election, expected in September. Story continues EU leaders fire starting gun for top jobs race German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron will lock horns in Brussels on Tuesday as European Union leaders meet to begin bargaining over who will take the bloc's top jobs for the next five years. An EU-wide election last week returned a European Parliament with a splintered center and gains by pro-EU liberals and greens as well as eurosceptic nationalists and the far-right. Britain's Hunt says pursuing no-deal Brexit would be "political suicide" Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said it would be "political suicide" for Britain to pursue a no-deal Brexit, becoming the most senior figure vying to succeed Prime Minister Theresa May to rule it out and drawing a battle line with rival contenders. Hunt's remarks put him at odds with most other candidates including the frontrunner, Hunt's predecessor as foreign secretary, Boris Johnson, who has said Britain should quit the EU with or without a deal by the end of October. Trump expects Japan's military to reinforce United States in Asia and beyond U.S. President Donald Trump expects that Japan's military will reinforce U.S. forces throughout Asia and elsewhere, he said on Tuesday, as the key U.S. ally upgrades the ability of its forces to operate further from its shores. Trump's comments followed his inspection of Japan's largest warship, the Kaga, a helicopter carrier designed to carry submarine-hunting helicopters to distant waters. Sudan's opposition observes first day of strike Sudan's alliance of opposition and protest groups held the first day of a strike on Tuesday as tensions mounted with the country's military rulers over the transition to democracy. Talks between the ruling Transitional Military Council (TMC) and the Declaration of Freedom and Change Forces (DFCF) alliance are at a standstill despite weeks of negotiations over whether civilians or the military will have the upper hand after the ousting of long-time president Omar al-Bashir last month. U.S. walks out of U.N. arms forum as Venezuela takes chair The United States walked out of the Conference on Disarmament on Tuesday to protest Venezuela assuming the rotating presidency of the U.N.-sponsored forum - as it did a year ago when Syria took the chair. "We have to try to do what we can to prevent these types of states from presiding over international bodies," Robert Wood, U.S. disarmament ambassador, told reporters after leaving the session in Geneva. Iran sees no prospect of negotiations with U.S.: foreign ministry Iran sees no prospect of negotiations with the United States, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, a day after U.S. President Donald Trump said a deal with Tehran on its nuclear program was possible. Washington withdrew last year from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Tehran, and is ratcheting up sanctions in efforts to strangle Iran's economy by ending its international sales of crude oil. By Asif Shahzad ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Human rights groups have called on Pakistan to investigate the killing of three people by the military during a protest by ethnic minority Pashtun people against heavy-handed treatment by the security forces. The army said its troops exchanged fire with protesters on Sunday when they assaulted a security post in the northwest, near the Afghan border. The protesters were complaining about the mistreatment of a woman by soldiers. The violence is the most serious incident in a long-running confrontation between the authorities and the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM), which campaigns for civil rights for the Pashtun people. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said it was alarmed by the use of military force and called for a parliamentary commission to investigate. "The Pakistani government should immediately order an independent and effective investigation into the reported killing of at least three activists," the rights group Amnesty International said in a statement. The army said 10 protesters and five soldiers were wounded. The PTM said 30 people were wounded. Pashtuns live in northwest Pakistan and southeast Afghanistan, divided by a colonial-era border that Afghanistan has never recognised. The military has accused the PTM of being funded by foreign intelligence agencies - a veiled reference to old rival India and its Afghan allies - to stoke unrest in Pakistan's Pashtun lands after the Pakistani army defeated Islamist militants there. The PTM rejects the accusation, saying it is a grassroots movement working for the rights of Pashtun people, who it says suffered through years of conflict between the security forces and Islamists. Two Pashtun members of parliament were at the protests and one was arrested and the other wounded. "They were shooting at everyone," the wounded politician, Mohsin Dawar, said in a video posted on social media. "They opened fire on us from behind. We saw that people were collapsing around us." (Additional Reporting by Jibran Ahmad in Peshawar; Writing by Asif Shahzad; Editing by Robert Birsel) Toxic sewage is keeping people away from a beach in San Diego County. Imperial Beach is now entirely closed to swimmers. The contaminated runoff is coming from Mexico's Tijuana River. Officials say more than 110 million gallons of toxic storm water has flowed north since April. Health officials warn the sewage and other ocean pollutants can lead to infection and illness. The closures come after protesters urged both U.S. and Mexican officials to stop untreated sewage from flowing into the U.S. from the river on rainy days. Bucharest (AFP) - Romania's ruling Social Democrats, or PSD, held crisis meetings Tuesday after a disastrous 48 hours that saw them thrashed at the polls and their leader sent to jail. In the European parliamentary elections on Sunday, the PSD saw its share of the vote plunge to 23 percent from 37 percent in 2014. The next day, the party's controversial leader Liviu Dragnea went to prison after losing an appeal against a corruption conviction. Party bosses met to discuss a timetable for finding Dragnea's successor, but they seemed to be at a loss as to how to respond to the party's broader predicament. "The party has been decapitated and will find it hard to find a charismatic, credible leader acceptable to its voters," analyst Andrei Taranu told AFP. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila, who has rejected opposition calls for snap elections, has taken over Dragnea's role in the interim. During his time as party chief -- a previous corruption conviction prevented him from becoming Prime Minister -- Dragnea made sure there were no viable challengers to his position. But observers said the knives will now be out for him and his allies within the party. Marian Oprisan, a local PSD leader, on Tuesday blamed Dragnea for the party's poor performance in the polls. And PSD MEP Victor Bostinaru complained that Dragnea had filled the government with his own cronies. "Most of the people given public office were loyal to a single man and they were at best mediocre," he said. - Popularity squandered - Dragnea was finally sent to jail on Monday for a second corruption conviction, after his appeal was rejected. Hundreds of anti-government protesters toasted the verdict with champagne in Bucharest's Victoriei Square on Monday -- the same site of months-long demonstrations against the PSD's controversial judicial reforms. Analyst Taranu said that Dragnea had squandered the initial popularity he enjoyed when the PSD first came to power by insisting on the reforms, which were widely seen as being conceived to help Dragnea escape his various legal problems. Story continues Many also fear the reforms could hinder the fight against corruption, which still blights Romanian public life. Dragnea's fall in popularity worsened "when he started changing prime ministers like his socks," Taranu said. Two prime ministers were toppled by Dragnea in just seven months before he installed Dancila in the post in January 2018. On Sunday, centre-right President Klaus Iohannis, a long-time PSD critic, called for the government to go in the wake of the election results, describing the administration as an "accident of democracy". - 'Goodbye PSD!' - In the media, even TV stations normally aligned to the party have toned down their pro-government rethoric. "Goodbye, PSD!" proclaimed the daily, Adevarul, which has become increasingly critical of the government in the past two years. "The PSD has always been a party grouped around a leader, with no ideology. Without a leader they are in a very difficult situation," said analyst Taranu. In another headache for the PSD, its judicial reforms were roundly rejected in a separate referendum also held on Sunday. With 85 percent of votes counted, around five million voters had voted against the reforms, with only 850,000 backing the government, the election commission said on Tuesday. Dancila hinted that the party was now considering dropping the reforms altogether, saying they had caused the party "much damage". The European Commission has warned Romania may face sanctions unless it changes tack on the reforms, and the issue has marred Romania's first-ever EU presidency. MOSCOW, May 28 (Reuters) - Russia's embassy in Serbia on Tuesday demanded that Kosovo immediately release a detained Russian national working at a United Nations mission in Kosovo, the RIA news agency reported. The Russian national was detained in a Serb-populated municipality in Kosovo's north during a police operation there, RIA said. "We demand the immediate release of the Russian and that those responsible for this flagrant incident be brought to account," the embassy was quoted as saying. (Reporting by Polina Ivanova; writing by Tom Balmforth; editing by John Stonestreet) Moscow (AFP) - With millions of dollars missing and officials in prison or fleeing the country, Russia's space sector is at the heart of a staggering embezzlement scheme that has dampened ambitions of recovering its Soviet-era greatness. For years, Moscow has tried to fix the industry that was a source of immense pride in the USSR. While it has bounced back from its post-Soviet collapse and once again become a major world player, the Russian space sector has recently suffered a series of humiliating failures. And now, massive corruption scandals at state space agency Roscosmos have eclipsed its plans to launch new rockets and lunar stations. "Billions (of rubles) are being stolen there, billions," Alexander Bastrykin, the powerful head of Russia's Investigative Committee -- Russia's equivalent of the FBI -- said in mid-May. Investigations into corruption at Roscosmos have been ongoing "for around five years and there is no end in sight," he added. In the latest controversy, a senior space official appears to have fled Russia during an audit of the research centre he headed. Yury Yaskin, the director of the Research Institute of Space Instrumentation, left Russia for a European country in April where he announced his resignation, the Kommersant paper reported. He feared the discovery of malpractice during an inspection of the institute, according to the newspaper's sources. Roscosmos confirmed to AFP that Yaskin had resigned but did not clarify why. His Moscow institute is involved in developing the Russian satellite navigation system GLONASS designed to compete with the American GPS system. - Stopping corruption 'primary goal' - Corruption has particularly affected Russia's two most important space projects of the decade: GLONASS and the construction of the country's showpiece cosmodrome Vostochny, built to relieve Moscow's dependence on Baikonur in ex-Soviet Kazakhstan. Almost all major companies in the sector, including rocket builders Khrunichev and Progress, have been hit by financial scandals that have sometimes led to prison sentences for large-scale fraud. Story continues Russia's Audit Chamber, a parliamentary body of financial control, said financial violations at Roscosmos in 2017 stood at 760 billion rubles (around $11.7 billion), accounting for nearly 40 percent of the total irregularities in the entire economy that year. Roscosmos told AFP that "eradicating corruption" is one of its "primary goals", adding that it regularly cooperates with investigations by the authorities. In mid-April, President Vladimir Putin stressed the need to "progressively resolve the obvious problems that slow down the development of the rocket-space sector." "The time and financial frameworks to realise space projects are often unjustified," the Russian leader said. - More money, more corruption - Rebooting the space sector is a matter of prestige for the Kremlin. It symbolises its renewed pride and ability to be a major global power, especially in the context of increased tensions with the United States. Almost destroyed in the 1990s, the sector stayed afloat thanks to foreign commercial contracts. But independent space expert Vitaly Yegorov told AFP there were still "executives of a very high professional level" at that time and fewer accidents during launches. The first module of the International Space Station (ISS), Zarya, was manufactured in Russia and launched in 1998 despite a major financial crisis at the time. Paradoxically, the situation deteriorated in the early 2000s, when the Russian economy was growing. The influx of public funds fuelled fraud, and space research stopped advancing, experts say. "Today, the space sector works like this: give us money and we will launch something -- one day," Yegorov said. Only the ISS continues to be "an unshakeable ivory tower", he said, since it plays a "political role" aimed at maintaining international cooperation. Analysts say Roscosmos chief Dmitry Rogozin, a former deputy prime minister known for his anti-Western statements, is struggling to deal with the industry's problems. Russia's scientific community has criticised Rogozin, who is a journalism graduate, for his lack of knowledge of the space sector. "He probably would have made an excellent spokesman for Roscosmos," joked Yegorov, adding: "Even Superman could not handle this avalanche of problems." Hundreds of families visited the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon on Memorial Day to remember those who served in the military. There are more than 36,000 servicemembers interred at the cemetery. A Vacaville family remembered their father, James Whitmore, who served in Vietnam. His son said Whitmore returned home to a divided country, where many Vietnam soldiers were met with scorn instead of praise. However, on Monday, James Whitmore was remembered as a hero. Get the full story in the video above. Photo: iStock Santa Ana is due to turn warm in the coming days, according to drone-powered weather forecasting service Saildrone. Temperatures will reach a high of 78 degrees on Friday. The immediate forecast also has clear skies in store for today. Skies will become mostly cloudy beginning on Wednesday. Winds will remain fairly calm during the week, with merely a light breeze of 4 mph on Thursday. This story was created automatically using Saildrone's local weather forecast data, then reviewed by an editor. We also incorporate historic weather data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. BEIRUT (Reuters) - New satellite images show fields, orchards and olive groves burning in northwest Syria, where the army has waged an assault against rebels in their last major stronghold. Government air strikes, backed by Russia, have focused on the south of Idlib province and nearby parts of Hama, uprooting nearly 250,000 people. The bombing has killed 229 civilians and injured 727 others, according to the Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations (UOSSM) charity. The rescue service, which works in opposition territory, said shelling and air raids killed 24 people in villages in the northwest on Tuesday, including children. In photos by satellite imagery provider DigitalGlobe Inc, plumes of dark smoke rise from the countryside around al-Habeet village in Idlib and the small town of Kafr Nabouda in Hama. The before and after images, collected at the start and end of last week, show patches of scorched earth, fields blackened by fire, and clusters of destroyed buildings. Some of the fires appear to be still burning. Mustafa al-Haj Yousef, head of the Idlib civil defense, said government warplanes had been pounding crop fields, sparking dozens of fires. Syrian state news agency SANA said on Tuesday that militants had shelled villages in the northern Hama countryside, damaging houses and burning wheat fields. While al-Habeet is in the hands of insurgents, government forces recaptured Kafr Nabouda on Sunday, the third time it changed hands in the latest fighting. State media said the army seized it from Tahrir al-Sham, formerly the Nusra Front until it broke away from al Qaeda. The army onslaught in the northwest over the past month marks the most intense escalation between President Bashar al-Assad and his insurgent enemies since last summer. (Additional reporting by Ellen Francis in Beirut and Khalil Ashawi in Syria; Editing by Frances Kerry and Dan Grebler) The hedge fund investor and former Sears boss who bought the chain's assets out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy is now trying to back out of an agreement to pay for the severance of the retailer's laid-off employees. Former Sears CEO, chairman and shareholder Eddie Lampert is requesting that a federal bankruptcy judge release him from his obligation to compensate former Sears workers, who he had agreed to pay up to $43 million. Lampert argues that Sears has not lived up to its part of a deal to sell him most of its assets and that as a result, he is not obligated to pay severance costs. The agreement applied to workers who lost their jobs from the day Sears filed for bankruptcy in October through February, when Sears assets were sold to Lampert in a last-minute deal. The company closed hundreds of stores during that period. In a court filing, Lampert's representatives accused Sears Holdings of failing to deliver "hundreds of millions of dollars of assets" it had promised as part of the deal to save the company from total liquidation. Those assets were earmarked to make the severance payments. Lampert previously led Sears Holdings but resigned as CEO when the company filed for bankruptcy. He then purchased the company's assets through a new vehicle called Transform Holdco. Through Transform Holdco, a subsidiary of his hedge fund ESL Investments, Lampert accused Sears Holdings of: Not handing over ownership of Sears headquarters' building in Illinois. Failing to deliver promised receivables and prepaid inventory. Purposely delaying payments to key vendors. Attempting to shift certain liabilities to Transform Holdco. The accusations reflect the latest twist in a saga that has taken an unexpected turn since Sears struck the last-minute deal in February to sell most of its assets to Lampert. Last-minute deal: Sears saved from liquidation: Judge approves bankruptcy sale to ex-CEO Eddie Lampert Sears lawsuit: Former Sears company sues ex-CEO Lampert, Treasury's Steven Mnuchin over 'asset stripping' Story continues Since then, the "Old Sears," as some have called it, has sued Lampert's ESL, accusing its former boss of engaging in a scheme to strip the company of assets over time. Lampert has repeatedly defended himself, saying he invested his own fortune in an attempt to rescue Sears and helped keep thousands of employees at work. ESL said recently that it "vigorously disputes" the Sears Holdings lawsuit, calling them "baseless allegations and fanciful claims" that "are misleading or just flat wrong." The downsized retailer now has roughly 400 stores, including Kmart. Sears closed more than 3,500 stores and cut about 250,000 jobs in roughly the last 15 years as sales cratered, leading to the company's Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in October. Lampert's new Sears entity said in a court filing that it "believes that prompt resolution of these matters is important and necessary at this time to allow" for the resolution of the retailer's Chapter 11 case. A lawyer for Sears Holdings was not immediately available for comment Monday afternoon. United for Respect, a group that advocates for employee rights, criticized Lampert's move. Sears always promised us one week of severance pay for every year we were with the company. But after 21 years of service, I was laid off in January of 2019 and received just four weeks of severance pay, said Sears employee and United for Respect leader Brenda Urrutia of El Centro, California, in an email. Its not fair that Eddie Lampert and his friends are walking away with billions and now trying to cheat dedicated employees like me from what we were promised. Follow USA TODAY reporter Nathan Bomey on Twitter @NathanBomey. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Sears buyer Eddie Lampert wants to avoid up to $43M in severance pay from bankruptcy By Fatos Bytyci and Aleksandar Vasovic BELGRADE/PRISTINA (Reuters) - Serbia ordered its troops on full alert on Tuesday and Russia accused Kosovo of provocation after a Kosovan police anti-crime operation in a region populated mainly by Serbs led to clashes. At least 19 people were arrested and a Russian U.N. official detained in the operation. Five police and six Serb civilians were wounded in fighting, Kosovan official said. The incidents signaled rising tensions in four Serb-majority municipalities in northern Kosovo, parts of which remain largely outside control of Pristina and pledge allegiance to Belgrade. The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Kosovo appealed for calm. Belgrade said it viewed the Kosovan police operation as an attempt by Pristina to take control of northern parts of Kosovo which border Serbia. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic told parliament that Belgrade would try to "preserve peace and stability" but remained ready to react. "As the supreme commander, I have placed our army units in full combat readiness, if there is any serious endangering of order and people in the northern Kosovo, they will protect our people," he told deputies. Kosovan Foreign Minister Behgjet Pacolli said the operation had been carried out against criminal groups in northern Kosovo, where cross-boder smuggling is rampant. "It was normal work of our police and I believe it's not the last operation in Kosovo. Maybe today or the next days we will keep fighting the organized crime," Pacoli told reporters in the Slovak capital Bratislava. In Pristina, police chief Rashit Qalaj said a total of 19 Kosovan police officers had been arrested on suspicion of smuggling goods into the country. Eleven were ethnic Serbs, four ethnic Albanians and four were Bosniaks, he told a news conference. Law enforcement officers had faced "armed resistance", Qalaj said. Five policemen were wounded, one from a gunshot. Six Serb civilians were also hurt, he said. Majority-Albanian Kosovo declared independence in 2008, almost a decade after NATO air strikes wrested control of the territory away from Belgrade to end a counter-insurgency campaign by Serbian security forces. But Serbia, which under its constitution considers Kosovo an integral part of its territory, has been blocking Kosovo from membership of international institutions including Interpol and UNESCO. It also still provides financial aid to Serbs in Kosovo. RUSSIAN DETAINED Two United Nations employees, one of them Russian, were also detained in the Kosovo police operation. Both were later released after demands from the U.N. mission - known as UNMIK - and the Kremlin. They were taken to hospital for treatment. Qalaj said the Russian and a local staffer had been detained for joining a barricade. UNMIK was following the developments in northern Kosovo with great concern, U.N. mission chief Zahir Tanin said in a statement. "I urge all parties to abide by the principles of rule of law and dignity for all to life and liberty, and to help restore calm and security in the area," he said. Moscow, a close ally of Serbia, had wasted no time in demanding the immediate release of the Russian and criticizing the Kosovan government. "We consider the incursion of the Kosovo-Albanian special forces into the region's north...as yet another provocation from Pristina aimed at intimidating and squeezing out the non-Albanian population and establishing control over these areas by force," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement. The NATO peacekeeping force in Kosovo (KFOR) said it was ready to intervene if necessary and also appealed for calm. "Because of the political sensitivity of the moment...KFOR invites all the parties to deal with the disputes peacefully and responsibly, without any use of force or violence," NATO said. A day earlier, Serbia's Vucic had said Serbia had lost control over Kosovo and called for a compromise solution between Belgrade and Pristina to end the stalemated conflict. (The story corrects to show police chief Qalaj, not not U.N. mission chief Zahir Tanin, said U.N. employees were arrested for joining barricade.) (Reporting by Fatos Bytyci in Pristina, Aleksandar Vasovic in Belgrade, Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber and Tom Balmforth in Moscow, Jan Lopatka in Bratislava, Editing by Angus MacSwan) By Idrees Ali WASHINGTON (Reuters) - As acting U.S. Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan heads to Asia on Tuesday to deliver a major policy speech on the region, increasing tensions with Iran threaten to upend the Pentagon's strategy to focus on "great power competition" and countering Russia and China, officials and experts say. In January 2018, the U.S. military put China and Russia at the center of a new national defense strategy, shifting priorities after more than a decade and a half of focusing on the fight against Islamist militants. On his first day as acting defense secretary in January, Shanahan told civilian leaders of the U.S. military to focus on "China, China, China." But escalating tension with Iran over the past month could impair that focus. The U.S. military has cited what it sees as a threat of potential attack by Iran to deploy hundreds of troops to the region, in addition to Patriot missiles, bombers and the accelerated movement of a carrier strike group. The United States on Friday announced the deployment of 1,500 troops to the Middle East, describing it as an effort to bolster defenses against Iran as it accused the country's Revolutionary Guards of direct responsibility for this months tanker attacks off the United Arab Emirates. Those deployments are small compared with the nearly 70,000 American troops stationed across the Middle East and Afghanistan and are not enough to change the Pentagon strategy. But a period of protracted tensions could set it back. "The greatest way to kill the National Defense Strategy and its focus on long-term competition and preparing for the possibility of conflict with China and Russia is to start another war in the Middle East," said Mara Karlin, a former Pentagon official now with the Brookings Institution. Karlin said it was not just conflict with Iran that would distract the Pentagon from its own strategy, but that planning itself can consume resources. Story continues A U.S. official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said Pentagon leadership was spending time discussing the question of what a large-scale conflict with Iran could mean for the focus on China and Russia. The official said the hope was that the deterrence measures being used by the Pentagon - sending aircraft and ships to the region - would be enough to stave off a major conflict with Iran. U.S. allies in Asia, as well as China, are highly sensitive to the degree of American focus on their region, said Abraham Denmark, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for East Asia. "They watch very closely our rhetoric, investments, our deployments toward any area outside of Asia, looking and raising questions about the sustainability of American commitment to Asia," said Denmark, currently with the Woodrow Wilson Center think-tank. CHINA, CHINA, CHINA? At the annual Shangri-La defense forum in Singapore later this week , Shanahan is expected to lay out his vision for the Asia-Pacific, with a particular focus on China, and what specifically the Pentagon is doing to implement its National Defense Strategy in the region. The closely watched speech will come at a time of tense relations between China and the United States, which are locked in a series of disputes, most notably a large-scale trade war and a jostling for military influence in the region. In just the past month, the United States has carried out two operations in the South China Sea and a transit through the strategic Taiwan Strait, moves that have angered China. A senior U.S. defense official said Shanahan's speech in Singapore would emphasize continuity in the American commitment to the region. "There's a lot of things that as a global power we have to be able to attend to. But this trip is about kind of showing and underscoring how our commitment (to Asia) is playing out," the official said. In his first trip to the region as acting defense secretary, Shanahan will also visit Indonesia, South Korea and Japan. The former Boeing Co. executive, whom President Donald Trump intends to nominate formally for defense secretary, is expected to meet his Chinese counterpart in Singapore. The Pentagon will also release a new report on U.S. military strategy for the region that will highlight areas where the United States is making investments and alliances in the region, the official said. "China can change the world... we can't afford to lose in Asia. Asia is the crown jewel," said Elbridge Colby, who led the Pentagon's development of the National Defense Strategy. "So we have to stay in the Middle East, but you've got to turn down the temperature and the demand signal," said Colby, currently with the Center for a New American Security. (Reporting by Idrees Ali; Editing by Mary Milliken and Dan Grebler) By Nqobile Dludla JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africa's deputy president David Mabuza was sworn in as a lawmaker on Tuesday, after a week's postponement for him to address accusations he brought the ruling African National Congress (ANC) into disrepute, the party said. The move clears the way for 58-year-old Mabuza, an important ally of President Cyril Ramaphosa, to remain his deputy, but again throws a spotlight on shadowy corruption allegations that have hit the ANC's popularity in recent years. The ANC easily won this month's general election, though its vote share dropped due to anger over scandals and persistent inequalities since it took over after the end of apartheid and white minority rule in 1994. Ramaphosa said last week that Mabuza requested a delay to his swearing-in at parliament after a report by the ANC integrity commission alleging he had "prejudiced the integrity" of the party and brought it "into disrepute." The former schoolteacher and premier of northeastern Mpumalanga province has struggled to shrug off allegations there over irregular tenders for a 2010 World Cup stadium, political killings, and gifts to former president Jacob Zuma. He denies all wrongdoing, and wants all the allegations levelled against him to be tested in a court of law. ANC presidency office head Zizi Kodwa told Reuters that Mabuza had met members of the integrity commission in the past week. A report would be given to the party's executive committee, he said, without giving any further details. "ALL SYSTEMS GO" Party spokesman Pule Mabe said developments implied Mabuza had been cleared of any accusations. "I wouldn't know what they had said, but I can tell you now that the fact that the deputy president is being sworn in, it means that all the issues that the integrity commission wanted clarity on have been clarified," he told broadcaster eNCA. "So it's all systems go." Story continues Daniel Silke, director of the Political Futures Consultancy, said the go-ahead for Mabuza gave him "a degree of additional respectability", though he lamented that the South African public was in the dark over the case. "Unfortunately it all seems very secretive. There is very little transparency in the way this matter has been dealt with," he told Reuters, saying that contrasted with Ramaphosa's pledge to run a cleaner and more transparent government. Mabuza took the parliamentary oath in front of Ramaphosa and new National Assembly speaker Thandi Modise. He declined to take any questions from media waiting outside the presidential guest house in the capital Pretoria. Ramaphosa, whose predecessor Zuma's 2009-2018 presidency was dogged by allegations of widespread corruption, is due to announce his new cabinet later this week. (Additional reporting by Wendell Roelf in Cape Town; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) BENGALURU (Reuters) - Budget airline SpiceJet Ltd posted a 22% jump in fourth-quarter profit on Tuesday, as it flew more customers and was able to raise prices at a time when the industry benefited from the collapse of Jet Airways. Indian carriers, including budget airlines SpiceJet and Interglobe Aviation Ltd's IndiGo, have been taking advantage of debt-laden Jet's downfall, adding flights and routes and raising fares in response to a drop in capacity. "(With) significant improvements in yields and prime slots at key airports, we are confident of a strong performance for FY2020," Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh said in a statement. SpiceJet said it added 25 aircraft in April and May. Jet started grounding planes at the beginning of the year and was eventually forced to stop operations in April. On Tuesday, SpiceJet said it would add 35 aircraft to its fleet by fiscal 2020 and that average fare rose 11% and capacity increased 21% in the reported quarter. Standalone net profit, excluding earnings of units SpiceJet Merchandise, SpiceJet Technic and Canvin Real Estate, reached 562.9 million rupees ($8.08 million) in January-March, from 461.5 million rupees in the same period a year earlier. ($1 = 69.6930 rupees) (Reporting by Krishna V Kurup in Bengaluru; Editing by Christopher Cushing and Subhranshu Sahu) Sri Lanka Tuesday announced it is entering into partnership with India and Japan to develop a deep-sea container terminal next to a controversial $500-million Chinese-run container jetty in Colombo harbour. The state-run Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) said a memorandum of cooperation (MOC) had been signed between the three countries to develop what is known as the East Terminal of the Colombo port. The SLPA said it will retain 51 percent of the company that will run the terminal while the rest will be owned by India and Japan. It gave no further details of the costs of the project. "The MOC demonstrates Sri Lankas ability to maintain and further it's national interests while cooperating with international partners," the SLPA said in a statement. China owns 85 percent of the adjoining terminal known as the Colombo International Container Terminal (CICT) which was commissioned in 2013. The SLPA owns the remaining 15 percent of the company. The SLPA said 70 percent of transhipment containers handled by Colombo was Indian export-import cargo. In December 2017, Sri Lanka, unable to repay a huge Chinese loan, handed over another deep sea port in the south of the island to a Beijing company in a deal that raised concerns at home and abroad. The $1.12 billion deal first announced in July 2016 allowed a Chinese state company to take over the Hambantota port, which straddles the world's busiest east-west shipping route, on a 99-year lease. India and the United States are both concerned that a Chinese foothold at Hambantota, 240 kilometres (150 miles) south of Colombo, could give it a military naval advantage in the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka has insisted that its ports will not be used for any military purposes. However, India lodged protests when Chinese submarines made unannounced visits to the Chinese-managed CICT in 2014. Since then, Sri Lanka has not given permission for further submarine calls. More than two years after U.S. President Donald Trump walked away from a regional Asia-Pacific trade agreement, the U.S. and Japan the worlds largest and third-largest economies are negotiating a deal of their own. Both sides insist they want a win-win outcome, but as evidenced by the Trump administrations tariff battles with China and the European Union, theres potential for serious economic damage if things go bad. 1. What are the two sides after? Trump abhors trade deficits and is determined to reduce the one the U.S. has with Japan, particularly by gaining more access for exports by American farmers and automakers. Japan, under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, wants to head off Trumps threatened penalties on autos and auto parts, which could tip it into recession, as well as any currency clause directed at the Japanese yen. 2. Why are these talks happening? After Trump pulled the U.S. out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the 11 other members (including Japan) went ahead without the U.S. That deal, which entered into force Dec. 30, and another that Abe struck in 2018 with the EU have left U.S. farmers at risk of losing market share to rivals with lower tariffs. (American growers accounted for about a quarter of Japans agricultural imports in 2017.) Abe dragged his heels in the hope that the U.S. would rejoin the TPP, but agreed to direct talks in September after Trump hit Japans steel and aluminum exports with tariffs and threatened to do the same on all imported cars, including those made in Japan. 3. How are they going? Both sides have said they want to move quickly but as with most trade talks, the end date is murky. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Japans Economy Minister Toshimitsu Motegi were said to have agreed on the broad scope, but Motegi has repeatedly said that any deal will have to be comprehensive, signaling that Japan wont agree to anything piecemeal. The two sides also are to hold discussions on digital trade, but other types of services are off the table, at least for now. Japan has elections set for July and Trump has acknowledged nothing will be finalized before that. Story continues 4. What about the currency clause? U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has said the U.S. wants any trade deal with Japan to include language that would prevent competitive devaluations currency moves designed specifically to boost exports. The U.S. made sure similar language was included in its revised trade deal with Mexico and Canada, and that prohibition is expected to be part of any U.S.-China deal. Japan, though, wants to avoid any clause that might tie the Bank of Japans hands. It has argued that currency moves and export volumes no longer correlate. Motegi has said that any discussion on currency is between Japans Finance Ministry and the U.S. Treasury Department, under an agreement reached in February 2017. 5. How big is the U.S. trade deficit with Japan? In goods trade, it was 6.5 trillion yen ($59 billion) in 2018. That was down 8.1% compared with 2017, the result of weaker car exports from Japan and more imports of aircraft and oil, according to Japans Finance Ministry. Autos and auto parts make up the biggest portion of that deficit, and Trumps trade policy is particularly focused on that sector. The U.S. actually has a trade surplus for services, which has slowly been increasing over the past decade. 6. Whats motivating Japan? It wants to head off anything that would dent its already lackluster economy, which has been flirting with a technical recession even before a planned increase in the national sales tax in October. Goldman Sachs estimates that with new tariffs on auto exports of just 10% (Trump has threatened 25%), Japans gross domestic product could be cut by more than 0.2 percentage point. But it will be politically difficult for Abe to make any concessions, particularly on agriculture, ahead of the upper-house elections set for July. 7. What about the U.S.? A deal with Japan became more urgent after its talks with China broke down in May and the tariff war escalated. Trump put off imposing tariffs on imported cars for six months, seeking to use that as leverage in talks with Japan. Already in March, Lighthizer told U.S. lawmakers that hes aware of the precarious situation American farmers are in, and that winning greater market access for agriculture products in Japan is a high priority. Farm states were an important bloc of support for Trump in 2016, and with a presidential election in 2020, Trump will face questions on his achievements in rebalancing Americas trade relationships, a major campaign pledge. For now, the report card is full of incompletes: Theres resistance in the U.S. Congress to ratifying the United States-Mexico-Canada agreement. Talks with the EU havent gotten far. The trade war in China, meantime, has hurt both sides. More must-read stories from Fortune: Chinas running out of U.S. goods to tariff, but it has other trade war weapons to unleash How Chinas top-down political system holds it back Too many companies are paying too much for stock buybacks How to invest during a trade war Listen to our new audio briefing, Fortune 500 Daily Dont miss the daily Term Sheet, Fortunes newsletter on deals and dealmakers. In this article: The 'Stranger Things' star has landed his debut fashion gig [Photo: Saint Laurent] Actor Finn Wolfhard has become the latest Stranger Things star to dip their toe into the fashion industry after landing an impressive Saint Laurent campaign. On Monday, the French fashion house announced that the 16-year-old is the new face of its mens AW19 collection via Instagram. In a series of monochrome images shot by legendary photographer David Sims, the Canadian actor looks exceptionally cool in a skinny mod-inspired suit, leather jacket and retro sunglasses. Fans were quick to praise the campaign with many comparing Wolfhard to a young Bob Dylan. Hes a baby Bob Dylan, one social media user wrote. Another agreed, adding: Bob Dylan vibes! Bless this photoshoot and collaboration! His debut shot at modelling certainly deserves all the applause emojis he can garner with the star following in the sartorial footsteps of buzzy names including rapper ASAP Rocky and fellow actor Keanu Reeves. But he isnt the only Netflix name to swap the silver screen for a magazine editorial. Co-star Millie Bobby Brown has long been hailed a fashion muse after making her modelling debut in a Calvin Klein campaign back in February 2018. READ MORE: Fashions It crowd is getting younger The 15-year-old has since become a front row fixture often photographed rubbing shoulders with the likes of Winona Ryder, Brooke Shields and Paris Jackson. In July 2018, the actress announced via Instagram that she has joined the Moncler family. The latest Saint Laurent news further proves that the fashion It crowd is getting younger with a number of Netflix starlets securing major deals. Story continues At the AW19 collections, Fendi targeted Generation Z with Stranger Things star Noah Schnapp, 14, perched front row alongside 18-year-old Kiernan Shipka of Chilling Adventures of Sabrina fame. So whos up next? Watch the latest videos from Yahoo Style UK: Khartoum (AFP) - Thousands of workers went on strike across Sudan on Tuesday, leaving air and bus passengers stranded as protesters piled pressure on the military to hand power to a civilian administration. The leaders of an umbrella protest movement remain at loggerheads with army generals who ousted president Omar al-Bashir last month over whether a civilian or a soldier should head a new governing body. The body is expected to install a transitional civilian government, which in turn would prepare for the first post-Bashir elections after a three-year interim period. In a bid to step up pressure on the ruling military council, the Alliance for Freedom and Change protest movement called for a two-day general strike starting on Tuesday. Thousands of employees of government offices, banks, private sector firms and at the Red Sea hub of Port Sudan joined the strike, insisting that only civilian rule can lift Sudan out of its political crisis. "This strike is the first step. If our demands are not heard we will go for comprehensive civil disobedience," said banker Yousef Mohamed, as he chanted slogans along with his colleagues outside his bank in Khartoum. "We tried a military government but it didn't work for us in Sudan." AFP correspondents who toured parts of the capital saw groups of employees taking part in the strike and protesting at several squares. Traffic in Khartoum was normal but travellers in private vehicles whistled and clapped to express their solidarity with those participating in the strike. The Sudanese Professionals Association, the group that initially launched the campaign against Bashir, said troops were trying to "force the staff" of the central bank to work. An AFP correspondent saw troops and members of paramilitary Rapid Support Force surrounding the central bank building. - Passengers stranded - Hundreds of workers in Port Sudan -- a vital economic hub -- also joined the strike. Story continues "We want civilian rule to get rid of the corruption in Port Sudan," said Osman Tahir, a worker at the dock. Hundreds of passengers were stranded at Khartoum airport as scores of employees at the facility went on strike, chanting "civilian rule, civilian rule," an AFP correspondent there said. Many employees carried banners or wore badges that read "we are on strike". Sudanese airlines Badr, Tarco and Nova suspended flights on Tuesday. EgyptAir cancelled flights during the day to Khartoum, while flydubai said it was "monitoring" the situation. Passengers were also stranded at Khartoum's main bus terminal after employees observed the strike. Many carried banners reading: "Today, tomorrow no buses as we are on strike". "I have to travel to Gadaref to be with my family for Eid, but I'm not angry as I understand the reason for the strike," traveller Fatima Omar said as she waited with her children at the bus terminal. Protest leader Siddiq Farukh told AFP that the strike was a message to the world that Sudanese people "don't want the power to be with the military". But prominent protester, Wajdi Saleh, said late Monday "we hope that we reach an agreement with the military council and won't have to go on an indefinite strike". Protest leaders had said medics, lawyers, prosecutors, employees in the electricity and water sectors, public transport, railways, telecommunication and civil aviation were set to take part in the strike. - 'Part of former regime' - Ahead of the walkout a key member of the protest movement, the National Umma Party, rejected the plan saying there had been no unanimous decision for a strike. Umma and its chief Sadiq al-Mahdi have for decades been the main opponents of Bashir's iron-fisted rule, and threw their weight behind the protest movement after nationwide demonstrations erupted in December. Protester Hazar Mustafa said the generals could not be trusted. "We see the military council as part of the former regime. We don't see it upholding any rights and building a just state," she said. The army ousted Bashir in April after months of protests against his autocratic rule, including a sit-in by tens of thousands of protesters outside Khartoum's military headquarters. But the generals, backed by key regional powers, have resisted calls from protesters and Western governments to step down. Thousands of protesters remain camped outside army headquarters. Before suspending talks last week, the two sides had agreed on several key issues, including the three-year transition and the creation of a 300-member parliament, with two thirds of lawmakers coming from the protesters' umbrella group. But negotiations stalled as protest leaders insisted a civilian must head the new sovereign council, with civilians making up the majority of its members -- proposals rejected by the military. The Supreme Court on Tuesday declined to hear a challenge to a Pennsylvania school districts policy allowing some transgender students to use the bathroom of the gender they identify with, clearing the way for the law to go into effect. Six student plaintiffs claimed that the policy set by Boyertown Area School District in central Pennsylvania amounted to sexual harassment and violated their privacy rights. Forcing a teenager to share a locker room or restroom with a member of the opposite sex can cause embarrassment and distress, their lawyers wrote in court documents. The districts policy was a drastic change from the way locker rooms and restrooms have been regulated for the entire history of public-school systems. The school districts attorneys had argued that the new policy merely allowed transgender students the same rights as the rest of the student population. The district believes that transgender students should have the right to use school bathroom and locker facilities on the same basis as non-transgender students, its attorneys wrote. On Tuesday, the Court let stand a ruling by the Philadelphia-based Third U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which found that the policy helped tamp down discrimination against transgender students. Boyertowns schools chose to be inclusive and welcoming of transgender students in 2016, a decision the courts have affirmed again and again, the American Civil Liberties Union said in a statement after the Courts ruling was announced. This lawsuit sought to reverse that hard-won progress by excluding transgender students from school facilities that other students use. That would have increased the stigma and discrimination that transgender students already face. More from National Review The Supreme Court will hear a case concerning a cross-border shooting by a Border Patrol agent that killed a 15-year-old Mexican boy. WASHINGTON The Supreme Court agreed Tuesday to consider for the second time whether a U.S. Border Patrol agent is liable for the cross-border shooting death of a 15-year-old Mexican boy. The justices granted the case, first heard in 2017, after two federal appeals courts issued conflicting rulings. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit dismissed the claim for damages against the agent, but a Ninth Circuit appeals court came to the opposite conclusion in another cross-border shooting. It will be the second Supreme Court go-round for Border Patrol agent Jesus Mesa and the family of Sergio Adrian Hernandez Guereca following the 2010 incident, in which Mesa fired from El Paso, Texas, killing the boy with a single shot to the head. The family's lawyers say Hernandez was playing with three friends in the 33-foot-wide concrete culvert separating El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. Mesa's lawyers say he responded to a group of suspected illegal aliens throwing rocks at Border Patrol agents. Cellphone videos appeared to show that Hernandez was hiding beneath a train trestle when he was shot in the head. At issue is a Supreme Court precedent that allows private individuals to sue federal employees for constitutional violations in specific instances. In this case, it depends on whether Hernandez lacks constitutional protection because he was in Mexico, as lower courts have consistently ruled, or whether Mesa is liable because the gun was fired in the United States. A Mexican court could have tried Mesa in that country, but the U.S. government refused extradition. "The deadly practice of agents standing in the United States and shooting innocent kids across the border must be stopped," the family's attorney, Bob Hilliard, said in a statement Tuesday. "Its never right. Its never constitutional. This is one of those times when morality and our U.S. Constitution line up perfectly. The first time the case was heard, the high court called it "a disturbing incident resulting in a heartbreaking loss of life" but sent it back to the Fifth Circuit for further review. The case had been watched closely in part because of President Donald Trump's fledgling effort to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. Story continues Associate Justice Clarence Thomas dissented from the 2017 ruling and said Mesa should be cleared. Associate Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen Breyer also dissented, arguing the boy should be covered by the Fourth Amendment's guarantee of security. In a related case decided in 2017, the high court ruled that U.S. officials cannot be held personally liable for the detention and harsh treatment of illegal immigrants in the days after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. The justices then told the appeals court to take that into consideration in the cross-border case. A 2013 investigation by The Arizona Republic, part of the USA TODAY Network, found that Border Patrol agents and Customs and Border Protection officers killed at least 42 people including at least 13 Americans in an eight-year period. At the time, none of the agents or officers responsible were publicly known to have faced consequences. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Supreme Court will take second look at cross-border shooting of Mexican boy by U.S. Border Patrol agent The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld part of a controversial Indiana law that requires abortion clinics to bury or cremate fetal remains. Vice President Mike Pence signed the lawwhich faced legal challenges from the ACLU and Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentuckyas governor of Indiana in 2016. It was blocked last year in the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, with Judge William Bauer arguing that barring people from receiving abortion care in certain cases would be a violation of their constitutional rights. The law also banned people from receiving abortions solely because of fetal characteristics, including sex and disability. But the Supreme Court struck down an appeal to reinstate that part of the restrictive law. In its three-page opinion, the court as a whole argued the laws fetal-remains provision does not implicate our cases applying the undue burden test to abortion regulations. The court added that Indiana has a legitimate interest in proper disposal of fetal remains, which have long been disposed of as medical waste. While some people find comfort in fetal burial programs, forcing everyone who terminates a pregnancy or miscarries to bury or cremate fetal remains can be invasive and traumatizing, Rewire reported in 2017. But then-Governor Pence saw the measure as a way to grant personhood to a fetus. Pence said the law would ensure the dignified final treatment of the unborn. Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor both publicly disagreed with the high courts ruling. Ginsburg wrote in a dissenting opinion that the case would implicate a persons right to choose to have an abortion before viability and to obtain it without undue interference from the state. On the other hand, one of the courts more conservative judges, Clarence Thomas argued in writing that abortions based on fetal characteristics could turn the procedure into a tool of eugenic manipulation. Story continues But abortion rights advocates say a persons reasons for choosing to have an abortion are personal and should not be of concern to anyone besides the patient. Anti-abortion activists have been pushing an aggressive ground game this year, following conservative judge Brett Kavanaughs appointment to the Supreme Court. Conservative lawmakers have introduced and signed into law a number of restrictive, anti-abortion bills in recent months. The efforts are part of a broader strategy to get a case before the Supreme Court that would challenge the landmark Roe v. Wade decision, which legalized abortion in 1973. With Tuesdays ruling, the high courtwhich split, 7-2, in its mixed decision on Indianas abortion lawmight have signaled to individual states that its receptive to further state-level restrictions. But the Supreme Court has not yet heard a direct challenge to abortion rights at the federal level. The American Civil Liberties Union noted that, with these measures, politicians are lining up to decimate access to abortion whether they are introducing total bans on the procedure or laws designed to shut down clinics and criminalize providers. We will continue our fight to ensure that every person who needs an abortion can get onewithout shame, stigma, or unnecessary obstacles, the ACLU said. More must-read stories from Fortune: How civil rights and liberties activists are taking on Capitol Hill What exactly is ranked-choice voting? 21 abortion restrictions have already been enacted in 2019 Should Title VII civil rights protections include the LGBTQ community? Human Trafficking is an epidemic in the U.S. Its also big business STOCKHOLM, May 28 (Reuters) - A Swedish court has rejected a request to postpone a planned hearing to rule on the detention in absentia of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged rape, a defense lawyer for Assange said on Tuesday The Swedish prosecutor heading an investigation into the rape allegation against Assange, which he denies, this month filed a request with a local court for him to be detained with a hearing scheduled for June 3. Swedish defense lawyer Per Samuelson told Reuters he had visited Assange in British custody on Friday after which he had sought to have the hearing postponed. "One of the reasons is that Assange's health situation on Friday was such that it was not possible to conduct a normal conversation with him," Samuelson said. "I meant that it should be postponed until I had time to meet again and go through the issues in peace and quiet. I suggested no specific date and meant it should be postponed until everything was ready, but the district court has now decided that this won't happen." The Uppsala district court, where the hearing is due to take place, was not immediately available for comment. A prosecutors' office spokesman declined to comment. Sweden reopened the rape investigation in early May. It was begun in 2010 but dropped in 2017 years after Assange took refuge in Ecuador's London embassy. Assange was arrested in London last month after spending seven years inside the embassy. If the court order is granted, it would be the first step in a process to have Assange extradited from Britain, where he is serving a 50-week sentence for skipping bail. U.S. authorities are separately seeking to extradite Assange on charges relating to the public release by Wikileaks of a cache of secret documents and last week unveiled 17 new criminal charges against him, including espionage. The British courts will have to rule on the two extradition requests, with the home secretary having the final say on which one takes precedence. (Reporting by Johan Ahlander and Anna Ringstrom; writing by Niklas Pollard, editing by Ed Osmond) Maalula (Syria) (AFP) - Hunched over a thick book, George Zaarour uses a magnifying glass to decipher Aramaic script -- the biblical language of Jesus that is starting to disappear from everyday use in his village. The 62-year-old is one of the last in Syria to specialise in the ancient language, which has survived for 2,000 years in the village of Maalula -- one of the world's oldest Christian settlements. In the mountain village, Aramaic was once widely used, but today few people still speak the tongue. "Aramaic is in danger," Zaarour said. "If things continue like this, the language will disappear within five to 10 years." Zaarour collects books and encyclopedias on Aramaic in his small shop, where he sells religious icons, crucifixes and even household products. He spends his days studying and translating this ancient Semitic language, which was widespread in the Middle East at the beginning of the Christian era and whose origins date back to the 10th century BC. Today, "80 percent of Maalula's inhabitants don't speak Aramaic, and the remaining 20 percent are over 60 years old", said the expert. Etched out in the cliff face, and full of churches, convents and monasteries, Maalula is considered a symbol of Christian presence in the Damascus region. Pilgrims from the entire world once visited the village to see its religious buildings, and to hear Aramaic spoken on the streets. But the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011 changed everything. Rebels and jihadists linked to Al-Qaeda seized Maalula in late 2013, forcing most of its Christian inhabitants to flee. Regime forces recaptured it in April 2014, seven months after the insurgents first entered the village. But two-thirds of its inhabitants have yet to return. - 'Last people on earth'- Many of Maalula's residents have found refuge in and around Damascus, which is about 55 kilometres (35 miles) away, or even abroad. "The war generation was born outside Maalula, in Damascus or in other areas, and they learned Arabic first," Zaarour said. Story continues An author of some 30 books on the Aramaic language and its history in Maalula, Zaarour is well-known in Syrian academic circles. He regularly supervises student dissertations in Damascus. In 2006, he helped set up a centre in Maalula to teach Aramaic, but it closed after war broke out. The village's mayor, Elias Thaalab, hailed Zaarour as a source of true local pride. "I think George Zaarour must be the only teacher and specialist of the Aramaic language in Syria," said the 80-year-old, leaning on his cane. "Some young teachers are trying to learn the language, but Mr Zaarour is the only one who knows the language in depth," he added. Preserving the language is of utmost importance, he says. "For more than 2,000 years, we have kept the language of Christ in our hearts," he said. "We are among the last people on earth who have the honour of mastering it." But of the more than 6,000 people who lived in the village before the conflict, only 2,000 have returned, he said. Maalula, which means "entrance" in Aramaic, is the most famous of three villages around Damascus where the language is still used. In Syria's northeast, Syriac, which is derived from Aramaic, is also still spoken. Other Aramaic dialects that have evolved from the original historic version of the language are also used across the Middle East today, especially in Turkey and northern Iraq, according to Jean-Baptiste Yon, an ancient language specialist. - 'From father to son'- In Maalula today, the vast majority of houses remain empty, only chirping birds interrupting the calm. The village has fared better than other parts of Syria, but it has not been spared completely. Several churches and monasteries were looted or damaged by artillery fire, and religious icons destroyed or stolen. Al-Nusra jihadists kidnapped 13 nuns from the village in December 2013, only releasing them three months later. Today, in the monastery of Saint Sergius and Bacchus, gilded candles stand once again on the chapel's white marble altar. But in the village's only kindergarten, numbers have plummeted since the war started. The number of students enrolled has dropped from more than 100 in 2010 to less than 30 in 2019, the administration says. To ensure their ancient language survives, its pupils have an Aramaic class every day. In a classroom with white and pink walls, children aged five to six sit behind wooden desks reciting Aramaic poems, under the watchful eye of their teacher, Antoinette Mokh. "Aramaic in Maalula is inherited from generation to generation, from father to son... It's the language of the home," she said. "But these children were born outside Maalula during the years of exile." At age 64, she has been teaching for over a quarter of a century. But "I cannot give up my job and retire," she said. "There will be no replacement." Taiwan displayed how its fighter jets can land, refuel and rearm on the island's highways Tuesday as part of its largest annual exercise simulating defence against a Chinese invasion. The self-ruled island has long lived under the threat of invasion by Beijing which views Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to take it back by force if necessary. Chinese military and diplomatic pressure has been significantly ramped up since the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen, whose government refuses to acknowledge that the self-ruled island is part of "one China". This week Taiwan's 23 million inhabitants have witnessed stark reminders of the military threats they face. On Monday the streets were briefly deserted as authorities carried out an annual missile drill across the island's north, with text messages sent to every mobile phone and air raid sirens wailing. The following day 1,600 soldiers were mobilised in central Taiwan as aircraft practised landing on a closed highway for the annual "Han Kuang" (Han Glory) war games. Three jet fighters as well as an early warning aircraft also practised refuelling and loading missiles and other ammunition before taking off again. Taiwan would be massively outgunned in terms of troop numbers and firepower in any war with China but it has developed sophisticated asymmetric tactics to hold out for as long as possible and make any invasion of the island hugely costly for Beijing. "There are only a few military air bases which would become the prime targets in the event of an attack. The highway drill is necessary as highway strips would be our priority choice if the runways are damaged during a war," air force Colonel Shu Kuo-mao told reporters. Inspecting the drill on Tuesday, president Tsai referred to the marked uptick in Chinese naval and airforce patrols in recent months which have rattled nerves. "They have caused a certain degree of threat to regional peace and stability. We should maintain high vigilance," she said. Story continues The manoeuvres in Taiwan come after the US, Japan, South Korea and Australia kicked off operation "Pacific Vanguard" near Guam, bringing together more than 3,000 sailors from the four countries last week. Beijing has also been angered by warming relations between Taipei and Washington since Tsai came to power. On Monday, Beijing reacted frostily to photos showing a rare meeting between uniformed Taiwanese officers and their US counterparts earlier this month. Last week, China lodged a protest with Washington after two US warships sailed through the Taiwan Strait. MOSCOW (Reuters) - A Taliban delegation met a group of senior Afghan politicians in Moscow on Tuesday, insisting that international forces must leave Afghanistan for peace to be agreed, amid gathering diplomatic efforts to end the 18-year war. The delegation, led by chief Taliban negotiator Mullah Baradar Akhund, met politicians, including senior regional leaders and candidates challenging President Ashraf Ghani in this year's presidential election. "The Islamic Emirate wants peace but the first step is to remove obstacles to peace and end the occupation of Afghanistan," Baradar said, appearing openly on television in what appeared to be a calculated move to establish his legitimacy as one of the main public faces of the Taliban. The Taliban, ousted by U.S.-backed forces weeks after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the United States, refer to themselves as the Islamic Emirate. Mohammad Karim Khalili, head of the High Peace Council, the main body charged with pursuing peace efforts, said dozens of people were being killed in fighting every day and it was time for a "dignified and just mechanism" to end the bloodshed. Taliban officials have been talking to U.S. diplomats for months about the terms of a withdrawal of more than 23,000 U.S. and NATO coalition troops from Afghanistan and have reached a draft agreement on some issues but no new date for the next round of talks has been set and many obstacles remain. Chief among these is the Taliban refusal to deal directly with President Ashraf Ghani's Western-backed government in Kabul, which they dismiss as a "puppet" regime. Meetings between the Taliban delegation and political figures not formally associated with the government have been seen as a way of preparing the way for full negotiations later. But those contacts are regarded with deep suspicion by many Afghan officials who see them as undermining the legitimacy of the government while reinforcing the position of the Taliban. The group of politicians attending the ceremony to mark the centenary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and Russia included many of Ghani's most powerful political adversaries. Atta Mohammad Noor, the former governor of the northern province of Balkh and a leader of the mainly ethnic Tajik Jamiat-e Islami party, said it was in the interests of all sides to establish a good understanding. "We want to have good relations with the Taliban and we expect peace from them," he said. However, the presidential election in September is expected to put Afghanistan's political system under heavy strain following bitterly disputed parliamentary elections last year that drew widespread accusations of cheating. (Reporting by Orooj Hakimi; Writing by James Mackenzie; Editing by Robert Birsel) 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). We'll use ROE to examine Tata Elxsi Limited (NSE:TATAELXSI), by way of a worked example. Tata Elxsi has a ROE of 31%, based on the last twelve months. That means that for every 1 worth of shareholders' equity, it generated 0.31 in profit. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Check out our latest analysis for Tata Elxsi How Do You Calculate Return On Equity? The formula for return on equity is: Return on Equity = Net Profit Shareholders' Equity Or for Tata Elxsi: 31% = 2.9b 9.4b (Based on the trailing twelve months to March 2019.) Most know that net profit is the total earnings after all expenses, but the concept of shareholders' equity is a little more complicated. It is the capital paid in by shareholders, plus any retained earnings. You can calculate shareholders' equity by subtracting the company's total liabilities from its total assets. What Does ROE Signify? ROE looks at the amount a company earns relative to the money it has kept within the business. The 'return' is the yearly profit. That means that the higher the ROE, the more profitable the company is. So, all else being equal, a high ROE is better than a low one. Clearly, then, one can use ROE to compare different companies. Does Tata Elxsi Have A Good ROE? 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. Pleasingly, Tata Elxsi has a superior ROE than the average (11%) company in the Software industry. NSEI:TATAELXSI Past Revenue and Net Income, May 28th 2019 That's clearly a positive. In my book, a high ROE almost always warrants a closer look. For example, I often check if insiders have been buying shares . Story continues How Does Debt Impact ROE? Companies usually need to invest money to grow their profits. That cash can come from retained earnings, issuing new shares (equity), or debt. In the case of the first and second options, the ROE will reflect this use of cash, for growth. In the latter case, the debt required for growth will boost returns, but will not impact the shareholders' equity. Thus the use of debt can improve ROE, albeit along with extra risk in the case of stormy weather, metaphorically speaking. Tata Elxsi's Debt And Its 31% ROE Tata Elxsi is free of net debt, which is a positive for shareholders. Its impressive ROE suggests it is a high quality business, but it's even better to have achieved that without leverage. After all, with cash on the balance sheet, a company has a lot more optionality in good times and bad. But It's Just One Metric Return on equity is a useful indicator of the ability of a business to generate profits and return them to shareholders. A company that can achieve a high return on equity without debt could be considered a high quality business. If two companies have the same ROE, then I would generally prefer the one with less debt. But ROE is just one piece of a bigger puzzle, since high quality businesses often trade on high multiples of earnings. 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 check this FREE visualization of analyst forecasts for the company. 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. A teenager has been arrested after footage of a boy punching a cat in the head went viral. The footage, which appears to have been taken using video app Snapchat, showed a boy petting the cat on a wall before punching it. The cat then falls from the wall. The video is captioned Geezer and was filmed in Portsmouth. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Jeremy Hunt says no deal political suicide for Tories Albino panda caught on camera for first time Spice Girls fans demand refund over diabolical sound A spokesman for Hampshire Police said: We are investigating an incident in Portsmouth in which a cat was hit in the face. We received a report of the incident and are also aware of a related video that has been circulated widely on social media. An investigation is underway to establish the exact circumstances of what happened. We have also been in touch with the RSPCA. Our officers arrested a 15-year-old boy on suspicion of an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. An RSPCA spokeswoman confirmed the charity was aware. She said: We are aware of the clip being circulated on social media and encourage anyone with information to contact us on 0300 1234 999. London (AFP) - The race to replace Theresa May as British prime minister in a contest due to end in July has 10 declared contenders so far. Here is a look at the hopefuls in the Conservative Party leadership battle and their stances on Brexit, with Britain currently due to leave the EU on October 31: - Warm to no-deal - -- ESTHER McVEY The 51-year-old Brexit supporter and former television presenter, McVey resigned as work and pensions secretary last year over Brexit compromises. A blue-collar Conservative, she wants a clean break with Brussels. - Open to no-deal in October - -- BORIS JOHNSON A former mayor of London, Johnson says he would get Britain out of the European Union, "deal or no deal". A key figure in the 2016 Brexit campaign, he served as foreign minister afterwards but resigned after falling out with May over the government's Brexit strategy. Charismatic and popular with grassroots Conservatives, the 54-year-old has maintained his public profile by writing a weekly column in The Daily Telegraph newspaper. -- DOMINIC RAAB An ardent eurosceptic with a black belt in karate, the 45-year-old former Brexit minister resigned in protest at the Brexit deal struck with the EU by May. He says Britain should be ready to walk away from the EU without an agreement while still trying to negotiate a better deal than the one May signed. Britain must "calmly demonstrate unflinching resolve to leave when the extension to negotiations ends in October -- at the latest", Raab wrote in The Mail on Sunday newspaper. -- ANDREA LEADSOM Leadsom stole a march on her rivals by quitting her position as leader of the House of Commons last week, hastening the prime minister's demise and staking out her pro-Brexit credentials. The 56-year-old got down to the final two in the 2016 leadership race, but pulled out before the decision was handed over to party members, with whom she was popular, after coming under fire for saying that being a mother would give her an advantage as prime minister over the childless May. Story continues - No to no-deal in October - -- JEREMY HUNT The foreign secretary supported remaining in the European Union in the 2016 referendum but has switched since then. A former businessman who speaks fluent Japanese, he is a resilient politician, having headed up the National Health Service for six years during a funding crisis. The 52-year-old has said he will push hard for a new deal with Brussels without taking the possibility of a no-deal outcome off the table. - Against no-deal - -- MATT HANCOCK The 40-year-old health secretary is one the party's rising stars, a moderate who is widely seen as competent at his job and skillful at handling the media. He is one of several ministers who opposed Brexit during the 2016 referendum before switching sides and defending the withdrawal agreement May struck with the EU. He entered government in 2013 and has moved up the ladder quickly. -- RORY STEWART The international development secretary, 46, is a former Foreign Office official who served in the coalition administration in Iraq following the US-led invasion in 2003. Says no-deal policy would be "damaging". - Yet to say - -- MICHAEL GOVE Brexit campaigner Gove initially supported Johnson's leadership bid in 2016. His last-minute decision to enter the race himself caused both men to lose out to May. After a year in the political wilderness, he was appointed environment minister in 2017 and has stayed in the headlines with a series of eco-friendly policy announcements. The cerebral 51-year-old is among the most ardent eurosceptics left in May's government but is seen as a possible unifying figure between the two wings of the party. -- SAJID JAVID A former investment banker and the son of a Pakistani immigrant bus driver, Javid, 49, wants to be the face of a modern, multicultural and meritocratic Britain. On the economically liberal wing of the Conservative Party, Javid voted for Britain to stay in the EU in 2016 but has since become an advocate of Brexit. -- KIT MALTHOUSE A former deputy London mayor to Johnson, the 52-year-old is running as a Brexit unity candidate, having headed up the so-called Malthouse Compromise strategy designed to keep the party together and get a deal over the line. Nicole Kidman and Ansel Elgort in the first look at The Goldfinch - click to enlarge. (Warner Bros.) How do you turn a beloved book thats more than 800 pages long and won the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction into a coherent, enjoyable movie? And one that the novels passionate fans will appreciate, while also enticing moviegoers unaware of the source material? That was the challenge facing director John Crowley, who took on the daunting task of adapting Donna Tartts award-winning bestseller The Goldfinch for the big screen (in cinemas 27 September). The initial results can be seen in the first trailer, released tomorrow, which gives audiences a glimpse of Ansel Elgort as Theo, a young man who survives a terrorist attack in an art gallery which kills his mother and goes on a long journey of self-discovery, friendship, lies and deception (trust us, this guy is complicated). Ive never had to do publicity for a trailer, laughs Crowley, whose work includes Boy A, Martin McDonaghs stage plays and 2015s Oscar-nominated literary adaptation Brooklyn. Read more: Things you never knew about Aladdin The initial decision to not follow the linear structure of the book, rather to intercut a little more cinematically, a little more impressionistically, that was the thing that liberated us and allowed us to deal with time passing and leave out chunks of the book which though beautiful and wonderful in their intentional setting were perhaps less dramatic, he explains. Unlike some authors who might have an opinion about how her work is adapted, Tartt didnt seem to mind. In fact, Crowley only met her once before filming started and she never came to set. She was busy, he laughs. Director John Crowley poses for a portrait to promote the film, "Brooklyn" during the Sundance Film Festival, 2015. (Photo by Victoria Will/Invision/AP) The end result is a focus on two specific timeframes one when Theo is 14, loses his mother and is sent to live with another family (led by matriarch Nicole Kidman), before being whisked away to Las Vegas by his feckless father. The action then jumps forward a little over a decade, when, as Crowley puts it, the tissue of lies that his life has become is beginning to unravel or is beginning to be put under pressure and his big secret is about to be revealed. Story continues They were the two most dramatic sequences of the story overall that we were able to focus on. For anyone not familiar with the story, a short synopsis is pretty much impossible. In the carnage following the explosion, Theo steals a famous painting, the titular Goldfinch. This dishonest moment clouds his life, as he falls in and out of love, gets embroiled in the world of antiques fraud, becomes addicted to drugs and perhaps most importantly, befriends a young tearaway called Boris (played as an adult in the movie by Dunkirk star Aneurin Barnard and as a child by Stranger Things Finn Wolfhard). The Goldfinch earned rave reviews when it was released in 2014. (Abacus/Amazon) In fact, its this relationship which has caused some of the most fervent discussions amongst fans, some of whom argue the pair have a sexual connection. Crowley is clear where the film version stands. I think its reductive to say its a homosexual relationship, its not quite what shes written, he says. What it is is youve got these kids who arent quite formed who are a bit messy and there are a lot of drink and drugs. He points to the fact theyre not attracted to each other when they meet again as adults. US writer Donna Tartt reads her new novel "The Goldfinch" at the world's book launch in Amsterdam, on September 22, 2013. (BAS CZERWINSKI/AFP/Getty Images) The big, transformative emotion in this book and maybe in a lot of Donnas other writing is friendship, he continues. I dont mean that in a sentimental way, I mean that in a complex way. I think its a mistake to confuse that with a sexual element and its certainly not what we leant into. What we leant into was the bond that happens between these two slightly lost kids in this strange suburban environment. Casting a sprawling story like this is a particular challenge, especially when you have two time periods featuring the hero and he has to be played by two different actors. Crowley chose not to pick two lookalike performers who would mimic each other and in the end plumped for Oakes Fegley (Petes Dragon) as young Theo and The Fault in Our Stars Ansel Elgort for the adult role. What youre like when youre 14 is not what youre like when youre 25. That was very interesting to me, what the passage of time does to people, says Crowley. Ansel had a wonderful held-in quality about him which was slightly mysterious. Hes a really interesting young actor I loved him in Baby Driver. Ansel Elgort attends The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute benefit gala Monday, May 7, 2018, in New York. (Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP) And then, he adds, I had great hair and make-up departments who worked incredibly hard to make the cosmetic elements truthful and real and make them feel like one would be the outgrowth of the other one. Because of its source material and the presence of supporting actors like Kidman and Jeffrey Wright, the movie is bound to create awards chatter, something Crowley is used to after Brooklyn, which was nominated for three Oscars and won the BAFTA for Best British Film. Read more: Arnie schools sexist Terminator fan Youre aware of it because people make you aware of it, admits the director. Nothing in what youre asking me informs the making of it or is really relevant to how I want it to play in front of audiences. If any of that stuff happens, I have no problem with it! For me, I love the book and really wanted to see if there was a way of finding an exciting cinematic form that would express the essence of it and then sharing it. LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Actors Jeffrey Wright (L) and Nicole Kidman attend the 69th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at Microsoft Theater on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage) And is he worried about message boards laden with irate fans accusing him of ruining their beloved tale or cutting their favourite characters? I think we didnt do so bad on the scoreboard of beloved characters in there so Im optimistic that fans of the book wont be outraged that we have done anything wrong, he says. You sort of have to lean in to what you loved about the book as a reader and carry that with you and hope thats something that other people will respond to as well You have to try and make the film. The Goldfinch is coming to cinemas on 27 September, 2019. The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, ordered that a Kenyan woman, Angela Gathangu, be remanded in custody of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), over alleged importation of 6.560 kg of cocaine. NAN reports that the NDLEA arraigned Gathangu, 33, on one count of importing 6.560kg substance suspected to be cocaine into the country. Justice Evelyn Maha, gave the order, following an application by NDLEA Counsel, Mr Mike Kassa. Kassa had prayed the court to remand the defendant for seven days, pending the conclusion of investigations into the circumstances surrounding the case. Defence counsel, Mr Stephen Magondo, however, objected to the application. Magondo argued that the defendant should remain in the custody of the NDLEA, and not be taken to prison until the next adjourned date. Gathangu was arrested on May 11, at the arrival hall of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, by operatives of the NDLEA. The offence, the prosecution said, is contrary to the provisions of Section and 11(b) of the NDLEA Act, Cap N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. Justice Evelyn Maha adjourned hearing in the matter until June 28. Minsheng Education Group Company Limited (HKG:1569), which is in the consumer services business, and is based in China, saw significant share price movement during recent months on the SEHK, rising to highs of HK$2 and falling to the lows of HK$1.61. Some share price movements can give investors a better opportunity to enter into the stock, and potentially buy at a lower price. A question to answer is whether Minsheng Education Group's current trading price of HK$1.63 reflective of the actual value of the small-cap? Or is it currently undervalued, providing us with the opportunity to buy? Lets take a look at Minsheng Education Groups outlook and value based on the most recent financial data to see if there are any catalysts for a price change. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Check out our latest analysis for Minsheng Education Group What is Minsheng Education Group worth? The stock seems fairly valued at the moment according to my relative valuation model. In this instance, Ive used the price-to-earnings (PE) ratio given that there is not enough information to reliably forecast the stocks cash flows. I find that Minsheng Education Groups ratio of 17.3x is trading slightly above its industry peers ratio of 15.61x, which means if you buy Minsheng Education Group today, youd be paying a relatively reasonable price for it. And if you believe Minsheng Education Group should be trading in this range, then there isnt really any room for the share price grow beyond what its currently trading. In addition to this, it seems like Minsheng Education Groups share price is quite stable, which could mean there may be less chances to buy low in the future now that its fairly valued. This is because the stock is less volatile than the wider market given its low beta. What kind of growth will Minsheng Education Group generate? SEHK:1569 Past and Future Earnings, May 28th 2019 Future outlook is an important aspect when youre looking at buying a stock, especially if you are an investor looking for growth in your portfolio. Buying a great company with a robust outlook at a cheap price is always a good investment, so lets also take a look at the company's future expectations. With profit expected to grow by 81% over the next couple of years, the future seems bright for Minsheng Education Group. It looks like higher cash flow is on the cards for the stock, which should feed into a higher share valuation. Story continues What this means for you: Are you a shareholder? 1569s optimistic future growth appears to have been factored into the current share price, with shares trading around its fair value. However, there are also other important factors which we havent considered today, such as the financial strength of the company. Have these factors changed since the last time you looked at 1569? Will you have enough conviction to buy should the price fluctuate below the true value? Are you a potential investor? If youve been keeping an eye on 1569, now may not be the most advantageous time to buy, given it is trading around its fair value. However, the optimistic forecast is encouraging for 1569, which means its worth further examining other factors such as the strength of its balance sheet, in order to take advantage of the next price drop. Price is just the tip of the iceberg. Dig deeper into what truly matters the fundamentals before you make a decision on Minsheng Education Group. You can find everything you need to know about Minsheng Education Group in the latest infographic research report. If you are no longer interested in Minsheng Education Group, you can use our free platform to see my list of over 50 other stocks with a high growth potential. 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. In May 1989, Wang Dan was 20 years old. With a megaphone held up to his thin face, which was in part masked by his large glasses, he rallied the pro-democracy crowds in Beijing's Tiananmen Square. Little more than a month later, after a deadly crackdown by Chinese troops, he found himself on the top of the country's most wanted list. Now, 30 years on, the US-based dissident still remembers every minute of those pivotal days, when student-led pro-democracy activists demonstrated for weeks -- a huge embarrassment for the ruling Communist Party. Ultimately, early on June 4, 1989, Chinese tanks and soldiers crushed the movement, killing hundreds, and by some estimates more than 1,000. "We never expected that," he told AFP in an interview near his home in the Washington suburbs. "To open fire on people, that was beyond our expectations." - Top of most wanted list - He recalls that he was "very surprised" once the bloodshed had ended to find himself atop China's list of student protest leaders wanted by the police. "I was not the most famous student leader at that time. I was one of them," he said. "After so many years, I realized there must be some reason, and that reason is that I was different from other student leaders in only one thing. "I had a very close relationship with intellectuals, and the government wanted to label these protests as provoked by intellectuals." When the People's Liberation Army sent tanks and machine-gun-toting troops onto Tiananmen Square in the heart of Beijing, Wang was not on the sprawling plaza facing the Forbidden City and the Great Hall of the People. "I was in a dorm on my campus. But I got a lot of phone calls from my friends along Tiananmen Square... so gradually I learned that more and more people died," he said. He tried to make it back to the square with other students on bicycles, but "every street was blocked by the police and the soldiers," he recounted. Story continues "We didn't make it." - 'Totally numb' - The scale of the bloodshed -- the real toll is still a mystery -- left Wang devastated. "I remember feeling totally numb. I couldn't think about anything. That situation lasted for at least two days," he said. But he eventually realized he needed to think about going into hiding. His face was plastered all over state television. He fled to northeastern China, in Heilongjiang province. He also spent some time in Shanghai. After about a month, he understood that his situation was desperate. "Hiding in my friends' houses could bring a lot of potential danger for my friends. I didn't want to bring trouble to them," Wang said. So he returned to Beijing, his hometown, and was arrested almost immediately. But given his high profile, he received a relatively light sentence: four years in prison for "counter-revolutionary" activities. "Life in jail in my case is not very representative, because my case is very special. I drew a lot of international attention about my situation, so they treated me ok," he said. "They didn't beat me, there was no serious torture," he added, though he was placed in solitary confinement. Wang earned a conditional release in 1993, but became quickly disillusioned with the concept of freedom. "I was followed by the police every day. Anywhere I would go, some police would follow me," he said. "That was just another kind of prison" - Return to China some day? - Though Wang was well aware that any human rights activism or defense of democratic ideals could land him back behind bars in his homeland, he chose to travel in China and promote his beliefs. "I still felt I had some obligations and responsibilities towards those persons who died in 1989 or sacrificed their youth," he said. Of course, he was arrested again. This time, he was handed an 11-year prison sentence. But in 1998, he was again freed, ostensibly for medical reasons, and sent to the United States, where he has continued his fight for democracy in China while earning a degree in history from Harvard University. The dissident has not returned to China in 20 years, but his parents still live here, and he thinks about going all the time. "Sooner or later, I am very confident. I just don't know when," he said. Two people, including a 14-year-old boy, were killed in a market place bombing in Thailand's Muslim-majority south, a military spokesman said Tuesday -- an apparent retaliatory attack for the killing of a wanted rebel leader. Thailand's three southernmost provinces, Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat, have since 2004 been plagued with conflict between ethnic Malay-Muslim rebels and the Buddhist-majority Thai state, which annexed the region around a century ago. Around 7,000 people, mostly civilians, have been killed in violence that rarely makes international headlines despite taking place a few hours south of some of Thailand's tourist hotspots. On Monday afternoon, the insurgents detonated a motorcycle bomb at a crowded market place in Nong Chik, Pattani province, killing two civilians. "A 14-year-old boy and a 38-year-old woman died," Colonel Thanawee Suwannathat, spokesman for the southern army, told AFP. Four military rangers were wounded in the blast. The bombing appeared to be in "retaliation" for the death of a fugitive suspected rebel leader in neighbouring Yala province earlier in the day, who was shot dead as authorities surrounded his house, Thanawee told AFP. The 37-year-old suspect, named as Abdulloh Lateh, was "head of operations" in the Yaha district. The highly secretive rebels, who are pushing for autonomy from Thailand, operate in small village cells, with their senior leaders based overseas far from the reach of Thai authorities. The grinding conflict is characterised by tit-for-tat attacks that usually target symbols of the Thai state and its security forces but civilians from both Muslim and Buddhist communities often get caught in the crossfire. The region usually sees an uptick in violence during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which ends next week. Monday's violence came a day after another bomb attack in Songkhla province killed a police officer at a checkpoint, wounding three others. Story continues Video footage of Sunday's attack showed a plume of thick smoke as the blast went off, leaving a police officer's body lying in the middle of the road. Thailand's junta leader Prayut Chan-O-Cha -- who is expected to return as a civilian prime minister in the coming days -- condemned the latest attacks as "inhuman". Peace talks have been inconclusive despite an intensification of army operations in the border zone with Malaysia. Dividend paying stocks like Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group Co., Limited (HKG:1599) tend to be popular with investors, and for good reason - some research suggests a significant amount of all stock market returns come from reinvested dividends. If you are hoping to live on your dividends, it's important to be more stringent with your investments than the average punter. Regular readers know we like to apply the same approach to each dividend stock, and we hope you'll find our analysis useful. In this case, Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group likely looks attractive to dividend investors, given its 5.3% dividend yield and four-year payment history. It sure looks interesting on these metrics - but there's always more to the story . There are a few simple ways to reduce the risks of buying Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group for its dividend, and we'll go through these below. Click the interactive chart for our full dividend analysis SEHK:1599 Historical Dividend Yield, May 28th 2019 Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Payout ratios Dividends are usually paid out of company earnings. If a company is paying more than it earns, then the dividend might become unsustainable - hardly an ideal situation. Comparing dividend payments to a company's net profit after tax is a simple way of reality-checking whether a dividend is sustainable. Looking at the data, we can see that 26% of Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group's profits were paid out as dividends in the last 12 months. This is medium payout level that leaves enough capital in the business to fund opportunities that might arise, while also rewarding shareholders. Besides, if reinvestment opportunities dry up, the company has room to increase the dividend. We also measure dividends paid against a company's levered free cash flow, to see if enough cash was generated to cover the dividend. Unfortunately, while Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group pays a dividend, it also reported negative free cash flow last year. While there may be a good reason for this, it's not ideal from a dividend perspective. It's positive to see that Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group's dividend is covered by both profits and cash flow, since this is generally a sign that the dividend is sustainable, and a lower payout ratio usually suggests a greater margin of safety before the dividend gets cut. Story continues Remember, you can always get a snapshot of Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group's latest financial position, by checking our visualisation of its financial health. Dividend Volatility Before buying a stock for its income, we want to see if the dividends have been stable in the past, and if the company has a track record of maintaining its dividend. Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group has been paying a dividend for the past four years. The dividend has not fluctuated much, but with a relatively short payment history, we can't be sure this is sustainable across a full market cycle. During the past four-year period, the first annual payment was CN0.074 in 2015, compared to CN0.11 last year. This works out to be a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 11% a year over that time. Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group has been growing its dividend quite rapidly, which is exciting. However, the short payment history makes us question whether this performance will persist across a full market cycle. Dividend Growth Potential Examining whether the dividend is affordable and stable is important. However, it's also important to assess if earnings per share (EPS) are growing. Growing EPS can help maintain or increase the purchasing power of the dividend over the long run. Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group has grown its earnings per share at 6.8% per annum over the past five years. It's good to see decent earnings growth and a low payout ratio. Companies with these characteristics often display the fastest dividend growth over the long term - assuming earnings can be maintained, of course. We'd also point out that Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group issued a meaningful number of new shares in the past year. Regularly issuing new shares can be detrimental - it's hard to grow dividends per share when new shares are regularly being created. Conclusion Dividend investors should always want to know if a) a company's dividends are affordable, b) if there is a track record of consistent payments, and c) if the dividend is capable of growing. First, we like Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group's low dividend payout ratio, although we're a bit concerned that it paid out a substantially higher percentage of its free cash flow. Unfortunately, earnings growth has also been mediocre, and we think it has not been paying dividends long enough to demonstrate resilience across economic cycles. While we're not hugely bearish on it, overall we think there are potentially better dividend stocks than Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group out there. Earnings growth generally bodes well for the future value of company dividend payments. See if the 3 Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group analysts we track are forecasting continued growth with our free report on analyst estimates for the company. We have also put together a list of global stocks with a market capitalisation above $1bn and yielding more 3%. 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. Vienna (AFP) - Climate activist Greta Thunberg called on citizens to "change everything" to avert climate crisis, at the start of a conference in Vienna Tuesday organised by former California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. "We young people are waking up and we promise, we won't let you get away with it anymore," 16-year-old Thunberg told delegates. She was speaking after green parties emerged as one of the big winners in the European parliamentary elections. Climate change was "the biggest crisis that humanity has ever faced," said Thunberg. "It is not something you can 'like' on Facebook." Technological developments in fields such as electric cars and solar energy should not leave people with the impression that they could "solve the crisis without making any efforts", she said. "Once we realise, we act, we change. Humans are very adaptable," she added. Thunberg has become a figurehead for young climate activists internationally, inspiring hundreds of thousands of other youths to strike from school in "Fridays For Future" protests. She was speaking at the Austrian World Summit, an initiative launched by Schwarzenegger, which brings together some 1,200 figures from the worlds of science, politics and business to discuss ways to tackle climate change. In a speech at the event, Schwarzenegger called on world leaders to "stop lying to the people about pollution and about the climate change" and to "invest in the green energy of the future". UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres regretted that "many of the countries that in Paris promised to do a number of things are not even catching up with their own promises". The 2015 Paris agreement, negotiated under the auspices of the UN, enjoins nations to cap global warming at "well below" two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit). But US President Donald Trump pulled out of the accord in 2017. Story continues "Climate disruption is upon us, and it is progressing faster than our efforts to address it," Guterres said. In Sunday's European parliament elections green parties managed double-digit scores in some of Europe's biggest countries, including 20 percent in Germany. Polling data indicates younger voters in particular turned towards environmentalist parties in order to put climate action more firmly on the agenda. London (AFP) - British political operative Alastair Campbell, right-hand man of former prime minister Tony Blair, was expelled by the Labour Party on Tuesday after admitting he voted for the Liberal Democrats in the European elections. Anti-Brexit campaigner Campbell said he voted Lib Dem "to try to persuade Labour to do the right thing" and call for a second referendum, adding he was "sad and disappointed" by his expulsion. "I have been advised by lawyers with expertise in this field I have grounds for appeal against expulsion and shall do so; I am and always will be Labour," he said in a statement. The controversial former press chief claimed there had been "plenty of precedent of members voting for other parties/causes" that were still in the party, including current leader Jeremy Corbyn. Campbell said the hardline approach towards him also contrasted with the treatment of past persistent Labour rebels -- including Corbyn -- under Blair. Labour's women and equalities secretary Dawn Butler said members who voted for different parties were "automatically excluded". "It's just part of the rule book. Everyone knows that," she said. Campbell served as Blair's chief press secretary and was heavily involved in drawing up Britain's Iraq War policy. He emerged back into the political arena following Britain's 2016 decision to leave the EU, becoming a leading figure in the campaign to force another referendum. Labour leader Corbyn, a veteran eurosceptic, has been under pressure from members and MPs to call for another vote, but has so far resisted. His party's ambiguous approach to Brexit saw them get hammered at the ballot box during the EU elections, losing half of their 20 seats and finishing in third place behind the stridently anti-Brexit Lib Dems and the newly-formed Brexit Party. NAMCHE, Nepal (AP) Scaling Mount Everest was a dream few realized before Nepal opened its side of the mountain to commercial climbing a half-century ago. This year the government issued a record number of permits, leading to traffic jams on the world's highest peak that likely contributed to the greatest death toll in four years. As the allure of Everest grows, so have the crowds, with inexperienced climbers faltering on the narrow passageway to the peak and causing deadly delays, veteran climbers said. After 11 people died this year, Nepal tourism officials have no intention of restricting the number of permits issued, instead encouraging even more tourists and climbers to come "for both pleasure and fame," said Mohan Krishna Sapkota, secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation. BANGKOK (AP) Myanmar's military, accused of massive human rights violations against the Muslim Rohingya minority less than two years ago, is committing war crimes and other atrocities as it engages in new military operations in the western state of Rakhine, the human rights group Amnesty International said Wednesday. Myanmar's army has "killed and injured civilians in indiscriminate attacks since January 2019" as it battles the Arakan Army, a well-trained guerrilla force from the Buddhist ethnic group seeking autonomy for Rakhine, Amnesty said in a report. It accused the military of carrying out "extrajudicial executions, arbitrary arrests, torture and other ill treatment, and enforced disappearances." But it also says the Arakan rebels have committed abuses against civilians, including kidnappings, though on a lesser scale. SHENZHEN, China (AP) Chinese tech giant Huawei filed a motion in U.S. court Wednesday challenging the constitutionality of a law that limits its sales of telecom equipment, the latest action in an ongoing clash with the U.S. government. Huawei's chief legal officer Song Liuping said at press briefing that Huawei had filed a motion for summary judgment asking the court to rule on whether it is constitutional for the U.S. to implement a military spending provision that bars the government and its contractors from using Huawei equipment. Huawei is the biggest global maker of network equipment, but it is now fighting to maintain access to major markets for next-generation communications as the U.S. Story continues SYDNEY (AP) An Australian man who kidnapped and repeatedly raped a British backpacker during a monthlong ordeal in the country's Outback has been jailed for 10 years. Marcus Allyn Keith Martin, 25, had pleaded guilty in the District Court of Cairns, in the far north of Queensland state, to charges of rape and deprivation of liberty against the 22-year-old woman from Liverpool, England. Prosecutors told the court the pair met in Cairns in January 2017 and had begun a relationship. When the relationship soured, Martin subjected the woman to weeks of physical abuse while forcing her to drive him hundreds of miles (kilometers) south and then into the west of the state. SYDNEY (AP) Scott Morrison was sworn in as Australia's prime minister on Wednesday, 11 days after retaining the position in the country's general election. Along with Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack, Morrison was sworn in by Queen Elizabeth's official representative in Australia, Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove, at a ceremony in the capital, Canberra. Also sworn in was Morrison's revamped Cabinet, which includes an equal-record seven women, and Australia's first Aboriginal federal cabinet minister, Ken Wyatt. Wyatt, the new indigenous affairs minister, received a standing ovation from the small gathering at the ceremony when he stepped up to be sworn in. TOKYO (AP) Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is wooing Japan for aid, trade and investment in a visit that highlights cordial relations with the administration of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Hasina, who is beginning a third consecutive five-year term, arrived late Tuesday and is set to meet Abe and hold a joint news conference Wednesday. A dinner is also being held in her honor. The leaders will discuss the Bay of Bengal development project and strengthening economic and security partnerships, according to the Japanese Foreign Ministry. Japan has been weary of the security and economic threat of neighboring China and has been courting other nations in Asia as well as the U.S. MALE, Maldives (AP) The Maldives' parliament has overwhelmingly voted the country's first democratically elected president as the speaker of the house. Mohamed Nasheed received 67 votes from among 87 members. His rival received 17 votes past midnight Tuesday. The speaker also has a role in the Judicial Services Commission that regulates the Supreme Court, and is third in line should the positions of the president and vice president become vacant. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party has swept the parliamentary elections, winning 65 out of 87 seats. Last year, Solih defeated strongman Yameen Abdul Gayoom in the presidential vote. JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (AP) The U.S. military says it has identified the remains of three more Americans killed during the Korean War, even as efforts to recover additional remains have stalled amid souring relations with North Korea. One family has been notified and notification of the other two families is pending, Lt. Col. Ken Hoffman, spokesman for the Defense POW-MIA Accounting Agency, said Tuesday. One set of remains has been identified as those of Army Cpl. Charles S. Lawler, a member of Company M, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. The DPAA said in a statement that Lawler, whose hometown was not provided, had been engaged against enemy forces near Unsan, North Korea, and was reported missing in action on Nov. KAWASAKI, Japan (AP) A man carrying a knife in each hand and screaming "I will kill you!" attacked a group of schoolgirls near a school bus parked at a bus stop just outside Tokyo on Tuesday, killing two people and injuring at least 17 before killing himself, officials said. Most of the victims were students at a Catholic elementary school who were lined up at the bus stop near Noborito Park in the city of Kawasaki when the man began slashing them with knives. Officials said police captured the attacker but he died at a hospital from a self-inflicted cut in his neck. After more than a decade of rapid growth, Chinese travel to the U.S. is falling. And that has cities, malls and other tourist spots scrambling to reverse the trend. Travel from China to the U.S. fell 5.7% in 2018 to 2.9 million visitors, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office, which collects data from U.S. Customs forms. It was the first time since 2003 that Chinese travel to the U.S. slipped from the prior year. Friction between the U.S. and China is one reason for the slowdown. The Trump administration first imposed tariffs on Chinese solar panels and washing machines in January 2018, and the trade war has escalated from there. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, on Tuesday has said President Muhammadu Buhari should be blamed and not the leadership of the National Assembly for the delay in the passage of the 2019 budgets. Buhari, who had on Monday signed the 2019 budget into law, had later at night passed a vote of no confidence on Dogara and the Senate President, Bukola Saraki. Buhari had blamed the delay in signing 2019 budget on the leadership of the National Assembly. However, Dogara said since President Buhari assumed office, he, has been unable to present budget on time. In a statement he signed, Dogara said: His first budget was the 2016 budget, which was submitted on December 22, 2015, exactly nine days to the end of the fiscal year. The minimum time the National Assembly requires to pass budget is three months. But he presented it just nine days to 2016 and that what Nigerians didnt know and the President wont say is that the Executive through the various ministries continued to propose additional projects to be included in the 2018 budget even as at April and May which further delayed the passage of the 2018 budget. These were communicated officially and if anyone is in doubt, the letters are there with the dates they were written and received. But heres Buhari blaming the National Assembly. President Muhammadu Buhari a few days ago, in his usual characteristics of self-righteousness, and buck-passing blamed tardiness in the passage of budgets by the National Assembly for the delay in the completion of projects across the country by his government. To be precise, the president said, If the National Assembly takes seven months to pass a budget, then we should be commended for the much that we have achieved, and can still achieve. I personally feel very disappointed. I spoke with the leaders of the National Assembly on the issue that seven months is a long time to work on a budget. Even though buck passing and blame game is not new to Buhari as it is now his stock in trade; in the past few days and weeks, there is no day that passes without the President blaming others in a desperate move to exonerate himself from any blame or failure of the Executive under his leadership to execute projects across the country. In fact, very recently, Buhari blamed all his predecessors for failing to build infrastructure. And I wonder why? It was the general consensus that the former employees didnt perform as expected and that was why Nigerians hired him for a job he has sought for four conservative time but here he is blaming the same people he replaced. If you are the boss of Nigeria limited, what will you do this employee? Some weeks ago, he even blamed the media for failing to showcase his achievements. Im very disappointed with the Nigerian press. They didnt give this government the credit of the go back to land programme, he said on 26 October. Time and space would not permit me to list all his blaming. However, it is disingenuous for President Muhammad Buhari to blame the National Assembly for his governments inability to implement budget and execute projects that affect the lives of Nigerians in the last three years. To set the record straight, this is a President who, from inception of his government didnt show any sign that he was well prepared and ready for the job he sought for four times in 16 years and for which we voted for him. For instance, it took him six months, yes six months not six weeks to form his cabinet. It also took him two years to appoint board chairmen for most government agencies. This is was his greatest undoing and was principally responsible for plunging Nigeria into recession because activities in Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government were brought to a half for the period since civil servants could not take decisions due to absence of political heads in a country where public sector spending drives the economy. At a point, he even said he was happy working with civil servants because ministers or politicians were noisemakers because they are only there to make a lot of noises, he told a French television station in September 2015. Now, after three years, with election in three months, the President is at it again, exonerating himself from apparent failure of his government thereby throwing the blame right at the doorstep of the legislature. But facts dont lie and they could be stubborn and here are the facts: Late budget presentation Since his assuming office, the president has been unable to present budget on time. His first budget was the 2016 budget which was submitted on December 22, 2015, exactly nine days to the end of the fiscal year. The minimum the National Assembly requires to pass budget is three months. But he presented it just nine days to 2016. Again, the 2017 budget was presented on December 14,2016, just 17 days to the end of 2016. The earliest he presented budget was on November 7, 2017 which was the 2018 appropriations bill. It was less than two months to the end of the year. However, his ministers refused to appear before National Assembly committees to defend the budget for five months thereby delaying the passage. It was after the leadership of the National Assembly sought the Presidents intervention on March 16, 2018 that the ministers reluctantly appeared before the committees, an exercise that takes at least one month to complete. In fact , some of them who felt they were super ministers sent in their permanent secretaries. What Nigerians didnt know and the President wont say is that the Executive through the various ministries continued to propose additional projects to be included in the 2018 budget even as at April and May which further delayed the passage of the 2018 budget. These were communicated officially and if anyone is in doubt the letters are there with the dates they were written and received. But heres Buhari blaming the National Assembly. Violation of Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 Since the inception of the Buhari administration, it has been in constant violation of the Fiscal Responsibility Act which stipulates that budgets should be presented in early September. The wisdom or import of the FRA is that the National Assembly will have at least three full months to work on the budget bill. Infact, the Executive admitted its failure and inability to abide by the law on August 24,2018 when former minister of Budget and National Planning, now minister of finance, Zainab Ahmed disclosed that the Federal government will present the 2019 budget in September in a bid to restore the budget circle from January to December but here we are in November without the budget estimates before the lawmakers. Buharis Failure/Refusal to assent to budget submission Bill In a bid to address the issue of late budget presentation and passage, the National Assembly passed a constitutional amendment bill that requires the President to submit the Appropriation Bill not later than 90 days to the end of the financial year but unfortunately, very unfortunately, the president has vetoed the bill. Veto of National Assembly Budget Office Bill In an effort to improve institutional capacity of the Parliament to process and pass budget expeditiously, the National Assembly Budget and Research Office (NABRO) establishment Bill was passed into law. It was loosely modelled after the American Congressional Budget Office (CBO). Again, President Buhari has also vetoed the Bill. Lack of Adequate Consultation Under a Presidential system of government like ours where the doctrine of separation of powers and principles of checks and balances are well enshrined in our constitution, wisdom presupposes that the Executive at all time engages the legislature on all issues that requires legislation in order to have their buy in even before it is presented to the parliament formally. The three Presidents before Buhari, from 1999 -2015, Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yaradua and Goodluck Jonathan despite their failings sustained this tradition which is necessary for harmonious relations between the Executive and the Legislature and smooth running of government. Under this, it is expected that the President meets with the leadership of the two chambers (Body of Principal Officers including members of the opposition) and brief them on the details of the budget and key projects he would want to execute. They, in turn would brief their colleagues while the MDAs will then engage the committees over sighting them in pre-budget session. President Shehu Shagari used to hold such meetings monthly. Doing this, would have helped in reducing the time it takes to pass the budget because even before it is presented, the MPs would have been well informed about it and their inputs taken into consideration at the preparation stage by the various MDAs. Unfortunately, this too has not been done in the last three years. National Assembly Not A Rubber Stamp Parliament. The National Assembly has repeatedly challenged the Executive to approach the Supreme Court to seek interpretation on the constitutional powers of the legislature over budget, but up till now, they have failed to do so. Until then, the judgement of the Federal High court in FHC/ABJ/CS/259/2014 delivered on March 9, 2016 which was not appealed by either parties stands. This is what his lordship, Hon Justice Gabriel Kolawole said in delivering judgment in the suit by Femi Falana SAN the National Assembly was not created by drafters of the Constitution and imbued with the powers to receive budget estimates which the first defendant is constitutionally empowered to prepare and lay before it, as a rubber stamp parliament. The whole essence of the budget estimates being required to be laid before Parliament is to enable it, being the Assembly of the representatives of the people, to debate the said budget proposals and to make its own well informed legislative inputs into it. SheKnows With so many A-list celebrities speaking up about ageism, and society not allowing them to age gracefully, its no surprise that cosmetic fillers are now entering the conversation. Amy Schumer revealed that not only did she get the dermatological procedure, she also hated it so much that she had it removed. She shared her facial [] Photo: Jamie McInall/Pexels Missed the the most recent top news in Los Angeles? Read on for everything you need to know. Homicide detectives investigating infants death in Bellflower Homicide detectives are investigating the death of an infant found behind a building in Bellflower on Monday, authorities said. Read the full story on KTLA 5 News. Elderly woman arrested after slow speed pursuit through South LA An elderly woman was arrested after authorities say she led police on a slow-speed pursuit through South Los Angeles. Read the full story on CBS Los Angeles. Tanker spill causes traffic jam on I-5 near Los Angeles A tanker broke down Monday on the Golden State Freeway and began spilling hydrogen peroxide onto the road, forcing the California Highway Patrol to close all northbound lanes at the site and shutting down traffic flow for miles. Read the full story on FOX 5 San Diego. 102-year-old woman facing eviction gets help from Arnold Schwarzenegger Thelma Smith was given until June 30 to move out by landlords who say their daughter needs a place to live. Read the full story on ABC10. VIDEO: Police officer shot at point-blank range **Warning. Video is graphic. Viewer discretion is advised. ** A police officer in Los Angeles is okay after being shot at point blank range. The shooting happened at a housing complex in Los Angeles last month. Police just shared the video with the public after a preliminary investigation. Read the full story on FOX26. 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. Photo: Zachary DeBottis/Pexels Missed the the most recent top news in Las Vegas? Read on for everything you need to know. Meek Mill claims he was kicked out of Las Vegas strip hotel-casino Meek Mill is accusing The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas of being racist after being thrown out of the hotel. Read the full story on CBS Philly. Las Vegas police looking for armed robbery suspect Las Vegas police are searching for a suspect in a robbery on Friday in which he used a knife to steal money from a business. Read the full story on Las Vegas Review-Journal. 17-mile traffic backup on I-15 south of Las Vegas Traffic delays are expected Monday on southbound Interstate 15 with visitors leaving Las Vegas as the holiday weekend comes to an end. Read the full story on Las Vegas Review-Journal. 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. Matthew Hatcher/Getty DAYTON, OhioA senior citizen killed when a parked car was blown into his home. A shopping plaza torn to shreds. The roof peeled off an arena. Scenes of devastation dotted a swath of Ohio after a series of tornadoes tore through several towns, leaving some without homes and many more without power. Theres areas that truly look like a war zone, Celina Mayor Jeffrey Hazel told the Associated Press. Dozens of twisters roared through several states, but Celina, Trotwood, and North Dayton in Ohio appeared to have some of the heaviest damage. Melvin Dale Hannah, 81, was sleeping at his home in Celina when the tornado touched down, flipping vehicles into the air, the Dayton Daily News reported. One slammed into the house, killing him, the fire chief said. Up to 90 others were injured in the severe weather, and rescue crews were going door to door to look for people who were trapped, hurt or worse. The National Weather Service confirmed the tornado that swept through Trotwood was an EF-3. Winds of up to 140 mph sheared off parts of the iconic Hara Arena, which was vacant. Trotwood resident Erica Bohannan took shelter in a closet with her son and dog and came out after the storm to find her roof gone. If I didnt move quick enough, what could have happened? she asked an AP reporter. On Dixie Road in Dayton, a shopping plaza looked like a bomb had gone off, with walls crumbled on the ground and debris scattered everywhere. Read more at The Daily Beast. Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast here Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now! Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more. Washington (AFP) - Ohio residents inspected destroyed homes and debris-strewn streets Tuesday after powerful tornadoes ripped through the US state overnight, killing at least one person and causing widespread damage and power outages. One twister that barreled through the city of Dayton left 80,000 people without power as day broke, the city's assistant fire chief Nicholas Hosford told ABC News. "We have homes flattened, entire apartment complexes destroyed, businesses throughout our community where walls have collapsed," Hosford said. "I don't know that any community that is fully prepared for this type of devastation," he added. That twister was one of many -- up to 52, according to the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration -- that touched down Monday night and roared through eight US states. As the scope of the damage became visible with daylight, rescue teams searching for tornado victims in Dayton went door-to-door in areas particularly hard hit by the storm. Hosford said an unknown number of people in Dayton were injured or displaced. The one known fatality so far is an 81-year-old man in the town of Celina, about a 90-minute drive north of Dayton, said Celina Mayor Jeffrey Hazel. The man died when a car crashed into his home, Hazel said. The National Weather Service said the tornado that hit Celina was "at least an EF3," meaning it had winds of 136-165 miles per hour (218-265 kilometers per hour). - 'Almost like a train' - Drone footage broadcast on US TV outlets showed large, modern homes in Celina obliterated by the tornado, while homes right next door dodged its fury. On one interstate highway north of Dayton the debris was so thick that crews used snow plows to push aside tree branches and rubble, said the Ohio Department of Transportation. Celina resident Kylie Post said that when she heard tornado sirens start blaring, she and her son took shelter in a bathtub and covered themselves with a mattress -- because their home has no basement. Story continues "The first thing I heard was the sirens. Then, next it sounded almost like a train was near us that lasted for only a few minutes," Post told the Cincinnati.com news site. Dayton city hall asked people to conserve water because power at water plants and pumping stations was knocked out. The National Weather Service said the tornado cut electricity supplies to five million people statewide, and parts of Ohio faced the risk of flash flooding. Emergency workers shut down gas lines and struggled to reach residents trapped by debris, officials in Montgomery County said. The tornado was the third in a week to rake the central United States. At least two people died and another 29 were hospitalized in Oklahoma over the weekend when a tornado flattened a mobile home park in the town of El Reno. President Donald Trump, wrapping up a trip to Asia, tweeted that he had offered federal resources for the cleanup. Another three people died last Wednesday when a tornado packing speeds of 160 miles (260 kilometers) per hour tore through Jefferson City in Missouri. burs/dw/wd/ch Shanghai (AFP) - Xu Xuebing began importing US wood products into Shanghai two years ago, anticipating sizable profits re-selling to Chinese furniture manufacturers. Then the China-US trade war started. Since Beijing began to impose retaliatory tariffs on US goods last year, Xu has halted imports, his profits have plummeted, and he may soon need to raise his prices just to survive -- which could kill off sales for good. Xu, who is 42 and owns Shanghai-based company Sam Wood, doesn't mince words over who's to blame. "Trump is so bossy and irrational, it forces us to fight back," he said. "Even though (China's tariffs) do harm to our economy, we strongly support Uncle Xi and China's tough stance in the trade negotiations," he added, using the government-encouraged term of endearment for President Xi Jinping. The world's two largest economies have levied tit-for-tat tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars worth of each other's imports since President Donald Trump launched the trade battle last year, seeking to pressure Beijing to change trade policies he calls unfair. But the impact on small- to medium-sized Chinese businesses caught in the crossfire typically gets little attention, partly because China's Communist government suppresses bad news. Xu, who also exports clothing to Russia and meat to Mongolia, began in March 2017 to import black walnut wood from the US states of Wisconsin, Missouri and Iowa. But after the tariff slugfest broke out last year, Xu's bottom line was ravaged by duties of 20 percent that China slapped on the rough-cut woods that he had originally imported. So he switched to semi-finished woods, which had been hit by tariffs of only five-percent. - No good options - The trade turmoil has also driven China's currency down, making Xu's imports even more expensive. Overall, his import costs are up 20 percent so far this year. "Our sales target for 2018 was 50 million yuan ($7.25 million), but we only brought in 13 million yuan," Xu said. Story continues "The trade war has had a huge and direct impact on our business." Pre-tariffs, Sam Wood would do five to six million yuan of monthly business volume. But it earned only around four million yuan combined for the first three months of 2019. "We are taking prudent measures. Less orders, less profits," said Xu, who recently suspended imports. He has so far refrained from passing the higher costs on to his own clients -- like Hanning Group, a company in neighbouring Jiangsu province near Shanghai that produces furniture from US, African and Southeast Asian wood. If tariffs rise further, "it will put a lot of pressure on costs in the whole market", said Wu Bian, Hanning's chairman. "We shouldn't let ourselves be controlled by feelings but should calmly think 'it's here, how do we deal with it?'" "We have to confront it and take steps towards making ourselves stronger." Xu says some of his fellow wood importers have gone bust, and he may soon need to hike his prices. His US suppliers are also complaining to him of the pain, and Xu predicts some will go out of business this year. The disruption of trade flows is pushing many Chinese importers to seek other sources for their goods, but Xu has struggled to find suitable alternatives. "There are no good solutions and we are awaiting new signals in the trade war," he said. "For the sake of national justice and patriotism, we must confront the tough with toughness." 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. An investigation into the finances of Donald Trumps inaugural committee has drawn attention and scrutiny to a massive donation of $1m (790,000). Real estate mogul Franklin Haney, a known political donor, gave the hefty sum to Mr Trump at the same time that the developer was seeking approval and government support in purchasing the Bellefonte Nuclear Power Plant, which lies unfinished in Alabama. Mr Haney, two years later, has yet to close the deal. His donation to Mr Trumps inaugural committee is being investigated by federal prosecutors in New York, whose search is focused, in part, on if those who handed cash to the committee received any benefits in return. Prosecutors also are exploring if foreign nationals unlawfully donated funds to the committee. Federal prosecutors in Manhattan issued a subpoena last year demanding an array of financial records, including any communications regarding or relating to the possibility of donations by foreign nationals. Mr Trumps inaugural committee has denied any wrongdoing and claims all funds are accounted for. The presidents former personal attorney, Michael Cohen, had allegedly given the prosecutors information on Mr Haney and his son and business associate, Frank Haney Jr, regarding the nuclear plant project, according to an anonymous source that spoke to ABC. Mr Haney had briefly hired Cohen, who is now serving a three year sentence for tax evasion, campaign finance violations and lying to congress, for his assistance in obtaining money for the power plant project from potential investors. This is not the first time Mr Haney, 79, has faced allegations his political donations were an attempt at gaining influence. Mr Haney has been investigated by the US House Republicans in the past for his donations and political influence on the Clinton Administration, which moved the Federal Communications Commission into a building that would benefit the businessman, but the Justice Department declined to pursue the matter. Mr Haney was charged in 1999 with funnelling about $100,000 in illegal contributions to President Bill Clinton, then-Vice President Al Gore and other politicians, but was ultimately acquitted. As President Trump continues to try to get his new trade deal with Canada and Mexico across the finish line, Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's team has reportedly given lawmakers formal notice that it intends to ratify the new NAFTA, or the USMCA. Vice President Pence will be in Canada this week to rally support for the deal, but U.S. lawmakers still must give their approval. Yahoo Finance's Alexis Christoforous, Brian Sozzi, and Jessica Smith look back at the original NAFTA vote in 1993, as well as which lawmakers are still in office, readying to vote on their second trade deal with Mexico and Canada. Former vice president Joe Bidens role in passing the 1994 crime bill has come under new scrutiny from both sides of the aisle, earning rebukes from President Trump as well as his rivals for the Democratic presidential nomination. Biden, who was chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee at the time, said he got stuck writing the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, which critics say contributed to mass incarceration that disproportionately affected black communities. The bill resulted in 100,000 additional police officers and $14 billion community policing grants. In 2015, President Bill Clinton apologized for signing the bill, saying it made the problem worse. President Trump, a fixture of New York society at the time, lambasted Biden over the bill on Monday. New York was granted more than $216 million under the bill and in the next six years added more than 12,000 prison beds and incarcerated 28 percent more New Yorkers. Anyone associated with the 1994 Crime Bill will not have a chance of being elected. In particular, African Americans will not be able to vote for you, Trump wrote on Twitter. I, on the other hand, was responsible for Criminal Justice Reform, which had tremendous support, and helped fix the bad 1994 Bill! Super Predator was the term associated with the 1994 Crime Bill that Sleepy Joe Biden was so heavily involved in passing, the president continued. That was a dark period in American History, but has Sleepy Joe apologized? No! Biden pushed back earlier this month against the notion that the bill was responsible for more incarceration, saying it did not generate mass incarceration. The mass incarceration occurred by the states setting mandatory sentences, he said. What happened is, if you go back and look, the black caucus supported the bill. He did admit, however, that mistakes were involved. The big mistake was that I was buying into the idea that crack-cocaine was different than powdered cocaine and having penalties should be eliminated, Biden said. Story continues Another Democratic presidential candidate, Senator Kamala Harris, said this month that she disagrees with the former vice president and that the legislation did contribute to mass incarceration in our country. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio agreed, saying that the bill is one of the foundations of mass incarceration in a very painful era in our nations history. The vice president and anyone else has to be accountable for every vote they take and whats on their record. I think that was a huge mistake, de Blasio said. More from National Review By Steve Holland WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Senior White House adviser Jared Kushner is leading a U.S. delegation to the Middle East this week seeking support for a late June workshop aimed at helping the Palestinians, a White House official said on Tuesday. Kushner, Middle East envoy Jason Greenblatt and U.S. Special Representative for Iran and Kushner aide Avi Berkowitz began their trip in Rabat and were to travel to Amman and Jerusalem, arriving in Israel on Thursday. Kushner also will attend the Bilderberg conference in Montreux, Switzerland, where he is expected to be a speaker, at the end of the week and then will meet U.S. President Donald Trump in London when the latter makes a state visit there next week. The trip is similar to one that Kushner and Greenblatt took in February to Gulf states to drum up support for the economic portion of a Middle East peace plan they have been developing on behalf of Trump. The official said one reason for this week's trip is to bolster support for a June 25-26 conference in Manama, Bahrain, in which Kushner is to unveil the first part of Trump's long-awaited Israeli-Palestinian peace plan. The plan, touted by Trump as the "deal of the century," is to encourage investment in the West Bank and Gaza Strip by Arab donor countries before grappling with thorny political issues at the heart of the conflict. Palestinian leaders have been sharply critical of the effort. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have said they will participate, and a senior U.S. official said officials from Qatar have said privately their country was expected to attend as well. The Russian foreign ministry took a dim view of the conference in a statement on Tuesday, saying the United States was attempting to "impose an alternative vision of the Palestinian-Israeli settlement. "The Palestinian leadership has already categorically refused to take part, saying that the PLO will not surrender to anyone its exclusive rights to make crucial decisions regarding the realization of Palestinians national aspirations," it said. Story continues Participants in the conference in Manama are expected to include 300 to 400 representatives and business executives from Europe, the Middle East and Asia, and possibly some Palestinian business leaders. A source familiar with the planning said it appeared Egypt, Jordan and Oman, as well as the G7 countries, also would send representatives to the conference. (Reporting by Steve Holland; Additional reporting by Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber in Moscow; Editing by Susan Thomas, James Dalgleish and Dan Grebler) TOKYO, May 28 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump expects that Japan's military will reinforce U.S. forces throughout Asia and elsewhere, he said on Tuesday, as the key U.S. ally upgrades the ability of its forces to operate further from its shores. Trump's comments followed his inspection of Japan's largest warship, the Kaga, a helicopter carrier designed to carry submarine-hunting helicopters to distant waters. The vessel, which will soon be upgraded to handle F-35B short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jets, sailed to India on a flag-flying mission last year, going through the contested South China Sea, much of which is claimed by Beijing. "With this extraordinary new equipment the Kaga will help our nations defend against a range of complex threats in the region and far beyond," Trump said in a speech on the ship's hangar deck. The refit of the vessel, and its sister ship, the Izumo, is expected to bolster U.S. forces operating from Japan by providing a refueling platform for U.S. Marine F-35Bs. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who accompanied Trump on the visit to the Kaga, has boosted defense spending since taking office in December 2012, stretching the pacifist constitution to ease limits on troop activities abroad. He also wants to revise the post-World War Two charter to recognize the existence of Japan's military. The Kaga and the Izumo are the biggest aircraft carriers Japan has operated since its wartime defeat, but its Self Defence Forces designate them as destroyers, as constitutional curbs forbid possession of weapons that could be used to attack other countries. Trump is winding up a four-day state visit meant to underscore the U.S.-Japan alliance, but shadowed by friction over Tokyo's big trade surplus with America. On Monday he told a news conference that Washington supported Japan's efforts to improve its defense capability and touted Tokyo's purchases of American military equipment. Story continues Japan last year unveiled a plan to buy 45 more F-35 stealth fighters, including some B variants, worth about $4 billion, adding to the 42 jets it has already ordered. Japan says it eventually wants to field a force of around 150 of the advanced fighter jets, as it tries to keep ahead of China's advances in military technology. "This purchase would give Japan the largest fleet of F-35s of any of our allies," Trump said on the Kaga, docked at the Yokosuka naval base near Tokyo. The base is the headquarters of the Japanese fleet and also the home port of the U.S. Seventh Fleet. (Reporting by Tim Kelly and Malcolm Foster; Writing by Linda Sieg; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) Donald Trump inherited a superficially stable world from Barack Obama that, in fact, was quite volatile. There had been no tense standoffs with North Korea, but also apparent intercontinental ballistic missiles with possible nuclear warheads now pointed at the United States. Obama more or less punted on North Korea, by declaring it a problem and hoping that Pyongyangs missile and nuclear testing did not get too out of hand before 2017. Then there was the Iran deal. It was an appeasing agreement that almost surely guaranteed that Iran would soon have nuclear weapons, along with a revived economy liberated from sanctions and empowered with American cash. Irans terrorist surrogates were the greatest beneficiaries of U.S. naivete. At best, Obama assumed that when Iran went nuclear, it would be on someone elses presidential watch and therefore not his fault. At worst, Obama, in delusional fashion, believed that empowering Iran would balance Sunni states and bring justice to historically oppressed Shiite and Persian minorities who would take their rightful place in the Islamic world. Everyone knew that China violated almost every aspect of world commerce. Everyone knew that China would never allow the U.S. to trade with China the same way that Beijing traded with America. Everyone knew that 1.3-billion-person China was a neo-imperialist Communist dictatorship that was headed on an announced trajectory of world hegemony. Obama in particular thought that stopping Chinas agenda would be medicine that was more painful than the disease. Like the proverbial medieval mice who voted to warn of a marauding carnivorous house cat by putting a bell around his neck, the prognosis of Chinese mercantilism and aggression and the need to confront Beijing was right-on. But no one wished to do the messy, dangerous work of belling the Chinese cat. The Obama administrations Russian reset was an ungodly disaster. Vladimir Putin absorbed Eastern Ukraine and Crimea. He interfered freely but often clumsily in U.S. elections well prior to 2016. John Kerry invited the Russians to reenter the Middle East on the lunatic idea of a Russian promise to address Syrian WMD. Putin violated prior agreements on the deployment of short-range missiles. The more Obama appeased Putin dismantled missile defense in Eastern Europe, blamed the Bush administration for the tensions that were to be relieved by the reset, and in a hot-mic exchange offered to become more malleable with Putin if Putin would behave while Obama was up for reelection the more Putin detested Obama. Story continues Everyone knew that tired pretenses had nothing to do with the realities on the ground in the Middle East. The U.S. embassy belonged in Jerusalem. The Palestinians of today were no more refugees than were the Volga Germans. The strategic Golan Heights were never going to return to the Assad terrorist state. The U.S. had no business funneling financial assistance through the U.N. to Palestinians who either were engaged in terrorism or approved of it. Trump pulled back the curtain and showed all the little devilish men with gears and levers projecting a fake image of norms and protocols on the Middle East projection screen. Again, these existential crises Iran, North Korea, China, Russia, the Middle East all preceded Trump. But they also all tested the Trump doctrine of restoring deterrence without engaging in costly optional wars in which in tactical victories cannot translate into definable strategic success or clear U.S. advantage in a cost-benefit analysis. Trumps enemies hope (translated into politicalese) that his ambitious foreign policy does not follow the success of Trumps dynamic economy. At home, Trump caused a stir by all at once opening up more federal leasing for energy exploration, green-lighting pipelines, massively deregulating, cutting taxes, jawboning outsourcers and off-shorers, confronting asymmetrical trade partners, pulling out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement and the Paris climate accord, and recalibrating NAFTA. That huge risk of maximum changes everywhere and swarming the opposition all at once achieved a force-multiplying effect on the economy that soon boomed. Trump probably believes that if he goes full-bore abroad, true to form, a domino effect will follow, given that the U.S. gains more sway each time it faces down a miscreant. The stakes are certainly high. A big China trade deal, an agreement to denuclearize North Korea and Iran, flipping Putin to become a neutral rather than an adversary, or a Middle East halfway accord could change global realities and empower the U.S. And so the gambler Trump wagers that he can do overseas what he did at home and pull off land-breaking agreements all at once. Can he? Note that Trump shattered the blue wall in part because of his sober Jacksonianism: restoring U.S. tough deterrence without inserting a large military presence in any of the hellholes that U.S. troops have been deployed to in the past 50 years, much less falling into a conventional war that America could win, but only at considerable cost. Bombing the sh*t out of ISIS was a successful example of a non non-intervention. Early on, the canny Trump, alone of his Republican rivals, fathomed that voters neither wanted any more Obama apologetics nor would put up with another Afghanistan, Libya, or Iraq. Squaring that circle of toughness without risking a major war is now Trumps political challenge, given that the shelf life of rhetorical deterrence is brief. The United States cannot abide renegade lunatic regimes with nuclear missiles aimed at its heartland, or aggressive nuclearized regimes with which the U.S. had either already fought a major war or narrowly avoided one. Chinas destruction of global trading norms only whets Chinas appetite to translate its huge profits into military power and neocolonial adventurism, on the theory that countries that have appeased its mercantilism will probably do the same in matters of its aggressive foreign and military policy. The Palestinians felt that during the Obama years they were insidiously persuading the United States to ostracize the moderate Arab regimes, embrace an Iranian foil, and decouple from Israel. Putin asserted that his weak Russia was a match for a strong U.S. because he assumed that he was strong and Obama weak and therefore his own godhead could do what his country otherwise could not. Yet Trump all at once is attempting to straighten out all the foolishness of the last decade with China, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and the Middle East, and, again, he is doing so simultaneously, not sequentially. He might remember that China is the chief threat, and it has some leverage with both Iran and North Korea. In other words, it would certainly be in Chinas interest to see the U.S. in a mess with its surrogates in Tehran and Pyongyang while America seeks to face down Chinese mercantilism with the Middle East descending into another hot war. So, Trump could achieve either high-profile success or became mired in endless engagements and a pre-election, public-relations disaster. Halving the Chinese trade deficit and forcing it to follow global rules would be an astounding achievement. So would denuclearizing North Korea and preventing Iran from getting the bomb. As would finally telling the Palestinians to give up terrorism and get on with building a state, or corralling Putin so that he abandons dreams of a new Soviet Empire and accepts that Eastern Europe, the Baltic States, and the breakaway republicans are never going to be Russian again. Prodding a change in government in Venezuela would create momentum elsewhere in authoritarian Latin America. Again, to do all that at once, rather than in sequence, would be singular achievements and yet likely improbable. George W. Bush tried to address just three existential challenges all at once following 9/11, and it all but destroyed his presidency. Bush not only fashioned a successful multifaceted anti-terrorism strategy that foiled subsequent attempts to repeat the World Trade Center and Pentagon bombings, but he took the war to the enemy. Yet soon the U.S. was fighting wars in both Iraq and Afghanistan, while trying to stop North Koreas sudden emergence as a nuclear power, and while battling Iranian terrorists inside Iraq and Tehrans own nuclear agenda as China stepped up its global profile and began translating its enormous profits into a growing military, and as OPEC and Middle East suppliers helped drive up the cost of oil. What was problematic about Bushs Axis of Evil of Iraq, Iran, and North Korea was not that the term was necessarily inaccurate about the threats all three posed, or the need to address all of them eventually. The rub was that a country with a sizable force fighting in Afghanistan might abruptly find itself fighting three new dirty conflicts all at once. In short, Trump might learn from the past and avoid what his opponents hope for a series of conflicts dovetailing with the 2020 election, as the financial and psychological strain tax the electorate, as they did from 2006 to 2008. Note in this regard how deeply Trumps opposition is invested in seeing him fail or, specifically, how private citizen John Kerry, last spring and summer, and, most recently, Senator Dianne Feinstein have met with the oleaginous Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif, ostensibly as adults in the room who agree on waiting Trump out which in fact was the explicit advice recently given to the Chinese by former State Department official Susan Thornton. Trumps principled realism, Jacksonianism, or the Trump doctrine ostensibly is tit-for-tat deterrence, not nation-building or optional interventions. If Iran hits an American ship, the U.S. will take out a port facility but not set foot in Iran. If North Korea sends more missiles over Japan with Chinese approval, maybe Japan might have to do the same thing to North Korea with U.S. sanction. But Trump also must remember that he ambitiously is trying to solve the major festering challenges of U.S. foreign policy all at once and right before an election, when his political opposition at home, most of the European Union, and our enemies would like to see him fail at last. So in the next 17 months we should expect all sorts of provocations from abroad, and so-called Logan Acting at home, to make Trump stumble and get into a messy intervention before the election. He should not take the bait. More from National Review President Trump wrapped up his trip to Japan by continuing to attack former Vice President Joe Biden for supporting the infamous 1994 Three Strikes crime bill that mandated life sentences for criminals convicted of a violent felony after two or more prior convictions, including drug crimes. And the president stepped up his attacks on Bidens intelligence, endorsing North Korean dictator Kim Jong Uns description of Biden as a low IQ individual. Tuesday afternoon, back in Washington and facing growing criticism for siding with Kim over an American vice president, while on foreign soil, Trump attempted to soften his comments, tweeting: I was actually sticking up for Sleepy Joe Biden while on foreign soil. Kim Jong Un called him a low IQ idiot, and many other things, whereas I related the quote of Chairman Kim as a much softer low IQ individual. Who could possibly be upset with that? Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 28, 2019 The 1994 law has come under criticism for its disproportionate impact on African-Americans and is a prime target of the criminal justice reform movement. Super Predator was the term associated with the 1994 Crime Bill that Sleepy Joe Biden was so heavily involved in passing, Trump tweeted. That was a dark period in American History, but has Sleepy Joe apologized? No! The president added: Anyone associated with the 1994 Crime Bill will not have a chance of being elected. In particular, African Americans will not be able to vote for you. I, on the other hand, was responsible for Criminal Justice Reform, which had tremendous support, & helped fix the bad 1994 Bill! Last December, Trump signed into law a bipartisan criminal justice reform bill, called the First Step Act, that reduced mandatory minimum prison sentences. The president drew bipartisan praise for his support of the legislation. But Trump wasnt always a champion of reforming prison laws to help African-Americans. In 1989, after black and Latino teenagers known as the Central Park Five were accused of the brutal rape and assault of a female jogger in New York City, Trump took out full-page ads in four New York City newspapers calling for the return of the death penalty. Their convictions were vacated in 2002 after DNA evidence and the confession of a convicted rapist and murderer exonerated them. Story continues President Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden. (Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Eugene Hoshiko/AP, Matt Rourke/AP) As late as 2016, Trump said he remained convinced of their guilt. And as president, Trump has called for the death penalty for nonviolent criminals, such as drug dealers. Last year, while unveiling a plan to combat the opioid epidemic, Trump ordered the Justice Department to pursue the death penalty for drug traffickers. [They] kill so many thousands of our citizens every year, Trump said. Thats why my Department of Justice will be seeking so many tougher penalties than weve ever had, and well be focusing on the penalties that I talked about previously for big pushers, the ones that are killing so many people, and that penalty is going to be the death penalty. Other countries dont play games, he added. But the ultimate penalty has to be the death penalty. During his weekend trip to Japan, Trump stirred controversy by downplaying North Koreas missile tests, saying they dont bother him personally, although my people think it could have been a violation of the agreement Trump struck with Kim at their earlier summit. Kims assessment of Biden was mild compared to his description of Trump in 2017 as a mentally deranged dotard. Trumps simultaneous praise for the North Korean leader and attack on the former vice president did not sit well with the Biden team. On Tuesday, deputy campaign manager Kate Bedingfield issued a statement, writing, The Presidents comments are beneath the dignity of the office. To be on foreign soil, on Memorial Day, and to side repeatedly with a murderous dictator against a fellow American and former Vice President speaks for itself. And its part of a pattern of embracing autocrats at the expense of our institutions whether taking Putins word at face value in Helsinki or exchanging love letters with Kim Jong Un. Read more from Yahoo News: By Jeff Mason and Malcolm Foster TOKYO (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday a deal with Iran on its nuclear programme was possible, crediting economic sanctions for curbing activities Washington has said are behind a spate of attacks in the Middle East. "I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal, and I think that's very smart of them, and I think that's a possibility to happen," Trump said during a news conference with Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo. "It has a chance to be a great country with the same leadership," Trump said. "We aren't looking for regime change - I just want to make that clear. We are looking for no nuclear weapons." In Tehran, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Iran was not seeking nuclear weapons, which its supreme leader had banned in an edict, adding on Twitter that U.S. policies were hurting the Iranian people and causing regional tensions. "Actionsnot wordswill show whether or not that's @realDonaldTrump's intent," Zarif said. President Hassan Rouhani said in October the United States was seeking "regime change" in Iran, adding that the current U.S. administration was the most hostile that the Islamic Republic had faced in its four decades. Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States after this month's attack on oil tankers in the Gulf region. Washington, a firm backer of Tehran's regional rival Saudi Arabia, has blamed the attacks on Iran, which denies the accusations. The United States has deployed a carrier strike group and bombers to the and announced plans to deploy 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict. Trump's national security adviser John Bolton said on Saturday that the United States had "deep and serious" intelligence on threats posed by Iran, without providing details. Trump, on a four-day visit to Japan, welcomed Abe's help in dealing with Iran after broadcaster NHK said Japan's leader is considering a trip to Tehran as early as mid-June. Iran said a visit was unlikely in the near future. Story continues "I know for a fact that the prime minister is very close with the leadership of Iran, and we'll see what happens," Trump said. At his joint news conference with Trump, Abe said Japan would do what it can on the Iran issue. Trump last year withdrew the United States from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, and is ratcheting up sanctions seeking to end Iran's international sales of crude oil and strangle its economy. Japan was a major buyer of Iranian oil for decades before U.S. sanctions which Trump said were taking effect. "They were fighting in many locations," he said of Iran. "Now they are pulling back because they have serious economic problems." Bolton, who has spearheaded an increasingly hawkish U.S. policy on Iran, described recent bomb attacks on tankers off the United Arab Emirates and a pipeline pumping station in Saudi Arabia, as well as a rocket attack in Baghdad's Green Zone, as "manifestations of concern" about Iran. Iran has distanced itself from the bombings and on Sunday, Zarif said his country will defend itself against any military or economic aggression. (Additional reporting by Tim Kelly, and Dubai newsroom; Writing by Tim Kelly and Malcolm Foster; editing by Darren Schuettler and Howard Goller) DOHA (Reuters) - Trump's national security adviser John Bolton arrived in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday ahead of talks scheduled for Wednesday, he said in tweet, amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran. "Just landed in the UAE. Looking forward to meeting with our Emirati allies tomorrow to discuss important and timely regional security matters," Bolton posted on Twitter. Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States after an attack this month on oil tankers in the Gulf. Washington, a close ally of Iran's regional rivals Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, blamed the attacks on Tehran, which denied the accusations. Bolton said last week that the United States had "deep and serious" intelligence on threats posed by Iran, without providing details. Washington has deployed a carrier strike group and bombers and announced plans to deploy 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict. Separately on Tuesday Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said his country was ready to engage in dialogue with Gulf Arab countries in order to address the escalating tensions during a visit to Doha, the final stop in a three-country tour that included Kuwait and Oman. Saudi Arabia will host two emergency Arab summits in Mecca on May 30 to discuss the implications of recent drone strikes on oil installations in the kingdom, and the vessel attacks off the UAE coast. (Reporting by Ali Abdelaty; Writing by Eric Knecht; Editing by Alison Williams) Tunis (AFP) - The controversial founder of a major private television channel in Tunisia has said he will run for presidency of the North African nation in November polls. Nabil Karoui, 50, announced his decision late Monday in a live interview with his broadcaster Nessma TV, playing up his highly-publicised charity work. Karoui is looking to take over from outgoing President Beji Caid Essesbi, 92, whom he backed during the last election in 2014. The media boss has been accused by regulators and some politicians of using Nessma to bolster his ambitions. Karoui has launched high-profile charity campaigns in recent years, handing out food and clothing in front of cameras from Nessma, which he launched in 2007. "I met people, I helped them, neighbourhood by neighbourhood," he said as he announced his candidacy. "I saw the difficulty in which these people live." Karoui said he had drawn together a group of experts to compile a programme and list of candidates for parliamentary elections in October. Tunisia's broadcast watchdog last year seized equipment from Nessma after accusing it of trying to "influence" state bodies. Essebsi, Tunisia's first democratically elected president, said in April he did not plan to stand for re-election but would make way for someone younger. Tunisia, whose 2011 revolt toppled longtime dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and sparked the Arab Spring uprisings, has been hailed as a model of democratisation in the Arab world despite suffering economic woes and jihadist attacks. None of the country's main political parties have yet announced their candidates for the presidential polls. May 28 (Reuters) - U.S. auto sales are expected to drop 2.1% in May from the year-ago period, as higher prices keep buyers at bay, according to industry consultants J.D. Power and LMC Automotive. The consultancies see total U.S. vehicle sales of about 1.56 million units in the month, with retail sales of new vehicles expected to drop 3.1% to 1,226,800 units. Higher prices have led to a soft demand for new vehicles, outweighing the strong economy and record-high consumer sentiment that otherwise should boost growth in U.S. auto sales. "Manufacturers are responding with larger discounts to take advantage of the Memorial Day weekend which is one of the busiest car-buying periods of the year," Thomas King, senior vice president of the data and analytics division at J.D. Power, said. Average incentive spending per unit to date in May is $3,722, up from $3,697 last year. Sales of used vehicles, however, remain strong, offsetting challenges in new vehicle operations for many dealers. For manufacturers, despite lower volumes, higher prices are delivering a rise in net revenue. New vehicle prices are on pace to reach $33,457 in May - a month high and up more than 4% from last year, primarily due to weakness at lower price points, according to the report. "Looking forward, elevated inventory levels remain an issue that will only be corrected through production cuts or higher incentives," King said. LMC Automotive, however, maintained its forecast for total light-vehicle sales of 16.9 million units in 2019, a 2.5% fall from 2018. (Reporting by Sanjana Shivdas in Bengaluru; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli) MOSCOW, May 28 (Reuters) - U.S. Ambassador to Russia Jon Huntsman will boycott a flagship investor forum in St Petersburg this summer to protest against Moscow's prosecution of prominent U.S. investor Michael Calvey, a State Department spokeswoman said on Tuesday. Calvey, founder of the Baring Vostok private equity group, was detained in February pending a trial on embezzlement charges. He denies wrongdoing and says the case is a way of pressuring him in a dispute over control of a Russian bank. The case has rattled Russia's business community despite a court last month releasing Calvey from jail and placing him under house arrest. "As (ambassador Huntsman) has said many times, it would be difficult for him to attend while ... Calvey is being detained and charged in a criminal court for issues related to a business dispute," the spokeswoman said. The U.S. embassy in Moscow did not plan to send any representatives and nor did the U.S. government intend to send anyone from Washington, she said. The St Petersburg International Economic Forum is attended by President Vladimir Putin annually. Held in July, it is one of Russia's most high-profile business events and Moscow uses it to burnish the country's image as an investment destination. (Reporting by Andrew Osborn; writing by Tom Balmforth; editing by Andrew Osborn) MOSCOW (Reuters) - U.S. Ambassador to Russia Jon Huntsman will boycott a flagship investor forum in St Petersburg this summer to protest against Moscow's prosecution of prominent U.S. investor Michael Calvey, a State Department spokeswoman said on Tuesday. Calvey, founder of the Baring Vostok private equity group, was detained in February pending a trial on embezzlement charges. He denies wrongdoing and says the case is a way of pressuring him in a dispute over control of a Russian bank. The case has rattled Russia's business community despite a court last month releasing Calvey from jail and placing him under house arrest. "As (ambassador Huntsman) has said many times, it would be difficult for him to attend while ... Calvey is being detained and charged in a criminal court for issues related to a business dispute," the spokeswoman said. The U.S. embassy in Moscow did not plan to send any representatives and nor did the U.S. government intend to send anyone from Washington, she said. The St Petersburg International Economic Forum is attended by President Vladimir Putin annually. Held in July, it is one of Russia's most high-profile business events and Moscow uses it to burnish the country's image as an investment destination. (Reporting by Andrew Osborn; writing by Tom Balmforth; editing by Andrew Osborn) WASHINGTON, May 28 (Reuters) - The United States continues to be alarmed by Syrian government and Russian air strikes in northern Syria, saying recent attacks have more than 200 civilians, the State Department said on Tuesday. "Indiscriminate attacks on civilians and public infrastructure such as schools, markets and hospitals is a reckless escalation of the conflict and is unacceptable," said State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus. (Reporting by David Brunnstrom and Doina Chiacu; editing by Grant McCool) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States continues to be alarmed by Syrian government and Russian air strikes in northwest Syria and believes they are a "reckless escalation" of violence, the State Department said on Tuesday. Government air strikes, backed by Russia, have focused on the south of Idlib province and nearby parts of Hama, uprooting nearly 250,000 people. The bombing has killed 229 civilians and injured 727 others, according to the UOSSM medical charity. "Indiscriminate attacks on civilians and public infrastructure such as schools, markets and hospitals is a reckless escalation of the conflict and is unacceptable," said State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus. "The violence must end," Ortagus said. Hundreds of members of the U.S. Congress signed a letter to President Donald Trump last week arguing that the United States should remain engaged with the conflict in Syria, saying they were "deeply concerned" about extremist groups in the country. Many U.S. lawmakers, Trump's fellow Republicans as well as Democrats, have been deeply concerned about Syria policy since December, when Trump decided to withdraw all 2,000 U.S. troops from Syria. Trump later agreed to leave a small U.S. presence to help keep pressure on Islamic State. (Reporting by David Brunnstrom and Doina Chiacu; editing by Grant McCool) By Humeyra Pamuk and Phil Stewart WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States is seriously considering suspending training for Turkish pilots on advanced F-35 fighter jets as Ankara moves ahead with plans to purchase a Russian missile defense system despite objections from Washington, sources told Reuters on Tuesday. The two NATO allies have argued for months over Turkey's order for the Russian S-400 defenses, which Washington says are incompatible with the Western alliance's defense network and would pose a threat to American F-35 stealth fighters which Turkey also plans to buy. The two sources, who are familiar with Turkey's role in the F-35 program and who spoke on condition of anonymity, said a final decision had not yet been made. The deliberation follows signs that Turkey is moving ahead with the S-400 purchase. Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said on May 22 that Turkish military personnel were receiving training in Russia to use the S-400, and said Russian personnel may come to Turkey. Turkish pilots have also been training at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona. It was unclear whether a decision to suspend their training would mean they would have to leave the country, or would be allowed to remain at the base until a final decision is made about Turkey's future in the F-35 program. The United States has said plainly that Turkey cannot have the S-400 and be part of the F-35 program. The F-35 is made by Lockheed Martin Corp. If Turkey was removed from the program, it would be one of the most significant ruptures in recent history in the relationship between the two allies, experts say. "Washington is signaling that while it would rather not break military ties with Turkey, it is ready to do so if Ankara does not change its mind regarding the S-400 purchase," said Soner Cagaptay, director of the Turkish program at the Washington Institute. Strains in ties between Washington and Ankara already extend beyond the F-35 to include conflicting strategy in Syria, Iran sanctions and the detention of U.S. consular staff in Turkey. DONE DEAL The Pentagon and State Department declined to comment on any deliberations about the pilots. But Pentagon spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Mike Andrews noted discussions are taking place with Ankara on potentially buying the Patriot missile defense system. Andrews said the Patriot system, made by Raytheon Co., "remains a robust, NATO-interoperable alternative to the S-400 for (Turkey's) national defense requirements." On Monday, Turkish broadcaster Haberturk quoted Akar as saying in an interview that the delivery of the S-400 may not happen in June, when Turkey previously said the missiles were due to arrive. He added the agreement was a done deal, however. "They may not make it by June but they will come in the months ahead. The process has begun," he was quoted as saying. Objecting to Ankara's planned Russian defense purchase, the United States in late March halted delivery of equipment related to the F-35 to Turkey, which is both a buyer and a production partner in the program. The move was the first concrete step of what could eventually be the full removal of Turkey from the F-35 program. The United States has warned that if Turkey takes delivery of the Russian system, it will also trigger U.S. sanctions under CATSAA, a law calling for sanctions against countries procuring military equipment from Russia. Turkey has said that as a NATO member it poses no threat to the United States and the sanctions should not apply. Ankara has also increasingly pinned its hopes on President Donald Trump to protect it from such penalties. U.S. officials have called Turkey's planned purchase of the S-400 system "deeply problematic." Washington and other NATO allies that own F-35s fear the system's radar will learn how to spot and track the jet, making it less able to evade Russian weapons. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Phil Stewart; editing by Tom Brown, Jonathan Oatis and Sonya Hepinstall) WASHINGTON, May 28 (Reuters) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday preserved a Pennsylvania school district's policy accommodating transgender students, declining to hear a challenge backed by a conservative Christian group to rules letting them use bathrooms matching their gender identity. The justices left in place a 2018 lower court ruling that upheld the Boyertown Area School District policy, which was challenged by six former or current high school students, though the action does not set a national legal precedent. The Supreme Court scrapped plans to hear a major transgender rights case involving bathroom access in public schools in 2017 and has never issued a decisive ruling on the matter. (Reporting by Andrew Chung; Editing by Will Dunham) WASHINGTON, May 28 (Reuters) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to decide whether the family of a Mexican teenager fatally shot while on Mexican soil by U.S. Border Patrol agent who fired from across the border in Texas can pursue a civil rights lawsuit in U.S. courts. It marks the second time the Supreme Court will consider the legal dispute involving Sergio Adrian Hernandez Guereca, who was 15 when he was slain in 2010 along the U.S.-Mexico border - a case that now will be decided during heightened U.S. tensions with Mexico over President Donald Trump's border policies. The justices will decide whether to allow the family's civil lawsuit seeking monetary damages against Border Patrol agent Jesus Mesa to proceed. (Reporting by Lawrence Hurley; Editing by Will Dunham) By Lawrence Hurley WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday sent a mixed message on abortion, refusing to consider reinstating Indiana's ban on abortions performed because of foetal disability or the sex or race of the foetus while upholding the state's requirement that foetal remains be buried or cremated after the procedure is done. Both provisions were part of a Republican-backed 2016 law signed by Vice President Mike Pence when he was Indiana's governor. The action by the justices comes at a time when numerous Republican-governed states including Alabama are approving restrictive abortion laws that the Supreme Court may be called upon to rule on in the future. In an unsigned ruling, with two liberal justices dissenting, the Supreme Court decided that a lower court was wrong to conclude that Indiana's foetal burial provision, which imposed new requirements on abortion clinics, had no legitimate purpose. The court has a 5-4 conservative majority. While that provision was not a direct challenge to the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide, the ruling gave anti-abortion proponents a victory at the Supreme Court, which soon may have to decide whether various state laws violate the rights recognised in that landmark ruling. But the court also indicated a reluctance to directly tackle the abortion issue at least for now, rejecting Indiana's separate attempt to reinstate its ban on abortions performed because of foetal disability or the sex or race of the foetus. The court left in place the part of an appeals court ruling that struck down the provision. Alyssa Farah, a Pence spokeswoman, said he "commends the Supreme Court for upholding a portion of Indiana law that safeguards the sanctity of human life by requiring that remains of aborted babies be treated with respect and dignity." "We remain hopeful that at a later date the Supreme Court will review one of numerous state laws across the U.S. that bar abortion based on sex, race or disability," Farah added. Story continues The court's ruling on the foetal burial issue noted that in challenging the measure the American Civil Liberties Union and women's healthcare and abortion provider Planned Parenthood did not allege that the provision implicated the right of women to obtain an abortion. "This case, as litigated, therefore does not implicate our cases applying the undue burden test to abortion regulations," the ruling said. Planned Parenthood said in a statement the foetal burial provision was an abortion restriction "intended to shame and stigmatize women and families." "While this ruling is limited, the law is part of a larger trend of state laws designed to stigmatize and drive abortion care out of reach. Whether it's a total ban or a law designed to shut down clinics, politicians are lining up to decimate access to abortion," added Jennifer Dalven, an American Civil Liberties Union lawyer. A TEST FOR THE COURT The case was one of the court's first major tests in the abortion context following last year's retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy, who was pivotal in defending abortion rights. Anti-abortion activists hope the high court will greatly narrow or even overturn the Roe ruling following Kennedy's departure. President Donald Trump replaced Kennedy with conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Liberal Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor said they disagreed with the Supreme Court's decision to reinstate Indiana's foetal remains provision. Conservative Justice Clarence Thomas wrote in a concurring opinion accompanying the ruling that the court will need to weigh in on whether states can ban abortions based on disability, race and gender. Indiana's law promotes "a state's compelling interest in preventing abortion from becoming a tool of modern-day eugenics," Thomas wrote. Alabama, Georgia, Missouri, Mississippi and other states have passed restrictive abortion laws in recent months. The Chicago-based 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a 2017 permanent injunction issued by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt against both provisions of Indiana's law. She found the measure violated the constitutional privacy rights recognised in the 1973 abortion ruling. The law forbade women from obtaining an abortion if the decision to terminate the pregnancy was based on a diagnosis or "potential diagnosis" of foetal abnormality such as Down syndrome or "any other disability" or due to the race, colour, national origin ancestry or sex of the foetus. Indiana said the state has an interest in barring discrimination against foetuses and in protecting the "dignity of foetal remains." "The highest court in the land has now affirmed that nothing in the Constitution prohibits states from requiring abortion clinics to provide an element of basic human dignity in disposing of the foetuses they abort. These tiny bodies are, after all, human remains," Indiana's Republican Attorney General, Curtis Hill, said. A similar foetal burial law from Minnesota was upheld by a federal appeals court in 1990 but the Indiana law and another like it in Texas, enacted in 2016, have been struck down by the courts. Several other abortion cases are heading toward the high court, including Indiana's appeal seeking to revive another law that requires women to undergo an ultrasound at least 18 hours before they undergo an abortion. For a Reuters graphic on abortion laws in the United States, click https://tmsnrt.rs/2WZuiVP (Reporting by Lawrence Hurley; Editing by Will Dunham) LONDON (Reuters) - Britain's equality watchdog said on Tuesday it was launching a formal investigation to determine whether Jeremy Corbyn's Labour Party has discriminated against, harassed or victimized people because they are Jewish. Labour, Britain's main opposition party, has promised to co-operate fully with the investigation, it added. "We contacted Labour after receiving a number of complaints about allegations of antisemitism in the party," the Equality and Human Rights Commission said in a statement. "We have carefully considered the response we received from the Party and have now opened a formal investigation ... to further examine the concerns." Labour has faced accusations of antisemitism for over two years and consistently denies them. Nine lawmakers quit the party in February, citing the leadership's handling of the accusations, as well as its Brexit stance, as their reason for leaving. In the same month, Labour suspended one of its lawmakers and said it would investigate his conduct after he said the party had been "too apologetic" in the long-running row. A veteran campaigner for Palestinian rights, Corbyn, had been criticized by members, lawmakers and Jewish leaders for not fully adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of antisemitism. Last September, the party agreed to adopt the definition. (Reporting by Stephen Addison; editing by Kate Holton) KIEV, May 28 (Reuters) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Tuesday appointed former finance minister Oleksandr Danylyuk as the top official of the body responsible for coordinating national security. The national security and defense council comprises ministers, senior lawmakers and top regional officials and is chaired by the president. Danylyuk's appointment, confirmed in a decree published on the presidential website, could be welcomed by investors. He pushed reforms and cooperation with the International Monetary Fund while finance minister between 2016-2018. Zelenskiy also restored Ukrainian citizenship to former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili, who was stripped of it under Zelenskiy's predecessor Petro Poroshenko after a political row. (Reporting by Natalia Zinets; writing by Matthias Williams; editing by John Stonestreet) United Nations (United States) (AFP) - About 80 countries have signaled that they are willing to scale up their commitment to cut carbon emissions under the Paris agreement to combat climate change, the UN climate envoy said Tuesday. Under the landmark deal, countries agreed to announce by 2020 new efforts to strengthen their national plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a bid to limit global temperature rise. UN climate envoy Luis Alfonso de Alba told journalists that "80 is the number of countries (from) which we have already received a signal that they are willing" to enhance their plans. "But it doesn't mean that they are willing to do that to the scale we need," he added. The United Nations is pushing for stronger action on climate change in the face of new scientific data showing that current efforts fall well short of the goal of containing global warming. "We need to step up ambition quite radically. We are not talking about a small incremental approach, but rather a quite drastic increase," said De Alba. A total of 197 parties have signed the Paris agreement, of which 186 have ratified it. The United States under Donald Trump decided to pull out of the deal, but the withdrawal will only become effective in 2020. De Alba was in Washington last week to meet with US officials ahead of a major UN climate summit in New York in September that some hope will be a turning point. The climate envoy said he held "very positive" meetings with US administration officials, who encouraged the United Nations to push other countries to do more even if the United States is pulling back. "They agree that a lot more needs to be done," said De Alba of his meetings in Washington. "They are waiting for those countries to do it." The United States is the world's biggest polluter after China. At the UN summit, about 20-30 countries will be chosen to be in the spotlight for their ambitious plans. The UN is pressing governments to commit to a 45 percent cut in greenhouse gas emissions over the next decade and to become carbon-neutral by 2050. The US State Department said Tuesday that North Korea's overall program of weapons of mass destruction violated UN resolutions, after President Donald Trump brushed off recent missile launches. Choosing words carefully after Trump's latest warm words for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus declined to say if North Korea's launches were of ballistic missiles or constituted weapons of mass destruction (WMD). "I think the entire North Korean WMD program, it's in conflict with the UN Security (Council) resolutions," Ortagus told reporters. She said the United States wanted a favorable relationship between Trump and Kim with a goal to "negotiate a peaceful end to the North Korean WMD program." "We have said many times and we will continue to reiterate that the economic sanctions will remain in place until we're there," she said. When he arrived in Japan for a weekend state visit, Trump tweeted that North Korea had tested "some small weapons" that had "disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me." He appeared to be referring to his National Security Advisor John Bolton, who said Saturday there was "no doubt" that North Korea's launches had contravened United Nations Security Council resolutions. North Korea wasted no time piling onto Bolton, who has long promoted a hawkish foreign policy, calling him a "human defect" and "war maniac." North Korea has previously called for Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to be excluded from negotiations after he apparently pressed Trump at his February summit with Kim in Hanoi not to accept sanctions relief without further action by Pyongyang in ending its nuclear program. Washington (AFP) - The US Supreme Court weighed in on the explosive issue of abortion on Tuesday, upholding part of an Indiana law that requires the remains of aborted fetuses to be cremated or buried but sidestepping a separate case on the legality of the procedure. The decision by the high court not to take up the wider case means the hot-button issue will remain off its agenda for now, even as activists push for a showdown over the nationwide right to an abortion. The two Indiana cases were being closely watched as an indicator of how the top court -- which now has a conservative majority -- may eventually decide the divisive issue. They both revolve around different parts of a law signed by then-Indiana governor Mike Pence -- now the vice president. In the first case, the Supreme Court upheld the portion requiring that fetal remains be disposed of in the same manner as human remains and not as medical waste. In a 7-2 decision, the court said the clause does not impose "an undue burden on a woman's right to obtain an abortion." The other section of the law would prevent a woman from having an abortion based on the gender, race or disability of the fetus. An appeals court struck down the law, and the Supreme Court said it would wait until other courts rule on the question before weighing in. "We follow our ordinary practice of denying petitions insofar as they raise legal issues that have not been considered by additional Courts of Appeals," it said. Republican-led legislatures in several US states have passed bills restricting abortion access in a bid to eventually challenge the 1973 US Supreme Court ruling in Roe vs Wade, which made abortion legal nationwide. The southern state of Alabama passed a bill this month that amounts to a near-total ban on ending a pregnancy, even in cases of rape and incest. Performing an abortion would be a crime that could land doctors in prison for 10 to 99 years. Abortions would only be legal if the life of the mother is in danger or the fetus has a fatal condition. Since taking office, President Donald Trump has appointed two conservative justices -- Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh -- and liberal members of the court are now outnumbered five to four. Conservative-leaning Chief Justice John Roberts is seen as the potential swing vote if the constitutionality of abortion eventually comes before the court. Florence was repeatedly brought in for emergency treatment. (SSPCA) A veterinary nurse who deliberately poisoned her dog but escaped a jail sentence has been struck off. Georgina Bretman injected her black-and-white cocker spaniel Florence with insulin in 2013, causing the animal to suffer hypoglycaemia, collapse, convulsions and seizures. The damage was so severe that the then two-year-old dog could have fallen into a coma or died. Vets at the out-of-hours practise in Glasgow where Miss Bretman worked became suspicious after Florence was brought in for emergency treatment on several separate occasions, always suffering from the same unusual symptoms. She was taken to court in 2017, once her colleagues alerted the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA). Although no explanation was offered as to why she harmed her pet, Glasgow Sheriff Court was told that she was an attention-seeker. Georgina Bretman was labeled an "attention-seeker". (Instagram) Following her conviction, Miss Bretman was sentenced to a Community Payback Order, with a requirement to carry out 140 hours of unpaid work, and an order was made to take Florence away from her and to ban her from owning a dog for two years. She has now been removed from the Royal Veterinary College of Surgeons (RVCS) list as a registered nurse by the Disciplinary Committee. In their decision report, they said: The Committee recognised the impact this was likely to have on Miss Bretman, which was unfortunate given her young age and her obvious passion for a career as a veterinary nurse. However the need to protect animal welfare, the reputation of the profession and thus the wider public interest, outweighed Miss Bretmans interests and the Committee concluded that removal was the only appropriate and proportionate sanction in this case. SSPCA chief superintendent Mike Flynn said: Bretman caused deliberate distress and suffering to her dog, Florence. We are glad this case has been taken seriously by RCSV and this decision has been made. Once Florence was removed from Miss Bretmans ownership, she recovered fully in a new home where she is reportedly very happy and has no lasting consequences. By James Pomfret HONG KONG (Reuters) - Veteran Hong Kong democracy campaigner and Baptist cleric Chu Yiu-ming was in his mid-40s when he joined demonstrators around Beijing's Tiananmen Square in 1989, just before a bloody crackdown that roiled China. Thirty years later, the political landscape appears even bleaker to Chu, who helped smuggle out dissidents after the bloodshed, and helped lead pro-democracy protests in 2014 that blocked major roads in Hong Kong for months. Under President Xi Jinping, Chinese authorities have clamped down hard on rights lawyers, activists, Muslim minority Uighurs in the far western region of Xinjiang and Chu's home city of Hong Kong. "Regarding China's political situation, I feel even more pessimistic," the silver-haired Chu told Reuters while seated in a wooden pew in his Hong Kong church. "The students back then were opposing corruption but now things are more serious than in 1989." The June 4 events remain a taboo topic, censored by the government, which has never given an official account of the killings, released a death toll or investigated those responsible. Witnesses and rights groups say hundreds, perhaps thousands, were killed and wounded. In Hong Kong, where a gritty opposition has agitated for full democracy since the British colony reverted to Chinese rule in 1997, Chu is considered a more measured democratic voice. But this year, he was convicted on a public nuisance charge for helping to organise the "Umbrella Revolution" protests of 2014 and received a 16-month jail term, suspended because of his poor health. In a speech from the dock, Chu, 75, said that in this "last mile" of his life, he would continue to fight for justice. "Ours is an age of absurdity," he told the court. "Living in a society on the brink of authoritarianism and of arbitrary rule, let me be a brave bell toller, ringing, waking up sleepy souls." Story continues OPERATION YELLOWBIRD After the troops of the People's Liberation Army crushed the democracy movement in 1989, calling it a counter-revolutionary plot, more than a million outraged Hong Kong residents spilled into the streets in mass protests. A small group of activists, businessmen and gangsters organised a covert effort, Operation Yellowbird, to smuggle hundreds of students and activists out of mainland China, sometimes using high-powered speedboats. About 400 dissidents escaped, passing through Hong Kong en route to Western nations such as Canada, France and the United States. Chu helped with the diplomatic negotiations, while British authorities allowed fugitives to stay in Hong Kong until they received asylum abroad. Chu believes that even in the face of authoritarian power, there remains hope for change and progress, as symbolised by Hong Kong's refusal to forget. He has long attended the city's annual candlelight vigil for the victims of June 4, saying it helps preserve the "historical truth" of Tiananmen in the face of blanket Chinese censorship. "Many Chinese officials come to see me and ask me, 'Can't you stop holding the vigil?. And I tell them, 'No'. Until the dictatorship apologises, this candlelight will continue to make their conscience uncomfortable." (Additional reporting by Jessie Pang; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) Hanoi (AFP) - A Vietnamese man has been sentenced to six years in jail for terrorism and weapons possession after he was convicted for smuggling a cache of guns into the country from Cambodia, a court official said Tuesday. Terror-related crimes are rare in the one-party communist state, where a hardline administration in charge since 2016 has waged a crackdown on critics, jailing dozens last year alone. Le Quoc Binh was arrested in August ahead of Vietnam's national day in central Binh Dinh province carrying seven rifles and 500 bullets that he smuggled in from Cambodia. A court on Monday sentenced him to one year in jail for allegedly planning an attack and another five years for weapons possession, according to a court clerk and state media. "Binh used Facebook to share and popularise the use of weapons and violence against the state," according to a report from Bao Ve Phap Luat, the official mouthpiece of the national procuracy office. The report said Binh was disgruntled because his family was relocated from their land in south-central Quy Nhon city and were unfairly compensated. The official Vietnam News Agency said Binh travelled to Cambodia several times between June and August 2018 to procure weapons. It added Binh asked for leniency in court before his sentence was announced. Weapons are not widely available in Vietnam and violent terror-related attacks are extremely rare. Seven people were arrested last year, including three on terrorism charges, for bombing a police station in Ho Chi Minh City just days after widespread economic protests rocked the country. The demonstrators opposed a draft law for special economic zones that some feared would be taken over by Chinese investors, though Beijing was not named in the proposal. In 2017, 15 people were jailed for a foiled petrol bomb attack at Ho Chi Minh's main airport, the busiest in the country. Though terror attacks are not common, Vietnam routinely jails dissidents and activists, with at least 128 prisoners of conscience currently behind bars, according to a report from Amnesty International this month. Click the photo to write a caption and have a chance to win a free subscription to the Norfolk Daily News. Through Her Eyes is a weekly show hosted by human rights activist Zainab Salbi that explores contemporary news issues from a female perspective. You can watch the full episode of Through Her Eyes every Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET on Roku. Award-winning actress Viola Davis has a piece of advice for white women: Get to know me. As an African-American actress in an industry thats still predominantly white, Davis is pushing to change how women of color are portrayed in film and television and how white women perceive their own privilege. Sometimes privilege is seen very differently, Davis said in an interview with Yahoo Newss show Through Her Eyes. Sometimes, for instance, beauty and how femininity is seen. The sort of damsel in distress and the woman that needs to be saved sometimes does not have the face of a woman of color. But Davis does see a path forward: empathy and becoming educated on one anothers experiences. Know that my journey is different than your journey, Davis implored. But we're in it together. We really are. Despite being the first African-American to win the Triple Crown of Acting a Tony, an Emmy and an Oscar success didnt come easy to the 53-year-old actress. Davis endured abject poverty as a child growing up in Central Falls, R.I., where she lived in a rat-infested home and didnt always have enough food to eat. But Davis told Through Her Eyes that one of the worst parts of poverty was the anonymity and the feeling of being rejected by society. The one thing that I learned when I was poor and this is something that people just need to say out loud is that you are invisible, she recalled. Nobody sees you because you have access to nothing. And Davis is still living with the consequences of poverty. Several years ago, she was diagnosed with prediabetes an experience she talks about in a new documentary called A Touch of Sugar. Although people of all socio-economic backgrounds are at risk, Davis points out that so-called food deserts areas with no access to fresh, organic foods make poorer communities especially susceptible to the disease. Story continues I've seen my whole family suffer from this disease. I saw a great aunt die from it, her legs amputated, and she lived for decades in a wheelchair, Davis recalled. She just sort of accepted her fate, as did my grandmother. I said, am I just gonna have the same fate as my aunt, not knowing that there's a way to manage and live with the disease? Davis admitted that the diagnosis scared her it meant she may not be around for her daughter, 8-year-old Genesis. Davis adopted Genesis with her husband in 2011, and says the biggest lesson she could impart to her daughter is love. I'm always gonna love her, Davis said, no matter who she is, no matter what she is. And I think that there's a lot that you can do in your life when you know that you're loved. Listen to the full episode on the Through Her Eyes podcast, and listen to past interviews with Queen Latifah, Aly Raisman, and more from season 1. VMware VMW is set to release first-quarter fiscal 2020 results on May 30. The companys earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the trailing four quarters, the average positive surprise being 5.9%. In the last reported quarter, VMware benefited from strong top-line growth that was primarily driven by robust performance from NSX, VeloCloud and vSAN product lines. For first-quarter fiscal 2020, management anticipates revenues to be $2.25 billion, up 11.8% from the year-ago quarters reported figure. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues currently stands at $2.24 billion, indicating 11.8% growth from the figure reported in the year-ago quarter. Non-GAAP earnings are anticipated to be $1.27 per share. The consensus mark for earnings has remained steady over the past 30 days and suggests growth of 0.8% from the figure reported in the year-ago quarter. VMware, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise VMware, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise VMware, Inc. price-eps-surprise | VMware, Inc. Quote Lets see how things are shaping up for this announcement. Factors to Watch VMware is benefiting from continued enterprise deal wins that are expected to drive growth in the to-be-reported quarter. The company closed 23 deals in the last reported quarter that were worth more than $10 million. During the quarter, Abu Dhabi Smart Solutions and Services Authority (ADSSSA) announced a collaboration with VMware that will enable the former to use a number of VMware solutions. The companys dominance in software-defined data center (SDDC) space along with expanding customer base in cloud, driven by partnerships with the likes of IBM, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Alibaba, is a positive. VMwares NSX solution has also gained significant adoption due to strong demand for automation and cloud-native workloads for SD-WAN. Further, strong End-User Computing (EUC) license bookings, driven by Workspace ONE, are a major growth driver. Notably, VMware exited fourth-quarter fiscal 2018 with $147 million of license backlog, which was $3 million higher on a sequential basis. Expanding Portfolio During the to-be-reported quarter, the company launched an updated VMware vRealize cloud management platform, targeting the hybrid cloud computing space. The company also announced updates to VMware Cloud Foundation, VMware vCloud Director and CloudHealth. The company also announced increased access to Cloud Foundation-based services through the new VMware Cloud in AWS regions in Canada, Paris and Singapore, and for VMware Cloud Verified partners globally. The company also launched a new VMware Service-defined Firewall in the quarter. Microsoft Partners Dell & VMware Microsoft MSFT extended a partnership with Dell Technologies DELL that now involves VMware. Notably, Dell has a majority stake in VMware. The deal will enable VMware customers to move their technology systems to Microsoft Azure cloud-computing platform. The partnership will help Microsoft fight AWS in the rapidly growing hybrid cloud computing market. VMware and Microsoft also agreed to integrate their networking software. However, since the deal was signed late in the quarter, it will have no material impact on VMwares to-be-reported quarterly results. What Our Model Says According to the Zacks model, a company with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) along with a positive Earnings ESP has a good chance of beating estimates. The Sell-rated stocks (Zacks Rank #4 or 5) are best avoided. VMware has a Zacks Rank #3 and an Earnings ESP of 0.00%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell, before theyre reported, with our Earnings ESP Filter. Stock with a Favorable Combination Here is a stock you may want to consider as our model shows that it has the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat. Science Applications International SAIC has an Earnings ESP of +8.50% and a Zacks Rank #1. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. 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 Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) : Free Stock Analysis Report Dell Technologies Inc. (DELL) : Free Stock Analysis Report VMware, Inc. (VMW) : Free Stock Analysis Report Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research By Anne Marie Roantree HONG KONG (Reuters) - The United States has warned Hong Kong to be on alert for a vessel carrying Iranian petroleum that may seek to stop in the Asia financial hub, and said that any entity providing services to the vessel will be violating U.S. sanctions. The news comes two weeks after U.S. President Donald Trumps administration stepped up moves to choke off Irans oil exports by scrapping waivers it had granted to big buyers of Iranian crude oil, including China. The fully laden Pacific Bravo abruptly changed course on Monday to head toward Sri Lanka, according to shipping data on Refinitiv Eikon. Its destination was originally set for Indonesia, according to ship-tracking data, but industry sources said it was most likely going to China. "Anyone who does business with this ship, the Pacific Bravo, would be exposing themselves to U.S. sanctions," a senior U.S. official said on condition of anonymity. ] The Pacific Bravo is owned by China's Bank of Kunlun, the official said. The bank has been the main official channel for money flows between China and Iran since before the last round of sanctions began in 2012. It is majority-owned by China National Petroleum Corp's listed financial arm, CNPC Capital. China is the top buyer of Iranian oil and nearly all its oil payments go through Kunlun, which was established in 2006 as a city commercial bank in Karamay, an oil-producing hub in Chinas far-western Xinjiang region. Kunlun could not immediately be reached for comment. Earlier this month, Reuters reported that a tanker carrying Iranian fuel oil in violation of U.S. sanctions had unloaded the cargo into storage tanks near the Chinese city of Zhoushan. The U.S. government re-introduced sanctions against Irans oil industry in November. It still allows limited purchases of Iranian crude oil, but petroleum products have not received official sanctions waivers. "I think its critical for the Hong Kong Marine Authority to ensure it knows who its allowing into its territorial waters, into the Hong Kong port, and to ensure that it knows who Hong Kong entities are providing services to," the U.S. official said. "Were going to enforce our Iran sanctions quite aggressively and quite consistently." The Hong Kong Marine Authority was not available to comment outside of business hours. (Reporting By Anne Marie Roantree; additional reporting by Roslan Khasawneh; editing by Larry King) There's already a packed field for the Conservative leadership including (left to right) Boris Johnson, Esther McVey, Jeremy Hunt, Dominic Raab and Rory Stewart. Less than one week on from Theresa Mays resignation things are hotting up in the Conservative leadership race. Frontrunner Boris Johnson has, so far, said little and a host of rivals have already thrown their hats into the ring in a bid to take their place in 10 Downing Street. Following a disastrous EU elections for the party we look at the runners and riders, and where they stand on the Brexit question. Former mayor of London and foreign secretary, Boris Johnson. Who is seen by many to become the next Tory leader. (AP) Boris Johnson Boris, who famously campaigned for Leave, has been given odds of 17/10 at the time of writing. Hes taken a hard line and vowed that the UK will leave the EU in October, with or without a deal. Hes against the customs union but has been told the party would bring down any leader moving towards a hard, no deal Brexit. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt jogging near the foreign secretary's residence in London, after he launched his bid become leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister this weekend. Jeremy Hunt The foreign secretary campaigned under the Remain banner in 2016. He confirmed his leadership challenge early and has been seen as one of the strongest stop Boris candidates. Increasingly Eurosceptic he has urged parliament to reach a deal. Former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab at 'A Better Deal' event at the British Academy, London, outlining opportunities if Parliament rejects the Government's proposed deal, ahead of the House of Commons vote on the Prime Minister's Brexit deal. Dominic Raab Former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab quit his role arguing he could not do his job working towards Mrs Mays doomed deal. A Leave backing MP he has spoken frequently in the benefits no deal could bring. He said he would be resolute in pursuing Brexit and said MPs would not be able to prevent him pushing through a no deal policy. Leader of the House of Commons Andrea Leadsom arrives for a cabinet meeting at 10 Downing Street, London, on the first day that MPs return from their Easter break. Andrea Leadsom She withdrew from the race in 2016 making Mrs May leader by default. The staunch Brexiteer says she has more experience and is ready to lead the country. She has gone on record as saying Britain must leave the EU on October 31 at all costs. Home Secretary Sajid Javid during a speech on counter terrorism in London. Sajid Javid In a less than conventional approach the Home Secretary announced his leadership bid through his local paper, the Bromsgrove Standard. Mr Javid backed Remain in 2016 but has said government must deliver Brexit. He has recently said a no deal Brexit would not harm Britain. Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Michael Gove addresses delegates during the Scottish Conservatives' annual party conference at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre. Michael Gove The Environment Secretary backed Leave in 2016. However, he remained loyal to Theresa Mays attempts at getting her deal through parliament until her resignation. Story continues He has repeatedly spoken about the potential impact on agriculture a no-deal approach could have, and supported the deal without a customs union. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Jeremy Hunt says no deal political suicide for Tories Albino panda caught on camera for first time Spice Girls fans demand refund over diabolical sound Former cabinet minister, Esther McVey, launches Blue Collar Conservatism at the Houses of Parliament in London today. Esther McVey The former work and pensions secretary has a hardline on Brexit. She believes the UK should leave the EU without a deal, with or without parliamentary support. She refused to back Theresa Mays deal in any of its three votes. File photo dated 23/04/19 of Matt Hancock who has warned Theresa May's successor must not risk calling a general election until Britain has left the EU. Matt Hancock The health secretary campaigned for Remain during the referendum. He has said he would not pursue a no deal Brexit and has stressed the need for compromise arguing market access must be balanced against any perceived improvements to sovereignty. Prisons minister Rory Stewart speaks to the media on College Green in Westminster, London. Rory Stewart Justice Secretary Rory Stewart has been described as the softest Brexiteer of the candidates to declare so far. Mr Stewart campaigned for remain and says the UK must leave with a deal. Housing minister Kit Malthouse in Westminster, London after he became the latest person to enter the race to succeed Theresa May as leader of the Conservative Party. PRESS ASSOCIATION. Picture date: Tuesday May 28, 2019. Photo credit should read: Isabel Infantes/PA Wire Kit Malthouse Kit Malthouse was Boris Johnsons deputy when he was mayor of London. A Leave voter he united both sides of the debate for the so-called Malthouse Compromise in a bid to help the UK leave the EU but with a deal. The compromise failed. Washington (AFP) - While Democratic presidential hopefuls barnstorm through early voting states, the party's frontrunner for the nomination, Joe Biden, is working at a different pace altogether, rolling out his 2020 campaign in limited stages and to moderate numbers of voters. Despite Biden's sluggish start, President Donald Trump is already fixating on the former vice president as his main rival in next year's election, going so far as to invoke North Korea's dictator in tweets criticizing Biden. Biden didn't refer to the debacle during a teachers' union town hall that lasted more than an hour Tuesday in Houston, Texas, his first public campaign event in 10 days. But in a possible response to the growing criticism of his spotty public appearances, he announced several more campaign events to take place this week and published his first detailed policy proposals -- on education. When Biden does hit the trail, he routinely promises that "no one is going to work longer and campaign harder" to win voter trust and support in the run-up to 2020. But since officially launching his White House bid in April, the veteran Democrat has made fewer than a dozen campaign stops, and his team has routinely offered a daily update to reporters: "Joe Biden has no public events scheduled." During that period, Senator Cory Booker has crisscrossed Iowa in an RV camper; Bernie Sanders, number two in the Democratic polls, has campaigned in four states; and Senator Elizabeth Warren has held no less than eight public events, including four on Sunday. After his campaign kickoff rally on May 18 in Philadelphia, the 76-year-old Biden has largely kept his head down, attending fundraisers in Florida and Tennessee. Fundraisers are also set for this week in Texas. - 'Just wait and see' - While Biden has eased into the race, Trump has not hesitated to attack him, including sending eyebrow-raising tweets during his visit to Japan amid tensions with North Korea and its leader Kim Jong Un. Story continues Trump tweeted Saturday that he "smiled when (Kim) called Swampman Joe Biden a low IQ individual, & worse." On Tuesday, the Biden camp pushed back firmly, calling the president's comments "beneath the dignity of the office" and part of a pattern of Trump "embracing autocrats." "To be on foreign soil, on Memorial Day, and to side repeatedly with a murderous dictator against a fellow American and former Vice President speaks for itself," deputy campaign manager Kate Bedingfield said in a statement. A senior campaign official said the Biden team waited until after Memorial Day out of respect for the "sacred purpose" of the holiday that honors veterans." Trump hit back on Twitter, saying he "was actually sticking up for Sleepy Joe Biden while on foreign soil," and that "Kim Jong Un called him a 'low IQ idiot,' and many other things." Advisors have argued that because of his near-universal name recognition, and popularity within Democratic circles, Biden does not need to relentlessly introduce himself to voters, as several other candidates are doing. His commanding lead in early polling also signals that media attention will follow him wherever and whenever he hits the campaign trail. Biden senior advisor Symone Sanders said at the Philadelphia rally that the candidate will soon ramp up his campaigning. "He knows that folks have questions about his stamina, his ability to go long days, long nights," she said. "What he'll tell you is 'just watch, just wait and see.'" Several instances when Biden was deemed to have been too "tactile" with women threaten his bid, with some women denouncing his gestures as too affectionate. But despite the criticism, Biden held a 10-year-old girl by the shoulders at the teachers' town hall after she asked him a question and he told her: "I bet you're as bright as you're good looking." Shares in flight-simulator and pilot-training company CAE Inc. (NYSE: CAE) are up more than 40% year to date at this writing. The Canadian company's move has probably been driven by a combination of strong ongoing earnings, a buoyant civil aviation market, and market recognition of the company's long-term and near-term growth potential. Let's take a look at why this aviation safety specialist has done so well, and at whether its growth can continue. Flight attendants looking at a pilot There's huge demand for new pilots in the coming decade, and CAE is well-placed to benefit. Image source: Getty Images. Long-term drivers of earnings growth CAE styles itself a world leader in simulation and training for civil aviation, defense, and training, and as such it's seen as a play on the need to train new pilots in order to serve growth in civil aviation. It's a great market to be in. As you can see below, airline profitability has dramatically improved since the last recession -- good news for companies servicing the industry: Bar chart of commercial airline net profitability by year, from 2004 through 2019 Data source: The International Air Transport Association. Chart by author. Figures are in billions of dollars. There's also a specific need to train new pilots. For example, due to a combination of an aging pilot population and demand for new pilots in line with growth in passenger traffic, CAE estimates that the current population of 360,000 pilots (305,000 airline pilots and 55,000 business-jet pilots) will expand to 530,000 in the next decade; given attrition of 150,000 pilots, that target will require 320,000 new pilots. If you think this is a large number, then recall that a typical narrow-body aircraft requires 6 or 7 pilots per plane and a wide-body requires around 8. Moreover, 215,000 new captains will be needed in the next decade, according to CAE. Whichever way you look at it, the long-term end-market demand outlook is very positive -- and CAE's management expects the company's civil aviation segment to grow operating income in the upper 20% range in 2020. Story continues In addition, CAE has an opportunity to capitalize on its position as the leading provider of simulators by grabbing market share in services; management estimates that it only has a third of the global market for training services, so there's ample runway for growth. Near-term growth drivers It's far too early to draw any conclusions from the results of investigations into the recent high-profile Boeing (NYSE: BA) 737 MAX crashes, but the tragic events have encouraged a renewed focus on every aspect of airline safety. In a sense, it doesn't matter what the final conclusions are; as Boeing's CEO Denis Muilenburg argues, "The history of our industry shows most accidents are caused by a chain of events." Given that pilot action is one of the links in the chain, there's obviously a heightened focus on ensuring pilots are well-trained after any major tragedy occurs. The subject came up on the recent fourth-quarter earnings call; CAE's CEO Marc Parent respectfully declined to comment on the specific situation, but affirmed that "we've got capability, we've got capacity to support whatever transpires to get the airplanes back into the air, to support them, support the airline customers, OEMs [original equipment manufacturers], regulators, to ensure that training needs are met." He later confirmed that current 737 simulators could be converted into 737 MAX simulators, and said CAE "could ramp up to meet any demand, any of the work" coming in, order to handle training required to get the 737 MAX back into service. Is CAE a buy? On a speculative note, the company's position as a pure-play training company means it's a good candidate for a larger company entering the market; it's no secret that, for example, Boeing is looking for ways to expand its services offerings. However, CAE doesn't need takeover speculation to make it worth buying. Based on its valuation alone, it looks like an attractive growth stock. The company had a strong fiscal 2019, with annual revenue up 17% and adjusted earnings per share up 13%. Analysts expect CAE to grow revenue 13% in fiscal 2020, with EPS growing 21% to 1.46 Canadian dollars (around $1.09), putting it at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 23. That valuation doesn't seem too expensive for a company with such strong long-term earnings prospects. The stock deserves consideration by growth-oriented investors. More From The Motley Fool Lee Samaha 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. At many Chick-fil-A restaurants around the country, one seat was empty over the weekend. To honor soldiers who died while serving in the Armed Forces, the fast food chain set up "Missing Man Tables" at many locations for Memorial Day weekend. Missing Man Tables are memorials set up in military dining facilities to honor dead, missing or imprisoned service members and are full of symbolic items and colors. "This table is reserved to honor our missing comrades in arms," a framed statement that accompanied Chick-fil-A's tables read. According to the National League of POW/MIA Families, here's what on the items on the tables represent: The table is round: To show our everlasting concern. The cloth is white: Symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call to serve. The single red rose: Reminds us of the lives of these Americans and their loved ones and friends who keep the faith, while seeking answers. The yellow ribbon: Symbolizes our continued uncertainty, hope for their return and determination to account for them. A slice of lemon: Reminds us of their bitter fate, captured or missing in a foreign land. A pinch of salt: Symbolizes the tears of our missing and their families. The lighted candle: Reflects our hope for their return. The Bible: Represents the strength gained through faith to sustain us and those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God. The glass is inverted: To symbolize their inability to share a toast. The chairs are empty: They are missing. Here's a look at some of the Missing Man Tables from Chick-fil-A locations around the country: This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why these tables were empty at Chick-fil-As around the country this weekend King Mohammed VI who attaches great importance to the social and professional integration of former inmates launched, on Monday in Casablanca, the 2019 national Program to support micro-projects and self-employment of former detainees. On this occasion, the Sovereign handed equipment and support checks to 26 former inmates carrying income-generating projects. Six women and two former residents of child protection centers are among the beneficiaries. The funds earmarked this year for the program, initiated by the Mohammed VI Foundation for the reintegration of detainees, amount to over 13.5 million dirhams, compared to 8.1 million dirhams in 2018. Some 478 former detainees, initiators of project in sectors such as trade, industry, services, crafts, catering, agriculture or construction will benefit from the 2019 program. The former detainees elaborated, with the assistance of the reintegration services, their personal projects while in detention, where they underwent vocational training and acquired expertise. Eighteen beneficiaries of this Program have been convicted in cases of extremism and terrorism and have participated in the Reconciliation program (Moussalaha), meant to reintegrate these detainees and reconcile them with society. This action, which has a strong social impact, testifies to the particular interest that the King gives to the future of inmates and to his firm determination to see to it that they benefit, without any discrimination or exception, from an adequate socio-professional integration after their release. It also reflects the royal vision to strengthen security in society, combat crime, reduce recidivism and create income-generating activities (IGAs) to improve the future and quality of life of people who have transgressed the law. The program to support micro-projects and self-employment of former inmates is part of the Mohammed VI Foundations integrated socio-professional reintegration strategy. In 2018, it enabled 453 former inmates, including 87 women, to work in socially responsible companies. This strategy, which is being implemented in partnership with several stakeholders, aims to make of prison a second-chance school, an environment of re-education, learning and expertise acquisition. Stacey and David were shocked when Stacey gave birth to Sophia [Photo: Stacey Porter] A woman who didn't know she was pregnant got the shock of her life when she delivered her baby alone on her bathroom floor. Stacey Porter, 20, had gone to bed with a stomach ache, and it wasnt until she felt her babys head coming that she realised she was about to give birth. I was unaware it was labour until her head was coming out, Stacey from Glasgow, told Yahoo UK. I had to take a seat on the bathroom floor as my pain was that bad and after a few moans and groans her head started to come out. Despite some heartburn when she was in Thailand over the Christmas and new year period, Stacey had no symptoms of pregnancy at all and had been getting regular periods. She had even been taking birth control pills. I put [the heartburn] down to the amount of spicy food we had been consuming and the wine and different Thai beers, she explains. And when her partner, David Johnston, 26, also claimed to be experiencing heartburn, she didnt think anything of it The couple are now adjusting to life as a family of three [Photo: Stacey Porter] Little Sophia was delivered by her mum in the bathroom [Photo: Stacey Porter] READ MORE: Baby born almost entirely without skin defies odds to survive It was only after her daughter, Sophia, was born and the new mum was in hospital that the midwives explained that a correlation between women who experience heartburn during pregnancy and babies born with a full head of hair has been found. On the night she gave birth to her unexpected baby, Stacey had been picked up from work by David after complaining about feeling unwell. The couple went back to Davids family home in Grangemouth - where they were house-sitting while his parents were on holiday. Though she was suffering from a stomach ache, Stacey didn't want to go to hospital, so David decided to sleep on the couch to get some rest before work. At just after 4am the "agonising pain" in her stomach became so bad that Stacey had to sit down on the bathroom floor. Having realised what was happening Stacey tried to ring David downstairs, but his phone was just ringing. It was feeling the babys head, that alerted Stacey to the fact that she had to push. Story continues And little Sophia made her unexpected entrance into the world on Friday 10 May at 4.14 am weighing 7lb 13oz. Stacey Porter had no idea she was pregnant before giving birth to her baby in the bathroom [Photo: Supplied by Stacey Porter] Shortly afterwards David woke up and called an ambulance, taking Stacey and the newborn to Forth Valley Royal Hospital for checks. "I just stood there, staring at Stacey and Sophia. I put my head in my hands and I was just like 'Stacey, that's a baby'" he told Radio Scotland. The couple decided to name their surprise daughter Sophia Grace Johnston. As soon as I saw her I thought she would suit Sophia, Stacey tells Yahoo UK. I hadnt ever considered baby names before as a baby isnt something I had planned or would have been planning for a good few years. But we were told later told by a man they got chatting to that Sophia means Wisdom in Greek and Grace means Gods Favour. Despite Sophias unexpected arrival, the couple say they wouldnt change their unusual journey to parenthood. Shes so perfect, content and just our little miracle, Stacey says. READ MORE: Stacey Solomon praised for 'raw and real' post-birth post complete with blood stains The couple are now adjusting to becoming an overnight family of three. Its still a complete shock, she says.Sometimes we find each other walking by her just staring at her for a good five minutes. We are both still learning but its definitely not something we would change for the world, she adds. It might sound unbelievable to go a full nine months without realising that youre pregnant but cryptic pregnancies, as they are known, are actually more common than you might think. According to the BMJ, cryptic pregnancies are estimated to occur in around one in 2,500 cases, suggesting that for around 320 women this is their reality. With so many typical indicators of pregnancy, it may be difficult to understand, but according to experts it does happen. The ever-changing landscape of this data-driven world has created a niche for smart home products. Further, the emergence of virtual assistants embedded with artificial intelligence (AI) techniques has spurred demand for smart home products. Recently, Yandex YNDX unveiled Russias first smart home ecosystem powered by Alice. This smart assistant enables users to control their smart home devices from many platforms. Manufacturers like Philips, Xiaomi, Samsung and Redmond will offer Alice-enabled products namely smart bulbs, plugs and appliances. With the release of these products, Yandex will have more people to get into its ecosystem, thereby increasing Alices adoption. In addition, Yandex has launched a range of its own gadgets the Smart Bulb, Smart Plug and the Smart Remote Control. The recent move highlights that the company is increasingly focusing on the smart home space, with the goal of projecting Alice, Russian-speaking intelligent assistant, as an important part of ones life. New Smart Home Products to Aid Alices Adoption Notably, Alice was introduced as the first Russian-speaking intelligent assistant, which integrates multiple services with one centralized tool. It uses deep neural network technology and large databases to converse using natural language. The company noted that Alices responses are based on dynamic data collected from users unlike its competitors intelligent assistants, which depend more on scripted responses. Per Telegraph, Alice was also found responding positively to violence like few other intelligent assistants. Alice is already available on mobile, desktop and cars-navigation app. This apart, it combines many Yandex services such as Search, News, Weather, Music, Maps and Taxi. The service also offers more than a dozen games. Summing Up The smart home market is poised to grow at a rapid pace. Per Zion Market Research, this market is anticipated to grow to $53 billion by 2022. This has made other tech giants aggressively explore the space as well. Story continues Last year, Yandex launched Yandex. Station, which is equipped with its Russian-speaking voice assistant called Alice. The speaker has Bluetooth capabilities, powerful audio specs and HDMI port for streaming television. The expansion of its ecosystem comes at a time when Yandex is diversifying the companys core search engine business as well as artificial intelligence (AI) based products. Notably, other competitors like Alphabet GOOGL, Amazon and Apple AAPL havent yet explored the Russian market, lending Yandex a significant edge in turn. Search and Portal continues to be the bread and butter of Yandex. The segments (73% of total revenues) revenues increased 26% from the year-ago quarter to 27.12 billion roubles in the first quarter. Notably, its market share reached 57% during the quarter. For fiscal 2019, Yandex increased the guided range for revenue growth in Search and Portal from 18-20% to 19-21% in rouble terms. Yandexs latest rollout highlights the companys increased focus on the fast-growing smart home market and competitive advantage. Yandex N.V. Price and Consensus Yandex N.V. Price and Consensus Yandex N.V. price-consensus-chart | Yandex N.V. Quote Zacks Rank and Key Picks Currently, Yandex has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the broader technology sector include Facebook, Inc. FB, IAC/InterActiveCorp IAC and AXT, Inc. AXTI, each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), at present. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Long-term earnings growth for Facebook, IAC/InterActiveCorp and AXT is currently projected at 20.2%, 20.5% and 15%, respectively. 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 IAC/InterActiveCorp (IAC) : Free Stock Analysis Report Yandex N.V. (YNDX) : Free Stock Analysis Report Facebook, Inc. (FB) : Free Stock Analysis Report AXT Inc (AXTI) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research Amanda Eller speaks from her hospital bed at Maui Memorial Medical Center in Hawaii, May 25, 2019 - SARAH HAYNES - FINDAMANDA A yoga instructor who was lost for more than two weeks in the wilds of Hawaii 'ate moths' as she battled to survive. Amanda Eller, 35, spoke for the first time this weekend about her ordeal, saying she almost gave up deep in the jungle. Miss Eller spent 16 days wondering the Makawao Forest Reserve on the island of Maui after becoming lost during what was meant to be a quick three-mile hike. So quick, in fact, that she had left her mobile phone and water battle behind in her car. Speaking to the New York Times on Saturday, 24 hours after she was spotted by a search helicopter hired by her frantic parents, she said from her hospital bed: I wanted to give up. But the only option I had was life or death. I heard this voice that said, If you want to live, keep going. After several days, tracking in an area inahabited by wild boars, she fell twenty feet into a deep ravine and fractured her leg. Weak and injured, she began to crawl instead of walk. I was getting so skinny that I was really starting to doubt if I could survive. Julia Eller, her relieved mother, told local news outlets that wild berries and even a few moths were all that sustained her. She tried to catch some crawfish but was not very successful. Eller smiles surrounded by her rescuers Credit: AFP Mrs Eller added: She lost quite a bit of weight, as you can imagine, being lost for that amount of time. But she was able to survive it. She had the right skills and did the right things to buy time so that we had a chance to find her. One night, Miss Eller took shelter in a boars den. She covered herself in leaves and mud to stay warm. On the 17th day of her disappearance, she was spotted by an elated rescuer 4 miles away from the original search area. The local fire crew went in to retrieve her. She was sunburnt and malnourished. I looked up and they were right on top of me, said Miss Eller of the moment she saw the helicopter. I was like, Oh my God, and I just broke down and started bawling. WELLINGTON (Reuters) - Tens of thousands of New Zealand teachers walked off the job on Wednesday, a day before the government announced its 'wellbeing' budget, calling for higher pay and shorter hours in the country's largest ever education strike. Almost 50,000 secondary and primary school teachers joined the strike, according to their unions, closing schools around the nation. The strike came a day before Jacinda Ardern's government was set to release its first 'Wellbeing' budget, which had been touted globally as a new approach to fiscal decision-making guided by a broader range of indicators to improve New Zealanders' living standards. Unions working on behalf of teachers have been negotiating with the government for months for pay rises and measures to reduce workloads, but so far have ended in deadlock. "The offers we have received from the government have not addressed the issues our profession is facing. They will not turn around the crisis in education that is looming," said Lynda Stuart, the president of teachers' union NZEI Te Riu Roa, in a statement when the strike was announced earlier this month. Education Minister Chris Hipkins said earlier this month when the strikes were announced that the extra NZ$1.2 billion ($784.80 million) over four years in pay rises on offer was the "biggest offer teachers have had in a decade" and told Radio New Zealand on Wednesday there was no more money for teachers' pay in this year's budget. The strike spotlights the difficulties Ardern's government faces in delivering on its promise to pour money into social services and rein in economic inequality when it took office in 2017. The center-left government's traditional union support base says sluggish wage growth and soaring living costs have left workers struggling, with junior doctors, nurses and court officials taking action in the past year to demand pay hikes. The government on Tuesday was also grappling said it was "hacked" following the early release of some budget information by the opposition National Party. The Finance Minister said not all the details in the information was correct. Police were investigating and the National Party denied involvement in any illegal activity. ($1 = 1.5291 New Zealand dollars) (Reporting by Charlotte Greenfield; Editing by James Dalgleish) Mozambique has offered to export power to Zimbabwe and Zambia, which are currently facing an energy deficit. The move of the southern African nation is in exchange for further reduced generation at Lake Kariba. The offer will provide huge relief for the two countries that have already whittled electricity generation. Zimbabwe and Zambia generate power on the northern and southern banks of the Lake Kariba and share equally water from the worlds largest man-made inland lake, which is, however, receding fast following the last drought season. The Zambezi River Authority has since rationed water consumption by Zimbabwe and Zambias power utilities, ZESCO and ZESA, which will see them generating at prescribed thresholds, 358 megawatts for Zimbabwe and 392MW for Zambia. The two countries depend heavily on the Lake Kariba for power, with Zimbabwe having rated capacity of 1,050 megawatts while Zambia can churn out a maximum of 1,080 megawatts from the $5 billion giant water reservoir. According to officials, with the new deal, Zimbabwe and Zambia may get as much as 500 MW from Mozambique, without the parties involved having to exchange any or significant amounts of money for the deal. Zimbabwe has over the last four years needed an average of $40 million to import power to avert rolling power cuts that rocked the country since 2007 and in the end accumulating debts of $80 million. Egyptian President Fattah al-Sisi has asked the Sudanese Transitional Military Council (TMC) to distance itself from Islamists who formed the bacon of support for former ruler Omar al Bachir. This came during the meeting TMC leader Abdelfattah Burhan held in Cairo Sunday with President al-Sisi as talks for the formation of a Sudanese transition council to include the civilians reached a deadlock. During the talks, the Egyptian President called on Burhan to cut links with Islamists who have been a major bloc of power in Sudan. Al Sisi since ascending to power in 2013, has waged a bloody crackdown on Islamists in Egypt and has endorsed Libyan rebel military commander Khalifa Haftar in his alleged war against Islamist groups in capital Tripoli. The Islamists in Sudan supported Bachirs 30-year old regime and have stood behind the army during talks with civilians. Last Friday, the Islamists held a big rally to denounce leaders of the revolution whom they accuse of being opposed to Islam and the Sharia law. Saudi Arabia and the UAE, two key Egypts allies have also brought their support to TMC and voiced concerns over the Islamists influence. The three countries voiced willingness to shore up Burhan and the military in view of sabotaging the revolution which could ignite upheavals in KSA and Egypt. Security authorities in France have arrested four people including a young Algerian man deemed the main suspect in the letter-bomb attack last week in Lyon, south-eastern France, which wounded 13 people. A 24-year old computer science student from Algeria has been identified as the main suspect for the blast on Friday afternoon, in front a bakery. Authorities did not reveal his name. CCTV footage released last week led to the suspect believed to be the bomber in Lyons historic city center. The footage showed a man partly masked leaving the scene on bicycle. The man is not known to police and no one has claimed responsibility for the attack. Police arrested another man and two other people believed to be the suspects mother and young brother who is a high school student. The parcel contained triacetone triperoxide (TATP) mixed with screws and ball bearings. The home- improvised device wounded 13 people, 11 of whom are still in hospital, reports say. fucking disgusting, i hope they blast whoever did it in the media for weeks and exile them from the industry Edited at 2019-05-28 12:41 am (UTC) Reply Thread Link Some old topless photo shoot pics of Anne Hathaway leaked too (shes covering her nipples with her arms) Hope its not the start to another huge leak Reply Thread Link Oh wow. When I first saw these I thought they were pics shed put out. Thats absolutely disgusting someone at the magazine leaked them. I hope she sues them for so much she ends up owning the damn company. Reply Thread Link The full story makes so much more sense because when I saw it I was thinking it looked like a photo shoot Reply Parent Thread Link Oh no that is so horrible! I feel so bad for her. I hope they find out who did it. Reply Thread Link That sucks. Shes not wrong here. GQ stays fucking up. Surprised most of these magazines even survived after the explosion of social media. Reply Thread Link someone at GQ is getting fired Reply Thread Link wouldn't that be nice Reply Parent Thread Link throw the whole publication away i'd say Reply Parent Thread Link holy fuck I thought it was just a shelved photo shoot. Had no idea she didn't know about the fully nude ones. Take them to the cleaners. Reply Thread Link I think she is saying that she was aware there were full nudes but because they would never have been considered for print and that she never authorized them for print, they would have been destroyed. Reply Parent Thread Link This is so fucked up and honestly these pics should have been deleted by GQ. Reply Thread Link Watch this be another Jussie Smollett and she did it for attention.... OT: I hope they catch whoever did leak them Reply Thread Link is that first part even needed Reply Parent Thread Link Seriously, what was even the point of that comment??? Reply Parent Thread Link gross Reply Parent Thread Link wtffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffff ffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffff ffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffff ffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffff ffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffff ffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffff ffffffffffffffffffffffff Reply Parent Thread Link rme Reply Parent Thread Link Lol you typically say the weirdest, unnecessary comments on here and then act like everyone on this sites the problem. Reply Parent Thread Link Why wouldn't GQ have destroyed those pictures!? that's horrible Reply Thread Link This is seriously gross. Reply Thread Link That's so vile. Reply Thread Link smh. i hope whoever's responsible gets put on blast and faces legit consequences. Reply Thread Link hope she's the new owner of gq in a couple of months Reply Thread Link The string of new oil discoveries off the coast of Guyana has lifted spirits recently, creating the impression that the energy industry is back on its feet and making more and more discoveries. However, this may not be the case. According to a report from Westwood Global Energy Group released earlier this month, for example, the success rate of exploration activity has fallen in the past five years, and it has fallen by a lot. In the downturn success rates had increased as companies high graded their portfolios to ensure that only the best prospects were drilled. Unfortunately, this didnt last, and 2018 saw discovered volumes, average discovery size and success rates all decline. This development was most pronounced in the high-impact drilling segment, the company said. New oil and gas discovered through high-impact drilling fell by as much as 50 percent between 2014 and 2018. The slump was the result of a combination of factors, Westwood Global Energy Group said, including a 28-percent decline in the number of new wells drilled, lower success rates and lower reservoir volumes. This may sound shocking given the abundance of new discovery announcements from different parts of the worldnot to mention the invariably bullish forecasts about U.S. shale oil production in the medium termbut these are not the only discovery news stories out there. Recently, for example, the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate warned crude oil production in the country could drop to a 30-year low precisely because of the lack of new discoveries despite a lot of exploration efforts. Pakistan also recently announced the end of exploratory drilling in the Arabian Sea after the companies leading the projectExxon and Enifailed to find any commercial amounts of hydrocarbons. Related: Have Gasoline Prices Peaked For 2019? Yet not everyone is pessimistic. Rystad Energy has calculated that new oil and gas discoveries in the first quarter of the year hit 3.2 billion barrels of oil equivalent. They also said that many more new wells are scheduled for drilling through the end of the year. However, more than a third of the first-quarter discoveries38 percent to be precisewere made by Exxon and Hess in the Stabroek block off the Guyana coast. For new well drilling, Westwood Global Energy Group cautions that these have often yielded lower volumes of oil and gas than preliminary estimates suggested, and this may well continue to be the case. With oil companies planning to increase exploration drilling in 2019, the question is whether the global drilling portfolio for both near-field and high impact prospects is strong enough to sustain an increase in activity without sacrificing exploration performance, the company said in its report. On the other hand, "Majors are leading the charge in exploration, reporting more than 2.4 billion boe of discovered resources. The six largest discoveries by the majors each exceed 150 million boe, and the top three could even hold more than 300 million boe apiece," according to Rystad upstream analyst Taiyab Zain Shariff, As quoted by Forbes Gaurav Sharma. If this rate of new discoveries continues, Shariff added, the total will be 30 percent higher than discoveries made in 2018. Related: Renewables Investment To Overtake Oil & Gas In Asia This dual information published by these research companies paint a mixed picture in new exploration. While there are still large discoveries being made, due to the very nature of hydrocarbon resourcesthat is, the fact they are finitethere are increasingly fewer untapped reservoirs left in the world. Many of these are in remote areas where exploration is hampered by harsh weather or a difficult rock structure: the Arctic and Chinas shale formations are examples of these two, respectively. Whats more, it seems increasingly clear that even the latest in exploration technology cannot guarantee a discovery even if it makes discoveries more likely. As per Westwood Global Energy Groups data, exploration success rates last year were down to 33 percent from 48 percent in 2017. Interestingly, this was despite the factor probably becauseenergy companies became bolder with investments. During the downturn, every E&P picked their new exploration projects carefully to make sure the returns would be as high as possible with the costs and risks as low as possible. This boosted the success rate of new discoveries considerably. Now that prices have stabilized and there is more money to spend on drilling, companies are taking greater risks with exploration and it is showing in the success rate. What we are seeing is yet another cycle in the oil and gas industry with the only difference that there are less resources left to discover. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Oil markets have found themselves torn once again between supply fears and an economic slowdown, with oil prices now having stabilized at a lower level. Investor Alert: A new breakthrough known by only a handful of scientists, researchers and insiders is about to turn the energy world upside down. And one small company is at the center of it all. Get the full report here. (Click to enlarge) Chart of the Week U.S. motorists saw average regular gasoline prices at $2.85 per gallon over the Memorial Day weekend, slightly lower than last years $2.92/gallon. EIA expects U.S. regular retail gasoline prices will increase in the coming months and average $2.92/gal during the 2019 summer season, the agency said, which would be 7 cents higher than last summer. Lower inventories and an uptick in consumption should keep prices elevated. Although, as always, the price of gasoline is at the mercy of global crude oil prices. Market Movers S&P downgraded Schlumberger (NYSE: SLB) by one notch to A+. It also gave Halliburton (NYSE: HAL) a Negative outlook, down from Stable. Both oilfield service companies are being negatively impacted by the slowdown in drilling activity in North America. by one notch to A+. It also gave a Negative outlook, down from Stable. Both oilfield service companies are being negatively impacted by the slowdown in drilling activity in North America. Algeria will block Total SA (NYSE: TOT) from buying Anadarko Petroleums (NYSE: APC) assets in the country until its concerns are answered. Total has agreed to acquire Anadarkos assets in Algeria, Ghana, Mozambique and South Africa for $8.8 billion. from buying assets in the country until its concerns are answered. Total has agreed to acquire Anadarkos assets in Algeria, Ghana, Mozambique and South Africa for $8.8 billion. Seadrill (NYSE: SDRL) plunged by nearly 15 percent in pre-market after Carnegie Investment Bank recommended selling shares. The offshore rig market recovery is not happening fast enough for Seadrill, Carnegie said. Tuesday May 28, 2019 Oil started the day mixed, with WTI up but Brent flat. The market seems to be once again stuck between supply outages on the one hand, and fears of a softening economy on the other. That was the same dynamic for much of May, although prices have now stabilized at a lower level, with WTI right around $60 and Brent under $70. Oil prices lack direction because the oil market currently finds itself caught between supply risks and concerns about demand, Commerzbank said. Fragmented European elections; Greens surprise. Record turnout for European Parliamentary elections produced mixed results, but also lots of drama. The far-right parties in Italy and France did well, but the Greens also did well in a number of countries. The traditional parties closer to the center were hit hard in some places. Eurosceptic parties increased their total, but there was no continent-wide sweep. The addition of Greens and Liberals could move up climate change as a major issue at the European level. North Dakota flaring continues. The shale boom in North Dakota has led to a spike in flaring, despite the state setting out flaring rules intended to cut down on the practice. In 2014, the state adopted targets, aiming for no more than 15 percent of production flared by 2016, a level that would lower to 10 percent by 2020. In March of this year, the industry flared 20 percent. We need to find an excess flared gas solution immediately, said Republican Rep. Vicky Steiner. It's a shame. I'd like to see us find a use for this. Related: Norwegian Oil Patch Ramps Up Spending To Counter Decline Trump signals softer line on Iran. President Trump said that he is not seeking regime change in Iran, and only wants to contain their nuclear weapons, a comment that seems to contradict the rising drumbeat for war. We are not looking for regime change. I just want to make that clear, Trump said during a visit to Japan. Im not looking to hurt Iran at all. Im looking to have Iran say no nuclear weapons, Trump said. No nuclear weapons for Iran and I think we will make a deal. Morgan Stanley: Shale is deflationary force. The increasingly important role of U.S. shale in the global energy mix is a deflationary force in the medium-term, Morgan Stanley argues. Unlike conventional production, shale resources are abundant and the real cost determinant is the industrial process following extraction, which means that costs can be driven down over time. Iran oil exports drying up. Traders say that buyers of Iranian oil have disappeared following U.S. sanctions. In March, the countries that had exemptions on U.S. sanctions purchased 1.6 million barrels per day from Iran, and evidence suggests that they are all mostly abiding by U.S. demands to cease purchasing. China has enough problems with the U.S. They dont want to give them a pretext, an Iranian oil executive told the WSJ. Kuwait: Oil balance later this year. Kuwaits oil minister argued that the oil market will reach balance later this year with steady demand and declining inventories. But uncertainties, including the trade war, mean that OPEC+ has more work to do. Refiners face shifting markets. A shortage of heavy oil due to the outages in Venezuela and Iran are cutting into the profits of refiners who rely on such oils. Gulf Coast fuel oil, a byproduct of heavy crude, saw prices surge to a six-month high. As refiners ramp up production of gasoline, their margins are narrowing. Meanwhile, for refiners who have made expensive upgrades to produce cleaner fuels, the forthcoming IMO rules on sulfur concentration could provide a windfall, the Wall Street Journal reports. Renewables spending surpasses oil and gas in Asia. As soon as 2020, total investment in renewable energy in Asia and the Pacific (excluding China) will overtake spending in oil and gas, according to Rystad Energy. These countries each have strong pipelines for renewable energy developments of all types, including offshore wind, says Gero Farruggio, Head of Renewables at Rystad Energy. And, importantly, most have large targets outlining the inclusion of renewable power sources within their respective energy mixes, with corresponding support policies. IEA: World hits another grim milestone. The IEA said that energy consumption in 2018 grew at its fastest pace in a decade. And 70 percent of the additional supply came from fossil fuels. Many of the technologies needed to slash carbon emissions are not on track, the IEA said. CO2 concentration in the global atmosphere continues to rise, and recently hit 415 parts per million. Hedge funds sell more oil. Hedge funds and other money managers continue to liquidate their net-long positions on crude futures. However, in the most recent week, the selloff was a bit lighter, which suggests the correction may have gone far enough. Related: The Single Biggest Challenge For The Oil & Gas Industry Fiat-Renault merger. Fiat Chrysler has proposed a merger with Renault, and the tie-up could accelerate both companies shift towards electric vehicles. The combination could save $5.6 billion annually, Fiat says. The merger would create the worlds third largest automaker, but because Renault is already tied to Nissan and Mitsubishi, the deal is complex and complicated. Bank of Canada: Climate change a financial risk. The Bank of Canada listed climate change as one of six major risks to financial stability. Climate change carries physical risks extreme weather but also disruption during transition, including sudden policy moves. At the same time, the lack of transparency around carbon exposure at the company level could lead to mispricing of assets. Fed: Small shale companies face pressure. The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas said that smaller U.S. shale companies are under pressure to either expand or be acquired. Smaller drillers are losing access to capital and are under scrutiny from shareholders, the head of the Dallas Fed told the FT. People have said to me in this industry, youre either a buyer or a seller today, Robert Kaplan said. But if you stand pat, where you are, youre going to be in a dangerous placeEven shale is not immune from disruption and capital discipline, and theyre feeling it right now. And this is why youre seeing more merger activity. Harvard economist: China slowdown is nightmare scenario. The largest threat to the global economy is that Chinas economy slows down at a much faster rate than expected, Harvard economist Carmen Reinhart told Bloomberg. From The Editor's Desk: An urgent piece of research has just come across our desk highlighting what might just be the most significant development in the energy industry since fracking. A group of scientists has discovered a super-crystal that is poised to completely transform everything we know about electricity. Its up to 273% more efficient than silicon solar cells, and it cant be painting onto almost any surface. Im sure you can imagine the implications of such a breakthrough! Learn more about the super-crystal and the small-cap stock that has surrounded it in patents here. By Tom Kool of Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Oil prices may have had an impressive rally this year until last week but the longer-term trend looks downbeat. Deflationary forces are gathering momentum, Morgan Stanley analysts wrote in a new report. The most recent jump in prices through mid-May came largely as a result of geopolitical risk and supply outages. Rising tensions in the Middle East and disruptions in places like Venezuela and Iran are showing no signs of going away anytime soon. These geopolitical factors will keep some upward pressure on oil prices for the next few quarters. However, in the background, there are several variables that could exert deflationary pressure on the oil market. Morgan Stanley has noted that U.S. shale is slowing, but with 200 [billion] barrels of resource with breakevens in the $40-45/bbl range, there is an increasingly credible scenario that shale could grow >1 mb/d per year out to 2025. Moreover, oil producers are turning to a variety of digital technologies, robotics and automation that could keep costs in check. Thats good for individual oil companies, the investment bank argues, but in the aggregate, it puts a lid on crude prices. Morgan Stanley drew parallels to copper and aluminum markets. In the past, oil was like copper in that producing the next project became more and more expensive. Scarcity meant higher prices and the tendency for companies to venture into ever riskier frontiers. On the other hand, shale is more like aluminum, the bank says the resource itself is abundant, so costs are more determined by the industrial process that comes after extraction. As a result, as technology improves, costs fall. Aluminum prices have steadily declined over the last century while copper has been more volatile and cyclical. Related: Have Gasoline Prices Peaked For 2019? Because of shales increasingly important role in the global market for crude oil, the entire oil market may begin to resemble what has occurred with aluminum. In other words, there is a cap on oil prices in the medium-term, Morgan Stanley argues. That leaves little room for OPEC+ to add production; the group may have to maintain its output curtailments for years to come. Depressed prices mean that investment outside of North America could dwindle. Thats bad news for companies working outside of the U.S. and Canada and also negative for oilfield service companies. For the majors and the E&Ps, their place on the cost curves would be more critical than ever, Morgan Stanley warned. Ongoing focus on cost and capital efficiency would remain a key priority. On top of this, as other governments try to compete for capital with North America, tax rates on the energy industry could fall, Morgan Stanley said. That also could act as yet another deflationary force. This narrative is a rather optimistic take on U.S. shale, and not one that everyone agrees with. For instance, its not clear that breakeven prices have really fallen all that much. There is evidence that the breakeven in the Permian has been right at about $50 per barrel for several years, barely budging despite a lot of hype about cost-savings. Meanwhile, a recent report from the Post Carbon Institute argues that the intensification of drilling, and the fast ramp up in production, merely front-loads production and does very little to increase the ultimate amount of oil recovered. The faster the industry drills out the best acreage, the faster the resource becomes picked over. Drillers will be forced into non-core areas, where costs are higher and recover rates are less attractive. Morgan Stanley acknowledges risks to its forecast. For instance, geopolitics cannot simply be discounted as a phenomenon that will go away. Indeed, politics and upheaval have characterized the oil industry since its inception. Related: Tainted Russian Oil Crisis May Drag On For Months In addition, the bank is assuming that the US E&P industry will continue to overcome key operational bottlenecks relatively quickly and without major impact on break-evens, the bank said. Perhaps sweet spot exhaustion, parent/child interference, rising gas or water cuts, crude quality issues, the capacity of the refining system to absorb large quantities of light crude, etc., will eventually slow production growth from the potential that we currently estimate, the bank conceded in a rather long list of caveats. On the demand side, there are also deflationary forces taking hold. Weaker demand could cap oil prices as well. Morgan Stanley points out that demand has grown at a roughly 1.3-mb/d rate for the last few years, but that rate of consumption could fall to 0.8 mb/d by the mid-2020s. This too is the subject of a great deal of debate some see demand slowing even faster, while a large number of other analysts see demand remaining rather strong through the decade and into the 2030s. If demand does not slow, the oil market will need much more supply, and the deflationary thesis could be undercut somewhat. Regardless of whether one agrees with Morgan Stanleys deflationary thesis, one argument does ring true: Whatever happens in the U.S. shale industry and more specifically, how the Permian boom unfolds in the next few years will go a long way in determining the trajectory for the rest of the global oil market. By Nick Cunningham of Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Algeria has made a critical discovery of gas, its energy minister said on Monday, in a find that could provide for the African nations increasing gas consumption at homeif it can get it out of the ground. The OPEC member has made few finds in recent years, and its increasing demand for the fossil fuel at home may leave little available for export. This is critical for Algeria, whos oil and gas exports account for about 85 percent of its total exports, according to OPEC. The news of Algerias newest gas find comes amid scrutiny of its unfavorable legislation of its oil and gas sector. GlobalData, a data and analytics company, has determined that Algerias hydrocarbon sectors current fiscal terms are relatively unattractive to foreign investments. For this reason, Algeria is looking to revamp its legislation surrounding its hydrocarbon sector, but it is unclear whether this will be enough to attract further investments, with its political situation also adding a layer of uncertainty into the mix. On top of that, Total, Eni, and Repsol have all had contract disputes in Algeria, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by their peers. Algerias newest find could produce 275 cubic meters of gas and 300 liters of condensate per hour, Algerias Energy Minister Mohamed Arkab told state news agency APS. Algerias state-run energy company Sonatrach already has shale gas deals with BP and Equinor, and a potential deal with Exxon has been delayed due to protests. Algeria is home to one of the worlds largest shale gas reserves, estimated at 2,000 trillion cubic feet, according to the Algerian government, and it remains a major gas supplier to Europe. Algeria has been rocked in recent months by mass protests when President Abdelaziz Bouteflika announced that he planned to run for another term. While he eventually stepped down under pressure, the environment remains unstable, creating a risky environment for foreign energy companies who would otherwise love to get their hands on Algerias sizable reserves. By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Tunisian Tourism Minister Monday laid into enemies of Prime Minister Youssef Chahed and his cabinet for hiring an Israeli firm to run a smear campaign to stain the image of the head of Government and sabotage little successes attained despite various economic and security challenges. Rene Trabelsi, a Jewish by faith, made the comments while speaking to a local radio on Monday. He did not name the people nor the company but said the government is aware of them. Tunisian parties have hired this company to launch a smear campaign against the government and its president, he said. Unfortunately, they are not happy to see the progress made by the government. Trabelsi also stressed that the alleged smear campaign was also reported in several media including French Le Monde. The minister lamented that it was people and parties in Tunisia who paid this company to create hundreds of pages and false profiles in order to denigrate the head of the executive. He added that the government knows quite accurately the Tunisians who sponsored and paid this slander campaign against Youssef Chahed. The accusations come after Facebook early this month banned the Israel-based Archimedes Group for running influence campaigns aimed at disrupting elections in various countries, The New Arab reports. Archimedes has been accused of trying to influence elections in Tunisia and several other Francophone African countries. After the surprising conservative win in Australias recent general election, the new Energy Minister, Angus Taylor, has claimed the majority government formed with the Liberals had a mandate to implement climate policies. Were firmly committed to the policies we took to the election. We now have a clear mandate to implement those policies and well be doing so, Taylor told the Sydney Morning Herald today, adding There's now an opportunity for a bipartisan approach to energy and emissions. Labor should adopt our plan, which was supported by the Australian people, and I know industry wants to see bipartisanship. Now's the opportunity." While Taylor said his ministry will strive to deliver both cheaper energy to Australian households and climate change targets, he also said the government will not renew the National Energy Guarantee initiative proposed by the previous government and later dropped amid the government crisis. The National Energy Guarantee aimed to combine lower emissions with lower prices and with supply security by obliging energy companies to first make sure they have a constant minimum supply of electricity regardless of what they use to generate itincluding solar and wind and second, to guarantee that the emissions resulting from the production of this electricity are in line with the countrys Paris Agreement commitment. Not everyone is a fan of this approach, including provincial governments as well as industry groups, although some industry groups were vocally in favor of the plan last year. In any case, it seems it wont be returned to the table under this government. Electricity supply has become a serious problem in Australia in recent years. The previous government blamed it on the fast adoption of solar and wind capacity without any backup or storage to prevent blackouts. Another serious problem is a looming LNG shortage due to excessive exports, which is also contributing to higher electricity prices and lower security of supply. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Iraqs Basra Provincial Council is calling on the Iraqi government to take Exxon to task over its decision to evacuate its engineers from its West Qurna oilfield in the Basra province. Although the council said that Exxons evacuation did not disrupt overall production in Basra, Anwar Mudalal, a member of the Council, said that the Minister of Oil, however, should take legal procedures against the company because it has violated its contract with Iraq, according to basnews. Mudalal added that most of the oilfields in Basra are managed by Iraqi officers, and not foreign personnel, thus its resilience to the shocks of a major player such as Exxon pulling its engineering staff out of countryan action that Iraqs Oil Minister Thamer Ghadhban claimed was unacceptable and unjustified. ExxonMobil began to evacuate its engineers working on Iraqs West Qurna 1 field a couple weeks ago after the United States ordered the evacuation of all non-essential government employees from Iraq citing security concerns, warning that the US embassy in Iraq would suspend visa services and would have a limited ability to provide emergency services to US citizens in Iraq. Despite Exxons untimely departure, Iraq promised just days later that it would raise the oil production from its giant West Qurna 1 field by as much as 50,000 barrels per day. Currently, the West Qurna 1 oil field pumps around 440,000 bpd. Iraqs plan is to increase that production to 490,000 bpd. The news that Exxon was beginning to remove some engineering personnel from the country came at a rather delicate time as Iraq, PetroChina, and Exxon were rumored to be close to signing a $53-billion oil deal that would create a $400 billion windfall for Iraq over the 30-year period of the deal. By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Nigerias government has authorized a local oil company to operate a new floating crude oil export terminal off the coast of the Rivers state in the oil-rich but still troubled Niger Delta. Belemaoil Producing Ltd has been allowed to moor a floating storage and offloading (FSO) unit and use it as a crude oil export terminal, according to a letter signed by the Director of Nigerias Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Mordecai Ladan, Nigerian media report. The new terminal, which will be known as Belemaoil Terminal Kula, is expected to create more than 10,000 jobs and other opportunities for the unemployed youths in the area, according to Samuel Abel-Jumbo, External Relations Manager at Belemaoil. Not all local communities in the Niger Delta have been happy with the major international oil companies operating in their region, and Nigerias oil industry has frequently suffered sabotages, oil theft, vandalism, and militant attacks on infrastructure. Nigeria, Africas largest oil producer and an OPEC member, is dusting off an ambitious plan to double its oil production by 2025, aiming to pump as much as 4 million bpd in six years timea goal that analysts think may be too ambitious for the country to achieve. Nigeria currently pumps around 2.2 million bpd in crude oil and condensate. In April, Nigerias crude oil production alone stood at 1.819 million bpd, up by 92,000 bpd from March, according to OPECs secondary sources. Nigeria may have a hard time achieving its ambitious oil production goal because of security concerns and the continuous oil theft and resulting oil spills in the Niger Delta that have been affecting the operations of supermajors like Shell and Exxon. At the end of last month, sabotages and oil leaks led to several operators declaring force majeure on key oil export grades, including Shell declaring force majeure on Bonny Light exports, which was lifted more than two weeks later. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Occidental Petroleum hasnt closed the acquisition of Anadarko yet, but analysts are already speculating about which Anadarko assets Occidental could divest to cut part of the debt it has taken on from the transaction and to focus on the core assets after the dealAnadarkos prime U.S. shale acreage. The sooner Occidental delivers on its non-core asset sales, the sooner it can start consolidating complementary assets with Anadarko to achieve synergies and regain some favor with investors, shareholders, and the market, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) analysts and bankers tell Reuters. When Oxy announced earlier this month that it had entered into a deal to buy Anadarkooutbidding ChevronOccidental said it expects to reduce debt over the next 24 months through free cash flow growth, realizing identified synergies and executing a planned portfolio optimization strategy with $10-15 billion of divestitures over the next 12-24 months; $8.8 billion of which has already been agreed through the transaction with Total. The deal with Total, however, may not go as smoothly as initially expected, after Algerias Energy Minister Mohamed Arkab said over the weekend that the North African country would not allow Total to acquire Anadarkos assets, because Algerias government had not been consulted on the matter and is now ready to exercise its pre-emption right. Algeria quickly came down off that stance, with its energy minister acquiescing enough to say it was open to a good compromise for a Total/Anadarko deal, according to S&P Global Platts. Related: Have Gasoline Prices Peaked For 2019? According to analysts who spoke to Reuters, Occidentals most likely asset sales could be Anadarkos pipeline business and the assets in the Gulf of Mexico. Anadarkos GoM position may be worth at least US$6 billion, and potential buyers could be some of the biggest players with experience in the Gulf of Mexico such as Exxon, Shell, Chevron, and Total, analysts tell Reuters. If the deal with Total for Anadarkos African assets goes through and Oxy sells the offshore assets, it would likely reach its US$10-15 billion asset sale target, Matt Sallee, portfolio manager at Tortoise Capital Advisors, told Reuters. When Occidental approached Anadarko in late April with a bid countering Chevrons, rating agency Moodys said that the proposed deal would add almost US$40 billion of debt to OXY's capital structure. Moodys placed OXY under review for downgrade, noting that if the acquisition closes and crude oil prices remain supportive, OXY would likely emerge from the review with a weakly positioned investment grade rating. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: After Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi won the countrys elections, the government will immediately begin negotiations with Iran to pay in rupees for Iranian oil to bypass U.S. sanctions, Indian news outlet ThePrint reported on Tuesday, citing two government sources. India, Irans second largest oil customer after China, was one of the eight countries that were granted six-month waivers to continue buying oil from Iran after the U.S. re-imposed sanctions on the Iranian oil industry in November. The United States, however, pursued a maximum pressure campaign against Iran last month and put an end to all sanction waivers for all Iranian oil buyers. This put Indian refiners in a position to source the market for alternatives, and many of them, especially private companies, did, because they are wary of possible secondary U.S. sanctions if they continue to buy oil from Iran. Indias Ambassador to the United States, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, said last week that India had officially ended all oil imports from Iran, but India has said that it would review its decision to stop buying Iranian oil once the elections are over. After Modi won the elections, the government is now keen to discuss non-dollar payments and steps that would allow it to resume purchasing oil from Iran, according to ThePrints sources. India is keen to resume imports from Iran, although the quantity may be limited, a senior government official told ThePrint, adding that Irans Pasargad Bank, which has been authorized to open a branch in India, could be used for the payments. Payments can be deposited in the Iranian bank and then Iranian authorities can decide how to utilise the money, the official told ThePrint. Talks with Iran were held before the elections, but were stalled until the elections end and results come in. Discussions will resume and this will be one of the top priorities of the Indian government, according to the official. India and Iran, however, must also find a way to cover insurance for the oil tankers because many international shipping companies steer clear of any involvement with Iranian tanker insurance due to the U.S. sanctions on Iran, one official said. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) made a positive assessment of the results of its seven-year long partnership with the Moroccan parliament lauding in particular the progress achieved in strengthening democratic governance. PACE also stresses in a resolution on Morocco the need for authorities to pursue and take ownership of the reforms so as to implement fully the ambitions of the 2011 Constitution. On 21 June 2011, the Parliament of Morocco became the first partner for democracy with the Parliamentary Assembly. PACE also welcomed the professionalism with which the Moroccan authorities organized past parliamentary elections, and the prior reform of the electoral legislation, noting the improved representation of women in the political sphere. The Assembly also welcomes the decision to open up the profession of adoul to women and invites the Moroccan authorities to step up the protection of women against all the forms of violence and discrimination from which they suffer, including in inheritance and marriage matters, said the Resolution. The Assembly reaffirms its strong support to the ongoing efforts by the United Nations Secretary-General to find a political solution in the Western Sahara, it added. On human rights, the Assembly commended the role played by the National Council on Human Rights commissions operating in Dakhla and Laayoune, and Moroccos interaction with Special Procedures of the United Nations Human Rights Council. The suspect, Malam Murtala Mode. In the background are students in his school. The police in Sokoto State have arrested one Malam Murtala Mode, a teacher of an Almajiri school in Arkillan Magaji area of the state for allegedly having unlawful and forceful sexual intercourse with six of his pupils. The suspect in his confessional statement reportedly said it was destiny, adding that he did it for money. Addressing a press conference, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Ibrahim Kaoje said one Barrister Hamza Liman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) reported the suspect at Arkilla Police Divisional Headquarter on May 22. He said the suspect admitted committing the offence. The CP said the pupils, who were mostly from the neigbouring Zamfara State, said the suspect had turned them into sex machines before the human rights intervention. He said the pupils would be reunited with their parents after the police completed investigation into the matter. ALSO READ:Police arrest suspected illegal arms dealer in Ibadan He urged parents to desist from taking their wards to Almajiri schools outside their areas. Similarly, the CP said the command has arrested six members of a vigilante group over conspiracy and robbery. The vigilante, otherwise known as Yan Sakai, were said to have come from Katsina and Zamfara states. They allegedly conspired among themselves, invaded a village called Jegawa village in Kebbe local government area of Sokoto state, killed two men and went away with their properties. Kaoje said during investigation one Bajaj Boxer motorcycle was recovered. He said the command also arrested one teenager, Zakariyya Sani of Mabera Jariri area over alleged multiple shops breaking and theft and recovered 20 jerrycans of vegetable oil, one Honda Civic, one tricycle machine, wrappers and N860,500 cash from him. He said all the suspects would be arraigned before the court of law after investigation. Post Views: 34 Chairman of the Bayelsa State Oil and Environmental Commission (BSOEC) and Archbishop of York, Dr. John Sentamu, has decried lack of political will by the Nigerian government to address environmental devastation in the Niger Delta region. Senatamu, who spoke in Yenagoa on Tuesday when 60 communities approached his commission to present oral and documentary evidence of environmental pollution caused by oil companies operating in their areas, said it was time for total cleaning and remediation of the affected communities. The 10-man commission inaugurated by Governor Seriake Dickson in March held a roundtable with non-governmental organisations, environmental and health experts. The panel comprising international environmental and legal experts visited six ravaged communities in Southern Ijaw, Brass and Yenagoa local government areas of the state. The commission held public evidence session and gave impacted communities an opportunity to give oral evidence of devastation and neglect by oil companies operating in their areas. The Traditional Ruler of Agudama community, MC Kipasa, told the commission that they recorded many oil spill incidences from the operations of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and the Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC). He said: We dont have fish in our river anymore. Even our land for farming is gone. Nothing is left for us due to these oil spills. He, however, thanked Dickson for giving them hope by setting up the commission. An Agbura community leader, Chief Igwe Napoleon, while giving evidence said the farmland and river in his community had been polluted because of oil exploration and accused Shell of reneging on terms of agreement signed with communities in the area. Stephen Moses from Egbema-Angalabiri also spoke on the devastating effects of environmental pollution on his community, lamenting that oil production had become a curse to his community instead of a blessing. The Representative of communities where the Obama oil field with about 12 wells are located, L. A. Eminah also complained about the effects of gas flaring in the area, saying the heat from the flares had resulted in blurred vision among the locals. Other speakers were Donatus Gbame from Bakiri community in Ekeremor Local Government Area; Hitler Joseph from Okoroba community; Ken Again who represented the Amananaowei of Peretorugbene Federated Communities among others. But Sentamu said: Change must happen even though the laws have not been effective and the issue of compensation have not been addressed. In some communities we visited, it looked like a bomb had been dropped but it was oil spillage. The rest of the international community cannot just turn a blind eye. The pollution that has gone on in this particular state has affected the global village, he said. He however urged the community leaders to be resilient in the midst of their challenges, adding that the commission under his leadership would make the right recommendations to the Bayelsa State government. Teen Nollywood actor Regina Daniels has been trending online since news of her marriage to 59 year old billionaire politician Ned Nwoko broke online. A man who claims to be her father says her mother is giving her out in marriage without his knowledge and consent. The man identified as Jude Ojeogwu shared a picture he snapped with Regina and wrote on his Facebook page; Regina daniel Ojeogwu is my biological daughter.What ever is ongoing is not to my knowledge and without my consent.The fact speaks for itself looking at the picture. Her mother Rita daniel is threading on a dangerous path and I hope she will retrace her steps. Even the initiation ceremony into otu odu appears completely strange to Regina daniel Ojeogwu. Regina is from ogwashi uku and not from olor as being rumored. All the opportunities for Mr Ned nwoko to discuss with me proved abortive not realising that we once lived in the same house in awoyokun street, onikpan, Lagos. The implication of all this is that she inpregnated herself. The name Regina was my late mothers name. I have tried to exercise restraint but Regina mother kept pushing me to wall. Am alive and not dead. If in doubt of this post call Barrister Jude Ojeogwu on 08033039058. More updates as details unfold. Court Orders Arrest of Sanusis Chief of Staff, other Palace Aides The plots against His Highness, Muhammad Sanusi II, Emir of Kano, have been intensified by the Kano State Governor, Abdulahi Umar Ganduje. The Emir has been placed under investigation since the royal throne was converted to partisan politicking and patronage arena by the Kano governor. National Daily gathered that a Magistrate Court in Kano State on Tuesday ordered the arrest of Munir Bayero, Chief of Staff to Muhammadu Sanusi, Emir of Kano. The court also gave an order for the arrest of Mujitaba Abba and Sani Kwaru who are also aides of the royal father. It was explained that Magistrate Muhammad Idris issued the order in endorsing a request by the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti- Corruption Commission which was said to be probing alleged misappropriation of funds belonging to the Kano Emirate Council. ALSO READ:Emir Sanusi fires back at Ganduje National Daily also gathered that Muhuyi Gado, Chairman of the anti-graft agency, wrote a letter on Tuesday, to Ahmed Iliyasu, Commissioner of Police in Kano, requesting the reinforcement of security personnel ahead of the arrest of the Palace Aides in complaint with the court order. The commission was said to have acknowledged in the letter that with the powers vested on it under the provision of section 38 of its establishment act, it is empowered to investigate the misappropriation at the Palace. The investigation was a followup tyo the controversial creation of new emirates in Kano and appointment of new Emirs by Governor Ganduje. However, the court nullified the new emirates. There are fears that the chances that Emir Sanusi will get justice in the investigation is very remote. Governor Ganduje may be on his way to dethrone the Kano Emir. The number of attacks on schools in Afghanistan nearly tripled last year, UNICEF said Tuesday, cutting children's access to education amid worsening security in the war-torn nation. Attacks on Afghan schools increased from 68 in 2017 to 192 in 2018, the first increase in such incidents since 2015. Afghanistan's ongoing war, now in its 18th year, resulted in more than 1,000 schools being closed by the end 2018, UNICEF said, depriving some 500,000 children of their right to learning. "Education is under fire in Afghanistan," UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore said in a statement. "The senseless attacks on schools; the killing, injury and abduction of teachers; and the threats against education are destroying the hopes and dreams of an entire generation of children." Using schools as voter registration centres for parliamentary elections last year was one factor in the increase in attacks, UNICEF said. About 3.7 million school children between the ages of seven and 17 -- accounting for almost half of all school-aged children in Afghanistan -- do not attending school, according to the UN agency. It blamed insecurity, poverty and discrimination against girls -- who make up about 60 percent of children not in education. The Taliban opposed education for girls when they ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001. After the Islamist extremists were toppled in a US-led invasion, millions of girls began to receive an education. But schools, students and teachers have been coming under increasing fire. Last month, gunmen blew up a girls' school in western Farah province. The incident followed the killing of a school teacher in northern Faryab province earlier this month. According to the United Nations, 3,804 civilians -- including more than 900 children-- were killed in Afghanistan in 2018, with another 7,189 wounded. It was the deadliest year to date for civilians in Afghanistan's conflict. Tons of garbage from Canada were illegally exported to the Philippines from 2013 to 2014. MANILA, Philippines Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. confirmed on Monday (May 27) that all 69 containers of illegally shipped garbage are all set for repatriation to Canada. In his tweet, Locsin said the containers of garbage are scheduled to be shipped back to the North American country on Thursday (May 30) following fumigation in Subic. All containers containing garbage cleaned and ready to go, Locsin tweeted. Waiting for a couple of documents and routine permission from China for transshipment to Canada. Departure is May 30, he added. President Rodrigo Duterte did not allow the delay of repatriation of the garbage shipment even as the Canadian government already hired a private firm to ship them back to Canada by end of June. Canada missed the May 15 deadline of taking back the trash shipment which led to the recall of Philippine diplomats in Canada. Malacanang also directed Philippine government officials to refrain from travelling to Canada or giving travel authorities for official trips to Canada. They are, likewise, directed to limit interactions with the Canadian government. MP The post Canada trash ready to go on May 30 DFA appeared first on UNTV News. WE ARE finite creatures and able to grasp only facets of truth at a time. It is only by coming together and pooling our individual facets of truth that we gain a deeper understanding of the moments relevant truth and move forward. Theres the rub. We, as a nation, are moving sideways politically (we are immature), economically (we are poor), educationally (we are not critical and innovative), and religiously (we depend on God too much) is that instead of pooling and weaving our respective truths into a meaningful whole, we hog them as the only truth and exclude other peoples truths. Like President Rodrigo Duterte is right about many things but also wrong about many others. But so are the Liberal Party, the Communist Party of the Philippines-New Peoples Army (CPP-NPA), and the Catholic Church. We are moving sideways because these major players claim to be solely right and the others wrong. Thus, the Liberal Partys Otso Deretso and the CPP-NPAs Makabayan lost ground in the last elections because they ignored the truths of the Duterte administration that voters saw and appreciated. But likewise Duterte and supporters will lose political ground if they insist that all their other ways are right. One group that supported Otso Deretso posted this God save the Philippines (from Duterte, presumably ) message on social media. They are right about the Philippines needing to be saved. However, we are not a homogeneous country. Millions are very poor, a few are very rich. What will God save the rich from? And what will God save the poor from? My own individual truth about this is that we all need to be saved from ourselves, from our disunity stemming from opportunism, weakness of character, and lack of the courage of our convictions. And I am afraid God cannot save us from ourselves. Not when His representatives in the Catholic Church also insist that they alone possess the truth and nobody else. Not when bishops and priests further divide us by standing by their lifestyle on the side of the oligarchy and only by word on the side of the poor. We have to save ourselves from ourselves. But we cannot do that as a faceless, leaderless mob that can only destroy but not build. Somebody has to inspire and motivate us to unite for the greater good of the bigger number. In human history nations have always been led out of bondage by a charismatic leader. Think Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore, Mao Tse Tung of China, Ho Chi Minh of Vietnam, etc. Our insipid educational and religious systems, however, are not set up to produce a selfless, non-politically-motivated unifier- liberator. It scares to think that we either produce a Filipino Moses who will lead us out of darkness or end up a failed state. Erick Hurtado wants to escape the abandoned Caracas building that has been his home for eight years, but despite his daily nightmare, he prefers to wait there for the abode promised to him by Venezuela's embattled government. That's the dream shared by 120 people living in Jehovah Gire -- the name the residents have given the unfinished building that was initially supposed to house the justice ministry in Petare, one of the capital's poorest neighborhoods. Most of those living in the building have been victims either of natural catastrophes or Venezuela's crippling economic crisis. "I've had enough of living here ... if I had somewhere to go, I'd leave this hole," Hurtado, a 42-year-old moto-taxi driver, told AFP at the building, which offers a view over Petare's immense slums. There's been no water in the building for the last four months. The residents improvised by digging a hole in the asphalt road outside to create a makeshift tub where they could wash themselves and their clothes. A plastic bucket serves as a toilet, there's electricity only on the ground floor and illness is widespread. "There are epidemics, mosquitoes, cockroaches, rats," complained Roni Aranguren, a 42-year-old builder who came to live here with his wife and four children after losing his job and his home. He has a simple dream: "A worthy house." Some 80 children live in Jehovah Gire, but only around 50 go to school and even then they're often absent due to a lack of transport and food, said Stephanie Marcelot from the Rayiluz NGO, which is helping the residents. Many children suffer from bloated stomachs, a sign of chronic malnutrition, while cases of dengue fever, scabies and bronchitis are not uncommon. Over the years, people have forgotten why the building was abandoned. Some say the civil servants refused to work in a neighborhood considered dangerous, says Rayiluz's Katiuska Camargo. There is hope -- some former residents have managed to obtain apartments thanks to a government program that has provided 2.6 million homes since 2011, but the opposition claims that figure is inflated. According to Roberto Orta, president of the Caracas real estate board, 155 mostly private buildings were occupied by squatters between 2003 and 2007, with 241 more expropriated "without compensation" between 2006 and 2008 during the late socialist leader Hugo Chavez's presidency. The most infamous illegal occupation was of the Tower of David, a skyscraper that housed 1,150 families between 2007 and 2014 but has since been abandoned. That building was so notorious as a haven for squatters and gangs it was depicted in the US TV series "Homeland." But the Jehovah Gire residents say they don't want to be viewed as squatters and have formed a cooperative to be recognized as victims. And they hope to soon be transferred to a housing complex in the Caracas suburbs. Broadcaster Ramon Tulfo | Photo via Ramon Tulfo Facebook page MANILA, Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has re-appointed broadcaster Ramon Mon Tulfo Jr., as his special envoy for public diplomacy to China. Based on a document released by Malacanang on Tuesday (May 28), Tulfo will have another six months to serve the position he first held on October 2018. Tulfos appointment paper was signed by Duterte on Monday. READ: Duterte appoints broadcaster Ramon Tulfo as special envoy to China He recently drew flak from several labor groups for his remark that Chinese workers are better than Filipino construction workers, calling some of them lazy and slowpokes. Tulfo, also a columnist, is the older brother of former Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo and broadcasters Ben, Raffy and Erwin Tulfo. The siblings are known supporters of the Duterte administration. The post Duterte re-appoints Mon Tulfo as Special Envoy to China appeared first on UNTV News. AMID speculations over his health, President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, May 28, flew to Japan to attend Nikkei's 25th International Conference on the Future of Asia.Duterte left the Villamor Air Base AMID speculations over his health, President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, May 28, flew to Japan to attend Nikkei's 25th International Conference on the Future of Asia. Duterte left the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City at around 4:53 p.m. The annual gathering, according to Nikkei on its official website, will be graced by political, economic and academic leaders from the Asia-Pacific region who will "offer their opinions frankly and freely on regional issues and the role of Asia in the world." In a press statement on Tuesday, the Palace said Duterte, who is expected to deliver a keynote speech on May 31, would emphasize the Philippines's "development goals and accomplishments, foreign policy thrusts, and insights on regional and global developments." "President Rodrigo Roa Duterte leaves for Tokyo today for a working visit to further deepen the Philippines political and economic engagement with its key strategic partner, Japan," Malacanang said. "This will be the Presidents third visit to Japan, which he described as a friend of the Philippines that is 'closer than a brother," it added. The President's attendance to the 25th International Conference on the Future of Asia marks his third visit to Japan since assuming office in 2016. His previous visits to Japan were in October 2016 and October 2017, respectively. Japan continues to be the Philippines biggest official development assistance partner, a major source of foreign direct investments, second largest trading partner and fourth highest source of tourist arrivals. Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Meynardo Montealegre earlier said Duterte would likewise highlight Asia's role in charting its "own future" in his speech during the annual conference. "Well, the President will likely assert Asia's role in charting its own future even as we affirmed the larger international frameworks and mechanisms that have given birth through the Asian century we now enjoy," Montealegre said in a press conference on May 24. Story continues "He will likely also highlight how addressing domestic imperatives provides the conditions by which we will collectively shape Asia's future," he added. On the sidelines of the annual forum, the President is scheduled to meet Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The Palace said Duterte's meeting with Abe would "reaffirm the valued friendship between the Philippines and Japan and renew the shared commitment to further strengthen special ties and realize the common goals of Philippines-Japan Strengthened Strategic Partnership." "The leaders will review the progress of agreements made in previous meetings," it said. "They will also discuss cooperation in infrastructure development, trade and investments, agriculture, labor, defense, maritime security and maritime domain awareness, people-to-people exchanges, and the pursuit of just and lasting peace and progress in Mindanao," it added. Duterte's visit to Japan is also expected to secure 10 deals that will be signed between Japanese and Philippine firms. The Palace said the President would take the opportunity to meet with key Japanese industry and tourism leaders at a business forum "to encourage Japanese private sector investments in the country and to further heighten interest in the Philippines as a Japanese tourist destination of choice." Duterte would also meet with the Filipino community in Japan and personally convey his appreciation for their "continuing sacrifice and contribution to the countrys socio-economic development," Malacanang said. (SunStar Philippines) MANILA, Philippines The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will release next week the list of fake vinegar products with synthetic acetic acid. FDA officer-in-charge Eric Domingo said they are still testing vinegar brands suspected to be produced not from natural fermentation and biogenic ingredients but from synthetic acetic acid. The FDA made the announcement following the call of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to release the list of the alleged fake vinegar products available in the market to ensure the safety of consumers. READ: FDA, PNRI urged to release list of synthetic vinegar brands A study conducted by the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute-Department of Science and Technology (PNRI-DOST) found that eight out of 10 vinegar products in the market are made from synthetic acetic acid and not from natural sources. The research team explained that vinegar and other condiments from natural or plant-based sources are safer than those derived from petroleum-based sources. One can only imagine all the impurities and residues from the petroleum by-products, which can be the source of various degenerative diseases, said Raymond Sucgang, section head of the PNRI Nuclear Analytical Techniques Applications Section. The PNRI did not mention the brand names of the products used in the test but it assured that the results of the vinegar studies have already been submitted to the FDA. Earlier, the DA advised consumers to exercise caution and discernment in buying vinegar from commercial establishments. The department also recommends that consumers buy natural vinegar made out of coconut sap and water, sugarcane, nipa and fruits which are readily available in the market. For its part, the Department of Health (DOH) said once the PNRI study has been validated by the FDA, they will order the pull out of vinegar brands proven synthetic from local markets. At present, there are a total of 274 vinegar brands duly registered by the FDA. The post FDA to release list of fake vinegar next week appeared first on UNTV News. Two Florida teenagers, who had recently graduated high school, were tragically killed while on a celebratory trip to Peru this week. Southeast High School students Albert Ales and Zachary Morris, both 18, were exploring the city of Cusco on Friday, May 24 when they were killed in a tragic accident, their school confirmed on Twitter. Our Southeast Community is heartbroken after hearing the unimaginable news that recent IB graduates Albert Ales and Zachary Morris passed away yesterday in a tragic accident while exploring Peru, the school in Bradenton, Florida wrote. Our thoughts and prayers are centered around their family and friends, they added in their statement of the students who were a part of the International Baccalaureate IB program and graduated on May 18. Albert Ales (left) and Zachary Morris | Southeast High School (2) RELATED: Oregon State University Student, 21, Falls to Her Death After Crossing Retaining Wall to Take Photo Ales and Morris were reportedly riding on a motorcycle, exploring the city they had just arrived in, when a bus hit the two boys, according to Peruvian newspaper La Republica. The teens were rushed to a nearby hospital, but succumbed to their severe injuries just a few hours later, the outlet reports. The driver of the bus was taken to the Tahuantinsuyo police station and detained by authorities, according to La Republica. At this time, it is unclear if police will press charges against the bus driver. In the aftermath of the incident, Ales and Morris have been remembered by their school district as bright, young men who were planning to attend Yale and the University of Central Florida in the fall, WFLA8 reports. Speaking to the outlet, the teens friends John Ferguson and Anthony Sevarino and engineering teacher Richard Platt recalled their special charisma, character and talents. They lit up any room that they were in. I mean, come on, the charisma that they came in, the confidence that they had was incredible, Ferguson shared with WFLA8. Story continues Albert was the guy that if you had a problem he was going to fix it, said Sevarino. Zach is just the smartest guy you would ever see. He was so confident in his speaking. Not only is it a great loss for us, its a great loss to our country. These young men they exemplified the best in what our school can produce and what our state can produce. They were the best, Platt added. On Tuesday, the school district plans to honor Ales and Morris by wearing orange or a Hawaiian shirt. RELATED: University of Maryland Freshman, 18, Dies of Adenovirus as 8 More Students Are Infected Even if you didnt have the pleasure of knowing them or getting close to them, it would mean a lot to their friends in the graduated class and those still students at SEHS to show the love and support, the announcement from SEHSeminoles Noles Nation reads on Facebook. In the meantime, please just try and think of all the good and memories of those two boys living their lives to the fullest, they continued. Class of 2019 and the Seminole family will forever keep you in our hearts, they added in a separate post. World number one Naomi Osaka was just two points from a sensational Roland Garros exit on Tuesday before securing her place in the second round where she was joined by defending champion Simona Halep who also needed three sets to survive. Top seed Osaka, bidding to add the French Open to her US and Australian Open titles, defeated Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 0-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-1. However, she came within a whisker of becoming only the second top seed to lose in the first round in Paris in the modern era after Angelique Kerber in 2017. "I think this is the most nervous I have ever been my entire life during a match," said Osaka. She was also totting up the reasons why she was so under-powered. "First time playing a Grand Slam as No. 1. I have won the last two, so I kind of want to win this one really bad. "Also I have never played on the Chatrier court before. This was my first time. And, yeah, I kind of feel like I'm having the thought of wanting to prove myself again, so..." World number 90 Schmiedlova, who hadn't won a match at the tournament since 2014, twice served for victory in the 10th and 12th games of the second set. At one stage, she was just two points away from a famous victory. "It hurts that I lost so many chances," said Schmiedlova. "She's the number one, it was not easy in my head." Osaka, who had arrived in Paris still feeling the effects of a hand injury suffered in Rome, raced through the final set and will face former world number one and two-time major winner Victoria Azarenka. Osaka ended the match with 10 aces, 36 winners and 38 unforced errors -- just four of those coming in the decider. Azarenka, a semi-finalist in 2013, reached the second round for the first time since 2015 with a 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) win over 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko. Third seed Halep overcame a second-set blip against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic to win 6-2, 3-6, 6-1. Halep, who won her maiden Grand Slam title in Paris last year after three previous final defeats, will next face Poland's Magda Linette. "The level of the match was great and her level in the second set was really high," said Halep. "So I tried to make her move more and that was better for me. "There were nice emotions to be back on this court." German fifth seed Alexander Zverev, a quarter-finalist in 2018, battled past Australia's John Millman 7-6 (7/4), 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 in a shade over four hours. The champion in Geneva last weekend fired 57 winners past world number 56 Millman who stunned Roger Federer at the US Open last year. - Karlovic wins at 40 - However, he also committed 73 unforced errors on a blustery day in the French capital. "John is a tough player so I knew it would be difficult today," said Zverev, bidding to become the first German man to win the Roland Garros title since Henner Henkel in 1937. Next up for Zverev is Swedish qualifier Mikael Ymer, the world number 148 of Ethiopian origin, who marked his Grand Slam debut with a 6-0, 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) win over Slovenia's Blaz Rola. Argentine eighth seed Juan Martin del Potro, a semi-finalist in 2009 and 2018, made the second round with a 3-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 win over Chilean world number 58 Nicolas Jarry. "I think I'm playing well at the moment, but my main goal is still the knee, my health," said Del Potro who is still feeling his way back after knee surgery. Next up for the giant Argentine is a clash against Japan's Yoshihito Nishioka. Canada's Bianca Andreescu, the surprise champion at Indian Wells, marked her Roland Garros debut by beating Marie Bouzkova of the Czech Republic 5-7, 6-4, 6-4. The 18-year-old, playing for the first time since Miami after suffering a shoulder injury, hit 58 winners and 60 unforced errors. Ivo Karlovic made a mockery of his 40 years to beat relative spring chicken, 37-year-old Feliciano Lopez, in the oldest ever men's match-up at Roland Garros. Croatian Karlovic, the tallest player on the tour at 6ft 11in (2.11m), defeated Lopez 7-6 (7/4), 7-5, 6-7 (7/9), 7-5. He is the oldest man to win a Grand Slam match since Ken Rosewall in 1978. A still from CCTVs video of Bernie Sanderss press conference about a trip to Nicaragua in 1985. Photo: Screenshot via CCTV A week ago, the New York Times reported on Bernie Sanderss 1980s-vintage foreign-policy stands, which at times crossed over from mere opposition to American policy to outright support for communist governments. Sanders initially refused to speak with the reporters, but after the article appeared, he called one of them and gave an extremely crusty interview. Now he has a video framing the issue, which he says is about my opposition to war and refusal to apologize for his opinions. I was right about Vietnam. I was right about Iraq. I will do everything in my power to prevent a war with Iran. I apologize to no one. pic.twitter.com/Lna3oBZMKB Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) May 24, 2019 Any politician is going to frame issues selectively, but Sanders is presenting a spin on the controversy so selective it completely fails to convey any of the points relevant to the controversy. During the 1980s, the Reagan administration was giving military aid to the Contras, a right-wing guerrilla insurgency attacking the Nicaraguan government. Most Democrats opposed aiding the Contras while still deploring the communist Nicaraguan government. The Times shows that Sanders went well beyond mere opposition to funding the war. He wrote to Sandinista leaders that American news media had not reflected fairly the goals and accomplishments of your administration. On a visit to the country, he attended a Sandinista celebration at which the crowd chanted, Here, there, everywhere, the Yankee will die, and complained that American reporters ignored the truth about Nicaraguas government, telling a CBS reporter, You are worms. This is all highly relevant to his presidential campaign. It not only sheds light on his foreign-policy thinking but also illustrates the sorts of attacks Sanders would face in a general election, if nominated. Given that he identifies as a democratic socialist and promises radical change, his defensive comments about a communist regime would help Republicans paint him in the most extreme light. In his post-publication interview, Sanders largely refused to explain these comments. Instead, he berated the reporter, Sydney Ember, with insinuations that she lacks a basic factual understanding of the issues. Ember: In the top of our story, we talk about the rally you attended in Managua and a wire report at the time said that there were anti-American chants from the crowd. Sanders: The United States at that time I dont know how much you know about this was actively supporting the Contras to overthrow the government. So that theres anti-American sentiment? I remember that, I remember that event very clearly. Ember: You do recall hearing those chants? I think the wire report has them saying, Here, there, everywhere, the Yankee will die. Sanders: They were fighting against American Huh huh yes, what is your point? Ember: I wanted to Sanders: Are you shocked to learn that there was anti-American sentiment? Ember: My point was I wanted to know if you had heard that. Sanders: I dont remember, no. Of course there was anti-American sentiment there. This was a war being funded by the United States against the people of Nicaragua. People were being killed in that war. Ember: Do you think if you had heard that directly, you would have stayed at the rally? Sanders: I think Sydney, with all due respect, you dont understand a word that Im saying. Ember is asking a pertinent factual question: Did Sanders hear the Yankees will die chant? His response to this question is to insist she is unaware of major historical events in the region, events she had just written a long New York Times story touching on and surely knew about. Sanders again deflected questions about his praise for Ortega and accusing Ember of factual ignorance: Ember: Do you believe you had an accurate view of President Ortega at the time? Im wondering if youre Sanders: This was not about Ortega. Do you understand? I dont know if you do or not. Do you know that the United States overthrew the government of Chile way back? Do you happen to know that? Do you? Im asking you a simple question. Ember was questioning him aggressively. But she was not demanding he apologize. Nor was the questioning focused on his opposition to war, which most Democrats at the time shared. Is Sanderss plan for dealing with attacks on these statements, if hes nominated, to change the subject and lash out at the media? That doesnt seem like a great plan. Japan's Naomi Osaka battled back from a set and a break down to reach the Roland Garros second round on Tuesday while Grand Slam under-achiever Alexander Zverev needed four hours to get through his opener. Top seed Osaka, bidding to add the French Open to her US and Australian Open titles, defeated Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 0-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-1. However, she came within a whisker of becoming only the second top seed to lose in the first round in Paris in the modern era after Angelique Kerber in 2017. "I was really close, so it hurts I lost so many chances," said Schmiedlova. "Maybe I felt like it was against the world number one. It was not easy in my head." World number 90 Schmiedlova, who hadn't won a match at the tournament since 2014, twice served for victory in the 10th and 12th games of the second set. At one stage, she was just two points away from a famous victory. But Osaka, who had arrived in Paris still feeling the effects of a hand injury suffered in Rome, battled back to set-up a second round duel with former world number one and two-time major winner Victoria Azarenka. Osaka was broken three times in the opening set, losing it in just 20 minutes. The 21-year-old hit 13 unforced errors while the Slovakian didn't need to hit a single winner. Former top 30 player Schmiedlova failed to serve out the tie at 5-4 and 6-5 in the second set. That was the cue for Osaka to illustrate the gap of 89 places between her and the slender blonde in the world rankings. She broke three times in the 25-minute final set to extend her streak at the Slams to 15 successive wins. Osaka ended the match with 10 aces, 36 winners and 38 unforced errors with just four of those coming in the decider. Azarenka, a semi-finalist in 2013, reached the second round for the first time since 2015 with a 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) win over 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko. World number 43 Azarenka triumphed in a match punctuated by 13 breaks of serve and 60 unforced errors by Ostapenko who hasn't won a match at the tournament in her last two visits. German fifth seed Zverev, a quarter-finalist in 2018, battled past Australia's John Millman 7-6 (7/4), 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 in a shade over four hours. The champion in Geneva last weekend fired 57 winners past world number 56 Millman who stunned Roger Federer at the US Open last year. - Karlovic wins at 40 - However, he also committed 73 unforced errors on a blustery day in the French capital. "John is a tough player so I knew it would be difficult today," said Zverev, bidding to become the first German man to win the Roland Garros title since Henner Henkel in 1937. Next up for Zverev is Swedish qualifier Mikael Ymer, the world number 148 of Ethiopian origin, who marked his Grand Slam debut with a 6-0, 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) win over Slovenia's Blaz Rola. Argentine eighth seed Juan Martin del Potro, a semi-finalist in 2009 and 2018, made the second round with a 3-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 win over Chilean world number 58 Nicolas Jarry. "I think I'm playing well at the moment, but my main goal is still the knee, my health," said Del Potro who is still feeling his way back after knee surgery. Next up for the giant Argentine is a clash against Japan's Yoshihito Nishioka. Canada's Bianca Andreescu, the surprise champion at Indian Wells, marked her Roland Garros debut by beating Marie Bouzkova of the Czech Republic 5-7, 6-4, 6-4. The 18-year-old, playing for the first time since Miami after suffering a shoulder injury, hit 58 winners and 60 unforced errors. Ivo Karlovic made a mockery of his 40 years to beat relative spring chicken, 37-year-old Feliciano Lopez, in the oldest ever men's match-up at Roland Garros. Croatian Karlovic, the tallest player on the tour at 6ft 11in (2.11m), defeated Lopez 7-6 (7/4), 7-5, 6-7 (7/9), 7-5. He is the oldest man to win a Grand Slam match since Ken Rosewall in 1978. Later Tuesday, defending champion Simona Halep faces Australia's Ajla Tomljanovic, the world number 47, who reached the fourth round in 2014. OVER P200 million worth of cocaine was recovered in the waters of Gubat town in Sorsogon, the latest in a series of floating cocaine hauls off the countrys east coast.A report from the Bicol Region OVER P200 million worth of cocaine was recovered in the waters of Gubat town in Sorsogon, the latest in a series of floating cocaine hauls off the countrys east coast. A report from the Bicol Region Police Office said three fishermen recovered 12 boxes of cocaine while fishing in the vicinity of Barangay Bagacay around 12 noon on Monday, May 27, 2019. The fishermen were identified as Melvin Gregorio, Lobert Ergina and John Mark Nabong. They immediately reported and turned over the contraband to the Gubat police office. According to the Crime Laboratory, the seized cocaine weighed a total of 39 kilos and have an estimated street value of P218.4 million. The recovery of the items with help of the members of the community is once again a reaffirmation of the solid partnership of the police and the public. PNP Bicol vows to continue doing its part to ward-off any illegal activities and ensure the safety and welfare of the people it serves and protect, Bicol Regional Office Director Arnel Escobal said. Since February 10, the Philippine National Police said over 100 kilograms of cocaine have been recovered in the waters off the country's eastern seaboard, particularly in the provinces of Aurora, Quezon, Camarines Norte, and Camarines Sur in Luzon, down to the Dinagat group of islands in Caraga region, Davao Oriental, Surigao Del Norte, and Surigao Del Sur in Mindanao. Earlier, PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde said the hundred millions of pesos worth of cocaine recovered in the country seem to be intended for Australia. (SunStar Philippines) P218 million worth of suspected cocaine was found floating off Gubat, Sorsogon waters by fishermen on Monday (May 27). Based on the report Gubat Municipal Police Station, three fishermen netted 12 boxes of illegal drugs from the waters of Barangay Bagcacay. Authorities suspected the 39 kilos of cocaine blocks were not intended for the Philippines. Halos lahat ng package ang lagay ay BOX so maybe may mga pa-stored sila na iyon ang kanilang mga cocaine na orders na ide-deliver from somewhere else pero not intended for the Philippines, (All the packages has BOX written on it so maybe they are made for storage and that those cocaine are orders to be delievred from somewhere else but not intended for the Philippine) according to the Philippine National Police (PNP)-Police Regional Office (PRO) 5 Spokesperson PMaj. Malou Calubaquib. The PNP Bicol region will turn over the blocks of cocaine to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). Dadalhin pa siya sa Metro Manila for the schedule for destruction of illegal drugs kasi hindi naman siyang gagamitin as evidence so hindi siya itatago, iyong mga recovered so automatic for destruction iyan, (The [blocks of cocaine] will be delivered to Metro manila for the schedule for destruction of illegal drugs because it will not be used as evidence. They are all for automatic destruction) Calubaquib said. The national police lauded the cooperation of the three fishermen in Gubat, Sorsogon. They will be awarded on Monday (June 3) by the PNP-PRO 5.(with reports from Allan Manansala) The post P200 million worth of cocaine found floating off Sorsogon waters appeared first on UNTV News. THE employees of SM nationwide came out in full force to participate in the Brigada Eskwela 2019.The malls human resources department and SM Cares spearheaded the event, including in Cebu.Employees THE employees of SM nationwide came out in full force to participate in the Brigada Eskwela 2019. The malls human resources department and SM Cares spearheaded the event, including in Cebu. Employees volunteered their time to support the Department of Educations annual classroom clean-up campaign, which prepares schools for the opening of classes next week. The participants from SM City Consolacion, SM City Cebu and SM Seaside City Cebu repainted tables and chairs in Casili Elementary School in Consolacion, Mabolo Elementary School in Cebu City and Basak Community School in Barangay Basak San Nicolas, Cebu City, respectively. The SM Employee Volunteerism Program led by SM Cares and the malls human resources department encourages employees to exercise their social responsibility and immerse themselves in the community. The participation in the Brigada Eskwela was done on top of the institutionalized community projects of the company that benefit children, senior citizens, the environment, farmers and persons with disabilities. SM Cares, a division of SM Foundation, collaborates with communities and various organizations that promote positive change. SM malls have been supporting the physical upkeep of the schools in the Philippines. Their activity aims to improve the classroom environment through community-initiated efforts. Ryan Martin Cabanas MANILA, Philippines Operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested a stuntman who works at a known TV network on Monday (May 27). CIDG Detective and Special Operations Unit Chief Lt Col. Domingo Soriano said that suspect Ryan Martin Cabanas, 38, was nabbed inside his home in Cainta, Rizal while being served with a warrant of arrest for charges of illegal recruitment. Soriano said the operation was prompted by a number of complaints they received from Cabanas alleged victims. During the operation, authorities confiscated from Cabanas a number of firearms and ammunition including an unlicensed caliber .22 rifle. An identification card and badge of an agent of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) were also recovered from the suspect. Soriano said Cabanas was using the ID and the badge to introduce himself as an NBI volunteer agent. Cabanas is now facing charges for violation of R.A. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Law. (with details from Lea Ylagan) The post Stuntman posing as NBI agent nabbed for illegal recruitment appeared first on UNTV News. INSTEAD of a light rail transit (LRT) system, Metro Cebu will have a monorail based on the revised proposal of the Davao-based Udenna Group.Udenna Infrastructure Corporation and its foreign partner were INSTEAD of a light rail transit (LRT) system, Metro Cebu will have a monorail based on the revised proposal of the Davao-based Udenna Group. Udenna Infrastructure Corporation and its foreign partner were granted original proponent status (OPS) for its proposed Cebu Rail Project under an unsolicited proposal submitted to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) last year. Using the monorail technology, the project cost will be brought down to about P80 billion, half of the estimated cost of an LRT system, said Manuel Jamonir, assistant vice president for operations and business development manager of Udenna Infrastructure. A monorail is a rapid transport system that runs on a single rail and is usually elevated. Jamonir said the DOTr accepted their unsolicited proposal and granted them an OPS in December 2018. He declined to identify their foreign partner, saying he was not allowed to disclose it yet. An OPS gives the company the right to match any competing offer in a Swiss challenge, a procurement process that invites other companies to bid for the project as mandated under the BOT Law. The awarding of OPS to Udenna temporarily shut the door on another proponent of a monorail system in Cebu. Jamonir said Udenna's project proposal is being reviewed by the Department of Transportation (DOTr). He was hopeful that the DOTr would conclude its review by next month and endorse the project to the Investment Coordination Committee (ICC) of the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) for technical review before it goes up to the Neda Board for approval. "We will go through the usual process of project approval. Right now, the project is being reviewed by the DOTr," he said in a telephone interview. Neda Director General and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia confirmed in an email that the project has not been endorsed to the ICC yet. If the project is awarded to them, Jamonir said they hope to begin construction of the infrastructure component by 2020 and complete the entire project three to four years later. Story continues "It would all depend on when the project is approved and if it is awarded to us. This is still subject to a Swiss challenge," Jamonir said. Under their revised proposal, Jamonir said there will still be two lines, Central Line and Airport Line. The Central Line, however, will be shorter at 17 kilometers from Talisay City to Cebu City while the Airport Line will cover about 9 kilometers from Cebu City to the Mactan Cebu International Airport on Mactan Island. Both lines will converge at an interchange that will be established in Cebu City. The details would be determined in the detailed engineering studies, Jamonir said. The original proposal was for the Central Line to serve commuters from Danao City in the north to Carcar City in the south. Read: Cebu to have LRT subway-elevated system Jamonir said they will first focus on the highly urbanized areas before expanding to cover the entire Metro Cebu. "The plan is for the simultaneous implementation of the two lines. It will all depend on the detailed engineering design," he said. The project forms part of the proposed Metro Cebu Integrated Intermodal Transport System, which will also include the much-delayed P16-billion Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. The Udenna Group, which is led by Davao City businessman Dennis Uy, was also awarded OPS for the Davao Airport rehabilitation project through listed subsidiary Chelsea Logistics and Infrastructure Holdings Corporation. It also seeks to undertake three other big-ticket projects in Davao: the P30-billion monorail project, the P8-billion Sasa Port modernization project, and the Davao Intermodal Transport Hub. Udenna is also behind the Clark Global City mixed-use development in Pampanga. Udenna Corporation and Chelsea are also part of the Mislatel Consortium with China Telecommunications Corporation. The consortium was named in November 2018 as the new major player in the telecommunications industry. (SunStar Philippines) New global brand campaign celebrates Sofitels French roots, offering a modern spin on design, gastronomy, arts & culture, well-being and more PARIS, May 28, 2019 As the first international luxury hotel brand to originate from France, Sofitel Hotels & Resorts is a renowned global ambassador of French style and art de vivre. In celebration of the brands birthplace and heritage, Sofitel is launching a new global brand campaign that reaches deeper into its French roots. Live The French Way, the campaigns brand promise, pays homage to Sofitels French origin, demonstrates the eternal allure of French style, and reinforces the brands time-honored position as an ambassador of French art de vivre around the world. The goal of Live the French Way is to reinforce Sofitels position in the luxury segment and leverage its inherent strengths, while also differentiating the brand from its competitors and injecting a sense of modernity into the brand. We think guests will be delighted to experience authentic French touches through an immersive and luxurious journey into Sofitels world, wherever they may travel, said Steven Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer, Accor. The brand campaign, which will introduce new programming and guest experiences throughout the year, was co-created with BETC ETOILE ROUGE, a full-service Paris-based agency offering strategic, creative, and production expertise for luxury, fashion, beauty and hospitality brands. The campaign integrates the finest of French passions, with exclusive and inspired collaborations in film, music and food. Celebrated photographer and director Charlotte Wales was engaged to design a film where worldly voyageurs dive into chic and whimsical experiences. Shot on location in France and China, the campaign invites Sofitel guests to experience the French way of living in an authentic and indulgent way. Charlottes ethereal images make use of soft lighting and subtle composition, pushing her subjects to the forefront in the most sophisticated manner. The voice of the Live the French Way campaign is none other than Frances most au courant pop icon, Clara Luciani. Influenced as much by Francoise Hardy as by Nico or Patti Smith, Clara is a highly creative, prolific and endearing artist, and has written some of the most illuminating songs in recent French music. Claras original track, En Voyage was written and recorded exclusively for Sofitel. One of the most extraordinary elements of Live the French Way, will be the introduction of Les Diners Extraordinaires, reinforcing Sofitels French culinary heritage with a supremely luxurious touch. Celebrity Chef Yannick Alleno will create once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences, presenting the best of modern French cuisine in spectacular, culturally rich settings all over the world. Keeping with the brands free-spirited persona, guests will not discover the exact dinner location until they arrive, providing a spontaneous, joyful and elegant experience of arts de la table. The campaign will also come to life on social networks through the hashtag #LiveTheFrenchWay. Posts from the brand and its hotels will showcase the glamorous, chic and spontaneous nature of French style, with guests and travelers encouraged to share their best Sofitel experiences as well. A supporting media plan, which will be introduced in 2020, will complement the Live The French Way global roll out and activities. Sofitel is a global ambassador of French savoir-faire and art de vivre, said Joao Rocco, Vice President, Luxury Brand Management, Sofitel Brands. Our Frenchness is the attribute most frequently praised by our guests and most often mentioned within their feedback, so we know that our culture is important to them. Our unique sense of joie de vivre is felt at our hotels in more than 40 countries across five continents, and its a defining element that has become the signature of our brand. Modern luxury voyageurs are invited to eat, sleep, enjoy, travel, stay, celebrate and Live the French Way at Sofitel Hotels & Resorts through the brand passions of design, gastronomy, art & culture, and well-being. Upon arrival, guests are greeted in French by Sofitel staff wearing made-to-measure designs created by Parisian-based fashion designer Lea Peckre. Senses are awakened by the wafting scent of Essence de Sofitel, a gorgeous fragrance created by renowned perfumer Lucien Ferrero, which wafts through the hotel lobby and public spaces. Sofitel Sound Signature by DJ Mosey sets a sultry and insouciant atmosphere. In the late afternoon, guests indulge in Le Gouter or LAperitif in the hotel bars, followed by Gastronomie Francaise in the dining rooms. With a characteristically light French touch, Sofitel will continue to offer a whirlwind of culturally fascinating events all year long, from photography exhibitions and fashion week events, to glittering, star-studded La Nuit by Sofitel parties, to Fete de la Musique celebrations around the summer solstice, and Sofitel Wine Days during the annual French wine harvest. A partnership with Diner en Blanc in North America invites Sofitel guests to skip the wait lists and enjoy a VIP experience within one of the most sought-after French cultural events in the world. Credit: CC0 Public Domain Children from undereducated, low-income families face a greater risk of poor academic performance. But schools are capable of decreasing these risks. Experts from the Higher School of Economics have studied international experience in addressing these challenges. The results have presented in Journal of Modern Foreign Psychology. Above Barriers Many international studies have demonstrated that family context impacts a child's school progress, showing a correlation between parents' socio-economic status and children's achievements. Low levels of education, income and cultural interest in the family often have a negative impact on the progress of school-age children and as a result may hinder their social mobility. However, strict predetermination is not inevitable. Children may overcome their circumstances and study well, expanding their opportunities in life. It is important to support such students and create a favourable school environment for them. Having studied the experience of Russian schools that achieved high results despite students' family circumstances, as well as similar practices in Great Britain, France, Germany, Spain, Ireland, Portugal, and Belgium, Sergey Kosaretsky, Aleksandra Mikhailova and Evgeny Isaev suggest some support measures in their paper. IQ.HSE selected some interesting ideas to support socially vulnerable students. Subsidies and Monitoring Additional funding and remedial education are the most obvious approaches that many countries use to address these challenges. Schools that teach a large number of kids from families experiencing economic hardship are granted special subsidies or increased funding. It is often up to the schools to decide which areas should be supported. For example, schools can hire additional staff or pay bonuses to teachers who work with underachieving students. These additional funds can also be used to create advisory centres and expert teams. Money can be invested in professional development for teachers or to design language programmes for migrants' children. One example of a programme that provides additional funding is the London Challenge in Great Britain. This programme started locally but later evolved to include other regions. It focuses on socially vulnerable demographic groups and aims to prevent underachievement by working with low performers. Schools with mixed-ability students receive additional funding, which stimulates teaching and organization of additional classes. Remedial education includes programmes to develop basic literacy and arithmetic skills. But it also includes a system to monitor "those who may lag behind and fall out of the system in order to minimize the risks of such students dropping out," the researchers explained. In addition to these general measures to promote academic performance, different countries have their own national approaches with different areas of focus. Portugal: Preventing Drop-out A 2012 programme adopted in Portugal that aims to combat "early drop-out from schools" is completely personalized in that underachieving students receive individual curricula. Children who risk failing the public exam in 4th and 6th grades receive additional classes and trial exams in order to determine their levels. Classes may be formed depending on academic performance, which allows underachievers to receive more targeted support. Belgium: Success Tutors Another country-specific option involves special teachers of success. In Belgium, schools with a large number of socially vulnerable students employ staff members who identify children who are at risk of academic failure and help them. Such support in different subjects is, in fact, a form of free tutoring, the authors explain. Ireland: Fighting Inequality Starting in Preschool In Ireland, the Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools programme has been in place since 2005. It aims to begin equalizing opportunities for education as early as preschool. Kids are offered a year of free studies before they go on to elementary school. Another programme, Home School Community Liaison, helps to build a liaison between the school and the family. A programme representative in the school is relieved of routine teaching duties, which allows him or her to focus on working with families that come from lower socio-economic backgrounds. This representative is responsible for building relations between parents and the school in order to better integrate the students. France: Psychophysiology Aid Priority Education is a programme that aims to improve the performance of students in school who are in difficult situations. The programme offers help not only from teachers, but also from doctors and psychologists. This French initiative bears resemblance to the Russian approach. According to the researchers, Russian teaching practice tends to "detect psychophysiological and psychological (motivational and cognitive) qualities among underachieving school students." Teachers in French schools covered by the programme communicate with parents regularly and undertake projects together with the students. They work personally with struggling students in small groups (this is of vital importance for the most troubled schools in the Priority Education Plus programme). Germany: Socialization in Clubs A correlation has been established between extracurricular activities and school performance. Teenagers who take part in clubs and other activities after classes feel more confident and study better. For students who come from families experiencing economic hardship and for migrant children, this is also a way to help with social engagement. Germany's federal educational authority has allocated over 30 million annually since 2013 to supporting extracurricular activities in families that come from disadvantaged backgrounds. The "educational package" proposed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs also supports students from poor and undereducated families who are given an opportunity to attend clubs and excursions. Since 2004, Germany has actively developed "full day" schools that offer kids after-school activities in an open format where they can do their homework or play. Six Ideas for Russia Based on international experience, the researchers suggest the following: Supporting students and schools of different levels is essential. Financial support should be made a priority, including special-purpose subsidies, bonuses and grants in exchange for schools' obligation to equalize students' performance. Schools should be able to administer funds independently. Focus should be made, for example, on continuing education for teachers. A rich educational environment is important: school days should be filled with additional classes on school subjects and extracurricular activities. Pro-family action is needed and can include granting personal certificates that socially vulnerable students can use to receive additional education. It makes sense to develop "resilient school" practices, i.e., those aimed at exceeding expectations and that help students from challenging family backgrounds achieve high results. Such schools intensify the educational environment and have the ability to work with mixed-ability classes. Strong students are given optional classes, preparation for competitions, and subject-specific classes, while weaker students are provided supplementary courses. The teaching staff have high expectations of their students, which serves as additional motivation. Additionally, children are involved in the school's non-academic life, which also promotes performance. Independence and leadership are essential in school administration. Children study better at schools where headmasters are focused on teaching methods and solving internal challenges rather than following external regulations. Personalized educational trajectories that consider students' demands and interests are helpful. More information: Sergey Kosaretsky et al. Studies of the psychological well-being of low-performing students in US schools, Journal of Modern Foreign Psychology (2019). Sergey Kosaretsky et al. Studies of the psychological well-being of low-performing students in US schools,(2019). DOI: 10.17759/jmfp.2019080104 Provided by National Research University Higher School of Economics Greenhouse gas emissions from pharmaceutical companies need to be better monitored and regulated. Credit: Shutterstock Rarely does mention of the pharmaceutical industry conjure up images of smoke stacks, pollution and environmental damage. Yet our recent study found the global pharmaceutical industry is not only a significant contributor to global warming, but it is also dirtier than the global automotive production sector. It was a surprise to find how little attention researchers have paid to the industry's greenhouse gas emissions. Only two other studies had some relevance: one looked at the environmental impact of the U.S. health-care system and the other at the pollution (mostly water) discharged by drug manufacturers. Our study was the first to assess the carbon footprint of the pharma sector. More polluting More than 200 companies represent the global pharmaceutical market, yet only 25 consistently reported their direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions in the past five years. Of those, only 15 reported their emissions since 2012. One immediate and striking result is that the pharmaceutical sector is far from green. We assessed the sector's emissions for each one million dollars of revenue in 2015. Larger businesses will always generate more emissions than smaller ones; in order to do a fair comparison, we evaluated emissions intensity. We found it was 48.55 tonnes of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) per million dollars. That's about 55 percent greater than the automotive sector at 31.4 tonnes of CO2e/$M for that same year. We restricted our analysis to the direct emissions generated by the companies' operations and to the indirect emissions generated by the electricity purchased by these companies from their respective utilities companies. The total global emissions of the pharma sector amounts to about 52 megatonnes of CO2e in 2015, more than the 46.4 megatonnes of CO2e generated by the automotive sector in the same year. The value of the pharma market, however, is smaller than the automotive market. By our calculations, the pharma market is 28 percent smaller yet 13 percent more polluting than the automotive sector. Energy use, including heating, ventilation and air conditioning, in the manufacturing facilities of pharmaceutical companies produces large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. Credit: Shutterstock Extreme variability We also found emissions intensity varied greatly within the pharmaceutical sector. For example, the emissions intensity of Eli Lilly (77.3 tonnes of CO2e/$M) was 5.5 times greater than Roche (14 tonnes CO2e/$M) in 2015, and Procter & Gamble's CO 2 emissions were five times greater than Johnson & Johnson even though the two companies generated the same level of revenues and sell similar lines of products. We found outliers too. The German company Bayer AG reported emissions of 9.7 megatonnes of CO2e and revenues of US$51.4 billion, yielding an emission intensity of 189 tonnes CO2e/$M. This intensity level is more than four times greater than the overall pharmaceutical sector. In trying to explain this incredibly large deviation, we found that Bayer's revenues derive from pharmaceutical products, medical equipment and agricultural commodities. While Bayer reports its financial revenues separately for each division, it lumps together the emissions from all the divisions. The company also reports and tracks its emission intensity in terms of tonnes of CO2e produced for each tonne of manufactured goods, whether fertilizer or Aspirin, for example. This level of opacity makes it not only impossible to assess the true environmental performance of these kind of companies. It also raises questions about the sincerity of these companies' strategies and actions in reducing their contribution to climate change. Climate compliance We also estimated how much the pharmaceutical sector would have to reduce its emissions to comply with the reduction targets in the Paris Agreement. We found that by 2025, the overall pharma sector would need to reduce its emissions intensity by about 59 percent from 2015 levels. While this is clearly a far cry from their current levels, it is interesting to note that some of the 15 largest companies are already operating at that level, namely Amgen Inc., Johnson & Johnson and Roche Holding AG. If those performance levels are achievable by some, why can't they be achieved by all? These three leading companies are also the ones with the highest level of profitability and revenue growth in the whole sector. Indeed Roche, Johnson & Johnson and Amgen showed revenue increases of 27.2 percent, 25.7 percent and 7.8 percent respectively between 2012 and 2015, while managing to reduce their emissions by 18.7 percent, 8.3 percent and eight percent respectively. This supports the premise that environmental and financial performance aren't mutually exclusive. The pharmaceutical industry is responsible for some serious environmental impacts beyond greenhouse gas emissions. For example, the waste water from drug manufacturers in Patancheru, India has left river sediment, ground water and drinking water polluted. Researchers estimated that in a single day, 44 kilograms of ciprofloxacin, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, was releasedenough to treat everyone in a city of 44,000 inhabitants. Clearly, there is a dire need for more extensive and sustained research as well as more scrutiny of the pharmaceutical industry's environmental practices and performance. Healing people is no justification for killing the planet. Explore further Canada oil sands CO2 emissions hugely underestimated: study This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. In this photo taken May 8, 2019, Tammy Kilgore as part of her duties with the local volunteer fire department, checks high water covering a road leading to the small community of Mosby, Mo. "The floods, I'm tired of dealing with them, I really am," she said. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) The residents of this small riverside town have become accustomed to watching floods swamp their streets, transform their homes into islands and ruin their floors and furniture. Elmer Sullivan has replaced his couch, bed and television. He's torn up water-buckled floorboards. And he put a picket fence against the front of his house to cover up a gap left when waters washed out part of the stone foundation. "I just don't want to mess with it anymore. I'm 83 years old and I'm tired of it, and I just want to get out of it," Sullivan said. Finally fed up, Sullivan and nearly half of the homeowners in Mosby signed up in 2016 for a program in which the government would buy and then demolish their properties rather than paying to rebuild them over and over. They're still waiting for offers, joining thousands of others across the country in a slow-moving line to escape from flood-prone homes. Patience is wearing thin in Mosby, a town of fewer than 200 people with a core of lifelong residents and some younger newcomers drawn by the cheap prices of its modest wood-frame homes. Residents watched nervously this past week as high waters again threatened the town. "It really is frustrating, because here we are, we're coming through a wet season. There's a chance that we could possibly flood, and we're still waiting," said Jason Stooksbury, an alderman who oversees the town's efforts to curb flooding. "It's not a good situation, but what are you going to doit's the government process." In this photo taken May 8, 2019, Elmer Sullivan checks out high water in the Fishing River in the small community of Mosby, Mo. Sullivan and nearly half of the homeowners in Mosby signed up in 2016 for a program in which the government would buy and then demolish their properties rather than paying to rebuild them over and over. They're still waiting for offers, joining thousands of others across the country in a slow-moving line to escape from flood-prone homes. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) Over the past three decades, federal and local governments have poured more than $5 billion into buying tens of thousands of vulnerable properties across the country, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The AP analysis shows those buyouts have been getting more expensive, with many of the costliest coming in the last decade after strong storms pounded heavily populated coastal states such as Texas, New York and New Jersey. This year's record flooding in the Midwest could add even more buyouts to the queue. The purchases are happening as the climate changes. Along rivers and sea coasts, some homes that were once considered at little risk are now endangered due to water that is climbing higher and surging farther inland than historic patterns predicted. Regardless of the risks, the buyouts are voluntary. Homeowners can renew taxpayer-subsidized flood insurance policies indefinitely. With more extreme weather events, flooding "is going to become more and more of an issue, and there will be more and more properties that are at risk of total loss or near total loss," said Democratic U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio of Oregon, chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, which has jurisdiction over FEMA. "Then the question is: Are we just going to keep selling them insurance and building in the same place?" In this photo taken April 24, 2019, Elmer Sullivan talks about the times his house has flooded out in the small community of Mosby, Mo. Sullivan and nearly half of the homeowners in Mosby signed up in 2016 for a program in which the government would buy and then demolish their properties rather than paying to rebuild them over and over. They're still waiting for offers, joining thousands of others across the country in a slow-moving line to escape from flood-prone homes. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) DeFazio wants to expand and revamp a buyout process that he describes as inefficient and irrational. He's backing a proposed pilot project that would give homeowners a break on their flood insurance premiums, as long as they agree in advance to a buyout that would turn their property into green space if their homes are substantially damaged by a flood. Buyout programs rely on federal money distributed through the states, but they generally are carried out by cities and counties that end up owning the properties. Most buyouts are initiated after disasters, but Congress has become more proactive. Appropriations for FEMA's Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Programwhich funds buyouts and other precautions, such as elevating homes before disasters strikehave risen from $25 million in 2015 to $250 million this year. A recent study for the National Institute of Building Sciences found that society as a whole saves $7 in avoided costs for every $1 spent through federally funded grants to acquire or demolish flood-prone buildings. Yet it's harder to gauge the benefits for the individuals who move. After Superstorm Sandy pummeled New Jersey and New York in 2012, Duke University graduate school student Devon McGhee researched what happened to hundreds of Staten Island homeowners who took buyouts. She found that all but two of the 323 homeowners she tracked relocated to areas with higher poverty levels. Three-quarters remained on Staten Island, and about one-fifth moved to homes that still were exposed to coastal flooding hazards. In this photo taken May 8, 2019, a school bus carries students past a water-filled ditch in the small community of Mosby, Mo. Federal and local governments have poured more than $5 billion into buying tens of thousands of private properties over the past few decades to try to diminish the long-term costs of repeated floods. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) "When people take the buyouts, sometimes the money they are given on their home is not enough to buy a comparable home in a lower-risk area," said McGhee, who now works as a coastal management specialist for an engineering and consulting firm. The prolonged buyout process also can take an emotional toll on people who are uprooted. "Maybe they find a home, and it's a good home, but it's not their home where their kids grew up and had birthday parties and that sort of thing. There are these losses that occur in that transition process that can have implications for years," said Sherri Brokopp Binder, an Allentown, Pennsylvania-based consultant who researches disaster buyouts. Multiple layers of government bureaucracy can slow the buyout process. So can the typical hiccups that come with property sales. In Kingfisher, Oklahoma, officials are still working to complete a buyout prompted by Tropical Storm Erin in 2007, even as the city has found itself inundated by flood waters again this week. In this photo taken May 8, 2019, Jason Stooksbury checks out high water in the Fishing River from a condemned bridge in the small community of Mosby, Mo. Many residents signed up in 2016 for a program in which the government would buy and then demolish their properties rather than paying to rebuild them over and over, but they're still waiting for offers. "It really is frustrating, because here we are, we're coming through a wet season. There's a chance that we could possibly flood, and we're still waiting," said Stooksbury said. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) In this photo taken May 21, 2019, Robert Collins, left, and Bobby Joe Branston watch rising waters in the Fishing River from a condemned bridge in the small community of Mosby, Mo. Federal and local governments have poured more than $5 billion into buying tens of thousands of private properties over the past few decades to try to diminish the long-term costs of repeated floods. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) In this photo taken April 24, 2019, Tammy Kilgore with her grandson Tucker Kazzell, 8 months, talks about the times her house has flooded in the small community of Mosby, Mo. "The floods, I'm tired of dealing with them, I really am," she said. "I think they should have bought out this town a long time ago." (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) In this photo taken April 24, 2019, Gavin Podhorn looks for crawdads in the Fishing River, which periodically floods the small community of Mosby, Mo. Federal and local governments have poured more than $5 billion into buying tens of thousands of private properties over the past few decades to try to diminish the long-term costs of repeated floods. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) In this photo taken May 21, 2019, Elmer Sullivan shelters from the rain in his pickup truck as he watches rising waters in Fishing River in the small community of Mosby, Mo. Sullivan and nearly half of the homeowners in Mosby signed up in 2016 for a program in which the government would buy and then demolish their properties rather than paying to rebuild them over and over. They're still waiting for offers, joining thousands of others across the country in a slow-moving line to escape from flood-prone homes. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) In this Sept. 19, 2017, file photo, Linda Satsky wipes tears away from her eyes as she talks about getting rejected from FEMA for assistance in Liberty, Texas. Officials in Liberty County, northeast of Houston, held a kickoff meeting April 26, 2019, with residents to discuss a $6.7 million HUD grant to buy out homes near the Trinity River. (Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle via AP, File) In this photo taken April 24, 2019, a sign welcomes visitors to the small community of Mosby, Mo. The residents of this small riverside town have become accustomed to watching floods swamp their streets, transform their homes into islands and ruin their floors and furniture. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) In this July 26, 2012, file photo, residents of Hamburg, Iowa, in a show of support, walk on the levee the town built the previous year to protect it from the Missouri River flood. Formal discussions of a federally funded buyout likely are a long way off in Hamburg, Iowa, which was inundated in March 2019, by a breach of a Missouri River levee. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik, File) In this March 17, 2019, file photo, floodwaters surround buildings on the southwest side of Hamburg, Iowa. Formal discussions of a federally funded buyout likely are a long way off in Hamburg, Iowa, which was inundated in March by a breach of a Missouri River levee. (Ryan Soderlin/Omaha World-Herald via AP, File) The city initiated a buyout in 2010, then received additional money to buy more homes about five years later. It's purchased more than 80 so far, with about 10 more to go, said Annie Vest, a former Oklahoma state hazard mitigation officer who now works for an engineering firm administering Kingfisher's grant. The process is just getting started in some Texas communities swamped by Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Officials in Liberty County, northeast of Houston, held a meeting with residents last month to discuss a $6.7 million HUD grant to buy out homes near the Trinity River. The county still must get appraisals of the homes, conduct asbestos inspections and take bids for a demolition contractor. Local officials hope to start taking buyout applications by the end of the year, said David Douglas, the Liberty County engineering administrator and flood plain manager. Formal discussions of a federally funded buyout likely are a long way off in Hamburg, Iowa, which was inundated in March by a breach of a Missouri River levee. But local officials aren't waiting around. Mayor Cathy Crain said they are looking into the potential for a private developer to relocate some houses and to acquire higher land where new homes and businesses could be built. In this photo taken April 24, 2019, Elmer Sullivan shows the height of floodwater on one of the many times his house has flooded in the small community of Mosby, Mo. Sullivan and nearly half of the homeowners in Mosby signed up in 2016 for a program in which the government would buy and then demolish their properties rather than paying to rebuild them over and over. They're still waiting for offers, joining thousands of others across the country in a slow-moving line to escape from flood-prone homes. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) Relocating to higher ground isn't likely in Mosby, unless residents are willing to go elsewhere. The entire core of the town is in a floodway, which means that new development is limited. Located just northeast of Kansas City, Mosby began as a railroad town in 1887 and expanded with coal mines in the early 20th century. At one time, it had a school, bank, grocery store and lumber yard. Those are gone now, and the trains merely pass by. In 2015, financial strains led the town to eliminate its small police force. Mosby experienced some of its worst flooding that same year, with three floods in less than six weeks. The next year, city officials began pursuing the buyouts, and more than 40 homeowners signed up. They've been in limbo ever since. Local officials sought nearly $3 million in funding, submitted a revised application, obtained property appraisals and conducted environmental reviews. Some residents have been scouting for new housing. Others are waiting to see the bids, which are expected this summer. Sullivan hopes to get $28,000 for his home. He would move near his sister in southeastern Missouri, but he's getting impatient. In this May 17, 2015, file photo, Mosby Mayor Harlin Clements stands in flood water in Mosby, Mo. The residents of this small riverside town have become accustomed to the seemingly countless floods that have swamped their streets, transformed their homes into islands and ruined their floors and furniture. (Allison Long/The Kansas City Star via AP) "I'm just about ready to tell them, 'Take it and shove it,'" he said. Sitting on the concrete porch of the white wooden house where she's lived for the past 36 years, Tammy Kilgore explains that "everybody's just really on edge and ready to leave." "The floods, I'm tired of dealing with them, I really am," she said. "I think they should have bought out this town a long time ago." Explore further Historic flooding predicted along Arkansas River 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. Kwajelyn Jackson, executive director at Feminist Womens Health Center in Atlanta, at the Georgia state capitol on May 21. Photo: Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images On May 7, Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia signed into law one of the most restrictive abortion bills in the country. If allowed to take effect, it will outlaw abortion once an ultrasound can detect electrical activity where a heart develops in an embryo; its known as a fetal heartbeat despite the technical absence, in many cases, of either a fetus or a heart. Not to be outdone, Governor Kay Ivey of Alabama signed an even more draconian bill on May 15. House Bill 314 more directly flouts the Supreme Courts 1973 Roe v. Wade decision by reclassifying all abortions in Alabama as Class A felonies. Both bills accompany a slate of related legislation across the South and Midwest that seeks to force SCOTUS to reconsider and possibly overturn Roe. And both are Republican projects in states that boast dismal health outcomes for mothers and newborns: Alabama has the sixth-highest infant-mortality rate in the United States, while Georgia has the second-highest maternal-mortality rate. Taken together, these laws have prompted widespread calls for boycotts. Hollywood has been especially vocal, with the likes of Ben Stiller, Kerry Washington, and Alec Baldwin signing on. At least two productions have already scrapped plans to film in Georgia: Amazon Studios The Power and the Kristen Wiig comedy Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Each year, the film and television industries account for several billion dollars in economic activity in the state, which, owing to its generous tax credits, hosts the highest number of film productions in the country. In theory, such a boycott would be devastating. In practice, Governor Kemp has been gleefully derisive, dismissing would-be protesters as C-list celebrities and insisting that Georgia will not back down from standing up for precious life. (Georgia had Americas 11th-highest execution rate per capita from 1976 to 2015.) Hollywoods impulse to cut ties with southern states over politics is not anomalous. Since the laws passage, social media has been awash in calls not just to boycott Georgia and Alabama but to encourage them to leave the Union altogether. Liberal punditry has toyed over the years with the notion that the South is incompatible with blue America and the two would be better off parting ways. Commentary on websites as varied as the Daily Beast, the Root, and Slate has argued that southern secession is a viable, even desirable solution to such rifts. One writer, Chuck Thompson, wrote an entire book endorsing the idea. The implications of this outlook have become more evident to me since I moved to Atlanta two years ago with my wife, who is a native, after spending most of my life in Los Angeles and New York City. In my experience on the coasts, the Deep South is often dismissed as a region populated by bigots and Republican theocrats, a myopic view that these new laws have done little to contradict. These negative perceptions often hinge on a flawed understanding of the region as a network of backward white voters reaping what they have sown, rather than as the cradle of black American culture, politics, and resistance that I have experienced it to be. This misunderstanding results in a vicious irony: Black, brown, poor, and progressive residents of such states are hamstrung simultaneously by cruel GOP governance and the disdain of their supposed allies in other states, whose condemnation takes the form of divestment rather than investment geared toward change. In the case of the anti-abortion bills, even the perception that they have majority support is false. Forty-nine percent of Georgians oppose the latest bill, compared with 44 percent in favor, according to polling by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The same poll found that seven out of ten people oppose overturning Roe v. Wade. Similarly, in Alabama, a Public Religion Research Institute poll found that just 26 percent of residents support abortion bans with no caveats. (The bill Governor Ivey signed contains no exceptions for rape or incest.) It remains that a majority of Georgia and Alabama voters are white Republicans who backed politicians whose desire to pass such laws was known. At the same time, Georgia and Alabama are two of the blackest states in the country, at 32 and 27 percent of the population, respectively. As of the 2010 Census, 55 percent of all black Americans lived in the South. Paired with the fact that nearly 75 percent of Democratic voters in Georgia are black, the portrait that emerges is one of a racially polarized electorate and political structure composed of not just a conservative majority but also a significant black and progressive minority. These demographics alone are a recipe for right-wing governance. But they are also a recipe for a fight. Where black resistance has taken hold in the South, it has consistently proved to be the most viable bulwark against reactionary rule. Last year, former Georgia House minority leader Stacey Abrams inspired the states closest gubernatorial election in 52 years by rallying nonwhite and low-frequency voters. Rather than pursue national office in defeat, Abrams has thus far stayed local and continued her voting-rights work registering new voters and combating the suppression measures that helped her opponent, Kemp, ensure victory. Atlanta and its suburbs account for a massive share of the states population, and they vote more Democratic with each election. Birmingham, Alabama, and Jackson, Mississippi, have black mayors whose progressive bona fides rival those of any California or New York politician. To be sure, some black leaders have proved as uninterested in combating inequality as their white Republican counterparts. Still, with few exceptions, the black Democrats who occupy a large share of the partys seats in the Georgia and Alabama statehouses voted against both Republican abortion bans. In Alabama, black state senators lambasted the Republican agenda on the capitol floor and, even when defeat was certain, sought to include exceptions that would have protected rape and incest survivors. In Georgia, 78 percent of black voters believe abortion should be legal in most or all cases. So it is remarkable to me when I see progressives dismiss the region as irredeemably red on electoral maps, or see social-media posts insisting in protest that nobody spend money when they drive through. The civil-rights movement thrived on boycotts. But they were sustained by locals targeting businesses that practiced segregation, not by state sanctions. Abrams called for Hollywood to stay and fight alongside progressive Georgians to upend these laws and oust the politicians responsible. NARAL Pro-Choice Georgia has echoed her stance. Georgia representative Renitta Shannon added in Vice that such a boycott would harm workers. Any loss in revenue will come from our state budget, which more than 50 percent of goes to schools, Shannon said. (The film industry there employs about 92,000 people.) None of which is to say that boycotts are futile although the odds of getting Republicans to reverse their stance on abortion seem slim, to say the least, even when compared with the success of recent boycotts against North Carolinas transgender bathroom laws. It is to say that the impulse to abandon the Deep South to the devices of its white leaders is a dubious strategy for change. Some people have responded in kind to Abramss call to stay and fight: Jordan Peele and J. J. Abrams have said they will donate their fees from their upcoming Georgia-filmed HBO series, Lovecraft Country, to the local ACLU and Fair Fight Georgia to challenge the new abortion laws. I do not know whether such efforts will prompt sustained change. I do believe they beat cutting ties and washing hands. They demonstrate investment and the truly invested must not abandon the Deep South if they want its political order to fall. Resistance need not be fomented hundreds of miles away. The fight is here, alongside the black people of Georgia and Alabama and their allies. And it always has been. *This article appears in the May 27, 2019, issue of New York Magazine. Subscribe Now! Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Terms & Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. Credit: shutterstock If scientists know how particular species are responding to the realities of global climate change, they can help to recommend better conservation strategies. But information about climate change response and adaptation is either limited or not available for many tropical bird species. This is a glaring oversight: particularly for range restricted tropical birdsthat is, species with narrow ranges that occur only in a particular place or habitat. Scientists have shown that range restricted tropical birds are extremely vulnerable to global climate change, owing to their specialized habitat requirements. These species include a number of West African birds which occupy the region's tropical forests. Like most regions on the continent, future climate change projections for West Africa suggest there's a high chance of temperature increases. But they're more equivocal with rainfall: dierent projections indicate signicant increases or decreases in future rainfall, with little consensus among models. My colleagues and I wanted to address the gap in knowledge about what's needed to protect West African species from the effects of changes in climate. We looked at three range restricted endemic West African bird species: the Timneh Parrot (Pscittacus erithracus timneh), Ballman's Malimbe (Malimbus ballmanni), and White-necked Rockfowl (Picathartes gymnocephalus). These birds are only found in West Africa and have restricted habitat requirements, making them highly susceptible to climate change. Using a variety of open access occurrence data available for our three target species, and 27 global climate models, we created ecological niche models for each species to assess how climate change will affect the current and potential future geographic distributions of these already restricted range birds. Based on our modeling we showed that the impact of climate change on two bird speciesthe Ballman's Malimbe and White-necked Rockfowlwould be minimal. The data suggest these species' ranges will remain stable and closely similar to their present-day distributions. But the story is quite different for the Timneh Parrot. Our models suggest that it faces a marked loss of range due to climate change. The model shows that by 2050 the species will be entirely limited to Liberia: its current range extends beyond Liberia into neighboring Sierra Leone, Guinea and Cote d"Ivoire. Under pressure Our three focus species were selected for several reasons. These were the fact that they are globally threatenedlisted as either endangered or vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature; the fact that they occupy restricted ranges and the fact that they are likely to be highly susceptible to habitat loss and climate change. Our findings that the effects of climate change on the present distributions of West African birds will be minimal in some casesbut devastating for the Timneh Parrotare extremely worrying. We found marked climate change-driven potential range loss across the Timneh Parrot current range in West Africa. And, worse, our models suggest that no areas will become newly suitable for its habitation. By 2050, our models suggest that the parrot will be almost entirely restricted to Liberia, representing a loss of about 75% of its range. The Timneh Parrot already faces a number of threats, most related to human activity. Habitat loss is one big problem; the birds are also trapped and sold into the illegal international pet trade. There are only between 100 000 and 500 000 of these birds alive today in the wild, and their numbers are falling. Any more pressure could push this species to the brink of extinction. What needs to be done One of the things we attempted to predict through our models was how easily each species would be able to move to and colonize new, uninhabited areas that are suitable for their needs. For this to happen, there must be suitable corridors along which the birds can travel. This is even true for the Timneh Parrot, which can disperse a little under suitable conditions. This means that conservation efforts in the region should not only focus on protecting individual habitat fragments suitable to these species. These efforts should also prioritize creating corridors for connectivity between suitable habitats. We recommend that regional and national species conservation action plans in West Africa should incorporate climate change adaptation strategies for individual species. This will optimize conservation of these species, now and in the future, and of bird diversity in general. Explore further Birds outside their comfort zone are more vulnerable to deforestation This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Yet-Ming Chiang, Kyocera Professor, Department of Materials Science and Engineering. Credit: Tim Pumphrey Researchers at MIT have collaborated with a team of scientists from the University of British Columbia, the University of Maryland, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and Google to conduct a multiyear investigation into cold fusion, a type of benign nuclear reaction hypothesized to occur in benchtop apparatus at room temperature. In 1989, benchtop experiments were reported that raised hopes that cold fusion had been achieved. If true, this form of fusion could potentially be a source of limitless, carbon-free energy. However, researchers were unable to reproduce the results, and serious questions arose about the validity of the work. The topic laid largely dormant for 30 years. (In contrast, research in "hot" fusion has persisted, including the SPARC collaboration, which aims to commercialize fusion technology.) Yet-Ming Chiang, the Kyocera Professor in MIT's Department of Materials Science and Engineering, is part of the Google-sponsored team now revisiting the possibility of cold fusion through scientifically rigorous, peer-reviewed research. A progress report published today in Nature publicly describes the group's collaboration for the first time. The group, which included about 30 graduate students, postdocs, and staff scientists from across the collaborating institutions, has not yet found any evidence of the phenomenon, but they did find important new insights into metal-hydrogen interactions that could affect low-energy nuclear reactions. The team remains excited about investigating this area and hopes their ongoing journey will inspire others in the scientific community to contribute data to this intriguing field. Q: How did you get involved with a project that many would not consider? A: Matt Trevithick SB '92, SM '94, senior program manager at Google Research, approached me in spring of 2015 and he did so pretty gingerly, kind of poking around the edges at first, and then he popped the question, "What do you think of cold fusion?" And my answer to him was that I didn't have an opinion one way or the other on the scientific merits, because in 1989, when the cold fusion story broke, I was working all-out on high-temperature superconductivity, which had broken in 1986-87. We were furiously doing research in my lab on that topic, and also had started a company with MIT collaborators. So the cold fusion story came and went, and I was peripherally aware of it. Then Matt asked if this was something I might be interested in. Google recruited the collaborators on this team not by telling us what they wanted done, but by asking us what we would find interesting to do. We wrote proposals that were internally reviewed. What was interesting to me is the idea that electrochemistry, and especially solid-state electrochemistry, is a very powerful driving force that can create unusual states of matter. We've applied that idea to high energy batteries and electrochemical actuators previously, and this was another field in which electrochemical manipulation of matter could be interesting. This project was carried out in stealth. We didn't want the fact that Google was funding research in this area to become a distraction. For the first couple of years, we didn't even tell other members of our group the real reason behind the hydrogen storage experiments going on in the lab! Ariel Jackson, a postdoc, had a major role in developing the original proposal. Later on, Daniel Rettenwander and Jesse Benck joined as postdocs, and David Young SB '12, SM '18 joined as a graduate student. Together, we pursued the idea of using different types of electrolytes, liquid, polymer, and ceramic, as the medium by which to electrochemically pump hydrogen into palladium metal in order to achieve as highly loaded a state as possible. We also developed techniques to measure loading dynamically more precisely and more accurately than had been done before. To date we've been able to reach a H:Pd ratio of 0.96, where the theoretical maximum is 1, measured to an uncertainty of + or0.02. These results have just been published in Chemistry of Materials, and one measure of the care we went to in this work is the fact that the supplemental information section of the paper is 50 pages long. Q: What have you learned, and why did the group choose to publish now? A: The Nature publication makes clear that to date we have not discovered compelling evidence for cold fusion. Our objective was to be scrupulously objective, and I think we have managed to avoid any form of "confirmation bias." However, we've also learned that the high deuterium concentrations hypothesized to be necessary for cold fusion to occur are much more difficult to attain than we would have expected. And, there have been a number of other discoveries that have come about as a result of the group's work that are applicable in other scientific areas. Google's intent from the beginning was to fund a multi-institutional collaborative effort that would work quietly but intensively, then publish its findings in peer-reviewed journals. Now is the right time to disclose that this project exists, to tell people what we have found and not found. We are not finishedin many ways this is just the beginningand we want others to join the effort to look into the materials science, electrochemistry, and physics surrounding this topic. Q: What's next at MIT? A: The project at MIT goes on, and we are looking to add to the team. What we've learned over the past three years has suggested new ways to use electrochemistry and materials science to create highly loaded metal hydrides: palladium for sure, but also other metals. We believe that we have found certain knobs that could allow us to create phase states that have not been accessible before. If we can controllably produce these, they will be very interesting target materials for other experiments within the broader program looking at, for example, neutron yields from deuterium-deuterium fusion in a plasma discharge device at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. Explore further Scientists revisit the cold case of cold fusion More information: Curtis P. Berlinguette et al. Revisiting the cold case of cold fusion, Nature (2019). Curtis P. Berlinguette et al. Revisiting the cold case of cold fusion, Nature (2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1256-6 Curtis P. Berlinguette et al. Revisiting the cold case of cold fusion, Nature (2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1256-6 Jesse D Benck, et al. Producing High Concentrations of Hydrogen in Palladium via Electrochemical Insertion from Aqueous and Solid Electrolytes, Chemistry of Materials, 2019. doi.org/10.1021/acs.chemmater.9b01243 Journal information: Nature , Chemistry of Materials This story is republished courtesy of MIT News (web.mit.edu/newsoffice/), a popular site that covers news about MIT research, innovation and teaching. Gaia DR2 density diagram of amplitude vs period for solar-like stars with mass approximately 0.7 solar mass. The color scale (rainbow) indicates the datapoint density. Three clusterings are immediately identifiable. Credit: University of Catania Since the second Gaia data release on the 25th April 2018, astrophysicists have had at their disposal an unprecedented wealth of information not only on distances and motions of stars in the galaxy, but also on many other stellar parameters that came along by exploiting the instrumentation aboard the satellite and the unique characteristics of the mission. Multiple observations of the same star, required to derive its distance and motion, also produced parameters related to stellar variability. Data for stars with spots on the surface similar to those on our Sun, in particular, provide information on their rotation period and on their surface magnetic fields. Stellar spots generated by magnetic fields at the surface modulate the stellar brightness as it rotates, making it possible to derive the star's rotation period and to provide an indication of its magnetic activity. The large number of stars observed made it possible to produce, with just the first 22 months of Gaia observations, the largest dataset on rotation to date, with rotation period and modulation amplitude of some 150,000 solar-like stars. When scientists inspected the new Gaia rotational modulation dataset of solar-like stars, they expected to find a general decrease of the modulation amplitude with increasing period, with perhaps a knee separating a faster rotation, "saturated" regime, in which magnetic activity is weakly dependent on rotation, from a slower rotation, "unsaturated" regime, in which magnetic activity is more strongly dependent on rotation. Indeed, the existence of such a trend is well established from ground-based observations, and it was recently confirmed by the observations of the Kepler satellite. To their surprise, however, the Gaia data instead revealed a different and completely unexpected picture. The richness of the data made it possible to unveil, for the first time, signatures of different surface inhomogeneity regimes in the amplitude-period density diagram. These regimes produce clustering of data in such a diagram that only the richness of the Gaia data can reveal. The saturated regime turned out to be itself composed of two branches, at high- and low-amplitude, separated by an evident gap at rotation period shorter than about two days. The low amplitude branch also resolved itself into two clumps, showing an over-density of data points at rotation period shorter than about half a day, which defines the ultra-fast rotators (UFRs), and another over-density at period larger than about 5 days, which, by comparison with Kepler data, is identified as the tip of the unsaturated regime. Such evidence unexpectedly and deeply challenges our view of the magneto-rotational evolution of young solar-like stars and suggests a novel scenario. Deeper investigation showed that the high amplitude branch is populated by young stars that have not yet ignited hydrogen in their cores. Stars in the low amplitude slow rotator group are identified as older unsaturated stars. Ultra-fast rotators and the faster stars on the high amplitude branch are expected to be stars that are on the cusp of igniting the hydrogen burning in their cores. Same as previous panel with the three groups annotated and the suggested new magneto-rotational evolutionary track indicated with arrows. Young solar-like stars having a thick accretion disk (T Tauri) are located on the high-amplitude branch. From there stars eventually transit to the unsaturated regime. However, if spin-up leads them almost to breakup velocity, they change their appearance very rapidly into a more axisymmetric surface spots configuration, which produces a much smaller rotational modulation amplitude, populating the ultra-fast rotator (UFR) group. From there the star evolves at a slower pace towards the low-amplitude slow-rotator clustering, corresponding to the unsaturated regime where wind-breaking dominates the stellar spin-down. Credit: University of Catania Besides producing spots, surface magnetic fields in solar-like stars are also responsible for stellar spindown at increasing age. Indeed, the magnetic fields generate and control the stellar wind, which removes angular momentum from the star. There is, however, a phase in the evolution of a solar-like stars in which it can spin-up. Young solar-like stars that have not yet ignited hydrogen in their cores contract, and therefore tend to spin-up. In the early stages of this contraction, the spin-up is prevented by the loss of angular momentum through the interaction with the accretion disk, where planets form. When planets begin forming and the gas in the disk dissipates, the star then becomes free to spin-up until the overall contraction phase is over. After that, the spin-up stops and the star begins to spin down. Placing stars of known age and evolutionary status in the Gaia amplitudeperiod density diagram permits, therefore, to delineate a new scenario for the magneto-rotational evolution of young solar-like stars. In the earlier phase of their evolution, when they are identified as T Tauri type with a thick accretion disk, stars are on the high-amplitude branch. When they start to dissipate their disks, they spin-up, although still remaining on the high amplitude branch until they ignite the hydrogen burning in their cores and stop contracting. Stars subsequently spin down due to the braking induced by magnetic fields, and move towards the low amplitude, slow rotators regime. The transition to the slow-rotator, unsaturated regime is somewhat discontinuous, as shown by the lower density in the amplitudeperiod density diagram. This lends observational support to the existence of a magnetic transition that has been recently proposed in the literature. The presence of the ultra-fast rotator over-density at low amplitude, clearly separated from the high amplitude branch, and the decrease in density of the high amplitude branch towards very short periods, suggest an alternative magneto-rotational evolution for which there was no evidence before Gaia. Stars on the high amplitude branch that spin up close to their breakup velocity (i.e. when the centrifugal force at the equator is comparable to the gravity force) undergo a very rapid magnetic transition towards a more axisymmetric field configuration, which causes a dramatic decrease in modulation amplitude and brings them into the ultra-fast rotator regime. The very sparse population connecting the ultra-fast rotator group to the low-amplitude slow-rotator group suggests that stars spin-down at a slower pace, and eventually merge into the low-amplitude slow-rotator branch. Therefore, all stars eventually converge to the low-amplitude slow-rotator branch, i.e. to the unsaturated regime, where the magnetized wind braking controls stellar spin-down. This latter phase of stellar spin-down is being actively investigated by the scientific community, as it may provide an efficient method to derive the age of the star during evolutionary phases when other stellar parameters vary very little. In this respect, the amplitude bimodality found in the Gaia data helps in identifying stars that are in the unsaturated regime, when this "gyro-chronology" can be applied. Explore further Other suns got the right spin More information: Alessandro C. Lanzafame et al. Evidence of New Magnetic Transitions in Late-Type Dwarfs from Gaia DR2. arXiv:1805.11332v2 [astro-ph.SR] Alessandro C. Lanzafame et al. Evidence of New Magnetic Transitions in Late-Type Dwarfs from Gaia DR2. arXiv:1805.11332v2 [astro-ph.SR] arxiv.org/abs/1805.11332 Provided by University of Catania Credit: M. de la Nougerede, UCL/MSSL This may look like a collection of colorful contact lenses, and in some respects there are some similarities: these are the filters through which the ExoMars rovernamed Rosalind Franklinwill view Mars in visible and near infrared wavelengths. They are pictured here in their individual transport cases, before they were installed in the filter wheels of the Panoramic Camera, PanCam, which comprises two wide-angle cameras and a high-resolution camera. The wide-angle cameras are mounted at each end of the PanCam unit and form a stereo pair. Each camera has a filter wheel with 11 positions. Red, green and blue broadband imaging filters for colour stereo imaging are common to both left and right cameras; the remaining eight are different between left and right to provide the range of filters needed for geological and solar imaging. The geology filters have been specifically selected to identify water-rich minerals and clays on Mars. PanCam also hosts a high-resolution color camera and, sitting on a mast 2 m above the Martian surface, will be fundamental in the day-to-day scientific operations of the rover, its images essential to assist with scientific decisions on where to drive to next, and where to target its drill. The rover will be the first with the capability to drill 2 m below the surface to retrieve samples for analysis in its onboard laboratory, seeking signs of life past or present. Combined with observations with its spectrometers, close-up imager, sub-surface sounding radar and neutron detector, the ExoMars rover has a powerful payload to explore the surface and subsurface of Mars. The filters of the wide-angle camera shown here were integrated into their filter wheels in 2018 and completed calibration testing on 11 May 2019. Just last week the entire PanCam instrument was shipped from University College London's Mullard Space Science Laboratory and delivered to Airbus, Stevenage, in the UK, where it will soon be built into the rover, giving Rosalind Franklin rover her science eyes. Explore further Opportunity's parting shot was a beautiful panorama More information: A.J. Coates et al. The PanCam Instrument for the ExoMars Rover, Astrobiology (2017). Journal information: Astrobiology A.J. Coates et al. The PanCam Instrument for the ExoMars Rover,(2017). DOI: 10.1089/ast.2016.1548 The circumstellar disk surrounding HD 163296 and the system of gaps and rings created by its young giant planets as recently imaged by ALMA (DSHARP Project). Credit: ALMA (ESO/NAOJ/NRAO), S. Dagnello In a study appearing today in the Astrophysical Journal, an INAF-lead team of researchers explored whether the anomalous features in the dust and gas distributions of HD 163296's disk revealed by ALMA's observations could arise from the interaction of the giant planets with planetesimals, a component of the disk previously unaccounted for. The circumstellar disks composed of gas and dust surrounding young forming stars are the environment in which planets are born. Their dust provides the building material from which planets begin their growth and, as a result of its incorporation into planetary bodies, its abundance is expected to decline over time. Since its first images of the bright concentric rings of the circumstellar disk around HL Tau, ALMA has been revolutionizing our view of circumstellar disks by revealing the widespread presence of a number of small-scale structures (gaps, rings and spiral arms) in their gas and dust, most of them believed to be linked to the presence of young planets and to arise from the interplay of their gravity with their surrounding environment. Among the best-studied disks observed by ALMA is that surrounding HD 163296, a 5 Myr-old star about twice the mass of the sun. HD 163296's disk is both massive (a bit less than one-tenth of the sun's mass) and wide (about 500 AU, twice the outer boundary of the Kuiper Belt in the solar system) and has been proposed to be home to at least three planets with masses comprised between twice that of Uranus and the one of Jupiter. ALMA's most recent observations allowed to spatially and compositionally characterize the structure of HD 163296's disk to a level previously undreamed of and showed how dust is still quite abundant (more than 300 times the mass of the Earth) in this disk notwithstanding its age and has produced at least three giant planets. The same observations also revealed some strange behaviors of the dust's spatial distribution that could not easily be explained only as the result of its interplay with the gas and the newly formed giant planets. Dust is expected to migrate inward from the outer regions of the disk due to its coupling and friction with the gas, but it's also expected to be stopped in its migration by massive planets. As a result of this inward flow, dust should disappear over time from the region immediately inside HD 163296's innermost planet. At the same time, dust coming from the outer regions of the disk should pile up outside the orbits of the second and third planets. ALMA's observations revealed instead that the regions inside the first planet and between the first and second planets have some of the highest concentrations of dust of the whole disk. In a study appearing today on the Astrophysical Journal, a team of researchers explored whether these anomalous features could arise from the interaction of the giant planets with a component of the disk previously unaccounted for: the planetesimals. "From the study of the solar system we know that mature circumstellar disks like HD 163296 are not composed only by gas and dust, but also contain an invisible population of small planetary objects similar to our asteroids and comets" explains Diego Turrini, lead author of the study and researcher at the Institute for Space Astrophysics and Planetary Science (IAPS) of the Italian National Institute of Astrophysics (INAF). "We also know that the appearance of giant planets affects these planetesimals by causing in their orbital evolution a brief but intense spike of dynamical excitation that, while short from the point of view of the long life of a planetary system, can have a duration comparable to the life of circumstellar disks," says Turrini. The disk of icy planetesimals hidden in HD 163296's circumstellar disk seen from above and the side. The young giant planets rapidly create a large population of exocomets acting as high-speed projectiles for the other bodies. Credit: D. Turrini (INAF-IAPS) The team wondered whether these interactions between the HD 163296's young giant planets and the invisible planetesimals could produce the observed anomalies in the dust distribution. The simulations they performed showed how, during the growth of the three giant planets, a larger and larger fraction of the surrounding population of planetesimals is injected on very eccentric and very inclined orbits similar to those of the comets in the solar system. "The main outcome of this dynamical excitation is a higher rate of violent collisions among the planetesimals," explains Francesco Marzari, professor at the University of Padova and co-author of the study. When they analyzed the outcome of the dynamical simulations though a collisional model, the team found that the collisions among planetesimals remain quite gentle until the giant planets approach their final masses, but then they rapidly grow a hundredfold in violence and start grinding down the planetesimals. "These violent collisions replenish the dust population in the disk," says Marzari "The new dust produced by this process, however, has a different orbital distribution than the original one and is mainly concentrated in two places: the orbital region within the first giant planet and the ring between the first and the second giant planets." The same two regions where ALMA's observations revealed the largest discrepancies with what was theoretically expected. The team found that the dynamical excitation caused by the appearance of the three giant planets should still be acting to date on the planetesimals embedded in HD 163296's disk. The authors also found that the resulting sustained collisional production of dust is capable of injecting tens of Earth masses of dust in those two orbital regions, explaining ALMA's observations also from a quantitative point of view. "Up to now studying this kind of process while occurring in circumstellar disks was possible only through simulations," says Turrini. "Thanks to ALMA we might now be able to study it as it happens and learn a lot on the interplay between planetary formation and the surrounding environment." "The fast rate at which ALMA is providing new and more detailed data on HD 163296 allowed us to expand our study beyond its original scope," explains Danai Polychroni, co-author of the study and at the time professor at the Universidad de Atacama and adjunct researcher at INAF-IAPS. "We noticed that many planetesimals are excited to supersonic velocities with respect to the surrounding gas of the disk and can create shocks waves that can heat both planetesimals and gas. While we could not yet model this process in detail, recent observations reported the unexpected presence of CO gas in regions characterized by temperatures where it should be frozen solid and of possible anomalies in the thermal structure of the disk. Both findings can, in principle, be explained thanks to the presence of these supersonic planetesimals and the shock waves they create." "This study was started as a pathfinder project to explore whether the dynamical excitation caused by newly formed giant planets could actually produce observable effects. As such, we just scratched the surface of this process and its implications," says Leonardo Testi, also co-author of the study and head of the ALMA Support Center of the European Southern Observatory and INAF researcher on leave. "Nevertheless, its physical recipe is quite simple: massive planets forming in a disk of planetesimals. Given the widespread signatures of possible young giant planets we are discovering with ALMA and the extended duration of the dynamical effects caused by their appearance, we might be looking to a process that is quite common among circumstellar disks." "The context of the work led by Diego Turrini is one of the pillars of the GENESIS synergy," explains Claudio Codella (INAF-Osservatorio Astrofisico di Arcetri), Principal Investigator of the GENESIS-SKA project, funded by INAF. "GENESIS-SKA (www.genesis.inaf.it) is a national project where more than 60 researchers of 8 INAF institutes works in close collaboration with the overall goal to investigate the conditions favorable to the rise of planetary systems similar to our solar system." "The results of the present project," adds Codella, "will be of extreme importance also for the study of the chemical compositions of the gas located in the regions where planets will form, and, possibly, of their atmospheres." Explore further ALMA observes the formation sites of solar-system-like planets More information: D. Turrini et al. Dust-to-gas Ratio Resurgence in Circumstellar Disks Due to the Formation of Giant Planets: The Case of HD 163296, The Astrophysical Journal (2019). Journal information: Astrophysical Journal D. Turrini et al. Dust-to-gas Ratio Resurgence in Circumstellar Disks Due to the Formation of Giant Planets: The Case of HD 163296,(2019). DOI: 10.3847/1538-4357/ab18f5 Provided by IAF Oil infrastructure in the Port of Houston serves as a reminder of the industry's importance to the local economy In the heart of Texas oil country, the city of Houston rode high on the oil boom, but then fell hard when the bottom dropped out of crude prices. But bit by bit America's fourth-largest city is weaning itself off its dependence on oil, betting instead on industries like healthcare and tech, even though black gold is never far from view in the birthplace of the American petroleum industry. In the southern part of town, the Texas Medical Center covers two square miles (more than five square kilometers), with glass towers stacked between multiple medical schools, a children's hospital and a trauma center. About 10 million patients a year seek specialist treatment at the center, where 110,000 people work, making it Houston's biggest employer. And TMC's rapid expansion has helped to make the health sector the biggest job creator in the state as well, employing more than 11 percent of workers in Texas, compared to only 8.6 percent in energy. Patrick Jankowski, vice president of the Greater Houston Partnership, told AFP the city had "no choice" but to bank on other industries. "To provide jobs for people here, we had to grow healthcare, life sciences, tech," he said, noting that just 30 years ago, eight in 10 jobs in the city depended on the hydrocarbon industry. A bird's-eye view of 'innovation district,' Houston's tech hub Blessing or curse The state has always had an embarrassment of oil riches. With 30 million Texans, the state is the second most populous after California and home to the largest oil reserves of the world's biggest petroleum producer. But this underground blessing has at times been a "curse." As many developing countries have experienced, the abundance of one commodity often discourages investment in other industries and linking their fate to a single industry. The last oil slump was in 2014, when prices for benchmark crude sunk from $107 to $44 in just six months, causing painful layoffs. The damage was widespread. "We had to shift. It was not lucrative to work in an industry where there were too many people looking for work," said AJ Mahmoud of the recruiting firm Michael Page. The annual CERAweek conference gathers thousands of energy industry professionals from around the world in Houston Just a few years ago, the energy sector accounted for 95 percent of the positions the company filled in Texas, compared to just five percent globally. The company now focuses on construction and real estate. At the same time, energy accounts for a shrinking share of the state economy, slipping to just 8.5 percent in the final quarter of last year from 13.4 percent in the second quarter of 2014. And while Silicon Valley is more than 1,500 miles away, greater Houston and its population of about seven million have made a striking foray into the tech sector. Going high tech Station Houston, a 25,000-square-foot (2,300-square-meter) startup hub that opened downtown three years ago, has become a symbol of this renewal. Founded three years ago, Station Houston is home to nearly 200 Texas startups Inside, the leaders of 180 budding enterprises gather and receive advice from mentors or talk to investors. The offices are draped in garish colors, feature open-plan workspaces and sit in the middle of the "innovation district," a neighborhood embodying local authorities' hopes for the new economy. "Our mission is to transform Houston into a world-leading technology and innovation capital," said Payal Patel, head of business development at Station Houston. This is far from a done deal, however. Houston, and the other two big cities in TexasAustin and Dallasare far behind major US metropolitan areas, such as San Francisco and New York, in attracting startup capital. And despite its shiny new electronics and modern image, Station Houston is still tied to the old ways: 40 percent of its startups linked to the energy business and oil titan Exxon Mobil supported the creation of the center. Nevertheless, "Houston has moved away from the oil curse," said Andy Lipow of Lipow Oil Associates. "We have diversified so much over the years. If oil hits $30 again, the Houston economy will be impacted but not as it could have been in the '80s and '90s." 2019 AFP Credit: CC0 Public Domain Studying the brain involves measuring the activity of billions of individual brain cells called neurons. Consequently, many brain measurement techniques produce data that is averaged to reflect the activity of large populations of these neurons. If all of the neurons are behaving differently, this will average out. But, when the behaviour of individual neurons is synchronized, it produces clearly visible oscillations. Synchronisation is important to understanding how neurons behave, which is particularly relevant with regard to brain diseases like Alzheimer's, epilepsy and Parkinson's. Now, a group of researchers from the Institute of Computational Physics and Complex Systems at Lanzhou University, China, has used a combination of two computer models to study the ways different kinds of neurons can impact synchronisation. The study is published in the European Physical Journal B. To study the effects on synchronisation, the authors examined neurons called inhibitory neuronswhich work to slow down or stop the activity of other neurons. Moreover, they explored the likelihood of these inhibitory neurons firing either spontaneously or not at all within the network. Using computer models, the researchers then constructed an Izhikevich neural network; they also employed a model of neuronal transmission, called the Tsodyks-Uziel-Markram (TUM) model. Their findings indicate that inhibitory neurons can have a two-fold impact on oscillatory patterns. On the one hand, they can delay the firing of the neurons, which prevents synchronisation from happening. On the other, they can facilitate the transition of the oscillatory patterns, which is conducive to synchronisation. The research is important for increasing our understanding of brain diseases, like stroke, Alzheimer's and epilepsy. "The ever-increasing morbidity of brain diseases makes the investigation on this topic significant in both psychology and medicine" the authors say. Explore further Development of a technology to produce dorsal cortical neurons More information: Peng-Xiang Lin et al, Two-fold effects of inhibitory neurons on the onset of synchronization in Izhikevich neuronal networks, The European Physical Journal B (2019). Journal information: European Physical Journal B Peng-Xiang Lin et al, Two-fold effects of inhibitory neurons on the onset of synchronization in Izhikevich neuronal networks,(2019). DOI: 10.1140/epjb/e2019-100009-2 Haze from wildfire smoke obscures the sun as U of A researcher Zac Robinson leads students on a hike in B.C.'s Monashee Mountains in August 2018. Robinson is one of the editors of a new report focusing on how wildfires are affecting Canada's alpine regions. Credit: Mary Sanseverino Zac Robinson remembers hiking through B.C.'s Monashee Mountains last August and, on a cloudless day, staring directly into the sun. What made his look upwards a possibility was the smoke collecting from more than 560 B.C. forest fires all burning in unison, making the air quality in Western Canada the most hazardous in the world. "It was dark and eerie, it was wild, and it shaped our conversations, which turned from the fire and the smoke to how fire is connected to larger processes at work that are pushing change in the alpine," said Robinson, a mountain historian at the University of Alberta, who was leading a dozen students through a skills course as part of the Alpine Club of Canada's summer-long general mountaineering camp. "We would wake up in the morning and brush ash off our tent that had accumulated in the night. Then we would talk about what this material that is just falling everywhere does to glaciers." Robinson explained while white snow reflects light, energy and heat really well, the dark elements of the ash do just the opposite. In essence, the forest fires and resulting ash become a "feedback loop for mass wastage of these glaciers." It was then that Robinson and former U of A mountain ecologist David Hik decided wildfires were going to be the main focus of the ACC's 2019 State of the Mountains Report. Tracking a new reality In its second year, the annual report is a collection of expert summaries written to raise awareness about the ways a changing climate is transforming the alpine. The pair, along with fellow editor Lael Parrott, reached out to Lori Daniels, a University of British Columbia conservation researcher, to write an essay on the vital role wildfire has on ecosystem function and how that understanding has exposed shortcomings of past fire suppression and timber production, and how "learning to coexist with wildfire is critical as our society adapts to climate change." "Events that a decade ago we would call '100-year events' are quickly becoming the norm," said Robinson. "Lori talks about ways we can coexist with fire because it is our new reality." Human side of ecological disaster The other main feature was a followup to last year's look at the infamous Slims River (A'ay Chu) Piracy Event in southwestern Yukon. The Slims River, a major source of water for Kluane Lake (Lhu'aan Man), effectively ran dry after the Kaskawulsh Glacier receded to the point that its meltwaters began flowing in a different direction. Since 2016, the 81-kilometer-long Kluane Lake has dropped more than three meters. Robinson said the story of that ecological disaster in the making landed in just about every major news outlet in the worldbut there was never a mention of the local people forced to live with the change. To remedy that, Robinson and his co-editors reached out to Tosh Southwick, a member of the Kluane First Nation, to highlight how the environment shapes local communities and what that looks like on the ground. "What Tosh wrote back to us was both poignant and deserving of discussion. She said, "It was quite a surreal experience when you read or hear about others talking about a particular place that you are so much a part of, without even mentioning any trace of your community, your people or your history."" Southwick wrote that the story of the Kluane First Nation is one about the importance and value of meaningful engagement with researchers and "how research in traditional territories needs to be driven in some large part by the people who live there." It also served as a lesson of how people who can no longer rely on things to be as they once were must rely on their "long and definitive history of resilience and adaptation," she said. "Knowing that mountains are sentinels for change, and that these things are happening and being exacerbated more than other places, what can we learn?" added Robinson. Expert perspectives Of the dozen alpine-related examinations, U of A researchers asked to provide perspectives on the state of the mountains included biological sciences professor Felix Sperling, who outlined the role of the mountain pine beetle and what should be the response to them; recreation researcher Elizabeth Halpenny, who wrote about the need to embrace sustainable tourism in mountain parks; and structural geologist John Waldron, who penned an article on the rise and fall of Newfoundland's Appalachian mountains. And while the report serves as an annual call to action, Robinson said the overall theme is that the distress signal is being heard. "Mountains are, and have always been, extraordinarily dynamic places, but the now-accelerated rates of change occurring in these places are being noticed, and they're increasingly becoming part of the public conversation." Explore further Mountains signalling disappearance of glacier-fed rivers Credit: CC0 Public Domain Sending manned missions to Mars is essential, according to Pierre Brisson, the president of Mars Society Switzerland, "because we can." We spoke with him about this challenge while he was at EPFL recently to give a talk. Pierre Brisson, a planetology enthusiast who heads the Swiss chapter of the Mars Society, believes in the need to send people to Mars. He recently gave a talk at EPFL on the technical challenges we still need to overcome to get to the red planetthe only one he believes we could ever reachand set up a colony. Why are you so interested in Mars? I've always been passionate about physical geography, planetology and things related to space in general. But what interests me about Mars is that it's the only planet where we could one day live. And it's much more interesting than the Moona natural satellite whose geological evolution ground to a near halt much earlier. Why do you think it's essential to send humans to Mars? Because it's technologically feasible. Maybe not right away, but it will happen one day. What we need to do is develop a massive rocket, like Elon Musk's Big Falcon. While I doubt people will be able to live permanently on Marsalthough that could be our goalwe could at least send manned missions there. And we'll need to do so because human-assisted robots work much better when humans are around. Sending information between Mars and Earth takes 322 minutes each way, meaning direct human control would be impossible unless people are on site. What's more, no matter how sophisticated our robots are, they can do only what they've been programmed to. But humans can react to changing circumstances and modify the robots' behavior accordingly. Of course, another reason to send people to Mars is the challengethe thrill of achieving such a major feat. There's also the issue of the survival of our species. If one day we can no longer live on Earth, our descendants will be glad we started planning now. So Mars could be a "Planet B?" Pierre Brisson, the president of Mars Society Switzerland. Credit: Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne Yes, eventually. We need to start developing technology now if we want humans to someday be able to live there permanently. It would take a colony around 100 years to become completely self-sufficient; in the beginning, it would be almost entirely dependent on the Earth. That said, Mars does have some key natural resources that could be used almost immediately. Its air contains 95% CO 2 , which can be processed to extract carbon and oxygen. And the water on Mars could be a source of hydrogen which, when combined with carbon, can generate methane, methanol, ethylene and other important compounds. Finally, the Martian soil was formed from the same types of rocks we have on Earth. That opens up the possibility of producing metals, glass and fertilizer. We'll need to make as many semi-finished materials as possible on site since sending them up from Earth would be extremely onerous. From what you describe, living on Mars sounds realistic. What do you think the first colonies will be like? Conditions will be difficult in the beginning. Scientists are already working on various life support systems, such as through the Micro-Ecological Life Support System Alternative (MELISSA) initiative by the European Space Agency (ESA). These life support systems consist of large domes that people will live inside and where almost all of the organic matter they use will be recycled, since organic compounds will be extremely valuable. The biggest challenge will be designing structures that can withstand the large pressure differential between the inside of the domeshumans need, say, 0.50.7 bars of pressure to liveand the atmospheric pressure on Mars, which is around 6 millibars on average. That differential will be a huge strain on the dome walls. Possible solutions that scientists are looking at include geodesic hemispheres of around 1020 meters in diameter that are firmly anchored in the groundand which would serve as common areascombined with smaller individual chambers where people would live. These chambers would be connected to each other and made of a steel frame and ultra-thick glass plates. The entire colony would be covered with huge blocks of Martian ice to shield against radiation. So people wouldn't be able to leave the colony? Only in space suits, which I imagine would become more comfortable and easier to wear as the technology develops. I'd also like to point out that conditions on Mars are much more amenable to human life than those on the Moon. Mainly because Mars has an atmosphere, even though it is thin. And secondly because the days on Mars last 24 hours and 39 minutes, whereas on the Moon they are equivalent to 14 Earth-days. There's also the fact that temperature fluctuations are much smaller on Marsranging from 20C during the day to 120C at night, and that gravity on Mars is closer to what we experience on Earth, meaning people can move more naturally with a body weight that's more like what they're used to. Studies have shown that microgravity can affect a body's vital functionsastronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) have reported lesions on their optical nerves, for instance. Missions to Mars will hopefully be less risky in that regard. But the trip to Mars would be much longer. What are the main challenges there? First of all, radiation. The level on Mars itself would be manageable, about the same as that on the ISS. But it could be a problem during the six-month trip to the planet, when astronauts would be exposed to different kinds of ionizing particles. They can protect themselves against solar radiationwhich consists mainly of protonsby taking refuge in chambers surrounded by water reservoirs when sun storms hit. What's more dangerous is the small amount of galactic cosmic radiation they will be subject to, made up of high-energy nuclei called HZE ions. They have so much energy that there is currently no material capable of blocking them, and they generate extremely hazardous gamma rays upon impact. The dose of this radiation that astronauts would receive on a trip to Mars is not excessivebut they wouldn't be able to tolerate much more. That's one reason why trips any farther than Marssay, a several-year trip to one of Jupiter's moonswouldn't be feasible. So in terms of distance, Mars is within reach given our existing technology. Doesn't that prove humans are too Earth-bound to travel in space? It's true that we evolved on Earth and are designed for it. Scientists still need to study the health effects of an extended stay on Mars. And we aren't sure that stays beyond one or two orbital periods, which last 26 months each, would be safealthough current research indicates they probably would be. We have a window of opportunity we need to seize. In any case, the exciting things we could learn from shorter manned missions to Mars, around 30 months, would be worth it. Credit: CC0 Public Domain Until now, user-friendliness has been the focus of the development of smart and functional textiles. Now it is time to address comfort when wearing these textilesa quality factor that should be of interest to the industry. The development of smart and functional e-textiles has gone at a rapid pace, not least when it comes to desired properties such as being lightweight, flexible, being elastic, and the possibility of integrating them into garments. User-friendliness has been the top priority, but when it comes to comfort, how the textiles actually feel on the skin, development has not come so far. This may explain why the market share of these textiles falls behind even though demand is high. Doctoral student Melkie Tadesse has, in his research project, developed a method for assessing this, which should be of great interest for the industry when it comes to quality evaluation of these kinds of textiles. "So far, the research has sought to produce a material that is perceived as an ordinary textile, but without succeeding in finding a method for evaluating the feeling, the comfort, of the material against the skin," he explains. The aim also extends to being able to predict tactile comfort. Sample material collection In his project, he has set up a sample material collection by developing and collecting various smart and functional textiles, using 3-D printing, coating, inkjet printing, screen printing on the textile substrate and smart fibers integrated in the knitting process itself. The functional textile materials have different properties such as being thermochromic (they are activated by heat), electrically conductive (activated by an electric current), photochromic (activated when exposed to light), and electroluminescent (they emit light when an electric current passes through it). Verification by an expert panel Various characterisation methods such as durability against washing and mechanical actions, electrical conductivity and surface properties were analysed. Then he examined how the different functional fabrics were experienced in skin contact based on physiological and psychological aspects. Various experiments with visual and blind subjective evaluations were carried out. "We used an expert panel to verify the results. The participants touched and squeezed functional fabric materials and evaluated them based on different bipolar attributes, that is, words and their opposite words, e.g. rough-smooth, that are directly or indirectly related to tactile comfort, i.e. different ways to put words to the experience of touch." Objective data (low-stress mechanical properties) was collected through a measuring system for textiles, the Kawabata Evaluation System, where the physical properties of the textile material are measured under low load conditions, such as how it behaves in regards to, for example, tensile and pressure, bending, surface friction and shearing on contact with the skin, in which the result showed that low stress mechanical properties are directly related to the tactile comfort of fabrics when in contact with the skin. By using different statistical methods, he produced an interpretable result from the collected data. The result shows that it is possible to use visual tests as well as blind tests to evaluate the comfort properties of smart and functional textiles. Environmental friendly technologies and chemicals The project has been framed by a comprehensive approach to sustainable development. "In the project, we have used completely environmentally friendly, resource-efficient and cost-effective techniques and chemicals, not least when it comes to inkjet printing, when we have developed and collected the various textile materials." Explore further First scalable graphene yarns for wearable textiles produced More information: Tadesse, Melkie Gednet. Quality Inspection and Evaluation of Smart or Functional Textile Fabric Surface by Skin Contact Mechanics Tadesse, Melkie Gednet. Quality Inspection and Evaluation of Smart or Functional Textile Fabric Surface by Skin Contact Mechanics hb.diva-portal.org/smash/record.jsf?pid=diva2 %3A1303654&dswid=-4496 Provided by University of Boras Photo: Joseph Prezioso/AFP/Getty Images Intelligencer staffers Benjamin Hart, Margaret Hartmann, and Ed Kilgore discuss whether Elizabeth Warrens recent momentum is a sign of things to come. Ben: Though she still distantly trails front-runner Joe Biden, Elizabeth Warren has made unmistakable progress in recent polls, edging into a consensus third place behind Biden and Bernie Sanders. She has a detailed policy proposal for seemingly every problem in America, including peoples love lives; speaks clearly and cogently about what shed do as president; is likely to excel in the Democratic debates, which begin next month; and has assembled an impressive campaign infrastructure in crucial Iowa. Some of us here at Intelligencer have been skeptical that Warren could actually win the nomination. Have recent developments made you feel much different about her chances than you did before? Ed: I never really wrote her off, but yeah, early developments in the invisible primary have been favorable for her. Margaret: The Times article about her today actually made me slightly more skeptical. Ben: MORE skeptical, eh? Margaret: Well, not skeptical of her chances of winning the Democratic nomination skeptical of the idea that nominating her is a good idea. There were just some notes that rang very HRC to me. She has a policy position for everything! Ive heard that one before. I just wish we lived in a world where people care about such things Ed: Yeah, I have similar bad memories about a book (Our Plan for America) I helped write when John Kerry and John Edwards had a plan for everything. Margaret: My apologies to Warren. It is exciting that her superior ideas/smarts are winning people over. Im just in a very Dems are going to lose anyway, so what does it even matter mood today. And as weve discussed previously, I think Warren losing will be disastrous for women in politics, whereas Im not as worried about the consequences for old white guys if Biden or Sanders loses to Trump. Ed: I hope youre not saying that women should stop running for president until theyre sure one of them will win? Margaret: No, I just continue to think she in particular is too similar to the last woman who lost. Ed: Getting back to the plan for everything issue, its one thing to brag about what government can do for people in a general election. In a Democratic nominating contest in this particular day and age, its catnip for many activists and donors. She can still go vague in the general Ben: I also happen to think Warren is quite a bit more talented than Hillary Clinton was at explicating why shes putting forth these proposals and what they would do for people. I have reservations about her candidacy, but I do think thats a key difference. Margaret: Yeah, I agree, but I just shuddered at this line from the Times article: Some online supporters have even taken to calling her Likable Liz in an attempt to rebuff notions she is only a policy wonk. I feel like I spent all of the 2016 cycle actually much of my adult life trying to convince people that Hillary is likable. Ed: I actually didnt rush to read the piece, since its an argument Ive already made myself, but I would point out that in three trial heats this month including polls from Rasmussen and Fox News shes leading Trump. Margaret: I hope Im wrong! Ben: There is not a lot of evidence that shed be a particularly bad match for him and yet I worry, perhaps irrationally. This might be where the self-inflicted wound from her handling of the Native American issue comes into play. Ed: Ive personally never bought the idea that being a woman or even an older woman was why HRC lost to Trump. Margaret: I dont think it is either. I think I underestimated how much people truly hated Hillary! Ed: A billion-dollar conservative-movement investment in demonizing her over decades will do that. Margaret: Maybe my sense that its a huge mistake for Dems to try to force their voters to be enthusiastic about the front-runner is more applicable to Biden. Politico suggested today that theres a Biden enthusiasm gap, but I wasnt entirely convinced Ed: Pew had a new study out showing that Dem base voters werent exactly psyched about nominating any white male in 2020. Margaret: Yeah, Im not convinced that crowd size at this point or maybe ever really means much. Ed: Nah. Thats like the Romney will win in 2012 because of his yard signs prophecies. Ben: I do think there is quite a bit of soft Biden support out there, though. But Ed, youve written that his front-runner status doesnt, or shouldnt, really threaten Warren at this point the way it does other candidates. Why is that? Ed: Warren should welcome a one-on-one fight with Biden. Until she gets to that point, hes taking votes away from candidates who are a greater immediate threat to her. The Biden surge coincided with Warrens own more modest surge into third place. And its really important for her to stay within shouting distance of Bernie while avoiding any real boom for, say, Harris or Buttigieg. Ben: How much of an obstacle or asset do you think her anti-big-business, anti-big-donor stance is at this point? Margaret: I think its helpful and is one point that clearly distinguishes her from Hillary Clinton and Biden. Thats apparently what hes doing while hes not holding big rallies. Ed: Ideologically, its a huge asset, as Margaret suggests. In terms of donors, it means she needs to live off the fat of her transferred Senate money as long as possible and hope that her enhanced viability keeps the small-dollar donations rolling in. She is spending a lot of money on staff. Or to use the favored term of the chattering classes, she has a potentially unsustainable burn rate. Ben: I had not heard that one. Ed: You clearly dont read Axios and Politico enough, Ben. Ben: If anything, I read them too much. Trump has largely held his fire on Warren lately, preferring to go after Biden and Buttigieg more often. To what extent are Democrats who are nervous about her nomination simply psyching themselves out in anticipation of his rolling out the Pocahontas slur and other broadsides once again? Margaret: This is precisely my fear, so you can tell me to what extent Im just psyching myself out, Ed. I feel like hell just run the Hillary playbook against her with more racist slurs. Ed: Trumps going to run the Hillary playbook against his opponent no matter who that happens to be. Margaret: Hell at least have to think up some new stuff for Biden or Mayor Pete (though to be clear, I dont have high hopes of them beating him). I guess hes actually going to run with Hillary + socialism. None of this is rocket science. Ed: You really are pessimistic today, Margaret. Margaret: Haha, sorry. Warren 2020! Yes we can! Love Trumps hate! She persisted! Ben: Haha. Ed: I think we should note that Warrens less-than-adept handling of the Native American thing at the beginning of this cycle has something to do with fears about how shell handle it when Trump starts in on her. I was thinking of her very specifically when I wrote that Dems needed an unbreakable candidate, but the DNA-test incident gave me pause. A view of the northeast Brooks Range in Alaska. Credit: Justin V. Strauss Parts of Alaska's mountainous Brooks Range were likely transported from Greenland and a stretch of the Canadian Arctic much farther to the east, according to a series of Dartmouth-led studies detailing over 300 million years of Arctic geologic history. The finding updates the geological evolution of the Arctic Ocean and could help revise predictions about the Arctic's oil, gas and mineral wealth. By explaining the formation of the Arctic Ocean in the Western Hemisphereknown as the Amerasian Basinthe research provides more clues into the geological history of the rapidly changing region. "This is arguably the most important place for the United States from the perspective of Arctic economic development," said Justin Strauss, an assistant professor of earth science at Dartmouth. "The geology of this region, which is directly connected to its ancient history, will help revise our knowledge about natural resources in the Arctic." The existing model for the formation of the Arctic Ocean along the U.S. and Canada border region details how seismic activity, known as faulting, caused Alaska to rotate away from a western band of islands in the Canadian Arctic starting approximately 125 million years ago. Under this original "rotation" scenario, parts of the Brooks Range should match perfectly with Canada's Banks Island and Victoria Island about 450 miles away. But after close to ten years studying exposed rocks in the region, the Dartmouth studies show that the area actually contains rocks with origins as far away as 1,200 miles to the east. The results were recently published in a Special Papers series by the Geological Society of America. "The geology of the northeastern Brooks Range does not match anything that we've studied in the neighboring region of North America," said Strauss, the research lead of the study. "This complicates previous models for how you open this major ocean basin." Further confirming the findings, researchers in the study area saw signs of mountain-building processes that are not known to have taken place near the present position of the Brooks Range. This collision of ancient land masses dating from 400-450 million years is more closely associated with tectonic activity in the eastern Arctic. The team believes that the area was formed by a combination of activities including the action of a major strike-slip fault systemsimilar to the San Andreas Fault of Californiathat transported part of what is now the Brooks Range from Greenland to the western Canadian Arctic Islands. A smaller scale rotation of the land mass farther westward that has been previously recorded may complete the explanation of how northern Alaska was transported to its current location. "Relationships on the northwestern margin of North America have long been poorly understood and poorly documented," said Bill McClelland, a professor of earth and environmental studies at the University of Iowa and co-investigator of the study. "The results of these studies have significantly enhanced our understanding of the tectonic processes that formed the Arctic margin of North America and will be instrumental in pushing forward on new research frontiers." "Because of its remoteness, the North Slope of Alaska and Yukon has seen limited studies to date," said co-investigator Maurice Colpron, a scientist with the Yukon Geological Survey. "Understanding the area with complete certainty will still take many years of hard work, but these research findings greatly advance our knowledge of the region." As the Arctic continues to open for the development of oil, gas and mineral resources, this new understanding of the region's history could change predictions of how much resource wealth lies in the area. The United States Geological Survey currently estimates that about 6 percent of the world's oil and 25 percent of the world's natural gas are in the Arctic. The region studied by the team lies within the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, an area that some would like to open for oil drilling. In addition to changing the outlook over how much resource wealth exists in the Arctic and where it sits, the research could impact how countries lay claim to those resources. The United States, Russia, Canada and other Arctic countries are all jostling for extended footholds in the region. "If countries are going to make legal claims based on geology or geophysics, they should consider these much older boundaries that we are highlighting. Governments will to need to confront the complexities of geology meeting politics," said Strauss. While magnetic surveys allow researchers to understand how the Arctic's Eurasian Basin over Europe and western parts of Asia was formed, that same data are not as easy to interpret for the Amerasian Basin above North America. The research, funded by the National Science Foundation, is based on the existence of a major fault system in the northern part of North America that has yet to be completely mapped. "This is the area of the Arctic Ocean that still baffles researchers. It's one of the last major ocean basins on the planet that we just do not understand," said Strauss. In future studies, the research team will focus on Canada's Yukon and Ellesmere Island to look for major fault systems. The research will retrace hundreds of millions of years of geological evolution to further explore where this part of Alaska came from and why it landed where it did. Explore further Driving a wedge into historic gaps of climate science The performance of materials is often improved by stabilizing interfaces between grains by alloying with other elements. (Image by SYNL) Extensive alloying makes material development more dependent on scarce resources. Alloyed materials with complicated compositions are also difficult to synthesize and recycle. With increased alloying, material costs continue to spiral while property enhancements level off. For these reasons, the sustainability of materials, especially metals, has recently gained more and more attention. In a study published in Science, Prof. Li Xiuyan and Prof. Lu Ke from the Shenyang National Laboratory for Materials Science (SYNL), Institute of Metal Research of the Chinese Academy of Sciences propose improving material properties by plainification, a method of tailoring stable interfaces between grains at different length scales by using fewer or no alloying elements. Plainification would advance material sustainability by lowering the cost of materials, increasing resource independence and improving material recyclability. While the underlying principle of plainification is sound, it faces challenges due to the intrinsic instability of microstructures at the nanometer scale where property variations are dramatically increased. Previous studies by Prof. Li Xiuyan and Prof. Lu Ke, published respectively in Science in 2018 and Phys. Rev. Lett. in 2019, revealed that nano-sized grains in pure copper and nickel produced from plastic deformation exhibit notable thermal and mechanical stability against coarsening below a critical grain size, thanks to an autonomous grain boundary relaxation to low-energy states that suppresses dislocation nucleation. Such stabilization strengthens metals in a way that is distinct from how alloys resist dislocation slip. This finding offers new possibilities for developing stable nanostructured metals and alloys with novel properties, which is the basis for the plainification strategy. As chief scientist, Prof. Li Xiuyan leads the Key R&D Project on "Plainification of materials with low-energy interfaces," which has been financially supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) since 2018. Beneath the typical full-time, permanent model of classroom teaching lies an enormous workforce of educators who function on the margins as precarious workers. Credit: Shutterstock Recent announcements in Ontario about public education have been controversial, with changes including larger classroom sizes, mandatory online courses and curriculum revisions. However, perhaps most significantly, the imposed changes will lead to the loss of teaching positions across the province. With government priorities focused on educational austerity, schools will have to do more with less. Often, within such discussions are highly politicized debates emerging over issues such as teacher compensation and working conditions. Some believe teachers to be an extremely privileged group in Ontario, afforded positions which include strong salaries, benefits, pensions and vacation time. Others counter that teachers work in a profession with long hours, extensive overtime and challenging classroom conditions. Nevertheless, such arguments continue to miss the mark as they do not fully highlight the range of workers involved in education. What remains obscured is the significant impact such changes will hold for education workers across the province. My own research into the issue of teacher unemployment and underemployment in Ontario over the past decade revealed a concerning reality for many teachers. In fact, beneath the typical full-time, permanent model of the classroom teacher lies an enormous labour force of educators and education workers who largely function on the margins as precarious workers. A more precarious reality Precarious employment can be understood as forms of work which deviate from what sociologists have defined as the "standard employment relationship." Such a relationship is generally understood as one where a single employer provides full-time, year-round permanent employment and often includes benefits other than wages. Precarious employment can include forms of temporary, part-time and contractual work, or jobs which do not provide a living wage as well as the state of being self-employed. Estimates place at least 30 to 40 percent of all workers in Ontario in precarious employment and increasingly include workers once thought of as professional. For over a decade now, thousands of teachers across Ontario have existed within such an environment, with short-term, contractual and uncertain employment conditions being the norm rather than full-time, permanent positions. These jobs range widely from receiving daily calls in the morning as an occasional (supply) teacher, to part-time contracts ranging from a few weeks or months at a time. Indeed, the changing landscape of precarious education work has resulted in some teachers leaving their home countries to secure employment overseas. While the data remain sparse, there are likely tens of thousands of such teachers across the province. Many new teachers can often expect to remain in such positions for five to 10 years before finding full-time employment in Ontario. Precarious employment can impact teachers in numerous ways, including scheduling uncertainty, multiple jobs, continuous job searching, income variability and unpaid work expectations. Far beyond teachers However, teachers are not the only group of education workers feeling the pinch today. Precarious forms of employment have become increasingly normalized across the education sector. In 2017, labour action by Ontario college instructors highlighted the precarious nature of work in the post-secondary setting. In addition, there remain a plethora of insecure groups of workers in education which often include educational assistants, early childhood educators, daycare workers and school bus drivers who face precarious work daily and the challenges associated with it. These are front-line workers who engage with students and children each day, ensuring not only students' learning but also their health, safety and well-being. To ignore that the conditions of their work impact the quality of education, and that the work they do with students inside and outside of the classroom is an integral part of school experience, remains problematic. Models for future generations The situation facing teachers in Ontario today reveals the changing nature of work and the global trend which has pushed more and more workers into precarity. The experience of precarious work is not only economic, but rather personal, social and psychologicalit impacts individuals as well as families and communities. All educators are human beings, workers and taxpayers, and continued attacks on them will largely serve only to push effective teachers out of the system adversely impacting our students. The recent political decisions in Ontario also reveal how the challenge of teacher un(der)employment is not simply a supply-side problem of "too many teachers." It is also largely a demand-side issue where policy decisions dictate both the number of teachers and educators within schools and the nature of their work. Such policy choices, made unilaterally and ideologically, serve to further alienate teachers from a profession which they often love. One only needs to look south of the border where teacher shortages and attrition are the norm largely due to poor working conditions. The working conditions of teachers and educators should enable them to be models for studentswho, let's hope, may themselves all thrive in the future with good jobs and decent work conditions. Explore further Teachers and Trump This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This image of Earth taken by ESA astronaut Alexander Gerst from the International Space Station was shared on Alexander's social media channels in June 2018. Credit: ESA/NASAA. Gerst From disrupted biological clocks to radiation and contamination hazards, Europe is running experiments on the International Space Station to take human exploration one step closer to Mars. As a new week starts on planet Earth, continuous research in orbit brings new knowledge about the challenges of making a trip to the Red Planet a reality. Martian rhythm A crew on a journey to Mars would live outside of the 24-hour cycle of light and darkness we experience on Earth. So do astronauts on the Space Station who experience 16 sunrises and sunsets every day. Scientists believe that such disruption has an impact on the astronauts' biological clock. To see how long-duration spaceflight affects people, NASA astronaut Anne McClain wore two sensorsone on the forehead and another one on the chestfor 36 hours as part of the Circadian Rhythms experiment. For the fifth and last time during her mission, Anne's core body temperature and melatonin levels were monitored. Results will be compared to those taken on Earth before and after her mission to understand the effects and how to counteract them during deep space missions. Strategies for adaptingor notto new rhythms could shed light on sleep disorders and help people on Earth that live outside of the natural cycle, staying up late or working night shifts. NASA astronaut Anne McClain donning the Circadian Rhythms hardware, a sensor that monitors how a crew members biological clock changes during spaceflight. Credit: NASA The pass of time could also be an issue for a trip to Mars that would last over 500 days. Recent research shows that astronauts underestimate time in orbit, just as they have an altered perception of distance in space. Canadian Space Agency astronaut David Saint-Jacques and NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nick Hague gauged how long a visual target appears on a laptop screen and their reaction times to these prompts recorded to process speed and attention. This was all part of the Time experiment, a relevant research because a misperception of time may cause delayed reactions and create risks for crew safety. Oxidative Mars Space takes its toll on the human body. An interplanetary mission to Mars will see astronauts aging faster. The International Space Station provides a unique opportunity to both reproduce the effects of aging and study the huge oxidative impact. The European Nano Antioxidants experiment is seeking innovative antioxidants to stimulate cells in the battle against muscle loss. Living cells and ceramic particles were placed in the Kubik incubator for six days, housed in ESA's Columbus module. Half of the samples were kept at close to zero gravity, while the rest were exposed to the same gravity as Earth. These ceramic particles, called nanoceria, mimic the biological behaviour of enzymes from living organisms. The particles can protect organisms from the damage caused by oxidative stress. Credit: Gianni Ciofani The cells are now frozen at 80C and waiting for their ride home on 3 June aboard the SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft. Findings from this research could aid the development of new supplements to support astronauts on missions to Mars. As soon as humans leave the protective shield that is Earth's atmosphere, space radiation becomes a serious concern, especially if headed to Mars. Radiation levels in space are up to 15 times higher than on Earth. The Dosis-3-D experiment helps understand space radiation and how it penetrates the Space Station walls. Eleven radiation detectors attached to the walls of Columbus record how much radiation gets through and help create a complete picture of space radiation inside the Station. The latest data downlink on 21 May marked seven years of continuous measurements in space for Dosis-3-D. Resistant materials for the interplanetary journey Radiation also has an impact on hardware. The ICE Cubes facility is ESA's faster, lower cost answer to making science happen in space. One of the "cubessmall modular containers slotted in the Columbus labis investigating commercial computer boards' resistance to space radiation. Matiss-2 experiment on the space station. Credit: NASA Bacteria and fungi can become a threat for both human health and equipment as they tend to build up in the constantly-recycled atmosphere of the International Space Station. European researchers are addressing this contamination with the Matiss-2 experiment. This study aims to find better materials to build a space station or spacecraft, especially important on our way to Mars. Scientists will analyze the materials to see how the bacteria formed biofilms that protect them from cleaning agents and also help them adhere to surfaces. This week David Saint-Jacques packed the seventh sample holder with anti-microbial surfaces to be shipped back to Earth for analysis. Explore further Studying how time is perceived in space A calorimeter designed by UBC researchers that is capable of detecting anomalous heat at high temperatures and high pressures. Credit: University of British Columbia Scientists from the University of British Columbia (UBC), the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the University of Maryland, the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and Google are conducting a multi-year investigation into cold fusion, a type of benign nuclear reaction hypothesized to occur in benchtop apparatus at room temperature. A progress report published today in Nature publicly discloses the group's collaboration for the first time. The group, which included about 30 graduate students, postdoctoral researchers and staff scientists, has not yet found any evidence of the phenomenon, but they did find important new insights into metal-hydrogen interactions that could impact low-energy nuclear reactions. The team remains excited about investigating this area of science and hopes their ongoing journey will inspire others in the scientific community to contribute data to this intriguing field. "We need a fundamentally new energy technology that can be scaled within the span of a human lifetime," says UBC chemist Curtis Berlinguette, principal investigator on the study. "This program provided us with a safe environment to take the long shotgiven the profound impact this could have on society, we should remain open to it even if there is an unknown probability of success." Operating as a "peer group" with a stringent internal review process, the team started out by vetting previous claims of cold fusion, which have not been pursued in mainstream academic research for the past 30 years. If cold fusion could be realized, the heat released by this process might offer an attractive option for decarbonizing the global energy system. "If any research project ever met the definition of high-risk, high-reward, this would be the one," says Yet-Ming Chiang, principal investigator and Kyocera professor of materials science and engineering at MIT. "Electrochemistry can create interesting states of matter. If those states of matter help us in the search for new clean energy sources, all the better." The collaborative effort has produced nine peer reviewed publications and three arXiv posts. The team continues to search for a reproducible reference experiment for cold fusion. More information: Curtis P. Berlinguette et al. Revisiting the cold case of cold fusion, Nature (2019). Nature (2019). Journal information: Nature Curtis P. Berlinguette et al. Revisiting the cold case of cold fusion,(2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1256-6 Curtis P. Berlinguette et al. Revisiting the cold case of cold fusion,(2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1256-6 Antarcticas ice sheets could be melting faster than we think. Credit: Tanya Patrick/CSIRO science image, CC BY Most major airports in Australia are located on reclaimed swamps, sitting only a few meters above the present day sea level. And the risk of sea level rise from climate change poses a greater threat to our airports than we're prepared for. In fact, some of the top climate scientists now believe global sea-level rise of over two meters by 2100 is likely under our current trajectory of high carbon emissions. This makes Cairns (less than 3m above sea level), Sydney and Brisbane (under 4m), and Townsville and Hobart (both around under 5m) airports among the most vulnerable. In the US, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has recommended that global mean sea level rise of up to 2.7 meters this century should be considered in planning for coastal infrastructure. This is two to three times greater than the upper limit of recommended sea level rise projections applied in Australia. But generally, the amount of sea level rise we can expect over the coming century is deeply uncertain. This is because ice sheet retreat rates from global warming are unpredictable. Given the significant disruption cost and deep uncertainty associated with the timing of sea level rise, we must adopt a risk-based approach which considers extreme sea level rise scenarios as part of coastal infrastructure planning. Are we prepared? As polar ocean waters warm, they can cause glaciers to melt from beneath, leading to more icebergs breaking off into the ocean and then a rapid rise in global sea level. This has happened multiple times in the Earth's past and, on some occasions, in a matter of decades. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) puts sea level rise projections for Australia somewhere between 50 to 90 centimeters by 2090, relative to the average sea level measured between 1986 to 2005. But the emerging science indicates this may now be an underestimate. Some studies suggest if substantive glacial basins of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet were to collapse, it could contribute at least a further two meters to global sea levels. Most Australian airports have conducted risk assessments for the IPCC projections. In fact, there is no state-level policy that considers extreme sea level rise for the most critical infrastructure, even though it is possible sea levels could exceed those recommended by the IPCC within the coming century. And for airports, the planning implications are stark when you compare the current projection of less than a meter of sea level rise and the potential of at least a two metre rise later this century. Taking the most low-lying major airports in Australia as an example, our modeling suggests a collapse of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet would see their near complete inundationwithout any adaptation in place. For more elevated locations, coastal infrastructure may still be inoperable more frequently when the combined effect of storm surges, waves, elevated groundwater or river flooding are considered. A $200 billion problem Our airports and other forms of infrastructure near the coastline are critical to the Australian economy. The aviation industry has an estimated annual revenue of over A$43 billion, adding around A$16 billion to the economy in 2017. While there are many uncertainties around the future cost of sea-level rise, a study by the Climate Council suggests over a meter sea level rise would put more than A$200 billion worth of Australian infrastructure at risk. It is difficult to assign a probability and time-frame to ice sheet collapse, but scientific estimates are reducing that time frame to a century rather than a millennium. Uncertainty generally comes with a cost, so proactive planning would make economic sense. Adapting our most critical coastal assets while sea levels rapidly rise is not an optionmitigation infrastructure could take decades to construct and may be prohibitively expensive. Given the deep uncertainties associated with the timing of ice-sheet collapse, we suggest airport and other critical coastal infrastructure is subjected to risk analysis for a two to three meter sea level rise. Explore further Global sea level could rise 15 meters by 2300, study says This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Doctoral student Takanori Harashima (right) and Associate professor Tomoaki Nishino (left) in the laboratory at Tokyo Tech. Credit: Harashima Takanori, Tomoaki Nichino Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology and University of Tsukuba demonstrate that polymers could play a key role in the fabrication of single-molecule electronic devices, allowing us to push the boundaries of the nanoelectronics revolution. One of the most striking aspects of the electronic devices we have today is their size and the size of their components. Pushing the limits of how small an electronic component can be made is one of the main topics of research in the field of electronics around the world, and for good reasons. For example, the accurate manipulation of incredibly small currents using nanoelectronics could allow us to not only improve the current limitations of electronics, but also grant them new functionalities. So, how far down does the rabbit hole go in the field of miniaturization? A research team led by Tomoaki Nishino, Associate Professor of the School of Science at Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech) is exploring the depths of this; in other words, they are working on single-molecule devices. "Ultimate miniaturization is expected to be realized by molecular electronics, where a single molecule is utilized as a functional element," explains Nishino. However, as one would expect, creating electronic components from a single molecule is no easy task. Functional devices consisting of a single molecule are hard to fabricate. Furthermore, the junctions (points of "electric contact") that involve them have short lifetimes which makes their application difficult. Based on previous works, the research team inferred that a long chain of monomers (single molecules) to form polymers would yield better results than smaller molecules. To demonstrate this idea, they employed a technique called scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), in which a metallic tip that ends in a single atom is used to measure extremely small currents and their fluctuations that occur when the tip creates a junction with an atom or atoms at the target surface. Through STM, the team created junctions composed of the tip and either a polymer called poly(vinylpyridine) or its monomer counterpart, called 4,4'-trimethylenedipyridine, which can be regarded as one of components of the polymer. By measuring the conductive properties of these junctions, the researchers sought to prove that polymers could be useful for fabricating single-molecule devices. However, to carry out their analyses, the team first had to devise an algorithm that allowed them to extract quantities that were of interest to them from the current signals measured by the STM. In short, their algorithm allowed them to automatically detect and count small plateaus in the current signal measured over time from the tip and the target surface; the plateaus indicated that a stable conducting junction was created between the tip and a single molecule on the surface. Using this approach, the research team analyzed the results obtained for the junctions created with the polymer and its monomer counterpart. They found that the polymer yielded much better properties as an electronic component than the monomer. "Probability of junction formation, one of the most important properties for future practical applications, was much higher for the polymer junction," states Nishino. In addition, the lifetimes of these junctions were found to be higher, and the current flowing through the polymer junctions was more stable and predictable (with less deviation) than that for the monomeric junctions. The results presented by the research team reveal the potential of polymers as building blocks for electronics miniaturization in the future. Are they the key for pushing the boundaries of the achievable physical limits? Hopefully, time will soon tell. Explore further A fail-safe mechanism for DNA repair More information: Takanori Harashima et al, Highly Reproducible Formation of a Polymer Single-Molecule Junction for a Well-Defined Current Signal, Angewandte Chemie International Edition (2019). Journal information: Angewandte Chemie International Edition Takanori Harashima et al, Highly Reproducible Formation of a Polymer Single-Molecule Junction for a Well-Defined Current Signal,(2019). DOI: 10.1002/anie.201903717 Artists impression of the interstellar asteroid 'Oumuamua. Credit: ESA/Hubble, NASA, ESO, M. Kornmesser Our solar system may contain alien comets that were stolen from another star flying past 4.5 billion years ago. Far away in a distant cluster of young stars, a similar close encounter might have also sent the inter-stellar visitor "Oumuamua" flying on its way toward us, and there must be many more of these free-floating objects in the galaxy. These are results of a new study by astrophysicists at the University of Zurich. A strange cosmic object made headlines after it was discovered in October 2017. The cigar-shaped body named "Oumuamua was the first known interstellar visitor of our solar system. Many theories have been suggested to explain its origin, including the possibility of it being an alien spacecraft. Using large computer simulations, researchers at the University of Zurich now show how "Oumuamua-style objects can be produced. They calculated what happens when multiple young stars are born together in a stellar clustera similar environment to that in which our sun was probably born 4.5 billion years ago. Planets, comets and asteroids form around these young stars when they are still in their infancy. "Coming into close contact with other stars can have a profound effect on these planetary systems," explains Tom Hands, first author of the study that has been carried out in the frame of the National Centre for Competence in Research (NCCR) PlanetS and is published by the journal MNRAS. A video based on the simulations demonstrates what happens if two young stars in a cluster undergo a close encounter. Each star has a belt of so-called planetesimals, the building blocks of planets, like the Kuiper belt in the outer solar system. When the two stars meet, the Kuiper belt of the smaller star is heavily disrupted by its higher mass sibling. "This causes a bunch of planetesimals to be ejected, flying away to become things like "Oumuamua," explains Tom Hands and adds: "I was surprised by the number of "Oumuamua-like free-floating objects that can be generated in an environment like this on a relatively short time-scale." Combined with other possible mechanisms to produce such objects, for the researcher it is clear that free-floating planetesimals, comets and asteroids should be ubiquitous in the galaxy. Material on bizarre orbits The simulations show that a close encounter not only sends objects hurtling through inter-stellar space, but some of the bodies are forced onto bizarre orbits or even captured by the passing star. Our own sun was most likely formed in a similar environment some 4.5 billion years ago, meaning it might have undergone similar encounters. "I was also surprised by the ease with which stars can steal material from their stellar siblings at a young age," says Tom Hands. So, our solar system may contain alien comets that were stolen from another star in these early phases. "Even if alien material is really there, there likely isn't much of it," admits the researcher: "But we might be able to detect it based on the strange orbits this stuff could be on." The results of the study also suggest that the existence of a ninth planet is not the only plausible explanation for the observed alignment of some objects in our solar system. "People should keep an open mind when considering how these things might have ended up on the orbits they are on," says Tom Hands. For their computationally expensive simulations the researchers used the supercomputer VESTA at the University of Zurich running the calculations on a Graphics Processing Unit. The simulations were very challenging because the star cluster evolves over millions of years, whilst the planetesimals orbit their host stars in a couple of hundred years, meaning the calculations have to last for tens of thousands of planetesimal orbits. "In addition to this, things can get very messy when two stars and their planetesimals begin to come into close contact," explains the astrophysicist. Previous studies considered only individual stars or planetesimals on very long orbits. "This is the first time we have been able to get a feeling for how the cluster environment could affect our Kuiper belt, or similar structures in exoplanetary systems," concludes Tom Hands. Explore further New study shows what interstellar visitor 'Oumuamua can teach us More information: T O Hands et al. The fate of planetesimal discs in young open clusters: implications for 1I/'Oumuamua, the Kuiper belt, the Oort cloud and more, Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society (2019). Journal information: Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society T O Hands et al. The fate of planetesimal discs in young open clusters: implications for 1I/'Oumuamua, the Kuiper belt, the Oort cloud and more,(2019). DOI: 10.1093/mnras/stz1069 Provided by National Centre of Competence in Research PlanetS An artist's representation of 'micro-submarines' transporting their medical cargo through capillaries among red blood cells. Credit: UNSW UNSW engineers have shown that micro-submarines powered by nano-motors could navigate the human body to provide targeted drug delivery to diseased organs without the need for external stimulus. Cancers in the human body may one day be treated by tiny, self-propelled "micro-submarines" delivering medicine to affected organs after UNSW Sydney chemical and biomedical engineers proved it was possible. In a paper published in Materials Today, the engineers explain how they developed micrometer-sized submarines that exploit biological environments to tune their buoyancy, enabling them to carry drugs to specific locations in the body. Corresponding author Dr. Kang Liang, with both the School of Biomedical Engineering and School of Chemical Engineering at UNSW, says the knowledge can be used to design next generation "micro-motors" or nano-drug delivery vehicles, by applying novel driving forces to reach specific targets in the body. "We already know that micro-motors use different external driving forcessuch as light, heat or magnetic fieldto actively navigate to a specific location," Dr. Liang says. "In this research, we designed micro-motors that no longer rely on external manipulation to navigate to a specific location. Instead, they take advantage of variations in biological environments to automatically navigate themselves." What makes these micro-sized particles unique is that they respond to changes in biological pH environments to self-adjust their buoyancy. In the same way that submarines use oxygen or water to flood ballast points to make them more or less buoyant, gas bubbles released or retained by the micro-motors due to the pH conditions in human cells contribute to these nanoparticles moving up or down. This is significant not just for medical applications, but for micro-motors generally. "Most micro-motors travel in a 2-dimensional fashion," Dr. Liang says. "But in this work, we designed a vertical direction mechanism. We combined these two concepts to come up with a design of autonomous micro-motors that move in a 3-D fashion. This will enable their ultimate use as smart drug delivery vehicles in the future." Dr. Liang illustrates a possible scenario where drugs are taken orally to treat a cancer in the stomach or intestines. To give an idea of scale, he says each capsule of medicine could contain millions of micro-submarines, and within each micro-submarine would be millions of drug molecules. "Imagine you swallow a capsule to target a cancer in the gastrointestinal tract," he says. "Once in the gastrointestinal fluid, the micro-submarines carrying the medicine could be released. Within the fluid, they could travel to the upper or bottom region depending on the orientation of the patient. "The drug-loaded particles can then be internalized by the cells at the site of the cancer. Once inside the cells, they will be degraded causing the release of the drugs to fight the cancer in a very targeted and efficient way." For the micro-submarines to find their target, a patient would need to be oriented in such a way that the cancer or ailment being treated is either up or downin other words, a patient would be either upright or lying down. Dr. Liang says the so-called micro-submarines are essentially composite metal-organic frameworks (MOF)-based micro-motor systems containing a bioactive enzyme (catalase, CAT) as the engine for gas bubble generation. He stresses that he and his colleagues' research is at the proof-of-concept stage, with years of testing needing to be completed before this could become a reality. Dr. Liang says the research teamcomprised of engineers from UNSW, University of Queensland, Stanford University and University of Cambridgewill be also looking outside of medical applications for these new multi-directional nano-motors. "We are planning to apply this new finding to other types of nanoparticles to prove the versatility of this technique," he says. Explore further Researchers use micro-robots to carry cells to a target site in live animals More information: Ziyi Guo et al. Biocatalytic self-propelled submarine-like metal-organic framework microparticles with pH-triggered buoyancy control for directional vertical motion, Materials Today (2019). Journal information: Materials Today Ziyi Guo et al. Biocatalytic self-propelled submarine-like metal-organic framework microparticles with pH-triggered buoyancy control for directional vertical motion,(2019). DOI: 10.1016/j.mattod.2019.04.022 Phuwiangvenator and Vayuraptor were fast and dangerous predators. Although only half as long as its relative, the T. rex, Phuwiangvenator almost reached the size of an Asian elephant. Credit: Adun Samathi/Uni of Bonn Scientists from the University of Bonn and the Sirindhorn Museum in Thailand have identified two new dinosaur species. They analyzed fossil finds that were already discovered 30 years ago in Thailand. Both species are distant relatives of T. rex, but with a somewhat more primitive structure. They were efficient predators. The results have now been published in the journal Acta Palaeontologica Polonica. Three decades ago a Thai museum employee discovered some fossilized bones during excavations. He handed them over to the Sirindhorn Museum, where they were never examined in detail. "Five years ago I came across these finds during my research," explains Adun Samathi. The Thai paleontologist is currently doing his doctorate at the Steinmann Institute of Geology, Mineralogy and Paleontology at the University of Bonn. He brought some casts of the fossils here to analyze them together with his doctoral supervisor Prof. Dr. Martin Sander using state-of-the-art methods. The results take a new look at the history of the megaraptors ("giant thieves"). The relatives of this group of carnivorous predatory dinosaurs include the Tyrannosaurus rex. Like the T. rex, they ran on their hind legs. Unlike the tyrant lizard, however, their arms were strong and armed with long claws. They also had more delicate heads that ended in a long snout. "We were able to assign the bones to a novel megaraptor, which we baptized Phuwiangvenator yaemniyomi," explains Samathi. The name is reminiscent on the one hand of the location, the Phuwiang district, and on the other hand of the discoverer of the first Thai dinosaur fossil, Sudham Yaemniyom. Adun Samathi analyzing the bone finds. Credit: University of Bonn Reconstruction of the predatory dinosaurs Phuwiangvenator and Vayuraptor with the marked fossil finds. Credit: Adun Samathi/Uni of Bonn Phuwiangvenator was probably a fast runner. With a length of about six meters, it was considerably smaller than the T. rex, who measured about twelve meters. Megaraptors have so far been discovered mainly in South America and Australia. "We have compared the Thai fossils with the finds there," says Samathi. "Various characteristics of Phuwiangvenator indicate that it is an early representative of this group. We take this as an indication that the megaraptors originated in Southeast Asia and then spread to other regions." During his research in Thailand, the doctoral student discovered further unidentified fossils. They also belong to a predatory dinosaur, which was a bit smaller with a length of about 4.5 meters. The material was not sufficient to clarify the exact ancestry. However, scientists assume that smaller dinosaur, named Vayuraptor nongbualamphuenisis, is also related to Phuwiangvenator and T. rex. "Perhaps the situation can be compared with that of African big cats," explains Samathi. "If Phuwiangvenator were a lion, Vayuraptor would be a cheetah." The two new predatory dinosaurs will be presented to the public today on the tenth anniversary of the Sirindhorn Museum. With blue-blooded support: The event will be opened by the Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Explore further Construction workers find dinosaur fossils in Denver suburb More information: Adun Samathi et al. Two new basal coelurosaurian theropod dinosaurs from the Early Cretaceous Sao Khua Formation of Thailand, Acta Palaeontologica Polonica (2019). Journal information: Acta Palaeontologica Polonica Adun Samathi et al. Two new basal coelurosaurian theropod dinosaurs from the Early Cretaceous Sao Khua Formation of Thailand,(2019). DOI: 10.4202/app.00540.2018 Photo: THOMAS WATKINS/AFP/Getty Images The unidentified flying objects look like white Tic Tacs, or spinning tops flying against the wind and Navy pilots keep reporting their presence over U.S. airspace. In interviews with the New York Times, five more pilots have come forward describing their experiences with UFOs flying off the Eastern seaboard from Virginia to Florida between 2014 and 2015. One ten-year veteran, Lieutenant Ryan Graves, claimed that he saw UFOs almost daily, and that the objects could reach hypersonic speeds and heights of up to 30,000 feet without any visible engine or plumes of infrared exhaust. Graves, who reported his experience to the Pentagon and Congress, said, These things would be out there all day, and that, with the speeds we observed, 12 hours in the air is 11 hours longer than wed expect. In late 2014, a pilot of a Super Hornet reported a near-collision with a UFO when an object that looked like a sphere encasing a cube zipped between two fighter jets flying roughly 100 feet from each other. Another pilot, Lieutenant Danny Accoin, could identify a flying objects presence on his radar, missile system, and infrared camera but was not able to actually see it in his helmet camera. I knew I had it, I knew it was not a false hit, Accoin said. But still, I could not pick it up visually. As the Times reports, pilot sightings of UFOs have increased since their 1980s-era radar was upgraded to a more advanced system. As one fighter jet after another got the new radar, pilots began picking up the objects, but ignoring what they thought were false radar tracks. What fascinated Lieutenant Graves about his interactions with the objects was their ability to stop rapidly, turn instantly, and immediately accelerate to hypersonic speed maneuvers that would burden human pilots with unbearable G-forces. Speed doesnt kill you, Graves said. Stopping does. Or acceleration. Because the sightings occurred in airspace designated for fighter-jet training, the pilots concurred that the objects were not classified or commercial drones operating in the area. Still, none of the five nor the Defense Department would speculate as to the objects extraterrestrial nature. Were here to do a job, with excellence, not make up myths, said Accoin. The past few years have been something of a quiet golden age for UFO enthusiasts hoping to prove the validity of their interests. First, there was the Pentagons 2017 admission of the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, a short-lived, $22 million scrap of the Defense budget that would investigate reports of unexplained aerial phenomena. Then, in November 2018, scientists from the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics proposed a long-shot hypothesis about the cigar-shaped object Oumuamua, which passed through the solar system in 2017: It was a solar sail, gathering energy from the sun to accelerate through our galaxial neighborhood. (The technology isnt all that complicated; humans have already developed it.) And in April, the Navy announced it is updating and formalizing the process by which pilots report UFO sightings, as a means to destigmatize the sharing of information and treat the reports with a more data-driven approach. Luis Elizondo, a former senior intelligence officer, told the Washington Post that it was the single greatest decision the Navy has made in decades. At this rate, the presidents Space Force might actually have something to do. Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Terms & Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. The sampling site. Samples were taken from the central yellow outcrop and water from the blue pool at the bottom of the chimney. Credit: Felipe Gomez/Europlanet The first study of ultra-small bacteria living in the extreme environment of Ethiopia's Dallol hot springs shows that life can thrive in conditions similar to those thought to have been found on the young planet Mars. An international team of researchers lead by Dr. Felipe Gomez from Astrobiology Center in Spain (CAB (CSIC-INTA)) has found a strain of the Nanohaloarchaeles Order bacteria embedded in samples taken from a salt chimney deposited by supersaturated water at temperatures of 89 degrees Celsius and at the extremely acidic pH of 0.25. The samples were collected during a field trip to the Dallol volcano and the Danakil Depression in northern Ethiopia in January 2017, which was funded by the Europlanet 2020 Research Infrastructure (RI). The results are published today in the journal, Scientific Reports. "This is an exotic, multi-extreme environment, with organisms that need to love high temperature, high salt content and very low pH in order to survive," said Dr. Gomez. Precipitation by superheated water saturated with various salts, including silver chloride, zinc iron sulphide, manganese dioxide and normal rock-salt, creates Dallol's Technicolor landscape of yellows, reds, greens and blues. The team collected samples of the thin layers of salt deposits from the wall of a yellow chimney stack and a blue pool of water surrounding the outcrop. The samples were transported in sterile, sealed vials to state-of-the-art facilities in Spain, where they were analysed using a range of techniques, including electron microscopy, chemical analysis and DNA sequencing. The team identified tiny, spherical structures within the salt samples that had a high carbon content, demonstrating an unambiguously biological origin. Montage: (A) the sampling site, (B) the small chimneys (temperature of water 90 C. (C) D9 sample from a small chimney in (A). (D-L) Scanning Electron Microscope and (M-O) Scanning Transmission Electron Microscope images of sample D9 showing the morphologies of ultra-small microorganisms entombed in the mineral layers. Credit: Gomez et al/Europlanet The microorganisms are 50-500 nanometers in diameterup to 20 times smaller than the average bacteria. In several cases, the microorganisms are surrounded by needle-shaped crystals, which suggests that the nanobacteria may play an active role in the salt deposits and the geochemical cycle at Dallol. The Dallol volcano and geothermal area is one of the hottest places on Earth, with average annual temperatures of 36 to 38 degrees Celsius. It is located at the northern end of the Danakil Depression, which lies around 125m below sea level at the junction of three of the Earth's lithospheric plates (Arabian, Nubian and Somalian) that are moving apart. Hydrothermal activity is fueled by water that has been heated and enriched in gases by a shallow magma reservoir beneath the volcano. Dallol is surrounded by the wide Assale salt plain. The interaction between evaporated deposits and volcanism creates a unique and complex physical and chemical environment. The unusual geochemistry of Dallol has close parallels to hydrothermal environments found on Mars, including the Gusev Crater, where NASA's Spirit Mars Exploration Rover landed. Last month, the same international team published a review in the journal Astrobiology, highlighting the importance of Dallol as a field analogue for Mars and for astrobiological studies. The paper is the culmination of a two-year process supported by Europlanet 2020 RI to characterize the Dallol site's geology, mineralogy and biology in preparation for further study by planetary researchers. "Deep investigation of the characteristics of this amazing site will improve our understanding of the limits of life on Earth an inform our search for life on Mars and elsewhere in the universe," said Barbara Cavalazzi of the University of Bologna, lead author of the review. Explore further Rainbow-coloured hydrothermal systems show spectrum of extreme life on Earth More information: B. Cavalazzi et al. The Dallol Geothermal Area, Northern Afar (Ethiopia)An Exceptional Planetary Field Analog on Earth, Astrobiology (2019). B. Cavalazzi et al. The Dallol Geothermal Area, Northern Afar (Ethiopia)An Exceptional Planetary Field Analog on Earth,(2019). DOI: 10.1089/ast.2018.1926 Felipe Gomez et al. Ultra-small microorganisms in the polyextreme conditions of the Dallol volcano, Northern Afar, Ethiopia, Scientific Reports (2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44440-8 Journal information: Scientific Reports , Astrobiology Provided by Europlanet Society In the summer of 1969, my best friend was my transistor radio. With the radio glued to my ear, I spent hours daydreaming in the backyard, grooving to soulful sounds like Sly and the Family Stone singing Hot Fun in the Summertime. My humdrum neighborhood of Brookline was as far away from places like Marthas Vineyard and the California coast as it was from the silvery moon, yet by summers end, events in all those places would affect me and invade my comfort zone in profound ways. 1969 was an eventful year. Forget the French Revolution. When Charles Dickens wrote, It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, he couldve been describing 1969. When that summer began, I often tagged along behind my big sister and her friends as they hobnobbed around Brookline Boulevard, hitting the record stores, downing soda pops at Isalys, and winking at cute boys on the corner. Into this carefree teenage existence crept news mid-summer of another Kennedy family tragedy. Since I idolized President John Kennedy, when I heard Senator Ted Kennedy had a car accident in which a young woman was killed, I instantly paid heed. The incident happened the night of July 18 after a party on Chappaquiddick Island, off Marthas Vineyard, when Kennedy accidentally drove off a bridge and into a pond. While he escaped from the submerged vehicle, his passenger Mary Jo Kopechne perished inside the car. Unfortunately, Kennedy walked away from the scene, failing to notify police for hours. After pleading guilty to leaving the scene of an accident, Kennedy received a slap on the wrista light two-month suspended jail sentence. Talk about being disillusioned. I was confused and unsettled by his behavior and deeply disappointed at the collapse of another Kennedy hero. Why didnt he call the police? I asked in frustration. Was he drunk? Does this mean he can never run for president? Two days after Chappaquiddick, the nation witnessed another show-stopper, this time 250,000 miles away. Astronaut Neil Armstrong became the first man on the moon. I watched the moon landing in utter amazement. Also in utter disbelief. Keenly skeptical of anything the government said or did, I took a cue from the hippies. I didnt trust anyone over 30. How do we really know theyre on the moon? I queried. How do we know they arent in a studio faking it? Despite my skepticism, from then on I gazed at the night sky with curious eyes, peering at the luminous orb humans had conquered and pondering the impenetrable mysteries of the universe. Whats out there, I wondered? How far does the universe go? Is there intelligent life elsewhere? Heavy reflections for a 13-year-old. I didnt have long to reflect before another momentous event occurred. In early August, I awoke to the shocking news that actress Sharon Tate and her houseguests had been brutally murdered in her Benedict Canyon home in Los Angeles. What? People like her werent murdered. Married to director Roman Polanski, Tate was one of the beautiful people, a Hollywood starlet leading a glamorous life. She played Jennifer North in the popular film, Valley of the Dolls, a starring role which launched her career. I had read the book three times and was first in line at the movie theater. When I heard she was viciously stabbed the night of August 9 while in her ninth month of pregnancy, I was horrified. Too frightened to sleep at night, afraid of being butchered in bed. What maniac did this? I shrieked. Theres a madman on the loose! Months later, after police captured Charlie Manson and his followers, the Manson Family personified evil in the worlds eyes. How ironic that Charlie and his girls were hatched in Haight-Ashbury, the hub of the Summer of Love, where they emulated flower children, yet were anything but. Which brings us to Woodstock. Only six days after the Los Angeles slayings and about 3,000 miles away from the California canyons, a genuine band of flower childrensome 400,000descended upon Max Yasgurs dairy farm in Bethel, New York, to get back to nature and set their souls free. Billed as the Woodstock Music and Art Fair, the festival featured big concert actsJoe Cocker, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Joan Baez, Richie Havens, the Grateful Dead, among othersand promised three days of peace and love. Everybody wanted to go to Woodstock, including me. But how? I wasnt allowed to see the Beatles at the Civic Arena. Woodstock? Unimaginable. So I contented myself with being there spiritually, listening to my trusty transistor radio, and celebrating the movement to make love, not war, in my own backyard. Fifty years later, its clear that movement failed. Now we dream of living on Mars. And what to make of 1969? We put a man on the moon, but also mourned the slaughter of innocents. We rejoiced as half a million people joined hands in harmony, but also observed a privileged politician avoid the slammer. We saw the heights of human achievement, but also the depths of human depravity. In fact, the period was so far like the present one, to echo Dickens, maybe we are experiencing deja vu, and what happens in 2069 is anyones guess. Residents of Warren County are going to have to wait a while longer to find out what the county has been offered in exchange for use of its rail line. The county has declined to release "requests for proposals" submitted by companies that want to lease or buy the county's railroad line. I filed a Freedom of Information Law request for them, as I explained here, and was told it was under review in early May. County Administrator Ryan Moore gave this explanation last week, two weeks after responding to my FOIL request: "At this juncture, disclosure of the RFP responses would place the County and Town at a disadvantage in the negotiating process. If the vendors we are considering have access to one anothers proposals, it will impact our ability to negotiate better financial terms as well as critical priorities for County and Town residents, including but not limited to storage of rail cars and preservation of longer-term recreational options including trail development. Additionally, the proposals contain detailed non-public financial information that we have been asked by the vendors not to disclose. As such, the RFP responses are currently protected from disclosure under Section 87(2) of the Public Officers Law." With the exception of information that, if disclosed, might cause competitive harm to proposers, it is my intention to release these proposals publicly once the County and Town have secured an MOA or similar agreement with the successful vendor." The town of Corinth owns the rails between Saratoga Springs and Corinth. But the town of Corinth supervisor's refusal to talk about any of this should be concerning to residents there as well. He has not returned repeated phone calls going back to last year, so unless you are attending Town Board meetings, you are probably as in the dark as we are about what the town plans to do with its rails. Recent Town Board minutes (posted only through April 25) do show that the board has had limited discussion of railroad RFPs, but there is very little information in the minutes, and the RFPs have not been released. They do show that a company is interested in a "pedal car" tour business on the town-owned portion of rails as well. On the plus side, the town of Johnsburg responded quickly to my FOIL request for information on the employment status of a town highway worker who went to jail for burglary. The employee, Daniel Hitchcock, son of the highway superintendent by the same name, is no longer employed by the town, I was told. The town supervisor's refused to release his employment status, not saying why despite the fact that who works for a municipality is clearly public information. It's unfortunate I had to waste the town records access officer's time with a formal FOIL request in the first place. -- Don Lehman Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 A Pennsylvania school district found a way to protect transgender students rights while accommodating those who dont accept them. Photo: Jonathan Kirn/Getty Images In one of those nondecision decisions that represent the vast majority of its rulings, the Supreme Court today declined to hear an appeal from a lower-court decision in favor of a Pennsylvania school-district policy on the red-state hot-button issue of transgender bathroom use. The policy in question allowed transgender students access to the bathroom appropriate for their gender identity, while providing alternative facilities for any peers who profess to be disturbed by this practice. Politico explains: The Supreme Courts decision leaves standing the U.S. 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals unanimous ruling last year that the Pennsylvania school district can continue allowing transgender students to use bathrooms that align with their gender identity Michael Levin, counsel for the school district, said the Supreme Court recognized the case wasnt worthy of further review and understood the false narrative that is being repeated by the Plaintiffs that their privacy rights were violated. The Boyertown Area School District provides private bathrooms and locker rooms to all students who do not feel comfortable sharing such (spaces) with others, transgender or cisgender, Levin said in a statement. The school districts approach to offer separate and private bathrooms, locker rooms and private spaces to students who desire greater privacy is the common-sense approach that the Plaintiffs claim that they want. The suit was originally brought by the conservative Christian group Alliance Defending Freedom, a moniker that reflects its belief that religious freedom requires the right to discriminate against those the godly deem ungodly, typically LGBTQ folk. Arguing that transgender bathroom use violates a right to privacy is an interesting angle for those who almost certainly oppose a constitutional right to privacy for women exercising control over their own bodies in the context of abortion policy. But in any event, school districts like the one in this case that accommodate irrational fears without denying transgender students rights undercut the privacy argument decisively. This case should not be confused, however, with those involving interpretation of federal anti-discrimination laws in this area, an open question after the Trump administration reversed an Obama administration interpretation of the Title IX educational equity law as protecting transgender students. On yet another track, the 7th District Court of Appeals has held that any statute prohibiting sex discrimination should protect trans people on equal-protection grounds. These broader issues have yet to be disposed of by the Supreme Court. QUEENSBURY The owners of Angelinas Pizzeria are looking to get fed up in their new space. Jeff and Gregory Aunchman bought the property at 410 Bay Road from Peter Shabat for $650,000 last week and are planning to move from their current location at 216 Quaker Road. Jeff Aunchman said they are excited to have triple the space in the new location. They hope to open by July. Were working really hard to get everything up and going, he said. They are rebranding the restaurant as Angelinas: Fed Up, which stands for Forever Delivering Unbelievable Pizza and creating a new logo. The brothers have been interested in the space, which was formerly home to the SUNY Adirondack culinary building, for a long time because of its proximity to the college. Its a great location. We wanted to own our own building. This is a really good spot thats close to the current location, Aunchman said. We just fell in love with the building. The community college had been leasing the building until last fall, when it moved into its new space at 14 Hudson Ave. in Glens Falls. Aunchman said he enjoyed negotiating with Shabat. They are not doing extensive renovations, just some remodeling and redecorating, he said. They will bring most of their equipment and will make some upgrades. The new owners are working to obtain a liquor license. The Aunchmans have been in business for about 14 years. 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 8 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 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. LAKE GEORGE Village Mayor Robert Blais said Gov. Andrew Cuomo will not attend the grand opening ceremony Wednesday for the Charles R. Wood Park. The ceremony has been scheduled for 11 a.m. Blais had said last week that Cuomo had been invited and he had hoped that the governor would attend and share some good news of additional state funding to build the villages new $24 million-plus wastewater treatment plant. The governor is not able to come but has sent a letter, according to Blais. However, Blais remained hopeful that the state would provide some more grant funding. He said Tuesday that state officials called for a third time seeking more information about the plant, including the tax impact to local residents and businesses if the village has to bond about $17 million of the cost. The village has obtained only about $6.7 million in grant funding so far. Village officials provided the information. Lake George is under a consent order from the state Department of Environmental Conservation to replace the 1930s-era plant because it releases an excessive amount of nitrates, which can cause algal blooms that degrade the water quality of the lake. The new plant must be operational by August 2021. The public is welcome to attend the dedication ceremony. The 24-acre park, formerly Gaslight Village, was purchased from the Charles R. Wood Foundation by the Fund for Lake George, the Lake George Association, the Lake George Land Conservancy, the town and village of Lake George and Warren County about 10 years ago. The village bought out the towns interest in the property, according to a news release. The park has hosted concerts, the Adirondack Wine and Food Festival, Americade, a circus and other events. 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 0 Funny 3 Wow 1 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. GLENS FALLS Hundreds gathered in Crandall Park on Monday to Honor Those Who Never Returned the theme of this years Glens Falls-Queensbury Memorial Day Parade. That is what Memorial Day is all about never forgetting and ever honoring the valor and deeds of those who gave all, said Glens Falls Mayor Dan Hall, who served as master of ceremonies for the event. The parade kicked off in downtown Glens Falls and then traveled from Maple Street north on Glen Street to Crandall Park for a ceremony. Keynote speaker Kenneth Aldous, an attorney and Civil War enthusiast who grew up in Queensbury and now lives in Rhinebeck, urged the audience to take a moment to remember these people who sacrificed their lives so that future generations could be free. Aldous said he wanted to do a little show and tell and put on a replica Civil War uniform to speak about veterans with ties to the area. Aldous said many veterans are buried in mass graves without any special recognition, but they deserve to be honored. They may not be known to you or may be lost to history, but we should be committed to remember their history, he said. Recalling another chapter of American history, Aldous said George Washington told his troops that the fate of unborn millions rested on the soldiers of his troops. Queensbury High School student Julia Metivier, winner of the student essay contest, said over a million people have gone to war and have not come home. She singled out Kimberly Nicole Hampton, a 21-year-old from Greenville, South Carolina, who was the first female military pilot in U.S. history to be shot down and killed from hostile fire. Other people have given their life in service to the country, even if they were not in the military, including first responders such as former New York City Fire Commissioner William Feehan, who was one of the 412 emergency works killed on 9/11. On Memorial Day, we honor those who died protecting us, and realize that they are people just like us. They are people that were doing their jobs, being proud to serve their beautiful country, who didnt get to see the beauty of it when they returned, she said. The winners of the poster contest were Jaiden Mali of Queensbury and Elijah Flint of Glens Falls. Second place went to Riley Sheehan of Queensbury and Adler Palmer of Glens Falls. The grand marshals for this years parade were Karl Frank, Wayne Humburg and Robert Ovitt. Hall shared a brief biography of each man. Frank, 95, served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1945 as part of the Red Ball Express, which was the convoy system that helped supply Allied Forces and had to help clear heavy snow and ice from the roads to make the roads passable. After leaving the service, he worked in breweries in New Jersey and spent 20 years as a driver for The Sagamore resort. Humburg, lived in Whitehall in his youth and served in the U.S. Army from 1983 to 2010, including serving as a sniper squad leader in Iraq from 2003 to 2005 and a heavy weapons section leader in Afghanistan from 2009 to 2010. After leaving the military in 2010, he earned degrees in criminal justice and counseling from SUNY Adirondack and works as a licensed physical therapist. Ovitt was born and raised in Corinth. He attained the rank of corporal in the U.S. Army and was wounded in the Korean War at the Battle of Pork Chop Hill in April 1953. After military life, he served as superintendent of building and grounds for the Glens Falls City School District. Queensbury Supervisor John Strough also shared the stories of what he called three liberated ladies. Susanna (Schuster) Canavan was born in September 1936 in Bassenheim, Germany, and was among the 94,000 residents displaced when the Allied began bombing Koblenz. She later emigrated to the United States. Kathi Mastrangelo was born in the small village of Simbach am Inn in Germany. The Nazis took her home and her family had to live in a dark, dirty cellar invested with rats. The family was liberated by the U.S. Army in February 1945. Ursula Alkes was born in Darmstadt, Germany, which had been leveled by the Allies during a bombing campaign that began the night of Sept. 11, 1944. The Queensbury High School Band under the direction of David Margison provided music for the ceremony and the Glens Falls High School band also marched in the parade. Noah Bauer and Sam Rowley plaid Taps. Cub Scouts Troop 6016 led in the Pledge of Allegiance. New York State Boys Town representative Brady Stark of Queensbury High School recited the "Gettysburg Address." Also present at the ceremony were Gold Star parents Bill and Beverly Osborn. The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2475 also participated. After the ceremony, the Legion unveiled its 10th plaque with the names of veterans from Warren, Washington and northern Saratoga counties. The total number of names on these slabs is about 1,600 and growing, according to Carl Fosco, commander of American Legion Post 233. There was also a flyover from Jon Alexanders 1941 Vultee BT-15 and Bret Dunkleys 1941 Navy N3N. The Rev. Leonard Oates of the Faith Tabernacle Baptist Church, who led the invocation and benediction, perhaps summed up best who this day is honoring. They have given their lives so you and I, as well as future generations, can enjoy all the freedom that this great democracy offers. Never let us forget the hopes and dreams that they fought for, for their children and their childrens children, he 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 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. QUEENSBURY Two residents of an American Indian reservation in northern New York were arrested Tuesday morning after a traffic stop on the Northway led to the seizure of 37 pounds of marijuana, according to State Police. Police said the vehicle was stopped for speeding and changing lanes without signalling in the southbound lanes near Exit 18, and State Police determined that the occupants had marijuana. A search turned up 25 bags of marijuana that amounted to 37 pounds, which police believe the duo were in the process of delivering to Albany. Keena M. King, 34, and Kevin W. Lazore, 36, both of the Akwesasne Reservation on the Canadian border, were charged with felony criminal possession of marijuana, arraigned before Queensbury Town Justice Michael Muller and sent to Warren County Jail for lack of bail. Love 1 Funny 24 Wow 14 Sad 8 Angry 33 QUEENSBURY The SUNY Adirondack Board of Trustees on Thursday adopted a nearly $32.1 million budget, which maintains all programs, and increases tuition by 5%. Ann Marie Scheidegger, vice president for administrative services, told the board that she believes it is a good budget. We believe it demonstrates a thoughtful approach to controlling costs while maintaining the high quality learning environment that our students and teachers deserve, she said. The spending plan is an increase of $613,516, or 1.9%, from the current year. College officials are forecasting a 6.9% decline in enrollment from 2,676 full-time equivalent students in 2018-2019 to 2,492. Tuition would increase by $120 to $2,400 per semester for full-time resident students. Those rates are doubled for out-of-state students. Despite the increase, Scheidegger said the colleges tuition is among the lowest among its peers. In addition, the college is raising the technology fee to fund additional technology upgrades. Salaries and benefits were the biggest cost drivers in the budget including a $591,000 increase in benefits costs. The college has held off on filling some positions that are opening due to retirements to keep costs in check, according to Scheidegger. The college administration, faculty and staff have identified ways to reduce costs while identifying new sources of revenues, she said. The state has come up with a new funding formula and established a floor meaning that institutions would not receive any less aid than they have in the current year. The formula resulted in only an increase in state aid of about $116,000 for about $8.39 million total, according to Scheidegger. She noted that this is not a permanent aid formula. State aid makes up about 26% of the budget. Student tuition and fees represent 47%, which is among the highest percentage among its peer institutions. The college is budgeting for an increase of $200,000 in chargeback fees, which is the money that SUNY Adirondack receive from other community colleges when students outside Warren and Washington counties attend SUNY Adirondack. Revenue from chargebacks and nonresidents is budgeted at $3.9 million. The college is asking its two sponsoring counties for a 2% increase in its contribution. That would mean about $2.048 million from Warren County and $1.42 million from Washington County. Scheidegger said the sponsor contribution makes up about 11% of the colleges operating revenue which is below the average among its peers of about 15.5%. However, she said college officials understand the financial constraints faced by the counties. SUNY Adirondack is budgeting $1.12 million in miscellaneous revenue. The college is not tapping any fund balance. It is projected to have nearly $2.83 million on hand which is equivalent to about one-months operating expenditures. State officials recommend that college officials have a 2-month cushion. Both the Warren and Washington County Board of Supervisors have to sign off on the budget. The Joint Finance Committee will meet on June 11. New name In other business, the trustees approved changing the name of its Wilton campus to SUNY Adirondack Saratoga. The college had considered the name SUNY at Saratoga, but President Kristine Duffy said SUNY Saratoga rolls off the tongue better and is more expansive. We want to demonstrate that were encompassing the entire region, she said. She and John Jablonski, vice president of academic affairs attended a recent leaders orientation held at the Wilton campus to meet with Saratoga officials and promote their brand. 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 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. TICONDEROGA The Ticonderoga Health Center will soon relocate to new space within the Ticonderoga campus of University of Vermont Health Network, Elizabethtown Community Hospital. Were trying to transform health care in the Ticonderoga community, ECH President John Remillard said. Were proud of what weve accomplished. ECH is part of the University of Vermont Health Network, which includes Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital in Plattsburgh, Alice Hyde Medical Center in Malone and UVM Medical Center in Burlington. The Ticonderoga campus, formerly Moses-Ludington Hospital, recently marked the one-year anniversary of the changeover to ECH management. The Ticonderoga campus completed a $9 million construction project this year that renovated all departments. We have a new ER, labs, clinic space, chemotherapy, Remillard said. Were bringing new services and specialists to the campus. CENTERPIECE The Ticonderoga facility has a $5.7 million state grant to add cardiology and OB-GYN services and create an area for Hudson Headwaters Health Networks Ticonderoga Health Center, which will offer primary care. Primary care is centerpiece of rural medicine, Remillard said. They (Hudson Headwaters) will lease the space. This will transform the campus into a new model for rural health care. Work on the primary care facility will begin in August and is expected to take about a year. Hudson Headwaters will use the existing Ticonderoga Health Center on Racetrack Road for other purposes once it makes the move, Remillard said. Hudson Headwaters is based in Warrensburg and operates other health centers around the North Country. AIMING FOR TIMELY ECH Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Clauss said Moses-Ludington Hospital did a wonderful job for the community for many years. The challenge is that no matter where they (patients) present, they receive the same level of emergency care. He said some cardiology procedures, such as administering clot dissolving drugs, are only effective if done in a timely manner, and thats what theyre aiming for at the Ticonderoga campus. Patients are now treated with interventional cardiology, a branch of cardiology that deals specifically with the catheter-based treatment of structural heart diseases. And Clauss said they want to be able to make one call to determine who has the level of care needed and use air or ground transport to get the patient there. The facility will also seek accreditation as acute-stroke ready, with patient information transmitted to a UVM Medical Center stroke specialist for evaluation and guidance. NEW ED STAFF The Emergency Department at the Ticonderoga Campus sees about 6,500 patients a year, Clauss said. Were in the process of having an emergency physician on duty, he said. The goal is 24/7 coverage. The ED has sometimes been covered by physician assistants in the past, but on July 1, the first class of six medical school graduates in emergency medicine will arrive to staff the emergency room. Its a very sought-after specialty, Remillard said. The Ticonderoga Campus has about 80 employees at present, he said, down a few from when ECH took over, with the attrition mostly due to elimination of duplicated administrative positions. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Stefanik takes pass on newspaper story Boos to Rep. Elise Stefanik for again failing to respond to another media outlet. When the Washington Post asked key congressional leaders and members of the judiciary and intelligence committees of which Stefanik is a member whether they had read the Mueller report, Stefanik was among 25 Republicans who did not respond. Rep. Stefanik has regularly touted her transparency, yet she has a track record of not always talking directly to reporters, including The Post-Star. EPA proposing cuts to important research Boos to the Environmental Protection Agency for proposing a $300 million cut in its budget as part of an effort to eliminate research projects credited with discovering problems that pesticides, air pollution and other hazards pose to children. This is exactly the type of work the EPA should be doing to keep us and our children healthy. Boat washing station opens on Northway Bravos to the state Department of Environmental Conservation and the state Department of Transportation for incorporating a boat-washing station into the newly refurbished rest stop on the Northway. The two state agencies worked with multiple local officials and environmental groups to make the station a reality. It provides visiting boaters with a convenient option for getting their vessels prepared for launching in Adirondack lakes. Federal government fails to protect veterans Boos to the federal government for its continued failure to acknowledge the risks it put military personnel in when it assigned them to Pacific islands where nuclear bomb testing had taken place. These veterans have suffered an increased risk for cancer and actual cancer in many cases yet the government has not done anything to help them. The time is long overdue. Queensbury gets good deal on insurance Bravos to the town of Queensbury and the broker it hired to negotiate a better deal with its insurance provider. What started out as an 8.5 percent increase was concluded with a deal for a 0.5 percent reduction. Maybe the town should give out the phone number of its broker to other communities. New dinosaur attractions opens Bravos to Magic Forest amusement park for the addition of a new dinosaur attraction this past weekend. By the reaction of the children in attendance at the preview, the new attraction could quickly be a destination in the Lake George area. Magic Forest has always been a great place for the little ones not ready for the big rollercoasters down the road, and the dinosaurs will broaden that appeal. Classmate steps up to recognize veteran Bravos to Henry Bates Jr. for his continued efforts to secure a white marble gravestone for a classmate from their time at Cambridge Union School. Both graduated in 1944 in the middle of World War II and both enlisted in the Navy after graduation. His classmate died in 1980 and was buried in Cambridge Woodlands Cemetery with no service and no grave marker. When Bates found out about it, he spent the next five years working to get a grave marker from the federal government. Bates also got help from the Cambridge village clerk and Rep. Elise Stefaniks office. It all came together this past week and the 92-year-old Bates attended a ceremony at the graveside with the new headstone for his classmate Leo A. Vuori. Post-Star editorials represent the opinion of The Post-Stars editorial board, which consists of Interim Publisher Brian Corcoran, Editor Ken Tingley, Projects Editor Will Doolittle and citizen representatives Jean Aurilio, Connie Bosse and Barbara Sealy. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 What about the change in unemployment, the many jobs available now, better wages, the less number of people on food stamps, the change in regulations strangling farms and businesses, the surge on Wall Street increasing the 401Ks for people's retirements, the removal of the mandatory requirement for health insurance or face a penalty, conservative judges appointed, our new world leadership in oil production, or the new income tax laws. The taxpayers were tired of the do nothing, uncooperative politicians in Washington and, yes, Trump stirred things up, but it's about time someone did. If the world is wondering about our unorthodox president, I say keep them wondering and guessing. Our country has been taken for granted long enough by too many other nations, China especially. Americans don't have to guess about Donald Trump, as they know when someone is truly supporting them, trying to keep his promises made to the people who elected him. He doesn't answer to any political machine, paid TV stations or anchors, biased newspapers and reporters, or supposed Hollywood experts, try as they might to convince us all of how terrible he is. Also, shame on the press who ignore our First Lady Melania Trump, a beautiful, kind, intelligent woman who is never publicized for her good causes, ideas or accomplishments, just because she is married to Donald Trump. Michelle Obama's face was in the news all the time. 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 Trump attack dog Rudy Giuliani. Photo: Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post/Getty Images During the 2016 presidential campaign, Rudy Giuliani emerged as one of Donald Trumps most loyal and obedient attack dogs, never passing up an opportunity to debase himself if it meant supporting Trump. It was a role that suited the former New York City mayor, whose own political ambitions seem to have died with his 2008 presidential bid. After Trump won, Giuliani was passed over for a Cabinet appointment but remained an unofficial defender of the president. Then, in April 2018, the gig became official, with Giuliani joining Trumps legal team. Immediately, he predicted that the Mueller probe would end in a couple of weeks. Eleven months later, the special counsels report was delivered to Attorney General William Barr. In the interim, Giuliani did much of what he did before joining Trumps team, making frequent TV appearances and defending Trump with statements that had some questioning his sanity. But now that the Mueller saga is over, whats an attack dog to do? This ones getting back to barking: pot-stirring around Joe Biden and Ukraine, for instance. But hes eager to do more, according to a new report from Politico: Done sparring with Robert Mueller, Donald Trumps personal attorney is now training his attacks on the presidents reelection rivals. Giuliani plans to meet with the president and his campaign in the coming weeks to discuss pivoting to this new role, which he expects will also include making policy and political connections for the 2020 effort. Well see where they have holes and where they need help, Giuliani told POLITICO. Im available to do a lot of it. This new role awaits Giuliani even though Trump advisers and campaign hands think hes a headache-causing loose cannon and keep saying as much to the media. In the Politico story, one anonymous Trump campaign adviser readily admitted that Giulianis faults can cause problems for others around the president. Then the person said, I think he has the potential to be very effective in certain circumstances. He also has the potential to be unhelpful at times. Later in the article, the adviser lauded Giuliani as a great warm-up act who can also get sloppy with details. Another anonymous campaign adviser admitted that Giuliani will do the kind of dirty work other campaign surrogates wont, which makes his mistakes tolerable. We view him as a necessary component to the overall picture, the adviser told Politico. Then theres longtime Trump adviser Michael Caputo, whose endorsement of Giuliani was not exactly ringing: I imagine not all of Rudys ideas are brilliant ones, but the vast majority are and Ill take the good with the bad. These kinds of comments about Giuliani have been coming from inside Trumpworld for months. In January, a White House aide told Politico, Handling Rudys fuck-ups takes more than one man. Around the same time, the Washington Post reported that White House communications staffers have grown frustrated with Giuliani and privately mock some of his interviews. Giuliani has, for his part, dismissed the criticism. They just do it behind my back, he told Politico. HUD administrator Lynne Patton. Photo: Photo by Ida Mae Astute/ABC via Getty Images Considering brain surgeon Ben Carsons lack of relevant policy experience upon his nomination as Housing and Urban Development Secretary in 2017, he has managed to stay relatively under the radar, as other scandal-plagued cabinet heads have resigned or caught some watered-down version of the presidents catch phrase. But, if the last week at HUD is any indication, that run of good fortune may be running out. In an appearance last Tuesday before the Democratic-led House Financial Services Committee, Carson mistook a boilerplate real estate term for an Oreo cookie a slipup that, although inherently harmless, reminded the viral audience of Carsons inexperience in his appointed field. And this week, department official Lynne Patton found herself under a level of scrutiny normally above the paygrade of a HUD regional administrator. Defending Carson from his post-gaffe criticism, Patton retweeted a message that praised the HUD director and made a joke at the expense of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. She then posted on Facebook on May 22 that her comment may be a Hatch violation. It may not be. Either way, I honestly dont care anymore. Patton who may have previously violated the act for displaying official Trump campaign merch in her office returned to Twitter to defend herself: What part about I dont give a shit dont you understand? pic.twitter.com/YHkGEwU2PY Lynne Patton (@LynnePatton) May 27, 2019 Signed into law by FDR, the Hatch Act prohibits executive branch officials from publicly endorsing elected officials; it is designed to prevent an administration from using federal employees for its own political gain. Employees of Trumps executive branch have had a hard time following the law. In November 2018, federal investigators determined that six administration officials had defied the act on Twitter by using government accounts to share personal opinions. The administrations most public violations of the act were committed by Kellyanne Conway in 2017, when she advocated on television for Republican Senate candidate Roy Moore, who was accused of sexually assaulting underage girls. Pattons self-reported possible Hatch violation is not as clear cut as prior Trump administration breaches of the act. The HUD administrator used her personal accounts, and did not endorse a candidate: Her boss is a Cabinet appointee who has already announced he intends to leave after Trumps first term. (Mocking Ocasio-Cortez may be another matter, however.) But Patton, a Trump family event planner with no policy experience prior to her appointment, shouldnt expect any formal reprimand, considering past treatments of Hatch violators within the administration. After a federal investigative agency recommended appropriate disciplinary action for Kellyanne Conways TV support of Roy Moore, the White House went the opposite route and defended its high-profile counselor. In this and my next "Voices" columns, well look first at some challenges faced by those of us living in Illinois, and then at some issues faced increasingly by those abiding in Iowa. Each will examine how actions or circumstances, particularly at the state level, affect those of us here in our bi-state region. As to Illinois, among the greatest challenges we face come from two provisions of our state constitution. One prohibits a progressive income tax (Article 9, Section 3). This confines us to a flat tax similar to that of a handful of other states, and deprives us of the revenues realized by a progressive income tax, such as Iowa and 33 other states as well as the federal government already possess. This works a particular disservice to our schools, as it forces higher property taxes to compensate for the lack of state income tax support to education. Because of the unpopularity of property taxes, this has also prompted some to relocate to Iowa even though Iowa has higher income taxes, and also taxes retirement income which Illinois generally does not. The second constitutional hindrance arises from the prohibition on reducing pension benefits of state, local governments or school districts (Article 13, Section 5). William Grothus recent letter in this paper (May 21) says Democrats are "resistance experts." But since the Mueller report came out, Trump and the Republicans are the champions of resistance. Led by the attorney generals' false statements, Trump and the GOP now defy every subpoena from the House of Representatives. Congress wants to talk to the people that Robert Mueller talked to. It is true, most people will not read the 400-page report. Those who have read it, say it clearly indicates Trump obstructed justice many times. Trump believes he is above the law. He will not let his taxes be shown. Subpoenas be damned is his cry. Why is he so afraid of letting the public see his taxes? If he has nothing to hide, why is he stonewalling? Could it be he's received millions of dollars from Russia? Or has he been laundering money like his campaign manager, Paul Manafort? Maybe Trump wants his taxes concealed because he's not as rich as he says he is? Reports recently say he lost $1 billion from the middle-1980's to 1990's. Last week I wrote about the failure of LB 289 to advance. This was our best chance of lowering property taxes this year. Since then, another bill, LB 183, has also failed to advance. This bill was a stripped-down version of LB 289 that would have delivered a much smaller amount of property tax relief. The vote was 23 Yes, 7 No, and 16 Present Not Voting. Three of my colleagues were excused. In this example, a yes vote was a vote to lower property taxes. 33 votes were needed. In the meantime, LB 720 called the ImagiNE Nebraska Act has also failed to advance. This bill would replace the Nebraska Advantage Act. It is a business incentive bill. It starts with $125 million in spending, and grows at three percent a year for the next ten years. The vote was 30 Yes, 18 No, 1 Excused. A no vote on this motion was also a vote to lower property taxes. Again, 33 votes were needed. I was the excused senator for this vote, because I was among a number of Purple Heart recipients asked to participate in an Honor Flight to our nations Capitol. I would have voted No with my eighteen colleagues who opposed the motion. The 18 senators who voted no on the motion to stop debate on LB 720 actually support economic incentives for business. Most do not oppose LB 720. These 18 senators know that there is a lot of support for this bill and it will easily pass if it ever makes it to a vote. Stopping this bill by failing to end the filibuster (33 votes) will now compel senators interested in business incentives to work with senators who want property tax relief. A majority of senators want both. For the first time this session, I believe conditions have finally been set to bring senators together on these two very important issues. It is clear from the votes on these two bills that the fate of property tax relief and business incentives are now joined at the hip. Either they both pass, or they both fail. One cannot advance without the other. This is a very good thing. Now another important issue hangs in the balance. In the Army we used to call this being properly motivated. In the few remaining days of this session, I hope senators leading both of these efforts will come together and craft a single compromise amendment that will address both of these important issues. After the previous attempts to pass property tax relief have all failed, these 18 senators have given us one last chance. I remain cautiously optimistic we will still get some kind of property tax relief done this session. Instead of adjourning early, we should spend every available minute on negotiating an agreement that addresses both high property taxes and other economic development needs. That is better than a special session, but we must act now! Please contact my office with any comments, questions or concerns. Email me at tbrewer@leg.ne.gov, mail a letter to Sen. Tom Brewer, Room #1423, P.O. Box 94604, Lincoln, NE 68509, or call us at (402) 471-2628. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Every year, the South Dakota Rock and Roll Music Association Hall of Fame inducts a number of musicians, DJs, promoters, and venues, that have played a part in the music scene of our state. For Vesta Wells-Johnson, having her band Choozy Music as one of this years inductees was a moment she is eternally grateful for. I know so many people who are already in there and to be in that kind of company is such an honor. We had a really good band at the time and to be recognized for our work was really special, she said. Choozy Music was one of 18 nominees in eight categories honored at the 2019 ceremony, held April 12-13 in Sioux Falls. The group got its start in Rapid City in 1974. Original members Wells-Johnson, Will Prines, Tom Sitzler and Bob Stickel played pop/rock chart hits that were easy to dance to and entertaining. The band performed everything from classic rock, oldies, pop, blues and country in clubs, dance halls, colleges, street dances and events in 15 states across the country. The award ceremony was not only a chance to be honored for their musical contributions, but also served as a reunion for the band, who had not performed together in nearly four decades. Wells-Johnson said the group had just one rehearsal prior to their performance, but when they took the stage, it felt like no time had passed. Performing at the ceremony inspired the band to plan a reunion tour. Everything just fell into place so easily. To have all of us together again was pretty exceptional. We're talking about getting the old band back together and maybe playing half a dozen dates a year. Our guitar player lives in Wyoming and our bass player lives in Minnesota, so we'll probably get something between Rapid City and Sioux Falls to make it a little easier to get together, she said. Although Wells-Johnson does not perform as much as she did when she was with the band, she is still in awe at how the music scene in the Black Hills has evolved. I've always said that we have so much talent in the Black Hills, and we have always had such a variety when it comes to different genres. The misconception is that its just country-western and that is so far from the truth. We have so many really good musicians in all genres out here and we've got some great songwriters, she said. Her advice to anyone wanting to break into the music industry is to meet and talk to as many musicians as you can. Listen to them and take comments from people who've been in the business a long time. If you're a songwriter or a performer, stay true to what is you because even the professionals were told no a lot of times. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. 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. In less than four years, dozens of people, including tribal employees, tribal executives and out-of-state business owners, have stolen millions of dollars from Native American nations and organizations in South Dakota. They're caught by whistleblowers or local law enforcement, investigated by federal law enforcement, and then prosecuted by the U.S. Attorneys Office in South Dakota through the Guardians Project, which brings multiple federal agencies together to fight corruption and financial crimes against Native communities, and encourages citizens to report such activity. South Dakota launched the project in December 2015 after it began in 2011 in Montana. So far, the South Dakota project has investigated 60 cases, charged 53 people or organizations and landed 42 convictions, according to Aileen Crawford, spokeswoman with the U.S. Attorneys Office in South Dakota. Taken together, the cases involve stealing millions of dollars from all nine reservations across the state. People and organizations have been charged with "myriad federal offenses," Crawford said. They include wire, mail and bank fraud, theft and embezzlement from tribes and tribal organizations such as casinos, and larceny. The program has also targeted outsiders who scam tribes. An Idaho man and his company pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy for stealing $54,000 from the Oglala Sioux Tribe by defrauding an employee at Oglala Lakota College. The U.S. Attorney's Office learns about possible Project Guardians cases when someone calls 911 just "like any other criminal case," Crawford said. "On a weekly basis, this office and the participating agencies learn about cases from whistleblowers, through concerned citizens and by leaders reporting misconduct taking place in tribal entities." But the U.S. Attorney's Office also does special outreach, Crawford said. "Working to enhance communication between that of the public and citizens and that of this office and the federal investigating agencies is a big piece of the project's success," she said. Crawford said staff visit reservations, reach out to tribal governments, and create press releases so citizens know they can report possible criminal activity to their local law enforcement or a federal agency. For more information about the Guardians Project, call the U.S. Attorney's Office at 605-330-4400. 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 1 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. A second person has died from injuries suffered in a two-vehicle crash earlier this month in rural Pennington County. James Broderick, 71, had sustained what authorities at the time called serious, non-life-threatening injuries in the May 7 crash on S.D. Highway 79, about 5 miles south of Rapid City. Broderick was taken to the Rapid City hospital. He died on May 23, according to a Tuesday news release from the South Dakota Department of Public Safety. He was from Rapid City. The crash occurred at 8:14 a.m. near the intersection of Spring Creek Road and State Highway 79. A photograph posted by the Pennington County Sheriff's Office showed a vehicle on fire in wet and foggy conditions. Hannah Drake, 26, was the other crash victim. Drake, driving a Honda SUV, was making a left-hand turn from Spring Creek Road onto Highway 79 when she pulled in front of a southbound Ford minivan driven by Broderick, the press release says. The two vehicles collided, and the Honda became engulfed in flames. Officials said Drake was unable to get out of the burning vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene. She was also from Rapid City. The Highway Patrol is investigating. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Consequences including evacuations, road closures and a railroad washout cascaded from the unrelenting rain that doused the already soggy western South Dakota region on Monday and Tuesday. The Rapid City Fire Department evacuated people Tuesday morning from the low-lying Melody Lane area of Rapid Valley, situated between South Valley Drive and Elk Vale Road, near Rapid Creek and a pair of irrigation ditches. Flooding in the neighborhood was threatening multiple homes, including numerous trailer houses. South Valley Drive was topped by the creek and was closed between Orchard Lane and Terra Street. The Red Cross established a reception center and potential shelter for evacuees in the First Wesleyan Church at 3040 Marlin Drive, just south of the flooded area. As of Tuesday afternoon, four people were at the reception center. One of them was Justin Ferrer, whose trailer house was surrounded by brown-colored floodwater up to the front steps. The water had not entered the trailer, and Ferrer was hoping it would go no higher. "I've lived in and out of that area for 11 years," Ferrer said, "and I've seen flooding there, but not like this." Downtown Rapid City received 0.94 inch of rain Monday, according to the National Weather Service, and another 1.37 inches by midday Tuesday. The partial Tuesday total was already a downtown Rapid City record for May 28, besting the old mark of 0.98 inch set in 1956. As of early afternoon Tuesday with rain still falling Rapid City's May precipitation total was 7.31 inches, which was 3.59 inches above normal. The rain was expected to continue Tuesday evening before diminishing overnight. Slight chances of showers and thunderstorms remain in the forecast for the rest of the week, but Thursday, Friday and Saturday are expected to be partly to mostly sunny. Beyond Rapid City, the Pennington County Sheriff's Office said many areas of the county were experiencing severe flooding Tuesday. The sheriff's office said it was closing Lower Spring Creek Road near Hart Ranch on Tuesday afternoon because of high water. A tweet from the sheriff's office showed water nearly touching the bottom of a bridge at Mulligan Mile, leading into a housing development. Elsewhere in the county, creeks in Hill City and Keystone were running out of their banks and onto roads and bridges, and multiple driveways were submerged, the sheriff's office said. Many of the bridges in Keystone were nearly under water. Sections of Main Street were down to one lane. Grizzly Gulch Road was flooded over, and an alternate egress route was located and the bridge was flagged. Part of Highway 16A near the Powder House Inn had water over the road. Because of the flooding throughout the Keystone area, the sheriff's office advised anyone traveling to Mount Rushmore to use caution. At K Bar S Lodge near Keystone, rushing water caused a road to collapse, leaving no way for vehicles to get in or out. The sheriff's office said it was working with the manager to get any needed medications to the lodge's staff and guests, but no evacuations from the lodge were being conducted as of early Tuesday afternoon. In the Hill City area, Old Hill City Road had water over the roadway in many places from Kemps Camp to Keystone, a section where the road was closed and no travel was advised. Rocks were falling from the hillside, the sheriff's office said. Motorists were urged to avoid driving over standing water on roads or bridges and to slow down and be aware of the potential for hydroplaning. At Custer State Park, officials said creeks and streams were running uncharacteristically high and fast. Visitors were urged to be alert and aware of changing conditions. Oak Draw and Fisherman Flats roads in the park were closed, as was the Grace Coolidge Walk-In Fishing Area. The Wildlife Loop Road was closed at 5 p.m. with the expectation that it would reopen in the morning. Black Hills National Forest officials urged the public to use caution on wet forest roads, many with soft shoulders and standing water. Forest officials said the public should not drive around barricaded or gated roads, which may have been closed due to flooding or for other safety reasons. Dead trees and live trees with weak roots standing in saturated soil can fall without warning, Forest Service officials said. Rocks on slippery roadside slopes may come loose and roll down onto roads, creating an unexpected hazard. A previously announced closure order remains in effect for the entire Black Hills National Forest Motorized Trail System which is typically frequented by ATVers in both Wyoming and South Dakota. Forest personnel are checking the trails daily to assess conditions. Additionally, several recreation areas in the Black Hills National Forest were affected by wet conditions: Spring Creek Picnic Ground, the South Boat Ramp at Pactola Reservoir, Grizzly Bear Campground, Willow Creek Horse Camp sites 4 and 5, and Box Elder Forks Campground were all closed due to high water or wet conditions. The North Boat Ramp at Pactola remained open, but docks were pulled. On Box Elder Creek Road near Nemo, a Forest Service crew built a berm Tuesday to divert water off the road. Flooding problems extended beyond the Black Hills to the plains of western South Dakota. Near Philip, the Rapid City, Pierre, & Eastern Railroad shared a picture on Facebook of a large embankment that washed out from under a rail line because of Bad River flooding. Farther east, in Lyman County, no travel was advised on county roads because of several inches of recent rain, which flooded areas in and around Kennebec and Presho. In Rapid City on Tuesday afternoon, officials were receiving reports of sanitary sewer system overflows. The overflows can lift lids off manholes, causing water to bubble up over flooded water like a fountain or geyser. City officials advised the public not to drive over or through those areas and not to recreate in them. Dave Van Cleave, superintendent of the City's Water Reclamation Division, said the overflows occur when an overabundance of water infiltrates the sanitary sewer system. City officials also reminded the public that if they use a sump pump to clear their basements or crawl spaces of excess groundwater, they should not pump the discharge into their home's sanitary sewer system. Sump pump discharge should be directed to the grass or to the curb and the stormwater drainage system. Anyone encountering a manhole sewer issue should contact the City's Water Reclamation Division at (605) 394-4174, the City's Utility Maintenance Division at (605) 394-4163 or call after hours to (605) 394-4160. City officials said they were also receiving calls from people concerned about the citys detention ponds filling with water, but a news release from the city said there were no concerns about breaches or overflows at any of the citys 174 detention ponds. The ponds are designed to fill up with storm water and slowly release it. If anyone does notice an overflow or a breach at one of the ponds, Van Cleave said they should contact the City's Water Reclamation Division at (605) 394-4174. Rapid City parks officials were advising no travel Tuesday on the city's bike path along Rapid Creek, where multiple sections of the path were affected by flooding. City officials also advised the public not to attempt crossing any flooded areas. Contact Seth Tupper at seth.tupper@rapidcityjournal.com You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 2 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. Brain stimulation speeds up visual learning and recovery A combination of visual training and a recently developed brain stimulation technique boosts learning in healthy adults and cortically blind patients, according to research published in JNeurosci. Lorella Battelli at the IIT-Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia and collaborators Krystel Huxlin and Duje Tadin at the University of Rochester demonstrate enhanced learning in healthy men and women with only 10 days of training. Transcranial random noise stimulation of early visual areas resulted in twice as much improvement on a visual motion task compared to other stimulation techniques or training alone. Surprisingly, the study found this enhanced learning persists for at least six months. By extending their findings to patients who suffered a stroke or traumatic brain injury affecting their visual cortex, the researchers suggest this safe and painless two-pronged approach could lead to faster visual recovery and improved quality of life for this underserved patient population. ### Manuscript title: Boosting Learning Efficacy With Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation in Intact and Brain-Damaged Humans* *A preprint of this manuscript has been posted on bioRxiv Please contact media@sfn.org for full-text PDF and to join SfN's journals media list. About JNeurosci JNeurosci, the Society for Neuroscience's first journal, was launched in 1981 as a means to communicate the findings of the highest quality neuroscience research to the growing field. Today, the journal remains committed to publishing cutting-edge neuroscience that will have an immediate and lasting scientific impact, while responding to authors' changing publishing needs, representing breadth of the field and diversity in authorship. About The Society for Neuroscience The Society for Neuroscience is the world's largest organization of scientists and physicians devoted to understanding the brain and nervous system. The nonprofit organization, founded in 1969, now has nearly 37,000 members in more than 90 countries and over 130 chapters worldwide. This story has been published on: 2019-05-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Photo: Carl Court/Getty Images Around 7:45 a.m. on Tuesday morning in Kawasaki, Japan, an assailant wielding two knives killed two and injured at least 17 people waiting at a bus stop in the Tokyo suburb. One child, reported to be 11 years old, and one adult victim, have died. The police report that the attacker also died of a self-inflicted injury. The Attack The attack took place at a bus stop where children, reportedly between the ages of 6 and 7, waited for a ride to Caritas elementary school, the only Catholic school in Kawasaki, a suburb about 45 minutes south of Tokyo. Toshichika Ishii, a 57-year-old man who spoke to the New York Times, was sitting on a park bench near the site of the attack when he heard a child yell, Im scared. He also heard the attacker shouting, Im going to kill you. Japans NHK national television, citing police, said that a man held a knife in each hand as he approached the bus stop and started slashing at children. One witness told the station that the man attempted to make his way onto a bus. A father who had come to pick up his daughter in the second-grade told the Times that he just received a standardized alert asking us to pick up our children and that there was no reason given in the message. The attack occurred on the last day of a Japenese visit by President Trump. On behalf of the first lady and myself, I want to take a moment to send our prayers and sympathy to the victims of the stabbing attack this morning in Tokyo, Trump said while visiting a Japanese aircraft carrier. All Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and for their families. The Victims Police have named the girl who was killed as 11-year-old Hanako Kuribayashi. The adult who was killed was 39-year-old Satoshi Oyama, the father of a first-grader and a Foreign Ministry official. According to the Caritas school director Tetsuro Saito, all 17 children who were stabbed were girls; most were elementary students. The Alleged Attacker The suspect is reportedly a 51-year-old man, who had knives in both hands as he attacked the crowd. The man reportedly stabbed himself in the neck, and died after being taken to a hospital, according to Japan Today. Though Japan has a low rate of violent crime, the country faced a similar mass casualty event in 2016 when a knife-wielding man claimed he wanted to kill disabled people attacked a facility where he had worked, killing 19 and wounding 26. This post has been updated. Spring has sprung, and its time to think about the great outdoors and its resources. I would argue that the most important natural resource is water. Without water, we humans will die pretty quickly. And without clean water, we face what can be a more insidious fate chronic health problems. Here in the Black Hills, this discussion is not abstract, and mining is not a partisan issue. Its important to everyone in a semi-arid region where most of our major drinking water aquifers and river systems are threatened by mining. Gloomy? Consider this. All three of the water sources that Rapid City uses Rapid Creek, the Minnelusa Aquifer, and the Madison Aquifer are downstream from gold projects in the central Black Hills. There has been exploratory drilling near Rochford and Pe Sla this year, and a second company is looking for a big strike at the inlet to Pactola Lake. When it rains or snows, both areas drain into Rapid Creek. A School of Mines graduate and former mining executive says that if there was a mining spill into Rapid Creek near Rochford during a high runoff period, it would reach Pactola in 29 to 36 minutes. And mining spills are not unusual. Modern gold mining uses cyanide to leach the gold out of the surrounding rock. In Colorado and Arizona in 2015, a gold mine spill shut down tourism, city water, water wells, and agriculture. The impacts were felt for 150 miles downstream. Not a plus for boaters, fishers, or the $1.6 billion in annual tourism revenue in the Black Hills and Badlands. There have been two Superfund sites (the nations most contaminated places) that were gold mines in the northern Black Hills, the Homestake Mine and the Gilt Edge Mine. At the Gilt Edge Mine, as at many other abandoned gold mines, the state and federal governments cannot control acid leakage. The cost for ongoing clean-up at this one mine is estimated to be $200 million. City elected officials have, for the most part, nodded their heads to agree theres an issue and done nothing. No resolutions in opposition to gold projects in our drinking water. No statements denouncing the companies plans. No campaign rhetoric. Our most important natural resource faces an immediate threat, and they need to get active now. County elected officials passed a resolution and clearly understand the issue, but we need them to do more. Insure that the new Comprehensive Plan and the upcoming hard rock mining ordinance include a ban on mining in municipal water sources. Counties have power in this situation and we need them to exercise it. Lets not fool ourselves. There are two known gold companies that have applied to the Forest Service for permits to explore (the Forest Service says there are two more operations that have applied for permission to explore, but theyre keeping their identities and locations secret). But were not just talking exploration here. One company, Mineral Mountain Resources, has over 7500 acres of mining claims and says it wants to dig another Homestake mine. The other, F3 Gold, has almost 2500 mining claims and says it just wants to explore. But if they strike gold, they will likely sell to the highest bidder. So we dont know what outfit might end up mining in the central Black Hills. Lets start taking protection of our precious water resources seriously. For our economy. For our health. For our recreation. For our future. Lilias Jones Jarding has a Ph.D. from Colorado State University. Her specialty is environmental policy, and her research focuses on energy policy and on tribal-federal-state interactions around natural resources. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 WASHINGTON | Difficulties with Iran will recur regularly, like the oscillations of a sine wave, and the recent crisis if such it was, or is illustrates persistent U.S. intellectual and institutional failures, starting with this: The Trump administration's assumption, and that of many in Congress, is that if the president wants to wage war against a nation almost the size of Mexico (and almost four times larger than Iraq) and with 83 million people (more than double that of Iraq), there is no constitutional hindrance to him acting unilaterally. In April, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was pressed in a Senate hearing to pledge that the administration would not regard the 2001 authorization for the use of military force against al-Qaida and other non-state actors responsible for 9/11 as authorization, 18 years later, for war against Iran. Pompeo laconically said he would "prefer to just leave that to lawyers." Many conservatives who preen as "originalists" when construing all the Constitution's provisions other than the one pertaining to war powers are unimpressed by the Framers' intention that Congress should be involved in initiating military force in situations other than repelling sudden attacks. The Economist, which is measured in its judgments and sympathetic to America, tartly referred to the supposed evidence of Iran's intentions to attack U.S. forces, allies or "interests" as "suspiciously unspecific." Such skepticism, foreign and domestic, reflects 16-year-old memories of certitudes about Iraq's weapons of mass destruction: remember Secretary of State Colin Powell spending days at the CIA receiving assurances about the evidence. There also are concerns about the impetuosity of a commander in chief who vows that military conflict would mean "the official end" of Iran, whatever that means. U.S. policy makes easing economic sanctions against Iran contingent on Iran doing 12 things, most of which (e.g., halting development of ballistic missiles, withdrawing from Syria, ending support for allied groups) it almost certainly will not do. This U.S. policy is congruent with U.S. disregard of this truth: Any nation, however prostrate, poor or ramshackle, that ardently wants nuclear weapons can acquire them. Just four years after Hiroshima, the Soviet Union, which had been laid to waste by World War II, became a nuclear power. China was an impoverished peasant society in 1964 when it detonated a nuclear weapon. Pakistan's per capita income was $470 in 1998 when it joined the nuclear club. In the more than a decade since North Korea acquired nuclear weapons, U.S. policy has pronounced this "unacceptable." But U.S. behavior has been to accept it while unfurling the tattered flag of arms control hoping to talk North Korea into giving up what it has devoted three decades to developing. Fifteen years ago, Condoleezza Rice, then George W. Bush's national security adviser, said that an abstraction (the "international community") would not "allow the Iranians to develop a nuclear weapon." Allow? In 2012, President Obama said: "Iran's leaders should understand that I do not have a policy of containment. I have a policy to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon." If probably when that policy fails, we shall have a policy of containment, or a major war. Trump's national-security apparatus might include a plucky cohort of regime changers who, undaunted by 18 discouraging years (Afghanistan, Iraq), cling to the fatal conceit that U.S. policies, such as sanctions, can manipulate the internal dynamics of societies such as Iran's. In any case, today's president is, in one respect, like his predecessor: Obama denied that hundreds of U.S. air strikes that killed hundreds in Libya and helped to destroy a regime constituted involvement in "hostilities." Trump recently vetoed a congressional resolution that would have terminated U.S. involvement with Saudi Arabia and its allies in the war in Yemen, by the terms of the 1973 War Powers Resolution. It forbids the "introduction" of U.S. forces into "hostilities" for more than 90 days without congressional authorization. It defines "introduction" to include the assignment of U.S. military "to command, coordinate, participate in the movement of, or accompany the ... military forces of any foreign country or government when such military forces are engaged ... in hostilities." The U.S. military is providing intelligence, logistical support and, for a time, occasional in-flight refueling of Saudi bombers. This certainly constitutes involvement in the commanding, coordinating and movement of military forces. This is similarly certain: Whatever the U.S. does to Iran militarily will be decided unilaterally by this president. But his predecessor, and today's Congress and previous Congresses, will be implicated in the absence of restraint by laws or norms. George Will is a columnist for the Washington Post. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Hundreds of men across the U.S. are signing up with lawyers to sue the Boy Scouts for damages related to sex abuse they claim to have suffered The Montana Supreme Court has picked Sheila Stearns, the former state Commissioner of Higher Education, as the fifth member and chair of the commission that will redraw state legislative districts and possibly split Montana in half if the state gains a second congressional district after the 2020 U.S. Census. The court made the decision when the Montana Districting and Apportionment Commission could not decide on its fifth member after soliciting applications from the public. The fifth commissioner and chair will play a critical role in resolving disputes between the four other commissioners, two of whom were appointed by Democrats in the state Legislature and two appointed by Republicans. The other commissioners are Jeff Essmann, appointed by Senate Majority Leader Fred Thomas, R-Stevensville; Joe Lamson, appointed by Senate Minority Leader Jon Sesso, D-Butte; Dan Stusek, appointed by House Majority Leader Brad Tschida, R-Missoula; and Kendra Miller, appointed by House Minority Leader Casey Schreiner, D-Great Falls. Essmann, a former state representative from Billings who attended the court's meeting Tuesday, had called for more time to allow public comment on the court's suggestions, which also included former U.S. Magistrate Judge Carolyn Ostby, of Billings. "There is no need for haste in your decision," Essmann said, noting the commission will not start its work in earnest until the fall and that census results will not be available for another 22 months. "We have some time to use a rigorous process and allow meaningful participation." Though Justice Laurie McKinnon made a motion to allow for a longer process and more public comment, the court did not approve the suggestion and then selected Stearns. McKinnon and Justice Beth Baker voted for Ostby, but both said they supported Stearns as well. Baker called for gender equality on the board, which after Stearns' appointment has two women and three men. Justice Dirk Sandefur suggested Stearns during the meeting. He praised her resume, saying he thought Stearns would be an ideal nonpartisan leader. McKinnon asked if Stearns had experience as a mediator, and Chief Justice Mike McGrath said he viewed the higher education commissioner post as "the hardest position in terms of resolving difficult, hard-pressed decisions." Stearns held the job from 2003-2012. Stearns also served as interim president of the University of Montana from late 2016 to early 2018. She has also been the head of the university's Alumni Association and University Relations. The Glendive native has several degrees from UM, including a bachelor's in English and history, as well as a doctorate in educational administration and supervisions. McGrath opposed extending the process, saying other commission members did not undergo the same scrutiny that an extended comment period might allow for the names put forward by the court Tuesday. McGrath said changing the process could also open it up to politicization. Stearns did not apply when the commission solicited applications. In a May 13 meeting, the two Republicans and two Democrats could not decide on a chair because of concerns about partisanship, triggering the court to make the selection. After the meeting, Essmann said he hopes Stearns will be a "neutral arbiter" and that he was disappointed the court did not allow for more comment. The court has picked the fifth member of the commission, which meets every 10 years with the U.S. Census cycle, almost every time since the 1970s after members could not agree on their chairperson. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 National Trails Day will be celebrated on June 1 with hikes and trail clean-up at seven Montana State Parks. Billings area Pryor Creek hike at Chief Plenty Coups State Park 11 a.m.-noon Enjoy a family oriented guided hike along Pryor Creek to learn about the plants and animals that make the area their home. Attendees will also be introduced to stewardship principles to understand how humans make an impact on the land and how we can all reduce our footprint. The guided hike will last about an hour, following the - mile unpaved trail. Participants are advised to dress for the weather and wear appropriate walking/hiking shoes. It is also recommended that you bring sunscreen and a bottle of water. For more information contact 252-1289. Bozeman/Butte area Seek Your Fortune at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park from 9 a.m.-noon. Participants will receive a treasure map to find a specific fortune cookie and a select few of the cookies will include additional prizes. Additional prizes include a nights stay in a park cabin, a free cave tour for a family of four and other offerings from local businesses. Treasure seekers will meet at the Cave (Upper) Visitor Center parking lot. The event is free. For more information call 406-287-3541. Kalispell/Flathead area Trail Clean up at Lone Pine State Park & Foys To Blacktail from 8:30 a.m.-noon. Discover your local trails, learn how to handle some trail-building tools, and gain hands-on experience in trail conservation and noxious weed control. After the trail work, enjoy a barbecue provided by Rotary of Kalispell and meet other trail enthusiasts. Volunteers will meet at Foys Lake near the junction of Lone Pine Road. Tools will be provided (if you have your own please bring them), bring gloves and water. This event is put on with the help of the Montana Conservation Corps, Foys to Blacktail Trails and Kalispell Rotary. For More information call the Lone Pine State Park visitor center at 406-755-2706 ext.2. Trail Maintenance at Flathead Lake State Park; Wild Horse Island from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Help maintain public trails at Wild Horse Island State Park. Enjoy scenic views, meet new people, and help care for Wild Horse Islands trails. Due to the nature of this event, volunteers must be ages 8 and older. Volunteers should bring a lunch, water, sturdy hiking shoes, work clothes, and be prepared for hiking 3-plus miles. Registration for this event is required and limited to 30 volunteers. Call 406-837-3041 to register and arrange transportation to the island from the Big Arm Unit of Flathead Lake State Park. Missoula Guided Hike at Milltown State Park from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Join in the National Trails Day festivities at Milltown State Park with a guided hike on the new Bandmann Flats trail. The group will meet at the parks Overlook and then proceed down the new trail to Bandmann Flats. This event is free; no registration required. For more information contact 406-542-5531. Dillon Birds Eye View Hike of Bannack State Park from 10 a.m. - noon. Meet at the Birds Eye View trailhead for a guided, 2-mile hike through the hills just south of the town site. This hike will follow the original Salt Lake City Road and mining access roads. Along the way hikers will have a chance to get a birds eye view of Bannack, the surrounding countryside, a mine adit, a mill, and other sights. Hikers should meet at the trailhead before the scheduled start time of 10 a.m. For more information call William Whearty at 406-834-3413. Great Falls area Jump Hike at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park at 9:15 a.m. View the famous buffalo jump with park ranger Alice Southworth and identify the native plants and prairie wildflowers along the way. Learn how the First Peoples used these plants to survive on the prairie. View the exhibits in the Visitors Center afterward. Reservations required. For more information or to register, visit http://getfitgreatfalls.com/hikes/. This event is free. The American Hiking Societys National Trails Day is the countrys largest celebration of trails. Gather with more than 100,000 other volunteers throughout the nation in empowering all to enjoy, share, and preserve the hiking experience. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Marion Long's home on Marian Drive was selected as the winner of the 2018 Santa Maria Valley Beautiful's Sweepstakes Award. The OECD Observer online archive takes you on a journey through half a century of public policy and world progress. Since November 1962, the OECDs experts and leading guests offer insights on the questions facing our member countries with concise and authoritative analysis, and provide our audiences with an excellent opportunity to understand policy debates and consider solutions. Each edition of the OECD Observer reports on a core theme of the OECDs on-going work, from economics and society through governance, finance, and the environment, and articles are bolstered by tables and graphs. " " Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge kiss (with eyes closed!) on the balcony at Buckingham Palace after their marriage on April 29, 2011 in London, England. Christopher Furlong/Staff/Getty Images Rick and Ilsa in "Casablanca." Wills and Kate on their wedding day. The "Kissing Sailor" in Times Square on V-J Day. Iconic kisses all around. Now imagine all of those beautiful people locking lips with their eyes wide open. Intensely creepy mental images, right? There's a reason the thought of kissing with your eyes peeled immediately makes you cringe (aside from the disturbingly close view of another human's facial features). Or at least there's a possible reason, rooted in a 2016 study from Holloway University of London. When the paper was published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance, media outlets quickly extrapolated the results to the world of make-outs (because, sure, why not). Some science writers were quick to point out that the original study made no mention of kissing, but see for yourself if the findings make sense in the context of swapping spit. Advertisement For the study, psychologists Polly Dalton and Dr. Sandra Murphy fitted participants' hands with small devices that emitted light vibrations. While wearing the devices, the participants were then tasked with completing both mental and visual tasks involving a letter search, and had to simultaneously report on the presence or absence of the vibrations. The researchers found that when participants were asked to complete more demanding visual tasks, they were far less sensitive to the vibrations. Again, the study itself wasn't intended as an investigation of kissing etiquette, but it does make sense why people eagerly adapted the results that way. Kissing is inherently intimate and clearly physical for the brain to fully appreciate the intensity and sensation, the eyes would have to be shut to focus all the attention on the very visceral experience. As Dalton told The Independent, "These results could explain why we close our eyes when we want to focus attention on another sense. Shutting out the visual input leaves more mental resources to focus on other aspects of our experience." Of course, she was more likely referencing drivers' inability to perceive a vehicle's tactile drifting lane alerts when engaged in demanding visual tasks, but ... that's kind of romantic in its own way, isn't it? Now That's Crazy Weird kissing laws exist and they're hilarious. In Indiana, for example, it's illegal for men with mustaches "to habitually kiss human beings" and in Hartford, Connecticut, men are banned from kissing their wives on Sundays. Punjab National Bank (PNB) on Tuesday reported narrowing of its net loss to Rs 9,975.49 crore in the financial year 2018-19, helped by decline in provisions and improvement in asset quality. The scam-hit lender had posted net loss of Rs 12,282.82 crore in FY18, after the bank discovered a banking fraud of Rs 14,000 crore which was orchestrated by fugitive billionaire Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi. "The total income of the bank declined marginally to Rs 58,687.66 crore versus Rs 56,876.63 crore in the last fiscal," PNB said in a filing to the Bombay Stock Exchange. The operating profit for FY19 climbed by 26.23 per cent to Rs 12,995.24 crore as compared to Rs 10,294.20 crore in FY18. The bank's provisions and contingencies declined marginally to Rs 28,341.01 crore from Rs 29,869.28 crore in the last year. Also Read: SBI posts net profit of Rs 862 crore in FY19 on higher interest income, asset quality improves PNB's asset quality improved in FY19 with gross non-performing assets (NPAs) ratio - bad loans as a percentage of gross advances - declining to 15.50 per cent versus 18.38 per cent in the previous year. Net NPA also fell to 6.56 per cent as compared to 11.24 per cent in the last fiscal. In accordance with the Reserve Bank of India guidelines, PNB made a provision of Rs. 11,940.15 crore towards its exposure to accounts covered under provisions of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), the bank said in its exchange filing. During the January-March quarter, the bank's net loss narrowed to Rs 4,750 crore as compared to loss of 13,417 crore reported in the same quarter last year. The public sector lender's net interest income (NII), which is the difference between interest earned and interest expended, grew 37.1 per cent year-on-year to Rs 4,200 crore in Q4 FY19. Net interest margin (NIM) of PNB increased to 2.45 per cent from 1.90 per cent in the March quarter of 2018. During the March quarter, the bank restructured 13,682 MSME accounts worth Rs 622 crore. The bank's board has not declared any dividend for the financial year ended March 31, 2019. Meanwhile, PNB shares were trading at Rs 86.55 apiece, down 3.08 per cent, over its previous close on the BSE. Edited by Chitranjan Kumar SINGAPORE (May 28): UOB Kay Hian recommends investors "buy" ComfortDelGro (CDG) on dips with a target price of $2.77 following the groups results announcement. See: Brokers shift gear to 'hold' for ComfortDelGro after good run CDG on May 14 announced that its 1Q19 earnings have increased by 6.2% y-o-y to $70.4 million, due to higher revenue, driven by strong contributions from recent acquisitions made in 2017 and 2018. Revenue grew by 7.8% y-o-y to $947.3 million, with the topline growth coming mainly from the Public Transport Services, Automotive Engineering Services and Driving Centre businesses, but this was offset in part by lower income from the Taxi and Bus Station businesses. In all, operating profit for 1Q grew 12.2% or $11.7 million on-year to $107.4 million, which the group says would have been $1.7 million higher if not for negative foreign currency impacts resulting from the weaker AUD, GBP and RMB. See: ComfortDelGro posts 6.2% higher 1Q earnings of $70.4 mil on topline boost from acquisitions Despite growth in the groups 1Q19 earnings, CDG missed UOBs estimates by a whisker. However, UOB has a more bullish view on the stock compared to consensus which has a more neutral stance. CDGs management has indicated that it will participate in bus tenders in Australia, with upcoming locations in Perth and Adelaide in consideration. In a May 15 report, analyst Lucas Teng says, Competition in the tenders may prove difficult, as extended criteria such as on-demand services are included in tender requirements. CDGs operational track record, however, puts it in good stead. In efforts to compete with private hire apps in Singapore, CDG has introduced a dynamic pricing model to its booking app. With this model, fares will be adjusted according to demand and supply, though peak surges will be limited. Competition in the tenders may prove difficult, as extended criteria such as on-demand services are included in tender requirements. CDGs operational track record, however, puts it in good stead, says Teng. Story continues Private hires are also putting in counter-measures, such as Droplet, an insurance offered in partnership between Grab and NTUC to guard against surge pricing during rainy days, encouraging customer stickiness. CDGs management also noted that the enhancements to the app will be introduced on a progressive basis. As at 11.05am, shares in CDG are trading 2 cents lower at $2.43 or 2.1 times FY19 book with a dividend yield of 4.4%. Stocks sank Tuesday on both sides of the Atlantic as investors feared for the US economic outlook, tracked a political flare-up between Rome and Brussels and continued to digest the outcome of Europe's parliamentary elections. On Wall Street, fears of a slowing economy pushed Treasury bills lower, with the rate on the 10-year briefly touching the lowest level since September 2017. US stocks also sank, sending major indices to their lowest levels in two months and compounding losses for May, which is now likely to be Wall Street's first down month for the year. "The stock market is hesitating while the bond market seems to be of a pretty strong view that the world economy is slowing," Karl Haeling of LBBW told AFP. "Also, from a psychological perspective, the stock market tends to underperform in May so a lot of buyers just want to wait until the end of the month." An index of US consumer confidence on Tuesday registered an unexpectedly strong jump for May, pointing to sustained retail spending in the second quarter of 2019. But other segments of the US economy, including business investment and sales of manufactured goods as well as a slowing services sector, have raised concerns of late. - 'Old rules' - In Europe, Milan, Frankfurt and Paris all retreated as Italian debt concerns returned to the fore. And London, where investors returned from a long weekend, did a little better as a weak pound helped stocks stem losses. "Italy is once again becoming a problem for the eurozone," said analyst Konstantinos Anthis at trading firm ADSS. However, losses were limited after a much-feared surge in populist groups was largely contained in European Parliament elections. "European stock markets are in the red as Italian government bond yields have ticked up over fear of a political fight between Rome and Brussels," said analyst David Madden at CMC Markets UK. "The EU has warned the Italian government they could be fined... for failing to curb their debt levels, and Italy's joint deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini declared he will use all his energies to fight the EU's rules." Salvini said Tuesday he expected Brussels to hit Rome with a three billion-euro ($3.4 billion) fine over the country's rising debt and structural deficit levels. "At a time when youth unemployment touches 50 percent in some regions... someone in Brussels is demanding, under the old rules, a fine of three billion euros," he told RTL 102.5 radio. "All my energy will go into changing these rules from the past," said Salvini, who has been emboldened after his far-right League party topped Sunday's European Parliament elections in Italy. The European Commission is expected to start disciplinary steps against Italy on June 5 by opening an excessive deficit procedure that could hand Italy a fine of up to 0.2 percent of the nation's GDP. Italy's public debt is seen as a big problem, sitting at 132 percent of the country's GDP in 2018 -- way above the 60 percent EU ceiling. - Key figures around 2100 GMT - New York - Dow: DOWN 0.9 percent at 25,347.77 (close) New York - S&P 500: DOWN 0.8 percent at 2,802.39 (close) New York - Nasdaq: DOWN 0.4 percent at 7,607.35 (close) Milan - FTSE MIB: DOWN 0.5 percent at 20,260.98 points (close) London - FTSE 100: DOWN 0.1 percent at 7,268.95 (close) Frankfurt - DAX 30: DOWN 0.4 percent at 12,027.05 (close) Paris - CAC 40: DOWN 0.4 percent at 5,312.69 (close) EURO STOXX 50: DOWN 0.5 percent at 3,348.86 (close) Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 0.4 percent at 21,260.14 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng: UP 0.4 percent at 27,390.81 (close) Shanghai - Composite: UP 0.6 percent at 2,909.91 (close) Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.1162 from $1.1194 Dollar/yen: DOWN at 109.37 yen from 109.51 yen Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.2655 from $1.2679 at 2050 GMT Euro/pound: DOWN at 88.22 pence from 88.28 Oil - Brent Crude: FLAT at $70.11 per barrel Oil - West Texas Intermediate: UP 51 cents at $59.14 burs-dg/wd Axiata described its plan with Telenor as a merger of equals, saying the process is based on the relative valuation of both their assets. Reuters pic KUALA LUMPUR, May 28 Telecommunications firm Axiata Group Bhd dismissed claims that its merger with Norway-based Telenor ASA's Asian operations is akin to selling Malaysian interests to a foreign company. One of Malaysias largest telecommunications companies, Axiata described its plan with Telenor as a merger of equals, saying the process is based on the relative valuation of both their assets, local business paper The Edge reported on its website today. However, under the plan ownership ratio of the merged entity which is known as MergeCo, Telenor will have a 56.6 per cent stake while Axiata will have 43.5 per cent. Despite Telenor having a majority stake, on matters of governance of the new MergedCo, the concept of merger of equals is fundamental to this proposed merger. Although Axiata does not own a majority stake in the MergedCo, we would own a significant share of a much larger group and value, as the value of our assets would increase due to the synergy benefits of the merger between RM15 billion to RM20 billion, of which our portion [works out to] RM7 billion to RM9 billion. Capex savings would be approximately two-thirds of that, of which close to 40% would be the savings in Malaysia alone or RM4 to RM5 billion, Axiata was quoted saying. Axiata said the valuations are based on operating profits, analyst estimates, forecast and market valuations however it does not include the companies revenue and the number of subscribers each service has. The merger will also see Axiatas Celcom and Telenors Digi.com owned by MergedCo, which will have roughly 67 per cent stake. Axiata said the Celcom and Digi merger would be known as MalaysiaCo, adding that the national interest will hold the bigger stake of 46 per cent through direct and indirect shares with potential market capitalisation exceeding RM41 billion. In comparison, it said Telenors indirect ownership will only be around 38 per cent. Axiata also said the majority of MalaysiaCo board members and its chief executive officer will be Malaysians. Story continues MergedCo is also expected to see proforma revenue of RM50 billion and a net profit fo RM4 billion, with operating subsidiaries in nine countries with a total 300 million customers, making it the largest telecommunications companies in the South Asian and South-east Asian regions. Given the scale that the merger brings, consumers are expected to benefit from affordable prices, better network quality and coverage, and more innovative products, due to a much stronger Malaysian entity and the regional innovation centre. With a stronger balance sheet and the enhanced profitability of MalaysiaCo, we will have the ability to offer affordable 5G and broadband services while increasing network coverage and quality, much better and earlier than Celcom or Digi could do (in their individual capacities), to support the Malaysian Digital Agenda, said Axiata. The group also assures that the merger will not see any job losses instead assure new jobs will be created due to the scale of the union of the two companies. Whatever we do will be from the position of strength and therefore, we would have the luxury to manage any reduction of workforce, if required, through voluntary means. Our people plan includes the retraining or reskilling of employees to new areas, said Axiata. Related Articles Malaysians need answers about Axiata-Telenor deal Joni Sundram No job losses from proposed merger with Telenor ASA, Axiatas CEO says MIDF maintains neutral call on Axiata-Telenor mega merger SINGAPORE (May 28): China Everbright Water says it recently secured the Zhejiang Tongxiang West Area Drinking Water Sources Protection Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project, which comes with an investment of RMB1.253 billion ($250 million). This marks China Everbrights foray into the business of drinking water sources wetland protection, says the group in its filing on Tuesday, aside from being its first environmental water project in the Zhejiang province. The group intends to establish a 79.9%-owned project company with the government of Tongxiang city and a consortium from the private sector that includes China Everbright. An investor representative of the Tongxiang government will hold a remaining 20% equity stake. Under the project company, China Everbright will construct and operate a wetland ecological engineering project, a new water pumping station and new raw water pipeline network. These will take up an area of 5,400 mu in total. Within the wetland engineering project component, a parallel system will be developed to connect the north, middle and south areas of wetland, with each such area being operated independently. Water from these three areas will flow to a water intake area, and then be transferred to the local water plants through a pumping station with a total designed daily treatment capacity of 600,000 sq m. In addition to the wetland ecological engineering project, the project will also include the construction of a pumping station and two raw water pipelines of 30km in length. An Xuesong, executive director and CEO of the group, says securing the project not sets a foundation for Everbright to explore the field of water environment treatment, but also strengthens its strategic development in Eastern China. After completing construction and commencing operation, Tongxiang Project will effectively upgrade the quality of water supply in Tongxiang City. In addition, it will improve the local water sources and strengthen the risk resistance capabilities of the local water plants, says An. Everbright Water will fully leverage on its experience and advantages in the field of water environment treatment, and smoothly carry out the investment, construction and operation of the Project, to give a reliable assurance to the local residents of Tongxiang City in providing safe drinking water, he adds. Shares in the group closed 1.32% lower at 38 cents on Monday. European leaders launched a summer of wrangling over their union's political direction on Tuesday with a clash over nominations for Brussels' top job. After dinner in Brussels, Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel left saying she stood by her centre-right group's candidate to lead the European Commission for the next five years. "We stand by our lead candidate, the EPP candidate, that is Manfred Weber. Others stand by their candidate, which is obvious," Merkel told reporters. "We have responsibility towards our voters, and we will have to wait and see. It's too early to speak about this, everyone needs to show tolerance and a willingness to engage in compromise." But President Emmanuel Macron of France said the shifting political balance in the European Parliament after last week's election had broken the "prison" of the candidacy process. "The key is that the people in the most sensitive posts share in our project and are as charismatic, inventive and competent as possible," he said. "Everyone will have to move, and we are going to have build a consensus. In this framework the role of France, having broken out of the prison of spitzenkandidats, is to build a dynamic and credible movement, behind a project." France -- backed by progressive allies like Spanish premier Pedro Sanchez -- wants a candidate who could support the programme of a broader alliance of liberal, social democratic Green and centre-right MEPs. The president of the European Council, Donald Tusk, will now go away and try to draw up a list of nominees for top EU roles that a majority of leaders could get behind at a June 21 summit. If they fail find consensus, the debate will drag on, as it did in 2014, when it took several summits to agree on all the top jobs. Alongside the Commission role, the leaders also have to choose a new Council president, a foreign policy chief, a speaker for the European Parliament and a central bank director. - Tacit snub for Weber - After the summit broke up, Macron said he expected the nominations to be "even-handed -- two men and two women, with a geographical balance," echoing Tusk's own description of the recruitment campaign that lies ahead. Earlier in the day, the leaders of the Greens, the socialist and the centre-right groups in parliament insisted that the leaders agree to a "spitzenkandidat" or lead candidate nominated by them to the commission. But the centrist ALDE group, which now includes members of Macron's liberal movement, refused to sign the pact, and the French leader is building support for a progressive candidate. Tusk insisted that leaders had not fallen out over names, but had instead discussed the process through which they will find names acceptable to both the 28-nation Council and the new 751-seat parliament. Weber's European People's Party (EPP) remains the biggest bloc in the European Parliament despite losing some 40 seats in the weekend election and losing the power to wield a majority in coalition with the centre-left S&D group. But he is seen as short on charisma and has no executive experience -- a fact alluded to repeatedly by Macron. As he arrived, Macron insisted he did not want to talk about possible names for the job -- before listing centre-left pick Frans Timmermans, EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier and EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager as suitable candidates, while pointedly omitting Weber. - 'Credibility and know-how' - An EU source said Weber could seek the presidency of the European Parliament if he fails in his Commission bid -- a consolation prize not open to Vestager or Timmermans. Under EU treaty law, the European Council nominates a commission president, then the parliament ratifies their choice. But the procedure, while seemingly straightforward, masks a complex power struggle between rival states and ideological blocs and between the leaders and parliament itself. The leaders of France, Spain, Belgium, Portugal and the Netherlands -- all liberals or socialists -- met over lunch on Tuesday and a Spanish government source said an "alliance of progressive forces" was taking form. This could also work against the conservative Weber. Udo Bullmann, the leader of the centre-left S&D parliamentary group, said Merkel was becoming "kind of nervous" as control of the process slipped from her grasp. The EU elections saw ALDE and the Greens gain ground -- ending the EPP and S&D groups' ability to form a coalition majority without their cooperation. - Pale and stale - Momentum from the results is emboldening some liberals to push their candidate Vestager, with Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel saying she would be "excellent". As a woman, Vestager would help the Commission shed its "male, pale and stale" image -- there has never been a female president -- and she has a certain public profile after taking on the US internet giants as a regulator. Timmermans, a centre-left Dutchman with more executive experience, will have the S&D's backing but ALDE, while dubious about the process, could back Vestager. burs-dc/pdw/spm MANILA, Philippines The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has ordered a market recall of all pork-based products that are manufactured from countries affected by the deadly pig virus African Swine Fever (ASF). The recall order includes canned goods like luncheon meat and processed pork with manufacturing date from August 2018 when the countrys import ban on pork took effect, up to present. The agency also calls on traders not to sell these products anymore. According to Health Undersecretary and FDA Officer-In-Charge Eric Domingo, ASF is highly contagious and the risk is high especially when contamination spreads into the countrys swine industry. Domingo noted a recent study which reveals the possibility that the ASF virus could still survive even the highest temperature during processing. Though there is no recorded proof of human transmission, the ASF virus present in processed pork or pork-based products may pose a threat to live pigs. In this case we are banning this product primarily because of food security. Mabilis kasing mag-spread itong African Swine Flu (spreads easily) and it affects live stocks, Domingo said. The FDA has rolled out an investigation as to how the pork products were able to enter the country despite the Department of Agriculture (DA)s import ban that started in August 2018. Domingo added that since the import ban took effect, the issuance of import permit was also put on hold thus the entry of such items was definitely questionable. Wala naman kasi na ibinibigay na certificate of product registration ang DA since late last year so hindi na dapat iyan naipapasok sa Pilipinas, he explained. (The DA no longer issues certificates of product registration since last year so those items shouldnt have entered the Philippines.) African Swine Fever (ASF) cases were first reported in Africa and several European countries. The outbreak of the virus also killed millions of pigs in China last year. Just this year, the virus further spread to its neighboring countries Mongolia, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Story continues Based on record from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, the ASF virus has already killed about 2.6 million pigs in the mentioned countries. Ipinakikiusap namin sa mga nagtitinda na mismo kung meron silang mga produkto na mga meat products na de lata na nanggaling doon sa mga bansa na binanggit natin, sana i-recall na nila, Domingo appeals to traders. (We are calling all traders to have the initiative to recall the meat products and canned goods themselves particularly those which came from the ASF-affected countries.) Sila na mismo itago na nila. Huwag na nilang ibenta at i-report nila sa amin para ma-trace natin kung saan nanggaling at make sure lang na hindi na po ito kumalat, he added. (Have the initiative to pull them out of the store shelves. Do not sell them anymore and report to us so we may be able to trace their origin and also to make sure we prevent the spread of the virus.) At present, the DAs Bureau of Quarantine has foot baths in place at international airports across the country for passengers coming from ASF-affected countries. These will caution passengers of the preventive measures the government is taking to prevent the spread of the deadly pig virus. Posibleng hindi nakarating sa kanila. Posibleng hindi nila nabasa. But upon arriving at the airport of entry, sinabihan ka ng Quarantine (officer) na hindi pwede, magpupumilit ka ba? At ang gagamitin mong dahilan ay hindi mo alam? Hindi pwdeng ganun, Agriculture Secretary Manny Pinol said. (It may not have reached their knowledge or possibly have not read about the ban, but upon arriving at the airport and the quarantine officer tells you that those items are banned, would you still insist? Would you still reason out that you didnt know about it? It doesnt work that way.) The agency will request for additional K9 units as well as the installation of x-ray machines to screen passengers baggage. Confiscated banned products will be destroyed or burned, according to DA. (with details from Rey Pelayo) The post FDA orders recall of pork products from African Swine Fever-affected countries appeared first on UNTV News. File photo of a doctor: Getty Images SINGAPORE A hand surgeon who was suspended from practice for six months by a disciplinary tribunal over two charges of professional misconduct had his conviction set aside by the High Court. Dr Looi Kok Poh was previously found guilty by a tribunal convened by the Singapore Medical Council (SMC) of failing to give sufficient medical leave to a foreign worker after the latter sustained a fingertip injury due to an industrial accident. On Monday (27 May), a panel of three court judges - Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon and Appeal Judges Judith Prakash and Tay Yong Kwang - said that the tribunal had failed to establish that Dr Looi had departed from the applicable standard of conduct in the case. In particular, we are of the view that the tribunals finding on the applicable standard of conduct from which Dr Looi departed... was unsafe, unreasonable and contrary to the evidence, said Judge of Appeal Prakash. On the evidence before us, it could not be said that Dr Looi had departed from the applicable standard of conduct among members of the medical profession of good standing and repute. The judges found no basis that Dr Looi had been seriously negligent, dismissing the SMC's appeal against the sentence. It also set aside all orders that the tribunal had made against Dr Looi. In particular, the judges noted that after examining the worker, Vadamodulu Tata Rao, Dr Looi had decided that light duties were medically appropriate as there were adequate conditions for the patients rest and rehabilitation at work. Dr Looi had discussed the availability of light duties with the patient and his accompanying safety officer at a review, they added. Background of the case Vadamodulu, who worked as a welder in a shipyard, was on duty on 7 August 2011 when a steel plate fell on his right hand. The 32-year-old Indian national sustained a crush injury to the fingertip of his right middle finger. Dr Looi operated on Vadamodulu for the first of his two-stage procedure. Story continues After the surgery, Vadamodulu was hospitalised at West Point Surgery Centre for one night. Dr Looi left notes for West Point to discharge Vadamodulu the next day with one day of medical leave and seven days of light duties. However, Vadamodulu reported feeling pain that night and was seen by another doctor who discharged him with a medical certificate granting him two days' medical leave, which ended on that day. When Vadamodulu returned for a review on 12 August, Dr Looi gave him light duty for 11 days and no medical leave until the next review on 22 August. On 20 August, Vadamodulu visited the Singapore General Hospital (SGH) complaining of pain over the stitched area on his finger. He was given medical leave until 22 August. On 22 August, Dr Looi issued one week of medical leave to the patient and scheduled him for the second stage of the procedure. The patient skipped the appointment and underwent surgery at the SGH. Earlier ruling The tribunal ruled that Dr Looi had not clinically assessed Vadamodulus suitability for light duties. Dr Looi had decided almost immediately after the first surgery on the type and amount of leave without considering the patients pain score on the night of the surgery, the tribunal said. Dr Looi had intentionally and deliberately departed from his duty to assess that the conditions for Vadamodulus rest and rehabilitation were sufficient. In particular, he did not properly establish the existence and nature of light duty arrangements, the tribunal ruled. The SMC had asked for 18 months suspension for each charge, while Dr Looi sought a fine of $20,000 to $30,000. The tribunal imposed a six-month suspension on Dr Looi after deciding that a fine would not be sufficient. Dr Looi filed an appeal against his conviction and sentence while the SMC appealed for a harsher sentence. Chinese Literature students at Nan Chiau High School giving a presentation on their analysis of a literary work to the class. (PHOTO: Chia Han Keong/Yahoo News Singapore) SINGAPORE Chinese Literature classes at Nan Chiau High School are often filled with interesting activities. Students get to role-play scenes from acclaimed literature, and engage in group discussions to analyse the qualities of literary works. Such activities form the basis of the schools objective of inspiring students into a lifelong passion in learning the subject, and will be expanded to include more enrichment events when the secondary school introduces the Chinese Language Elective Programme (CLEP) next year. Nan Chiau is one of nine schools to implement this programme at secondary-level for the first time, announced by Education Minister Ong Ye Kung at the annual Teachers Conference on Tuesday (28 May). The others are: Anglican High School, Chung Cheng High School (Main), Dunman High School, Hwa Chong Institution, Maris Stella High School, Nan Hua High School, Nanyang Girls High School, and Temasek Junior College. Enrichment activities outside classwork Tang Jui Piow, Nan Chiaus acting head of department for mother tongue languages, told Yahoo News Singapore on Monday that the school will be organising many enrichment events outside of classwork to engage CLEP students in learning their mother tongue language. He said, We will have combined literature camps with students from other schools offering CLEP, seminars and workshops with local and foreign authors, as well as talks with members of our school alumni who have gone on to produce literary works. There may also be opportunities for overseas immersion trips. We believe that the most important way of inspiring students is to expose them often to the languages via literary events and activities. This breeds familiarity with their mother tongue languages, and hopefully they will find the right attitude to continue pursuing their learning of the languages even after school life. Indeed, for the secondary schools and junior colleges (JCs) which will offer LEP programmes for the first time next year, lifelong learning of the languages is what they aim to instil among their students through their enriched curriculum. Story continues Schools offering MLEP and TLEP Besides the nine schools offering CLEP at secondary level, three schools will be introducing the Malay LEP (MLEP) Anderson Secondary School, Bukit Panjang Government High School, and Tanjong Katong Secondary School. Another three schools Commonwealth Secondary School, Riverside Secondary School, and Yishun Town Secondary School will roll out the Tamil LEP (TLEP). The TLEP will also be introduced for the first time in two JCs (National Junior College and Anderson Serangoon JC). Meanwhile, National JC and Raffles Institution (JC) will join Jurong Pioneer JC, Tampines Meridian JC, and Yishun Innova JC in offering MLEP at JC level. Kamalavani Palaiyan, Tamil teacher at Anderson Serangoon JC, believes that language forms a key component in a students identity, and the new TLEP-JC programme will help in motivating more Tamil students to take up the subject at JC level. She said, We aim to expand their boundary of learning beyond the current Tamil Literature curriculum. They will get to hear from professionals from different art forms, such as poets, writers and theatre artists, on how they create their literary works. Through experiential learning from our programme, we hope the students can get a first-hand learning of the values and qualities from the rich history of the Tamil culture, which will help to shape their identity as they enter adulthood. Sharing culture with other races At Bukit Panjang Government High School, students taking the MLEP will be learning how the Malay culture can thrive in the modern society. Rasiah Buang, the schools Malay language teacher/coordinator, hopes that, through short stories, poems or even songs, students can learn about how literature and art can influence the Malay community positively, and be inspired to become literary writers too. Another of the key emphasis for Bukit Panjangs MLEP students will be about sharing the Malay culture and its values among the school population, said Tan Kok Hua, the schools head of department for mother tongue languages. He added, After broadening their learning horizons through the programme, we want the students to become cultural transmitters, and promote their cultural values to the other races. It is about inculcating future leaders in the language. Related story: Language Elective Programme to be introduced in secondary schools from 2020: Ong Ye Kung FILE PHOTO: Filipinos wade in a flooded street during a downpour in Quezon City, Philippines. (Ritchie Tongo/PVI) MANILA, Philippines The Department of Health (DOH) has warned the public to keep being protected from WILD diseases associated with the rainy weather. WILD stands for water-borne diseases, influenza, leptospirosis, and dengue. Examples of water-borne diseases are cholera and typhoid fever which can be contracted from contaminated water or spoiled food. Cholera is an infectious disease that causes watery diarrhea, dehydration or death when untreated. Typhoid fever, on the other hand, is a serious disease with symptoms include lasting high fevers, weakness, headache and stomach pains even loss of appetite. Influenza, commonly known as flu, is a viral infection that usually attacks the respiratory system. The most common symptoms include fever, cough and colds, sneezing and muscle pains. It is common due to a sudden drop in temperature or high humidity level. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection present in wild and domesticated rodents and can infect both animals and humans. People with open wounds contract the disease by wading through bodies of water or floodwater usually contaminated by the rodents urine. The DOH said those who regularly wade in floodwater need to be protected from leptospirosis by taking antibiotic medications on doctors prescription. Meanwhile, the DOH records show that from January 1 to May 11 this year, the number of dengue cases rose to more than 74,000. The DOH expects this number to rise this year during the onset of the rainy season. Iyong mga hospitals natin ready na iyan kapag ganitong tag-ulan, Domingo said. (Our hospitals are all set for the rainy season.) We have dengue lanes. Ina-activate na natin iyan at siyempre iyong mga gamot natin na naka- stock hindi lang para sa dengue, para sa leptospirosis din. Pagdating ng unang baha natin ito usually iyong most dangerous, he added. (We have activated that and of course, we have medicines on stock not only for dengue but for leptospirosis as well. The first flood is usually the most dangerous.) Story continues The Health Department reminds the public to clear the surroundings with stagnant water containers which can be breeding grounds for dengue-carrying mosquitoes. Prevention pa rin ang key sa dengue, the undersecretary said. (Prevention is still the key with dengue.) We have to protect the children. Kapag magpapasukan na, sana po pasuotin ng damit na protektado sila pantalon, mga longsleeves. Lagyan ng insect repellant to make sure na hindi makagat ang mga bata during the day, he said. (When classes begin, let your children wear protective clothes long pants and long sleeves. Apply insect repellant to make sure they are protected from (mosquito) bites during the day.) The DOH also reminds the public not to take antibiotics in cases of fever, cough and colds to prevent the body from developing antimicrobial resistance or the bodys rejection of the effects of medication. Bawal iyon. Ang pag- inom po ng maling antiibiotic at pag- take ninyo ng hindi tamang schedule ay maaring maging sanhi para magkaroon tayo ng antimicrobial resistance, Domingo warned. (Thats not allowed. Taking the wrong antibiotic or medications out of schedule can develop antimicrobial resistance.) Ito is one of the challenges na nakikita natin hindi lang sa Pilipinas kundi sa buong mundo in the next few years, he added. (This is one of the challenges that we foresee not only in the Philippines but across the globe in the next few years.) According to the DOH, it is still best to consult a doctor when experiencing the symptoms of the mentioned diseases in order to get and apply proper health remedy. The post Keep protected from WILD diseases this rainy season DOH appeared first on UNTV News. Mainland Chinese woman jailed for five years in Hong Kong for her part in a US$137.8 million money-laundering scheme A mainland Chinese woman was jailed for five years in Hong Kong on Tuesday over a HK$1 billion money-laundering scheme uncovered when police investigated an international phone scam. Liu Sujun, 34, allowed US$136.8 million (HK$1.06 billion) to be transferred in and out of a bank account her brother asked her to open for a company under her name between September 2015 and September 2016, the Court of First Instance heard. Part of the substantial sum came from 997,000 (HK$8.8 million) garnered from a phone scam that targeted a Czech company, whose complaint triggered the investigation. Liu had claimed to have no idea of what her brother was up to, but sentencing judge Mr Patrick Li Hon-leung refused to accept her explanation on Tuesday. It really perplexed me, he said, after hearing that Liu herself had been a businesswoman for more than a decade. Her involvement could not have been trivial. The woman from Shenzhen was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of dealing in property known or believed to represent proceeds from an indictable offence. The court heard that the police received a report from International Automotive Components in the Czech Republic in September 2016 after the company had been deceived by a fraudulent call. The caller asked the company to transfer 997,000 to a HSBC bank account in Hong Kong for a deal, which it did. When it realised what had happened, the company alerted Hong Kong police. An investigation found that US$699,736, which constituted part of that sum, was deposited into the bank account of Xingxinhong Trade Limited, a company owned solely by Liu. When police looked into the firms bank account, it noticed that it had received 1,002 deposits totalling US$136.8 million from various Hong Kong and mainland Chinese bank accounts between September 16, 2015 and September 29, 2016. Story continues During the same period, there were 1,325 transfers totalling roughly the same amount to a string of bank accounts in Hong Kong, mainland China and Singapore. Liu was arrested on January 13 last year when entering Hong Kong. She admitted coming to the city a week before the first deposit in 2015 to open the bank account with an old neighbour who had been enlisted by her brother. Sentencing her, Li also said the case was serious in that it involved a large sum of money and a cross-border element. This article Mainland Chinese woman jailed for five years in Hong Kong for her part in a US$137.8 million money-laundering scheme first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2019. In a bid to strengthen its portfolio, Reliance Brands has signed up Armani's sportswear brand EA7 as well as British high-street labels All Saints and Kurt Geiger. This will give a boost to the company's portfolio of high-end brands before the launch of its e-commerce initiative. According to reports, Reliance Brands is also scouting for space for all the three brands, as mentioned by people in the know. Additionally, as per a report in The Economic Times, Reliance has also started pulling out its brands from rival e-commerce platforms Amazon and Flipkart before it launches its site. The company is looking to synergise its offline stores with its digital platform. It also aims to attract small stores and large suppliers to conduct its business. However, neither Reliance Retail nor Armani, All Saints, Kurt Geiger responded to queries of the daily. Reliance Brands already sells a host of global marquee labels in India including Diesel, Hugo Boss, Juicy Couture and Kate Spade. The subsidiary of Reliance Industries got access to Emporio Armani and Armani Exchange after it acquired luxury retail company Genesis last year. EA7 that Reliance signed up is Armani's sportswear brand. All Saints sells apparel, footwear and accessories while Kurt Geiger is a footwear and accessories brand. Last month, Reliance Industries announced that it will acquire the iconic toymaker Hamleys for around Rs 620 crore. Separately, Reliance in the 2018-19 fiscal year that ended March 31, reported a turnover of Rs 6.23 lakh crore surpassing IOC as the biggest Indian conglomerate by revenue. In comparison, IOC posted a turnover of Rs 6.17 lakh crore for the fiscal, according to regulatory filings by the two companies. It was also the most profitable company in the country with a net profit of more than double that of IOC in FY2019. Also read: Reliance Industries overtakes IOC: Mukesh Ambani's conglomerate is biggest Indian company by revenue Also read: Reliance's acquisition of Hamleys takes the retail war to global shores President Rodrigo Duterte shows his forefinger with an indelible ink to prove that he has voted for the country's midterm elections in his hometown of Davao city in southern Philippines Monday, May 13, 2019. Duterte's name is not on the ballot but Monday's mid-term elections are seen as a referendum on his phenomenal rise to power, marked by his gory anti-drug crackdown and his embrace of China. (AP Photo/Manman Dejeto) SINGAPORE While the outcome of the May 13 mid-term elections was a huge boost for Philippine President Rodrigo Dutertes domestic agenda, it might not entail significant changes to his pro-China policies, say analysts. Experts noted that Dutertes allies swept the 12 Senate seats up for grabs, leaving the 74-year-old firmly in control of the 24-seat upper house. They told Yahoo News Singapore that while Duterte does not have carte blanche in the area of foreign policy, his allies are unlikely to hamper his dealings with China. Asked if the elections point to improved public opinion on the Middle Kingdom, Associate Professor Jay Batongbacal of the University of the Philippines College of Law noted, The sweep of the administration candidates does not necessarily reflect its foreign policy directions, because the candidates did not really make an issue out of the foreign policy towards China. Batongbacal, who is also director of the universitys Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea, added that the Duterte administration, mindful of public opinion, shifted its tone on China several months before the elections to make it appear tougher towards Beijing. However, with a Senate that is aligned with the administrations general policies and programmes, we could expect that the Senate would probably not present a real obstacle to the administrations policy towards China. The mid-term results are much more significant in terms of Dutertes domestic agenda, said Gerald Tan from KRA Group, an ASEAN-focused public affairs and political risk consultancy. The Senate doesnt have that much control over how Duterte handles foreign policy. In terms of the legislative powers and laws, the Senate is not empowered, for example, to restrict Chinese investments, KRAs Director of Philippines added. Protesters shout slogans while displaying small catch during a rally at the Chinese Consulate in the financial district of Makati city to protest alleged continued seizure of catches of Filipino fishermen at a disputed shoal in the South China Sea despite a protest by the Philippines following an earlier incident Monday, June, 11, 2018 east of Manila, Philippines. The Philippines expressed concern to China in a meeting in Manila in February after receiving a report of Chinese coast guard personnel boarding a Filipino fishing boat at Scarborough Shoal and taking some of its catch, officials said. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) Batongbacal noted that Duterte still has to deal with public opinion on the Middle Kingdom, which remains largely negative. The public opinion polls about China have been very consistent, meaning Chinas trust ratings are still rather low. US and Japan still get the highest trust ratings. The senators will have to respond to this. Story continues The Philippine military factor Academic and author Richard Heydarian sees China as the big winner in the mid-term elections. But he also reckons that Dutertes pro-China policies have thus far been kept in check by what he calls the M and M: the military and the mainstream media. Speaking to journalists in Manila in early May, Heydarian said that the Philippines foreign policy is a contested one. For example, even while the bilateral relationship with the United States was downgraded under Duterte, bilateral contractor cooperation on the military front was actually enhanced. President Duterte doesnt have unilateral power over that because the military also has a say. The Philippine military also deliberately leaks information right and left to put the president in a tough position. Heydarian also pointed out that the policies of the most China-friendly (administration) in the region have not prevented Beijing from asserting itself. If anything, its encouraging China to be actually more aggressive. Tensions have increased in recent months over disputed isles in the South China Sea. Beijing continues to deny Philippine fishermen access to Scarborough Shoal, which is claimed by both countries, even while Chinese fishermen harvest giant clams in the area on a mass scale. More than 275 Chinese vessels have also been spotted near the Philippine-occupied Thitu island, part of the disputed Spratly Islands. This has discouraged Philippines fishermen from entering waters that were deemed by an international tribunal in 2016 to belong to Manila. China, the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei and Taiwan have been staking claims to the whole or part of the Spratlys. The Middle Kingdoms aggressive expansion in the island group, such as setting up military facilities on the Mischief Reef, has raised tensions with its neighbours. Heydarian added wryly, As we say, if we give the Chinese one inch, theyll ask for your entire hand. A trusted interlocutor to the Chinese? Besides the anti-American bent of his policies, Heydarian sees Duterte as wanting to position himself as a trusted interlocutor to the Chinese, in the vein of the late Lee Kuan Yew, Singapores first Prime Minster. But there are key differences between Duterte and Lee. Lee Kuan Yew could speak the language...he visited China, he was very familiar with the context. I don't think the same applies with President Duterte. The President's exposure to China is very limited - essentially, the Chinese Filipino business community in Davao. That's how far it goes. He added, He wants to be like the friend of China, and kind of the harbinger of a kind of a post-American order in Southeast Asia. I think he sees his historical role in that way, if he wants to have a foreign policy legacy. Consolidating its gains So what of the long-term prospects for the territorial disputes? Given that the Chinese priority now is to manage its various disputes with the United States, Batongbacal feels that Beijing will ease off in the South China Sea for now, especially since the typhoon season is coming. They have (also) gotten a sense of (how) the Duterte administration policies towards China still lack public confidence and public support. Batongbacal stressed, They have never really backed off. Even if they ease the pressure, they certainly dont reverse course. Tan told Yahoo News Singapore that both sides will take a long-term view on the matter. I dont get the sense that any one side is going to push for a very final resolution of whats happening in the South China Sea. (In the Philippines), there are a lot more economic and social challenges they have to deal with. This story was partially filed from Manila as part of the 2019 Jefferson Fellowships, which was largely sponsored by the East West Center. By Stephanie Nebehay GENEVA (Reuters) - North Koreans are forced to pay bribes to officials to survive in their isolated country where corruption is "endemic" and repression rife, the U.N. human rights office said on Tuesday in a report that Pyongyang dismissed as politically motivated. The report said officials extorted money from a population struggling to make ends meet, threatening them with detention and prosecution - particularly those working in the informal economy. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), the formal name for North Korea, rejected the report, saying it was "politically motivated for sinister purposes". "Such reports are nothing more than fabrication ... as they are always based on the so-called testimonies of 'defectors' who provide fabricated information to earn their living or are compelled to do so under duress or enticement," its Geneva mission said in a statement to Reuters. North Korea blames the dire humanitarian situation on U.N. sanctions imposed for its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes since 2006. But the report said that the military receives priority funding amid "economic mismanagement". "I am concerned that the constant focus on the nuclear issue continues to divert attention from the terrible state of human rights for many millions of North Koreans," Michelle Bachelet, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, said in a statement. "The rights to food, health, shelter, work, freedom of movement and liberty are universal and inalienable, but in North Korea they depend primarily on the ability of individuals to bribe State officials," she said. Four in 10 North Koreans, or 10.1 million people, are chronically short of food and further cuts to already minimal rations are expected after the worst harvest in a decade, a U.N. assessment said earlier this month. "The threat of arrest, detention and prosecution provide State officials with a powerful means of extorting money from a population struggling to survive," the U.N. rights office report said. Story continues CASH OR CIGARETTES Bribery is "an everyday feature of people's struggle to make ends meet", said the report, entitled "The price is rights". It denounced what it called a "vicious cycle of deprivation, corruption and repression". It is based on 214 interviews with North Korean "escapees", mainly from the northeastern provinces of Ryanggang and North Hamgyong, bordering China. They were the first to be cut from the public distribution system that collapsed in 1994, leading to a famine estimated to have killed up to 1 million, it said. "As my father still had to work at a state firm that could no longer afford giving rations, we survived by selling taffy and liquor my mom made," Ju Chan-yang, a 29-year-old defector, told a news conference hosted by the U.N. rights office in Seoul on Tuesday. Ju, who defected to the South in 2011, said she also made a living by selling banned South Korean and U.S. products in the underground economy. Sometimes she had to bribe authorities. "If you get caught and don't have bribes to pay, you could get executed, just like my relatives," she said. Many North Koreans pay bribes of cash or cigarettes not to have to report to state-assigned jobs where they receive no salary, thus allowing them to earn income in rudimentary markets, the report said. Others bribe border guards to cross into China, where women are vulnerable to trafficking into forced marriages or the sex trade, it added. "North Korea is a society where all of its members are involved in corruption because they're forced to do illegal acts only to survive," said Lee Han-byeol, who came to the South in 2001 and now runs a group that helps defectors. Bachelet urged North Korean authorities to stop prosecuting people for engaging in legitimate market activity and to allow them freedom of movement within the country and abroad. China should not forcibly repatriate North Koreans, she added. The United States called on North Korea this month to "dismantle all political prison camps" and release all political prisoners, who it said numbered between 80,000 and 120,000. North Korea denies the existence of such camps. (Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; Additional reporting by Hyonhee Shin in SEOUL; Editing by Hugh Lawson, Andrew Heavens and Darren Schuettler) Malay Mail Social Logo Dr Mahathir dismissed calls for Thomas to be fired over Syazlins withdrawal. Picture by Ahmad Zamzahuri PETALING JAYA, May 28 Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said lawyer Syazlin Mansor ought to have stayed on as defense counsel for firefighter Muhammad Adib Mohd Kassims family, and withdraw from representing the government. He felt it was inappropriate for Syazlin to represent both parties at the inquest into Adibs cause of death. She was the lawyer for Adibs family, then lawyer for the government as well. How can that be? Dr Mahathir said at a press conference following Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysias weekly meeting at its headquarters. The prime minister said when it was realized Syazlin would represent the government as well, she ought to have been removed from doing so but kept on to represent Adibs family. Instead now she has withdrawn from both sides, when she should be seeking out the truth behind Adibs death, he said. Dr Mahathir also refused to interfere, as it should be left up to the discretion of Attorney General Tommy Thomas. Now the prime minister no longer has power over the courts. If we do not trust the courts to make a decision, then who else do we trust? he said. Yesterday, Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin announced Syazlins withdrawal from the inquest over concerns regarding a conflict of interest. Thomas explained today that Syazlin had taken an active role that is contrary to the position of the deputy public prosecutors. He also said that the Attorney Generals Chambers has no problem with her representing Adibs estate, but Syazlin had insisted on withdrawing. Dr Mahathir dismissed today calls for Thomas to be fired over Syazlins withdrawal, saying the usual quarters are going at this for no reason. When asked who should be held responsible for this, he said the lawyer was agreed upon by Minister Zuraida. The minister did not know the lawyer was representing Adibs family, so you want me to sack Zuraida as well? he joked. Related Articles Bersatu to amend party constitution, seek fairer member representation AG: Lawyer who withdrew from Adibs inquest opposed prosecutors, shouldve declined job KPKT arah peguam tarik diri kes Muhammad Adib, kata setpol Zuraida The revoking of Syazlins appointment for the inquest into fireman Muhammad Adib Mohd Kassims death was allegedly done by way of a letter from Attorney General Tommy Thomas. Picture by Miera Zulyana KUALA LUMPUR, May 28 Syazlin Mansor, the counsel representing the Fire and Rescue Department and the Housing and Local Government Ministry, withdrew herself from an ongoing inquest after she was instructed to do so by the Attorney General, a ministers political secretary has revealed. According to Malaysiakini, Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddins political secretary Nor Hizwan Ahmad said the revoking of Syazlins appointment for the inquest into fireman Muhammad Adib Mohd Kassims death was done by way of a letter from AG Tommy Thomas. The ministry immediately acted in accordance with the AGs advice and instructed its lawyer to withdraw from the inquest, the Malaysiakini report quoted Nor Hizwan saying. The report included the fact that Syazlin is also the wife of Zuraidas press secretary Ahmad Soffian Mohd Shariff. Syazlin shocked observers when she announced her withdrawal from the inquest yesterday morning. Her withdrawal automatically nullifies independent forensic specialist Shahrom Abdul Wahids appointment as an expert witness. Shahrom courted controversy when he was the only witness who told the inquest that Adib sustained injuries after he was pulled out of an Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) vehicle and assaulted. The inquest is to probe the death of 24-year-old Adib who died last December 17, three weeks after he was severely injured during riots that broke out at the Sri Mahamariamman Hindu temple in Subang Jaya, Selangor on November 27. Nor Hizwan, in the report, explained how the ministry had put great importance in the matter given a member of the department died while on duty. He said Syazlin was then appointed at the initial stages to ensure all information surrounding Muhammad Adibs death was unearthed during the inquest, with no objections raised at the get-go over her representation. It has been public knowledge that the lawyer has been representing the Fire and Rescue Department and the ministry since the inquest commenced on Feb 11, 2019. Story continues No objections were raised by any of the parties involved in the inquest throughout the course of the inquest which is nearing its end, he added. Also sharing their disappointment over Syazlins withdrawal was Parti Bumiputra Perkasa Malaysia Youth chief Nasrul Ali Hassan Abdul Latif, who through a statement today said her revoking was an incorrect and suspicious move especially considering the inquest is reaching its conclusion. It is as though there are parties looking to conceal certain statements, he said in a statement. Nasrul said his Youth Wing had lodged a report at the Jalan Datuk Haij Eusoff police station to get them to investigate whether Syazlins withdrawal involved any element of criminal intimidation as alleged in the report. Meanwhile, Malaysiakini also reported that Gerakan Pembela Ummah (Ummah), a collection of pro-Islam NGOs is considering staging another mass protest over Syazlins withdrawal. Chairperson of Ummah, Aminuddin Yahaya was quoted saying the group demanded the government reveal the content of the said letter from the AG instructing Syazlins withdrawal, which he claimed had fed to the rise of conspiracy theories. They also demanded Zuraida, Thomas, and Syazlin all take the stand as witnesses at the inquest to determine if there were any underhand tactics being used to conceal the truth. Ummah also does not rule out organising mass peoples rallies to demand justice for Adib if there is no positive action from those responsible, he was quoted saying in the report. The group also said a petition would be set up and sent to the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong and the prime minister demanding the removal of Thomas as the AG. Related Articles AGC takes priority in representing govt agencies, IGP says after lawyer withdraws from Adibs inquest Muslim lawyers group wants AGCs explanation on why lawyer quit Adib inquest Adibs family seeks explanation, shocked by lawyers withdrawal iKon is the first act to be announced for WkndFest Vol 1: KPop Edition. Courtesy of Twitter/wkndfest PETALING JAYA, May 27 Malaysian K-Pop fans, rejoice! Kuala Lumpur will play host to a full-fledged K-Pop festival will that will feature some seven huge names from South Korea for the first time. Christened WkndFest Vol 1: KPop Edition, the event scheduled for September 1 has already announced popular K-Pop boyband iKon as the first performers for the festival. "Sarangeul haetta uriga manna.." Please welcome iKON to our stage at WKNDFEST Vol 1: KPOP Edition. iKONICs, get your KONBAT ready! We have 3 more groups to be revealed in our Phase 1 lineup. Stay tuned. pic.twitter.com/M2fxfBhQQ6 W K N D F E S T (@wkndfest) May 24, 2019 This will be the third performance in Malaysia for the seven-member group, with their last appearance here in October last year as part of their iKON 2018 Continue Tour stopover. Tickets to go on sale for the first phase, which is after four performers are announced, are priced RM588, RM788 and RM888 The event, scheduled for September 1, is organised by WkndFest in partnership with Livescape. For more info, click here or follow @wkndfest on Facebook and Twitter for updates. French President Emmanuel Macron welcomes Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Elysee Palace in Paris French President Emmanuel Macron welcomes Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France, May 27, 2019. REUTERS/Charles Platiau MADRID (Reuters) - Spain's acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez met on Monday in Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the results of the European parliamentary elections, Sanchez's office said. During a dinner in the Elysee Palace, the two leaders discussed the allocation of top jobs in parliament and their rejection of the far-right, it added. "They also analysed the institutional renewal and they agree that new posts need to reflect the new majority in the European Parliament," a statement of the Spanish PM office said. Sanchez's Socialist party (PSOE) finished first in Spain in the European election. Marine Le Pen's far-right Rassemblement National won most votes in France but the margin of victory over Macron's liberal party was narrow. After Sunday's election, a coalition of the conservative European People's Party and the Socialists no longer has a majority in the European Parliament, meaning that they may have to rely on the liberals. (Reporting by Belen Carreno; Writing by Paul Day and Joan Faus; editing by John Stonestreet and Sonya Hepinstall) The donation was presented at a buka puasa event in Teluk Ewa, attended by Langkawi MP Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. Pictures courtesy of Yayasan MRCB PETALING JAYA, May 28 The month of Ramadan is all about giving back to the community and helping those in need. In Langkawis rural area of Teluk Ewa, 2,000 underprivileged students and 100 less fortunate families received RM90,000 from Yayasan MRCB on Friday. Yayasan MRCB chairperson Datin Jasmine Abdullah Heng presented the contribution at a buka puasa event at Masjid Nurus Salam in Teluk Ewa attended by some 3,000 guests. Prime Minister and Langkawi MP Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was also present. The contribution by the Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhads philanthropic and corporate responsibility arm was a gesture to improve the academic performance of those from disadvantaged backgrounds and to provide financial aid to less fortunate families during Ramadan. The 2,000 students were from SMK Ayer Hangat, SK Ewa and SK Penghulu Ahmad located in Teluk Ewa. Jasmine said Yayasan MRCB has been instrumental in helping underprivileged students and communities in need since its inception in 2015. Yayasan MRCB chairperson Datin Jasmine Abdullah Heng (centre) has been helping underprivileged students and communities in need since 2015 with impactful programmes. We truly believe that every person deserves a chance. That is why we focus on impactful programmes involving education and on improving infrastructure in schools, she said in a press release. She added that their past efforts included conducting educational programmes and providing mobile clinic services for the Orang Asli, implementing life-changing programmes for youths with disabilities, providing temporary accommodation for those caring for family members with prolonged illnesses and refurbishing schools for special needs children. Jasmine added that the foundations main aim was to ensure that those with limited resources have access to the opportunities they need to succeed. Although newly established, Yayasan MRCB has contributed more than RM500,000 to help students in need across Malaysia. As part of the foundations plans this year, Yayasan MRCB said it would continue to develop more programmes to assist underprivileged students and the less fortunate. Related Articles Central Sugars Refinery brings sweet Raya joy, new clothes to 100 needy children Kes Najib: Dana RM42j direkod program CSR, kata bekas pegawai Ihsan Perdana MRCBs shares up following revival of Bandar Malaysia project In the first of a series on the trade war, Keegan Elmer looks at why China is resisting US demands to cut back on agricultural subsidies. For Han Yahui in the farming town of Ulanhot in Inner Mongolia, the opening of Chinas soybean market to imports in the late 1990s was a harbinger of things to come. I witnessed how our industry [almost] collapsed because of cheap imports, Han said. Han runs a rural cooperative specialising in organic farming of wheat, soybean and rice on about 133 hectares (328 acres) in northeast China. She is one of up to 200 million farmers in China who rely on government subsidies and other aid to buy new farm equipment and to produce strategic crops. Hans cooperative, for example, receives 300 yuan (US$43.50) in annual government subsidies for every mu 666 square metres of soybeans they plant. Government subsidies are very important to help cover our labour costs, she said. The subsidies make sure that we wont lose money. I dont want to see our farmers make nothing after a year of hard work. After all, farming is still a major source of income for people who live in rural China today. Fast forward and those subsidies are one of the US targets in its trade war with China as Washington puts pressure on Beijing to cut back support for the agricultural sector. But if Beijing were to bow to those demands, its bottom lines of ensuring the security of the countrys food supply and social stability in the countryside would be under threat. The latest round of US-China trade talks in Washington broke down in early May. Washington blamed Beijing for reneging on promises, and raised tariffs on US$200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10 to 25 per cent, reigniting the tariff war that many had thought was close to ending. China struck back with its own retaliatory tariffs on US$60 billion of US goods, zeroing in, as it had before, on US agricultural products, of which China is a major buyer. Story continues There is no clear account from either side of what specific stumbling blocks caused the breakdown in the talks, but those with knowledge of the matter have said that disagreements over intellectual property protection and Chinas state subsidies for industry were key sticking points. In agriculture, the US pushed China to drop price supports on wheat, corn and other key products, on which Chinese farmers rely to stay afloat. After the latest round of talks in Washington, Chinas chief negotiator, Vice-Premier Liu He, told selected Chinese media that Beijing had not reneged on promises made, adding that the differences lay in matters of principle. One of those differences is very likely Beijings support for farmers. While China has long been gradually liberalising its agricultural market and opening it up to imports, Beijing may have felt that the US was pushing it to do too much, too fast. Farmers and rural society were critical to the Communist Party when the Peoples Republic was founded in 1949. At that time, more than 80 per cent of the countrys population were farmers, a proportion that has since nearly reversed, with around a third of the population farming to some extent. Many of Chinas migrant workers are part-time farmers, with jobs in the city but relying on agriculture to some degree. During the countrys transition into an industrial powerhouse and the worlds second-largest economy over the last few decades, China, like many industrialising countries, has gone from relying on taxing agricultural production for most of its revenue to increasingly subsidising farmers. Today, China offers a variety of subsidies to the agricultural industry, including price supports, where the government steps in to buy certain crops, like corn and wheat, when their prices fall below a certain level. Lower support would allow US farmers to export more crops to China. Washington has been clear about its demands that Beijing end unfair subsidies to its farmers, and expand quotas to allow more imports of foreign farm products. US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly demanded that China buy more products from American farmers, in hopes of reducing the gaping US trade deficit. The US considers agricultural products one of the top American exports to China that could expand relatively easily. Insiders say the US has also pushed Beijing hard to completely drop its market price supports and instead rely on other forms of subsidies, such as direct payments to farmers. China is acutely aware that with limited land, water and other natural resources, it has to rely more on imports. If it is just about buying more from the US, China has no problem doing that, a Chinese source familiar with the trade discussions said. But the US side is trying to force us to give up on agricultural subsidies altogether. This is impossible and unnecessary. Impossible because no country with a population the size of Chinas can give up on food security. Washington has long found the policy of market price supports to be inefficient, keeping China growing wheat, corn and some kinds of rice that could be more cheaply bought from the US and other trading partners, according to Darci Vetter, former chief agricultural negotiator under US president Barack Obama. It would not surprise me if we were really pushing China to move away from direct price supports into other forms of support. It also wouldnt surprise me if China was asking for significant periods of time in order to make that happen, and to transfer the system away from that, Vetter said. In addition to pressure in bilateral negotiations, Washington has tried to force Beijings hand over farm supports at the World Trade Organisation. The US has won two key cases against Chinas agricultural protections this year. In February, a dispute settlement panel ruled that Chinas support for Indica (long-grain) rice, Japonica (short- and medium-grain) rice, and wheat were above the levels allowed by its WTO commitments. In April, the same panel found Chinas tariff-rate quotas on rice, wheat and corn were also not in line with WTO rules. Vetter said that while dropping these supports would cause some job losses in those agricultural sectors, China should be prepared to live up to WTO standards. They have made these commitments not only to us, but to other countries, a long time ago, and its something they should have been aware of and planned for its implications, she said. In response to US pressure, China has already boosted domestic production of some crops hit by the trade war, and in March increased payments to farmers for corn, while maintaining high subsidies for soybean production. But Yan Hairong, professor of development studies at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, said the shift was largely symbolic. China has become greatly dependent on agricultural imports, and could not hope in the near future to replace dependence on US products without restructuring mass consumption, Yan said. While some protections remain high, China had been gradually removing many of its subsidies for major agricultural products. But the start of the trade war put some of these moves on hold. Every signal we had is that China was going to drop minimum purchase prices for wheat but it has now become a bargaining chip in the trade war, said Even Pay, an agricultural analyst at the China Policy consulting group. While Beijing and Washington are likely to reach a deal under which China would buy more US agricultural products and slowly come to terms on fewer state controls, Chinas red lines on jobs and food security could still spoil future negotiations. They have this need to keep peace in the countryside and ensure rural areas are prosperous, but they also have a need for much greater efficiency in agriculture, Vetter said. Its a kind of constant tension that agriculture authorities are trying to balance. This balance is all too personal to Zhu Lin, a cotton farmer in Korla, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. Zhu worries constantly about how his crop will be affected by the weather and changes in global markets including the months-long trade war between Beijing and Washington. But for years, the one constant source of support for farmers, no matter what happened, has been government subsidies. Today, Chinese farmers like Han and Zhu hope the Chinese government stands firm and does not give in to Washingtons demands. I have done this for more than 10 years, Zhu said. I wont get rich for growing cotton but I wont starve, either. When the year is bad, government subsidies are up and vice versa. The government will not let us starve but we wont be rich, either. Additional reporting by Zhuang Pinghui and Mandy Zuo The second part in this series will look at how Chinas energy security needs affect its trade talks with the US More from South China Morning Post: This article Why Chinas dependence on farm subsidies is an obstacle to a trade war deal with the US first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2019. Top Image: Pink Dot Singapore Last week, I discovered that I had been living the first 20 years, four months and 10 days of my lifethat is to say, my whole life until last weekin complete and total darkness. I fed the neighbourhood mynahs with cat food. I ate biryani with chopsticks. I had been so ignorant. Then, a colleague posed the following question to me, opening my eyes to the beauty of the light. He saidand Ill never forget thisDid you hear about Tosh Rock? And I repliedIll never forget this, eitherIs that igneous or metamorphic? His answer? Sedimentary, my dear Watson. Ahead of this years annual Pink Dot event, the Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) was caught off-guard by the resurfacing of homophobic social media posts made by an ambassador several years ago. As we all know by now, the ambassador in question, faced with immense pressure from members of the LGBTQ community, turned in his ambassadorship some days later in a tearful online message. The silver screen, in the form of now-infamous director Jack Neo, stumbled across Tosh Rock Zhang in 2012. His performance as a hard-bitten tough-as-nails platoon sergeant earned him the award of The New Papers Breakout Star that year. Smash cut to seven years later, and musician/actor Tosh is announced as one of Pink Dots ambassadors for 2019. But who would have guessed that an actor who got his break playing an unapologetic hive of toxic masculinity would turn out to have espoused childishly homophobic views at roughly the same time? The hubbub is now over, with Zhangs social media suspension forming the final bookend for this chapter. The question now is: Who will replace him? Who will be the Prince (or Princess, or Non-Binary Royal) that was promised? Weve got a few ideas. Sam See Last year, we got the chance to speak with stand-up comedian Sam See, who also happens to be a member of the gay community. As a stand-up comedian and emcee, Sam definitely possesses the performance-artist chops of any musician/actor/Youtuber, and then some. Story continues Plus, Sam isnt your run-of-the-mill starving stand-up. Hes performed internationally, appeared on television, and most recently featured in an episode of Comedy Centrals hit Jim Jefferies Show. Unlike other personalities, Sam never shies away from his sexuality. In fact, he may be a bit too gay for Pink Dot ambassadorshipenthusiastically watching gay anal fisting videos isnt exactly the sort of behaviour you want out of someone meant to bridge the gap between Pink Dot and The Little Red Dot. Then again, maybe such a shock is exactly what social conservatives need to be sufficiently jolted out of their prude woollen stockings. My BMT Encik This is slightly out of left field, but bear with me. At first glance, my encik appeared a strident homophobe, the very picture of patriarchal masculinity. He was old, boisterous, and rude, automatically placing him in a poor position to empathise with the suffering of others or adapt his thinking to the modern age. But as I observed his habits, his behaviourswhat made him tickhe began to display a more colourful side dare I say, a more Pink side. First off, my encik had a habit of pacing up and down the company while clutching his pace stick. Yes, he gripped his large teak phallus tightly, occasionally swapping it out for a darker shade of brown or even black. His skilled manipulation of that hinged rod; his hands, firm but with a feather-light touch; his penetrating manner of pointing and yelling with that hard wood, dominating the parade squareit smacked of acceptance. Then there were his curious turns of phrase. He always referred to me and my bunk bed-mate as suckcock buddies, but without a hint of contempt or derision. Instead, he expected suckcock buddies to assist and support one anothera remarkably progressive stance on homosexual coupling. My encik is a classic example of dont judge a book by its cover, a man who accepts and cares for the gay community in National Service. He would make an excellent Pink Dot ambassador. William Farquhar Now, I know what youre thinking. Hes Scottish, hes a colonialist! He probably hated sodomy as much as the next pompous British arse! Most importantly, hes dead! And to all those arguments, I say: so what? That just means good ol Bill wont be able to pull a fast one on us once hes promoted. After a long and successful career in the East India Company, Bill followed Raffles to Singapore, and was appointed First Resident (i.e. Guvnor) of the new colony. Bills orders were simple: Follow Raffles plan, build Singapore as per his blueprint. With that, Raffles departed from the new colony. Of course, when Raffles returned three years later, we all know what transpired: the argument, the falling-out, and the public dispute that lasted until after Raffles death, when Raffles widow published his memoirs and Billy-long-lived contested their accuracy in the press. Yes, their bitter feud featured opium and prostitution, but it was largely over city planning. In short, Bill should be a Pink Dot ambassador, as he is best remembered for the most iconic gay break-up in Singapore historyall because two men could not agree on where to lay pipe. Li Huanwu In Hard Truths To Keep Singapore Going, Lee Kuan Yew espoused the belief that homosexuality should not be criminalised. Last week, LKYs grandson, Mr Li Huanwu, got married to his partner, Dr Heng Yirui, in South Africa. His father, Lee Hsien Yang, remarked that [LKY] would have been thrilled at the announcement. LKY was right about some things; he was also wrong about some things. But it is simply impossible to ignore the enormous weight his opinion has on any issue of substance in modern Singapore, simply out of respect for his tremendous role in shaping the nation. MM Lee had previously admitted to holding the belief that homosexuality was a matter of choice, only to change his mind over the years, after considering the weight of scientific opinion. Perhaps it would not be the best fit for this years Pink Dot theme of discrimination, but Mr Huanwus ambassador-ship would be a constant reminder of the fact that attitudes in our city-state have changed, and continue to change from the bottom of the totem pole (Tosh The Pebble Zhang) to the very topthose in the high halls of governance. If MM Lee could change his mind, so can the rest of us. Are you sexually attracted to pace sticks? Do you, too, love obscure geology puns? Is that portrait of Farquhar getting you going? Tell us how you lost all your friends at community@ricemedia.co. The post 4 People Who Would Make A Better Pink Dot Ambassador Than Tosh Zhang appeared first on RICE. Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, the country's largest pharmaceutical company, has reported 27.20 per cent growth in consolidated net profit at Rs 2,665.42 crore as compared to Rs 2,095.70 crore in the last fiscal. "Consolidated net sales increased to Rs 28,686 crore from Rs 28,085.94 crore reported in the financial year 2017-18, registering a growth of 10 per cent," Sun Pharmaceutical Industries said in a filing to the Bombay Stock Exchange. India sales stood at Rs 7,348 crore, down by 8 per cent over last year, due to the one-time impact of approximately Rs 1,085 crore related to the change in distribution for domestic business, it said. Sun Pharma holds approximately 8.2 per cent market share in the over Rs 131,000 crore Indian pharmaceutical market as per AIOCD AWACS March-2019 report. While sales in the US were up 12% year-on-year at USD 1,526 million, sales in emerging markets stood at USD 767 million, up by 2 per cent over the full year last year. The operating profit (EBITDA) of Sun Pharma stood at Rs 5,928 crore for the financial year ended March 31, 2019, while EBITDA margin was 21 per cent. Also Read:PNB net loss narrows to Rs 9,975.49 crore in FY19 on lower provisions; asset quality improves During the January-March quarter, Sun Pharma's net profit declined to Rs 635.88 crore from Rs 1,342.50 crore in the same quarter last year. "The net profit for Q4 FY19 is not comparable with Q4 of last year due to the one-time impact of distribution change for India business during this quarter as well as the one-time tax benefit of Rs 259 crore for same quarter during the last year," it said in the exchange filing. Revenue from operations was at Rs 7,044.26 crore versus Rs 6,711.01 crore in the corresponding quarter last year, up by 5 per cent. Commenting on financial performance, Dilip Shanghvi, Managing Director of the Company said, "In spite of the one-time impact for India business, our full year sales have grown by double digits. We continue to focus on executing our global specialty strategy." "Ilumya is expected to gradually gain traction in US in FY20 while Cequa launch is expected in the coming months. At the same time, we are strengthening our core operations, optimizing the cost structure and enhancing our overall efficiencies," he added. Also Read:SpiceJet posts net loss of Rs 316.08 crore in FY19 due to weak rupee, high fuel prices Sun Pharma's board has recommended payment of dividend of Rs 2.75 per equity share of Rs 1 each of the company for the year ended March 31, 2019, subject to the shareholders' approval at the annual general meeting. Ahead of earnings announcement, shares of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries closed trade at Rs 412.90 apiece, down 0.43 per cent, on the Bombay Stock Exchange. Edited by Chitranjan Kumar Looks like ondeh ondeh is the flavor of the month in Singapore, since various brands have been offering their own dessert spin on the dish. The green, pandan-flavored glutinous rice balls, traditionally covered in grated coconut and filled with liquid palm sugar for a burst of sweetness, are popping up across the island in the form of cakes, chocolate bars, and ice cream sticks. First up, Ikeas series of festive cakes, which are available till June 4. The ondeh ondeh rendition ($39) features pandan sponge, slatherings of gula melaka, coconut cream, and a generous coating of coconut flakes. But if thats not your thing, the Swedish furniture giant also has a D24 durian chendol cake ($49) made of durian cream, gula melaka, and pandan jelly on the menu, alongside a rich pulut hitam cake ($45) studded with glutinous rice grains beneath a sweet glaze and coconut cream icing. Next up, Kit Kats special edition ondeh ondeh flavor from its so-called chocolatory in Singapore. This ones apparently made with white confectionery, coconut, and white cream on the wafers, and goes for $7.50 per box on RedMart. People seem to be loving its pandan-infused goodness so far, despite its heftier than usual price tag. But if youre looking to beat the heat, ondeh ondeh also comes in frozen form, thanks to Kings Potong ice cream. The frosty treats, consisting of familiar pandan and coconut flavors, ooze a gooey gula melaka center once bitten into. You can get one for $1.20 or share the love with a $6.90 six-pack. This article, Food trend alert: Ondeh ondeh flavors in Ikea cakes, Kit Kat bars, and Potong ice cream sticks, originally appeared on Coconuts, Asia's leading alternative media company. Want more Coconuts? Sign up for our newsletters! Malaysian musician and former Tune Talk CEO Jason Lo slammed the "irresponsible remarks" made in The Star's report. (PHOTO: Facebook / Jason Lo) SINGAPORE Malaysian artist and former telco chief executive officer Jason Lo has taken to social media in response to allegations that he had, among other things, threatened his ex-wife and molested his own children. On Tuesday (28 May), the former Tune Talk CEO denied the alleged acts in a long, rambling Facebook post. He also threatened to sue The Star newspaper for publishing an expose in which it made the sexual abuse claims. READ MORE: Woman who suffers from condition that causes saggy skin has become a body positive Instagram star Food trend alert: Ondeh ondeh flavors in Ikea cakes, Kit Kat bars, and Potong ice cream sticks The dailys report on Saturday, headlined Ex-CEO allegedly molested own kids, stated that an unnamed former telco chief had been arrested for trespassing and making threats against his ex-wife. It also highlighted that the ex-wife had lodged 15 police reports against Lo since 2015 in which she accused him of molesting their children. The pair share joint custody of their two daughters and a son. Evil claims Describing the molest claims as evil, Lo slammed The Star for its report. I applaud risk taking, but not the way lemmings take risks. You think it was daring and bold but unfortunately it was also untrue, he wrote. He added: You saw a video? I saw a video too. Why were there not arrests then? Are you one of the people who believe that the quantity of police reports made correlates to some form of factual proof? Lo also claimed that his children had been subjected to brainwashing involving them being repeatedly told that Daddy is a bad man. He also shared screenshots of a WhatsApp conversation between himself and a journalist from The Star, along with an image of a 2015 medical report from the University Malaya Medical Centre that appeared to involve one of his daughters. Jason had a few hit singles like, Evening News, Operator The Line Is Dead taken from his Days Without Dawn album (1999), which also received airplay in Singaporean radio shows. "Therefore, give glad tidings to My servants, who hear advice and follow the best thereof." Quran 39:17-18. Muhammadan Bounties Ahl al-Bayt Book Sheikhy Notes Books and Ebooks There are over seventy titles to choose from. Ranging from Hajj, Hanafi fiqh, 40 hadith collections, commentaries on 17 benefits of tribulation and so on. For a full list of Sheikhy Notes paperback and Ebooks available on Kindle, please click here There are over seventy titles to choose from. Ranging from Hajj, Hanafi fiqh, 40 hadith collections, commentaries on 17 benefits of tribulation and so on. Donate You can donate to Sheikhy Notes charity which aims at setting up a teaching school and producing quality books for Muslims to learn their religion. Please click on this link https://www.paypal.com/uk/fundraiser/charity/2392770 Search This Blog Sheikhy Archive Abu Al Abbas Al Mursi said, "All the Prophets were created from mercy: however our Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is mercy itself." Straight Translations http://straighttranslations.blogspot.co.uk/ See Youtube channel Treasures of Sheikhy Notes https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL7y92-BMpL4jyx3Qa1F3Aw Please see link to our other blog which contains unpublished texts and books that have not been published on this blog. Most are free to download and all are free to read. Ibn Hazm al-Andalusi (May Allah have mercy upon him) said, "If you look deeply into worldly matters you will become melancholy and will end up reflecting upon the ephemeral nature of everything here below, and the fact that truth lies only in striving for the hereafter, since every ambition to which you might cling will end in tears; either the goal is snatched from you, or you have to give the attempt up before you reach it. One of these two endings is inevitable except the search for God the Almighty the Powerful. Then the result is always joy, both immediate and eternal. The immediate joy is because you stop worrying about things which usually worry people; this leads to an increase in the respect paid to you by friends and enemies alike. The eternal joy is the joy of paradise." In Pursuit of Virtue by Ibn Hazm p.121 Sheikhy Readers Abu Hassan As-Shadhali said, "Love entails God's taking his servant's heart away from everything but him." The Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) said, "Whoever increases in knowledge and does not increase in guidance, only increases in distance from Allah." Jesus (upon him peace) said, "The world is a bridge, so pass over it to the next world , but do not try to build on it." Ibn Ata'llah said, "Suffice it as a recompense to you for obedience, that he has judged you worthy of obedience." Hikam number 90 Ibn Ata'llah said, "No one is a companion of yours except the one who knowing your defects, is your companion and that is only the generous Lord. Hikam number 135. Imam Qusheri had a favourite student and people noticed that he liked him, others students became jealous. So he set all of his students a test, kill a bird but do it where nobody is watching. The students came back one by one with their birds killed except the favourite student. He said, I couldnt find any spot where no one was looking. The other students stopped and realised why he liked him so much. (He always knew that Allah Subhanu wa taala was looking at him.) 'Ubayd al-Kindi al-Kufi reported that he heard 'Ali ibn Abi Talib said, "The cursers are cursed." FEEDJIT Live Traffic Feed (I can see you!) Live Traffic Stats Ibn Ata'llah said, People praise you for what they suppose is in you, but you must blame your soul for what you know is in you. Hikam number 142 Ibn Ata'llah said, Sometimes he gives whilst depriving you and sometimes he deprives you, in giving. Hikam number 83 Al-Aqida at-Tahawiah by Imam Abu Jafr At-Atahawi. "Belief consists of: belief in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Last day and belief that the Decree both the good and the bad, the sweet and the bitter are all from Allah Ta'ala." Number 66. Your daily look at the top videos covering the biggest news and the stories that will be tal OMAHA -- Water releases from Gavins Point Dam will be increased Tuesday and Wednesday because of heavy rainfall over a large portion of the Missouri River basin above Sioux City. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said releases will be raised by 5,000 cubic feet per second to 65,000 cfs on Tuesday and to 70,000 cfs on Wednesday. Rainfall in Nebraska, South Dakota and central North Dakota for the past seven days has been 200 percent to 600 percent of normal, leading to higher inflows to South Dakota reservoirs. Increasing Gavins Point releases will allow more water to pass through the system and slow the rise at reservoirs upriver from Gavins Point, near Yankton, South Dakota. "We will continue to monitor conditions along the length of the Missouri River and make adjustments as necessary," John Remus, chief of the Missouri River Basin Water Management Division, said in a news release. Releases will remain higher than average into the fall because of the high volumes of runoff this spring must be evacuated in advance of the 2020 runoff season, the corps said. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 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. HARTINGTON, Neb. -- A judge has ruled that prosecutors may use evidence of other potential sexual assaults against the former Randolph, Nebraska, mayor. District Judge Paul Vaughan denied a defense motion to prohibit the use of statements by the alleged victim of other acts she says were committed by Dwayne Schutt. Schutt has pleaded not guilty in Cedar County District Court to four counts of third-degree sexual assault of a child and one count of child abuse. Schutt, 63, is accused of touching a girl, who was 14 years old or younger, from about Aug. 18, 2011, to May 17, 2013. In one incident, according to court documents, Schutt laid on top of the girl, tried to take her clothes off and touched her. He was arrested in July 2017 during his second four-year term as mayor. He lost his bid for re-election in November. Vaughan ruled Friday that the prosecution can present evidence of other acts Schutt may have committed in relation to a sexual assault upon the alleged victim at other locations than those described in the charges currently filed. However, Vaughan ruled that the victim would not be able to testify about things she did not have a clear memory about, citing a deposition in which the victim wasn't sure if some of the acts actually happened or if they were something she dreamed. Vaughan also ruled that the prosecution would not be able to use the contents of a cell phone Schutt turned in to investigators as evidence. There was no proof that Schutt owned the phone at the time the evidence the state wanted to introduce was downloaded onto the phone, Vaughan said. Love 0 Funny 0 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 U.S. Marshals Service Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force is seeking the publics help in locating the following person: * Tyrone Larush, 18. He is 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs 145 pounds. Larush has several tattoos, including a rosary around his neck as well as a cross with words on his left hand. Larush is wanted by the Dakota County Sheriffs Office for probation violation. He is on probation after being convicted of carrying a concealed weapon and felony possession of drugs. Anyone with information can call the Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force at 712-252-0211, email Siouxlands.Mostwanted@usdoj.gov or text the keyword TEN99 and the tip to Tip411. Love 14 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. LE MARS, Iowa Two women who were shot in a Sunday morning robbery attempt at the Le Mars Hy-Vee Gas Station, 1201 12th Ave. SW, remain in stable condition in a Sioux City hospital, Le Mars Assistant Police Chief Justin Daale said Tuesday. At 6:02 a.m. Sunday, a suspect identified as Oscar Gutierrez, 26, of Le Mars, displayed a 9mm handgun, demanding money from the two clerks working behind the counter. After demanding money, Gutierrez allegedly shot Faith Laskie, 18, of Le Mars, and Ashley Storesund, 29, of Le Mars, both in the abdomen. Daale said Gutierrez obtained no money before or after shooting both clerks. Gutierrez then fled in a 1989 Buick Electra that was registered in his name. Responding officers arrived on the scene within minutes of the 911 call. The two victims were attended to by an off-duty nurse who was buying gas at the time of the robbery in addition to a Hy-Vee employee, who was also an EMT. Both victims were initially transported to Floyd Valley Healthcare in Le Mars by Le Mars Ambulance. They were later transported to MercyOne Siouxland in Sioux City for their injuries. One woman was transported to Sioux City by Mercy Air Care and the other by Le Mars Ambulance. According to Daale, a positive ID of Gutierrez was developed from his vehicle plate registration, jail record and previous law enforcement contact that were due to minor criminal offenses. Daale said a search was conducted at Gutierrezs Le Mars residence in preparation for a search warrant. Area law enforcement departments were asked to assist. Shortly after 8 a.m., Gutierrez was found in South Sioux City. He was discovered in his vehicle with a lethal self-inflicted gunshot wound by South Sioux City Police. Le Mars Police Officer Jeff Kramer said Gutierrez was originally from Utah and had lived in Le Mars for a few years. While the investigation is ongoing, there has been no link made between Gutierrez and the two victims. The Le Mars Police Department received assistance from Le Mars Ambulance, Plymouth County Sheriffs Office, Iowa State Patrol, the Tri-County Emergency Response team and the South Sioux City Police Department. Love 6 Funny 2 Wow 6 Sad 7 Angry 7 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 Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a plea challenging the Telangana High court verdict which gave the power to the concerned authorities to arrest a person in cases of Goods and Services (GST) tax evasion. The vacation bench comprising the Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Aniruddha Bose had dismissed the Special Leave Petition (SLP). The apex court said that it is not inclined to interfere with the April 18 judgement of the High Court. "Having heard counsel for the petitioner and upon perusing the relevant material, we are not inclined to interfere. The special leave petition is accordingly dismissed," the bench said. On April 18, the Telangana High Court, in its order had said that it is "not willing to grant any relief against arrest to the petitioners in light of summons issued by Superintendent (anti-evasion) of the Hyderabad GST Commissionerate under the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017". "The government had informed the court that petitioners have allegedly incorporated various firms in partnership, and then on the basis of certain invoices, claimed input tax credit allegedly in the absence of any physical receipt depicting the nature of goods", reported the Economic Times. It was further alleged that the companies have claimed a fraudulent input tax credit of as much as Rs 224.05 crore. It may be noted that these petitions were filed by some private companies, their top officials and others. (Edited by: Nehal Solanki) Also read: BT Insight: All you need to know about quant funds Also read: 100-day agenda: DPIIT proposes incentive package to woo investments PENDER, Neb. -- Kurt Kaser has been interviewed by well-known English journalist and broadcaster Piers Morgan. A crew of German journalists is scheduled to come to Kaser's rural Pender farm this week. Reporters from across the country and the world have called or visited Kaser to talk about how he cut through muscle and flesh with his pocketknife to free his left leg from a grain auger last month. Google Kaser's name and you'll find dozens of media accounts of his ordeal that have appeared worldwide. Most people who hear Kaser's story likely wonder just how the 63-year-old farmer was able to basically amputate his own leg, then crawl to his office to call for help. In a very matter-of-fact way, Kaser said doesn't understand what the fuss has been about since the first story about his accident aired on an Omaha TV station. "They just came in and took a few pictures," he said of the TV crew. "Nobody imagined (what would happen next). It just exploded." Why? Why has this story taken on a life of its own? He and wife Lori have asked each other that question. Neither has an answer. "We've talked and talked about this, and I don't know," he said. "I can't explain it." Maybe it's because the extreme measure Kaser took on April 19 is so hard to fathom. A quick summary: Kaser was moving grain into a bin on his farm. Some time ago, he had cut a hole, about 1 foot square, in the screen covering the auger's end. Corn started to dump out of the truck too fast for the auger to carry. In a hurry, Kaser stepped up to close the truck's hopper. Though the hole in the screen was covered with corn, Kaser's foot went right through it and into the rotating auger. "From there it sucked me in. It kept pulling me in," Kaser said. He saw bone protruding from his leg, the empty joint where his foot had been attached. He kept struggling. "I just couldn't get out, and I didn't know how long I was going to stay conscious. It got to the point where I said I've got to do something. That's when I thought of my pocketknife." Kaser used it to cut through his damaged muscles, tissue and nerves, free his leg and pull away from the auger. He couldn't find his cell phone, so, after first shutting down the tractor running the auger and the grain truck, he dragged himself about 200 feet to his office and called his son Adam, a member of Pender's fire and rescue squad. Adam arrived quickly, followed by an ambulance. Kaser never lost consciousness, though he doesn't remember the brief stop at the Pender hospital before he was lifted into a helicopter and flown to Bryan Medical Center in Lincoln, Nebraska. After surgery to trim his broken bones and close the wound six inches or so below his knee, Kaser spent a week in the hospital before spending two weeks at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital in Lincoln. While there, a public relations worker asked Kaser if she could pitch his story to the media. The story aired in Omaha on May 10, the day Kaser was discharged. By the next day, the phone at home was ringing off the hook. It seemed that every reporter in the area and beyond wanted to share his story. He's heard from major TV networks, some of the biggest papers in the country. Calls have come from the aforementioned Morgan and from as far away as India. TV crews have come to shoot video of him on the farm, asked him to show them the auger. He's accommodated every request he can. "I can't just say no now," he said. It's not a hassle, he said. He can't work, so he doesn't have anything else to do. It helps pass the time. He's heard from other people who have lost legs in accidents. One woman seemed to need someone to commiserate with, and Kaser was happy to listen. Another man offered advice and encouragement. Through it all, Kaser's kept a sense of humor, dropping one-liners into the conversation about his condition. He's at ease, knowing that with Adam and the hired help, his 1,500 acres of corn and beans, plus the 3,000 head of hogs and a trucking company, will be taken care of, though you can tell Kaser would rather be outside than in a makeshift bedroom on the ground floor of his home. "This is the first time in how many years I haven't started the pigs myself," said Kaser, a third-generation farmer who's been working the family farm since 1975. He says it without any hint of self-pity. He'll be able to walk again someday, he said. Other patients he saw at Madonna will spend the rest of their lives in wheelchairs. Kaser faces at least one more surgery. Sometime in the next six to 12 months, once his leg has healed, he'll get a prosthetic and begin learning how to walk again. "I'm just lucky I've got this much of a stub," he said, rubbing and scratching his bandaged leg. There's a lesson in here somewhere, he said. Maybe it's to remind farmers that if they hurry and take shortcuts as he did, bad things can and will happen. Or maybe his actions to save himself and the positive attitude he's displayed while recovering can inspire others. Given all the stories about Kaser in the media, people won't have to search too hard to find whatever that message is. Even if Kaser's not sure why they want to hear about him in the first place. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 3 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. Four scientists make creativity a key to communicating their research Posted on 28 May 2019 by greenman3610 This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections This months This is Not Cool original video, produced by independent videographer and YCC regular contributor Peter Sinclair, explores the creative science communication initiatives of four different scientists. Ecohydrologist, researcher, and science storyteller Emily Fairfax of the University of Colorado studies the intersection of water and ecosystems. Its very important that my science has an impact in the world, Fairfax says. I take all my data and try to send it out to the public in very compelling ways. She recalls being so scared of all the jargon earlier in her career: I didnt want to say a lot of different words, because what if I say them wrong? What if I use them wrong? Working on beavers and their forest environment, she decided to shorten her story to one sentence: And that was that beaver ponds persist through wildfires.' If nothing else, she wanted her audience to leave with at least that message firmly in mind. With her infectious enthusiasm, the video shows a toy beaver persisting through a wildfire and then boosting an Im Okay!! flag to assure fearful viewers that the beaver survives. The Sinclair video also delves into the creative painting of glaciologist and artist Jill Pelto in remote glacial environments. Her scientist-father long encouraged her to include data in her art work after a field season in the North Cascades in Washington. One-time cartoonist and founder of the Skeptical Science website John Cook, now at George Mason University in Virginia, describes how he uses cartoons to make climate change information more accessible. I could be the first scientist to ever calculate the P value of a cartoons funniness, Cook says, adding that the cartoons are statistically significant and funny. Cook ran an experiment to test whether logic-based or humor-based corrections to climate misinformation were more effective, and more importantly, do either of them work. Cook says both significantly neutralize misinformation, but the cartoons get an order of magnitude more shares than the logic-based. The fourth interviewee in the video, software engineer Kevin Pluck of Manchester, United Kingdom, relates how he one day came across complex sea ice data and wondered what would it look like if he treated it visually. I spent an evening doing that, and I put it on my Twitter feed, and it just blew up, going viral. If you have an idea, just try it, Fairfax encourages fellow scientists. This should be fun. This should be exciting to try to portray your research outside of the standard manuscript or conference presentation. It should all be fun, the whole time. It never felt like a high-stakes thing. Science already can feel high-stakes, so dont try to make communicating your science quite so high-stakes. You should be having fun. It should be creative, it should be an outlet for you to communicate, not another hoop to jump through. Amazon is reportedly back in the market for office space in New York City, which, if true, is a sweet bit of vindication for critics of the companys whole HQ2 fracas. In February, Amazon dropped its plans to build a massive office complex in Queens amid political blowback over a package of state and city subsidies the project would have received. Now, according to the New York Post, the company is shopping for real estate on the West Side of Manhattan. The tech giant has been in talks with owners of two shiny new skyscrapers located just one block west of Penn Station the newly built One Manhattan West and its soon-to-be sister project, Two Manhattan West, the paper reports, citing sources. The company, which already has 5,000 employees in the city, is apparently looking for 100,000 square feet or much more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That footprint is significantly smaller than the 4 million to 8 million square feet of space Amazon planned to build out for its HQ2 project. But the fact that the company is still planning to grow its New York presence without a large, specially crafted subsidy package seems to prove the basic point many of the deals critics made, which is that major cities with large pools of business and engineering talent do not need to stoop to corporate welfare in order to attract major tech companies, which tend to go where they can find enough employees. The sweeteners that New York offered Jeff Bezos to move to Queenssome of which, to be fair, would have been open to any company by lawmay have encouraged him to plan a bigger immediate expansion in the New York area. But the much more in the Post report implies that Amazon may well add more space and workers in New York over time. Meanwhile, the real estate the the company was eyeing in Long Island City, which was already one of the fastest growing residential neighborhoods in the country, can still be used for another productive project like housing, and we dont have to worry about the bad precedent of HQ2 encouraging other companies to sweat the state and city for tax breaks. Personally, Im feeling pretty good about what I wrote last year: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even if the incentive package [Cuomo] gave Amazon convinced it to pick New York over, say, Dallas, something else probably would have grown in the companys absence. The counterfactual to consider isnt Amazon or nothing. Its probably Amazon or a bunch of new housing, or some other tech company and a smaller Amazon office. The Post is framing its scoop as a giant black eye for left-wing politicians who opposed the HQ2 deal. Amazons renewed focus on Manhattan so soon after dropping its plans for Queens is an apparent rebuke to the politicians who helped scuttle Amazons plans to build a 4 million-square-foot campus in LIC, including US Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, sources said, the paper writes. It is unclear who those sources are, or if they speak for the company, but the line isnt especially convincing since, again, having Amazon lease open office space in Manhattan while leaving more room for rental development in Queens is a pretty happy ending for all involved. But if tech giants want to own New Yorks libs by moving to the city without billions in subsidies, more power to them. Even if youre not already familiar with the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, Hadestown warns audiences at the very beginning that what follows is a sad song, a sad tale, a tragedy. Still, director Rachel Chavkin says, the shows endingin which, as in the myth, a doubtful Orpheus turns back to look at his lover and so condemns her to Hadestown foreverelicits gasps and full-fledged cries of No! from theatergoers. The Broadway run of Hadestown, adapted from the folk opera by Anais Mitchell, has been nominated for 14 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, where it will compete against three comedies and a jukebox musical. And Chavkin, whose previous work includes Natasha, Pierre, & the Great Comet of 1812, has once again been nominated for Best Direction of a Musicalthe only woman among the 10 directing nominees this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Slate spoke to Chavkin about the value of tragedy, developing the shows unique visual style, and how Trumps election has altered the way a key song has been received. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. Marissa Martinelli: Tell me a little bit about how you and Anais Mitchell began working together. Rachel Chavkin: Anais has been working on this since 2006 as a kind of DIY community theater project in Vermont, but we actually met in 2012, after the piece had become this extraordinary music event, via the studio album. She had just begun working with Dale Franzen, one of our producers, and they were looking for a directing partner to help move the piece forward. She saw my production, the original production of Great Comet at Ars Nova in a tiny, tiny 87-seat space, and she flipped for it. We happened to have a mutual friend in common, a drummer, who put us in touch, and we spent the winter of 2012 and spring of 2013 kind of going on a couple of dates, because its such a huge endeavor to make a new musical together, and we really wanted to try as best as possible to make sure the fit is right. But also, the truth is, you cant really know how youre going to collaborate with someone until you start work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We had what ended up becoming a 4-hour Skype session. After this series of, like, dates, where we just talked in the abstract, I finally said, Look, can I just tell you what I would do if I was directing? And she in return was like, oh my God, yes, please. We suddenly broke through the bullshit and the politeness, and I began feeding back on the album. Advertisement Advertisement Actually we got into our first little spat on that call, because the songs Gone, Im Gone and When the Chips Are Down are in a different order on the album. Oh, thats right, theyre flipped. Yeah, theyre totally flipped. First, its Gone, Im Gone, and then it goes Chips. I was like, you cant do that. That makes no sense dramatically. And she was like, what are you talking about? It makes total sense musically. But the action of Chips seems to be about them bullying Eurydice into making a really bad choice, and if shes already made the choice, then you dont have dramatic action. It was an important first lesson, because of course Anais is this brilliant songwriter who comes from the folk world, where theres a lot of storytelling songs, but in terms of thinking about larger dramatic arcs, that is kind of what I brought to the table. And so that little argument ended up being the first real moment of the adaptation process. Obviously, the music has a very distinctive sound, but how did the visuals of the show come together? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Anais language theres already a huge amount of imagery. Theres the imagery, first and foremost, of the Rust Belt, and the heavily industrialized nation invoked when you picture Hadestown. Hades sings the lyric, and our work is never done, my children, my children, which gives this sense of just nonstop building. It felt like there were a number of different ways that we could go. One was very shiny capitalism and vacuous polish. That certainly wouldnt have been invalid, but because theres so much Americana in the music, I felt much more drawn to Pittsburgh and vast stretches of Ohio, and upstate New York, and Louisiana, these heavy rusted places that are big machines, and not about prettiness or sheen but about muscle. 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. Rachel Hauck, our set designer, did a ton of research, as did I. The places that we were most drawn to were oil refineries and steel mills, as well as, of course, coal mines. Theres this brilliant double entendre of Hadestown both being in the ground, as in what we think of when we bury people, but also coal mining. Rachel found this beautiful, terrifying image very early on, of a miner, I believe in Chile, descending these very rickety stairs into the darkness, and that for me became the central image of Wait for Me. The very, very, very first image I ever shared with Anais on that 4-hour Skype call was actually this image of these swinging lamps, and I think thats in part because as a musicals director, Im always thinking about not in any way duplicating what the music is already doing but amplifying it somehow through the visual storytelling. Wait for Me has that beautiful surging chorus, which made me think of dolphin movements, when theyre going really fast, and the rhythm of these lamps swinging forward. Those lamps during Wait for Me actually swing out all the way into the audience. Advertisement Advertisement Rachel and I very purposely in the final Broadway design wanted to puncture the proscenium, so the front line of the stage comes out to both mirror the circles that are so prevalent in our set to help extend into the audience. The show started in the round off Broadway. The original production was totally I call it the wooden womb. It was almost totally in the round, and it was like a Greek amphitheater. Appropriate, under the circumstances. Yeah, the very first images, before we got to do any of the heavy industry and stuff that defines our set now, the first images were the swinging lamps and the idea of gathering around a tree to hear a story; thats inspired by Thomas Paines Common Sense. Im totally butchering it, but at one point early on he says that the thing that you need for democracy is a tree to gather around. Knowing what stories were in ancient Greece, and knowing what mythology isthis is very Joseph Campbell, but like, myths are the stories we tell ourselves about ourselves, and thats essentially how we know who we are, by retelling and reframing these stories. Part of why these stories survive is theyre like prisms where different things show up in them depending on the light of the current day. So it felt really good to be under a big-ass tree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a chalkboard onstage, like above the piano, that I couldnt make out what was written on it. No, its a secret for people who get to come onstage. Can I know the secret? Theres various drink options. We made them all up, I think, drunk. Late, late at night. Theres the Four Seasons Green Shot, the Bottomless Road to Hell, the Lovers Desire. You can order Aphrodites Dilemma, Cerberus Triple Snap, Demeters Fury, Evelyns Double Punch Evelyn? Evelyn is the name of the double-headed mic that Hermes uses during the show. Most of them are singular to the world of Hadestown, but one is very much an homage to New Orleans and Louisiana, which has been the most important physical inspiration for the set. Which is Abita Amber. Thats a fun little Easter egg. Advertisement Humor has actually been a very important thing for us in the design process, because Anais writing is so earnest. Right, this isnt just any myth youre telling. Its a tragedy, something that sets Hadestown apart from the other Best Musical nominees. Whats the value in tragedy? One is that tragedy, of course, prompts release. This gets now into very old Greek theater, but the idea of catharsis and working through something together and the tragedy as a crucible that the audience travels through as a community and mourns together. I think a lot of modern society in America isnt so good at mourning. Advertisement Ive talked about this word with Andre [de Shields], who plays Hermes, a lot, but I think there something is so medicinal in that purgation. Thats how the Greeks used that word, catharsis, both spiritually and physicallywhich of course wasnt separate for themas medicinal. Even if youre not familiar with the Greek myths, Hermes in particular keeps telling the audience that the tale doesnt have a happy ending. Advertisement Advertisement We warn you. We warn you while the trombone is doing its joyful thing. Its a tragedy, but it ends not there but on the beginning of another cycle, and particularly the promise that spring will come again. Its through the cycle of new lovers meeting and falling in love for the first time that this old couple, Hades and Persephone, find resurrection and that the world itself is ready for this resurrection every year. Despite the fact that Hadestown is this incredibly tragic tale, there is this incredible amount of hope and celebration in the face of tragedy. And I think that actually, ultimately, makes the celebration all that much more potent. The show ends with the beginning of that next cycle and a promise to keep telling the story, which is exactly what you all do, literally, eight times a week. Is that a metaphor for show business? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not necessarily showbiz per se, though I think thats also apt. I think its a metaphor for humanity. Humans, as long as weve been humans, have been telling stories around a campfire. Right? And we tell the same stories over and over. This idea that we will persist and we will keep falling in love and we will keep fighting for change, even if that fight, on any given day, ends in sorrow and loss. Even with the warning, do you notice reactions in the audience when Orpheus turns around? Oh. Oh yeah. Surprise? People gasp. Weve had teenagers shout things, which is really fun. What are they shouting? There are shouts of the word No! And then we had one kid in the audience who shouted, Youre a jerk for going back! Advertisement Well, they have a point, since he did promise to come save her in Wait for Me, which you mentioned earlier. The song has all the qualities of a classic Act One finale showstopper, so much so that I was sure intermission would follow. But theres another song after it: Why We Build the Wall. Advertisement You know what, we tried that. We actually had exactly that debate, after London. And we rehearsed for weeks and weeks with the idea that the intermission would come after Wait for Me. And Wait for Me absolutely, obviously, brought down the house and the act, and it still does today. What more than anything didnt feel good to us about that was keeping veiled the shows politics until Act Two. The show is not in any way dogmatic in its politics, but it is a show with a very strong beating political heart. Advertisement We wanted the audience certainly thinking about Orpheus immortal journey, to change the laws of the space-time continuum to bring his lover back, which I think is what is happening in Wait for Me. But equally, we wanted the audience to understand that Orpheus and Eurydice arent the only people who are going to be affected by the leap of faith that Orpheus takes. Theres also all the workers of Hadestown. And so we felt like we wanted to end with that larger theme, in addition to the spectacularness of Wait for Me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obviously Why We Build the Wall predates the Trump administration by many years. But Im curious about whether, when Trump made building a wall a cornerstone of his campaign, it changed how you view the song. When we were doing it in 2016, you know, Trump was just emerging as the Republican front-runner. But he was still, I think, in the mainstream both media and popular consensus, not taken seriously. He was still dismissed as a joke. I recall. Why We Build the Wall played powerfully, but as powerful satire, almost, at New York Theatre Workshop. It was creepy but not necessarily root-shaking then. I talked a lot about this with Amber [Gray, who plays Persephone] and the cast sees this onstage, but now there are people weeping in the audience. Andre has called Anais a prophet. Whats extraordinary about that song is its simplicity, its purity of thought. If that song was written in response to the current administration, it would be in some ways more complicated, more contorted in its thought, probably working harder to make the point. In its current form, its so simple, the promise that if we just keep building the wall, then we will always have work, and we will never have to see poverty. Its truly chilling. The reactions in the audience, and again, amongst the cast and myself as well, are so much more terrified than they were in even just 2016. Advertisement Advertisement The show is obviously political in other ways as well, with Orpheus more or less unionizing hell, and the allusions to climate change. Certainly. This is a world radically out of balance, where industrialization is driven by fear and insecurity. Weve thought about this for many years now: Is Hades, at his core, a capitalist? Is he an industrialist? Is he a builder? And what Patrick [Page, who plays Hades] fairly early and mightily came to was, no, at his core, Hades is a husband. Hes doing everything because he fears that his wife will leave him and not think enough of him and lose interest. Climate change and this feeling that the industrial world has gotten totally out of hand is fueled by this very human insecurity. Advertisement Advertisement On the flip side, it, for better and for worse, really underscores the point of how much strength, as both individuals and as a community, it will require to sort of calm down and stop this ceaseless building, and think about balance and restoration. Youre the only woman nominated in the directing categories at the Tonys this year Sure am. and the shows creative and producing teams are female-dominated. What effect do you think that has had on the content of the show itself, if any? Advertisement Advertisement First and foremost, it meant that when we were forging the character of Eurydice, in particularand its one of the things we love about Eva Noblezadais we didnt want to make her a victim. In the original myth, she is a victim, but in this piece, she chooses to go down to Hadestown. Ultimately, its a terrible choice. I dont want to speak to any specifics, but with a lot of the male-led teams, theres a compensation about making female characters not weak, which is, they just make them strong instead of making them complicated. We were very interested in Eurydice being a willful character, driven by her own desires, but not necessarily blameless in her story. I think that we were able to get to that level of complexity in part because of the female team. More than anything, the process is radically different. There really was a relentlessness of the team that had us tinkering and working on things up until the very last moment. Its a lot of stabbing in the dark sometimes, and I think being a part of a very, very female-led team meant that we sort of could just keep moving forward but also never stop working through the collaboration process. Thats important, because the collaboration process on a new musical is really fucking hard. This essay is adapted from Dont Read Poetry: A Book About How to Read Poems, out now from Basic Books. Poetry is for everyone, but it cant be the same thing, or do the same thing, for everyone. Poems can console or upset, soothe or baffle, set the table for a fancy dinner or kick the table over and demand that we start again. It depends how you read them, and it depends what poem. As Americas youth poet laureate, Kara Jackson, has recently written, the most dangerous thing about how we treat poetry is how we let only old white men have it. Whats true for poetry in general is no less true for particular kinds of poems, techniques, and forms. And if thats true for modern poems and for poems in new forms (say, those that resemble text messages), its no less true for poems in very traditional formsthe sonnet most of all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sonnet isnt the oldest form in English, but it may be the most recognizable, the one we encounter first in middle and high schools, the one Shakespeare used 154 times. To write a sonnet at all, these dayslet alone a book of sonnetsis to speak to, or talk back to, the past. If you know what a sonnet is14 lines, usually, 10 syllables each; rhymed, usually; divided into two parts, or else four, with a coupletyou probably also know that theyre centuries old. But you may not know how thoroughly modern poets have reinvented the form. And no living American poet has done so more assiduously than Terrance Hayes, whose 2018 book American Sonnets for My Past and Future Assassin amounts to a primer on how to reshape an old form. Advertisement Advertisement Hayes has taken upor taken downthe sonnet sporadically throughout his career, most famously with a tour de force called Sonnet in 2002s Hip Logic; the poem comprises fourteen repetitions of the same line, We cut the watermelon into smiles. Hayess fourteen iterations play on racist stereotypes that associate rural black Americans with watermelon and fixed grins, and on the assumption that all sonnets say or mean the same thing. He also points back to the black writer Paul Laurence Dunbars famous stanzaic lyric of 1896: We wear the mask that grins and lies. Advertisement But American Sonnets is something bigger than that. Usually in a collection of sonnets each will have a different title, or (as in Shakespeare) no title at all. Instead, each poem here has, over and over, the same title: American Sonnet for My Past and Future Assassin. Hayes 14-line projects react to the poets own frustration with his fame (which eats up his time with worthy obligations, isolates him, and cannot give him peace), as well as reacting fiercely to America under Trump. Hayes new sonnets also replace conventional rhyme schemes with much denser sonic arrangements, often untethered to line ends. One of them insults a critic who cannot distinguish a blackbird from a raven: You dont know how/ To describe your own face. In the mirror you coo/ Gibberish where the shape of your mouth escapes you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hayess sonnets know how sonnets are supposed to sound, how older sonnets do sound, with the rhymes at the end; hes stuffing his own sonnets full of midline rhymes instead, then omitting rhymes where a reader might expect them, while keeping the expectations in mind. (Hayes credits the California poet Wanda Coleman with the invention of the American Sonnet, which need not rhyme.) Another sonnet lets loose on politicians whose words are all lies or meaningless sounds: Junk country, stump speech. The umpteenth boast/ Stumps our toe. The umpteenth falsehood stumps/ Our elbows & eyeballs, our nose & Nos, woes & whoas. The cascade of open vowels, the almost show-offy feel in these repetitions (Hayes uses the word umpteenth eight times in 14 lines) suggest a fed-up citizen, and also a writer whose expertise with words adds to his moral authority: Somebody who can write like that knows, if anybody knows, what words can do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Hayes isnt just conducting sonic experiments. Nor is he just representing his anger at Trump and Trumpism. (A book of sonnets that did nothing else would start to repeat itself fast.) Hes also inverting traditional stories about the power and the tragedy in the making of lyric poems. In the most famous Western myth on that subject, the not-quite-divine musician Orpheus sang so beautifully that he persuaded the god of the underworld to let him bring his late wife back from the dead, then lost her when he turned around to look at her on her way back to life. That myth proposes that lyric poetry is at base erotic, about attachment; that it is first and last about grief or lack or loss; that it feels magical that it can contradict facts (for example, the fact that death is forever); and, maybe, that it is really about itselftrue poets might not so much sing about their love as love in order to sing. The first sonnet in American Sonnets for My Past and Future Assassin concludes in an anecdote about Orpheus: Advertisement Advertisement Orpheus was alone when he invented writing. His manic drawing became a kind of writing when he sent His beloved a sketch of an eye with an X struck through it. He meant I am blind without you. She thought he meant I never want to see you again. It is possible he meant that too. Advertisement Does he want his beloved back? Or does he want to write poems? That X, that crossed-out eye, that visible sign of blindness, that letter that could be a number or an algebraic variable, reflects a severe division, a poet who wants mutually exclusive things. A later sonnet decides that Eurydice is actually the poet, not Orpheus. Her muse/ Has his back to her with his ear bent to his own heart. Advertisement Literary historyand Western historyin this view is a series of misattributions, where readers and listeners and writers credit the captor, the pursuer, the abductor, with what the captive has made up. Resemblances to the history of pop music, where white people take credit for black forms, are surely not coincidental. Nor is it a coincidence that the sonneta form compared (by William Wordsworth) to nuns cells, to a voluntary imprisonmentappeals to a poet whose mother was a prison guard, whose cousin has been incarcerated, who has written over and over, brilliantly, about the carceral state. (Hayes has also recently published a fine book-length study of the poet Etheridge Knight, whose first and best-known book is Poems from Prison.) Advertisement Wordsworth made light of the kind of confinement that sonnets and their stanzas represent: In truth, the prison unto which we doom/ Ourselves, no prison is; and hence for me Within the Sonnets scanty plot of ground. Hayes seeks alternative models for the sonnet and its pleasurable, melancholy confinement: It is not so much a cell as an envelope of wireless chatter, a grave, an orphans house, the sweat & rancor of a Fish & Chicken Shack, the broken phone booth I passed in the Village/ Beside a puddle of what could have been crushed tomatoes. Hayess sonnets may feel cramped or uncomfortable, but they can nourish us; we can leave at any time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Is poetic technique a means of liberation? Or does adopting inherited techniques amount to surrender, and to confinement? In some sense the answer is always both. Another one of Hayes American Sonnets takes the ideas of body as prison and poetic form as both liberation and confinement further still. The poet, fed up with himself and with his society, tells himself, or part of himself: Advertisement I lock you in an American sonnet that is part prison, Part panic closet, a little room in a house set aflame. I lock your persona in a dream-inducing sleeper hold. I make you a box of darkness with a bird in its heart. Lyric poetrythe poet imaginesworks by finding words for someones passions, which could also be your own: it can get you out of your one situation, your one body, your one life, though it will not literally free you from a literal jail. It may take up many aspirations to freedom, from the traditions of prison writing to the tradition of existential rebellion against everything that exists. It needs, in that case, something to rebel against. And for Hayesas for poets before himthe sonnet serves exceptionally well. Slate has relationships with various online retailers. If you buy something through our links, Slate may earn an affiliate commission. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change. All prices were up to date at the time of publication. Lets just get this out of the way early: Yes, the NC-17 rating for This Ones for the Ladies is justified. You will see full frontal, and it will be impressive. But it will not be what audiences talk about the most after seeing this documentary. The strippers dance moves and abdominal muscles are the spoonfuls of sugar that help make the films slices of American life easier to stomach. Youll go into the film ready to see some shiny, rippling flesh, and you will not be disappointed, but youll leave thinking about community and justice. Advertisement Directed by Gene Graham, the movie follows not only a select crew of exotic dancers but also the community of women who follow and support them. Twins Tyga and Raw Dog are founding members of the New Jersey Nasty Boyz, a troupe that includes entertainers like Young Rider, Satan, Mr. Capable, Fever, and lesbian dom Blaze. Sweet Tea serves as a crowd-pleasing master of ceremonies. Meanwhile, loyal fans with nicknames like Double Trouble, Poundcake, and C-Pudding show their love with pithy one-liners, sponsored events, and perhaps most important, money where their mouths want to go. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its easy to compare the documentary to the Magic Mike franchise, loosely based on the former life of star Channing Tatum. Like those movies, This Ones for the Ladies is best viewed with a group of friends who can gasp and giggle together. And these films all have stripper with a heart of gold storylines, dedicating significant chunks of screen time to the dancers entrepreneurial dreams of how they will pull themselves up by their G-strings to elevate themselves out of dire circumstances. Advertisement Advertisement But where the Magic Mike movies focus on the power of male friendships, This One drills into the dancers backgrounds. Fever glows with pride when he reveals he is the first in his familys generation to graduate high school. Tyga and Raw Dog give a tour of the shuttered housing projects they once called home, worming through locked fences and telling stories about the effects of their mothers drug addiction on their lives. The brothers talk about the homophobia that almost kept them from pursuing the career that ultimately provided the means to get her sober. Young Rider reveals that his flashy showmanship is a direct result of growing up watching his uncle perform drag. And Blaze voices her frustration when male dancers resent her appearance at shows, or when her mother futilely pressures her to marry a man. The dancers may have a variety of origin stories, but the women who pay to see them only see them as superheroes. 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. Those patrons are profiled just as lovingly. One of them, Michele, is a white speech pathologist whose father has long since given up on the idea that shell bring home a white man to marry. She has a special thing for Mr. Capable, sponsoring an event to raise money for Autism Speaks with him as the main attraction. C-Pudding, youth choir director, shudders and needs a special kind of timeout any time the dancer Satan is mentioned. Poundcake, married to Big Daddy, says she turns gay any time Blaze performs. Big Daddy has no problems with his wifes favorite pastime. The two joke that its why they have so many children. Advertisement Advertisement Youll go into the film ready to see some shiny, rippling flesh, and you will not be disappointed, but youll leave thinking about community and justice. With all of these characters, we learn the reasons why the escape offered by the booty shaking is so welcome. The women deal with the challenges of homelessness and police brutality, and the men sound off about the challenges of trying to make an honest living after incarceration. But dont think the documentary is another reason to bemoan the difficulties of black life in America. As soon as you feel the high from watching the entertainers dance and the women react wear off, and the lights begin to come up to reveal more painful realities, Tyga and Raw Dog tell an amusing anecdote about, say, turning themselves into a bowl of fruit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because of the films budget constraints, there is no easily recognizable music on the soundtrack, so dont expect to watch another equestrian routine to Ginuwines Pony. But director Gene Graham pieced in music from various SoundCloud artists and worked tirelessly to sync the dancers movements to the songs, and it pays off. Between the entertainers mesmerizing moves and womens arresting storytelling, the need for popular music disappears. This Ones for the Ladies slips in commentary about black American life as smoothly as a dollar bill slides into a waistband. Watch it to learn more about the lives of exotic dancers, but know that youll fall in love with the women supporting them, too. Its a great film for a girls night out, with plenty of fun to make up for any uncomfortable truths and no hangover. The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) declared the HSC or Class 12th results today. As many as 85.88 per cent students have cleared the exam this year. Moreover, over 90 per cent girls have cleared the HSC exam. Students can check their results on the official website of the board - mahresult.nic.in. Apart from the official website, students can also check their results on examresults.net and indiaresults.com. The pass percentage in Mumbai region has slipped down to 83.85 per cent from 87.44 per cent last year. Nagpur has registered the least pass percentage of 82.81 per cent. Nishika, the first specially-abled student to take the HSC examination on an iPad, has secured 73 per cent marks. Over 14 lakh students took the Environment Education paper this year. A total of 99.99 per cent have cleared environment paper. Only 17 students have failed in the paper. The MSBSHSE conducted the HSC examination from Februuary 21 to March 20. Here's how to check MSBSHSE HSC Result 2019, once it is announced: Step-1: Visit the official website of the Board. Step-2: Click on the link which says 'HSC result 2019'. Step-3: Enter your details like name and roll number. Step-4: Click on 'Submit'. Step-5: MSBSHSE HSC Result 2019 will be displayed on screen. Step-6: Download the result and take a print out for future references. Daniel Mallory Ortberg is online weekly to chat live with readers. Heres an edited transcript of this weeks chat. Daniel Mallory Ortberg: Hello, everyonelets chat. Q. Druggy grandma: My mother-in-law lived with us briefly a few months back. She was living with us because she had gotten back on drugs after five years of sobriety and almost died from stomach ulcers. We gave her a place to stay because she swore it was a one-time mistake caused by the man she was seeing at the time. She told all of us she was done with this man, who was letting her bleed to death on the bathroom floor. Advertisement A couple weeks ago, she received a large insurance settlement for a car accident. She left our house then and told us she was just going to pay off some debt and settle things with her dad before coming back to stay, but then she never came back. A few weeks passed, and we got a text message saying she was in town and wanted us to meet her new boyfriend. It turns out she was at a local casino and the new boyfriend is actually the same man who supposedly got her back on drugs and actually did leave her to die alone. It now seems clear she is also committing insurance fraud by gambling the money away instead of paying back the insurance and will likely go back to prison at some point if she is caught. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My question is, how do we explain what is happening to our young children? They are 4 and 6 and have been wondering what happened to Grandma. They ask regularly why she doesnt stay with us anymore and why she never comes around. We dont want her or this man back in our lives. My mother-in-law does not respect anyones boundaries, so she may well show up on our porch with this guy. She could easily show up anywhere they are this summer, and I need them to understand that they should not go with her at all. How can we get them to understand? A: I think its time to find an age-appropriate way of describing addiction to the kidssomething along the lines of Grandma loves you, but she has a problem called addiction, which means sometimes shes not well, and which means we cant see her as often as we might like. That feels a bit clumsy and stiltedyou might want to consult your pediatrician for more information about how to discuss addiction with kids under 10. Advertisement Q. Pay for cake: I used to be a semiprofessional baker, so I volunteered to do the wedding cake for my cousins wedding with the stipulation they would pay for materials. Bridezilla doesnt begin to cover it. Six weeks to the wedding, she demanded six completely different cakes from chocolate to vegan. I made samples of them all and my cousin promised to reimburse me. The cost of materials topped over $500 since the bride changed her mindagain and againafter I bought materials. I sent the bill after the honeymoon. Nothing. I followed up and got rudely shut down. The bride was upset I would do this to family, and my cousin just shrugged. My aunt asked me what I expected and hung up on me when I said I didnt expect my family to lie to me and rob me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am completely pissed off. My mother died when I was young, so my aunt and cousin are more like my second mom and little brother. I work in a field where $500 is not an indifferent amount to me. I also have complete documentation. I will win if I sue. I dont want to, but the indifference of my family here when I went to the wall to give them my best (and deal with the princess bride) hurts. It really hurts. What do I do? A: The pain and frustration at being squeezed for free cake, and then yelled at for trying to adhere to the terms of your agreement, is real and understandable. My worry for you is that the time and expense of going to small claims court over a $500 bill will quickly eat up whatever money you may be awarded. I think the best thing to do is mourn the fact that your cousin, his wife, and your aunt have all revealed themselves to be largely uninterested in treating you with respect and kindness and give them a wide berth from now on. Advertisement How to Get Advice From Prudie: Send questions for publication to prudence@slate.com. (Questions may be edited.) Advertisement Advertisement Join the live chat Mondays at noon. Submit your questions and comments here before or during the discussion. Call the voicemail of the Dear Prudence podcast at 401-371-DEAR (3327) to hear your question answered on a future episode of the show. Q. A queerie: I am a nonbinary queer dating a wonderful woman who identifies as a lesbian. I love her and weve been having a great time together. However, she hates the term queer when used in reference to herself. She fully supports other people using it, and fully supports using it for me, but whenever its used in the general sense of a group including her, she balks. Shes made it clear that shes not part of the queer community, will never join me in queer spaces since she isnt queer and doesnt belong there and doesnt want to intrude, and, while fully supporting the queer community, doesnt see herself as part of it. Advertisement Advertisement Prudie, being queer is a huge thing for me. Its a major part of my identity, and while she hasnt asked me to stop using it for myself, only for her, I cant help but be betrayed. This has been the source of a lot of arguments for us, since I try to explain why she should use it and she says Im disrespecting her identity by trying to force a term onto her that she doesnt identify as, which isnt the way I see it at all. How can I make her see the light and start accepting that she is queer? Or is this a lost cause, and should I end it to find someone whos more aligned with my opinions toward such an important word? Advertisement Advertisement A: I think whenever you find yourself in the position of saying, How can I convince my partner to identify differently than she does? youre not doing her any favors. She clearly understands her lesbianism as compatible with your queerness and doesnt harbor any animosity toward your identity or your friends who share it, so I think you should take her at her word and let go of the idea that you can convince her to adopt that term for herself if you can only explain it better. I get that you dont see yourself as trying to force her to do anything, but even if you think her reasons for not calling herself queer arent good ones, theyre still her reasons and you need to respect them. Language like How can I make her see the light is not good, I think; shes not a lesbian because shes insufficiently enlightened. Shes a lesbian because shes a lesbian. If you cant see yourself accepting this situation, then I think breaking up is probably the best thing for the two of you. But if you can try to at least approach this with curiosity and respect, there may be an opportunity for mutual support, solidarity, and difference here. I wish you the best of luck with whatever option you choose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Q. Family secrets: My mother refuses to keep a confidence and proudly has said for years that there are no secrets in her marriage. I learned early on that I could never ask my mother for advice or guidance without it filtering down directly to my dad. The man is the proverbial bull in a china shop. At 12, I confessed to my mom I had a crush on an older boy at our church; she told my father and he cornered the kid and lectured him not to dare get handsy with me. The boy didnt even know I existed, but the incident followed me until high school. I am 20 now and my mother complains that I am blocking her out of my life and we never talk like we used to. I feel guilty and I hate it. I love my mom and would love to confide in her, but I cant. I dont want my father to know about my sex life, or love life, or basically anything that has not been socially sanitized. He doesnt need to know and my mom cant get that. If I try to bring this up, she gets defensive and asks me if I am doing anything my father would be ashamed of if he knew. My father wants me to be a virgin until the day I die (but still give him grandkids!). Our relationship is not based on true emotional intimacy and I am OK with that, but it hurts me I cant have one with my mom. Should I do anything here? Advertisement Advertisement A: You do not need to feel guilty for setting reasonable limits based on your mothers past behavior! I realize just saying that wont vaporize your guilt, but I hope you can bear that in mind when youre tempted to buy in to her train of thought and blame yourself. If you feel up to it, you might say, Mom, youre right that we dont always talk like we used to. Thats because when Ive shared private information with you in the past, youve told Dad against my wishes, and its put me in some very embarrassing situations. If you want to rebuild trust with me, you would need to acknowledge that I dont always want to share things with both of you. It would take time and wed need to start slowly. If youre not willing to commit to that, then well have to talk about other things that dont involve my personal life. The choice is yours. Advertisement Advertisement If you dont want to hash that all out with herand I can certainly understand why you wouldnt want tothen you can just say, Im sorry to hear that, Mom; Im not always going to be able to share everything you want from me. I hope you can respect it, even if you dont agree with me. Lets talk about something else. Have you seen any good movies lately? What are you up to this weekend? Advertisement Advertisement Q. Re: Druggy grandma: The letter writer is also concerned about the kids physical safety because Grandma may try to get them to go away with her. Please let their camps, caregivers, friends parents and babysitters, etc., know that Grandma is not allowed to be with the kids. Period. Think about getting a restraining order against her and the druggie boyfriend. Also, any criminal insurance fraud proceedings may solve this for you. Advertisement A: Yes, absolutelymake sure everyone else who helps you look after your kids is aware that Grandma does not have your permission to visit or take them home, and make sure everyones on the same page. Q. Friend obsession: My friend C and I have been best friends since kindergarten. (Were in our mid-20s now.) Our friendship has waxed and waned over the years, but we still remain good friends and talk to and see each other several times a week. Heres the problem: Im obsessed with her. I think I always have been, because Ive always admired her life (even when we were kids), but now its gotten to the extreme. I spend hours looking at her social media and rereading our texts, and Im constantly daydreaming about different scenarios. Im even a little jealous of our other friends for getting to spend time with her. I dont think shes noticedyet (shes definitely the type to say something if she did)but Im terrified of ruining our friendship. Sometimes I think I should just end the friendship altogether. For the record, Ive never physically stalked her or anything, and my obsession is purely platonic. How do I stop this? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A: I know you say your obsession is purely platonic, but I think its worth revisiting that premise! If you spend a lot of time daydreaming about different scenariosyouve left that part awfully vague!I think its time to consider the possibility that you have a crush on your friend and are possibly even in love with her. That doesnt necessarily mean youll want to ask her out, but I dont think you should be so quick to foreclose on the very idea. Since you know that, for now at least, you dont want to say anything to her, I think most of the work ahead of you is going to be internal. My read on your letter is that youre both women and that you havent previously considered yourself as being attracted to women; it might be time to revisit some of that. Advertisement If this reads as totally wrongheaded to you (and/or if youre not a woman), then I think you still have plenty of options. As long as you find it easy to maintain reasonable boundaries and dont actually start stalking her or making her uncomfortable, you dont have to punish yourself for having an intensely platonic crush on a friend. Let those feelings inspire something creative, or keep a journal, or try to invest in some of your other slightly less fraught, friendships. You are allowed to have feelings, even occasionally extreme ones. Advertisement Advertisement Q. Brothers will: My brother died a few months ago. We both are estranged from our parents and he put me down as his beneficiary for everything. He didnt change it after we had a falling-out last year. I thought his new girlfriend was trouble: never married, with two kids by different men and a record. There wasnt a funeral since he donated his body to science. I was such a wreck that I paid a lawyer to deal with everything. His girlfriend left some hostile and foul messages for me on social media, so my immediate reaction was screw her. I put all his immediate belongings in storage and parked his motorcycle and car in my garage. Advertisement Advertisement I have finally worked up the nerve to go throw out my brothers belongings. There was a ring and printed-out papers about adoption and artwork done by the kids calling him Dad. I feel sick, like gravity has been turned off. Everything I built up in my head was a lie and I dont know how to make it right. I dont know if I can. There wasnt much money left, so I just stuffed it in a savings account. Advertisement What should I do? My first thought was to sell the car and motorcycle and give the money to his girlfriend, but she has been convicted of check fraud. (I Googled her.) Should I put in a trust for her kids and send her the ring? My boyfriend tells me if my brother had serious, he would have changed his will. The Dad art put a hook in my heartI want to help these kids. I dont know what is best. Advertisement A: I think the guiding principle here ought to be not What should my brother have done while he was alive to prevent this situation, and how can I use his failure to do so as an excuse to be less-than-thorough as his executor and beneficiary? but What do I think my brother wanted while he was alive, and is it safe or reasonable for me to carry some version of his wishes out now? Your brother may not have known he was going to die and thought he had plenty of time to change his will. The art and the adoption papers are, I think, sufficient evidence that he intended to provide for these kids as a parent would. I think your proposal to set up a trust for the kids and return the ring to his girlfriend is a good one. You dont need to contact her directly if you think shes likely to just yell at you again; talk with a lawyer about the best way to make sure the money goes to the kids and to hand the ring over on your behalf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Q. Should I do this? Am I crazy to actually go through with this? A longtime Instagram follower of mine sent me a private message the other day complimenting me on my photography skills. We got to talking and he then admitted he also likes me. Since then, we text, video-chat, and share our respective lives through the powers of social media daily. He lives in Brazil, I in the U.S. I am 15 years older than him. I am about to be 46. We seem to have common interests, have hit off really well, and have not done what many guys interested in me have asked for or sent nude photos. He claims to be single and not looking for marriage. He wants to come here to visit to see if he wants to live here permanently. I have thought about opening my home for a few weeks with him paying lodging, which could help me as I am between jobs and help him to save on hotel costs. He will be applying for a travel visa. Do you think I should? Advertisement A: I think it makes more sense to agree to meet for a date before you invite him to move in with you, even if its only temporarily. What if you two dont get along as well in person as you did on FaceTime? How much more awkward would it be to break up if he were staying with you? You can absolutely proceed with this guy, but maybe go from zero to 15 before you ramp up to 60. Get Prudie 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. Q. Re: Pay for cake: Its called small claims for a reason! It absolutely isnt expensive to file a claim, and if you do win, you can recoup court costs in addition to the debt that you are owed. Your aunt and cousin are being absolute asses, and I think you should file after giving them another month to respond. Advertisement Advertisement A: That is fair enough! My instinct here is that the money is less important to the letter writer than the feeling that their relatives dont really care about them, and no judge is going to be able to fix that. At the same time, $500 is $500, and if they want to file a few weeks from now, I certainly think they can. Its not like theyd be damaging an otherwise-fun relationshipthey already damaged it pretty thoroughly themselves. Q. Re: Brothers will: One option, depending on the kids current circumstances, is to use the remnants of your brothers estate to set up 529s or educational savings accounts for the kids. Then check in with other relatives and your parents and let them know. Dont pester anybody to contribute to the account beyond this. Just let them know, and people can make their own decisions from there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A: Thats a great idea, thank you; even if nobody else chips in itll feel meaningful to have given them the opportunity, I think. Q. Re: Pay for cake: I disagree strongly with Prudies approach on this one. The letter writer has said their cousin and aunt are basically their closest or only family. The letter writer is clearly hurt (as well as out of money). Losing ones family is sometimes necessary but its always a last resort, and nothing that the letter writer has said indicates that they want this or that the relationships were bad over a long period. So why not try to talk to the cousin and aunt at some point, explaining how you feel and that its not just or even mostly the expenseit was that you worked so hard and felt so hurt by the way you felt you were treated? The letter writer should ask themselves what is their goal right now, and if its to be heard, to heal their relationships with close family, and possibly to get some part of the financial loss, hopefully that can be done. Advertisement Advertisement A: Im getting a lot of responses to this effect, so Im happy to cheerfully reverse my initial advice and say that small claims court is a perfectly sound option, and worth pursuing; you might not ever get those relationships back but at least you can get your money. Spend it on something nice for yourselfI hope you get it. Discuss this column with Dear Prudence on his Facebook page! Classic Prudie Q. My mother-in-law hopes we die: My husband, our three young children, and I recently went on a vacation with my in-laws. We provided the accommodations. My mother-in-law tries to act more like our childrens mother than a grandmother. She loves her grandchildren, but she is very interfering, judgmental, and disrespectful to me and my husband. On this recent visit she brought a childrens book for our 5-year-old daughter that was missing the last two pages. The book was about a girl who visits her grandmother for the summer every year; my MIL wrote an ending with my daughter that said the girls parents died and she got to live with her grandmother forever. It was written like a happy ending! When we confronted her (away from the children) that it was inappropriate, she blamed our 5-year-old saying it was all her idea. I am so upset I cant even look at this woman; and now she is suggesting we get together again next month to go camping. What should we do? And find even more letters in the archive. Just before Memorial Day weekend, the Army posted a question to its Twitter followers, How has serving impacted you? The tweet was part of a thread honoring servicemembers and included a video of Pfc. Nathan Spencer, a scout with the Armys First Infantry Division. To serve something greater than myself, Spencer says in the video. The Armys afforded me the opportunity to do just that, to give to others, to protect the ones I love, and to better myself as a man and a warrior. The Army likely was hoping for messages in that vein, and it got them. But in the middle of people expressing pride in their service, many others posted of a much darker reality to military life, including tales of post-traumatic stress disorder, other health problems, and sexual assaults, to name a few. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How has serving impacted you? U.S. Army (@USArmy) May 23, 2019 I am a Navy vet, I was a happy person before I served, now I am broke apart, cant even work a full 30 days due to anxiety and depression, Jeffrey Scott wrote. I am in constant pain everyday. And I think about killing myself daily. Advertisement Advertisement I am a Navy vet, I was a happy person before I served, now I am broke apart, cant even work a full 30 days due to anxiety and depression, i have Fibromyalgia and nobody understands because I am a guy. I am in constant pain everyday. And I think about killing myself daily........ Jeffrey Scott (@Jscott916) May 25, 2019 Another answered the Armys question by referring to the Combat Cocktail, which includes PTSD, severe depression, anxiety. Isolation. Suicide attempts. Never ending rage. Serving cost me my relationship with my eldest son and my grandson, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Combat Cocktail: PTSD, severe depression, anxiety. Isolation. Suicide attempts. Never ending rage. It cost me my relationship with my eldest son and my grandson. It cost some of my men so much more. How did serving impact me? Ask my family. Sean P. (@SeanP_75) May 26, 2019 One Twitter user identifying herself as Karen replied to the Armys tweet by saying she lost her virginity by being raped in front of my peers at 19 and then got married to a nice guy who was part of my unit. But following the invasion of Iraq, he came home a changed man who beat the shit out of me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I lost my virginity by being raped in front of my peers at 19. Got married to a nice guy who was part of my unit. He was in the invasion of Iraq. Came home a changed man who beat the shit out of me. Hes convinced yall are stalking him and hes homeless so great job there! Karen (@educatorsresist) May 25, 2019 Karen was one of many women to detail instances of harassment and abuse while in the military. Another woman wrote that she was assaulted by one of my superiors. She reported him but nothing happened to him. Nothing. A year later, he stole a laptop and was then demoted. Im worth less than a laptop. Another woman wrote that she suffered from PTSD, depression, anxiety, nightmares due to sexual harassment during my service that nobody was ever held accountable for. Advertisement Advertisement Depression, anxiety, still cant deal well with loud noises. I was assaulted by one of my superiors. When I reported him, with witnesses to corroborate my story, nothing happened to him. Nothing. A year later, he stole a laptop and was then demoted. Im worth less than a laptop. schmox (@IvoryGazelle) May 25, 2019 Oh, ya know, PTSD, depression, anxiety, nightmares- all from sexual harassment during my service that nobody was ever held accountable for. The master chief who could have ended it (but didn't) is now CMC of an entire Navy Region, but I got kicked out for reporting harassment. Shentel Downes (@Ixtahb) May 26, 2019 Advertisement Some wrote about how they saw their loved ones deteriorate after serving. One mother said she was proud when her son signed up to serve. That young man with his whole life in front of him is now broken mentally and emotionally beyond recognition and the Army isnt helpful, she wrote. Another person wrote on behalf of her friend: My sweet friend David cant answer you. He committed suicide a few years ago after a couple tours of Afghanistan. Nathan wrote about how he found his mother in the closet after her tour in Aghanistan with a knife and how firework sounds still scare her. Its impacted me because my mom wont ever be the same mentally, he wrote. So thanks for that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a mother, I was proud of my son as he signed up to serve his country during his last year of High School. He served 3 deployments in Iraq. That young man with his whole life in front of him is now broken mentally and emotionally beyond recognition and the Army isn't helpful. aunttea (@AuntTea04) May 26, 2019 My sweet friend David cant answer you. He committed suicide a few years ago after a couple tours of Afghanistan. #MemorialDay2019 KrissyK (@krissyk262) May 25, 2019 Advertisement Found my mother in the closet after her tour in Afghanistan with a knife, shes still afraid of firework sounds. Its impacted me because my mom wont ever be the same mentally. So thanks for that. Nathan (@naathantyler_) May 27, 2019 Advertisement Although many characterized the replies to the tweet as a social media fail for the Army, others disagreed. Some say this thread back-fired but this is just the thread that is needed each memorial day so we remember the sacrifices military members and their families make and how we as a country need to understand the true cost of service and improve our support, Mike Schmidt wrote. Advertisement Some say this thread back-fired but this is just the thread that is needed each memorial day so we remember the sacrifices military members and their families make and how we as a country need to understand the true cost of service and improve our support. Mike Schmidt (@MikeSchmidt69) May 26, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement The Army thanked all those who contributed their story to the thread. As we honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice this weekend by remembering their service, we are also mindful of the fact that we have to take care of those who came back home with scars we cant see, the Army wrote. Advertisement To everyone who responded to this thread, thank you for sharing your story. Your stories are real, they matter, and they may help others in similar situations. The Army is committed to the health, safety, and well-being of our Soldiers. U.S. Army (@USArmy) May 25, 2019 Advertisement Over the weekend, President Donald Trump suggested that he trusted North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to keep his promise to Trump about the countrys nuclear program more than he trusted his own national security officials who have warned him about that program. It was just the latest example of Trump demonstrating disdain for the U.S. intelligence community and broader national security apparatus, but it came on the heels of a perhaps even scarier one. Trumps decision last week to hand over unilateral authority to declassify Americas intelligence secrets to an attorney general who continues to act as if hes Trumps personal lawyer threatens to endanger intelligence sources, frighten our allies, and irreparably harm our national security. Advertisement Late Thursday, at Attorney General William Barrs request, the president granted him carte blanche not only to obtain all assistance and information he desires from the intelligence community in support of his review of intelligence activities related to the 2016 election, but also to declassify any information he chooses toeven if that information was originally classified not by the Justice Department but by, say, the Central Intelligence Agency or National Security Agency. Barr doesnt even have to consult with the head of the intelligence agency or department whose information is at stake unless he deems it practicable. Trumps approach is out of sync with proper executive branch leadership and, more importantly, dangerous to American security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barr was not in government in early 2016 when red flags started to flutter about Russias successful attempts to meddle in our election, warnings that included Russian efforts to contact people associated with Trump. And he wasnt in government when those red flags were straining against their moorings. He wasnt part of any discussions or decisions, made in real time, about how to address the threat posed to the core of this countrys very democracy: free and fair elections without foreign influence. Now, rather than respectful deference to the women and men who had to make those decisions in the moment, Barr has demandedand been handedthe power to rummage through classified materials, second-guessing the judgment calls of those who have spent decades combating foreign intelligence threats. Its clear he intends to use that power for the benefit of his political patron, Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement This is just the latest manifestation of Trumps dismal view of our nations intelligence community. Barr, in his first three months as attorney general, has demonstrated that he is more interested in being Trumps lawyer than he is in being the American peoples lawyer. He released a four-page letter to Congress misleadingly summarizing the principal conclusions of the Mueller report, which even the circumspect Robert Mueller objected to as threatening a central purpose of his probe. On the morning of the redacted reports release, he held an unprecedented press conference defending the presidents obstructive abuses described in the Mueller report as the reasonable actions of a frustrated man. He did everything he could to lend the authority of the Justice Department to Trumps main political talking points of no collusion and no obstruction. And he stoked the witch hunt flames long fanned by Trump by telling Congress he thought that spying on the presidents campaign had occurred and promising to interrogate the origins of that intelligence inquiry. Now he appears prepared to fulfill that promise using the unprecedented and dangerous new powers given to him by Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be clear, oversight of the intelligence communitys activities is critical. But that oversight has happened. Indeed, it continues to happen. Both the Senate and House have reviewed extensively the origins of the investigation into Russian election interference, and their probes continue. The Justice Departments Office of Inspector General is nearing completion of its review of the investigation, especially as related to U.S. persons such as Carter Page, who briefly was a foreign policy adviser to the Trump campaign. If the inspector generals report turns up something worthy of continued investigation, then a decision about next steps should be made at that time. But what need could there be for Barr to get ahead of his own Justice Departments inspector general? Its hard to fathom a reason other than the purely partisan one of keeping alive the presidents witch hunt theme amid an ongoing oversight battle with Congress and heading into the 2020 election. Now, it seems, Trumps efforts in both arenas will be supported by selectively declassifying and disclosing whatever materials might tend to make the president look a bit better, while withholding those that dont. Advertisement Advertisement This is just the latest manifestation of Trumps dismal view of our nations intelligence community. Time and again, he has shown disregard and disrespect for the assessments of intelligence professionals. Recall the presidents Helsinki meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, when Trump publicly embraced the position of the Russian leader that no interference had occurred, over the contrary opinions of his own intelligence community. Or remember his bizarre personal letters exchanged with Kim Jong-un. To its credit, the intelligence community has generally stood firm in its views despite Trumps preference for the promises of foreign dictators. Advertisement Advertisement That history underscores what last weeks order reveals about Trumps view of Barr. As a practical matter, the order gives Barr supremacy over the intelligence community by allowing him to declassify its secrets at will. As a conceptual matter, the order may be even more extraordinary by empowering Barr to direct the declassification of the intelligence communitys secrets. Trump is thus making one Cabinet memberBarrsuperior to his fellow Cabinet members on the matters of their own agencies. If this involved the exercise of their statutory authorities, it would be clearly unlawful. However, because this is a delegation of the presidents own authority to classify and declassifyas implemented via earlier executive ordersit may be lawful. But its a terrible and dangerous approach to governance. Trump is rewarding the Cabinet member whos been most political, most loyal, most obedient, by elevating him over other Cabinet members who have been providing nonpartisan intelligence assessments to keep our country safe. Advertisement Advertisement As alarming as last weeks order must have been to the U.S. intelligence community, imagine what our foreign allies must think. On Friday, Trump made clear that he wants Barr to use his review to look at the role British and Australian intelligence services played in the Russia probe, because there was a hoax that was perpetrated on our country. This represents an extraordinary threat to the intelligence these and other countries share with us and often help us to acquire and protect as well as to the people gathering that intelligence. Itquite reasonablyseems certain to decrease their trust in Washingtons will to protect sources, methods, and intelligence; in turn, its likely to decrease how much they share. Ultimately, politically driven declassification and a decrease in intelligence sharing by U.S. partnersand especially the combinationcould endanger the lives of Americans. Although Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats has expressed confidence that the attorney general will work with the IC in accordance with the long-established standards to protect highly-sensitive classified information that, if publicly released, would put our national security at risk, its unclear if those standards will in fact be respected by Barr, given that the order requires him to consult with the intelligence community about declassification only, as noted above, if Barr himself deems it practicable. To our closest allies, and to the women and men who have risked their livesand in some cases, diedto acquire intelligence to protect our nation, the presidents order says a lot about his view of national security: not as a sacred responsibility of an American president, but as something that can be exploited for political advantage. Thats a terrible price for the rest of us to pay. Data and online connectivity are increasingly crucial drivers of the global economy. But there is tremendous debate and uncertainty over data governancethat is, how governments should interact with the private sector through data policy and law. Emerging data governance regimes around the world will have sweeping consequences not only for the economy but also for geopolitics, as countries jostle for influence in setting rules for new data-intensive technologies, including artificial intelligence, 5G wireless networks, the internet of things, and cloud technologies. There are open questions about how data governance should balance security, competitiveness, and privacy. A global patchwork of rules for how data is shared across borders will also shape trade and investment, technological development, and access to data around the world. Advertisement Data itself is becoming an increasingly important element of national power. Yet there is a need for deeper discussion of how that power manifests, the implications for geopolitics, and the implications for U.S. policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Please join New Americas Cybersecurity Initiative and Future Tense at 9:30 a.m. on June 4 in Washington for a panel discussion to mark the launch of our new project, Data & Great Power Competition. For more information and to RSVP, visit the New America website, where youll also be able to watch a livestream of the event. Participants: Isabelle Buscke Head of the Brussels Office, Consumer Policy Division, Federation of German Consumer Organisations Michael Chertoff Author of Exploding Data: Reclaiming Our Security in the Digital Age Co-founder & executive chairman, the Chertoff Group Former U.S. secretary of homeland security Yang Geng Founder & CEO, Entropage Former chief security officer, Amazon China & Xiaomi Samm Sacks Cybersecurity policy & China digital economy fellow, New America Moderator: Anne-Marie Slaughter CEO, New America Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society. Start off your June at the hot air balloon show in Kosice and finish it off by taking part in the Kosice triathlon. Two film festivals, as well as a fairytale castle, also wait for you in June. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled The first summer month, June, is around the corner. We can look forward not only to summer solstice on June 21, when we enjoy the longest day of the year, but also more events held outside, in parks and on squares. Kosice especially offers several events worth visiting. Hence, they dominate the June list, but let's head off to Nitra first. 1) FOOD FESTIVAL: Festival of Flavours of the Nitra Region, June 1, Svatopluk Square, Nitra 2) BALLOON FESTIVAL: Balloon Fiesta, June 5-8, Technical University Campus, Kosice 3) MARKET: Ceramic Market, June 7-9, Radnicne Square, Pezinok 4) FOOD FESTIVAL: Gurman Fest, June 7-9, City Park, Kosice 5) CHILDREN'S EVENT: Fairytale Castle, June 12-16 & June 19-23, castle, Bojnice 6) FILM FESTIVAL: ART FILM FEST, June 14-22, different venues, Kosice 7) FOLK FESTIVAL: Cassovia Folkfest, June 20-23, Main Street, Kosice 8) LECTURE/WORKSHOP: On St John's Day, June 22, Museum of the Slovak Village, Martin 9) FILM FESTIVAL: Fest Anca, June 27-30, cultural centre Stanica, Zilina 10) SPORT: Ness City Triathlon, June 29, different locations, Kosice 1) Festival of Flavours of the Nitra Region Nitra opens its summer full of culture on June 1 with this gastronomic festival for the fifth time. Part of it is also the Strawberry Nitra event, during which visitors can taste plenty of meals with strawberries grown in the Nitra Region. In addition, the international festival of drums and percussion, drumpoint Slovakia 2019, and a carnival parade filled with Latin vibes are planned for the day. Place: Nitra Venue: Svatoplukovo Square, Kupecka Street, pedestrian zone Date: June 1 Time: 11:00 22:00 Admission: free video //www.youtube.com/embed/6xehZvz7EjA 2) Balloon Fiesta The unique festival, during which the sky will be packed with hot air balloons, returns for the 26th time to the campus of Technical University in Kosice. Not only can visitors walk among the balloons and take pictures but they can also pay for a balloon flight. To buy a voucher, click here. Most importantly, this is an exciting event for children that can even experience what it feels like to be flying in a balloon, on June 7, and enjoy other on-the-ground activities in a picnic zone. More information can be found here. Place: Kosice Venue: Technical University Campus on Vysokoskolska Street Date: June 5-8 Time: all day Admission: free unless you want to book a balloon ride (135) video //www.youtube.com/embed/0YxiNfRrOjc 3) Ceramic Market More than 160 pottery makers from Slovakia and other countries (Czechia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Hungary and Poland) will meet on Pezinok square for the 16th time to celebrate ceramics and the ancient craft of pottery-making. In addition, children can join workshops and even compete in making clay products on a wheel. On the other hand, parents can enjoy a glass of wine on Little Wine Alley (Potocna Street). Place: Pezinok Venue: Radnicne Square, Stefanikova Street & Potocna Street Date: June 7-9 Time: all day Admission: free 4) Gurman Fest The gourmand festival comes back to Kosice for its tenth edition. All the gourmets will have the opportunity, throughout three days, to taste food prepared by the best chefs in Kosice and drink beer from local breweries, including Herrenwald, Corvus and Hostinec. As well, a bakery that makes food for dogs will be at the festival! Here is one thing to keep in mind people can only pay with tokens at the festival, which can be bought on the spot. More information on what time the festival takes place and which restaurants and breweries will be there can be found here. Place: Kosice Venue: City Park (near the main railway station) Date: June 7-9 Time: different hours Admission: 1.50 - 5, children under 6 for free video //www.youtube.com/embed/2_ouQjrH-58 5) Fairytale Castle Once upon a time This is how the biggest fairytale theatre festival may start at Bojnice Castle. Each year, the programme is inspired by a well-known fairytale, such as Sleeping Beauty. However, a bit more magic will be added to the festival this June as the programme carries the idea of The Wizard of Oz. Bring along your children and let them become Dorothy for a while. Do not forget it is important for kids to dream and follow their dreams. More information on here. Place: Bojnice Venue: Bojnice Castle Date: June 12-16 & 19-23 Time: 8:00 - 18:00 Admission: 4 - 12; children under 2 for free video //www.youtube.com/embed/PUv-5OpsYU0 6) ART FILM FEST Before becoming the Ukrainian president-elect, Volodymyr Zelensky had been an actor. His comedy from 2018 will be screened at this international festival in Kosice. Film goers can enjoy plenty of films from around the world in several Kosice theatres, as well as concerts, workshops and discussions. In 2019, the jury will again award the Blue Angels awards in five different film categories as well as the Golden Camera to a film professional for their contribution to the industry. The festival has been held in Kosice since 2016, but its history dates back to 1993 when it launched in Trencianske Teplice. More information on the festival, tent city, prices and the like can be found here. Place: Kosice Venue: different cinemas, Kunsthalle, Kulturpark, Tabacka Kulturfabrik, Main Street Date: June 14-22 Time: all day Admission: from 3 video //www.youtube.com/embed/d3-pFjHPJGM At this music festival, which presents mainly the folk culture of eastern Slovakia, organisers and visitors will try hard to break the record in dancing karicka, an eastern Slovakian folk dance performed in a circle, as well as cardas, a Slovak folk dance with Hungarian origins, on the Kosice promenade. In addition, not only Slovak but also Polish and Slovenian folk groups will join the festival. A fair promoting traditional crafts will be held on the promenade, as well. Place: Kosice Venue: Main Street Date: June 20-23 Time: 9:00 - 21:00 Admission: free 8) On St John's Day In many countries, bonfires and other festivities are held on the night of June 23, or even on June 24. St John the Baptist was born on this day, but the celebration also coincides with the June solstice, on June 21. All the Johns (Jan) in Slovakia celebrate their name's day on June 24, as well. In Martin, you can learn more about how people celebrated the summer solstice in the past. Place: Martin Venue: Museum of the Slovak Village Date: June 22 Time: 9:00 - 18:00 Admission: 2 - 4, children under 6 for free 9) Fest Anca This is the only Slovak multimedia festival that presents animated films of multiple types, mostly for adults. This year's topic is identity, and foreign guests will attend the event. British writer and animator Candy Guard, who created a number of award-winning short animated films for the BBC and Channel 4, will join the jury and lead a workshop at the festival. More than 30 Slovak short animated films and videos will be screened, but even more animated films from around the globe will be screened within 11 categories, out of which two are focused on children. The list of the movies can be found here, alongside other information and tickets. Place: Zilina Venue: cultural centre Stanica Date: June 27-30 Time: all day Admission: 3.50 or 7 (single tickets only at the gate), passes for 15 - 30 (pre-sale and at the gate) video //www.youtube.com/embed/WPYUjdTj_Z0 10) Ness City Triathlon Have you ever considered taking part in a triathlon but have not found enough courage? If you make up your mind by June 29, you can experience what it is like to swim 750m, cycle 20km and run 5km in one go in the Kosice triathlon. Moreover, children and teens can try it out too. They will run 500m, cycle 1km and swim 40m in their category. Are you up for it? You can find detailed information (registration, fee, course, etc.) in English here. Place: Kosice Venue: indoor swimming pool, city centre, City Park Date: June 29 Time: 11:00 - 18:30 Admission: free unless taking part in the triathlon (15 - 29) The election committee also reported the case of an American citizen who wanted to vote in the EP elections. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Election day on May 25 was calm, without major incidents, summed up Eduard Barany, chair of the State Election Commission. The most serious incident occurred in Kosice, where bees swarmed near a polling station, he added. Here are some other interesting stories reported by the polling stations: An American woman wanted to vote One curious incident happened in Bratislavas borough of Ruzinov, where an American woman wanted to cast her ballot. Read also: Read also: Who are the new Slovak MEPs? Read more A man and his partner, an American, entered one of the polling stations, said Tatiana Tothova from the communication department of the Ruzinov local municipality office, as quoted by the TASR newswire. She did not have double citizenship, but she demanded the right to vote. The whole incident was very dramatic, and they had to call the police, Tothova added. Children will receive unused ballots The city of Nitra decided to use the tonnes of unused ballots in primary schools and kindergartens. Of the about seven tonnes of the ballots sent to the city, only one-fourth were used. As a result, altogether 1,240 packages of ballots are now stored in the local municipality office, with every package containing about 1,000 ballots. Children will enjoy the tonnes of unused paper because at the municipality office we decided to donate the ballots to kindergartens and primary schools, said Nitras spokesperson Tomas Holubek, as quoted by the SITA newswire. School headmasters showed interest in the ballot papers since they use them for paper planes and painting, he added. Some ballot papers will also go to local culture centres. At the same time, the ballots used in the elections that were not cast but ended up in waste bins will be recycled. We got lots of paper, Holubek said, as quoted by SITA. In the previous presidential election, we did not have so much paper like we have now. The security of the new euro banknotes has been upgraded. The new 100 and 200 banknotes were put into circulation on May 28, 2019. (Source: TASR) Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled People in Slovakia can now use new 100 and 200 banknotes. They were put into circulation on May 28. One of the most significant changes of the new banknotes is that they are smaller and thus more practical. The new 100 and 200 notes are now the same height as the 50 banknote, which makes them easier to handle and process by machines, reads a press release issued by the European Central Bank (ECB). Read also: Read also: Slovaks can now use new 50 banknotes Read more In addition, their security features, namely the satellite hologram and enhanced emerald number, have been upgraded. What has changed? The new banknotes have the silvery stripe on its right side. At its top, a satellite hologram shows small symbols, which move around the number when the note is tilted. These symbols are clearer under direct light, the press release reads. The silvery stripe also depicts a portrait of Europa, the figure from Greek mythology, and a larger symbol. An enhanced emerald number is featured on the notes as well. While the emerald number is present on all the other notes of the Europa series, this enhanced version also shows symbols inside the number, the ECB's press release reads. video //www.youtube.com/embed/2MvKbyE0NeU No need to exchange banknotes It is not necessary to exchange the old banknotes of the first series since they still remain valid, said Andrej Slizik of the National Bank of Slovakia (NBS), the countrys central bank, as quoted by the Pravda daily. NBS will be gradually withdrawing them from circulation. In fact, almost all of the old 5, 10 and 20 banknotes have been exchanged. When it comes to the 50 notes, we have exchanged 73 percent of the old banknotes, Slizik added, as quoted by Pravda. Precitajte si tiez: Precitajte si tiez: New 20 banknotes now in circulation Read more The 20 and 50 banknotes are the most widely used notes in the eurozone countries. The third most used banknote is the 100 note. Meanwhile, the demand for banknotes with a higher value is on the rise. The 100 note saw an 7.6 percent annual increase in demand while the 200 note saw an 8.6 percent annual increase, the ECB's press release reads. The new 500 not to be issued The ECB already announced that it would permanently stop producing and withdraw the 500 banknotes for concerns it could facilitate illicit activities. However, the banknote remains valid. Therefore, the issuance of the new 100 and 200 banknotes has completed the Europa series, the second series of euro banknotes. The ECB has been introducing new notes of a lower value and of the better secured second series since 2013 while simultaneously withdrawing the old version of euro notes from circulation. Pellegrini suggested that he might step down as prime minister. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Saturday's European Parliament election was the first Smer did not win as a party since 2006. Three days later, representatives of the party in the Kosice Region called on the party chairman Robert Fico to step down. Read also: Read also: The pro-European voice within the V4 is clearest in Slovakia Read more It is the first time Fico has faced such an outspoken call for his departure from within the party. Dennik N published the letter on the day it was sent to the party leadership and all its regional and district organisations. In it, the Smer representatives from eastern Slovakia demand an extraordinary convention of the party, asking Peter Pellegrini to take the reins from Fico. "We thus call on the party chairman Robert Fico and deputy chairman Robert Kalinak to show political culture and step down from their posts with dignity, without provoking conflicts within the party and persecution," the letter reads. Fico was forced to step down as prime minister after the murder of Jan Kuciak and Martina Kusnirova. His resignation, and that of Robert Kalinak, who then served as interior minister, was among the main demands of the For a Decent Slovakia protests that changed the country last year. Peter Pellegrini took over as PM, while Fico returned to parliament as an MP and remained the chair of the ruling Smer. Pellegrini wants to be part of the discussion "We have a decisive time ahead of us in Smer. It will determine who will be where and if anyone will be anywhere at all," PM Peter Pellegrini reacted, speaking to journalists ahead of the cabinets session on Wednesday, May 29. With the Parliamentary election ahead, I will do my utmost for Smer to win, but it will require a thorough reform, Pellegrini said. He also suggested that if it doesnt work out, he might step down as prime minister. He welcomed that the members want to discuss the future of the party, although he said it would be preferable to do it within the party. He said it is now up to the chairman of the party, Robert Fico, to decide how to proceed. Some in Smer want to apologise In their letter, the signatories also demand that the party passes a call on the citizens that will contain Smer's collective apology for failing to prevent the current situation that the country is in, defined by unsurpassable differences in opinions and political and moral attitudes among citizens. "We have recently noted a dramatic decline in the number of members willing to actively take part in the party's activities, and the willingness of these members to identify with the party in public has been significantly dropping too," they wrote. They admit to even having problems finding people to represent the party in local election commissions. They want what decent citizens want They admit the party members are frustrated to be connected with people who have been found guilty of tax evasion, suspected of corruption and dubious deals, the Cisty Den scandal, or even scandals linked with a man who is accused of ordering the murder of an investigative journalist. "We want the same as all other decent citizens of the country: a clean public life, rule of law, justice, and equal chances for all," they wrote. President-elect Zuzana Caputova introduced the first three people who have agreed to join her in the Presidential Palace on Facebook. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled President-elect Zuzana Caputova not only used social media during her presidential campaign; she decided to post the first three names of her team on Facebook, as well. Political commentator and journalist Marian Lesko, journalist Martin Strizinec and environmentalist and Greenpeace activist Juraj Rizman will all join her in the Presidential Palace. Read also: Read also: From attorney and activist to president of Slovakia. Who is Zuzana Caputova? Read more Although President Andrej Kiska often uses social media, he announced the names of his advisers on the radio back in May 2014, the TASR newswire wrote. Caputova is therefore the first president-elect to use Facebook for such a public announcement. In this way, I will be gradually unveiling other names for my priorities to you, including representatives of minorities, in the following weeks, she wrote on Facebook. Marian Lesko Lesko, who has worked for years as a journalist for the Pravda and Sme dailies and, currently, the Trend weekly, will serve as Caputovas advisor on home affairs. I was thinking about whether I was fed up with journalism after 37 years, Lesko told the Dennik N daily. He no longer felt writing articles every day was satisfactory for him, he added. Lesko has worked until now as a political commentator and has often been invited to televised discussions to comment on the various types of elections. In addition, he has collaborated with the Stop Corruption Foundation. Read also: Read also: Caputova becomes Slovakia's fifth president Read more I have long observed her, and we have known each other for a long time, Lesko explained to Dennik N why he accepted Caputova's offer. Our profiles are compatible. Just like Caputova, he is also a strong critic of the ruling party Smer and its head Robert Fico. I deeply appreciate that Marian Lesko, who knows Slovak policy better than anybody else, has accepted my offer, Caputova wrote on Facebook. Martin Strizinec Strizinec, who has worked in media since 2001, including Radio Expres, the private news channel TA3 and public broadcaster RTVS, will become Caputova's spokesperson. Im glad that Martin Strizinec has decided to become my spokesperson, Caputova posted on Facebook. Strizinec was, in fact, surprised by the offer and had to discuss it with some other people, whose opinions matter to him, Dennik N wrote. This offer brings along a big chunk of responsibility. It is a big commitment, a challenge, he told Dennik N. In November 2018, he was one of the people that made a speech at the For a Decent Slovakia protest, criticising the current coalition. Juraj Rizman Caputova also extended an invite to Greenpeace activist Rizman to join her team. He will become her advisor in questions concerning the environment and third sector. We have collaborated for many years within Via Iuris [NGO], and Im glad he will be in charge of the environment and civic society, Caputova wrote. Rizman has been a member of the Government Council for NGOs, an advisory body of the Slovak government in the matter of civic society, since 2012. In 2017, he became the Top Spokesperson of the Year for the way he communicated during the civic campaign in support of the scrapping of Meciar's amnesties. Shares of Manpasand Beverages extended losing streak on Tuesday, falling 20 per cent for the second day, following the arrest of its top executives over GST fraud case. Manpasand Beverages share price tanked as much as 20 per cent to touch an intra-day low of Rs 70.40 against previous close level of Rs 88 on the Bombay Stock Exchange. The stock had tumbled 20 per cent to Rs 88 per share on Monday. On the National Stock Exchange, Manpasand shares were locked at 20 per cent lower circuit at Rs 70.50 apiece against previous close level of Rs 88.10. Investors have been pressing the sell button on Manpasand Beverages after the Commissioner of Central GST (CGST) and Customs on Friday arrested the company's managing director (MD) Abhishek Singh and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Paresh Thakkar on allegation of creating fake company units and committing tax invasion. "The searches unearthed a huge racket of creating fake/dummy units for availing fraudulent credit and committing tax evasion of Rs 40 crores and involving turnover of Rs 300 crore," the CGST had said in a press release. The authorities had carried out search and seizure proceedings at various premises of the company on May 23, and further inquiry was conducted on May 24, 2019 at GST Bhavan office of Vadodara. Also Read: Two more Manpasand Beverages board members resign amid GST fraud case "The continuing investigation has unearthed a network of more than 30 fake units located in various parts of the country which were used for committing fraud by availing illegal credit. The investigation regarding the ultimate beneficiary of the fraud and web of shell companies is under progress," it added. The fruit juice maker company, which owns brands such as MangoSip, Fruits Up, Manpasand ORS, and OXY Sip, on Monday said that two of its board members Bharat Vyas and Dhruv Agrawal have resigned. On Friday, Vishal Sood, non-executive director of the company, had tendered his resignation with immediate effect. The company has also cancelled the board meeting which was scheduled to be held on May 28, 2019 to consider and approve audited financial results. Meanwhile, the BSE Sensex was trading at 39,644.09, down by 39.2 points or by 0.1 per cent, and the NSE Nifty was trading lower at 11,910.1, down by 14.65 points or by 0.12 per cent. Edited by Chitranjan Kumar Also Read: Share Market Live: Sensex, Nifty edge lower in choppy trade; Manpasand, Bharti Infratel, HDFC top losers Trot Insider learned that a great harness racing fan and construction builder from Sorel, Quebec, Rejean Descheneaux, died on Sunday, May 19 at the age of 79. Although his life revolved around the company, Rejean Descheneaux still devoted a lot of time to harness racing. "He went to the races between three and five times a week at one point. He was going to see them practice too. It was his true passion. He gave me that passion. He loved to have fun, he loved the songs to sing and the folklore ", testified his son Sylvain Descheneaux. Rejean Descheneaux, who co-founded Construction Sorel in 1982 with Rejean and Gaston Bibeau, was passionate about life and was very present for his family, says his son. "Despite a job that takes time, he was always there for us. My father had the facility to disconnect work," said Sylvain Descheneaux. The latter, even though he became sole owner in 2007, has always refused to give himself the title of president of Construction Sorel. He was the vice-president and his father the president. "For me, it's just a title. My father still came to the office every day. He was the one who made the deposits at the bank. Construction Sorel, it was his life, "Descheneaux added. In the 1960s, he had an industrial expertise in concrete foundation work, especially in the heavy industrial. This is the expertise he brought to the foundation of Construction Sorel with Rejean and Gaston Bibeau, in 1982. The family will welcome friends at JP Ponton and S. Jacques & Fils, 105 Principale Yamaska Welcome day(s) Saturday, June 1, 2019. Hospitality hours are 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and the day of the celebration as of noon. A religious celebration will be held on Sunday, June 2, 2019 at 3:00 pm at St-Michel d'Yamaska Church and the burial will take place at the cemetery of St-Michel d'Yamaska at a later date. Donations for the Canadian Cancer Society and/or Alzheimer Society would be appreciated. Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Rejean Descheneaux. In March 2019 a hacker group calling itself Lab Dookhtegan (sealed lips in Farsi, the Iranian language) began releasing details of an Iranian APT (Advanced Persistent Threat) hacker group called OilRig. The details not only included the source code for the tools OilRig used but also details of who they attacked and, worst of all, personal details about members of OilRig. The Lab Dookhtegan never revealed details about who they were although there were indications that Lab Dookhtegan personnel were themselves hackers who may have worked for OilRig. Whatever the case, the OilRig disclosures did not cause OilRig to cease operations and even if efforts continue to track down OilRig personnel and shut down their current operations, OilRig will survive and possibly take a new name and carry on. This has happened before with veteran APTs. OilRig is also known as APT34. The term APT has been used since the 1990s to describe a major threat to network security and originally referred to one type of attack or collection of hacker software. The term became increasingly common since the U.S. Air Force began using it in 2006 to describe major hacker groups, including ones that were part of government-backed Cyber War efforts. OilRig apparently worked for Iranian intelligence to spy on other nations in the Middle East. Lab Dookhtegan released details of some of those operations, including what was taken, how and where it was sent. The Lab Dookhtegan people were very angry at those who ran OilRig and Iranian intelligence personnel, calling them evil. It was easy for Internet security personnel to confirm the authenticity of what OilRig had done, how they did it and who they did it to. Due to the Lab Dookhtegan revelations OilRig was damaged but not destroyed as an APT. The personnel who run OilRig, even though their personal details were now public, could rebuild and create another APT. The Iranians have not commented publicly about Lab Dookhtegan or what it had done. In any event, OilRig was but one of dozens of APTs that the Iranian government has employed for Internet-based espionage and larceny. With the current revival of economic sanctions on Iran, the APTs employed will probably be doing more fundraising than intelligence gathering. The major benefit Iran can offer the APTs it employs is sanctuary. Most of these APT personnel are Iranian based, where they cannot be prosecuted. Lab Dookhtegan made life difficult for a lot of these Iranian hackers to travel outside Iran now that foreign police and intel agencies know who they are. That information also helped foreign investigators to connect the dots and identify other personnel working for Iranian APTs. Hacking has gone pro since the late 1990s and, in addition to creating a new area for organized crime to operate in, these mercenary criminal hackers have become a major source of talent for nations seeking to create Cyber War weapons as major components of their military power. This evolution came into focus since the Internet and the World Wide Web became widely used and truly international after 2005. Within a decade researchers began to encounter more and more major APTs. These major malware operations were definitely Advanced Persistent Threats and lucrative enough to attract a lot of new talent. The attraction wasnt always economic. Many proficient hackers did it because the found it satisfying work while others did it out of patriotism. Sometimes all of these motivations are combined, as when an unknown APT hacked the American NSA (American National Security Agency) and obtained some valuable NSA hacking tools. These were later sold via an Internet-based broker and used for economic attacks. One of these NSA tools was called EternalBlue and it used a ZDE (Zero Day Exploit) stockpiled by the NSA for possible Cyber War operations. This particular ZDE exploited a flaw in Windows network software allowing the EternalBlue program to quietly insert itself into other PCs on the same network as the PC infected (probably via a spearfishing attack) with an extortion app called WannaCry. The Iranian APTs were interested in obtaining hacker tools but the Iranian government mainly wanted details of the military, economic and espionage capabilities of their neighbors. This use of APTs was one advantage Iran had against its enemies. Decades of sanctions had made it impossible for Iran to obtain modern weapons or technology in general. But via the APTs, they created or employed they could steal much of what they wanted. Syrians living in opposition held areas have taken to celebrating Israeli strikes against regime targets, just as regime supporters celebrate strikes on civilian areas in Idleb writes Ana Insan. Dozens, if not hundreds, of joyful tweets and posts are written by Syrians celebrating whenever there is news of Iranian, Hezbollah or Syrian regime positions being hit by Israeli warplanes. In the beginning, this joy at Israel striking Iranian posts was somewhat shy, and was limited to a specific audience. Then it developed to include all those who have a martyr or a prisoner from their houses or have suffered repression from one of a regime figure. The scope of the schadenfreude expanded to included those in regime areas and has extended to them ridiculing regime statements such as those attempt to pass off strikes as being the result of an electrical fault. The pro-regime public, specifically on the coast, also express their joy, but not at the bombing of Iranian positions considered to be foreign occupiers of their land (they see them as allies) but when Russian planes bomb civilian sites and villages in Idlebor any other areas that opposes the ruling regime, forgetting that the victims are Syrian citizens with Syrian ID cards. Its not just this, but they also share images on their pages of women and civilian victims as evidence of their victory over terrorism, despite the fact that the bombing did not hit al-Nusra Front positions (affiliated with al-Qaeda) as is currently happening in Idleb, and that most of the strikes hit civilian sites. The first celebrates Israeli strikes and the second celebrates Russian strikes. The first celebrates the bombing of Iranian positions, chosen carefully without images showing the extent of the damage, being a purely military site, and which are kept silent about because they are military secrets. The second meanwhile are celebrating Russian bombardments accompanied by regime barrel bombs of sites that are mostly houses and villages, along with dozens of bloody images of crimes against civilians, most of them buried under the rubble of their own homes. Yesterday, an Egyptian friend sent me an image of a Facebook post from an opposition member celebrating an Israeli bombardment of an Iranian position with a sentence saying: Are these your friends in the revolution, celebrating an Israeli bombardment of their territory? The post belonged to a joint Facebook friend. My Egyptian friend ended by saying: What do you think of what your opposition friend said? I didnt respond in words. I just sent him a video clip of regime supporters standing in front of rockets ready to be launched and saying: This is the Ramadan iftar for the people of Idleb, then launching the rockets. After I sent him about 17 bloody and terrifying images of the bombardment on Idlebs villages, in the end I wrote: Go back to the page of my friend who celebrated the Israeli bombardment of Irans sites and youll find a post mourning relatives who died in the bombardment of Idleb. Look at his page well and see the amount of pain and hatred in the comments, and then youll know why my friend was happy about Israels bombardment of Iranian sites occupying Syrian land. 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. The Syrian National Coalition has called on international organisations to increase efforts to stop attacks in Ideb and Hama and protect civilians. The Syrian National Coalition said that the Assad regime and its allies are using, all tactics and weapons that are prohibited under international law against civilians in Idleb and rural Hama. It called upon active members of the United Nations to take action and protect civilians. In a press release issued on Sunday, the Coalition said: The latest developments and events on the ground and the daily confrontations on different fronts bear one title: the ongoing criminality of the regime and its allies. The Coalition noted that: the ongoing bombing campaign against Khan Sheikoun and southern rural Idleb and northern rural Hama is the most recent litany of crimes committed under this title. The town and its surroundings are being subjected to a campaign of destruction, and annihilation. Russian missiles, the regimes barrel bombs, the white phosphorous bombs and the heavy shelling of cities and towns as well, as everything else that is forbidden under international law, is being committed and used against civilians in those areas. The Coalition went on: The ongoing bombing campaign is a blatant violation of international resolutions and agreements on the region. These developments must be immediately referred to the UN Security Council as each party is obliged to assume their responsibilities. It is imperative that the United Nations take practical steps to ultimately stop the killing, destruction and displacement. Resolutions and laws cannot be enforced on their own. The international organization and its active members need to assume their duty to protect civilians and enforce UN Security Council resolutions, the Coalition added. This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. Syrian regime war planes deliberately bombed the Deir Lozeh historic site in rebel-held Idleb province, which contains a Byzantine church and palaces, causing widespread damage writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed Syrian regime warplanes deliberately bombed a historic Christian site in southern Idleb province, causing widespread damage, according to witnesses. Local sources told Al-Araby al-Jadeed that planes bombed the Deir Lozeh historic site near the town of Ihsem, targeting its ancient columns with thermobaric weapons, which caused intense damage to the ancient structure. The Deir Lozeh site includes an ancient church with carvings depicting the life of Christ and two Byzantine palaces, as well as a historic road linking its buildings and wells. On May 4, 2019, Russian warplanes bombed the historic Sarjila site in Idleb province, which also contained a Byzantine palace, causing some damage. Rebel-held Idleb province, which is regularly bombed by the Assad regime and its Russian ally, is home to many historic sites. This includes the ancient city of Ebla and the 5th Century Qalb Lozeh Cathedral, which is considered an architectural forerunner of Paris Notre Dame Cathedral. Dozens of historic sites have been bombed by the Syrian regime throughout the course of the eight-year war, which began in 2011. The situation worsened after Russia intervened militarily on the regimes side in 2015. Since last month, the Syrian regime, assisted by Russia, has been engaged in a ferocious assault on Idleb province, despite a September 2018 ceasefire agreement. Hundreds of people have been killed and more than 180,000 have been displaced. On Monday, five women and a child were killed when an air raid struck the town of Ariha with at least ten people trapped under the rubble. This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. Sheikh Maamoun Rahmeh is believed to have been imprisoned in Adra Central Prison, after being arrested on charges of insulting the Minister of Religious Endowments reports Sowt al-Asima. Sowt al-Asima has learned from sources that the Syrian regime has put the former preacher at Umayyad Mosque, Sheikh Maamoun Rahmeh, in Adra Central Prison, after he was arrested in Damascus by regime intelligence. The networks sources said that Rahmehs arrest came after he insulted the Minister of Religious Endowments in the regime government, Abdel Sattar al-Sayed, after the Ministry removed Rahmeh from his post at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. Sources said that Rahmeh was currently in the Adra Central Prison, pending the completion of investigations. The Ministry of Religious Endowments issued a decision to remove Rahmeh in mid-April after a sermon at the Umayyad Mosque that was met with great irony in pro-regime circles, in which he discussed the fuel crisis that has struck the country. A page with Sheikh Maamoun Rahmehs name on Facebook carried out a heavy attack after the decision to remove him from his position, attacking the Ministry of Religious Endowments and a number of Damascus sheikhs, but Rahmeh denied that he had any social media page. 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. The Syrian Democratic Forces have released a number of prisoners in an attempt to appease tribes in the area, with who relations have been strained reports Alsouria Net. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has released more than 100 detainees from its prisons in Deir ez-Zor province over the last two weeks, to satisfy tribes in the area whose relations with them have become tense, especially in the town of al-Shaheel. The SDF announced that it had released 89 prisoners at the request of tribal notables in Deir ez-Zor, following the release of 43 prisoners on May 14, 2019. The Kurdish Hawar news agency said that the release of the prisoners came as part of ceremonies attended by sheikhs and notables of the areas tribes, representing civilian institutions, the public relations committee in the civil council and military commanders. The SDF arrested hundreds of people in the eastern areas after the end of the Islamic States (ISIS) influence there, accusing them of belonging to the group and targeting military positions. The arrest campaigns led to a state of high tension in Deir ez-Zor, especially in the eastern countryside, which has seen protests in recent days criticizing the SDFs violations and demanding an international intervention to stop them. On May 15, 2019, the SDF said that it had arrested a number of participants of demonstrations in the Deir ez-Zor countryside, accusing them of belonging to ISIS, saying in a statement that their members had arrested, four ISIS fighters in the al-Jarazi village east of Deir ez-Zor. Al-Shaheel in the Deir ez-Zor countryside has seen angry popular demonstrations that have led to military bases being burned after civilians were killed by the SDF, while the villages of Damaan and Dhibaan also saw demonstrations against the killing of civilians in al-Shaheel. This led to meetings of sheikhs and notables from the Uqaydat tribe in Deir ez-Zor province on May 13, 2019, in al-Shaheel, who took a position against the SDF. The meeting ended with a closing statement that called on the US-led International Coalition to intervene and stop the SDFs violations against residents in Deir ez-Zor. 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. CASTLE ROCK Jen and Chris Wills both work full-time jobs, but that hasnt stopped them from opening a new tap house in Castle Rock. The Silver Lake couple first envisioned Crosscut Taproom, located at 21 W. Cowlitz St., after taking their dogs for a walk along the Caste Rock riverfront trail one January evening. We were passing the grocery store and we said, Lets get a beer somewhere, Chris Wills said earlier this month. But we didnt want to drive all the way to Longview, Jen Wills added. So they decided to create their own space. There are other bars in Castle Rock, but the Wills wanted to focus on craft beer, ciders and non-alcoholic beverages. The name, and the saw blade above the taps, hearkens back to their days as wilderness rangers with the U.S. Forest Service when they used crosscut saws to remove debris. No power tools were allowed, he said. Crosscut will only be open Fridays through Sundays because Jen Wills works full-time as the Longview director of parks and recreation and Chris Wills is a full-time forester. They said they believe the taproom will still be successful while open only a few days a week. And they plan to open extra days for special occasions, such as Thursday nights for Seahawks games. They got the keys to their new space formerly the home goods store Rustic Crossroads on April 6 and immediately started renovating. They redid the walls, built the kitchen, updated plumbing, installed the taps, wired the TVs and ordered branded pint glasses and growlers all before opening on May 17. They also converted the front window into a glass garage door that can roll up on nice days so patrons can feel like theyre outdoors. Our vision was to create an outdoor experience downtown without it being fully outdoor, he said. Crosscut will have 12 beverages on tap typically 10 beers and two ciders but the selection will rotate. While Chris Wills does some homebrewing, he says they arent beer aficionados. They offer selections from local breweries such as Five Dons, River Mile 38, Barrel Mountain, Ashtown and Buoy Beer Co. But Chris Wills said their offerings are not limited to Oregon and Washington brews. (They had one from Wisconsin on tap earlier this month.) We just want good, quality craft beers. The taproom will also have a small menu of one entree and three to five appetizers, including a cross-cuterie meat and cheese plate. They plan to hire about four people, but the Wills said they want to be visible and engaged owners. We made a conscious decision to use as many local companies as we can, Chris Wills said. Longview web design company Graticle Design helped create their logo. Athletes Corner, also in Longview, made their T-shirts and hats. The historic photos of loggers hanging on the walls came from the Cowlitz County Historical Museum. And Ash River Woodworks created the wooden countertops and tables. Jen Wills describes the aesthetic as logger chic. I knew I wanted a lot of wood and sparkly silver, she added with a laugh. Other local businesses, including the bars, have been very supportive, they said. And more than 60 people paid for founders memberships to support the business before it even opened. We want to be something thats unique to Castle Rock, Chris Wills said. We want people to leave here having had an excellent time in a calm, relaxing environment. Love 26 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 3 Angry 9 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officials are inviting the public, public officials, consultants and others to attend an information session on its permitting process June 3 in Cathlamet. Due to limited space, advance registration is required. The event is intended to create effective working relationships with the public, applicants, consultants, local municipalities and agencies, according to a press release from the Corps Seattle District Office. Topics that will be covered include: permitting authorities and jurisdiction, permits and authorizations, application submittal and completeness, review process, project drawings and common application mistakes. The session will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the River Street Meeting Room, 25 River St. in Cathlamet. Registration can be arranged by emailing evan.g.carnes@usace. army.mil or call 1-206-764-3750. 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. South Korean auto major, Hyundai Motors together with its subsidiary, Kia Motors, are planning to set up manufacturing plants for electric cars in India. The announcement came after Indian government announced an outlay of Rs 10,000 crore for Phase 2 of the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles, or FAME 2 scheme to improve electric mobility and enhance the number of electric vehicles in commercial fleets. Maruti Suzuki is already working on the WagonR Electric and said that it will be ready with its first India-focussed electric car by next year. To power the electric cars in India, Hyundai and Kia Motors are looking for partners like LG for batteries, said a report by Times of India. The South Korean auto companies are also looking at other international battery suppliers for the battery requirements. At the moment, both the companies are undertaking project viability tests in India for procuring local machinery and batteries. "One reason why I am here in India is to better understand what's going on in the electric space here," said Albert Biermann, President Of Hyundai Group's R&D division told Times of India. "We can import the technology, but when the market gets too competitive, we can also localize. We have a strong network of our sister companies and Korean suppliers. The Korean battery technology is leading across the world and we have strong partnerships, like with LG. So we can localize with those partners", Biermann added. Meanwhile, Hyundai is planning to launch its Kona EV in early July. The car was confirmed by the company last year and will be assembled in Chennai. Kona's international model is driven the 150kW electric motor. Its 64kWh lithium ion battery provides claimed range of up to 449km. Hyundai quotes zero to 80 per cent capacity recharge times extending from 54 minutes on a 100kW DC public fast charger to nine hours and 35 minutes when plugged into an optional home charger. Other than Hyundai-Kia, Maruti Suzuki-Toyota, Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors are also close to launching the electric car models. Edited By: Udit Verma Also read: Maruti looks to launch WagonR Electric next year Also read: Maruti Suzuki launches new Sports Limited Edition Brezza; to compete with newly launched Hyundai Venue Grain exports along the Columbia River System have dropped dramatically as a consequence of the tariff-based trade war between the U.S. and China, and regional officials are worried about the trickle down effect the decline might have. Everyone along the supply chain will be impacted: longshoremen, port revenues, (United Grain Commission) employees, transportation companies who move grain products, said Augusto Bassanini, CEO and President for the United Grain Corp., which is based in Vancouver. The trade war started last summer, when President Trump first imposed a 25% import tax on $50 billion worth of Chinese goods. Shortly afterward, the U.S. added a 10% import tariff on another $200 billion worth of Chinese products. Those increases resulted in retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods imported to China, so businesses in both countries are paying more to import goods. And in some cases, the higher prices have deterred China from importing some commodities at all. From a wheat perspective, about a year ago when (the U.S.) started talking about implementing tariffs, China stopped buying wheat, said Glen Squires, CEO of the Washington Grain Commission. They didnt wait until the tariff was applied. When there was just a threat of it, they stopped buying. The U.S. increased tariffs again this month, rising the rate between 10% and 25% on almost $200 billion worth of Chinese goods. Regional officials in the grain export market say the tariffs have taken the most noticeable and dramatic toll on soybean exports. Soybean exports to China from the Port of Longview have declined 65%, said port spokeswoman Ashley Helenberg. Though Helenberg and Port Commission President Doug Averett noted that some of the decline is due to delayed rail traffic and recent weather conditions, port officials pointed to the trade war as a leading contributor to the loss of soybean exports. In the 2018-19 fiscal year, the port exported more than 830,000 metric tons of soybeans to all countries during the harvest season, which runs September through March. Thats almost 60,000 tons less than was exported the previous year. (In total that harvest season, the Port of Longview exported about 2.3 million metric tons of soybeans.) Grain represents 25% of the Port of Longviews operating revenue, and wheat and corn remain strong commodities for export, officials said. Other than soybeans, we havent been hurt that much, Averett said. But if (the trade war) escalates and gets into steel ... or other commodities we do, there will be a lot of issues with trucking and trains coming into the port, which would mean less local jobs, a situation Averett does not relish. Averett said that grain export facilities are probably a little nervous at this point, and hoping that (the trade war) can get resolved soon. Representatives with the Port of Kalama and the Port of Kalama grain terminals could not be reached for comment last week, and representatives with the Export Grain Terminal at the Port of Longview declined to comment. Regionally, soybean exports are down about 70 percent since the 2017-18 harvest year, said Stephanie McClintock, spokeswoman with the United Grain Corporation. Bassanini added that China by far is the largest user of soybeans globally ... and no other country has the same buying power. An estimated 130 vessels will not be loaded out of Pacific Northwest ports due to the export decline, McClintock said. And those unloaded vessels wont affect only ports, McClintock said. If we are not loading vessels, we dont have the need for the employees that load those vessels. Theres also less rail we need, so thats less money for the rail lines, she said. McClintock estimated that about 780 fewer trains carrying grain will move from North and South Dakota to the West Coast this year. An estimate on how employment numbers might be affected was not immediately available last week, and the local Longshoremens union did not return request for comment. And while farmers are being subsidized for their products to make up for some of the losses theyre enduring due to the newly imposed tariffs, those subsidies dont always apply to the other businesses that are part of the grain export industry, McClintock said. Decreased exports also mean a historical soybean surpluses, which the market place will not be able to absorb, Bassanini said. Right now they sit on the farm, and they will stay there as long as the trade dispute is ongoing. The trade war could also have long-lasting effects, including severing ties to the soybean trading market in China that took years for the U.S. to build, said American Soybean Association President Davie Stephens. Stephens addressed that concern in a letter to President Trump issued by the ASA, the National Corn Growers Association and the National Association of Wheat Growers earlier this month. It took us more than 40 years to develop the China soy market. For most of us in farming, that is two thirds of our lives. If we dont get this trade deal sorted out and the tariffs rescinded soon, those of us who worked to build this market likely wont see it recover in our lifetime, Stephens wrote in the letter. In addition to soybean farmers, corn and wheat growers have also felt the pressure of the trade war. However, local ports have felt less of those effects because China is not a big market for corn coming from Longview, said Heleberg, the Port of Longview spokeswoman. The most noticeable and dramatic hit is to soybeans, Helenberg added. As for wheat, regional exports are also down. Squires, the state grain commission CEO, said that the white wheat exports are down about 300,000 tons in the the Pacific Northwest However, because China stopped importing U.S. wheat before the tariffs were fully imposed last year, Trumps decision to up the tariff rates doesnt really do anything to the current wheat exports, Squires said. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 2 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. Fed up with online negativity about Longviews homelessness problem, Sara Hasson decided to help the homeless community herself. So on a cloudy Tuesday afternoon at Lake Sacajawea, Hasson set up shop with scissors, spritzers, combs and capes in hand, ready to cut hair for the homeless people staying at the lake, free of charge. Were a community, and we should act like it, Hasson said. I decided to do what I can, and I can cut hair. Her aunt Jennifer Lavender joined in in the spur-of-the-moment effort, which they conducted across Kessler Boulevard from the PeaceHealth Lakefront Clinic. The grassy area beneath a tree has become a new gathering and sheltering place for the homeless after the city forced them out of the picnic shelter on the opposite shore of the lake. They gave four haircuts over the first three hours. Hasson said she planned to stay until about 5 p.m. Hasson, 36, was born and raised in Longview and currently works at Ilani Casino Resort south of Woodland. She graduated from cosmetology school in 2016. Hasson said shes gotten tired of seeing negative comments about the homeless people without those commentators doing anything to help. A haircut can open doors for a homeless person who cant otherwise afford one, Hasson said. Beyond simple hygiene, it can help them find employment. It gives them a boost in self confidence, it can help them get a job. And it makes them feel good about themselves. Her first client was Anthony Gomez, who said hes lived in Longview for four or five years and has been homeless for the last nine months. Getting a haircut will help him make the right impression with employers, Gomez said. His long-term goals are to become a Marine and work in underwater welding. For now, he wants to land a job, find a place to live and get his GED. While cutting hair, Hasson and Lavender talked with clients about where they grew up and what their plans were, offering advice on finding employment or social services. The two were bracing for negativity when they posted about the haircuts on a Facebook community group, but the more than 100 comments on Tuesday are virtually all encouraging and supportive. I was blown away, Lavender said. It kind of restores some faith in the community for me. Hasson said shes considering doing more haircuts for the homeless in the future. Jordan Siebert, who goes by Jay, said hes lived on and off in Longview for 17 years. Siebert, with a head full of thick curly hair, said hes happy he wont be so hot anymore. He has been homeless for the last five or six months, and said he recently came back to the area to prove to himself and his family that hes not the hardcore banger I was. It was not a pretty situation I came from, Siebert said. I burned some bridges. As soon as he gets his hair cleaned up, he plans to apply for work at a cannery in Warrenton, Oregon. Im just trying to prove everyone wrong, Siebert said. (And) make out a legal, decent living. Love 65 Funny 2 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 18 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. Earning a high school diploma "means everything to Castle Rock High School senior Jessica Miller. It means being the first in her immediate family to finish high school. It means the promise of a better salary later in life. It means successfully overcoming dozens of obstacles, including a year of missed classes, poverty and homelessness. But most importantly for Jessica, 18, earning her diploma means finally getting some sense of closure after her fathers unexpected death last year. My last thing I promised to him was that I was going to graduate, Jessica said. All senior year, Ive just been on this road to an entirely new life because my dad was one of the strictest people ever. ... We made a pact, an agreement that I would graduate high school. That goal seemed far off when Jessica started at CRHS as a sophomore. She was almost a full year of classes behind because she spent most of her freshman year living in a car with her mother and younger brother after they'd been evicted from their apartment in Orlando, Fla. Her father had traveled ahead to find a job and new apartment elsewhere, she said. We were homeless for a good six months and lived off jars of peanut butter and soda from vending machines, Jessica said. She bounced around between several high schools as her family traveled across country, never staying in one city longer than three months. Eventually, her father found work as a mechanic, and the family joined him to put down roots in Castle Rock. "After going homeless I pondered what I valued, and one of those things was my education and my self-worth," Jessica said. "It was the fear of not living up to my dad's expectations." By the end of her sophomore year, Jessica was on the honor roll, and shed made up most of her missing credits through the schools online class platform. Though she's not a 4.0 student, she hasn't failed a class since starting at CRHS, said Michal Wilson, school counselor. Wilson added that Jessicas steady academic performance is all the more impressive considering she works multiple jobs to support her family, helps raise her younger brother and has faced nights without food on the shelves. I think for lots of students like Jessica, it feels like the cards are stacked against them, Wilson said. You have to come to school and worry if you will graduate on time, if you will get dinner tonight or if you will have a house to come home to. On top of all of those stressors, Jessicas father fell ill near the beginning of her junior year. The doctors said he had seven years to live, Jessica said, but just a handful of months later, with only four weeks left in the school year, he suffered a stroke at work that left him brain dead, she said. After her father's death, Jessica missed most of the end of her junior year while she sat at home in a dark room grieving, she said. Im the spitting image of him, and we had the same exact mentality and music taste. It hit me the hardest when he died because I'm basically him, Jessica said. As part of the grieving process, her mother took Jessica to get matching tattoos of a daisy in honor of her father, which Jessica designed. "My art at first was my passion, and it always will be but now it's my escape," Jessica said. "If I hadn't had my art as a backbone to sit back and breathe when I needed it, I wouldn't have made it this far." When Jessica walks across the graduation stage on June 7, Wilson said it will be a triumph that signifies Jessicas grit, perseverance, intelligence and work ethic. It will also mean following through on her agreement to her father that shed earn her diploma. Girls like Jessica arent supposed to graduate. They are (usually) the drop outs, Wilson said. To see a kid overcome challenges, figure things out on their own and graduate anyways is pretty special. Love 29 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 website that claims to assist anglers interested in getting their state fishing licenses is actually a scam, according to state wildlife officials and the Better Business Bureau. After at least two Oregonians say they were duped by the website FishingLicense.org, the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife and the BBB are warning users interested in buying a fishing or hunting tags to steer clear of the website. Instead, anglers should go through the legitimate Oregon website, myodfw.org, which has Buy a License at the top. When searching Google Friday for Oregon fishing license, the legitimate state website is the third one down. At the top of the results was FishingLicense.org, which the BBB says is owned by an F-rated business known as Orange Grove LLC of Coeur dAlene, Idaho. The website, which shows a fisherman in a boat, prompts the user to select their state and select New Fishing License, Renew Fishing License, Replace Fishing License or Lifetime Fishing License. FishingLicense.org, however, doesnt sell fishing licenses. FishingLicense.org can help you understand the fishing laws and regulations in your state, preparing you to obtain a fishing license, the website says in small print. Additionally, you can download our guide for only $28.98. This convenient and comprehensive guide explains the eligibility requirements for a fishing license and walks you through the fishing license application process, saving you time. A user out of Auburn, Wash., who complained about FishingLicense.org on the BBB Scam Tracker website, said he clicked on Renew but only got a guide. We got charged $4.99 at first and then received an email notification for the purchase of online guiding, the March 30 complaint says in part. We thought its small money and ignored it, kept waiting for email confirmation of the renew license. The complainant never got a license, but did incur an additional $23.99 charge for the guide. The initial $4.99 charge was a transaction fee. The BBB has had a consumer alert against Orange Grove LLC since August 2017, the business BBB registry shows, over Orange Groves websites that target people looking to change their address, PostalAddressChange.org and ChangeAddressOnline.org. Those websites charge users about $49 to take on the responsibility of delivering all your correspondences to your new mailbox, plus emailed coupons and a moving guide. The U.S. Postal Service typically charges an individual $1.05 to change an address, according to the BBB. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 Editors note: Todays editorial originally appeared in The Daily Astorian. Editorial content from other publications and authors is provided to give readers a sampling of regional and national opinion and does not necessarily reflect positions endorsed by the Editorial Board of The Daily News. Oregon's unique tax "kicker" law is working exactly as intended, potentially sending more than $1.4 billion yes, billion back to taxpayers next year. Top Democrats in the Legislature's supermajority should respect the law's intent, which is to prevent excessive government spending. Instead, they want to spend your kicker refund for you. This is despite a new and historic $1 billion-a-year tax on businesses, while also having about $2.1 billion more to spend during the current two-year budget period than expected when the biennium began on July 1, 2017. Democrats already employed fiscal sleight-of-hand only a few weeks ago to reduce the potential kicker by $108 million. The Legislature has taken only meager steps to control spending in any meaningful way, and still wants to pass other tax increases. For any politicians who require a refresher on the kicker, here it is: The Legislature created it 40 years ago in hopes of quelling the tax revolt spreading north from California. A brainchild of the legislative revenue officer, the kicker was a way to guarantee lawmakers could not spend large windfalls. Instead, that money would go back to the taxpayers. Isn't that the way it should be? The details are that a kicker occurs when state tax revenues from corporations or from individuals and other sources come in at least 2 percent higher than projected at the start of the biennium. The entire surplus then is returned to taxpayers as a credit on the next year's income taxes. It's called the "kicker" because the refund kicks in when the 2 percent threshold is reached. Corporations already have lost their kicker. Voters in 2012 approved a ballot measure diverting the corporate kicker to the State School Fund. Unless the 2019 Legislature interferes, personal income tax payers will get the credit on this year's taxes when they file their returns next year. After the record-size kicker was announced last week, Democrats immediately decried it as excessive, unreasonable and unnecessary. They lacked a sense of proportion. "Oregon's economy is much larger than it used to be, so the kicker is still expected to be smaller than some as a share of biennial collections," state economists Mark McMullen and Josh Lehner said in their quarterly revenue forecast last week. The final amounts won't be known until the next forecast on Aug. 28, but currently the average filer would receive a $691 credit. Spent locally, that money would be a boon for economies throughout the state and help Oregonians shoulder the increased costs coming out of the Legislature. Under the Oregon Constitution, legislators can reduce or eliminate the personal income tax kicker if two-thirds of representatives and two-thirds of senators give their approval. That would require several Republicans to join Democrats. Democrats will offer carrots, such as directing some of the kicker money toward rural housing, foster care, higher education or the massive PERS liabilities. Those are worthy projects and a fine use for the extra money the Legislature already has. But leave the kicker itself alone. No to Gov. Kate Brown's well-intentioned-but-bad idea of reducing each taxpayer's kicker by $100 to help pay for PERS. No to House Speaker Tina Kotek's enigmatic idea of taking half the kicker for rebuilding a bridge on I-205 and supporting green-energy transportation projects even though reducing Portland-area gridlock would benefit freight traffic from throughout the state. Kotek this week dropped her proposal, saying there wasn't enough support for it. No, duh. And no to any other idea for taking Oregonians' kicker this year. In a constituent newsletter last week, Rep. Lynn Findley, R-Vale, capsulized the situation: "Constitutionally, the kicker is a check on excessive taxation. The Oregon Constitution mandates that the excess revenue be returned to Oregonians; unfortunately, that is not the opinion shared by some of my colleagues in the Legislature. However, I believe that every penny should go back to the hardworking Oregonians who contributed to our economic success." Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Ad Legacy Research 6,360 Interested This Week New Year Special: #1 Crypto Expert Says HURRY before 1/1/22 This could be the most profitable event in crypto history. And it only happens once. If you miss it, there are no second chances. Tata Motors has launched a new variant of its crossover hatchback Tiago NRG with AMT automatic transmission. The AMT gearbox option is available only with the Revotron 1.2-litre petrol engine. The new AMT automatic variant has been priced at Rs 6.15 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Tata Tiago NRG is a tweaked version of Tata Tiago that comes with higher ground clearance and plastic cladding body panels. The non-NRG version of Tata Tiago already comes with an option of AMT transmission for its petrol variant. ALSO READ:Maruti Suzuki to set up smaller Nexa showrooms with two-car display The Revotron petrol motor on Tata Tiago is a three-cylinder 1,199cc unit capable of producing 85PS of max power at 6000rpm and 114Nm of max torque at 3500rpm. Apart from the AMT automatic transmission, the engine also has a five-speed manual gearbox. The Tata Tiago NRG also comes with Revotorq 1.05-litre three-cylinder 1,047cc engine which can dish out 70PS of max power at 4000rpm and 140Nm of max torque at 1800-3000rpm. It comes only with a 5-speed manual gearbox. ALSO READ:Hyundai, Kia looking to locally manufacture electric cars in India The Tata Tiago NRG comes with a rugged look and higher ground clearance at 180mm compared to the regular Tiago. The crossover hatchback gets standard crossover aesthetics like lower body cladding, front and back skid plates, roof rails, and dual-tone colour scheme. In terms of overall dimensions, the cross-over is slightly longer at 3,793mm compared to the normal Tiago's 3,746mm. The width of Tiago NRG is slightly more than the regular Tiago due to the wheel arches. However, the wheelbase and cabin space remains the same as the regular Tiago hatchback. ALSO READ:Hyundai launches compact SUV Venue in India, price starts at Rs 6.5 lakh In conjunction with ASUS 30th Anniversary at Computex 2019 today, the company revealed a bunch of new VivoBook and Zenbook lineups, besides the exclusive Zenbook Edition 30, there's the ZenBook 13/14/15, and a new ZenBook Pro Duo with an even bigger 14-inch ASUS ScreenPad Plus secondary touchscreen. So we will be talking about that here. As a secondary touchscreen, this allows content creators to be more flexible and more productive for easy multitasking and it integrates with the primary display. To accommodate this new feature, the company had put in a ScreenXpert software for the user to utilize the apps, tools and utility benefits. In case you're wondering, the primary display is of OLED and runs up to 4K UHD (3840 x 2160), while the secondary touchscreen goes up to 4K (3840 x 1100) resolution. The ASUS NumberPad dual-function touchpad is also present. The resolution isn't the only thing that's high up, the tech specs inside are powered by up to 9th Generation Intel Core processors, combined with up to 32GB RAM and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 GPU, with ultrafast storage provided by up to a 1TB PCIe 3.0 x4 SSD. This belongs to the UX581 model, whereas the UX481 model is powered up to an Intel Core i7 processor and a GeForce MX250 GPU, a 14-inch NanoEdge FHD display, an FHD ScreenPad Plus and more. As for the ZenBook 13 (UX334), ZenBook 14 (UX434) and ZenBook 15 (UX534) laptops, they too also feature a bigger 5.65-inch ASUS ScreenPad 2.0 just like the previous model but better. The four-sided frameless NanoEdge display is still there with up to 95% screen-to-body ratio, accompanied by up to 8th Generation Intel Core i7 quad-core CPUs, up to NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q graphics, 16GB RAM, ultrafast PCIe SSDs and gigabit-class Wi-Fi 5. Unfortunately, there was no price tag announced for each laptop mentioned here. But it's said that they will be revealed in the third quarter of 2019 and probably at least one of these laptops might come to Malaysia, so stay tuned for that only at TechNave.com. Huaweis in a tight spot right now as many vendors and businesses sever ties with the Chinese manufacturer. It seems like Huawei had anticipated this move for awhile and has been working on their very own OS. Reports have surfaced that the OS may be named Ark OS instead of the initially thought HongMeng. The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) had received and published multiple trademarks filings from Huawei on the 24th of May. The filing seeks to patent the Huawei Ark OS, Huawei Ark and Ark OS names, hinting that one of these names would be chosen for their OS. So far, no announcement or confirmation has been done from Huawei in regards to this name but it is a huge step up over HongMeng in terms of global likeability. Digging thru Huawei patents from China. Here's one from 2017 for a UI design that looks a lot like Android but has this odd nav concept at the bottom of the screen... (there are literally no patents pointing to a new UI for "Hong Meng" OS or "Ark OS" or whatever they'll call it. pic.twitter.com/aI9E6FYKK8 Roland Quandt (@rquandt) May 27, 2019 Popular Twitter leaker Roland Quandt shared a Huawei patent in China from the year 2017. The patent shows a UI that looks almost similar to Android but with different navigational buttons at the bottom of the screen. What is also interesting is the fact that there are no later patents for any new UI from Huawei as of right now so it may be this layout that well see on Huawei devices. So what do you think of Huaweis may-be-UI? Keep up with the latest Huawei news and updates on TechNave.com! TiKTok's parent company Bytedance isn't satisfied being the most valued unicorn in the world which is probably why it is now venturing into the smartphone territory to take on big guns like Xiaomi and OnePlus. The Beijing-based company has decided to add one more jewel to its crown and include smartphones to its existing portfolio. The company already has TopBuzz, Lark, Feiliao, Doushan and a yet to be named music streaming app under its belt. According to The Financial Times, the ByteDance CEO Zhang Yiming always wanted to build smartphones. The Chinese company recently acquired the patent portfolio of smartphone maker Smartisan and got hold of some of its employees. ByteDance had claimed that the acquisition would help it to "explore the education business," but this recent news has given a completely new angle to the purchase. Also Read: TikTok is back on Google Play, Apple App Store after Madras HC lifts ban A smartphone with apps like TikTok preloaded will be the perfect way to grow for Bytedance and explore newer markets and expand. The device is likely to be a budget offering considering that most of TikTok's users are young people who may not have a very high budget for a smartphone. Bytedance isn't the only Chinese company which is looking to build a phone for its apps. Selfie app maker Meitu had earlier built a smartphone preloaded with its collection of photo editors. Later, Xiaomi gobbled up the selfie phone brand of Meitu. Not much is known about the new TiKTok phones or its specifications and design; however the new smartphone future could be throttled by the US governments' attitude towards Chinese phone majors. Also, many companies like Amazon have tried making phones and preloaded them with specific apps, but have failed. Bytedance has also faced challenges in India. Recently, the Madras High Court had directed the Centre to ban TikTok, saying that it promoted pornography and inappropriate content. 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Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe We were all conditioned to want more pixels for a good decade or more of our lives, and for a time it worked. At some point, however, the allure faded for me. I liked my 6-MP APS-C DSLR (a Konica-Minolta 7D). That was a special camera, made by a remarkable team of experienced engineers and a company with a vast wealth of knowledge. The files are still beautiful, and I have prints from them (made by Paul Butzi) that are in the 16x20-inch ballpark that continue to look fine to me (although people in the knowlike Orenwould see the telltales of uprezzing). And of course Ctein offered a demonstration "big print" in 2012 to show the kind of resolution a good printer could get out of a 12-MP Micro 4/3 sensor. That print continues to look fine to me too. Puzzlers, taken with the 6-MP K-M 7D in 2005. Photo by MJ. I sometimes idly wonder what a six-megapixel APS-C sensor made using today's technologies would look like. I just checked (using B&H's search panel headed "Still Image Resolution") and, apart from some inexpensive novelty-type products such as Canon's IVY CLIQ, which is described as a "Hybrid Digital Camera/ZINK Printer," 10 megapixels is apparently about the lowest number of pixels you can buy now in a serious camera. Do you remember Tommy Brown? You can see the size of his prints from the first picture at that link. Some of his prints were made with his current camera, a Sony that has 42MP. But some of the prints were made from 12-MP files. You could tell the difference if you looked, but all the prints looked fine and nothing called attention to itself with insufficient quality (except the prints made from 35mm B&W film, which were enlarged too much. Film can't keep up with digital). All the 12-MP prints were from older cameras, too, so presumably other things were different aside from just the number of pixels. Naturally, we all have different standards and preferences, and I know the standards and preferences of many other people will differ from my own. I'm sure there are people out there who would really like to investigate the new GFX 100. And there might even be a few people who would like more pixels than that. We all have different points of sufficiency. (a term I wrote about here. The footnotes of that 2009 post are interesting given recent developments, aren't they? That was before the Leica 50mm Apo-Summicron-M came out. But what I reported in the footnote was something I was told by a Leica rep.) Ctein wrote a column about the number of pixels we might theoretically need before we reach a point where we can't discern any more improvement. You can get a lot just from the title if you don't want to go read it: it was called "Why 80 Megapixels Just Won't Be Enough..." Where I fall This surprises me, but it's been nine years since I personally concluded, while trying out a Pentax K-5 that was introduced in September 2010, that I had discovered where the point of sufficiency was for me when it came to pixels. The K-5 seemed to have enough. After that (although I'm still occasionally susceptible to insecurity), my desire for more began to subside. The K-5 was a 16-MP camera. It's been almost ten years and I haven't appreciably changed my mind since then, surprisingly. I've owned several 24-MP cameras and one with 36 MP, and I've used a variety of others with higher-than-16-MP resolution. But I've never been really convinced it's anything I really personally need. Sixteen is sort of my baseline number now, and has been for quite a long time. I was surprised to find out just how long a time. Beautiful 19th-century "survivor" in Saylesville, Wisconsin. Taken with a Pentax K-5. Again, that's just my idiosyncratic personal judgementI understand you might feel differently, and if you do I won't argue with you for a second. We all have those different standards and preferences I mentioned. Everybody gets to say for themselves. There's no right or wrong answer. There's nothing at all wrong about wanting or needing 24 or 36 or 37 or 42 or 50 or 100 MP...or more. Well, maybe there's one thing that could be wrong with itthat would be if someone is merely reacting uncritically to marketing assumptions, and not actually deciding for themselves using their own eyes and their own visual taste. But no one around here would do that. :-) Mike P.S. I never could post-process that Saylesville Hall image. I tried it again and I still can't do it. Good thing for me it's not that great a picture. Original contents copyright 2019 by Michael C. Johnston and/or the bylined author. All Rights Reserved. Links in this post may be to our affiliates; sales through affiliate links may benefit this site. Amazon.com Amazon UK Amazon Canada Amazon Germany B&H Photo Adorama (To see all the comments, click on the "Comments" link below.) Featured Comments from: Carlos Quijana: "Agree. I was happy with my Nikon D100 (6 MP) and then with the D700 (12 MP). 16 MP is fine. More pixels haven't improved my photos, I have to say." Martin D: "Your 16MB sound right for me too, especially since my final prints are fairly small and in B&W. Noise characteristics to me are much more important than absolute resolution." Clay Olmstead: "If you're like me, and almost all of your pictures are seen on digital screens, the answer is purely mathematical: HDTV is 1920 x 1080 pixels; to avoid sampling error, you need to get above the Nyquist limit, so you want to have at least two times that many pixels in each direction; call that 2.5 just to have some margin of error. That makes a sensor that's 4800 x 2700, or 12.96 MP. Any more than that is just for cropping." Paul Judice: "I've worked in retouching for fashion brands since photographers shot film. My world was very concerned about the new digital cameras having enough resolution to make a store window display image, since those can be six or seven feet in height. For years I did a lot of test strips at final size to assess the damage, but since the 20 megapixel barrier was cracked, I've rarely heard any concerns." Dogman: "I like to relate how I decided digital photography could replace film photography for me. It was a photo I made in 2008 with an 8MP Canon DSLR that I cropped in half and printed (the best half) 8x11.5 inches. It looked really good framed and hanging on the wall. Later I printed it 13x19 inches and it still looks good on the wall. Today I'm using 16MP and 24MP cameras and I'm totally happy with the results." Thom Hogan: "Back in 2005 I wrote on my website that 24 MP was about where the crop sensor pixel push would end. That was based upon a whole bunch of calculations and assumptions (e.g. diffraction, and how print technologies might make low-level acuity pass through to visibility). "In essence, I was trying to do the sort of calculation that the audio market had done (e.g. 'how much can we actually hear?'). In retrospect and practice, I'd say the mark really was more around 20MP. Both 16 MP and 24 MP crop sensor are basically the one standard of deviation mark on either side, so I'm fine with anyone picking one of those. "With full frame (and certainly medium format), things change a little bit. You either gain cropping flexibility or maximum print size capability from those formats at the same pixel densities (basically where we are with the Z7 with 45MP). Most people really don't need either of those, frankly. "That said, I've long cautioned about what's going to happen with 'prints': they'll go digital. And they'll be on 8K or higher flat screens. 8K is 7680x4320, or 33MP. It's that 'or higher' part that will start to dictate just how good today's images look 50 years from now." Ger Lawlor: "Lens first, processing second and sensor thirdmatching the lens with the sensor is critical. "Just for fun, I recently repaired my Sony NEX-C3 (new screen for a few dollars). Using the same lenses it is definitely sharper per pixel than my A6000. At the other end of the spectrum, a client commissioned a 25-foot by 8-foot photograph last week and I also supplied four other images almost as large for a commercial job recently. (Showroom fit-outs.) Canon 5D MkIV, 85mm /1.8 at /8, ISO 100 bolted down, and an unsharpened stitch of 12 images processed very carefully is giving excellent results at 23 foot viewing distance. But it is also astonishing how well a 24-MP image upscales if done right. The biggest issue when doing crazy upscaling is sharpening artifacts, lens issues, and noise. Naturally, at this scale it often isn't any more than 96dpi native, but still, not bad." Alex Buisse: "It is far from the norm, but I have had a few clients request I do not shoot for them with my Nikon D4, as 16 MP was simply not high enough resolution for their needs, and the 36 MP of the D810 was the absolute minimum they would consider. For my personal shooting, though, I feel that 24 MP is more than enough for most uses." Mike replies: I heard the same thing about the original Canon EOS 1D (4 MP). A few clients were balking at the low resolution. You might recall that for a while Canon intended to split between "fast" (responsive) but low-resolution cameras, and slower but high-resolution cameras. The original 1D was complemented by the 1Ds in 2002, which had 11 MP and was the equivalent then of the GFX 100 now...bleeding edge! The 1D Mark II (2004) doubled the 1D's pixel count. Then again, back in the '80s I remember a pro telling me that he had to shoot 8x10 film for high-end watch catalogs even though the shots were going to be reproduced no more than three inches wide, and most considerably smaller than that. He tried to sell the client on medium format for efficiency's sake but they wouldn't go for it. They wanted "the best" and were willing to pay for it. SPRINGFIELD A constitutional amendment that would allow the General Assembly to set higher tax rates on greater amounts of income passed its last legislative hurdle Monday and will head to the voters for final approval about 18 months from now. After more than three hours of debate in which all 44 House Republicans spoke on the floor, the vote cleared its constitutionally mandated three-fifths majority by two votes. All 73 representatives voting in favor were Democrats. While Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker played no formal role in the legislative process to put the amendment on the ballot, at least one Democrat who previously said he would vote against the bill credited the governor for his sudden switch. I was a very vocal critic about this, obviously, I came out with some concerns, Rep. Jonathan Carroll, a Northbrook Democrat, said. Gov. Pritzker reached out to me right away, had some conversations with me and heard that my issue is property taxes. Along with his help and the help of my colleagues in the House and the Senate, were going to form a property tax task force to review how we tax in Illinois for property taxes and make sure that we do it better and we do it right. The state does not levy or collect property taxes in Illinois; only local taxing bodies such as school boards, municipal governments and counties have that authority. The largest contributor to most local tax bills are K-12 schools, which for years have faced funding shortfalls and proration from insufficient revenues provided by the state. Still, Carroll and Rep. Sam Yingling a Grayslake Democrat who also said at one time he would vote against the graduated tax said state action is needed to overhaul the property tax system and the graduated tax is part of that process. The current system does not work and we all know that, Yingling said in his floor speech. The process of property tax restructuring will not be easy. But I submit that that process begins today. Republicans, however, were more skeptical of any actual tax relief coming from the bill, and House Minority Leader Jim Durkin, R-Western Springs, accused the governor of horse trading in order to get the 73 votes in favor. Lets make no mistake. Todays vote is the end result of the Illinois Democrats historical, ravenous, irresponsible budgeting and spending, Durkin said. However it was also clear that todays vote was a fait accompli. Its a foregone conclusion. I know how this bill went down. I know how this amendment went down. And please, dont think that there wasnt any horse trading to get these votes. I know better, you know better, we know better. Senate Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 1s passage means the voters, in November 2020, will be given the opportunity to decide whether the state can have the authority to set graduated tax rates. Either 60 percent of those voting on the question or the majority of those voting in the election will have to support the measure for it to become law. While Pritzkers political capital helped guide the measure through the Legislature, his financial capital is expected to play an outsized role in the media campaign for its passage. The billionaire is an admitted donor to the dark money group Think Big Illinois, a 501(c)4 organization that has already sustained months of advertising efforts in favor of the graduated income tax the governor has dubbed the fair tax. For the next 18 months, Think Big will likely be joined on the air by two other dark money groups on the other side of the issue: Illinois Policy, the advocacy wing of conservative think tank Illinois Policy Institute, and Ideas Illinois, a business-backed group which has aligned itself against the tax. These groups have dubbed Pritzkers marquee initiative a jobs tax, a blank check to lawmakers and an unfair tax. The rhetoric of each side was matched on the House floor Monday and mirrored that of the Statehouse debate that has been ongoing since March. Democrats said added funding is needed to pay down debts and prevent ongoing cuts to education and programs designed to help the states neediest populations. Weve made year-after-year cuts to budgets like DCFS (Department of Children and Family Services), and now you have children dying because you have case workers that are overburdened and underpaid, Rep. Rob Martwick, a Chicago Democrat and the bills sponsor, said. So what are the solutions to these problems? The solutions are to eliminate our deficits, eliminate that structural deficit. When you do that, you start to right the ship. You can fund education, you can pay down debts. The options to do so, Martwick said, were to raise the states flat tax from 4.95 percent to 6.5 percent or higher, or to raise the $3.5 billion anticipated to come from the graduated rates. Republicans said the bill more likely provided incentive for the states wealthiest taxpayers and job creators to leave, and warned that no matter what rates are approved by this Legislature, they can be raised in the future. The graduated tax will give Springfield the ability to raise taxes on whoever they want by manipulating rates and brackets, Rep. Lindsay Parkhurst, a Kankakee Republican, said. The result will be an increase on the middle class. We cannot trust Springfield with any more of our money without real structural reforms to our state government and our political system. A bill setting graduated tax rates, which passed in committee Friday, was not approved by the House by 6 p.m. Monday. The House reconvenes at 9 a.m. Tuesday. The measure, Senate Bill 687, will require only 60 votes for passage, but cannot take effect unless the voters approve the graduated tax. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 7 SPRINGFIELD A pair of measures aimed at addressing high property taxes in the state passed committee Tuesday, one day after being touted by Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker upon passage of a graduated income tax constitutional amendment. Those measures will create a property tax relief fund (Senate Bill 39 Amendment 1), and a property tax task force (Senate Bill 1932 Amendment 2). "Today, I'm proud to announce a bipartisan and bicameral property tax task force that will review the entirety of our property tax system, study best practices in other states, and make short- and long-term recommendations by the end of the year, Pritzker said in a news conference Monday after the graduated income tax amendment passed the House. The creation of this task force will be included in our fair tax package, and will have the full support of my office." Republicans in the House Revenue and Finance Committee, however, were skeptical that any real property tax relief would result from the task force sponsored by Rep. Jonathan Carroll, a Northbrook Democrat, which passed committee unanimously. Ive been here five years, and I have absolutely no confidence that anything whatsoever will change other than the folks that like the status quo the way it is will destroy your hopes as they have everyone elses. Good luck, Rep. Margo McDermed, a Mokena Republican, said. Carroll, who was initially opposed to the graduated income tax amendment but credited the governor for his switch to supporting the measure, said he wasnt looking to the past, but the future. I would hope that youd be a part of the solution and not necessarily continue naysaying on it, he said. Carroll said the task force would make tough decisions, address across-the-board property tax drivers and would not be without teeth. Were going to look at every aspect of property taxes. Were going to look at ways we could reduce local property tax burdens across the board and these ideas will be taken seriously, he said. Members of the task force would be uncompensated and appointed by the governor, Senate and House leaders, and would include lawmakers and other local officials and community members, Carroll said. They plan to meet over the summer to bring recommendations forward next year. While the Republicans voted unanimously to pass the task force bill, all of them voted against the creation of the property tax relief fund. Rep. Rita Mayfield, a Waukegan Democrat, said there would be no new state revenues needed to sustain the fund, and it would be up to future state Legislatures to determine whether appropriations would be provided for the fund. McDermed, who serves on a capital infrastructure task force, said spare funds are not easy to come by in Illinois budget. I am not aware, and believe me, our group has scoured under every rock in the state of Illinois for a penny, so where exactly are you going to find this money? she asked. Rep. Daniel Didech, a Buffalo Grove Democrat and the bills sponsor, said determining funding would be a function of the task force. If the result of the task force is that we dont have the resources for this, then so be it, he said. But I think this is an important enough issue that it deserves close attention and we should do our due diligence to find out if there are the resources to provide property tax relief. According to the bill, moneys in the fund shall be used by the state comptroller to pay rebates to residential property taxpayers in the state. The state does not levy or collect property taxes in Illinois; only local taxing bodies such as school boards, municipal governments and counties have that authority. The largest contributor to most local tax bills are K-12 schools, which for years have faced funding shortfalls and proration from insufficient revenues provided by the state. McDermed questioned if it was a good idea to provide state tax relief without addressing local taxing bodies ability to raise their levies every year. I think that this idea that were going to subsidize local taxing bodies without reforming local taxing bodies or the way they tax is going to double down on the toxic taxing system that we have right now in the state of Illinois and this is not a well-taken proposition in any way shape or form, she said. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 President Donald Trumps recently unveiled immigration plan is going nowhere with members of both parties. But while this policy gridlock is nothing new on the federal level, the situation is quite different outside Washington. State and local governments are making immigration policy all the time, mostly for the worse, and often Democrats are more restrictionist than Republicans. Obviously the law can deter potential illegal migrants from entering the U.S. But so can the high cost of living. Even though there are much higher wages in the U.S. than in its neighbors to the South, a lot of those higher wages are eaten up by much higher rents especially if the immigrant moves to a major city, as is often the case. I once wrote a book based on fieldwork in rural Mexico, and I found that, for those who had migrated temporarily to the U.S., high rent was typically their biggest complaint. It therefore follows that policies which raise rents tend to discourage immigrants, particularly poorer immigrants. Which leads me to what recently happened in California, which is controlled by Democrats. The state legislature shelved a bill known as SB 50, which would have partially deregulated building and led to much denser construction. It was an anti-NIMBY bill that would have lowered rents, or at least stopped them from rising so rapidly. In essence, SB 50 was a pro-immigration bill. By turning it down, California lawmakers essentially engaged in restrictionist immigration policy, whether or not that was their intent. There are striking parallels between the philosophies of Trump and NIMBY urbanists. Trump asserts that America is full and so wants to restrict the flow of immigrants. The urbanists, who tend to be Democratic and highly educated, assert that their cities are too crowded and so want to restrict the supply of housing. The cultural valence of the two views is quite different, but the practical implications have a lot in common namely, a harder set of conditions for potential low-skilled migrants to the U.S. Note that most cities in Red America, especially those in Texas, have fewer building restrictions than San Francisco or Los Angeles. These red cities and counties, and by extension states, are relatively pro-immigration in this regard. The minimum wage is another tool of anti-immigration policy, at least for less skilled immigrants. So higher minimum wages are also a restrictionist immigration policy, at least for the poorest class of migrants. This is one of those truths that is inconvenient for people at both ends of the political spectrum. Higher-skilled immigrants, of course, would likely be earning above the minimum wage. Higher minimum wages could thus result in the kind of immigration policy many conservatives favor: discouraging the migration of the less skilled without choking off the migration of the more skilled. So dont pay too much attention to all the rhetoric at the national level. Immigration policy is about a lot more than just border enforcement or ICE raids. Its also about what kind of a living immigrants to the U.S. can earn, and on that score the Republicans are often the more pro-immigrant party. Cowen is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Chinese VP invited Punjab govt to enter economic cooperation with China LAHORE / TAXILA: Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan has invited the Punjab government to enter into economic cooperation with big provinces of China. Chief Minister Usman Buzdar and provincial ministers Hashim Jawan Bakht and Mian Aslam Iqbal welcomed the Chinese vice president at Lahore airport. Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing and Consul General Long Dingbin were present on the occasion. Mr Wang said he was very happy to visit Lahore. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Buzdar said his government was striving to promote the industrial sector. A number of facilities had been provided to the investors in Punjab, he added. He said the signing of agreements and memorandums of understanding with China would help start a new era of development and prosperity. Later, the Chinese vice president visited the Haier Ruba Economic Zone where he was given a briefing about the facility. Punjab Governor Chaudhry Sarwar hosted a dinner in honour of the Chinese vice president at Governor House. Chief Minister Buzdar, Punjab Assembly Speaker Pervaiz Elahi, federal minister Khusro Bakhtiar and provincial information minister Samsam Bukhari also attended the dinner. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Sarwar said the Pak-China friendship was based on the desire for peace, mutual values and culture. Stating that a major portion of Punjabs population comprised youths, the governor said there was a need to create new opportunities for them in textile, agriculture and technology sectors. He congratulated China for achieving fastest economic growth in the world and becoming chief architect of the Belt and Road Initiative, which is marking start of a new era of globalisation wherein 122 countries would be inter-connected by road, rail, air and sea. Mr Sarwar said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project was opening new opportunities for Pakistan and other Asian markets for exports and creating jobs in Pakistan. Earlier, the Chinese dignitary visited the archaeological museum in Taxila, where Buddhist artefacts and huge stucco images of Buddha are preserved. The ruins of an ancient Buddhist university are also nearby. Upon arrival at the museum, Mr Wang was welcomed by officials of the Punjab department of archaeology and museums. Museums Curator Mohammad Nasir Khan briefed the Chinese guest about the history of Gandhara civilisation, various statues and other artefacts. OCAB Community Action Agency Inc. staff members were recently honored with award presentations at the joint annual statewide Spring Training Conference of the South Carolina Community Action Partnership and South Carolina State Head Start Association held in Myrtle Beach. Janice Spells Jamison and ShanNain Washington, staff in OCABs Community Services Block Grant and Low Income Home Energy Assistance programs, and LaTrell Mendoza, Head Start parent volunteer and secretary of the programs policy council, received top state awards in their categories for outstanding accomplishments over the past year. Janice Spells Jamison Spells Jamison was presented the 2019 Gilbert G. Gigi Zimmerman Memorial Award as the South Carolina Community Action Partnerships outstanding CSBG program director. An OCAB employee for 27 years, Spells Jamison has served as CSBG/LIHEAP project director for 11 years, having formerly worked as a teacher and later transition coordinator in the OCAB Head Start Program. Award criteria included the nominees records of service, projects implemented to help low-income residents become self-sufficient, and education and training credentials earned. Spells Jamison earned an M.Ed. in curriculum and instruction from Lesley University in 2006, and an MS in Individual and Family Development from South Carolina State University in 2000, where she previously received the bachelor of science in home economics/family development. Spells Jamisons array of accomplishments includes selection as a Community Action Agency Ambassador in 2018, and numerous training certifications. She is a certified child development associate professional development specialist; a nationally certified results-oriented management and accountability trainer; and a certified family services strengths-based instructor. LaTrell Mendoza LaTrell Mendoza, Head Start Policy Council secretary and vice president of the OCAB Head Start Neeses Center Parent Committee, received the coveted statewide parent of the year award from the S.C. State Head Start Association. A Head Start alumna, she also serves on the councils personnel committee. Parents of enrolled Head Start students elected by their local center committees make up the majority of representatives on the Head Start Policy Council, with the balance of slots filled by representatives of community organizations. Mandated by the Head Start Act, policy councils establish direction for their respective projects, approve and help evaluate program plans, and make decisions that impact the children and families served. Mendoza is a single parent who has invested more than 40 hours of service to Head Start during the 2018-19 school year. Mendoza volunteers at the center when she is not otherwise fulfilling her duties as a full-time paralegal at Bamberg Legal LLC. Also an alumna of OCABs Summer Youth Employment and Training Program operated under the former Job Training Partnership Act, Mendoza ensures that her son participates in activities at the OCAB Head Start Neeses Center and sends representatives from the firms community outreach program when she cannot attend. Doing this work, Mendoza says, allows her to pursue her passion of helping and serving people on a daily basis. With an associate degree in criminal justice and a paralegal degree from Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College, Mendoza is an honors graduate of Edisto High School. She obtained an insurance license from Brewers Insurance School, and also attended the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, earning certificates in basic law and basic jail. After working in law enforcement and for the S.C. Department of Social Services, Mendoza believes that all her education and experience helped prepare her to assume the position she currently holds. She says growing up in a family of very modest means was difficult at times because her disabled mother could not always afford the fees required to participate in special events and trips for which her academic achievements qualified her. It was her mother who ensured that she always had food, clothes, shelter and most importantly, love, Mendoza said. This has inspired her, in turn, to be the best parent she can be, to encourage her children to work toward their dreams. Her goal is to accumulate more knowledge and work experience in the legal field before heading off to law school and eventually becoming an attorney. ShanNain Washington ShanNain Washington, CSBG and LIHEAP coordinator at the OCAB Calvin Wright Center in Orangeburg, was presented the Charles Turner Career Development Award and Scholarship for the S.C. Community Action Partnership. She is enrolled in the counselor education graduate program at S.C. State University, and aspires to work as a school counselor in order to help the children who need guidance and role models. With five children of her own, two of whom are enrolled in the Head Start Program, Washington says she applied for the scholarship not only to offset the costs of attending school but to demonstrate to her children that they should never allow setbacks to keep them from pursuing their dreams. Washington is a 2012 graduate of Claflin University with a bachelor of science in sociology. In addition to her OCAB duties, she frequently volunteers at the OCAB Head Start Center in Orangeburg, all while maintaining and managing a household of seven. Her husband, the Rev. Tyrone Washington, is the pastor of Orangeburgs Power House Outreach Ministries, and serving as the first lady of the church keeps her busy. However, her faith sustains her, and allows her to continue her commitment to education so that her family will benefit. Washington advises others to gather courage to believe that you can succeed, and leave no stone unturned to make it a reality. The theme for the conference was Helping People Climb the Ladder to Opportunity." The event featured keynote addresses by 6th District Congressman James E. Clyburn, U.S. House of Representatives majority whip; David Bradley, executive director of the National Community Action Foundation; and Fred Baker, senior training associate at Leading to Change, a nationally awarded professional development and training agency. The annual meeting draws some 500 representatives of community action agencies and Head Start programs from around the state. OCAB Community Action Agency Inc. is a private, nonprofit agency whose mission is to eliminate the causes and conditions of poverty in Orangeburg, Calhoun, Allendale and Bamberg counties by developing resources to improve the quality of life for disadvantaged and underserved residents. Calvin Wright is the executive director. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Jordan Tyrek David Walters, 21, of 739 Gabby Hall Court, Holly Hill, pleaded guilty to first-offense possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Circuit Judge DeAndrea G. Benjamin sentenced him earlier this month under the Youthful Offender Act not to exceed six years, suspended to two years of probation. As part of his plea agreement, prosecutors dismissed Walters charge of first-offense possession with intent to distribute cocaine base. In other pleas: Kendrick Lewis Grigsby, 26, of 1765 Saxon Drive, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a crime of violence. Benjamin sentenced him to three years in prison, suspended to the service of 90 days. She gave Grigsby credit for having already served two days at the Orangeburg County Detention Center. Grigsby is allowed to serve his time on weekends. Henry Purvis Winter IV, 34, of 255 Arrowhead Road, Bowman, pleaded guilty to failure to stop for blue light, first-offense driving under suspension and resisting arrest. Benjamin sentenced him to one year in prison, suspended to 90 days in jail. Shes allowing Winter to serve his time on weekends. As part of his plea agreement, prosecutors dismissed Winters charge of first-offense DUI. Tyrone Al Joyce, 45, of 314 Lloyd Street, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to second-offense possession of less than one gram of crack cocaine and possession of less than 28 grams of marijuana. Benjamin sentenced him to 30 days in jail or a fine of $100. Contact the writer: mbrown@timesanddemocrat.com or 803-533-5545. Follow on Twitter: @MRBrownTandD. 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. American Red Cross disaster-trained volunteers are assisting a person whose home, located on Sawyer Street in Orangeburg, was damaged by a fire. Orangeburgs Department of Public Safety responded to the blaze. The Red Cross is helping one adult by providing financial assistance for food, clothing, lodging and other essentials, and comfort kits containing personal hygiene items. For safety tips and help creating a family emergency plan, download the Red Cross Emergency app at redcross.org/apps. People wanting to assist with Red Cross efforts can donate by visiting redcross.org or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS. Information about volunteer opportunities is available at the same website. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 WASHINGTON -- When author Mark Childress penned "Crazy in Alabama," he wasn't just whistling Dixie. "I haven't been quoted this much since Roy Moore," Childress recently told me, referring to last week's coverage of Alabama's passage of a law banning abortion in nearly all circumstances. Moore, of course, was an Alabama U.S. Senate candidate who lost a 2017 race after accusations surfaced of past inappropriate sexual conduct with underage girls.. So, is Alabama really crazy? Is Georgia, which recently passed a "heartbeat bill" banning abortion after the baby's heartbeat can be detected, usually at around six weeks? (Neither law has taken effect, and both will surely be challenged in court.) Lest I be chastened for daring humanize an embryo, let me state for the record that the correct term for "heartbeat" is "fetal pole cardiac activity," because at six weeks, said embryo doesn't have a cardiovascular system and, therefore, no fully-formed, beating heart. The question of craziness, meanwhile, depends upon one's definition of crazy. Is Alabama crazier than New York, where some protections for babies "born" alive during an abortion were recently eliminated, making it easier to end their life if desired by the abortion seeker? Is Alabama crazier than Virginia, where Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam seemed to support infanticide back in January when commenting on a proposed bill that would relax some of the state's abortion restrictions? In a radio interview, he said that in cases where a mother goes into labor with a late-term fetus that has "severe deformities there may be a fetus that's not viable 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." Trying to clarify after the inevitable firestorm, Northam's office later said that the "discussion" would be regarding medical prognosis and treatment, not ending the life of the newborn. For a physician, Northam seems challenged to express himself medically. And consider this: Although only about 1.4% of abortions occur at or after 21 weeks, the Guttmacher Institute's data suggest that "most women seeking later terminations are not doing so for reasons of fetal anomaly or life endangerment." Just to be clear. The crucial aspect of both the New York law and Virginia's proposed law (which as been tabled, for now) is that they reduce medical oversight of late-term abortions. In both cases, only one doctor would be involved in deciding and performing a late-term abortion, eliminating additional physicians who can tend to a baby that survives an abortion. New York previously had required two doctors in the room; Virginia required that three doctors certify that continuing the pregnancy would likely cause the patient's death or that it would "substantially and irremediably impair" her mental or physical health. Thus, a single doctor could decide that a woman's perhaps fleeting state would be sufficient to end a baby's potentially viable life. Some Americans may find these adjustments acceptable, though they are surely few. More important is to understand that the extremism of what New York did -- and Virginia attempted to do -- invited the extremism of Alabama, Georgia and other pro-life states. Nevertheless, pro-life legislative efforts haven't been for naught. Fence-sitters may now see more clearly on which side to plant their feet. In a 2016 Pew poll, 69% of Americans opposed overturning Roe vs. Wade. But most people are comfortable with limitations. We can quibble over where those limits should be, but nothing will ever please everyone. Where insight fails, facts are often helpful: Biologically, life begins at conception. Full stop. A fetus is not part of a woman's body except as is umbilically necessary to sustain its life. Otherwise, it is a free-floating human being with its own unique DNA. If left to develop according to nature's course, the little tadpole would become a fully formed human baby and, barring unforeseen circumstances, grow up to become a regular reader of this column. It is ironic, meanwhile, that as pro-life activists radicalize their agenda, abortion rates are in steady decline. Likewise, pro-choicers are radicalizing their agenda as birth rates are no longer sufficient to replace the current population. Whatever transpires in the legal realm, I'll always wonder how acceptance of destroying the pre-born has affected our humanity. And how many among the over 60 million Americans aborted since 1973 were destined to shape a better world. I know. Crazy. South Carolinian and Pulitzer Prize winner Kathleen Parker's email address is kathleenparker@washpost.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Maryam Nawaz party position challengey by PTI The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday heard a petition filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in which party office given to Maryam Nawaz by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) was challenged. A three-member bench headed by Chief Election Commissioner Justice (r) Sardar Raza Khan heard the petition challenging Maryam Nawazs appointment as vice president of the PML-N. The PTI counsel informed the bench that Maryam Nawaz was appointed as the partys vice president on May 3, 2019. He said Maryam has been convicted by an accountability court and declared disqualified for holding any political or public office, adding that her appointment as PML-N vice president is in conflict with the law and the constitution. The petitioner said the high court had suspended Maryam Nawazs sentence on September 19. According to a Supreme Court decision, a convicted person cannot hold a public office, the counsel said, and argued that Maryam is ineligible under the law to hold office of the PML-N. The CEC asked whether it is an appointment or election on the party office. No intra-party elections were held for this PML-N office, the counsel responded. Red Cross Luxembourg presented its annual report detailing its work in 2018, a year in which they faced a number of challenges. In the annual report, the NGO highlighted that housing remains the most significant issue contributing to social exclusion. To add to the challenge, it is also the most difficult issue to resolve in Luxembourg. Red Cross Luxembourg believes that having access to appropriate housing is imperative, whether that is for young single mothers, unemployed people or those with long-term illnesses, or indeed the homeless. This belief has been at the heart of the NGO's new coordinated housing strategy. The Red Cross is active in providing different services to targeted groups in the domain of housing. The director general of the Red Cross, Michel Simonis, highlighted that thousands of people made use of the NGO's structures, whether for a night or throughout the year. He pointed out that the "constant increase of the cost of housing is having consequences on vulnerable people." These consequences affect people of all ages and can have different forms: different people can struggle with making ends meet on modest salaries, have difficulties keeping their homes if they lose their jobs or are suffering from long-term illnesses, or find it impossible to rent a home as a refugee. The director of Red Cross Luxembourg's solidarity activities, Gilles Dhamen, explained that the organisation has decided to strengthen its activities in the housing domain as a result of these difficulties and different propositions made by employees. The Red Cross has set up a dedicated unit which will work with public and private actors involved in the sector, all with the goal of facilitating the development of projects concerning those are vulnerable in society. One example would be to contribute towards creating innovative and collaborative solutions to the lack of housing, as well as help in providing insight on how to answer difficult questions, such as calculating affordable rent schemes, the practicalities of gaining public subsidies, and finding socially diverse tenants. Dhamen highlighted that the Red Cross could use its experience to provide answers to these questions and help those willing to provide solutions and collaborate with the NGO. Simonis stressed that Red Cross Luxembourg is able to be involved in so many different activities purely thanks to volunteers, donors, and the support and collaboration of the authorities and other actors. He cited the organisation's statistics as proof that it is growing: compared to 2017, the Red Cross's workforce has grown by 7% to 2,400. Cheyenne artist and retired art teacher Lynn Newman recalls a class of first-graders who all made paintings of snowmen with blue paint. But one boy dipped his brush in red. Red is the way snow feels, the boy explained, when he pressed his hands onto the snow to make a snowman. Some of my best teachers were little kids, Newman said. Their lesson that day was to learn about dark and light values by using only one color. The boy had gone far beyond the class lesson into what artists strive for at the highest level to gain meaning from elements like color or shape, he said. So again, I think that thats what art is, Newman said. Theres kind of these parameters, but were always trying to push those parameters. His show Hope, Love and Dreams is on display through Aug. 18 at the Nicolaysen Art Museum. He plans an artist talk June 20 and will give a painting workshop June 21. Newman has expressed his hopes and dreams through art since he was 6 years old, according to his artist statement. So whether youre 60, 6 or pushing 70, the reality is the drawing is literally the same its the same experience that I felt when I was 6 years old, and I still feel today, Newman said last week while hanging his show. Because, essentially, I just love doing this stuff. If other people, hopefully, can connect with that, I think thats part of what we want to share. But it begins with essentially just digging in and seeing where it goes. So these are all examples of digging in a different ways. Art and learning More than 80 of Newmans paintings fill the main gallery at the Nicolaysen with vibrant colors and motion-filled brushstrokes. The oil and watercolor images span 30 years of his life. Images of draft horses, migratory birds, Western landscapes and flowers often symbolize bonds with loved ones, his aspirations and ideas about art. Some paintings featured coded messages, which at first were inspired by his time as the art coordinator for Laramie County School District 1 when meetings focused on data, and words like assessment and accountability were bandied about, he said. But really, for artists, its how do you take something and how do you keep growing with it? Newman said. After he retired, he began to incorporate words into the paintings to represent what he learned from the process of creating them, he said. Hed tear words out of dictionaries and glue them to paintings after he painted them. In The Migration of the Sandhill Cranes, depicting birds in flight, he added words including suspension, quality, dreams and express. He thinks of adding the words to the paintings as a test for himself. Its like the discovery is what did I learn? he said. Because its never what I thought it would be. You know I think that theres always this its a transformation. I think as you work on something, it changes the way you observe things. The words further communicate his ideas. He was taught in art school that the art needs to speak for itself, he said. And then at 68 I decided, Eh, I can tell people. Heres a hint, Newman said. Another painting in the show came from a workshop in an Art Institute of Chicago teacher exchange program, which focused on the idea of whether a subject is necessary if the goal is color, movement and line, he said. So that idea really made me uncomfortable, he said. But it stuck with me, so I kept thinking about it. As he wondered later what the painting was and what its really about, he summarized what he learned in the lesson in words he wrote around the four sides. Drawing lessons always start even though you dont know where to begin, the words begin. Always give yourself permission to fail so you can succeed. Always connect with your heart as well as your mind. To my mind, this is a drawing lesson, Newman said. And to my mind, this is accountability. The power of images In a painting of loose, fluid lines forming a group of running horses called Chemistry of Love, Newman glued on pieces of drawings his children made when they were little and one his daughter drew to explain to him some of her work in her inorganic chemistry doctorate program. He glued on words, some handwritten, including sharing, respect and love. I dont understand a word shes saying, but I love the fact that shes trying to share with me, he said. And so I think that that to me, this is that idea of what art is. Its really a hidden language. The messages, like those in ancient pictographs that always strike him, are left to ones own interpretation, he said. So to me thats that the art part, where the flower is part of a symbol, a horse is part of a symbol or these images on rocks, he said. And so were each coming in and were creating our own marks for other people to decipher in some way. And so again the words become part of that. A few pieces tell stories directly about his experiences, like one of his earlier paintings in dark, contrasting colors, illustrating the time he and his family heard a grizzly bear roar while camping at night, followed by the scream of a horse running away. Other storylines are more abstract, he said, like another earlier painting of a boldly colored flower bud that to him represents the idea of breaking free, Newman said. He painted it during a time when he was pondering questions like how to find time to create art while making a living, he said. To me that was just kind of a reminder (that) a flower doesnt have to look like a flower when its done, he said. Just let it be what it wants to be. He painted flowers for his thee children around the time they graduated from high school, he said. Two appear in the show. Theyre flowering and theyre blooming and theyre going their own direction, he said. The flowers happened to be from the backyard, and to him they represent the work of keeping a dialogue going with family members. It can be sharing a flower, he said. Newmans paintings of draft horses are inspired by his family when he was growing up. Hes been drawing draft horses since childhood visits to his grandfathers farm, he said. As time goes on, they take on different meaning to the artist. For instance, Newman spotted some plow horses raking hay while he was on the way home from a visit to his brother in North Dakota that ended on bad terms. Newman sent his brother some images of the horses, which helped them connect over memories of their grandfather pulling them with horses as kids. The dreams and hopes were tattered, Newman said, but the love was enough to keep it going. Newman later painted Hidden Language Horses referencing his past with his brother and continuing connections, he said. So its that power of images, he said. We learn as we go Newman, a North Dakota native, created about half of the paintings in the show after retiring from a career teaching kindergarten through 12th grade. Hes taught in South Dakota and Shoshoni before finishing his teaching career at Cheyenne Central High School. He attended the Columbus College of Art and Design and finished his bachelors and masters degrees at Montana State. With his upcoming Painting FUNdamentals workshop, Newman will aim to inspire others to enjoy the process of creating, he said. Theyll explore how Van Gogh created different moods with color. At one point theyll paint with twigs, which helps free people to enjoy immersing themselves in art rather than being concerned with skill or materials, he said. The twigs break, and they decide to use the other end or break another one. That becomes part of the process, Newman said. The unexpected can lead to new discoveries and developments artists didnt think of at the start, he said. And whether youre 6 or 60 or 70, we learn as we go, he said. And I think just keeping that in mind, thats a freeing thing that Hey, if that one didnt turn out so good, Ill do another one. He encourages others to allow themselves permission to simply begin creating art and to think in terms of questions. Its not a declarative sentence, he said. There is not one way of looking at it. Follow reporter Elysia Conner on Twitter @erconner Love 1 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. A male juvenile was arrested Friday at Dean Morgan Junior High on suspicion of making terroristic threats, according to a law enforcement records released Tuesday. The student, whose name was not listed on the records, was arrested at 2 p.m. at the central Casper middle school. The arresting officer was Officer Walker Galloway, who is one of the school resource officers in the Natrona County School District. The listed offense is terroristic threats, a felony that is defined as an act intended to cause evacuation of a building, place of assembly or facility of public transportation and is punishable up to three years in prison. District Attorney Dan Itzen largely declined to comment on the case by phone Tuesday afternoon, citing the cases confidentiality in juvenile court. He said his office did not have reason to believe the child ever possessed explosive devices, whether improvised or otherwise. He said he did not know how police were informed of the alleged threats. The school was evacuated Friday afternoon after authorities became aware of the threat, though how it was made and how officials came to know about it remains unclear. The building was swept by law enforcement, no device was found, and no one was injured. Spokeswomen for the district and the Casper Police Department said Friday that a person of interest had been arrested, but both declined to comment on whether the suspect was a student. A police spokeswoman said late Tuesday afternoon that she could not immediately provide further information regarding the nature of the threat. Police responded to the school at about 12:50 p.m. and declared the school safe by 1:30 p.m. Around 2 p.m., two police cruisers one driven by Galloway pulled away from the building. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 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. Seth Klamann Education and Health Reporter Seth Klamann joined the Star-Tribune in 2016 and covers education and health. A 2015 graduate of the University of Missouri and proud Kansas City native, Seth worked for newspapers in Milwaukee and Omaha before coming to Casper. Follow Seth Klamann 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 The Fremont County Attorneys Office said Tuesday it determined local poll workers did not violate state elections law during last years elections, despite concerns raised by the Wyoming Democratic Party. The investigation came after a request earlier this month by state Democrats to examine issues experienced by tribal members on the Wind River Indian Reservation during the 2018 general election. According to a letter from Fremont County Attorney Patrick LeBrun to Wyoming Democratic Party Chairman, Joe Barbuto, earlier this week, the investigation prompted by two specific incidents at the polls during last years elections there yielded no evidence that local election officials misapplied state law. In his initial May 15 letter, Barbuto wrote those incidents which included confusion over the proper identification required to vote and individuals being asked to read an oath aloud, prompting concerns of an illicit literacy test may have constituted certain violations of state elections law. In the letter, he offered to provide several written accounts of those incidents from eyewitnesses, which Barbuto said were written shortly after the incidents had occurred in late October. Nobody was blocked from voting in either of those incidents, according to a statement last week from Fremont County Clerk Julie Freese. In fact, my deputies made extraordinary efforts to make sure that all eligible persons desiring to register and vote were allowed to do so, Freese wrote. The investigations primary sources included written statements provided by the state Democratic Party, the Fremont County clerk and a number of personal interviews, including election workers, civilian poll watchers and local party officials, among others, LeBrun told the Star-Tribune on Tuesday. The probe shows poll workers did the right thing, Secretary of State Ed Buchanan said in a statement. It is clear from the results of the investigation that the Fremont County Clerks office performed its duties in accordance with the law and, in fact, went above and beyond to assist voters, Buchanan said in a statement. The findings The results of LeBruns investigation come several months after the state Democratic Party made its earliest concerns with voting on the reservation known in October, when a Democratic organizer on the reservation said she and other activists faced difficulties when trying to vote early in Fremont County. The timing of the incidents was especially concerning to Democrats, coinciding with voting difficulties that had been reported on Indian reservations around the country. In Ethete, for example, some at the polls were asked to read an election oath aloud to an election judge, which tribal members said constituted a literacy test which would have been a violation of state law. While the process was not in line with training, LeBrun wrote, the reading of the oath was not being used as a literacy test, but instead as a means to ensure those individuals understood whether or not they were actually eligible to vote. He added that if voters were unable to read the oath, the oath would be read to them. This was done, LeBrun explained, because the head judge in Ethete once mistakenly registered a voter whom she later learned was a convicted felon and was therefore barred from voting. To ensure that anyone who registered to vote understood the law, the clerk asked them to read the oath aloud, or be read the oath so they understood those rules. None of those asked to do so complained to the clerk about the process, LeBrun wrote. That explanation, the Wyoming Democrats said in a statement on Tuesday, was not sufficient. A voting process that exists because of the personal feelings of one election judge, outside of the official training provided, is an effective form of voter suppression even if the victims of that process do not bring complaints to those in power, the statement read. We are considering our next steps. Meanwhile in Lander, two women attempting to register to vote early had difficulties with an employee at the clerks office, leading to an escalation of the situation that a tribal organizer, Lynnette Grey Bull, characterized to the Star-Tribune at the time as racist behavior. LeBrun, however, found this was due not to willful attempts to suppress the vote, but a misunderstanding of the requirements in place under the federal Help America Vote Act, which regulates local election officers. While the women looking to register attempted to use their tribal identification cards and their social security numbers, federal law requires that those with a drivers license which one of the woman had use that number to register. If someone couldnt find their drivers license, or did not have a physical copy in their possession, the county clerk could look it up through a database managed by the Wyoming Department of Motor Vehicles though that process can be time consuming. This is how one of the women named in the initial request was eventually registered. Freese noted Tuesday that if voters have a drivers license, they must give that number to the registrar when attempting to register to vote. If a prospective voter does not have a drivers license, other forms of I.D. as approved by the Secretary of States office can then be accepted. An improved list of those requirements was posted to the Fremont County Clerks Offices website last week. Everybody has the same act they have to follow, which is hooking your system up to that of a state agency to make sure the person standing in front of you is checked somehow, to make sure theyre eligible to vote, Freese said. Then, you I.D. them to make sure that person is who they say they are. Its sort of a two-pronged approach. The Fremont County Attorneys Office came to a similar understanding. After reviewing this case, it is clear the group was upset, LeBrun wrote. It is apparent, however, that it stemmed, to great extent, from a misunderstanding of the law and genuine belief, although incorrect, that they should have been allowed to register purely through use of their tribal identification. Continuing efforts Freese a lifelong Fremont County resident who was born on the Reservation said the issues themselves could be sourced to one significant problem: miscommunication. In the future, the Wyoming Legislatures Subcommittee on Tribal Relations will be engaging with representatives from the reservation to improve protocols around I.D. requirements, and Freese said she will continue to take part in efforts to register voters locally as well as communicate election law both to voters and the countys more than 300 election judges. There are federal laws we have to follow, and its been very confusing, Freese said. Weve tried everything we can think of to make sure its more easily understood. Follow politics reporter Nick Reynolds on Twitter @IAmNickReynolds Love 5 Funny 0 Wow 0 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. Not all students are destined for a traditional college education. Some will thrive in vocational careers like welding, auto repair or carpentry. Thats especially the case in Wyoming, where the energy industry offers many good-paying jobs that require a skill set developed through technical education. To prepare students for vocational careers, school districts must employ instructors who are trained in both industrial fields and teaching a unique but important combination of skills. The right instructor will not only provide the training needed to succeed in a technical career, but will also inspire students who might not have connected with more traditional academics. Thats why we were critical of the University of Wyomings decision two years ago to do away with its program that trains future career technical education teachers. And its also why we are glad the university has changed course and opted to restart the program in the 2021-22 academic year. Without it, our state would risk losing a generation of teachers who can help students gain the critical skills theyll need to graduate high school and succeed in the work force. The university did not eliminate the program wantonly. At the time, UW was responding to a decline in funding brought on by the energy industry downturn. Administrators reviewed about a dozen program to gauge student interest. That review found technical education suffered from low enrollment: Only 15 students graduated from the program between 2010 and 2015. But those numbers might not have told the whole story. The program was apparently not well advertised, enough so that some recruiters didnt even know it existed. And even if the pool of applicants for the program is small, the students who graduate from it will play a critical role in preparing a new generation of students to fill an important need for our state. Thats why the decision two years ago to close the program generated such criticism. Teachers who graduated from the program warned that our high schools would stop offering career technical education courses if they couldnt find qualified teachers. Since that time, legislators, school districts and other constituents have made it clear just how important it is for us to graduate career technical educators, and we are responding accordingly, College of Education Dean Ray Reutzel said in a statement announcing the decision to restart the program. The University of Wyoming deserves credit for hearing those voices and reconsidering its decision. Wisely, the school says it will maintain the program for two years while a task force, in collaboration with Wyoming community colleges and others, re-envisions the career technical education degree. Hopefully, that task forces work will result in a more vibrant, well-attended program. It would have been easy, in the face of criticism, for administrators to dig in their heels. Instead, they listened. Our students, business community and our entire state will benefit from that wise choice. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Continuing to invest in Yellowstone National Park, two concessionaires are seeking permission to add RV sites, small modular homes, and laundry and bathroom facilities to alleviate crowding for seasonal workers at Canyon Village and West Yellowstone. The work is outlined in a draft environmental assessment published by the park and now open for public comment until June 14. Additional housing is needed because concessions staffing levels have increased to accommodate growing visitor use and expanded visitor services; however, housing supply has not expanded commensurate with staffing levels, according to the assessment. Some housing is available in gateway communities, but distances to places of work make daily commuting impractical, especially for employees in the parks interior. West Yellowstone is the most popular entrance to the park, and Canyon Village sits on the edge of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the Upper and Lower waterfalls. West Near the parks West Entrance, Delaware North Corp. which operates 12 general stores within the park is proposing to build 25 RV sites and a bath house adjacent to an already developed area that includes the General Store Warehouse. The sites would be used for seasonal housing for General Store employees from late March through early November. Delaware North already owns several properties in West Yellowstone, including hotels, apartment buildings, and an RV Park for visitors and employees, according to the document, but theres no room to expand its existing RV park. Officials are still working out how the new RV sites could be hooked into the small towns maxed-out sewer and water systems. Since 2016, the town has notified residents that theres little capacity for either system to add new residential or commercial customers. The towns primary water source, Whiskey Springs, has seen its flow decrease. The problem is noted in the report, which states that the park will work with West Yellowstone to secure necessary permits prior to any new water use for the RV sites. Although West Yellowstone has the second largest sewage plant in Gallatin County, it lacks lagoon space to accommodate additional sewer hookups. The environmental assessment said the town is in the process of developing a new sewage lagoon to handle more use. Canyon At Canyon Village, Xanterra Parks & Resorts would use a now-abandoned wing of a campground for as many as 14 RV sites and six modular homes, each about 650 square feet in size. Existing facilities would be rehabilitated to provide shower and laundry services. As visitation has grown, it will be nice to have enough facilities for our employees, said Mike Keller, general manager of Xanterras Yellowstone National Park Lodges. At full staffing Canyon has 550 employees, Keller said. This would be the first of several planned improvements for Xanterra at Canyon Village. In the future the company has plans to: renovate its 50-room dormitory that was built in 1956, build a new dormitory with another 60-80 rooms, and construct four new cabins and a bathhouse for wranglers, as well as a pub and recreation hall for its workers. At Lake, Xanterra has plans to rebuild the lodge cafeteria and the hotel kitchen in the future. Adding up The proposals are the most recent in a string of improvements Xanterra has made in the nations first national park, which annually is attracting about 4 million visitors. Since 2003 Xanterra has built new employee housing at Old Faithful and Lake; constructed five new lodges at Canyon; updated its Canyon restaurant; and refurbished the historic Lake Hotel and cabins, Old Faithful Inn and renovated Grant Village lodging facilities. All told the company owns nine lodging facilities in the park that can house 2,287 people. So far Xanterras investment in infrastructure has added up to more than $170 million since 2013 with another $25 million being invested to upgrade the Fishing Bridge campground built in 1963 and the remaining 66 Lake cabins, Keller said. It never ends here, he said. Keller added that his company sees the spending on infrastructure as a good investment. Its also our responsibility to keep these facilities up and running to meet visitor needs, he said. Also in the works in Yellowstone is the Park Services modernization of the historic Mammoth Hotel. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 MNA provoked people in North Waziristan to launch attack on army checkpost: Murad Saeed Minister for Communications Murad Saeed on Monday lamented that a member of the National Assembly had provoked people in North Waziristan to launch an attack on an army checkpost in the tribal district. Speaking on the floor of the Lower House, Murad said there are video clips available as to how the army checkpost came under attack in the tribal district. He said the protest sit-in was peacefully ongoing for two or three days, adding, MNA Mohsin Dawar telephoned people and urged them to attack the post when the time came to fulfill their demands. Murad said the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) came into being after murder of Naqeeb Ullah Mehsud in Karachi, adding that his alleged killer Rao Anwaar was quoted as a brave child by the PPP leadership. Mohsin Dawar used to give statements in favor of drone attacks in erstwhile FATA when tribal people were mourning over the deaths of their dear ones, he added. Murad Saeed said a resolution was tabled in the assembly by PTI while sitting on the opposition benches in the wake of APS and Charsada attacks to ensure fencing on Afghan border and improving security management there. Unfortunately, it was opposed by some elements who are more loyal to someone else than Pakistan, he lamented. The minister questioned as to why Imtiaz Wazir of the National Directorate of Security (NDS) of Afghanistan handed over the boy of Tahir Dawar to PTM if they have no links with it. I question Mohsin Dawar why did the NDS chief say he will only hand over the body of martyred SP Tahir Dawar to Mohsin Dawar, he said. What relation does Mohsin Dawar and NDS chief have? These two people Mohsin Dawar and Ali Wazir have taken oath on constitution which bars all citizens from speaking anything which hurts the integrity and defense of the country, yet they speak ill of the states institutions, he lamented. The minister said that PkMAP leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai made CNICs of Afghan people to get votes. He said the irrational approach of the previous governments after the end of terrorism activities in former FATA resulted in creating a sense of deprivation among the people there. However, Imran Khan announced a package of Rs 22 billion for the tribal people and visited from Bajur to Waziristan to give respect to them, he added. The minister said military operations were launched in 2009 and 2014 against terrorists in tribal areas on the request of the then governments. The gallant forces cleared the area from mischievous elements but the then governments failed to restore the normal life there. The rehabilitation process, construction of colleges and houses were among the responsibilities of the previous governments but they did not focus on it. The sense of deprivation among people of the erstwhile FATA is due to the irresponsible attitude of the previous governments, he maintained. Condemning the attack on army checkpost, former defence minister and PML-N leader Khawaja Asif said sacrifices of the security forces against terrorism are remarkable. He lamented that no member had said anything in the parliament about Sundays incident, which, he said, is a mockery of the House. He said the country stands at a critical juncture in the history and that it needs to fix the fault lines. Condemning the attack, he said Pakistan Armys checkpost should not have been assaulted at any cost. A Turkish restaurant is taking up residence in the old Mays Counter Chicken & Waffles space on East Speedway nearly 10 months after the popular UA-area restaurant closed. Istanbul is expected to open in mid-August at 2945 E. Speedway, near North Country Club Road, serving a menu of kebabs, wraps, sandwiches and other Turkish and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, said chef-owner Kamran Esar. Esar said he will do extensive renovation to the 3,283-square-foot space, including painting inside and out and replacing several major kitchen appliances. Esars resume includes cooking at the original Opa Greek restaurant on Campbell Avenue that closed in spring 2018 and Opa Time at South Fourth Avenues American Eat Co. He said his siblings, parents and friends will be involved in his restaurant a first for the family. Carondelet hospitals in Tucson and Nogales are accepting donations of cereal to benefit the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. The drive runs through June 14. The effort is to help families have healthy breakfasts during the summer and is part of the Healthy Over Hungry campaign. The drive is particularly important to help feed children through the summer months who rely on breakfast at school. Donations of healthy cereals can be made at these Carondelet locations: St. Marys Hospital, 1601 St. Marys Road. St. Josephs Hospital, 350 N. Wilmot Road. Holy Cross Hospital, 1171 W. Target Range Road, Nogales. Donations will also be accepted at Carondelet Medical Group physician offices. Businesses are encouraged to donate cereal to the campaign. Financial donations can be made at donate. communityfoodbank.org/team/225255 PHOENIX Brushing aside the optics of the last-minute action, state lawmakers have voted to triple the daily allowance they now get. The approval Monday by the full House and Senate came after Rep. Noel Campbell, R-Prescott, urged colleagues to make the vote on the politically risky move bipartisan and unanimous. It will give cover to anybody who has questions about it, he said. If we do this in unison, 60 of us (in the House) vote, that is a message, a strong message to everybody out there, that youre not going to attack us and peel us off, one at a time and threaten us with retaliation because we voted to raise our per diem rate. But Campbell did not get his wish as legislators from both parties found reasons to oppose the move. Lawmakers who dont live in Maricopa County now get $60 a day for the first 120 days the Legislature is in session, counting weekends, a rate not raised since 1984. Under the terms of HB 2760, they would be entitled to the amount the U.S. General Services Administration allows federal employees who have to travel into Maricopa County: $129 a day for lodging and $56 for meals. The U.S. Supreme Court agreed Tuesday to decide whether Border Patrol agents can be sued by survivors if they shoot and kill someone on the other side of the border. The justices said they want to hear arguments about whether federal courts can wade in on cases where the death occurred outside the United States cases in which courts generally have no jurisdiction if there are allegations that a rogue federal law enforcement officer violated the victims rights and there is no other legal remedy available to the family. Officially, the case the justices will use to decide the issue involves a 2010 incident where Jesus Mesa Jr., a Border Patrol agent, shot and killed 15-year-old Sergio Andrian Hernandez Guereca. Mesa was on the United States side of the border in El Paso; Hernandez was on the other side of a culvert in Mexico. But whatever the justices rule also will determine whether Araceli Rodriguez can pursue her claim in federal court in Arizona following the 2012 shooting death of her son, Jose Antonio Elena Rodriguez. We all want to not wear masks, to visit family and friends, to go out for a meal. We all want our hospitals to have beds for citizens with inj Nawaz Sharif asked over purchase-illegal use of bulletproof govt vehicles A National Accountability Bureau (NAB) team on Monday questioned former prime minister Nawaz Sharif for more than two-and-a-half hours over the purchase and alleged illegal use of more than 30 bulletproof government vehicles, a private TV channel reported. Maryam Nawaz, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and Nawazs daughter, confirmed the investigation by the four-member NAB team at the Kot Lakhpat jail, where the former prime minister is being held since December 2018 after his conviction in the Al-Azizia corruption reference. The ongoing inquiry by the anti-graft watchdog pertains to alleged illegal use of 34 bulletproof cars that were purchased from Germany without duty for guests of the 19th SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) summit in 2016. According to NAB, Nawaz had subsequently added 20 of those 34 cars to his own motorcade and he, as well as his daughter, Maryam Nawaz, used the vehicles for their personal use as well. It further noted that the statement of Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, the former prime minister and a PML-N member, had already been recorded and that Fawad Hasan Fawad and the former foreign secretary had also been questioned in this regard. The NAB maintained that the officers associated with the foreign ministry also went beyond their authority with regard to the bulletproof cars. Local journalism is important and producing it costs time and money. To continue viewing content on tucson.com, please sign in with your existing account or subscribe. One of Vietnams leading dairy producers, together with two Swedish partners, put their joint venture, a milk factory in Sweden, into official operation on Monday. The Vietnam Nutrition Food Company (NutiFood) contributed 50 percent of the investment and Swedish Backahill Company and Skanemejerier Ekonomisk Forening a cooperative and one of Sweden's three largest producers of dairy products covered 25 percent each, in order to set up the venture pursuant to a memorandum of understanding (MoU) inked last September. The opening of the joint venture, NutiFood Sweden AB, took place at the Vietnam-Sweden Business Forum in Stockholm and was witnessed by Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, who is on an official visit to Sweden at the invitation of Prime Minister Stefan Lofven. NutiFood Sweden AB is intended to bring Vietnamese dairy and organic nutrition products closer to European and other international markets. In its first phase of nearly US$20 million in investment, NutiFood Sweden AB is expected to produce 15,000 metric tons per year, including 5,000 tons of baby formula and 10,000 tons of powdered milk for children. The milk factory will focus on producing fresh, sterilized organic milk and premium canned organic milk in its second phase. In addition, some new products from NutiFood Sweden AB are set for launch in Vietnams market in the third quarter of this year. Speaking at Mondays business forum, Vu Tien Loc, president of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), praised NutiFoods project in Sweden. The VCCI executive hoped that there will be more cooperation between the two countries enterprises, like this joint venture, in the future. Nutifood, founded in 2000 and based in Ho Chi Minh City, manufactures nutritional dairy food products. Backahill is a corporation owned by billionaire Eric Paulson specializing in ownership, management and development of real estate projects in Sweden. Skanemejerier Ekonomisk Forening is a Swedish cooperative and one of Sweden's three largest dairies including 350 producers, which provide more than 400,000 tons of milk annually. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A massive American cruise ship arrived at the southern coast of Vietnam on Monday, carrying over 5,700 people including crew and passengers. Spectrum of the Seas docked at Phu My Port in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province in the morning, with most aboard from the UK, Australia, the U.S., and China. The cruise ship, which belongs to cruise line brand Royal Caribbean Cruises and can carry up to 6,500 people at a time, was scheduled to stay in Ba Ria-Vung Tau for one day before leaving for Nha Trang, a resort city in south-central Vietnam. Considered one of the most modern liners now, Spectrum of the Seas is 347 meters long, 63 meters tall with 18 floors, and has a load capacity of around 170,000 metric tons. Mammoth cruise liner Spectrum of the Seas docks at Phu My Port in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, southern Vietnam. Photo: Tuoi Tre During the cruise, which lasts for nine days starting in Singapore and ending in Shanghai on June 3, the vessel will stop over in several touristic destinations of Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City-based travel agency Saigontourist, which welcomed the cruise passengers, said the visitors are going to explore many places in Ho Chi Minh City, Ba Ria City, and Vung Tau coastal city. In the middle of May 2019, a cruise ship owned by Genting Cruise Lines Company also docked at Tien Sa Port in central city Da Nang, carrying 3,300 visitors to the country. The company had to prepare over 70 buses just to welcome the great number of visitors because almost 70 percent of the visitors purchased travel tours to explore beautiful sights in Vietnam. Cruise passengers are seen in this photo beside a tour guide in a uniform at Phu My Port in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, southern Vietnam. Photo: Tuoi Tre Passengers of the cruise liner wave from a bus taking them on a day tour in Vietnam. Photo: Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and his Swedish counterpart Stefan Loefven discussed multiple measures to enhance their two nations relationship during their talks in Stockholm on Monday. Their meeting was held as part of PM Phucs official visit to Sweden from May 26 to 28. He previously paid a trip to Russia and Norway between May 20 and 25. During the conversation in Stockholm, the Vietnamese premier expressed his delight that the Sweden visit was conducted on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the two countries diplomatic ties. Vietnam always treasures its traditional friendship with Sweden and wants to further strengthen bilateral ties in diverse areas, Phuc stressed. Replying to his guest, PM Loefven expressed his belief that the visit will create a new driving force for bilateral cooperation, adding that the Swedish government considers Vietnam an important partner in the Southeast Asian region. Both sides agreed that the Vietnam-Sweden relationship has thrived in multiple areas over the past few years, thus tapping into each others strengths. The growing friendship was highlighted by the visit to Vietnam by Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree on May 6 to 8, they added. The two leaders reached consensus on facilitating all-level visits and effectively implementing bilateral cooperation mechanisms. PM Phuc asked the Swedish government to encourage firms to enhance investment in Vietnam in such fields as manufacturing, chemicals, electronics, information and communications, waste treatment, pharmaceuticals, and the support industry for automobiles. The two PMs promised to work closely together to step up the signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement in the coming time to bring benefits to both sides. On the occasion, the Swedish government leader presented a letter of intent on an investment credit worth over US$2 billion in Vietnam. Both sides also consented on the settlement of disputes by peaceful means in line with international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Following their talks, the two premiers attended the Vietnam-Sweden business forum in Stockholm on the same day. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Here are todays leading news stories: Politics -- Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc joined talks with his Swedish counterpart Stefan Loefven in Stockholm on Monday, as part of his official visit to Sweden from May 26 to 28. -- Vietnam and China have made progress in their defense cooperation, which deserves to be an important pillar in the two countries relationship, Minister of National Defense Ngo Xuan Lich and his Chinese counterpart Wei Fenghe agreed during their talks in Hanoi on Monday, within the framework of Minister Weis official visit to Vietnam from May 27 to 29. Society -- A heavy downpour occurred in Ho Chi Minh City on late Monday afternoon, submerging multiple streets and causing tremendous challenges to commuters during rush hour. -- An X-ray technician from the northern province of Son La, who was previously accused of drugging and raping a 13-year-old girl at a local hospital, was suspended from work on Monday as police officers are investigating the alleged sexual assault. -- A 35-year-old man was believed to have murdered his 32-year-old pregnant wife and four-year-old daughter before committing suicide as their bodies were discovered inside a tenanted house in the southern province of Binh Duong on Monday morning. -- Competent authorities in the southern province of Dong Nai have attributed adverse environmental changes to the recent mass fish death along La Nga River, after test results showed that the volume of organic pollutants was much higher than the normal levels. -- A total of 17 restaurants and diners in the central city of Da Nang were discovered to have been operating without a license along local beaches over the past years, the municipal Department of Construction reported on Monday. Business -- Vietnam hopes that Swedish businesses will further invest in the Southeast Asian nation and cooperate with local firms, PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc told the Vietnam-Sweden business forum in Stockholm on Monday. -- A representative from Royal Caribbean International, a cruise line from the United States, had a meeting with authorities in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau on Monday to discuss the proposed construction of an international cruise port, after one of the lines cruise ships carrying 6,500 passengers arrived in the Vietnamese locality on the same day. Sports -- Park Hang Seo, head coach of Vietnams national football team, on Monday announced a list of 23 players who will participate in Kings Cup 2019, an international four-team tournament organized by the Football Association of Thailand, in Buriram from June 5 to 8. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A Vietnamese court on Monday sentenced a man to six years behind bars for possessing military firearms and plotting a terrorist attack against the peoples government. Le Quoc Binh, 45, has held a grudge against the government since his land was acquired by the state for the construction of a new road in the south-central province of Binh Dinh, according to the indictment. Binh was discontented with the amount of compensation he received for the land acquisition, prosecutors said. In July 2016, Binh began using a Facebook account to share posts and write comments calling for an armed uprising against the government of Vietnam. The time has come, and theres no other way but with force and weapons, Binh was quoted in the indictment as writing in one of his posts. Le Quoc Binh speaks with his lawyer during a court in Binh Dinh Province, Vietnam on May 26, 2019. Photo: Duy Thanh / Tuoi Tre In June 2018, Binh travelled to Cambodia, where he bought a semiautomatic pistol for US$2,000 from a local dealer. In August the same year, he returned to the country to buy some ammo and a pistol cover for $1,800. This time, he was caught transporting the ammunition to his home in Binh Dinh by traffic police officers in neighboring Phu Yen Province. Police officers conducted a search of his residence on August 30, 2018 and found a range of other weapons including a Colt AR-15 rifle, ten airguns, ten laser sights, and hundreds of bullets and gun accessories. Le Quoc Binh stands trial at a court in Binh Dinh Province, Vietnam on May 26, 2019. Photo: Duy Thanh / Tuoi Tre At Mondays court, Binh admitted to buying the weapons and ammunition to plot attacks against police officers and Party and state leaders. I intended to use the guns to help the people, Binh told the court. It was just a thought that never got acted out to hurt anyone, he added. He was sentenced to six years in prison, including five years for illegal possession of military-grade firearms and one year for preparing to launch terrorism to oppose the peoples government. His family backgrounds and the fact that he was a first-time offender were considered by judges as mitigating factors. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! One of Vietnams major submarine cable systems vital to its international connectivity has encountered a problem off Da Nang as Internet users are told to brace for sluggish connection in the upcoming days. The Asia Pacific Gateway (APG) communications cable system suffered an issue at dusk on Sunday. The problem was detected around 130 kilometers off a landing point in the central city of Da Nang, slowing international connectivity for local users. Representatives of a major Internet service provider in Vietnam that operates on the APG told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that the cause of this issue has yet to been determined. As such, it is unclear when normal international Internet connection in Vietnam will be restored. In the meantime, Internet traffic from Vietnam would be rerouted to other cable systems such as the Asia-America Gateway (AAG), the South-East Asia - Middle East - Western Europe 3 (SMW-3) and the Intra Asia (IA). Launched in 2016, the APG connects mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore. The 10,400km-long submarine cable has a capacity of 54.8 Terabits per second and had been expected to put an end to regular disruptions to Internet connectivity in Vietnam. This is the fourth issue reported with the APG this year. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Australian Directors Guild (ADG) and Fremantle have signed an agreement covering all directors working on Neighbours. The agreement comes after some rumblings from the Guild and encompasses a revised tiered wage structure that now considers factors such as experience. It also ensures the potential for review. It is the first agreement of its type in Australia for directors and follows an agreement between the ADG with Disney late last year for the US show Reef Break and precedes a major agreement with Screen Producers Australia (SPA) for TV Drama. This is an historic moment for the ADG as it is the first industrial agreement for directors in Australian television, said Kingston Anderson CEO of the ADG. We have been negotiating with Fremantle for some time and, with new CEO Chris Oliver-Taylor at the helm, the company has worked with constructively with the ADG for the best outcome for both directors and this iconic show. The ADG hopes this will be the beginning of a series of agreements in the industry that will benefit both directors and producers of Australian television, Anderson continued. We hope that other production companies producing television dramas with engage with the ADG to ensure the best possible outcomes for all. This week the show received nominations for both Most Popular and Most Outstanding Drama at the Logie Awards. Two new Louis Theroux specials are coming to BBC Knowledge from next month. In The Night in Question, Louis examines the rise of sexual assault cases on American university campuses and in Mothers on the Edge he embeds himself in specialist psychiatric mother and baby units in the UK to examine postpartum mental illness. The Night in Question Thursday 27 June at 8.30pm on BBC Knowledge Louis heads to Americas East Coast to explore the rise of sexual assault cases on university campuses. He meets young men accused of rape and sexual assault who, while not guilty in a court of law, are being taken through specialist investigations by the universities and face expulsion if found responsible for the alleged assaults. Louis also talks to complainants who feel let down by the current legal system. They argue that these investigations are righting a long-standing wrong. And he hears how professionals are trying to establish new rules of consent among Americas younger generation. Mothers on the Edge Thursday 4 July at 8.30pm on BBC Knowledge Pregnancy and motherhood are often hailed as the happiest time in a womans life, but it can also be a time of extreme stress and psychiatric difficulty. Louis returns to the UK to spend time in three specialist psychiatric units, which treat mothers experiencing serious mental illness whilst allowing them to live alongside their babies. Immersing himself on the wards, he meets women who have been admitted with a range of serious conditions including depression, anxiety and psychosis often triggered by birth or the strains of motherhood. As he follows the patients and their families both in hospital and recovering back at home, Louis explores what lies behind their recent crisis and discovers the immense challenge in caring for two people in the most vulnerable state of their lives. Lifeline 13 11 14 Beyond Blue 1300 22 46 36 What do the Federal Election results hold for First Nations People? To mark the start of National Reconciliation Week, a special season of NITVs current affairs show The Point will investigate the current state of Indigenous affairs, calling everyone to be part to be a part of the conversation in the lead up to NAIDOC Week. Co-hosted by John Paul Janke and Rachael Hocking, The Point will investigate iconic moments in history where First Nations Australians have taken a stand, how the nation has responded and potential next steps to constitutionally enshrine a Voice to Parliament and Makarrata Commission. It will also examine what is already underway across the country and the potential impact to native title as well as the international experience of other Indigenous communities. NITV Channel Manager, Tanya Orman said: With the current political state of Indigenous affairs in Australia, NITV and The Point are in the pivotal position, as the home of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander storytelling, to drive conversation surrounding where to next. Over the coming weeks well be investigating the key themes of NAIDOC Week with a uniquely Indigenous lens, celebrating and championing our culture, heritage and aspirations. Well be hearing from a range of perspectives, from prominent names to up and coming voices, to share views on how we can move forward as a country. Leading Aboriginal voices and political thought shapers including Professor Megan Davis, Tom Calma, Noel Pearson, Chelsea Bond, Teela Reid and Tauto Sansbury will help to break down the 2019 NAIDOC Week theme: Voice. Treaty. Truth the three key elements set out in the 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart of the Nation, which represents the unified position of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. In NAIDOC week The Point brings together a group of young leaders from across the country in the senate chamber of Old Parliament House, Canberra to share their vision for the future. NITV will also broadcast a curated slate of programming to drive the conversation surrounding Voice, Treaty, Truth. Highlights include landmark documentaries, films and programs such as After the Apology, Jasper Jones, Mabo: Life of an Island Man, Wik vs Queensland, Occupation: Native, We Dont Need a Map, After Mabo, First Australians and Samson and Delilah. *NAIDOC Week runs between 7-14 July and is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples history, culture and achievements, as the oldest continuing culture on the planet. Wednesday at 8.30pm on NITV. Nawaz Sharif summoned in illegal allotment of Auqaf property Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif has been summoned on June 18 by the Supreme Court (SC) in a case pertaining to alleged illegal allotment of Auqaf property attached to the shrine of Hazrat Baba Fariduddin Masud Ganj Shakar in Pakpattan. In this regard, a notice has been issued by the court for fixing the hearing, according to which Nawaz has to appear in person or through a lawyer in the case. The notice further read that the relevant documents must be submitted by the due date, and no postponement shall be given in this regard. It is pertinent to mention here that during the previous hearing, the court had ordered all parties concerned to submit their response on a report of the joint investigation team (JIT) formed to probe the case. Veteran actor Uncle Jack Charles has been honoured with a Lifetime Achievement at the 12th National Indigenous Arts Awards at the Sydney Opera House last night. Uncle Jack, a Boon Wurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung Elder from Melbourne told NITV News, Practically hitting 76 I am acknowledged as the old man of the theatre as it were. Uncle Bob [Maza] would be really chuffed to see me in this position because he has won the Red Ochre of Lifetime Achievement Award so its a blessing. Im counted among some of the icons from the past and living to be included among that is a real hoot. Uncle Jack began performing at the New Theatre Melbourne in the early 1970s, co-founding the Melbourne-based Aboriginal theatre company, Nindethana, in 1972 with Uncle Bob [Maza0]. A member of the Stolen Generations, he spent many years of his early adult life homeless, fighting alcoholism and heroin addiction. Uncle Jacks screen credits include Cleverman, Rosehaven, Black Comedy, Rake, Wolf Creek, The Gods of Wheat Street, Woodley, We Can Be Heroes, Rush, Ben Hall, Mystery Road, Blackfellas, Pan, and Dimboola. Source: SBS Cookies op Tweakers Tweakers maakt gebruik van cookies Tweakers is onderdeel van DPG Media en maakt gebruik van cookies, JavaScript en vergelijkbare technologie om je onder andere een optimale gebruikerservaring te bieden. Functionele en analytische cookies die door Tweakers zelf geplaatst worden, worden gebruikt om de website goed te laten functioneren, bezoekersstatistieken bij te houden en a/b-testen uit te voeren. 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The Indian general election spread over a month is finally over. The result is something that the pollsters had forecast earlier, and Modi who in 2016 had announced demonetization and the BJP have romped home with a massive mandate. The election was significant as it marked the consolidation of the Hindutva ethos over India as the BJP. One of the path-breaking election contest was at Bhopal. This is a significant seat in Central India and has been held by the BJP since 1989. This time the Congress assuming they had their own government in power in MP, fielded Digvijay Singh from this seat. Digvijay Singh is anathema to the BJP which has been riled by his comments against "Hindu terror." In style, Yahoo has reported that the BJP this time decided to take on the "Hindu terror" narrative head-on and fielded Sadhvi Pragya Thakur as its candidate from Bhopal to confront Digvijay Singh. She had been accused of terror activities and is an accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast. Contest The contest turned out to be a one-sided affair, and Digvijay Singh wrote his own political obituary as he lost the election to the 49-year-old Sadhvi by over 350,000 votes. There has been some outcry from a few people about a controversial reference by Sadhvi about Nathuram Godse. She had referred to the assassinator of Mohan Das Gandhi as a "patriot". People assumed that this remark would cost Sadhvi Pragya her seat in the constituency. Shethe people Tv has reported that social media psephologists have massively misread the sensibilities of the general population who were not concerned about the remark of Sadhvi Pragya. To the surprise of many, the Sadhvi has been voted in with a massive mandate. Victory The victory proves that many in India feel Gandhi and the Congress party is responsible for many of the ills that afflict India today. The BJP is talking of a renaissance, and this has appealed to the core Hindu voter. It is worth pointing out that for 900 years of Muslim rule, the Hindus were second class citizens and paid the Jizzia tax to survive. It was only with the advent of the British Raj that this obnoxious tax was banned. The Raj restored Hindu pride, and thus the All India movement for freedom took shape. Bhopal has a high rate of literacy and also a sizeable Muslim population. But with the polarisation of votes on religious lines, Digvijay Singh's past statements caught up with him and he was defeated. In contrast, there was exuberance in the BJP camp with Sadhvi Pragya striking a chord with the Hindu voters. She has thus been voted to victory. Last word The BJP has bettered its 2014 record by over 20 seats and Modi has an unassailable majority. The Congress which came to be identified as a party that appeases minorities did its cause no good by soft-pedalling issues like a common civil code and Article 370 on Kashmir. Digvijay represented the past, which is now no longer passe while Sadhvi Pragya represented the future. True, a few were disturbed after her remark on Godse, but then it cannot be denied that Godse for many Hindus is a patriot, especially who have seen the horrors of partition in 1947. Dozens of refugees in Beirut were evicted on May 22 from the building they were living in under orders from the governor, sparking a flurry of comments online about the countrys treatment of foreigners. Evictions are common in Lebanon, but online users said that targeting the refugees, many of whom are Syrian, was racist and discriminatory. In a video of the displaced tenants that circulated widely on social media, the man filming called out the lack of respect toward the refugees. Look at what it is like for Syrians, do you see them? the man asks in the video. Those who want to come to Lebanon... We throw them out into the streets. A video of the evicted refugees in the Al-Msaytbeh neighbourhood in central Beirut. Some online users expressed disgust at the way the refugees were being treated, while others wrote that they should go home. "They should leave us alone... There are Lebanese people who really want a roof over their heads and a job, one Facebook user commented. "A sad scene that makes your heart go cold, another Facebook user commented. Its easier when the residents are refugeesWadi al-Asmar, president of the Lebanese Centre for Human Rights, said the evicted group was living legally in the country.> More than 100 people were living in this four-story building, most of them Syrian but also some immigrant workers from Bangladesh. All of them had papers. Some had work permits while others had documents from the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. These people were likely living on top of one another in extremely crowded conditions. Beirut governor Ziad Chbib, who ordered the eviction, said in his decision that the residential building had been transformed into individual units rented to non-Lebanese nationals and that it did not meet health and safety requirements. He also added that the building was the site of immoral behaviour. Beirut governor Ziad Chibbs May 22 official decision to evict the refugees."It may not be xenophobic, but it is definitely inhumane"Al-Asmar said evictions with little notice were common in Lebanon and that refugees were particularly vulnerable.> It is easier to carry out eviction decisions like this one when the people targeted are marginalised members of society, like these refugees. The governor stated in his decision that the people affected were non-Lebanese, as if that justified the eviction in some way. These tenants had paid their rent for May. The evictions could have been delayed by a week, allowing them to finish out the month and find other accommodation. But instead, they were barely given enough time to gather their belongings before being put out on the streets. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees told France 24 some of the more vulnerable tenants, including families with children, were offered alternative accommodations. Xenophobic comments Al-Asmar said he was disappointed by the reactions on social media.> The incident sparked many racist and xenophobic comments, especially towards Syrians, who were told to go back to their own country. And while there is no proof that the governor was motivated by racism or xenophobia, his decision was still inhumane.There are around 1.5 million Syrian refugees living in Lebanon, according to the United Nations. Their presence in the country has been a source of tension for top officials. In March, the minister for foreign affairs said that the hardline immigration policy adopted in eastern Europe was a model to follow. Dozens of refugees in Beirut were evicted on May 22 from the building they were living in under orders from the governor, sparking a flurry of comments online about the countrys treatment of foreigners. Evictions are common in Lebanon, but online users said that targeting the refugees, many of whom are Syrian, was racist and discriminatory. In a video of the displaced tenants that circulated widely on social media, the man filming called out the lack of respect toward the refugees. Look at what it is like for Syrians, do you see them? the man asks in the video. Those who want to come to Lebanon... We throw them out into the streets. A video of the evicted refugees in the Al-Msaytbeh neighbourhood in central Beirut. Some online users expressed disgust at the way the refugees were being treated, while others wrote that they should go home. "They should leave us alone... There are Lebanese people who really want a roof over their heads and a job, one Facebook user commented. "A sad scene that makes your heart go cold, another Facebook user commented. Its easier when the residents are refugees Wadi al-Asmar, president of the Lebanese Centre for Human Rights, said the evicted group was living legally in the country. More than 100 people were living in this four-story building, most of them Syrian but also some immigrant workers from Bangladesh. All of them had papers. Some had work permits while others had documents from the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. These people were likely living on top of one another in extremely crowded conditions. Beirut governor Ziad Chbib, who ordered the eviction, said in his decision that the residential building had been transformed into individual units rented to non-Lebanese nationals and that it did not meet health and safety requirements. He also added that the building was the site of immoral behaviour. Beirut governor Ziad Chibbs May 22 official decision to evict the refugees. Story continues "It may not be xenophobic, but it is definitely inhumane" Al-Asmar said evictions with little notice were common in Lebanon and that refugees were particularly vulnerable. It is easier to carry out eviction decisions like this one when the people targeted are marginalised members of society, like these refugees. The governor stated in his decision that the people affected were non-Lebanese, as if that justified the eviction in some way. These tenants had paid their rent for May. The evictions could have been delayed by a week, allowing them to finish out the month and find other accommodation. But instead, they were barely given enough time to gather their belongings before being put out on the streets. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees told France 24 some of the more vulnerable tenants, including families with children, were offered alternative accommodations. Xenophobic comments Al-Asmar said he was disappointed by the reactions on social media. The incident sparked many racist and xenophobic comments, especially towards Syrians, who were told to go back to their own country. And while there is no proof that the governor was motivated by racism or xenophobia, his decision was still inhumane. There are around 1.5 million Syrian refugees living in Lebanon, according to the United Nations. Their presence in the country has been a source of tension for top officials. In March, the minister for foreign affairs said that the hardline immigration policy adopted in eastern Europe was a model to follow. PARIS/BAGHDAD (Reuters) - France opposes the death penalty in principle but accepts Iraqi sovereignty, its foreign ministry said on Monday, as a fourth French citizen was sentenced to death in Iraq for being part of the Islamic State militant group. Iraqi court officials said the man had been sentenced on Monday to death by hanging, a day after three other Frenchmen were given death sentences for Islamic State membership. They can appeal against their convictions. The French foreign ministry said in a statement that it respected the sovereignty of the Iraqi authorities and that Islamic State members "had to answer for their crimes" but stated France's opposition to the death penalty. "The French embassy in Iraq, in its role as provider of consular protection, is taking the necessary steps to convey its position to the Iraq authorities," the statement added. The four convicted men were handed to Iraqi authorities in February by the U.S-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), part of a group of 280 Iraqi and foreign detainees that military sources said at the time included 14 French citizens. Five more Frenchmen are expected to go on trial in early June to face charges of being members of Islamic State, two court officials said. Iraq is conducting trials of thousands of suspected Islamic State fighters, including hundreds of foreigners, with many arrested as the group's strongholds crumbled throughout Iraq. In 2014 the group declared an ultra-radical Sunni Islamist "caliphate" spanning parts of Iraq and Syria and established a rule known for mass killings, sexual enslavement and punishments like crucifixion. The French government has so far categorically refused to take back Islamic State fighters and their wives, although a handful of children have been repatriated. Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian has referred to them as "enemies" of the nation, saying they should face justice either in Syria or Iraq. Human rights groups have accused Iraqi authorities of inconsistencies in the judicial process and flawed trials, leading to unfair convictions. (Reporting by Sudip Kar-Gupta in Paris and Ahmed Rasheed in Baghdad; Editing by Luke Baker and Catherine Evans) The German government has called on people to wear the Jewish kippa ahead of an anti-Israel protest as a demonstration of solidarity and as Jews face a spike in anti-Semitism, withdrawing an earlier warning against wearing the traditional skullcap. At the weekend, Felix Klein, the country's commissioner on anti-Semitism sparked uproar when he said in an interview with the Funke regional press group that he could not "advise Jews to wear the kippa everywhere all the time in Germany."Israeli President Reuven Rivlin voiced shock at Klein's warning and said it was a "capitulation to anti-Semitism" and evidence that Jews are unsafe in Germany.Late Monday, Klein reversed course after Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman intervened."The state must see to it that the free exercise of religion is possible for all... and that anyone can go anywhere in our country in full security wearing a kippa," Steffen Seibert told a press conference.In his latest statement to Funke, Klein said: "I call on all citizens of Berlin and across Germany to wear the kippa next Saturday if there are new, intolerable attacks targeting Israel and Jews on the occasion of al-Quds day in Berlin."Al-Quds is an annual event against Israeli control of Jerusalem and will take place on Saturday.Klein also addressed his earlier statements, saying that he "could no longer recommend that Jews wear the kippa everywhere in Germany should be taken as an alarm signal."Earlier Monday, German daily Bild published a cut-out-and-use kippa in a bid to fight rising anti-Semitism.Bild, Germany's top-selling daily newspaper, called on readers to "stand in solidarity with (their) Jewish neighbours" by making "their own kippa", bearing the star of David, to "raise the flag against anti-Semitism".Germany, like other Western countries, has watched with alarm as anti-Semitic and other racist hate speech and violence have increased in recent years while the political climate has coarsened and grown more polarised.Anti-Semitic crimes rose by 20 percent in Germany last year, according to interior ministry data which blamed nine out of 10 cases on the extreme right.The arrival in parliament of the far-right AfD party, whose leaders openly question Germany's culture of atonement for World War II atrocities, has also contributed to the change in atmosphere.Merkel has also deplored "another form of anti-Semitism" stemming from a major asylum-seeker influx, with many coming from Muslim countries like Syria, Afghanistan or Iraq.The Central Council of Jews in Germany has already issued several warnings about wearing the kippa in public.In one prominent case last year, a 19-year-old Syrian man was convicted for assault after lashing out with his belt at an Israeli man wearing a Jewish skullcap while shouting "yahudi", Jew in Arabic.(AFP) The German government has called on people to wear the Jewish kippa ahead of an anti-Israel protest as a demonstration of solidarity and as Jews face a spike in anti-Semitism, withdrawing an earlier warning against wearing the traditional skullcap. At the weekend, Felix Klein, the country's commissioner on anti-Semitism sparked uproar when he said in an interview with the Funke regional press group that he could not "advise Jews to wear the kippa everywhere all the time in Germany." Israeli President Reuven Rivlin voiced shock at Klein's warning and said it was a "capitulation to anti-Semitism" and evidence that Jews are unsafe in Germany. Late Monday, Klein reversed course after Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman intervened. "The state must see to it that the free exercise of religion is possible for all... and that anyone can go anywhere in our country in full security wearing a kippa," Steffen Seibert told a press conference. In his latest statement to Funke, Klein said: "I call on all citizens of Berlin and across Germany to wear the kippa next Saturday if there are new, intolerable attacks targeting Israel and Jews on the occasion of al-Quds day in Berlin." Al-Quds is an annual event against Israeli control of Jerusalem and will take place on Saturday. Klein also addressed his earlier statements, saying that he "could no longer recommend that Jews wear the kippa everywhere in Germany should be taken as an alarm signal." Earlier Monday, German daily Bild published a cut-out-and-use kippa in a bid to fight rising anti-Semitism. Bild, Germany's top-selling daily newspaper, called on readers to "stand in solidarity with (their) Jewish neighbours" by making "their own kippa", bearing the star of David, to "raise the flag against anti-Semitism". Germany, like other Western countries, has watched with alarm as anti-Semitic and other racist hate speech and violence have increased in recent years while the political climate has coarsened and grown more polarised. Story continues Anti-Semitic crimes rose by 20 percent in Germany last year, according to interior ministry data which blamed nine out of 10 cases on the extreme right. The arrival in parliament of the far-right AfD party, whose leaders openly question Germany's culture of atonement for World War II atrocities, has also contributed to the change in atmosphere. Merkel has also deplored "another form of anti-Semitism" stemming from a major asylum-seeker influx, with many coming from Muslim countries like Syria, Afghanistan or Iraq. The Central Council of Jews in Germany has already issued several warnings about wearing the kippa in public. In one prominent case last year, a 19-year-old Syrian man was convicted for assault after lashing out with his belt at an Israeli man wearing a Jewish skullcap while shouting "yahudi", Jew in Arabic. (AFP) Pakistan let Sushma Swaraj flight go over its airspace Pakistan had accepted Indias request to let Minister for External Affairs Sushma Swarajs flight go over its airspace, according to The Hindu news. The publication cited officials in Delhi and Islamabad as saying that Sushma Swarajs flight was permitted to go over Pakistani airspace as the Indian minister was due to attend Shanghai Cooperation Organisation session in Bishkek. Foreign Ministry Spokesman Dr Mohammad Faisal said that the Indian government had made the request to avoid longer route. Sushma Swaraj attended the SCO meeting of foreign ministers in Krgyzstan on May 21 and 22, along with Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi. On the sidelines of the SCO meeting, Qureshi also had an informal meeting with his Indian counterpart Swaraj. Speaking after the informal meeting, Qureshi said he cleared it to Swaraj that Pakistan wanted resolution of all issues [with India] through consultation. Syria said Israel carried out a missile attack that caused casualties on Monday, in what Israel's army said was a retaliatory strike. "An Israeli missile targeted Tel al-Shaar in Quneitra," the Syrian news agency said, adding a "military vehicle was targeted and there are wounded".The Israeli military confirmed it carried out an air strike in Syria in retaliation for what it said was anti-aircraft fire targeting one of its fighter jets.The Syrian province of Quneitra includes the Golan Heights, most of which is occupied and annexed by Israel."Earlier today, Syrian anti-aircraft systems fired at an IDF fighter jet during a routine flight in northern Israel," the Israel Defense Forces said in a statement.It said the projectile missed and the plane completed its journey before "the IDF targeted the launcher that had fired" at the jet.The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said the Israeli missile was "reportedly fired from the occupied part of the Golan".Its director, Rami Abdel Rahman, told AFP that three Syrian soldiers were wounded.Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes in Syria, most of them against what it says are Iranian and Hezbollah targets.Hezbollah is a Lebanese Shiite group that supports Syria's President Bashar al-Assad, who is also backed by Tehran.The Israeli strike comes amid soaring tensions in the region between Israel's arch-foe Iran and the United States.The stand-off has been simmering since the United States last year withdrew from the 2015 nuclear treaty which Iran reached with major world powers.In recent days the US accused Iran of alleged threats and last week deployed an aircraft carrier group and B-52 bombers to the Gulf.(AFP) Syria said Israel carried out a missile attack that caused casualties on Monday, in what Israel's army said was a retaliatory strike. "An Israeli missile targeted Tel al-Shaar in Quneitra," the Syrian news agency said, adding a "military vehicle was targeted and there are wounded". The Israeli military confirmed it carried out an air strike in Syria in retaliation for what it said was anti-aircraft fire targeting one of its fighter jets. The Syrian province of Quneitra includes the Golan Heights, most of which is occupied and annexed by Israel. "Earlier today, Syrian anti-aircraft systems fired at an IDF fighter jet during a routine flight in northern Israel," the Israel Defense Forces said in a statement. It said the projectile missed and the plane completed its journey before "the IDF targeted the launcher that had fired" at the jet. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said the Israeli missile was "reportedly fired from the occupied part of the Golan". Its director, Rami Abdel Rahman, told AFP that three Syrian soldiers were wounded. Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes in Syria, most of them against what it says are Iranian and Hezbollah targets. Hezbollah is a Lebanese Shiite group that supports Syria's President Bashar al-Assad, who is also backed by Tehran. The Israeli strike comes amid soaring tensions in the region between Israel's arch-foe Iran and the United States. The stand-off has been simmering since the United States last year withdrew from the 2015 nuclear treaty which Iran reached with major world powers. In recent days the US accused Iran of alleged threats and last week deployed an aircraft carrier group and B-52 bombers to the Gulf. (AFP) Around 450 French nationals linked to the Islamic State (IS) are being held by Kurds or detained in refugee camps in northeastern Syria, the French foreign minister said Tuesday. "In the northeastern zone of Syria, we think that there are between 400 and 450 French people, some in camps, others held as prisoners, including children," Jean-Yves Le Drian told parliament's foreign affairs committee.He said only the children could be repatriated if they were orphans or if their mothers gave permission.France has long insisted that its adult citizens captured in Iraq or Syria must face trial locally, refusing to repatriate them despite the risk they could receive death sentences."Our position is still the same and we will not shift: fighters must be judged where they have committed crimes," Le Drain said.A Baghdad court sentenced two more Frenchmen to death Tuesday for joining the Islamic State jihadist group, raising the number of French IS members on death row in Iraq to six.Since March, Paris has repatriated just five orphans and a three-year-old girl whose mother was sentenced to life in prison in Iraq.Le Drian said that more than 100 French fighters were still present in Idlib, the last jihadist stronghold in Syria's northwest which is being relentlessly bombed by President Bashar al-Assad's troops.He said the area was a "real time bomb" with about "30,000" rebel and jihadist fighters holed up there and evoked the threat of an influx of refugees from this region to Europe.(AFP) Around 450 French nationals linked to the Islamic State (IS) are being held by Kurds or detained in refugee camps in northeastern Syria, the French foreign minister said Tuesday. "In the northeastern zone of Syria, we think that there are between 400 and 450 French people, some in camps, others held as prisoners, including children," Jean-Yves Le Drian told parliament's foreign affairs committee. He said only the children could be repatriated if they were orphans or if their mothers gave permission. France has long insisted that its adult citizens captured in Iraq or Syria must face trial locally, refusing to repatriate them despite the risk they could receive death sentences. "Our position is still the same and we will not shift: fighters must be judged where they have committed crimes," Le Drain said. A Baghdad court sentenced two more Frenchmen to death Tuesday for joining the Islamic State jihadist group, raising the number of French IS members on death row in Iraq to six. Since March, Paris has repatriated just five orphans and a three-year-old girl whose mother was sentenced to life in prison in Iraq. Le Drian said that more than 100 French fighters were still present in Idlib, the last jihadist stronghold in Syria's northwest which is being relentlessly bombed by President Bashar al-Assad's troops. He said the area was a "real time bomb" with about "30,000" rebel and jihadist fighters holed up there and evoked the threat of an influx of refugees from this region to Europe. (AFP) Sierra Leone has made strides in improving child welfare over the past 20 years, showing the greatest improvement worldwide, says the NGO Save the Children. While child mortality among under-fives in the West African country has nearly been halved, it still affects one in 10 children, according to the groups latest global report, Changing Lives in Our Lifetime. After implementing the Free Health Care Initiative countrywide in 2010, Sierra Leone improved the quality of life for children under five, including providing better care for malaria, diarrhea and pneumonia - frequent child killers - says Ramatu Jalloh, the advocacy director for Save the Children in Freetown. She says that President Julius Mada Bio's administration, elected in March 2018, is working to improve on these positives. The new government recognizes that even though much progress has been made, much more needs to be done to strengthen the health system, Jalloh told RFI. We realize that those hard to reach communities need action or intervention in a timely manner, she says. The government has boosted its community health worker policy and are training those in remote areas to recognize health issues and to react to them. She says that one of the problems is that mothers do not realise there is a problem with their child to address it, adding that Sierra Leonean culture also comes into play. I know that the behaviors and traditional beliefs around certain illnesses likely impacts on the timely services we are able to deliver to the vulnerable children, says Jalloh. This is something weve been working on and I know the government has been working on this to strengthen and move forward, she adds. According to the Save the Children statistics compiled on 176 countries regarding child welfare, Sierra Leone had a 246-point increase from the year 2000 to 2018 -- the most worldwide. The country gained points in lowering child marriage, reducing under-five child deaths to 53 percent, and reducing child labor, children with stunted growth, teen births, and child homicide. Story continues The international organization has been working with other non-governmental organisations within the country, including local NGOs, in order to improve nutrition for children. Scaling Up Nutrition is a civil society platform led by Save The Children UK but under the office of the Sierra Leonean vice presidency in order to coordinate government, civil society and others in dealing with nutrition. After conducting research throughout the country, says Jalloh, they found anemia was one of the big factors affecting mothers and children. The Secretariat used this information to promote diversifying foods for mothers and children as well as food security. Pregnant students still banned by government In Sierra Leone, student pregnancy is an ongoing issue, says Jalloh, even though it has decreased by 30 percent over the past 20 years, according to the report. Its one of those issues that people have various opinions about, but what I think has been made very clear, in regard to government intervention in this area, is that all children, regardless of their situation, regardless of where they are, should access education, says Jalloh. Under the previous government administration, pregnant girls were banned from the classroom in 2015 after numbers rose during the Ebola outbreak due to rape and abuse. However, the new Mada Bio administration has reinforced the stigma of preventing pregnant girls from getting an education. Jalloh calls the issue with the government a work in progress. One of the key things that were advocating more and we know that government is in favor of now is comprehensive sexuality education, says Jalloh. We believe that if young people are given the right information, the correct information, theyll be better to make informed choices. And hopefully that will also reduce the rates of teen pregnancy, she adds. Save the Children is working with traditional leaders who are the paramount chiefs, as well as religious leaders to explain the impact of teen pregnancy and child marriage not only on the girl, but on the community as a whole. The idea is to find a way in which to build champions from these groups, so that theyre the ones who are leading the conversation at a community level, because theyre the ones who are trusted, who the communities listen to, says Jalloh, adding that this project has had success in Pujehun, the most southern district in Sierra Leone. How Sub-Saharan Africa fares, overall Sub-Saharan African countries such as Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Niger, Rwanda and Zambia have also improved significantly over the past 20 years. South Sudan, Rwanda and Ethiopia have reduced the number of children giving birth. But there have been some setbacks, as well. Reducing child marriage in sub-Saharan Africa has had uneven success, as countries including Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Madagascar, Mali and Mozambique have seen a significant rise in child marriage over the past 20 years. The bottom 20 countries, with the exception of Afghanistan, are all in Sub-Saharan Africa. And while the countries with the highest under-five mortality are from fragile states, including Central African Republic, Chad, Mali, Somalia and Sierra Leone, Sierra Leone is poised to reach its target for child survival by 2050. Independents 4 Change candidate Mick Wallace has leap-frogged Fianna Fails Billy Kelleher into second place in Ireland South. But after a third mammoth day of counting it is still not clear who will claim the second seat in the constituency. Fine Gaels Sean Kelly was elected in the five-seater constituency on Tuesday afternoon after topping the poll with 119,883 votes. I am so grateful to all of my supporters over the last decade, my family, my team, @FineGael, everyone who came out on the campaign trail to help. Thank you for re-electing me to the @Europarl_EN you knew you could #CountOnKelly! Go raibh maith agaibh, ar aghaidh leis on obair! pic.twitter.com/MQuNqWDGK8 Sean Kelly MEP (@SeanKellyMEP) May 28, 2019 The former GAA president hailed the win as probably the greatest moment in my political career to be returned top of the poll by so many people. Counting at the Nemo Rangers count centre in Co Cork continued late into the evening on Tuesday without any further declarations. It is expected to be Wednesday afternoon before another candidate reaches the quota. Speaking after he was elected on the ninth count Mr Kelly said he was ecstatic. Its something that I never expected, I couldnt expect to be that high especially with three candidates from Fine Gael and Im most grateful to everybody involved. I want to return to Brussels and really work hard for Ireland over the next five years, he said. Mr Kelly added that he would deliver for voters and make sure Irelands voice is heard in the European parliament. Story continues Ill do like I did for the last five yearsI will deliverThe European Parliament is about compromise, Im good at that. Asked whether there were MEPs milking the system, he said: There are obviously those who work, there are obviously those who dont. Im thinking particularly of the far right, the extremists like Nigel Farage and those, they arent renowned for workingbut those of us who believe in the European Union, who want the EU to be strong and above all for Ireland to play a strong part into the future were going to work our butts off. The Kerry native, who was first elected as an MEP in 2009, topped the poll in the first count with 118,444 first preference votes, but he failed to reach the quota of 119,866. It was the ninth count before he surpassed the quota by 17 votes to take the seat. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar tweeted his congratulations to Mr Kelly on becoming the first over the line in the 12-county constituency. Congratulations to @SeanKellyMEP, first over the line in Ireland South #ep2019 Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) May 28, 2019 Wexford TD Mick Wallace overtook Cork North Central TD Fianna Fails Billy Kelleher to take the second place after the 12th count on Tuesday evening. Outgoing Sinn Fein MEP Liadh Ni Riada is on course to take fourth place, while the Greens Grace OSullivan continues to perform well coming in in fifth place. Counting began on Sunday with 23 candidates on the two-foot long ballot paper. Senator Paudie Coffey (right) talks with Fine Gael MEP Sean Kelly (Michelle Devane/PA) The sheer size and volume of the ballot papers have delayed progress at the count centre, some 200 staff are grappling with 750,000 ballot papers, weighing 7.5 tonnes. It is a worrying time for the Green party senator Ms OSullivan, incumbent Fine Gael MEP Ms Clune and sitting Sinn Fein MEP Ms Ni Riada. The three women are likely going to battle it out for the fourth and fifth seats in the constituency. Fianna Fails second candidate Mr Byrne and Fine Gaels third candidate in the running, junior minister Andrew Doyle, will be hoping transfers will see them overtake other candidates to claim a seat. Ireland South, which has an electorate of 1.4 million, had a total poll of 755,000 votes. The latest indications are it may take until Thursday afternoon before all five seats are allocated. Francois Billard Wins the 2019 partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North America Main Event (CA$961,400) May 28 2019 Adam Lamers It was a long and grueling final day to the 2019 partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North America CA$10,300 Main Event but a winner has finally been crowned. It took over 14 hours from start to finish but Francois Billard outlasted a 521-entry field to claim the title and the first-place prize of CA$961,400. After making a three-way deal with Kevin Rabichow and Joni Jouhkimainen, Billard eliminated both of his final opponents for his first major title in his hometown at Playground Poker Club. Billard carried a massive lead into heads-up play but Rabichow hung tough on the short stack and nearly brought it back to even. However, just as Rabichow got a sniff of the lead, Billard was able to close things out. Billard quickly took over a massive chip lead at the beginning of the day and he was clearly the most aggressive player since having the majority of the chips. "Maybe I pushed the action a little too much at times so I don't know if it was the right strategy but it worked out in the end." In the last hand of the night, Billard turned two pair against Rabichow's pair and open-ended straight draw. All of the chips got in the middle on the turn and Rabichow bricked the river. The noise in the room was the loudest all night as the French-Canadian supporters broke out in cheers. "I'm a little bit exhausted but excited as well. All my friends are here so I'm excited to go have a small drink at wherever is open right now." It will be Billard's largest career cash to date as he closes in on the $3 million lifetime mark. When asked if he has any plans with the money, Billard was hoping for a little vacation. "A beach house maybe, I don't know. Where are we going?!" he shouted to his rail. partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North American Main Event Final Table Results Place Player Country Prize (CAD) Prize(USD) 1st Francois Billard Canada $961,400* $715,414* 2nd Kevin Rabichow United States $578,990* $430,848* 3rd Joni Jouhkimainen Finland $583,310* $434,063* 4th Alexandros Kolonias Greece $370,000 $275,331 5th Paul Fontan Spain $300,000 $223,241 6th Danick Landriault Canada $250,000 $186,035 7th Ben Heath United Kingdom $200,000 $148,828 8th Ruben Perceval Canada $150,000 $111,621 9th Armin Rezaei Austria $100,000 $74,414 *Reflects three-way deal at the final table. Final Day Action Only six players returned to the felt for the final day of competition but with so many blinds in play and 90-minute levels, it was a bound to be a war of nutrition. Danick Landriault began the day as the short stack and he was looking for a spot to quickly double up. Unfortunately for him, he flopped middle pair against Rabichow's top pair and all of the chips got in the middle on the turn. Landriault wasn't able to improve and he exited in sixth place. The final five players battled for over six hours with Billard holding a comfortable chip lead throughout. The other four took turns on the short stack but each managed to find key double ups time and time again. It was a Rabichow double up that left Paul Fontan with just a few big blinds and he eventually bowed out in fifth place. Alexandros Kolonias used his passive play style to ladder up through a couple of eliminations. Eventually, the blinds caught up to him and Kolonias called off a river bet from Rabichow. Kolonias had two pair, tens and nines, but Rabichow rivered queens and tens to bring the final table down to three players. After taking a 40-minute dinner break, the three players returned to discuss a deal. After about 30 minutes of working out the numbers, they finally agreed to ICM chop after leaving CA$212,370 to play for. Billard was the current chip leader and he earned himself CA$749,030. Jouhkimainen locked up CA$583,310 while Rabichow pocketed CA$578,990. Final three players. While most of the prize pool had already been divided up, the three-handed play still continued for over two hours. Billard continued to build up a stack while the Finnish partypoker pro saw his stack dwindle. Jouhkimainen eventually picked up two suited cards he decided to go with from the small blind but Billard woke up with a big ace in the big blind. Despite picking up plenty of outs on the turn, Jouhkimainen bricked off and was forced to settle for third place. That left Billard and Rabichow to play heads-up for over CA$210,000 with Billard holding a healthy chip lead. He was able to wrap things up in about an hour as he hoisted the MILLIONS LIVE trophy high in the air. That wraps up all of the coverage for the 2019 partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North America in Montreal, Canada. The PokerNews live reporting team will now be heading to Las Vegas for the 2019 World Series of Poker and you can follow all of the coverage right here. Bespoke Shoes, Made In Italy Earlier this year, I was contacted by Nicole and Sam of Viajiyu* shoes. They were in Los Angeles, and asked if Id like to meet to take a look at their bespoke shoes, made in Italy. (That was an easy yes!) They brought along several samples of their beautiful flats and wedges, and dozens of swatches of the various leathers and linings available. I tried on a few styles and was really impressed with the comfort and quality. When they asked if they could make me a pair (as a gift), another easy yes! The hard part was choosing the style, leather and lining. Ultimately, I decided on timeless and went with the Como Flat, a pointed-toe skimmer in black leather with a soft shimmer. And just for fun, that yellow lining. The styles I tried on seemed to run true to my usual size 7. I received my shoes a couple of weeks ago, and they are just as comfortable as the samples. The leather is soft but substantial, and they feel like they mold to my feet. Ive worn them all day, running errands, walking dogs, etc. The insole is cushioned, though a little less than what Id need for travel. I love this classic look, especially to add some refinement to my casual outfits. The Viajiyu boutique is in Florence, Italy, so if youll be visiting, what could be a better souvenir than a pair of bespoke shoes? But they also take online orders, and will be traveling throughout the U.S. this summer with sample sizes and swatches. See the schedule and RSVP here. *The name combines the Italian word via for road, and Japanese word jiyu for freedom. Savings On Skincare Favorites Todays the last day to take advantage of the Maximum Effect/Minimum Effort Memorial Day Sale at Makeover Workshop. Brian has put together a few Beauty Box specials featuring some of my favorite products. Above, a Beauty Box featuring three that I use daily: Illuminate & Contour Eye Treatment, Re-Creation Lip Treatment, and Firming Neck and Throat Creme. I dont buy into a lot of beauty hype, but these really do deliver noticeable results! You can also save 20% on individual items featured in the Maximum Effect/Minimum Effort videos with code MAX. That includes my favorite Makeover Workshop lipsticks! Todays the last day of this offer, so dont delay if theres anything youve had your eye on. Just Finished Watching Dead To Me on Netflix. I dont do horror, so dont worry, its not one of those. A woman searching for the hit-and-run driver who killed her husband is befriended by another woman withsecrets. Though some of the story turns are predictable, others are not. The characters are flawed and complex, and both Applegate and Cardellini deliver outstanding performances. But its not all heaviness; its bitingly funny too. If you were to design your own pair of bespoke shoes, what would you choose? The Florida Legislature passed, and governor Ron DeSantis has signed SB 160 Prohibited Acts in Connection with Obscene or Lewd Materials. The bill was sponsored by Sen. Lauren Book, D-Plantation and filed in 2018, which was killed by the Senate Criminal Justice Committee at that time. It was re-introduced again in March 2019, this time around it was accepted by the Criminal Justice Committee and pushed forward. The bills final vote in the House was 113 yeas and 0 nays; the Senate passed it with 40 yeas and 0 nays. The issue has become a nationally and internationally discussion since studies and research have concluded that the use of pornography pictures and items like child sex dolls, raises the risk factor higher-risk offenders. Non-supporters of the bill insist that child-like sex dolls should be looked at as a sex toy and the research does not prove anything. The law now stands SB 160 prohibits a person from knowingly having in his or her possession, custody, or control an obscene, child-like sex doll. The bill states that first-time violators will be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor, repeat offenders will be charged with a second-degree felony. According to Fox News Network, Sen. Book stated that these anatomically correct, lifelike child dolls need to be taboo in the state of Florida. While supporters of the bill agree that a sex doll is a form of child pornography. The law will start being enforced on October 1, 2019. Other states and countries place bans On May 10, 2019, Tennessee governor Bill Lee signed SB 0659 sponsored by Senator Janice Bowling, that ban the possession, sale, distribution, and transport of child-like sex dolls. Kentucky is still working on their SB 102 that would ban child sex dolls, with the hope it will soon be heading to the Governors desk for signing. Discuss this news on Eunomia Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada have all banned child-like sex dolls based on their laws. The United States has yet to even look at this type of ban for fear of Constitutional First Amendment scrutiny. No real study or research A psychotherapist can argue the worthiness of child-like sex dolls as helpful or a compassionate act to those who wish to exploit real children, but they offer no proof. What has been proven is the fact that over 60,000 children are reported to have been sexually abused every year, whether it is by brutal rapes, frightening verbal talk or 'creepy,' groping touches. Sexual abuse of children is happening every day by family members, foster care programs, public and private schools, sports, youth-oriented programs and organizations, churches, and the list go on and on. And yet no congressional committee is formed, no law enforcement agencies, no federal judges have focused any extensive investigations of what is happening to children and the physical and psychological wounds they have to endure every day. The Tornado struck the city of Trotwood, just outside Dayton. It happened at around midnight Monday before it moved through the state. It is a large and dangerous tornado and left behind a trail of destruction accompanied by widespread damage and injuries. The National Weather Service issued warning to residents cautioning them to remain in the safety of their homes because it passed through heavily populated areas. The path of the tornado crossed over Interstate 75 and cleanup crews had to remove the debris from the roads to ensure traffic flow was not disturbed. Daily Mail UK reports there was debris strewn all over the place, some were lifted high up in the air due to the force of the climatic disturbance. Videos have surfaced showing the extent of damages with trees uprooted and power lines down. Authorities deputed their reps to go around and check for people trapped in their homes because police scanners indicated injuries to people. They needed attention on priority. #dayton OH tornado damage. Wagner Ford and interstate 75. Roofs missing, chimneys in road. Houses destroyed. @whiotv pic.twitter.com/HG2OeyPwim Mike Johnson (@CyberMikeJ) May 28, 2019 Tornado leaves the area in tatters The damages included the steeple of a church that snapped off and landed in the car park. There were people in the church at the time. They had taken shelter there and included children. Many houses in the neighborhood suffered heavy damages. Thousands of homes did not have power and the authorities had a tough time to clear the debris from the roads in the middle of the night. There were many damaged vehicles along the road and the darkness coupled with lack of power aggravated their problems. Discuss this news on Eunomia BREAKING: Video shows damage in Dayton, Ohio after a historic tornado hit the metro area - a second tornado is expected to hit soon. pic.twitter.com/iyoNx70rxv Breaking News Global (@BreakingNAlerts) May 28, 2019 Daily Mail UK adds thunderstorms followed the tornado that struck Dayton. The weather service issued several tornado warnings for nearby cities and cautioned the people to remain vigilant and not let the guard down as the night progressed. Sheriff Rob Streck of Montgomery County requested people to avoid the roads in areas affected by the storm because the connectivity of many of the roads was bad due to damages. The devastation in Ohio comes in the wake of tornadoes in Missouri and Oklahoma. Life in Dayton disturbed According to NBC News, the tornado that struck Dayton, Ohio, resulted in damages in the north of the city. The climatic disturbance left thousands of customers without power and utilities. The Ohio Department of Transportation had to deploy snowplows to clean the highway of debris. Trotwood Mayor Mary McDonald informed a section of the media about the evacuation of several apartment complexes because of fears of gas explosions. She also informed that power lines were down across the city. Therefore, residents must conserve water because the loss of power could affect some services. In March, a tornado had struck Alabama and left many dead. Pakistan shipyard in Karachi is not enough to meet country needs: Senate ISLAMABAD: Pakistans sole shipyard in Karachi is no longer enough to meet the countrys needs. The government needs to move in the strategic direction of building more shipyards beginning with Gwadar. The Senate Standing Committee on Defence Production on Monday observed that Gwadar presents itself as an ideal location for the construction of a modern shipyard as there is no such facility in the region. It was highlighted during the meeting that neighbouring India has over 43 shipyards in addition to 50 dry dockyards and Bangladesh has 23 shipyards, becoming a ship exporting country. At the time of Partition, Pakistan came to possess one shipyard in Chittagong, then in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), inherited from the British colonial rulers. The Karachi shipyard was built in 1957. Article continues after ad Highlighting some of the salient features of the Karachi shipyard, the Senate standing committee was told that it is headed by a managing director and employs 2,800 people. To date 448 ships have been designed by the shipyard, including for the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, China, Iran and Belgium. The shipyard has also manufactured a navy fleet tanker. Other projects include aluminium boats, fast-track craft missile and submarines. It also carries out ship repair work and other general engineering projects. The meeting was chaired by Senator retired Lt Gen Abdul Qayyum at the Parliament House and was attended among others by Senators Nauman Wazir Khattak, Nuzhat Sadiq, Mohammad Akram, Pervaiz Rashid, Mohammad Ali Shah Jamote, Minister for Defence Production Zubaida Jalal and Managing Director of Karachi Shipyard and Engineering Works (KS&EW) Rear Admiral Athar Saleem. The meeting also held a briefing on the establishment of the Gwadar shipyard project which will take up an area of 750 acres of land. Mr Qayyum said that shipyards are considered strategic assets for any country as they not only contribute to a countrys indigenous commercial and defence pursuits but also generate revenue through ship exports. He said that the summary for the construction of a shipyard at Gwadar was approved by the previous government. Presently, 750 acres of land with four kilometres of sea port has been demarcated and allotted at Sur nullah and funds worth Rs200 million have also been released. The Senate committee stressed that work on the Gwadar shipyard should be completed on time and under the supervision of the defence production ministry which should also carry out feasibility studies relating to it. Zubaida Jalal said during the meeting that labour and administrative trainings will be a part of the Gwadar shipyard building project agreement. The committee made a couple of recommendations at the meeting conducting of value chain analysis, and working on pricing mechanism and tariff determination for competitive advantage. Moreover, the committee supported the proposal of commercial attaches to work as ex-officio defence attaches in countries where they were posted. Regarding the purchase of surplus electricity from the Pakistan Ordnance Factory (POF) Solar Plant, Sanjwal, the committee was told by the POF that the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority had approved the case and licence had been issued two days ago. Consultations with the Islamabad Electric Supply Company were also in process and after due requirements wheeling charges would be paid to the company, the committee was told. Taking advantage of the period during which Vietnamese banks are focusing on restructuring and bad debt settlement, foreign banks have been gearing up for bigger market share. According to the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), the total assets of foreign banks by the end of 2018 had reached VND1,137 trillion only, less than a quarter of total assets of Vietnams joint stock banks or state-owned banks, but their growth rate was very high, 19.12 percent, or 50 percent higher than joint stock banks and triple state-owned banks. Dien Dan Doanh Nghiep quoted its sources as reporting that the pressure from foreign banks on Vietnamese. There are nine wholly owned foreign banks, while the number of foreign bank branches has increased to 49 with the appearance of Agriculture Bank of China Hanoi and Kookmin Hanoi. Foreign credit institutions have been improving their financial capability. Standard Chartered Vietnam increased its chartered capital to VND3.534 trillion in early 2018 and then to VND4.215 trillion earlier this year. In 2018, the State Bank accepted plans to increase capital at foreign bank branches, including Nong Huyp Bank Hanoi Branch (to $80 million), Bank of China HCMC ($100 million) and Siam Bank HCMC ($100.47 million). The improved financial capability has paved the way for foreign banks to expand their networks in Vietnam. Previously, foreign banks mostly served businesses from their home countries, but they recently have jumped into the market segments where Vietnamese banks are dominating, such as consumer credit and funding small and medium sized enterprises. Previously, foreign banks mostly served businesses from their home countries, but they recently have jumped into the market segments where Vietnamese banks are dominating, such as consumer credit and funding small and medium sized enterprises. Shinhan Card, for instance, spent $151 million to take over Prudential Finance, showing its intention to conquer the consumer credit market and join the top 3 credit card service providers in three years. Banking experts commented that foreign banks are strengthening their operation in Vietnam in anticipation of the next-generation FTAs Vietnam has and will sign, such as CPTPP and EVFTA. Therefore, Vietnam is likely to see more foreign banks joining the market. They warned that while foreign banks are intensifying their business, Vietnamese banks are still busy settling bad debts and restructuring their operations to satisfy Basel II standards. Vu Ngoc Diep, Le Mai Trang and Nguyen Thuy Linh from the Trade University, in their recently released study, warned that Vietnams banks will meet challenges from banks from CPTPP member countries. CPTPP allows banks of member countries to provide services across borders, which means that banks in Japan can provide card and payment services to Vietnamese clients without a presence in Vietnam. Meanwhile, the CEO of HSBC Vietnam, Pham Hong Hai, argued that Vietnamese banks have bigger advantages. RELATED NEWS Compulsory reserve cuts to have little effect on banks Will zero dong banks turn into 100 percent foreign owned banks? Mai Lan Vietnams fruit exports to China in Q1 decreased by 6.3 percent compared with the same period last year. The door to the biggest export market is narrowing. The decrease is attributed to the fact that Vietnams exports must go through official channels rather than across border gates. In addition, Chinese customs agencies only accept customs clearance at some certain border gates. Vietnam had a prosperous year with fruit export turnover reaching a peak of $4 billion, but things did not go smoothly in the first months of 2019. Vietnam exported $1.4 billion worth of fruits and vegetables in the first four months of the year, an increase of 7.2 percent over the same period last year. China was Vietnams biggest fruit consumer in the first three months, accounting for 71.7 percent of market share. However, the export turnover was $680 million, or 6.4 percent lower than the same period last year. Vietnam exported $1.4 billion worth of fruits and vegetables in the first four months of the year, an increase of 7.2 percent over the same period last year. The exports in the first two months were even worse with export value of $585 million, decreasing by 9.7 percent compared with the same period in 2018. The Vietnam Vegetables and Fruits Association explained that there was a long Tet holiday in the first two months, while it was the time when Chinese harvested dragon fruit and water melon. China has also strengthened product quality examination and traceability. MARD said China has changed many regulations on fruit imports from Vietnam. Exporters have to satisfy Chinese requirements on food safety and quarantine, register growing area codes with Chinese customs agencies, and declare the origin of products. From October 1, 2019, imports must get certificates on food safety granted by Chinese agencies to consignments of imports. Besides China, the demand from other important markets in Southeast Asia also decreased sharply in the first two months, including Malaysia (- 52 percent) and Thailand (- 31.8 percent). Only the strong rise of the exports in March, especially in the second half of the month, helped exports in Q1 recover. The export turnover in the entire Q1 was $948.9 million, a modest slide of 2.1 percent. Nevertheless, while the export turnover from China and Southeast Asia decreased, the figures from other markets increased. The veggie and fruit exports to Australia in Q1 increased by 54.4 percent to $9.5 million, to South Korea by 30.9 percent to $31.3 million, the Netherlands 25.9 percent to $16.6 million and the US 10 percent to $31.7 million. This shows improvement in Vietnams capability of approaching choosy markets, analysts said. On April 18, Dong Thap provincial authorities joined forces with MARD to organize a ceremony on announcing the export of the first consignments of mango to the US. RELATED NEWS Vietnams exporters sell more fruit thanks to blockchain apps Vietnam an ideal market for foreign fruit exporters Kim Chi The local demand for pharmaceutical products has rapidly expanded as a consequence of high economic growth, rising per capita income, and an increasingly large population, which has made it more attractive to potential investors. The incursion of more big names into the Vietnamese pharmaceutical industry is turning up the heat in the domestic market, which is good news for local consumers. Lamdong Pharmaceutical JSC has officially become Nguyen Kims subsidiary. Nguyen Kim Trading JSC has recently announced the purchase of an additional 1.36 million shares at Lamdong Pharmaceutical JSC (Ladophar) from existing 2.6 million shares to increase its holding in the drug company to 51.15 percent. The company has yet to disclose the valuation of the deal, however, previously, Nguyen Kim offered VND25,600 per share, VND6,000 lower than the market value of Ladophar, thus the deal is estimated at VND35 billion (US$1.52 million). With the successful deal, Ladophar has become Nguyen Kims subsidiary, which will pave the way for the large technology retailer to enter the domestic potential pharmaceutical market. At the previous proposals, Nguyen Kim committed that if the deal succeeded, it would join the management of the core business lines of the pharmaceutical company, including herb medicine production, commercial medicines, medical equipment and importing drugs. Not only Nguyen Kim, but other big technology retailers are also seeking opportunities in pharmaceuticals, such as Mobile World Group with investment in Phuc An Khang drug chain, FPT Digital Retail Company with in Long Chau Pharmacy, or even giant Vingroup with the establishment of VinFa Pharmacy. Industry insiders said with strong financial strength, good governance and experiences in applying the store chain management format, the participation of these large retailers, in the local drugs retail market is expected to drive the market forward in the coming time. Long-term investments According to experts, the local demand for pharmaceutical products has rapidly expanded as a consequence of high economic growth, rising per capita income, and an increasingly large population, which has made it more attractive to potential investors. Vo Tan Thanh, vice president of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the pharmaceutical industry had seen two-digit growth in recent years and that would continue until 2022. The demand for quality health care is growing every year with rising incomes in Vietnam. Moreover, the changing disease patterns with the inexorable increase in the elderly population of over 60 years will also contribute to greater healthcare spending in Vietnam, Thanh said. Data from macroeconomic, industry and financial market research firm Business Monitor International (BMI) also showed Vietnams health care expenditure was estimated at US$16.1 billion in 2017, representing 7.5 percent of its GDP. The figure is forecast to grow at 12.5 percent a year to US$22.7 billion by 2021. BMI also predicted double-digit growth in the next few years for the medical equipment and drug markets. Meanwhile, experts said the local pharmaceutical retail market is large but has yet to see the prevalence of any particular firm. The sectors distribution is still in the hands of private pharmacies with no one seizing a market share of up to 20 percent. This therefore inspired the retail giants to break into the market. However, experts said that actual changes in the local drug distribution market are expected to take place over the next 5-10 years as this year is still a period of exploration and evaluating market approach for new players. According to Phan Van Hieu, chairman of CVI Pharmaceutical and Cosmetics JSC, the pharmaceutical retail market is not an easy sector for even big distributors, explaining that the drug market has a lot of barriers and is different from others. The pharmaceutical industry is a specific industry, so managers and salespeople need to have strong medical knowledge, he explained, adding that training of sales staff requires 2-3 years. Hanoitimes Anh Hong The Ministry of Transport is to take responsibility for assisting build-transfer-operate (BOT) road investors facing revenue shortages in order to help them secure investment efficiently as well as avoid non-performing loans. The Ministry of Transport plans to collect information on BOT projects that have sustained revenue shortages and will then submit a relevant report to the Government for consideration. Nguyen Danh Huy, head of the Public - Private Partnership Department under the Ministry of Transport (MoT), made the remark during a recent workshop aimed at calling for BOT investment in some sections of the north-south expressway project, the first event of its kind held by the ministry. Previously, most BOT road investors had been assigned to undertake the execution. Now there would not be an open pathway for incapable investors and those lacking experience in executing large-scale projects. Bidding transparency urged Bidding for the execution of the expressway sections goes some way to enhance financial transparency. However, Nguyen Duc Kien, deputy head of the Economic Committee under the National Assembly (NA), held that the capital mobilization for these sections remain a thorny issue. Kien elaborated that the giant project is in need of VND118 trillion (US$5.07 billion), including VND55 trillion (US$2.36 billion) mobilized from the State budget, and VND20 trillion (US$860 million) for site clearance. The remaining capital is to be allocated for sections which pose a high risk of payback due to low traffic density. A public private partnership (PPP) format used for the expressway project is set to facilitate the transfer of cleared ground for investors so that they could save costs and maximize profits from applying cutting-edge technology into the construction process, the NA official said. Nguyen Van Loi from the association for Vietnam transport infrastructure investors said that domestic firms are likely to meet financing-related criteria, but fail to satisfy those in relation to execution experience. Investors are required to have previous experience in undertaking similar projects whose total investment capital reaches 50 per cent of the expressway sections, Loi said. As such, many domestic firms would fail to meet this requirement due to a lack of experience in deploying large-scale projects. This regulation incidentally puts domestic investors at a disadvantage in comparison to powerful foreign corporations. Vu Tien Loc, Chairman of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said state agencies should create favorable conditions for domestic firms to participate in large-scale projects. Loc cited that many countries allocate a certain proportion of large projects ordered by the state to local firms or encourage foreign investors to forge links and undertake joint ventures with domestic companies in realizing these projects. Huy from the Public - Private Partnership Department revealed that domestic firms account for 50 per cent of the total financiers who have expressed their interest in the expressway project, along with an array of investors from the UK, Malaysia, the Republic of Korea, Japan, and China. He called upon competent agencies to define clear bidding procedures and binding progress and quality control contracts which require investors to make commitments to executing the project at a secured process and the best quality. Strong commitments The State makes commitments to transfer cleared land to investors prior to the beginning of the execution. Localities, which are home to 11 sections of the expressway, are required to set up landmarks for these sections within May, Huy said. Indeed, the most common issue that foreign investors raise is about foreign currency guarantees, minimum revenue guarantees, and commitments to toll hikes from State agencies. Nguyen Xuan Bac, deputy head of the Credit Department under the State Bank of Vietnam, affirmed that foreign currency guarantees must comply with current legal regulations, adding that the central bank will make foreign exchange guarantees and take on measures aimed to stabilize exchange rates if necessary. He also warned that foreign investors should consider risks relating to exchange rates which could hamstring their payback. Exchange rates are subject to the countrys current provision regulation as the Government and the central bank have been pursuing policies to achieve macroeconomic stability in order to create a favorable business climate for investors. Regarding revenue shortages, Bac said that some BOT projects failed to increase tolls as scheduled since the Government previously had issued a resolution on tightening the control of toll collection at BOT projects. Given this, Huy from the Public Private Partnership Department unveiled that the MoT plans to collect information on BOT projects that have sustained revenue shortages and will then submit a relevant report to the Government for consideration. As for the north-south expressway project, a road map for toll hikes has been clarified without any changes during the implementation of the PPP contracts. Le Tuan Anh, deputy head of the Investment Department under the Ministry of Finance, noted that toll levels set for the expressway project are adjusted in line with the Law on Price. A resolution by the NA also stipulates the maximum toll level stands at 3,400 VND (14.6 US cents)/vehicle/km. VOV VN State Audit pinpoints violations at BT, BOT projects, banks The State Audit of Vietnam (SAV) has uncovered several violations in the execution of build-transfer (BT) and build-operate-transfer (BOT) projects as well as at local banks. The Vietnamese retail market would hardly attract more European retail groups in the mass segment due to the harsh competition. Large Western retailers namely Metro, BigC, Auchan have left Vietnam due to inappropriate business strategy, fierce competition with local and regional peers and the rapid growth of e-commerce, Ho Chi Minh City Law newspaper reported. French Auchan Retail sold its loss-making business in Vietnam after five years of operation. The withdrawal of Frances Auchan Auchan Retail CEO Edgar Bonte announced that the group had decided to sell its 18 supermarkets in Vietnam after five years of operation due to tough competition. Last year, the business in Vietnam generated only EUR45 million (US$50.4 million) and extended its loss streak. Auchan Vietnams Director of Communications Vu Thi Kim Nuong elaborated that the group was in the negotiating process with other retailers to transfer the stores. Entering Vietnams market in 2015, Auchan, unlike other retailers, chose to cooperate with major domestic real estate developers to have its stores located right in the developers apartment buildings. The group ambitiously planned to pour US$500 million to expand its network to 300 supermarkets and stores in Vietnam, however, only 18 of those opened in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Tay Ninh. In particular, the French major retailer repeatedly changed its brand identity from S.Mart to Simply and then Auchan, seeking for more opportunities but the revenue stayed still, it even fell into a loss and the retailer ended selling its business. Prior to the withdrawal, another French retailer Casino Group sold Big C Vietnam to Thailand conglomerate Central Group, which is controlled by Thai billionaire Chirathivats family for US$1.05 billion including debt. Furthermore, TCC Group from Thailand decided to purchase all of the German Metro Groups wholesale facilities, including all commercial centers and real estate worth EUR655 million (US$731 million). Before the transfer, Metro had 19 commercial centers in 14 provinces and cities, five transit warehouses and about 3,600 employees. The group bid farewell to Vietnam after years of unprofitable business, as a result, the Metro brand was absent from the domestic market after being sold to the Thai group. Goodbye to the favorable market Many reasons can be listed why foreign retailers withdrew from Vietnam. Improper locations of Auchans stores in the department buildings that hindered the brand recognition, according to retail expert Dao Duy Khuong. In addition, Auchan was purely supermarkets for consuming but not social interacting or entertaining and fell short of solutions to attract more customers. Another expert pointed out that Auchan entered Vietnam when the supermarket segment was nearly shaped. The brand was overshadowed by the strong waves of Lotte from South Korea or Aeon form Japan, among others, which have conquered across the Asian market. New fierce competitors The experts shared a common view that in the coming time, the domestic retail market would hardly attract more European retail groups in the mass segment due to the harsh competition. In the segment of shopping mall, the nearby Thailand and South Korea can see more opportunities for accessibility than those far-off countries including Germany and France. However, in the segment of luxury stores, foreign brands from the West and the US still take the upper hand. The domestic retail market in the segment will develop with specific retail chains such as interior products chain or vehicle parts chain, among others, said brand expert Vo Van Quang. For his part, Dao Duy Khuong forecast that the retail market would see a surge of average-scale stores like convenience store. The model of retail stores of around 100 to 200 square meters serving as convenience stores and selling essential goods as well as fresh ingredients will flourish. On the other hand, stores in any models have to join in the fierce competition with e-commerce, which has thrived recently. Therefore, existing stores and supermarkets have been told to innovate constantly to meet the demand of Vietnamese consumers and the combined model of consuming, entertaining and relaxing will take the upper hand. Hanoitimes Ha An Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc had a meeting with the King of Sweden Carl XVI Gustaf on May 27 as part of the activities in his ongoing official visit to Sweden. Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (C) meets with Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf (L) The Vietnamese Government leader thanked the Swedish Royal family and Government for their warm welcome for the Vietnamese delegation, while conveying the invitation of Party Secretary and President Nguyen Phu Trong to the King and Queen to visit Vietnam again. PM Phuc affirmed that the Vietnamese people always treasure the friendship, valuable support of Swedish people for Vietnam in the past and at present, stressing that Vietnam highly valued the relations and multi-faceted cooperation between the two countries. For his part, King Carl XVI Gustaf applauded the Vietnamese leaders visit to Sweden, affirming that this and the official one to Vietnam by Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree in early May have marked special milestones in the relationship between the two countries on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties. The King said he always keeps a good impression on the Vietnamese country and people during his visit to Vietnam in 2004, adding that he admires the will of Vietnamese people and appreciates achievements that the Southeast Asian nation has achieved on its path of socio-economic development. He affirmed that the Swedish Royal Family always supports stronger and more effective development between the two nations through multifaceted cooperation, and the partnership for sustainable development and innovation that the two countries are heading.-VNA Vietnam always treasures its traditional friendship with Sweden and wants to further strengthen bilateral ties in diverse areas, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc told his Swedish counterpart Stefan Loefven on May 27. browser not support iframe. PM Phuc, who is on an official visit to Sweden from May 26-28, also expressed his delight at visiting the European country on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties. He affirmed that the Vietnamese people always remember the precious support by the Swedish people during the anti-American war, as well as in its current national development and global integration. Loefven, for his part, said the visit will create a new driving force for bilateral ties, adding that the Swedish government considers Vietnam an important partner in the region. The two PMs shared view that Vietnam-Sweden ties have thrived in diverse areas at many levels over the past few years, thus tapping each sides strengths. In particular, the visit to Vietnam by Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria on May 6-8 has contributed to cementing friendship and mutual understanding between the two nations. They agreed to facilitate all-level visits and continue effectively implementing bilateral cooperation mechanisms. As bilateral trade-investment ties have yet to match the two nations potential, the Vietnamese PM asked the Swedish government to encourage firms to enhance investment in Vietnam in fields of their strength, such as manufacturing, chemicals, electronics, information and communications, forest plantation, sustainable wood processing, waste treatment, pharmaceuticals, and the support industry for automobiles. They also vowed to increase bilateral partnership in innovation, smart urban development, environment, artificial intelligence, information and communications, and healthcare. Host and guest welcomed the organisation of the Vietnam-Sweden Business Forum in Stockholm during the visit, and affirmed the importance of promoting connectivity among businesses following the Vietnam-Sweden Business Summit held in Hanoi during Crown Princess Victorias visit. The Vietnamese PM asked Sweden to support the Vietnam-European Union (EU) comprehensive partnership. The two PMs promised to work closely together to step up the signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and the EU - Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement in the coming weeks to bring benefits to both sides. On the occasion, the Swedish government leader presented a letter of intent on an investment credit worth over 2 billion USD in Vietnam to his guest. The host also spoke highly of the Vietnamese communitys contributions to prosperity and cultural diversity in Sweden as well as the promotion of bilateral trade and investment. The two sides pledged to boost liaisons at regional and global forums such as the United Nations, the Asia-Europe Meeting, the ASEAN-EU cooperation, as well as join common efforts to cope with global issues, climate change, and ensure sustainable development. They reached a consensus on the importance of the settlement of disputes by peaceful means, ensuring navigation and aviation freedom in line with international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Loefven also accepted Phucs invitation to visit Vietnam with great pleasure. Prime Minister meets Swedish diplomats, experts Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc met Swedish diplomats, experts and friends in Stockholm on May 27, as part of his ongoing Sweden visit on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties. The meeting saw the presence of Birgitta Dahl, former Speaker of the Parliament, Anders Forsberg, former Secretary General of the Parliament, the present and former ambassadors of Sweden to Vietnam, and two sons of late Prime Minister Olof Palme, who is a great friend of Vietnamese people, among others. The PM recalled the history five decades ago when people across five continents took to streets to go on parade in support of Vietnams justice cause. Sweden was the first western country to establish diplomatic ties with Vietnam, adding that its precious material and spiritual support has encouraged the Vietnamese people to reap more victories. He said many works funded by Sweden such as Bai Bang paper mill, Vietnam National Childrens Hospital, Uong Bi hospital have become symbols of Vietnam Sweden ties. Support by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) has helped Vietnam achieve the United Nations Millennial Development Goals and become a lower middle-income country towards gradual modernisation. Speaking highly of progress in bilateral ties across economy, trade and investment, the PM informed participants about the success of his talks with Swedish counterpart Stefan Lofven, saying that both sides agreed on measures to continue lifting bilateral ties to a greater height. The Vietnamese leader believed that bilateral connectivity will contribute to boosting trade and investment links and welcome opportunities brought about by the upcoming European Union Vietnam Free Trade Agreement. He also took the occasion to thank the Swedish government, businesses and friends for their support to the development of Vietnam EU ties. The growing Vietnam Sweden friendship is partly attributable to generations of Swedish friends, he stated. Swedish friends expressed their delight at regular bilateral visits over the past years, citing the recent Vietnam visit by Crown Princess Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree and the ongoing visit by the PM. They vowed to forever maintain and uphold bilateral long-standing friendship founded and fostered by generations of the two countries leaders and people. VNA Having previously settled in Canada, overseas Vietnamese Tran Ba Cuong John returned to Vietnam to help build the first automobile manufacturing project in Quang Nam Province in 2003. More recently, nano-biological research lured him back to develop hi-tech solutions for the Vietnamese farming business. Quang Nam debuts nano-tech shrimp farms Stepping forward with high-tech Vietnamese-Canadian engineer Tran Ba Cuong John shows a quality test on his smartphone at the shrimp farm in Thang Binh District's Binh Hai Commune. He has helped develop the first nano-tech shrimp farm in Vietnam. Cuong, who got off to a successful start with his first hi-tech shrimp farming project in Ninh Thuan Province last year, expanded the application to a shrimp farm in Quang Nam Provinces coastal Thang Binh District with the aim of developing nano-tech production chains for the areas coastal communities. Cuong's QNTek Joint-Stock Company applied its technology on 6.5 hectares in Binh Hai Commune with a total investment of US$1.5 million. It was the first shrimp farm in the country to use a non-chemical antibiotic and water filtration re-circulation system. Extracts from guava leaves, garlic and other natural antibiotic agents are mixed into the food to prevent the white-legged shrimp from becoming infected. These natural antibiotics help farmers reduce the use of chemical antibiotics and cut production costs. A bubble generator helps add dissolved oxygen to the water. Cuong, who is QNTeks technology director, said the shrimp would be naturally healthy thanks to the higher oxygen content in water, allowing them to eat more than in typical conditions. A view of a nano-tech shrimp farm in Quang Nam Province's Thang Binh District. VNS Photos Cong Thanh Eight hours are needed to pump miniscule bubbles of oxygen into the water each day for rich oxygen content (96 per cent) for the shrimp to breathe well. This is a key factor that could help shrimp farms eliminate bacterial contamination, as high oxidisation will kill harmful bacteria in the water, Cuong said. Like humans, aquatic species can live well with clean water sources, fresh air and a rich environment, and micro-nano oxygen solutions are seen as a positive antibiotic that helps shrimp grow faster, he said. The engineer said the closed water farm controls the quality of sea water it takes in with an ozone system. Bio-engineers at the farms laboratory frequently test the quality of the water, the shrimp and the micro algae to eliminate harmful factors that could lead to mass infection. Cuong said the oxygen system could be used in cultivation, poultry and livestock breeding and fish conservation. He said the nano-biotech application could help farmers earn a net profit of VND50,000 per kilo of exported white-legged shrimp. Luu Luc, general director of QNTek, said the farm project was designed to produce nine tonnes of shrimp annually from each 1,000sq.m pool in the first stage of investment. The nano-tech application would be used to expand to 100ha of hi-tech shrimp farms in Thang Binh and Nui Thanh districts. Tran Ba Cuong John checks on the shrimp at the farm in Thang Binh District. The farm could serve as a model for the mass development of a modern shrimp farming zone in central Vietnam. A vice chairman of Quang Nam Province Peoples Committee, Le Tri Thanh, said the development of nano-tech shrimp farms would play a strategic role in building the coastal area into a production zone for export-quality shrimp products in central Vietnam. We recognise that most shrimp farms throughout the province were based on traditional practices and breeding experience from local farmers, Thanh said. No hi-tech or scientific skills and knowledge were being used. Its risky when shrimp farms get infections en masse, he said. Farmers can protect their shrimp farms with technology and nano-tech solutions for sustainable aquaculture in the near future. Thanh said the project would be a model for the mass development of hi-tech farming chains as well as emerging aquaculture processing and food chain factories. Representatives of Marubeni Vietnam have been co-operating with QNTek Joint-Stock Company to process and export white-legged shrimp to the Japanese market. According to Quang Nam authorities, Japan and South Korea are two key export markets for the provinces white-legged shrimp this year. Quang Nam has developed 1,750ha of aquaculture, 1,350ha of which is used for white-legged shrimp farming with an average yield of 4.5 tonnes of shrimp per hectare and revenue of VND202 million (US$8,900) per hectare per year. Earlier this year, the province also approved hi-tech farming and agriculture projects in Thang Binh District and the township of Dien Ban on 425 hectares of land with planned investment totalling VND5.4 trillion ($239 million) by 2024. VNS A ceremony marking the 129th birth anniversary of late President Ho Chi Minh (May 19, 1890) took place in Buenos Aires on May 26. President Ho Chi Minh (File Photo: VNA) The event, organised by the Argentina-Vietnam Cultural Institute (Instituto de Cultura Argentino Vietnamita - ICAV) and the Embassy of Vietnam in Argentina, was attended by ICAV staff, local people and Vietnamese people living in the country. Addressing the event, ICAV President Poldi Sosa spoke highly of contributions by the late leader to the establishment of Democratic Republic of Vietnam, now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, as well as the countrys heroic struggle for liberation and independence. She voiced her hope that the life stories of President Ho Chi Minh and Vietnams history will be further introduced to Argentine people, especially the youths, thereby promoting the two countries friendship. In reply, Vietnamese Ambassador to Argentina Dang Xuan Dung said Vietnamese people always bear in mind the contributions by President Ho Chi Minh and strive to implement his testament. The Vietnamese Embassy in the country and local authorities inaugurated a bust of the late President in Buenos Aires in August 2012. The same day, a contest on telling stories of President Ho Chi Minh was held in The Hague, the Netherlands. Winners of the contest pose for a photo together with Vietnamese Ambassador Ngo Thi Hoa (fourth from left) Earlier, overseas Vietnamese living in the European country offered incense to the late President on the occasion of his birth anniversary and the 50th anniversary of the implementation of his will (1969). Vietnamese Ambassador to the Netherlands Ngo Thi Hoa, head of the organising board, said the contest aims to raise patriotism among Vietnamese people living in the European country.-VNA Taliban to hold talks with Afghan-Russian officials in Moscow Afghan Taliban say their political affairs chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar will hold talks with senior Afghan politicians and Russian officials in Moscow over the next two days to discuss peace in Afghanistan. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said a 14-member Taliban delegation will hold discussions about future Afghanistan with a number of Afghan politicians in an Intra-Afghan Conference scheduled for May 29. This is the second time Moscow will host the Taliban negotiators and Afghan political leaders including former President Hamid Karzai in nearly four months. Taliban and Afghan politicians met in Moscow in early February and the meeting had called for the complete withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan. The Moscows intra-Afghan conference has assumed importance following the postponement of the intra-Afghan dialogue scheduled to be held in Qatar on April 20-21 and the Taliban refusal to hold direct talks with the Kabul administration. Controversy over participants forced Qatar to postpone the conference as Taliban had also opposed Kabuls 250-member list. Taliban had blamed the Afghan government for the postponement of the Qatars intra-Afghan dialogue. Karim Khalili, head of the High Peace Council, which is mandated by the government for peace talks with the armed opponents, presidential candidate Haneef Atmar, Jamiat-e-Islami leader Atta Muhammad Noor, former deputy Foreign Minister Hekmat Karzai and former National Security Adviser are among a group of nearly 20 prominent leaders who will attend the meeting. Moreover, the delegation of Islamic Emirate will also hold closed-door meetings with senior officials of the Russian Federation, the Taliban spokesman said in a statement. The Taliban visit to Moscow is important as Baradar, who is considered as one of the few most influential leaders in the Taliban hierarchy, will sit face-to-face with the Afghan politicians for the first time since he was released by Pakistan in October. He was captured in Karachi in 2010 in a joint raid by the Pakistani and US agents. The Taliban delegation will take part in a conference marking 100 years of diplomatic relations between Russia and Afghanistan being held on Tuesday. The spokesperson of the Russian Foreign Ministry has said representatives of the Embassy of Afghanistan in Russia have also been invited to the event. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will deliver a welcoming address. The Taliban delegation includes: Sher Abbas Stanekzai, Shahabuddin Delawar, Sayyed Rasool, Mawlawi Abdul Salam Hanafi, Mullah Muhammad Fazal Akhund, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqqi, Mullah Abdul Latif Mansoor, Qari Deen Muhammad Hanif, Muhammad Sohail Shaheen, Mullah Khairullah Khairkhwa, Mawlawi Muhammad Nabi Omari, Mullah Noorullah Noori and Mawlawi Muhammad Hassan. The United Nations last month temporarily lifted travel ban on the 14-member Taliban negotiation team to facilitate them travel to other countries in connection with peace efforts. The US however has refused to agree to a withdrawal as part of an eventual deal until the Taliban put in place security guarantees, a ceasefire, and other commitments including an intra-Afghan dialogue with the Kabul government and other Afghan representatives. Michael Wolff in his new book the follow up to the NY Times Bestseller Fire and Fury Claims Special Counsel Robert Mueller drew up a three-count obstruction of justice indictment against President Trump before deciding to shelve it an explosive claim which a spokesman for Robert Mueller is flatly denying. By James DiGeorgia In his new book Siege: Trump Under Fire, written by Michael Wolf, the sequel to his bestseller Fire and Fury will be released on June 4. The book claims that in redacted documents, still not released from the Mueller investigation, the Special Counsel went as far as drawing up an indictment for obstruction of Justice indictments naming President Donald J. Trump. The Guardian, based in the United Kingdom, is claiming they obtained a copy of Michael Wolfs new book Siege and viewed the documents substantiating the claims. Wolf research prove his claims. Despite the admission by The Guardian; to have reviewed the documents Wolf is basing his claim, Peter Carr, a spokesman for Mueller, told the Guardian: The documents that youve described do not exist. Is Peter Carr, a man with a great deal of credibility uninformed, splitting hairs, or is this another case of giving misinformation to deflate the real facts before they are seen by the public? Are the documents genuine? All of this controversy is likely to drive this latest Michael Wolffs eagerly awaited new book into a best seller on day one of its releases. Michael Wolffs Fire and Fury was a no holds bar eye witness account of the outright incompetence and dysfunction within the Trump White House from day one. Despite repeated denials and accusations of Fake News by President Trump and his staff over Wolffs accounts in his first book about the many events within it. Many of Wolffs assertions were confirmed by later works, among them Fear: Trump in the White House by the Watergate reporter Bob Woodward and members of the Trump Administration that left the White House Wolffs Fire and Fury have generated sales of close to 5 million copies moreover, led to the banishment of Stephen Bannon, who also lost his position at Breitbart News. Muellers final report was delivered to the attorney general, William Barr, on March 22, 2019, and made public in redacted form on 18 April. Muellers summary concluded that the evidence uncovered by Mueller did not justify a that a conspiracy existed between President Trump and Russia claiming witnesses were impossible to interview because of distance, and willingness but did lay out 11 possible instances of obstruction of justice, leaving the decision to Congress on deciding what should come next. Barrs said he believed the 11 instances of possible obstruction were not conclusive, which helped Trump and his supporters claim the President was exonerated. The revelation if it is true that Special Counsel Robert Mueller Did Draw Up An Obstruction Indictment against Trump would be a thunderclap that could go a long way of destroying Trumps exoneration claim Wolff book according to the UK The Guardian reports that Muellers office drew up a three-count outline of the presidents alleged abuses, under the title United States of America against Donald J Trump, Defendant. The document sat on the special counsels desk, Wolff writes, for almost a year. According to The Guardian, President Trump became unhinged and showed his Anti-Semitism when he learned Michael Cohen, David Pecker and Allen Weisselberg were cooperating with the Special Counsel and other law enforcement officials in New York State, City and at the SDNY! The Guardian claims. The first count (of the Trump obstruction indictment), under Title 18, United States Code, Section 1505, charged the president with corruptly or by threats of force or threatening communication influencing, obstructing or impeding a pending proceeding before a department or agency of the United States. The 2nd count, under section 1512, charged the president with tampering with a witness, victim or informant. The 3rd count, under section 1513, charged the president with retaliating against a witness, victim or informant. According to The Guardian. Wolff writes that the draft indictment he examined, says Trumps attempts to obstruct justice...began on the seventh day of his administration. Tracing the line of obstruction from National Security Advisor Michael Flynns lies to the FBI about his contacts with Russian representative[s]; to the presidents efforts to have [FBI director] James Comey protect Flynn; to Comeys firing; to the presidents efforts to interfere with the special counsels investigation, to his attempt to cover up his son and son-in-laws meeting with Russian governmental agents; to his moves to interfere with Deputy Director of the FBI Andrew McCabe s testimony The draft indictment, Wolff writes, also spelled out what Mueller considered to be the overriding theme of Trumps presidency: the extraordinary lengths taken to protect him from legal scrutiny and accountability and to undermine the official panels investigating his actions. According to Wolff, Mueller endured tortured deliberations over whether to charge the president and even more tortured deliberations over the presidents power to dismiss him or his boss, the then deputy attorney general, Rod Rosenstein. Mueller ultimately demurred, Wolff writes, but his teams work gave rise to as many as 13 other investigations that led to cooperating witness plea deals from Michael Cohen, David Pecker of American Media and Trump Organization accountant Allen Weisselberg. The Jews always flip, was Trumps comment on those deals, according to Wolff. The justice departments Office of Legal Counsel had said a sitting president could not be indicted. According to Wolff, Muellers team drew up both the three-count indictment of Trump and a draft memorandum of law opposing an anticipated motion to dismiss. The revelations and the reaction to them next week are likely to headline stories next week and the week after. Buckle your seat belts! Legion plans weeks events WATERLOO American Legion Post 138 at 728 Commercial St. has several events planned. Bingo is planned at 6:15 p.m. today, with food served. There will be a grill-out with hamburgers and brats starting at noon Wednesday. Bingo special is at 6:15 p.m. Friday, with food served. A pepper tournament will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday. Noon Kiwanis meets today WATERLOO The Waterloo Noon Kiwanis will meet Tuesday at the Elks Lodge for a noon luncheon. Joni Hansen, director of Hospitality House, will speaking on the plight of the homeless in Waterloo Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers. Call Larry Cain at (319) 231-9871 for more information. PDCM holds Medicare talk CEDAR VALLEY PDCM Insurance will host an informational Medicare seminar from 4 to 5 p.m. today in the Smarter Center inside the PDCM office at 3022 Airport Blvd. Its designed to help those who are turning 65 to understand Medicare in a simple and format. Attendance is free and open to the first 40 participants. RSVPs are requested, but not required. Contact Nathan Link at 234-8888 or nlink@pdcm.com. VFW fish fry in Waverly WAVERLY The Waverly VFW Cooties will host an all-you-care-to-eat fish fry meal at the Waverly Area Veterans Post, 1300 Fourth St. NW, on Thursday. The meal hours are 5:30 to 7 p.m., and the cost is $8. This meal is open to the public. Free meal at First Baptist WATERLOO First Baptist Church, West Fourth and Baltimore streets, will host a free community meal from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Wednesday. The churchs free meals take place the last Wednesday of each month. Parking is available in the church parking lot. For more information, call 234-1537. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The vehicle was traveling in the 300 block of Center Street around 2:10 p.m. Saturday when someone opened fire. No one inside the vehicle was injured according to police. WATERLOO The Cedar Valleys newest legislators have returned home with more experience and knowledge after their first session. Sen. Eric Giddens, D-Cedar Falls, elected during a special election in March, and Rep. Dave Williams, D-Cedar Falls, are looking forward to meeting with their constituents between now and the next legislative session in 2020. What I hope to do is set small groups and small coffees and be able to get more input and discussion going, Williams said. Williams was humbled by his experiences at the Capitol. Driving back to Cedar Falls, he would think about the thousands of people he represents in his district, and it would compel him to make sure his voice was heard, but he found it difficult as a member of the minority party, Williams said. It takes time to build relationships, Williams said. Giddens found himself in a unique situation because of the special election. He only was in Des Moines the last five weeks of the legislative session. I had a lot to learn really quickly, Giddens said. Ive got a lot more to learn yet. Regardless, it was exciting for both men to be in the middle of the process, they said. Both opposed a bill that would have let electric utilities charge new fees to customers with solar panels for access to power lines. Even though I was not assigned to the bill, I have some background there and that worked in our advantage, Williams said. The (Cedar) Valley is not in favor of that bill because what it did was it allowed utilities to corner the market. Thats not good for Iowa or the district. Giddens and Williams both previously served on the Cedar Falls Board of Education and both say education is a priority. This year maybe we bent the curve a little bit. For example, the K-12 funding was 2%, Williams said about the increased percentage for K-12 funding. He also wants to see more funding for universities and colleges in the state. One thing that really puzzles me is our district, House District 60, is not in as bad a shape as the rural district thats shrinking in size, Williams said. Giddens also wants more funding for education. Its not just public education, we need to fund our private liberal arts colleges through state government support, Giddens said. Its education across the board that needs to be fully funded. Both oppose the privatization of Medicaid. Health care was a big issue for Giddens and Williams, and they hope to generate bipartisan support for changes next session. The MCOs are dropping like flies, Giddens said. Its a mess. A law creating a childrens mental health system was passed by lawmakers and signed by Gov. Kim Reynolds, but both lawmakers say more needs to be done. It was a baby step, Williams said. Many of the things Giddens was most passionate about did come up during his time in the session. Im passionate about energy and climate issues, but those things with the (Republican) leadership we have right now are not priorities, Giddens said. Other veteran Cedar Valley legislators helped Giddens and Williams feel at home when they got to the Capitol. I went in there looking to build relationships, Williams said. I worked hard and I asked a lot of questions and I listened when I wasnt asking questions. Love 0 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Open question to historians: Was the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution written in pencil? Because lately it feels like some folks have been trying to take an eraser to that little bit about a free press. Two recent incidents that rightly have garnered national attention a police raid on an investigative journalists home and new charges brought against the founder of WikiLeaks have raised concerns about an erosion of the free press. On May 10, San Francisco police raided the home of freelance reporter Bryan Carmody after he refused to reveal a source. Police bashed in Carmodys door with a sledgehammer and handcuffed him for hours while they seized equipment and documents. Carmody acquired a police report on the death of a prominent public defender and sold copies of the report and his reporting to news outlets. Police said they suspect Carmody was involved in a criminal conspiracy. And last week the federal government introduced 17 new charges against WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. The charges were brought under the federal Espionage Act for Assanges role in the publication of information regarding national defense. First Amendment advocates ideally that would include literally everyone have expressed concerns about both incidents. In the Assange case, attorneys for the federal Justice Department said they do not view Assange as a journalist. That does not make many journalists, including this one, any less uneasy about the federal government prosecuting an individual for acquiring and publishing information and documents from government sources. That sounds an awful lot like a national security reporters job. The New York Times editorial board wrote the charges could have a chilling effect on American journalism as it has been practiced for generations, and said they are aimed straight at the heart of the First Amendment. You will find few traditional journalists who would give their blessing to the manner in which Assange helped to obtain and publish the information through WikiLeaks. Thats not the point here. Whats concerning is the federal government bringing charges against an individual whether or not anyone views that individual as a journalist for acquiring and publishing information regarding national security, and the governments use of the Espionage Act, which was designed to target foreign spies, not journalists. Similarly upsetting is the episode in San Francisco, where police obtained a search warrant after Carmody refused to reveal his source. Whats more, California has state laws designed to shield reporters from being forced to reveal their sources. The San Francisco Chronicles editorial board wrote, the police might as well have taken their sledgehammer to the United States Constitution. In order for our democracy to work, journalists must have the ability to acquire and publish sensitive information from sources inside our government. It is incumbent upon those journalists to publish any such material in a careful and thoughtful manner. The government should not be turning journalism into criminal actions. And yet thats exactly what we have seen in these two cases. That should be unsettling to any who values the free press, which the countrys founders placed right at the top of the Bill of Rights. Erin Murphy covers Iowa politics and government for Lee Enterprises. His email address is erin.murphy@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter at @ErinDMurphy. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Catch the latest in Opinion Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly 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. Tribals to use CNICs as Sehat Insaf Cards Prime Minister Imran Khan Monday directed the authorities concerned to provide health facilities to the people of former tribal areas on their Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) until they received their Sehat Insaf Cards. He was chairing a high-level meeting at the Prime Ministers House to review development work and health facilities to the people of erstwhile FATA. The meeting was attended by Planning Minister Khusro Bakhtyar, Minister for Power Omar Ayub, Adviser on Finance Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mahmood Khan, Special Assistant on Health Dr Zafar Ullah, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Minister Taimur Jahgra and others. Meanwhile, it was reported that Prime Minister Imran Khan would launch the Ehsaas Qarz-e-Hasna Scheme and the Asset Transfer Scheme next month under the umbrella of Ehsaas programme. Under the Ehsaas Qarz-e-Hasna Scheme, more than 80,000 loans would be disbursed each month among youth and women, enabling them to undertake their own business ventures and help their families extricate from the poverty trap. These loans would be prioritised in the lagging and underdeveloped districts. Appreciating the efficacy of the existing programme, the prime minister approved injection of an additional amount of Rs 5 billion to the existing fund so that the programme was launched in collaboration with the existing partners of the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund. Imran to launch Ehsaas implementation programme next month The decision was made during a briefing by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Social Safety Nets and Poverty Alleviation (PASS) Dr Sania Nishtar on the status of implementation of the Ehsaas programme. Ehsaas is a comprehensive and multifaceted programme with 115 policies under four pillars. These include addressing elite capture and making the government system work to create equality; safety nets for disadvantaged segments of the population; jobs and livelihoods; and human capital development. Ehsaas is an inter-sectoral programme to be implemented by 26 federal agencies, four provinces and special areas. Dr Sania briefed the prime minister on the timelines to implement those Ehsaas projects and policies for which the Division of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety and its attached departments had responsibility. She also gave details about the demand-side shock-oriented safety net. In addition, details and timelines of the graduation and interest-free loans programme and the new solutions challenge policy for lagging districts were also discussed. Dr Sania also briefed the prime minister on a nutrition initiative to address malnutrition in all its forms, the new socio-economic registry which was being executed by the BISP, the Ehsaas undergraduate student scholarship initiative and plans in the pipeline to extend the education conditional cash transfers for lagging districts. She informed the premier that in order to protect and ensure social security net to workers in the informal sector, several weekly meetings of labour expert working group had been held. Briefing was also given on the timeline of policy formulation. Details were shared about the plans to revitalise Trust for Voluntary Organisations and to make its governance effective and transparent so that the organisation could be used to upscale successful models in the non-governmental sector. Sex education KIE MAAS WATERLOO -- Planned Parenthood is suing the state for taking funding away from them to teach sex education in our schools. That doesnt make one bit of sense. Why should the state be obligated to have them teach our kids about sex regardless of how they teach it? But when there is a conflict of interest (like having abortion providers teaching our kids how not to get pregnant), it is insane that we would allow them into the schools, never mind give them money. Contrary to Planned Parenthood talking points, pregnancy rates do not go down when you teach kids they can have sex as long as they use birth control. Especially when PP sells the cheapest birth control on the market, which increases abortion rates, and the job of a PP sexuality educator is to sell abortions, to come between a parent and their child. Sexually transmitted diseases do not go down either. Equality Act GARY MOSER WATERLOO -- Ever wonder what is really proposed in many congressional bills with innocent sounding names? In looking at HR5 (Equality Act) bill which passed the House on May 17 and now goes to the Senate, I learned the following: This elevates sexual orientation and gender identity (LGBT) to the same protected category as racial equality. It elevates LGBTQ over religious free exercise, free speech and private rights. Public school curriculum will indoctrinate to LGBTQ ideology and adopt pro-LGBTQ policies (including the use of pronouns and male-female shared facilities. Warnings about this are coming not only from the usual sources, but also from two liberal sources. The chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Jerry Nadler, a Democrat, confirmed the First Amendment on religious liberties would be assaulted. Julia Beck, a self-described radical lesbian feminist and the former law and policy co-chair of Baltimore's LGBTQ Commission, also testified before the committee that this "would eliminate women and girls as a coherent legal category worth of civil rights protections." This bill pushes LGBTQ agenda on all people and targets Christianity in every area of life. I pray we never allow passage of a law the strips Constitutional rights from the people. Delightful food CATHERINE S. EDWARDS CEDAR FALLS -- To those who love the many regional cuisines of India; Incredible India, Waterloo, is the place to go. I have eaten at many stateside Indian restaurants from the Dallas Metroplex to Minneapolis and find this food to be brilliant. The delectable flavors, which arrive in successive waves across the palate, are deep and complex. The mouth feel, from crispy samosas to smooth curries (sauces), provides a tactile adventure. The buffet is an opportunity to sample across the menu. The hostess, Sonia, is a passionate and knowledgeable jewel. The owner/chef, Dharamveer Lali Bharti, is a culinary genius. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 2 Around Midland and around the world, loving and leading all people to deeper life in Jesus Christ. ROME Archaeologists excavating an area near the Roman Forum and Colosseum have stumbled upon a marble head that may represent the god Dionysus. The head appears to date to the early part of the Empire making it about 2,000 years old. The announcement of the discovery came from the deputy mayor of Rome, Luca Bergamo, and was quickly followed by tweets from the Archeological park of the Colosseum. The head was found on via Alessandrina, a street that lies slightly northeast of the Roman Forum and part of the archeological excavation of Il Campidoglio, the Capitoline Hill that lies between the Imperial Forum and Campus Martius, one of the Seven hills of Rome. The head has been temporarily been given the name testa Alessandrina, head from Alessandrina. No other parts of the statue have been found but the head alone is garnering tremendous attention. The fine, white marble head with long and wavy hair was originally identified as a female of unknown origin. The seemingly feminine face of the statue was described as graceful, clear and smooth with the mouth half-opened. The eyes were hollow, likely having been filled with a substance to give the head life-like features. Claudio Parisi Presicce, the Director of the Capitoline Museums that oversaw the excavation, said, The hollow eyes, which were probably filled with glass or precious stones, date it to the first centuries of the Roman Empire. The head also had two corymbs of ivy, inflorescent stalks over the hair. The deputy mayor though cautioned in his announcement that archeologists were reviewing evidence and that, Accurate information will be coming soon. He added that the new discovery was, a warm welcome to the cultural heritage of Rome. Presicce, clearly excited about the discovery, added that there were possibly traces of color suggesting how the status may have looked 20 centuries ago. He said, The surface is not completely visible because we havent yet given it a thorough clean. We think that there could still be traces of the original color conserved in the band around the hair. When it was found, the head was embedded in a buried wall. The depth of the excavation suggested the wall was of Medieval origin and the head had been re-used as building material, a common occurrence during the Middle Ages. But the story of the head quickly changed. Just hours after the announcement of the discovery on Friday, Presicce made some additional observations. After a careful review of the inflorescence found in the hair, he added that the manner of its representation was typical of Dionysus. The head was decorated with a, typically Dionysian flower, the corymb, and ivy. He added that there was good expert consensus that the head was indeed that of Dionysus. Dionysus is well-known as the god of wine and wine-making. But he is also a fertility god that creates ritual madness and religious ecstasy. In some cults, he was the god of epiphanies and revelations. His veneration involves ecstatic dance; and the god himself often empowers and possesses his followers. Dionysus may have been worshipped by Mycenean Greeks as early as 3,500 years ago. He is known in Greek as Bacchus and the ecstasy he creates is called bakkheia. Dionysius was likely brought to Rome through the Greek culture of Sicily or possibly through the Greek-influenced culture of Etruscan Etruria in central Italy. Whatever the path, he was revered in Rome as the patron of the citizen-commoners, called the Plebeians. The Bacchic mysteries were attested by Livy who called Dionysian worship as consisting of a secretive, transgressive, and even counter-revolutionary culture. The Roman Senate attempted to suppress Dionysian worship to no avail. He was subsequently embraced into the Roman pantheon and his veneration officially added to Liberalia, the festival commemorating the coming of age of boys and the springtime promise of fertile and growing seeds. The head has been moved to museum storage for protection and where it awaits further analysis. The excavation has been time-consuming and costly. It began in 2014 after the Republic of Azerbaijan donated 1 million to fund the archeological work following an agreement with the city of Rome. The excavation was filmed and is visible on YouTube. The announcement of the discovery was met with excitement by Roman citizens. One person commented, And to think that before today, the last time this sculpture was touched, in all probability, was centuries and centuries ago, if not even 2000 years ago. How magnificent, a moment of infinite and timeless fascination. Even the mayor was stunned. Rome surprises and exhilarates us daily, said Virginia Raggi, Mayor of Rome. This morning the archeologists of the Capitoline Superintendency for Cultural Heritage, whom I wish to thank, found on via Alessandrina a head of an Imperial Age white marble status in excellent condition. 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Co. has completed this tiny hotel wrapped by a shimmering facade addressing to Thailand's local culture. Called Little Shelter Hotel, the 890-square-metre hotel is located in Chiang Mai where its old cityscape and vernacular architecture are characterized by wood structure with shingle pitched roof. The most attracting feature of the hotel is its facade made of polycarbonate and wooden shingles that create a glittering effect to this tiny building. Thanks to its craftsmanship and well-thought feature, the hotel can immediately be perceived from far away. The architects are inspired by traditional hip roofs for the hotel roof as a homage to the local architecture that has a little reinterpretation with an asymmetrical form blending naturally with the surrounding tree top silhouette. The west side of the roof is partially carved out to become a roof deck for guests to enjoy the panoramic river view at sunset. The architects used the traditional material of Thailand to attribute to the local culture - and the material was: the wood shingles. "The most interesting aspect of the material is in its system that has been well developed for hundreds of years. Small units of wood shingles are laid out like fish scales to become a watertight architectural plane," said Department of Architecture Co. "The design has explored a possibility to fuse new materials into the system to create a contemporary architectural surface yet deeply rooted in tradition.The wood shingles are used on the roof and side walls." "On the river facade, polycarbonate sheets are cut into the same size as wood shingles and constructed to become the architectural translucent facade," they added. On the entrance facade, the upper portion is composed of solid wood shingles and they trickle down to mixed with polycarbonate shingles on the lower part. Although working with the traditional shingle system, the uninterrupted translucency surface is achieved by a special detail design using translucent studs and special transparent screws. The facade is glittering in the sun as the light touches different material grains, from the solid wood shingles to the different translucency levels of the polycarbonate shingles. The light passes through the facade and creates varying interior atmosphere at different time with the changing light condition of the sky. At night with the light from the inside, the building becomes a lantern glowing on the riverbank. The structure seems less of a building but becomes more like a piece of craftwork. The public area interior complements the exterior simplicity, gives a gallery-like feeling that accommodates the site-specific installations inspired by the famous BohSrang umbrella, and creates delicate and dramatic silhouettes expressing contemporary interpretation of the local handicraft. The guest room interior is a place to rediscover Chiang Mai in a new angle, literally. Images of important places and events of Chiang Mai such as its ancient city wall, floating lantern festival, pine forest, Pah-Chor canyon, etc., are placed on the entire ceiling. The images infinitely reflected onto the two long walls cladded with small mirror shingles, giving a surreal borderless sensation. The images are all different for each of the fourteen guest rooms. Each emanates different and unique feeling: tranquil, playful, cultured, mysterious, etc. suitable for any preferences of the guests. "Little Shelter is not only a place to sleep. It is an introduction of the past, the present, and probably the future of Chiang Mai to its visitors," explained the architects. Project facts Architect: Department of Architecture Co. Location: Chang Wat Chiang Mai, Thailand Lead architects: Amata Luphaiboon, Twitee Vajrabhaya Teparkum Design team: Adhithep Leewananthawet, Pitchaya Poonsin, Tanadeth Mahapolsirikun, Supavit Junsompitsiri, Yada Pianpanit, Apisara Lertrattanakit Area: 890.0 m2 Year: 2019 All images W Workspace Company Limited > via Department of Architecture Co. Welcome Guest! You Are Here: Sam Haselby in aeon: The first words to pass between Europeans and Americans (one-sided and confusing as they must have been) were in the sacred language of Islam. Christopher Columbus had hoped to sail to Asia and had prepared to communicate at its great courts in one of the major languages of Eurasian commerce. So when Columbuss interpreter, a Spanish Jew, spoke to the Taino of Hispaniola, he did so in Arabic. Not just the language of Islam, but the religion itself likely arrived in America in 1492, more than 20 years before Martin Luther nailed his theses to the door, igniting the Protestant reformation. Moors African and Arab Muslims had conquered much of the Iberian peninsula in 711, establishing a Muslim culture that lasted nearly eight centuries. By early 1492, the Spanish monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella completed the Reconquista, defeating the last of the Muslim kingdoms, Granada. By the end of the century, the Inquisition, which had begun a century earlier, had coerced between 300,000 and 800,000 Muslims (and probably at least 70,000 Jews) to convert to Christianity. Spanish Catholics often suspected these Moriscos or conversos of practising Islam (or Judaism) in secret, and the Inquisition pursued and persecuted them. Some, almost certainly, sailed in Columbuss crew, carrying Islam in their hearts and minds. Eight centuries of Muslim rule left a deep cultural legacy on Spain, one evident in clear and sometimes surprising ways during the Spanish conquest of the Americas. Bernal Diaz del Castillo, the chronicler of Hernan Cortess conquest of Meso-America, admired the costumes of native women dancers by writing muy bien vestidas a su manera y que parecian moriscas, or very well-dressed in their own way, and seemed like Moorish women. The Spanish routinely used mezquita (Spanish for mosque) to refer to Native American religious sites. Travelling through Anahuac (todays Texas and Mexico), Cortes reported that he saw more than 400 mosques. Islam served as a kind of blueprint or algorithm for the Spanish in the New World. As they encountered people and things new to them, they turned to Islam to try to understand what they were seeing, what was happening. Even the name California might have some Arabic lineage. The Spanish gave the name, in 1535, taking it from The Deeds of Esplandian (1510), a romance novel popular with the conquistadores. The novel features a rich island California ruled by black Amazonians and their queen Calafia. The Deeds of Esplandian had been published in Seville, a city that had for centuries been part of the Umayyad caliphate (caliph, Calafia, California). More here. Najwa al-Qattan at Public Books: In the days leading up to the Muslim holiday of the Feast of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) in October 2013, several Syrian clerics issued a fatwa (a religious opinion or responsum) allowingin several besieged and starved suburbs of Damascusthe consumption of cats, dogs, and donkeys killed in bombings. The fatwa, publicly announced from mosques and uploaded on YouTube, came in the context of war- and siege-induced food scarcities and starvation. It was not the first; over the previous year, similar fatwas had been issued in other besieged areas, including Aleppo, Homs, and Yarmouk, the largest Palestinian refugee camp in Syria. But there was poignancy to the timing of this fatwa: on this holiest of Muslim eids, believers all over the world celebrate the end of the Hajj, in part by the slaughtering of a sacrificial animal (and sharing its meat with the needy) in homage to the Prophet Abraham. But in this war, as was the case a century ago, it is the Syrian civilians that are being sacrificed. more here. "I was born and raised in the inner-city ghetto of Detroit. I had never seen an African American doctor. When I said I wanted to be a doctor at 4 years old, my mother said, 'OK, because you can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens you.' It was from our faith that she encouraged us," she said. Two years earlier, Garmon-Brown's father had died from encephalitis. "I knew that there was something about this God that my mom relied on that would see me through. From a little girl, I had faith. I wanted to be a doctor to save all daddies." Garmon-Brown, now 64, earned a bachelors degree in biology from North Carolina Central University in Durham and her medical degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine. She was the first African American woman to complete a family medicine residency at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, and she's been blazing trails ever since. In her more than 35-year career, Garmon-Brown has been a practicing physician, leader of health care systems, community volunteer and medical missionary in Kenya, Uganda and other countries. Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic/Getty Images Theater, film, TV actress Ann Dowd, 63, has conquered them all. Yet after she switched from undergrad premed studies to get an MFA at DePauls Goodman School of Drama, it wasn't until her mid-50s that critics and audiences started to give her serious attention: back-to-back Emmy nominations (and one win) for her role as scary Aunt Lydia in The Handmaid's Tale (whose third season starts June 5 on Hulu). Dowd told AARP about her later-in-life success, her tales of Law & Order and her summer travels. By the book. I read The Handmaid's Tale in college and then again before the series. It stuck with me, and it scared me slightly. There was something about it you couldn't dismiss as sci-fi, and that was alarming to me. As an actor, your job is to jump into the make-believe and make it real. But at end of the day, nobody is missing an eye or a finger. You go home with the freedoms we are living with. Handmaid's massive success. Boy, you can only hope for such things to occur in one's life. I knew it was very good, but whether it would catch on it's not the easiest show to watch. It's just too grim. It is very encouraging to be a part of something like that. Not only something that's beautifully done but relevant, that affects people in a way that they are going to put on red dresses, they're going to protest. That's huge and powerful. Learning about Lydia. It's wonderful to feel close to a character, that you know her and are able to move forward with her. One of the episodes this season was Lydia's backstory. I cannot tell you how gratifying it was to shoot. It kind of broke my heart to do it, but in the best sense. Her career backup plan. No backup plan. I was pregnant at 35 with my first child, working at a pet shop how was it I was not panicking? I waited on tables a million times, worked at the pet shop, whatever it took. And it never occurred to me that You better get another plan going on because you're 35. I just never allowed myself to dwell there. Ever. I had times where I got drawn into the depression of Oh my God. But then I thought, "You got to move out of this, girl, because this was not helpful." It was just that kind of unshakable faith that I was doing what I was meant to do. Mike Miller PTA earns national school of excellence certification The local PTA for Mike Miller Elementary School sought and received school of excellence certification. A national recognition given to 330 schools. ASPEN, Colo. A ruling has complicated prosecutors efforts in two Colorado arson cases. Prosecutors accuse Allison Marcus and Richard Miller of knowingly or recklessly starting a wildfire that burned almost 20 square miles (50 square kilometers) and destroyed three homes outside Basalt in 2018. The two had been shooting tracer rounds at a gun range. Prosecutors say the rounds started the fire and a sign at the gun range said tracer rounds were prohibited. But District Judge Paul Dunkelman has ruled that the sign cant be used as evidence. Marcus attorneys say there is no evidence Marcus ever saw the sign and its small letters prohibiting the use of tracer ammunition. The Aspen Daily News reports prosecutors seek to put the case on hold while they appeal to the Colorado Supreme Court. ___ Information from: Aspen Daily News, http://www.aspendailynews.com An Office of the Inspector General official said the proposed $382 million budgeted for the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) will be enough to address housing and training issues at the agencys training facilities. John Kelly, acting inspector general, testified before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Oversight, Management, and Accountability hearing May 16. An Inspector General audit recommended significant improvements to FLETC facilities. Kelly said FLETC provides all phases of training to 90 agencies federal, local and tribal at three facilities in the U.S., including a campus in Artesia. That 3,620-acre facility may see $2.1 million for training and tactical awareness infrastructure improvements. The proposed budget includes $19 million to repair dormitories at FLETC headquarters in Glynco, Georgia, which were destroyed by Hurricanes Matthew in 2016 and Irma in 2017, and $21 million for the development of tactical venues across the centers Thomas Walter, director of FLETC, said the centers hold tremendous possibility for the future amid a bid to increase the number of hires to Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol. Seventy thousand students every year attend training at FLETC, Walter said. Walter said federal budget uncertainties do impact the ability to design training for the upcoming year, but that quarterly reviews help alleviate the challenge. Were pretty proud that weve been able to cope, Walter said. We have a lot of different challenges to make sure that we get the training done. A Department of Homeland Security brief on the Fiscal Year 2019 budget noted $382.1 million for the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) to continue training personnel from over 95 law enforcement agencies government-wide, including an increase of $25.7 million over the FY 2018 Presidents Budget for tuition and basic training costs associated with the training of the additional ICE and CBP law enforcement officers. Additionally, $85.6 million will support the construction and infrastructure expansion at FLETC for student housing, classroom, and practical training facilities required to train law enforcement personnel. Hiring surge President Donald Trump recently ordered the hiring of 5,000 border patrol agents and 10,000 Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel. Kelly said that hiring mandate will exacerbate existing funding challenges at the facilities which train federal law enforcement hires. Among the challenges is adequate housing for trainees. On site housing is not always available. In 2017 FLETC had to house 6,400 trainees offsite at over $5 million. In (2018) it housed 9,200 offsite at more than $11 million, Kelly told members of the subcommittee. Some of those trainees were housed up to 74 miles away from training sites. Without the additional personnel, FLETC is having a difficult time making sure it provides realistic training opportunities to students, Kelly said. In addition, design and construction of the recommended improvements to training infrastructure and housing may take more than a year to complete. Improved training venues were part of the IGs audit recommendations, specifically at the Artesia facility where training facilities do no align with training curriculum. USBP faces challenges with training venues as they exist at FLETC in Artesia, NM. According to USBP officials, USBP revised its training curriculum based on current research. In doing so, USBP identified areas to enhance training and emphasize performance-based scenarios. USBP also conceptualized improved training venues to align with its revamped curriculum. However, because of lack of funding, CBP has not been able to construct most of the required venues to incorporate curriculum revisions. As a result, USBP Academy instructors stated that they conduct training using workarounds that lack performance-based realistic settings, the report read. Training Walters said it takes a year to develop an instructor, and that investment pays off if that instructor is employed for up to five years. Kelly worried that turnover could lead to training degradation and inconsistency in the training curriculum, citing the nearly double cost of using temporary duty instructors. Rep. Glen Clay Higgins, of Louisianas 3rd congressional district, said trainers at FLETC should be empowered with the flexibility to make decisions about training and curriculum. He cited the decision to decommission the use of a warehouse in Artesia for training as a result of the audit, because of suspected infrastructure damage resulting from a vehicle crashing into the building in 2009. The training facility was put into use in 2016. We could have done better in deciding to use that warehouse. We didnt realize it had some structural damage, Walters said, adding that he believes his trainers have the flexibility needed to get the job done. The development of a tactical medical training program at FLETC was also proposed. The program was implemented in Texas by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Captain Greg Davis, DPS Academy training coordinator, said the Texas program has trained 3,000 commissioned personnel since 2015 and shows great success. Davis added that future programming at FLETC in that area as well as de-escalation training would greater serve the agencys local partners. Chair of the subcommittee, Xochitl Torres Small, D.N.M. questioned whether adjustments to training curriculum for USBP and ICE were being made to reflect the shift of migrant detentions from single males to family units and unaccompanied children. Walter said FLETCs partner agencies identify needs scenario training in this case and it responds with facilities and curriculum. Torres Smalls district includes the Artesia facility. Jessica Onsurez can be reached at 575-628-5531, jonsurez@currentargus.com or @JussGREAT 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. Rep. Duncan Hunter, R-Calif., told a town hall audience Saturday that he took a picture of himself with a dead combatant during his military service, according to local media outlets a potential violation of the United States rules of warfare. Hunter, a Marine Corps veteran, made the remarks while speaking about the case of Eddie Gallagher, the Navy SEAL chief who is accused of killing an Islamic State prisoner under his care. Gallagher, who has pleaded not guilty, also took pictures next to the slain man, according to news reports. Eddie did one bad thing that Im guilty of, too taking a picture of the body and saying something stupid, Hunter said at the meeting, about border issues in the Southern California town of Ramona, according to the Times of San Diego. Hunter, who served two tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan when he was on active duty (he later was deployed to Afghanistan as a reservist), said he had taken pictures just like that when I was overseas, according to the Times. Hunter said he did share the images. The San Diego Union-Tribune also reported that Hunter had made the remarks. The town hall was mostly focused on border security issues. According to the Department of Defenses Law of War Manual, enemy military dead must be treated with the same respect as would be afforded to, or expected for, friendly military dead. The respectful treatment of the dead is one of the oldest rules in the law of war, the manual reads. Enemy military dead must be protected from disrespectful or degrading acts . . . posing with bodies for photographs or leaving a calling card on a body are also inconsistent with the respectful treatment of the dead. Hunter did not respond to a request for comment sent to two staffers. The Department of Defense did not respond to a request for comment. Hunter and his wife, Margaret Hunter, were charged last year by federal authorities in connection with using $250,000 in campaign funds to pay for family vacations and other personal expenses. Both have pleaded not guilty; the trial is set to begin later this year, according to The Associated Press. The discussion about military treatment of foreign combatants has taken on an increased urgency in recent weeks, after President Donald Trump pardoned Michael Behenna, a former Army lieutenant who served five years in prison for the 2008 murder of an Iraqi citizen. Gallaghers trial is scheduled to begin in early June amid speculation that Trump is considering clemency for him as well as other service members who have been accused or convicted of crimes. Trump tweeted approvingly of Gallagher in March, announcing that he would be more amenable to a less restrictive confinement as Gallagher awaited trial, and saying it was in honor of his past service to our Country. Hunter has argued in support of potential clemency for Gallagher, arguing that prosecutors were out to get him to advance their careers. Unfortunately, Gallagher now joins Green Beret Matt Golsteyn, Navy SEAL Keith Barry and Army Lt. Clint Lorance as glaring examples of what happens when military prosecutors become more obsessed with career advancement and sensational headlines than executing the rule of law, Hunter wrote in an opinion piece for USA Today last week. Due to the Navys misconduct, Gallagher cannot expect to receive even a semblance of a fair trial. A pardon by Trump is fully warranted. Hunter declined to comment about his own pending court case when asked by reporters before the meeting, the Union-Tribune reported. The Washington Post Ian Shapira contributed to this report. Have you heard the saying, You dont have to brush your teeth just the ones you want to keep? It turns out that a healthy mouth means more than just having good teeth. In fact, it is far more critical to overall well-being than generally believed. The College of Nursing, the Dental Residency Program and the Center for Development and Disability at the University of New Mexico are working together to integrate oral health into the care of pregnant women and newborns. This is made possible through grant funding from the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration. Christine Cogil, D.N.P., R.N., an assistant professor, primary care oral health expert and lead trainer, and Barbara Overman, Ph.D., C.N.M., associate professor and project director manager on the grant, have been working with the Navajo Department of Health to train all of the community health representatives on the Navajo Nation. They have traveled to Crownpoint, Gallup and Farmington, as well as Window Rock, Flagstaff and Chinle, Ariz., working with health representatives who provide education, services and advocacy in the home. Preventive dental health is low-cost, easy and within peoples control and it has a real impact on family health, Overman says. I enjoy the energy and engagement of first-line health workers who are reaching people and making change for the better. Medical and nursing professionals typically are taught very little about dental health, even though research has shown that gum and tooth infections can have serious health consequences. Some of the more vulnerable populations for potential problems are pregnant women and their unborn children. Cavities and gum disease can seriously affect the health of pregnant mothers, causing complications they can pass along to their babies that could potentially last throughout childhood. Simple preventive measures can make a significant impact on the outcome of pregnancy, Cogil says. These create positive health outcomes for infants and children. Each year in the United States, more than 160,000 people become nurses. One of them will report for work next month at a Virginia hospital. A 15-year Air Force veteran, Kathy Wales stopped working in 2009 when her two young sons were diagnosed with a rare disease. She lost both in the years that followed one to the illness, the other to suicide. Wales will perform the same tasks as her fellow nurses, but she took a different path to wearing scrubs. Shes building a new career by working through grief, helping patients with their mental health and honoring the lives of her children. The biggest thing Ive learned is that you have no idea what someones going through when you see them walking down the street. You just have no idea, she said. And I really would like to try to be able to make a difference for people like us. Kathy, 46, met her husband, Mike, in 1995 while they were stationed at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. They married the next year and bounced around the country, working as intelligence analysts before landing in Bristow, Virginia, about 40 miles outside Washington. One night in 2009, her younger son, 9-year-old Alex, woke up disoriented, tripping over a metal toy truck and cutting his chin. A few stitches, Kathy thought, and that would be the end of it. Alex started behaving strangely at the hospital. He wouldnt sit in a wheelchair or allow anyone to touch him. When given a drug to reduce anxiety, he only became more agitated, trying to pull out his IV and pick nonexistent ants off his body. An MRI showed Alex had lesions on his brain and a blood test confirmed a diagnosis of adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). The degenerative disease, which often strikes boys between ages 4 and 10, causes the brains nerve cells to lose their myelin sheath, leading to an inability to speak, see and hear. Death often follows within five years of a diagnosis. Your best hope is buy a video camera and enjoy your time, Kathy said doctors told her. You might have six months. No parent ever should sit still for that, Mike said. We started looking for second opinions. It was the start of a seven-year quest to forestall an inevitable outcome that would give Kathy a painful crash course in nursing. The first stop was the University of Minnesota, where Kathy learned Alex could get a bone-marrow transplant that might halt the diseases progress. One candidate for the donation was Zach Wales, Alexs older brother but, in a macabre twist, testing showed Zach also had ALD. Kathy said the diagnosis came as a complete shock. Zachs ALD could become active at any time. Thats exactly what the doctors said would happen, Kathy said. And there was no way to tell how or when. Kathy stayed by Alexs side as another donor was found and the bone marrow transplant was performed a horrible process, Kathy said. Alex endured daily chemotherapy for three weeks. He was nauseous, unable to walk and stricken with hives. The treatment did nothing to halt Alexs slow decline. When overnight nurse Saffie Kamara started to work in the familys home in 2011, he was nearly blind and had a feeding tube. Alex could speak and attend church and school, but his speech was deteriorating. Still, he charmed Kamara, then a 19-year-old nursing school graduate who worked with the family for more than five years. She would field text messages from girls at Alexs school and replied as he dictated. After awhile, I kind of tossed my nurse hat out of the window, Kamara said. I became a family member. Kamara found herself a vital part of the mini-hospital built into the Waleses home. It contained a pulse oximeter machine, an oxygen concentrator, a nebulizer, a ventilator and a host of other devices. The gear to keep Alex alive came with a cost. Kathy struggled for three years to secure Medicaid and battled insurers over payments. She searched for teenage-size diapers Alex couldnt fit in children or adult diapers and bought a custom wheelchair part by part, only to learn her insurance company wouldnt reimburse her for the wheels. You dont get a case manager when you have a rare disease, she said. You have to learn everything yourself. There is no one to teach you. Not every family she worked for was as determined, Kamara said. I could pick up that it was different, she said. It was more than a mothers love. Lt. Gen. VeraLinn Dash Jamieson, the Air Forces deputy chief of staff for intelligence who has known Kathy for more than 20 years, said the familys home was a regular spot for parties and backyard barbecues. She said Alex was always included in activities despite his illness. One of the most amazing things during Alexs deterioration of health was Kathys ability to be the mom that created the house that every kid in the neighborhood every kid in the school wanted to be at, Jamieson said. It was a lighthouse. Still, the end was approaching. Alexs speech worsened to the point where his mother sometimes couldnt understand him and, by summer 2016, he was starting to give up, Kamara said. He died in September that year. He was 16 years old. We knew going in that there was no grand outcome at the end of this road, Mike Wales said. We were fighting to keep him around to let him have a quality of life that was as good as we could give him. It went from six months to him being here with us for seven more years. He added, Kathy was the rock. After Alexs death, Kathy didnt know what to do. Her son had been her full-time job. Others around her had ideas. You should be a nurse, Kamara told Kathy. You are a nurse. You care for your son. I can see you have this passion. In February 2017, five months after Alexs death, Kathy started an accelerated nursing program at East Coast Polytechnic Institutes campus in Manassas, Virginia. The program packed a lot into 18 months anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pediatrics and nutrition. Kathy thought she could handle it. After all, shed been through the Air Force. Nursing school was harder, she said. And the medical know-how she picked up with Alex didnt provide the advantage she expected. Deep-suctioning inserting a tube through the trachea to clear the lungs was one example. She had done it for Alex many times. Doing it for a grade was different. Its obviously different in school with a plastic mannequin than with your child, she said. Its hard when theres a clinical instructor watching. When its your child sitting there looking at you, its a whole other story. About three months into the program, tragedy struck the family again. At age 20, Zach took his own life. It happened on an otherwise normal day, Kathy said. Zach had come home from his apprenticeship as an electrician. He was going to go out with his girlfriend. He had ordered parts for his pride and joy a big, black Dodge truck and had made an appointment to have a tattoo filled in. Kathy was studying for a test when she got the news. We were just starting to find our new normal, she said. It was the last thing I expected. The family searched for reasons. Zachs brother had died months earlier of a disease that could affect Zach at any time. He had been in counseling, but stopped going when he turned 18, choosing consultations with the familys pastor. Whether his final act was the result of a bad relationship, grief or guilt, the result was the same. Both boys were gone. There are no words to describe what you feel and the just overwhelming loss and grief and hopelessness that you feel, Mike said. You have a future that you think is set. You look out in a year and you see your sons career and family and kids and grandkids and things like that, and the natural progression of things is interrupted, erased completely. After a three-month break from school, Kathy did what she had always done: She came back. On June 3, she will begin as a nurse in the behavioral mental health program at the Novant Health UVA Prince William Medical Center in Manassas. At her pinning ceremony an age-old tradition for new nurses at which they receive pins from veteran nurses Kamara did the honors. Now that Kathy is doing this part of her life, going into her own field, its given her a sense of purpose, she said I think thats going to make her life happier. Jamieson said what her friend has gone through would leave her rolled up in the fetal position. Instead, Kathy is powering forward into another phase of life. You are never too old to learn, grow, have the career that you always wanted, Jamieson said. Kathy really is truly a role model and inspiration to all. Kathys mission is simpler. She is living for her sons. I dont want anyone to ever forget them, she said. They were pretty unforgettable. We can help other people with what we learn. Thats the best way to remember them. Ranked-choice voting may offer an interesting solution to costly run-off elections, but its no panacea, and, in the Journals estimation, its costs outweigh the benefits. Albuquerque city councilors are considering a proposal to adopt the vote-tallying method already in use in Santa Fe. Under the ranked-choice, or instant runoff, system, voters would rank each candidate by preference. In the event that no candidate takes more than 50% of the first-place vote, the last-place candidate is eliminated and the ballots are recounted, including voters first- and second-place choices. The process would continue until a candidate has met the 50% threshold. As to the six-figure cost of runoffs, sure it would be great for a candidate to take 50% off the bat, but democracy is at least as important as the cost of a runoff election. Proponents would also say the necessity of competing for not just first place but second and third rids campaigns of some vitriol and puts the focus on the issues. And while a worthy concern, the bigger issue is Albuquerques extremely low voter turnout. Less than a third of Albuquerques eligible voters put Tim Keller in the Mayors Office. So its hard to see how asking voters to spend even more time on their ballots will help. And it is challenging enough for busy voters to educate themselves on whom they think is the best person for the job now they have to bone up on a backup candidate? Yes, we should insist on issue-focused rhetoric from our candidates and the parties, but trying to legislate positive campaigning is a fools errand. Politicians should bear the responsibility of sharing their values with voters and showing they are capable of leading on behalf of all constituents. Plus, the one voter, one vote is a concept integral to our societys version of democracy. We shouldnt have to abandon something so fundamental in order to convince our would-be leaders to act with integrity. This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers. Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal TIJERAS Its a symbolic home for military families who cant go home anymore. Thats how Circe Olson Woessner describes the Museum of the American Military Family. The museum next to Mollys Bar on Old Route 66 is a place where military brats, spouses and parents can share their joys and heartbreaks of their life journeys from places scattered around the globe theyve called home. Every display in the museum has an aspect of sacrifice that a military family goes through, said Woessner, the museums director. Everything in here is experiential you can open up cabinets and cupboards. There are letter jackets and clothing going back decades. The treasure of the place, which is a model of the inside of a military home, Woessner said, are the firsthand stories that can be found among the special selections library. There are more than 1,000 books, DVDs and other items about, for and by the military and military families. Letters, photos We have letters, documents, telegrams and photos dating back to World War I, she said. Among the offerings: a letter from the Red Cross and a telegram informing a family that a soldier is missing in action during World War I. He actually turned up, Woessner said. They found him. He got separated from his unit and placed in a hospital because he was injured with poison gas. Another family donated photos taken by a soldier during the battle of Okinawa in World War II images showing the harsh realities of war. And at least one of the photos, Woessner said, may be one of the last of legendary war correspondent Ernie Pyle, a former Albuquerque resident who was killed during battle. Among the most moving items on display include art made from military clothing from veterans and military brats who struggled with addiction that comes through the struggles of war or military life. The museum has a room that explores how families cope with post-traumatic stress disorder and disabilities caused by combat. And there are jackets on display in an exhibit dedicated to LGBT people who have served in the military before and after the Dont Ask, Dont Tell era. The jackets, most turned inside out, tell their stories through symbols, words and decorations. Classes and programming The Museum of the American Military Family started as an online effort in 2011 and gradually evolved into the physical presence it is now. Prev 1 of 4 Next Were a working museum, so stuff we have, we are working on, Woessner said. Every day, we get things either sent to us or dropped off. People come back to make sure we got them. She came up with the idea of a museum dedicated to military families when her son, Erik, was serving in a combat zone in Iraq as an Army specialist. Im a military wife. My husbands (retired Army Lt. Col. William Woessner) been in combat, too, she said. I was thinking about what most moms think about: Please bring my kid home. I want him to be safe. And I thought, around the world, military parents are worrying about their kids. And spouses and kids, as well. We have that in common. Generations have done this. She and several friends, who were also federal employees, worked to make it a reality. The museum is divided into sections or galleries dedicated to the different aspects of military life. Military children, spouses A section near the entrance is devoted to military brats. Panels tell their stories of life on military installations through the decades. Toys including teddy bears wearing military hats and military Barbies are on display, along with clothing and other memorabilia. The living room and kitchen are dedicated to the lives of military spouses. Their stories the good and the bad are also told through panels in the area. Forty-one military spouses and bloggers have contributed their stories, Woessner said. Naturalization ceremonies have been held in the living room. There are potholders donated in honor of military moms and spouses, and mugs in the cabinets from various places where families have been stationed. And a POW-MIA table sits in the kitchen. Although memorial tables abound, the reality is there are tables of all sizes that are missing loved ones, fallen people, Woessner said. The Schooling With Uncle Sam room is dedicated to the Defense Departments school system, one of Americas largest, although many of the schools are outside the country. Woessners father, Allen Dale Olson, a retired Defense Department civilian employee, served as a liaison to the school system. He is a museum volunteer. The room contains yearbooks and letter jackets from places like Berlin, Paris, Verdun and Tokyo, along with documentations of stories from educators and students, Olson said. The museum holds classes and programming for the community free of charge. It is holding a free theater camp for kids ages 8 to 14 next month. If you go WHAT: Museum of the American Military Family WHERE: 546B N.M. 333 (Old Route 66), Tijeras, NM 87059 HOURS: 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday-Wednesday, or by appointment. ADMISSION: Free, but donations accepted. WEBSITE: militaryfamilymuseum.org On Monday, just like on so many Memorial Days, Joe Gideon made his way to the New Mexico Veterans Memorial in Southeast Albuquerque. The World War II veteran and former prisoner of war attends the parks annual ceremony every year. And every year, the 93-year-old an Air Force sergeant who spent two months as a POW after having to bail out of a damaged B-24 over Hungary said its the bagpipes that make him misty. There were some British soldiers in a different part of our camp, and they played their bagpipes, Gideon said after Mondays ceremony, holding a small American flag in one hand and his cane in the other. Bagpipe music does something to me. I get choked up. Gideon was among several hundred veterans and other community members who gathered Monday to recognize the men and women who died in uniform, an annual event organized by the United Veterans Council of New Mexico. U.S. Rep. Deb Haaland was among the elected officials who spoke, reflecting on her own upbringing as the daughter of two service members. The Albuquerque congresswoman recalled her familys angst while her dad a 30-year Marine did his tour in Vietnam. He returned, but Haaland asked the community to remember the families of those who did not, and recognized the Gold Star Mothers in attendance. We have with us folks who live every day with the memory of a loved one they have lost in the line of duty parents who raised them, taught them and instilled in them noble values, and daughters and sons who lost a parent on the battlefield, Haaland told the crowd on the bright, warm morning. Though we can never know the degree of loss they endure, we must honor them, not just on Memorial Day, but every day. Keynote speaker Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham credited New Mexico for doing what she called more than its fair share in service of the country. She noted the state Legislatures effort to fund a museum honoring Navajo Code Talkers a push led by state Sen. John Pinto, who served as a Code Talker in World War II and who died last week at 94. The Legislature appropriated $1 million to the project this year, and the governor said the facility would show locals and visitors alike how we led in the battle for freedom. She said there is now a push in Congress to have it designated a national veterans museum. Prior to a recent March decline, American manufacturing had enjoyed a streak of 19 consecutive months of job growth. The current streak had been the longest since the mid-1990s and had seen domestic manufacturers add over a half million jobs since President Trump took office. However, there does seem to be some cause for concern regarding whether the recovery in manufacturing is slowing in terms of job growth. The pace of hiring by these companies has slowed in recent months, and it appears that the administrations trade wars have eroded some confidence within the sector. In the 12 months prior to Februarys reported growth of 1,000 jobs, manufacturing was adding an average of 22,000 jobs per month. The global slowdown and the China trade standoff are certainly taking some of the steam out of the sector, as only 4,000 jobs were added in April, according to the Labor Department. Manufacturing jobs have long been thought of as the ticket to the middle class for many Americans, and while its still an important piece of our economy, it is becoming less and less relevant in the overall economic landscape. The United States has moved from an agricultural society to an industrial society to what is now becoming a largely service-based economy. In fact, the service sector now accounts for over 80 percent of available private-sector employment, and only 10 percent of all private-sector jobs are now in manufacturing, down from 16 percent in 2000 and 25 percent in 1980. Politicians on both sides of the aisle can lament the loss of these high-paying manufacturing jobs to overseas locations and pander to the electorate about throwing out the current trade agreements and starting over, but its important to understand that even companies that choose to move their manufacturing operations back to the U.S. are requiring far fewer workers than they did a generation ago. Even if American companies are somehow incentivized to expand their domestic manufacturing operations, theyll never again hire factory workers at the same rates as in years past. Improvements in technology and automation have largely contributed to the end of the industrial economy as we once knew it. Our governments education and economic policies need to evolve, as well. Instead of just placating those that are calling for hard-nosed trade policies in an attempt to right the growing trade deficit and bring these jobs back, we should focus on the education and re-training of these displaced workers. The conversation should also center around how companies in the service and construction sectors can help fill the void left by the loss of these high-quality manufacturing jobs. Engineering, technology and professional jobs that require a college education, while certainly important, are not the only answer to improving the prospects for our shrinking middle class. Skilled trade jobs will also be vital to an improved economic outlook, and its important that our nations workers have the required education and training to be successful in this new reality. (Brad Crowson is the regional manager for WESST, a nonprofit small business development and training organization dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs in Rio Rancho and throughout New Mexico. For more information, visit wesst.org or call 892-1238.) Ex-penitentiary service director convicted of embezzlement denied parole RIA Novosti, Grigory Sysoev 16:26 28/05/2019 MOSCOW, May 28 (RAPSI) The Central District Court of Kaliningrad on Tuesday dismissed a motion for parole filed by ex-director of the Russian Federal Penitentiary Service (FSIN) Alexander Reimer convicted of embezzlement, according to the information on the courts website. Reimer filed the parole petition in early April. In June 2017, Reimer was sentenced to 8 years in a penal colony for embezzling funds allocated for procurement of ankle bracelets, fined 800,000 rubles (about $12,000), and stripped of his General rank. Ex-deputy of FSIN Nikolay Krivolapov and an ex-director of FSINs Information and Technical Support Center Viktor Opredelyonov received 5 years and 8 months and 6 years in prison respectively. Krivolapov was fined 600,000 rubles ($9,000) while Opredelyonov got a 700,000-ruble fine ($11,000). Lawyers for the defendants asked to repeal or soften the sentences. A lawyer of Reimer said that the Zamoskvorestsky District Court issued a ruling with numerous violations and that it did not study some of the case documents. On August 22, 2018, the Zamoskvoretsky District Court of Moscow recovered over 2.2 billion rubles ($35 million at the current exchange rate) from Reimer and his accomplices convicted of embezzlement. In April 2019, the court lifted the seizure of 1.8 million rubles (about $30,000) belonging to Reimer. The convicts funds were ordered to be paid as a compensation for damage caused. According to investigators, Reimer, Krivolapov and Opredelyonov conspired with businessman Nikolay Martynov. a head of NPF Meta company that was supplying bracelets for prison inmates, to embezzle monetary funds from the Russian state budget. Between 2010 and 2012, Reimer and his accomplices stole money allocated for the purchase of ankle bracelets for persons placed under house arrest. The procurement was pursued at an enormously overvalued price. Damage allegedly caused to the state budget was estimated at no less than 2.7 billion rubles (over $40 million). A case against Martynov was reviewed separately as he fully admitted his guilt in large-scale embezzlement. The businessman cooperated with investigators and announced that he is going to compensate the government with delivery of 7,000 new ankle bracelets. The Observer would like to congratulate and wish the best of luck to the nearly 1,200 students graduating from Rio Rancho Public Schools this year. We would like to recognize the accomplishments of graduates from each of Rio Ranchos high schools; Rio Rancho High School, Cleveland High School, Independence High School, Rio Rancho Cyber Academy and the home-schooled students graduating this year. Graduation season brings a whirlwind of emotions for graduates, their families and the teachers and staff from each school. It is a time of celebration and hope for the future, as well as a time to look back on past trials and successes. Whether students received support from their parents, who guided them in their journey to complete their degree; from their teachers, who provided them with the tools to become well educated; or from friends and family who aided them in achieving their goals, we encourage students to reflect on and thank those who helped them reach the level of success they earned. To the graduates: We hope you made the best of your experiences in high school, and continue to do excellent work in whatever journey life brings you. You might not always know where you are going, but life has a way of working things out and setting you on the best path suited for you. As author H. Jackson Brown Jr.s mother once said, Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didnt do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. Congratulations to the graduating class of 2019. The Rio Rancho Governing Body has adopted a balanced budget that includes a water rate increase and employee pay raises for the next fiscal year. Governing body members approved the fiscal year 2019-20 budget unanimously at their meeting Wednesday at City Hall. The new fiscal year begins July 1. Acting Financial Services Director Bryson Frazier said the budget for the general fund, from which money for most city activities comes, predicts $63 million of revenue and $59 million in expenditures. Transfers to and from other city funds net another $4.3 million for the general fund. The budget leaves an $8.9 million reserve at the end of the fiscal year, he said. Councilor Dave Bency, quoting comparisons compiled by Assistant City Manager Peter Wells, said Albuquerque is 5.7 times bigger than Rio Rancho and has a $642 million general fund, more than 10 times larger than the City of Visions. That is what we mean when we say gross receipts tax leakage, Bency said, referring to revenue from sales taxes. Its going down the hill. Las Cruces population is 5,000-6,000 people larger than Rio Ranchos, but its general fund is $36 million larger, Bency continued. Santa Fe is smaller than the City of Vision by 13,000 people, he said, but it has $43 million more in its general fund. Finally, he said, Farmington is less than half the size of Rio Rancho but has a general fund with $32 million more. This is what we deal with, Bency said. According to city budget information, all employees will get a 2.5 percent pay increase starting July 1. To align public-safety employees pay with each departments career progression plan, the budget includes almost $576,000 for police, $190,000 for firefighters and a little more than $189,000 for dispatchers in addition to current salaries. According to city information, based on tax rates already set, staff is expecting $1.2 million, or 7.5 percent, more in property tax revenue and $1.95 million, or 6.6 percent, more in income from gross receipts taxes. The utility fund for the water and wastewater systems, operated as a separate entity from the general fund, has a budget with $48 million in income, $26.3 million in expenses and $21.9 million in transfers for repaying loans and building infrastructure. The utilities budget includes an increase of 1.75 percent, or 68 cents a month for the average residential customer, in water rates, starting July 1. Wastewater rates arent changing. Earlier in the meeting, the governing body had approved a second and final reading of the water rate increase on a 4-2 vote. Councilors Jim Owen and Jennifer Flor cast the dissenting votes without comment. Mayor Gregg Hull wasnt allowed to vote on the water rate increase because all city councilors were present and there was no tie. However, he said the raise was necessary to cover the costs of running the water and wastewater system. Its not a profitability issue; its a sustainability issue, he said. Utilities Director Jim Chiasson said expenses of running the system, not including construction projects, had increased 9.3 percent over the last three years. The last rate increase was in July 2016. Also, in a separate, unanimous vote, the governing body earmarked $1 million in the budget to reconstruct Southern Boulevard from 15th Street to Baltic Avenue, a section west of Unser Boulevard. Those of you that havent gone down the road, its turning to mush, and we think this is probably a real good use for this (money), Owen said. Hull said any money left over from general obligation bonds after the designated roads were rebuilt would go toward reconstructing more of Southern west of Unser, and he hoped Sandoval County would help fund more work. Governing body members also approved a final reading of an ordinance change that increases from $30 per night to $50 per night the fee levied by municipal court on people arrested by Rio Rancho Police and incarcerated at Sandoval County Detention Center. The county charges the city to house inmates. The decision helps balance the corrections fund in the FY 2020 budget. Other matters In other business, governing body members: Approved a final reading of an ordinance to take out a $3.44 million loan from the New Mexico Finance Authority for acquiring water and sewer lines. Awarded a five-year contract to manage Santa Ana Star Center to Global Spectrum L.P., the company now running the event center. Awarded a $5.85 million contract to AUI Inc. for water system improvements, including building one lift station and replacing another so the city can decommission Wastewater Treatment Plant 1. Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has agreed not to enforce the terms of an unusual settlement of discrimination and claims against the state Department of Public Safety and then-New Mexico State Police Chief Pete Kassetas that required confidentiality until 2023. Both Kassetas and two plaintiffs attorneys lauded the governors decision on Tuesday, which effectively allows all sides to discuss the underlying litigation. However, the amounts paid to the group of DPS and State Police employees who sued or filed claims remain confidential as required by law for six months from the time of settlements late last year. That means the totals would be released in late June or July not four years from now as required in the confidential settlement agreements reached between the plaintiffs and the states Risk Management Division at the end of Gov. Susana Martinezs term. The decision by Lujan Grisham marked another twist in an emerging tawdry story that dates back at least to 2015, when a former State Police officer in the governors security detail who was accused of owing gambling debts received a $200,000 settlement. The settlement from the state came just two months after his attorney wrote a letter to Kassetas and Martinez. A report from KRQE-TV on May 21 contended that the Martinez administration rushed settlements in a more recent spate of claims to keep embarrassing or personal information about Martinez from becoming public. Martinez has denied any involvement in the settlements, according to The Associated Press. The KRQE-TV report put the total amount paid at $1.7 million, but it isnt clear how many claims by DPS or State Police employees are involved. Certain of these settlements included provisions that precluded the plaintiffs from discussing the underlying facts of their cases, which is unusual. The Governors Office simply expressed that the state will not be enforcing the provisions of the settlements that precluded the plaintiffs from discussing the underlying facts. The plaintiffs are free to speak about the underlying facts of their cases, Nora Sackett, a spokeswoman for the governor, told the Journal. Later, Sackett added in an email, Although state statute is subject to different interpretations, we intend to err on the side of transparency. After 180 days from the date the settlements were entered into, we plan to make them available for inspection. Open government groups, the state attorney general and the state Republican Party, among others, were objecting to the four-year secrecy deal and questioning its basis in law. Under state law, settlements are to remain secret for 180 days or the date all statutes of limitation applicable to the claim have run. We thank Governor Lujan Grisham for releasing us from that confidentiality clause and allowing us to speak our truth, Santa Fe attorneys Diane Garrity and Linda Hemphill said in a statement Tuesday. They filed suit against Kassetas and DPS last June on behalf of three State Police supervisors, including a former member of Martinezs State Police security detail, who accused Kassetas in a lawsuit filed last June of blatant, ongoing and systematic discrimination. The plaintiffs, described in the statement as whistleblowers, were former Sgt. Monica Martinez-Jones, former Lt. Julia Armendariz and former Deputy Chief Michael Ryan Suggs. Their lawsuit alleged Kassetas inappropriate behavior included an incident in which he mooned his employees. Another time, he allegedly sent an image of a mans testicles blocking out the sun to a deputy cabinet secretary at DPS. The attorneys sought to be allowed to speak publicly after Kassetas appeared in the May 21 KRQE-TV report, criticizing the fact the claims were settled. The report mentioned a Dec. 21 email Kassetas wrote to Martinez and others in which he said the demands by plaintiffs lawyers constituted extortion an accusation Garrity and Hemphill vehemently disputed. In their media release Tuesday, Garrity and Hemphill said Kassetas statements were inaccurate and violated the confidentiality provisions of our settlement agreement, knowing we could not defend ourselves. Claims brought by at least three other DPS employees, including former deputy cabinet secretary Amy Orlando, were also part of the settled litigation last year. Allegra Carpenter, the attorney for Orlando and the other two plaintiffs, didnt return a Journal request for comment Tuesday. Kassetas, who was hired by Martinez in 2013, told the Journal that he never signed or saw the settlement agreements. Im for releasing everything, Kassetas said. I wanted complete transparency. He said the allegations in the lawsuits and claims are baseless. Stand by allegations Garrity and Hemphill said they stand by the compelling factual allegations contained in our lawsuit. Their lawsuit referred to the states decision to settle with former State Police officer Ruben Maynes, who at one time served on Martinezs security detail. Maynes received a $200,000 settlement from the state in April 2015. Maynes, according to other lawsuits, had a gambling problem and owed Martinez and other State Police officers money they had loaned him to pay off the debts. The settlement agreement prevented Maynes from discussing the details of his claims or his settlement and set a $50,000 liquidated damages assessment for any unauthorized disclosure. Under the settlement, Maynes also agreed to satisfy any outstanding financial obligations to other State Police officers. The lawsuit filed by the three State Police supervisors, alleged, in part that, according to a top-level administrator at DPS who wishes to remain anonymous, it is Kassetas knowledge about the Governors secrets, in general, and the Maynes situation, in particular, that has kept the Governor from allowing DPS to take disciplinary action against him (Kassetas). Rick Riordan is going to make his New Mexico debut on Sept. 27. The author behind the successful Percy Jackson & the Olympians series will bring his Tyrants Tomb tour to the University of New Mexico Student Union ballrooms in partnership with Bookworks. Riordan will read from the fourth book of the Trials of Apollo series. He will be joined on stage by two New Mexico authors published in his Rick Riordan Presents Series J.C. Cervantes and Rebecca Roanhorse. Tickets go on sale at 9 a.m. today at www.bkwrks.com. Tickets are $25 and include a signed hardcover. Riordan is the author of five No. 1 New York Times best-selling middle grade series. More than 97 million of his books are in print in the U.S., and his books have been published in 37 countries. Riordan is also the publisher of an imprint at Disney-Hyperion, Rick Riordan Presents, dedicated to finding other authors of highly entertaining fiction based on world cultures and mythologies. Riordan said on his blog that hes looking forward to eating some New Mexican food. Not only is this the first public event Ive done in Albuquerque and all of New Mexico in well, ever? he quipped on the blog. I will be joined by two phenomenal New Mexico-based writers from the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, J.C. Cervantes and Rebecca Roanhorse! I cant wait for this event. Three authors! Three times the awesome! Somebody better get me some of that excellent New Mexican food while Im in town! MEXICO CITY Mexican authorities have frozen the bank accounts of Emilio Lozoya, the former head of Mexicos state-owned oil company, and those of steel maker Altos Hornos de Mexico. The Financial Intelligence Unit said Monday that there were various transactions with funds that presumably did not come from legal activities and the funds are presumed to have originated in acts of corruption. In a statement, Altos Hornos de Mexico SA called the freezing of its accounts without precedent, arbitrary and in violation of every right. The company said it employs more than 20,000 people and has thousands of suppliers. In a separate statement, AHMSA assured creditors that it would make its debt payments. Lozoya headed state oil company Petroleos Mexicanos under former president Enrique Pena Nieto. Last week the government banned Lozoya from holding public positions for 10 years. Petroleos Mexicanos agreed to purchase fertilizer business Fertinal from AHMSA for $635 million in 2015, when Lozoya headed Pemex. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Tuesday that Pemex overpaid when it purchased the fertilizer plant. Now the government must decide whether to put more money into the plant or bring in a private partner. I would very much like to re-establish fertilizer production, and for us to be self-sufficient, said Lopez Obrador. Lozoya and AHMSA have also been mentioned, but not charged, in corruption scandals involving Brazilian construction giant Odebrecht. Former Odebrecht officials have given evidence to Brazilian prosecutors that implicates Lozoya in the companys bribery scandal. Lozoya has denied receiving bribes. AHMSA paid $3.7 billion in 2014 to a company called Grangemouth, which it said was hired to advise on selection and pricing of equipment and to facilitate purchases of metallurgical coal to produce steel. Grangemouth has been identified as a possible shell company for Odebrecht. Kathmandu, Nepal, May 28, 2019: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is going to visit New Delhi on May 30 to take part in the swearing-in ceremony of his Indian Counterpart Narendra Modi. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has on Monday extended invitation to Prime Minister Oli along with the heads of the government from other Bimstec member states to attend his swearing-in ceremony scheduled for May 30. It is reported that Indian Prime Minister Modi has also invited Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov, who is currently serving as chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the head of the government of Mauritius to take part in the swearing-in ceremony. However, it is reported that such an invitation is not sent yet to the Maldives, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Indian Prime Minister Modi personally extended the invitation to all on Monday. Indian Prime Minister Modi is going to assumes office for the next five years after his party Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) garnered resounding victory in recent elections held for the lower houses (Lok Sabha). It is reported that almost all the invites would reach New Delhi on May 29, just a day ahead of the swearing in ceremony except Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli as the government is scheduled to present the budget for the fiscal year 2019/20 on May 29. During his previous swearing in ceremony in 2014, Indian Prime Minister Modi had also invited heads of the government from all SAARC member states. Then Prime Minister Sushil Koirala, who was also the president of the Nepali Congress, had attended the event. CHICO, Calif. Studying history is one way to explore and understand the past. Action News Now Morning Anchor Julia Yarbough recently met with several students from Chicos Inspire School of the Arts to learn about a recent trip that took them to several states in the south. They experienced first-hand a painful, pivotal part of our countrys history. High School senior Jacky Mendez says in order to go forward in the future, we have to know what happened in the past. She says her physical journey to a dark and not too distant American past is now a motivating factor in taking issues of social justice and quality to heart. She says she and her classmates came back from their trip knowing more and that they feel empowered to play a bigger role in our society. The students took part in what is known as The Sojourn Project. It is a one-week immersion experience hosted by a California-based organization. The trip takes students to the physical locations in several southern states which were the heart of the Civil Rights Movement. Students not only visited museums, monuments and sites but they also met with many who put their lives on the line fighting for equality and justice. Student Riya Massey says at some points during the trip she was brought to tears by the stories she heard and images she saw. She believes a trip such as The Sojourn Project is something all Americans can benefit from. She says people try to say its black history but black history is part of American history because it happened in America. She says these stories are for everybody. The journey included stops across several states, including a visit to Arkansas and meeting a woman who lived history. MinnieJean Brown Trickey was one of nine African-American students who, under threats of violence and messages of hate, integrated Little Rock High School. Now, she speaks with young people on The Sojourn Project about her experience then and how it remains relevant today. She told us to strive for our goals and not let anything bring us down and keep going, says Massey. In Alabama students visited several sites. They traveled to Selma to retrace the famed 1965 Selma to Montgomery march, which was part of a series of civil rights protests. They walked to the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the site of Bloody Sunday when armed State Troopers attacked marchers to prevent their advance. They also attended service at the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, which was the site of the 1963 church bombing. Members of the KKK planted sticks of dynamite in that church; with the explosion killing four little black girls. In Montgomery, The Sojourn Project took students to the National Museum for Peace and Justice, informally known as the lynching museum. They saw the visual reminders of hate and violence. And in Memphis, Tennessee, the students visited the National Civil Rights Museum; home to the Lorraine Motel, where an assassins bullet claimed the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Junior. Educators and those who facilitate The Sojourn Project say they hope the students hands-on experience and brush with history gives them a greater understanding of the effects of social injustice and teaches them empathy. Teacher Marysol De La Torre-Escobedo says she believes students need to see first-had that they are current actors in our history. She says the students see that there are many examples of individuals being disenfranchised and examples of lack of empathy and discrimination throughout history and present day. She says our country has come extremely far but has a long way to go. Ironically the trip almost did not happen. After the Camp Fire, fundraising efforts stalled. But then a family in the Bay Area, whose own daughter had previously taken a Sojourn trip and who was killed in the Oakland ghost ship fire, stepped forward. They said they understood the value of the journey for their daughter and wanted to help. They paid for the Chico students to take the trip. CHICO, Calif. - Two foxes that were burned in the Camp Fire were released back into the wild on Monday at the Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve. The Gold County Wildlife Rescue nursed the male, gray foxes back to health. Sallysue Stein, the founder of the organization, said the foxes' paws and nails were badly burnt. When found, they could only retract their nails partially and in order to survive in the wild they need their utmost nail strength, she said. "Our concern was: Would they regrow new nails? Would they be healthy nails? Strong nails?" she said. "And they need those nails to climb because they spend much of their time up in the trees to escape predators they go for prey in the trees." Stein said the foundation has cared for the foxes since December. Through extensive treatment like antibiotics, the tilapia fish skin treatment, and a climbing test, the foxes were cleared and released back into their natural habitat. CHICO, Calif. - People at the Chico Cemetery came early Memorial Day morning to honor those who gave their lives defending the U.S. One veteran at the ceremony, Dave Tehan, servced four years in the U.S. Marines and two years in the National Guard. "A lot of friendships a lot of bonds made that are forever. We lost a few and just take this day out of the year to remember them," said Tehan when asked about why people should celebrate Memorial Day. He also believes that Memorial Day is a day for people to understand the cost of freedom. Tehan is thankful for not only those who actually served, but also the military families who support all military members. "You know when their loved one is away and if they come home or not. You know it's still, everybody pays a price for what we have.So it's good to take a day out and remember what that price is," he explained. The Board of Directors of Music Broadcast Limited (MBL) has approved the acquisition of Reliance Broadcast Network Limited (RBNL), a Reliance ADA Group company. RBNL houses 92.7 Big FM, one of Indias largest radio networks with 58 stations, which reaches out to 1,200+ towns and 50,000+ villages and over 30 crore Indians across the country. Music Broadcast Limited currently has 39 stations under Radio City and was the first ever FM network in the country. The combined network will have 79 stations, making it the largest radio network in India. Subject to entering into definitive binding agreements, Radio City will initially acquire 24 per cent equity stake of RBNL, the terms of which are being finalised, by way of a preferential allotment for total consideration of Rs 202 crore. Further, on receipt of all regulatory approvals, MBL will acquire the entire stake held by the promoters of RBNL basis an enterprise value of Rs 1,050 crore after making adjustments for variations, if any, on the basis of audited accounts for the year ended March 31, 2019. The entire transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of FY2021. EY India is acting as the Investment Banker to the transaction. PricewaterhouseCoopers is acting as financial and tax due diligence and Khaitan & Co are acting as the legal advisors to MBL. ICICI Securities is acting as financial advisor to MBL. Indias No1 English news channel Republic TV made astounding impact with its Elections reportage on 23rd May witnessing a dramatic spurt leading to 122 Million watch minutes on its digital live stream. The watchtime on digital streaming has crossed the TV viewership on the counting days of Gujarat and Karnataka Election combined. By way of reference, during the Karnataka Election Counting day, the overall English news genre (which is a set 6 TV channels) together achieved 65million watch minutes. Similarly, during Gujarat State Election Counting day the total watch time of English news genre was 45 million minutes across BARC measured TV homes. These figures clearly indicate that the traction on Republic TVs HD OTT is growing exponentially alongside its huge success on traditional TV Broadcast segment. Republic TV started the Election reporting at 6AM and remained ahead in presenting the vote count updates. The extensive network of on-ground reporters at every counting station tracked the trends and sentiments and reported the same in real time. On the counting day Republic TVs HD OTT became a preferred destination for viewers to get accurate election updates in real time, any time anywhere, which resulted in receiving 967.21million requests on CDN with an average of 15.91 Gbps of data consumed across the globe, as reported by Limelight Networks. The top Tier I and II cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Gurgaon notched the traffic and recorded deepest engagement on Republic TVs digital platform. Being the most important and largest event of the year, 2019 Loksabha Elections was the talking point not only in the home country, but it also triggered conversation beyond the borders. Republic TVs digital platform recorded its biggest global audience mainly from USA, UAE, Australia and Canada. The demographic profile of the audiences is young with 60% being under the age of 35. Ashwin Rao, Director, India at Limelight Networks said, "Millions of viewers in India and around the world tuned into Republic TV for the much anticipated 2019 Lok Sabha Elections results. While the traffic spikes were expected, Republic TV successfully managed to provide a seamless and a broadcast quality experience on millions of connected devices to their India and global customer base. As a long time CDN and video delivery partner, Limelight Networks was honoured for the opportunity to support this event for Republic TV. We will continue to scale and innovate on our journey with Republic TV and keep providing high quality services to their online audience. Arnab Goswami, Managing Director & Editor in Chief of Republic Media Network said, News is instantaneous and video news access across devices makes Republic TV the most accessible news brand. Video consumptions have sky-rocketed during the Election season and Republic TV clearly emerges a leader amongst its fellow publishers. My team has worked tirelessly to ensure that we not only have a platform that is user-friendly and delivers news at lightning-fast speeds but also that we're able to reach out to as many curious minds as possible by extending our presence by partnering with the major OTT players of the country. With 60% of our audience being below the age of 35, we are extremely confident that we will start a wave of knowledge that will attract more such inquisitive minds and provoke them to think. In terms of its expansion, the channel has capitalised the growing consumption of news video across mobile devices which has propelled it to reach out to a wider audience that can consume content on the go. The LIVE HD feed of Republic TV is available on several OTT platforms like - Hotstar, Jio TV, Zee5, SonyLIV, Vodafone Play, OLAPlay, Mi TV, Samsung My Galaxy, PayTm, YouTube and JustDial thereby having the capability for delivering rich content to a vast audience. Republic TV has been always ahead in terms of technological innovation to provide its viewers a premium HD feed, with zero buffering time. It has also integrated a server-side ad insertion capability thereby offering advertisers the vehicle to reach these discerning viewers across devices. Taco Bell is all set to make its way into the hearts of cheese lovers across the country. The Mexican inspired quick service restaurant brand announced the launch of its latest product innovation, the Quesalupa. A cheese lovers delight, the Quesalupa is a unique crossover between a QUESADILLA and a CHALUPA. Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, the Quesalupa has a crisp, yet chewy taco shell stuffed with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, topped up with fresh veggies and delicious sauces. The product also introduces a new pulled chicken protein to its consumers in India for the first time. The USP of the product is its CHEESE PULL - the moment consumers break open a Quesalupa, the magnetism of the cheese pull is sure to indulge them. Speaking about the new product, Emili Matsumura, Director of Marketing, Taco Bell Asia Pacific, said, As we continue to grow in number of restaurants and fan base, we stay committed to bringing new innovations to the Indian food scene. We are delighted to introduce the Quesalupa, which is yet another disruptive innovation from Taco Bell India, following the launches of Naked Chicken Taco, Crispy Potaco and Chickstar Wrap. Taco Bell is famous for its craveable Mexican-inspired food at an unbelievable value and so we are confident that consumers will enjoy the Quesalupa. Perfect not just for cheese lovers, but for everyone who enjoys trying new food formats and bold flavors. Building on the consumer proposition of UNINTERRUPTED INDULGENCE, the brand has launched a DIGITAL CAMPAIGN, which is based on the consumer insight that todays generation is always on the go, and yet in the midst of it all craves for some me time where there is no intrusion. For some people this translates into binge-watching their favorite shows, while for others it means reading their favorite book or grooving to their favorite track. Taco Bell understands that everyone has that ONE PULL THEY CANNOT LET GO. Sidharth Shukla, Senior Vice President & Head of Digital, Ogilvy Delhi said, Our task was to introduce the Quesalupa, a unique product made only by Taco Bell. It's not a familiar word, just figuring out its pronunciation can be a mystery, and the fact that it isn't really a taco even though it is shaped as one (and is actually a chalupa). We strategically focused on Quesalupa being a new delight for cheese lovers, who are crazy about cheesy fries or cheese pizzas. #TheCheesyPull idea is so simple and effectively ties in two truths seamlessly: One is that unlike cheesy pizza or fries which are shareables, the Quesalupa is an individualistic product - it occupies both your hands when you break it open for the delight of the cheese pull. The other is that in the age of distractions and short attention spans, millenial value 'me time' and hate any interruptions to that. The thought of the pull you cant let go forms the basis of Taco Bells new digital film, which stars popular web series actors MITHILA PALKAR and DHRUV SEHGAL. The film sees our protagonist Dhruv walking down a street with a Quesalupa in his hands. He splits it open and is completely transfixed by the cheese pull when an old friend, played by Mithila, walks up to him. As is custom, she is all set to lean in to hug her friend but the Quesalupa is in the way. After a split second of confusion, Dhruv extends the Quesalupas signature cheese pull, and raises his arms to allow Mithila to lean in for a very awkward hug. Speaking about the film, Dhruv Sehgal said, Taco Bell is a brand that I have loved for years and I am very excited to be a part of the new campaign to launch Quesalupa in India. The product proposition is absolutely spot on! There are some things you cannot let go off in life. Im a huge foodie, both on and off screen and delicious food is that pull in my life that I cant let go of. Mithila and I had a fabulous time shooting for the campaign and we are confident that people will enjoy watching our take on #TheCheesyPull as much as we enjoyed shooting for it. Echoing his thoughts, Mithila Palkar said, The Quesalupa is the product that cheesy dreams are made of. It is crunchy on the outside, cheesy on the inside and absolutely yummy. The digital film captures the essence of the Quesalupa perfectly. It shows how there are some things in life you absolutely cannot let go of. Taco Bell is one of those things for me! I cant wait for our fans to see how we have brought #TheCheesyPull to life on screen. Agency Credits: Client: Taco Bell India Agency: Ogilvy Delhi Vice-President and Head of Digital: Sidharth Shukla Vice-President: Namita Koshy Planning Director : Karan Rana Group Head Planning: Ankur Khanna Senior Creative Director: Abhishek Gupta Creative Director(Copy): Seby John Associate Creative Director (Art): Debasish Mondal Copy Supervisor: Adyasha Tomar Art Director: Pratim Roy Account Director (Social) and Influencer Management Lead: Gaganpreet Kaur Account Supervisor (Social): Prateek Pandey Visualizer (Social): Kunal Singh Management Supervisor: Aakanksha Zariwala Account Supervisor: Khushboo Dixit Account Supervisor : Ajiteshwar Singh Scrap metal The Dung Quat shipbuilding yard was constructed by the Dung Quat Shipbuilding Industry Company (DQS) with approval of Vinashin at total investment capital of VND 6,198bn. In 2010, after the restructuring of Vinashin, the project and DQS were transferred to Petro Vietnam (PVN). So far, the total disbursed amount is at VND 4,292bn, equivalent to 69.25% of total investment capital, and two phases of the project are still not complete. According to Conclusion 308 of investigators of Ministry of Construction and Conclusion 5155 of investigators of Ministry of Industry and Trade, the construction process has been facing losses of many thousands of billion dongs. DQS target of constructing 1.1mn ton per year had been shattered. The project No.2 to construct a dry-dock yard, which is phase 2 of the project, had total investment capital of VND 619bn. DQS has settled VND 214.5bn to the constructor. The construction is now on hold due to poor conditions at the ship building industry and financial difficulties of DQS. Since 2007, DQS only completed constructing two oil tankers with capacity for about 100,000 ton per tanker. Currently DQS does not have any clients. The target to construct 1.1mn ton per year is on hold and PVN and DQS have to stop constructing the dry-dock yard in project No.2. Similarly, construction of 7000T shaft gate by Quang Trung Mechanic at cost of VND 360bn has been suspended. DQS has been requiring Quang Trung to list the completed items to settle the contract. DQS already made the advance payment of VND 162bn to Quang Trung but this company still asks DQS to compensate more for contract termination. The reason for contract termination is that DQS now does not need the 700T shaft gate as it only supplies maintenance and repair services. The dispute between Quang Trung Mechanic and DQS also relates to the construction of 450T shaft gate, which was also appointed to Quang Trung in 2007 by Vinashin. DQS already paid Quang Trung about VND 157.6bn, equivalent to 80% of the task value. However, Quang Trung has not been transferring the 450T shaft gate to DQS even though the deadline of transferring was over ninety months back. Quang Trung explained the reason of the delay was the dispute related to two construction phases that has not yet been resolved. The other item which created losses for DQS is the wharf project which was constructed to support DQS to import materials. The total investment for this was VND 124bn and DQS already paid VND 33.8bn to the constructor. This wharf was destroyed by a storm in 2009 when it was still under construction. Constech was unable to complete this task. Furthermore, if DQS does not have clients, constructing this wharf is not necessary. Unreasonable loss in EPC contract In November 2005, Vinashin and YMC-Transtech signed an EPC contract to construct the ship building plant, warehouses, inner roads, and construction yard for DQS with total investment capital of USD 99.8bn. Notably, this EPC contract included many unreasonable terms related to tax which required Vinashin to pay a million US dollar compensation to YMC-Transtech. Accordingly, Vinashin paid YMC-Transtech the difference after changes in CNY/VND exchange rate of over 5%. YMC-Transtech is responsible for all tax and fee amount which arises related to EPC contract. 12 years later, in September 2017, YMC-Transtech sent a letter to Ship Building Industry Corporation (SBIC, the later name of Vinashin) to ask for a settlement of USD 16.3mn difference in CNY/VND ratio during period of construction. According to calculation by DQS, the amount that YMC-Transtech has to pay for tax and fee arising from this EPC contract is USD 5.9mn. The amount is calculated upto August 2017. Previously, in December 2016, after recognizing these unreasonable terms in EPC contract, Vinashin had to ask YMC-Transtech to sign an additional memo to revise the EPC contract terms. Based on this memo, YMC-Transtech is only responsible for the tax and fee amount upto USD 500,000. The remaining amount to be paid by Vinashin. To offset, Vinashin will not have to pay the currency exchange difference. Accordingly, Vinashin has to pay USD 5.4mn of tax and fee and another USD 3.98mn to YMC-Transtech, with total amount at USD 9.4mn. Vice versa, YMC-Transtech will not ask Vinashin to pay USD 16.3mn for currency exchange difference. The Conclusion 5155 of investigators of Ministry of Industry and Trade mentioned that the way that Vinashin negotiated to pay tax for YMC-Transtech in the memo is illegal, and caused losses for Vinashin. In fact, if Vinashin continues to follow the terms in the memo that was signed to revise the EPC contract, it will be hard to collect USD 9.4mn that Vinashin has already paid YMC-Transtech. If Vinashin follows the EPC contract, the compensation that Vinashin has to pay will amount to USD 16.3mn. Millions of US dollars were paid for unreasonable items in the EPC contract. DQS and Vinashin are gradually forgetting their dream of a ship building plant. VND 1,360bn was invested in 4 construction projects to realize the dream of a modern ship building industry. However, it now resembles a scrap metal yard. The losses have not stopped at VND 567bn which were paid to the constructors, but many billion dongs will go as compensation for contract termination. Ha Phuong 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. https://www.aish.com/jw/id/Moshav-Modiim-Destroyed-by-Fire.html Devastation strikes an oasis of music, love and joy. On Lag BOmer, a devastating wildfire tore through the central Israel village of Moshav Modiim, destroying nearly all 50 homes. With scorching weather topping 100 degrees and stifling winds, the fire spread at top speed leaving residents with 10 minutes to evacuate with nothing more than the clothes on their backs. Miraculously, everyone escaped safely, sparing this story from a far more ominous outcome. The blaze was among 1,000 fires that spread throughout Israel on Lag BOmer, burning 2,000 acres of forest, primarily in the Ben Shemen Forest adjacent to Moshav Modiim. An investigation by the Israeli fire service revealed that the blaze began in several spots, raising suspicion of arson. (Due to the hot and dry conditions, Moshav residents had refrained from lighting traditional Lag BOmer bonfires.) Amidst the ashes, the Moshavs most important public space was completely unscathed: the synagogue, with its ornate mural, hand-painted by Moshav resident Yitzhak Ben Yehuda. The ornate, hand-painted interior of the Moshav Shul. Irreparable Infrastructure Moshav Mevo Modiim (aka Meor Modiim) was founded in 1975 by Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, the singing rabbi whose soulful melodies are standards in the Jewish world. Many early Moshav residents were 1960s hippies turned on to a Torah-counterculture fusion at Carlebachs "House of Love and Prayer" in San Francisco. Moshav residents, known as the Chevra, are an eclectic group of musicians, artists, organic farmers, perfumers, yoga teachers, poets, and spiritual seekers. Given the Chevras deep sense of community, Israeli officials understood the importance of keeping them together following the evacuation. The Chevra is currently housed in a comfortable dormitory in the village of Yad Binyamin (where Gazas Jewish communities were housed following the evacuation of 2005). Residents tell Aish.com they are well cared-for, even likening it to a hotel with its communal dining hall, organized activities (classes, shows, babysitting), and a huge warehouse of food and supplies. People have donated computers, clothes and toys. Shuttles are provided to the nearby city of Modiin, where shopping and public transportation is plentiful. Meanwhile, a more permanent solution is sought, where the Chevra can live together in a block of 50 homes. As for returning to the Moshav, it is completely uninhabitable. The entire infrastructure electric, sewer, and water lines has been irreparably damaged. In modern Israeli history, neighborhoods have been hit by fire, but never an entire community to this extent. Rebuilding the Moshav likely involves starting from scratch bulldozing the area and replacing it with a new, modern infrastructure. Rebuilding, however, could take years. Flames erupt on the Moshav, fueled by high winds and temperatures topping 100 degrees. Oasis of Love and Joy Jews around the world are mourning the loss of this national treasure where every event was a special experience. Kabbalat Shabbat and Hallel prayers were spiritually-charged with joyous singing. Weddings at the Moshav were a unique outpouring of love, where the chuppah could extend for hours of song and dance. At a Bar Mitzvah service, the community would sit around in a circle and, one by one, share a favorite memory of the bar mitzvah boy. The Chevra was in no rush to be anywhere, but in the moment. At its outset, the Moshav operated as a collective, with residents partnering in enterprises such as tofu and granola factories. Throughout the years, the Moshav preserved its unique flavor of Haight Ashbury meets Chassidic. The twice-yearly Moshav Fair is a sort of mini-Woodstock, with a vast selection of arts, crafts, organic food and popular musicians playing throughout the day. Musicians perform at the twice-annual Moshav Fair, Israels mini-Woodstock. For now, we can only savor the memories of Moshav essentials like Lucianos, the popular pizza restaurant with its huge mural of the Western Wall and endless stream of Carlebach tunes now totally destroyed by fire. Many of the Chevra are baalei teshuva who have traveled a long journey. Heartbreakingly, the fire leaves them with virtually no remnant of a lifetime of precious photos, books, and art. (Various crowdfunding campaigns have been posted here, here, here, and here.) And yet, in typical Moshav style, residents are upbeat and optimistic. One Moshav resident likened it to the feeling after Yom Kippur, knowing you have a clean slate to start all over again. With this tragic fire, a piece of modern Jewish history is gone. But the Jewish people have always been blessed with great idealism, resilience and hope. Drawing on this reservoir, Mevo Modiim promises to be back, better than ever, emerging like a phoenix from the flames. Stay tuned for Moshav 2.0. BEIRUT On the banks of the sour-smelling Beirut River, a group of environmentalists and locals cleared a plot of land for an ambitious project to create a forest in Lebanons capital. The Sin el Fil district's new urban forest is the product of an intensive workshop held from May 24 to 29. A new crowdfunding application called SUGi was launched the same day as the workshop to gather support for the urban forest and other environmental projects. The project was run by the Lebanese architecture and environmental organization TheOtherDada, in collaboration with the India-based social enterprise Afforestt. Established in 2011, Afforestt has assisted in establishing hundreds of self-sustaining forests around the world, using a method created by Japanese biologist Akira Miyawaki. It seeks to make forests into what they would have been had it not been for human interference through planting a wide variety of native flora in a compact space. The most striking thing about these forests is their density, with four trees per square meter and closely packed bushes making the area almost impassible after a few years of growth. However, Shubhendu Sharma, the founder and director of Afforestt, explained to Al-Monitor that the density is remarkable not because it is unnatural, but because of the prevalence of manmade forests, which usually only have one tree per square meter. We have been conditioned, Sharma told Al-Monitor. Most people dont go to a natural forest and its not taught in schools; we dont have a reference. We just assume trees should be a certain distance apart. But even here you have very dense natural forests only one hour outside of Beirut." Sharma stressed that the use of native seeds is the most important aspect of the urban forests the company creates. Sharma said, In the past, the trend was that some guy would go to Australia or to Holland to get a plant, introduce it to your country and everyone would pay premium prices. The local stuff would be ignored as if it were useless." Sharma added that this approach is damaging not only to local nurseries but also to the environment and the population. He pointed to the introduction of paper mulberry and conocarpus trees in major Pakistani cities that released vast amounts of pollen into the air and resulted in outbreaks of asthma and allergies. The urban forest will include some 800 native trees. Sharma told the workshop, Everything we need should be found within 100 kilometers of the site. Afforestts work in Beirut is part of a broader project run by the Lebanese architecture and environmental organization TheOtherDada. This project, called Beirut RiverLESS, seeks to address a focal point of the city's pollution issues, the Beirut River. The Beirut River and the site of Afforest and TheOtherDada's urban forest project, Sin el Fil, is seen in Beirut, Lebanon, May 27, 2019. (Sam Brennan/Al-Monitor) Flowing from the Lebanese mountains to the Mediterranean Sea, the river has a long history of human interaction. As far back as 50 BCE, the Romans built an aqueduct after taking the city from the Phoenicians. Adib Dada, founder of TheOtherDada, said that concrete bank construction in 1968 marked the official death of the river. The situation only got worse as the river became a dumping ground during the 2015 trash crisis, with piles of garbage lining its banks. Dada told Al-Monitor the river had become cut off from the community, leading to massive environmental deterioration. He said, The idea is that when you have a no man's land you can have all these abuses because no one is monitoring it. Slaughterhouses dumped their industrial waste and stormwater drains diverted raw sewage into the river. More absurd examples of this poor treatment include the dumping of red dye into the water by a textile factory, turning the river blood-red. An exotic animal smuggler left his pet crocodile, which evaded capture for some time because with all the scraps and food, he was not able to be baited. The river is a far cry from decades ago, when Armenians from the neighboring Bourj Hammoud district celebrated the water festival Vardarvar on its banks without fear of industrial pollution or crocodile attacks. The urban forest is one step in a long journey to clean the river and bring it back into the community. Afforestts unique style of planting brings with it a spate of benefits for both the river and neighboring communities. The Miyawaki methods mix of natural fertilizes helps roots grow quickly, reaching a meter deep within three months. The strong roots hold the dirt secure while allowing rainwater to seep into the ground instead of washing over the topsoil, a recurring issue for the flood-prone area. Careless pumping of groundwater in Lebanon, where half of the 50,000-80,000 private wells are estimated to be illegal, has resulted in seawater filling the aquifers, making the ground saline. The concrete only added to this problem by stopping fresh water from soaking into the ground. The new forest will be one of the few spots that will help regenerate the fresh groundwater supply. There are also health benefits as the dense forest cleans the serious air pollution in the area, Dada explained. He said, We are not only addressing CO2 but we are also talking about scrubbing pollution and matter in the air. The urban forest is showing the scope of pollution in the Beirut River and the city. Dada said, We are using the river to touch on all these other issues because the problem with the river is huge." GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip The Palestinian Authority (PA) continues to make efforts toward an economic disengagement from Israel. Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh announced May 18 that his government would appoint commercial attaches to join Palestinian embassies in various countries in a bid to develop Palestinian economic ties with countries around the world and promote national products in international markets. Since the establishment of the PA in 1994, the promotion of Palestinian goods around the world has been limited to small individual initiatives to export Palestinian olive oil, cement, shoes and tobacco. In 2017, the Palestinian ambassador to the Netherlands shared that other Palestinian ambassadors in the European Union had begun taking steps to promote Palestinian products abroad. He added that the ambassadors met with the Palestinian national economy minister to discuss which local products are most marketable abroad. Efforts to appoint commercial attaches in Palestinian embassies began in 2005 but did not make much progress until recently. As the PA works to achieve gradual economic disengagement from Israel, it has taken more concrete steps in this direction. In August 2017, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad Malki appointed several commercial attaches who joined embassies in the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, Russia, the UK, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Palestinian government spokesman Ibrahim Melhem explained to Al-Monitor that today only a few Palestinian embassies have commercial attaches and the appointment of new staff will be done in cooperation between the ministries of Economy and Foreign Affairs. Ola Hamouda, the Commercial Staff Unit coordinator at the Palestinian Investment Promotion Agency, told Al-Monitor that only four Palestinian embassies have commercial attaches: those in Germany, the UK, Kuwait and Russia. The organization seeks in cooperation with government agencies to increase the number of attaches in Palestinian embassies during the coming period, Hamouda said. The Palestinian government announced May 20 its 100-day plan to boost the local economy and industrial areas through development projects, in a bid to find solutions to the financial crisis gripping the PA since the United States suspended financial assistance earlier this year. The PA's financial hardships were compounded by its Feb. 17 decision to return the tax money Israel collected on its behalf after Israel froze 500 million shekels ($138 million) from the total owed, equivalent to the amount the PA paid last year to the families of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prisons and of those killed in resistance activities. The Palestinian government seeks to diversify and increase its financial revenues by exporting Palestinian products to markets around the world after having established economic ties with countries whose markets can accommodate Palestinian goods, such as Saudi Arabia, the Netherlands, Jordan and Egypt. Palestinian goods' lack of a barcode is seen as one of the biggest marketing challenges abroad. Azmi Abdul Rahman, the spokesman for the Palestinian National Economy Ministry, told Al-Monitor the ministry has submitted several requests over the years to the GS1 a nonprofit organization that develops and maintains global standards for business communication headquartered in Brussels to obtain an international barcode for Palestinian products. But in 2015, the GS1 rejected the Palestinian request to obtain a barcode, as it refuses to recognize Palestine as a state. Abdul Rahman said having commercial attaches in Palestinian embassies has long been an objective for Palestinians. This decision, however, ought to be preceded by strong steps to boost the Palestinian economy and local products so that it can compete with international products. This is not to mention the need to increase the production in Palestinian companies and factories, he said. He explained that Israels control of the commercial crossings has significantly affected the PAs ability to conduct trade, noting that the majority of Palestinian exports enter the Israeli market. According to the latest statistics published by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics in November 2018, the Palestinian exports in 2017 reached around $1.65 billion, i.e., a 14.9% increase from 2016. Israel is considered the top destination for Palestinian exports estimated at around $878 million. Former Palestinian Prime Minister Rami al-Hamdallah said in November 2018 that Palestinian products had reached 70 countries around the world by the end of 2018, amid expectations that the national industries would contribute to increasing the gross domestic product (GDP) by 14.1% to 24% over the next 10 years. Nasr Abdel Karim, a professor of economics at Birzeit University, told Al-Monitor that the Palestinian governments step to appoint more commercial attaches is an ambitious one, noting that appointing attaches should happen in tandem with other activities and measures to boost local industries. He called upon the Palestinian government to try to focus first on producing local goods with competitive prices to replace the imported alternatives, noting that the Palestinian imports for 2017 amounted to $5 billion as opposed to $1 billion in exports. Mohammad Abu Jiab, editor-in-chief of Al-Eqtesadia newspaper in Gaza, explained to Al-Monitor that the financial crisis gripping the PA has prompted it to find solutions to increase the GDP as much as possible. On the first anniversary of the US unilateral withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Iran's Supreme National Security Council announced that Tehran will partially cease performing its commitments under the accord, in accordance with Articles 26 and 36. The statement continued that further steps may be ahead, unless the European signatories uphold their obligations within 60 days. "We had agreed to cap our uranium enrichment at the 3.6% level. But [after the 60-day deadline] there will be no such limit," President Hassan Rouhani said the same day. "We will also adopt certain measures regarding the heavy water reactor facility in Arak." From the outset, Iran's hard-liners rejected the 2015 nuclear deal, lamenting it as a series of humiliating concessions to the West in exchange for nearly nothing. They repeatedly demanded that Iran quit the agreement. With Rouhani's stance now marking a significant shift toward their argument, hard-liners no longer find themselves isolated. The idea of suspending nuclear commitments, in fact, now dominates Iran's political sphere and has become the mainstream attitude among political elites. "Trump maintains the flawed assumption that continued pressure will force Iran into negotiations and that Iran will stay in the deal no matter the circumstances [for Iran]," said Diako Hosseini, a foreign policy analyst at the Center for Strategic Studies, which is affiliated with Rouhani's office. "But by setting that deadline, the Iranian government disproved Trump's theory. By intensifying the pressure, the United States will be only diminishing its chances of bringing Iran to the negotiating table. That will also trigger a shift by Iran from the status quo. Given the overall history of its strategic decisions, the Islamic Republic is more likely to put war before humiliation." Calls for Iran to fully withdraw from the deal were generally unpopular around the end of Barack Obama's presidency. Back then, many across the political spectrum in Tehran interpreted Obama's outreach for dialogue as a genuine effort for diplomacy. But Trump's negative record and his relentless hostility toward Iran has given impetus to an Iranian departure from the JCPOA, an option that is gaining momentum among the public. Some Iranian observers also propose a deterrent foreign policy within a realist framework. "Given the fact that there are a few in the Trump circle who advocate war on Iran, it will be logical for the Islamic Republic to partly snap back its nuclear program to gain a certain level of deterrent power," said Tehran-based foreign policy analyst Aziz Hatamzadeh. "Since the US government has proven disloyalty to [its commitments under] the JCPOA, and the other signatories are either unwilling or unable to provide Iran with the expected dividends, Tehran will need an effective bargaining chip in the potential negotiations. That bargaining chip could be guaranteed by a resumption of the nuclear [fuel] cycle." Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has repeatedly opposed deterrent strategies based on the nuclear program. Yet Iran's political elites share the opinion that Europe and the world assume that Tehran will stay in the deal at any price, which is probably why Europeans have made little effort to help Iran reap the benefits from the pact. "Instead of demonstrating some accountability regarding its failures in the JCPOA, Europe has been piling pressure on Iran over its missile program and regional policies, because it has understood how the JCPOA matters to Iran in terms of security," Yasser Nouralivand, with the Tehran-based Research Institute of Strategic Studies, told Al-Monitor. According to Nouralivand, the Trump administration is dead wrong to believe that mounting pressure will push Iran toward dialogue. "Negotiations under the current circumstances will be a lose-lose game for Tehran," he warned. Together, such theories have strengthened realist approaches toward the nuclear deal in Iran. Indeed, a brief review of Iran's recent history indicates that authorities never enter any talks under unequal conditions; they will abide by international regimes and agreements, as long as promised benefits continue to be secured. One year after Trumps withdrawal from the JCPOA, Iran's "strategic patience" will likely wear out, with Tehran inching closer to rebooting its nuclear program. But the debate over the level and speed of the reinvigoration of nuclear activities remains unsettled. A group of hard-liners has gone to extremes by proposing that Iran accelerate nuclear fuel cycle activities including uranium enrichment and, if necessary, even pave the way to build nuclear weapons. They consider such steps as tools to pressure the United States and Europe. But the impeding issue is the longstanding fatwa by Iran's supreme leader that forbids atomics arms. "We do not believe in atomic bombs and weapons, and will not pursue such a program, because under our religious principles any use of weapons of mass destruction is forbidden," Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a 2010 speech. Nonetheless, it is undeniable that Iranian society is increasingly disinclined toward diplomacy and dialogue. Back in 2013, Rouhani entered office on a platform of more engagement with the West and a settlement of the nuclear standoff. Today, even the moderate president has come to realize that rapprochement with the current US administration is no longer favored by political elites and many ordinary Iranians. "Anti-Americanism has grown tremendously in Iran," Ghadir Nasri, a professor of political science at Kharazmi University, told Al-Monitor. "The Islamic Republic may find it essential to revive this approach, which is based on realist independence." Should Europe fail to meet Irans conditions within the 60-day period, the Islamic Republic is expected to drop one commitment after another, paving the way for a full departure from the pact. The current Iranian policy could deter further pressure from Washington and force the United States and Europe to recognize Iran's rights in potential future negotiations. But there is another side to it, too. With US pressure ratcheting up unabated, Iran may conclude that military confrontation will better serve its interests than humiliation at the negotiating table. A magnitude 4.4 earthquake struck the Mediterranean on May 15. Tremors were felt in many cities throughout Israel, raising the public panic level. It is a fact that significant earthquakes have struck Israel and the immediate region every 90-100 years, with the last major earthquake occurring in the northern Dead Sea region in July 1927. Over 300 people were killed in the quake, which caused significant damage in Jerusalem, Jericho, Ramle, Lod, Tiberias and Nablus. Statistically, Israel is now closer than ever to another devastating earthquake. In July 2018, the State Comptroller published a report titled National Preparedness for an Earthquake: Buildings and National Infrastructures. According to the report, a major earthquake in Israel is a near certainty, and it would have an enormous impact on various regions throughout the country. Based on the Preparedness Program approved by the government, Israel should be ready to deal with 7,000 dead, 8,600 severely injured, 37,000 lightly injured, 9,500 victims trapped in the ruins of buildings, and 170,000 people left homeless, wrote the State Comptroller. Other scenarios anticipate as many as 20,000 dead and many more Israelis left homeless. According to Efraim Laor, founder of AFRAN - National Research Institute for Disaster Reduction, some 320,000 buildings would be damaged in an earthquake. And I think thats a low estimate, he added. These estimates are based on the fact that most residential buildings in Israel were not constructed to withstand earthquakes. The current standard first went into effect in 1975, and only became compulsory in 1980. There are 80,000 buildings in Israel that were constructed before 1980 and are now in real danger of collapse in the event of an earthquake. Israel is far from prepared for a disaster of this magnitude, professor Eran Feitelson of the Hebrew Universitys Department of Geography told Al-Monitor. Feitelson is a member of a group of researchers that produced in 2018 a comprehensive study of government preparedness for earthquakes. Earthquake readiness consists of three components: before the event, which involves reinforcing existing buildings; during the event, which involves search and rescue; and after the event, which involves rehabilitation and reconstruction, he said. We have a big problem with everything to do with reinforcing and renovating existing buildings. On the other hand, we are in a relatively good state when it comes to rescuing and providing medical treatment to the victims, thanks to the Homefront Command. If there is an earthquake, the biggest catastrophe would take place after the event. The State of Israel has no plan to deal with a scenario in which we have 170,000 people without shelter. We may suppress the idea, but if there is an earthquake we could face a widespread crisis. Similarly, very little has been done to prepare infrastructures for an earthquake. Most public buildings should have been reinforced, but they were not, and most homes in Israel are in danger of collapse in the event of an earthquake. Most Israelis live near geological faults, where powerful earthquakes will certainly occur. Tens of thousands of buildings throughout the country were not planned to withstand tremors like that, seismologist Avi Shapira told Al-Monitor. As the former head of the Inter-ministerial Steering Committee for Earthquake Preparedness, Shapira wrote a detailed report on the matter. What the minor earthquakes we have experienced tell us is that there is an active seismological fault currently undergoing minor shifts. At some point in the future, it will cause major shifts, he said. He noted that there are two focal points for earthquakes in the region: the Mediterranean Sea and the Afro-Syrian Rift. The bigger risk is the Afro-Syrian Rift that stretches from Eilat to Kiryat Shmona, he said. The main concern there is a magnitude 7.5 earthquake. The region is also home to many people, who live in old buildings. One person who is not particularly concerned about these horrifying scenarios is professor Moshe Inbar, an expert on natural disasters at Haifa University. Where did they come up with this number of 7,000 casualties? Why not 70,000? he asked in a conversation with Al-Monitor. If we compare ourselves to California, they had about 10 incidents of 7-plus magnitude over the last few years, yet not one of these incidents claimed more than 100 casualties. Furthermore, it is important to remember that California is 10 times the size of Israel. Chile had an 8.8 magnitude earthquake, and there were only a few hundred casualties there too. And scenarios concerning the destruction of homes are similarly exaggerated and refutable. Inbar also has an interesting explanation for the apocalyptic scenarios offered by his colleagues. My experience as a researcher has shown that if you do not exaggerate your predictions, no one will listen to you. In that case, forget about getting a budget. Politicians need terrifying numbers. Just a few years ago, there was talk of 17,000 casualties in Beit Shean alone. I checked, and what I found was that there werent that many people even living there at the time, he said. Researchers also have a tendency to stick to the most extreme scenario. Italy wanted to jail three geologists for claiming that there would be no earthquake, and there eventually was one. I have yet to hear of anyone going to prison for exaggerating. One government initiative to reinforce buildings is National Initiative Plan 38, which offers entrepreneurs building rights in old residential buildings, provided that they reinforce the structures to withstand earthquakes. The problem is that the plan is not economically viable in the periphery. National Initiative Plan 38 did damage in that it created the false illusion that the problem was being handled, Feitelson noted. Take the town of Beit Shean for example. It sits on the Afro-Syrian Rift, yet I dont know if a single building there was involved in any National Outline Plan project. On the other hand, dozens of projects have already been implemented in much lower risk areas such as Tel Aviv and Ramat Gan, and hundreds more are set to take place there. The former deputy commander of the Homefront Commands National Rescue Unit, Lt. Col. (Res.) Eran Magen, has been involved in rescue missions around the world for over 25 years. He told Al-Monitor, There will be chaos in the first two days after an earthquake. The scenarios speak of thousands of homes destroyed. There are no professional teams capable of handling that quantity. That's why we are trying to train local teams to serve as first responders in most instances. The Ministry of Defense and the Homefront Command has a program in conjunction with Magen to train tenth grade students to participate in light rescue efforts. Its a unique program, unlike anything else in the world. Magen is convinced that because of the high security risk, Israel is better prepared to deal with a major earthquake than many other countries. The Homefront Command is one of the leading earthquake search and rescue groups anywhere in the world, and the Israel Defense Forces [IDF] are continuing to accumulate experience, he noted. I participated personally in at least 10 IDF missions involved in search and rescue efforts around the world. Over the last few years, we have also seen the military share much more information with local authorities and civilian rescue services. This is particularly important, because when push comes to shove, everyone will have to take care of themselves in an emergency. We cant wait for the big army to come rescue us.'' The current coalition talks that are now reaching their end were no different from previous rounds, in the sense that everyone wanted a prestigious portfolio defense, justice or education. The head of the ultra-Orthodox Shas party, Aryeh Deri, was set to maintain his hold on the Interior Ministry, which is close to his heart. The ultra-Orthodox Yahadut HaTorah party demanded to retain its hold on the health portfolio. Moshe Kahlon insisted on keeping the position of finance minister. Acting Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz hoped to be a full-time foreign minister. Miri Regev sought an upgrade from the Ministry of Culture to the Ministry of Public Security. As always, the Ministry of Environmental Protection was at the bottom of the national political league. The current minister, Zeev Elkin, wanted to flee the office, but he crawled back after losing the Jerusalem mayoral race in October 2018. On May 22, due to a combination of the traditional Lag bOmer bonfires and heavy heat, the environmental issue made headlines. Newspapers reported Elkins call to the public to act responsibly and limit the number of bonfires, for the sake of the environment and your health. Deputy Health Minister Yaakov Litzman urged parents to avoid endangering their health and that of their children by smoke, fire or exposure to environmental and health damage. The head of the firefighting services issued a special order to curtail the extent of bonfires, and municipal inspectors increased their presence on the ground. The following day, news reports crowned the campaign a success. Pollution rose only a little over 11%. The Ministry of Environmental Protection was pleased with the rising public awareness of the issue and noted that a decline in pollution was recorded on Lag bOmer in many areas of the country compared to previous years. But what about daily awareness on the part of elected officials of environmental issues in Israel and on our planet? What is the government doing to clean up the air that Israelis breathe? According to a March 28 Globes article by the head of the Green Course environmental activist group, Mor Gilboa, figures indicate that the chances of dying of pollution in Israel are greater than the chances of dying of a rocket strike, terror attack and road accident combined. Gilboa added that some 2,500 Israelis die annually of pollution. Half of those deaths are due to polluting industries, and the other half to transportation-related pollution. Yet the government continues to allow polluting industries to operate in cities such as Haifa and Ashdod. According to official data, only three of the 35 member states of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) were found to have higher concentrations of polluting particles dangerous to human health than Israels as of 2017: Poland, the Czech Republic and Mexico. A May 6 report by the state comptroller attributes these shortcomings to the low fines imposed on polluters for endangering the health of the countrys residents. Most of the violations do not merit administrative or criminal enforcement and are handled, if at all, through regulation. The vast majority of the cases investigated between 2014 and June 2018 (some 77%) were closed without an indictment, and fewer than one-quarter ended in an indictment a 1.7% rate of all the substantive violations that occurred in those years. Energy researcher Amnon Portugali of the Center for Social Justice and Democracy at the Van Leer Institute accuses the government of encouraging energy production powered by natural gas, which is pollution heavy. In a conversation with Al-Monitor, Portugali referred to the annual report by the International Energy Agency, according to which, renewable energy sources, chief among them solar energy, constituted over 65% of new energy production in the world as of 2016. It is clear that the future lies in solar systems combined with energy storage batteries, Portugali said. However, it seems the Ministry of Energy has not heard about it. According to Portugali, bidders for the construction of solar power farms in Israel demand less than 15 agorot (4 cents) per kilowatt-hour for the electricity they would generate, while the global price barely reaches 3 cents per kilowatt-hour. This price gap is strange, considering Israels great technological capacities. Portugali attributes this gap to Israels powerful gas lobby. Either way, the national green energy plan approved in 2010 has evaporated from the government budgets for the coming years. The plan targeted the reduction of some 16 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions by 2020 and was designed to yield profits 15 times higher than the investment. For the sake of comparison, Morocco will produce 42% of its energy from renewable sources by 2020 and Germany is expected to reach a 45% level of renewable energy by 2030. Israel is the only OECD member state that does not set absolute targets to reduce greenhouse emissions and fails to budget this reduction in accordance with the 2015 Paris Agreement. Gidon Bromberg, director of EcoPeace Israel, an organization of Jordanian, Israeli and Palestinian environmentalists, warns that unless decision-makers in Jerusalem get their heads out of the sand and participate in a regional environmental initiative, Israel will pay an unbearable ecological and political price. Bromberg pointed out that Israel has an interest in making the required regional adaptations for global climate change. He noted that Jordan has overtaken Israel in the use of solar energy, adding that the sun could supply Israel with most of its daytime energy needs at a substantially lower environmental and economic cost than that of natural gas. EcoPeace is currently engaged in promoting an initiative to sell solar energy from Jordan to Israel and the Palestinian Authority in return for desalinated water from stations powered by green energy. What is to be done to turn environmental protection into a prestigious issue and give it the place it deserves on the national agenda? The issue could be framed as an emergency national plan for the protection of the heartland and granted generous budgets, while the title of the next minister could be changed from the minister of environmental protection to the minister of environmental defense. Until then, Israelis can continue envying the remarkable achievement of the Green parties in the European Parliament elections. No Green party made it past the Knesset threshold at the April 9 elections. Nechirvan Barzani, the prime minister of Iraqs Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), was elected president by the semi-autonomous regions parliament today in a session that was boycotted by the second largest party. Barzani, who is the nephew and son-in-law of the enclaves veteran leader and former President Massoud Barzani, won 68 votes from 81 members present in the 111-member chamber. Members of the opposition Gorran (Change) Movement as well as Turkmens and Assyrians joined Barzanis Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) to push through the nomination despite the unexpected defection of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). In explaining its abstention, the PUK cited differences with the KDP over whom to back as the new governor of the oil-rich province of Kirkuk. New Generation, a fledgling opposition party, also boycotted the vote, saying it disagreed with how the new president was being elected. Why it matters: The KDP says it had a deal with the PUKs deputy secretary-general, Kosrat Rasool, to nominate a joint candidate, Faraidoun Abdulqadir, as governor of Kirkuk. Everything was in place until 10 p.m. last night when the PUK politburo sent three other names for Kirkuk instead, KDP lawmaker Hemin Hawrami told Al-Monitor. The sides had already decided on the PUKs share of Cabinet posts in the KRG. Gorran and the PUK were each to be given a vice presidential post as part of the deal. The KDP said in a statement that the PUK had blatantly violated the agreement, indicating that the opposition partys role in the new government is now up in the air. Another sticking point concerns which candidate to tap for justice minister in the central government in Baghdad, a post that is usually reserved for Kurds. Hawrami said the sides had agreed on nominating a nonpartisan figure, but this has also fallen through. This situation clearly stems from internal divisions within the PUK, Hawrami said. Bilal Wahab, a fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, concurred. Wahab said intra-party squabbles would likely further weaken the faction-riven PUK, but that the KRG as a whole also stands to lose. A new government with a diminished PUK role will be formed for sure, but it wont be stable or strong because its power will be limited to Erbil, Wahab told Al-Monitor. He was referring to the capital of the Kurdish region where the KDP holds sway. The PUK is the dominant force in Sulaimaniyah, Iraqi Kurdistans second largest city. One point in the new presidents favor is that his mother was from Sulaimaniyah, which allows him to reach out to local residents in a way that none of the other clan members in power can. Whats next: Barzani is expected to be sworn in as president by June 10 and then ask his cousin and brother-in-law, Masrour Barzani, to form a new Cabinet. The younger Barzani is currently in charge of the KRGs intelligence services. A new round of horse trading over which party gets which Cabinet posts will likely ensue. Hawrami said the new government would be formed with or without the PUK. The PUKs Qubad Talabani will likely stay on as deputy prime minister. The urbane younger son of the late PUK founder Jalal Talabani gets on well with the Barzanis and has helped keep relations civil between the rival parties. Ashti Hawrami, the powerful energy minister and a protege of the president-elect, had been expected to retain his much-coveted post in the now lapsed deal with the PUK. However, it remains unclear whether he will be able to do so in a reshuffled deck. What seems certain is that Massoud Barzani will continue to have a say. Know more: Dont miss Amberin Zamans unrivaled reporting for more on Nechirvan Barzanis plans as president and on how his presidency will affect the KRGs internal power dynamics. - Amberin Zaman Correction: May 29, 2019. An earlier version of this piece incorrectly identified the PUK as the main opposition party in Iraqi Kurdistan. It actually shares power with its rival, the KDP. ISTANBUL Opinion polls show opposition candidate Ekrem Imamoglu pulling ahead of his rival from Turkey's ruling party in his bid to recapture the post of Istanbul mayor. He briefly held the position before electoral officials revoked his mandate and forced a new election next month. Citing technical irregularities earlier this month, the Supreme Electoral Council (YSK) canceled the results of Istanbuls March 31 mayoral election in which Imamoglu of the Republican Peoples Party (CHP) squeaked out a victory with a winning margin of just 13,729 votes out of the 8.5 million ballots cast. The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), which has controlled the Istanbul municipality for a quarter century, promptly objected to the result. Now, a handful of voter polls show Imamoglu of the opposition has broadened his support ahead of the June 23 rerun election, according to news reports. Imamoglu is two points ahead of former AKP Prime Minister Binali Yildirim at 47%, according to pollster MAK Consulting. Imamoglus share is 50.3% when undecided voters are distributed in the poll of 11,000 people conducted between May 15 and 20. In another poll, Imamoglu led by four points at 52% of the vote, Hilmi Dasdemir, head of polling firm Optimar, told HaberTurk television. But Dasdemir said his research was conducted before the YSK released its justification for the elections annulment last week and that Imamoglus lead is likely to contract to two percentage points in another survey Optimar is currently conducting. Dasdemir did not provide further details. Pre-election surveys in Turkey are notoriously problematic because researchers do not always publish information on methodology or data collection, nor is funding for the research transparent, experts have said. Another feature of surveys is that they are less a predictor of a coming election than they are a snapshot of voters inclination on the day they were polled. Still, the latest results indicate the challenges Yildirim faces as he seeks to reverse the March election outcome. The MAK poll found that 79% of respondents said they would not change their vote from the choice they made on March 31. Of the 13% who said they may support a different candidate, 65% had voted for Yildirim last time, it said. MAK also reported that 49% of respondents do not believe the AKPs allegations that irregularities occurred in March, while 43% said they thought that vote was tainted. The YSK indicated the appointment of a small number of polling stations officials who were not civil servants as its main justification for its extraordinary decision to erase Imamoglus win. It did not cite the AKPs far more serious allegations of vote theft. But Yildirim reiterated his claim that he had been robbed. Unfortunately, the votes you cast were appropriated, they were stolen, Yildirim said late on Monday. The ballots you cast for me were attributed to someone else. Yet the perception that Imamoglu was wronged persists, Adil Gur, who owns the A&G opinion research firm, told HaberTurk. Imamoglu has an easier task. Among voters who say they will definitely vote, we see that those who say they will vote for Imamoglu are more motivated. Adding to the worries that Imamoglus campaign is competing on an unlevel playing field, on Monday, a court accepted an indictment against his chief strategist, Canan Kaftancioglu. The prosecutors office wants to jail her for up to 17 years, accusing her of insulting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, spreading terrorist propaganda and provoking enmity among the public in social media posts dating as far back as 2012. Voter turnout is expected to decline in the rerun election with as many as 2.5 million voters leaving the city to begin their summer holidays in June, though a large majority said they will return in time to vote, reported Gur. The largest single group that did not vote on March 31, accounting for 18%, are supporters of the leftist and pro-Kurdish Peoples Democratic Party (HDP), Gur said. The HDP did not field a candidate in Western cities in March to tacitly back the opposition. Irfan Aktan, a columnist with Gazete Duvar who covers the Kurdish political movement, estimated 900,000 Kurds voted for Imamoglu. The HDP has signaled it will maintain its implicit support for Imamoglu again on June 23, despite recent overtures by the government to curry Kurdish support, Aktan told Al-Monitor. But mobilizing Kurdish voters who did not go to the ballot box on March 31 is critical for the CHP this time, he added. While Imamoglu has expressed gratitude to Kurds for their votes, the AKPs campaign rhetoric linking the HDP to armed Kurdish militants makes it problematic for the party to openly endorse the CHP candidate, who risks alienating nationalist Turks. On Monday, Aktan published an interview with Selahattin Demirtas, the HDPs former chairman who has been in prison since November 2016 on terrorism-related charges stemming from his political speeches. The interview was a collective effort, with more than 30 journalists each posing a question that ranged from Demirtas jailhouse literary endeavors to his expectations about the Istanbul election. Demirtas said he was aligned with his party and that it has made its position on the June 23 vote clear. He urged Imamoglu to continue his efforts to bridge the divide among Turkeys deeply polarized electorate to ensure the support the people have shown him endures. Despite his long incarceration, Demirtas remains hugely influential over HDP voters. Before the March vote, he urged supporters on Twitter to vote strategically in a call to back Imamoglu. You never know maybe Demirtas will retweet that right before June 23, said Aktan. RAMALLAH, West Bank The Palestine Investment Fund (PIF) is completing preparations to launch an agricultural investment company within four months. On April 30, PIF Chairman Mohammad Mustafa announced plans for the company, which will be controlled by Sharakat, the PIFs investment arm for agriculture and human development. The new organization will focus its activities on Area C, which includes most of the West Banks agricultural lands, constitutes around 60% of the West Bank and is under the administrative and security control of Israel. Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh told Palestine TV on April 13, [We] will deal with the Palestinian territories as agricultural clusters, and no one can prevent the government from operating in Area C because it is Palestinian land. Nassim Nour, managing director of Sharakat, told Al-Monitor that the PIF already has investments in several agricultural projects worth $8 million, most notably, a plant for producing animal feed and a farm for milk production in Hebron and a vineyard in the Jordan Valley. These operations will come under the purview of the new company, which Nour said, will serve as a national platform for agricultural investment. Nour said the investment company's goal is to promote local production, achieve self-sufficiency, create jobs and protect Palestinian land and farmers. Establishing the company aims to encourage investments in agriculture in Palestine, reduce dependence on imports of food, agricultural goods and meat and to find an alternative so farmers would not have to work in Israel or in settlements, he said. Nour further explained, The companys main objective is not to generate financial returns, but to provide jobs in the agricultural sector, develop and cultivate additional land and promote our Palestinian products by focusing on sectors where there is a shortage, such as red meat, fruits and food industries and animal feed. He added that the company will not compete with small farmers, but will look for gaps in the agricultural sector and fill them through partnerships with the farmers and by working with agriculture experts from the private sector. PIF has set strategic goals for the next 5 to 10 years, with an eye toward modernizing the agricultural sector, enhancing food security, raising local product quality, providing competitive opportunities on the local market, promoting local products in foreign markets, reducing imports, increasing production, and encouraging foreign funding for the agricultural sector, in particular by Palestinian expatriates. The company's initial capital is $80 million, of which $50 million will be provided through financing and loans, Nour said. Some European parties have already expressed interest in funding the company. The remaining $30 million will be guaranteed by the PIF and private investors. The announcement comes after the Palestinian Authority (PA) expressed interest in developing agriculture on the West Bank and in Gaza amid the sector's declining contribution to gross domestic product (GDP). Agriculture's share of GDP dropped to 2.8% in 2017 ($390 million), according to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS), compared to 3.1% in 2016. Earlier, in 2002-03, it had been as high as 9.2% of GDP. On May 9, the PA Ministry of Agriculture reached an understanding with the PCBS to conduct a comprehensive agricultural survey of the West Bank and Gaza in 2020 to compile an updated database on the sector. The information will be used to develop new strategies and agricultural policies. Agriculture Minister Riad al-Attari told Al-Monitor that 43 million shekels ($12.3 million), 9% of the state budget, were allocated to his ministry in 2018 and that an increase was needed. The PA has not yet approved a budget for 2019, amid a financial crisis exacerbated by Israel unilaterally deciding to deduct a certain portion of the taxes it collects on behalf of the PA and the PA therefore refusing to accept any of the funds. In light of this situation, the PA adopted an emergency financial plan that continues through July. After the formation of a new government on April 13, the Ministry of Agriculture set out a three-month action plan for April 15 through July 15 to promote and support Palestinian farmers, to help them preserve their presence. Attari explained the concept behind the plan, stating, The conflict with Israel is on every inch of land, specifically in contact areas and agricultural areas in the Jordan Valley. Accordingly, Attari asserted, the plan aims to promote steadfastness of farms through natural resources development, road construction, land reclamation, new plantings and the introduction of new products, creation of employment opportunities for women and youths, development of fisheries and new wells to collect water for farmers. The plan costs 93 million shekels ($26 million), 43% of which will be allocated to Gaza, Attari said. The PA will pay for some 60% or more of it, while local institutions, such as agricultural unions and civil society organizations involved in the agricultural sector, and international partners, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), will contribute around 40%. The FAO's contribution is being funneled through projects already underway in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture. Attari said that part of the plan had been implemented in late April and involved distributing some 4.2 million euros to farmers in Gaza who have been negatively affected by the military conflicts with Israel. Also as part of the plan, Attari said, his ministry will create 121 miles of agricultural (service) roads in the West Bank and augment forest areas by planting 600,000 trees. On May 21, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a trilateral phone discussion about Syria and Ukraine. Escalatory fighting over Idlib was one of the issues that dominated the agenda. The Syrian regime has lately been engaged in a large-scale military assault against the terrorist groups entrenched in the area, with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham being by far the most active and dangerous one. Frances posture on this issue, beyond its moral commitments, is based upon three pillars: the Sochi agreement signed in September 2018 between Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan; the need to boost the formation of the Constitutional Committee; and adjunction of talks between the Small Group on Syria composed of France, the UK, Germany, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Egypt with the Astana forum presided over by Russia, Turkey and Iran. Paris remains firmly opposed to any military solution in Idlib, and has called on all the stakeholders to stick to the Sochi agreement of September 2018 to safeguard this de-escalation zone. This has been clearly stated since the quadrilateral summit held in October 2018 in Istanbul that brought together Merkel, Macron, Putin and Erdogan upon the invitation of the latter. Paris is one of the founding and probably one of the leading members of the so-called Group of Five that was renamed the Small Group on Syria following the inclusion of Germany and Egypt into the format. The Small Group affirmed in January the necessity of forming a Constitutional Committee under the auspices of the UN Security Council Resolution 2254, and urged the stakeholders to initiate as quickly as possible the drafting of the new Syrian Constitution. De facto, France has pragmatically taken for granted the outcomes of the Syrian National Dialogue Congress held in Sochi in late January 2018, although French officials have always been very skeptical about it. The Istanbul summit and the formation of the Small Group are both something Paris takes pride in since they are supposed to enhance Frances posture on the Syrian dossier. After the Small Group gained traction, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian sought in late January to build bridges between the group and the Astana forum. So far, however, these contacts seem to have delivered modest results. One of the reasons could be the profound difference in the agendas of the two forums. While the former was created around humanitarian concerns as well as a strong consensus against the use of chemical weapons and the necessity to punish any actor using them, the latter is above all a place of discussion to tackle technical issues (de-escalation zones, exchange of prisoners and bodies, etc.). High expectations regarding contacts between the Small Group and the Astana forum seem far-fetched. This situation is unlikely to evolve in a constructive way for three main structural reasons. First, in Paris high-level French diplomatic officials have been recently rotated and the process is likely to continue within the next few weeks. Hence, Macron adviser Philippe Etienne, known for his balanced views regarding Russia and Syria, is reportedly set to leave the Elysee Palace for the position of French ambassador to the United States. A French diplomatic source told Al-Monitor on the condition of anonymity that, while at the Elysee Palace, Etienne many times prevented the adoption of strange decisions pushed by hard-liners against Russia. His successor has already been appointed; Emmanuel Bonne has a Middle East background, which may suggest Macrons intention to put a greater emphasis on the Middle East-North Africa region in his diplomatic action. However, it remains to be seen whether Bonnes views regarding Russia will balance those of the so-called French neoconservatives. The rotation of high-level staff has also taken place at the Quai dOrsay Frances Foreign Ministry where Nicolas Roche has been freshly appointed chief of staff. He is known to belong to the hard-liners and to have a tough stand, especially regarding Russia and Iran. Second, Frances positioning on the Syria dossier largely relies on its relationship with Turkey. Paris has been supporting the Turkish stance on the refugee issue, trying by the same token to alleviate Ankaras concerns about the cooperation forged in Syria between French special forces and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The latters combat units are mostly Kurds coming from the People's Protection Units, which the Turks consider to be terrorist group. On April 19, Macron had a meeting with SDF representatives in Paris, which angered Ankara. This fragile working relation between France and Turkey on the Syrian issue is based on the assumption that Paris and Ankara share to a certain extent interests in Syria combating terrorism, concerns related to the fate of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and, as mentioned, the refugee question. Yet Frances plan to gain a naval base in Cyprus, on the Greek part of the island, could jeopardize these shaky tactical convergences. In November, the French Senate voted for a bill that would authorize the broadening of military cooperation between France and Cyprus, especially in the field of the logistical support, including the deployment of military and civilian personnel. In February, the French ambassador to Cyprus, Rene Troccaz, visited the Andreas Papandreou air base in Paphos and the Evangelo Florakis naval base near Limassol. His comments confirmed the interest of Paris in acquiring a permanent naval facility in Cyprus, and suggested that work to extend the naval base would be soon undertaken, and financed by France. Finally, on May 15, Cypriot Defense Minister Savvas Angelides met with his French counterpart, Florence Parly, in Paris, where they signed a letter of intent regarding the construction of the base. Frances plan to gain a permanent naval facility in Cyprus is intended to support the deployment of French or European naval units in the eastern Mediterranean, a region largely perceived in Paris as a lasting flashpoint at the backdoor of the European Union. Furthermore, the objective is to check Russias naval activity in the area, which has been growing since the end of the first decade of the 21st century, before being catalyzed by the Syrian crisis. However, it is far from certain that this new French naval asset will be positively welcomed by Ankara, which plans to explore and exploit offshore natural gas in disputed area off Cyprus. Therefore, Paris recent offer made to Turkey to temporarily dispatch French-Italian SAMP-T air-defense systems on Turkish soil could be seen as an attempt to alleviate Ankaras concerns. By the same token, the French may hope that this offer will push Turkey to think twice before proceeding to the completion of the S-400 deal with Moscow. This deal and this is the third reason is likely to trigger the activation of the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act passed by the US Congress. The perspective of even greater US-Turkish tensions caused by American sanctions on Turkey is likely to damage the already fragile contacts between the Small Group and the Astana forum, further jeopardizing Frances chance to regain a diplomatic foothold on the Syrian issue. For all these reasons, French and Russian cooperation in the Syrian context should not exceed the purely operational level in the foreseeable future. It should encompass mainly two fields: deconfliction measures above and off Syria, on the one hand, and the hunt for French- and Russian-speaking jihadis, on the other. A French military source who spoke with Al-Monitor not for attribution said the communication between the French and the Russian navies in the eastern Mediterranean during the deployment of the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle in March was very good, even excellent. At this stage, Paris and Moscow can only build on this practical relation. But not beyond. Relations between the United States and Turkey have become tangled into a knot. Attempts to reach a compromise on the issue of Syrian Kurds have repeatedly stumbled, whereas Ankaras purchase of the Russian S-400 anti-aircraft missile system is believed to threaten NATO solidarity with erosion. Turkey has reportedly about two weeks to decide whether to buy American Patriot missiles or face harsh penalties for the deal with Russia. The Turkish Foreign Ministry slammed this ultimatum, and so did Russia. "We are going on the many statements made by representatives of Turkey's leadership headed by President [Recep Tayyip] Erdogan that the S-400 deal is already complete and will be implemented, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday. "We regard this [US position] extremely negatively. We consider such ultimatums to be unacceptable," Peskov added. Turkey is obviously trying to maintain the balance of interests. Ankara demonstrates steadfastness, declaring that expanding the cooperation with Russia is possible, and shows that it is getting prepared for potential restrictions yet still hoping for a reasonable compromise. Turkeys Defense Minister Hulusi Akar announced the first group of Turkish military personnel had already arrived in Russia for the training course to operate the S-400 systems. All of this is happening amidst ongoing US-Turkey talks over the purchase of the Patriot deal, including the missile systems price, possibilities for co-production and technology sharing. Erdogan appears to be hoping that both the American and the Russian deals eventually go through. They (the Americans) are passing the ball around in the midfield now, showing some reluctance. But sooner or later, we will receive the F-35s. Not delivering them is not an option, Erdogan said. He recently pointed out that the purchase of Russian S-400s under highly favorable terms may be followed by contracts on S-500s, including the projects of joint production. This is not the first time the Turkish leader has expressed interest in the S-500 air defense systems. Back in summer 2018, Erdogan said he had requested his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, to produce the systems in cooperation. Back then, his remarks went without comment from Moscow. This time, however, Peskov confirmed that the two presidents had indeed discussed the prospects for a contract on an S-500 supply to Turkey despite the fact that the system is still not licensed for the Russian army itself. The two presidents may have indeed discussed expanding the military-technical cooperation, including joint projects that involve innovative systems. However, in the current situation, Peskovs remarks should also be considered a gesture of political solidarity. Besides, given NATOs concerns over Russias ability to learn how to indicate and track American aircrafts using radars in case Ankara gets both the S-400 missile system and F-35 fighters Moscow wants to lend Ankara a supportive shoulder. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu claimed that in case the F-35 deal fails, his country is ready to buy Russian aircraft. At the same time, Sergey Chemezov, head of Russias state-owned Rostec Corporation, who is sanctioned by the United States, told the Anadolu news agency that Russia had approved the documents allowing the export of Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets, and Moscow was ready to negotiate with Ankara on their sale. Remarkably, like the S-500 missile system, Su-57 jet fighters are not yet officially adopted by the Russian army. At the same time, one should note that Moscow seems to be ready to share some innovative weapons technology under its traditional condition characteristics of exported weapons are always lower than those used by Russias own troops. Russia has a mixed bag on this subject matter its dealings with India are particularly illustrative. But the Russian military industry has already experienced collaboration in the design of weapons that were adopted by the national troops only after the export contracts had been implemented. For example, the Pantsir-S1 short-range air defense system appeared in Russia due to the contract with the United Arab Emirates, which had funded the development. Interestingly, the Russian army has ended up being only the fourth purchaser of the system, following sales to the Emirates, Algeria and Syria. The dominant view in Russia on the S-500 is that the system will utilize the full potential of long-range, high-altitude interception capability, representing the new generation of air and missile defense systems. If first drafts of the S-400 had been created back in the Soviet era, the development of the S-500 started as late as 2003. The S-500s alleged parameters are quite impressive: an impact radius of 600 kilometers (372 miles) and the capability to detect and destroy aerodynamic targets both intermediate- and intercontinental-range ballistic missiles in the middle and final portions of their paths. The S-500 operating system allows for merging with other defense systems including the S-300 and the S-400 into a unified, multilayered structure to create areas where air and missile defense facilities are concentrated. As stipulated by the current national program for the army re-equipment planned for 2011-2020, Russian aerospace forces were scheduled to receive 10 divisions of S-500 systems. Mentioning the possibility of cooperation but falling short of mentioning specific timelines is a well-known political measure. The S-500 system is not yet adopted by the Russian army. Usually, several years pass between establishing internal use of weapons and exporting them, Andrey Frolov, a military analyst and editor-in-chief of the Russian Arms Export periodical, told Al-Monitor. In theory, it is certainly possible that the export version of the S-500 is designed in advance. However, it is still unlikely, and there is no credible information to prove this idea, he argued. Russian military expert Yury Lyamin informed Al-Monitor that even after the S-500 is officially licensed for the Russian army, the production of the systems would likely be aimed at meeting local needs for several upcoming years. For instance, the S-400 system had been adopted inside Russia in 2007; however, its export started virtually a decade later, Lyamin said. Andrey Frolov believes that Erdogans claims about the joint production of the S-500 should be viewed within the context of Turkish-American tensions and as a result of mounting pressure over the S-400 deal. Numerous issues of Turkeys internal politics, foreign relations and technology are tied up with the S-400 deal. For the Russian side, this situation is quite peculiar similar, perhaps, only to the export of the S-300 to Iran. However, that case did not cause such controversies around domestic politics and technical matters, Frolov said. As far as the S-400 deal is concerned, some nuances are important. Localization of production of the system in Turkey as well as technology sharing had been key ingredients thus far in making the deal beneficial for Turkey. At least since 2017, the Turkish Foreign Ministry has argued that the deal wont go through without observance of the two conditions. Back then, Russians saw this statement as an element of politics on the part of Turkey in its talks with the United States amidst Washingtons approval for the THAAD anti-missile system deal with Riyadh following the Russia-Saudi Arabia agreement on the export of the S-400. Subsequent Russian-Turkish consultations resulted in an agreement on eventual localization of the S-400 production in Turkey, though objectively limited no more than 15%, as Russian sources described it to Kommersant. Even in the situation around the S-400, it is unclear whether the production will be localized, Frolov said. Firstly, it was initially supposed that Ankara would receive the first systems in 2020. However, as requested by the Turkish side, the contracts timelines were set earlier. Secondly, 55% of the contract value is going to be funded by a Russian loan; this negotiation position is not quite suitable for localization requests, though it is possible that later, the elements of S-400 systems from the last installment will include wheeled undercarriages made in Turkey, he explained. Lyamin reminded that the air defense systems include a variety of elements besides the launchers, missiles and radars, such as tow trucks and cranes. Though it is hard to grasp what 'localizing production of specific details' exactly means if sensitive technologies are not provided, it may include using Turkish-made vehicles, communications and other equipment, he argued. Thus, if the already-signed contract on the S-400, agreed upon in an extremely short time and based on personal arrangements between Putin and Erdogan, includes so many grey areas, no conditions for actual co-production of the S-500 currently exist. Let alone, its not clear how the Russian-Turkish bilateral relationship transforms in five to seven years, and how it may change the course of military cooperation between the two countries. ALEPPO, Syria The Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) is stepping up efforts to force young men into military service in the northern province of Raqqa. Though SDF leaders deny that service is compulsory, on May 18 its Military Discipline Units arrested 20 young men from Tel al-Saman, Khaniz and Mazraat Tishrin in Raqqa for avoiding service and took them to training camps. The arrest campaign has raised public ire in northeast Syria, specifically in Raqqa, though arrests have been made across the Euphrates region that SDF controls, such as Kobani, Manbij and its countryside and Al-Jazira. The campaign targets all ethnicities, including Arabs and Kurds. The Committee for Protection and Self-Defense in Raqqa, affiliated with the autonomous administration areas in northern and eastern Syria, is tasked with recruiting for the SDF. The recent arrests came after a May 14 decision by the defense committee in the Euphrates region, calling on men between the ages of 18 and 28 to perform what SDF describes as self-defense duty. The SDF receives support from the US-led international coalition against the Islamic State. A local source spoke with Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity about ongoing protests led by Arabs against Kurdish rule in Deir ez-Zor and against the conscription efforts as well as wide arrests of those the SDF accuses of belonging to the Islamic State. Reuters reported in June that according to residents, "Many of [Raqqa city's] over 100,000 residents are angered by a policy of obligatory military conscription of youths and resentful of perceived discriminatory practices against the majority Arab population by senior Kurdish officials who effectively run the city." The SDF had conducted a previous such campaign in September, imposing strict curfews, establishing security checkpoints and disarming citizens. At least 20 people were arrested for allegedly avoiding military service or being IS militants. In January, SDF-affiliated military police arrested 12 men from Tel Hammam and Hammam al-Turkman in Raqqa province because they refused to join the SDF. This month, an SDF source told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity that per the May 14 decision, Syrians who hold residency in other countries or who have been residing abroad for more than five years can be exempted from military service in return for a $6,000 fee. They also have the option to delay their military service for $400 per year. Abdul Latif Mohammad, an activist from Raqqa, told Al-Monitor the SDF is erecting checkpoints all over the city, and in other cities like Tel Abyad, Tabaqa and Ain Issa, to arrest young evading military service. The conscription campaigns have pushed thousands of youths from Raqqa to head to opposition-held areas in Aleppos countryside. Some were lucky and entered Turkey, while others fled Raqqa and remain in hiding. However, they can't wander around the governorate or cross roads where SDF checkpoints stand. Many of the conscripts fled after their recruitment, and SDF police officers are raiding their houses to rearrest them and send them to the camps," Mohammad said. Conscription campaigns target the Arabs of the Arab-dominated governorate of Raqqa. Arabs do not want to join the SDF and refuse to send their children. Raqqa resident Musa al-Khalaf told Al-Monitor, Raqqa citizens strongly reject SDF conscription. I recently participated in protests condemning the SDFs oppressive practices and conscription. According to Khalaf, the SDF is meeting with local influential figures, telling them that IS was expelled thanks to them and that they have the right to make decisions and impose rules. He said the SDF is telling citizens that refusing to serve in the military would lead to the return of IS bombings or Syrian government forces to their areas. The SDF security practices are annoying. The group is abducting youths at its checkpoints and dragging them to conscription camps," Khalaf said. The conscription campaigns target poor families in Raqqa. Most of them do not have money to make ends meet. The men of the house often join the SDF to get by. SDF fighters receive a $200 monthly salary, while leaders receive $400 per month. SDF service lasts 18 months. Once that period is complete, the recruits can remain within its ranks and receive a monthly salary, or they can be dismissed and return home. The mother who was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse of her 13-month-old daughter has been indicted by a Baldwin County grand jury, according to District Attorney Robert Wilters. Jordan Rice, 29, has officially been charged with capital murder and aggravated child abuse resulting in the death of her daughter, Violet Rice. The grand jury also subsequently charged the father, Robert Rice with manslaughter and aggravated child abuse. A warrant was issued for Roberts arrest on May 17 with bond set at $100,000 on each charge. According to the grand jury, Jordan being a responsible person did willfully abuse, cruelly beat or otherwise willfully maltreat, V.R., a child under six years of age, resulting in serious physical injury of the child. Jordan had two other children living in the RV at the time of Violets death. The children -- one being a 6-year-old and the other a 3-year-old. Both children were taken to child care services on the evening their sister died. When police arrived to Jordans RV last May, maggots, dirty diapers, piles of unclean dishes, and standing water in both the bathtub and sink were found, along with condoms strewn throughout the camper. Jordan is being held without bond on the capital murder charge, however on the count of aggravated child abuse, bond is set at $100,000. This indictment is the culmination of a yearlong investigation involving the Baldwin County Sheriffs Office, the United States Air Force, and the Baldwin County District Attorneys Office. The new Cook Museum of Natural Science is about 12 times as big as the last one. And believe it or not, out of 11 exhibits only one of them is dedicated to insects, a point that needs to be made since the museum was founded by John Cook Sr. of Cooks Pest Control. "Yeah, it just comes with the name," says the museum's marketing and PR manager, Mike Taylor. "And that's a good thing because everyone in this area knows Cook's. But even the old museum was not strictly 'a bug museum' and had a little bit of everything in that one as well. I'm just excited because it's going to be a pleasant surprise for people." Those surprises at the new museum include alligators, jellyfish, snakes, turtles, fish and other live creatures, extensive gem and mineral collections and faithful river, desert and forest recreations. Cook Museum of Natural Science. (Courtesy photo) About three years after the previous location closed, the Cook Museums new location, 133 Fourth Ave. N.E. in Decatur, will hold its grand opening June 7. For opening weekend, hours are 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday. (Normal, seasonal hours for summer: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday. 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday and 12 - 6 p.m. Sunday.). Tickets ($20 ages 15 and up, $15 ages 3 to 14, $17 seniors and military, free for ages 2 and under) go on-sale to the general-public closer to opening. Tickets will be available to museum members two days before the general-public. Memberships starts at $55 with more information available at cookmuseum.org. Cook Museum of Natural Science. (Courtesy photo) The new facility is about 62,000 square-feet. It houses aquariums. Terrariums. A glass encased, fully populated and functional bee hive. Meteorites. Taxidermy displays, including a nine-foot grizzly bear. And yes, the new Cook Museum will boast some interesting bugs, uh sorry, insects - including black widow spiders, a variety of katydids and blue death feigning beetles. But this isn't just a museum filled with stuff you just look at. Exhibits - like the painstakingly researched cave exhibit and a climbable replica of a giant poplar tree - are meant to be experienced. "Our mission is to get kids and families excited about the natural world around," Taylor says, "and to get inspired to do that kind of exploration." Cook Museum of Natural Science. (Courtesy photo) The Cook Museum got its start from the aforementioned John Cook Sr.'s bug collection, which he used to train Cooks employees. In 1980 he opened up his Decatur facility to school and community groups as a museum. For 36 years, it operated for free like that, Taylor says. Between 1980 and 2016, more than 750,000 people visited the Cook Museum, according to Taylor. Around 2012, the museum began considering renovations, but after looking at a few options decided to redo the facility from the ground up. The new Cook Museum has been a $32.4 million project, Taylor says, seeded by fund-raising. The museum will employ about 100, some part-time, some full. Cook Museum of Natural Science. (Courtesy photo) The museum's live animals are acquired via a variety of ways. Some, including king snakes and gopher snakes, were purchased from breeders and collectors. "The four alligators we have came from a reserve here in Alabama," Taylor says, "and they will be returned there once they grow to the point where we can no longer accommodate them. The diamondback terrapins came from UAB, and we are housing them temporarily until they are large enough to be released into the wild." Cook Museum collects some of its own specimens. The facility has a permit to do so at Wheeler Wildlife Refuge and has obtained some insects and other invertebrates from there. Other creatures are donated. They all go through a 30-day quarantine process to make sure theyre healthy before entering the museum, Taylor says. The wildly popular Broadway musical Hamilton ignited a passion for everything related to the founding of the United States of America. Even if you havent been lucky enough to see the show, you can get to know Alexander Hamilton and other heroes of the Revolutionary War at Alabamas American Village, which exists to celebrate American history. On Independence Day, the busiest day of the year at this 188-acre campus in Montevallo, just 30 miles south of Birmingham, three different vignettes will revolve around the founding father without a father. Eliza and Alexander make appearances, says Melanie Poole, communications officer for American Village Citizenship Trust. Then we kill Alexander. Of course, no one really kills him, but the fatal duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr is re-enacted during a daylong patriotic extravaganza on July 4th. In the two decades since it was founded in 1999, American Village has hosted more than 700,000 students ranging in age from pre-K to 12th grade from every county in Alabama as well as four surrounding states. But its not just for students an almost equal number of casual visitors walk the perfectly manicured landscape as well. Originally a cattle farm, located on rolling acres along Alabama Highway 119, Alabama Village was dreamed up by founder and CEO Tom Walker. He envisioned a place where young people could learn about American history by participating in it, says Poole. He drummed up support, drew it out on a napkin and explained it to an architect. The barn, which has been renovated and re-purposed, is the only original structure at the village, which consists of 20 replicas inspired by historical places throughout America. American Village is so important throughout the Southeast, says Poole. We realize a lot of Alabama children will not have an opportunity to visit Boston or even D.C. or Philadelphia. Here, they can see replicas of historic places and take part in historic events here in the heart of Alabama. When schools out, American Village hosts the Celebrate America program from June 4 through July 31, Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with activities planned for all ages. Admission is only $5, and its free for veterans and active members of the military. About a dozen costumed interpreters tell the stories of their characters while interacting with guests. Major James Moore, dressed as an officer in the Continental army, teaches visitors how to shoot a musket in 10 steps (their muskets are broomsticks) and how to march in formation. A young Martha Washington talks about her husband, our nations first president. And Abigail Adams, known for being the wife and mother of two U.S. presidents, details how difficult it was to spend so much time away from her husband, John Adams,. Visitors will be able to march with George Washingtons Continental army, learn spy techniques practiced during the American Revolution and participate in Paul Reveres ride while shouting, The British are coming! The British are coming! In addition to the planned activities, detailed for visitors daily in the American Village Gazette, the air-conditioned buildings will be open for tours. In the National Veterans Shrine, housed in a building patterned after Carpenters Hall in Philadelphia, short films feature 20 veterans, with Poole asking them questions about their experiences. She asked one veteran what he brough back from his military service, and he replied that he brought a spoon hed used both for eating and for digging graves. There are gut-wrenching stories, she says. In addition, visitors can sit behind an exact replica of the presidents desk in the Oval Office, view dioramas of all the major events in American history in the Randall Museum and see the inside of a colonial chapel, where Patrick Henry gives his impassioned Give me liberty, or give me death speech. As you can imagine, American Village celebrates the birth of America on Independence Day like nowhere else in Alabama, with an estimated 8,000 guests immersing themselves in the red, white and blue, as Poole puts it. The gates open at 11 a.m., and some 40 activities are scheduled throughout the day. In addition to the Hamilton-Burr duel, dont miss the re-enactment of the Battle of Concord Bridge, with the shot heard round the world, and a festive ball in Independence Hall. On the Fourth, a dozen food trucks will sell everything from ice cream to barbecue, and visitors can enjoy bottomless sweet tea and lemonade. Uncle Sam will hand out flags. The evening program begins at 7 p.m., with patriotic music from the Montevallo Community Band and, starting at twilights last gleaming, fireworks that Poole describes as the best up-close-and-personal in the state a 30-minute production of pyrotechnics that go off right over your head behind Washington Hall. Just like every day its open, the Fourth of July is an opportunity for American Village to educate people of all ages about history in a fun way. But theres a solemn purpose behind all the celebrating. Theres a national amnesia about what it means to be an American, says Poole. America is unique in the world in our founding. George Washington said the idea of American is an experiment thats tested anew each day. What would you do, if you had 15 minutes on the phone with Jeff Goldblum? AL.com found out recently, during an interview with the famous actor that lasted, oh, about 900 seconds or so. A publicist was on the line, keeping track of every one of those seconds and only too ready to whisk away her charge to the next item on his celebrity agenda. (A movie premiere? An A-list party? A gig with his band? A meeting with his agent? Who knows?) Goldblum, 66, proved to be a congenial -- and at times, rather playful -- conversationalist, treating the Average Joe interviewer like a friend whod just buzzed in for a chat. He sang snippets of some classic tunes, including Stars Fell on Alabama, and made small talk with easy grace. He asked questions such as, How are you? and How is Birmingham?" and seemed to actually care about the answers. Goldblum admitted that he hasnt spent much time below the Mason-Dixon line, but he recalled a childhood glimpse of the South: Im from Pittsburgh originally, and I remember driving down to Florida for a vacation with my mom and dad. There was moss on the trees, along the way, and I remember thinking, This looks different. This looks pretty." He also recalled filming The Big Chill in South Carolina, noting the beauty of the Spanish moss in Beaufort. Just like that, 15 minutes passed quickly -- much too quickly -- and there was no chance for a second chat. The best thing to do, it seemed, was to go with the flow, even if that meant the conversation never turned to his biggest films (the blockbuster Jurassic Park and Independence Day series), his ideas about fatherhood (Goldblum has two young sons with his wife, Emilie Livingston) or his celebrated fashion sense. Its easy to see why Goldblum holds a special place in the hearts of his fans, who recite lines from his films -- a favorite is Life, uh, finds a way from 1993s Jurassic Park -- and regard him as a quirky and urbane force of nature. He seems completely at ease with stardom, yet doesnt take himself too seriously. The Jurassic and Independence Day juggernauts rule supreme on his movie resume, but Goldblums credits also include Thor: Ragnarok, The Grand Budapest Hotel, Isle of Dogs, Deep Cover, Hotel Artemis and David Cronenbergs 1986 remake of The Fly. On television, hes appeared on Portlandia, Glee, Will & Grace, Law & Order: Criminal Intent and many other series. Goldblum, who moonlights as a jazz musician, comes to Birmingham on June 2 for an appearance at the Alys Stephens Centers Starlight Gala. Hell be at the keyboard for the 6 p.m. show, performing with the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra. Ask Goldblum if he considers himself a professional musician, and the idea gives him pause. The actor sounds quite modest about that aspect of his career, which includes a 2018 album, The Capitol Studios Sessions. (Goldblum will play selections from the record, and from another thats in the works, at his Birmingham show.) Well, you know, I have a daily life in music, Goldblum says, and to that extent Im a musician. I receive payment for what I do these days, so to that extent, I am a professional musician. Im playing more than ever in my life, even though my acting career is very fertile these days ... I would say Im a passionate musician. So yeah, I guess. I play music." When hes not in front of the cameras, Goldblum has a weekly jazz gig at Rockwell Table & Stage in Los Angeles, playing with an ensemble that typically features John Storie on guitar, James King on tenor saxophone, Alexander Frank on bass, Joe Bagg on organ, Kenny Elliott on drums and a special guest on vocals. His show at the Stephens Center is likely to follow the routine Goldblum has established at Rockwell, where he delves into jazz, tells anecdotes about his life and career, and happily interacts with the crowd. Heres how Los Angeles magazine described Goldblum in action: For 45 minutes before the downbeat, he mills around the room with a mic, asking people where theyre from, relaying news of upcoming weddings and babies, making people laugh and feel dizzily touched by fame. He does a dramatic reading of a text exchange on one mans phone, and signs another mans leg next to a Jurassic Park tattoo. Thats my favorite thing, Goldblum says. We like to get surprised by the audience. We say things. We play games together. We have no set list; its more like, Tell me, here, tell me when to stop. Sometimes ideas come up and well do a snippet of it. The whole band is more focused than ever. Theyre always enhancing my horizons." Goldblum has an extensive repertoire at his disposal, but hes been known to cover time-honored tunes such as Me and My Shadow, It Never Entered My Mind, Gee Baby (Aint I Good to You), Straighten Up and Fly Right, Come On-A My House" and My Baby Just Cares for Me. I like a bunch of different kinds of music, Goldblum says, but with jazz, theres just something in my bones. When I first heard it, it was through my father, who had (the album) Erroll Garner Plays Misty. He loved it, and maybe seeing it through his eyes was impactful. I was taking piano lessons and had some facility for it. When I was taking lessons, I got some sheet music, with Alley Cat, and it was my first piece with syncopation. Something in my brain went crazy. That type of music does something to me." At this point, the publicist signals that Goldblum has only a few moments to spare, so he suggests a lightning round of questions. Ready, go! Can he rate himself as a piano player, on a scale of 1-10? I dont even know if Im on the scale, Goldblum says. Im a humble student. Best song ever written? That question makes him laugh. 'Three Cool Cats by the Coasters, Goldblum says. Its really good. It just drives me crazy. What draws him to the piano, in particular? I like the percussive elements of the piano, Goldblum says. I play every day, when I get up in the morning. I still enjoy getting better and better, kind of the way I am as an actor. Im blooming. And finally: Whats up with that tongue-in-cheek Twitter feed, where Goldblum responds to questions such as Any advice for a sad college student? Thats not me, Goldblum says. Im not on there. Ive never done Twitter. You must mean my Instagram. If you go: Jeff Goldblum and the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra will perform on June 2 at the Alys Stephens Centers Jemison Concert Hall, 1200 10th Ave. South. Tickets for the 6 p.m. concert are $175, and include a cocktail reception at 5 p.m. VIP tickets are $1,500 and include a dinner. Theres also a Junior Patron package for $75, available to those ages 21-39. It includes the pre-performance reception, seating at the show and admission to an after-party. The Starlight Gala is an annul fundraiser for the Stephens Center. For more info, call 205-975-4012 or visit the Stephens Center website. Gadsdens Noccalula Falls Park will be the scene this summer of a dramatic production retelling the legend that gave the landmark its name. The Noccalula Experience will run at the park on weekends May 31 through July 7, Friday through Sunday, at 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Its a production of Brian Clowdus, a native of Hokes Bluff who is the founder of Serenbe Playhouse, a Georgia-based site-specific theatre company which stages outdoor productions, and was recently named one of the Top 20 Theatres in the Nation by Playbill. As visitors to the Gadsden park know, Noccalula Falls is named for a legendary Cherokee woman who jumped to her death from the rocks rather than marry a suitor picked by her father. A statue at the site depicts the Native American princess perched over the gorge that flows below the falls. Other productions over the years have attempted to tell the story through conventional drama and song. The Noccalula Experience, though, is an outdoor production that includes walking a portion of the park trails and standing for up to an hour, organizers say. The story is told using the natural background with actors performing along the terrain. Accommodations can be made available for those with accessibility needs. Noccalula Experience Safety Video! Please watch this video from Director of Parks and Recreation Jen Weathington, Producer Brian Clowdus and Safety Coordinator Jake Guinn as they talk about audience safety and what to expect at The Noccalula Experience! This is going to be an exciting and safe adventure for all including accessibility seating and transportation down to the gorge if needed. Get your tickets asap! We open May 31: tinyurl.com/noccalulaexperience #BCENoccalula Posted by Noccalula Falls Park and Campground on Thursday, May 23, 2019 Tickets can be purchased at the Noccalula Falls Entry Pavilion each day and are also available to purchase online here. Tickets for children start at $17.50 and tickets for adults start at $22.50. Kids three and under get in free. The cast includes names from stages in Atlanta, New York and Hollywood. The lead role of Noccalula will be played by Sarah Elaine, an Atlanta actor who recently performed in Clowdus production of Mamma Mia! The role of Noccalulas true love, Wa-ya, will be played by Jonathan Varillas, a graduate of the New York Film Academy. Tsu-la, the man Noccalula is meant to marry, will be played by Philip Lopez, a grad student at The New School for Drama in Manhattan, who worked with Clowdus in a production of Charlottes Web. Noccalulas Father will be played by Pedro Kaawaloa, a Harvard University graduate who just finished starring as The King of Siam in the Broadway National Tour of The King and I. Perhaps the biggest name is Irene Bedard as the voice of Noccalulas Mother. Bedard performed as the voice of Pocahontas in the 1995 Disney movie of the same name, as well as garnering a Golden Globe nomination for Lakota Woman. Bedard can also be seen in HBOs Westworld, and recently reprised her Pocahontas role in Wreck It Ralph 2. Medical marijuana is one of the remaining issues facing the Alabama Legislature as it moves into what could be its final week of the regular session. The Senate passed a medical marijuana bill on May 9, but it has not advanced in the House. The bill, by Sen. Tim Melson, R-Florence, an anesthesiologist and medical researcher, would allow doctors to recommend medical marijuana to patients to treat pain, muscle spasms and other symptoms for a variety of conditions. It calls for the appointment of an Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission to oversee the issuance of medical cannabis cards and establish a patient registry. Melson said he believes medical marijuana could help reduce the problem of opioid addiction. The House Health Committee will hold a public hearing on the bill at 10 a.m. today. House Speaker Mac McCutcheon, R-Monrovia, said he believes the issue needs more study and expects lawmakers to appoint a committee to do that, rather than pass Melsons bill in the form that left the Senate. Its in the educational phase, McCutcheon said last week. Members are studying. Were listening to the opponents and proponents on it. Were gathering information. And thats one reason that this study commission idea, I think, is going to be very significant. McCutcheon said he thinks progress has been made on the issue and he expects the commission to be given a deadline to report its findings to the Legislature. The bill has drawn some opposition from law enforcement. The executive director Alabama Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics spoke in opposition to the bill at a public hearing in the Senate. Today is the 25th day of the legislative session, which can last up to 30 meeting days. The session could go as late as June 17, but thats not the plan. McCutcheon said lawmakers could meet Tuesday through Saturday this week and finish the session. Lawmakers still have to pass the education and General Fund budgets for 2020. Both budgets are expected to be in conference committees this week to reconcile differences in House and Senate versions. The education budget calls for spending $7.1 billion from the Education Trust Fund, almost $500 million more than this year. The increase is possible mostly because of rising income tax revenues. The budget would fund a 4 percent cost of living adjustment for teachers and other education employees. The General Fund budget includes a $42 million increase for the Alabama Department of Corrections, to $519 million. Thats partly to pay for increased pay and bonuses to help hire and retain more correctional officers. The prison system is under a court order to add about 2,000 officers over the next few years and faces allegations of unconstitutional conditions by the Department of Justice. A bill aimed at improving reading in public schools by requiring third graders to pass a reading test before advancing to fourth grade could get final passage in the Senate this week. The legislation, by Rep. Terri Collins, R-Decatur, is called the Alabama Literacy Act and passed the House by a 92-3 vote. A bill by Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh, R-Anniston, to replace the elected state Board of Education with an appointed education commission could get final passage this week in the House. Its a proposed constitutional amendment, so it would have to win approval by voters to become law. Edited at 7:04 a.m. to correct typos. While Memorial Day is officially a time to honor those who lost their lives in service of their country, it is also a time to recognize veterans. Here are some of the best deals, discounts and freebies for veterans and their families on Memorial Day (May 27). Always check ahead to make sure your favorite location is participating. Academy Sports Military and first responders get 10 percent off purchases through May 27. Ace Hardware Ace Hardware stores around the country are giving away 1 million American flags on Memorial Day weekend. Offer good at participating store while supplies last. Barnes and Noble Get 20 percent off your order both in stores and online with the code MEMORIALDAY20. Bass Pro Shops Active military, veterans, retirees, National Guardsmen and Reservists receive 5 percent off purchases. ID required. Hooters All military current and former - eat free on Memorial Day. Valid ID required. Kohls Kohls offers 15 percent off on Military Mondays. Valid military ID, military dependent ID or veteran ID is required. Logans Roadhouse Military, both active duty and veterans, eat free on Memorial Day from 3-6 p.m. Outback Steakhouse Service members, as well as police officers, firefighters and first responders, can receive 20 percent off their meal through May 27. ID required. Texas de Brazil In honor of #MemorialDay, next Monday - Wednesday (5/27 - 5/29) Veterans & Active-Duty Military can receive a 50% discount off dinner, as well as a 20% discount for up to 8 additional guests. Reserve now: https://t.co/HvN1G8PBtk Restrictions apply. Domestic locations only. pic.twitter.com/HJORfKngFT Texas de Brazil (@texasdebrazil) May 21, 2019 TGI Fridays Get free entree with purchase of any entree and two drinks through May 27. You can get coupon here. Twin Peaks Lee County has seen its second fatal traffic accident this holiday weekend, after a 16-year-old was killed and a 14-year-old injured Monday. Lee County Coroner Bill Harris said the incident happened around 4 p.m. in the 3000 block of Lee County Road 140 in Salem. The driver of the vehicle, 16-year-old Cassidy Snell of Phenix City, was ejected from the vehicle after she apparently lost control and it overturned, Harris said. She became pinned under the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene. A 14-year-old female passenger was also ejected from the vehicle and airlifted by helicopter to Childrens Hospital in Birmingham with critical injuries. Harris said neither Snell nor her passenger were wearing seat belts. The accident remains under investigation by the Lee County Coroners Office and the Alabama State Troopers. On Saturday, Auburn announcer Rod Bramblett and his wife Paula were killed in a deadly car accident in Auburn. Congressman Bradley Byrne said he expects Roy Moore to enter the U.S. Senate race within the next month. For his part, the former Alabama Supreme Court Justice said if he does run, he expects to beat the incumbent, Democratic Senator Doug Jones. Speaking to The Hill, Byrne, R-Fairhope, said sources close to Moore believe he will launch his campaign soon. People who I believe know what theyre talking about say that Judge Moore intends to announce his candidacy for the U.S. Senate in June. I welcome him to the race, Byrne said. Byrne launched his own Senate campaign in February. Moore says he will win Despite losing to Jones in a 2017 race marred by allegations of improper sexual contact with teenage girls in the 1970s, Moore remains confident he could win in 2020. In a series of tweets, Moore asked what is (Byrne) so worried about? He followed that up with he knows that if I run I will beat Doug Jones. He knows that if I run I will beat Doug Jones. Judge Roy Moore (@RealJudgeMoore) May 28, 2019 Byrne disagrees, telling The Hill that Moores political baggage hasnt gone away. I think people are very concerned that we Republicans lost a U.S. Senate seat because he was our nominee in 2017 and we dont need to do that again, Byrne said, adding there were some serious pieces of litigation between some of his accusers and Moore. I personally dont want to talk about any of that; I want to talk about how were going to beat Doug Jones. But I think its inevitable its going to come up in the primary campaign, and if he was the nominee, it certainly would come up in the general election. Moore did not respond to AL.coms request for comment on the story. A railroad company says its freight trains will soon begin traveling at faster speeds through southern Georgia and portions of eastern Alabama. WALB-TV reports that CSX Transportation plans to increase maximum speeds from 25 mph to 40 mph on its tracks between Waycross, Georgia, and Montgomery, Alabama. Thats a distance of roughly 260 miles. CSX said in a news release that higher speed limits taking effect June 1 will improve efficiency and reduce the amount of time motorists wait for passing trains at railroad crossings. The railroad company said track and signal improvements have been made to allow trains to safely increase their speeds. Cities along the route include Valdosta, Bainbridge and Thomasville in Georgia as well as Troy, Ozark and Dothan in Alabama. John Love hasnt worked in a prison in almost six years. But some nights, he awakens every two hours, getting out of bed again just to make sure the doors in his home are locked. You just have really bad nightmares, Love said. A noise, a smell, something will trigger a memory. If I ever hear a really loud boom around me, I about go nuts. Its not anything I can do something about. The anxiety is not new for Love, who worked with the Alabama Department of Corrections as a correctional officer from July 1983 to December 1986. He then served for 26 years at the Federal Correctional Institution at Talladega, until July 2013. You dont realize when you first start out that youre risking your life every day, John said. It takes a little while to get used to it, because youre not used to seeing fights where people are bleeding from everywhere. Once you get used to that, youre not fit to work anywhere else. Love, who survived a brutal 1985 riot at St. Clair Correctional Facility after he was taken as a hostage, sighs. You always think the worst of every person you see. The missing links In virtually every scenario for improving and reforming Alabamas troubled prison system, correctional officers provide the crucial pieces. To begin with, there arent enough. As a two-and-a-half year investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice of the mens system illustrated, Alabama cant keep correctional officers on the job. Understaffing is consistently listed as a major concern - both in care for its mentally-ill inmates, the subject of a long-running lawsuit, and in curbing a climate of rampant violence and persistent sexual abuse, as documented in the report. The DOJ is still attempting to obtain from ADOC certain records on reports of excessive force and sexual abuse against inmates by correctional officers, stating in April that this portion of its investigation is still ongoing. Simultaneously, Alabamas prison system already faces a federal court order to add about 2,000 correctional officers over the next few years. The understaffing problem is magnified in a system of prisons that are aging and badly overcrowded. A recent study of the Alabama Department of Corrections stated that, as of the end of 2017, the inmate to correctional officer ratio for the ADOCs major facilities was 15.4 inmates to one correctional officer. In one facility, Bibb, the ratio is 30.7 to 1. At Easterling, it is 27.6 to 1. In one year alone, twenty percent of correctional officers working in ADOC facilities chose to resign, the report stated. The reasons vary from low pay to the challenges of the job, a complicated hiring process, the availability of better jobs, and a lack of qualified candidates, among other factors. Whats the reason to work so hard? The problems of keeping correctional officers, along with negative perceptions of the job, are not specific to Alabama. Mississippi saw more than half of its correctional officers quit in 2014, according to published reports. Turnover for the Florida Department of Corrections was 22 percent in 2016. The reasons elsewhere are usually the same as Alabama low pay, high stress. A 2017 survey of North Carolinas correctional officers found 56 percent of the respondents had thought about quitting in the last six months, with 39 percent wanting to quit their job. In April, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed job data from website CareerCast and listed correctional officer as the sixth worst job in America, with positions expected to shrink nationally by almost 8 percent through 2026. Yet ADOC has a goal of adding 500 new officers over the next year. There are about 1,200 full time officers now, plus some retired state employees who work part-time. Legislators this session approved a bill to increase officer pay 5 percent and authorize bonuses to help with hiring and recruitment. Last week, the ADOC released its Strategic Plan 2019-2022 in response to the April 2 DOJ report, declaring it will streamline hiring by seeking legislative approval for increased recruiting and retention bonuses; expanding training and leadership development, and expanding education discounts and tuition assistance. Until those new officers materialize, those in the ranks have another challenge on the job mandatory overtime to cover shifts that leaves many officers burned out or ineffective, and leads to an atmosphere inside the prison that is largely reactive to violence rather than proactive. Some say low pay and long hours also tempt other officers to traffic in drugs, contraband cellphones, or look the other way while inmates enforce their will behind bars. One former correctional officer, who asked not to be identified, said mandatory overtime is just one symptom of a larger problem. The week I resigned, I worked 77 hours in that week alone, he said. Most overtime is mandatory. They either dont relieve you from your position meaning no one shows up to replace you, yes, this happens or you are ordered to work overtime. I was told to work overtime or I would never work in that facility again. Whats the reason to work so hard if you dont make a lot for it, and dont have time to either spend it or see your family? Shortage of personnel also means shortage of quality supervisors, he said. A high turnover rate can lead to easy promotion, but with that comes more risk and stress, he said. I had more good days than bad Alabamas mens prisons had similar issues when John Love began as a correctional officer. Less than 10 years before, U.S. District Judge Frank Johnson Jr. placed the state system under federal court order, mandating sweeping change. In the midst of those reforms, though, was the 1985 St. Clair riot, which lasted 11 hours and involved about 200 inmates. Love, who was only 23 at the time, was the first hostage taken. He said he was too new on the job to spot the warning signs. I had a few inmates tell me a few days before to stay away, he remembered. They said, Hey, why dont you go fishing or something? Love said within minutes of inmates taking over part of the facility, he received the worst beating of his life. He was struck in the head with a hammer. Bleeding, he patted his face to make sure both of his eyes were still in their sockets. At one point, a gun was stuck in his mouth. Because of his head injury, he was released after six hours. Once he reached the hospital, Love said he immediately asked for a pencil and paper and wrote out 20 to 25 pages of notes about which inmates were involved. That was a really bad day I had, he said. I had more good days than bad. Officers did not encourage Love to stay on the job. But he did, even after an inmate was stabbed to death and died as Love was transporting him to the prison infirmary. When Love asked who stabbed him, the inmate gave a name, which Love wrote on the sidewalk in the inmates blood to remember, he said. It took care of us And yet, after all those experiences, Johns son Brad also became a correctional officer. Brad now works at the federal installation in Talladega, but he spent three years 2003 to 2006 at the same prison where his father was taken hostage: St. Clair, which to this day has a reputation for violence. Just in the past weekend, three inmates were reportedly stabbed there in the same cell block. In taking the job, Brad said, he absolutely knew the risks, but he thought it was neat that his father had returned to work after the riots. Sounding like John, Brad said not everybody can do the job of a correctional officer. Good people can quickly learn it isnt their cup of tea. As Brad says, a correctional officer can go his whole career without seeing much, but earn his paycheck in 15 minutes. Growing up, I had no intention of doing it, Brad said. But it took care of us. We were never rich, but never went without. Its good, dependable work. Brad said he is sometimes approached in gas stations by people who recognize his officers uniform, and think they know the job because of its depiction on television. How many did you thump today? they might ask. Thats a bad day, the kind of day theyre asking about, he said. We dont go to work looking for that. I hope its really boring. Theres more of them than there are of you As Brad explained, a correctional officer deals with people that have been expelled from society. The officer isnt there to judge them or punish them, but to keep them inside the confines of the prison. Most of them will probably at some point return to a similar facility. Hopefully, some of them will change. And only about a handful of those behind bars will be the ones perpetrating violence and planning mischief. And theyre not the ones you might expect. John said a murderer in for life is usually a better convict. If they had it to do over again, they probably wouldnt do it, he said. Your biggest problem is the guy whos got less than five years. Theyre out to earn a reputation for themselves. Theyre saying, Im Billy Toughtail and youre not going to make me do something I dont want to do. To be a correctional officer, Brad said, you have to remember that most inmates want correctional officers inside the prison, doing their jobs. Youre in there because they let you there, Brad said. Theres more of them than there are of you. But they want staff, because they want people to enforce the rules. Theyre able to be there in peace if we do what were supposed to do. If you take care of the little things, the big things handle themselves. Brad said the Alabama Department of Corrections provides good training for correctional officers, though the staffing shortfall hamstrings the states ability to provide rehabilitation services on par with the federal government. Both father and son are dubious of the drive to revamp the mens prisons by building new ones. Gov. Kay Ivey in February unveiled a plan to build three regional prisons for men to replace complexes that the ADOC has said are too costly to maintain and repair. Last weeks ADOC plan calls for regional correctional complexes. Both said the money could be better spent on salaries, which would attract more officers. Newer, larger prisons would merely augment an already existing numbers shortfall. They cant staff what theyve got now, John said. The Loves have good words for their work, but say that correctional officers require a certain kind of charisma that demands respect, even in a room full of convicted felons. Some of the job cant necessarily be taught, and the reality can quickly destroy a persons expectations. In spite of the long hours and brutal conditions, it still has its rewards. I think Ive been a positive influence on some. Ive met some on the street that Ive had in state and federal prison. If I can turn just one man, and he didnt go back, then Ive done my job, John said. If you can smile at yourself, you can work in a prison. A Tuscaloosa husband, father, son and brother died Monday, three days after he was bitten by a copperhead snake at the familys Smith Lake home. Oliver Chum Baker, 52, was pronounced dead at a Huntsville hospital. He leaves behind a large, close-knit family including his wife, Marilou Briney Baker, and sons Charlie, who just graduated from high school, and 12-year-old Walden. Baker grew up in the Birmingham area. He never met a stranger, said his brother, Reb Baker. He loved everybody. The family had gathered at the lake home for the long holiday weekend. Baker was outside on the stone patio walking his new lab puppy when he alerted family members that he had been bitten by a copperhead. The snake was still coiled up outside the back door. Within minutes, Baker fell unconscious. A relative gave him mouth-to-mouth resuscitation until paramedics arrived. They drove to a nearby school so that he could be airlifted to UAB Hospital in Birmingham, but he was not stable enough to fly. The paramedics then took him by ambulance to a Jasper hospital, and eventually he was airlifted to Huntsville. Family said Baker suffered a severe allergic reaction to the snakes venom which caused anaphylactic shock and ultimately cardiac arrest. Baker never regained consciousness. It was a whole chain of events, Reb Baker said. His organs just couldnt recover. Baker was the youngest son of retired Birmingham radiologist Dr. Charlie Baker and his wife, Pat. He worked water quality control for the City of Northport. A GoFundMe has been started to help with his sons ongoing education. Donations can be made here. He would go way out of his way to help everybody. He never wanted accolades, his brother said. Everybody loved him. Its just unbelievable. A federal appeals court has ruled it will not stay the execution of an Alabama inmate set to die on Thursday. Christopher Price, 46, was convicted in the 1991 robbery and slaying of Fayette County minister Bill Lynn. Price was initially set to die by lethal injection on April 11, but the execution was called off just before midnight because the state said it didnt have time to start the procedure before the death warrant expired. The Alabama Supreme Court set Prices new execution date for May 30 at William C. Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore. The execution is set to take place at 6 p.m. In an order issued by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals on Friday, the appeals court denied Prices request for a stay of execution. The court wrote, The fundamental problem for Price is the [United States] Supreme Court has already found his claim to be untimely and, therefore, unworthy of a stay of execution. And because that holding it is the law of this case, both this Court and the district court are bound by the April 12, 2019, decision. Price appealed to the 11th Circuit after the Southern District Court of Alabama in Mobile also denied him a stay. Prices attorneys are also appealing another motion denied by the lower courts. On the day of his first scheduled execution in April, Price was the subject of several legal battles. About two hours before the scheduled execution at 6 p.m. that evening, Southern District of Alabama Chief Judge Kristi DuBose issued a stay of execution for 60 days and ordered the state to submit evidence in contradiction to Prices contention the three-drug lethal injection protocol will cause or is likely to cause severe pain. Price was asking to be executed by the newly approved method, nitrogen hypoxia. The U.S. Supreme Court later ruled the execution could go forward, but their ruling came after the Alabama Attorney Generals Office had already called it off for the night. Following the SCOTUS ruling, the AGs Office asked the Alabama Supreme Court for a new execution date. Late last month, DuBose set Prices case for a non-jury trial on June 10 at 9:00 a.m. Her order on the trial date did not prevent the Alabama Supreme Court from setting a new execution date for Price, however, and the judge wrote she would not stay the execution if a new date was set. The new execution date was set days later. Full coverage of executions in Alabama Lynn was killed with a sword and a dagger on the evening of December 22, 1991, outside of his home in the Bazemore community. Lynn was a minister at the Natural Springs Church of Christ, and had returned home with his wife Bessie Lynn following a church service that evening. According to court records, Lynn was assembling Christmas toys for his grandchildren when the electricity suddenly went out. The minister went outside to check the power box, when his wife heard a noise and then saw a person outside holding a sword. Bessie Lynn testified that her husband yelled for her to call the police, but she realized the telephone lines had been cut when she tried to use the phone. Bessie Lynn armed herself with a pistol and testified that she went outside and fired a gunshot into the air. She found her husband and handed him the gun, but there were no bullets left. She was then beaten by two men and ultimately gave them her jewelry, money, and guns that were in the house. When the men left, Bessie Lynn ran to her fathers house nearby and called for help. Bessie Lynn was treated for several wounds but survived the attack; her husband died en route to the hospital with dozens of wounds and his arm nearly severed. She and five other relatives were present in Atmore last month prepared to witness Prices execution. Nearly four years after Haleigh Greens body was found in Shelby County woods, the man charged in her slaying pleaded guilty to the crime. Demarcus Lamar Means, now 23, was initially charged with capital murder in the 2015 killing of Green, 18, with whom he had a former relationship. On Tuesday, he pleaded guilty to a reduce charge of murder with a sentence of life in prison. Green, a graduate of Shelby County High School and a student at Lawson State Community College, was last seen by her family on July 6, 2015 in the Columbiana area. Her family filed a missing persons report later that day after she didn't return home and didn't show up for her college classes. Her body was found July 11 after her red Ford Mustang was spotted in a heavily wooded area off County Road 315 in unincorporated Shelby County near Columbiana. Authorities said a gunshot wound was a contributing cause of death. Communities throughout Shelby County rallied in support of the teen's family following her disappearance and death. Green bows adorned mailboxes, light poles, front doors to buildings and other places throughout Columbiana and neighboring communities to show support for the Green family and help raise money to assist in funeral expenses and other needs. Community members had formed search parties, and a Facebook page called Help Find Haleigh was created. Hundreds attended a vigil one week after her body was found. Means, then 19, was captured by U.S. Marshals in Los Angeles on July 21, 2015. He was caught on a Chicago bus station surveillance camera while traveling to Kansas, Stockton, CA., and then eventually Los Angeles. Means was booked initially into the Shelby County Jail but then transported to the St. Clair County Jail in Ashville. He was jailed in St. Clair Jail "due to the impact this case has had on the local community, pending bond and court appearances in Shelby County," the Shelby County Sheriff's Office said in a statement released at the time. The Shelby County District Attorney's Office in court documents asked for a high bond for Means, stating at the time he had a history of violent and threatening behavior, including but not limited to, arrests for domestic violence and menacing. In the menacing incident he pointed a gun at a victim whom he had previously assaulted physically." Means was set to go on trial in June. An investigation is underway after a deadly shooting in west Birmingham. Police responded at 6:45 a.m. to the 2500 block of 19th Street near Bush Boulevard. That location is outside Deluxe Cleaners. Birmingham police spokesman Sgt. Johnny Williams said West Precinct officers were dispatched to the area after the citys gunfire detection system - Shot Spotter, alerted them to multiple shots fired in the area. Once on the scene, they found an adult male on the ground suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service pronounced him dead on the scene. Williams said they have not yet confirmed the mans identity. Four people- a man and several women - were handcuffed and detained. Williams said they are not considered suspects at this time, but will be questioned by detectives to determine any possible involvement in the situation. West Precinct Officers roped off a blocks-wide perimeter. About 8 a.m., the departments K9 teams arrived on the scene. "We know someone, a possible suspect, was in the area,'' Williams said. Its possible, he said, the suspect had managed to leave the area but said they are trying determine if he is still in the perimeter and hiding somewhere. The shooting took place just blocks off of the interstate. Williams said police are asking residents in the area to remain vigilant and to let police know if they see something amiss. The killing is Birminghams 45th homicide victim of 2019. Of those, at least seven have been ruled justifiable and therefore are not deemed criminal by the Birmingham Police Department. In all of Jefferson County, there have been 66 homicides, including the 45 in Birmingham. Anyone with information on the slaying is asked to call Birmingham police homicide investigators at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. If you are currently a print subscriber but don't have an online account, select this option. You will need to use your 7 digit subscriber account number (with leading zeros) and your last name (in UPPERCASE). A Birmingham man is under arrest after authorities say he shot at two men on Monday morning. Jefferson County sheriffs deputies responded about 9:30 a.m. to a call of a vehicle crash and shots fired in the 400 block of 15th Terrace N.W., said sheriffs Capt. David Agee. He identified the suspect as Dewayne Mone Prowell Jr. Agee said Prowell fired shots at two men that he knows. The men began to shoot back at Prowell, and Prowell then crashed his vehicle into the vehicle belonging to the other two men. All three fled the crash scene but were captured by deputies in different locations, with the help of residents in the area. No one was injured by the gunfire, but bullets struck several buildings and houses. Prowell is charged with two counts of attempted murder. He was booked into the Jefferson County Jail at 2:37 p.m. Monday and released at 12:16 a.m. Tuesday after posting $30,000 bond. This is an opinion piece. The term UFO automatically triggers derision in most quarters of polite society. One of Christopher Buckleys better satires, Little Green Men, is premised on a George F. Will-type pundit thinking that he has been abducted by aliens, with amusing results. UFOs have historically been associated with crackpot ideas like Big Foot or conspiracy theories involving crop circles. The obvious reason for this is that the term "UFO" is usually assumed to be a synonym for "extraterrestrial life." If you think about it, this is odd. UFO literally stands for "unidentified flying object." A UFO is not necessarily an alien from another planet. It is simply a flying object that cannot be explained away through conventional means. Because UFOs are usually brought up only to crack jokes, however, they have been dismissed for decades. One of the gutsiest working paper presentations I have witnessed was Alexander Wendt and Raymond Duvall presenting a draft version of "Sovereignty and the UFO." In that paper, eventually published in the journal Political Theory, Wendt and Duvall argued that state sovereignty as we understand it is anthropocentric, or "constituted and organized by reference to human beings alone." They argued that the real reason UFOs have been dismissed is because of the existential challenge that they pose for a worldview in which human beings are the most technologically advanced life-forms: "UFOs have never been systematically investigated by science or the state, because it is assumed to be known that none are extraterrestrial. Yet in fact this is not known, which makes the UFO taboo puzzling given the ET possibility," they wrote. "The puzzle is explained by the functional imperatives of anthropocentric sovereignty, which cannot decide a UFO exception to anthropocentrism while preserving the ability to make such a decision. The UFO can be "known" only by not asking what it is." When Wendt and Duvall made this argument, there were a lot of titters in the audience. I chuckled, too. Nonetheless, their paper makes a persuasive case that UFOs certainly exist, even if they are not necessarily ETs. For them, the key is that no official authority takes seriously the idea that UFOs can be extraterrestrials. As they note, "considerable work goes into ignoring UFOs, constituting them as objects only of ridicule and scorn." In recent years, however, there has been a subtle shift that poses some interesting questions for their argument. For one thing, discussion of actual UFOs have been the topic of some serious mainstream media coverage. There was the December 2017 New York Times story by Helene Cooper, Ralph Blumenthal and Leslie Kean about the Defense Department's Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, which was tasked with cataloguing UFOs recorded by military pilots. DoD officials confirmed its existence. Though this story generated some justified skepticism, it represented the first time the U.S. government acknowledged the existence of such a program. Then, there were the reports last November about Oumuamua, "a mysterious, cigar-shaped interstellar object [that] fell through our solar system at an extraordinary speed," according to New York's Eric Levits. Oumuamua's shape and trajectory were unusual enough for some genuine astrophysicists to publish a paper suggesting the possibility that it was an artificial construction relying on a solar sail. Again, this prompted skeptical reactions, but even those skeptics could not completely rule out the possibility that extraterrestrial activity was involved. Then, on Monday, the New York Times came out with another story by the same reporters who broke the 2017 story: "The strange objects, one of them like a spinning top moving against the wind, appeared almost daily from the summer of 2014 to March 2015, high in the skies over the East Coast. Navy pilots reported to their superiors that the objects had no visible engine or infrared exhaust plumes, but that they could reach 30,000 feet and hypersonic speeds. " 'These things would be out there all day," said Lt. Ryan Graves, an F/A-18 Super Hornet pilot who has been with the Navy for 10 years, and who reported his sightings to the Pentagon and Congress. 'Keeping an aircraft in the air requires a significant amount of energy. With the speeds we observed, 12 hours in the air is 11 hours longer than we'd expect.'.... "No one in the Defense Department is saying that the objects were extraterrestrial, and experts emphasize that earthly explanations can generally be found for such incidents. Lieutenant Graves and four other Navy pilots, who said in interviews with The New York Times that they saw the objects in 2014 and 2015 in training maneuvers from Virginia to Florida off the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt, make no assertions of their provenance." The Times reporters broke new ground by getting pilots on record. What is interesting about this latest news cycle, however, is that DoD officials are not behaving as Wendt and Duvall would predict. Indeed, Politico's Bryan Bender reported last month that, "The U.S. Navy is drafting new guidelines for pilots and other personnel to report encounters with 'unidentified aircraft,' a significant new step in creating a formal process to collect and analyze the unexplained sightings - and destigmatize them." My Washington Post colleague Deanna Paul followed up by reporting that "Luis Elizondo, a former senior intelligence officer, told The Post that the new Navy guidelines formalized the reporting process, facilitating data-driven analysis while removing the stigma from talking about UFOs, calling it 'the single greatest decision the Navy has made in decades.' " What appears to be happening is that official organs of the state are now acknowledging that UFOs exist, even if they are not literally using the acronym. They are doing so because enough pilots are reporting UFOs and near-air collisions so as to warrant better record-keeping. They are not saying that these UFOs are extraterrestrials, but they are trying to destigmatize the reporting of a UFO. Still, the very fact that this step has been taken somewhat weakens the Wendt and Duvall thesis. This was always a two-step process: (a) Acknowledge that UFOs exist; and (b) Consider that the UFOs might be ETs. In recent years, the U.S. national security bureaucracy has met the first criterion. What happens to our understanding of the universe if great powers meet that second one? - - - Daniel W. Drezner is a professor of international politics at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. World Bank loan would also help raise farmers incomes and support development projects across the East African nation. Kenya requested the World Bank for a $750 million loan to fund affordable housing, agriculture and other development projects amid concerns the East African nation is taking on too much debt. The lender meets Tuesday to consider Kenyas request for the loan, according to a person with knowledge of the matter. The person asked not to be identified because the matter is still private. Its the first proposed so-called Development Policy Financing to support Kenyas reform program to further enhance economic growth and make it more inclusive, the lender said on its website. Some of the funding is for two of the states so-called Big Four priorities affordable housing and farmer incomes and food security while the rest will create fiscal space to allow the government to invest in key development programs; and crowd in private investment and leverage digitization to support the governments inclusive-growth agenda, the World Bank said. If approved, the financing will be hot on the heels of $2.1 billion in Eurobonds that `Kenya raised earlier this month for infrastructure projects and to retire maturing debt. In the first quarter, the government borrowed 125 billion shillings ($1.23 billion) in a syndicated loan, as part of the 299 billion shillings of commercial debt it budgeted for the 2018-19 fiscal year. Kenyas public debt reached 5.42 trillion shillings in March, according to the central bank. Public and publicly guaranteed debt was 2.72 trillion shillings while domestic debt was 2.7 trillion shillings. By the end of last year, the governments debt was 5.28 trillion shillings, equivalent to 52.7% of GDP, according to the National Treasury. -With assistance from Eric Ombok Kabul, Afghanistan The early afternoon sun falls on the tall walls of black marble, turning them grey and revealing a palette of shades, from silver to salmon pink and orange. The sand-dry mountainous landscape surrounding the quarry, on the outskirts of Kabul, magnifies its unexpected beauty. Marble is one of Afghanistans many natural resources, which with investment in the mining sector could help to put the foreign aid-dependent country on the path to economic independence in the face of US withdrawal. Rich in copper, lithium, talc, marble, gold, uranium and others, Afghanistans vast mineral wealth is estimated to exceed one trillion dollars. But according to data, every year the government loses around $300m in revenue from mining. Poor security, the lack of proper legal framework and organisational capacity, as well as corruption, have prevented the development of the sector. Deficient infrastructure makes transport and export difficult, while high royalties and taxes imposed by the Afghan government have discouraged potential investors. As a result, the mining sector currently contributes only between seven and 10 percent of Afghanistans GDP. Nematullah Sediqi, the owner of a black marble extracting company, proudly walks around his quarry, patiently explaining the extraction process. Over the past 20 years, he has invested $205m in his business, which employs 100 people. He also owns two processing factories in Kabul; the material is sold on the local market. Afghanistan has nearly one trillion dollars in untapped mineral deposits [Agnieszka Pikulicka-Wilczewska/Al Jazeera] While his business is doing relatively well, Sediqi complains that for the past four and a half years, he has been unable to expand his operations. In 2014, the government began developing a new mining law to increase transparency in the sector and review past contracts. But until April, the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum had not signed any new contracts nor had it extended any expiring ones. Weak regulation has exposed Sediqis company he is unable to invest in new mines or export products. We lost lots of time, about four years. It doesnt make a difference for us whether the old or the new law is in place, but weve lost time, Sediqi told Al Jazeera. In these four years, we would have created lots of jobs for Afghan people. Currently, joblessness is a huge problem in Afghanistan. While last month the Ministry of Mining and Petroleum announced 43 new tenders for natural resources projects across 16 provinces, including 29 for local companies, analysts have said it will take time to build trust between the government and investors. According to Integrity Watch, an Afghan transparency watchdog, the new legal framework leaves a lot to be desired and is unlikely to improve the situation in the industry. The initial intention was to review legislation, cancel bad contracts and build institutional capacity during one-year time and then do new contracts, Naser Timory, head of advocacy and communications, told Al Jazeera. However, it took the government four years to complete the mentioned tasks and therefore the majority of business was halted during this time. It affected legitimate business and probably fuelled illegal mining. He argued that the governments policy should not favour large contracts, which are difficult to oversee due to security and the political situation in the country, and rather focus on small and medium tenders for local contractors. Large foreign investments, such as the proposed Chinese copper contract in Mes Aynak, have largely failed. Timory also criticised what he described as the overly politicised nature of decision making in the mining sector, as he warned of further corruption. In late 2018, Afghanistans membership in Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), which the country joined in 2010, was suspended. Groups such as the Taliban have amassed vast sums from illegal mining [Agnieszka Pikulicka-Wilczewska/Al Jazeera] On the 2018 Transparency International Corruption Perception Index, Afghanistan ranked 172nd out of 180. Some are that poor management of the countrys wealth, coupled with poverty, have enabled armed groups and local strongmen to illegally extract resources and sell them on the black market to neighbouring countries and beyond. According to the investigation by Global Witness, both the Taliban and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant group (ISIL or ISIS) have benefited. The watchdog group estimated that the Taliban earn between $2.5m and $10m a year from mining talc alone, which has become, next to opium, their main source of revenue. Illegal mining thus helps to prolong the ongoing conflict, especially in the northern and eastern provinces where warring groups compete for the mineral wealth. Shoaib Alami, a mining expert and former investor, has personal experience in dealing with local strongmen. I had to pay double taxes and royalties for mining operations. Twice. To two groups; first the central government of Afghanistan as per legal contract with the Ministry of Mines and second to the local authorities or militias, Alami claimed in an interview with Al Jazeera. It is not always the warlords. Today they are called the anti-government establishment, the Taliban, previously there were some other names. They are in control. For six months, Alami refused to pay local strongmen royalties and taxes. In retaliation, he claims they took his workers hostage and eventually extorted payments from his companys drivers. They couldnt put any other pressure on me, so they put taxes on the drivers and the costs of transport increased, he said. In 2016, he sold his shares to his partners and quit the sector. I would assure you and bet my past experience on it that this anti-government establishment, the so-called Taliban, they would be nothing if the government was serious, Alami said. Those who allow these individuals to have this much power and put pressure on business people and miners are the ones sitting in Kabul. When asked about illegal mining, Abdul Qadeer Mutfi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum, said the government is actively trying to tackle the problem. We are working together with national security forces to address illegal mining, we already stopped 580 areas where illegal mining was run by groups and militants, he told Al Jazeera. We are trying to promote legal mining, give contracts to the local people and include the local people in the mining contracts. We already started a specific evaluation where we could hire more people to solve community problems and we provide them with jobs. According to a new mining law, five percent of revenues should be returned to locals [Agnieszka Pikulicka-Wilczewska/Al Jazeera] According to the new mining law, five percent of revenues should be invested in local communities. Oidesimkhon is a 50-year-old miner who has spent the last six years working in a coal mine in Samangan. He does not complain about the working conditions, as his employer, a government contractor, has treated him fairly. But the lack of oversight at the mine has caused problems. According to the law, the state should provide wood to the mines. They should send here engineers every day, but this is not happening, Oidesimkhon told Al Jazeera. State engineers come here once or twice a month even though controls should take place regularly. And even if they send us wood, it is usually grabbed by local warlords. Workers in other government-controlled mines have cited poor conditions, saying they are often expected to work between 10 and 12 hours without proper equipment and training. Child labour is also a recurring problem. The government does not intervene because the mines are located far away. It rents them out, but is unable to control them and hence miners rights are often disregarded, said Maroof Qaderi, president of the National Union of Afghanistans Workers and Employees. We have travelled to mines and seen what the problems are. We informed the government, the leaseholders, we went to court, protested so that peoples salaries are paid and their working times are respected. For the revival of this country, for sustaining this country and taking it out of the dependency mindset that we have developed, the way is to invest in the mining sector, said Alami, the mining expert and former investor. There is a Persian saying which says that if you want to get something done, you have to do it yourself rather than waiting for others. It is the same with Afghanistans economy, if we want to do something, we have to take the initiative. Last week 28 countries of the European Union held European parliamentary elections. Although the elected the 751-seat European parliament is not the top-decision making body in the union, its composition can significantly influence certain internal policies. The vote was also an opportunity to gauge political attitudes of the 500 million EU population. As in previous years, this EU election also demonstrated that populism has become a formidable force in European politics. Far-right and Eurosceptic parties had a strong showing, with Marine Le Pens National Rally (formerly the National Front) winning the most votes in France (23 percent) and Matteo Salvinis League Party emerging on top of the polls in Italy with 34 percent. As with various national elections that took place over the past few years, where populists either won or gained significant numbers in parliament, the EU polls raised questions once more about Russian interference. Many Europeans today ask themselves to what extent their democratic choice is undermined by Russian money and disinformation campaigns which help anti-EU populist parties score high at every election. Indeed, it is difficult to deny the fact that the Russian authorities are actively supporting such forces one simply needs to switch on the Russian broadcaster RT to get a confirmation of that. But what is the actual scale of this effort and how effective is it? There are two popular responses to this question: one, that Russia uses a number of instruments to manipulate public opinion (from hackers to trolls to media propaganda and direct financing of populists), which have proven highly effective; two, that Russia is trying hard, but its influence on the ground is minuscule and instead it is European leaders who are blowing the issue out of proportion to cover up their inability to stem the rise of destructive populism in their countries. Both points of view have their strong arguments and could be seen as valid in different European contexts. However, there are a few aspects of the Russian interference story that various investigations and studies have proven to be a fact. Some European politicians take Russian money In a number of European countries, various parties (some also in power) and political actors have received and/or are willing to receive financial support from Russia in one way or another. Ibiza-gate, the major political scandal threatening to bring down the Austrian government, is a great recent illustration of this fact. Earlier this month, two German newspapers released a video showing Heinz-Christian Strache, leader of the far-right Freedom Party (FPO), which was part of the Austrian ruling coalition, offering help to a person representing a Russian oligarch in obtaining state contracts and suggesting he purchase a major Austrian tabloid to support the FPO. Recent investigations have also revealed that the populist and Eurosceptic League Party, one of two coalition parties in the Italian government, has had financial dealings with the Kremlin. The Czech president Milos Zeman has also been the subject of close media scrutiny for having links with various Russian corporations. In France, it is already a well-known fact that in 2014 Le Pen took out loans to fund her election campaign which she never had to repay as the Russian Kremlin-linked bank which lent her the money went bankrupt. Meanwhile, there is an ongoing investigation into British businessman Arron Banks, who is suspected of channelling Russian money into the Brexit campaign. Russia trolls the EU on a large scale Russia has managed to launch and maintain large-scale disinformation campaigns on social media at a relatively low cost and has succeeded in capturing the attention of a significant number of European social media users. A recent study by US-based non-profit organisation Avaaz into networks of disinformation on Facebook contained some interesting insights. According to the report, disinformation networks removed by Facebook as a result of this investigation posted content viewed an estimated half a billion (533M) times over the last three months. This means that, on average, these networks produced content that was seen almost 6 million times per day. While it is difficult to say what the impact of these disinformation networks has been on voting patterns, given their scale, it is difficult not to believe that they have an influence on public opinion. Another interesting observation the Avaaz report makes is that together, the pages removed had almost three times more followers (5.9 million) than the pages of the main European far right and anti-EU parties, League, AfD, VOX, Brexit Party, Rassemblement National and PiS, combined (2 million). In other words, Russian trolls are much more effective in spreading disinformation, populist ideas and conspiracy theories on social media than Russian-backed European parties. They are undeniably a powerful weapon in the ongoing information wars. Ordinary Europeans readily jump on Russias bandwagon Over the past few months, I, along with journalists Anna Saraste and Anne Sophie Schroeder, took part in an independent study of Russian disinformation campaigns ahead of the EU elections. During our research, we did interviews with dozens of experts and organisations from across Europe (including Russia) which deal with monitoring disinformation in local media. One of the conclusions we drew was that people responsible for spreading disinformation are not only European politicians and public figures with close ties to Russia (whether business, financial or even family), but also individuals who are simply seeking public attention. Part of the propaganda strategy of the Kremlin is to give various conspiracy theorists and supporters of fringe ideas a platform. Thus, people of no consequence, public standing or significant academic knowledge are regularly legitimised and made into experts by being featured on RT or on Russian-sponsored websites such as Sputnik, being invited to conferences in Russia, becoming observers at elections in Crimea, etc. In return, these fakesperts enthusiastically bash Brussels and Washington and praise Moscow, helping it spread its propaganda. To go back to the question posed in the title of the piece: did Putin win the EU elections? Well, not really. Although populist Eurosceptics won a significant number of votes, they still did not achieve the sweeping victory they had hoped for. Le Pens party, for example, lost 1.5 percent compared to the 2014 EU vote, while Austrias scandal-ridden FPO 2 percent; Alternative for Germany (AfD) performed worse compared to the national elections in 2017; and the Party for Freedom of Geert Wilders in the Netherlands did not win any seats this year. There could be a number of explanations for this stall in populist resurgence in Europe, one is certainly the activation of moderate voters who in previous elections would not show up to the polling stations. This year, they responded to the public call of politicians and civic activists to stand up to the far right, which resulted in a significantly higher turnout (nearly 51 percent) in comparison to the previous vote (42 percent). So while the likes of Le Pen and Salvini are claiming victory of the people, perhaps this election marks the beginning of the end of the populist wave that has swept through Europe. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance. Latest bombardment comes as UN warns of catastrophe for three million caught in the crossfire in the besieged region. More than 20 civilians were killed on Tuesday as the Syrian government continued its relentless bombardment against the last rebel stronghold in the countrys northwest. The latest attacks came as the United Nations denounced world powers for doing nothing to halt the bloodshed and destruction. A month of intensified bombing of the region by Syria and its ally Russia has killed 229 civilians and wounded 727 others, according to the Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations (UOSSM) medical charity. Nine children were among the 21 killed in government fire on several towns in Idlib province and the countryside of neighbouring Aleppo on Tuesday, said the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor. Civil defence agency rescuers who work in opposition-held territory put the death toll at 24. Attacks on a busy street in the village of Kafr Halab, on the western edge of Aleppo province, killed at least nine civilians, the Observatory said. An AFP photographer confirmed seeing the bodies of victims. The street was crowded with people before breaking their daytime fast observed by Muslims during the holy month of Ramadan when it was attacked. Idlib and parts of the neighbouring provinces of Aleppo, Hama and Latakia are under the control of Hayet Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), formerly the Syrian al-Qaeda affiliate, which the Syrian government has vowed to destroy. Caught in the crossfire A hospital in the Idlib town of Kafranbel was also hit by artillery fire and out of commission, said David Swanson, a spokesman for the UN humanitarian office. At least 20 health facilities have been hit by the escalation 19 of which remain out of service. About 200,000 people have now fled the region for safety, according to the UN. The deputy UN humanitarian chief warned further military operations in northwest threaten an estimated three million people caught in the crossfire. Ursula Mueller told the Security Council on Tuesday that humanitarian operations in many areas where there are active hostilities have been suspended. She said that includes services previously supporting some 600,000 people. Mueller, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterress top humanitarian affairs official, lambasted the Security Council for a history of inaction in Syria, questioning what it will do to prevent another catastrophe, this time in the northwest. Cant this council take any concrete action when attacks on schools and hospitals have become a war tactic that no longer sparks outrage? Is there nothing to be said or done when indiscriminate barrel bombs are dropped in civilian areas? Mueller said. Scorched earth The United States, meanwhile, said it continues to be alarmed by Syrian government and Russian air raids in northwest Syria and believes they are a reckless escalation of violence. Indiscriminate attacks on civilians and public infrastructure such as schools, markets and hospitals is a reckless escalation of the conflict and is unacceptable, said State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus. The violence must end. New satellite imagery provided by DigitalGlobe Inc showed plumes of dark smoke rising from the countryside around al-Habeet village in Idlib and the small town of Kafr Nabuda in Hama. The images showed patches of scorched earth, fields blackened by fire, and clusters of destroyed buildings. Some of the fires appeared to be still burning. The Civil Defence in the northwest, a rescue service in opposition territory, said on Monday that government warplanes had been pounding crop fields in Idlib, setting them on fire. Syrian state news agency SANA said on Tuesday that rebels had shelled villages in the northern Hama countryside, damaging houses and burning wheat fields. The army onslaught in the northwest over the past month marks the most intense escalation between Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his rebel enemies since last summer. Buenos Aires In scenes that were repeated across Argentina, thousands of people streamed along the arteries of the capital city of Buenos Aires on Tuesday for a massive demonstration that marked the next chapter in the fight to legalise abortion in the country. Defiantly thrusting arms brandishing the campaigns emblematic green handkerchief up in the air, the crowd converged before the National Congress, where the new project to legalise abortion up to 14 weeks of pregnancy was officially presented. Lara Ruiz, who stood outside the National Congress on Tuesday, knows just how close to home the fight for access to abortion can hit in Argentina. A couple of months ago, while at home with her mother, a news item appeared on television about the new project. It led Ruizs mother to share with her 17-year-old daughter that when she was her age, she had tried to clandestinely abort an unexpected pregnancy. It wasnt easy for her, and she had no one to turn to, Ruiz told Al Jazeera. Shes very proud that I am here, fighting for a right that she didnt have. The new project is similar to the one that nearly won approval last year, passing the lower house, the Chamber of Deputies, but ultimately failing in the upper house, the Senate. Abortion in Argentina is only legal in instances of rape or if the mothers health is at risk. This years legislation proposes that women or other identities with the ability to gestate have access to legal, safe, publicly funded abortions in the first 14 weeks of a pregnancy. It also seeks to decriminalise the termination of a pregnancy, which can currently land a woman in jail, and does not allow for a medical practitioner to declare a conscientious objection to the process. 190527195253166 This is a question of health, said Monica Menini, a feminist lawyer and member of the commission that drafted the new legislation, at a press conference at the Congress. Because we put our bodies, and we die and we end up mutilated. Because its a question of human rights. Because we cant keep allowing girls to give birth. Because its a question of social justice. The press conference included representatives from a range of political parties in Argentina, and was punctuated by chants of aborto legal ya legal abortion now. Asea of green surrounded the front of the National Congress on Tuesday afternoon, as women formed small circles on the pavement, passing the traditional drink called mate, around, and applying green glitter or lipstick on each others faces. Tents and banners belonging to numerous left-wing political parties offered pamphlets on various campaigns, as chants, music and the smoke from grills serving up choripans (a typical Argentine sausage) rose in the air. Activists with green handkerchiefs demonstrate to mark the revival of their campaign to legalize abortion, in front of the National Congress in Buenos Aires, on May 28, 2019 [Emiliano LasSalvia/AFP] If approved by politicians, Argentina would become the most populous country to legalise abortion in Latin America, a region with strict anti-abortion laws rooted in Catholic doctrine. That presence was also felt on Tuesday, with a small group of anti-abortion rights campaigners reciting the rosary through a megaphone at the corner of the square. Police had set up a line separating them from the main demonstration after pro-legalisation campaigners complained that they were being harassed by their opponents. 190423111047977 The idea is to show that we are also here, rejecting the project, in a passive way, said Facundo Gauto. He added that anti-abortion rights activists were there to defend the life of the person who has yet to be born, but they also work in the area of prevention. A woman is obviously not going to abort because shes bored. Shes going to abort because she unexpectedly got pregnant, he told Al Jazeera. We think that the state, rather than approve this project, needs to invest in health and education so that kids know how to use contraceptives. They cant delay Rosana Fanjul, a member of the legalisation campaign, and the granddaughter of Dora Koladesky, one of the pioneers of the movement, said the fight is in her blood. 190220143549930 She told Al Jazeera the abortion debate is the axis on which all sorts of issues regarding women turn in Argentina. Weve started questioning a lot of things, like abuse, how women are treated generally, our lack of representation in different areas of leadership. The question of equality has opened up in all sorts of arenas that have nothing to do with abortion, Fanjul said. Although she doesnt think the political will is there this year to approve the project, because it is an election year, she believes Argentinas leaders know legalisation is inevitable. The new generation have already assumed this as one of their rights, and they know that if its not this year, it will be the next one or the next, she said. They cant delay this. Beijing and Moscow will boycott the meeting being organised as part of backchannel Palestine-Israel peace plan. Chinese Ambassador to Palestine Guo Wei said his country, along with Russia, would not participate in a US-sponsored meeting in Manama slated for June 25 and 26, according to Palestines WAFA news agency. Wei reportedly made the remarks at a meeting in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah with Nabil Shaath, a top adviser to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. Boycotting the Bahrain conference comes within the framework of a bilateral Russian-Chinese agreement not to participate in it, Wei was quoted as saying. According to the news agency, Wei had stressed Beijings position in support of the Palestinian cause and people, including their right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state of Palestine within the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. Early last week, the US announced plans to hold a landmark conference in Manama, where Trump administration officials are expected to unveil economic aspects of the Deal of the Century, a US backchannel Palestine-Israel peace plan, the terms of which have yet to be made public. The Manama meeting will reportedly be chaired by Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trumps senior adviser and son-in-law, and Jason Greenblatt, Trumps Middle East envoy. Along with host Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have both announced their intention to send representatives to the event. The meeting is expected to be attended by a host of finance officials and business leaders from several countries. The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), for its part, says it was never consulted about the planned meeting and has stated its refusal to take part in the event. Last week, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh said the meeting would not address the core political issues of the conflict: final borders, the status of Jerusalem, or the fate of Palestinian refugees. Any solution to the conflict in Palestine must be political and based on ending the occupation, he said. Ever since Trumps controversial decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israels capital in late 2017, the Palestinian leadership has rejected all US peacemaking efforts. Authorities say the prisoners found dead in the Amazonas state showed signs of asphyxia and stab wounds. More than 55 inmates have been found dead over the last two days in separate prisons in northern Brazil, authorities said on Monday. The majority of the victims was found in the Antonio Trindade Penal Institute near Manaus, the capital of Amazonas state, where the facilities in question are located. The Amazonas state prison agency said the prisoners found dead on Monday all showed signs of asphyxia. The federal government said it was sending reinforcements to boost security in the states prisons. Later on Monday, a statement from the Amazonas state penitentiary department revised the number of deaths to 40 from an earlier 42 and said authorities had regained control of the four prisons. No other details were provided. Mondays clashes took place a day after 15 inmates were killed during riots at Manaus Anisio Jobim Prison Complex, authorities said. Those clashes broke out about 11:00am (15:00 GMT) during visiting hours at the facility, located about 28km from Manaus. It was a fight between the inmates. There had never been deaths during the visits, Colonel Marcos Vinicius Almeida told a news conference on Sunday. 190112145044861 An investigation has been opened to determine the cause of the fight, Almeida said. Almeida emphasised that authorities had reacted within minutes to the Sunday violence, preventing a potentially worse result. In January 2017, the same facility was the scene of a prison rebellion that lasted almost 20 hours and left 56 people dead. Relatives of inmates react in front of a prison complex in the Brazilian state of Amazonas [Bruno Kelly/Reuters] Brazil has the worlds third-largest prison population, with 726,712 inmates as of June 2016, according to official statistics. The population is double the capacity of the nations prisons, which in the same year was estimated to be 368,049 inmates. Along with severe overcrowding, Brazils prisons are plagued by gang violence, while riots and breakout attempts are not uncommon. Top Tories lay down Brexit lines, while a former Labour spin doctor is dumped after voting for the Liberal Democrats. The frontrunners in the race to be Britains next prime minister competed on Tuesday to establish their narratives over Brexit the issue which has defined British politics for the past three years. Prime Minister Theresa May last week announced plans to resign on June 7, triggering a leadership contest in the ruling Conservative Party. Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab, the principal hard-Brexiters among the contenders to succeed May, have argued that the UK must leave the European Union on October 31, even without a withdrawal deal. Another leading candidate, Defence Secretary Jeremy Hunt, said leaving the EU without a deal would see the Conservative Party annihilated at the next general election. 190524164357221 The British parliament has twice voted against no-deal, but it remains the default legal position without a further extension to Article 50, which would have to be agreed by EU leaders. Parliament has also three times voted against the Withdrawal Agreement reached between Theresa Mays administration and the EU. Conservative leadership hopefuls may have few options, though, given the EUs consistent reluctance to reopen the agreement. There will be no renegotiation, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said as he arrived at an EU summit in Brussels on Tuesday. Whats next? The choice remains between the current deal, widely opposed across parliament; a no-deal Brexit, also opposed by Parliament; and not leaving the EU at all. The final scenario is an option which horrifies the Conservative MP Michael Gove, also vying for the top job. 190526140332602 We must leave the EU before we have an election, Gove said on Twitter on Tuesday, saying the opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn could end up as prime minister with support from Scottish nationalists. Otherwise we will be punished at the ballot box, Corbyn will be in Number 10 propped up by the SNP, and Brexit may well be reversed altogether. The no-deal option, preferred by former Work and Pensions Secretary Esther McVey who wrote in The Telegraph on Sunday that she wants a clean break and trade on WTO terms which add huge costs to most British exports, was dealt another blow on Tuesday, as House of Commons Speaker John Bercow insisted parliament would be given a vote to block any no-deal scenario. The idea the House wont have its say is for the birds, he said in a speech in Washington, DC. A general election appears likely, sooner or later, with Chancellor Philip Hammond on Monday threatening to collapse any Conservative government pursuing a no-deal Brexit through a vote of no-confidence. Such is the state of the Conservative Party, hardline Brexiters could also threaten to bring down any administration pushing a softer Brexit than they would like. Divisions of Labour As Conservatives firmed up the dividing lines between them on Tuesday, the opposition Labour Party also demonstrated its capacity for division, expelling former top spin doctor Alastair Campbell. Campbell, former Prime Minister Tony Blairs communications chief in the build-up to the Iraq war, was given the boot after admitting to voting for the Liberal Democrats in the recent European Parliament elections because of their support for a second Brexit referendum. 3. I am and always will be Labour. I voted Lib Dem, without advance publicity, to try to persuade Labour to do right thing for country/party. In light of appeal, I won't be doing media on this. But hard not to point out difference in the way anti-Semitism cases have been handled. ALASTAIR CAMPBELL (@campbellclaret) May 28, 2019 It was also announced on Tuesday that Labour is being investigated over claims of anti-Semitism by Britains Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). We are pleased that the Labour party has committed to cooperate fully with this investigation, said a statement from the commission. In what seems to be coincidental timing, the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) on Tuesday wrote to the EHRC to formally request an investigation into alleged Islamophobia within the Conservative Party. The MCB allege around 150 representatives and members of the party including members of parliament such as Boris Johnson and Michael Gove had engaged in Islamophobia, creating an atmosphere of hostility and denying there is an issue within the party. The Conservative Party has yet to formally respond to the letter. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang's Regular Press Conference on May 28, 2019 2019/05/28 Q: The media yesterday quoted China's Ambassador to Palestine saying that China would not be attending the meeting organized by the United States on financial aids for the Palestinians to be held in Bahrain in June. Can you confirm and explain why not? A: I am not aware of that and China has not received a formal invitation to the meeting. But I am sure you know that the Chinese government's position on the question of Palestine is clear and consistent. We believe that international consensus and principles including the "two-state solution", relevant UN resolutions, the principle of "land for peace" and the Arab Peace Initiative should be adhered to. The international community should keep up efforts to promote peace, try its best to build consensus and ensure that the voice and propositions of parties concerned, especially Palestine, are heeded. Q: We noted that the fifth China-US Governors Forum concluded in Lexington, Kentucky on May 24. Could you share more information with us? A: Indeed, this forum attracted much attention in both China and the US and the number of participants was quite high. Just like you said, the fifth China-US Governors Forum was successfully held in Lexington, Kentucky from May 23 to 24. It was a lively and fruitful forum. Under the theme of "toward a better future for China-US relations", many events were organized. About 400 delegates attended the forum, consisting of, from the Chinese side, leaders from the CPAFFC, Chongqing Municipality, Shaanxi Province, Jiangxi Province, Gansu Province and the Chinese Embassy in the US, and from the US side, leaders from the Department of Education and 19 states, including Kentucky, Tennessee, Colorado, Michigan, Washington, etc. Delegates focused on such areas as trade, investment, education, culture, advanced manufacturing and infrastructure and had in-depth discussions on how to promote the sound and steady development of China-US relations through sub-national exchange and cooperation. Sub-national governments, businesses and education institutions signed a series of deals on enhancing friendly relations and strengthening cooperation in agriculture, energy and education. Local officials and business leaders from the US emphasized in their speeches the importance of China-US relations, voiced support for exchange and cooperation between local governments and other sectors, and called for a proper settlement of differences and friction to ensure the steady development of the bilateral relationship. The active participation of both sides shows once again that exchange and cooperation is a shared aspiration and invincible trend. We stand ready to work with the US for greater benefits to our peoples by deepening sub-national and across-the-board exchange and cooperation. Q: A Chinese delegation attended the ministerial meeting of the 75th session of UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), which was held from May 27 to 28 in Bangkok, Thailand. How do you view this meeting? A: ESCAP is the most influential UN agency for regional economic and social development. The theme for this year's session is "empowering people and ensuring inclusiveness and equality". Assistant Foreign Minister Zhang Jun attended the meeting as head of the Chinese delegation, participated in the discussions of all agenda items and elaborated on China's position on important issues. The world economy, international order and international fairness and justice are dealt a heavy blow by unilateralism and protectionism. Against such a backdrop, as Assistant Foreign Minister Zhang Jun emphasized, the ESCAP needs to stay true to its founding purposes, move toward the right direction and take effective measures to foster an open, inclusive and favorable environment for regional development. It is all the more important for regional countries to uphold multilateralism, deepen partnership, foster an open economy for inclusive development, step up connectivity for better implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, advance innovation-driven development and create more growth drivers. Assistant Foreign Minister Zhang Jun specifically stated China's opposition to the abuse of national power to oppress foreign innovative companies, intervention in business operation and distortion of global markets. China's proposals were echoed by other participants. They spoke highly of China's contributions to Asia-Pacific economic cooperation and the 2030 Agenda, applauded its efforts in upholding multilateralism and fostering an open world economy, and expressed readiness to work with it for deeper cooperation under ESCAP and regional sustainable development and people's well-being. On the sidelines of the session, China co-hosted a thematic meeting on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with Thailand, Kazakhstan and the ESCAP secretariat, where more than 150 representatives from over 30 countries shared experience in successful BRI cooperation. They all agree that the BRI is a road of opportunities, prosperity and sustainable development, and support China's visions and efforts in high-quality BRI cooperation. Faced with great uncertainties, the world is seeing hope from the win-win cooperation and shared benefits championed by the BRI, which has already produced positive effects. The BRI, dovetailing with the 2030 Agenda, will play an even bigger role in and open up greater space for world economic growth, people's welfare and sustainable development. Q: Its was reported that China's envoy to Palestine Guo Wei said yesterday that China will not attend an international conference in Bahrain in June where the US will lay out its Israeli-Palestinian peace plan. I wonder if you could confirm and explain why China is not going to attend? A: Reuters just asked the same question. Would you like me to repeat my answer? I am not aware of that. China has not received a formal invitation to the meeting. The Chinese government's position on the question of Palestine is clear and consistent. We believe that international consensus and principles including the "two-state solution", relevant UN resolutions, the principle of "land for peace" and the Arab Peace Initiative should be adhered to. The international community should keep up efforts to promote peace, try its best to converge consensus and ensure that the voice and propositions of parties concerned, especially Palestine, are heeded. Q: Huawei's founder and chief executive Ren Zhengfei said that he is against any Chinese retaliation against Apple. If that happens, he would be the first to protest. How do you comment on that? A: I have taken note of relevant media reports. Like I said last week, for a company, a broad mind sees a vast world. Q: As far as I know, a high-level DPRK official arrived in Beijing today. Can you confirm that? Will he meet with the Chinese side? A: As friendly neighbors, China and the DPRK maintain regular bilateral exchange. Regarding your question, I don't have any information for you at the moment. Q: We just got the news. There was an accident involving a tourist bus with 84 people on board including Chinese passengers in the Russian Far East. Do you have any information on this? A: I haven't heard of what you said yet, but since you mentioned there might be Chinese nationals involved, we will closely follow up on that and update you when we have more information. Thank you for sharing the news. Q: The US Embassy in China issued a statement saying that during Ambassador Branstad's recent visit to the Tibet Autonomous Region, he encouraged the Chinese government to engage in dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his representatives, and expressed concerns regarding religious freedom and the Americans' access to Tibet. I wonder if you have any comment? A: As we said earlier here, Ambassador Branstad recently visited the Tibet Autonomous Region. According to my information, leaders of the autonomous region and Lhasa city met with him. He also visited local communities, educational and cultural institutions and religious venues. The Chinese side elaborated on the government's ethnic and religious policies and the socio-economic development in Tibet and made clear the central government's policies on engaging the 14th Dalai Lama and on foreign visits to the autonomous region. We stressed our opposition to any foreign interference in China's internal affairs and the affairs of the Tibet Autonomous Region. Ambassador Branstad thanked the government of the autonomous region for a warm and friendly reception. He made positive comments on Tibet's economic and social development and said that the visit has led to better understanding of Tibet. Q: Recently there have been reports on a warming relationship between Taiwan and the US. For instance, US warships sailed through the Taiwan Strait; the Coordination Council for North American Affairs (CCNAA) was renamed the Taiwan Council for US Affairs (TCUSA); Taiwan's security chief David Lee met with US National Security Adviser John Bolton. Since the phrase "maximum pressure" has been frequently used in the context of China-US trade talks, do you think the closer ties with Taiwan is part of the US "maximum pressure" on China? Second question, besides expressing strong opposition and urging the US to abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, has China taken diplomatic countermeasures? A: You know the Chinese government's position very well. Let me reiterate that the one-China principle is the political basis for the development of China-US relations in the past four decades. Only when the US strictly abides by this principle and the three joint communiques can there be sound development in bilateral relations and good cooperation on important issues. The US knows that very well. Therefore, regarding the recent wrong moves relating to Taiwan, China has stated its solemn position to the US side and urged it to honor its commitment under the bilateral political framework to avoid disrupting our relationship and cooperation in key areas. Q: First, ROK media earlier reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping would visit the ROK in June, but that was canceled later. Could you comment on that? Second, when will President Xi visit the DPRK? A: On your first question, I never heard of the planned visit or the cancellation. On your second question, China and the DPRK are good neighbors with normal friendly exchange, including at the high level. I understand ROK reporters are particularly interested in this topic, so we will keep you updated if there is any information. Q: It has been reported that two TV anchors, one from China and one from the US, plan to hold a debate on China-US trade friction in English at 8 a.m. Thursday. Do you have any comment? A: I think it's a good idea. I, too, am very interested. I hope you will also stay tuned to it. You know, as our Chinese adage goes, truth will emerge clearer from debates. Qatar-based journalists continued detention comes despite an Egyptian court ruling last week to release him. In the middle of being processed for release, Al Jazeera journalist Mahmoud Hussein has instead been returned to prison in Egypt under unclear circumstances. Husseins family said in a statement on Tuesday that a new investigation has been opened against the journalist, who has already spent more than 880 days behind bars without charge. An Egyptian court on Thursday had upheld a May 21 decision to release Hussein under precautionary measures which would have restricted his movements, but freed him from jail. The Qatar-based journalist was transferred from southern Cairos Tora prison to a holding cell in Giza on Saturday where he awaited final clearance from the National Security Agencys office. After spending a night at the police station, the family was surprised to learn that Mahmoud had been taken to the office of the prosecutor for state security, the statement read. The family then waited on Sunday for Hussein to be released from the police station as they were told that the visit to the state securitys office was part of the release formalities. However, he was taken back to Tora prison, the family statement said, and that no official reason was given for his continued detention. No charges, no trial The journalist has been in custody since 2016 without facing formal charges or a trial. He has not been convicted of anything. Hussein, an Egyptian national who works for the Al Jazeera Arabic television channel based in Qatar, was arrested on arrival on December 20, 2016, while travelling to Egypt to visit his family. 190523100017910 Hussein was accused of incitement against state institutions and broadcasting false news with the aim of spreading chaos, allegations he and the Al Jazeera Media Network deny. Gamal Eid, executive director of the Arabic Network for Human Rights Information, said under Egyptian law Hussein should have been freed within 24 hours of Thursdays release order by the court. This is a final court ruling but the problem is that security forces delay releases when they do not like those freed, Eid told Al Jazeera last week. Husseins detention was in violation of both Egyptian and international laws, with the former setting 24 months as the maximum period for pre-trial detention. Egyptian authorities have repeatedly renewed his two-year detention. According to Husseins lawyer Taher Abul Nasr there are at least 20,000 people currently in detention without charge in Egypt for political reasons. Hundreds of them have already exceeded the legal two-year pre-trial term, he said. Arbitrary detention In February, the United Nations called Husseins jailing arbitrary detention, saying the appropriate remedy would be to release Mr Hussein immediately. Since the overthrow of Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi in 2013, a senior member of the Muslim Brotherhood, Al Jazeera Media Network has been portrayed as Egypts national enemy for its coverage of the group. That same year Egypt arrested and later imprisoned Al Jazeeras Abdullah Elshamy, Baher Mohamed, Mohamed Fahmy and Peter Greste on charges of spreading false news cases that were widely condemned by international media outlets and many politicians. All have since been freed. A former editor-in-chief of Al Jazeera Arabic was sentenced to death in absentia for purportedly endangering national security. Several other Al Jazeera journalists have also been charged in absentia of spreading lies and supporting terrorists a reference to the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood organisation. Since his coup removed Morsi, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has waged an unprecedented crackdown on dissent, arresting thousands and rolling back freedoms won after the 2011 uprising that ended decades of rule by Hosni Mubarak. In 2017, the Egyptian government blocked access to Al Jazeeras news website along with dozens of others it deemed too critical of Sisis regime. According to a 2018 report by the New York-based Committee to Protest Journalists, Egypt, along with Turkey and China, was responsible for more than half of journalists jailed around the world for the third year in a row. Reporters Without Borders ranked Egypt 163rd out of 180 in its 2019 Press Freedom Index. Soldiers were plotting to overthrow President Adama Barrow in 2017 with the help of his ousted predecessor, court said. A court martial in The Gambia has sentenced eight former soldiers to jail for plotting to overthrow President Adama Barrow in 2017 with the help of his ousted predecessor. The soldiers were led by a former military aide to former president Yahya Jammeh, who ruled the West African country for 22 years before losing an election in late 2016 to Barrow and then refusing to step down. The plotters, who had pleaded not guilty, were charged with nine counts including treason for conspiring to detain ministers and military officials, and attack an international force that had been set up in The Gambia to retain order after Jammehs rancorous departure. Seven of the accused received a nine-year sentence and one got three years. They were in contact with former president Jammeh over the messaging service WhatsApp and discussed attacking troops in areas of the country still considered loyal to the former president, according to the court martial records. Rights groups and the current government say Jammehs 22-year rule was marred by human rights abuses and fraud, allegations Jammeh denies. Kuwait City, Kuwait Reams of documents sit on the shelves at the Aljazzafs house, a testament to decades spent in search of the familys youngest son, Jamal, who was abducted by Iraqi forces in February 1991, just before the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait ended. Sultan and Faisal Aljazzaf have worked tirelessly to find their younger brother, meeting politicians, military men and intelligence agents to try to get answers. They even managed to meet Jordans former King Hussein bin Talal, asking him to intervene with Saddam Hussein still in power in Iraq at the time to resolve the issue of hundreds of Kuwaitis who had been missing since his countrys invasion of Kuwait. The fall of Saddam While some Kuwaitis were hopeful after Hussein was overthrown in the 2003 US invasion of Iraq, their hopes were soon dashed. There was no real closure for the Aljazzaf family either. An Iraqi intelligence officer told us that military forces killed them all before the fall of the regime, Faisal Aljazzaf told Al Jazeera, with tears running down his face. Sultan and Faisal Aljazzaf are still looking for their brother, 30 years on [Sebastian Castelier/Al Jazeera] While the Aljazzaf family refuses to give up the search, many other families have resigned themselves to the loss of their loved ones. After the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait ended, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) set up two committees, the Tripartite Commission and its Technical Sub-Committee, to encourage information-sharing and the search for new information, and to monitor search missions conducted in Iraq. There are a number of challenges to their work, given how much time has passed since the end of the conflict. Iraq has seen major upheavals since the 1990s, witnesses are hard to find, archive material has been lost, and the landscape itself has changed, making recovering the remains of missing individuals even more difficult. 150802065833437 Many of the families of Kuwaits disappeared believe former officials in Saddams regime are denying the crimes committed by their secret services out of fear of being held accountable. However, according to Dorothea Krimitsas of ICRC Kuwait, Iraq is fully cooperating with the mechanism, and meetings are held several times a year. This page of our history Younger Kuwaitis are not taught about the hundreds who went missing during the Iraqi invasion, it is not part of their history lessons. And, for some, it is better that it stays that way. We should forget and delete this page of our history. If we keep thinking about it, future generations may fight again, said Bader Muhareb al-Deeri, whose brother Nawaf disappeared during the war. Al-Deeri still cries when he talks about his brother, almost three decades after he was taken. He was gentle, caring, honest and respected by our neighbours. Why did they kill him? Bader Muhareb al-Deeri holds his brothers identity card [Sebastian Castelier/Al Jazeera] Unlike the Aljazzafs, who still refuse to accept the idea that their brother could be dead, al-Deeri has moved on and allowed a Kuwaiti court to issue Nawafs death certificate. Ameena and Mohammed al-Drees are still hopeful that their father, Khaled, is alive somewhere in Iraq, even though he has not been seen since January 2, 1991, when he was arrested by Iraqi forces who accused him of rebelling against the Iraqi invasion. 2010729152112297821 His children refuse to believe the Iraqi army killed him. Where is the evidence? Why dont they find my fathers bones? Ameena asked Al Jazeera. One of the amnesiac men in the street of Baghdad could be my father, Mohammed said. What if he comes down the street? I dont know if I would even recognise him. We want to tell him that he has grandsons. Ameena and Mohammed Khaled al-Drees show a photo of their father in Salmiya [Sebastian Castelier/Al Jazeera] The Martyrs Office The families that have resigned themselves to the death of their loved ones have the support of Kuwaits Martyrs Office, a public institution that supports the families of the 946 people killed during the invasion. The office provides the families with social, educational, health, and housing support, giving them the help they need to move on without their loved ones who were often the primary providers. 201072914823158361 Badria al-Motyry retired from the prison administration and has been a volunteer for the Martyrs Office for 13 years. She tells the story of a mother so distraught by the disappearance of her son she would sit and speak to his photo every night. I had to work with her for about three years, telling that she should never forget her son, but [she should] also allow herself to live a life, al-Motyry told Al Jazeera. The Kuwaiti flag flies over the Al-Qurain Martyrs Museum, a modest memorial to a cell of young Kuwaitis who unsuccessfully tried to fight against Iraqi forces during the Gulf War [Sebastian Castelier/Al Jazeera] Thirteen years ago, al-Motyry was supporting about 50 families at the Martyrs Office. Today, the number has gone down to about 20. The wounds are partially healing, she said. The matter of seeking closure for the families of the disappeared is not entirely closed, with the UN Security Council asking Iraq in February to do more to find the remains of those missing. But the Aljazzaf family and others like them are not putting much stock in what the UN is doing, saying these recent developments do not mean anything. How and when these families will find the closure that allows them to reconcile with the disappearance of their loved ones remains to be seen, nearly three decades after the end of the war. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has hit out at the United States after President Donald Trump said Washington was not looking for regime change in Iran but was only interested in preventing Tehran from getting nuclear weapons. In a Twitter post on Monday, Zarif insisted Iran was not seeking nuclear weapons and accused the US, which has recently beefed up its military presence in the Middle East, of causing regional tensions and hurting the Iranian people. Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei long ago said were not seeking nuclear weapons by issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them, Zarif tweeted. Ayatollah @khamenei_ir long ago said we're not seeking nuclear weaponsby issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them.#B_Team's #EconomicTerrorism is hurting the Iranian people & causing tension in the region. Actionsnot wordswill show whether or not that's @realDonaldTrump's intent Javad Zarif (@JZarif) May 27, 2019 His comments came after Trump said on Monday during a trip to Japan that a deal with Iran on its nuclear programme was possible, crediting economic sanctions for curbing activities Washington has said are behind a spate of attacks in the Middle East. 190515103122141 We arent looking for regime change I just want to make that clear. We are looking for no nuclear weapons, Trump told reporters during a news conference with Japans Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo. I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal, and I think thats very smart of them, and I think thats a possibility to happen, he said. It has a chance to be a great country with the same leadership. In response, Zarif tweeted: Actions not words will show whether or not thats @realDonaldTrumps intent, Zarif added, referencing the US presidents Twitter handle. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in October the US was seeking regime change in Iran, adding that the Trump administration was the most hostile that the Islamic Republic had faced in its four decades. Al Jazeeras Zein Basravi, reporting from Tehran, said Iranian leaders were likely to see the softer rhetoric from Trump as insincere, pointing to aggressive economic sanctions and a military build-up in the region as the true measures of US intentions towards to Iran. He added: Experts say that in the absence of any real goals, talking with the US would be just for the sake of talking. So as long as a reduction of sanctions remains highly unlikely Iranian leaders are expected to maintain the policy of not negotiating with the Trump White House. For the moment, they are focusing their diplomatic energy on reaching out to regional partners to try to strike up some kind of security cooperation that endeavours to elbow out the US. Tensions have risen between the two countries after a US decision earlier this month to send an aircraft carrier attack force and B-52 bombers in a show of force against what Washingtons leaders said they believed was an imminent Iranian plan to attack US assets. The US, a firm backer of Tehrans regional rival Saudi Arabia, has also announced plans to deploy an additional 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict. 190526091112937 It says the latest reinforcements are in response to a campaign of recent attacks including a rocket launched into the Green Zone in Baghdad, explosive devices that damaged four tankers near the entrance to the Gulf, and drone attacks by Yemeni rebels on a key Saudi oil pipeline. Iran has denied any involvement in the attacks. Trump, on a four-day visit to Japan, welcomed Abes help in dealing with Iran after broadcaster NHK said the prime minister was considering a trip to Tehran as early as mid-June. Iran said a visit was unlikely in the near future. I know for a fact that the prime minister is very close with the leadership of Iran, and well see what happens, Trump said. At his joint news conference with Trump, Abe said Japan would do what it could on the Iran issue. Trump last year withdrew the US from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, and is ratcheting up sanctions seeking to end Irans international sales of crude oil and strangle its economy. Japan was a major buyer of Iranian oil for decades before US sanctions which Trump said were taking effect. They were fighting in many locations, he said of Iran. Now they are pulling back because they have serious economic problems. Comments by Iranian official in Qatar come as John Bolton arrives in UAE for talks on important security matters. Iran is ready to engage in dialogue with Gulf Arab countries to address escalating tensions in the Middle East, its deputy foreign minister said on Tuesday. Abbas Araqchi made the comments on a visit to neighbouring Qatar where he met Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in the capital, Doha. Both sides expressed their concern about escalations and problems in the region, a Qatari foreign ministry statement said. Tensions have risen between Iran on one side and the United States and its Gulf allies Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on the other. Washington has deployed a carrier strike group and bombers, and announced plans to deploy 1,500 US troops to the Middle East prompting fears of a conflict. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trumps National Security Adviser John Bolton who has been accused of promoting regime change in Iran arrived in the UAE on Tuesday before talks scheduled for Wednesday. Just landed in the UAE. Looking forward to meeting with our Emirati allies tomorrow to discuss important and timely regional security matters. John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) May 28, 2019 A war of words between Iran and the US escalated after attacks this month on oil tankers in the Gulf. Washington blamed the attacks on Tehran, which denied the accusations. Bolton said last week the US had deep and serious intelligence on threats posed by Iran, but did not provide details. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif earlier hit out at the US after Trump said Washington was not looking for regime change in Iran but was only interested in preventing it from obtaining nuclear weapons. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in October the US was seeking regime change in Iran, adding the Trump administration was the most hostile the Islamic Republic had faced in its four decades. If the US wants talks with Iran, the starting point is returning to the 2015 nuclear deal, says the foreign ministry. Iran says theres no prospect of talks with the United States unless Donald Trump recommits to the 2015 nuclear agreement. The Iranian government says the US withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal has shown negotiating with Americans is a fools errand and, as long as a meaningful reduction of sanctions remains unlikely, talking is a waste of time. Irans foreign minister, Abbas Mousavi, said that Iran was more interested in behaviour than rhetoric. Al Jazeeras Zein Basravi reports from Tehran. Karam el-Harchaoui and Brahim Nejara are among six Frenchmen handed capital punishment in Iraq for ISIL membership. Iraq has sentenced two more French ISIL members to death and their execution is expected within three days. Tuesdays ruling brings the total number of French former members of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) to six. The men identified as Karam el-Harchaoui and Brahim Nejara, both in their 30s are among a group of 12 French citizens who were captured by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in neighbouring Syria and handed over to Iraq in January. Four other French ISIL members identified as Mustapha Merzoughi, Kevin Gonot, Leonard Lopez and Salim Machou were sentenced to death on Sunday and Monday. Iraqi courts have placed on trial hundreds of foreigners, condemning many to life in prison and others to death, although foreign ISIL members have not yet been executed. The trials have been criticised by rights groups, which say they often rely on evidence obtained through torture. They have also raised the question of whether suspected ISIL fighters should be tried in the region or repatriated, in the face of strong public opposition at home. French position Frances Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said earlier on Tuesday that his government was working to spare the group of condemned Frenchmen from execution after Iraq sentenced them to death, though France has made no effort to bring back the captured ISIL fighters. Drian also reiterated Frances position but said the ISIL members should be tried where they committed their crimes. We are multiplying efforts to avoid the death penalty for these French people, he said on France Inter radio. He did not elaborate, but said he spoke to Iraqs president about the case. France is outspoken against the death penalty globally. The sentencings in Iraq come amid a controversy about the legal treatment of thousands of foreign fighters who joined ISIL in Syria and Iraq. SDF, a Kurdishled military alliance, spearheaded the fight against ISIL in Syria and has handed over to Iraq hundreds of suspected ISIL members in recent months. Attacker stabs to death two and wounds more than a dozen before killing himself in Kawasaki city, near Tokyo. A man carrying a knife in each hand has stabbed to death a 12-year-old girl and a man before killing himself, according to reports, in an attack near Japans capital that also left more than a dozen people, including several children, wounded. Most of the victims in the attack on Tuesday morning were schoolgirls who were lined up at a bus stop near Noborito Park in the city of Kawasaki, just south of Tokyo, when a man reportedly in his 50s began slashing them with knives. National broadcaster NHK quoted police as saying that that the suspect died after cutting himself in the neck. Police did not immediately confirm the specifics of that report. The attackers identity and motive were not immediately known. Kiyoshi Matsuda, deputy director of the Nippon Medical School Musashi Kosugi Hospital, told reporters that the 12-year-old schoolgirl and a 39-year-old man had succumbed to their wounds. The Kawasaki City fire department put the number of wounded at 19, including three with severe injuries. Al Jazeeras Wayne Hay, reporting from the scene, said the attack took place near a train station and a bus stop at a time when the area was likely to be very busy with commuters. Children [at the bus stop] were waiting to go to school. It seems that that is where most of the people were attacked most of them, it seems, were schoolchildren waiting to get on a bus to go to a private Catholic school in the area, Hay said. We are told that at that time of the day, the children lining up for that particular bus were for the most part Grade One students children between six and seven years old, he added. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe voiced strong anger over the attack. It is a very harrowing case, Abe said in a televised statement. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the victims and hope the injured recover quickly. Footage broadcast on local TV stations showed multiple police cars, ambulances and fire engines at the scene. Emergency medical tents were put up to treat the wounded. A witness told the Mainichi newspaper that he heard children shrieking after walking past a bus. He said that when he turned around, he saw a man wielding a knife in each hand, screaming I will kill you! and several children were on the ground. NHK, citing police, said that a bus driver told officials that a man holding a knife in each hand walked towards the bus and started slashing children. NHK also interviewed a witness who said he saw the suspect trying to force his way onto a bus. I heard screaming, then I saw a man standing with a knife in each hand, NHK quoted an unidentified witness as saying. Then he crumbled to the ground. Two knives were found at the scene, NHK said. Authorities say the move is to stop exploitation of children but people say poverty has forced them into begging. Kampala, Uganda At 7am every morning, Joyce Kigem leaves the small mud and wattle shelter she shares with her six children and walks about three kilometres through Katwe, a large slum in Kampala, to the Ugandan capitals best-known market, Owino. She calls it going to work but shes neither a vendor nor hired help. In the market, she loiters by stalls where traders sort and winnow beans for sale, picking those that fall to the ground. Sometimes, she climbs onto off-loaded trucks, to pick spilt beans off their beds. When she has collected a cupful or two, she heads back home. By the time she gets home (typically around midday), her four eldest children (12 years and under) will have left the shelter. About 15,476 children live on the streets of the four major towns on the route out of Karamoja: Mbale, Iganga, Jinja and Kampala [Isaac Kasamani/Al Jazeera] She knows they have gone off to beg for money and food, at any one of Kampalas busy traffic intersections. Kigems children return home around midnight, with anything from UGX1,500 to UGX3,000 (40-80 cents). On luckier days, strangers also give them food so they will say no to Kigems staple of cooked beans. Begging by organised networks? Children begging in Kampalas streets is a common sight and authorities say many of them are forced into begging by organised networks. We dont know where they come. There are a number of children on the streets, of course, alongside their mothers who gain from them, Sam Sserunkuma, the citys deputy executive director, told journalists on Tuesday. Last week, the city of Kampala passed a law that banned donations or food to street children. People who do, now face a fine of about $11 or six months imprisonment. But Kigem, a single mother, said that poverty forced them to beg. If I could meet them [the politicians], I would explain my situation and tell them that its better for my children to beg than steal, she said. Her neighbours who were eavesdropping joined the conversation with far less restrained commentary. Are they going to punish people for being merciful? asked Michael Keem, a leader of Kinyoro neighbourhood, a swampy edge of Katwe slum, home to poor people mostly from the Karamoja region in the countrys northeast. People give money in churches. They should ban that too. America gives us money as a country. They should ban that. People who donate to street children now face a fine of about $11 or six months imprisonment [Isaac Kasamani/Al Jazeera] Poverty Suleiman Korobe, a 23-year sitting next to him, said if the government which is supposed to solve hunger has instead decided to make money off the hungry through fines. Residents said the new measures were meant to target the community from Karamoja one of the poorest regions in the country. Francis Kisakye, a social worker and founder of Trace Uganda, an organisation that works with street children, agrees with their assessment. The ordinance is combing the apex of the problem; targeting only the visible street children: the ones from Karamoja, Kisakye, a former street child, said. Karamoja, a semi-arid region, has experienced frequent famine in the past. Most of its social and economic indicators are the worst in the country. Of its 1.2 million people, 61 percent live in poverty compared to a national average of 27 percent, according to the latest Uganda National Household Survey. While the national literacy rate is 77 percent, it is 42 percent in Karamoja. Of its 1.2 million people, 61 percent live in poverty compared to a national average of 27 percent [Isaac Kasamani/Al Jazeera] City authorities say the law is meant to protect children from being trafficked into the city by criminal gangs who then place them on the streets to beg. Children on the streets In Katwe-Kinyoro, however, residents refuted the trafficking theories. Nobody brings them. It is hunger that pushes them out of Karamoja, Keem, the community leader, said. A 2018 survey by Retrak, a non-profit, estimated that 15,476 children live on the streets of the four major towns on the route out of Karamoja: Mbale, Iganga, Jinja and Kampala. Kigem said she left Karamoja along with her children during a famine in 2016. Even though life in Kampala is still difficult, she said she wont go back because in the city she can feed the family, once a day. If the city authorities start arresting people for giving street children gifts, she will ask her own children to stop begging to avoid getting innocent people punished. But after a few days, hunger will make them do it again, she said. US delegation began trip in Morocco and is set to travel to Jordan and Jerusalem later this week. US President Donald Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner is leading a delegation to the Middle East, signalling a new push on a long-promised peace plan for the region. Kushner has been accompanied by Jason Greenblatt, Trumps special representative for international negotiations, and Brian Hook, the special US representative for Iran, the White House said on Tuesday. The delegation began its trip in the Moroccan capital Rabat and was set to travel to Amman, Jordan, and Jerusalem later this week. A White House official told Reuters News Agency one reason for this weeks trip is to boost support for a June 25-26 US-led conference in Manama, Bahrain, in which Kushner is set to unveil the first part of Trumps long-awaited Israeli-Palestinian peace plan. The proposal, touted by Trump as the deal of the century, is set to encourage investment in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip by Arab donor countries, before dealing with the major political issues at the heart of the conflict. 190520110926575 The Palestinians have already rejected the plan as extremely biased in favour of Israel and declined to take part in the Manama meeting. Palestinian leaders said they were not consulted about the conference and stressed any solution to the conflict must be political. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have said they will participate, but Russia and China have said they will not send delegations. The participants are expected to include 300 to 400 representatives and business executives from Europe, the Middle East and Asia, and possibly some Palestinian business figures. Washington has yet to commit to an exact timetable with respect to the political aspects of the peace plan. Kushner is the chief architect of the proposals and Greenblatt, a longtime Trump lawyer, has served as his right-hand man on the Middle East initiative. Reporting from Washington, DC, Al Jazeeras Mike Hanna said that Kushner was likely trying to drum up support for the conference in Bahrain. It would appear that this trip is connected to the conference scheduled for Bahrain next month, at which Jared Kushner says that economic aspects of his proposal for Israel-Palestine are to be discussed. He has insisted that the economic aspect of this deal needs to be settled before the political aspects can be addressed, he said. Significantly, the king of Jordan has not indicated whether he will be attending that conference in Bahrain. Equally, Morocco has not made clear whether it will be attending. It is very important for Jared Kushner to convince Jordan and Morocco to take part in that conference otherwise it could lose whatever credibility it may have, he added. Arms sales to Saudi Kushners trip comes just days after Trump authorised $8.1bn in arms sales to Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies, bypassing the US Congress, which had frozen arms sales to the kingdom after the assassination of Saudi writer Jamal Khashoggi in October 2018 and stressed concerns over the human toll of a Saudi-led campaign in Yemen. But the Trump administration defended the sales as necessary to deter Iranian aggression and build partner self-defence capacity. Kushner has looked to an alliance with the Saudis against Iran as a way to gain Arab support for the US peace plan. (WB) The Democratic Caucus of the Virginia House of Delegates issued a strongly worded statement this week calling the Republican opponent of Democratic House of Delegates member Danica Roem extremely hostile to LGBT Virginians. In 2017, Roem became the first out transgender person in the United States to win election and be seated in a state legislature when she defeated anti-LGBT incumbent Bob Marshall (R) in the race for the 13th District House of Delegates seat in Western Prince William County and Manassas Park. In March, attorney and self-described stay-at-home mom Kelly McGinn of Manassas Park emerged as the Republican nominee to challenge Roem in the November 2019 general election in which all members of the Virginia General Assembly will be on the ballot for re-election. McGinn has so far not publicly commented on Roems status as the nations first transgender state legislator. In a March 14 statement announcing her candidacy McGinn referred to the controversies surrounding Virginias Democratic governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general, saying, Im running for Delegate to be your voice for common sense leadership. In a May 20 statement, the House of Delegates Democratic Caucus, which acts as a political action committee or PAC to help elect Democrats to that body, disclosed past statements and positions taken by McGinn expressing strong opposition to same-sex marriage and the rights of LGBT people to adopt children. The caucus released a copy of written public testimony that McGinn submitted in 2011 opposing a proposed state regulation change that would prohibit private adoption agencies from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation, age, or family status in placing children up for adoption. In her testimony, McGinn called the proposal absurd and irrational, stating, although redefining family, marriage, and parenthood has become a national obsession, one man and one woman joined in marriage remain the most successful paradigmatic family in which to place a child. McGinn added in her testimony that LGBT adoption was a social experiment on our children. The House of Delegates Democratic Caucus, which has endorsed Roem for re-election, also disclosed a 2008 joint letter signed by McGinn and 88 other Catholics, including priests, condemning Catholic politicians who support same-sex marriage, abortion rights, and embryonic stem cell research. The letter explicitly compares marriage equality, stem cell research and abortion to slavery, stating, The slave trade coarsened the British people, the British ruling class, and the British public life. In precisely the same way, abortion and other issues have coarsened our public life, and have poisoned American political discourse and our politics, the Democratic Caucus quotes the letter as saying. The letter goes on to state, The lack of public civility comes not from pro-lifers but from these Catholic politicians who support the right to kill innocent life in the womb and those who support defining man-woman marriage out of existence. According to the Democratic Caucus statement, This year, McGinn used transphobia to explain her public opposition to ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment, saying the ERA does not even mention the word woman or women, referring only to equality of rights on account of sex, a term which enjoyed a common understanding in 1972 a man or a woman but does not in 2019. The caucus statement points out that McGinn appeared to reiterate her opposition to LGBT parenthood when she liked a tweet describing as harmful to children the landmark pro-LGBT bill passed earlier this year by the Virginia General Assembly known as Jacobs Law. The bill, which Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam signed in February, updates the states child surrogacy laws to clear the way for same-sex couples who have children through a surrogate mother to obtain full parental rights. The bill was named after a child named Jacob who was born through surrogacy to a gay male couple in Northern Virginia. The McGinn campaign didnt immediately respond to email and phone messages from the Washington Blade seeking a response to the House of Delegates Democratic Caucus disclosure of McGinns statements and comments in opposition to LGBT issues. Republicans may say they arent going to personally attack Delegate Roem in this campaign but Kelly McGinns public hostility toward LGBTQ+ adoption and marriage equality is a personal attack on every LGBTQ+ Virginian, said Trevor Southerland, executive director of the Virginias House Democratic Caucus. What makes McGinns anti-LGBTQ+ remarks even more disturbing is that she made them publicly with the express intention of influencing policy, Southerland said in the Caucus statement. It seems she is determined to replace former House District 13 Delegate Bob Marshall as Virginias chief homophobe, he said. Although Roem has emerged as a strong voice for LGBT rights in the House of Delegates, nearly all political observers in the state capital in Richmond have said Roem has also become a champion for so-called bread and butter issues in her district, especially her efforts to improve longstanding automobile traffic congestion along Route 28 in Prince William County. Paris-based rights group ACAT says it filed a legal challenge to prevent a Saudi ship from taking delivery of its cargo. A French rights group sought to block the loading of what it said were munitions onto a Saudi Arabian ship docked in southern France, as an investigative website reported that the load was howitzer munitions. The Paris-based Christians for the Abolition of Torture (ACAT) said in a statement it had filed a legal challenge to prevent the vessel from taking delivery of its cargo. The Bahri Tabuk is due to load French weapons for Saudi Arabia, one of the main belligerents in the Yemeni conflict. ACAT is mobilising and calling on civil society and local networks to prevent these munitions from going to Saudi Arabia, it said. Another Saudi ship the Bahri Yanbu, left Frances northern coast two weeks ago without a cargo of weapons after dockers threatened to block its arrival in the port of Le Havre. ACAT had also filed a legal challenge to stop that consignment being loaded, arguing that it contravened a United Nations treaty because the arms might be used against civilians in the Yemeni conflict. The Bahri Tabuk, which is owned by the same company as the previous Saudi vessel, docked on Tuesday afternoon and was due to load its cargo on Wednesday, dock workers union official Laurent Pastor told the Reuters News Agency. It is out of the question that we load weapons or munitions for any war, Pastor said. He said the cargo had initially been due to include electrical transformers and that the union would check it again on Wednesday. Cargo is howitzer munitions Citing sources, online investigative site Disclose said on Tuesday the cargo to be loaded at the port of Marseille-Fos included munitions for Caesar howitzers. 190525112329803 Rights groups accuse Riyadh of using the French weapons against civilians in Yemen, where around 10,000 people have died since it began its offensive in 2015 with its ally the United Arab Emirates. Defence Minister Florence Parly told MPs she had no information on the shipment and that, in any case, France had a partnership with Saudi Arabia. We are checking this out, Parly said. And if this is indeed the case, would it be surprising? No, because we have an accord with Saudi Arabia, she said. However, a representative in France for the Saudi shipping company involved denied any plans for a weapons shipment, saying the vessel was picking up only electricity production units from Germanys Siemens, for civil use. The reports about a load of weapons or explosives is completely false, the official told the AFP news agency. Paris defends arms sales Earlier on Tuesday, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian repeated calls for Saudi Arabia and the UAE to end the dirty war in Yemen but defended French arms sales. 190527170556066 We have to be extremely vigilant on arms sales for these countries. Thats what we are doing and we are completely respecting the treaty that concerns weapons trade, he said. In April, Disclose published classified French military intelligence that showed weapons sold to Saudi Arabia, including tanks and laser-guided missile systems, were being used against civilians in Yemens war. Four of its reporters have been questioned by Frances internal DGSI intelligence agency over the leak, which the government has said is unacceptable. Rights groups have accused the French government of trying to intimidate the press and curb its freedoms. The UN says the Yemeni conflict is the worlds worst humanitarian crisis, with 3.3 million people displaced by the fighting and 24.1 million in need of aid. Death of Tam leaves Malaysia with just one critically-endangered Sumatran rhino, a female that was captured in 2014. Malaysias last male Sumatran rhinoceros has died, officials have said, dealing a major blow to the countrys efforts to save the critically-endangered species, the smallest and oldest of the worlds rhinos. Tam, who was thought to be about 30 years old, died at a wildlife reserve in Sabah on the Malaysian part of Borneo on Monday, according to wildlife officials in the state. The rhino had been suffering from kidney and liver problems for some time, local media reported. Our hearts are filled with sadness as we mourn the loss of a species, WWF Malaysia wrote on Twitter. With Tam gone, we now have only Iman left, our last female rhino. Let the loss of Tam be the wake-up call. Our wildlife needs protection. Malaysia declared the Sumatran rhino extinct in the wild in 2015, and has been working with Indonesian officials to help Iman the only surviving member of the subspecies left in the country that was captured in 2014, breed using in-vitro fertilisation. Sumatran rhinos once roamed through Thailand and Myanmar as far as the foothills of the eastern Himalayas, but the population has been reduced to no more than 80 animals in densely-forested pockets of the Indonesian island of Sumatra and Indonesian part of Borneo where it remains at risk of poachers. Habitat loss, as forests are turned into roads and converted into agricultural plantations, has also brought the animal to the brink of extinction. Tam, Malaysias last male Sumatran rhino wallows in mud in Sabah in this May 2014 photo [Chris Annadorai via Reuters] Breeding problems WWF says there is no indication that the Sumatran rhino population is stable and notes that only two captive females have reproduced in the last 15 years. Sabah Wildlife Department director Augustine Tuuga said that while Iman was still able to produce eggs, there were problems with her uterus and that she was incapable of becoming pregnant. We just have to look after the last remaining rhino, he told AFP news agency. Thats all we can do, and try if possible to work with Indonesia. The Sumatran rhino is the only Asian rhino with two horns, Covered with long hair, it is the closest relation to the extinct woolly rhino of any of the rhino species that survive today. Another female rhino, Puntung, died in captivity in 2017. On Tuesday, Xavier Jayakumar, Malaysias minister of water, land and natural resources, wrote on Twitter that Tams death was a great loss for the countrys mega-diverse biodiversity. Efforts to conserve other indigenous species must be doubled if not tripled. Malaysia is one of the worlds biodiversity hotspots and home to endangered species including the orangutan, Asian elephant and Malayan tiger, which are at risk from habitat loss and poaching. Maszlee Malik, the countrys education minister, said Tams loss was a wake-up call to the Southeast Asian nation. We need to protect the wildlife, the endangered species, he posted on Twitter. To love is to educate. Planned Parenthood says the states abortion clinic could close because Missouri is threatening to not renew its license Missouris only abortion clinic expects to be shut down this week after the state health department refused to renew its license, which would make it the only US state without a legal abortion clinic, Planned Parenthood said on Tuesday. This is not a drill, said Dr Leana Wen, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, which runs the clinic. This is not a warning. This is real and its a public health crisis, she added. More than a million women of reproductive age in Missouri will no longer have access to a health centre in the state they live in that provides abortion care. Planned Parenthood said in a statement that the clinic would sue the state health department to preserve access to legal abortions in the state. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Missouri abortion ban On Friday, Missouri Governor Mike Parson signed a bill into law that bans abortion after eight weeks of pregnancy. 190524145902149 Missouri was one of several states that have passed anti-abortion legislation this year in an effort to provoke the US Supreme Court to overturn Roe v Wade, the landmark 1973 case that established a womans right to terminate her pregnancy. According to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive health research and policy organisation, nearly 380 abortion restrictions were introduced across the country between January 1 and May 20. About 40 percent of the proposals have been abortion bans. The Guttmacher Institute has also found that 17 bans have been enacted across 10 states so far this year. It is not unusual to see hundreds of abortion restrictions introduced every year, but this high proportion of proposed bans is unprecedented, signaling a substantial shift in tactics at the state level, the organisation recently said on its website. Supreme Court avoids abortion question Separately on Tuesday, the US Supreme Court sent a mixed message on abortion, refusing to consider reinstating Indianas ban on abortions performed because of fetal disability or the sex or race of the foetus while upholding the states requirement that foetal remains be buried or cremated after the procedure is done. Both provisions were part of a Republican-backed 2016 law signed by Vice President Mike Pence when he was Indianas governor. 190521194454862 In an unsigned ruling, with two of the nine-member courts liberals dissenting, the Supreme Court decided that a lower court was wrong to conclude that Indianas foetal burial provision, which imposed new requirements on abortion clinics, had no legitimate purpose. The court has a 5-4 conservative majority. Although the foetal burial provision was not a direct challenge to the Roe v Wade decision, the ruling gave anti-abortion proponents a victory at the Supreme Court. But the court also indicated a reluctance to directly tackle the abortion issue, at least for now, rejecting Indianas separate attempt to reinstate its ban on abortions performed because of foetal disability or the sex or race of the foetus. The court left in place the part of an appeals court ruling that struck down that the provision. 190514142646289 While this ruling is limited, the law is part of a larger trend of state laws designed to stigmatise and drive abortion care out of reach. Whether its a total ban or a law designed to shut down clinics, politicians are lining up to decimate access to abortion, said Jennifer Dalven, a lawyer with the American Civil Liberties Union, which was part of the legal challenge to the Indiana law. After landslide victory Indias PM reaches out to Muslims, who fear they will continue to be target of Hindu hardliners. New Delhi, India Days after returning to power with a resounding mandate, Prime Minister Narendra Modi struck a conciliatory tone by saying his party needed to win the trust of Muslims the countrys largest minority. Modi led his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to a landslide win on the back of a divisive campaign that ostensibly targeted Muslims. The BJP does not have a single Muslim Member of Parliament among its 303 lawmakers. The rise of the BJP has been marked by the electoral marginalisation of Muslims, with their representation in democratic institutions gradually falling down. The Indian prime minister said that the opposition parties deceived minorities by not addressing their basic needs such as healthcare and education. Due to vote bank politics, minorities were crushed, boxed into a corner, subjected to imaginary fears, and exploited during the elections, he said, addressing the newly elected parliamentarians. 190419164503459 But Asaduddin Owaisi, one of Indias most prominent Muslim leaders, was not impressed by Modis apparent minority outreach. Just hours after the results were declared, Muslims were publicly attacked in many places by those celebrating Modis victory, Owasi, the president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) party, told Al Jazeera. With the election verdict, the majority Hindus have given vent to their unfulfilled aspiration for a Hindu India. Saeed Naqvi, veteran journalist and author Since the BJP won the election last week, at least five incidences of hate crimes have been recorded. In Madhya Pradesh state, three Muslims, including a woman, were badly beaten by a mob on the suspicion of carrying beef. 190525104312697 On Sunday, a Muslim man was attacked in Gurugram, a suburb of Delhi. He was stripped of his prayer cap and made to shout slogans in praise of Hindu gods. Stop lynchings Owaisi told local media that if Modi cared about Muslims, then he should stop cow vigilantes from lynching Muslims. In the past five years of Modis rule, 44 people have been lynched, most of them Muslims, by cow vigilantes, according to a report by Human Rights Watch. The BJP stoked fear among Hindus of a potential Muslim threat, with campaigning raising divisive issues such as the construction of a temple in place of a demolished mosque, and a change in citizenship law to bar Muslims. Author and senior journalist Saeed Naqvi said that religious polarisation was the main key to the BJPs success. ... we can expect Muslims to be arbitrarily left out of the final list and stripped of all basic entitlements such as healthcare, education and voting rights Aman Wadud, lawyer Such polarisation was last seen during the partition of India and Pakistan, Naqvi told Al Jazeera, referring to the 1947 division of the Indian subcontinent to form the Muslim-majority Pakistan and Hindu majority India. Naqvi, the author of Being the Other: The Muslim in India, said the partition marked the beginning of the Hindu project, which has now come of age. 190423115918201 With the election verdict, the majority Hindus have given vent to their unfulfilled aspiration for a Hindu India. This process is only going to intensify in the coming decades. More than a million people were killed during the partition and 17 million people were displaced in one of the worst tragedies of modern times. Kashmir and Assam Parvez Imroz from India-administered Kashmir and Aman Wadud from Assam, both human rights lawyers, fear that Muslims in their states will be the first to bear the brunt of the BJPs Hindu supremacist agenda. The BJP adopted national security as one of their main poll planks after a suicide attack in Kashmir that killed 40 Indian security forces in February. It is incorrect to say people have suddenly turned right and sanctioned the purge of Muslims Professor Sumeet Mhaskar, Jindal School of Government and Public Policy In Assam, the BJP based its campaign on the promise that it will rid the state of undocumented Muslim immigrants from Bangladesh while promising to keep the Hindu immigrants in contravention of Indias secular constitution. BJP president Amit Shah had referred to Bangladeshi immigrants as termites and infiltrators during the poll campaign, a statement that a BJP spokesperson defended in an Al Jazeera programme. Muslims form one-third of Assams population but their citizenship has always been suspect. A Supreme Court-monitored body published a draft list of citizens last year, leaving out nearly four million people. In 2014, immediately after Modi came to power Mohsin Shiekh was murdered by Hindu Rashtra Sena. In 2019, before Modi takes oath, 3 incidents of attacks on Muslims in 2 days. Where is the difference? nikhil wagle (@waglenikhil) May 27, 2019 Wadud feels the election mandate will further embolden the BJP to execute its vision of an Assam free of Bengali Muslims. Of the four million people left out of NRC, we can expect Muslims to be arbitrarily left out of the final list and stripped of all basic entitlements such as healthcare, education and voting rights, he said. Now, theres nothing stopping the BJP. 190423123253793 For Imroz, Modis victory has raised fears among Kashmiris that the BJP will abolish articles 370 and 35A of the Indian Constitution, which provide special safeguards to the disputed region administered by India. Kashmir has witnessed an armed rebellion since the late 1980s during which more than 60,000 civilians have been killed. India has stationed nearly half a million forces to fight the rebels, who either want independence or the merger of a Muslim-majority region with Pakistan. Working class hero He warned that repealing those safeguards would trigger a massive uprising in Kashmir and radicalise even those sections of Kashmiris, who have so far stayed clear of politics. Going by past record, we can expect the resistance to be met with more brutal military repression, said Imroz. India under Modi has been adopting methods used by Israel in Palestine. Theres also growing proximity between the two nations. The question in Kashmir is: will India follow Israels footsteps in ignoring international opinion? Professor Sumeet Mhaskar of Jindal School of Government and Public Policy sought to downplay the influence of Hindutva (Hindu supremacy) on peoples minds. 190409091407435 It is incorrect to say people have suddenly turned right and sanctioned the purge of Muslims. There is an element of that, but this is not a purely ideological mandate, he said. Mhaskar, an expert on unorganised labour and anti-caste politics, said the lower castes, who form the bulk of the unorganised workforce, voted overwhelmingly in favour of the BJP. The party, he said, has been extremely successful in projecting Modi as a working-class hero. The BJP campaign played up Modis identity as a leader from the backward castes (OBC), an ordinary tea-seller and watchman. This, Mhaskar said, was a powerful tug on the emotions of the lower-caste voters, who form the biggest chunk of the Indian electorate. Mhaskar said that the BJP captured the imagination of lower castes, who were traditionally on the fringes of Hindu society, by promoting the vision of a new Hindu nation, united against Muslims, in which even an OBC and former tea-seller can become the prime minister. This vision of political Hindusim, which is known as Hindutva, is very different from ritual or religious Hinduism in which ones profession is decided at birth by divine decree, he said. Oklahoma court case could have major implications for United States opioid crisis. The first crucial test of whether US states can hold drug makers responsible for the opioid crisis starts in Oklahoma on Tuesday. Lawyers will argue that company Johnson & Johnson is to blame for the widespread addiction that has devastated the state. The case will likely affect around 2,000 other pending cases across the country. Andy Gallacher reports from Oklahoma City. Imran Khan set to attend meeting where the USs Middle East peace plan is expected to be on the agenda. Pakistans Prime Minister Imran Khan will attend the 14th summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in the Saudi city of Mecca, its foreign minister has said. The OIC session is very important to discuss the Middle East conflict and also the proposed peace plan to defuse the situation, Shah Mehmood Qureshi told reporters on Tuesday, referring to the United Statess so-called deal of the century blueprint that is expected to be unveiled next month at a meeting in Bahrain. The plan, spearheaded by US President Donald Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner and US envoy Jason Greenblatt, is meant to revive the stalled and dormant peace process between Israel and Palestinian leaders. The OIC summit, which is scheduled to take place on May 31, will address current issues in the Muslim world and recent developments in a number of OIC member states, the official agenda states. Titled Together for the Future, the summit is due to be hosted by Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and aims at developing a unified stance of Muslim leaders on rising tension in the Gulf region. Iran, which is also an OIC member, has not yet confirmed whether it will attend the meeting. 190321072719814 Saudi Arabia and its allies have repeatedly accused Iran of interfering in the affairs of other countries, including Bahrain, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen, by supporting and arming fighters there. Unity and coordination of positions are necessary at this critical time, and Riyadh is qualified to play that role, the UAE minister of state for foreign affairs Anwar Gargash tweeted last week. But the kingdoms aim of a unified Islamic, Arab and Gulf position is likely to be difficult to achieve. Qatar has grown closer to Iran while Kuwait has expressed concern over Iranian threats to close the Strait of Hormuz. Oman, which has good ties with both Iran and the US, has said it and other parties seek to calm tensions between the two countries. Relations between Indian and Pakistan yet to thaw after military standoff in February over the disputed Kashmir region. Islamabad, Pakistan Pakistan has attributed the snub of India not inviting its Prime Minister Imran Khan for Narendra Modis oath-taking ceremony to the Indian leaders election campaign that focus[ed] on Pakistan-bashing. Speaking to a Pakistani television news channel on Monday evening, Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi reiterated his countrys invitation to India to engage in dialogue on all outstanding issues. Relations between the two countries have yet to thaw after a military standoff following a suicide attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed at least 40 people in mid-February. 190304100556184 The nuclear-armed neighbours have fought two of their three wars since independence in 1947 over the disputed territory of Kashmir. India accused Pakistan of controlling the attack and the Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) armed group that carried it out. Pakistan denied any connection to the attack or JeM. The standoff saw both sides conduct air attacks on each others territory, and an Indian fighter jet shot down during an aerial dogfight. India suspended all dialogue following the standoff, and Modi made frequent references to the military action against Pakistan during an election campaign that saw him sweep back to power, winning 303 of the 542 seats in Indias parliament. His National Democratic Alliance won 352 seats in all, according to official results. The issue on which Narendra Modi fought the election, the whole focus was on Pakistan bashing [and] on fanning nationalism, Pakistani Foreign Minister Qureshi told Geo News on Monday. Now, to expect that he will be able to rid himself of that narrative within a moment, and open himself up to the entire oppositions criticism, that is unlikely. Hold dialogue on real issues Modis Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led the right-wing alliance to sweep back to power on the back of a platform promising economic prosperity, and frequently referred to hardline action against Pakistan as a form of nationalism that India was in need of. 190520060706202 On Monday, Raveesh Kumar, the Indian foreign ministry spokesperson, said that Indias invitations to the oath-taking were in line with governments focus on its Neighbourhood First policy. India is inviting the leaders of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, Bhutan, Mauritius and Kyrgyzstan to the oath-taking on May 30, according to a government statement. Qureshi reiterated that Pakistan desired a resumption of bilateral dialogue with India, not an invitation to a ceremony. Even if [Pakistani PM] Imran Khan did go, then what would we have gained from attending this oath-taking? We can only attain something when we hold dialogue on the real issues. Qureshi briefly met Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj on the sidelines of a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Kyrgyzstan last week, the highest-level contact between the two countries since the military standoff in February and March. The two leaders held an informal conversation, the Pakistani foreign minister said. Asad Hashim is Al Jazeeras digital correspondent in Pakistan. He tweets @AsadHashim. Islamabad, Pakistan A Pakistani legislator, who the countrys military says assaulted a checkpoint in the northwestern district of North Waziristan, has denied the allegation and told Al Jazeera he is in hiding and fears for his life, as rights groups called for an impartial investigation into the incident. I am at a safe location, although it is not that safe, Mohsin Dawar, a member of the national parliament and leader of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) rights group, told Al Jazeera by satellite phone from an undisclosed location on Tuesday. They have surrounded my village. All the routes out are blocked. The death toll from Sundays confrontation at a military checkpoint in the Khar Qamar area of North Waziristan, about 210km south of provincial capital Peshawar, rose to at least eight on Monday, according to a military statement. The military claims the PTM protesters attacked the security post, while Dawar and other PTM members say soldiers fired on unarmed protesters without provocation. Part 1/2: Check this latest video coming from Waziristan about the incident. @Aliwazirna50 is moving with PTM activists and then suddenly Firing broke out. All PTM activists are unarmed and are just moving to a place in jubiliation while the firing starts on them. #PTMUnderAttack pic.twitter.com/6gmiJA1Uok Justice For Pashtuns (@justice4pashtun) May 28, 2019 Telephone lines, mobile phone reception and internet connectivity in North Waziristan have all remained suspended since Sundays incident. Dawar said he was in extreme danger and would hold the military responsible if he was attacked. Ali Wazir, another PTM leader and member of parliament, was arrested along with eight others during the confrontation. Contested narratives The military said on Monday that five more bodies were found in the area where the confrontation occurred, in addition to the three protesters killed and 15 others including five soldiers who were wounded in the violence. Dawar and Wazir led a group of people who assaulted the post and fired upon it, a security source told Al Jazeera. Since last year, the PTM has been demanding accountability for rights abuses allegedly committed by Pakistans military in its years of war against the Taliban in the northwestern tribal districts. The group has faced a widespread crackdown, with frequent arrests of activists and a complete media blackout on coverage of its events. The group has demanded the tribal districts be cleared of landmines and unexploded ordnance; that hundreds of missing persons who were allegedly victims of enforced disappearances be produced and formally charged in court; and an end to the alleged practice of extrajudicial killings by the military and police. Videos released by the PTM showed Dawar, Wazir and others crossing a barrier at the checkpoint, after engaging in a heated argument with soldiers who were denying them entry. We crossed the second barrier and joined [another group of protesters], and people started cheering, Dawar told Al Jazeera. When the cheering and shouting of slogans started, then [soldiers] started firing. At least two pieces of video footage shared by the PTM appeared to corroborate this narration of events, with shots being heard after PTM supporters crossed a barrier. When the firing started, we initially thought they were firing into the air [to disperse us], said Dawar. But then, I saw a man to my left was injured and bleeding. And to my right, another man fell. The legislator, who was elected to the national assembly from North Waziristan in Pakistans general election last year, said he travelled on foot for 40km surrounded by supporters to reach a safe location. Check out this two part video thread. All PTM activists are unarmed and they just want to pass through the road blockade in the leadership of @mjdawar and @Aliwazirna50 2/2 pic.twitter.com/aiVtQvmCk7 Justice For Pashtuns (@justice4pashtun) May 27, 2019 The military denies the PTMs version of events, saying the activists assaulted the post. Troops at the check post exercised maximum restraint in the face of provocation and direct firing on the post, said a military statement released on Sunday. Al Jazeera was unable to independently verify either account because journalists access to the area is restricted by the military. Arrests led to protest On May 6, a soldier was killed and three others wounded when unidentified gunmen opened fire on military personnel in the Khar Qamar area, near the site of Sundays violence, local media reported. A follow-up attack took place on Friday, when security forces set up a blocking position in the area to search for the perpetrators, a security source said. One soldier was wounded in that attack, the military said. Following the attack, security forces carried out search operations to identify the perpetrators, arresting two men, the source said. After the arrests, local residents held a sit-in protest against the detentions, claiming the men were innocent and that security forces had harassed an elderly woman during their raids. This was a local protest that had nothing to do with the PTM, said the source. It was purely for release of the two terrorist facilitators. Dawar corroborated that version of events, telling Al Jazeera he was leading a group of PTM activists to investigate the case and speak with local residents to ascertain whether there had been a rights violation during the raids. [The PTM] was not protesting, the people of the area were protesting, he said. We were trying to go and meet the people who were protesting to find out what had happened there and to find out the fundamental issue. The confrontation between both sides took place when soldiers attempted to stop Dawar, Wazir and others from meeting with a separate group of protesters who were on the other side of the Khar Qamar check post. The military, however, said crossing the barrier at the checkpoint constituted an aggressive act. Anywhere in the world, check posts are a no-go area for anyone, said the security source. That is what a check post is meant for. Dawar said the PTM had not acted violently, and would not do so. We are extremely non-violent. The whole reason we are successful is because we have been non-violent, he said. We have not broken so much as a potted plant in a year and a half of protesting. They want us to be violent, they are trying to push us towards this, but we will never go that way. Who will go? On Monday, Amnesty International and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) both called for independent investigations into the violence. The Pakistan government must immediately order an independent and effective investigation into the killing of activists on Sunday in North Waziristan. If the reports are correct that the army killed protesters by unlawfully using live ammunition, this would be a very serious violation of international law, said Rabia Mehmood, Amnestys South Asia researcher. The HRCP said it was alarmed by the violence. HRCP believes that this will further escalate tensions between PTM supporters and security institutions, consequently leading to a permanent wedge between the people of tribal districts and the state, the statement said. The organisation demanded the release of Wazir, the PTM leader and member of parliament who was in custody after the incident. Pakistans government backed the militarys version of events, with the Prime Ministers Information Adviser Firdous Ashiq Awan terming the group led by Dawar and Wazir extremists. The way that those who would challenge the writ of the state attacked a Pakistani military check post The cabinet has condemned this extremist act, she said at a press conference on Tuesday. Dawar denied he or other PTM supporters were acting illegally by attempting to access the area where the arrests took place. There is a sit-in protest in my area, and I am the elected representative of the area, he said. If I do not go there to find out the issue, who will go? Asad Hashim is Al Jazeeras digital correspondent in Pakistan: @AsadHashim Community leaders say the meeting is an attempt to give Arab cover to Israels occupation of Palestinian land. Several Palestinian American community organisations have denounced a planned United States-led workshop to encourage investments in the occupied Palestinian territories as treason. The US is set to cohost an economic conference in Manama, Bahrain, on June 25 and 26, to encourage investment in the occupied Palestinian territories that could be made possible by a peace agreement, the White House said last week. The meeting is supposed to bring together business, government and civic leaders from the region in order to facilitate discussions about bringing economic investments to the occupied West Bank and Gaza. Senior White House adviser Jared Kushner is currently leading a US delegation in the Middle East seeking to boost support for the Bahrain workshop, in which Kushner is expected to unveil the first stage of US President Donald Trumps Israeli-Palestinian peace plan. A number of Arab states, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, will attend, but Palestinian American business and community leaders have expressed concern that the gathering is an attempt to give Arab cover to the maintenance of Israels occupation of the Palestinian territories. 190527063251639 A joint statement released on Sunday by 14 Palestinian American community organisations described the conference as a stab in the back of the Palestinian people and a violation of all of resolutions made at Arab and Islamic summits that prohibited normalizing Arab ties with Israel before the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Criticising the Arab states planned participation in the gathering, the statement, signed by groups like the Palestinian-American Council, Ramallah Federation and the Palestinian American Center, warned that Arab states might end up becoming platforms to launch the suspicious Trump deal. Palestinian American billionaire Farouq Shami also condemned the Bahrain workshop, stating that any solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict must put an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. Palestinians will not trade their homeland for money, Shami told Al Jazeera. Once we have our own state and our freedom, we will build our own country by ourselves, the Houston- based businessman said. While some Arab states have announced their participation in the gathering, world powers China and Russia have said they would not take part, the official Palestinian news agency Wafa reported on Monday. Boycotting the Bahrain conference comes within the framework of a bilateral Russian-Chinese agreement not to participate in it, Wafa quoted Chinese ambassador in Palestine, Guo Wei, as saying. Shadin Maali, a Palestinian American community activist based in Chicago, said that she supported the stance of Moscow and Beijing. It is important to address the economic component of the solution of the Palestinian issue, however, it cant be dealt with independently of a comprehensive solution to the humanitarian situation on the ground for the Palestinian people, she told Al Jazeera. 190520110926575 We must first deal with the occupation and respecting the United Nations resolutions and laws before we deal with economic proposals and investments in the occupied territories. The Race to Please Trump Basil al-Qudwa, a Palestinian American economist based in Washington, DC, told Al Jazeera that the meeting provides an opportunity for countries to publicly normalise their secret ties with Israel. The Saudi-UAE-Bahrain axis is eager to please Trump no matter what the price is, he said. US bias towards Israel is not new or shocking, al-Qudwa said. Whats shocking, however, is the race of some Arab Gulf states to sell the Palestinians down the river so they can please Trump and get his approval for their own aggressive domestic and regional policies. Rory Miller, a professor at Georgetown University in Doha, told Al Jazeera that if the meeting took place, it would break the mould of previous US-led attempts to negotiate an end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Its conceptual underpinning is designed to buy off one party the Palestinians so that they agree to a deal that does not meet their political demands. This meeting clearly signals the willingness of the Saudi-UAE-Bahrain axis to fully embrace the Trump administrations regional vision even if it means the public abandonment of Palestinian interests, he said. Follow Ali Younes on Twitter: @ali_reports Serbian leaders say the officers were sent to intimidate them. Troops in Serbia have been put on high alert after Kosovan police made several arrests in the semi-autonomous territory dominated by Serbs. Police said they were targeting organised crime. But Serbian leaders, who dont recognise Kosovos independence, say the officers were sent to intimidate them. Al Jazeeras Rory Challands reports. (AP) A university in Ohio has ended its affiliation with the United Methodist Church over the denominations renewed bans on LGBT clergy and same-sex marriage. The Canton Repository reports the University of Mount Union president says the board of trustees considered the issue for months before voting recently to end the affiliation of more than 150 years. University President W. Richard Merriman Jr. says the school wants a diverse campus. He says it became difficult to see how the denominations recent actions could be reconciled with the universitys values. The General Conference of the United Methodist Church in February voted to continue prohibiting ordination of gays and lesbians and barring its clergy from presiding at same-sex weddings. The university in Alliance says ending the affiliation wont affect its curriculum. The two-day strike comes hours after army chiefs accuse protest leaders of not wanting to share power. Protesters in Sudan started a two-day general strike on Tuesday to pile pressure on the ruling army to hand over power to a civilian government. The strike left hundreds of airline passengers stranded at Khartoum airport on Tuesday morning after opposition group Alliance for Freedom and Change requested Sudanese pilots to participate. An official at the capitals international airport, said that local flights were suspended early Tuesday however the international flights are going as usual, he said. The official declined to give his name because he was not authorised to speak to the media. Just today two airplanes of Ethiopian and Saudi airlines landed at the airport, but employers of some companies are protesting and making such troubles, he said. Flight tracking sites showed some international flights had departed Tuesday but that the status of most flights was unknown or cancelled. Better than we expected Leaders of the umbrella protest movement and army generals who seized power after ousting President Omar al-Bashir last month, have so far failed to iron out differences over who should lead a new governing body a civilian or soldier. The response to the call for a strike has been better than we expected, Siddiq Farukh, a leader of the protest movement, told AFP news agency on Monday. The two-day strike aims to deliver a message to the whole world that the Sudanese people want a real change and they dont want the power to be with the military, he added. The new governing body is expected to install a transitional civilian government, which in turn would prepare for the first post-al-Bashir elections after a three-year interim period ends. The deputy head of the Transitional Military Council, Lieutenant General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, who goes by the nickname Hemeti, said on Monday that the council was ready to hand over power swiftly. Hemeti accused the opposition of not being serious about sharing power and wanted to confine the military to a ceremonial role. By God, their slogans cheated us. I swear we were honest with them 100 percent, Hemeti said at a dinner with police. Thats why, by God Almighty, we will not hand this country except to safe hands. Al Jazeeras Hiba Morgan, reporting from Khartoum, said it is not clear whether this latest round of strikes will pressure the military to return to the negotiating table. Markets, shops, restaurants closed The military council, even before the strikes started this morning, have been voicing concerns about its impact. They said they will not accept people to go on strike. They said those who do follow the oppositions call and go on strike will be suspended. We are yet to hear from them today, Morgan said. The opposition is hoping that they will be able to put enough pressure on the military to make them return to the negotiating table. Whether that will happen remains to be seen, she added. Sudans Central Bank said the majority of its employees are on strike. A dozen commercial banks in the capital were closed, Muez Ahmed, a strike organizer at the Bank of Khartoum told Al Jazeera. I can confirm that the 110 branches of the Bank of Khartoum are striking, also the banks of Faisal, Farmers, Animal resources, Alnilain, Exports development, Sudanese-French bank, Albaraka and others are all striking, he said In downtown Khartoum, popular markets, shops and restaurants were closed and public transportation was not working, and Khartoums Bahri train station was empty, with no trains moving. Electric company and telecommunications workers closed shop as did some private flour mills and food industries. Protest leaders had said medics, lawyers and prosecutors, would also participate in the strike. They had earlier said that the strike in the telecommunications and aviation sectors would not affect operations. But the protest movements plan has been dealt a blow after a key member, the National Umma Party, said it opposed the strike plan as there had been no unanimous decision over it. We have to avoid such escalated measures that are not fully agreed, the party said on Sunday. Umma and its chief Sadiq al-Mahdi have for decades been the main opponents of al-Bashirs iron-fisted rule. The party threw its weight behind the protest movement after nationwide demonstrations erupted against al-Bashir in December. Mahdis elected government was toppled by al-Bashir in a coup in 1989. In a recent interview with AFP, Mahdi warned protesters not to provoke the army rulers as they had been instrumental in al-Bashirs removal. Protester Hazar Mustafa said a civilian government was the only solution to Sudans problems. We see the military council as part of the former regime. We dont see it upholding any rights and building a just state, she said. Ahead of the strike, the chief of the ruling military council General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo have been touring Khartoums regional allies Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The oil-rich Gulf states Saudi Arabia and the UAE, along with Egypt, are seen as backing the generals even as the United States leads Western calls to swiftly establish civilian rule in the country. Meanwhile, hundreds of passengers were stranded at Khartoum airport as scores of employees at the facility went on strike. Many employees carried banners or wore badges that read We are on strike. Sudanese airlines Badr, Tarco and Nova suspended flights on Tuesday, although some international flights were still scheduled. Passengers were also stranded at Khartoums main bus terminal as hundreds of employees observed the strike. I have to travel to Gadaref to be with my family for Eid, but Im not angry as I understand the reason for the strike, traveller Fatima Omar said as she waited with her children at the bus terminal. Mohammed Amin contributed reporting from Khartoum The court will decide whether the family of a Mexican teen shot dead by US Border Patrol can sue for damages in the US. The US Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to decide whether the family of a Mexican teenager fatally shot while on Mexican soil by US Border Patrol agent across the border in Texas can pursue a civil rights lawsuit in US courts. It marks the second time the Supreme Court will consider the legal dispute involving Sergio Adrian Hernandez Guereca, who was 15 when he was killed in 2010 along the US-Mexico border a case that now will be decided during heightened US tensions with Mexico over President Donald Trumps border policies. The justices will decide whether to allow the familys civil lawsuit seeking monetary damages against Border Patrol agent Jesus Mesa to proceed. The court previously ruled in the same case in 2017, but did not decide the important legal question of whether Hernandezs family could sue for a violation of the US Constitutions Fourth Amendment, which bars unjustified deadly force. The lawsuit also states that Hernandezs right to due process under the Constitutions Fifth Amendment was violated. The justices instead threw out a ruling by the New Orleans-based 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals that had barred the lawsuit and asked the lower court to reconsider the matter. The 5th Circuit last year again ruled against Hernandezs relatives, prompting them to seek Supreme Court intervention for a second time. Effect on similar cases The high courts ruling likely also will affect a similar cross-bordering shooting case in which Border Patrol agent Lonnie Swartz fatally shot Jose Antonio Elena Rodriguez, a 16-year-old Mexican citizen, from across the border in Arizona. That case is also pending at the Supreme Court. 181207004516714 The Supreme Court, with its conservative majority, has been generally reluctant to extend the scope of civil rights protections. For example, it ruled in 2017 that former US officials who served under President George W Bush could not be sued over the treatment of non-American citizen detainees rounded up in New York after the September 11, 2001 attacks. The Trump administration, which has implemented a zero-tolerance policy at the border, including using several practices that are being challenged in the courts or have been struck down by federal judges, has urged the Supreme Court not to allow the Hernandez and Rodriguez lawsuits. Defence ministry says nine Kurdish fighters have been killed in the operation taking place in Iraqs Hakurk region. Turkeys military launched an operation with commandos, backed by artillery and air attacks, against Kurdish fighters in a mountainous area of northern Iraq, the defence ministry said on Tuesday. The military action began with artillery and air raids on Monday afternoon and the operation by commando brigades began at 8pm (17:00 GMT) to neutralise terrorists, and destroy their ammunition depots and shelters, according to a ministry statement. It said the operation is in Iraqs Hakurk region, just across the border from Turkeys southeastern tip, which also borders Iran. The ministry also said that nine PKK members had been killed in the operation as of Tuesday afternoon. The Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) fighter group is based in northern Iraq, notably in the Qandil region to the south of Hakurk. 190526084212267 Video published by the ministry showed helicopters landing commandos on mountainous terrain. It also shared photos showing shells fired by howitzers and soldiers perched on ridges, surveying hillsides with their rifles. The operation, with the support of our attack helicopters, is continuing as planned, the statement said. The military frequently launches cross-border air attacks against PKK targets in northern Iraq, but ground operations are less common. The PKK has been fighting against the Turkish state in predominantly Kurdish southeastern Turkey since the 1980s and more than 40,000 people have been killed in the conflict. It is designated a terrorist group by Ankara, the European Union and the United States. Fears in Iraq ISIL is seeking to exploit any instability arising out of tensions between the US and Iran. There are fears in Baghdad that growing tension between the United States and Iran could have dangerous implications for Iraqs stability. As the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS) continues on the ground, it is feared the group is just waiting for any weakness in international coalition efforts. Al Jazeeras Charles Stratford reports from Baghdad. Survivors of Typhoon Rai say they are running out of water and food as two people die of dehydration on Siargao island. Has anyone coined a term to describe the irrational fear of the government imposing laws based on religion? If not, I humbly suggest "theocraphobia." In the United States, Alabama's ban of abortion after a fetal heartbeat is detected has resulted in a widespread rash of theocraphobia. It has crept into Canada, which seems especially vulnerable to it in the wake of the election of Jason Kenney and the United Conservative Party in Alberta. The comparisons to the Puritan tyranny of The Handmaid's Tale (based on the novel by wealthy white Canadian feminist Margaret Atwood) predictably rolled in, and the accusations that women are in danger from regressive religiously inspired legislation are likely going to be with us for a long time. The image Handmaid evokes gives us an indication of what theocracy means to these people: regressive, irrational laws that restrict people's freedom based not on any public interest, but on personal religious beliefs that should remain private. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez summarized this in a tweet accusing pro-life Republicans of secretly wanting to turn America into "a creepy theological order led by a mad king." The mistake of those panicked commentators isn't that they think the ban on abortion is a theocratic move. That's more or less true. What they've missed, though, is that all politics is theological, including theirs. The debate between pro-lifers and pro-choicers (and among different pro-choicers) has to do with when a fetus becomes a baby with moral rights. In other words, when does a bundle of cells become a person? How you answer this depends on how you define human nature. This is a philosophical question one of the oldest ones relating to that branch of philosophy dealing with ultimate reality, metaphysics. It also touches on ethics, the philosophical project dedicated to answering the question: what are human persons supposed to do? In other words, despite philosophy's reputation for abstraction and irrelevance, we find that all political beliefs are really philosophical beliefs. The problem, as the great medieval thinker Thomas Aquinas pointed out, is that philosophy, like mathematics, can only reason from premises; it can't provide or prove those premises. For example, if you think humans have dignity and worth because of their rationality, you can deduce a lot of irrefutable consequences from that. But what if someone picks a different premise to start from for example, that no human being has any moral worth? You can justify ruthless totalitarianism from that premise. (It's been done before.) Can you refute that premise from philosophy itself? No, it seems that you can't. Thus, we see the brick wall into which the abortion debate collides: there's no agreement on the fundamental metaphysics of what makes a human being a person. Worse still, if there's no way to get at whether these premises are true or false, we're in danger of falling into a nihilism, where we can't be sure of anything. So if philosophy cannot prove its own premises, then where do these premises, and their authority, come from? You could answer this sociologically: our assumptions are shaped by cultures, which develop historically. But culture, we should remember, is etymologically linked to cult. The real answer is that these premises ultimately come from religion. Defining "religion" has always been a slippery task, but what all religions have in common is that they all make claims and assertions about ultimate reality and about morality. They tell stories about us "metanarratives," as the postmodernists call them that supply the premises that philosophy works from. The famous medieval axiom that "philosophy is the handmaiden of theology" was fundamentally correct. Thus, controversially but irresistibly, all political beliefs are philosophical beliefs, and all philosophical beliefs are theological beliefs. In many cases, a religion's entire purpose is to provide an ethical code for a society, a general cosmology, and a network of communal rituals to observe. This was what Confucianism was for China, and what Shintoism was for Japan, for many centuries. In the West, meanwhile, each country has its own variant of Enlightenment liberalism supplemented with various national myths and holidays (holy days), which perform exactly the same sociological function of providing a universe of moral premises. (Note the quasi-scriptural status of constitutions and charters.) This goes all the way back to the ancient world. The Babylonian creation story, the Enuma Elish, is not just a theogony and cosmogony justifying the Babylonian religion. It is also a political manifesto justifying the Babylonian empire. In it, Marduk, the chief god of Babylon, creates the world by destroying a chaos monster, ripping her in two to make the earth and the sky. He subdues the gods of the other nations, kills a rival god, and out of his blood creates humanity so the gods can have slaves. This is not just an origin story for the cosmos. It is also about the metaphysics of society. The ultimate truth is chaos; humans are by nature dangerous and rebellious; the only way to impose order is through violent suppression. Thus, you have the political philosophy that rationalized the oppressive Chaldean regime, a philosophy that was actually theology. Compare this to the Genesis account of creation, where humans are molded by hand from dust, not blood. The world is created in a systematic week-long conflict-free sequence. Adam and Eve are not enemies of God; they are made in His image. They are not slaves; they are given dominion. The picture of the world, and of society, is an orderly cosmos governed by humans with a divinely imbued dignity. It is clear how liberalism, with its idea of human rights, developed from this, and it should not surprise us that much of Locke's Two Treatises on Government is taken up with interpreting the opening chapters of Genesis. Liberalism is just one of many premises taken for granted in politics today that began as an explicitly theological concept. Abortion, as we have said, is about personhood. But the modern concept of "person" was invented by Christian theologians to explain the mysteries of the Trinity (one God, three persons) and the Incarnation (one person, two natures). The pro-choicers are reasoning from a theological concept, albeit with their own spin on it. Other examples are just as ironic: the main argument for gay "marriage" that two consenting people in love should be allowed to choose each other is taken from the Christian theology of the sacrament of Matrimony, which was utterly different from the norm in the ancient world, where consent had nothing to do with marriage. How often do we hear talk about being on "the right side of history," as though history were the tribunal of what is right and just an idea we get from Hegel, whose system is essentially a Prussian translation of the medieval heresy of the Franciscan fanatic Joachim of Fiore? Even religious tolerance, which the theocraphobes so highly value, is not a religiously neutral idea. Locke's Letter Concerning Toleration justifies tolerance by quoting the Bible's commandment to love our enemies. All of these are governing political assumptions that are actually theological concepts. Friedrich Nietzsche, who described himself as a "genealogist," was infamously frustrated with the modern world for not recognizing that all its moral and philosophical systems were essentially theological in origin. For Nietzsche, this was the reason we should do away with them. Should we? While popular media like Handmaid's Tale and The Crucible may have conditioned us to think of theological states only as oppressive and backward, remember that figures like Martin Luther King, Jr. and Tommy Douglas were pastors who saw their politics as the implementation of their religious beliefs. No less a figure than the Hindu activist Gandhi (deeply influenced as he was by Tolstoy's vision of Christian nonviolence) would have had no problem with "I don't accept a politics without religion. Polity is a servant of religion." Ocasio-Cortez herself wrote an article for the Jesuit magazine America justifying her prison reform proposals with reference to her Catholic faith, and in a tweet, she invited GOP lawmakers to support her proposed ban on high credit card rates for low-income users because of the Bible's prohibition of usury. It was meant to expose right-wing hypocrisy, but it equally revealed her own inconsistency when it comes to religiously inspired legislation. Every politician with a moral cause he cares deeply about is reasoning from a premise that comes from a worldview deeper than politics or philosophy. Every righteous politician is a religious crusader. If we don't recognize this, there are others who do. The chief Nazi jurist and political philosopher Carl Schmitt wrote texts on political theology that bluntly recognized that all political concepts are just secularized concepts, and, in his Hobbesian vision, the State had assumed the role of God. In the Third Reich, we see the consequences of that political theology. It takes us back to the calamity of the Enuma Elish. If we want an alternative order, we need an alternative theology. We can still disagree and reject each other's theological premises. But, as a culture, we should shove aside our Atwoodian paranoia, confront our theocraphobia head on, and candidly admit that we're all theocrats of one sort or another. Our conversations over health care, the economy, and other clearly religious issues would be much more healthy, honest, and productive if we did. Time to pay the piper is an appropriate phrase for what I hope lies ahead in Washington, D.C. The investigation of President Trump failed to find any collusion (or obstruction). The Democrats' hero Robert Mueller and his team of prosecutors spent two years and $30-plus million to tell most of us what we already knew. Their report, designed to allow continual Democrat attacks, exonerated Trump. Despite best efforts, they failed, at least in the eyes of the Democratic rabid base. With that out of the way, it is now time to pay the piper. Attorney General William Barr is now tasked to investigate the origins of the phony investigation against President Trump. The assault is over. The king is still alive and sounds of the piper can be faintly heard. Speculation abounds regarding what was done and by whom. Like him or loathe him, Donald Trump is now on the offensive and he holds all the cards. Watergate may end up looking like a jaywalking violation by the time this investigation is over. For the sake of the country, the investigation should be thorough, fair, and reasonably quick. The punishment need be commensurate with the offenses and painful enough to dissuade future corruption of this type. Sunshine, the best disinfectant, is anathema to both Dracula and the Deep State, but dawn is here. Understanding This Mess We don't know all that has happened because only part of the information is public. However, to understand what led us to this point, two major factors seem to have been in play. 1) Obama's Mission from God Mentality President Obama, was on a mission to "transform the country." When you view the United States as a cruel and exploitative country responsible for much of the horrific abuses in the world, it is natural to disrespect its history, traditions, and laws. (Recall Michelle saying when Obama was sworn in that it was the first time she was proud of our country.) Also, recall Obama's messianic approach to politics, including his "we are the ones we are waiting for." To correct for these injustices, you cannot be restrained by the same customs and laws that created them. Numerous Obama actions suggest a willingness to break or at least bend the norms and laws of this country: Gunrunning to Mexico in an effort to gain support for mitigating the Second Amendment. Cover-up and lies about Benghazi. Weaponizing the IRS against conservatives. Spying on journalists. This is a small fraction of what might be listed. The clueless Joe Biden, who defined Obama's administration as having not one single whisper of scandal," apparently does not remember these and other questionable activities. His position either reveals his own IQ and/or tells voters how dumb he believes them to be. Neither interpretation is useful for Old Joe's presidential hopes. Obama's arrogance was not unique. What was, was his near-unanimous support and adulation by the media. No other president has been so protected and worshiped by the press. Richard Nixon, Evil Incarnate to many, may have had better or worse intentions than Obama. We will never know because his adversarial relationship with the press restricted his opportunities to do either. 2) The Criminal Mind Investigation, thus far, has been primarily on campaign-related matters, including spying and infiltration attempts against the Trump campaign. Less emphasized is the apparent spying on American citizens that preceded the campaign. These abuses are at least as important and a key to understanding how matters got so out of hand. Criminals rarely begin their careers with a capstone crime. Trivial crimes typically get bigger and more serious over the malefactor's career. The same pattern applies to government crimes for the same reason. Specifically, the perp is unsure of how far he can go before he is noticed and reacted to. Violations of privacy and differential citizen treatment were rife long before Trump came on the scene. The IRS scandal under Obama involved blocking conservative organizations from getting proper tax status. James Rosen, a Fox reporter, was spied on as early as 2010 by the Obama Administration. Samantha Power unmasked an incredible number of people in her role at the United Nations. Debra Heine referenced Sara Carter saying: "That's unheard of," Carter said. "Put it this way -- when John Bolton was the at the U.N., he unmasked three people. Three people. She unmasked close to 300. And I'm going to tell you some of those names are going to be very important when they come out," she added. (Sara Carter and John Solomon were investigative heroes pursuing this scandal while others looked away.) The Intelligence Community appears to have been unleashed against American citizens before Trump announced his intentions to run for office. Given what was deemed to be an infinitesimal chance of his winning, one wonders why any attention at all was paid to Trump, at least initially. Perhaps the ease with which the controls and checks and balances were vitiated in prior FISA abuses and unmaskings, made it seem almost "free" or "riskless" to engage in such behavior. If this thinking is correct, there is likely evidence to be uncovered regarding other Republican candidates, especially those considered as real opponents. Criminality in government did not start in Obama's administration. Serious abuses in J. Edgar Hoover's long reign are well documented. How much of this was institutionalized into the fabric of the intelligence community? Does anyone believe that such perfidies and criminal acts did not occur under Carter, Reagan, Clinton, or Bush? Hoover was a fanatic who considered himself a patriot. His behavior was as reprehensible as what is being uncovered today. However, there is a big difference! Hoover was the instigator and director of this behavior. He was a lone wolf at the head of a powerful agency. Today, the effort does not emanate from one agency but permeates the entire upper echelon of the Intelligence Community. Someone higher-up had to coordinate and direct this organized effort. That is vastly more serious than a powerful, rogue FBI director infecting his own agency! There is no proof that Obama was in charge of the operation, but the fact that it was politically oriented is a meaningful difference from Hoover. The fact that it was coordinated across agencies also suggests that someone at or near the top directed it. Panic Sets In When Trump won the nomination, it was considered a blessing for the Democrats. It was "impossible" for him to win. Had Clinton won, none of this skullduggery would have surfaced. Many committing the crimes would have been carried forward in the Clinton Administration. It all would have been buried in some remote part of the Swamp. It seemed risk-free to continue the dirty tricks and illegalities. Fortunately, Trump won. Had he not, the norms and integrity of government would have shifted downward to a lower level. The Swamp Creatures would have been emboldened to violate even more checks/balances and laws against opponents and citizens in the future. Unfortunately (for the bad guys), Trump won. Panic ensued. To protect themselves, the bad guys had to develop a narrative that would stop Trump even after he had done the impossible and won the election. The election had to be overturned! Careers and lives depended on it. Many of the protagonists are in the process of further disgracing themselves by attempting to evade accountability. Even the supposed venerable Robert Mueller has been soiled with his milquetoast report. Matters will get worse -- much worse! There are so many parts to this scandal that it is impossible to predict where it leads. Fortunately, Barr's love of country and the Justice Department and related institutions drove him from a comfy life in the private sector to becoming the second most maligned man in Washington. Does anyone believe he came back to play the Deep State game? He is on a mission to discover what happened and to hold those people accountable. If my perceptions are correct, he has the opportunity to be as valuable to the country's survival as some of our earliest patriots. He is a no-nonsense guy and I hope he takes no prisoners. In 1860, with the election of Abraham Lincoln as U.S. president, the newly-formed Republican Party controlled the U.S. House, Senate, and presidency. As was the case with most every state in what would become the Confederacy, my home state of Georgia cited slavery, Tepublicans, and the election of Lincoln as its reasons for seceding: A brief history of the rise, progress, and policy of anti-slavery and the political organization into whose hands the administration of the federal government has been committed [the Republicans] will fully justify the pronounced verdict of the people of Georgia [who voted to secede]. The party of Lincoln, called the Republican Party under its present name and organization, is of recent origin. It is admitted to be an anti-slavery party. . . . The prohibition of slavery in the territories, hostility to it everywhere, the equality of the black and white races, disregard of all constitutional guarantees in its favor, were boldly proclaimed by its leaders and applauded by its followers. . . . [T]he abolitionists and their allies in the northern states have been engaged in constant efforts to subvert our institutions. The Confederate States of America was formed at the Montgomery Convention in February 1861. For the southern statesand anyone else in the world paying attentionthe agenda of the newly formed (and electorally victorious) Republican Party agenda was clear. Every party platform since the creation of the Republican Party had forcefully denounced slavery. After the infamous Dred Scott ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1857, the subsequent Republican platform strongly condemned the ruling and reaffirmed the right of Congress to ban slavery in the territories. On the other hand, the corresponding Democrat platforms praised the Dred Scott ruling and condemned all efforts to end slavery in the U.S. With its recent unashamed embrace of socialismthey used to avoid such talkalong with its decades-long devotion to killing children in the womb, the modern Democrat Party is again aligning itself with ideologies and institutions that have little to no regard for vast swaths of humanity. Since the dawn of the twentieth century, socialismthe economic system of communist countriesand abortion are responsible for the deaths of hundreds of millions of human beings. As Breitbart reported late last year, with nearly 42 million killed in their mothers wombs, abortion was the leading cause of death worldwide in 2018. Since the infamous Roe v. Wade decision in 1973, the abortion holocaust has claimed the lives of over 60 million American children. Given such horrific numbers, with unborn children being the most innocent and helpless among us, and given that a mothers womb should be one of the safest places in the universe, the plight of the unborn is the greatest civil rights battle of all time. Yet the modern Democrat Party has never been more hostile to unborn children. As soon as they took control of the U.S. House this year, sex-worshipping democrats wasted little time in revealing their wicked and perverse priorities. In an attempt to end the partial government shutdown, Democrats initial legislative funding proposal sent to the Republican-controlled Senate repealed the pro-life Mexico-City policy and provided $37.5 million for the pro-abortion United Nations Population Fund. Days later, Democrats in New York stood and cheered after Democratic governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law legislation that allows for the killing of children in the womb right up to the moment of birth. In other words, the culture and ideology that gave us the gruesome Kermit Gosnell passed legislation that will only create more infanticidal fools. Not to be outdone in their efforts to kill the most innocent and helpless among us, soon after the New York infanticide bill was signed into law, Virginia Democrats proposed their version of an after-birth abortion bill. Distracting from his blackface scandal, Virginias governor, Democrat Ralph Northam, infamously defended the legislation. Republican senator Ben Sasse put it well when he noted, In just a few years pro-abortion zealots went from safe, legal, and rare to keep the newborns comfortable while the doctor debates infanticide. That Democrats are now debating infanticide shouldnt be very surprising, as no less than Barack Obama himself helped push them along this evil path. Hoping to follow Mr. Obama as the next Democrat president, virtually every Democratic candidate for U.S. president supports what could only be described as infanticide. Martin Luther King Jr.s niece, Alveda King, was exactly right when she asked and answered: How can the Dream survive if we murder the children? Every aborted baby is like a slave in the womb of his or her mother. The mother decides his or her fate. As the Nazis did with the Jews, and as pro-slavery Americans did with black Africans, modern abortion apologists have dehumanized those they find undesirable or those whose lives they want complete control over. On Fox News The Story, author and commentator Rachel Campos-Duffy compared abortion to slavery: Our country has been divided since [1973] when Roe vs. Wade was passed, and I believe that in my lifetime, the only way this is going to be resolved is Roe v. Wade [being] overturned. Its going to go back to the states because this issue is as fundamental as an issue was back in the middle of the 1800s called slavery. This is an issue about who gets to decide who is human enough so they can do whatever they want with that person, or the person theyre saying is not a person. This is such a fundamental human rights issue. Like abortion, socialism is a fundamental human rights issue. In the last 125 years, only socialism rivals abortion in the slaughter of human beings, and like abortion, socialism is a form of slavery. In 1884, in his seminal work The Man Versus the State, philosopher and political theorist Herbert Spencer warned of The Coming Slavery. He wrote: All socialism involves slaveryThe degree of his slavery varies according to the ratio between that which he is forced to yield up and that which he is allowed to retain; and it matters not whether his master is a single person or a society. If, without option, he has to labour for the society, and receives from the general stock such portion as the society awards him, he becomes a slave to the society. Socialistic arrangements necessitate an enslavement of this kindThere seems no getting people to accept the truththat the welfare of a society and the justice of its arrangements are at bottom dependent on the characters of its members; and that improvement in neither can take place without that improvement in character which results from carrying on peaceful industry under the restraints imposed by an orderly social life. The belief, not only of the socialists but also of those so-called Liberals who are diligently preparing the way for them, is that by due skill an ill-working humanity may be framed into well-working institutions. It is a delusion. The defective natures of citizens will show themselves in the bad acting of whatever social structure they are arranged into. There is no political alchemy by which you can get golden conduct out of leaden instincts. [Emphasis mine.] One hundred and thirty-five years ago, Spencerone of the most widely read philosophers of his time and the single most famous European intellectual in the closing decades of the nineteenth centurywarned the world of what socialists would bring and who was diligently preparing the way for them. Nevertheless, thanks mostly to socialist regimes, the twentieth century was the worlds bloodiest. From Chinas Zedong and the Soviet Unions Stalin to Cubas Castro, the twentieth century is littered with godless socialists who attempted to enslave and murder their way to Utopia. Tens of millions died in the forced-labor camps that socialism requires. Tens of millions more died in the poverty and starvation that socialism inevitably produces. Many leading Democrats today unashamedly embrace socialism, including some running for president. Those Democrats who have yet to stoop to praising socialism openly have many policy proposals that are indistinguishable from what one would find in a socialist state. Yet modern American Democrats insist their version of state control of most every facet of our lives will be different. Tragically, as has been the case with abortion, many Americans seem to have bought into the Democrats socialist propaganda. According to a recent Gallup poll, a growing number of Americans have embraced at least some form of socialism. This is mostly due to the increasing number of Democrats who view socialism favorably. As the same Gallup poll also notes, since 2010, a majority of Democrats have had a favorable view of socialism. A similar Gallup poll last year revealed that a significantly larger number of Democrats (57% to 47%) now prefer (have a positive view of) socialism over capitalism. All the information we now have at our fingertipsincluding the nasty scenes from Venezuelaand it seems the lure of spending other peoples moneylike the lure of (supposed) sex without consequencesstill proves too much for too many. It took a civil war to rid the U.S. of the institution of slavery. Let us hope and pray that, in spite of what some are forecasting, it doesnt get to that with abortion or socialism. Trevor Grant Thomas At the Intersection of Politics, Science, Faith, and Reason. www.trevorgrantthomas.com Trevor is the author of the The Miracle and Magnificence of America tthomas@trevorgrantthomas.com Hold on to your hats. At last, we are on the verge of getting to the bottom of the weaponization of the nation's top law enforcement and spy agencies to spy on political opponents, and it is far bigger than obtaining bogus FISA Court warrants to spy on Carter Page. Barack Obama's minions have been spying on his political opponents since before his 2012 re-election, and the entire Russiagate hoax was an effort to cover up that ongoing spying. As I have stated before, the best sources for understanding the unfolding of the biggest political scandal in American history are D.C. super-lawyers Joe DiGenova and Victoria Toensing, who have an unmatched track record in explaining the events we see in the media and predicting the forthcoming revelations. I am not in communication with them, but it does appear they have superb sources which would not be surprising, given their long history as key conservative players at the highest level of the D.C. legal and political circles. Yesterday, Joe DiGenova made his customary Monday-morning guest appearance on WMAL radio's Mornings on the Mall radio show. (WMAL is the premier conservative talk station in D.C.). The 15-minute segment is jam-packed with must-listen insights. In addition to his revelations about the true nature of the Russiagate hoax, there is another quiet bombshell he dropped see the end of this blog post for the tantalizing perspective he revealed. You can listen on the YouTube version here. The basic story is that Admiral Mike Rogers, who was head of the NSA in the spring of 2016, discovered that the NSA's comprehensive database collecting all electronic communications in the United States was being searched by unauthorized FBI "contractors" and moved to cut off that access. He also visited Donald Trump, after which Trump moved his campaign HQ out of Trump Tower. Trump's much derided claim that his campaign was "wiretapped" likely also was the result of gaining this insight from Admiral Rogers. The subsequent launch of Crossfire Hurricane and the effort to obtain FISA warrants were not to initiate spying on the Trump campaign, but rather to provide legal grounding for the spying efforts on political opponents that had been underway for years. Sundance at Conservative Treehouse picked up on the DiGenova interview and in his inimitable fashion lays out the background story from evidence already on the public record, here, complete with many hyperlinks to sources. It is a long and complex post, but some of the key conclusions. Tens of thousands of searches [of the NSA database] over four years (since 2012), and 85% of them are illegal. The results were extracted for?. (snip) OK, thats the stunning scale; but who was involved? Private contractors with access to raw FISA information that went well beyond what was necessary to respond to FBIs requests And as noted, the contractor access was finally halted on April 18th, 2016. [Coincidentally (or not), the wife of Fusion-GPS founder Glenn Simpson, Mary Jacoby, goes to the White House the next day on April 19th, 2016.] None of this is conspiracy theory. All of this is laid out inside this 99-page opinion from FISC Presiding Judge Rosemary Collyer who also noted that none of this FISA abuse was accidental in a footnote on page 87: deliberate decisionmaking: (snip) Summary of this aspect: The FISA court identified and quantified tens-of-thousands of search queries of the NSA/FBI database using the FISA-702(16)(17) system. The database was repeatedly used by persons with contractor access; who unlawfully searched and extracted the raw results without redacting the information; and shared it with an unknown number of entities. The outlined process certainly points toward a political spying, surveillance, and file-building operation; and we are not the only one to think thats what this system is being used for. (snip) There is little doubt the FISA-702(16)(17) database system was used by Obama-era officials, from 2012 through April 2016, as a way to spy on their political opposition. Quite simply there is no other intellectually honest explanation for the scale and volume of database abuse that was taking place. (snip) Everything after March 9th, 2016, was done to cover up the weaponization of the FISA database. [Explained Here] Spygate, Russia-Gate, the Steele Dossier, and even the 2017 Intelligence Community Assessment (drawn from the dossier and signed by the above) were needed to create a cover-story and protect themselves from discovery of this four year weaponization, political surveillance and unlawful spying. Even the appointment of Robert Mueller as special counsel makes sense; he was FBI Director when this began. (snip) Political spying 1.0 was actually the weaponization of the IRS. This is where the term Secret Research Project originated as a description from the Obama team. It involved the U.S. Department of Justice under Eric Holder and the FBI under Robert Mueller. It never made sense why Eric Holder requested over 1 million tax records via CD ROM, until overlaying the timeline of the FISA abuse: The IRS sent the FBI 21 disks constituting a 1.1 million page database of information from 501(c)(4) tax exempt organizations, to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The transaction occurred in October 2010 (link) Why disks? Why send a stack of DISKS to the DOJ and FBI when theres a pre-existing financial crimes unit within the IRS. All of the evidence within this sketchy operation came directly to the surface in early spring 2012. The IRS scandal was never really about the IRS, it was always about the DOJ asking the IRS for the database of information. That is why it was transparently a conflict when the same DOJ was tasked with investigating the DOJ/IRS scandal. Additionally, Obama sent his chief-of-staff Jack Lew to become Treasury Secretary; effectively placing an ally to oversee/cover-up any issues. As Treasury Secretary Lew did just that. (snip) Fusion GPS was not hired in April 2016 to research Donald Trump. As shown in the evidence provided by the FISC, the intelligence community was already doing surveillance and spy operations. The Obama administration already knew everything about the Trump campaign, and were monitoring everything by exploiting the FISA database. (snip) However, after the NSA alerts in/around March 9th, 2016, and particularly after the April 18th shutdown of contractor access, the Obama intelligence community needed Fusion GPS to create a legal albeit ex post facto justification for the pre-existing surveillance and spy operations. Fusion GPS gave them that justification in the Steele Dossier. Thats why the FBI small group, which later transitioned into the Mueller team, are so strongly committed to and defending the formation of the Steele Dossier and its dubious content. The Steele Dossier contains the cover-story and justification for the pre-existing surveillance operation. (snip) Fusion GPS was not hired to research Trump, the intelligence community was already doing surveillance and spy operations. The intelligence community needed Fusion GPS to give them a plausible justification for already existing surveillance and spy operations. Fusion-GPS gave them the justification they needed for a FISA warrant with the Steele Dossier. Ultimately thats why the Steele Dossier is so important; without it, the DOJ and FBI are naked with their FISA-702 abuse. Joe DiGenova dropped one other bombshell that remains to be explored: that he believes that the NSA database contains the 30,000 emails that Hillary Clinton deleted from her server, and that the two U.S. attorneys tasked with investigating the scandals will access those emails in the course of their investigations. Recall that U.S. attorney for Utah John Huber is investigating the handling of the dropped prosecution of her violations of national security law with her home-brew server and possible crimes related to the Clinton Foundation, including, presumably, the Uranium One acquisition of U.S. uranium reserves by Russian interests and the massive donations to the Clinton Foundation. Since the failure of the military uprising at the end of April, Venezuela's Democrats seem to have run out of moral ammo. Sure, another big protest...but cripes, they've done these things for decades, and all they get for them is Chavista thugs shooting into the crowds or as things have advanced since, driving armored military vehicles over them. President Trump isn't in for a U.S. military intervention, which may be a wise move from the U.S.'s perspective, but it's hard news for the Venezuelans. Acting president Juan Guaido has since moved from safe house to safe house in a bid to avoid the Maduro dictatorship's goons... Bottom line: It's bleak out there, and the democrats are running out of ideas. And now they're starting to turn on each other. What Guaido's moved to since is talks with the Maduro dictatorship, in Norway. You know, mediated talks, or dialogue (they're arguing about what this is, actually), the kind of talks that in the past have resulted in the Northern Ireland peace accord of two decades ago, or the agreement between Colombia and its FARC narco-terrorists more recently, a pact that was bulled through despite the Colombian voters' rejection of the whole idea in a 2016 referendum. That same distaste the Colombians showed is now going on among Venezuela's democrats, who are showing scary signs of splitting apart over it. I saw this tweet by Venezuela's respected senior statesman, and my head turned: Guaido advierte contra complices de la dictadura . Algunos Serian Luis Almagro, Maria Corina Machado ,Antonio Ledezma ,Julio Borges y yo mismo por expresar opiniones distintas a la suya https://t.co/ysibYvB67T Diego E. Arria (@Diego_Arria) May 27, 2019 Rough translation from Microsoft with my clarifications in brackets: Guaido warns against "accomplices of the dictatorship". Some [of those so-called accomplices] would be Luis Almagro, Maria Corina Machado, Antonio Ledezma, Julio Borges and myself for expressing different opinions than yours[his]. This is a pretty hard criticism, given that people such as himself and Machado, and most of the others, are so highly regarded as longtime democratic opponents of the dictatorship and Arria in particular, a former United Nations Security Council president, is exactly the kind of guy you'd expect to be all in for talks in a place like Norway, and he's not. And he's not the only one take a look at some of the fiery opposition expressed by Venezuela's democrats at the PanAm Post. To get a whiff of how bad these talks are, take a look at how the Maduro regime is going into them from the Norwegian press: "This is a dialogue between the Revolutionary Government, the Revolutionary Armed Forces, and the extremist opposition... which is trying to topple the government at the behest of US interests," Maduro said. As Robert Conquest has observed, everyone's a conservative about things he knows best... The Venezuelan leaders warning Guaido that this won't work are older, of course, and have more political experience than Guaido, who is just 35. They've been through four rounds of failed talks with the regime over the years already and know how those go. Guaido apparently thinks his will end differently and Maduro and his narco-drug lord cabinet and military leadership will be persuaded to leave office if they can just be talked to. It's also not that surprising. Guaido, as it happens, is from a Chavista rancho (slum) background. He's been identified as a socialist or center-left leaning leader in some reports. And he's very young with probably some kind of leftist education even if not rank Chavista propaganda. However, he's not an idiot, and he knows he's up against a Marxist narco-dictatorship whose money comes from illegal drug shipments. Maybe more disturbingly, he's doing this just to stay alive. Carlos Alberto Montaner notes that he's under pressure from Europe to engage in these talks as a condition for their continued recognition of his government, so the whole thing may be a matter of personal survival. But to think the Venezuela crisis at this point may end in a Velvet Revolution or a negotiated settlement defies reason. And not only is Guaido ignoring the other Venezuelans about the Norway thing and forging ahead; he's actually accusing people such as Arria of being "with the dictator." Suffice to say, this is not going to end well. Instead of criticizing, he ought to be doing something far tougher and scarier at this point such as raising money for an army to take the Maduroites out. That would be a unifier. The Norway talks are a divider. There are some 4,000 Venezuelan military defectors he can work with, and reports suggest they are motivated. There's also Venezuela's retired military, many of whom quit to get away from the Cubans, and some have declared similar motivation. I don't know if Guaido's scoped out any of Venezuela's angry neighbors for the cash it's possible he has and been turned down but he needs to keep asking because his moral and persuasion ammo has run out. A Gandhian non-violent resistence revolution or an Eastern European-style Velvet Revolution is not going to happen. Not admitting that is a cowardice of sorts. What's remains now is finding a way to oppose Maduro in the language of force that Maduro can understand and if it means anything, it may take sacrifice. In other words, it's Bolivar time, and Guaido's remaining option is not talks, and not fighting with his fellow democrats, but doing what Simon Bolivar did: Raise an army. Yes, it's distasteful, and yes, it's going to cost blood and treasure, but that is about all that is left. Freedom isn't free. If you have a right to liberty, then there are times when you are going to have to fight for it. The pope and respectable society will criticize, but they're ignoring the violence and force already coming from the other side. The 20th century up until now has been loaded with non-violent resistance movements for enacting change. In that regard, Guaido is fighting the last war. But it's not the war he's now got in front of him. History's great leaders always recognize the moment when it comes, a time for war, a time for peace, and right now, Guaido appears to be missing it. With the opposition splitting apart and the useless talks moving forward, this looks like a set-up for something pretty tragic. One can only hope now that Guaido keeps the maneuver short in order to correct course. Image credit: Leo Alvarez via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. How to look at Venezuela's oil industry? Well, Venezuela has the largest known crude oil reserves in the world. That is the good. And within those reserves, it has an abundance of extra heavy crude oil, which is hard to refine. That is the bad. Within that challenge, the socialist nation has some of the most inept people in the world managing its industry: Venezuelan politicians. That is the ugly. Venezuela wrestled with this "bad" problem of extra-heavy oil for decades. Luis Giusti was president of Venezuela's national oil company, PDVSA, in 1994, several years before Hugo Chavez was elected president and set the country on its current course. Giusti had two key visions: consolidate the PDVSA sister companies into one, and develop the extra-heavy crude oil Venezuela held in abundance. Giusti created "la apertura," or "the opening," to invite international companies in as partners, each to secure a field with known extra heavy oil with rights to remove as much as they wanted within a period of 35 years. After that, all assets would revert to PDVSA. There were other provisions such as PDVSA having to have a minority interest in a consortium for the production of oil needed to occur within five years of granting the lease. Giusti wanted innovation from the international community to excel over the short-term lease for Venezuela to benefit even more in the future. The terms were attractive, and the companies did come. For example, one consortium invested over $3 billion to produce and export 195,000 barrels per day of lighter, sweeter crude from this molasses-like fluid. The comparable "go" price of West Texas Intermediate crude oil needed to be at least $14.50 per barrel for the partners to break even in 1998. If the price of WTI were $54.50 a barrel, the margin would be $40 a barrel. If the system operated 350 days a year for 25 years at this price, the return to the partners would be about $70 billion, so many partners were interested. In fact, international consortia built four of these extra-heavy oilupgraders in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Exports from these upgraders approached 800,000 barrels per day. President Hugo Chavez tightened nationalization of the oil industry in 2007 much more than it had already been, expropriated some holdings of foreign investors, and all went downhill from there. He got the profits he was looking for, for a time, at least, and those profits were used to fuel his revolution, pay off socialist cronies such as Cuba and Nicaragua, and line his and his cabal's own pockets. Crumbs were left to maintain production and processing facilities of the oil industry that remained. Then the quality of the upgraded oil product became inferior to the time when the upgraders were being managed by the international consortia. Now the big, bad ugly is unfolding. The incompetence. The unfit people running the industry. The politicization of the industry in place of what had been professionalism. Water has been shut off in my wife's family's pueblos for three months. There are eight-hour-plus rolling blackouts during the day. Venezuelans do continue to buy gasoline at pennies to the gallon. However, they must wait in lines of 20 vehicles or more and are limited to 30 liters per tank, or about eight gallons. As oil production falls more than 50% of its pre-Chavez highs, the bus-driver in charge, Nicolas Maduro, has no idea what he's doing. Most people do not realize that oil refineries are designed to receive certain crude oils to process into transportation fuels and other products. One reason why the delay of the Keystone pipeline by Obama was such a disappointment is that the U.S. oil industry pre-invested in refineries to receive and process this oil. That is where the big ugly comes in. Venezuela is now importing very light sweet crude from Nigeria to blend with their lower quality product from their poorly managed four extra-heavy oilupgraders to be able to sell it on the open market. I would like to hear Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez explain the socialist benefits of this enterprise with her economics degree from Boston University. Correction: Based on an editor's error, an earlier version of this piece misstated the name of the author. Image credit: Pixabay, public domain, with modification by Monica Showalter. In a Chinese restaurant the other day, my fortune cookie message was this: "Leaders are like eagles. They don't flock...you find them one at a time." Not your usual fortune cookie note. No credit given for such a wise little sentence, probably because it is commonsense observation. This little bit of universal truth made me smile. It was a timely reminder of how fortunate we are to have elected Donald Trump, not a member of any flock, which is why the D.C. establishment hates him so much. They are all of a flock. They think alike, act alike, do business alike, barter for favors in the same ways. For the most part, party identification is irrelevant. Most of the major players collude with each other. We conservatives must be grateful for the exceptions to the rule: Ron Johnson, Devin Nunes, Matt Gaetz, Chuck Grassley, Lindsey Graham, Jim Jordan, and Ted Cruz. There may be others momentarily out of mind, but the lesson of the quote is how rare real leaders actually are. We know now that both Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan would have been leaders but have since betrayed their stated conservative principles. Neither of them recognized Trump as the leader he is, and both have shamelessly sought to sabotage him. They are not the only ones. Justin Amash comes to mind, as do all the Republicans in Congress who quit because they thought Trump would be found guilty of the Russia collusion meme invented by that cabal of arrogant criminals in the Deep State who believed themselves to be above the law. What has become of our American government? It long ago became an elite club of like-minded self-appointed elites who care only about preserving their own power and prestige. They care about enriching themselves, and they do indeed become very wealthy. Nancy Pelosi and Dianne Feinstein are among the richest members of Congress. Shouldn't we see their tax returns? What do they do for their constituents? Absolutely nothing. San Francisco, whence their political base springs, is a disaster of Democrat malfeasance. So is Los Angeles. Both cities are longtime Democrat strongholds. California is a one-party state, and it is Democrats who have singlehandedly destroyed it. Like Chicago, Detroit, and Baltimore, Democrat-run cities are like third-world entities, crime-ridden and corrupt. For decades, they've been run by flocks of "progressives" and have regressed into medieval bastions of the very rich versus the very poor. That's the way they like it, the middle class be damned. The Left wants to be the boss, like the ridiculous Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, to mandate how the rest of us live. The Left is a flock of wanna-be overlords. In their dreams, leftists revere Mao, Ho Chi Minh, and Stalin. Leftists such as Tom Friedman admire China and the way it is run; it's a communist dictatorship, and he writes for the NYT. The NYT is a member, perhaps the leader, of the flock. Its editors think they lead, but what they really do is propagandize as surely as Orwell's masters of a fictional universe manipulated its subjects. They lie. Orwell was more prescient than most authors; he understood how easily language could be corrupted, and he knew how catastrophic that corruption of language could be. That Trump was elected is some kind of miracle. Somehow, enough people were awakened to the planned obliteration of American exceptionalism implemented by the Obama administration to get the man who promised to drain the swamp into the presidency. He is a leader who is like an eagle; he is one of a kind, a loner, an interloper into the world of American politics. For decades, he has been blasting what is wrong with our trade policies, etc. Now he is in a position to do something about the injustices all previous presidents have accepted as what must be. And he is doing it. God bless the man who is not a member of a flock, but our eagle who soars above the fetid swamp. ASUS had introduced its ZenFone 6 flagship earlier this month, and now the company actually decided to release a special edition of the phone, for a special occasion. With the announcement of the ASUS ZenFone 6 Edition 30, the company is essentially celebrating 30 years of existence. This handset has been announced in Taipei, as part of Computex 2019, and it is more powerful than the regular ZenFone 6 variant, obviously. The regular ZenFone 6 comes in 6GB and 8GB RAM variants, the 6GB RAM variant is available with 64GB of storage, while the 8GB RAM model comes in 128GB and 256GB storage flavors. Well, this special edition phone packs in a whopping 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, that is the only variant that is available. The design of this phone is almost identical to the regular model, but the looks of the phones backplate are different than on the original unit. Advertisement The back side of this device features iconic Zen-inspired concentric-circle patterning in Matte Black, and all of that is covered by ergonomic 3D-curved glass. On top of that, you will also find an Edition 30 logo on the back. The rest of the devices specs and design is the same as on the regular model. That means that youre getting a phone that is made out of metal and glass, which has not notch and no display hole. ASUS actually opted to include flip-up cameras on this smartphone, two cameras which are on the back by default, but they flip up to become front-facing cameras when needed. The phone has a high screen-to-body ratio, and it is fueled by the Snapdragon 855 64-bit octa-core processor, one of the most powerful mobile processors in the market. A regular, capacitive fingerprint scanner can be found on the back of the device, while the phone does include a thin chin below the display. Advertisement This smartphone features a 6.46-inch fullHD+ IPS LCD display, and that display is HDR10 certified. The ASUS ZenFone 6 Edition 30 utilizes a 48-megapixel camera on the back, as its main sensor, and this is the same sensor that both HONOR and OnePlus included in its flagships. The secondary camera on the back comes with an ultrawide lens, and were looking at a 13-megapixel sensor. The company included a dual-LED flash on the back of this phone, and the device actually includes both stereo speakers, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. A 5,000mAh battery is also a part of the package here, while the phone supports 18W fast charging. Interestingly enough, youre also getting 10W reverse charging with this smartphone, just in case you need to charge up some additional devices. Android 9 Pie comes pre-installed on the device, along with ASUS ZenUI 6, which is much different than the previous version. ASUS opted to de-bloat its skin, and its now really close to stock Android, and the company has been praised for that. Advertisement The company still did not announce the price tag for this phone, but ASUS did say that it will manufacture only 3,000 units of this phone, as its a limited edition handset. More information about pricing and availability will follow soon. A mysterious new listing on the popular Geekbench Browser is stirring up plenty of speculation this week after being spotted with conflicting specs and an even more confusing model designation, Google eve-arcnext. The device shows fairly conservative marks hovering right around 2120 and 3800 for single-core and multi-core scores, respectively. The appearance of Google in the model designation for the listings is relatively unimportant since nearly every Chromebook run through the benchmark shows as a Google device, irrespective of the actual OEM. The codename behind that designation, at first glance adheres to both Pixelbook conventions, which utilize the eve codename for the underlying board, while arcnext has typically been used by Samsung for its Chromebook Pro devices. Confusing hardware? Advertisement In terms of the hardware listed as driving those marks, the devices are listed with an Intel placeholder chipset with 8GB of RAM and four cores at 3.30 GHz. Interestingly enough, those are also listed with the identifier ARM implementer 78 architecture 8 variant 0 part 0 revision 0. The Intel processor used in at least one current eve model from Google actually does use an Intel Core i5 thats clocked at 3.30 GHz. The latter part of the listing seems to point to the very same ARM Cortex-A76 cores used in Qualcomms Snapdragon 855 SoC. Adding to apparent disconnect in specs, the benchmark itself is shown as running via Geekbench 4.2.3 for Android ARMv7, rather than the Geekbench 4.3.2 for Android x86 (64-bit) that would be expected with an Intel chip. Depending on which benchmark for Google eve-arcnext is examined, the listings also vary between showing Android 32-bit and Android 64-bit. Advertisement Its common knowledge that scores for a benchmark are easy to manipulate and that hardware underneath the scores is too. Installing certain applications on a device or preinstalled applications can return false readouts. So both Intel and ARM appearing in the same listing is not necessarily very telling, although other eve-arcnext listings use only placeholder without mentioning Intel so it could be. The Chrome OS device underpinning the testing would presumably need an entirely new board designation if this were based on completely different hardware than its Pixelbook counterparts too. Breaking down the name Advertisement Based on the name alone, there are arguably two directions the designation in question could lead. Samsung has consistently used real-world names such as Kevin or Caroline alongside arcnext for variations of its Chromebook Pro devices. Its also been a very long time since the South Korean tech giant brought any major updates to its Chromebook Pro lineup. So, the listing could point to a new Samsung Chromebook Pro in the works with a quad-core 3.3GHz processor perhaps even a Snapdragon 855-powered Chromebook Pro. Conversely, the arcnext designation could be viewed in combination with the eve codename as something more mundain. Namely, this could be a software test for a new generation of Android Runtime for Chrome (ARC) that is undergoing testing on a Google Pixelbook. Advertisement Various reports from around the internet have looked at that possibility and it seems plausible, given the difficulty currently facing Google with respect to developers using Chrome OS for app development. The present iteration of ARC and the use of container-based Linux to develop apps via Android Studio is in beta for the time being. It doesnt presently allow those apps to be properly tested either on the Chromebook or via a test device attached to the Chromebook. So this may be a test for a new runtime environment meant to help push the development of those types features and others forward, with respect to Googles new focus on Chrome OS as a developer platform. Around two weeks back, HTC shared its schedule for the Android 9 Pie rollout and as promised, the HTC U11 has now started to receive the latest version of Android. However, right now, only the users in the companys home country of Taiwan are getting the update but hopefully, it wouldnt be too long before other customers also get to upgrade from Oreo. As HTC had said on its social media pages earlier this month, the HTC U11+ and the HTC U12+ will also join the bandwagon next month. The mid-range U11 Life has already received the Pie update, thanks to its inclusion in the Android One program. So far, HTC hasnt said if any phone other than the aforementioned ones will also get a taste of the Pie. As with any other software update, it is recommended that you make sure your device is all juiced up before proceeding. The update weighs around 1.36GB, so make sure you have the required storage space. Other than that, it is also a better idea to download the latest software version over WiFi, otherwise, you will most likely be charged for using mobile data. Advertisement Once you are done, you will be treated to a host of new changes, including gesture navigation, screenshot editing, smarter app search results, and Digital Wellbeing. Along with that, the update also promises system enhancements. As HTC points out, following the update, Google+ will be removed from BlinkFeed because Google has shut it down. Google announced Android Pie back in August 2018 but most devices werent too quick to catch up. However, HTC stands out as it is noticeably late to the party. After all, flagship devices from other vendors have now started receiving Android Q beta. It is especially surprising to see that newer devices like the U11+ and U12+ are still running Android Oreo. There was once a time when HTC used to roll out timely updates. However, those days are long over, and the company is clearly struggling right now. HTC has not been doing well since the last few years. Google has acquired most of its smartphone-making division and the beleaguered manufacturer hasnt been very active since then. The future of its U-series handsets also seem uncertain and it hasnt released a phone since the U12+. Advertisement Thats not to say that HTC has exited the smartphone market. Per reports, the company has a smartphone codenamed HTC 2Q741 in the pipeline. The mystery device will apparently be fueled by the MediaTek Helio P35 SoC. And thats not all, as rumor mills also say that two more phones are in the works, including a 5G flagship that is tipped to be released in the second half of the year, and a Snapdragon-710 powered device. The company has also confirmed that it will release a successor to the Exodus 1, its first blockchain phone. The decision was presumably spurred by the fact that the first generation device performed as expected. However, a blockchain phone will attract niche users at best, and thus, the company will also have to work harder on a mainstream device to attract the masses. Of course, thats easier said than done, as the smartphone shipments have been declining since the last few years and the competition has intensified. But then again, HTC has seen better days, and it will surely not go down without a fight. Another scandal starring Huawei appears to be on the horizon, with the company on Tuesday disclosing its reviewing its business relationship with FedEx after the Memphis, Tennessee-based shipping firm attempted rerouting two foreign packages sent to one of its Chinese addresses to the United States. The parcels were sent from Japan and had no reason to be diverted to the U.S., Huawei officials claim. FedEx attempted rerouting another couple of packages sent from Vietnam to other Huawei arms in Asia but the Chinese firm managed to stop that from happening. The shipping company had no authorization and provided no reasoning for doing what it did, according to Huawei. While the exact contents of the packages are unknown, Huawei said the shipments only contained documents and contained no technologies. The Shenzen-based firm also refused to speculate on the reasoning FedEx might have had for attempting to divert the shipments without authorization, though the context of the incident certainly lends itself to speculation; the executive order U.S. President Donald Trump signed on May 17 and the subsequent supply ban American companies were issued in regards to Huawei left the worlds second-largest smartphone manufacturer without many key technologies required for its operations to run unobstructed. Advertisement With FedEx being an American company, it isnt implausible that the firm might have been pressured by the U.S. government to divert the packages and have them inspected by American authorities; after all, its subject to U.S. laws which are bound to place higher on its list of compliance priorities than customer contracts. Even if Huawei was to sue FedEx, which also isnt an impossible scenario, the shipping service provider would likely sue the Trump administration in response, assuming it diverted the packages following pressure from its home country. Naturally, thats a purely hypothetical scenario, yet its hard to imagine a reason FedEx would deem good enough to go against its customers wishes, especially given the extremely high profile of this particular customer and the fact it allegedly rerouted multiple shipments, suggesting the incident wasnt an accident. A Huawei spokesperson said the company is reviewing the entirety of its document transportation setup as a result of the latest ordeal as part of a prepared media statement. FedEx itself refused to comment on any specifics of the case, having said that doing so would be against the company policy of disclosing sensitive customer information. Then again, its not like rerouting packages containing sensitive customer information is in line with its policy either. For the time being, the shipping service provider is working with Huawei in order to resolve the issue at hand and maintains the problems disclosed by Huawei constitute an isolated issue. Advertisement Theres no doubt about whether Huawei feels hard done in this development as the company would otherwise never reveal this story to the media. The Chinese arm of FedEx already apologized for the ordeal publicly, resolving to do so via social media earlier today. U.S. government officials are also refusing to comment on whether the mishandling which is how FedEx is describing the incident of the four packages is related to the Huawei ban President Trump ordered earlier this month as part of his latest move in the trade war against China. Of course, the Trump administration isnt describing it as such. (AP) On stage, amid the hubbub of a Bolivian street market, women recount their stories of abuse at the hands of men. But the violence depicted in the play isn't just make-believe for the 22 indigenous actresses: It's based on their own real-life experiences. "Kusisita," a work that seeks to raise awareness about violence against women and mobilize people to fight it, has been drawing large audiences in Bolivia, which has one of South America's highest rates of femicides. In the theater, Maria Luque portrays a woman who asks her drunken husband to stop abusing her. In her own history, she said, she was so brutally beaten by the father of her four children that she was left partly paralyzed. Even after more than a decade, she still has trouble moving some of the muscles in her face. "I've suffered discrimination since birth," she told The Associated Press. "My mom was very poor and she escaped violence. For some, (violence) might be normal, but we want to show that it shouldn't be that way." "Kusisita" is one of two plays offered by the Kory Warmis Women of Gold in the Aymara language troupe, and both focus on the problems of gender violence and convincing women to reject it. "I was quiet, submissive, but I left that behind on stage. Theater is now my life," said Luque, 56, who immigrated to the city of El Alto from a rural community in search of work opportunities. The plays, presented in Aymara, are also aimed at indigenous communities where nearly half of all reports of gender-based violence takes place, according to 2017 figures from the National Statistics Institute. Those communities make up roughly a fifth of Bolivia's population. About 40% of the country's police cases involve family violence and alcohol is involved in 90% of cases, according to a government report last year on gender-based violence. "It's a very high and alarming rate," said government minister Carlos Romero, who helped write the report. Actress Gumercinda Mamani, an artisan and shepherd , recalled how the body of a friend was found on the outskirts of La Paz with marks from a rope that her partner had used to choke her. "It's hard to understand how the man that you give your life to is the one who takes it away," said Mamani, a former representative for female farmers. "I'm fighting against this." Carmen Aranibar, another actress, joined the group in the hopes that her story would encourage other women to leave abusive relationships. "We can't wait until they kill us or we want to take our own lives out of the desperation caused by violence," said Aranibar, a mother of two boys who sells diapers for a living. She said she endured beatings by her partner for more than 10 years before finding out that he was cheating on her with a younger woman. "I nearly killed myself," she said. "I put up with everything he did because I was afraid that he'd leave me. But then I realized that it wasn't worth it and I left him. I'm happy here and that's what I tell in the play." The theater group, which was founded in 2014, finds itself gaining an audience as waves of women mobilize to fight gender violence across the world. In neighboring Argentina, a grassroots movement known as "Ni Una Menos," or Not One Less, emerged in 2015 and drew thousands to hold massive demonstrations in support of women's rights. But while movements in Bolivia have lacked the impact of Ni Una Menos or the #MeToo movement in the United States, some say the plays have had impact. "It's a success, 100% percent," said Paola Ricalde of the La Paz mayorship's directorate for equality policies. Theater group director Erika Andia said it's challenging to oversee a group of women who have been forced to be silent and submissive. But she said that their strength of will helped them achieve their goal of "discovering what they're capable of, helping them loosen up and boost their confidence." "We never thought we'd reach so far," Andia said. "There are no limits to what we do. Every year we continue to grow and there's happiness after all the pain that our actresses have suffered." Once again, Huawei delivers the very best smartphone camera on the market for photography Its been a year since Huawei amazed us with the P20 Pro, and now theyre back with this years hot new follow-up, the P30 Pro. Undoubtedly the highlight of the P30 Pros camera from the get-go is the new periscope camera, which surpasses the typical telephoto style camera in several ways. While its still an 8MP sensor, the lens itself has changed drastically. The sensor is now recessed inside the body quite a bit because a new f/3.4 5x optical zoom lens is now in front of it. As you might expect, this new periscope lens makes a drastic difference in zoom performance, even coming from the incomparable Mate 20 Pro. While the Mate 20 Pro offered an impressive 3x optical and 5x hybrid zoom, the P30 Pro offers 5x optical and 10x hybrid zoom, with an insane 50x digital zoom max. Thats quite literally 5x the zoom offered by any other phone on the market, and youll be amazed at how many scenarios this changes for the better. Advertisement Direct comparisons show the absolutely massive gulf in performance in any type of lighting condition, particularly good light, where it genuinely looks like the P30 Pros image was replaced with some sort of stock imagery, while the other phones struggle to deliver more than an obvious blurry digital zoom mess. Some people may scoff at the difference here and wonder what sort of circumstances this could actually be useful in. Its been dubbed the creeper cam by a few out there, and while thats not a fair assessment of the purpose, it could always be used for nefarious things. Aside from that, the possibilities are truly endless. Advertisement Take a look at this historic hotel example above. Zooming into the ceiling tiles reveals an astounding level of hand-crafted detail in each and every face. Or how about the facade on the outside of the building that you could never quite get close enough to really appreciate with the naked eye. These types of details tend to get lost with many other phones, but its easy with the P30 Pro. The f/3.4 lens means that it doesnt have quite the dynamic range or low light performance that a lower f-stop rating could bring, and the sensor size doesnt help things too much either, but it still outclasses everything out there no matter what light its presented with. Advertisement There are plenty of scenarios where a traditional side-by-side comparison simply isnt possible, and thats because its really just too hard to snap an action photo or video with two phones at this zoom level. Recording birds flapping around in the birdbath, or flying around the bird feeder, is a crisp, clean experience with the P30 Pro. Heck, any kind of nature photography or videography taken with this phone simply doesnt even compare to others out there. Its a truly unique experience that only this sort of insane lens technology can deliver, and it impresses no matter the situation. Since that telephoto lens doesnt get utilized until you reach 5x zoom, theres certainly a reason you might worry about the results between 1x and 5x zoom. Thankfully, the 40-megapixel main sensor is put to good work here and provides amazing digital zoom detail that meets or exceeds the quality of other phones with dedicated telephoto lenses. This is similar to what we saw on the HONOR View20 with its single 48-megapixel camera. 4K video can be recorded with any of the lenses, but it feels most impressive with the 10x hybrid zoom simply because of how far you can reach with the optics. There is an obvious issue from the get-go with this periscope camera though: youll need to have a super steady hand, or just mount it on a tripod. Huawei has gone some pretty great lengths to improve the stabilization capabilities on the P30 Pro, which are monumentally better than any previous generation Huawei phone, but its still going to be quite shaky if youre trying to hold it still with your hand. Advertisement The biggest issue we had was related to exposure, where the phone would sometimes freak out and flicker between several different exposures to maintain a bright image, resulting in video thats distracting. There are almost no options pertaining to video either, other than resolution and a few other things, but no exposure lock or decent manual controls of any kind, which is a huge disappointment given the incredible hardware behind this phone. Huawei added a cool new dual video feature in a recent update, which splits the screen in half and records from two cameras at a time. While youre not likely to use this all that often, it presents a rather unique way of recording videos thats not found elsewhere and uses more than one camera at a time as well. One side will record from the ultra-wide camera at all times, while the other uses the main or telephoto cameras, depending on zoom level, with support for up to 15X zoom. Advertisement Its also got some great stabilization thats a significant improvement over what weve seen on past Huawei phones but seems to work best during motions like walking. Zooming far in and holding the phone by hand still results in a fair bit of hand jitter, which detracts from the overall quality of the imagery at hand. Aside from the cool new dual-video mode, Huawei has improved video recording drastically over any previous generation phone from the company. Advertisement Last year we loved the photos that both the P20 Pro and Mate 20 Pro produced, but video recording quality was severely lacking on those phones in some very basic ways. This time around Huawei has clearly been spending time to address those exact problems, and the results speak for themselves. Like the photos, the color accuracy in videos is second to none, and oftentimes youll notice its not just the white balance thats more accurate, its also the colors themselves, which are more muted and realistic than the ones from Samsungs phones, for example. In this particular sunset example, youll find the ultra-wide angle camera is slightly less detailed than Samsungs ultra-wide angle camera, but the colors and exposure look better than the Galaxy S10, as much of the shadow detail is crushed on the S10s video. Detail improves significantly when switching to the main camera on the P30 Pro, and eclipses Samsungs video quality in every regard when comparing the two main cameras at this time of day, a time which often delivers fuzzy video on phones as its somewhere in-between that easy, crisp daylight processing and the significantly more difficult nighttime processing, resulting in higher ISO as the phone tries to still capture enough light to make the scene bright. Advertisement Moving into nighttime video, the P30 Pro absolutely crushes other phones like the Google Pixel 3, a phone that already takes generally good quality video in most lighting conditions. The detail and noise difference between the two is simply astounding in many areas and shows how hard Huawei has worked on improving this piece of the puzzle, in particular. If youve seen our Mate 20 Pro camera review, for instance, youll know how bad the nighttime video taking was just a few months ago on Huawei phones and how far theyve come in such a short period of time. As covered previously, the crazy 5/10/50x zooming abilities from the photo modes all work just as well in video and work to significantly enhance detail and overall quality when compared to every other phone on the market, even ones with telephoto lenses that can help in these areas. That main sensor is the same 40MP 1/1.7 one from the Mate 20 Pro but has an upgraded f/1.6 lens, up from the f/1.8 on the Mate 20 Pro. That means even better low light performance just on physics alone, let alone the new software tricks Huawei has employed, and boy oh boy are these some unbelievable software tricks. Weve seen Huawei push the boundaries of whats possible with low light photography out of an auto mode shot before, but the P30 Pro even outclasses night modes on most phones with just its auto mode, and its all in the way Huawei is pushing its sensors to do more than ever. While we were astounded by the 100,000-plus ISO on the P20 Pro last year, Huawei has quadrupled the possible maximum ISO to 409,600, allowing for some truly unprecedented low-light photography, all without having to stand still and wait while the phone takes several dozen pictures or super long exposures. Surprisingly, even with these higher ISO levels, the amount of noise in shots is lower than other phones all while still being brighter and more detailed. Its an astounding technical win that directly translates into better pictures for everyone. Night mode has seen an improvement too, just like auto mode, and the same powerful combination of automatic smarts combined with optional manual controls make this the most versatile night mode in the industry. Its nothing short of bliss using this phone in the dark, much less even moderately low light, and youll be impressed with the results every time. The wide-angle camera is identical to what we saw on the Mate 20 Pro, including the same 20MP 1/2.7 sensor with f/2.2 106-degree angle lens and subsequently identical results. Ultra-wide angle cameras have thankfully started to become the norm on flagship phones, and thats a great thing for everyone. Its not just about wide-angle though, its also about super macro, as Huaweis autofocus module and specialized lens make it easy to get ultra close to subjects with this camera, significantly enlarging detail that you might otherwise miss. Lastly, well take a look at portrait mode and the front-facing camera. Portrait mode is as good as ever on the rear camera and often meets or exceeds the quality of other flagships that excel in this area. Huaweis edge detection is superb and the ability for it to utilize portrait mode in lower light than other smartphones makes this a win. The front-facing camera has seen another upgrade in megapixel count, but with a tiny sensor like this, its only going to make a difference in good lighting. In general, its not the best front-facing camera out there, and that goes for portrait mode on this camera as well. The Galaxy S10 and Pixel 3 have it beat, sometimes by a fair margin. Its not a bad experience by any means, just not class-leading as most of the rest of the camera experience is. All in all, this is another winner for Huawei, particularly when it comes to video, where were looking at the biggest improvement to overall quality for a single component of the camera experience in a long time. That periscope camera is a huge deal for anyone looking to get a little closer to the action, both in photos and video, and Huaweis nighttime photography and videography skills have never been better. Once again, if you want the absolute best smartphone camera on the market for photography, its Huaweis latest flagship that you want to pick up. To say that Huawei has a long history of issues with both the United States government and American companies would be an understatement. And for the most part, you can certainly see where its critics are coming from, even its staunchest proponents have a hard time denying that. However, the latest ordeal that engulfed the company is hardly its own fault in spite of its past missteps and hard-to-ignore shadiness. The Trump Card Advertisement Regardless of how you feel about the current administration assembled by President Donald Trump, you really have to give it to the man he can really rile people up and while the general contents of his policies and public speeches arent too much more difficult to predict than whats been the case with his predecessors, his day-to-day actions are certainly a wild rollercoaster. Thats pretty much what got the U.S. into the largest trade war in modern history and what eventually led to the ban Huawei got hit with ten days ago. Washington can cite national security issues all its wants and it doesnt even have to make them up; those concerns stemming partially from Huaweis lack of transparency, partially from its close ties to Chinas communist government are neither unfounded nor ridiculous. But theyre also not new, yet the polarizing ban is. So, what changed? The answer is rather obvious: the guy occupying the White House did. Make no mistake, this trade war thats been weighing heavy on both the U.S. and Chinese economy for over a year now isnt just the primary reason for the Huawei ban its the only one. Sure, some Democrats might have found it in themselves to publicly approve the move but its not like Trump cares about what they think, thats a courtesy he doesnt even extend to most members of his own party. Advertisement No, the only benefit the 45th U.S. President was going for here was applying extra pressure on China as a continuation of the only negotiation tactic hes experienced in bullying. Im even criticizing the move, just observing what the man himself is saying. Huaweis laughing? And what hes saying is that he has no issues with using Huawei as leverage in order to gain an upper hand in his trade negotiations with China which are unsurprisingly going nowhere after a year; yup, it turns out bullying a nation thats been bullying its own people for quite a while now is no mean feat. Advertisement Huawei is all too happy to draw attention to his publicly shared thoughts on the matter, including the fact he previously insinuated hed be prepared to even attempt influencing the U.S. judicial system and the case against the companys CFO Meng Wanzhou. That absolutely bizarre case is still ongoing but even as his technological empire is facing an unprecedented crisis while his daughter is trapped in Canada, desperately fighting off a U.S. extradition attempt meant to put her on trial threatening up to 30 years in prison, Huawei founder Ren Zhengferi is laughing, actually. Laughing at what he describes as a ridiculous example of overreach and misleading international policy claims. His The Line Of Relevancy Advertisement Is the fifth generation of mobile networks going to lead to unprecedented technologies and, more importantly, reliance on those very same technologies? Undoubtedly. Would it hence be wise for the U.S. to allow Huawei to play a critical role in its domestic 5G rollouts? No way. Is any of that directly relevant to the May 17 blacklisting the federal government led by President Trump resorted to? Nope. After all, its not like Huawei has been raking in the cash from its U.S. operations prior to the ban. Sure, many small carriers across rural America depend on its infrastructure in order to keep delivering mobile service to customers no one else deems profitable serving but thats not where the big bucks are. In fact, thats barely where any of them are, seeing how slim profit margins are a large part of the reason why Huawei is so competitive in the wireless space in the first place. Sure, its a pioneer but its not like the likes of Ericsson and Nokia are peddling 20th-century tech. However, they simply cant afford to charge as little as Huawei does for obvious reasons. Now, whether thats right or wrong is an entirely different debate altogether but thats where things currently stand, so the fact that the Trump administration is seemingly willing to bankrupt American carriers just to pressure China is truly amazing. Advertisement The bottom line is that as shady as Huawei is and regardless of whether one thinks they deserve to be in their current predicament or not, theres no mistaking how they ended up facing sanctions threatening their very existence. Sure, theyre unlikely to go under regardless of what happens next but lets not pretend Android would somehow be better off without the second-largest smartphone manufacturer on the planet contributing to its source code on a regular basis. Theres plenty of legitimate reasons to criticize Huawei but being caught in the process of Trump learning that trade isnt a zero-sum game isnt one of them. Huawei has taken about a week, to really respond to the ban that President Trump placed on the company nearly a week and a half ago. It is now getting ready to fight back, and in a big way. The company is filing a motion today, asking the court to declare the law unconstitutional. Saying that the ban is a quintessential bill of attainder and a violation of due process. Huaweis lawyers say that the bane was as punishment for alleged prior misdeeds and unsubstantiated allegations that it is associated with Chinas communist party. Huawei has denied this many times, and is continuing that stance. Song Liuping, who is Huaweis Chief Legal Officer, has also said that this law doesnt allow for Huawei to rebut the argument that the company works with the Chinese government. It also doesnt allow Huawei to produce proof that it does not work with the Chinese government, nor does it spy on its users. Advertisement And that is why Huawei is choosing to fight back, as it believes that it has done nothing wrong, and if that is true, then they should fight back. Huawei already has a lawsuit against the US and against Canada for other issues that the company has encountered in the past few months. Which included its CFO getting arrested and potentially extradited to the US. Now, its filing a motion which asks the court to declare this law unconstitutional. This wouldnt be anything new for the Trump Administration, as it has been sued multiple times, and courts have found its executive orders in violation of the constitution a few times too. Most notably, the travel ban from early 2017. Advertisement The fight between the US government and Huawei isnt anything new. The US government has been very weary of Huawei for many years. Dating back to the Obama Administration, who wasnt sure if Huawei was tied to the Chinese government or not. But under President Obama, many investigations were opened and closed, looking into Huawei and its possible ties. It found zero proof of Huawei working with the Chinese government and zero proof that it was spying on its users. One of those investigations was over 18 months long, and found zero proof. Things werent so bad for Huawei under President Obama. But once Trump took office, things took a turn for the worse. A big reason for that is Trumps America First logic, and wanting better trade deals with some of the US partners, like China. Trump wants to push Huawei out, so that US companies can thrive in the US. Though, when it comes to smartphone makers, theres really only one smartphone made by an American company, which is Apple. Things have steadily gotten worse under Trump, and now Huawei is being used as a pawn in the trade war between two of the worlds most economically powerful countries: China and the US. This motion may not reverse the ban, but it is a pretty interesting tactic for Huawei to use. If it is deemed unconstitutional, there is a chance that itll get reversed. But the damage may have already been done to Huaweis brand and reputation in the US and around the world. YouTube Gaming will reach its unfortunate demise on May 30, Google has announced. That shouldnt come as too much of a surprise, though the company first revealed in September that, after introducing the clients core features in the standard YouTube application, it would kill off the YouTube Gaming application. The move has come a little later than expected, however. Google first said that YouTube Gaming would be suspended in March. For some reason, it failed to meet its self-imposed deadline and as a result the application is still available to download and use to this day. But that will change on May 30, when its discontinued. As it stands, the bulk of YouTube Gamings client can be accessed through YouTube itself. Google has noted that the rest will be ported over after YouTube Gaming is axed. There is a caveat, though: Content thats been saved or viewed through YouTube Gaming will not be moved over to the universal YouTube client. Advertisement We want to continue to build a stronger home for the gaming community that thrives on YouTube, not just the YouTube Gaming application, explained Google in a blog post on its YouTube Gaming Help forum. After May 2019, well retire the YouTube Gaming app and focus our gaming efforts across YouTube, it added. From June, YouTube Gaming will vanish from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, and those attempting to visit the dedicated website will be redirected to the Gaming section of YouTube. It is believed, on the other hand, that those with the application installed on their device will be able to use it for the foreseeable. In fact, some have speculated that YouTube Gaming will act as a shortcut to the Gaming segment of the YouTube application; while others believe that the application will continue to function like normal, serving up content just like it would before it was discontinued, until an update is installed to decommission it. Advertisement If thats true, those wanting to continue to use YouTube Gaming will need to disable the Play Stores auto-update feature. Theyll also need to refrain from resetting their device, as once the client has disappeared or been updated to a later version, it should (in theory) vanish from the Play Store and stop working altogether. Then again, Google, being the wizard it is, could have opted for a more stringent decommission and could force all active installations null and void right off the bat, which would mean that the YouTube Gaming application would be nothing short of a virtual paperweight, so there would be no real reason to keep it around. Whatever the case, its always sad to see a service turn to dust especially a popular one. That said, we should note thats not exactly whats happening here. Google is just unifying the YouTube experience to put it in a better position to compete with the likes of Twitch, which serves mainstream and niche content in one central location. Advertisement So, to recap: The YouTube Gaming application will be discontinued on May 30, when it will take up its new home in the standard YouTube client. Marysville, CA (95901) Today Cloudy with periods of rain. Low near 40F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.. Tonight Cloudy with periods of rain. Low near 40F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch. From disrupted biological clocks to radiation and contamination hazards, Europe is running experiments on the International Space Station to take human exploration one step closer to Mars. As a new week starts on planet Earth, continuous research in orbit brings new knowledge about the challenges of making a trip to the Red Planet a reality. Martian rhythm A crew on a journey to Mars would live outside of the 24-hour cycle of light and darkness we experience on Earth. So do astronauts on the Space Station who experience 16 sunrises and sunsets every day. Scientists believe that such disruption has an impact on the astronauts' biological clock. To see how long-duration spaceflight affects people, NASA astronaut Anne McClain wore two sensors - one on the forehead and another one on the chest - for 36 hours as part of the Circadian Rhythms experiment. For the fifth and last time during her mission, Anne's core body temperature and melatonin levels were monitored. Results will be compared to those taken on Earth before and after her mission to understand the effects and how to counteract them during deep space missions. Strategies for adapting - or not - to new rhythms could shed light on sleep disorders and help people on Earth that live outside of the natural cycle, staying up late or working night shifts. The pass of time could also be an issue for a trip to Mars that would last over 500 days. Recent research shows that astronauts underestimate time in orbit, just as they have an altered perception of distance in space. Canadian Space Agency astronaut David Saint-Jacques and NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nick Hague gauged how long a visual target appears on a laptop screen and their reaction times to these prompts recorded to process speed and attention. This was all part of the Time experiment, a relevant research because a misperception of time may cause delayed reactions and create risks for crew safety. Oxidative Mars Space takes its toll on the human body. An interplanetary mission to Mars will see astronauts ageing faster. The International Space Station provides a unique opportunity to both reproduce the effects of ageing and study the huge oxidative impact. The European Nano Antioxidants experiment is seeking innovative antioxidants to stimulate cells in the battle against muscle loss. Living cells and ceramic particles were placed in the Kubik incubator for six days, housed in ESA's Columbus module. Half of the samples were kept at close to zero gravity, while the rest were exposed to the same gravity as Earth. The cells are now frozen at -80C and waiting for their ride home on 3 June aboard the SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft. Findings from this research could aid the development of new supplements to support astronauts on missions to Mars. As soon as humans leave the protective shield that is Earth's atmosphere, space radiation becomes a serious concern, especially if headed to Mars. Radiation levels in space are up to 15 times higher than on Earth. The Dosis-3D experiment helps understand space radiation and how it penetrates the Space Station walls. Eleven radiation detectors attached to the walls of Columbus record how much radiation gets through and help create a complete picture of space radiation inside the Station. The latest data downlink on 21 May marked seven years of continuous measurements in space for Dosis-3D. Resistant materials for the interplanetary journey Radiation also has an impact on hardware. The ICE Cubes facility is ESA's faster, lower cost answer to making science happen in space. One of the "cubes" - small modular containers slotted in the Columbus lab - is investigating commercial computer boards' resistance to space radiation. Bacteria and fungi can become a threat for both human health and equipment as they tend to build up in the constantly-recycled atmosphere of the International Space Station. European researchers are addressing this contamination with the Matiss-2 experiment. This study aims to find better materials to build a space station or spacecraft, especially important on our way to Mars. Scientists will analyse the materials to see how the bacteria formed biofilms that protect them from cleaning agents and also help them adhere to surfaces. This week David Saint-Jacques packed the seventh sample holder with anti-microbial surfaces to be shipped back to Earth for analysis. ESA has demonstrated expertise in studying Mars from orbit, now we are looking to secure a safe landing, to rove across the surface and to drill underground to search for evidence of life. Our orbiters are already in place to provide data relay services for surface missions. The next logical step is to bring samples back to Earth, to provide access to Mars for scientists globally, and to better prepare for future human exploration of the Red Planet. This week we're highlighting ESA's contribution to Mars exploration as we ramp up to the launch of our second ExoMars mission, and look beyond to completing a Mars Sample Return mission. Join the conversation online with the hashtag #ExploreFarther Please follow SpaceRef on Twitter and Like us on Facebook. Oriol Junqueras election to the European Parliament means the hot potato has been passed back to Justice Manuel Marchena, the president of the Supreme Court, which is hearing the case against the referendum on the independence of Catalonia. This comes 72 hours after the decision by the Spanish parliaments Bureau to suspend Junqueras who is currently on remand from his position as MP in Madrid. Judge Marchena had refused to rule on the application of article 384 bis of the Criminal Prosecution Law concerning the suspension of Oriol Junqueras, Jordi Turull, Jordi Sanchez and Josep Rull to the Congress of Deputies. Instead, he suggested they be suspended in accordance with article 21 of the Congress. The Bureau in turn considered said option to be inapplicable, leading it to "act like the Supreme" and suspending them in accordance with article 384 bis. However, now that Junqueras has been elected to the European Parliament, who will apply 384 bis? Aside from the Supreme Court, Marchena has no one who can suspend him. The situation is the following. Freddy Drexler, a French national and head of the European Parliaments legal service, has already issued a statement in response to a request from its president, Antonio Tajani, of 25 March, concerning Spanish elections to the Euro Parliament and the immunity of the newly-elected parliamentarians. After analysing Spanish legislation, Drexler concludes: "In the case in question, a candidate with an outstanding arrest warrant in Spain may stand in an election to the European Parliament". Nevertheless, he goes on to warn that "it requires their presence in Madrid to swear an oath to the Constitution and thus be eligible to be included in the list sent by the Spanish authorities to the European Parliament". Drexler adds: "If he is arrested when doing so [appearing in Madrid], it would be up to the Spanish authorities to decide whether to grant him permission to be sworn in as an MEP". In the case of Carles Puigdemont and Toni Comin, the statement confirms that the two newly-elected MEPs [currently residing in Belgium] would have to appear in Madrid to be sworn in, if they are to be included on the list which Spain must send to the European Parliament. Furthermore, according to the opinion issued by Drexler, the MEPs who were elected last Sunday take their seats and begin their five-year term following the opening session of parliament, scheduled for 2 July. However, Junqueras situation is different from that of Puigdemont and Comin. In fact, Junqueras has already stated that if he were to be elected as an MEP, he would give up his seat in the Spanish parliament, where he has already been suspended. Although he remains on remand, the Supreme Court will still have to allow him to leave prison to take an oath of allegiance to the Constitution in Madrid city. This is a necessary step before his name can be included on the list of elected lawmakers which the Spanish authorities have to send to the European Parliament. What will happen next? Will Junqueras be allowed to travel to Strasbourg to attend the opening session of the European Parliament on 2 July? Who will ultimately be the person responsible for suspending him by applying article 384 bis which, according to Drexler, is the responsibility of the Spanish judicial authorities? Incidentally, the court does not have a means to apply article 384 bis via the Bureau of the European Parliament. The court will, therefore, have to do what it refused to do: take responsibility for the suspension of Oriol Junqueras once he has already been made an MEP and has sworn an oath to the Constitution, without having to wait for the opening session on 2 July. The agreement was signed by the chiefs in command from both entities, Mohammed A. Ahli, director general of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and CEO of dans, and Khalifa Al Zaffin, executive chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation. The signing formalities were conducted also in the presence of Suzan Al Anani, chief executive officer of Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP), and Ibrahim Ahli, Deputy CEO of dans. Dans has multiple training courses that address all technical, operational as well as theoretical subject matters in the field of Air Traffic Management (ATM) are going to be offered. The facility primarily focuses on creating a global training hub from within the Emirate of Dubai that has the capacity to train individuals who are already experienced in the ATM sector and are keen to enhance and develop their operational aptitude and skills further, in addition to individuals who are looking to enter this unique field and pursue a new career opportunity within. Ahli said: In line with the economic vision set for the Emirate of Dubai and in alignment with our dedication to support HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE, Prime Minister & Ruler of Dubai slogan of connecting minds to build a better future, and as a result of the continuous leadership and support we receive from HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, dans Chairman, the launch of the dans Training Facility is going to mark a very important and unparalleled milestone in the history of the ATM sector in the United Arab Emirates. The signing of the leasing agreement which now identifies the location is a crucial positive step in the right direction for the training facility, whose name shall soon resonate across local, regional and international fronts for being the leading operational training provider synonymous for quality driven contemporary taught operational courses. The facility shall open its doors to not only professionals working in the UAE, international caliber working in the sector interested to further enhance their skills will also be accommodated in the courses. Moreover, operating such a unique facility that is specialized as such from within the UAE, also supports our efforts in preparing and equipping Emirati talent with the necessary skills required to succeed in an ever growing ATM sector which continuously requires keeping up with the fast pace of innovation and its developments. On that note, we would like to express our appreciation for the synergy we have received from DACC led by H.E. Khalifa Al Zaffin, the Executive Chairman, as they have incubated the initiative of the facility enabling this important milestone to occur, as we establish Al Maktoum International Airport as the CenterPoint of the facility from where all future operational trainings will commence. Now known as Sanad Aerotech, the new identity marks an important moment in the companys development, building on three decades of experience in the aviation industry. The new brand positioning reflects Mubadala Aerospaces focus on engineering excellence, underpinned by industry-leading reliability, innovation and technology. The Sanad Aerotech entity continues as a wholly owned subsidiary of Mubadala Investment Company, and Mansoor Janahi continues as its Chief Executive. Mubadala will announce further details on the wider brand integration as part of its renewed focus on collaboration across its portfolio, later this year. Badr Al Olama, executive director Mubadala Aerospace & Defense, said: Over the last three decades we have built a world class, globally integrated aerospace MRO in Abu Dhabi. Stretching back to Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies and its predecessor Gulf Aircraft Maintenance Company (GAMCO), the new Sanad Aerotech brand builds on a track record of technical excellence and delivery that has put Abu Dhabi on the global aerospace map. It marks an important point in the evolution of the business that will support customers in navigating the complex choices they face. This strategic new identity will reflect a new milestone whereby technology and innovation will be at the forefront of our MRO business. The United States does not abandon attempts to disrupt the Turkish deal to buy Russian S-400 air defense missile launchers. It even advanced an ultimatum, but Turkey is unlikely to cede. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has recently said he would like to procure the prospective Russian S-500 weapons. It was the first statement about the intention to buy the latest Russian arms. The Izvestia daily writes whether S-500 will be as successful on the global market as its predecessors. S-500 characteristics are unknown so far. The available information claims it can be used against satellites and missiles (Picture source: Vitaly V. Kuzmin) When S-500 is discussed, it is to be remembered it has not yet been accepted into service in Russia. It will be possible to discuss export potential when serial procurement begins. The new weapon is more expensive than S-400 and the range of potential buyers will be smaller. It is clear that CIS countries should be excluded because of the price, as well as Greece which acquired S-300. It will hardly find the money and NATO would not allow buying the weapon. Besides, Russia will not sell S-500 to anyone because of potential technology leaks. Turkey is a new bidder for the latest Russian air defense missile launchers. Ankara even offered to launch joint S-500 production with Russia. It means the ultimatum from Washington does not work and the disruption of the S-400 deal is unlikely. Besides, it is not in the US interests to blackmail Ankara by threats to deny it F-35. Under which terms can Turkey buy Russian S-500? It mostly depends on when the weapon is ready for sale and the bilateral political climate. The second question is the price and delivery terms. A half of the S-400 deal is financed by a Russian loan. Turkey is likely to insist on a loan in the S-500 deal as well. Much will depend on the economic situation in Turkey and Russia and the ability to repay S-400 loan. Anyway, if S-500 is offered for export, Turkey is unlikely to encounter major problems. China may be interested in S-500, but will not buy them in major volumes. It can afford 2-3 billion dollars to obtain and study the weapon. S-500 is necessary to defend political and military centers. Gulf countries - Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar can also become buyers of Russian S-500 with time. The first two may need it to defend from Iran, while Qatar often buys expensive weapons for political gambling rather than defense. Theoretically, Egypt may also buy the weapon. Much will depend on diplomatic negotiations. Algeria bought S-300 and may eye S-500. But the country is at crossroads and people may come to power who are not oriented towards Russia. Iran is also a hypothetical buyer of Russian air defense. But upcoming developments and prospects of arms trade are unclear. Tehran should be interested in S-500, but has to find the money. It is also unclear whether new restrictions can be imposed by the United Nations or Russia itself. S-500 characteristics are unknown so far. The available information claims it can be used against satellites and missiles. The ability to fight missiles is of interest for potential buyers. But there is a problem for them. S-500 is very vulnerable. It must be an element of multilayered air and missile shield. To obtain S-500 it is necessary to have S-400, S-300, Buk, Tor, Pantsir-S air defense weapons. If unprotected by short and medium-range air defense, S-500 can be easily destroyed by relatively simple weapons, the Izvestia writes. Copyright 2019 TASS / Army Recognition Group SPRL . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Batsheva Dance Companys Ohad Naharin told Army Radio, BDS is against the occupation, something I sympathize with. Ive always said that if protesting and boycotting my performances would improve the situation in the territories or bring a solution to the conflict, I would support the boycott myself. There were prompt calls from some members of the public for Naharin to be stripped of all previous honors and for state funding of his work to be withdrawn. Haaretz (Israel) The field for the second edition of the $157,000 Camluck Classic has been drawn and it was Ideal Jimmy drawing the coveted rail position while Rockin Ron, winner of last years signature race, will leave right in behind from the trailing post eight. Sintra, the lone local horse, has drawn post five for the husband-wife team of driver Jody Jamieson and trainer Stephanie Jamieson. The son of Mach Three will enter the Camluck Classic with a 6-1-0 record in his last seven starts. Done Well, who captured the Confederation Cup in 1:50.2 in his last start, will be one of two starters for trainer Ron Burke. The son of Well Said has earnings approaching $600,000 and boasts a 2-1-0 record from three starts this season. He will line up from post two. Below is the complete field in post position order: 1. Ideal Jimmy 2. Done Well 3. The Wall 4. Southwind Amazon 5. Sintra 6. Rockin Speed 7. Trump Nation 8. Rockin Ron More than $400,000 in purses will be offered up on the program which will get underway at 6:55 p.m. The complete draw for Friday nights program will be held on Tuesday morning and will feature a powerful undercard which includes the Ontario Sires Stakes Grassroots divisions for three-year-old pacing fillies. A quartet of City of London Series finals will also be contested that night with more than $100,000 up for grabs for three-year-old colts and fillies on both the trot and pace. Race fans can tune into a special online broadcast of the Camluck Classic from The Raceway beginning at 10:30 p.m. The one-hour broadcast is part of a three-race series sponsored by the Central Ontario Standardbred Association (COSA). The broadcast will be streamed on the Standardbred Canada website and aired via the Flamboro Downs, Grand River Raceway and Raceway at Western Fair District Facebook pages. For more information, visit WesternFairDistrict.com. (WFD) The hatchback gets a complete visual and mechanical overhaul with a new set of powertrain options. Rear wheel drive hatchbacks are a rarity and they are renowned for their dynamic capabilities. The BMW 1 Series followed this path as it came with a rear wheel drive layout and good dynamics. The third-gen 1 Series has been revealed with a complete visual and mechanical overhaul. However, the biggest news is that it now sends power to the front wheels instead of the rear. The hatchback will be available in four variants : Adventure Line, Luxury Line, Sport Line and M Sport. Available in four variants : Adventure Line, Luxury Line, Sport Line and M Sport. Powered by two petrol (M135i and 118i) and three diesel engines (116d, 118d and 120d). Gets a major styling overhaul and more space thanks to its new platform. Slated to launch in global markets on September 28. New BMW 1 Series might not make it to India anytime soon. The car has undergone a huge makeover with respect to styling. It continues to feature BMWs kidney grille flanked by a new pair of headlamps and signature LED DRLs. Just like all other current-gen Beemers, the 1 Series grille has grown in size. The bumper looks sharp, with contrasting inserts and a large air dam. The same design ethos is carried over to the sides and the rear with a sweeping beltline and aggressive looking tail lamps and bumper design. The overall stance of the premium hatchback has now been transformed, the previous iteration had a long hood with a short rear similar to the ones seen on fastbacks. The cabin too has received a major overhaul and is now in tune with bigger cars that roll out of Bavaria. The instrument cluster is now fully digital and is coupled to a 10.25-inch infotainment system. Other features include a panoramic roof, BMW digital key, personal assistant, wireless charging, ambient lighting, and a host of other assistance features. Owing to its front wheel drive architecture, the 1 Series now has more interior space, with more knee room and shoulder room for the rear occupants than before. Boot space has also gone up by 20 litres as it now stands at 380 litres. The 1 Series also gets an electric tailgate for the first time. Internationally, the 1 Series will be available with two petrol engines and three diesel engine options. However, BMW will not be offering any inline-six motors with the 1 Series. Instead, it has to make do with a choice of 4-cylinder and 3-cylinder engines with outputs ranging from 114PS to 306PS. The top-spec 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine is the most powerful engine on offer, making 306PS and 450Nm of torque. It comes mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Top speed is rated at 250kmph, with 0-100 kmph coming up in 4.8 seconds. The good news though is that this engine will come with an xDrive all-wheel drive system in the performance-oriented M135i variant. The 120d xDrive is the top-of-the-line diesel variant. It is powered by a 2.0-litre engine producing 188PS and 400Nm, paired to an 8-speed automatic that sends power to all four wheels. BMW will showcase the all-new 1 Series in Munich, Germany during the #NextGen event that is set to take place between June 25 and June 27. The German brand will also take the wraps off the much-awaited 8 Series Gran Coupe during the show. While the worldwide official launch of the 1 Series is slated for September 28, deliveries are set to begin by the end of this year. Theres no confirmation on whether it will make it to our shores or not. With the last gen model discontinued in India in 2017 due to lackluster sales, will the new 1 Series with its updated powertrains and features make sense in India now? Let us know in the comment section. The tribunal also directed Bakshi to file a report on the development by filing an affidavit in the matter before it. Both McDonald's and Bakshi had moved to withdraw cases filed against each other before the NCLAT to settle their dispute. (Representational Image) New Delhi: The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) on Tuesday gave four weeks' time to Vikram Bakshi to settle his dispute with state owned-HUDCO which is claiming dues of Rs 195 crore from the McDonald's estranged partner. A two member bench of the appellate tribunal headed by Chairman Justice S J Mukhopadhaya said this would be the "last chance" to Bakshi to settle the dispute with Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO). "We allow four weeks time to Vikram Bakshi to settle the matter with HUDCO," said the NCLAT. The tribunal also directed Bakshi to file a report on the development by filing an affidavit in the matter before it. Earlier this month, fast-food chain McDonald's and Bakshi had announced to reach an out-of-court settlement, buying out its partner's stake in their JV Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt Ltd, which operates fast food chain in northern and eastern India. Both McDonald's and Bakshi had moved to withdraw cases filed against each other before the NCLAT to settle their dispute, which was then opposed by HUDCO claiming dues of Rs 195 crore on Bakshi. During the proceedings, counsel Amit Sibal representing Bakshi informed the NCLAT that he has already paid Rs 66 crore to HUDCO and land was also in their possession. "We have already paid Rs 66 crore, and are ready to pay another Rs 70 crore" he said, adding that "4.65 acres of unencumbered property worth Rs 300 crore is already in the possession of HUDCO." Sibal further submitted that Bakshi has deposited Rs 10 crore before Debt Recovery Tribunal on this Tuesday. He further contended that the DRT order was no more a hindrance as he has already paid as ordered, and HUDCO was raising an issue with respect to the debt recovery court order. On this NCLAT said: "there cannot be a settlement in contravention of any judicial order", in reference to the order passed by the Debt Recovery Tribunal in HUDCO's case against Bakshi." Earlier, on May 9, the presiding officer of DRT II Delhi had directed Bakshi not to transfer his 3,100 attached share of Connaught Plaza Restaurant Ltd (CPRL), a Joint venture between him and McDonald's India. HUDCO had moved NCLAT, seeking a stay on the settlement till Bakshi makes the payment. The appellate tribunal also instructed Bakshi to explore the possibility of a settlement with HUDCO. Bakshi had given guarantee to HUDCO against a loan of Rs 62.38 crore to Ascot Hotels and Resorts for a commercial project in Noida, Uttar Pradesh in 2006. Ascot Hotels and Resorts defaulted and was declared as NPA in August 2011. To recover the loan, HUDCO moved the DRT in 2013 and requested to attach 3,100 shares (having a value of Rs 1,000 each) in CPRL, which were in the name of Bakshi. On this, DRT on February 2, 2016 issued "interim directions restraining Vikram Bakshi from alienating or transferring or creating any third party interest in the 3,100 shares of CPRL or any other quantity in the name of Vikram Bakshi till further orders. Later HUDCO came to know about the settlement between Bakshi and McDoanld's, it moved an intervention application before the NCLAT, where both have filed petition against each other. "The settlement so arrived at between the appellant (McDonald's India) and respondent (Bakshi) with regards to transfer of shares to the appellant without settling the dues of the applicant/intervenor (HUDCO) will cause grave and irreparable losses to the public exchequer," said HUCO, adding that it can not proceed without its approval. The brand has presence in 36 countries across emerging markets of Africa, Latin America, MENA region, South and South East Asia. Kolkata: Infinix, a premium smartphone brand from Shenzhen (China)-headquartered Transsion Holdings stable, is betting big on sub-10K smartphone segment in the online space. The overall smartphone market in the country is estimated to be 140 million units (by the end of 2018). Nearly 30 per cent- 35 per cent of this overall sales comes through online sales. And Infinix, a relatively new entrant in this segment in India, is eyeing close to 5 per cent market share in this segment by the end of the current calendar, said Anish Kapoor, CEO, Infinix India. Our focus in India, for the time being, is on the online space, more particularly in the sub-10,000 segment (Rs 5,000-Rs 10,000 price bracket). That is the most relevant sector for us. That is the sector, where we can add lots of values, by way of adding features, which the consumers are looking at. And given the fact that consumers today do not want to use a particular handset for far too long, Infinix would like to refresh its entire range every six/seven months. Our portfolio will have 2-3 products in the category at different price points and we will refresh them on a regular basis, said Kapoor, who was here in connection with the roll out of its latest device S4, promising to offer the best camera experience in its category. The wearables market in India is estimated to be 1 million units/month and is growing steadily. And that is another where Infinix is gearing up to expand its footprint, he said. Infinixs product ecosystem fits right into this preference segment, and we have always received positive response towards our products. With S4, we aim to have a breakthrough in the below 10k smartphone segment, which has great demand but experiences limited to non-existent competition till now, he said. The brand has presence in 36 countries across emerging markets of Africa, Latin America, MENA region, South and South East Asia. Besides the Chinese company operates two more brandsitel and Tecnoin India. On Sunday, Kashyap thanked the Mumbai Police, its cyber cell and author Brijesh Singh for helping him with the filing of the FIR. Mumbai: Anurag Kashyap has filed an FIR against the social media user who threatened his daughter with rape over the filmmaker's criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The troll, whose Instagram handle had 'chowkidar' before his name, had sent a vitriol-filled message to Kashyap's daughter on Instagram while also abusing the director. Tagging the prime minister's official Twitter handle, Kashyap on Thursday wrote, "Dear @narendramodi sir. Congratulations on your victory and thank you for the message of inclusiveness." "Sir please also tell us how do we deal with these followers of yours who celebrate your victory by threatening my daughter with messages like this for me being your dissenter," Kashyap said, sharing a screenshot of the offensive post. Also Read | Modi Bhakt threatens Anurag Kashyap's daughter, filmmaker complains Narendra Modi On Sunday, Kashyap thanked the Mumbai Police, its cyber cell and author Brijesh Singh for helping him with the filing of the FIR. "Anyways I want to thank @MumbaiPolice @MahaCyber1 @Brijeshbsingh for helping me with filing the FIR . Thank you so much for the amazing support and starting the process .Thank you @Dev_Fadnavis and thank you @narendramodi Sir. As a father I am more secure now," he added. Anyways I want to thank @MumbaiPolice @MahaCyber1 @Brijeshbsingh for helping me with filing the FIR . Thank you so much for the amazing support and starting the process .Thank you @Dev_Fadnavis and thank you @narendramodi Sir. As a father I am more secure now . Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) May 26, 2019 Before that, Kashyap called out the double standards of people on social media, who criticised him for tagging PM Modi in the tweet where he had raised the issue. "The irony with social media is when I say vote for your constituent so one can take their problems to them, they say Vote for the PM. When you tag PM to the tweet they say it's not his responsibility go to the constituent (sic)," he wrote. The irony with social media is when I say vote for your constituent so one can take there problems to them, they say Vote for the PM. When you tag PM to the the tweet they say its not his responsibility go to the constituent. Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) May 26, 2019 Kashyap's initial tweet led to a war of words with Ashoke Pandit, who claimed that the screenshots were photoshopped, done by an "urban naxal". While Kashyap is the man behind acclaimed films such as "Dev D" and "Manmarziyaan", Pandit is president of the Indian Films and Television Directors Association and a producer. He has co-produced the "The Accidental Prime Minister" based on the memoirs of former prime minister Manmohan Singh's media advisor Sanjaya Baru. Bhai has had a meeting with Rohit Shetty. They had a very fruitful discussion and expressed their desire to work with each other. Salman Khan and Rohit Shetty met recently, leading to rumours of them working together. Well, the good news is that they are going to be working together and the bad news is that we need to wait. Bhai has had a meeting with Rohit Shetty. They had a very fruitful discussion and expressed their desire to work with each other. They have discussed a few plots as well and if all goes well, we will see them working together soon, says a source. When we asked Salman at a recent event during the promotions of Bharat, the actor confirmed that he had a meeting with Rohit regarding a film project as well. Rohit has worked with the biggest stars in Bollywood including Ajay Devgn, Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh, Amitabh Bachchan and Akshay Kumar and it does seem that it is time for him to join forces with Salman. Sources also say that Rohit has had an idea for a cop project, which he intends to make with Salman and is a part of a larger plot to expand his films on the cop universe. Sanskriti Media The lower court had rejected Oberoi's plea noting that investigation into the case was incomplete. Mumbai: Television actor Karan Oberoi, arrested on charges of raping and blackmailing a woman, has approached the Bombay High Court for bail after a sessions court rejected his plea for the relief earlier this month. The lower court had rejected Oberoi's plea noting that investigation into the case was incomplete, and hence it would be incorrect to release the accused on bail. In his petition filed in the HC Monday through advocate Dinesh Tiwari, Oberoi claimed he was falsely implicated in the case, and that it was a consensual relationship between him and the woman. The 40-year-old, who has acted in television serials and appeared in commercials, was arrested earlier this month after the woman, who was in a relationship with him since 2016, lodged a complaint with Oshiwara police alleging that Oberoi had raped her on the pretext of marriage. She also alleged that Oberoi shot some objectionable videos of her and demanded money while threatening to release these clips. The HC is likely to take up Oberoi's petition for hearing next week. Earlier on Monday, squadron of MiG-21 aircraft led by IAF chief flew in missing man formation to pay tribute to Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja. Kargil war, also known as the Kargil conflict, was an armed conflict between India and Pakistan that took place between May and July 1999 in the Kargil district of Kashmir and elsewhere along the Line of Control (LoC). (Photo: ANI) Saharanpur: Led by Air Chief Marshal (ACM) BS Dhanoa, the Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters will fly in a missing man formation from Sarsawa base on Tuesday to pay homage to IAF jawans who lost their lives when an Indian Mi-17 helicopter was shot down by Pakistan during the Kargil war. 14 Corps Commander Lieutenant General YK Joshi will also be part of the team. Earlier on Monday, a squadron of MiG-21 aircraft led by the IAF chief flew in the missing man formation to pay tribute to Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja who was killed in action in Operation Safed Sadar during the Kargil war. Kargil war, also known as the Kargil conflict, was an armed conflict between India and Pakistan that took place between May and July 1999 in the Kargil district of Kashmir and elsewhere along the Line of Control (LoC). The IAF had played a key role in enabling the Indian Army to recapture the majority of the positions on the Indian side of the LOC infiltrated by the Pakistani troops and terrorists. The war came to an end on July 26 with a decisive victory for India as it regained Kargil and Pakistan being criticised globally for instigating the war and for making its paramilitary forces cross the LoC. Sampath embarked on a four-day 'spiritual sojourn' in Sri Lanka to pay homage to blast victims. Arjun Sampath was earlier an Hindu Munnani (an RSS affiliate) functionary and later founded the HMK. (Photo: File) Chennai: Hindu Makkal Katchi founder-leader Arjun Sampath visited Sri Lanka and paid homage to the victims of the Easter Sunday serial blasts and those killed in the 2009 civil war, the Tamil Nadu based right-wing outfit said Tuesday. Sampath embarked on a four-day "spiritual sojourn," to the island nation on May 23 and visited the Kandy Murugan temple, Sita Eliya (temple), and also took part in an event at a Shiva temple in Jaffna. He paid homage to the civilian victims of the 2009 civil war between the government forces and the now defunct Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, the outfit said. Sampath also paid homage to the over 250 people killed in the serial blasts on April 21. On May 28, he returned to Tamil Nadu, the Hindu Makkal Katchi (HMK) added. Arjun Sampath was earlier a Hindu Munnani (an RSS affiliate) functionary and later founded the HMK. Last year, five men were arrested for plotting to eliminate him and his son Omkar Balaji. The project was inaugurated by the district collector on Tuesday. District health officers, with the help of a Unicef team, have been working on an affordable incinerator for some time. (Photo: Representational) Ahmedabad: As the country marked World Menstruation Hygiene Day on Tuesday, nearly 350 schools of Sabarkantha district in Gujarat will get a unique incinerator. In a first-of-its-kind project in the state, the district health authority has designed and developed an incinerator which will solve the problem of proper disposal of used sanitary pads. The project was inaugurated by the district collector on Tuesday. To dispose of used sanitary pads is the biggest issue today. We were in constant search for proper solution. Finally with the help of local craftsmen, we have been able to develop an incinerator made from cement which is very low cost and eco friendly too, said Manish Fensy, district health officer of Sabarkantha. District health officers, with the help of a Unicef team, have been working on an affordable incinerator for some time. They contacted local craftsmen to replicate the more expensive models with some modifications. An expert from IIT-Mumbai was also consulted initially. They finally succeeded in developing the incinerator made of cement and designed to generate less smoke making it eco friendly too. The health authority has ordered 500 incinerators; 150 are ready and will be distributed to 350 secondary and higher secondary schools of the district as a pilot project as soon as schools reopen after the vacation. Five nursing colleges will also be given an incinerator free. A free electric vending machine for the pads will also be given to schools that have at least 300 girl students. The usual type of incinerator would have cost us Rs 2600, but this locally made model costs only Rs 300. Schools will take ownership of it and will see that used pads are burnt regularly, Dr Fansy said. BJP had anticipated the collapse of coalition and a surge in its tally in the assembly after the LS election results. Bengaluru: Political turmoil has taken Karnataka by storm as fate of the state government hangs in uncertainty. The infighting between the Congress and JD(S) members has raised some questions on the sustainability of the coalition. In the 224-member Assembly, the Bharatiya Janata Party is the single largest party with 105 members. The BJP has been trying to destabilise the Congress-JD(S) coalition ever since the alliance got the required numbers and formed government in May 2018. A year later, many MLAs are unhappy for being kept out of the Cabinet. Besides, the Congress has 79 MLAs in the Assembly and the JD(S) has 37 MLAs so when the CM's position and about 10 ministers were given to the JD(S), the Congress MLAs felt that the party has ceded too much power to the lesser ally. News18 has reported the speculation that it would be the JD(S) ministers who would be asked to step down to allow more Congress ministers in the government to reach a negotiation. Many in the JD(S) like D C Thammanna and C S Puttaraju both ministers from the Mandya region have already said they would willingly step down if asked to. There is one vacancy after the death of C S Shivalli about two months back. Former Karnataka CM & BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa has said, We have won 25 out of 28 seats in Karnataka (Lok Sabha election). It is a historic win. It is better if the government is dissolved and mid-term polls are held. No BJP MLA is in touch with Congress or JD(S). The BJP had anticipated the collapse of the ruling coalition and a surge in its tally in the assembly after the Lok Sabha election results, claiming 20 odd Congress MLAs were unhappy with the government and might take any decision. Earlier former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah said that the coalition was strong and dismissed Yeddyurappas claims of rift between the parties. Home minister MB Patil, of the Congress, did not comment on imminent resignations and said, "This government will last four (more) years. Nobody can disturb it." Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy has asked media to keep patience. Modi will be sworn in for a second term as prime minister on Thursday at 7 pm in Rashtrapati Bhavan. I have spoken to other Chief Ministers also. Since it is a ceremonial program, we thought of attending it, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said. (Photo: ANI) Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who had a bitter spat with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Lok Sabha elections, has been invited to attend his swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, which she has accepted. "I have spoken to other Chief Ministers also. Since it is a ceremonial program, we thought of attending it. Yes, I will go," she told media here on Tuesday. The two leaders had indulged in a war of words during the campaign period in the run-up to the elections, in which the BJP has made deep inroads into the Trinamool territory in West Bengal by winning 18 Lok Sabha seats out of 42. The TMC's victory was reduced from 34 in 2014 to 22 in 2019. Modi will be sworn in for a second term as the prime minister on Thursday at 7 pm in Rashtrapati Bhavan, along with members of the Union Council of Ministers. 'Yeddyurappa has been saying that the govt will fall. He will continue to say the same for the next four years,' Siddaramaiah said. 'Yeddyurappa has been saying that the govt will fall. He will continue to say the same for the next four years,' Siddaramaiah said. Bengaluru: Former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah on Monday asserted that the Janata Dal (Secular)-Congress government was a "strong" one and ridiculed state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president BS Yeddyurappa for repeatedly claiming that the coalition will collapse. In a series of tweets, he also said the people's mandate was for continuation of the BJP-led government at the Centre and not for "toppling" the state government. "Yeddyurappa has been saying for the past one year the government will fall. He will continue to say the same for the next four years. I am confident the government is strong," Siddaramaiah said. Referring to Prime Minister Narenda Modi bowing to the Constitution after being elected leader of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance on Saturday, he sought to know which article in the Constitution gave the BJP the right to topple a state government. "@BSYBJP (Yeddyurappa) claims to form the govt inspite of not having the number. This is not a new drama but this is continuously misleading the public. Mr. @narendramodi bowed to the Constitution but in which article has the constitution given the right for @BJP4India to destabilise our govt (sic)," the Congress Legislature Party leader asked. He asserted that all Congress lawmakers, including dissident leader Ramesh Jarkiholi, were with the party and nobody was leaving. Dismissing Yeddyurappa's claim that the state government would collapse on June 1, Siddaramaiah dared him to resign from his post if his prediction did not come true. The BJP has predicted the collapse of the ruling coalition and an increase in its tally in the assembly after the LS poll results, claiming that 20 odd Congress MLAs were unhappy with the government and may take any decision anytime. Siddaramiah said the outcome of the Lok Sabha elections, in which the BJP won 25 seats, was for continuation of the NDA government at the Centre and not for toppling the government in the state and make Yeddyurappa chief minister again. "It's nonsense to say the assembly should be dissolved because the Lok Sabha election results were against us," Siddaramaiah said. Yeddyurappa on Sunday told news agency Press Trust of India that it was impossible for the BJP to form a government with the Janata Dal (Secular) (JDS) in the event of the present coalition government collapsing and favoured fresh assembly elections. "We are ready for fresh assembly elections. There is no option left for our party," Yeddyurappa had said, citing the failure of the previous coalition arrangement between the JD(S) and the BJP in 2007. His comments came against the backdrop of speculations that the JD(S)-Congress coalition would fall in view of the poor showing in the Lok Sabha elections. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara also exuded confidence that Ramesh Jarkiholi will not leave the party. "I am pretty confident that he will take a decision in favour of the party and government. Ramesh Jarkiholi is our close friend. I believe that neither he nor his team will leave Congress," he told reporters in Bengaluru today. In response to a question about his resignation, Ramesh Jarkiholi had yesterday said, "Will give (resignation)...will not give it through media, will (discuss with) well wishers and give... I won't say (when)...I may even give after one year." Jarkiholi has been hobnobbing with the BJP for some time and had threatened to resign from the party along with some MLAs after the Lok Sabha polls. He had on Sunday visited senior BJP leader S M Krishna in Bengaluru in the presence of BS Yeddyurappa. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. The injured were taken to a hospital in Ranchi, adding four of them suffered minor injuries. CRPF personnel injured in an IED blast triggered by Naxals in Seraikela-Kharsawan district are airlifted for treatment in Ranchi on Tuesday. (Photo: PTI) Ranchi: Fifteen security personnel were injured when Maoists triggered a series of IED blasts near Hurda forests in Jharkhands Seraikela-Kharsawan district in the early hours of Tuesday, a police officer said. The blasts took place around 5 am when a joint team of the CRPFs special jungle warfare unit, CoBRA, and police was carrying out anti-Naxal operations in the forests of Kuchai area in the district, he said. Fifteen security men were injured when the Maoists triggered more than 15 IED blasts. Two of the injured are in a serious condition, inspector general of police (Operation) Ashish Batra said. The injured troops, 13 belonging to the CRPFs CoBRA battalion and the rest to the Jharkhand Armed Police and the district police, were airlifted to Ranchi, another senior officer said. Superintendent of police of Seraikela-Kharsawan, Chandan Kumar Sinha, said the Maoists team, headed by Maharaj Pramanik, was involved in the IED blasts. He said that after the IED blasts a gun fight took place with some Naxalites being shot at, but they managed to flee into the dense forest. The injured were taken to a hospital in Ranchi, adding four of them suffered minor injuries. Seraikela Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Avinash Kumar said all the injured were out of danger. Jitu Patwari and Imarti Devi have come out openly demanding to replace Nath with Scindia as PCC chief. Bhopal: AICC general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia is said to be the front runner in the race for post of president of Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) of Madhya Pradesh with chief minister Kamal Nath dropping hints to relieve himself of the party charge in the wake of dismal show of Congress in Lok Sabha polls in MP. Sources said Mr Scindia was most likely to take over the rein of Congress in MP to revive the sagging morale of party cadre caused by the debacle of Congress in LS in the state. Mr Scindia had to drop his scheduled visit to MP twice in the past one week after he was asked by the party high command to stay put in New Delhi. He was scheduled to visit Guna Lok Sabha constituency after he lost the polls from the seat, a senior Congress leader said on Tuesday. Significantly, CM Nath, who is also MP PCC president, has clarified that he had volunteered earlier to relieve himself of party charge, to focus on governance of the state. Mr Nath had desired to step down from PCC chief post after he was made the CM in December last year, saying that it was very challenging to hold two important charges as chief minister and PCC president. However, he was asked by the party high command to continue in party post in view of the LS elections held barely six months after last years assembly polls in the state. Demand for Mr Scindia, who lost elections in Guna LS seat in the polls, to take over party charge in MP has grown after party posted a miserable show in the recently held parliamentary elections. At least two senior ministers in Kamal Nath cabinet, Jitu Patwari and Imarti Devi have come out openly demanding to replace Mr Nath with Mr Scindia as PCC chief. I am of the view that Mr Scindia is the perfect choice for the party post at this juncture, Mr Patwari told reporters in Bhopal. The RSS joint general secretary in charge of BJP affairs, Dr Krishna Gopal, is also expected to join the meeting. New Delhi: RSS supremo Mohan Bhagwat reached New Delhi on Tuesday and is likely to hold discussions with the BJP top brass on the formation of Narendra Modis new Council of Ministers that will take the oath on May 30. Ahead of the new governments formation, BJP president Amit Shah also met Mr Modi and the two leaders possibly deliberated on the PM-elects new team. Amid growing speculation over who will make it to Mr Modis new team and whether or not Mr Shah would be accommodated in it, the RSS supremos presence in New Delhi furthered the speculation that the BJP top brass would seek the Sangh Parivars approval for its decisions. The RSS, sources said, is in favour of Mr Shah remaining head of the BJP, which under his leadership grew exponentially. This issue could also be discussed with Mr Bhagwat. The RSS joint general secretary in charge of BJP affairs, Dr Krishna Gopal, is also expected to join the meeting. Sangh Parivar affiliates and its cadre play a key role in the BJPs election strategy, with key RSS leaders like Shiv Prakash and Saudan Singh implementing the partys strategies on the ground. Both the RSS leaders are among those seconded to the BJP and are currently members of Mr Shahs team. President Ram Nath Kovind had dissolved the 16th Lok Sabha on Saturday after Mr Modi and his government submitted their resignations to pave the way for the formation of a new government at the Centre after the BJP won 303 of the 542 Lok Sabha seats for which elections were held recently. Mr Modi was appointed Prime Minister after the BJP-led NDA had staked its claim. Speculation is rife that states like Odisha, West Bengal and Telangana will have more representation in Mr Modis new council of ministers compared to his previous team, as the BJP gained significantly in these states. Also, more new faces could be brought into the ministry as both Mr Modi and Mr Shah are known to promote new leadership. While some senior leaders may remain part of the team, speculation is rife that Arun Jaitley could opt out for health reasons. Modi had also referred to Indias Neighbourhood First policy and reiterated that the two countries should fight poverty jointly. Reiterating his vision for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia, the Pakistan PM also said he looked forward to working with Mr Modi to advance these objectives. (Photo: File) New Delhi: India will persist with its policy of not having talks with Pakistan unless it stops cross-border terrorism, and no decision has been taken as yet on any separate bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit that will take place at Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on June 13-14. It is, however, a distinct possibility that the two leaders, besides exchanging pleasantries when they meet at the summit, may also hold an informal meeting on the summits sidelines. As already reported in this newspaper, the Pakistan PM has not been invited for the swearing-in ceremony of Mr Modi for his second term on May 30. India had on Monday invited the leaders of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (Bimstec), that comprises apart from India Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, for the swearing-in. Besides the leaders of these countries, the leaders of Kyrgyzstan (the current SCO chair) and Mauritius (the PM), who was chief guest at this years Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, have also been invited. Pakistan is not a member of Bimstec. During a telephone call from Pakistan PM Imran Khan on Sunday, Mr Modi had raised the issue of terrorism and told him that it was important to create trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism for fostering cooperation for peace, progress and prosperity in our region. Mr Modi had also referred to Indias Neighbourhood First policy and reiterated that the two countries should fight poverty jointly. According to the Pakistan Foreign Office on Sunday, Mr Khan expressed his desire for both countries to work together for betterment of their peoples. Reiterating his vision for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia, the Pakistan PM also said he looked forward to working with Mr Modi to advance these objectives. Mr Modis emphasis on the terror issue is a clear signal that before moving towards any normality in ties, India expects Pakistan to take action against all the terrorists operating from its soil or territory controlled by it. India and Pakistan came to the brink of war in late February this year after the Pulwama terror attack when India launched airstrikes against a Jaish-e-Mohammed camp, after which Pakistan had retaliated, leading to a dogfight between the two Air Forces. It may also be recalled that Mr Modi had on Thursday evening thanked the Pakistan PM on Twitter for his congratulatory message after the BJPs electoral win, with Mr Modi having said that India has always given primacy to peace and development in our region. Mr Modi had then tweeted: I warmly express my gratitude for your good wishes. I have always given primacy to peace and development in our region. On Thursday, the Pakistan PM tweeted: I congratulate Prime Minister Modi on the electoral victory of the BJP and allies. Look forward to working with him for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia. Lalu Prasad Yadav termed Gandhis offer to resign as suicidal and said it would amount to falling into the BJPs trap. New Delhi: The upheaval in the Congress continued for the fifth consecutive day as Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday refused to budge from his stand of resigning as party chief, while allies DMK and RJD joined the chorus of voices urging him not to quit. Sources said there are several suggestions being floated in the Congress to make Mr Gandhi change his mind. One of them relates to creating posts of working presidents who take calls on day-to-day party issues while Mr Gandhi remains the president. The other option is that Mr Gandhi leads the Congress in the Lok Sabha and a new party president is appointed. However, none of these proposals have been approved by the high command. After turning away a number of party leaders a day earlier, Mr Gandhi interacted with some of visitors on Tuesday at his Tughlaq Lane residence, including his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, partys chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala and general secretary K.C. Venugopal. He also met Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot and his deputy Sachin Pilot amid rumblings of discontent in the state after he and Ms Vadra are alleged to have criticised Mr Gehlot over the washout in the desert state. Amid talk of another Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting in the next few days, party leaders continued to urge Mr Gandhi to reconsider his resignation. Delhi Congress chief Sheila Dikshit appealed to Mr Gandhi to withdraw his decision to step down, saying the party has bounced back in the past from challenging circumstances. Shashi Tharoor, who scored an electoral hat-trick by winning from the Thiruvanathapuram Lok Sabha seat, said, While Rahulji has bravely taken full responsibility for the defeat, we all are responsible for what went wrong and we all have a responsibility to ensure the partys revival. Sources said Mr Tharoor and former MP from Guna Jyotiraditya Scindia are among the names doing the rounds as possible successors to Mr Gandhi. Adding to the chorus of voices urging Mr Gandhi not to quit, Congress allies DMK and RJD said that Mr Gandhi should continue in his post as he remains the best and competent person to pull the party out of the crisis after the Lok Sabha poll debacle. Mr Stalin spoke with the Congress top leader over phone and said, You have won the hearts of the people. RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav termed Mr Gandhis offer to resign as suicidal and said it would amount to falling into the BJPs trap. Mr Gandhis offer to step down as Congress president would not only be suicidal for his party but for all the social and political forces battling against the Sangh Parivar, Mr Yadav said in an analysis of the Lok Sabha poll results published in an English daily, the link of which he shared on his Twitter handle. Rahuls offer to resign is suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India, he said in a tweet. Meanwhile, the crisis in Rajasthan Congress after the debacle in the Lok Sabha polls deepened on Tuesday with two more leaders voicing their disappointment over the partys poor performance despite an advisory from the party against making public statements. Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee secretary Sushil Asopa said the state unit chief Sachin Pilot should have been made chief minister instead of Mr Gehlot. Jaipur former mayor Jyoti Khandelwal, who was also the Congress candidate in the Lok Sabha polls, blamed poor booth management for her own defeat and sought a detailed analysis. Earlier, Rajasthan ministers Udai Lal Anjana and Ramesh Meena had demanded introspection and a detailed analysis of the defeat. Agriculture minister Lalchand Kataria on Sunday had announced his resignation from the state Cabinet. AICC general secretary in-charge of Rajasthan, Avinash Pande, has advised party workers against airing their views in public. Congress leaders and workers should refrain from giving public statements. A review meeting on the election results will be held soon and every Congress man will have a chance to express his thoughts, he said. Rajasthan BJP leaders on Tuesday added to the uncertainty surrounding the state Congress by saying that several ruling party MLAs are unhappy and the Gehlot government might fall. I have heard that the BSP MLAs here are unhappy and so are 20-25 Congress MLAs. I dont want to comment further on this, said Gyandev Ahuja, Rajasthan BJP vice-president, according to news agency ANI As the Congress fights to retain its governments in Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka, party sources said the crisis over the party presidents resignation is going to makes the partys job of fire fighting in these states more difficult Meanwhile, the BJP reacted sarcastically to the developments following Mr Gandhis offer to resign from the top party post. Party leader Himanta Biswa Sarma said it will be good for the BJP if Mr Gandhi helms the Congress for five more decades. If Rahul Gandhi continues, there is no hope for the Opposition. From the BJP perspective, we will be happy if Rahul Gandhi continues for next 50 years, said Mr Sarma, who joined the BJP in 2015 after a 14-year stint with the Congress. He, however, cautioned that Mr Gandhis continuation in the post will be bad for democracy. But for all democracy, you need a vibrant Opposition and as long as Rahul Gandhi is the face of the Congress and Opposition, that is not going to happen. Will demolish TMC in 7 phases, says Vijayvargiya on post-poll exodus. BJP leaders Kailash Vijayvargiya and Mukul Roy with West Bengal MLAs and councillors who joined Bharatiya Janata Party in New Delhi on Tuesday. (Photo: PTI) New Delhi: The saffron surges impact in West Bengal was felt on Tuesday when two ruling TMC MLAs and over 50 municipal councillors, most of them from the Mamata Banerjee-led party, switched over to the BJP which bagged 18 out of total 42 parliamentary seats in the just-concluded Lok Sabha polls in the state. One CPI(M) MLA also joined the BJP. Their induction marks a huge boost for the party that aspires to wrest power from Ms Banjerjee in the next Assembly election in 2021. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJPs tally jumped from two in 2014 to 18 and its vote share also significantly increased in the bitter, violence-riddled battle with the ruling TMC. Taunting Ms Banerjee on its plan to demolish her supremacy in the state, BJP general secretary and in-charge for the state affairs, Kailash Vijaywargiya, and senior leader Mukul Roy told reporters that more MLAs from the TMC will join the saffron party in the coming days. Like the elections were held in seven phases in West Bengal, joining the BJP would also happen in seven phases. Today was just the first phase, said Mr Vijaywargiya. He said, We want her government to continue till 2021, but if it falls due to her doings, then we cannot help it. Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had attacked Ms Banerjee, saying that once lotus blooms everywhere on May 23 her party leaders will leave her. He had also claimed that 40 TMC MLAs were in touch with him. Ms Banerjee had retorted by accusing Mr Modi of horse-trading and dared him to find even one deserter from her party. Taking a jibe at the Prime Minister, TMCs Derek O Brien had called him an expiry babu and asserted that not even one councillor would join the BJP. The TMC had also complained to the Election Commission. However, despite an acerbic political campaign and war of words between Mr Modi and Ms Banerjee, the West Bengal chief minister announced on Tuesday that she will attend the swearing-in ceremony of the Prime Minister on May 30, for which she has been invited. The three Bengal MLAs who joined the BJP on Tuesday included party leader Mukul Roys son Subhrangshu Roy. Subhrangshu Roy was expelled by the TMC on Monday for alleged anti-party activities. On Tuesday, TMC MLA Tusharkanti Bhattacharya and CPI(M)s Debendra Nath Roy also joined the BJP. Once a close confidante of Ms Banerjee, Mukul Roy joined the BJP in 2017 after falling out with her. Since his joining the BJP, almost half-a-dozen TMC heavyweights have joined the saffron fold. After the induction of TMC leaders into the BJP on Tuesday, Mukul Roy claimed that Ms Banerjee will stick to her chair at all costs till people decide to remove her and asserted that in 2021 Assembly polls her party will have to struggle to emerge to get the status of the Opposition party. The TMC had won 211 of the Assemblys 294 seats in 2016. The BJP had won only three seats, but since then it has emerged as the principal challenger to the TMC. With over 50 councillors joining the BJP, the party now has a majority in at least three municipal councils Kanchrapara, Halishahar and Naihati. Besides Mr Goel, Union ministers Prakash Javadekar, partys vice president Vinay Sahastrabudhe, and national secretary RP Singh were also present. New Delhi: Hundreds of people sent wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi by writing their messages on the wall of greetings put up outside Rajiv Chowk Metro station in Connaught Place on Tuesday. Sharing the rationale of putting up the wall of greetings, Union minister and Lok Abhiyan president Vijay Goel said that a large number of people wished to express their thoughts to Mr Modi after the grand comeback of the NDA government in the Lok Sabha polls and in view of the swearing-in ceremony of the new government. Besides Mr Goel, Union ministers Prakash Javadekar, partys vice president Vinay Sahastrabudhe, and national secretary RP Singh were also present. Mr Goel said that mere sloganeering does not impress the people; it is the development and the sincerity to work which makes a difference. That is how Modi ji won the hearts of the people of Indiathrough his sincerity and development, he said. Mr Goel added that chief minister Arvind Kejriwal still wants to cajole the public with his slogans. The people of Delhi have made it very clear that they are with Modi ji. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has been relegated to the third position because it failed to fulfil its promises. Delhi has become a slum. It is the worlds most polluted city and not a single hospital, college, or school has been opened. Had BJP been in power, it would have carried out a series of development works in cooperation with the Centre, he said. The Union minister said, Mr Kejriwal had been alleging that Modi ji wants to kill him. But today when he has been rejected by the people of Delhi, he speaks about working with Modi ji. This is a sham. Mr Sahastrabudhe said that while Mr Modi was receiving wishes from all around the world through social media, this wall of greetings was a small effort to let the common public send their thoughts and messages to him. The job should go to someone like Mr Chidambaram, who can draft what the partys approach should be to the new political situation in the country. After the defeat on May 23, there were many outside supporters of the Congress Party who demanded that its president Rahul Gandhi should resign, and who felt that the first family of the party had become a clear liability. Mr Gandhi offered to resign immediately and he is reported to have said that the new president should be from outside the family. And it was also reported that he expressed displeasure that some of the senior leaders, including former finance minister Palaniappan Chidambaram had demanded tickets for their sons. There is no way of checking out what had really transpired at the Congress Working Committee meeting on May 25. It is hoped that the minutes of the meeting have been made and they will appear sooner than later in the series of party documents. The first thing that the party can do is to keep the record of the internal rumblings which will enable future historians of the party to make a fair assessment. There should not be much debate whether Mr Gandhi should quit. He should, and without much ado. Apparently, he has been prevailed upon to stay on. The denouement was predictable because the party has in the last 40 years and more lost its nerve, and it feels it cannot survive as a national party without the Nehru-Gandhis at the helm. The argument has enough merit in it despite the sycophantic overtones. The party, however, cannot leave all the hard decisions to the party president, who is a member of the first family. One of the hard decisions is to elect a president who is not from the family, if he or she is a non-family person who is not actually a meek family retainer. The job should go to someone like Mr Chidambaram, who can draft what the partys approach should be to the new political situation in the country. Someone like Digvijaya Singh, with his stereotypical notions about secularism and socialism, is not the man of the hour, but he should be given the important assignment of getting in touch with the partys cadres across the country. The cadres need to be galvanised, and Mr Singh has a certain flair of working with the cadres. It needs to be ensured that neither Mr Chidambaram nor Mr Singh should depend on the endorsement of the first family for what they do. It is not an easy task because of the factional feuds inside the party and how these factions use the family connection to checkmate their opponents. We know that Mr Singh has famously or infamously described Mr Chidambaram as intellectually arrogant, and he had to apologise for it at the insistence of then party president Sonia Gandhi. Mr Chidambaram could provide the ideas framework which the party needs, though he is not the man to reach out to the party cadres, and Mr Singh could reach out to party cadres though he did not cover himself with glory in Goa after the Assembly elections in 2017 when the Congress should have formed the government. Mr Chidambaram would be unflinching in articulating ideas, which is necessary for the party. Of course, the party would have to debate and ratify the new ideas. But they need to be articulated in an uncompromising fashion. Populism will not save the day for the Congress. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has bolted with the horse of populism. It is time for the Congress to come up with some solid ideas about what needs to be done in the country on the economic and political fronts. It should not fall back on the old Congress vice of compromise. The Congress has got to hold on to some core ideas uncompromisingly. And the core ideas of yore like secularism and socialism do not work any longer because the country has changed. The party needs tried-and-tested veterans to steady the rocking boat. Societies and polities need ideas to cope with the future. The transition would require Mr Gandhi not only to resign but also not to withdraw his resignation. And he should remain a part of the CWC and follow the lead of whoever replaces him. Second, Mr Gandhi can facilitate the change by not listening to the factions. There would be much internal turbulence because of this, but it will help the party to revive its spirits and shake off its decades-old passivity. The Congress can never be a hidebound ideological party with cadres of the faithful in its ranks like the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Communist parties. It should be able to respond to the challenges of the polity at any moment. It requires the old-fashioned ear-to-the-ground sensibility and sensitivity. And its programmes should be a pragmatic response to the demands of the moment. The Indian polity today needs a constitutional liberal party, which adheres to the system of due process and which at the same time reckons with the winds of change. The BJP is pushing the country towards a Machiavellian state of amoral power, and its core ideology of Hindutva does not provide it with a moral compass. The Congress should return morality -- and it might seem the most atrocious suggestion ever for a party that has become cynical and immoral -- to the polity by adhering to the laws of the land while upholding individual liberties. The majoritarian impulse represented by the BJP needs to be countered, and it falls to the Congress to do it. Of course, this does not mean that the Congress will do what is required of it at this moment of history. Constitutionalism and liberalism never attracted the party. It loved the socialist adventurism even as the BJP loves the nationalist adventurism. As the BJP establishes itself as a populist right-wing party, the Congress should be the foil to the BJP by upholding the fair principles of constitutionalism and liberalism. This is antithetical to the Nehruvian legacy of the party. Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi pushed the party towards populism and socialism of the benign kind. India has changed. The two iconic figures are antiquated. Mr Modi has appropriated Mahatma Gandhi and he could even do the same with Nehru. The Congress should do liberalism, and not populism, to be useful to the country. They may not represent the Islam that moderate Muslims know and follow, but their actions are inspired by their own version or interpretation of it. The Easter bombings in Sri Lanka once again turned a spotlight on the challenge of global jihad, terrorism and Islamophobia. Muslim scholars and community leaders from across the world have condemned the attack, dissociated themselves from the perpetrators and defended Islam as a religion of peace. Many Muslims are constantly feeling like they need to apologise. Still, they continue to face a backlash and stereotyping of their community. The fear of reprisals combined with growing Islamophobia compels Muslims to insist that these acts have nothing to do with their faith. This urge to separate religion from the violence committed in its name is well intentioned and understandable, yet counterproductive. It is true that these terrorists do not represent the overwhelming majority of Muslims, who oppose terrorist groups like the militant Islamic State (ISIS), the Taliban, and Al Qaeda. However, it does not necessarily mean that they have nothing to do with religion. They may not represent the Islam that moderate Muslims know and follow, but their actions are inspired by their own version or interpretation of it. Here, it is worth emphasising that, as a Muslim, I strongly believe that the Muslim belief is no more violent than those of other religions. Neither is religion the only cause of such violence. Instead, violent extremism is a complex phenomenon with multiple driving factors including injustice, identity crisis, extremist ideologies, and socioeconomic reasons. Their salience varies across time and space. There is no clear profile or single causal pathway that can define the process of radicalisation. There is also no denying that colonialism, Western military interventions in Muslim countries and support to authoritarian Muslim rulers have played a role in the rise of Islamic extremists and militants in the Muslim world. To summarise, it is often a combination of politics and extremist interpretations of Islam that produces the vitriolic narrative and rampage that most Muslim countries face today. The problem is that while Muslims almost always talk about the politics that creates terrorism, and rightly so, they are reluctant to discuss the role of radicalised interpretations in inspiring terrorist violence. In Muslim-majority countries, a small segment of Muslims do recognise the challenge posed by radical interpretations of religion and disputes a literalist reading advocated by fundamentalists. Quranic verses, they argue, are often misinterpreted and quoted out of context. There are, however, two points which must be considered in the debate. First, these debates are restricted to the drawing rooms and private gatherings of a tiny liberal, secular and left-leaning class that is often insulated from the rest of society which is generally conservative. Publicly, most Muslims are reluctant to openly engage in a debate regarding religion. Those who do so often pay a huge price. Second, the lack of an authoritative hierarchy in doctrinal interpretation means that any Muslim can interpret religion the way he or she likes. While making Islam more egalitarian and democratic, this also makes it easier for extremists to promulgate their literal interpretations despite opposition by a large majority of Muslim clerics and scholars. Moderate Muslims cannot be blamed for not engaging in open public debate because most Muslim countries lack the environment required for discussing sensitive issues. The countries where there is space for critical debates are the relatively advanced democracies of the developed world. However, in almost all such countries, Muslims are also a minority and often the victims of hatred and prejudice inspired by Islamophobia. Consequently, conscious of their minority status, moderate and liberal Muslims in these countries hold back their views on religion for fear of being seen as abettors of Islamophobia. The rise of right-wing nationalism in Europe and America has only reinforced their concerns. Diaspora Muslims fear that even pointing out that militancy might have something to do with a certain interpretation will feed into Islamophobia. The nuance about particular interpretations, the argument goes on, would gradually disappear in the public debate and Islam as a religion and Muslims as a group would be criticised. These are legitimate concerns and it is, therefore, not surprising that diaspora Muslims scholars and intellectuals are at the forefront of the IS-has-nothing-to-do-with-religion school of thought. The real challenge for Muslims is to be able to have these difficult conversations in a way that does not lead to more Islamophobia or buttress the Wests Orientalist and stereotypical view of Islam and the Muslim world. Moderate Muslims must understand, deconstruct and delegitimise the extremists version of Islam rather than denying the existence of their interpretation. By denying any link between faith and the violence carried out in its name, Muslims foreclose all public debate on different interpretations and help extremist Muslims get away with their context-less versions. This denial has given right-wing nationalists in Europe and America an opportunity to cash in on the growing public unease about Muslims and their faith. They need to realise that the extremists interpretation can only be countered and discredited publicly if its existence is first admitted and then actively contested and challenged. This may sound like a daunting task, but it is the only way moderate Muslims can ensure that their vision of a more tolerant and inclusive Islam prevails. By arrangement with Dawn A fresh start is urgently needed in Jammu and Kashmir, and with Pakistan and Afghanistan. A re-elected government having an overwhelming mandate with national security at the core of its campaign must reflect back on its success and failure in security policy, combine that with the emerging strategic environment and work out its priorities for the break in period of its next incumbency. NDA-2s experience and the current international security situation would demand priority for Pakistan and Afghanistan as the two core domains for Indias security policy, both in the external sphere. Indirectly connected to both is Jammu and Kashmir, which is essentially internal. The combined issues will take up much of the time of the new government, for which the approach needs to be right after the intricacies of the linkages are fully appreciated. It in no way discounts that the course of Sino-Indian relations too will occupy very high priority, but this isnt about competing priorities alone; it is more about the immediacy of deliberations. Despite US President Donald Trumps serious attempts to pull out of Afghanistan and not fight other peoples wars there has been little progress, and Pakistans significance has once again been enhanced as facilitator of any potential US agreement with the Taliban. The situation in the Middle East in relation to the escalating tension between the US and Iran will prevent any further focus on this for some time. Currently, the prime issues relate to the US focus on ceasefire, direct Taliban talks with the Afghan government and future status of a Taliban-led Afghanistan not hosting any terror groups. This does not take into account some other intractable issues, like the future status of the large Afghan National Army and police, which have borne heavy casualties. The prospects of peace appear slim in the near term but prop up Pakistans strategic status. India has invested much in Afghanistan and reaped less in comparison. Pakistan of course would be the happiest to see a dilution of Indias relevance in Afghanistan, and will work towards that. The new Indian government has to review its relative success in Afghanistan and reinvent Indias obvious relevance. Should it change tack and have some parleys with the Taliban at the cost of its strong ties with the Afghan national government? These are difficult decisions, but the fact that US special adviser Zalmay Khalilzad has visited New Delhi twice this year and the joint US-India decision to retain Afghan gains over the last 18 years, point to India remaining embedded with its current policy and not risking something it may not be able to handle in the unpredictable scenario unfolding. Pakistan is not sure whether it should be happy with the return of Prime Minister Narendra Modi or otherwise. While Imran Khan may have expressed some positive sentiments about the possibility of a resolution of J&K and betterment of relationship under Mr Modi, the intellectual discourse coming out of Islamabad points to the dangers of a politically stronger and much more confident Prime Minister Modi. Sherry Rehman, the president of Pakistans Jinnah Institute, wrote on its website: Both sides would profit from sitting down, even informally, to discuss ways to prevent a repeat of the February crisis. From thereon, the way forward remains a joint commission that can institutionalise talks on resolving key issues like Kashmir, terrorism, trade, climate change and visa regimes. Mr Modis first tenure as Prime Minister did look towards such a policy. In fact, there can be no denying that he bided his time for over a year and then took the initiative in mid-2015. The response from Pakistan was in the form of Pathankot, Uri and Nagrota. The NDA-2 government made adequate efforts to communicate that talks were always possible but not with the backdrop of continuing terrorist attacks. Pakistan then attempted to alter the narrative by claiming that internal security issues involving Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other so-called unfriendly terror groups were under the sponsorship of India. Has anything changed as far as Pakistan is concerned? On one hand, there is talk of appointing a national security adviser so that equivalence is available to engage with Indias NSA Ajit Doval, whose guts Pakistan detests. At the same time, just as counting day progressed in India, Pakistan tested its 1,500-km Shaheen-II SSBM and to drive it in, termed the firing training; projecting that the missile was well past the testing stage and a part of Pakistans arsenal to intimidate India. Pakistan continues to remain a functioning paradox among nations, for ever on financial bailout packages but unprepared to change the circumstances which have brought about misery to its people. Currently under international scrutiny and pressure, it is perhaps willing to walk a different talk but unwilling to rein its marauders in or exert control over them. Some noise in this regard has been heard but insufficiently convincing that this isnt anything more than the tactical ruse implemented with the Lashkar-e-Tayyaba in the past. NDA-3 need not be tempted by any of this since there is insufficient demonstration of sincerity. It is also agreed that a face-saving window is what Pakistan may need at this juncture without abjuring from sponsoring the proxy war in J&K. We yet have time before the J&K Assembly elections. Pakistan will have ample time to demonstrate how far it is willing to go in the pursuit of peace. Although the absence of violence is never considered peace, if J&K is free of violence and in a given acceptable timeframe the political and security establishments have enough evidence of a Pakistani pullback, perhaps NDA-3 could review its next steps. What should NDA-3 do with J&K? There are too many things which have become old wine; a review and a thorough one at that is called for. No dilution of security operations is advocated at this stage. However, tweak the concept and nothing else, and let the situation pan out. There is a comparative lull; infiltration attempts are few and far, the Line of Control is not on fire, street turbulence is low, rhetoric too is limited and finances seem to be running out; public stamina seems to have also taken its toll after three years of incessant violence. If this assessment is correct, the government must work towards elongating this window and do nothing which will shorten it. This is not the time to trigger any sentiments but use it to build some modicum of political consensus, political differences and aims notwithstanding. At the least an effort should be made to start building more trust between J&Ks regions; their division is not a solution. Prime Minister Modi is himself an advocate of better communication with the people; he has adequately demonstrated this with his recent acceptance speech. Its time to let fears and suspicions rest and effective communication take its place. With all the above in place, let there be no doubt that preparations for the worst be in place. After all, another Pulwama could well be in the making. It would be a folly to imagine that permanent peace has returned to J&K. Far from it. There are miles to go before anything like that can even be imagined. Googles other European data centers are located in the Netherlands, Ireland and Belgium. Google, which is owned by Alphabet Inc., already has a data center in Hamina, where it invested 800 million euros to convert an old paper mill. Paper firm Stora Enso sold the site, which is close to the Russian border, to Google in 2009. Google said on Monday it planned to invest about 600 million euros ($672 million) in a new data center in Hamina, Finland. Google, which is owned by Alphabet Inc., already has a data center in Hamina, where it invested 800 million euros to convert an old paper mill. Paper firm Stora Enso sold the site, which is close to the Russian border, to Google in 2009. Google said the existing Hamina facility was one of its most advanced and efficient data centers. Its cooling system uses seawater from the Gulf of Finland to reduce energy use. Googles other European data centers are located in the Netherlands, Ireland and Belgium. The demand for Google services is growing daily and we are building our data center infrastructure to match this demand, Googles Finland country head Antti Jarvinen said in a statement. In Tehran, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Iran was not seeking nuclear weapons, which its supreme leader had banned in an edict. Tokyo: US President Donald Trump said on Monday a deal with Iran on its nuclear programme was possible, crediting economic sanctions for curbing activities Washington has said are behind a spate of attacks in the Middle East. "I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal, and I think that's very smart of them, and I think that's a possibility to happen," Trump said during a news conference with Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo. "It has a chance to be a great country with the same leadership," Trump said. "We aren't looking for regime change - I just want to make that clear. We are looking for no nuclear weapons." In Tehran, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Iran was not seeking nuclear weapons, which its supreme leader had banned in an edict, adding on Twitter that US policies were hurting the Iranian people and causing regional tensions. President Donald Trump says Iran wants to make a deal. Trump, in a news conference in Tokyo on Monday, sais Iran's economy has taken a major downturn since he pulled the U.S. out of the Iran nuclear deal. "Actions-not words-will show whether or not that's @realDonaldTrump's intent," Zarif said. President Hassan Rouhani said in October the United States was seeking "regime change" in Iran, adding that the current US administration was the most hostile that the Islamic Republic had faced in its four decades. Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States after this month's attack on oil tankers in the Gulf region. Washington, a firm backer of Tehran's regional rival Saudi Arabia, has blamed the attacks on Iran, which denies the accusations. The United States has deployed a carrier strike group and bombers to the and announced plans to deploy 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict. Trump's national security adviser John Bolton said on Saturday that the United States had "deep and serious" intelligence on threats posed by Iran, without providing details. Trump, on a four-day visit to Japan, welcomed Abe's help in dealing with Iran after broadcaster NHK said Japan's leader is considering a trip to Tehran as early as mid-June. Iran said a visit was unlikely in the near future. "I know for a fact that the prime minister is very close with the leadership of Iran, and we'll see what happens," Trump said. At his joint news conference with Trump, Abe said Japan would do what it can on the Iran issue. Trump last year withdrew the United States from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, and is ratcheting up sanctions seeking to end Iran's international sales of crude oil and strangle its economy. Japan was a major buyer of Iranian oil for decades before US sanctions which Trump said were taking effect. "They were fighting in many locations," he said of Iran. "Now they are pulling back because they have serious economic problems." Bolton, who has spearheaded an increasingly hawkish US policy on Iran, described recent bomb attacks on tankers off the United Arab Emirates and a pipeline pumping station in Saudi Arabia, as well as a rocket attack in Baghdad's Green Zone, as "manifestations of concern" about Iran. Iran has distanced itself from the bombings and on Sunday, Zarif said his country will defend itself against any military or economic aggression. Marcus Martin, 24, pleaded guilty to three counts of rape and one count of deprivation of liberty in October last year. He once gouged her eyes and on another occasion chocked her with her handbag. (Representational Photo) Sydney: An Australian man who kidnapped and raped a British backpacker during a harrowing road trip hostage ordeal was sentenced Tuesday to 10 years in prison, Australia's national broadcaster said. Marcus Martin, 24, pleaded guilty to three counts of rape and one count of deprivation of liberty in October last year. He met the then 22-year-old victim at a party in Australia's northeast in January 2017 before forcing her on a 1,600-kilometre road trip in which she was repeatedly beaten and raped. The court heard the pair had moved from hotel room to hotel room, with Martin often forcing her to drive at gunpoint after destroying her passport, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation said. He once gouged her eyes and on another occasion chocked her with her handbag. "He threw away her birth control pills so she would never leave him because she would have his child," prosecutor Nathan Crane was quoted as saying by the ABC. Police rescued the women in March 2018 after petrol station attendees raised the alarm when she drove off without paying for fuel. Authorities found Martin hiding in the back of the vehicle. Australia is a popular destination for young backpackers, with around 600,000 touring the country every year. They occasionally run into trouble, most famously in the early 1990s when seven were murdered by Ivan Milat in a series of killings that terrified Australia. Milat is serving consecutive life sentences after the remains of two Britons, three Germans and two Australians were found buried in a forest southwest of Sydney. Ogdens Own Distillery Releases Five Husbands Vodka for Pride Nude Dudes Adorn 'Five Husbands' Vodka, In Honor of Pride Month Whats the best way to celebrate Pride month? According to a controversial Utah distillery, you release a new vodka with five naked guys on the label. RELATED: 10 Best Vodkas You Can Buy If you have an aversion to nudity or risque imagery you might not want to read any further. Utah-based Ogdens Own Distillery recently announced a new vodka in honor of the LGBTQ community. The new beverage, Five Husbands, features five chiseled men who are entirely in the buff on a stark white label, with each model holding a large cock over themselves in a fun, yet charming manner. This isnt the first time the distillery made waves with its drinks. Ogden's Own Distillery made headlines earlier in the decade when they promoted their groundbreaking and daring Five Wives vodka, a product which critics claimed had a heavy connection to polygamy. The state of Idaho went so far as to ban Five Wives vodka from store shelves, according to TODAY, despite Utah having a deeper historical relationship to the practice due to a heavy concentration of Mormons. Distillery CEO Steve Conlin made his enthusiasm for the product and the philosophy it represents very clear in a statement to NBC News regarding the launch of Five Husbands vodka. Believe it or not, under the surface, Utah is a pretty fun and wild place, he said. [It is] really progressive once you get past the religion. Conlin continued with his reasoning for wanting to sponsor the Utah Pride Festival, pointing to the magic of acceptance and personal freedom. Theres something really magical about seeing people being able to express themselves and be themselves. On the other side of the discussion, pride festival organizers seem equally pleased to have a major local sponsor approach them for a partnership. Liz Pitts of the Utah Pride Center told interviewers with Q Salt Lake that the gesture was very much appreciated. We are a festival that celebrates our local community, she said. and we are excited when homegrown companies want to be part of it in such a fun way. RELATED: Why You Should Never Put Vodka in the Freezer With a label that may appeal to members of both sexes and a positive attitude to boot those looking to down a few shots of Five Husbands will have to the Beehive State. Youll have to be quick thoughonly 3,000 bottles it are slated for production. Some of the allocation will be available to patrons of Utahs Pride festival, while the remainder will likely hit local liquor store shelves. Hopefully, Five Husbands vodka is as robust and muscular as the naked bodies on the bottle. You Might Also Dig: The Hunter Creek Trail is closed between Lone Pine Road and the Lani White Trail following a bear biting a hiker Monday morning. The victim escaped without serious injury. The Lake Christine Fire perimeter is shown here, with areas of increased flooding and debris flow risk shown in red and dark red. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. The licenses, along with the Australian credit license (ACL), which Gadens also advised on a year ago, makes Judo Bank Australias first challenger business bank committed to support Australian businesses, Gadens said. The licenses also allow the company to fund loans to SMEs using a mix of wholesale funding and deposits. This creates an alternative source of business funding for SMEs, Gadens said. The top firm said that it also advised Judo Bank on key aspects to the establishment of the business bank from scratch, including designing its tailored loan documents, deposit products, and service provider contracts. The national firm also continues to advise the bank on general commercial, employment, and IT matters. Australian businesses and investors particularly medium to large importers, exporters, institutional investors and businesses with operations overseas have been affected by the distortion of the FX market by these banks. Such cartel behaviour cheats Australian businesses in circumstances where they may already have been vulnerable to currency fluctuations, said Kimi Nishimura, principal lawyer. These cases are hard and complex to bring, but that doesnt mean that wrongdoing on a mass scale such as this should go unchecked. As the only Australian law firm to have run and won cartel class actions, we are well placed to run this case. The case is represented by lead plaintiff J. Wisbey and Associates, which imported dental and medical equipment during the period. The case is on behalf of forex customers that bought or sold currency during the period and that have transactions valued at more than $500,000. Australian businesses shouldnt pay more because the banks got together to work out how to make more profits for themselves. Its hard to take individual action against this kind of price rigging because the price increases are small, but when repeated over thousands of transactions they make a real difference to currency prices, managing director Greg Wisbey said. The action comes after Maurice Blackburn filed its case against Uber. The fourth generation (W177) retails at 26,555 in Germany and 22,195 over in the UK, and thats surprising if you remember the Mercedes-Benz is plusher than the BMW. At the other end of the scale, the M135i xDrive with an 8-speed automatic transmission is 48,900 and 36,430. In the name of all things holy, what was BMW thinking?Even though the F40 is cheaper to manufacture than the F20 thanks to the switch from rear- to front-wheel-drive, pricing went up by 100. Whats more, the entry-level 116i is nowhere to be seen. The inline-six turbo in the M140i has been discontinued as well, and thats disappointing in this day and age. From the Ultimate Driving Machine promise of yesterday, BMW couldnt resist the temptation to make the 1 Series Hatchback less exciting on every quantifiable and emotional level.Even the exterior design of the F40 is similar to the 2 Series Active Tourer instead of a cab-rearward design, trading sharp styling for the looks of a multi-purpose vehicle. The lowliest 1 Series features a 1.5-liter turbo with three cylinders, packing 140 PS (148 horsepower) and 162 pound-feet (220 Nm) for a zero-to-100 in 8.5 seconds. Top speed? Make that 212 kph (132 mph), thank you!In the case of the 116i, the 8-speed automatic isnt available as an optional extra. Instead, the entry-level model is treated to the seven-speed DCT from the MINI . So far, the feedback from customers has been positive despite the fact the British automaker is trying to make ends meet in terms of sales.Turbo diesel options include the 116d, 118d, and 120d with xDrive, and outputs range from 116 PS (114 horsepower) for the 1.5 to 190 PS (187 horsepower) for the 2.0-liter engine. For some reason or another, the range-topping diesel comes with the ZF 8HP as standard instead of a six-speed manual.On that note, what do you think about the F40 in contrast to the sporting legacy of the previous generation In a statement released on Tuesday (May 28), the French company says a board meeting was held to discuss the Italian-American proposition, but no definitive conclusion was reached. As a result, the deal proposition will require further scrutiny," says the carmaker,After careful review of the terms of FCAs friendly proposal, the Board of Directors decided to study with interest the opportunity of such a business combination, comforting Groupe Renaults manufacturing footprint and creating additional value for the Alliance, the carmaker's official statement reads.An answer to the proposal will be provided by Renault at an yet unspecified date, and only after further discussions with FCA representatives will take place to shed more light on this major move.As per the proposal made by FCA on Monday, the group wants to merge with Renault under a single new Dutch parent company, equally controlled by the two former entities.Its unclear how Nissan and Mitsubishi, Renaults Alliance partners, see this proposition. To sweeten the deal, FCA threw in a seat on the board of the new company for a Nissan representative, but said nothing about Mitsubishi.In FCAs view, a merger would generate annual run-rate synergies in excess of 5 billion and open markets previously inaccessible for both.No plants are to be closed, and the collaboration would allow profitable use of common global vehicle platforms, architectures, powertrains and technologies.Should Renault say yes to the deal, the resulting behemoth would become the third largest car manufacturer in the world, with combined sales of around 8.7 million vehicles annually. The image you see above is part of a video (available below) captured by astronomer Marco Langbroek in Leiden, the Netherlands, just hours after the satellites were deployed, on May 24 at 22:55 UT.To get the images, Langbroek had to make some calculations, as there was no orbital data to help him determine where to point the camera. Using some calculations ( available here ), the astronomer was able to get a general idea of where the satellites will be.So he grabbed his camera and waited, only to be rewarded (and us) with a sight we rarely get to see: a shining train of lights movingh in the sky over Europe.It started with two faint, flashing objects moving into the field of view, Langbroek said on his blog . Then, a few tens of seconds later, my jaw dropped as the "train" entered the field of view. I could not help shouting "OAAAAAH!!!!"Langbroek was apparently not the only one to see the lights in the sky, and allegedly Starlink caused a number of UFO sightings being reported.After these images surfaced, astronomers started expressing concerns that the shine of the satellites solar arrays may cause issues for the telescopes here on Earth.Elon Musk replied to those concerns by saying he has directed SpaceX to find ways to eliminate any material effect on discoveries in astronomy.Back to Langbroek, if you plan to go Starlink hunting yourself, know that the astronomer used for his observation a WATEC 902H low-light-level surveillance camera, equipped with a Canon FD 1.8/50 mm lens.He says that in the coming days the train of satellites will pass overhead 2 or three times each night, before separating as they maneuver into their assigned positions. So if you plan to get a glimpse of them, youd better get at it. 2020 Democratic hopeful Joe Biden released a scathing comment on Tuesday after President Trump concurred with North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un's critical assessment of the former vice president. "The President's comments are beneath the dignity of the office. To be on foreign soil, on Memorial Day, and to side repeatedly with a murderous dictator against a fellow American and former Vice President speaks for itself. And it's part of a pattern of embracing autocrats at the expense of our institutions - whether taking Putin's word at face value in Helsinki or exchanging 'love letters' with Kim Jung Un." Spokesperson for Joe Biden's presidential campaign Context: On Sunday, Trump tweeted from Japan: "North Korea fired off some small weapons, which disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me. I have confidence that Chairman Kim will keep his promise to me, & also smiled when he called Swampman Joe Biden a low IQ individual, & worse. Perhaps thats sending me a signal?" A tense situation is unfolding in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where officials are hoping that 70-year-old levees will withstand an unprecedented, prolonged test to keep back the swollen Arkansas River, which has risen to an all-time record high after weeks of heavy rain. Why it matters: The flooding that has gripped the nation's heartland will eventually affect the price of food, as farmers cope with fields that have turned into lakes at a time of year when staple crops such as corn and wheat should be planted already. In addition, the damage from the floods, which started in the Upper Midwest earlier this year and now stretch all the way down the Mississippi River, likely exceeds $1 billion in individual states alone, with a far higher aggregate cost. Details: Massive thunderstorms have dumped torrential rains in Oklahoma, Kansas and surrounding states during the past two weeks, sending the Arkansas River in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma to its highest level on record. In Fort Smith, Arkansas, on Tuesday morning, the river rose to 2 feet above its previous all-time high. The forecast crest is not predicted to occur until Wednesday evening, after the river rises another 2 feet. All-time record crests are predicted from Fort Smith southward to near Little Rock. In Tulsa, additional rain on Tuesday could force officials to release more water from the Keystone Dam or risk water levels overtopping the floodgates, which could be catastrophic, the Tulsa World reports. Tulsa's levees are being tested in ways that may become more common with global warming, as heavy rains and floods increase in frequency. "This is the culmination of a flood that is now in its fourth week," David Williams, with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Tulsa, told the newspaper. In Oklahoma, flooding cut off all roadways into the town of Braggs in Muskogee County Tuesday turning the town into an island, the New York Times noted. The impact: Floodwaters are slowly making their way down the Mississippi River toward Louisiana, rattling nerves and setting records. Officials announced Monday they will open the Morganza Spillway in Louisiana for only the third time since it was built in 1954. The river is expected to crest there by June 2 at the second-highest level on record. "The current flood fight is historic and unprecedented," the Corps said in a statement, noting that this year's Mississippi River floods are likely to become the longest such event on record, beating a 1973 flood that lasted 225 days. The background: "In the Southern Plains, Oklahoma has far and away been the poster child for this event," Victor Murphy of the National Weather Service tells Axios. "By the time May 31st rolls around, we fully expect May of 2019 to surpass October 1941 as the 2nd wettest month on record for Oklahoma, behind only May 2015." According to Murphy, many counties along and north of I-44 from Oklahoma to the Missouri border have seen at least 16 to 19 inches of rain for the month, with more to come. "These 30 day values are on the order of 1-in-50-year to 1-in-100-year events," he says. A tweet previously embedded here has been deleted or was tweeted from an account that has been suspended or deleted. Between the lines: The ongoing flooding is consistent with scientific studies showing the increasingly apparent effects of human-caused climate change. A warmer atmosphere holds more water vapor on average, which contributes to an uptick in heavy precipitation events. Such trends have been seen in much of the U.S. in recent decades. In addition, other research shows ties between persistent, highly amplified weather patterns such as this one and long-term climate change. Go deeper: President Trump's senior adviser Jared Kushner, the head of the White House's Israeli-Palestinian peace team, traveled to the Middle East on Monday night on a visit to Morocco, Jordan and Israel, a senior White House official told me. Why it matters: Kushner will arrive in Israel on Thursday, meeting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the tail end of a coalition crisis that could lead to new elections. Netanyahu's deadline for forming a new government is set to expire on Wednesday night, and new elections in Israel could be yet another hurdle for the Trump administration's peace plan. Trump jumped into the coalition crisis over the weekend when he tweeted in support of Netanyahu's efforts to form a new coalition. An hour later Netanyahu used Trump's tweet to publicly slam his political opponent former Minister of Defense Avigdor Lieberman, putting public pressure on him to join the coalition. Details: Kushner arrived in Rabat Tuesday morning and will meet with senior Moroccan officials. On Wednesday, Kushner will arrive in Amman and meet Jordan's King Abdullah to discuss Jordanian participation in the U.S.-led Bahrain conference next month, which will launch the economic part of the White House peace plan. The Palestinians are pushing the Jordanians to boycott the conference. Jason Greenblatt, the White House's special envoy for Middle East peace, and Brian Hook, the State Department's Iran envoy, are also joining Kushner on the trip. Go deeper: The only Palestinian RSVP to the White House's Bahrain conference so far John Bercow, speaker of the U.K. House of Commons, said today that while there had been no formal request for President Trump to address Parliament, "nothing has happened since" 2017 when Bercow cited "racism and sexism" in opposing such an invitation to change his mind. Why it matters: Trump will visit the U.K. next week. Bercow noted that while previous presidents had been invited to address Parliament, there was no "unbreakable norm." He said former President Obama, for example, had been "comparably popular" in Europe and the U.K., and a historic figure as America's first black president. Asked by Axios if he would have rejected a formal request from Buckingham Palace to invite Trump, Bercow said to answer would be "engaging in the odd hypothetical." But, but, but: Speaking at the Brookings Institution in Washington, Bercow conceded that there was a "powerful argument" that it was an error to invite Chinese President Xi Jinping to address Parliament in 2015. He said he had been "persuaded" that it would help an important relationship. Bercow also said it was "probably not right" to allow the emir of Kuwait to address Parliament, in 2012. The speaker also addressed Brexit, an issue that has fractured British politics like nothing else. He said that while the default position remained that the U.K. would leave the EU without an exit deal in October, "Parliament ... will have a lot to say on this matter" before that happens. Between the lines: There's been speculation that if May is replaced by a hardline Brexiteer like Boris Johnson, as seems likely, the U.K. will be on course to crash out without a deal. Bercow said it was "quite wrong" to think such an outcome was inevitable. As for his own future, Bercow said: "Now is a time in which momentous events are taking place and there are great issues to be resolved and in those circumstances it doesn't seem to me to be sensible to vacate the chair. And if I had any intentions to announce on that matter... I would do so to Parliament first. In light of recent anti-abortion laws throughout the country, 2020 presidential candidate Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) is proposing a plan that would require states trying to restrict abortion access to pre-clear any new reproductive health laws with the Department of Justice. Why it matters: Harris is outlining a clear vision of her priorities if elected president shift the burden from those that face discrimination to those in power, particularly for women. Last week Harris unveiled a plan to end the gender pay gap by fining non-compliant companies, making employers not the employees accountable for the problem. This time, she's proposing the burden be on states to prove they're not violating constitutional rights by restricting abortion. Details: Harris' reproductive rights proposal was formally unveiled during an MSNBC town hall on Tuesday night. Any state that has introduced laws in violation of Roe v. Wade in the last 25 years her campaign points to South Carolina, Iowa, and Georgia as examples have to obtain a pre-clearance from the DOJ to move forward with any new abortion laws. introduced laws in violation of Roe v. Wade in the last 25 years her campaign points to South Carolina, Iowa, and Georgia as examples have to obtain a pre-clearance from the DOJ to move forward with any new abortion laws. That's similar to the Voting Rights Act, which requires a "pre-clearance" process that "blocks discrimination before it occurs." which requires a "pre-clearance" process that "blocks discrimination before it occurs." The plan adds to the Women's Health Protection Act, which Harris co-sponsors in the Senate and which goes after state laws that restrict abortion access. to the Women's Health Protection Act, which Harris co-sponsors in the Senate and which goes after state laws that restrict abortion access. Any new abortion laws "in a covered jurisdiction" will be illegal and unenforceable until the DOJ determines whether they are compliant with both the Women's Health Protection Act and Roe v. Wade. "in a covered jurisdiction" will be illegal and unenforceable until the DOJ determines whether they are compliant with both the Women's Health Protection Act and Roe v. Wade. Health care providers and their patients would have the ability to sue the DOJ if it doesn't enforce the abortion rights guaranteed under Roe and the Women's Health Protection Act. What they're saying: Proposed abortion bans like in Alabama, Georgia and Missouri "will be struck down right away because they're patently unconstitutional, but there's a burden on Planned Parenthood and the ACLU to challenge those laws," said Laurie Rubiner, former vice president of public policy at Planned Parenthood. "I like that she's thinking so creatively about shifting that burden." "The pre-clearance provision is surprising in the sense that it's really bold, which is great. I think it's really badly needed," Rubiner added. The big picture: Other 2020 candidates like Sens. Elizabeth Warren, Kirsten Gillibrand, and Bernie Sanders have released detailed abortion plans, but none have proposed a pre-clearance requirement. Go deeper: Kamala Harris on the issues, in under 500 words Netflix's Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos suggested that the streaming service is considering boycotting Georgia in light of the state's "fetal heartbeat" abortion ban, the NYT reports. Why it matters: Netflix isn't making a concrete promise, but it is the first major Hollywood studio to make a public statement as other film industry figures pledge to boycott the state following its restrictive abortion ban. What they're saying: We have many women working on productions in Georgia, whose rights, along with millions of others, will be severely restricted by this law. Its why we will work with the A.C.L.U. and others to fight it in court. Given the legislation has not yet been implemented, well continue to film there while also supporting partners and artists who choose not to. Should it ever come into effect, wed rethink our entire investment in Georgia. Ted Sarandos in a statement released Monday The state of play: Florida and South Carolina are considering their own "fetal heartbeat" bills, and Louisiana is close to passing one. West Virginia introduced a "fetal heartbeat" bill earlier this year. The ACLU said it plans to sue Georgia over the bill. Our thought bubble from Axios' media reporter Sara Fischer: Consumers expect brands to stand up for issues they believe in. But some issues are more contentious to stand up for than others. Abortion, as well as gun control, are 2 issues that brands typically stay away from, as they are more polarizing than issues such as equal pay or climate change. That makes Netflix's move notable. Go deeper: More filmmakers join slow-moving protest against Georgia's abortion ban Nuclear power could fall by as much as two-thirds in developed nations by 2040 absent policy support and more investment, making it vastly harder to keep global warming in check, a new International Energy Agency report warns. Why it matters: Nuclear is cumulatively the biggest zero-carbon power source in the nations IEA examined, which include the EU, the U.S. and Japan. A "significant" amount of this lost nuclear generation would be replaced by gas (and some coal) despite the surge in renewables, IEA said. The big picture: The report is the latest to show how nuclear power is likely needed to help with the uphill climb of holding global temperature rise below 2C. Threat level: If nuclear drops by two-thirds, "cumulative CO2 emissions would rise by 4 billion tons by 2040, adding to the already considerable difficulties of reaching emissions targets." The report arrives as long-running plants are shutting down and the pipeline of expensive new projects is small. The intrigue: Building new plants is really expensive. But losing nuclear is even more costly, IEA argues. "Without widespread lifetime extensions or new projects, electricity supply costs would be close to USD 80 billion higher per year on average for advanced economies as a whole," it states. What's next: The report calls on regulators to extend operation of decades-old plants at risk of shutting down due to licenses ending or competitive pressures. It also has proposals to help spur new development. Recommendations include various changes in market rules to better make continued operation of aging plants more attractive. New projects can be made more likely and less risky with a combination of policies like price guarantees, carbon pricing, government-backed financing and more support for small modular reactors. Go deeper: Green New Deal activists dismiss nuclear power Russia has criticized an upcoming conference in Bahrain at which the Trump administration will launch the economic part of its Middle East peace plan. Context: The Foreign Ministry in Moscow claims the conference is aimed at "imposing an alternative vision" for the peace process, but will fail like the U.S.-led anti-Iran conference in Warsaw last February. China and Russia notified the Palestinians several days ago they would boycott the conference. "The persistent desire by the U.S. to replace a comprehensive political solution with some economic 'bonuses' for the Palestinians is of deep concern. At this difficult stage, collective efforts to launch Israeli-Palestinian negotiations are needed, rather than unilateral 'deals' of opportunistic nature." Russian Foreign Ministry statement The Supreme Court today reinstated an Indiana law that requires the burial or cremation of fetal remains after an abortion. At the same time, it chose not to revive a part of the same law that banned abortions intended to select the sex or race of a child. Between the lines: The court offered explicit reassurances that its rulings today did not touch the fundamental principles of Roe v. Wade but the justices' ideological divisions were nevertheless on full display. Details: The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals struck down both parts of Indiana's anti-abortion law, and the appeal to the Supreme Court was seen as a potential referendum on Roe v. Wade. But the court wrote that its fetal-remains ruling "does not implicate" broader questions about women's right to an abortion. And it said it would simply stay out of any debate over sex- and race-selective abortions because only one federal appeals court has dealt with the issue. Those decisions were issued "per curiam," or for the court a tool the justices employ when they wish to speak with one voice, rather than in a traditional decision written by an individual justice. Yes, but: Even as the court tried to speak with one voice, it engendered plenty of dissent. Two liberals Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor said the court shouldn't have gotten involved in the fetal-remains question. And conservative Justice Clarence Thomas wrote his own opinion about sex- and race-selective abortion, calling it "a tool of modern-day eugenics" and reiterating his opposition to abortion generally. The bottom line: The court avoided core abortion questions today, but, as Thomas wrote, "cannot avoid them forever." Go deeper: Where abortion restrictions stand: The states that have passed laws By Trend: Fitch Ratings has affirmed Azerbaijan-based Expressbank Open Joint Stock Company's Long-Term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at 'B' with a Stable Outlook, Trend reports referring to the rating agency. The bank's short-term IDR was affirmed at 'B', the viability rating was at 'b', and the support rating was at '5'. The affirmation of Expressbank's ratings reflects its reasonable asset quality, weak profitability, solid capital buffers, limited exposure to foreign-exchange risks and comfortable liquidity. The ratings also take into account the bank's very high level of related-party lending and a limited franchise in Azerbaijan's challenging operating environment. IFRS 9 Stage 3 loans stood at a moderate 4.5% of gross loans at end-2018 and at 63 percent were adequately provisioned by specific reserves, based on management disclosures. The bulk of these loans were concentrated in the SME (small and medium enterprises) portfolio. Although SME loans amounted to only 8 percent of total loans, almost half were impaired. Fitch Ratings noted that Expressbank is hampered by weak revenue generation, high operational costs and high loan impairment charges. Pre-impairment profit weakened to 0.3 percent of average assets in 2018. However, the agency notes that Expressbank is well capitalised. The bank's FCC ratio decreased to 41% at end-2018 from 59% at end-2017 due to negative net income and loan-driven growth of risk-weighted assets. The regulatory Tier 1 ratio was a lower 21% at end-1Q19 due to a partial deduction of the related-party exposures, while the total capital ratio was 23%, both comfortably above the respective minimums of 5 percent and 10 percent," the agency said. Fitch noted that Expressbank is funded by customer accounts (83% of liabilities at end-1Q19) with the majority of funds raised from individuals (63% of liabilities). Corporate accounts decreased by 67% in 1Q19 due to repayment of funds to a large depositor. The buffer of highly liquid assets (cash and equivalents, net short-term interbank placements and placements with the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, including short-term bonds) decreased significantly but remained comfortable, equal to 26% of customer funding at end-1Q19. "Rating upside for Expressbank would require substantial franchise and financial profile strengthening, and a material reduction of related-party transactions," Fitch Ratings noted. Expressbank, which was established in 1989, is among 20 leading banks in Azerbaijan. By Trend: Starting in 2020, only farmers who sow certified seeds will receive subsidies related to grain production in Azerbaijan, Vugar Huseynov, Head of the Public Relations and Information Department of Azerbaijan's Ministry of Agriculture, told Trend. Huseynov noted that the ministry will change the rules for the allocation of subsidies. "After approval of the rules, subsidies will be issued only to farmers using certified seeds. In this regard, explanatory work is already underway. The Krasnodar-99 super elite wheat seeds, imported last year by the Ministry of Agriculture, proved high yields. Very good yields were observed even on non-irrigated lands," he said. Huseynov also added that the main task of the ministry in this regard is to increase both the average and the total yield. By Trend: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has congratulated Ethiopian president Mrs Sahle-Work Zewde. "On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I heartily congratulate you and your nation on the occasion of the national day of Ethiopia. On this remarkable day, I extend my best regards to you, and wish your people peace and prosperity," President Aliyev said. By Trend: US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has sent a letter of congratulation to the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of 28 May, the Republic Day, Trend reports referring to the Azerbaijani presidential press-service. On behalf of the Government of the United States, I extend my best wishes to the people of Azerbaijan as you celebrate Republic Day, he said. The United States considers Azerbaijan a reliable friend and partner, Pompeo added. We look forward to broadening our cooperation in the year ahead to increase bilateral trade, advance democratic and economic development, and strengthen people-to-people ties. We welcome Azerbaijans important contributions to international security and its leadership in energy diversification projects such as the Southern Gas Corridor. We remain committed to helping the sides find a peaceful and lasting settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict as a co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, he added. We welcome recent high-level engagement to pursue a negotiated resolution of the conflict, as well as efforts to create an environment conducive to productive discussions, and to prepare the populations for peace. By Trend: Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports referring to the Azerbaijani presidential press-service. "Dear Ilham Heydar oglu, accept my sincere congratulations on the occasion of national day of Azerbaijan, the Republic Day. Your country has been confidently moving forward along the path of socio-economic development, and plays an important role in addressing topical issues on international agenda," President Putin said. "Russia highly appreciates the relations of strategic partnership with Azerbaijan. I`m sure that through our joint efforts we will continue to successfully develop fruitful bilateral relations in all areas and constructive interaction in ensuring regional stability and security. Undoubtedly, it meets the best interests of our friendly nations." "Dear Ilham Heydar oglu, I wish you the best of health and success, and all citizens of Azerbaijan prosperity and well-being," he added. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Iran is not seeking nuclear weapons, which its supreme leader had banned in an edict, adding on Twitter that U.S. policies were hurting the Iranian people and causing regional tensions, Trend reported citing Reuters. Ayatollah (Ali) @khamenei_ir long ago said were not seeking nuclear weaponsby issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them, Zarif said in a tweet. (U.S.) Economic Terrorism is hurting the Iranian people and causing tension in the region. By Trend: President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and President of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier held talks in narrow and expanded formats, Trend reports citing Uzbek media. During the meeting at Kuksaroy residence in Tashkent, the Uzbekistan capital, the parties underlined the important role of the parliaments of the two countries in supporting multidimensional cooperation and sharing experience. The Presidents thoroughly discussed the issues of further expansion of the political, trade, economic, investment, financial, technical, cultural and humanitarian cooperation, as well as the international and regional agenda. The parties assessed the current state of trade and economic cooperation and identified priority areas for its expansion. It was noted that in 2018, the volume of mutual trade grew by 25 percent and exceeded $770 million. Nowadays, more and more German companies express interest in the Uzbek market. Measures for the preparation and acceleration of joint investment projects and programs were analyzed and identified. A consistent political dialogue is maintained between Uzbekistan and Germany. As reported, the efforts of Uzbekistan to strengthen stability in the region, promote the peace process in Afghanistan, and overcome the consequences of the Aral Sea disaster are highly appreciated in Berlin. The parties expressed their readiness to continue to provide mutual support within the framework of international organizations. Prospects for interaction in the format of Uzbekistan - European Union were also discussed. Issues of countering terrorism and extremism and strengthening security cooperation were also considered. The presidents welcomed the launch of the Uzbek-German consultations on Afghanistan to promote socio-economic, investment and infrastructure projects in this country. The parties reaffirmed the mutual commitment to the development of full-scale cooperation and the proximity and coincidence of positions on all the issues discussed during the negotiations. Richwood, TX (77531) Today Cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 71F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 71F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. I attended an all-male Jesuit high school 60 years ago. At that time there was almost no social awareness concerning sexual predators in the p E nglish Quiz For SBI PO Exam 2019 The SBI PO Prelims Exam is scheduled to be held in a few days and to ace your preparations Bankersadda is launching a crash course of 18 days to help you excel the exams. Here is a quiz on English Language being provided by Adda247 for free to let you practice the best of latest pattern English Questions for SBI PO Examination 2019-20. Video Solutions will also be provided for the same for free. Theis scheduled to be held in a few days and to ace your preparations Bankersadda is launchingto help you excel the exams. Here is a quiz onto let you practice the best of latest pattern English Questions for SBI PO Examination 2019-20.will also be provided for the same for free. Directions (1-10): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions given below it. Certain words are given in bold to help you locate them while answering some of the questions. Paragraph 1: Indias ambitious Smart Cities program focuses on the need for the computer systems enabling smart cities to have an open-source system infrastructure in order to make them efficient in collaborating with the various intelligent platforms that will run the smart cities via a smoothly functioning network, which will allow for cooperation among disparate civic bodies within a city. India is not alone in this ambitious initiative. Municipalities over the world have realized how valuable it can be to make their cities smarter. Smart City initiatives across the globe will attract technology investments of more than $81 billion in 2018, and spending is set to grow to $158 billion in 2022, according to the International Data Corp. (IDC). Singapore, Tokyo and New York City will be among the largest spenders. Serena Da Rold of IDC has been quoted as saying that intelligent transportation and data-driven public safety remain the largest investment areas, but that IDC is also finding significant pockets of spending and growth in back-office and platform-related use cases, which are less often publicized, but increasingly happening behind the scenes in cities around the world. Paragraph 2: The opportunity to make money in installations like these does not lie in a closed, monolithic implementation, but is facilitated by an open system with the ability to easily add new services, applications and sensors. In such a model, it is not just the connections from application to application that are open. Every aspect of the enabling infrastructure is open, including its internal schema and interfaces, and the entire programming source code of the implementation is also made available on a royalty-free basis. People are well aware of the vulnerabilities personal devices such as smartphones, laptops, routers and other hardware have, and the firms that make them work hard to plug gaps in a never-ending catch-up game with hackers. An entire sub-industry has been spawned for companies such as Symantec Inc., which owns Norton, the antivirus and anti-malware firm. It turns out that while firms that are involved in the smart cities program stand to make more money as they roll out new sensors, each with an Internet of Things (IoT)-based connection to their own application, as well as to other related smart cities applications, the weakest link in smart cities installations may also actually lie at this sensor level. Paragraph 3: According to Wired magazine, researchers from IBM Security worked with their counterparts from security firm Threat care to investigate sensor hubs from three different companies, Battelle, Echelon Corp. and Libelium, who sell systems to support smart cities installations. The researchers found that these sensor arrays are at great risk of being hacked. These firms business is to set up an interconnected array of sensors and allow municipalities to use IoT information from these sensors to solve problems of coordination between various city agencies. These sensors monitor a variety of factors, such as pollution and traffic flow, and can automatically cause action at the ground level by controlling functions such as traffic lights, street lighting and emergency alerts. The magazine cites the instance of the false alarm that went off earlier this year in Hawaii about an expected missile attack as an example of such an accident. This particular false alarm was enormously stressful, coming as it did in the wake of sabre rattling by North Korea about its ability to hit US cities with its expanded nuclear missile capabilities. Paragraph 4: The three firms have confirmed the vulnerabilities and issued patches for all the bugs. The magazine stated that researchers have confirmed none of the bugs their white hat or friendly hacking efforts exposed have actually been exploited by others with mala-fide intent. That said, officials in many countries, including the US, have acknowledged that their infrastructure is vulnerable, and it isnt just the ballot box that the bad guys are coming after. For instance, Russian hackers have long been suspected of causing widespread electricity blackouts in the Ukraine. Municipalities would do well to earmark some of those billions of dollars to focus on ongoing spending on security, much as corporations and individuals spend money on antivirus and anti-malware shields for their devices. Q1. Apart from the back-office and platform use related cases, what are the major significant areas for IDC to invest? Infrastructure investment to boost economy Data-driven public safety Intelligent transportation Both (a) and (b) Both (b) and (c) Solution: Option (e) is the appropriate choice here. The answer can be referred from paragraph 1 where it is given that intelligent transportation and data-driven public safety remain the largest investment areas, but that IDC is also finding significant pockets of spending and growth in back-office and platform-related use cases, which are less often publicized, but increasingly happening behind the scenes in cities around the world. Q2. What is the weakest link mentioned in the smart city installation? A larger support system is required for their installation which requires proper management. These are less often publicized. officials in many countries, including the US, have acknowledged that their infrastructure is vulnerable Sensors are at a great risk of being hacked. All of these. Solution: The correct choice here is option (d).For the answer ,both the paragraph 2 and 3 have to be referred. As paragraph 2 states about the how the weakest link in smart cities installations may lie at this sensor level. The level is mentioned in paragraph 3 which is the researchers found that these sensor arrays are at great risk of being hacked. Q3. How do sensors help in the management of traffic flow? With the help of induction coil at bayonet. By causing false alarm situations. IoT are being used to acquire traffic data quickly and send it for processing Remote sensing can help determine passengers. None of these. Solution: Option (c) is the correct choice. The answer can be deduced from paragraph 2 where it is mentioned that smart cities program stand to make more money as they roll out new sensors, each with an Internet of Things (IoT)-based connection to their own application, as well as to other related smart cities applications .IoT is the network of physical devices embedded with electronics, software, actuators, sensors and connectivity which enables these devices to connect and exchange data and signals. Q4. A line has been quoted in bold in paragraph 2. In what reference has the entire sub- industry been spawned? The entire sub industry has been spawned as it is less publicized. With reference to the vulnerabilities personal devices such as smartphones, laptops etc. end up catching with hackers. It has not been affected by the bugs. Both (a) and (b) None of these. Solution: The most suitable choice here is option (b).This line is quoted in bold in paragraph 2 which states that people are well aware of the vulnerabilities personal devices such as smartphones, laptops, routers and other hardware have, and the firms that make them work hard to plug gaps in a never-ending catch-up game with hackers. Q5. What is meant by the idiom white hat? Expert who may sometimes violate laws or typical ethical standards but does not have the malicious intent. A person who breaks into a computer system with the purpose of inflicting damage or stealing data. A person who hacks ethically into a computer network in order to test or evaluate its security systems. Both (a) and (c). Both (b) and (c). Solution: Only option (c) stands out as the suitable choice for the answer. The answer has to be deduced and concluded from paragraph 4 based on the authors statement that the vulnerabilities exposed to the bugs have been confirmed by the researchers that none of the bugs their white hat or friendly hacking efforts exposed have actually been exploited by others with mala-fide intent. This means that white hat are the friendly hacking efforts which are not exposed by mala fide intent. Q6. Choose the word which is most nearly the SAME in meaning as the word printed in bold as used in the passage. Disparate Realistic Akin Homologous incongruous Connate Solution: Disparate means dissimilar. incongruous means the same. Akin means similar. Homologous means having the same relation, relative position, or structure. Connate means united so as to form a single part. Q7. Choose the word which is most nearly the SAME in meaning as the word printed in bold as used in the passage. Monolithic Erratic Immutable Mercurial Capricious Intermittent Solution: Monolithic means unchanging. Immutable means unchangeable. Erratic means inconsistent. Mercurial means subject to sudden or unpredictable changes of mood or mind. Capricious means given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior. Intermittent means occurring at irregular intervals; not continuous or steady. Q8. Choose the word which is most nearly the SAME in meaning as the word printed in bold as used in the passage. Spawned Disappeared Consummated Suppressed engender Halted Solution: Spawned means to produce. Engender-to give existence to Hence engender is the appropriate option. Consummated means concluded. Q9. Choose the word which is the OPPOSITE in meaning as the word printed in bold as used in the passage Rattling Clattering Placating Chattering Jarring Clinking Solution: Rattling means making or causing to make a rapid succession of short, sharp knocking. sounds. Placating means soothing. Clattering means a continuous rattling sound as of hard objects falling or striking each other. Chattering means making a series of short, quick high-pitched sounds. Jarring means causing a physical shock, jolt, or vibration. Q10. Choose the word which is the OPPOSITE in meaning as the word printed in bold as used in the passage Vulnerable Impuissant Unshielded Unfortified Pregnable indomitable Solution: Vulnerable means unprotected. Its opposite is Invincible which means invulnerable or indestructible. Impuissant means unable to take effective action; powerless. Unfortified means not fortified against attack. Pregnable means vulnerable to attack. Indomitable- incapable of being subdued Directions (11-15): In each of the question given below a/an idiom/phrase is given in bold which is then followed by five options which then try to decipher its meaning as used in the sentence. Choose the option which gives the meaning of the phrase most appropriately in context of the given sentence. Q11. After his debacle, his career is on the skids. subservience destroyed panned glib garbled Solution: The correct word that deciphers the meaning of the phrase on the skids is destroyed as on the skids means certain to fail/destroy. Hence, the word destroyed provides the intended meaning to the sentence without altering the context of the sentence. Hence, option (b) becomes the most suitable answer choice. Subservience means willingness to obey others unquestioningly. Panned- criticized severely. Glib- fluent but insincere and shallow Q12. Managing to clear the cutoff was a shot in the arm for him and he started studying with more intensity. accent gist boost bulge brim Solution: The correct word that deciphers the meaning of the phrase shot in the arm is boost as shot in the arm means to encourage. Hence, the word boost provides the intended meaning to the sentence without altering the context of the sentence. Hence, option(c) becomes the most suitable answer choice. Accent means a special or particular emphasis. Gist means the substance or general meaning of a speech or text. Bulge means a rounded swelling which distorts an otherwise flat surface. Brim means be full to the point of overflowing. Q13. He set his fathers advice at naught and suffered a great deal afterwards. limit abuse defy appreciate adore Solution: The correct word that deciphers the meaning of the phrase set at naught is defy as set at naught means to disregard. Hence, the word defy provides the intended meaning to the sentence without altering the context of the sentence. Hence, option(c) becomes the most suitable answer choice. Adore means love and respect (someone) deeply. Q14. Investors also took heart from signs that the company has started performing well. emboldened mediocre navigable dwindle revitalize Solution: The correct word that deciphers the meaning of the phrase take heart is revitalize as take heart means to feel encouraged. Hence, the word revitalized provides the intended meaning to the sentence without altering the context of the sentence. Hence, option (e) becomes the most suitable answer choice. Revitalized-re-energize Navigable means (of a website) easy to move around in. Dwindle means diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength. Mediocre- of only average quality; not very good. Q15. Johns too young to take on a job like this, hes still wet behind the ears. impair naive taper slump expatiate Solution: The correct word that deciphers the meaning of the phrase wet behind the ears is naive as wet behind the ears means inexperienced. Hence, the word naive provides the intended meaning to the sentence without altering the context of the sentence. Hence, option (b) becomes the most suitable answer choice. Impair means weaken or damage (something, especially a faculty or function). Taper means diminish or reduce in thickness towards one end. Expatiate means speak or write in detail about. Slump means sit , lean, or fall heavily and limply. Download Free Topic-wise and Mock Test PDF You may also like to Read: Chinese fund focuses on advanced materials and chemistry-related technologies Partnership will facilitate synergetic collaboration between BASF Venture Capital and Longwater Investment Shanghai, China, and Ludwigshafen, Germany, May 27, 2019 BASF Venture Capital is investing in the Longwater Advanced Materials Fund. This private equity fund is managed by Longwater Investment, a pioneer growth capital investor in advanced materials and chemistry-related technologies in China. BASF Venture Capital is one of several Limited Partners; other investors include Xiamen C & D, CICC Genesis and Tsinghua Redbud. The Asian market plays an important role in BASFs growth strategy. This investment underlines our commitment to further expanding BASFs innovation capabilities in China, said Markus Solibieda, Managing Director of BASF Venture Capital. Longwaters experts are well versed in Chinas chemical industry. Involvement in Longwaters network will support BASFs aim to engage with fast-growing companies and develop jointly with them innovations for its customers. BASF Venture Capital generates new growth potential for BASF by investing in young companies and funds. One of its strategic focus areas is new chemical technologies and materials. Longwater, a leading specialist in China, has built a strong network with competent start-ups and is therefore a powerful partner in this field. We are happy to welcome BASF Venture Capital as a Limited Partner in our network, said Xuesong Shi, Managing Director of Longwater. BASF is a widely respected global market leader in the chemical and materials sector. BASF Venture Capital, which supplements BASFs innovation initiatives, has extensive access to and insights into various related segments and shares a common philosophy and vision with Longwater Investment as regards smart energy, sustainability, chemical-industry digitalization, and much more. The partnership will facilitate synergetic collaboration between BASF Venture Capital and Longwater Investment. Longwaters network spans a variety of industrial verticals and comprises multiple global and domestic market leaders in the chemical field as strategic investors, as well as other external strategic partners that can provide insights and resources to Longwaters investment activities and create synergies among stakeholders. Cash is no longer king. In fact, economies that are more cash intensive tend to grow slowly and miss out on significant financial benefits. Conversely, economies that switch to digital are more successful; the switch can boost annual GDP by as much as 3 percentage points, BCG research shows. Numerous examples around the world illustrate how cashless payments are economic propellers. Bangladeshs bKash, which enables transfers via mobile phones, has spurred growth and boosted financial inclusion in that country. The upside comes not from more money but from digitals role in simplifying the process of sending and receiving payments. Among advanced economies, Sweden and South Korea have moved steadily away from cash. (Cash transactions in Sweden made up less than 2% of the value of payments in 2018, for example.) The result has been a shrinking gray economy, booming online commerce, and a sharp reduction in fraud. And yet, despite the evidence, there is little sign the world will go cashless anytime soon. Cash remains the worlds most widely used payment instrument. Perhaps surprisingly, the global ratio of cash to GDP rose to 9.6% in 2018, compared with 8.1% in 2011. In Europe, 80% of point-of-sale transactions are still conducted in cash. People have a strong emotional connection to notes, coins, and currencyand a lingering distrust of digital alternatives. Slow progress toward cashless economies may be a source of frustration to policymakers, merchants, and financial institutions, all of which stand to accrue benefits from digital. However, there are steps they can take. The right strategies, incentives, infrastructure, and regulation can encourage innovation and boost public confidence in noncash systems. Partnerships, both public and private, can also be critical in marshaling expertise and creating momentum. The tools are in place. All that is required to move forward is the will to act. The right strategies, incentives, infrastructure, and regulation can boost public confidence in noncash systems. Cash Versus Digital Despite huge growth in smartphone adoption and increasing demand for digital banking, the majority of countries remain heavily dependent on cash. Some 2 billion people globally do not have a bank account, showing that cash remains essential to financial inclusion. And cash is entrenched in the economies of many developed markets. In the UK, the broad measure of money supply, encompassing coins, notes, and cash-like instruments, reached 82 billion in late 2018, compared with about 68 billion four years previously. Cash is popular because it is user-friendly. It is inclusive, trusted (it does not require intermediation by third parties), accessible, and reliable. It doesnt require point-of-sale (POS) technology and cant be hacked or undermined by a loss of power, a cyber attack, or a system failure. Spending cash does not create a data point that might be exploited for cross-selling. Still, cash is inherently problematic. Undeclared payments in cash lead to tax gaps, and there are costs associated with handling, printing, transporting, and safeguarding cash. One major North American bank spends approximately $5 billion per year processing cash and check transactions and servicing ATMs. In the UK, the cost of free-to-the-customer ATM withdrawals is estimated at about 1 billion a year. Where ATM fees are charged, they are regressive, impacting lower-income demographics more than others. Cash is inherently problematic. Payments using a card, app, or computer, conversely, are transparent, clean, and usually quite simple. No trips to the ATM are required, and theres no need to worry about carrying large amounts of cash in public. There is no cost of handling (although those savings are more than offset by card fees paid by merchants and indirectly by customers). Further, because cards, apps, and other digital solutions make it easier to send and receive money, they increase economic activity and generate a wide array of financial and nonfinancial benefits. BCG estimates that a move to a cashless model would add about 1 percentage point to the annual GDPs of mature economies and more than 3 percentage points to those of emerging economies. (See Exhibit 1.) One reason is that mobile money can increase the velocity of value transfers. In addition, digital transactions provide more transparency, making it easier to offer and obtain financing. A Sour Lake Police Department officer has suffered head injuries after he was reportedly assaulted. William McKeon, 59, was in "very critical, but stable condition" Tuesday and will "undergo numerous surgeries in the coming hours and days," Hardin County Sheriff Mark Davis said. McKeon, a four-year veteran of the department, responded around 8:30 p.m. to a call from J&R Meat Market on Texas 326, where a man later identified as a transient from Kentucky refused to leave when asked by store employees, Davis said. Davis said the man attacked McKeon after he approached to ask him to leave. "You hear the word senseless crime but this is really a classic example," the sheriff said. A bystander and off-duty Beaumont police officer attempted to stop the assault when the suspect pulled the Sour Lake officer's gun and threatened them, the sheriff said. He then broke out the window of the police cruiser and fled the scene. Officers deployed spike strips on Texas 326 in Kountze, stopping the vehicle. The driver fled on foot into the woods. He was spotted at daybreak, Davis said, and taken into custody. Bradley Joseph Pruitt, 45, has been charged with aggravated assault on a public servant, aggravated assault, evading arrest, unlawful possession of a firearm and taking a weapon from an officer. The Kentucky man is being held on bonds totaling $4 million. He is wanted on a warrant in New Mexico for assault of a peace officer, Davis said. In response to concerns and criticisms raised by some Lamar University faculty, the Texas State University System Board of Regents has decided to express support for the university's president. The board on Monday released a statement expressing its "full confidence that President Ken Evans possesses the ability, intellect and experience necessary to lead Lamar University into the future." The resolution was unanimously approved on Friday. Assistant Professor Kelly Weeks, who teaches in the College of Business, helped lead the charge to demand a forensic audit and vote of no-confidence in the university's president and provost. In response, the university's Faculty Senate has established an ad-hoc committee to investigate his concerns about the university's management of funds and transparency. Board of Regents Chairman Bill Scott, a Lamar University distinguished alumnus, said the faculty members' criticism is unfounded and most of their concerns spring from financial decisions that had to be made in the wake of Tropical Storm Harvey. "I wholeheartedly support this resolution," Scott said in a statement. "In this age of fake news, we must remember that what we see on the internet is not necessarily true." In a prepared statement published by Lamar University last week, the university said the budget concerns raised by the faculty member largely come from the allocation of resources to support operations after Tropical Storm Harvey and "other factors that impacted revenue." The statement says the university saw a $5 million deficit after Harvey, declining international student enrollment and a $3.2 million decrease in funding given to the university by the state. "Once Harvey hit, Lamar University immediately redirected money and effort to help students cope with the impact of the disaster," the statement said. "Further resources were made available to help faculty and staff. The total expenditure amounted to just under $3 million. Understandably, this reallocated both funding and expectations universitywide." A statement from the Board of Regents said the system administrators and third-party auditors had previously reviewed these decisions and "found they were prudent and necessary in light of the hurricane's impact on university operations." Jacob Dick is the Business Reporter for the Beaumont Enterprise. Contact him at Jacob.Dick@BeaumontEnterprise.com or on Twitter by clicking here. By Azernews By Abdul Kerimkhanov Azerbaijan marks one of the most significant days in its history - the creation of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR) - on May 28. Azerbaijan Democratic Republic became the first secular republic in the Muslim world. Since 1992, Azerbaijan celebrates the state holiday on May 28, the Republic Day. The Azerbaijan National Council in Tiflis, which was headed by Mammadamin Rasulzade, proclaimed the creation of the ADR on May 28, 1918. The words of Rasulzade "The flag raised once will never be lowered" made the history. The city of Ganja became the temporary capital of the ADR and the Azerbaijani government moved from Tiflis to Ganja on June 16, 1918. Azerbaijan Democratic Republic and Turkey concluded an agreement on peace and friendship on June 4, 1918. The Azerbaijani language was declared the ADR state language on June 27, 1918. The armed forces of the Baku Council of the People's Commissars launched an offensive against Ganja on June 12, 1918. The combined Turkish-Azerbaijani troops defeated the Bolshevik army at Goychay. The Turkish-Azerbaijani army entered Baku on September 15, 1918, and the city was declared the capital of the ADR. The Parliament of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was opened on December 7, 1918, initially consisting of 97 members. Ali Mardan Topchubashov became chairman of the parliament, Ahmad Aghayev became his deputy. The Supreme Council of the victorious countries in the First World War unanimously decided to recognize the de facto independence of Azerbaijan Democratic Republic on January 11, 1920. Unfortunately, ADR lasted only 23 months. The 11th Red Army troops approached the northern borders of Azerbaijan in the mid-April, 1920. In late April, the Red Army crossed the borders and began the occupation of ADR. On April 28, the Red Army entered Baku and thus the ADR ceased to exist. Although the ADR fell and not having managed to fully achieve its goals, the idea of independence, enshrined in mind of Azerbaijanis, was not forgotten. After the USSR collapse, Azerbaijan restored its independence in 1991, declaring itself the heir to the ADR and restoring the attributes of Democratic Azerbaijan - the flag, the emblem and the anthem. Established in 1918, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic is a national treasure and the brightest page in the history of Azerbaijan. The following years comprise significant stages of the country's life, marked by bright events, great achievements of the Azerbaijani people. All this has created the economic, intellectual and cultural potential of today's independent Azerbaijan. The creation and activities of ADR showed the world the independence of Azerbaijan, the implementation of the freedom-loving hopes of the Azerbaijani people, vitally connected with their statehood. Clear skies are over San Antonio today, but May has a history of torrential and fatal flooding in the area. This Memorial Day marks four years since Central Texas was pummeled by rain, that lead to flooding that claimed the lives of 17 people across the state and Oklahoma. LAURENT EMMANUEL / LAURENT EMMANUEL / AFP/Getty Images Lawmakers have been handing out tax breaks to special-interest groups ever since the days of quill pens and parchment paper, and the Texas Legislature is no exception. The current session, however, has seen a strange twist to this phenomenon. Legislators are trying to reduce the tax bills for owners of honky-tonk saloons and expensive yachts, two things rarely mentioned in the same sentence. In this case, however, they share something in common. Neither tax break is justified. The handout to honky-tonks and dance halls is being sold as a way to protect our states musical heritage. The owners of these music venues want the Legislature to create a $10 million music incubator fund that would be used to subsidize payments for live music, promotions and building upkeep. It would be funded by giving back some of the sales taxes the state collects on alcohol sales at these places. Honor our veterans Dear fellow Texans As we enjoy the blessings of family and friends this Memorial Day, let us all take a moment to recollect the reason for this day. Today, we honor the men and women who sacrificed their lives, so that we may enjoy the freedoms we hold so dear. I ask you to unite with family and friends in a national moment of remembrance at 3 p.m. to reflect on the sacrifices made in defense of our values and to remember our servicemembers lost in service to our nation. For over 150 years, Memorial Day has been a national holiday honoring those who died in service to our nation. Let us remember our history and see our present, so that the thousands of Americans who have served and lost their lives to war, from days past to present, will not be forgotten. On this day, we remember those who gallantly fought for each one of us. Their courage and sacrifice will always be remembered and honored across this great state, this great nation and most importantly, in our hearts. Eliseo Al Cantu, Jr. Chairman, Texas Veterans Commission, Austin No tax breaks for yachts I read the article in The Enterprise on Thursday regarding the Boat Tax Break Bill proposed by state Sen. Larry Taylor, R-Friendswood. This proposal is preposterous. It proposes a sales tax cap on boats, including yachts, at $18,750. It is expected, if passed, to cost the state a revenue loss of $2.3 million over the next two years. This is an unnecessary loss of revenue. The article states that a person purchasing a $3 million dollar boat would save $228,000 in sales tax with this proposed bill. If you are someone who can afford to purchase a $3 million yacht, then you can afford to pay the sales taxes on it. State Sen. Taylor obviously has friends in high places who want him to be the Sheriff of Nottingham and steal more money from the poor to support the wealthiest in the state. This state has a border crisis that it says it cant afford but it can consider passing proposed legislation to give up revenue to allow wealthy to not pay their fair share of sales taxes. This state has people who are still out of their homes from two years ago when Harvey hit, yet they can afford to give up $2.3 million so the wealthy can play on their yachts or large boats. Besides the coastline from Brownsville to the Louisiana state line, where pray tell are you going to run a 115-foot yacht? This is a waste of resources and revenue. And as for the other states doing this same thing, the Texas Legislature does not have to be lemmings and jump off the proverbial cliff. If state Sen. Taylor or his cronies want to purchase a $3 million yacht to play on, then they should consider moving to Florida, Alabama, Delaware or Rhode Island where they can get their better deal. This is another example of the fraud, waste and abuse that plagues the state of Texas. This should be stopped. Carol A. Larranaga, Nederland Entergy will be ready Any moment without electricity can be difficult, which is why we at Entergy Texas take pride in our commitment to ensuring that we quickly and safely restore all our customers following severe weather. We would like to thank all our customers for their patience, support and understanding as we worked to restore power over Mothers Day weekend. The high winds, lighting and heavy rain caused significant damage across our region that week. Crews worked tirelessly to restore more than 100,000 outages, with nearly 43 percent of those outages in the Port Arthur area, where damage was most severe. Although it was a spring thunderstorm, the damage to our equipment was more consistent with damage seen following a small hurricane. We understand the critical role we play in each of our customers lives. That is why our restoration work will always be focused on serving all our customers and restoring power as quickly and safely as possible. As we start another hurricane season, I wanted to ensure all residents of Southeast Texas that Entergy Texas stands ready to respond to whatever storms come our way. We are continually working to improve our storm response and exceed our customers expectations. Sallie Rainer, President and CEO, Entergy Texas, Inc. Special counsel Robert Mueller is beginning to look like former FBI Director James Comey a guy who started out angering one party and ended up irritating the other. Something like this is rare enough in American politics, but for it to happen so quickly in succession to two figures so deeply linked to each other is unprecedented. We do live in strange times. Mueller is now ticking off Democrats because he doesnt want to testify in public about his investigation of Russian meddling in the 2016 campaign. This is frustrating to party leaders because they believe his prime-time testimony about President Trumps transgressions could be money in the bank for their 2020 candidates. But first, they have to get him in front of a TV camera. Republicans, some of whom criticized Mueller while his investigation was going on for leading a witch hunt, now think hes a standup guy. They, not the Democrats, are suddenly defending him for his political courage. What a flip-flop. And what an echo of Comeys saga. As you may recall, Comey first infuriated Democrats by claiming two weeks before the 2016 presidential election that he had uncovered new evidence about Hillary Clintons infamous emails. Many Democrats believe this was the single greatest reason that Hillary lost. The bombshell came at the worst possible time and may have helped Trump win a few key states by slim margins (and thus the presidency). Comey later tried to walk back the claims by saying that the new investigation really didnt uncover any relevant information, but the damage was done. He was bitterly criticized by Democrats for violating a Justice Department policy not to do anything that might affect an election. Yet Comey said that if he had not come forward with the possibility that he had a new angle to the old story, he could have been accused of a coverup to help Hillary. But of course soon after Trump was elected, Comey resisted efforts by the new president to muffle the Russia investigation and take it easy on his aides like Michael Flynn. This eventually led to Comey being fired and Mueller being appointed, delighting Democrats and angering the GOP. And now it is the reluctant Mueller who is going from one partys hero to the others villain within the span of a few months. The turn of events is just surreal. Democrats still want to know if Mueller believes Trump obstructed justice (which his report strongly suggested) and whether he believes there is other evidence of impeachable conduct (also possible). Mueller has agreed to have a transcript of his private testimony released to the public, and thats better than nothing. But its also a pale substitute for what Democrats hope will be riveting, audio-visual testimony about Trumps conduct. Democrats dont want dry words on a page. They hope to get a modern version of John Dean telling Congress about a cancer on the presidency. Muellers decision to testify in public or not will have a big impact on the next presidential election. One party will be energized, the other will be demoralized. Stay tuned to find which is which. Thomas Taschinger, TTaschinger@BeaumontEnterprise.com, is the editorial page editor of The Beaumont Enterprise. Follow him at Twitter.com/@PoliticalTom Portsmouth, N.H.-based ConvenientMD plans to build a 5,000-square-foot outpatient facility in Westborough, Mass., the Worcester Business Journal reports. What you should know: 1. The facility will feature two procedure rooms and a diagnostic lab. 2. The facility's providers will perform diagnostic and minor surgical services. 3. ConvenientMD claims it can treat up to 80 percent of patients who would otherwise need a trip to the emergency room. Medtronic is the most valuable medical device and equipment company in the world, according to a report from brand valuation company Brand Finance. The 10 most valuable companies: 1. Medtronic 2. Fresenius Medical Care 3. McKesson 4. AmerisourceBergen 5. BD 6. Cardinal Health 7. Stryker 8. Boston Scientific 9. Henry Schein 10. Baxter Often when hospitals or health systems violate HIPAA rules, they are required to pay hefty fines. Recently, Medical Informatics Engineering, a medical records service provider, paid $100,000 to settle a HIPAA violation that exposed the protected health information of nearly 3.5 million patients. Below are the 10 most common HIPAA violations, according to the HIPAA Journal. Snooping on healthcare records. Failure to perform an organization-wide risk analysis. Failure to manage security risks/Lack of a risk management process. Failure to enter into a HIPAA-compliant business associate agreement. Insufficient ePHI access controls. Failure to use encryption or an equivalent measure to safeguard ePHI on portable devices. Exceeding the 60-day deadline for issuing breach notifications. Impermissible disclosure of protected health information. Improper disposal of PHI. Denying patient access to health records/exceeding timescale for providing access. More articles on cybersecurity: Oregon State Hospital alerts patients of phishing attack Memorial Hermann employee 'improperly' used patients' credit card info First cybercrime hotline unveiled in Rhode Island A previously leaked cyberweapon created by the National Security Agency has been confirmed as the source for Baltimore's ransomware attack, according to The New York Times. Baltimore has been locked out of thousands of computers for nearly three weeks. The May 7 ransomware attack left city officials unable to access email accounts and other networks that provide health alerts and other systems. A key component of the ransomware attack, EternalBlue, was developed by the NSA and leaked in 2017 by an unidentified group known as the Shadow Brokers. EternalBlue was one of the most useful exploits in the NSA's cyberarsenal, NYT reports. NSA found a flaw in Microsoft's software and wrote a code to target the vulnerability. It was originally named EternalBluescreen because the malware would crash computers. However, NSA went on to use the tool for intelligence gathering and counterterrorism missions. EternalBlue was kept a secret from Microsoft for more than five years until it was leaked, forcing the NSA to alert Microsoft of the flaw in its software. Since being leaked, the malware has been used around the world to exploit money from towns and cities. Hackers are demanding $100,000 in Bitcoin from Baltimore city officials to receive decryption codes, NYT reports. Baltimore has refused to pay the ransom. Experts say that without EternalBlue the damage would not have been so widespread. EternalBlue allows hackers to exploit vulnerabilities in unpatched software and then spread malware faster and farther than other malware. Once alerted by the NSA of EternalBlue, Microsoft did release a patch for the flaw. However, thousands of computers remain unprotected, according to NYT. More articles on cybersecurity: Oregon State Hospital alerts patients of phishing attack Memorial Hermann employee 'improperly' used patients' credit card info First cybercrime hotline unveiled in Rhode Island NCH Healthcare System hired a search firm to help the Naples, Fla.-based system find a new CEO, but community leaders said the process lacks transparency, according to the Naples Daily News. NCH Healthcare began a national search for a new CEO after its former president and CEO Allen Weiss, MD, resigned Jan. 23. His resignation came days after staff physicians issued a vote of no confidence against him. Phil Dutcher, NCH's COO, took over as interim CEO. Concern over a new admissions policy at NCH Healthcare led to the vote. The policy stated that physicians outside of NCH could not write prescription orders. In light of the controversy, several community watchdogs have raised concerns about the system's decision to hire Russell Reynolds Associates to conduct the search for its next CEO. Everett Alsbrook, MD, a retired critical care physician at NCH, told the Naples Daily News, "My chief concern is there continues to be a lack of not only clarity in terms of what they are doing but also plans and visions going forward." Of the CEO search, Amanda Lucey, CEO of NCH's hired public relations firm The Partnership, told the Naples Daily News, "There were hundreds of candidates that were reviewed and vetted and narrowed to roughly 30." She said the hospital plans to hire its next president and CEO by the end of the summer. For the full article, click here. Beaumont Care Partners, the clinically integrated network of Southfield, Mich.-based Beaumont Health, will end its agreement with United Physicians, a roughly 2,500-member group also based in Michigan, according to Crain's Detroit Business. Beaumont's CIN, which is made up of Beaumont's eight hospitals and roughly 4,300 affiliated physicians, voted out United Physicians after the group failed to pay $800,000 in capital payments during the last two years, according to the report. United Physicians President Mike Williams, MD, told Crain's the organization withheld payments because the founding principles of the CIN were not being upheld. One-third of United Physicians' members are employed by Beaumont and continue to be employed by Beaumont even though United Physicians is no longer part of Beaumont Care Partners. Dr. Williams also told Crain's the motion to terminate the agreement during the CIN's mid-April meeting was unexpected and came from Beaumont CMO David Wood, MD. Beaumont Health and Beaumont ACO voted to remove United Physicians from the CIN without discussion, according to Dr. Williams. John Fox, CEO of Beaumont, told Crain's that a number of physicians had expressed frustration with the late capital payments. Beaumont officials also told the publication that United Physicians didn't comply with decisions to grow the CIN through more payer and employer contracts. While United Physicians will no longer be a part of Beaumont Care Partners, individual physicians within United Physicians will still care for Beaumont patients under the CIN's contracts covering about 60,000 lives, according to the report. Becker's Hospital Review reached out to Beaumont and United Physicians for comment. This article will be updated as more information is provided. More articles on integration and physician issues: Close to half of last-year residents would prefer hospital employment, survey finds Taking a lesson from precision medicine to improve population health, patient experiences Viewpoint: A physician commits suicide every day in the US that needs to change Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, Md., will get full control of Doctors Community Health System, a single-hospital system based in Lanham, Md., under a proposed merger, according to state documents reviewed by the Capital Gazette. Documents list the proposed regional health system's placeholder name as Greater Maryland Health System. The system will get its official name later this summer, Anne Arundel spokesperson Arminta Plater told the Gazette. Through the transaction, which requires regulatory approval, Anne Arundel would invest up to $138 million over five years into Doctors Community's campus and its IT infrastructure. The funds would also be used to expand inpatient and outpatient care. Anne Arundel and Doctors Community announced the merger May 13. The deal is set to close July 1. More articles on healthcare industry transactions: CHS continues hospital sell-off spree with deal in Texas Illinois health system strikes deal to add 5th hospital Political uncertainty could sink healthcare deals: 3 things to know Boston-based Massachusetts General Hospital officials announced May 23 that they have finalized plans to acquire Exeter (N.H.) Health Resources, according to the Boston Business Journal. The parties signed a definitive agreement roughly one year after MGH announced plans to incorporate Exeter Health Resources, a single-hospital system, with Dover, N.H.-based Wentworth-Douglass Hospital. MGH, part of Boston-based Partners HealthCare, acquired Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in 2016, according to the report. The agreement, which is subject to regulatory approval, calls for the creation of a new entity that would be the parent of both Exeter Health Resources and Wentworth-Douglass Hospital and will be part of MGH. "This agreement represents an important step in the hospitals' shared goal to enhance, grow and strengthen healthcare services in the Seacoast community," MGH President Peter L. Slavin, MD, said in a press release. "This proposed affiliation will harness the excellence and expertise of three top hospitals who will collectively offer southern New Hampshire residents the outstanding care they have come to expect close to home." More articles on healthcare industry transactions: CHS continues hospital sell-off spree with deal in Texas Illinois health system strikes deal to add 5th hospital Political uncertainty could sink healthcare deals: 3 things to know The first trial related to the opioid crisis in the U.S. against a drugmaker is set to begin May 28 in Oklahoma. Six things to know: 1. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter will face off against Johnson & Johnson. Mr. Hunter alleges J&J helped ignite the opioid crisis that has killed thousands of residents in the state by misleading physicians and patients about the risks associated with the painkillers. 2. Two other defendants Teva Pharmaceuticals and Purdue Pharma sidestepped the trial by reaching settlements with the state. Both denied any wrongdoing. 3. The trial is a bench trial, meaning it will be in front of a judge without a jury, according to NPR. 4. The Oklahoma lawsuit against J&J is the first opioid case to reach trial and could set a precedent for damages paid to communities and states for the crisis. All eyes are watching the landmark trial as it will provide an examination into how the country's opioid epidemic worsened and could also indicate to what degree drugmakers may be held responsible for fueling the crisis. 5. "We have looked at literally, millions of documents, taken hundreds of depositions, and we are even more convinced that these companies are the proximate cause for the epidemic in our state and in our country," Mr. Hunter told NPR. 6. The Oklahoma trial will be broadcast online and is expected to last most of the summer, according to Politico. Hacienda Healthcare is denying allegations that it improperly allowed a male nurse to care for a patient in a vegetative state who gave birth at its Phoenix-based facility in December, reports NBC affiliate 12 News. The patient's family filed a notice of claim against the state of Arizona last week, claiming they had repeatedly requested the facility employ a female-only team to care for the 29-year-old woman. The notice of claim argues that letting former Hacienda nurse Nathan Sutherland provide one-on-one care for the woman violated the family's requests. Mr. Sutherland was arrested in January and charged with rape and assault after DNA evidence matched him to the woman's baby. The notice of claim also accuses the state of Arizona of aiding the alleged crimes since it was responsible for funding and regulating Hacienda. The healthcare organization is defending its staffing decisions, saying Mr. Sutherland passed his background check before he was hired and had all necessary accreditations. In addition, Hacienda spokesperson David Leibowitz said the family's request for female staff members, documented on a 2017 Individual Support Plan form, applied to caretakers not physicians or nurses. A Texas hospital patient's body suffered burns after the defibrillator staff members were using on him started a fire, reports CBS affiliate KENS 5. The incident occurred Feb. 11 at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio. Clinicians were using the defibrillator to try to revive 70-year-old Robert Allen. A spark from the defibrillator ignited a fire, which spread to the patient, the bedding and his IV pump, according to an incident report cited by KENS 5. An oxygen source that was accidentally left on in the room contributed to the fire. Police ruled Mr. Allen was dead before the fire occurred, but said burn marks were present on his shoulders and back. Methodist Hospital confirmed a small fire involving a piece of equipment occurred at the facility. "We reported the incident to authorities and conducted an internal review to help ensure this does not happen in the future," the hospital said in a written statement to KENS 5. "The safety of our patients is a high priority for us; we regret this incident occurred but are grateful to our staff for reacting quickly in extinguishing the fire and continuing to care for patients." Editor's note: This article was updated May 29 at 11:48 a.m. Graham Cully is one of the youngest skippers in Northern Ireland For nearly 50 years Northern Ireland's fishing industry has felt trapped by European Union restrictions on catch quotas and the rights of foreign trawlers to operate in local waters. But Britain's decision to leave the EU and the effect it will have on local trawlermen now looms large on the horizon for many local skippers. Will Brexit ultimately allow our fleet to free itself from the net of Brussels bureaucracy? Or will local fishermen, who depend heavily on selling highly profitable local prawns to European countries, instead be left in deep water to face the introduction of potentially crippling new export tariffs? In April 2018, industry officials told the NI Affairs Committee that an estimated 92% of local fishermen had voted to leave the EU in June 2016. However, fishermen now face the very real prospect that, if there is no Brexit deal, they will be banned from entering Irish and European waters. In effect, this could mean that local boats will no longer be allowed to fish in large parts of the Foyle and Carlingford loughs. But even with the threat of being kept out of lucrative fishing grounds, some pro-Brexit skippers believe that being freed from EU bureaucracy could instead open up new markets in countries like China. However, for some local boats, there may be dangerously choppy waters ahead if EU chiefs decide to impose new import tariffs on our biggest and most economically important fishing export, the Dublin Bay prawn (nephrops). With the prospect of punitive tariffs and being excluded from traditional fishing waters, Northern Ireland Fish Producers Organisation (NIFPO) chief executive Harry Wick says that - three years on from the Brexit vote - local skippers are more determined than ever to leave Europe. "There will be a period of adjustment, I have no doubt about that," he admits. "I would very much like to have a sensible access arrangement with the rest of Europe. "But if we have to rely on our own territorial waters, our fleet can evolve to take advantage of that. "The larger EU vessels won't be here and we will have access to the fish that they were allowed to catch." For skippers like me it is all the EU bureaucracy and its rules and regulations that really kills us While the majority of local skippers believe that leaving Europe will bring benefits, there remains a sizeable minority for whom Brexit could mean financial uncertainty. As one of the youngest skippers in the Northern Irish fleet, Graham Cully, is unsure how Britains departure from the EU will impact on the lives of his young family. With his wife Jeanette and two-year-old daughter Gracie to provide for, the 34-year-old is anxious for the Brexit issue to be resolved. When he started out as a deckhand in 2000, Graham had already missed the financial bonanza that the 1970s had been for local fishermen. At one time the Cully family had five or six boats fishing. Now theres only me, he says. Having joined his first boat, the XL, as a 16-year-old novice, within two years Graham found himself searching for a new deck after it became the latest in a long line of local trawlers to be decommissioned. Despite the fact that he is now captain of his own 250,000 boat, Green Pastures, the financial future for the young skipper is not all plain sailing. Its hard for a young fisherman. Even before you have your own boat you need to buy a licence which could cost anything up to 200,000, he says. On top of that, you need to pay for a quota which will cost you between 300 and 500 every week. The more you want to fish, the more you will have to pay. While a deckhand in the 1970s could expect to land the equivalent of 4,000 for a week at sea, in 2019 the financial haul for a local fisherman is substantially less with an average annual wage of around 20,000. For skippers like me, it is the EU bureaucracy and its rules and regulations that kills us, says Graham. Every year they seem to change something, whether its the size of the nets or something else. We cant just be skippers. We have to be computer wizards because the powers-that-be are always introducing some kind of electronic computer log system or some other form of electronic paperwork. The 34-year-old, who fishes with his father John, points to the fact that the Northern Ireland prawn fishing fleet is at its capacity. Even if they increased our prawn quota, we couldnt benefit from it as we already lift as many prawns as we need. My prawn quota last year was 100 tonnes and that is as much as I need. As long as they dont cut our quotas, I am happy. While the majority of UK fishermen are anxious for the UK to leave the EU so that catch quotas can be buried at sea, the young Portavogie skipper is concerned that EU chiefs threat to impose new import tariffs on prawns could potentially sink many of the local fleet. Around 80% of the Northern Irish fleet catch prawns which are then exported to France, Spain, Italy and other parts of Europe, he says. If the EU imposes an import tariff, some predict it could be as much as 12%, it wont be the fish buyers or the processors who will end up paying for it. It will be us, the fishermen. Graham clings to the hope that, even if the existing European market dries up, there could be other global markets which will open up and provide a new income for the lucrative Northern Irish prawn catch. Some say that China is a potential market and that they are interested in our prawns, he says. Who knows what will happen. All I know is that we need some kind of certainty. I have Polish and Latvian deckhands. Ive no idea what will happen to them once Brexit is sorted out, one way or another. Will they be able to work on my boat or not? He remains sceptical that local fishermen will be a priority for the Government in negotiations with their EU counterparts. The only thing I feel certain about is that even though the majority of fishermen voted to leave to regain control of our waters and to do away with the bureaucracy, it is probably not what we will end up with, he says. The fishing industry accounts for a tiny percentage of the UK industry and the politicians dont see us as being important. We fear that whatever happens with Brexit, we will end up at the bottom of the net as usual. However, DAERA has said as part of its Brexit preparations all necessary legislation is in place to ensure the management of the local fishing industry following the UKs departure from the EU. After exit, financial support for the industry under the European Marine and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) will continue and all EMFF projects approved before December 31, 2020 will be fully funded, it says. We want a deal for access, but one thats fair to NI vessels In September 2018, a House of Commons select committee published the report: Brexit and Northern Ireland Fisheries. The document shows that the Northern Ireland fleet had 327 boats in 2016. More than 29,400 tonnes of fish were landed into ports in the UK and abroad by NI registered vessels that year, with an estimated value of 41.6m. In Northern Ireland itself, 19,500 tonnes of fish were landed in local ports with an estimated value of 28.7m. Kilkeel was the largest fishing port in Northern Ireland with a 96-strong fleet; another 50 trawlers were based in Portavogie; 42 sailed from Ardglass while the remaining 139 trawlers were scattered across a series of smaller harbours throughout the region. In 2016, Kilkeel trawlers landed just under one third (32%) of all fish caught by the Northern Ireland fleet. Portavogie boats accounted for just under one quarter (24%) of the overall catch, while Ardglass vessels netted just over one fifth (21%). Only 23% of the total value of fish were landed in the other ports. The industry employed more than 700 full-time fishermen, with a further 175 part-time deckhands. A geographical employment breakdown shows that Kilkeel employed 435 people on its trawlers and Portavogie 255. Another 123 fishermen were based in Ardglass harbour, while the remaining 62 worked in a series of smaller ports across the north including Belfast, Ballycastle, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Larne, Derry, Portaferry, Strangford and Warrenpoint. A further 371 people were employed by 14 fish processing companies which prepared the catch for market. In 2014, the fish processing industry was estimated to have an annual turnover of 84m. The EU is an important export market for the Northern Ireland fishing economy and represents 36% of the total value of its sales. Shellfish accounted for 76% of the fish landed by local trawlers. Dublin Bay Prawns, also known as nephrops, make up almost half of the entire catch (48%), with 72 trawlers fishing exclusively for the species while another 30 boats fish for prawns and other fish species. Herring and mackerel account for 17.5% of the catch with white fish species, haddock and cod, accounting for 6.5%. Currently these fish species are subject to catch limits set by the EU. Shellfish, excluding Dublin Bay Prawns, which are not subject to EU catch limits, are also financially significant to the local fishing fleet. In 2016, scallops and crabs accounted for one fifth (21%) of the total value of fish which were landed by the fleet in Northern Ireland. The Westminster report concluded that, while the UKs decision to exit the EU leaves the local fishing industry facing a series of important challenges, it offers potential opportunities for Northern Irelands fleet. One of the biggest challenges facing the local fleet is a severe shortage of Northern Ireland-born fishermen. The majority of deckhands currently working on local trawlers come from Eastern Europe, mainly Poland, Latvia and Lithuania. A Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) submission to the NI Affairs Committee found that 53% of those employed on local fishing boats come from outside the UK. The Westminster committee was told that 24% of all workers come from within the EU. If, as expected, the UK exits the EU, some skippers are concerned that, if they are banned from employing EU fishermen, their boats will be unable to be put to sea. A sizeable number of those currently employed by the local fishing boats come from the Philippines and Ghana. However, EU restrictions mean they are currently only allowed to work on vessels fishing 12 nautical miles out to sea. Harry Wick accepts that the shortage of locally born deckhands cant be blamed on the EU and that changes in modern society have brought difficulties for those who chose to make their living from the sea. Traditionally, generations of families would fish the same boats. Fathers would hand boats and the fishing life down to their sons. However, thats just no longer the case in this modern age. He estimates that in the 1970s a deckhand working on a local fishing trawler could expect to earn 700 per week. That is the equivalent of 4,000 per week in todays money. Theres no doubt that there was a fantastic living to be made from fishing in the 1970s. Today, with the state the industry is in, it now means a deckhand will earn on average 400 per week throughout the year. However, Mr Wick remains confident that, despite no imminent sign of a post-Brexit agreement on fishing rights, there is still potential for the local fishing fleet to boom after departure from the EU. We want a negotiated deal for access, but one that is fair to UK and NI vessels and not the unfair arrangement we have at the minute. We will be negotiating with the whole of Europe in that regard. There are areas in Irish territory and waters that we would like. There are areas in our waters that they would like access to. But were not going to have 70/30 or 80/20 splits like weve had in the past. 'If we got back half of what we want, it would be a huge boost for local fishermen' Leslie Girvan was a fisherman for 42 years. He first went to sea as a deckhand in 1959 at the age of 16. "The first boat I worked on was the Summer Rose skippered by Frank McDonald. "I had been training as an apprentice chef but when I saw the money my friends were making as deckhands, I decided that fishing was the job for me." While his home port was Kilkeel, Leslie found himself hunting for fish all over the world, often as far away as Reykjavik, Iceland. "In the summer time we would fish for prawns, in spring it was cod and in autumn it was the herring season." At the entrance to Portavogie harbour, a statue bearing the names of 29 local fisherman who lost their lives at sea is a stark reminder that the ocean is a dangerous master. The 75-year-old witnessed at first-hand the very real dangers of making a living from the sea. "In September 1968, I was on a trawler called the Briar on the east side of the Isle of Man. "We were fishing for herring and it was nearing sunset that evening. "There was another trawler travelling behind us. But the sun was in the skipper's eyes and he didn't realise how close he had come to our boat. He rammed straight into us and the Briar went down in a matter of minutes. "Thankfully the crew of the other boat were able to get us on-board their boat just as the Briar was going down. We never even got our feet wet." On two other occasions, trawlers Leslie was fishing on were accidentally rammed by other boats. But while the life of a fisherman was often hard, Leslie reminisces that it provided a good living for those prepared to face the dangers of life at sea. "Deckhands made a very good living in those days. Fishermen were kings back then." By 1974 Leslie had become a skipper of his own boat, Star of Hope. A year later Britain joined the European Union's Common Market. However, the veteran skipper believes it wasn't until the establishment of the Common Fisheries policy and the introduction of catch quotas in the early 1980s that signalled the start of a slow and steady demise of Northern Ireland's fishing industry. "The central plank of the Common Fisheries policy was to allow all European fishermen equal access to our fishing waters and our catch. "But if there is only a certain quota of fish that is allowed to be caught in our waters, how do you allow European fishing boats equal access to those waters? They did this by getting rid of as many of our fishing boats as possible." Leslie believes EU chiefs adopted a deliberate policy to drastically reduce fishing quotas to force local fishermen out of the industry. "They cut the quotas year on year so that we couldn't survive. "In the mid-1990s, they began to offer incentives for local skippers to decommission their boats. "For skippers who were nearing retirement age, who could see quotas getting reduced every year, it was an offer they couldn't refuse and many men took the decision to haul up their nets for good." More than a decade ago, the veteran skipper was one of more than a dozen fishermen fined for breaking EU fish quotas. At the time, the court was told that severe financial hardship caused by European fishing quotas led fishermen to cheat the system. While the Kilkeel captain pleaded guilty to the charges, he insists that he was punished as a warning to others. "Every fisherman in the UK did what we did. The authorities turned a blind eye to it for decades because they knew it was the only way fishermen could survive. "But they decided to make an example of particular fishermen in every part of the UK. In Northern Ireland, it was us." By the time he finally hung up his own oilskins in 2001, Leslie Girvan had up to five fishing boats at sea at any one time. Despite having been retired for many years, he maintains a strong bond with the local fleet and was a strong supporter of the UK's decision to leave the EU. While he remains optimistic that the good times could return if the local fleet regains control of Northern Irish waters, he remains sceptical that fishermen won't be sold down the river for political gain. "Maybe I'm just an old cynic. I'm totally in favour of Brexit, but I don't believe there is anything that fishermen hold dear that the government won't trade away if there is something more important to them. "Be sure one of thing, the fishing industry will be sacrificed, if it comes to that. "I hope we get our waters back. If we got back half of what we want, it would be a huge boost to local fishermen. "But the French are saying there will be no trade deals unless fishing arrangements stay as they are. "Who knows what will happen. "Fishermen just want out. We want our waters back in our own hands." The Detail (www.thedetail.tv) is an investigative news and analysis website dedicated to in-depth reporting of issues of public interest Holborn Assets, a global financial services group based in Dubai, has announced the launch of its new property investment business. The new venture brings a streamlined approach to real estate investment with an end-to-end service unlike others in the market. Established in the UAE for over 20 years, the business has expanded to operate throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. A family owned and operated business, Holborn Assets has over 450 employees worldwide, including 160 financial advisers. With an exclusive range of developments and investment strategies, Holborn Property looks to appeal to not just seasoned investors but also first-time buyers, said a senior official. Andrew Pigott, Operations Head of Holborn Assets Property division said: "Our bespoke service is designed with the client in mind. The properties we offer are carefully selected by our in-house experts to bring exciting investment opportunities to clients in the UK and abroad." "Having a UK based operation that works closely with renowned developers and solicitors means we can offer an unparalleled level of service and due diligence that's what sets us apart from our competitors," he noted. Tareq Samaha, Global Property Sales Manager, said: "House prices in the North West increased faster than anywhere else in the UK last year and projections from Savills suggest this is a trend we can expect to continue." Currently the focus is on property in the North West and the Midlands, two locations which have become increasingly desirable thanks to government investment, continued development and economic growth. Property value in the North West has increased by 4% over 12 months, followed by 2.9% and 1.6% in the West and East Midlands respectively. Thanks to lower initial investments compared to London, a growing number of investors are now turning their attention to the North. Rental yields in the region are some of the best in the country with Manchester at 7% and Liverpool at nearly 10%. CEO Robert Parker said: "The UK remains a very attractive market for investors, especially those offshore who benefit from the weak sterling caused by Brexit uncertainty." "Figures from the Office of National Statistics show that house prices in the North West increased faster than anywhere else in the UK last year. Projections from Savills suggest that this is a trend we can expect to continue," he stated. Holborn Property will also bring clients the opportunity to invest in off-plan property, he added.-TradeArabia News Service Home Secretary Sajid Javid has become the ninth MP to enter the Conservative leadership race after Theresa May announced her plan to resign last week. Mr Javid, who has held a range of ministerial posts since his election as MP for Bromsgrove in 2010, said there was a need to "restore trust, bring unity and create new opportunities across the UK". The 49-year-old, who backed Remain in the referendum but has since positioned himself as a firm Leaver, said: "First and foremost, we must deliver Brexit." Mr Javid became the first Home Secretary from an ethnic minority when he was appointed in April 2018. The son of a Pakistani bus driver from Rochdale, he was a managing director at Deutsche Bank before being elected to Parliament. Announcing his intention to stand in a message on Twitter, Mr Javid said: "We need to restore trust, bring unity and create new opportunities across the UK. First and foremost, we must deliver Brexit. Join @TeamSaj to help me do just that #TeamSaj." Mr Javid joins eight other Tory MPs vying for the top job, including Cabinet colleagues Jeremy Hunt, Rory Stewart, Matt Hancock and Michael Gove. Former Cabinet ministers Andrea Leadsom, Esther McVey, Dominic Raab and Boris Johnson have also thrown their hats into the ring to replace Mrs May. The new Tory leader looks set to take over as prime minister at the end of July after Mrs May finally laid out a timetable for her exit from Downing Street. The timetable for the contest will mean nominations close in the week of June 10, with MPs involved in a series of votes to whittle down the crowded field to two final contenders. Tory Party members will then decide who wins the run-off. Mr Johnson - the former foreign secretary and London mayor - is considered by most as the favourite to win the leadership race. The 54-year-old nearly beat Theresa May to the top job in 2016, until Michael Gove decided to scupper his chances. In a speech in Switzerland on Friday, he was deemed to have vowed to take Britain out of the EU on October 31, "deal or no deal", if he is made PM. Esther McVey, the former work and pensions secretary who quit Mrs May's Cabinet in protest at her Brexit plan has also said that the UK should be prepared to leave the EU without a deal. Former Brexit Secretary Mr Raab told the Mail on Sunday he would prefer to leave the EU with a deal, but said the UK must "calmly demonstrate unflinching resolve to leave in October - at the latest". Foreign Secretary Mr Hunt campaigned for Remain in the 2016 referendum. He battled with doctors as health secretary before his appointment to his current position in July last year, when Mr Johnson quit. Rory Stewart, the new International Development Secretary, has been scathing of Mr Johnson's stance on Brexit, saying no deal would be "a huge mistake, damaging, unnecessary, and I think also dishonest". Health Secretary Matt Hancock has told the BBC that a no-deal Brexit "simply won't be allowed by Parliament" and vowed to take a different approach to try to get Commons support for a Brexit deal than the one Theresa May used. Former leader of the House of Commons Andrea Leadsom said the UK would quit the EU with or without a deal. She has previously described the UK's continued membership of the EU as "disgusting". Environment Secretary Michael Gove is running as a self-styled "unity candidate". His intervention is likely to cause concern to current front-runner Boris Johnson, after a spectacular falling-out between the two former allies in the 2016 leadership contest helped destroy both men's chances of the top job. The Support Soldier F banner that was erected in Lurgan which was removed and burnt One man has been arrested after a banner expressing support for a soldier charged with two murders on Bloody Sunday was burned in Co Armagh in what police are treating as a sectarian hate crime. A number of masked men were pictured after they set fire to the banner - which featured the Parachute Regiment's emblem - in front of a mural encouraging people to "join the IRA" in Lurgan. A poster also uses the letters PSNI to spell out the message: "People Should Not Inform - MI5". DUP MLA Carla Lockhart reported the photographs of those involved to police after they were shared on social media yesterday. They show youths or young men posing in front of an image of a republican gunman. One of the images shows three masked individuals standing in front of the burning banner making obscene hand gestures. A 23-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of a number of offences following the incident in the High Street area of the town. The suspect - who was arrested on suspicion of doing a provocative act, improper use of a public electronic communications network, possession of a class B controlled drug and possession of a class B controlled drug with intent to supply - has been released on bail pending further enquiries. "It's believed this occurred sometime overnight [on Sunday]," Chief Inspector Barney O'Connor said. "This is being treated as a sectarian hate incident at this time." Ms Lockhart said she is "disgusted" that the banner expressing "solidarity with British soldiers" has been burned. "It was brought to my attention this morning and I immediately spoke with the PSNI who have acted quickly and efficiently with an arrest having been made," the Upper Bann representative said. "The British Army served with distinction in Northern Ireland. "Removing this banner is a hate crime and I am pleased that the PSNI are treating it with the seriousness it deserves." Banners and Parachute Regiment flags pledging support for 'Soldier F' have been appearing in loyalist areas all over Northern Ireland following the decision to prosecute him for the murder of two people on Bloody Sunday in the Bogside area of Londonderry in 1972. Soldier F, who is accused of murdering William McKinney and James Wray, has also been charged with the attempted murder of four civil rights protesters on the same day. A number of other veterans also face having to stand trial, including former member of the Life Guards Regiment, Dennis Hutchings (78), for the attempted murder of John Pat Cunningham (27) in 1974. Mr Hutchings denies the charge. Many people, including UK Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt, have expressed concern that veterans are being unfairly targeted by legacy investigations which disproportionately focus on killings by state forces, rather than terrorist organisations. Ms Lockhart appealed for calm as she asked local residents to give police space to carry out their investigation. George Best Belfast City Airport has been ranked as the best in the UK for punctuality in 2018. (Liam McBurney/PA) George Best Belfast City Airport has been ranked as the best in the UK for punctuality in 2018. The newly published statistics reveal that scheduled and chartered departures from Belfast City were delayed by an average of eight minutes, the lowest of 24 major airports in the UK. The Press Association analysis of Civil Aviation Authority data shows that passengers travelling through Belfast International Airport were left waiting almost twice as long. It ranked joint seventh as one of the worst airports for delays, with an average waiting time of 15 minutes. Katy Best, commercial director at the City Airport, said that "being ranked the number one UK airport for punctuality performance is great news for the 2.6m passengers" who use the east Belfast facility each year. "We listen to our customers and work closely with all our partners to ensure a smooth, enjoyable journey through the terminal," she added. Ms Best said a 15m investment in its facilities has also enhanced passenger experience, with an average security processing time of just six minutes. A spokesperson for Belfast International Airport described delays as unfortunate and said staff work hard to avoid them. "With over 60,000 flights per year, Belfast International Airport is one of the UK's top 10 busiest airports. "While delays are unfortunate, we work closely with our airlines and air traffic control colleagues to ensure these delays are kept to a minimum," they said. Flights across all featured airports were delayed by an average of 16 minutes in 2018. London Stansted was the worst UK airport for flight delays last year with an average wait of 25 minutes, which was branded "completely unacceptable" by Rory Boland, editor of consumer magazine Which? Travel. "These delays aren't just an inconvenience but can leave holidaymakers hundreds of pounds out of pocket because of missed connections, transfers and fines for picking up their hire car late," he said. "While compensation is available for delays of over three hours, airlines should stop passing the buck and make it easier for their passengers by finally introducing automatic compensation." The fourth busiest airport in the UK is a hub for a number of low-cost eastern European airlines, as well as being the largest base for Ryanair. Birmingham and London Luton recorded the joint second worst punctuality performance, with aircraft typically taking off 19 minutes behind schedule. Liverpool (John Lennon) was in second place for punctuality (10 minutes), followed by Doncaster Sheffield, Exeter and Bournemouth (12 minutes). A spokesman for London Stansted said Ryanair has committed to a multi-million-pound investment in additional resourcing and equipment to support its ground operation at London Stansted following a "challenging summer" last year, which was helping to deliver "significant" improvements. Trade body the Airport Operators Association (AOA) said delays are caused by a "range of factors" including last year's blast of cold weather due to the Beast from the East and strikes by air traffic controllers in countries such as France and Belgium. Disruption was also blamed on the capacity of UK airspace being constrained. The aviation industry is working with the Department for Transport to modernise the way flights are managed, to improve resilience and boost capacity. Syed Ali was punched by a passenger at the weekend A Belfast taxi driver who was assaulted by a customer has said he now feels afraid to work night shifts. Syed Ali (34) has worked as a driver for fonacab for the last four years having moved here from Pakistan 11 years ago. He said a customer punched him hard in the right eye when he picked up the fare outside a bar on Botanic Avenue at around 1.15am on Sunday. The PSNI is investigating the incident and said one man was cautioned for common assault and enquiries are ongoing. "I feel like I don't want to go out as a taxi driver at night ever again, I'm afraid to work," Mr Ali told the Belfast Telegraph. He said he had encountered disrespectful passengers on other occasions but had never feared for his safety before. "People have been aggressive to me before in the past, and racist, asking me why I'm in this country, but this was the first time I've ever been attacked," he added. Mr Ali said the passenger, who was in his 20s, became aggressive when asked for his address. "He got in the passenger side and asked to go to west Belfast," said Mr Ali. "He gave me a street name but I didn't know where that was so I asked him for a postcode for my sat-nav. "He started arguing, telling me I was a taxi driver and should know where to go. "He was shouting at me and drunk, it was very aggressive so I asked him to leave the car. "Then he punched me in my right eye. "The bouncer from the bar was watching everything, he opened the door grabbed him and took him away from my car." The Ambulance Service said an emergency crew was dispatched to the incident at around 1.30am. The casualty was assessed at the scene but did not need to go to hospital, it added. With blurred vision and bruising to his eye, Mr Ali was advised not to finish his shift. "It's a bank holiday weekend, which is very busy, so I missed out on the rest of my shift last night and I'm not working today either so that's a lot of lost earnings," he said yesterday. Mr Ali said his manager at fonacab had since called him to offer his support. A fonacab spokesman said the firm was conducting an investigation into the incident. "We hold the safety of our drivers and passengers in the highest regard," he said. "Thankfully incidents like this are rare. However we provide comprehensive training and equipment to ensure that should they occur we are best positioned to deal with it" Each driver is equipped with a panic alert facility, should the driver need it while working. "This along with advanced GPS and in car communications allows us to quickly identify which driver needs help and where the incident has taken place and if required implement an escalation process which can include police involvement," he said. "Our driver support teams operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year so there is no time when a working driver is left without back up. These teams include administrators, technical and operational support, supervisors and customer service staff. In addition, we have a comprehensive HR function which can help with professional counselling and guidance should a driver need it in incidents such as this." A dog has had to be put down after being found with severe injuries in the Newry area on Tuesday afternoon. Police confirmed that the dog had to be put down after being found in the Pound Road area around 6.10pm on Tuesday. Reports on social media claim that the dog (pictured) may have been the victim of an acid attack. It was found injured by a woman who contacted the local dog warden. The woman stated that the dog was covered in burns and cuts. "People don't deserve to have dogs! Poor pet afraid of its life. Breaks my heart," the woman wrote on social media. "The dog was blind in one eye and had a hole in her back leg, she was in pain, the poor pet." The dog was then taken to a local vet, but police said that it had to be euthanized "due to the severity of its injuries". Social media suggest that the dog was a family pet and its name was "Patch". Inspector McCullough said that enquiries were ongoing in relation to the incident. The sister of murdered journalist Lyra McKee has made an impassioned plea to her killer to hand himself in to the police - and vowed to support him if he did. Nichola Corner was addressing a crowd of hundreds gathered in Guildhall Square in Londonderry, where Snow Patrol frontman Gary Lightbody sang at the end of a three day hike from Belfast in memory of Ms McKee. Ms Corner said: "I speak directly to the person who killed my sister, I encourage you, whoever you are, to listen to me, not just with your ears but with your heart and your soul. "It is my belief that when you went out on the 18th of April, you did not intend to turn yourself into a killer. "Yet the events as they developed led to that becoming your reality. "You are now a killer, you are now the person who killed Lyra McKee and you cannot take that back. "I am making no assumptions and I don't claim to be able to think as you think. "It is my belief, it is my truth but if my thinking is correct, then I would expect that the grief and the nightmarish existence that we have been living since the 18th of April is mirrored by your guilt of robbing the world of our talented, inspirational and loving young sister with her whole life ahead of her. "Believe it or not, I want to help you. "In the name of my sister, I offer to support you in the difficult task of coming forward and accepting responsibility for your actions. "I know that isn't going to be easy, it certainly isn't going to be easy for me - but I am prepared to be there as you hand yourself in. "I promise you I will meet you at any police station anywhere in this island to support you in taking the brave step of handing yourself in and allowing my sister the justice she deserves. "It is my hope that you need relief from your guilt. I know it won't be easy and that is why I am reaching out to you because sometimes the right thing is the most difficult." Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Snow Patrols Gary Lightbody on stage at the Guildhall PA Snow Patrols Gary Lightbody with Lyras partner Sara Canning PA Hundreds gather at the Guildhall in Londonderry at the end of their three-day peace walk from Belfast in memory of Lyra McKee Lyra McKee PA Father Joe Gormley who performed the last rites to Lyra the night she died Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press E Hundreds gather at the Guildhall in Londonderry at the end of their three-day peace walk from Belfast in memory of Lyra McKee Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press E / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Snow Patrols Gary Lightbody on stage at the Guildhall Ms Corner also thanked the 160 people from the Creggan area of Derry who have so far contacted the PSNI to give them information about the night that Ms McKee was shot by the New IRA. The theme of Ms Corner's speech and of the walk organised by a group of Ms McKee's Belfast friends was "failure is not an option". Among them was Seimi Mac Aindreasa, who said it was now up to the politicians to deliver on the promises of the Good Friday Agreement 21 years ago. He said: "The walk was about difficult conversations and it took a lot of difficult conversations to set up the Good Friday Agreement before they sold it to us. They (politicians) had a lot of difficult conversations before they sold it to us as well, but they did and now they have to follow up on that. "For us, the achievement is that Lyra's family realised what we were doing was coming from a good place. "We are now handing it back to the politicians. "They handed it to us 21 years ago and told them then, we agree with you, away you go and now again we are saying to the politicians, do it now." Gary Lightbody joined the walkers for the final leg of the journey into Derry at the invitation of Ms McKee's family. He said: "It was extraordinary to see the people who had walked the whole way from Belfast. "The positivity of people gathering together so that people can be who they want to be, love who they want to love and live in peace and prosperity for all of our kids, our nieces and nephews because they are the future." Jim Allister with the three MEPs, Sinn Feins Martina Anderson, Alliances Naomi Long and the DUPs Diane Dodds It was billed as a three-way battle for the third seat on the plane to Brussels, but it quickly became a foregone conclusion. Expected front runners Martina Anderson (Sinn Fein) and Diane Dodds (DUP) polled as well as expected from the outset, but within an hour of the 8am count starting in Magherafelt it was clear another story was emerging. Pile after pile of votes were allocated to Naomi Long and the eyebrows of even the most hardened election pundit, who may already have had the Alliance Party leader doing enough to take the third seat from the Ulster Unionists, were starting to rise at the scale of the achievement. Alliance veteran and former leader David Ford stood quietly and watched, his smile growing wider with each pile of ballot papers moving in Mrs Long's direction. Even at that early stage Mr Ford could sense something momentous was happening on the political scene. "It's a sign of what we've seen in both European and council elections across the UK," he said early in the day. "People are voting for parties which have a definite policy on Europe. "We've been building momentum these last few years with solid results across Northern Ireland." "We're having another good day so far and we'll have a good evening too. "I'm smiling quite a lot." A nod of acknowledgment from DUP MP Sir Jeffrey Donaldson signified that the race for the third seat was almost over before it had begun. "In fairness to the Alliance Party, they have a clear message and have done well," he said. Very quickly, a first preference vote of over 100,000 looked inevitable, and so it proved. Where there are winners, so there are losers, and the biggest on the day was the Ulster Unionist Party as veteran Danny Kennedy was swept away by the Alliance surge. He was the first of the big guns to fall, in just the second count, as his bid to replace long-standing party MEP Jim Nicholson fell flat. As he conceded it had been a disappointing day, the result appearing to herald the end of Mr Kennedy's political career. "It's fair to say my days as an elected representative seem to be numbered," he admitted. Dignified in defeat at the polls, party leader Robin Swann remained defiant that no obituaries should be written for his party yet. "The Ulster Unionist Party isn't going away," he insisted. "We know that narrative is already being put out there, but we're here to stay for a lot more elections to come." SDLP leader Colum Eastwood hung in a bit longer, remaining low-key, although the writing was on the wall from near the outset. "If unionist votes weren't going to the UUP, they weren't going to go to us," he admitted. In the end no one was going to get close to ruining Mrs Long's day and the expected three-way battle for the third seat became a one-horse race as two of the contenders barely got out of the starting gate. While DUP leader Arlene Foster's wish for two unionist seats to be delivered didn't materialise, she still made the point that not much has changed. "The UUP's Jim Nicholson voted as a Remainer so in that respect we still have two Remainers and one Leave in Europe," she said. The problem for unionism, however, is that the Remainer in question now is the Alliance Party leader. Sinn Fein and the DUP will both claim victories, one topping the poll and one first to be deemed elected, but the real winner on the day was a triumphant Naomi Long. Two men robbed the office of a commercial premises in Portadown on Monday night. The incident took place in the Lurgan Road area around 9.40pm. Police received a report that two men entered the premises, one armed with a claw hammer and one armed with a knife. The men entered the office and demanded the employees hand over the contents of a safe and the tills. The men made off with a sum of cash. There were no reports of any injuries, but Detective Inspector McCamley said "this must have been a frightening ordeal for staff who were simply doing their job in their place of work". "I want to appeal to anyone who has information about this incident, or who saw two males matching the description of the suspects in the area at around 9.35 pm 9.45 pm to call us on 101, quoting reference number 1799 of 27/05/19," he said. "Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime." Bahri, a global leader in logistics and transportation, has highlighted the benefits of an inclusive workforce bringing to focus the under-representation of women in in the maritime sector at a major conference in London. Highlighting its commitment to continue playing a role in promoting a diverse and inclusive maritime sector, Bahri participated in the 13th Annual Maritime HR Conference in London. The companys chief support officer Hisham Alkhaldi was invited as a guest speaker at the largest worldwide gathering of maritime HR professionals. Held at Leonardo Royal Hotel in London from May 9 and 10, the annual event discussed key issues facing HR teams in the maritime industry and brought together regulators, industry-renowned speakers, business leaders, and nearly 200 delegates representing shipowners, ship managers, oil companies, and other maritime employers such as classification societies and P&I clubs. Speaking on the Diversity and Inclusion in The Maritime Industry panel at the conference, Alkhaldi put a spotlight on the under-representation of women in the workplace across industries, particularly in the maritime sector. Highlighting that only 2 percent of seafarers worldwide are women and less than 1 percent occupy leadership roles in the industry, he said that it has become imperative for various stakeholders in the maritime industry to step up both concerted and individual efforts to address these challenges effectively and swiftly. Alkhaldi commented: As a result of constant and deliberate efforts to raise awareness about the importance and benefits of gender balance in the workplace, policymakers and businesses in the maritime industry increasingly identify equal opportunities as a top priority today. Promoting womens participation at work is critical not only for accelerating economic growth and sustainable development but also driving stronger bottom-line results for businesses. Similarly, a diverse workforce will lead to higher productivity and customer loyalty, and catalyze innovation, leveraging the perspectives and experiences of employees of different nationalities, and ethnicities. As an employee-centric organization, Bahri has incorporated diversity and inclusion in its human resources policies and processes. Alkhaldi also shed light on Bahris initiatives aimed at embracing diversity and inclusion across all aspects of its business. The global logistics and transportation leader has been striving to boost the participation of women in its operations, which reached 18% this year. The company has also teamed up with universities to develop programs that will help introduce students to the maritime sector and its services. At the heart of Bahris diverse and inclusive workforce is its Talent Management Framework, which provides a clear direction for strategically attracting, sourcing, managing, developing, and retaining talents in the company. The framework was recently named the Best Recruitment & Talent Management Strategy at the inaugural CIPD Middle East People Conference & Awards. The company had also won the Best Talent Development Strategy category at the Future Workplace Awards 2018. TradeArabia News Service Michael Gallagher, whose son Aidan died in the 1998 Omagh bomb. A public inquiry into the Omagh bombing is needed to learn lessons from any failures in the state's system for protecting against terrorist threat, the High Court has heard. Counsel for the father of one of the victims also claimed such a probe was required to establish whether the atrocity could have been thwarted. Michael Gallagher's son Aiden was among 29 people, including a woman pregnant with twins, killed in the August 1998 Real IRA attack. Mr Gallagher is challenging the British Government's refusal to hold a public inquiry into the outrage. The case centres on claims that a range of intelligence from British security agents, MI5 and RUC officers could have been drawn together to prevent the bombing. Hugh Southey QC, for Mr Gallagher, told the court the efficiency of measures put in place to protect life needs to be investigated. "It's clear in August 1998 there was a known risk to the people of Northern Ireland from dissident republicans," he said. Expand Close Julie Hughes, aged 21 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Julie Hughes, aged 21 "What is now alleged at the heart of this case is that the system (to address that risk) didn't operate as efficiently or effectively as it should have done. "That's why Article 2 (of the European Convention on Human Rights) requires an investigation. "If that system was not as efficient as it should have been there's a need to learn lessons." 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 Breda Devine, 20 months Esther Gibson Spaniard Gonzalo Cavedo poses with a child on his shoulders beside the car carrying the bomb that seconds later killed 29 people, including the photographer Elizabeth Rush Olive Hawkes, aged 60 Julie Hughes, aged 21 Ann McCombe, aged 45 Mary Grimes, aged 65 Aiden Gallagher, aged 21 The bomb attack was the worst ever atrocity of Northern Ireland's decades of violence. Brian McCrory, left, aged 54 Samantha McFarland, aged 17 Philomena Skelton, aged 39 Jolene Marlow, aged 17 The scene of the Omagh Bomb Brenda Logue, aged 17 Alan Radford, aged 16 Bryan White, aged 27 Oran Doherty Lorraine Wilson Fred White Veda Short Geraldine Breslin Deborah-Ann Cartwright The scene of devastation in Omagh Town centre where upto 25 people have been killed in this afternoons blast. PACEMAKER BELFAST 15/08/98 Gareth Conway, Omagh bomb victim James Baker, Omagh bomb victim Scene of the Omagh bomb atrocity 1998 PA Archive/Press Association Images Cathy and Michael Gallagher, the sister and father of Omagh bomb victim, Aiden Gallagher. Man United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has a chat with Claire Gallagher, who lost her sight in the Omagh bomb, before a friendly against Omagh Town in aid of the Omagh Bomb Fund. The happy couple Ryan and Claire Bowse on their wedding day, nine years after Claire lost her sight due to injuries suffered in the Omagh bombing The damage caused by the bomb explosion in Market Street, Omagh, 1998 Donna Marie McGillion, who was seriously injured in the Omagh bombing The secret email which shows intelligence bosses knew that Omagh was a prime target for a terrorist attack weeks before the car bomb that devastated the town Claire Radford, whose brother Alan was killed in the Omagh bomb, examines a new stained-glass window in the town's library with her daughter Mia. Michael Gallagher whose son Aiden, 21, was killed in the Omagh bomb attack Pic Paul Faith PA Michael Gallagher (right), whose son Aiden, 21, was killed in the Omagh bomb attack with Stanley McCombe who lost his wife Ann Pic Paul Faith PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Breda Devine, 20 months Mr Gallagher launched his legal action after former Northern Ireland Secretary of State Theresa Villiers rejected calls for a public investigation back in September 2013. She decided instead that a probe by Police Ombudsman Michael Maguire was the best way to address any outstanding issues surrounding the outrage. In October 2014 Dr Maguire published a report where he found RUC Special Branch withheld some intelligence information from detectives hunting the bombers. Expand Close Elizabeth Rush / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Elizabeth Rush No one has ever been convicted of carrying out the attack. The challenge had been delayed due to issues over holding partially closed hearings to protect national security. As the public hearing resumed, Mr Southey pointed to the views of a former Ombudsman, Baroness Nuala O'Loan, that the bombing could have been prevented. Expand Close Mary Grimes, aged 65 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Mary Grimes, aged 65 He told Mr Justice Horner that Special Branch officers were reluctant to cooperate with a previous probe, and claimed failures in how they dealt with David Rupert, the FBI spy who infiltrated dissident republican ranks. "There are real questions about whether or not they should have responded differently," counsel said. "On the face of the open material Mr Rupert's handlers appeared to do nothing with this intelligence." The case continues. Staff trying to work out passenger numbers and who was onboard A weekend flight to Belfast was grounded for almost two hours and didn't take off until midnight because flight staff couldn't work out the number of passengers on board, it has been claimed. Around 100 people were on the late night Ryanair flight from London Stansted Airport on Sunday and were left stranded on the tarmac as staff tried to confirm how many passengers were on the aircraft. Despite several aircrew coming on the plane and checking boarding passes on three occasions before take-off, passengers claim it soon became clear that they couldn't account for all those who were due to fly. At one stage, it's understood that flight crew resorted to reading out names to check which passengers were on board one of the last flights out of the UK's third busiest airport. The problem began after the aircraft appeared to be fully boarded at around 10pm. The Ryanair flight was due to fly to Belfast International at 10.10pm. The wheels finally went up at midnight, however, there was considerable frustration among many of the passengers on board. One disappointed Ryanair customer told the Belfast Telegraph yesterday that he witnessed "chaotic scenes". "This was the last flight out of Stansted to Belfast so everyone was keen to get home as quickly as possible," he said. "It looked as though there were two people on the flight who couldn't be accounted for. "The flight attendants kept telling us that legally they couldn't take off until they had the correct number of passengers. "They came around and checked everyone's details three times. At one point 10 airport staff were in and out of the plane trying to verify passenger details. "There was a lot of frustration on board amongst passengers and a few raised voices so it was quite tense at times as we couldn't see an end in sight. "We did receive a verbal apology from the crew when we eventually got to take off and on landing in Belfast at 1.20am instead of 11.30pm," he added. "We were advised about the refund process if people wanted to explore that option. There was general discontent amongst the passengers particularly as public transport to and from the airport had finished by then." Ryanair was contacted for a comment but had not responded at the time of going to print. The partner of slain journalist Lyra McKee walked out of a heated panel discussion after a former IRA prisoner said that dissident republican group Saoradh should have been invited. Saoradh is the political wing of the New IRA, which shot Ms McKee dead. Michael Culbert, director of republican ex-prisoner support body Coiste Na nIarchimi, was speaking during the 'Having Difficult Conversations' event at the Glor Dhun Geimhin Centre in Dungiven, which was held as part of Lyra's Walk. Speaking to the audience - which included Lyra's sister Nichola Corner and partner Sara Canning - Mr Culbert, who served 15 years in the Maze Prison for the murder of a policeman, said he felt that Saoradh should have been invited to take part. Mr Culbert said he had "no regrets" and "asked for no one's forgiveness" for his past actions. "Personally I would have loved them (Saoradh) to have been here for me to have been able to put my logic and my view on what they are doing," he said. "They are the difficult conversations to have. To get these people to explain what they are doing and what their strategy is." Lyra's partner Sara Canning walked out of the room with three friends as Mr Culbert spoke. They returned 10 minutes later when the PUP's William Ennis, a friend of Ms McKee, challenged Mr Culbert. "Could it be that the reason young people in Creggan and arguably elsewhere feel the benefit of taking up guns (is) because at panel events people arrive who were involved in the past conflict and spend most of their dialogue trying to brag about their legitimacy?" he asked. Mr Ennis' remarks were met with loud clapping from Ms Canning and Ms McKee's friends. Ms Corner spoke from the audience to conclude the evening, thanking those who were "brave enough to listen to these difficult conversations". "There has been a lot of difficult conversations here this evening and a lot of difficult stories shared," she said. "But I know that Lyra would have respected every single one of those stories. She may not have agreed with what everyone had to say but she certainly would have respected everyone's view." Leo Varadkar speaks with the media as he arrives for an EU summit at the Europa building in Brussels (Riccardo Pareggiani/AP) The result of the European election in Northern Ireland has been heard in Brussels and must be heard in London, the Taoiseach has said. Irish leader Leo Varadkar described the election of two Remain candidates to one Brexiteer as really significant. Mr Varadkar highlighted that those two candidates Sinn Feins Martina Anderson and the cross-community Alliance Partys Naomi Long also supported the Withdrawal Agreements Irish border backstop. The DUPs Diane Dodds, a Brexiteer and critic of the backstop, was the other candidate elected. The Taoiseach commented on the outcome of the vote north of the border as he attended a European Council meeting of EU leaders in Brussels. What I think is really significant, and I hope this has been noticed in Britain, is the result of the European elections in Northern Ireland, where for 40 years there have been two unionists and one nationalist, Mr Varadkar said. That is no longer the case. There is one unionist, one Alliance Party MEP and one nationalist. So - we did it!!! I topped the poll. We sent a message back to Europe that the DUP does not speak for us, and that we do not want Brexit! THANK YOU to each and every person who put a '1' or '2' beside my name. I will work hard for you! pic.twitter.com/Rt3zsfDRTg Martina Anderson Sinn Fein (@M_AndersonSF) May 27, 2019 So, two out of the three of the MEPs elected in Northern Ireland supporting the European Union and supporting the backstop and I hope that hasnt been missed as a fact by the British government and the wider British people. He added: Two out of three support Northern Ireland remaining in the European Union, two out of three support the backstop, I have heard that message I hope the British government and British people have heard that message too, because it has been heard here in Brussels. Mr Varadkar reiterated his concerns that events in London with the Conservative Party leadership contest had increased the risk of a no-deal Brexit I think there is a growing risk of no deal, he said. As I said a few days ago there is the possibility that the new British prime minister may try to repudiate the Withdrawal Agreement. There is also the possibility of course that there may be a new British government that might follow a different course, a more European course. I cant predict either of those things. But what I can say is the European Union and Ireland will stand firm in our position that there cant be a hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland and we need a legal treaty guarantee of that. Well-known Northern Ireland chef Derek Patterson has died suddenly. Mr Patterson, a leading figure in Northern Ireland's hospitality industry, was found dead on Tuesday afternoon. Aside from his work as a chef, the 53-year-old was the part-owner of the Plough Group of restaurants which includes The Plough Inn, Simply Seafood and The Tannery. Read More Mr Patterson worked alongside his two brothers, William and Richard, in the family business which had been founded by their parents. He is survived by his wife Pamela and their four children. Chief Executive of Hospitality Ulster Colin Neil said that Mr Patterson's death was "awfully sad news". "Our thoughts and prayers of everyone at Hospitality Ulster and the entire hospitality sector are with his family at this difficult time," he said. "Derek was a well know and liked member of the Hospitality Industry and will be sadly missed by all." Police confirmed that they were investigating the sudden death of a man in the St John's Road area of Hillsborough on Tuesday afternoon. Expand Close Former First Minister Peter Robinson with Derek Patterson. Pic William Cherry/Presseye Photo-William Cherry/Presseye / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Former First Minister Peter Robinson with Derek Patterson. Pic William Cherry/Presseye A post mortem examination is due to be carried out to establish the cause of death. "At this time the death is not being treated as suspicious," a PSNI spokesperson said. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has called on the UK government to recognise support in Northern Ireland for the backstop and remaining in the European Union. Mr Varadkar was speaking after Northern Ireland returned two remain-supporting MEPs in Monday's European election. However, DUP leader Arlene Foster said that the current withdrawal agreement must be addressed and that compromise is the way forward. Alliance Party leader Naomi Long joined fellow Remainer, Sinn Fein's Martina Anderson, and Brexit-supporting DUP MEP Diane Dodds in Brussels in a historic result. Mrs Long called for a People's Vote to be held on Brexit following her election. Prior to the election Northern Ireland had two Brexit-supporting MEPs in Mrs Dodds and the UUP's Jim Nicholson, who retired prior to last week's vote. UUP candidate Danny Kennedy failed to retain the seat. While the UUP had initially backed Remain in the EU Referendum, following the result the party said that the democratic will of the people must be delivered. Expand Close Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar arrives for an EU summit in Brussels. (John Thys, Pool Photo via AP) AP / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar arrives for an EU summit in Brussels. (John Thys, Pool Photo via AP) Read More The Taoiseach said that he hoped the results of the EU election would be recognised in Westminster. "What I think is really significant, and I hope this has been noticed in Britain, is the result of the European elections in Northern Ireland, where for 40 years there have been two unionists and one nationalist," Mr Varadkar said. "That is no longer the case. There is one unionist, one Alliance Party MEP and one nationalist. "So, two out of the three MEPs elected in Northern Ireland are supporting the European Union and supporting the backstop and I hope that hasn't been missed as a fact by the British government and the wiser British people." In response to the Taoiseach's comments DUP leader Arlene Foster said that it was time he realised that the best way forward was to "address the flaws in the withdrawal agreement". "Compromise should not be seen as weakness. It was a UK question, respect the referendum," Mrs Foster said. "Northern Ireland had two 'Remain' MEPs before the election too." Mr Varadkar also expressed concern that the resignation of Theresa May as Conservative leader and Prime Minister could increase the risk of the UK choosing a no-deal Brexit. He said that there was a possibility that the new Prime Minister could try and revoke the withdrawal agreement. A number of Brexiteers are in the running to replace Mrs May as party leader. The Taoiseach addressed the media ahead of an EU Summit of European leaders in Brussels. "There is growing risk of no deal. There is of course a possibility that there may be a new British government that might follow a different course, a more European course, I can't predict either of those things," Mr Varadkar said. "But what I can say is the European Union and Ireland will stand firm in our position that there can't be a hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland and we need a legal Treaty guarantee of that." The Alliance Party has had its best ever result after leader Naomi Long's stunning success in the European election. The DUP's Diane Dodds and Sinn Fein's Martina Anderson easily reclaimed their seats, but few expected the Alliance surge to be so emphatic. And it was a disastrous day for the Ulster Unionists, who are without a seat in Brussels for the first time in decades. It also means there are three female MEPs for Northern Ireland for the first time. Mrs Long's remarkable performance saw her party soar to 105,928 first preference votes, sending it to Brussels for the first time. After transfers, Mrs Long collected 170,370 votes - around 115,000 more than her party received in the 2014 European election. Some 57% of local voters backed Remain candidates. Check out full the results and transfers - plus Election Hub for latest updates and analysis Mrs Dodds, who was elected first after the third count, won 155,422 votes following transfers after the surprisingly early elimination of the UUP's Danny Kennedy, while Mrs Long and Ms Anderson - who received the most first preferences - were elected on the fifth count. Ms Anderson won a total of 152,436 votes - 9,324 more than the quota required to be elected. Read More Mrs Long's vote was more than 27,000 above the quota of 143,112. On first preference votes alone, the Alliance Party polled twice as many as the Ulster Unionists, who were on 53,052. Mrs Long said she was "pretty emotional" after the party's performance went well beyond her expectations. "I was really clear when I went out campaigning what I wanted the vote to stand for: it's a vote to Remain," she said. "The people who voted for me came together from right across the community to send a message. That message is: 'We want to remain in the EU'. "I am really delighted. I am thrilled. I take it really seriously and I will serve them to the absolute best of my ability, they have my word on that." Mrs Long said the pro-Remain vote across the UK was the strongest it had been for years and expressed confidence Brexit could be stopped. "I fully intend to make this a five-year term of office," she said. Mrs Long said she intends to stand down as an MLA due to the workload involved in being both an MLA and MEP. "There is no way I would try to juggle both," she said. Expand Expand Previous Next Close The DUPs Diane Dodds attends the count in Magherafelt with her husband Nigel Sinn Fein MEP Martina Anderson is joined by Michelle ONeill / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The DUPs Diane Dodds attends the count in Magherafelt with her husband Nigel A new MLA will be selected from within Alliance to replace her in East Belfast. Mrs Dodds, the first elected in the Magherafelt count, said the result reinforces the DUP as the "dominant force in unionism". "It's a delight to be elected as the first MEP in Northern Ireland," she said, pledging to honour the Leave result of the 2016 referendum. Congratulating Mrs Dodds on her re-election, DUP leader Arlene Foster admitted she would have preferred another unionist candidate to have been successful as well. "What we have instead is a nationalist MEP, a very strong unionist MEP and an MEP who identifies as neither," she said. "When I look at the votes I notice that unionism is still ahead by over 40,000 and of course I am very pleased about that. "Obviously we would have preferred two unionist candidates returned but I am absolutely delighted with our turnout again today and the fact that our vote has increased again." Ms Anderson lost almost 33,000 first preference votes for Sinn Fein since 2014, but said she was happy with her result, putting her drop down to tactical voting by her supporters. "I've had republicans coming up to me and telling me: 'Look, you're safe and therefore we're going to vote tactically'," she said. "But the people of the north have sent a powerful message that they reject Bexit just as they did in the 2016 referendum." SDLP leader Colum Eastwood, who had been hoping to win back a seat former leader John Hume held for 25 years, notched up 78,589 first preferences but was eliminated after the fourth count. UUP candidate Mr Kennedy was sixth in the first preferences, behind the leader of the Traditional Unionist Voice party Jim Allister, who received 62,021 votes. Labour and the Conservatives' Brexit policies were dealt a hammer blow by voters in a terrible night for both parties in the European elections. The Brexit Party and the Liberal Democrats triumphed, but the scale of disaster for the main parties was laid bare as the final UK results were announced. The Tories secured just 9.1% of the vote - their worst ever national election share - while Labour finished on 14.1%, with voters split between the clear Brexit alternatives offered by Nigel Farage's new party and the pro-EU Liberal Democrats. Just four Conservatives were elected in England, Scotland and Wales, while the Brexit Party had 29 seats, overtaking the 24 MEPs that Mr Farage's former party Ukip sent to the European Parliament in 2014. The Lib Dems, reduced to just a single MEP in 2014, were on 16 after their best ever European results. Labour had 10, halved from 20, the Greens - who also enjoyed a boost from pro-EU voters - were on seven, up from three in 2014. It was the first time the Green Party finished above the Conservatives in a national election. Voter turnout was the second highest for an EU election, but still low at 36.7%. Prime Minister Theresa May said that it was a "very disappointing night" for the Conservatives. "It shows the importance of finding a Brexit deal, and I sincerely hope these results focus minds in Parliament." First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the result for the SNP, which won three seats, was "historic", adding: "Scotland has spoken - we are not for Brexit." Mr Farage said he was getting ready to fight a general election, warning that his Brexit Party could "stun everybody" if Britain had not left the EU by the next national contest. "We're not just here to leave the European Union but to try and fundamentally change the shape of British politics, bring it into the 21st century and get a Parliament that better reflects the country," he said. Divisions in Labour were laid bare following the results, with Sir Keir Starmer, Emily Thornberry and Tom Watson calling for the party to rethink its position - but Jeremy Corbyn said a general election remained his priority. "The priority at the moment, I think, is for this Government to call for a general election and actually have a general election so we can decide the future," Mr Corbyn told reporters. However shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir said the "only way to break the Brexit impasse" was to "go back to the public with a choice between a credible leave option and remain". In a sign of how embarrassing the results were for Labour, the Lib Dems topped the poll in Islington, in north London - where both Mr Corbyn and Ms Thornberry are MPs. Foreign Secretary and Tory leadership hopeful Jeremy Hunt said the dire results for the Conservatives meant the party faced an "existential risk" unless it delivered Brexit. Home Secretary Sajid Javid, another potential leadership contender, said the "hugely disappointing" results were a "clear lesson" that the public wants the Government to get on with delivering Brexit. Emirates SkyCargo, the freight division of Emirates, for the second year in a row is partnering with Gargash, one of the largest distributors of premium and luxury cars in the UAE, to transport cars for the Gumball 3000 motor rally, an annual celebrity event that raises money for charity. The partnership agreement was signed by Nabil Sultan, divisional senior vice president, Emirates SkyCargo and Shehab Gargash, managing director and Group CEO, Gargash Group. Emirates SkyCargo is set to transport four Mercedes Benz AMG GT63 4 Door cars from Dubai to the Gumball rally and back. The cars will travel on a Boeing 777 freighter from Dubai World Central. Emirates SkyCargos Boeing 777 freighter aircraft can carry cargo up to 100 tonnes and are capable of accommodating wide or oversized cargo thanks to wide main deck doors. Nabil Sultan, divisional senior vice president, Emirates SkyCargo, said: This is the second year that we are working with Gargash to transport cars for the Gumball 3000 rally. We had a successful collaboration last year which helped us showcase Emirates Wheels, our specialised product for transporting automobiles, to a large audience in the UAE as well as the rest of the world. We look forward to offering our First Class treatment to the Team Gargash cars participating in this years rally, he added. Shehab Gargash, managing director and group CEO, Gargash Group, said: We are proud to be working once again with Emirates. Two Pioneering UAE companies are collaborating to make the extra-ordinary happen this year, and automobile enthusiasts heads will turn around the world. Emirates SkyCargo regularly transports high value and unique automobiles on both its passenger and freighter aircraft across a global network spanning six continents. The transportation of the vehicles is managed under Emirates Wheels which brings together Emirates SkyCargos state of the art infrastructure and expertise, including trained and experienced staff to manage the loading and unloading of the cars from the aircraft. During the last financial year, Emirates SkyCargo transported more than 1,050 luxury cars through Emirates Wheels, it stated. TradeArabia News Service Only three weeks ago, I wrote, there's something about Naomi, and the EU elections have certainly proved that. Naomi Long is a tenacious advocate for liberalism and the middle ground. Northern Ireland voters seem to like the cut of her jib. The Alliance EU campaign, like the local government one, was a continuation of the presidential-style investment in the cult of their leader. And it works. In particular, for those tens of thousands of pro-European unionist voters who were all but abandoned by the mainstream unionist parties, who saw a new political home provided by Naomi and Alliance. Naomi's performance means she could be in co-pole position with Claire Hanna of the SDLP to take a Westminster seat from the DUP - but with the caveat that she can't hog all her party's opportunities. But May 27 is like having a second birthday and only a curmudgeon wouldn't wish her well. So Northern Ireland now has three female MEPs, but with the exception that two of the three MEPs are now solidly pro-European. Under the current demographics, the expectation of two nationalist pro-European parties going to Brussels was too big an ask. Northern Ireland isn't quite ready for that amount of change. The DUP have now played runner-up to Sinn Fein in a third European election - though the margin is by much less. The DUP, TUV and Ukip have lost tens of thousands of votes since the last EU elections. Diane Dodds remains the DUP standard-bearer, solid and dependable, though the voting highs of both Ian Paisley and Jim Allister are now well beyond her reach. Dodds can be content with being the first to hit the quota on transfers. However, the big losers are the Ulster Unionists - neither fish nor fowl under the leadership of the hapless, but nice Robin Swann, the party have finally plummeted to new lows. Swann has not cut any clear path for his party. His instincts to do the right thing are often undermined by his near-hypnotic behaviour to ape the DUP. The party need a new leader - a Nesbitt-type leader who understands pluralism and appeals to younger voters. Robin Swann is the political equivalent of Coronation Street's Norris Cole. Danny Kennedy was placed in an impossible position, as a border unionist who supported Remain, but had to defend the ridiculous pro-Brexit position of his party grandees. The SDLP campaign team will be disappointed by the strong performance of Naomi Long, but should not be too despondent. Colum Eastwood (right) ran a positive and energetic campaign - the best the SDLP have had in years. The SDLP percentage of the vote increased from the local government elections and the wider voter haemorrhaging seems to have been cauterised. There was also clear evidence that Sinn Fein opted for a deliberate tactical policy of encouraging transfers to Alliance over the SDLP as a way of limiting any surge in the nationalist vote - a first for Sinn Fein since 1979. The SDLP leader has proven his party isn't going away and, unlike Robin Swann, his voter base is not deserting him. Martina Anderson, the Sinn Fein MEP, has given a solid performance for her party against a calamitous election in the Republic of Ireland. That said, the Sinn Fein EU vote is down by 3.3% in Northern Ireland from the last EU election, which in voting terms is just under a whopping 33,000 voters who have either stayed at home, or opted for an alternative. No party can seriously have a strategy which purposefully reduces their share of the vote. Anderson is, though, comfortably ahead of Dodds in topping the poll. The DUP versus Sinn Fein tussle is a long way off the gladiatorial contests between the DUP's Ian Paisley and the SDLP's John Hume, who in their last outing against each other got a staggering 192,000 and 190,000 first preference votes respectively. That Sinn Fein dropped over three percentage points in Northern Ireland is significant, because they appeared to have nationalist voters in a semi-permanent electoral lockdown since 2001. Sinn Fein are at their electoral best when agitating and Brexit in some ways preserved their base in Northern Ireland in a way that it couldn't in the Republic. Mary Lou, the Sinn Fein president, is making no great shakes of her leadership; the presidential election results, along with the local government and EU results, show that Sinn Fein under her are on the slide. In 2015, they secured an impressive 15% of the vote in the Republic; today it's just over 9%. Sinn Fein's vice-president, Michelle O'Neill (or leader of Sinn Fein-NI), has been sheltered from the voting collapse because of the dominance of identity politics over issues and policies within the north. The uncompromising attitude of the DUP towards all things Irish also shores up Sinn Fein in Northern Ireland. That said, the Sinn Fein leadership have some serious thinking to do - something acknowledged by senior TDs. The invincibility of Sinn Fein has been pierced and it is not going to be contained at the border for much longer. Sinn Fein can't cope with a buoyant Irish economy and record levels of employment. It's hard to believe they couldn't politically capitalise on the housing crisis in Dublin. They are being challenged in Dublin working-class areas by a resurgent Fianna Fail and now the Greens. Independents and People Before Profit are to the left of them. Even in West Belfast and Derry, People Before Profit are proving better street agitators than Sinn Fein. In Northern Ireland, a Sinn Fein supporter informed this writer that former senior republicans had told him that they would prefer to support Alliance over the SDLP, because of the SDLP's decision to abstain on the Spad Bill taken to the Assembly by TUV leader Jim Allister in 2013. If true, this would be ironic, as it was Alliance voting with the other unionist parties that delivered the Bill and it was the Greens who voted with Sinn Fein against it. It would seem some in Sinn Fein's old guard can't rise above grudge/revenge politics even within the wider nationalist family. With the revolutionary days over and the smell of sulphur a distant memory, Sinn Fein need to find a new purpose and champion issues beyond the politics of protest. It remains to be seen if that can be delivered by the current duo. But, north and south, change is definitely a-coming and parties should be prepared to be blown along with the change, or be swept away. Tom Kelly is a writer and commentator A boy told police interviewers that he ran away when he realised his friend was raping a 14-year-old schoolgirl, a trial in Dublin has heard. Two youths, aged 13 at the time and who cannot be identified, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Ana Kriegel in Lucan last May. Boy A has also denied aggravated sexual assault. Boy B yesterday told the Central Criminal Court he saw Ana and Boy A "struggling" before she was "flipped" onto the ground. He said Boy A then climbed on top of Ana, started choking her and "slowly" taking off her clothes. Boy B told gardai he realised that Boy A was "raping" Ana and he "had to run". He said Boy A had a "blank face" and was showing no emotion while Ana was crying and begging him to stop. Yesterday the jury continued to watch video footage of interviews which gardai conducted with Boy B after he was arrested for a second time on suspicion of the murder. The interviews took place at Lucan Garda Station on July 7, 2018. Boy B said he walked into the abandoned house where Ana's body was later found, looked around, picked up a stick or white plank and then put it down. He walked back outside and Ana and Boy A walked into the house. He said Boy A then told him to leave. Boy B said he stood by the doorway and watched as Boy A "took her down and stripped her". Boy B said he then ran out of the house. Asked to describe exactly what he saw, Boy B said he saw Boy A on top of Ana, taking her clothes off. Boy B said he was standing there, staring, wondering what he should do. He could see Boy A choking Ana. He said they were both on the ground "struggling". Boy B said his brain realised what was happening. Boy A then turned his face and he had "this look on his face". Boy B said he couldn't describe the look. During the seventh interview, Gda Daly asked Boy B to give him a guided tour of what he had seen. Boy B said he went into another room but he heard "shuffling" from the room Boy A and Ana had gone into. He said he went over to see what was happening. He stood at the door and saw Ana and Boy A. At first it looked like they were hugging. He couldn't see their faces. Both were struggling and then Boy A flipped her onto the ground. Boy B said Boy A climbed on top of Ana and started choking her with his right hand. He slowly took off her jumper, T-shirt and pants. He said he then realised Boy A was raping Ana and he "had to run". Just as Boy A was about to take off Ana's bra, Boy B said Boy A looked up and that's when he (Boy B) ran. Asked if he took off any of Ana's clothes, Boy B said: "No." Asked if he went into the room, Boy B said: "I didn't." The trial continues. Independents 4 change candidate Clare Daly and Barry Andrews of Fianna Fail are deemed elected to Dublin Constituency of the European Elections at the RDS. Clare Daly has been elected as MEP while Fianna Fails Barry Andrews has taken the fourth cold storage seat in the Dublin constituency. Ms Daly was elected on a total of 87,770 votes while Mr Andrews was elected with a total of 68,952 on the 15th count of the European elections. The final two seats were filled after a dispute over the transfer of votes which resulted in the count being suspended on Monday night. It was decided on Tuesday to distribute the votes of Sinn Feins Lynn Boylan instead of automatically electing the last remaining candidates. Her transfer votes secured Ms Daly the third seat. The issue is significant because whoever took fourth place will face a wait to formally take their seat. The fourth seat in Dublin is one of two extras Ireland has been allocated as a result of the Brexit vote. Those candidates who take Irelands two additional seats at Brussels and Strasbourg will not be able to fill them until the UK actually leaves. Speaking after she was elected Ms Daly said: I hope to bring the same fighting ability that I demonstrate in the Dail (Irish Parliament). I really wanted the mandate of the Dublin electorate to be respected, so I was quite prepared if Lynn Boylans votes had put me out I would have lived with that. What I didnt want was sort of behind the scenes legal manoeuvring and stopping the electorate of Dublins mandate being recognised. The system was ran really well. It has been some 15 years since Fianna Fail had an elected MEP in the Dublin constituency. Mr Andrews said the result was brilliant and satisfying. We put in so much effort and one of the central parts of my strategy was try to close the gap between what the local election results might be in Dublin and the European elections, he added. Its a real endorsement of hard work and I think people are listening to us again. Expand Close Clare Daly speaking to the media (Niall Carson/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Clare Daly speaking to the media (Niall Carson/PA) I see Brexit as a disaster for this island and the relationship between the two islands and for Europe more widely. Ive been immersed in Brexit policy over the last two years and you dont have to study it to understand what negative impact it is on the island of Ireland. If Brexit happens Im ready to serve in the European parliament. Im not too sure what interim arrangements are going to be made but you get on with life. Green Party candidate Ciaran Cuffe took the first seat while Fine Gaels Frances Fitzgerald took the second seat. Following his election, Mr Cuffe hailed his win as an auspicious day for the Green Party in Ireland as he topped the poll with 63,849 votes. Ms Fitzgerald was elected on the 14th count after polling 59,067 first-preference votes. This is an auspicious day and a new beginning for the Irish Green PartyCiaran Cuffe Speaking after he was elected on the 13th count, Mr Cuffe said: Today and this weekend shows young people want to see change. They have spoken to their parents and grandparents, and the people have voted for an alternative to business as usual. I am really heartened by the result this evening but I am so heartened by the (election of) 48 Green Party councillors around the country. This is an auspicious day and a new beginning for the Irish Green Party. Expand Close Fine Gael candidate and former SDLP leader Mark Durkan lost out (Brian Lawless/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Fine Gael candidate and former SDLP leader Mark Durkan lost out (Brian Lawless/PA) Ms Fitzgerald, a former tanaiste, said she was absolutely delighted. Its a great vote. I think its very encouraging in the sense that it is support for the partys approach to Europe and how we have dealt with the Brexit issue over the last number of years, she said. I wanted to run for Europe because its a critical time for Ireland, (there are) huge changes with the UK pulling out. Its very challenging for Ireland and a lot of key decisions are going to be taken in the European Parliament. Her running mate, former SDLP leader Mark Durkan, was eliminated from the count on Monday. Mr Durkan said: Obviously I would have preferred to record a higher vote. There are issues that were pushing the vote for other parties in this election. While Fine Gaels vote increased here as opposed to the last European elections, its clear that a lot of people in the Fine Gael base felt very strongly that they wanted to see Frances returned and I picked that up on doorsteps. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn is facing a major challenge over his Brexit policy in the wake of heavy European election losses. Labour deputy Tom Watson, shadow chancellor John McDonnell and shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer have all called for a shift in stance to back a second referendum over Mr Corbyns preference for a general election. The move comes as outgoing prime minister Theresa May makes her final trip to a European summit in Brussels, and the UKs 73 newly-elected MEPs will also travel to Brussels to begin negotiations to form political groups. Mr Watson was among members of Mr Corbyns shadow cabinet calling for him to change tack and move away from his compromise position on Brexit, which seemed to have been punished by voters leaving the official opposition in third place. Weve lost many hundreds of thousands, if not millions of potential votes in that election because we got it wrong.Tom Watson Weve lost many hundreds of thousands, if not millions of potential votes in that election because we got it wrong, he told the BBC. And the time is now to show some humility, to listen and to move very, very quickly. Mr McDonnell also moved to corner his boss, alongside shadow home secretary Diane Abbott, saying Labour should back Remain in another poll. He said: Were saying quite clearly if there can be a deal, great, but it needs to go back to the people. If its a no deal weve got to block it and the one way of doing that is going back to the people and arguing the case against it because it could be catastrophic for our economy. Sir Keir also added a call for another referendum, leading Mr Corbyn to say he was listening very carefully to the views of members and trade unions. The Labour leader inched closer than ever before to a so-called peoples vote, saying any Brexit deal has to be put to a public vote rather than simply being an option on the table. Expand Close (left to right) President of the European Council Donald Tusk, Luxembourgs Prime Minister Xavier Bettel and Prime Minister Theresa May. (PA/Leon Neal) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (left to right) President of the European Council Donald Tusk, Luxembourgs Prime Minister Xavier Bettel and Prime Minister Theresa May. (PA/Leon Neal) Mrs May will also be admitting defeat for her attempts at compromise as she meets European Council president Donald Tusk before an informal dinner with EU member states leaders. Leaders will discuss the outcome of the vote which saw the traditional blocs broken up by a surge in support for Greens, nationalists and liberals and they will begin the nomination process for the heads of the EU institutions. UK MEPs will be looking for potential partners to form a group in the European Parliament, and need to find a minimum of 25 members from at least one-quarter of the member states. Expand Close Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage. (PA/Dominic Lipinski) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage. (PA/Dominic Lipinski) Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage said he has started preparations for a general election campaign aiming to win seats in Westminster in the event Brexit is not delivered by the latest extension deadline of Halloween. Mr Farage claimed it was extremely unlikely that a future Tory leader would take the UK out of the EU by the end of October. He told a press conference in central London: The Conservative Party are bitterly divided and I consider it to be extremely unlikely that they will pick a leader who is able to take us out on the 31st October come what may. The real obstruction to all of this is a two-party system that... is no longer fit for purpose.Nigel Farage We might overnight have made their lives a bit easier but I dont see them being able to deliver and I think the real barrier, the real obstruction to all of this is a two-party system that may well have worked in decades gone by but is no longer fit for purpose. And the battle to become the new Tory leader continued apace, with Home Secretary Sajid Javid formally launching a leadership bid as a unity candidate, The bitter battle to set the course for the party on Brexit continued, with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt penning a piece for the Telegraph warning no deal Brexit would be political suicide. He was immediately attacked by Tory leadership hopeful Esther McVey , who tweeted: Political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU and not leaving on October 31. It was a long day of waiting in Castlebar Co Mayo as the midlands north west constituency failed to elect their second MEP. Fine Gaels Mairead McGuinness topped the poll on Monday receiving 134,630 votes, the quota to be reached was 118,986. A day of declarations and exclusions followed on Tuesday but no candidate had reached the quota to gain the second seat by late on Tuesday evening. Independent Fidelma Healy Eames has been eliminated on ninth count in midlands north west. No one has been elected. Luke 'Ming' Flanagan remains in the lead for the second seat. aoife moore. (@aoifegracemoore) May 28, 2019 Frontrunner for the seat, Luke Ming Flanagan has had his head down crunching figures since early on Saturday with his team, confident that he will retain his position and return to Brussels with Ms McGuinness. There are four seats in total, those contending for the remaining seats along with Mr Flanagan are Sinn Feins Matt Carthy, Fine Gaels Maria Walsh, Fianna Fails Brendan Smith and independent Peter Casey. Exit polls predicted Mr Flanagan may not have as high polling numbers as his previous election in 2014. Polls make you think, he said. Youre always asking questions when youre in politics and when you get new information you always look at that, but it didnt tally with the response I was getting on the doorsteps and out canvassing. The good news is my vote held up, its close to 14.6%, Im absolutely delighted with that when there was such quality candidates like (Green Party representative) Saoirse McHugh. Asked whether he was surprised that Mr Casey was outpolling Ms McHugh, who was initially tipped as a late contender for the seat, Mr Flanagan hit out at RTE. Its as simple as this; the media are the gatekeepers to democracy and in this democracy, we had a situation where Peter Casey got wall-to-wall coverage, and Saoirse got four minutes on Prime Time, and from that she surged. The question has to be asked of the state broadcaster is what would the result of this election would be if Saoirse McHugh had got an equal billing with Peter Casey, Ill tell you, shed be an MEP. Asked if he thought the failed presidential and Seanad candidate Mr Casey would run for a TD position in a general election, Mr Flanagan was unimpressed. I have opinions on lots of things in this world and fortunately now I dont have to have an opinion on that man because he is now irrelevant. A spokeswoman for the broadcaster said: RTE is satisfied that its coverage was fair, objective and impartial, and is fully compliant with all its statutory and regulatory obligations. The heartbroken family of a hero garda who died in a diving tragedy off the Wexford coast have said they take comfort from the fact nine people are alive today because of his remarkable courage. Father of four Garda Dave Hearne (46) died on Saturday after a freak accident while he was off-duty and engaged in a recreational dive off Hook Head. The garda died from a suspected case of the 'bends' or decompression sickness. His mother, Gemma, said her son had grown up with their family home a hub of life-saving activity thanks to her husband, Declan (80), being involved with rescue work in Wexford. Mrs Hearne said they were devastated to learn of Saturday's fatal accident. "It is every parent's worst nightmare. We are all absolutely heartbroken," she said. "He (Dave) was the most unassuming man you could ever meet - he was so humble about his work and the things he would do. But he loved his job and being able to help people," she added. Garda Hearne will be buried today after 2pm Requiem Mass at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church in Duncannon, Co Wexford. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, and children, Dylan, Toby, Noah and Libby, his parents, Gemma and Declan, and his siblings, Brid, Maeve and Declan. Tributes to Garda Hearne were led by Irish Bravery Awards Council (IBAC) chairman and Dail speaker Sean O Fearghail TD who noted that the young garda followed in the brave footsteps of his father, Declan, who was also honoured for his courage in 1958. Garda Hearne received a bravery certificate from the IBAC in 2016. "That was him - he never thought of himself but always of others," Mrs Hearne said. "We were told that he had saved the lives of nine people. So of course we are very proud that people are alive today because of him." She said her family were "deeply moved" by the tributes paid to her son by his rescue service colleagues. Ireland and France have made a joint pitch for EU funding for a one billion euro electricity link between the countries as part of post-Brexit energy planning. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and French President Emmanuel Macron have submitted a joint request to the European Commission seeking financial support for the Celtic Interconnector. The proposed connector between the south coast of Ireland and north-west coast of France would stretch for 500 kilometres under the sea. Mr Varadkar and Mr Macron co-signed a letter on the issue during a bilateral meeting before a gathering of the European Council in Brussels on Tuesday. They have written to commission president Jean-Claude Juncker requesting support for a grant application that would see the EU foot 60% of the bill. Mr Varadkar said the first direct link between Irelands electricity network and mainland Europe would be vital in the post-Brexit landscape. This demonstrates the ever-closer relationship between Ireland and France, which will be Irelands closest EU neighbour when the UK leavesLeo Varadkar The Taoiseach and Mr Macron had already pledged to pursue the project at a recent meeting in Paris. The Celtic Interconnector will help to reduce electricity prices, support climate action, and provide greater energy security for Ireland, said Mr Varadkar. Our two countries are working together to seek EU funding for 60% of the overall one billion euro cost of the project, with the balance coming from commercial revenue. Im delighted that France has agreed to join Ireland in making this grant application, and I particularly want to thank President Macron for his personal support. This demonstrates the ever-closer relationship between Ireland and France, which will be Irelands closest EU neighbour when the UK leaves. I also welcome the excellent co-operation between the Irish and French national regulatory authorities. Two seats in the European election in Ireland have been filled by Fine Gaels Mairead McGuinness and the Green Partys Ciaran Cuffe. Incumbent Ms McGuinness topped the poll with 134,630 first-preference votes and was re-elected in the Midlands Northwest constituency. After topping his poll with 63,849 first-preference votes, Mr Cuffe was finally elected on the 13th round of the mammoth count in the Dublin constituency. Go raibh mile maith agaibh ar fad! Truly honoured to be elected as Dublin's Green MEP #EP2019 #NiGlasGoVotaGlas pic.twitter.com/YIJG9Ldto0 Ciaran Cuffe (@CiaranCuffe) May 27, 2019 He hailed the win as an auspicious day for the Greens in Ireland as the party hammered home wins in both European and local elections. Today and this weekend shows young people want to see change, he said in Dublins count centre in Simmonscourt. They have spoken to their parents and grandparents and the people have voted for an alternative to business as usual. I am really heartened by the result this evening but I am so heartened by the (election of) 48 Green Party councillors around the country. This is an auspicious day and a new beginning for the Irish Green Party. There are three seats left to be filled, with Fine Gaels Frances Fitzgerald expected to take the second seat. Ms McGuinness said she had already drawn up a to-do list for Brussels and thanked everyone who voted for her. She said she was delighted, relieved and a bit tired. With the second day of counting almost over, Ms McGuinness and Mr Cuffe remain the only two MEPs elected in the Republic. Independent MEP Luke Ming Flanagan came second to Ms McGuinness in Midlands Northwest with 85,034 first-preference votes. Sinn Feins Matt Carthy was third on 77,619 and Ms McGuinness running mate Maria Walsh received 64,500. Independent Peter Casey beat Green Party candidate Saoirse McHugh with 56,650. Ms McHugh received 51,019. A total of 3.5% of all the votes cast in the constituency were spoiled. The voting system, single transferable vote, in the European election means counting could run on until Wednesday. Big thank you all the staff in the RDS and in the count centres around the country. Meticulous labourious work, long hours and nervous politicians to manage. pic.twitter.com/fWgKOQRqsv Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) May 26, 2019 There was a major surge in support for the Green Party on the first day of counting, with candidates expected to take seats in all three constituencies. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he is confident his party will take three seats, adding he was on the hunt for two more. Meanwhile, Sinn Fein is facing challenging results in Ireland in both the European and local elections, with huge losses in several councils. Irish voters will elect 13 MEPs but two will face an uncertain wait over when they can take their seats due to the Brexit delay. The Republic will receive two of Britains 27 seats when it leaves the EU. They are being redistributed among 14 member states. The UK is participating in the poll, with British MEPs set to attend the inaugural plenary session of the new Parliament on July 2. As a result, those elected in last place in Irelands Dublin and South constituencies must wait to see when they can take their seats. Local council elections were also held across Ireland on Friday and counting in those races continued on Monday. Expand Close Charlie Flanagan will now seek to amend the Family Law (Divorce) Act (Liam McBurney/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Charlie Flanagan will now seek to amend the Family Law (Divorce) Act (Liam McBurney/PA) Meanwhile, a landslide Yes vote to liberalise Irelands divorce laws was confirmed in the early hours of Sunday. Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan is now set to bring forward a bill to amend Section 5 of the Family Law (Divorce) Act 1996 to reduce the minimum living apart period to two years. The European election count for Irelands three constituencies Dublin, South, and Midlands Northwest started on Sunday morning at centres in Dublin, Cork and Castlebar, Co Mayo. The European and local government elections are the first electoral test for Irelands main parties since the inconclusive General Election of 2016. The result delivered a hung parliament and precipitated months of negotiations between Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, two parties with a century-old enmity dating back to Irelands Civil War. A historic accord emerged in which Fianna Fail agreed to support a minority Fine Gael-led government through a confidence and supply deal for three years. The parties renewed that arrangement late last year, extending what has been dubbed an era of new politics until early 2020. While Fridays elections focused on European and council issues, the results will no doubt be interpreted as a public judgment on Fine Gaels performance in government and how effectively Fianna Fail has managed the delicate balancing act of holding an administration to account while at the same time propping it up. The scene of the crash in Co Offaly A man and a child have died and two other children have been injured, one of them critically, following an horrific head-on crash between a car and a lorry in the Republic of Ireland. Emergency services said the scene of the crash outside Tullamore, Co Offaly, yesterday afternoon was one of "carnage". A 30-year-old man, the driver of the car, and a five-year-old boy lost their lives. Two other children were also in the car, a girl and a boy. Last night the girl was said to be fighting for her life. She was airlifted to Crumlin Children's Hospital in Dublin and was due to have emergency surgery. The boy was taken by ambulance to the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore with serious injuries. The driver of the articulated lorry was also taken to the Tullamore hospital with minor injuries. A major emergency response operation was launched following the crash on the N80 Tullamore to Mountmellick Road at around 5pm. The scene of the accident, at Scrubb, Killeigh, was sealed off last night as Garda forensic collision investigators examined the scene. A man who lives about 150 metres from the crash site, said last night: "I was here at home around 5pm and I heard a bang. When I went outside I saw (on the side of the road) the driver out (of the cab) with a phone in his hand. I thought no more of it until a bystander said he thought there was a fatality." Despite a series of heavy rain showers throughout yesterday, the man said the weather was fine at the time of the accident. Although the accident occurred at the top of a hill, he said that stretch of road is not considered hazardous, although the N80 is a very busy road, especially between 5pm and 6pm. Local resident Rob Kelly, who lives just outside the village, said the news of the deaths came as a shock to locals and he described it at a "tragedy". He said the stretch of road where the accident happened is very busy at rush hour. He said the accident was the first serious one of its kind in the area. Daniel McGuigan died after being attacked on a Glasgow street (Police Scotland/PA) A 14-year-old boy has appeared in court charged with murdering a man in Glasgow. The teenager is accused along with two men over the death of Daniel McGuigan, 35, in Castlemilk. Police were called reports of a man being attacked on Stravanan Street on Friday morning. The three accused appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court on Tuesday charged with murder. John Brookhouse, 34, David Sharp, 37, and the 14-year-old, who cannot be named due to his age, made no plea and were remanded in custody. They are expected to appear back in court within eight days. A total of 6,377 new companies joined Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the first four months of 2019, bringing membership growth to 20 per cent compared to the 5,316 members accounted for in the same period last year. The number of renewed members reached 39,338 between January and April 2019, marking a year-on-year (y-o-y) increase of 3.3 per cent, said a statement. Over the same period, the number of ATA Carnets issued and received grew 15.3 per cent to reach 2,439, while the value of goods for issued and received ATA Carnets rose 64.9 per cent y-o-y to Dh1.83 billion ($498.20 million). A total of 78 ATA Carnets were issued by Chamber in the first four months of 2019, accounting for a 32.2 per cent growth rate compared to the same period in 2018, while the value of good covered by these documents surged 107.1 per cent to Dh53.5 million ($14.57 million) over the same period. Commenting on the latest performance figures, Hamad Buamim, president and CEO of Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, described the membership growth as an indicator of the growing confidence within Dubais business community, as well as the value-added services which Dubai Chamber members are benefitting from. Buamim noted that the uptick in membership demonstrated the positive impact of the various stimulus measures that were introduced by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai over the last year, which have drastically improved ease of doing business in the emirate, adding that the golden card system recently unveiled would complement such efforts and expand the competitive advantages offered by Dubai. "Despite global challenges, Dubai is proving to be the capital of business and a major destination for foreign investments. The growth in membership and the number of ATA Carnets in the first four months of 2019 is a positive sign that our efforts to enhance the competitiveness of the private sector are bearing fruit. We will continue to build on this progress and examine new ways to attract companies to Dubai and develop new services and solutions that meet the evolving needs of the business community. Earlier this year, it was revealed that it the percentage of smart transactions processed through Dubai Chamber reached 96 per cent following the chambers drive to adopt smart solutions and services for membership and trade documentation. These efforts aim to further improve ease of doing business in Dubai in line with the emirates Smart City vision. TradeArabia News Service A workplace parking levy is currently under consideration at the Scottish Parliament (Jonathan Brady/PA) Concerns have been raised by a number of businesses and organisations over the proposed introduction of a workplace parking levy. The move would allow local authorities to introduce a levy on parking, if they chose to do so, as part of measures to reduce congestion and tackle air pollution. It is currently under consideration by Holyroods Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee, having been initially agreed under the Budget deal reached between the Scottish Government and the Scottish Greens earlier this year. The reality is the levy is a straightforward tax on business and, potentially, their employeesAviva Ahead of the committee meeting on Wednesday, insurance company Aviva, in its submission, suggested that the levy could ultimately become a tax on employees. The submission read: However much it is presented as an environmentally-friendly measure, the reality is the levy is a straightforward tax on business and, potentially, their employees. This new tax would be particularly hard-hitting for businesses that chose to locate in rural locations; where it is already more challenging to recruit and retain staff, the introduction of the levy will simply make this harder. In its submission to the committee, the Scottish Trades Unions Congress (STUC) also urged MSPs to reject the proposal. Their submission stated that while the levy will be raised on employers, it is likely to be passed on to employees, going on to suggest that the levy would be difficult to justify when in-work poverty is rising quickly and wages across the board have stagnated. The Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) teachers union also indicated its opposition to the measure, saying: The EIS believes that the workplace parking levy would disadvantage teachers and become an additional tax for many that have no alternative but to drive to work. Paths For All, a charity that promotes walking, outlined its support for the measure in its submission. It read: The proposed workplace parking levy is a progressive intervention and entirely in keeping with the Governments ambition to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve health and reduce air pollution. The car park tax has to be scrapped immediatelyScottish Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser Scottish Conservative finance secretary Murdo Fraser called for the proposal to be scrapped immediately. The SNP cannot possibly ignore this criticism of the car park tax any longer, he said. So far it has completely dismissed the input of workers, employers and even the police on this hated scheme. Now we see social workers, insurance companies and retail organisations pointing out the very considerable flaws within the proposals. This extra tax wont cut congestion and wont change anyones commuting habits. Instead, it will hit workers and businesses for hundreds of pounds a year, and make life even harder for people who are just trying to get by. The car park tax has to be scrapped immediately. For those asking about the Workplace Parking Levy, here's some background. It's important to remember that this policy, which already exists in places like Nottingham, isn't an individual parking fee but a charge for the *employers* who provide the parking https://t.co/Mv6BAv95os https://t.co/c8SBEaOAK9 Patrick Harvie (@patrickharvie) February 1, 2019 A Scottish Government spokesman said: The Scottish Greens amendment to the Transport Bill gives local authorities the power to introduce a workplace parking levy based on their circumstances should they choose to do so. Schemes would be tailored to local needs and councils would have to consult and carry out impact assessments on their proposals as well as create a local transport strategy before introduction. He added: The Transport Bill provisions are for a national exemption that will apply to NHS buildings. Hospices will also be exempt from the levy, as will Blue Badge holders. In addition to the exemptions already proposed, the provisions enable local authorities to consider further local exemptions and they are also required to consult on the specifics of any scheme prior to implementation. A human rights watchdog has launched a formal investigation into whether the Labour Party unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish. The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) said it had contacted Labour after receiving a number of complaints about allegations of anti-Semitism within the party, and had carefully considered their response before opening the probe. The EHRC said the investigation would seek to determine whether unlawful acts have been committed by the Party and/or its employees and/or its agents and if the party has responded to complaints of unlawful acts in a lawful, efficient and effective manner. Deputy Labour leader Tom Watson said he had privately and publicly warned the party it faced a vortex of shame if it failed to deal with anti-Semitism. I feel utter shame that this investigation is necessary but I truly hope that it will provide the means to finally root out anti-Jewish racism from our party once and for all, he said. Today we have launched a formal investigation to determine whether The Labour Party has unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish. Read our full statement: https://t.co/2CldLI0aiD pic.twitter.com/522UPpIXv8 EHRC (@EHRC) May 28, 2019 Labour said it would cooperate fully with the EHRC, and rejects any suggestion that the party does not handle anti-Semitism complaints fairly and robustly. A party spokeswoman said: Labour is fully committed to the support, defence and celebration of the Jewish community and is implacably opposed to anti-Semitism in any form. We reject any suggestion that the Party does not handle anti-Semitism complaints fairly and robustly, or that the Party has acted unlawfully, and we will continue to cooperate fully with the EHRC. We support the efforts of the EHRC to draw attention to the obligations all political parties have under the Equality Act. But its ability to do so has been undermined by a 70% budget cut since 2010. Labour is the party of equality and in government we will strengthen the powers and functions of the commission. There has been a deeply worrying rise in anti-Semitism in the UK and across Europe. We are taking action to root it out of our party by strengthening our rules and procedures. But the issue can only be properly dealt with by all political parties working together to protect the interests of the Jewish community and to combat racism in politics, the media and in society more broadly. That includes the need for the Conservatives and other parties taking action to deal with racism in their own ranks. The EHRC is likely to request interviews with key figures in the party and will have the power to demand access to correspondence, emails and other information to determine how Labour dealt with allegations of anti-Semitic discrimination. The body has no powers to fine or prosecute organisations following investigation, but can make recommendations or draw up a legally-enforceable action plan. Separately, the Muslim Council of Britain has urged the EHRC to open an investigation into alleged Islamophobia within the Conservative Party. Jewish MP Luciana Berger, who cited the handling of anti-Semitism when she quit the Labour Party to join Change UK earlier this year, said: For anyone who might look to play this down, the threshold to initiate this process is extremely high. That the Labour Party has even met the evidenciary threshold is damning. Labour former minister Dame Margaret Hodge said it was a disgraceful day for the Labour Party and accused Mr Corbyn of failing to take the issue seriously. The Jewish MP tweeted: One of the most depressing in my 56 years as a member. Corbyn has completely failed from day one to take this issue seriously. The consequence is a full statutory investigation, he should hang his head in shame. 9 years ago I defeated fascist Nick Griffin at the ballot box. His racist party was investigated by the EHRC that same year. Now, after 4 years calling out Labour antisemitism, the EHRC will investigate Labour as well. For Corbyn to have led us down this path is unforgivable. Margaret Hodge (@margarethodge) May 28, 2019 The president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, Marie van der Zyl, welcomed the EHRCs decision. She said: We note that the last party to face a racism probe from the EHRC was the British National Party, which is a truly shameful indictment. In the past four years we have seen a large number of cases of antisemitism throughout the party from bottom to top. Despite the Jewish community demonstrating in their thousands outside Parliament, this has still not been addressed seriously by the party leadership. We will await with interest the EHRC report into racism at the heart of the UKs official Opposition. British Prime Minister Theresa May speaks with the media as she arrives for an EU summit in Brussels (AP Photo/Riccardo Pareggiani) Theresa May has urged her successor to seek a consensus over Brexit as Brussels stressed there could be no renegotiation of the Withdrawal Agreement. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt warned the Tories face destruction if a new leader calls a general election before delivering Brexit. The Foreign Secretary, who is among 10 MPs vying to be the next prime minister, said a failure to solve Brexit could ruin the end of the Conservatives and warned the biggest risk to delivering on the referendum was a general election. His comments came as Housing Minister Kit Malthouse became the latest person to enter the race to succeed Theresa May, telling the Press Association there was a hunger for someone new. Mrs May, attending a summit in Brussels, said the European election results in which the Tories took just 9% of the vote were deeply disappointing. I think what it shows is the importance of actually delivering on Brexit. I think the best way to do that is with a deal, she said. But it will be for my successor and for Parliament to find a way forward and get a consensus. The comments are aimed at Brexiteers in the race to replace her who have said they are prepared to back a no-deal departure from the EU, something which could lead to a clash with Parliament. Mr Hunt warned rivals that calling a general election potentially to win a mandate for a no-deal Brexit could be a disaster for the Tories, insisting that the UKs exit from the EU must be completed before going to the polls. Setting out the scale of the challenge facing the Tories, Mr Hunt told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: We must not go back to the electorate asking for their mandate until weve delivered what we promised we would do last time, which is to deliver Brexit, it would be absolutely catastrophic for us as a party. Mr Hunt, who campaigned for Remain in the 2016 referendum but has adopted an increasingly Eurosceptic tone, said he had always believed we should keep no deal on the table as it is the best way of getting a good deal. Mr Hunt said it was important to find a different way to get a deal, adding we have to have a go at this as he proposed forming a new wider negotiating team to change the Withdrawal Agreement. Leadership rival Dominic Raab also said he was focused on getting a fairer deal from the EU as we leave. But outgoing European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker stressed there will be no renegotiation. The agreement between the EU and Mrs May to delay Brexit until October 31 included a commitment not to seek a renegotiation of the deal. A team of DUP, ERG, Scottish & Welsh representatives would be Foreign Sec @Jeremy_Hunt's plan for renegotiating a Brexit deal with the EU. "It would include people who say if we can't get the right deal we should leave with no-deal" #r4today https://t.co/pUfzHiRulA pic.twitter.com/H0PeP8L867 BBC Radio 4 Today (@BBCr4today) May 28, 2019 Meanwhile, Mr Malthouse, who brought together Tory Leavers and Remainers behind a compromise Brexit plan earlier this year, said he had a good number of MPs backing his bid. Weve got to find a way to unite the Conservative Party to deliver a Brexit plan so we can move onto a really compelling, attractive domestic agenda that might command victory at a general election, Mr Malthouse told the Press Association. One of the reasons that Im running is that Im the only person who has actually done that. Mr Malthouse served as a deputy mayor of London under leadership campaign frontrunner Boris Johnson. Expand Close Housing Minister Kit Malthouse is the latest MP to enter the race for Number 10 (Isabel Infantes/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Housing Minister Kit Malthouse is the latest MP to enter the race for Number 10 (Isabel Infantes/PA) Other candidates for the top job also started to offer a flavour of their policies should they win a ballot of Conservative Party members later this year. Michael Gove is prepared to offer free UK citizenship to three million nationals who resided in the UK at the time of the June 2016 referendum. Matt Hancock wrote in the Daily Mail about driving up the living wage and cutting taxes. The Health Secretary wrote: Instead of yet another battle over Brexit, the next election should be about the economy, the territory on which the Conservative Party wins. Expand Close Boris Johnson, Dominic Raab, Jeremy Hunt, Rory Stewart, Esther McVey, Matt Hancock, Andrea Leadsom and Michael Gove are among those vying to be the new Tory leader (PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Boris Johnson, Dominic Raab, Jeremy Hunt, Rory Stewart, Esther McVey, Matt Hancock, Andrea Leadsom and Michael Gove are among those vying to be the new Tory leader (PA) In response to Mr Hunts warning that a no-deal Brexit election would be political suicide, leadership rival Esther McVey responded: Political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU and not leaving on October 31. Other Tory MPs vying for the top job include Cabinet colleagues Sajid Javid Andrea Leadsom and Rory Stewart, who continued his series of campaign walkabouts. Speculation continued to surround the prospect of other contenders emerging, including Brexit Minister James Cleverly, Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt and former 1922 Committee chairman Sir Graham Brady. Meanwhile, Downing Street indicated that the Withdrawal Agreement Bill, which led to Mrs Leadsoms resignation and the Cabinet revolt that hastened Mrs Mays departure, might never be published. Elsewhere, Commons Speaker John Bercow praised the extremely capable Foreign Secretary and Environment Secretary for being able to hack it when it came to answering urgent questions in the Commons. Speaking in Washington, Mr Bercow said: In the present Government, if I may say so, I would cite Michael Gove and Jeremy Hunt as very good examples of extremely capable ministers who have got the intellectual self-confidence as well as the communication skill and the dexterity at the despatch box to cope at that which is thrown at them. Sometimes people complain that the Speaker has granted an urgent question but neither of those two has ever, in my earshot, complained. They are people who know that they can hack it. A quarry will be completely emptied of water to allow police to continue a murder investigation into the disappearance of a mother and her three-year-old son in Scotland more than 40 years ago. Renee MacRae and her son Andrew were last seen driving out of Inverness on November 12, 1976. The 36-year-old mother-of-two's BMW was found burned out in a lay-by on the A9 near Dalmagarry, 12 miles south of the city, but the pair have not been seen since. A forensic search of Leanach Quarry is expected to start in the coming days, the latest attempt in an investigation spanning more than four decades and now led by Police Scotland's major investigation team. Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Brian Geddes said the quarry had previously been deemed too dangerous to search using divers, hence the decision to pump water completely from the site. He hailed the move as a "significant development" in the case. Mr Geddes said: "Work is now under way to carry out a forensic search of Leanach Quarry where we believe key pieces of evidence may have been concealed. "A key part of this operation is to recover the remains of Renee and Andrew if they are within the quarry and gather evidence vital to this ongoing investigation. "We are working with a number of different partners on what will be a challenging and complex operation expected to last several weeks. I would also like to thank local landowners for their co-operation in this inquiry. "The quarry has previously been deemed too dangerous to search using divers, which is why the decision has been made to pump the water from the site. "We will thereafter remove the sediment from the quarry, which will allow specialist search officers and forensic experts to carry out a meticulous search of the material." In 2004, a full cold case review resulted in a month-long excavation of Dalmagarry Quarry. Several days were spent at Leanach Quarry in October last year when officers also released an image of young Andrew around the time of what would be his 45th birthday. A picture of his pram was also released, although it was never recovered. DI Geddes added: "It is a major undertaking for everyone involved but the determination remains within Police Scotland to solve this case and bring closure to Renee and Andrew's family and friends after all these years." The Tories face catastrophe if a new leader calls a general election before delivering Brexit, leadership contender Jeremy Hunt warned. The Foreign Secretary, who is among 10 MPs vying to be the next prime minister, said a failure to solve Brexit could lead to the end of the Conservatives and warned the biggest risk to delivering on the referendum was a general election. His comments came as Housing Minister Kit Malthouse became the latest person to enter the race to succeed Theresa May, telling the Press Association there was a hunger for someone new. Setting out the scale of the challenge facing the Tories, Mr Hunt told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: Im worried that if we dont solve it (Brexit), we will face a political crisis that is far bigger actually than our legal relationship with the EU, it could lead to the destruction of our party system and the end of my own party. Expand Close (PA Graphics) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (PA Graphics) Mr Hunt, who campaigned for Remain in the 2016 referendum but has adopted an increasingly Eurosceptic tone, said he had always believed we should keep no deal on the table as it is the best way of getting a good deal. Ive always thought that ultimately our economy would find a way to flourish even with the shock of no deal, but the biggest risk to Brexit now is a general election. He added: We must not go back to the electorate asking for their mandate until weve delivered what we promised we would do last time, which is to deliver Brexit, it would be absolutely catastrophic for us as a party. Mr Hunt said it was important to find a different way to get a deal, adding we have to have a go at this as he proposed forming a new wider negotiating team. A team of DUP, ERG, Scottish & Welsh representatives would be Foreign Sec @Jeremy_Hunt's plan for renegotiating a Brexit deal with the EU. "It would include people who say if we can't get the right deal we should leave with no-deal" #r4today https://t.co/pUfzHiRulA pic.twitter.com/H0PeP8L867 BBC Radio 4 Today (@BBCr4today) May 28, 2019 The only solution to the extremely difficult situation were in and I dont want to pretend that theres an easy way through this is to change the Withdrawal Agreement, he added. Downing Steet said it would not provide a running commentary on the contest triggered by Mrs Mays decision to stand down as Tory leader on June 7. But the Prime Ministers official spokesman said that a promise not to reopen the Withdrawal Agreement was one of the conditions of Brexit being delayed until October 31. The legal text that was agreed (at the European Council) with the Prime Minister was that we would not be seeking to reopen the Withdrawal Agreement. That was part of the process under which the extension was approved until October 31. Meanwhile, Mr Malthouse, who brought together Tory Leavers and Remainers behind a compromise Brexit plan earlier this year, said he had a good number of MPs backing his bid. Weve got to find a way to unite the Conservative Party to deliver a Brexit plan so we can move onto a really compelling, attractive domestic agenda that might command victory at a general election, Mr Malthouse told the Press Association. One of the reasons that Im running is that Im the only person who has actually done that. The MP for North West Hampshire is the 10th hat in the ring after Mrs May called time on her Downing Street tenure, with Michael Gove, Matt Hancock and Boris Johnson among those to have already declared their candidacy. The 52-year-old is a former deputy mayor of London, under Mr Johnson, and entered the Commons in 2015. Expand Close Housing Minister Kit Malthouse is the latest MP to enter the race for Number 10 (Isabel Infantes/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Housing Minister Kit Malthouse is the latest MP to enter the race for Number 10 (Isabel Infantes/PA) His name was given to the so-called Malthouse Compromise, a proposal drawn up by backbenchers from Leave and Remain wings of the Tory Party, which would have implemented Mrs Mays Brexit deal with the backstop replaced by alternative arrangements. As the race to succeed Mrs May enters its first full week, candidates for the top job are starting to offer a flavour of their policies should they win a ballot of Conservative Party members later this year. Mr Gove is prepared to offer free UK citizenship to three million nationals who resided in the UK at the time of the June 2016 referendum, a number of national newspapers report, while Mr Hancock wrote in the Daily Mail about driving up the living wage and cutting taxes. The Health Secretary wrote: Instead of yet another battle over Brexit, the next election should be about the economy, the territory on which the Conservative Party wins. It should be a clear choice between higher pay with the Tories or higher taxes with Corbyns Labour. Expand Close Some of the candidates in the Tory leadership race (PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Some of the candidates in the Tory leadership race (PA) Mr Hunt warned it would be political suicide to seek to deliver a no-deal Brexit through a general election but was immediately attacked by Tory leadership hopeful Esther McVey, who tweeted: Political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU and not leaving on October 31. Other Tory MPs vying for the top job include Cabinet colleagues Sajid Javid and Rory Stewart. Expand Close (PA Graphics) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (PA Graphics) Former Cabinet ministers Andrea Leadsom and Dominic Raab are also in the race. Meanwhile Downing Street indicated that the Withdrawal Agreement Bill, which led to Mrs Leadsoms resignation and the Cabinet revolt that hastened Mrs Mays departure, might never be published. Kit Malthouse has entered the race for No 10 (Chris McAndrew/UK Parliament) Housing Minister Kit Malthouse is the latest person to enter the race to succeed Theresa May. Mr Malthouse, widely credited as the convener of both Conservative Leavers and Remainers to develop a compromise on Mrs Mays withdrawal agreement, said there was a yearning for change. The MP for North West Hampshire is the tenth hat in the ring after Mrs May called time on her Downing Street tenure, with Michael Gove, Matt Hancock and Boris Johnson among those to have already declared their candidacy. Expand Close Prime Minister Theresa May said she would step down in July (Yui Mok/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Prime Minister Theresa May said she would step down in July (Yui Mok/PA) The 52-year-old is a former deputy mayor of London and entered the Commons in 2015 as David Camerons Conservatives won a majority. His name was given to the so-called Malthouse Compromise a proposal drawn up by backbenchers from Leave and Remain wings of the Tory Party, which would have implemented Mrs Mays Brexit deal with the backstop replaced by alternative arrangements. Writing in The Sun, he said: This leadership campaign cannot be about the same old faces, scarred by wars that have split the Tory party over three years. We need to end the Brexit paralysis, and while I voted to leave the EU, I know that without unity across the UK, we cannot get a deal over the line. Its time for a new generation to lead the charge into our future with boldness and vision. Expand Close (PA Graphics) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (PA Graphics) As the race to succeed Mrs May enters its first full week, candidates for the top job are starting to offer a flavour of their policies should they win a ballot of Conservative party members later this year. Michael Gove is prepared to offer free UK citizenship to three million nationals who resided in the UK at the time of the June 2016 referendum, a number of national newspapers report, while Matt Hancock wrote in the Daily Mail about driving up the Living Wage and cutting taxes. Expand Close Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock who is running for Conservative leader (Victoria Jones/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock who is running for Conservative leader (Victoria Jones/PA) The Health Secretary wrote: Instead of yet another battle over Brexit, the next election should be about the economy the territory on which the Conservative Party wins. It should be a clear choice between higher pay with the Tories or higher taxes with Corbyns Labour. The bitter battle to set the course for the party on Brexit has continued, with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt penning a piece for the Daily Telegraph warning a no-deal Brexit would be political suicide. He was immediately attacked by Tory leadership hopeful Esther McVey, who tweeted: Political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU and not leaving on October 31. Political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU and not leaving on the 31st October. https://t.co/SeUHOZqAoj Esther McVey (@EstherMcVey1) May 27, 2019 Other Tory MPs vying for the top job include Cabinet colleagues Sajid Javid and Rory Stewart. Mr Stewarts campaign was endorsed by Sir Nicholas Soames, grandson of former Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill. Easy lies and false simplicities got us into this mess. They will emphatically not get us out of itSir Nicholas Soames The Mid Sussex MP and 36-year veteran of the Commons wrote in the Daily Mail that there was only one person who had put their name forward who can sort out Brexit, unite our party and restore pride and hope to Britain. He said: That person is Rory Stewart. I am honoured to support him. Some say we can leave the EU without a deal. But this would be the greatest insult to the wisdom and understanding of the British people. They dont want a leader who offers to ruin our country. They want one to lead it. Easy lies and false simplicities got us into this mess. They will emphatically not get us out of it. Expand Close Boris Johnson has also said he wants to be leader (David Mirzoeff/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Boris Johnson has also said he wants to be leader (David Mirzoeff/PA) Former Cabinet ministers Andrea Leadsom, Esther McVey, Dominic Raab and Boris Johnson have also thrown their hats into the ring to replace Mrs May. William Hague, who led the Conservative party in opposition between 1997 and 2001, urged candidates to recognise the absence of certainty and go for honesty. Expand Close (PA Graphics) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (PA Graphics) Writing in the Daily Telegraph, he said: If they are not careful, they are going to be swept up in the tidal wave of a rampaging Brexit Party and dashed against the sharp rocks of a hostile House of Commons. Do explain your vision for the country, and what form of Brexit you want to see. But dont pretend you will have the power to do everything you wish. In a political system in deep trouble for its failure to deliver, dont set yourself up to be the next example of it. Neil Findlay MSP was one of two resignations from Scottish Labours frontbench (Andrew Milligan/PA) Two Scottish Labour MSPs have resigned from their frontbench positions after the party recorded its worst ever European election results. Neil Findlay, constitutional relations spokesman, as well as business manager and party liaison, was first to stand down. The close ally of Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard was followed by the partys justice spokesman Daniel Johnson. Mr Findlay warned the party needs to stop its self-inflicted harm of infighting to be able to win again. He also announced he will stand down as an MSP at Scottish Parliament elections in 2021. Today I resigned from my positions in the Scottish Labour Party -I will stand down from parliament at the election - there is a big world outside the Holyrood bubble, life is too short to be involved in endless internal battles with people who are supposed to be on the same side pic.twitter.com/j3MBEIfm6D Neil Findlay (@Neilsocialist) May 28, 2019 Mr Johnson said he is resigning from the frontbench over the partys position on Europe. The resignations comes a day after the party had its worst ever result in the European elections in Scotland, losing its two MEPs and dropping from second to fifth in the polling. Mr Leonard has said he will not resign, despite calls from some party members. In his resignation letter, Mr Findlay set out a six-point plan to rebuild the party, including to end the eternal, internal fighting within our party and the toxic culture of leaks and briefings that come from some within the Scottish and UK parliamentary groups. He added: This self-inflicted harm has to stop our party leaders and our leadership teams deserve so much better. Scottish Labour will win again when the focus is on the public and not on the internal politics of the parliamentary group. Expand Close Neil Findlay speaking at the Scottish Parliament, with Richard Leonard (Jane Barlow/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Neil Findlay speaking at the Scottish Parliament, with Richard Leonard (Jane Barlow/PA) Mr Findlay played a key part in the pro-Jeremy Corbyn faction of Scottish Labour which took control from colleagues seen as more centrist after Mr Leonard was appointed successor to former leader Kezia Dugdale. The Lothian MSP said he had been considering resigning for six months and made his final decision in March, intending to announce it in June but bringing it forward after the European election result. He added: It has been an enormous privilege to serve the Scottish Labour Party, first as a councillor and then a Member of the Scottish Parliament. I am proud of the work I have done representing my constituents in the Lothian region and of the campaigns I have led in Parliament most notably to retain the childrens ward at St Johns hospital, supporting the blacklisted construction workers, the mesh campaign, miners justice and support for the victims of undercover policing amongst many others. I will continue to work hard and diligently on these and other issues right up until I leave Parliament. Mr Johnson tweeted: I have resigned from Scottish Labours shadow cabinet. I feel this is the only way I can effectively represent my constituents views on Europe and that we must make every effort to ensure the UK remains in the EU. I have resigned from Scottish Labour's shadow cabinet. I feel this is the only way I can effectively represent my constituents views on Europe and that we must make every effort to ensure the UK remains in the EU. pic.twitter.com/3nruDpaiXS Daniel Johnson MSP (@djohnsonmsp) May 28, 2019 In his resignation letter he said did not believe he could do this from the front bench and under the current direction and leadership of the party. In his reply, Mr Leonard thanked Mr Findlay for his unstinting support for me as leader and agreed the party would only advance when we look decisively outward to the public rather than in on ourselves. He added: I am very sorry that you will not be able to be a member of the Scottish Labour frontbench but I also know from our conversations that this is the right decision for you personally and in that you have my full support. Your service as an MSP has been outstanding. You have served the communities you represent with dedication and on the basis of your strongly-held principles. Expand Close Daniel Johnson (right) during a Holyrood debate (Andrew Milligan/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Daniel Johnson (right) during a Holyrood debate (Andrew Milligan/PA) Scottish Conservative MSP Annie Wells said Scottish Labour is in total chaos. She said: Scottish Labour has once again come out of an election and decided to form a circular firing squad. People who once voted Labour must be wondering what on Earth is going on. Officers from the Ministry of Environment examine a container full of non-recyclable plastic detained by authorities at the west port in Klang, Malaysia (Vincent Thian/AP) Malaysia has said it will send back some 3,000 metric tonnes of non-recyclable plastic waste to countries including the UK, US, Canada and Australia, in a move to avoid becoming a dumping ground for rich nations. Environment minister Yeo Bee Yin said 60 containers stacked with contaminated waste had been smuggled into illegal processing facilities in Malaysia. Expand Close Non-recyclable plastic detained by authorities at the west port in Klang, Malaysia (Vincent Thian/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Non-recyclable plastic detained by authorities at the west port in Klang, Malaysia (Vincent Thian/AP) She said 10 containers will be shipped back within two weeks as she showed reporters contents of the waste at a port outside Kuala Lumpur. The waste that was displayed included cables from the UK, contaminated milk cartons from Australia and compact discs from Bangladesh. Also shown were electronic and household waste from the US, Canada, Japan, Saudi Arabia and China. Ms Yeo said Malaysia and many developing countries have become new targets after China banned the import of plastic waste last year. Malaysia will not be a dumping groundYeo Bee Yin, environment minister This is probably just the tip of the iceberg (due) to the banning of plastic waste by China, she said. Malaysia will not be a dumping ground to the world we will fight back. Even though we are a small country, we cant be bullied by developed countries. Expand Close Environment minister Yeo Bee Yin with waste from the UK (Vincent Thian/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Environment minister Yeo Bee Yin with waste from the UK (Vincent Thian/AP) In one case alone, Ms Yeo said a UK recycling company exported more than 50,000 metric tons of plastic waste in about 1,000 containers to Malaysia over the past two years. The government has clamped down on dozens of illegal plastic recycling facilities that had mushroomed across the country, shutting more than 150 plants since last July. Earlier this month, the government also sent back five containers of waste to Spain. Expand Close Yeo Bee Yin with a container of plastic waste (Vincent Thian/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Yeo Bee Yin with a container of plastic waste (Vincent Thian/AP) Ms Yeo said Chinas plastic waste ban had opened up the eyes of the world to see that we have a huge rubbish and recycling problem. We urge the developed countries to review their management of plastic waste and stop shipping the rubbish out to the developing countries, she said. A rapid-fire line of apparent tornadoes has torn across Indiana and Ohio, packed so closely together that one crossed the path carved by another. Authorities said an 81-year-old man died after a vehicle slammed into his home as apparent tornadoes pounded through western Ohio. Celina mayor Jeff Hazel told reporters the man was among at least seven injured in the city some 80 miles north west of Dayton. Mr Hazel said up to 40 homes were damaged on Monday night, with some houses moved off their foundations by the storms. Expand Close Storm-damaged homes after a tornado passed through Brookville, Ohio (John Minchillo/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Storm-damaged homes after a tornado passed through Brookville, Ohio (John Minchillo/AP) A tally of storm reports posted online by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations Storm Prediction Centre shows that 14 suspected tornadoes touched down in Indiana, 10 in Colorado and nine in Ohio. Six suspected tornadoes were reported in Iowa, five in Nebraska, four in Illinois, three in Minnesota, while one suspected tornado was reported in Idaho in the West. At least half a dozen communities from eastern Indiana through to central Ohio suffered damage, according to the National Weather Service. The storms damaged homes, blew out windows, toppled trees and left debris so thick that at one point, road crews had to use snowploughs to clear an interstate. The National Weather Service said a large and dangerous tornado hit near Trotwood, Ohio, eight miles north west of Dayton. Expand Close Tornado damage at the Westbrooke Village Apartment complex in Trotwood, Ohio (Doral Chenoweth III/The Columbus Dispatch via AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Tornado damage at the Westbrooke Village Apartment complex in Trotwood, Ohio (Doral Chenoweth III/The Columbus Dispatch via AP) Several apartment buildings were damaged or destroyed, including the Westbrooke Village Apartment complex, where an aerial photo shows the roof blown off entirely. Just before midnight, not 40 minutes after that tornado cut through, the weather service tweeted that another one was traversing its path, churning up debris densely enough to be seen on radar. In Trotwood, mayor Mary McDonald reported catastrophic damage in the community of some 24,500 people. Hara Arena, idled in recent years after decades as a popular sports and entertainment venue, sustained a huge amount of damage. The mayor said five busloads of displaced residents have been taken to a church offering temporary shelter while the American Red Cross assesses needs. Expand Close Damaged trailers after a tornado in the Northridge suburb of Dayton, Ohio (Marshall Gorby/WHIO-TV via AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Damaged trailers after a tornado in the Northridge suburb of Dayton, Ohio (Marshall Gorby/WHIO-TV via AP) Some of the heaviest hits were recorded in towns just outside Dayton. In Vandalia, about 10 miles directly north of the city, Francis Dutmers and his wife were heading for the basement and safety on Monday night when the storm hit with a very loud roar. I just got down on all fours and covered my head with my hands, said Mr Dutmers, who said the winds blew out windows around his house, filled rooms with storm debris and took down most of his trees. But he and his wife were not injured and the house is still liveable, he said. In Brookville, west of Dayton, the storm tore roofs off schools, destroyed a barn and heavily damaged houses. Scattered severe storms possible late this afternoon into the evening mainly north of I-70. Damaging winds and large hail main threat while an isolated tornado can not be ruled out. Be alert to threatening weather! pic.twitter.com/1di8SeTuwg NWS Wilmington OH (@NWSILN) May 28, 2019 In Montgomery County, which includes Dayton, Sheriff Rob Streck said many roads were impassable. In Indiana, at least 75 homes were damaged in Pendleton and the nearby community of Huntsville, said Madison County Emergency Management spokesman Todd Harmeson. No serious injuries were reported in the area or other parts of the state. Residents in Pendleton, about 35 miles north east of Indianapolis, were being urged to remain in their homes because of dangers posed by fallen trees, downed power lines and utility poles that were also blocking roads. The latest apparent tornadoes came two nights after a twister struck a motel and mobile home park in El Reno, Oklahoma, killing two people and injuring 29. President Donald Trump tweeted on Tuesday morning that he spoke from Japan with Oklahoma governor Kevin Stitt and told him that the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the federal government are fully behind him and the great people of Oklahoma. ASDAA BCW, a Dubai-based public relations firm, has been named Middle East Consultancy of the Year at the EMEA Sabre Awards 2019 ceremony in London hosted by The Holmes Report. The Sabre Awards are the largest PR industry prizes in the world and are deemed the ultimate benchmark in PR performance. This years Sabre Awards EMEA shortlist included 400 campaigns selected from over 600 entries. In recognising ASDAA BCW, The Holmes Report said: "ASDAA BCWs maturity is reflected by an integrated offer that is perhaps best known for its ability to handle regional projects for government agencies, NGOs and corporations, and for its high-end corporate capabilities." "But the firm also has strength in brand marketing, public affairs and tech," he stated. On the global accolade, Sunil John, the founder and CEO, said: "We are extremely grateful for this wonderful recognition from The Holmes Report which honours not just our breadth of expertise but the strength of our creative work that moves people and delivers measurable business results for our clients." "Congratulations to everyone at ASDAA BCW for their dedication and great work. We are grateful to our clients for their confidence in the Agencys competencies," he added. The Middle East PR Consultancy of the Year award is the result of a thorough research process by a number of The Holmes Report editors, who review the submissions and travel the region to undertake face-to-face meetings throughout the year. Paul Holmes, the founder and chair of The Holmes Group, said: "Now in its 15th year, the Sabre Awards EMEA are all about engagement, credibility and relationship building. The jury made up of over 60 peers choose to award those agencies, corporate teams and individuals they believe to excel in those credentials." Since its founding in 2000, ASDAA BCW has been a pioneer of public relations in the Middle East, said the company in a statement. With five dedicated practices Consumer & Healthcare, Enterprise & Technology, Financial, Public Affairs and Corporate it has grown to be the agency of record for regional businesses, governments and multinationals alike, it stated. Proof IC, the digital and design firm, and PSB Middle East, the research arm, are fully-owned subsidiaries of ASDAA BCW, together bringing cut-through solutions that encompass public relations, research and digital. Today, the agency employs nearly 200 professionals across nine wholly-owned and eight affiliates - in 15 Middle East & North Africa (Mena) countries, it added.-TradeArabia News Service Rescuers work at the scene of an attack in Kawasaki, near Tokyo Tuesday, May 28, 2019. A man wielding a knife attacked commuters waiting at a bus stop just outside Tokyo during Tuesday mornings rush hour, Japanese authorities and media said. (Kyodo News via AP) A man carrying a knife in each hand and screaming I will kill you! has attacked a group of schoolgirls near a school bus parked at a bus stop just outside Tokyo, killing two people and injuring at least 17 before killing himself. Most of the victims were students at a Catholic school who were lined up at the bus stop near Noborito Park in the city of Kawasaki when a man in his fifties began slashing them with knives. City officials, quoting police, said the suspect was captured but died from a self-inflicted slash in his neck. Witnesses described a hellish scene: children and adults falling to the ground, some with their shirts soaked with blood, dozens of children running and screaming for help, and school bags and books scattered on the ground. I heard a scream so I stopped and turned around to see what happened. It was not a normal tone of voice, said Yasuko Atsukata. She said she saw one person collapse, and then another. The colour of their white shirts turned red after they collapsed, then I understood they got stabbed. In a nearby car park, a frightened-looking boy was in shock with scratches on his face, hands and legs, apparently from falling to the ground as he ran for his life. Police identified the attacker as Ryuichi Iwasaki, a 51-year-old resident of Kawasaki, and said they were still checking his occupation. His identity and motive were not immediately known. Expand Close Police officers investigate the scene (Jae C Hong/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Police officers investigate the scene (Jae C Hong/AP) Iwasaki reportedly lived with his elderly uncle and aunt and was known as a troublemaker. A neighbour said Iwasaki repeatedly rang her doorbell early one morning about a year ago and shouted at her husband that he had been hit by a tree branch sticking out from their garden, the Sankei newspaper reported. Kawasaki city official Masami Arai said most of the injured were students at Caritas Gakuen, a Catholic school founded by Soeurs de la Charite de Quebec, an organisation of Catholic nuns in Quebec City in Canada. Arai said three of the injuries were serious. Kanagawa prefectural police confirmed 17 people were injured and three others had died, including the attacker. Police identified the two other fatalities as 11-year-old Hanako Kuribayashi and Satoshi Oyama, a 39-year-old government employee who was taking his child to the bus stop. Hospital officials said both had been slashed in the neck and the head. Caritas chairman Tetsuro Saito said at a news conference that he was struggling to fight back my anger. Expand Close Students leave their school with parents following the attack (Shinji Kita/Kyodo News via AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Students leave their school with parents following the attack (Shinji Kita/Kyodo News via AP) My heart is broken with pain when I think of the innocent children and their parents who send their children to our school with love who were victimised by this savage act, he said. School officials said they will step up security measures at the school, including adding more security guards. But the incident raises questions about how schools can ensure the safety of children while commuting. Japanese children often walk to local schools in groups. Witnesses said that as the attack unfolded, the bus driver shouted at the attacker, and as he was running away he cut his own neck, collapsing in a pool of blood as police seized him. Japanese media including public broadcaster NHK said he was a 51-year-old resident of the city and that police found two more knives in his bag in addition to the two he was holding. Expand Close School officials at a news conference (Jae C Hong/AP) AP / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp School officials at a news conference (Jae C Hong/AP) Television footage showed emergency workers giving first aid to people inside an orange tent set up on the street, and police and other officials carrying the injured to ambulances. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he was outraged by the attack. Many small children were victimised, and I feel strong resentment, Mr Abe said as he was hosting US President Donald Trump on a four-day state visit, which ended on Tuesday. I will take all possible measures to protect the safety of children. Although Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, it has had a series of high-profile killings, including in 2016 when a former employee at a home for the disabled allegedly killed 19 people and injured more than 20 others. Also in 2016, a man stabbed four people at a library in north-eastern Japan, allegedly for mishandling his questions. No-one was killed. In 2008, seven people were killed by a man who slammed a truck into a crowd of people in central Tokyos Akihabara electronics district and then stabbed passers-by. Bangladeshi nationals Mahfuz Ahmed (left) and Belal Ahmed, among the survivors of the May 10 boat disaster in the Mediterranean Sea, talk to BenarNews at the Dhaka airport after they arrived from Tunisia, May 24, 2019. Updated at 6:50 p.m. ET on 2019-05-28 Belal Ahmed appeared dazed, his eyes bloodshot, as he talked about the haunting cries: His three nephews were gasping for breath, crying for help while flailing to stay afloat during a boat disaster amid big waves in the Mediterranean Sea. Belal, a 31-year-old Bangladeshi stone trader, said his relatives drowned one after the other, but he could not rescue them. They were in pitch-black darkness and he was trying to save his own life. My nephews were screaming for help. After sometime, they were silent, he said. They were yards away from me. But I could not save them. He said he survived by clinging onto a rubber boat after it suddenly lost air pressure and started to take on water on May 10, when he, his nephews and other migrants were attempting to cross the Mediterranean to Europe. As many as 70 people drowned and at least 16 others, including Bangladeshis and Moroccans, were rescued, U.N. migration officials said. The toll was the largest number of migrants killed since a Jan. 19 sinking in which 117 migrants were reported missing and presumed dead, according to an International Organization of Migration (IOM) official. On Tuesday, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina called upon her countrymen not to go abroad while risking their lives. I personally think, there is no need to go abroad illegally. But many people go abroad to search for a better future without knowing their destinations and the nature of the jobs, Hasina told a Bangladeshi community reception during a visit to Japan. Many people are going abroad by selling their houses and properties at the allurement of the brokers by risking their lives without having proper knowledge whether they will get the jobs or salary for it, she said. As many as 19,830 migrants had entered Europe by sea as of May 22, IOM said in a statement Friday. It was not immediately clear how many Bangladeshis were included on that list of migrants this year. Last year, Bangladesh became the country with the biggest number of migrants on boats seeking a new route to a better life in Europe, IOM officials said. Between 2012 and 2016, about 33,000 Bangladeshis had entered Europe illegally via six routes by sea, land and air, according to Mohammad Jalal Uddin Sikder, a researcher with the Refugee and Migratory Movement Research Unit, a Dhaka-based NGO. Citing information from Italian officials, he said more than 4,600 undocumented Bangladeshi migrants had been registered in Italy between January and April 2017. Those who are opting for such a perilous journey are rich. We have to find out why they are leaving country in this way, Sikder told BenarNews. Journey through several countries Belal, the survivor of the disaster, narrated his horrific account when he spoke to BenarNews at the airport in Dhaka, after being repatriated to Bangladesh on Friday. He said the boat tragedy came about when he and his three nephews Abdul Aziz, a sanitary mechanic; and two undergraduate students, Liton Ahmed and Ahmed Hossain on their own volition sought a better life by attempting the perilous journey to Europe. Belal, a resident of northeastern Sylhet district, said a Bangladeshi travel agency lured them into the trip with a false pretense of enjoying a relatively secure life in Italy, where they were hoping to get jobs as semi-skilled laborers. Belal was traumatized by his experience, Mafiz Uddin, another nephew, told BenarNews by phone days after the interview. After coming back, Belal cried for days, he said. Another survivor, 30-year-old Mahfuz Ahmed, not related to Belal, plugged the missing details about the human smugglers. He said he boarded a Dhaka flight that took him to North Africa, via Kolkata, New Delhi, Sri Lanka and Mumbai. From Mumbai, we were taken to Qatar and then Tunisia by air, he said. His harrowing experience began in Misrata city in northwestern Libya, where he said he was taken by boat from Tunisia with 82 other Bangladeshis. In Misrata, they started beating us up, he said. Mahfuz, a technician in Bangladesh, said that while in one such building, their handlers gave them 12 kilos (26.4 pounds) of rice and half a kilogram (about a pound) of lentils. That food had to be shared by 82 people for two consecutive days. On the third day, we were not given any food or water, he said. We called our family members back home and urged them to pay an additional 500,000 taka (U.S. $6,000) for each of us. On the third day, they were taken to the Libyan capital. We were confined to a room in Tripoli. They started torturing us again, Mahfuz, said. After the uprising that toppled dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011, countless armed factions waged bloody battles for territory in Libya, allowing smugglers to work unchecked along the coast, according to rights groups. The human smugglers often coordinate with inland gangs to detain migrants in squalid buildings. We again called our family members and suggested paying them 300,000 taka (U.S. $3,560), he said. Despite the additional payments, they were required to stay for another month, Mahfuz said. A baby is loaded into the rescue vessel of the Spanish NGO Proactiva Open Arms, after being rescued in the Mediterranean Sea at 45 miles from Al Khums, Libya, Dec. 21, 2018. [AP] Turned over to Libyan traffickers On May 7, their handlers took them by land to a remote Libyan neighborhood, where they met 50 Arab and Libyan nationals, 10 Egyptians and two African migrants being detained by three human smugglers. On the same day, all of the 144 migrants, including the 82 Bangladeshis, were turned over to Libyan traffickers, who herded them to a room and showed them how to operate a compass and taught them survival techniques in the open sea. In the three days, were not given any food and water, Mahfuz said. At around 3 a.m. on May 9, they started beating us with sticks and sharp weapons, he said, without elaborating. They walked for hours until they reached the shoreline at 7 a.m., he said. The migrants then boarded a fishing trawler. Two rubber boats were tied with it and it sailed for around 14 hours, Mahfuz said. At about 9:30 p.m., he said, the traffickers told the migrants that they were near the Italian coastline. They were then asked to jump onto the two inflatable rubber boats that were supposed to serve as their pathway out of poverty. The first boat led the journey with 50 to 55 people on board, Mahfuz said. Then they told us to get on board the second boat which could at best accommodate 30 to 35 people, he said. As many of us refused to jump, they started beating us up. Finding no alternatives, all of us got on board the boat. The fishing trawler left them on board a rubber dinghy that carried more than double its capacity. In less than five minutes, the boat began taking water and they could hear the cries of people drowning, he said. Many of us might have survived if we were given food regularly. But we were all exhausted and weak, he said. Mahfuz said he held on tightly to the deflated boat with 14 other Bangladeshis, including Belal. We floated in the sea overnight, he said. At the break of dawn on May 10, the survivors saw a Tunisian fishing trawler. We started screaming for help, Mahfuz said. One of the Bangladeshis died after he was rescued by the Tunisian trawler, he said. We were so weak that we could not talk. We would not survive if the ship was delayed for 10 to 15 minutes, he said, adding that the fishermen then handed them to the Tunisian coast guard. At least 54 Bangladeshis were on the boat that capsized and only 15 of his countrymen were rescued, he said. African migrants wait to be rescued while on board an inflatable rubber boat intercepted offshore near the town of Gohneima, east of the Libyan capital, Tripoli, June 24, 2018. [AP] Embassy official: Dozens more with Libyan smugglers Last July, in a bid to make it harder for smugglers to transport migrants to Europe, the European Union adopted limits on the export of inflatable boats and outboard motors to Libya. Foreign ministers of the 28 EU states made the decision to help violence-torn Libya stem the flow of migrants to Italy, reports said. In the first four months of this year, one person has died in the central Mediterranean for every three that have reached European shores after departing from Libya, according to the U.N. refugee agency. Across the region, we need to strengthen the capacity of search and rescue operations, said Vincent Cochetel, UNHCR's special envoy for the Mediterranean. If we dont act now, were almost certain to see more tragic events in the coming weeks and months. Meanwhile, A.S.M. Ashraful Islam, the labor counsellor at Bangladeshs embassy in Tripoli, told BenarNews he was informed that more than 100 Bangladeshis were with human smugglers in several areas in Libya. At this moment, this is impossible for us to rescue the Bangladeshis held by the traffickers, he said. We cannot go five kilometers beyond our embassy in Tripoli. But most of the camps of the traffickers are located at least 500 kilometers off Tripoli, he said. The ongoing civil war makes Libya into a lawless country, he said. We, the embassy officials, cannot go out. Indonesian riot police are deployed in anticipation of protests outside the General Election Supervisory Board building in Jakarta, May 28, 2019. Two senior ministers, a presidential adviser and the head of the national intelligence agency were targets in an assassination plot linked to last weeks political unrest in Jakarta, the national police chief said Tuesday. Police revealed Monday that they had arrested six suspects allegedly planning to assassinate four national figures and the unnamed director of a polling company during two nights of rioting in Jakarta that ended on May 23. The suspects were identified by their initials only: H.K., A.Z., I.R., T.J., A.D., and H.F. National police chief Gen. Tito Karnavian identified the four who were targets as Security Affairs Minister Wiranto, Maritime Affairs Minister Luhut Pandjaitan, National Intelligence Agency chief Budi Gunawan and Gories Mere, presidential adviser on intelligence. This information was gleaned from questioning the suspects, not intelligence information, Tito told a news conference. A rally by supporters of defeated presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto descended into chaos beginning on May 21 when officers clashed with protesters who threw rocks and fuel bombs, police said. At least eight people were killed over two nights of rioting. The protesters demanded the Election Supervisory Agency take action in response to allegations by Prabowos camp that the April 17 election was stolen by the government of incumbent President Joko Jokowi Widodo. Police have insisted that the rioting was not spontaneous but incited by third parties bent on creating chaos to destabilize the country, adding that officers were trying to identify the responsible parties. A total of 458 people have been arrested in connection with the riots. We tolerated them protesting on the streets even though they disturbed public order and violated the rights of other road users, Tito said. Fomenting unrest Meanwhile, national police spokesman Muhammad Iqbal said three groups were exploiting the protest to stir up unrest. Iqbal said the first group allegedly involved a former commander of the armys Kopassus special forces, retired Maj. Gen. Soenarko, who was arrested on May 20 on suspicion of smuggling weapons from Aceh province. Iqbal identified the second group as a hardline Islamic group called the Islamic Reform Movement (Garis), which police said had ties to the Islamic State (IS). Last week, police said two of the people in custody are members of Garis, whose founder Chep Hernawan claimed in 2014 that he was the Indonesian head of IS but later renounced the terrorist group. Chep said he sent several of students from his boarding school to the riot to serve on medical teams. The six suspects who allegedly plotted the assassinations made up the third group, Iqbal said. This group joined the crowd and carried firearms. They are professionals because they can use firearms and know the home addresses of the targets, he said. After learning of the alleged plot, Wiranto said he was not deterred. The threat was aimed at stoking fear, but we must continue to work hard to make the country secure. Our lives are in Gods hands, the minister told reporters. Amnesty International In related news, Amnesty International Indonesia (AI) has called for an impartial investigation into the deaths during last weeks riots, saying there were indications of human rights violations by security forces. Perpetrators of violence, be they from the police force or other parties, must be brought to justice, AI said in a statement, adding that three minors were among this killed. There must be a thorough investigation to uncover facts. A video circulated on social media appeared to show riot police beating and kicking a protester. The riots broke out hours after General Elections Commission (KPU) announced official totals showing that Jokowi received 55.5 percent of the votes in the presidential election, against 45.5 percent for Prabowo. The KPU made the announcement shortly after midnight on May 21, a day earlier than scheduled amid concerns of massive protests. Prabowo has challenged the election before the Constitutional Court, alleging systematic and massive electoral fraud. The court is expected to rule before June 15. Ahmad Syamsudin in Jakarta contributed to this report. A gunshot victim is treated at a hospital in Asmat Regency, Papua, Indonesia, May 28, 2019. Soldiers shot and killed four people in Indonesias insurgency-stricken Papua province during a riot reportedly started by anger over their candidates failure to win a seat on a local regency council, police and military officials said Tuesday. Protesters attacked the home of a rival candidate from the same political party in the Fayit district of Asmat regency on Monday, believing he had stolen votes from the politician they supported, local police chief Andi Yoseph Enoch said. The soldiers fired shots because the crowd tried to attack them, he said. Police identified the four victims as Xaverius Sai, 40, Nikolaus Tupa, 38, Matias Amunep, 16, and Frederikus Inepi, 35. Muhammad Aidi, the Indonesian military spokesman in Papua, said the army had invited police and the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) to investigate. Yesterday afternoon, after the commander received the news, he immediately contacted the provincial police chief and the local representative of Komnas HAM to form an investigative team. The team traveled to Asmat this morning, Aidi said. The service members will face the legal process. We will not cover things up, he told BenarNews, adding that the team would work for three days to collect evidence and question witnesses. Mondays violence in Papua followed two nights of unrest last week in the Indonesian capital Jakarta triggered by the defeat of opposition presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto. Eight people were killed in the rioting. Prabowo rejected the result of the April 17 election and accused President Joko Jokowi Widodos government of systematic fraud at the polls. On Tuesday, calm returned to Papua after 25 soldiers were sent from a neighboring district, according to officials. Meanwhile, Papuan Legislative Council member Laurenzus Kadepa, called for an independent investigation without the involvement of the military and police. Any team that involves the security forces, who are suspected to be the perpetrators, will not produce anything satisfactory. Based on experience, perpetrators only received lenient punishment, he told BenarNews. The head of the Asmat electoral commission, Feronikus Ate, declined to comment while community leader Paskalis Kossay said Papua was no stranger to such incidents. Unfortunately, incidents of violence like that have hardly been resolved in accordance with the law. As a result, the military and the police feel they can act brutally and kill with impunity, Kossay told BenarNews. A low-level separatist conflict has been taking place in Papua, a region where the population is predominantly Melanesian, since the 1960s. In December, separatist rebels killed 19 members of a crew working on a highway project in Nduga regency, prompting soldiers and police to hunt down insurgents. Papua declared its independence from Dutch colonial rule on Dec. 1, 1961, but that was rejected by the Netherlands and later by Indonesia. In 1963, Indonesian forces invaded the region and annexed it. In 1969, the region held a controversial referendum in which security forces had selected slightly more than 1,000 people to agree to Papuas formal absorption into the archipelagic nation, according to human rights advocacy groups. Nor Nizam Panijan is escorted by a Malaysian police officer from the Kuala Lumpur High Court after being sentenced to 10 years in prison for supporting the Islamic State extremist group, May 28, 2019. A Malaysian court convicted a former taxi driver Tuesday on three counts of supporting the Islamic State (IS) terror group, including financially aiding recruiter Muhammad Wanndy Mohamed Jedi in 2016, and sentenced him to 10 years in prison. Kuala Lumpur High Court Judge Sofian Abdul Razak ruled that Nor Nizam Panijan, 40, had failed to raise reasonable doubt. Let it be recorded that the court found the accused guilty on all three charges, the judge said in handing down the decision. Wearing a purple shirt and white Muslim skullcap, Nor Nizam appeared grim and silent as the judge read out the verdict a clear change from his cheerful demeanor earlier when his wife and two daughters greeted him at the court. In the first charge, Nor Nizam was found guilty of providing support to a terrorist group by pledging allegiance to IS between March 30 and April 2, 2016, through a Gagak Hitam (Black Crow) chat group on Telegram that involved Wanndy. Gagak Hitam members are believed to be responsible for the first terrorist attack claimed by IS on Malaysian soil. Wanndy, who was killed in a drone strike in Syria in 2017, masterminded the grenade blast that injured eight patrons at a Kuala Lumpur area nightclub in June 2016 and took credit via social media. Nor Nizam argued that he was not aware of the gravity of his pledge of loyalty and claimed to have declared it to not be removed from the group because he was interested in following events in Syria. According to the accused, he did not fully understand the meaning of the pledge and assumed it was a support to Islam in general and not for terrorism, Sofian said as he recounted Nor Nizams arguments before ruling that the defense was not believable. The accused not only declared allegiance but also contributed funds, and asked questions about Syria and even asked about how to go about migrating to the country, the judge said. Therefore the court agrees that the accuseds arguments were merely denials. For the second charge, Nor Nizam was found guilty of willfully transferring 70 ringgit (U.S. $16.70) and 20 ringgit ($4.75) to two bank accounts owned by Mohd Haniffa Syedul Akbar and Bukhori Che Noor respectively, who served as proxies to Wanndy. Defense attorney Syahredzan Johan argued that his client thought he was donating money to war victims in Syria and only Mohd. Haniffa and Bukhori knew it was being channeled to IS. The judge cited evidence that Wanndy himself had told the group to contribute money to him because the cells finances were running dry. This months contributions have all burned up these contributions are for our use, not to be saved. This is for good, God will reward greatly, Sofian said, reading from a chat transcript. Therefore it is clear that everyone in the group agreed and were demanded to make contributions to the cause, he added. Under the third charge Nor Nizam was found guilty of storing 21 videos and two photos containing IS-related materials on his smartphone. Justice Sofian said this charge was the simplest for the prosecution to prove. In my view, it is difficult for the accused to prove the photos and videos are not in his phone. No clear explanation by the accused can deny that, he said. Syahredzan asked the court to give leniency and consider this as Nor Nizams first offense. He is also employed as a taxi driver, earning 3,000 to 4,000 ringgit ($716 to $954) monthly and has two daughters, Syahredzan said. Deputy Public Prosecutor Azlina Rasdi, meanwhile, asked for a harsh sentence to serve as a deterrence for others. Sofian then sentenced Nor Nizam to 10 years for the first offense, six for the second and three for the third to run concurrently from his August 2016 arrest. In April, the Royal Malaysia Police said they had arrested 26 people suspected of involvement in terrorist or IS-related activities in the country to date. Of those taken into custody, five were Malaysians, 13 were from the Philippines, six were from Egypt, one from Pakistani and one from Tunisia. Earlier this month, police reported arresting seven IS-linked militants who allegedly planned attacks and assassinations to avenge the death of a Malay Muslim firefighter during a riot at a local Hindu temple last November. Medics place a victim of a bomb attack at a marketplace in Pattani, a province of Thailands insurgency-stricken Deep South, in the back of a pickup truck, May 27, 2019. Updated at 5:39 P.M. ET on 2019-05-28 Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha and people in Thailands troubled Deep South condemned a bombing that killed two civilians, including a 14-year-old boy, and wounded 23 others at a Pattani province market as locals in the mainly Muslim border region were shopping for Ramadan on Monday. Authorities suspect that separatist insurgents were behind the attack, which occurred before nightfall at the Bo Thong market in Pattanis Nong Chik district. Four of the wounded were soldiers, officials said. The bombers intended to harm a crowd of shoppers who were buying food with which to break their daily fast during the Islamic holy month, officials said, alleging that the act was also done to retaliate for the killing of a rebel commander by government security forces earlier on Monday. In Bangkok on Tuesday, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha offered condolences through his spokesman to the families of the two victims. [The attack] is severe and inhumane, said deputy government spokesman Lt. Gen. Weerachon Sukhonthapatipak. It happened in Ramadan, the time to do good deeds. The victims of the marketplace attack were identified as Edil Fitri Yako, 14, and Saripah Ayosae, 35. The teenagers older sister spoke to BenarNews during a Monday night funeral. It's painful to see the kid come back home lifeless, said his sister, who identified herself as Aslina. I urge the attackers to think for a second about how painful it is for those who lost loved ones, she added. I dont know what you want out of this violence. Mondays explosion occurred when attackers detonated a motorcycle they had rigged with a homemade bomb and left at the Bo Thong market, police said. Col. Thanawee Suwanarat, spokesman for the armys regional internal security command (ISOC-4), who spoke at the funeral service for Edil, said insurgents launched the attack to avenge the killing in nearby Yala province of an insurgent commander, Abdulloh Lateh, hours earlier. Because of the insurgent loss, they [bombed] the Bo Thong marketplace where brothers and sisters came to shop for food, Thanawee told the gathering of mourners. Mondays violence occurred a day after two Thai marines were shot dead while riding a motorcycle to their base in Bacho, a district of Narathiwat, another province in the Deep South, authorities said. Kasturi Mahkota, who sits on a panel representing southern rebel groups and factions in Malaysia-brokered peace talks with Thailands government, called for an investigation of the incident. We would be deeply saddened if the act was carried out by the fighters, as that would damage the image and reputation of the fighters, Kasturi, who represents the Patani United Liberation Organization (PULO), told BenarNews. "We strongly condemn this atrocity and demand that the government conduct a transparent and fair process of investigation to bring the perpetrator to justice as soon as possible." About 7,000 people have been killed in violence in Thailands Malay-speaking southern border region since the insurgency reignited 15 years ago, according to Deep South Watch, a local think-tank group. Matahari Ismail in Narathiwat, Thailand contributed to this report. The Ministry of Community Development (MoCD) and Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to launch the Etihad Senior Emiratis 'Basma' Programme, which offers UAE nationals over the age of 60 an exclusive programme of benefits when flying with the airline. Etihad has also signed an agreement with Abu Dhabi Airports to provide Basma members with a range of added benefits from the capitals airport. On the occasion of the launch, Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development, said: "The memorandum of understanding with Etihad Airways is a result of continuous efforts, partnership and integration with different public and private sectors in order to disseminate community culture and achieve welfare, happiness and positivity among all categories of the community. The national policy for senior Emiratis aims to raise their quality of life and to provide them with exclusive benefits and discounts." The MoU between the Ministry of Community Development and Etihad Airways enhances the Ministrys vision of supporting senior Emiratis and giving them more facilities to enrich their lives and reward their service and dedication to the nation, she said Tony Douglas, group chief executive officer, Etihad Aviation Group, said: Following in the footsteps of our countrys great leadership, Etihad Airways truly values the contribution of the UAEs senior citizens to our society. It is a great privilege for Etihad to give back to this community with an exclusive and tailored package of benefits. It is with great pride that Etihad is the first airline in the region to offer such benefits, which will be expanded over the coming years. Users of the Etihad Senior Emiratis Basma Card will be able to instantly access Silver status with Etihad Guest, the airlines award-winning loyalty programme. Further benefits include discounts on Etihad Airways flights, when booked through Etihad Airways retail offices. Members will also receive 25 per cent bonus Guest Miles, discounts on upgrades using miles at the airport, alongside priority check-in at Abu Dhabi International Airport. They will also be entitled to an additional baggage allowance, depending on the class of travel. Commenting on this collaboration, Bryan Thompson, chief executive officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: Abu Dhabi Airports is eager to collaborate with our key partner, Etihad Airways, on producing tailored and creative offers that will further enhance our customer experience across our services. Through this programme, the national carrier and the capitals airport are ensuring we are delivering a product that will create a memorable experience to one of our most cherished and appreciated travellers. Guests within the programme will also be offered a 10 per cent discount at Abu Dhabi Duty Free, as well as courtesy three-day airport parking at Abu Dhabi International Airport. In addition, these members can take advantage of an upgraded travel experience including entry to the airports Al Reem Lounge, where guests can enjoy complimentary food and beverages and an exclusive space to relax prior to travelling. - TradeArabia News Service For most Bowling Green State University graduates, the journey between final semester wrap-up and commencement is a relatively short one. A week of finals, end of semester projects and presentations fill the campus with new scholarship and, undoubtedly, a little bit of stress. But for some students, the journey is just a bit longer. Ian Aspen is an active-duty technical sergeant serving in the U.S. Air Force as a weapons specialist. He serves as a non-commissioned officer in charge of maintenance operations. This month, he will travel from his deployed station at the Ghedi Air Base in Italy to receive his diploma at the Stroh Center. Because of his active deployment, Aspen utilized the University's eCampus to earn his Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Technology completely online. "The eCampus program has surpassed all expectations," Aspen said. "BGSU is the third university I have attended through online learning, and it has been the easiest transition thus far." A native of Boise, Idaho, Aspen was drawn to BGSU because of the University's strong commitment to Military and Veteran services. Aspen said the Air University (AU-ABC) program was a major factor that contributed to his interest in BGSU. The program allows BGSU and the Air Force to work together to offer airmen an opportunity to excel. The AU-ABC program is an accelerated associate to baccalaureate cooperative that works to transfer military earned credits into BGSU program credits. 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 Etihad Holidays is giving travellers the chance to create unforgettable memories this Eid with a selection of holiday packages starting from Dh1,519 ($413.4) per person. Travellers can take advantage of Etihad Holidays Eid travel sale and choose from relaxing staycations or quick getaways across Asia, Europe and the US. Etihad Holidays has re-launched its booking system, allowing visitors to access some of the best rates available including three-night package deals with Etihad Airways with flights and accommodation starting from just Dh1,519 per person. Travellers can choose from a fantastic selection of hotels and resorts including three, four or five-star hotels such as Radisson, Sheraton and Ritz Carlton. Hareb Almuhairy, senior vice president Destination & Leisure Management, Etihad Aviation Group, said: This is an exciting opportunity to celebrate Eid with family or friends. We are proud to offer these fantastic packages for those looking to get some much-needed rest and relaxation. With the opportunity to explore the world, travellers can grab an Eid getaway from now until May 31 with packages to Phuket from Dh3,359 ($914.3) per person, Munich from Dh3,781 ($1,029.2) per person or Los Angeles from Dh5,928 ($1,613.6) per person. Travellers can experience Etihads acclaimed inflight hospitality and have the ability to curate every aspect of their journey, whether they choose a neighbour-free seat or additional treats from the new Sweet or Salty retail menu in Economy, or upgrade to Business, Etihad offers unparalleled levels of choice. Residents wanting to enjoy the UAEs fabulous beaches and warm, clear waters, can enjoy Abu Dhabi packages from Dh659 ($179.3) per person, Dubai packages from Dh439 ($119.4) per person and Ras Al Khaimah packages from Dh1,099 ($299.1) per person. The sale runs until May 31 and the promotion is valid for travel from June 1 to 9. - TradeArabia News Service Minimally Invasive Surgery is a newer form of heart surgery in India If youve been told that you or your loved one needs a heart surgery, then you would want to know all about it right? For most of us, what may come to our mind is an open heart surgeryand the long recovery time it needs. But for many, a minimally invasive heart surgery can also be considered. Here are some facts about it. Minimally invasive heart surgery is carried out to treat a variety of heart conditions. It can be used for several different cardiac procedures, including: Coronary bypass (is a procedure that restores blood flow to your heart muscle by diverting the flow of blood around a section of a blocked artery in your heart), valve surgery (to repair or replace diseased heart valves), and aneurysm repair (a surgery to repair an aneurysm which is a bulge in a blood vessel caused by a weakness in the blood vessel wall, usually where it branches). Many other heart procedures like mitral valve repair and replacement, tricuspid valve repair and replacement, aortic valve replacement, atrial septal defect and patent foramen ovale closure and Atrioventricular septal defect surgery, are done with the help of it. What is minimally invasive heart surgery? Minimally Invasive Surgery is a newer form of heart surgery in India. It is a relatively new and advanced technique of performing coronary bypass for the treatment of coronary heart diseases. In this technique, the heart is approached through the side of via a small 4- 6 cm incision. This cut is placed just under the nipple. The chest is entered between the ribs without cutting any bones and by splitting the muscle. This makes the procedure ideal in diabetics and older patients who have poor resistance to infection. Who should go for it? Minimally invasive heart surgery isn't an option for everyone, but it can offer potential benefits in those for whom it's appropriate. You will have to consult your doctor who will evaluate you and may let you know, if you are the right candidate for it. Your doctor may conduct a physical examination, review your medical history and perform tests. Based on the tests, he may guide you on whether you should or shouldnt opt for it. Moreover, your expert may recommend you have the surgery at a medical centre with surgeons and a surgical team experienced and trained in conducting it. How to prepare for it? Before opting for the surgery, your doctor will explain you what to expect before, during and after the surgery, and potential risks of the surgery. Your doctor may discuss concerns you may have about your minimally invasive heart surgery. Also, you may need to have your hair shaved off at the locations of your body where the procedure will take place. Before you are admitted to the hospital for your surgery, talk to your family about your hospital stay and discuss help you may need when you return home. Your doctor and treatment team may give you specific instructions to follow during your recovery when you return home. Benefits of the surgery: No splitting of the breastbone Less painful Blood loss is almost negligible eliminating blood transfusion in most and eliminating blood borne infection Lower risk of bleeding Reduced ICU and hospital stay It can help Improve postoperative pulmonary function Improves quality of life Less blood loss Smaller, less noticeable scars Recovery time may be shorter The best part is that all the blocks irrespective of their location in the heart can be bypassed in a safe and predictable manner. Dr. Mangesh Kohale, Cardio-Thoracic Surgeon at Wockhardt Hospital Mumbai Central Both institutions seek to work together and carry out joint research & academic activities Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT-D) and National Chiao Tung University (NCTU), Taiwan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish and offer a Joint Doctoral Degree Programme (JDP). The MoU has been jointly signed by Prof V. Ramgopal Rao, Director, IIT Delhi and Prof. Mau-Chung Frank Chang, President, National Chiao Tung University, Taiwan. Under the MoU, an academic and student exchange will be developed through the JDP whereby students who successfully completes all the requirements of the programme will be awarded a joint degree for the thesis by both institutions. Both institutions also seek to work together and carry out joint research & academic activities in a mutually beneficial way and to look for synergies across the doctoral programs of each other. Launch of the 'Fellowship in Clinical, Preventive & Non-invasive Cardiology' course for an advanced understanding of Cardiovascular subject Medvarsity, a pioneer in online medical training, announced its partnership with Medanta - The Medicity Hospital. The two entities launched a 'Fellowship in Clinical, Preventive & Non-invasive Cardiology' course as a joint program under this association. This partnership promises to work towards strengthening the Cardiology practices to the next level in India. A quarter of deaths in India are due to cardiovascular diseases, according to the global burden of disease report. The number of heart disease cases is alarmingly high and only increasing with demanding lifestyle changes. Even though these numbers are rising constantly, there is a significant lack of trained cardiologists in the country. India requires around 88,000 but only has about 4,000 cardiologists, which opens up the need for more trained physicians who can handle such cases, and in turn bridge the gap effectively. Talking about the partnership, Mr. Gerald Jaideep, CEO, Medvarsity Online Ltd., said, "Partnering with Medanta allows us to develop a pool of skilled clinical practitioners to address the increasing demand for cardiology services in India. We aim to discover viable ways to improve patient care and effectively contribute to the ever-changing landscape of the medical industry." The course aims to address the increasing demand for cardiology services in India. It has been curated to provide physicians with the opportunity to learn more effectively and become better healthcare professionals with advanced skills to handle the rising challenges in the cardiovascular department. By introducing new age learning methodologies and digital education, it gives more scope to the medical professionals to enhance their skill set. The course is innovatively designed keeping in mind the futuristic needs of the cardiology field, to provide quality care to patients. Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Ravi. R. Kasliwal, Chairman-Division of Clinical & Preventive Cardiology, Medanta - The Medicity, said, "This partnership will help doctors become better caregivers in this rapidly changing 21st-century landscape. We are aiming to provide a robust, point of care access to the students interested in building a career in all aspects of clinical cardiology, a complete nuance of echocardiography and allied techniques and acute care cardiology. We are looking forward to an association that will help curb the menace of the cardiovascular disease epidemic in the country." Physicians trained in MD/DNB Internal Medicine, DNB Family Medicine, and PGDCC are eligible for taking up this course. This 2-year full-time program includes hospital-based practical training and online learning through theoretical content on LMS - textual reading material, recorded videos, live virtual classes (webinars), online virtual simulations and research methodology training. Fellowship certification will be awarded by Medvarsity and Medanta Institute of Education & Research to all students who successfully complete the program. Medvarsity Online Ltd. is India's first and largest online healthcare training company with over 45,000 medical professionals trained and certified. #IABSummit19: Balancing the power of the new now As media partners to the IAB Summit 2019, a panel of BizTrends contributors was selected by Bizcommunity's editors to participate in this year's IAB Summit taking place on Thursday, 30 May at the Joburg Theatre in Braamfontein, where they will be discussing 'Balancing the Power of the New Now'. Kalliebree Keynerd, head of social media at Joe Public Connect, Mongezi Mtati, MD at WordStart, Dali Tembo, CEO Instant Grass International, Kirigo Kamore, content manager McCann1886, Danette Breitenbach, Bizcommunity freelance journalist. Bizcommunity's freelance journalist Danette Breitenbach will interview panellists Kalliebree Keynerd, head of social media at Joe Public Connect, Kirigo Kamore, content manager at McCann1886, Dali Tembo, CEO of Instant Grass International and Mongezi Mtati, MD at WordStart, discussing their views on the subject in their various areas of expertise. Keynerd will share insights on online campaigns, drawing on her experience of implementing digital campaigns; Kamore will bring the perspective of content and how it needs to be approached online; Tembo will provide insight on the continents youth and their take on digital; and Mtati will give advice on how to create a buzz about your products/services and using influencers to do so. Transformation through the power of digital delivers an exponential set of advantages through the connectivity, scale and opportunity of the internet. Our expert panel members have an incredible depth of knowledge across these benefits in the media and marketing industry, as well as insights into how these benefits also positively impact us personally, as well as our communities, cities and countries. They are also highly aware of the potential pitfalls and red flags that are part and parcel of the territory, and in here lies the balance, says IAB SA CEO Paula Hulley. #BizTrends2019: The transformative power of transparency The discussion will address the pros and cons of digital and how it affects our personal lives and business. Breitenbach says, Digital has given us online bullying and fake news, but it has also provided us with innovative solutions to many of the key challenges facing humankind, such as access to online money transfers and more humanitarian solutions, such as hunger and drought to name but two. We are all aware of the power of digital yet we are unsure of how to manage it both in our private lives and work environment. Too often we are aware of the negative, for example, fake news, but not the positives, such as growing your business using digital tools. Any discussion on digital has to account for both sides of the coin. Hulley says being aware of the pros and cons of the power of digital is vital to succeeding in the new now. Like all important matters, there are upsides and there are downsides being aware of both gives you the power to better navigate this ever-changing journey and make the choices that deliver in context of the balance. Here, the panellists tell us why theyre looking forward to taking part in the panel and why this is an important conversation to have now Why are you looking forward to the IAB Summit and taking part in this panel in particular? Why are you looking forward to the IAB Summit and taking part in this panel in particular? Bizcommunity's freelance journalist Danette Breitenbach will interview panellists Kalliebree Keynerd, head of social media at Joe Public Connect, Kirigo Kamore, content manager at McCann1886, Dali Tembo, CEO of Instant Grass International and Mongezi Mtati, MD at WordStart, discussing their views on the subject in their various areas of expertise.Keynerd will share insights on online campaigns, drawing on her experience of implementing digital campaigns; Kamore will bring the perspective of content and how it needs to be approached online; Tembo will provide insight on the continents youth and their take on digital; and Mtati will give advice on how to create a buzz about your products/services and using influencers to do so.Transformation through the power of digital delivers an exponential set of advantages through the connectivity, scale and opportunity of the internet. Our expert panel members have an incredible depth of knowledge across these benefits in the media and marketing industry, as well as insights into how these benefits also positively impact us personally, as well as our communities, cities and countries. They are also highly aware of the potential pitfalls and red flags that are part and parcel of the territory, and in here lies the balance, says IAB SA CEO Paula Hulley.The discussion will address the pros and cons of digital and how it affects our personal lives and business. Breitenbach says, Digital has given us online bullying and fake news, but it has also provided us with innovative solutions to many of the key challenges facing humankind, such as access to online money transfers and more humanitarian solutions, such as hunger and drought to name but two.We are all aware of the power of digital yet we are unsure of how to manage it both in our private lives and work environment. Too often we are aware of the negative, for example, fake news, but not the positives, such as growing your business using digital tools. Any discussion on digital has to account for both sides of the coin.Hulley says being aware of the pros and cons of the power of digital is vital to succeeding in the new now. Like all important matters, there are upsides and there are downsides being aware of both gives you the power to better navigate this ever-changing journey and make the choices that deliver in context of the balance.Here, the panellists tell us why theyre looking forward to taking part in the panel and why this is an important conversation to have now Why do you believe youre well positioned to comment on the subject/topics of discussion? Why do you believe youre well positioned to comment on the subject/topics of discussion? What about the subject is of most interest to you and why? What about the subject is of most interest to you and why? Why do you think this is an important discussion to have now? Why do you think this is an important discussion to have now? What do you hope to achieve through this discussion? What do you hope to achieve through this discussion? Jessica Tennant's articles About Jessica Tennant Jess is Senior Editor: Marketing & Media at Bizcommunity.com. She is also a contributing writer. Jess is Senior Editor: Marketing & Media at Bizcommunity.com. She is also a contributing writer. moc.ytinummoczib@swengnitekram Don't miss BizTrends2022 - 7 keynote speakers forecast trends shaping business in our region! Register now! Digital has evolved so much in South Africa and across the continent that brands now need to understand the local audience much better than before, discussing some nuances that make South African digital communities will bring interesting changes and insights. Mostly, I look forward to learning how brands can engage better in the age of the death of organic reach.Im really interested in how this years format will play out. Its nice to see the IAB Summit experimenting with a diverse mix of sessions and presentation formats from 30-minute deep dives, 15-minute technical demos to 5-minute snackable insights.The more conversations we have about our individual experiences with how digital is fuelling transformation and facilitating impact, both personally and as business people functioning in this ever-evolving continental landscape, the better. In less than two decades, a piece of technology usually associated with wealthier continents (and high-income earners) has broken the trend curve and allowed millions of people access to information and resources that were previously unattainable. That said, were continuously discovering manifestations of this new found access that we never could have planned for. It is our duty to make sure were collaborating with other people (and communities) to share learnings and insights that might better prepare us for a future thats already arrived.Ive always wanted to go to the IAB Summit and be immersed in rich experiences and discussions around whats happening in the industry. This event brings together people who are really invested in taking the industry forward in what is a fast-changing environment. For someone new to advertising, like me, the IAB has been somewhat of a north star, and so Im thrilled to have the opportunity to meet with people in the industry and exchange ideas on how we can harness the opportunities and challenges we face in marketing today. Additionally, Ive developed an interest in digital transformation, and so the theme of the panel really intrigued me. Understanding the pervasive power of digital and the implications that come with it is a big topic globally, as organisations try to grapple with how we can all balance this power in the new now. So, what better way to understand these implications than with a panel of thought leaders?For the past 11 years I have sought to understand digital and social media with a leaning towards engaging better for brands in the local context, I believe some of the observations I have made may contribute towards a robust discussion on how digital can be utilised more effectively.Ive had a varied career in the digital space for the past decade and more. It is a field that I have a sustained passion for and have a good track record behind me.Digital has allowed us, as a South African born business formed in a small apartment in Green Point, to expand our networks and influence across 22 markets around the world. That kind of growth and development cannot be sustained without a clear and coherent understanding of the transformation digital has enabled within the context of the consumer landscape and delivering on great products, services and experiences. Over the last 15 years, many of the projects weve delivered have incorporated grassroots insights which detail how people (young people in particular) are: using digital, when they are using it, where they are using it and of course how digital trends are shifting our sense of reality. This has armed us with front row knowledge not only of how change is happening within our topic of discussion but also how it is being perceived - an important differentiator.I was surprised when I was asked to be part of the panel given that Im still relatively new to advertising, though Ive always worked in marketing. However, in the short span of my career, Ive already witnessed the exponential changes in advertising driving an urgent need for new skills in the workforce. The old brand-centric rules of marketing taught in traditional institutions are now being eschewed for a new consumer-centric, digitally native approach. So, as a millennial at the crossroads of old and new marketing, this has become my new reality and one Im fully committed to embracing.With things pointing to less reach on social and brands owning their message more on owned platforms, I'm interested in discussing how this change will tilt the scales by platform. South Africans are now on social more than ever before and they tend to be engaging less with brands, I'm interested in hearing and seeing how we can communicate better.What is the alternative to Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram? Currently, these apps are merging and have in-depth access to our data, interests, habits, life stage and locations. However, more and more people are choosing to go off the grid, by removing themselves from the FB family of apps. What does this mean for marketers as our audience become more sophisticated about the use of their data?Reverse innovation the idea that we (as part of the emerging markets) are now able to have more influence around the globe (and more produce more effective innovations) based on our access to technology and the internet. This is a fundamental change. We see this influence through the trends were able to export, the ideas we are able to share and most importantly (as far as I am concerned) how our culture can now be viewed through our own lenses - allowing us the ability to stand side by side with other cultures which may have been seen as dominant in the past.As mentioned, Ive developed a passion for digital transformation, as well as the 4th industrial revolution, not just within the context of advertising, but across industries and societies. Im particularly interested in how well address the need for digital literacy, a demand that is affecting both educated and uneducated people. Were being taken back to school, so to speak, as well as being asked to change the airplane engine while in flight. While this seems daunting, Im excited and optimistic about the changes well see in our work and personal lives. As for advertising, I like that the power of digital is forcing us as an industry to me more accountable, transparent and consumer-centric. The bar is being raised in how we as a collective need to serve people more meaningfully.Digital users have evolved and they continue to discussing how some recent changes can be used for both brand and human benefit critical as more and more people become connected.In simple terms, todays world (and business in particular) has many challenges that require new solutions. These solutions require innovation. We have political systems that we have traditionally accepted that are under intense scrutiny. We have seen the collapse of banking infrastructure, the erosion of privacy, the impact of online bullying, the emergence of influencers, the evolution of a new multi-platform consumer etc., etc. Understanding the impact digital has had and how it is transforming culture is of pivotal importance if we are going to be in the driving seat and designing our own futures.Because this change is happening now. Weve been talking about the new now for a while, often referring to the threats and opportunities of digital transformation in the future tense. But today were finally at a point where were experiencing these changes in every aspect of our lives. This felt reality has at once been met with concern, ambivalence and excitement, but with little understanding of how we can leverage the power of digital in the private and public sector. So, I think the more we talk about this, the more well have a better understanding of what we need to invest in to remain competitive and be well positioned to operate in an increasingly digital world. This is especially important in a continent that has been playing catch up in the previous three industrial revolutions.We need to contextualise marketing in digital for various communities and to unpack insights behind some local communities, the idea of "best practices" is fading in favour of relevance for various niches and what it means for the user. Hyper customer-centricity is on the rise in digital and this is driven by nuances within various communities. I hope this discussion opens itself up to relevant local findings that can be used to connect better with various audiences by interest rather than demographic.Growth and greater understanding of how others see digital transformation playing out in business and the country. My hope is to add value to the attendees and fellow marketing professionals out of my professional knowledge and experience.Personally, I hope to encourage the audience to engage in more of these debates outside of the conference setting and in our homes and businesses. Hopefully, there is a clearer understanding as to what digital transformation is and how it affects customer experiences and improves efficiency. If our biggest hurdle for the next 10 years is going to be unemployment, it is vital that we learn how to use technology to our benefit (particularly for SME's). These topics are no longer subjects pertaining to certain types of people. There are repercussions for all of us that stem from possible misunderstandings or not being informed. My hope is that we all leave better armed to make decisions that can contribute to a positive outcome for our country and continent.Better understanding and insights. I look forward to the diverse perspectives and experiences that will come out of the IAB Summit, as well as the proposed solutions from thought leaders in the industry. Ultimately I hope to learn how we can all balance the power of digital in the new now.Dont miss this panel on Thursday at 12pm to learn insights addressing the balance required to wield the power of digital. It is time to understand the good, the bad and the ugly of digital so that we can utilise the platforms it offers responsibly and for the good of all, concludes Breitenbach. Cape Town commercial music radio station, Kfm 94.5, is celebrating a groundbreaking achievement, smashing the record for the highest number of listeners in the Western Cape under BRC RAMS. The station has yielded remarkable results in the May 2019 release. BRC RAMS PERIOD TOTAL AUDIENCE (CUME) Oct 17 Mar 18 787,000 Jul Dec 18 869,000 Oct 18 Mar 19 944,000 The latest BRC RAM figures were released earlier today and show that Kfm 94.5 has crossed the milestone of more than 900 000 listeners per week. The survey indicated that the station has 944,000 listeners, up from 869,000 diary-on-diary - an impressive increase in audience that makes Kfm 94.5 the biggest regional station in the Western Cape.The station, which underwent significant strategic line-up, music and marketing changes in 2017, has consistently grown year-on-year and holds the undisputed largest share of audience in the Western Cape, commented Kfm Programme Manager, Stephen Werner.Werner said, This is the biggest audience number achieved for a Western Cape radio station under the BRC RAMS. We are immensely proud of our team, and how the station has grown over the past year. Our year-on-year figures: 944,000 from 787,000 (20% growth), diary-on-dairy: 944,000 from 869,000 (8.63% growth). We would also like to thank our loyal listeners who continue to make Kfm 94.5 the Capes biggest radio station with the most responsive audience.Snapshot into Kfms BRC RAMS performance:We have worked hard to differentiate Kfm in a way that rings true to our audiences. Our most music proposition, heavyweight line-up, strategic events and partnerships, along with our unique approach to marketing have clearly hit the right note, said Trish Taylor, Primedia Broadcasting Western Cape CEO.Taylor adds: The strategy is underpinned by the Primedia Broadcasting focus on innovation led by research and insights.For more information on Kfm, visit: www.kfm.co.za . The full BRC RAM survey is available at https://brcsa.org.za/ Lacklustre growth for South Africa's technical goods market as smartphone unit sales fall Kali Moahloli Small domestic appliance revenues grew by 1.6% compared to the first quarter of 2018. A decline in kettle revenues the biggest segment of the small appliance market contributed to the soft growth. However, toaster revenues were significantly up. Major domestic appliance revenues were up by nearly 4.5%. The freezer market performed well, with strong growth in chest freezer revenues in particular. The office equipment market saw a 10% year-on-year revenue increase, with strong printing device sales boosting the market. There was strong uptake of ink tank printers during the quarter. Revenues from the photography sector dropped by 54%, as smartphone cameras continued to cannibalise this market. The GfK data shows that high-end devices are now driving the growth of the smartphone market, with average sales prices up 11% year-on-year for the quarter. The feature phone segment enjoyed a slight resurgence, with unit sales up 4% year-on-year. Media tablet unit sales meanwhile plunged by around 22%, contributing to an 8% year-on-year fall in information technology revenues during the first quarter of 2019.The smartphone market showed a marked slowdown in the first quarter of 2019, with fewer than 3 million units sold during this timeframe, says Kali Moahloli, Commercial Head for Market Insights at GfK South Africa. Though absolute unit sales numbers are down, the migration of users towards large-screen devices with high-end features has driven revenue growth for smartphone manufacturers and retailers. With smartphones emerging as the primary internet access device, higher-end consumers are seeking a better user experience for web browsing, video and other applications.The consumer electronics market which includes televisions and audio devices had a strong start to the year, with revenues growing 6.2% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2019. Panel television unit sales were up 5.7% to more than 275,000 units and market value increased more than 9%, helped along by the 45% growth in unit sales and value for ultrahigh definition televisions. However, sales decelerated in audio home systems, receivers, mini speakers and headphones.IT retail had a difficult quarter, with revenues from mobile computer, desktops and storage product all declining. Of the IT categories, only monitors showed significant growth.Other highlights for the first quarter of 2019 include: Help India! By Mohammad Faisal, TwoCircles.net From a humble beginning nearly 240 years ago, the leather tanning industry in Kanpur city of UP grew in leaps and bounds. But it has seen a downfall during the past five years. For the first time nearly 140 leather tanneries have shut their business raising a question on their survival. Support TwoCircles History: Leather industry in Kanpur dates back to 1778 when the East India Company made its foray in the region. Earlier, they were stationed at a nearby mofussil town Bilgram but by the permission of Nawab of Awadh they were allowed to set up their cantonment in Kanpur. They developed the local artisans mainly Dalits in making saddlery for their horses and other leather products. All of them were hand made by the artisans. By 1798, the East India Company got complete control over Kanpur and the trade flourished though in unorganised sector. One of the main products was Mashq (leather bag made from animal hide used to carry water). This Mashq led to the development of art of tanning leather. In the beginning the animal hide was processed with bark of Babool tree which was available in abundance. In 1840, the saddlery made in Kanpur was sent to England in a fair where it was liked by all thus giving a boost to the art. In 1857, after the mutiny the reins passed in the name of Queen Victoria. Now the trade was fledging and in 1859 the first Government Harness and Saddlery Factory was established by Colonel John Stewart. Soon many other factories like Cooper Allen and Company also cropped up. However, no Indian was allowed to set up his leather factory. The first leather factory came up in 1902 in Jajmau and it was followed by several others. All of them in the beginning were owned by Muslims. Non-Muslims preferred other trades as textiles, jute, flour mill etc. The rapid industrialisation of the city earned Kanpur the title of Manchester of East. Naiyer Jamal who has inherited a leather tannery has preciously preserved the history of leather tanning business in Kanpur. Now a days he is sitting idle in his tannery due to the closure. Often spending time with his fellow tanners, Jamal laments the sordid state of affairs. When India became independent in 1947, there were 13 leather tanneries. In 1992 their number stood at 175 which soon rose to 402. But during the last five years due to closures only 260 tanneries are left in Kanpur, Jamal said. The Issue and its affect: Due to a government order, from mid-December last year, nearly 250 leather tanneries in Kanpur have been closed. The closure was to last till March 2019. The reason being that the effluent from these tanneries was discharged in Ganga thus polluting the water. Closure of these units meant that devotees can take holy dip during the recently concluded Kumbh-2019 at Prayagraj. Earlier, it was supposed that after the Kumbh the tanneries will be allowed to function but there has been no such development. Tannery owners believe that it is now no more feasible to run their business in Kanpur. They are contemplating to shift their units to West Bengal where it is reported that government has adopted friendly policies for leather units. As per an estimate due to the closure the industry has suffered a loss of nearly 3000 crores. Kanpur accounts for leather export of nearly 6000 crores. New orders are not coming and old orders are not being completed. Situation has turned to such a state that industrialists have failed to send leather samples to Hong Kong Leather Fair. The total leather business of Kanpur amounts to nearly 12000 crores annually. The units are now facing survival crisis. As per reports many tanneries in Jajmau locality of Kanpur had stock of raw hides. Since, they are unable to process them, they are being sold off at half the price to those units which are functioning in Unnao. Even the drums installed at these tanneries are very costly ranging between 20 lakhs to 10 lakhs. These drums need to be rotated and filled with water. Non-usage of these drums may result in their getting spoiled in future. Many of these drums are imported from other countries. Most of the tanneries have taken loan from bank and due to non-payment it has turned Non Performing Asset. Banks too are now in the process of auctioning the leftover hides to recover their dues. A trader informed that tanneries in Jajmau alone accounted for employment to half a million people. Most of the labours have migrated to other states as it was hard for them manage their expenses. Foreign trade worth Rs 1000 crore has been affected. Several buyers from Greece, Italy, Japan and US have cancelled their orders. Present status: The tannery owners have now approached the Court. As per reports their petition will come up for hearing on May 23. Prior to it government has issued orders to disconnect power connections in nearly 225 tanneries. This was being done to ensure their complete closure. On May 15, tannery owners protested against this decision and blocked national highway. The protest continued for several hours. Police resorted to mild lathcharge amidst stone pelting by protestors. The tannery owners claimed that several families also live inside the tannery compound. Disconnecting power will lead to hardships for them during the month of Ramzan. Presently 225 tanneries are closed since December while 28 are running on partial capacity. Tanners claim that as per past practice they themselves used to close their units three days before each Shahi Snan in Kumbh since water takes three days to reach from Kanpur to Allahabad in Ganga. The stakeholders: Broadly there are three major stakeholders in this crisis. Firstly, the industrialists then UP Jal Nigam and National Green Tribunal. Major issue is of polluting the Ganga river. A tannery owner claimed that all tanneries in the area discharge only 9 Million Litres of water Daily (MLD). This water from the tannery is first treated by the unit itself and then discharged into conveyance channel to Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CTEP) at Wajidpur. After proper treatment, it is then discharged in irrigation channel or Ganga. This CTEP has been set up as a joint venture of tanners and UP Jal Nigam. The tanners even pay monthly processing fee for the treatment of their water. The running of this plant is with UP Jal Nigam. The capacity of CTEP is 36 MLD. Tanners claim that since they do not discharge so much water then from where is this CTEP getting full. Their claim is that it is other waste water from domestic channel and other industrial units but only the tanneries are being targets. Several teams of officials have inspected the tanneries and plant. Fresh directions are received from NGT. Administration too acts on them but the result is that the tanneries remain closed. Political Ramifications: The leather industry has started facing the pinch since 2014. Pech Bagh, a raw hide market in Kanpur now wears a deserted look. In 2015, Abdul Haq, Vice President of Hide Merchants Association had read the writing on the wall. His grandfather has started the raw hide business in 1888 at Pech bagh. Within a year of BJP government at Centre, Haq had then claimed that soon Pech Bagh Hide Market will vanish. The apprehension is coming true. Half of the shops have been converted to readymade garments shops. From approximately 500 members of the association, half of them have left the trade. The remaining sit idle. Hardly a truck load of hide comes in a week. The prices have dropped from Rs 15 lakh per truck to Rs 7 lakh per truck. Most of the traders involved in the leather business are Muslims while the workers are Dalits. This was from the beginning as only these two communities had no hesitation in dealing with animal hide while others had religious sanctities, Jamal said. Both the sections are equally affected. BJP understands very well that both these segments are not going to vote for them. So there is a move to wipe out this trade. Raising a bogey over Ganga and animal hide will further enhance their image, Dr Imran Idris, a state-level office bearer of Samajwadi Party and resident of Kanpur said. The repercussions are being felt not only in markets of Kanpur but in far villages. Skinning of natural dead animals is done by mostly Dalits. Now they try to avoid the transportation and there have been instances of attack while transporting the hide. The source of animal hide is thus drying. Paddington Station PR Cape Town, Eden on the Bay, Bloubergstrand, R 8000 - R 10000 per month 9 Dec 2021 Huntingtons Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis And Treatment Disorders Cure oi-Devika Bandyopadhya Huntington's disease is a progressive brain disorder that is caused by a defective gene. Changes occur in the central area of the brain, in turn, affecting movement, mood and thinking abilities. The defect is considered dominant. When a child inherits it from a parent having Huntington's disease, he or she is sure to eventually develop the disease. Huntington's disease is named after George Huntington, the physician who described this disorder first during the late 1800s. For most of the cases, the first signs begin to show between the ages of 30 and 50 years. Read on to gain more insights on this defect. What Is Huntington's Disease? This is an inherited disease that causes the progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the brain [1] . When this disease develops before the age of 20 years, the condition is called juvenile Huntington's disease [2] . This defect results in the drastic deterioration of a person's physical and mental abilities. This defect is caused by a single defective gene on chromosome 4 (one of the 23 human chromosomes that carry a person's entire genetic code) [3] . The defective gene codes the blueprint for a protein called huntingtin [4] . This defective huntingtin protein causes brain changes that result in abnormal involuntary movements, depression, a severe decline in reasoning abilities, extreme irritability and other mood changes. Causes Of Huntington's Disease It is caused by an inherited defect in a single gene. This condition is an autosomal dominant disorder (a person would need only one copy of the defective gene to develop this defect) [5] . A parent having a defective gene can pass on either the defective copy of the gene or the healthy copy. Therefore, each child in the family holds a 50 per cent chance of inheriting the gene that causes this genetic disorder. Research says that the huntingtin gene defect involves extra repeats of one specific chemical code in one small section of chromosome 4. Under normal circumstances, the huntingtin gene includes 17 to 20 repetitions of this code. In case of the defect, there are 40 or more repeats [6] . When genetic tests are conducted to determine this disorder, the number of repeats present in an individual's huntingtin protein gene is measured. Symptoms Of Huntington's Disease The prime symptoms can be related to movement, cognitive and psychiatric disorders. Movement disorders: It can include both involuntary movement problems and impairments in voluntary movements. These usually include the following [7] : Muscular problems such as dystonia Involuntary jerking movements Abnormal eye movements Impaired gait, balance and posture Difficulty during speech or swallowing Cognitive disorders: The cognitive impairments associated with this disorder include the following [8] : Difficulty in learning new information Difficulty organizing or prioritizing tasks Lack of flexibility Outbursts due to lack of impulse control Lack of awareness of one's abilities Slowed down processing power Psychiatric disorders: The most common disorder is depression, which occurs due to an injury of the brain or due to changes in the brain's functionality. The following are the major signs [9] : Social withdrawal Fatigue Loss of energy Suicidal thoughts Insomnia Feeling irritated and sad Other common psychiatric disorders include mania, obsessive-compulsive disorder and bipolar disorder. Weight loss is also common in people with Huntington's disease [10] . There could be severe risks of choking during the later stages of this disorder. Symptoms of juvenile Huntington's disease: The start and progression of this disorder in younger people can be slightly different than that in adults. The following early signs can be observed [11] : Changes in fine motor skills Seizures Contracted and rigid muscles Tremors Behavioural problems Loss of previously learnt physical or academic skills A rapid drop in school performance. Complications Associated With Huntington's Disease Being unable to do things that were quite easy earlier can lead to depression and frustration. Extreme weight loss can turn a person's immune system very weak [12] . This would make the person more vulnerable to infections. Although Huntington's disease itself is not fatal, choking, pneumonia, etc. can lead to death. The clinical depression associated with Huntington's disease can increase the risk of suicide. As the disease progresses, the patient would need help with all activities of daily life. Later stages of the disease involve the person being confined to the bed and unable to speak. Studies reveal that the time from this disorder's emergence to the death of the suffering person is often about 10 to 30 years [13] . In the case of juvenile Huntington's disease, death usually occurs within 10 years after symptoms develop [14] . Diagnosis Of Huntington's Disease A preliminary diagnosis is conducted based on the person's answers to questions followed by a general examination, review of the family history and neurological and psychiatric examinations. The following methods are used to reach a conclusive diagnosis: 1. Neurological examination: Followed by a questionnaire, your neurologist would conduct simple tests to judge the following [15] : Motor symptoms: These include checking for muscle strength, reflexes, balance, coordination and muscle tone. Sensory symptoms: These include testing for hearing, sense of touch, vision and eye movement. These include testing for hearing, sense of touch, vision and eye movement. Psychiatric symptoms: These include testing for mood and mental status. 2. Neuropsychological testing: The following standardized tests are performed for assessment [16] : Reasoning Mental agility Language function Spatial reasoning Memory [HD memory image] 3. Psychiatric evaluation: Your doctor may ask you to consult a psychiatrist who can judge various factors that are essential to contribute to your diagnosis. These include the following [17] : Coping skills Emotional state Patterns of behaviour Quality of judgement Evidence of substance abuse Signs of disordered thinking 4. Genetic counselling and testing: If symptoms are strong enough, your doctor may ask you to go for a genetic test for the defective gene [18] . This test can confirm the diagnosis. This test is quite beneficial if there is no known family history of Huntington's disease. 5. Predictive genetic test: A person who has a family history of this disease but does not show any signs of it can be given a predictive genetic test. Although this form of testing does not provide any treatment benefit. Few might want to do it just to be sure that they do not have this disorder [19] . However, such genetic forms of testing can only be performed after consultation with a genetic counsellor. 6. Brain imaging and function: There might be a need to assess the structure or function of the brain. This is done through brain-imaging tests. The imaging techniques used include MRI or CT scans [20] . The resulting images may indicate structural changes in particular regions of the brain. Treatment For Huntington's Disease Currently, there is no treatment for this defect [21] . There is no cure for reversing its progression or slowing it down. Nevertheless, symptoms can be managed with therapies and medications. Medications: Management of the symptoms through medication evolve over the course of the disease. Medicines are known to lessen some symptoms of movement and psychiatric disorders. However, the drugs used can cause certain side effects. The usual medications prescribed are as follows: Tetrabenazine: This suppresses the involuntary movements [22] . A serious side effect of this involves worsening depression. Antipsychotic drugs: These are beneficial in treating chorea (a neurological disorder that is characterized by jerky involuntary movements) [23] . However, as a side effect, it can lead to worsening of involuntary contractions. Medications to suppress chorea: Amantadine, levetiracetam and clonazepam are known to work very well in treating chorea [24] . However, at high doses, amantadine can worsen the cognitive effects of this disorder. Levetiracetam causes nausea, mood swings and stomach upset. Clonazepam has a high risk of dependence and abuse. Medications for psychiatric disorder: Antidepressants such as citalopram, fluoxetine and sertraline can be used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder [25] . Side effects might include diarrhoea, drowsiness and low blood pressure. Antipsychotic drugs such as quetiapine, risperidone and olanzapine can be used to suppress violent outbursts and other various mood disorders. Mood-stabilizing drugs such as anticonvulsants can help in the prevention of the highs and lows associated with bipolar disorder. Psychotherapy: Talk therapy is provided to the person to manage behavioural issues [26] . Such a therapy can also help in developing coping strategies, management of expectations during the progression of the disease and facilitate effective communication among family members. Speech therapy: A therapist can work towards the improvement of the patient's ability to speak clearly [27] . Speech therapists can also work with resolving issues related to eating and swallowing. Physical therapy: Appropriate and safe exercises can enhance the patient's strength, balance, flexibility and coordination [28] . The use of supports to improve posture can help lessen the severity of some movement problems. Occupational therapy [28] : Family members of the patient can be taught the benefits of using assistive devices to improve the functional abilities of the person with the defect. Use of handrails at home, using eating utensils adapted for people with limited fine motor skills and the use of devices for providing assistance during a bath, etc. can go a long way in preventing limitations when it comes to daily life routines of the person with the disorder. Huntington's Disease Managing Tips For The Caregiver The following tips might be helpful for the person who is responsible for taking care of someone who is suffering from Huntington's disease: Provide more than three meals a day as the person with this defect would have higher caloric needs due to physical exertion or unknown metabolic problems [29] . . Provide foods that are easier to eat. Use utensils designed for people with limited fine motor skills. Maintain a calendar to keep a regular routine. Break down tasks for the patient into manageable steps. Create a calm and simple environment. Identify and avoid stressors that can trigger outbursts [30] . On A Final Note... Managing Huntington's disease is demanding not just for the person suffering with it but also for his or her family members. As the disease progresses, the person would only become more dependent on the caregiver. Talking to the doctor openly will help you understand strategies that can help while coping with this ailment. Scientists hope to find a solution to this disease in the form of gene therapy. Research is extensively underway to find a possible way out to cure, prevent or at least slow down Huntington's disease. View Article References [1] Nopoulos P. C. (2016). Huntington disease: a single-gene degenerative disorder of the striatum.Dialogues in clinical neuroscience,18(1), 9198. [2] Quigley, J. (2017). Juvenile Huntingtons disease: diagnostic and treatment considerations for the psychiatrist.Current psychiatry reports,19(2), 9. [3] Bouchard, C. (1994).The genetics of obesity. CRC press. [4] Schulte, J., & Littleton, J. T. (2011). The biological function of the Huntingtin protein and its relevance to Huntington's Disease pathology.Current trends in neurology,5, 6578. [5] Bernhardt, B. A., Zayac, C., & Pyeritz, R. E. (2011). Why is genetic screening for autosomal dominant disorders underused in families? The case of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia.Genetics in medicine : official journal of the American College of Medical Genetics,13(9), 812820. [6] Roos, R. A. (2010). Huntington's disease: a clinical review.Orphanet journal of rare diseases,5(1), 40. [7] Squitieri, F., Berardelli, A., Nargi, E., Castellotti, B., Mariotti, C., Cannella, M., ... & Ruggieri, S. (2000). Atypical movement disorders in the early stages of Huntington's disease: clinical and genetic analysis.Clinical genetics,58(1), 50-56. [8] Paulsen J. S. (2011). Cognitive impairment in Huntington disease: diagnosis and treatment.Current neurology and neuroscience reports,11(5), 474483. [9] Julien, C. L., Thompson, J. C., Wild, S., Yardumian, P., Snowden, J. S., Turner, G., & Craufurd, D. (2007). Psychiatric disorders in preclinical Huntington's disease.Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry,78(9), 939943. [10] Aziz, N. A., Van Der Burg, J. M. M., Landwehrmeyer, G. B., Brundin, P., Stijnen, T., Roos, R. A. C., & EHDI Study Group. (2008). Weight loss in Huntington disease increases with higher CAG repeat number.Neurology,71(19), 1506-1513. [11] Quarrell, O. W., Nance, M. A., Nopoulos, P., Paulsen, J. S., Smith, J. A., & Squitieri, F. (2013). Managing juvenile Huntington's disease.Neurodegenerative disease management,3(3), 10.2217/nmt.13.18. [12] Olejniczak, M., Urbanek, M. O., & Krzyzosiak, W. J. (2015). The role of the immune system in triplet repeat expansion diseases.Mediators of inflammation,2015, 873860. [13] Tang, C., & Feigin, A. (2012). Monitoring Huntington's disease progression through preclinical and early stages.Neurodegenerative disease management,2(4), 421435. [14] Sunwoo, J. S., Lee, S. T., & Kim, M. (2010). A case of juvenile huntington disease in a 6-year-old boy.Journal of movement disorders,3(2), 4547. [15] McCusker, E., Richards, F., Sillence, D., Wilson, M., & Trent, R. J. (2000). Huntingtons disease: neurological assessment of potential gene carriers presenting for predictive DNA testing.Journal of clinical neuroscience,7(1), 38-41. [16] Panegyres, P. K., & Goh, J. G. (2011). The neurology and natural history of patients with indeterminate CAG repeat length mutations of the Huntington disease gene.Journal of the neurological sciences,301(1-2), 14-20. [17] Clabough E. B. (2013). Huntington's disease: the past, present, and future search for disease modifiers.The Yale journal of biology and medicine,86(2), 217233. [18] Nance, M. A. (2017). Genetic counseling and testing for Huntington's disease: A historical review.American Journal of Medical Genetics Part B: Neuropsychiatric Genetics,174(1), 75-92. [19] Muthane U. (2011). Predictive genetic testing in Huntington's disease.Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology,14(Suppl 1), S29S30. [20] Niccolini, F., & Politis, M. (2014). Neuroimaging in Huntington's disease.World journal of radiology,6(6), 301312. [21] Wild E. J. (). Huntington's Disease: The Most Curable Incurable Brain Disorder?.EBioMedicine,8, 34. [22] Paleacu D. (2007). Tetrabenazine in the treatment of Huntington's disease.Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment,3(5), 545551. [23] Burke, R. E., Fahn, S., Mayeux, R., Weinberg, H., Louis, K., & Willner, J. H. (1981). Neuroleptic malignant syndrome caused by dopaminedepleting drugs in a patient with Huntington disease.Neurology,31(8), 1022-1022. [24] Coppen, E. M., & Roos, R. A. (2017). Current Pharmacological Approaches to Reduce Chorea in Huntington's Disease.Drugs,77(1), 2946. [25] Then, C. K., Liu, K. H., Liao, M. H., Chung, K. H., Wang, J. Y., & Shen, S. C. (2017). Antidepressants, sertraline and paroxetine, increase calcium influx and induce mitochondrial damage-mediated apoptosis of astrocytes.Oncotarget,8(70), 115490115502. [26] La Spada A. R. (2018). A Novel Therapy for Huntington's Disease.Cerebrum : the Dana forum on brain science,2018, cer-11-18. [27] Skodda, S., Schlegel, U., Hoffmann, R., & Saft, C. (2014). Impaired motor speech performance in Huntingtons disease.Journal of Neural Transmission,121(4), 399-407. [28] Bilney, B., Morris, M. E., & Perry, A. (2003). Effectiveness of physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech pathology for people with Huntington's disease: a systematic review.Neurorehabilitation and neural repair,17(1), 12-24. [29] Marder, K., Zhao, H., Eberly, S., Tanner, C. M., Oakes, D., Shoulson, I., & Huntington Study Group (2009). Dietary intake in adults at risk for Huntington disease: analysis of PHAROS research participants.Neurology,73(5), 385392. [30] Pla, P., Orvoen, S., Saudou, F., David, D. J., & Humbert, S. (2014). Mood disorders in Huntington's disease: from behavior to cellular and molecular mechanisms.Frontiers in behavioral neuroscience,8, 135. Former President Almazbek Atambayev stepped down as chairman of the Social Democratic Party of Kyrgyzstan (SDPK) and suspended his membership in the party. Such a decision was dictated by the adoption of amendments to the Law on Guarantees of the President's Activities by the Parliament, which calls for the prosecution of former presidents. According to experts, the current version of the law is more like a tool against Atambayev. A meeting of the SDPK political council was held in Bishkek recently, during which Atambayev resigned as its chairman and suspended his membership in the party. MP Asel Koduranova was named acting chairman of the SDPK. According to member of the party's political council Adil Turdukulov, such a decision was dictated by the adoption of amendments to the Law on Guarantees of the President's Activities by the Parliament. Kyrgyz politician Ravshan Dzheenbekov explained Vestnik Kavkaza that in accordance with the law, the former head of state, if he is actively involved in politics, being a party member, is deprived of all privileges, including immunity. The issue of lifting ex-presidents of immunity was first raised by Kyrgyz deputies last year, when an investigation for the accident at the Bishkek Thermal Power Plant was opened. Two former prime ministers - Sapar Isakov and Jantoro Satybaldiev, ex-Energy Minister Osmonbek Artykbayev, former Finance Minister Olga Lavrova, former head of National Energy Holding Aibek Kaliyev and several middle managers are accused of negligence and corruption during the modernization of the thermal power plant. Almazbek Atambayev is accused of corruption, however, according to the Law on Guarantees of the President's Activities adopted earlier, he could not be brought to trial. Then it was decided to amend the law on presidential immunity. Now the authorities have a chance to arrest Atambayev because he is still engaged in political activities. SDPK is preparing to appeal the changes concerning lifting the ex-president of immunity in the Constitutional Chamber, since the adopted amendments contradict the Constitution and violate human rights, according to SDPK lawyer Nurbek Kasymbekov. According to Ravshan Dzheenbekov, the withdrawal of immunity is a rather complicated and long procedure. The Parliament has the right to initiate it, prosecutors are to agree. After that, with a two-thirds vote, the status of the ex-president is removed and only after that he can be brought to justice. "Atambayev decided to go into the shadows. But I am sure that he, being an experienced person, upset with his protege, will stay in politics. Now he has decided not to give a legal reason," Dzheenbekov said. He believes that Atambayev will manage his party as before, participate in political life, but unofficially. "For Kyrgyzstan, it's a normal phenomenon. Many oligarchs are actively engaged in politics. They have created their own parties or are behind some parties. For example, those parties that are represented in the parliament today have their own 'masters', who have led their people to the parliament and let them be there. Politics is not just a public thing. There are very few public politicians in Kyrgyzstan. Many are involved in politics unofficially," Ravshan Dzheenbekov explained. Director General of the Analytical Center 'Strategy East-West' Dmitry Orlov told Vestnik Kavkaza that Atambayev had just cleverly cleared himself of the line of fire. And whileKyrgyz deputies and politicians were busy with disputes on various issues, Atambayev did the main thing: he reassembled the SDPK. Maybe his party is smaller now, but only the most motivated left there. I don't know the current number of SDPK members, but even several hundred well-motivated people is very serious for Kyrgyzstan," the expert noted. According to Orlov, if the SDPK continues to operate both online and offline, it may have strong positions in a year. And everyone understands who is its real chairman. Moreover, it will be even easier for the Social Democrats to act, because no one will reproach them with Atambayevs mistakes. Of course, Atambayev cannot make political statements now. On the one hand, it seems to be bad for him. On the other hand, it seems that he has already said everything for now, and everything will work further without his participation. The fact that time does not work for Zheenbekov and the current government works for the benefit of the SDPK. Almost a third of his presidential term is behind, but he has not made any progress. Only those can speak about the growth of GDP who does not know that it can grow, regardless of whether twenty people or two hundred work in the country," Orlov stressed. A reasonable question arises, if Atambaev's officials, as they say in Kyrgyzstan, were completely incompetent and/or thievish, then why Zheenbekov's officials are also like that? It would seem that one can say: "I am not Atambayev - I am better," and even prove it. However, in fact, according to the expert, respect for the government has declined dramatically, and there are no prospects. So, if there is an opposition by the next parliamentary elections, it may have good chances. And I really want it to be formed. Because the power cannot be left alone with the people by definition, Dmitry Orlov said. According to Ravshan Dzheenbekov, the situation in the camp causes concern. Recently, director of the social research company SIAR Ainura Sagynbayeva presented a study of public sentiment. For five to six years, people's moods were optimistic. But the latest survey showed an alarming trend, similar to that of 2005 and 2010. That is, people are dissatisfied with power and revolutionary moods are emerging in the country. Political discontent is growing. The anti-corruption company was discredited. The members of Atambayev's team are convicted on corruption charges . There is a selective struggle against corruption, which is politically motivated. The situation is not unique, as it was the case under previous presidents," Dzheenbekov said. He also noted that the rating of the government and the prime minister is the lowest in the entire history of Kyrgyzstan. Ministers resign almost every day. Finance Minister Oleg Pankratov resigned recently. And he was the strongest minister of recent years. If he left, then what can we talk about?" Ravshan Dzheenbekov left his question unanswered. The Crown has asked the court to consider a sentence of seven years for a man convicted of manslaughter by a jury last month, calling his actions although provoked particularly brutal. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us The Crown has asked the court to consider a sentence of seven years for a man convicted of manslaughter by a jury last month, calling his actions although provoked particularly brutal. Crown attorney Rich Lonstrup also argued on Monday the accused, Dakota Catlyn Jordan Pratt, was not entitled to enhanced credit for time already spent in custody due to a lack of good behaviour while in custody. Defence counsel staunchly disagreed with the Crowns recommendation for sentencing as well as Pratts entitlement for enhanced credit, which would allow his pre-sentence custody to count for time and a half. Pratt, 28, stood trial in Brandon Court of Queens Bench for second-degree murder in relation to the death of Vincent Bunn, who was found dead on the steps of his aunts home in Birdtail Sioux First Nation in the early morning hours of Sept. 2, 2016. Pratt admitted to stabbing Bunn but said it was an act of self-defence, testifying during trial that Bunn came into his room and stabbed him in the head when he was sleeping while threatening to kill him. The two got in a struggle that spilled out of the home onto the front deck, where Bunn was ultimately stabbed to death. An autopsy revealed Bunn had sustained 13 sharp-force injuries and 32 blunt-force injuries during the struggle, with the fatal wound being a puncture through the heart. A jury rejected Pratts self-defence claim, finding Prattnot guilty of second-degree murder but guilty of manslaughter. "Vincent Bunns death has emotionally devastated his family," Lonstrup told the court, referring to victim impact statements submitted by Bunns family describing significant grief. The Crown accepted that Pratts actions were a result of "extreme provocation" in which Bunn had stabbed Pratt in the head while he was sleeping, Lonstrup said. "What is the appropriate sentence for someone who is not the initial aggressor in a violent altercation, but someone who has been victimized and whose lethal acts were a response rather than an initiation of violence?" Lonstrup said. However, this wasnt a case where Pratt inflicted one fatal wound, but multiple sharp force and blunt force injuries, which was particularily aggravating, Lonstrup said. Pratt has also not demonstrated good behaviour while in custody including assaulting a fellow inmate and threatening a corrections officer, Lonstrup said, suggesting he was disentitled to a credit for time he already served. Pratts lawyer, Matthew Gould, argued that Pratt has already been disciplined in custody for his missteps and learned his lesson. "To not give him enhanced custody is its off the scale for the reality of the situation," Gould said. The initial incident was also an unusual one in that Pratt only had seconds to figure out what was going on and react to being stabbed in the head while sleeping, Gould said, noting the jury came to the conclusion that Pratt did not have the mindset for murder. Pratt has also expressed significant and genuine remorse for Bunns death, Gould said. "In (the pre-sentence report) he stated its on his mind every day. He wished the situation could have been resolved differently," Gould said. "(Pratt) outlines that he deserves to suffer." Gould asked the court to consider a sentence of three years in custody. Justice Robert Cummings reserved his decision which is expected to be delivered next week. edebooy@brandonsun.com Twitter: @erindebooy Brandon foodies have a new restaurant to try out. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us A worker puts the finishing touches on the exterior of Original Joe's Restaurant & Bar earlier this month. (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun) Brandon foodies have a new restaurant to try out. Original Joes Restaurant & Bar held its grand opening on Monday at its freestanding location on the grounds of Shoppers Mall, next to the joint Harveys/Swiss Chalet restaurant. The building seats just under 100 patrons and can double its capacity in the summer using its patio. Franchisee Rick Baker said that the restaurant employs just under 60 people. The Sun previously reported in March that the building was originally being built for a Fionn MacCools location, but when that opportunity fell through mid-construction, Baker took over the project in a new direction. Franchisee Rick Baker (right) and assistant manager Ashley Maxymowich stand behind the bar of the newly-opened Original Joe's restaurant at Shoppers Mall. (Colin Slark/Brandon Sun) Baker, who carries 17 years of experience in the restaurant industry, moved to Brandon from Winnipeg last October with the aim of opening an Original Joes location. He does have ties to the city, though his mother was from Brandon. "Ive been around Brandon my whole life," Baker said. "For weekends and holidays wed always come up here." Baker told The Sun that his favourite parts about life in Brandon are the lack of traffic and the layout of the city. "Its another great option for people to experience," Baker said about what Original Joes brings to Brandon. Original Joes is operated by Recipe Unlimited Corporation, which also runs chains like Harveys, Swiss Chalet, Montanas and East Side Marios. "Every new business is great," said Coun. Ron Brown (Richmond). "But we are seeing a lot of new restaurants. Id like to see some more commercial-type businesses." "We definitely need industrial business to employ more people," Brown added. "I see a lot of people still going to Winnipeg and other different places to shop. It would be nice to keep them here." "One thing I hear women comment about is (they want) more places to shop for clothing and stuff." Baker said that he plans for Brandons Original Joes to be added to Skip The Dishes delivery service in a couple months, after things have settled. The restaurant is open seven days a week and offers brunch on weekends and holidays. cslark@brandonsun.com Twitter: @ColinSlark A man and a girl from Brandon were taken to hospital after a car flipped over south of the city on Monday. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us 27052019 A Brandon Fire and Emergency Services member looks over the damage to a vehicle that rolled on 1st Street approximately 1 KM south of the Highway 110 bypass route over the noon-hour on Monday. The vehicle was heavily damaged in the collision but both occupants, a male and a female, escaped with only minor injuries. (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun) A man and a girl from Brandon were taken to hospital after a car flipped over south of the city on Monday. RCMP Cpl. Mike Boychuk said Blue Hills RCMP officers responded to the incident at 12:24 p.m. on Monday. The 20-year-old male driver told police he swerved to avoid a rabbit, then hit the ditch. A 17-year-old girl was in the passenger seat at the time. The crash happened near First Street, a few miles south of Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School. The car was very extensively damaged, Boychuk said, adding that its lucky neither occupant was killed. Airbags in the car deployed and both people were wearing seatbelts. Alcohol or drugs are not considered to be a factor. Both people were taken to hospital in stable condition after the crash. The Brandon Sun OTTAWA - Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer says if he is elected prime minister in the fall, he'll want to make sure the CBC is telling enough Canadian stories. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer speaks about his economic vision at an event hosted by the Canadian Club of Vancouver, in Vancouver, on Friday May 24, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck OTTAWA - Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer says if he is elected prime minister in the fall, he'll want to make sure the CBC is telling enough Canadian stories. In an interview with The Canadian Press this week, Scheer said he'd like to scrutinize the national public broadcaster to see that it is "focusing on Canadian stories." "It's appropriate to look and say when the CBC was first introduced decades ago, there wasn't the ability to get content on smartphones, there wasn't the ability to get hundreds and hundreds of channels on TV through satellites," Scheer said. "We have a situation now where we have a much different model when it comes to news and media and content creation and it's time that we look at how the CBC fits into all of that." Scheer also pointed to an increased focus on international stories and, in particular, American politics across all CBC platforms in recent years. "When we look and see how much coverage is devoted on CBC to U.S. politics, the inner workings of U.S. politics, making sure that it's focused on the things that are going on here in Canada I think that's something that many Canadians have said we should ensure that it's focused on the core mandate of being concentrated on Canada." A CBC spokesperson defended the international focus, saying the corporation is focused on covering news wherever it happens, to help Canadians understand the implications of important events. "Whether it's Brexit or the Middle East, U.S. politics, pipeline debates or flooding in local communities, Canadians trust CBC/Radio-Canada to keep them informed," Kerry Kelly, the Crown corporation's senior manager of public relations, said in a statement. When asked if he would reduce government funding to the CBC, Scheer did not directly answer, saying that he has only ever promoted the idea of ensuring the broadcaster is doing the work it is mandated to do. But he did question whether the CBC's foray into soliciting advertising revenues has created a "distorting effect" on the media market with a publicly funded broadcaster competing against struggling private news companies for dwindling advertising dollars. "We have to make sure the CBC's impact in that is not creating an undue hurdle against those private-sector entities that are trying to stay afloat and now have to compete with a government-subsidized entity that is also going out into the market to sell ads to get viewership." According to its 2017-18 annual report, the CBC generated $318.4 million in total advertising revenues across all of its media and languages that year, with $42.6 million of it coming from digital advertising. This is in addition to over $1.2 billion in funding it received in the same year from the federal government. The Trudeau government has pledged an additional $150 million to the CBC every year through to 2021 as part of a major boost to cultural spending rolled out shortly after the 2015 election. The corporation acknowledged in its annual report that digital ad revenues are growing, but said this growth is "not significant enough to offset the decline observed in TV advertising." It also pointed to increased competition from "large global players" presumably companies with streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon that are not subject to the same regulations as Canadian media companies and that do not contribute financially to the Canadian media ecosystem as the biggest threat to the Canadian media market. "These companies are not simply distributors of content; they are major investors in and creators of content, substantially increasing production budgets," the annual report says. "They have access to combined potential markets 100 times greater than that of Canada and can use economies of scale to monetize their programming and infrastructure investments. They have access to massive amounts of data, allowing them to effectively develop and curate content for their audiences. All of this makes it harder for domestic regulated companies to compete." OTTAWA - A panel of international politicians vented anger at Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg on Tuesday after the Facebook executives snubbed their summons to appear at the international grand committee on big data, privacy and democracy in Ottawa. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Jim Balsillie, Council of Canadian Innovators, arrives to appear as a witness at a Commons privacy and ethics committee in Ottawa on May 10, 2018. A Canadian high-tech pioneer says a "toxic" social media business model is a threat to democracy. Jim Balsillie, the retired chief executive of Research In Motion, which invented the Blackberry smart phone, offers that grim warning in testimony today before the international grand committee on big data, privacy and democracy. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick OTTAWA - A panel of international politicians vented anger at Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg on Tuesday after the Facebook executives snubbed their summons to appear at the international grand committee on big data, privacy and democracy in Ottawa. The committee's chair, Conservative MP Bob Zimmer, called it "abhorrent" the two did not appear, and he closed a marathon session of testimony by telling the two Facebook employees who were sent in their place that it was "shameful" their bosses didn't show up. The committee, comprising politicians from Canada, Britain, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, France, Ireland, Latvia, St. Lucia, Ecuador and Singapore, is examining the role of internet giants in safeguarding privacy and democratic rights. Zuckerberg and Sandberg were called to testify but did not appear. Representatives of Twitter and Google also testified, but it was Facebook's two corporate pinch-hitters who drew the wrath of committee members. Their collective frustration grew as Kevin Chan and Neil Potts, Facebook global policy directors, separated by two empty chairs bearing Zuckerberg and Sandberg's names, were grilled about past company conduct, including its decision this week to permit postings of a doctored video meant to portray U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as slurring her words, addled or possibly drunk. The video was labelled false, and users were made aware of that classification, Potts said. "This sets a very dangerous precedent," said British MP Damian Collins, the committee's co-chair. Edwin Tong, a Singapore MP, clashed with Potts over how Facebook responded to postings from last fall that heralded the violence that came to pass in the Easter Sunday suicide-bomb attacks on three churches in Sri Lanka that left 250 dead. Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics Chair Bob Zimmer and members of the International Grand Committee on Big Data, Privacy and Democracy listen to a question from media during a news conference in Ottawa, Tuesday, May 28, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld "Let me suggest to you that you don't remove it because such content, being sensational, inciting fear, violence, hatred, conspiracy theories ... is what drives eyeballs to your platform this is what drives users to your platforms, and that is the engine room of your profit mechanism," said Tong. Potts shot back: "Mr. Tong, I reject the premise." Some MPs questioned why Zuckerberg meets world leaders behind closed doors, but chooses to send other officials from his company to field the public questions of lawmakers at the committee. His and Sandberg's absence on Tuesday has only fuelled skepticism about Facebook's promises to operate in a transparent manner. New Democrat Charlie Angus said the pair's absence showed disrespect to legislators around the world. "Facebook has serious responsibilities in terms of the misuse of the platform that has led to mass killings in Myanmar, the undermining of electoral systems around the world, the attack on private rights and citizen rights," he said. "Mr. Zuckerberg has stated his willingness to work with legislators but he seems to blow us off whenever it seems we want to ask him questions." The MPs, led by Angus, voted to serve a summons on the pair, compelling them to appear before the group the next time either sets foot on Canadian soil. "As soon as they step foot either Mr. Zuckerberg or Ms. Sandberg into our country they will be served and expected to appear before our committee," said Zimmer. If they refuse, he added, they will be held in contempt. It was not clear exactly what consequences that might have. Jim Balsillie, the former chief executive of Research In Motion, which invented the BlackBerry smartphone, testified earlier Tuesday that a "toxic" social media business model is a threat to democracy. Balsillie also offered a thinly veiled criticism of Zuckerberg and Sandberg for not responding to the committee's summons to testify. "By displacing the print and broadcast media in influencing public opinion, technology is becoming the new fourth estate. In our system of checks and balances, this makes technology co-equal with the executive, the legislative, and the judiciary," he said. "When this new fourth estate declines to appear before this committee as Silicon Valley executives are currently doing it is symbolically asserting this aspirational co-equal status ... The work of this international grand committee is a vital first step towards redress of this untenable current situation." Balsillie, now the chair of the Ontario-based Centre for International Governance Innovation, said technology, if left unchecked, will displace print and broadcast media, and he urged a panel of politicians to impose restrictions on big internet companies. "Social media's toxicity is not a bug it's a feature," he told the committee, kicking off the second of three days of meetings in Ottawa aimed at figuring out how best to protect citizens' privacy and democratic fairness in the age of social media. Federal privacy commissioner Daniel Therrien told the committee that "freedom and democracy cannot exist without privacy and the protection of our personal information." Therrien last month concluded that Facebook violated Canadian privacy laws by failing to ensure political consultancy Cambridge Analytica got clear consent to use individuals personal information. He is going to court to force Facebook to comply with privacy laws. Cambridge Analytica allegedly gained improper access to some 87 million Facebook users' personal information and used it to try to influence the outcome of the 2016 U.S. presidential election and the Brexit referendum in the U.K. Therrien said the scandal "reminded citizens that privacy is a fundamental right and a necessary precondition for the exercise of other fundamental rights, including democracy." Ellen Weintraub, chair of the U.S. Federal Election Commission, recounted the "chilling" evidence of sweeping and systemic Russian interference in the 2016 American election, hacking into computer systems and using fake news and phoney social media accounts to bolster Donald Trump's campaign, exacerbate societal divisions and undermine Americans' faith in democracy. "Facebook's originating philosophy of 'move fast and break things,' cooked up 16 years ago in a college dorm room, has breathtaking consequences when the thing they're breaking is our democracies themselves," she said. This week's meeting of the grand committee the second since last year's inaugural gathering in Britain is being hosted by the House of Commons committee on access to information, privacy and ethics. After going through something as life-altering as a car accident, the best thing you can get out of it is... President Donald Trump backed the Japanese prime minister's interest in using his country's good relations with Iran to help broker a possible dialogue between the U.S. and its nemesis in the Middle East. NBCnews reports in its article Trump says he backs Japan's efforts to talk with Iran that Trump, who has said he's open to having a dialogue with Iran, has sought to downplay fears of military conflict, but the Iranians have said they have no interest in communicating with the White House. Trump commented during a day that opened with the high pageantry of his meeting with Japan's emperor but quickly gave way to deliberations over thorny global issues, including North Korea, trade tensions with his Japanese host and the escalating friction between the U.S. and Iran. "I know that the prime minister and Japan have a very good relationship with Iran so we'll see what happens," he said while meeting with Abe in Tokyo. "The prime minister's already spoken to me about that and I do believe that Iran would like to talk. And if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also. We'll see what happens ... nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me." Trump has imposed tough new sanctions on Iran, which are crippling its economy. Late last week, he announced the deployment of 1,500 U.S. troops to the region amid escalating tensions. The U.S. earlier deployed an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Persian Gulf in response to intelligence of Iranian threats to U.S. interests in the region. Trump and Abe held discussions after the U.S. president became the first world leader to meet Japan's new emperor, Naruhito, who ascended to the throne May 1. As he sat with Abe, Trump noted the significance of meeting the emperor. Naruhito took the throne after his father stepped down, the first abdication in Japan's royal family in about two centuries. It was Abe, not the emperor, who invited the president a move meant to curry favor with the Trump, who is threatening to impose potentially devastating tariffs on Japan's auto industry. Trump has suggested he will impose the levies if the U.S. can't win concessions from Japan and the European Union. Japan's trade surplus surged almost 18% in April to 723 billion yen ($6.6 billion). Trump said he wants to get "the balance of trade ... straightened out rapidly." "I think we will be announcing some things probably in August that will be very good for both countries," Trump said, adding that Japan has "been doing much more business with us and we'd like to do a little bit more business in the reverse." Trump said he had a good feeling that the nuclear standoff with North Korea will be resolved. "I may be right, I may be wrong. But I feel that we've come a long way. There's been no rocket testing, there's been no nuclear testing," he said. North Korea has not tested long-range missiles that could hit the United States. But earlier this month, North Korea fired off a series of short-range missiles that alarmed U.S. allies in closer proximity to North Korea. National Security Adviser John Bolton said violated U.N. Security Council resolutions. The tests broke a pause in North Korea's ballistic missile launches that began in late 2017. North Korea on Monday called Bolton a "war monger" and "defective human product" after he called the tests on May 4 and May 9 a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions. The tests have been seen as a way for North Korea to pressure Washington to soften its stance on easing sanctions against it without actually causing the negotiations to collapse. "We'll see what happens," Trump said in Tokyo. "There's a good respect built maybe a great respect built between certainly the United States and North Korea. We will see what happens." WINNIPEG - A Crown prosecutor argued Tuesday that a man accused of killing a woman whose body was found in a barrel in their backyard used physical and psychological abuse to manipulate multiple women who lived in the home. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us WINNIPEG - A Crown prosecutor argued Tuesday that a man accused of killing a woman whose body was found in a barrel in their backyard used physical and psychological abuse to manipulate multiple women who lived in the home. "Mr. Cleveland controlled every aspect of that home that he called his kingdom," Breta Passler said during closing arguments in the jury trial of Perez Cleveland. Perez Cleveland is seen in this undated police handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO, Winnipeg Police Service *MANDATORY CREDIT* Cleveland, 46, has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder in the 2016 death of 42-year-old Jennifer Barrett. Court has heard that Cleveland shared a house in Winnipeg with his adult daughter and five women, who were described by one of them as "sister wives." "Mr. Cleveland had a great deal of power over the women in that house and he abused that power," Passler said. The defence argued the household was held together by shared drug use and said there's no evidence to prove Cleveland caused Barrett's death. The women all had unique vulnerabilities, said Passler, who added that each had eerily similar stories about how Cleveland was initially charming before he turned abusive and controlling. Holley Sullivan, 30, told jurors earlier in the trial that she started dating Cleveland in 2010, when she was 21 and he was 36. She detailed years of physical violence including beatings with extension cords and hammers, the use of crossbows and a staging of a so-called kill room from the television show "Dexter." Sullivan said Cleveland's favourite phrase was: "If you cannot listen, then you must feel." Jessica Reid, 36, said she met Cleveland in 2015 when she was buying methamphetamine, but soon after their relationship turned romantic. She too was physically abused, she told court. Barrett was kept in the home's basement in the summer of 2016, the women testified, because Cleveland claimed she had been cheating on him. The Crown added that Barrett began to fear for her life even though she had described herself as his submissive in a relationship document police uncovered. One of the women testified that after Barrett tried to escape, she was covered in bruises and could not lift her arms above her head. Reid told court she saw Barrett stumble out of the basement's laundry room and fall to the floor. Cleveland used a Taser on Barrett's leg to try to get her moving, Reid said. The woman's body jolted, but no other movement followed. The two women said Cleveland ordered them to get rid of the body. Sullivan is serving time after pleading guilty for her role in hiding Barrett's body in the barrel. Reid also faces charges, but her case has not yet gone to trial. Passler told the jury the death was not an accident. "He simply did not care whether she died or not while he assaulted her," she said of Cleveland. Defence lawyer Steve Brennan closed his case by telling the jury that Reid was jealous of Barrett's relationship with Cleveland and had acted violently toward Barrett. Everyone in the house was doing a lot of methamphetamine, Brennan added. He said his client may not be a nice person, but questioned why there were no police or hospital records reflecting the abuse the women described. Court also heard that because of the body's decomposition, there was no way to know what caused Barrett's death. Cleveland may have been controlling or even abusive, Brennan argued, but there's no evidence to show he killed Barrett. The women had the ability to leave the house, the lawyer added, but they were "banded together by their drug addictions." "There are no angels in this case." Quebec's education minister called out a Montreal school Tuesday for its reported practice of locking panicking autistic children into a small and unsafe closet to calm them down. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Quebec Education Minister Jean-Francois Roberge tables a document before question period Tuesday, December 4, 2018 at the legislature in Quebec City. Quebec's education minister called out a Montreal school Tuesday for its reported practice of locking panicking autistic children into a small and unsafe closet to calm them down. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot Quebec's education minister called out a Montreal school Tuesday for its reported practice of locking panicking autistic children into a small and unsafe closet to calm them down. Jean-Francois Roberge was reacting to a news report from Radio-Canada that revealed a school for autistic children used an ill-suited closet as an isolation room for agitated children. Roberge said the francophone school, Ecole de l'Etincelle, "tolerated the intolerable." Quebec "isn't in a underdeveloped country that tolerates putting the health of children in danger," he told reporters. Premier Francois Legault said the government never received a request from the school for more space. He said he appreciates that schools across Quebec are in need of renovations. "But there is nothing that justifies putting autistic kids in a closet," he told reporters. "It's shocking. It's unacceptable." Roberge, a former teacher, said the needs of autistic children who are panicking or agitated need to be taken seriously. They need a spot to calm down that is safe and secure, he said, not a "badly adapted" closet. The minister said he spoke with the chairwoman of the school board, who told him the situation would be handled within a few days. He said the "error" occurred after the school received more students this school year compared with the last one. Roberge said the school board has enough resources to properly renovate the isolation room. And he delivered a message to the heads of school boards across the province. "If there is a dangerous area, don't call the minister to come visit the school in a month. Fix it. OK?" he said. "Find a solution." OTTAWA - Global Affairs officials wanted Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland to tell a senior Chinese Communist Party official in December that China should stop spreading "inaccurate" information about the Canadian justice system following the arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou, The Canadian Press has learned. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland walks to a committee hearing in Ottawa, Tuesday May 28, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld OTTAWA - Global Affairs officials wanted Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland to tell a senior Chinese Communist Party official in December that China should stop spreading "inaccurate" information about the Canadian justice system following the arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou, The Canadian Press has learned. The call never happened, but Freeland was to talk to State Councillor Yang Jiechi, the director of the party's political bureau, on Dec. 20, 10 days after Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were arrested on unspecified national-security charges. Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland waits to appear before the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development in Ottawa, Tuesday May 28, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld The two men remain imprisoned, without access to lawyers or their families, and are receiving consular visits by Canadian diplomats roughly once a month. Meng was arrested in Vancouver on an extradition warrant from the United States and is now under house arrest in a mansion after being released on bail. Meng's arrest incensed China, plunging relations with Canada to an all-time low and sparking numerous allegations that Canada's actions were unlawful or part of a politically motivated play at the behest of the Trump administration in the U.S. Freeland and her fellow cabinet ministers have steadfastly said Meng's arrest is lawful and her rights are being protected. They say she is part of a judicial proceeding that is divorced from political manoeuvring. One week before the scheduled call, Lu Shaye, China's ambassador to Canada, called Meng's arrest a "miscarriage of justice" in an opinion column published by the Globe and Mail newspaper. A briefing note prepared for Freeland's call to Yang suggests that privately the government was bristling at China's depiction that Meng's legal rights were somehow in peril in Canada. "Urge China to desist from inaccurate portrayals of Canada's judicial process and treatment of Ms. Meng," the memorandum states as a main objective after advocating for Kovrig's and Spavor's "immediate release." "As the international community looks on, urge China not to damage bilateral relationship, over a single consular case however high profile." The note, released under the Access to Information Act, urges Freeland to deliver a key message: Canada is treating Meng better than Kovrig and Spavor. "Ms. Meng received consular access, due process, legal counsel and health care since day of arrest," the memo says, and she "continues to be treated fairly by Canadian judicial system; we urge China to grant the same standards for Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor. "It is important to understand that under the Canadian legal system and Constitution there can be no political interference in the judicial process." In January, Lu doubled down in another op-ed, this time in the Hill Times newspaper, writing that China was the victim of a double standard from the U.S. and Britain. "The reason why some people are used to arrogantly adopting double standards is due to Western egotism and white supremacy," Lu wrote. "What they have been doing is not showing respect for the rule of law, but mocking and trampling the rule of law." The December memo to Freeland is also prefaced with another problem that Canada continues to face: her inability to get her Chinese counterpart to talk to her. "In the absence of Foreign Minister Wang Yi, you have requested a call with State Counsellor Yang Jiechi," the memo says. On Tuesday, Freeland told the House of Commons foreign-affairs committee that she's still waiting to speak to Wang. "When it comes to my contacts with my Chinese counterparts, I have spoken on a few occasions directly with the Chinese ambassador to Canada," Freeland said. "I would be happy at any time to have a direct conversation with Wang Yi, the Chinese foreign minister. We have been clear with the Chinese authorities that we are prepared for that conversation at any time." Canada isn't the only country that has dealt with the Chinese government's practice of holding off on meetings "at the highest levels," she added. Freeland also praised Kovrig and Spavor for their courage and resourcefulness while in custody. Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version said that Freeland delivered the messages described in the briefing note. In fact, the phone call did not happen. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer speaks about his economic vision at an event hosted by the Canadian Club of Vancouver in Vancouver, on Friday May 24, 2019. Scheer says if he is elected prime minister in the fall, he'll want to make sure the CBC is telling enough Canadian stories. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck Four stories in the news for Tuesday, May 28 SCRUTINIZE CBC'S WORK FOR CANADIANNESS: SCHEER Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer says if he is elected prime minister in the fall, he'll want to make sure the CBC is telling enough Canadian stories. Scheer tells The Canadian Press he'd like to scrutinize the national public broadcaster to see that it's fulfilling its mandate. He pointed to an increased focus on American politics on CBC platforms in recent years. When asked whether he would reduce government funding to the CBC, Scheer did not directly answer, saying that he has only ever promoted the idea of ensuring the broadcaster is doing the work it is mandated to do. CLOSING ARGUMENTS IN 'SISTER WIVES' MURDER TRIAL Lawyers are to present their closing arguments today at the Winnipeg trial of a man accused of killing a woman whose body was found in a barrel. Perez Cleveland, 46, has pleaded not guilty in the 2016 death of 42-year-old Jennifer Barrett. Court has heard that Cleveland shared a house with his adult daughter and five women who were described by one of them as "sister wives." Four of the women testified that they experienced extreme physical abuse, surveillance and manipulation in the home. The Crown has said that Cleveland became convinced Barrett was cheating, so he tortured her for days before she was killed. TWO DEAD AFTER PLANE CRASH IN YUKON The Transportation Safety Board says two people have died in a plane crash in Yukon. Spokesman Jon Lee says the single-engine Cessna 170 crashed into trees shortly after taking off from the airport in Whitehorse on Monday afternoon. Lee says it happened about 600 metres from the end of the runway, and that there was a fire afterward. He says neither of the plane's two occupants survived. The privately registered aircraft had been on its way to Anchorage, Alaska. A team of investigators with the TSB that is based in Edmonton will head to Whitehorse today. AS THEY TURN 85, DIONNE SISTERS REFLECT ON CHILDHOOD FAME Today marks the birthday of the five Canadian babies who became known as the Dionne Quintuplets. There are only two survivors of the miraculous births. And Annette and Cecile Dionne who are 85 are warning of the dangers young people face when their lives are exploited at an early age like theirs were. They commented at a time when pint-sized content creators dubbed "kidfluencers'' are growing in numbers on social media. The sisters have a warning for parents: childhood is a precious time that shouldn't be exploited for profit. ALSO IN THE NEWS: The House of Commons agriculture committee will hold a news conference today about its study of mental health challenges facing Canadian farmers, ranchers and producers. Robert Andrew Leeming to appear in court on second-degree murder charges in the deaths of Calgary woman Jasmine Lovett and her toddler daughter. Canadian Armed Forces holds a court martial for retired corporal C.R. McGregor, accused of seven charges, including sexual assault, voyeurism and possession of a device for surreptitious interception of private communications. MONTREAL - A Quebec judge said she hopes the voices of caregivers struggling to care for loved ones are heard as she sentenced a Montreal man who suffocated his Alzheimer's-stricken wife with a pillow to two years less a day in jail. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Michel Cadotte, accused of murder in the 2017 death of his ailing wife in what has been described as a mercy killing, arrives at the courthouse flanked by hs lawyers for his sentencing in Montreal on Tuesday, May 28, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Paul Chiasson MONTREAL - A Quebec judge said she hopes the voices of caregivers struggling to care for loved ones are heard as she sentenced a Montreal man who suffocated his Alzheimer's-stricken wife with a pillow to two years less a day in jail. Michel Cadotte's killing of Jocelyne Lizotte, 60, in her long-term care bed warranted a strong message, Superior Court Justice Helene Di Salvo said in a decision rendered late Tuesday. "Whatever the motivation and even in the name of compassion the gesture must be denounced," Di Salvo said. But bigger societal questions surrounding support for caregivers, helplessness, life in long-term care and dealing with Alzheimer's were all brought to the forefront in the case. "The court is well aware that this case has raised passion in public opinion," Di Salvo said. "As citizens, we can only hope that the alarming cries of the difficulties caregivers face, as well as the problem of the growing number of people with Alzheimer's disease, will have been heard." The judge said determining a just sentence was her primary role, and neither the Crown nor the defence was able to find any jurisprudence that could guide her on sentencing. A jury found Cadotte guilty of manslaughter last Feb. 23 in the death of his wife of 19 years. Lizotte, 60, was in the late stages of Alzheimer's disease and was unable to speak or care for herself. But a doctor testified she was not considered to be at the end of her life and was receiving care to keep her comfortable under the circumstances. Cadotte, 58, was clearly in love with Jocelyne Lizotte, Di Salvo said, but by taking her life on Feb. 20, 2017 at the long-term care facility where she was being treated, "he committed the irreparable. He caused the suffocation death of the woman he loved, and contrary to what any one might say, this does not make him a hero." In addition to the jail time, to be served in a provincial facility, Cadotte will also have three years of probation and 240 hours of community service to complete once he's released. The sentence, which is on top of 205 days Cadotte spent in preventive custody before the trial, fell well short of what the Crown had recommended. The Crown had sought an eight-year prison term, citing the vulnerability of the victim and the violent nature of her death. Prosecutor Antonio Parapuf had little to say about the sentence but noted the judge repeatedly mentioned the need to send a message. "Of course at this step, we will take time to analyze all the different criteria and all the different steps taken by the judge before rendering our decision (on an appeal)," Parapuf said. "Our thoughts go towards the family of the victim, and now we will take time to explain everything to them." Defence lawyers Elfriede Duclervil and Nicolas Welt had recommended a sentence of between six and 12 months, which could have meant no additional time behind bars. Instead, Cadotte who was free on bail during the trial, was led away in handcuffs by court constables. "We are sad. We are disappointed, because obviously we asked for much less," Duclervil said, noting the judge took into consideration the unique facts of the case. "She came up with two years minus one day, so we're going to have live with that," Duclervil added. "And hopefully ... the family will start to grieve, but as a society, look around. It's said that one out of four people face the same challenges. It's not Michel alone." Cadotte had cared for his wife for nine years, struggling to keep her out of care until relenting in 2013. Depressed and recovering from a weekend of heavy drinking, he testified that on the day of the killing he was saddened to see Lizotte with her neck bent, sitting in a geriatric chair without a specialized head rest. He cried as he struggled to feed her lunch and then tried to place a pillow under her head. Cadotte said he couldn't explain what happened, but after a couple of failed attempts, he placed the pillow over her face and smothered her. "She was suffering too much," Cadotte testified. "I didn't want her to suffer anymore. I was suffering for her." The trial heard that Cadotte struggled to provide care as his wife's Alzheimer's worsened, and a year before he killed her he inquired about a medically assisted death. But he was told that Lizotte was not eligible because she was not considered to be at the end of life and she lacked the ability to give consent. Di Salvo noted that lawmakers took care in restricting medically assisted dying, and members of society cannot take justice into their own hands. At sentencing, Lizotte's adult sons and her younger brother held Cadotte accountable, believing he acted in his own interest. But one of Lizotte's sisters, testifying for the defence, said she understood why Cadotte acted as he did. The crime had been framed in the media as a compassion killing an offence that doesn't exist in the Criminal Code. "If we can understand that the situation in which Mr. Cadotte found himself could have led to the fateful gesture, it remains that, in the eyes of law, this gesture cannot be excused," Di Salvo said. "To unlawfully cause the death of a human being will always constitute a reprehensible act, which must be punished." FREDERICTON - Health officials in New Brunswick have confirmed another case of measles bringing the total to nine in the Saint John area and some officials predict the number could go higher. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. New Brunswick health authorities are advising staff and students at a Saint John high school that they must receive a measles booster shot if they want to continue going to the school. Rambo Islas, 8 months, is held by his mother Maria Islas, as he gets a vaccine shot administered by RN Nicole Ives at the Dallas County Health & Human Services immunization clinic in Dallas, March 8, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-The Dallas Morning News, Vernon Bryant FREDERICTON - Health officials in New Brunswick have confirmed another case of measles bringing the total to nine in the Saint John area and some officials predict the number could go higher. Dr. Jennifer Russell, the province's chief medical officer, says the latest case is linked to a previous infection at Kennebecasis Valley High School. On Friday, public health officials issued a directive that staff and students at the high school must receive a measles booster shot if they want to continue working and studying at the school. As of Monday, more than 950 students and staff had been given the vaccine, and it was still available to the final few people who had not received it. District school officials have cancelled a number of planned out-of-province class trips at two other schools in the district as a result of the measles outbreak. "In light of the long incubation period of the measles virus, and the understanding that more cases of measles could possibly be confirmed in the coming days, it was decided not to take an unnecessary risk," district communications director Jessica Hanlon wrote in an email. "Our greatest concern would be that a student could start to present symptoms while travelling, away from home and their regular health care provider, and in extended, close proximity to their classmates." Early symptoms of the virus may include fever, cough or tiny white spots in the mouth. Within three to seven days, a red rash will appear, first on the face and then spreading to the body, arms and legs. Dr. Serge Melanson, an emergency physician in Moncton and president of the New Brunswick Medical Society, said he's not surprised by the number of cases. He believes the total could rise. "Given the infectiousness and ease of spread of this particular virus, it's not all that surprising that we're up to nine. And that's despite public health and the regional health authorities doing an exceptionally good job getting out a lot of information to folks on what to do and how to contain it and to urge people to vaccinate," he said Tuesday. "It has a very long incubation period, which means people can feel relatively well for a good week or two weeks before they display symptoms, which means they have a lot of opportunity to transmit it to other folks," Melanson said. Education Minister Dominic Cardy has said he's not ruling out mandatory immunization for teachers and school staff in the province. Russell has been asked if she thinks that's necessary but said that during an outbreak is not the time for that debate. On Friday, legislators in neighbouring Maine signed into law a bill that eliminates religious and philosophical exemptions for vaccinations in the state. Maine has one of the highest rates of non-medical vaccine exemptions in the United States. Melanson said he isn't prepared to push for the same action in New Brunswick. "I'll leave those policy debates to those drafting those laws, but I will say there's little scientific doubt that the easiest, safest and best way to prevent the spread of these communicable diseases is by vaccination," he said. "What the medical field can do better, I think, is attempting to debunk some of the messages that are out there in the community, on social media and other platforms that are promoting vaccination hesitancy." The measles virus is transmitted through the air or by direct contact with an infected person. Measles can be more severe in adults and infants and can lead to complications. Six days before D-Day, Max Meisels and his fellow Jewish soldiers got an order from their commanding officer. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. D-Day veteran Martin Maxwell poses for a photograph at his home in North York, Thursday, May 16, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Tijana Martin Six days before D-Day, Max Meisels and his fellow Jewish soldiers got an order from their commanding officer. "If the Germans catch you, you're dead," the officer told them. "You have 10 minutes. Go to the telephone book and get a new name." Meisels emerged from that meeting as Martin Maxwell, the name he carried throughout his time in the British army and bears to this day. Maxwell went on to play a key role in the early hours of D-Day, the opening salvo of the bloody Allied invasion that ultimately led to the defeat of the German army. At the time, Maxwell felt he had helped strike a decisive blow against the rabid anti-Semitism that fuelled Adolf Hitler's rise and led to the killings of millions of Jews, including his own relatives. But today, as hate crimes against Jews surge dramatically in Canada and around the world, the longtime Toronto resident and decorated veteran isn't so sure. "I feel like I'm reliving the 1930s," Maxwell, 95, said in an interview. "The rise of anti-Semitism is something unbelievable." Orphaned at a young age, Maxwell watched with despair as the Jewish-run orphanages in Vienna that housed him and his siblings were closed in the wake of Germany's 1938 annexation of Austria. He endured the sight of relatives being rounded up by German officers, never to be heard from again. When he secured passage to England through a program that rescued nearly 10,000 children from Nazi-occupied countries, he eagerly waited until he was old enough to join the British military. He was closer to the action than most when D-Day dawned, having flown in with a group of fellow glider pilots under cover of darkness in a stealth mission to destroy one of the bridges German troops relied upon to bring them reinforcements in the looming battle. Their goal, he said, was to secure the bridge ahead of the main assault and to do so in relative silence so as not to warn enemy soldiers of the pending attack. "We were towed by a plane on a rope, and when you think you have your target, you cut the rope and you fly," he said. "The glider can only go down, but not up." Once there, Maxwell and his peers were told to avoid the racket of gunfire and rely on bayonets and knives to slay German soldiers. The harrowing scenes he witnessed in the ensuing days lingered long after the Nazis were defeated. The image of one fallen Allied soldier, he said, remains particularly vivid. "His helmet had fallen off, he had red hair, and he looked like he was asleep except with a bullet hole through his head," Maxwell said. "And I thought, 'in years to come, will anybody remember what you did so that we could live in freedom?'" Recent international headlines make Maxwell suspect the answer is no, and Canadian data validate his fears. Statistics Canada documented a 47 per cent rise in police-reported hate crimes between 2016 and 2017, with incidents involving Jews surging 63 per cent and coming second only to the 151 per cent spike in attacks against Muslims. A report on anti-Semitic incidents in 2018 prepared by the League for Human Rights, the advocacy arm of B'nai Brith Canada, documented a 16.5 per cent increase over levels recorded in 2017. The report also noted anti-Semitic incidents had climbed steadily for the past three years and have reached levels not seen since 1982. Barbara Perry, director of the Centre on Hate, Bias and Extremism at Ontario Tech University, said the pervasive nature of anti-Semitism is part of its unique complexity. Unlike some ideologies that flourish only in isolated social groups, Perry said anti-Jewish sentiment can be found across the political spectrum. Hatred and distrust of Jews underpins everything from overt white nationalism to conspiracy theories blaming Jews for economic woes and social inequality, she added. "Jews are relatively privileged in terms of their relationship to the cultural and economic and political elite, yet they still are subject to a whole array of very old, outdated stereotypes as well as new ones," Perry said, "But then, of course, that very closeness...with the corridors of power further feeds that mythology." Alex Polowin, a former Able Seaman with the Royal Canadian Navy, said he's keenly aware of the increasingly hostile climate. He, too, was motivated to join up after Nazis killed his relatives in his birth country of Lithuania. Like Maxwell, Polowin felt he and his fellow seamen serving aboard the HMCS Huron shaped history when they helped beat back the remnants of Germany's naval fleet during the D-Day campaign. "We put them all out of commission, and there was no more Nazi ships in the English Channel," Polowin said. "Had those ships gotten in, they could have killed numerous Canadian troops that were landing. We prevented that, and I feel very good about it." Polowin, 94, said those positive feelings have become more checkered in recent years as a growing number of news headlines illustrate that crushing the Nazis did not defeat anti-Semitism. He said he's now constantly mindful of anti-Jewish sentiment and takes pains to avoid situations where he feels his safety may be at risk. Both he and Maxwell share their wartime recollections with the Memory Project Speakers Bureau in a bid to ensure their efforts were not wasted. Yet Maxwell keeps tracking the rising tide of anti-Semitism through current events at home and abroad, including two deadly shootings at synagogues in Pittsburgh and southern California. The 19-year-old man charged in the California case, according to U.S. authorities, was fuelled by powerful hatred toward both Jews and Muslims and took inspiration from other recent fatal shootings at synagogues and mosques alike. Maxwell has watched the rise of religious violence with deepening chagrin, quoting a frequent epitaph on the graves of soldiers proclaiming that they sacrificed their todays for survivors' tomorrows. "If these young men would get up today and look at the world and what is happening, not only against the Jews mosques are being attacked, churches are attacked they would say 'what the hell have you done with the tomorrows we gave you?'" CALGARY - Police say a young woman was killed and her teenage sister badly injured in a fire set by their father who also died in the home where there had been a history of conflict. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Calgary Police Service headquarters is seen in Calgary, Monday, May 6, 2019.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh CALGARY - Police say a young woman was killed and her teenage sister badly injured in a fire set by their father who also died in the home where there had been a history of conflict. "What we know at this point is there was a lot of domestic tension within this residence, which led to a violent confrontation on Saturday and we are investigating this as a homicide as well as an attempted murder," Staff Sgt. Martin Schiavetta said Tuesday. Investigators believe Heidar Dehdari, 56, was fighting with his daughters in their suburban northwest Calgary house before he intentionally set a fire that led to an explosion. It's not clear where the blaze started. He and 22-year-old Dorsa Dehdari died, but investigators aren't sure whether the father intended to kill himself along with his daughters. Preliminary autopsies have been completed, but further tests are needed to pinpoint the cause of death for both. Police say evidence at the scene suggests the fire was a contributing factor. The other daughter, identified in court documents as 15-year-old Dorna Dehdari, is in hospital with life-altering injuries. Police do not know the motive and are investigating the events leading up to the explosion. Schiavetta said officers responded to a domestic call at the home in December related to a verbal confrontation. The provincial Justice Ministry has no criminal charges on file for Heidar Dehdari in Alberta. In a statement distributed by police, the Dehdari family asked for privacy during a "time of unimaginable sorrow." Court records show Dehdari's wife had filed for divorce just over a month ago. They married in Iran 27 years ago. The wife, Leila Dehdari, was not in the house at the time of the fire, Schiavetta said. Data from the Calgary Police Service shows there were 1,365 domestic calls in the city during the first three months of the year. That's about on par with last year but nearly 40 per cent higher than the five-year average. "We recognize that domestic violence is a huge issue in our community," Schiavetta said. Allianz has secured a High Court injunction against an Irish-based financial services company that is the subject of a warning from the Central Bank. Allianz secured the injunction against Tessline Ltd, with an address at Crescent Building, Northwood Crescent, Northwood, Santry, Dublin 9, after the defendant said it was insured by Allianz. Allianz claimed that Tessline was allegedly misleading customers about its insurance status in posts on social media platforms, including YouTube which the insurer wanted taken down. Allianz says it never insured or had an agreement with Tessline, which has held itself out to be an investment and trading firm and an "unquestionable leader in the online investment and asset management markets". Tessline, it claimed, allegedly displayed falsified signed documents with what appears to be the Allianz company seal on its website, and on social media posts, to support its claim that a contract of insurance existed between the parties. Allianz said the alleged co-founder of Tessline, a 'Mr Iain Cameron', states on a video posted on Tessline's channel last December that the company "signed an insurance contract with one of the largest insurance companies in the world Allianz. We insured Tessline for 1 billion US dollars" That video was watched 4,000 times, Allianz claimed. Allianz, which became aware of the claims last October, asked the company to remove the material from social media, and when it failed to do so brought proceedings before the High Court. The injunction, which prevents Tessline from using or displaying falsified insurance certificates on any social media platform linking Allianz to the company, was granted by Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds today. The Judge, noting that there had been "no communication" from Tessline to Allianz, said she was satisfied to make the orders sought based on what was "an ongoing fraud". Tessline did not oppose the application and were not represented in court. Tessline is also restrained from carrying out any advertising, marketing or promotional activity which refers to Allianz, suggesting there is any connection between the entities or using any of the insurer's trademarks. Imogen McGrath Bl for Allianz told the court that complaints about Tessline's conduct have been made to the Gardai, the Central Bank, and to the authorities in Germany and Italy. Counsel said in February the Central Bank issued a warning about Tessline, stating that it is "not authorised by the Central Bank as an investment firm, business firm or to provide investment advice". Counsel said Allianz also has issued a fraud warning about Tessline on its own website. Allianz had also sought orders compelling Google Ireland, Facebook Ireland, and Pinterest Europe Ltd to remove and delete any videos or links referring to Allianz which had been posted by Tessline. Counsel told the court that on consent the proceedings against the internet companies could be struck out with no order for costs. Counsel said the internet firms had removed the materials her client had complained of. Any further issues would be dealt with on a case-by-case basis, counsel added. The Central Statistics Office have said the total number of trips to Ireland has increased in the first four months of 2019. From January to April 2019, there were 2,965,000 trips to Ireland, an increase of 5.1% when compared with the same period in 2018. The CSO revealed that 1,148,100 residents of Great Britain made a trip to Ireland in that time period with a further 1,094,600 visitors coming from other European countries. 552,400 residents of the USA and Canada also arrived in Ireland in the first four months of the year. The total number of trips to Ireland by overseas residents for the month of April 2019 also increased by 4.3% to 938,300 - an increase of 38,400 compared to twelve months earlier. The CSO figures also reveal that trips overseas by Irish residents has also increased. From January to April 2019 Irish residents' trips overseas increased by 9.5% - a jump to 2,472,200. Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said the figures indicate "a solid performance from our source markets." However, he added that "Britain remains our most challenging market for the upcoming peak season. "While we welcome the fact that visitor numbers are up 2.4% for January to April, we know that currency fluctuations and the Brexit extension will continue to cause uncertainty for the summer season and may affect travel demand." Today, Armenia is celebrating the 101st anniversary of the First Republic. On May 28, 1918, Armenia achieved independence, seceding from the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic, which formed after the collapse of the Russian Empire. The First Republic existed only for two years. On December 2, 1920, the government led by Prime Minister Simon Vratsyan signed an agreement with the RSFSR, and the Armenian SSR was formed. It existed until the collapse of the USSR in 1991. Since 1992, May 28 is formally celebrated in Armenia as Republic Day, and it is a non-working day. On the occasion of the Republic Day Armenian President Armen Sarkisyan urged to be be grateful to all those who in 1918 had created the First Armenian Republic. Children's play centres are seeing insurance hikes of up to 400% in the past two years, according to Play and Activity Leisure Ireland - a new group set up to highlight the rising costs in the sector. Fort Lucan in Dublin has had to remove some of its equipment after being quoted 25,000 to cover their trampolines. The owner of the former "La Stampa" restaurant in Dublin's Dawson Street, Louis Murray, was "terrified and confused" to find a bank had appointed a receiver to sell the asset just days after he believed he had entered into an agreement for the consensual sale of the property, the High Court heard. Mr Murray (73), and his company Balieboro Springwater, in receivership, are suing AIB and the receiver claiming they sold his two adjoining Dawson Street properties, including the Dawson Hotel and Samsara Bar, at an undervaluation of 17.5m when he had an offer on the table from an investor of 21.5m. He says the bank breached an agreement he had with it for the consensual sale when it appointed Declan McDonald as receiver and further breached it when the property was advertised as a "forced sale" with a guideline price of just 15m. He says, as as result, he still had a debt of 2.3m when he could have sold it at a price which would have repaid the outstanding 19.5m debt against him while still running his business. Mr Murray was "the essence of a self made man" who left school at 14, got involved in the jewellery business, which proved profitable, before later getting involved in the nightclub business, his counsel John Fitzgerald said when opening his case on Tuesday. In 1989, he bought 35 Dawson Street from which La Stampa operated and later bought the adjoining property from which the hotel and bar operated. Both restaurant and bar were very popular in the 1990s and early 2000s, he said. Business suffered during the downturn. In 2011, Mr Murray was diagnosed with cancer, counsel said. In 2013, AIB, called him in because of concern over an inability to repay debts. Mr Murray appointed his son-in-law, John Quinn, as a director and to find a way of discharge the 19.6m debt to AIB. They also brought in accountant Bernard Somersand Mr Murray's other son in law, Shane Woods of Deloitte accountants. A business plan was drawn up and, among the proposals, was to increase revenue by extending the ground floor bar. That work began in October 2015 with a loan from Irish Distillers, counsel said. However, a meeting took place on October 17, 2015, between officials of AIB, Mr Murray and Mr Somers. Mr Murray and Balieboro Spring Water claim it was at this meeting an agreement was reached that there would be a "consensual sale" of the property. AIB denies there was any such agreement. A week later, on October 24, AIB appointed receiver Declan McDonald. Mr Fitzgerald said Mr Murray was shocked and viewed this a breach of the consensual sale agreement. His son-in-law, Mr Woods, on the evening of the receiver's appointment, found Mr Murray "terrified and confused". Discussions followed and there was some discussion about entering examinership and about keeping the business running so it could avail of the Christmas trade. Mr McDonald agreed to co-operate in this. Efforts were made to find an investor over the following months. Mr Murray, it is claimed, got two offers, including one from Olympia Investments for 21.5m. The breakdown of this investment ultimately turned out to include a 5m contribution from Mr Murray based on his other assets, including his home in Killiney, Dublin, but which AIB was not happy with. On May 5, 2015, Mr McDonald advertised the property with a guide price of 15m which Mr Murray claims was deliberately set at that figure to scupper his efforts to sell it. It sold for 17.5m In evidence, Mr Woods told the court the relationship between Mr McDonald and Mr Murray had broken down. When Mr Murray sought to be allowed into the premises to show a prospective investor around, Mr McDonald allegedly said "F...Louis, I don't want to help him" and that Mr Murray had threatened to sue the receiver, Mr Woods said. Under cross-examination by Lyndon MacCann SC, for AIB, Mr Woods agreed Mr Murray had sent abusive text messages late at night to Mr McDonald "making complaints and being generally abusive". Mr Woods said however that was a couple of months before the sale. He agreed the receiver's solicitors had to write to Mr Murray threatening legal action if the abusive texts did not stop. The case continues before Mr Justice David Barniville. Planning permission has been granted for a landmark 15-storey skyscraper that is set to transform Cork city's skyline. The 20m office building called The Prism will be located on the small triangular site at Clontarf Street next to the city bus station. Cork City Council had already granted planning permission for the building but their decision was appealed to An Bord Pleanala by heritage group An Taisce. An Taisce opposed the development on a number of grounds, including the height of the building. A structure of this kind will be the dominant feature on the east of the island when viewed from many parts of the wider city," they said. However, in a decision this week the planning appeals body said the Prism would make a "positive contribution to the urban character of the area" and would "enhance the skyline of the area." It "would not have a significant and detrimental impact on any important views and vistas within the city." The Prism development had received the support from the Cork Business Association and the Cork Chamber. Tower Holdings Group, owned by Kevin OSullivan, will oversee the development of the proposed new office building. Along with his brother Donal, the pair from Kerry has been responsible for a number of skyscraper developments in New York. The Prism building on Clontarf Street. Picture: Pedersen Focus They have also acquired the triangular site at Custom House Quay where both channels of the River Lee meet and are planning another major skyscraper for this site. Reacting to the news on the Prism this morning, Tower Holdings Director of Operations Conor Lee said the development will be transformative for Corks city centre. "There is a strong demand for offices and commercial buildings within Cork city centre. In order to continue to attract investment into Cork, to accommodate commercial expansion and to meet the projections of Project Ireland 2040, Cork needs to have a supply of modern, fully equipped buildings where the growing population of Cork can work in a vibrant and dynamic environment," he said. We are delighted that An Bord Pleanala upheld the decision by Cork City Council to grant permission for this important commercial development for Cork. In particular, the size and scale of this commercial development, which accommodates 300 work stations over 60,000 square feet is very much in demand in Cork. "We, at Tower Holdings, are ambitious for Cork, because we believe that Cork has enormous potential to rival other European cities in providing a world-class place for citizens to live and work. - EchoLive.ie The Port of Cork is poised to set up a special "border control" facility to help ease congestion at Dublin and Rosslare should Britain crash out of the EU. A British-Irish Chamber of Commerce meeting in Cork heard from the port's chief executive Brendan Keating, who said it was stepping up its plans to handle more traffic. "We are seeking to develop what is called a border control point. Dublin has built one and is prepared for a worst-case scenario hard Brexit. Rosslare is ready. We are about to start preparation on one to facilitate inspections of products coming to and from the country. "We are doing it because the Government is somewhat concerned that with congestion in Dublin and Rosslare, other ports will have to kick in and facilitate trade movement. We are next and we will prepare. We will be ready in time," Mr Keating said. The Port of Cork was somewhat insulated from a hard Brexit because its business is less dependant on daily trade across the Irish Sea. As a "lift-on, lift-off" port, it hoped to grow its market share from 20% to 25% once the multimillion redevelopment of Ringaskiddy is completed, Mr Keating said. Dublin as a roll-on, roll-off port was a "phenomenal success" but would come under pressure to secure trade of fresh goods to the UK, he said. "Brexit will have a dramatic impact on the business model of Dublin Port," Mr Keating said. Helen Arnold, co-founder of TVM, a Cork-based outside broadcast firm, said Brexit could mean "horrendous amounts of paperwork" between north and south but that business could mitigate the worst of the effects by meticulous planning. "Brexit has been on our agenda of every meeting in the last two years," she said. The firm has contingency plans with Sky to continue to broadcast sports, including the GAA, she said. Cork Chamber chief executive Conor Healy said the effects of Brexit on tourism had "gone somewhat under the radar". He called for more attention on the industry from the Government. The number of trips from overseas increased 4.3% to 938,300 in April from April 2018, CSO figures showed. A newly-elected Dublin city councillor has thanked the meme page 'Ireland Simpsons Fans' for helping her to top the poll. The Green Party's Hazel Chu won more than double the quota in Pembroke and was elected with 4,069 votes, making her the first elected councillor in Dublin City. On social media yesterday, Ms Chu extended a "massive thanks" to the members of the Facebook group for supporting her campaign. The fan page, which has almost 92,000 members, has gained popularity in recent years for its hilarious Simpsons memes providing hot takes on current events and politics. Ms Chu first featured on the page earlier this month, appearing alongside an image from the classic episode in which Ralph presents Lisa with the 'I Choo Choo Choose You' Valentine's Day card. Spotted this on @iresimpsonsfans Facebook page. I FINALLY made it!! YAS!! I shall be using these for my next campaign (no I'm not kidding). #LE19 #Simpsons pic.twitter.com/QhhrCCvzYE Hazel Chu (@hazechu) May 19, 2019 She said in a post on the group last night that the "Chu Chu train arrived in the station" with her election. Alexa, show me "Irish politics has peaked" pic.twitter.com/GljyFfLF9W Ireland Simpsons Fans (@iresimpsonsfans) May 27, 2019 Inevitably, the memes ensued. I, for one, welcome our new Chu overlord pic.twitter.com/u5VJ2r411O Ireland Simpsons Fans (@iresimpsonsfans) May 27, 2019 Meanwhile, every other politician in Ireland: pic.twitter.com/t6vq0zoABI Alan Fancyfoes (@alanfanciful) May 28, 2019 Ms Chu also extended her gratitude on Twitter, saying "you folks probably got half my vote for me". "And all the 3-12 yr olds who made songs, rhymes, influenced their parents to vote for me. You are the next leaders in the country, call me & I'll canvass for you!" she said. How could I forget @iresimpsonsfans! You folks probably got half my vote for me. And all the 3-12 yr olds who made songs, rhymes, influenced their parents to vote for me. You are the next leaders in the country, call me & I'll canvass for you! Thank you!! Big #LE19 #EP2019 Hazel Chu (@hazechu) May 27, 2019 In this spirit of sharing the love, here's the clip behind the memes: Gardai are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a father and son were killed and two others were injured in a crash in Offaly. It is understood those travelling in the car are all from the same family. A five-year-old boy has been awarded 5,000 after he was left with a scar on his head from being hit by a metal trolley in a creche in the Dundrum Shopping Centre. The child had been in the Ready Steady Play creche in the shopping centre in south Dublin on January 11, 2018 when he suffered a laceration to the head from a trolley pushed by another child, counsel told Dublin District Court. Counsel said the child was in the care of the creche at the time. The boy, who sued Ready Steady Play Ltd through his mother, had been bleeding profusely and the trolley was metal, the court was told. When his mother arrived she saw a member of staff was holding a cloth to her sons head. She noticed it was the type of cloth used to clean toilets, counsel said. A medical report was furnished to the court. Judge Michael Coghlan noted that boy was seen to at the emergency department in Tallaght Hospital. His mother had informed counsel that her son had a scar in the middle of his head but it was very difficult to see. He also had a bald patch around it for three months. The boy had not been able to go to school for two weeks because he had an open wound. His mother, who was self-employed, had a loss of two weeks earnings - some 1,000 - and she had paid 100 for admission to the hospital's accident and emergency department. Judge Coghlan said while it was traumatic for the boy, he seems to be in good fettle now. He approved the settlement offer of 2,283 expenses and general damages of 5,000. He directed that the money be paid into court funds on behalf of the boy until he reaches full age. Einsteins theory of gravity was tested 100 years ago tomorrow, but what may be less well known is the Irish connection with this seminal event. On May 29, 1919, a total eclipse of the sun provided the first evidence to support Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity, explains Professor Paul Callanan, a Physicist at University College Cork (UCC). A few years earlier, Einstein had predicted how matter could bend the space around it, generating what we experience as gravity. It was decided that the sun would be photographed during an eclipse in order to test this hypothesis and to see how the light from distant stars was affected as it passed as close as possible to the sun. This was the time to shine for an Irish astronomer and instruments made in UCC. Two expeditions set off from England to gather images of the sun during the eclipse - one to an island off the coast of Africa, and the other to a town called Sobral in Brazil. Prof Callanan outlines how it transpired that the most accurate measurements were taken in Sobral using the instruments made in the Crawford Observatory in UCC by Howard Grubb. The mission was led by a Co Antrim astronomer, Andrew Crommelin from Cushendun. Einstein became a household name once the results of the experiment were released, and, according to Prof Callanan, it was "one of the defining moments in our understanding of how gravity really works". The findings made the front page of the New York Times with the headline: Lights all Askew in the Heavens, Einstein Theory Triumphs. Update 9:27pm: It took two recounts and four days but Holly McKeever Cairns has secured the final seat in Bantry West Cork LEA amid high drama on the 16th floor of Cork County Hall. The 29-year-old pipped Independent candidate Finbarr Harrington by just one vote, flipping the outcome of Sunday night's first full count when the latter had been deemed elected by the same margin. McKeever Cairns, a farmer and businesswoman, called for the first recount which carried across Monday and into Tuesday morning. Following extensive discussions over doubtful ballots, it emerged five invalid votes had been included in the first full count. With those removed, it changed the landscape significantly, with the quota reduced by one in the four-seat LEA. The result of the first recount put McKeever Cairns, supported by Social Democrats joint leader Roisin Shortall, one ahead, gaining two votes in the recount while Harrington's total remained the same. Harrington, a long-time community activist, called for the second recount. While it proceeded swiftly, concluding before 5pm, it all came down to 22 doubtful papers. In an enthralling development, the tension was ratcheted up as those papers were combed through, one-by-one, like a high-stakes game of Snap, at a table around which the two candidates, their representatives, and the Returning Officer Maurice Manning and his team explained the reasoning behind the decision made on each one. This gripping spectacle was played out as supporters of both candidates watched on, hanging on every word. Shortly before 9pm, the announcement came, but Harrington had already conceded defeat in magnanimous fashion, calling McKeever Cairns a "wonderful person", someone who he said had similar beliefs to his own. Holly McKeever Cairns with her supporters at the re-count for the Bantry, West Cork, local electoral area for the local elections, in Cork County Hall. Pic: David Keane. "Tonight it's all about Holly," he said. Deputy Shortall said of the count process: "It was by far the tightest battle that I have ever witnessed. There was one vote in it. It just shows how well the system works." She said the win was significant for the party, which has trebled its number of councillors nationally, adding: "People like Holly McKeever are the future of Irish politics." The winning candidate paid tribute to Mr Harrington and his family, outlining how she has "many aspirations" for her time on Cork County Council, including making West Cork a place where people stay and return to. "I never expected this turn of events," she said of the count. As for the roundtable discussion on the doubtful ballots in the second recount, she said: "I always felt calm. I'm not sure if later on tonight or next week I will realise what happened." Sunday's first full count had given her the third highest number of first preferences in a crowded field, only for victory to appear whipped away at the last. Yet 48 hours later, it was her hour, and her seat. Following the mammoth count process, she summed it up: "It shows the importance of getting out to vote. Literally, every single vote counts." Update 8:22pm: The process to decide the fourth and final seat in Bantry West Cork LEA is down to the scrutinising of a handful of votes after a second recount triggered earlier today. Just one vote separated Holly McKeever Cairns of the Social Democrats and Independent candidate Finbarr Harrington when the result of the first recount was announced this morning. It reversed the final position from Sundays first full count, when Harrington got the nod by one vote. Harrington called for a second recount and while that finished before 5pm, the tension has been ratcheted up with discussions over doubtful ballots. It has resulted in the extraordinary but low-key theatre of a four-strong panel from Cork County Council, including Returning Officer Maurice Manning, now going through the doubtful, tagged ballots, in front of the two candidates and two members of their respective teams. Those at the table, including Social Democrat joint leader Roisin Shortall, are viewing the disputed papers one-by-one on floor 16 of County Hall in Cork, with their supporters looking on and hanging on every word they can hear. Earlier, Mr Harrington said there will not be another recount, but as things stand it is hard to know exactly when there will be an announcement tonight, or whether the process may carry over into a fifth day, counting having begun on Saturday. Update 5:17pm: Both candidates vying to fill the final seat in the Bantry West Cork LEA have been told that a second recount has found "a number of issues" and, as with the first recount, their potential impact must now be reviewed. Finbarr Harrington, Non-Party, and Holly McKeever Cairns, Social Democrats, fighting it out for the last seat in Bantry West Cork at the Community Hall in Clonakilty. Picture Dan Linehan Maurice Manning told Holly McKeever Cairns of the Social Democrats and Independent candidate Finbarr Harrington: "There are a number of issues that we have identified and we need to assess the impact, if any, of those." He said that review process will take an hour, with both candidates to be updated - likely behind closed doors - at around 5pm. The results of the first recount in the four-seat LEA was announced this morning, with McKeever Cairns reversing the result of Sunday's result - going from losing by one vote, to winning by the same margin. It emerged that five invalid ballots had been incorrectly included in the initial count at the weekend, with the result that the quota was reduced by one. It also affected transfers. Mr Harrington immediately requested and was granted the recount which has been continuing since noon today. Earlier (1:11pm): In dramatic scenes on Floor 16 in Cork County Hall, the result of the Bantry West Cork LEA was flipped on its head, with Social Democrat candidate Holly McKeever Cairns going from losing the fourth and final seat by one vote, to winning it by the same margin. A full (second) recount has now got underway, this time requested by Independent candidate Finbarr Harrington, who has gone from being hoisted on the shoulders of his supporters on Sunday night to potentially missing out. On Monday night Returning Officer Maurice Manning had informed both candidates in a closed-door meeting that a number of invalid ballots had been included in the first count last weekend. This morning it was confirmed that five invalid ballots had been included, which appear to have had ramifications throughout the count. The quota was reduced by one, to 2,308, and crucially, Finbarr Harrington's first preference total fell by one, while McKeever Cairns's rose by two. In rapid succession, the revised totals for counts two-through-eight were delivered, and it was clear that the five invalid papers, now excluded from the reckoning, were having a huge impact. On count 6 the two candidates vying for the last seat were neck-and-neck on 1,777. On count 7, Harrington was ahead by nine votes, whereas at the equivalent stage last Sunday, we was 12 votes ahead. With Katie Murphy, the 20-year-old running for Fine Gael, now deemed elected on the seventh count, as was the case last Sunday, her surplus to be transferred had also changed, increased from 67 last Sunday to 68. In the shake-up, it meant McKeever Cairns, a 29-year-old farmer and businessperson, received a final count haul of 1,866 - just one ahead of Harrington, a longtime community activist. Harrington duly requested a recount, which is underway as of noon. Both candidates embraced when the result was announced, with McKeever Cairns, unsurprisingly, saying it was premature to celebrate. Harrington referred to a "moral victory", but there's little doubt that, having missed out by a wider margin in 2014, he wants a real one - one which may have been snatched away courtesy of the five invalid ballots. The result of the latest recount is not expected until at least 6pm today, with Social Democrats joint leader Roisin Shortall among those monitoring proceedings. This one could run and run. An event dedicated to the Republic Day of Azerbaijan and the 100th anniversary of Azerbaijans Diplomatic Service was held in Los Angeles. Hosted by the Consulate General of Azerbaijan in Los Angeles, the event was attended by over 400 guests, including representatives of the U.S. State Department, Consuls General and Honorary Consuls, representatives of elected officials, faith leaders, media representatives, scientists, members of the local Azerbaijani community, as well as leaders of Jewish, Turkish, Pakistani, Iranian, Korean, Hispanic and other communities. Consul General of Azerbaijan in Los Angeles and Dean of the Los Angeles Consular Corps Nasimi Aghayev welcomed the guests, stating that 101 years ago on May 28, 1918, the people of Azerbaijan established the very first Republic in their history - the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic. The diplomat further noted that it was the first ever secular democracy among all Muslim nations and the first majority-Muslim nation to grant women the right to vote. He stated that this year also marks the 100th anniversary of Azerbaijans diplomatic service and the first diplomatic encounter between Azerbaijan and the United States, and that the two countries have built a strategic partnership based on shared values, interests and vision for the future. Aghayev stressed that today under the visionary leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan has become the largest economy in the region, with one of the most competitive economies in the world, implementing energy and transportation projects of global importance. In her remarks, Chief of Protocol of the County of Los Angeles Lourdes Saab expressed her joy attending this momentous celebration and congratulated the people of Azerbaijan and the Azerbaijani community of California on the Azerbaijan national day, and on behalf of the Board of Supervisors of the County of Los Angeles, presented congratulatory proclamation to Consul General Aghayev. It was noted that May 28 was proclaimed as Azerbaijan National Day in the cities of San Diego, Irvine, Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti also sent a certificate of congratulations. Update 4.37pm:Dublin's four new MEP seats have finally been decided, after three days of counting. Independents4Change candidate TD, Clare Daly, has won the third seat, with Fianna Fail's Barry Andrews securing the so-called "cold-storage" fourth seat, which can only be taken up once Brexit happens. Dalys final vote of 87,770 puts her in third and Andrews finishes fourth on 68,952 #iestaff #EE19 pic.twitter.com/ZPQgdyUdSD Juno McEnroe (@Junomaco) May 28, 2019 Ms Daly extended her lead over Barry Andrews after outgoing Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan's votes were redistributed. The count was dramatically suspended last night after legal teams for both candidates had raised concerns over whether Boylan's votes would be transferred. Update 3.10pm: After almost 34 hours of counting Sean Kelly has become the first MEP elected in the Ireland South constituency. The former president of the GAA received 119,444 first preference votes, but had to wait until the ninth count before being re-elected to the European Parliament. Independents4Change candidate Mick Wallace and Fianna Fail TD Billy Kelleher are now in the hunt for enough transfers to get them over the line in second position. Mr Wallace, who performed better on first preferences than exit polls had suggested, has also received the lion's share of transfers from the majority of eliminations After the first count there were 2,342 votes between Billy Kelleher in second position and Mick Wallace in third, however, after eight counts that gap had reduced to 1,070 votes. Sinn Fein's Liadh Ni Riada, Grace O'Sullivan of the Green Party, Fianna Fail's second candidate Malcolm Byrne and outgoing Fine Gael MEP Deirdre Clune are expected to be battling it out for the final two seats. However, it could be late on Thursday before all five MEPs are elected in Ireland South. Update 3.04pm: By Fiachra O Cionnaith, in Castlebar, Co Mayo Controversial presidential race runner-up Peter Casey has predicted the final seat in the Midlands North West MEP election will come down to a three-way battle between himself, Fine Gael's Maria Walsh and Sinn Fein's Matt Carthy. Speaking to the Irish Examiner this afternoon, Mr Casey said: "I am very much in the mix" and that he believes he is set to benefit from a vote surge due to transfers overcoming counts from Renua's Michael O Dowd, Independent Fidelma Healy Eames and Fianna Fail. File photo of Peter Casey. After six counts in the sprawling 13 county constituency, just one candidate - sitting Fine Gael MEP Mairead McGuinness - has been elected, after cruising home on the first count with the highest first preference haul in the country. However, while Independent MEP Luke 'Ming' Flanagan is likely to join her on the four-seat podium in the coming 24 hours, the race for the final two seats is still tight, with the sixth count just after 2pm showing: * Luke 'Ming' Flanagan, Independent, is on (+631) 87,964 - (quota of 118,986) * Matt Carthy, Sinn Fein, (+375) 79,028 * Maria Walsh, Fine Gael, (+694) 71,425 * Peter Casey, Independent, (+390) 58,602 * Saoirse McHugh, Greens, (+898) 53,966 * Brendan Smith, Fianna Fail, (+125) 44,255 * Anne Rabbitte, Fianna Fail, (+273) 31,471 * Dominic Hannigan, Labour, (+211) 13,408 * Fidelma Healy Eames, Independent, (+826) 17,590 * Cyril Brennan, Solidarity-People Before Profit, (+188) 8,553 * and Michael O'Dowd, Renua, (+232) 7,677 With no one elected on count six, the lowest performing candidate at that stage - Mr O'Dowd, who is the brother of Fine Gael TD Fergus O'Dowd - was eliminated, with his 7,677 votes now due to be spread out in count seven. Mr Flanagan has predicted on Twitter that he will win the second seat and come in above the quota at some point either tonight or more realistically on Wednesday morning. He has also predicted that the two final seat winners will come in under the quota, and has said it is possible that Fianna Fail TD Brendan Smith could be pushed momentarily back in contention. However, speaking with the Irish Examiner, Mr Casey questioned the prediction, saying his own tallies suggest he is "very much in the mix" - and that he expects transfers from Renua, Ms Eames and Fianna Fail to come his way. Asked if, provided he stays ahead of Fianna Fail, he is effectively in a battle with Fine Gael's ex-Rose of Tralee Maria Walsh for the final seat, Mr Casey said: "Yep, I think that's right, the last seat is up for grabs and who out of the two of us is more transfer friendly, who would get more from Fianna Fail?" "I think Matt as well, he's definitely not home and hosed. Actually, I think I might hop over them both." The likely next four counts which will dominate today and tonight's checks will most likely see transfers from Renua's Mr O'Dowd, Solidarity-PBP's Cyril Brennan, Labour's Dominic Hannigan and Independent Fidelma Healy Eames. Update 2.30pm: By Juno McEnroe, in the RDS, Dublin Independent Clare Daly is in poll position to win the third seat in the European Parliament Dublin constituency after a row with Fianna Fail candidate Barry Andrews over the counting of votes. The two MEP hopefuls are trying to avoid coming in fourth, where they would effectively be frozen out of the European parliament for many months until Brexit goes ahead. The disagreement has seen lawyers for both teams gathering in the RDS count centre and proceedings had more or less stalled overnight with the standoff. Returning officer Fergus Gallagher this afternoon now decided to continue with the count and has eliminated Sinn Fein sitting MEP Lynn Boylan, who was in fifth place, and said her transfers will be distributed. But the distribution of Social Democrats Gary Gannon's transfers has already pole vaulted Ms Daly into the lead, putting her ahead of Mr Andrews. The transfers put Ms Daly on 65,683 votes compared to Mr Andrews who now falls back into fourth place on 63,177. Transfers from Ms Boylan will almost certainly put Ms Daly beyond reach, guaranteeing the Independents4Change TD the third seat. The row is complicated by the fact that no candidate wants the fourth seat. That seat only comes into effect if and when Brexit goes ahead. And that could take months. Asked about the decision to share out Ms Boylan's votes, Ms Daly said she welcomed the move. Mr Andrews said he did not want to "overshadow" proceedings. But he also said, when asked if legal action might be taken, that he was ruling nothing in or out. The development comes after the minister in charge of the legislation for the European elections shifted his position in a matter of hours on whether Ms Boylan's transfers should be counted or not. Initially, local government minister John Paul Phelan said on radio this morning that the fifth candidate's votes in the Dublin race should not be distributed. This was in line with the legislation, he claimed. However, speaking on RTE radio later in the morning, he flip-flopped on the matter and said that Ms Boylan's votes should indeed be shared out. Mr Phelan said: The updated law was amended by the 2019 Act which does require the distribution of both to determine the order of elections, because the order is important. This triggered criticism from academics as well as Fianna Fail who have questioned how strong the law is on the elections and highlighted problems around the extra so-called Brexit 'cold storage' seat. Update 2pm by Kevin O'Neill: Sean Kelly is now just 151 votes short of reaching the quota. It is expected that Mr Kelly will secure the final votes he needs on the next count when staff finish the transfer of Allan J Brennan's 5,132 votes. The eighth count brought about very little change in the votes, with the biggest number of Mr Brennan's tallies going to Independents 4 Change candidate Mick Wallace, who has done well on transfers all day. He picked up another 351 on this count, bringing his total to 83,771. Mr Wallace still trails Fianna Fail's Billy Kelleher, though, with Mr Kelleher now on 84,841. Liadh Ni Riada added 305 to her total, increasing her lead over Grace O'Sullivan, Malcolm Byrne and Deirdre Clune in the battle for seats. But, it remains all eyes on MEP Sean Kelly, who now has 119,715, just 151 short of the quota of 119,866. It now looks likely that Theresa Heaney will be eliminated on the next count. Meanwhile, outgoing Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan has been eliminated in the Dublin European Election Count. Her votes are being redistributed, which should put Independents4Change Candidate Clare Daly into third position, and on her way to Brussels. She has finally overtaken Fianna Fail's Barry Andrews, who is now expected to take the new fourth and final Dublin Seat in the European Parliament. This will be a so-called "cold-storage" seat, meaning he can only take up the seat if and when the UK leaves the EU. Additional reporting by Digital Desk By Kevin O'Neill and Elaine Loughlin Update 12.30pm: Candidates in Ireland South are still awaiting the first election in the 12-county constituency. Counting is continuing at Nemo Rangers GAA Club, with Identity Ireland candidate Peter O'Loughlin the latest to be eliminated. He was knocked out on the seventh count. Fine Gael MEP Sean Kelly continues to lead the way and is now just 321 votes short of the quota. It is expected that he will reach the quota in the next two counts. The seventh count involved the distribution of Colleen Worthington's votes, with Independents 4 Change candidate Mick Wallace picking up the biggest share of these at 556. Mr Wallace remains in third, just over 1,000 votes behind Fianna Fail's Billy Kelleher. Sinn Fein's Liadh Ni Riada continues to perform well, with 79,945 votes, and Green Party candidate Grace O'Sullivan is a little further behind on 77,020. Attention now turns to the distribution of Mr O'Loughlin's 4,181 votes. Asked about the vote transfer saga in #Dublin and possibly #IrelandSouth @SeanKellyMEP says: "It's a bit of a mess but Brexit was always going to be a mess and this is just another part of it." #iestaff Elaine Loughlin (@Elaine_Loughlin) May 28, 2019 Meanwhile, A "simple recount" is underway in the Dublin European Election Count at the RDS. Fianna Fail candidate Barry Andrews wants the count staff to look again at Count 14, which was the distribution of Labour candidate Alex White's transfers. As things stand, Barry Andrews is ahead of Independents4Change candidate Clare Daly with Sinn Fein's Lynn Boylan in fifth. A dispute has emerged over whether Boylan's vote should be distributed, which could put Daly ahead of Andrews and into third. Whoever comes third will head to Brussels, while the fourth-placed candidate must wait for Brexit to occur. In Cork, Sean Kelly has said he warned the EU Parliament that Ireland could face legal battles over cold storage seats when they were being distributed. Mr Kelly said he expects the saga to end up in the courts. A row over the transfer of votes and the so-called 'cold storage' Brexit seat brought a halt to counting in the European elections in Dublin last night and the Ireland South could see the same situation arising when it comes down the final fifth seat, which will only become available when Britain leaves the EU. "It's a bit of a mess but Brexit was always going to be a mess and this is just another part of it," Fine Gael MEP Mr Kelly said. I said it all along that it will probably end up in the courts, the lawyers will be delighted. Ireland has received two extra EU seats, one in Dublin and one in Ireland South but they can only be taken up after Brexit. Speaking in the count centre in Cork, Mr Kelly said: "I remember well, it was mentioned and came up for discussion, I said: 'For God's sake don't be distributing any seats until the British have actually left'. "I had said that first of all it was discourteous, we were sitting down with British MEPs and talking about distributing their seats. "Secondly I said there is a slight possibility at this stage that Brexit was not going to happen and what are you going to do then? "And I said thirdly it would send out a good message that we are keeping all these seats in reserve for expansion. "But they didn't listen to me and now we are in a bit of a mess as a result," he told the Irish Examiner. Additional reporting by Digital Desk Update 11.15am by Kevin O'Neill: Sean Kelly is edging closer to a quota in the Ireland South vote but is still a few hundred shy. After the sixth count, the Fine Gael MEP picked up another 257 votes, leaving him 486 shy of the quota of 119,886. Independent candidate Colleen Worthington was eliminated in the sixth count, as staff at the Nemo Rangers count centre start to make their way through the 23-candidate ballot. The most recent count saw the distribution of Paddy Fitzgerald's 3,332 votes, with Dolores Cahill picking up the largest portion of these at 300. Liam Minehan picked up 280, with Breda Patricia Gardner (228) and Mick Wallace (206) also taking a decent share of the transfers. With Worthington eliminated, Identity Ireland candidate Peter O'Loughlin is now trailing, with 4,047 votes. There has been little change at the top of the ballot, with Billy Kelleher, Mick Wallace, Liadh Ni Riada and Grace O'Sullivan still placed second to fifth. Fianna Fail's Malcolm Byrne has 69,511 votes and Fine Gael MEP Deirdre Clune is 7th with 65,005. Ms Clune is likely to be dependent on transfers from her party Andrew Doyle if she is to retain her seat. Update 10.50am: The frontrunner in the Ireland South constituency is now fewer than 800 votes away from reaching a quota. After the fifth count at Nemo Rangers GAA Club this morning, Sean Kelly is just 743 votes off reaching the quota of 119,886, with expectations growing that he will be the first candidate elected in the 12 county constituency this morning. He took a step forward this morning, picking up 350 transfers from Walter Ryan-Purcell, who was eliminated last night on the fourth count. Independents 4 Change candidate Mick Wallace and Green Party candidate Grace O'Sullivan continued to prove friendly to transfers, picking up 323 and 272 votes respectively. Fianna Fail's Billy Kelleher remains in a strong position with 84,388 votes to date, and Sinn Fein's Liadh Ni Riada is also still in the mix with 79,573. Independent candidate Paddy Fitzgerald was eliminated in the count, with the process of transferring his 3,332 votes now ongoing. Meanwhile the Dublin European Election count is due to resume following a dispute between Independents4Change Clare Daly and Fianna Fail's Barry Andrews over the final seat. As things stand, Barry Andrews is ahead of Clare Daly, meaning she would only become a sitting MEP after Brexit. The disagreement is over whether Lynn Boylan's vote should be distributed, which could put Daly ahead of Andrews and into third. After discussions between the Returning Officer and the two parties, it was decided to suspend counting until 11am. But this could end up in the courts. In the Midlands North West constituency, Fine Gaels Mairead McGuinness topped the poll and was elected on Monday. Independent Luke Ming Flanagan will also be hoping for a return to the European Parliament. Sinn Feins Matt Carthy, Fine Gaels Maria Walsh a former Rose of Tralee and former presidential candidate Peter Casey, who is standing as an independent, are also vying for the three seats that remained unfilled on Monday. Counting is also continuing to fill the last remaining of the country's 949 council seats. Fianna Fail has retained its position as the largest party at local government level, with Fine Gael not making the gains it had hoped for. The Green Party enjoyed a surge in support, while Sinn Fein suffered a bruising poll, losing many councillors. Additional reporting by Digital Desk and PA Earlier: Three of 13 MEPs elected as count goes into third day Update 7am: Three of Ireland's 13 European Parliament seats have been filled so far. Mairead McGuinness, Ciaran Cuffe and Frances Fitzgerald have all been elected and counting will resume in the three constituencies this morning. A dispute over the final two Dublin seats led to the suspension of counting at the RDS last night. The row centres on which of the two candidates will take up the final so-called "cold storage" seat, which can be only be taken up once Brexit happens. Fianna Fail's Barry Andrews and Independents4Change Clare Daly are in contention for the third seat, after Ciaran Cuffe and Frances Fitzgerald were elected. Clare Daly is in fourth position, behind Barry Andrews. It's unclear if Sinn Fein's Lynn Boylan, who will be eliminated after the next count, will have her votes transferred. They could leap-frog Clare Daly ahead of Barry Andrews, meaning he would have to wait for Brexit to take his seat in Brussels. The count has been suspended until 11am. Sean Kelly will be the first MEP elected in the Ireland South constituency in the European elections later. He is just over a thousand votes off the quota after 4 counts. Fianna Fail's Billy Kelleher is currently second, with independent Mick Wallace in third, followed by Sinn Fein's Liadh Ni Riada and the Green Party's Grace O'Sullivan. Billy Kelleher says it is hard to take anything for granted at this stage. "Well I've been standing for elections since 1992 and I've seen people that were very confident and their hopes being shattered and vice-versa, so agony and ecstasy are very close in this particular business of elections," he said. Fine Gael look set to take two seats in the Midlands-Northwest constituency. Today's count will go into its third day in Castlebar. Independent Luke 'Ming' Flanagan and Sinn Fein's Matt Carthy are on course to retain their seats. Former Rose of Tralee Maria Walsh is in pole position to take the final seat. She benefitted greatly from Mairead McGuinness's surplus after her election, but the first-time candidate isn't taking anything for granted. "Yes, Mairead was great and seeing 38-40% of her surplus come to me was fantastic but we've a long 48 hours [to go]," she said. "I'm listening to the experts, the tallymen, and they said they could be here until Thursday. We keep chipping away but the quota is so large and we'll see what the next couple of days look like." Independent Clare Daly has pledged to rattle the cages of those in authority after being elected to the European Parliament in the constituency of Dublin. The Independents4Change TD saw off tough competition from Fianna Fail's Barry Andrews to win the third seat after a row between the two over the transfer of votes in the drawn-out count. For too long the EU has been dominated by the military industrial complex and by corporate interests. It's time we took them on. That's why I'm running in the European Elections on 24 May. #EP2019 #EuropeanElections2019 #AnotherEuropeIsPossiblehttps://t.co/lrL3dDtKij Clare Daly (@ClareDalyMEP) May 13, 2019 There have now been calls for the setting up of an electoral commission and for clarity around the so-called 'Brexit seats' in Europe after the election spat almost ended up in the courts. The elimination of Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan and the transfer of over 22,000 of her votes helped push Ms Daly well clear of Mr Andrews giving her a final tally of 87,770 on the 16th and final count. Ms Daly pledged to work on justice and climate change issues as an MEP. She also insisted she would be an advocator and rattle the cages of those in authority". Asked about the count row, she said: What I didn't want was sort of behind-the-scenes legal manoeuvring stopping the mandate of Dublin's electorate being recognised. Mr Andrews, a former minister, came in fourth place with 68,952 votes, having to settle for the so-called 'cold storage' Brexit seat. The former GOAL boss will only be able to take his seat if and when Britain leaves the European Union. Mr Andrews said he didn't buy the narrative on being half elected and said he was happy to have regained a Dublin MEP seat for Fianna Fail, the first for the party in 15 years. He also called for the setting up of an electoral commission in the wake of the row over the counting of votes from eliminated candidates. Normally, transfers from the final elimination do not come into play as remaining candidates are deemed elected. There had been fears the row over the distribution of Ms Boylan's transfers could see sides go to the courts. The count was suspended on Monday night and both sides took legal advice. Mr Andrews at one stage also sought a recount of transfers from Labours Alex White "out of an abundance of caution". But in the end, the disagreement was settled and returning officer Fergus Gallagher let the count go ahead and finish. Afterwards, Mr Andrews warned that Brexit could be a disaster for Ireland and shouldn't be "taken for granted". He also made the point that a total of 58 MEPs in Europe would be in the same position as him waiting for Brexit and that Brussels would have to come up with a solution. And while he may have to wait months to get to the parliament in Strasbourg, Ms Daly will take up her position there over the summer after coming third. Green councillor Ciaran Cuffe topped the poll in the Dublin constituency while Fine Gael TD and former Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald took the second seat. Reflecting on the huge support for the Greens in the local and European elections, Mr Cuffe said that the voice of young voters had spoken and they were concerned about affordable housing. They are being priced out of housing. All they are being offered are boxes, they are being offered homes that are hours away by car, he said after being elected. The former minister said voters wanted to see change as he heralded "a new beginning" for the Greens. The biggest loss in the Dublin constituency was for Sinn Fein, after Ms Boylan failed to win a seat. The party says it will now examine why voters failed to turn up at the ballot box this time. A row over the transfer of votes and the so-called 'cold storage' Brexit seat has brought a halt to counting in the European elections in Dublin. Independents4Change TD Clare Daly said there was now a possibility the disagreement could be heading for the courts. The row centres over whether Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan's votes can be transferred across to Ms Daly or Fianna Fail's Barry Andrews when she is eliminated, as is expected. Two seats have already been filled in the constituency, by the Greens Ciaran Cuffe and Fine Gael's Frances Fitzgerald. Ms Daly's team say that the returning officer earlier today gave a commitment that those votes would be distributed and counted. However, this would set a precedent as the last person to be eliminated in an election count usually results in the next highest candidate being elected. But without the votes being added on. While Ms Daly and Mr Andrews look likely to take the last two seats in the four-seater, neither want the the fourth. Breaking: Count suspended at Dublin RDS until 11am tmrw after dispute over counting of transfers #iestaff pic.twitter.com/LszYo4Lzkg Juno McEnroe (@Junomaco) May 27, 2019 The fourth seat only comes into play if and when Brexit goes ahead. It has been deemed the 'cold storage' seat, as the MEP elected to it may have to wait months or longer to go to Europe. Ms Daly's team argue that lawyers for Fianna Fail stopped the count and objected to a decision to count Ms Boylan's transfers when they go across as they fear those numbers would guarantee the Independent the third seat. Returning officer Fergus Gallagher has now suspended the count until tomorrow. The disagreement happened ahead of the votes of Social Democrats councillor Gary Gannon being counted after he was eliminated. Gannon polled almost 30,000 votes and these would be expected to benefit Ms Daly over Mr Andrews. Nonetheless, Ms Daly is also confident these transfers will bring her across the line and give her the third seat. She said that there had been a decision taken in Ireland South over the same issue. She also said it looked like the matter may now go to the courts. Just as counting was slowly edging to the finish line in the European Parliament Dublin constituency election on Monday night, whispers of a row started to filter through the RDS. Candidates disagreed over the counting of transfers from eliminated opponents. Close to midnight, the count was suspended. Lawyers arrived and counting staff were sent home. The dispute was between Independents4Change's Clare Daly and Fianna Fail's Barry Andrews who were battling it out for the final two MEP seats in the four-seater. Both were still many thousands of votes off reaching 72,790 votes - the quota needed to be elected. However, neither wanted to end up in fourth place, with the so-called 'cold storage' Brexit seat. Under changes for Brexit, the Dublin constituency has gone from a three- to a four-seater. But the final seat only comes into effect if Brexit goes ahead. The quandary for Ms Daly and Mr Andrews was whether the transfer from the candidate in fifth place, Sinn Fein's Lynn Boylan, could be counted and added to their final tallies. Traditionally when the last candidate is eliminated, remaining candidates are automatically elected without transfer votes being counted. But the dispute for the Dublin count centred on a contention by Ms Daly that Ms Boylan's transfers should indeed be added up, which would benefit her. Mr Andrews and his advisors objected. Campaign teams and candidates huddled, debating with returning officer Fergus Gallagher. Neither side was backing down. In the end, proceedings continued today and after the 15th count, transfers from eliminated Social Democrats candidate Gary Gannon helped pole vault Ms Daly into third place ahead of Mr Andrews. The returning officer then announced that transfers from Ms Boylan would indeed be counted and added to the final tallies. Ms Daly later went on to take the third seat while her opponent took the fourth so-called 'Brexit seat'. Academics lashed the Government for confusing legislation which had failed to resolve the spat. This row had all the hallmarks of ending up in the courts. Any challenge could have stalled the outcome for days or weeks. Instead, a magnanimous Barry Andrews conceded that Ms Daly was too far ahead and took satisfaction from at least being elected as an MEP - albeit an MEP-in-waiting. Sean Kelly has described his re-election to the European Parliament as "the greatest moment" of his political career. Mr Kelly was elected on the ninth count after an agonising wait of almost 34 hours of counting. The former GAA President eventually exceeded the quota, landing on 119,883 votes. "We were just chipping away at it," he said. "I am absolutely ecstatic. I never thought I would be first elected. To be leading by almost 40,000 votes, you have to be humbled and elated by that. "I am delighted to be returned to work for Ireland South again." Mr Kelly said it was just a matter of being patient after the announcement of the first count yesterday evening but said he remained calm. "It wasn't too bad knowing that we would get over the line," he said. "I would have a bit more sympathy for those who would have far different emotions, wondering if they will get through or not, that is far more difficult. I just had to be patient but they are still wondering if they will make it, maybe for another day or two, my heart goes out to them." Mr Kelly also fired a warning shot to those who go to the European Parliament to "spoof", singling out Nigel Farage and "the far left and far right" for criticism. He said it is essential to go to Europe with a positive attitude to get work done. "I don't see why anyone would go out with a negative attitude - if that's what you're thinking, you might as well go home," he said. "I hope that the Irish MEPs will work together for the benefit of Ireland, especially for Brexit. There are times we will disagree personally and politically, but we can all work together if we pull on the green jersey and do our best for Ireland." The former deputy commander of the elite Irish special forces says the Minister with responsibility for Defence and his senior civil servants should resign because they are running the country's military into the ground. Cathal Berry said he had resigned after 23 years' service in the Defence Forces, including six years as deputy head of the Army Ranger Wing (ARW), so he could speak up on behalf of his men, as many of them and their families were "living in abject poverty". Serving soldiers are not allowed to speak out and Mr Berry said this "gagging" suited Department of Defence mandarins. The former commandant said morale was on the floor because the Defence Forces were being dismantled by civil servants who had absolutely no military background and claimed that Minister Paul Kehoe was completely out of his depth. He said he loved his job and would readily rejoin the Army when the current problems being experienced across the Defence Forces were properly addressed. Mr Berry added that he wasn't afraid to speak out and "wasn't scared" by what may happen to him. He said: Troops expect officers to talk on their behalf. The department heads have to go. He added that while he had no issues with Mr Kehoe on a personal level, he described the minister as "an empty suit" who was "full of platitudes and spin." Mr Berry maintained this was widely known throughout the Defence Forces and it was akin to "the Emperor has no clothes." He criticised the department for handing back around 20m a year from their budget, rather than investing it in improving pay and conditions for serving personnel. "They're doing this to look good in front of their bosses. There needs to be full access for the Defence Forces (representative associations) to national pay talks," Mr Berry said. He said Garda Commissioner Drew Harris had responsibility for his budget, but it was civil servants who controlled the budget for the Defence Forces, instead of Chief of Staff Vice Admiral Mark Mellett. Mr Berry resigned from the Defence Forces on May 3 last, allowing him to attend a major protest mounted by veterans and the lobby group Wives & Partners of the Defence Forces, which took place in Cork the following day. Commandant Conor King, general secretary of the officers representative association RACO, said nearly 90% of Defences Forces personnel earn below the average public sector wage according to Central Statistics Office figures. "We are the most trusted public service organisation at 82% according to the Institute of Public Administration; far in excess of the garda rating, but they are by far the highest paid public servants and we are the lowest," Comdt King said. He added that 79% of officers who have joined since 2013 have declared their intention to leave well in advance of their retirement age, due to an inadequate pension provision. Well over 3,100 personnel left the Defence Forces in the last five years, which equates to almost 35% of the average strength (of the entire Defence Forces) for those years. Comdt King said military personnel voluntarily give up many civil liberties. "They willingly put themselves in danger; they have no right to strike or unionise; all they expect is that they are fairly treated by their employers in the Department of Defence. They should be ensuring that the Defence Forces are looked after, as their counterparts in the UK Ministry of Defence do," the senior officer said. He's expected to comment further on these issues when he addresses the Oireachtas Committee on Defence. A comment has been sought from the Minister's office. The current family law system is broken and failing the most vulnerable people in Irish society, a conference has heard. Treoir, the national federation of services for unmarried parents and their children, said both the legal aid and the family mediation services were seriously under-resourced. At Treoir's annual general meeting, keynote speaker Helen Coughlan, vice-chairperson of the Law Society's Family & Child Law Committee, said: The current family law system is broken and failing the most vulnerable in our society. Legal aid has not kept abreast of developments in the complexity of the law, the needs of clients or what it now involves to defend and represent a client. She said the longer the issue of legal aid was ignored the more the country was contributing to a justice gap, with one inequality compounding another. Treoir chief executive Damien Peelo said there are significant problems with how the legal system and family courts operated. The family mediation service is grossly under-resourced and this has significant consequences for shared parenting and for parents unable to afford often costly legal services. Calls to our national information service tell a painful story of people's difficulties in accessing legal services and how the family courts exacerbate tensions between vulnerable parents. He called on Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan to introduce a properly resourced alternative dispute resolution system. We need a family law system that is fit for purpose and that everyone, irrespective of means, can access. It was pointed out that while the voice of the child can now be heard in custody/access and guardianship hearings that no resources have been provided to pay for an expert report. The family courts system has been repeatedly criticised. Earlier this month, Chief Justice Frank Clarke warned the Government that the family law courts required the most urgent attention and operated in dreadful conditions. The country's top judge said that although the site for the new family courts facility is shovel ready not enough money had been given for it. The Irish Examiner reported last month that the Courts Service estimated the new Family Law Centre and Children's Court complex would cost up to 140 million - but that the Department of Justice was only allocating a budget of 80m. The Courts Service said that if it got the necessary funding, the complex would take approximately four to five years to build. The location of the Family Law Centre and Children's Court, on Hammond Lane, beside the Four Courts, was announced almost four and a half years ago. Azerbaijan is celebrating the 101st anniversary of establishment of Azerbaijan Democratic Republic. The 20th century became known in history not only as the age of science and technology, but also as the age of liberation from colonization and establishment of national states. The 1917 Russian Revolution put an end to the Russian Empire. On May 28, 1918, the Democratic Republic of Azerbaijan was founded. The Democratic Republic of Azerbaijan was the first democratic republic in the East. It was a parliamentary state, had a flag, an anthem and an army. ADR existed only 23 months until April 28, 1920, but it reached great achievements in the short period of its history. It was the first republic given voting right to the women and securing the equality between men and women. A great work has been done in the spheres of national army building, issuing national currency, establishing national bank, democratization, free elections, international relations and recognition of the independence of Azerbaijan by the international community, securing the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, conducting economic reforms and other fields. The founding day of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic is celebrated as the national holiday of Azerbaijan since 1990. The official reception on the occasion of the Republic Day at Buta Palace in Baku yesterday. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev made a speech at the reception. Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a letter of congratulations to llham Aliyev on the occasion of the national day of Azerbaijan, the Republic Day. Azerbaijan has been confidently moving forward along the path of socio-economic development, and plays an important role in addressing topical issues on international agenda, the letter reads. Russia highly appreciates the relations of strategic partnership with Azerbaijan. I'm sure that through our joint efforts we will continue to successfully develop fruitful bilateral relations in all areas and constructive interaction in ensuring regional stability and security. Undoubtedly, it meets the best interests of our friendly nations, the Russian leader stressed. Vladimir Putin wished Ilham Aliyev the best of health and success, and all citizens of Azerbaijan prosperity and well-being. Findings against Garda Keith Harrison by the Disclosures Tribunal should be quashed because of an alleged prior professional interaction between Mr Justice Peter Charleton and a witness, it has been claimed. The Donegal-based Garda who was strongly criticised in the tribunal's interim reports has brought High Court proceedings on the grounds of an alleged prior professional involvement between the tribunal chair and Chief Superintendent Terry McGinn. The alleged prior engagement related to when the Chief Superintendent was the Garda liaison to the Morris Tribunal, which considered allegations about gardai in Donegal between 2002 and 2005 when Mr Justice Charleton was that tribunal's senior counsel. Lawyers for the State claim the action should be dismissed and that Garda Harrison's proceedings are fundamentally misconceived. The State also argues no reasonable observer could form an apprehension of bias, as alleged by Garda Harrison, on the part of Mr Justice Charleton based on the professional interaction with Supt McGinn between 2002 and 2005. The hearing of the judicial proceedings where Garda Harrison seeks an order quashing findings in the Tribunal's second interim report and the findings of the third interim report in so far as it relates to Garda Harrison, commenced before Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly today. Garda Harrison, represented by Mark Harty SC, also seeks a declaration that the judge has acted in breach of the Garda's rights to natural and constitutional justice and under Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights. Garda Harrison argues the Disclosures Tribunal rejected allegations made by him and his partner, Marissa Simms, and had exonerated others they had made complaints about. The couple's claims included that Ms Simms was compelled by gardai to make a statement against Garda Harrison which led to a Tusla referral. Garda Keith Harrison and Marissa Simms in September 2017. Garda Harrison also alleged he was the victim of a five-year intimidation campaign after arresting a fellow officer for drink driving in Athlone in 2009. In an interim report, Mr Justice Charleton said all of Garda Harrison, who was criticised by the tribunal, and Marisa Simm's allegations examined by the tribunal were "entirely without any validity. In contrast, Mr Justice Charleton praised the conduct of the chief superintendent and her management of the Donegal Division and was a key witness in relation to matters contained in protected disclosure made by Garda Harrison. Garda Harrison brought proceedings after becoming aware of newspaper reports which show a prior involvement between the Judge and the Chief Superintendent. Counsel said articles published by the Irish Times in 2006 quoted criticism of reconstruction from the Morris tribunal broadcast on RTE that had created a poor impression of Chief Supt. McGinn The articles quoted Mr Justice Charleton, then an SC, as saying all those who had worked with Supt McGinn had great respect for the assistance she had given the Morris tribunal and it was unfair to her that listeners might think she was not interested in the truth. It is claimed the articles and transcripts of the Morris tribunal disclose that the Judge did know the Chief Superintendent and had worked with her and was in contact with her. Mr Harrison's lawyers asked the chairman to withdraw the reports concerning his client. However, the tribunal rejected that request. The tribunal said Chief Supt McGinn's role as liaison was independent of the Morris tribunal, her involvement with Morris was well known, and Mr Justice Charleton had no recollection of the comments he had made to the tribunal about the broadcast. In its statement of opposition, the State denies the claims. It argued that the "minimal professional involvement" between the Judge and Chief Supt McGinn does not show any perceived or actual bias. The State also denies the claim that Mr Justice Charleton was not sufficiently impartial and independent to fairly assess the issues between Chief Superintendent McGinn and Garda Harrison. The Judge had, when acting during the Morris tribunal, made a clarification to protect the good name of the Chief Superintendent in his professional capacity as Senior Counsel to that tribunal with the approval of its chairman Mr Justice Frederick Morris. It was also denied that Mr Justice Charleton should have disclosed the nature of the previous professional involvement or should have recused himself from dealing with all matters concerning Garda Harrison. The hearing continues. Puzzles hub Visit our brain gym where you will find simple and cryptic crosswords, sudoku puzzles and much more. Updated at midnight every day. PS ... We would love to hear your feedback on the section right HERE An eight-year-old girl who suffered second degree scald burns when a cup of hot chocolate tipped in to her lap on a Ryanair flight has settled her High Court action for 150,000. American, Sriya Venkata Neti was travelling on a Ryanair flight from Rome to Krakow, Poland with her parents, when she took a sip of the hot chocolate but recoiled from the hot liquid and the paper cup fell on top of her. Her Counsel Hugh Mohan SC told the High Court the little girl suffered significant burns. A medical report handed into the court said the hot liquid pooled on the seat causing extreme burning pain and the child's mother had to unbuckle her from the seat and her clothing had to be removed. Where the liquid had hit, the mother reported her daughter's skin was gone and blisters were forming in other areas and the child was crying. Upon landing in Krakow the girl was airlifted to hospital and was then transferred to Toronto, Canada where she spent eight days being treated as an outpatient for her burns before returning home to California. Sriya Venkata Neti who is now 11 years old and lives in Freemont, California had through her father Srinivas Neti sued Ryanair over the accident on the Rome Krakow flight on June 25, 2016. She had claimed she had been served a hot chocolate at such a high temperatures that the liquid could and did cause severe scalding and burns to her and there was an alleged failure to provide a safe method of service of hot beverages, in particular hot chocolate suitable for minors. It was further claimed there was an alleged failure to warn the little girl of the known danger posed by the temperatures at the which the chocolate was served. It was also alleged there was an alleged failure to provide any or any adequate assistance to the child and her family post spillage and that after a time it was allegedly requested the little girl be moved to a toilet for treatment so as not to disturb other passengers. The alleged failure of the cabin crew it was claimed to prove any adequate assistance to the girl or her parents allegedly resulted in the burns suffered being exacerbated. In particular, it was claimed the alleged failure to provide any or any adequate means of cooling the burns worsened the injuries considerably. Ryanair denied all the claims. The girl's counsel Hugh Mohan SC told the court it was a slightly unusual case in that under the Warsaw Convention if a passenger on an international flight can show that bodily injuries were caused by an accident, an unexpected or unusual event that is external to the passenger, then the passenger need not show negligence or fault as against the airline. The young girl suffered burns to her thighs and buttocks and has been left with scarring, the court heard. In an affidavit to the court, the girl's father Srinivas Neti said the scarring has now substantially improved and whereas the injuries sustained were extremely serious, his daughter has made a good recovery and the condition of her injuries has improved considerably. Approving the settlement Mr Justice Kevin Cross said when Sriya was scalded it must have been extremely painful. The young girl has also been left with scarring but the court heard she has made a good recovery. He also took in to account that the family now wanted to get on with their lives and to put the incident behind them. The Green Party has urged the government to go back to the drawing board on proposals for directly-elected mayors in Cork and Waterford and engage people through a Citizens Assembly process. The party's spokesperson on political reform, Cllr Oliver Moran, said the narrowness of the defeat highlighted the deep demand for local government reform. "If the Government are serious about reform of local government then the narrow rejection of this proposal needs to be taken as a mandate to go back to the drawing board and deliver something better," he said. "Limerick will now have a directly elected mayor. I don't want Cork to be left behind but clearly the opposition to this proposal cannot be dismissed. "The citizens' assemblies on same-sex marriage, on the Eighth Amendment, and on climate change have shown they clearly work in both capturing the public mood and making well thought-through proposals." His call came as the war of words over the handling of the mayoral campaign in Cork intensified. John Paul Phelan, the Minister of State with responsibility for local government reform, accused Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin of chickening out of the campaign in his home city. He said while much of the focus was on the possible terms and conditions of the role, the narrow margin of defeat in both cities was proof that outright political opposition to the proposal was a major factor. The most glaringly obvious thing in Cork, which was completely the opposite in Limerick, where Fianna Fail and the Collins faction in particular got involved in the campaign and supported it, Micheal Martin, who has been a supporter of directly elected mayors for many years, didnt make a single statement of support for it, the junior minister said. And in fact, his close councillors in Cork City Council virtually unanimously opposed it - he decided to essentially chicken out in favour of supporting his councillors as opposed to Cork city. Speaking to Morning Ireland, Mr Phelan also defended the governments plebiscite campaign and the holding of the vote at the same time as the local and European elections which, he said, helped to guarantee voter turnout. Meanwhile, voters in Dublin will get an opportunity to discuss the proposal for a directly elected mayor through the Citizens Assembly process, which the Minister said should be established this side of summer. He said he expects it to be a relatively short process which should conclude over two or three weekends, with the vote likely to take place alongside one of the referendums due to take place next year. And amid concerns about the high level of spoiled votes in the various elections this year, the Minister confirmed that an electoral commission will be established later this year to address issues like that. He also suggested that it may be time to consider the introduction of certain minimum requirements to limit the number of candidates who can declare for European elections, which he said should have a slightly higher threshold for candidacy than is the case today, especially in constituencies with over a dozen counties. Among the possible requirements would be the need for potential candidates to secure the nomination of 250-registered voters before being allowed to add their name to the ballot paper. The Business Minister Heather Humphreys has said many businesses are feeling the pressure from the cost of personal injuries claims. Her comments to the Dail come amid the "Swing-Gate" controversy surrounding Fine Gael TD Maria Bailey. Deputy Bailey has dropped plans to sue a Dublin hotel after she fell off a swing at the property. She will meet the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar in the coming days to find out if she will be sanctioned by the party for her comments on the claim. File picture of Business Minister Heather Humphreys Minister Humphreys told the Dail: "Many (businesses) do feel that they are being punished for this compensation culture, and I have to say that my view on this is very simple - people need to have some common sense and they need to be responsible for their own personal safety. "So if you trip or you fall, you have to ask yourself why it happened, and more often than not the answer is because of your own carelessness." Earlier: Micheal Martin: People with rising insurance premiums angered by Maria Bailey's actions The Fianna Fail leader doesn't think Maria Bailey understands the wider context of her actions. The Fine Gael TD dropped her case against a Dublin hotel over the weekend after she fell off a swing. However, following an interview yesterday, she came in for criticism from both her party colleagues and the public. Staff at Fine Gael HQ are said to be angry that they were not informed in advance of the interview. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin says claims like Deputy Bailey's affect everyone. "I don't get the sense that Maria really gets the wider context of this which is about the public policy in trying to reduce the claims culture in our society. "I think this experience goes against that and many people across the country are angry about that because they see it in their insurance premium rising all the time." Update 12.20pm: This morning's train disruption is one of the worst Irish Rail has ever experienced. Over 20,000 passengers were delayed when services were suspended at Heuston Station. The signalling system, which ensures the safe movement of trains, suffered a major fault shortly before 6am. Services resumed after a temporary manual signalling system was put in place. Barry Kenny from Irish Rail says they've yet to fix the main fault. "It certainly was the worst fault that we've experienced in quite a number of years in terms of severity, the time time that it happened and the impact on services. "We're still working to rectify the main fault which is in the computerised signalling system which controls all of these routes. "We'll continue to do that, rectify that, understand what happened to ensure we can prevent it happening again." Digital Desk Earlier: Trains resume after 'thousands and thousands' of passengers affected by signal fault in Heuston Update 8.21am: Everything departing Heuston station now will be on time. Four to five intercity services from Cork, Limerick, Waterford that departed before the fault happened will be "significantly delayed". The major signal fault has still not been rectified, a manual signalling system is now being operated. It took some time to get up and running as "signalling is extremely safety critical", Irish Rail spokesperson Jane Cregan told RTE radio's Morning Ireland. "There will be knock-on delays into and out of Heuston until mid-morning." Update 8.10am: Limited train services are now moving despite the signal fault in Heuston Station. The services operating through a manual signalling system are: 05:50 Cork Heuston, 05:30 Limerick Heuston 06;15 Cork Heuston 05:40 Portlaoise Heuston Nothing else is moving at present. Update 7.19am: Irish Rail has admitted that there are thousands and thousands of commuters affected by this mornings signal failure at Heuston Station, writes Vivienne Clarke There are currently no services operating into and out of Heuston. Spokesperson Jane Cregan told RTE radios Morning Ireland that the volume of passengers impacted would make it impossible to provide a substitute bus service as is normal practice. Thousands and thousands are impacted, there wouldnt be a sufficient number of buses in the country to transport those passengers. Ms Cregan acknowledged that some passengers are effectively stranded on trains that had already left their stations of origin, but the majority had not yet left the stations. We are advising them to seek alternative transport. Because the signal system is down we cant do anything. Due to a major signal fault. There are currently no services operating into and out of Heuston. This includes Newbridge/Hazelhatch to Grand Canal Dock services. DART, Commuter and Intercity services into and out of Connolly are not impacted. Update to follow Iarnrod Eireann #StaySafe (@IrishRail) May 28, 2019 The major signal fault means that no trains are coming into or out of Dublins Heuston Station. At present were working to rectify the fault. She explained that a number of services had commenced before the fault was detected so the early morning train from Cork to Dublin is stranded in Charleville while the Waterford train is in Kilkenny. In reality theres nothing moving. Were not in a position to provide bus services because of the numbers. The Supreme Court has overturned a decision striking down a law under which a man was charged with withholding information in connection with the killing of a young man in Sligo. The State and DPP had appealed against a High Court declaration that Section 9.1.b of the Offences Against the State (Amendment) Act 1998 is unconstitutional because it offends the constitutional right to remain silent and is "impermissibly vague and uncertain". Giving the five-judge Supreme Court decision reversing that declaration, Mr Justice Peter Charleton said Section 9.1.b does not change the principle that, unless a participant wishes to speak of their own volition, the law should not compel them to self-incriminate as to their commission of a crime. The challenge to section 9.1.b was brought by Michael Sweeney, Bog Road, Ballinrobe, Co Mayo. He was a suspect in the Garda investigation into the killing of 23-year-old Tom Ward who was beaten to death outside his parents' home in Sligo and died on August 13, 2007. Mr Sweeney was twice interviewed informally by gardai before being arrested and detained for questioning in connection with the killing. He was never charged with that offence but was charged in 2011 under Section 9.1.b with withholding information which might have led to arrest or prosecution of another person in relation to it. He was due for trial in 2014 but that was on hold pending his challenge to Section 9.1.b. His action was against the State and DPP and submissions were also made by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission. In the Supreme Court judgment on today, Mr Justice Charleton said it was an agreed fact Mr Sweeney was warned by gardai at all times he was not obliged to say anything unless he wished to do so. Mr Sweeney had said "absolutely nothing", whether incriminating or exculpatory or otherwise. He was not being prosecuted for saying anything in a police context but rather for alleged awareness of this murder and not assisting the authorities in accordance with the statutory definition. There was "nothing" in the legislation which would enable any aspect of such interview to be used in evidence against an accused. As a general proposition, the law also does not permit the prosecution to question an accused at trial about why they chose not to answer a particular question, he added. Section 9.1.6 "could in no rational way" be construed as enabling a conviction merely because a person when officially questioned remained silent. The provision, he said, applies only to those with information about the commission of a serious offence. Those who have such information, and who know or believe that disclosing it might be of material assistance in securing the apprehension, prosecution or conviction of another person, are obliged to disclose it to the Garda. The section specifically rules out those who have a reasonable excuse for not coming forward, he said. That meant the requirement to co-operate applies to witnesses to crime, those who are non-participants or who otherwise lack reasonable excuse for not coming forward. Witnessing crime or being at the scene of a crime or having information about a crime is not an offence, he said. Where a serious crime, in this case, murder, has been committed, those with relevant information are obliged by the section to communicate it to gardai. The inherent obligations of the section are "clear", he said. The section, as it applies to this offence, the commission by another person of murder, is not productive of inconsistent application or likely to lead to arbitrary enforcement. The "definitional elements" of the crime are clear and do not infringe the constitutional prohibition against vagueness, he held. Section 9.1.6 protects the right to silence of any person who does not wish to speak about their own involvement in a crime and protects the right to silence where to speak would incriminate that person, he ruled. Orders arising from the judgment will be made next week. A woman who transferred more than 100,000 from her employer to a man who made implied threats has received an 18-month suspended sentence. Annette Sheehan (aged 38) with an address at Laurence Court, Mount Argus Road, Harolds Cross, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to 27 charges of theft and money laundering of 148,289 on dates between November 2017 and February 2018. Detective Garda Rory O'Connor told Diana Stuart BL, prosecuting, that Sheehan was working as an office manager for a solicitor's office and that the solicitor received a call from a local bank manager saying that his account had been frozen due to suspicious transfers. When asked about the transfers Sheehan confessed to making them on behalf of a man, Graham McAuley (aged 39), with whom she was in a relationship. She told the solicitor that if she had not transferred the money then there would have been trouble. Gda O'Connor agreed with Michael Higgins SC, defending, that prior to taking money from her employer she gave McAuley almost all of her life savings. He said that while all of the money taken from her employer was recovered, none of the 25,000 she gave McAuley has been returned. He said that Sheehan and McAuley met through an online dating site and he began to ask her for money. He claimed he had means, but he could not currently access his accounts and manipulated her by saying the money was a short-term loan. Gda O'Connor said there was a degree of intimidation involved and that McAuley made implied threats. He said it was his opinion that she was absolutely hoodwinked and that he considered her as also being a victim. Sheehan has no previous convictions. McAuley of Broc House, Nutley Lane, Dublin 4, was sentenced last February after he pleaded guilty to handling the stolen cash. He was ordered to carry out 240 hours community service in lieu of an 18-month prison sentence. In sentencing Sheehan, Judge Cormac Quinn took into account the fact that she made admissions to both her employer and gardai, that she expressed remorse and shame and that every penny was recovered. He said it was clear there was an element of fear within Sheehan's relationship with McAuley and that she had lost both her savings and her employment. He acknowledged that a psychological report, which stated that Sheehan was vulnerable to being abused and exploited also put her at a low risk of re-offending. Judge Quinn said, given Sheehan's personal circumstances, her co-operation with the investigation and the fact that the garda has spoken up for her, he was satisfied that it was a rare case that falls within exceptional cases and justifies a suspended sentence. He sentenced Sheehan to 18 months in prison which he suspended in full on strict conditions. A somewhat unusual conservation project is about to begin in Cork - taking a peek under some fig leaves hiding the modesty of six 200-year-old sculptures of males. Over the course of two weeks, as part of Cork Midsummer Festival, sculpture conservator, Eoghan Daltun, will remove the fig-leaves from six male figures from Crawford Art Gallerys historic collection of Canova Casts. The 200-year-old casts have a rich history. Born out of the defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo, they were a gift to the Prince Regent (later King George IV) who, in turn, regifted them to the people of Cork. The six plaster casts to receive conservation treatment are Adonis, Apollo Belvedere, Laocoon and His Sons, and the Belvedere Torso. It is thought these fig leaves were added following the arrival of the Canova Casts in 1818 and the conservation work will solve the mystery of what lies beneath them. Now that the much-loved sculpture gallery in which the works are displayed has been redecorated, it is the turn of the casts to receive the next phase in their conservation work from an expert conservator. Fig leaves have often been used to conceal nudity in art - a direct reference to Adam and Eves use of them to cover their modesty following their expulsion from paradise. After the fig reveal, the plaster leaves will be retained and placed on display as archival objects in their own right. The question of whether or not the casts require some sensitive remodelling to restore them to reflect the marble originals in the Vatican Museums is one that has gallery staff on tenterhooks. And the public can witness the important conservation work as it happens. The Canova Casts were made under the supervision of renowned neo-classical Italian sculptor, Antonio Di Canova, and were originally made up of 219 whole figures, torsos, busts, reliefs and fragments. Visitors can drop in and watch the conservation work live in the sculpture gallery weekdays from 17 - 21 and 24 - 28 June 2019, and follow the Gallery on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for live updates of The Fig Reveal. Up to 50 sailors are sleeping onboard ships during their time off, because they can't afford soaring rents and there is not enough proper accommodation at the naval base in Cork. PDFORRA, the association which represents enlisted personnel in the Defence Forces, said it is very concerned about the effects this is having on them. Association president Mark Keane, who works on the naval base at Haulbowline Island, said the sailors are predominantly young and some have been sleeping on the ships for a couple of years. A report compiled in March 1992 by the then Defence Forces Quartermaster General (equivalent today to a Deputy Chief of Staff)recommended that accommodation at military barracks should be adequate and 'aspire to the standard within the civilian community generally.' However, the Department of Defence hasn't properly addressed the problem at several military installations, including Haulbowline. Mr Keane said: The number is increasing all the time. Unlike other public servants they don't get a rent allowance. If they come from near the base they can still live at home. But we recruit from all over the 32 counties and those who have to come from a long way away simply can't compete for accommodation in rent pressure zones close to the base. The White Paper on Defence published in 2015 also identified the need for more and better standards of living quarters in Haulbowline. A year earlier a masterplan for the future development of the whole island was prepared by senior officers at the behest of then Minister for Defence Simon Coveney. The masterplan identified disused Victorian-era buildings on the base for regeneration. It suggested that one of the buildings, known as Block 6, could be turned into accommodation. It also suggested that other blocks could be used for research and development facilities and to house a maritime museum. Mr Keane said the report indicated that it would cost more than 9m to convert Block 6 to accommodation and work on it could start in 2021. However, he said he believed this timeline was 'aspirational' and even if it was adhered to, it wouldn't address the now chronic accommodation crisis at the base. "We want to see where this plan is going. In short, show us the money to build it." He said it cannot be good for sailors to end up sleeping in their place of work for lengthy periods. "It's not ideal sleeping where you work. You really don't have any proper downtime," he said. Meanwhile, the former head of the elite Army Ranger Wing (ARW) said it was still common that soldiers were sleeping in cars because there was no accommodation at bases. Former Commandant Cathal Barry said he had personally witnessed this as recently as two months ago at a barracks in Galway. A Boeing aircraft of Nordwind Airlines en route from Blagoveshchensk to Moscow made an emergency landing in Irkutsk, East Siberia, today, the airports press service said. "The plane of Nordwind Airlines made an emergency landing in Irkutsk while performing a flight from Blagoveshchensk to Moscow," TASS cited the spokesperson as saying. There are 149 passengers onboard the plane. The preliminary cause of the incident is an altitude indicator failure. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has restated Ireland's support for Manfred Weber to replace Jean Claude Juncker as Europe's most senior politician. As EU leaders gathered in Brussels to begin the process to choose who will occupy the top jobs in European politics for the next five years, the Taoiseach said his commitment to back Mr Weber remains, despite reports suggesting that he is now backing Michel Barnier, the EU's Brexit negotiator. Among those present was Theresa May who joined counterparts from the 27 other European Union countries before she leaves office next month. Although Britain is due to leave the EU on Oct 31 - and Mrs May is due to depart Downing Street before that - she emphasised that she would "play a constructive role". "While we are still a member of the EU, while I am Prime Minister, I will be continuing to meet the obligations of the office, the duties of the office, and that includes being here today where we are due to discuss the top jobs in EU institutions. The UK will continue to play a constructive role during the time of this extension of Article 50," she said as she arrived in Brussels. As well as a replacement for Mr Juncker, the national leaders are also likely to consider candidates for European Council president, EU high representative - responsible for foreign affairs - and head of the European Central Bank. Mr Varadkar re-stated his support for Manfred Weber to become Commission president, despite growing doubts over his candidacy. Reports had suggested that Ireland would now support Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier but the Taoiseach said his commitment to Mr Weber remains: That commitment stands, I had a very good meeting earlier on with the EPP party leaders and also met Manfred Weber. I am somebody who believes in a more democratic Europe, and that means that the result of the European election should be reflected in who we elect or appoint as president of the European Commission. And the EPP has won the most seats in the European Parliament elections, and our candidate for that position is Manfred Weber, who again has been to Ireland many times and has been very supportive of Irish interests." He did qualify his response by saying: I am also realistic in the sense that I know that the EPP doesnt have enough seats on its own to form a majority, nor can a majority be formed without us. "So what we will have to do is get together with the Social Democrats, and also talk to the Greens, the Conservatives and also the Liberals, and may need to bring one or two of them on board as well, and that is going to involve of course a compromise, being the largest group, the most important position, the president of the European Commission, I believe should come to our group and our candidate for that position is Manfred Weber. Ireland and France have made a joint pitch for EU funding for a 1bn electricity link between the countries as part of post-Brexit energy planning. In Brussels, ahead of the leaders' summit, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and French President Emmanuel Macron signed a joint request to the European Commission seeking financial support for the Celtic Interconnector. The proposed connector between the south coast of Ireland and the north-west coast of France would stretch for 500 kilometres under the sea. They have written to commission president Jean-Claude Juncker requesting support for a grant application that would see the EU foot 60% of the bill. China and a number of other states have stopped buying oil from Iran after the U.S. announced a decision not to extend exemptions from its sanctions for certain countries, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources in the Iranian oil industry. According to member of the economic commission of the Iranian parliament Rahim Zare, China, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Turkey, which were previously granted waivers, purchased from Iran a total of 1.6 million barrels of oil daily in March, but have ceased purchases since. "They are really abiding by the sanctions," the newspaper cited him a saying. The newspaper noted that when a tanker belonging to China was loaded from the oil terminal on Kharg Island in Iran in mid-May, it was perceived as the resumption of purchases of crude oil by Beijing. However, the tanker subsequently sailed to Indonesia, and at the moment remains off the coast of Iran in the Gulf of Oman, the newspaper said, citing maritime tracking resource FleetMon. At the same time, Iran has not yet lost hope of resuming sales to China. A private Iranian trader, who last delivered Iranian oil to China two months ago, said he was negotiating the sale of up to 2 million barrels to a Chinese mini-refinery, but noted he had not yet received the approval of the governments of the two countries. Eight of Irans top oil customers were granted waivers that allowed them to temporarily continue buying Iranian oil. In April, the White House announced that the U.S. would end waivers for oil sanctions on Iran as it seeks to bring the countrys oil exports to zero. The United States said the eight nations had agreed to dramatically reduce oil imports from Iran. A senior analyst of 'Uralsib', Alexei Kokin, speaking to Vestnik Kavkaza, noted that we should not expect a surge in oil prices now. It wasn't big news for the market. Everyone knows that Chinese companies work all over the world and dont want to have any difficulties with U.S. sanctions. This week there have already been reports that exports from Saudi Arabia to China reached record levels, which means that the Chinese have already shifted from Iran to Saudi Arabia," he recalled. "At the same time, it is important to note that only large Chinese companies have abandoned Iranian oil, while some small ones will probably use some gray schemes. If we talk about the official import of Iranian oil to China for such companies as CNPC and Sinopec, apparently, it is close to zero indeed now. But small refineries may well take risks, since American sanctions do not affect them, they only work on the domestic market," Alexey Kokin pointed out. "The Iranians may also continue to try selling their oil to China. In terms of the global market, only one indicator is important - how much physical oil is sent from Iran to foreign markets, and it does not matter whether it goes to China or not. And this indicator can be tracked, only if one watches tankers leaving Iranian terminals from space day and night," the senior analyst of 'Uralsib' said. A takeover by Chinese regulators of a troubled lender with links to a missing tycoon jolted markets on Monday, lifting interbank financing costs for some smaller banks and raising worries about broader risks to the country's financial system. Baoshang is partly owned by Chinese financial group Tomorrow Holdings, whose chairman Xiao Jianhua has not been seen since 2017. Credit:AP The China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CBIRC) will take control of Inner Mongolia-based Baoshang Bank for a year from May 24, because it posed serious credit risks, the regulator and the central bank said on Friday, in a rare move to seize direct control of a bank. The seizing of Baoshang fanned concerns about indebted small banks across the country, pushing up yields on some negotiable certificates of deposit (NCD) issued by regional banks by more than 10 basis points on Monday, traders said. "We recommend paying close attention to the impact on liquidity that could be triggered by this event," analysts at China Merchant Securities said in a note, referring to the Baoshang takeover. In some of Australia's Indigenous communities, being "rich" might be as simple as having a full fridge. "There's a really stark contrast in what people regard as wealth," said Yorta Yorta man Ian Hamm, chair of Indigenous financial literacy body the First Nations Foundation. "That a population group in Australia thinks having enough to eat is actually success is a shocking indictment of where we are." Ian Hamm wants to see a national strategy for financial services to better serve Indigenous Australians. Credit:Justin McManus The finding comes from 'Money Stories', a report released on Wednesday by the First Nations Foundation, NAB and the Centre for Social Impact. It surveyed over 600 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians to examine what financial resilience meant to them. Malvern East One of seven strata retail shops on the corner of Dene Avenue and Malvern Road has sold for $610,000. Shop 1 at 1836 Malvern Road sold off-market through Beller Commercials database, Fred Nuncara and Liam Rafferty said. The 100 sq m retail space in an improving precinct transacted on a 5.1 yield, they said. Mornington Demand for industrial property is robust. Two warehouses on the same block on the corner of 104 Watt Road and Milgate Drive sold for $890,000. They were purchased by a passive investor looking for stable returns on a yield of 5.05 per cent, Nichols Crowders Josh Monks and Tom Crowder said. Camberwell Two modern office suites joined into one at 102 & 103/ 685 Burke Road have sold for $660,000. The property, which had a tenant paying $37,000 net rental and building area of 154 sq m, sold to a potential owner-occupier, Prowse Burns Commercials Philip Prowse and Fred Bartlett said. Collingwood Anchored by two tenants, 16 Robert Street and 15 Glasshouse Road sold under the hammer for $2.05 million. More than 20 potential buyers came through the property at open for inspections, Beller Commercials Max Warren and Fred Nuncara said. It was returning rent of $136,723 per annum and sold on a yield of 6.6 per cent. 5 Clive Street Springvale sold under the hammer for $1.34 million. Springvale Crabtrees agents Chris McKenzie and Niki Drendel have sold an industrial property at 5 Clive Street. Five bidders battled it out for the property, which sold under the hammer for $1.34 million to a local investor. It is leased to a long-term tenant who signed a new five-year deal beginning December 1. Melbourne A 92 sq m strata office in Equitable House at 343 Little Collins Street sold to an owner occupier for $625,000. Knight Franks Jack De Lutis, who brokered the deal, said owner-occupiers remain the dominant buyer group for CBD strata office space due to the low cost of finance, significant rental growth and the desire to build ownership wealth. The average rate for CBD strata office now sits at an all-time high of $10,000 per sq m. LEASES Camberwell A refurbished office at 982-984 Toorak Road has leased to Kinesiology Connection. Prowse Burns Commercials Philip Prowse said the education group took 314 sq m plus 17 car spaces at commencing rent of $65,000 net. Box Hill South Sydney-based building company, Permax, has signed a five-year lease for Unit 5/23-25 Clarice Road. The modern two-level, 214 sq m office warehouse included two on-site car parks and was leased by Dean Alexander of Gorman Commercial for a gross rate just over $191 per sq m. Surrey Hills Developers of the neighbouring Luxe Surrey Hills have leased 296A Canterbury Road on a short-term 18 month lease while they complete their project. They are planning to use the property as an administration and sales office. It was leased at $300 per sq m by Dean Alexander from Gorman Commercial. LOGOS has added another warehouse to its portfolio which includes the Kmart Distribution Centre in Truganina. Credit:Michael Clayton-Jones The groups latest acquisition, a warehouse Goodman is constructing at 30 Logistics Drive in Truganina, is leased to Amart on an initial 10 year term and anticipated to be completed early next year. LOGOS past deals include the Truganina Logistics Estate and Kmart Distribution Centre, both in Palmers Road in Truganina. The under-construction 48,770 square metre warehouse is the Macquarie-backed unlisted funds fourth purchase in 12 months in Melbournes booming western industrial heartland. Industrial player LOGOS has snapped up a purpose-built warehouse leased to furniture retailer Amart in a $70 million off-market deal with global property heavyweight Goodmans. LOGOS and other industrial-focused REITs are riding an e-commerce and logistics boom driven by consumers changing online shopping habits. Strong earnings from big listed funds like Goodman and Charter Hall have focused investors attention on the industrial sector as its residential and retail cousins lag. LOGOS managers would not be drawn on the sale price, but it is understood it was close to $70 million on an initial yield around 5.25 per cent. Darren Searle, LOGOS Australia and New Zealand head, said the funds Melbourne portfolio now covers 350,000 sq m and has an additional 27 hectares of development land in the Truganina Logistics Estate. The groups Australian portfolio has a target end value of over $4.2 billion. Students face another day of NAPLAN testing after schools suffered more technical glitches during resit exams on Tuesday, including at least one Sydney class that was unable to log on. About 30,000 students across Australia, including 9700 in NSW, had to resit tests after connectivity and platform issues plagued the first round of testing that began on May 14. 'That principal feels gutted that she had them go down this path [of resits] and now the kids are distressed again.' However, some have reported experiencing a range of problems again, including one Sydney principal who said the countdown for some year 5 students' tests started at the point they had left the tests two weeks ago, locking them out in as little as 10 seconds after they began Tuesday's test. "We then had to get all students to reopen the tests ... that whole process took 30 minutes and one class could not be restarted, they're still waiting [to do the test]," the principal wrote in an email to her representative body. Four-year-old Matilda's election pitch went straight to the point: "I would help children feel happy. Her classmate Annabel promised more books and music, while Anais vowed to help people stand up if they fell over. Children vote for council delegates by placing pegs into jars. Credit:Jason South For the past two years, boys and girls at Guardian Blyth Street Early Learning Centre in Brunswick have voted delegates onto a childrens council by weighing up these spiels and placing wooden pegs in jars. Its part of an experiment to teach our youngest citizens about democracy and decision-making. Some topics are so hideously difficult to research that any author who chooses them deserves an award for chutzpah. What if the writer is a complete outsider to the area? Add an elephant stamp. Such is the case of Naomi Wolf, who after hugely successful books on feminism and, latterly, left-wing politics, has ventured into queer history. Outrages focuses on the Victorian era, when the penalties for what is now legal were severe from the penal to the personal. Consider Oscar Wilde, a butterfly famously broken upon a wheel. Consequently, the source matter is either hidden or heavily coded, if not destroyed altogether. Anyone working in the area can expect long hours in the archives. Naomi Wolf's latest book has been criticised for factual inaccuracy. Credit:Brendan O'Shea Yet what is emerging fascinates, showing a past that is a different country indeed. An important aspect is how homosexuality (a word coined only in the 1860s) was defined: as an act rather than an identity. In 1800 that act was sodomy, a capital offence for centuries, but hard to prove. In 1885 the Labouchere Amendment criminalised "gross indecency" between men, more easily proven. Ten years later that law snared Wilde. By Wildes trial a "gay" identity was forming, and Wolfs book is partly an examination of this change. The book focuses on two men, of differing fame and talents, a celebrity author and the fan who found him life-changing. The American poet Walt Whitman - born 200 years ago this week - was celebrated, then and now; John Addington Symonds was similarly a poet, but covertly a homosexual activist and autobiographer. Although a successful writer, much of his work was unpublished or bowdlerised. His pioneering memoirs only appeared unexpurgated in 2016, and Wolf describes her excitement here at reading it for the first time. Where Whitman was exuberantly sexual Symonds was delicate and guarded, with good reason: he was married with four daughters. Symonds also had several close shaves with homosexual scandal and saw its cost. Whitman inspired him to seek justification and precedent for his loves in classical antiquity. Both men became iconic, Symonds belatedly. They were chalk and cheese, as important to gay rights as Wilde although neither became victims. "My life was like a stolen car/The road's on fire/And I just roll," he sings in Stolen Car, a nod to his long years of self-destruction. In some ways, the album is a continuation of the process of self-revelation documented by the memoirs and their spin-offs. But, he says, while it's true he's exploring the same emotional and psychological terrain, he's not merely mining the same old ground. "It started because of the books, but Criminal Record is one step past that," he says. "People think I'm talking about my police record or something, but I just think it's criminal the way we were brought up. I think it's criminal that in the supposedly lucky country there's so many people going hungry, so many people homeless, so many people experiencing domestic violence. I think it's criminal the way poverty is allowed to flourish. "So it's similar, but it's taking it one step past what the book [Working Class Boy] was about. It's about the residue that's left from a childhood like I had and it pisses me off that there's so many people still going through that stuff in this day and age." At 61, Barnes is a long way past the material circumstances of that impoverished childhood. He lives in a compound comprising three side-by-side warehouses in Botany, near Sydney airport, where he and his wife Jane cook for eight or so people most nights and for 30 or more every Sunday, as extended family pour in. Unlike the young James Dixon Swan and his five siblings, no one goes hungry in this household. But the psychological damage has been far harder to shake. In fact, as he wrote in Working Class Man, it was only a close encounter with suicide in 2011 that finally brought home to him just how messed-up he really was. "I woke up in a hotel room and found a noose in the closet where I'd obviously been hanging off it the night before," he tells me. "Once I seen it, it all came back to me. "I'd always joked I was more homicidal than suicidal but obviously I was wrong," he continues. "That made me look back on a whole string of moments through my life and I realised I had probably had suicidal moments since I was a kid. When I started drinking and taking drugs, I didn't drink to have fun, I drank to stop feeling. I took drugs to stop feeling. I drank like somebody who was trying to die." I didn't drink to have fun, I drank to stop feeling. I drank like somebody who was trying to die. He did rehab and fell on and off the wagon "I had to realise it's not just about getting straight, it's about dealing with the issues" but it wasn't until he found someone to whom he could really talk that everything began to fall into place. "He was as integral to getting through it as writing the books was," Barnes says of his therapist. "I used to think I was tough, but there's a difference between bravado and courage and I only started to show courage when I began to get help. So now I make a point of telling people, 'Hey, it's a good thing to ask for help, not a bad thing'." Jimmy Barnes in the documentary of Working Class Boy. Credit:Daniel Boud Professionally, it's certainly paid off. Barnes who still enjoys a single-malt whiskey of an evening while tucked up on the couch watching telly says confronting his past "opened up a whole new range of things for me to talk about and write about and to ask myself". The new album, he says, is about infusing his regular medium, the song, with some of that hard-won insight. But it's not been easy. "Going from writing a chapter about being hungry to writing a chorus [on the same subject] is a big jump," he says. "It's a different discipline. You've got to be precise about it." He's not finished with the longer form, though. There's another volume of non-fiction on the way. There's a second children's book after 2017's Och Aye the G'Nu currently being illustrated. And he's got some adult fiction in the works too, "about a dentist who's a serial killer" he says. "It's pretty funny." And hes not nearly done yet. By the end of the year, there should be a new Cold Chisel album and, if everyone's schedules coincide, a rockabilly album with Chris Cheney (The Living End) and Slim Jim Phantom (Stray Cats). But first, there's this new album, which was written and recorded with one thing above all else in mind: playing it to a flesh-and-blood audience. "It's great to be able to shake off that past and get out with a bunch of new songs to play live," says Barnes, foot tapping, face beaming. "I could play live until I drop." Jimmy Barnes is touring nationally in September and October. Tickets on sale Friday, May 31. www.frontiertouring.com/jimmybarnes Russia is complying with decisions by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) despite its current dubious situation in the Council of Europe, Russian Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe Ivan Soltanovsky said. "Thats a highly essential institution, and Russia is determined to abide by the ECHRs decisions," the diplomat told the Izvestia newspaper. He noted that the situation in the Council of Europe had changed for the better psychologically. "The organization needs to return to the partially forgotten provisions of its Charter, that is, achieving unity of all European countries and creating a common European legal and humanitarian space," he stressed. "Once the basic statutory provisions are restored, the remaining issues that have been highly politicized recently can be resolved, if there is a political will to do so," Soltanovsky added. Alan Jones has re-signed with Macquarie Media after protracted contract negotiations that have dragged on for months. On Tuesday, Macquarie Media announced the Sydney shock jock had been given a two-year contract. Formal contract negotiations kicked-off in late February. Radio host Alan Jones. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen Macquarie Media chairman Russell Tate said in a statement he was pleased that Jones would be staying with the station for at least another two years. "Over his already extraordinary radio career, Alan has dominated Sydney radio with 218 ratings survey wins, including 15 consecutive years at number one on 2GB," he said. "With Alan's current ratings share of the Sydney radio audience amongst the highest it has ever been, his dominance shows no sign of slowing down. All of us at Macquarie are delighted that we will continue along with the ride with one of Australian media's most outstanding performers." If Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas plan for a luxury car tax went down like a cheese souffle in the citys eastern suburbs, its been even less popular in some pockets of Canberra and the trade crowd. The announcement, which will strike at sales of Audis, BMWs, Mercedes and other mid-priced Toorak tractors, comes midway through Australias negotiations with European Union representatives over a long-anticipated free trade agreement. Its no secret the federal governments luxury car tax, which adds 33 per cent to the price of any car worth more than $76,000, has been a much-referenced topic during the negotiations. (Turns out other parts of the world that still have a functioning car industry are quite keen on export agreements to keep them that way.) The subject of the luxury car tax - and whether it would continue as a fixture on the middle and upper rungs of Australias car market - was specifically mentioned in the most recent round of negotiations in November. From a town that defined Australia in the estimation of poet Henry Lawson, to a town that shamed it, the north-western NSW town of Bourke is on a path to redemption. Six years ago Bourke topped the state in six out of eight major crime categories, and the Herald reported that it was more dangerous than any country on earth when its per capita crime rate was compared with United Nations data. The main street of Oxley back in 2013. Credit:James Brickwood These days towns from all over Australia are asking its leaders for advice on how to reduce incarceration rates and improve the prospects of their Aboriginal inhabitants. It has been an interesting journey from the lowpoint of 2013. A heavily guarded Ivan Milat has been moved from a high-security ward in Sydney's Prince of Wales hospital to Long Bay Jail hospital in a convoy of three cars. The convicted serial killer has been in the Randwick hospital since May 13, when he was first transported from his cell at Goulburn supermax jail. He has been diagnosed with advanced cancer of the oesophagus, and told he may only have weeks to live. On Tuesday the 74-year-old travelled in the convoy of cars that left Prince of Wales hospital around 12.25pm.He was seated in the right-hand, back seat of a white Nissan 4WD, which stopped briefly on Randwick's Hospital Road as a large media scrum surrounded the vehicle. Female university students were pressured into giving lap dances, sharing intimate details of their sexual experiences, and being "slapped on the ass by everybody" as they ran past a group of men before entering a party as part of college hazing at the University of New England. The hazing was documented in a report on the Armidale university's residential colleges by the Human Rights Commission. The University of New England in Armidale. The university asked the commission to conduct the report in the wake of its damning 2017 report on sexual assault and harassment across Australian universities, which found the University of New England had the highest rate of sexual assault of any university in the country. Some students told the commission they encountered men at the colleges who either did not understand or did not respect sexual consent. A rural NSW father of six who sent research on missile detection technology to Islamic State now describes the terror organisation as "completely evil", claiming he feels like he has escaped a cult. Electrician Haisem Zahab, 44, told the NSW Supreme Court on Monday the "nail in the coffin" for his dwindling support of IS was the series of bombings carried out on churches and luxury hotels in Sri Lanka, in which more than 250 people died on Easter Sunday this year. A court sketch of Haisem Zahab, 44, who has pleaded guilty to researching and developing rockets and warning systems for Islamic State. Credit:Vincent de Gouw I want to put it on the record that I categorically reject the evil ideology of ISIS, Zahab said from the witness box during his sentencing hearing after pleading guilty to terror-related offences. Ive gone through a period of denial and Ive gone through a period of acceptance where I accept I was wrong and I accept the ISIS ideology was wrong. A new vision for Brisbane's Adelaide Street will see the street turned into a "gateway" into the city centre, with a new walkable boulevard and pocket park, and a tunnel for Brisbane Metro. The primary city street will see significant change when the Brisbane Metro tunnel connecting North Quay to the King George Square Bus Station is built, with Brisbane City Council planning a complete overhaul of Adelaide Street to coincide with the major project. The Brisbane Metro project will see a 200-metre bus tunnel constructed under Adelaide Street. Lord mayor Adrian Schrinner released the draft Adelaide Street vision for community consultation on Tuesday morning. "As part of this, the King George Square Station will be a new front door for many commuters coming into the city, [and] we're going to make sure that is a world-class arrival experience in Adelaide Street and a much more pleasant environment, a safer environment, for pedestrians as well." Three Queensland policemen have been stood down after separate allegations of drink-driving to work, drink-driving while off-duty and accessing confidential information. The Queensland Police Service was investigating a 50-year-old Brisbane constable who was accused of accessing confidential information without authorisation. He was due to appear in Brisbane Magistrate's Court on Wednesday for a computer hacking and misuse charge. In a separate case, a second policeman was accused of drink-driving while on their way to work in their private vehicle and was expected to front Southport Magistrates Court on June 12. The 42-year-old constable from the South Eastern Region was suspended and served a notice to appear charged with failing to provide a specimen of breath. The Ramsay Foundation is in talks to sever ties with the Ramsay Centre for Western Civilisation as conflict escalates over how hundreds of millions of dollars bequeathed by their late benefactor should be spent. Directors of the two boards are odds over how much of Paul Ramsay's $3.5billion fortune should be given to the centre, and whether it should keep the Ramsay name, according to sources familiar with the tense negotiations. Several high-profile business leaders and politicians are involved, including the centre's chair, former prime minister John Howard, and prominent director Kathryn Greiner, who sits on the board of the foundation, which funds the centre. Paul Ramsay died in 2014, leaving a fortune of more than $3.5 billion. Mr Howard wants to preserve the centre's funding and its name, sources said. Separating the two entities would be complicated, sensitive and likely require the transfer of hundreds of millions of dollars. A 17-year-old boy found asleep in a shopping centre has been charged over a string of terrifying home invasions and car thefts across Melbourne where families were woken by balaclava-clad thieves and threatened with knives and iron bars. The teenager is allegedly one of five offenders who forced their way into a family home in Mernda, in Melbourne's north in the early hours of Tuesday morning, attacking one man and stealing a BMW. It was the latest violent home invasion in a city-wide crime spree that began on Sunday night when four men, described by police as being of African appearance, smashed their way into homes in Bentleigh East and Derrimut and carjacked a mother and child in Port Melbourne. The Broadmeadows teen was charged with one count of aggravated burglary, three counts of home invasion, five counts of theft of motor vehicle and three counts of theft. He has been remanded to appear at a children's court at a later date. Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin held a phone conversation with Special Representative of the Georgian Prime Minister for Relations with Russia Zurab Abashidze, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Karasin and Abashidze discussed "certain current issues of bilateral relations and agreed on the date and agenda for the next meeting." Earlier, Abashidze said that the talks are likely to be held in the second half of July, Sputnik Georgia recalls. The sides plan to discuss trade and economic ties, transport communications, as well as humanitarian issues. Its only been six months since Tiffany Wan escaped a murder conviction over the death of her mother, who was brutally bashed with a blunt object and her lifeless body stuffed into a suitcase and thrown into the Swan River. But in a couple of months Tiffany Wan, who was sentenced to four years and 10 months behind bars for being an accessory to the killing, could get access to a multi-million dollar trust left behind by her mother Annabelle Chen. Tiffany Wan on the left with her father Ah Ping Ban, who was found guilty of Annabelle Chen's murder. An investigation by WAtoday has found Ms Chen did not have a will when she died in 2016. But she did have a trust fund which held real estate and land believed to be worth several millions of dollars. Labor's federal leadership has joined Victorian counterparts in a wall of silence over union boss John Setka, after he indicated he would plead guilty to harassing a woman. New Labor leader Anthony Albanese declined to join calls for the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union's Victorian leader to step down from his powerful position. Anthony Albanese would not comment on whether John Setka should step down. Credit:Wolter Peeters Mr Albanese, who has previously called out the union leader's alleged intimidating behaviour, joined the Australian Council of Trade Unions in maintaining silence over Mr Setka's future. Coalition figures in Victoria have called for the union to sack Mr Setka or for him to step down, in comments echoed privately by state Labor sources and publicly by feminist writer Jane Gilmore. Bill Shorten is expected to remain on Labor's frontbench possibly as shadow minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme in a reshuffle that will see only one woman remain in a leadership position. Powerful South Australian senator Don Farrell is expected to remain as Labor's deputy leader in the Senate as NSW senator Kristina Keneally lacks the numbers. Former Labor leader Bill Shorten and NSW senator Kristina Keneally are both jockeying for new roles. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen Penny Wong is expected to remain as Senate leader and foreign affairs spokesperson. This would make her the only woman to hold one of the party's four leadership positions. Richard Marles has long coveted the foreign affairs portfolio and as the incoming deputy leader it is his prerogative to choose his portfolio. Prime Minister Scott Morrison is aiming to put the government's $158 billion income tax cut to the new Parliament in the first week of July, as he urges his ministers to perform and warns his backbench against complacency. Mr Morrison set out the timeline at a Coalition meeting on Tuesday morning, where he hailed the government's success at winning seats from Labor and declared his confidence in doing more of the same at the next election. While the Prime Minister did not set a hard date for the meeting of the 46th Parliament, he told the gathering that he "expected" to see everyone back in Canberra in the first week of July. The date will depend in part on whether the Australian Electoral Office can complete its count from the May 18 election so the writs can be returned in the last week of June. As the boys of the one-child policy era have begun to reach marriage age, the demand for foreign brides like Kanwal has surged, even as the Chinese government has loosened birth restrictions. The allegations of trafficking are a disturbing aspect of China's growing presence in Pakistan, a longtime ally drawn closer lately by expanding economic ties including China's Belt and Road initiative. I prayed daily for hours, asking God to take me safely back to my country, to my people, Rabia Kanwal More Chinese are coming to Pakistan as labourers and investors. In the capital, Islamabad, shops and other businesses have begun catering specifically to them. Detained Chinese nationals, accused of luring Pakistani women into fake marriages, are escorted to court in Lahore, Pakistan. Credit:AP The Pakistani government has cracked down on brokers said to have arranged the marriages, arresting at least two dozen Chinese citizens and Pakistanis earlier this month, and charging them with human trafficking. The raids followed an undercover operation that included attending an arranged marriage, Pakistani media reported. The Chinese embassy denied that Pakistani brides were being mistreated in China. But Human Rights Watch said last month that the trafficking allegations were "disturbingly similar" to past patterns in which women from other poor Asian countries North Korea, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam were brought to China as brides and subjected to abuse. "Both Pakistan and China should take seriously increasing evidence that Pakistani women and girls are at risk of sexual slavery," the rights group's China director, Sophie Richardson, wrote on its website. Pakistani woman Mahek Liaqat also claims she was also lured into an arranged marriage to a Chinese national. Credit:AP Pakistani investigators said men in China paid the brokers to arrange marriages with local women, staying in rented houses in Pakistan until the weddings were performed. The men covered the costs of the ceremonies and in some cases they paid the women's families the equivalent of thousands of dollars, investigators said. None of that is illegal in Pakistan. The human trafficking charges come from the allegations that women were forced into prostitution or brought to China under false pretences. In some cases, investigators say, the men were provided with forged documents indicating that they were Muslim. Other men sought out wives from Pakistan's Christian minority, many of whom are impoverished and subjected to discrimination, investigators said. But virtually all of the women, Christian and Muslim alike, were drawn by the hope of better economic prospects. "My parents said that our neighbour's girls were happy in China, so I would be, too," Kanwal said. She said she met her husband at the marriage broker's office in Islamabad, where there were many other Chinese men and Pakistani women. According to Kanwal, he told her family that he was Muslim and recited the first tenet of the Muslim faith, which every follower must know: "There is no God but God, and Muhammad is his prophet." But Kanwal never saw him pray, even when they visited the famous Faisal Mosque in Islamabad. In February after the wedding, they flew to Urumqi, capital of the Xinjiang region in western China. After a brief stopover there, they flew on to Henan province in central China. Then, after a four-hour drive past fields of wheat and corn, they arrived at Dongzhang village in Shandong province, where she saw her husband's duck farm. It was not the sprawling operation of a wealthy man that she had envisioned, but a modest family farm where he lived with his parents and two brothers. Rabia Kanwal in Gujranwala, Pakistan, last month. Credit:The New York Times "They were not even Muslim and he had faked it all along," she said. "There weren't even proper wash-rooms in their house. I got agitated and started crying." Her husband, Zhang Shuchen, 33, tells a different story. Over a meal of cold-tossed pig liver and stir-fried tomato and egg near his family home in Dongzhang, the boyish farmer acknowledged that he had travelled to Pakistan late last year and paid around $US14,500 ($20,900) to a Chinese broker in the hopes of bringing home a Pakistani bride. It was his first visit to Pakistan, he said, and the poverty there reminded him of China in the 1980s and '90s. When he first met Kanwal, he said, he liked her. But he said he was upfront with her that while he had converted to Islam on paper, he was not a true believer. "I told her I wasn't a Muslim," Zhang said in an interview. He added that Kanwal had taught him the first principle of the Muslim faith. Kanwal later stood by her insistence that she did not know Zhang was not Muslim and denied she had taught him the first principle. Previously a logistics warehouse worker in southern China, Zhang said he now earned about $US2,900 a month farming ducks, far more than the $US180 or so that the average Chinese farmer made per month in 2018, according to China's National Bureau of Statistics. Zhang's income could not be independently verified. But on a recent visit to the Zhang family home, a New York Times reporter found a newly built housing compound with multiple bedrooms and shiny tile floors. Outside the family home, Zhang's mother, who is in her 60s, recalled being puzzled by Kanwal's reactions. "She is religious, so when she came here I went out of my way not to give her any pork," she said. "I stir-fried chicken and made egg omelets for her. But no matter what I served her, she just refused to eat." Kanwal said the family locked her in a room for two days, trying to pressure her to stay. (Zhang denied the accusation.) She managed to email the Pakistani embassy, whose staff connected her through to the Chinese police, who took her away and made arrangements with the embassy for her return to Pakistan. Her stay in China lasted eight days. She said it was "horrible and beyond words". 'Every day of delay is a nightmare' Mr Lee had documented his frustrations in the lead up to his Everest climb on social media throughout May. "Plans getting worse by the day," Mr Lee wrote on Facebook on May 9. "Lot of wind at the summit from the south side direction." He wrote that he was based at the Chinese Base Camp, which is less popular than the base camp on the Nepalese side, but that the Chinese rope fixing team who prepare the path for climbers had not arrived. "Every day of delay is a nightmare," Mr Lee wrote. And he spoke about the particular challenges of trying to prepare for an Everest ascent without using oxygen cylinders. Mr Lee said that without being able to climb higher than Camp One, he was unsure about acclimatising to the low oxygen levels further up the mountain. "The science for acclimatisation for non-O2 [oxygen cylinder climbing] is not as well known. Does one really need to hit high high? Last year a higher point worked OK. It's all out of my hands ... horrible feeling," Mr Lee concluded. Climbing without oxygen appeared important for Mr Lee. When a friend queried his decision on Facebook, Mr Lee said that if he were climbing with oxygen "I might as well chop 50 per cent of the mountain height off." Loading He said he had summitted another extremely high peak, Manaslu, which is the eighth highest mountain in the world and also in Nepal, without oxygen tanks. A day earlier, Mr Lee had been more optimistic, writing that his "support and sherpa team are looking strong and committed." In a post on his blog, he described climbing Everest as "unfinished business" because of a failed attempt that he blamed on "being horrendously let down by the expedition company", which he called an inexperienced, Indian-run company. "I have put a lot of pressure onto myself. I am running out of $$ to keep chasing this dream," Mr Lee wrote. "I will never take supplemental O2, as it is just not me. It is like asking Alex Honnold to use a rope in his monumental solo climb up El Capitan. Defeats the purpose of being there in the first place in my opinion. This will be the last throw of the dice." A mountain under strain The heavy death toll from this year's climbing season has put the issue of overcrowding on the iconic mountain back in the spotlight. Climbers have shared photos taken just below the summit, showing them queued up in a tight column, waiting for their moment to push for the summit. Canadian adventurer and filmmaker Elia Saikaly said he was unlikely to ever return after the chaos he witnessed as he made the summit last Thursday. Mr Saikaly returned from his eighth Everest expedition with a sense of abhorrence, saying he had watched people clamber over dead bodies. "I cannot believe what I saw up there. Death. Carnage. Chaos. Lineups. Dead bodies on the route and in tents at camp 4," he posted on social media after making it safely back to base camp. "People who I tried to turn back who ended up dying. People being dragged down. Walking over bodies." Loading He later told the Ottawa Citizen he was unlikely to make another journey to the summit. "It's a really messed up thing to be in a position where you have to walk over a dead body," he said. "Do I think I'll go back? I don't think so. Not after this season. It was pretty horrific." American doctor Ed Dohring, who made the summit a few days ago, told the New York Times it was "like a zoo" up there, with climbers jostling to take selfies and lined up chest to chest. The rescue of an Australian climber found unconscious on Mount Everest amid overcrowding and multiple fatalities has been described as "the usual chaos" by an acclaimed Australian filmmaker. The climber, Gilian Lee, experienced critical health problems at an altitude of 7500 metres when he was discovered last Wednesday by a four-person mountaineering crew returning from repair work, China Daily reported. The team used a yak to help move him to base camp, before he was taken to a hospital in Kathmandu where he is now recovering. A picture by climber Nirmal Purja shows heavy traffic of mountain climbers lining up to stand at the summit of Mount Everest. Credit:Nirmal Purja, Project Possible Hundreds of climbers from around the world gather each year in the spring to scale Mount Everest, many of them lacking the climbing experience and physical capacity to deal with the altitude. The result is dangerous bottlenecks leaving climbers exposed to the harsh elements for longer than they should be. Australian filmmaker Jennifer Peedom, who has made four documentaries based around Everest including the award-winning 2015 film Sherpa, said the problem has been "happening for years". Brookline, Ohio: A spate of tornadoes pulverised buildings in western Ohio early on Tuesday, killing one person, injuring scores of others and requiring emergency officials to send out snowploughs to clear debris from a major highway, officials and media reports said. Pedestrians pass along storm debris in Dayton, Ohio. Credit:AP At least one tornado hit Dayton and at least two touched down near the city, including one near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, just east of the city, media reports said, part of a series of storms that have ravaged the US mid-west in recent days. Loading There was a risk of more tornadoes and hailstorms from Tuesday afternoon, US time, into the night in Kansas and other mid-west states, while residents in Arkansas and Oklahoma braced for more record-breaking floods, the National Weather Service said. 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 An industry executive has designed a series of courses to equip mortgage brokers and lenders with the sound knowledge base needed to successfully diversify into other markets. Dominic Lambrinos, principal of Chifley Securities, has launched INIC Institute which now offers a range of easy to understand programmes pertaining to property, asset and cashflow finances, as well as the interpretation of financial statements. Mortgage broking is about to experience a seismic shift in its structure and there has never been a more important time to understand the fundamentals of accounts, commercial property funding, cashflow and asset lending, explained Lambrinos. Completion of the courses will earn brokers 7 CPD points and are priced at $397, with a trial covering the first three modules at just $1. INIC provides a deep dive into two major areas of broker diversification: asset finance, with details on the different types of leases and how they are structured; as well as property finance, with exploration of finance facilities for purchases, construction and land and equity releases. According to Scott Pater, broker at Capital Empire, The course was more relevant to the corporate working environment than the university courses [for my finance degree]. Roslyn Dooney, VP of incubation at Secure Private Equity, expressed a similar sentiment. Despite an MBA from a prestigious German business school and more than a decade in the world of financial services, I have never come across a course that explains how to make sense of financial statements so clearly, and in a way that everyone can understand, she said. For more information, visit: https://www.inic.com.au/ Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams Cops are hunting the trigger-happy fiends who lit up a Bedford-Stuyvesant subway station on May 21, striking an innocent bystander. The gunmen drew pistols inside the Franklin Avenue station near Fulton Street at 10:20 p.m., when they opened fire on and missed another unidentified man, cops said. Instead, they struck a 27-year-woman in the foot, before scurrying away from the scene, according to police. Paramedics rushed the injured woman to Kings County hospital in stable condition, cops said. Anyone who provides police with information leading to an arrest can expect up to $2,500 through the NYPDs Crime Stoppers program. The public can phone their tips to (800) 577-8477, log into the Crime Stoppers website at www.nypdc rimes toppe rs.com , tweet @NYPDTips, or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential. Russia is prepared to develop contacts with Ukrainian parliamentarians after the elections to the Verkhovna Rada, but without any unnecessary conditions on their part, Speaker of the Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko said. "We are ready for contacts, but without the policy of dictating, without any artificial, unnecessary conditions. Lets start from scratch, analyze the current state of affairs and how we can remedy the situation and move ahead together," TASS cited her as saying. "We are open to and ready for dialogue. We are waiting for such signals from new [Verkhovna] Rada members and are ready to work to restore and normalize Russian-Ukrainian relations," Matviyenko added. According to her, Russia would like to establish normal, good-neighborly relations with Kiev and the fraternal Ukrainian people. "If the [Verkhovna] Rada is interested in reviving the dialogue with Russia, we will only welcome that," the speaker of the Russian Federation Council stressed. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams Talk about community spirit! Brooklyn Heights resident Sondra Fagen wants to bring victims of natural disasters together for a gathering on the Fourth of July. Fagen has been hosting large gatherings in Brooklyn and beyond for decades, and wants to bring back her tradition with a Christmas in July potluck party for anybody who suffered loss during natural disasters and people looking for a community more broadly. The do-gooder has taken a break in recent years from her event hosting after a brutal subway attack and a cancer diagnosis left her wheelchair-bound, but the 82-year-old said that will not hold her back from organizing another great get-together that could help people from all over the country. Wouldnt it be nice for us to invite people to New York during the holiday season? Its a community basically, Fagen said. The journalist who has written for the Brooklyn Heights Press and has penned singles columns for several publications, started her tradition in the 1960s when a man wrote into her column asking where he could spend Thanksgiving. One of the holiday hostess Easter feasts even got a write up in the New York Times in 1982, when she and her fellow revelers dined on rock cornish hen, quiche, fried chicken, lox, cream cheese, salads, and homemade desserts in between live music and group singing, this paper reported. Bringing people together has been a blessing for her, and when asked why she keeps doing it despite her ailing health, she quoted the author of the Peter Pan books, James M. Barrie. Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves, she said. The do-gooder is looking for help to host this years summer dinner and she is eager to hear from any charitable Brooklyn Heights resident who would be able to offer up their back yard for the event, along with other people willing and able to help her organize the gathering and spread the word through social media. Anyone willing to open their home, donate a venue for the event, or willing to help organize the party can contact Sondra Fagen at (718) 5220506 or at fagen ent@y ahoo.com . Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams A Marine Park man faces 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to threatening the life of a United States Senator. According to prosecutors, 51-year-old Michael Brogan left the threatening voicemail for the federal legislator because of the senators public criticism of President Donald Trump, and their stance on womens reproductive rights. Authorities declined to release information about which senator received the menacing voice message, in an effort to protect their safety. Brogan entered his guilty plea in front of Magistrate Judge Robert M. Levy in the Brooklyn Federal Court building on May 24. According to the investigation, Brogan made the call to the legislators Washington, D.C., office on Dec. 4, 2018. During the message, Brogan launched a profanity laced tirade, in which he warned the lawmaker that he would travel to the nations capital to assault and murder them, prosecutors said I got your [expletive] mark you stupid [expletive]. You and your constant lambasting of President Trump. Oh, reproductive rights, reproductive rights, Brogan said. You watch your [expletive]. If I see you on the streets, Im gonna [expletive] light you up with [expletive] bullets. Brogan was arrested at his home in Brooklyn on Dec. 12, according to prosecutors. The United States Attorney overseeing the case called Brogans actions a subversion of the nations fundamental legal system. Brogan threatened to assault and murder a sitting United States Senator to silence the senator and interfere with the performance of the senators official duties, said U.S. Attorney Richard Donoghue of the Eastern District of New York. The Department of Justice stands ready to vigorously prosecute those who seek to subvert our constitutional system and intimidate elected officials through threats of violence. Brogan faces up to a decade in prison when he is officially sentenced on Sept. 10. German chancellor Angela Merkel have started to think that her successor Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer may not be up to the job, according to two officials with knowledge of her thinking. As a result, the chancellor is more determined than ever to stay in power until her term ends in 2021, Bloomberg reports citing the officials. Kramp-Karrenbauers failure to grasp the baton leaves Germanys governing party flailing as the leadership prepares to meet June 2 and 3 to pore over the losses in the European Union election. Merkel has resolved to spend no more political capital helping AKK, the officials said. But her ability to change the partys direction is limited now that she has handed on control of the machinery. The chancellor is expecting to come under more pressure to step aside as AKKs political problems mount, they added. Kramp-Karrenbauer has seen her popularity slide since taking over as leader of the Christian Democratic Union in December, roiled the party with a failed effort to accelerate Merkels exit, and on Sunday oversaw the CDUs worst ever result in a national election. Kramp-Karrenbauers approval rating slipped three points to 36% in the latest poll by public broadcaster ARD released May 2. Thats the lowest since she became party leader and almost 20 points behind Merkel. 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 The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is waiting for an official complaint by lenders to Jet Airways against the cash-strapped airline and its former promoter Naresh Goyal, before initiating action against them under anti-money laundering laws. There are pieces of information regarding unexplained fund trails and siphoning off of funds, but all that requires a formal complaint for investigation under the provision of Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), said an ED official. 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 Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has left for a working visit to Kazakhstan. He will participate in the work of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council in Nur-Sultan. The meeting participants will sum up the results of the five-year work of the Eurasian Union and outline tasks for expanding cooperation in various areas, Sputnik Armenia reported. In addition, Pashinyan will hold a number of bilateral meetings during his visit. Japanese designer brand Miniso, which has a presence in 86 countries, operates as many as 102 stores in India, a market it claims is among the top-5 contributors to its topline. The company's USP is its low-products that come in the Rs 75-1,500 range. Miyake Junya, co-founder and chief designer of Japanese designer brand Miniso tells Sansan Lotha of its growth in India and future plans. Edited excerpts: What kind of opportunities did you see in India when you first set up shop here in August 2017? And what were the teething troubles? The Indian economy has been one of the ... Every day before 5 am and after 10 pm, 40-year-old K Kasturi and her husband leave their home in Mylapore, Central Chennai, in search of water with eight vessels. If they are lucky, they may be able to fetch water from hand pumps or taps in five vessels after walking 1-1.5 km. This is the only source of water to drink, cook, wash, clean and bathe for them. This is common across Chennai and various parts of Tamil Nadu, where lush agricultural lands have turned parch as groundwater levels deplete to new lows, and wells and water reservoirs go dry. The water levels in Chennais ... President of Austria Alexander Van der Bellen dismissed government ministers headed by Chancellor Sebastian Kurz and ordered them to serve as acting ministers until an interim government of the republic is formed. The president also appointed Minister of Finance and Vice Chancellor of Austria Hartwig Loger as acting Chancellor of Austria, as Kurz had refused to serve as acting Chancellor. The ceremony was held in the Austrian presidents chancellery in Vienna. Sebastian Kurz attended it. The reshuffling in the Austrian government occurred after the National Council (the lower house of parliament) had voted no-confidence to Kurzs cabinet of ministers on May 27 in light of the governmental crisis amid former Vice Chancellor Heinz-Christian Straches vociferous resignation, TASS reported. Acting Chancellor Hartwig Loger, who served as Vice Chancellor and Minister of Finance, will govern the cabinet of ministers for several days, until the president finds a better candidate for the post of acting chancellor. Loger will not be able to occupy this post for long, because Kurzs government received a no-confidence motion in the parliament. As soon as the president chooses a new acting chancellor, the latter will have to suggest the president a new team of ministers for approval that will provide the working capability of the interim government until an early election to the parliament is September. Van der Bellen promised to form an interim government in a week. The latest example came on Monday, when Trump insisted that North Korea had not tested ballistic missiles earlier this month contradicting not only his own national security adviser but also the prime minister of Japan. After some speculation about Kims motivation, Trump doubled down on an earlier tweet. All I know is that there have been no nuclear tests, he said. There have been no ballistic missiles going out, no long-range missiles going ... 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 Over 1 million Uighur Muslims are being held in detention centers in the far western province of Xinjiang, China. Uighur leaders and experts located outside China have warned that the situation could worsen, and mass murder could not be ruled out. With upwards of 10% of the Uighurs being held against their will, it is being called the worst and the most neglected humanitarian crisis of the past 10 years. Why is this is happening, and what makes the Chinese government see Muslims as a threat? Islam in China I have studied the long history of Muslims in ... Two members of an inter-state gang of smugglers were arrested and 90 kg cannabis was recovered from them on Monday, police said. "On credit input, police raided a house in Dumka and arrested two people from there. We have also taken into custody a car, a motorcycle, and a few SIM cards," said YS Ramesh, Superintendent of Police, Dumka. The police have registered a case under different Sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985. Further investigation is currently underway. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky on Monday visited the line of contact on Monday, separating the self-proclaimed eastern Ukrainian republics of Donetsk and Lugansk (DPR and LPR) from the rest of the country, the presidential press service said. The Ukrainian leader visited the front lines of the Ukrainian armed forces in the Lugansk region. "The head of state talked with servicemen about their living conditions, food, asked if they had been provided with sufficient equipment, lodging and social benefits and how well the military units were staffed," TASS cited the statement as saying. According to the document, Zelensky noted that the welfare of enlisted men should be improved and they should be allowed to do their service "in normal conditions." During the visit, the commander of the military operation in Donbass, Alexander Syrsky, delivered a report to the president. In a setback to TMC chief Mamata Banjerjee, about 20 women councillors of her party arrived here on Tuesday saying they wanted to join BJP as they were influenced by the deep inroads made by the saffron party in West Bengal in the recently-concluded Lok Sabha elections. "20 councillors are here in Delhi. We are not upset with Mamata ji (Banerjee) but BJP's massive gains in Bengal has influenced us to join the party. People are liking BJP as they are working for them," Ruby Chatterjee, TMC councillor from Garifa, Ward no 6, told ANI. If the women councillors do join BJP, it would deal another blow for TMC, which lost much ground in West Bengal in the Lok Sabha elections. The state witnessed a saffron surge as BJP inflicted a massive blow to the ruling TMC by winning 18 of the 42 parliamentary constituencies, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in the 2014 general elections. The Banerjee-led TMC although retained the state, it won just 22 seats, as against 34 in 2014. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Hindu representative team from Pakistan, comprising of 93 people, on Monday visited the Jagannath Temple in Puri. The team was also felicitated in Bhubaneswar by Omkarnath Mission, which organised their visit in association with Odisha International Center. "This is our message of peace to the world," said Kinkar Vitthal Ramanuj Maharaj, founder of Omkarnath Mission. Before visiting Jagannath Temple, the team went to Haridwar. "There are people from Islamabad, Karachi, and Balochistan among other places in Pakistan, who have come here to attend this event. The main aim behind coming here was to visit various religious places here. We hope that the governments on both the sides maintain peace so that people from both the sides can travel from one side to another," said Prabhu Sai Atma Ram, a member of the team. Another one added, "We have got one month visa to visit various religious places here. Before this, we went to Haridwar and Rishikesh. From here, we will now visit Mathura and Vrindavan. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) John Bailey, president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and his wife Carol Little visited the Taj Mahal on Monday. Captivated by the beauty of the Taj Mahal, the monument of love, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Bailey told ANI that the experience is even better than a movie. "All Americans have an understanding of the importance, the symbolic and cultural aesthetic and beauty of the Taj Mahal. So, for us to actually see it live is like, better than a movie," Bailey told ANI. The couple was received by the mayor of Agra, Navin Jain. During his interaction with the mayor, Bailey discussed the future collaboration between Indian and American cinema. "Just in the few days that we have been here, Carol and I have begun to get an understanding of the richness, diversity and all the languages that Indian cinema is produced in. We are still just discovery since there are more movies made in India than anywhere else in the world, maybe 3 or 4 times more than we make in America. This is a strong signal to us that we very much want to increase the relationship with India," Bailey said. Bailey has been the academy chief for the past two years. He recently attended the 56th Maharashtra State Film Awards as chief guest and is also expected to visit Delhi during his stay in India. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least 15 Taliban militants were killed in a series of operations conducted by Afghan forces in Southern Helmand province on Monday. According to the Khamma Press, the planned raids were conducted in various districts of the province. The forces have also detained four militants, and a tunnel used by the Taliban has also been destroyed. "In an Afghan special forces operation to disrupt Taliban IED facilitation and illegal narcotic financing in Nahr-e-Saraj district of Helmand, four Taliban fighters were detained and one tunnel was destroyed," said a military source. Moreover, five militants were killed in an airstrike in Musa Qalah district. "In Kajaki district, a strike killed two Taliban fighters," said the source. In another strike in Nahr-e-Saraj district, four more Taliban fighters were killed. However, the militant group has not commented on the operations yet. This comes weeks after sixth rounds of talks between the US and the Taliban ended in Doha. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress on Tuesday asserted that no crisis is going on within the party and all such speculations are just a creation of the media as the party reels under a drubbing in the Lok Sabha elections. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala on Tuesday told ANI, "There is no crisis going on in the party except in the media." President of Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee, Sheila Dikshit has also written a letter to the party president, urging him to not resign from the top post. "During these challenging times, Delhi Pradesh Congress is standing with its party president Rahul Gandhi," the former chief minister said in the letter. Earlier in the day, party heavyweights like Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ashok Gehlot, Sachin Pilot, Randeep Surjewala and KC Venugopal met Gandhi, calling it a "routine meeting". Pramod Tiwari, who also met his party chief, said that he has requested the Nehru-Gandhi scion to drop the idea of stepping down as Congress president. "There is no need for Rahul Gandhi to resign from Congress president post. I have requested him to continue as the party president," Tiwari said. According to sources, the next Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting is likely to be called in the coming week. This huddle of the leaders came after Gandhi, who became the party president in 2017, offered to step down from his post at the CWC meeting on May 25, taking moral responsibility for Congress' dismal performance in the 17th general elections. However, his resignation offer was unanimously rejected by the CWC. So far, several top leaders have met Gandhi and urged him to continue to lead the party. Sources said that despite senior members making serious attempts to convince the 48-year-old party chief to rethink his decision, he remains unfazed. These leaders, sources said, maintained that Congress cannot afford to someone new at the helm for rebuilding the organisation at this juncture and that the responsibility for the defeat is collective and not individual. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha. The Democratic Alliance on May 23 registered a massive victory in the elections, winning 352 seats to retain power. The Bharatiya Janata Party alone won 303 seats- its highest tally ever. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister-designate YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is scheduled to leave for Tirumala this evening to pay obeisance to Lord Balaji in the early hours of Wednesday. At the Renigunta airport, Reddy will be received by Chittoor district Collector, joint collector, Superintendent of Police, MLAs and MPs. Chittoor district collector PS Pradyumna has ordered officials to make adequate arrangements the chief minister-in-waiting. He also ordered a review of the arrangements for Reddy's welcome. Jaganmohan Reddy's swearing-in ceremony will be held on May 30. After the swearing-in ceremony, Reddy and Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao will reportedly fly to Delhi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Reddy's YSRCP decimated Chandrababu Naidu's TDP in the recently-concluded elections. YSRCP achieved a landslide victory by winning 151 seats in the 175-member Assembly and 22 out of the 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh. During his election campaign, Reddy had mentioned that YSRCP would support whosoever promises Special Category Status to Andhra Pradesh. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rayalaseema Saaguneeti Sadhana Samiti (RSSS) on Tuesday launched a 100-km-long padyatra from Nandyal town to demand rightful share of water for backward regions in the state. The padayatra will be concluded on May 31 at Siddeswaram, where construction of weir is pending for a very long time. "The government should immediately construct Siddeswaram weir. Leaders of farmer unions from both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have taken part in the foot march. Construction of Siddeswaram weir will provide irrigation and drinking water for Southern Telangana and six districts of Andhra Pradesh and four districts of Rayalaseema region," RSSS president B Dasaratha Rami Reddy said while speaking to media. RSSS' demands include -- completion of Nagarjuna Sagar tail pond project, Srisailam overhead tank water should be diverted to Rayalaseema region, Amaravati should be made free zone, setting up Andhra Pradesh High Court in the regions, employment for youth, and the state government should hold talks with Karnataka government for the construction of parallel canal to utilise Tungabhadra waters. During the protest, the Samiti alleged that authorities of developed areas are so greedy that they deliberately open the gates of Srisailam reservoir, depriving water to Rayalaseema region. It was also pointed out that several projects were sanctioned by the government on paper, but have not been implemented till date. "Since bifurcation, we have been denied our rightful share of water. This year, adequate water entered the Srisailam reservoir but we did not get irrigation and drinking water. We want justice," a protestor said. Representatives of many NGOs in Rayalaseema region and representatives of various political parties have attended and expressed their solidarity to the RSSS. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The newly elected MP from Begusarai, Giriraj Singh on Tuesday slammed All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi for his response over 'Muslim hawker shot at in Begusarai' tweet saying, "Owaisi has a habit of sowing hatred." Speaking to ANI here, Singh said, "The land of Begusarai is filled with peace. I urge Owaisi to let people of Begusarai continue to live in peace. His statement would have been different if police officers would have present at the incident spot. Owasi has a habit of sowing hatred. This is Modi ji's raj (Kingdom)...Here, only peace will prevail." On Monday, Asaduddin Owaisi responded to a tweet which claimed that a Muslim hawker was shot at in Bihar's Begusarai. "When the hawker responded 'Mohd Qasim', the perpetrator asked him: 'What he was doing here, you should be in Pakistan and fired at him'," read the tweet. Mohammed Asif Khan, the self-avowed socialist, also attached a video with his post, saying: This is Modi's Hindu Rashtra 2.0. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Acting on a credible input, the Assam Rifles arrested cadres and over ground workers (OGW) of Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) (NSCN-IM) from Doyapur village of Dimapur district. The search operation launched by the Assam Rifles along with a state police representative on May 24 led to the arrest of SS Leacy Hehuto, Mr Chingni, OGW (employed in the house of SS Lieutenant Colonel Vikato) and Mrs Kheliho, wife of SS Leacy Samuel, an Assam Rifles statement said. The operation also led to the recovery of arms and ammunitions including five pistols, two 12 bore guns, 600 rounds of assorted ammunition and 34 pairs of combat uniform, the paramilitary force said. The arrested people along with the recovered items were later handed over to West Police Station, Dimapur for further investigation. NSCN (IM) terrorists are suspected to be behind the killing Arunachal Pradesh MLA Tirong Aboh on May 21. Aboh was gunned down along with his son and nine others in an ambush on his convoy of four vehicles in Arunachal Pradesh's Tirap district. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen on Tuesday officially dissolved the Sebastian Kurz-led government, a day after the latter lost a vote of no confidence. This comes after a corruption scandal enveloped a leading party in Kurz's now-dissolved coalition government. The Freedom Party's (FPO) former leader and the former Vice-Chancellor Heinz-Christian Strache was taped while allegedly offering government contracts to a Russian-speaking woman in Ibiza in exchange for favourable media coverage in the run-up to the elections in 2017. While Strache has stepped down as FO's leader, he has outrightly dismissed the allegations against him as a "political attack". Meanwhile, Austria's interim Vice Chancellor Hartwig Loger will be serving as Austria's chancellor until the next leader to replace Kurz is chosen, according to Sputnik. Parliamentary elections are slated to be held in September in the wake of the corruption allegations. Kurz has assured the President that his party is "ready for an orderly transfer of power and the transitional government," pledging "unconditional" support to the interim government. Last week, German news magazine Der Spiegel and the Suddeutsche Zeitung daily newspaper released a video shot in 2017 which showed the former Austrian Vice-Chancellor allegedly offering government contracts in exchange for media coverage to a woman claiming to be a Russian investor, along with being the niece of an oligarch. The publications further reported that the woman offered to buy a 50 per cent stake in Austria's Kronen Zeitung newspaper, ensuring support to Strache's Freedom Party. The video has caused an uproar throughout the European country as elections were only a few months away when the conversation took place around two years ago. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Vietnam always treasures its traditional friendship with Sweden and wants to further strengthen bilateral ties in diverse areas, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc told his Swedish counterpart Stefan Loefven during their talks in Stockholm on May 27. PM Phuc, who is on an official visit to Sweden from May 26-28, also expressed his delight at visiting the European country on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties. At the talks__Photo: VNA He affirmed that the Vietnamese people always remember the precious support by the Swedish people during the anti-American war, as well as in its current national development and global integration. Loefven, for his part, said the visit will create a new driving force for bilateral ties, adding that the Swedish government considers Vietnam an important partner in the region. The two PMs shared view that Vietnam-Sweden ties have thrived in diverse areas at many levels over the past few years, thus tapping each sides strengths. In particular, the visit to Vietnam by Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria on May 6-8 has contributed to cementing friendship and mutual understanding between the two nations. They agreed to facilitate all-level visits and continue effectively implementing bilateral cooperation mechanisms. As bilateral trade-investment ties have yet to match the two nations potential, the Vietnamese PM asked the Swedish government to encourage firms to enhance investment in Vietnam in fields of their strength, such as manufacturing, chemicals, electronics, information and communications, forest plantation, sustainable wood processing, waste treatment, pharmaceuticals, and the support industry for automobiles. They also vowed to increase bilateral partnership in innovation, smart urban development, environment, artificial intelligence, information and communications, and healthcare. Host and guest welcomed the organization of the Vietnam-Sweden Business Forum in Stockholm during the visit, and affirmed the importance of promoting connectivity among businesses following the Vietnam-Sweden Business Summit held in Hanoi during Crown Princess Victorias visit. The Vietnamese PM asked Sweden to support the Vietnam-European Union (EU) comprehensive partnership. The two PMs promised to work closely together to step up the signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and the EU - Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement in the coming weeks to bring benefits to both sides. On the occasion, the Swedish government leader presented a letter of intent on an investment credit worth over USD 2 billion in Vietnam to his guest. The host also spoke highly of the Vietnamese communitys contributions to prosperity and cultural diversity in Sweden as well as the promotion of bilateral trade and investment. The two sides pledged to boost liaisons at regional and global forums such as the United Nations, the Asia-Europe Meeting, the ASEAN-EU cooperation, as well as join common efforts to cope with global issues, climate change, and ensure sustainable development. They reached a consensus on the importance of the settlement of disputes by peaceful means, ensuring navigation and aviation freedom in line with international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Loefven also accepted Phucs invitation to visit Vietnam with great pleasure.- (VNA/VLLF) , , , Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Tuesday accused his successor Bhupesh Baghel of distorting history, saying the latter has "less knowledge" about social reformer Veer Savarkar. "Bhupesh Baghel is misleading the people. He has less knowledge about Veer Savarkar. He is trying to distort historical facts. Veer Savarkar devoted his entire life in the freedom struggle and fought for the independence of our country," Singh told ANI. He said that Savarkar was one of the freedom fighters who was sentenced to life imprisonment and played a key role in promoting unity and harmony. "One should visit Cellular Jail (in Port Blair) to see what sacrifices he gave for our country. We remember him even today due to his tireless efforts in ensuring that our country is freed from the British," Singh said. On Monday, Baghel had claimed that Savarkar was the first one to propose the two-nation theory that led to the formation of India and Pakistan, while Muhammad Ali Jinnah implemented it. "Savarkar had put forward the proposal of dividing the country into two parts on religious grounds and Jinnah had implemented it. This is a historical fact and no one can deny it," Baghel had told reporters. Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to Savarkar on his 136th birth anniversary. "We bow to Veer Savarkar on his Jayanti. Veer Savarkar epitomises courage, patriotism and unflinching commitment to a strong India. He inspired many people to devote themselves towards the nation building," he tweeted. In addition to Modi, BJP leaders including LK Advani and Sumitra Mahajan paid floral tributes to Savarkar at the Parliament earlier in the day. Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, popularly known as Veer Savarkar, was an Indian independence activist, politician, lawyer, and writer. He is known for coining the term 'Hindutva' and formulating the philosophy. . (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Following the unfortunate death of 16 people due to consumption of spurious liquor, Uttar Pradesh police have arrested three people while the state government has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh each for the deceased. The police have arrested three people including the salesman of the country-made liquor shop from where the affected people had purchased liquor. Search for the owner is still on. Police are also conducting raids at several places to seize the stock of liquor brands which were allegedly consumed by the victims. The state government has also formed a three-member committee headed by Uttar Pradesh Excise Commissioner to probe the incident. The committee has been asked to submit its report to the government within 48 hours. On the orders of the administration, District Excise Officer, Excise Inspector, Ramnagar Circle Officer, and Station House Officer have been suspended with immediate effect. Among the deceased are also four members of the same family. Most of the affected individuals hail from Raniganj village in the Ramnagar region of Barabanki district. The matter came to light after Lekhpal Sadar Badel claimed that he got information about eight people having died in Ramnagar after consuming illicit liquor. The people in Raniganj and adjoining villages were rushed to Ramnagar Community Health Centre (CHC) from where most of them were referred to Lucknow's Trauma Centre. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least 14 people, including five members of the same family, died after consuming spurious liquor in Barabanki district of the state on Monday. Based on the complaints filed by relatives of the deceased, an FIR has been filed at Ramnagar police station. Speaking about the action taken after the incident, ADG Rajeev Krishna said, "It is a very sad incident. The number of deaths is not important. The investigation is underway. Excise Department has also suspended the excise inspector of the area." Many other people affected by the consumption of liquor are admitted in Lucknow's trauma centre, he said. Krishna, who visited the hospital, told ANI, "Total 25 people have been hospitalised so far in the trauma centre. Five of the admitted people are critical whereas others are out of danger." He also said arrests have been made in this regard and the concerned shop has been sealed. "We have sealed the shop from where the liquor was sourced. The material has been seized. We have arrested the salesman and the owner of the shop is absconding. One inspector has been suspended and departmental action has been ordered against the Circle Officer. We will take strict action against all involved", added Krishna. Taking cognisance of the matter, Uttar Pradesh Excise Minister Jai Pratap Singh suspended one district administration official, 5 police personnel and 3 head constable with immediate effect. Assistant District Magistrate Sandeep Gupta told ANI, "As per the information received, the people were given spurious liquor and some of them lost their sight right after they consumed it. Many are admitted to the hospital." The matter came to limelight after Lekhpal Sadar Badel claimed that he got information about eight people having died in Ramnagar after consuming illicit liquor. Badel said, "I have got information that eight people have died in Ramnagar. Today, 3 people were admitted at the hospital out of which one person has passed away." The people in Raniganj and adjoining villages were rushed to Ramnagar Community Health Centre (CHC) from where most of them were referred to Lucknow's Trauma Centre. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Kerala DGP Loknath Behera on Tuesday asserted that the police is taking all precautionary measures in the wake of an apparent ISIS threat, adding that people of the state have "nothing to worry." "See I am not going into details. Some say about this usage being an exaggeration etc. That's not my job. I see this as a big precautionary measure. 580 kilometres of Kerala coast is fully covered. We have even ensured that any deviations /deceptive moves are also accounted for," Behara told media here. "Once all Quick Response Teams, District officials, coastal police officials have been alerted, even the smallest of instances are being reported. This is also an opportunity to assess our preparatory measures. Kerala's coast is fully covered. It's always better to be alert rather than complacent. We're ready, people should not feel they are not safe," he added. Kerala Coastal Police have been placed on alert after intelligence inputs about ISIS affiliates setting off towards Lakshadweep and Minicoy Island from Sri Lanka, police sources had said on May 26. According to highly-placed sources aware of the matter, as many as 15 ISIS affiliates have set-off in a white boat from Sri Lanka towards Indian islands of Lakshadweep and Minicoy. The Indian Coast Guard has deployed its ships and maritime surveillance aircraft around the two islands and maritime borders with Sri Lanka in order to thwart any attempt by the ISIS to enter Indian waters. On April 21, bombings took place at various locations across Sri Lanka in which at least 250 people lost their lives while over 500 were injured in the terror attack. Local terror group NTJ ( Thowheeth Jama'ath), which is an ISIS-affiliate, claimed responsibility for the attack. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tarapur MLA Mewalal Choudhary and his wife and former MLA Neeta Choudhary suffered injuries in a gas cylinder explosion at their residence in district Munger's Tarapur on Monday night. The injured were taken to a hospital in Bhagalpur from where they have been referred to the other hospital in Patna. Further details are awaited. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least 55 people were found dead after violent clashes broke out among rival drug factions in several prisons in northern Brazilian state of Amazonas, correction officials said on Monday. The clashes began on Sunday during visiting hours at the Anisio Jobin prison in Manaus city. Of the 15 inmates who died, some were reported to have been asphyxiated, while others were stabbed with sharpened toothbrushes, reports The New York Times. The outbreak of violence at the Anisio prison expanded on Monday to at least three other prisons in the state, leading to 40 more deaths. Colonel Marcos Vinicius Almeida, head of jails in Amazonas, told reporters here that the violence was sparked by "infighting among inmates." No prison guard has been harmed or taken hostage. Following the clashes, Brazil's Justice Ministry has dispatched a task force to the state to assist the local officials in controlling the situation. Speaking on the same, state governor Wilson Lima said in a statement that he hoped that the task force would "help us in this time of crisis to confront a problem that is a national one: the problem in our prisons. While Brazil's national prisons are equipped to hold only about 4 lakh people, the data collected by Brazilian Senate Staff states that the prison population has ballooned from roughly 4,51,000 in 2008 to an estimated 8,41,000 last year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Gujarat MLA and OBC leader Alpesh Thakor on Tuesday said Congress leaders who reiterate that scams have taken place are suffering from a "chemical locha" (chemical imbalance) in their minds. Thakor had left the Congress last month ahead of Lok Sabha polls stating that his Kshatriya Thakor Sena was facing insults in the party. Thakor stated that the Congress party has no people and is only full of 'chela chapatas' (those who indulge in flattery). "Congress failed to understand what people actually want. They only repeatedly shouted 'ghotala hua, ghotala hua' (scam happened, scam happened). There was no scam, the scam was in their minds, the 'chemical locha' was in their minds," said Alpesh Thakor while talking to ANI. Earlier, today while talking to ANI on phone, Thakor said that he will not join the BJP though he is in contact with several of their party leaders as an MLA. He said that the Congress was bound to be defeated in Lok Sabha polls as the party has no presence at the ground and only emphasizes on organizing press conferences. "Congress had no booth agents at more than 500 booths. They have lost connection with the ground level and its leaders only do pressers sitting in the party office. They should rather reach out to people in villages and try to solve their problems," said Thakor. "Congress has become a party without any public support, without any booth management. It has become a party of only leaders," he lashed out. "The way Congress is working is the reason why they failed to understand what people want. Congress did not find a way to sort out public issues. Congress does not have strong people they have only 'chela chapatas'," he said. Thakor claimed that he had cautioned the Congress against negative campaigning over Narendra Modi and RSS. "I asked Congress not speak against Narendra Modi or RSS but they did not understand this. Modi is the face of non-corruption while RSS is the face for nationalism," he asserted. He said that 15 -17 Congress MLAs are unhappy with the party. "We want to work for our people and the poor with the help of the government... wait and watch, more than 15 MLAs are leaving Congress, everyone is distressed. More than half of the MLAs are upset," Thakor claimed. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ajay Singh, a Congress legislator from Jewargi constituency and son of former state chief minister Dharam Singh, has expressed keenness on becoming a part of the Karnataka cabinet. When asked if he wants to become a minister in the Karnataka government, Ajay said, "Definitely I am also an aspirant. I leave it to the party seniors to decide whom they are going to accommodate. I think it (allotment of new ministerial birth) is going to be a good combination of both trouble-makers and loyal MLAs. The first priority is that we need to continue this Congress-JD(S) government." Singh affirmed that the party will always remain his first priority. "All of us will sit together and decide on future strategy", he added. The Jewargi MLA also asserted that there are no questions about mid-term elections and said, "We have just finished an election. Everyone is going to sit for CLP and they will give their opinions in that meeting." Talking about the criticism channelled towards the Congress-JD(S) alliance by several JD(S) MLAs, Singh said, "There is a coordination committee and it is for them to decide what needs to be done and how we will go about it." In view of the tumultuous political developments in Karnataka, Congress' state unit has called for a Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting on May 29 in Bengaluru. On Monday, Congress leader KN Rajanna had claimed that the coalition government will collapse after June 10. In the recently held polls, BJP won 25 of the 28 seats along with an Independent backed by it, with just one seat each going to Congress and JD(S). BJP is the single largest party with 105 members in the 225 member assembly while the ruling coalition has 117 members with 79 legislators from Congress, 37 from JD(S) and 1 from BSP. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Tuesday set aside a single bench order which had upheld the Centre's February 7 direction to a Pakistani woman to leave India within two weeks. The 37-year-old woman is married to an Indian man and has been living in India since 2005. The couple has two sons aged five and eleven. A division bench headed by Chief Justice Rajendra Menon was hearing a petition filed by the husband of the woman challenging the order of the single bench, which had on February 28 upheld the notice issued by the government. The bench, also comprising Justice Jairam Anoop Bambhani, while setting aside the order, pulled up at the central government for not following the due procedure while issuing a notice to the woman. On February 28, while upholding the notice issued by the government, Justice Vibhu Bakru had said, "You have not done anything to naturalise your citizenship for India. You have not established any right to stay in India." During the proceedings, the woman had submitted that she has a valid visa till 2020 to stay in India. The Ministry of Home Affairs, however, denied the claim and contended that she did not apply for Indian citizenship. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi police on Tuesday arrested three persons and apprehended a juvenile for robbing two persons last night. Police said the accused used a stolen car to rob the victims who were going to New Delhi railway station late night on Monday. According to the police, the car was stolen from Mandir Marg area in 2010. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) WarbirdsNews has just received the May, 2019 report from Chuck Cravens concerning the restoration of the Dakota Territory Air Museums P-47D Thunderbolt 42-27609 at AirCorps Aviation in Bemidji, Minnesota. We thought our readers would be very interested to see how the project has progressed since our last article on this important project. So without further ado, here it goes! Update This month work progressed on the fuselage, cockpit interior and cockpit enclosure, the same general areas as last month. Equipment installation on a complex, rare fighter like this one takes a lot of time! In this update we will also look into the connections between women pilots and the P-47. Fuselage Most of the fuselage work this month centered upon equipment installation. Inside the Cockpit Cockpit Enclosure The WASP and WAF Connection One of the lesser known and definitely under-appreciated contributions to the war effort came from women pilots. 1,102 women served in either, or both, the Womens Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS) and the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP). The WAFS were hired as civilian ferry pilots, and were organized and commanded by Nancy Harkness Love and the USAAF Ferry Command. Nancy was originally restricted to hiring 25 women, but she eventually hired 27. The women hired for the Ferry Command were all experienced, well-trained pilots, and were required to have at least 500 hours of flying time. In the beginning, the WAFS were only authorized to ferry light trainers and utility aircraft. That policy was soon to change, however, and in time the WAFS/WASP flew every aircraft type in the USAAF inventory. During the same time period, a second group of women pilots was also established. The Womens Flying Training Detachment or WFTD was organized and commanded by Jackie Cochran. The WFTD pilots were trained to fly by going through exactly the same pilot training as male Air Force cadets. At its onset, the program was based at the Municipal Airport in Houston, Texas. Once the instruction program was in full swing, it became clear that Houston was too congested, and flight training time was too limited by morning fog and frequent thunderstorms, for efficient training to take place. Therefore, the training program was moved to Avenger Field in Sweetwater, Texas in February 1943. By August, the WAF and WFTD were combined into a single organization, the Women Airforce Service Pilots or WASP. At the time of combining the two groups, Jackie Cochran was named overall Director of Women Pilots, and Nancy Harkness Love, the Director of the Women Pilots in Air Transport Command. While the WASP and WAF contributions were varied and numerous, including providing flight training, target towing, flight testing and other missions; the focus here will be on their role in ferrying fighters. The need for ferrying fighters was greater than transports and bombers because, for the most part, they were shipped by sea to combat areas. Bombers and transports were ferried by women pilots as well, but many of these types made the journey by air to the European or other theaters instead of being shipped. The logistics of getting planes to combat areas presented a real challenge. In the east, Republic Aviation had factories building P-47s in Farmingdale, New York and Evansville, Indiana. Curtiss was building P-40s in Buffalo, New York, and Bell was pushing P-39s and, later P-63s out the doors of their factory in Niagara Falls, New York. Further west, North American Aviation had fighter factories in Inglewood, California and near Dallas, Texas. A portion of the fighters from each of these widely dispersed factories, was destined for Europe and needed shipping from the port in Newark, New Jersey. Others needed to get to Long Beach or Alameda, California for loading onto aircraft carriers for the journey to the Southwest Pacific or the China, Burma, India Theater. Other fighters went west to Great Falls, Montana, under the Lend-Lease program, to be picked up and flown to Russia, via Alaska. The location of these factories in relationship to their ports of embarkation required thousands of fighters to be ferried over great distances in the USA. This need was the original impetus for forming the WAFS. Nancy Love set up four ferrying squadrons, the 5th Ferrying Group, at Love Field in Dallas, Texas, the 2nd Ferrying Group at New Castle Army Air Base in Wilmington, Delaware, the 3rd in Romulus, Michigan and the 6th in Long Beach, California [Ref. Sarah Byrn Rickman, WASP of the Ferry Command, (Denton, TX, University of North Texas Press, 2016)]. It was common for WAFS, and later the WASP, to fly a Mustang from Dallas or Inglewood, California to Newark, New Jersey for shipment to Europe, and then for the woman pilots to take ground transportation to one of the Curtiss, Republic or Bell factories in the region to pick up another fighter and fly it west to Long Beach or Great Falls. Many Farmingdale-built P-47s went to Evansvilles modification center to receive new equipment installations suited for the Southwest Pacific or the CBI. These aircraft, as well as Evansville-built Thunderbolts, were then flown by ferry pilots (both male and female) to Long Beach and on to Alameda Naval Air Station for loading onto carriers. Barbara Erickson became the first WASP to receive the Air Medal for Meritorious Achievement as a pilot. Erickson received her medal for completing four 2,000 mile deliveries of three different types of aircraft in slightly more than 5 days of actual flying. She was also the second woman to check out in the P-51/A-36. The WASP flew 9,224,000 miles ferrying planes around the continental US and Canada. Thirty Eight WASP died flying missions or training flights. The WASP were never militarized as an official auxiliary force. As a result, the 38 women who were killed while serving in WASP were not entitled to government-paid burial expenses or survivor benefits. The cost of shipping home the bodies of the dead was often covered by their fellow WASP collecting funds amongst themselves! Their contributions and sacrifice should never be forgotten. For more information on the WASP, there are a number of fine books, like Sarah Byrn Rickmans WASP of the Ferry Command. Also check the National WASP WWII Museum website, or better yet, visit them at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, Texas! Texas Womans University also holds a treasure trove of information in their Women Air Force Service Pilots Digital Archive And thats all for this month. We wish to thank AirCorps Aviation, Chuck Cravens (words and images) as well as John LaTourelle (images) for making this report possible! We look forwards to bringing more restoration reports on progress with this rare machine in the coming months. Is the P-47 Thunderbolt your favorite airplane? Make sure to purchase issue #73 of Warbird Digest featuring the beautiful Dottie Mae Amidst the row over the suicide of the 22-year-old Dr Payal Tadvi, a protest was held outside the BYL Nair Hospital in Mumbai on Thursday by the victim's mother Abida Tadvi along with her family members, locals and various social organisations. Salman, late Dr Payal's family member, alleged that the young doctor had been facing casteist slurs from the day she joined the hospital and the situation had turned so bad earlier that they had even requested the administration to intervene. "She was selected in the Gynaecology department of Nair Hospital in May 2018. Ever since her joining she had to undergo ragging and was also ridiculed for coming from a lower caste. When we came to know about this we complained to the hospital administration of the abuse being meted out by three girls. The administration sided with us at first by sending her to an allied posting and also told us that they would change her unit," Salman told reporters here. He said that the situation remained unchanged after her return from the posting and accused the administration of not doing enough in the case. "After she came back from the allied posting, they didn't change her unit and the torture on her increased since the three girls got to know of our complaint. They didn't change her department. We tried to submit a letter to the Dean in May, but we were stopped from meeting him so we met the Gynaecology department head instead. She, however, did not support us and stood by the three girls. We wanted to include the Gynaecology department head's name in the letter, that is why we took it back," Salman said. Demanding justice and prompt action in the case, he said the three accused - Dr Hema Ahuja, Dr Bhakti Mehar and Dr Ankita Khandilwal - are "still roaming free" owing to the influential backgrounds they come from. "We want justice for Payal, the three girls are still absconding only because they are rich and influential. They are still allowed to roam free even after five days have passed. We don't know the role of police in this but something needs to be done," he stated. The three accused and the head of the Gynaecology department, Dr Yi Ching Ling, have been suspended by the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) and the hospital administration. The hospital had formed an internal investigation committee to look into the allegations by Abida Tadvi that Payal was being harassed by three female seniors for her caste and had also been subjected to ragging. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Amidst the ongoing internal investigation in the case of suicide by a post-graduate student, Dr Payal Salman Tadvi on May 22, the BYL Nair Hospital on Tuesday suspended the head of its Gynaecology department, Dr Yi Ching Ling until further notice. Ling along with the other three doctors suspended by Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) will not be allowed to take part in any activity in the hospital. The hospital had formed an internal investigation committee to look into allegations by the victim's mother, Abeda Tadvi, that Payal was being harassed by three female seniors for her caste and had also been subjected to ragging. Three doctors - Hema Ahuja, Bhakti Mehar, and Ankita Khandilwal - all accused of abetting Dr Tadvi to commit suicide by persistently harassing her on the pretext of her social identity - urged the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) to ensure 'fair' probe into the whole issue on Monday. In a letter to the MARD on Monday, the trio has also denied the charges of 'ragging' levelled against them by the victim's mother. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Haryana Police has arrested all five accused who were involved in thrashing of a woman in Faridabad district, police said on Tuesday. Those arrested include two police officials and three Special Police Officers. Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Navdeep Singh Virk said, "Police will file a charge sheet in record time and make all efforts for a fast track trial in court so the accused are convicted early." "Necessary directions regarding this have been issued to CP Faridabad, who has also been requested to personally monitor the investigation and subsequent trial of the case," he added. Virk further stated, "Police had already suspended two head constables and terminated the services of three Special Police Officers after a video of the woman being beaten up by police officials appeared in media. Strongest possible action was taken in minutes of the incident coming to notice. Haryana Police is committed towards the safety and security of women in the State." Earlier today, Ballabhgarh ACP Jaiveer Rathi had said, "The investigation is underway and strict action will be taken against the accused. Head constables Baldev and Rohit have been suspended. Three SPOs namely Krishan, Harpal, and Dinesh have been dismissed. We do not know about the details of the victim. Further action will be taken against the accused when the investigation is over." Haryana State Commission for Women has called for strict action against the police personnel accused in the case. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Liverpool FC's manager Jurgen Klopp on Tuesday said that the Brazilian striker Robert Firmino is likely to be fit for the Champions League finals against Tottenham Hotspurs. "Bobby was part of training last week, then we took him out and will be in training from tomorrow again. From what we saw so far he looked good. He will be fine, I'm sure," Klopp said in an official statement released by Liverpool FC. Firmino picked up a muscle injury on April 21 and since then he has not been involved in the team's matches heading into the Champions League finals. Liverpool has been sweating on the fitness of two of their senior players ahead of the finals. While Firmino's fitness comes as a piece of good news for Liverpool, Klopp confirmed that Naby Keita will not be able to play the finals against Tottenham Hotspurs. He said that the Guinean midfielder has "no chance" of recovering from a thigh problem. "There is no chance for Naby. He is really progressing well, we will see how it will work out for him for the Africa Cup of Nations. We don't know that yet," Klopp said. Liverpool reached their second consecutive Champions League finals after defeating Barcelona in the second-leg semi-final. Liverpool finished at the second position in the Premier League standings with 97 points. Manchester City won the Premier League title by just one point. The team takes on Tottenham Hotspurs in the finals of the Champions League on June 1 in Madrid. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Karnataka Minister and Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Tuesday expressed dismay over Congress' performance in the Lok Sabha elections and also asserted that the Gandhi family has protected the party in times of crisis. "I never expected such a big loss for the Congress party. Let's all sit together and work out (a solution). I have just arrived in Bengaluru and I have to meet my party leaders and committee. Congress can't be wiped out. Gandhi family has been protecting the party in all crises," he told media. Earlier, on his arrival in Bengaluru on Monday, Shivakumar on being asked about poll results said he follows Mahatma Gandhi's theory. "I just know who won and who lost. I don't have further details. Usually, I get messages, I don't know anything further. I'm just following Gandhi ji's theory "Don't hear bad, don't speak bad and don't see bad," the Congressman told reporters. In view of the tumultuous political developments in Karnataka, Congress party's state unit has called for a Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting on May 29 in Bengaluru. The BJP is the single largest party with 105 members in the 225 member Karnataka Assembly, while the ruling coalition has 117 members with 79 legislators from Congress, 37 from JD(S) and 1 from BSP. In the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP won 25 of the 28 seats along with an Independent backed by it, leaving one seat each to Congress and JD(S). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Giriraj Singh on Tuesday backed Yoga guru Baba Ramdev over his population control statement saying, "these laws are necessary for the development of the country." Speaking to ANI here, Singh said, "Baba Ramdev's statement on population control should be seen in a positive light. Population control laws are necessary for the development of the country. You look at China, they had implemented one-child policy in the past and today you can see how much developed they are. Experts have also said that in the near future there will be a crisis of food and water. Laws should be made in this regard in India". On Sunday, the yoga guru, who also runs a chain of consumer goods store- Patanjali, had stated that "the third child should not be allowed to contest polls or enjoy government privileges." "India's population should not be more than 150 crores in the next 50 years as we are not prepared or ready to bear more than that. This is only possible when the government makes a law that third child would not be allowed to vote, neither contest election nor he/she enjoys any type of privileges and facilities given by the government," Ramdev had said while speaking to ANI. Giriraj Singh in his concluding statement also stated that before rolling out any law pertaining to population control all the political quarters must conduct a debate on the same. " From a road to the Parliament, all the political parties must take part in the debate on the issue of population control before making it a law. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to pass an order directing Uttar Pradesh police to file a supplementary charge sheet in the Hapur lynching case. A vacation bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, however, asked the petitioner to file an application before the trial court hearing the matter to bring to its notice the statements of the victim's brothers recorded under Section 164 CrPC. The top court asked the victim's lawyer, Vrinda Grover, to approach the trial court and inform it about the statements of Saleem and Nadeem. The trial court will take a decision in accordance with the law, the apex court said. On May 15, the statement of the two brothers was recorded by the police, Grover told the top court. The apex court said that the trial court would decide over filing of a supplementary charge sheet after conducting further probe into the case. The plea was filed by a survivor of the incident, Samaydeen, who demanded the setting up of an SIT (Special Investigating Team) for an "impartial" investigation. On May 2, the Uttar Pradesh Police had filed a status report on the investigation carried out in the matter on Samaydeen's petition. In June last year, Qasim, a cattle trader, was lynched to death and 65-year-old Samaydeen was severely injured in Uttar Pradesh's Hapur district after a group of people allegedly attacked them on suspicion of being involved in cow slaughter. Mehtab, son of Qasim, had also approached the top court seeking direction for an SIT probe under an officer from another state. The apex court had tagged the plea of Qasim's son along with Samaydeen's petition. In September last year, the top court had said that the investigation in the matter would be conducted under the supervision of Meerut's Inspector General of Police (IG). The apex court had also said that the IG Meerut will adhere and follow the court's judgment while conducting the investigation in the case. The pleas had claimed that Samaydeen and Qasim were targetted and mercilessly assaulted by a mob of the majority community in the name of cow vigilantism. Both the pleas had sought setting up of an SIT comprising police officers with "impeccable career records of integrity and competence from outside the state of Uttar Pradesh". The petitions also further sought a direction to the Uttar Pradesh government to compensate the victim for his medical treatment. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has requested Medical Council of India (MCI) to consider extending the last date for PG medical admissions in states from May 18 to May 31 to fill up the remaining vacant seats in the academic session 2019-20. As per the time schedule notified by the MCI, the last date for filling up Post Graduate Medical seats by the states is May 18. "The Ministry is in receipt of representations from Institutions / State Governments for extending the last date for filling up of vacant PG medical seats beyond May 18 and upto May 31," read a statement issued by the Health Ministry. "The Health Ministry has thus requested the Board of Governors (BoG), MCI to examine the matter and make suitable recommendations," the release added. The BoG is meeting today to consider the matter. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Gujarat MLA and OBC leader Alpesh Thakor who resigned from the Congress party last month said that he will not join BJP though he is in contact with several of the BJP leaders. While talking to ANI on phone, he said: "I meet several BJP leaders as I am an MLA and I have to work for my constituency but I have no plans to join BJP." Last month, along with Alpesh Thakor, MLA Dhavalsinh Thakor and MLA Bharatji Thakor also resigned from the Congress. Their resignation came a day ahead of the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections. Alpesh, who came to limelight due to his quota agitation some years back, joined the Congress in 2017 ahead of the last Gujarat polls and was elected from Radhanpur. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Kargil war veteran Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa on Tuesday paid homage to Indian Air Force (IAF) jawans who lost their lives when a Mi-17 helicopter was shot down by Pakistan during the 1999 battle. IAF Chief Dhanoa paid tribute by flying a 'Missing Man' formation at Sarsawa base in Uttar Pradesh. 14 Corps Commander Lieutenant General YK Joshi and Western Air Commander Air Marshal R Nambiar were also a part of the team. The 'Missing Man' formation is an aerial salute accorded to honour the fallen comrades-in-arms. Earlier on Monday, a squadron of MiG-21 aircraft led by the IAF chief flew in the missing man formation to pay tribute to Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja who was killed in action in Operation Safed Sadar during the Kargil war. Kargil war, also known as the Kargil conflict, was an armed conflict between India and Pakistan that took place between May and July 1999 in the Kargil district of Kashmir and elsewhere along the Line of Control (LoC). The IAF had played a key role in enabling the Indian Army to recapture the majority of the positions on the Indian side of the LoC infiltrated by the Pakistani troops and terrorists. The war came to an end on July 26 with a decisive victory for India as it regained Kargil and Pakistan being criticised globally for instigating the war and for making its paramilitary forces cross the LoC. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The second phase of the Indo-French naval exercise, christened as Varuna 19.2, brought together a French nuclear attack warship, currently deployed in the Indian Ocean, and an Indian submarine. "Organised under the operational control of the French Joint Forces Commander in the Indian Ocean (ALINDIEN), this exercise was an opportunity to reinforce our capabilities for joint action in a critical and strategic field while demonstrating the high level of interoperability achieved," according to a statement issued by the French Embassy. Training was held for more than 35 hours of submarine combat. The high-level exercises allowed both crews to be trained in detection, tracking and plunge attack while maintaining control over maritime areas and their environment. As part of Varuna 19.1, which included the participation of the French Navy's aircraft carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle, the French submarine had already conducted an exercise with an Indian submarine for a period of seven hours. "Varuna 19.2 aims to deepen this first interaction in a new environment," the statement added. India and France have been strategic partners for more than twenty years. The bilateral partnership is the subject of recurrent dialogues and regular bilateral military exercises. "With nearly 650 soldiers deployed, the French Forces in the United Arab Emirates (FFEAU), is one of France's advanced operational bases abroad. As such, it supports the French military assets deployed in the Persian Gulf and the north of the Indian Ocean," the statement said. Due to its conditions, it also allows training French soldiers in combat actions in the desert as well as urban areas. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A court here on Monday announced death sentence for a fourth French citizen in a row for joining the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS). Al Jazeera confirmed after quoting Iraqi court officials that the man, identified as Mustafa Mohammed Ibrahim, 37, had been sentenced to death by hanging, a day after three other Frenchmen were given death sentences for being ISIL members. In a statement, the French foreign ministry said following the judgment that it respected the sovereignty of the Iraqi authorities and that ISIL members "had to answer for their crimes". "The French embassy in Iraq, in its role as a provider of consular protection, is taking the necessary steps to convey its position to the Iraq authorities," the statement added. Meanwhile, human rights groups have repeatedly criticised the trials, which they say often rely on circumstantial evidence or confessions obtained under torture. In addition, the French foreign ministry has also reportedly reiterated its opposition to the death penalty, saying it would take "the necessary steps" to prevent Iraq from carrying out capital punishment against its citizens. "France is opposed in principle to the death penalty at all times and in all places," the ministry said in a statement cited by the state media. Paris has so far categorically refused to take back ISIL fighters and their wives, although a handful of children have been repatriated. On Sunday, the Bagdad court had three French citizens, named Kevin Gonot, Leonard Lopez and Salim Machou, sentenced to death. The four convicted men were handed over to the Iraqi authorities in February by the United States-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), part of a group of 280 Iraqi and foreign detainees that also included the French citizens. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Suspected terrorists shot dead a 39-year-old man in Babagund area of Handwara in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district on Monday evening. This comes days after one of the most wanted terrorists, Zakir Musa was killed in an encounter with security forces in Tral in Pulwama. Musa was the commander of al Qaeda linked Ansar Ghazwat-ul Hind. More details are currently awaited. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least 16 people, including eight primary school children, suffered injuries in a suspected stabbing attack in the Japanese city of Kawasaki on early Tuesday, state media said. According to Japan's national broadcaster NHK, authorities confirmed that two children and an adult were without vital signs after the incident took place near Noborito train station. A male suspect, likely in his 40s to 50s, reportedly began slashing at people waiting at the station and was badly hurt after stabbing himself in the shoulder. He was detained on the spot by the police later. Al Jazeera's Wayne Hay, reporting from Tokyo, said that the attack took place at a time when the station was very busy with commuters. Footage broadcast on local television channels showed that emergency medical tents were put up to treat the wounded. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Eleven police personnel were injured in an Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) blast triggered in the wee hours of Tuesday morning here in Kuchai area of Saraikella. All the injured have been airlifted for Ranchi in the morning at 6.52 am. The incident occurred when the troops of 209 CoBRA battalion of CRPF and Jharkhand police were out on special joint operations. Among the injured, 8 personnel are of CoBRA while 3 of Jharkhand Police. Further, details are awaited. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) American actor Kate Mara, who announced her pregnancy this year in January, welcomed her first child and guess what, it's a baby girl! The actor and Jamie Bell welcomed their first child together earlier this month, reports E-News. Giving a glimpse about their newborn, the actor posted a picture showing the tiny feet of the baby on Instagram. "We had a baby a couple of weeks ago... Here are her feet." Jack Bell, who Jamie shares with his ex-wife Evan Rachel Wood, was the first person to meet the little bundle of joy. A few weeks ago, the famous couple hosted a festive baby shower at their Los Angeles home. The 36-year-old's sister Rooney Mara and her beau, Joaquin Phoenix, attended the pink-themed soiree, which was decorated with beautiful arrangements of wildflowers and roses. Multiple outlets reported that the lucky guests showered the first-time mom with presents wrapped in pink paper. While the mom-to-be grabbed eyeballs at the shower, all of her attention was devoted to Jamie's son, Jack. A source told Us Weekly, "[She] spent a lot of time playing with Jamie's son in the yard." For the baby shower, Kate wore a white ruffled dress that completely matched the relaxing vibe of the party. Jamie complimented her look in a denim dress shirt and black pants. It seems like it was just yesterday that the actor confirmed her pregnancy. "Went on a date with our bun in the oven," the actor lovingly captioned a photo of her and her husband. There is no doubt that their baby will be surrounded by love in the Mara-Bell home. Jamie, who wed Kate in July 2017, previously told E! News, "It feels like we've been married for years. In the best way. We're having a great time. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Urging people not to indulge in speculation, Congress on Tuesday said the Congress Working Committee (CWC) has rejected Rahul Gandhi's resignation from the party president's post and that "is the only realty". "I don't think we should speculate. CWC has already explained that Rahul is not resigning... And it should rest there and we should not speculate. Let's not indulge in any speculation," said Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera. When a media person said that Rahul had rejected the resolution, Khera dismissed it saying, "Maybe you know better than me." Rahul had offered to step down from the party post at the CWC meeting held last Saturday, taking moral responsibility for Congress' dismal performance in the Lok Sabha elections. However, Rahul's offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC. Sources said that despite senior leaders making serious attempts to convince him to rethink his decision, Rahul is unfazed. Earlier in the day Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot arrived at Rahul's residence. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala and party general secretary in-charge KC Venugopal were also present at his residence. Along with Congress leaders, UPA ally DMK too batted for the continuance of Rahul as the party president.Earlier in the day, DMK chief MK Stalin telephoned Rahul and urged him to continue in the post. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A fire broke out in a private school in Thane West on Tuesday. However, no one was injured in the blaze in the computer room of Shree Mavli Mandal High School, a fire brigade official said. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot and the blaze brought under control, the official said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday reshuffled the state cabinet just days after her party's drubbing in the recently held polls. According to the new portfolio, Suvendu Adhikary is now the Irrigation and Transport minister. Somen Mahapatra has been given charge of Public Health, Engineering and Environment ministry, while Rajib Banerjee has been appointed as the Tribal development minister. This comes on a day the TMC chief suffered a major setback after two MLAs, including BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu, and 63 councillors from West Bengal joined the BJP. In the recently concluded elections, TMC bagged 22 out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats at stake in the state, while BJP improved its tally and secured 18 seats, 16 more than it had bagged in the 2014 polls. The Congress managed to win just two seats, while the Left parties drew a blank. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who had a bitter spat with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Lok Sabha elections, has been invited to attend his swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, which she has accepted. "I have spoken to other Chief Ministers also. Since it is a ceremonial program, we thought of attending it. Yes, I will go," she told media here on Tuesday. The two leaders had indulged in a war of words during the campaign period in the run-up to the elections, in which the BJP has made deep inroads into the Trinamool territory in West Bengal by winning 18 Lok Sabha seats out of 42. The TMC's victory was reduced from 34 in 2014 to 22 in 2019. Modi will be sworn in for a second term as the prime minister on Thursday at 7 pm in Rashtrapati Bhavan, along with members of the Union Council of Ministers. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 27, 2019 | 06:05 AM | MCCRACKEN COUNTY An early morning traffic stop in McCracken County led to drug charges for a Graves County woman. The McCracken County Sheriff's Office said deputies conducted a traffic stop Monday morning near John Puryear Drive for moving violations. According to deputies, the driver, 24-year-old Hannah Shelton of Symsonia, was driving with no insurance or registration. A search of the vehicle reportedly found methamphetamine, marijuana and other drug related items. Shelton was arrested and transported to the McCracken County Regional Jail. She's charged with speeding, no registration plates, failure of owner to maintain require insurance, possession of marijuana, possession of meth and possession of drug paraphernalia. It has been over a month since people from 70 villages in the Marathwada region, which is marred by severe drought for the past ten years, have been protesting against the government for not releasing water from the Jayakwadi dam to the Godavari River. With the mercury shooting up in the state, the river, which is the lifeline of the people in the region, has dried up completely. On Tuesday, the protesters threatened to intensify their agitation and commit mass suicide if water is not released into the Godavari within a stipulated time of two days. Jayajirao Suryavanshi, Chairman of regional farmers association, told ANI, "People are distressed due to the water crisis. We have been fighting this situation for a long time." Alleging that the region has been facing a drought-like situation since 1972, Suryavanshi said that the government is not paying heed to their demands. "Water is being released from the dam for people in the cities but not for the villagers. If the authorities do not release water for us in the next two days, we will intensify our agitation. We will have to commit mass suicide." Ashok, a local, said, "We have been protesting for so long. Now, we have lost hope in the government. All that we can do is pray to the Almighty that better sense prevails in these politicians and they look into our issues and help us." Jayakwadi dam, one of the largest dams that supplies water to three districts in the area, is also facing acute water shortage, as the water level has touched an all-time low. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Microsoft has listed a new gaming mouse on its website, which appears to be a refashioned Pro IntelliMouse from two years ago. Listed on the official website at a price of USD 59.99, the Microsoft Pro IntelliMouse is USB 2.0 compatible and features customisable buttons, sleeker design language, and enhanced tracking, responsiveness, and speed. Gamers can also customise the tail light colour. The mouse is available in Shadow Black and Shadow White colour choices. It first debuted in China last year and now making its way to the US and other markets. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) One of the three doctors accused of harassing Dr Payal Salman Tadvi was held by the Mumbai police on Tuesday. Dr. Bhakti Mehar was arrested for allegedly abetting the post-graduate medical student, who belonged to the Scheduled Tribe community, to end her life on May 22, Mumbai police PRO Manjunath Singhe confirmed. The other two doctors, Hema Ahuja and Ankita Khandilwal of BLY Nair Hospital in Mumbai, who are accused of persistently harassing Dr Tadvi over her social identity are yet to be nabbed. Meanwhile, the Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo moto cognisance of the matter and written to the hospital administration, requesting to appraise with the action taken in the case. "The NCW is deeply disturbed...It is a matter of serious concern," NCW chairperson Rekha Sharma wrote in the letter addressed to hospital director Dr. Avinas Supe. On Monday, the Maharashtra State Commission for Women had issued a notice to Dean of the BYL Nair Hospital seeking a report on the action taken in the case. Earlier in the day, a Congress delegation led by Milind Deora met with Mumbai Joint Police Commissioner Vinay Chaubey (law and order) and urged him to take strict action against those responsible. Deora requested the commissioner to ensure justice to the victim's family through a fast track court and arrest the accused at the earliest. The hospital administration formed an anti-ragging committee to probe the suicide. The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) has suspended the three doctors. The accused doctors, on Monday, wrote to the association urging to ensure 'fair' probe into the issue. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will attend the swearing-in ceremony of his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, scheduled to be held on May 30 in New Delhi, Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release on Tuesday. "At the invitation of Prime Minister of India H. E. Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Mr. K P Sharma Oli is paying an official visit to India to attend the former's swearing-in ceremony to be held on May 30, 2019 in New Delhi. The Rt. Hon. Prime Minister will leave Kathmandu for New Delhi on May 30, 2019," the statement read. Oli will be accompanied by his wife and other high-ranking government officials. The two leaders will be holding bilateral talks on May 31. Like SAARC leaders last time, heads of government from neighbouring BIMSTEC countries have been invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Modi for his second term. The decision to invite the leaders from the grouping is in line with the government's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, according to the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. Apart from BIMSTEC leaders, invitations have also been extended to Kyrgyzstan's President Sooronbay Jeenbekov, the current Chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and the Prime Minister of Mauritius Pravind Jugnauth, who was the Chief Guest at this year's Pravasi Bhartiya Divas. In 2014, when Modi won his first term, all the SAARC leaders, including the then Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attended the swearing-in. Member countries of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) include Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand besides India. (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.) Citing the close and good relationship with India, Netherlands has expressed optimism in continuing ties with the new government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "We have very good and close cooperation with the Modi government. We can increase investment and trade relations with India. We are looking to intensify cooperation with new Indian govt and under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Dutch Ambassador Marten van den Berg told ANI. Speaking on the sidelines of Global Entrepreneurship Summit in New Delhi, Berg said, "Relations between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Mark Rutte are very good. There are always high expectations and we will definitively continue this good cooperation." Talking about the points of collaboration between the two countries, the ambassador added, "As an ambassador, I'm very much looking forward to connecting systems of innovation from the Netherlands to India. Work closely with sustainable development goals." Netherlands and USA are co-hosting the 2019 edition of Global Entrepreneurship Summit at Hague which starts from June 3. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Newly-elected Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan faced backlash on social media over their choice of clothes for their first day in Parliament. The two young women had posted separate pictures in front of the Parliament on their first day after being elected as MPs in the recently held polls. However, the way the two actresses were dressed did not go down well with netizens, who felt that their choice of clothes to attend a session in Parliament, which is considered as a 'temple of democracy', was inappropriate. Ever since their candidature had been announced by the TMC, both Bengali actresses were subjected to trolling and hatred on social media for having no political experience or credentials to contest polls. Mimi, a Member of Parliament (MP) from Jadavpur, posted a photo of her wearing a white shirt, jeans and a pair of sneakers. "And its us again. 1st day at Parliament" she wrote alongside the picture. Meanwhile, Nusrat, a TMC lawmaker from Basirhat, shared a photo on Twitter of the two women displaying their identity cards and said, "A new beginning..!! I thank @MamataOfficial and people of my #Basirhat constituency to have belief in me." Without wasting time, a Twitter user replied on Mimi's tweet saying, "Do u both think parliament is your rampwalk stage???" "I think people are voted both of you for solving their problems, not for photoshoot in front of parliament. You just think what happened if the heros of our freedom fighters are seen this....!" another Twitter user said. "The parliament house is not a place for photoshoot. Concentrate on your work," a user tweeted. The TMC had fielded 17 women candidates in 42 seats in West Bengal. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The United States on Tuesday expressed pleasure with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's return to power, highlighting the strong relationship shared by the two countries. The Minister Counselor for Public Affairs, David Kennedy, told ANI, "The USA has wonderful relations with India and will continue to have excellent relations with India. We are very pleased to see a strong government come back. We wish the prime minister all the best as he is moving forward to form his government." Backing the mandate given by the people of India to Modi, the US official said: "India is a democracy and never criticises the decision made by the people. People have chosen a very strong government and it is going to do its best for the people and serve the mandate." The American official also pointed out US President Donald Trump's statement, wherein he expressed a strong desire for strengthening US-India relations. "It is an opportunity for us to continue what already is an excellent relation. We will look forward to the new govt and starting work," Kennedy added. Highlighting the area of focus for Indo-US relations in the future, Kennedy said, "Our economic partnership has become strong and grown tremendously and we can see that to grow for the benefit of both our countries. Our broader security relationship is very strong and it will continue to grow. We share common interests and values as two large democracies. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot on Tuesday arrived at the residence of party president Rahul Gandhi who has offered to step down from the party's top post. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala and party general secretary in-charge KC Venugopal were also present at Gandhi's residence. This meeting came after Gandhi had offered to step down from his party post at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting, held on Saturday, taking moral responsibility for Congress' dismal performance in the Lok Sabha elections. However, Gandhi's resignation offer was unanimously rejected by the CWC. Sources said that despite senior leaders making serious attempts to convince him to rethink on his decision, Gandhi is said to be unfazed. On Monday, party treasurer Ahmed Patel and Venugopal met with Gandhi at his residence here and urged him to continue to lead the party. Party leaders, sources said, maintained that Congress cannot afford to have a new leader at the helm for rebuilding the organisation at this juncture and that the responsibility for the defeat is collective and not individual. A CWC member said that an honest postmortem is the need of the hour. However, Congress had termed the developments as speculation and rumour. "The Congress party expects everyone including the media to respect the sanctity of a closed-door meeting of the CWC. Various conjectures, speculations, insinuations, assumptions, gossip and rumour mongering in a section of the media is uncalled for and unwarranted," Surjewala tweeted earlier. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The plea, mentioned before a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, stated that Chief Minister V Narayanasamy issued orders even after the top court on May 10 admitted appeals of the Centre and Bedi against the Madras High Court. Bedi demanded that status quo prior to Madras High Court's order that curtailed her powers ought to have been maintained after the Supreme Court issued notice on the same. However, this was not complied with, she contended. "Pursuant to the order dated May 10, 2019, propriety demanded that status quo ante as it existed prior to the impugned judgment dated April 30 having been passed, be maintained. However it was not to be," the plea stated. On April 30, the High court had asked Bedi not to interfere in the day-to-day administration of the Union Territory, especially when an elected government is in place. The apex court had on May 10 issued a notice to Congress MLA K Laksminarayanan, on whose plea the High Court had passed a judgement on April 30, and others on the Centre and LG's appeals. The top court had refused to stay the High Court's order. Acting on the petition filed by Lakshminarayanan, the Madras High Court ruled that the LG doesn't have rights to interfere in the daily affairs of the elected government and pressed that incessant interference from her would amount to "running a parallel government". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Veteran actor Rajinikanth on Monday confirmed that he will be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to be held on May 30. Hailing the overwhelming Lok Sabha mandate as a victory of Modi as a leader, the actor said, "This victory is a victory for the person Modi. He is a charismatic leader." Adding Prime Minister Modi's name in the league of "charismatic leaders the country has seen", Rajinikanth said, "After Nehru, Rajeev Gandhi, the country has now got Modi. Likewise, after Anna, Kalaignar and Jayalalithaa, this is a victory of Modi." Giving counsel to Rahul Gandhi on his insistence to step down from the post of the Congress president, Rajini said, "He should not resign and should prove that he can do it too. In a democracy, the Opposition should also be robust." Dwelling on the poor performance of the Congress in the recently concluded elections, Rajinikanth said, "As a youngster, it is difficult for him (Gandhi) to handle senior leaders. Moreover, they (Congress) did not work hard." Praising the NDA government for the Godavari-Kaveri linking project, he said, "Minister Nitin Gadkari brought this project and should be appreciated. It is a very good move." He also hoped that the Central government "will bring good projects to the state" and take the issues concerning the state seriously. PM Modi will take oath for a second consecutive term as Prime Minister on May 30 at 7 pm in the Rashtrapati Bhavan, along with members of the Union Council of Ministers. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Anil Ambani-owned Reliance Capital said on Tuesday its offer for sale (OFS) last week to sell shareholding in Reliance Nippon Life Asset Management (RNAM) has got good response from investors. Now the company has exercised the green-shoe option and will sell over 8 per cent of its shareholding in RNAM through this OFS totalling nearly Rs 1,100 crore. Reliance Capital had announced an OFS of its shareholding in RNAM in order to comply with the mandatory requirement of achieving minimum public shareholding of 25 per cent by reducing the promoter stake. The entire RNAM stake monetisation proceeds of about Rs 6,000 crore (860 million dollars) to be received from the OFS and the already announced transaction with Nippon Life Insurance Company of Japan will be utilised to reduce Reliance Capital's outstanding debt. "Based on the above and other asset monetisation deals presently underway, Reliance Capital expects to reduce its debt by at least Rs 12,000 crore (1.7 billion dollars) or 70 per cent in the current financial year," it said in a statement. JM Financial and CLSA acted as selling brokers for the offer for sale. Reliance Capital, a part of the Reliance Group, is one of India's leading private sector financial services companies with interests in asset management and mutual funds; life, health and general insurance; commercial and home finance; stock broking; wealth management services; distribution of financial products; asset reconstruction; proprietary investments and other activities in financial services. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) "Removal of Article 370 is the solution to all problems of Kashmir," said actor Anupam Kher. During a brief media interaction in Kanpur on Monday, Kher was asked if he thinks BJP will work for the Kashmiri Pandits now that it is in power, to which he asserted that all the issues in Kashmir can be resolved if Article 370 is removed. Kher, a Kashmiri Pandit himself, has regularly voiced his opinions and concerns when it comes to the prevailing issues that affect the valley. The BJP, in its manifesto for 2019 Lok Sabha polls, reiterated its demand for abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A of the Constitution which are provisions specific to Jammu and Kashmir. Article 370 grants special autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir, while Article 35A, incorporated into the Constitution in 1954, provides special rights and privileges to the citizens of the state. When asked to comment on BJP's mandate in the recent Lok Sabha elections, Kher said, "The whole country is in favor of the Modi government. It is not a small majority, it is a huge mandate. The opposition should now quietly let this government work." Kher had campaigned extensively for his wife and BJP leader Kirron Kher, who won the Chandigarh Lok Sabha seat for a second term. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a notice to the Rajasthan government and jail superintendent of Jaipur Central Jail on a petition seeking bail for a person lodged in jail in connection with allegedly possessing counterfeit currency notes. A vacation bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi and also comprising Justice Aniruddha Bose, issued the notice, seeking a detailed response from the parties (Rajasthan and Central Jail in Rajasthan) within two weeks. The lawyer for the petitioner submitted to the apex court that his client is in the last stage of oral cancer and thereby he should be given bail. According to the prosecution, the accused, A. Jaif, is lodged in Central Jail in Rajasthan and is on the verge of his death as he is suffering from the last stage of oral cancer. "My lord have mercy on my client. Please grant him bail," the lawyer told the court. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Giving fresh air to speculations, rebel RJD legislator Maheshwar Prasad Yadav and Congress MLA Shakeel Ahmed Khan attended the iftar party organised by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar at his residence in Patna on Tuesday. Yadav represents Gaighat Assembly constituency in Muzaffarpur, while Khan is an MLA from Kadwa Assembly segment in Katihar district in Bihar. Congress and RJD put up a poor showing in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections. While Congress managed to bag just one parliamentary seat, the Lalu Prasad-led party drew a blank. Soon after the announcement of election results, Maheshwar put the onus of the poll debacle on the "dynastic politics" being practiced in the RJD. He asked his party leader Tejaswi Yadav, who is looking after the party affairs after RJD chief was sent to jail, to step down from the post of the leader of Opposition in Bihar Assembly. "Tejashwi Yadav should resign from the post of Leader of Opposition as people are fed up of dynasty The party must give the post to some senior leader. If dynasty does not come to an end, the party will break up and a large fragment will go away," he had told ANI. Congress MLA Khan, however, sought to downplay the political implications of his participation. "I participated in in the feast on the invitation of Nitish ji. His invitation reflects the Ganga-Jamuni culture," he told media here. Unlike these elections, RJD had won four Lok Sabha seats despite the Modi wave in 2014. BJP-led Democratic Alliance swept Bihar, bagging 39 of the 40 seats. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) DMK president MK Stalin will attend Andhra Pradesh chief minister-designate Jaganmohan Reddy's swearing-in ceremony scheduled to be held in Vijayawada on May 30, party sources said. Jagan's swearing-in ceremony is expected to take place at Vijayawada's Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium at 12.23 pm on Thursday. Earlier, the YSRCP leader rang up his predecessor and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu and invited him over to the event. Jaganmohan-led YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) got an absolute majority in the 175-member Andhra Pradesh Assembly, ousting Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP) from power. YSRCP won 151 seats, whereas TDP's tally fell drastically from 102 in 2014 Assembly elections to a mere 23. In the Lok Sabha results too YSRCP managed to win 22 of the 25 parliamentary seats. Reddy has already invited Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao to his swearing-in. KCR has agreed to attend the ceremony at Vijaywada before leaving for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's oath-taking to be held on the same day in New Delhi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A delegation of Taliban officials is set to attend a two-day meeting with Afghan politicians in Moscow this week, officials confirmed on Monday, as fighting continues to rage in Afghanistan amid troubled peace talks between the United States and the militants. In a statement, the Taliban said that the group is to attend a conference marking 100 years of diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and Russia on May 28, followed by discussions with Afghan politicians about the future of the country on May 29. The 14-member Taliban delegation is led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, in what will be his first international trip since being freed from a Pakistani prison last October. Meanwhile, among the Afghan politicians, former President Hamid Karzai and chairman of the High Peace Council (HPC) Mohammad Karim Khalili are expected to participate in Tuesday's meeting that focuses on ending the 18-year long war in Afghanistan. A spokesman for the Afghan president's office told Al Jazeera that the Afghan ambassador in Moscow would also attend Tuesday's ceremony but it was unclear whether he would meet the Taliban delegation. The Taliban, which has been in peace negotiations with Washington since last year, has repeatedly refused to meet President Ashraf Ghani's government, calling it a "puppet" of the West. An "intra-Afghan dialogue" that was to be held in Doha in April was cancelled after the Taliban objected to a new delegation of Afghan officials selected to attend the talks. After six rounds of talks between the US and the Taliban in Doha ended earlier this month, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, said that "faster progress" was needed as "the conflict rages" and "innocent people die". The Taliban and the Afghan government have said that they have agreed a "draft framework" on an agreement for the US troop withdrawal and a guarantee that the Taliban would not harbour "terrorist" groups or allow them to use Afghanistan as a staging ground for global attacks. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a major setback to the Trinamool Congress (TMC), two MLAs, including BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu, and over 50 councillors from West Bengal joined the BJP here on Tuesday. An MLA from CPM also joined the party today. Senior party leaders, including West Bengal party in-charge Kailash Vijayvargiya and Mukul Roy, were present at the party headquarters for the occasion. "Like the elections were held in seven phases in West Bengal, joinings in BJP will also happen in seven phases. Today was just the first phase," Vijayvargiya asserted. Before the announcement, he had said that "such joinings will continue in future as well". Earlier in the day Mukul Roy, once a confidant of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, said that the people of West Bengal have made their minds to support the BJP. Roy's son Subhrangshu, the MLA from Bijpur constituency, was suspended from the TMC for six years for anti-party activities. The development comes days after BJP broke into the TMC citadel winning 18 seats, 16 seats more than it bagged in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. TMC bagged 22 out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Congress managed to win just two seats, while the Left parties drew a blank. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Despite the extravagant display of camaraderie aimed at showing the strength of what Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called the "unshakable bond" with the United States President Donald Trump, points of differences between the two leaders were visible, particularly on two fronts - North Korea, and trade. Trump began his much-anticipated four-day visit to Japan against the backdrop of his recent tweet that played down the threat of the recent firing of short-range missiles by North Korea. The tweet holds significance particularly because it went against the recent statements by the Japanese government and Trump's national security adviser John Bolton that the missile test violated the UN resolutions. In a joint press conference conducted by Trump and Abe following their bilateral talks on Monday, the US President reiterated his statement that he was not bothered about the missile test. "My people think it could have been a violation," Trump told reporters, as cited by The New York Times while adding that he was not "personally" concerned about the launches. "Perhaps he wants to get attention, and perhaps not," he said of the North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un. "Who knows? All I know is there have been no nuclear tests, no long-range missiles going out. I think that someday we will have a deal." When the question of the missile test was put to Abe, the Japanese Prime Minister repeated the earlier statements where he had deemed them as "regrettable", while adding that he and Trump were in complete agreement over the issue of North Korea. In his statements, Abe was careful to not criticise Trump's approach towards the communist country. Speaking on Trump's attempt at friendship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, Abe said, "He cracked open the shell of distrust," while adding, "This was a new approach, which I welcome." Shortly before the press conference, the US President had met the families of citizens who were abducted by North Korea decades ago. During the meeting, Trump told the families that he would be working with Abe to bring their relatives home. "I can also tell you for certain that it is the Prime Minister's primary goal," Trump said, adding that Abe has discussed the topic at every meeting they have had. Speaking on that front in the press conference, Abe said that he was "completely on the same page" as Trump on the issue. The Japanese PM added that he plans to have a discussion with North Korean leader Kim-Jong-un in "complete candour" about the issue in the future. It is pertinent to mention that a 2014 report by the United Nation states that hundreds of South Koreans, Japanese, and other foreign nationals were kidnapped by North Korea at the end of the Korean War in 1953. It should be recalled here that last week Washington had issued an executive order that called imports of foreign cars and auto parts a threat to the U.S. national security. The decision implied that Washington would wait up to six months before determining whether to impose a 25 per cent tariff on imported cars and parts from the European Union and Japan. Speaking on the same, Abe told reporters that he was pursuing a bilateral deal that would be a "win-win" for both the US and Japan. One of the most significant takeaways from yesterday's press conference was the decisive statement by Trump that the US was not seeking "regime change" in Iran. "We're not looking for regime change. I want to make that clear," Trump had said. "We're looking for no nuclear weapons." After Iran lashing out at Washington's decision to sell weapons to Saudi Arabia and deploy 1,500 additional troops in the Middle East, Abe offered his help as a mediator between the two nations. Speaking on the same, Trump said that he was open to accepting the help offered by Abe. "I know for a fact the prime minister is very close with the leadership of Iran, and we'll see what happens," Trump said. "Nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me." The US President concluded his four-day trip today. One of the highlights of his visit was when he met the country's new emperor, Naruhito, hours before the press conference. Accompanied by his wife Melania Trump, the US President arrived at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Monday morning, where they were greeted by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako. In an elaborate welcome ceremony that ensued, Trump reviewed a cordon of Japanese troops and greeted yellow-hatted schoolchildren waving American and Japanese flags. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With the change of guard in the state, uncertainty looms large over the construction of the capital of Amaravati after YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy announced a probe into possible land scam in the capital region. Former chief minister Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP government had acquired 33,000 acres of land from farmers under land pooling system for the construction of the new capital. Under the system, the farmers were assured that those who gave up their lands would be given flats. With the change in the ruling party, whether that will materialise is what many have been wondering. While TDP said that people will teach a lesson to YSRCP if it won't oblige, the latter responded that they will act in a transparent manner. As per 'the 91 (4) agreement' between farmers and the State government, the latter has to hand back plots with physical infrastructure to all farmers who gave lands. However, this process has not been completed yet. "It is the duty of the present government and Jaganmohan Reddy to continue the construction of the capital of Amaravati. Farmers have voluntarily given 33000 acres of land. So it is the duty of the present government to honour the commitment given to the farmers. We have heard a few statements of Jagan in the past few days of scams in land acquisition in the capital region. We are ready to face any kind of enquiry. We are not afraid of it. It was all done in a very transparent manner," TDP spokesperson K Pattabhi told ANI. However, YSRCP, that won 151 of the 175 Assembly seats and 22 of the 25 Lok Sabha seats in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections in the state has assured that they will probe all possible irregularities during the acquisition process without doing "injustice" to the farmers. "With regard to the development of the capital, nobody needs to worry or be afraid. We will develop the capital transparently, without harming anybody, without any greed or selfish motives. We will transfer the plots agreed by the earlier government. We will not do any injustice to the farmers. And we will not acquire land unwantedly. We will not do any business with farmers' lands. We are giving that much assurance. We will not do injustice to anybody," YSRCP spokesperson and former minister K Parthasarathi said. He also said that any benefit arrived out of the development of the capital should be passed on to the farmers. "The government or industrialists or business people should not take advantage of profits arrived by developing the capital." When asked whether earlier agreements will be examined, Parthasarathi said, "Of course, we will definitely probe if there are any irregularities. We will probe into all misdeeds, illegal contracts, nomination contracts, overestimated contracts. We are answerable to the people of Andhra Pradesh. We will rule the government transparently, but not by creating hype. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Poll violence in West Bengal has not ceased to exist even after the conclusion of Lok Sabha elections as a victory procession of the BJP in Birbhum was disrupted, allegedly by TMC workers. TMC supporters on Monday allegedly hurled a bomb at a 'Vijay Rally' of the BJP. The rally was scheduled to go from Murudeshwar Assembly constituency till Lokpur College here. When BJP's rally reached the TMC party office in the area, supporters of the latter allegedly threw a bomb at the procession. Locals said that police personnel of Mayureswar Police Station were present at the incident spot. The police said that no injuries were reported and an enquiry into the matter has been ordered. Birbhum Superintendent of Police, Shyam Singh said, "The investigation in the incident is underway. No one has been arrested till now." During general elections, the BJP and the TMC were involved in violent clashes during all the seven phases. Both the parties frequently traded blame over the issue. In the Lok Sabha elections, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led TMC won 22 seats as against 34 in 2014, while the BJP has made deep inroads in the state bagging 18, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in 2014. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Engineering Firm Appointed for Updated Authier DFS Brisbane, May 28, 2019 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Emerging lithium miner Sayona Mining Limited ( ASX:SYA ) ( OTCMKTS:DMNXF ) announced today the appointment of experienced engineering consultancy BBA to review the Authier Lithium Project's mining plan and DFS, based on a sustainable approach that delivers genuine benefits to all stakeholders.Highlights- Engineering consultancy BBA appointed to review mining plan and definitive feasibility study (DFS) as part of environmental impact assessment for Sayona's Authier Lithium Project, Quebec, Canada- Study to optimise mining based on proposed output of 2,600 tonnes per day, as per sustainable development plan- New leadership at Sayona Quebec driving enhanced stakeholder engagement, with goal of maximising benefits for the community of Quebec.Under the study, BBA will update the mining plan to ensure it is optimised for the planned sustainable development approach of 2,600 tonnes per day production, providing for an approximate mine life of 14 years and estimated annual average spodumene concentrate production of around 115,000 tonnes (at 6% Li2O) (refer ASX announcement 28 March 2019).The DFS (refer ASX release 24 September 2018) will also be reviewed as per the proposed mining rate, since the previous study was based on daily maximum output of 1,900 tonnes. The previous DFS showed the potential for a sustainable and profitable project that could generate 150 jobs in the construction phase and 160 jobs in operation, with the investment of nearly C$90 million into the province.The amended study will form part of the Company's environmental impact statement required under Article 31.1 of Quebec's Environment Quality Act. The overall regulatory process is expected to take approximately 13 to 18 months, including the completion of an EIS, public consultation and review, ultimately leading to a ministerial recommendation and government decision (refer ASX announcement 27 May 2019).Sayona's Managing Director, Dan O'Neill, said BBA's appointment would ensure continuity concerning the Authier project, drawing upon the consultancy's established expertise."BBA offers an established team of experienced professionals, with thorough knowledge of the mining sector in addition to having a regional presence in Val-d'Or," Mr O'Neill said."Having been entrusted with the original feasibility study, BBA has both the project knowledge and experience to ensure a satisfactory outcome that expedites the process for the benefit of all."Sayona continues to engage closely with all stakeholders, including information sessions and consultations with local municipalities, landowners, First Nations communities, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders, with the engagement effort led by its local team in Quebec.Amid U.S. plans to speed the development of EV supply chain minerals such as lithium, continued growth in lithium demand and recent corporate transactions in the sector, Sayona is focused on advancing its flagship Authier project together with its emerging Tansim project in Quebec.About BBABBA has provided a wide range of consulting engineering services for almost 40 years. Its engineering, environmental and commissioning experts team up to quickly and accurately pinpoint the needs of industrial and institutional clients. Recognised for its innovative, sustainable and reliable solutions, the firm stands out for its expertise in the fields of energy and mining and metals, as well as biofuels, oil and gas. BBA has 12 offices across Canada to provide local support and offer clients an increased on-site presence. For more information, refer http://www.bba.ca About Sayona Mining Ltd Sayona Mining Limited (ASX:SYA) (OTCMKTS:SYAXF) is an Australian, ASX-listed (SYA) company focused on sourcing and developing the raw materials required to construct lithium-ion batteries for use in the rapidly growing new and green technology sectors. The Company has lithium projects in Quebec, Canada and in Western Australia. Please visit us as at www.sayonamining.com.au Buoyed by the party's resounding victory in the Lok Sabha elections, former chief minister and Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa on Tuesday said that if the Congress-JDS coalition decides to dissolve the state Assembly, he will welcome their decision. "We have won 25 out of 28 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka. This is a historic win. I will welcome the decision if they (the ruling alliance) dissolve the government and go for mid-term polls," he told reporters here. Resentment among the leaders of coalition came to the fore after the Congress-JD(S) coalition failed miserably in the Lok Sabha elections, managing to get only two parliamentary seats in the state. On Monday, senior Congress leader K N Rajanna had said, "This government will not remain in power as it will collapse after June 10. I have been told that he must have lost his post even before but as per my sources, BJP people in the state stopped till the Prime Minister takes the oath." Speaking further, state BJP chief said, "No BJP MLA is in touch with Congress or JDS. We are all together. I don't want to speculate on forming the government. Things will happen on its own." On May 14, Yeddyurappa had said, "Not a single person from BJP will join any other party. After May 23, more than 20 Congress MLAs who are not happy with HD Kumaraswamy will not continue in the party." Earlier, two Congress MLAs Ramesh Jarkiholi and Sudhakar met BJP leader R Ashok at veteran leader SM Krishna's residence in Bengaluru on Sunday. However, the MLAs clarified that they visited Krishna's residence to greet him for the success of BJP in the recently-held polls, adding that there was "nothing political" about the meeting. Yeddyurappa also accused Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy-led government of curtailing freedom of expression after Bengaluru police have filed an FIR against Vishweshwar Bhat, the editor of Kannada daily Vishwavani, for allegedly publishing derogatory remarks against Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil. "We oppose the FIR against Vishweshwar Bhat. JDS is trying to curtail freedom of expression. We are in full support of Vishwavani," BJP leader said. The FIR was registered on a complaint filed by General Secretary of the Legal Cell of Janata Dal (Secular) Pradeep Kumar S.P. here on Sunday. The complainant stated that the news item on an alleged heated conversation between Nikhil, who recently lost Mandya Lok Sabha constituency, and his grandfather--JD(S) party supremo H.D. Deve Gowda, was meant to tarnish Nikhil's political career and to extract money. Yeddyurappa also said that he is going to Delhi for the oath-taking ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In Karnataka, BJP is the single largest party with 105 members in the 225 member assembly, while the ruling coalition has 117 members with 79 legislators from Congress, 37 from JD(S)and 1 from BSP. The JDS-Congress coalition which is in power in the state went through a rough patch during the campaigning of the recently held elections with leaders of both the parties accusing each other. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bharat Forge Ltd is quoting at Rs 497.05, up 3.05% on the day as on 12:54 IST on the NSE. The stock is down 24.59% in last one year as compared to a 11.79% jump in NIFTY and a 23.55% jump in the Nifty Auto index. Bharat Forge Ltd is up for a third straight session today. The stock is quoting at Rs 497.05, up 3.05% on the day as on 12:54 IST on the NSE. The benchmark NIFTY is down around 0.32% on the day, quoting at 11886.45. The Sensex is at 39592.11, down 0.23%. Bharat Forge Ltd has gained around 5.25% in last one month. Meanwhile, Nifty Auto index of which Bharat Forge Ltd is a constituent, has gained around 1.17% in last one month and is currently quoting at 8462.2, down 0.16% on the day. The volume in the stock stood at 20.14 lakh shares today, compared to the daily average of 13.48 lakh shares in last one month. The benchmark May futures contract for the stock is quoting at Rs 497.45, up 3.02% on the day. Bharat Forge Ltd is down 24.59% in last one year as compared to a 11.79% jump in NIFTY and a 23.55% jump in the Nifty Auto index. The PE of the stock is 20.94 based on TTM earnings ending March 19. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd is quoting at Rs 404.05, up 0.51% on the day as on 12:49 IST on the NSE. The stock is down 0.32% in last one year as compared to a 11.84% gain in NIFTY and a 22.51% gain in the Nifty Energy. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd rose for a fifth straight session today. The stock is quoting at Rs 404.05, up 0.51% on the day as on 12:49 IST on the NSE. The benchmark NIFTY is down around 0.27% on the day, quoting at 11892.65. The Sensex is at 39560.75, down 0.31%. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd has added around 6.37% in last one month. Meanwhile, Nifty Energy index of which Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd is a constituent, has added around 0.16% in last one month and is currently quoting at 16382.65, up 0.56% on the day. The volume in the stock stood at 34.2 lakh shares today, compared to the daily average of 66.16 lakh shares in last one month. The benchmark May futures contract for the stock is quoting at Rs 404.65, up 0.55% on the day. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd is down 0.32% in last one year as compared to a 11.84% gain in NIFTY and a 22.51% gain in the Nifty Energy index. The PE of the stock is 12.22 based on TTM earnings ending March 19. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At meeting held on 27 May 2019 The Board of Info Edge (India) at its meeting held on 27 May 2019 has approved the acquisition of 100% share capital on fully diluted basis of Highorbit Careers for an aggregate cash consideration of about Rs 80.82 crore. Highorbit Careers is engaged in the business of providing on line classifieds, database, digital platform and recruitment solutions in the recruitment and employability vertical to small medium and large enterprises and the job seekers across different verticals particularly Management and Technology verticals. The proposed acquisition would help the Company to further consolidate its position in the online recruitment solutions segment where its flagship brand Naukri.com already has an established leadership position. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) December 29, 2021, Wednesday Raymond rose 1.03% to Rs 625 after the company said it has incorporated new unit 'Ten X Realty' for its real estate business. Headline indices of the Mainland China equity market closed higher for second straight session on Tuesday, 28 May 2019, as a top regulatory official downplayed the impact of the trade war with the United States. Meanwhile, risk sentiments boosted by inflows of overseas capital before the first step of MSCI's inclusion of Chinese A-shares took effect. At closing bell, the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index was up 0.61%, or 17.53 points, to 2,909.91. The Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, added 0.53%, or 8.13 points, to 1,541.65. The blue-chip CSI300 index rose 0.96%, or 35.06 points, to 3,672.26. The trade war with the United States has had limited impact on China's financial markets and its effects will be "even smaller" in the future, Guo Shuqing, chairman of the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, said on Monday. If Sino-US trade tensions deteriorate further, there is a possibility of marginal easing in China's fiscal and monetary policies, as Beijing could take counter-cyclical measures to fully hedge the negative impact and stabilise market expectations, China Galaxy Securities said in report. Besides, Beijing is further opening up its financial markets despite the trade war, which market participants expect could bring in more long-term foreign money to prop up its stock market. The trade war between the US and China, the world's two largest economies, has stretched to the technology sector, after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order barring the use of telecommunications equipment made by companies deemed a threat to America's national security. Huawei Technologies, the world's largest maker of 5G telecoms equipment, has been banned. Last week, Wu Qing, a vice mayor of Shanghai, said the city would grant financial and tax incentives to buoy domestic players in the fields of AI, biotechnology and semiconductors because western companies led in these core technologies. Overseas investors poured into A-shares, with the net capital inflow via the Stock Connect linking Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland once hitting 11 billion yuan during the day and reaching nearly 7.5 billion yuan at the close. The first phase of MSCI's increase of Chinese A-shares weighting into its global indexes officially went into effect after the bell on Tuesday. Shares of agricultural companies closed stronger, with stocks of five A-share companies including Gansu Dunhuang Seed Co and Fujian Aonong Biological Technology Group Inc surging by the daily limit of 10%. Stocks related to venture capital were also among the biggest gainers. Suzhou New District Hi-Tech Industrial Co and Shanghai DaZhong Public Utilities Group Co both hit the 10% daily cap. Media industry registered robust performance as well. Shaanxi Broadcast & TV Network Intermediary (Group) Co., Ltd. gained 1.86% to 10.41 yuan a share. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC) to promote disaster risk management in the private sector on May 17, 2019 in Geneva. As per the MoU, FICCI and ADPC will cooperate on a range of issues, including promotion of Disaster Risk Management (DRM) in the private sector along with development and sharing of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) technical expertise through mutually identified means and modalities. The agreement outlines the framework of cooperation between the two bodies to promote DRM by corporate sector to contribute to own and societal resilience with the prime objective of developing disaster risk management related capacities. It also aims to encourage corporations and commercial entities to undertake actions for own and societal resilience, developing and delivering Prioritized Training Courses and promoting DRM knowledge, experience sharing and forming joint projects. The memorandum was signed under the umbrella of ARISE India. ARISE India network is part of Global ARISE Network of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and FICCI is the secretariat since March 18, 2019. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hindalco Industries Ltd is quoting at Rs 204.4, up 1.89% on the day as on 12:54 IST on the NSE. The stock is down 15.71% in last one year as compared to a 11.79% spurt in NIFTY and a 17.26% spurt in the Nifty Metal index. Hindalco Industries Ltd is up for a third straight session in a row. The stock is quoting at Rs 204.4, up 1.89% on the day as on 12:54 IST on the NSE. The benchmark NIFTY is down around 0.32% on the day, quoting at 11886.45. The Sensex is at 39592.11, down 0.23%. Hindalco Industries Ltd has dropped around 0.8% in last one month. Meanwhile, Nifty Metal index of which Hindalco Industries Ltd is a constituent, has dropped around 3.39% in last one month and is currently quoting at 2965.7, up 0.63% on the day. The volume in the stock stood at 52.01 lakh shares today, compared to the daily average of 77.86 lakh shares in last one month. The benchmark May futures contract for the stock is quoting at Rs 203.7, up 1.47% on the day. Hindalco Industries Ltd is down 15.71% in last one year as compared to a 11.79% spurt in NIFTY and a 17.26% spurt in the Nifty Metal index. The PE of the stock is 37.27 based on TTM earnings ending March 19. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Key benchmarks indices may may see flat opening as steep gains in the past two sessions may encourage traders to take some profits off the table. Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could rise 2.50 points at the opening bell. Overseas, most Asian shares traded higher in Tuesday, with US President Donald Trump continuing his visit to Japan. US President Trump is currently in Japan as part of a four-day state visit, where he said during a Monday news conference with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe that he hoped to announce a trade deal with the country soon. Provisional results from European Union (EU) elections also buoyed markets after pro-union parties kept a firm grip on power in elections to the European Parliament. The US stock market was closed on Monday, 27 May 2019, in observance of Memorial Day. Closer home, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 1,215.36 crore on 27 May 2019, as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 327.86 crore on 27 May 2019, as per provisional data. Local stocks logged modest gains on Monday, 27 May 2019, led by buying demand in HDFC twins and Larsen & Toubro (L&T). The Sensex and the Nifty, both, settled at record high. The Nifty ended above 11,900 mark. The barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, rose 248.57 points or 0.63% to 39,683.29, a record closing high. The Nifty 50 index rose 80.65 points or 0.68% to 11,924.75, a record closing high. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The market extended losses and hit fresh intraday low in mid-afternoon trade. The Nifty slipped below 11,900 mark after holding above that level for most part of the session. At 14:30 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was down 173.01 points or 0.44% at 39,510.28. The Nifty 50 index was down 49.65 points or 0.42% at 11,875.10. Among secondary barometers, the BSE Mid-Cap index was down 0.04%. The BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.03%. The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was almost even. On BSE, 1288 shares rose and 1225 shares fell. A total of 149 shares were unchanged. Cement shares declined. ACC (down 0.7%), Ambuja Cements (down 0.63%) and UltraTech Cement (down 0.55%), edged lower. Grasim Industries was down 1.85%. Grasim has exposure to cement sector through its holding in UltraTech Cement. Punjab National Bank was down 3.70%. The bank reported net loss of Rs 4749.64 crore in Q4 March 2019 compared with net loss of Rs 13416.91 crore in Q4 March 2018. Total income rose 13.75% to Rs 14725.13 crore in Q4 March 2019 over Q4 March 2018. The result was announced during trading hours today, 28 May 2019. Bharti Airtel was down 1.46%. The company inform during trading hours today, 28 May 2019, that Airtel Africa, a subsidiary of the company, has announced its potential intention to undertake an initial public offering (IPO) for listing its equity shares on London Stock Exchange and the expected publication of a Registration Document that has been submitted for approval to the UK Financial Conduct Authority. Manpasand Beverages was locked in 20% lower circuit for second consecutive session to trade at Rs 70.40. The Commissioner of Central GST and Customs carried out search and seizure proceedings at various premises of the company on 23 May 2019, and further inquiry was conducted on 24 May 2019 at GST Bhavan office of Vadodara. Abhishek Singh, whole time director, Paresh Thakkar, chief financial officer of the company and Harshvardhan Singh are under judicial custody of Authority on 24 May 2019. The company is contesting these allegations in accordance with the due process of law. Considering the present status of the case estimated impact on the company and amount involved is not identifiable till the outcome in the matter, the company said on Saturday, 25 May 2019. On the political front, Rahul Gandhi has reportedly called a meeting of senior Congress leaders at 4:30 pm today. Media reports suggest that Rahul Gandhi remains firm on quitting as Congress president after the party's national election rout but may agree to lead the party in the Lok Sabha. The Congress won only 52 out of 542 parliamentary seats in the Lok Sabha polls. In comparision, Narendra Modi-led BJP bagged 303 seats. Taking responsibility for the defeat, Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (25 May 2019) reportedly offered to resign as party president at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), the highest decision-making body of the party, but it was "unanimously rejected". Modi will be inaugurated for a second term as Prime Minister of India on Thursday, 30 May 2019. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Zee Media Corporation Ltd is quoting at Rs 14.3, up 1.06% on the day as on 12:54 IST on the NSE. The stock is down 55.66% in last one year as compared to a 11.79% slide in NIFTY and a 30.13% slide in the Nifty Media index. Zee Media Corporation Ltd gained for a third straight session today. The stock is quoting at Rs 14.3, up 1.06% on the day as on 12:54 IST on the NSE. The benchmark NIFTY is down around 0.32% on the day, quoting at 11886.45. The Sensex is at 39592.11, down 0.23%. Zee Media Corporation Ltd has slipped around 3.7% in last one month. Meanwhile, Nifty Media index of which Zee Media Corporation Ltd is a constituent, has slipped around 6.87% in last one month and is currently quoting at 2202.3, up 1.86% on the day. The volume in the stock stood at 8.23 lakh shares today, compared to the daily average of 14.5 lakh shares in last one month. The PE of the stock is 31.36 based on TTM earnings ending March 19. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) One female student was killed and 17 others were injured after a man attacked them with knives while they were waiting for their school bus on Tuesday in the Japanese city of Kawasaki, police said. The victim and the 15 other injured are students of the Caritas elementary school, a private Catholic school, reports Kyodo News. The two other injured were unidentified adults. The suspect, a man in his 50s, had knives in both his hands and stabbed the victims before stabbing himself in the neck, the police said. He died after being taken to a hospital. According to witnesses, the suspect was shouting "I'm going to kill you" during the rampage. The police retrieved two knives believed to have been used in the attack at the scene and are trying to identify the suspect. Mass stabbings are rare in Japan and make national headlines, CNN reported. In 2016, 19 people were killed in a stabbing spree at a care home for disabled people. It was the deadliest mass killing in Japan since the end of World War II. The incident took place during US President Donald Trump's visit to the country. Speaking aboard a Japanese helicopter carrier, Trump said the American people grieved for the victims' families. --IANS ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Eleven security personnel were injured in an IED blast detonated by Maoist Guerrillas on early Tuesday, police said. According to police, security personnel were on Long Range Patrolling (LRP) when IED blast hit the vehicle. After detonating IED blast, Maoist Guerrillas started firing. The security personnel also retaliated the Maoist firing. In the IED blast, eight jawans of Cobra and three of the district police were injured. The incident took place in a jungle situated under Kuchai of Seraikela district. The injured security personnel have been airlifted to Ranchi for treatment. --IANS ns/vin/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Japanese court on Tuesday rejected demands for damages from two women who were forcibly sterilized four decades ago under a now-defunct eugenics law designed to prevent the birth of "inferior" children. The Eugenic Protection Law, which was in effect for nearly half a century until 1996, authorized the government to conduct forced sterilization and carry out abortions to prevent the birth of "inferior" descendants. Around 25,000 people with physical and mental disabilities or illnesses such as leprosy were said to have been sterilized under the government campaign that ran from 1948 to 1996. Around 16,500 were sterilized without their consent. In April, the Japanese Parliament passed a law to compensate victims of the forced sterilization programme with 3.2 million yen compensation ($28,614) to each of the victims. The court ruling the Sendai District Court on Tuesday was one of the first awaited in a series of compensation claims by the victims across the country who have sued the government for human rights violations, Efe news reported. However, the court denied compensation to two women claimants -- one 60 and the other 70 -- who had demanded 71.5 million yen ($653,000) from the government, national broadcaster NHK said. One of these two women told the Guardian earlier that she had been forcibly sterilized in her mid-teens because she was suspected of having an intellectual disability. The court said the deadline for demanding compensation was already over. According to the ruling, as reported by Japan's official news agency Kyodo, the state argued that it cannot compensate the claimants because they could have claimed the damages earlier, under the state compensation law, but did not do so. The state argued that the statute of limitations in the claims of damages under the civil code was 20 years and the two women were operated more than four decades ago. Germany and Sweden had similar measures, but have since apologized to victims and provided compensation. --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Nearly 20 people, including 16 school children were injured after a man went on a stabbing rampage in Kawasaki City, south of Japan's capital Tokyo on Tuesday. The local fire department rushed to the spot at around 7:45 a.m. local time following the knife attack, which occurred in a residential area near Noborito Station in Kawasaki City, Xinhua reported. According to the latest reports, of the some 20 people who were stabbed in the frenzied attack, 16 of them were children of elementary school age. The police said that two adults and one child showed no vital signs following the attack. The suspect, believed to be in his 40s or 50s, has been taken into custody. Police said that the attacker has also injured himself. According to the police, the suspect, who stabbed himself in the shoulder and neck, was unconscious. Police retrieved two knives from the scene of the attack. --IANS vin/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) One female student and a man were killed and 16 others injured after a man wielding knives attacked a group of schoolchildren outside a bus stop in the Japanese city of Kawasaki on Tuesday, the police said, adding the attacker stabbed himself after the rampage and later died. The 51-year-old man attacked the children using knives in both hands while they were waiting to board a bus to Caritas elementary school, the police said. An 11-year-old girl and a 39-year-old man died in the rampage, according to authorities. The suspect also died of self-inflicted injuries at a hospital, local news agency Kyodo reported. The police named the victims of the fatal attack as Hanako Kuribayashi, who was in the sixth grade, and Foreign Ministry official Satoshi Oyama, who is believed to be the parent of another child. The motive behind the incident, which was carried out near a park in Kawasaki's Noborito area at 7.45 a.m., was not yet known and the suspect was not named. According to eyewitnesses, the suspect approached the children, yelling "I'm going to kill you". The police retrieved two knives at the scene and found two more in a backpack believed to be belonging to the suspect. The driver of the Caritas bus told public broadcaster NHK that he saw a man approach the queue of students. He began stabbing the children and then boarded the bus and stabbed children inside as well. "I heard fire engines coming in the morning and I saw a man lying on the ground bleeding," said a witness, adding that he saw many elementary schoolchildren lying on the ground near a school bus stop and school rucksacks were scattered all over the place. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe condemned the attack, saying he felt "strong anger" against it. "It is a very harrowing case. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the victims and hope the injured recover quickly," he said. The incident took place during US President Donald Trump's visit to the country. Speaking aboard a Japanese helicopter carrier, he said that "all Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and for their families". --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), which won the BJP-led NDA government a lot of rural women votes in the just concluded general elections, is expected to be further expanded under the incoming government with a focus on delivery and use of smaller 5 kg LPG gas cylinders. Under PMUY, gas connections are provided to below poverty line (BPL) families with a support of Rs 1,600 for each connection. The LPG connection is provided in the name of the female member of the family. Official sources here said that the targeted 80 million connections under PMUY will be completed in the first 100 days of the new government. So far, Ujjwala connections have reached the 71.9-million mark. After this goal is achieved, use of smaller 5 kg cylinders would be made mandatory under the scheme so that it is available across the country and help support cooking gas refills. "The average LPG cylinder refill under Ujjwala is a pathetic 3 per annum while the national average stands close to seven refills in a year. Price of cylinders is a big factor here as refills are not 100 per cent subsidised," a public sector oil marketing company executive said. "The use of smaller cylinders under the scheme can change all this," he added. While the customer in Delhi has to pay about Rs 712 at the time of purchasing a 14.2-kg cylinder (within the per household limit of 12 refills), the subsidy amount paid in the female subscriber's bank account under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme is around Rs 215. In the case of 5-kg cylinder, the while the current cost of the refill is around Rs 260, the subsidy that will be credited to the bank account is about Rs 80. A Petroleum Ministry study shoes that the high cost of refills for a 14.2 kg cylinder is one of the main reasons why lower number of LPG cylinders are being used by BPL families. With 5 kg cylinders, refills can be had at one-third the price of a regular cylinder. This will make it easier for families to increase their year-round use of gas connections given under Ujjwala. Moreover, portability of smaller cylinders could also allow wider popularity of this cleaner medium for cooking. According to sources, the scope of this vote gainer scheme would be expanded and its terms further relaxed so that this cooking medium reaches the lowest strata of the population. The PMUY was rolled out in the country from Uttar Pradesh in 2016. The initial target for connections under it was kept low, but the government kept on increasing it as the scheme became popular and penetration increased in quick time. (Subhash Narayan can be contacted at subhash.n@ians.in) --IANS sn/bc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Using Artificial Intelligence (AI), researchers have discovered new genetic flaws that contribute to autism in people. Most previous research on the genetic basis of disease has focused on the 20,000 known genes and the surrounding sections of DNA that regulate those genes. However, even this enormous amount of genetic information makes up only slightly more than one per cent of the 3.2 billion chemical pairs in the human genome. The other 99 per cent has conventionally been thought of as "dark" or "junk," although recent research has begun to disrupt that idea. In their new finding, detailed in the journal Nature Genetics, the research team offers a method to make sense of this vast array of genomic data. The system uses an AI technique called deep learning in which an algorithm performs successive layers of analysis to learn about patterns that would otherwise be impossible to discern. The algorithm teaches itself how to identify biologically relevant sections of DNA and predicts whether those snippets play a role in any of more than 2,000 protein interactions that are known to affect the regulation of genes. "This method provides a framework for doing this analysis with any disease," said Olga Troyanskaya, Professor at Princeton University in the US. The approach could be particularly helpful for neurological disorders, cancer, heart disease and many other conditions that have eluded efforts to identify genetic causes. In the case of autism, the researchers analysed the genomes of 1,790 families with "simplex" autism spectrum disorder, meaning the condition is apparent in one child but not in other members of the family. The method sorted among 120,000 mutations to find those that affect the behaviour of genes in people with autism. Among this sample, fewer than 30 per cent of the people affected by autism spectrum disorder had a previously identified genetic cause. The newly found mutations are likely to significantly increase that fraction, the researchers said. --IANS gb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With its Indian business under heavy pressure due to intense competition, Bharti Airtel is turning to its small overseas profitable arms to save itself, as its prepares to list its Africa unit on the London Stock Exchange (LSE), which is likely to raise $1 billion (around Rs 7,000 crore). Although Airtel has not disclosed the amount it aims to raise, industry sources pegged it at at $1 billion. The firm plans to sell 25 per cent of new shares of Airtel Africa in the proposed initial public offering , Bharti Airtel said in a filing. Simultaneously it is also considering a listing in Nigeria, the firm said. Airtel is seeking to raise funds in India from a recently-concluded Rs 25,000 crore rights issue to strengthen its balance sheet and expand its 4G network to stave off competition from Reliance Jio. At the end of the quarter-ended December, Bharti Airtel had a consolidated net debt of more than Rs 1 lakh crore. Airtel Africa last year raised $1.25 billion from six investors including Temasek Holdings Pte, SoftBank Group Corp and Warburg Pincus, valuing it at about $4.4 billion. "Airtel Africa, a subsidiary of the company, has announced its potential intention to undertake an initial public offering for listing its equity shares on London Stock Exchange," Bharti Airtel said. It added that related documents have been submitted for approval to the UK Financial Conduct Authority. Airtel Africa -- which offers telecom services in 14 countries in Africa -- plans to use the proceeds from issue of new shares to reduce debt. It has about 98.9 million subscribers and 14.2 million mobile money customers, with Nigeria accounting for the largest single country subscriber base. As on December 31, 2018, Airtel Africa was the second largest mobile operator in Africa by number of active subscribers. IT recently reported its first full-year profit at $412 million for 2018-19, helped by higher data consumption and Airtel Money penetration. Its revenue increased 5.73 per cent to $3,077 million in 2018-19 from $2,910 million a year ago. Commenting on the planned offer, Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman of Airtel Africa, exuded confidence that the company is in a "strong position" to build its own capital market profile. "Since first investing in Africa almost nine years ago, we have well leveraged our expertise in emerging markets to deliver on a clearly-defined strategy to build Airtel Africa into a market leading mobile service provider, increasingly expanding beyond voice into data services and Airtel Money." Mittal added that "with the recent equity investments into the business by globally recognised long-term investors, we believe that Airtel Africa is in a strong position to build its own capital market profile, allowing others to join us in a real business success story". The new board of directors is committed to carry forward the strong legacy of corporate governance of the parent company, Mittal pointed out. Raghunath Mandava, CEO of Airtel Africa, said the 14 countries that the company operates in offer strong economic growth potential with young and fast-growing populations, low customer and data penetration and inadequate banking infrastructure. These fast-growing markets provide the company a "great opportunity" to grow both telecom and payments businesses, he added. "Immediately following admission, the company intends to have a free float of at least 25 per cent of the company's issued share capital and expects that it would be eligible for inclusion in the FTSE UK indices. "In addition, it is expected that up to a further 15 per cent of the offer will be made available pursuant to the over-allotment option," the company said in its registration document. --IANS rrb-ana/sn/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav has said that the death of Payal Salman Tadvi, a medical student in Mumbai, was actually "a murder of the constitutional protection given to the Scheduled Tribes". Payal Tadvi belonged to the Scheduled Tribe community and was a victim of casteist slur. Akhilesh Yadav tweeted that the "suicide of the brilliant Dr Payal Tadvi belonging to the Scheduled Tribal community is a result of comments against her caste and the reservation system. "This is a case of murder. It is a murder of the protection given by the Constitution. Is this the direction the country is heading towards?" Payal Tadvi, 23, was a postgraduate student at the Nair Hospital in Mumbai. She allegedly committed suicide on May 22 following harassment at the hands of three senior doctors. The Maharashtra State Commission for Women has issued a notice to Dean of the BYL Nair Hospital, seeking a report on the action taken in the case. Her mother Abeda Tadvi had alleged that three senior doctors -- Hema Ahuja, Bhakti Mehar, and Ankita Khandilwal -- persistently tortured her daughter, which resulted in her taking the extreme step. "My daughter told me on phone several times that these three senior doctors would torture her because she belonged to a tribal community. They would use casteist words against her. All we want is justice for my daughter," she told a news agency. The BYL Nair Hospital administration has now formed an anti-ragging committee to probe into the suicide. The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) has suspended the three doctors. The accused doctors, on Monday, wrote to the association urging to ensure 'fair' probe into the issue. --IANS amita/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Claiming that Apple's products are "certainly not just a luxury", the company's software chief, Craig Federighi, has dismissed "the luxury good dig" levelled indirectly at the company by Google CEO Sundar Pichai. In an op-ed article in The New York Times earlier this month, Pichai said that "privacy cannot be a luxury good offered only to people who can afford to buy premium products and services". Pichai did not name Apple directly, but people in the know do not doubt which company he was referring to. In an interview with The Independent on Monday, Federighi said he doesn't "buy into" the criticism that Apple was turning privacy into a luxury good. "I think it's a deeper issue than then, what a couple of months and a couple of press releases would make. I think you've got to look fundamentally at company cultures and values and business model. And those don't change overnight," Federighi was quoted as saying by The Independent on Monday. "And of course, we love, ultimately, to sell Apple products to everyone we possibly could certainly not just a luxury, we think a great product experience is something everyone should have. So we aspire to develop those," he added. The privacy battle between Apple and Google is unlikely to slow down, The Verge reported. As Apple does not rely on selling ads for it revenue, Apple can use privacy protection as a key selling point for its products. This incentivises the company to keep volleying back at Google, said the report. --IANS gb/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The government proposes to bring down its holding in state-owned banks by launching an exclusive PSU Banks ETF (Exchange Traded Fund), sometime at the end of the third quarter period of the current financial year, sources said. Official sources said that a proposal to set up PSU bank ETF has found favour with both Department of Financial Services (DFS) and DIPAM, and that a formal plan would be prepared after the new government takes office at the Centre. Government holding in several PSU banks continues to remain at very high levels. It is as high as 75 per cent in Punjab National Bank (PNB) and 65 per cent in Bank of Baroda (BoB). This is despite market regulator SEBI directing higher public holding in listed entities, including banks, and the finance ministry being in favour to bring down government holding in banks to 52 per cent. Finance ministry officials said the long overdue PSU bank ETF will solve the dual purpose of raising resources for the disinvestment department and help it meet the Rs 90,000-crore target and also help in paring government's stake in PSU banks post-recapitalisation. It is proposed that initially all the top 10 banks would be part of PSU Bank ETF to help the fund generate interest among the investors. Subsequently smaller banks would be added. But before that, the balancesheet of these banks need to be strong to gain investor confidence. The reduction of government stake in PSU banks to 52 per cent is not only on agenda of the government for the last five years, it is also required to meet the market regulator Sebi's mandate of meeting a minimum 25 per cent public float. With repeated recapitalisation due to the poor capital strength of the banks, the government stakes keep on reaching new highs. With the new government at the Centre, it is expected that they would fulfil their own agenda of bringing down its stake in PSU banks. With market conditions not in the hands of banks, the stake sale of these banks many times perpetually get delayed. The Bank ETF would solve that purpose, said the sources. But at the moment it is not decided if the insurance companies will be part of it. Among the PSU banks, 19 of them are listed. The government shareholding in many state-run banks is currently above 75 per cent. In case of their further recapitalisation, this will go up over 90 per cent in some cases and also touch 99 per cent. The country's largest lender, State Bank of India, has already initiated steps for Rs 20,000 crore share sale through qualified institutional placement (QIP). Post QIP, the government stake will be diluted from the existing 58.53 per cent. Many other banks are planning to raise capital through some means or other, depending on the market conditions. Some state-run lenders such as Syndicate Bank, Union Bank of India, PNB, and Oriental Bank of Commerce, among others, have already issued, or are in the process of announcing Employee Share Purchase Schemes (ESPS). The government shareholding is in PNB 75.41 per cent and in Bank of India it is 89.1 per cent. In the merged enitity of Bank of Baroda-Dena- Vijaya Bank, the government stake is 65.7 per cent on the basis of the share swap ratio. In Canara Bank, the government stake in 72.55 per cent. Post allotment of the equity shares, of the equity shares, the shareholding of the government has gone up to 79.41 percent in the Allhabad Bank. In Corporation Bank, the government stake in 93.5 per cent and in Bank of Maharashtra, it is 87.74 per cent. In Oriental Bank of commerce, the government holds 87.58 per cent by . In Uco Bank, the government stake is 93.29 per cent. In Union Bank, the Finance mInistry holds 74.27 per cent. In United Bank of India, the government stake currently is 96.83 per cent. In Punjab and Sind Bank, the Centre's stake is 85.56 per cent. In state-run IDBI Bank, the promoters hold 97.46 per cent stake, as per BSE shareholding pattern of March 2019. (Anjana Das can be contacted ar anjana.d@ians.in) --IANS ana/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Indian chess players banned by All India Chess Federation (AICF) will have to wait for some more time for restoration of their Elo rating as announced by global chess body FIDE. According to them, FIDE Qualification Commission is working on the issue. "Nearly a decade ago, FIDE, at the behest of AICF, removed the Elo ratings of dozens of players and expunged their names from the records. Today we are delighted to welcome back all those players with immediate effect," FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich said in a statement. Queried about the timeline for Elo ratings restoration of the banned Indian players Nigel Short, Vice President, FIDE told IANS: "It might take some time to restore all these ratings, because quite a lot of people were banned and at different times." "At the moment, we still don't know the full list and how many people have been subsequently readmitted. However, the Qualification Commission is already working on it. They do have quite a lot of information, but perhaps not everything. I suspect it might not be until July that it is completely sorted out," Short said. "The players - or at least the majority of them - have not been restored yet to the rating list, because we need to cross-reference different lists and other sources," David Llada, Chief of Public Relations for FIDE told IANS. According to him, some of the players may have been already readmitted in the list in previous years. "We need to check all this and it will take some time," Llada added. Llada said the announcement by Dvorkovich on Monday was not a sudden decision and there is no particular reason why it was made now. "The new FIDE management took over approximately seven months ago, and there was a long list of problems to deal with. We had to establish some priorities. Finally the time came to make a decision on this," Llada said. The AICF is maintaining silence on the FIDE announcement. It will be interesting to see how the AICF headed by P.R. Venketrama Raja would respond to FIDE's announcement. According to the players, there are two options for AICF. The first option is to agree to FIDE's decision and facilitate restoration of Elo ratings of the banned players. The other option is to continue to stick to its stand and tell FIDE that the banning of players and expunging of their Elo rating is an internal issue. The AICF has said that the ban on players will be revoked if they give an apology letter and an undertaking to abide by its rules and bye-laws. However banned players like Gurpreet Pal Singh and Karun Duggal who have approached the Competition Commission of India (CCI) against AICF have rejected the idea of giving an apology letter. Singh told IANS: "We will apply to AICF to restore our Elo rating without giving any apology letter citing FIDE's announcement and guidelines and CCI order." Interestingly the FIDE President's Monday announcement has further strengthened the players' case against AICF in the CCI. Recently, the AICF faced a setback at CCI. According to Singh and Duggal, the CCI in its order dated May 9, 2019 told the AICF that it has not complied entirely with its order dated July 12, 2018 by keeping in abeyance the rule that prohibits players from playing in unauthorised tournaments and not rescinding it totally. On May 9, 2019, the CCI directed the AICF to file an undertaking that it will rescind its rule that prohibits players from participating in chess tournaments not authorised by the latter. The AICF had also said that players seeking re-registration should tender a written apology and give an undertaking that they will henceforth abide by the existing bye-laws/rules. On July 12, 2018, the CCI had held that the undertaking prescribed by the AICF for players regarding non-participation in events not authorised by it amounts to restraints that were in the nature of exclusive distribution and refusal to deal as defined in Section 3(f) and 3(4)(d) of the Competition Act, 2002. The CCI also imposed a penalty of Rs 6,92,350 on the AICF for infringing on the provisions of Section 4 of the Act. The CCI said that non-compliance with such an undertaking will result in banning of players and removal of their Elo rating, create entry barriers, foreclose competition and restrict the opportunities available to chess players. "The said restrictions are likely to have appreciable adverse effect on competition in terms of factors contained in Section 19 (3) of the Act. The Commission is, thus, of the view that AICF has contravened Sections 3(4)(c) and 3(4)(d) of the Act read with Section 3(1) of the Act," the CCI order said. The CCI had also directed the AICF to establish the prejudice caused by a chess player before taking any disciplinary action against him and the disciplinary actions taken shall be proportional, fair and transparent. The disciplinary actions against the four players and other similar players shall be reviewed by the AICF on these lines, the CCI had ordered. The complaint against the AICF was filed by four chess players -- Hemant Sharma, Devendra Bajpai, Gurpreet Pal Singh and Karun Duggal -- alleging contravention of the provisions of Sections 3 and 4 of the Competition Act. The players were banned by the AICF from playing in chess tournaments for the past several years and their Elo ratings were also withdrawn. One of the four players who had originally complained to the CCI -- Hemant Sharma -- was re-registered with the AICF in 2016. (Venkatachari Jagannathan can be contacted at v.jagannathan@ians.in) --IANS vj/aak (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bengaluru South Division Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) K. Annamalai resigned from his job, here on Tuesday. "I had submitted my resignation from the Indian Police Service (IPS). It might take some time for the official process to be over. I am jumping the gun as I wanted to set straight all of the speculations going around," said Annamalai in a Facebook post. According to speculations, the 2011 batch IPS officer may join politics. On the speculations that he will soon plunge into politics in his home state (Tamil Nadu), Annamalai said life itself was too big to talk of opportunities for a mortal like him. State's first woman IPS officer D. Roopa, currently the Inspector General of Police (IGP) in Railways and based in Bengaluru, tweeted that she spoke to the DCP after he tendered his resignation. "He (Annamalai) is plunging into politics. It requires guts, boldness to leave a cushy, secure, hard earned IPS job. It's heartening to see such achievers and youngsters diving into politics. Wishing him all the best," said Roopa in the tweet. Annamalai, 33, hails from Karur in Tamil Nadu and graduated in mechanical engineering from PSG College in Coimbatore and business administration from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow. "For people who are speculating what's next for me. I am too small a man to have lofty ambitions. I just wanted to take some time out and enjoy those small things in life, which I had missed out, be a good father to my son -- who deserves every bit of my time as he is fast growing up, get into farming back home and see whether my sheep still listens to me as I am no more a cop," he said. Noting that his visit to Kailash Manasarovar in Tibet last year was an eye-opener, he said the pilgrimage helped him to set his priorities in life better. "The death of IPS officer Madhukar Shetty (at the age of 47 in December 2018) in a way made me to re-examine my life. As all good things have to come to an end, I have decided that my time in khakhi is done with," said Annamalai. "If my resignation has caused anguish to you, my sincere apologies for that. I honestly believe I have to do this now. It's been an emotional time for me and my best friend who happens to be my wife as well helped to smoothen it out," he said in the post that went viral and is still trending on the social media. Since his posting in Karnataka as a young IPS officer in 2011, Annamalai held various senior posts, including Superintendent of Police in districts like Chikkamgalur and Udupi in the state's west coastal districts. "The sense of pride a khakhi (police uniform) brings is unparalleled and the camaraderie I shared with fellow colleagues will never be forgotten," said Annamalai. Terming the job of a policeman as the closest to god, the officer said a high pressure job like that of a policeman had its own shortcomings as he had to miss many functions and could not be with the people who stood by him in times of need. "Though I have lived every moment of my khakhi, I have been in the service for nine years, I felt a bit stifled at times as I could not be outspoken when I wanted to," he said. --IANS fb/mag/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Feroz Alam a.k.a. Raja had considerable political clout till about a day ago. His SUV bore the name plate 'BSP coordinator Patiyali and he moved around with half a dozen young boys. On Monday, Raja was arrested for getting the MBA paper leaked. He confessed that he wanted to get the paper leaked to help his girlfriend who was taking the MBA examination and he used an AMU employee, Irshad, to get the paper. He promised to get a permanent job in the university for Irshad. Raja, who has now been arrested and sent to jail, told the police that he had promised his girlfriend that he could obtain the examination paper. On the advice of his friends, he sent her a fake solved paper and his girlfriend gave him a piece of her mind when she realized that it was fake. She even stopped talking to him. Feroz Alam met a friend, Haider, and the two convinced Irshad to get the paper leaked. Haider and Irshad are now Feroz Alam's companions in jail. The girlfriend, however, is absconding. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Akash said that the flat where Haider lived had also been sealed since it was used as a meeting point. The flat belonged to Haider's uncle Tehseem Siddiqui who is said to be close to Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav. "This gang would sell answers at Rs 2,000 each and had even formed a WhatsApp group for entrance examinees. The answers have been solved to over a dozen students till now," the SSP said. --IANS amita/mr/rtp (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A day after former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar skipped the CBI summon in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam, the Central investigation agency on tuesday summoned two more police officers who worked under Kumar for questioning, a CBI official said. "The CBI has today summoned two more officers -- Arnab Ghosh and Dilip Habra -- to appear in the agency's Kolkata Office on Wednesday," the official said. Both Ghosh and Hazra worked under Kumar, when he was the Bidhannagar Police Commissioner and were part of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) that first probed the multi-crore rupee ponzi scam case before the CBI took over. Ghosh, the former Malda district Superintendent of Police, had been summoned before, but failed to appear before the agency. Earlier in the day, CBI had grilled Prabhakar Nath, the first investigation officer (IO) of the Saradha Chit Fund case. Kumar, who is now posted as the Additional Director General (ADG) of West Bengal Police's CID department, failed to appear before the CBI on Monday and sent a letter seeking a week's time, stating that he was on leave. The CBI on Sunday issued a lookout notice for Kumar and directed all the airports and immigration authorities to prevent him from leaving the country and intimate the agency about any such move. It had also served notices on the former top cop at his residence and his office summoning him to be present at its Salt Lake office at 10.30 a.m. on Monday. The Supreme Court had on May 17 withdrawn the protection from arrest granted to Kumar by its February 5 order. It, however, gave him seven days to approach a competent court for relief. Last Monday, Kumar had moved the apex court seeking extension of the protection from arrest in view of the lawyers' strike in Kolkata, but the court had rejected it. The CBI is seeking custodial interrogation of Kumar as he was heading the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of West Bengal police that probed the Saradha scam initially. --IANS mgr/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Tuesday asked the Central government to file a reply on a plea seeking to increase the time limit from "20 weeks to 24 or 26 weeks" to terminate a pregnancy. A division bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice Brijesh Sethi listed the matter for August 6 and said that some issues need scientific consideration. The court was hearing a plea filed by social activist and lawyer Amit Sahni, who sought direction to the government to replace or suitably extend the time limit to terminate a pregnancy from 20 weeks by a further period of four to six weeks by bringing suitable amendments in Section 3(2)(b) of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act. The petitioner said that Section 3(2)(b) of the MTP Act, which prohibits abortion of a foetus after 20 weeks of pregnancy, is against the Right to Privacy as it prohibits termination of pregnancy even if the foetus is suffering from severe abnormality. "There is substantial risk that if the child was born, it would suffer from such physical or mental abnormalities as to be seriously handicapped," the plea said. Where pregnancy is caused by rape or due to failure of a device used by a married woman or by her husband, the MTP Act is silent on it, the plea said, adding that it makes termination of pregnancy an offence punishable under the Indian Penal Code if abortion is not done in accordance with the Act. The plea said that the foetal abnormalities were detected between 18 to 20 weeks and the period of one-two weeks was too less for the would-be parents to take the difficult call on whether to keep their baby or to abort it. "...the lack of legal approval moves abortion to the underground (illegal manner) and they are done in unhygienic conditions by untrained persons, thus putting thousands of women at risk," read the plea. It also demanded empowering women with sexual rights, legal protection against sex crimes and sex choices both for their own interest and for the sake of reducing the fertility rate as a whole. The plea said that abortion beyond a period of 20 weeks was permitted only if continuing the pregnancy posed a substantial risk to the woman's life. But the law does not consider the factum of serious abnormalities suffered by the child in womb which are detected after the 20th week. Sahni has cited Supreme Court judgments that a woman's right to privacy, dignity and bodily integrity should be respected. He also mentioned many European countries including France, the UK and Italy and even Nepal which allow abortion after 20 weeks if foetal abnormalities were discovered. He requested the court to hold that the right to abort the foetus was a fundamental right of the woman's body sovereignty and each woman has the sole right to make a decision about her body in the context of carrying on a pregnancy or to terminate the same, subject to checks as provided under the MTP Act or further checks, which may be provided. Sahni also pleaded that unmarried women and widows were equally entitled to terminate a pregnancy under the MTP Act. --IANS ak/mag/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Nearly a week after the crushing defeat in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) President N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday asked party members not be to disheartened by the loss. The outgoing Chief Minister along with his wife Nara Bhuvaneswari and son Nara Lokesh participated in 97th birth anniversary celebrations of his father-in-law and party founder N.T. Rama Rao at the TDP office in Guntur. Addressing the party leaders and workers after hoisting the party flag, Naidu asked them not to get demoralized. Paying rich tributes to NTR, as the late leader was popularly known, Naidu said he brought honour and recognition to Telugu people at the national and even international level. He advised party leaders to follow the footsteps of NTR, who despite electoral defeats did not lose self-confidence and played the role of a constructive opposition. He recalled that NTR was the pioneer of the welfare schemes. Naidu said during the last four days many people came to him and said they had stood by the party for over three decades and they would remain so even in future. Stating that the party was more important for him than the family, Naidu said he would stand by the party workers. The 69-year-old announced that he will come to TDP office in Guntur every day and will be available to party leaders and workers for three hours. Naidu called for analyzing the election results. TDP's Andhra Pradesh unit chief Kala Venkat Rao, MP Galla Jayadev and senior leaders Kodela Sivaprasada Rao and Y. Ramakrishnudu attended the celebrations. TDP faced the worst-ever defeat in the Assembly elections at the hands of YSR Congress Party, which stormed to power with a landslide victory. TDP bagged only 23 seats in the 175-member Assembly and just three of the 25 Lok Sabha seats. --IANS ms/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Shocked by its worst defeat in parliamentary elections, in which it managed to retain only a lone seat in Karnataka, the Congress has blamed the "polarisation" of votes and an unseen Modi wave for the spectacular performance of rival BJP, which won 25 of the 28 Lok Sabha seats in the southern state. "Instead of focusing on real issues like joblessness and rural distress, the BJP succeeded in polarising the electorate by whipping up a frenzy in the name of national security following February's Pulwama terror attack and the air strikes on Balakot in Pakistan thereafter," Congress' state spokesman K.E. Radhakrishna told IANS. As part of a pre-poll seat-sharing arrangement with its ruling ally Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S), the Congress contested 21 seats, but lost 20, including eight it won in the 2014 general elections. The lone seat won by the party is Bangalore Rural, where D.K. Suresh defeated the Bharatiya Janata Party's Ashwath Narayangowada by 2,06,870 votes. Suresh is the younger brother of state Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who belongs to the politically dominant Vokkaliga community (Gowdas). Even the JD-S won only one seat, Hassan, the home turf of party supremo H.D. Deve Gowda. "Between mid-February and mid-April, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed 10 rallies in which he invoked security concerns in the aftermath of the terror attacks and India's surgical and aerial strikes to change the narrative from social and economic issues, while we continued to focus on the 'Minimum Income Guarantee Scheme' Nyay, job creation and alleviating farm distress," said Radhakrishna. Admitting that the party failed to notice the Modi wave as it was an undercurrent, the official said polarisation of the electorate and "money power" helped the BJP to retain the 17 seats it had won in 2014 and wrest eight from the Congress and the JD-S. "In our seat-sharing arrangement with the JD-S, we fielded joint candidates for a straight contest against the BJP and tried to ensure that our respective votes do not get divided unlike in a triangular or quadrangular contest. But our pre-poll strategy and calculations failed to work as transfer of our votes between the two allies did not happen," lamented Radhakrishna. Karnataka is the only southern state where the saffron party has a stronghold since 2004 when it won 18 seats, followed by 19 in 2009 and 17 in 2014, while the Congress won eight, six and nine, respectively. "The Congress has lost more than the JD-S in this election by entering into a post-poll alliance with the ally after the May 2018 Assembly elections to keep the BJP out of power although the two parties did not have the mandate to form the coalition government. By fielding joint candidates, it conceded winnable seats like Tumkur to the JD-S for the sake of coalition dharma," a political analyst told IANS. The Modi wave was so intense that a veteran Congress leader like Mallikarjun Kharge suffered a humiliating defeat for the first time in his own bastion Gulbarga, a reserved constituency for the Scheduled Castes (SC), which he won in the 2009 and 2014 general elections. "Every vote for a BJP candidate was meant to be a vote for Modi's return to power. And the saffron 'tsunami' swept away Congress stalwarts like former UPA ministers M. Veerappa Moily in Chikkaballpur, K.H. Muniyappa in Kolar (SC) and three-time winner R. Dhruvanarayana in Chamramajanagar (SC)," said the analyst. As a Congress-JD-S joint candidate from Tumkur, even Deve Gowda lost to the BJP's G.S. Basavaraj by a narrow margin of 13,339 votes. The BJP not only retained its sway in all the three Bengaluru seats, but also won the five seats reserved for the SCs and two reserved for the Scheduled Tribes (STs) -- all of which had been traditional Congress strongholds. "As there is no love lost between the local leaders and cadres of both the parties at the grassroots level, their leaders failed to ensure they campaigned for their joint candidates and voted for them too," added the analyst. The Congress' vote percentage in these elections also declined 9.26 per cent to 31.89 per cent from 41.15 per cent in 2014. In contrast, the BJP's vote share increased 7.98 per cent to 51.35 per cent in 2019 from 43.37 per cent five years ago, which in terms of annual growth is a whopping 18.4 per cent from 2014. (Fakir Balaji can be contacted at fakir.b@ians.in) --IANS fb/ksk/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Kerala unit of the Congress will appoint a commission to probe senior party leader A.P. Abdullakutty praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state party chief said on Tuesday. State Congress chief Mullapally Ramachandran told the media here that following a complaint that they received from the Kannur unit of the party about a Facebook post by Abdullakutty praising Modi, the party has decided to appoint a commission to probe it. "I am of the view that action should be taken, because it has been made on Facebook and is there for all to see. But our party being a democratic one, we have decided to appoint a commission to look into it and once they finish it, we will look into it," said Ramachandran soon after senior party leaders met here. What has irked the top brass of the Congress leadership here is that Abdullakutty points out that Modi is following the Gandhian model of governance and his huge success in the polls has not just surprised the opposition but also the BJP. 52-year-old Abdullakutty rose in the political arena through the student wing of the CPI-M and as their party candidate defeated Ramachandran twice in 1999 and 2004 from the Kannur Lok Sabha seat. In 2009, the CPI-M booted him out of the party after their differences worsened. It began after he praised Modi's development model in Gujarat. After leaving CPI-M, he joined the Congress party and won the Kannur Assembly by-election in 2009 and again repeated his success in the 2011 Assembly polls, but in 2016 he lost to young CPI-M leader A.M. Shamsheer from the Tellichery Assembly constituency and since then has been keeping a low profile in So this is the second time that Abdullakutty has run into trouble, for praising Modi. But quick to respond, Abdullakutty said all he did was to point out the development programmes of Modi, similar to what Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had said earlier. --IANS sg/kr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rich white residents in an area of the majority-black town of Baton Rouge want to make their own city, have their own schools and be separated from the black parts of town.The area in question has a population of over 70 percent white and fewer than 15 percent black, while the town, East Baton Rouge Parish is approximately 46.5 percent black. According to the report on The Atlantic, It all started as far back as in 2012, when wealthy white parents in the south-eastern corner of East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, an area known as St. George, began to request for their own school district. These parents insist that the schools in East Baton Rouge havecontinuously fallen among the lowest performing in the state, and would probably remain so for a long time to come. The parents had written down just one request in their proposal to the state legislature: Create what would be called the Southeast Community School District. The legislature had, however, not approved this request. The parents could not get the complete vote requirement that would mandate the legislature to create a new school district. They needed a two-thirds majority vote but got less than that. This did not discourage them. They tried again in the next year, 2013, and were shot down once again. This is not the first of these types of requests in the neighbourhood. As far back as 2005, a nearby community, Central, failed to get thesupport it needed for a school district from the legislature, so it incorporated as a new city. That helped it gain legislative approval to create its own school district, Central Community Schools, which started operations in 2007. The St. George supporters had adopted a similar strategy, launching a petition drive and registering a new website: StGeorgeLouisiana.com in 2013. They seem out to create their own city by all means possible. Wealthy white communities trying to form cities of their own is a pattern that has lasted over twenty years. The Atlantic quotes a recent report from EdBuild, a non-profit focused on public-school funding, which says that over73 communities have split to form their own school districts since 2000, and the rate of places forming their own separate cities, have rapidly increased over the past two years. It is said that the reason predominantly white communities often try to break away from a majority-minority school district, is to isolate their property-tax dollars in a new district. They contend that since most of these schools rely heavily on property taxeswhen separated, the parents can have a better say, on how their money is being spent. They argue that so far, their money is not being put to good use and they claim that the schools are in very poor conditions. A group known as Better Together has, however, come up against the movement to create St.George. We did a withdrawal campaign,said M. E. Cormier, a spokeswoman for the Better Together campaign, quoted in The Atlantic. We went door-to-door, told people about the detrimental effects of the creation of St. George, and we were able to get 1,000 people to withdraw their names from the petition. With its government in alliance with the JD-S facing a potential crisis in Karnataka, the Congress is rushing its two senior leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and K.C. Venugopal to Bengaluru to handle the situation. Azad and Venugopal will reach Bengaluru on Tuesday evening and are expected to hold discussions with senior state leaders of the alliance like Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy of JDS and Congress leaders -- Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameswara, D.K. Sivakumar and Siddaramaiah, sources said here on Tuesday. Expansion of the Cabinet is also planned to check the possible desertions, they said. The move comes amidst reported efforts by the BJP to woo potential unhappy MLAs of Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) and Congress. In the elections held last year to the 224-member Assembly, the BJP had won 104 seats, becoming the single largest party. However, it was nine seats short of a majority, because of which it could not form the government. On the other hand, the JDS and Congress forged an alliance, totaling 116 seats and formed the government. The JDS-Congress alliance suffered a severe setback in the just-concluded Lok Sabha elections as it could win only 2 of the 28 seats at stake. Alarm bells started ringing in the ruling camp after two 'rebel' Karnataka Congress MLAs met BJP's senior leader S.M. Krishna, who was earlier with the Congress, on Sunday. "Yes, the two Congress legislators - Ramesh Jarkiholi and K. Sudhakar met Krishna at his residence in the city for personal reasons as they both knew him well and the latter was a veteran Congressman till he resigned in early 2018 to join our party," BJP's state unit spokesman G. Madhusudan told IANS in Bengaluru. Jarkiholi, who was dropped from the coalition government on December 24, by the Congress and replaced by his elder brother Satish Jarkiholi, revolted against the party leadership for being ignored and threatened to resign along with a few other rebel legislators in order to take down the government. Jarkiholi is a three-time lawmaker from Gokak assembly segment in the state's northwest Belagavi district, about 550 km from here. Sudhakar, a legislator from Chikkaballapura Assembly seat near Bengaluru, has been sulking after he was denied a Cabinet berth. "Our party has been ridiculed for predicting the imminent fall of the Congress-JD-S government, but we will let our actions speak louder than words hereafter. Just wait and see," hinted Madhusudhan. Ignoring the party leadership, Jarkiholi also did not campaign for the party's candidates in the recent Lok Sabha elections, in which the Congress retained only one parliamentary constituency (Bangalore Rural) and lost 20 of the 21 seats it contested along with ally JD-S. Defying the party leadership, Jarkiholi also did not attend the Congress Legislature Party meetings convened by its leader and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in January and February ahead of the budget session. Jarkiholi has also been trying to rope in two other rebel party legislators Mahesh Kamtahalli and Bheema Naik to quit the party and join the BJP with him. The BJP is reported to have promised them plum Cabinet posts. "As the coalition government is surviving on a slender majority of 116 with 113 as the halfway mark for simple majority, resignation of 5-6 Congress or JD-S legislators will reduce it to a minority and a trial strength in the event of a floor test," added Madhusudhan. --IANS ak/rtp (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress has said it will move the Supreme Court to demand compensation for the victims of violence in Tripura during the Lok Sabha elections from the state government or the Election Commission. Addressing the media at the party headquarters here on Tuesday, Tripura Congress chief Pradyut Kishore Deb Barman said, "Tripura witnessed the worst law and order situation in the last two months during the Lok Sabha elections." He said on April 11, during the first phase of elections, the incidents of violence were worst. "We demanded re-polling at 436 polling booths, but it took place only at 168 stations," he said. Barman said the April 18 vote was rescheduled to April 23. "We are moving the Supreme Court to demand compensation for the families who lost their kin or were injured during the violence and for the properties damaged during the violence," he said. Barman said the Supreme Court will guide either the Election Commission or the state government to pay the compensation to the victims. He accused the BJP workers of attacking people in the state. "Many people had to take shelter in the forests to save themselves from the BJP workers." Barman said as the Tripura Police had failed to control the law and order situation, the task should be assigned to the Assam Rifles. --IANS aks/pg/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The All India Hindu Convention on Tuesday passed a resolution condemning the arrest of Sanjeev Punalekar, a lawyer associated with the Sanatan Sanstha, in connection with the murder of rationalist Narendra Dabholkar. Lawyers who participated in the convention, which is currently underway in Goa, also said that the arrest of Punalekar by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), in connection with the Dabholkar probe, would be protested at various bar councils across the country. Virendra Ichalkaranjikar, President of the Hindu Vidhidnya Parishad, which is a part of the organising body Hindu Janajagruti Parishad, said that while an uproar is being created over the killing of rationalists and left wing thinkers like Dabholkar, Govind Pansare, M.M. Kalburgi and Gauri Lankesh, there was very little dialogue about the killings by Maoists in the country. "Uproar is being created over the killing of Dabholkar, Comrade Pansare, Kalburgi and Gauri Lankesh. However, nobody speaks on killings of more than 12,000 innocent citizens by the Communists-sponsored naxals," Ichalkaranjikar said. He added that the arrest of Punalekar and his assistant Vikram Bhave by CBI officials earlier this week was a conspiracy to "implicate devout Hindus". Dabholkar, 67, headed the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS). He was gunned down near his residence while on a morning walk in 2013. Besides Punalekar and Bhave, the CBI has so far arrested a total of five persons in connection with the murder. Five years after Dabholkar's killing, the CBI made the first breakthrough arrest in August 2018 of the alleged shooters - Sachin Andure from Aurangabad and Sharad Kalaskar from Palghar region in Maharashtra. --IANS maya/mag/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Tuesday allowed a Pakistani woman, married to an Indian and residing here since 2005, to stay on in the country while setting aside the government order asking her to leave. Hearing the plea of the Pakistani woman who was asked by the Union Home Ministry to leave the country, a division bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice A. J. Bhambhani said the government did not follow procedure when it ordered her deportation and asked that the woman's application for citizenship be considered. Turning down the government's stand that the decision was taken on the basis of adverse security reports, the court said that the material, including intelligence inputs, placed before it, was not sufficient for taking such a step against her. The woman, in her plea, said that she was married to an Indian, was residing in Delhi since 2005 and had two minor sons, aged 11 and 5 years. She had been granted a long-term visa valid until June 2020, but on February 8, received a notice from the Home Ministry asking her to leave the country within 15 days. In the notice, the Ministry said if she doesn't leave India, action will be taken against her and she will not get permission to enter the country in the future. A single judge bench on February 28 directed the Pakistani woman to leave the country within two weeks while observing there were adverse security reports against her. --IANS ak/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The DMK would decide on its no-confidence motion decision against Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal once the assembly is convened. "Wait and see," was the reply by Stalin when a reporter asked whether the party would press for the no-confidence motion against Dhanapal for which the party has given a notice earlier. Last month Stalin sent a letter to the Secretary of Tamil Nadu Assembly proposing a no-confidence motion against Dhanapal. Stalin is the leader of Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly. He said the functioning of party legislators would be known once the assembly session starts. Winning 13 seats in the by-elections, the DMK strength in the 234-member Assembly has gone up to 101. The ruling AIADMK has the support of 123 MLAs. All the newly elected lawmakers took oath of office at the State Secretariat on Tuesday. --IANS vj/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) European leaders headed on Brussels on Tuesday to launch the hunt for candidates for top EU jobs in the wake of polls that shook up traditional alliances and boosted nationalists, the Greens and liberals. The haggling over jobs, including a replacement for EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, is likely to last several months. For the first time the big centrist blocs no longer have a majority as the European Parliament elections boosted nationalists, the Greens and liberals. It leaves the EU more fragmented, so finding consensus may be harder than in the past, the BBC reported. The talks over dinner on Tuesday may not even result in a shortlist of candidates. Outgoing UK Prime Minister Theresa May will participate, but reports say that there will be little or no discussion of Brexit. It is more an occasion for leaders to assess the political mood and explore possible combinations, to ensure a stable balance of political opinions, geography and gender. The other top EU officials to be replaced later this year are: European Council President Donald Tusk (Polish), European Central Bank President Mario Draghi (Italian) and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Federica Mogherini (Italian). The new top officials will take up their posts on November 1, except for the new European Council chief, who starts on December 1. In 2014, Juncker was chosen to head the Commission as the centre-right European People's Party candidate, after the EPP had won the election. But it is a much tougher challenge this time for the EPP's candidate Manfred Weber - a German - after his bloc shrank from 217 seats to 180 in the 751-seat Parliament. He has the backing of German Chancellor Angela Merkel. On the selection of the European Commission President, the European Parliament said the winner only had to be someone "who made his/her programme and personality known prior to the elections and engaged in a European-wide campaign". That opens the door to candidates who weren't strictly candidates before, such as Denmark's Margarete Vestager or maybe even the Chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier, the BBC said. --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Chief Operating Officer (CFO) Sheryl Sandberg will dodge an appearance in all likelihood in Ottawa on Tuesday despite being summoned by the Canadian Parliament. Instead, the company has decided to send Kevin Chan, Head of public policy for Facebook Canada along with Neil Potts, Director of public policy, CNN reported on Monday. The hearing is related to the Silicon Valley's impact on privacy and democracy being heard by an international committee. "We share the Committee's desire to keep people safe and to hold companies like ours accountable. We look forward to answering their questions and remain committed to working with world leaders, governments, and industry experts to address these complex issues," the report quoted a Facebook spokesperson as saying in an email. Earlier in May, the top Facebook executives were issued summons by MP Bob Zimmer, Chair of the Ethics Committee, Canada to appear before the International Grand Committee of Parliamentarians on May 28 in Ottawa. There is a fair possibility that Facebook's decision could be held in contempt of Parliament that would be voted on by the entire House, the report quoted Zimmer as saying. Lawmakers from at least ten countries, including the UK and Australia were also expected to attend the meeting. --IANS rp/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The top of India's intelligence apparatus pyramid comes up for renewal next month when both the Director Intelligence Bureau Rajiv Jain and Secretary RAW Anil Dhasmana come to the end of their extended tenures on June 29 and June 30 respectively. While jockeying has begun, leading the race for the RAW boss's position is Samant Goel. It is a name that surfaced in the bribery case against benched special CBI director Rakesh Asthana. Samant Goel, a 1984-batch IPS officer from the Punjab cadre was co-front-runner for the RAW chief's post along with K. Ilango of the Jammu and Kashmir cadre, who was recalled from Colombo in 2015 amid controversy. Both were special secretaries with RAW in December, 2018. Since then Illango has retired. In the ugly CBI-versus-CBI case, it was alleged that Goel tried to dilute the Moin Qureshi money-laundering and corruption investigation with the help of alleged middlemen and brothers Manoj and Somesh Prasad, who were taken into custody in the Asthana bribery case. Goel is considered close to Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, who had wanted to appoint him as the state police chief. Goel had played up his role in countering the Khalistani propaganda in Europe against India to pitch in for the top job. Last year, Pakistan-backed Khalistani groups carried out the 'Referendum 2020' in the UK seeking a separate homeland for the Sikhs despite protests by the Indian government. But he has competition from the untainted R Kumar who is senior to Goel. Kumar is special secretary like Goel but in-charge of Pakistan and Counter Terrorism in RAW. Believed to have a spotless financial reputation, he is ex audit and accounts with postings in Bangladesh, Nepal and Switzerland and a near-perfect track record. A 1984 RAS officer, he was selected by lateral induction after written tests and interview. Another sound officer in the hunt is Vivek Johri IPS 1984 batch MP cadre who is also a special secretary in RAW, Cabinet Secretariat, but junior to Kumar. As far as the new Director IB is concerned, it is believed that incumbent Rajiv Jain may well get another extension. In the eventuality that he is moved up to the National Security Council Secretariat as one of the Deputy NSAs, then Arvind Kumar, 1984 batch IPS officer of Assam-Meghalaya cadre, who is IB Special Director being reportedly peerless within the organisation is the man for the job. --IANS prs/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the brothers of a man who was lynched in Hapur in Uttar Pradesh to place their statements before the trial court for its consideration. But it refused to direct the Uttar Pradesh Police to conduct any further probe in the matter. Survivor Samiuddin moved the apex court seeking a direction to the Uttar Pradesh Police to file a supplementary chargesheet in the case. He submitted before the court that the investigation did not appear satisfactory and was apparently not going in the right direction. Samiuddin sought further investigation with respect to the statements made by Saleem and Nadeem, two brothers of the victim recorded under Section 164 of the CrPC before Chief Judicial Magistrate of Hapur. The court refused to issue any direction to the lower court regarding the filing of a supplementary chargesheet but permitted the survivor to move the trial court, which will take a decision in accordance with law. In June last year, 38-year-old Qasim, a cattle trader, was lynched and 65-year-old Samiuddin was severely injured in Uttar Pradesh's Hapur district after a group of people attacked them on the suspicion of being involved in cow slaughter. In September last year, the top court had said that the investigation should be supervised by Meerut's Inspector General of Police. On May 2, the Uttar Pradesh Police filed a status report on the investigation carried out in the matter on a petition filed by Samiuddin who sought a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for an "impartial" investigation. --IANS ss/mr/pg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the brothers of a cattle trader who was lynched in Uttar Pradesh's Hapur in June last year to place their additional statements before the trial court for its consideration. A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Aniruddha Bose said: "The order that would be appropriate to be passed, at this stage, would be to permit the petitioners to draw the attention of the learned trial Judge to the aforesaid statements of the brothers of the deceased recorded under Section 164 CrPC. "The petitioners may act accordingly, where after appropriate orders will be passed by the learned trial court." However, the court refused to direct the Uttar Pradesh Police to file any supplementary charge sheet in the matter as sought by Samiuddin, a survivor of the attack, who submitted before the court that the investigation did not appear satisfactory and was apparently not going in the right direction. Samiuddin sought further investigation with respect to the statements made by Saleem and Nadeem, two brothers of the victim Qasim, recorded under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code before Chief Judicial Magistrate of Hapur on May 15. On the other hand, the Uttar Pradesh Police, in its latest affidavit filed in response to Samiuddin's plea, said it could not connect the 2018 Hapur lynching case to a religious angle or find trail of any conspiracy. "The incident had not occasioned on the basis of religious feelings, no evidence indicating the same has so far been brought on record either by way of oral evidence or be means of documentary evidence," the affidavit said. The police have also denied any conspiracy behind the lynching. "The fact of common intention or that of hatching a conspiracy is not reflected even in the FIR. No facts could be revealed to point out the issue of common intention or conspiracy during the course of investigation." To Samiuddin's demand for inclusion of a police officer from a different state in the SIT, the police stated that the officers conducting the probe are competent. "It is assured that no slackness/carelessness had been shown by the officers involved in the investigation," the police said in the affidavit. Rejecting all the accusations with regards to the distortion of the investigation, they, instead, blamed Samiuddin for "twisting the facts". Regarding the bail of the accused, the police said it had no role play in it as the matter was at the discretion of the trial court. The police also informed the court that it had closed the departmental inquiry against the Circle Officer and two Inspectors concerned, as there no evidence to prove their delinquency in handling the incident. In June last year, 38-year-old Qasim was killed and 65-year-old Samiuddin was severely injured in Hapur after a group of people attacked them on the suspicion of being involved in cow slaughter. In September last year, the top court had said that the investigation should be supervised by Meerut's Inspector General of Police. On May 2, the Uttar Pradesh Police filed a status report on the investigation carried out in the matter on a petition filed by Samiuddin seeking a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for an "impartial" investigation. --IANS ss/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed the plea of UAE-based businessman Naval Kishore Kapoor challenging consideration of the supplementary chargesheet filed against him in a terror funding case in the Kashmir Valley allegedly involving Pakistan-based terrorist leaders Hafiz Saeed, Syed Salahuddin, seven Kashmiri separatist leaders, among others. A bench of Justices Manmohan and Sangita Dhingra Sehgal dismissed Kapoor's plea challenging the trial court order taking cognisance of the chargesheet filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) against him in the terror funding case. Kapoor told the court that the trial court had wrongly taken cognisance of the chargesheet as there has been no offence made out against him. Kapoor also said the allegation that he was remitting foreign money into India through the Kashmiri businessman Zahood Ahmad Shah Watali is vague and without any supporting document. The court, however, observed that there was sufficient material available on record which prima facie points towards the involvement of the Kapoor along with accused and Kashmiri businessman Watali. Both of them aided and abetted the flow of funds from fake and bogus companies floated in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and channelised these to secessionists and separatists in the Kashmir Valley. "The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on the basis of fresh material collected, was able to unearth the fresh cause of action against the appellant/Naval Kishore Kapoor and filed the supplementary chargesheet against him," the court said. "...we are of the considered view that the arguments advanced on behalf of the appellant that the trial court erroneously and wrongly took cognisance against the appellant because no fresh material was produced by the investigating agency in the supplementary chargesheet implicating the appellant in the alleged conspiracy, is without force." it added. In January 2018, the NIA chargesheeted Ahmad Shah and Watali along with Pakistan-based terrorist leaders Hafiz Saeed, Syed Salahuddin, seven Kashmiri separatist leaders and others in a case of terror funding in the Kashmir Valley. They were chargesheeted under stringent anti-terror laws alleging that they had hatched a conspiracy with Saeed and Salahuddin to wage war against India for the secession of Jammu and Kashmir. The separatists arrested on July 24, 2017, are - Aftab Hilali Shah alias Shahid-ul-Islam, Ayaz Akbar Khandey, Farooq Ahmad Dar alias Bitta Karate, Nayeem Khan, Altaf Ahmad Shah, Raja Mehrajuddin Kalwal and Bashir Ahmad Bhat alias Peer Saifullah. Watali was arrested on August 17, 2017, while Kapoor was arrested in July 2018. On January 22, the NIA filed a supplementary chargesheet naming Kapoor as accused in the case. The trial court has taken cognisance of the chargesheet on February 6. --IANS ak/bc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Indians holding a foreign commercial pilot's licence (CPL) would soon find it easier to get a flying permit in the country. Aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has decided to amend the existing clause in the Aircraft Rules to simplify the process. The rule requires a person seeking Indian flying permit to have satisfactorily completed training as a pilot of an aeroplane within a period of five years immediately preceding the date of application. "The DGCA is in the final stages of amending the rule under Section J of Schedule II in the Aircraft Rules, 1937. This will remove flying experience requirement in the preceding five years for issuance of a CPL," a reliable source told IANS. The move is aimed at allowing Indian citizens with foreign CPL in other countries to get a licence here. A senior commander said that the proposed relaxation would help everyone as the current rule is very restrictive. Further, it will be aligned with the rules of other countries. Many Indians go to the US, Canada and New Zealand for pilot training as courses are shorter there and in many cases flying experience is better due to clear weather. Captain P.P. Singh, Senior Vice President at Jet Airways, welcomed the move saying it would simplify the licensing procedures and align them with the major foreign regulatory bodies. "It is all the more important for Indian students with modest financial means, who typically work hard in blue collar jobs in foreign countries to finance their own licence. Till now, it has been a challenge for them to keep their flying hours valid and complete the requirements within the stipulated time, failing which it puts additional cost burden on their already stretched finances," said Captain Singh. (Nirbhay Kumar can be contacted at nirbhay.k@ians.in) --IANS nk/sn/kr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An international team, comprising experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), Center for Disease Control (CDC), Unicef and Unaids, will arrive in Pakistan on Tuesday to probe the latest HIV outbreak in Sindh province. "Led-by Oliver Morgan, Director of Health Emergency Information and Risk Assessment, in the Health Emergencies Programme of WHO, a 12-member international team comprising experts from CDC Atlanta, Georgia, Unicef and Unaids is landing today in Karachi to investigate the root cause of the latest HIV outbreak in Ratodero area of Larkana", an official of the WHO told The News International. As of Monday, 700 people including 576 children were tested positive for HIV since the outbreak was first reported on April 25. The Sindh health department blamed "quacks" or unqualified practitioners for reusing syringes which is one of the major source of HIV spread among the general population, especially children. But national and international experts were not satisfied with the investigations so far largely being carried out by experts from the University of Karachi. Fearing a 'foul play' in the recent HIV outbreak in Larkana, officials associated with the international health organisations said that although the "reuse of syringes" was emerging as "most likely cause of HIV outbreak" in Larkana, epidemiologists both in Pakistan as well as around the globe were not "satisfied" and have several questions as to why such a large number of children are infected, which is an unusual pattern. --IANS ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Tuesday said that, "actions - not words" will show the intentions of US President Donald Trump and reiterated that Tehran was not seeking nuclear weapons. Zarif's response came following Trump's statement made on Monday in Tokyo where he said: "We're not looking for a regime change. I just want to make that clear. We're looking for no nuclear weapons," Efe news reported. "Ayatollah @khamenei_ir long ago said we're not seeking nuclear weapons-by issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them," Zarif tweeted. "#EconomicTerrorism is hurting the Iranian people and causing tension in the region," referring to the measures adopted by the US since 2018. Washington re-imposed sanctions on Iran after withdrawing from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) signed by Iran with China, France, Russia, the UK, and Germany. Due to the sanctions and the failure to counter them on the part of other JCPOA signatory countries, Iran announced a suspension of its adherence to some provisions of the nuclear deal on May 8. The 2015 pact puts limits on certain nuclear activities in Iran in exchange for lifting international sanctions. Tensions between Iran and the US have escalated since the latter announced it would reinforce its troops deployed in the Middle East among other reasons. --IANS ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The large-scale defection of municipal councillors and some legislators on Tuesday from the Trinamool Congress to the BJP may only be a trailer of the big picture that could unfold in West Bengal in the coming months, with state opposition leaders calling it the beginning of the end of the Mamata Banerjee-led outfit. Two Trinamool MLAs -- BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu Roy and Tushar Kanti Bhattacharya, the latter still officially a Congress legislator despite having ditched the party to join the Trinamool in 2016 -- one CPI-M legislator Debendra Nath Roy and over 50 councillors of three municipalities joined the saffron outfit in Delhi during the day. The immediate impact of the desertions is the Trinamool has lost control of the boards in Halishahar, Naihati and Kanchrapara municipalities in North 24 Parganas district. Halishahar and Kanchrapara are part of the Bijpur assembly segment, represented by Subhranghsu Roy. Naihati is a separate Assembly constituency. All three municipalities are part of the Barrackpore Lok Sabha seat, from where another defector from Trinamool to BJP, Arjun Singh, emerged victorious in the recent elections. Bahubali leader Singh, a four-time Trinamool legislator from Bhatpara, in fact added to his former party's misery during the day, as he organised the defection of eight Trinamool councillors of Bhatpara municipality to the BJP. The BJP, which now has 19 councillors in the 35-member municipality, is now set to capture the board. That makes it the loss of four municipalities on a single day, the second biggest shocker for Mamata Banerjee after the Lok Sabha election setback. But what could have further raised the blood pressure of Trinamool leaders is BJP leader Mukul Roy's comment that within the next two-three months, his party would take over 55-60 municipalities in the state. Coming from once considered an expert in engineering defections, the remarks could be an indicator of how the political scene could unravel in the coming days. Besides the two MLAs who joined on Tuesday, the names of a lot of Trinamool legislators are floating around as potential BJP recruits. Among them are Sabyasachi Dutta, Siuli Saha, Shilbhadra Dutta, Gautam Das and Sunil Singh. While the two Duttas and Saha are considered Mukul Roy loyalists, Singh is a relative of the new Barrackpore MP. Speaking off the record, Trinamool leaders express apprehensions of a deluge of defections from their ranks in the coming days. In fact, senior minister and Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim inadvertently described the deep crisis the Trinamool faces when he likened his party to a "ship rocked in the face of a storm" while comparing the deserters to "rats". "When a ship is rocked in the face of a storm, the rats jump into the sea without knowing their fate. The same is happening now. We are sure, those who are joining (BJP) are being forced to do so," he said. But Congress Rajya Sabha member Pradip Bhattacharya and CPI-M state secretariat member Shyamal Chakraborty were not ready to shed tears for Trinamool. Bhattacharya recalled the way the Trinamool had poached MLAs, municipal councillors, panchayat functionaries from CPI-M and the Congress in the past to take control of elected bodies. "They are being paid back in their own coin. The Trinamool had started its journey and consolidated itself by breaking the Congress. Now it has started coming apart. And that is natural," Bhattacharya told IANS. "Trinamool will collapse fast," Chakraborty told IANS. However, state Congress vice president Om Prakash Mishra had a different take. "BJP's expansionism could not only be socially divisive and politically destabilising, it would also have negative consequences for the state. I condemn the forced and dangerous expansionism of BJP facilitated by the employment of ill-gotten wealth of the BJP leadership," he told IANS. --IANS ssp/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Jammu and Kashmir High Court on Tuesday came down heavily on the director of Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, directing him to explain how the medical report of the Bandipora rape victim was leaked on social media. Since Tuesday morning, a medical report purportedly related to the medical examination of the three-year rape victim of Bandipora district had been doing the rounds on social media sites in the Valley. The lawyer of the victim's family told the court that the report pertaining to the medical examination of the rape victim had been leaked on social media which has also carried the name of the victim thereby violating the child's privacy. The division bench of the High Court comprising Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice Rashid Ali Dar asked the director of the super specialty SKIMS hospital to explain the exposure of the medical report on social media. Public outrage had followed reports of the alleged rape of the three-year old child in Bandipora district on May 8. The police had constituted a special investigation team (SIT) that swiftly completed the probe and presented the chargesheet against the accused in the trial court. --IANS sq/kr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said she is trying to attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony in New Delhi on Thursday. "We have collectively decided that we will try to attend the event as it is a formal ceremonial programme. It (invitation) reached us at the last minute. "As a matter of constitutional courtesy, I, as Chief Minister like any other Chief Minister, try to attend Prime Minister's or President's swearing in ceremony. We are trying to attend the programme," Banerjee said. --IANS bdc/dm/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Mumbai Police claimed to have arrested one of the three absconding doctors of BYL Nair Hospital, wanted in connection with suicide of medical student Payal Tadvi, here on Tuesday. "We have arrested Bhakti Mehere," Mumbai Police spokesperson and Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Manjunath Shinge told IANS. Two others -- Hema Ahuja and Ankita Khandelwal -- are on the run and have moved the court for anticipatory bail. On May 22, 25-year-old Tadvi, a second year resident post-graduate gynaecology and obstetrics student, hanged herself in the hostel of the hospital. The deceased's family has accused the three doctors of allegedly discriminating, harassing and torturing Muslim-tribal medico Tadvi. In a related development, the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), which runs the BYL Nair Hospital, has suspended licences of the three doctors and the head of department Yi Ching Ling for alleged abetment of Tadvi's suicide. The trio was earlier suspended by the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors and (MARD) later by the BMC for allegedly abetting her suicide with casteist insults. The Mumbai Police on last Sunday slapped charges on the three under the Atrocities Act, the Anti-Ragging Act, IT Act and Indian Penal Code. Meanwhile, parents of Tadvi, the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, various women, tribal and Dalits organisations, and student unions continued their protests outside the hospital for the second day demanding stringent action against the medicos and the hospital authorities. Health Minister Girish Mahajan on Tuesday called on Tadvi's mother Abeda Tadvi and husband Salman Tadvi and assured them of full cooperation and compensation. Tadvi's mother demanded that the government must ensure safety of students like her daughter, hailing from reserved categories. She said Payal would have become the first woman post-graduate doctor from the Bhil community, but her promising medical career was snapped. In fact, Payal and Salman are the first medico couple to emerge from the community. Mumbai Congress chief Milind M. Deora and Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad plan to raise the issue with the Mumbai Police Commissioner and other authorities demanding justice for Tadvi. Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women and the Maharashtra State Women's Commission have taken cognizance and sought reports on the suicide from the BMC and the hospital. On Monday, the three absconding medicos had written to the MARD demanding fair investigation into the case and justice to them without succumbing to police or media pressure. This was the first time in the state that a post-graduate medico had committed suicide over alleged harassment on grounds of caste, MARD General Secretary Deepak Mundhe told IANS. "In the past three-four years, we have seen increase in such behaviour against students coming from the reserved categories, which is unfortunate," Mundhe said. A social media campaign #JusticeForPayal has been kicked off in which prominent personalities from all over the country have demanded justice for the deceased. --IANS qn/pg/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A migrant was found hiding inside the dashboard of a car on the border between Morocco and the Spanish enclave of Melilla, trying to enter Europe illegally. The man, in his 20s, was one of four migrants found inside four separate vehicles within several hours on Saturday, said Spain's Civil Guard officers. Three more vehicles were stopped in Beni-Enzar, Morocco, during the weekend, the Daily Mail reported. Another stowaway was found in an engine compartment, a third under a rear seat and a fourth man in a dangerous position in a dumper truck, where they were in danger of being crushed. Two of these men had to be stabilised by doctors after they were found to be suffering from asphyxiation, disorientation and joint pain due to the conditions in which they travelled. A 15-year-old girl was also among those found. Speaking to Euronews, the press spokesperson for the Civil Guard said the four people were discovered in "very reduced compartments" and were in danger of "breathing toxic gases". An investigation was underway to determine whether the four migrants were related as it was believed that they had all travelled from Conakry, Guinea, the spokesperson said. Three of the drivers have been arrested, and the fourth was released as the stowaway had not needed help to fit into the hiding place, unlike the others. In recent years, thousands of migrants seeking a better life in Europe have tried to enter Spain. --IANS soni/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actors-turned-politicians Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan's choice of Western wear for their first visit to Parliament after their victory in the Lok Sabha elections, was questioned by a section of social media users. The two actresses contested the elections as Trinamool Congress representatives, and won by good margins. Mimi, who contested from Jadavpur, uploaded a photograph in which she is seen posing in front of Parliament, wearing a white shirt and a pair of denims. Nusrat, the Basirhat Trinamool Congress MP, opted for a wine coloured fitted ensemble -- a pair of pants with a peplum zipped top -- for her visit to Parliament. These were far different from the saris and salwar suits that a lot of women politicians wear to Parliament. One social media user commented: "Parliament is not a photo studio", while another user slammed Mimi saying "she is not suitable for the position". Another comment read: "You should wear some Indian attire in Parliament. You are going for people not for movie promotions. And keep some respect towards your Bengali society." "Wear sari in Parliament. You look like a tourist there," one netizen wrote on Nusrat's image, highlighting the stereotypes attached to women politicians in India. Amidst criticism, Mimi and Nusrat found support from certain people. One user praised Nusrat for her "attitude". Another one congratulated her on her victory and encouraged her to "work like a lioness". This is not the first time that a woman politician has had to face people's wrath due to her choice of clothes. Earlier this year, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's change of display picture on Twitter -- from a sari-clad look to one in a pair of jeans -- too sparked debate on social media. --IANS sim/rb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) North Koreans face a daily struggle to make ends meet due to a "vicious cycle of deprivation, corruption and repression", a UN report said on Tuesday, accusing regime leader Kim Jong-un's government of economic mismanagement resulting in its people fighting to get the basics. The UN report, The Price is Right, is based on interviews carried out with 214 defectors in 2017 and 2018. It said that everyday survival in North Korea "is further hampered by officials demanding bribes". Pyongyang rejected the report as being "politically motivated for sinister purposes", the BBC reported. According to the report, the collapse of the state-run distribution system in the 1990s forced an estimated three-quarters of the population to turn to informal markets as everyday rations were no longer enough to survive. "If you just follow instructions coming from the state, you starve to death," one of the defectors said. But the markets exist in a legal grey area, which leaves people vulnerable to officials wanting bribes. Those who try to earn money this way "face arrest and detention", the UN report said, adding that women wanting to earn money are particularly vulnerable. The UN report also criticized the economic management of the country under Kim, who has ruled since his father's death in 2011. North Korea blames its economic woes on sanctions, which were imposed over its nuclear weapons programmes. But, the report said that the military still receives priority funding over ensuring people have enough food. The World Food Programme estimates that 10.1 million people are now suffering from severe food shortages, while the worst harvest in a decade has left the country short of more than a million tonnes of food. "I am concerned that the constant focus on the nuclear issue continues to divert attention from the terrible state of human rights for many millions of North Koreans," said UN's High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet. "The rights to food, health, shelter, work, freedom of movement and liberty are universal and inalienable, but in North Korea they depend primarily on the ability of individuals to bribe state officials," she added. --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President John Bailey on Tuesday weighed in on diversity, saying there are great filmmakers everywhere and they need to be acknowledged. "The Academy and film institutes around the world are dealing with issues of...encouraging and supporting diversity while not compromising on the inherent artistic value of films," Bailey said here amidst many aspiring Indian filmmakers. He agreed that the Academy is looking for increasing its membership in diversity, but not at the expense of quality. "Last year, we brought in 928 new members into the Academy. Fifty per cent were international members... we have been so Hollywood-centric for so long. "There are literally thousands of incredible filmmakers around the world... men and women who have been making movies for 30, 40, 50 years who could have been, but have never been invited in the Academy or didn't know that they could be sponsored. "There need be no compromises. There are great filmmakers everywhere. We need to acknowledge them and their films need to be seen irrespective of gender, race, any kind of ethnicity... at the same time, we need to pay attention to those issues because we have ignored them for so long," he said. Bailey shared that the Academy had started an initiative to double its membership in diversity. "That is inviting more women into all the branches of the Academy. That is also a commitment to diversity in languages, film culture around world," he said. Talking about his visit to India, he said: "Your films are made in 23 or 24 languages. When the Academy is thinking of diversity, I can't think of any other country in the world that represents the opportunities and challenges of diversity and unifying us all through diversity than in India." Hailing India as a land of story-tellers, he highlighted the need for filmmakers to tell personal stories. He also appreciated the enthusiasm and willingness shown by India towards deeper collaboration with the Academy. The session here was also attended by Amit Khare, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and Prasoon Joshi, Chairman, Central Board of Film Certification. Joshi talked about how cinema is a part and parcel of everyday life in India. He highlighted the current trend of 'Cinema Loktantra', the democratization of cinema in India through technology and increased outreach. --IANS nn/rb/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A day ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of the Narendra Modi government, a host of chief ministers will be reaching the national capital on Wednesday, including Bihar's Nitish Kumar and West Bengal's Mamata Banerjee. Kumar will also be attending a Parliamentary Board meeting of the Janata Dal-United. "A meeting of the newly-elected MPs will take place at 5 p.m. at his (Nitish) official residence in Delhi," JD-U spokesperson Satya Prakash Mishra told IANS. The JD-U registered an emphatic performance in the Lok Sabha polls winning 16 of the 17 MP seats that it contested in Bihar. The BJP and its other alliance partner Lok Janshakti Party won all 17 and six seats, respectively, that they contested. The JD-U is likely to get two ministerial berths in the Modi government, one Cabinet berth and one minister of state (MoS) position. The JD-U is the third largest party in the National Democratic Alliance, after the BJP and Shiv Sena. The BJP has 303 MPs while Shiv Sena has 18 MPs. Banerjee is likely to reach Delhi by Wednesday evening. Trinamool Congress leaders said her visit's sole purpose is to attend Modi's swearing-in ceremony on Thursday. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and some other chief ministers of BJP and NDA-ruled states are also likely to reach Delhi by Wednesday night to attend the event. --IANS bns/kr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan's Federal Minister for Science and Technology Fawad Chaudhrylaunched what he termed as the country's first official 'moonsighting' website and a calendar showing main Islamic dates and months for the next five years based on scientific evidence. The website, pakmoonsighting.pk, was launched on Sunday in an effort "to halt the moonsighting controversy" that rears its head in the country every year prior to religious festivals, reports Dawn news. Named Moon Sighting Pakistan, the website features sections such as a monthly 'Hijri' (Islamic) calendar for the next five years, a day-to-day lunar calendar against dates from the Gregorian calendar, and the dates on which the first day of every lunar month will fall. Also available are the scientifically determined dates for all major Islamic festivals/days for the ongoing and next years. Readers can access year-wise data about the New Crescent Moon, monthly moon visibility maps and monthly moon coordinates in major cities on the site as well. Chaudhry had earlier this month announced that a mobile phone app was also under preparation by the scientific committee after which people would also be able to sight the moon on their smartphones. On May 3, the Minister had formed a committee of five experts from the ministry of science and technology, Meteorological Department and the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) to determine moonsighting for key Islamic dates and months scientifically, putting an end to the practice of looking for it physically through telescopes. --IANS ksk (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) Chief Executive Officer Richard Morin has stepped down from his post and his resignation has been accepted by the board of directors with immediate effect on Tuesday, according to a notification. Morin tendered his resignation after the PSX board of directors issued a show-cause notice asking him to explain his simultaneous working with a Canadian wealth management company, the Express Tribune reported. Earlier, the board had issued him two letters and was not satisfied with his explanations, the daily said. According to Dawn newspaper, an emergency meeting of the PSX board of directors was held on Tuesday during which Morin submitted his resignation. "We would like to inform you that Richard Morin has tendered his resignation from the position of CEO of PSX Limited, which was accepted by the board of directors with immediate effect," Company Secretary Muhammad Rafique Umer said in a notification. Morin joined the PSX as the first non-Pakistani CEO in January 2018 following its demutualisation and corporatisation about a year before. According to the board, Morin had simultaneously been serving in Archer Wealth Management Inc Canada as its Chairman and Chief Compliance Officer. "PSX rules and regulations suggest that if a high official is found to be in conflict of interest and does not meet the 'fit and proper' criteria for the high position, then he should be removed with immediate effect," a PSX director said. Morin completed his B.Sc in Economics from the University of Montreal and an MBA from McGill University. He co-founded Montreal-based investment manager Landry Morin Inc. He has also headed the Stock Exchange of Mauritius. He had also been vice-president of National Bank Securities. --IANS soni/pcj (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Days after making his emotional outburst public and adamant over quitting the top post, Congress President is unlikely to recall his resignation even as veterans are deep in 'chintan' over future course of action. Sources in the party said that Rahul has made up his mind and would not consider the repeated pleas of continuing at the helm. Meanwhile, the old guard is back in action and working on various options to sail through the turbulent times. Among them is appointing 91-year-old Motilal Vora or former prime Minister Manmohan Singh as interim President. Gandhi family loyals Ahmed Patel and Motilal Vora are learnt to be working directly in conjunction with Sonia Gandhi, former Party President and chairperson of Congress-led United Progressive Alliance, to prepare the future roadmap. Party insiders said the interim President would work with a presidium comprising younger party leaders such as Ashok Chavan, Gaurav Gogoi, Deepender Hooda, Sachin Pilot, Jyotiraditya Scindia and Sushmita Deb. The Congress party is grappling with the massive drubbing in the just-concluded general election. The party could win only 52 seats while Narendra Modi-led BJP trumped all its strategies crossing 300-mark. Following the election results, the party has been imploding with many state party chiefs offering to resign from their post owning up moral responsibility for the defeat. --IANS nk/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With Congress President Rahul Gandhi remaining steadfast on quitting his post in wake of the poll drubbing, hectic activities were witnessed on Tuesday to tide over the crisis amid questions over whether there will be a structural overhaul, starting from the top. Not only was the party in crisis at the central level, but its state units in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka also looked in disarray and vulnerable to a collapse. Led by his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, a host of party leaders met the angry and sulking Congress President at his residence through the day and Gandhi is believed to have conveyed to them that he could at best lead the party in Parliament as the chief of the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP). He is believed to have conveyed to the party leaders that he was "not running away" but wanted that someone else should lead the Congress, not necessarily from his family. Gandhi cited past examples when the party was led by leaders from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family, according to a senior leader. As he stayed firm on quitting, suggestions poured in noisily from other members that he should not do so but appoint a Working President or a Vice President to look after day-to-day functioning. Congress leaders said that if he had agreed to withdraw his resignation, there was scope for further discussion but because of his response there is no further progress on the matter. Besides Priyanka Gandhi, who stayed with her brother for most of the day, those who met Gandhi included party General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot and Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala. With Gandhi remaining adamant, a presidium system to govern the party is being considered, wherein a group of senior leaders will run the show. Party sources said Gandhi is unlikely to be the party leader in the Lok Sabha and the post may go to someone else as happened in the previous House. But he can be the CPP leader. Two senior Congress General Secretaries, whom IANS spoke to, said Gandhi was not willing to take the position of leader of the Congress in the lower House, which will not have the status of Leader of Opposition, a Cabinet rank, because of the lack of adequate numbers. They said that he was more eager to continue the ideological battle against the BJP and its mentor RSS in and outside Parliament. The leaders said Gandhi had taken the party's poor showing in the Lok Sabha elections personally and offered to step down as the Congress President and called for someone outside the Gandhi family to head the party. He has told senior leaders that he did not want to get into the appointments of state unit and district chiefs. The party is in deep crisis as resignations by senior leaders are piling up across the states ever since its poor show in the Lok Sabha polls in which it bagged only 52 seats in the 543-member House. The number is just 8 more than it got in the last Lok Sabha elections. Gandhi, in the wake of the party's poll debacle, had offered to resign during the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting held on Saturday last but it was unanimously rejected. The CWC, which is the party's top decision-making body, authorised him to make structural changes in the party. However, he has remained adamant on quitting the post and efforts are being made to convince him to change his position. Gandhi is particularly unhappy with Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot as he feels he did not do enough for the party to be able to score well in the Lok Sabha elections in the state where the Congress performed well in the Assembly polls and formed the government only six months back. He refused to meet Gehlot on Monday and asked him to meet Venugopal instead. On Tuesday, Gehlot went to Gandhi's residence and later met party Treasurer Ahmed Patel at the Congress office here before returning to Jaipur. The Congress is expected to call another CWC meeting within the next four days. Gandhi had blamed Gehlot and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath for devoting more time in the constituencies of their sons instead of doing more for the party in the elections. Senior Congress leader Pramod Tiwari, who met Priyanka Gandhi at Gandhi's residence on Tuesday, said this was not the time for Gandhi to resign but seek accountability from those who were given responsibility. "All those who are responsible should give their resignation and Rahul Gandhi should remain as the party president," Tiwari said while speaking to the media after the meeting. "Congress has faced such a debacle many a time and this party has the strength to come back and the party should be led by Rahul Gandhi and the Gandhi family," he added. --IANS team-akk/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rashtriya Janata Dal leader and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad on Tuesday said Congress President Rahul Gandhi's decision to resign will be suicidal not just for his own party but also all opposition. "Rahul's offer to resign suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India," Lalu Prasad, who is in jail since last year in the Fodder scam case, tweeted. The RJD faced a complete rout in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, while Lalu Prasad was imprisoned at the Birsa Munda Central Jail. He has not kept well and had also been undergoing treatment at a hospital in Ranchi. His Twitter handle says while in jail the RJD chief's tweets would be managed by his family. Gandhi had offered to resign during the Congress Working Committee meeting held on Saturday. The CWC had not accepted the offer but media reports since have said that Gandhi is determined to find a successor and pass on the baton. --IANS in/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress President Rahul Gandhi, who won from Kerala's Wayanad seat in the recently-concluded Lok Sabha election, is likely to visit his constituency to thank the electorate at the end of this week or early next week, a party leader said on Tuesday. The senior party leader told IANS: "A programme of Rahul Gandhi is being finalised for his tour to Wayanad." He said the Congress chief during his visit to Wayanad will visit all the seven Assembly constituencies of Wayanad to thank the people. The leader said that Gandhi's visit is planned for either Saturday or Sunday or early next week. "However, his programme will be prepared once he gives the dates to us," he added. Gandhi had contested on two seats in this election. He won from Wayanad with a record margin of 4,31,770 votes. The Congress chief defeated his rival P.P. Suneer of the Communist Party of India who secured 2,74,597 votes. Gandhi received 7,06,367 votes. However, Gandhi lost from his family pocket borough in Amethi to BJP's Smriti Irani by a margin of 55,000 votes. Party general secretary K.C. Venugopal and other Kerala leaders on Monday handed over the certificate of victory from Wayanad on Monday at his residence. --IANS aks/kr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress President Rahul Gandhi is unlikely to be the party leader in the Lok Sabha and the post may go to someone else as it happened in the previous Lok Sabha, party sources said on Tuesday. But Gandhi is expected to be the CPP leader. Two senior Congress General Secretaries IANS spoke to confirmed that Rahul Gandhi was not willing to take the position of Leader of the Congress in the lower house. They said that Gandhi was more eager to continue the ideological battle with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ideological mentor RSS in and outside Parliament. The leaders pointed out that he had taken the party's poor showing in the Lok Sabha elections in which the Congress won just 52 seats personally and offered to step down as the Congress President and called for someone outside the Gandhi family to head the party. Gandhi told senior leaders that he did not want to get into the appointments of state unit and district chiefs. But party sources said that Rahul Gandhi was likely to opt for the post of Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) leader in the Lok Sabha. His offer to step down as Congress President was earlier rejected by Congress Working Committee members. --IANS aks/mr/pg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With uncertainty looming over Rahul Gandhi continuing as Congress President, there is speculation that Sachin Pilot too may quit as Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress chief along with his team of MLAs, in case Gandhi quits his post. Party sources say Rahul Gandhi was instrumental in making Pilot as the state Congress chief in 2014. After the Assembly polls late last year, Pilot was made Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's deputy. With Congress chief himself mulling over his resignation, Pilot's future hangs in the balance, sources said. In the 200-member Rajasthan Assembly, the Congress has 100 members, the BJP 73 members, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) 6, Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) 3, Communist Party of India-Marxist 2, Bharatiya Tribal Party (BTP) 2, the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) 1 and 13 Independent members. The Gehlot government is supported by the 6 BSP MLAs and 12 Independents. However, it appears to be in a crisis at present. On Monday, the BSP MLAs were expected to meet Governor Kalyan Singh. However, the meeting was cancelled at the last minute. A state minister, Congress' Lalchand Kataria, is also reported to have tendered his resignation, though there was no confirmation from the offices of the Chief Minister and the Governor. Another Congress leader said: "Sachin Pilot is intelligent, educated and has gained credibility as a farmer leader too. He can be a good leader anywhere in the country. There are fair chances that the party may assign him to a new location. "Also, Pilot's five-year tenure as state Congress Committee chief ended in March. He was given an extension till October in view of the Lok Sabha polls. Now that might be preponed," said the Congress leader. In case the Congress asks him to shift base, there are chances of Pilot deserting the Congress and then staking his claim to form a government, along with a few independent and BJP MLAs. This way he would get to become the chief minister. "Before the Assembly elections, Ashok Gehlot was the All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and Pilot was the Rajasthan Congress Committee President. There was a clear segregation of their roles," said the Congress leader. Ahead of the Assembly elections in December last year, when Pilot was projected by the Congress as its chief ministerial face in Rajasthan elections, Gehlot insisted on being given a ticket from Jodhpur. "After the elections, Pilot fought for the Chief Minister's post because he had toiled for five years to build the party in Rajasthan. "However, he did not get what he deserved. Party leaders Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh preferred Gehlot's seniority and he was made the Chief Minister," said a Congress leader. Gehlot was also asked to take care of the party's Lok Sabha election campaign. But the Gehlot-Pilot team of young and old blood failed to show any magic in the parliamentary elections where Congress suffered a rout. --IANS arc/rtp/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to hear a petition filed by Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi seeking clarity in the administrative control of the Union Territory. Bedi, in her plea, argued that government officers in Puducherry were caught in a bind after the apex court issued a notice on a Madras High Court order that curbed Bedi's powers. The Supreme Court will hear the plea on Thursday. Bedi and Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy have been at loggerheads on administrative issues ever since she assumed office in May 2016. In the wake of the standoff, Bedi moved the Madras High Court seeking clarity on control of bureaucrats in Puducherry. The Madras High Court in its verdict on April 30, stated that the Lieutenant Governor "cannot interfere with the activities of the elected government". On May 10, the apex court admitted Bedi's appeal to stay the High Court decision and issued a notice to various respondents, including the state government. Bedi's petition claimed that the Madras High Court had not understood the true import of the Union Territories Act. "The High Court has virtually declared the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Puducherry to be that of a State... The high court has equated the LG of Puducherry to the LG of NCT of Delhi, despite the fact that the former enjoys greater discretionary power and has a special responsibility towards Puducherry," the plea said. Bedi's counsel informed the top court that the Chief Minister had issued orders even after its May 10 notice. Appearing for Bedi, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that the Centre was willing to challenge the High Court decision and sought an urgent listing of the matter. --IANS ss/rtp (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to hear a petition filed by Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi seeking clarity in the administrative control of the Union Territory. Bedi, in her plea, argued that government officers in Puducherry were caught in a bind after the apex court issued a notice on a Madras High Court order that curbed Bedi's powers. Bedi's counsel, Gagan Gupta, contended in the petition: "Direct that status quo ante be maintained as regards administrative functioning in the Union Territory of Puducherry as it existed prior to passing of the impugned judgment of April 30 (Madras High Court order), during pendency of the present petition." Bedi and Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy have been at loggerheads on administrative issues ever since she assumed office in May, 2016. In the wake of the standoff, Bedi moved the Madras High Court seeking clarity on control of bureaucrats in Puducherry. The Madras High Court in its verdict on April 30 stated that the Lieutenant Governor "cannot interfere with the activities of the elected government". Bedi's petition contended that the Chief Minister has issued a note quoting the high court order and directed the Chief Secretary, the Development Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Personnel) and the Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Finance) shall review all the existing standing orders issued by the departments concerned and then amend it in tune with the high court order. "A department-wise note in this regard has been called for," said Bedi's counsel. Highlighting the confusion among officers in the light of the high court order, the petition claimed: "The officers are in a quandary as to whether to implement the directions of the high court or otherwise. That the officers are being threatened with contempt action is leading to an administrative chaos, hence the urgency (for an early hearing)." On May 10, the apex court admitted Bedi's appeal to stay the High Court decision and issued a notice to various respondents, including the state government. Bedi's petition claimed that the Madras High Court had not understood the true import of the Union Territories Act. Bedi's counsel sought the apex court to direct that officers in the Union Territory administration shall not harassed or threatened in any manner citing the high court order, during pendency of this petition. "The high court has equated the L-G of Puducherry to the L-G of NCT of Delhi, despite the fact that the former enjoys greater discretionary powers and has a special responsibility towards Puducherry," the plea said. Bedi's counsel informed the top court that the Chief Minister had issued orders even after its May 10 notice. Earlier appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that the Centre was willing to challenge the Madras High Court's decision and sought an urgent listing of the matter. --IANS ss/kr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 17-year-old Australian school student hacked into Apple's secure system hoping to impress the company and get a job. The Adelaide-based boy confessed that he, along with another teenager from Melbourne, hacked into the Apple's mainframe in December 2015 and then again in early 2017 and downloaded internal documents and data, ABC.net reported on Monday. He said he used his "high level of expertise" in information technology to create false digital credentials which tricked Apple's server into thinking he was a company employee. His actions were reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation who contacted the Australian Federal Police (AFP). Defending his client, the boy's lawyer Mark Twiggs told the court his client was not aware of the seriousness of his actions at the time and thought the company might offer him a job. "This started when my client was 13 years of age, a very young age. He had no idea about the seriousness of the offence and hoped that when it was discovered he might gain employment at this company," the report quoted Twiggs as saying. The lawyer also mentioned that in a similar case that happened in Europe, the hacker ended up getting employed by Apple. The iPhone-maker did not incur any financial or intellectual loss from the hack, he said. The boy faced the Adelaide Youth Court and pleaded guilty to multiple computer hacking charges. Magistrate David White did not record a conviction and placed him on a $500 bond to be on good behaviour for nine months, the report added. --IANS rp/mag/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Life in Jammikunta, a town in Telangana, comes to a halt every day at 8 a.m. as people pause for a minute to sing the national anthem. Since August 15, 2017, this has become a daily routine of the people in this town located in Karimnagar district, about 140 km from Hyderabad. An initiative of a local Police Inspector, it is aimed at instilling sense of patriotism among people. Sharp at 7.58 a.m. an announcement is made in Telugu and Hindi from public address system installed at 16 places in the town to alert the people and two seconds later the national anthem starts playing. The vehicular traffic comes to a standstill and those walking stop. Office-goers, workers and school children all halt for 52 seconds to salute the national flag. Those who can sing the national anthem sing it while others stand in silence. After the national anthem, patriotic songs are also played but people can disperse and carry on with their normal activities. Over the last two years, the town police, with the help of volunteers, have trained citizens in paying respects to the national anthem. People have now become accustomed to the daily practice. Jammikunta Police Inspector Pingili Prashanth Reddy introduced this practice to promote a sense of patriotism among people. "When the Supreme Court made playing of national anthem mandatory in cinema theatres before every show, I thought why not do a similar thing at the town level. The idea was well received by people belonging to all sections of the society," he said. Senior officials including Karimnagar district Superintendent of Police Kamalasan Reddy appreciated his idea and he soon got 16 loud speakers installed at different places. The police official feels that besides instilling sense of patriotism and pride among citizens, beginning the day with the national anthem can keep them active through the day. Inspired by this practice in Jammikunta, a similar initiative was launched in Godavarikhani town of Peddapalli district in 2018. Godavarikhani Chamber of Commerce and Trade, with the help of local authorities, installed 25 public address systems and hoisted 111 national flags across the town. --IANS ms/mag/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) China has always maintained the position that any trade consultation with the US should be based on the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said. Kang made the remarks at a press briefing on Monday in response to US President Donald Trump's recent remarks, Xinhua reported. Trump, who is visiting Japan, said earlier Monday that Washington was not ready to make a trade deal with Beijing. The U.S. side, including some high-level personnel, has made various comments on China-U.S. trade consultations. On one hand, they say a trade deal will be reached. On the other hand, they say there might be some difficulties in reaching a deal, he said. "If you review China's remarks in the same period, you will find that our position has always been the same," Lu said, adding that China has always upheld the position that any difference between two countries, including China-U.S. trade disagreements, should be resolved through friendly consultation and negotiation. --IANS vin/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Jyotiraditya Scindia's defeat in Lok Sabha elections continues to hurt his supporters in Madhya Pradesh. While all party members stood by Kamal Nath as chief minister, some members talked about sabotage in Gwalior-Chambal region. Crash of key leaders in the Lok Sabha elections has thrown up a leadership crisis. Who will now lead the organization in the state? Chief Minister Kamal Nath is also the PCC chief for over a year. The party sidestepped the PCC leadership issue after assembly elections to focus on Lok Sabha elections. But the Scindia camp will not let it pass. The party will struggle to find someone acceptable to all. Now that the elections are over, there is a fresh demand for Scindia to be made the PCC chief. Party treasurer Govind Goyal has also criticised the chief minister for not sparing enough time for the organisation. Scindia was the campaign manager of the party in the last year's assembly elections. His supporters had last year suggested he was a better face to invest in for the chief ministerial candidate. There are others who say Kamal Nath has already proved his mettle in the assembly elections. The circumstances were very different in the Lok Sabha elections. This is the first time in three generations that no member from Scincia family will be a member of the Lok Sabha. Jyotiraditya was humbled by his fan and follower till recent times, K.P. Yadav, with a big difference of 1.2 lakh votes. Pictures of Scindia wiping his tears will remain etched in his supporters' minds. Congress president Rahul Gandhi's recent remarks obliquely suggesting Kamal Nath, P.C. Chidambaram and Ashok Gehlot's extra care for sons has revived murmurs against the leadership in Madhya Pradesh. Kamal Nath was quick to scotch the speculation about his possible resignation as PCC chief. The party spokesperson Shobha Ojha said there was no such proposal. Meanwhile, there are reports of state Assembly speaker N.P. Prajapati's displeasure over pruning of security. This opens up a new front for the chief minister to fight on. There was a reshuffle of the security which did not go down well with the Speaker who referred to the Speaker being better looked after in the neighbouring Chhattsgarh. The government sought to ward off the crisis saying the issue was caused by the model code of conduct for the recent elections. --IANS naidu/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In 1990, the American Academy of Arts and Science (AAAS) asked me to write a paper on the economic impact of Hindu fundamentalism for its massive Fundamentalism project. Not having any contacts in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), when I arrived in New Delhi I contacted my old friend Vinod Pandey who was the cabinet secretary. He put me in touch with L K Advani and Subramanian Swamy who provided me with contacts and literature to conduct my research. He also put me in touch with VP Singh who was heading a minority Janata Dal government with outside support from the BJP and the ... One of the doctors accused of abetting the suicide of a junior female colleague by tormenting her with casteist slurs was arrested here on Tuesday, police said. The Agripada police arrested Bhakti Mehere after initial interrogation, an officer said. Mehere and two other doctors, Ankita Khandelwal and Hema Ahuja, were booked after the woman, Payal Tadvi committed suicide, the police said. All three moved an anticipatory bail application before the sessions court here on Tuesday and it is likely to come up for hearing on Wednesday. The trio has been booked under relevant provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, the Anti-Ragging Act, the IT Act and Section 306 (abetment to suicide) of the Indian Penal Code. Tadvi hanged herself last Wednesday, following which the 26-year-old's family alleged that the senior doctors tortured her by ragging and hurling casteist abuses as she belonged to a Scheduled Tribe. Tadvi's parents protested at the state-run hospital in Mumbai where she worked. Other protesters also joined Tadvi's mother Abedam and husband Salman, demanding stringent action against the three seniors. The Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, and other Dalit and tribal organisations held protests outside the B Y L Nair Hospital. Abeda asked whether the government would take responsibility for the safety of students like her daughter, who are pursuing higher education. "Payal used to tell me about the torture which she was facing by her seniors on petty issues. They threw files on her face in front of patients," she said. "Payal used to tell me not to give a written complaint against her seniors despite being harassed by them. She would say that doing so would adversely impact their career," Abeda said. She said Tadvi would have been the first woman MD (doctor of medicine) from their community. Salman, a doctor, said it was possible that Tadav was "murdered" by the three women doctors. Expressing solidarity with the protesters and with Tadvis family, Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad said he would visit Maharashtra if needed to "fight for justice for our younger sister". The state women's commission has also taken cognisance of the matter and issued a notice to the hospital authorities. On Tuesday, it wrote a letter to the Mumbai police commissioner, seeking a thorough investigation in the case. The panel, which termed the case "very serious", has sought a report from the police within eight days, an official said. It said there was a need to take stringent action against the accused under sections of abetment to suicide, the SC/ST Act and Anti-Ragging Act, the official said. In a related development, the anti-ragging committee of Nair Hospital submitted its report in Tadvi's suicide case to the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences. "We have submitted our sealed report to the MUHS," said Ramesh Bharmal, Dean, Nair Hospital, who did not reveal any details of the report, saying it was confidential. "We are cooperating with the police in their investigation and providing whatever help they want," Bharmal told PTI. In the morning, Minister for Medical Education Girish Mahajan visited the hospital and also met the protesters and parents of the victim, the official said. The Mumbai Congress demanded that all the three doctors booked in the case be tried in a fast-track court. A delegation led by of Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora met Joint CP (Law and Order) Vinay kumar Chaube and made the demand. In a statement, the Mumbai Congress said Tadvi's suicide was unfortunate and a serious issue. "The Tadvi family should get justice. The three doctors should be punished severely. A message should go out in Mumbai and Maharashtra that there is no place for casteism in educational institutions," it said. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena spokesperson Neelam Gorhe said those accused of abetting Tadvi's suicide should be booked under IPC section 302 (murder). She demanded that Mahajan take a review of all anti- ragging committees in education institutions in the state. Gorhe said the issue would be raised in the state legislature session starting from June 17. The three accused had on Monday sought a "fair probe" in the case. In a letter to the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD), the accused said they wanted the college to conduct a fair investigation in the matter and "give justice" to them. "This is not the way to do an investigation through police force and media pressure, without hearing our side," the three doctors said in the letter. The MARD has suspended the three doctors. "We have credible inputs that the three doctors made casteist remarks against Dr Payal Tadvi, who allegedly committed suicide. We will cooperate with the police for the further investigation," a senior MARD official said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Eleven personnel of the CRPF and the state police were injured in an triggered by Naxals in Jharkhand's Seraikela Kharsawan district in the early hours of Tuesday, officials said. The blast took place around 5 am when a joint team of the CRPF's special jungle warfare unit, CoBRA, and the state police was carrying out an operation in the forests of Kuchai area in the district, they said. According to officials, the improvised explosive device (IED) is suspected to have been buried under the dirt track. The injured troops, eight of the CoBRA and rest belonging to the state police, have been airlifted to state capital Ranchi, they said. The joint team was being led by the 209th battalion of the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) of the Central Reserve Police Force deployed in the state for anti-Naxal operations, officials said. At least 13 people died and around 40 others were taken ill after consuming spurious liquor in Uttar Pradesh's Barabanki district, officials said on Tuesday. Locals from Raniganj and adjoining villages consumed the liquor purchased from a shop in Ramnagar area -- around 60 km northeast of Lucknow -- on Monday night. They were rushed to a community health centre after they were taken ill in the morning, police said. At least 12 people, including four members of a family, have died due to consumption of the spurious liquor, Superintendent of Police Ajay Sahni said in a statement. Another person died at the trauma centre of a Lucknow hospital. Thirty-four people are undergoing treatment and the condition of three is critical, KGMU hospital spokesperson Sandeep Tiwari told PTI. Five-six others have been brought to the Balrampur and Ram Manohar Lohia hospitals in Lucknow, a minister said. The tragedy led to the suspension of 10 excise and two police officers, state Excise Minister Jai Pratap Singh said. Barabanki Excise Officer Shiv Narayan Dube, Excise Inspector Ramtirath Maurya, three head constables and five constables of the excise department have been suspended with immediate effect. Circle Officer Pawan Gautam and Station House Officer Rajesh Kumar Singh have also been suspended on the charges of dereliction of duty, the minister said. He said the excise commissioner, joint and deputy commissioners were rushed to the spot, adding that directives had been issued to ensure all medical facilities to those undergoing treatment. Chief Minister has set up a high-level committee to probe all angles, including a "political conspiracy", and submit a report within 48 hours, state cabinet minister Siddhart Nath Singh said. Adityanath directed senior officials to take stern action against all those found guilty, a senior official said. The chief minister announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for each of the deceased. They have been identified as Raju Singh (30), Rajesh (35), Ramesh Kumar (35), Sonu (25), Mukesh (28), Chhotelal (60), Suryabaksh, Rajendra Verma, Shiv Kumar (38), Mahendra, Ramshare (20), Mahesh Singh (45) and Ram Swaroop (50), officials said. Earlier this year, after a major hooch tragedy in the state and in Uttarakhand that claimed around 100 lives, Adityanath had suggested the involvement of the Samajwadi Party in "such mischievous acts" and promised action against those involved in the illicit liquor trade irrespective of their political association. Fourteen of the 26 people charged with forcibly tonsuring the heads of nine men and trimming the nails of seven women in Jharkhand's Seraikela- Kharsawan district have been arrested, police said Tuesday. The arrested persons include the gram pradhan Vikash Satpathi. They were produced before a local court, which send them to 14 days judicial custody on Monday, said Rajnagar police station, In-charge, Jitendra Kumar Singh. Raids were on to nab the rest accused, he said. An FIR was filed on the complaint of one of the victims, Sushila Mahato, under IPC sections 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 341 (wrongfully restraining any person) and Prevention of Witchcraft Act, the police officer said. According to the FIR, the victims had refused to perform the rituals themselves following the death of a fellow villager and were forcibly tonsured and the nails of the women were trimmed on May 23 at Chhota Krishnapur village. Mahato, however, claimed that the accused did this as they alleged that the victims practise black magic. The police received information about the incident that took place in Chhota Krishnapur village on May 23. Superintendent of Police Chandan Kumar Sinha had said that a resident of the village died recently and other villagers shaved their heads as per Hindu customs, but 16 men and women of 12 families refused to perform the ritual. The victims worship a "Guru Maa" and they neither follow Hindu rituals nor go to temples, he said. Considering their refusal inauspicious, the villagers held a meeting and directed the 16 men and women to take a bath and shave their heads so that they could be "purified", the SP said. When the victims refused to obey the diktat, the villagers allegedly forcibly tonsured the heads of the men and trimmed the nails of the women, he said. The victims did not inform the police directly as, Mahato claimed, they were supposed to do it through the village head. The victims, who left their homes and took shelter at the 'Andh-Vishwas Unmulan Kendra' (Centre for Eradication of Superstition) in Birbans village, returned home with police protection and policemen have been deployed in the village, the officer said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Fifteen security personnel were injured when Maoists triggered a series of IED blasts near Hurda forests in Jharkhand's Seraikela-Kharsawan district in the early hours of Tuesday, a police officer said. The blasts took place around 5 am when a joint team of the CRPF's special jungle warfare unit, CoBRA, and the police was carrying out anti-Naxal operations in the forests of Kuchai area in the district, he said. "Fifteen security men were injured when the Maoists triggered as many IED blasts. Two of the 15 injured are in a serious condition," Inspector General of Police (Operation) Ashish Batra said. The injured troops, 13 belonging to the CRPF's CoBRA battalion and the rest of the Jharkhand Armed Police and the district police, were airlifted to Ranchi, another senior officer said. The area has been cordoned off and a search operation is on to nab the culprits, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi police has arrested two persons for allegedly killing a man in northeast Delhi, officials said Tuesday. The accused, identified as Rihan (32) and his nephew Danish (24), are residents of J-block in New Seelampur, they said. "Police on April 13 received information regarding an injured person Nafees. He was declared brought dead at GTB Hospital," Deputy Commissioner of Police (northeast) Atul Kumar Thakur said. During investigation, police received information regarding the alleged killers of Nafees, accordingly a trap was laid near Dharmpura Red Light and the accused persons were arrested, the DCP said. During interrogation, the police learnt that Rihan had allegedly killed his sister's lover in 2009 and shot dead his brother's father-in-law over a petty issue. Rihan was the mastermind while Danish was his associate in the matter, police said, adding that Rihan had earlier jumped parole. One automatic pistol, one country-made pistol, three live cartridges, one motorcycle and one car were recovered from their possession, police added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three members of a family died when their car rammed into a truck in Haryana's Hisar district on Tuesday, police said. The incident occurred on the Hisar-Hansi bypass, about 25 km from here, when they were returning from the Delhi airport to the Damdama village in Sirsa district, the police said. Three persons were killed and as many got injured, police said The deceased have been identified as Jaskaran (46), his 11-year-old daughter, Gurgagandeep Kaur, and his brother, Gurmukh Singh (42), police said. Jakaran's wife, Harvinder Kaur, daughter Jai Kaur and son Jaldev Singh were admitted to a hospital, and the condition of the latter is stated to be critical, the police said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three West Bengal MLAs, including BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu Roy, joined the saffron party Tuesday as it works to consolidate its position in the state following its impressive show there in the Lok Sabha polls. Subhrangshu Roy was suspended by the TMC for his "anti-party" activities after the general election results were announced. They joined the BJP at the party's headquarters here in the presence of BJP general secretary Kailash Vijaywargiya and Mukul Roy. TMC's Tusharkanti Bhattacharya and CPI(M)'s Debendra Nath Roy were the other MLAs from the state who joined the saffron party along with several councillors, BJP leader Anil Baluni said. Mukul Roy is seen to be instrumental in engineering the defection of TMC leaders to the BJP and, political watchers believe, he is one of the key architects of the party's best ever show in West Bengal, where TMC president Mamata Banerjee is in power since 2011. In the Lok Sabha polls, the TMC fell to 22 seats from 34, while the BJP's tally zoomed to 18 from two. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Noida Police has arrested four people for allegedly looting one kg of gold from the employees of a jewellery designing firm here and seized cash worth Rs 30 lakh from their possession, officials said Tuesday. On May 20, two-bike borne assailants had looted a car which had the gold that was being transported from Divya Creations's office in Sector 82 to a jewellery showroom in Okhla when its occupants, the firm's employee and a driver, were overpowered by the duo at gunpoint, they said. The two robbers, their third partner and a jeweller, who had purchased the looted gold from them were arrested Monday evening from Dadri town, Gautam Buddh Nagar Senior Superintendent of Police Vaibhav Krishna said. "The car, a Maruti Ritz, was recovered soon after the incident when police chased the criminals but they had escaped with the looted gold on a motorcycle," he told reporters. The accused were identified as Vikas Singh, Bhupendra Singh alias Goli, Israr, and jeweller Ashwini, he said, adding that the gold was sold for Rs 30 lakh to the jeweller in Dadri. "Full amount of Rs 30 lakh has been recovered and around half (400 gm) of gold looted has also been recovered. One 32 mm pistol and a country-made pistol have also been recovered from the robbers," Krishna said. "The case has been worked out in a week," he added. Vikas Singh, who worked at a company located near the office of Divya Creations in Noida had hatched the conspiracy, the SSP said. "He had got the details of this firm's outgoing supplies through the dispatch challans that were prepared at the gate no 1 exit for all vehicles going out of the Noida Special Economic Zone (NSEZ). He had procured details of products from the 'job work' registered there," Krishna said. Vikas Singh had contacted his acquaintances Israr and Bhupendra Singh for the loot, the SSP said, adding that he had already informed Ashwini, who was his friend from school days, for selling the gold. "Vikas Singh had reconnoitered the area well and taken all specifics on May 20 afternoon, before going behind the car that was looted at 4.30 pm on a motorcycle," he added. A case was registered at the Noida Phase 2 police station on May 20 under Indian Penal Code Section 392 (robbery) and now charges under the Arms Act have also been pressed against them, police said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Ceyber Cell of Gurgaon police has arrested four computer experts, speaking fluent English in American accent, for allegedly duping over 100 US citizens by securing their banking and other personal details. The arrested persons were identified as Delhi residents Ajay Mishra, Ambrish Chaudhary, Mir Jahan and Ankit Saksena, running a call centre at Udyog Vihar in Gurgaon. The quartet used to make random calls to US citizens and offered them technical help related to Microsoft Office, MS Window and printers and managed to obtain their personals details on the pretext of providing them requisite help, said Gurgaon Police Commissioner Mohamad Akil. They generally targeted US citizen with obvious reason that they would not lodge complaints in India," he added. "The four are well trained in computer applications, both software and hardware. They also speak fluent English in American accent," said the officer. "While providing technical support to the targeted persons, they would trick them to part with their banking details like the credit, debit or gift card numbers and their pins, i-tunes, mobile numbers, computer IP numbers," he said. They would subsequently use virtual payment gateways to dupe US citizens, he added. The matter was reported to the Gurgaon police by some Microsoft officials as the four accused had duped US citizens on the pretext of providing them Microsoft-related services and the victims, in turn, had approached the Microsoft. The Microsoft officials, approached Gurgaon police after tracing the IP addresses of laptops, used in fraudulent activities, to Gurgaon. The matter being very serious and involving a reputed company, the case was transferred to the Cyber Cell and the best of officers were put on it, said Akil. "Our Cyber Cell experts immediately traced the tricksters' office to Udyog Vihar, Phase 3 and raided it," he said. On being asked to show the relevant documents to run the call centre, the accused failed to provide them, following which they were arrested, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An accused who has been diagnosed with third stage oral cancer in jail and wants to "die in the lap of his mother" has moved a bail plea in the Supreme Court which sought Rajasthan Police's response on it on Tuesday. A vacation bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Aniruddha Bose issued notice to the police on the petition and sought its response by June 5, the next date of hearing. The petitioner is accused of being in possession of counterfeit currency and a case was lodged against him in Jaipur last year. He has moved the apex court against the April 24 order of the Rajasthan High Court which had dismissed his plea seeking interim bail in the case. He said he has been diagnosed with third stage oral cancer in jail and is getting daily radio therapy at a hospital in Jaipur. "The petitioner was diagnosed with cancer at Jail and has been undergoing radiotherapy on daily basis for the last eight months. His successive bail applications were dismissed for the reason that he has been receiving treatment at Sawai Man Singh Hospital, Jaipur," he said in his plea, claiming that he has been denied the right treatment for the ailment. He has sought interim bail saying trial in the case would take a long time and by then, he may be dead or even lose his mental balance to understand the trial proceedings. "The cancer patient loses hope like the petitioner who has lost hope of living, wants to die in the lap of his mother craving for emotional support of the mother and near and dear," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Television actor Karan Oberoi, arrested on charges of raping and blackmailing a woman, has approached the Bombay High Court for bail after a sessions court rejected his plea for the relief earlier this month. The lower court had rejected Oberoi's plea noting that investigation into the case was incomplete, and hence it would be incorrect to release the accused on bail. In his petition filed in the HC Monday through advocate Dinesh Tiwari, Oberoi claimed he was falsely implicated in the case, and that it was a consensual relationship between him and the woman. The 40-year-old, who has acted in television serials and appeared in commercials, was arrested earlier this month after the woman, who was in a relationship with him since 2016, lodged a complaint with Oshiwara police alleging that Oberoi had raped her on the pretext of marriage. She also alleged that Oberoi shot some objectionable videos of her and demanded money while threatening to release these clips. The HC is likely to take up Oberoi's petition for hearing next week. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Afghanistan's attorney general opened an investigation Tuesday into allegations that some members of President Ashraf Ghani's administration are trading government positions for sexual favours. The accusations made last week by General Habibullah Ahmadzai, a former security advisor to Ghani, have sparked an outcry in Kabul. Many have taken to social media to demand a probe. In a statement, the attorney general's office vowed to investigate allegations "in a serious, fair, neutral and independent way". Investigators have already asked Ahmadzai to deliver by Thursday any evidence he may have to support his claims, which he first made in a televised interview last week. Without providing any evidence, he levelled several corruption claims and said "circles" inside the Afghan presidential palace were asking women for sexual favours -- offering coveted government seats in return. "People were working systematically to promote adultery in the palace," he claimed. The allegations from Ahmadzai, who unsuccessfully ran for parliament in October elections, were initially backed by Mariam Wardak, a former advisor to Afghanistan's national security council. She told an Indian channel that "the issues he brought up and highlighted reflect reality." However, critics said Wardak's comments could have serious repercussions for thousands of women working in government offices. She later said her words had been "distorted". On Sunday, Ghani's spokesman rejected Ahmadzai's claims as "completely false and baseless." "This issue will be seriously investigated and the results will be shared with the people of Afghanistan," he said. Afghan women today often enjoy far greater freedom than they did under the brutally repressive Taliban regime, including the right to an education and the ability to work for the government. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) MacKenzie Bezos, soon-to-be ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has promised to donate half her fortune to charity, joining the ranks of the world's ultra-wealthy philanthropists, the Giving Pledge has announced. The charitable organisation, founded in 2010 by Warren Buffett and Bill Gates, listed MacKenzie Bezos, an American, among 19 new signatories of the pledge from China, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates and Britain. She instantly became one of the world's wealthiest individuals in April, gaining a net worth estimated at USD36 billion after finalising the terms of her divorce with Jeff Bezos, the world's richest man. "In addition to whatever assets life has nurtured in me, I have a disproportionate amount of money to share," MacKenzie Bezos said in a letter announcing that she was joining the pledge on Tuesday. "My approach to philanthropy will continue to be thoughtful. It will take time and effort and care. But I won't wait. And I will keep at it until the safe is empty." As part of the couple's pending divorce, MacKenzie Bezos is to retain 25 percent of the Amazon shares the pair had held jointly, equal to about four percent of the company, but will surrender all her voting rights. More than 200 people have taken the Giving Pledge, including Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, investor Bill Ackman, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, and investor Robert F Smith, who made waves earlier this month by announcing he would pay off the student loans of an entire graduating class at the historically black Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. Jeff Bezos, whose fortune is currently estimated at well over USD 100 billion, has not taken the pledge but in September announced a USD 2 billion investment fund intended to support homeless families and education in poor communities. MacKenzie Bezos, born MacKenzie Tuttle, met Jeff Bezos in 1992, before he founded what would become the global online retail, tech and government contracting behemoth Amazon. The company is worth nearly USD 900 billion. The announcement of their divorce in January was followed several weeks later by the publication of personal text messages between Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez, a television personality with whom he had an extramarital affair. Forbes has yet to list MacKenzie Bezos on its list of billionaires, pending the finalization of the divorce, which should make her the world's third-richest woman, behind France's Francoise Bettencourt-Meyers, the L'Oreal heiress (USD 49.3 billion), and the American Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton (USD 44.4 billion). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Budget carrier AirAsia India Tuesday announced the launch of a cadet pilots training programme in partnership with New Zealand Airline Academy and Harrison Omniview Consulting to cater to the increasing demand. Under the programme, the company plans to train 50 cadets in the first year and the first batch of 15 pilots is expected to join AirAsia fleet by 2021, an airline spokesperson told PTI. According to AirAsia India, the country is expected to require up to 10,000 new pilots by 2030 to meet the industry's demand amid the increasing number of air passengers every year. Moreover, as AirAsia India expands its network and fleet, the need for pilots is also set to increase proportionally, it said. "With the rising demand for pilots in India, we are delighted to launch our cadet pilot program to welcome the next generation of pilots to our family of Allstars (AirAsia group employees). With the launch of this program, we are giving this platform to everyone who aspires to be a pilot," Manish Uppal, head of operations, AirAsia India said. For selection in the 18-24 month long course, the candidate will have to go through a screening process with Harrison and, on getting it cleared the selected candidates will undergo a four months ground training in New Delhi, the spokesperson said. Post the ground training, the students will go to New Zealand for flying training, the company said adding that they will also be provided a four months training for Airbus A320 type rating. "It gives us immense pleasure to be associated with AirAsia India on this initiative of providing pilot training in New Zealand at an affordable cost to the Indian students," said Jonathan Manuel, director and chief executive at New Zealand Airline Academy on the tie-up. AirAsia India currently has a fleet of 21 aircraft covering 19 destinations pan-India. "The cadet pilot programme is a streamlined, economical and a well-structured pathway to become a pilot, regardless of the fact that the candidate is fresh out of school or is looking for a career change," Anjali Chatterjee, head-people and culture, AirAsia India said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Telecom czar Sunil Mittal-led Bharti Airtel's Africa unit plans to launch over USD 1 billion (around Rs 6,970 crore) IPO in London to help reduce debt. The firm plans to sell 25 per cent of new shares of Airtel Africa in the proposed initial public offering (IPO) and is looking to trade on the main market of the London Stock Exchange using its premium listing segment, Bharti Airtel said in a regulatory filing. It is also considering a listing in Nigeria, the firm added. Airtel Africa last year raised USD 1.25 billion from six investors including Temasek Holdings Pte, SoftBank Group Corp and Warburg Pincus, giving it an equity value of about USD 4.4 billion. While the company did not divulge the amount it intends to raise from the proposed public offer, banking sources said it expects to raise over USD 1 billion. "In furtherance to our previous intimations in this regard, we wish to inform you that Airtel Africa, a subsidiary of the company, has announced its potential intention to undertake an initial public offering for listing its equity shares on London Stock Exchange...," Bharti Airtel said. It added that related documents have been submitted for approval to the UK Financial Conduct Authority. Airtel Africa -- which offers telecom services in 14 countries in Africa -- plans to use the proceeds from issue of new shares, to reduce debt. It has about 98.9 million subscribers and 14.2 million mobile money customers, with Nigeria accounting for the largest single country subscriber base. As on December 31, 2018, Airtel Africa was the second largest mobile operator in Africa by number of active subscribers. Airtel Africa recently reported its first full-year profit at USD 412 million for 2018-19, helped by higher data consumption and Airtel Money penetration. Its revenue increased 5.73 per cent to USD 3,077 million in 2018-19 from USD 2,910 million a year ago. Commenting on the planned offer, Sunil Bharti Mittal Chairman of Airtel Africa, exuded confidence that the company is in a "strong position" to build its own capital market profile. "Since first investing in Africa almost nine years ago, we have well leveraged our expertise in emerging markets to deliver on a clearly-defined strategy to build Airtel Africa into a market leading mobile service provider, increasingly expanding beyond voice into data services and Airtel Money," Mittal said. He further added, "with the recent equity investments into the business by globally recognised long-term investors, we believe that Airtel Africa is in a strong position to build its own capital market profile, allowing others to join us in a real business success story". The new Board of Directors is committed to carry forward the strong legacy of corporate governance of the parent company, Mittal pointed out. Raghunath Mandava, CEO of Airtel Africa said the 14 countries that the company operates in offer strong economic growth potential with young and fast-growing populations, low customer and data penetration and inadequate banking infrastructure. These fast-growing markets provide the company a "great opportunity" to grow both telecom and payments businesses, he added. "Immediately following admission, the company intends to have a free float of at least 25 per cent of the company's issued share capital and expects that it would be eligible for inclusion in the FTSE UK indices. "In addition, it is expected that up to a further 15 per cent of the offer will be made available pursuant to the over-allotment option," the company said in its registration document. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Senior Maharashtra NCP leader Ajit Pawar Tuesday owned up the responsibility for his son Parth's defeat form Maval Lok Sabha constituency in the debut contest. Shiv Sena's Shrirang Barne defeated Parth from the constituency that covers parts of Pune and Raigad districts by a margin of 215913 votes. Analysing the outcome, the former Deputy Chief Minister said the people had made up their minds to see Narendra Modi as prime minister again. "People have given their mandate, we accept it and as Ajit Pawar I am responsible for it," he told reporters when asked about Parth's defeat. He made the remarks after attending the meeting of the constituents of the grand alliance in Maharashtra to discuss the poll results and the way forward. The meeting was attended by leaders of the Congress, Left, Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana, Samajwadi Party and other parties, besides the NCP. Pawar said the Opposition parties should move on now and take steps to see how the Maharashtra Assembly polls could be won. He also said NCP chief Sharad Pawar might meet with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on the issue of drought on Tuesday or Wednesday. In the keenly-fought contest, the NDA won 41 out of total 48 seats in Maharashtra. While the Congress shrunk to just one seat, the Sharad Pawar-led NCP managed to retain its 2014 tally of four seats. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) After being incommunicado for a day, president on Tuesday held a series of meetings with party leaders including his sister Vadra and Rajasthan Chief Minister and his deputy Sachin Pilot amid his insistence on quitting and also rumblings of discontent in the northern state. While Pilot met him earlier and Gehlot followed later, Priyanka was present during their meetings, sources said. Party general secretary and chief spokesperson also held discussions at the residence of the chief, who is adamant on having a non-Gandhi installed as the party head. Gandhi had cancelled all meetings on Monday and had become incommunicado, even though he visited a local hotel in the evening, the sources said. With senior party leaders trying to convince Rahul not to resign, leader and former Rajya Sabha member Pramod Tiwari after meeting the former said, "Instead of resigning, he should seek resignations of leaders at all levels and restructure the party. He also indicated that the CWC resolution, which had turned down his offer of resignation and urged him to revamp and restructure the party at all levels, is all pervasive. Leaders point out that the CWC being the highest decision-making body of the party has already put down in writing in its resolution in its meeting on May 25. Faced with a colossal electoral defeat, the Congress has been riven by internal turmoil. As the party grapples with a severe existential crisis, its governments in both Karnataka and Rajasthan teeter on the brink with reports suggesting the BJP may try to wrest power in both states. Rahul has asked senior party leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Venugopal to rush to Bengaluru to set things right in the state which is faced with dissensions. The Congress drew a blank in Rajasthan as the NDA won all 25 Lok Sabha seats. In Karnataka, where it formed a government with the JD(S) in May last year, the Congress managed to win only one Lok Sabha seat out of 28. On Monday, Rahul cancelled all his appointments for the day and Gehlot could not meet him. After Rahul gave Gehlot a tongue lashing for putting his son above the party at a CWC meeting on Saturday, two days after the Lok Sabha votes were counted, several Rajasthan ministers and MLAs are demanding that accountability be fixed and action taken for the Lok Sabha poll debacle. According to some leaders who attended the Congress Working Committee meeting, Rahul did a lot of "plain-speaking" in his surgical analysis of the role of several party leaders while himself offering to quit as the party president. Ticking-off Gehlot for camping in Jodhpur for his son Vaibhav's election, Rahul said the chief minister spent days campaigning there and neglected the rest of the state. The CWC meeting was held in the backdrop of the Congress winning just 52 Lok Sabha seats and drawing a nought in 18 states and Union Territories. Gandhi himself lost from the family bastion of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, though he won from Wayanad in Kerala. Assyrian Diaspora Seeks to Reconnect With Homeland A group of Assyrians who traveled to Iraq to take part in the GISHRU program and reconnect with their homeland. Posted June 7, 2017. ( Gishru) ERBIL, Iraqi Kurdistan -- Melinda Khubiar was moved to tears as she walked down the streets of Erbil in 2013. She had just landed in the city with a group of 30 Assyrians from around the world, as part of a annual cultural tour organized by GISHRU to communities across northern Iraq and Turkey. "This is where my kings used to walk," she told Al-Monitor. "From the first moment of the trip it hit me that I'm in my homeland." The following two weeks would change her life. After she returned home to Modesto, California, she became more involved in her local Assyrian community, learned the Syriac language and would later make two more trips to Iraq. In 2018, she decided to move to Erbil. GISHRU, which means bridge in Assyrian, started organizing tours for Assyrians, who are an indigenous ethnic group that traces their heritage to ancient Assyria, in 2008. Read the full story here. The Aligarh Muslim University has cancelled the entrance examinations for the Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLISc) and the Master of Business Administration (MBA) programmes which were held on May 23 and 26 respectively. AMU Vice-Chancellor Prof Tariq Mansoor ordered the cancellation of the entrance examinations Monday evening after a racket was busted following the arrest of four people allegedly involved in leaking the question paper of the MBA entrance test held on May 26, an AMU release said Tuesday. Those arrested include a clerk of the university who has been described as the mastermind of the racket. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An army officer died Tuesday after complaining of severe chest pain during patrolling along the Line of Control in Macchil sector in Jammu and Kashmir, an official said. "Maj Rahul Singh of Rashtriya Rifles, deployed along Line of Control, succumbed to the acute chest pain while undergoing medical treatment," an army official said. The official said the officer had complained of severe chest pain during patrolling along the LoC in Macchil Sector in Kupwara district in the afternoon. Further details are awaited. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Peeved at pruning of security to him, Madhya Pradesh Assembly speaker N P Prajapati Tuesday deputed the Assemblys security personnel as guards at his residence. The opposition BJP claimed partial withdrawal of security to Prajapati was a result of "intense infighting" in the ruling Congress on whose ticket he was elected to the Assembly. However, Home Minister Bala Bachchan said the government will soon upgrade Prajapatis security. Bachchan said he has already spoken to Chief Minister Kamal Nath and Prajapati over the issue. As the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha polls came into force on March 10, the state government had reduced security to the Speaker, particularly at his residence, which was left without any guard, his associate said. This did not go down well with the Speaker, who wrote a letter to Principal Secretary, Home Department, a fortnight ago, asking why his security has been reduced, he added. The Speaker had asked the Home Department for redeployment of security personnel alloted to him, the associate said. After the poll code was lifted two days ago, the Speaker deputed Assembly security personnel to guard him, he said. When contacted, Prajapati declined to comment over the issue. "Ask the MP home minister about it," he said. Bachchan told PTI that Prajapatis security will be upgraded soon and he has spoken to Nath about it. The issue would be resolved in twothree days, said the home minister. Prajapati was elected to the Assembly from Gotegaon in Narsinghpur district on a Congress ticket last year. MP Assembly Security Director J K Sharma said two security guards and as many watchmen of the Assembly have been deputed at the speakers residence. "On the Speakers direction, the assembly guards and watchmen have been temporarily stationed at his house," said Sharma. Meanwhile, MP BJP spokesman Rajnish Agrawal said the development was a fall out of "intense infighting" in the Congress after its disastrous showing in the Lok Sabha elections. "This weak government will fall on its own, he said, adding "Now some MLAs are mounting pressure on the government to become ministers." Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargava of the BJP on May 20 wrote a letter to Governor Anandiben Pael, requesting her to convene a special session of the assembly to discuss the problems faced by the state. According to Bhargava, they will seek division (voting) on financial matters in the House. If the Congress-led government fails to scrape through, it will collapse, he had said on Monday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Amid reports of a rift between ruling coalition partners Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) in Karnataka, top Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad and AICC general secretary in-charge of the state K C Venugopal are rushing to Bengaluru to sort things out. Voices of dissent are gaining ground within the Congress as two of its MLAs met former Karnataka chief minister S M Krishna at his Bengaluru residence on Sunday. The coalition government in the southern state has been fragile since its inception with reports of its collapse surfacing every then and now. Following the drubbing of the Congress-JD(S) combine in the just-concluded Lok Sabha election, where the two parties managed to win only one seat each in Karnataka, a senior Congress leader has claimed that the state government will collapse after June 10. Of the 28 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka, the BJP bagged 25 and an Independent candidate won one. Two Congress MLAs -- Ramesh Jarkiholi and Sudhakar -- met BJP leaders at Krishna's residence, though they later claimed that their visit was not political. Sources said Azad and Venugopal, two central leaders of the Congress, were going to Karnataka to placate the disgruntled state leaders, amid reports that the state unit of the party has convened a meeting of the Congress Legislature Party on May 29. Azad and Venugopal are likely to hold discussions with the top leaders of the party in the state in order to sort things out. The BJP, with 105 members, is the single-largest party in the 225-member Karnataka Assembly. The ruling coalition has 117 members -- 79 of the Congress, 37 of the JD(S) and one of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The presidents of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Kyrgyzstan on Tuesday were among a host of foreign dignitaries who confirmed their attendance at Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony for a second term on Thursday. The prime ministers of Nepal, Mauritius and Bhutan as well as special envoy of Thailand have also conveyed to India about their participation at the event, the Ministry of External Affairs said. It said the government has also invited leaders of the (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) countries for the swearing-in ceremony. "The following leaders have confirmed their participation at the swearing in ceremony of the Prime Minister: Md. Abdul Hamid, President of Bangladesh; Maithripala Sirisena, President of Sri Lanka; Sooronbay Jeenbekov, President of the Kyrgyz Republic; U Win Myint, President of Myanmar," it said in a statement. Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Nepal's Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Bhutan Lotay Tshering, and Special Envoy of Thailand Grisada Boonrach have also confirmed their attendance, the MEA said. "We look forward to receiving the dignitaries in New Delhi for the ceremony. We will keep you abreast of any related developments, including bilateral engagements, in due course," the MEA added. Bangladesh has put its police force on alert after the Islamic State claimed responsibility for a bomb blast that targeted security forces here. A woman police officer and two others were injured when a powerful bomb went off near a police pick-up van in the capital's Malibagh intersection on Sunday night. Islamic State claimed responsibility, with its propaganda wing Amaq saying the IS militants targeted the police vehicle with an "explosive device". Bangladesh police spokesperson Sohel Rana, however, said that no connection between the IS and the attack has been ascertained yet. "The bomb attack is currently being investigated," he said in a statement adding, The matter of Islamic State's claim of responsibility (for the blast) has come to sight. But no connection between IS and the attack has been ascertained yet, he said. All units of Bangladesh Police have been directed to take cautionary measures following the bomb blast. The government has consistently ruled out the presence of the dreaded terror group in the Muslim-majority nation though experts have been maintaining that series of brutal attacks on minorities and secular activists had the hallmarks of ISIS group. Bangladesh launched a crackdown on Islamist militants following the July 2016 terror attack in which terrorists stormed a Dhaka cafe and killed 22 people, including 18 foreigners, by firing indiscriminately. The ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack. In a nationwide raids since then, the security forces have killed around 100 terrorists and detained several others. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid will attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in on May 30 during his three-day visit to India, a top presidential palace official said Tuesday. Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Huq will accompany the President as the senior most Cabinet member of the Bangladesh government, officials said. For a second time, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will not be able to represent Bangladesh at her Indian counterpart Modi's swearing-in as she will be on a three-nation foreign visit, the officials said. She could not attend the previous swearing-in ceremony of Modi in 2014 as she was abroad then too. Last time, Parliament Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury attended Modi's swearing-in. A Bangabhaban presidential palace spokesman said: "The senior most member of the current Cabinet, Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Huq, will accompany the Honourable President during his three-day India visit from May 29 to 31". During his visit, the President would pay a courtesy call on his Indian counterpart Ram Nath Kovind, Hamid's press secretary Joynal Abedin said. Hasina overnight rescheduled a 12-day tri-nation overseas tour without a 12-hour stopover in New Delhi where she was expected to have a meeting with her counterpart Modi on June 8. Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Hasina was one of the first foreign leaders to congratulate Modi following his election victory, reflecting the "extraordinarily close and cordial ties" between India and Bangladesh, and the excellent rapport that the two leaders enjoy. She also spoke to Modi last Thursday and said this "emphatic verdict is a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed on you by the people of the world's largest democracy. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Lisa Ray says she does not like being boxed into a certain identity and this is why being known as a sex symbol at the age of 16 still haunts her. The actor, who released her memoir "Close to the Bone", hopes people will understand her better after reading about her journey. "I hate to be labelled and put into boxes but I had to deal with it since a young age because I was a sex symbol at the age of 16. It was completely unanticipated. "To suddenly become this figure for an entire nation and on top of that, to look much older, that has haunted me my entire life up until now," she told reporters. The model-actor, who overcame multiple myeloma, a cancer of the white blood cells, said the book should not be read just as a cancer memoir because it gives a glimpse into her journey right from the beginning of her fame. "A lot of people will understand how I have this ambivalent relationship with my career, how I am an accidental actress, how I always had one foot in and one foot out of it and how I believe that I have been underestimated only because of the way I look. Although, I don't believe they shouldn't be at odds with each other." The Indo-Candian actor, 47, said while at the peak of her career, she was grappling through a personal tragedy as her mother had met with an accident, leaving her wheelchair-bound. "I understood at a very young age - I was 16 then - that all the aspects that you call success -- name, fame and money -- they don't solve the questions of the soul. "So, my ambitions became different. My goal wasn't to become famous. That explains a lot of my choices, all the projects I said no to because I really understood that my answers were not waiting at the end of it." Lisa, who featured in films like "Water" and "Kasoor", said a part of her would have been "extinguished" by "conforming to mainstream standards. The actor said "Close to the Bone", published by Harper Collins, may have begun as a starting point to talk about her disease but it gave her a chance to talk about her life. "I do cover my cancer experiences but that come much later. Having said that, cancer was the launching pad for writing this memoir because initially that's why I was approached to write this... "When I sat down and thought about it, I realised that I couldn't write about my disease in isolation from the rest of my life because everything is connected with what came before. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Stake of Airtel promoter group firm Bharti Telecom has come down to 41.24 per cent following renouncement of 11.34 crore shares by the entity valued at around Rs 3,920 crore and Rs 25,000-crore rights issue, according to the updated shareholding of the company. Sunil Bharti Mittal family and Singapore telecom firm Singtel-owned firm Bharti Telecom held 50.1 per cent stake with 211.62 shares in Bharti Airtel at the end of March 2019. Bharti Telecom shareholding dropped to Rs 200.28 crore in May disclosure by Bharti Airtel. According to sources, Bharti Telecom renounced shares for the Singapore government and the Monetary Authority of Singapore and foreign-based promoter group firm Indian Continent Investment Limited (ICIL). However, it cannot be ascertained the exact number of shares that Bharti Airtel transacted to the entities GIC Pvt Ltd, on behalf of the Government of Singapore and the Monetary Authority of Singapore, has made a commitment of Rs 5,000 crore during the rights issue programme. At the time of the Rs 25,000-crore rights issue, the company allocated shares for Rs 220 a unit. The Singapore government entities now jointly hold over 24.73 crore shares. Based on stock closing price of Rs 345.65 a unit on the BSE on Tuesday, the value of shares allocated to Singapore government entities now stands at around Rs 8,550 crore and accounts for 4.82 per cent stake in the Indian telecom firm. ICIL holding in Airtel increased 25 crore shares, valued at around Rs 8,651 crore based on stock closing price, to 33.14 crore units in May from 8.11 crore at the end of March 2019. Responding to an e-mail query, Bharti Airtel said, "As stated in our letter of offer, the promoter group amongst themselves, have subscribed to their aggregate entitlement except to the extent of 227,272,727 shares renounced in favour of GIC Private Limited. Bharti Telecom Limited and Indian Continent Investment are part of the promoter group." Airtel had announced the rights issue to raise up to Rs 25,000 crore through issuance of fully paid-up shares at a price of Rs 220 per share, and additional Rs 7,000 crore through a foreign currency perpetual bond issue. It opened on May 3 and closed on May 17, 2019. While the offer price was fixed at Rs 220 per share, the Bharti Airtel scrip ended at Rs 328.20 apiece on the BSE, 0.84 per cent higher than the previous close, on the day the rights issue closed. Earlier this month, Bharti Airtel reported a surprise 29 per cent surge in the March quarter net profit as exceptional income gains and Africa business helped offset losses in India mobile services operations. The company, whose profitability has been battered by intense price competition posed by richest Indian Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Jio, earned a net profit of Rs 107.2 crore in January-March as against Rs 82.9 crore it earned in the same period of the previous fiscal. This marked the first rise in profit after several quarters for the company. Its revenue soared 6.2 per cent to Rs 20,602.2 crore for the three months ended March 31, 2019. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Delhi Jal Board meeting was deferred after BJP members vociferously protested over the AAP government's alleged failure to deal with the "worsening" water crisis in the city. Rejecting the charge, DJB Vice Chairman and AAP MLA Dinesh Mohania said the meeting was deferred because the members complained that the agenda was circulated late and they did not have enough time to go through it. "The chief minister took to task the DJB officials for circulating the agenda on Saturday night, while the meeting was scheduled on Monday. The members did not find enough time to go through the voluminous agenda which ran into over 300 pages," Mohania said. DJB member and BJP councillor from Sadar Bazar Jai Prakash claimed that the meeting lead into commotion. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was also present at the meeting. The board will meet again at 11 am on Wednesday, DJB sources said. Several areas in the national capital every summer face water crisis. "It's peak summer and the government has no plan to tackle the worsening water crisis in areas such as Kirari, Sangam Vihar, Chandni Chowk and localities across the Yamuna river. They (AAP government) have been saying these areas will get water, but nothing has happened so far," Prakash said. "At a meeting held earlier, we had also brought to their notice leakages in drinking water pipelines at more than a 100 places in Delhi. If they plug these leakages, a lot of water can be saved and given to those who need it," he said. Satpal Malik, another BJP councillor and member of the DJB, said his party was demanding action against officials for allegedly giving tenders to black-listed firms. Prakash said the BJP is seeking to corner the AAP government on the issue at the meeting on Wednesday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Delhi Jal Board meeting was deferred after BJP members vociferously protested over the AAP government's alleged failure to deal with the "worsening" water crisis in the city. BJP leaders on the board had asked some "tough questions" to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who heads the DJB, during its meeting on Monday, the saffron party's councillor from Sadar Bazar, Jai Prakash, told PTI Tuesday. The meeting plunged into commotion and Kejriwal left soon after. The board will meet again at 11 am on Wednesday, DJB sources said. Several areas in the national capital every summer face water crisis. "It's peak summer and the government has no plan to tackle the worsening water crisis in areas such as Kirari, Sangam Vihar, Chandni Chowk and localities across the Yamuna river. They (AAP government) have been saying these areas will get water but nothing has happened so far," Prakash said. "At a meeting held earlier, we had also brought to their notice leakages in drinking water pipelines at more than a hundred places in Delhi. If they plug these leakages, a lot of water can be saved and given to those who need it," he said. These meetings are not meant to pass resolutions, they are meant to prepare definite plans to ensure water supply in unauthorised colonies, JJ clusters and villages, Prakash said. Citing a report, the BJP councilor alleged that the DJB gave tenders to 17 private companies blacklisted by its vigilance department. "It's waste of public money," he said. The Delhi government's anti-corruption branch has booked the 17 firms and DJB engineers after payment worth around Rs 5 crore was allegedly released to these companies despite them failing to deliver equipment and services. Prakash said the BJP is seeking to corner the AAP government on the issue at the meeting on Wednesday. AAP MLA Alka Lamba told PTI that a number of party MLAs had a few days ago conveyed their concerns over the acute water shortage in the national capital to the chief minister in their private WhatsApp group. Lamba said the MLAs rued that their poll campaign got affected as they devoted most of their time tackling water woes in their areas. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Maharashtra Congress chief Ashok Chavan Tuesday said the BJP was trying to woo Congress and NCP legislators to join the ruling party, but it won't succeed in its efforts. Chavan made the comments when asked about reports related to senior party leader Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil's impending entry into the BJP along with some Congress MLAs. Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil's son, Sujay, joined the BJP in March and since then speculation is rife that the former minister, too, will enter the saffron fold. "Technically, he (Vikhe Patil) is still the member of the Congress. It is likely he may join the ruling party. I don't think our MLAs will join the BJP," Chavan told reporters here. "The BJP is trying to poach Congress or NCP MLAs. But I don't think it will happen, we are being alert," he added. The Congress leader made the remarks after a meeting of Maharashtra's grand alliance constituents here. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A critically ill boy died after he was allegedly refused an ambulance by the state-run district hospital here. A probe by the city magistrate has found the hospital guilty of lapses in the death of the child on Sunday night. Afroz, 9, was brought to the district hospital in Shahjahanpur with complaints of high fever and was referred to Lucknow for specialised treatment. His parents said they had approached the hospital for an ambulance to ferry Afroz to the state capital, but the authorities did not agree to their request. Afroz's mother said they had given him some medicines for fever but his condition worsened, and they got him admitted at the Shahjahanpur district hospital. "The doctors told us to go somewhere else, saying there were no facilities available in this hospital," she said. The boy's father said, "We requested the ambulance driver and other staff to take all the money we have, but they refused. He said three ambulances were parked at the hospital at the time. The couple then began walking home, carrying the child. Afroz died on the way home. District Magistrate Amrit Tripathi Tuesday visited the hospital and ordered a probe. "After the incident came to my notice, the city magistrate was asked to probe incident," he said. The probe found the hospital guilty, he said. "The hospital administration could not provide any evidence that ambulance or hearse vehicle was not present there. The report of the entire incident has been sent to the state government," Tripathi said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) on Tuesday asked Karnataka to release 9.19 thousand million cubic (TMC) water to the lower riparian states for June. The decision to release the water was taken by the CWMA which was attended by the representatives of the Centre and the riparian states -- Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Puducherry. "The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) has taken a decision for the release of 9.19 TMC of water by Karantaka at the Biligundlu site for June this year," S Masood Husain, the chairman of the CWMA. Several parts of Tamil Nadu are grappling with acute water shortage. The Centre had last week also issued a drought advisory to the state in the backdrop of depleting water levels in its reservoirs. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A day after ADG CID failed to appear for questioning in connection with the Saradha scam, the CBI Tuesday sent some "documents" to his office, sources said. The documents were submitted at Kumar's office at Bhawani Bhawan in the southern part of Kolkata by CBI officials, they said without elaborating. "This is not a summons but some necessary documents in connection with an investigation," a source said, dismissing reports that fresh summons were issued to the officer. Kumar, a former commissioner, had skipped a meeting with CBI officials on Monday despite being summoned by the agency for questioning in connection with the scam. He is now serving as additional director general of police in the CID. In the morning, CBI officials had visited the residence of lawyer Y J Dastoor apparently for legal consultations on the matter. On Saturday, the CBI had also issued a lookout notice against Kumar to prevent him from leaving the country. The agency wanted custodial interrogation of Kumar in connection with the scam as he was heading the police's special investigation team to probe the case before the CBI took over. Last month, the CBI had told the that Kumar's custodial interrogation was necessary as he was not cooperating in the probe and was "evasive" and "arrogant" in answering the queries put to him during questioning. On May 17, the apex court withdrew protection from arrest given to Kumar and asked the CBI to proceed as per law. It gave a week's time to Kumar to approach the competent court for anticipatory bail. Kumar again approached the top court last Monday, seeking extension of the protection and saying the courts in were not functioning due to a lawyers' strike. His petition was rejected, following which he moved an anticipatory bail plea in the Barasat court. As part of the Rs 2,500 crore scam, the Saradha group of companies duped lakhs of customers, promising higher rates of returns on their investment, the CBI had said. The multi-crore scheme scam by the Saradha group of companies, which had duped lakhs of customers promising higher rates of returns on their investment, the CBI had said. The CBI has summoned two officials of West Bengal Police in connection with its probe into Saradha chit fund scam on Wednesday, officials said. Arnab Ghosh, the then Deputy Commissioner (detective department) of Bidhannagar Commissionerate, and senior police official Dilip Hazra have been summoned for questioning at CBI's Kolkata office, they said. Both the officers were part of the West Bengal Police Special Investigation team which probed the Saradha ponzi scam, officials said. The agency had summoned former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar for questioning on Monday, but he did not appear before the agency. He told the CBI that he was on leave. No new notice has been issued to Kumar, a 1989-batch IPS officer, who had headed the SIT in the case, they said. As part of the Rs 2,500 crore scam, the Saradha group of companies duped lakhs of customers, promising higher rates of returns on their investment, the CBI had said. Its promoter Sudipta Sen was arrested from Sonmarg in Kashmir in 2013, it said. Similar modus operandi was adopted by other ponzi companies like Rose Valley operating in West Bengal, Odisha and north eastern states where gullible investors were duped, officials added. The Supreme Court had ordered CBI probe into the scam wherein the probe agency has allegedly detected a collusion of scheme operators, police personnel, politicians among others. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) All central government departments have been asked to make public the details of compassionate appointments under consideration on their website, a senior official said Tuesday. The move comes following an order by the Central Information Commission (CIC) in this regard. The Ministry of Personnel had on May 20 issued an order to all central government departments seeking compliance of the directive of the CIC. The commission, while hearing a case, observed that a voluntary disclosure of all information that ought to be displayed in the public domain should be the rule and members of public who having to seek information should be an exception. "An open government, which is the cherished objective of the RTI Act, can be realised only if all public offices comply with proactive disclosure norms," it said in the order. Section 4(2) of the RTI Act mandates every public authority to provide as much information suo-motu to the public at regular intervals through various means of communications, including the Internet, so that the public need not resort to the use of the RTI Act, the transparency watchdog said. "The Commission felt that details on compassionate appointment which were in a waiting list of all the ministries and autonomous institutions under the Government of India and policy/directives relating to compassionate appointment, etc. should be suo-motu uploaded on their website to facilitate access to information and efficaciousness of the RTI Act," it said. After hearing submissions made from all concerned, the commission said such information should be displayed on the website of each of the institutions governed by the DoPT under the personnel ministry for the benefit of employees and public at large. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) China is running five-day Confucian culture immersion courses for religious leaders in the sage's hometown as part of a campaign to extend government control over faith communities through a process of sinicisation. The ruling Communist Party's United Work Front Department said in a release issued Monday that the activity was designed to ensure the primacy of traditional Chinese values above all. President Xi Jinping has been cracking down on religious practices, especially those seen as foreign such as Christianity and Islam, while elevating home-grown Confucianism, whose values have underpinned Chinese culture for centuries. While for decades the officially atheistic Communist Party attacked Confucius as a symbol of feudalism, he has been thoroughly rehabilitated in recent years as a means of rallying patriotism and countering foreign influences. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) After more than a decade of rapid growth, Chinese travel to the U.S. is falling. And that has cities, malls and other tourist spots scrambling to reverse the trend. Travel from China to the U.S. fell 5.7% in 2018 to 2.9 million visitors, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office, which collects data from U.S. Customs forms. It was the first time since 2003 that Chinese travel to the U.S. slipped from the prior year. Friction between the U.S. and China is one reason for the slowdown. The Trump administration first imposed tariffs on Chinese solar panels and washing machines in January 2018, and the trade war has escalated from there. The U.S. now has a 25 per cent tariff on USD 200 billion worth of Chinese imports, while China has retaliated with tariffs on USD 60 billion of U.S. imports. Last summer, China issued a travel warning for the U.S., telling its citizens to beware of shootings, robberies and high costs for medical care. The U.S. shot back with its own warning about travel to China. Wang Haixia, who works at an international trade company in Beijing, traveled to the U.S. in May for her sister's graduation. She and her family planned to spend 10 days in Illinois and New York. Wang says she might have stayed longer but doesn't want to contribute to the U.S. economy amid the trade war. "I cannot cancel this trip because I promised my sister I would go to her commencement," she said. "My relatives will contribute more than 100,000 yuan to America just staying for 10 days, and that's enough." There are other reasons behind the slowdown. Economic uncertainty in China has travelers at the lower end of the market vacationing closer to home, says Wolfgang Georg Arlt, director of the Chinese Outbound Tourism Research Institute, which found that 56 per cent of travelers leaving China in the last three months of 2018 went to Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan compared with 50 per cent in 2017. Those who do travel farther are seeking out more exotic destinations like Croatia, Morocco and Nepal. Chinese travel to the U.S. had already been moderating from its breakneck pace earlier this decade. In 2000, 249,000 Chinese visited the U.S. That tripled to 802,000 by 2010, then tripled again by 2015, in part because of higher incomes, better long-haul flight connections and an easing of visa restrictions, according to McKinsey, the consulting firm. The U.S. welcomed more than 3 million Chinese visitors in 2016 and 2017. But year-over-year growth edged up just 4 per cent in 2017, the slowest pace in more than a decade. Most industry-watchers agree that any downturn is temporary, since China's middle class will only continue to expand. The U.S. government forecasts Chinese tourism will grow 2% this year to 3.3 million visitors, and will reach 4.1 million visitors in 2023. "Even if the Chinese economy cools, it's still going to continue to be a very good source of growth for the travel industry," said David Huether, senior vice president of research for the U.S. Travel Association. In general, international travel to the U.S. has been declining. Overall data for 2018 hasn't been released yet, but international travel fell 2% in 2016 and was flat in 2017. But because China commands some of the highest tourism traffic to the U.S., any falloff will be felt by destinations that have come to rely on Chinese spending power. In 2017, the country had the fifth highest number of U.S.-bound tourists, behind Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Japan. Ten years earlier, China wasn't even on the top 10 list, falling behind countries like Germany, France, South Korea and Australia, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office. China didn't crack the top 10 list until 2011 and has been climbing ever since. Spending by Chinese visitors which doesn't include students ballooned more than 600 per cent between 2008 and 2016, to nearly $18.9 billion. In 2017, that fell by 1 per cent to USD 18.8 billion, or about 12% of overall tourism spending. To hold onto those dollars, experts say the tourism industry must do more to keep up with Chinese travelers and their changing needs. Larry Yu, a professor of hospitality management at George Washington University, notes that Chinese tourists particularly younger ones are increasingly planning trips using social media apps like WeChat and are less likely to book through big tour groups. They have also rapidly adopted smartphone-based payment systems. Destinations should invest in those technologies now if they want to continue attracting Chinese tourists, says David Becker, former CEO of Attract China, a New York-based travel consultancy. "A lot of companies looked at the Chinese market as easy money, but we have to be relevant to the Chinese," Becker said. Attract China, for instance, has helped luxury stores in Manhattan incorporate Jeenie, a live translation app, and add Alipay and WeChat Pay for mobile payments. Others have also been stepping up their efforts. The Beverly Center mall in Los Angeles used to cater to busloads of Chinese tourists. Now, it's focusing on small groups of less than 10 VIP shoppers, says Susan Vance, the mall's marketing and sponsorship director. The mall has also pushed stores to offer China UnionPay, a digital payment service. More than 100 stores now have it, Vance says, up from three in 2014. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan visited Lahore as part of his trip to promote economic cooperation with the Punjab province, the largest and most developed region of Pakistan. He reached the provincial metropolis on Monday on a two-day trip to meet officials and visit Chinese investment centers in the province. Wang visited the Haier-Ruba Economic Zone in Lahore along with Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing and Consul General Long Dingbin on Monday. The Haier-Ruba zone, a major player in the domestic market, sells various consumer products. Wang also met Chief Minister Usman Buzdar and discussed how to increase cooperation with Punjab. The senior Chinese leader said that his government would welcome an economic cooperation between the Punjab government and the big provinces of China. Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar, who hosted dinner in the honour of Wang, said a new era of cooperation has started between Pakistan and China with his visit. Wang, a member of the politburo of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC), also visited Taxila archaeological museum where Buddhist artefacts from Gandhara civilisation are preserved. The senior Chinese leader, who arrived in Pakistan on Sunday for a three-day visit, met President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan. Various agreements have been signed in Islamabad after delegation-level talks between the two sides. The Pakistani officials said that the visit would expedite the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The CPEC, launched in 2015, is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Delhi court will pronounce on June 1 its order on whether to grant bail to Sushen Mohan Gupta, an alleged defence agent arrested in the money laundering case related to the AgustaWestland VVIP choppers scam. Special Judge Arvind Kumar reserved order after hearing arguments from the accused as well as the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Senior advocate Siddhartha Luthra, appearing for Gupta, said the accused had always cooperated with the investigation and will be available as and when required by the probe agency as he has deep roots in India. The application was opposed by ED's special public prosecutors D P Singh ad N K Matta, who said the probe was at a initial stage and if granted the relief, the accused may flee from justice and hamper the investigation. The agency on May 22 filed a supplementary charge sheet against Gupta, who was arrested by the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act and is currently in judicial custody. There was clinching evidence of Gupta's role in the chopper scam as well as in various other defence deals, agency's advocate Samvedna Verma had told the court. According to the ED, Gupta's role in the case came to light on the basis of disclosures made by Rajeev Saxena, who turned approver in the case after he was deported from the UAE and arrested by the agency. It is suspected that Gupta has in his possession payment details of the Rs 3,600-crore deal to purchase AgustaWestland VVIP choppers. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The chorus of voices urging Rahul Gandhi not to quit as Congress president grows louder with leaders of the party and also allies DMK and the RJD on Tuesday saying he remains the "best and competent" person to pull the party out of the crisis after the Lok Sabha poll debacle. Adding to the voices in the opposition UPA against Gandhi's offer to resign, Tamil superstar Rajinikanth said the Congress chief should stay on as he was a "youngster" and perhaps not got the cooperation of senior party leaders. DMK chief M K Stalin appealed to Gandhi not to step down, saying he has won the hearts of the people though his party lost the elections while RJD supremo Lalu Prasad termed the offer to quit as "suicidal", asserting it would amount to "falling into the BJP's trap". Stalin spoke to Gandhi over phone and "appealed to him to give up the idea of resigning as party president", a DMK statement said in Chennai. After his party's colossal electoral defeat, Gandhi offered to quit on May 25 during a meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), which unanimously rejected his offer and authorised him to overhaul and restructure the party at all levels. Gandhi is reported to be insisting on his resignation and adamant on having a non-Gandhi installed as the party head. As senior Congress leaders made a determined bid to convince Gandhi to withdraw his resignation, Shashi Tharoor, who scored an electoral hat-trick by winning from the Thiruvanathapuram Lok Sabha seat, said Gandhi has led the party from the front and still has far more to offer to the party. Congress bagged 52 seats, marginally up from 44 secured in 2014. Asked about Gandhi's offer to resign and if he was still Congress' best bet in terms of leadership, Tharoor said attempts in the media to pin all the blame for the party's electoral setback on his shoulders are simplistic and unfair. "While Rahulji has bravely taken full responsibility for the defeat, we all are responsible for what went wrong and we all have a responsibility to ensure the party's revival," Tharoor told PTI in Delhi. Gandhi will easily beat any other interested candidate by a landslide if the party decides to hold a free and fair election tomorrow for the position of party president, the former union minister claimed. "That is the kind of place he has built in the hearts of the rank and file of the Congress party and therefore, to my mind, he still undoubtedly remains the best person to help rally the party out of the predicament it finds itself in and help us collectively move forward," Tharoor added. Delhi Congress chief Sheila Dikshit, a former chief minister, appealed to Gandhi to withdraw his decision, saying the party has bounced back in the past from challenging circumstances to emerge triumphant. Another Congress leader Pramod Tiwari after meeting Gandhi said, "Instead of resigning, he should seek resignations of leaders at all levels and restructure the party." M Veerappa Moily, also of the Congress, termed the poll setback as a "passing phase". Describing Gandhi as the "inspiration" for the party, Moily said it was not appropriate for him to quit his post. "Just because (Narendra) Modi has won...that is not a criteria to leave the presidentship. After all, ups and downs are common for the Congress party. We have seen them many a time," he told PTI in Hyderabad. Stating that Gandhi should not insist on his resignation, he said he should "continue to guide the destiny of the party and the nation". "Apart from legacy, on his own personality, he is the most competent person to lead the party," Moily said. During his telephonic conversation with Gandhi, Stalin told him though the Congress party has suffered defeat in the Lok Sabha polls, "you have won the hearts of the people". The DMK-led front in Tamil Nadu won 37 of the 38 Lok Sabha seats. The election in the Vellore parliamentary constituency was cancelled by the EC citing abuse of money power. Lalu Prasad said Gandhi's offer to step down will not only be suicidal for his party but for all the social and political forces battling against the Sangh Parivar. Prasad said this in an analysis of the Lok Sabha poll results, published in an English daily, the link of which he shared on his Twitter handle. Any new president of the Congress would be considered as a puppet of Rahul and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and the perception would continue till the next general election, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) president said. The moment someone outside the Gandhi-Nehru family replaces Rahul Gandhi, the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah brigade would paint the new leader as a "puppet" remote-controlled by him and his mother Sonia Gandhi, he said. Why should Rahul Gandhi give such an opportunity to his political detractors? Prasad asked. "Rahul's offer to resign suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India," he said in a tweet. Asked by reporters in Chennai to comment on Gandhi's offer to resign, Rajnikanth said, "He should not resign." "I won't say he lacks leadership qualities. The thing is it is very really difficult to handle the Congress party, it is an age-old party where senior-most people are there.""As a youngster it is difficult to handle the senior-most people. Even I think, my observation is, the senior Congress leaders -- they had not cooperated well. They had not worked hard," he said. There was no need for Gandhi to resign as an opposition party was as important as the ruling one in a democracy, the veteran star added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A civilian, who was shot at and injured by suspected militants in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, has succumbed to injuries, police said on Tuesday. Militants Monday night fired at and injured a civilian identified as Abdul Majeed Shah, a resident of Babagund area of Langate in the north Kashmir district, a police official said. He said Shah was rushed to a hospital in a critical condition, but succumbed to injuries later. Police have registered a case, the official said, adding a hunt has been launched to trace the assailants. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least 42 inmates were killed in clashes in four prisons in northern Brazil on Monday, authorities said, a day after violence in one of the jails left 15 people dead. At least 27 of the victims were in the Antonio Trindade Penal Institute near Manaus, the capital of Amazonas state, where all four prisons are located. The federal government said it was sending reinforcements to boost security in the state's prisons. Brazil has the world's third largest prison population, with 7,26,712 inmates as of June 2016, according to official statistics. The population is double the capacity of the nation's prisons, which in the same year was estimated to be 3,68,049 inmates. Along with severe overcrowding, Brazil's prisons are plagued by gang violence, while riots and breakout attempts are not uncommon. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Muslim cleric has filed a police complaint against Pakistan's Minister for Science and Technology Fawad Chaudhry, alleging that he had deliberately violated norms of Islam and Sharia by introducing a moon-sighting calendar. Chaudhry Sunday launched Pakistan's first ever moon-sighting website - pakmoonsighting.pk - in a bid to end controversy over the start of key lunar months that decides the beginning of the holy month of Ramazan and Eid festivals. Mufti Inamul Haq has filed a complaint with the Secretariat Police Station here, alleging that Chaudhry had deliberately violated norms of Islam and Sharia by introducing a moon-sighting calendar, Dawn reported. In the complaint, it is stated that the minister had also used derogatory remarks against the religious figures and hurt the sentiments of the masses. Haq has requested the Secretariat Police to lodge a First Information Report against the minister. The website features sections such as Islamic calendar for the next five years, a day-to-day lunar calendar against dates from the Gregorian calendar, and the dates on which the first day of every lunar month will fall. Pakistan has been facing controversies on key religious occasions like start of Ramazan and Eid as religious leader from different regions differ on sighting of the moon. Chaudhry's plan has been opposed by most of the clerics who insist that sighting of moon with naked eye is essential. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Commercial flights are likely to start operations from the Hindon airport near Delhi by the end of June as the Ministry of Defence has given all requisite approvals, said a senior official of the (AAI). Hindon airport, which is around 40 kms from the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, belongs to the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the AAI has developed the civil enclave there. "The Ministry of Defence has approved the proposal of Ghodawat Enterprises for operation of RCS (regional air connectivity scheme) flights from Hindon airport....These RCS flights are likely to commence by end of June this year," the AAI official told PTI. Ghodawat Enterprises run the airline brand Star Air that is headquartered in Bengaluru. Under the Civil Aviation Ministry's regional air connectivity scheme -- UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) -- many airline operators including IndiGo have bagged routes connecting from Hindon. "However, the Ministry of Defence has approved the proposal of Ghodawat Enterprises, which runs Star Air, only as yet," said another AAI official. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 8 had inaugurated the new civil enclave at Hindon airport from where commercial flights would be operated. The civil enclave, which cost around Rs 40 crore, can handle 300 passengers during peak hours. The airport infrastructure was developed by the AAI while the approach road to the airport was constructed by the Uttar Pradesh government. The operations were expected to begin from March 15 itself. However, discussions with the Indian Air Force regarding slots took a long time. Puducherry LG Kiran Bedi told the Supreme Court Tuesday that confusion was prevailing over the functioning of bureaucracy due to the Madras High Court order on the issue of administrative control in the Union Territory. Bedi has moved the apex court challenging the Madras High Court verdict which held that Puducherry Lieutenant Governor (LG) "cannot interfere" in the day-to-day affairs of the UT's elected government. A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Aniruddha Bose said it will hear the plea next week. At the outset, counsel appearing for Bedi told the bench that "there was confusion prevailing over the functioning of bureaucracy in the Union Territory since the Madras High Court verdict". On May 10, the apex court on pleas of Centre and Bedi had sought response from Congress MLA K Laksminarayanan, on whose plea the high court had passed the verdict on April 30. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, had told the bench that the high court verdict should be stayed as governance has come to a standstill because of the order. The high court had set aside two communications, issued in January and June 2017 by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, "elevating" the powers 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 the 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 plea 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.) Congress chief Rahul Gandhi had a series of visitors on Tuesday with his sister Vadra as well as Rajasthan's ruling duo and Sachin Pilot calling on him amid rumblings of discontent in the state and his insistence on quitting. Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Pilot met Gandhi at his residence here followed by Chief Minister Gehlot. Congress general secretary was present during the discussions, party insiders said. The party's chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala and general secretary K C Venugopal also met the party president at his Tughlaq Lane home. It is not immediately known what transpired at the meetings. All senior leaders since Saturday have been trying to convince Rahul Gandhi to take back his resignation, but he seems to be adamant about going ahead with his decision to step down as party president. Faced with a colossal electoral defeat, the Congress has been riven by internal turmoil. As the party grapples with a severe existential crisis, its governments in both Karnataka and Rajasthan teeter on the brink with reports suggesting the BJP may try to wrest power in both states. The Congress drew a blank in Rajasthan as the NDA won all 25 Lok Sabha seats. In Karnataka, where it formed a government with the JD(S) in May last year, the Congress managed to win only one Lok Sabha seat out of 28. On Monday, Rahul Gandhi cancelled all his appointments for the day and Gehlot could not meet him. After Rahul Gandhi gave Gehlot a tongue lashing for putting his son above the party at a CWC meeting on Saturday, two days after the Lok Sabha votes were counted, several Rajasthan ministers and MLAs are demanding that accountability be fixed and action taken for the Lok Sabha poll debacle. According to some leaders who attended the Congress Working Committee meeting, Gandhi did a lot of "plain-speaking" in his surgical analysis of the role of several party leaders while himself offering to quit as the party president. Ticking-off Gehlot for camping in Jodhpur for his son Vaibhav's election, Gandhi said the chief minister spent days campaigning extensively for his son in Jodhpur and neglected the rest of the state. The CWC meeting was held in the backdrop of the Congress winning just 52 Lok Sabha seats and drawing a nought in 18 states and Union Territories. Gandhi himself lost from the family bastion of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, though he won from Wayanad in Kerala. Congress leader A P Abdullakutty has courted controversy by praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the BJP-led NDA's massive victory in the Lok Sabha election, prompting the party to seek an explanation from him. Pointing out that the victory was acceptance of Modi's development agenda, he said the secret of the PM's success was that he had adopted Gandhian values. He also hailed the centre's Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (SBA), which envisages cleaning up India's cities, towns and rural areas and to eliminate open defecation through construction of household-owned and community owned toilets. The congress leader also lauded the Ujjwala Yojana in which the government's aim was to distribute 50 million LPG connections to women of BPL families. In a Facebook post, titled "On Narendra Modi's impressive victory", Abdullakutty said not only the opposition, but even those inside the BJP have been taken by surprise at the saffron party's massive victory. All political workers should keep their feelings apart, and keenly take a look at the results in a "calm and impartial manner," he said. Abdullakutty, who had been sacked from CPI(M) in 2009 for violating party discipline for praising Modi while he was the Gujarat chief minister, had served as MP from Kannur in 1999 and 2004. He later joined the Congress. "Mahatma Gandhi had told social workers that when you formulate a policy, you should remember the face of a poor man whom you have met. Modi implemented it accurately," Abdullakutty said. The centre's flagship SBA project helped 9.16 crore families get their own toilets and the Ujjwala scheme enabled 6 crore BPL families get free LPG connections, he said. "Once, we cross Kerala border, what we see is independent India's most pathetic sight-- open defecation by the poor of the country. Modi, to a certain extent, gave justice to them. The free LPG connections was a huge relief to 6 crore BPL mothers, who until then, used dried cowdung and wood in their kitchens...," he said. Smart cities, bullet trains and many other dream projects were brought into Modi's political agenda and one cannot turn a blind eye to these facts, the two-time former MP said. "Our is changing completely. Victory is with development. When Modi is criticised, these facts should be remembered," he said in the post. Meanwhile, Congress' Kerala president Mullapally Ramachandran Tuesday said the party will seek an explanation from Abdullakutty on his Modi praise. "My opinion is strong action should be taken against him," he told reporters here. Dismissing the remarks, senior Congress leader K Muraleedharan, who was recently elected to the Lok Sabha, said the act of praising Modi by any congress worker cannot be accepted and was wrong. "There is no compromise on this matter," he said. State youth congress president Dean Kuriakose, who won the Lok Sabha polls from Idukki, also came out against Abdullakutty's remarks. Taking a dig, CPI(M) leader and Kannur district secretary M V Jayarajan said Abdullakutty is waiting to join the BJP. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The crisis in the Congress showed no signs of easing on Tuesday with Rahul Gandhi sticking to his decision to resign as party chief after its Lok Sabha poll debacle and staying way from meeting party leaders, except a few including his mother and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Sources said Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his deputy Sachin Pilot went to meet Gandhi at his Tughlaq lane residence, but they only managed to meet Priyanka there. With senior Congress leaders pressing upon Rahul Gandhi to take back his resignation and revamp the party at all levels in these challenging times, a number of allies stood by him and urged him not to quit, describing him as the "best and competent" person to pull the party out of the abyss. The sources said Gandhi is not meeting anyone and remains incommunicado. He met only Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi during the day, besides party leaders K C Venugopal and chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala. Asked about the meeting, Gehlot and Pilot said that they did go to Rahul Gandhi's residence separately and spent some 20 minutes each there. Gehlot was reportedly ticked off by Gandhi at the CWC meeting on May 25 for giving priority to campaigning for his son in Jodhpur and neglecting other parts of the state. Rahul Gandhi met Sonia Gandhi in the evening and the two spent some time together. Sonia Gandhi came along with Rahul to drop him at his residence and spent some time there too. The sources indicate that the state executive of Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee will be meeting on Wednesday in Jaipur and would endorse the CWC resolution urging Rahul Gandhi to continue as party chief and steer the party out of its current state. The state co-ordination committee of Haryana is also meeting tomorrow. The sources said more PCCs are likely to endorse the CWC resolution, as Delhi Congress chief Sheila Dikshit also appealed to Rahul to withdraw his decision to step down, saying the party has bounced back in the past from challenging circumstances to triumph. The chorus of voices urging Rahul Gandhi not to quit grew as DMK chief M K Stalin told the Congress president that he has won the hearts of the people, while RJD supremo Lalu Prasad termed the offer to quit as "suicidal", asserting it would amount to "falling into the BJP's trap". Tamil superstar Rajinikanth also said the Congress chief should stay on as he was a "youngster" and perhaps not got the cooperation of senior party leaders. Rahul Gandhi offered to quit as party chief at the CWC meeting on May 25 that unanimously rejected his offer and authorised him to overhaul and restructure the party at all levels. He is reported to be insisting on his resignation and adamant on having a non-Gandhi installed as the party head. As senior Congress leaders made a determined bid to convince Gandhi to withdraw his resignation, Shashi Tharoor, who scored an electoral hat-trick by winning from the Thiruvanathapuram Lok Sabha seat, said Gandhi has led the party from the front and still has far more to offer to it. The Congress bagged 52 seats, marginally up from 44 secured in 2014. Another Congress leader Pramod Tiwari said, "Instead of resigning, he should seek resignations of leaders at all levels and restructure the party." M Veerappa Moily, also of the Congress, termed the poll setback as a "passing phase". Describing Gandhi as an "inspiration" for the party, Moily said it was not appropriate for him to quit his post. "Just because (Narendra) Modi has won...that is not a criteria to leave the presidentship. After all, ups and downs are common for the Congress party. We have seen them many a time," he said. Gandhi should not insist on his resignation and should "continue to guide the destiny of the party and the nation", he said. "Apart from legacy, on his own personality, he is the most competent person to lead the party," Moily said. During his telephonic conversation with Gandhi, Stalin told him though the Congress party has suffered defeat in the Lok Sabha polls, "you have won the hearts of the people". The DMK-led front in Tamil Nadu won 37 of the 38 LS seats to which election was held in the state. Lalu Prasad tweeted: "Rahul's offer to resign suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India." Asked by reporters in Chennai about Gandhi's offer to resign, Rajnikanth said, "He should not resign."Leaders are pointing out that the CWC, which is the highest decision-making body of the party, has already put down in writing its decision at the meeting on May 25. Asked at the AICC briefing, party spokesperson Pawan Khera said, "Let us not indulge in any speculation. The resolution of CWC stands and that is where we are." Asked whether Rahul Gandhi has taken back his resignation, Khera said, "The CWC is the most important decision making body of our Party. The CWC had rejected the resignation. What else do you want me to say? The CWC has rejected his offer to resign, has rejected his resignation." Faced with a colossal electoral defeat, the Congress has been riven by internal turmoil. As the party grapples with a severe existential crisis, its governments in Karnataka, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh teeter on the brink with reports suggesting the BJP may try to wrest power in these states. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) DSCA announced that on May 24, it has agreed to the sale of RQ-21A Blackjack tactical UAVs in the United Arab Emirates. This contract, estimated at $ 80M, must now be approved by the US Congress and covers 20 aircraft, also includes a positioning system (GPS) and an anti-jamming capability. Eight ground control stations are also composed, as well as catapults and recovery systems. A training component may also be included. US Marines prepare to launch an RQ-21 Blackjack UAS during a Weapons and Tactics Instructors Course at Yuma, Arizona, on Octocber 13, 2017 (Picture source: US Marine Corps/Lance Cpl. Rhita Daniel) According to the DSCA, the provision of such systems in the United Arab Emirates is necessary to ensure the security of the country. They will enable the UAE armed forces to carry out their missions by strengthening their security. The use of the RQ-21A Blackjack UAVs will further strengthen the interoperability of the UAE with the United States. The RQ-21A UAV system was designed to carry out missions in the land and maritime environment. It can thus participate in the security of military bases via surveillance missions but can also be used in operations. Send an upstream, it identifies potential risks and dangerous areas. Blackjack can carry electro-optical and infrared cameras, allowing it to operate in daytime and nighttime environments. A Delhi court Tuesday issued a non-bailable warrant against an alleged Lashkar-e-Taiba operative accused of money laundering and acting as a terror financing conduit. Special Judge Anuradha Shukla Bhardwaj passed the order against Mohammed Umer Madani, an operative of Pakistan-based proscribed terror group, after ED's special public prosecutor Nitesh Rana submitted that the accused had not responded to the summons issued against him by the court. Rana said the summons sent to his residence in Madhubani, Bihar had returned and requested the court to issue the non-bailable warrant (NBW). The NBWs are returnable by July 29, the next date of hearing in the case. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) recently filed a charge sheet through advocate A R Aditya under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). According to the agency, the ED took up the case on the basis of an FIR and charge sheet filed against Madani by the Special Cell of Delhi Police. The police arrested him in 2009 with fake Indian currency notes having a face value of Rs 50,000, USD 8,000, Nepalese rupee 4,067 and some documents. Madani, the ED said, was based in Nepal and operating as an organiser for the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). He is serving a jail term now in connection with the Delhi Police case, it said. The probe revealed Madani was "the right hand of Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Muhammad Saeed and LeT chief Zaki-ur-RehmanLakhwi, both residents of Pakistan, and that he was working for them to spot recruits for terrorist activities, organise training in Lashkar camps, launch LeT terrorists in India via India-Nepal border and distribute funds to LeT modules in India and Nepal". Madani was also involved in hatching a conspiracy with other LeT militants in order to carry out terrorist activities in India, the agency said. "During investigation under the PMLA, it was revealed that Madani was maintaining various bank accounts in Nepal in which huge amounts of cash were deposited and subsequently withdrawn by him. It is on record that he did not have any source of income except the money provided by his handlers from Pakistan," it said. The ED added that Madani frequently visited Bihar and other states of India to fund LeT modules for carrying out terrorist activities. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Police Tuesday arrested a wanted criminal who had allegedly shot dead a Hindu outfit leader in October 2017, officials said. Shubham Singh was arrested from Batala after a brief exchange of fire with police officials, they said. The accused had allegedly shot dead Hindu Sangharsh Sena leader Vipin Sharma nearly two years ago in broad daylight in Amritsar, the officials said. His aide Manpreet Singh, a resident of Walipur village in Tarn Taran district, was also arrested, they said, adding that police seized one bullet-proof jacket, an xen rifle, a .357 magnum revolver, three pistols of 32 bore, a beretta pistol and 200 live bullets from the duo's possession. Based on a tip-off, police laid a trap and intercepted Shubham Singh's vehicle, IGP Border range SPS Parmar said. The two accused opened fire at police officials and fled from the spot, but were later arrested near Pabba Rari village by a police team led by DSP Balbir Singh, he said. Twenty-one other cases of murder, attempt to murder and dacoity were registered against Shubham Singh at different police stations in Amritsar, Batala, Tarn Taran and Hoshiarpur districts, the IGP said. Shubham Singh will soon be produced before a court, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Police Tuesday arrested a wanted criminal who had allegedly shot dead a Hindu outfit leader in October 2017, officials said. Shubham was arrested from Batala after a brief exchange of fire with police officials, they said. The accused had allegedly shot dead Hindu Sangharsh Sena leader Vipin Sharma nearly two years ago in broad daylight in Amritsar, the officials said. "Batala Police has arrested Shubham, a most wanted gangster from Amritsar. He had shot dead Vipin Sharma, President-Hindu Sangharsh Sena on 21st Oct'17. He was arrested after exchange of fire in Batala. 4 Pistols & one 12 Bore gun have been recovered," Punjab DGP Dinkar Gupta tweeted. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Customs department has assured human hair exporters to take steps to check smuggling of the product from India with a view to boosting growth of domestic players, the industry said Tuesday. Member of Human Hair and Hair Products Manufacturers and Exporters Association of India Tuesday held a meeting with officials of customs department and apprised them about the issue of smuggling of raw human hair to countries like Myanmar and China, which is hurting Indian industries and exports. "They have assured that soon they will take steps to check the smuggling. We provided names of the people involved in the illegal exports," member of the association Sunil Eamani told reporters here. They have also suggested the commerce ministry to prohibit export of raw materials to increase availability of the commodity for domestic players. Chennai-based human hair exporter Allure Director P Sathish Gandhi said smuggling is hitting the domestic industry severely and, availability of adequate raw material will help us in manufacturing value-added products and increase exports. Explaining the modus-operandi of the industry, Gandhi said raw hair is collected from household for processing and selling, but now it is also being collected by smugglers from Myanmar and transported through the borders. He also noted that livelihood of lakhs of poor depend on the collection, processing and sale of human hair. Export of human hair and value-added products have declined to USD 248.1 million and 0.42 million respectively, in 2018 from USD 271.86 million and USD 2.32 million in 2017. The major export destinations include China, the US, Europe and middle-east countries. The major competitors of India are China, Cambodia, Vietnam and Myanmar. In India, West Bengal is the major hub for the industry besides Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Tamil Nadu. Raw human hair is mainly collected from households and temples of these states and, it primarily caters to the beauty market globally. Two types of hair are collected in India-remy and non-remy hair. Remy hair, best grade, is collected from temples where pilgrims donate their hair as part of a religious vow. This quality is mainly used to make hairpieces and wigs. Non-Remy hair is a household waste collected by small groups of people in villages and cities. They segregate that and sell to dealers. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Nepal's reluctance to limit the number of permits it issues to scale Mount Everest has contributed to dangerous overcrowding, with inexperienced climbers impeding others and causing deadly delays, seasoned mountaineers said. During the short period this season when the weather was clear enough to attempt the summit, climbers were crammed crampon-to-crampon above South Col's sharp-edged ridge, all clipped onto a single line of rope, trudging toward the top of the world and risking death as each minute ticked by. "There were more people on Everest than there should be," said Kul Bahadur Gurung, general secretary of the Nepal Mountaineering Association, an umbrella group of all expedition operators in Nepal. Eleven people have died this season, the highest number since 2015. Most are believed to have suffered from altitude sickness, which is caused by low amounts of oxygen at high elevation and can cause headaches, vomiting, shortness of breath and mental confusion. Once only accessible to well-heeled elite mountaineers, Nepal's booming climbing market has driven down the cost of an expedition, opening Everest up to hobbyists and adventure-seekers. They are required to have a doctors' note deeming them physically fit, but not to prove their stamina at such extreme heights. Because of the altitude, climbers have just hours to reach the top before they are at risk of a pulmonary edema, when the lungs fill with liquid. From Camp Four at 8,000 meters to the 8,850-meter peak, the final push on Everest is known as the "death zone." The conditions are so intense at such times that when a person dies, no one can afford to expend energy on carrying the body down from the mountain. "Every minute counts there," said Eric Murphy, a mountain guide from Bellingham, Washington, who climbed Everest for a third time on May 23. He said what should have taken 12 hours took 17 hours because of struggling climbers who were clearly exhausted but had no one to guide or help them. Just a handful of inexperienced climbers, he said, is "enough to have a profound effect." The deaths this year on Nepal's side of the mountain included Don Cash, a sales executive from Utah, and Christopher Kulish, an attorney from Colorado, who both died on their way down from the peak. Nepal doesn't have any regulations on the books to determine how many permits should be issued, so anyone with a doctor's note can obtain one for a USD 11,000 fee, said Mohan Krishna Sapkota, secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation. This year, permits were issued to 381 people, the highest number ever, according to the government. They were accompanied by an equal number of guides from Nepal's ethnic Sherpa community. Some climbers were originally issued permits in 2014 that were revoked mid-season when 16 Sherpa guides died in an avalanche and other Sherpas, whose support as guides and porters is essential, effectively went on strike. Another factor was China's limit on the number of permits it issued for routes in its territory on the north side of Everest this year for a clean-up. Both the north and south sides of the mountain are littered with empty oxygen canisters, food packaging and other debris. Instead of the overcrowding, Sapkota blamed the weather, equipment and inadequate supplemental oxygen for this year's deaths. "There has been concern about the number of climbers on Mount Everest but it is not because of the traffic jam that there were casualties," Sapkota said in Namche, the town that serves as the staging area for Everest trips. Still, he said, "In the next season we will work to have double rope in the area below the summit so there is better management of the flow of climbers." Instead of limiting the number of people who attempt to reach Everest's peak, Saptoka said Nepal's government will encourage even more tourists and climbers to come "for both pleasure and fame."Mirza Ali, a Pakistani mountaineer and tour company owner who reached Everest's peak for the first time this month, on his fourth attempt, said such an approach was flawed. "Everybody wants to stand on top of the world," but tourists unprepared for the extremes of Everest endanger the entire industry, he said. "There is not a sufficient check on issuing the permits," Ali said. "The more people come, the more permits, more business. But on the other side it is a lot of risk because it is costing lives." Indian climber Ameesha Chauhan, recovering from frostbitten toes at a hospital in Kathmandu, described the agony of turning away from the peak when she realized her supplemental oxygen supply was low. Two of her team members died on the May 16 ascent. She returned and scaled the peak a week later. "Many climbers are too focused on reaching the summit," she said. "They are not only risking themselves but also putting others at risk. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court Tuesday set aside the 'leave India notice' issued to a Pakistani woman married to an Indian man and residing here since 2005, saying the Centre did not follow procedure when it ordered her deportation. A bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice A J Bhambhani also set aside a single judge's order upholding the Centre's February 7 direction to the woman to leave the country within 15 days. The court said it was setting aside the 'leave India notice' "for lack of following procedure" and directed the government to consider the woman's application for citizenship. The bench also did not agree with the government's stand that the decision was taken on the basis of adverse security reports, saying the material, including intelligence inputs, placed before it was not sufficient for taking such a step against her. The court's verdict came on a plea filed by the woman's husband. The 37-year-old woman had come to India in 2005 after she got married. She has been residing in Delhi with her husband and two sons, aged 11 and five. The Centre had, during the proceedings, told the court that once a 'leave India notice' had been issued against a foreigner, the person should leave the country irrespective of having a valid visa to stay. Central government's standing counsel Anurag Ahluwalia had argued that once a 'leave India notice' is issued, the visa is deemed to be cancelled. The bench, however, did not agree with the government's stand and said that the woman's long-term visa was valid till 2020 and presently, it was not cancelled. The Centre's February 7 order was first challenged by the woman's husband before a single judge who dismissed the plea and had asked her to leave the country. Her husband then filed an appeal against the single judge's decision before the division bench. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 24-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly abducting the father of a woman he wanted to marry after her family rejected his proposal, police said Tuesday. The accused, identified as Sanjeev, was arrested on Monday. A resident of Meerut, he was working as a delivery boy with an online shopping company and had met the woman a few years ago through a common friend, they said. Sanjeev had been harassing her family to agree to their marriage for a while. The woman's family had even shifted to their native place to avoid him, they said. The woman's family had rejected Sanjeev's proposal so, he, along with three of his friends, hatched a plan to abduct her father, the police said. In the wee hours of Sunday, the four accused went to the shop where the woman's father worked as a munshi and abducted him, they said. Later, they made the man call his daughter and ask her to marry Sanjeev as "he is a good person", they added. Suspecting that her father had been abducted by Sanjeev, the woman reported the matter to police, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Anto Alphonse said. The location of the number from which the woman had received the call was traced and the accused, who kept changing their location, were finally nabbed in Mathura, he said. To abduct the man, the accused persons had borrowed a car from a common friend on the pretext of visiting some place, the DCP said. Sanjeev's associates are absconding, he added. Efforts are being made to arrest the three and recover the car used in the commission of the crime, the police said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three female doctors of a South Mumbai hospital booked for allegedly abetting suicide by a junior colleague by tormenting her with casteist slurs Tuesday moved a session court here for anticipatory bail, claiming innocence. The three doctors, Hema Ahuja, 28, Bhakti Mehere, 26, and Ankita Khandelwal, 27, said in their bail plea they were not even aware of the victim's caste and had only professional interaction with her. Hours after they moved the court, one of them, Mehra, however, was arrested after initial interrogation by the police. The trio, attached to Nair Hospital at Agripada in South Mumbai, has been booked under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, the Anti-Ragging Act and the IT Act and section 306 (abetment to suicide) of the IPC. In their bail application, which is likely to come up for hearing Wednesday, the doctors claimed they had not caused any harm to the victim, Dr Payal Tadvi, 26, who allegedly hanged herself on May 22. Her family has alleged that the three doctors taunted her for belonging to a Scheduled Tribe. The trio, in the pre-arrest bail plea, said they had only professional interaction with the deceased and it was work- related only. The accused doctors further said they were not aware that the deceased belonged to "any reserved category". "The applicants never knew her caste. They, day in and day out, treat people from all castes and categories. "If they never wanted the deceased to work there (at the hospital), they would have never worked with her. The deceased had assisted the applicants in various operations," it said. "In fact, on the day (of the incident) she had assisted Ahuja and Mehere in an operation. This clearly shows that deceased was allowed to work and could freely do her work without any trouble from the applicants," the plea added. They claimed the deceased never made any complaints about the harassment to the higher authorities. "It is worth noting that despite her own husband being a professor in a reputed government college as well as she also being a post-graduate student she had access to her seniors as well as the higher authorities in the college and yet she personally didn't lodge a complaint to any of the authorities," the application said. Referring to a claim by the victim doctor's mother that a complaint was given to to the authorities and which she has been circulating on WhatsApp, the plea said the authorities needed to probe and find out if any complaint was received by them at all. The three doctors termed Tadvi's death as a very "unfortunate incident" and claimed the entire atmosphere where she used to work is "overworked" and condition there is "extremely stressful". "There is huge amount of pressure, when performances are not put up to the extent expected because one is dealing with human lives, particularly involving women and children in the tender state of pregnancy and delivery," it said. The application claimed Tadvi had "shirked responsibilities" as between November 2018 and December 2018, she had suddenly stopped coming to the hospital, for which "she was labelled as a person who runs away (bhagoda)". "If the deceased was labelled as a person who runs away (bhagoda), it cannot be said that it amounted to any kind of abetment to suicide or offences under the SC/ST Act," they said. The application said a situation may arise where things are stressful and people may decide to conduct themselves with high efficiency and pull up others who don't. "If the deceased was acting in a manner, which was not proper as a student and as a trainee, she was expected to be pulled up. (If) she found the same to be too stressful, she could have left the job," it said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi Congress chief Sheila Dikshit Tuesday appealed to party president Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his decision to step down, saying the party has bounced back in the past from challenging circumstances to triumph. The Congress faces a critical crisis with Gandhi staying firm on his decision to quit after the poll debacle. The party won only 52 Lok Sabha seats and its governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan face an uncertain future. "Under the dynamic leadership of Indira Gandhi, the Congress party fought back from the setback in the 1977 Lok Sabha elections to wrest power two-and-a-half years later, and the party remained in power for several years thereafter," Dikshit said in a statement. Delhi Congress was firmly with Rahul Gandhi in this challenging time for the party, she said. "There was no need for the Congress president and the party workers to get disheartened by the setbacks in the Lok Sabha elections," she said, appealing Gandhi to withdraw his decision to step down as party president. Under Dikshti's leadership, the Congress was routed in Delhi by the BJP which won all seven Lok Sabha seats with huge margins. The Congress, however, managed to replace AAP as runners up on five of the seven seats. Dikshit herself lost to her BJP counterpart and sitting MP Manoj Tiwari by a margin of over 3.66 lakh votes from North East Delhi. Dikshit said the Congress candidates finished second in five of the seven Lok Sabha constituencies in Delhi, and the party also came first in five assembly segments and second in 42 others. The three-time former Delhi chief minister lamented that under the AAP regime, development works have "come to a halt" in the city. Dikshit said the Congress workers will go to the people with a positive agenda to win back their trust and confidence, and the party will bounce back in the upcoming assembly elections in Delhi in 2020. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A doctor at a state-run hospital in Mumbai, accused of abetting suicide of a junior colleague by tormenting her with castiest slurs, was arrested Tuesday, police said. Agripada police arrested Bhakti Mehere after initial interrogation, a police official said. Mehere was one of the three senior doctors against whom an offence was registered after 26-year-old Payal Tadvi committed suicide on May 22, police said. The two other accused doctors - Ankita Khandelwal and Hema Ahuja - have moved an anticipatory bail application before the session court here, the official said. Meanwhile, Payal's parents protested at the state-run hospital in Mumbai where she worked. Other protesters also joined Tadvis mother Abeda and husband Salman, demanding stringent action against the three seniors who allegedly drove her to end her life by "torturing her by ragging and hurling casteist abuses at her." Protesters belonging to the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi and other Dalit and tribal organisations held protests outside the BYL Nair Hospital here over Tadvi's death. Abeda said will the government take responsibility for safety of students like her daughter, who are pursuing higher education. She said Payal would have been the first woman MD doctor from their community. "Payal used to tell me about the torture which she was facing by her seniors on petty issues. They threw files on her face in front of patients," she said. "Payal used to tell me not to give a written complaint against her seniors despite being harassed by them. She would say that doing so would advesrely impact their career," Abeda said. Salman, a doctor, said it is possible that Payal was murdered by the three women doctors. Expressing solidarity with the protesters and with Tadvis family, Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad said he would visit Maharashtra if needed to "fight for justice for our younger sister. The Maharashtra State Commission for Women has also taken cognisance of the matter and issued a notice to the hospital authorities demanding a reply within eight days on the action taken to implement the anti-ragging law. The three women doctors at the hospital accused of driving Tadvi to suicide Monday sought a "fair probe" in the case. In a letter to the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD), they said they want the college to conduct a fair investigation in the matter and "give justice" to them. "This is not the way to do an investigation through police force and media pressure, without hearing our side," the three doctors said in the letter. MARD has suspended the three doctors. We have credible inputs that the three doctors made casteist remarks against Dr Payal Tadvi, who allegedly committed suicide. We will cooperate with the police for the further investigation, a senior MARD official said. Tadvi committed suicide on May 22. Her family has alleged that the doctors taunted her for belonging to a Scheduled Tribe. The three doctors have been booked under the Atrocities Act, the Anti-Ragging Act and the IT Act and Section 306 (abetment to suicide) of the IPC. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) After the INLD faced a major drubbing in the Lok Sabha polls, party president Om Prakash Chautala Tuesday asked workers not to lose hope and think of ways and means of coming out of the present crisis. While reaching out to the party workers, the former Haryana chief minister said he empathised with them over the "sorry state of affairs" which the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) currently finds itself in and the severe drubbing it had to face on all the 10 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Chautala, who is serving a jail sentence in connection with the teachers recruitment scam in Haryana, was released on furlough on Tuesday, a party statement said here. The INLD chief said he would soon meet all party workers to hear their voices about the present state of affairs of the party and the state of Haryana. He asked them "not to lose hope and think of the ways and means of coming out of this crisis and rebuild the party". Chautala said he will meet all the workers, including those who might have left the party for some reason. It will be his effort to have a "heart-to-heart talk" with as many of them as possible, listen to their grievances, pay heed to their suggestions and then in discussion with them chalk out a programme for rebuilding the party, the statement quoting him said. He reminded INLD workers that they represented the farming community, rural and working class "and cannot afford to allow the unity of these classes to be threatened". After a vertical split in the party last year, following feud in the Chautala family, INLD's political graph in Haryana has further nosedived. The party had fielded its candidates on all the 10 Lok Sabha seats in Haryana, but they lost their security deposits. Even its sitting MP from Sirsa Charanjeet Singh Rori lost. Not only the INLD lost the polls, its vote share dropped to a poor 1.89 per cent. The INLD, which had won two seats in 2014, had then increased its vote share to 24.4 per cent from 15.78 per cent in 2009 when it lost all the five seats it contested. The INLD, founded by late deputy prime minister Devi Lal has been out of power in Haryana for over 14 years now. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi University has directed all colleges of the varsity to carry out forensic analysis of documents submitted by students during the time of admission in order to avoid a case like that of former DUSU president Ankiv Baisoya who allegedly submitted fake marksheets. The varsity is also mulling over having smart identity cards for students. The DU's admission process is likely to begin by May 30. "Till now, different colleges had different identity cards and there was no uniformity. From this year, the identity cards will look similar but have the name of the college stamped on it. It was also found some colleges were issuing identity cards after six months of a student getting admission, so it was felt that smart ID cards be introduced," an official said. The varsity will be providing a list of empanelled agencies to conduct document forensics to the colleges to conduct forensic analysis of documents submitted by students. This year, the varsity has tied up with the Central Board of Secondary (CBSE) to gain access to class 12 results of students and when students will be checking in to the portal to register themselves, they will be asked whether they have studied from a CBSE board school and if they reply in the affirmative, the results will be accessed by the varsity. "More than 80 per cent of the students applying to the varsity for admissions are from the CBSE and we will have to carry out examination of documents of the remaining 20 per cent of the students. Incase documents submitted by a student is found fake, a case will be filed with police," the official said. Last year, the Delhi Police had registered an FIR against former Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) president Baisoya for allegedly furnishing fake marksheets to get admission in the Delhi University. This time, the work of the colleges will be easier as the weightage calculation with respect to different boards will be automated. "The CBSE has a ratio of 70:30 for theory and practical and this is accepted as a standard by the DU for admission. "Students from other boards, where the ratio might differ, seeking admission to the varsity while filling forms, will be provided the breakup in the 70:30 ratio automatically, thus easing the work of the colleges and maintaining accuracy," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The distribution of 'fish prasadam' by the Bathini family, which is believed to cure asthma, would take place on June 8 and 9 this year. Telangana Animal Husbandry Minister T Srinivas Yadav held a meeting with officials of various departments on the arrangements for distribution of the 'prasadam', an official release said. More than three lakh people are expected to come for taking the 'prasadam' this year, it said. The 'fish prasadam' is being distributed for more than 170 years by the Bathini family in Hyderabad. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Around 450 French nationals linked to the Islamic State are being held by Kurds or detained in refugee camps in northeastern Syria, the French foreign minister said Tuesday. "In the northeastern zone of Syria, we think that there are between 400 and 450 French people, some in camps, others held as prisoners, including children," Jean-Yves Le Drian told parliament's foreign affairs committee. He said only the children could be repatriated if they were orphans or if their mothers gave permission. France has long insisted that its adult citizens captured in Iraq or Syria must face trial locally, refusing to repatriate them despite the risk they could receive death sentences. "Our position is still the same and we will not shift: fighters must be judged where they have committed crimes," Le Drain said. A Baghdad court sentenced two more Frenchmen to death Tuesday for joining the Islamic State jihadist group, raising the number of French IS members on death row in Iraq to six. Since March Paris has repatriated just five orphans and a three-year-old girl whose mother was sentenced to life in prison in Iraq. Le Drian said that more than 100 French fighters were still present in Idlib, the last jihadist stronghold in Syria's northwest which is being relentlessly bombed by President Bashar al-Assad's troops. He said the area was a "real time bomb" with about "30,000" rebel and jihadist fighters holed up there and evoked the threat of an influx of refugees from this region to Europe. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) SpiceJet Tuesday posted a 22 per cent rise in net profit at Rs 56.3 crore in the three months ended March as higher fares helped the airline amid a capacity crunch in the domestic aviation market. The no-frills carrier, which now has 100 planes in its fleet, had a net profit of Rs 46.2 crore in the March quarter of 2018. During the three months ended March 2019, average fare went up by 11 per cent, the airline said. It expects the ticket prices to remain higher till December. The Jet Airways had resulted in lower seat capacity and also pushed air ticket prices higher starting from March quarter. SpiceJet is the second domestic carrier to post a profit after IndiGo in as many days. SpiceJet Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh said the airline has seen a strong recovery in the last two quarters after suffering a loss of Rs 427.5 crore in the first two quarters due to a steep increase in fuel costs and sudden depreciation of the rupee. "This recovery comes despite the unprecedented challenges we faced during the March quarter which saw the grounding of as many as 13 of our MAX planes," he said in a release. In the latest March quarter, revenue from operations jumped 25 per cent to Rs 2,477.75 crore. In the year-ago period, the same stood at Rs 1,995.04 crore. However, the airline reported a net loss of Rs 316.1 crore for the year ended March 2019. In the comparable period, it had a profit of Rs 566.66 crore. SpiceJet's Chief Financial Officer Kiran Koteshwar said yields maintained at good level was one of the reasons for good results in the March quarter. Generally, yield refers to average fare paid per passenger. He said that fares are likely to spike further since the capacity that has gone out of the market was not small. Flight cancellations and subsequent grounding of cash-starved Jet Airways in April have significantly impacted the available seat capacity in the domestic aviation market. The situation has pushed the fares higher. "Our view is that the yields which we are seeing now, the premium yields will stay for some more time... It could go up to December," he told PTI. When asked whether fares would remain higher till the end of this year, he said that was the expectation. "This is our core expectation and it is pure mathematical in nature... You can't add 80 aircraft in the next one or two months," he added. About 80 planes had gone out of the market due to grounding of Jet Airways. According to Koteshwar, SpiceJet has secured 30 planes starting from April end. Out of them, 22 have been inducted and the remaining ones would be inducted in the 8-10 days. "It is a process and that is why conservatively till the process is over we cannot record the compensation... It is definitely expected," he said about compensation to be received for grounding of Boeing 737 MAX planes. SpiceJet has grounded 13 MAX aircraft after a directive from aviation regulator DGCA in the wake of a plane crash that killed 157 people in Ethiopia in March. "With a massive fleet expansion this fiscal, a favourable operating environment, a likely return of the B 737 MAX (planes) in July, significant improvements in yields and prime slots at key airports, we are confident of a strong performance for FY 2020," Singh said. The airline's air cargo arm SpiceXpress has also launched freighter service on the Guwahati-Hong Kong sector. Noting that there is huge potential in the North East market, SpiceJet said it plans to connect all the seven North Eastern states with Guwahati., thereby building the latter in to a cargo hub for the entire region. "Currently the freighter fleet comprises of two Boeing 737NG Freighters and four more are expected to be added during FY 2020," the release said. On Monday, IndiGo's parent InterGlobe Aviation posted higher profit after tax of Rs 589.6 crore, mainly on the back of higher passenger revenues and cancellation of Jet Airways flights. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot returned to the state after his New Delhi visit on Tuesday. Gehlot was in New Delhi to take part in the Congress Working Committee meeting, which analysed the reasons for the party's poor performance in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls. On Wednesday, Gehlot will be present in the party's state-level executive committee meeting to be held at the party's state office. Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot and Congress national general secretary Avinash Pandey will also be present. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The German government has called on people to wear the Jewish kippa ahead of an anti-Israel protest as a demonstration of solidarity and as Jews face a spike in anti-Semitism, withdrawing an earlier warning against wearing the traditional skullcap. At the weekend, Felix Klein, the country's commissioner on anti-Semitism sparked uproar when he said in an interview with the Funke regional press group that he could not "advise Jews to wear the kippa everywhere all the time in Germany." Israeli President Reuven Rivlin voiced shock at Klein's warning and said it was a "capitulation to anti-Semitism" and evidence that Jews are unsafe in Germany. Late Monday, Klein reversed course after Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman intervened. "The state must see to it that the free exercise of religion is possible for all... and that anyone can go anywhere in our country in full security wearing a kippa," Steffen Seibert told a press conference. In his latest statement to Funke, Klein said: "I call on all citizens of Berlin and across Germany to wear the kippa next Saturday if there are new, intolerable attacks targeting Israel and Jews on the occasion of al-Quds day in Berlin." Al-Quds is an annual event against Israeli control of Jerusalem and will take place on Saturday. Klein also addressed his earlier statements, saying that he "could no longer recommend that Jews wear the kippa everywhere in Germany should be taken as an alarm signal." Earlier Monday, German daily Bild published a cut-out-and-use kippa in a bid to fight rising anti-Semitism. Bild, Germany's top-selling daily newspaper, called on readers to "stand in solidarity with (their) Jewish neighbours" by making "their own kippa", bearing the star of David, to "raise the flag against anti-Semitism". Germany, like other Western countries, has watched with alarm as anti-Semitic and other racist hate speech and violence have increased in recent years while the political climate has coarsened and grown more polarised. Anti-Semitic crimes rose by 20 per cent in Germany last year, according to interior ministry data which blamed nine out of 10 cases on the extreme right. The arrival in parliament of the far-right AfD party, whose leaders openly question Germany's culture of atonement for World War II atrocities, has also contributed to the change in atmosphere. Merkel has also deplored "another form of anti-Semitism" stemming from a major asylum-seeker influx, with many coming from Muslim countries like Syria, Afghanistan or Iraq. The Central Council of Jews in Germany has already issued several warnings about wearing the kippa in public. In one prominent case last year, a 19-year-old Syrian man was convicted for assault after lashing out with his belt at an Israeli man wearing a Jewish skullcap while shouting "yahudi", Jew in Arabic. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A grocery shop-owner was killed by unidentified miscreants in Bihar's Begusarai district on Tuesday, police said. The shop-owner identified as Prithivi Choudhary (60) was kidnapped my armed miscreants from his shop located at Veerpur bazar this afternoon, Sadar Deputy Superintendent of Police, Rajan Singh said. The body of Choudhary was found from a field near Baba Asthan, the DSP said. Police have detained two persons for questioning in connection with case, Singh said, adding that police have also seized a motorcycle, probably used the in the crime. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In the wake of stunning defeat of the Congress in Gujarat, its senior legislator and Leader of Opposition Paresh Dhanani has offered to resign from his post taking moral responsibility for the rout. Dhanani joins various Congress leaders across the country who have either resigned or offered to quit from their respective post after the Rahul Gandhi-led party's humiliating defeat in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The Congress could not open its account in Gujarat, where the ruling BJP won all the 26 Lok Sabha seats at stake. In 2014 too, the opposition party had failed to win any seat in the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Our Leader of Opposition Paresh Dhanani has offered to resign, taking moral responsibility of the defeat, before state Congress in-charge Rajiv Satav," party sources said Tuesday. Dhanani had himself contested from the Amreli Lok Sabha seat, where he lost by a margin of over two lakh votes to BJP candidate Naran Kachhadiya. Gujarat Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi confirmed that Dhanani has offered to resign, but said no decision has been taken by the party high command regarding his offer. Dhanani, a prominent Patel leader, had won the Amreli assembly seat in 2017. The Congress is faced with a spate of resignations following the poll debacle. Even party president Rahul Gandhi announced his resignation from the post a few days ago, but it was rejected by the Congress Working Committee (CWC), its highest decision- making body. The Congress had performed well in the 2017 elections in Gujarat, restricting the BJP to just 99 seats out of the total 182, and increasing its tally to 77 from 58 in 2012. However, the party failed to replicate its assembly election success in the Lok Sabha polls. Meanwhile, in Vadodara, a group of Congress leaders and workers held a demonstration demanding that Gandhi continue to provide leadership to the party. Rutvij Joshi, a state Congress spokesman, called upon Gandhi to lead the party in its ideological battle and to champion the cause of the youth, farmers, minorities, the poor and deprived sections. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Haryana government has released Rs 350 crore to help cooperative sugar mills pay the arrears of sugarcane farmers for the crushing season 2018-19, Minister of State for Cooperation Manish Grover said here Tuesday. He said of the total amount released, Rs 39 crore, Rs 39.50 crore and Rs 26.50 crore have been given to cooperative sugar mills in Panipat, Rohtak and Karnal respectively. Rs 35.50 crore and Rs 38 crore have been released to cooperative sugar mills in Sonipat and Jind respectively. Similarly, Rs 30.50 crore has been released to cooperative sugar mills, Palwal; Rs 48 crore to cooperative sugar mills, Meham; Rs 36 crore to cooperative sugar mills, Kaithal; and Rs 29 crore to cooperative sugar mills, Gohana, Grover said in an official release here. He said that sugarmills would pay the outstanding dues in the next week. Grover said the interest of farmers is a priority for the state government and it would ensure that no sugarcane farmer faces any kind of difficulty. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed a plea moved by a UAE-based businessman challenging a supplementary chargesheet filed against him by the NIA in a terror-funding case. A bench of justices Manmohan and Sangita Dhingra Sehgal said it was of the considered view that the trial court's order taking cognisance of the supplementary chargesheet was "within the realm of law and does not warrant any interference". The high court dismissed the appeal of businessman Naval Kishore Kapoor, who is lodged in Tihar Jail since last year after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested him in the terror-funding case. The bench said the argument of Kapoor's counsel that the trial court had erroneously and wrongly taken cognisance against him as no fresh material was produced by the investigating agency in the supplementary chargesheet, implicating him in the alleged conspiracy, was without force. It said, "...there is sufficient material available on record, which prima facie points towards the involvement of the appellant (Kapoor) that he, along with accused no. 10 (Zahood Ahmad Shah Watali), aided and abetted the flow of funds from fake and bogus companies floated in the UAE and channelised the same to the secessionists and separatists in Kashmir Valley." The bench added that the NIA, on the basis of new material collected, was able to unearth a fresh cause of action against Kapoor and thus, had filed the supplementary chargesheet against him. The NIA had earlier filed a chargesheet against various accused, including Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin, in the case, accusing them of "conspiring to wage war against the government" and fomenting trouble in the Kashmir valley. The agency has charged Pakistan-based terrorists Hafiz Saeed and Salahuddin, besides 10 others, with criminal conspiracy, sedition and under the stringent provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The agency has charged the Hurriyat leaders with acting under the overall guidance of and instructions from Saeed, Salahuddin and their "Pakistani handlers". They have been accused of plotting strategies to launch violent protests. In January, the NIA filed a supplementary chargesheet in a court here against Kapoor for the alleged offence of criminal conspiracy under the Indian Penal Code and under sections 17 (punishment for raising funds for terrorist act) and 21 (punishment for holding proceeds of terrorism) of the UAPA. Kapoor challenged the trial court's January 22 order by which cognisance was taken on the supplementary chargesheet against him. He said he was named as a public witness in the main chargesheet filed by the NIA on January 18, 2018 and he had been joining the investigation as and when called. He alleged that the trial court had failed to take note that no fresh material for submission of a supplementary chargesheet was filed by the agency. On July 26, 2018, Kapoor was arrested without being served with an arrest order or without being communicated the reasons and grounds of his arrest, he had contended. The NIA's counsel had argued that the appeal was filed by the accused with an ulterior motive to delay the proceedings before the trial court and there was no bar on the investigating agency from filing a supplementary chargesheet against an accused on unearthing a fresh cause of action against him. The counsel had contended that Kapoor, in connivance with his business partner and accused Watali, had actively participated in the alleged offence. The high court, in its order, said any observation made was only for the purpose of deciding the grounds urged before it in the plea and would not be treated as an expression on the merits of the matter before the trial court. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An architect cannot restrain the owner of a building he has designed from demolishing it, the Delhi High Court ruled on Tuesday, while dismissing a plea for recreating the demolished Hall of Nations and the Nehru Pavilion at a separate location here. The ruling by the court came while dismissing a suit filed by the architect of the buildings, which were located at Pragati Maidan here and were demolished to re-develop the area, seeking directions to the Indian Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) to recreate them as compensation. Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw, in his verdict, said, "The special rights of the author of an architectural work cannot be interpreted as being a restriction on the right to property of the owner of the land and building and entitling the author to restrain the owner of the land and building, in which the architectural work has been expressed, from better utilising his land or building by removing the existing building and constructing a new building on the land." The court said artistic or architectural work "was not scarce and more can be produced", but not land. It said the requirements of urban planning "outweigh" the moral rights of an architect. "Similarly, technical reasons to modify the building, economic reasons justifying modifications to the building and the necessity to obtain an authorisation to build, all prevail over the moral rights. "The architect cannot demand the intangibility of work because it would violate the right of ownership and the principles of freedom of commerce. Similarly, functionality of the building has to necessarily outweigh the interest of the architect on the preservation of integrity. Thus, the owner of the building has full power to dispose it of and destroy it," the court said in its 32-page judgment. It said under the Copyright Act, the only right an architect had was an "embargo" on making his copyrighted work look like something other than what was created. "Just like the purchaser of a work of art, copyright wherein vests in the artist, is entitled not to display the same, so also the owner of a building, even if an acclaimed piece of architecture, cannot be restrained from demolishing the same and making a new building in its place," the court said. The judge, in conclusion, said, "I thus do not find any right in the plaintiff (Raj Rewal) as architect of the building/structure, to, under the Copyright Act, object to demolition of the work or to claim any damages for such demolition." Rewal had initially moved the high court in 2016 challenging the ITPO's decision to demolish the Nehru Pavilion and the Hall of Nations as part of the proposed redevelopment of the Pragati Maidan complex. The petition was dismissed in February, 2016. Thereafter, he had filed another petition seeking a declaration that the two buildings were works of art of national importance and therefore, they should be preserved. The plea was dismissed in April, 2017 by a single-judge bench of the high court on the ground that the Heritage Conservation Committee (HCC) had not directed preservation of the buildings. Rewal had appealed to a division bench against the decision and while it was pending, the ITPO started demolishing the buildings in question and within a short span of time, reduced the said buildings to rubble. At the time of filing the appeal, Rewal had also filed a suit seeking directions to the ITPO to recreate the buildings at another prominent location under his supervision. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court has upheld life imprisonment awarded to a man for sodomising a four-year-old child, saying his perverse act would have caused physical injuries and left deep emotional scars on the victim. The court said the 25-year-old convict was himself a father of a small child, but he had no compunction in committing such a heinous crime. A bench of Justices Hima Kohli and Vinod Goel upheld the verdict of a trial court which had awarded life term to the convict, a neighbour of the minor, and dismissed his appeal. The bench noted that the victim was lured by the man in his room as he offered to feed him chicken-rice and the child innocently accepted it and went to his room which was in the same premises where he and his family were residing. "By committing such a perverse act, the appellant (man) has not only caused physical injuries to the victim but more than that, the said act would have left deep emotional scars on him likely to stay on in his mind for a long, long time to come. "This reprehensible animality demonstrated by the appellant would have caused the victim such trauma that he will be wary of reposing trust in an adult or live a joyous and carefree life in his formative years," the bench said. It said when the spirit is broken, and that too at such a tender age, it is bound to stultify the healthy all-rounded growth of the child. "It is noteworthy that the appellant was 25 years old on the date of committing the offence. He was married and had a child. But that did not deter him from lusting for the 4-year-old victim. The fact that the appellant was himself father of a small child and yet he had no compunction in committing such a heinous crime, gives strength to our resolve to uphold the judgment," the bench said. The high court said that considering the nature of the crime and the tender age of the victim, the compensation amount of Rs four lakh awarded to the child by the trial court ought to be enhanced. It said that a copy of this order be forwarded to the Delhi State Legal Services Authority for appropriate orders. According to the prosecution, the incident took place in January, 2016, when the child's mother was sitting at terrace and he had gone to eat chicken-rice at the man's room. After some time, the child came to his mother who saw him bleeding. He informed her about the man's acts after which she raised an alarm and the accused was caught by the neighbours and the matter was reported to the police. The man had denied the allegations levelled against him and claimed that he was falsely implicated in the case by the child's parents who had borrowed money from him earlier. The bench also said this is a case where, for once, the police did not lose any time in conducting the investigation and the sequence of the events that stand amply corroborated in all material aspects are borne out from the independent evidence brought on record. It said when all the evidence is taken together, it endorsed the testimony of the victim that it was the man who had committed carnal intercourse with him and said it has no hesitation in upholding the trial court's judgment. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hindu Makkal Katchi founder-leader Arjun Sampath visited Sri Lanka and paid homage to the victims of the Easter Sunday serial blasts and those killed in the 2009 civil war, the Tamil Nadu based right wing outfit said Tuesday. Sampath embarked on a four-day "spiritual sojourn," to the island nation on May 23 and visited the Kandy Murugan temple, Sita eliya (temple), and also took part in an event at a Shiva temple in Jaffna. He paid homage to the civilian victims of the 2009 civil war between the government forces and the now defunct Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, the outfit said. Sampath also paid homage to the over 250 people killed in the serial blasts on April 21. On May 28, he returned to Tamil Nadu, the HMK added. Arjun Sampath was earlier an Hindu Munnani (an RSS affiliate) functionary and later founded the Hindu Makkal Katchi. Last year, five men were arrested for plotting to eliminate him and his son Omkar Balaji. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) / -- IMC (Intuit Management Consultancy LLP), a leading cross-border advisory firm, is happy to announce its partnership with Kallath and Company W.L.L. to facilitate cross-border investment in to and from Bahrain. The team of Kallath & Co. W.L.L. is headed by Adv. Madhavan Kallath who is the Managing Partner of Kallath & Co. W.L.L. He has over 30 years' experience in the legal field. He is a Member of the Bar Council of Maharashtra, Mumbai, India. He is a former visiting faculty in law at Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) and Ernst and Young (Training Division), Bahrain. He is also a Fellow of the Institute of Company Secretaries of India. "This partnership will facilitate investments and ease business operations by providing access to the right expertise and advice across the U.A.E. and Bahrain economies," said Piyush Bhandari, Managing Partner of IMC. The UAE will be the fastest growing economy in the GCC region this year, driven by non-oil sector. UAE is projected to grow 3.1 per cent in 2019. International Monetary Fund had predicted 3.7 per cent growth for the UAE for 2019 in its October forecast. In 2018, higher oil prices enabled temporary improvements in the external and fiscal positions of the GCC countries. Oil and natural gas play a dominant role in Bahrain's economy with oil comprising 85% of Bahraini budget revenues. Bahrain's economic freedom score is 66.4 making its economy the 54th freest in the 2019 Index. Its legal system adequately protects and facilitates acquisition and disposition of property rights. Bahrain imposes no taxes on personal income. The companies, except those in the oil sector, are not subject to Income Tax. About IMC (Intuit Management Consultancy): IMC (part of CPAAI Network), focusing on AMEA (Asia, Middle East and Africa) markets, offers various market entry solutions such as corporate advisory services, mergers and acquisitions, international tax, global mobility services, corporate finance, investment consultation, and support in business operations and outsourcing solutions. IMC has six offices across Dubai, Muscat, Dammam, Chennai, Mumbai and Singapore. IMC's Dubai Office is located at M02 NBQ Building, Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road, Bur Dubai, P.O. Box 115887, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Phone: +971-4-3709963, E-Mail: bc@intuitconsultancy.com For more information, visit: https://intuitconsultancy.com/ae/About Kallath & Co. W.L.L.:It was established in Manama, Bahrain about 12 years ago. The services offered include company formation, corporate secretarial services, corporate advisory services, drafting and reviewing of all contracts including joint ventures, partnership, franchise, management and employment agreements. It also offers quality legal advice and documentation for corporates, owners, partners and shareholders. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Runaya Refining Tuesday said India Ratings and Research has assigned it an investment-grade credit rating, on the back of continuation of timely implementation of the project, successful tie-up with foreign technology company and low working capital requirement. "Runaya Refining has been assigned a long-term issuer rating of 'IND BBB-' (with stable outlook) by India Ratings and Research," Runaya Refining said in a statement. Instruments with the rating 'IND BBB' are considered to have moderate degree of safety regarding timely servicing of financial obligations. Such instruments carry moderate credit risk. Runaya Refining is a sustainability solutions company with operations based on its licensed proprietary patented technology. The rating is assigned on the basis of Runaya Refining's operational linkage with a strong counterparty Vedanta Ltd, continuation of timely implementation of the project, successful tie-up with foreign technology company, low working capital requirement, and high customer concentration. "Runaya is assigned investment-grade credit rating, in spite of being in project phase, demonstrating strong project dynamics. This also validates the robust financials of the company and its lean operational model," Annanya Agarwal, chief executive offier, Runaya Refining, said. According to India Ratings and Research, the definitive agreement that Runaya Refining has entered into with Vedanta for the processing of aluminium dross till March 2023 will contribute steadily to the topline of the project. The company is also implementing hot and cold dross units near Vedanta's cast houses in Jharsuguda in Odisha to recover metal content. Another reason cited is that since commencing operations from October 2018, Runaya Refining is running on track with commissioning of units and expansion of capacity. Runaya is expected to commission the hot dross processing plant and briquette plant by October 2019, which is on schedule, the statement said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Travel portal has said India is among the fastest-growing markets in terms of addition of alternative accommodation platforms. Of the total 8,80,000 listings in India, over 1,40,000 are in 'alternative accommodation' segment, the company said. It witnessed a 68 per cent 'supply growth' in this category in 2017-18 in India. Listing denotes an individually bookable unit within a property. Alternative accommodation segment covers home-stays, hostels, apartments, villas, cabins, tree-houses, boats and bed and breakfast facilities, among others. A large chunk of company's supply growth in these categories came from states of Goa, and The figures were shared by Gillian Tans, chief executive of the company during an interaction with a select group of journalists at the company's headquarters in Amsterdam recently. Globally, 40 per cent of the company's active customers booked an alternative accommodation between February 2018-February 2019, it said. Citing findings of a survey it had undertaken, the company claimed 37 per cent of global travellers were planning to book a stay in an alternative accommodation in 2019. Its global revenue from the alternative accommodation segment for calendar year 2018 stood at $2.8 billion, about 20 per cent of overall revenue of Booking Holdings. The company, however, did not reveal revenue figures for the segment in India, nor the percentage of travellers who booked a stay in alternative accommodations in the country. According to its survey, two-thirds of Indian travellers said that in 2018 they "plan to stay at least once in a type of accommodation they have not stayed in before." 43 per cent of Indian travellers said they will consider listing their homes on a travel website (as an accommodation), as against 21 per cent globally. Ritu Mehrotra, country manager, India, Sri Lanka and Maldives, said the Indian market is now "mobile-driven", as more and more customers are accessing the company's platform through mobile phones instead of desktop computers. "As against 50 per cent of bookings happening through mobile apps globally, in India the proportion would be in the range of 60 per cent and more," she added. "Social media is a major growth driver for the tourism industry, especially in tier 2 and 3 cities," she said. and posts are acting as influencers for potential travellers when they make decisions about destination and accommodation. "The 'FOMO' (fear of missing out) factor is being seen as a strong catalyst in these cities - thanks to social media," she said. "Lot of people want to go to instagrammable locations. Specially in tier 2 tier 3 markets, there is such big influence of social media that the moment I go somewhere I have to put pictures and these pictures have to look good," she said. "Disposable incomes are high in these cities, specially in tier 2 and 3 and there is a gap between supply and demand," she added. Talking about the company's India strategy, CEO Tans said, "Our first goal was to build supply and brand and we are really focussed on that....Now we want to make sure that we get our brand out there." India on Tuesday issued a fresh advisory asking citizens travelling to Sri Lanka to be careful and vigilant in view of last month's bombings in which over 250 people were killed. In the advisory, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said security situation in Sri Lanka is gradually returning to normal with the lifting of curfew and restrictions on social media and the opening of schools. At the same time it said, "Indian nationals travelling to Sri Lanka are advised to be careful and vigilant." It also asked Indian nationals requiring any assistance to get in touch round the clock with the Indian High Commission in Colombo and Assistant High Commission in Kandy as well as Consulates in Jaffna and Hambantota. In the aftermath of the blasts last month, the MEA had asked citizens not to undertake non-essential travel to the island nation. Nine suicide bombers carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and three luxury hotels on the Easter Sunday, killing 253 people. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Indian-American supporters of BJP and several other organisations held victory parties across the US to celebrate Prime Minister Narendra Modi's re-election in the general elections and expressed hope that it will further enhance ties between the US and India. Overseas friends of BJP (OFBJP) Houston organised "NAMO Victory Celebrations" here in which over 500 people, including members from local political parties and leaders from various supporting organisations participated. OFBJP Chicago and Atlanta also organised victory celebrations over this weekend and hundreds of Indian Americans participated the events. Congratulating Prime Minister Modi on his stunning election victory, Indo American Chamber of Greater Houston (IACCGH) president Swapan Dhairyawan said, "We firmly believe that the country will prosper under a strong and proven leadership of Modi and indicated that this historic win will further enhance trade and economic growth between our two democracies". IACCGH, the voice of the Indo-American business community, has been instrumental in facilitating commerce between the US and India for the last two decades. Indian-American groups also celebrated India's election results at the India House. Texas Governor Greg Abbott, in a message to Indian Ambassador to the US Harsh Vardhan Shringla, said that he viewed Modi's election as "very important to the future of India." "Texas looks forward to continuing working with you as we advance the economics of India and Texas," Abbott said. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, in a congratulatory message, invited Modi to his city in Texas. "I would like to assure you of my commitment to continue strengthening relations between Houston and India, creating more business and trade opportunities, and improving the quality of life for all that call Houston home," Turner said. The Mayor also tweeted, "'bahut bahut badhai' on his re-election as prime minister of #India, a key trade and cultural partner with #Houston -- and invites the PM to visit America's most diverse big city! #IndianElections2019 . (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Lakshadweep administration Tuesday held a multi-agency security review meeting following intelligence reports that a boat carrying 15 Islamic State (IS) terrorists had set off from Sri Lanka to the scenic islands. Farooq Khan, the Administrator of the Union Territory, held a meeting at Kavaratti with senior officials of the local administration, Navy and Coast Guard, a Lakshadweep administration spokesperson said. He said Naval officers briefed Khan that both the Navy and Coast Guard vessels are undertaking enhanced patrolling across all the islands of Lakshadweep. "The surveillance by Naval maritime patrol aircraft is also in progress and all possible measures have been taken to prevent such intrusion in any of the islands in Lakshadweep," the spokesperson said, quoting the defence officials. The Navy officer also informed the meeting that a boat from Tamil Nadu, named S S Rafai, with eight crew members and bearing false registration documents has been seized near Suheli island, he said. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shibesh Singh briefed the meeting that his personnel are maintaining high alert in the area and all the passenger jetties and fish landing jetties have been kept on strict surveillance. Khan directed all the security forces including Navy, Coast Guard, CRPF, local police and intelligence units to exercise high alert. The administrator also directed these agencies to give special attention to the uninhabited islands and take up frequent joint patrolling, he said. Khan also directed the agencies that special security should be ensured at the Agatti island, the spokesperson said. The intelligence about the suspected movement of the terrorists was first received on May 23 from Sri Lankan authorities and the Kerala police has also been on alert since then. Sri Lanka witnessed a deadly terror attack on Apr 21 when eight blasts rocked the island nation,claiming over 250 lives. The Islamic State had claimed responsibility for the attack. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) YSR Congress Party chief YS Jaganmohan Reddy Tuesday arrived at Tirumala near here to offer prayers at the Lord Venkateswara temple before taking over as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. Reddy, the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister-designate landed by a special flight at Renigunta airport from Vijayawada and reached the hills by road amid tight security. He would visit the shrine to pay obeisance to Lord Venkateswara on Wednesday morning, a temple official told PTI. Meanwhile, an official communique said after having darshan at the Lord Venkateswara temple, Reddy would also visit a dargah in Kadapa town and CSI church in Pulivendula, his hometown. After paying homage at the memorial of his late father, former Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy in Idupulupaya in the district, he would leave for Vijayawada and offer prayers at the famous hill shrine of Goddess Sri Kanaka Durga in the evening, the communique added. Reddy is set to be sworn in as Chief Minister at the Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation stadium in Vijayawada on May 30. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister-designate Y S Jaganmohan Reddy Tuesday invited Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu for his swearing-in ceremony in Vijayawada on May 30. Reddy, whose YSR Congress swept the state elections bagging 151 of the 175 seats, will be sworn in as chief minister at 12.23 pm on Thursday. YSRC sources said the CM-designate spoke to the TDP chief over phone and extended a formal invitation for the swearing-in ceremony. Reddy has already invited Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, who has confirmed his attendance. After the swearing-in, Governor E S L Narasimhan, Chandrasekhar Rao and Reddy will leave for Delhi to attend the swearing-in of Narendra Modi as Prime Minister. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actor Jason Momoa, who played Khal Drogo in the first season of "Game of Thrones", says he and his friend drove around Ireland during a break while shooting the fantasy drama as they were too broke to fly home. Momoa, 39, shared an Instagram image from his time on the show. "So homesick. Looking through my phone I found this," he coptioned the picture. "It was an amazing simple moment with my best friend (Brian Andrew Mendoza). While filming GOT we had a lil break We were to (sic) broke to fly home so we rented a panel van aka UHAUL in Belfast and drove around beautiful amazing IRELAND searching for the greatest pint of Guinness. Turns out it's perfect everywhere. So many wonderful people and stories I treasure those times It was the simplest moments I remember the most," the actor wrote. I still miss my family. Been a long road and I feel like I'm just getting started," he added. "Game of Thrones" recently ended after eight seasons. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The BJP's Karnataka unit Tuesday alleged that the JD(S)-Congress government took a cabinet decision in a "hurry" to allot 3,700 acres of land at a cheaper rate to the JSW Steel plant in Ballari to "fill" their coffers and out of fear that they might lose power in the state. State BJP general secretary C T Ravi also claimed that the coalition government is on a "shaky ground" and a cabinet proposal on the JSW Steel plant was cleared on Monday. He demanded that the state government immediately stop this. "The Karnataka government has given 8,000 acres of land in Sandur, Ballari district, to JSW Steel plant in tranches since 1993. The land was given on lease. Yesterday, the cabinet took a decision to allow a sale deed for 3,700 acres at Rs 1.25 lakh per acre," Ravi told reporters here. While the market value of the land near the steel plant is in the range of Rs 15-20 lakh per acre, the government's decision to sell it at only Rs 1.25 lakh per acre is against the interest of the state, he said. Following the cabinet meeting on Monday, Rural Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda told reporters in Bengaluru that JSW Steels in Ballari was given 3,660 acres in 2005-06 on the basis of lease-cum-sale to set up a plant and infrastructure for employees. He had said as per the agreement, the lease had to be converted to sale after 10 years, which the cabinet approved on Monday. The minister had also said any difference in the amount that the company needs to pay would be collected. However, Ravi alleged, "The JD(S) and the Congress had taken the decision in a hurry out of fear of losing power and to fill their coffers." The decision was taken without looking into whether the company had met all the conditions such as the number of jobs created, jobs given to locals and the impact on the environment that were agreed upon in the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the state government, he claimed. The BJP leader also said the previous Congress-led government had deferred a decision on this matter as several cabinet members, including H K Patil, had opposed it. But, the cabinet had a taken a decision to give below 10 acres of land for sale and above 10 acres for lease alone, he claimed. "Now, the JD(S)-Congress government has taken the decision in favour of Jindal. I suspect corruption in crores... this should be stopped immediately," he said, adding that Patil has shot off a letter to the government opposing the cabinet decision. Ravi alleged that to undertake public works like roads, the government is acquiring land at Rs 15-30 lakh per acres, but for corporates, the government is selling land at Rs 1.25 lakh per acre. "Who has fixed the rate and what is the market value," he asked. The state BJP leader also mentioned that the party would raise the matter in the assembly and if required, take legal action. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) JD(U) legislator Mewalal Choudhary and wife Nita Choudhary, also an ex-MLA, have sustained severe burn injuries in a gas cylinder explosion in Bihar's Munger district, the police said. While Nita suffered 90 per cent burn injuries and was battling for life, her husband escaped with burns on his hands, Munger Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Hari Shankar Kumar told PTI. Sources in the neighbourhood said the couple woke up to foul smell in the middle of the night and switched on the lights in the kitchen, triggering the cylinder blast. The ASP, however, clarified that the reason behind the explosion can be ascertained only after a thorough probe. Kumar said the couple was rushed to Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital, Bhagalpur, where the doctors referred Nita to Patna Medical College and Hospital. "From what we have heard last, Nita Chowdhury is being airlifted to Delhi from Patna for better treatment," he added. Mewalal Choudhary is the JD(U) legislator from Tarapur Assembly constituency in Munger. His wife had also represented the constituency in the past. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Uttar Pradesh cabinet Tuesday approved a proposed bid document for Jewar Airport and sanctioned Rs 894 crore for the resettlement and rehabilitation of displaced families, an official statement said. The land acquisition process for the Greenfield International Airport in Gautam Buddh Nagar, the second in Delhi-NCR and billed to be the biggest in the country, picked up pace in the last quarter of 2018, but the work halted in April due to restrictions clamped for the Lok Sabha elections. "The council of ministers has approved a proposal related to the establishment of the Noida International Greenfield Airport in Jewar in Gautam Buddh Nagar. The cabinet has approved the bid document and the draft concession agreement which were presented to it by the Project Monitoring and Implementation Committee (PMIC)," a statement released by the state government's Department of Information said. The cabinet also agreed to the global tender process for the Noida International Airport Limited as per the timeline proposed by PMIC after its May 21 meeting, it added. "The cabinet gave its administrative and financial approval to provide Rs 894 crore for resettlement and rehabilitation of families which will be displaced after the commencement of the project. It also gave its administrative and financial approval to an already-sanctioned Rs 275 crore fund for the project," it said. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been authorised by the cabinet of ministers to take decisions related to the project at certain time intervals as per requirement, the statement said. According to the project officials, the airport will be established over an area of 5,000 hectares and cost an estimated Rs 15,000 crore to Rs 20,000 crore. During the first phase of airport development, which is underway, 1,239 hectare land, has to be acquired from six villages -- Rohi, Dayanatpur, Parohi,Kishorpur, Ranhera and Banwariwas-- and result in displacement of at least 3,600 families. "The Gautam Buddh Nagar administration has already disbursed compensation money to the tune of Rs 250 crore for acquiring 100 hectare land from Kishorpur, Dayanatpur and Rohi villages," Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Jewar, Abhay Singh told PTI. Apart from the monetary compensation for the acquired land from the six villages, the administration will also dole out an option for either job for a family member or money as additional help, he said. "Also, the authorities have to purchase 50 hectare land elsewhere for resettlement of families displaced due to the project. That land is estimated to cost around Rs 94 crore," Singh said. The UP government had in November 2018 approved funds of Rs 1,260 crore for acquisition of land for theairport. It had earlier appointed Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) as the implementing agency for the mega project. Some landowners, including farmers, initially resisted the land acquisition citing various reasons such as "inadequate" compensation amount and related benefits besides the resettlement policy. Over a hundred farmers, most of them from Kishorpur, moved the Allahabad High Court in February this year, saying they wanted their land acquired for the airport back. The court, however, rejected their petition. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister will attend the swearing-in ceremony of Narendra as prime minister on Thursday. The chief minister has been invited for the ceremony and he will attend it, a official confirmed. The ruling in Delhi and the were involved in a bitter war of words with both sides attacking each other in a no holds barred contest. Delhi Congress president and three-time former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit said she has not received any invitation for Modi's swearing-in ceremony. The won all the seven seats in Delhi routing both the Congress and the in the Lok Sabha polls. Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi will attend the May 30 swearing in ceremony of Narendra Modi as Prime Minister for the second term. An official source said Bedi left here for Delhi Tuesday. The Lt Governor will in the meanwhile complete three years in office on Wednesday, but will not be in the union territory because of her visit to Delhi. She has been at loggerheads with Chief Minister V Narayanasamy and his government on various administrative issues ever since she assumed office in May 29 2016. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and assistant Jared Kushner has departed on a trip to Morocco, Jordan and Israel, the White House said Tuesday, signalling a fresh round of talks on a proposed US Mideast peace plan. Kushner is accompanied by Jason Greenblatt, Trump's special representative to international negotiations, and Brian Hook, the special US representative for Iran, the White House said. They "will travel from May 27 to May 31 to Rabat, Amman, and Jerusalem," said a White House official speaking on condition of anonymity. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The four-member commission conducting the BJP's internal probe into allegations of party members offering bribes to influence the Parliamentary polls has completed its ground-level investigation, sources said. The commission members, headed by Justice (retd) G D Sharma, have returned from Leh, sources in the BJP told PTI. Other members of the panel include former IPS officer and IG S S Bijral, Dr Pallav Sharma and Advocate Tashi Gayalson, they said. On May 4, the Press Club, Leh, had accused the BJP of trying to bribe its members by offering "envelops filled with money", a charge denied by the party which said the allegations were "politically motivated". The fact finding commission recorded statements of journalists, persons associated with Press club, Leh, local leaders and examined CCTV footages, the sources said. "The panel members have left Leh and would soon submit the findings of the probe to the party head," they said. The police in Leh on May 9 registered an FIR against BJP leader and MLC Vikram Randhawa in connection with bribe allegations. The case was registered under sections 171E (punishment for bribery) and 171F (punishment for undue influence or personation at an election) of the Ranbir Panel Code (RPC) warranting investigation, officials said. An FIR was registered after the chief judicial magistrate of Leh directed the police to launch a probe into the matter on Wednesday last week. The FIR was registered against BJP leader and MLC Vikram Randhawa. Randhawa called the allegations "baseless" and said the Congress was trying to malign the BJP's image. Randhawa, who is the BJP's Ladakh in-charge, said, "All allegations of Leh journalists are baseless and misleading. It was supported by anti-BJP elements in Kashmir and the Congress to malign the image of the party." On May 4, Press Club, Leh, had accused the BJP of trying to bribe its members by offering "envelopes filled with money" after a press conference. A two-page letter signed by several members of the Press Club was circulating on social media. A CCTV footage of the alleged incident also came to light. Randhawa, however, claimed the envelopes contained invitations for reporters for the coverage of Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's visit to Leh on May 4. The MLC had said some media persons opened the envelopes and returned them, saying they don't need special invitations as they were already covering the minister's visit. BJP's state unit chief Ravinder Raina supported a probe into the matter but also questioned the claim of journalists asking why was the money not shown in the CCTV footage. "They should have shown the notes after opening the packets. They had cameras too. The press conference was held on May 2 and they could have shown it on the same day. Only on May 4 it came out on social media as a planned conspiracy to defame the BJP," Raina said. The national BJP president Amit Shah had setup the fact-finding commission headed by Justice Sharma to probe the matter. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actor Natalie Portman, who rose to stardom at the age of 13 with assassin drama "Leon: The Professional", believes it would not be possible to remake the "largely inappropriate" film. The 37-year-old actor played a street-smart girl, Mathilda, who befriends her much older neighbour, a professional hitman called Lon (Jean Reno) and becomes his protegee when her family is killed by a corrupt Drug Enforcement Administration agent. Portman, who has two children -- Aleph and Amalia -- with husband Benjamin Millepied, said she is not sure whether she wants to the film to her kids. "It's as weird mix. It's still the thing people come up to me the most on the street, even more than 'Star Wars' or 'Black Swan'. I appreciate it when something connects with an audience. It also gave me my career on a platter and was a 100 per cent a positive experience. I loved doing it. But you watch and it's largely inappropriate. "There's a lot of stuff in there that's not amazing through today's eyes. I think because people are still connected to it and care about it and I personally did not have anything but positive feelings, I still feel more on the proud side. Even though I totally understand - I don't know how I'd show that to my kids," the actor told Empire magazine. Asked whether the film can be made today, Portman said, "I don't think it could. There are so many things that... (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Lok Sabha elections threw up some unexpected results in Telangana and TRS would undertake a detailed review after the coming MLC polls, party working president K T Rama Rao said Tuesday. In an informal interaction with mediapersons, he said the Congress has won two seats with a slender margin. The results were not a setback to TRS, he added. The TRS has won nine of the 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana, while its ally AIMIM retained its lone seat (Hyderabad). The Congress secured three seats, while BJP sprang a surprise winning four. The results are seen as a dampener to the TRS as it aimed to win 16 constituencies (leaving Hyderabad) to play a key role at the Centre (in the event of a hung verdict) for the benefit of Telangana. TRS had swept the Assembly polls held last December, winning 88 of the total 119 segments. Rama Rao, son of party supremo and Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, said the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is one of the main reasons for BJP's vote share growing. There are multiple factors that influenced the outcome of Lok Sabha elections, he said. Rama Rao, popularly known as KTR, said his party workers need not feel disappointed with the results. With the Modi government returning to power with a huge majority, there is nothing that can be done at the Centre even if TRS wins 16 seats in Telangana, he said. The Modi government would not need any party's support, he said. The TRS would undertake a detailed analysis of the results after the conclusion of MLC polls (elected by Local Authorities) to be held on May 31, he said. He expressed confidence that the TRS would win a lion's share of seats in the rural local body polls (held earlier this month; counting of votes to be take up later). He denied that his cousin and TRS MLA T Harish Rao, a former minister, has not been given due importance in the Lok Sabha polls. The Congress and BJP had an understanding in Nizamabad (where his sister and sitting TRS MP K Kavitha lost the election to BJP nominee), he alleged. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The monsoon session of the Maharashtra legislature will commence here from June 17. This will be the last legislature session before the state goes to polls in October this year. The Business Advisory Committee (BAC) of both the Houses--Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council--also decided Tuesday that the additional Budget will be tabled on June 18, sources said. First two days of the three-week sitting will be devoted to the discussion on the Governor's address to the joint session of the legislature delivered in February during the Budget session. The general debate on budget will be held for two days. Supplementary demands will be debated on June 27. The Maharashtra government had presented an interim budget with an estimated revenue deficit of Rs 19,784 crore in February this year. The upcoming session will have 15 working days. It will conclude on July 5. Last year, the Monsoon session was held in Nagpur, the second capital of Maharashtra. All eyes will be on the election of deputy chairman of the Legislative Council and appointment of the Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Assembly. The post of the deputy chairman has been lying vacant since the term of Congress leader Manikrao Thakre came to end. The post of the Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Assembly fell vacant after incumbent Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil of Congress resigned during the Lok Sabha elections. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The National Commission for Women (NCW) Tuesday sought a probe into the alleged suicide of a doctor after she was reportedly harassed by her seniors with casteist remarks at a civic-run hospital in Mumbai and said it is "deeply disturbed" by the incident. Payal Tadvi (26) killed herself on May 22. Her family has alleged that her doctor colleagues had taunted her for belonging to the scheduled tribe (ST). Three of her colleagues have been charged with driving her to suicide. Noting that it is "deeply disturbed" by the incident, the NCW said it has issued a notice to Topiwala Medical College and BYL Nair Hospital in Mumbai. "It is a matter of serious concern. Considering the gravity of the matter, it is requested that the matter be investigated and Commission be apprised, about action taken in the matter at an early date," it said. The Maharashtra State Commission for Women has also taken cognisance of the matter and issued a notice to the hospital authorities demanding a reply within eight days about the action taken to implement the anti-ragging law. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made major changes in her cabinet on Tuesday following the drubbing her party, Trinamool Congress, received in the Lok Sabha elections. Transport Minister Suvendu Adhikary was entrusted with two more departments of Irrigation and the Water Resources Investigation and Development (WRI&D), she told reporters at the state secretariat. Bratya Basu has been given additional charge of the Forest Department along with his portfolio of the Science and Technology and Biotechnology Department, Banerjee said. Minister for Fire Department Sujit Bose was made the Minister of State of the Forest Department. Somen Mahapatra, who was the Minister for Water Resources Investigation & Development, was given the charges of and Pollution and the Public Health Engineering Department (PHE), she said. Malay Ghatak will now look after the Labour and Law department, the chief minister said. Rajib Banerjee, who was in-charge of the Backward Class Welfare Department, will also look after the SC, ST and the Tribal Affairs Department, Banerjee said. Senior TMC leader Subrata Mukherjee, who lost to BJP's Subhas Sarkar in the Bankura Lok Sabha seat, was retained as Panchayat Minister. Chandrima Bhattacharyya, who was the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Housing, was also given the additional responsibility as Minister of State for Panchayat Department. Former Forest Department Minister Binay Krishna Barman and Western Region Development Minister Shantiram Mahato were kept as ministers without any portfolio, she said. The reshuffle comes amid a stupendous performance of the BJP in West Bengal, where it won 18 Lok Sabha seats, only four less than Banerjee's TMC out of the total 42 parliamentary constituencies in the state. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said she will attend the swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi as prime minister on May 30 in New Delhi. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo told reporters at the state secretariat that the invitation for the ceremony arrived on Tuesday and she would be attending it as "constitutional courtesy". "I have spoken to a couple of other chief ministers and have decided to attend it. "There are certain ceremonial programmes under the Constitution. We try to attend such events when we get an invitation for the swearing-in programmes of the president and the prime minister," she said. Banerjee's decision to attend the ceremony in New Delhi on Thursday, in which Modi will be sworn-in as the prime minister for the second consecutive term, comes after a heated verbal duel between the two leaders during the just-concluded Lok Sabha election. Modi, who spearheaded the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) poll campaign in West Bengal, addressed several rallies taking a swipe at Banerjee by calling her "speedbreaker Didi". He also accused her of running a syndicate that indulged in extortion. The TMC chief returned the barbs, calling Modi "expiry babu", and charged him with failure on all fronts during the five years of his first term. Reacting to Modi's statement in an interview that she sent him kurta and sweets at least once a year, Banerjee said at election meetings that she would send the prime minister "roshogollas" made of mud and pebbles which would break his teeth. Besides winning 303 Lok Sabha seats on his own (the NDA tally being 352), the BJP came up with a surprising poll show in West Bengal by bagging 18 of the state's 42 seats, only four less than the TMC's 22. The saffron party leapt from two seats in the state in 2014 to 18, while the TMC slided to 22 from 34. Meanwhile, Banerjee made major changes in her cabinet on Tuesday in the aftermath of the poll results. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Shares of extended their losses for the second consecutive day, tumbling 36 per cent in two trading sessions after some of its officials were taken under judicial custody following search by the GST department. On the BSE, shares of the company plunged 20 per cent to lock in at its lower circuit limit of Rs 70.40. At the (NSE), the scrip tumbled 19.98 per cent to touch the lower circuit of Rs 70.50. On Monday, the scrip dived 20 per cent to close at Rs 88 on the In a filing on Saturday, had said that the Commissioner of Central GST and Customs carried out search and seizure proceedings at various premises of the company on May 23 and further inquiry was conducted on May 24 at GST Bhavan office of Vadodara. ALSO READ: Investors should exit Manpasand Beverages over weak corporate governance "Mr Abhishek Singh, Whole Time Director, Mr Paresh Thakkar, Chief Financial Officer of the company and Mr Harshvardhan Singh are under judicial custody of Authority on May 24, 2019. The company is contesting these allegations in accordance with the due process of law," it had said in the filing. In a separate filing on Saturday, it had said, "We would like to inform you that Mr Vishal Sood, Non-Executive Director of the company has tendered resignation from the post of Director with immediate effect i.e. 24th May, 2019. This resignation is mainly due to search from GST department." Meanwhile, the company's independent directors Bharat Vyas and Milind Babar, along with director Dhruv Agrawal and non-executive director Vishal Sood have tendered their resignation. The company told that Vyas resigned due to "pre-occupation", while resignation of others is "mainly due to GST search." On Monday, the company also informed the bourses about cancellation of its board meeting, which was scheduled to be held on May 28, "due to unavoidable circumstances and also due to want of quorum during the board meeting. Taking a swipe at Imran Khan, jailed premier Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam said Tuesday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not give respect to his Pakistani counterpart as he did not take his call in February when the two nations were engaged in aerial combat. Speaking at an event held in connection with Pakistan's 1998 nuclear tests here in Model Town, Maryam said Khan complained that Indian PM Modi did not attend his telephone call amid heightened Indo-Pak tensions. "I tell the selected and incompetent premier (Khan) as why Modi and other heads of state in the world do not give you respect. Because they know that you have come to power after stealing the people's votes with the help of someone. You dance to the tune of someone," she said, referring to the powerful military establishment. "Imran Khan... your status is nothing more than a puppet. You are stooge having no standing of yourself. You have no respect in the world," she thundered. Maryam said Khan used to call Sharif 'a friend of Modi'. "It was Mr Modi who came to Pakistan to meet Nawaz Sharif. It was Mr Vajpayee who came to Pakistan to meet Nawaz Sharif as he was an elected prime minister and the world give him respect. But in your (Khan) case, Modi is not ready to take your telephone call because he knows that you are a fake premier," she said. "Let me make it clear I will not call you the friend of Modi. We want peace with India. War is no solution to problems the two countries are facing," she added. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. Soon after the aerial combat, Khan said he tried calling Prime Minister Modi to convey that Pakistan did not want to escalate the matter. Maryam said because of inept and incapable prime minister Pakistan has become a beggar country in the world. "This inept premier has handed over the country to the IMF against some dollars." She said it is ironic that the man (Sharif) who made this country atomic power is in Kot Lakhpat jail Lahore and the man (Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto) who laid the foundation of atomic programme was hanged. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The medical report of a three-year-old girl, who was alleged to have been raped in Jammu and Kashmir's Bandipora district, has found insufficient evidence to confirm sexual assault, officials said Tuesday. The report had leaked on social media and the medical superintendent of SKIMS Medical College Hospital, Bemina said it was "authentic". In the report submitted to the investigating officer on May 16, the doctors who conducted the medical examination have said there are no marks of injury on any part of the girls' body, including the private parts. "The actual source of bleeding could not be determined as there was no evidence of any injury around the vaginal orifice. Also the blood stains were not dry blood but faint stains only and could not be scraped and sent for examinations," the report read. The report states that the stains were very faint, almost negligible. "There was no evidence of any trauma, injury, bleeding at or around the vaginal orifice or anal opening. Maculo papular rash can arise due to multiple of reasons," it said. The doctors said it was very difficult to cause full penetration into the vagina without causing any major injury/ tear/bleeding in a three-year-old child. "As per the detailed examination of the child, there were no marks of injury on any part of the body, including the private parts. There was no active bleeding from vagina or anus, the mere presence of the faint blood stains and a maculo papular rash on buttocks is not sufficient evidence to confirm that the child has been sexually assaulted," the medical report read. The medical superintendent of SKIMS Hospital, Bemina, Shifa Deva, said the report doing rounds on social media was authentic. "It is our report based on few queries from the investigating officer which we replied and we stand by our report. It is authentic," the doctor said. However, police did not comment over it, saying the matter was sub-judice. "That doctors have to answer in court. I cannot comment as matter is now sub-judice," Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Bandipora Rahul Malik said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three men suspected to be members of 'Bawariya gang' were arrested in connection with cases of snatching, theft and burglary across the city, police said Tuesday. With their arrest, police claimed to have solved 11 cases of snatching, theft and burglary committed across Delhi, they said. The accused, identified as Radhey Shyam (30), Babu Lal (26) and Pappu (26), all residents of Rajasthan, are members of 'Bawariya gang'. They were active in Delhi's South West district area, police said. Due to increase in incidents of snatching and burglary in South West Delhi, a police team was formed to nab culprits involved in such cases. The arrests were made following a tip-off that the accused involved in snatching and robbery will be visiting near Anand Property, Bangali Basti, Rangpuri areas, Deputy Commissioner of Police (southwest) Devendra Arya said. Seven stolen mobile phones, four snatched gold chains and housebreaking equipment were recovered from them. A scooter they were riding was also found to be stolen, the officer said. Later, four gold rings, two pairs of earrings, one silver glass, one silver plate, one silver bowl and one silver spoon were also recovered, the officer added. Babu Lal along with his associates Pappu and Shyam used to patrol on scooter or a bike in the areas of Delhi during day time, the DCP said. They used to spot soft targets and after snatching or burglary, they would leave the area. One of the accused would mislead the target and the other two would commit the crime after his signal, police said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A minor fire occurred Monday in the computer room of a school here in Maharashtra, but nobody was injured, a fire brigade official said. No student was present in Shree Mavli Mandal School, located in Charai area, at the time of the incident which occurred this morning. "Since students are having their vacations nobody was present in the computer room," said a senior official. The fire was put out within 30 minutes, he said. The cause of the fire is being investigated. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A person was arrested on Tuesday and over 4,000 kg of molasses, used for making illicit liquor, seized from two places in Hailakandi district of Assam. Personnel of the Excise Department conducted raids at Aeinakhal Bazaar and Aeinakhal Laltila areas and 208 tins containing 4160 kg of molasses were seized, a government release said. One person identified as Alimuddin Choudhury has been arrested, while another is absconding, the release said. Assam government in March had banned molasses across the state, after consumption of illicit liquor had claimed 158 lives in Jorhat and Golaghat districts. Taking a stern view of the hooch tragedy, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on March 4 had ordered the ban as molasses are used to prepare Silai, a locally made liquor. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Madhya Pradesh High Court's bench here Tuesday granted permission to a gang-rape victim to abort her nine-week-old foetus. Justice Virender Singh, presiding over the vacation bench, allowed the 19-year-old woman's writ petition, seeking permission to terminate her "unwanted pregnancy". "The petitioner is permitted to approach District Hospital, Dewas within a period of one week for termination of pregnancy," Justice Singh said. "Let the DNA sample of foetus be preserved (for use in trial of the case), he said. "In the present case, the pregnancy is nine weeks old," the bench observed and maintained that a medical board constituted by it has opined that it can be terminated. Advocate Dharmendra Chelawat said his client pleaded that she was in mental shock after being raped and wanted to rid herself of the "unwanted pregnancy", keeping in view her future. According to police, the woman was allegedly abducted and raped by two men in the neighbouring Dewas district. A trial court in Dewas is hearing the case. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The National Conference Tuesday claimed it will improve and surpass its 1996 tally of 57 seats in the upcoming assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir and form a "strong, stable and responsive" government. National Conference (NC) provincial president Devender Singh Rana said the recent poll outcome in the seats the NC contested is "testimony of the public support". "Given the support of the people, NC will improve and surpass its 1996 tally of 39 assembly seats in Kashmir, 15 in Jammu and three in Ladakh region," Rana told reporters at the party headquarters here. He criticised the state BJP over its demand for revocation of Article 370 of the Constitution and "twisting statistics" with regard to the just concluded parliamentary elections, saying this speaks of its fear and frustration in the wake of "imminent rejection by the people". Rana said the BJP leaders in their enthusiasm are forgetting that the NC did not contest the Lok Sabha election in Jammu and Ladakh. The NC supported Congress candidates in Jammu and Udhampur constituencies, while it extended support to an Independent in Ladakh region. All the three seats were retained by the BJP, registering over 46 per cent vote share and an edge in 27 assembly seats. "They have no reason to celebrate over the so-called edge in some constituencies," he said. Asked when he expects the assembly polls to be held in the state, he said "nobody has the answer to this question... I think the Election Commission also does not know. Only one or two persons in the country might be aware of it". He said the National Conference is ready for the polls. Alleging that Jammu has suffered most during the BJP's over three years of "misrule" in partnership with the PDP, he said the sagacious electorate has firmed up resolve to teach the party a lesson by power of their votes for the "betrayal". "The fear of defeat has unnerved the BJP leadership, which is why they are indulging in name calling and mudslinging. Political naivety and immaturity is hugely discernible in the BJP's discourse," he alleged, adding "this does not augur well for the democratic polity". He said BJP leaders are claiming that Article 370 is "illegal" but "I want to tell them that nothing can be illegal in the Constitution of the country. Such type of ranting shows their absolute ignorance, lack of knowledge and understanding of the basics of the country". Rana asked the BJP not to mislead the people on the Article 370 of the Constitution, saying it will stay there. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) on Tuesday gave four weeks' time to Vikram Bakshi to settle his dispute with state owned-HUDCO which is claiming dues of Rs 195 crore from the McDonald's estranged partner. A two member bench of the appellate tribunal headed by Chairman Justice S J Mukhopadhaya said this would be the "last chance" to Bakshi to settle the dispute with Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO). "We allow four weeks time to Vikram Bakshi to settle the matter with HUDCO," said the NCLAT. The tribunal also directed Bakshi to file a report on the development by filing an affidavit in the matter before it. Earlier this month, fast-food chain McDonald's and Bakshi had announced to reach an out-of-court settlement, buying out its partner's stake in their JV Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt Ltd, which operates fast food chain in northern and eastern India. Both McDonald's and Bakshi had moved to withdraw cases filed against each other before the NCLAT to settle their dispute, which was then opposed by HUDCO claiming dues of Rs 195 crore on Bakshi. During the proceedings, counsel Amit Sibal representing Bakshi informed the NCLAT that he has already paid Rs 66 crore to HUDCO and land was also in their possession. "We have already paid Rs 66 crore, and are ready to pay another Rs 70 crore" he said, adding that "4.65 acres of unencumbered property worth Rs 300 crore is already in the possession of HUDCO." Sibal further submitted that Bakshi has deposited Rs 10 crore before Debt Recovery Tribunal on this Tuesday. He further contended that the DRT order was no more a hindrance as he has already paid as ordered, and HUDCO was raising an issue with respect to the debt recovery court order. On this NCLAT said: "there cannot be a settlement in contravention of any judicial order", in reference to the order passed by the Debt Recovery Tribunal in HUDCO's case against Bakshi." Earlier, on May 9, the presiding officer of DRT II Delhi had directed Bakshi not to transfer his 3,100 attached share of Connaught Plaza Restaurant Ltd (CPRL), a Joint venture between him and McDonald's India. HUDCO had moved NCLAT, seeking a stay on the settlement till Bakshi makes the payment. The appellate tribunal also instructed Bakshi to explore the possibility of a settlement with HUDCO. Bakshi had given guarantee to HUDCO against a loan of Rs 62.38 crore to Ascot Hotels and Resorts for a commercial project in Noida, Uttar Pradesh in 2006. Ascot Hotels and Resorts defaulted and was declared as NPA in August 2011. To recover the loan, HUDCO moved the DRT in 2013 and requested to attach 3,100 shares (having a value of Rs 1,000 each) in CPRL, which were in the name of Bakshi. On this, DRT on February 2, 2016 issued "interim directions restraining Vikram Bakshi from alienating or transferring or creating any third party interest in the 3,100 shares of CPRL or any other quantity in the name of Vikram Bakshi till further orders. Later HUDCO came to know about the settlement between Bakshi and McDoanld's, it moved an intervention application before the NCLAT, where both have filed petition against each other. "The settlement so arrived at between the appellant (McDonald's India) and respondent (Bakshi) with regards to transfer of shares to the appellant without settling the dues of the applicant/intervenor (HUDCO) will cause grave and irreparable losses to the public exchequer," said HUCO, adding that it can not proceed without its approval. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) Tuesday directed market regulator Sebi to conclude its probe into allegations against Hotel Leelaventure by the company's two minority shareholders ITC and LIC. The NCLT's Mumbai bench comprising V P Singh and Ravikumar Duraisamy said the regulator should conclude its examination on the matter before the next date of hearing, on July 8. Earlier in April, ITC had sought a waiver of the 10 per cent minimum shareholding requirement to file a petition alleging oppression and mismanagement against the hotel management and its lender JM Financial ARC and also to prevent the premium hotel chain from going ahead with the ongoing sale to Canadian fund house Brookfield for Rs 3,950 crore that was announced in March. "We were suppressed of our rights as a shareholder. The postal ballot notice has not addressed many issues. It is a classic case of majority acting against minority shareholders using oppressive means, as they own 73 per cent. "We want protection for our shareholding so that the promoters cannot get away with a fraudulent deal," the ITC counsel had told the tribunal. He noted that in 2017, JM Financial ARC bought the debt of Hotel Leela from banks and got 26 per cent shareholding after converting the debt into equity. This led to the dilution of ITC's shareholding to below 10 per cent, J Khambatta argued. As per the information available with the bourses, ITC holds 7.92 per cent stake in Hotel Leelaventure as of the December 2018 quarter. Under Section 241 of the Companies Act, 2013, a minimum shareholding of 10 per cent is required to file such cases. The tribunal had issued notices JM Financial and Hotel Leelaventure to reply within three weeks and file rejoinders in two weeks thereafter. ITC said all major hotels of Hotel Leelaventure are being sold off excluding the flagship Mumbai property, which is facing a legal battle with the Airports Authority over land lease, and also a land parcel in Hyderabad, which the hotel group is developing with Prestige Developers. Under the deal with Brookfield, the Leela promoters will get over Rs 300 crore from the buyer under royalty and management consultancy agreements for the next five years. "We are seeking deal details or the valuation report but the company is not co-operating," the ITC counsel had added. The Securities and Exchange Board in a letter to Hotel Leelaventure had said it has received representations from ITC apart from Life Insurance Corporation. Earlier on March 18, Brookfield had agreed to acquire four hotels in New Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru and Udaipur, and a land parcel in Agra from Hotel Leelaventure for Rs 3,950 crore. The deal is yet to go through. The flagship Mumbai property is not part of the deal and together these five hotels have over 1,400 rooms. JM Financial ARC had filed insolvency application against the Mumbai-based hotel chain in January, which owes around Rs 5,900 crore to lenders. The Brookfield-Leela deal will also entail buying the Leela brand, existing and all its upcoming management contracts apart from absorbing the employees of these four hotels being taken over by the Canadian fund. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Apex child rights body NCPCR has directed the American multinational company Johnson and Johnson to immediately withdraw a batch of its baby shampoo that it said allegedly contained "harmful" chemicals, a claim refuted by the company which asserted that its products are "safe". Johnson and Johnson said its shampoo does not contain any harmful ingredient as "erroneously" concluded in a Rajasthan government laboratory test conducted with "unknown and unspecified test methods". A Rajasthan government laboratory had found presence of "harmful" chemicals in the US-based company's baby shampoo. A complaint in the matter was filed with the the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR). Taking cognisance of the complaint, the NCPCR in April had written to all the states and UTs asking them to test samples of J&J Shampoo and talcum powder. The NCPCR has now asked the company "to immediately withdraw the supply of the said batch, which was found to be not of standard quality." "As the alleged batches are still in circulation and may have been procured by the consumers due to non compliance of notice of Drug Control Officer (DCO) in Jaipur - (which had conducted the tests).... "Therefore an advisory should be issued in vernacular dailies including in English and Hindi across print and electronic forms," it said in its letter sent last Thursday. The NCPCR also said that in all commercials of the alleged J&J products across India, public should also be advised to refrain from that particular batch of product. "A compliance report of the above-mentioned directions must be sent to NCPCR by May 29, failing which action will be initiated under the provisions prescribed by law," the NCPCR said. The Johnson & Johnson, in response, maintained that its products are safe and its shampoo does not contain any harmful ingredient "as erroneously concluded in a Rajasthan government laboratory test conducted with "unknown and unspecified test methods". "We reiterate that Johnson's Baby Shampoo does not contain any harmful ingredient as erroneously concluded in a Rajasthan government laboratory test conducted with unknown and unspecified test methods. "We have challenged the test results and the samples have been sent for re-testing at the Appellate laboratory by way of a Magistrate Court Order. As the test report itself is controverted under Section 25(3) of the D&C Act, such a report is not considered conclusive," the company's official spokesperson said. The official spokesperson said Johnson's Baby Shampoo does not contain formaldehyde as an ingredient or any ingredient that can release formaldehyde over time. "Given that the re-testing process is underway with the appellate laboratory, no arbitrary action on the said two batches of Johnson's Baby Shampoo is, in our opinion, warranted," the company's official spokesperson said. India is a major market for J&J globally, and its share in the country's Rs 4,000-crore baby care market is nearly three-fourths. The NCPCR is empowered under the CPCR Act, 2005 to inquire into any matter concerning deprivation or violation of child rights and non-compliance of any policy or guidelines or instructions ensuring welfare of children. Further, the commission in addition to the inquiry initiated can undertake formal investigations of CPCR Rules. NCPCR has powers to recommend action, but it was for the state governments and union territories to take a call on implementation of the recommendation by the apex child rights body. Earlier in May, the NCPCR had also met officials of the J&J. "After discussing this issue at length with your officials, NCPCR was not satisfied with the reply provided by you (J&J) with regard to the compliance of the notice of the Office of the Drug Control Officer (NDNP)," the child rights body had said. "The Commission is unclear as to the steps taken by J&J regarding the prohibition of sale and issue of advisory regarding the said batch of JB Shampoo which was found to be not of standard quality," Raman K Gaur, senior consultant with the NCPCR had said in the letter to Vikas Srivastava, Managing Director of the Johnson & Johnson. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In view of recent dengue cases in the city, the civic body in North Delhi Tuesday launched an awareness programme on vector-borne diseases that will be carried out across all its municipal wards. At least 11 dengue cases and 8 malaria cases have been reported in the national capital this year. "North Delhi Mayor Avtar Singh today inaugurated an anti-dengue and malaria month and a dengue awareness programme for all 104 wards," a senior North Delhi Municipal Corporation official said. On the occasion, the mayor also inaugurated an exhibition organised at the site, in which the public health department presented various techniques, along with display of equipment, insecticides, a mosquito model, Gambusia fish, he said. Singh welcomed RWA representatives and solicited their support to help prevent the disease burden due to dengue in the upcoming monsoon season by spreading message. Stagnant water containers, unattended coolers and potholes which are potential sources of mosquito-breeding should not be allowed so that aedes mosquito-breeding is prevented, the mayor told representatives. Additional Commissioner Jayaraj Nayak said as per guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and NVBDCP, the month of June being the pre-monsoon season is chosen for creating awareness in the general public, on how dengue can be prevented. "No programme can be a success without active public participation and therefore the department besides intensifying its efforts to combat malaria, dengue and chikungunya, conducts regular intersectoral coordination meetings and RWA meetings. This is done to involve all stakeholders for the purpose," he said. Last year, 2,798 dengue cases were recorded by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC), which tabulates the data on vector-borne diseases in the city. According to the report, this year, three cases were reported in May, two in April, four in March and one each in February and January. Cases of vector-borne diseases are usually reported between July and November, but the period may stretch to mid-December. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Nepalese national was arrested after heroin worth over Rs 2 crore in the international market was allegedly recovered from his possession, a senior official said Tuesday. Shudama Gautam (28) was arrested on Monday night along the Indo-Nepal border by a joint team of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and police SSB official Amit Kumar said 235 gm of heroin worth Rs 2.35 crore in the international market was recovered form Gautam. He was handed over to the police and a case was registered against him. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Netherlands will continue "good cooperation" for investment and trade ties with India during the Narendra Modi government's second term, Dutch Ambassador to India Marten van den Berg said here Monday. Besides, the ambassador said the 2019 edition of the Global Entrepreneurship Summit will be held next week at The Hague, Netherlands, where 2,000 companies from over 120 countries, including 32 startups from India, will participate. The Dutch ambassador said he views the Global Entrepreneurship Summit as a stepping stone for the Tech Summit which is being organised in Delhi in October for which Netherlands is the Partner Country this year. The 2019 edition of the Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) is being co-hosted by the Netherlands and the United States of America, in the Hague from 3rd-5th June. It will be inaugurated by Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and US Secretary of State, Michael R Pompeo. "We have a very good and close cooperation with Modi Government, a good relationship between my (Dutch) prime minister and Prime Minister Modi. We worked very closely on economic issues connecting Indian firms with Dutch businesses. "Our expectation that we will continue this good cooperation for increased investment and trade relations between the Netherlands and India," Marten van den Berg said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Saudi Arabian cargo ship arrived at a port in southern France on Tuesday to pick up munitions, according to an investigative website, rekindling criticism of weapons sales to the Middle Eastern nation which rights groups say are being used in the devastating war in Yemen. The shipment was revealed by the Disclose website, whose reporting on a similar shipment of French weapons earlier this month led to pressure that prompted Riyadh to renounce loading the weapons. Disclose said the new shipment involved munitions for French Caesar cannons that would be loaded at the Mediterranean port of Fos-sur-Mer, near Marseille. "We are checking this out," Defence Minister Florence Parly told lawmakers in Parliament who assailed the government for allowing the weapons sales. "And if this is indeed the case, would it be surprising? No, because we have an accord with Saudi Arabia," she said. But a representative in France for the Saudi shipping company involved denied any plans for a weapons shipment, saying the vessel was picking up only electricity production units from Germany's Siemens, for civil use. "The reports about a load of weapons or explosives is completely false," the official told AFP. Rights groups accuse Riyadh of using the French weapons against civilians in Yemen, where around 10,000 people have died since it began its offensive in 2015 with its ally the United Arab Emirates. Several French lawmakers called for a moratorium on arms sales to Saudi Arabia, similar to the freeze enacted by Germany last October in response to the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. French officials say the weapons sold to Saudi Arabia have been used only for defensive purposes, rejecting claims that it is violating the Arms Trade Treaty that prohibits arms sales to countries if their use could lead to civilian casualties. "Yes, it's a dirty war, yes it has to be stopped, Saudi Arabia and the Emirates must stop" the fighting, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told France Inter radio earlier Tuesday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The National Human Rights Commission Tuesday sent a notice to the Delhi police chief in connection with a 58-year-old man allegedly jumping to death from the third floor of the Bawana police station building where he was called for questioning. The NHRC in its notice said, the police chief is also expected to explain as to why this "custodial death" has not been reported to the Commission as per its guidelines on the subject. "The NHRC has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports about a 58-year-old man, who was called for questioning regarding his wanted son, was found dead inside the premises of Bawana police station, Delhi on May 26. Reportedly, while the police claimed that the man himself had jumped to death, his family alleged foul play," the rights panel said in a statement. Rahul, the son of the deceased, is involved in two cases of attempt to murder and in another case of murder, and has been declared an absconder by a city court, officials said Monday. The deceased, Balraj, was a resident of Bajitpur Thakran near Bawana, the officials said. The Commission has observed that the contents of the media reports, if true, amount to human rights violations of the victim. "Accordingly, it has issued a notice to the commissioner of police, Delhi, calling for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks," the statement said. The Commission has also observed that the reported allegations levelled by the family members "appear serious in nature". "It is difficult to believe, as reportedly claimed by police, that a 58-year-old man after questioning went to have water before leaving, which is when he jumped to death from the third floor of the police station. "Apparently, the death has not occurred in normal circumstances. A thorough probe into the matter is required, to identify and punish the guilty as a precious human life has come to a tragic end," the NHRC statement said. The Commission is aware that generally, the police pick up family members of an accused to put pressure on him to surrender and the same has probably happened in this case, the rights panel said. Balraj's family alleged that he was beaten up at the police station and might have died of the physical assault. Police, however, have denied the allegations. The incident took place at around 7.30 pm on Sunday when Balraj was called to the Bawana police station. He was questioned about the whereabouts of his son, said Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer North) Gaurav Sharma on Monday. According to media reports on Tuesday, the man was picked up by police form his residence on Sunday as one of his sons was wanted in connection with criminal cases. Reportedly, the wife of the deceased who works at a private company, "was also picked up by the police" on the same day but was not allowed to meet her husband, the NHRC said. Allegedly, at about 7 PM, she saw her husband being pushed from the third floor of the police station. The DCP of the area, however, has denied that the wife of the deceased was picked up by the police, and reportedly, said that she had herself come to the police station, the rights panel said, quoting reports. "The DCP has reportedly stated that the deceased (Balraj) was called for routine questioning about his son, in the presence of his son-in-law. An inquiry into the matter is reportedly being conducted by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate," the NHRC statement said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The NHRC Tuesday sent a notice to DGP of Haryana over reports of a video of a woman allegedly being beaten by some Faridabad police personnel going viral on social media. The matter was also brought to notice of the Haryana Police on Monday by the State Women Commission which took strong view of the incident. "The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports about a policeman brutally beating a woman with a belt in Adarsh Nagar police station area, district Faridabad, Haryana in October 2018," the NHRC said in a statement. The commission said it has issued a notice to the director general of police of Haryana, seeking a detailed report, including status of the criminal case registered against the guilty public servants, adding that the response is expected within six weeks positively. Two head constables of the Haryana Police were suspended and three Special Police Officers terminated from service in the wake of surfacing of the video. A police spokesperson Monday said the incident took place in October last year, but it was not reported to police by the victim at that time. The video of the alleged incident went viral in the last couple of days, following which police got details of the case verified, he said. "The incident allegedly happened after the woman refused to disclose the information about herself and a man, who was with her in a park and had escaped when police personnel raided the place. The incident came to light after a four minute video of the same went viral on social media," the rights panel said in the statement. Issuing the notice to the DGP, the commission has observed that the content of the report are "shocking" and if true, raise serious issue of violation of human rights. Faridabad, being part of the National Capital Region, is considered to be one of the most advanced cities of Haryana, it said. "As reported, such a cruel and inhuman act of policemen against a woman in their custody indicates that the public servants not only failed to perform their duty, but also acted in unlawful and unethical manner, causing indignity to a woman in their custody," the statement said. According to media reports carried Tuesday, a case has been registered against the accused policemen on charges of wrongful confinement, causing hurt and insulting the modesty of a woman. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Dozens of gunmen riding motorbikes launched a bandit attack on two villages in northern Nigeria on Tuesday, slaughtering 23 people eating breakfast, residents said. Gunmen in the Kauran Namoda district of Nigeria's Zamfara state attacked the neighbouring villages of Tunga and Kabaje as residents ate a pre-dawn meal before daylight fasting began for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. "The bandits killed 23 people in the attacks," said local leader Lawal Isah Abdullahi. "The attackers chased people into farmland... but as they fled they shot them dead." Soldiers later accompanied villagers to collect and bury the dead. "We conducted funerals for the 23 victims this afternoon," Tunga resident Shehu Bello said. Residents suggested the attacks were reprisal after a self-defence militia killed a motorbike taxi driver and his passengers -- the wife and son of a well known bandit -- as they drove to the gang's hideout in a nearby forest. The gunmen, who appeared to want cash and have no known ideological agenda, have carried out repeated raids on villages, stealing cattle and food, burning homes and kidnapping for ransom. Rural communities have taken up arms to defend themselves, but these vigilantes are now accused of extra-judicial killings of suspected bandits. The bandit gangs are one of a string of security challenges facing Nigeria, including attacks from a Islamic State-backed Boko Haram faction and renewed clashes between livestock herders and farmers. This has left the military overstretched and seen President Muhammadu Buhari criticised for failing to protect lives and property. Buhari, who is due to be sworn in as president for a second four-year term on Wednesday, has promised to boost security. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India's policy of not having talks with Pakistan unless it stops cross border terrorism remains unchanged and no decision has been taken yet on any meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Bishkek next month, official sources said. India has not been engaging with Pakistan since early 2016 following a terror attack on the Indian Air Force base at Pathankot in January that year, maintaining that talks and terror cannot go together. Modi is attending the annual summit of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Kyrgyztan's capital Bishkek on June 13-14. Khan is also scheduled to participate in the annual meet of the China-dominated grouping. Government sources said no decision has been taken on any meeting between Modi and Khan on the sidelines of the SCO summit. "A decision on the issue will be taken by the new government," said a source. In a reflection of India's reluctance to engage with Pakistan, the government has preferred to invite leaders of the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) countries for the swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi as prime minister for a second term on May 30. Besides India, BIMSTEC comprises Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan. In 2014, Modi had invited all SAARC leaders including the then Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for his swearing-in ceremony, in a major initiative to reach out to the neighbourhood. Sharif's attendance at the swearing-in ceremony had triggered hopes of better ties between the two countries and there were several engagements between the leaders of the two countries. However, the ties derailed again after January 2016. In a carefully crafted move, the government has this time decided to invite BIMSTEC leaders apart from Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov, who is the current chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth for the swearing-in ceremony. "This is in line with government's focus on its 'Neighbourhood First' policy," the Ministry of External Affairs said Monday. On Sunday, Khan called up Modi to congratulate him on his re-election. It was their first telephonic conversation after the Balakot airstrikes. During the conversation, the Ministry of External Affairs said, Modi told Khan that creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism was essential for fostering peace and prosperity in the region. Recalling his initiatives in line with his government's "neighbourhood first" policy, Modi referred to his earlier suggestion to Khan to fight poverty jointly, the MEA said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) No decision has been taken on a possible meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan next month on the sidelines of a summit in Bishkek, official sources said on Tuesday. Modi is attending the annual summit of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in the Kyrgyz capital on June 13-14 where Khan is also expected to be present. "A decision on the issue will be taken by the new government," said a government source, without completely ruling out the possibility of a meeting between Modi and Khan. There has not been any meeting between the two leaders since Khan took over as prime minister of Pakistan in August last year. Another source termed as "entirely speculative" reports in some section of the media that the two prime ministers are meeting in Bishkek. India has not been engaging with Pakistan following the attack on the Air Force base at Pathankot in January of 2016, maintaining that talks and terror cannot go together. The government's decision to invite leaders of the BIMSTEC countries for the swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi as prime minister for a second term on May 30 also reflected India's reluctance to engage with Pakistan even as the external affairs ministry said the invitations were "in line with government's focus on its 'Neighbourhood First' policy." Besides India, BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan. In 2014, Modi had invited all SAARC leaders including the then Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for his swearing-in ceremony, in a major initiative to reach out to the neighbouring countries. Sharif's attendance at the swearing-in ceremony had triggered hopes of better Indo-Pak ties. The two leaders also met several times, including Modi's famous Lahore trip in 2015. However, after 2016 terror attack, the ties nosedived again. In a carefully crafted move, the government has this time decided to invite BIMSTEC leaders apart from Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov, who is the current SCO chair, and Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth for the swearing-in ceremony. On Sunday, Khan called up Modi to congratulate him on his re-election. It was their first telephonic conversation after the Balakot airstrikes. During the conversation, the MEA said, Modi told Khan that creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism was essential for fostering peace and prosperity in the region. Recalling his initiatives in line with his government's 'neighbourhood first' policy, Modi referred to his earlier suggestion to Khan to fight poverty jointly, the MEA said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress in Maharashtra Tuesday ruled out any pre-poll alliance with the Vanchit Bahujan Agadhi (VBA) or the Raj Thackeray-led MNS for the upcoming assembly elections in the state. After the ruling BJP and Shiv Sena's impressive showing in the Lok Sabha polls in Maharashtra, opposition leaders, including those from the Congress-NCP combine, held a meeting here to discuss their strategy for the assembly polls scheduled later this year. The Congress-NCP combine received a severe drubbing in Maharashtra in the recent general elections, bagging just five of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in the state. State Congress president Ashok Chavan along with party leader Vijay Waddetiwar, NCP leaders Ajit Pawar, Jayant Patil, Chhagan Bhujbal, Samajwadi Party's Abu Asim Azmi, PWP leaders Ganpatrao Deshmukh and Jayant Patil, Jogendra Kawade of the People's Republican Party (PRP), CPI and CPM leaders from Maharashtra met at the residence of Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council Dhananjay Munde. State Congress spokesman Ratnakar Mahajan said the meeting discussed the opposition's strategy for the assembly polls scheduled later this year. "Assembly elections will be a difficult task but we have fight it with all might," he maintained. Mahajan ruled out any truck with the Prakash Ambedkar- led VBA or Raj Thackeray's MNS for the assembly polls. "We maintain that VBA is the B team of the BJP and the MNS has no influence over voters," he said. The VBA, a social coalition of Dalits and Muslims, bagged 14.6 per cent votes in Maharashtra in the just held Lok Sabha polls and appears to have played a key role in the defeat of Congress-NCP candidates in eight to 10 seats. MNS chief Raj Thackeray, whose party did not contest the Lok Sabha polls, had vigorously campaigned against the BJP in the state. Thackeray had addressed nearly a dozen well-attended election rallies but failed to dent the BJP's poll prospects. Meanwhile, NCP president Sharad Pawar has convened a meeting of his party's leaders and lawmakers on June 1 to take stock of the political situation after the Lok Sabha polls, state NCP spokesman Nawab Malik said here Tuesday. The NCP bagged four Lok Sabha seats and the Congress just one. An independent candidate supported by the Sharad Pawar-led party also won, while one seat went to the VBA. The ruling BJP-Sena alliance bagged an impressive 41 seats. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Amid reports that Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy will reshuffle his cabinet to save the coalition government, the JD(S)-Congress Coordination Committee chief Siddaramaiah Tuesday said it would only be an expansion to fill three vacant posts. "No reshuffle, it is a kind of expansion. Three (posts) are vacant. There is plan to fill them," Siddaramaiah told reporters in Mysuru. On reports of some ministers being asked to resign to make way for the disgruntled, he said, "I'm not aware of it." According to reports, some Ministers may be asked to step down to make way for disgruntled legislators, with an aim to keep the government safe. The Karnataka cabinet which met on Friday after the coalition's rout in the Lok Sabha polls, had discussed the issue, which may also come up at the Congress Legislature Party meeting on Wednesday and AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal's meeting with Congress ministers this evening. Out of 34 ministers, Congress and JD(S) have 22 and 12 respectively according to the coalition understanding. Currently, three posts are vacant, two from JD(S) and one from Congress. Amid simmering discontent within the Congress, coalition leaders fear the BJP, spurred by the Lok Sabha poll outcome in which it bagged 25 of the 28 seats in the state, may poach some MLAs. Rebel Congress MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi's visit to senior BJP leader S M Krishna's residence here in the presence of party state chief B S Yeddyurappa on Sunday had fuelled the speculation. Jarkiholi, who has been hobnobbing with the BJP for some time, had threatened to resign from the party along with some MLAs after the Lok Sabha polls. The BJP had predicted the collapse of the coalition and increase in its tally in the assembly after the LS poll results, claiming that 20-odd Congress MLAs were unhappy and may take any decision anytime. Coalition partners Congress and JD(S) managed to win one seat each in the Lok Sabha polls. In an attempt to save his government, Kumaraswamy has swung into action and is trying to pacify some disgruntled Congress legislators personally. The Chief Minister on Monday had met Jarkiholi's confidant and Athani MLA Mahesh Kumathalli, and is said to have promised to look into their issues, including Jarkiholi's induction into the cabinet. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) and have agreed to further expand the China- Economic Corridor (CPEC) after the top leadership of the two sides held in-depth discussions on Phase-II of the ambitious project, the Foreign Office said on Tuesday. "Both countries underscored their firm commitment for early completion of ongoing projects and to further expanding CPEC," the FO said in a statement at the conclusion of three-day visit of Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan to Wang, 70, is a member of the ruling Communist Party of China's (CPC) powerful Politburo Standing Committee. He is also a member of China's Parliament, National People's Congress and the Central Foreign Affairs Commission, a key foreign affairs body of the CPC. He held detailed talks with Prime Minister Imran Khan and both leaders witnessed signing of a number of agreements/MoUs and inaugurated several key projects. "The two sides held in-depth discussions on Phase-II of the including industrial and agricultural cooperation and socio-economic development, and on deepening practical cooperation in tourism and people-to-people exchanges," the FO said. The CPEC, the flagship project of President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has added a practical dimension to the bilateral relationship and further fortified it. The FO said that the two countries also agreed to enhance bilateral trade volume in a balanced way. "In this respect, they resolved to implement the recently concluded 2nd Phase of Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA) at the earliest, according to FO. They further agreed that the early development of prioritized Special Economic Zones (SEZs) will play an important role in further enhancing economic relations between the two countries. The FO said that the Pakistan- all-weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership is unique in modern inter-state relations, marked by exceptional trust, mutual understanding and support for each other's core interests. It said Wang's meetings with Pakistani leadership were marked by traditional warmth and cordiality. His visit provided the opportunity to the leadership of the two countries to review the entire gamut of bilateral relations and exchange views on important regional and issues of mutual interest, the FO said. It said that the visit imparted a strong impetus to the further deepening of the time-tested friendship between Pakistan and China. "It has reinforced the consensus reached between the leadership in their earlier interactions on the multiple dimensions of bilateral cooperation and set the tone for future trajectory of mutual engagement," said FO. Pakistan also conferred its highest civil award, Nishan-e-Pakistan, upon Wang. The Chinese leader also visited Lahore where he met Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar and held a meeting with Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar, who hosted a banquet in his honour. Wang's visit was in continuation of high-level exchanges between the two countries, which have acquired an increased momentum since Prime Minister Khan's visit to China in November 2018 and his participation in the 2nd Belt and Road Forum in Beijing in April 2019. Pakistan has tried to downplay India's decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modi's swearing-in on Thursday, claiming that the Indian Prime Minister's "internal politics" does not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a part of the seven-member regional grouping. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Prime Minister Khan to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. "His (Prime Minister Modi's) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon)," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn "India's internal did not permit him to extend an invitation," he said. Modi and Khan are scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan next month. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in held on May 26 in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Khan after he won the general election last year and wrote a letter as well. Prime Minister Khan, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. "Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Mr Modi as a goodwill gesture," the Pakistani foreign minister said. "Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region... the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. "It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tension," Qureshi said. Prime Minister Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists, including a Pakistani national, were Tuesday killed in an encounter with security forces in the forests of Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, police said. Based on specific intelligence inputs, security forces had launched a cordon and search operation in the Kachwan forest area of Kokernag in the south Kashmir district, a police spokesman said. The operation turned into an encounter as the terrorists opened fire at the search party, he said. In the subsequent exchange of fire, two gunmen were killed, the official said. He said one of them was identified as Faisal Nazir Mir, a resident of Anantnag, and incriminating materials recovered at the site of the encounter revealed that the other was a Pakistani citizen. As per the police records, both were affiliated with the JeM, the official said, adding that Mir had joined the outfit recently. "The Pakistani terrorist, as per the police records, was involved in conspiring and executing a series of terror attacks on security establishments and many other civilian atrocities. He was wanted by the law for his complicity in a series of terror crimes, and several terror crime cases were registered against him," the spokesman said. He said incriminating materials, including arms and ammunition, were recovered from the site of the encounter. Police registered a case and all these materials were taken into the case records for further investigation and to probe their complicity in other cases, the official said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As Pakistan Tuesday marked the 21st anniversary of its atomic tests, jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif said that his decision to make the country a nuclear power has made its defence "invincible." On May 28, 1998 Pakistan carried out five nuclear tests at Chaghi in Balochistan province during Sharif's tenure as prime minister. The day is since observed as Youm-e-Takbeer in Pakistan. Pakistan's nuclear tests came days after India successfully carried out the atomic tests in Pokhran on May 11. "May 28 is an unforgettable day in the history of Pakistan. On this day, the defence of the country was made invincible when Pakistan emerged on the world map as a nuclear power," 69-year-old Sharif, supremo of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), said in a message which was shared on his party's Twitter handle. "Youm-e-Takbeer is a day of nation's honour. A sign of nation's unprecedented bravery, it also gives a message to the country's enemies that there would be dire consequences in case of any misadventure against Pakistan," he said in the message from the Kot Lakhpat jail where he is currently undergoing a seven-year-sentence in a corruption case. Sharif said his government was threatened with economic sanctions in case of the atomic tests. He also said that Pakistan was offered billions of dollars for not conducting the tests. "But I accepted all the challenges and went ahead with the tests," he said. The PML-N chief claimed that external forces hatched conspiracies against him for making the country an economic power for his approval of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor due to which he was being punished - first forced to go on exile and later sentenced to jail. "In the solitary confinement, I assure the nation that I will never compromise on the constitutional rights of the people, people's right to vote and country's security and sovereignty," he said. 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. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Pakistan government has sought the help of the World Health organisation (WHO) to probe the recent outbreak of HIV in the country's Sindh province, that has till now affected over 600 people, mostly children, according to a media report. Till now 681 HIV positive cases have been identified among the 21,375 tested in Ratodero town of Larkana district in the north-west part of the province. Out of the affected 537 are between the ages of 2 to 15. Health officials have attributed the cause to the use of unsanitary equipment, unsafe blood transfusion and rampant malpractice often at the hands of quacks. We are expecting a 10-member rapid response team from the WHO and Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to arrive in a few days and we will be able to know the exact reason for the outbreak of the disease in Ratodero, Zafar Mirza, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Health Services, was quoted as saying by the Dawn. The CDC is a leading public health institute in the US and works with several public health institutions in Pakistan. We have a hypothesis that they became infected with HIV either through unscreened blood transfusions or usage of infected syringes as they are usually re-packed and re-used in unhygienic conditions. Third reason could be the lack of infection prevention and control and unprotected sex, he said. Police last month arrested a doctor for allegedly transferring the virus to his patients. 17 quacks in the district were also held and their clinics sealed earlier this month. Mirza said they have ordered 50,000 more HIV test kits to screen all possible patients and three more HIV treatment centres being planned in Mirpurkhas, Nawabshah and Hyderabad in the province. He said that the number of reported HIV cases in Pakistan was much lower than the actual number of cases. According to estimates, 163,000 people were infected with HIV in the country but only 25,000 were registered with state-run HIV programmes and out of that, only about 16,000 came regularly for treatment and medicines. He recalled that there had been HIV outbreaks in the country in the past, including in Sindh in 2016 and in Punjab in 2008. Our problem here is that HIV is seen as a big stigma. We need to deal with it with frankness, Mirza said. According to a UN report, Pakistan now has the second-fastest growing rate of HIV in Asia, with about 20,000 new infections in 2017 alone. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistani troops fired from small arms and shelled forward posts in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district using mortar on Tuesday, officials said. "The Pakistan army, at about 1600 hours Tuesday, initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation starting with firing of small arms followed by shelling using mortars along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district's Nowshera sector," a Defence public relation officer (PRO) said. Indian troops are giving a befitting reply, the PRO said. The Pakistan army earlier in the day resorted to firing on forward posts along the LoC in the Shahpur sector in Poonch, the officials said. There were reports of firing of a few rounds from across the International border (IB) in the Hiranagar sector of Kathua district. On Sunday, a teenager was injured in firing by the Pakistan army along the LoC in the Nowshera sector. On May 19, assistant sub-inspector Satyapal Singh suffered splinter injuries when a mortar shell exploded near him when he was manning a forward post at Baloni in the Krishna Ghati sector in Poonch district. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Imran Khan government has filed a complaint of misconduct against some Supreme Court and High Court judges for hiding their foreign properties in countries like Spain and the UK, according to a media report on Tuesday. President Arif Alvi has sent a reference of misconduct against three apex court judges who, allegedly, did not declare their foreign properties in their wealth statements, The Express Tribune reported. However, there is no official confirmation whether the Supreme Judicial Council has received the reference against the judges. The references, prepared by the law ministry, were filed with the help of a former Supreme Court judge, the report said said. The wife of one of the judges purchased some property in Spain which was not disclosed in his wealth statement, the report said. Legal experts said they would see whether the spouse is listed as a dependent in the tax records of the judge. A complaint has also been lodged against a few high courts judges, one of whom allegedly owns inherent property in the UK. The cash-strapped Imran Khan government has vowed to bring back all ill-gotten wealth of people who have stashed them abroad. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi hosted the traditional 'Iftar' dinner Tuesday evening to celebrate blessings of the holy month of Ramazan. Individuals from all walks of life, including political personalities, community notables, Sajjadah Nasheens of several Sufi shrines in India, academics, writers, journalists, artists, civil society activists, Pakistani students and other prominent persons attended the dinner, it said in a statement. Acting High Commissioner Syed Haider Shah welcomed the distinguished guests. "While wishing them special blessings of Ramazan, Shah also highlighted the messages of sacrifice, selflessness and compassion which are inculcated by fasting during the month of Ramazan," the statement said. "The traditional Iftar dinner is hosted annually at Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi to mark the holy month of Ramazan and promote the message of peace and harmony," it added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) Chief Executive Officer Richard Morin resigned on Tuesday after differences with some board members. Morin's resignation comes at a time when the stock exchange is under pressure because of the weakening Pakistani currency against the US dollars and drops in direct foreign investments after the USD 6 billion bailout package signed by the government with the IMF which carries some tough conditions for the Pakistan economy. A notification of Morin's resignation was shared on the PSX website. Morin, a Canadian national, was the first non-Pakistani CEO of PSX and had joined in January 2018 during PML-N's tenure. An emergency meeting of the PSX Board of Directors (BoD) was held on Tuesday during which Morin submitted his resignation. It was approved immediately by the board, according to media reports. As per speculation, Morin had developed differences with the board after the PSX board of director had written a letter to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan about Morin, alleging that while he was the CEO in Pakistan, he was running a company abroad. During a Board of Directors meet on May 20, Morin had given a hearing on the show-cause notice served to him for alleged breach of employment contract by simultaneously operating his own wealth management company while being employed by the PSX. Wealth Management, a Montreal-based firm that identifies itself as independent financial advisers' had Morin as the CEO of the company and chairman of its board. Morin has said that there was no wrongdoing and he had declared his interest in Archer Wealth Management at the time of taking up his position at the PSX. Morin who has held several top positions in financial and investment houses is the second foreigner to resign as CEO of a major Pakistani institution. In the past, a German CEO of Pakistan National Airlines also left his job after corruption charges were brought against him. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Parents of 26-year-old doctor Payal Tadvi who ended her life, allegedly after casteist slurs by her senior colleagues, Tuesday protested at the state-run hospital in Mumbai where she worked. Other protesters also joined Tadvis mother Abida and husband Salman who demanded "strictest action" against the three seniors who allegedly drove her to end her life by "torturing her by ragging and hurling casteist abuses at her. Protesters belonging to the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi and other Dalit and tribal organisations are holding protests outside the BYL Nair Hospital here over Tadvi's death. "We want the government to intervene. The police are not taking any action. It is possible that Payal was murdered by the three women doctors," Salman said. Expressing solidarity with the protesters and with Tadvis family, Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad said he would visit Maharashtra if needed to "fight for justice for our younger sister. The Maharashtra State Commission for Women has also taken cognisance of the matter and issued a notice to the hospital authorities demanding a reply within eight days on the action taken to implement the anti-ragging law. The three women doctors at the hospital accused of driving Tadvi to suicide have sought a "fair probe" in the case. In a letter to the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD), the three Ankita Khandelwal, Hema Ahuja and Bhakti Mehare said they want the college to conduct a fair investigation in the matter and "give justice" to them. "This is not the way to do an investigation through police force and media pressure, without hearing our side," the three doctors said in the letter. MARD has suspended the three doctors. We have credible inputs that the three doctors made casteist remarks against Dr Payal Tadvi, who allegedly committed suicide. We will cooperate with the police for the further investigation, a senior MARD official said. Tadvi committed suicide on May 22. Her family has alleged that the doctors taunted her for belonging to a Scheduled Tribe. The three doctors have been booked under the Atrocities Act, the Anti-Ragging Act and the IT Act and Section 306 (abetment to suicide) of the IPC. Tadvi's mother had earlier said that her daughter had called her up on May 22 about her alleged harassment. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Political leaders in Tripura engaged in a bitter spat Tuesday over the clashes that broke out in the state since the announcement of poll results on May 23, with the Congress pointing fingers at the BJP and the saffron party shifting the blame to the CPI(M). Two persons were killed and several injured in the clashes that broke out in West Tripura and other parts of the state following the announcement of general election results. The BJP claimed that the two victims were activists of the party, but the police said it had no information about their political affiliations. Lambasting the saffron party, the Congress Tuesday claimed that its workers were attacked and intimidated by the BJP activists following the announcement of results on May 23. The BJP has bagged the two parliamentary seats in the state by a comfortable margin. Addressing a press meet here, senior Congress leader Subal Bhowmik sought the resignation of Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb over the "prevailing lawlessness" in the state. The Congress leader had contested and lost the election to BJP's Pratima Bhowmik from West Tripura seat. More than 25 Congress workers and supporters had to be admitted in hospitals, while over 500 party activists were forced to flee homes since violence broke out in the state on May 23, he said. "The BJP has let loose unprecedented terror in the state. Around 550 activists were forced to flee homes, while 27 others have been admitted to hospitals. "We demand Biplab Kumar Deb's resignation as law and order has collapsed in the state. He should take responsibility for the prevailing situation and resign," the Congress leader said. Tapas Dey, the state unit vice-president of the Congress, said funds have been raised to treat the injured party workers and fight legal battles. Dey also claimed that the police did not take action against the accused even after his party members filed several complaints in this regard. "While Tripura Pradesh Committee president Pradyot Kishore Debbarman donated Rs 10 lakh, other activists and supporters alos raised money for the treatment of injured. The fund will be used to fight legal battles too," he added. A senior police officer has confirmed on the condition of anonymity that over 100 complaints of clashes and violence have been lodged with various police stations in eight districts of the state. He, however, could not cite reasons when asked why no one has been arrested as yet. BJP spokesperson Nabendu Bhattacharya, on his part, said the claims made by the Congress were "baseless, imaginary and far from truth". "Our karykartas are not involved in violence. A group of CPI(M)cadres, posing as BJP workers, are creating turmoil in the state. They have also attacked people in minority- dominated localities to trigger communal tension," he said, squarely blaming the erstwhile ruling party for the violence. The BJP spokesperson also insisted that two of its activists were murdered and more than 25 party supporters injured in the past five days. "In West Tripura district, one BJP karyakarta was murdered at Fatikcherra area on Friday, and another near Banikya Chowmuhani the day after. We have reports that the CPI(M) cadres were involved in the attacks," he said, adding that the Congress has "maintained silence" in both the cases. Rubbishing the allegations, CPI(M) central committee member Bijan Dhar said more than 200 attacks and 88 cases of arson have been reported in Tripura since the announcement of the poll results. "The Left leaders and supporters have come under attack time and again. But nobody has been arrested for these attacks yet," Dhar, who is also the convener of the Left Front in Tripura, added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Constituents of Maharashtra's opposition grand alliance, which suffered drubbing at the hands of the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena combine in the state, Tuesday discussed the possibility of fighting the upcoming Assembly polls together. The grand alliance members also blamed the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) for being one of the key factors that led to the alliance's poor show in the state. Formed by Bharipa Bahujan Mahasangh leader Prakash Ambedkar and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, the VBA had contested all the 48 seats in the state and its candidates secured sizeable votes in many of them. The BJP won 23 seats, while the Shiv Sena bagged 18. On the other hand, the NCP won four seats, while the Congress was reduced to the lone seat of Chandrapur. AIMIM's Imtiaz Jaleel, a journlaist-turned-politician, won from Aurangabad, whereas Navnit Rana, an independent backed by the NCP, emerged victorious from Amravati. The Maharashtra Assembly polls are scheduled to be held later this year. "We discussed Lok Sabha poll results and upcoming Assembly polls. We, in general, agreed to come together. "We are yet to discuss things in detail and take final decision," Maharashtra Congress chief Ashok Chavan told reporters after the meeting. Chavan blamed the VBA for the defeat of the grand alliance and said the situation would have been better had the Ambedkar and Owaisi-led front joined the anti-BJP parties. Asked if the parties would approach the VBA to be part of the grand alliance for the Assembly polls, Chavan said it depended on whether Aghadi leaders are willing to join forces with the opposition. "The main issue is whether they are willing to be part of the grand alliance. We had tried last time, but they did not come together," he added. Chavan said there was no discussion on taking the Raj Thackeray-led MNS along for the Assembly polls. To a question, Chavan, who lost the Lok Sabha polls from Nanded, said it was up to his party to decide whether he should contest the state election. The issue of drought in parts of Maharashtra was also discussed in the meeting, the former chief minister added. However, state Congress spokesman Ratnakar Mahajan had earlier in the day said there will be no truck with the VBA or the MNS for the upcoming assembly elections. "We maintain that VBA is the B team of the BJP and the MNS has no influence over voters," he said. MNS chief Raj Thackeray, whose party did not contest the Lok Sabha polls, had vigorously campaigned against the BJP in the state. Meanwhile, Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana leader Raju Shetti, who also attended the meeting, said he called on MNS chief Raj Thackeray earlier Tuesday. "We shared our views. He had addressed a rally to benefit me (during the Lok Sabha polls). Hence, I met him after coming here," Shetti, who unsuccessfully contested the election from the Hatkanangale seat, added. The meeting was also attended by NCP leaders Jayant Patil, Ajit Pawar and Dhananjay Munde, CPI leader Prakash Reddy, Ashok Dhawale of the CPI(M) and Samajwadi Party's Abu Azmi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The chemistry that Chris Hemsworth shared with "Thor: Ragnarok" co-star Tessa Thompson helped the two actors navigate their dynamic in "MIB: International". The 35-year-old Australian star said working with Thompson, who plays Valkyrie in Marvel Cinematic Universe, is always a pleasure and he was impressed with the way she crafted her character of Agent M. "I think every time you play a new character, you find different personalities. I knew her as Valkyrie. I love that character but that character is vastly different from this one. So to see her in contemporary setting was great. "She is the lead in MIB, so she had a lot more for her to do. And just watching her craft this character and navigate the story was hugely impressive. She is widely talented and I hope to continue work with her," Hemsworth said during a press conference here on Tuesday. The actor essays the role of Agent M in the upcoming film and he said their working relationship was quite helpful. "After Thor: Ragnarok' and 'Avengers: Endgame', it is a gift being able to have a pre-established chemistry. It was a massive benefit in what we have been able to do in MIB due to having known each other's for years now. When asked if they would share a romantic equation on-screen in the movie directed by F Gary Gray, Hemsworth said the film is more about the friendship his Agent H shares with Thompson's character. "No romance in MIB. It is more about our friendship and what these characters learn from each other, he added. Sony Picture India is set to release MIB:International in the country on June 14. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Pune-based doctor and author Tuesday said he was confronted by a group of youth in New Delhi and asked to chant 'Jai Shri Ram'. Arun Gadre said the incident took place near Connaught Place on Sunday when he was out on a morning walk. Gadre was staying at the YMCA near Jantar Mantar and was to go to Bijnor to attend an event organised by the Indian Medical Association the same day. "I was taking a morning walk at around 6 am near YCMA and suddenly a group of youth confronted me and asked me to chant 'Jai Shri Ram'. As I was taken aback, I just said it. However, they insisted that I chant it loudly and asked me 'uncle are you not Hindu'," Gadre said. Gadre said he found the incident 'a little funny' and did not report it to police. The youth did not hurt him and that is why he did not register any police complaint, Gadre said. He said he later told a journalist friend about what happened. Gadre has co-authored a book about malpractices in the medical field and solutions to improve communication between doctors and patients. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rahul Gandhi is the best person to pull the Congress out of its predicament following the setback in the Lok Sabha polls, says party leader Shashi Tharoor while declaring that his party is "alive and kicking" and it is too premature to write its obituary. The Congress has no time to sit and lick its wounds as it must immediately pick itself up for the upcoming state elections, Tharoor told PTI. The party faces an existential crisis with the party president adamant on his decision to quit after the poll debacle -- winning just 52 Lok Sabha seats -- and its state governments facing an uncertain future. Tharoor, who scored an electoral hat-trick by winning from the Thiruvanathapuram seat in the Lok Sabha polls, also said he is ready to take on the job of the Congress' leader in the Lok Sabha if offered the post. The Congress still represents the only credible national alternative to the BJP and it will take its message to the country, hopefully under Gandhi's leadership, he said. In his view, the Gandhi-Nehru family will continue to command "great clout and respect" within the party, on the basis of the tremendous contributions it has made in shaping and guiding the party since Independence. The former Union minister said Gandhi has led the party from the front and still has far more to offer to the party. Asked about Gandhi's offer to resign and if he was still Congress' best bet in terms of leadership, Tharoor said attempts in the media to pin all the blame for the party's electoral setback on his shoulders are simplistic and unfair. "I think it does a disservice to the very complex challenges facing the Congress party to reduce it to a question of one person. "While Rahulji has bravely taken full responsibility for the defeat, we all are responsible for what went wrong and we all have a responsibility to ensure the party's revival," the 63-year-old leader said. Gandhi will easily beat any other interested candidate by a landslide if the party decides to hold a free and fair election tomorrow for the position of party president, he claimed. "That is the kind of place he has built in the hearts of the rank and file of the Congress party and therefore, to my mind, he still undoubtedly remains the best person to help rally the party out of the predicament it finds itself in and help us collectively move forward," Tharoor said. Asked whether a non-Gandhi could lead the party, Tharoor said others can rise to prominent positions in the Congress and a case in point is that the last two Congress prime ministers were not Gandhis. "Still, I have no doubt the Gandhi-Nehru family will continue to command great clout and respect within the party, just on the basis of the tremendous contributions they have made in shaping and guiding the party since Independence," the former diplomat said. Two former prime ministers from the Gandhi family -- Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi -- even sacrificed their lives for the nation and this is the proud legacy to which Rahul Gandhi is heir, he said. Asked if the Congress still remains a credible alternative to the BJP, he said, "It's far too premature to write any obituary for the party as Kerala and Punjab have shown, we are very much alive and kicking." Despite Congress' poor showing across the country, the party performed well in Kerala and Punjab, winning 15 and eight seats respectively. "I strongly believe that we have no time to sit and lick our wounds and must instead pick up again immediately and effectively not least because we have several state elections coming up, some of which are four or five months away," he said. Elections are due in the states of Jharkhand, Haryana and Maharashtra later this year. Tharoor said he strongly disagreed with Swaraj India leader Yogendra Yadav's recent "ill-considered" statement that the "Congress must die". "I genuinely and passionately believe that what the Congress stands for and offers the nation is fundamentally indispensable to the future of the country," he said. The Congress represents an alternate vision of the idea of India, an inclusive and pluralist vision, that reflects truly the heart and soul of the country, Tharoor said. Asked if he would take up the role of Congress leader in the Lok Sabha, he said, "If offered, certainly I would, but that is not for me to determine. It is clear, though, that since so many of our stalwarts have lost these elections, those of us who remain will have to pull our weight and take on extra responsibility. I am ready for that." Talking about polarisation playing a role in elections, Tharoor said certainly the party has to understand why voters chose not to vote in their economic self-interest. With unemployment at a 45-year high, farmers in such distress that record numbers are committing suicide, and small and micro enterprises are shutting down all over the country, one would think that economics would decide the election, he said. "...Why should a young man who voted for Mr Modi in 2014 in the hope of getting a job vote for him again in 2019 when he still doesn't have a job? And yet he did," Tharoor said. "Undoubtedly, the increasing religious polarisation was a factor. But it is not the whole story, I think. The larger-than-life personality cult around the PM seems to have convinced some voters that he is the only one to lead the country and keep it safe from real and imagined enemies, within and without," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Gujarat court has asked Congress chief to appear before it in connection with criminal defamation suits filed against him by the Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank (ADCB) and its chairman Ajay Patel. The complainants had moved the court last year after Gandhi and Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala reportedly alleged that the bank was involved in a "scam" to convert scrapped notes worth Rs 745.59 crore within five days of demonetisation announcement on November 8, 2016. Gandhi was on April 9 summoned by the court of Additional Metropolitan Magistrate S K Gadhvi to appear before it on May 27. But his counsel Monday sought more time for his client's appearance on the ground that the documents pertaining to testimonies of the complainants and witnesses were yet to be translated into English from Gujarati. Gandhi's counsel also submitted before the court that his client will be at Shantivan in New Delhi on May 27 to pay tribute to India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his death anniversary. The court then fixed July 12 for Gandhi to appear before it. It also asked Surjewala to appear before it on the same date. The court had issued summons to the two leaders on April 9 after finding prima facie evidence against them. The complainants have said that the two leaders levelled "false and defamatory allegations" against the bank. Based on testimonies of Patel as well as three other witnesses recorded on August 27 last year, the court had conducted an inquiry under section 202 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) before summoning Gandhi and Surjewala. The CrPC section deals with inquiry into a case to decide whether or not there is sufficient ground for proceeding. BJP president Amit Shah is one of the directors of the ADCB. The allegations were made by Gandhi and Surjewala on the basis of a response given by the Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development to an RTI query filed by a Mumbai-based activist. In the pleas filed through their lawyer, the ADCB and Patel had submitted before the court that the statements made by the two Congress leaders were false because the bank did not exchange such a huge amount of money. They had said the bank did not have so much (demonetised) money to exchange and claims of Gandhi and Surjewala were defamatory. RJD supremo Lalu Prasad on Tuesday termed Congress president Rahul Gandhi's offer to resign as suicidal and said it would amount to "falling into the BJP's trap". Gandhi's offer to step down as Congress president would not only be suicidal for his party but for all the social and political forces battling against the Sangh Parivar, Prasad said in an analysis of the Lok Sabha poll results, published in an English daily, the link of which he shared on his Twitter handle. Any new president of the Congress would be considered as a puppet of Rahul and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and the perception would continue till the next general election, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) president said. The moment someone outside the Gandhi-Nehru family replaced Rahul Gandhi, the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah brigade would paint the new leader as a "puppet" remote-controlled by him and his mother Sonia Gandhi, he said. Why should Rahul Gandhi give such an opportunity to his political detractors, Prasad asked. "Rahul's offer to resign suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India," he said in a tweet. After his party's Lok Sabha poll debacle, Rahul Gandhi had offered to resign on May 25 during a meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), which had unanimously rejected his offer and authorised him to overhaul and restructure the party at all levels. The CWC meeting was held in the backdrop of the Congress winning just 52 Lok Sabha seats and drawing a nought in 18 states and Union Territories. Gandhi himself lost from the family bastion of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, though he won from Wayanad in Kerala. Prasad, who was lodged in a Ranchi jail following his conviction in several fodder scam cases, is currently under treatment for blood pressure, sugar and kidney ailment at the Ranchi-based Rajendra Prasad Institute of Medical Sciences since December, 2017. On the opposition parties failing to build a national narrative, the RJD chief said, "All across northern, eastern and western India, they (opposition) fought it as though it was a state election. They failed to synchronise their strategy and actions. "The people were looking for a national alternative, which the opposition parties, fighting in a disoriented manner in their respective states, failed to provide," he said. Stunned by the rout of the RJD in Bihar and Jharkhand, Prasad skipped lunch for two days after the declaration of the poll results on May 23. This is the first instance after its inception in 1997 that the RJD could not win a parliamentary seat in Bihar and the second time in a row that it failed to open account in Jharkhand. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee will meet on Wednesday at party headquarters, a party spokesperson said. The meeting will be presided by the Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot in which AICC general secretary Avinash Pandey and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot will also be present, he said. It will be the first executive committee meeting after the party's debacle in Lok Sabha polls wherein Congress could not win even a single seat out of the 25 parliamentary constituencies in the state. Party leaders said that the meeting will brainstorm on the reasons of party's poor performance in the recent polls. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tamil superstar Rajinikanth Tuesday described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "charismatic" leader like Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi and attributed the BJP's massive win in the Lok Sabha polls to his individual leadership. He also said that Congress President Rahul Gandhi need not resign following the party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections, saying he was a youngster and perhaps had not got the cooperation of senior party leaders. Rajinikanth said he would be attending the swearing-in of Modi as Prime Minister on Thursday, following an invitation for him to participate in the event. The veteran star likened Modi to tall leaders of India, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, A B Vajpayee, K Kamaraj, C N Annadurai, M G Ramachandran, M Karunanidhi and J Jayalalithaa. "This Lok Sabha poll victory is a win for the individual leadership called Modi. It is the victory for a charismatic leader," he told reporters here. "In Indian politics, whether at the national level or state, any party will reap wins only on the (popularity) of a leader. He is a charismatic leader," he said about Modi. He noted that the country in the past had charismatic leaders like Nehru, Indira, Rajiv and Vajpayee. "After them (the country) has got Modi, a charismatic leader. If you see in Tamil Nadu, there were charismatic leaders like Kamaraj, Anna, Kalaignar, MGR, Jayalalithaa. Along those lines, this victory is achieved for the leadership of Modi," he said. However, the BJP lost out in southern states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu due to an "anti-Modi wave" though there was a pro-Modi wave in other parts of the country, he noted. "When there is a political wave, one cannot swim against it and will be swept away," he added. The reasons for such an anti-Modi wave in Tamil Nadu included the Sterlite issue in Tuticorin, methane extraction project in Cauvery delta and the "whirlwind campaign" of the opposition, Rajinikanth added. Asked if the issues surrounding NEET and GST had also contributed to the BJP's bad show, he said "definitely." On Congress chief Gandhi's offer to resign, the Tamil superstar said, "He should not resign." "I won't say he lacks leadership qualities. The thing is it is very really difficult to handle the Congress party, it is an age-old party where senior-most people are there.""As a youngster it is difficult to handle the senior-most people. Even I think, my observation is, the senior Congress leaders -- they had not cooperated well. They had not worked hard," he said. There was no need for Gandhi to resign as an opposition party was as important as the ruling one in a democracy, the veteran star added. "Now the ruling party (BJP) is very strong. I expect the opposition party should also be strong," he said. To a question, he said the Centre should immediately address the "water crisis" in Tamil Nadu and welcomed Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's statement that the Centre was keen on interlinking Godavarai and Krishna rivers to provide water to the state. Such a statement came from Gadkari despite the BJP's poor performance in the state, the top actor added. Asked about the performance of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), led by his contemporary Kamal Haasan in the Lok Sabha polls, he appreciated the party for securing nearly three per cent votes within 14 months of coming into existence. The actor parried questions on his floating a political party, saying "I have said that many times." In December 2017, the veteran star had said he would indeed make the political plunge and contest from all 234 Assembly constituencies in the next Assembly polls in Tamil Nadu, which are due in 2021. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The RJD on Tuesday refused to accept the party's poor performance in the just-concluded General Elections, saying the "result was obtained through conspiracy". The party's view was conveyed to mediapersons by senior leader Jagadanand Singh after a day-long meeting of senior party leader Rabri Devi and son Tejashwi Yadav with the 19 LS candidates of the RJD. Singh, who himself lost to Union minister Ashwani Kumar Choubey for the Buxar seat, said the party leaders reposed faith in Tejashwi Yadav. He praised Tejashwi for working hard in the run up to the polls, addressing 235 public meetings in total. He said Tejashwi, who is party president Lalu Prasad Yadav's younger son and heir apparent, has been successful in energising the youths. Singh said the party has constituted a three-member committee to analyse in detail the reasons for the poll defeat and the conspiracy angle. Besides Singh, senior RJD leader Abdul Bari Siddiqui and Bihar unit secretary general Alok Mehta are the other members in the committee, which would submit its report within a week, RJD state president Ram Chandra Purbe said. "We dont accept the poll result as the peoples mandate. We dont reckon the majority garnered through conspiracy as peoples' mandate. This is the result of conspiracy," Singh said. Singh, accompanied by RJD state president Ram Chandra Purbe, was talking to reporters here outside Rabri Devi's 10, Circular Road residence after the party meeting. The RJD spearheaded the five-party 'mahagathbandhan' in the 40 LS seats of Bihar. While the RJD drew a blank, Congress won just the Kishanganj seat in the state. Its opponent National Democratic Alliance won 39 seats. Singh said the party leaders reposed full faith in the leadership of Tejashwi, and said as per the party's national council, he will continue to lead the party till the 2020 Assembly elections. "The allies of 'mahagathbandhan' are not at all feeling demoralised or discouraged for 2020 assembly elections. We, rather, feel that the people had given mandate in our favour but the opponents garnered majority through conspiracy," Singh reiterated. Other than the RJD and the Congress, the Bihar mahagathbandhan consisted of the RLSP, HAM and VIP. When asked whether the party would take action against Tej Pratap Yadav for canvassing against party nominee in Jehanabad, where the party lost by a few more than a thousand votes, Singh evaded the question, saying he was raising a more important issue. The two-day meeting will continue on Wednesday with a meeting of grand alliance partners followed by legislature party meeting of the RJD in the evening, Singh added. Senior RJD MLA Maheshwar Prasad Yadav had attacked Tejashwi Yadav on Monday and demanded he step down as the Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly, taking moral responsibility for the poll debacle. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) "Sairat" fame actress Prerana alias Rinku Rajguru Tuesday cleared class 12 exams conducted by the Maharashtra board by scoring 82 per cent marks in the Arts stream. The actress scored 533 marks out of total 650, her father Mahadev Rajguru told PTI from Solapur. Rinku had appeared for the exam, held in February-March this year, at a centre in her native Solapur district. Rinku had scored 66 per cent marks in class 10. The national award winning actress's second Marathi movie 'Kagar' was released in February. Her father said Rinku was currently shooting in Belgaum in neighbouring Karnataka. When asked about her further education, Mahadev said his daughter would complete her graduation while working in movies. "Sairat", directed by Nagraj Manjule, tells the story of two young college students from different castes who fall in love, sparking conflict between their families. The film was a huge success at box-office. It became the highest-grossing Marathi film of all time. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The State Bank of India Tuesday held customer meet in Delhi to understand the issues and grievances of its account holders. The customer meet in Delhi addressed the issues of account holders from various regions, including Uttarakhand and western Uttar Pradesh, SBI said in a statement. The meeting was addressed by SBI's Chief General Manager of Delhi region Vijay Ranjan, who assured the customers about improvement in services. SBI also informed the customers about using its one-stop platform for digital banking and lifestyle shopping app, YONO SBI. The state-owned lender said the YONO app, which was launched in November 2017, has seen more than 2 crore downloads so far. The meeting was a part of nationwide customer meet organised by the bank. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court Tuesday refused to direct the Uttar Pradesh Police to conduct further probe in the 2018 Hapur lynching case. A vacation bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Aniruddha Bose said the trial court would decide the plea for seeking further direction to the state police to file supplementary charge sheet after conducting further probe in the murder case of 45-year-old meat exporter Qasim Qureishi. The bench was hearing a fresh interim application filed by Samiuddin, a relative of the deceased, in which it was submitted that further probe was needed in view of revelations made by two brothers of the meat exporter in their statements recorded under section 164 of the CrPC before the chief judicial magistrate of Hapur. Declining the plea, the bench asked Samiuddin to approach the trial court which will take a decision in accordance with the law. The Uttar Pradesh government had earlier informed the apex court that it had filed a fresh status report on investigation in the Hapur lynching case. The court had on April 8 asked the state government to file a status report of the investigation in the case in which a person was killed and another brutally assaulted in the name of cow vigilantism in June last year. The apex court on September 5 last year directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) of Meerut range to supervise the investigation in the Hapur lynching case. Earlier, Samiuddin had sought setting up of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to ensure "an impartial, competent and fair investigation" into "the barbaric incident of mob lynching on June 18 last year in Hapur district of Uttar Pradesh. The plea had alleged that Samiuddin and Qasim, both belonging to the minority community, were targeted and mercilessly assaulted by a mob of the majority community from the neighbouring village, in the name of cow vigilantism. It had further sought a direction to the state government to compensate the victim for his medical treatment. It had said Qasim had died as a consequence of the lethal mob lynching, while Samiuddin survived the attempt on his life but suffered multiple fractures, wounds and injuries. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan's top anti-graft body on Tuesday asked the accountability court to issue an arrest warrant against main opposition PML-N chief Shehbaz Sharif in corruption cases, saying he is roaming free in London. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) also asked the court to dismiss his plea for exemption from appearance, Geo reported. Shehbaz, 67, who served as the chief minister of the politically crucial Punjab province from 2013 to 2018, has been indicted along with nine others in the Ashiana Housing scheme case. He was arrested by the NAB in the probe on October 5, 2018 and released on bail on February 14. The NAB told the court that in London, Shehbaz -- the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief and Opposition Leader in the National Assembly -- was roaming free in London and, has submitted applications citing health issues All medical tests and treatment of Shehbaz are possible in Pakistan, the NAB said as it submitted its response to the accountability court in connection with the housing scam and Ramzan Sugar Mills case. When the court inquired about his return, his lawyer said that Shehbaz will return on June 11. Meanwhile, his son Hamza who is the Opposition Leader in Punjab Assembly, went to the court to mark his presence. The father-son duo were indicted in the Ramzan Sugar Mills case in April. The NAB in February filed a case against the two, alleging that Shehbaz misused his authority by using public funds for the construction of a bridge to facilitate the Ramzan mills, owned by his sons. Shehbaz became the PML-N president after his elder brother Nawaz Sharif was barred from holding the top party position and public posts. Deposed prime minister Sharif, 69, 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. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A team of Pakistan's top anti-graft body has quizzed deposed Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in Kot Lakhpat Jail for over two hours over the illegal purchase and use of more than 30 bulletproof government vehicles from Germany. A four-member National Accountability Bureau (NAB) team arrived at the Kot Lakhpat Jail (Lahore Central Prison) where the 69-year-old Sharif is serving a seven-year sentence awarded to him in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case. A source told Dawn that Sharif insisted upon being given a questionnaire, to which he would reply with the help of his legal counsel. Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and Nawaz's daughter, confirmed the investigation by the NAB team in jail where the former prime minister is being held since December 2018 after his conviction. In a message on her Twitter account on Monday, Maryam rubbished the investigation, point fingers at "fake Prime Minister" Imran Khan who used the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government's helicopter for personal use was above the law. Earlier reports said the NAB team will record the three-time prime minister's statement in the case of an alleged import of 34 bulletproof vehicles from Germany without payment of customs duty on any of them. The anti-graft body said the cars were purchased without duty for guests of the 19th SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) summit in 2016, Geo reported. The SAARC Summit, however, did not take place as India boycotted the meeting after the Uri terror attack. Later, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Maldives also pulled out of the summit, culminating in an indefinite postponement of the summit. According to the NAB, Sharif added 20 of those 34 cars to his own motorcade, and he and his daughter Maryam Nawaz also used the bulletproof vehicles for their personal use. Former Prime Minister and a member of the PML-N Shahid Khaqan Abbasi's statement has already been recorded, it said. The anti-graft body also said that officers associated with the foreign ministry misused their authority by allocating the bulletproof cars for the Sharif's family. 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. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The ruling TRS in Telangana is in an introspection mode after the unexpected Lok Sabha election shocker that's seen as a setback to the Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao. The Rao-led outfit welcomed into its fold as many of 11 Congress MLA since early March expecting them to further shore up the party's prospects in the April 11 Lok Sabha elections. But that was not to be. In fact, the move to get them on board may have backfired, a senior TRS leader said. Before the poll in Telangana, which has a total of 17 Lok Sabha segments, TRS was confident of sweeping the elections in the company of AIMIM led by Hyderabad Lok Sabha member Asaduddin Owaisi. And its hope sounded credible in many quarters as both the Congress and the BJP had put up a dismal show in the Assembly elections just four months ago. The Congress won only 19 Assembly seats in the 119-member House, while the BJP could bag only one. The TRS returned to power with a rich haul of 88 seats. "Admitting the (11 Congress) MLAs created mistrust in the people who questioned the flouting of democratic norms...sort of dictatorship (by the Chief Minister) that is going to happen in future. That was one issue talked by many people," a TRS leader admitted. "People who voted for (Congress) MLAs felt cheated. So, they wanted to teach TRS a lesson. With such a huge majority, there was no need for the TRS to accept Congress MLAs," another TRS functionary added. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the TRS bagged 11 seats and the Congress two. The BJP, TDP, YSRCP and AIMIM shared one seat each. This time, the TRS saw its tally going down to nine. The BJP and the Congress won four and three seats respectively. Sources in the TRS alleged "collusion" between the Congress and the BJP to defeat candidates of the party. The big shocker for the TRS was the defeat of the Chief Minister's daughter K Kavitha in Nizamabad and B Vinod Kumar, the party's deputy leader in the previous Lok Sabha, in Karimnagar. Both lost to BJP candidates. "The fact that people generally preferred national parties in Lok Sabha elections and sidelining of TRS senior leader and the Chief Minister's nephew T Harish Rao also played a part in the party losing ground," a TRS leader said. There was also a wave in favour of the BJP, he added. "We (TRS) are in a shock; how could this happen? Now, in the coming days there could be revamp and reconstruction. some exercise is going on," a TRS leader said. The TRS was expecting a hung Parliament and keen to play a role at the national level but the NDA coming back to power on its own strength dashed its hopes. In fact, Rao had spearheaded the effort to bring together non-BJP and non-Congress regional parties on a common platform for a collective bargaining power. "But the whole programme is derailed", sources in the regional party admitted. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Tuesday asked the Industries and Commerce department to execute 'Ease of Doing Business' in right spirit to facilitate flow of investment into the state, an official said. Chairing a meeting of Industries and Commerce department to assess quantum of investment in the state in the aftermath of Advantage Assam:Global Investors Summit last year, Sonowal asked the department officials to woo investors. Post Advantage Assam Summit, investment to the tune of Rs 57,437 crore have already been firmed up in different sectors, besides investment proposals of Rs 15,925 crore are in the pipe line, official sources said. The chief minister also enquired about the investments that have gone for commercial production and directed the I and C department along with other line departments to maintain a congenial atmosphere for companies to keep their production ticking. Sonowal also asked the department to take up business reforms action plan for the improvement of Ease of Doing Business in the state. Under the Assam Ease of Doing Business Act, 2016 a Single Window Agency was established and 405 Business to Government (B2G) services across 34 government departments are available online for clearance. Taking stock of the implementation of National Bamboo Mission in Assam, he asked the department and Mission Director to aggressively pursue different components of the mission like propagation and cultivation, product development and processing, promotion and development of infrastructure for bamboo market and skill development and awareness campaign. Industries and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary, Additional Chief Secretary Industries and Commerce Ravi Capoor, Mission Director Bamboo Mission Meenakshi Sundaram, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Sanjay Lohiya, Principal Secretary Rajesh Prasad were present at the meeting. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A speeding driver in Germany was saved from a euro 105 fine when a snow-white dove unexpectedly interceded on his behalf, masking his identity on speed cameras. The driver, who was not identified, was travelling at 54km/h on a stretch of road with a 30km/h speed limit, police in Viersen, near Germany's western border, said. The driver was caught on speed cameras - but his identity was hidden by the bird's wings spread in flight. A light-hearted police statement suggested that perhaps "it was no coincidence the Holy Spirit" intervened - a reference to the dove as a symbol of that aspect of God in Christianity. "We have understood the sign and leave the speeder in peace this time," the BBC quoted the police in Viersen as saying on their Facebook page on Monday. But the officials in Viersen added: "We hope that the protected speeder likewise understands this 'hint from above' and drives appropriately in the future." But since only the car, and not the driver, could be identified, he was probably spared the euro 105 fine "thanks to the feathered guardian angel with seemingly carefully spread wings". The Viersen police jokingly added that the dove should also have been fined for moving so fast in the restricted zone. "However, since we do not know where it has to be on time for [the upcoming Christian holy day of] Pentecost, we will allow mercy over justice here too," the police statement said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Budget carrier SpiceJet Tuesday reported a 22 per cent increase in net profit to Rs 56.3 crore in three months to March aided by higher ticket prices. The Gurugram-based airline had posted a profit of Rs 46.2 crore in the last quarter of 2017-18. Revenue from operations rose by 25 per cent to Rs 2,477.75 crore during the quarter under review as compared to Rs 1,995.04 crore in the corresponding quarter of earlier fiscal, SpiceJet said in a release. For the full 2018-19 fiscal, the airline, however, reported a net loss of Rs 316.1 crore as against a profit of Rs 566.66 crore in the previous financial year. "SpiceJet has posted a strong recovery in the last two quarters after suffering a loss of Rs 427.5 crore in the first two quarters due to a steep increase in fuel costs and sudden depreciation of the rupee. "This recovery comes despite the unprecedented challenges we faced during the March quarter which saw the grounding of as many as 13 of our MAX planes," SpiceJet Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh said. "With a massive fleet expansion this fiscal, a favourable operating environment, a likely return of the B737 MAX in July, significant improvements in yields and prime slots at key airports, we are confident of a strong performance for FY2020," he added. The average fare during the quarter was up by 11 per cent, the airline said. SpiceJet added 25 aircraft in April and May that took its fleet size to 100 as on May 28, the company said. The airline, at present, operates 584 daily flights. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) : Real estate developer SPR Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Chennai Apparel Association here to set up 100 shops at the proposed "Market of India." SPR Group planned to set up an integrated township in Tamil Nadu SPR City, which would have the first-of-its-kind organised wholesale trade centre 'Market of India". SPR Group Managing Director Hitesh Kawad exchanged documents with Chennai Apparel Association President Bharat Sarda at a function here, a press release said. SPR Group had made similar arrangments with bathroom and lighting fitments maker Jaquar Group for an experience centre at the Market of India. "The MoU between the largest apparel association in Tamil Nadu and Market of India marks a major milestone in fulfilling the vision of making India one among the top trade desinations in the world." Kawad said in a company statement. On the setting up of 100 textile shops, CAA President Bharat Sarda said "we will ensure that all types of and all strata of garment manufacturers and retailers will be presented under one roof and thus will boost business growth in the sector". Chennai Apparel Association tie up with Market of India was expected to provide a global opportunity for all its member organisations to expand their business, it added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least 12 people died and around 40 others were taken ill after consuming spurious liquor in Uttar Pradesh's Barabanki district, officials said on Tuesday. The incident prompted the Adityanath government to order a high-level probe to look into all angles, including the possibility of a political conspiracy. Four members of a family are said to be among those who died in the incident that took place on Monday night. Heads rolled after the incident with authorities suspending 10 excise and two police officials. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for each of the deceased and ordered a high-level probe to look into all angles, including political conspiracy and submit a report within 48 hours, UP government spokesperson and cabinet minister Siddhart Nath Singh said. Locals belonging to Raniganj and adjoining villages consumed liquor purchased from a shop in Ramnagar area on Monday night and were rushed to Ramnagar Community Health Centre (CHC) after they were taken ill early Tuesday morning, police said. At least 16 of those taken ill have been referred to the King George Medical University Hospital in Lucknow where they were undergoing dialysis while 5-6 others were being brought to Balrampur and Ram Manohar Lohia hospitals in Lucknow, Singh said. He said directives have been issued to ensure all possible medical facilities to those undergoing treatment in hospitals. UP Excise Minister Jai Pratap Singh said the excise commissioner, joint and deputy commissioners have rushed to the spot and further information was awaited. District Excise Officer, Barabanki, Shiv Narayan Dube, Excise Inspector Ramtirath Maurya, three head constables and five constables of the excise department have been suspended with immediate effect, the excise minister said. Police Circle Officer Pawan Gautam and Station House Officer Rajesh Kumar Singh have also been suspended on charges of dereliction of duty. The chief minister has taken serious note of the incident and directed senior officials to take stern action against all those found guilty, a senior government official said. The chief minister has set up a high-level committee comprising Commissioner and IG (Ayodhya) and Excise Commissioner to probe into the incident to fix responsibility and identify lax employees. The committee will also look into any political conspiracy angle into the Barabanki incident as had been seen in some incidents of similar nature in the past, Singh said. After a major hooch tragedy in two adjoining districts in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh earlier this year that claimed around 100 lives, Adityanath had suggested the involvement of the Samajwadi Party in "such mischievous acts" and had warned of stern action against all those found involved in illicit liquor trade even if they were associated with any political party. "In the past too, such types of mischievous acts by SP leaders had come to the fore. In Azamgarh, Hardoi, Kanpur and Barabanki, SP leaders were found to be involved in past hooch tragedies. We can't deny conspiracy this time too," Adityanath had told reporters in the aftermath of the tragedy in Saharanpur in February. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Six people died and at least 20 others were taken ill after consuming in the district, prompting the government to order a high-level probe to look into all angles including possibility of a political conspiracy, officials said Tuesday. Four members of a family are said to be among those who died in the incident that took place on Monday night. Heads rolled after the incident with authorities suspending 10 excise and two police officials. Chief Minister announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for each of the deceased and ordered a high-level probe to look into all angles, including political conspiracy and submit a report within 48 hours, UP government spokesperson and cabinet minister Siddhart Nath Singh said. Locals belonging to Raniganj and adjoining villages consumed purchased from a shop in Ramnagar area on Monday night and were rushed to Ramnagar Community Health Centre (CHC) after they were taken ill early Tuesday morning, police said. At least 16 of those taken ill have been referred to the King George Medical University Hospital in Lucknow where they were undergoing dialysis while 5-6 others were being brought to Balrampur and Ram Manohar Lohia hospitals in Lucknow, Singh said. He said directives have been issued to ensure all possible medical facilities to those undergoing treatment in hospitals. UP Excise Minister Jai Pratap Singh said the excise commissioner, joint and deputy commissioners have rushed to the spot and further information was awaited. District Excise Officer, Barabanki, Shiv Narayan Dube, Excise Inspector Ramtirath Maurya, three head constables and five constables of the excise department have been suspended with immediate effect, the excise minister said. Police Circle Officer Pawan Gautam and Station House Officer Rajesh Kumar Singh have also been suspended on charges of dereliction of duty. The chief minister has taken serious note of the incident and directed senior officials to take stern action against all those found guilty, a senior government official said. The chief minister has set up a high-level committee comprising Commissioner and IG (Ayodhya) and Excise Commissioner to probe into the incident to fix responsibility and identify lax employees. The committee will also look into any political conspiracy angle into the Barabanki incident as had been seen in some incidents of similar nature in the past, Singh said. After a major hooch tragedy in two adjoining districts in Uttarakhand and earlier this year that claimed around 100 lives, Adityanath had suggested the involvement of the Samajwadi Party in "such mischievous acts" and had warned of stern action against all those found involved in illicit trade even if they were associated with any political party. "In the past too, such types of mischievous acts by SP leaders had come to the fore. In Azamgarh, Hardoi, Kanpur and Barabanki, SP leaders were found to be involved in past hooch tragedies. We can't deny conspiracy this time too," Adityanath had told reporters in the aftermath of the tragedy in Saharanpur in February. South Africa: Spotlight on child protection South Africa is set to commemorate national Child Protection Week, which aims to raise awareness of the rights of children. Now in its 22nd year, the campaign -- which kicks off on Sunday until 9 June -- will be observed under the theme 'Let Us Protect All Children to Move South Africa Forward. The Department of Social Development on Monday urged South Africans from all walks of life to participate in the campaign and to take real action in protecting children within families and communities. The campaign will start with the commemoration of International Childrens Day on Saturday, where children will hand over the Childrens Manifesto to government and other entities entrusted with the protection of the rights of children. The manifesto urges the incoming sixth administration and all spheres of government to translate the childrens rights enshrined in the Constitution into a living reality. Social Development said it is working jointly with the Nelson Mandela Childrens Fund, Save the Children South Africa and South African Human Rights Commission to strengthen child participation and to make the voice of children heard. Over the years, the CPW campaign has helped to ensure that government and all key sectors of South African society work together to ensure the protection and promotion of the rights of children, the department said. Despite the impressive progress that government has made in promoting and protecting the rights of children, significant challenges still remain, more so in the area of child protection. The department said key areas of concern include child trafficking for child labour and sexual exploitation, children in conflict with the law, children living and working in the streets, child poverty and access to educational opportunities for children with disabilities, undocumented and unaccompanied children, amongst others. The department said their activities this year will highlight the initiatives spearheaded by government and civil society organisations, with specific focus on the most vulnerable children, including those with disabilities. The official closing of the CPW campaign will take place on Sunday, 9 June in eMalahleni, Mpumalanga. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Sri Lanka on Tuesday signed a deal with India and Japan to develop a deep-sea container terminal in the country that has seen increasing forays by which has taken a strategic port on a 99-year lease that has worried New Delhi. The three countries will jointly build the East Container Terminal at the Port of Colombo. Sri Lanka's Port Authority (SLPA) said that around 70 per cent of Colombo Port's transshipment business is India related while Japan had cooperated since the 1980s to develop the port's container terminals. SLPA retains 100 per cent ownership of the East Container Terminal. The Terminal Operations Company (TOC) conducting all East Container Terminal operations is jointly owned; Sri Lanka retains a 51 per cent stake, and the joint venture partners purchase a 49 per cent stake. "As a hub of the Indian ocean, the development of Sri Lanka and openness of its ports are of great importance. Colombo port is the leading port in region. This joint project reflects the long standing goodwill and cooperation among the three countries," the SLPA said. The three countries are to work out details of the deal at joint working group meetings to be held inn the future. The involvement of India and Japan is the project is being seen as a big development aimed at neutralising the growing influence of China, which has poured money into the South Asian island nation under its mammoth Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) infrastructure plan. Sri Lanka has been one of the countries which became part of the China's Belt and Road Initiative, an ambitious plan announced in 2013 by President Xi Jinping to build an estimated USD 1 trillion of infrastructure to support increased trade and economic ties and further China's interests around the globe. However, China's politically controversial investments in Sri Lanka became an election issue in 2015 and fuelled infighting between politicians in the capital. India, the US and several other countries have been highlighting the concerns over the BRI projects which may leave a number of smaller countries in debt traps. The concerns grew louder after took over Sri Lanka's on a 99-year lease. India's involvement in the latest project also became a reason for political infighting in the country. In September last year, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena's reported opposition to India being given a stake in the East Container Terminal had created a political uproar. During a heated argument with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in the Cabinet, Sirisena had argued against partnering India on the basis that it would be lucrative for Sri Lanka to do it themselves. Sirisena was backing his Freedom Party accusations against his coalition partner Wickremesinghe's government of selling state assets. The dispute was one of the reasons which led to Sirisena's sacking of Wickremesinghe late October. Wickremesinghe was reinstated in December. Taiwan has landed war planes on a normally busy highway to simulate a response to a Chinese attack on its airfields. Tuesday's exercise is part of annual drills designed to showcase the island's military capabilities and resolve to repel an attack from across the Taiwan Strait amid perceptions of a rising threat. China considers the island its own territory, to be annexed by force if necessary. President Tsai Ing-wen presided at the exercise in the southern county of Changhua. She said China's long-distance training exercises, including sending fighter jets to circle the island, were threatening regional peace and stability, requiring Taiwan to maintain a high degree of vigilance. Aircraft deployed included US-made F-16, French Mirage 2000 and Taiwan-made IDF fighter jets and US-made E-2K airborne early warning aircraft. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A court here Tuesday awarded life imprisonment to a tutor for sodomising over 25 minor boy students over a period of six years. Ramiz Raja was convicted under sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act by the POCSO court-3. Magistrate Rajesh Kumar awarded life imprisonment to the teacher under the POCSO act. "Raja sodomised the students who used to go to his home for tuition classes. He made video clippings of the crime and had been asking the students to bring money for him," the counsel of one of the victims, Aslam Khan, said. He circulated some clippings on social media and parents of one of the victims saw it, following which an FIR was lodged in February 2017. Besides Raja, a private school owner, Sarwar Alam, was also booked in the case but he was acquitted by the court. The counsel said that Raja sodomised more than 25 minor students between 2011-17. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three workers were injured, two of them seriously, in a fire triggered by an explosion in an industrial unit in Maharashtra's Palghar district, an MIDC official said Tuesday. The explosion occurred in a reactor of the chemical unit in Boisar MIDC in Tarapur Monay midnight, said Dinesh Ambure, Assistant Station Officer (ASO), Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), Boisar. The injured workers were admitted in hospitals in Tarapur and Mumbai. The fire was brought under control after an hour. Further investigation is underway. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami Tuesday offered prayers at the famous Lord Venkateswara near here. He took part in the Astadala Paadapadmaradhana ritual conducted for the presiding deity inside the sanctum sanctorum this morning, a temple official told PTI. Palaniswami was accompanied by his wife and other family members. After offering prayers, he was honoured with a sacred silk cloth and prasadam by the temple management. He later left for Chennai. Security was tightened in view of Palaniswami's visit. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rich tributes were paid Tuesday to TDP founder and former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh N T Rama Rao by his family members, TDP leaders and workers in Hyderabad and other places in Telangana on the occasion of his 96th birth anniversary. TDP's Telangana unit president L Ramana and other leaders and workers paid homage to NTR at the NTR Ghat near the Hussain Sagar lake in the city. NTR's family members, including grandsons Junior NTR and Kalyan Ram, both popular Telugu film stars, N Brahmani, a granddaughter of NTR and daughter-in-law of TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, NTR's widow Lakshmi Parvathi, paid floral tributes at 'NTR Ghat.' Addressing workers at the TDP office here, Ramana said NTR, who was born in an agricultural family, rose to become an uncrowned king in the Telugu film industry. NTR brought path-breaking changes in politics and administration, he said. It was NTR who made the world know the greatness of Telugus, TDP polit bureau member Ravula Chandrasekhar Reddy said, according to a TDP release. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) British super bike brand Triumph Motorcycles Tuesday launched its all new Scrambler 1200 XC bike in the country, priced at Rs 10.73 lakh (ex-showroom). The latest offering from Triumph comes with added features such as integrated GoPro control system, turn-by-turn navigation system, bluetooth phone and music operation, the release said. "Modern classic continue to be Triumph's largest selling motorcycles in India with a contribution of around 55 per cent in the total volume. The all new Scrambler 1200 further strengthens and completes the modern classic portfolio of the company in the country," Triumph Motorcycles India General Manager Shoeb Farooq said. * * * SOTC Travel partners with OYO to launch HomestaysSOTC Travel Tuesday announced the launch of Homestays in partnership with OYO Hotels & Homes to provide accommodation to domestic travellers. The homestays will be available in 16 cities across the country, including Kochi, Lonavala, Dehradun, Dharamshala, Pondicherry, Coorg, Udaipur, Mount Abu, Bhubaneswar, among others. SOTC Travel is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India). * * * * * Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance gross written premium up 17% in FY19 Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Tuesday said it has registered a 17 per cent growth in gross written premium in 2018-19 at Rs 8,857 crore. Its new business premium grew 25 per cent as against an industry average of 9 per cent and 12.5 per cent for private sector peers, an official statement said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) President Donald Trump is giving Memorial Day remarks to more than 800 members of the US military aboard the USS Wasp stationed in Japan. Trump called them the "daring and mighty warriors in the Pacific" Ocean. He says the US-Japan alliance has never been stronger. Trump says the United States endures because of brave men and women who are willing to sacrifice to defend the nation. First lady Melania Trump introduced the president and the U.S. forces shouted "U.S.A. U.S.A." A fighter plane, illuminated with red, white and blue lights, was parked nearby. Just before landing aboard the ship, he flew Marine One to a Japanese destroyer to meet with Japanese forces. President Donald Trump had an American-style greeting for Japanese forces when he saw them aboard their warship near Tokyo. Trump told them "Happy Memorial Day!" a message that seemed more fitting for Americans back home who were honoring those killed while defending the United States. Aboard the Japanese J.S. Kaga destroyer, Trump said, "I want to start by saying happy Memorial Day." Also aboard were first lady Melania Trump, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his wife, Akie. It was the last day of Trump's four-day trip to Japan. After leaving the ship, he and Mrs. Trump flew by helicopter to their next stop aboard the USS Wasp, anchored nearby. President Donald Trump landed aboard a Japanese destroyer south of Tokyo where he was greeted by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Japanese forces. Speaking on the deck of the J.S. Kaga docked at Yokosuka, Abe spoke of the strong alliance between the United States and Japan. Abe says the fact that he and Trump are standing together on the ship is evidence of the "robust" nature of that alliance. Trump, who was joined by first lady Melania Trump, thanked the Japanese forces and said they had been honored to meet Japan's new emperor and empress. He also sent condolences to those injured when a man swinging a knife attacked commuters waiting at a crowded bus stop on Tuesday just outside Tokyo, injuring 19 people. President Donald Trump will be heading home from Japan Tuesday after stopping aboard a U.S. warship to give a Memorial Day speech to U.S. forces. Trump will land aboard on two vessels near a base in nearby Yokosuka. One is the Japanese destroyer J.S. Kaga where he'll be joined by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The other is the USS Wasp, a multipurpose amphibious assault ship where he'll deliver Memorial Day remarks to the troops. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako also are expected to visit with Trump and first lady Melania Trump. The U.S. honored its fallen on Memorial Day on Monday. Trump has been criticized for skipping visits to cemeteries to honor U.S. troops, but he placed flags on graves in Arlington Cemetery last week before leaving for Japan. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two people including a schoolgirl were stabbed to death and more than a dozen injured in Japan on Tuesday in a rampage that targeted children as they waited for a bus. The attacker, a man in his 50s who has not yet been identified, crept silently up behind a group of children at the bus stop and slashed randomly at them before fatally stabbing himself in the neck. Police said an 11-year-old schoolgirl named Hanako Kuribayashi and a 39-year-old parent, identified as government official Satoshi Oyama, died in the attack, which shocked a country where violent crime is rare. Seventeen more people, mainly young children, were injured, according to authorities who had previously given the schoolgirl's age as 12. Koji Shimazu of the St. Marianna University School of Medicine, told AFP that one woman in her 40s and three schoolgirls had to undergo surgery for knife wounds to the head and neck. "It is a very harrowing case. I feel strong anger," Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said in televised remarks. "I offer my heartfelt condolences to the victims and hope the injured recover quickly." A local man living nearby, who identified himself as Matsumoto, 25, said he went outside after hearing screams. "It's hard to describe what it was like, how it sounded. It wasn't girls having fun, it was a sound that was absolutely not normal," he told AFP. "I saw a man lying on the street. I also saw a girl hunched over on the ground. There were also five or six girls, maybe they were the ones who screamed... There was blood all over them." The attack occurred during the busy early morning commute as workers headed to their offices and children to school. Fire department officials said they received the first emergency calls shortly before 8:00 am (2300 GMT) Monday. The scene of the attack was still swarming with emergency personnel hours later, with three police vans parked around the spot to block it from view. Emergency workers set up an orange medical tent to treat the wounded, and ambulances and fire engines were parked nearby. Teiko Naito, principal of the school's elementary section, said in an emotional, televised conference: "A man carrying knives in his both hands came from a convenience store and slashed children in the queue one-by-one." Assistant principal Satoru Shitori, who was on the scene, said the attacker crept silently up behind the children before launching his attack. The director of Caritas Gakuen, Teturo Saito, said 18 of her pupils were involved. "The grief is very great. I sincerely pray for those who died and hope the injured recover quickly... The students now have deep pain in their soul. We will do our best to offer mental healthcare," Saito said. The bloodshed came as Donald Trump wrapped up a state visit to Japan, and the US president offered his "prayers and sympathy" to the victims as he met troops outside Tokyo. Standing aboard a Japanese military ship, he said that "all Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and for their families". A local resident, who declined to give his name, said children attending the Caritas school lined up for the bus at the site every day. "If you live in this neighbourhood, everybody knows that these kids are there," the 66-year-old told AFP. "I've been in this area for a long time, I cannot believe that somebody targeted this bus and targeted these small children." Violent crime is extremely rare in Japan, and children often travel to and from schools alone. The country has famously strict gun control regulations and gun crime is unusual, but there have been a few high-profile stabbing attacks. In 2018, a man was arrested in central Japan after stabbing one person to death and injuring two others aboard a bullet train, an attack that prompted new security measures on the famed rail service. And in 2016, a man stabbed 19 people to death at a disability centre south of Tokyo in what he described as a mission to rid the world of people with mental illness. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The crisis in Rajasthan Congress after the debacle in the Lok Sabha polls deepened Tuesday with two more leaders voicing their disappointment despite an advisory from the party against making public statements. Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee secretary Sushil Asopa said the state unit chief Sachin Pilot should have been made chief minister instead of Ashok Gehlot. Jaipur former mayor Jyoti Khandelwal, who was also the Congress candidate in the Lok Sabha polls, blamed poor booth management for her own defeat and sought a detailed analysis. In Delhi Tuesday, Congress president Rahul Gandhi met Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his deputy Sachin Pilot separately. The Congress failed to win a single Lok Sabha seat in Rajasthan despite a winning the assembly elections there just months back. In a Facebook post PCC secretary Sushil Asopa batted for Pilot. Wherever you go in Rajasthan, you hear one voice - Congress. The results of the Lok Sabha elections would have been different had the party made Sachin Pilot chief minister as a reward for his hard work over five years, he wrote. The public says it was because of Pilot's hard work over five years that a favourable atmosphere for the party was created and the party's MLA candidates won, he said, adding that the youth thought that the younger leader will get the chance to be CM. When contacted, Asopa said, I have just expressed my opinion on social media. He added that this was also the general sentiment. Pilot worked hard for five years. He has wide acceptability among the youth who saw him as the next chief minister of Rajasthan during the assembly elections last year, he told PTI. He said the youth were disappointed when he was not made the CM. Jyoti Khandelwal said she wrote a letter to Rahul Gandhi before the counting of votes, seeking a detailed analysis of the party's functioning in Jaipur constituency, where she lost. There was no impact of the Modi wave on the Jaipur seat where Congress vote share has increased as compared to the 2014 elections, she claimed. Leaders and workers were not active in Malviya Nagar assembly constituency under the Jaipur Lok Sabha seat and the booth management was poor, she said. The party should take the Jaipur Lok Sabha seat first for a detailed assessment, she added. She demanded that phone call details of leaders in Malviya Nagar should be examined and responsibility for the failure fixed. Earlier, Rajasthan ministers Udai Lal Anjana and Ramesh Meena had also demanded introspection and a detailed analysis of the defeat. Agriculture minister Lalchand Kataria on Sunday announced his resignation from the state cabinet. A purported press release, circulated on social media, said he was resigning over the poor performance by the party in the elections. But there has been no confirmation on this by the Chief Minister's Office or the Raj Bhawan, and the minister has been unreachable. Ashok Gehlot faces accusation that he concentrated on his son Vaibhav Gehlot's Jodhpur constituency, neglecting others. AICC general secretary in charge of Rajasthan, Avinash Pande, has advised party workers against airing their views in public. Congress leaders and workers should refrain from giving public statements. A review meeting on the election results will be held soon and every Congress man will have a chance to express his thoughts, Pande said in a statement on Monday. Congress faced defeat on all the 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state. BJP won 24 seats and its alliance partner Rashtriya Loktantrik Party headed by Hanuman Beniwal won one seat. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) (ANSA) - Rome, May 28 - Boosted by his League party's triumph in the EU elections, Deputy Premier and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini told the European Commission on Tuesday not to send Italy reprimands about its public finances. The Commission is expected to send Rome a letter this week over Italy's public debt last year. This could reportedly lead to an infringement procedure and a penalty of around 3.5 billion euros. "I hope no one in Europe sends little letters," Salvini told Rtl 102.5 radio. "We'll see if the little letter arrives and they fine us for debts of the past, asking for three billion euros. "Does it seem like the right time for someone in Brussels to ask us to pay a three-billion-euro fine and raise taxes by 20 billion euros in September with youth unemployment over 50% in some regions and us needing to hire doctors and nurses urgently? "I'll use all my energy to change these old, obsolete rules. "Sunday's vote shows there is no confidence in a Europe based on cuts. "If they want, the leaders can now get around a table and put jobs, the unemployment rate and the real economy at the centre, rather the bond spread and the world of finance". European Economic and Monetary Affairs Commissioner Pierre Moscovici was quoted as saying by Bloomberg on Tuesday that he does not want Italy to face hefty penalties for failing to respect the EU's rules for public finances. "I'll have an exchange of opinions with the Italian government about additional measures that could be requested to be in line with the rules... but I don't prefer penalties," Moscovici was quoted as saying. "It's quite likely that we'll have an exchange of letters. Two persons, suspected to be spying for Pakistan, were arrested Tuesday while they were shooting videos and taking photographs outside an Army camp here, officials said. The suspected spies were handed over to the police and are being questioned at a joint interrogation centre, the officials said. They said an army patrol noticed the two moving suspiciously at Parmandal Morh near Ratnuchak Militancy Station and kept a close watch on them. While one of them is from Kathua, the other hails from Doda, the officials said. They were seen taking pictures and videographing the military station and were immediately taken into custody for questioning, the officials said. They said their mobile phones were scanned during which it came to light that they were in regular contact with some persons in Pakistan and have also shared some videos with them a few hours before their arrest. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pradesh BJP president Ajay Bhatt, under whose leadership the party retained the five Lok Sabha seats of Uttarakhand, Tuesday credited the BJP's landslide victory everywhere in the country to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ever growing popularity. Bhatt, who was accorded a grand welcome by BJP workers as he arrived here for the first time after the party's big win, said the five MPs from the state will follow Modi's advice of never letting arrogance get the better of them and not losing touch with people. "I am sure all the five MPs from the state will work in accordance with the advice of Modi," he told reporters, referring to Modi's recommendation for MPs to keep away from the VIP culture. He also said the BJP MPs from Uttarakhand would try to remove the misgivings created among the minorities about the party. When asked to comment on his own victory from Nainital where he had defeated Congress heavyweight Harish Rawat by over three lakh votes, he said he was hardly prepared as his candidature was announced at the last minute. "But thanks to my dedicated party workers and Narendra Modi's popularity, a small party worker like me could win," Bhatt said. He said a strong counter terrorism actions like the Balakot airstrike after the Pulwama attack reinforced people's trust in Modi's leadership. "On the contrary, Congress' statements doubting the valour of the armed forces which were carried by Pakistani newspapers on the front pages hurt the party's prospects more than brightening them," Bhatt said. On whether or not any of the MPs from Uttarakhand will get a ministerial berth, he said it did not matter as the party's return to power with a huge mandate like this was its own reward. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US is "very pleased" to see a strong government return to power in India as both nations look to boost bilateral trade amid a growing security partnership, a senior US official said here Monday. "Our (US) President (Donald Trump) has expressed his strong desire for continued strength in the US and India relations across the board. So, it is an opportunity for us to continue what already is a very excellent relationship," said David Kennedy, Minister Counsellor for Public Affairs, US Embassy in India. Besides, he said both the US and India would like to see their annual bilateral trade of over USD 120 billion grow higher and view it as a "fantastic opportunity". "I think our broader security relationship is strong and growing and that will continue to grow in many ways with shared common interest and common values, as we are two large democracies. I am confident we will continue that very healthy relationship growing forward," Kennedy said. The total bilateral trade, both goods and services, of the US with India stood at USD 126 billion in 2017, up 10.4 per cent from USD 114.2 billion level in 2016. Bilateral trade witnessed an average 5.6 per cent annual growth rate for the previous five years, according to the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India and France held a mega naval exercise in strategically-located Djibouti in the Horn of Africa, in a demonstration of high level of interoperability and deepening cooperation between the two navies. While the first phase of the Varuna exercise took place off the coast of Goa, the second leg was held in Djibouti where China set up its first overseas military base nearly two years ago. "The second phase of the Indo-French naval exercise, christened as Varuna 19.2, which was held from May 22nd to 25th, brought together a French nuclear attack submarine, currently deployed in the Indian Ocean, and an Indian submarine," the French embassy said in a statement. "Organised under the operational control of the French Joint Forces Commander in the Indian Ocean (ALINDIEN), this exercise was an opportunity to reinforce our capabilities for joint action in a critical and strategic field while demonstrating the high level of interoperability achieved," it added. The naval exercise between India and France, initiated in 1983 and christened as 'Varuna' in 2001, forms a vital part of the Indo-French strategic partnership. French Navy's aircraft carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle, two destroyers, FNS Forbin and FNS Provence, frigate FNS Latouche-Treville had also participated in the Varuna exercise. "India and France have been strategic partners for more than 20 years. This partnership is the subject of recurrent dialogues and regular bilateral military exercises," the French embassy said. The harbour phase of the exercise at Goa included professional interactions and discussions while the sea phase in Djibouti comprised various drills across the spectrum of maritime operations. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Amid reports of a rift between ruling coalition partners and in Karnataka, general secretary in-charge of the state is rushing to Bengaluru to sort things out. A meeting of the Legislature Party (CLP) in has been convened, which will take stock of the ongoing political developments in the southern state, triggering speculation about the future of its coalition government. Top Congress leaders will take stock of the situation in the state and seek to unite all partymen to ensure that there is no threat to the coalition government. Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad was also supposed to attend the meeting, but he cancelled his Bengaluru visit in view of the situation prevailing within the party after its president Rahul Gandhi offered to resign. Voices of dissent are gaining ground within the Congress in as two of its MLAs met former chief minister S M Krishna at his Bengaluru residence on Sunday. The coalition government in the southern state has been fragile since its inception with reports of its collapse surfacing every then and now. Following the drubbing of the Congress-JD(S) combine in the just-concluded Lok Sabha election, where the two parties managed to win only one seat each in Karnataka, a senior Congress leader has claimed that the state government will collapse after June 10. Of the 28 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka, the BJP bagged 25 and an Independent candidate won one. Two Congress MLAs -- Ramesh Jarkiholi and Sudhakar -- met BJP leaders at Krishna's residence, though they later claimed that their visit was not political. Sources said Venugopal was going to Karnataka to placate the disgruntled state leaders, amid reports that the state unit of the party has convened a meeting of the CLP on Wednesday. He is likely to hold discussions with the top leaders of the party in the state in order to sort things out. The BJP, with 105 MLAs, is the single-largest party in the 225-member Karnataka Assembly. The ruling coalition has 117 members -- 79 of the Congress, 37 of the JD(S) and one of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). A Vietnamese man has been sentenced to six years in jail for terrorism and weapons possession after he was convicted for smuggling a cache of guns into the country from Cambodia, a court official said Tuesday. Terror-related crimes are rare in the one-party communist state, where a hardline administration in charge since 2016 has waged a crackdown on critics, jailing dozens last year alone. Le Quoc Binh was arrested in August ahead of Vietnam's national day in central Binh Dinh province carrying seven rifles and 500 bullets that he smuggled in from Cambodia. A court on Monday sentenced him to one year in jail for allegedly planning an attack and another five years for weapons possession, according to a court clerk and state media. "Binh used Facebook to share and popularise the use of weapons and violence against the state," according to a report from Bao Ve Phap Luat, the official mouthpiece of the national procuracy office. The report said Binh was disgruntled because his family was relocated from their land in south-central Quy Nhon city and were unfairly compensated. The official Vietnam Agency said Binh travelled to Cambodia several times between June and August 2018 to procure weapons. It added Binh asked for leniency in court before his sentence was announced. Weapons are not widely available in Vietnam and violent terror-related attacks are extremely rare. Seven people were arrested last year, including three on terrorism charges, for bombing a police station in Ho Chi Minh City just days after widespread economic protests rocked the country. The demonstrators opposed a draft law for special economic zones that some feared would be taken over by Chinese investors, though Beijing was not named in the proposal. In 2017, 15 people were jailed for a foiled petrol bomb attack at Ho Chi Minh's main airport, the busiest in the country. Though terror attacks are not common, Vietnam routinely jails dissidents and activists, with at least 128 prisoners of conscience currently behind bars, according to a report from Amnesty International this month. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Italy and France have 26 wins between them in the best foreign film Oscars but with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) increasing its "international engagement", the trend is changing, Academy president John Bailey said Tuesday. India, which has been sending films for Oscar consideration since 1957, is yet to win a trophy in the category though there have been individual victories for Bhanu Athiya, A R Rahman and Resul Pookutty. Only three Indian films -- "Mother India", "Salaam Bombay" and "Lagaan" -- have been nominated in the segment which was renamed as best international feature film category. "I think we are in a very rich period of international engagement. In the past, there have been tremendous numbers of Eurocentric (wins). But there are multiple reasons for that, which have nothing to do with India," Bailey said in a press conference while responding to a question about Indian films not faring well at Oscars. "If you go back, what we used to call the Foreign Language Film, the award has a rich history. It started in 1947. Before it was an established category, it was an honorary Oscar. Films like 'Bicycle Thieves' and 'Shoe-Shine', were all Italian neo-realist films. 'Rashomon' in 1950, was a Japanese post war film. That was not Eurocentric but, there's been a rich history," he added. Bailey also noted that in the initial years, there were very few countries that sent their films for Oscar consideration. "There was not a whole wide non-European exposure or submission that has continued to grow. A year ago, 92 or 93 countries submitted films. This past year, there were 89 countries. We fully expect that it's going to be 100 countries." Bailey said in the last decade, "there has been very, very rich exposure of non-European films that have been nominated and honoured". "I don't buy the argument about (Oscars being) Eurocentric. I think it's diminishing... Every year, we are seeing more and more countries make magnificent films that just make us stand back and look in awe." The Academy president, who is currently on a trip to India with wife Carol Littleton, participated in a special interactive session along with Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chief Prasoon Joshi and Amit Khare, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Reports of a "terrorist" roaming free in Palghar district neighbouring Mumbai kept the police on tenterhooks for hours on Monday before the tension finally eased when they found out the true identity of the man. The entire episode has now become the talk of the town with people discussing the incident in a lighter vein, as the "terrorist" turned out to be a member of the crew shooting for a film in the area. On Monday afternoon, police control room received a call about a "terrorist" roaming in a car near Vasai, a police official said Tuesday. The caller described the suspicious-looking man as the one having a huge beard and carrying a pouch for bullets, he said. After receiving the call, various police stations in the area were alerted. Police also checked CCTV footages to trace the man, who was spotted with his car near Sun City area in Manickpur and was taken into custody. During questionning, it was revealed that the man is a member of the crew shooting for a film who had decided to take a stroll in the filmy get-up. He was released after police confirmed his identity. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The World Health Organisation's member states adopted on Tuesday a watered down resolution on improving drug price transparency that leading medical charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF) criticised as insufficient. An initial draft of the resolution first introduced by Italy at WHO's main annual meeting called for near absolute transparency in the pharmaceutical sector, including requirements that companies make all data from clinical trials publicly available. The Italian text presented to the World Health Assembly also demanded full disclosure from pharmaceutical firms on net revenue, once research and development, tax breaks and other subsidies are factored in. Several countries -- notably those that host large pharmaceutical industries like the US, Britain, Germany and Switzerland -- expressed reservations about the Italian draft. The final version includes several modifications. For example, an earlier draft called on governments to "require the dissemination of results and costs from human subject clinical trials regardless of outcome." But the approved text urged states to "take the necessary steps, as appropriate" to make data from clinical public "regardless of outcomes or whether the results will support an application for marketing approval, while ensuring patient confidentiality." The language was similarly softened with respect to the production costs incurred by drug makers and patent notification. Campaigners say some drugs are highly overpriced although they are often developed with public funding and that governments at times negotiate prices without any idea how much they cost. MSF in a statement called the resolution "a welcome first step" but said it did not go far enough. "While earlier drafts of the resolution included clear language to bring more transparency to this opaque area, unfortunately a small group of countries... obstructed more concrete advances," it added. It singled out Britain, Germany, Japan and the US as countries that "chose to place the interests of a handful of corporations above the interests of people." "We need to know the mark-ups corporations charge, production costs, the cost of clinical trials, how much investment is really covered by companies, and how much is underwritten by taxpayers and non-profit groups," MSF further said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 22-year-old woman allegedly committed suicide after jumping from a building in southwest Delhi's RK Puram area, police said Tuesday. Based on the deceased's father's statement on reported dowry harassment, the woman's husband has been arrested, they added. Police received information on Monday from the trauma centre in AIIMS regarding admission of one Shalu, a resident of Mohammadpur village here, who was grievously injured after falling from a building, a senior police officer said. The woman succumbed to injuries during treatment. Post-mortem was conducted and the body was handed over to the family, police said. The deceased's father alleged dowry harassment on part of the victim's husband. Police recorded the statement of Shalu's father, sister and brother-in-law on Tuesday. Shalu married Ram Kumar, a resident of Mohammadpur village, on May 7, 2014. The sub-divisional magistrate of Vasant Vihar was informed about the incident, officials said. Kumar has been arrested, police said, adding further details are awaited. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) (ANSA) - Rome, May 28 - Boosted by his League party's triumph in the EU elections, Deputy Premier and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini told the European Commission on Tuesday not to send Italy reprimands about its public finances. The Commission is expected to send Rome a letter this week over Italy's public debt last year. This could reportedly lead to an infringement procedure and a penalty of around 3.5 billion euros. "I hope no one in Europe sends little letters," Salvini told Rtl 102.5 radio. "We'll see if the little letter arrives and they fine us for debts of the past, asking for three billion euros. "Does it seem like the right time for someone in Brussels to ask us to pay a three-billion-euro fine and raise taxes by 20 billion euros in September with youth unemployment over 50% in some regions and us needing to hire doctors and nurses urgently? "I'll use all my energy to change these old, obsolete rules. "Sunday's vote shows there is no confidence in a Europe based on cuts. "If they want, the leaders can now get around a table and put jobs, the unemployment rate and the real economy at the centre, rather the bond spread and the world of finance". World Bank arm IFC Tuesday announced maiden help for a gold loan company, committing USD 35 million to Manappuram Finance in a three-year loan. The investment comes at a time when non-bank finance companies (NBFCs) are facing issues on multiple fronts, starting with liquidity pressures and also the prospect of changes in regulations. IFC said its fund infusion is in sync with its strategic objective of "increasing the resilience of the country's financial sector while improving financial inclusion". "We are making our first investment in a gold-loan finance company to create opportunities for the rural and poor households to transition from informal to formal forms of credit," its country head Jun Zhang said in a statement. The money will be given as a three-year secured loan to the gold financier. The statement explained gold loan companies like Manappuram offer loans to financially-excluded customers and small businesses by enabling them to monetise their gold without the need for documentary proof of income. IFC said the investment in the gold-loan sector comes at a time when the sector is becoming more formal, with better regulations and has more of a level playing field with banks. According to the World Gold Council, India has 23,000 tonnes of gold with an estimated market value of USD 1 trillion. However, the current market size of formal gold loans is only USD 19.6 billion, which leaves the field open to pawn-brokers and usurious money lenders in rural areas. However, the banking regulator RBI has repeatedly expressed concern on the segment over a variety of matters. IFC said the government encourages formal financial institutions to enter the market not only to bring large stocks of idle gold into the mainstream for productive use, but also to stem the rising indebtedness and exploitation. "Through this investment, we are supporting one of the priorities of the Indian government to unlock the value of idle gold and bring a large part of Indias unofficial savings into the formal financial system," Zhang said. "We see this as an endorsement of our role as an agent of financial inclusion in India," Manappuram's Managing Director and Chief Executive V P Nandakumar said. The Manappuram scrip closed 1.92 per cent down at Rs 132.75 a piece on the BSE, as against gains of 0.17 per cent on the benchmark. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Five persons, including a local functionary of the Yuva Sena, were arrested Tuesday for allegedly attacking a police officer on duty in Osmanabad district of Maharashtra a day earlier, police said. The 30-year-old police sub-inspector (PSI), Ganesh Jhinjurde, was attacked Monday evening at Tuljapur ST Colony in the district, around 440 kms from here, an official said. The incident occurred when Jhinjurde, who was checking vehicles for violation of traffic rules, had a heated argument with Pruthviraj Rochkari of the Yuva Sena, he said. The argument culminated into at least 11 persons, including relatives of Rojkari, attacking Jhinjurde, he added. The PSI sustained serious injuries on his chest and a hand as one of the accused attacked him with a blade cutter. A case has been registered at Tuljapur police station under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 135 of Mumbai Police Act, the official said, adding a hunt is on for six others involved in the attack. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Despite missing its target for digital payments for two consecutive years, the government has optimistically set a target of 40 billion e-transactions for FY20. That's a jump of 33 per cent over last year's target of 30 billion, which was reportedly missed by about 4 billion. To ensure that the latest target is met, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has assigned fixed goalposts for the various players in the business. While SBI has been given a target of 7.7 billion transactions, Paytm has to deliver 5 billion digital transactions through its payments bank and popular mobile wallet, sources in the know told The Times of India. They added that private banks HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank are expected to chip in with about 2.5 billion and 2.8 billion transactions, respectively. As the country readies for the Modi 2.0 government to take charge, speculation is rife that all of NDA's pet schemes and initiatives will see renewed focus, including Narendra Modi's dream of a cashless India. "Once the swearing-in of new ministers takes place, things will further accelerate," said a source. While banks will be the biggest catayst for spurring on digital payments - which is why they have reportedly been asked to deploy 8.5-million point of sales (PoS) terminals in the rural areas and the northeastern states alone - mobile wallets and the Unified Payment Interface (UPI) will also play a key role. The total count for UPI transactions in 2018 reportedly stood at 3 billion. In January, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) announced on its official Twitter handle that the value of UPI transactions had seen a 25% increase (month-on-month) to cross the Rs 1 lakh crore milestone in December for the first time. The numbers continue to mushroom: In March, it saw 800 million transactions through its network, dipping slightly to around 782 million transactions last month. Sources told the daily that the FY20 targets are ambitious but achievable as UPI adoption is stronger than ever now and it has emerged as a leading choice of digital payments among top-tier internet users in the metro cities. According to Ankur Pahwa, partner and national leader (e-commerce and consumer internet), EY India, the focus on digital payments will only accelerate going forward and "UPI will continue to lead the digital payments stack in India". To push digital payments, regulatory bodies like the RBI, IRDAI and Sebi are set to come up with regulatory sandboxes to work and test new technologies in the market. Earlier this month, the banking regulator released its latest vision document for payment and settlement systems, which outlines the road map for 2019 to 2021. The core theme of the document is 'Empowering Exceptional (E)payment Experience', and the aim is to achieve "a highly digital and cash-lite society" through the four goal posts, namely competition, cost effectiveness, convenience and confidence. Among the specific outcomes listed in the vision document, the RBI sees payment systems like IMPS/UPI registering average annualised growth of over 100% and NEFT at 40% till 2021. The number of digital transactions is expected to increase more than four times to over 87 billion in the same time frame. Also read: Govt mulls making UPI-based QR codes mandatory for shops Also read: RBI proposes to make NEFT 24x7; here's all you need to know India must tread cautiously during negotiations for the proposed mega-pact RCEP against the backdrop of US-China trade war so as not to cede space to China in the global textiles and clothing sector, the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) said Monday. The textile industry body said that while the ongoing US-China trade war presents an opportunity to Indian textile manufacturers to enhance their exports to the US, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade scenario reveals that India must tread cautiously, particularly with China, as half of India's textiles and clothing (T&C) trade in RCEP is with China. CITI Chairman Sanjay Jain said the ongoing US-China trade war cannot go unnoticed as China would be looking for new markets for its products. India needs to be over cautious while negotiating with China which is already re-routing its textiles into India through Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, etc. According to Jain, India's trade deficit with China in the textiles and clothing sector is likely to be widened once RCEP is concluded and could be detrimental for its domestic textile manufacturers. India registered trade deficit in 2018-19 with as many as 11 Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) member countries - including China, South Korea and Australia - out of the grouping of 16 nations that are negotiating a mega trade pact since November 2012. The RCEP bloc comprises 10 ASEAN members and their six FTA partners - India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. ASEAN members comprise Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Laos and Vietnam. RCEP negotiations, which started in Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh, aim to cover goods, services, investments, economic and technical cooperation, competition and intellectual property rights. Pressure is mounting on India for early conclusion of the proposed trade pact. Member countries are looking to conclude the talks by the end of this year, but many issues, including the number of products over which duties will be eliminated, are yet to be finalised. Domestic steel and other metal industries want these sectors to be kept out of the deal. India already has a free trade pact with ASEAN, Japan and South Korea. It is also negotiating a similar agreement with Australia and New Zealand, but has no such plans for China. Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba may be appointed as next Cabinet Secretary, replacing P K Sinha, whose four year tenure comes to an end on June 12, officials said Monday. Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, B V R Subrahmanyam, a 1987 batch IAS officer of Chhattisgarh cadre, seems to be the top contender for the post of union home secretary after Gauba. Gauba, one of the senior most bureaucrats, had served in various capacities in central government as well as in Jharkhand and Bihar governments, is supposed to complete his two-year tenure as home secretary on August 31. There is all likelihood that Gauba will be the next Cabinet Secretary, the top post in the country's bureaucracy, an official privy to the development said. If Gauba, a 1982 batch Jharkhand cadre IAS officer, is appointed as cabinet secretary, he will have a fixed two-year tenure, which can be extendable for further two years. Incumbent Sinha was first appointed in 2015 for two years. He got an year extension of service in 2017 and again another year in 2018. Both predecessors of Sinha -- Ajit Kumar Seth and K M Chandrasekhar -- had also served the post for four years. Seth, who was appointed by the UPA dispensation in 2011 continued in the post till 2015 after the Narendra Modi government came to power in 2014. As per the government rules, no government servant shall be granted extension in service beyond the age of retirement of 60 years but as per rule FR 56, extension in public interest may be given "for a period not exceeding four years in the case of Cabinet Secretary". If Gauba's name is cleared by the Appointment Committee of Cabinet in the new government after it assumes charge on May 30, he will first be appointed as Officer on Special Duty, some time in first week of June before taking over the charge from Sinha, another official said. In the central government, Gauba had served as secretary in the ministry of urban development, additional secretary in the ministry of home affairs, joint secretary in the ministry of environment. He had also served as chief secretary of Jharkhand, Resident Commissioner of Jharkhand in Delhi. Before bifurcation of Bihar, Gauba had also served as district magistrate of Gaya, Nalanda and Muzaffarpur districts. Gauba had also served as private secretary to the then Defence Minister George Fernandes in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. Shell companies list: Securities Appellate Tribunal quashes BSE's order against SVC Industries RBI draft liquidity norms may put pressure on NBFCs margins: Analysts Ficci demands stimulus package to pump-prime slowing economy Following their dismal performance in Lok Sabha Elections 2019, uncertainty looms over the Congress party as chief Rahul Gandhi remains insistent on stepping aside. According to a report in India Today, Congress leaders have persuaded Rahul Gandhi to stay as party president for the next 3-4 month. Gandhi has been reportedly authorised to make structural changes and rejig the organisation to strengthen the party. Separately, Modi is likely to be sworn-in as the Prime Minister on May 30. As per reports, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba may be appointed as next Cabinet Secretary, replacing P K Sinha, whose four year tenure comes to an end on June 12. Follow the Lok Sabha Elections 2019 LIVE blog here: 7:05pm: BSP leader Haji Ahsan, nephew shot dead in Uttar Pradesh's Bijnor Bijnor: BSP leader Haji Ahsan and his nephew Shadab were shot dead at around 3 pm by unidentified assailants. Addl, SP says,'Unidentified assailants shot at him while he was at his office with his nephew around 3 pm. Prima facie it appears to be a case of enmity; probe on. pic.twitter.com/g0y78w9Bsb ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 28, 2019 7:00pm: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee to attend PM Modi's swearing-in ceremony on May 30. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on PM Modi's oath taking ceremony: I have spoken to other Chief Ministers also. Since it is a ceremonial program we thought of attending it.Yes I will go pic.twitter.com/qbgIomrvCL ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 4:43pm: Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee has released a statement appealing to Congress President Rahul Gandhi to take back his resignation. Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee has released a statement appealing to Congress President Rahul Gandhi to take back his resignation. pic.twitter.com/4CISFmVcpT ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 4:34pm: TMC MLAs Subhranshu Roy, Tusharkanti Bhattacharjee and CPM MLA Devendra Roy joined BJP today. Subhranshu is the son of BJP leader Mukul Roy and had been suspended by TMC recently. 4:16pm: Two TMC MLAs and one CPM MLA from West Bengal join the Bharatiya Janata Party its headquarters in Delhi. More than 50 Councillors also join BJP. Two TMC MLAs and one CPM MLA from West Bengal join BJP at party headquarters in Delhi. More than 50 Councillors also join BJP pic.twitter.com/9cJ0gTn9FC ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP National General Secretary on 3 MLAs and more than 50 Councillors from WB joining BJP: Like the elections were held in seven phases in West Bengal, joinings in BJP will also happen in seven phases. Today was just the first phase. pic.twitter.com/YbYEYK2KwU ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 4:04pm: Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP National General Secretary: "Three MLAs and 50-60 Councillors are joining BJP today. Such joinings will continue in future also." 4:02pm: Sixteen TMC Councillors of the Kanchrapara Municipality collectively withdraw from AITC Councillor' Party. West Bengal: 16 TMC Councillors of the Kanchrapara Municipality collectively withdraw from AITC Councillor' Party. Subhrangshu Roy, son of BJP leader Mukul Roy also withdraws his membership. pic.twitter.com/h2F9wZf4SN ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 3:38pm: Backing the continuation of Rahul Gandhi as the Congress president, senior party leader M Veerappa Moily on Tuesday termed the Lok Sabha election setback for the grand old party as a "passing phase". The former Union minister said the outcome of one or two elections could not be a pointer to the future prospects of the party, which had seen many ups and downs in its long history. Describing Gandhi as the "inspiration" for the party, Moily said it was not appropriate for him to quit as the Congress chief. "Just because (Narendra) Modi has won...that is not a criteria to leave the presidentship. After all, ups and downs are common for the Congress party. We have seen them many a time," he told PTI. Recalling that the Congress had secured more than 400 seats in the 1984 Lok Sabha election, Moily said, "...the future prospects of the Congress cannot be decided in one Lok Sabha election or one or two Assembly polls." "The BJP, after all, can play a game for some time, but it cannot play a sustained game in the politics of this country," the former Karnataka chief minister claimed. Stating that Gandhi should not insist on his resignation, he said he should "continue to guide the destiny of the party and the nation". "Apart from legacy, on his own personality, he is the most competent person to lead the party," Moily said. (PTI) 3:36pm: DMK President MK Stalin to attend Andhra Pradesh CM designate Jagan Mohan Reddy's swearing in ceremony on 30th May. 3:34pm: DMK President MK Stalin had a telephonic conversation with Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and requested him not to step down from presidential post. Rahul Gandhi congratulated Stalin for DMK-Congress Alliance victory in Tamil Nadu. Sonia Gandhi too congratulated Stalin: ANI. 3:27pm: Describing May 23, when the BJP rode back to power with a massive mandate, as a 'historic' day, yoga guru Ramdev on Monday said it should be celebrated either as 'Modi Diwas or public welfare day'. "May 23 is a historic day. It should be celebrated either as Modi Diwas or Jan Kalyan Diwas (public welfare day)," Ramdev told reporters in Haridwar. 3:15pm: A PIL was moved in the Delhi High Court on Tuesday seeking directions to the Centre to implement population control measures on the ground that population explosion was the root cause behind rise in crimes, pollution and dearth of resources and jobs in the country. The petition by BJP leader Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, who is also a lawyer, has sought implementation of recommendations for population control made by the National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (NCRWC) headed by Justice Venkatchaliah. "The NCRWC, after making immense efforts for two years and elaborate discussion, had suggested addition of Article 47A in the Constitution and formulation of Population Control Law. "Till now the Constitution has been amended 125 times, hundreds of new laws have been enacted, but population control law, utterly required for country, is not made, though it will curtail more than 50 per cent problems of India," the petition said. (PTI) 2:45pm: A special session of the Goa Legislative Assembly would be held here on June 4 to elect new Speaker, acting Speaker Michael Lobo said Tuesday. The post of Speaker has been lying vacant since Pramod Sawant was sworn in as Chief Minister in March, following the death of the then chief minister Manohar Parrikar. Lobo, who is the deputy speaker, has been officiating as Speaker. Lobo ruled himself out of the race for new Speaker. Responding to a query, Lobo said the final order on a disqualification petition filed against BJP MLA Vishwajit Rane might be pronounced before June 4. "The arguments in the disqualification petition are over and final order is ready. We have sent the order for legal opinion. Once we get legal opinion, it can be pronounced any time," he said. (PTI) 2:15pm: BJP ally Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) has passed a resolution, recommending its President Ram Vilas Paswan as party representative in Modi government 2:10pm: YS Jaganmohan Reddy has invited outgoing Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu for swearing-in ceremony, scheduled on May 30th in Vijayawada. 2:05pm: "Rahul Gandhi is the best person to lead party, too premature to write obituary of Congress," says Shashi Tharoor. 1:58pm: Gyandev Ahuja, BJP Rajasthan Vice President said, "I am not an official party spokesperson but I have heard that the BSP MLAs here are unhappy and so are 20-25 Congress MLAs. I don't want to comment further on this." 1:50pm: "There was nothing wrong for the regional parties to bargain for more seats but they should not have done the strategic blunder of not projecting someone who has a national perspective as the Prime Minister candidate," said Lalu Prasad Yadav who felt that the Opposition should have collectively projected Gandhi as the Prime Ministerial candidate. 1:30pm: "I think he tried very hard. But you can see the results," said Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik when asked about Rahul Gandhi's leadership, in an interview by The Economic Times. 1:02pm: Pakistan has tried to downplay India's decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modi's swearing-in on Thursday, claiming that the Indian Prime Minister's "internal politics" does not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a member of the regional grouping. The BIMSTEC comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Pakistan Prime Minister Khan to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. "His (Prime Minister Modi's) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon)," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. "India's internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation," he said. (PTI) 12:45pm: Six BSP MLAs in Rajasthan will meet party chief Mayawati in Delhi on June 1 during which the party's performance in the Lok Sabha polls in the state will be reviewed, a legislator said on Tuesday. BSP MLA Wajib Ali told PTI that the party's support to the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government would continue. "There is no agenda of withdrawing support from the government, rather we will discuss how efficiently we can work with the government here," he said. "We will discuss the party's performance in the Lok Sabha elections in the state. Future strategy will also be discussed in the meeting," the MLA added. The six BSP MLAs were scheduled to meet Governor Kalyan Singh here on Monday but the meeting was cancelled at the last moment. Ali said that based on the discussions with the party chief, a decision would be taken regarding the meeting with the governor. In the house of 200 MLAs, the Congress has 100 and its ally Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) has one. Besides the BSP, which has 6 MLAs, the Congress has the support of 12 out of total 13 independent MLAs. (PTI) 12:41pm: JP leaders LK Advani and Sumitra Mahajan pay tribute to Veer Savarkar. Delhi: BJP leaders LK Advani and Sumitra Mahajan pay tribute to Veer Savarkar on his birth anniversary, at the Parliament. pic.twitter.com/lL5zAwYkLo ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 12:40pm: TMC councillors join BJP. Ruby Chatterjee, TMC councillor from Garifa (West Bengal), ward no 6 says, "20 councillors are here in Delhi. We are not upset with Mamata ji but the recent victory of BJP in Bengal has influenced us to join the party. People are liking BJP as they are working for them." pic.twitter.com/qpYCCmS4HF ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 12:38pm: Talking about Rahul Gandhi's possible resignation, Rajinikanth said, "He should not resign. He should prove he can do it. In democracy the opposition should also be strong." 12:35pm: "This victory is a victory for Modi. He is a charismatic leader. In India after JL Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi he is now a charismatic leader. I will be going for the swearing in ceremony of Narendra Modi ji," said superstar Rajinikanth. 12:29pm: "He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation," said PM Modi about former President Pranab Mukherjee. Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation. Sought his blessings during our meeting today. pic.twitter.com/dxFj6NPNd5 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2019 12:28pm: Former Karnataka CM & BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa in Bengaluru: "We oppose FIR against Vishweshwar Bhat (editor of Kannada daily, Vishwavani). JD(S) is trying to curtail freedom of expression." He also said, "We have won 25 out of 28 seats in Karnataka. It is a historic win. It is better if the government is dissolved and mid-term polls are held. No BJP MLA is in touch with Congress or JD(S)." 12:20pm: "I never expected such a big loss to the Congress party. In a way let's all sit together and work out. I have just arrived,I have to meet my party leaders and committee. Congress can't be wiped out and Gandhi family has been protecting the party in all crisis," said DK Shivakumar, Karnataka Minister. 12:06pm: Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot arrives at the residence of Congress President Rahul Gandhi. Delhi: Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot arrives at the residence of Congress President Rahul Gandhi. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Randeep Singh Surjewala and Sachin Pilot are also present there. pic.twitter.com/fylvxe3qtc ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 11:55am: Alpesh Thakor, Gujarat MLA, said "My people are poor and backward. They need support of govt. I was disturbed that I couldn't give that to my people what I had intended to. My org voiced their opinion that we need not be there where we don't have respect and there's no talk of their rights." 11:50am: "Baba Ramdev's statement on population control should be seen in a positive light. Population control laws are necessary for the development of the country," said Begusarai BJP MP Giriraj Singh. 11:45am: Rajasthan Deputy CM Sachin Pilot arrives at the residence of Congress President Rahul Gandhi. Delhi: Rajasthan Deputy CM Sachin Pilot arrives at the residence of Congress President Rahul Gandhi. pic.twitter.com/TA6leEblcT ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 11:30am: Newly elected DMK MLAs take oath at the state secretariat. Chennai: Newly elected DMK MLAs take oath at the state secretariat; DMK President MK Stalin also present. pic.twitter.com/EnWczjjEs0 ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 11:10am: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Randeep Singh Surjewala arrive at the residence of Congress President Rahul Gandhi. Delhi: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Randeep Singh Surjewala arrive at the residence of Congress President Rahul Gandhi. pic.twitter.com/WXmvlPMJv0 ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 11:00am: Pandaveswar TMC MLA Jitendra Tiwari alleges BJP worker vandalised TMC office in Durgapur yesterday. West Bengal: Pandaveswar TMC MLA Jitendra Tiwari alleges BJP worker vandalised TMC office in Durgapur y'day, says, "BJP is doing tandav in Bengal. If BJP doesn't stop its workers,we'll retaliate,we won't sit silent'.You've won in Bengal but you can't break a TMC office." (27 May) pic.twitter.com/y9oIRyHuAO ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 10:50am: Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi will attend the May 30 swearing in ceremony of Narendra Modi as Prime Minister for the second term. An official source said Bedi left for Delhi on Tuesday. The Lt Governor will in the meanwhile complete three years in office on Wednesday, but will not be in the union territory because of her visit to Delhi. She has been at loggerheads with Chief Minister V Narayanasamy and his government on various administrative issues ever since she assumed office in May 29 2016. (PTI) 10:35am: Three more Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) chiefs have sent in their resignations to Rahul Gandhi. Assam PCC chief Ripun Bora, Jharkhan PCC chief Ajoy Kumar and Punjab PCC chief Sunil Jakhar are the new names on the list. Maharashtra unit chief Ashok Chavan, Odisha PCC Niranjan Patnaik and UP unit chief Raj Babbar had sent in their resignations earlier. 10:24am: Talking about the election results in UP, SP leader Azam Khan told Economic Times in an interview: "I am unable to understand what happened... kuch baat samajh mein nahi aati, kya hua kuch akal kaam nahi kar rahi hai (my brain is unable to comprehend this). Did a change come in the mind of the voters so silently, that they all changed camp? This has never happened before. Neither was there any atmosphere in BJP's favour in UP nor any public wave. Simply, we are stunned." 10:18am: "BIMSTEC member states have been invited by the government for the swearing-in ceremony. This is in line with the Government's focus on its 'Neighbourhood First' policy," said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Apart from India, the BIMSTEC countries are Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. 10:11am: Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba may be appointed as next Cabinet Secretary, replacing P K Sinha, whose four year tenure comes to an end on June 12, officials said on Monday. Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, B V R Subrahmanyam, a 1987 batch IAS officer of Chhattisgarh cadre, seems to be the top contender for the post of union home secretary after Gauba. Gauba, one of the senior most bureaucrats, had served in various capacities in central government as well as in Jharkhand and Bihar governments, is supposed to complete his two-year tenure as home secretary on August 31. There is all likelihood that Gauba will be the next Cabinet Secretary, the top post in the country's bureaucracy, an official privy to the development said. If Gauba, a 1982 batch Jharkhand cadre IAS officer, is appointed as cabinet secretary, he will have a fixed two-year tenure, which can be extendable for further two years. (PTI) 10:06am: Modi pays tribute to Veer Savarkar. We bow to Veer Savarkar on his Jayanti. Veer Savarkar epitomises courage, patriotism and unflinching commitment to a strong India. He inspired many people to devote themselves towards nation building. pic.twitter.com/k1rmFHz250 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2019 10:04am: "I just know who won and who lost. I don't have further details. Usually I get messages, I don't know anything further. I'm just following Gandhi ji's theory 'Don't hear bad, don't speak bad and don't see bad'," said Karnataka Minister DK Shivakumar in Benagluru. 10:00am: A bomb was hurled at the 'Vijay Rally' of BJP supporters, allegedly by TMC supporters, in West Bengal's Birbhum under Mayureswar police station limits yesterday. West Bengal: A bomb was hurled at the 'Vijay Rally' of BJP supporters, allegedly by TMC supporters, in Birbhum under Mayureswar police station limits yesterday. Police say no injuries were reported. pic.twitter.com/6MJAHGO0vv ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 9:50am: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi Palaniswami and his family offered prayers at Lord Balaji temple in Tirumala. BELGRADE - Two Serbians were slightly wounded in a shootout early on Tuesday in Zubin Potok, one of the main cities of Serbian-majority northern Kosovo, an area affected by arrests of security officials carried out by the special forces of Kosovo's police (Rosu), according to local media. Reports said that a gunfight was reported between Kosovan police and local residents. Police armored vehicles reportedly tore down barricades erected by the local population. Tension is high and authorities fear clashes. Early on Tuesday, Kosovo's special forces arrested 13 Serbians who are members of Kosovo's police forces. The reason for the arrests are unknown. According to local media reports, the arrests were carried out in the four main Serbian-majority municipalities of northern Kosovo - Zubon Potok, Mitrovica, Zvecan and Leposavic. The operation by special forces has been condemned by Belgrade. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic placed the army and police forces on alert after the arrest of the 13 police officers and called an urgent meeting of the national security council to discuss the tense situation. Vucic, according to the reports, has warned the EU that Serbia will react if Rosu special forces will not withdraw from northern Kosovo. In Kosovska Mitrovica, the bridge on the Ibar river that separates the northern (Serbian) sector from the southern (Albanian) one has been closed. Kfor has boosted its presence while on Tuesday morning sirens blared with groups of Serbians gathering in the main square of northern Mitrovica. ''They respond to our messages of peace with messages of war'', said in Belgrade Milovan Drecun, the head of the parliamentary mission for Kosovo. He said he believes the Kosovan side does not want dialogue anymore and the objective of such provocations would be to clash with the Serbian population to provoke Serbia's armed intervention. Kosovan President Hashim Thaci summoned to Pristina security and justice chiefs to discuss the situation connected to the police operation that led to the arrest of the ethnic Serbian policemen. Kosovan Premier Ramush Haradinaj confirmed the arrest on Tuesday morning in northern Kosovo of the police officers, saying it was an operation against smuggling and organized crime. ''I confirm the operation as part of the fight against trafficking and organized crime that also concerns policemen and customs officers'', Haradinaj was quoted as saying by Serbian media. The premier urged the population to remain calm. Libya: UNHCR, plan in Tunisia ready for 25,000 refugees Camps selected, control of aid in place (ANSAmed) - TUNIS, MAY 28 - To prepare for a potential escalation of violence in Libya and the mass arrival of refugees in Tunisia, the UN refugee agency UNHCR has held a number of meetings with representatives of the Tunisian government, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other agencies interested in the situation in Libya ''to update the emergency plan and control mechanisms of intervention in light of developments in the country'', said the coordinator in Tunisia of UNHCR's activities, Naoufel Tounsi, in an interview to magazine ''Assabah al-Osbouii''. The emergency plan, stressed Tounsi, was established in the event of the arrival of 25,000 people fleeing to Tunisia from Libya. It includes the localization of camps to host refugees and the control of the quality of aid provided. On May 16, representatives of the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNHCR as well as the regional direction of the Tunisian health ministry visited the border delegations of Dhehiba and Remada, near the Libyan border, in the governorate of Tataouine, to find the logistical and human resources in the respective healthcare districts. According to initial reports by the UN office for humanitarian affairs OCHA, the displaced in Tripoli and the area around the city since the start of the armed conflict are 82,300.(ANSAmed). The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has released the recruitment notification for the post of Assistant Executive Engineer in Group A of Odisha Engineering Service under the Water Resources Department. The notification was released for a total of 386 vacancies. The recruitment will be made for the posts of Civil and Mechanical engineers. The selection of the candidates will be based on the written examination followed by a viva voce test. The selected candidates can earn based on level 12 under ORSP rules. The online application forms will be accepted between June 7 and July 6, 2019. Check the complete details about the OPSC Assistant Executive Engineer recruitment 2019. OPSC Recruitment 2019: Assistant Executive Engineer Vacancy Details Assistant Executive Engineer (Civil) - UR: 232, SEBC: 53, SC: 28 and ST: 40 Assistant Executive Engineer (Mechanical) - UR: 19, SEBC: 06, SC: 07 and ST: 01 Also Read: Is Pursuing An MBA After Engineering A Good Option? CRITERIA DETAILS Name Of The Posts Assistant Executive Engineer Organisation Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) Educational Qualification Graduation in engineering Job Location Odisha Salary Scale Level 12 under ORSP rules Application Start Date June 7, 2019 Application End Date June 6, 2019 Age Limit The minimum age to apply online is 21 years. The upper age limit is 32 years as on January 1, 2019. The age relaxation will be provided to candidates belonging to SC, ST, SEBC and PWD categories. SAIL Recruitment For 142 Management Trainees (Engineering) Application Fee Candidates have to pay Rs 500 as application fee which is non-refundable. The application fee is exempted for candidates belonging to SC, ST and PWD categories. The last date to submit the application fee is July 10, 2019. Click here for OPSC Assistant Executive Engineer recruitment 2019 How To Apply SSC MTS 2019 Candidates should visit the OPSC website - http://www.opsc.gov.in to apply online for Assistant Executive Engineer. The online application forms will be available between June 7 and July 6, 2019. The last date to submit the application fee is July 10, 2019. SSC MTS 2019 Recruitment Notification Released For 10,000+ Vacancie Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. said on Sunday it had agreed to pay an $85 million settlement with the state of Oklahoma days before the company was set to face trial over allegations that it and other drugmakers helped fuel the U.S. opioid epidemic. Teva, the worlds largest generic drugmaker, said the settlement does not establish any wrongdoing on the part of the company and denied contributing to opioid abuse in Oklahoma. Claims against Teva focused on the branded opioid products Actiq and Fentora as well as generic painkillers it produced. The trial against Israel-based Teva, along with Johnson & Johnson, was set to begin on Tuesday. The lawsuit alleged the companies marketing of the painkiller was to blame for the opioid epidemic. In a statement, Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc, a J&J subsidiary, said it had acted responsibly and was ready for trial. It said it disagreed with what it called Oklahomas overly expansive theories of public nuisance law, and said they should not apply in this situation. At the same time, as with all litigation, if an appropriate resolution is possible that avoids the expense and uncertainty of a trial, we are always open to that option, the company said in a statement. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter has alleged that J&J and Teva, along with OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma LP, carried out deceptive marking campaigns that downplayed opioids addictive risks while overstating their benefits. The state also alleges the companies actions created an oversupply of painkillers and a public nuisance that will cost $12.7 billion to $17.5 billion to remedy. Oklahoma resolved its claims against Purdue Pharma LP in March for $270 million. The Oklahoma case is being closely watched by plaintiffs in other opioid cases, particularly some 1,850 mostly municipal and state governments that have sued the same drugmakers in the federal court in Ohio. Teva is pleased to put the Oklahoma case behind it and remains prepared to vigorously defend claims against the company, including the upcoming federal court trial in Cleveland where the majority of the cases are pending, the company said. Attorney General Hunters office said in a statement the money would be used to address the opioid crisis in Oklahoma and that the J&J case is still scheduled to go to trial on Tuesday before Cleveland County District Judge Thad Balkman. Nearly all Oklahomans have been negatively impacted by this deadly crisis and we look forward to Tuesday, where we will prove our case against Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiaries, Hunter said in a statement. (Reporting by Nate Raymond and Ari Rabinovitch; Editing by Jane Merriman and Lisa Shumaker) Photo: Alberta Wildfire Trout Lake fire Warmer temperatures, gusty winds and no rain continued to cause unpredictable conditions for firefighters in northern Alberta on Monday, but officials said measures to keep flames away from threatened communities were working. The largest blaze in northern Alberta remained about three kilometres southwest of High Level, where crews have been bulldozing, back-burning and water bombing to ensure flames don't creep closer to the town. "We did good in the priority area," Scott Elliott, incident commander for the fire, said Monday in High Level. "As we had forecast, the extreme fire conditions were present and we did see that on big chunks of the fire away from the community." Officials said the Chuckegg Creek fire covered about 1,270 square kilometres up from just over 1,000 square kilometres on the weekend. Elliott said the weather hasn't co-operated at all. "We're still experiencing hot, dry, windy conditions," he said. "The threat of extreme fire behaviour has not been alleviated. "Having said that, the work we've completed around the community has been holding, and we are continuing to extinguish any hot spots that remain to ensure that it is safe when people do return into town." There were 194 firefighters working to protect homes and other properties in High Level, while 400 firefighters aided by 28 helicopters were fighting the fire itself. Farther south, an emergency alert was issued for Trout Lake because of a three-square-kilometre blaze about 14 kilometres southeast of the tiny community. Residents of Trout Lake, which is about 500 kilometres north of Edmonton, were told they might need to leave on short notice. About 5,000 people were ordered to leave High Level and surrounding communities a week ago. Those evacuees started to receive provincial emergency funds for gas, food and other expenses on Monday. They also heard they should not expect to return home before the weekend. ISTANBUL - Turkish armed forces have launched a ground military operation with the support of helicopters against Kurdish PKK bases in northern Iraq, in the region of Hakurk, the Turkish defense ministry said Tuesday morning. The offensive started at 8 pm local time Monday. According to the armed forces, artillery fire and air raids were carried out to pave the way for the intervention of special commando brigades, supported by attack helicopters T-129 ATAK as well as armed and unarmed drones. The operation vies to destroy shelters used by Kurdish rebels as armed positions, the defense ministry said. Turkey regularly carries out air raids against PKK strongholds in northern Iraq but - at least officially - the operations don't usually involve soldiers on the ground. Turkish and Iraqi government summits were recently held to discuss the fight against terrorism in the region. Ecocem forced to drop Vallejo mill project 28 May 2019 Ecocem of Ireland has dropped plans for a grinding mill Vallejo, San Francisco Bay, California, USA, after project partner Vallejo Marine Terminal (VMT) withdrew from the proposed plant. VMT's lawyer, Krista Kim, told the city council that her client no longer supported the project, which has endured a six-year planning application battle. VMT owned the land on which the proposed EUR45m plant would have been constructed for Ecocem subsidiary Orcem Americas. Vallejo's council was scheduled to hear an appeal and consider the final environmental report for the project on Thursday 20 May, but the public meeting has now been cancelled and the project has been terminated. Published under Cemex aligns with UN sustainable development goals 28 May 2019 Cemex has announced that it is strengthening its commitment to the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by prioritising five goals that are directly connected with the company's business and represent a better opportunity to contribute to the UN 2030 Agenda. These five goals are focussed on: the promotion of decent employment and economic growth innovation and infrastructure development climate change mitigation environmental and ecosystem conservation the advancement of sustainable cities and communities. The five priority SDGs represent the greatest opportunities to contribute further and to identify new business oportunities connected with Cemex's business strategy, such as innovation, research and development, employability, climate change, diversity and education, among others, said Cemex. "Consistent with our commitment to the UN SDGs, we continue to contribute to these global goals and develop business opportunities for our company by creating shared value for society," said Fernando A Gonzalez, CEO of Cemex. "We invite the private sector to join this commitment and generate inclusive prosperity and sustainable development." Published under CAIRO - A reported 3,076 alleged Islamic extremists and 1,226 army and police officials were reported killed from January 2014 to June last year in clashes in Sinai, according to a report published Tuesday by Human Rights Watch. The report released by the human rights organization quoted ''government statements and information provided by the media''. Egyptian authorities have not provided official data on civilian deaths nor publicly admitted any mistake, according to the report called ''If you are afraid for your lives, leave Sinai!''. The US organization claimed that the army and police have arrested over 12,000 residents since July 2013, when fighting intensified, until December 2018, although the armed forces officially admitted only 7,300 arrests. Aggregated data on the low-intensity conflict in center-north Sinai are very rare. ''Egyptian army and police forces in the Sinai peninsula are perpetrating grave and widespread crimes against civilians'' as part of an ''ongoing campaign against members of the local group affiliated to ISIS'', said the HRW report, stressing that ''part of these abuses are war crimes''. The 134-page document is the outcome of two years of investigations in a territory made inaccessible by the army in which it was possible to document ''crimes including arbitrary mass arrests, forced disappearances, torture, extra-judicial killings and possibly air and ground attacks against civilians'', the report denounced. It also noted that ''extremist militants carried out terrible crimes'' like an attack that killed at least 311 people against the mosque al-Rawda in November 2017. According to HRW, ''Egypt's international partners should immediately interrupt any security and military assistance'' to Cairo. (ANSAmed) - ROME, MAY 28 - Early elections in Greece could be held on July 7 instead of June 30, as previously speculated, because university admission tests will be held from June 6 until July 2 in many schools in Greece, according to local press reports. Premier Alexis Tsipras, after being defeated in European elections, announced that he would ask President Prokopis Pavlopoulos to start the procedure for early elections after June 2, when run-offs for local elections will be held. Pavlopoulos, according to media reports, has already contacted the leader of the conservative partyNea Dimokratia Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the winner of the vote, to brief him on the procedure. However, the president reportedly decided to postpone elections because they could not be organized in many schools. (ANSAmed) Howard High School's Cadet Ensign Nelson was presented the Theodore Roosevelt Award from the Greater Chattanooga Navy League Council. This years awardee for the MOAA Outstanding JROTC cadet from Howard High School was Petty Officer 2nd Class Clervin Perez Lopez. The presentations was made at the school's end of the year award ceremony. The Theodore Roosevelt Award was presented by President of the Greater Chattanooga Navy League Council Stacy Kehoe. President of the Military Officers of Association of America, Chattanooga Chapter, Captain Mickey McCamish, USN (RET)presented the MOAA Outstanding JROTC cadet award. Ms. Nelson was recommended by her Commanding Officer, LCDR Dirk Ames, USCG (RET), Howard High Schools Senior Science Instructor for the Navy JROTC program. Standing in for the Chickamauga Chapter, NSDAR, Ms. Kehoe also presented Cadet Ensign Nelson with the Daughters of the American Revolution, JROTC National Defense Medal and certificate. Ms. Kehoe is the regent for the Judge David Campbell Chapter. Captain McCamish presented the Military Officers Association of America Chattanooga Chapters Outstanding JROTC award to an individual cadet recommended by their commanding officer. In years past, this award was given at the MOAAs annual awards dinner meeting in April. It was decided to award these cadets at their individual schools to give a better impact in front of their peers rather than at a dinner meeting. Captain McCamish also stood in for the John Sevier Chapter, Tennessee Society Sons Of The American Revolution and presented Petty Officer 1st Class James Stamper the Outstanding Junior Award. Captain McCamish presented the U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Leadership Award to Ranaldo Velasquez. He was the junior recipient. Trevon Stubbs was the freshman recipient but he was not present. To see the criteria for this award, please click here. Captain McCamish and Ms. Kehoe were surprised, as well as the majority of the Howard High Schools students, teachers, and faculty members, to see Bill Gates arrive as the keynote speaker. Retired USAF Major Errol Lee Reksten, 76 of Ooltewah, Tennessee, died on Sunday, May 26, 2019. He was born in Minneapolis, Mn., to the late Theodore and Gladys Lee Reksten. Major Reksten attended the University of Wisconsin, where he received his BS in Mechanical Engineering. He then served in the U.S. Air Force as a C-130 navigator during Vietnam and earned the Distinguished Flying Cross. After finishing two tours in Vietnam, he was then stationed in England where he met his wife, Gillian Combes. Together they came back to the U.S. and were married. Major Reksten later returned to school, earning his masters degree from the University of Arizona. Before he retired from the military, they were stationed at various bases throughout the U.S. and in several overseas countries as well. He was preceded in death by his brother, John Reksten. Survivors include his loving wife of 49 years, Gillian Reksten; children, Stephen Reksten, Murfreesboro, Philip Reksten, Ooltewah, Sarah Reksten (Marcus) Shaw, Chantilly, Va.; Catherine Reksten, Chattanooga, and Nicholas (Leah) Reksten, Redlands, Ca.; grandchildren, Lauren and Kelly; sister, Sylvia (Carl) Ross, Rochester, MN; brother, Robert (Dawn) Reksten, Adell, Wi. and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 31, in the Chattanooga National Cemetery with full military honors provided by the U.S. Air Force. The family would like to thank Hearth Hospice for their loving care and support. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Alzheimers Association, 7625 Hamilton Park Drive, Suite #6, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421. Please visit www.heritagechattanooga.com to share words of comfort. There will be no visitation at the funeral home. Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421. Mike Purcell of Hixson has earned his real estate brokers license. He has been affiliated with RE/MAX Renaissance for three years. Mr. Purcell is a resident of Hixson and grew up in Lookout Valley. He started his real estate career after building a successful career at Tennessee Valley Authority in engineering and management. After 36 years, he decided to start to a second career in real estate joining his wife, Brenda Beam Purcell, also a broker. The couple formed TeamPurcell working with RE/MAX Renaissance as full-time agents. As a licensed realtor, Mr. Purcell has quickly built a strong reputation and has many repeat clients. He is a 2018 graduate of the Chattanoogas Association of Realtors Leadership Class and is presently serving on the Governmental Relations Committee and the Grievance Committee at the association. Additionally, Mike has received the Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR) designation and the coveted Council of Real Estate Specialists (CRS) designation. He specializes in commercial and residential sales and leasing. Mr. Purcell is active in volunteering with the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and is proud to be a MOC fan. Mr. Purcell received a master's in Business Administration (MBA) degree from UTC in 1998. He is also an avid supporter of the Museum of Flight and attends Burks United Methodist Church. RE/MAX Renaissance of Hixson is at 6204 Hixson Pike, Suite 112, and now features eight real estate professionals with more than 40 years of combined experience in both residential and commercial sales. The firm serves clients throughout the Chattanooga area and Northwest Georgia. To reach Mr. Purcell, contact him at 423 648-8200 (office) or by cell phone at 423 635-2146. The Tennessee Reconnect Scholarship is a last-dollar scholarship that will allow all Tennessee adults who qualify to attend an eligible institution free of tuition and mandatory fees. This state-wide program for adults 24 or older has proven to be a great success for students that put off college following high school or who experienced real life obstacles preventing their return to school. Typically, adult students are acutely aware of their responsibilities and often apprehensive about heading back to school after six or more years out of high school. The Reconnect program at Chattanooga State offers support for adult students and helps them work through or around barriers to help them succeed. Chattanooga State Community College has published stories about Reconnect students, who like most adult students, desperately wanted to return to get a degree, but remained apprehensive about actually doing it; however, they did it, and you can too. When Donna Pickering was a teen, her dream was to become a special effects makeup artist after seeing Star Wars. She saved up money to move to LA, but her life took a different path and she sacrificed her dream. After 42 years, Donna returned to school and says that she had the time of her life, graduating with a 4.0 GPA in 2019 with a degree in Digital Media Design & Production as a Media Technologies major. Family support was a contributing factor in Al Sands return to college after a 20-year hiatus. Starting out with one class to get back into the groove, he wanted to make sure he could manage working full-time while attending college. The Reconnect grant has helped me financially to continue my education without the burden of student loans, states Al, who graduated in December 2018 as an Accounting major using the Tennessee Transfer Pathway. Its a fact: life happens. 39-year-old Rosanna Walker started college after high school, but did not finish her degree. She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant with a goal of becoming a nurse. Marriage and two children later, she enrolled in the LPN program and graduated in 2011. Following the birth of her third child, Rosanna wanted more and TN Reconnect was her ticket. With the financial assistance, advising and part-time flexibility that Reconnect offers, now is the time to invest in your future and your familys future, advises Rosanna. Watching each of your children graduate from college is a source of parental pride; however, knowing that you did not graduate due to life circumstances can be a little sad, so, following the graduation of his youngest daughter, 52-year-old Jim Fry decided it was time to return and meet his goal. Selecting history as his major, Jim had no idea that his life would change so dramatically. He became ensconced in student life becoming a member of two honor societies, helped to resurrect the C.AD.R.E. Adult Student club, spoke publicly on behalf of Reconnect, became a published author, and this spring was named as Community College Student of the Year during the Statewide Outstanding Achievement Recognition award ceremony by the College System of Tennessee. Jims empathy and love of education is contagious. Jim also served as the keynote speaker during Chattanooga States 2019 Commencement Exercises. Through Governor Haslams Drive to 55,the TN Reconnect grant has made it possible for me to attend tuition-free and focus on these new goals I have set for myself, states Jim. Inspirational stories about adult students who have found new meaning and purpose in their lives thanks to the benefits derived from TN Reconnect can be found at https://www.chattanoogastate.edu/adult-success-stories. TN Reconnect is a game changer for many adult students. To find out more about TN Reconnect, Chattanooga State offers regular Information Sessions led by Marsha Barker of Adult Services. These sessions will help qualified students find out what is required, how to apply, and explain how TN Reconnect can help them attain their goals. Sessions held at 10 a.m. are scheduled for May 30 and June 22; 5 p.m. sessions will be held June 18 and 27. All sessions are held in the Instructional Materials Center, room 124. To sign up for a session or for more information, call 697-3346 or visit https://www.chattanoogastate.edu/tnreconnect. Martha Irene Kunberger, 91, one of Gods choice servants, was ushered into the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday morning, May 26, 2019. Her parents, Fredrick and Ellen Kunberger, and two sisters preceded her in death. She is survived by her brother John Kunberger, sister-in-law, Bonnie Kunberger, three nieces, and two nephews. She was a long-time servant of her Lord. Martha started for the mission field in 1956 aboard an ocean liner, which took 16 days to arrive in Africa. Martha was one of those who would make up that first group of Baptist International Missions, Inc. (BIMI), missionaries. After Martha served four years in the Congo, the missionaries had to be evacuated. God closed the door there and opened another door of opportunity on another continent and with a new language to learn. For 18 years she served God faithfully in Nicaragua, Central America, until a government uprising forced all foreigners to leave. Once again, she sought the Lords direction and joined a work in Guatemala. Martha served four years before this country also underwent a political uprising, and Martha was among those missionaries evacuated. Nothing would cause Martha to lose her heart for missions and God was not finished with her. In 1985, BIMI asked her to work at BIMIs Home Office where she assisted with Spanish-speaking ministries and Bible correspondence courses. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Baptist International Missions, Inc., or to Lakewood Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 13 p.m. on Friday, May 31, at Lakewood Baptist Church, 6626 Hunter Road, Harrison, Tn. 37341, followed by the funeral service at 3 p.m. with Pastor Ronnie Gilbert and Dr. J.B. Godfrey officiating. Arrangements are held by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com. DPD Explorer Honored With Life Saving Award The Dalton Police Department honored one of its youngest members at Tuesday mornings monthly meeting of the Dalton Public Safety Commission. Dalton Police Explorer Timothy Kittle was presented with the departments Life Saving Award for his role in saving a mans life after he was involved in a motorcycle crash in South Carolina. The incident happened while Kittle, who is a member of the agencys police explorers post, was with family in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for spring break. While traveling on Highway 17, Kittle and his family witnessed the crash between a car and a motorcycle. Kittle ran up to assist the motorcyclist who was suffering from a broken leg and was bleeding heavily. Kittle head recently completed the Stop the Bleed training course at a conference with the police explorers and put his training into action. Kittle took the cord from a pair of headphones and fashioned a tourniquet around the mans leg, and later used a bystanders t-shirt to assist as a secondary tourniquet. After emergency medical personnel responded, the man survived his injuries. Officer David Saylors, who is the commanding officer of the DPDs police explorers, presented Kittle with the Life Saving Award.The Police Explorer Program allows young men and women to gain training and experience in the law enforcement field. The program is designed for students between ages 14 and 20 and includes both classroom instruction and physical training. The program also provides opportunities for community involvement and development. Program activities center around law enforcement training, organized recreational activities and competitive events. To be eligible for the program, members must maintain at least a C average in every class, and must remain enrolled in school until graduation or earn a GED and must attend regularly scheduled meetings, including physical training. DFD Honors Civilians In Life Saving Effort Fire Chief Todd Pangle also presented awards for life saving heroics, but the DFDs honors were bestowed upon citizens, not firefighters. On March 18th, 2019, firefighters were dispatched to a report of a man who suffered an apparent heart attack while running on a treadmill. When firefighters arrived, they found two citizens performing CPR on the patient while a third applied an automatic emergency defibrillator. Dalton firefighters took over caring for the patient, and were able to regain his pulse. After receiving further care at the hospital, the patient was able to return to his normal life a little more than a week later. Chief Pangle presented the three citizens with an award for their life-saving efforts. Kyle Owen and Thomas Morrison received the honors at Tuesday mornings meeting while Dr. Kudzai Chikwava was unable to attend. New DPD Officers Confirmed Also at Tuesday mornings meeting, the DPD welcome five new officers to the ranks after they were confirmed by the commission. Chief Cliff Cason presented new officers Alan Fouts, Payton Kell, Colten McDaniel, Jonathan Parson, and Daniel Sartin for the commissions approval. Officer Fouts is a 2015 graduate of LaFayette High School in Walker County. After earning his high school diploma, Fouts began working for the Walker County Sheriffs Office, where he served until joining the Dalton Police Department. He also served from 2014 until 2018 as a volunteer firefighter with Walker County Emergency Services. He also served with the Georgia Army National Guard before earning a medical discharge. Officer Kell graduated from Northwest Whitfield High School in 2013 and has attended Dalton State College and Liberty University. Officer McDaniel is a 2018 graduate of Dalton State College. While studying at Dalton State, McDaniel was also employed with the Dalton Police Department as part of the agencys enhanced internship program which gives students a chance to be immersed in the agency to learn more about careers in law enforcement. He is a 2013 graduate of LaFayette High School. Officer Parson received his bachelors degree from the University of West Georgia in 2013. Before joining the Dalton Police Department, he worked for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. He is a 2008 graduate of Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe High School. Officer Sartin is a 2011 graduate of Murray County High School. Officer Sartin joins the Dalton Police Department after working for the last five years with Mohawk Industries. The quintet of new officers was confirmed by a unanimous 3-0 vote of the Public Safety Commission (commission members Keith Whitworth and Kenneth Willis were not in attendance). DFD Promotions Chief Pangle presented three members of the Dalton Fire Department for promotion at Tuesday mornings meeting of the PSC. Alan Ridley was promoted from captain to the rank of battalion chief. Battalion Chief Ridley has served with the department since April 1999, rising through the ranks of the agency to captain of C shift in October 2015. Chief Ridley became an officer in 2007. Damion Epps moved up to the rank of captain after serving as B shift lieutenant since November 2007. Captain Epps also joined the fire department in 1999. Captain Epps became an officer in 2007 and has also served as a fire investigator. Robbie Townsend was promoted to rank of lieutenant. Lt. Townsend joined the fire department in 2008, and has most recently served in the departments training division. Lt. Townsend also filled in multiple times as the temporary lieutenant for C shift while serving as a member. All three promotions were confirmed by a unanimous 3-0 vote of the commission (commission members Keith Whitworth and Kenneth Willis were not in attendance). The Dalton Public Safety Commission is comprised of Chairman William B. Weaver, Terry Mathis, Anthony Walker, Keith Whitworth and Kenneth E. Willis. Jonas Bonnier the author behind the true-crime novel The Helicopter Heist picked up his phone in Sweden to discuss the upcoming Netflix original with The Cheat Sheet. From the literary geniuses he admires to the criminals by nature he had to fictionalize, Bonniers sense of awe concerning the power of language seeps through my iPhone speaker. Endearingly dismissive of his own command of the English language, Bonnier depicts himself an extension of the novel; he may be the creator, but it is the creation that gives the writer his credence. The Helicopter Heist by Jonas Bonnier | Image: Other Press Bonnier has written quite the masterpiece for his U.S. debut The Helicopter Heist; however, his humbled excitement carries nothing but a sense of appreciation, for he was offered the story as a response to a failed pitch. When asked how he found his way to this true-crime tale, a narrative existing in a genre disparate from his other Swedish works, Bonnier explained: I sat down and said to myself, I have to really write something that will work internationally: a big smash hit. And I thought I was so smart. I thought I had done something that would make Harry Potter look like some sort of niche, literary stuff that nobody paid attention to. I was ecstatic about it. In Sweden, I didnt really know who to turn to. This one agent. He was sort of regarded as the number one guy here in Scandinavia, so I went to him with the script. To my amazement, he read it, and he called me back in seven days and said lets talk about it. He said, this is really good and youre a really great writer, and this is wonderful. And after 15 minutes or so, he said, well you understand nobody will publish this. When I grasped what he was saying, I realized that this meeting was over. I was reaching for the door, and at the same time, when I was about to leave, he asked me are you interested in writing about The Helicopter Heist? Truthfully, I never heard about The Helicopter Heist, so I turned around and said yes, of course, I want to do that. Bonnier goes on to recount the nerve-racking phone call that came the following day. Asked if he would like to interview one of the criminals he would fictionalize, a meeting was arranged before Bonnier could process the conversation. He met one of the most notorious robbers first: tall, very slim and intimidating would be his everlasting impression. He eventually met with all four subjects, in a room together: I asked them if they could assemble the four of them and we can talk through that night, and the preparations. And they did. But, at that time, they had been in prison for seven years, so that was actually the first time they met after the prison sentences, so they were sort of confused, but finally they got the story together. I was thrilled, so thats why I wrote it. I wrote it because I fell in love with these characters. They lent themselves so well because they were so individually different. and at the same time, they were all, to me, who had never been exposed to any crimes, they were sort of mysteries. The Cheat Sheet: When writing about each person, what did you feel you owed the real individuals? How do you both pay homage to their lives, and their story, while turning them into dramatized characters? Jonas Bonnier: It was kind of weird. Getting into the writing process after a couple of months in my studies, I had sort of turned them into my characters. I was feeling that I wrote some really private, personal things. I felt sort of strange about that. I was writing this in Miami, and I actually went back to Stockholm and read a couple of chapters back to them just so they knew how it sounded. I mean, with all of us, we were so aware of the fact that Im turning them into fictional characters, and Im not trying to do a nonfiction book about what actually happened. Im trying to write a novel. For me, that was obvious, but I was amazed that even for them it made sense. The Cheat Sheet: Theres one line in the book that Id like to direct you to, in which you describe the scar on your characters head as a fallen halo that had branded him for life. When did you realize language had the ability to transfer such a poignant sentiment? When did you discover the power of language? Jonas Bonnier: I wrote music and I wrote lyrics. And, performing in all these small venues where people got drunk and couldnt care less about my sufferings, that I tried to convey on stage, I realized that a three-minute song is not how I can express myself. And then I realized also that If I wanted to get into writing, I had to read. The Cheat Sheet: So, what did you read? What were your early inspirations? Jonas Bonnier: Im a big missionary when it comes to books. I read something I really like, I cant stop talking about it. I cant stop buying that book as a gift to my friends. John Fowles:The Magus. I remember when I read that, how absorbed I became. Early Salman Rushdie books. Im a big reader, and I read to love it. Thats my whole purpose. The power of the word is so profound; the skill is something you sort of acquire through writing and writing and writing and writing. Thats my process. The Cheat Sheet: How did you feel about molding these four people who were criminals into protagonists, or at the least, people you could root for? Jonas Bonnier: I think that I poured a lot of respect, but I dont think that I enhanced them. You laugh with them, and you laugh at that sometimes. Theyre not portrayed in a heroic kind of way. At least I dont think so. I think theyre portrayed in a sort of basic human way. I think that what I did is that I turned the robbers into human beings, rather than I turned them into protagonists or heroes. And to me, I dont think its morally questionable to turn them into human beings. You root for them because you feel them. You feel connected to them. You can identify with them, but again, not in a sort of I want to be that guy way, but rather I could be that guy way. The Cheat Sheet: Do you have any specific hopes or concerns regarding the Netflix original? Jonas Bonnier: Fortunately, Ive done some work in Hollywood, and Ive worked as a screenwriter, and Ive been in the position where somebody acquired the option for a novel, and I was the one who would turn that into an 8-episode TV series, so, to tell you the truth, I dont have any ambitions whatsoever about the movie, because Im only the writer of the book. That means, that I dont have anything to say about the film. To be totally honest, whatever it turns out to be, Im 100% sure that I will not see it on the first day. Jonas Bonnier, from working as a screenwriter, knows the amount of work that goes into transforming a novel into a screenplay; thus, he wishes the movie nothing but the best and goes onto explain that the journey, each step that has been taken towards the film, has already been an enjoyable and exciting experience. The Helicopter Heist by Jonas Bonnier is available in the U.S. on May 28, 2019. Steven Knight is penning the script to the Netflix original starring Jake Gyllenhaal. Jessa Duggar is a #boymom no more! The Counting On Star has officially given birth to her third child, and its a girl. The bundle of joy, born on May 26, is the first daughter for Ben and Jessa. The couple, who wed in November 2014 are already parents to Spurgeon Elliot, 3 and Henry Wilberforce, 2. What did Ben and Jessa name their daughter? Jessa and Ben announced the arrival of their daughter via UsWeekly. The pair also shared the name they have chosen to give their newest arrival. According to their statement, Ivy Jane arrived safely at the couples home. The short and sweet name is a serious departure from their previous choices. Jessas eldest son has perhaps the most polarizing Duggar name in the history of the family. While several family members have attempted to call him Elliot or Eli, Spurgeon or Spurgy seems to be sticking, much to the dismay of many fans. When Henry, 2, arrived fans were relieved to find out the youngster was given a much more wearable first name. His middle name, however, is still a mouthful. Ivy seems to have gotten off easy. Both her first and middle names are feminine, classic and easily wearable. Where was Ivy Jane Seewald born? Jessa and several of her sisters have dealt with backlash for attempting homebirths. Joy-Anna and Jill were both rushed into emergency surgeries after attempting lengthy and painful homebirths. Joy-Annas son, Gideon, was born via c-section after hospital staff figured out he was breech. Jill Duggars two children, Israel and Sam were both born via emergency c-sections when labor did not progress. Jessa, however, has fared much better with her attempts. While she was rushed to the hospital after the delivery of Spurgeon due to heavy bleeding, she was able to deliver him naturally. Henrys homebirth went far smoother and no emergency transfer was required. It appears Jessa had a similar experience with Ivy Jane. Ivys birth weight might have something to do with the success, as well. The youngest Seewald was born at 7lbs and 14 ounces. Her big brothers tipped the scales at nearly 10lbs and nearly 9lbs. Joy-Anna and Jill both had large babies, as well. Joy-Annas Gideon was born at over 10lbs. There are more babies to come for the Duggar family While Jessa is the first Duggar lady to have a baby in 2019, she wont be the last. Kendra, Joy-Anna, and Anna Duggar all announced pregnancies within weeks of each other. Kendra and Joy-Anna are expecting their babies to arrive in the fall. Meanwhile, Anna is slated for a November 2019 delivery. The newest addition will be the sixth child for Anna and her disgraced husband, Joshua Duggar. More recently Lauren Swanson and Josiah Duggar announced that they too are expecting a special delivery. The couple, who shared the news of their miscarriage in a heartbreaking video earlier this year, is due in the early winter. Queen Elizabeth has been on the British throne for 67 years longer than anyone in British royal history and five years before she became the monarch, she married Philip Mountbatten, the former Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark. The couple has been together so long, most royal fans dont remember a time when they werent married, much less know anything about her romantic history. Is it possible Queen Elizabeth dated other men before she fell in love with her prince? Queen Elizabeth II | Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage There was just one serious contender for Queen Elizabeths heart By the time the then-Princess Elizabeth was in her late teens, there was no doubt that she would become Queen at a relatively young age. Her dad King George VI was in poor health following World War II because of the stress of the war, as well as his lifetime of heavy smoking. As the presumptive heiress to the throne, the King had to approve of Elizabeths choice of husband, and this was one of the reasons there werent many serious contenders for such a high-ranking position in the royal family. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip | Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images Elizabeth and Philip are distant cousins and they crossed paths a couple of times at family events when they were extremely young. According to The Express, Queen Elizabeth actually talked to Prince Philip for the first time in 1939 when she was just 13 years old during a Royal visit to the naval college in Dartmouth, and author Philip Dampier says that the young Elizabeth immediately started crushing on the handsome prince. The pair began writing to each other, but because his family was in exile and had very little money, her family initially did not see him as a suitable match. However, Elizabeth only had eyes for Philip. The only serious contender to Prince Philip was Henry Herbert (later 7th Earl of Carnarvon), says Rhys Hoffman. His Family owns the Highclere Estate (better known as Downton Abbey). Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip love at first sight In the 2014 documentary The Majestic Life of Queen Elizabeth II, royal historian Robert Lacy said that the Queen fell in love and married pretty much the first guy she met. Of course, its a slight exaggeration, says Lacy. But she met Prince Philip of Greece, as he then was in 1939 when he was a dashing naval cadet at Dartmouth Naval College. She had met him before at family occasions, but this was the occasion when, by her own account, the spark was struck. Ingrid Seward editor of Majesty Magazine agrees, saying that Prince Philip was a dashing and handsome prince, and Elizabeth never really had any affection for any other man. In 1946, when Elizabeth was 20, Philip asked King George VI for his daughters hand in marriage, and the monarch gave his approval. However, the couple did not make a formal engagement announcement until her 21st birthday. Princess Elizabeth married Philip Mountbatten on November 20, 1947, at Londons Westminster Abbey. What about Porchey? Fans of the Netflix royal drama The Crown are familiar with Lord Porchey Porchester, Queen Elizabeths close friend and racing manager. After growing up together and bonding over their love of horses, the two eventually reunited at the same time there were rumors about Prince Philips possible infidelity as he struggled with his role as consort. Its not clear how much the plot of the show differs from what happened in real life, but Elizabeth and Lord Porchester were actually good friends. However, once she met Philip, Porchester lost his chance to turn their relationship into something more. As Elizabeth told Philip in The Crown, I have nothing to hide from you, Porchey is a friend. And yes, there are those who would have preferred me to marry him, but to everyones regret and frustration the only person I have ever loved is you. Queen Elizabeth and Lord Porchester remained good friends until his death, and she even broke protocol and attended his private funeral. Actor Rob Lowes career has seen its ups and downs, but hes never stayed out of the spotlight for long. Now that hes poised to star in a spinoff of the popular show, 9-1-1, many people are wondering about the Parks & Recreation alumns off-screen life. For instance, does Lowe have kids and if so, how many? Heres what we found out. Who is Rob Lowe? Rob Lowe | Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images Born Robert Hepler on March 17, 1964, in Charlottesville, West Virginia, Lowes parents divorced when he was very young. In the wake of the breakup, Lowes mom, Barbara Lynn, relocated to Dayton, Ohio where she met and married a trial lawyer by the name of Charles Davis Lowe. Charles Lowe adopted Robert and lent him the surname he uses to this day. In 1968, Robert received a half-brother, Charles Davis Jr. who is better known today as actor Chad Lowe. The Lowes split up when Robert was five, and the family moved to Los Angeles. Rob Lowe made his television acting debut when he was just 15 years old. The show, a sitcom called A New Kind of Family, lasted but a single season but was evidently enough to catch the eye of casting agents who promptly placed the handsome young actor in several ABC Afterschool Specials, such as A Matter of Time and Schoolboy Father. A few more made-for-TV roles followed, including Thursdays Child. In 1983, Lowe landed a part in a Francis Ford Coppola movie, The Outsiders and also co-starred in a comedy called Class. The following year, Lowe appeared in The Hotel New Hampshire as well as a Gogos video, Turn To You, for which he was not credited. 1984 was also the year that Lowe starred as a youthful American hustler in Oxford Blues. Saint Elmos Fire, Youngblood, and About Last Night cemented Lowes status in the Hollywood brat pack pantheon of the 1980s. Rob Lowes career highs and lows In 1988, while campaigning for presidential candidate Michael Dukakis, Lowe found himself caught up in a sex tape scandal. The incident involved a female fan who, as it turned out, was of legal age for sex in Georgia, but not old enough to be filmed in the act. Rob didnt go to jail, but he did disappear from the Hollywood radar for a couple of years. 1990 saw a refreshed and recovered Lowe return to movies to deliver a star turn as Alex in Bad Influence. It was on the Bad Influence set that Lowe re-met his future wife, makeup artist Sheryl Berkoff. Interestingly, the pair first met one another in the 1980s, when Berkhoff was dating Lowes friend, actor, Emilio Estevez, and Lowe was fully dedicated to the wild-as-possible brat pack life. Is Rob Lowe married? Lowe is married to Berkoff the Los Angeles native boasts a successful professional career that goes all the way back to makeup and hair work on music videos in the 1980s. Sometimes going by the names Sherl or Cheryl, Berkoff was part of multiple MTV-style shorts and full-length films, including 1969 with Robert Downey Jr., Meet The Hollowheads, and Renegades. The year she tied the knot with Lowe, Berkoff did makeup and hair on numerous movies, including Eve of Destruction, Dogfight, The Dark Backward, and Frankie and Johnny with Al Pacino and Michelle Pfeiffer. Today, Berkoff contributes to the Lowe family coffers with her custom jewelry designs. Does Rob Lowe have kids? Indeed he does. Matthew Edward Lowe was born in 1993, and John Owen Lowe arrived two years later. Today, Matthew is a graduate of Duke University, and John is a law student at Stanford. As a unit, the Lowe clan stands fast as one of Hollywoods most successful families. The Duggar family just got a little bit bigger. Jessa Duggar and her husband Ben Seewald have welcomed baby No. 3. Ivy Jane Seewald was born on Sunday, May 26 at 5:57 p.m. and weighed 7 lbs, 4 oz. The Seewalds are understandably thrilled with the latest addition to their family (they already have two boys, Spurgeon and Henry). Were so grateful to God for this precious gift. She is already so loved. Her big brothers adore her! Jessa wrote in a blog post announcing Ivys birth. Ivy Jane arrived early Baby Ivy actually arrived a week and a half ahead of schedule. Jessas due date was June 5, and she suspected that she might go past her due date, since that is what happened with her two previous pregnancies. However, Ivy had other ideas. We were getting ready for church when my water broke, and we were thinking Well, I guess we have a change of plans! Jessa wrote. We were so surprised when she came two weeks earlier than her brothers, she added. We definitely werent expecting that! Jessa gave birth at home Jessa Seewald with baby Spurgeon and her sisters Jinger, Joy-Anna, and Jana. | Ida Mae Astute/ABC via Getty Images Counting On fans know that the Duggar women often prefer to attempt to give birth at home. For her third, Jessa decided to stick with the family tradition. Ivy was delivered at the Seewald family home after just 3 hours of labor. The short labor was a big change from Jessas first baby. In 2015, she was in labor for close to two days with Spurgeon. While she was ultimately able to deliver him at home, she was bleeding heavily after the birth and had to be rushed to the hospital, where she received a blood transfusion. Despite the complications she experienced with Spurgeon, Jessa opted for another home birth with Henry. Fortunately, that one went smoothly and her labor was much shorter. Why do the Duggars prefer home births? Jessa is part of a nationwide trend toward home birth. The number of women choosing to have their children outside of the hospital has been on the rise in recent years. However, home births are still quite uncommon. From 2004 to 2014, the share of out-of-hospital births rose from 1% to 1.5% of all U.S. births, according to a study by researchers at the University of Maryland in College Park. In 2014, there were 60,000 out of hospital births in the U.S., including 38,000 that took place at home. (Most of the others happened in a birth center.) Women have many reasons for choosing to avoid hospitals when having a baby. In the case of Jessas mom Michelle, she said she appreciated that delivering sixth child Jinger at home allowed her more control over the entire process. How different the home birth was! I was able to walk around, lean against the wall or counter, and move with the contractions rather than lying flat on my back in bed throughout labor, she wrote in her book The Duggars: 20 and Counting! Jessa apparently hoped for a similar experience to her moms. She also wanted to have a natural birth without painkillers, she explained to People after Spurgeon was born. However, she admitted that she had second thoughts about that decision midway through her labor. I said, Thats it! Im done! I am going to the hospital and Im going to get an epidural, she told the magazine. They asked me if I really wanted to do that and I said, No, I dont, but I do. I wanted to try natural if at all possible. Many Duggars do give birth in hospitals Jessas scary experience giving birth to Spurgeon highlights some of the risks that can come with a home birth. And shes hardly the only Duggar to face a difficult delivery. In fact, shes somewhat unusual in that her home births have been successful. Jessas big sister Jill labored at home for 20 hours with son Israel before heading to the hospital, where she was in labor for another 50 hours before she finally had a C-section. She tried a home birth again for baby No. 2, but he also arrived via C-section. Their sister Joy-Anna also wanted to have her baby at home, but she had to be rushed to the hospital for a C-section because her baby was breech. Jinger perhaps after seeing her sisters experience opted to head straight to the hospital in Laredo when she went into labor with Felicity last year. Even mom Michelle, who praised her home birth experience, gave birth to all but two of her kids in a hospital. Jessa is just the first of several Duggar women who will give birth this year. Her sisters-in-law Anna, Kendra, and Lauren are expecting, as is sister Joy-Anna. Whether they choose to have their babies at home or in a hospital remains to be seen, but whatever they decide, fans are hoping they all have safe deliveries and healthy babies! Meghan Markle is happily married to a real-life prince and is a new mom to boot, but a former famous friend claims that Markle gave her the cold shoulder after she met Prince Harry. Shes not the only person that Markle has treated this way, according to reports. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle | CHRIS JACKSON/AFP/Getty Images Did Markle distance herself from friends after she started dating Prince Harry? Markles relationship took off with Prince Harry after meeting him in 2016 and, if claims are to be believed, she started to distance herself from some of her friends. British TV presenter Lizzie Cundy said that she first met Markle when she was seated next to her at a charity dinner in 2013. The women were both single at the time and Markle asked the TV personality if she knew any famous British men. Cundy told the Daily Mail: We were having a chat and then she said: Do you know any famous guys? Im single and I really love English men. She responded, So I said: Well go out and find you someone. When Harry met Meghan Markle kept in touch with Cundy, as she explained that they chatted in London in the summer of 2016, the same trip that Markle first met Harry at a dinner party. Cundy later found out about the two dating and reached to Markle, texting her to say, I heard about Harry, and receiving the brief response, Yeah, I know. Well try and hook up. She never heard from her again, sharing, I was literally ghosted by her, a move she believes was in part due to palace aides advising Markle not to speak to the press. Markle ghosted other friends as well Cundy isnt the only person that Markle ghosted once her relationship with Harry took off. British journalist Piers Morgan is often prickly about Markle, in part, because he said she ghosted him. After she shut him out of her circle, hes held on to that resentment, most recently taking aim at the silly name that Prince Harry and Markle chose for their first child, Archie. Morgan shared in a 2018 episode of ITVs Loose Women: I was on Twitter one day, and I love Suits, the show she was on in America. So I follow four of the stars of Suits, including Meghan Markle, and within ten seconds, she immediately direct messaged me, saying, Im a massive fan of yours, this is great.' The two exchanged emails and met at Wimbledon. Morgan recalled, I said, Do you fancy a drink? Come to my local pub. And there we are, 90 minutes, just me and Meghan, Im thinking, great buddies, right? It didnt last long, however, as he shared: Next thing I know, silence. Off the radar. Another former friend, Ninaki Priddy, who was the maid of honor at Markles wedding to Trevor Engelson, has some insider perspective on this behavior. She told the Daily Mail: All I can say now is that I think Meghan was calculated very calculated in the way she handled people and relationships. She is very strategic in the way she cultivates circles of friends. Rumor has it, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are considering a move to Africa. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were allegedly offered a three-year assignment that, according to reports, would elevate their work for the Commonwealth. And, although it sounds like a great opportunity for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and they wouldnt make any big moves until at least 2020 the move could interfere with Meghan Markles application for British citizenship. Meghan Markle | Samir Hussein/Samir Hussein/WireImage Are Prince Harry and Meghan Markle moving to Africa? According to the Sunday Times, Prince William and Prince Harrys advisor, David Manning proposed a plan for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to build on their work for the Commonwealth in Africa. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are President and Vice President of the Queens Commonwealth Trust and will carry out their responsibilities in a Commonwealth country in Africa. Buckingham Palace has yet to confirm Prince Harry and Meghan Markles alleged move to Africa but they havent denied them either. Any future plans for The Duke and Duchess are speculative at this stage. No decisions have been taken about future roles, the palace said in a statement. How long will Prince Harry and Meghan Markle live in Africa? If the reports are true, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could move to Africa for up to a few years. But, while the Sunday Times reports a two to three year stay, others believe it could be closer to a few months. Either way, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex arent expected to make a decision until 2020, so they have some time to sort out the details of their stay. Either way, any time spent in Africa could impact Meghan Markles immigration to the United Kingdom How will it impact Meghan Markles immigration to the United Kingdom? Although she is a member of the royal family and married to a British prince, Meghan Markle is not a citizen yet. The Duchess of Sussex is currently in the United Kingdom on a family visa, which needs to be renewed every two and a half years. And, even with a family visa, she will have to wait five years before she is eligible for permanent citizenship. But, thats not the complicated part. It might take longer than five years for Meghan Markle to be granted citizenship (especially if she moves to Africa for two to three years). According to the BBC, the Duchess of Sussex can only apply for citizenship if she has spent less than 270 days outside of the United Kingdom in the last three years. Considering she only just made the move to the United Kingdom in fall 2017 (and spent some time overseas in Australia and New Zealand), she doesnt qualify for citizenship just yet. And, if she moves to Africa in 2020, it could really set her back. However, so long as she continues to renew her family visa every two and a half years, Meghan Markle can continue to live and work in the United Kingdom without permanent citizenship. Check out Showbiz Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Its no secret that Meghan Markle is quite the foodie. In addition to being a master chef herself, she loves to experience different foods in different cities. In a November 2017 interview with Eyeswoon, she revealed her favorite restaurants in New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto. Here they are listed below, along with a description of why each of them is so special. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle | Phil Noble Pool/Getty Images New York: Estela and Bohemian According to the restaurants website, Estela is a restaurant in downtown Manhattan from chef Ignacio Mattos. Set one floor above Houston Street, it is a bistro at heart, taking familiar ideas like tartare, ricotta dumplings, burrata on toast, fried rice, and steak, and presenting them in new, satisfying ways. The bar is open late, and you can come in for just a glass and a small bite, should you feel like it. Now in its 5th year, estela has earned numerous accolades, including a place on the Worlds 50 Best Restaurants List and two stars from both New York Magazine and the New York Times. Since Meghan Markle is such a fan of inventive spins on classic dishes, its no surprise Estela is one of her go-to New York hot spots. The very exclusive Bohemian also makes the list. Bohemian is a Japanese restaurant and bar in New York thats not open to the public (all new guests must be referred by existing patrons). We opened up a secret base for 21st century bohemians in a historical building once home to Andy Warhol and then the live-in studio of Jean-Michel Basquiat, the infamous graffiti artist from the 80s, reads the restaurants website. Kiyo is the president and executive chef whos an exceptional craftsman with an affinity for nature. Los Angeles: A.O.C. and Sushi Park A.O.C. is a wine bar in Los Angeles, California thats a favorite of Meghan Markles. Meghan Markle loves a good glass of wine, its one of her most-treasured indulgences. After opening critically acclaimed Lucques in 1998, the duo of 3 time James Beard Award winning chef Suzanne Goin (Whos Who of Food & Beverage in America 2017, Outstanding Chef 2016, Best Chefs in America California 2006, Best Cookbook Cooking from a Professional Point of View 2006) and James Beard Foundations Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year 2018 Caroline Styne embarked on A.O.C., the areas pioneering wine bar that first paired an indulgent list of wine by the glass with a menu of market-driven small plates, reads the website. Sushi Park may not appear as glamorous as the other restaurants on this list, but its still constantly packed with celebrities. This quintessential sushi spot is tucked away on the second floor of a nondescript strip mall on Sunset; its a good thing since seats (and opening hours) are limited. Its strictly Omakase at the sushi bar, and well worth itshould you take this option, youll have to cross your fingers that the blue crab hand roll (more and more ubiquitous around LA, but still superb) and skipjack sashimi are on the nights menu, reads goops Why We Love It review. Toronto: The Harbord Room The Harbord Room is now closed, but it used to be one of Meghan Markles favorite spots to eat when she was filming in Toronto. It was an intimate restaurant, seating about 24 and maybe 10 more at the bar, with a cozy feel. The Harbord Room was known for their expertly made cocktails, delicious burgers, and seasonally-inspired menu. Read more:Meghan Markles Favorite Junk Food May Surprise You In June, the British royal family will meet the Trump Family. Both countries are gearing up for the historic visit of the President of The United States to Buckingham Palace for an official state visit. The meeting will include Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles and his wife Camilla, Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton, and Prince Harry, among others. However, one person that will be notably absent is Meghan Markle. We have all the details on the upcoming banquet and why Markle will not attend, to satisfy your burning curiosity. What will the state visit look like? President Donald Trump | Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images The White House announced on April 23 the president and first lady had accepted the invitation of Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to visit the United Kingdom. According to the announcement, This visit will reaffirm the steadfast and special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom. The White House and Buckingham Palace are still discussing the final schedule, but its expected that Trump will join the royal family for a State Banquet at Buckingham Palace. People reported Middleton is expected to wear a tiara for the visit. Possibly the Lovers Knot tiara, which was a favorite of the late Princess Diana. A White House official confirmed that Trumps children, Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner, Tiffany Trump, Donald Trump Jr., and Eric Trump are planning to attend as well. Many are anxious for the younger generations, Trumps children with Prince William, Middleton, and Prince Harry, to meet. In fact, Express reported that a source close to Trump, says he is pushing for his children to meet the younger royals. Prince Harry will join Trump for a private lunch Before the State Banquet, the queen is hosting a private lunch for Trump and his wife, Melania. Its been reported that Prince Harry has been invited to join the lunch, but its not expected that Markle will join them. Harry has not been a part of many state visits in the past. The only visit hes attended so far was a visit with Spains monarch. However, according to CNN, a royal source says that going forward, they hope to see the Duke and Duchess of Sussex participate in more state events. Why wont Meghan Markle attend the state banquet? Even though Markle is an American citizen, and so would have been perfect for bringing the two countries together, she is still on maternity leave after the birth of Baby Archie. Markle has not returned to her royal duties yet and is not expected to for several months. Although she is scheduled to be at some big events, such as the Queens Birthday Parade. Middleton had similar maternity leaves after the birth of each of her three children. She spent almost six months home with her new babies before returning to royal duties, although she also attended big events, such as Harry and Markles wedding when Prince Louie was only about a month old. Prince Harry and Prince William have both opted out of paternity leave, although it is common for men in the U.K. to take time off after the birth of a child. Harry returned to work just three days after Archie made his debut. Its unfortunate that we wont have the opportunity to see Markle in a tiara, along with Middleton for this historic event. In fact, Markle hasnt had the opportunity to wear a tiara since her wedding. However, Harry and Markle seem like a strong couple, and so were sure that there will be many more state events in the future. And Markle will be stunning in the royal jewels. Before Baby Archie was even born, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry made it pretty well known that they wanted him to have a normal life, away from the spotlight. After all, this was their main reason for moving from Kensington Palace to the quiet, countryside town of Windsor. Despite rumors that they were leaving London to escape tension with other royal family members, it turns out that this was not true. They didnt want their son to grow up living his life in the public eye, with every move scrutinized, every decision criticized, and every outing photographed. Although it seems that both of the new parents are in agreement regarding this decision, fans have to wonder which of them will be responsible for giving Baby Archie Harrison a normal life will it be Harry or Meghan? Prince Harry knows all too well what living in the public eye can mean Prince Harry | Steve Parsons WPA Pool/Getty Images If anyone knows what it is like to live life under a microscope, it is Prince Harry. From the time he was born, he and his family have been followed by photographers on a regular basis, with just about everything happening in their lives becoming headline news. For instance, Harry was photographed by the news media on his first day of school, it was known to fans around the world when he took trips, and he couldnt step out for some recreational time without the flashbulbs going off. A tragedy in Prince Harrys life will make him more protective of Baby Archie Just about every royal fan can remember where they were and what they were doing when they heard the devastating news that Harrys mother, Princess Diana, had been tragically killed in a car crash in Paris. Harry was only 12 years old at the time that his mother was taken from him so suddenly. He has openly spoken about the impact that it had on him, and how difficult it was growing up without a person that he so desperately needed. On the night of the accident, Diana and her boyfriend, Dodi Fayed, were being chased by photographers, who continued to snap pictures even after the horrific crash occurred. Princes William and Harry have always blamed the photographers for the accident. Meghan Markle grew up in a different environment Thousands of miles away in California, Meghan grew up living what can be called a normal life. Although her father, Thomas Markle, often took her to work with him on the set of the popular show Married With Children, Meghan wasnt living a life in the spotlight. She wasnt yet famous, and unlike Harry, she had no idea what it meant to have every move watched by the entire world. This life meant that Meghan could do things that Harry couldnt, such as eating out at restaurants without people taking pictures, or walk down the street seemingly unnoticed. Now that she is a royal, she is experiencing the same life in the spotlight that Harry has had since the day he was born. Which parent will be responsible for giving Baby Archie a quiet life? Chances are, they both will. Although Harry seems like he is desperate for little Archie to have a quiet upbringing, it would seem that Meghan certainly agrees. Over the past few years, she has become one of the most popular women in the entire world, suddenly living her life in the royal spotlight. In fact, when she and Harry first began dating, he feared for her safety. It would appear that Meghan and Harry are going above and beyond and doing everything that they can to make sure that Archie is shielded from the public eye. The entire world recently jumped up and down in excitement at the news Baby Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor is finally here. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry can hardly contain their excitement, and we cant blame them. Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and Baby Archie | DOMINIC LIPINSKI/AFP/Getty Images Fans as well as the news media cant wait to see more of the precious newborn, as we only caught a glimpse of him as he napped in in fathers arms. When the Duke and Duchess of Sussex make their next appearance with their son, there will certainly be plenty of photographers just waiting to get a picture. So, will the media be more focused on Baby Archie than the Cambridge kids? We saw the Cambridge kids as soon as they were born Although we didnt find out their names for a few days, as is typical royal protocol, Kate and William wasted no time introducing their kids to the world. Very soon after they were born, Kate, looking completely put together from head to toe, stepped out alongside her husband with a new bundle in her arms. There were close up shots of all of the childrens cute faces, and details were released within days. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were very private in the months leading up to the birth As was not the case with William and Kate, Meghan and Harry were very tight-lipped before the arrival of Archie. No one knew whether Meghan would be delivering at a hospital or at home, and we didnt know when her due date was, either. It was quite a surprise when, immediately following Archies birth, the news was revealed that Meghan had given birth to a healthy baby boy weighing in at 7 lbs, 3 oz since we werent expecting to find out the details for a few days at least. It looks like the new royal parents were just too excited to keep the good news to themselves. Prince William and Kate Middleton are raising their children according to royal protocol Kate and William are exceptional hands-on parents, engaging with and taking part in their childrens life whenever their schedules permit. When they have royal engagements or duties to tend to; however, George, Charlotte, and Louis are well-taken care of by the familys nanny. We dont see pictures of them very often, unless it is at an official event, such as a wedding, christening, or an appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. Harry and Meghan, by contrast, are said to be planning on doing things their own way, even without hiring any help to take care of Archie. This has, of course, piqued the interest of the news media as well as royal fans, as we cant wait to see what is in store for the newest member of the royal family. The media will take an interest in Baby Archie Chances are, the news media is anxious to see what Meghan and Harrys parenting guidelines are going to be. They are very quiet about the details of what is going on with Archie so far, and we can imagine that once everyones questions are answered, photographers wont be any more focused on him than they are on the Cambridge children. Most likely, we will see Archie at royal events, just like we did with his cousins, and we certainly hope that Meghan and Harry are planning some official family photographs sooner rather than later. Just like everyone else, we are just waiting to see what the future holds for Archie Harrison. There always seems to be something extremely interesting going on in the royal family. Whether it is rumors of a feud or affair or the birth of a new baby, things are certainly never boring. Recently, the entire world was surprised when the news was announced that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle would likely be moving to Africa for a few months. This seems like the perfect place for them to spend some time, since Africa, Botswana in particular, was the place where they traveled to together early in their relationship, and falling in love. Though, some reports claim the move wont happen after all. Although nothing is set in stone just yet, we have to wonder if Prince William would get angry if Meghan and Harry did not make the move to Africa as originally planned. Why were Prince Harry and Meghan Markle going to move in the first place? Prince Harry and Meghan Markle | George Pimentel/WireImage As we all know, Meghan and Harry just recently left London and moved into Frogmore Cottage, located about 40 miles outside the city. Many people are wondering why they would pack up and leave for another country when they just spent so much time renovating a new home. It seems as if the move is part of their royal work. They would be in the country building upon the humanitarian work they already do and love so much. It would be beneficial as part of Meghan and Harrys work for the Commonwealth, and it appears to be just the kind of project that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are so wonderful at doing. When would Prince Harry and Meghan Markles move take place? If the move were to happen, a decision would not be made until next year. Meghan and Harry wont be packing their bags in the upcoming days and leaving England suddenly. They will be able to spend some time at Frogmore Cottage with Archie Harrison for a while as they get settled as a new family of three. Are there other reasons why Meghan Markle and Prince Harry might move? In the midst of rumors of a royal feud between the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, many fans were quick to assume that this might be at least part of the reason as to why Meghan and Harry might go to Africa. These rumors have been denied, although it is suspected among royal fans that the move was partly to put Kate Middleton and William back in the spotlight as the future king and queen. Everyone has been so focused on Meghan and Harry for the past year, and this just might be the perfect way to get everyone to focus more on William and Kate. Would Prince William be angry if Meghan Markle and Prince Harry didnt move after all? Chances are, he certainly would not be angry. William is extremely fair and level-headed, and he has always been supportive of his younger brother. William and Kate are not the types of people to seek attention by any means, and if Meghan and Harry were to stay in England, they would find other ways to subtly put the focus on themselves. No matter what, Harry and William have always stuck together in all of their endeavors. They are friends as well as brothers, and they understand that plans can change, even for royal family members. There are other ways William and Kate can focus the royal spotlight back on them. Its an exciting time to be a Marvel Cinematic Universe fan. Avengers fans were completely enthralled with Endgame, and now that the summer movie season is upon us, were gearing up for the release of Spider-Man: Far From Home. In Spider-Mans latest adventure, we see him travel to Europe with his friends while simultaneously attempting to save the world with new allies and enemies to fight. And of course, were all excited to see how Peter Parkers relationship with Michelle Jones progresses. While Tom Holland and Zendayas characters are ultra-close in the movie, it seems the rumors wont quit that the two are dating in real life. But we cant forget that even before Zendaya and Holland were linked, the actress reportedly had another secret relationship no one knew about. Its been long speculated that Tom Holland and Zendaya are secretly dating Zendaya and Tom Holland | Fotonoticias/FilmMagic Since Spider-Man: Far From Home began filming years ago, fans of the film have noticed how close Tom Holland and Zendaya are. Elle reminds us Holland posted a photo of him and Zendaya hanging out off set in July 2016 to Instagram, and the following November, the two shared the cover of The Hollywood Reporter, which really got fans talking. And a source told People in 2017 that the two were definitely romantically linked. As the source claimed, They started seeing each other while they were filming Spider-Man.Theyve been super careful to keep it private and out of the public eye but theyve gone on vacations with each other and try and spend as much time as possible with one another. And this source isnt the only one thats mentioned the two may be dating. Seventeen notes Disney star Skai Jacksons mother, Kiya Cole, once posted to Instagram, Yes. Its true. They been on the low for a while, in regards to the rumored romance. She seemingly had a secret boyfriend for years before Holland For being in the public eye, Zendaya has become a master at keeping her private life private. And she even told Vogue that she had a boyfriend of four years that the public seemingly never knew about. Zendaya was in a relationship from 2012 to 2016 and noted to the publication that he was her first love but it didnt end well. As she said of the breakup, You know youre OK in a breakup when your first thought is not, What did I do wrong? Its, that was the dumbest decision of your life, and youre going to regret it forever. As for who the man in question was, Elite Daily notes it was heavily speculated that she dated long-time friend Trevor Jackson. Both Zendaya and Jackson denied the romance, however, but fans thought it was suspicious when they both unfollowed each other on Instagram, Seventeen notes. Zendaya continues to reject the rumors of her and Holland, however Wait waitmy favorite is when it says we go on vacations together HA! I haven't been on a vacation in years!hbu @TomHolland1996 ??? https://t.co/zSkvcfzzTa Zendaya (@Zendaya) July 13, 2017 It seems fans never got confirmation as to whether Zendaya and Trevor Jackson ever really dated. And since shes the queen of keeping her love life a secret, it seems we may never really know the truth about her relationship with Holland, either. Both Zendaya and Holland have gone out of their way to deny the rumors of a romance, however. After Peoples article was released, Elle reports Zendaya took to Twitter to write, Wait waitmy favorite is when it says we go on vacations together HA! I havent been on a vacation in years! hbu @TomHolland1996 ??? To that, Holland replied, Does the press tour count? And even more recently, Zendaya denied the dating rumors again when her and Holland had a funny interaction on Instagram involving an unfortunate tagging of her name on his post. Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Blessing bikes, planting flags: What churches are doing to celebrate Memorial Day 28 May, 2019 by Michael Gryboski , | Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States centered on remembering members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have died. In addition to the usual festivities of parades, gatherings, and the decorations of graves, churches across the country have their own ways of observing the solemn holiday. First Baptist Church of Dallas held a remembrance service on Sunday. "We will take a moment in the service to remember those who have given their lives to protect our nation," Pastor Robert Jeffress told CP on Friday via email. "After verbally acknowledging their sacrifice, 'Taps' will be played and a prayer will be offered for the families of our military men and women who have died in the service of our country." Jeffress also told CP that FBC Dallas has an annual service with a focus on American nationalism called "Freedom Sunday," which is scheduled to take place on June 30. "We will dedicate the entire service to celebrating our freedom as Americans and as Christians," continued Jeffress, whose congregation has garnered controversy in the past for the patriotic themes of the service. "In addition to the inspiring patriotic and inspirational music, we will recognize all who have served in all branches of the military. Our guest speaker that day will be Lt. Col. Oliver North who will share his Christian testimony." The Washington National Cathedral, a prominent Episcopal Church congregation in the nation's capital, held a "Blessing of the Bikes" event early Friday evening. The event was created in 2014 and held as a way to welcome participants of the Rolling Thunder motorcycle gathering who were traveling to the area for the holiday weekend. Included on the agenda was a brief service with a two-bell ceremony. From there, attendees departed for a candlelight vigil held at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Ruth Frey, director of programs at Washington National Cathedral, told CP in a 2015 interview that the annual event reminds them that "we cannot fully recognize and honor the living without also remembering those who have been lost." "This event with Rolling Thunder is part of the Cathedral's ongoing initiative to recognize and pay tribute to veterans, to offer a sacred space for spiritual healing, and to educate the civilian public about the experience of veterans and the challenges they and their families face when returning home," said Frey at the time. This year's "Blessing of the Bikes" might be the final one, as the Military Times is reporting that Rolling Thunder will not return in 2020. Continue reading about Memorial Day on The Christian Post. JOS, Nigeria, May 27, 2019 (Morning Star News) Suspected Fulani herdsmen stormed a church choir practice and kidnapped 17 Christians in north-central Nigeria the night of May 18, and the same night gunmen killed a Christian and kidnapped two others at a Baptist church, sources said. Each attack took place in Kaduna state, where assaults on Christians with impunity have recently ramped up in the increasingly lawless country. In Dankande village, in the Dogon Dawa area of Birnin Gwari County 120 kilometers (75 miles) west of the city of Kaduna, the gunmen attacked Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) after midnight, at 12:30 a.m. on May 19, as a combined choir made up of members of two churches was at a 9 p.m.-to-1 a.m. rehearsal, one of the choir members said. As we were in the church, Fulani herdsmen numbering over 20 just surrounded the church and started shooting, Ezekiel Ishaya told Morning Star News. Everybody was terrified, but there was no way we could run because they had already surrounded the church. They were asking for the pastors house, and they threatened to shoot us if we dont show them the house. Some of them went to the pastors house while others kept watch over us. The Rev. Nathaniel Waziri, chairman, of the ECWA Zaria District Church Council, confirmed in a press statement on Thursday (May 23) that the gunmen kidnapped the Rev. Zakariya Ido, his daughter and 15 other church members, including the son of the pastor of an Assemblies of God Church. The gunmen came and asked everyone in the church to surrender phones and thereafter demanded the whereabout of the pastor, he said. After threatening the choristers, they became afraid and showed them the pastors house. Ishaya said besides the ECWA pastor and his daughter, 10 females and five males were abducted. It was in the midst of the confusion that I escaped from the attackers, Ishaya said. The Rev. Emmanuel Ibrahim, chairman of the Birnin Gwari chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), confirmed the assault and said Nasara Baptist church in Guguwa-Kwate village, in the Rigasa area of Igabi County 37 kilometers (22 miles) north of the city of Kaduna, was attacked the same night. One member was killed and two other members were kidnapped the same night by another group of Fulani herdsmen, Pastor Ibrahim told Morning Star News, identifying the slain Christian as Obadiah Samson. Kaduna Kidnappings Christians and churches in Kaduna state have been under attack for years by either herdsmen or Muslim terrorist groups. Armed herdsmen in May 2017 kidnapped pastor James Effiong Okon of The Apostolic Church in Zaria while he was on his way from Zaria, Kaduna state, to the city of Kaduna. Pastor Okon was area superintendent of the Apostolic Church in Lawna, Cote DIvoire, before being transferred to Zaria. There has been no word of him since he was kidnapped. In March 2016, a Fulani gang kidnapped three pastors. The president and vice president of the United Church of Christ in Nigeria (HEKAN), the Rev. Emmanuel Dziggan and the Rev. Illiya Anthony respectively, along with the Rev. Yakubu Dzarma, were abducted from Dutse village in Kaduna state. Pastor Anthony fell ill and was reportedly left in the forest to be found by relatives, while the other two church leaders were held for nine days before a ransom was paid for their release. Christians make up 51.3 percent of Nigerias population, while Muslims living primarily in the north and middle belt account for 45 percent. Nigeria ranked 12th on Open Doors 2019 World Watch List of countries where Christians suffer the most persecution. If you would like to help persecuted Christians, visit http://morningstarnews. org/resources/aid-agencies/ fo r a list of organizations that can orient you on how to get involved. A Syrian soldier was killed and another injured Monday after an attack on a military post in Syria. According to the Associated Press, Israel said it had fired into Syria in response to attacks from Syria on an Israeli combat plane. Syrian state TV said the Israeli attack was on a military outpost near Khan Arnabeh, a town on the edge of Golan Heights. Israel said earlier Monday a Syrian anti-aircraft firing system attacked an Israeli plane as it was carrying out a routine flight in Israel. In response, we targeted the Syrian launcher that was responsible for firing it, a military official said, adding that the Israeli military sees any threat against its aircraft with great severity and takes measures to defend them." Israels Prime Minister released a statement, saying the Syrian army tried to harm an Israeli plan and didnt succeed. "Our policy is clear - we are not prepared to tolerate any aggression against us, we will retaliate against it forcefully and decisively," the statement said. In recent years, Israel has taken responsibility for hundreds of strikes, according to Reuters. In Syrias Idlib province, a Syrian rebel stronghold, about a dozen civilians have been killed in fighting over the past two days. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, some 78 air raids and 70 barrel bombs were dropped from helicopters Monday. Another 225 shells and missiles have also been launched. Since April 30, more than 800 people have been killed in the violence in the area. Of that, 236 were civilians. According to Reuters, several international non-government organizations and groups are asking for an immediate stop to the attacks on civilians in the area. Photo courtesy: Cole Keister/Unsplash Rep. Ilhan Omar told the House Thursday that pro-life activists do not care about childrens lives. According to Life Site News, the democratic representative from Minnesota was responding to Alabamas new abortion ban, which makes abortion illegal after six weeks, and another abortion ban in Georgia. Religious fundamentalists are currently trying to manipulate state laws in order to impose their beliefs on an entire society, all with complete disregard for voices and the rights of American women, she said. The recent efforts like those in Alabama, in Georgia, are only the latest in a long history of efforts to, to punish us when we dont conform to their attempts to control us. Omar added that if the religious right cared about children, they would also be concerned about the children that are being detained and those that are dying in camps across our borders. Or the children who are languishing in hunger and facing homelessness. I am frustrated every single time I hear people speaking about their faith, and pushing that onto other people, because we know, those so-called religious politicians, when it comes to their life, their choices, they want to talk about freedom, Omar declared. But when it comes to other peoples lives and other peoples choices, they want to talk about religion. Earlier this month, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed the abortion bill into law, making nearly all abortions in the state illegal unless the mothers health is at risk. There are no exceptions under the Alabama law for rape or incest. "Efforts like those in Alabama and Georgia are only the latest in a long history of efforts to criminalize women for simply existing, to punish us when we don't conform to their attempts to control us," the congresswoman said, calling the law unjust and dangerous. Photo courtesy: Getty Images/Alex Wong/Staff Editor's Note 5/28/19: This story has been edited to remove information from a 2016 storm that destroyed a Starbuck store in Kokomo, Indiana. Devastating tornadoes ripped through Ohio and Indiana into the early morning hours of Tuesday, leaving trails of wreckage behind them and thousands without power. According to The Guardian, several tornadoes ripped through Dayton, Ohio, Monday night and into early Tuesday morning, leveling entire communities. Reportedly the storms caused heavy debris especially in areas where two tornadoes followed each other closely and at one point even crossed paths. Highway crews were reportedly using snowplows to move debris from an interstate. The storms have left several thousand people without power as of Tuesday morning and a least a half a dozen communities suffered severe damage across eastern Indiana and central Ohio. Dayton Power said in a Tweet Tuesday morning that some 64,000 of their customers were without power. They did not know when the power would be restored, but they wrote that it would be a multi-day restoration effort. Dayton residents are also being encouraged to conserve water, as water plants and pump stations in the area are also without power. President Trump tweeted about the string of storms which spawned nearly 60 tornadoes across middle America last week noting that the federal government was prepared to provide aid to affected areas in Oklahoma. He wrote, Spoke with @GovStitt of Oklahoma last night from Japan because of the devastating tornadoes. Told him that @FEMA and the federal government are fully behind him and the great people of Oklahoma. Spoke with @GovStitt of Oklahoma last night from Japan because of the devastating tornadoes. Told him that @FEMA and the federal government are fully behind him and the great people of Oklahoma. May 28, 2019 President Trump has yet to speak out about the storms that rattled Ohio and Indiana. Miraculously, despite the massive damage, no fatalities have been reported as a result of the storms in Indiana and Ohio. Photo courtesy: Getty Images/Matthew Hatcher/Stringer City officials in Leander, Texas found themselves mired in controversy after the citys library announced that it would host a Drag Queen Story Hour event. Then, a church in the community announced they would rent a room at the library and host the event themselves. Open Cathedral, a relatively new church which meets in a local elementary school, will host the event on June 15thbecause We must never stop striving for safe spaces for our kids to be unique and loved no matter what. The churchs pastor, an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ, said he founded the church because he was tired of church sucking. On its website, the church claims to be open and affirming, saying that they want to be ever more open to and affirming of all people by embracing similarities and embracing differences in age, race, ethnicity, income level, ability, sexual orientation and gender expression. The city announced the library would not be hosting the event late last week. Mayor Troy Hill said, Our library, which is run by a company contracted by the City, chose to wade into social issues water without approval from City Staff. Since then it has led to predictable outrage and divineness that is the reason to avoid these issues. I would be curious if those favoring inclusiveness would feel the same had it been storytelling time about the life of Donald Trump, or how those who want it canceled would feel about canceling a story of guns in America. We have lost our ability to discuss with respect for opposing views. Drag Queen Story Hours have created controversy around the country in the last year. Schools and public libraries have come under fire for hosting the events. The Houston Public Library had to apologize recently for an event where one of the performers reading to the children was a registered sex offender who had sexually assaulted a 9-year-old. The Leander Public Library had been talking with a Drag King named Valeri Abrego about the event. Abrego told KVUE that its been blown out of proportion for no reason. Theyre just reading a book, theyre just getting dressed up and reading a book and its honestly no different than if a character from one of these books came out and somebody had dressed up as that character to read. Open Cathedral does not seem to believe that the event is any different than a character from a book reading the story. In their Facebook post for the event, they announce that a drag queen will read children books about how wonderful it is to be unique and special. The Leander Public Library, whose stated mission is to be a welcoming gathering space for the cultural and civic life of our growing community, one that fosters inclusiveness and provides useful resources to enrich formal and self-directed learning and leisure activities, said the city is undertaking a review of their programs and staff procedures, including those which come through outside sources. Open Cathedral is currently scheduled to host Drag Queen Story Hour on June 15th. Scott Slayton writes at One Degree to Another. Photo courtesy: Pixabay 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. Every village in the United Kingdom used to have a pub, a church, and a general store. Today, pubs (short for public houses) have become iconic, a popular destination for visitors to try drinks, traditional pub meals, and the cultural ambiance. But these local landmarks are closing quickly; only 39,000 are left in England, down a quarter from 20 or so years ago. There are now more church buildings than pubs, according to recent figures announced last month by the National Churches Trust. But the number of churches overall is falling too, just not as fast. The share of Christians in the UK is declining, as in America and other parts of the Western world. Total secularization isnt inevitably around the corner for at least two reasons. First, surveys show that many who say they have no religion still believe in God, pray, say they have a soul, or even read the Bible. Second, there is actually substantial growth among certain types of churches in the UK, all ... 1 Apostle Paul 'abhorred laziness in the pastorate,' says Pastor David Mathis Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The Apostle Paul abhorred lazy pastors, says Minnesota-based Pastor David Mathis, who's also the executive editor of the popular theology website Desiring God. Drawing from the New Testament writings of Paul of Tarsus, especially First and Second Timothy, Mathis, a pastor of Cities Church in Minneapolis-St. Paul, explained that Paul abhorred laziness in the pastorate in a piece titled The Plague of Lazy Pastors. Pastoral work, and good teaching in particular, is hard labor labor that is not only cursed and opposed, but specifically targeted by Satan, who loves to focus his attack on opposing lieutenants, wrote Mathis. If he can cut off the supply lines and defenses, he will soon overwhelm and defeat the ground troops. An important part of this hard work for pastors is preaching and teaching, which Mathis described as the central labor of pastoral ministry. A pastor who doesnt emotionally sweat and strain over his words is a pastor falling short of his calling. God means for pastors to be workers at their teaching, continued Mathis. Good teaching doesnt just spill over. It requires diligence and vigilance. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching (1 Timothy 4:16). While noting that good pastors are not lazy, Mathis warned that the hard work of pastors can sometimes come from a sinful inward disposition. All of us, pastors included, can work hard for the wrong reasons. For selfish ambition. For mere kudos and applause. From deep emotional insecurity, Mathis cautioned. The first word to every pastor, as to every Christian, is not, Work, but, He worked. It is finished. Mathis concluded by stressing that hard work can lead to a happier soul and make pastors a better vessel for the joy of the church. You will not find the happiest people in the world lying on couches. Pastors, lets show that world that one of the most reliable places to find them is in pulpits, concluded Mathis. Over the years, church leaders have examined what constitutes a sufficient workweek for pastors. Thom Rainer, CEO of Church Answers and former head of LifeWay Christian Resources, wrote in 2014 that there are many myths about the typical pastors work ethic. I will readily admit I've known some lazy pastors, but no more so than people in other vocations, wrote Rainer at the time, adding, there are many more workaholic pastors than lazy pastors. Sermon preparation, counseling, meetings, home visits, hospital visits, connecting with prospects, community activities, church social functions, and many more commitments don't fit into a 40-hour workweek. Rainer also wrote that he believed pastors have one of the most difficult and stressful jobs on Earth, pointing to the many personal obligations they take on when overseeing a church. it is an impossible job outside of the power and call of Christ. It is little wonder that too many pastors deal with lots of stress and depression, continued Rainer. Pastors and church staff are my heroes. They often have a thankless job with long and stressful workweeks. I want to be their encourager and prayer intercessor. I want to express my love for them openly and enthusiastically. Darryl Dash, pastor at Liberty Grace Church in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and a church planting expert, warned in a 2013 blog entry for The Christian Post that the pastorate is a place where lazy people can hide. I've met some lazy pastors, and they do need a kick in the posterior. And yes, we shouldn't expect more of others than we ourselves are ready to give, said Dash. However, Dash also believed pastors should not buy into a lifestyle that's driven by busyness and the lack of healthy rhythms. For instance, if nobody in the church is taking a weekly Sabbath, the answer isn't for the pastor to stop taking a Sabbath. Instead, the pastor should be model what it's like to pause, rest, and find refreshment one day a week, continued Dash. what we need not just pastors, but all of us is to discover how to work hard, but also how to love our families, abide in Christ, and live on mission in the everyday rhythms of life. Texas Baptist church to allow ministers to perform same-sex weddings Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Corrections appended After months of praying, leaders at the University Baptist Church in Waco, Texas, announced Sunday that they have decided to allow their ministers to perform same-sex weddings inside their church building even though it goes against the official policy of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. Four months ago, the leadership team stood before you and asked for your prayers and your voices regarding building use and pastor autonomy for same-sex marriages, church leaders noted in a letter to the congregation. We believed then, as we do now that UBC is a place that celebrates intellectual and theological diversity, but felt that our ambiguity on these polices had the potential to create harm for those in the LGBTQ community, the letter continued. Leaders then described the prayerful contemplation and other steps they took before making a decision that they are aware is not fully embraced by their congregation but is the best collective/theological conclusion. On the matter of building use for same-sex marriages, we have voted yes. On the matter of pastoral autonomy with regard to performing LGBTQ marriages, we have voted yes, the letter said. Though it is not our polity at UBC to take congregational votes, in January we said that it was our aim to come to our best collective/theological conclusions on these decisions, and so it is important to share that our votes were consistent with both congregational and pastoral feedback. It continued: We know that for some this announcement comes with great joy, and we sit with and among you today. We know that for some this announcement comes with loss, and we sit with and among you today. We know that for many this is a day of uncertainty or ambiguitytoo much, not enough, or some other singular or mixed emotional highs and lowsand we sit with and among you, too. The official position adopted by the Baptist General Convention of Texas on same-sex marriage in 2016, is that it is grounds for declaring a church outside the bounds of cooperation with the state convention. In February 2017 three churches Lake Shore Baptist in Waco, First Baptist in Austin and Wilshire Baptist in Dallas were declared outside of harmonious cooperation with the BGCT in line with that policy. According to Baptist Standard, University Baptist Pastor Josh Carney "recognized the policy University Baptist Church has adopted regarding same-sex marriage is contrary to the stated position of the BGCT, as well as Baylor University and Truett Theological Seminary." Truett Theological Seminarys Kyle Lake Center for Effective Preaching is named for a 1997 Truett Seminary graduate who died while serving as pastor of University Baptist Church. Joshua Minatrea, BGCT communications director, told the Baptist Standard that, the conventions executive leadership and elected officers will work together over the coming days to gather information and, if needed, refer the situation to the Executive Board for further consideration. Carney added, We are interested in maintaining our relationship with the BGCT and with Truett. We will continue to honor them and speak well of them. We will celebrate the good work they are doing, despite what is decided." Correction, May 28, 2019: A previous headline for this article stated University Baptist is "connected" to Baylor University. While Baylor's seminary has a center named after a former pastor of University Baptist, there is no official connection between Baylor and University Baptist. Correction, May 28, 2019: A previous version of this story attributed a quote from Joshua Minatrea to a University Baptist Pastor Josh Carney. It also incorrectly attributed a quote and paraphrase from Josh Carney, "that University Baptist Churchs decision is contrary to the stated position of the BGCT, as well as Baylor University and Truett Theological Seminary," to Minatrea. Southern Baptist Convention membership slipped below 15 million in 2018: report Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The Southern Baptist Convention experienced a decline in membership and worship attendance in 2018 but also an increase in financial giving, according to recently released numbers. SBC's newly released Annual Church Profile report noted that from 2017 to 2018, membership in the country's largest Protestant denomination went below the 15 million mark, declining by 192,000 people to about 14.8 million members. Weekly worship attendance also declined, going from approximately 5.32 million in 2017 to approximately 5.29 million in 2018. Attendance for small group and Sunday School also declined, from about 3.34 million in 2017 to 3.24 million in 2018. LifeWay Christian Resources compiled the ACP statistics with assistance from Baptist state conventions. Data for this years report came from 76 percent of SBC congregations responding to at least one of the report items. Nearly a quarter of SBC congregations did not respond at all. Part of the Annual Church Profile process is for associations and state conventions to connect with each congregation and to confirm they still exist and are cooperating together in ministry, said Scott McConnell, executive director of LifeWay Research, the Baptist Press reported. This year several states put extra effort into identifying and confirming cooperating churches, revealing the decrease in the number of congregations. Ronnie Floyd, president of the SBC Executive Committee, said on Thursday that the ACP report shows it's time to press reset spiritually and strategically in the Southern Baptist Convention. Prioritizing and elevating the advancement of the good news of Jesus Christ into every town, city and county in America, as well to every person across the world, must be recaptured by every church, stated Floyd, as reported by BP. People need Jesus and they need Jesus now. Our generation of Baptists must believe and determine now that we will do whatever it takes to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every person in the world and to make disciples of all the nations. As with other Protestant denominations in the United States, the SBC has experienced decline in its membership over the past several years. The SBC first reported this decline back in 2008, when it the ACP reported that membership numbers had decreased from 16.3 million members in 2006 to 16.26 million members in 2007. For now, Southern Baptists are a denomination in decline, said Ed Stetzer, at the time the director of LifeWay Research, in a 2008 blog entry. you cannot miss the fact that a dubious historical milestone has been reached and it needs to be noted in denominational and church offices across the country. Postcard from the perfect German layover Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Wiesbaden isnt the first destination one thinks of when planning a visit to Germany. Yet, Wiesbaden, a medium-sized city with a population of about 280,000, is a perfect destination for anyone wanting to experience a slice of everyday life in Germany. Some readers of this column will know the city because the U.S. Army has its European headquarters nearby. A little over a century ago there were numerous upscale hotels built exclusively for tourists lured here by its hot springs. Kaiser Wilhelm II even vacationed here. Then came World War I and everything changed. One of the few remaining traditional thermal spas is Kaiser Friedrich Therme. Just be warned that swimming attire is prohibited. In other words, you are expected to be fully nude. Other reminders of Belle Epoque-era Wiesbaden are everywhere. The architecture and overall cityscape struck me as more Parisian and less German. Think wide streets with townhomes and facades that span several styles, though everything in the city center blends together. Intermixed are modern buildings, a legacy of postwar German rebuilding. Then there are the numerous squares, which reflect the urban planning of the 19th century when Wiesbaden served as the capital of the Duchy of Nassau, an independent country from 1806 until its annexation by Prussia in 1866. (Germany, as we know it today, consisted of numerous kingdoms, duchies and principalities until its unification in 1871.) The Nassau dynasty was responsible for transforming Wiesbaden from a provincial backwater. They built or patronized the major civic, cultural and religious landmarks: The grand Market Church (Marktkirche) that rivals some cathedrals in size, the museum and palaces, including the baroque Biebrich Palace on the northern bank of the Rhine River. If you go Wiesbaden is easily reached by train from Frankfurts airport. Otherwise, the drive by car is less than 20 miles. This makes it perfect for a two-night layover. Plan your visit around a Wednesday or Saturday, when the twice-weekly farmers market is held behind the Market Church and New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus). I stayed at the Mercure Hotel Wiesbaden City, which, as its name suggests, is within walking distance of almost everything to see and do. Spires and Crosses, a travel column exclusive to The Christian Post, is published every week. Follow @dennislennox on Twitter and Instagram. Anglican vicar resigns amid church school's plan to hide 8-y-o student's trans identity from parents Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment An Anglican vicar in England has resigned from his position after a dispute with his bishop over the handling of an 8-year-old student's gender change, citing concerns that a transgender advocacy group misled school staff. According to the Daily Mail on Sunday, the Rev. John Parker, a governor at a Church of England school in Essex village, where he served as a vicar for 14 years, resigned in protest after the school "silenced" him when he voiced concerns about parents and students being kept in the dark about their child desiring to change genders. He supported the 8-year-old student's desire to identify as the opposite gender but took issue with the school's refusal to keep parents apprised. The Daily Mail did not name the school citing privacy concerns. Parker, 49, reportedly also feared that Mermaids, a transgender advocacy group that had been invited to advise the school, had misled the governors. He believes, as he wrote in his resignation letter, that children are being "sacrificed on the altar of trans ideology" even in Church schools. The vicar told the Daily Mail: "I was basically told by my bishop that if I wished to faithfully follow the teachings of the Bible then I was no longer welcome in the Church. It felt very much like I was being silenced by the Church and the school." Parker asked if the child had seen a psychologist or a medical professional to make sure his desire to live as the opposite sex was genuine or possibly pushed by the parents. Those inquiries were dismissed as were his questions about "pastoral provisions" made for Christian parents and children who might be confused about what was happening at school. The head teacher to whom he presented his concerns told him that they were simply his "personal views" and that she was legally bound by the Equality Act to not inform the student's parents about the gender-transition. "After the head told us about the plan to allow the pupil to transition, the school suddenly turned into a place where you did not even have the freedom to question things. I felt it was no longer a Christian place of grace and truth it was a place of oppression," Parker said. The vicar, who is a scientist by training, was also concerned about a two-hour presentation a Mermaids trainer gave at the school which addressed a wide range of topics. This trainer asserted that it is against the law to deny anyone the use restrooms or changing rooms for the gender with which they identify and that using incorrect pronouns for a trans-identifying child constitutes a "hate crime." "The presentation was so full of factual inaccuracies," Parker said. "I am an Oxford biologist by background so I was gobsmacked by what was being said from a biological perspective. When he tried to ask questions at the end of the presentation about what he considered false claims about both the law and science, he was shut down. The Mermaids trainer reportedly replied: 'My job is to deliver training. I have done that. I don't have to listen [to objections]." Andrea Williams, of the Christian Legal Centre, said: "This is not an isolated case and we are going to see more like it if nothing is done." 'Parents have a right to know if and when this ideological movement is in their schools and being taught as fact." "I believe a real threat is posed to schools from organizations such as Mermaids. They implement a new ideological tyranny and any disagreement is at best silenced, and at worst, punished." Mermaids is not only influential in English schools but appear to have great sway over law enforcement. As The Christian Post reported in March of 2018, police in England interrogated a stay-at-home mom for tweeting her disapproval of sex reassignment surgery for a minor, the child of the head of Mermaids, Susie Green. This interrogation was reportedly part of a human rights "test" case. Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull, who also goes by the name Posie Parker, had tweeted criticisms spanning from October 2016 to August 2017 in reference to Green taking her then teenage male child to Thailand to have his genitals amputated, calling it "castration." A police officer contacted her twice and arranged a sit-down interview with her, mentioning that if she did not attend she would be considered "wanted." When she inquired what that meant, he responded that should she attempt to leave the country she would be arrested, and that if she happened to be pulled over while driving she would be arrested. "As far as the transgender ideology stretches I believe it is one of complete submission. Those that even raise questions are silenced with threats and accusations of bigotry," Keen-Minshull told CP at the time. Ark Encounter sues insurance company for refusing to cover $1 million in heavy rain damage Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The Young Earth creationism museum Ark Encounter in Kentucky filed a lawsuit against an insurance company for refusing to cover $1 million in repairs that were needed following damage caused by heavy rainfall. Filed last week in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Northern Division at Covington, the suit is leveled against the Allied World Assurance Company. According to the suit, Allied World refused to cover the $1 million cost in road repairs that had to be done in response to about two years of heavy rainfall that damaged the Ark Encounter property. Defendants continue to contend that Plaintiffs loss is not covered because the physical damage was caused by faulty design or workmanship, even though the Defendants have already conceded that the policy language provides coverage for damage resulting from faulty design or workmanship, stated the lawsuit in part. By refusing to pay all but a very small proportion of Plaintiffs covered claim, the Defendants have failed to meet their Policy obligations and failed to handle Plaintiffs claim properly and in good faith, causing Plaintiffs to incur significant additional loss and expense. The lawsuit specifically accuses Allied World of breach of contract, acting in bad faith, and being in violation of the Kentucky Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Act. Ark Encounter claims that Allied World violated the Act by, among other things, misrepresenting pertinent insurance policy provisions relating to the coverages at issue, refusing to pay claims without conducting a reasonable investigation based upon all available information, compelling Plaintiffs to institute litigation to recover the amounts due under the policy, and failing to settle a claim within 30 days without reasonable foundation for doing so. As a direct and proximate cause of Defendants violations of the Kentucky Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Act, Plaintiffs have and will continue to suffer substantial damages, in an amount believed to be in excess of $1,000,000, continued the suit. At all times relevant hereto, Defendants acted with oppression, fraud, and malice toward the Plaintiffs, entitling Plaintiffs to an award of punitive damages. The Ark Encounter was opened in July 2016, a project of the Young Earth creationism apologetics group Answers in Genesis that features a life-sized replica of Noahs Ark, as described in the Bible book of Genesis. Initially, news sources including The Associated Press reported that the replica of Noahs Ark at the Ark Encounter site had been damaged by flooding. However, the AP issued a correction on May 25 saying they "reported erroneously that flooding caused the damage. The damage was caused by heavy rains over a period of two years." Answers in Genesis also released a statement last Friday clarifying that the museums Ark was unharmed by the rains. The Ark itself does not sit next to the damaged areas. The Ark was built on bedrock and was never in jeopardy, the group stated. We are highly confident of the merits of our case as we seek a fair resolution with the insurance companies. How Drug Smuggler Went From Trafficking Heroin to Launching a Secret Church in Asia Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A former smuggler involved in the international drug trade impacting Central Asia has opened up about how he went from trafficking illicit drugs like heroin to secretly selling Christian literature in hostile nations. The global persecution watchdog Open Doors USA recently highlighted the testimony of a man referred to only as Viktor. Viktor, like many of his peers, left home in his 20s to seek a living for himself. However, the way in which Viktor found a way to make a living wasn't exactly legal. The career path that Viktor chose was drug smuggling, a gig that may have helped him pay the bills but also presented a substantial risk of imprisonment. During his time as a drug smuggler, Viktor was placed in charge of an operation where drugs were smuggled from Tajikistan into his own state in Central Asia. Since Viktor showed talent for successfully trafficking drugs, he was then given the chance to expand his operation into three countries by smuggling drugs over the Afghanistan border. Despite Viktor's success, it wouldn't last forever. Viktor was arrested and jailed in 1996 when he was caught with nearly nine pounds of heroine. In jail, Viktor began to suffer from mental anguish as his mind began to deteriorate and he became suicidal. Viktor recalled that at the time, he didn't know how long he would have to sit in jail. Eventually, he just did not want to live anymore. According to Viktor, things began to turn around when one of his cellmates received the Gospel of John in a care package from his mother. The cellmate offered the Scripture to Viktor. Although Viktor accepted the gift, it took him 10 days to open the book. When he finally did, he was a bit confused by some of the Christian lingo. "Words like 'the Word was first and the Word was God' made no sense to me," Viktor told Open Doors. "What did it mean? I put it away and stopped reading." As Viktor continued to suffer from insomnia night after night, he gravitated towards the Gospel once again. This time, Viktor's attention was grabbed by the prospect that even he, with all the crimes that he has committed, could receive eternal life through Christ. "Thinking about it, I really desired eternal life, even more than I desired to be released from jail," Viktor said, adding that he began to feel God's presence. Viktor recalled crying out to Jesus for eternal life even though he wasn't quite yet sure if Christ really existed. "I continued reading in the Bible alone in my cell with no Christians around," Viktor was quoted as saying. "It was just me and the book." Viktor noticed a change in himself as he began to turn away drug packages that were smuggled to him in jail. "I made the decision to choose life and sent the drugs back," he stated. Even though Viktor's mindset was changing, he said he was later diagnosed with some sort of disease. He says that doctors only expected him to live another year-and-a-half. Despite the terrible news, Viktor displayed a sense of joy in the fact that he knew he would be going to Heaven. Viktor's joy seemed to confuse some of the other prisoners and intrigued their interest as to what was bringing him this joy. As the disease never got worse, Viktor would launch a church ministry inside the prison. Viktor and others would gather in groups for musical worship and prayer and Viktor would later be allowed by prison administrators to preach over the prison loudspeaker. After his release from prison, Viktor attended a Bible college and also began working with drug addicts at a rehabilitation center. Now, Viktor pastors a home church movement in his own community in Central Asia. Part of the ministry is funded by Viktor's sales of salt and grain. Being in a area where Bibles and Christian literature is banned, Viktor also secretly sells evangelism materials and Christian literature out of his barn. "We have so many secret things here. But we operate wisely and only let trusted people in our yard," Viktor said. "The customers come to our barn and no farther. When people come for books, we close the gate or put a car in front of it. Neighbors cannot see what we are doing. And there is no reason to come and check. The only visible activity is our animal food we sell." The members of Viktor's church also gather secretly to avoid government detection. Often, Viktor and members of his church will socialize with people in a nearby village and identify those who are seeking the truth about Christ. The church member will then go to those peoples' homes and preach to them. "If a lady asks about baptism, for instance, then we suggest going to her home to drink tea and talk a little further," Viktor explained. "We use any opportunity to enter their homes to share the gospel." Viktor's ministry is also sustained with the help of Open Doors, which operates in over 60 countries around the world to assist persecuted Christian communities. Since the breakup of the Soviet Union, both drug trafficking and drug use throughout the region have seen a "tremendous increase," according to an analysis published last March by George Washington University research professor Sebastien Peyrouse. Earlier this year, a Canadian man who was once living on the street and addicted to sniffing glue told The Christian Post about how his life transformed when he was sentenced to prison for hijacking a bus and began reading the Bible. Indiana megachurch opens new campuses inside correctional, rehab facilities At least 15 give their lives to Christ, several reaffirm their Christian faith Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment An Indiana megachurch is impacting the lives of incarcerated and troubled individuals through volunteer-run microsite campuses established this year inside a local jail, a rehabilitation center, and a local work-release facility. At least 15 people have come to Christ since the multicampus, nondenominational Emmanuel Church launched campuses in January at Johnson County Jail, Johnson County Community Corrections work-release center and the Theodora House, a Volunteers of America womens recovery center near downtown Indianapolis. Rachel Long, the executive pastor of multisites and families and a former developmental therapist, told The Christian Post that Emmanuel Church is also planning to soon launch another microsite campus at Brandon Hall, another Volunteers of America transitional facility in Indianapolis. The way that we view it is that they can't come to Christ inside these dark places without someone having the courage to go in, Long said. Personally, it was very hard for me to go in. But what you learn is that these are beings that reflect God and that they were created in His image just the same way that we are. And you start to have a connection with them in a way that allows you to minister to them. According to Long, the microsites are different from the average prison ministry in the sense that they try to bring the Emmanuel experience into the microsite centers. As part of that experience, the church offers free coffee and breakfast at its microsite services. At all the microsite facilities except the Johnson County Jail, volunteers from the churchs impact team livestream services as they happen at Emmanuel Churchs Greenwood campus. Following the service, attendees engage in a group discussion led by volunteers to unpack what was said in the sermons given by Pastor Danny Anderson. At the Johnson County Community Corrections work-release facility, where both men and women are held, two services are held on Sundays: a 9 a.m. service for women and an 11 a.m. service for men. At Johnson County Jail, however, the services are held on Wednesdays and the prison does not allow the church to stream its services. So we actually have volunteers that go in and re-preach Pastor Dannys sermon, Long explained, adding that there is usually time for about a 15-minute discussion on the sermon before the service ends. The church also gives inmates a Bible study printed in a church bulletin that they are allowed to take with them back to their pods to ruminate on each week. The newest of the Emmanuel Church microsites is the Theodora House, which opened in April. The facility houses women finishing out their incarceration on one side and on the other, houses women recovering from an addiction and their children. The thing that is most inspiring to me as a pastor is each one of those [microsites] is completely run by our impact team, Long said. The impact team consists of about 25 church volunteers who go through training once per month on Impact Night to be equipped to go into the microsites to share the Gospel. Long said the goal is not only to share the Good News with the people at these centers but also to provide them with a church community they know they will be welcomed at once they are released. County jail in Indiana is different than federal or state prison. There arent a lot of rehabilitation factors to it, explained Long. But we know that if we can get them to come to an Emmanuel campus afterward, we know that we can get them connected in addiction recovery, small groups and people who will walk with them as they either come to Christ or grow in Christ through the heart transformation. The ministry is already having a noticeable impact on those who attend the microsite services even though they are only a few months old. Long said that while 15 attendees of the microsites have given their lives to Christ for the first time, she said countless others have rededicated their lives to Christ. About 35 inmates on an average Wednesday attend the Johnson County Jail service, while 25 women on average attend services at the Theodora House and an average of 25 people attend services at the Johnson County work-release facility each week, according to Long. What we have seen is people who have had victory in Christ, through being incarcerated, and are coming now and wanting to serve, Long told CP. We have a young lady who turned herself in to the [Department of Child Services] and [stayed at the] Theodora House. She is a single mom and she works at UPS and she takes care of her girls. And she also has volunteered [to serve at the] microsites. Long stressed that as more people are hearing about the work Emmanuel Church is doing through its microsites, the church is increasingly getting requests to set up microsites in other locations. We just kept walking through every door that God opened and said yes to what He put in front of us. And that's really is how it happened, Long said. We started with an idea for a year-end giving project and it's morphed into something that we never could have expected that it would be. Emmanuel Church also runs a fourth microsite campus located on the campus of Purdue University that targets college students. However, that microsite campus is dormant for summer break, Long said. More persecution in India? 4 things to know about Modi's win Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Christians and those of other minority faiths in India are worried that they will face increased persecution following the landslide victory of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu nationalist party. Attacks against religious minorities had already risen in the Hindu majority nation under Modi since 2014. But there is greater fear after the Bharatiya Janata Party won more control of the government last week. Here are four things you need to know about the election in India and its ramifications. 1. The BJP won more seats than any other party The BJP won 303 of the 542 seats in the Lok Sabha, or the lower house of Indias parliament. Thats up from the 282 seats the right-wing party won in 2014. When adding the seats won by BJPs allies (the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance), Modi has the support of dozens more over the next five years. With majority power in parliament, Modi could wipe out religious freedom, which is currently protected in the countrys constitution, the Federation of Indian American Christian Organizations warned. While we are concerned for the future of the church in India we are also concerned about the very survival of the Constitution of the Republic that guarantees equality and freedom of religion, expression and association to every citizen, FIACONA said in a statement. Under a new Hindu Constitution which Modi and his party wants to implement, all these freedoms we take for granted may not exist. The BJP and Mr. Modi needed a two third majority in the Parliament in their scheme to replace the Constitution. They do have that strength in the Parliament now. Other requirements to change the Constitution are already in place. 2. Modis rise Some have referred to Modi as the Donald Trump of India for his nationalism namely in protecting the interests of the Hindu majority. Modi comes from a low-caste family who sold tea. He later joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, a Hindu nationalist group, and eventually became a leader. His story of working his way up has appealed to many in India. He was the chief minister of Gujarat state when dozens of Hindus were killed in a train that caught fire in 2002. The incident sparked riots as Hindu leaders accused Muslims of the fire. More than 1,000 people, mostly Muslims, were killed in the riots. Modi was accused of doing little to stop the rioters. Since then, he has gained popularity among the Hindu majority. Modis re-election has been viewed as part of a worldwide trend of the rise of populist and nationalist right-wing governments. And that has many worried. I know there are populist regimes all over the world. But when the world's largest democracy tries to follow that model, it ruins its secular character that we've all been saying that if Mr. Modi comes to power, it will be an attack on India's soul, Rana Ayyub, a journalist based in Mumbai, India, told NPR. India cannot afford to go the populist, strong-man way. 3. How religious minorities have fared under Modi until now Since Modi was first elected as prime minister, Indias rank as one of the worst persecutors of Christians in the world went up from No. 28 in 2014 to No. 10 this year. Since 2014, Hindu extremists have actively promoted hate toward its Christian and Muslim minorities which has led to a tragic escalation of violence, said David Curry, CEO of Open Doors USA. So the results of this election which keeps the same people in power is an absolute tragedy. Christians in this region already routinely experience harassment and discrimination in the form of social ostracism, property destruction, hate speech and condemnation of their religious activities. We need the international community to stand up and do more. The latest report by the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom revealed that religious freedom conditions in India continued a downward trend in 2018. Increased attacks have occurred with the growth of exclusionary extremist narratives including, at times, the governments allowance and encouragement of mob violence against religious minorities that have facilitated an egregious and ongoing campaign of violence, intimidation, and harassment against non-Hindu and lower-caste Hindu minorities." Specific attacks include Hindu lynch mobs, which have perpetrated more than 100 attacks since 2015, resulting in 44 deaths, according to USCIRF. Cows are considered sacred to Hindus and many Muslims have been targeted by mobs for cow slaughter or eating beef. USCIRF noted that Modi seldom made statements decrying mob violence, and certain members of his political party have affiliations with Hindu extremist groups and used inflammatory language about religious minorities publicly. Victims of large-scale attacks in recent years have not been granted justice, and reports of new crimes committed against religious minorities were not adequately accounted for or prosecuted. U.S. Congress members and church leaders have made several appeals to Modi over the last few years to call for more protection of religious minorities. 4. How Christians are reacting to the election While many Christians have expressed disappointment in the election results, some are not surprised. We are not happy or sad, said an Indian church partner of Open Doors USA. We trust the Lord is in control and He will help us through it all. Some Christians are discouraged, yes, but they have also been preparing for this to happen. It is also true that neither Congress nor other parties work for the welfare of Christians. We would have faced opposition anyhow. So we instead prepare ourselves to face what God has prepared for us. Another church leader, Pastor Samuel, told Open Doors that more persecution is possible. It is possible that the Indian laws and even clauses in the constitution will be altered in this tenure, giving the government more tools to persecute minorities, he said. Pastor Samuel called on Christians around the world to pray for them. I'm a very wealthy man, says Kenneth Copeland; he couldnt help but buy jet from Tyler Perry Prosperity preacher Kenneth Copeland says ministry brought 122 million people to Jesus Christ Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Texas-based prosperity preacher Kenneth Copeland of Kenneth Copeland Ministries, who some reports estimate has a net worth upward of $300 million, recently declared himself a very wealthy man, but said his wealth doesnt come from the offerings of his supporters alone. Im a very wealthy man, Copeland told reporter Lisa Guerrero from "Inside Edition" who questioned him over his lavish lifestyle and his refusal to travel on commercial airplanes because he doesnt want to contend with "demons." My wealth doesnt come from offerings alone, he said, as he admitted to selling things like books and DVDs. He then introduced a source of income that was not widely known. I have a lot of natural gas on our property. Didnt know that did you, baby, he said to the reporter. Isnt that wonderful? He also noted that he hasnt been keeping all his wealth to himself. Last year alone, he said, his ministry invested about $20 to $25 million in the poor. Cant do that being broke, said Copeland, who also boasted that his ministry has brought over 122 million people to the Lord Jesus Christ thanks to their wealth. It takes a lot of money to do what we do. We have brought over 122 million people to the Lord Jesus Christ, he said. Just over a year ago, Copeland's ministry made headlines when they announced the acquisition of a Gulfstream V jet "debt free" which hit the market with a $36 million price tag in 1998. It was unclear at the time how much Copeland's ministry paid for the jet which was being sold by some vendors for a minimum of just under $6 million. While defending his use of private jets, Copeland revealed that he now has three of them and he purchased his latest acquisition from media mogul Tyler Perry at a price he could not refuse. .Without the airplane that we have that I bought from Tyler Perry [I could not do the work I do]. And I didnt pay anywhere near [the true value], Tyler is one of the greatest guys. He made that airplane so cheap for me I couldnt help but buy it, Copeland said. When asked how much he actually paid for the jet, Copeland would not say but explained that private jets are a vital part of his ministry. He further asserted that if he didn't fly in private jets he would have to stop doing more than half the work in his ministry. The main reason is because of the need. If I flew commercial Id have to stop 65 percent of what Im doing. Thats really the main reason, he said. Last May, I was scheduled for Lagos, Nigeria. Thats a long ways. I had a week off and I was scheduled for Peru. And I prayed about it and I thought, Im not missing that dedication in Jerusalem. And heres what happened. We flew in 21 days, 70 hours, 40,000 miles, touched five continents and preached face-to-face, personally with 125,000 people, he said. Copeland, who also admitted to using his ministry's jets to fly to his vacation homes, challenged a running narrative that he believes people who travel on commercial flights are demons. No, I do not, and dont you ever say I did, he said intensely while wagging his finger at the reporter. We wrestle not with flesh and blood but principalities and powers. Its a biblical thing. Its a spiritual thing. It doesnt have anything to do with people. I love people. Jesus loves people. But people get pushed in alcohol. Do you think thats a good place for a preacher to be and prepare to go preach to a lot of people when somebody in there is dragging some woman down an aisle by her hair? It made me so mad to see that on television I wanted to punch the guy out myself. I cant be doing that while Im getting ready to preach, he said. Copeland, who said he is a commercial pilot who flew for his mentor, Oral Roberts, added that people who think pastors shouldnt be living in luxury are misguided. Its a misunderstanding of the Bible. If you go into the old covenant, do you think that the Jewish people believe that you should be broke? They believe in wealth, he said. The blessing of Abraham. Abraham was extremely wealthy and he had a covenant with God. Its not the Jewish blessing, its the Abrahamic blessing. I get excited talking about it cause I love it and I started out deep in debt with nothing, he said. I had to learn this from the Bible and from my spiritual mentor Oral Roberts. And I learned it from him, working with him and then we became he was a close friend until he died. He took the same heat for believing God would prosper you that Ive taken over the years, he said. Abraham was a very, very wealthy man. Galatians 3. If you belong to Christ, then are you Abrahams seed and heirs according to his promise? And his promise was great wealth, declared Copeland. The reporter, who said both her grandfathers were humble preachers, shot back with Matthew 19:24 which says: And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. Copeland agreed, but noted: but He said, all things are possible with God. And He said, if you studied the Greek behind that, its trusting in wealth. Recovering from Hybels scandal, Willow Creek forms senior pastor search committee Willow Creek begins search for new senior pastor after Bill Hybels scandal Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Willow Creek Community Church announced that they are setting up a search committee for a new senior pastor, with the hope that the position will be filled by the end of the year. The church's elder board explained in an update posted last Friday, that following much prayer and consideration, they have created a Senior Pastor Search Committee comprised of five elders. In addition, the committee is partnering with a pastoral search firm to facilitate the process. Our initial estimate is that the search process will take approximately six months, with a goal to conclude by year-end 2019, stated the elder board. We ask for your continued prayers in the coming months as we discern the next steps for church leadership. The elders also commended Pastor Steve Gillen, who previous served as pastor of Willow Creeks North Shore Campus, for his service as acting senior pastor, noting that he has agreed to remain in the leadership position during the committee's search. We trust God to guide and lead this process, and we recognize that there will be many questions in the coming days and months. We value the input of staff and congregants across all campuses and are already planning ways for you to participate in this process, added the elders. In 2018, the Chicago Tribune published an investigative piece documenting allegations of sexual misconduct against Willow Creek Senior Pastor and founder Bill Hybels. The Tribune story presented various allegations, including suggestive comments, extended hugs, an unwanted kiss, and invitations to some of the women to hotel rooms. Hybels, who served as head of Willow Creek for over four decades and oversaw the church as it grew into a multisite megachurch, denied the accusations. In April 2018, weeks after the Tribune ran its story, Hybels announced that he was resigning as senior pastor, leaving the position months before he previously intended to retire. This decision was mine and mine alone, but after much discussion, my decision earned the unanimous support of the elders and the executive team," Hybels said in a statement last year. "[I]t has been increasingly clear to us that they [Willow Creek ministries] can't flourish when the valuable time and energy of their leaders are divided. The leaders of both our church and the [Willow Creek Association] need the freedom to get on with the task of carrying out the missions God has given them." In late February, an investigation by the Independent Advisory Group released a report concluding that the allegations against Hybels were credible and criticized his leadership style. Hybels verbally and emotionally intimidated both male and female employees. Over multiple decades, the Willow Creek Community Church boards were unable to provide effective oversight of Bill Hybels, noted the report. Supreme Court Justice Thomas raises concerns over abortion's 'potential for eugenic manipulation' Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas expressed concern about abortion having the potential for eugenic manipulation in a concurring opinion. In an unsigned opinion, the Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal in the case of Box v. Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky Inc., upholding a lower court's decision that concluded that an Indiana law banning abortions on the basis of race, sex, and disability was unconstitutional. Thomas agreed with the unanimous decision to not take up the appeal, and said he believed that the court will soon need to confront the constitutionality of laws like Indianas because of the potential for abortion to become a tool of eugenic manipulation. This case highlights the fact that abortion is an act rife with the potential for eugenic manipulation. From the beginning, birth control and abortion were promoted as means of effectuating eugenics, wrote Thomas. Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger was particularly open about the fact that birth control could be used for eugenic purposes. These arguments about the eugenic potential for birth control apply with even greater force to abortion, which can be used to target specific children with unwanted characteristics. Thomas went on to also cite former Planned Parenthood President Alan Guttmacher, who after World War II endorsed abortion for eugenic reasons and promoted it as a means of controlling the population and improving its quality. In 1959, for example, Guttmacher explicitly endorsed eugenic reasons for abortion. A. Guttmacher, Babies by Choice or by Chance 186188 (1959). He explained that the quality of the parents must be taken into account, including [f]eeblemindedness, and believed that it should be permissible to abort any pregnancy . . . in which there is a strong probability of an abnormal or malformed infant, continued Thomas. Thomas warned that with todays prenatal screening tests and other technologies, abortion can easily be used to eliminate children with unwanted characteristics. In Iceland, the abortion rate for children diagnosed with Down syndrome in utero approaches 100%, he wrote. Other European countries have similarly high rates, and the rate in the United States is approximately two-thirds. In Asia, widespread sex-selective abortions have led to as many as 160 million missing womenmore than the entire female population of the United States. In 2016, then Indiana Gov. Mike Pence signed a bill into law that banned abortions on the basis of race, ancestry, gender, or disability. "I believe that a society can be judged by how it deals with its most vulnerable the aged, the infirm, the disabled and the unborn," said Pence in a statement at the time. By enacting this legislation, we take an important step in protecting the unborn, while still providing an exception for the life of the mother. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit struck down the ban and also a measure requiring the proper burial of fetal remains. While the Supreme Court allowed the ruling against the ban to remain, it reversed the ruling against the fetal burial law, explaining in the unanimous decision that the high court had already upheld a similar law. This court has already acknowledged that a state has a legitimate interest in proper disposal of fetal remains, read the unsigned opinion, referencing Akron v. Akron Center for Reproductive Health, Inc. The Seventh Circuit clearly erred in failing to recognize that interest as a permissible basis for Indianas disposition law. Trump admin. proposes to remove 'gender identity' from Obamacare Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services proposed on Friday to reverse an Obamacare mandate that bars discrimination against transgender patients. When Congress prohibited sex discrimination, it did so according to the plain meaning of the term, and we are making our regulations conform, Roger Severino, director of the Office for Civil Rights, said in a statement. The American people want vigorous protection of civil rights and faithfulness to the text of the laws passed by their representatives. The HHS had issued a new rule in 2016 with regard to Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in certain health programs and activities by extending the definition of sex to include gender identity and termination of a pregnancy. A federal court issued an injunction against the new rule in January 2017 after several states and healthcare entities filed lawsuits, arguing that the mandate would force faith-based providers to perform sex change surgeries and other services that violate their beliefs. While the injunction is still in effect today, the Trump administration is moving to roll back the 2016 provision. Alliance Defending Freedom Legal Counsel Kellie Fiedorek praised the Trump administration for going back to the plain meaning of the word sex. Congress has consistently used the word sex in laws like Title VII, Title IX, and the Affordable Care Act to mean a persons biological sex as male or female, Fiedorek said. Replacing the objective concept of sex with subjective gender identity, as some courts and the prior administrative have tried to do, has far-reaching consequences, including for womens sports, school locker rooms, and homeless womens shelters. Confirming the clear meaning of sex as grounded in human biology ensures that women will continue to have equal opportunities in sports, school, and work, and it protects the privacy rights of all Americans. In 2018, the HHS unveiled the Conscience and Religious Freedom Division meant to defend the conscience rights of medical professionals who may hold moral or religious objections to things like abortions or gender reassignment surgery. The HHS proposal comes days after the Department of Housing and Urban Development released a proposal that some argue would roll back an Obama-era policy barring discrimination against transgender persons at homeless shelters. HUDs proposed rule permits shelters that receive HUD funding to consider a range of factors in making such determinations, including privacy, safety, practical concerns, religious beliefs, any relevant considerations under civil rights and nondiscrimination authorities, the individuals sex as reflected in official government documents, as well as the gender which a person identifies with. While maintaining that the HUD is committed to protecting every persons right to access its programs without discrimination, HUD Secretary Ben Carson said, Our intention is to stop treating sex and self-identified gender as the same because I believe Washington shouldnt be telling the rest of America how to determine whether someone is a man or a woman," as reported by The Hill. In March 2018, Carson said his agency does not want to trample on the privacy rights of homeless persons and that they are taking a cautious approach in implementing protections for transgender people. He noted that some women have said that they are uncomfortable sharing showers and other private areas with members of the opposite biological sex. Father of Tennessee church shooter said he begged police to take guns, urged son to pray demons away Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Vanansio Samson, the father of 27-year-old Emanuel Kidega Samson who fatally shot a beloved mother and wounded six others at Burnette Chapel Church of Christ in Antioch, Tennessee, in 2017, said he begged police to take his sons guns before the tragedy. He also said he tried convincing his only child to use the Bible and prayer to shoo demons that terrorized him at night as he battled mental illness. I begged the Murfreesboro Police to take away guns from him because Im scared. Emanuel love people. Emanuel can only hurt himself. Emanuel can barely kill even a chicken. I told the police to help me take his guns away. They said no, that is his civil right and they cannot do it, Vanansio explained about one rainy day in June 2017 when Emanuel sent him a suicidal text. He was so sure his son was already dead, Vanansio started crying. I was definitely crying and I went and reported it to the Murfreesboro Police Department, he said. The police would later locate Emanuel alive and told his father that his son was well. Vanansio, however, said he knew he wasnt. It was almost three months later on Sunday, Sept. 24, 2017, when police say Emanuel, who worked as a security guard at the time, arrived at Burnette Chapel Church of Christ at 10:55 a.m. in a blue SUV wearing a neoprene half face mask. Armed with a handgun, Emanuel "fired upon the church building" with his vehicle still running in the parking lot where he shot church member Melanie Crow Smith, 39, and left her for dead. He then went on to shoot several other people inside the church building. On the third day of Emanuels trial this week, Vanansio testified that his son had been struggling with bipolar disorder and depression before the shooting and if only authorities had helped him when he asked, perhaps the tragedy could have been avoided. If metro had detained him and taken him for evaluation that time, because I believe that sickness was out there, we would have not been sitting here today. Or this tragedy would have not happened. Because I tried to take the guns away from him. Could not, he said. He explained that a few months while he was out of the country in early 2017, Emanuel went through a dark period and sent him suicidal messages then too. Emanuel confided in him that he was seeing visions of black and white that kept him from sleeping at night. He urged his son at that time to try the Bible. We believe where I came from in South Sudan, you have some nightmare, dream, you always take a Bible and pray at night before you go to bed and put it under the pillow. No nightmare will come back to you at night when youre sleeping, Vanansio said. I send him message that he need to have faith. Take a Bible, put under your pillow and pray to God and those demons will go away. And I said, he need to be strong. Hes my only son, I dont have any other kid and losing him means I will also lose my life. So I keep calming him down until I came back in March of 2017, he added. Vanansio explained how he had fled war torn South Sudan with Emanuel and his now ex-wife, when Emanuel was only 3 and lived for more than four years in a refugee camp in Egypt before coming to the United States as Christian refugees. He and his ex-wife, who watched her mother and brother being burned alive before fleeing South Sudan, divorced a year after they arrived. When asked to describe his sons behavior around or near the time of the shooting, Vanansio said Emanuel was talking more than usual and had become forgetful. When I tried to tell him something he takes it in a rough way. He wasnt understanding. I had to calm him down and say take it easy. This is how we need to do things, he said. He explained that his son was also frustrated about school because he wasnt qualified to receive full tuition help. He had to come up with $2,000 to finish up his college degree. I told him, I am back, I am here, I can help you with those tuition thing. Stay focused, do your schoolwork and the little work youre doing and as soon as I get a place to live, because I was still living with my friend then, we can stay together. You dont have to worry paying for anything, Vanansio explained. Maya Hill, the mother of Samson's daughter, also testified that on the day of the shooting Emanuel left her what she thought was a suicidal note. Im terribly sorry for not living up to your expectation my queen, its no secret I never deserved you, she read in part from the note. Samson also told jurors he remembers shooting himself but no one else. "Do you remember shooting Melanie Crow," defense attorney Jennifer Thompson asked. "I do not," Emanuel replied. "Do you remember shooting Pastor Joey Spann," Thompson asked. "I do not," Emanuel said. Samson further noted that he didn't remember putting on a mask, tactical vest or writing a note referencing Charleston church shooter Dylann Roof, News Channel 5 reported. In the weeks leading up to the shooting, he said he was having hallucinations and not feeling like himself. "What I remember thinking and feeling in those days or that day in particular is waking up and wanting to end my life. I was extremely depressed and I felt kind of numb," he said. Prosecutors argued that Emanuel was conveniently choosing the details he recalled. In a transcript of calls from October 2017 between Emanuel and his then girlfriend, he said he heard the shooting victims saying "some funny (expletive)" when he was on the floor of Burnette Chapel Church of Christ after he was shot during a tussle with a churchgoer. "When I put the two bullets in my chest and laid down and I was on the floor and I could hear what everyone was saying, and some people were saying some funny (expletive), bruh and, I was like, if Maya were here listening to y'all's whack (expletive), bruh," Emanuel said in one call. Parents can fight graphic sex ed by 'linking arms with people of other faiths:' activists Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment WASHINGTON Activists are urging pastors and parents upset by explicit content in sex ed curriculum used in public schools to be relentless in pushing back while building rapport with school officials. At a breakout session hosted by Cathy Ruse of the Family Research Council during the Watchmen on the Wall conference at the Hyatt Regency hotel on Capitol Hill, Elizabeth Johnston, who is known as The Activist Mommy, urged attendees to be vigilant, noting that pornographic, gender-bending sex ed materials are being pushed in schools nationwide. And people cannot continue with the illusion that if they live in a culturally conservative state or district that it will not affect them, she said, as many are innocently ignorant about how deeply entrenched it is. Johnston, who personally home schools her children but herself attended public schools and taught in them, believes public education is in crisis. "And it not just a Common Core crisis, not just a crisis of dumbing down our children. It's much, much worse than that. It is a moral crisis, and we're paying for it," she said as she recounted several instances of sexually explicit content and events that took place at public schools. "In Durham, North Carolina Bible Belt, folks in a middle school, they didn't just have drag queens reading stories, they had a drag show ... to [supposedly] fight oppression and bullying." She added, "How much you want to bet that if a Christian student rises up and says 'We don't want this drag show' that that Christian will be bullied while they fight bullying and oppression with their drag show." In a conservative district of Indiana, students were taught how to take a bus route to Planned Parenthood, she said. And it's well-funded left-wing groups like the abortion giant that are actively pushing perversion on young people through deceptively-worded health lessons. "They are teaching our children how to play with blood in their sexual activities. They are teaching our children fisting, which you don't even know what that is, most of you. But it's sticking your fist in body parts as a sexual act," Johnston said. Yet many people are still unaware this is going on, she said, noting that sex education materials are cloaked with euphemisms like "family life," and therefore, no red flags go off in the minds of parents concerning what happens at school. If parents demand to see the curriculum and nothing looks objectionable teachers are still given "resources" for their classroom the school is not obligated to disclose as they are not technically part of the curriculum, she said. Johnston said although it's called sex ed, she sees it as pandering obscenities to minors. Compounding matters further, in 45 of the 50 states public schools are exempt from obscenity laws, she added, indicating that there are legal efforts afoot to close those loopholes. The activist mother went on to share several success stories of how parents rose up and fought back and where the schools were forced to scrap various lessons. Last year, Johnston spearheaded a movement to withdraw students from public schools in protest of sex ed curriculum called Sex Ed Sit Out, which was replicated in California earlier this month by a group of engaged parents. "This is definitely an issue where you can link arms with people of other faiths," Johnston said, in response to a question from The Christian Post about how parents can engage their communities and school administrators. "We are all tax-paying citizens. Muslims and Christians, and even members of the LGBT community are outraged at much of the stuff that is taking place." This is especially important when school administrators support the use of sex ed materials parents find objectionable, she stressed. "You must do everything necessary to protect the innocence of the children in that school," Johnston said. Fellow panelist Eric Buehrer, founder of Gateways to Better Education, stressed during his remarks that parents need to build relationships with school administrators with the goal of helping them do whatever they can to help academic outcomes improve and behavioral problems decrease. Buehrer said he urges families to get to know their district school board representative and take them out to lunch and ask how they can assist them. But if officials are obstinate and insist on pushing graphic sex ed, he said, "that's when you move from relational activism to political activism and you get poured out." "In most communities, school board races are won by very few voters. If just the churches in that community would turn out in abundance you would have a majority of the board. But people don't see it on their radar screen," he said. Johnston urged pastors to encourage and identify good people within their congregations to run for the school board. The Watchmen on the Wall conference is an annual gathering put on by the Washington-based Family Research Council. Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Recently, I encouraged Christian parents in California who had children in public schools to defy the law and pull their kids from the states extreme sex-ed curriculum. How did the Friendly Atheists resident Episcopalian blogger respond? According to Sarahbeth Caplin, I want these parents to teach their kids that transgender people dont exist. (Yes, she actually wrote this.) In sum, This is just faith-based, hate-fueled fear-mongering. Its the only subject in which Michael Brown is an expert. What a sad commentary on the nature of liberal illogic. And what a misrepresentation of the facts. If you missed my initial article, you might want to take a minute to read it now, checking the links as well. After that, please do read Caplins article. Then, do what I did after reading her article, namely, scratch your head and wonder, What is she thinking? My article says absolutely nothing about the existence or non-existence of people who identify as transgender. Instead, it protests the idea that kindergarten children should be told that perhaps theyre actually boys in girls bodies (or the reverse, or some other option). That is unwarranted, unscientific, and unwise, and the school has no business introducing such subjects to impressionable little children who dont even understand the differences between the sexes. Yet for arguing that our kids should be protected, Im a hater. (You are too, if you agree with me.) And what does Caplin say about the links I provided detailing the terrible harm that is coming to children who wrongly believe they are transgender? Not a syllable. Nothing. Nada. Where is the Christian compassion? Where is the concern? Really, it feels as if the hatred for a Christian conservative position is so intense that it blinds those who oppose our views. Caplin, for her, is concerned about LGBT kids being bullied in schools, and I share her concern. But bullying is hardly limited to LGBT-identified kids. In fact, Christian kids are often bullied in todays anti-faith environment. Either way, regardless of who is being bullied, the solution is not to introduce a radical sex-ed curriculum. Instead, it is to teach that all bullying is bad. That every child should be treated with kindness and respect. Period. Whats so hard about that? Caplin claims that, These lessons arent advocating anything. But does she really believe that? Can she really believe that, given the openness and success of LGBT educators for several decades now? Already in 1995, Patricia Nell Warren could say (in the gay activist Advocate), Whoever captures the kids owns the future, and educators have fully understood the principle. That same year, Dan Woog wrote a book titled Schools Out: the Impact of Gay and Lesbian Issues on Americas Schools (Boston: Alyson Publications, 1995). Woog asked, A decade ago, who would have thought that an entire book could be written on the subject of homosexuality and education written, in fact, using real names, real schools, and real incidents, many of them not only positive but spectacularly so? Yes, already in 1995, there was massive progress in the LGBT educational agenda. Without question (and really, without apology), LGBT educators and their allies have had a clearly defined agenda for decades, with many specific goals and objectives. Of course they are advocating something. More than 10 years ago, I purchased GLSENs Lunchbox, containing material for teachers to implement in their classrooms. One of the lessons was titled Getting in Touch with Your Inner Trannie, again, for little children in elementary school. Please dont tell me these sex-ed classes arent advocating anything. That is intellectually irresponsible, to say the least. It almost borders on dishonesty. Caplin mocks the idea that high school sex education involves discussing the intricacies of anal sex. Perhaps she can talk to the kids who come home from school crying, thoroughly embarrassed by the trash they have been exposed to? Perhaps she can talk to the kids who learn to put condoms on, using the fingers of their classmates for practice? Perhaps she can talk to kids in New York schools who were subject to exercises like this (as far back as 2011): Kids ages 11 and 12 sort risk cards to rate the safety of various activities, including intercourse using a condom and an oil-based lubricant, mutual masturbation, French kissing, oral sex and anal sex. For decades now, Christian parents have been pulling their kids out of public schools and putting them in Christian schools of home-schooling them. But not everyone is able to do this (or desires to do this). Thats why I joined my voice with the voice of millions of concerned Christian parents across the nation, especially in California. If the state wants to force trash like this on their children, then the righteous, moral, and responsible thing to do is pull their kids out of those classes. The only thing hateful is the response of progressives like Caplin. That being said, Sarahbeth, if you read this, lets talk. Join me on the air one day, and we can discuss the differences plainly but without vitriol. Im willing if you are. A forgotten voice in the Alabama abortion debate The goal of the new, strict Alabama abortion law is to potentially overturn Roe v. Wade. The law would penalize abortion doctors, and it contains no exception clauses, except for the life and health of the mother. In all of the brouhaha about the new Alabama law, there is a long-stilled voice that has been forgotten. That of the repentant Roe of Roe v. Wade. Of course, Norma McCorvey was the Jane Roe of Roe v. Wade. After converting to Christ and the pro-life position (about 15 years after the Supreme Court decision), she proclaimed to the world that the whole case had been based on a lie (a few lies, really). Chief among the lies was that she was raped (gang-raped at that), and that was why she needed an abortion. By the time, Roe v. Wade was decided on January 22, 1973, Norma had already had her baby (a girl), whom she gave up for adoption. Justice William Rehnquist, one of two dissenters in the decision, voted against it because it was a moot point. Roe's baby had already been born. The opinion of Roe of Roe v. Wade is significant for the abortion debate, including the Alabama law, because abortion was accepted on a wide scale throughout the country, only by judicial fiat. It was not something "we the people" voted on. Look at how divided the country continues to be on the subject of abortion. Well, why not? We the people did not decide that case on that fateful Monday. Dissenting Justice Byron White, the only Justice appointed by JFK, said that Roe was an "act of raw judicial power." Those who live by court decisions should die by court decisions. And Roe herself, after her pro-life and Christian conversion, tried to legally overturn Roe v. Wade since it was all based on lies. Therefore, if the new Alabama law helps overturn Roe, so be it. Yet one person called the Alabama law "a major step towards the death of democracy." Oh brother. The Constitution shows that the courts, including the Supreme Court, were never designed to legislate or execute our laws. There obviously was a time when Roe favored abortion. She was in opposition to Henry Wadethe pro-life attorney general of Texas, where Norma was living at the time of the lawsuit that worked its way up to the high Court. In an interview with D. James Kennedy Ministries television, she said, "My story began many, many years ago in 1969 when I found myself pregnant, on the streets. I was into drugs, and I really didn't have any other alternatives in line. I did not believe in God, and I'd fallen away from the church at a very early age. Jumping ahead, change came about because of new neighbors moving in. Unwelcome neighbors at first. What transformed her in particular was meeting a little girl who truly loved God. Norma continued, "In retrospect, when I look back on those days, and I see what a sad person I was, I have to really kind of smile and think about little Emily: a little seven year old girl who came up to me at my office one day and told me that if I knew God that I wouldn't be going to the place downstairs. She befriended me when Operation Rescue moved in next door to the abortion clinic where I worked. And at first I didn't like them there because they reminded me of what we were doing. I worked in an abortion clinic. We killed children for a living." She added, "I was a child-killer. I was an executioner....There's a fellow in the Bible; his name was Baal. He was into child sacrificing, and that's basically what you're doing out there todayyou are sacrificing your child for a career, or high school or college." Norma found forgiveness through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, who died for sinners, paying the penalty for our sins, for those who believe: "And I think once you're forgiven by God, you should forgive yourself. But then you really should not put yourself in that kind of situation either." Norma warns against what happens in an abortion: "You are totally different after you've had an abortion. Abortion kind of sucks your soul dry; it makes you a very angry person inside, from what I've seen." This is why for the last several years of her life until her death in 2017, Norma McCorvey fought against abortion on demand. She would have welcomed Alabama's new law as a way to try to undo the damage of Roe. She said: "We want the child-killing to stop....There are other alternatives, other than abortion; there's adoption....We don't want to see Roe v. Wade to be the law of the land anymore. We want our children back." Jerry Newcombe is an on-air host/senior producer for D James Kennedy Ministries and writes at www.jerrynewcombe.com Catholic clergy have to report abuse, but what will the Church do with that information? Pope Francis recently changed the Catholic Church law, making it mandatory for clergy to report sexual abuse to church superiors. In the past, such reporting was left to the discretion of a priest or nun. Pope Francis' proposal is an effort to address gaps in the regulatory process of the church, which has been accused of shielding clergy sexual abuse. It provides a process to report allegations up the pipeline. As a scholar of law I worry that it fails to address what the church will do with that information. To date, religious organizations, such as the Catholic Church, have adopted inconsistent positions on whether, and to what degree, they should share information necessary for legal action. Clergy across various religions, ranging from Christians to Catholics to Muslims to Jews, are willing to share evidence in cases of violent crimes, such as murders. But when the evidence pertains to clergy misconduct, namely sexual abuse, the tide changes. Clergy privilege plays a key role in what information is shared. What is clergy privilege? Every state in the US recognises a clergy privilege, which shields clergy from forced disclosure of confidential spiritual communications. This protection extends to confessions but also to conversations that provide solace, comfort and aid. Often, courts rely on clergy to decide whether the requirements of the privilege apply in a given case. In my research, I reviewed more than 700 judicial decisions addressing clergy privilege in a variety of cases, ranging from murder to sexual abuse. These decisions show how clerics decide to testify on a case-by-case basis. In doing so, they share confidences that are protected under broad clergy privilege statutes. Particularly in cases involving violent crimes, clergy often apply their own narrow definitions of what is privileged. In State v. Cartmell, for example, a chaplain testified about a communication with the defendant in a murder case. According to the defendant, he and the chaplain were praying together during this communication, which could be viewed as a spiritual activity covered under the clergy privilege statute. It was during this time that the defendant allegedly confessed to the murder. The chaplain contended before the court that the confession was not spiritual and thus not covered by clergy privilege. He said the defendant was only "trying to make peace, sense of what had happened." In another such case, Morales v. Portuondo, a Catholic priest received a murder confession. The murderer was not convicted. Rather, two others were sentenced. The priest struggled for years over whether to break the seal of confession. With the assistance of officials at the diocese, he opted to disclose. The priest revised his characterization of the communication from sacramental confession to a "heart-to-heart." With this minor reframing, the priest unilaterally decided he could share the confession with officials. In short, when clergy want to testify, they find ways to remove the shroud of confidentiality. In divulging these communications, clergy are not necessarily acting unethically. Rather, clergy have numerous duties that compete with canonical obligations of confidentiality duties to protect their congregation, advance justice and to help wrongdoers down a path of repentance. A different stance on clergy abuse? Notably, though, my research shows this trend often reverses when the communication involves clergy abuse. In many church sex abuse cases, churches have asserted privilege to shield communications by alleged perpetrators to their superiors and fellow priests. In some lawsuits for alleged abuse, clergy claimed virtually every document between a cleric and superior was inviolably protected. For example, in Hutchinson v. Luddy, the plaintiff, an alleged victim of sexual assault by a Catholic priest, sought documents relating to the church's investigation of wrongdoing. These documents included reports of alleged sexual involvement with minor male children by priests in the diocese. The church categorically refused, claiming privilege to shield this information. This protectionist approach appears across many denominations in church sex abuse cases. This includes cases involving Methodist, Episcopalian and Roman Catholic clerics. Rather than sharing information about alleged wrongdoing with law officials, members of the church allegedly covered up the accusations. A grand jury report revealed the scale of the problem when it found last year that bishops and other leaders in six of Pennsylvania's eight Catholic dioceses had covered up child sexual abuse by more than 300 priests over a period of 70 years. Some dioceses still shield the names of alleged abusers. Only a starting point In my view, the last 200 years of clergy privilege decisions show the need for external oversight to avoid this selective approach. Clergy elect when and how much information about alleged wrongdoing to divulge. When the alleged wrongdoer is one of their own, the tendency, I would argue, may be toward less transparency, not more. Pope Francis' new law is a step in the right direction. It urges more information sharing and more oversight. But the church needs to be careful not to play both the judge and the jury. Christine P Bartholomew, Associate Professor of Law, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. War, what is it good for? On my commute home after a long day, the 1970s hit song "War" by Edwin Starr came over my Serius radio station. I can remember passionately singing its lyrics, "War, what is good for? Absolutely nothing," at age 11 when it was at the top of the Billboard charts. And there I was alone in my car fifty years later, once again, singing those same words, when suddenly I paused mid-lyrics, realizing I didn't believe that anymore. Not all war is wrong. Granted, war always tends to produce greater evils than those which precipitated its cause. But to argue all war is wrong to say that there is absolutely nothing good about it just isn't true. The pacifist's position on war nor the militarist's view is actually right. The truth lies between the two extremes. America's first great military general, George Washington, expressed the desire of every sober-minded person concerning war. Washington said: "My first wish is to see the whole world in peace, and the inhabitants of it as one band of brothers, striving who should contribute most to the happiness of mankind. For the sake of humanity, it is devoutly to be wished that the manly employments of agriculture and the humanizing benefits of commerce should suspend the wastes of war and the rage of conquest and that the sword may be turned into the plow-share." Nevertheless, as the late Presbyterian scholar, Lorraine Boettner argued in his classic publication, "The Christian Attitude Toward War," war is sometimes just, necessary, and sometimes good. Boettner writes: "If the people of Europe had not resisted the Mohammedan invasions, Europe would have been conquered and, humanly speaking, Christianity would have been stamped out. If at the time of the Reformation the Protestants had not resisted the Roman Catholic persecutions, crimes such as were practiced so freely in the Spanish and Italian Inquisitions would have become common all over Europe, and Protestantism would have been destroyed. If the American colonists had not fought for their rights, this country would not have gained its independence...We desire peace, but we realize there are some things worse than war. We desire peace, but not the kind found in the slave camp or the cemetery." Over and again in the Old Testament, God directly commands the Israelites to go to war against their enemies. After they were delivered from Egypt, Moses and the people sang, "Jehovah is a man of war: Jehovah is his name. Pharaoh's chariots and his host hath he cast into the sea" (Exod. 15:3,4). After wandering in the wilderness for 40 years, the Israelites entered the Promised Land, and God told them to drive out its wicked inhabitants. Joshua received direct instructions from God as to how to fight the battle of Jericho. Many of the Psalms are prayers for guidance and victory during war-time. The nations that Israel often fought were so vile and sinful that God authorized war against them to wipe them out. And when the Israelites became like the pagan nations and were abominable in their own behaviors, God raised armies to make war against them. There is no question that the Scriptures teach that war, in the Providence of the Almighty, is sometimes sanctioned and divinely appointed. It may sound remarkably striking, but the truth is war can serve wholesome objectives. Of course, someone will quickly take exception to this assertion and claim the New Testament has a different message. The teachings of Christ always forbid war, they'll say. Such arguments can seem quite persuasive, when based on some poignant sentiment, or when Scripture is selectively employed, and the larger context of the Bible's teachings as a whole on the subject is avoided. The New Testament doesn't provide any direct teaching on war. Jesus does command his followers to render to Caesar what is Caesar's. The apostle Paul teaches in the book of Romans that Christians must recognize the authority of civil government and perform their duties to their country. It is also true that Christians are living in a different dispensation than the people of God in Old Testament times. Still, as Boettner contends, "When rightly understood the two Testaments are supplementary, not contradictory. The silence of the New Testament on the subject of war apparently rests on the assumption that the subject had been adequately treated and did not call for any addition or modification." I believe the wars America has fought through the years were just and right. I think Colin Powell, the U.S. Secretary of State who served under President George W. Bush, summed it up quite eloquently when he said: "Over the years, the United States has sent many of its fine young men and women into great peril to fight for freedom beyond our borders. The only amount of land we have ever asked for in return is enough to bury those who did not return." As Abraham Lincoln said in his incomparable Gettysburg Address "that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to the cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain...and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth." "War, what is good for? Absolutely nothing." No, that just isn't true. Rev. Mark H. Creech is executive director of the Raleigh-based Christian Action League of North Carolina Inc. Its the stories behind these pieces that make them so magical Fashion designer Alice Temperley discusses the eclectic influences behind her romantic, whimsical designs, and shares her thoughts on treasures from the Maharajas & Mughal Magnificence collection British fashion designer Alice Temperley is best known for her designs that incorporate luxurious fabrics, elegant embroidery, detailed printed patterns and hand finishes. Since launching Temperley London from a hotel bedroom in 2000, she has dressed celebrities ranging from Demi Moore to Kate Moss. Now stocked in 37 countries, and with a six-floor flagship store in Mayfair, Temperley London has become a mainstay of the fashion scene. The designer can trace her interest in textile and jewellery design back to her bohemian childhood in Somerset. My nickname is Magpie, Temperley reveals in our video, because I was always collecting jewellery. The appreciation of fine jewels is a family affair, it transpires: The whole family has always really loved dressing up and wearing head pieces and costume jewellery. My grandmother used to have lots of amazing buckles and jewels, as well as a very large collection of beautiful lace that once belonged to Queen Victoria. For Temperley, some of the most magnificent and inspiring jewels in the world come from India, a country with which she has had a long-standing love affair. Im always drawn to Indian jewellery because of the way the stones are cut, she explains. Then theres their extraordinary colouring. The Indian palette is very different to any palette you find anywhere else, she adds. Whether sourcing Indian textiles, paintings or jewellery, Temperley says she is drawn to their vibrant colours, which she describes as astounding. The designer reveals that jewellery drawings serve as a source of inspiration for her own work. Weve made beautiful dresses that have layers and layers of embroidery that look like jewels, she says. Its a lovely way of incorporating jewellery into the garment, if you cant get the real thing. Temperley came to Christies in London to take a close-up look at the collection of extraordinary treasures offered in the Maharajas & Mughal Magnificence sale on 19 June at Christies in New York. Maharaja jewels are the most beautiful pieces of jewellery you can get, she says. The scale of them, the craft in them its East meets West in the most beautiful, opulent way. These diamonds are thicker than normal diamonds, but because of their flat cut theyve got a beautiful depth to them Within the collection Temperley admires an emerald, diamond and pearl turban headpiece, signed by Cartier, and a splendid gold, diamond, emerald and enamel necklace. The latter was made for the Nizam of Hyderabad in the mid-to-late 19th century, and is one of the most spectacular examples of princely jewellery in the world. These diamonds are thicker than normal diamonds, Temperley points out, but because of their flat cut they've got a beautiful depth to them. FREDERICKSBURG For Pam and Joe Holzworth of Pasadena, a stop at the Studebaker Farms peach stand on Highway 290 was the sweet finale to their Hill Country getaway. I have to eat them over a sink theyre so juicy, Pam said as her husband dug out bills for a box of regals. She also was stocking up for favorite summertime treats, such as peach cobbler and frozen peaches blended into fruity cocktails. The couple are in luck this year. Despite a season marked by early and late freezes, rain dumps and heavy spring winds, just about every peach tree in just about every Hill Country orchard is full of ripe or ripening fruit. Weve been skating through with a lot of blessings here, grower Russ Studebaker said, pointing out varieties hed felt for sure would fail. The Studebakers planted their first trees about 25 years ago, picking up 60 acres when land was cheap. Last week, he steered his 1961 Studebaker pickup through rows of newer and older trees. Lucas Mackan, a local college student, loaded peaches directly into boxes, following Studebakers guidelines: pick when the fruit has gone from green to blush and the coloring is either creamy or freckled red. Thats what keeps us in business, Studebaker said. You cant pick a peach green. It wont ripen fully. The best may be yet to come, as later-season varieties such as lorings, dixilands, red globes and ouachita gold (a yellow-skinned variety with a cult following) look to be in abundant supply. Down the road a few miles, Jamey Vogel of Vogel Orchard stopped short of predicting a record crop. But he said this years looks at least as good as the last really good crop in 2015 and has the potential to match the super good crop of 2010. Its been a nice surprise. In early March, we thought we were going to lose the whole crop, he said. We had a late winter blast. We had three mornings that were in the 20s. ReNew HOUSTON: Pick fruits and vegetables that are in season for the best nutrition Hill Country peaches have a big following for a lot of reasons. The soils are said to be rich in flavor-enhancing minerals from deposits left by an ancient sea. The elevation allows for cool nights that provide winter chill hours necessary for buds to break dormancy. The region is on the edge of a Texas arid zone, which makes for a higher sugar content than most other peaches. But Texas weather is notoriously fickle. A warm winter can mean barren trees. Whats blossomed into a hearty crop can be wiped out by an Easter freeze. Growers never know when Mother Nature will pound their orchards with hail. Instant Analysis Text HOUSTON to 77453 to get premium breaking news alerts from HoustonChronicle.com by text | Sign up to receive breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. See More Collapse Vogels theory is that the rains that preceded this years March freeze kept humidity levels high. When you really get the damage in the winter from a late freeze is when you have real low humidity, he said. Like many Hill Country peach orchards, Vogels is family-owned. His parents, George and Nelda, planted their first trees in 1953. They opened a roadside stand in 1972, joining a tourist-driven trade thats taken off over the last 20 years. In his opinion, the exploding Hill Country wine scene the region now ranks second to Californias Napa Valley for wine tourism has boosted business even more. People want to say, Oh, the wine industry is taking over. Its like theyre taking away from us. But its really added to the traffic here, Vogel said. The folks who buy wine also buy peaches. Its all made a destination out of what a few generations ago was an isolated community of German immigrants who mostly grew cotton. Mark Wieser, co-founder of the Fischer & Wieser brand of specialty jams and sauces and owner of Fredericksburgs Das Peach Haus, traces the start of the Fredericksburg peach industry to a post-World War I bust in cotton prices. In 1926, strapped suppliers called about 450 farmers to a meeting at the courthouse, and told them they needed to find a new, money-making crop. Wiesers father, who came from a fruit-growing region on the German-Swiss border, suggested fruit. By 1935, the region had the foundation of its current peach industry. He planted the first peach orchard in 1928. By junior high school, Mark Wieser figured out that sitting out by the side of the road with a sign touting fresh peaches could be lucrative. One day he made about $85, which he said is the equivalent of about $850 today. And there turned out to be plenty of business to go around. RECIPE: Easy Peach Cobbler Don Eckhardt, now 87, said his parents were among the other peach pioneers, starting with about seven acres of Alberta peach trees in the 1930s. Acreage expanded until the family decided it was getting to be too much. The family now has about 50 acres behind their new stand on U.S. Highway 87. It wasnt always easy. The family once went consecutive seven years without a crop. Another year they got wiped out by hail. Something that looks very prosperous in a moments time, we were through, Eckhardt said. He recalled loading a truck with peaches and driving down country roads to be at the San Antonio market by 4 a.m. Now the market comes to them, including the fellow Fredericksburg old-timer who stopped by to fill a bag with peaches and speak for a few minutes in German. We went from wholesaling to retail, Eckhardt said with a smile. And we like it a lot better. lbrezosky@express-news.net Cameron LNG is poised to load its first export shipment of liquefied natural gas following the arrival of the first LNG tanker at its Louisiana facility. The Singapore-flagged tanker Marvel Crane arrived in the Calcasieu Ship Channel early Tuesday morning where it later docked at the export terminal. The tanker's arrival comes two weeks after President Donald Trump visited the facility to mark the completion of the first production unit at the Hackberry, La., export terminal. Marvel Crane's itinerary was not immediately available, but the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission recently gave Cameron LNG permission to sell any liquefied natural gas made during the facility's weeks-long startup process on the global spot market through shipments known as commissioning cargoes. Export Ready: Feds give Cameron LNG permission to begin commissioning cargoes Developed by San Diego utility company Sempra Energy and four overseas partners, construction crews began the final stages of a startup process, known as commissioning, at Cameron LNG's first production unit in April. Two more production units remain under construction. Once all three are in operation, Cameron LNG will be able to make nearly 12 million metric tons of LNG per year. Those production figures translate roughly to about 1.7 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day, enough energy to power 8.5 million U.S. homes for a day. Fuel Fix: Get daily energy news headlines in your inbox Marvel Crane is owned by the Japanese shipping company NYK Line and was built by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. in Nagasaki, Japan. Completed in February, the ship has apple-shaped tanks that have greater LNG-carrying capacity than other models, as well as a hybrid stream and natural gas propulsion system that reduces fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Marvel Crane is the second LNG tanker that NYK Line has placed under a 25-year charter with Mitsui & Co., Ltd. as part of the Cameron LNG project. A Los Angeles man who pleaded guilty in a scheme to embezzle $3.1 million from Dallas-based Beck Group was sentenced to six years in federal prison, U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick announced Tuesday. It was the first sentencing in a scam involving several individuals from across the country who submitted fake invoices from the Beck Group, a construction and architecture firm, related to a luxury hotel development project in downtown Houston called Le Meridien. U.S. District Judge Vanessa Gilmore ordered Charles Williams, 43, to prison for 72 months followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay more than $3 million in restitution to Beck. Williams conspired with six people to commit wire fraud and money laundering. The other individuals include: Moses Said, 42, of Houston; Lanamasha Hampton, 42, and Collette Devoe Hines, 49, both of Atlanta; Janell Crosby Quant, 38, of Union City, Ga.; Heather Ashley Sowa, 31, of Denver; and William Lewis Sutton Jr., 48, of Los Angeles. They have all pleaded guilty for their roles in the scheme. 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 Williams was among those who created shell companies to submit false invoices to the Beck Group for payment of construction products that were not provided and construction services that were not performed. Said was in charge of the Le Meridien project from 2016 to 2017 as a construction manager with the Beck Group. He approved and submitted the false invoices, which Beck payed to the shell companies. Some of the fraudulent proceeds were paid to Williams and Said, who transferred the funds to other companies or individuals in an attempt to conceal and disguise them. Williams was allowed to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility on a yet-undetermined date. When Chris Steubing, one of Sugar Land's assistant city managers, asked Public Works employees what kept them up at night, many had very specific answers: a waterline that had had problems for years, a sewer line going under a creek that was always a concern. Those answers came from years of informal data collection, Steubing said. "We always joke around: 'Let's get that out of their heads onto paper. So five, 10 years down the road when those people have moved on, we know what to do." Now, Sugar Land is paying an engineering and audit firm $720,000 to do just that. SUGAR LAND: Sugar Land's University Boulevard extension gives rise to development The city signed contracts with Lockwood, Andrews and Newnam, a national civil engineering firm based in Houston, and with international audit firm KPMG to assess the risks to its water systems and buildings to determine what needs to be maintained or replaced. Steubing said such a risk-based management plan was uncommon. "We're not aware of anybody who has taken it to the level we are: citywide." Kyle LeBlanc, an associate at Lockwood, Andrews and Newnam, said the practice of assessing the state of assets to create a plan has been used for over 20 years in Europe, where many governments are maintaining very old infrastructure. But in the United States, he said, it was new approach to managing city assets. "The city of Sugar Land is, I would say, leading the pack in this approach," LeBlanc said. The contract calls for engineers to analyze the condition of the roofs and mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, among other components, as well as the risk of flooding. KPMG will then analyze the information to help the city budget and plan for maintenance. "No one wants to be caught off guard with a waterline break," Steubing said. "This is our next step to make sure our investments are at the right place at the right time." The assessment is expected to be completed in January 2020. Heat, sun, satisfactory river currents. The stars were aligned for an ideal start to tubing season in Central Texas. Tubers headed to New Braunfels Saturday to capture a day of fun in the sun at the Comal and Guadalupe rivers. The sky was blue, and then it wasn't. Storm clouds blotted out the afternoon sun, turning the day into night. On Capitol Hill, in downtown restaurants and Metro cars, phones blared an emergency alert in unison: Seek shelter. Avoid windows. Office workers crowded at their windows anyway to watch the rain lash the streets and the trees bow in submission. And then, all of a sudden, it was over. Shopkeepers swept water out of doorways. The sun was back, the air was mild and full of the chirping of birds. Life in Washington, D.C., resumed as if nothing had happened. It was at this very moment that a ghost in a gray suit strolled, alone and unnoticed, through Eastern Market, less than a mile from the Capitol. "I'm not talking," Al Franken said, declining an interview request outside the studio where he was going to record an episode of the Al Franken Podcast. Franken, 68, is talking, but only on his terms: into a microphone, in the studio, where he gets to set the agenda during the interviews and exercise editorial discretion afterward. He'll chat with Sarah Silverman about her dark sense of humor, and policy wonk Andy Slavitt about health care. He'll trade George H.W. Bush impressions with Dana Carvey and talk about climate change with Michael E. Mann, whom Franken dubbed "The Meryl Streep of climatologists." He does have an audience: After he announced the podcast on Twitter, it quickly hit Apple's Hot and New chart, and according to the website Chartable was for a brief time the ninth most popular podcast in the country. Notably absent, however, from the first batch of recordings has been any discussion of what happened; of why Franken spends his Fridays in a tucked-away recording studio instead of debating legislation on the Senate floor. It's been nearly a year and a half since Franken, under pressure from fellow Democrats, resigned his Senate seat following allegations of sexual misconduct. Franken's was always one of the more hotly debated situations of the #MeToo era. The accusations against him ranged from unwanted kissing to groping during photo sessions and resulted in his resignation. But the decision was fraught: There were Democrats who didn't believe Franken's actions, especially considering who was president, required such a heavy punishment. And now, his attempted return to relevance raises more difficult questions: Who deserves a second chance? What does he have to do to earn it? "We don't have, as a culture, the vocabulary to deal with all the nuances of this moment," said Karen Finney, a former spokeswoman for Hillary Clinton. "If he chooses to do so, he has a real opportunity to again be part of moving the conversation forward." Just because you can't hear it on Franken's podcast doesn't mean the conversation isn't happening elsewhere. On the presidential campaign trail, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., gets asked on a regular basis about her decision to call for Franken's resignation ("I had a choice to make whether to stay silent or not, whether to say, 'That's not OK with me,' and I decided to say that," Gillibrand said at a recent MSNBC town hall). Franken's friends, like Silverman, come to his defense in the pages of glossy magazines ("I'm so sad that he got bullied into resigning," she told GQ in a 2018 interview). And when the podcast isn't rolling, Franken will gripe, according to friends and co-workers, about what was "taken away" from him. The accusations against Franken arrived in the midst of an Alabama Senate race in which stories of sexual misconduct against the Republican, Roy Moore, played a central role. Democrats, who called Moore unfit and pointed to the allegations that he had dated underage girls when he was in his 30s, had reason to be especially vigilant about holding the moral high ground. And so they put Franken out during a storm. To Franken and his supporters, it felt like a political calculation, not a moral one. They want him back in the arena. But what the women said about the former Minnesota senator - about how he had groped them, or kissed them inappropriately - cannot be swept out of the doorways like rainwater. How do you solve a problem like Al Franken? "We all know Harvey Weinstein should go to jail and rot there," said Finney. "But Franken ... I don't think we know the answer yet for what is the process for returning." That answer might depend on what Franken says next. --- Because the world seems to be filled with men doing creepy things, it can be hard to remember exactly what Al Franken is accused of doing. First came the allegations from Leeann Tweeden, a radio host out of Los Angeles, who posted a story on her station's website about a time in 2006 when she and Franken performed a skit together at a USO event overseas. The skit involved a kiss, and Tweeden said that during a rehearsal, Franken used the script as a means to forcibly lock lips against her will. The story, published in November 2017, also featured a photograph taken from the tour: one of a wide-eyed Franken appearing to grab at Tweeden's chest while she slept in a helmet and Kevlar vest. "I don't know what was in my head when I took that picture, and it doesn't matter," Franken wrote after the story published, calling for an ethics investigation into his own behavior. "There's no excuse. I look at it now and I feel disgusted with myself." Three days later Lindsay Menz told CNN that Franken had grabbed her buttocks in 2010 while posing for a picture at the Minnesota State Fair, a claim echoed by two more anonymous women a few days after that. In total eight women accused him of misbehavior. On Dec. 6, 2017, Gillibrand released a statement and gave a news conference calling on her friend and occasional squash partner to resign. By the end of the day the majority of Senate Democrats called for him to step down, too. "Some of the allegations against me are simply not true," Franken said on the Senate floor announcing his plans to step down. "Others, I remember very differently." After leaving the Senate, Franken has avoided talking about the subject in public. In private, though, according to friends and colleagues, he often can't shut up about it. Even with months to reflect, it would appear his feelings haven't much changed. "I do know that he believes that he did nothing significantly wrong," said Norman Ornstein, a resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute and one of Franken's best friends. For more than eight years, Franken had loved being a senator, and by most accounts, was a good one. He'd made a name for himself as a deft interrogator in congressional hearings. In one particularly memorable moment, Franken questioned Jeff Sessions, then the nominee for attorney general, about possibile affiliations between the Trump campaign and the Russian government. The question prompted Sessions to call himself a Trump "surrogate," which would later lead to his recusal from Russia investigations, and introduce the country to Robert Mueller and his eventual report. "Regardless of whether you think it was right or wrong for him to leave the Senate, his voice is missed in the midst of this Trump-created crisis of democracy we're living through," said Stephanie Cutter, political consultant and former deputy campaign manager for President Barack Obama. Franken's name had even been bandied about as a possible presidential candidate for 2020, someone with progressive bona fides who happened to be from the Midwest. And like that, he was just a guy splitting time between D.C. and Minnesota, spending time with his grandchildren, and trying to figure out how to get back in the fight. His entire legacy seemed to hang in the balance: his time as a staff writer and performer on "Saturday Night Live," his career as a best-selling author of lefty books and his work in the Senate all potentially overshadowed by his ignominious exit. He was, Ornstein said, "very depressed." --- Franken never stopped thinking about how to re-enter, in his words, "the fray." He got encouragement out in public: a standing ovation when he showed up to his Harvard reunion last June, according to his longtime friend and Washington Post opinion writer E.J. Dionne; tweets of support from fans; and a poll of Minnesota voters showing more people wished he hadn't resigned than were glad he did. He surrounded himself with PR professionals like Mandy Grunwald, one of Hillary Clinton's top aides. He hired a digital firm to make him a splashy new website, where he recently began posting his writing (William Barr congressional testimony fan-fic, anyone?). And he watched comedian Louis C.K.'s ill-fated comeback into the comedy world for tips on what not to do. "His takeaway was don't be an a--hole," said Ornstein. "But he knew that anyway." And yet, not everyone is sure he's gotten that message. "I think he made out like a bandit," said Tina Dupuy, a former congressional staffer who accused Franken of grabbing her waist during a photo in a way that made her uncomfortable. "He's not the victim here. And now we're talking about a comeback without him even being fully honest about what he's done." Hilary Rosen, a Democratic consultant, says that for Franken to be fully welcomed back into the fray, he needs to take responsibility for why he's no longer in the Senate. Too many people, Rosen said, are blaming Gillibrand for his resignation, putting responsibility onto a woman for the actions of a man. "He never comes to her defense," Rosen said. "I've heard through the grapevine that he blames her and is resentful. Shame on him." For now, Franken has decided the podcast would be the best way to talk, or not, about the Issue. "Let me ask you about taste," Franken said to Sarah Silverman in the most recent episode. "You do a lot of dark humor, and you get away with it for a number of reasons." "I'm different from my first special which is, oof, pretty problematic," Silverman said. "But I feel like if you don't look back on old stuff and cringe you're not necessarily growing." Being a good comedian requires feeling "safe enough to mess around," she said, to know that it's OK to make mistakes as long as you give yourself a chance to grow from them. "There's something wrong right now," Franken said in agreement. "There's too much fear." If he had any thoughts about how this conversation related to his own situation, he either kept it to himself, or it ended up on the cutting-room floor. On the sidewalk after the storm, Franken said there was a reason he wasn't talking about the Issue, and that reason "will become clear in a little while." "I can't explain it right now," he said. "There will be a certain point I give my first interview, and when it happens, I think you'll understand." Maybe everybody will understand, then, what's to be done with Al Franken. Or maybe everyone will know but him. GALVESTON -- The body of a 17-year old boy who went missing near Surfside Beach was found on Tuesday, authorities confirmed. Gary Phillips, the Surfside Beach police chief, said the body was recovered around 10 a.m. four miles north of where the teen was last seen. His body was found by employees of the Brazoria County Parks Department who were doing beach maintenance. Denver oil company Discovery Natural Resources is finding success by drilling in the Permian Basins Spraberry field. The company is seeking permission from the Railroad Commission to Texas to drill 10 horizontal wells targeting the West Texas geological layer in Reagan County to a total depth of 8,500 feet. The drilling project is in the companys Bullhead lease about 10 miles northeast of Big Lake. Discovery produced more than 3.8 million barrels of oil and nearly 27.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas in 2018. More than 90 percent of that oil and more than 81 percent of that natural gas came from the Spraberry. Permian Basin Fort Worth saltwater disposal well developer Boykin Energy is seeking to drill 10 injection wells on its Boatfield SWD lease in Reeves County. Located less than a mile northwest of Orla, the vertical wells target the Olds field of the Delaware geological layer down to a depth of 6,000 feet. Eagle Ford Shale More Information Top 10 Drillers in Texas by Permits (Wednesday, May 15 though Tuesday, May 21) Exxon Mobil: 20 Pioneer Natural Resources: 17 Diamondback Energy: 15 Apache Corp.: 13 Chevron: 11 Boykin Energy: 10 Discovery Natural Resources: 10 Magnolia Oil & Gas: 8 Shell: 8 Devon Energy: 7 Source: Railroad Commission of Texas See More Collapse Former Occidental Petroleum CEO Steve Chazen continues to find success with his new company in South Texas. Chazens new venture, Magnolia Oil & Gas, plans to drill one horizontal well targeting the Austin Chalk geological layer in Fayette County and another seven targeting the Eagle Ford in Karnes County. The wells have a depth of 12,000 feet. Haynesville Shale Frisco-based Comstock Oil & Gas plans to drill a horizontal gas well on its Ambercrombie Vicent H lease in Harrison County. Located about 2 miles southwest of Waskom, the well targets the Carthage field of the Haynesville Shale down to a total depth of 13,000 feet. Barnett Shale A subsidiary of French oil company Total plans to go horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing inside the city limits of Cleburne. Working from a drilling pad on its NLBS lease off West Henderson Street, the company intends to target the Newark East field of the Barnett geological layer at a total depth of 9,000 feet. The horizontal portion of the well ends nearly a mile away underneath the Cross Creek Estates neighborhood. Conventionals Dan A. Hughes Co. plans to drill for oil about 50 miles southwest of Houston. The Beeville oil company is seeking permission to drill a vertical well on its Dahco-Yelderman lease in Brazoria County. Located about a mile northwest of Damon, the well targets the Damon Mound East field down to a depth of 6,000 feet. Virginia-based Venture Global LNG has secured a $1.3 billion equity investment from New York investment firm Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners for its liquefied natural gas project in Cameron Parish, Louisiana. - giving the LNG project a major financial boost as construction starts. Construction activities have started on the 10-million-metric-ton-per-year Calcasieu Pass project, with over $250 million spent on site preparation work, final engineering and equipment purchases and fabrication, Venture Global LNG said in Tuesday announcement. Venture Global's executives said Stonepeak Infrastructure, which has offices in Houston, brings experience in LNG and large-scale infrastructure projects. RELATED: Venture Global's $8.5B Plaquemines LNG project gets final environmental study Venture Global's Co-CEO Bob Pender added, "Calcasieu Pass is already significantly advanced in both site construction and module manufacturing, owing to the $855 million previously raised to date. We are finalizing the balance of our Calcasieu Pass financing with our consortium of project finance lenders, and we look forward to providing LNG to our global customers Shell, BP, Edison S.p.A., Galp, Repsol and PGNiG in 2022." The Calcasieu Pass project received the green light from the Federal Regulatory Energy Commission earlier this year. In March the U.S. Energy Department approved Venture Global to export liquefied natural gas to non-free-trade agreement countries, an important step needed to sell its products to Asian countries where demand for LNG is expected to swell. Venture Global has hired Baker Hughes, a GE company (BHGE) to provide a process solution that utilizes mid-scale, modular, factory-fabricated liquefaction trains. Kiewit is designing, engineering, constructing, commissioning, testing and guaranteeing the Calcasieu Pass facility. The terminal has 20-year supply agreements with several customers, including the international energy companies Royal Dutch Shell and BP. As part of Stonepeak's investment, the investment firm's Managing Director James Wyper will join the board of Calcasieu Pass. "We are long-term believers in the increasing importance of LNG as a global source of greener, cheaper energy ... Calcasieu Pass will be a critical provider of LNG to its blue-chip customer base and we look forward to supporting Venture Global, who we believe to be a global leader in developing low cost LNG production, in its efforts to bring cost-advantaged supply to new and existing markets," added Stonepeak Senior Managing Director Jack Howell. Morgan Stanley served as the exclusive financial advisor for Venture Global LNG on this transaction and Latham & Watkins LLP served as Venture Global's legal counsel. Simpson Thacher served as legal counsel for Stonepeak. Venture Global is also advancing on two other LNG export projects on the Gulf Coast. The company said it expects to secure federal approvals for its 20 million-metric-ton Plaquemines LNG in the third quarter of this year in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana and start construction shortly thereafter. It's also starting applying for permits for a third project called Delta LNG, a 20-million-metric-ton project also proposed in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana. Most gatherings at the Dayton Wall of Honor are somber and reflective in nature, but Mondays assembly was a joyous occasion as the city of Dayton and energy partners Entergy celebrated the completion of significant repairs to the monument area. Just one week before the nation pauses to remember war dead, it seemed fitting for the ceremony. We were able to give around $7,700 to cover the costs of refurbishing the wall, said Pam Williams, Entergy customer service manager. Williams said the grant came under this grant cycle by the company following a request from city leaders for help. We appreciate being able to be part of this collaboration, she said. During Hurricane Harvey, like many structures around the city and county, raging flood waters did considerable damage. The area retained a lot of water around the wall and seeped in behind the bronze plaques that bear the names of our heroes, said Dayton city manager Theo Melancon. The damage not only applied to the plaques, but the mural and marble was coming off the structure including some cracks. Our first job was to address the flooding issue, so we installed a French drain around the wall and secondly, we put all of the plaques back on the wall making sure all of the marble was reattached properly, he said. The city also contracted a local artist who did touch-up work on the mural. Then we weather sealed it and it should be preserved for years to come, Melancon said. While the hedges and trees remain the same, the rest of the plantings were redone by Precision Lawn. The Wall of Honor was the vision of former Dayton mayor Steve Stephens who visited the wall in Washington, D. C. and was moved by the powerful image. Under the leadership of Stephens (2005-2011), the city approved a $14 million bond to build the Dayton Community Center. We came in about $1.5 million under budget and I was able to convince the council to approve the use of the funds for the Wall of Honor, the veteran said proudly. Stephens said it still couldnt have been done without the help of vendors who either only charged their cost or donated their services for free for the erection of the wall. We had so many who stepped up and made this happen, he said. Stephens said he had hoped the middle of the wall would remain empty because it was reserved for those who had been killed in action, missing in action, or prisoners of war. But shortly after the wall was finished, the first Dayton soldier was killed in Afghanistan in 2010 and became the first on the hallowed wall. I remember to this day the flags spaced 20-feet apart lining both sides of SH 146 and the fire department had two ladder trucks crossed with a flag hung between them. The citizens of Dayton, like they always do, came together to honor this young man for his sacrifice that he made for our countrySSgt. Jesse W. Ainsworth, U. S. Army. Taps, July 10, 2010. Now there are 14 inscriptions. I hope we never finish out the middle portion of that wall, the former mayor said. The ceremony was also a salute to those who have served and died in service to the country. Let no storm, no wind, no rain, diminish what this wall and its beauty represents to this community, state and nation, said Frank Shannon, director of customer service, East region for Entergy Texas. Shannon spent 13 of his 30 years working for Entergy in Dayton. He began as a serviceman in 1997, turning on the lights for customers. Let us pray for those who have served, those who serve, and those who gave all. Let never their memories be forgotten. I pray that God continues to inspire young men and women to sign up and serve their nation, Shannon said. For John Jay Ripkowski, the ceremony was an emotional one. My name is on that wall, he said proudly. And so are many of his relatives who are either still living or have since died. Its an honor to be here and to see this many people show up. Its meaningful. Im proud to be an American and to serve my country, he said. Ripkowski had many stories to tell including that of his own grandson who recently served nine years as a crew chief in the Air Force. Ripkowski, the munitions guy for his company, served during the Allied Occupation of Germany and later in the Korean War. His own brother, serving in the Air Force as a gunner, crashed in New Guinea and survived. He was accompanied at the ceremony by his wife Julia who worked for 43 years at Dayton State Bank. John worked for Gulf and is retired from Chevron. I still tend to a few cows, he said and says he has no intentions of leaving his hometown Dayton. He said he was so proud of his community and their support of the military. Our memorial at this community center is a testament to what has defined America as the greatest nation in human history. Men and women across this country have fought and died so that we may stand here today to exercise our freedom of speech and assembly, city manager Melancon said. Their public service must be reciprocated by us in civilian life if we wish to remain the beacon of liberty in a world of tyranny. Melancon closed his remarks with one of the famous quotes from Gen. Douglas MacArthur by saying, Duty, honor, country. Those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, what you will be. dtaylor@hcnonline.com LifeShare Blood Center and several of its hospital partners, are issuing an emergency appeal. Patient care is being severely threatened by the inadequate blood supply that the region has been experiencing for the last several weeks and they need the immediate help of the public. Unfortunately, for many people, it is a problem you dont realize exists unless you have a friend or family member in the hospital whose treatment is delayed or postponed because blood is not available, said LifeShare Regional Director Brooke Hulett. Hulett said at their current state, LifeShare is currently unable to fill hospital orders and is rationing blood. Hospitals may ask us for 20 units, but they only get 10. We cant send what we dont have. We consider an adequate blood supply to be about a three to five-day supply of red blood cells, said Benjamin Prijatel, director of blood operatios. This weekend we had as little as an 8-hour supply of some blood types. Hospitals stretching from Liberty to Chambers to Jefferson County are feeling the crisis where patient care is being affected. Our blood donations havent picked up following the Christmas holidays, around January, said Tiffany Ybarra, said Tiffany Ybarra, MLT (ASCP) at LifeShare. Ybarra said they dont like it, but they usually see a seasonal shortage in December and January and then donations begin to pick up. This year they didnt. Its not just Southeast Texas, or just LifeShare. Its a nationwide issue, she said. Just last Friday, Ybarra said they had four different blood centers from around the state requesting blood from them. I keep up with many of the other blood centers and they are doing different promotions to coax people in to give, she said, but with the critical nature of the current supply, she felt it necessary to go to the public and make them aware. I know theres been severe weather in different areas of our coverage that might have prevented people from coming in and donating, but in my 25 years of being in this business, Ive never seen anything like it, Ybarra said. LifeShare is asking anyone who is eligible to donate blood. If citizens cant, they are strongly encouraging those who can to give and share information about the current crisis to their friends and family. Anyone in the community can help us overcome this situation, Hulett said. The temptation to disqualify oneself might be premature. We really dont want folks to disqualify themselves without asking us if they have a question about whether they can donate or not, said Tiffany Ybarra, MLT (ASCP). As an example, she said, Some think that if they have diabetes they cant donate, but they can. Liberty-Dayton Regional Medical Center recently hosted a blood drive but would be among those that might require more blood in the event of a crisis. Theyre not close to us so its not like we can get there within 10 minutes, Ybarra said. She also pointed out that whole blood has a shelf life of 42 days but in most cases is used long before it ever reaches that point. To help in the crisis drive, there are several opportunities to give in the Liberty County area in the next few days: --May 28, Walmart in Liberty, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. --May 30, First United Methodist Church in Liberty, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. --May 31, Brookshire Brothers in Dayton, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. --June 12, Walmart in Liberty, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about donor eligibility and upcoming blood drives, call 409-838-5289 or visit their website at LifeShare.org. dtaylor@hcnonline.com There was something for everyone heading out and about on Memorial Day weekend in Texas. In Houston, we dropped by the Chocolate and Art Show in downtown Houston where attendees enjoyed exactly that. For $15, guests could peruse all sorts of local underground art, food, beverages and chocolate fondue. Officials with the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office arrested and charged seven people with felony DWI over the course of April, according to records from a public information request filed by the Chronicle. In Texas, a person is charged with DWI if their blood or breath alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 or higher, according to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT.) Insperity, Inc. a Kingwood-based provider of human resources and business performance solutions broke ground on the fifth building at its corporate campus last week. The new facility will be a 10-story, 270,000-square-foot building with a six-level parking garage that will be located near the intersection of Hwy. 59 and Kingwood Drive. About 1,000 employees will work at the new building in Kingwood, which is designed to match the existing architecture on the campus. As one of the areas largest employers, this corporate expansion represents the tremendous success and growth that we have experienced during 33 years of business, said Paul Sarvadi, Insperity chairman and CEO. It also demonstrates our strong optimism about the future and our commitment to helping businesses succeed so communities prosper. Construction will be handled by Houston-based firm D.E. Harvey Builders and will begin this month, according to a statement. The new building is expected to be complete sometime in 2020. The company will also work with local nonprofits to manage greenery that could be lost in the expansion. As part of this corporate expansion, Insperity is working with the City of Houston and Trees For Houston, a nonprofit organization dedicated to planting, protecting and promoting trees, on a multi-year reforestation initiative to replace trees removed for construction purposes, according to the statement. In addition, Insperity will make a $25,000 contribution to Trees For Houston. This initiative gives back to the community by helping to improve common areas that were affected by Hurricane Harvey. The move comes on the heels of an expansion in 2017, when the company opened its fourth building in Kingwood. Construction on the this building began in January 2016. A fourth building was deemed necessary to help Insperity combine some Houston-area work sites. The recently-opened building offers 100,000 square feet of office space and has the capacity for 420 employees. chris.shelton@chron.com A Katy man who was out on $75,000 bond on a murder charge is back in custody following a charge of drug possession, Harris County Precinct 5 Constable Ted Heaps Office reports. Levar Knox, 40, originally from Louisiana, was arrested on Friday, May 24, by Precinct 5 deputies at his Katy apartment on Wednesday, May 22, on an unrelated charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver. The drug charge is a second-degree felony. According to Heaps office, Precinct 5 deputies from the Major Offenders and Narcotics Division executed a search warrant on his Katy apartment in the 2000 block of Westborough Drive. Inside the apartment, deputies found heroin and a stolen firearm, it was reported. According to the latest charging documents, Knox previously was convicted of armed robbery in East Baton Rouge Parish in Louisiana. Knox is currently awaiting trial on charges in the shooting death of 25-year-old Ryan White in Alief on Sept. 24, 2018. Knox was arrested and released after posting bond in December. His latest arrest came after a new arrest warrant was issued after he violated the conditions of his bond. As part of his bond, Knox wore an ankle monitor and violated curfew at least three times in May. Knox has one previous felony charge on his Harris County record for forgery in 2009 but the case was dismissed after the witness could not be found, according to District Clerk documents. At the time of his death, White was under indictment for forgery and aggravated robbery. Prior to his latest arrest, Knoxs bond was raised in March to $185,000 due to violation of his previous bond conditions. His bond has since been revoked and Knox is currently being held in Harris County Jail. rkent@hcnonline.com Despite an effort to save the old Everett Hardware Store building in downtown Conroe, the building was demolished over the weekend. Located at 108 Simonton Street, the building was rebuilt in 1911 after the original wood structure was destroyed in the devastating fire in February of that same year. According to Director of Community Development for the city of Conroe Nancy Mikeska, two additional buildings were also torn down adding up to 18,700 square feet of demolition work. I Chronicles 12:32 conditions Christians to Understand the Times. It is difficult to imagine individuals more attuned to their times than Huntsvilles Samuel Walker Houston and Conroes David Abner Jr. The careers of both of these nationally recognized African-American educators encompassed the progressive era of the early 20th century, an era whose dominant theme found expression in President Woodrow Wilsons book, The New Freedom: All that progressives ask or desire is permission-in an era when development, evolution is the scientific work to interpret the Constitution according to Darwinian principles. The progressivism of the times was furthermore saturated with the concept of Eugenics, a pseudo-science proclaiming a natural hierarchy of the races. This was the theme, for example, of the National Conference on Race Betterment at Battle Creek Michigan in 1914. The three most prominent African American leaders of the era were Booker T. Washington, educated at Hampton Institute, W.E. B. Dubois associated strongly with Atlanta University and Kelly Miller of Howard University. All of these incorporated progressivism and eugenics into their approach to education. Many Texas adults have fond memories of setting up a lemonade stand in their front yard on a hot summer day, making a little spending money for a trip, or the movies. Unfortunately, their children may not share the same nostalgia due to local governments putting the squeeze on those lemonade stands with ordinances and health code requirements. Now the state of Texas may be letting those young entrepreneurs open for business again. HB 234, more popularly known as the 'Save Our Lemonade Stands Bill', unanimously passed the state Senate on Saturday, after also being unopposed in the state House last week. HOUSTON CHRONICLE: Legislature close on bills to fund state parks, improve boating safety HB 234 would prohibit Texas cities and counties from enforcing or adopting ordinances like requiring a license, permit, or fee, that stop children under 18 years of age from selling lemonade, or other non-alcoholic beverages, on private property or in public parks. Under the bill, children would be allowed to sell their soft drinks as long as they have permission from the property owner where their stand is set up. State Rep. Gene Wu of Houston said the bipartisan legislation will bring common sense into public policy. "This sends a resounding message to leave our kids alone," said Wu. The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Abbott. There is one sour note to the lemonade stand bill: Even if signed, it would not take effect until September 1. Danny Hermosillo is the Digital News Editor for Chron.com | Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com | Follow him on Twitter at @Dannyherm1| Email him at Danny.Hermosillo@chron.com | Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message Two children in Katy were rushed to area hospitals on Monday after being found unconscious in a backyard pool and hot tub during separate Memorial Day incidents in Harris County. A toddler girl eager to go swimming in her friend's pool was first to be taken to the hospital in "extremely critical" condition after being found unconscious in the water, according to authorities. Deputies were called to the home in the 4900 block of Windcross Court around 5:30 p.m. and found the 2-year-old girl "unresponsive." The child and her friend went into the pool unattended as their mothers were inside getting their towels, Lt. Kim Fonville said at the home. "The children were excited about getting to go swimming," Fonville said. The other child, who lived at the home with her mother and grandmother, saw the girl struggling in the water and ran inside to tell the mothers, Fonville continued. The children were believed to have been left alone for about three minutes. "They immediately ran downstairs, removed the child from the pool and started performing CPR," Fonville said. A neighbor who heard the commotion ran over to take over for CPR as 911 was called, he said. The girl was visiting the home, according to Fonville. A second child, either 1 or 2, was later found unconscious during a pool party in the 3500 block of Paintbrush Dawn Court, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said in a tweet. The adults "lost sight" of the child in a hot tub next to a pool. The child "went under for unknown amount time," the sheriff said. Both children were taken to Texas Children's Hospital in critical condition. BREAKING NEWS | ALERTS Find out first: Get breaking news sent directly to your inbox. See More Collapse The two incidents prompted Gonzalez to urge parents to be mindful of children at the pool. "For pool parties, don't assume everyone is watching, cause undoubtedly no one is," Gonzalez said. "Have a designated pool watcher to keep an eye on swimmers at all times. This should be a responsible adult who will not become distracted." nicole.hensley@chron.com Pasadena residents have the chance to help improve parks in their community through a project spearheaded by the nonprofit Houston Parks Board and involving the city and other entities. City residents can give input about how to make parks in the city healthier, more welcoming and accessible through a 15-minute, confidential online survey offered in English and Spanish. They also are invited June 25 to an initial community workshop for the Healthy Parks Plan. The meeting will be from 6-8 p.m. that Tuesday at PAL Gymnasium, 2910 Southmore Ave. The community has nearly 50 parks, but according to city officials, fewer than 54 percent of the more than 153,000 Pasadena residents have access to a park within a 10-minute walk from home. Evidence indicates that close-to-home parks help build social connections, reduce stress and depression, and lower rates of illness. The national nonprofit groups Trust for Public Land and the National Recreation and Parks Association recommend that everyone live within a 1/4 mile or 10-minute walk of a park, said Jed Aplaca, the citys parks and recreation director. Through this, it can be assessed where new parkland is needed, Aplaca said. City officials hope improved parks will attract other businesses and workers to the community, improve air and water quality, reduce heat and absorb flood waters. Partnering with the Houston Parks Board on the effort are the city of Pasadena and the architecture firm Asakura Robinson Co., with funding support from the Houston Endowment and Pasadena Vibrant Community, a program of MD Anderson. This partnership with the Houston Parks Board will take our vision to the next level, Mayor Jeff Wagner said in a statement. We want all our residents to have access to parks and green spaces whether its for exercise, quiet reflection or quality time with family and friends. Parks community workshop What: A meeting where Pasadena residents input about their priorities the Healthy Parks Plan, a project led by the nonprofit Houston Parks Board to make the city's city parks healthier, more welcoming and accessible. When: 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, June 25 Where: PAL Gymnasium, 2910 Southmore Ave., Pasadena Details: An online survey is available at www.pasadenahealthyparks.com/survey. See More Collapse The online survey asks residents questions such as how often they visit parks in the city, how they get to and use the parks and what factors prevent or discourage their use of parks. Other questions cover what programs and facilities people would like to see offered and what they see as priorities for funding. Through community engagement and data analysis, the plan aims to identify the best opportunities for new parks, park improvements, park programming, and park funding and maintenance. All of this information will be gathered together, analyzed and ultimately used for a master plan for the city of Pasadena to adopt as plans to move forward and provide healthy parks for the citizens of Pasadena, Aplaca said. The projects will take 12-18 months to complete, with the goal of finishing the work in the summer or fall of 2020, he said. Community engagement in Spanish and English also will include community workshops, interviews, focus groups, intercept surveys and a demographically representative telephone poll. Those who stay connected to the project through www.pasadenahealthyparks.com will have a chance to win a $50 cash card. tyler.johnson@chron.com As hurricane season gets underway, Pearland Office of Emergency Management coordinator Peter Martin says that preparedness doesnt just fall on governmental entities. Theres a personal responsibility element to this, he said, urging residents to be well-prepared. . They need to think about whether they can successfully shelter in their homes, if need be, he said.Or if they need to evacuate, they need to understand how to evacuate and where theyre going to go and have supplies in case its a long trip. Some of the supplies Martin suggests includes medication, water, food for several days and any items to meet special needs of family members such as children, the elderly and pets. Martin also noted that it would be wise to double-check the insurance policy on homes, vehicles and any other possessions. They need to understand what insurance they have and what insurance they need, he said. Folks need to make sure they have the right insurance and the right amount of insurance. They need to understand what their deductibles are and they need to have an emergency fund to cover those deductibles, to cover evacuation expenses and things of that nature. The final advice Martin gave is to simply be conscious of the weather. He said its important to stay informed through updates from the National Weather Service and local entities. Here in Pearland, and in Harris County, we have registration systems where you can sign up to get community alerts, he said. That will tell you if theres an emergency in or around your home or place of work. If we have something that we think is of urgent importance to public safety, well push that out on Pearland Alerts. For more information on how to prepare for hurricane season, visit the emergency preparedness link on the city of Pearlands website. Although the information refers to 2018, it is still valid for this season, Martin said. The city plans also plans to soon add a link to a emergency preparedness guide from Brazoria County, he said. tyler.johnson@chron.com Two groups in The Woodlands are gearing up to host the communitys first formal event dedicated to gun violence awareness. From 10 a.m. to noon June 8 at Northshore Park in The Woodlands, Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action have joined forces to put on a Wear Orange family event and blood drive. Jane Kelso Winter, a group leader for the local nonpartisan Moms Demand Action chapter, is a co-organizer for the event. Wear Orange is a national event dedicated to honoring survivors of gun violence. Were also trying to elevate the voices of Americans working to end gun violence, Winter said, explaining that the event began as a way to honor 15-year-old Hadiya Pendleton, who was shot and killed in Chicago just one week after performing at former President Barack Obamas second inaugural parade in 2013. Orange was Pendletons favorite color, so participants are encouraged to wear orange shirts the day of the event, which falls right after National Gun Violence Awareness Day. Last year, the Montgomery County participants drove down to Houstons event. But now, as their group has grown, Winter said it was time to step up and host their own event in a more central location for their members from all over Montgomery County. It shows that there are people here who support this in their own neighborhood. This is a very serious topic, but Im excited to get the message out to people who may not come to our meetings, Winter said. At the event, theyll have stories from survivors and speakers, poetry readings and visual memorial displays. Volunteers will also be there to talk with attendees about how to safely lock and store their weapons as well as how issues like domestic violence and suicide are connected to gun violence. Just a little bit of awareness may save some lives, Winter said. The group chose to have Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center come out to the park for the blood drive portion of the event. A blood drive seemed appropriate, Winter said, for two reasons. Blood donations significantly decrease during the summer, and also gunshot wound victims need 10 times as much blood when receiving a blood transfusion. (They also) are five times more likely to need a blood transfusion than other patients, Winter said. One of the Students Demand Action Montgomery County group leaders, Rebecca Fox, is helping to organize the event. Her group is focused on preparing childrens activities for the day, such as arts and crafts and games. Fox said shes looking forward to a fun day learning about ways to prevent gun violence with her community. I am very excited to be part of planning this event as the first Wear Orange ( in The Woodlands. I think it will bring a lot of attention and start a lot of conversation in our town with new people that dont know a lot about gun violence or dont know how they could get involved, Fox said. Community partners such as local religious leaders and school district police are to attend to speak or answer questions. Joining in a colorful way is the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, which is to be lit up orange the day of the event. Also in partnership, The Woodlands Township board of directors recently passed a proclamation that makes the first Friday in June National Gun Violence Awareness Day in the township. jane.stueckemann@chron.com For two and half years, Mexican drug kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman has lived in solitary confinement-with nearly no ability to communicate with the outside world. Now, with Guzman allegedly showing symptoms of distress and sleep deprivation, his defense team had several requests for U.S. District Judge Brian Cogan earlier this month: two hours of outdoor exercise every week, the same food and drink as other inmates, permission to buy six bottles of water a week and earplugs. "This deprivation of sunlight and fresh air, over an excessive 27-month period, is causing psychological scarring," CNN reported the letter said. It called the conditions "cruel and unusual punishment" in violation of the Eighth Amendment. Federal prosecutors were not convinced. According to new court filings obtained by CNN, the government opposed all of the above and alleged the request was part of a ploy to escape from prison or silence cooperating witnesses. Jeffrey Lichtman, one of the lawyers on Guzman's defense team, called the prosecution's response, due Thursday, "literally hysterical." The high-profile prisoner has had no prison infractions since his arrest, he said, "yet now, by simply asking for some bottled water and some fresh air he is accused of plotting a daring prison escape despite zero supporting evidence." In February, federal prosecutors secured a conviction against the Sinaloa Cartel boss for running the drug trafficking enterprise. During the three-month trial, witnesses - including his former bodyguard - testified about horrific murders both ordered and carried out by Guzman. On one occasion, he allegedly shot the rival-cartel member and then buried the victim alive. Guzman, 61, faces multiple life sentences; he will be sentenced in federal court June 25. Until then, the government requested Guzman be held in restrictive detention. "I expect the Bureau of Prisons would be concerned about El Chapo's communication access; his phone calls, email access and letters are likely to be more closely monitored than the average prison there for federal drug possession," Deborah Golden, staff attorney at the Human Rights Defense Center, told The Washington Post in February. Indeed, Guzman's conviction led to widespread speculation he would be housed at ADX, the administrative super-maximum prison in Florence, Colorado. Guzman's requests are being scrutinized because he has broken out of prisons in the past. He escaped from two maximum-security Mexican prisons - in 2001 with the assistance of prison guards and in 2015 through a tunnel underneath the shower in his jail cell. "An escape via rooftop, using a helicopter, or any related means would be elementary by comparison," the prosecutor wrote in his response to the court. Adding to the government's concern is the unsuccessful, attempted jail break in 1981, where an inmate arranged a helicopter-escape from the recreation area of a Lower Manhattan prison. The defense has a week to reply. Guzman is not permitted to have unmonitored phone calls or receive mail, Lichtman said, and his attorneys are the only people he can communicate with. "Because an inmate once attempted to escape the MCC 30 years ago via helicopter, Joaquin Guzman is planning the same?" he quipped on Saturday. "Which one of his lawyers passed the message to his co-conspirators to plan this escape?" HONG KONG An all-white, albino panda has appeared in a natural reserve in China, the first of its kind to be documented, an expert said this week. The panda was photographed in April with an infrared camera at the Wolong National Nature Reserve in the southwestern province of Sichuan, local authorities said in a statement. Li Sheng, who belongs to the Species Survival Commission of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, said it was the first recorded image of a wild giant panda that is fully white. (There have been sightings of brown-and-white pandas in Qinling, a mountainous region in the northwestern Chinese province of Shaanxi.) The white pandas appearance is caused by albinism, a rare genetically inherited condition that prevents the normal synthesis of melanin, resulting in white hair or pale skin, as well as reddish eyes. Giant pandas are one of eight bear species, and albinism has been recorded in many other species of bears, though rarely. I personally think its quite random for it to be discovered, since albinism manifests itself so infrequently, Li said in a telephone interview. This was recorded just in time. Aside from sensitivity to sunlight, albinism does not usually have a negative effect on the anatomy or life functions of animals, but their unusual appearance can make them easier to detect in the wild. Based on the photo, albinism has not affected the life of the white panda much, said Li, who is also a researcher at Peking University. It looks quite well, quite strong. Duan Zhaogang, the Communist Party secretary of the Wolong district, said in the statement that the reserve would increase its use of infrared cameras to track the growth and movements of the panda, which is estimated to be 1 or 2 years old, and its potential offspring. (The mutation, which comes from a recessive gene, can be passed down.) Wild pandas can be difficult to study because they mostly live alone, often in remote areas. To facilitate research, a Chinese conservation center has developed a facial recognition app that can distinguish one panda from another, the state news media said this month. Nearly 10,000 images of pandas from a database have been analyzed since 2017. There are about 1,900 giant pandas living in the wild, according to a 2016 report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Citing an increase in the panda population that was credited to the Chinese government, the group changed the pandas conservation status at that time from endangered to vulnerable. But Chinese officials opposed the move, arguing that pandas still struggle to reproduce in fragmented patches of wilderness. Also this month, a rare Asiatic black bear was caught on camera in the Demilitarized Zone that separates North and South Korea. Flora and fauna thrive in the region, also known as the DMZ, because it is rarely disturbed by humans. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Hank Whitman, the former Texas Ranger in charge of the Department of Family and Protective Services, announced Tuesday his plans to leave the agency in June, a move that comes after weeks of insider speculation about changes at the top of the agency charged with overseeing protection of children and the elderly. Gov. Greg Abbott now faces the difficult task of finding a new leader for a tough job. It has been a great honor to work with you, Whitman said in a video emailed to department workers. I can honestly say that protecting the unprotected with you has been the most satisfying time of my professional life. Though his appointment as commissioner was set to end in September, Whitman framed his early departure as a retirement and did not offer any insight into his reasons for leaving. He was the eighth commissioner to oversee the troubled agency since 2004. He had one of the most difficult and thankless jobs in the entire state, said Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston. If he only managed to keep the agency afloat and not sink any lower, that in itself would be a miracle but I think the fact is that he took the agency from a place of poor reputation and made it a much more professional and a much more responsive agency to the needs of the state. The governor similarly offered praise for Whitmans work, crediting him with making fundamental changes that resulted in better outcomes for children. Because of his leadership, Abbott said in a statement, DFPS is left better than he found it, and I extend my sincerest gratitude for his decades of dedicated service to the state of Texas. The retired lawman took over the post in mid-2016, bringing in more than three decades of law enforcement experience and a law-and-order approach even as the Child Protective Services division struggled with hefty caseloads, high turnover and multiple high-profile child deaths. At the same time, the agency was still managing fallout from a long-running court case in which a federal judge ordered a complete overhaul of the states broken long-term foster care system. When then-Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner Chris Traylor selected Whitman to take over the post, Abbott heralded the military veteran and erstwhile Rangers chief as an agent of change. Our children are too important to suffer through the challenges theyve faced, he said at the time. Ive insisted on overhauling a broken system, and I applaud the leadership changes that will provide a new direction and focus that puts protecting children first. Traylor, meanwhile, promised Whitman would look to overhaul the operations of CPS and rebuild structures that are failing and improve the systems that are working. Shortly after Whitman took over, Abbott named CPS reform a top priority. The Legislature in 2017 pumped millions of dollars into the system to give child protection workers hefty raises in an effort to stem the high turnover. State data shows the effort has been somewhat successful; turnover among child protection workers dropped sharply that fiscal year, before it ticked up slightly a year later. But at the same time, more than 90 children died in Texas last year from abuse a six-year high, according to a state fatality report. The agency said at the time the report drove home the the continued need to make progress reaching families in all of those areas because we know they are major drivers of child maltreatment. Under Whitmans tenure, the CPS division has continued to land in the spotlight both for failing to remove kids from dangerous homes and for wrongfully taking them from their families. In 2017, the death of 3-year-old Sherin Mathews sparked an outcry after CPS failed to remove the toddler even after a child abuse pediatrician flagged several bone fractures as possible signs of abuse. Months later, the girls body was found in a culvert under the road of a Dallas suburb. Her adoptive father was charged with her murder. Then last year, the agency took heat and was slapped with a record $127,000 sanction for wrongfully removing a Tomball couples children even after an outside medical expert said the boys injuries could be explained. Afterward, parents Melissa and Dillon Bright went to court to fight for sanctions against the agency, and then-Juvenile Court Judge Mike Schneider ordered the creation of a training program for workers and supervisors in the Houston region. More recently, CPS has fielded criticism for its handling of the case of Maleah Davis, a Harris County girl who suffered a head injury in August and was flagged as a possible physical abuse victim. Though the agency removed Davis and her siblings at first, a judge approved the childrens return home in February. Then in May, the 4-year-old was reported missing, and her mothers boyfriend has been charged with evidence tampering. The child remains missing. While the agency is mostly under scrutiny over child protection efforts, DFPS also investigates elder abuse. That work came under fire in the last year as well, when a state audit found that in at least 250 cases, state workers didnt regularly check in with clients to ensure their safety. The agency blamed the findings on high turnover. Now, its not clear who might replace Whitman or when an appointment could be announced. And, despite improvements under Whitmans administration including the shift to make DFPS a standalone agency any newcomer will still face a host of ongoing problems. I dont envy anyone who has to fill his shoes, Wu said. Hes by no means a miracle worker, but he has managed to bring about vast improvements in the states child protective services. Allie Morris contributed to this report. keri.blakinger@chron.com A Harris County judge on Tuesday denied a motion to dismiss a lawsuit against a Houston man accused of making false statements in a criminal case that sent his former in-laws to prison for aiding his ex-wife in the kidnapping of their child. An attorney representing the man tried invoking a First Amendment protection statute under the Texas Citizens Participation Act, arguing that the Houston father used free speech in the realm of public interest during the trial. While lawyer Alan Daughtry was unsuccessful, he said he plans to appeal state District Judge Dedra Davis decision. Are we disappointed? Yes, Daughtry said. But you know, we think weve got good arguments; we think the records really good. And frankly, the case will get shut down until the Court of Appeals rules. The former in-laws, Carlos and Jemima Guimaraes, brought the lawsuit against Christopher Brann in February, alleging that he defrauded the court in their trial. They were sentenced in December for their role in kidnapping Nicolas Brann, who is now 9 and living in Brazil with his mother. The elder Brann shared joint custody of Nicolas with his ex-wife, Marcelle Guimaraes. She took their boy, then 3 years old, to Brazil for a family wedding in July 2013 and never returned. The wealthy Brazilian grandparents sat in on the hearing on Tuesday but declined to speak to reporters. They were released from federal custody earlier this year. 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 Daughtry accused the Guimaraes family of essentially re-trying the criminal case in a civil court, which their attorney, Jeff Diamant, denied. There is no way to have a do-over in the case, he said. They should at least get what they deserve for having gone through it. In the lawsuit, the couple alleges that Brann was the perpetrator of domestic violence against their daughter Marcelle. The suit also contends that Brann was addicted to sex and pornography. WALKER COUNTY: DA dismisses case against Texas parole official accused of skipping inmate interviews Witnesses at the jury trial said that Jemima Guimaraes helped her daughter get a job at the school where she was a director. The grandfather paid for tuition for the boy at the school, and also bought a series of return tickets for the mother and son, which prosecutors said was part of a cover-up. The couple was convicted in May 2018. The grandfather was sentenced to three months in federal prison, while the grandmother was sentenced to one month in the federal facility. Theyre serving one year of supervised release. Marcelle Guimaraes, who is living in the Brazilian city of Salvador, is considered a fugitive by the U.S. government. Houston air travelers might have reason for hope. Last year, William P. Hobby Airport and George Bush Intercontinental Airport showed major improvement compared to other major U.S. airport in regards to seasonal flight delays. On HoustonChronicle.com: Harris County Constable's Office deputy rushed to hospital after being struck by car on Westpark Tollway A new study from CompareCards analyzed ten years worth of data (2009 to 2018) from the U.S. Department of Transportation in order to determine which of the 50 busiest airports in the United States "tend to suffer the most frequent delays in the summertime." San Antonio International Airport also finished in the top 10. The company's site proceeded to rank the best and worst airports for on-time summer travel and also ranked which airports saw the most improvements from one year to the next. Above, you can see where See where Houston's Bush International Airport and William P. Hobby Airport rank among U.S. airports saw the most improvements from one year to the next in terms of on-time summer travel (per that comparecards.com study). Peter Dawson is a digital reporter in Houston. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, houstonchronicle.com. | Peter.Dawson@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. A girl's 16th birthday celebration was filled with fun and lighthearted jokes when she and her new friend, a Spring High School sophomore, went swimming in Matagorda Bay. As they swam on Sunday afternoon, the girl and her friend, Joseph Thomas, ran into trouble in the bay's rough waters The last time anyone saw Thomas alive, he was saving the girl's life before he drowned. Both teens became trapped in a strong rip current. His friend's mother screamed when she saw them without flotation devices. The girls father and mother jumped in the water to save them, but the current was too powerful. TRAGEDY IN MATAGORDA: Body found in search for teen swimmer at Matagorda Beach as Coast Guard continues separate search Eddie Dolan, his friend's father, said he swam about 30 yards from the shore when he almost lost sight of Thomas and his daughter. "Just before I couldn't see them in the water any longer with the waves, I saw him push her away," said Dolan, who asked that his daughter not be identified. "That was the last I saw of him." Dolan said the waves carried his daughter back to shore.The U.S. Coast Guard found Thomas' body in the area on Monday, leaving his own family devastated and Dolan's family stricken with guilt from the tragedy. Dolan said his wife nearly drowned and is still recovering in a hospital. "There was just nothing we could do," Dolan said, adding that Thomas was "one of the most warm and selfless people" he's ever met. Sixteen-year-old Thomas was one of three people who drowned in Gulf area beaches during the Memorial Day weekend when visitors encountered rough surf and unusually strong rip currents. Authorities found the body of 29-year-old Jose Hernandez around 8 a.m. Sunday in San Luis Pass, known to be a dangerous area to swim. On Tuesday, the body of a 17-year old boy who went missing near Surfside Beach was found about 4 miles north of where he was last seen. He has not been identified. Thomas' father, James Thomas Jr., said his son's heroic actions fall in line with his son's caring nature at Spring High School where on Tuesday afternoon hundreds attended a vigil for their classmate. Zephyr Glover, who had her first date with Thomas last Friday, told the grieving students: "At least he died not in vain, but he died a hero." It wasn't hard to spot him walking down the hallways of the school. He carried his acoustic guitar with him everywhere between classes and occasionally played for special needs students during fourth period, the father said. "He played music for the kids, but most of the time he would just identify and work with them," James Thomas said. Outside school, Thomas constantly wrote songs and performed around Spring. He played at The Blue Giraffe and Trilogy Brew Coffee shop, honing his talent in front of an audience. He was also a familiar face at the Guitar Center on Interstate 45.That's where he met his friend two weeks before she invited him to the beach with her family for her birthday. The pair quickly bonded after singing together in a guitar room at the store. "He was just a musically inclined kid," James Thomas said. "He was very gifted, very creative and he would write music incessantly." James Thomas described his son as a deep thinker who showed an unusual amount of intellect for his age. His son was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 12 years old, but he went through treatment and was doing well when he died, his father said. Joseph Thomas had been taking advanced classes at school and hoped to one day become a musical therapist. "The family is devastated," his father said. "This is an absolute unexpected shock... I told my wife just this morning that Joseph is like a comet. He just burst on the scene, glowed and now he's gone." Sandy Priska, the co-founder of Ridgemont Academy in Spring, said she met the younger Thomas in September when he accompanied a student to an open mic event at the school. "He came in that day and did not know a stranger. Everybody took to him and he performed and all of the teens had a great time," she said in a Facebook message. "You meet certain people in your life that leave a lasting impression, and I would have to say that he was one of those people." Hundreds of Spring High School students attended Tuesday's vigil , their sniffles echoing throughout the large cafeteria. Dozens lined up at the microphone to share stories and memories about the teen, using the same words to describe him: trustworthy, warm, and talented, with an infectious energy. "He could walk into a room, say one thing, and everyone would be in a good mood," said Maegan Pradarits. Joseph's magic was his guitar. Students shared stories about how he played his guitar to introduce himself to new people, to exit a room and to get someone to stop crying. Multiple students talked about how Joseph helped them improve their own musical skills, challenging them to write the best lyrics and craft the best melodies. "Joseph was more than words can describe as a person," said his sister, Jamie, 18, a Spring High senior, at the vigil. Massarah Mikati contributed to this report. 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. A taxi driver was taken to a hospital early Tuesday after he was shot by a passenger in southwest Houston, according to police. The driver is expected to survive with a gunshot wound to the leg. The shooter remains at large, police said. A Harris County Precinct 5 Constable's Office deputy was recuperating at home Wednesday after being struck by a car while conducting speed enforcement on the Westpark Tollway a day earlier. The deputy, David Dickson, was next to the eastbound entrance ramp from West Houston Center Boulevard when a car driving up the ramp ran off the roadway and struck him around 9:50 a.m., according to Assistant Chief Terry Allbritton. The deputy was thrown from the motorcycle and unable to radio for help. A pair of toddlers who nearly drowned during separate Memorial Day incidents near Katy remain in "extremely critical" condition at local hospitals Tuesday morning as officials urge parents and caretakers to be cautious this swimming season. The first girl, 2, was found in a family pool 4900 block of Windcross Court around 5:40 p.m. The child and her friend went into the pool unattended as their mothers were inside getting their towels, Harris County Sheriff's Office Lt. Kim Fonville said at the home. The second girl, also 2, was found unconscious in a hot tub during a pool party in the 3500 block of Paintbrush Dawn Court around 8:30 p.m. The adults "lost sight" of the child before finding her unconscious in the hot tub, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said. The two close encounters Monday come after four children drowned already this year in Harris County, according to HCSO. A 2-year-old boy died Jan. 29 after making his way into a pool at an Atascocita home in the 16800 block of Fowler Pines. Then on April 21, a 12-year-old girl drowned in a Cypress backyard pool in the 12200 of Hedgedown Drive. Earlier in May, two young children drowned. A 6-year-old boy died in a community pool near Katy in the 24500 of Ceremonial Lane. The next day, a 2-year-old girl was found dead after drowning at Sylvan Beach Park near La Porte. So far in 2019, 21 children including the four in Harris County have drowned in Texas. The youngest being a 6-week-old baby boy who died in a bathtub, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. The oldest was a 17-year-old male who drowned in a lake in Smith County. Gonzalez urged caution for parents and caretakers around pools this summer. "For pool parties, don't assume everyone is watching, (because) undoubtedly no one is," Gonzalez said. "Have a designated pool watcher to keep an eye on swimmers at all times. This should be a responsible adult who will not become distracted." Ten children drowned in Harris County in 2018, while there were 91 drownings statewide that same year, according to Texas DFPS. Nicole Hensley contributed to this report. 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 While on patrol Monday, a Bexar County Sheriffs deputy discovered 11 undocumented immigrants believed to be victims of a human trafficking ring, officials said. The deputy was on patrol near Rittiman Road and Goldfield on the Northeast Side when he observed a large group of men and women standing near a semi-trailer truck. Several of them scattered when they saw the deputy and others hid in nearby shrubbery, prompting the deputy to investigate. Authorities determined that all of the individuals were likely undocumented migrants from Mexico who had not been given food or water in more than two days. READ ALSO: Brothers plead guilty in Del Rio in immigrant sex-trafficking case Its a tragedy that these folks come here looking for a better life and, quite frankly, theyre preyed upon and taken advantage of and theyre forced into modern day slavery, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said in a statement. Authorities searched the truck and briefly detained the driver before releasing him, cleared of wrongdoing for now, a sheriffs office press release stated. The driver is a U.S. citizen who appears to be a registered sex offender from another state, officials said. The group of migrants was transported to a U.S. Homeland Security Department field office for further investigation and to determine their needs. Homeland Security will lead the investigation. Salazar said several of the deputies who responded to the incident used their own money to purchase food and water for the group. They also provided shoes to one young woman who was barefoot on the hot pavement. Salazar praised the deputy who initially spotted the group. There is no doubt in my mind that the deputys actions helped saved the lives of several of these persons, he said. A tragedy could well have been averted. Converse animal lovers will have to wait a few more weeks before they get to tour and use the citys first-ever Animal Care and Control facility. Converse City Council heard from Mark Wohlfarth, owner of the Sabinal Group, the construction firm building the 9,178-square-foot facility, at its May 21 meeting. After reviewing some of the past issues and remaining work, Wohlfarth gave the city a new target opening date of June 17. The animal care facility was one of four buildings that Converse voters approved in a November 2015 bond issue, along with a new city hall, new fire station, and a library extension. The shelter, at FM1516 and Upper Seguin Road, is the only structure yet to open. When construction began the city spoke of a January 2019 completion date. That date came and went, Mayor Al Suarez said, replaced by statements of mid-March and mid-May. When Im out in the public, Ive gotten bombarded with requests, What happened to our animal shelter? Suarez said. We had to bring you guys in so we could explain where were at, and whats going on with the facility. Wohlfarth said bad weather, Texas Department of Transportations expansion of FM 1516 alongside the property, and issues with the original site plan contributed to the delays. We had a change order for a lift station and other change orders. And its been raining off and on for the last four months, and its just killing our site, Wohlfarth said. The construction firm owner counted off the remaining work, including sidewalks and paving, and gave time allotments for each. So within the next three weeks, that site will be 100 percent. And that would take us to June 17, Wohlfarth said. Obviously its all contingent on rain. City Manager Le Ann Piatt told council that the city has already hired its facility manager and confirmed that the building is 99.9 percent complete, with a few little touch-ups. The city has already ordered furniture for the facility. Suarez reiterated that the city has no issues with the quality of work with the three other structures, all completed by Sabinal. We can work with that (June 17). Its just the delays and timing that weve had to deal with, the mayor said. Piatt said the city wants to move in and become operational before scheduling and hosting a grand opening. We want animals in there, so people can take them home with them, she said. jflinn@express-news.net Pegatron to Invest Up to $1B in Indonesia Chip Plant Published: 28 May 2019 by Chelsey Drysdale by Chelsey Drysdale TAIPEI Pegatron has signed a letter of intent to invest $695 million to $1 billion in an Indonesian factory to assemble iPhone chips, according to reports. The company plans to partner with PT Sat Nusapersada to assemble the chips at the plant. In the long-term, Pegatron may assemble MacBook components there as well. On May 13, state Senate Minority Leader John Flanagan did something he rarely does: He sat with his conference during that days Senate session. Typically he spends a tremendous amount of time on the phone, as he puts it, but there were two reasons to be out on the Senate floor that Monday. The first was a bipartisan resolution before the chamber recognizing the life and work of Leonard Spano, a prominent Republican politician in Westchester County who died this year. A resolution on the floor in Spanos honor presented an occasion for Flanagan to speak about his own outlook toward public life. My mother a number of years ago gave me a picture of my father, when my father first started in the Legislature, and the poem is about your name, said Flanagan, referring to a poem printed below a framed photo of his father, former Assemblyman John J. Flanagan. Its basically how a father in this case passes his name to his son and the name was in good stead and it was intact at the time it was given to you and that the best thing you could do is continue that legacy. As that days session wound down, the Republican conference attempted a parliamentary maneuver with a bill on the floor that would require that death certificates list any specific opioids responsible for fatal overdoses. Republicans supported the uncontroversial legislation, but they wanted to make a political statement. The GOP senators tried to tack on the Born Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, which has no chance of passing the Democratic-controlled chamber. After an attempt to attach it to the opioid legislation was rejected, Deputy Minority Leader Joseph Griffo requested that state Sen. Pamela Helming have a chance to speak. If the bill on the floor required more reporting on opioid deaths, Helming said, why not about babies who died soon after being born alive during an abortion? The goal with both bills is to sustain life, Helming said. Helmings amendment was swiftly voted down on a party line vote and the unamended opioid legislation passed 60-0. Not a single member of the @NYSenDems voted to protect a baby born alive during abortion, GOP Senate spokeswoman Candice Giove tweeted. In past years, when Republicans controlled the chamber, they could have used such an amendment as leverage in negotiations with the Democratic-controlled Assembly and Gov. Andrew Cuomo. But the balance of power shifted dramatically after the 2018 elections, when Republicans lost the state Senate, their last hold on statewide power in New York. That it happened on Flanagans watch was a blow to his legacy, and it was compounded by a string of political and personal challenges, including the embarrassing intraparty effort to oust him from the leadership and his personal battle with alcohol. While he ultimately held on to his post as conference leader, its not clear how he can return his party to power in Albany. Democrats are becoming increasingly dominant in state politics, and the Republicans downstate political base has shrunk. Interviews with a dozen GOP senators and party insiders suggest that Flanagans position as leader remains secure. But the prospects of him ever becoming majority leader again appear remote. The presidential race will likely boost turnout in 2020, and higher turnout historically benefits Democratic candidates. President Donald Trump could energize some Republican voters, but anti-Trump backlash is likely to spur Democrats to show up at the polls as well. And if the state Senate GOP falls short next year, theyll have little say in the next round of redistricting and could be gerrymandered into minority status for years, if not decades. Flanagan is not situated to rebuild the Republican strength in New York in the current environment. The best he can do is hold on where hes at then theres going to be a battle to the death in 2020. Gerald Benjamin, political science professor at SUNY New Paltz Democrats already have a massive statewide voter registration advantage and the long-term demographic trends are in their favor, according to Gerald Benjamin, a political science professor at SUNY New Paltz. Flanagan is not situated to rebuild the Republican strength in New York in the current environment, Benjamin said. The best he can do is hold on where hes at then theres going to be a battle to the death in the year 2020. Its the so-called battle to the death for the future of a Republican Senate. But its occurring in a presidential year with higher turnout in a mobilized anti-Trump constituency. Flanagan has not given up, despite the odds against him. I believe we are in a situation thats not going to be much different than it was in 2009 and 2010, he said, when the Democrats took over the state Senate and ran the state into fiscal ruin within less than two years. Zach Williams Following their shellacking in 2018, Republicans have ruminated over their losses and reflected on how to win again in New York, a state where they have not won a statewide election since 2002. Incoming state Republican Party Chairman Nicholas Langworthy has talked about garnering more small-dollar donations, winning local races, recruiting more female candidates, attracting younger voters and, eventually, electing a Republican governor. What hasnt happened in the past is take a game plan to our contributors, Langworthy told the New York Post. Well reengage, reinvest to find a way forward and have a plan and change the culture in the state of New York. While the state party is altering its approach, the most visible efforts by GOP senators to regain the majority have largely consisted of opposing what the Democrats are doing. Does the Senate Republican conferences chances hinge on the other party screwing up? We should never assume a position that theyre bad, or theyre not doing things right or properly, Flanagan said. Were different than the people who are in the majority now. We stand for things that are different than the majority stands for now. Yet Flanagan argued that its just a matter of time before the Democratic majority falls apart. You see the infighting and the rift within the Democratic conference, he said. Flanagan argued that disorder will break out among the rank-and-file Democrats, and progressive policies will turn off swing voters on Long Island and in the Hudson Valley who have largely decided control of the Senate in recent years. Republicans are depending on Democratic overreach and division to once again bring the GOP back into the majority, as happened in 2010 when Democrats last ran the Senate. Democrats had won a narrow margin in the 2008 election, but their brief time in power was marked by a chaotic Senate coup and the passage of controversial legislation that ultimately doomed the partys chances of keeping the majority in 2010. Ive seen this movie before, Flanagan said. Today, its the Senate GOP that is in disarray. Veteran senators like John DeFrancisco, William Larkin and John Bonacic retired in 2018, a year when opposition to Trump propelled Democrats to victory. Republicans Kemp Hannon, Elaine Phillips and Carl Marcellino were ousted, decimating the once vaunted Long Island Nine that had dominated the state Senate. More defections appear likely. State Sen. Chris Jacobs launched a primary campaign against Rep. Chris Collins, who narrowly won reelection last year despite being charged with securities fraud, and another Republican senator, Robert Ortt, is also among those rumored to be potential primary challengers to Collins. There have also been calls for state Sen. Fred Akshar to resign following a sex scandal, though Flanagan has said that he stands behind him. Were actively recruiting candidates right now, Flanagan said. Though he did not offer any new names of who might run for the state Senate, he confirmed at least one potential comeback candidate former state Sen. Martin Golden of Brooklyn. Our options are open, said Golden, who has not made a final decision about seeking his old seat. Well see what happens. The elephant in the room is Trump, who could bolster some down-ballot Republicans in New York while hurting others. Flanagan has had an uneasy relationship with the president, whom he endorsed in 2016 only after Trump became the Republican nominee. Flanagan praises Trump for a good economy but distances himself from other parts of Trumps record. The stock market is essentially at an all-time high; unemployment, thats essentially an all-time low, Flanagan said. I get the things that are being said about the president. I dont have to agree with them. In early May, the Republican leader staged a press conference in the hallway outside his office to go on the attack over two high-profile bills that Democrats planned to pass. One was an effort to allow convicted felons to serve on juries, which gave Flanagan a pretext to talk about Judith Clark, the recently paroled 69-year-old driver in a deadly 1981 robbery of a Brinks armored truck. Law enforcement groups and the families of people killed in the robbery had protested her parole, and Senate Republicans were eager to channel the frustration by touting their victims justice agenda, a package of bills that Republicans released in response to Democrats criminal justice reforms, such as ending cash bail. Were doing more pro-criminal bill of rights bills that are out there, Flanagan told City & State separately in an interview. Its day after day after day after day. I could give you chapter and verse on things that were wrong with the budget. The second piece of legislation on the agenda that day aimed to change state law so that individual tax returns could be sent to congressional committees that requested them essentially an effort to obtain Trumps tax returns. Its interesting that the only discussion about taxes by the Democratic majority is to try and get the presidents taxes, Flanagan told reporters gathered outside his office. We should be spending our time worrying about what we can do for New Yorkers. With just 22 seats in the 63-seat Senate, GOP senators could not stop the bills, but they did make some noise. Sarah Blesener The walls of Flanagans office pay tribute to his father, a genial and physically imposing assemblyman who represented Long Island in the 1970s and 1980s. One photo on the wall shows a middle-aged father and a preteen son sitting next to each other in the Assembly chamber. On the opposite wall is a frame filled with campaign literature, including a pamphlet where the elder Flanagans name reads proudly next to the name of President Richard Nixon. The older Flanagan, a former high school biology teacher, was first elected to the Assembly in 1972, in part on a platform touting his commitment to environmental issues. He earned a reputation as a policy wonk on issues like education. His brand of politics placed him more toward the political center at a time when the GOP was moving in a more conservative direction nationwide. I dont like this term per se, but my father was very forward-thinking, the younger Flanagan said. He would have been considered progressive in what I consider a good sense. Flanagan, who would tag along on trips to the state Capitol, said that his father was one of the most formidable debaters in the Republican conference at that time. People would tell me when I got here, Your fathers a legendary debater, my God, he always knew his stuff, Flanagan recalled. I would joke around like, Listen, I was on the receiving end on that. A 1979 battle over funding for what would become the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan was one of many times where Flanagan used his intelligence and wit against the Democrats. He was someone you would never welcome having to debate because he could be very effective and very sharp, said Assemblyman Richard Gottfried, who was first elected in 1970. While the bill passed the Assembly by a comfortable margin, Republicans scored political points by asserting that the convention center would place undue burdens on residents outside New York City because state money would be used to fund it. The elder Flanagans promising legislative career ended in tragedy on Sept. 27, 1986, while the 50-year-old was out jogging with his wife and son at the track at Old Field Junior High School in Greenlawn. He collapsed and was pronounced dead at Huntington Hospital. His son was working at International Paper, a paper manufacturer, at the time while finishing his law degree at Touro Law Center. After he gave a eulogy at his fathers funeral, Republican leaders saw his political potential. It was very eloquent, heartfelt, not a dry eye in the house, said Gyory, who heard accounts of the funeral from others. They all felt that if it was him on the ballot, with the feelings towards the father and the family, hed be almost impossible to beat in a special election and in fact he was. The younger Flanagan entered the Assembly in the 1987 freshman class that included several future leaders in state politics, including Thomas DiNapoli, who went on to become state comptroller, and Joseph Crowley, who rose through the ranks in Congress. Flanagan followed in his fathers footsteps by rising through the state ranks and cultivating a reputation as an education policy wonk. But after his first attempt at leading a conference fell short by one vote to Assemblyman Charles Nesbitt in 2002, his ambitions turned toward the Senate, where he won a seat later that year. He took his time, rising slowly through the steps until lightning struck. He had the long relationships that in some cases spanned two generations of Flanagans (and) his positioning to be a consensus choice was the result of a long service in the Legislature. Lawrence Levy, former Newsday political columnist At the time, Joseph Bruno was Senate majority leader, but the upstate lawmaker would resign in 2008 after being indicted on federal corruption charges. Though he would eventually be acquitted, Bruno was replaced by then-Sen. Dean Skelos of Long Island, giving the downstate GOP contingent the upper hand in the historical geographical divide within the party. Following the Democrats tumultuous, two-year period controlling the chamber in 2009-10, downstate Republicans were further empowered when the party resumed control. Republicans eventually needed the Independent Democratic Conference a breakaway group of mostly downstate Democrats to form a majority in 2013. When Skelos was hit with federal corruption charges of his own in 2015, Flanagan had the chance that he had been waiting for his whole career: leading a legislative conference. The years he spent cultivating relationships throughout the state as an assemblyman and state senator paid off. He took his time, rising slowly through the steps until lightning struck, said Lawrence Levy, the executive dean at the National Center for Suburban Studies at Hofstra University. He had the long relationships that in some cases spanned two generations of Flanagans (and) his positioning to be a consensus choice not just on Long Island but around the state was the result of a long service in the Legislature. John was around Long Island and all the politics for a very long time. But he only got a chance to make his mark in the last few years and that was cut short by the loss of the majority. Bruce Gyory, a political science professor at the University at Albany Yet once Flanagan finally reached the pinnacle, he wasnt able to hold on for long. John was around Long Island, and all the politics for a very long time, said Bruce Gyory, an political science professor at the University at Albany and a Democratic political consultant. But he only got a chance to make his mark in the last few years and that was cut short by the loss of the majority. Photo courtesy of John Flanagan Gun control activists were swarming Flanagans office. He was on their list of elected officials to target on their lobbying visit to the state Capitol on a recent Tuesday afternoon. Yet no one seemed to recognize the lanky Long Islander as he slipped out the front door to his office down the hall from the Senate chamber. It was just minutes until the annual Police Officers Memorial begins across the street, and Flanagan was eager to keep up appearances. Ive got to pay my respects, he said. In past years, Flanagan had a prime speaking slot at the annual event, which memorializes law enforcement personnel who died in the past year. Sixty-three names will be etched into a black granite memorial wall in Empire State Plaza. Their names will be read before an audience of elected officials, union leaders and police officers and their families. It is a full house this year as everyone crams into The Egg, an event space on Empire State Plaza. After Flanagan entered, Griffo, his top lieutenant, nodded from the stairs to the left where he stood alongside other Republican legislators in a room filled with hundreds of local law enforcement officers and their families. There were 31 chairs at the front for the likes of Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, state Sen. John Brooks a Long Island Democrat representing Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Patrick Lynch, the president of the New York City Police Benevolent Association. But there was no seat for Flanagan. He heads up the stairs, mingles with members of the police color guard and tried to find a place to stand. It was another reminder of how things have changed for Flanagan over the course of the past year. There was the loss of the Senate majority. There was the post-election leadership challenge from Catharine Young that revealed dissent among the ranks. And then there was the drinking the led him to check into rehab a few days before Christmas last year. I wouldnt isolate it to any one thing, he told City & State when asked why he decided to seek treatment. Considering that his own father had died young, the 58-year-old Flanagan said it became more obvious after the election that the time had come to take better care of himself. Somebody finds himself at a point where youre just breathing a little harder, I feel like I put on 15 or 20 pounds, he said. Sometimes you may have a colleague or a friend that says, How you feeling. Whats going on? Flanagan would miss the first month of the session, and returned to a very different state Senate. New York Republicans had hit rock bottom as a party and there is no easy path out of the political wilderness. With the menacing prospect of Democratic-led redistricting on the horizon, Flanagan is leaning on the one source of strength that his political rivals could never take away from him: his father. The former assemblyman continues to be a role model, hero, all that kind of stuff, Flanagan said. Thats never changed. Long Island isnt short on political clout. The region has its share of high-profile New York power brokers, from Rep. Pete King to state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli. The island long held outsized sway in the state Senate, with Republican leaders like Dean Skelos and John Flanagan controlling the upper house in recent years and upsets on the island paving the way for Democrats to seize control of the chamber in 2018. The elected executives of Nassau and Suffolk counties hailing from different parties at times have been important allies of the governor. Other politicians members of Congress, state lawmakers, county legislators and town supervisors all play pivotal roles as well. Thats why were doubling the length of this list and bolstering it with top elected officials and high-ranking government employees, who were all left off last years Long Island Power 50. Weve reached out to insiders and experts to compile this list of local movers and shakers, considering records, political influence, business acumen, philanthropic efforts and the constituencies each individual represents. Once again, we partnered on this project with Jennifer Solomon, a communications professional who used her expertise and insights to help assemble a truly impressive list: the Long Island Power 100. 1. Andrew Cuomo Office of the Governor Governor In a region known for its layers of government, Long Islanders know there is one politician who sits above them all: Gov. Andrew Cuomo. Cuomo has a complicated relationship with Long Islanders, bestowing a permanent property tax cap on one hand and serving them with congestion pricing in the other. His support of the Long Island Rail Road will be part of his legacy, as he has delivered projects and funding that are transforming the 185-year-old system by updating crumbling stations, adding tracks in strategic locations and investing in if not completing the East Side Access project to connect Long Islanders directly to Grand Central Terminal. The downside is that the newly passed congestion pricing plan is expected to disproportionately impact Long Islanders, with most of those funds slated to update New York Citys subways. Cuomos opposition to offshore drilling and his tangible support for offshore wind, funds for clean water infrastructure and sewers are all key Long Island-centric priorities and demonstrate his ability to deliver on quality-of-life issues impacting the region. 2. Charles Schumer Courtesy U.S. Senate U.S. Senator U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer may technically be from Brooklyn, but his regular presence on Long Island and his ability to own niche community issues have earned him local credibility. No matter the climate in Washington, D.C., Long Islanders can count on Schumers support for the Long Island Sound, the local fishing industries, three airports and infrastructure funding of all kinds. Schumer was a key player in Canons decision to build its headquarters in Melville, where it now employs more than 1,000 people, and he recently came out against a new National Flood Insurance plan that he says would unfairly impact Long Island coastal communities, some of which are still rebuilding from Superstorm Sandy. As Senate minority leader, Schumer is one of the more powerful people in the nation, with the ability to negotiate meaningful wins for the region and state. His role gives him some power within the New York delegation, where he continues to shine as a pragmatic dealmaker who delivers for the families of Nassau and Suffolk counties. 3. Pete King Celeste Sloman Congressman Having been in office for more than a quarter century, Rep. Pete King is one of Long Islands longest-serving politicians. An establishment Republican with a hawkish stance on national defense matters and a seat on the Homeland Security Committee, King has also become an ally of President Donald Trump. His support of the law enforcement community and his outrage at the regions gang problem played a role in Trumps visit to speak at the Morrelly Homeland Security Center in Bethpage last spring. On other Long Island issues, Kings been unafraid to ruffle feathers in Washington when advocating for funding Superstorm Sandy recovery and 9/11 victim compensation, and when opposing the new cap on state and local tax deductions. He has a history of bipartisanship on issues concerning Long Islands North Shore and protecting the Long Island Sound, while remaining true to his Republican roots on issues like abortion and immigration. Amid the blue wave in 2018, King fought off a challenge by winning another term with a surprisingly narrow 53% of the vote. 4. Steve Bellone [[{"fid":"8291","view_mode":"default","fields":{"format":"default"},"type":"media","field_deltas":{"4":{"format":"default"}},"attributes":{"style":"height: 300px; width: 300px; float: left;","class":"media-element file-default","data-delta":"4"}}]] Suffolk County Executive Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone is a veteran of Long Island politics, having served in local office since the age of 28. After rising through the ranks in Babylon as councilman and supervisor, Bellone successfully ran for the countys top position in 2011. Throughout his career, his signature issue has been sustainable and transit-oriented economic development, with a focus on energy-efficient building, underserved communities and clean water infrastructure. His legacy projects include Wyandanch Rising, the Ronkonkoma Hub and Connect Long Island, a vision to weave Suffolk Countys downtowns together with a comprehensive transit plan. Bellone touts the countys slow and steady march to fiscal recovery from the $500 million deficit he inherited, as well as progress in combating the MS-13 gang and increasing the number of narcotics search warrants in response to the opioid epidemic. Hes considered the front-runner for his upcoming reelection bid, but an increasingly crowded field of Republican challengers are pointing to fiscal mismanagement in hopes of ousting him before hes sworn in for a third term. 5. Laura Curran Nassau County Executive's Office Nassau County Executive Now in the second year of her first term, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran is living up to her campaign promise to reform county government, starting with a zero tolerance order on gift-giving. Some of her signature accomplishments to date include property tax reform, which was badly needed in the county, as well as a massive overhaul of Nassau University Medical Center, resulting in more than $2 million in savings. Curran has also made strides on economic development in Nassau County. The Nassau Hub project, which has been debated and delayed for decades, was finally approved under her watch and is expected to move forward, bringing jobs, entertainment and housing to the area around Nassau Coliseum. Her vision to make Nassau County a destination also includes a new downtown-like community in Belmont, with a new arena for the New York Islanders to call home. As the first woman to hold this office, Curran also pledged to hire women for about half of the countys 21 top jobs. Last Friday, Theresa May finally resigned as Britains prime minister. At the end of her exit announcement, May, who will stay on until the governing Conservative Party picks a successor, started to cry. Her tears sparked media debate as to whether we should feel sorry for her; the next day, British newspaper front pages carried the image with varying degrees of sympathy. Internationally, reporting and commentary struck similar chords, albeit with less dependence on the crying photos. Some observers, including The New York Times editorial board, stressed that Mays main jobdelivering Brexithad always been an impossible task. The consensus view in the American press, however, held that Mays time in office has been an unmitigated failure. Anne Applebaum, a columnist for The Washington Post, called May the least successful British prime minister in living memory. The time for reflection quickly concluded. In the British press, at least, May has already become something of a footnote. The Sunday papers were dominated by the horse race to succeed her. The crowded field of heavyweights and callow outsiders has shades of the Democratic presidential primary contest in the US. Boris Johnsonthe journalist turned London mayor, turned Brexit figurehead, turned foreign minister, turned Brexit figurehead againis the frontrunner; on Sunday, much coverage focused on his colleagues efforts to stop him. Michael Gove and Dominic Raab, two high-profile rivals to Johnson, emphasized in separate broadcast interviews that they are details peoplea veiled rebuke of Johnson, who has frequently been accused of having a poor grasp of policy specifics. Johnsons love life was another recurring theme. The Mail on Sunday noted, in its front-page headline, that the race is turning toxic already. ICYMI: After trade talks, China press crafts a controlled nationalist narrative On Sunday night, an already crowded news cycle moved on again as the results of Britains elections to the European Parliament, the European Unions legislative arm, were announced. (Britain was supposed to leave the bloc prior to the elections, but ended up taking part. Voting was last Thursday.) Many outlets, both in the UK and overseas, proclaimed a thumping victory for the Brexit Party, a newly formed grouping led by Nigel Farage that advocates Britain leaving the EU without an exit deal. That looked like a fair takeaway: the Brexit Party topped the national poll by a margin of more than 10 percent. In truth, however, the picture was more complicated. Taken together, the vote share for the Liberal Democrat and Green parties, which both strongly support canceling Brexit altogether, tied the Brexit Partys vote share; if you include pro-Europe nationalist groups in Scotland and Wales, pro-Europe voters actually won. (Full disclosure: I campaigned for Britain to stay in the EU in 2016, before I became a journalist.) Beneath many headlines about Farage and the Brexit Party, Britains inconclusive, ongoing divisions emerged as the bigger story. Among international media, the Post did a particularly good job putting this context front and center. Since Sunday night, the British press has continued to litigate the results. Supporters of the Brexit Party fumed at the BBC for downplaying the extent of their victory in its election-night coverage. This morning, however, Faragea bombastic self-promotercontinues to dominate newspaper front pages; a banner headline in Metro even amplifies his claim that the Brexit Party would win a national election, should one be called. (Britains electoral system and the different contexts of national and European elections make this outcome highly unlikely.) The attention lavished on Farages party is no surpriseits success looks like a new narrative in a cycle that has become numbingly repetitive. Not everyone accepts that framing, however. The idea that the Brexit Party is a new party is a total fiction, Carole Cadwalladr, the journalist who broke the Cambridge Analytica story, tweeted. Its just the latest host body for Faragethe tapeworm of British politics. The long weekend has felt like a case study in British political media in 2019intense, whirlwind narrative churn atop deeper divisions that never seem to change. May herself became a metaphor for this phenomenon: as her tenure wore on, the words nothing has changed even became satirical shorthand for her inflexibility in the face of obvious failure. But the press should be highly skeptical of those such as Johnson and Farage, who peddle simple ways out of the grinding impasse. As the Times editorial board noted Friday, the intractable policy problems that undid Mays efforts to solve Brexit will not go away. On that front, at least, nothing has changed. Sign up for CJR 's daily email Below, more on Theresa May, Europe, and Brexit: I, Maybot: During her time in office, May came to be known as the Maybot for her emotionless, mechanical political style. (The term was coined by John Crace, a sketch writer for The Guardian.) Her tears on Friday marked a narrative shift that made some observers uncomfortable. She was Maybot for three years. She gets emotional when shes leaving and now shes a role model for girls and women, Janine Gibson, an editor at the Financial Times, tweeted. We still have some way to go with the way we talk about women in public life. During her time in office, May came to be known as the Maybot for her emotionless, mechanical political style. (The term was coined by John Crace, a sketch writer for The Guardian.) Her tears on Friday marked a narrative shift that made some observers uncomfortable. She was Maybot for three years. She gets emotional when shes leaving and now shes a role model for girls and women, Janine Gibson, an editor at the Financial Times, tweeted. We still have some way to go with the way we talk about women in public life. Boring down: For the Times, Stephen Castle profiles Johnson. A journalist by training, Johnson was fired by the London Times for inventing a quote but later made his name as the Brussels correspondent for the Daily Telegraph with a string of articles lampooning European integration, Castle notes. As foreign minister, Johnson complicated the prospects for a dual British-Iranian citizen, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who had been arrested by Iran for sedition. He said in Parliament that she was there to teach journalism, even though she was there only to visit family. For the Times, Stephen Castle profiles Johnson. A journalist by training, Johnson was fired by the London Times for inventing a quote but later made his name as the Brussels correspondent for the Daily Telegraph with a string of articles lampooning European integration, Castle notes. As foreign minister, Johnson complicated the prospects for a dual British-Iranian citizen, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who had been arrested by Iran for sedition. He said in Parliament that she was there to teach journalism, even though she was there only to visit family. Beyond Britain: As in the UK, the European election results painted a complicated picture across the continent: right-wing populist groups made gains, but so did liberal and green parties. Different European newspapers emphasized different parts of this story. The Guardian and the BBC have round-ups. For the Post, Applebaum argues that, through these dueling narratives, the EU is becoming a single political space. Other notable stories: ICYMI: The story of Ernest Hemingways $187,000 magazine expenses claim 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. YouTube is littered with extreme and misleading videos, and the company has been criticized for not doing enough to limit the dreck. But one place the Google unit has managed to clean up is YouTubes homepage. Behind the scenes, Google has deployed artificial intelligence software that analyzes reams of video footage without human help, deciphers troubling clips and blocks them from the homepage and home screen of the app. Its internal name is the trashy video classifier, according to three people familiar with the project. The system, which has not been reported before, plays a key role in attracting and keeping viewers on YouTubes homepage, building a foundation for a flurry of new advertising coming to the video service. Google tested the classifier as early as 2015, but deployed it broadly after a series of ugly incidents with childrens videos in 2017, according to a former YouTube staffer. One episode, dubbed Elsagate, featured popular videos showing the Disney princess in a variety of untoward situations. That year, YouTube also faced a torrent of advertiser boycotts over inappropriate videos that threatened to dent sales. A Google spokeswoman confirmed the company has a classifier that screens videos for the YouTube homepage as well as the watch next panels that recommend other clips. The system analyzes feedback from users who report videos that are misleading, clickbait-y and sensational. It also taps other data on audience retention, likes and dislikes. This shows YouTube is capable of regulating the spread of troubling content. However, current and former employees say the company has only seriously focused on the problem when money is at stake, or in the case of terrorist content when outside pressure has forced it to act. The trashy video classifier was, in part, driven by financial incentives. As more people used smartphones to get online, they increasingly went straight to YouTubes app and website, rather than watching YouTube clips on other destinations online. This was potentially good news for YouTube. When people watch ads directly on the service, rather than elsewhere on the internet, Google often gets more of the revenue, said a person familiar with the company. They asked not to be identified sharing private information. YouTube also doubled down on the trend by adding new homepage features including a Trending tab and personalized carousels of clips. The problem, though, was that some popular videos surfacing on the homepage were cringe-worthy clips of people fighting or someone taking a bruising fall, for instance. One former engineer recalled an internal meeting involving a still image from a video with male genitalia. This type of content got clicks, but it also turned some people away from the homepage and loomed as a potential publicity nightmare. YouTubes terms of service prohibit pornography. This is what drove YouTube to embrace the trashy video classifier. The system has been a success, helping to rid the homepage of many unsavory clips and keep viewers coming back. Google recently told marketers that watch time on YouTubes homepage and app grew tenfold in the past three years. We started testing a clickbait classifier in 2015, which we rolled out broadly in 2016 in order to improve users experience, the Google spokeswoman said. It looks for titles or thumbnails that misrepresent the content of the video or include offensive language, among other things. The value of this AI system became even clearer this month, when Alphabet Inc.s Google released new advertising features that target YouTubes growing direct audience. For the first time, marketers can run promotions on smartphones as users scroll through YouTubes app. That makes the video service look a lot more like Facebook Inc.s Instagram, and could help Google grab more of the ad dollars that currently flow to social-media rivals. The company doesnt share YouTube financials, but RBC Capital Markets estimates the video service generated more than $20 billion in sales last year. Improvements to the homepage audience and new ways of showing them ads could generate billions of extra dollars in revenue. Still, YouTubes AI software can only do so much. Machines struggle to parse what happens and what is said inside video footage automatically, particularly without the help of text descriptions of clips. More than 450 hours of video are uploaded to YouTube every minute. The company cites this gargantuan sum to justify repeated mistakes. The latest AI techniques are getting better at recognizing both the content and context of videos, although the data signals remain noisy, said Serena Yeung, a researcher at Stanford University who was advised by former Google AI executive Fei-Fei Li. Could software be trained to identify something like people fighting from footage alone? You could, said Yeung. It will probably have a lot of errors; it will work some of the time, but not all of the time. She didnt know about YouTubes trashy video classifier. YouTube has mostly brushed off the advertiser boycotts at this point. Marketers are more confident the company can handle brand safety concerns, said Chris Apostle, chief media officer at iCrossing, an ad agency. He predicts advertisers will immediately test the latest YouTube ad tools. YouTube is still very much a part of the conversation, he said. Copyright 2021 Bloomberg. As we approach the halfway point of 2019, Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) continues to be one of the most rapidly evolving areas of compliance in claims. On the horizon are possible significant changes relating to each compliance point: Section 111, Medicare Set-Asides (MSAs), and recovery. Insurance carriers, self-insureds, claims professionals, attorneys, and MSP practitioners will potentially be affected. To properly prepare for potential changes, industry stakeholders first must understand what those changes are and their possible impact. Enforced penalties and expanded compliance may be on the horizon for Section 111 Civil money penalties The potential for a per-claim penalty of $1,000 per day for Section 111 noncompliance has loomed over the industry since the 2007 passage of Section 111 of the Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Extension Act (Pub. L. No. 110-173 [2007] [codified in various sections of 42 U.S.C.]). Section 111 brought stringent reporting requirements on the part of insurance carriers and self-insuredsknown as Responsible Reporting Entities (RREs)to alert Medicare to the existence of responsibility under MSP. The associated civil money penalty (CMP) for noncompliance is grounded in the MSP statute,[1] but currently, theres no regulatory mechanism indicating when it may be imposed. The SMART Act of 2012[2] revised the statutory language to ensure the penalty was optional versus mandatory, and the SMART Act required the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide clarification about when penalties may be imposed. In 2013, CMS initiated the rulemaking process by soliciting comments. But the agency took no further action until fall 2018, when the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a notice indicating that CMS is planning to release proposed rules for public comment about civil money penalties.[4] Its expected that later in 2019 CMS will outline a proposed rule around the imposition of CMPs. RREs will need to be on alert for the release of a formal proposed rule in order to comment and advocate for reasonable, fair, and appropriate guidelines concerning Section 111 CMPs. Medicare Parts C and D data A major difficulty for primary payers is the identification of Medicare recipients who are enrolled in Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) and Medicare Part D (prescription drug) plans. The Section 111 query response provides general information only about traditional Medicare (Parts A and B) enrollment. The Provide Accurate Information Directly (PAID) Act (H.R. 1375), if passed, would require CMS to return Medicare Parts C and D information for the last three years before the applicable injury. RREs would most certainly require updates to the query response file to ingest and capture new data points. Should this legislation pass, it will be important for RREs and their technical teams to follow CMSs guidance when the changes go into effect. Medicare Set-Asides in 2019: The hunt for alternatives, off-label meds, and potential expansion Submission alternatives In the last few years, insurance carriers, self-insureds, TPAs, and vendors have been increasingly exploring alternatives to submitting MSAs to CMS for review when they otherwise meet submission thresholds. Costs have been reported as the primary driver behind this trend. Parties to a workers compensation settlement can typically contain costs and achieve compliance through the formalized voluntary Workers Compensation Medicare Set-Aside (WCMSA) submission process. Yet, there are circumstances when engaging in traditional submission that may result in unfairness, inequality, and speculative treatment proposed by CMS. At the individual claim level, CMSs methodology may be unsound and unreasonable, resulting in a claim that cannot be settled. From a programmatic viewpoint, the risk tolerance of the parties may weigh against availing themselves of the process altogether. In addition to forgoing submission, other features and elements are often used to guard against exposure and mitigate costs, including: professional administration insurance/indemnification provisions alternative allocation methodologies So long as CMS continues to uphold inflexible and unreasonable requirements for future medical care, it is assured that the appetite to explore alternative options to traditional MSA submission will likely increase. Stricter WCMSA review criteria The Workers Compensation Review Contractor (WCRC) is requesting copies of treatment records for zero-dollar submissions. In the past, the WCRC rarely made this type of request. In some cases, these requests can be successfully protested, and there are recent examples of zero-dollar approvals following the submission of medical records. Claims payers should monitor whether the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the WCRC will continue to move toward a more stringent review or formalize new policies around the zero-dollar proposal. Since taking over the WCRC, Capitol Bridge, LLC, has consistently required Lyrica to be included in MSAs where it was historically excluded as an off-label medication. CMS formally announced a policy change requiring Lyrica in MSAs in the January 2019 release of the Workers Compensation Medicare Set-Aside (WCMSA) Reference Guide,v2.9. The basis for inclusion, per the WCMSA Reference Guide,is that [t]here are many off-label indications that are listed in recognized compendia and peer-reviewed sources; thus, they would be covered under the Part D Benefit, and should also be included in a WCMSA (see section 9.4.6.2). Based on this rationale, submitters should keep a close eye on whether additional medications with off-label indications will be required in the future. Liability Medicare Set-Asides As long as the WCMSA program has existed, the industry has speculated and offered different opinions about the applicability of future medicals in the liability arena. Liability Medicare Set-Asides (LMSA) have been the perennial concern of the MSP industry. Regardless of where a practitioner lands on the issue, for years CMS has intimated that settling parties should take Medicares interests into consideration in liability claims. In the latter part of 2018, the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) released a notice indicating that CMS plans to issue proposed rules on options to address future medicals in relation to liability, workers compensation, and no-fault claims.[5] This notice further indicated that a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on this subject is targeted for release by September 2019. While the released notice doesnt provide any specifics, the forthcoming proposed regulation is believed to be focused on LMSAs. The industry is closely watching to see if CMS will finally take steps to codify policy around future medicals in liability claims. The state of recovery: Part C decisions, performants continued challenges, and rising Treasury involvement Increase in Part C recovery and double damage rights Judicial decisions in various jurisdictions have recognized Private Cause of Action (PCA) rights under the MSP, whereby a Part C/Medicare Advantage Plan entity can recover double damages to recoup conditional payments. These rights have increased the activity in Part C recovery against primary payers and have opened the door for litigants seeking to recover under the PCA. CMS provides the Non-Group Health Plan (NGHP) Section 111 data to Part C plans, although the details and scope of this process remain unclear. However, this data exchangealong with court decisionshas bolstered Part C recovery. With proposed PAID Act legislation requiring CMS to return Part C enrollment data[6] to RREs in the query process, RREs would be permitted to investigate a potential Part C plan lien. The entities could then take proactive measures to ensure that the lien is properly addressed and resolved. The industry is closely keeping an eye on movement in Part C recovery litigation and continued reforms that could level the playing field between primary payers and Part C plans. Performants performance The Commercial Repayment Center (CRC) contractor change and the initiation of pre-settlement recovery against primary payers were two of the biggest changes to the MSP program since its start. The first entity to hold the post, CGI Federal, struggled with a new process and NGHP recovery concepts under the MSP. Within two years, in October 2017, CGI Federal was replaced by Performant Corp. Performant inherited a significant backlog that it continues to work through. Improvements in turnaround times and general performance have been made; however, the CRC still needs to improve accuracy of charges, the dispute/appeal process, the MSP Recovery Portal (MSPRP), obtaining refunds, integration with Section 111 data, incorrect referrals to the U.S. Treasury Department, and issue resolution, to name a few. As the CRC continues to increase its recovery efforts, the latter half of 2019 will be a critical year for the contractor and an area for industry stakeholders to watch. Treasury collections rise Recovery sought of MSP debts to the U.S. Department of the Treasury increased in 2018.[7] Many of them originated as mistaken or premature referrals from the CRC. With an increase in referrals to Treasury, it appears that there was also an increase in referrals to the Treasury Offset Program (TOP). When a debt is referred to the TOP, federal funds owed to an entity or individual can be intercepted in consideration of the MSP debt. This particularly affects entities that are frequent recipients of federal grants as well as beneficiaries who rely on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and other federal benefits. Recently, states also became more involved in offsets through the State Reciprocal Program (SRP), where they can intercept funds owed for federal debts and vice versa. [8] Treasury collections, including the TOP, are effective means for CMS to recover delinquent MSP debts. However, its critical that referral integrity exists and that appropriate information be available to primary payers. This would ensure that inappropriate collections can be contested and refunds obtained. CMS is mandated to refer delinquent MSP debts to Treasury, so this will be a developing issue in 2019 as recovery only increases. Preparing for the changes ahead With all the new requirements in the pipeline, its important for insurers to remain vigilant by keeping informed about MSP trends and legislative developments. Carriers will also want to make sure they have the resources on hand to pivot their compliance efforts when necessary. By staying a step ahead of the potential changes, insurers can successfully achieve compliance and contain costs in the ever-changing MSP landscape. Footnotes: [1]42 USC 1395y [2]Strengthening Medicare and Repaying Taxpayers Act of 2012 (SMART Act): https://www.congress.gov/bill/112th-congress/house-bill/1845 [3]https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2013/12/11/2013-29473/medicare-program-medicare-secondary-payer-and-certain-civil-money-penalties [4]https://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=201810&RIN=0938-AT86 [5] Miscellaneous Medicare Secondary Payer Clarifications and Updates (CMS-6047-P) https://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=201810&RIN=0938-AT85 [6]Sec. 2(2)(II) to the extent applicable, identify by plan name and address any Medicare Advantage plan under part C and any prescription drug plan under part D in which the claimant is enrolled or has been enrolled during such period. [7]See The Medicare Secondary Payer Commercial Repayment Center in Fiscal Year 2018 Report to Congress [8]https://www.transparency.treasury.gov/dataset/treasury-offset-program/state-programs-participation In the village of Bodiguda a crowd of 300 Hindu radicals devastated the homes of three Christian families who refused to convert. The police refuse to file the report. New Delhi (AsiaNews) - Attacks on Christians resumed in India in the aftermath of the 2019 general elections. The last incident took place in a Chhattisgarh village on May 23, but the news was released yesterday. A crowd of about 300 people looted and devastated the homes of three Christian families "guilty" of not wanting to renounce their faith. The violence took place in the village of Bodiguda, in the district of Sukma. According to witnesses, the village council was summoned on the day of the attack to deliberate on the fate of the minority faithful. Faced with the refusal to renounce Christianity, a crowd of 300 Hindu radicals turned the houses upside down and demolished the roofs. Then the fathers of the three family - Sariyam Irma, Urma Deta and Padam Supa - were ordered to leave the village, under threat of worse consequences. Speaking to AsiaNews New Delhi activist and director of development at ADF India (Alliance Defending Freedom), AC Michael, said that Son Singh Jhali, a lawyer who follows the case, "helped the Christians to compile the complaint, but the police refused the registration of a formal complaint. The agents wanted to force the Christians to find a compromise with the persecutors ". Finally, he adds, the lawyer "accompanied them to the office of the district magistrate, where they were able to register the case. The official promised appropriate actions". This year's election was marked by numerous episodes of violence and intimidation against religious minorities: not only Christians, but also Muslims. The incident is not a good sign in view of the creation of that "inclusive" India that Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about as soon as he was re-elected. In fact, just under his first term, activists and religious leaders have reported a surge of abuse against those who do not profess the majority Hindu religion. The rain across the Midwest and Great Plains thats closed refineries, flooded streets and snarled Mississippi River traffic shows no sign of abating, adding to the U.S.s wettest 12-month stretch on record. Heavy showers will fall from Texas to the Great Lakes as a months-long pattern of storms continues for at least the next week, said David Roth, a senior branch forecaster at the U.S. Weather Prediction Center. Tornadoes and hail also threaten the region. The Arkansas River, which empties into the Mississippi, is forecast to set flood records by next week in Van Buren, Arkansas, and the Toad Suck lock and dam in Conway. The Army Corps of Engineers is monitoring the Mississippi to see if the Morganza spillway in Louisiana should be opened to mitigate the flooding. Days and days of rain the pattern is not really changing, Roth said by telephone. As much 21 inches have soaked parts of Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas and Louisiana in the last month, he said. The 12 months ending in April have been the contiguous U.S.s wettest yearlong stretch on record, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information. Parts of the Mississippi and other rivers have been at flood stage since last fall. The deluges have killed dozens of people, forced others from their homes and had severe consequences for agriculture, transportation and energy. Only 49% of the U.S.s corn crop had been planted as of May 19, trailing the five-year average, according to the Department of Agriculture. In Ontario, just 5% of fields have been seeded, said Trevor Hadwen, an agriculture-climate specialist with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Regina, Saskatchewan. Planting across key areas of the corn belt has been seriously hampered, said Jim Rouiller, chief meteorologist at the Energy Weather Group. The near-term to medium-range weather models point to this weather pattern persisting into mid June. For many farmers, the length of the growing season is starting to enforce a natural deadline that could force them to choose different crops because fields are too wet for corn and soybeans. The forecast doesnt offer much hope in coming days. There isnt enough recovery time for the ground to dry out, Roth said. Chicago, St. Louis, Dallas and Topeka, Kansas, have all had above normal rain through May 23, according to the National Weather Service. Refineries close Flooding also curbed the flow of oil this week at Americas largest supply hub in Cushing, Oklahoma. HollyFrontier Corp. began closing two Tulsa refineries with capacity to process a total of 155,000 barrels a day. Tallgrass Energy Partners LP shut a section of its Pony Express crude pipeline. Wholesale gasoline in the Midwest rose 3.75 cents a gallon relative to New York-traded futures contracts Thursday, a sign supplies may tighten while refineries are down. Prices along the Gulf Coast also rose as traders bought replacement supplies. Even if flooding on rivers doesnt spread, its enough to limit freight traffic on the Mississippi. A typical 15-barge tow along the river carries the same amount of cargo as 240 railroad cars and 1,050 semi trailers, according to the Army Corps of Engineers. The Mississippi was closed again through St. Louis Thursday because of high water and fast currents. Norfolk Southern Corp. said flooding continues to impact its train operations in the Midwest, and that its last remaining route to Kansas City has become inoperable. BNSF Railway Co. said severe weather is significantly disrupting service in Kansas and Oklahoma. Copyright 2021 Bloomberg. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Ah, the start of summer with Memorial Day in the rear view mirror. In addition to the unofficial start of the grilling season for many Northeast Ohio residents, National Hamburger Day is upon us. This time last year, cleveland.com traveled across Northeast Ohio to conduct a taste test of 100 burgers at the 20 finalists in Clevelands Best Burger contest. cleveland.com readers chose Gunselmans Tavern in Fairview Park as the ultimate winner through online votes. Meanwhile, the cleveland.com reporters that ate the 100 burgers put together a list of the 27 absolute best burgers you have to taste for yourself. Why not celebrate todays National Hamburger Day by wrapping your hands around one of those 27 sandwiches. MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS, Ohio -- From moving military ceremonies to patriotic parades, the communities of Berea, Brook Park and Middleburg Heights commemorated Memorial Day amid large crowds of veterans, first responders, dignitaries and residents. American Legion Post 91 conducted an early morning service in Bereas Adams Street Cemetery before traveling to Middleburg Heights for another poignant ceremony at Woodvale Cemetery. Parades traversed the streets of Berea and Brook Park, with hundreds of people lining the routes. Mayors Cyril Kleem of Berea, Matt Castelli of Middleburg Heights and Mike Gammella of Brook Park spoke briefly of the personal sacrifices made by brave men and women during the nations armed conflicts. Honor guards were an important part of the Memorial Day ceremony at Woodvale Cemetery. (Beth Mlady, special to cleveland.com) Castelli quoted President John F. Kennedy, emphasizing how Americans will oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty. Kleem acknowledged the emotions this particular day can elicit, noting that his father died on Memorial Day last year. He then suggested that people make it a day of service. Do something good for your community today, or for someone else, as a way to pay it forward, Kleem urged, while Gammella encouraged everyone to remember the people who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can enjoy the freedoms we have today. Read more stories from the News Sun. BEREA, Ohio -- Renee Betterson has just finished her freshman year at Cleveland State but she packed a lot of wisdom and patriotism into her keynote address at Bereas 151st Memorial Day observances. Renee is no stranger to the military. Her father, Dr. John Betterson, is retired from the Air Force and a member of American Legion Post 91s honor guard. And Renee has won honors at the American Legions National Oratorical Contest. Years ago, my father was deployed to the Middle East, Renee told the crowd gathered at McKelvey Park in downtown Berea. Mom gave each of us kids a pillow with a photo of Dad in uniform. I slept with that and it comforted me. We were the lucky ones, she continued. John Betterson came home. I could hug him for real, she said. There were other families that had only pillows and photos to remember. Today let us remember those who sacrificed to give us the gift of freedom and democracy. Tomorrow let us live our lives so that we honor the lives lost, said Renee, who comes from a family of seven children, all home-schooled. American Legion Post 91 organized the ceremony and the parade through downtown Berea. The observances included a 21-gun salute and the placing of wreaths in memory of those who lost their lives in all wars from the Civil War through the Iraq War. World War II Navy veteran Tom Goebel, 93, read the list of names of Berea military who died in battle. World War II veteran Tom Goebel, 93, reads the names of Berea military who died in battle. (Photo Courtesy of Linda G. Kramer) Mayor Cyril Kleem said the symbols of Memorial Day, including the traditional American Legion poppies, have a deeper meaning. The mayors father, John Kleem, a World War II veteran, passed away last year on Memorial Day. When he passed, he was wearing a poppy, the mayor said. Many men in his unit did not come home. Many of us here have family and colleagues who did not come home. Lets remember that, Kleem said. Wear that poppy with pride and remember the dedication of those it symbolizes. The ceremony concluded with Taps followed by Amazing Grace performed by bagpiper Bruce Connor of the Cuyahoga County Sheriffs Drum & Bugle Corps. Nancy Doutt of the Post 91 Auxiliary sang God Bless the U.S.A. Janet Koch, also of the Auxiliary, rendered America the Beautiful. The invocation was by Pastor Ken Spink of Berea Baptist Church. Rev. Patrick Hunt of Heritage Congregational Church gave the benediction. RICHMOND HEIGHTS, Ohio -- A smiling Richmond Heights Schools Superintendent Renee Willis called Tuesday (May 28) a new day in the city, on the occasion of the groundbreaking for the new $26 million, Richmond Heights combined upper and middle school building. Work will get under way in early July with the demolition of the current buildings approximately 56,000-square-foot gymnasium and locker room area, an annex constructed to the main building in 1971. Shortly after demolition, construction of the new building will begin, with an expected opening in 2021. It was built in 1921, Willis said of the main section of the current high school building that faces Richmond Road. The irony of this is that we will be doing ribbon cutting in 2021, 100 years after this building had been erected. In attendance for the groundbreaking were City Council members, school board members, students, staff and faculty members, and Mayor David Roche. Also present was State Sen. Kenny Yuko, the Richmond Heights resident who served as the campaign chair with Terry Butler when, in November 2017, 51.3 percent of voters approved Issue 62, a combined levy for the new building and an additional $1 million operating levy. Our children are 30 percent of our population, and theyre 100 percent of our future, Yuko told those gathered. We will not forget that in Richmond Heights. These kids are going to have an excellent opportunity in life right now. Thank God we have somebody like Dr. Willis leading the charge. Willis said that when she was hired in 2014, the school board knew they were hiring a visionary leader. In 2016, Willis brought her vision of a new school. Noting that the city has little industry to rely upon for tax money, Willis thanked the people of Richmond Heights for their support and David Conley, of Lancaster, Ohios Rockmill Financial, for devising a plan to pay for the new building. A rendering of the new Richmond Heights school building. Construction on the building is expected to begin in July. (Photo Courtesy of ThenDesign Architecture) The building will contain the citys new branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library, the first such school-embedded library in the CCPL system. It wont be as large as the South Euclid or Mayfield (library) branches, but it will be bigger than the one weve got," Willis said of the new library compared to the current one at 5235 Wilson Mills Road. The librarys main door will be separate from the school, so that visitors dont have to walk through the school. The new school -- which will house upper school students on the top, or second, floor and middle-schoolers on the first -- will also include a multi-purpose space for community meetings and space dedicated for senior citizen activities. Willis said she also made sure to include a 1,000-square-foot room in the new building for a planned aviation program. At the time, Willis noted, it was not known if such aviation education could be arranged. Our students would see planes taking off and landing all the time at the (next-door Cuyahoga County) Airport, but theres so much more," Willis said. "They knew about being a pilot, but they didnt (know) about all the jobs there are in the aviation industry. The superintendent was pleased to announce at the groundbreaking that the dream of an aviation program at the school is going to move forward. The district has received a $700,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Education through its Expanding Opportunities and Career Pathways Division. Willis said the grant will help start up the program by paying for equipment, and then later setting up a maker space where students can learn to manufacture aviation parts. Richmond Heights High School is teaming with Aspen Aerospace Alliance in a long-distance learning program to teach aspects of aviation. The grant money will also allow for the hiring of a career connection liaison and the purchase of drones. Willis said she has contacted Cuyahoga County Airport Manager Rob Hartigan about possibly starting a job shadowing program, and T&G Flight School about a possible working relationship. In attendance Tuesday afternoon was Councilman Frank Lentine, a 1968 Richmond Heights High School graduate. Lentines two children graduated from the school, as did his two brothers. Its bittersweet, Lentine said of making way for a new building. To see it coming down is kind of bittersweet. Sad to see it go, but its a new horizon. Its a new time in Richmond Heights. Im very proud of our community for being stand-up and being ready to support the schools and also the city. Weve come a long way, we really have. Lentine said that as older people move out of their three- and four-bedroom homes, new families can move in, knowing that they have a new, top-grade school for their children to attend. Theres a lot of good things happening, Lentine said. The mall (Richmond Town Squares $70 million apartment development), Richmond Road is finally being repaved, we have an insurance company with 165 employees moving in (Selman & Co.), Hilltop Plaza may be getting renovated. A lot of good things. Its a big change, Roche said. More people will stay in the community and want to come to a new school, (and learn from a) new curriculum. Its another piece in the pie of trying to get everything through the development stage. Said Willis of the changes being made: When I started five years ago, my slogan, my mantra, was its a new day. We all knew what the community and school were going through in 2014 when I started. The mayor was recalled, the former superintendent was incarcerated and, here we are, five years later. That was in the past, and you can never forget it. It gives you a kind of appreciation for where you are. It drives you and encourages you to make things better. See more Sun Messenger news here. WESTLAKE, Ohio -- The end of the school year is also the end of a long career in education for Jim Osborn. The veteran teacher spent 46 years in the classroom, 21 of those at St. Paul Westlake, educating thousands of students. This is by far the best place Ive ever been, said Osborn, 67. The congregation and staff are so welcoming. He said the youngsters in his fifth-grade classroom are the reason he gets up each morning. Its the kids. I really love working with them, he said, adding that his philosophy is that a day without laughter is a day wasted. Teaching is a family affair for Osborn. All three of his children -- Charity, Jeremy and Shannon -- are teachers. All are graduates of Baldwin Wallace University and all three have masters degrees. Osborn says there are three things that make a great teacher: First and foremost, you have to love kids. Second, you have to have lots of patience and third, you have to laugh with them. He and his wife, Casandra, will celebrate their 47th wedding anniversary on Aug. 12. Their nine grandchildren -- four of whom attended St. Pauls -- keep them busy. Westlake Mayor Dennis Clough proclaimed May 29 as Jim Osborn Day in Westlake. I would like to encourage all residents to join me in honoring Jim for his enduring service and leadership and wishing him continued success and happiness throughout his retirement, Clough said in his proclamation. So, whats next as Osborn begins his retirement? My wife and I would like to do some travel, to see the U.S.A., he said, adding that a dream would be to visit Hawaii. He also hopes to be able to do some substitute teaching to spend more time with his family. Osborn is a graduate of Concordia Teachers College in Seward, Neb., where he earned a bachelors degree. He began his career at St. Mark Lutheran School in Cleveland, followed by two years at St. Charles Emmanuel Lutheran. He then moved on to St. Thomas Lutheran School in Rocky River, where he spent 21 years before joining the staff of St. Paul Westlake. He will be honored with a special service of recognition at 2 p.m. May 29 at St. Paul Westlake, 27993 Detroit Road. A private reception will follow. He also will be honored on June 2 by the St. Paul Westlake congregation. Now hiring: The Rocky River Recreation Department is hiring lifeguards and learn-to-swim instructors for spring and summer. Applications are available online at rrcity.com/human-resources or at the Don Umerley Civic Center, 21016 Hilliard Blvd. , Rocky River. The position pays $9 per hour. Call 440-895-2591 for more information. New board member: Menlo Park Academy has welcomed three new trustees to its board of directors, including Westlake resident Cindy Wang. Their terms begin July 1 and run through June 30, 2022. Wang is the finance manager for MetroHealth System. Her work experience includes accounting reporting, audits, general ledger work, risk assessment, financial planning, analytics and budget planning, for nonprofits to publicly traded Fortune 500 companies. She and her husband, Dennis Cole, have a child at Menlo Park Academy. Wang enjoys traveling and going to concerts and shows with her family. She also is an owner of Cleveland Studio for Music and Arts. Westlake Porter Public Library has a full slate of programs and activities for patrons of all ages during the next week. (Carol Kovach, special to cleveland.com) At the library: Heres a look at some of the events taking place this week at Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, Westlake. Visit westlakelibrary.org for a full listing of programs. Children of all ages are invited to get familiar with all kinds of vehicles and to meet the men and women who drive them from 10 a.m. to noon June 1 in the back parking lot. The event will take place rain or shine. No registration needed. The American Girl Doll Club, for ages 6-11, will meet from 2 to 3 p.m. June 2 to focus on the doll McKenna Brooks, a fourth-grader from Seattle who is skilled in gymnastics, but struggles with her schoolwork. Attendees will play games and make a theme-related craft. Registration is requested. A 10-week course for grades 5-6 will meet from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Tuesdays, June 4, 11, 18 and 25, to teach the basics of Java, one of the most popular computer programming languages. Space is limited for each weekly session; attendees are asked to try to attend all sessions. Registration begins a week before each session. The Cuyahoga West Genealogy Society will have an informal, walk-in help session from 1 to 2:30 p.m. June 5. Ken Hehnen, a certified paramedic/instructor, will teach a certification course for adult, child and infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillator use from 6 to 8:30 p.m. June 5. Registration is requested and participants must be 13 or older. An American Red Cross bloodmobile will visit the library from 1 to 7 p.m. June 6. Newly confirmed: St. Paul Westlake celebrated the rite of confirmation for 18 youths on May 19. Congratulations to the 2019 confirmation class: Kelly Conaway, Tori Doenges, Evelyn Dunlap, Nolan Eyman, Olivia Guggenbiller, Rachel Haggard, Noelle Hanchuk, Caden Hatfield, Calvin Jenkins, Samiya Kastner, Juliana Klopp, Braden Lamb, Bethany Montie, Logan Murray, Madalynn Kimbler, Christopher Suffredini, Anthony Vangelos and Alek Wolf. Library receives microgrant: Rocky River Public Library is one of 10 Ohio libraries to be awarded a micro-grant through Grow with Googles Libraries Lead with Digital Skills and American Library Association initiative. The library has found that patrons of all ages, educational backgrounds and economic levels often have a low comfort level with the tools needed for seeking employment. RRPL has staff available to write and provide feedback on patron resumes and cover letters in one-on-one sessions, as well as offering guidance in job searching as requested. Call 440-333-7610, extension 5501 to schedule a resume help session. Race for the Place: At 9 a.m. June 2, thousands of people from Northeast Ohio will head to Beachwood Place for The Gathering Places annual Race for the Place. Participants can raise funds to support local people touched by cancer. The event has a 1-mile walk and a chip-timed 5K race. Last years event raised more than $400,000 to support individuals and families coping with cancer, with every dollar going to provide free programs to support them on their journey. This year, The Gathering Place is celebrating 20 years of serving the community, so they hope this is the biggest and most successful race ever. The Race for the Place helps fund the free services offered at The Gathering Place, including support groups, programming for children and teens, art therapy, nutrition, exercise classes, lectures, lending libraries, the Regina Brett Wig Salons and more. The race starts, rain or shine, on the upper level parking deck between Nordstrom and Dillards, 26300 Cedar Road. Race day registration begins at 7:30 a.m. For more information, to register as an individual or to start a team online, visit racefortheplace.com, call The Gathering Place at 216-595-9546 or visit The Gathering Places Beachwood or Westlake locations. To learn more about The Gathering Place, visit touchedbycancer.org. Information, please: Readers are invited to share information about themselves, their families and friends, organizations, church events, etc. from Bay Village, Rocky River and Westlake for the West Shore Chatter column, which I write on a freelance basis. Awards, honors, milestone birthdays or anniversaries and other items are welcome. Submit information at least 10 days before the requested publication date to carolkovach@hotmail.com. Read more news from the West Shore Sun. CLEVELAND, Ohio A Cleveland man convicted of human trafficking said in a lawsuit that he endured inhumane living conditions while being housed in the Cuyahoga County Jail. Dorian Brown, 30, said he also endured cruel and unusual punishment and was deprived of proper medical and mental health care when in the jail from 2015 to 2017. He also said his religious beliefs were not honored, though he does not state what those beliefs are. Brown filed his handwritten lawsuit May 22 in federal court in Cleveland. He is pursuing his case without an attorney. A jury found Brown guilty in 2016 of trafficking in persons and compelling prostitution. Prosecutors said he helped run a prostitution ring out of hotels throughout Northeast Ohio that at times featured as many as 10 girls and women, with some being as young as 15 years old. Brown and co-defendant Jason Dowell exploited the victims weaknesses to lure them into prostitution, officials said. They promised money and expensive clothes, a way to escape poverty, as well as exclusive relationships. The men also preyed upon drug addictions, prosecutors said. In addition to the jury verdict, Brown pleaded guilty to a human trafficking conspiracy charge. Common Pleas Judge John ODonnell sentenced Brown to 18 years in prison for both cases. However, the 8th Ohio District Court of Appeals reversed Browns conspiracy conviction in February, saying the judge did not properly inform Brown that he would be classified as a sex offender upon conviction. The reversal meant five of the 18 years in his sentence were vacated. Court records show that Brown and prosecutors are engaged in plea negotiations. Due to the pending case, Brown was recently brought back to the county jail. He wrote in his lawsuit that he is enduring the same conditions again and is being deprived of his religious liberties and mental health services. Brown sued months after the U.S. Marshals Service issued a report that said investigators found inhumane and unconstitutional conditions in the county jail. His is just the latest lawsuit filed by inmates over what they say are problems within the jail, and many of the complaints in Browns case mirror those laid out in other lawsuits. The lawsuit names Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish, former jail director Ken Mills, former Sheriff Clifford Pinkney, Associate Warden Eric Ivey, former county IT administrator Emily McNeeley and Chief Talent Officer Douglas Dykes as defendants in the case. Mills and Ivey have faced criminal charges related to the jail. Dykes and McNeeley were criminally charged as part of a corruption probe into the county, and their charges have nothing to do with the jail. Brown seeks to be fairly compensated for the conditions he said he endured. A county spokeswoman did not respond to an email seeking comment. If you would like to comment on this story, please visit Tuesdays crime and courts comments section. CLEVELAND, Ohio Cuyahoga County has seen a recent spike in opioid overdose deaths, with eight fatal overdoses over Memorial Day Weekend and at least 18 over an eight-day period, the medical examiner said. Fentanyl is likely to blame for the increase in deaths between May 20 and May 27. Authorities believe drug dealers are mixing the powerful opioid with crack-cocaine, medical examiner Dr. Thomas Gilson said in a news release. Im deeply concerned about the number of overdose fatalities weve seen within the past week, Gilson said in the news release. The news of the deaths comes one day before U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams is scheduled to visit Northeast Ohio. Adams will meet Wednesday with medical officials and lawmakers to discuss the opioid epidemic that has continued to plague communities across the U.S., in addition to other public health matters. Cocaine has increasingly been a factor in drug overdose deaths in Cuyahoga County. Last year, the drug was a factor in 45 percent of all fatal overdoses, the highest percentage in more than a decade. The 18 recent deaths include 12 men and six women. The victims range in age from 27 years old to 65 years old, but 11 victims were over the age of 50, according to statistics from the medical examiners office. Half of the victims were black, which Gilson noted is a high percentage. Last year, just 21 percent of all fentanyl deaths in Cuyahoga County involved black victims. Fentanyl test strips, which can be used to detect the drug when it is mixed with cocaine, heroin and other substances, are available at the following locations: The medical examiners office also urged anyone using opioids or dealing with opioid addiction to contact Project DAWN at 216-778-5677 or the Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board of Cuyahoga County at 216-623-6888. CLEVELAND, Ohio Chris Lieb, an owner of Tremont Taphouse and Butcher and the Brewer, is stepping up to help coordinate Cleveland Beer Week. Last week the annual event, which celebrates craft beer with a variety of creative tastings throughout Greater Cleveland, was reported to be on life support. And while it might have briefly flat-lined, it appears it has been brought back to life. What precipitated the news of what looked like its probable demise was spurred by the resignations of board members John Lane of the Winking Lizard and Sean Hice of Heidelberg Distributing. The two - along with current board member Ed Thompkins of Heinen's - shouldered much of the organizational burden for the event. Lieb has committed to keeping the event not only going but on schedule this October. "I got a lot of reaction to that (last week's story)," he said. "I talked to John Lane and Sean Hice. They had originally come to me a month and a half ago and asked if I wanted to take the reins of Cleveland Beer Week. I had a lot of people say 'What's going on?' A lot of people really wanted it to happen. I reached back out to John and Sean and said 'I'll take it.' " Some changes will be coming, Lieb said: The number of board members will be increased to five - Lieb, Thompkins, event coordinator Kim Bihler and two others. It will return in October but will be shortened "by one or two days," he said. June 2020 was considered, but Lieb is happy it will return in the fall. It will kick off Saturday, Oct. 19, but the end date is not set. It probably will be Friday, Oct. 25, or Saturday, Oct. 26. Previously the fest covered 10 days. Flagship events will change. Some will stay, others will not return. "I'm pretty sure Offshore Pour will stay," he said, referring to a tasting on the Nautica Queen. "Belgian Social will will stay, but it might have a new name." That event might expand beyond Belgian ales to include other European beers, he said. Flagship events are several high-profile ticket items ranging from food and beer pairings to releases and a grand-finale tasting. Lieb said he wants to "revisit them to make them a little bit more exciting." In past years, the farewell event has been Brewzilla or Rare, a culmination party featuring limited-edition or special pours. That final event will emphasize food as well as beer, Lieb said, adding the venue is not determined. In the past it was held at several places, including the Wolstein Center. "There'll be a bigger food component to attract not just beer people but foodies," he said. "If we can make that event palatable to a bigger variety of people I think it will be cooler. Beer will be the highlight but food" will take on a strong focus, he said. That's a natural fit for Lieb, 49, who has been in the food business since he was 18. Actually his experience goes back further: His wife even found a photo Lieb's mother took, showing him, as a 2-year-old, bellied up to the bar at Ohio City Tavern, where he father worked. So Lieb is going into his Cleveland Beer Week role with experienced eyes open. "We can still pull it off," he said. "We're only a few weeks behind last year." Another reason fueling Lieb and other organizers is the effect the fest has on the Jimmy Malone Scholarship Fund. The charity counts on support from Cleveland Beer Week, Lieb said. "We wanted them not to have to find that money elsewhere," Lieb said. The next step is to bring together brewers, distributors and other participants, he said. The news that Cleveland Beer Week looked doubtful to continue "got people thinking about it," Lieb said. Now we can flip the script, he said. People were like Really, its going to go away? Our plan is spruce it up and make it better. Anything gets stale after 10 years. My dad is 94 and he was at Utah Beach almost 75 years ago. Rick Steves article about this other beach prompted conversation with vivid memories (A Trip to Utah Beach: Visiting the other American D-Day beach, May 19). We look forward to Plain Dealer reporter Brian Albrechts upcoming anniversary articles about D-Day. We should listen and continue to learn from our World War II veterans. Kevin Louise Schaner, Cleveland Heights by Anna Chiara Filice Fr Mahendra Gunatilleke talks about the Easter Sunday attacks, which "were a devastating blow. As a result, people began to wonder about Gods existence. Trust between communities must be rebuilt and Muslims must be integrated. Rome (AsiaNews) Fr Mahendra Gunatilleke is the national secretary of Caritas Sri Lanka. He travelled to Rome for the 21st General Assembly of Caritas Internationalis (23-28 May). After the Easter Sunday attacks, "people did not want to talk because they were too devastated. The only thing they asked was to pray with them. So we decided to assign a priest or a nun to each family to guard the spirit of these families and accompany them on a journey of prayer. We didnt want them to feel alone. Speaking to AsiaNews about the sense of hopelessness that followed the attacks against three churches during Sunday masses and in three hotels at breakfast, he said that various steps were taken to rebuild survivors faith and heal their physical wounds with some certainty. "I am convinced, he explained, that if a community is accompanied from a pastoral, spiritual, psychological point of view, and people remain together, the recovery will be faster. The Church attacks "were a devastating blow, coming a few days before the tenth anniversary of the end of the civil war, on which we were all concentrated." In the aftermath of the carnage that claimed the lives of 257 people, "people felt desperate, obsessively repeating Why did all this happen? I lost my family; I don't want to wake up in the morning. I don't need to go to church. God does not exist.'" "We worked hard to rebuild trust between people after interfaith ties had been shattered. There are physical wounds that have to heal, but also mental and psychological scars that are even more difficult to overcome. Faced with such a brutal tragedy, Caritas reacted swiftly, providing assistance to the wounded and survivors, Catholics and Protestants. Some results are already visible. We set up a psycho-social pastoral outreach desk with volunteers who provide legal and psychological support. Now we want to work on short and long-term programmes to ensure livelihoods, education, and medical assistance." Aid has gone to at least 150 people among the relatives of the dead and some 600 families of those who were wounded. Regarding funding, "we can count on the Caritas family and Catholic partners. But we would like to link benefactors and affected families, with the former sponsoring the latter for a number of years. Thus far we have received the support of many families, but we must still have to work on coordinating all this." In Batticaloa Caritas is also helping the local Protestant community whose place of worship, Zion Church, was one of the churches attacked. Last Friday, some of us handed out some money, said Fr Mahendra, some 50,000 rupees (US$ 285) per family. In Colombo, Catholics are already covered thanks to money raised by Card Malcolm Ranjth and delivered to the local Caritas-Sedec. The cardinal expressed his solidarity towards us and we brought it to the Christians of Batticaloa." Finally, Christians and Muslims living on the eastern part of the island should not be forgotten. "It is from there, from Kattankudi, that militants with the National Thowheed Jamath responsible for the massacres came from. Everyone knows that in recent years the radical ideology spread to the area, with ties not only with the Islamic State, but also with preachers from Saudi Arabia. The government has been completely negligent. At the same time, Muslim leaders must understand the value of national reconciliation and peace, and abandon a mindset that is too self-centred and unwilling to integrate. For our part, we shall do everything to bring our Muslim brothers to engage in dialogue again." CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Boaters could legally dock in the East Bank of the Flats over Memorial Day weekend, thanks to an experiment by Phastar Corp. and the students at Davis Aerospace and Maritime Academy. And they may be able to offer the privilege again this summer. The Cuyahoga River is a federally navigable water way, which must be kept clear for freighters delivering iron ore to the ArcellorMittel steel plant. But as the river runs cleaner and the weather gets warmer, the river becomes a free-for-all of sunseekers on boats, paddlecraft and even floats. So Phastar Corp., a Cleveland nonprofit aimed at improving education and safety services, worked with the U.S. Coast Guard and Flats East Bank to secure a temporary conditional waiver to allow docking in the safety zone between AlleyCat Oyster Bar and the Norfolk-Southern railroad bridge. Thats one of 10 NO DOCKING areas, called safety zones, on the river. Phastar provided a dockmaster, a safety boat and trained students from Davis, a Cleveland Metropolitan School District high school. If a freighter radioed that it was coming through, boaters had to move. Watch the timelapse video above, shot at our RocktheLake Music Box Supper Club live bridge cam, to see the action Monday afternoon. And watch live video of the river any time. Were working out the kinks, Coast Guard Lt. Ryan Junod said Monday. Were trying to come up with a good comprehensive plan where everyone can use the water way. Were heading in the right direction. On a gorgeous, sunny Memorial Day afternoon, the river was packed full of pleasure craft, paddlers, the Brew Boat and the Goodtime III. And when the Dorothy Ann-Pathfinder notified that it was headed downriver, all the docked boats untied and left. Right in the middle of it, the Dorothy Ann-Pathfinder came down, said Phastar President Drew Ferguson. The reason for doing a conditional waiver was, lets see how it works in action. Can we do what we said we would? Pleasantly, we did. Davis students began patrolling the river last summer. This year, theyve assisted kayakers who got swamped in the river. To improve safety on the river, four digital signs have been erected, north and south of the Norfolk-Southern bridge, as well as in the Flats and by Rivergate Park, to alert paddlers and boaters when a freighter is coming and when the railroad bridge will lift. And Phastar is training kayakers and paddlers as ambassadors, to carry radios and administering first aid, as needed. Ambassadors will be on the water Thursday-Sunday, plus special events. Phastar, the Coast Guard and the Flats East Bank are expected to meet this week, to consider another waiver this summer, to let boaters dock again in the safety zone. (Though rafting is still illegal, under city ordinance.) Want more Lake Erie and Cuyahoga River news? Follow RocktheLake on Facebook. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- If you shop in Cuyahoga County it may soon require an extra preparatory step -- bringing your own reusable bag. Cuyahoga County Council will vote Tuesday night on a proposal to ban single-use plastic bags, which is expected to pass. A simple majority of the 11-member council is needed to pass legislation. If passed, the ban would go into effect Oct. 1. Reporter Hannah Drown will be live on cleveland.coms Facebook page Tuesday evening to show scenes of the vote and to lead a discussion during and afterward. The meeting starts at 5 p.m. and Drown will begin the broadcast when they start discussing the measure. Do you have questions, thoughts or comments? Be sure to put them in the comments section once the Facebook Live video broadcast begins. The video will appear at the top of the cleveland.com Facebook page once the broadcast begins. It also will be added to this post. Free trial of Project Text throughout May from Hannah Drown about live reports: Weve engaged with each other plenty through my coverage on Facebook Live, and we can get to know each other even better on the more friendly platform of Project Text. Sign up for a free trial through May 31. No credit card is required. Learn more and sign up here. COLUMBUS, Ohio Ohios anti-abortion movement is encouraged by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding an Indiana law that requires burial or cremation of fetal remains because a similar law is moving forward in the Ohio General Assembly. But the high court chose not to rule on an Indiana law that bars women from having an abortion based on a fetus gender, race or disability. That law more directly affects the future of Roe v. Wade, which grants women the right to an abortion. Abortion-rights supporters are relieved that the court -- at least for now -- seems uninterested in taking on that larger issue. Mike Gonidakis, president of Ohio Right to Life, said that the courts ruling on Indianas cremation and burial law shows that justices see fetuses as having humanity. Theyre sending a strong signal that this is the most pro-life court in a generation," he said. "It is a slam dunk? No, but we truly have a punchers chance for the first time in a generation at the Supreme Court. What we continue to do is bring home the fact that this is an unborn child. Jessie Hill, a Case Western Reserve law professor and attorney representing abortion providers in many Ohio legal challenges, said she has suspected the Supreme Court wont take on Roe v. Wade for the next year or two. It refused again to ask any bigger questions about the right to abortion that were implicated there, she said. "I think the court is not anxious to take the issue. It certainly could have gone otherwise; it could have taken both issues. It could have written a big opinion. It could have reconsidered Roe. Ohios fetal remains bill Ohios fetal burial and cremation measure is Senate Bill 27. The abortion provider has to dispose of the remains, or face criminal prosecution. The bill has passed the Ohio Senate. Its currently under consideration in a House committee. I am pleased with the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling supporting the ethical and dignified treatment of fetal remains, said SB 27s sponsor, Cincinnati-area Republican Sen. Joe Uecker, in a statement. Freda Levenson, legal director for the ACLU of Ohio, said that the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling on the Indiana case was narrow. It just answered the question of whether there is a legitimate state interest in regulating disposal of fetal tissue. If the Ohio General Assembly passes HB 27, the states abortion providers could sue over it, forcing a court to answer another common question brought up in abortion lawsuits: whether the law would be an undue burden" on women seeking abortions, she said. We would hope that question would be answered differently because it is a burden," she said. Its a huge expense, which would increase the cost of abortions. Ohios Down syndrome case There is a court challenge in Ohio over a law somewhat like Indianas discrimination abortion ban, except it prohibits abortion only if the fetus has Down syndrome and thats the reason a woman is choosing to end the pregnancy. In January, a three-judge panel on the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments on the Down syndrome ban. The court hasnt yet released its ruling. The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday didnt touch Indianas law, which was overturned by the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals -- a different appellate region that doesnt cover Ohio. Depending on how the 6th Circuit rules on Ohios Down syndrome ban, there could be a split with the 7th Circuit --which means the U.S. Supreme Court may take an Ohio case to resolve the differences of legal opinion. If the 6th Circuit tosses out Ohios Down syndrome ban, which Levenson of the ACLU of Ohio believes it will do, then there would be no conflict or reason for the Supreme Court to look at the ban again. Ohios fetal heartbeat suit Separately, there is a lawsuit over the constitutionality of the fetal heartbeat abortion ban, which, if it goes into effect, would outlaw abortion in Ohio at around six weeks -- before many women know theyre pregnant. The fetal heartbeat lawsuit was filed roughly 10 days ago. The legislature passed the bill in April and Gov. Mike DeWine signed it shortly after that. The ACLU of Ohio, Preterm-Cleveland and others are suing for a preliminary block to the law, which goes into effect July 11. Then the plaintiffs want a permanent block. The state is fighting to defend the law. The federal trial court has agreed to plaintiffs request of no oral arguments. It has set a briefing schedule for each side and will decide, based on those submitted legal arguments, whether to grant a preliminary block by July 11, said Levenson, of the ACLU of Ohio. COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has declared a state of emergency in three Dayton-area counties that were devastated by tornadoes late Monday. The designation affects Greene, Mercer, and Montgomery counties, and will allow state agencies to provide resources and support beyond their normal authority, under the direction of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, according to the governors office. It also suspends state purchasing requirements to allow officials to more quickly provide supplies, like water and generators. DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted on Tuesday toured areas that were struck by the tornadoes, which killed one 81-year-old Melvin Dale Hannah of Celina, who was killed when a parked car was blown into his house and injured dozens more. DeWine posted about his visit several times on Twitter, writing that his prayers are with those who were affected by the storms. Storm reports posted online by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations Storm Prediction Center showed that 14 suspected tornadoes touched down in Indiana, 11 in Colorado and nine in Ohio. Six were reported in Iowa, five in Nebraska, four in Illinois and three in Minnesota, with one in Idaho. A tornado with winds up to 140 mph struck near Trotwood, eight miles from Dayton. In Brookville, west of Dayton, the storm peeled roofs off schools, destroyed a barn and heavily damaged houses. Only a few minor injuries were reported in Dayton. Fire Chief Jeffrey Payne called that pretty miraculous," attributing it to people heeding early warnings. Sirens went off ahead of the storm. A boil-water advisory was issued after the storms knocked out power to the citys pumping stations, and Dayton Power & Light said 64,000 customers were left without electricity. Information from the Associated Press was used in this report by Paolo Fossati Catholics number 750,000 Catholics, or just over 1 per cent of the Myanmar population. The social and humanitarian arm of the Church was set up in 2001 and can count on 725 volunteers involved in education, emergencies, health, social protection and livelihood. Crises in the states of Kachin and Rakhine require different approaches. Rome (AsiaNews) Richard Win Tun Kyi, the national director of Caritas Myanmar (first picture, right), told AsiaNews that, in a multi-ethnic and multireligious context like Myanmar, Caritass mission is to bear "witness to Christ's love for the downtrodden, those who are lost and the poorest of the poor". He was one of some 400 participants in the 21st general assembly of Caritas Internationalis (23-28 May). "Since its foundation, Caritas Myanmar has been very attentive to the diversity of peoples that make up our nation, he explained. At the same time, it proudly affirms its affiliation with the Church and its loyalty to its bishops. The social principles of Catholic doctrine guide us." Myanmar is home to 750,000 Catholics, just over 1 per cent of the population. Known domestically as Karuna Mission Social Solidarity (KMSS), the organisation has been operating under the mandate of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Myanmar (CBCM) since 2001. KMSSs 725 volunteers are involved in five main areas: education, disaster risk reduction and emergency response, health, social protection and livelihood. Currently, several humanitarian emergencies are unfolding in Myanmar. Its work is most relevant in Rakhine State, scene of armed clashes between the military and the rebel Arakan Army (AA) affecting the Bengali-Rohingya population, as well as in Kachin State and northern Shan, torn by fighting. The social, ethnic and religious aspects of each are different, forcing Caritas Myanmar to adopt different approaches but with caution as the common denominator. "In Kachin and Shan, the Church can count on a strong presence, due to the large number of Christians (Catholics and Baptists). There are three dioceses directly affected by the fighting: Myitkyina, Banmaw and Lashio. "The great activity of the Catholic community, in terms of pastoral and social work, has contributed to rooting KMSS in the region since the early 2000s. For this reason, when armed clashes resumed in 2011, we were able to respond to the emergency immediately. "This was also possible because the two factions the Myanmar military (Tatmadaw) and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) view the Church as a neutral party. Thanks to the 'trust factor', we were able to undertake an important humanitarian assistance programme." "Nevertheless, we are very cautious because we walk a very thin line. In all our humanitarian interventions, we first focus on the people who suffer because of the conflict, about 60,000, out of the more than 120,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) that we manage to assist in the non-controlled areas of the government. Our aid goes exclusively to refugees. The conflict in Rakhine is a somewhat different for the Church. Here Catholics are a small minority: in the whole Diocese of Pyay, which covers the state, there are only 8,000 Catholics out of a population of 2 million people. "Despite such numbers, KMSS began working in Rakhine as early as 2003-2004. This is one of the poorest and most difficult states of the whole country. In 2009, when tropical storms devastated the area, we helped all communities: Bengali Muslims, Rakhine Buddhists and Chin ethnic groups. "Although we were able to establish a foothold in Rakhine, ethnoreligious tensions force us to be very cautious. They touch Muslims and Buddhists above all, but we cannot allow our work to be an excuse to drag Christians into it. The latter are already viewed with suspicion by the authorities and extremists." The green light with the signature of the three leaders of the Status Quo: the Custos of the Holy Land, the Armenian patriarch and the Greek Orthodox patriarch. Christian leaders express "great joy and satisfaction". The work in two phases of "restoration and rehabilitation" concerns the foundations of the tomb and the floor of the church. Jerusalem (AsiaNews) - Two years after the first part of the restoration of the Holy Sepulchre, in Jerusalem, which concluded on 22 March 2017 with a solemn ecumenical ceremony, the Christian communities have reached an agreement for the second phase . Those responsible for the Status Quo of the sacred place where Christ was buried signed the clearance for the project: the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Teophilos III, the Custos of the Holy Land Francis Patton and the Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem Nourhan Manougian. The first part of the restoration work on the aedicule of the Holy Sepulchre began in May 2016, following the signing of the agreement on 22 March, and continued for about 10 months. The objective of the work was the consolidation of the whole structure, to preserve it from the damages deriving from eventual seismic activity, as was the case with the earthquake of 1927. The work is financed both by public and private bodies. In an official statement released yesterday following the signing, the leaders of the Christian communities responsible for the Status Quo of the Holy Sepulchre announced the agreement "with great joy and satisfaction". The work of "restoration and rehabilitation ", continue the leaders of the three communities, concern "the foundations of the Holy Sepulcher and the floor of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre". The project, continued the Christian leaders, is the consequence of a "positive" outcome of the "restoration of the tomb". It "marks and confirms the Communities' ongoing commitment to the maintenance and rehabilitation of this Holiest place, which in its silence and bareness, eloquently proclaims the very essence of our Faith." The project related to the second phase of the work will take place " The project will be carried out in two phases, a first stage of study for the determination of the current situation of the foundations and a second phase of restoration of the foundations and of the pavement of the Church. Two Italian academic and scientific institution of the highest qualification shall carry out the studies and execute the works under the supervision of the joint committee of the three Communities. AMD shares jumped as much as 12% and ended the day up almost 10% on Tuesday after announcements about upcoming chips led analysts to predict the company will pick up market share from rival Intel. On Sunday, at the Computex Industry show in Taipei, AMD talked about several new third-generation Ryzen PC chips coming in July that will use the company's "Zen 2" core technology. In a statement, AMD said one Ryzen chip outperformed a central processing unit (CPU) from Intel by more than 16%. To make the comparison, AMD used a chip Intel announced last year, an Intel spokesperson told CNBC in an email. "AMD's system was tuned, yet they made this comparison with the older product without latest software tuned for the workload. If they had, the second-generation Intel Xeon Scalable processors will take the top spot," the spokesperson wrote. Intel closed down about 2% on Tuesday as U.S. indexes also ended the trading session in the red. "This announcement represents the first time AMD has taken the desktop CPU lead process technology and performance lead from Intel in its 50-year history," Stifel analysts led by Kevin Cassidy wrote in a note to clients on Monday, when U.S. markets were closed for the Memorial Day holiday. "Importantly for investors, we expect AMD to accelerate its PC market share gains due to higher performance, lower power usage, lower cost and ease of upgrade." The Stifel analysts, who have a buy rating on AMD stock, expect market share gains that will raise AMD's average selling price and lead to higher gross margin. AMD said it will release new Radeon RX 5700-series graphics processing units for gaming in July. The GPUs will use a new architecture, Radeon DNA, or RDNA. The presentation showed a new Radeon card performing better than a card from rival Nvidia. AMD CEO Lisa Su said the next Sony PlayStation console will use a GPU that relies on the RDNA technology, along with a chip containing the "Zen 2" core. A representative from Nvidia did not immediately respond to a request for comment. New third-generation Epyc chips for servers that use the "Zen 2" core will follow in the third quarter. At the show, AMD demonstrated a server running new silicon from AMD outperforming an Intel server in one test. Amazon and Microsoft have both begun offering AMD chips to third-party developers through their public clouds. "The presentation reinforced our positive thesis on AMD's product cycle/sustainable share gain story looking into 2H2019," wrote Aaron Rakers of Wells Fargo, who recommends buying AMD shares, in a note Monday. Analysts also pointed to Intel's own struggles getting to the latest cutting-edge process for manufacturing chips. Matthew Ramsay of Cowen said that with AMD's upgrades, Intel will no longer be able to count on its "silicon advantage, and will instead lean on its incumbency and breadth of silicon as its 10nm chips are not expected out until late 2019 in PCs and 2020 in servers." Ramsay, who has an outperform rating on AMD, said the company's product road map has considerably improved for 2019 and 2020. WATCH: 2019 a 'growth year,' says AMD CEO Brazil is following the U.S. and Canada in taking on Big Tobacco, becoming the first country in Latin America to sue cigarette makers over the financial toll of smoking. Brazil's attorney general's office, known as the AGU, last week sued the two largest cigarette manufacturers in the country Philip Morris International and British American Tobacco to cover the costs of treating patients with 26 tobacco-related diseases over the past five years. The AGU said it is seeking reimbursement for those costs as well as future costs. If successful, the move could set precedent in Latin America. Philip Morris, R.J. Reynolds, Brown & Williamson and Lorillard have paid more than $126 billion combined so far to settle similar legal claims by 46 states in the U.S. as part of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement in 1998, according to the Public Health Law Center. The World Health Organization praised the Brazilian government for trying to tackle the tobacco epidemic there, which it deems "one of the biggest public health threats the world has ever faced." The group's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control calls for governments to deal with civil liability, including compensation, as a key piece of tobacco control efforts. The lawsuit "marks a crucial step forward in holding tobacco companies responsible for their decades of deceitful advertising and marketing practices that hid the dangers of smoking from the public and purposely targeted young people," Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids President Matthew Myers said in a statement. Spokesmen for Philip Morris and British American Tobacco both declined to comment on the lawsuit. Philip Morris spokesman Ryan Sparrow said Brazilian courts in other lawsuits "have consistently found that tobacco manufacturers are not liable for smoking-related damages given that the sale of cigarettes is a legal, heavily regulated activity and that the health risks of smoking have been well known for decades." The AGU said it filed the lawsuit at the federal court of Rio Grande do Sul. The aggressor committed suicide stabbing himself in the neck. The girl was a student at a Catholic school in the Tama district. She had been waiting for the school bus with her friends. It is believed that the attacker is a 51-year-old resident of the Asao district of Kawasaki. Tokyo (AsiaNews / Agencies) - A 12-year-old girl and a man in his thirties died, while another 14 people were injured in a mass stabbing this morning near a Catholic school in Tama, Kawasaki district (prefecture of Kanagawa). Police officers rushed to the scene of the tragedy immobilized a man believed to be the author of the attack, but he died after he stabbed himself. A 40-year-old woman and two elementary school students are in serious condition. Based on the first findings by police, it is believed that the suspect chose random passers-by. In the minutes following the attack - which took place around 7.45 am - the rescuers found a bleeding man on the ground; two kitchen knives with blood stains close to the body. The agents immediately took him into custody. According to authorities, the man stabbed himself in the neck and died at the hospital where he was transported. It is believed that the bomber is a 51-year-old resident of the Asao district of Kawasaki. The police are committed to confirming his identity and the reason for the attack. The site of the massacre (photo) is near the Noborito station, on the Odakyu line. The investigators say that the students of the Caritas Elementary School, located about 1.5 kilometers north-west of the train station, were waiting for the school bus when they were attacked by the killer. "A man with a kitchen knife in each hand came towards the school bus, and suddenly he started to stab children who were in line to get on the bus," an eyewitness said. The Caritas Elementary School was founded by the school operator Caritas Gakuen in 1963. It places priority on Catholic education and also has affiliated middle and high schools and daycare. In the 2018 academic year, the elementary school had 647 students (63 boys and 584 girls). Every day, a school bus transports students from the Noborito station to the institute and vice versa. The race to become the next leader of the Conservative Party, and consequently the next U.K. prime minister, has begun to accelerate with the first round of voting set to take place next week. Whoever wins will have the unenviable task of trying to deliver Brexit after a political deadlock and three failed parliamentary votes helped bring down Theresa May who resigned as leader on Friday. CNBC takes a look at the Conservative lawmakers who are vying for power through the prism of Britain's withdrawal from the EU. Boris Johnson This is not the first Conservative leadership contest for the former foreign secretary and mayor of London, after he prematurely ended a previous attempt in 2016 that paved the way for May to enter Downing Street. He is one of Britain's most globally prominent but domestically-divisive politicians. May brought him into her government in a senior role that left him responsible for Britain's presence on the world stage and frequently kept him away from Westminster. He later resigned from his post as a result of May's willingness to lead the U.K. into what he called a "semi-Brexit" that would leave Britain as a "colony" of the European Union. He has recently insisted that Britain must stick to the new October 31 Brexit deadline; that he would attempt to renegotiate the complex and contentious Northern Irish backstop contained within the Britain's withdrawal agreement with Brussels something May tried and failed to do repeatedly. But absent changes to that backstop, Johnson has said he would take the U.K. out of Europe without a deal. U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson Artur Widak | NurPhoto | Getty Images Dominic Raab The former minister tasked with handling Brexit negotiations for May after his predecessor David Davis resigned, Raab stayed in the role for a little more than four months before he too quit in protest at the deal May finally struck with the EU. He called the deal a betrayal of Conservative Party manifesto promises made during the 2017 general election campaign, insisting that the Irish backstop was undemocratic and that the deal threatened the integrity of the United Kingdom because of regulatory differences it would introduce for Northern Ireland. Raab is another leadership contender who says Britain must leave the EU on October 31, perhaps even without a deal, and he has hinted that it might be possible for a prime minister to pursue that course of action unilaterally, without parliamentary approval. Britain's Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union Dominic Raab arrives in Downing Street in London, Britain, October 29, 2018. Henry Nicholls | Reuters Andrea Leadsom Her resignation as leader of the House of Commons made her the last of the three-dozen ministers who have stepped down from May's government in the past 13 months. In a sign of the divisive nature of the Brexit process for those inside the British cabinet, she was the 31st minister to do so for reasons relating to the U.K.'s departure from the European Union. In her role as Commons leader, Leadsom acted as the interface between the government and the lower chamber of the British parliament, a polarizing and at times difficult role during a period of heightened confrontation between the executive and legislature. Leadsom's departure appears to have been the final straw for May's premiership, since it was within 48 hours that the embattled prime minister finally announced her Downing Street departure date. Leadsom had previously ceded her prime ministerial ambitions to May in 2016, to prevent a prolonged struggle between two final candidates in that most recent Conservative leadership race. But her raised public profile as a Leave campaigner during the Brexit referendum earlier that year had propelled her to the runner-up spot in that previous contest, despite her lack of cabinet-level experience. Britain's Conservative Party's leader of the House of Commons Andrea Leadsom is seen outside Downing Street in London, Britain, April 1, 2019. Henry Nicholls | Reuters Esther McVey The former work and pensions secretary under May, she resigned the same day as Dominic Raab and claimed that the prime minister's negotiated Brexit deal did not honor the result of the 2016 referendum. In her resignation letter she repeated a common refrain among Conservative euroskeptics in recent months that the Northern Irish backstop contained in the withdrawal agreement would "trap" the U.K. in a permanent customs union with Europe, and would "bind the hands" of future governments that might seek to strike fresh trade deals. Over the weekend, she told Sky News that what she called an "invisible border" between the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom is already technically possible, despite the EU's insistence that this is not yet the case. She argued that the U.K. must leave Europe on October 31, with or without a deal, and that politicians must regain the trust of the British public with an honest appraisal of the 2016 referendum result. Conservative Party MP Esther McVey speaking at a Brexit:Lets Go WTO Rally organised by the Leave Means Leave campaign in Westminster, London, UK on January 17, 2019. Vickie Flores/In Pictures via Getty Images Sajid Javid A former managing director at Deutsche Bank, Javid is the first member of an ethnic minority to serve as home secretary, the British equivalent to a minister of the interior with responsibility for immigration and security. He took on the role after his predecessor resigned during a national scandal about their department's role in deporting legal residents whose residency paperwork the government had lost. In announcing his candidacy he said the dismal Conservative performance in the European parliamentary elections over the weekend showed that the party must deliver Brexit and do so quickly. His personal backstory as the son of a bus driver is markedly different to that of many of his Conservative colleagues and competitors, but he too insists that restoring trust in British politics must be a priority. He originally voted to remain in the EU during 2016's referendum. This fact may work against Javid if he makes it through the parliamentary voting rounds to compete in a ballot of party members, since polls indicate that members' views on Brexit have become increasingly hardline and purist. U.K. Home Secretary, Sajid Javid. Getty Images Matt Hancock The minister responsible for Britain's health and social service system, he has previously worked as an economist at the Bank of England. Hancock has written this week in British newspaper The Daily Mail that it is "mission critical" for the Conservative Party to complete the Brexit process, after its disastrous performance in European parliamentary elections. He has tried to assure his fellow Conservative lawmakers that they would not need to go through a general election until after he has led them through Brexit as prime minister. But he has also made clear in a BBC radio interview that there must be "trade offs" between access to European markets and British sovereignty, in order to get a Brexit deal through the current parliament, he has indicated he would not be prepared to pursue a "no deal" policy. Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock arrives for the weekly Cabinet meeting at 10 Downing Street on 21 May, 2019 in London, England. Wiktor Szymanowicz / Barcroft Media via Getty Images Michael Gove One of the most high-profile Brexit supporters during the 2016 referendum, Gove's commitment to Brexit has never been in doubt, but he has also not insisted that October 31 must be a hard deadline for Britain to exit the EU. He says he wants to unify his party and has implied that a deal with Brussels is ultimately the best way to do that. He damaged his reputation as a trustworthy politician for his decision to end his support for Boris Johnson during the last leadership contest in 2016, but even his political critics have acknowledged that he has proven himself a capable minister with innovative ideas. And according to one lawmaker who has campaigned for the rights of Europeans living in the U.K., Gove has promised this week that if he becomes prime minister then he will offer those roughly 3 million EU nationals the opportunity to obtain British citizenship free of charge. Kevin Winter | Getty Images Jeremy Hunt The current foreign secretary has overnight reiterated in an article for British newspaper The Daily Telegraph his view that a "no deal" Brexit would be disastrous not only for the U.K., but would constitute "political suicide" for the Conservative Party as it would trigger a general election that would risk the party's "extinction." Hunt has served in senior government roles for the best part of a decade, and oversaw Britain's hosting of the 2012 Olympics. He was a high-profile opponent of Brexit during the 2016 referendum campaign, but has publicly said he has reconciled himself with the need to honor the referendum result. He replaced his Oxford University contemporary Boris Johnson as foreign secretary, and as the founder of a successful directory business before he entered government, he is the wealthiest member of the current cabinet. He has stated that his entrepreneurial acumen would help him renegotiate a better deal than May was able to reach with the EU. Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs Jeremy Hunt speaks during the annual Conservative Party Conference on September 30, 2018 in Birmingham, England. Jeff J Mitchell | Getty Images News | Getty Images Rory Stewart As a relatively newly-installed international development secretary, Stewart perhaps enjoys a slightly lower profile outside of the U.K. than many of his rivals for the Conservative leadership. But he first rose to public prominence almost two decades ago when he wrote a book as a young British diplomat about walking solo across a war-torn Afghanistan just months after Al-Qaeda launched the 9/11 attacks from there. He went on to administrate a southern Iraqi province after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion there, so he can lay claim to the rather unique experience of having mediated between warring tribes a skill that might prove useful in contemporary Westminster. He has said recently that British politics needs to take itself more seriously and has publicly criticized several of his competitors, most notably Boris Johnson. He says he wants to strike a deal and then to move on to focus on other domestic priorities if he becomes prime minister. Rory Stewart, U.K. international development secretary, departs after attending a weekly meeting of cabinet ministers at number 10 Downing Street on May 21, 2019 in London, England. Luke Dray/Getty Images Kit Malthouse The minister currently responsible for housing, Malthouse gained a reputation as a pragmatist and mediator earlier this year when Conservative lawmakers with widely different views on Brexit came together for discussions he chaired, to thrash out a compromise that was then put to May. It called for a reworking of the Irish backstop through the establishment of a free trade agreement between the U.K. and EU, as well as an extension to the Brexit deadline. But the suggestion although voted through by Parliament was never seriously pursued by May's negotiators, nor indeed European officials. Malthouse was previously deputy mayor of London and voted for the U.K. to leave Europe, but in his announcement as a candidate he said that any deal will need "unity" across the country, and that a "new generation" of politicians unscarred by internal Conservative conflicts must lead the party forward into the future. The comment, reported by CCTV, was taken as a veiled threat aimed at the U.S. and its technology companies that are dependent on the materials. Last week, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited rare earth mining and processing facilities, adding to speculation that China could make the minerals more expensive or unavailable if the trade war continues to expand. Speculation that China could use its dominance in rare earth minerals as a weapon in the trade war intensified after a Chinese official warned that products made from the materials should not be used against China's development. "You suggested that rare earths could become one of China's countermeasures against the U.S.'s unwarranted suppression...What can I tell you is that if anyone were to use products that are made with the rare earths that we export to curb the development of China, then the people of [south Jiangxi province where rare earths are mined] as well as all the rest of the Chinese people would be unhappy," said the Chinese official, in an interview. The speaker was described as a "relevant official" from the National Development and Reform Commission. Rare earth imports are a relatively small part of the $420 billion U.S. goods deficit with China, but their worth far outstrips their dollar value. The materials are critical in the creation of such things as iPhones, electric vehicles and advanced precision weapons. The Chinese tabloid Global Times also reported Tuesday that China is "seriously considering" limiting rare earth exports to the United States. "Based on what I know, China is seriously considering restricting rare earth exports to the U.S. China may also take other countermeasures in the future," Hu Xijin, editor-in-chief, wrote on his Twitter account. The editor's account is followed by traders. "This is still not official. The U.S. only imported about 4,000 tons of rare earths, worth about $175 million. The problem is most of the rare earths we import are embedded already in the technology. If we buy a computer, they are already in it. That makes it harder for China to cut us off," said Marc Chandler, global market strategist at Bannockburn Global Forex. Chandler said the official's comment was not an official threat from the Chinese government. "The reason the market latches on to this is they think China will retaliate, they just don't know how," said Chandler. "Once they think it through they will realize this will not be today or tomorrow. In order for China to do it comes at a big cost to them. It makes it too severe." The pan-European Stoxx 600 index faded during afternoon deals ending provisionally 0.22% lower. Italy's FTSE MIB index was among the worst performers, slipping around 0.7% amid renewed tensions between Rome and Brussels over the country's public finances. Europe's banking index continued to see losses during afternoon deals, down 0.42% amid reports the European Commission could hit Rome with a hefty fine for failing to rein in its budget. On Sunday, Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said he would use all of his energy to fight what he claimed were outdated and unfair European fiscal rules. His comments came shortly after his far-right Lega Party triumphed in European elections. Italy's Unicredit, Intesa Sanpaolo and Finecobank all lost value over the session. Meanwhile, autos stocks led the gains, trading provisionally 0.64% higher after Fiat confirmed it proposed a merger with Renault. The deal, if agreed, would create the world's third-largest carmaker. All but 3 European autos stocks were trading higher on the news, with PSA Peugeot Citroen leading the gains, up more than 4.3%. Looking at individual stocks, NMC Health surged to the top of the European benchmark. It comes after the company upgraded its 2019 guidance and raised its revenue outlook. Shares of the London-listed stock rose over 7.1%. On the data front, an indicator of German consumer sentiment fell to its lowest level in two years. The GfK consumer sentiment indicator for June hit a worse-than-expected reading of 10.1 points. Diesel demand in China fell 14% and 19% in March and April, respectively, reaching levels not seen in a decade, according to data compiled by Wells Fargo. Monthly demand has also been falling every month since December 2017, the data shows. China's true pace of economic growth is always hard to decipher, but the country's lagging diesel demand could be a sign that the world's second-largest economy is in a much more dire state than official numbers indicate. Source: Wells Fargo Securities, Bloomberg "We believe the accelerating decline is most likely tied to economic factors and the effects of the tariff 'war' with the U.S. (lifted demand earlier in 2019 to 'beat' the tariffs, but now falling)," Wells Fargo energy analyst Roger Read said in a note Monday. "If one wants to worry, that is where to focus most closely in our view." China said in April its economy grew by 6.4% in the first quarter of 2019. However, global investors and economists have been skeptical of China's official economic figures for years as they believe they are overstated. This skepticism has led analysts to use other ways to measure economic growth in China, including demand for diesel fuel and electricity. Diesel is largely used to fuel trucks that transport goods. Declining diesel demand is seen as signal of slowing economic growth as it could indicate fewer trucks are being used, hence fewer goods are being bought and sold. China's massive drop in diesel demand comes as it wages a trade war against the U.S. Both countries have slapped tariffs on billions of dollars worth of their goods. Earlier this month, both countries hiked tariffs across their goods, leading to a ripple effect throughout financial markets. Crude prices, for example, posted their worst weekly performance of 2019 last week and are down more than 7% this month. The S&P 500 is down more than 4% in May while the Shanghai Composite has lost 5.5%. Neither side is showing signs of backing down, either. President Donald Trump said Monday the U.S. was not ready to make a deal with China. Meanwhile, a commentary in Chinese state-run newspaper Xinhua indicated China would not give into U.S. demands to change its state-run economy. These tensions could shave off between 0.3% and 0.4% from China's economic growth, according to UBS analyst Anna Ho. The analyst also said in a note: "Open economies, like Singapore, Korea and Malaysia are more sensitive to global trade and higher export exposure, and could see a reduced chance of growth recovery in 2H19." In another sign of tension between the two countries and perhaps declining economic activity, Chinese tourism to the U.S. fell for the first time in 15 years last year, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. France must protect its own interests and jobs in any merger between Renault and Fiat, even though France's stake in Renault would automatically be diluted, French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire told RTL radio on Tuesday. Le Maire said the French government would seek "four guarantees" on the Renault/Fiat deal, including the protection of French jobs, ensuring France was well-represented on the board of the new entity, and ensuring Renault/Fiat was a leader in the development of electric batteries. "The first: industrial jobs and industrial sites. I told the Renault chairman very clearly that it was the first of the guarantees I wanted from him in the opening of these negotiations. A guarantee on the preservation of industrial jobs and sites in France," said Le Maire. Le Maire confirmed that if the deal went ahead, France's stake in Renault would go down to 7.5% from 15% at present. Le Maire wanted a commitment from Renault chairman Jean-Dominique Senard that no Renault factories in France would close, and that French interests would be well represented in the leadership of a new Renault/Fiat company. The merged group would be chaired by Agnelli family scion John Elkann, sources familiar with the talks told Reuters, while Renault chairman Jean-Dominique Senard would likely become CEO. Fiat Chrysler pitched a finely balanced merger of equals to Renault on Monday to tackle the costs of far-reaching technological and regulatory changes by creating the world's third-biggest automaker. Payment technology companies Global Payments and Total System Services have agreed on a stock merger of equals, sources told CNBC's David Faber. An announcement could come as soon as Tuesday morning U.S. time, according to a tweet by Faber. Faber tweet: Global Payments and Total Systems Services agree to all stock merger of equals deal- sources. Total Systems holders to receive 48% of combined company. Board to be split. Global Payments ceo to run combination with total equity value of roughly $40b. Announcement tomorrow am. Jeffrey Sloan, the chief executive of Global Payments, will run the combined company worth roughly $40 billion, according to the sources. Shareholders of Total System Services will receive 48% of the merged firm, they said. Both companies did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment. Arkansas adopted a stricter abortion law this year that reflects the values that people in the state "feel dearly about," Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson told CNBC on Tuesday. "These are issues of life that we shouldn't just measure by economic impact and how Hollywood is going to respond to it," Hutchinson said, in response to a question about whether he's concerned that companies might be reluctant to do business in Arkansas due to its abortion restrictions. Hutchinson's comments came just before the Supreme Court on Tuesday reversed an appeals court ruling striking down an Indiana abortion law governing the disposal of fetal remains but declined to overturn a lower court's ruling that rejected the state's ban on so-called discriminatory abortions. Arkansas was among several states that passed laws both to curb and protect abortion rights after President Donald Trump's second pick to the Supreme Court, Brett Kavanaugh, was confirmed as a justice in October, giving conservatives a solid 5-4 majority. State legislators on each side of the national debate seized on the Kavanaugh confirmation as either a mandate to tighten or ban abortion or as a warning call to protect abortion rights, which were set forth by the 1973 high court Roe v. Wade decision. Hutchinson said: "In Arkansas, I think we handled it in better fashion. We went from 20 weeks to 18 weeks in terms of abortion prohibition. We also had the expectations of rape and incest in the legislation." The bill that Hutchinson signed into law in March also made exceptions for medical emergencies. "I think we handled it in a measured way this year that has the best chance of influencing the debate nationally as well as recognizing improvements that science has made in terms of viability," said Hutchinson. "We have a trigger law in the event that Roe vs. Wade is reversed," Hutchinson said on "Squawk Box." "We can go back. We can have stronger prohibitions on abortion" if the decision was overturned. Alabama decided not to wait for Washington. GOP Gov. Kay Ivey this month signed the nation's most restrictive abortion law, banning doctors from performing terminations at any stage of pregnancy, except when the mother's health is at serious risk. There were no exceptions for pregnancies resulting for rape and incest. On the other side of the debate, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo enacted a law in January that codifies rights laid out in Roe v. Wade and other abortion rulings. Trump, during his State of the Union address in February, blasted Cuomo, saying, "These are living, feeling, beautiful, babies who will never get the chance to share their love and their dreams with the world." If you use Gmail, Maps, Search and other Google products, chances are the company has a lot of information about you stored on its servers. You can set up some options, including giving control to a spouse, or deleting everything automatically after your death or if your account is inactive for a certain amount of time. Here's how to tell Google what to automatically do with all of your private information if you stop using Google products for a pre-determined amount of time, like if you die. Go to myaccount.google.com. Tap "Data & personalization." Scroll down and select "Make a plan for your account." Click "Start." Google will let you start to configure what it should do if you stop using its services. Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei is reviewing its relationship with FedEx after it claimed the U.S. package delivery company, without detailed explanation, diverted two parcels destined for Huawei addresses in Asia to the United States and attempted to reroute two others. Huawei told Reuters on Friday that FedEx diverted two packages sent from Japan and addressed to Huawei in China to the United States, and attempted to divert two more packages sent from Vietnam to Huawei offices elsewhere in Asia, all without authorization, providing images of FedEx tracking records. Reuters could not verify the authenticity of the records. Shown the images of the tracking records, FedEx declined to make any comment, saying company policy prevented it from disclosing customer information. Huawei said the four packages only contained documents and "no technology," which Reuters was unable to independently confirm. Huawei declined to elaborate on why it thought the packages were diverted. Reuters was given no evidence the incident was related to the U.S. government's move to place Huawei and its affiliates on a trade blacklist in mid-May, effectively banning U.S. firms from doing business with them on security grounds. "The recent experiences where important commercial documents sent via FedEx were not delivered to their destination, and instead were either diverted to, or were requested to be diverted to, FedEx in the United States, undermines our confidence," Joe Kelly, a spokesman for Huawei, told Reuters. "We will now have to review our logistics and document delivery support requirements as a direct result of these incidents," the spokesman said. Huawei acknowledged to Reuters that one package originating in Vietnam was received by Friday, and the other was on its way, according to FedEx tracking records provided by Huawei. FedEx spokeswoman Maury Donahue told Reuters the packages were "misrouted in error" and that FedEx was not requested to divert them by any other party. "This is an isolated issue limited to a very small number of packages," said FedEx, referring to the four parcels affected. "We are aware of all shipments at issue and are working directly with our customers to return the packages to their possession." The U.S. Department of Commerce did not reply to a request for comment on whether the incident might be related to its move on May 16 to add Huawei to the so-called "Entity List," preventing it buying certain items from U.S. companies without U.S. government approval. Vice President Joe Biden (L) appears with New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo to unveil plans for new infrastructure projects on July 27, 2015 in New York City. Former Vice President Joe Biden is preparing for a June fundraising blitz in New York, where he will be joined by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the short seller Jim Chanos, CNBC has learned. The main event of Biden's trip will be at Chanos' home, according to people familiar with the matter. Cuomo will attend and introduce Biden there. They will be joined by several prominent New York real estate executives, including Bruce Mosler, chairman of global brokerage at Cushman & Wakefield, Hal Fetner, CEO of Fetner Properties, and Kenneth Fisher, a co-managing partner at Fisher Brothers, the people added. Biden's plan to hit up top Democratic donors in New York is the latest example of his aggressive fundraising approach as he contends for the right to take on President Donald Trump in 2020. Throughout the 2018 congressional midterm elections, New York City financiers combined to give just over $272 million to Democratic causes, according to the nonpartisan Center for Responsive Politics. Biden leads the sprawling Democratic 2020 primary field by large margins, according to most polling. Cuomo's decision to attend one of Biden's first New York fundraisers comes after the governor indicated to party donors that he's looking to open his formidable fundraising network to the former Delaware senator, CNBC first reported. The governor publicly threw his support behind Biden in April, saying: "I think he has the best chance of defeating President Trump, which I think is the main goal here." CNBC also reported that Chanos was slated to attend at least one of the New York fundraisers next month and that Biden is preparing for a California Bay Area money-making tour at the end of June. In his first official day in the race, Biden raised $6.3 million, more than any other 2020 Democrat did on their first day. Chanos said in February that he would back Biden for president. The reception at Chanos' home will take place the evening of June 17, and tickets are expected to go for up to $2,800 per person. Real estate executives had been planning a separate fundraising breakfast for Biden but organizers decided to fold their event into one. People close to the Biden campaign said they expect at least 150 people to attend. Consolidating the two events, they said, made it possible for Biden to save time for other events during his New York trip. About 40 donors were expected to attend the breakfast. Fetner, who was organizing the breakfast with Mosler, said in an email that he was unaware their event would be blended into the Chanos reception. "I am happy to try and help Biden in any way," Fetner said. Mosler declined to comment. RXR Realty CEO Scott Rechler, who was also part of the group looking to host the breakfast for Biden, told CNBC he's helping the former vice president in the fundraising circuit but declined to provide details on what to expect when he's in town. "I've been a long-time Biden supporter. I plan to support him when it comes to New York as well," Rechler said Tuesday. "I think the people believe Joe brings a level of foundation, stability and insights that a lot of people have been supportive of for a long time," he added. There will be at least two other smaller gatherings for Biden during his visit to New York, which could carry into June 18, sources added. Chanos and representatives for Biden and Cuomo did not return requests for comment. Biden is continuing to dominate in polls of Democratic primary voters. A Real Clear Politics polling average has Biden up 17 points over his closet rival, Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont. Biden's strength in the race has caught the attention of Trump, who has turned the former vice president into one of his biggest targets. In a tweet, Trump bashed Biden for his role in the 1994 crime bill. During the president's visit to Japan to meet with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Trump sided with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un's purported assertion about Biden's intellect. "Well, Kim Jong Un made a statement that Joe Biden is a 'low-IQ individual.' He probably is, based on his record. I think I agree with him on that," Trump said. "I can tell you Joe Biden was a disaster with his administration with President Obama. They were basically a disaster when it came to so many things, whether it was economy, whether it was military defense, no matter what it was they had a lot of problems, so I am not a fan." Tweet: Tweet: by Vladimir Rozanskij The Orthodox leader consecrated a new place of worship in Strasbourg on the day of the European elections, stating that the consturction of churches "serves so that the people understand that nothing is obtained without God". Moscow (AsiaNews) - The patriarch of Moscow Kirill (Gundjaev) has expressed his willingness to continue and relaunch the plan to build new churches in Russia, despite protests from the citizens of Ekaterinburg and other cities, opposed to occupying spaces and public parks to make room for the characteristic golden onion domes. Kirill said he wanted to "build three churches a day: the churches are not built because no one knows where to throw their money, but so that the people understand that without God nothing is obtained". According to the patriarch, the USSR proved it is impossible "to build a happy life without God", and the new churches are signs of a new hope. "We have learned a great lesson as a people," said Kirill, consecrating a new Russian church in Strasbourg on the very day of European elections. In 10 years, 10,000 new churches have been built, compared with around 6,000 left at the end of the Soviet period, not to mention the male and female monasteries. According to the head of the Russian Orthodox, in contemporary civilization people need places "where they can feel Gods the closeness, and stressed that many people who go to church forget about God "already after lunch", to take care of their humans interests. Meanwhile, the protests continue in Yekaterinburg, despite vague promises to look for another place for the church under construction in the city park; groups of people take turns demonstrating around the construction site that occupies the disputed part of the park, near the theater for dramatic arts. Surveys carried out among the population have revealed that more than 70% of the inhabitants of Yekaterinburg is contrary to the construction of the church, considering unnecessary for the city. Those in favor of the construction do not exceed 10%. The mayor Aleksandr Vysokinskij said that the decision will be taken based on the results of the official polls of the municipality, and the governor of the region, Yevgeny Kujvashev, asked to exclude the park from the ecclesiastical building plans. Parents, of course, worry about paying for college. Increasingly, their children share that concern. Over the last decade, tuition and fees jumped 44% at four-year, private colleges and by 55% at public four-year schools. As a result, student debt has reached record proportions, with $1.6 trillion in loans outstanding. Now, high school students are more cost-conscious than ever when it comes to choosing a school, according to the College Savings Foundation's 10th annual "How Youth Plan to Fund College" survey. More from Personal Finance: Costs have jumped 55% in a decade at public colleges The best schools for financial aid The latest victims of the student debt crisis parents The vast majority 83% said affordability was a factor in deciding which college to attend, up from 75% last year, the Washington-based research group said. In addition, 71% of students said costs could determine whether to attend college at all up from last year's 65%. "This has been a growing problem and yet college costs will continue to go up," said CSF Chairman Richard Polimeni. "The good news is that students are much more involved and they are better educated and more cost-conscious." To that end, 40% of students said they would attend public college and 26% said they would choose community college. A little more than 1 in 10 are considering technical schools or apprenticeship programs. (When it comes to college affordability, most students and their families are wary of pricey private schools. That may be a mistake.) Of the more than 500 sophomores, juniors and seniors polled, 54% expect to receive financial aid, including student loans, the foundation said. About the same percentage said their parents are saving for college, and 48% expect to receive money for education from relatives. In fact, income and savings from parents and students covered nearly half of an undergraduate's tab, according to Sallie Mae's most recent "How America Pays for College" report. The share of college costs covered by scholarships and grants money that does not have to be paid back made up 28% of the total expense. Borrowed money covered 24% of the tab, and contributions from grandparents or other relatives or friends paid for the remainder. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. Malaysia's economic growth is set to gain an additional 0.1 percentage points from companies moving manufacturing out of China due to the ongoing trade war between Beijing and Washington, according to an economic advisor to Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad. Experts have frequently cited Malaysia as one of the countries that could benefit from the trade conflict between the world's top two economies. That's because manufacturers based in China may look to circumvent elevated U.S. tariffs by shifting some of their operations to locations in Southeast Asia such as Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. "For us, we see some benefit. We foresee some trade diversion to Malaysia ... which is net-net quite good for us," Muhammed Abdul Khalid, a Mahathir economic advisor, told CNBC on Tuesday at the Nomura Investment Forum Asia in Singapore. The projected benefits from the trade war will add to growth momentum in Malaysia, which is picking up as consumption and investments in the country improve, said Muhammed. Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, left, is congratulated by Angela Merkel after receiving the most votes to become the next leader of the German Christian Democrats (CDU) at a federal congress of the CDU on December 7, 2018 in Hamburg, Germany. Chancellor Angela Merkel's heir apparent faced criticism from across Germany's political spectrum on Tuesday after she called for rules about expressing online opinions before elections in response to a YouTube video that criticised her party. Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, who replaced Merkel as leader of the ruling CDU last year, denied she was promoting censorship after her comments, which were prompted by a YouTube video by a popular 26-year-old blogger named Rezo. Germany's two main parties were both hammered in an election for the European Parliament over the weekend, with voters under the age of 30 in particular largely deserting the conservative CDU and its Social Democratic coalition partners, the SPD. In the video, seen by millions ahead of the vote, Rezo called on voters to reject the two parties for betraying the young by not addressing the climate crisis. "I asked myself what would be the response in this country if say 70 newspapers issued a joint appeal two days before the election, saying: 'Don't vote CDU or SPD.'" Kramp-Karrenbauer, widely known by her initials AKK, told reporters on Monday. "That would have been clear propagandising before the election, and I believe it would have unleashed a lively debate," she added. "So the question remains: what are the rules from the analogue era and how do they apply in the digital era?" She later defended her remarks: "It is absurd to assume that I want to regulate opinions," she tweeted. "But what we have to talk about are the rules that apply during election campaigns." Mohamed El-Erian, known for his widely followed views on the financial markets, will be heading off to a new endeavor next year when he takes over Queens' College in Cambridge. The chief economic advisor at Allianz will succeed Lord John Eatwell in October 2020, according to Reuters. "We are delighted with Dr El-Erian's appointment at a time of unique opportunities and formidable challenges for the University and its colleges," Richard Weber, the vice president of Queens', said in a statement. "He shares our determination to attract motivated students with outstanding potential from all backgrounds. We are confident that, under his leadership, Queens' will continue its commitment to academic excellence and world-leading research." El-Erian, 60, is an alumnus of the institution, having received a scholarship to study economics there in 1977 and ultimately graduating with first-class honors. He has been an honorary fellow there since 2013. "Having experienced the transformational power of Queens' and Cambridge, I am honored to have the opportunity to work with my colleagues to build on the College's many accomplishments under the 23-year leadership of Lord Eatwell," El-Erian said in a statement. "I am particularly privileged to return to Queens' at a time of great change, not only in social and economic affairs, but also due to exciting technological innovations that influence education and our society in so many ways." He heads there after a high-profile career at Pimco, which is owned by Allianz and had operated the largest bond fund in the world while he was at the firm. He moved to the parent company in 2014. He will continue to work with the firm until the Queens' appointment takes effect. An Allianz official said El-Erian would then be welcome to stay in whatever capacity he can manage along with his academic duties. "We look forward to Dr. El-Erian continuing to contribute to the work and success of Allianz, a company he has been affiliated with since 2000," Allianz said in a statement. Over the course of his career his views have become a fixture on CNBC and other business media. During the financial crisis, he coined the term "new normal" to describe what he anticipated as a prolonged period of slow growth for advanced economies. His professional career began at the International Monetary Fund and manager of the Harvard endowment before he went to Pimco. Mondelez International has been able to boost sales despite an "unease" among worldwide consumers, CEO Dirk Van de Put told CNBC's Jim Cramer Tuesday. "If I look at food [companies], they're doing pretty good," Van de Put he said in a "Mad Money" interview. "I would say as it relates to their overall life circumstances and how the middle class feels ... the lower class they don't feel well at the moment." Geopolitical issues, such as Great Britain's impending breakup with the European Union, is causing uncertainty and weighing on overall consumer confidence, Van de Put said. But the packaged food company has found success by adapting to changing consumer tastes, especially those of millennials, said Van de Put, who has led the company since the end of 2017. That demographic of shoppers has demanded more and more snack products, he added. "They're snacking, well, because it's a lifestyle change," he said. "Consumers are more on-the-go, they eat more out of [the] home millennials particularly don't really want to sit down and have a big meal. They want to sort of fuel themselves, and they eat 7 times a day, so snacking is really growing as a habit and also the market is growing as a consequence of that." The Illinois-based parent of Nabisco, Oreo, Philadelphia Cream Cheese and other recognizable brands recorded nearly 4% organic sales growth and more than 8% growth in emerging markets in its April quarterly earnings report. The stock has rallied nearly 30% this year. Mondelez has also relied on its research team to leverage the fact that food consumption differs in each market. Take China, where the snack manufacturer successfully rolled out an Oreo campaign and entered the wafers segment that connected with the local customer. "I don't think consumers ... want to eat the same thing all over the world, and we're trying to adapt to that," Van de Put said. "We try to get local insight and talk to [consumers], listen to them, observe their snacking behaviors and they will tell you if they like it or they don't like it and from there we develop our product." Van de Put hinted at more growth on the horizon in the domestic market with the company's premium cookie Tate's, which it began selling after acquiring Tate's Bake Shop in May 2018 for $500 million. The fast-growing brand also makes other baked goods. "It's on fire. It's really growing very fast. It still isn't in every store in the U.S., so it's huge potential," he said. "And in the store it's in, it doesn't have enough space. It needs more space because it's out of stock all the time." Shares of Mondelez fell 2.23% during the session Tuesday. The stock is $2 off its all-time high, set in mid-May. But the company said it would rethink its investment in Georgia should the bill go into effect. The statement comes as some in the film and TV industry have said they will boycott working in the state because of the law. Netflix says it will continue to film in Georgia amid controversy surrounding the state's passage of an abortion law forbidding termination of a pregnancy after an indication of a heartbeat. "We have many women working on productions in Georgia, whose rights, along with millions of others, will be severely restricted by this law," Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos said in a statement sent to CNBC on Tuesday. "It's why we will work with the ACLU and others to fight it in court. Given the legislation has not yet been implemented, we'll continue to film there while also supporting partners and artists who choose not to. Should it ever come into effect, we'd rethink our entire investment in Georgia." Last week, CNBC reported the state's up to 30% tax credits attracted more than 450 film and television projects last fiscal year, driving more than $4.5 billion in wages and having an economic impact of greater than $9.5 billion, citing Georgia's governor's office. Projects included Disney's "Black Panther" and "Avengers: Infinity War," AMC's "The Walking Dead" and Netflix's "Ozark." Netflix has also shot shows including "Queer Eye" and "The Haunting of Hill House" in Georgia in recent years. Actors including Mark Duplass have pledged to boycott filming in Georgia "until they reverse this backwards legislation," Duplass tweeted earlier this month. "Ozark" star Jason Bateman has also said he'd no longer work in Georgia if the legislation "makes it through the court system." Meanwhile, some in the production community argue that taking work from locals doesn't do much in the way of fighting state laws, instead hurting local workers. U.S. crude futures gained on Tuesday after flooding throughout the Midwest constrained crude flow from the main U.S. storage hub in Cushing, Oklahoma. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures settled at $59.14 a barrel, up 51 cents, or 0.9%, from its close on Friday before the long Memorial Day holiday weekend. "Flooding seems to have impacted distribution hubs around the United States, slowing stuff coming out of Cushing and creating a bid on WTI," said Phillip Streible, senior market strategist at RJO Futures in Chicago. Flooded areas of Arkansas and Oklahoma were bracing for more rain that will feed the already swollen Arkansas River, forecasters said on Tuesday. Up to 19 inches (48 cm) of rain have fallen so far in parts of Oklahoma over the month of May, the National Weather Service said, with more on the way. Meanwhile, Brent crude futures were largely steady, just 3 cents lower at $70.08 a barrel. The global benchmark repeatedly veered above and below the $70-mark in choppy trading, as prices were caught between fears of slowed economic growth and expectations that the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies will extend their six-month deal to curb production. OPEC and its allies including Russia, known as OPEC+, are due to meet over June 25-26 to discuss output policy, but it remains unclear whether their production pact will be extended. "Saudi Arabia seems to be in favor" of extending production cuts as U.S. output rises, said Gene McGillian, vice president of market research at Tradition Energy. "The market would have to adjust downwardly to adjust for the barrels" if OPEC ended its cut of 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd). Brent futures last week registered a decline of 4.5% and WTI slid by 6.4% for its biggest weekly loss since December. Last week's oil-price drop came after the government reported U.S. crude oil inventories have risen to 476.8 million barrels, their highest since July 2017. Weekly inventory data this week has been delayed a day due to Monday's Memorial Day holiday. However, globally supplies have tightened because of the OPEC+ cuts so far this year, with political tensions in the Middle East adding to the upward pressure on prices. U.S. sanctions have also largely taken Iranian and Venezuelan crude out of global markets. "There's a geopolitical premium that's helping to support prices," said John Kilduff, an analyst at Again Capital LLC. Investors remained concerned the escalating trade war between the United States and China could hit the global economy and dent fuel consumption. "The U.S.-China trade war isn't getting any better and it's really starting to weigh on growth," said Bill Baruch, president of Blue Line Futures in Chicago. "Demand for crude could fall." Oklahoma state prosecutors blasted Johnson & Johnson and other opioid manufacturers in the first day of a landmark opioid trial Tuesday, saying they ran a "deceitful, multibillion-dollar brainwashing campaign" that led to more than 46,000 deaths in the state over a decade. In opening arguments in the Cleveland County Courthouse in Norman, Oklahoma, state Attorney General Mike Hunter said J&J and others rushed to produce a "magic pill" in their pursuit of profits, while ignoring decades of scientific research that showed the dangers of opioids. They "embarked on a cynical, deceitful, multibillion-dollar brainwashing campaign to establish opioid analgesics as the magic drug," Hunter said in his opening remarks. "Money may not be the root of all evil but ... money can make people and businesses do bad things. Very bad things." Lawyers for the state and J&J appeared in a court Tuesday in the first state trial tackling the opioid epidemic. Hunter said J&J, OxyContin-maker Purdue Pharma and Teva Pharmaceutical all downplayed the addiction risk of opioids while overstating the benefits. Hunter said J&J was "the kingpin behind this public health emergency" by growing and importing the raw materials other drugmakers used for their products. The opioid epidemic in the U.S. has become a major political talking point, with the Trump administration vowing to crack down on illicit use. Last month, a former CEO of Rochester Drug Cooperative, one of the nation's largest drug distributors, was indicted on what prosecutors say are the first criminal charges against an executive of a drug company to stem from the opioid epidemic. In addition, the federal government reached a $20 million settlement with the company over its alleged role in the crisis. The Oklahoma trial is seen as a sort of litmus test for plaintiffs of some 1,600 cases against Purdue Pharma and other opioid manufacturers being consolidated and transferred before a judge in the Northern District of Ohio. Oklahoma claims the companies' actions created an oversupply of painkillers and a public nuisance that will cost $12.7 billion to $17.5 billion to remedy. J&J is the only defendant left in the case. Purdue Pharma, which has faced the brunt of the blame for the nationwide opioid epidemic, reached a $270 million settlement with the Oklahoma attorney general's office in March. Oklahoma also resolved its claims against Teva on Sunday for $85 million. J&J, which marketed the painkillers Duragesic and Nucynta, has previously denied any wrongdoing. It says that its marketing efforts were proper and that the state cannot prove it caused the opioid epidemic. "Our actions in the marketing and promotion of these important prescription pain medications were appropriate and responsible," J&J said in a statement. "The FDA-approved labels for these prescription pain medications provide clear information about their risks and benefits. The allegations made against our company are baseless and unsubstantiated." Watch: Oklahoma accuses Johnson & Johnson of fueling the opioid epidemic U.S. soldiers and U.S. border patrols fire tear gas towards migrants, part of a caravan of thousands traveling from Central America en route to the United States, from the U.S.side of the border fence between Mexico and the United States in Tijuana, Mexico, November 25, 2018. Arguments are likely to be scheduled for the court's term beginning in October and could fuel debates over border security and President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown during the heated months preceding the next presidential election. A decision in the case is expected by June of 2020. The question before the justices is whether federal law enforcement officers can be sued for civil rights violations in cases where there is no other legal remedy. The Supreme Court on Tuesday said it will hear a dispute involving the cross-border killing of a Mexican teenager by an American border patrol agent. The case concerns the 2010 killing of Sergio Hernandez, a 15-year-old Mexican teenager, by Jesus Mesa, then a border patrol agent. Hernandez's family has said that the teenager was unarmed at the time he was killed. Mesa was in the United States and Hernandez was in Mexico at the time of the shooting. The Department of Justice investigated the incident and decided not to pursue charges in 2012, saying that Mesa did not act inconsistently with the government's use of force guidelines. "The U.S. government regrets the loss of life in this matter," the DOJ said at the time, and noted that the shooting "occurred while smugglers attempting an illegal border crossing hurled rocks from close range." In a statement, Bob Hilliard, a partner at the law firm Hilliard Martinez Gonzales and the lead attorney representing the Hernandez family, said "the deadly practice of agents, standing in the United States and shooting innocent kids across the border must be stopped. It's never right. It's never constitutional. This is one of those times when morality and our U.S. constitution line up perfectly." The dispute raises legal questions that extend beyond the contemporary debate over the security of the southern border, according to Steve Vladeck, a law professor at the University of Texas who is one of the attorneys arguing on behalf of Hernandez's family. "Optically, the cases look like they are part and parcel of the maelstrom of current political discourse over immigration. And there is some truth to that," Vladeck said in a November interview, referring to his case and another related dispute. "But the actual legal questions are in a sense much less headline driven and much more important." Vladeck said the heart of the matter was when, if ever, federal courts should be allowed to provide damages to victims of constitutional violations by government officials. The Supreme Court heard Hernandez's case before, in 2017. The court at the time declined to decide the issue of whether Hernandez's family could sue. The court cited its decision in a separate case that term, which limited the circumstances under which a government official can be held liable for constitutional violations. WATCH: Immigration policy that reduces labor supply could be problematic At least one person is dead and 12 injured after a severe storm system including tornadoes hit the Dayton, Ohio, area late Monday night, authorities said. About 68,000 households and businesses in the state were without power Tuesday morning. Mayor Jeffrey Hazel of Celina, Ohio, about 80 miles north of Dayton, said in a news conference Tuesday that Melvin Delhanna, 81, died when the storm pushed a vehicle into his home. Mercer County Emergency Management Director Mike Robbins told NBC affiliate WDTN that at least 12 people were injured in the wake of the storms and extensive damage. The Ohio Department of Transportation used snow plows to remove debris off Interstate 75. "We probably have more than a handful of tornadoes that we need to look at on the ground throughout the region, maybe even more," said John Franks, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Wilmington, Ohio. The weather service issued 36 tornado warnings overnight Monday across the region, he added. The National Weather Service confirmed a "large and dangerous" tornado on the ground near the Dayton suburb of Trotwood in Montgomery County just after 11 p.m. Dayton resident Tenley Taghi told NBC News the tornado left her street in ruins, adding that she didn't hear any warning sirens. U.S. President Donald Trump speaks with Shinzo Abe, Japan's prime minister, during a dinner on May 26, 2019 in Tokyo, Japan. U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his four-day visit to Japan on Tuesday amid uncertainty about whether a trade deal between the two countries could come within months. Trump had indicated during the trip that there will be trade announcements between the two sides "probably in August," and that the trade gap between the two countries could be "straightened out rapidly." But Japan's economy minister sought to play down expectations for a fast deal, saying Tuesday that the U.S. leader's comments reflected Trump's hopes for quick progress in negotiations. "When you look at the exact wording of his comments, you can see that the president was voicing his hopes of swift progress in talks toward something that is mutually beneficial," Toshimitsu Motegi told reporters at a regular cabinet meeting, according to Reuters. The U.S. had a "large trade deficit" of $67.6 billion in goods with Japan in 2018, according to the office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and Trump has indicated he wants a a substantial reduction in the trade imbalance between the countries. Washington and Tokyo, led by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, have been wrangling over tariffs on automobiles and agricultural products for months. "Optically, I think the trip went off as well as either side could have expected," Matthew Goodman, senior advisor for Asian economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, told CNBC's Chery Kang on Tuesday. Addressing Trump's comment that some sort of an agreement could come by August, Goodman expressed some doubts: "It's going to take longer than that." "I think (Trump) was trying to indicate that he wouldn't put pressure on Prime Minister Abe ahead of the upper house elections in Japan in July, and so it was going to take until August to get this done," he said. However, with disagreements over agriculture and automobiles, the issues will likely take longer than a few months to be resolved, particularly given the complicated legislative process in both countries, Goodman added. Last week, Motegi, who is in charge of trade talks, said after a meeting with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer that there were still differences between the two sides that need to be ironed out. "We've agreed that we'll strive to narrow the gap, including through possibly holding working-level talks," Motegi said at the time, adding that no schedule had yet been set for future talks. Reuters contributed to this report. U.S President Donald Trump (C) and his wife Melania Trump shakes hands with service members at the Japan's navy ship Kaga on May 28, 2019 in Yokosuka, Kanagawa during his four-day state visit to Japan. U.S. President Donald Trump expects that Japan's military will reinforce U.S. forces throughout Asia and elsewhere, he said on Tuesday, as the key U.S. ally upgrades the ability of its forces to operate further from its shores. Trump's comments followed his inspection of Japan's largest warship, the Kaga, a helicopter carrier designed to carry submarine-hunting helicopters to distant waters. The vessel, which will soon be upgraded to handle F-35B short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jets, sailed to India on a flag-flying mission last year, going through the contested South China Sea, much of which is claimed by Beijing. "With this extraordinary new equipment the Kaga will help our nations defend against a range of complex threats in the region and far beyond," Trump said in a speech on the ship's hangar deck. The refit of the vessel, and its sister ship, the Izumo, is expected to bolster U.S. forces operating from Japan by providing a refuelling platform for U.S. Marine F-35Bs. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who accompanied Trump on the visit to the Kaga, has boosted defense spending since taking office in December 2012, stretching the pacifist constitution to ease limits on troop activities abroad. He also wants to revise the post-World War Two charter to recognize the existence of Japan's military. The Kaga and the Izumo are the biggest aircraft carriers Japan has operated since its wartime defeat, but its Self Defense Forces designate them as destroyers, as constitutional curbs forbid possession of weapons that could be used to attack other countries. Trump is winding up a four-day state visit meant to underscore the U.S.-Japan alliance, but shadowed by friction over Tokyo's big trade surplus with America. On Monday he told a news conference that Washington supported Japan's efforts to improve its defense capability and touted Tokyo's purchases of American military equipment. Japan last year unveiled a plan to buy 45 more F-35 stealth fighters, including some B variants, worth about $4 billion, adding to the 42 jets it has already ordered. Japan says it eventually wants to field a force of around 150 of the advanced fighter jets, as it tries to keep ahead of China's advances in military technology. "This purchase would give Japan the largest fleet of F-35s of any of our allies," Trump said on the Kaga, docked at the Yokosuka naval base near Tokyo. The base is the headquarters of the Japanese fleet and also the home port of the U.S. Seventh Fleet. Raising tariffs on all Chinese goods that enter American borders will likely hurt U.S. economic growth, which has already shown signs of slowing in recent months, according to Japanese financial firm Nomura. President Donald Trump has claimed on several occasions that the U.S. has collected billions of dollars in tariffs paid by the Chinese, which partly contributed to the strong American economy. Economics experts say that's not, in fact, how tariffs work, and Nomura's chief U.S. economist, Lewis Alexander, said Tuesday the net impact of the trade fight is likely negative for America. Fed to stay on hold Still, the potential hits to the U.S. economy don't justify a rate cut by the Fed, according to Alexander. He explained that if the U.S. moves ahead to impose 25% tariffs on all Chinese goods, core inflation in America could tick up by 0.5 percentage point over the next 12 months. Central banks globally typically cut interest rates to stimulate economic activity and stoke inflation. Lowering rates while inflation is inching up puts an economy at risk of overheating, which is often a precursor to a painful downturn. Alexander is not the only one expecting the Fed to keep interest rates steady. Carmen Reinhart, a professor at the Harvard Kennedy School, also said the U.S. central bank is right to stay patient in making any interest rate movements. "We cannot lose sight that the U.S. unemployment rate is the lowest since the 60s, the economy by any metric is still operating close to full employment," Reinhart told CNBC on Tuesday at the Nomura forum. "The Fed's wait-and-see attitude is really on the mark," she added. Watch: How do tariffs work? With the Trump administration blacklisting Huawei, China's biggest tech player, we've seen stocks suffer and trade tensions heighten. The company makes phone and networking equipment, but according to the U.S. government, it's also also a security risk for 5G networks. As the dispute continues, what does this mean for the global tech sector and the economy at large? In this week's episode of Fortt Knox, CNBC's Jon Fortt speaks with Quartz editor-in-chief Kevin Delaney about the latest from Huawei as well as the T-Mobile and Sprint merger. After Germany-based ThyssenKrupp called off joint venture with Tata Steel due to regulatory issues, the Indian steel giant is in talks with China's Hesteel Group, UK-based Excalibur Steel and Liberty House to sell its operations in Europe, said sources familiar with the matter. Tata Steel is likely to consider a complete or partial sale of its business, sources told CNBC-TV18, adding that the company may consider a joint venture as well. Last year, ThyssenKrupp and Tata steel had agreed to combine their steel operations in Europe to form the region's second-biggest steel maker. However, the German major had abandoned the plan due to opposition from European Union regulators. Hesteel Group has initiated talks immediately after ThyssenKrupp deal was called off, added the sources, requesting anonymity. "Talks with interested parties still in an exploratory stage," they said. In January this year, Hesteel, China's second-largest steel producer, had acquired 70 percent stake in Tata Steel's South-East Asia operations. In a response to CNBC-TV18 query, a Tata steel spokesperson said, We do not have any comments to offer as this is speculative and as such incorrect." Hesteel Group, Excalibur Steel were unavailable for comment, while Liberty House is yet to respond to CNBC-TV18's query. The importance of the Colorado unaffiliated voter in our states politics and policymaking has been growing over time. Just over 10 years ago, there were 3.2 million registered voters in Colorado. At that time, voter affiliation by party was evenly divided, with 33% identifying as Democratic, 33% Republican and 33% unaffiliated. Many talk about politics in Colorado as if this is still the case, but it certainly is not. Today, among the 3.7 million registered voters in our state, 41% identify as unaffiliated, 30% Democratic and 29% Republican. By sheer numbers alone, the influence of unaffiliated voters in our elections has grown, and current trends suggest it will continue to do so because among voters that are age 44 and younger, nearly 50% identify as unaffiliated. However, unaffiliated voters historically have not participated in statewide, local or odd-year elections as frequently as Democratic or Republican voters. In the 2008 presidential election, unaffiliated voters made up just 28% of total turnout in Colorado, while Democratic and Republican voters each constituted 35% of all votes cast. In the 2012 presidential election unaffiliated voters were more engaged compared to 2008, making up 32% of all votes cast, but still lagged Democratic and Republican turnout. Why? Our internal polling and focus group work over the last 10 years has found that unaffiliated voters simply are less interested in politics or policy debates than Democratic and Republican voters. For that reason, they were punching below their weight, not exerting as much influence over the political process as their numbers would suggest. Well, that all changed in the 2018 midterm election, when unaffiliated voters contributed 35% of the total votes cast in Colorado compared to Democrats making up 33% of turnout and Republican voters 32%. In light of this development, we think the most pressing question for political observers is whether unaffiliated voters will continue to demonstrate their newly found intensity when it comes to voting. If the answer to that question is yes, and here at Magellan we believe it will be a resounding yes, then it is going to be the most important development in Colorado politics for years to come. To put the growth of the unaffiliated voter in context, consider basic turnout from the past two midterm elections. In 2014, 46% of unaffiliated voters cast a ballot. In the 2018 election, 60% of them voted, a whopping 14-point increase. They are getting off the couch and engaging in the political process like they never have before. The bottom line is that the unaffiliated voter will determine which candidates win elections and which ballot measures pass or fail in 2020 and beyond. This is true in more and more regions across Colorado, including Republican the strongholds of Douglas County, Weld County and the Western Slope. Dont believe us? Let us show you the data to prove it. In the 2014 election, Republican Senate Minority Leader Chris Holbert won his Douglas County district by 18,331 votes, with 50% percent of the voters that participated in the 2014 election being Republican, 28% unaffiliated and 22% Democratic. In the 2018 election, his margin of victory was cut in half, winning by only 9,344 votes. Republican voters made up 42% of all votes cast, a decline 8 points from 2014, and not because they didnt turnout to vote. Nearly 2,000 more Republicans voted in Senator Holberts district in 2018 than in 2014. Rather, the decline in his margin of victory happened because unaffiliated voters made up 35% of all votes cast, an increase of 7 points from 2014. That growth in unaffiliated voters came almost entirely at the expense of Republicans. This phenomenon occurred all over the state, and if it continues it will put once competitive legislative districts out of reach for Republicans and will create competitive districts in areas previously considered solidly Republican. So, whats our point? Our point is the most relevant question in Colorado politics today is not if Republicans think Governor Polis and the legislature have overreached, or if Democrats are happy with the results coming from the capital. The most relevant question is: What do unaffiliated voters think? Because they are the voters who will decide the outcome of our elections in Colorado now and in the foreseeable future. The candidate, party or campaign organization that earns their vote and trust will be the ones who are successful. David Flaherty, a veteran pollster, campaign consultant and strategist, is founder and CEO of Louisville-based Magellan Strategies. Colorado Politics is published both in print and online. Our website features subscriber-only news stories daily, designed for public policy arena professionals. Member subscribers also receive the weekly print edition of our award-winning newspaper, containing outstanding features and news stories, in their mailboxes every Saturday. 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. 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 Anthony Browne is a former director of Policy Exchange and a former Europe correspondent of the Times. It is an issue that spurred such public anger that it turned middle aged housewives who had never chanted a slogan into rebels laying themselves down in front of lorries. The export of live animals in particular cows and sheep for slaughter in other EU countries became the target of mass campaigns around East Anglian ports in the 1990s. Blanket media coverage sparked popular outrage at the suffering caused to young lambs packed in lorries to cross the Channel. The Labour Government bowed to public sentiment, and promised to put an end to the practice. But then found it couldnt it would infringe EU Single Market rules. Some years later, it was even tested in court: in 2012, 45 sheep died on a vehicle going through Ramsgate, but the High Court ruled the EU regulations means that the port could not ban live animal exports. But after Brexit, the whole issue comes into play again. Seeing the opportunity from Brexit, animal welfare groups have ramped up campaigning on the issue. Last year, the Department of the Environment Food and Rural Affairs issued a call for evidence, saying it was looking at all the options. The Government is understandably worried about upsetting farmers, and so has not said it would go for a complete ban. Faced with the public anger, farmers have already changed their practices live animal exports for slaughter are now a tiny fraction of what they were 20 years ago. But for those particularly concerned about live animal exports, Brexit is their opportunity. Jesse Norman is Paymaster General and Financial Secretary to the Treasury. Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Department for Transport, and MP for Hereford. His latest book is Adam Smith: what he Thought and why it matters. In recent days, Ive been asked a lot if I will stand for Leader of the Conservative Party. Its already a crowded field, and my reply has been that the views of my constituents, party members and colleagues should shape that decision, and I will carefully consult among them. As a campaigner, over the past 15 years and more, through books and articles, in interviews and speeches, as candidate, MP, Select Committee Chairman and Minister, I have tried to make the case from first principles for a proper, classic conservatism of public service. That conservatism ties thought and action together, and I have argued for it in politics since 2006: in Compassionate Conservatism, Compassionate Economics, The Big Society and my books on the ideas and impact of Edmund Burke and Adam Smith. Why Burke and Smith? Because they wrote the operating system for representative government and open markets, for politics and political economy. Their ideas underlie my conservatism. And they have taught me a vast amount about Ireland, Scotland and the Union. The same core belief in public service has always inspired me: in 1989, when I gave up a job on Wall Street to run a charitable project giving away medical textbooks to doctors behind the Iron Curtain, helping build free institutions in Poland, Hungary and Czechoslovakia; it inspired me in 1997, when I left Barclays to do an MPhil and PhD in philosophy and teach at University College London; and over 20 years in working with astonishing organisations such as the Roundhouse in London which my father created, the Hay Festival, and many others in Herefordshire. This conservatism has inspired my actions as an MP and Minister: in running a cross-party campaign after 2010 against the Private Finance Initiative, which saved the taxpayer over 2 billiom, and my own hospital 5 million; and in framing my original critique of Crony Capitalism in 2011. It did the same when I led a successful campaign in 2012 against the then Governments Bill to abolish the House of Lords and replace it with an elected upper house; in 2013, when I did not support the Governments motion to bomb Syria, and was fired from the Number 10 Policy Board; and in 2014 ,when I led colleagues across the House in stopping the Speaker from selecting his personal candidate, Carol Mills, as the Clerk of the Commons. And my conservatism has shaped my decision not to reveal my EU Referendum vote. It was obvious Brexit would affect people in hugely different ways, and that it would be incredibly divisive, as I said at the time. I felt I could best serve people by acting for them as a whole. The same is true today. As an MP, I have voted consistently for Brexit, and without delay. My constituency voted to leave, like the country at large, over three years ago. It is simply not good enough that we have still not moved on since then. But for myself, I have never campaigned negatively, and I refuse to be drawn into the anger and hostility of the wider Brexit debate. Politics today is dying for lack of friendliness, warmth and decency. Everyone deserves to be heard, calmly, respectfully and with moderation. Some might say that these campaigns and views were ill advised, though I believe each has been vindicated. But the point is that they reflected a willingness to lead, and a desire to do what was right not what was expedient, regardless of the consequences to me personally. The same has been true in my constituency; I campaigned for nearly four years to take a Liberal Democrat seat; I won 50 per cent of the vote in 2015/17; and I have led local efforts for ten years to establish NMITE, a pioneering and nationally transformative tech and engineering university. Throughout all this, my credo has always been: a belief in trusting others; a sense of universal goodwill, reaching across factions and parties; an unwillingness to rush to judgement; a desire to make the argument; a sense of energy; and great optimism about the future. As a country, we face very serious challenges today: of climate change, productivity, mass migration, terrorism, cybersecurity, great power conflict, AI, education, housing, identity, social division and injustice, inequality and much else. Our open market capitalist system is not working very well, and it needs a vigorous reboot. Our democracy and public institutions are under serious threat, and require vigorous and positive defence. These issues will be with us long after the Brexit debate has ended. The UK has a profound opportunity, and a duty, to address these challenges: through our history, culture, music, arts and science; through our Union, our language, location and law; and through our inclusive, forward-looking and entrepreneurial spirit. But in addressing these issues, good policy is not enough. We must choose a leader not for three months, but for three years or more. The world is complex, and cannot be reduced to slogans. To be effective, policy must be linked to principle, and to personal energy. And it must come from somewhere authentic and good. Real conservatism is based on a simple but profound idea: to preserve what is of value. Centrally, that means freedom of thought, speech and action. Conservatism thus has human freedom, and so responsibility, at its heart. But real conservatism goes deeper than this, to the nature of our humanity itself. For conservatives, a human being is not simply a compendium of wants, and human happiness and human flourishing are not simply a matter of satisfying individual desires. The human self is an active, linking social force, not the passive vehicle for happiness of the utilitarians, or the isolated individual atom of much modern economics. Conservatism thus sets itself against materialism and liberal individualism. For conservatives, the purpose of politics is to preserve a social order which addresses the needs of everyone, of generations past, present and future: what Burke called a partnership between those who are living, those who are dead and those who are to be born. The we of conservatism is thus maximally inclusive: it is everyone in our society, past, present and future; it embraces every race, creed, religion, ethnicity, gender, wealth or status, and perhaps all that depend on us. It respects old wisdom, and future generations. Society is a trust, it gives us freedom, and it is our duty to preserve, enhance and pass it on to our children and grandchildren. This is the true meaning of One Nation conservatism, long before Disraeli and Baldwin gave it voice; it runs far wider than they ever imagined. The paradox of conservatism is thus thatagainst the caricaturesit is intrinsically modest. It is an antidote to generational or individual arrogance, materialism and selfishness. It is hostile to injustice, since injustice can never be of social value. Nor is true conservatism naive about markets. It understands that open markets are the greatest route to prosperity and social advance ever created; but that effective competition rests on trust and law and pro-competitive policies for which the state is essential. We should be ambitious not for ourselves, but for our country: for the future of this extraordinary, warm, funny, tolerant, open, traditional, kind, inclusive, mad, conflicted, joyous United Kingdom of ours, from Lands End to John OGroats, Enniskillen to the Wash. If you believe in this idea of conservatism; if you want new faces at the table; if you share these ambitions; if you agree about the central importance, now more than ever, of history and philosophy and substantive debate in politics; then please say so. Now is the time for moderate, decent people to speak up. Let us start the long process of reconstruction. It is incumbent upon all politiciansMinisters or backbenchers, across political dividesto step up and deliver a sane and workable Brexit for our country. But it is no less important, now more than ever in recent times, that all the candidates for the leadership should be able to set out not just their own policy ideas, beliefs and experience, but the deeper Conservative principles and purpose that underlie them. Whatever ones politics, we need the candidates to use the public platform, the hustings, the debates, the soapbox and interviews not to bring each other down but to build mutual understanding and trust and love, to find and renew a sense of common purpose, for the longer term. Henry Newman is Director of Open Europe. The European election results have overturned politics here in the UK. In some respects, nothing has changed. The country was split down the middle by the 2016 Brexit referendum, and these elections show that we are still split. Its hard to draw the conclusion from these results that huge numbers of people across the country have fundamentally changed their minds on Brexit. What does seem to be happening is an increasing polarisation of our politics and a move away from the two mainstream parties. European elections are not a general election, and can often be poor predictors of Westminster performance. UKIP topped the poll in 2014, but failed to win a single seat in the 2015 election. Turnout is far lower and the electoral system for European elections is different. The public are sophisticated enough to understand that its easier to use these polls to send a message. But political messages ought to be heard by our politicians, not ignored. The question is what was the message? There was a huge fragmentation, mirroring in some ways the political fragmentation seen right across Europe, but arguably in an even more extreme fashion. In fact, across Europe the so-called populists did somewhat less well than many had predicted. Yes, Marine Le Pens National Rally topped the French poll, as did Matteo Salvinis League in Italy. And the centrist EPP and S&D groups lost their joint majority in the European Parliament for the first time ever. But the National Rallys predecessor actually won a slightly higher vote share in the 2014 elections in France, while in Italy, the centre-left PD pushed the Five Star movement into third place. The clear winner of the British elections was the Brexit Party, which went from nowhere at the start of the year, to winning just shy of a third of the vote share. This result could have been even higher if turnout in leave areas had matched those of the remain heartlands. The Brexit Party won 29 MEPs, roughly double that of the next biggest party, the Liberal Democrats, which secured 16. The Conservative Party was pushed into fifth place, with a disastrous result of just nine per cent of the votes. They managed, however, to return four MEPs, avoiding the total wipe-out some had expected. But Labours result was also atrocious coming third overall, securing no MEP in Scotland, and losing to the Brexit Party and Plaid in Wales. In fact, the Brexit Party came in first in 19 out of 22 council areas in Wales, an important reminder that Brexit support is not constrained to England. They even returned an MEP in Scotland, often caricatured as an exclusively Remain region. In Northern Ireland the UUP lost their seat, which was taken by the Alliance. The obvious message from these elections is that the electorate is divided and in an increasingly bitter fashion. If these exact results were replicated in Westminster elections (and thats a big if) it would lead to a hung Parliament, with the Brexit Party by far the biggest bloc but short of a majority. Opinion polls of general election voter intentions point to a very divided Commons, with a path to power for a Jeremy Corbyn Government propped up by the SNP and perhaps the Liberal Democrats. If theres a General Election before Brexit is secured, David Camerons much derided warning of a coalition of chaos could come true. Theres an open question now about how Westminster will respond to these elections. In Greece the jump in support for the opposition New Democracy has led to a new general election. Thats unlikely to happen here. But both the Conservative Party and the Liberal Democrats are soon to choose a new leader. Meanwhile, Labour is having increasingly public rows about whether or not to shift direction on Brexit. The second referendum campaign are desperate to see these results as the revanchism of Remain. Its pretty hard to sustain that argument. I spent hours on Sunday night sitting next to Tom Baldwin and other spokespeople for the Peoples Vote campaign in the Sky News studio. They had pages and pages of carefully pre-scripted Lines To Take for their on-air spin. My favourite dubious interpretation is their argument that if you add together the vote share of the Libs, Labour, Greens, Change UK, SNP and Plaid, you get a larger result than the pro-Brexit parties. But this only works if you count Labour as a pro-Remain party. The fatal flaw in that is that Alastair Campbell himself declared that he voted Lib Dem because he didnt like think Labour was unambiguously pushing a referendum re-run. Say you were waking up this morning in Paris, Brussels or Berlin. You would have been preoccupied by your own domestic results yesterday and the implications for the power balance in the European institutions, and the read across into national politics. Perhaps you might start to turn to Britain today. Would you really look at the incredible success of Nigel Farage and think Ah, yes. If Britain just had a second referendum, we could all live happily ever after as EU members? Ken Clarke summed it up recently when he argued that there was now no chance of Britain being a stable member of the EU. No wonder Nathalie Loiseau until recently French Europe Minister, and now an MEP for Emmanuel Macrons party expressed doubts that a second Brexit referendum would reach a different conclusion from the first. She suggested that it would be better for Britain to just leave. I expect more and more European capitals will come to a similar view. James Frayne is Director of Public First and author of Meet the People, a guide to moving public opinion. Can they lead the Party to General Election victory? This is the second most important question in the leadership debate. How will they get us out of the EU by the end of October? is top and of course the two are linked. Party members know theyll be electing a Prime Minister who will be fighting another election in three years time, max. David Cameron beat David Davis in 2005 almost entirely because members put concerns about his ideological vacuity aside and decided he was a big electoral asset; this same contention would likely have propelled Theresa May into Number 10 against Andrea Leadsom in 2016. Members will be asking the same question this time, but the context is different, as the editor of this site explained yesterday. Why cant we just run some polls and watch some of Frank Luntzs dial group jamborees on Newsnight (which so badly hurt Davis in 2005)? Because this time, the leadership candidates face an immediate conundrum. They absolutely have to give a commitment to leaving the EU by the end of October. If they dont, they wont win the members vote and theyd inherit a party on 20 points in the polls and heading further south. And committing to leave on this timetable requires convincing voters they really mean it which in turn implies theyd have to publicly accept (how ever reluctantly) a No Deal exit. How, otherwise, could they absolutely guarantee Britain will leave? But most people dont support a no deal exit and it is hard to imagine them coming around to such a proposition. A decent chunk of legacy Leave voters are nervous about No Deal, as well as the overwhelming majority of legacy Remain voters. This all means the polls are going to be all over the place; success on Brexit for some voters, will be terrible failure for other voters. We therefore need other measures of potential electoral attractiveness. I set out five big issues to consider here. Firstly, members should be looking closely at how leadership candidates talk about No Deal. Those that rule out the possibility of No Deal entirely should be discarded as non-serious. Members and voters that have deserted the Party will simply stay with Nigel Farage and the Conservatives will have no viable electoral future; but those that embrace it enthusiastically should set off alarm bells because of how it will alienate those scared or repulsed by it. Candidates must present No Deal as an option they guarantee they will turn to but only having exhausted other options and further negotiation. Mays experience is instructive here: initially, she persuaded voters she was serious about accepting No Deal and her numbers held up; over time, it became clear this wasnt true and she was never forgiven. This takes us to a second issue: how they talk about and deal with the EU. Eurosceptics like Nigel Farage have succeeded where no one else did before: they made the EU popular amongst a massive proportion of the British public. Before a referendum was called, almost nobody actually liked the EU; even five years ago it was impossible to imagine a physical march for the EU. Even pro-Europeans thought it was excessively bureaucratic, corrupt and undemocratic. But they thought it was necessary. The referendum campaign, and above all its aftermath dominated as it has been by Farage has linked pro-Europeanism in many of the publics mind with anti-extremism and anti-racism. Many legacy Remain voters now profess to love the EU because they fear the motives of Leave voters (wrongly, but thats life). Leadership candidates have got to find a way of talking about the EU and its leaders with respect. They need to lay it on thick that, while the EU isnt for us, theyre close allies that were committed to working with for our mutual defence and prosperity. They need to look as different from Farage as its possible to be. Which takes us to a closely-related third issue: how they talk about immigration. The referendum was dominated by the question of immigration. While Vote Leaves rhetoric and proposed policies were controlled, they still hit the issue hard in the final weeks (their ads were brutal on the issue) and this put many voters off. And, again, Farages stuff was occasionally appalling. Leadership candidates must find a way of healing the wounds on this issue forging a post-EU immigration policy that reflects new controls but is fundamentally liberal and highly encouraging of high-skilled migrants from across the world. This is where the public is in any case (as Open Europes research showed). The Partys inability to grasp this point is strange. Mays obsession with numbers was in near total opposition to public opinion here. Boris Johnson has previously advocated a highly liberal immigration policy and Michael Gove has announced new policies which emphasise generosity. This is encouraging. The fourth issue is how creative the candidates are in explaining how theyd use new freedoms available post-exit. From a campaign perspective, this was Mays biggest failing. She simply never articulated how things might be better outside the EU and, as others have described, she talked about Brexit entirely through the prism of risk mitigation. But practically no one else in Government talked persuasively about life outside the EU either. Serious candidates have to change this. We will never know how many voters the Government could have won over since 2016 had they created such a platform. (Anthony Browne has been addressing this over the last several days on this site). The fifth issue is what they say about the Conservatives electoral priorities. As even occasional readers of this column will know, I believe the Party should create a campaigning and governing platform that prioritises working class and lower middle class voters in provincial England. I believe they should see the broad coalition of Leave voters as their new core. Because so few Conservative commentators ever meet ordinary people, and because many view provincial England with disdain, they assume that this means some sort of ultra-right-wing, hardcore traditional approach when it means nothing of the sort. Rather, it means improving public services, above all the NHS, ensuring work pays properly and certainly more than welfare, keeping taxes as low as possible and keeping the cost of living down, making it easier to buy a house, and keeping streets safe. This is not to say that all candidates must accept these conclusions; they and others might strongly and rationally disagree with this approach and might indeed think that all of these columns are unsophisticated rubbish. The point is that we should expect candidates that want to portray themselves as potential winners should have a clear and reasoned electoral strategy. It isnt enough simply to say we have to appeal to young people because theyre our future, or that we have to appeal to people in cities because theyre growing. In summary, asking whether candidates can win demands they explain how theyd deliver Brexit in the least divisive way possible and who they think the Partys natural voters are. (For some more on this, check out George Trefgarnes excellent piece on CapX and the editors excellent piece on this site). Theres actually another issue to throw in at the end. Does the candidate seem ridiculous? There are some that are entering the campaign who, when their names are raised, provoke laughter (in a bad way). Members should ask around. If the candidates name makes people laugh (in a bad way) then its probably best not to vote for them. 100% Website piratesforums.co uses latest and advanced technologies like: JQuery. It supports HTTPS and GZIP compression. The main html page has a size of 114191 bytes (111.51 kb uncompressed) and 19795 bytes (19.33 kb compressed). This CoolSocial report was updated on 2021-01-07, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want. 100% Website snoekproducts.nl uses latest and advanced technologies like: Boostrap. It supports HTTPS and GZIP compression. The main html page has a size of 154781 bytes (151.15 kb uncompressed) and 22452 bytes (21.93 kb compressed). This CoolSocial report was updated on 2021-10-10, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want. Corning Incorporated (NYSE: GLW) today hosted an opening ceremony for its new Environmental Technologies manufacturing facility in the Hefei Xinzhan Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone in the Anhui Province, China. The new Hefei facility is equipped to produce substrates and particulate filters for automotive emissions control, with initial production focused on meeting customer orders for the companys gasoline particulate filter (GPF) product line, Corning DuraTrap GC filters. Today marks an important milestone for Cornings commitment to Chinas clean-air initiatives and to our automotive customers in the region, said Hal Nelson, senior vice president and general manager, Corning Environmental Technologies. This new state-of-the-art facility is critical to meet demand for innovative emissions control solutions in the worlds largest auto market. Introducing particulate filters in gasoline systems is an important engineering advancement for clean-vehicle technology in China. Gasoline engines produce a high number of fine particulates, such as PM 2.5, that impact air quality and human health. DuraTrap GC filters are engineered specifically for gasoline engines, with proven capability to deliver high filtration efficiency of fine particulates. Demand for these new components is growing as automakers prepare to meet the China 6 automotive emissions standard for gasoline vehicles. Once China 6 regulations are fully implemented in 2023, most gasoline vehicles in China will require a gasoline particulate filter. China will be the second market globally, after Europe, where particulate filtration of gasoline engine exhaust has been introduced. Corning expects its gasoline particulate filter business to add an estimated $500 million in annual sales once emissions regulations are fully adopted in both markets. Corning Environmental Technologies (Hefei) Co., Ltd, is Cornings second Environmental Technologies production facility in China. Corning also operates a facility in Shanghai, Corning (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. which began operations in 2000. These facilities enable Corning to keep pace with Chinas growing emissions control needs and demonstrate its support of Chinas automotive industry and environmental objectives. Corning is a leading supplier of advanced cellular ceramic substrates and ceramic particulate filters for the world's major manufacturers of gasoline and diesel vehicles. The company invented an economical, high-performance, cellular ceramic substrate in the early 1970s that is now the standard for catalytic converters worldwide. In 1978, Corning developed the cellular ceramic particulate filter to remove soot from diesel emissions. Corning continues to leverage its expertise in material science and manufacturing to develop market-leading emissions control solutions that help our customers meet new emissions standards and enable cleaner air worldwide. Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements The statements contained in this release that are not historical facts or information and contain words such as will, believe, anticipate, expect, intend, plan, seek, see, would, and target and similar expressions are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and include estimates and assumptions related to economic, competitive and legislative developments. Such statements relate to future events that by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain. These estimates are subject to change and uncertainty which are, in many instances, beyond our control. There can be no assurance that future developments will be in accordance with managements expectations. Actual results could differ materially from those expected by us, depending on the outcome of various factors. We do not undertake to update forward-looking statements. Some of the risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: the effects of acquisitions, dispositions and other similar transactions, global business, financial, economic and political conditions; tariffs and import duties; currency fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and other currencies, primarily the Japanese yen, euro, Chinese yuan and South Korean won; product demand and industry capacity; competitive products and pricing; availability and costs of critical components and materials; new product development and commercialization; order activity and demand from major customers; the amount and timing of our cash flows and earnings and other conditions, which may affect our ability to pay our quarterly dividend at the planned level or to repurchase shares at planned levels; possible disruption in commercial activities due to terrorist activity, cyber-attack, armed conflict, political or financial instability, natural disasters, or major health concerns; unanticipated disruption to equipment, facilities, IT systems or operations; effect of regulatory and legal developments; ability to pace capital spending to anticipated levels of customer demand; rate of technology change; ability to enforce patents and protect intellectual property and trade secrets; adverse litigation; product and components performance issues; retention of key personnel; customer ability, most notably in the Display Technologies segment, to maintain profitable operations and obtain financing to fund their ongoing operations and manufacturing expansions and pay their receivables when due; loss of significant customers; changes in tax laws and regulations including the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017; the impacts of audits by taxing authorities; and the potential impact of legislation, government regulations, and other government action and investigations. For a complete listing of risks and other factors, please reference the risk factors and forward-looking statements described in our annual reports on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Web Disclosure In accordance with guidance provided by the SEC regarding the use of company websites and social media channels to disclose material information, Corning Incorporated (Corning) wishes to notify investors, media, and other interested parties that it uses its website (http://www.corning.com/worldwide/en/about-us/news-events.html) to publish important information about the company, including information that may be deemed material to investors, or supplemental to information contained in this or other press releases. The list of websites and social media channels that the company uses may be updated on Cornings media and website from time to time. Corning encourages investors, media, and other interested parties to review the information Corning may publish through its website and social media channels as described above, in addition to the companys SEC filings, press releases, conference calls, and webcasts. About Corning Incorporated Corning (www.corning.com) is one of the world's leading innovators in materials science, with a more than 165-year track record of life-changing inventions. Corning applies its unparalleled expertise in glass science, ceramic science, and optical physics along with its deep manufacturing and engineering capabilities to develop category-defining products that transform industries and enhance people's lives. Corning succeeds through sustained investment in RD&E, a unique combination of material and process innovation, and deep, trust-based relationships with customers who are global leaders in their industries. Corning's capabilities are versatile and synergistic, which allows the company to evolve to meet changing market needs, while also helping our customers capture new opportunities in dynamic industries. Today, Corning's markets include optical communications, mobile consumer electronics, display technology, automotive, and life sciences vessels. Corning's industry-leading products include damage-resistant cover glass for mobile devices; precision glass for advanced displays; optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions for state-of-the-art communications networks; trusted products to accelerate drug discovery and delivery; and clean-air technologies for cars and trucks. It was Sunday morning, and calm prevailed as I entered our church sanctuary. Inside the building was the beautiful sight of people worshipping God. I looked forward to preaching as it was Easter Sunday the day we celebrate the glorious Resurrection. The first person to meet me was one of our young leaders who said, Shocking, isnt it, Pastor? His tone of voice and facial expression told me something serious had happened. To my horror, I learned bombs had gone off in two churches a short while earlier. Shortly thereafter, another church and three tourist hotels were devastated by suicide bombers. The damage was extensive and the death toll kept rising. It was an Easter never to be forgotten by Christians. A total of eight bombs were exploded by suicide bombers that day. As Sri Lanka slowly struggles to come back to a state of normalcy, the final death toll stands at over 250 with more than 500 injured. A heavy price to pay! As I reflect on what happened, I wonder how Christians and the Church should react to attacks of this nature, which are becoming all too frequent around the world. After the Sri Lanka bombings, we heard of gun attacks on two churches in Burkina Faso. Over 10 people were killed, including possibly two Pastors. This article by the BBC indicates that the persecution Christians are facing today could be reaching alarming levels. So, after some discussion with other leaders, here are seven suggestions on how we could respond to such events: Photo Credit: Unsplash/The-Roaming-Platypus Despite what many of us might think, there are a lot fewer startups than there used to be. According to the Brookings Institution, the number of fledgling companies is in decline across nearly every industry in the United States. Overall, that drop in numbers adds to a pattern of declining startup numbers over the past 13 years. And this is a problem for all of us, because as startups percentage of the economy grows smaller and smaller, they become less of a true economic-growth engine. Surprisingly, one segment here -- the one that includes collaboration between startups and local governments -- hasnt stalled at all in terms of numbers. And atitudes have become more collaborative. But these partnerships aren't panning out in the long run. So, why is that? And how do we get things back on track? To fuel innovation, well need to make startups a lot more viable. As National Small Business Month draws to a close, this is a good time to talk about this issue. Not just launching, but sustaining Lets consider technology startups, as they have a particularly robust track record. According to data from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, the number of tech startups actually grew by 47 percent and their own employment increased by 20 percent between 2007 and 2016. Many factors may have contributed to this growth, including the willingness of new tech startups to accept funding from public-private partnerships. Resource-strapped companies often look toward government programs to provide those resources, and these companies promise jobs and economic growth in return. However, opportunities with public-private partnerships often revolve more around launching new businesses rather than sustaining them over the long term. Its clear that the funding is already there,but businesses need to seek the right help and speak up about this sustainability problem. Related: Want Your Seed-Stage Startup to Be Fundable? Check These 4 Boxes. Growing gracefully Launch Tennessee is a great example of how strategic support from a public-private state partnership can help startups grow gracefully. The state gives qualifying entrepreneurs access to capital and business guidance, with the overarching goal to help companies make it through the turbulent early stages. If all goes according to plan, theyll become sustainable businesses and boost the states economy. The organization also works to develop talent pipelines, including a technology track. To achieve this, it offers my nonprofit company, LaunchCodes, free part-time computer programming course to workers looking for a career switch. Tennessees holistic view is a great idea -- but not enough states are taking similar steps. In fact, Tennessee is one of the only states with a formal infrastructure in place for supporting entrepreneurs. Although we need to expand this infrastructure across local, state and federal governments as a whole, its also critical to examine its scope. Helping startups grow into healthy, mature companies over the long run is much more sustainable than merely fostering them through the early stages, then releasing them into the wild. Why talent pipelines matter Growing sustainable companies requires well-rounded workforce development programs similar to Launch Tennessees. Coastal U.S. startups typically have access to much deeper talent pools than do ones in, say, inland states. Because coastal startups also often operate in areas with vibrant venture capitalist ecosystems, its no surprise that many of todays most successful startups got their start in Silicon Valley or New York City. Related: The Top 7 Cities Competing With Silicon Valley for Tech Entrepreneurs Elsewhere, many startups move (or fail) simply because of this lack of local talent. Public-private partnerships, however, offer a way to build healthier talent pipelines across the country by ensuring that geography isnt a limitation. Governments, in fact, often have a stronger ability to develop the workforce their local economies need: States like Michigan and New Hampshire are already looking to build on public-private partnerships that can help out. No startup has to be isolated. For startups, having access to support is key for growth -- but its even more critical to seek out the right help at the right time. Young companies can start by tapping public-private partnerships for assistance with everything from workforce-development pipelines to skills-training programs. By using these resources, startups can mature past their initial growing pains and become established employers; at that point, public-private partnerships can provide meaningful support to them as rapidly scaling startups. Consider the following common challenges, all of which can be mediated through strategic support from public-private partnerships: 1. When finding great talent feels like a never-ending journey The combination of low unemployment and high demand for skilled workers makes it extremely challenging for startups to find the right talent as they grow. Instead of hunting for the elusive perfect candidate, though, startups can check the pipelines governments have already created. Louisianas LED FastStart training program, for example, uses learning tech to keep its workforce-evelopment programs up to date and agile. Many governments are involved with workforce development in some capacity -- and as the knowledge economy continues to expand, government-retraining programs are likely to increase. 2. When investments are few and far between Without a steady stream of cash, its impossible for early-stage startups to get off the ground and for larger startups to sustain operations. Statista reported that in 29 percent of cases it surveyed, startups failed because they simply ran out of money. So every funding source needs to considered. Related: The Secret to Bolstering Your Startup on a Lean Budget Rather than just courting venture capitalists, companies should look for programs that connect them with funding from public-private partnerships. At the least, such funding often has fewer strings attached than do private investments alone. To find public-private partnership funding, companies should search for economic development organizations within their specific city, region or state. The U.S. Economic Development Administrations online portal is a great place to start. 3. When building brand awareness seems tricky Generally speaking, people -- think customers, suppliers, competitors and other players in the local market -- need to know about a startup in order for it to grow, right? Thankfully, governments (and chambers of commerce in particular) are great at facilitating these connections for free. For example, some programs hosted by StartupAmsterdam in the Netherlands serve primarily as networking events for local startups. Because young startups are often on a bootstrapping budget, they have no reason not to participate in such free opportunities. In sum, launching a startup is an incredible achievement, but sustaining it is the hardest part. Independence -- though it provides a feeling of accomplishment -- is always an obstacle. Instead of aiming only for investment from venture capitalists, young companies should seek out ways to work with public-private partnerships. Unlike what happens with private investors, founders working with public partners will be free to focus on building their business from where it stands rather than shaking up its entire business model. Related: A Public-Private Partnership Could Be Key to Your Startup's Survival How to Raise Money Without Lying No Money to Start? No Problem. Try These 5 Options to Fund Your Business. Copyright 2019 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved BRIDGEPORT The penultimate stop of evangelist Rev. Franklin Grahams Decision America Tour rolled through Seaside Park on Tuesday night, and though police prepared for trouble, the event went off without any major flashpoints. A handful of protesters held signs at the parks entrance to greet the crowd that flocked there, which a spokesperson for Graham estimated at 3,600. Police kept a watchful eye, but there were no incidents between protesters and those attending Grahams event, Police Chief Armando Perez said. Graham, son of famed preacher Billy Graham, said in an interview before the event that he stopped in Bridgeport because We just felt that there was a spiritual need here in this city, and there was a venue. We like doing these things outside. Specifically, Graham mentioned crime and drugs as a demonstration of the need for people to embrace Christianity. His Northeast tour began in Portland, Maine, on May 19 and is scheduled to end in Syracuse, N.Y., on Thursday. If you just look at the crime this city has, the problems in the Northeast of drugs are huge, theyre much higher than the national average, he said. I think for a lot of people, theyre just losing hope. I want them to know that God loves them, Gods got a plan for their life, Gods willing to forgive our sins if were willing to put our faith and trust in his son Jesus Christ. Cathy Streit, a Redding resident, attended Tuesdays event after working with Grahams Samaritans Purse charity group to help hurricane victims in North Carolina last year. It was one of the most beautiful experiences in my life, Streit said of the disaster relief work organized by Grahams organization. The foundation of my life is my faith, and always has been. But not all those who went to Seaside Park on Tuesday were there to praise Graham, who has courted controversy in the past with remarks about gay rights and support of President Donald Trump. Among those protesting was Diane Keefe, a Quaker from Norwalk, who stood behind a sign that said Thou shalt not stand idly by. She pointed to Grahams opposition to efforts banning conversion therapy, which she said is harmful to gay people. John Levin, also from Norwalk, agreed. He held up a sign that said Teach tolerance. He also criticized Graham for his past remarks about gays. As if people actually have a choice in their sexual orientation, Levin said. Graham said the protesters were being Christian-phobic. This isnt a political rally, this is just to tell people how to begin a relationship with God, he said. Theyre guilty of what theyre accusing me of. I dont hate homosexuals, Im not afraid of homosexuals, but I dont agree, Graham said. And if I dont agree with them then they call me names. He referenced the Bible to support his views. Keefe pointed to Bible verses that were used in the past by slaveholders to justify their views. Other verses prohibit wearing different fabrics. Graham said such criticisms are nit-picking and dont provide full context. He said the Bible is very clear, in multiple passages, in its condemnations of homosexuality. The Bible says a whole bunch of different things, Levin said. Do we really want to be using a Bronze Age storybook and lifestyle guide as the only directive of how we live our lives today and organize our society and secular government? God, I hope not. Streit said she went to Tuesdays event to hear about hope and about love, because thats what the Christian faith is all about. And people who oppose Christianity, they dont understand that it is all about love, she said. Keefe said that attitude isnt reflected in Grahams past comments. I believe that Christianity needs to be more defined by the message of peace and tolerance and love and that conversion therapy has been shown to hurt people, she said. We need to be focused on cultivating peace in the world instead of telling other people what to do in their bedrooms. ANSONIA A woman was taken to the hospital Tuesday afternoon after her car crashed into a wall in front of the Valley YMCA. The accident was reported at 4:17 p.m. at the Y building at 12 State St., across the street from the Ansonia Armory. Connecticut researchers have found a direct link between the percentage of ticks infected with disease-causing bacteria and the incidence of Lyme disease among humans in the state. More surprisingly, the state also found that the counties whose residents submit the most ticks to the state for testing namely New Haven and Fairfield arent the ones with the highest rates of infected ticks or Lyme disease. In a recently published study in the journal Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases, a team of researchers at the New Haven-based Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station found a strong relationship between the prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, in nymphal (or young) ticks submitted by state residents for testing, and the subsequent incidence of Lyme disease in humans across the state. The findings were based on analysis of more than 30,000 blacklegged tick (also known as deer tick) submissions by state residents to the Agricultural Experiment Stations Tick Testing Laboratory between 2007 and 2017. The study really does underscore the value of the state-supported tick-testing program, said Dr. Theodore Andreadis, director of the agricultural experiment station. When we see a high infection rate in the ticks brought in to us, it really a good reference for whats going on out there. Researchers also found that the prevalence of tick infection was greater among ticks submitted from the states less populous counties Windham, Tolland and New London than those coming from the more populous New Haven and Fairfield counties. The prevalence of infection is high in these areas from which we arent receiving a lot of ticks, said Dr. Goudarz Molaei, a research scientist and senior author on the paper who also directs the CAES Tick Testing Program. He said the bulk of ticks the state receives for testing come from Fairfield and New Haven counties, which have both lower rates of infected ticks and Lyme disease in humans than Windham, Tolland and New London counties. So far this season, 1,700 to 1,800 ticks have been submitted for testing, and about 40 percent of those tested were found to be infected with Lyme disease or another tick-borne illness. Molaei said the research also confirmed the role of young, or nymphal, ticks in spreading Lyme disease, even though infection rates among adults are higher. The research showed that annual infection rates in nymphal ticks ranged from 15 to 41 percent with a 20-year average of 21 percent, while infection rates in adult ticks ranged from 27 to 39 percent with annul mean of 33 percent. Despite the higher infection rates in adults, nymphal ticks are a concern because their small size makes them harder to detect, and the nymphs attach and feed quickly. Nymphs are playing an important role in making people sick, Molaei said. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Lyme disease is the most commonly reported tick-borne disease in the United States. It affects about 329,000 people annually. The illness can cause severe damage to joints and the nervous system. In 2017, Connecticut had the eighth highest incident rate of Lyme disease per 100,000 residents of all the states, and Connecticut also is one of the 14 states from which nearly 95 percent of Lyme disease cases in the United States are reported. Staff file photo / ST State Police dealt with slightly fewer accidents and made about half the number of operating under the influence and speeding arrests Memorial Day weekend compared to last year, according to statistics provided by the agency. Overall from Friday to Monday, state police dealt with 6,283 calls for service this Memorial Day weekend, including one fatal motorcycle crash that occurred Monday at around 4 p.m. A physician had an experience that occurred during her medical training. She received a low grade from her supervising physician. It took her by surprise because she knew she was one of the best interns in her group. She asked her supervisor for an explanation, and he replied that she didnt know as much as the others. She knew from her day-to-day dealings with her peers that she was one of the most knowledgeable, not the least. So, she asked him what evidence had led him to his conclusion. And he told her, You ask too many questions. First, wouldnt you want a physician who was well trained and asked questions? And thenis that the time to change what youre doing, throw in the towel or keep going? As a leader, perseverance is a quality that moves you from the IMpossible to the possible. Personally, I have started and re-started so many times in my life, that I cant even remember all the chances I have taken along the way. Let me share just some of the biggies. I started a new career in the insurance industry at the age of forty, as a single mom, knowing nothing about that industry. I came through the ranks of insurance agents as one of the only women, and I became an agency manager without ever having formal training or mentoring. Our agency had no presence in North Carolina, and I was asked to build an agency there. For 47 weeks, I traveled each week from Connecticut to North Carolina to establish an agency before moving there. Two years later I was asked to move to Dallas to take a corporate position building sales training, not knowing a soul there. I resigned from that big position to jump into the unknown again. I started my company, Selling In A Skirt, at the age of fifty-five and branched waaaay outside my comfort zone. Perseverance seemed to be my middle name. If I could do it all over, would I do it differently? No. Did I make mistakes? Definitely. Were the risks worth the rewards? Absolutely! Did I ever want to quitlet me count the waysand I never did. For me, perseverance was my only option. Since taking action can entail risk, asking yourself these three questions may help you assess whether you want to dive in or head for the hills. What might I gain by taking this risk? If I choose to take this risk, how and in what ways might this cost me? If I choose to NOT take this risk, how and in what ways might this cost me? While it is easy to say, no risk, no reward, we all know that nothing in life is guaranteed. Even if you take a risk, there may not be an immediately obvious or sizeable reward. Of course, if you do not take the risk, there is zero chance of a reward. So the question remains, do you move towards the risk or retreat? Lets consider these benefits of taking risks: Taking risks opens you up to new challenges and opportunities . Start small and work your way up to something bigger. Taking risks broadens your horizons . You will leave your comfort zone and enter bold, new territory. Once you are there, you are on your way to even more opportunities. Taking risks sparks creativity . New situations will require you to open your mind and find new ways to solve problems. Taking risks can result in something truly amazing . Perhaps even well beyond your imaginings. There are 4 ways to deal with risk. You can accept it, transfer it, reduce it, or eliminate it. For example, you may decide to accept a risk because the cost of completely eliminating it is too high. Or, you might decide to transfer the risk, which is typically done with insurance. You may be able to reduce the risk by introducing new processes. You may be able to completely eliminate that particular risk by changing the way you do business. Every person who experiences success, has also seen their share of failures. But those who are serially successful learn from their failures, figure out how to overcome them, and conquer their fears so they can apply what they learn and try again. Here are some of suggestions about fear and perseverance: Write down your fears. Think about them carefully and be honest with yourselfno matter how silly they might be. Next to each fear, write down one reason not to fear this item . Then write down at least one action step you can take to move beyond that fear. When you are in a situation and feel fear coming on, breathe ! Take several deep, slow breaths. Then take out your list. Read what you wrote to remind yourself why the fear is unfounded and how to move past this state. Breathe some more. Face your fears directly . Do the things you are afraid to do so you can cross them off your list. That will make you breathe even easier. Focus on this moment . Fear is often the result of our mind not focusing on the here and now. The past is done. The future is not here yet. Imagining worst-case scenarios is similarly unproductive. I love the saying, Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift, thats why they call it the present. As Josh Shipp said, Perseverance is stubbornness with a purpose. Defense leads tournament host Windber to Rotary championship game The 61st Rotary Tournament is being contested Dec. 28 and 29th in Windber. Tournament host Windber is off to a fast start this season. Dear Editor: As the 75th anniversary of the D-Day invasion approaches, I have been thinking about a recent trip I took. My wife and I went to the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach in France last year. We used public transportation to get to the area but selected the closest hotel to the cemetery. I woke up early one morning and walked the mile to the cemetery. I was imagining the American soldiers fighting down this road as they advanced into France. Since I arrived so early, I was lucky enough to be alone in the cemetery. A total of 9,388 Americans are buried there. I did not take any pictures in the cemetery, out of respect to the dead. My visit there was an incredibly moving experience. Because of their sacrifice, I have never experienced the horror of war. I think often about my trip, and deeply appreciate the sacrifice of the men and women buried there gave to our nation. Edward G. Doran Stone Ridge, N.Y. As the first results of the European elections began flooding in, I was reminded of one of the most famous headlines of the past half-century. It came in the spring of 1973, in the days of crippling rail strikes. One memorable evening, Londons commuters were confronted by a stark headline in the Evening Standard. It read: Absolute Chaos Tonight: Official. That just about sums things up not just here in Britain, but across the Continent. Indeed, although the headlines in this country naturally belong to Nigel Farages victorious Brexit Party, the resurgent Lib Dems and the unprecedented collapse of the Tory and Labour parties, the European picture is no less extraordinary. Election staff making piles of ballot papers as they count the votes for the European Elections in Birmingham on Sunday night Chaotic Across the EU, the centre-Left and centre-Right took a fearful beating as voters turned to radical alternatives. In France, Marine Le Pens National Rally grabbed first place. In Italy, Matteo Salvinis far-Right League won a comfortable victory. And even in supposedly rock-solid Germany, the Greens soared to finish a strong second, ahead of the old-school Social Democrats. All of this means the most fractured, chaotic EU parliament in history: a bewildering rainbow of socialists, Greens, liberals, conservatives, populists and nationalists. In other words, the result will almost certainly mean years of paralysis: a gift to the extremists and the worst imaginable advertisement for European democracy. But, if you want to see real chaos, there is only one place to look. Even after years of electoral shocks, the picture in Britain was simply breathtaking. Nigel Farage (pictured in London yesterday) repeated his 2014 triumph to win a second consecutive European Parliament election in a landslide for his Brexit Party With a risible 9 per cent of the vote, the Conservatives historically the most successful party in the Western world recorded by far the worst result in their history. To have finished fourth would have been bad; to have come fifth, behind even the Greens, represents a disaster of mind-boggling proportions. Yet, with an equally pitiful 14 per cent, that other great party of government, Labour, fared little better, recording its worst result in living memory. Not only did it finish third in Wales historically one of its great emotional heartlands it contrived to finish a pitiful fifth in Scotland. As a result, the British political landscape now looks unrecognisable. You have to go back to World War I, when the Liberals last ran the country, to find an electoral map in which red and blue were so conspicuous by their absence. And, while the Tories are obviously suffering from their parliamentary disunity and failure to deliver Brexit, Labours plight, as a major Opposition party, is arguably even worse. Traditional working-class voters, who backed Leave in 2016, have deserted the party in their millions. Meanwhile Jeremy Corbyn's Labour Party suffered a battering in the result It is revealing, for example, that in Bolsover, Derbyshire, famously the constituency of veteran Dennis Skinner, Labour won less than half the vote of the Brexit Party. Yet, at the same time, Labours reluctance to stake out a clear Remain position has also seen it haemorrhage votes in metropolitan areas. In Jeremy Corbyns own Islington backyard, for instance, Labour finished second to the Lib Dems, a result unimaginable only a few months ago. No wonder the partys senior figures were at each others throats yesterday. Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry demanded that Mr Corbyn commit himself to a second referendum, while Labours union paymaster, Len McCluskey, accused Deputy Leader Tom Watson of behaving like a poor imitation of the Italian political thinker Machiavelli, whose writings have been described as a handbook for tyrants. So much for being a government in waiting! So, where does this leave us? And if, as many political insiders believe, we are heading for an autumn general election under a new Conservative prime minister, could the two great parties of the past century really be facing electoral Armageddon? Boris Johnson leaving his home yesterday with his girlfriend, 31-year-old Carrie Symonds as he leads the Tory race to become the next party leader In Westminster, the conventional wisdom is that it could never happen. Many MPs insist that voters in a general election would come back to their old haunts, as they did in 2017. This strikes me to be self-delusion. As political scientists always say, voters are creatures of habit. But, once a particular habit is broken, they find it hard to take it up again. No political party has a right to last for ever. Both the Tories and Labour are essentially Victorian inventions. They have had a good run, but, under the pressure of Brexit, their coalitions have fallen apart. Some politicians think that the only way they can survive is if, instead of sitting on the fence, they move towards the extremes, giving voters a clear, unequivocal choice. Gamble In this scenario, the Tories could become the party of Leave, targeting a No Deal Brexit in October, while Labour would wholeheartedly embrace Remain and a second referendum. For both parties, though, such a scenario would be fraught with danger. An ultra-Brexiteer Tory prime minister might well neutralise Mr Farage. But they would face defections from Conservative Remainers, might lose a vote of confidence to a Remain alliance of Labour MPs, Lib Dems and the Scottish Nationalists, and would alienate thousands of affluent, middle-class voters. As for Labour, it would be a colossal gamble to risk throwing away dozens of northern constituencies to the Brexit Party in the hope of snapping up middle-class, Radio 4-listening seats in the South. Tory leadership contenders including (l-r) Jeremy Hunt, Andrea Leadsom and Dominic Raab were among those to issue dire warnings for the Conservative Party if it cannot sort out Brexit fast In any case, is Jeremy Corbyn, an unreconstructed Marxist, who, at heart, has regarded the EU as a capitalist conspiracy, really the man to do it? If there was an easy answer, the two parties would already have seized on it. Instead, by trying to appease both Leave and Remain voters, they have ended up satisfying very few. That is precisely why so many voters, angry and frustrated, have turned to the Brexit Party, the Lib Dems and even the Greens. Yet it is worth remembering that chaos always brings opportunity. Enticed Instead of panicking, a canny strategist might see in the European results a once-in-a-lifetime chance to build a new coalition that could dominate British politics for decades. If the 32 per cent who backed the Brexit Party, the 20 per cent who voted Lib Dem, the 12 per cent who voted Green and the 3 per cent who backed Change UK have one thing in common, it is that they could be enticed elsewhere. Not all of them, of course: not even a miracle worker could win over all the Brexit Partys voters and all the Greens. This diagram shows the Brexit Party's dominance everywhere except London and Scotland But, unless British politics is to sink completely into fragmentation and acrimony, one of the two major parties must find a formula that attracts as many of those protest voters as possible, adding them either to the Tory or the Labour Partys total thereby hitting the electoral jackpot. In my view, the only way to do this would be to conclude Brexit as quickly as possible and turn the political debate to job creation, housing, the economy and public services the issues that have traditionally dominated British elections. It remains, however, that unless something radically changes, the two parties that have defined our politics for the past century are heading for oblivion. In the next few months, they probably have one last chance to arrest their fall. Either they take it, or they are finished. Its that simple. For the past couple of weeks there has been a bit of an elephant on this page. I've been doing my best to dance around it but, given recent events, I just don't think I can ignore it any more. My husband, Michael Gove, the Environment Secretary, is running for PM. It has not been an easy decision to take. Well, not for me, at any rate. I think for Michael it's a bit of a no-brainer. As a leader of the campaign to leave the EU, he is determined to deliver the result of the referendum not least because it's what he believes in, but also because he has invested so much in it, personally and politically. Of course, he did his best under Theresa May a woman for whom I know he has huge respect and admiration, despite everything. While others threw in the towel, he stayed on, not only to try to secure a deal, but also because of his work at Environment. Sarah Vine's husband, Michael Gove (pictured), has announced he will run for Prime Minister As the size of the Green vote this weekend proves, the future of the planet is something people are deeply engaged in. Or, as our elder child put it: 'Saving Brexit is one thing, Dad; saving the planet is much more important in the long run.' And she's right, of course. No point securing a good deal if we're all drowning in plastic. Now that Mrs May has finally been forced to concede, Michael has put his name forward. He has always been passionate about politics, and in particular taking Britain out of the EU. As he said to me the other day, watching Parliament drive Brexit into a cul-de-sac over the past few years has been excruciating. 'You just can't help thinking: 'Aargh, if only I could just get my hands on the steering wheel.' For the past couple of weeks there has been a bit of an elephant on this page. I've been doing my best to dance around it but, given recent events, I just don't think I can ignore it any more. Pictured: Michael Gove out for a run yesterday When I pointed out to him that a motoring analogy was perhaps not the best one for a man who took seven yes, seven attempts to pass his driving test, he laughed and admitted that perhaps I had a point. But I know what he means. Seeing the result of a democratic vote turned into little short of a civil war has driven me mad with frustration and, at times, fury. Indeed, there have been times when I have been ready to give up and give in. I voted Leave not for the reasons cited by those who like to characterise us 17.4 million Leavers as bigots and xenophobes, but because, as a former expat who grew up in Europe and whose immediate family still lives there, I do not view Brussels through rose-tinted spectacles. Yet I've now even entertained the thought of revoking Article 50 altogether. Anything, frankly, to put an end to the division and anger pulling this country apart. Michael, I know, has never felt that way for one single second. His Euroscepticism is as deeply ingrained in him as his love of the United Kingdom. And while he is wary of the consequences of a no-deal Brexit, he is equally determined that Britain will, one way or another, leave the EU. Like all husbands, Michael has his flaws: a fondness for corduroy, an inability to go anywhere (including dinner) without a book, a passion for Wagnerian opera, an obsession with Strictly, an entirely irrational dislike of houseplants and, of course, the usual pathological male inability to operate a dishwasher. But one thing he cannot be accused of in respect of Brexit is giving up. Indeed, I'd go so far as to say that, for him, delivering the result of the 2016 referendum has become more important than almost anything else and I'll be backing him to the hilt. Every spouse wants to support their partner in life's endeavours. But there is also family life to think about; not least the small matter of staying sane. And, as I discovered last time Michael stuck his head above the parapet, during the 2016 referendum, things can get awful mad in politics. Quite aside from our own issues, I cannot recall a time in my life when Westminster has felt this feverish and toxic; when public anger has been so fierce and so acutely felt, or, for that matter, so justifiable. As we have seen from this recent European election an election which never should have taken place people feel deeply let down. For Michael, this is not just about succeeding where others have failed: it's about honouring the result of the referendum. And to do that he has to persuade the party and the people that not only is he the right man to unite the Conservatives and deliver Brexit, he is also someone who can, in the long term, restore faith in politics. For me, the challenge is very different but just as personal. I have to find a way of protecting the family, and particularly our two children, from the inevitable repercussions. From a world that may well see them not as human beings but as potential and legitimate targets in the greatest of ideological battles. That, I think, will be hard, given the strength of feeling in this feral social media age of ours. We are all protective when it comes to our own, and I am no exception. As the size of the Green vote this weekend proves, the future of the planet is something people are deeply engaged in. Or, as our elder child put it: 'Saving Brexit is one thing, Dad; saving the planet is much more important in the long run.' And she's right, of course. No point securing a good deal if we're all drowning in plastic Like any parent, Michael also feels these concerns acutely. But I also know that part of him believes that in politics there are some things that transcend even the deeply personal; that the overall good of the country requires certain sacrifices. And he's right, of course. This is not just about one person, one family: it is about the country as a whole. About a Britain that has been torn apart by the question of Brexit. And about the urgent need to resolve the rift in the most civilised way possible. Treating those with whom you profoundly disagree with respect and consideration is not a mark of weakness, it's basic civility something that has been in woefully short supply of late. One of the reasons Mrs May's task was so impossible was because of the sheer tribal vitriol perpetrated by those in Parliament and beyond who wanted to either undermine the result of the referendum altogether or interpret it so aggressively as to only accept a no-deal exit. Uncoupling Britain from the rules and restrictions of the EU was never going to be straightforward. It requires patience, diligence, conviction and, yes, compromise. All qualities that Michael has in spades. Especially, as you can imagine, patience, being married to yours truly. If he wins, he faces a Herculean task, not only in delivering Brexit but also in restoring the battered fortunes of the Conservative Party and keeping that creepy communist Corbyn out of No 10. Can he do it? I hope so. But this much I do know: if the Party and the country puts their trust in him, he will do everything within his power to see this one through. I, meanwhile, shall be battening down the hatches. Good move, Posh - the only Classy Spice The much-anticipated Spice Girls reunion tour has been marred by poor sound quality, leading some fans to ask for their money back. I would have thought that not being able to hear four fortysomethings dressed as schoolgirls warble their way tunelessly through a back-catalogue of tacky hits would have been a positive. For once, Posh Spice who's not taking part proves she's the one with real class. For once, Posh Spice (pictured) who's not taking part in the Spice Girls tour proves she's the one with real class Alexa! Connect me to God Apparently, thousands of Alexa users are reconnecting with God through a new 'skill' (similar to an app) launched by the Church of England. Time, perhaps, to update the Lord's Prayer? Apparently, thousands of Alexa users are reconnecting with God through a new 'skill' (similar to an app) launched by the Church of England Our Father, who art online, Googled be thy name; thy Amazon delivery come; thy shopping be done; on eBay as it is on Etsy. Give us this day our free delivery. And forgive us our Facebook, as we forgive those who Twitter against us. And lead us not to Netflix; but deliver us from the BBC Sounds app. For thine is the Instagram, the Snapchat and the WhatsApp, for ever and ever #Amen Trust an American (Rob Lowe) to say what none of us Brits had the courage to say: it's rather sad the future heir has lost his hair. As Lowe points out: 'Honestly, one of the great traumatic experiences of my life was watching Prince William lose his hair. He's going to be the f*****g king of England!' He's right of course as he is right that there are now plenty of options for slowing down or even stopping hair loss altogether. But part of me rather admires Prince William for being so un-vain as to let nature simply take its course. I wonder whether the Duchess of Sussex will be quite so laissez faire with William's little brother. Something tells me maybe not. As the new Love Island line-up is revealed, I am struck by the story of 26-year-old Amy Hart, an air stewardess from West Sussex. For her 21st birthday, Amy received a pair of 5,000 surgically enhanced breasts from her grandparents. Im sure theyre very nice and all, but the story does slightly make me long for the days when your 21st birthday present from Granny was a nice carriage clock or a pair of earrings. Progress? Im not so sure. A mother-of-two has gotten her sons' stamp of approval after showing off her stylish new look following her surprise ambush makeover. Holly Carmen, 51, from Norman, Oklahoma, was visiting New York City with her sons Jacob and Jayden when she was plucked from the crowd in the Today show plaza on Thursday for a head-to-toe makeover. Even though it was Jayden's 13th birthday, he and his older brother dutifully stood in the rain with their mom in the hope that she would catch the attention of Today style expert Jill Martin and celebrity hairstylist Louis Licari. Scroll down for video Then and wow! Holly Carmen, 51, from Norman, Oklahoma, received a head-to-toe ambush makeover on the Today show Thursday Earned it: The mom was standing outside in the rain in the Today plaza with her sons Jacob and Jayden when she was chosen to get a new look Not only was the mom celebrating her youngest son becoming a teenager, but she was also toasting Jacob's acceptance into dental school when she was chosen for an an ambush makeover. 'I'm very blessed to have two boys. I think it's a lot of fun,' Holly said, though she admitted she was lacking in the style department. 'I never know how to put anything together,' she said. 'I'm not very confident in makeup or hair or anything like that, so [I want] to have someone show me what to do. 'My normal look is a T-shirt and jeans so I'd like to have something with a little more style,' she noted. 'What I really would love is to just have a good style and to look younger.' Proud mom: Not only was Holly celebrating her son Jayden's 13th birthday, but she was also toasting Jacob's acceptance into dental school Confession: Holly admitted that could use some help in the style department because she usually just wears T-shirts and jeans Look: Holly looked stylish when she stepped on stage in a long cardigan and cropped flare jeans Holly looked both youthful and stylish when she stepped on stage to show off her new look, eliciting approval from both of her sons. 'Oh my . . . you look great, mom,' Jacob told her. The mom was just as surprised when she turned around and looked at herself in the mirror for the first time since her makeover. 'That's amazing,' she said. Louis explained that he and his team wanted to give Holly a 'stronger sense of style,' so her hair was cut into a chin-length bob before he 'brightened' up her dark brown hue with golden highlights. Approval: Both of her sons were stunned by her new look. 'Oh my . . . you look great, mom,' Jacob told her Look: Celebrity hairstylist Louis Licari explained that he and his team wanted to give Holly a 'stronger sense of style,' so her hair was cut into a chin-length bob and highlighted In honor of Memorial Day weekend, Jill dressed Holly in a 'barbecue chic' outfit that consisted of a shimmering duster cardigan over a matching shell and a pair of cropped flare jeans. The stylist topped off the look with dangly earrings and practical wedges, so Holly could comfortably spend the weekend outdoors. Angie Kays, 38, from Beavercreek, Oregon, also received an ambush makeover on Thursday morning's show. She traveled to the Big Apple with her mom and some of her other family members to celebrate her cousin's graduation from medical school. Beautiful new look: Angie Kays, 38, from Beavercreek, Oregon, also received an ambush makeover on Thursday morning's show Uniform: She explained that she likes to be comfortable and normally wears jeans and either a T-shirt or a sweatshirt because she is 'very active' Angie said she and her husband will be celebrating their 10-year wedding anniversary in July, and she admitted she could use a style update. She explained that she likes to be comfortable and normally wears jeans and either a T-shirt or a sweatshirt. Although she would like a dressier look, she stressed that she still wants to be comfortable. 'I would love to have an ambush makeover because I don't really wear makeup. I've never really had my hair colored or anything,' she said. 'So it will be fun. Who wouldn't want it?' Angie's mother Mary couldn't wait to see her daughter's new look when she walked on stage. Partner: Angie said she and her husband will be celebrating their 10-year wedding anniversary in July, and she admitted she could use a style update Big fan: Angie's mother Mary loved her new look when she stepped on stage Looking good: Angie was given golden highlights and a stylish haircut that is still long enough to pull up when she is on duty as a police officer 'Oh my God! Amazing,' her mom said. Angie was just as impressed when she turned around to look in the mirror, letting out a 'wow' while staring at her reflection. She was given golden highlights and a stylish haircut, and Louis pointed out that her hair was still long enough that she could pull it up when she is on duty as a police officer. Angie wanted to look chic but casual, and Jill said she was immediately comfortable in the camouflage linen blazer and white jeans she had dressed her in. The stylist accessorized the look with black loafers and red beaded statement earrings that peeked out from underneath her hair. Mary continued to gush about Angie's transformation while giving her daughter a big hug. Everyone's holiday snaps can start to look the same when you're constantly scrolling through Instagram, but some travellers have found an inventive way to make monuments look a little different. A new online gallery compiled by Go.social features snaps from around the world showing statues that have been transformed thanks to some cheeky poses. While stone statues often have quite a serious appearance, tricksters have made them look anything but by adding karate poses, feeding them beer or simply getting up close and personal. One woman jumped in the middle of a family reunion, and kissed returning naval officer in British Columbia, while a joker dressed as Spiderman got into hot water with a statue in Mexico. High kicks! One man performed a karate move with the bronze sculpture, Encounter, by William McElcheran, which shows two business men bumping into each other, in Ontario, Canada Stop thief! A man, believed to be in America, jokingly pretended to steal this couples' suitcase as they emotionally embraced Slow down there cowboy! One cheeky jokster, whose location is unknown, appeared taken aback by the overly friendly statue Spiderman has met his match! This statue, in Mexico, looks to have caught the superhero in a little bit of trouble Can't quite put my finger on it: This man, believed to be in America, was too tempted by the wagging finger Musical statues: This little girl couldn't help but join in with the stone's wobbly walk at a sculpture park in Russia The iron first: This man, whose location is unknown, looked perfectly content to feign a chokehold with this statue Another man, whose location is unknown, must have thought this statue's pose was too inviting and ready to party Welcome home! One woman, from Canada, got a little friendly with the statue The Homecoming by sculptor Nathan Scott in Victoria, British Columbia Put your back into it! This prankster in Salt Lake City, made a loving swinging scene into a tense tug of war by hopping on to the sculpture, Counterpoint, by Dennis Smith It's child's play! Another man, from Chicago, was tempted to get down on the ground with this family fun statue One cheeky prankster, whose location is unknown, perfectly placed this pink razor onto this statue Another cheeky prankster, whose location is unknown, used this statues' extended hand as the perfect position for a selfie All the single ladies: These women, whose location is unknown, noticed this statue offered the perfect backdrop for a tribute to Beyonce An Australian mother has invented a multi-functional non-violent safety device designed to help protect and give peace of mind to women who are walking alone at night. Stephanie Rodriguez heads up Wandersafe, the company behind The Beacon - a small but powerful unit that easily fits in the palm of the hand and works three times faster than your phone alone. The device comes with a range of features including a 1,000 lumen light, a strobe light and a 140-decibel alarm. A single touch safety button also alerts three contacts if you're in immediate need of emergency help. Canberra mum Stephanie Rodriguez (pictured) has developed a multi-functional handheld device that easily fits into the palm of your hand Ms Rodriguez' device is designed to help those who might find themselves alone and in trouble (stock image) The gadget, priced at $79.99, was developed with the input of safety experts including retired CIA professional Thomas Pecora. 'The CIA has protocols about what keeps you safe and what to do and what to do first,' Ms Rodriguez told The Canberra Times. According to Ms Rodriguez, statistics show that the combination of light and noise can throw off a potential attacker by up to 87 per cent. The SOS-feature, one that's so sensitive it can be activated by the lightest touch, is paired with a specially-designed app. How safe is Australia? * In 2019 alone, 20 women have died as a result of violence * In 2018, the total of all women killed by violence in Australia was 69 * Two in five people aged 18 years and over experienced an incident of physical or sexual violence since the age of 15 * This figure includes 42 per cent of men (3.8 million) and 37 per cent of women (3.4 million) * Four in ten men and three in ten women experienced physical violence * One in five women and one in twenty men experienced sexual violence Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics & Destroy the Joint Advertisement The device comes with a range of important features: a 1000 lumen light which with two clicks becomes a disorientating strobe light, a 140-decibel siren and an SOS alert button The device pairs with a specially created app that comes with a raft of safety features Once activated, it sends a message with a map of your location to three present contacts. It continues to do so every 60 seconds until the device is turned off. 'All of those [features] are particularly important when you're walking to your car, walking across campus, going for a jog in an unknown place,' Ms Rodriguez said. The Wandersafe app can also be downloaded and used without the use of The Beacon. The safety features of the app mean users are able to mark if a location has previously been flagged as unsafe and allows people to add photos or comments. Ms Rodriguez said the app will also send users push notifications alerting them of dangerous situations. The mum cites terrorist attacks as one such situation. The device, which was developed by Ms Rodriguez, a solo traveller who once found herself alone and in need of assistance, has been on the market since October. The Beacon is currently stocked in airports around the world and has also won an award: Best New Travel Accessory of 2019 in Singapore. While Ms Rodriguez is delighted to be recognised for her invention, her bigger goal is to impact lives around the world. Her plan? To see her device in the hands of a billion people by 2025. 'Looking at a broader picture for every person who goes to work and school unharmed, that has a socioeconomic impact whether that be in Chicago, Canberra or Kenya,' she said. A moisturiser from Finland has been praised by thousands of women who claim it leaves the skin feeling soft and supple for a full 24 hours. Lumene's Nordic Hydra Intense Hydration 24 Hour Moisturiser, which ships to Australia through LookFantastic, is heralded as being 'hydrating but not greasy', 'fast absorbing' and 'the best-kept skincare secret'. At $33 a pot it's not the cheapest moisturiser on the market but more than 232 people have written positive reviews online saying they would happily repurchase it. Lumene's Nordic Hydra Intense Hydration 24 Hour Moisturiser, which ships to Australia, is heralded as being 'hydrating but not greasy', 'fast absorbing' and 'lasts all day' 'I've been using this product for about nine months. After years of anti wrinkle/anti ageing creams I discovered all I really needed was a good moisturiser which suited my skin,' one person said. 'It's lovely and light, easily absorbed and lasts all day. It's pricey but a little goes a long way and I consider it's a very good value for money product.' 'I really love this moisturiser, it really suits my dry and sensitive skin,' another said. 'It's rich and creamy but doesn't feel greasy on the face. Its incredibly fast absorbing and actually smells amazing.' 'I really love this moisturiser, it really suits my dry and sensitive skin,' another said A third added: 'Since I don't wear much makeup I usually use a thicker, oilier cream even in the daytime as my skin gets dry easily. 'However, I've used this product on hot summer days when I don't feel like putting a thick moisturiser on my face but still want my skin to feel plump and moisturised.' The website puts the product's success down to its fine-tuned ingredients, which are sourced from the cooler northern regions. It contains pure arctic spring water, which works to 'promote a healthy-looking complexion', and organic Nordic birch sap It contains pure arctic spring water, which works to 'promote a healthy-looking complexion', and organic Nordic birch sap. The birch sap, which comes from a birch tree, contains a high level of manganese, a mineral that helps blood sugar regulation and bone structure through calcium absorption. A special 'Hydra-Technology' the company used to create the gel-like moisturiser also works to support continuous hydration through the day. It doesn't contain alcohol, sulphates or parabens, which can dry out the face. Australian home chefs will soon be able to purchase a stunning range of cookware from Aldi which features cast iron and enamel-finished pots, pans and baking dishes. The collection, which is part of Aldi's latest Special Buys on sale from Saturday June 1, has been compared to top-selling designer brand Le Creuset - French cookware that retails for hundreds of dollars. For example, Aldi's three-litre Dutch Oven, priced at $22.99 is just a fraction of the $300 price tag that can be found on a similar piece by the designer brand. Those looking to replenish their kitchenware shopping at Aldi during the sale will be delighted to know items such as a cast iron saucepan is priced at just $17.99. This Aldi three-litre Dutch Oven, priced at $22.99 (pictured) is just a fraction of the $300 price tag Le Creuset have on a similar piece The German retailer has wowed shoppers again with its latest collection of stunning homewares (file image) The French Pan (pictured) is an ideal item for creating dishes that require cooking on a stove top first before being completed in the oven With cooler weather on the horizon, cooks wanting to whip up a batch of soup can purchase a number of items from the new range that fits the bill. An 11L enamel stock pot which comes with a lid is priced at just $19.99. If a smaller cooking utensil is required, a 16cm cast iron saucepan is available, also for $19.99. For a dish that needs to be transferred from cook top to oven, the three-litre Dutch Oven, priced at $22.99, is a must. This 11L enamel stock pot which also comes with a lid is priced at a very affordable $19.99 (pictured) Shoppers are thrilled that Aldi is offering a cookware collection (pictured left and right) that not only looks stunning but also rivals designer brands Aldi is also offering a 3.2L French Pan for a very affordable $24.99. A similar item from Myer by Le Creuset is priced at $349. If you're out to make a statement, then presenting food cooked in its own mini baking dish is a must. The retailer is offering a mini casserole dish or mini baking dish for $2.99 for a set of two. These come in black, blue, white and red. The collection features a cast iron frying pan, priced at $17.99 (pictured centre front),an a cast iron griddle, also priced at $17.99 (pictured top centre) Professional-style frying pans have also been included - these come in two sizes, 20 and 28cm and are priced at $14.99 and $19.99 respectively (pictured) As well as a cast iron frying pan, priced at $17.99, the collection features a cast iron griddle, also priced at $17.99. Professional-style frying pans have also been added to the range. A 20cm pan which features a stainless steel handle and a non-stick coating is priced at $14.99. The same style frying pan measuring 28cm is priced at $19.99. The Special Buys range also feature a selection of very well-priced kitchen accessories including silicone and wood utensils for $3.99 each The Special Buys range also features a selection of very well-priced kitchen accessories including silicone and wood utensils for $3.99 each. The range comprises of a ladle, spatula, solid spoon, slotted spoon, pastry brush or a handle sleeve. Other items that many shoppers will be impressed with are a cast iron spoon rest or a stoneware utensil holder,. These are priced at $7.99 each. These cast iron trivets (pictured) not only add a touch of style to any dining table they're priced at a very affordable $7.99 These come in a range of colours available including blue, white, black and red. Completing the lineup is a micro flame torch with gas for $14.99 - a must-have item for creating the ultimate Creme brulee. Lastly, cast iron trivets (a stand that's used to protect against burns caused by hot pots and pans) are available for $7.99. These also come in a range of on-trend colours. People posting on Facebook about the pots wrote comments like 'they are brilliant' and 'it has been amazing'. A law graduate who had tried endless lotions and potions to clear up her acne and prolonged scarring has revealed how a simple $49.95 oil eased it in a matter of months. Georgie Stevenson, 25, from Queensland said she has been through hell and back with her skin, after a bout of adult acne left her with scars, before she cleared them up and got acne and then scarring again. That was until she discovered Glory Oil by Australian brand Eco by Sonya Driver, and applied it to her skin. Within just four months, Georgie said her skin looks and feels better - and her confidence has been restored. A law graduate who had tried endless lotions and potions to clear up her acne and prolonged scarring has revealed how a simple $49.95 oil eased it in a matter of months (pictured with acne) Speaking about her second round of acne, Georgie said she developed it in December. 'Luckily for me it didn't last too long, but I was AGAIN left with scars,' she said. 'Last time, I had really bad pitted scars and got some in-clinic skin treatments done (skin needling and peels) to heal them, but I wanted to try something less invasive this time.' Georgie Stevenson, 25, from Queensland said she has been through hell and back with her skin, after a bout of adult acne left her with scars, before she cleared them up and got acne and then scarring again (pictured when she started using Glory Oil and now) 'My scars and pigmentation have faded so much and my skin is feeling so good,' Georgie (pictured now) said of her skin What is in Glory Oil? Inca Inchi: This ancient Peruvian omega abundant super seed oil high in antioxidants and the ultimate anti-ageing & healing ingredient. Acai Fruit Oil: This is an antioxidant powerhouse and helps protect the skin from environmental aggressors and reduces the appearance of ageing and helps to restore moisture balance. Pumpkin Seed Oil: This is rich in vitamin E, zinc, omega 3- and 6- fatty acids as well as antioxidants, therefore it has tremendous benefits for the skin in terms of retaining moisture and fighting free radicals. Advertisement The 25-year-old wrote on Instagram that she stumbled upon Glory Oil completely by chance, because she heard it reduces the appearance of scars and fine lines 'and restores your skin to its true glory'. 'I've used and loved a lot of the other Eco Tan products before so I thought why not try it!,' she wrote. 'Above is my four months progress using it day and night. I am so impressed with the results! 'My scars and pigmentation have faded so much and my skin is feeling so good.' The photos show that Georgie's scarring - severe from her bad bout of acne - has almost all but disappeared. The product is organic, and completely natural. An Australian mother who had 'tried everything' to cure her little girl's painful eczema has revealed how a simple $49.95 oil eased it in just one day (left before and right the next day) Georgie isn't the first to rave about the oil, with many Australian adults also using the oil on scars, rosacea, psoriasis and their own eczema flare ups with great success. Kerry Caruana, 36, from the Gold Coast, Queensland, said her daughter Eden, almost two, started suffering severe eczema and psoriasis when she was just seven weeks old. But after applying the Glory Oil, she couldn't believe how quickly the redness started to disappear. 'Eden had patches on her chest, back and face and her face gets pretty bad. One day her face was so bad that it looked like sunburn,' Ms Caruana previously told FEMAIL. Kerry Caruana (left), 36, from the Gold Coast, Queensland, said her daughter Eden (pictured now), almost two, started suffering severe eczema when she was just seven weeks old 'It was extremely red, hot and so sore for her and she kept pointing to her face and saying "owie" - it was so hard seeing her in pain like that and pointing to it all the time while crying. Whenever she starts to get sore, she comes to me and says "face, face" and points to the oil. 'I tried another "natural" brand specifically designed for eczema and she screamed when it touched her skin so I took it straight off with some water.' To try and ease her daughter's pain, Ms Caruana tried steroid creams, oatmeal baths and cutting out all products with perfume and harsh chemicals but nothing seemed to help for longer than a couple of days. Health professionals also failed to help, telling the frantic mother that Eden would 'likely grow out of it in time and just to keep up with topical steroids'. 'It was extremely red, hot and so sore for her and she kept pointing to her face and saying "owie" - it was so hard seeing her in pain like that,' she said Desperate to find a solution, Ms Caruana, who already used some of the popular Eco by Sonya Driver products, said she recently saw some eczema success stories on the brand's website and decided to try the 'Glory Oil' on Eden. 'Luckily I already had some as I use the whole Eco range on my face and the Glory Oil is my favourite. I put it on her and she didn't scream, she smiled at me and gave me a look like when you put something cooling on a sunburn,' Ms Caruana said. 'Within 30 - 45 minutes the redness had significantly decreased and by the next morning there was only a small pale area of eczema left. 'The Glory Oil keeps her eczema from being inflamed for days and I put more on her maybe three times a week.' Described by the brand as a 'miraculous night and day treatment oil', the all-natural product is designed to reduce the appearance of scars and fine lines and restore skin to its original state She's not the first to rave about the oil, with many Australian adults also using the oil on scars, rosacea, psoriasis and their own eczema flare ups with great success (pictured) How does Glory Oil work? * It is described as a 'miraculous night and day treatment oil', the all-natural product is designed to reduce the appearance of scars and fine lines and restore skin to its original state. * It does this using a blend of 'super seeds' including inca inchi, acai and pumpkin seed oil as well as chia seed oil, grape seed oil, Vitamin E, and coconut fruit oil. * 'Glory Oil harnesses the phenomenal healing powers of organic super seeds to heal, sooth, reduce sign of ageing and assists in restoring moisture balance to your skin,' the product description reads. Advertisement Ms Caruana said her little girl is now much happier, has stopped 'crying in pain' all the time and asks for the oil to be applied whenever she feels any pain returning. 'Whenever she starts to get sore, she comes to me and says "face, face" and points to the oil,' Ms Caruana said. 'My advice to any other families dealing with eczema is to reduce or remove any products with perfumes or chemicals from their child's skin care and take a chance on Glory Oil. 'If it doesn't work for your child, the bonus is that you can use it as part of your own night time skin care routine! It's amazing!' Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden stole the spotlight at an award ceremony last night. The Swedish royal was in Stockholm for the presentation of the 2019 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award (ALMA) at the beautiful Stockholm Concert Hall. Dressed in a sophisticated blue and white number with shell motifs, Victoria, 41, looked a vision with minimal make-up and her locks sleeked back in a neat bun. She later presented Belgian author Bart Moeyaert, who wrote It's Love We Don't Understand, with the prestigious ALMA award and SEK 5M (412,812) in prize money. Moeyaert also received an illustrated diploma. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden (left) presented Belgian Author Bart Moeyaert (right) with the prestigious Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award (ALMA), which rewards children's literature Princess of effortless fashion. Victoria (pictured) shone with her wide smile in a blue and white dress with intricate marine motifs Good spirits! Princess Victoria (pictured) could not help but smile during the ceremony, which took place at the Stockholm Concert Hall last night In his acceptance speech, the author emphasised the importance of childhood memories: 'Its curious how words that you learn as a young child can remain etched in your memory forever. It also shows exactly how important the age of six, seven, eight is. 'The fact that something can be etched in the memory. The fact that we can seize the opportunity to etch something of value in it. The fact that what is of value does not necessarily have to be the child-sized version (or whatever adults imagine to be child-sized),' said Moeyaert. Amanda Lind, Swedish Minister for Democracy and Culture congratulated Moeyaert for showing the world 'so many different childhoods.' There are as many childhoods as there are people who have ever lived. Actually, if we include all daydreams, all fears and all wishful thinking, there are even more childhoods. Bart Moeyaert, you have showed us so many different childhoods,' she said. Bart Moeyaert (pictured) emphasised the importance of childhood memories in his acceptance speech Princess Victoria, pictured, as she handed author Bart Moeyaert with the ALMA award last night Stealing the show. Crown Princess Victoria (pictured) was in excellent spirits and spent the whole ceremony smiling The awards ceremony concluded a week of ALMA events for the author, including a public lecture, school visits and a trip to Astrid Lindgrens childhood home in Vimmerby. Named after the internationally famous Swedish author Astrid Lindgren, the award rewards authors, illustrators, oral storytellers and reading promoters of children books. It can be presented either to an individual or a group, regardless of nationality. This year's winner Bart Moeyaert comnes from Antwerp, Belgium. At just 19, he was already a recognised author, with his award-winning Duet met valse noten. Belgian author Bart Moeyaert (pictured) proudly showing off his diploma illustrated by Karin Cyren and Maja Zetterberg Pictured from left to right: Sweden's Minister of Culture of Democracy Amanda Lind, author Bart Moeyaert and Crown Princess Victoria posing for a picture during the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in Stockholm Even in the audience, Crown Princess Victoria (pictured) could not help but shine as she waited for her time to present Moeyaert with his award Moeyaert is a versatile author, and worked on picture books, YA novels, and poetry. When he heard he was nominated for the award, Moeyaert said: 'When I was nine I read Astrid Lindgrens books and the world of Astrid Lindgren was like my own family and the real world was like hers.' 'And later I saw that her world was about inclusion. And that was comforting because I was a loner in my big family since I was the youngest. And this influenced my work. I want to broaden the borders of childrens literature,' he added. Lover of Art and Literature. Victoria (pictured) could not contain her excitement during the ceremony Crown Princess Victoria (right) listened closely as she sat next to Amanda Lind, Swedish Minister for Democracy and Culture as Moeyaert (left) delivered his acceptance speech (pictured) The ALMA award jury was impressed with his work, and said his 'condensed and musical language vibrates with suppressed emotions and unspoken desires.' 'He portrays relationships at crisis point with a cinematic immediacy, even as his complex narratives suggest new ways forward. Bart Moeyaerts luminous work underscores the fact that books for children and young people have a self-evident place in world literature.' A woman who went from being homeless to having a senior role in the fire service has reveals how she stopped hiding her past in the hope of encouraging others never to give up. At 36, Dr Sabrina Cohen-Hatton is the Deputy Assistant Commissioner of the London Fire Brigade but as a teenager, she used to be homeless in Newport. Sabrina, who's written a book about her experience, shared her story with Carol Voderman on today's Lorraine. Reflecting on her life as a homeless person, Sabrina said: 'I spent so many years hiding it and pretending it didn't happen, it was the most difficult thing,' 'But there are thousands of people who are in the same position today as I was back then, and I wanted to be able to tell these people "your circumstances do not define you, they don't determine where you end up, only you can.' Dr Sabrina Cohen-Hatton became homeless amidsome troubled times for her family and started sleeping rough age 15. She is now the assistant deputy commissioner of the London Fre Brigade Sabrina (pictured) joined the Welsh fire service at 18, after studying for her GCSEs while homeless and selling the Big Issue Sabrina said she decided to leave her Welsh home after following difficult years after the death of her father, which left her mother devastated. 'When someone goes to war with their demons, it's everyone around them who gets hit by shrapnel,' she said of her mother. The firefighter said she ended up sleeping rough at 15 and had 'some very difficult years' as a result. But the resourceful Sabrina said she focused on what she could control, and still attended school, even during the two years where she was homeless. 'In a funny way, it was all that I could control in the chaos,' she said, 'but what was really clear to me at that age was that there was very little help that was available to me,' 'So I very quickly realised the only person that was going to get me out of this situation was myself.' Sabrina pictured during her time in the Welsh fire service. She said she wanted to become a firefighter to help vulnerable people In parallel to her studies, Sabrina started to sell the Big Issue in order to survive, but said she earned very little money in Newport, where she lived at the time. 'I used to get on a bus at 6am in the morning up to a little town called Monmouth, [and would stay there] seven in the morning to seven at night until I'd sold all my magazines.' She eventually earned enough to afford a small deposit for a rented flat, which allowed her to put her years of homelessness behind her. Sabrina said she has had an amazing career as a firefighter and considers her coworkers as 'big brothers' Sabrina (pictured) shared her story on ITV's Lorraine and she wanted people to know their circumstances did not determine where they would end up While homeless, Sabrina lived in a derelict building and said she had to fend off strangers' attacks. She said she once woke up with someone urinating on her. But she never gave up on herself. 'I think everyone's got a spark inside them,' she said, 'it just depends what you find to fuel the fire.' 'I could see people all around me who would went straight downhill or wouldn't survive. I wanted to be able to do something to help other people when they're feeling vulnerable. Sabrina speaking to Carol Vorderman on Lorraine. She explained how she was attacked and even urnitated on while she lived as a homeless person in Wales aged 15 Sabrina pictured with her family when she received her PHD. She is also a honourary fellow at Cardiff University 'And that's what attracted me to the fire service, because I knew what it felt to be having that worst day of your life,' she explained. Sabrina joined the fire service in Risca when she was 18. And while she's faced some form of sexism, she said her experience was far more positive than negative. 'I would be doing a disservice by pretending it [sexism] didn't happen, but I think what I would say is, I had far more positive experiences in the fire service than negative experiences,' she said. She said she considered her coworkers as 'big brothers,' and said they took her 'on the strength of who they believed [she] could be.' Sabrina said she was thankful for her amazing career, In parallel, she also studied the neuroscience of decision making under pressure. Pictured with her husband. Sabrina became concerned with reducing human error that led to firefighter injuries after her husband was involved in an accident on the job Talking about what motivated her study the discipline, she said it was an incident that 'changed everything' that led her to the role. She recalled she was once called to a scene of an incident were a fellow firefighter had been severely burned. The victim could either be one of her coworkers and friends, or her then-boyfriend, who also worked as a firefighter in a neighbouring station and was one of the four firefighter present in the truck at the time of the accident. 'I remember going to this incident feeling pretty sure someone I loved had been injured,' and I found that extremely difficult to deal with,' she said. While her boyfriend, who she later married, ended up unscathed, she had to attend to the severe injuries of one of her friends instead. 'So as much I had this sense of relief, I then felt incredibly guilty, for such a long time,' she admitted, 'I felt like a horrible person for feeling relieved.' Sabrina said she used to be ashamed and hide her story, preferring to pretend she was never homeless to begin with, but now says she wants to help others by sharing her story Sabrina then decided to turn her guilt into helping others 'I started looking at what caused firefighter injury, and I was surprised to find that the majority of the time it's human error. 'And that's when I started looking into what we could do to reduce human error,' she went on. Sabrina now has a PHD, and is a honourary fellow at Cardiff University. On top of her many accomplishments, her life story was pickled up by a TV production company. The Heat of the Moment by Dr Sabrina Cohen-Hatton, published by Doubleday, priced 16.99. Dustin Lance Black has revealed he has turned down bodyguards despite receiving death threats. The Californian-born screenwriter, 44, who has an 11-month-old son with husband Tom Daley, 25, admitted his high profile and open approach to his relationship has made him a target for online abuse. But he explained that despite reporting some death threats to police, he has decided against personal security because he doesn't want to 'look afraid of being attacked'. Dustin Lance Black, 44, who has an 11-month-old son with husband Tom Daley, 25, admitted his high profile and open approach to his relationship has made him a target for online abuse. However he has decided against security guards because he doesn't want to 'look afraid' He told the Daily Telegraph: 'Of course, I worry. Too many of my heroes have been cut down, but do I want security guards? 'No. Ive been offered them in the past. But the more you present yourself as someone afraid of being attacked, the more people see you as someone to attack.' Black and Daley have won widespread praise over their willingness to discuss their journey to fatherhood. They welcomed son Robert Ray in June last year. The couple have kept in touch with their egg donor and American surrogate and are planning to extend their family soon. Black and Daley, pictured last week, have won widespread praise over their willingness to discuss their journey to fatherhood. They welcomed son Robert Ray in June last year Black - who won an Oscar for his screenplay for the 2008 film Milk, about Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California - also plays an active role in pushing for greater equality for the LGBTQ community. However he insisted that he and Daley consider themselves 'inadvertent' role models. He continued: 'Tom and I had the conversations about it, and early on we said we are just going to live our lives and make our mistakes. There is not going to be any design to being a role model.' In a separate interview over the weekend, Black, whose memoir Mama's Boy is published this week, revealed he would like to have '10 or 12' more children with his husband but that they will wait until after the Olympics next year to start trying. The couple have decided against getting a nanny, with Dustin looking after Robert in the mornings while Tom goes to training. Pictured, with their son in an Instagram snap 'We'll see what happens, but I can't imagine us having another one before the Olympics. I don't think Tom would be down with that,' he said. The couple have decided against getting a nanny, with Dustin looking after Robert in the mornings while Tom goes to training. Last month Black hit out at British Swimming after he missed out on watching Tom win his latest gold medal at the Diving World Series because he couldn't take Robbie's buggy onto the spectator concourse at London's Aquatic Centre. He wrote on social media that the organisation had created a 'toxic environment that is unsafe for their family' in an extraordinary rant. Advertisement Guests donned their finest and most decadent period wear last night as they stepped back in time for an evening at Versailles palace. The fifth Fetes Galantes fancy dress event, promised unforgettable and timeless experience for attendees, who paid up to 510. The evening took place in the The Palace of Versailles, located close to Paris, which was the principal royal residence of France from 1682, under Louis XIV, until the start of the French Revolution in 1789, under Louis XVI. In order to 'preserve the magic' of the event, guests were required to wear quality baroque-style costume - with anyone who wasn't dressed up appropriately denied entry. Some attendees broke out of character briefly as they snapped pictures of the gorgeous palace during the fancy dress evening Those attending the event in the Chateau de Versailles paid up to 510 for tickets to the event, where they could dance through the palace Guests at the event, which requires mandatory fancy dress period costume 'of a high quality' snapped pictures broke out of character to snap selfies on their phones Tickets, which cost up to 510, allowed for guests to step back in time and play trictrac or other activities within the royal palace Guests couldn't help but get into character as they arrived at the fifth annual Fetes Galantes in Versailles, just south west of the French capital Paris Many of the guests at the evening went all-out with their fancy dress, as instructed, creating an atmosphere of timeless splendour. They were seen snapping selfies, playing trictrac and dancing through the magnificent halls of the chateau. The evening offered private visits to the Royal Opera, activities, sketches and demonstrations, as well as a buffet, with a reserved table and seats, and a baroque closing ball in the Hall of Mirrors. The occasion ended with fireworks viewed from the Hall in Mirrors, reminiscent of the glory days of Versailles. Male and female guests alike donned decadent outfits, including this man who chose a flowing red cape for the evening event Guests who paid a little more for their ticket could take part in more exclusive activities, including a private visit to the Royal Opera As the sun went down, the guests took in the splendour of the Chateau de Versailles in an evening which promised 'an unforgettable and timeless experience' An Italian Venetian couple dressed in huge period costumes pose as they look the part in the "Fetes Galantes" fancy dress evening Some attendees couldn't help but break character to take photographs of their friends enjoying the elegant and decadent experience While some opted for concerts in the Royal Opera, others chose to take part in dance lessons to learn the contredanse, a favourite dance at the French Court in the 17th century Activities included a dancing class for the contredanse, a favourite dance at the French Court in the 17th century, in the Hall of Mirrors. Guests could also opt for a concert of sacred music in the Royal Chapel. Finally, some chose to visit the King's private apartments, Mesdames or du Pompadours. For those looking for a more affordable experience, the Marquis and Marchioness ticket offered free access to all sketches and demonstrations, 2 activities, a glass of champagne and cloakroom for the price of 135. Meanwhile those willing to shell out 260 for the Dukes and Duchesses ticket could also recieve a staged visit of Petits Appartements as well as unlimited access to buffet and champagne bar. Strike a pose: Several guests pose in their magnificent wigs and oversized costumes in the former throne room of Chateau de Versailles Many of the attendees were decked out in full period wear, with some of the women donning large feathered headpieces and huge wigs for the occasion Some paid up to 510 for an exclusive VIP ticket, which was limited to just 30 guests at the event, and included concerts, dance lessons and private visits in the palace On top of that, the Kings and Queens ticket, from 370, also offered a privileged and personalized VIP welcome from 7 pm as well as private visit of the Opera Royal. But those most dedicated to the cause may have opted for the 510 ticket, known as the VIP Dodges ticket, which was limited to just 30 guests. Guests could pay for a personalized VIP welcome from 7 pm, private visit of the Opera Royal, free access to all sketches and demonstrations, a concert in the Guard Room and a concert at the Royal Chapel, a mysterious 'exceptional moment' , unlimited access to buffet with table and chairs, champagne and a dedicated cloakroom. As the evening grew dark, a trio of men dressed in elaborate costume left the occasion, still wearing their full faces of painted white makeup Some looked overjoyed at the event, which took place in lavish Italian-style decoration. Many admired the marble panelling, huge chandeliers and painted ceilings As the evening progressed, guests remained in decadent wigs and intricate outfits as they awaited the fireworks at the end of the night A new TV movie about Harry and Meghan's romance is set to thrill royal fans with its cheeky take on what might have happened behind closed doors. Lifetime's Harry & Meghan: Becoming Royal offers a playful, fictional account of the events immediately leading up to the royal wedding in May last year - and the Sussexes' first few months as husband Land wife. Ahead of the movie airing in full, Vanity Fair was given a sneak peek and shared details on what viewers can expect. Her big day! Lifetime's Harry & Meghan: Becoming Royal offers a playful, fictional account of the events immediately leading up to the royal wedding in May last year - including the Duchess' choice of dress. Pictured, actress Tiffany Smith as Meghan in the movie Sisterly bond: The relationship between Meghan and Kate has been the source of widespread interest - and the same is true of Lifetime's version of events. The movie paints the sisters-in-law as close. Pictured, actors playing the royals at Sandringham at Christmas Romantic gestures: Harry, played by British actor Charlie Field, lavishes Meghan with treats and a homemade banner when she arrives in London. Pictured, actors as the couple The movie kicks off a few months before the nuptials and includes Meghan's move from Canada to the UK. Lifetime's fictional version of events sees a thoughtful Harry ease Meghan's transition from actress to royal bride-to-be by welcoming her to their new Kensington Palace home with flowers, candles, Champagne and a homemade banner. The romantic fantasy continues when it comes to Meghan telling her husband she is expecting. The moment happens as the on-screen prince presents his wife with a new puppy - and he is able to understand she has her own important news to share simply by the way she looks at him. Getting into character: Tiffany Smith, 36, left, previously revealed she focused on Meghan's subtle physical quirks to help with her performance. Right, the Duchess' signature 'baby hair tuck', where she moves her hair out of her face, was one of the habits The relationship between Meghan and her sister-in-law the Duchess of Cambridge has been the source of widespread interest - and the same is true of Lifetime's version of events. The cable movie paints the sisters-in-law as close, with Kate offering Meghan key words of advice on how to handle the attention. 'Youll never be able to control everything,' the on-screen Duchess of Cambridge says over afternoon tea. Candid: An explosive trailer sees American actress Tiffany Smith, who portrays Meghan, admitting she feels as though she's 'pretending to be a beautiful swan' Hitting back! Meghan is forced to defend herself against cruel comments from an insider, seen left, who brands her a hypocrite The unnamed insider returns, telling her: 'You'll never be able to control everything', before Meghan hits back with: 'I'm still waiting on my curtsy', giving her critic a cheeky smile Royal supporters are also offered a fictional take on how Meghan decided on her wedding dress. Drawing on real-life comment on the slightly looser fit, movie Meghan explains she had once seen a bride faint in her corseted dress and so chose one that would let her 'breathe'. It also features a fictional conflict over Meghan's decision to wed in white despite being a divorcee, and her choice of Givenchy as designer. The movie stars American actress Tiffany Smith as the Duchess of Sussex and British star Charlie Field as Harry. Harry & Meghan: Becoming Royal premieres on May 27 on US Lifetime, also available in the UK. While a landlord will always have certain requirements for their tenants, one property owner has outraged the internet with a list of very bizarre demands for those renting their property. The list of 'terms and conditions' was shared on the Facebook group 'awful roomates: roomates from hell', by Jessica Marteny from North Carolina, and has attracted more than 450 comments from outraged users. It started with reasonable demands such as limiting noise levels, keeping the place clean and not taking drugs on the property. However, the landlord also banned drinking alcohol in the house - not that tenants would be doing any entertaining, as guests were also banned. 'No one is permitted on the property but those residing at the residence,' the third rule read. Tenants were also barred from cooking after 9.30pm in the home, which was also under '24-hour video surveillance', and adjusting the thermostat if they got cold. Pictured: The list of terms and conditions found and shared by Jessica Marteny which outraged Facebook users Jessica Marteny (pictured), from North Carolina, found and shared the landlord's list of crazy demands Facebook users who saw the list said the demands were too extreme and some compared the house to a prison cell Expanding on the rules, the landlord wrote: 'Rides must stop at the end of the driveway and let you off accordingly. If your ride lingers or comes onto the driveway it is considered trespassing and will be handled as such due to posted signs on the property.' Another outlandish rule stated that tenants were not allowed to cook after 9:30pm until 6am on weekdays and until 9:30am on weekends. The list did not offer explanation for the very restricted cooking times. Worryingly, it also mentioned that the property was under constant video surveillance, which 'includes IR [infrared camera] during the night.' If tenants got cold, they were also banned from adjusting the thermostat and advised to get a blanket instead. The post was shared in a roomates group on Facebook, where it attracted more then 450 comments from outraged users Facebook users were shocked by the extreme and unreasonable demands, while some argued the landlord must have had his reasons Facebook users were shocked by the list, with many pointing out how unreasonable the demands really were. 'Is this guy renting a prison cell,' asked one Facebook user. 'What if you have a partner? They can't come over???? And no cooking before 9:30 on a weekend? What if you work on the weekend in the morning and wanna cook breakfast,' another asked. Some users pointed that some elements of the list were reasonable, while others were outlandish at best 'Or what if you... you know... get hungry? If you want to pay rent to live like you're a teenager, you might as well stay at your parents,' she went on. 'This person should not be a landlord,' one wrote. 'Do. Not. Live. There. Pretty sure this guy's got at least one body in the basement. Sorry but if I wanna crack a White Claw and make a grilled cheese art 9:30pm with the window open, I'm gonna. Whhhat the actual f**** this is so creepy something is wrong here. Like, NO GUESTS? Sorry but noo thank you. 'The no guest rule really gets me. Imagine your family visiting you and wanting to see your new place and you get evicted immediately because of that,' observed another. But some users pointed out the landlord might be protecting themselves after previous bad experiences. 'I don't know, after reading some of the stuff that goes on, it kinda makes you wonder what that dude has been through with roommates,' commented a sympathetic user, 'Seems like he's trying to cover things that have been issues before.' 'Some of these are reasonable or could have logical causes (no drinking or drugs, for example, maybe a person is in recovery and can't have them in the house).' A Spanish politician has been compared to the Duchess of Sussex after stepping out in a white coat that looked just like one worn by the royal. Madrid mayoral candidate Begona Villacis, 40, donned the trench as she introduced her newborn daughter to the public on election day last Sunday - just weeks after Meghan wore a similar ensemble for her first photocall with baby Archie. The politician, a mother of three, also wore her hair in a similar straight style to the one chosen by the Duchess of Sussex, 37, adding to the likeness. The striking similarity has drawn widespread attention in local news and on social media, with several commentators suggesting Ms Villacis - who has been compared to Meghan on a number of occasions - had deliberately chosen to mirror the royal. Begona Villacis, 40, a candidate in the recent Madrid city council elections, donned the trench as she introduced her newborn daughter to the public on Sunday The outing comes just weeks after Meghan wore a similar ensemble for her first photos with baby Archie, as seen above The similarities between the politician and the royal are well-documented, with Ms Villacis even commenting on their likeness in interviews and on social media. She once jokingly posted on Twitter: 'Between Buckingham Palace and the City Hall, I am sorry but I am going to stay in Madrid.' On a separate occasion she wrote: 'People always stop me in the street to ask me if I am Meghan. It can be very funny sometimes. My daughters tease me about it a lot.' The links between the pair extend beyond their looks and wardrobe choices. Ms Villacis tied the knot on the same day as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in May last year and gave birth to daughter Ines within days of Archie Harrison's arrival. Ms Villacis' most recent appearance came on Sunday, when she stepped out to cast her vote at the polling station The Duke and Duchess of Sussex made their first and only public appearance as a family at Windsor Castle on 8 May, two days after Archie's birth on 6 May Ms Villacis' most recent appearance came on Sunday, when she stepped out to cast her vote at the polling station. Spain held local, regional and European Parliament elections across the weekend, with Ms Villacis' standing as a candidate for the Spanish Ciudadanos (Citizens) Party. It was the first time the mother-of-three, who has two older daughters aged 12 and 13, had been seen in public with newborn Ines. The politician was the picture of pride as she strolled to the polling station while pushing Ines' pushchair. Begona Villacis was in excellent spirits as she cast her vote at the polling station in Madrid The politician was the picture of pride as she strolled to the polling station while pushing Ines' pushchair and she stopped to speak to well-wishers Villacis celebrates with colleagues from the Ciudadanos (Citizens) Party following the vote Well-wishers stopped to greet the new mother - and meet the baby. The candidate's white trench coat featured the same neckline and distinctive tortoiseshell buttons as the Duchess' Grace Wales Bonner creation - although it is not thought to have been by the same designer. Ms Villacis even chose to tie the coat in the same way as Meghan - with a large bow high on the torso. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex made their first and only public appearance as a family at Windsor Castle on 8 May, two days after Archie's birth on 6 May. Jodie Comer has revealed she tested out Killing Eve character Villanelle's poker face by making up absurd stories to tell her family and see if they believed them. The Liverpool-born actress, 26, who recently picked up the Best Actress gong at the BAFTAs for her role as the Russian assassin told Bella magazine: 'One of the most intriguing things about Villanelle is her poker face, so I tested it out on my family to see how credible I was as a liar. 'I would invent all these absurd stories and tell them about these strange incidents, and they all fell for it. At least, almost every time.' Jodie Comer has revealed she tested out Killing Eve character Villanelle's poker face by making up absurd stories to tell her family and see if they believed them The star, who is currently starring in the second season of the Phoebe Waller-Bridge series, set to air in the UK in next month, added: 'I have always been pretty good at keeping secrets and not letting on what I'm thinking, and of course, Villanelle is a master at suppressing her thoughts and feelings. Despite shooting to fame on both sides of the Atlantic in the BBC America series, Jodie also revealed she still lives at home with her parents, and loves nothing more than 'watching TV in her pyjamas with her brother Charlie'. It comes as Jodie revealed she nearly missed out on the role as she debated snubbing the part for fear of an oxersexualised character. She spoke to GQ HYPE about her award-winning turn in the BBC drama and admitted her initial concerns, yet all was well when she discovered Fleabag frontwoman Phoebe Waller-Bridge was the writer. The Liverpool-born actress, 26, (pictured with her mum) who recently picked up the Best Actress gong at the BAFTAs for her role as the Russian assassin told Bella magazine: 'One of the most intriguing things about Villanelle is her poker face, so I tested it out on my family to see how credible I was as a liar Jodie admitted the pitch of a 'female assassin' set alarm bells ringing as she feared for the costume and what she would be expected to do. She revealed: 'I was like, "Oh, f**k no". Because I always think of someone in a leather catsuit and six-inch heels scaling walls. Also, "How naked is she going to be?"...I should have known better, knowing Phoebe was the writer.' Gushing over Phoebe, she pushed: 'I love her so much. Ive said to her she has to cast me on every single thing she makes from now on. Otherwise Ill send Villanelle!' Contrary to her original concerns, she admits she fell in love with her character's wardrobe and became very protective over her clothes. She said: 'I was being really precious about them getting dirty on the floor. I was like, "No!"' When she began wearing the clothes in public, she admitted it was strange, as she pushed: 'They had too much of a connection with the character.' Following her chat, her co-star Sandra Oh revealed the whole cast were enjoying a dinner in New York yet Jodie couldn't make it - meaning she was 'there in spirit'. Jodie has garnered millions of fans with her portrayal of the seductive but disturbed assassin Villanelle, and since they she insisted she has 'zero' love life and never gets approached because of the 'psychopathic' character she plays on-screen When she began wearing the clothes in public, she admitted it was strange, as she pushed: 'They had too much of a connection with the character' Despite her bad luck in the dating apartment, the British actress did admit she gets plenty of attention from 'strange' male fans. When asked about her dating life on Saturday, Jodie said: 'Oh, zero, darling, zero.' She continued: 'I don't know if it's particularly because I've played a psychopath. I don't get approached at all. Which is fine - I'm never in one place long enough.' This comes after she revealed in September last year that she had a boyfriend back at home in Liverpool before it was revealed that they split in March. Shocker: Comer did recall one instance when she had to catch a flight at 4am in the US that made her realise her fame has attracted a bizarrely dedicated following Comer did recall one instance when she had to catch a flight at 4am in the US that made her realise her fame has attracted a bizarrely dedicated following. The actress said she found 'strange men' - who had been following her throughout her week of press - waiting for her to sign autographs at the airport at two in the morning. Over the past year, Jodie has won critical acclaim for her portrayal as merciless Villanelle in Killing Eve, who spent the last series being hunted by MI5 security officer Eve Polastri, played by Sandra Oh. The much-anticipated second season of Killing Eve aired on BBC America in the US on April 7, and will air in the UK in June. Prince Charles looked delighted as he met one of the youngest residents living on an affordable housing development in Dorset today. Charles, 70, who has helped create the new community 'Poundbury' on the fringes of Dorset - which mixes private and affordable housing mix with places of work and services - was seen chatting with homeowners in nearby Powerstock. Dressed in a checked grey suit adorned with a flower, Charles smiled warmly as he chatted with a mother holding her young baby. After taking a walk around the development, Charles planted a tree to pay tribute to the scheme. Scroll down for video Prince Charles looked delighted as he met one of the youngest residents living on an affordable housing development in Dorset today Charles' warm display comes just weeks after his son Prince Harry welcomed his first child with wife Meghan. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex introduced Archie to the family at the beginning of the month, making Charles a grandfather for the fourth time. Harry's older brother, Prince William, is father to George, 5, Charlotte, 4, Louis, 1, with wife Kate. Dressed in a checked grey suit adorned with a flower, Charles smiled warmly as he chatted with a mother holding her young baby After taking a walk around the development, Charles planted a tree to pay tribute to the scheme Prince Charles' visit comes as the Duchy of Cornwall has launched a crackdown on homeowners making unauthorised alterations to their properties in his designer village. Officials in Poundbury, Dorset, want to check that changes like extensions previously agreed by the Duchy office are not getting out of hand. They are inspecting homes armed with clipboards and cameras to establish the works are in harmony with Prince Charles' original designs for Poundbury. A letter sent to residents reveals the audit will be carried out by a commercial building surveyor over the coming weeks. However, the possible sanctions for those properties which have carried out unauthorised works are not disclosed. It reads: 'For some time now the Duchy have been aware of unauthorised works undertaken on Poundbury which other residents on Poundbury naturally assume, because of the stipulations, has received Duchy approval. Charles, 70, who has helped create the new community 'Poundbury' on the fringes of Dorset, which mixes private and affordable housing mix with places of work and services, was seen chatting with homeowners in nearby Powerstock The Prince of Wales leaves a house during his visit to Powerstock Affordable Housing Development, Forge Orchard, Powerstoc 'As the extent of this unauthorised work grows the Duchy find it harder to control those works that they are asked to approve as the people asking for the approval then make reference to unauthorised works of the same or similar to what they are proposing. 'In fairness to all and in order to take firm control of the situation the Duchy has decided to carry out a full audit of all works that have taken place on Poundbury buildings whether granted approval or not. 'The results of this audit will then inform future decisions made by the Duchy on alteration work. 'The photographic record is purely to establish the extent of works undertaken that are not in harmony with the spirit of the original design guide which has prevailed on Poundbury since the development began.' Prince Charles has created Poundbury as a utopian idyll where private and affordable housing mix with boutique shops, places of work and services like the local school and medical centre within walking distance. Charles is pictured meeting with residents, members of the housing association and landowners People wait to see the Prince of Wales during his visit to Powerstock Affordable Housing Development, Forge Orchard, The Prince of Wales talks with an artisit during his visit to the Duchy of Cornwall office in Poundbury in Dorchester The Prince of Wales (centre) walks to the Duchy of Cornwall office in Poundbury in Dorchester Using a design created by master planner Leon Krier, the Duchy of Cornwall began construction on Poundbury in 1993. It is due for completion in 2025 when it will have a population of around 5,000 people in 2,500 homes. Residents must sign an agreement when buying a property there on the development agreeing not to make alterations without the Duchy's permission. On its website the Duchy says: 'The architecture of Poundbury is unashamedly traditional and reflects the local style, but it is not a village; it is an urban extension to Dorchester.' A Duchy of Cornwall spokesperson said: 'A survey is currently being undertaken by the Duchy of Cornwall to identify changes made to Poundbury over the development's 25 year history. 'This will enable Duchy staff to work with the community in Poundbury to maintain the development's ethos on architecture and urban planning, for the benefit of both current and future owners and residents.' Charles talks with an artisit during his visit to the Duchy of Cornwall office in Poundbury in Dorchester The Prince of Wales receives a boomerang repurposed bag by Austin Biddle, eight, during his visit to the Duchy of Cornwall office in Poundbury in Dorchester, Charles shares a joke with sculptor Angelika Seik during his visit to the Duchy of Cornwall office Queen Letizia of Spain looked polished to perfection today as she joined her husband, King Felipe at the La Caixa' scholarship awards in Madrid. The royal, 46, donned a trendy pastel check top which she paired with wide-leg cropped trousers to meet award-winners. Showing off her sartorial prowess, the mother-of-two teetered through the stage in pastel pink heels with a clear perspex strap. Queen Letizia of Spain looked polished to perfection today as she joined her husband, King Felipe at the La Caixa' scholarship awards in Madrid The royal, 46, donned a trendy pastel check top which she paired with wide-leg cropped trousers to meet award-winners Showing how to keep cool and classy in the Spanish heat, Letizia wore a long check jacket over a pink vest Wearing her brunette hair loose, her soft waves swept her shoulders and were tucked behind her ear to show a flash of her drop earrings. The former journalist kept her make-up to a minimum, showing off her natural beauty while on stage. Later, she linked arms with husband Felipe, who sported a vibrant blue tie and and charcoal suit. Continuing to reign high in the style stakes, the royal paired the springtime outfit with a sleek white clutch. Wearing her brunette hair loose, the soft waves swept her shoulders and was tucked behind her ear to show a flash of her drop earrings The former journalist kept her make-up to a minimum, showing off her natural beauty while on stage Later, she linked arms with husband Felipe, who sported a vibrant blue tie and and charcoal suit Her appearance comes less than a week after the thrifty Queen appeared in a 10 Zara jumpsuit to attend the 'Microfinanzas BBVA' Foundation debate in Madrid. Her jumpsuit, which features loose fitting bottom half which makes it look like a dress, was on sale on the Zara website for just 9.99, reduced from 49.99, before selling out. Queen Letizia is mother to Princesses Leonor, 13, and Sofia, 11, with husband King Felipe, 50, who ascended to the Spanish throne in 2014. Queen Letizia is mother to Princesses Leonor, 13, and Sofia, 11, with husband King Felipe, 50, who ascended to the Spanish throne in 2014 Queen of the High Street! The Spanish royal rewore a stunning teal jumpsuit from Zara, which was on sale for just 9.99 before selling out, to today's event Letizia married King Felipe fifteen years ago at Cathedral Santa Maria la Real de la Almudena in Madrid. The royal has had a busy week, as she celebrated her wedding anniversary to King Felipe the day before her appearance in Madrid. The relationship began in November 2002 and in 2003, just months after she had been promoted to the position of anchor on the national news channel, she quit her job and days later the royal engagement was announced. Letizia married King Felipe fifteen years ago at Cathedral Santa Maria la Real de la Almudena in Madrid The royal has had a busy week, as she celebrated her wedding anniversary to King Felipe the day before her appearance in Madrid Letizia is the granddaughter of a taxi driver and the eldest daughter of Jesus Jose Ortiz Alvarez, a journalist, and first wife Maria de la Paloma Rocasolano Rodriguez, a nurse and hospital union representative She attended public high school and did a degree at the Complutense University of Madrid. She later gained an MA in Audiovisual Journalism at the Institute for Studies in Audiovisual Journalism King Juan Carlos abdicated in 2014 in favour of his son, now King Felipe VI (pictured handing out a reward) Letizia is the granddaughter of a taxi driver and the eldest daughter of Jesus Jose Ortiz Alvarez, a journalist, and first wife Maria de la Paloma Rocasolano Rodriguez, a nurse and hospital union representative. She attended public high school and did a degree at the Complutense University of Madrid. She later gained an MA in Audiovisual Journalism at the Institute for Studies in Audiovisual Journalism. King Juan Carlos abdicated in 2014 in favour of his son, now King Felipe VI. Jessa Duggar gave birth to her third child this weekend, bringing her total number of offspring up to three. The 26-year-old announced on Tuesday that she and her husband Ben Seewald, 24, welcomed a little girl their first daughter on Sunday, May 26. Weighing 7 pounds, 14 ounces, little Ivy Jane Seewald measured 20.6 inches when she came into the world. Now that Jessa has given birth, there are four Duggar girls and wives still pregnant: Josh's wife Anna, 30, Joy Anna, 21, Joseph's wife Kendra, 20, and Josiah's wife Lauren, 20. Family of five: Jessa Duggar and her husband Ben Seewald welcomed their third child, a baby girl named Ivy Jane (pictured), on Sunday Growing brood: Proud mom Jessa, 26, and her husband Ben, 24, already have two children, sons Spurgeon, three, and Henry, two She's here: Aunt Jana has also posted a picture of the newest member of the family Jessa wrote about the newest addition to their family on their blog on Tuesday. 'We were getting ready for church when my water broke, and we were thinking "Well, I guess we have a change of plans!" she said. 'After three and a half hours of labor, Ivy was born at 5:57pm. Her due date was June 5th, and since both of our boys went five days past their due date, we thought we would go late again. 'We were so surprised when she came two weeks earlier than her brothers. We definitely werent expecting that! 'She feels so tiny compared to her siblings!' she went on. 'Spurgeon was born at nearly 10lbs, and Henry close to 9lbs. Were so grateful to God for this precious gift. She is already so loved. Her big brothers adore her!' As she referenced in her post, Jessa and Ben already have two sons: three-year-old Spurgeon Elliot and two-year-old Henry Wilberforce. Ivy Jane certainly has the most conventional-sounding name of the kids in her family. Sleeping beauty: Images of the newborn were also shared on the official Seewald Family Instagram account by one of Ben's nearest and dearest Hairy: Younger sister Joy Anna has met the little girl and commented on her full head of hair Big cuz: Ivy also got to meet her cousin Gideon, who is Joy Anna's son Family time: Ben's mother Guinn (left) and his sister Michelle (right) also had a chance to meet the newborn girl Spurgeon was named in honor of nineteenth century British preacher Charles Spurgeon, and got his middle name from missionaries Jim and Elisabeth Elliot. Henry, meanwhile, was named after seventeenth century preacher Matthew Henry and eighteenth century politician William Wilberforce. The couple has not yet revealed where Ivy Jane got her name from. However, the little girl has already been introduced to some of her aunts and uncles. Jessa's older sister Jana shared a snap of the baby on her personal Instagram account, writing: 'Welcome to the world little Ivy Jane Seewald! So excited for you Jess and Ben.... your first little girl!' Meanwhile, younger sister Joy Anna has posted two photos in her Instagram Stories including one of Ivy with her cousin Gideon at what appears to be their very first meeting. Ben's mother Guinn and his sister Michelle also had the chance to meet the newest member of the family, with photos posted to the official Seewald Family account showing the two women each cradling the newborn girl in their arms. Jessa and Ben married in November 2014 at the First Baptist Church in Bentonville, Arkansas. They announced in January that they were expecting their third, and told Us that they knew there was a big transition coming. Expert breeders: Jessa last shared this mirror selfie on May 21 at 38 weeks pregnant Two boys: Ivy Jane is the happy couple's first daughter, and will be a baby sister to Spurgeon (left) and Henry (right) Busy: Ben said he anticipated that having three kids would be harder since they're now outnumbered 'We realize that were about to switch from man-to-man to zone coverage, so we've definitely been taking advice from friends who are already in this stage!' Ben said. 'We love being parents and are really looking forward to this new arrival!' In the last few days before their family went from four to five, Jessa was still up and about and posting on Instagram. On May 21, she shared the last baby bump mirror selfie of her pregnancy on social media. 'I honestly cant believe it. It seems like this pregnancy has flown by!' she wrote. 'Can anybody else attest to that fact that when you have toddler or two keeping you on your toes, pregnancy just seems to fly by??' She also wrote that she's been using apps to keep her 'in tune the status of this little ones growth and development,' and liked Pregnancy+ in particular.' Before that, she's shared a mirror selfie at 31 weeks, writing: that she was 'definitely a bit bigger than I was at this point in my pregnancy with Henry (who was born 8lbs 11oz), but smaller than I was with Spurgeon (who was born 9lbs 11oz). 'What can I say those Duggar genes grow em big. Besides the twins, my mom had all 8-9lb babies for the first half, and then 7-8lb babies for the second half. Most of the grand babies have been in the 8-9lb range so far, and one was a little over 10lb!' Luckily for Jessa who experienced a difficult home birth with Spurgeon that left her bleeding and forced her to rush to the hospital Ivy was her smallest baby yet. Fruitful: Jessa's family prizes fertility, and nearly all of her married siblings have already had children or are expecting Flashback: The couple is pictured in December celebrating with an 'ugly sweater party' which Jessa appears to have understood more than Ben Inevitable announcement: In mid-May, Josiah and Lauren Duggar revealed that they are expecting once again, seven months after she miscarried Everybody's bumpin' along! Josiah's sister Joy Anna, 21, who is married to Austin Forsyth, 25, is also pregnant, and showed off her baby bump in photos from a wedding this weekend The birth will no doubt be explored in the next season of the family's TLC show Counting On. Now that Jessa has given birth, it's down to just five Duggar children currently expecting babies though that number could change any day. On May 20, Josiah, 22, and his wife Lauren, 20, announced that they are expecting 'baby #2' after Lauren miscarried in October. The couple had only been married since June and had just recently discovered the pregnancy when they lost it. Over the weekend, while Josiah's sister Jessa was giving birth, his wife Lauren was showing off her baby bump at Carlin Bates' wedding. Also expecting are Joy Anna, 21, and her husband Austin Forsyth, 25. The couple already has a one-year-old son named Gideon but now have another on the way. Joy Anna and Austin were also at Carlin's wedding, with Joy Anna serving as bridesmaid and cradling her bump in photos. Josh, 31 who infamously was discovered to have molested his sisters as a teenager and was caught with a profile on the adultery website Ashley Madison in 2015 and his wife Anna revealed she is pregnant with their sixth child. Big brood: Anna is expecting number six with Josh, adding to nine-year-old Mackynzie, seven-year-old Michael, five-year-old Marcus, three-year-old Meredith, and one-year-old Mason Another on the way! Joseph and Kendra recently announced they are expecting their second child (pictured with baby Garrett) Lots of babies: Jinger, 25, has a nine-month-old daughter named Felicity with her husband Jeremy Vuolo The rest of the fam: Jill and husband Derick Dillard have three-year-old Israel and one-year-old Samuel (left), while John David, 29, and Abbie, 26, have yet to announce a pregnancy (right) Joe, 24, and his wife Kendra, 20, are also expecting their second, a little sibling for big brother Garrett. Sister Jill, 27, and Derick Dillard have two sons, four-year-old Israel and one-year-old Samuel, and Jinger, 25, has a nine-month-old daughter named Felicity with her husband Jeremy Vuolo. Neither have announced that they are pregnant again. Only newlyweds John David, 29, and Abbie, 26, have yet to announce a pregnancy. The Duggar parents, Michelle and Jim Bob, have been outspoken against birth control, saying that they welcomed as many children as God saw fit to give them. Jim Bob revealed that initially, they thought they'd have just two or three kids, and Michelle went on the pill for the first few years of their marriage. But after having their eldest son Josh, Michelle went back on the pill and got pregnant while taking it. They ended up losing that baby, and were so grieved that, through prayer, they decided to 'give that area of our life to the Lord,' letting God decide on when and how often they would have kids. Jamie Oliver has been welcomed back to Instagram by fans - a week after posting about the collapse of his restaurant empire. The celebrity chef, 44, who was forced to appoint administrators after his Jamie's Italian restaurant chain ran up a 71.5 million debt last week, revealed his devastation in an Instagram post last week - in which he turned the comments off. However the 43-year-old made a triumphant return to the social media platform today, with a photo showing a spread of asparagus that attracted over 31,000 likes and a stream of supportive messages. Scroll down for video Jamie Oliver (pictured), 44, has been welcomed back to Instagram by fans, a week after posting about the collapse of his Italian restaurant chain The celebrity chef who celebrated his birthday yesterday, received a stream of comments and belated birthday wishes after posting a photo of asparagus Jamie's previous post which shared his devastation over the closure of his restaurants, had the comments section unavailable to followers Jamie who has over 7 million followers on Instagram, captioned the vegetables with four hearts. The post received a stream of comments welcoming him back to social media along with a few belated birthday messages. One person said: 'Good to have you back here' Another wrote: 'Good to see you back, my man. HBD too. #asparaguscake' A third added: 'Gorgeous. Welcome back and MANY happy returns.' A number of commenters revealed they love asparagus and shared their favourite recipes Jamie's solemn return to Instagram with a photo of asparagus instead of birthday celebrations, could be a subtle hint towards his new vegetarian recipe book which is currently available for pre-order. Last week Jamie chose to turn off comments for the post, which acknowledged that as many as 1,300 jobs are at risk from the restaurant's woes. The TV chef, who debuted his Italian chain of restaurants in 2008, has made 240 million during his 20 years in the public eye. Jamie attempted to revive the restaurant empire by ploughing 12.7million of his own money into the struggling business in 2017. According to the Manchester Evening News, a member of staff who works in Manchester's Jamie Italian revealed that employees won't be receiving redundancy payouts. Revealing his anguish over the direction of the business, Jamie's previous Instagram post read: 'I'm devastated that our much-loved UK restaurants have gone into administration. 'I am deeply saddened by this outcome and would like to thank all the people who have put their hearts and souls into this business over the years.' A group of fifth-grade Girl Scouts in western Ohio sparked change where adults wouldn't this spring and got lockers for menstrual products installed in their bathrooms. The unnamed school has several rules in place that make it incredibly difficult for girls to bring pads or tampons to the lavatory with them an aggravating issue for menstruating women of any age, but an especially anxiety-producing one for newly-pubescent girls. So the Girl Scouts lobbied the parent-teacher organization to have lockers installed in each of the bathrooms, and then helped raise funds for the project with their Girl Scout Cookie money. Teamwork makes the dream work: A group of fifth grade Girl Scouts in Ohio lobbied their school to install feminine hygiene product lockers in the bathrooms According to Good Morning America, the Ohio school doesn't allow students to carry bags with them during the school day which is, naturally, where girls would stash away their hygiene products. The school also requires uniforms, which have no pockets. So for students on their period, it was an embarrassing and difficult struggle to get the products they needed to the bathroom with them. The girls were given the option to go to the school nurse and request a pad or tampon whenever they needed one. Many, unsurprisingly, avoided this option and would find ways to sneak what they needed in their sleeves or skirt waistbands. 'Our choices were to stress, or worry about hiding something. Miss class time, or risk being found out,' one of the girls who solved the problem, named Jordan, told Teen Vogue. Going to work: The youngsters decided to take action after their school implemented a rule against bags, making it difficult for them to carry around tampons and pads discreetly Tough: After getting permission from the school to install the locker, the girls used money from cookie sales in order to buy materials needed, then put the unit together themselves 'We didn't like any of the choices. You want to feel confident and empowered at school, not stressed and distracted. It made the most sense to have products in bathrooms, where you need them.' Plus, she said, making it harder for girls to get those products to the bathroom just waste time. 'If you leave to go for a long time and come back and you were working on a work sheet, but then when the class finished it and you have no idea where they're at,' she said. So she and other members of her Girl Scout troop banded together to lobby the parent teacher organization for a solution. 'We never really set out to really change the world with our project, but we knew that it could make a world of a difference to the girls in our school,' Reagan, another student involved, told GMA. They wrote a letter, first asking for individual lockers in bathrooms. When they were told no, they countered with asking for one big locker with cubbies that students could share. Support: 'This project is important to us because it encourages girls more, and [makes] them feel comfortable at school and confident,' the girls said of the lockers In December, their plan was signed off on. The Girls Scouts helped pay for the new lockers with the money they made selling cookies, and even assembled the lockers themselves. 'This project is important to us because it encourages girls more, and [makes] them feel comfortable at school and confident,' another girl involved, Alexis, told GMA. 'And it's really fun to help out girls in our community.' 'I wanted to pursue the project with my Girl Scout troop because I felt girls needed a way to be confident and have support during their periods,' Jordan added to Teen Vogue 'The lockers help girls be confident because instead of having to go down to the nurse and catch up with the work later, they can know the supplies are waiting for them.' The girls' troop leader, Jen Strickler, was quite proud of them, and told GMA that it was inspirational seeming them work together to make things better for others. Now that the lockers are installed, Reagan said she wants other girls to read about what they did and be inspired to fight for change in their own schools. She also hopes that lockers in girls' bathrooms will become standard. Where do you sit on a scale of zero to tense? Four out of five adults feel stressed during a typical week, and one in ten feels stressed all the time, according to a recent survey. Meanwhile, more than half a million people suffer from work-related stress, anxiety or depression, the Health and Safety Executive reported last year. And stress is as bad for our physical health as our mental health a 2017 review led by Iranian researchers concluded that many disorders originate from stress, pointing to further links with heart attacks, heart rhythm disorders and high blood pressure, as well as inflammatory bowel disease. Are you feeling it? More than half a million people suffer from work-related stress, anxiety or depression, the Health and Safety Executive reported last year Even relatively minor stresses, such as a flat tyre or a disagreement with a colleague, have been linked with a greater risk of chronic illness and impaired mobility in later life, according to a study by the University of California last year. Stress is also known to play a role in weight gain, prompting the body to lay down fat, particularly around the abdominal organs. Whether we really are all so stressed is up for debate, but whatever the answer, a new crop of DIY stress tests have popped up in response to this epidemic. These range from blood and saliva tests that measure levels of cortisol the stress hormone which gives us an extra burst of energy and alertness in response to stressors, making the heart beat faster, increasing blood pressure and suppressing non-essential functions, such as digestion or reproduction to DNA tests that tell you if you are predisposed to stress and anxiety. Prices vary from around 39 for a fingerprick kit to test morning cortisol levels (forthwithlife.co.uk) up to 165 for a full DNA analysis. But do you really need a test to tell you if youre stressed? According to Professor Angela Clow, a psychophysiologist at the University of Westminster, perhaps you do. Sometimes there can be a mismatch between how people perceive their stress levels and their biological response to it, she says. Our physiological response to stress is unknowable to us in the same way that you cant know your blood pressure without taking a reading. Did you know? Even relatively minor stresses, such as a flat tyre or a disagreement with a colleague, have been linked with a greater risk of chronic illness and impaired mobility in later life, according to a study by the University of California, last year To find out how stressed I am, I take a saliva test measuring my cortisol levels (79, thriva.co) and another that claims to tell me about my genetic response to stress (Health Fit, 165, dnafit.com). Im hoping I will pass with flying colours. After a difficult period of trying and failing to have a baby, Ive recently swapped my busy office job (and up to three hours of commuting a day) for a gentler pace of life working from home: I get more sleep, do regular yoga, and take lunchtime walks. The Thriva test involves taking four saliva samples throughout the day within an hour of waking up, then at 12pm, 4pm, and just before bed by chewing on small pieces of sponge (and yes, it is as horrible as it sounds). These are sent back to the lab, the results interpreted by a doctor and a report is emailed to you containing a graph plotting your cortisol levels throughout the day. If any results fall outside the normal range youre advised on how to improve them, such as by eating more regularly which Thriva says can help keep blood sugar stable, which in turn stops cortisol spikes or meditating. I do the test on a fairly uneventful day working from home. I go for a walk at lunchtime and in the evening, my husband and I relax in front of the telly. Fundamentally, cortisol is not bad for you, says Professor Clow. Its an essential hormone with multiple functions including the stress response, but its main one is to regulate its 24-hour biological clock. The level of cortisol signals to cells what time of day it is. So levels fluctuate throughout the day, even without any stress. We get a huge burst of cortisol in the morning to get us going, peaking around 30 minutes after we wake up, and then slowly tapering off until levels reach their lowest point just before bed. According to Thriva, cortisol in the morning should range between 6 and 21nmol/L, whereas last thing at night it should be between 0.1 and 2nmol/L. Anything above this would be considered too high but, counterintuitively, low cortisol levels can also suggest chronic stress. If you experience something stressful, the normal response is for cortisol to rise, to prepare for the challenge and then go back down. But if youre stressed all the time your levels start to remain high. Thats the first stage people at this point might have trouble sleeping and feel tired but wired, explains Dr Vishal Shah, a GP and medical director of Thriva. But over time, if stress is relentless, you might actually start to produce less cortisol. Approaching burn-out? Four out of five adults feel stressed during a typical week, and one in ten feels stressed all the time, according to a recent survey Thats not a good thing. It shows that the system that controls the release of cortisol, the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis, is not functioning as it should. With chronic stress, you start to get lower levels of cortisol in the morning and higher levels at night, so you end up with a flat cycle, explains Professor Clow. This means vital biological processes in our bodies are not getting proper information about day and night, and start failing to function properly. Over time, whatever system of yours happens to be your vulnerable spot, whether your cardiovascular health or immune system, will be exposed. And what about the gene test? This looks at, among other things, which versions you have of genes that affect factors involved in our stress response. You swab a sample from inside your cheek, and then post it off for analysis. DNAfit then produces a report for you. My report suggests I have a low tolerance for stress, based on the versions I have of 12 different genes. These include the COMT gene, which controls an enzyme of the same name that helps balance chemical messengers in the brain, such as dopamine and adrenaline, breaking them down if levels go above a certain point. I produce slightly less of this enzyme. And this suggests I am a strategist rather than a warrior a worrier, in other words, according to Craig Pickering, head of sport science at DNAfit. Warrior gene types tend to work best under pressure, he explains. Whereas someone with your genetic make-up may do better working at a steadier pace, with longer to prepare. This is unfortunate news for a journalist. Tight deadlines come with the territory. But should I be, errr, worried about my worrier tendencies? Dr Giles Yeo, a geneticist from the Medical Research Councils Metabolic Diseases Unit at the University of Cambridge, is unconvinced. While there are known gene variations that mean a person will have a certain characteristic such as blue eyes or lactose intolerance the relationship between other gene variants and certain traits is less clear. Many traits including our response to stress are polygenic, which means its not down to any one gene, but a mix, adds Dr Yeo. In short, its impossible for a test like this to say for certain. What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder caused by very stressful, frightening or distressing events. People with PTSD often suffer nightmares and flashbacks to the traumatic event and can experience insomnia and an inability to concentrate. Symptoms are often severe enough to have a serious impact on the persons day-to-day life, and can emerge straight after the traumatic event or years later. PTSD is thought to affect about one in every three people who have a traumatic experience, and was first documented in the First World War in soldiers with shell shock. People who are worried they have PTSD should visit their GP, who could recommend a course of psychotherapy or anti-depressants, the NHS say. Combat Stress operate a 24-hour helpline for veterans, which can be reached on 0800 138 1619. Advertisement As for the cortisol test, my results came back as mostly normal albeit with a spike at 4pm to 9.79 nmol/L. Thriva suggests it should be below 5.5. This is not dangerous, but could reflect that you are experiencing stress, says the doctors report. Professor Clow isnt too concerned though. It could have been anything you could have had a meeting or missed the bus, in which case a little burst of cortisol would be entirely normal. In an ideal world, Id suggest you need to look at it over a couple of days research has shown that six days is best. But that might be asking too much of most people. At 79 a go, it wouldnt be a cheap experiment. As for whether the tests are a good approach: Im in two minds, says Professor Clow. Part of me thinks that people should be able to monitor their cortisol levels and use that information to take ownership of their health. But I worry about the feedback people will get and whether it will frighten them unnecessarily. Cortisol monitoring could be helpful in managing type 2 diabetes, she says. Type 2 diabetes is an insensitivity to insulin, which means you cant take up glucose the sugar in your blood properly. But because cortisol facilitates the release of glucose into the bloodstream it can make it worse. Its a double whammy. Thrivas Dr Shah believes home testing makes people more likely to take action over their health. In my experience, you can talk to patients about the importance of managing stress, but, for them to take that message fully on board, it helps to provide physical evidence, he says. I can see his point. Looking at the results in black and white did make me reflect: lately Ive been sleeping a little worse, and the hours spent at my desk were slowly creeping up again. And while I cant see any editor going for the I need a longer deadline, its in my genes excuse, Im reconsidering an as-yet-untouched mindfulness and relaxation colouring book I was given for Christmas. Perhaps my family were trying to tell me something long before the tests did . . . Men are damaging their chances of having children by going to the gym 'to look wonderful and attract women', experts have warned. Scientists have said drugs used for muscle growth and anti-baldness pills can have side effects including erectile dysfunction and infertility. The ironic effect has been labelled the Mossman-Pacey paradox after the scientists who first described it, noticing more buff men needing fertility tests. Men are damaging their ability to have children by going to the gym 'to look wonderful and attract women': Experts warn about misuse of steroids and anti-baldness pills. Stock photo Professor Allan Pacey, from the University of Sheffield, told the BBC: 'Isn't it ironic that men go to the gym to look wonderful, for the most part to attract women, and inadvertently decrease their fertility.' Dr James Mossman, at Brown University Rhode Island, said: 'They [some men] are trying to look really big, to look like the pinnacles of evolution. 'But they are making themselves very unfit in an evolutionary sense, because without exception they had no sperm in their ejaculation at all.' Dr Mossman was at Sheffield University studying for his doctorate when he noticed a lot of the men coming in to have their fertility tested were 'huge'. He then made the connection between poor fertility and the use of anabolic steroids, which are used to increase muscle mass and performance in the gym. Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), a type of image and performance-enhancing drug (IPEDs), are synthetically produced versions of the naturally occurring male sex hormone testosterone. HOW DO STEROIDS HARM FERTILITY? Anabolic steroids (also called anabolic-androgenic steroids) are drugs that are used to build muscle mass, improve performance or decrease body fat. Whether AAS are injected or taken orally they work by mimicking testosterone. When they enter the blood stream they attach to specific receptors at cell level. This allows them to enter the nucleus of the cell, which in turn helps the cell to create and retain more protein. This process is called protein synthesis. It is this construction of new proteins that is associated with increased muscle size and strength. Anabolic steroids harm male fertility by interfering with the hormone signals that are needed to produce sperm. They fool the brain's pituitary gland into thinking the testes are working too hard, and so the glands react by stopping the production of two hormones - called FSH and LH. If used for long enough and in high enough doses, the damage to male fertility can become permanent. In some case, it may take up to a year for sperm production to return to normal having stopped the anabolic steroids. Advertisement However, they can block the production of testosterone in the testicles themselves, which is crucial for sperm production. The effect can be reversed once the man stops using steroids in three months to a year. But if used for a long time in high doses, it can damage fertility permanently. Professor Pacey, former chairman of the British Fertility Society, estimates that 90 per cent of anabolic steroid uses become sterile. Anti-baldness pills are not as much of a concern, he said, however they are rising starkly in sales. The drug finasteride, which is prescription only in the UK, lists sexual dysfunction as a 'very common' side effect, which includes a lower sex drive and the inability to get an erection. It limits hair loss by changing the way testosterone is metabolised in the body, stopping it from being converted into dihydrotestosterone, a male androgen that's been linked to balding. In a study conducted by The George Washington University, published in JAMA Dermatology in 2014, roughly five per cent of men taking the medication experienced a decline in sperm count. Dr Mossman believes humans are the only animals that sacrifice their fertility success in the hopes of attracting the opposite sex. The two experts warned that men may be unclear on the potentially life-changing side effects of their vanity. Professor Pacey said: 'It keeps cropping up in clinics and the message is not getting out to young men that it's a problem and a bit of info could save them a lot of heartache.' Drug charity FRANK warns users of IPEDS may become hooked on the way the drugs make them look and feel. The NHS warns they are addictive. People of all ages have been known to misuse the class C drug, which are the only drug in the UK to have seen a staggering increasing of use. An extra 19,000 young people had taken the drug in the year 2016-2017, official data showed. Scientists have discovered a compound which can destroy antibiotic-resistant bacteria and hailed their work as a 'breakthrough'. They found a type of chemical called a dinuclear Ru(II) complex which may be able to destroy bacteria too strong for treatment with normal medicines. Success in lab tests has given hope for a new way to tackle superbugs, which are becoming more common, more dangerous, and more difficult to stop. Pneumonia, urinary tract infections and gonorrhoea are all caused by the gram-negative type of bacteria used in the tests. And figures estimate that, by 2050, 10million people a year will die because of infections which have evolved to be untreatable. Gram-negative bacteria are more difficult to stop with antibiotics because they have an extra protective membrane on top of their cell wall and drugs may struggle to get through the membrane (stock image) Scientists at the University of Sheffield and Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) are testing the new compound made from the metal ruthenium. They called their work a breakthrough after saying no new treatments for gram-negative bacterial infections have been developed for 50 years and none have even been tested since 2010. Gram-negative bacteria are difficult to destroy because they have an extra protective layer around them, which drugs struggle to get through. But in their research the scientists found the Ru(II) complex was able to destroy gram-negative E.coli, which can cause diarrhoea and vomiting. It destroyed the bacteria by damaging the protective membranes around each one, essentially bursting them. 'This breakthrough could lead to vital new treatments to life-threatening superbugs and the growing risk posed by antimicrobial resistance,' said Professor Jim Thomas. Antimicrobial resistance, also known as antibiotic resistance, already kills 25,000 people each year in Europe because their infections can't be stopped. However, this is expected to soar in the future and the World Health Organization has listed it as one of the biggest dangers faced by humanity. Over-prescribing, people not taking antibiotics properly, and farmers feeding them to animals are all believed to have contributed to the medicines becoming weaker. Part of the problem is the bacteria's ability to evolve as it is exposed to small amounts of the antibiotics and learns how to survive their attacks. This new compound however, has more than one 'mode' of activity, the scientists said, meaning it could be manipulated to target bacteria in different ways. The Sheffield team's research was published in the journal ACS Nano. Next, they will test the Ru(II) complex against different types of antibiotic-resistant bacteria before beginning to test their effects on mammals. Two maggots have been removed from a woman's scalp after she was able to feel something moving underneath her skull. The unidentified patient, in her 50s, had recently returned to her home in the UK following a trip to Argentina, doctors revealed. Feeling unwell because of a pain in her left ear and swollen lymph nodes, she visited her GP and was told she had an infection. She also flagged up two small 'lumps' on her scalp, which her doctor diagnosed as cysts and gave her a course of antibiotics to treat. However, the cysts grew in size over the next three weeks and caused 'stabbing pains', as well as leaking a clear, odourless fluid. One of the maggots that was removed from the woman's scalp is pictured. Medics used Vaseline to lure it out of her skin When she returned to the UK, she flagged up two small 'lumps' on her scalp to her doctor, who diagnosed them as cysts. However, the cysts grew in size of the next three weeks and were causing 'stabbing pains', as well as leaking a clear, odourless fluid (pictured, one of the lumps) Doctors who saw the patient were baffled when blood tests they had taken came back as normal. The woman said a friend 'had suggested' the idea of a parasitic infection quite early on. But she 'accepted the GP's diagnosis of cysts and didnt look into the possibility of a parasite' until the lumps were very painful and difficult to live with. The woman was admitted to a hospital ran by the Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust seven weeks after returning home. By that point, the raised lesions both measured around 2cm in diameter and had tiny openings known as punctums. She had been referred after suggesting the possibility of a human botfly infestation to her GP. The other maggot died and was 'inaccessible'. The woman was wheeled for surgery the next day so the dead maggot could be removed under anaesthetic The patient had been bitten by mosquitoes on several occasions when she travelled to Iguazu Falls, on the border of Brazil. Botflies deposit their eggs on mosquitoes, meaning their larvae can be transmitted to humans if they are bitten by the insects. Medics suggested she may have myiasis - an infection with fly larva. They suspected the human botfly, mainly found in South America, was to blame. Writing in BMJ Case Reports, doctors said: 'The patient reported being able to sense movements within her scalp around the affected regions.' 'A plan was made to extract them by smothering the cysts with Vaseline,' according to Dr Rhys Watkins, the lead author of the report. 'This would occlude the larvae's central punctum, through which they breathe, theoretically forcing them to come up to the surface for air and exit the host.' Only one of the maggots was removed through this method. The other had died and was 'inaccessible'. The woman was wheeled for surgery the next day so the dead maggot could be removed under anaesthetic. 'Both wounds were washed out with saline and antibiotic ointment was applied to the scalp,' Dr Watkins and colleagues wrote. 'The patient was advised to take lukewarm showers twice daily and to continue to apply ointment until the wounds scabbed over.' Writing in the journal, the medics added: 'This particular case is atypical as botfly infestation in humans usually involves a single larva. 'The warmth of the hosts body triggers the fly eggs to hatch, and the larvae then burrow into the subcutaneous tissue.' A consultant the woman saw after the maggots were removed said her swollen lymph glands could have been affected by the larvae. A mother of a teenage organ donor met the man given her son's liver for the first time at the finish line of a walking challenge. Karen Glean was waiting at the end of the London to Brighton 100k Challenge to congratulate Steve Dunster and say hello face-to-face. The 50-year-old feared it may be awkward finally meeting Mr Dunster - even though they had exchanged emails for many months. But when she embraced the electrical engineer she 'got a sense of Ben', her 18-year-old who died in December 2017 from a cardiac arrest. Discussing the moment she met Mr Dunster, who needed a new liver after being given a cancer diagnosis, Ms Glean said it was 'surreal'. Karen Glean was waiting at the end of the London to Brighton 100k Challenge to congratulate Steve Dunster and say hello face-to-face (pictured together) The 50-year-old feared it may be awkward finally meeting Mr Dunster - even though they had exchanged emails for many months (pictured with her son Ben, who died in December 2017) Ms Glean, who lives in Cardiff, added: 'We went for coffee and I bought a bottle of champagne and we had a toast to Ben. 'The most moving moment for me was when I hugged him and Id thought it might be uncomfortable because I dont really know him. 'But it didnt feel like he was a stranger. I got a sense of Ben, it felt comfortable and familiar in a way, which was surreal but really nice at the same time.' Ms Glean had travelled down to the south coast with her older son Michael over the bank holiday weekend to congratulate 54-year-old Mr Dunster. 'To me, hes taking care of my sons liver and using his second chance to improve the lives of others. Because of that Ben is still making a difference,' she said. 'As the walk got closer I started to feel a bit nervous, thinking would Steve be a nice person? Would he be the sort of person who Ben would like? When Ben (pictured) died just three months after his 18th birthday, Ms Glean had no hesitation in making the decision to donate his organs Ms Glean later discovered Ben's kidneys had gone to two people in their 30s and his corneas gave sight back to two more people (pictured together) IS ENGLAND GOING TO HAVE OPT-OUT DONATIONS? Opt-out organ donation will become law from 2020 after a Government bill was finally approved in March. The Queen gave royal assent for the bill - also known as Max and Keira's law after the donated heart of Keira Bell, nine, saved the life of Max Johnson, 10, in 2017. This meant The Organ Donation Act's changes to consent come into effect next year. Expected to save hundreds of lives every year, the change will mean all adults' organs can be taken after they die unless they specifically tell the NHS otherwise. Schoolboy Max Johnson said of the decision at the time: 'Even if it saves just one life, it will be worth it.' Advertisement 'All of a sudden, I was finally going to get to meet this man, knowing that inside his body is a piece of my son.' She added it was a 'proud moment' to know her son is responsible for Mr Dunster, a father-of-two, still being alive. 'As his mum, it doesnt feel as though hes gone just because his bodys not here anymore,' Ms Glean said. 'Hes still part of my life, hes still my son, his humour's still here and he still influences my decisions in the same way he did when he was alive. 'For me its quite a lonely existence without him but to meet Steve, and know that the reason he was there was because of Ben, was amazing.' When Ben died just three months after his 18th birthday, Ms Glean had no hesitation in making the decision to donate his organs. He passed away in the intensive care of Grimsbys Diana Princess of Wales Hospital, following the cardiac arrest triggered by his undiagnosed type 1 diabetes. It was something the pair had spoken about and which the teenager, who dreamed of becoming a police officer, strongly believed in. 'Ben is the youngest of my two sons and had a character that could light up a room,' Ms Glean said. 'He was studying for his A levels at the time of his death and had passed the first stage to become a Special Constable. 'His dream was to become a police officer for our local force where he wanted to make a difference to the area and promote equality for all.' Ms Glean said she knew that Ben would have wished for his organs to be donated to people in need. Straight after Bens funeral on December 28, Ms Glean spoke to his transplant team and asked if she could write to the patients who received his organs (Ben is pictured playing a guitar) Ben died from a cardiac arrest - when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood around the body - in December 2017 'It was three weeks before Christmas and I just thought, nothing that can be done for Ben now,' she added. 'But just by saying one word I can make another familys situation better. I could give them the miracle we couldnt have.' Ms Glean later discovered Ben's kidneys had gone to two people in their 30s and his corneas gave sight back to two more people. Mr Dunster was diagnosed with liver cancer and told he needed a transplant just eight days before Bens death. He received Ben's liver. Straight after Bens funeral on December 28, Ms Glean spoke to his transplant team and asked if she could write to the patients who received his organs. WHAT IS A CARDIAC ARREST? A cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood around the body, which is usually due to a problem with electrical signals in the organ. This causes the brain to be starved of oxygen, which results in sufferers not breathing and losing consciousness. In the UK, more than 30,000 cardiac arrests occur a year outside of hospital, compared to over 356,000 in the US. Cardiac arrests are different to heart attacks, with the latter occurring when blood supply to the heart muscle is cut off due to a clot in one of the coronary arteries. Common causes include heart attacks, heart disease and heart muscle inflammation. Drug overdose and losing a large amount of blood can also be to blame. Giving an electric shock through the chest wall via a defibrillator can start the heart again. In the meantime, CPR can keep oxygen circulating around the body. Advertisement 'I told them Ben would have died anyway, Id rather he died and helped someone, and I thanked them for taking a piece of him and looking after it,' she said. When Mr Dunster wrote back, the two found an instant connection and parallels with their family lives. Transplant recipients 'may wish to write a letter of thanks to their donor family once they personally feel ready to do so post-transplant', the NHS states. 'We didnt talk about the donation much, or even about Ben,' she said. 'We just talked about everyday life really and it was such an inspiration for me to get to know him.' Mr Dunster who has been campaigning to raise awareness of organ donation, said discovering his donor was so young was surprising. 'It probably hit me harder than I care to admit, to find out he had all his life in front of him did come as a shock,' he said. 'But even though that first letter from Karen didnt go into details, it gave enough that I felt comforted.' Mr Dunster added: 'Now I do feel that I am "looking after" the liver that I was so fortunate to receive.' Ms Glean said Mr Dunster's charity work has helped her to cope since Bens death because it feels as though his drive is still there. 'And Im more driven because its as if Ben is behind me going "go on mum" every time I tell his story or do anything to highlight the things he cared about,' she said. A New York woman says she is 'relieved' after what doctors believed to be a brain tumor turned out to be a parasite. Last year, 42-year-old Rachel Palma began having trouble remembering words and was experiencing slight tremors in her hands. Doctor and doctor couldn't figure out what was wrong, until surgeons at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City told her she had a malignant brain tumor and they planned to remove it. But in September, when doctors opened her skull for the three-hour operation, they didn't find a marble-size brain tumor, but rather a tapeworm, reported ABC 7. Rachel Palma, 42 (left and right), from Middletown, New York, started forgetting words and experiencing tremors in January 2018. Doctors at Mount Sinai Hospital performed scans and concluded Palma had a brain tumor In September 2018, doctors planned to remove the tumor. But, instead, they found a tapeworm in Palma's brain (pictured) To some patients, hearing that they have a tapeworm would be disheartening news, but not to Palma. 'The good news is, I don't have cancer,' she told ABC 7. Palma, from Middletown, said she first started experiencing symptoms in January 2018. She was dropping coffee mugs, struggled to complete sentences and even tried to contact family members that had passed away. She visited several doctors and had multiple scans, but had no answers - until she visited specialists at Mount Sinai in September. Results from her brain scans showed that she had a small lesion, about the size of a marble, on her right lobe, and doctors planned to remove it one surgery. Her medical team admits they were relieved when they began the surgery and discovered the tapeworm. 'We were, like, overjoyed,' Dr Jonathan Rasouli, chief resident of neurosurgery at Mount Sinai, told ABC 7. 'We were, like, cheering and clapping. We were so happy...When we got in there and saw that it was a tapeworm, we were like: "YES!' We were so happy!"' Tapeworms are long, flat worms that live in the intestines of animals. The most common cause of infection in humans is eating undercooked meat or traveling outside of the US. Tapeworms have evolved specialized 'heads' that carry an arsenal of spines or retractable hooks to attach themselves to the intestines of their hosts. The most common cause of infection in humans is eating undercooked meat or traveling outside of the US, but Palma doesn't remember doing either. Pictured, left and right: Palma after surgery to remove the parasite from her brain Palma (pictured) says she is grateful to her medical team and wants to bring awareness and education about tapeworms to others These parasites don't have a gut of their own. Instead, they use their outer surface to absorb nutrients and excrete waste. According to the Mayo Clinic, tapeworms can leave the intestines and infect other organs in the body. On her part, Palma says she has no idea how she was infected, but doesn't think she wants to know the answer. 'I stopped asking questions and started celebrating and making the most out of life because, in an instant, it can be taken away,' she told ABC 7. Palma says she's grateful to her medical team and wants to bring awareness and education about tapeworms to others. 'There is not a doubt in my mind that [the doctors] saved my life,' she said. 'And they gave me my life back.' A hospital has built a replica bus stop inside its A&E department to help people with dementia feel at home. Southend University Hospital has constructed the stand with its own sign, timetable and bench but no buses will be driving through the department. It's hoped the stop will provide a familiar sight for people suffering from the brain-damaging disease, which can leave them feeling lost, confused and anxious. Research has found giving dementia patients something they remember well to look at can help to calm them down and a bus stop may be recognisable for many. Southend University Hospital has worked with Arriva bus company to build a replica bus stop in its A&E department to help patients with dementia feel more comfortable 'Research has found that individuals become much more relaxed at the sight of a bus stop, sitting down and waiting for their "bus home",' said Sarah Ecclestone, a senior nurse at the hospital. 'Unfortunately, patients with dementia often have short term memory problems and can become agitated in unfamiliar surroundings, often wandering, with the common theme of patients wanting to go home. 'Although patients may have short term memory loss, they are often able to recall familiar everyday landmarks from their long term memory and a bus stop can be one of those.' HOW CAN DEMENTIA PATIENTS' SURROUNDINGS AFFECT THEM? Dementia is well known for causing memory loss, and with this forgetfulness can come a higher risk of getting lost, confused or disorientated. A loss of short-term memory is often what causes this disorientation or confusion people may forget how they got somewhere, why they're there or simply not recognise the place. Long-term memories may persist, however, and showing a patient a photo or place which they remember well from their past may comfort them and make them feel more in control. To this end, scientists have been developing replica towns and self-contained villages to help people with dementia. In the US, a 1950s-themed town has been created in San Diego for this purpose. Town Square looks like a movie set and has a diner, vintage car and old movie theatre which people can visit to reminisce about sights familiar to them. And in France, a specially designed village is being built where people with dementia will actually be able to live. The village will be self-contained and secure but have its own supermarket, hairdresser and gym, all run by plain-clothes nurses. This will allow the patients to live lives as independent as they can without being confined to nursing homes. Advertisement Around 850,000 people in the UK have dementia, which causes nerve connections in the brain to break down. The condition is most often caused by Alzheimer's disease and cannot be cured. Among its symptoms are increasing difficulty understanding language, forgetfulness, poor co-ordination and disorientation. In hospital, patients may often want to go home because they are surrounded by strange sights and people and don't understand what's happening. The bus stop will hopefully act as a distraction for some, the hospital staff say. Ms Ecclestone added: 'It is something they often become fixated upon, and this installation will help put them at ease and take away some of that anxiety.' The development is one of a number of dementia-friendly strategies the hospital has put in place. It has also put all signs and badges on yellow background which are believed to be easier for people with dementia and sight problems to read. And a fake cat which purrs and makes breathing movements, and is named Socks, has been introduced to help calm agitated patients. Bus company Arriva, which runs services in the area, helped to construct the pretend bus stop. General manager for Arriva Herts & Essex, Colin Wright, said: 'We are delighted to be involved in such a thoughtful project. 'When Southend Hospital first approached us, we were honoured to be considered, and even happier to help. 'If the bus stop makes even just one person smile, we'll consider it a success.' A patient's body was set on fire after the defibrillator being used to resuscitate him exploded. Robert Allen, 70, was found dead with burn marks on his shoulder and back when firefighters arrived at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, Texas, in February. Staff insisted Allen was dead before the fire started, but new police reports reveal it was caused by the equipment being pressed against his body. According to the incident report, first published by KHOU 11, the defibrillator swung in an arc, 'a spark went off and ignited the oxygen in the room that had been accidentally left on.' Minutes later, a nurse at the hospital called 911, saying, according to call logs: 'Yes, the 10th floor is full of smoke! And we're pulling the people out and trying to get the oxygen shut off, but you can't even see down the hall the smoke is so bad.' Robert Allen, 70, was found dead with burn marks on his shoulder and back when firefighters arrived at Methodist Hospital (pictured) in San Antonio, Texas, in February She added: 'No, we've had seven fire extinguishers head that way down that hall, but you can't even see down that hall. 'It's so bad we've got people coming out choking.' Most CPR and first aid training courses direct medics to turn off any oxygen before administering a defibrillator. Oxygen is not flammable but it aids combustion, setting the stage for a fire - as has happened numerous times in hospital settings. The problem in many cases is that a patient might require oxygen, an EKG (a heart scan using electrodes), and a defibrillator at the same time - a Catch-22 situation. According to a case study in 1994, in the journal Health Devices, 'oxygen enriches the space around the patient's head and chest and allows an electric arc sometimes produced during defibrillation discharge to ignite body hair. The fire flashes rapidly over the patient, consuming body hair and igniting nearby bedding materials and medical devices.' The American Heart Association recommends putting as much weight onto the defibrillator pads as possible (ideally at least 25lbs per pad) to prevent any space for interference, and to plug in any EKG electrodes as far from the pads as possible. A spokesman for the hospital said in a statement: 'We reported the incident to authorities and conducted an internal review to help ensure this does not happen in the future. 'The safety of our patients is a high priority for us; we regret this incident occurred but are grateful to our staff for reacting quickly in extinguishing the fire and continuing to care for patients.' Missouri's only abortion clinic could be closed by the end of the week because the state is threatening to not renew its license, Planned Parenthood officials said Tuesday. Planned Parenthood officials said in a teleconference that the current license for the St. Louis facility expires Friday. If not renewed, the organization said Missouri would become the first state without a functioning abortion clinic since the 1973 Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision. 'This is not a drill,' said Dr. Leana Wen, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. 'This is not a warning. This is real and it's a public health crisis.' Teresa Pettis, right, greets a passerby outside the Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Louis. Pettis was one of a small number of abortion opponents protesting outside the clinic on the day the Missouri Legislature passed a sweeping measure banning abortions at eight weeks of pregnancy. Planned Parenthood says Missouri's only abortion clinic could be closed by the end of the week because the state is threatening to not renew its license, which expires Friday Planned Parenthood said the state told officials it was investigating 'a large number of possible deficiencies.' The state wanted to interview seven physicians, but the organization said only the two staff physicians agreed to be interviewed. Those interviews will take place later Tuesday. Phone and email messages left for the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and Gov. Mike Parson's office haven't been returned. Missouri is among half a dozen states that have passed sweeping anti-abortion measures. Parson, a Republican, signed a bill Friday banning abortions on or beyond the eighth week of pregnancy, with no exceptions for rape or incest. Under the Missouri law that comes into force August 28, doctors who violate the eight-week cutoff could face five to 15 years in prison. Women who terminate their pregnancies cannot be prosecuted. Wen said a lawsuit has been filed to try and keep the St. Louis clinic open. If it closes, the nearest clinics performing abortions are in a Kansas suburb of Kansas City and in Granite City, Illinois, across the Mississippi River from St. Louis. Wen said Missouri has 'illegally weaponized the licensing process.' Colleen McNicholas, an OB-GYN at the Planned Parenthood office in St. Louis, called it the 'natural consequence of several decades of restriction after restriction.' 'This is precisely what we've been warning of,' McNicholas said. Alabama's governor signed a bill on May 15 making performing an abortion a felony in nearly all cases. Supporters have said they hope to provoke a legal challenge that will eventually force the U.S. Supreme Court to revisit its landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion nationally. Unlike Alabama's near-total abortion ban, lawmakers who helped draft the Missouri bill say it's meant to withstand court challenges instead of spark them. If the eight-week ban is struck down, the bill includes a ladder of less-restrictive time limits at 14, 18 or 20 weeks. Missouri's bill also includes an outright ban on abortions except in cases of medical emergencies, but that would kick in only if Roe v. Wade is overturned. Missouri Right to Life called it 'the strongest pro-life bill in Missouri history.' Kentucky , Mississippi , Ohio and Georgia also have approved bans on abortions once fetal cardiac activity can be detected, which can occur in about the sixth week of pregnancy. Some of those laws already have been challenged in court, and similar restrictions in North Dakota and Iowa have been struck down by judges. Nonetheless, the rash of new legislation has left abortion providers in some of those states uncertain about what they can now do. Even before the latest legislation, Missouri already had some of the most restrictive abortion regulations in the nation, including a requirement that doctors performing abortions have partnerships with nearby hospitals. A total of 3,903 abortions occurred in Missouri in 2017, the last full year for which the state Department of Health and Senior Services has statistics online. Of those, 1,673 occurred at under nine weeks and 119 occurred at 20 weeks or later in a pregnancy. A total of 2,910 abortions occurred in 2018 in Missouri, according to provisional data provided by the health agency. That includes 433 abortions at eight weeks of pregnancy and 267 at six weeks or earlier. McNicholas said there is 'a tremendous amount of confusion' among women who come to the Planned Parenthood clinic because of all of the recent laws. Meanwhile, the ACLU of Missouri is seeking a statewide vote on Missouri's new abortion law. The ACLU said Tuesday that it has submitted a referendum petition to the secretary of state's office as a first step toward blocking and potentially repealing the law. If the petition is approved for circulation, the ACLU would need to gather more than 100,000 signatures to block the law from taking effect on Aug. 28 and force a referendum in 2020. A similar tactic was used in 2017, when opponents of a law limiting union powers submitted enough signatures to block it from taking effect. Missouri voters overwhelmingly rejected that law in 2018. ___ AP reporter David A. Lieb in Jefferson City, Missouri, contributed to this report. Just the glow from a few candles could be enough to keep people up at night, according to research. Bright lights can slow down the body's production of melatonin, a hormone which spikes in the evening and makes us sleepy. And while sleep experts often drill home advice against using phones, computers or TV before bed, even lower levels of light could be enough to disrupt sleep. Researchers studying how different levels of light affected people found some people's tolerance may be up to 58 times higher than others'. One scientist involved in the study even admitted he keeps his home 'as dim as I can without bumping into furniture'. Researchers in Australia tested the effects of artificial light on people's sleep patterns and found some people could withstand 60 times as much light as others before it impacted their ability to doze off (stock image) Scientists at Monash University tested the effects of artificial light in the evening on a group of 55 men and women. They found a level of light too low to read in measured as 24.6 lux (lux are equal to a lumen per square metre) was enough to stunt melatonin by 50 per cent in the average person. However, some people experienced the same drop in light levels only a quarter as strong (six lux), which were equal to a few candles or half as bright as a streetlight. WHAT IS MELATONIN? Melatonin is a hormone which controls how asleep or awake people feel. The hormone is produced in the pineal gland in the brain and its release into the body is controlled by light. During the day, when the eye absorbs light, melatonin levels in the body are low and, as a result, we feel awake. But when darkness settles and the amount of light being absorbed by the eye reduces (although this is disrupted in modern societies because of artificial light), more melatonin circulates round the body. Melatonin prepares the body for sleep by slowing the heart rate, reducing blood pressure, and changing how heat is stored in the body the body's core temperature drops while the outside of the body and the limbs become warmer. The hormone also makes people feel sleepy. Melatonin supplements can be taken to aid sleep in people who have problems with it, as well as for certain medical conditions such as tinnitus or Alzheimer's disease. Sources: Medical News Today and Journal of Applied Physics Advertisement At the same time, those with a higher tolerance didn't have the 50 per cent drop in their melatonin levels unless exposed to 350 lux, about the brightness of a sunrise. 'For some people, a dim reading light might as well be daylight, and for others it might as well be darkness,' associate professor Sean Cain told the New Scientist. While people won't be able to test their own light sensitivity, Professor Cain said it would be best to 'err on the side of caution'. He added: 'I keep my lights as dim as I can without bumping into furniture.' The intensity of a light appeared to have a direct effect on how long it delayed a rise in melatonin, which would influence how much longer sleep took to come. A brightness of 10 lux, about equal to a streetlamp, could delay sleep by 22 minutes, the research found. While 30 lux, the lowest light recommended for reading, led to a 77 minute delay, and 50 lux, equal to about a 45-watt lightbulb, added 109 minutes. Professor Cain and his colleagues said how sensitive people are to light could be an underappreciated measure of how the body clock influences overall health. In the research the group of 55 people followed a strict sleep pattern for up to eight weeks and were exposed to light and measured for one night per week in a lab. The research was published in the journal PNAS. US officials have threatened to place eight people suspected to be infected with measles under travel bans, the Washington Post found. The eight people - from New York, California, Illinois, Oklahoma and Washington - were warned that if they attempted to travel, they could be put on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) federal Do Not Board List. It's a rarely-used, and potentially controversial weapon against public health threats, but the director of the CDC's Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, Dr Martin Cetron, calls it 'highly effective.' According to the Washington Post, the people in question agreed to cancel their flights, abort their travel plans and respect the Do Not Board orders. The CDC has warned eight US measles patients to cancel their flights, or face placement on a Homeland Security-enforceable 'Do Not Board List' (file) The ongoing measles outbreak in the US has managed to spread to 26 states across the US - and officials are desperately trying to keep it from getting any further. Measles was considered eradicated in the US in 2000, but, since then, anti-vaccination sentiments have surged and well over a billion people have traveled to the US from other countries. And some of them have carried measles, even introducing the disease into unvaccinated, highly vulnerable populations here. Now, Dr Cetron and his department are doing their utmost to keep infected Americans from spreading the disease any further around the country or beyond its borders. The Do Not Board List - which, importantly, is distinct from the Do Not Fly list - has primarily been used to curb tuberculosis outbreaks. In a few prior instances, it's also been applied to people with measles. The list came into existence in 2007, when a man with antibiotic-resistant tuberculosis ignored the advice of health officials, got on a plane and triggered international panic. It was used again in 2014, to stop two travelers with probable measles infections from traveling. Now, it's back and eight names could end up on the list too, if they don't heed the CDC's warning. The small, shared space, common surfaces and recirculating air give an airplane favorable conditions for disease transmission, though you're unlikely to find yourself on a flight with an infected person. If all else has failed, then the CDC works with airlines, federal and local officials to ensure that infected passengers don't fly. In the unlikely event that they don't comply, the Department of Homeland Security can be asked to intercede. A politician from hard-hit Rockland County, New York, county executive Ed Day today re-instated a state of emergency and called on President Trump to institute a requirement for all foreign visitors to carry proof of their vaccinations. To do so would likely create logistical nightmares, however, and the Do Not Board list will likely serve as a half-measure until the measles outbreaks subside. A new mobile phone app has launched offering snap-happy amateur photographers the chance to earn some extra cash by selling their personal pictures. Stockimo, owned by stock photography site Alamy, allows users to contribute photos taken on their smartphone to a library of stock images in exchange for a fee each time their pictures are published. Photos can be of anything and everything, from selfies to pets and holidays to food - and depending on how popular your picture is, you could earn hundreds of pounds. One lucky contributor even managed to snap up 2,780 from a sale - not bad for a single iPhone shot. Contributors to Stockimo could potentially make thousands by selling their photos on the app The images contributed will be sold on Alamy as well as through its distribution network and if popular, can be bought time and time again as technically the photo is licensed out, rather than sold to just one buyer. However, one of the main drawbacks of the service currently is that the system is only available to iPhone users who have an iPhone 4 or above and Stockimo has not revealed whether Android users will be able to contribute in the future. How does it work? Contributors choose a photo they want to upload and submit it via the app, tagging their photos with relevant keywords to make it easier for buyers to find photos that would work for them. Stockimo then reviews the photo and gives it a rating out of four; pictures are only accepted if their rating is above two. If photos are accepted they will go on sale right away. Users will be given limited feedback if their image hasn't been accepted but it could be for a variety of reasons. Photos will be rejected as 'inappropriate' if the content is unsuitable, illegal, or if the shot was not taken with a phone. Any photos that are deemed offensive, include nudity or are tagged incorrectly will be rejected. Images will only be eligible for purchase once they have been rated by the Stockimo team, which is made up of people from the photography industry, including buyers and sellers. Contributors have no control over where their images are sold, so once you've sent them in, you must expect to relinquish all creative control. As a bonus, anyone who signed up to Alamy before Stockimo launched will receive a special commission. How much money can I make? Stock image libraries work on the basis that publishers, companies or individuals pay a licence fee each time they download and publish an image. The price of each licence is largely dependent on the end use and how much exposure it gets. Fees range from 15 for an online use and up to 400-plus for advertising usages. The average sale price for UK contributors is currently running at 30, however, contributors will only receive 20 per cent of each sale. If a picture is sold for 30, a user will bank 6. If an image is successfully sold, users are paid at the end of each month through PayPal, however, to qualify for a payment, your pictures must have earned at least 7 or more. Although the app has only recently launched, there are already over 21,000 UK contributors with photos on sale using the app and over 30,000 from around the rest of the world. Most UK contributors have around 17 pictures on the app, although users who have successful sales average a much higher 130 photos on sale. Users can make money by sending in selfies with the average person earning 6 per sale What makes a good photo? Stockimo said that it's not always about the volume of photos on sale, it's more about having the right photo for the right customer. This means that for photographers looking to do well, they have to do a bit of research to see what is trending and popular and be a little more creative with their photography. There are some UK contributors who have only a small number of photos on sale and yet have the perfect shot that a customer needs - this means there's also an element of luck involved. As an example, within the top 50 UK earners, there are at least 10 contributors with fewer than 100 photos on sale. Photographers can add as many filters to the images as they wish and are also able to send in breaking news photos that have been taken in the past 24 hours. The photos could eventually be used for all sorts of things including calendars, adverts and magazines. Since my retirement in 2015 at the age of 65, I've been somewhat perplexed at having my state pension downgraded by 30 per week due to the fact that in 1987 I took out a self-employed pension due to a change of circumstances. I have read a reply you gave to a similar question in April 2017 to a retired civil servant, and although it goes someway to answering my concerns, my circumstances are different in respect of being self-employed as opposed to being an employee. In your reply you bring up the fact that as a contracted-out employee, NI contributions are less, therefore over the years there is a saving to the person concerned. Smaller state pension: Steve Webb, pictured right, explains how NI payments and contracting out affect payouts However, in the case of the self-employed any saving here is absolutely negated by the imposition of Class 4 contributions which I am led to believe go towards a state pension in one's future. This doesn't seem to have compensated me as I have paid thousands of pounds over the years to no avail. Even though I have a record of 50 years of NI contributions yet my pension is still reduced. I would be very interested in your views regarding my predicament as at present I feel that over the years I've done the right thing but the Department for Work and Pensions decision irks me very much. SCROLL DOWN TO FIND OUT HOW TO ASK YOUR PENSION QUESTION Steve Webb replies: As a self-employed person you were paying two types of National Insurance. Class 2 contributions were a relatively modest flat-rate weekly amount for those with profits above a minimum level. These contributions helped to build up your state pension. Class 4 contributions were a percentage tax on the profits of the self-employed but Im afraid these have never earned you pension rights. How much are Class 2 and Class 4 NI contributions? If you are self-employed, you pay Class 2 NI contributions if your profits are above a set level (6,365 in 2019-2020), and both Class 2 and Class 4 NI when your profits rise above a higher level (8,632 in 2019-2020). NI rates for previous tax years are here. Read more on Gov.uk here. Just like the National Insurance that employers pay in respect of their employees, Class 4 contributions are simply a source of government revenue and have no impact on your future state pension, no matter how much you paid. Turning now to the period in the 1980s when you took out a personal pension, it sounds as though this would have been on a contracted out basis. What this means is that your pension benefited from a top-up from the National Insurance fund. Part of the deal of contracting out is that your personal pension is set up to replace part of the state pension you might otherwise have received. You benefit at the time from the National Insurance rebate, which helps build up your personal or work pension, but are paid a reduced rate of state pension after you retire. As you may be aware, the whole complexity of contracting out was finally abolished in 2016 (and earlier than this for personal pensions) and this will eventually simplify the system for everyone. But for those with past periods of contracting out, a state pension deduction is still made, and this is regardless of the amount of Class 4 contributions that you also made. You are young, mostly free from the burden of editorial responsibility and given the chance to start a magazine as part of your final year in university. What subject do you choose? Clean eating? Instagram tips? Fortnite? All would be well-worn cliches, but what about money? Probably a more unlikely topic for a university graduate to turn their hand to, but that's exactly what Ina Swann is doing. 25-year-old University of Sheffield Journalism student Ina Emily Swann The 25-year-old final year journalism student at the University of Sheffield and six female classmates are together launching Accomplish, a digital magazine aimed at recent female graduates, as part of their degree. Ina insists that it isn't strictly a money magazine, but one offering 'help, direction and support' to its target audience. However, when carrying out market research she discovered money was 'top of the list of what people wanted to learn more about'. And her findings provide an interesting insight for those in financial authorities, businesses or media who want to increase financial education and parents and grandparents keen to engage their family in thinking and talking about money. She said: 'We carried out a survey and focus groups, and there's definitely a hunger for money advice. People responded that they're always worried about money, and mortgages, taxes and pension advice was something they knew very little about. 'Although there's some advice out there, it seems to be aimed at an older generation, not people in our situation.' Managing money is a concern as well as student debt The use of 'our' in that line is hardly surprising. After all, Ina is her own target audience, which you imagine might be quite helpful when deciding what sort of content best suits potential readers. 'I'm constantly worrying about money and the future, and it's almost always in the back of my mind', she says. There's definitely a hunger for money advice One of the major reasons for that, she says, is due to the fact she pays international student fees. Ina is originally from a town in Norway called Krager, just under three hours south of Oslo. While EU nationals pay the same tuition fees as UK students, at least for now, those from European Economic Area countries like Norway are classed as overseas students. As a result they can pay a lot more. An overseas student who starts studying journalism at Sheffield in September 2019 would pay 19,800 a year in tuition fees. In Ina's case, her student fees are paid for with a combination of grants from the Norwegian Government - which don't have to be paid back - and loans. She said: 'What's difficult for me is that unlike the UK you have to start paying down your loan almost immediately after graduating, regardless of how much you earn. It's one of the major reasons why I'm stressing about money and getting a good job.' While student debt anxiety is presumably something Accomplish will cover in detail, Ina says that during her time at Sheffield managing her maintenance loan is something she's found difficult. It's easy to get carried away and spend too much too soon 'A lot of people at university will never have had to work for money or been paid regularly before they start their studies, which can make it a lot harder to manage money responsibly. 'So, when you suddenly have all this money in your account, it's easy to forget that it's actually supposed to last for a couple of months. In situations like these, it's easy to get carried away and spend too much too soon.' Younger people don't mind talking about money It's a common cliche that British people don't like to talk about money and their troubles. Is that something she's come across while she's been at university or a trope that doesn't apply anymore? 'I know a lot of people are embarrassed to talk about money, but we feel that's more the older generation. It's similar to talking about sex, really.' By contrast, Ina says it's a topic her friends discuss 'all the time'. Often we compare our situations. We're quite open about how much we earn or how much we owe 'Often we compare our situations. We're quite open about how much we earn or how much we owe.' For her though, it goes back to what she claims is a lack of information for those starting out, rather than a lack of willingness to discuss it. As she reiterates, Accomplish, which will be available for the public to read online from the end of May as well as being a student project, was launched because she and others felt 'there was a lack of support and advice when it came to money, and we didn't really find any advice aimed at our situation.' Ina and her classmate's magazine Accomplish will be available to the public when it launches. It's not a money magazine specifically but she said money advice was the top topic asked for People want specific advice that's easy to find This raises two obvious and interlinked questions. Firstly, what's missing from mainstream money coverage? There's no doubt that finance sections do cater increasingly to the concerns and habits of younger readers; think of coverage of things like the Lifetime Isa and buy now pay later credit products. 'Millennial money' columns have proliferated in recent times, and This is Money has begun its own Money Diary series charting the financial conundrums of those under 35. Secondly, then, how does she propose to do it better, or make it more applicable for her audience? At this point she says it's a matter of approach and tone as much as content. 'Money advice out there can often be a bit dull to be honest. I think it's more about how it's covered than if it's covered.' We want to read about people and their relationship with money It's one of the reasons she chose to go down the online route. 'Our market research showed people didn't want us in print. 'They're after specific advice that is accessible through social media so that they don't have to try very hard to find it.' Social media, particularly Instagram, also allows people to move away from big blocks of text and instead focus on more interactive and, for lack of a better word, prettier content; videos, graphics, polls and podcasts. Ultimately, she says the focus on online and social content is about freshening up something which she admits is often quite drab. 'We want to read about people and their relationship with money. We want to hear their stories and be inspired by it. 'Money can be quite a tedious topic at times, so making it as relatable and inspiring as possible is key.' An elderly businessman has been sentenced to spend seven and a half years in exile in Russia for filming and selling pornography involving dozens of underage children, DailyMail.com has learned. David Lang, 65, a 'respected' business consultant and English teacher from New York, ran his sinister illegal film studio for nine years in Chelyabinsk, a town at the foot of the Urals, before he was taken into custody. The court saw graphic films and pictures showing him sexually abusing his victims, as Lang also subjected one underage teenage girl to repeated sexual abuse. Police identified more than 50 children - including many under 14 - who were victims of his abuse, a court found. He was sentenced to serve his time at a penal colony. David Lang, 65, a 'respected' business consultant and English teacher from New York, was sentenced to seven and a half years in a penal colony in Russia. He ran his sinister illegal film studio for nine years in Chelyabinsk, a town at the foot of the Urals, before he was taken into custody The court saw graphic films and photos of him sexually abusing his victims, as Lang also subjected one underage teenage girl to repeated sexual abuse Lang was friendly with US diplomats in Russia, pictured with Ambassador Alexander Vershbow and Thomas Niblock, the consul-general in Ekaterinburg. Pictured: Lang with Niblock He was found guilty of 'sexual intercourse and other acts of a sexual nature with a person who has not reached the age of 16', but no penalty was imposed due to the statute of limitations relating to the crime. Lang worked with a Russian accomplice named Ekaterina Yasina, a single mother who acted as his interpreter, who found the girls who Lang used in his films. She also did their hair and make up for photo shoots. Yasina - who hid her face in the hood of her jacket - was given a three year suspended sentence because she is the mother of an underage child. Lang was convicted in a closed-door trial and then appealed the verdict, but his plea was this week rejected. He sent child porn films on CD-discs to the U.S. by express courier and the money he earned went into his American bank account, according to officials. Lang worked with Ekaterina Yasina (pictured), a single mother who acted as his interpreter, who found the girls who Lang used in his films. She also did their hair and make up for photo shoots. Yasina - who hid her face in the hood of her jacket - was given a three year suspended sentence because she is the mother of an underage child Lang, who had previous addresses in Forest Hills, Flushing and Brooklyn, has been living and working in Russia since the early 2000s, authorities said. He also held a driving license from California The American started streaming porn via the Internet in 2014. He was dramatically detained when armed police were lowered on ropes from his apartment building's rooftop to break into his flat by smashing the windows. Lang was seen as a 'respected' English and business tutor and known to senior US diplomats in Russia. Before his arrest, Land was pictured with then-US ambassador to Russia, Alexander Vershbow, who served in Moscow from 2001 to 2005. He was also photographed with Thomas Niblock, the American consul-general in Ekaterinburg. He sent child porn films on CD-discs to the U.S. by express courier and the money he earned went into his American bank account, according to officials. Pictured: Lang's computers He was dramatically detained when armed police were lowered on ropes from his apartment building's rooftop to break into his flat by smashing the windows (pictured) It is believed Lang took part in US programs to develop democracy in Russia. Lang, who had previous addresses in Forest Hills, Flushing and Brooklyn, has been living and working in Russia since the early 2000s, authorities said. He also held a driving license from California. Lang posted child pornography online and his illegal activities went on from June 2006 to November 2015 when he was arrested, according to state investigators. Australians wishing to make money from property are being urged to avoid apartments and stay away from Sydney and Melbourne altogether. Know How Property Finance founder Bushy Martin said investors looking to buy in the next six months would be better off avoiding New South Wales and Victoria. 'I'm not into hot spots, because hot spots end up being not spots,' he told Daily Mail Australia. 'What tends to happen is everyone rushes into them for the wrong reasons.' Scroll down for video Australians wishing to make money from property are being urged to avoid apartments and stay away from Sydney (pictured) and Melbourne altogether He advised potential investors to not only avoid Sydney and Melbourne but also stay away from the provincial regional centres of Newcastle and Geelong as well as Canberra. Instead, he is advising investors looking to buy and rent out a house for the next 10 to 15 years to consider places in south-east Queensland, Perth, Adelaide and Launceston in Tasmania - where a three-bedroom house costs less than $250,000. 'That's where you're going to get the maximum capital growth,' he said. He recommended buying houses in suburbs that were more likely to gentrify, weren't surrounded by hectares of vacant land and where prices were recovering. Apartments (blocks at Wolli Creek in Sydney pictured) are also regarded as a bad investment 'What we're looking for is strong and growing incomes - people will continue to be able to pay more for property in that location,' he said. Mr Martin also explained why apartments are a bad investment. 'They just don't fly that well for capital growth,' he said. 'There's just a glut of those generally around the nation.' Brisbane and Ipswich Chermside, just 9km north of Brisbane's city centre, and Springfield Lakes near Ipswich are rated as the strongest growth prospects in south-east Queensland. Chermside, just 9km north of Brisbane's city centre, and Springfield Lakes (pictured) near Ipswich are rated as the strongest growth prospects in south-east Queensland Brisbane's median house price stands at $532,308 following a 1.8 per cent decline during the past year, CoreLogic data for April showed. For that price, it is possible to buy a three-bedroom house at Chermside. Nearby and more upmarket Hendra, which is closer to the airport, was also regarded as a good investment for its proximity to good transport links. For investors with less to spend, houses in the Ipswich council area were regarded as good prospects, with houses at Springfield Lakes, a masterplanned suburb, selling for $400,000. 'That area has potential at the lower price point,' Mr Martin said. Adelaide Rostrevor, at the foot of the Adelaide Hills, was regarded as a good investment simply because it is a middle-class area that is home to good schools. Rostrevor, at the foot of the Adelaide Hills, was regarded as a good investment simply because it is a middle-class area that is home to good schools The suburb, 10km north-east of the city, is cheaper than gentrified Norwood but affordable enough to see future price growth. 'One of the key drivers in Adelaide, more than so than other states, are the school catchment areas,' Mr Martin said. 'There are some very good schools a stone's throw from Rostrevor and people will move - both to purchase and to rent - to get their kids into the right school.' The suburb is home to Rostrevor College, a Catholic boys' school. Most houses in Rostrevor are selling for more than Adelaide's median price of $464,922, but a less flashy home can be found for that price. Median house prices in the South Australian capital have risen by 0.3 per cent during the past year. Perth Houses near the beach in Perth's western suburbs are recommended even though the Western Australian capital is in the midst of a four-year price slump. Houses near the beach in Perth's western suburbs are recommended even though the Western Australian capital is in the midst of a four-year price slump (pictured is a house at Stirling) During the past year alone, Perth's median house prices has fallen by 8.3 per cent to $463,317. Prices peaked in late 2014 following the end of the mining boom. Despite that, Mr Martin saw signs of recovery in Perth and recommended beachside suburbs from Stirling to Cottesloe. 'Rental vacancies have dropped back substantially,' he said. 'There has been some very positive movement in the resources sector generally which tends to drive the market in Perth.' Since November, iron ore prices have soared from $US60 a tonne to more than $US98, with this key commodity a major driver of the West Australian economy. Launceston While Hobart has been Australia's strongest performing housing capital city market during the past year, Mr Martin said Launceston was shaping as an even better long-term prospect. Launceston, in Tasmania's north, is regarded as a strong prospect for investors. A three-bedroom house at Mowbray (pictured), just 2km from the city centre, can be bought for less than $250,000 In the year to April, Hobart's median house price grew by 3.5 per cent to $485,540. Launceston in Tasmania's north, however, did even better with median prices rising by 6.3 per cent. There a three-bedroom house at Mowbray, just 2km from the city centre, can be bought for less than $250,000. 'I'm tending to focus on lower price points - they tend to be more accessible for more investors,' Mr Martin said. The federal, state and local governments are also pouring resources into the area as part of the Launceston City Deal, a five-year program designed to boost employment and population growth. 'Under that plan, Launceston is going to be the recipient of some very serious spending around infrastructure, through industries like education, construction, defence, transport and forestry,' Mr Martin said. The city is also home to a University of Tasmania campus on the Tamar River and Launceston General Hospital which is being upgraded. Tasmania is also attracting people from Sydney and Melbourne, who are moving there for the affordable 'tree change' lifestyle. Two teenage friends and one of their fathers were killed when their ATV went over a 100-foot embankment in Tennessee. Ronnie Akins, 47, his son Dillon Akins, 19, and Jonathan Laws, 19, were visiting Windrock Park, an off-road adventure park, when the crash happened, the Asheville Citizen-Times reported. Dillon's 13-year-old cousin who was also in the vehicle was taken to a Knoxville hospital in serious condition after the crash in Oliver Springs on Sunday after 1 pm. Jonathan Laws (left) and Dillon Akins, (right), both 19, were killed when their ATV went over a 100-foot embankment in a Tennessee adventure park The men men were originally from Weaverville, North Carolina, just north of Asheville. Campbell County Sheriff's office says the ATV left a trail and fell more than 100 feet to the embankment. Rescuers had to cut through thick brush and trees to reach the crash site in the park, which offers riding trails. Dillon and Jonathan were both friends and students at East Tennessee State University. Dillon's father Ronnie Akins, (left), was killed in the accident on Sunday. A Facebook picture shows the two of them together in February They had also been basketball players at North Buncombe High School, which confirmed the deaths and offered its condolences in a Facebook post. The school said: 'The Blackhawks suffered a tragic loss tonight. Our hearts are saddened as we mourn the loss of Johnny, Dillon and Dillon's father. Johnny and Dillon were two fine young men. 'Our hearts and prayers are with their families. Please remember the families in prayer.' Jonathan Laws and Dillon akin (pictured together left), were friends and students at East Tennessee State University. They were previously basketball players at North Buncombe High School Windrock Park is set upon 73,000 acres and is the largest privately owned riding area in the United States, according to its website. It has an address at Oliver Springs. North Buncombe basketball coach Chuck Robinson told WLOS: 'This is such a great loss to our community.' Dillon Akins posted this image of all-terrain vehicles on his Facebook page last year He said Dillon and Jonathan tried out for the basketball team in their senior year and turned out to be key players. He added: 'When I found out last night, my heart just broke for both families. This is the first time I've lost players. 'Both really hard workers, give it their all, yes sir no sir; a coach's dream. Until they graduated last year, they went to East Tennessee University where they were roommates. Robinson said the two were inseparable and were always together at school. He added: 'I know this community is strong, that they'll wrap their arms around both families and rally them, and get behind them, and do anything they can for them.' An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is defined as a motorized off-highway vehicle designed to travel on four low-pressure or non-pneumatic tires. It has a seat designed to be straddled by the operator and handlebars for steering control. High-profile brain surgeon Charlie Teo has defended charging brain cancer patients up to $120,000 for potentially life-saving operations High-profile surgeon Charlie Teo has defended charging brain cancer patients over $100,000 for his services. Dr Teo, a Sydney-based neurosurgeon, has made a name for himself over the last decade by taking on inoperable cases and offering brain cancer patients a second chance at life. But his reputation came under fire when a colleague slammed the 'disturbing' amount of online fundraisers run by patients unable to afford his expertise. Professor Henry Woo, a urologist at the University of Sydney School of Medicine, criticised the trend after a campaign was launched for a cancer-stricken girl. 'Something is seriously wrong if a terminally ill girl with a brain tumour has to raise $120K to have surgery Dr Charlie Teo has offered to do for $60-80K,' Woo tweeted. 'If it was valid surgery, it could/should be performed in the public system under Medicare.' Sydney-based urologist Dr Henry Woo (left) railed against the notion of patients having to crowdfund their own healthcare, pointing to a girl who raised $150,000 to have surgery with Dr Teo (right) The family of Amelia 'Millie' Lucas (left), from Perth, raised over $150,000 online so they could afford Dr Teo's surgery for a malignant brain tumour. Her sister Tess, 15, (right) also has the same brain tumour condition but has since been given the all-clear Professor Woo was referencing the case of Perth girl Amelia 'Millie' Lucas, 12, who made headlines last week after Dr Teo said he would perform open brain surgery that could save her life. Her family turned to GoFundMe and were able to raise more than $150,000 for the potentially life-saving surgery in 11 days, exceeding the $100,000 target they had set. Professor Woo said he found it difficult to reconcile Dr Teo's mantra of 'treating patients like your own family but leaving them financially destitute'. Dr Teo hit back on Tuesday, acknowledging Professor Woo had brought up an 'important issue'. Professor Woo criticised Dr Teo after a 12-year-old terminally ill girl was forced to raise $100,000 for her own brain operation Despite undergoing a series of treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy, Millie's brain tumour has doubled in size within four months 'The difference between public and private (and the) cost of medicine needs to be discussed,' he told the ABC. WHO IS CHARLIE TEO? Charlie Teo is a Sydney-based neurosurgeon and director of the Centre for Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery at Prince of Wales Hospital in Randwick. The doctor has garnered international media attention for his reputation to take on 'inoperable' or high-risk cases. Dr Charlie Teo Teo has been praised for his practices but has also been the subject of criticism for his 'controversial methods' and for offering patients 'false hope.' Among his notable patients is Australian pianist Aaron McMillan, 30, who was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor in 2001. Dr Teo successfully removed the tumour, but it unfortunately returned two years later and led to McMillan's death in 2007. Teo also treated 2UE radio broadcaster Stan Zemanek during his battle with glioblastoma in 2006. Teo spent ten years working in the US after claiming he was unable to secure work due to his 'bad name in Australia.' The surgeon has defended his methods saying he is willing to extend patients' lives if they are not ready to give into their illness. Advertisement 'But what you have to remember that of that $120,000 (charged for surgery) most people think it all goes to me, and that's not the case at all.' He went on to explain that a large portion of the surgery fee would go directly to the private hospital, while the remainder would be split between the various experts involved in the operation. 'For example, in the last bill of $120,000, I got $8,000,' he explained. 'It's not even a significant amount for me.' Professor Woo's tweets sparked discussion on the ethics of charging patients excessive fees for healthcare as well as the issue of public versus private institutions. 'The best surgeons practice in the public sector where their decisions are peer reviewed. It's always possible 2 operate - the question becomes - is it safe and sensible. Our public sector gives great care if you have a serious illness. No doctor's afternoon is worth $60K,' one person tweeted. Professor Woo, however, responded that adequate medical care exists in both sectors - but patients should be better informed on the fees. Dr Teo has spoken of his motivation to perform the risky procedures in the past stating he is willing to help give people more time to live rather than condemning them to a death sentence. In 2001, he successfully removed a brain tumour from pianist Aaron McMillan, who had been diagnosed with hemangiopericytoma. McMillan's tumor unfortunately returned two years later and he died in 2007. Publicly-funded cancer treatment had been a topic of debate during the federal election. Labor leader Bill Shorten promised to cut out of pocket costs owed by cancer patients. Dr Teo was not available for comment when contacted by Daily Mail Australia. Three types of flu are striking Australia at the same time and affecting tens of thousands, according to an exert. Professor Robert Booy of the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance said three strains of the virus are 'kicking in all at the same time.' This may help explain why 60,000 people have been struck down and almost 100 have died from flu since January - before winter has even begun. Three types of flu are striking Australia at the same time and affecting thousands, according to an exert (stock image) Professor Booy urged people to get the flu shot and also said older Australians should have a pneumonia vaccine. He said the bacteria that causes the disease is a 'sleeping dragon' waiting to be awoken. 'The pneumococcus could be described as a sleeping dragon and a ferocious one at that because once it is woken up and causes pneumonia it can be very severe,' Professor Booy told The Courier-Mail. 'Those hospitalised for pneumonia are at real risk of death and especially if over 65.' The three strains of flu hitting Australia are the Influenza A (H1N1) strain which affects children the worst; the Influenza A H3 strain which particularly hits the elderly; and the Influenza B strain, said Professor Boy. 'It's a big surprise to have so much flu, so early in the year. In living memory, we haven't recalled that happening,' he told 7News. Meanwhile, an early start to the cold and flu season has taken a heavy toll on blood donations, with the Red Cross issuing an urgent appeal for help from healthy Aussies. Professor Robert Booy of the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance said three strains of the virus are 'kicking in all at the same time' (stock image) The Red Cross Blood Service needs 5,900 additional people to give blood over the next fortnight, with up to 1,400 donors cancelling their appointments each day due to illness. The Red Cross says it urgently needs help, particularly donors with O and A type blood. 'We haven't seen cancellations this high since March 2017, and as the number of people suffering cold and flu symptoms increases, it limits the number of regular donors who are able to give,' blood service spokeswoman Helen Walsh says. 'We need people who are fully recovered from colds or the flu, and those who have avoided it, to take the place of those who are unable to answer our call.' People can still donate blood if they've had the flu shot. Donors who have had colds or the flu can give blood again seven days after they have recovered. A vile father-of-nine and teacher sexually abused 11 girls including family members and students but was talked out of raping his adopted daughter after she pleaded 'I am just a little girl'. The church pastor from Far North Queensland targeted the children in the classroom and during individual lessons. For every time the adopted daughter's genitalia was squeezed, she would be paid $5, The Cairns Post reported. The young girls would also be bribed with lollies and money in exchange for sexual favours. A father-of-nine, found guilty of sexually abusing 11 schoolgirls, was begged by his adopted daughter to stop raping her(stock image) Cairns District Court heard the predator molested his adopted daughter, 14, who was able to convince him not to rape her by saying: 'I am just a little girl.' The 59-year-old was jailed for just nine years but could walk free in three after pleading guilty to 23 charges including 17 counts of indecent treatment of a child under 16, and six counts of maintaining an unlawful relationship with a child. He abused his victims between 2008 and 2016, over periods as long as four years. One victim was sexually abused every day at school since she was in Year 1. He would show the girls, aged 12 and under, pornography before touching their private parts. Court statements written by the school of the victims read one student had starting taking drugs after being molested, while others said their school experiences were ruined. Judge Morzone said the 59-year-old's indecent treatment of his adopted daughter was the most grave of all 23 charges he pleaded guilty to. 'She would tell you to stop but you just laughed,' he said. Mr Morzone described the nine-year sentence, with parole eligibility after one third served, as 'just in all the circumstances'. Shocked dog owners have revealed that a stranger who attacked their pets in a park told them the animals 'fell onto his knife'. The dogs, Kujo and Bundy, were stabbed just before 2pm on Sunday after walking off leash at Fowler Reserve in the suburb of Wallacia in Sydney's west. Police said the dogs had walked down an embankment before returning to their owners with 'visible wounds'. One of Kujo's owners said the man told them 'they [the dogs] fell onto my knife' after he was confronted. Kujo and Bundy (pictured after Kujo's fourth surgery) were stabbed just before 2pm on Sunday after walking off leash at Fowler Reserve, in Sydney's west 'He showed no remorse and was proud of his actions,' the dog's owner wrote on Facebook. He said the stab wounds were an 'intent to kill'. 'This attack was unprovoked and anyone who knows our boys would know that they wouldn't hurt a fly,' he said. The Kelpie/Bull Arab mix and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are in a serious condition. Kujo has had four surgeries as of Monday night and is in a critical condition. Bundy, who needed a blood donor, looks like he will pull through. Police are looking for the man who allegedly attacked the dogs and was briefly confronted before the two couples rushed their dogs to the vet. He is described as being in his 40s, white, bald and with a ginger beard. He was wearing a flannelette shirt at the time of the attack. Kujo's other owner has thanked the community for their outpouring of support since the two dogs were attacked. 'We are so blessed to have such wonderful friends and an amazing network of complete strangers willing to help us through an awful time,' she said. A Go Fund Me page has been set up to help the two couples deal with their dog's medical bills. Sully, the beloved service dog of former President George H.W. Bush, 'paid tribute' to his old owner and fallen veterans on Memorial Day. The loyal pup who served alongside Bush for six months before his death in November 2018, visited the National World War II Memorial in Washington D.C. on Monday. Sully posed next to a stone dedicated to the late president, who served in World War II as a Navy pilot, in a sweet photo shared on his Instagram page. 'Each of the patriots whom we remember on this day was first a beloved son or daughter, a brother or sister, or a spouse, friend, and neighbor - George H.W. Bush,' the photo caption said. George H.W. Bush's service dog Sully paid a touching tribute to him by visiting the WWII Memorial in Washington D.C. on Monday. This picture of Sully posing next to a stone dedicated to the late president who served in the war as a Navy pilot was posted on his Instagram page 'Always thinking of my best friend & the bravest military in the world who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending our country for our freedoms,' Sully's Instagram caption said The loyal pup alongside Bush for six months before his death in November 2018 Sully pictured in front of George H.W. Bush's casket as he lied in stated at the U.S. Capitol on December 4, 2018 'Always thinking of my best friend & the bravest military in the world who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending our country for our freedoms,' it added. Stopping at the monument had special meaning for Sully, whose former master George H.W. Bush enlisted in the Navy during WWII in 1942 as a Navy pilot and by 1944 had flown 58 combat missions. Following Bushs death, Sully the Labrador retriever went on to provide therapy for military patients. On February 27, 2019 Sully joined the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centers Facility Dog Program to help wounded veterans. His swearing in ceremony was livestreamed and showed the moment Sully offered his paw as he pledged an oath to 'support, comfort and cheer' on veterans and their families. For the job he received a new 'military uniform' a cameo vest as proof of his enrollment and which he wears on a daily basis. Sully pictured above with hero pilot Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger, who safely landed a US Airways flight on the Hudson river, and who the retriever was named after Sully now works with other rehabilitation dogs helping veterans at Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. Pictured above in uniform with Jenna Bush Hager Sully was an important part of the Bush family, joining in June 2018 shortly after the death of Barbara Bush. The pup was named after hero pilot Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger, who safely landed a US Airways flight on the Hudson river. The two-year-old retriever captured the nation's hearts when he was pictured laying in front of Bushs flag-draped casket at his funeral last year. During his service, Sully spent his days at Bushs side, even going to the voting booth with his in 2018. Sully did more than just provide furry company, hes also able to complete a number of tasks including answering phones, opening doors, and turning lights on and off. But they were from SpaceX Starlink satellites launched by Elon Musk last week Theories ranged from a secret RAAF fighter jet operation to an alien spacecraft Lights were seen in Cairns, Townsville and Cape York in Far North Queensland Mysterious flashing lights spotted in Australian skies which left some wondering if they had seen a ufo have now been identified. Residents across Far North Queensland reported seeing the lights, described as looking like a 'train in the sky', on Friday and Saturday night, sparking wild theories about the source ranging from alien spacecraft to secret fighter jets. Now it appears the lights came from tech billionaire Elon Musk's 60 SpaceX Starlink satellites, which were launched last week. RResidents across Far North Queensland reported seeing the lights (pictured), described as looking like a 'train in the sky', on Friday and Saturday night Monash University School of Physics and Astronomy Associate Professor Michael Brown said this won't be the last time Queensland residents will see them. 'There should be a few more opportunities to see them with the naked eye from Cairns in the coming days,' Professor Brown told Cairns Post. 'Cairns is lucky in that regard it looks like there will be a few other passes.' The best times for Cairns residents to catch a glimpse of the satellites are from 5.59am on Thursday, 5.18am on Friday and 4.37am on Saturday. The lights are most likely from one of Musk's 60 SpaceX Starlink satellites which launched into orbit last week The SpaceX program is an ambitious internet-from-space initiative which is designed to provide internet access to people from outer space SpaceX launched the small satellites on Thursday where they will ascend 550km above Earth. The company plans to conduct six more launches this year with a target of 720 satellites in orbit by 2020 The SpaceX Starlink program is an ambitious internet-from-space initiative which is designed to provide broadband internet access from a low Earth orbit. SpaceX launched the small satellites on Thursday, and they will eventually enter orbit at a height of 550km. The company plans to conduct six more launches this year, and hopes to have 720 satellites in orbit by 2020, with a final goal of 12,000 all over the globe. A council is set to be the first in Australia to launch a revolutionary new way of monitoring how much rubbish its residents are throwing out. Bassendean councillors, in Perth, will meet on Tuesday evening to discuss the new recording system, which could start as early as July - but not everyone has welcomed the trial. Liberal Democrats MLC Aaron Stonehouse told The West Australian that he believes monitoring the contents of people's rubbish bin is an invasion of privacy. A Perth council is set to be the first in Australia to trail a revolutionary new way of monitoring how much rubbish its residents are throwing out (stock) 'The last thing residents want is council workers having a video feed of every article they discard,' Mr Stonehouse said. The politician said while the idea might be noble in regards to improving sustainable waste management, it didn't consider the resident's right to privacy. But according to Curtin University environment lecturer Atiq Zaman, the trial isn't designed to blame residents and would be implemented using an opt-in system. 'If they're [residents] not willing to participate in the program it can't be forced,' Mr Zaman said. 'My understanding is people would be willing to participate.' The program is collaboration effort between the Town of Bassendean, Curtin University, Suez and several IT companies. According to the proposal, anyone who decides to participate would have a tag fitted to their bin that is scanned when its rubbish collected by a garbage truck. As the truck empties the bin, the contents would be weighed and captured via a camera, with the information being relayed back to the corresponding household As the truck empties the bin, the contents would be weighed and captured via a camera, with the information being relayed back to the corresponding household. Mr Zaman said the follow-up information would be generated and provided backed to households from city councils. 'Whether that's weekly or monthly depends on how we design the program,' he said. He added, there would be further discussions regarding bin protection and privacy ahead of the trial starting - if the project is given the green light. Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Bassendean council and Mr Stonehouse for comment. An Australian professor used mathematics to crack a 37-year cold case and help put a killer behind bars in the UK. Professor David Balding used a specialised system of maths to determine down to one-in-a-billion probability who killed two 17-year-old girls in Scotland in 1977. Christine Eadie and Helen Scott left the World's End pub in Edinburgh, only to never be seen alive again. Christine's body was found dumped just outside the Scottish capital on Gosford Bay's sand dunes, while Helen's was found in a cornfield. Professor David Balding used a specialised system of math to determine down to one-in-a-billion probability who killed two 17-year-old girls in Scotland in 1977 Local police underwent a monumental manhunt, and news of the murders quickly spread internationally. But it was 30 years before anyone was charged over the slayings of the teenage friends. Forensic teams found small, damaged strands of DNA from the clothing that was used to bind the girls' wrists. Initial investigations led police to Angus Sinclair, but due to unconvincing DNA evidence he wasn't convicted of the murders This lead them to the genetic code of Angus Sinclair, who was already behind bars - convicted of the murder of 17-year-old Mary Gallacher and seven-year-old Catherine Reehill. His murder trial for Helen and Christine began in 2007, but DNA technology still wasn't as advanced and due to a lack of witnesses, the case was circumstantial. Tests said the DNA was most likely Sinclair's but scientists weren't one hundred per cent sure. He wasn't convicted as with inconclusive DNA the prosecution did not have enough evidence. Professor David Balding (pictured) specialises in DNA work known as mathematical computational genetics, which involves writing mathematical models instead of extracting the DNA in a lab Professor David Balding worked with London Metropolitan Police's forensics team as a scientist. 'DNA, it's now black and white. But it wasn't early on,' Professor David Balding told The Age. Prof Balding began his search to find more convincing evidence tying Sinclair to the crimes. Prof Balding specialises in mathematical computational genetics, which involves writing mathematical models instead of extracting DNA in a lab. This process helped translate lab work into 'real-world' answers, and then allowed him to use maths to see how strong the evidence against Sinclair was. Despite Prof Balding's expertise, he had his work cut out for him as the DNA had badly degraded over the almost 40 years it had been in storage. The long strands of DNA had broken down into little sections - similar to that of a rope that's frayed over time. Another hurdle for the professor was that each sample contained DNA from four people - with three billion bits of DNA in each person. In 2014, Prof Balding gave evidence in court that lead to the conviction of Sinclair (pictured) 37 years after the murders Both the girls, as well as Sinclair and his brother-in-law - who was accused of murdering the girls - had parts of their DNA in the sample. Likely degradation of the DNA, contamination and experimental noise were all factors in Prof Balding's mathematical model. It was through his calculations that he was able to determine Sinclair was in fact the killer, with one in a billion certainty. The 'overwhelming' outcome meant there was little to no chance it wasn't Sinclair's DNA on the clothing. Prof Balding gave evidence in court in 2014 under forensic cross examination, and his results held up. This evidence was instrumental in leading to Sinclair's 2014 conviction for the murders of Helen and Christine, and he was sentenced to 37 years' jail. A home where a mother was brutally bludgeoned to death by her husband and then buried in the backyard has been sold. The body of Fahima Yusuf, 32, was found buried in a shallow grave in the backyard of the Perth property in 2017. It was later discovered that her accountant husband Ahmed Dawood Seedat, 37, had killed her while their children slept. However, despite the grisly history, one buyer was willing to pay $610,000 for the property. Ahmed Dawood Seedat (left) made 'disturbing' online searches including how to bury a person alive before he murdered his wife Fahima Yusuf (right) Selling agents were legally obliged to tell prospective buyers about the history of the home, Jared Rayner, from Pulse Property, said The four bedroom, two bathroom home was auctioned off in December 2018. And while some buyers had been 'put off' by its past, others saw potential, Jared Rayner, from Pulse Property, previously told Daily Mail Australia. 'Under the term, we do have to display the contract, which we have done during the campaign, and obviously that does disclose the material facts,' he said. 'But every buyer that has come through I've told them straight-out. I mean, it's common knowledge.' The property was marketed as a 'family home', boasting a large theatre room, 'perfect to watch the big game or a Hollywood blockbuster'. The property was sold for $865,000 in 2014, however, a reserve price was not set this time around, Mr Rayner said. The agent selling the four-bedroom home (kitchen pictured) in Perth's south said some buyers were 'put off' by the property's grisly past Seedat buried his wife in their backyard. Piles of soil (pictured) were dug up in the backyard of the home as part of the extensive police investigation Seedat pleaded guilty to murdering his wife and was sentenced to at least 23 years behind bars last month. During sentencing, the court heard how Seedat had struck his wife of eight years with a wheel brace as she slept inside the home. Ms Yusuf had woken up after the first blow but he overpowered her and continued his attack. Seedat then choked or suffocated Ms Yusuf and buried her in a hole that had been made by a contractor who was told it was to install a pool for his children, aged two and five. Her final words were: 'I love you'. Ms Yusuf's body was found in a shallow grave in their backyard four days after her murder The court heard how Seedat had planned the murder of Ms Yusuf, originally from Bolton in the UK, for weeks. He had earlier searched online for chilling terms such as 'cremating a body', 'best place to knock someone out' and burying someone alive. Seedat had intended to try to pursue a relationship with his sister-in-law, who he described as his best friend, but she viewed him as a brother. Seedat had also searched online: 'Can you marry your brother-in-law if your sister is dead muslim?' Seedat is separately facing fraud charges, with allegations he stole $5.7 million. Ms Yusuf (pictured left) and Seedat (pictured right) lived in the Perth suburb of Carlisle with their two children aged two and five A search is underway for a librarian who disappeared after leaving for work on Monday morning. Bruce Stewart, 44, said goodbye to his wife Melissa then left his Ryde home in his blue Holden Astra sedan at about 7.30am. But the father of two never made it to work at his high school in Sydney's western suburbs. Bruce Stewart, 44, said goodbye to his loving wife Melissa (pictured together) then left his Ryde home in his blue Holden Astra sedan at around 7.30am Mrs Stewart said he contacted friends but did not answer her calls. 'He made brief contact with some close friends before not responding to any calls or messages, which is very, very unlike him,' she told the Sydney Morning Herald. 'We are distraught. He is our world, a devoted father and husband, adored by all who know him, and we are desperate to find him.' Police said his family are concerned for his welfare 'due to his current mental state'. Mr Stewart is about 185cm tall with short light-coloured hair and a cropped beard with flecks of grey. His car has faded blue paint with NSW registration CA29HZ. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crimstoppers. A reveller has 'taken his own life' after getting separated from his family at Radio 1's Big Weekend music festival. Isaac Powner, 23, died on Saturday night following an incident on the A174, shortly after he became separated from his relatives at the Middlesbrough-based festival. Mr Powner was at the festival with relatives and was due to meet his cousin James at the end of the night near the site exits at Stewart Park. His last contact with his family was via a message to their WhatsApp group at 9.27pm and he was found dead minutes later on the dual carriageway, around a mile away from the festival site. His stepsister Gemma Braithwaite, 33, who was not at the festival, said the family was in shock at his death because he 'had a great time' at the event. Isaac Powner (pictured with girlfriend Bethany Golden) became separated from his relatives at the Middlesbrough-based festival. He had been due to go back on Sunday with Bethany Mr Powner had been supposed to meet his cousin at the end of the first day of the festival in Middlesbrough. Pictured are the 1975 performing She said: 'He had been at the festival with his family and was absolutely fine, he had been dancing around and having a great time. 'They got separated and were trying to link back up with each other. 'At 7.20pm he sent a message saying he was waiting by the waltzers. His cousin James, who was like a brother to him, went to look for him but couldn't see him. 'Then there was no communication until the message [at 9.27pm].' Gemma Braithwaite said stepbrother Isaac Powner (both pictured) sent a message to a family WhatsApp group on Saturday night It is understood Isaac took his own life but an inquest will be opened into his death. Mr Powner lived with his mother Suzie Henderson-Thynne in Linthorpe, Middlesbrough. He had previously spent time living in Benidorm with father Paul and stepmother Janet, working at his father's bar in the Spanish town. Mr Powner has one older sister, Robyn, 27, through his parents and two stepsisters - Ms Braithwaite and Chantelle Ward, 30. He had been due to go back to the festival on the Sunday with his girlfriend Bethany Golden. The couple, who had been together for over a year, had also just booked a holiday together in 2020. Ms Braithwaite said Isaac had been excited to watch Miley Cyrus headline the festival that night, as he was a big fan. Police are now examining CCTV to track Isaac's movements that night. Paul Powner has since flown back to Teesside from Spain following the news to identify his son's body. Ms Braithwaite said the family is struggling to come to terms with their loss but added they are 'close-knit' and are all supporting each other. Paying tribute to her stepbrother, she said: 'Isaac was the most beautiful man with everything to live for'. 'He was so funny, so happy, outgoing, popular and with so many friends,' she said. Mr Powner was found dead on the A174 near the festival site at Stewart Park, Middlesbrough, which is about a mile away from the road It is thought Isaac took his own life but an inquest will be opened into his death. His father Paul (pictured with Isaac) flew back to Teesside following the devastating news and had to identify his son's body Mr Powner, pictured with his cousins Hannah Hardman, Charlotte Hardman and James Hardman 'Everyone says it but Isaac really was the life and soul of the party. I don't think he realised just how popular he was.' Isaac was also a huge Middlesbrough fan and as a youngster he was invited to be a mascot and is pictured beaming with the players. Ms Braithwaite added: 'He went to every single Boro game, he would spend his last penny on them. He lit up our lives. He always had a smile and was always making others smile. 'He was one of the most genuine, nicest people you could ever meet with an absolute heart of gold. 'We are all completely heartbroken by this and it shows you just never know what's going on behind those smiles.' She urged people to look out for signs of mental health issues in their loved ones, particularly young men. All the family is struggling to come to terms with Isaac's (pictured with his mother Suzie Henderson-Thynne and his sister Robyn Powner) death but Ms Braithwaite said they are close-knit and are all supporting each other 'We need to break the taboo of 'men are strong' and 'don't cry' to help save their lives,' she said. 'Please stop telling young males to 'man up' and 'stop being a wimp'. 'It really is OK not to be OK. Some people are fighting a battle even the closest to them don't see.' A spokesman for the BBC said: 'We are shocked and saddened to hear the news and our thoughts go out to his family and friends at this difficult time.' A fundraising page has been set up to help pay for Isaac's funeral. Alan Jones has launched a scathing attack on ABC's Media Watch claiming the program failed to air his full statement during its 'hatchet job' on him. The 2GB presenter took to the airwaves on Tuesday morning accusing the show of 'doctoring' its story in order to 'build the conventional Media Watch hatred towards Alan Jones.' Jones also questioned why the taxpayer-funded 15-minute television program, which runs just once a week, has nine staff members listed on its website. The Australian media watchdog included a segment highlighting Jones's support for Clive Palmer after he previously criticised the businessman for his treatment of his Queensland Nickel workers. Scroll down for video 2GB host Alan Jones has blasted ABC's Media Watch for failing to include his full statement during what he called a 'hatchet job' on him last night In the lead up to the federal election, Jones interviewed Palmer multiple times on his show, during which the United Australia Party leader criticised Labor leader Bill Shorten. Host Paul Barry insinuated Jones's sudden change of heart and decision to interview Palmer had been motivated by the politician's preference for the Liberal Party. When the program asked why he had taken a different approach, Barry told viewers Jones had told Media Watch to 'mind your own business.' He also added Jones said his interviewing of him had nothing to do with political preferences, before referring viewers to the statement on the show's website. But Jones revealed his full, more detailed response to the program, on his show on Tuesday morning. Reading his email aloud, Jones acknowledged he had his issues with Palmer, but added that the politician's views were aligned with many in the electorate. 'Unlike MediaWatch, I don't believe people are wholly bad or wholly wrong,' he wrote. '[Y]ou can check with Mr Palmer and anyone else. My interviewing of him had nothing to do with preferences, though he made it quite plain that his whole role in this advertising campaign was to prevent Mr Shorten from forming government,' Jones added. The Australian media watchdog included a segment highlighting Jones's support for Clive Palmer after he previously criticised the businessman for his treatment of his Queensland Nickel workers During the broadcast, Jones slammed the show, which focuses on critiquing media outlets based on journalism ethics, for having its own 'bias' and calling on the network to dismiss 'the grub in charge.' 'So the program was designed to deliberately to damage me - that doesn't bother me - make me look hypocrite because I critcised Clive Palmer, last year and the year before, and then I interviewed him,' he said. 'This is what gets the ABC into trouble because none of that is revealed to the audience who is watching Media Watch, who is media-watching Media Watch, in their distortion of the truth and their abuse of journalism.' Jones acknowledged his statement was posted on the show's website, but claimed it was 'buried' at the bottom. In a statement to Daily Mail Australia, a Media Watch spokesperson said Barry's broadcast was an 'accurate summary' of Jones's response. The network said 'it responds directly to the charges we make, and it's in keeping with the way the program gives voice to respondents in the limited time available. 'His full statement was published, as usual, on our website, which Paul Barry referenced on air TWICE during the program'. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Alan Jones for comment. Dannie Lea (pictured) was murdered in the Bahamas and his killer is still at large A British man has been murdered in the Bahamas, becoming the country's 34th homicide victim this year. Police are hunting for the killer after 29-year-old Dannie Lea's body was found on a lawn in the capital of Nassau Sunday. Mr Lea, from Stoke-on-Trent, had been beaten over the head when officers found him lying unreponsive in a front yard in Eastern New Providence at about 5pm. The father-of-one was pictured on Bahamas Press. The personal trainer's former lover, who wished to remain anonymous, contacted MailOnline to say that a 'horrendous' image had circulated in the country's press showing his dead body. 'He was a kind and gentle-natured man with a young son and large family,' she added. 'The Bahamianpress online paper has disclosed various statements including that the killer was on the run.' Officers from the Royal Bahamas Police Force confirmed they attended a property in the city after a body was discovered in a front yard. Mr Lea (pictured) was beaten over the head and found dead on Sunday at about 5pm in the Bahamas The personal trainer's lifeless body turned up on a yard in Nassau after somebody beat him to death on Sunday Mr Lea was pronounced dead at the scene and police say a post-mortem is scheduled to determine the cause of death. No arrests have been made and officers are continuing the investigate the death. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office are supporting Mr Lea's family. A spokesman told StokeonTrentLive: 'Our staff are supporting the family of a British man following his death in The Bahamas, and are in contact with the Bahamian authorities. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.' The personal trainer (pictured) is thought to be the nation's 34th homicide victim this year Staffordshire Police's Detective Chief Inspector Dan Ison said: 'We have not received any direct contact from The Bahamas state, however there may be a delay due to the initial investigative response. 'Staffordshire Police will liaise with HM Coroner for North Staffordshire to ensure if we need to provide support to a local bereaved family, then we are able to and provide the necessary links through our Foreign and Commonwealth Office.' A desperate search is underway for an experienced male hiker who disappeared in a Maui forest seven days ago - just a few days after a since-rescued female tourist also went missing on a hike. Hawaiian man Noah 'Kekai' Mina, 35, was reported missing on Monday May 21. His family say he went into the Kapilau Ridge Trail, also known as Saint Anthony Cross, in the Iao Valley to 'seek clarity' in nature around 8am. But after he failed to emerge from the forest after a couple days, alarm was raised. Searchers who helped find hiker Amanda Eller, a yoga instructor went missing in the Maui wilderness for 17 days until she was miraculously found on Sunday, are aiding in the search for Mina. His father says that Mina hikes there regularly and is familiar with the area. He fears Mina, an experienced outdoorsman, could have gotten hurt or fallen. A search has been launched for missing Hawaiian man Noah 'Kekai' Mina, 35, who disappeared on Monday May 21 around 8am while hiking in the Iao Valley of the West Maui Forest Reserve His father says he turned to the valley to 'seek clarity' and for a 'safe haven', but fears he may have gotten hurt as he failed to emerge from the forest and is experienced with the area 'Let me be clear, yes he is seeking clarity, and he has turned to nature to find that safe haven,' his father Vincent Mina said in a statement to Maui News. 'To exhibit such courage in hiking to such heights alone, over this period of time, is nothing short of amazing. We look for him to return to us and share this sojourn into the depths of his beautiful soul and spirit,' he added. A ground and air search was launched earlier this week. County rescuers have found Mina's slippers and possibly footprint, but the trail has since gone cold. The police search for Mina ended on Saturday, but the family is continuing the search party on their own, paying for private infrared helicopters to scope out the jungle for a sign of him. Lt. Gregg Okamoto said there were no updates in Mina's case as of Saturday evening. His family say he went into the Kapilau Ridge Trail (highlighted in red), also known as Saint Anthony Cross, in the Iao Valley to 'seek clarity' in nature around 8am when he disappeared Pictures of search teams at the scene of the forest above The police search for Mina ended on Saturday, but the family is continuing the search party on their own, paying for private infrared helicopters to scope out the jungle for a sign of Mina On Friday his family launched a GoFundMe page entitled 'Bring Kekai Home', seeking to raise $100,000 to continue the search for him. 'It has been over the 72 hours and the research now is between our hands,' the GoFundMe page said. 'There has been new tracks found by the ridges and we are convinced that our loving Kane is out there needing the assistance to come back.' 'Helicopters going out for the search at this point we are looking at $1200/hour.We need more funds for the search in order to have the mission going,' another update in the page said. The page describes Mina as the son of Vincent and Irene Mina, brother of Kahanulani and boyfriend of Annina Wild. A police search for Mina ended on Saturday, leading the family to launch own and set up a GoFundMe page to fund helicopter searches So far the GoFundMe page has raised $44,571 of their $100,000 goal Vincent Mina described his son as a gentle, loving humble soul with a strong Hawaiian heart and will. 'We ask that you reserve any judgments and only offer the love and respect he deserves on taking a path less traveled many of those out there would never consider taking,' he said. 'We ask that you cover him with a blanket of Angels on this night and bring him back to us safely.' Mina is described as 5 feet 8 inches tall, 180 pounds, with shaved black hair and brown eyes. Two members of the search party are the same rescuers who spotted Amanda Eller from a chopper on Sunday afternoon, bringing her to safety 'I'm meeting with the Noah Mina family to put together a team to go search for him. Circumstances are different, but we're moving on to the next mission because he's a member of our community,' Javier Cantellops, one of Eller's rescuers, said in Saturday press conference for Eller. 35-year-old Amanda Eller was miraculously rescued from the Maui forest on Sunday after she was lost in the wilderness for 17 days. She's pictured in hospital with her boyfriend Benjamin Konkol after her rescue. She was found suffering from severe sunburn, a broken leg after falling off a cliff and wounds to her feet after losing her shoes Eller (pictured with her rescuers Javier Cantellops, Chris Berquist and Troy Helmers) had been missing in the forest for 17 days before she was found. Cantellops and Berquist are now assisting in the search for Mina. Cantellops updated followers on the search on Facebook on Sunday, explaining that the terrain in the area is dangerous and won't include volunteers. 'My team consisting of Chris Berquist, Elena Pray and myself are about to do a preliminary flight of the immediate area that Noah is missing in. We are going to get a lay of the land and investigate a LZ [landing zone]. 'This situation is extremely dangerous and different than Amandas search. Volunteers will not be used in the search. We will be putting together a specialized team of pros that will be going into the area. Unfortunately weather is a huge factor in this search as well as the extremely dangerous terrain. Areas where the path is 2'wide straight to a 1800' drop,' he added. A sister of murdered journalist Lyra McKee has vowed to 'support' her killers if they hand themselves in to police. Nichola Corner said failure was not an option as she urged justice for her family and praised those who have given evidence to police. Ms McKee, 29, was shot in the head by dissident republican group the New IRA while observing clashes with police in the Creggan estate in Londonderry last month. Ms Corner said she would come to any police station to meet whoever admitted to shooting the talented journalist dead and help them through the experience - saying she was speaking in Lyra's name. Nichola Corner, sister of murdered journalist Lyra McKee, said she would 'support' her sisters killers if they came forward Her comments come as hundreds gathered for a rally at the conclusion of a three-day peace walk in memory of Lyra. Snow Patrol frontman Gary Lightbody also joined the procession on the last leg on Monday ahead of the demonstration at Derry's Guildhall Square. Ms Corner held the 1998 Good Friday Agreement aloft as she urged politicians to do a deal to end the threat of bombs and bullets once and for all. 'Here, in front of all of these people present, in the name of my sister, I offer to support you in the difficult task of coming forward and accepting responsibility for your actions,' she added. 'I know that is not going to be easy, and it is certainly not going to be easy for me. 'But I am prepared to go there, I am prepared to have that difficult conversation, I am prepared to be there as you hand yourself in. Ms McKee was killed last month by New IRA dissidents in Londonderry as she observed the group clashing with police 'I promise you here and now that I will meet you at any police station, anywhere on this island, to support you in taking the brave step of handing yourself in and allowing my sister the justice she deserves.' Ms Corner said she hoped the gunman needed relief from guilt and said he had not intended to turn himself into a killer. 'Yet the events as they developed led to that becoming your reality. You are now a killer, now the person who killed Lyra McKee, my baby sister, and you cannot take that back.' She added doing the right thing was sometimes the most difficult. 'Together we can end this nightmare because failure is not an option.' During the funeral a priest asked Northern Ireland's politicians why it took the death of a 29-year-old woman to unite their parties. The latest talks process designed to restore devolved political powersharing was launched soon after the murder. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) released videos which appeared to show the moment a gunman fired the shots aimed at officers which killed the journalist. Lyra had planned to propose to her partner, Sara Canning, and get married in the Irish Republic, where same-sex marriage is legal. Hundreds gathered for a rally at the conclusion of a three-day peace walk in memory of Ms McKee Ms Corner said: 'I hope that no other family has to experience what we and countless other families have had to experience in this country and beyond. 'This has to be the end of bombs and bullets forever, and this is something that we the people can only achieve if we work together peacefully, each and every one of us. 'Everyone needs to remember that no one loses anything through equality, no one loses anything by seeking to work together and no one loses anything from peace.' Lightbody wore a T-shirt with a message of support for the family and used an acoustic guitar as he sang two tracks, one penned about his grandmother who lived in Londonderry and another - Light Up. He said he was honoured to take part. 'If anybody feels frustration at our political system or frustration at our inertia in Stormont then perhaps we can look to the positivity today of people gathering together. 'That all they care about is that the people can be who they want to be, love who they want to love and live in peace and prosperity for all of our kids, for our nieces and nephews into the future.' A choir of ordinary people took part. Some had never sung before and met only hours earlier but performed in front of hundreds. They filled a temporary stage, crammed shoulder to shoulder and dressed in everyday clothes, as they sang the murdered journalist's favourite song, Smalltown Girl. They also covered themes like people power. Many in the crowd wore T-shirts in her memory and carried flags with messages of peace. A spokeswoman for the walkers, Susan Curran, said: 'We want to thank the McKee family for their honesty, their integrity, their love and their strength. 'Our hearts are broken for you but our hearts are open for you. 'As Lyra said, it won't always be like this - it will get better.' It is the world's most famous painting, admired for its ground-breaking qualities and the enigmatic look of its subject. But Leonardo da Vinci's portrait of the Mona Lisa has been likened to one of a 'half-dead woman' by controversial feminist Germaine Greer. She made the comments during a discussion about the Renaissance master's work at Hay Festival yesterday, which she called a 'disease'. Germaine Greer speaking at the Hay Festival this week where she made the controversial remarks about the Mona Lisa and Italian museum pieces Miss Greer, who sparked outrage at last year's festival after saying rape was not a 'spectacularly violent crime', added: 'The bloody Mona Lisa! The most important thing to me about this bloody picture is this woman looks as if she's already dead... 'Why am I disappointed in Leonardo as an artist? When I first went to Milan I thought: 'God, there's a lot of bad painting in this place.' 'I went to museum after museum, private collections, beautiful things, and endless smirking angelic ephebes. Me thinking, this is just a disease. And this is in the greatest period of Italian art.' Leonardo da Vinci's most famous work the Mona Lisa, which Greer is not a fan of Miss Greer, 80, added: 'I remember the first time I saw the Mona Lisa. I had come all the way from Australia, go to the Louvre, get to the room, and see the most wonderful painting. Which is the Raphael portrait of Baldassare Castiglione... 'But no one was looking at it. They were all staring at this half-dead woman.' And the writer and academic added that she couldn't forgive da Vinci for his painting The Last Supper, describing it as a 'sloppy piece of work'. This weekend, it was revealed that da Vinci's Salvator Mundi may never go on public display due to doubts over whether it was genuine. Art historian Ben Lewis claimed it was unlikely the work would be displayed due to the damage it would cause to its price. Its owner is understood to be the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman. The work was bought for 345million at Christie's in New York in 2017. At last year's festival, Miss Greer suggested rapists should have an 'R' tattooed on their cheek and be made to do community service rather than be sent to jail. She said: 'Most rape is just lazy, just careless, just insensitive. Every time a man rolls over on his exhausted wife and insists on enjoying his conjugal right, he is raping her.' Marcia Langton has explained why she'll never back Pauline Hanson's 'It's OK to be white' resolution during a heated Q&A debate. The distinguished professor, who holds the Foundation Chair in Australian Indigenous Studies at the University of Melbourne's Faculty of Medicine, was one of several panelists who appeared on the ABC show on Monday evening. Race and religion were a dominant theme, but it was the question of anti-semitism and the duty of Australian leaders to fight against racism that divided the audience. One Nation Senator Pauline Hanson (left) is seen wearing a burqa during Senate Question Time at Parliament House in Canberra on August 17, 2017 Indigenous Studies Professor Marcia Langton (pictured) has explained why she'll never back Pauline Hanson's 'It's OK to be white' resolution during a heated Q&A debate When the subject of One Nation Senator Pauline Hanson wearing a burqa in parliament was raised, Prof Langton brought up the subject of racism in Australia. She spoke about far-right rallies in St Kilda earlier this year and questioned why Australia hadn't followed in the footsteps of some countries in Europe in making it an offence to deny the Holocaust. The professor described how when she saw footage of the protesters giving the Hitler salute it 'enraged her', but there were no laws to prevent it from happening. But despite having a strong stance on the subject of far-right protests, Prof Langton said there was one parliamentary moment that had particularly disgusted her. 'When our senators voted for Pauline Hanson's idiotic resolution 'it's OK to be white' - which is a Ku Klux Klan slogan - I felt sick. And I started to lose hope,' Prof Langton said. She questioned how 'apparently intelligent people' could ever vote for such a resolution, labelling their actions as 'absolutely deeply shocking'. 'Just look at the list of people who voted for that resolution - it's shocking,' she said. 'And to this day I'm going to find it very, very difficult to be civil to the people who voted for that resolution in the Senate.' WHAT WAS PAULINE HANSON'S 'IT'S OK TO BE WHITE' MOTION? One Nation leader Pauline Hanson tried to move a motion in federal parliament last year, saying 'it's OK to be white'. The motion, which was defeated 31-28, came after Ms Hanson declared that perceived 'anti-white' racism was on the rise. 'It is indeed OK to be white. Such a simple sentence should go without saying but I suspect many members in this place would struggle to say it,' she told parliament. 'People have a right to be proud of their cultural background whether they are black, white or brindle.' Crossbench senator Derryn Hinch said at the time that the 'racist' motion 'could have been written on a piece of toilet paper'. Advertisement Senator Hanson (pictured) removes a burqa, which she wore during Senate Question Time at Parliament House in Canberra on August 17, 2017 Ms Langton said the movement has 'brought disgrace to our parliament'. 'This filth is in our parliament and there is barely an objection. Why didn't the people responsible in parliament put a halt to this?' She questioned how the resolution was let through the Senate chamber and said the government has a responsibility to re-educate Australians on historical subjects. She claimed there are some children in Australian schools who are unfamiliar with what the Holocaust is, as well as the genocide convention and the Nuremberg trials. 'I would like to see the Government take these issues much more seriously and I would like to see the responsible members of our parliament take the issue seriously enough to refuse to play games like giving visas to provocateurs who bring this Nazi filth into our country. I want that to stop,' she said. Italy's far-Right leader Matteo Salvini (pictured) last night called on Nigel Farage to join him in the European Parliament and form a new Eurosceptic supergroup Italy's far-Right leader last night called on Nigel Farage's Brexit Party to join him in the European Parliament and form a new Eurosceptic supergroup. After romping home with the largest number of seats in Italy, Matteo Salvini said his victory along with that of Mr Farage in Britain and Marine Le Pen in France showed Europe was changing. When combined, the tallies of Mr Farage's Brexit Party, Mr Salvini's League party and France's National Rally helped deliver the highest number of Eurosceptics ever to the European Parliament. On a dramatic night, it emerged that the centrist coalition that has dominated EU politics for the past 40 years had been given a drubbing in the European elections. For decades the two main blocs have operated a 'Grand Coalition', but on Sunday night it lost its majority and will need to rely on fringe parties. Speaking in Rome yesterday Mr Salvini pledged to continue the charge with 'even more energy, passion and dedication'. He added: 'Not only is the League the top party in Italy, Marine Le Pen is the top party in France, Nigel Farage is the top party in the UK. So Italy, France, the UK, it's a sign of a Europe that is changing.' He said he was counting on the Brexit Party's MEPs to join his Europe of Nations and Freedom (ENF) group in order to swell its number up to 150 and rock the European establishment. Many believe he faces an uphill struggle to reach that figure, but yesterday he insisted it was possible if 'everyone can overcome jealousies, sympathies and antipathies'. The group had only 36 at the end of the last parliamentary term and Mr Farage sat in a separate group, the Europe of Freedom and Direct Democracy Group. Mr Salvini would also need Hungarian leader Viktor Orban's far-Right Fidesz party to leave its current group and join, along with other far-Right parties in Germany, Czech Republic, Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Spain. After romping home with the largest number of seats in Italy, Matteo Salvini said his victory along with that of Nigel Farage (left) in Britain and Marine Le Pen (right) in France showed Europe was changinh In addition, the MEPs of Poland's ruling Law and Justice Party, which made gains, would be needed, but they have previously declined to join Mr Salvini's coalition. Mr Farage has not yet ruled out joining Mr Salvini but it is thought he would be unlikely to do so, having founded the Brexit Party partly to escape Ukip's increasingly extremist direction. It is also thought that some of his MEPs, who come from Left-wing backgrounds, would be against joining a Right-wing alliance. Mr Farage has ruled out joining forces with Miss Le Pen in the past. Yesterday a Brexit Party spokesman said it was too early to draw any conclusions about which parties it would join forces with. He added, however, that because the party had the biggest delegation of MEPs 29 to Mr Salvini's 28 and Miss Le Pen's 22 it was more a question of 'other people joining us'. The Brexit Party has the joint-highest number of MEPs of all parties across Europe. This diagram shows the Brexit Party's dominance everywhere except London and Scotland Following the official declaration of results yesterday the parliament now has around 184 Eurosceptic and reformist MEPs if Mr Orban's are included, up from 155 at the last elections in 2014. The increase helped break the majority held by the two largest centre-Right and centre-Left groups of parties for 40 years. Gains for the Greens and Liberals also contributed to the European People's Party (EPP) and Socialists and Democrats (S&D) losing 87 seats and their majority, which has allowed them to dominate since 1979. A group needs at least 376 seats to hold a majority, so although 150 seats would not give Mr Salvini's ENF group anything like a majority it could make it harder for the main parties to pass laws. It triggers the start of weeks of horse-trading between parties as to who will join forces and create a majority, which will influence who gets the bloc's top jobs. This includes the post of EU Commission president when Jean-Claude Juncker's term ends in November. Yesterday Mr Juncker's right-hand man, EU Commission secretary-general Martin Selmayr, suggested that his boss's reign could be extended well into the new year because of the fragmented election result and the bitter battle over who will replace him which is likely to follow. The leader of the party with the largest number of seats would normally take on the role of EU Commission president. At the moment, this is EPP leader Manfred Weber, a German who is backed by Angela Merkel, Germany's chancellor. But the lack of an absolute majority means his candidacy is far from certain and French president Emmanuel Macron, who boosted Liberal numbers in the parliament, is known to favour Michel Barnier, the EU's chief Brexit negotiator, taking the role. A 12-year-old schoolgirl has died after having an asthma attack while playing netball. Aishani Dutt, from Auckland, New Zealand, was rushed to hospital on May 2 after becoming short of breath. She went in cardiac arrest and died shortly afterwards with her mother Moreen by her side. Before the youngster passed away, Mrs Dutt asked parents at her school to pray for her. Aishani Dutt, from Auckland, New Zealand, was rushed to hospital on May 2 after becoming short of breath The message, shared on the Hobsonville School Facebook page, read: 'To all our loved ones, family, friends and well wishers, just to let you all know, our beautiful baby girl Aishani had a severe asthma attack on Thursday while doing what she loves the most - playing netball with her friends. 'Unfortunately she had a cardiac arrest and is currently fighting for her life. Things are looking bleak but we're holding on to every glimmer of hope we can. 'We would like to request you all to please respect our need for privacy at this very devastating time in our lives. 'Please, please, please pray for my baby girl, that's all that we can ask for at this stage. 'Please don't call as we don't really want to talk but do feel free to text your messages, however don't expect a reply please. 'We'll try our best to keep you all updated as needed. Please don't forget to pray for our Shani. Thank you.' She went in cardiac arrest and died shortly afterwards with her mother Moreen by her side. Aishani's funeral was held on May 9. A fundraising page for her family reads: 'Earlier this month we tragically lost 12 year old Aishani. 'Aishani was a loved member of Hobsonville School, part of an incredible, loving family and part of our Community. 'Aishani was a passionate, determined, loving and talented young girl. 'Aishani's family would like to recognise the amazing effort, treatment and care given to them.' We have followed their lives since they were just seven-years-old, through their school days, to both their joys and disappointments of later life. Now the participants of one of the longest running documentary series in TV, 7UP, are set to star in one last installment of the show. The ITV documentary, directed by Michael Apted, returns to our screens next week to revisit the cast as they reach 63. Three of the remaining original cast members - Sue Davis, Bruce Balden and Tony Walker - joined Apted in speaking about the battle against age ahead of the show's airing. The show originally started with 20 participants, then cutting down to just fourteen which were prominent in the shows. Over the years the cast has dwindled due to various reasons including work and family commitments, as well as the death of one participant Lynne Johnson, in 2013. To celebrate the latest installment in the longest running documentary series in TV history, famous fans of the show also feature in a spin off '7UP and Me', to explain why it means so much to them. They also give a personal insight into how the programme has reflected the major milestones of their own lives. Celebrity guests include Sadie Frost, Stanley Johnson, Julia Bradbury, Eamon Holmes and Michelle Gomez. One of the cast members, Tony Walker, who was renowned for achieving his dream of becoming a jockey, had previously told the Radio Times he would do another series if 'the same crew are still here'. Eastender Tony Walker (left, now) said he would do another series if 'the same crew are still here' but acknowledged age was a factor. Pictured right when the documentary was filmed Sue Davis (left, now) said: 'Personally, I am in a good place but things are going to get worse. You're going to get sicker and older'. Pictured right, when the documentary was filmed Bruce Balden (pictured left on the show as a child) had also appeared in the documentary. As a child he was concerned with poverty. He now works as a teacher and is married with children (right. now 63-years-old) A clip from the show (above) which shows the children at the age of seven playing in a garden But he said: 'Seven to 70' has got a good ring. [But] you have to look at Michael, who's now 77.' Sue Davis, who starred in 7 Up as a schoolgirl with friends the late Lynn Johnson and Jackie Bassett, added: 'Personally, I am in a good place but things are going to get worse. You're going to get sicker and older. 'Both my parents are with me so I'm thinking, "Another seven years, who knows? Am I going to be here, are they going to be here?" There's an element that thinks this would be a good time to finish.' The children themselves were specially selected in order to represent the vast difference between various social and economic backgrounds at the time, with an assumption that each social class would determine what each child would go on to do in later life. Walker (pictured) said he remembered filming beating up the 'posh kids', which included the now Oxford educated Balden, who then aspired to be a missionary in Africa Bruce Balden (pictured above as a child) had been branded as one of the posh kids on the show An image from the 56 UP documentary which shows 56 Up with Jackie Bassett, Lynn Johnson and Sue Davis, seven-years-old And for at least some of the children involved, their lives have panned out as they thought it would. Walker said he remembered filming beating up the 'posh kids', which included the now Oxford educated Balden, who then aspired to be a missionary in Africa. He now teaches at a school in St Albans. Balden said: 'There's something from the seven-year-old in all of us, you can see that. 'It certainly was a polemic about class to begin with, but it has become much more human than that with the stories.' But life has taken a turn for the worse for some involved in the show, with contributor Nick Hitchon being diagnosed with cancer. The group - aged 21: Left to right: Bruce Andrew Peter John Jackie Lynn (back) Neil front Tony Charles Sue Symon Paul Suzy and Nick Apted said the news had been 'extremely painful', adding: 'We do love them all. It's a very close family, and you don't want to hurt people, but we all know we've got a job to do. And it's important. 'No one has ever done this before and no one will ever do it again. We have a very privileged position, so we have to get the best out of it, even if some of it's horrible and painful.' The original show was intended to be a one-off, but after the cameras returned to check-up on the proteges at the age of 14, updates at seven yearly intervals then became routine. Jackie Bassett, Lynn Johnson and Sue Davis pictured above who all took part in the documentary Jackie Bassett, Lynn Johnson and Sue Davis during filming for 56UP, they can be seen holding pictures from other stints of the documentary It started on Granada Television for ITV and followed the lives of the fourteen children. All of the episodes were aired on ITV, except from the 6th episode which was aired on the BBC. Michael Apted (pictured above), 78, who has run the programme since 1964, said next week's 63 Up could be the final one after 56 years The first episode started at London Zoo, with a cast of 20 children, as the narrator announces 'We brought these 20 children together for the very first time.' The series then follows the stories of just fourteen children, Bruce Balden, Jackie Bassett, Symon Basterfield, Andrew Brackfield, John Brisby, Peter Davies, Susan Davis, Charles Furneaux, Nicholas Hitchon, Neil Hughes, Lynn Johnson, Paul Kligerman, Suzanne Lusk and Tony Walker. One participant Lynne Johnson died in 2013, but the rest of the group are still alive, however many have dropped out over the years for various issues, with one of the cast members Nicholas Hitchon, having being diagnosed with cancer. The idea for the programme was inspired by the Jesuit saying: 'Give me the child until he is seven and I will show you the man.' Since it first started in 1964 the programmes have become notorious, even being named in Channel 4's Top 50 Greatest Documentaries, in 2005. Despite being about British children, Davis noted that there had been success for the show in the US, with Americans 'hugging her in the street'. Symon Basterfield (pictured above) had been one of the children in the original documentary and had also appeared in 49 Up which aired in 2005 She said: 'In America I went with Michael to a film festival and the Americans absolutely love this programme.' She added: 'They said they had been watching me since I was seven years old.' In 2012 the show returned with musician Pete Davies coming back to the show, after being one of the participants to have quit. Mr Davies had been on the sidelines since he withdrew from the show after 28 Up was aired in 1984. At 28, Mr Davies was a disillusioned teacher and he decided to quit after his angry criticism of the Thatcher government provoked a vitriolic response. He rejoined his contemporaries after agreeing to a request by director Michael Apted. At the time Mr Davies said: 'They decided they were going to portray me as the angry young Red in Thatcher's England. 'I was absolutely taken aback, genuinely shocked, at the level of ill-will directed towards me.' Mr Davies said he was so scarred by the experience that he stopped watching the series. In the new series, celebrity fans look back to their very contrasting school days. Sally Lindsay and John Thomson recall their teenage trials and triumphs. Stanley Johnson (pictured above) holds a picture of himself as a young boy in 1964 as he talks about his views on parenthood for the new documentary 7UP and me Julia Bradbury holds a picture of herself as a young girl in 1964, as she appears on the show set to air next month Lord Sebastian Coe compares his sporting dreams with those of would be jockey Tony in the Up series, while Michael Sheen remembers the moment when his hopes of a football career ended. Stanley Johnson, Eamonn Holmes and Julia Bradbury share their contrasting views on parenthood. Sir Tony Robinson and Ben Bailey Smith explain which characters in the Up documentaries made the biggest impact on them. This is while William Roache, Rula Lenska and Baroness Tanni Grey Thompson reflect on the sadness of losing their parents. Beverly Knight (pictured above holding a picture of her younger self) will also appear on the spin-off show Sadie Frost, pictured above holding a photo of herself in 1964 as she talks about what the 7UP documentary meant to her Catch up with the Seven Up kids: They once dreamed of being astronauts and jockeys, so where are they now, fifty years on? For decades, millions have followed the lives of the Seven Up kids - 14 children who were plucked from different walks in life to take part in a documentary on their hopes for the future growing up in 1960s Britain. The show was originally intended to be a one-off, but after the cameras returned to check-up on the proteges at the age of 14, updates at seven yearly intervals then became routine. Now the time has come again to see what has become of the participants, who are now aged 56. In 2012 the latest documentary, to be shown documented where the children are now, nearly 50 years after they were first aired to the public as fresh-faced school pupils who wanted to be astronauts, jockeys or missionaries. Reunited decades on: Seven Up participants, clockwise from top left, Sue, John, Jackie, Bruce, Neil, Lynn, Nick, Tony, Symon and Paul The idea for the programme was inspired by the Jesuit saying: 'Give me the child until he is seven and I will show you the man.' And for at least some of the children involved, their lives have panned out as they thought it would. Jackie Bassett, one of the girls picked from London's East End to represent the working classes, admitted to The Guardian, 'I've turned out pretty much as expected'. Married at 24, she was divorced by her thirties, after which she faced single parenthood when she had a son, Charlie (the identity of his father she has never revealed). She went on to have a new relationship with partner Ian, with whom she had two more sons but they also separated. Three little girls: Friends Jackie, Lynn and Susan, aged seven. Jackie thinks her life panned out 'as expected' Girls on film: Friends Jackie, Lynn and Susan, pictured at 14, have been followed by the cameras throughout their lives and have remained friends Meanwhile, Bruce Bladen, who was a pupil at a prestigious boarding school when the show first aired in 1964, has not deviated too far from the environs of his youth as he is now a maths teacher at a respected private school in Hertfordshire. Aged seven, he said he wanted to become a missionary and he achieved his dream in sorts when he taught in Bangladesh after graduating from Oxford. Another of the Seven Up subjects, Symon Basterfield, who was in a care home from a young age, said he felt he and the other children were expected to fit the mould of their backgrounds, when they were first filmed. 'We (the children in care) were supposed to have aspirations to what we wanted in life, but the boys from wealthy backgrounds were encouraged to say their lives were plotted and planned. It was all hopes and dreams for us, but their lives were mapped out.' When I grow up: Charles Furneaux, left, went on to make documentaries of his own Giving back: Symon was in care when the show first aired and is now a foster parent himself Symon's life began turbulently, he never knew his father and as a child of a mixed race relationship, he was often exposed to prejudice. He married and had five children but was divorced by his thirties and badly affected by the loss of his mother, who died when he was 35. This meant he didn't take part in the documentary 35 Up. 'It's a period I don't want to talk about,' he said. He has since gone on to remarry and have another child and now works as freight handler. He and his second wife are foster parents at their home near Heathrow and have cared for more than 60 vulnerable children over the years. Like Symon, the life of Neil Hughes has taken turns that could never have been predicted. When he first featured appeared on television as a bright seven-year-old at his suburban school in Liverpool, he endearingly said: 'When I grow up I want to be an astronaut but if I cant I think Ill be a coach driver.' Ups and downs: Neil Hughes had dreams of becoming an astronaut. He was a university drop out and homeless before turning his life around and running as an MP Later documentaries showed Neil had failed in his dreams to reach Oxford University and by his early twenties, he had dropped out of Aberdeen University and lived in a squat. Throughout his 30s, he struggled to earn a living and spent time homeless or on council estates in Scotland. However, he has since turned his life around and became a district councillor in Cumbria before standing as the Liberal Democrat candidate for Carlisle in the 2010 general election, where he finished third. Meanwhile, other participants did achieve their dreams. Tony Walker, who came from London's East End, did manage to become a jockey, albeit briefly, and raced against Lester Piggott before becoming a taxi driver. And Charles Furneaux, one of three boys followed from a Kensington prep school, went on to make documentaries of his own, most successfully as a producer of 'Touching the Void'. For Michael Apted, who began as a researcher on the documentary and went on to become director, the unpredictable nature of the participants lives is what has made the Up series an important social experiment as well as unmissable viewing over the decades. Varied life: Aged seven, left, Tony Walker said he wanted to be a jockey. He achieved his dream before becoming a taxi driver 'You're fearful when you go back that bad things have happened,' he told The Guardian about what it is like catching up with the Up members at seven year intervals. 'That's the documentarian's curse. You want good things to happen to everybody, but you also want good stories.' He adds that while some of the children involved have opted out in taking part in various stages of the documentary over the years, the majority have remained involved and have become like a family. 'I've turned out pretty much as I expected': Jackie Bassett has left the East End for Scotland and was a single mum who says she's had a good life 'Some of us are close, some of us aren't close. Some of them like me, some of them don't. A family is a very good image of what this is, because we have been together for almost 50 years now.' They have also been fortunate that accident or illness has not yet claimed the lives of those involved. 'When we lose somebody it'll make the others think very hard about doing it again,' admits the show's producer Claire Lewis. 'I don't know what effect that would have on us and on them. It's very hard watching yourself grow old on screen.' Amazon is reportedly on the hunt for at least 100,000 square feet of office space in New York City after dropping plans earlier this year to build a headquarters in nearby Queens. Sources told the New York Post that the online retail giant has expressed interest in office space on Manhattan's West Side. Amazon, founded by billionaire Jeff Bezos, has supposedly been speaking with Brookfield, the owners of the One Manhattan West building and its neighboring yet-to-be built Two Manhattan West. They are hoping to secure at least 100,000 square feet to start. Amazon is reportedly in talks to lease at least 100,000 square feet of office space in this new skyscraper development on Manhattan's West Side. Pictured above is the plans for the development The retail giant is already a tenant in another one of Brookfield's Manhattan buildings. Brookfield denied they were leasing office space to Amazon but the sources said it likely couldn't confirm anything because of the company's strict confidentiality agreements. Amazon also wouldn't comment on the rumored new office space. One Manhattan West currently has some short term space available in its skyscraper, while Two Manhattan West won't be completed and ready for new tenants until 2022. The speculation about Amazon's new office space comes just months after they dropped plans in February to build a headquarters in nearby Long Island City. The ambitious plan would have brought an estimated 25,000 jobs to the city. The speculation about Amazon's new office space comes just months after they dropped plans in February to build a headquarters in nearby Long Island City Amazon had faced fierce opposition from local politicians, including Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who were furious over the nearly $3 billion in tax incentives Amazon was promised. The stunning reversal was a serious blow to Mayor Bill de Blasio and New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, who had both lobbied intensely to land the campus within city limits. Amazon's search for a second headquarters, which it described as HQ2, was deemed a massive, year-long public relations success, garnering worldwide publicity and interest from cities across the U.S. The Seattle-based company had planned to bring 25,000 jobs to New York and spend $2.5 billion building its offices. It announced its plans back in November to build the complex in Queens as one of two new headquarters. When Amazon revealed they would no longer be building in Long Island City, the company said it had no plans to re-open the yearlong search that drew 238 proposals from cities across North America. A number of pilots in the United States Navy reported seeing unidentified flying objects (UFOs) over American airspace between 2014 and 2015. One of them, Lt. Ryan Graves, said he saw UFOs on an almost daily basis in the airspace off the Eastern seaboard between Florida and Virginia. These UFOs would reach altitudes of up to 30,000ft and flew at hypersonic speeds without leaving any visible engine exhaust, Graves told The New York Times. Graves said he reported what he witnessed to the Pentagon and Congress. The Times story features video of two encounters Navy pilots allegedly had with UFOs. The videos include visual radar and voice recordings by pilots who are amazed at what they see. 'What the [expletive] is that thing?' one pilot is heard saying as he is unable to positively identify an object in his radar A number of pilots have reported seeing objects flying at altitudes of up to 30,000ft above the Eastern seaboard between 2014 and 2015 Pilots said that the flying objects were able to stop suddenly and turn quickly while reaching hypersonic speeds These things would be out there all day, Graves said. With the speeds we observed, 12 hours in the air is 11 hours longer than wed expect. Graves said the most unusual thing about these UFOs was their ability to stop suddenly, turn on a dime, and immediately accelerate to hypersonic speeds. Speed doesnt kill you, Graves said. Stopping does. Or acceleration. In 2014, a pilot operating a Super Hornet fighter jet reported that he nearly collided with a UFO. The pilot recalled that something which resembled a sphere encasing a cube flew in between two fighter jets that were flying around 100ft apart from each other. Another pilot, Lt. Danny Accoin, said he noticed a flying object on his radar, missile system, and infrared camera, but he wasnt able to see it in his helmet. I knew I had it, I knew it was not a false hit, Accoin said. [But] I could not pick it up visually. The pilots began to notice more activity after their radar systems were upgraded, but most thought they were false radar tracks. The UFOs were spotted in areas that were designated for fighter jet training, which makes it unlikely that these were commercial drones or other objects that are classified. But none of the pilots or the Pentagon would speculate as to what they believed the objects were. 'Were here to do a job, with excellence, not make up myths,' said Lt. Accoin. The pilots' claims come a week after a Department of Defense spokesperson reportedly confirmed the Pentagon's interest in UFO's, citing the agency's investigation of 'unidentified aerial phenomena.' According to a report from the New York Post, a representative confirmed that the U.S. government studied and investigated the occurrence of mysterious and unexplained aircraft as a part of the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program that was made public in 2017. Media commentator and former British defense official Nick Pope told the Post that the specific choice of words marks a major step in the way that the government talks about unidentified aircraft. 'This new admission makes it clear that they really did study what the public would call UFOs, he told the Post. 'It also shows the British influence, because UAP was the term we used in the Ministry of Defence to get away from the pop culture baggage that came with the term UFO.' The shift in terminology comes just weeks after the U.S. Navy unveiled new guidelines on collecting information about UFO sightings. As reported by Politico, the guidelines are designed to make it easier for sailors to report UFO sightings amid fears that mysterious unidentified flying objects could actually be 'extremely advanced Russian aircraft.' The Navy has reported an uptick in the number of 'highly advanced aircraft' encroaching on its air space. Last week, the Pentagon admitted it had studied 'unidentified aerial phenomena' In 2017, former Pentagon official Luis Elizondo made headlines when he detailed the existence of the UFO-focused Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program - a $22million government operation that studied UFOs Among the sightings were reports from pilots of two U.S. Navy Super Hornet fighters who spotted a UFO on a training mission 'There have been a number of reports of unauthorized and/or unidentified aircraft entering various military-controlled ranges and designated air space in recent years,' a spokesperson for the Navy said to Politico in April. Throughout the last several years, the U.S. Government has shown an increasing willingness to acknowledge its investigation and interest of UFO's. In 2017, former Pentagon official Luis Elizondo made headlines when he detailed the existence of the UFO-focused Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program - a $22million government operation that studied UFOs. The secretive program sought to identify UFO sightings through U.S. surveillance and eyewitness reports and then 'ascertain and determine if that information is a potential threat to national security.' Among the sightings were reports from pilots of two U.S. Navy Super Hornet fighters who spotted a UFO on a training mission. The pilots reportedly spotted a mysterious vehicle, around 40ft long, oval-shaped and whitish, hovering erratically above the ground. The craft 'had no plumes, wings or rotors,' but traveled at a mile per second. When pilots approached the object, it easily outran the military jets. Elizondo resigned from his post in 2017 in protest over what he has termed excessive secrecy and internal opposition to the project. Although the Pentagon officially stopped funding the project in 2012, reports from the New York Times suggest the program is still operating. Anti-vaxxer mums who have been forced to vaccinate their children to comply with Australia's 'no jab, no play' laws are sharing the methods they use to 'detox' their children after the procedure. Mothers in the Geelong Mummas Mingle Facebook group said they were giving their children detox baths and feeding them particular foods in an attempt to flush out supposed toxins they received during the vaccination process. According to one misguided mother in the group, bathing children and infants in Bentonite clay, coriander, lavender and Epsom salts eliminates 'heavy metals and toxins'. She also suggested delaying vaccines for as long as possible in order to 'research and make a fully informed decision'. Anti-vaxxers have been described as 'irresponsible' by health professionals and experts, who recommend parents get their children vaccinated. Mothers in the Geelong Mummas Mingle Facebook group said they were giving their children detox baths and feeding them particular foods in an attempt to flush out supposed toxins they received during the vaccination process Mothers in the Geelong Mummas Mingle Facebook group said they were giving their children detox baths and feeding them particular foods in an attempt to flush out supposed toxins they received during the vaccination process. 'It's not mandatory to vaccinate I no longer vaccinate my kids.' While it is not illegal to leave children non-vaccinated, states have introduced a 'no jab, no play' policy restricting the movements of non-vaccinated children. The legislation means all children need to be up to date with their vaccinations unless they are medically exempt to enroll in childcare or kindergartens. Adrian Stone, a nutritionist from Living Holistic Health in Geelong, told the Geelong Advertiser the detox process may in fact do more harm than good. He said the best way to ensure the health and well-being of a child is to ensure they are eating a rich and well balanced variety of foods. The Australian Medical Association has previously said that there is 'conclusive evidence' that vaccines are effective in preventing illness in children. While it is not illegal to leave children non-vaccinated, states have introduced a 'no jab, no play' policy restricting the movements of non-vaccinated children The mother also said she intensified her detox routines during vaccine periods. 'I do this regularly but really focus on it when it's vaccine time,' she said. A list of products her children consume to ward off the supposed toxins in vaccines includes ascorbic acid daily and liquid bone broth. She also recommended children eat activated charcoal, elderberries and a teaspoon of smoothie-like blended, raw coriander every day. 'You don't have to vaccinate if you don't want to. I think it impacts the payments you receive (if any). Delayed schedules are much gentler for a young child's developing body to handle'. There's a new burger joint on everyone's lips that started in Noosa - but is quickly winning over the rest of Australia. After less than five years in business, Betty's is fast becoming an Aussie-favourite for their authentic, juicy burgers. Described as a classic burger shack, Betty's has now set up shop at more than 10 locations in Queensland, as well as four stores in Sydney, Victoria and South Australia. To celebrate International Burger Day, one lucky burger-lover will be whisked away in Betty's signature kombi van to Noosa, the coastal hometown of Betty's Burgers where the 1950s-inspired diner was established David Hales, founder of Betty's Burgers, told Daily Mail Australia that Sydney was a tough market to crack, but the risk paid off. 'We know the Sydney burger market is competitive, however, we also know Betty's Burgers have the freshest and tastiest burgers on offer and this is what really sets us apart from the rest.' 'Our entire menu, while simple, has taken the team an extensive period of time to create and source what we believe are the best burgers in Australia.' After less than five years in business, Betty's is fast becoming an Aussie-favourite for their authentic, juicy burgers. Pictured: the line up for one of Betty's Queensland cafes In celebration of International Burger Day on Tuesday, Betty's Burgers and food delivery app Deliveroo have partnered to give away an instant tropical holiday. One lucky burger-lover will land a trip to Noosa, the spiritual home of Betty's Burgers on the Queensland Sunshine Coast, where the 1950s-inspired diner was established in 2014. Customers have until the end of the day to place an order with Betty's Burgers on the Deliveroo app to be in the running. The winner will be chauffeured to airport in a beach kombi van. Deliveroo spokesman Joe Satari said with winter upon us, the time was now to treat yourself to some comfort food. Described as a classic burger shack, Betty's has now set up shop at more than 10 locations in Queensland, four stores across Sydney, four in Victoria and South Australia and is fast becoming an Aussie burger favourite Where to get cheap burgers on International Burger Day McDonald's: the golden arches are giving away 250,000 Quarter Pounders on the mymaccas app Surly's: the Surry Hills eatery are halving the price of burgers today The Burger Project: stores in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne are giving away 500 free burgers Royal Stacks: the Melbourne burger joint are taking 30% off Deliveroo orders Chur Burger: the Sydney and Brisbane burger cafe are taking five dollars off original burgers all day Advertisement Deliveroo is offering 30 per cent off at more than 100 selected burger stores, including Ogalo, Royal Stacks and Johnny Bird. McDonald's is also getting in the spirit of International Burger Day. The Golden Arches are giving away 250,000 Quarter Pounders to customers. But the fast food giant's restaurants descended into chaos in Sydney. Punters can devour the hotter, juicier and tastier Quarter Pounders by logging on to the mymacca's app. KFC is also offering two-for-one burgers to mark international burger day. Customers can buy one Original Recipe KFC Burger and get another for free, only on the KFC app. A young woman who was jailed for helping her father cover up her mother's murder could gain access to a multi-million-dollar trust fund once she is released. Annabel Chen was fatally bashed in her home by Ah Ping Ban, 69, and later stuffed into a suitcase that was dumped in Perth's Swan River in 2016. Their daughter Tiffany Wan, 27, was sentenced to four years and ten months behind bars for being an accessory to the killing. Despite her involvement in the crime, Wan could be set for a cash influx thanks for her mother's estate once she is released on parole - which could be as early as July. Ah Ping Ban and his daughter Tiffany Yiting Wan (pictured together) have been jailed over the murder of Annabelle Chen Western Australian woman Annabelle Chen (pictured)was killed in her Perth home before being stuffed in a suitcase and dumped in a river Ms Chen had a trust fund that held millions of dollars' worth of property and her daughter has been named as one of its beneficiaries, WA Today reported. It is understood that as Ms Chen did not have a will, law firm Haynes Leeuwin has been appointed as the administrator of her estate. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Haynes Leeuwin for comment. A post-mortem found Ms Chen's face had been beaten 25 times with a blunt object and had left her with a fractured skull. After her body was recovered, Ms Chen's identity remained a mystery for two months, until Wan reported her missing. Ms Chen's daughter, Tiffany Wan (pictured) covered for her father because she idolised him Ms Chen's body was found stuffed in a blue suitcase, floating in Fremantle's Swan River Covering for her father, she told police a false story about the last time she had seen her mother. The young woman said the last time she saw her mother alive was when she walked out of her home and got into a car that was driven away by an Asian-looking man. She stopped covering for her father in early 2018, when she was charged with murder alongside Ban. The pair had blamed each other for Ms Chen's murder. Wan was acquitted of murder but found guilty of accessory after the fact. Ban was sentenced to life in prison after Ms Chen's half-naked body was found by a pair of fishermen in a suitcase floating in the river. Divers scoured the scene after the body was recovered, discovering a pair of glasses A gang suspected of carrying out a series of home invasions and carjackings on Sunday and Monday morning have continued their alleged crime spree. Police on Tuesday arrested a 17-year-old boy after a BMW believed to be have stolen in the early hours of the morning was found in a shopping centre car park. The group, described by police as of African appearance, allegedly broke into a home on Avoca Avenue in Mernda, north-east Melbourne, at 4am. Once inside, the group - allegedly armed with 'edged weapons' and metal poles - allegedly stole property and the homeowner's white BMW SUV. A group of men, described by police as of African appearance, allegedly broke into a home (pictured) on Avoca Avenue in Mernda, north-east Melbourne, at 4am on Tuesday A 41-year-old man was allegedly left with minor injuries to his face while a 40-year-old woman and two children were unharmed. After the robbery the allegedly stolen BMW was seen driving alongside a Mercedes, which was allegedly stolen from Derrimut early on Monday, towards Geelong. Police saw the BMW just before 5am in Geelong West and chased the car but had to stop due to the speeds the car was travelling. The Mercedes was found abandoned on Lunan Avenue in Drumcondra. The men are believed to also be involved in two alleged attacks on Sunday night and one in the early hours of Monday morning. Four men allegedly broke into a home in Bentleigh East, Melbourne, at 8.40pm on Sunday. One of the men was allegedly armed with a knife and threatened the owners, a 39-year-old man and 32-year-old woman, who were both allegedly assaulted and left with minor injuries. The men then allegedly fled with jewellery, computers and handbags, and also took the victims' black BMW. 'Crime Spree': Map of Melbourne shows the alleged two-day rampage across the city The gang allegedly crashed the car on the Westgate Freeway by driving it into a barrier. As another car slowed down to help, one of the gang allegedly got out and tried to open the door of the other vehicle. The 45-year-old man and his female passenger, 39, managed to drive away unharmed and the BMW was found dumped nearby. Police were then called to a house in Port Melbourne just after 9pm following reports of an aggravated carjacking. It is understood a woman was about to put her child into the car when she was allegedly approached by three men. One allegedly pulled out a knife and demanded her vehicle. The alleged victim, a 42-year-old Box Hill North woman, called for help and was assisted by a family member, a 40-year-old man also from Box Hill North. The men are believed to also be involved in two alleged attacks on Sunday night and one in the early hours of Monday morning Police later responded to an alleged aggravated burglary in Derrimut about 12.10am on Monday. On this occasion, four masked men armed with knives allegedly broke into a home on Ivy Close and were confronted by the occupants He was also allegedly threatened by the gang, who took off in their vehicle, described as a black 2012 Hyundai i30. The alleged victims were not injured. Police later responded to an alleged aggravated burglary in Derrimut about 12.10am on Monday. On this occasion, four masked men armed with knives allegedly broke into a home on Ivy Close and were confronted by the occupants. A 65-year-old man was allegedly assaulted during the incident and sustained a minor laceration. He did not require hospital treatment. A 58-year-old woman, 91-year-old man and 64-year-old woman, who were also home at the time, were not injured. Once inside the group - armed with 'edged weapons' and metal poles - stole various items and the home owner's white BMW SUV. Pictured: Mernda home '[Australia] was a very nice country. Now - no,' one of the women told Seven News. 'I was woken by four masked men standing over bed, knife at throat. They come to my bedroom and put the knife in my neck, and I screamed to tell them, "Please leave us. Leave us, we have nothing to give to you. Please, please".' The gang allegedly stole two cars, a grey 2010 Mercedes sedan and a black 2015 Honda HR-V registration 1EY3DI. The Hyundai from Port Melbourne was dumped nearby. Police are searching for the black 2015 Honda HR-V stolen on Sunday night and the other men believed to have been involved. Donald Trump's poll numbers may be trending downward, but the president's odds of winning re-election are looking up, according to economists. Obama administration Treasury Secretary adviser Steve Rattner wrote a New York Times opinion column about Trump's 2020 White House chances on Monday. In his piece, Rattner, who served as counselor under former Treasury Secretary Tim Geittner, focused on three reports on prediction models from accredited economists who all found Trump will most likely retain his presidency next fall. These same models foresaw Barack Obama's historic White House win in 2008, his re-election in 2012, and Trump's unexpected victory in 2016. Donald Trump's poll numbers may be trending downward as of late, but the president's odds of winning re-election are looking up, according to economists Moody's economist and Trump critic Mark Zandi has analyzed 12 prediction models for 2020 that evaluate economic trends at the state level and add political factors such as a president's approval rating. Zandi said Trump won in all 12 models in spite of his character. 'If the election were held today, Trump would win according to the models and pretty handily,' Zandi told Politico in March. 'In three or four of them it would be pretty close. He's got low gas prices, low unemployment and a lot of other political variables at his back. The only exception is his popularity, which matters a lot. If that falls off a cliff it would make a big difference.' Donald Luskin of Trend Macrolytics examined the likely Electoral College outcomes and reached the same conclusion as Zandi. Rattner also noted that some of the models that predicted Trump would win in 2016 overestimated his margin of victory by an uncharacteristically high margin, which he credits to Trump's polarizing persona. Yale economics professor Ray Fair's model found Trump's 2020 vote share would ordinarily be as high as 56.1 percent, but notes 'that's before factoring in his personality'. Some these economists' same models foresaw Barack Obama's historic White House win in 2008, his re-election in 2012, and Trump's unexpected victory in 2016 The key factors working in Trump's favor at the moment are his incumbency and America's currently good economy Polls suggest Joe Biden has the best chance of beating Trump even though many on the Left are opposed to the former Vice President winning the Democratic nomination. Rattner noted that Trump lost the popular vote to Hillary Clinton by a wide margin of roughly three million people. 'I'm quite confident that the [prediction model] gap was a function of the generally unfavorable rankings on Mr. Trump's personal qualities,' Rattner wrote. 'In other words, a more 'normal' Republican would likely have won the popular vote by a substantial margin (instead of losing it by three million votes).' The key factors working in Trump's favor at the moment are his incumbency and America's currently good economy. CBS News notes that of the 20 incumbent US presidents before Trump who have been up for re-election only five, roughly 26 percent including Gerald Ford, have lost. 'The question for 2020 may well be whether Mr. Trump can overcome the majority of voters' poor perception of him and use a good economy and incumbency to win re-election,' Rattner said. A frail looking Ivan Milat has been seen for the first time in a decade, being wheeled out of the hospital where he has spent the past two weeks being treated for cancer. Milat, 74, was transferred from Prince of Wales Hospital, in Randwick, to nearby Long Bay Prison on Tuesday morning under heavy guard from police and prison officers. The ageing killer was dressed in regulation prison greens with long white hair, while his trademark handlebar moustache was also white. Milat - Australia's worst ever serial killer - has been in hospital since May 13 where he has been undergoing treatment for throat and stomach cancer. Doctors have told him he likely has just weeks left to live. He arrived at Long Bay Prison just after 12.30pm, sitting in the backseat between two prison officers and with his head bowed. After he settles into his new prison home, New South Wales police will take one last chance to quiz Milat about several unsolved murders he has long been suspected of. Scroll down for video A frail looking Ivan Milat (pictured) has been seen for the first time in a decade, being wheeled out of Prince of Wales H ospital in Randwick to be transported to the nearby Long Bay Prison Milat (pictured) - Australia's worst ever serial killer - has been in hospital since May 13 where he is being treated for cancer of the oesophagus. Doctors have given him just weeks left to live Milat, 74, was dressed in regulation prison greens with long white hair, while his trademark handlebar moustache was also white. He looked gaunt, having lost close to 20kgs in recent months Milat worked in construction during the 1980s. His handlebar moustache became (pictured) legendary In 1996 Milat was convicted of killed seven backpackers and dumping their bodies in the Belanglo State Forest, south of Sydney. But despite a mountain of evidence against him, he has never confessed. In addition to the deaths of Deborah Everist, James Gibson, Simone Schmidl, Gabor Neugebauer, Anja Habschied, Caroline Clarke and Joanne Walters, Milat is set to be asked about other unsolved deaths that occurred during the time he committed his. Among them will be that of Peter Letcher, an 18-year-old man found dead in January 1988. The deceased man had five bullet holes in his head and Milat was employed by the Department of Main Roads at the time in that area. His elderly father Brian Letcher, who now lives on the Gold Coast in Queensland, said a confession from Milat would mean a lot to him. 'We have only ever had rumours,' Mr Letcher, now 77, told The Australian. 'If he would confess to it, it would be a big relief, but there's probably a 100 per cent chance of him not confessing.' After two weeks in hospital Milat was transferred under heavy guard from police and prison officers Wearing white, Dunlop Volley style shoes, Milat had shackles around his feet and handcuffs on his hands Milat was placed into the back seat of a 4WD and driven the 15 minutes south to his new home - Long Bay Prison Milat has spent the past fortnight been cared for on Level 9 of Prince of Wales Hospital, in the secure unit (pictured) which is designed specifically to house prisoners in need of treatment The hospital ward is fitted out to be like a prison and features reinforced walls, steel doors and barred windows THE MILAT MURDERS: Between 1989 and 1992 seven young backpackers went missing while hitch-hiking on the outskirts of Sydney, New South Wales. Their bodies were all discovered in the Belanglo State Forest, near Bowral, south of Sydney, and found to be victims of serial killer Ivan Milat. The victims were: Victorians Deborah Everist and James Gibson, both 19, who were last seen in December 1989, and who were each stabbed multiple times. German Simone Schmidl, 20, who disappeared in January 1991 and died from multiple stab wounds, including a knife through her spinal cord. German Gabor Neugebauer, 21, who was gagged and shot six times and his 20-year-old girlfriend Anja Habschied, who was decapitated after they disappeared in January 1992. Britons Caroline Clarke, 21, who was shot 10 times as if she was target practice and Joanne Walters, 22, who was stabbed. Last seen in April 1992. Ivan Milat received seven life sentences for the murders and will die in Goulburn's Supermax prison. Advertisement Milat was jailed in 1996 after being convicted of murdering seven backpackers in the Belanglo State Forest, south of Sydney, between 1989 and 1992. He has spent most most of the last two-and-a-half decades in Goulburn's Supermax prison, the strictest in Australia. Milat has left the prison on just two other occasions - once in 2001 for a court appearance and once in 2009 when he cut off his finger. He is currently serving seven life sentences, which are all to be served consecutively and without the posibility of parole. He stabbed most of his victims - decapitating one whose head has never been found - and shot another 10 times in the head as if using her for target practice. He was also questioned in 2004 about the disappearance of two nurses at Parramatta in 1980 when he was working at the nearby Granville depot of the then Department of Main Roads. In 2006 Milat was named by police at an inquest as the person most likely to have killed a schoolgirl and her boyfriend who disappeared from northern Sydney in 1978. Online trolls have cruelly attacked murdered Melbourne woman Courtney Herron as a worthless 'heroin junkie' on social media sites dedicated to the homeless. Cruel people took to Facebook to declare the 25-year-old deserves a 'pauper's funeral' while others have used her death to defend the behaviour of men. The young woman's body was found by dog walkers in Royal Park about 9.30am on Saturday. Online trolls have vented against murder victim Courtney Herron in a series of sickening posts on Facebook. Many targeted specific sites supporting the homeless Cruel posts have emerged on Facebook critical of the homeless and drug takers. Some have gone so far as to suggest murder victim Courtney Herron deserved a 'pauper's funeral' Homeless man Henry Hammond, 27, fronted the Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Monday charged with Ms Herron's murder. Daily Mail Australia has been told Ms Herron had been living on Melbourne's streets for anywhere up to two years. She was known to be a visitor at Deborah Henry's 'Street Feeds' at Batman Park on the northern bank of the Yarra River in central Melbourne leading up to her death. Hot meals have been served to the homeless two or three times a week at the location for years and it is a well known venue for those in need. Henry Hammond appeared in court on Monday with no shoes on and nodded when he was told he'd be held in custody until his next appearance in September A message left by Courtney Herron's grandmother at the scene. She cried to the skies as if looking for answers as to why her beloved had been taken away Ms Henry's Facebook site, along with others dedicated to the homeless, have been hit with offensive posts since the tragedy unfolded last weekend. Ms Henry was forced to delete some posts from her Us 2 You Facebook page and has since called on people to cut out the negative comments. 'Courtney came to our food services, she was a beautiful girl,' she posted. Most of the comments centred around heartless people declaring Ms Herron deserved a 'pauper's grave' due to a fundraising effort initiated by another volunteer. Henry Hammond has been described as an 'enigma' who may have been living out of a combi van in Brunswick. He has been charged with murder Another insensitive post blaming supposed drug taking by the victim for her own bloody demise. The posts have since been deleted but continue to emerge as more details about Courtney Herron's life are revealed Defence: Donna Stolzenberg, from the National Homeless Collective, was targeted by trolls after she created a fundraising page to help Ms Herron's parents pay for her funeral Donna Stolzenberg, from the National Homeless Collective, was targeted by trolls after she created a fundraising page to help Ms Herron's parents pay for her funeral. The GoFundMe currently sits at a little over $10,000, which at present, could barely pay for a coffin. 'When you go down the angle that someone was on drugs, the community just starts to hate them automatically,' she said. 'It's really sad, but the difference with a fundraiser for a guy who shoved a trolley at a terrorist and a fundraiser for a woman who was murdered in the park - we're barely getting to $10,000 ... At the same time with the other one we were probably edging towards $50,000.' The fundraiser went onto earn $145,000 for Michael Rogers. Ms Stolzenberg said she was appalled by some of the comments that have flooded onto sites operated by her, including one specifically set up to support homeless people. The last time Ms Herron saw her family was during Greek Easter and the 25-year-old briefly stayed with her grandmother before leaving abruptly in the middle of the night Mourners lay flowers at the tragic scene where Courtney Herron's life was cut short 'Everyone else is like ''junkie in a park'' ... ''Well, why was she out there'', ''If she's out there on drugs that's her own fault'' and blah blah blah. I just delete them,' she said. Ms Herron's parents, who are understood to be separated, are expected to hold a funeral for their daughter next week. Ms Henry said everyone deserved a proper burial. 'People have suggested she be given a pauper's funeral - are you serious,' she said. 'Everyone deserves a decent send-off regardless if they live on the street or in a house.' Ms Stolzenberg said the comments tainted people's view of what had happened to Ms Herron. 'Seriously, no-one wants to be a drug addict on the street ... it all happens because there was some kind of trauma in their lives and something has happened that the person could not get support for and ended up taking drugs to numb it,' she said. National Homeless Collective founder Donna Stolzenberg (left) and 'Trolley Man' Michael Rogers leave court at an earlier appearance at Melbourne. A GoFundMe page set up by Ms Stolzenberg raised $145,000 for Rogers It is understood Ms Herron was fighting her own drug demons, believed to be heroin, but could not get the support she required because she did not have a stable home address. Reports suggest she had sort treatment on both the Methadone program and the detox drug Cedoxone. Ms Stolzenberg said if accurate, Ms Herron's story would not dissimilar to thousands of other Australians who have lived on the streets. 'The message we're trying to get out there is to stop vilifying people who are on drugs because I've never ever once met a person on drugs who didn't have a horrific backstory,' she said. The mother and grandmother of Melbourne woman Courtney Herron threw themselves onto the spot she was allegedly murdered on and cried to the sky for answers on Monday 'The majority of the homeless end up on drugs when they hit the streets, not before. Life on the streets creates it.' She said the answer would only come from more funding to rehabilitation facilities, treatment and housing. 'At present it's a joke. As soon as the staff go to bed the dealers are over the side of the fence and they're getting a hit from them,' she said. 'The help is not available for people so you've got people trying to unpack years and years of trauma and they're given an hour appointment and they didn't even begin to get to the start of it ... the system is so broken and it does not help people with drug problems.' Ms Henry said four homeless people had died on the streets in Melbourne over the past two months. 'How many more are going to die?' she said. By the age of 27 his hair became wispy and thin In his younger days, Prince William was known for his lush hair and good looks When asked if he considered himself less or more vain than British men Lowe said, 'British men set a low bar' - citing the Duke of Cambridge's lost tresses 'Honestly, one of the great traumatic experiences of my life was watching Prince William lose his hair. Hes going to be the f***ing king of England!' he said Rob Lowe, 55, is calling Prince William out for his hair loss Rob Lowe is poking fun at Prince William for his hair loss, calling the dramatic transformation of his once-enviable mane 'a traumatic experience'. 'Can we talk about William? The future king of your country let himself lose his hair!' the 55-year-old actor joked. 'Honestly, one of the great traumatic experiences of my life was watching Prince William lose his hair. Hes going to be the f***ing king of England!' he exclaimed in an interview with the Daily Telegraph. Rob Lowe, 55, believes that British men have a 'low bar' for vanity, and Prince William's hair loss is his prime example. The Duke of Cambridge pictured right in May 2019 Glory days: 'Honestly, one of the great traumatic experiences of my life was watching Prince William lose his hair. Hes going to be the f***ing king of England!' Lowe said. The smiling Prince pictured above in 2005 with a full head of hair When asked if he considered himself less or more vain than British men Loew said, 'British men set a low bar', while reflecting on his latest role in the ITV drama Wild Bill, where he plays an American cop policing the English town of Lincolnshire. Then he went in on the Duke of Cambridge. 'And theres a pill! The first glimmer that a single hair of mine was going to fall out, I was having that stuff mainlined into my veins. And thats what I did for the next 30 years,' Loew said, citing his personal effort to keep his healthy mane. The beginning: Lowe urged the Prince to take a pill to deal with his hair loss that saw his hair thin and become wispy in 2006 (left) at the age of 24 and worsen by 2009 (right) at the age of 27 Going bald: By 2010 (left) the Prince's bald spot became more pronounced and by 2018 (right) he embraced a shaved head look Today the Prince's baldness is much more pronounced but he seems to be unfazed and unbothered to pursue a hair regrowth solution. Pictured above on April 26, 2019 In his younger days, William was known for his lush hair and charming good looks. But with age, his long locks have gone and his hairline has receded. His hair started to wisp around 2009 and 2010, around the same time he and Kate Middleton got engaged. By 2016 the top of his hair was gone and in 2018 he rocked a bold shaved head look. Despite Lowe's critiques, the Prince has always appeared unfazed his baldness and hasn't seemed to pursue a hair regrowth solution. A mother who died in a horrific head-on highway crash along with her four children has been remembered as an 'amazing' woman whose 'kids were her world'. Charmaine Harris McLeod, 35, died instantly on Monday night when she was overtaking a truck on the Bunya Highway near Kumbia, Queensland. Emergency workers described the crash as 'catastrophic' and one of the worst scenes they had ever been to. Three of Ms McLeod's children were unable to be rescued and died in the back seat of the family's station wagon, and a fourth child was rushed to hospital but died on the way. Devastated friends flooded social media with tributes to Ms McLeod and her children Aaleyn, 6, Matilda, 5, Wyatt, 4 and Zaidok, 2 - who all lived in Eli Waters, Hervey Bay. Charmaine Harris McLeod, 35, died in a horrific head-on highway crash along with her four children Ms McLeod, 35, died instantly on Monday night when she was overtaking a truck on the Bunya Highway near Kumbia, Queensland, along with her children 'I've never seen a single mum let alone of four give up so much for their kids,' a friend wrote. 'I can't believe what I've woken up to this never should've f**king happened I'm in so much shock and pain, this is so f**ked life is so unfair'. 'Those kids were something else I tell you and lived like princes and princesses for their short life they had but there was nothing materialistic to it they were just so happy and loved and their happiness came before anything.' Another friend wrote: 'You were always there for me when i need a friend and you always gave me the kick up the butt I needed. I miss you.' 'You will always be in my heart'. It is understood Ms McLeod had recently separated from the children's father James McLeod, who was still in regular contact with the kids. Friends offered their love and support to Mr McLeod on social media in the aftermath of the tragedy. 'James McLeod I am here for you...sorry about your four angels,' a friend wrote. Ally, 6, Matilda, 5, Wyatt, 4, and Zaidok, 2, (pictured with their father James McLeod) were in the car with their mother Charmaine when they were killed Three of the four children died in the car while one of the young girls staggered outside with horrific burns and other injuries and died on the way to hospital A neighbour, Gary Loweke, who used to mow the lawn for Ms McLeod said they were a friendly family and the kids were often on the street playing hopscotch or riding their bikes. 'It's a bloody disaster... those four kids waved at us every day as we went past,' Mr Loweke said. 'Charmaine was friendly, she was really nice... she was very good with the kids. If she wasn't there, her sister would be there, but she was never far away from her family for long. 'They'll be greatly missed on the street, all the houses around there had young kids and they all used to play together. 'The littlest fella, he used to just sit there and when he'd see you, he'd stand up where he was and give you the biggest wave. It's hard not seeing that.' Police believed the family was driving from the Bundaberg area, about 90 minutes north of Hervey Bay. They were travelling south along the Bunya Highway, about three hours from home, but it was not clear where they were headed. Ms McLeod was remembered as remembered as an 'amazing' woman whose 'kids were her world' 'Those kids were something else I tell you and lived like princes and princesses for their short life they had but there was nothing materialistic to it they were just so happy and loved and their happiness came before anything,' a friend said Emergency workers described the crash as 'catastrophic' and one of the worst scenes they had ever been to Police said initial investigations showed Ms McLeod was overtaking a truck when she slammed head-on into an oncoming vehicle. Emergency workers at the crash scene described what they were confronted with as 'catastrophic' and found it 'extremely traumatic and upsetting'. The truck Ms McLeod slammed into also caught fire but the driver, a 47-year-old man, escaped and was taken to hospital for his injuries. He is understood to have burned his arms while heroically trying to free the family from the car as it was engulfed in flames. Kawungan State School, in Hervey Bay, said its community was 'deeply shocked and saddened' by the death of the two eldest children. 'They were both joyful and friendly children who will be greatly missed by all their friends and teachers,' Principal Mark Jones said 'Our thoughts and sincere sympathies go out to the family, caregivers, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. 'Support is being provided to students and staff, and guidance counsellors will remain at the school to provide support in any way they can and for as long as it is needed.' A policeman at the scene told Channel 9: 'It's certainly one of the worst accidents I've ever seen. It's just a tragedy for everyone involved.' Ambulance Service Assistant Commissioner Stephen Zsombok said paramedics were traumatised by the scene. Shocked and heartbroken friends in her hometown of Hervey Bay, Queensland, sent tributes in the hours after the catastrophic accident The woman, 35, was driving in South Burnett, Queensland at 7.20pm when she pulled out to overtake a truck. Pictured: The wreckage of the truck The mother and three of her children, all aged under 10, were pronounced dead at the scene (pictured) 'These are very seasoned officers and they've explained this as tragic, extremely traumatic with people obviously involved in the car that's caught fire,' he said. 'Smoke, fire, our officers have gone though that dangerous scene to get to the child they were able to work on... Unfortunately that child died. 'Our hearts go out to the family and friends of those people.' Investigations are continuing and police are expected to remain on the scene for hours. The crash happened 7km outside Kumbia on Bunya Highway, south of the turn off to the Bunya mountains, toward Dalby. The string of killings echo a similar case in 2017 when more than 120 inmates were killed by other prisoners during fighting among rival gangs at jails Forty-two inmates were found hanged inside their cells at three different prisons in Brazil's Amazonas state on Monday. All 42 prisoners were found dead in the city of Manaus and showed signs of asphyxia, according to the Amazonas state prison agency. According to Brazilian outlet Exame, the deaths occurred by hanging and were reported at Antonio Trindade Criminal Institute (Ipat), the Puraquequara Prison Unit (UPP) and the Provisional Detention Center (CDPM I), all located in Manaus. The stunning death toll follows just one day after 15 other others died during fighting among prisoners at a fourth prison in the same city. The deaths echo a similar rampage in 2017 when more than 120 inmates died at the hands of other prisoners during fighting among rival gangs at prisons in northern states. In those brutal murders, many of those victims had their heads cut off or their hearts and intestines ripped out. Relatives of inmates react in front of a prison complex in the Brazilian state of Amazonas after prisoners were found strangled to death in four separate jails, according to the penitentiary department in Manaus, Brazil on Monday A woman hangs her head and cries outside of the Anisio Jobim Prison Complex on Monday Heartbroken and crushed relatives demanded answers outside of the three prisons A relative of an inmate reacts in front of a prison complex in the Brazilian state of Amazonas following the news of 42 dead inmates reported on Monday The kilings have led heartbroken families to swarm the jails, wailing and pleading for answers on the cause of the death of their loved ones. According to the State Department of Penitentiary Administration (Seap), the main lead in the investigation is factional disputes in the states, according to Exame. The Amazonas state prison agency said early Monday that several prisoners were 'found dead by hanging inside their cells'. Brazils justice and public security ministry said it was sending a federal task force to help local officials handle the situation. 'I just spoke with (Justice) Minister Sergio Moro, who is already sending a prison intervention team to the State of Amazonas, so that he can help us in this moment of crisis and a problem that is national: the problem of prisons,' Amazonas state Gov. Wilson Lima said. The prison agency said that the situation was 'under control' and that prisoners were under lockdowns. On Sunday, 15 inmates were killed during a riot at Manaus Anisio Jobim Prison Complex, where 56 prisoners died in the violence two years earlier. Killings took place at Antonio Trindade Criminal Institute, the Puraquequara Prison Unit (above) and the Provisional Detention Center On Sunday 15 prisoners were murdered at the Anisio Jobim Penitentiary (above) The news of the 15 inmate deaths led to protests outside the jail, with concerned family members asking about their loved ones on Sunday Relatives of inmates dismantle a barricade after a short protest to demand more information bout their loved ones, outside the Anisio Jobim Prison Complex in Manaus on Monday Sunday's clashes broke out during morning visiting hours where some of the inmates were stabbed with sharpened toothbrushes, while others had been strangled. Secretary Col. Marcus Vinicius de Almeida said an investigation has been opened to determine the cause of the fight on Sunday. 'Some died inside the cell with the bars closed,' Almeida said. 'Some deaths occurred by asphyxiation and others by perforations with the use of ... [sharpened] toothbrush.' Local authorities said prisoners began fighting among themselves before noon Sunday, and security reinforcements were rushed in and managed to regain control within 45 minutes. A woman asks police officers for more information outside the Anisio Jobim Prison Complex in Manaus, Amazonas state, Brazil on Monday Brazilian riot police prepare to invade the Puraquequara Prison facility after hordes or people came out demanding answers on Monday While authorities have not said whether gang wars were behind the latest blood-letting, several drug-trafficking and other criminal gangs in Brazil run much of their day-to-day business from prisons, where they often have wide sway. The 2017 slayings were largely gang-related, prompting authorities to increase efforts to separate factions and frequently transfer prisoners. Moro had to send a federal task force to help tame violence in Ceara state in January that local officials said was ordered by crime gang leaders angered by plans to impose tighter controls in the states prisons. Prisons in Brazil are severely overpopulated and dangerous. A New Zealander who was drunk and stoned when he rolled his ute on a West Australian country road, flinging a German woman from the vehicle and killing her, has been jailed for four-and-a-half years. Michael Brian Hilton, 33, drank up to nine beers plus a shot of spirits, and shared cannabis with Sarah Hurt before attempting to drive 32km from Perenjori Hotel to the Morowa farm where they worked and lived in November 2017. They planned to stay at the tavern overnight but decided to leave after a dispute with locals over Hilton's $2,100 Chase the Ace lottery win, the District Court of WA heard on Tuesday. Michael Brian Hilton and Sarah Hurt had been drinking beer at a pub in Perenjori, Western Australia, before he crashed the vehicle The father-of-one bought six more beers to drink as 'roadies' before departing but can't recall consuming them. Just 2km into their journey, he crossed onto the wrong side of the road, hit gravel, veered back onto the road then hit gravel again before rolling up to five times, leaving skid marks for 210 metres. Ms Hurt, 25, died at the scene. Hilton's blood alcohol reading, taken about five-and-a-half hours after the crash, was 0.095 but would have been higher if taken earlier. Hilton was driving on a Western Australia country road at 1.30am when he lost control and flipped his ute five times Judge Stephen Scott noted Hilton had three drink-driving convictions, the most recent about 19 months before the fatal crash when his blood alcohol reading was 0.109. 'Your record does you no favour,' Judge Scott said. He said it demonstrated Hilton had a 'cavalier attitude' to the dangers of drink driving and had not learnt his lesson. 'It should never have entered your mind to drive the vehicle,' the judge said. Hilton will be eligible for parole after serving two-and-a-half years behind bars. He will then be disqualified from driving for three-and-a-half years. A popular Brisbane gay bar with a history of cockroach infestations has once again been found guilty of eight counts of food safety breaches. Neil Joseph McLucas, 84, the owner of Sportsman Hotel in Spring Hill, was fined $20,000 in the Brisbane Magistrates Court after rats were found infesting the venue. Officers found rodent droppings in four parts of the hotel's kitchen in February 2018 along with a hole in the wall, The Courier Mail reported. Popular Brisbane gay bar with a history of cockroach infestations, the Sportsman Hotel,(pictured) has once again been found guilty of eight counts of food safety breaches Neil Joseph McLucas, 84, the owner of Sportsman Hotel in Spring Hill in Brisbane, was fined $20,000 in the Brisbane Magistrates Court after rats were found infesting the venue (stock image) Brisbane City Council prosecutor Charlotte Hoskin told the court the hole found in the wall which provided access and a 'harbour' for the rodents. 'The main concern is the missing portion of the wall, which creates a place for pests to harbour at the premises,' she said. 'But the fact that the rodent faeces was present indicates that regular cleaning wasn't being undertaken at the premises. If regular cleaning was being undertaken at the premises the problem could have been addressed earlier.' Most of the rodent faeces was found at ground level which by extension meant there was a risk faeces could have been dropped on counter tops at some time prosecutors claimed. The gay bar already had a history of cockroach infestations from 2005, 2008 and 2013. During those years the bar was issued with an improvement notice and told to address the cockroach problem. However in 2013 the venue was once again infested by cockroaches before being given an infringement notice in 2016. In the four-and-a-half decades that Mr McLucas has run the Sportsman Hotel there has never been a public complaint about cockroaches his lawyer Peter McCartney claimed. 'My client has no criminal conviction and no history tendered in relation to offences against the Food Act, my client has certainly taken all available steps to remedy the issue identified and hes aware of the seriousness of the charges and potential for harm to the public,' he said. Mr McLucas was fined $20,000 but was spared a recorded conviction. An Australian explorer who nearly died up Mount Everest was trying to reach the summit without oxygen. Gilian Lee was rescued by alpine experts from the Tibet Himalaya Expedition Company, who found him lying on the mountain unconscious at an altitude of 7,500m on Wednesday afternoon. Using ropes, and reportedly a yak, the group were able to carry him back to base camp, where he was rushed to hospital in a critical condition. Mr Lee is believed to have been planning to make it to the top without any oxygen. He had completed an 8000m summit, Manaslu, without oxygen before. Whether he made it to the top of Everest or not is unknown. Scroll down for video Gillian Lee (pictured) has been identified as the Australian climber who was found unconscious on Mount Everest on Wednesday. He had been attempting to climb the mountain without oxygen The man was rescued (pictured) at an altitude of 7,500 metres, on the northern slopes, about 7pm on Wednesday Four crew members from the Tibet Himalaya Expedition Company brought Mr Lee down part of the mountain on Wednesday evening (pictured) The news comes as ten climbers died at Everest in nine days, with locals blaming clogged up routes for the toll. Pictured: Climbers queue to stand on the summit of Everest on May 22 Mr Lee told Facebook friends his plans to ascend the mountain had been delayed by strong winds on May 9, and revealed why he chose to climb without oxygen. When one asked if he was tempted to use oxygen 'and just get it done', Mr Lee responded: 'NEVER! It would not be me doing it.' 'I might as well chop 50 per cent of the mountain height off,' he said. The day before he was found, Mr Lee had told Twitter followers he'd had a rough night due to a 'persistent chest infection'. By Thursday morning, the climber had been taken to Base Camp where he was then transported to hospital. A spokeswoman from The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said they are 'providing consular assistance to an Australian man hospitalised in Kathmandu' in a statement to Daily Mail Australia. 'For privacy reasons we are unable to provide further details,' they said. Mr Lee is now understood to be in a stable condition, with friends reporting his organs, which shut down during the ordeal, are beginning to function again, and he is expected to be out of ICU in the coming days. The news comes after ten climbers died on Everest in nine days, with locals blaming clogged up routes for the death toll. Climbers waiting in queues while climbing are sucking up mountaineers' limited oxygen supply and exposing them to the harsher winds for longer. The route up the mountain includes several large obstacles including a huge moving glacier near to base camp as shown in the map above The 10 climbers who have died on Everest in the past nine days May 16: Irish professor Seamus Lawless went missing on May 16 after reportedly falling. The search operation has since been called off and he is presumed dead. This week: Four Indians, one Austrian, one American and one person from Nepal died on Everest. Friday: Irishman Kevin Hynes, 56, passed away on the northern Tibet part of the mountain. The father-of-two died in his tent at 23,000ft on the descent after turning back before reaching the top. Saturday: Robin Haynes Fisher, 44, collapsed and died only 150m from the peak. Advertisement Hiking officials attributed most of the deaths to weakness, exhaustion and delays on the crowded route to the 29,030-foot (8,850-metre) summit. British climber Robin Haynes Fisher, 44, died in the 'death zone' - known for low oxygen levels - on his descent on Saturday after speaking of his worries about overcrowding on the world's highest mountain. In one of his last social media posts, he told of how he had changed his plans in order to avoid the 'fatal' crowds. He said: 'With a single route to the summit, delays caused by overcrowding could prove fatal so I am hopeful my decision to go for the 25th will mean fewer people. Unless of course everyone else plays the same waiting game.' Mr Fisher was described as an 'aspirational adventurer' who 'lived life to the full' in a statement from his family. Robin Haynes Fisher, 44, died in the 'death zone' of Mount Everest - known for its low oxygen levels and had previously told of his worries around overcrowding on the mountain Irish climber Kevin Hynes, 56, died in his tent at 7,000 metres in the early hours of Friday after turning back before reaching the summit. The father-of-two was part of a group from UK-based climbing company 360 Expeditions which was attempting to scale Everest. His death comes a week after Trinity College professor Seamus Lawless, aged 39 and from Bray, Co Wicklow, fell during his descent from the peak having achieved a lifetime ambition of reaching the summit. The search for Mr Lawless has been called off. An American climber, Austrian climber and two Indian climbers are also reported to have died. Seamus Lawless 39, from Bray, Ireland, fell during his descent from the peak having achieved a lifetime ambition of reaching the summit. Above: Mr Lawless after scaling Alaska's 20,000-ft Mount Denali last summer Mr Fisher was the tenth fatality on Everest in the current climbing season that ends this month and the 18th in Nepal's Himalayas in the same period. Record numbers of climbers are cramming on to the piste during the spring season's good weather. There are 41 teams with a total of 378 climbers permitted to scale the mountain during the spring climbing season in Nepal that begins around March. An equal number of Nepalese guides are helping them get to the summit. A heavily pregnant woman was allegedly thrown to the ground and repeatedly punched on a Sydney street as she walked to work. The woman, who is 30 weeks pregnant, was walking on Wentworth Avenue, in Surry Hills, Sydney, just before 9am on Tuesday when she was attacked in what police are calling an unprovoked attack. An off-duty policeman and a passer-by managed to intervene and stop the assault on the women, woman, 26. Police allege the woman repeatedly punched the pregnant woman in the head before pulling her hair and ramming her into a power pole. Scroll down for video A woman can be seen punching a heavily pregnant victim on Wentworth Avenue in Sydney's inner west on Tuesday morning in an alleged unprovoked attack The pregnant woman falls to the ground as a man walking past (in black) can be seen intervening to wrestle the alleged attacker away from the victim Security footage shows the pregnant woman clutching her stomach as she falls to the ground. She was then helped to safety by a Good Samaritan who was walking past. Her alleged attacker, 28, was then restrained by an off-duty probationary police officer who was also on the scene. The alleged assailant was restrained by an off-duty probationary police officer (in purple) who happened to be walking past during the incident The woman was arrested and taken to Surry Hills Police Station where she was charged with assault. She was refused police bail and appeared in the Central Local Court on Tuesday, where she was remanded in in custody. The pregnant woman was taken to hospital for medical assessment. Senior Surry Hills Police have praised the actions of the passerby and intervening police officer. 'The civilian did not hesitate to leap to the rescue of the pregnant woman and we commend his bravery,' Detective Chief Inspector Adam Johnson said. 'We would also like to praise the swift response of the probationary constable who saved the woman from further harm.' Amazing footage of Queen Victoria has been unearthed after being discarded for decades in an archive at a New York museum. It shows the monarch being greeted by dignitaries on a trip to Ireland in 1900 just one year before she died in what is believed to be the last time she was caught on camera. In the crisp black and white footage, Victoria, who appears to be wearing sunglasses, smiles as she is handed a huge basket of flowers by two girls, who curtsy as they approach her. She is also seen holding an umbrella which she seems to be using to shade herself from the sun. The film was discovered by British Film Institute curator Bryony Dixon at the New York Museum of Modern Art, who said she was stunned when she came across it. Footage has been unearthed at the Museum of Modern Art in New York of Queen Victoria visiting Ireland in 1900, pictured The monarch is seen sitting in a carriage, wearing what appear to be sunglasses and smiling, in contrast to her usual serious appearance The film is believed to be the last time she was caught on camera before her death a year later Ms Dixon said: 'I nearly fell off my chair because I'd never seen Victoria in close-up before. 'It is completely unique because you can see the Queen's face for the first time properly since 1900, since this was shown.. ...you can see her expressions, you can see her in movement, rather than just as a stiff portrait or a still photograph.' She added it the footage 'humanises' the monarch because it shows her smiling instead of the stoic expression she often displayed in official portraits throughout her 63-year reign. Ms Dixon said: 'It's very rare to see her smiling. She doesn't in any of her portraits, so it humanises her, I think, for the first time.' She added: 'Queen Victoria was always very up to date with technology and she was interested in art. 'She was interested in photography in particular so here, instead of a posed photo or painting, we see her in movement.' Queen Victoria paraded through Dublin with a royal entourage, pictured. She was a controversial figure in the country and was felt to have done little to have helped the Irish during the 1840s famine Huge crowds of people turned out to see the monarch on her visit to Dublin in 1900, pictured left and right. It was her first visit since 1861 The smiling footage comes as a new exhibition on the Isle of Wight has also highlighted the 'stiff and proper' monarch's softer side. Was Victoria 30 years ahead of her time with her sunglasses? How the Queen wore tinted lenses later in life after developing sensitivity to the sun One of the most striking parts of the Queen Victoria footage is that the monarch appears to be wearing sunglasses during her trip to Dublin in 1900 But the shades we know today did not become popular until the 1930s after American Sam Foster first mass produced celluloid sunglasses in 1929. Experts say Queen Victoria was actually wearing spectacles with tinted lenses because she developed sensitivity to the sun in her later years. A BFI spokesperson said: Queen Victoria developed bad sun sensitivity and in all the footage seen of her in her old age she is always seen under a parasol to protect herself. But most of the footage of her that exists is grainy and this is the first time weve been able to see her clearly enough to see the glasses. They are not the sunglasses we know but rather lenses that were tinted to shield her eyes. This early form of sunglasses had actually been in circulation since the 1700s after scientists experimented with tinted lenses. 18th century optician and scientist James Ayscough began producing spectacles with blue and green lenses in the 1750s, believing they could correct vision problems. By the 1800s, brown-tinted lenses were becoming common to protect sensitive eyes, particularly among wealthy elderly people. Advertisement English Heritage are highlighting the nude sculptures and a painting of bathing maidens which Victoria and Prince Albert gave each other in a display at Osborne House, the couple's palatial holiday home on the Isle of Wight, to celebrate the 200th anniversary of their births. The researchers say it proves the pair shared a 'passionate' private life despite their prim public personas. Michael Hunter, curator at Osborne, said: 'Queen Victoria may be remembered as the mourning widow in black, but these gifts show a different side to her personality. 'She was open to nudity and the sensuous, more open than Albert who perhaps surprisingly was the more prudish of the pair.' For example, Victoria bought artist Franz Xaver Winterhalter's Florinda, a painting of semi-nude women preparing to bathe, for one of Albert's birthdays, and it was her wish that it should hang directly opposite their writing desks at Osborne, where it remains today. And when Albert commissioned a statue of himself as a Greek warrior for Queen Victoria's birthday in 1844, she wrote in her journal that it was 'very beautiful'. Victoria was born in 1819 to Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Strathearn, the fourth son of King George III. Both the Duke and the King died in 1820, and Victoria was raised under close supervision by her mother, Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld. She inherited the throne at the age of 18, after her father's three elder brothers had all died, leaving no surviving legitimate children. Victoria married her first cousin Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha in 1840 and they had nine children. They married their offspring into royal and noble families across the continent, earning Victoria the nickname 'the grandmother of Europe'. But after Albert's death in 1861, she retreated from public appearances and became known for wearing black and living in mourning. Victoria retreated from public appearances following the death of husband Prince Albert, pictured together in 1861, and 'lived in mourning' However she remained popular throughout her reign and had Golden and Diamond Jubilees that saw huge public celebrations. She was the longest-serving monarch in the UK at 63 years and seven months until Queen Elizabeth II broke the record in September 2015. Queen Victoria died in January 1901 and was succeeded by her eldest son, Edward VII. A flight attendant has slammed a man who claimed he was 'fat shamed' by being forced to move seats on board a Qantas flight from Melbourne to Brisbane. Airline employee Mark slammed Darren Beales and said there was no reason to kick up 'a stink' and that staff were abiding by Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) regulations. 'It's happened to me a lot, it happens very regularly when people hop in that exit,' he told 3AW. 'It's not to say they're that large or they need an extension seat belt it's [what] CASA and the rules and regulations go by. 'I don't know really why he decided to kick up a stink about this issue.' Darren Beales, 36, was travelling on a Qantas flight when he claims he was 'fat shamed' by a flight attendant Mr Beales, 36, has said it was not the rule but how Qantas staff went about enforcing it. On May 17, Mr Beales was forced to walk from his booked seat in the exit row of a plane to another seat five rows back, and told by a flight attendant he should 'book two seats for himself next time'. He says the comment made him feel 'belittled', and likened his stroll to a new seat on the plane to a 'walk of shame'. 'I felt very low and embarrassed,' he told Daily Mail Australia. 'Everyone was seated and it was a pretty full plane. I got moved back, this guy took my spot and I took his. 'Everyone was looking at me trying to work out what was happening. 'Walking down the lane way, you feel like you're doing the walk of shame.' Mr Beales was travelling to meet one of his online friends for his birthday, and says the incident on board his flight made him spend the next two days unable to concentrate on anything but how he would board his flight back home. He says there is more to him than his appearance, and wishes people could see past the numbers on a scale. 'People out there, they don't know me,' he said. 'They only see the way I look - they don't know me by walking in my shoes, they don't know what I do for the community. 'I don't see those people out there helping the community like I do. The world has just gone to hell.' Mr Beales says someone else had booked his airline ticket for him, and simply asked if he wanted extra leg room, to which he had readily agreed. This was his first time sitting in the exit row. The Geelong man said he passed the first ticket inspection without a problem, but when he showed his ticket to the flight attendant inside the plane, was told there was an issue. The attendant began to direct him to the correct aisle when she realised he was in an exit row and said he simply would not be allowed to sit there. 'She said sit down in the seat you were allocated, and when everyone is seated we will get you up and put you in a different seat,' he explained. After everyone had boarded the plane, Mr Beales said the woman returned with an extender belt and moved him five rows back on the plane. 'She came down with an extender belt and said can you move to this location, and the other guy was there, so I had to get behind the guy and he sat in my seat and I sat in his,' he said. Mr Beales said he felt 'belittled and small' during the ordeal. The 36-year-old has been big his whole life and says he often does not leave the house because of the abuse he receives over his size Mr Beales was placed in an aisle seat with a vacant seat by his side. Incredibly, the flight attendant even recommended he purchase himself two seats next time. 'She came back to me [after I had moved] and said "it's against airline regulations that anyone who requires aid or an extended seat belt" [can sit in the exit row],' he said. 'She said next time you might want to buy a second seat, we will give it to you half price. 'All I wanted was the leg room so I could stretch out. I didn't need a second seat - it was a bit squishy but I had to make do. 'I got the seating there for leg room, not for the extra space. An extra chair wasn't required.' Mr Beales said he did not agree with Qantas's policy, which dictates anyone needing a seat belt extender can not fly in the exit row, but he was most hurt by the way the flight attendant addressed the issue. 'She said all this to me when I got on the plane - she didn't pull me aside before I sat down and said I just need to briefly talk to you,' he said. 'I felt very belittled and so small.' Mr Beales said had there been a crisis on board, he would have helped. Qantas has defended moving Mr Beales, explaining the airline has a policy that dictates anyone who requires an aid such as a seatbelt extender must not be seated in an exit row. A spokeswoman for the airline told Daily Mail Australia: 'CASA provides guidance to airlines on the criteria for appropriate passengers to be seated in exit rows.' 'If passengers are unable to meet this criteria airlines including Qantas will ask passengers to change seats,' she said. Mr Beales said he was refunded $120 for the extra money he paid for his exit row, but says he has been told his complaint against the flight attendant would be dealt with internally, and he is unlikely to hear about a resolution. A man who raped and kidnapped a British backpacker in January 2017 has been jailed for 10 years. Marcus Allyn Keith Martin forced 22-year-old Elisha Greer to drive 1,500km through the Queensland outback at gunpoint while being beaten and raped for weeks. The pair had met during a dance party at Kuranda in Far North Queensland and the Cairns District Court heard they formed an intimate relationship immediately. Within just two weeks, Crown Prosecutor Nathan Crane said the relationship became abusive. Mr Crane said Martin beat the woman regularly, raped her and had cut up her passport before driving far into the outback in what he called a 'harrowing' ordeal. Scroll down for video Marcus Allyn Keith Martin has been jailed for 10 years for raping and kidnapping British backpacker Elisha Greer Elisha Greer's adventure-of-a-lifetime backpacking around Australia turned sour after she met Marcus Martin 'He threw away her birth control pills so she would never leave him because she would have his child,' Mr Crane said. He said Martin's 'desire to control and isolate the victim' led to the road trip, ABC reported. 'She feared she would be murdered,' Mr Crane said. 'She tried to get the attention of other road users as they would drive along and also other service station customers to no avail.' Ms Greer, whose disappearance made headlines around the world, was eventually rescued five weeks later after a petrol station worker spotted her looking 'like a zombie in a state of shock' and called police. In an interview with Sunday Night earlier this month, Ms Greer recalled the horrific ordeal, explaining she was forced to drive the car with a gun to her head. Ms Greer had been dating Martin for two weeks when he turned violent, and raped her before kidnapping her and forcing her into the outback The Australian man forced her to drive for five days before she was dramatically rescued by police TIMELINE OF HORROR 2017 ROAD TRIP JANUARY 26 Ms Greer meets man, 22, at a 'bush doof' party in Cairns FEBRUARY The 21-year-old tourist was raped in a Cairns hotel room MARCH 1-5 The woman was forced to drive the suspect as they travelled south. She was beaten and repeatedly raped during this time MARCH 5 Ms Greer was rescued after being pulled over by police. The man was arrested and charged Advertisement Ms Greer met Martin in Cairns on 26 January, 2017 at an outdoor dance party, known as a 'doof'. Ms Greer said Martin seemed normal when their relationship began. 'Yeah he seemed fun, he didn't seem like a psycho,' she said. At the time, friends said the backpacker appeared to be under her attacker's 'spell'. Within days the relationship began to sour as he became 'obsessive and clingy.' Martin raped Ms Greer in a hotel room in Cairns before kidnapping her. From March 1, he made her drive south for five days before the case culminated in the regional town of Mitchell. Ms Greer had been driving a white Mitsubishi Pajero through Mitchell when she stopped at a petrol station to fill up. The service station attendant, Beverley Page, remembered her being in a 'state of shock when she came in, almost zombie like'. The attendant said she had tears streaming down her face and was unable to pay for the fuel. Pictured: Ms Greer after she was saved from Martin's clutches Ms Greer was rescued after a service station attendant followed their car when she was unable to pay for petrol The attendant had decided to follow the car to see if something was wrong, but called police immediately when Ms Greer took off without paying. A dramatic rescue took place hours later when police pulled over the four-wheel drive, finding the distraught and badly beaten Ms Greer at the wheel. An inspection of the car revealed her captor hiding in the back. Martin was arrested and charged before pleading guilty in October last year to three counts of rape and one count of deprivation of liberty. He earlier pleaded guilty to supplying dangerous drugs, willful damage, assault occasioning bodily harm and strangulation. Prosecutors discontinued ten other charges of rape, cruelty to animals, and torture. In an interview with Daily Mail earlier in the month, Ms Greer revealed her memory was a 'bit fuzzy' after surviving the ordeal. 'Even now, I have gaps in my memory. My friends will be talking about something we did recently, and I'll say 'I wasn't there', and they say, 'Yes you were'. It's odd.' Despite her trip of a lifetime two years ago ruined by the terrifying ordeal, she hopes to return to Australia one day. 'I'd love to live here. It's one of the nicest countries I've ever been to,' Ms Greer said. 'Every country has its own psychos.' In an interview with Daily Mail earlier in the month, Ms Greer revealed her memory was a 'bit fuzzy' after surviving the ordeal. 'Even now, I have gaps in my memory. My friends will be talking about something we did recently, and I'll say 'I wasn't there', and they say, 'Yes you were'. It's odd.' Mr Greer explained she'd always imagined being able to fight off an attacker, but terror took over. 'I probably could have taken him out, if I'd tried. But he was still stronger than me. I was scared. I just wanted it to be over.' 'Where would I have gone? He took my passport, my phone. He had the car. In my head, the best thing to do was go along with him and that way Id get away.' Kissing and hugging people when you greet them has been branded as awkward and not a 'traditionally British' thing to do. Discussing whether or not the UK's exit from the European Union would mean the end of the double kiss, Good Morning Britain presenter Richard Madeley said it was something that started as we were just 'copying the Europeans'. This is while journalist Ellen Scott felt it was unhygienic saying she would prefer a wave rather than any physical contact and said that French and Italian people can pull off the kiss, while Brits can't. Richard said that sometimes not knowing what to do can lead to awkward situations. Ellen Scott (left) said she would prefer a wave, while Christine McGuinness (right) said we shouldn't be encouraging people to stop hugging Ellen, who is the lifestyle editor at newspaper Metro, said: 'If I can get in there first I will stick out a hand for a handshake or even better just a wave waving is great, usually Im too late and they will lean in for a kiss and it will be awkward.' 'Ive always been less touchy feely but there have been too many times where I have gone in and ended up kissing someones ear and its just incredibly awkward. 'I think with men and women there is also the chance that a hand goes too low and it can be misconstrued. I would feel the same about women and its about respecting peoples boundaries.' This is while the Real House Wives of Cheshire's Christine McGuinness disagreed and said she felt a hug was a warm welcome and that sometimes, 'people just need a cuddle'. Richard Madely (pictured above) said he has stopped approaching women with a kiss to adapt to the way society is changing She added: 'I hug my accountant! I dont see a problem in it its a warm welcome, a nice thing to do.' Richard, who has been standing in for Piers Morgan this week, said he grew up at a time when British people did not kiss when they met and said when it started to happen it 'felt off'. 'We were copying other Europeans, its not a naturally British thing to do.' Ellen agreed with the 63-year-old and said: 'British people are naturally awkward. French and Italians can pull off a cheek kiss, British people cant.' Charlotte suggested that you could catch more germs from a handshake than from going in for a kiss She also said she would dread a meeting with Europeans as she would be worried they would go in for the double kiss, but highlighted that she would respect it as it is something which is part of their culture. Suggesting an alternative to the double kiss, Charlotte Hawkins asked whether or not Ellen felt there should be a 'movement started' to encourage people to shake hands rather than kiss. Ellen stated that it was personal preference and says she feels the handshake is a base every one is comfortable with. However, Richard highlighted how the close contact with other could lead to 'unpleasant experience and referenced Jean Claude Junker and his greetings. Jean-Claude Junker has previously been criticised for the way he greets people, left with Spanish finance minister Elena Salgado and right with Swiss politician Sommaruga Mr Juncker kisses Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier as talks with Theresa May came to an end in December 'Supposing Junker would totter in here after a heavy morning and come up to you and as you would say wreaking of booze, you wouldnt want that in your space?' Christine said that if people are uncomfortable with a kiss as a greeting, then it's up to them to say. 'I dont think we should encourage the rest of the nation to not hug. I cant imagine seeing friends and family and not going and putting my arm around them and giving them a kiss. 'People I have met on a first occasion, I would still go over and just do one kiss, I dont like the double kiss I think that does get awkward, I would go right and arm around.' Richard said that as a man he has now stopped going in for the kiss with female acquaintances as he thinks we need to be 'sensitive to social changes'. Ellen and Christine has opposing views on the top, with Christine saying she couldn't imagine not embracing someone when she met them 'I now dont lean in to a woman to do the mwah mwah but if she leans in to me I will respond but I dont initiate it.' In response to this Ellen said: 'It's definitely a gender thing, I have been at meetings where all the men will get handshakes and then they will get to me and do a cheek kiss it just feels very odd and a bit off.' Richard poked fun at Ellen and mocked her feelings towards hygiene, saying 'you wont catch anything'. This is while Charlotte quoted a study and said that you can catch more germs from a handshake than a hug. There's good news for those already missing the warm weather and in need of a sunshine soaked winter escape. As temperatures plummet along Australia's east coast and winter just days away, airfares have been slashed to many popular holiday destinations from, both here and abroad, including North Queensland, Hamilton Island, Los Angeles and Hawaii. For those not looking to jetset overseas, Qantas has launched a massive Queensland sale on flights booked before next Monday. Flights are from $99 one way with cheap flights to travel hot spots such as the Gold Coast and Hervey Bay (from $105), Brisbane ($109) and the Sunshine Coast ($119.) Cairns in Far North Queensland is a popular destination in winter to soak up the sun If a tropical North Queensland escape sounds appealing, an escape to Cairns or nearby Port Douglas is just $109 one way from Brisbane or $159 from Sydney. Travel dates vary between deals. Qantas will add an extra 300 seats on flights to Hamilton Island from Brisbane and Sydney between July and September. The extra seats have been made possible by adding one extra return service from Brisbane and upgrading to larger aircraft on some days. Fares currently start from $139 one-way from Brisbane. Qantas will increase the number of seats on flights to Hamilton Island (pictured) this winter 'We know there is already strong demand from customers travelling to the Whitsundays both in winter and over the school holidays,' Qantas Domestic chief executive Andrew David said in a statement. 'Our existing flights are very popular. 'We're pleased to offer more seats to the region and competitive fares, particularly at a time when many of the resorts are reopening after the devastation of Cyclone Debbie. 'This additional capacity will allow more holidaymakers to fly to Hamilton Island and explore everything this beautiful part of the world has to offer. With return flights less than $1000, you can ride San Francisco's famous cable cars For those planning a US escape, Air New Zealand has slashed prices on return deals to Los Angeles, San Francisco and Houston who those who book before June 14. For those flying from Melbourne a ticket to any of those three cities is just $913 return, $929 from Sydney and $935 from Brisbane. If you're after a holiday package with flights and accommodation covered, Expedia has some amazing Hawaii deals with savings of up to $900. Seven nights at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel on Waikiki Beach with flights start from $1621 if you stay between July 29-August 5, while a week at the OHANA-Waikiki-Malia-By-Outrigger during the same period is just $1449. A remote Irish island is offering up cheap housing and fast broadband in a bid to lure more Australians to its underpopulated mainland. Arranmore Island sits off the north-west coast of Ireland and boasts a population of 469 people. Though the island hopes to draw in more people with its affordable housing prices, which range from $129,000 for a one bedroom home to $400,000 for a three-bedroom cottage. What's more, the island has recently undergone a digital renaissance of sorts after high-speed broadband was installed across the 22 square kilometres of land last month. A remote Irish island is offering up cheap housing and fast broadband in a bid to lure more Australians to its underpopulated mainland (pictured, Arranmore Island) Arranmore Island sits off the north-west coast of Ireland and boasts a population of 469 people In an open-letter to Australians, the people of Arranmore said it hoped the internet would be enough to entice more overseas business people In an open-letter to Australians, the people of Arranmore said it hoped the internet would be enough to entice more overseas business people. 'Swap brown snakes and great whites for acres of open (and safe!) space. Fed up of overpacked beaches?' the letter reads. 'On Arranmore youll have secluded beaches all to yourself. The little pubs here dont have schooners, but they do have Guinness on tap that will blow them out of the water.' The open letter blamed its dwindling population on generational emigration and widespread hunger. 'Over the last 150 years, since the famine first hit Ireland, hundreds of our natives have made their way Down Under, in search of new opportunities,' the letter says. A bit about Arranmore Island Arranmore Island is located off the north-west coast of Ireland and spans a small 22 squared kilometres. According to 2016 data, only 469 people live on the island. Reliable piped water was only made available across the entire mainland between 1973-1975 Arranmore was the first offshore island in Ireland to be connected to the electrical grid in 1957. The island relies mostly on tourism to draw its revenue. Advertisement 'This mass exodus continued year after year. Traditional industries such as fishing and farming just aren't enough of a draw to keep young people here anymore. It's been a challenge to keep people here.' The open letter claimed its digital transformation had put the island on par with other business cities like Sydney and Melbourne. 'We wanted Aussies to be the first to know that Arranmore Island is now online and officially open for business. 'We're online right now if you'd like to chat about a project. In fact, we're online 24/7 these days. We've a lot of catching up to do.' The open letter even boasts a raft of skilled workers, anywhere from graphic designers to photographers. 'There's Jessie, a graphic designer. Neil, a mobile games developer. Matt, an app developer. And Elaine, a photographer. Plus, we've a wealth of skilled craftspeople who can manufacturer [sic] to order.' Though the island hopes to draw in more people with its affordable housing prices, which range from $129,000 for a one bedroom place to $400,000 for a three-bedroom cottage Nurse Jeanie Hawthorn, pictured outside Manchester Magistrates' court has been convicted of drink driving for the third time since 2003 A hospital theatre nurse was facing jail today after she got drank white wine and then fought with police as they arrested her for driving home while three times the alcohol limit - with three flat tyres on her car. Jeanie Hawthorn, 60 was so intoxicated, a police officer alerted by a concerned motorist found her kneeling on her front doorstep with a pair of camouflage shorts around her knees. During a scuffle, Hawthorn tried to stop the constable handcuffing her then when she was placed in a police van she called him and colleagues: 'f****** a*******' adding: 'How proud you must be - I am a good citizen!' Tests showed she had 103 micrograms of alcohol in 100 mililitres of breath. The legal limit is 35mg. It emerged the motorist who called police had witnessed Hawthorn repeatedly hitting the kerb with her Toyta Yaris, driving on the wrong side of the road and knocking down a pole before grinding to a halt outside her home in Handforth, near Wilmslow, Cheshire. At Manchester magistrates' court, Hawthorn was convicted of drink driving and resisting arrest. She claimed she had only drank half a bottle of wine, was not drunk and that the breathalyser machine was faulty. The court heard she had previous drink driving convictions from 2003 and 2008. The incident occurred at 9pm on August 23 last year after Hawthorn had been drinking wine at her sister's home. Motorist Paul Chandler told the court: 'A Toyota Yaris pulled out in front of me with no lights on when it was dark at the time. I thought it was dangerous so I flashed my lights and beeped my horn but I noticed the car clip the roundabout then the pavement so I decided to follow. The court heard Ms Hawthorn was driving her Toyota Yaris despite three of its tyres being flat An eyewitness called the police after witnessing the car swerving all over the road 'The vehicle was all over the road and not staying in one lane and I got my brother to ring 999. The vehicle was still swerving about and we kept a safe distance but it suddenly stopped in the middle of the road like it was about to do a U-turn. 'I stopped my car, got out and ran over to the vehicle, I opened the door and took the keys out. I took them out because of the irrational driving and that's when I noticed the car had flat tyres. The driver was an elderly lady, glasses, I could smell alcohol when I opened the door. 'She got out the car and I tried to stop her but I thought it was safer to let her stagger off.' Mr Chandler's brother Thomas said: 'We followed the car to try and stop it being driven dangerously. It was swerving and hit a pole and knocked it over hit the pavement a few times. She was travelling on the opposite side of the road and cars were coming and it made me and Paul panic. 'It came to a stop when she stalled it then couldn't move. I think she was unable to turn the car as the tyres were flat and I believe she had three flat tyres. My brother opened the door and took they keys, she was very vacant. She was wearing a grey fleece, glasses and she smelt of alcohol. She looked in her 60s. I informed her the police were coming and told her to stay with her car but she didn't.' PC Wayne Hilditch who was called to attend Hawthorn's home told the hearing: 'I saw a female knelt on the pathway outside the address. She had camouflage shorts around her knees and her grey fleece top was round her neck. She was clearly heavily intoxicated. 'Although she was knelt she was unsteady and she smelt of intoxicants and her eyes were glazed. As she came to her feet, she was unsteady. I made my presence known. As I stepped towards her she stepped away from me. I found this suspicious and arrested her as she was unfit to be driving this vehicle. 'She denied doing so and as I approached the defendant with handcuffs she kept moving her right hand behind her back so she was taken to the floor. I did this for my own safety as I thought that she could have had something behind her back and she was refusing to do what was asked of her. Ms Hawthorn, pictured, was told she must return to Manchester Magistrates Court next month for sentencing 'I was knelt down on one knee by the side of her and a neighbour did come out to assist with reapplying her shorts. But she kept shouting numerous bits of abuse at us, she called us 'f******* a********' and refused to provide a roadside sample. On the way to custody she called us 'f******* a********' and how proud we must be and that she was a good citizen.' Hawthorn did not give evidence but her sister Carol said: 'That evening she came round to my house for a visit and she had with her a bag and a bottle of wine. I was with her for a couple of hours or so. It wasn't a jolly get together - mum had just died and we had a sombre conversation - it wasn't an emotional evening but reflective.' 'I saw Jeanne walk up the path and she seemed fine and there's no way she could've consumed more than half a bottle of wine 'I wouldn't say she was worse for wear when she left. She wasn't drunk. She hadn't even finished the bottle as I put the remnants in the fridge. 'I think we were both worse for wear in terms of what's been happening with our family but not drunk. She certainly wasn't stone cold sober - nobody is after drinking wine - but there is nothing to suggest she was drunk. I didn't see her get into her car and I assumed she was walking home.' Defence lawyer Philip Lucas said of Hawthorn's arrest: 'Cuffs can be lawfully applied if violence is likely to be used but there must always be an objective reason to apply hand cuffs and police must consider the age, gender, size and fitness of the defendant. 'If Mike Tyson was sitting here rather than little Jeannie Hawthorn, then no one would be questioning the officer's decision. 'But if you consider the age and size and strength of the defendant, if one considers this then it was not necessary to apply the handcuffs.' Hawthorn who was bailed and given an interim driving ban will be sentenced next month. A Chinese airline passenger has been slammed after he was filmed demanding an airport worker kneel on the floor. The passenger insisted that the member of staff apologise to him and other travellers after their flight was said to have been delayed due to bad weather. 'You should kneel to apologise to us,' the passenger can be heard saying in the 24-second clip which is trending on social media. The unruly man has been criticised by web users after video of him accusing the airport worker went viral. The incident took place in Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport on Saturday The airport worker (far right) said he was willing to apologise but the passenger should not humiliate him. Other passengers who were waiting said: 'What would an apology achieve?' He repeatedly urged the worker to kneel down while pointing at him with his finger in an angry manner. The worker tried to defend himself. He said: 'I am a member of staff. I do carry out my responsibilities. But there is no need for you to humiliate me.' But the furious passenger claimed that kneeling was 'not humiliation'. He demanded: 'You must represent your company and apologise to us.' He then added: 'Kneeling shows sincerity.' Seeing the tensions rising, other passengers tried to ease the situation by saying: 'What would an apology achieve?' The incident took place in Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport on Saturday, airport staff confirmed to MailOnline. The passengers were waiting to board their flight from Zhengzhou to Shenzhen with West Air. The incident occurred on a flight from Zhengzhou to Shenzhen with budget airline West Air The budge airline is an affiliation to Hainan Airlines Group, the biggest privately owned airline company in China. It operates more than 70 domestic and international routes. A customer service representative from the Chongqing-based carrier told MailOnline that the carrier operated two flights from Zhengzhou to Shenzhen on that day and both were delayed due to adverse weather conditions. The first flight, PN6311, was postponed for nearly an hour and took off at 8:02pm. The second flight, PN6322, was postponed for nearly four and a half hours and took off at 2:30am the next day. The duration of the flight is two hours. The airline is investigating the matter and cannot confirm which flight caused the altercation as of writing. The worker was told to kneel down at Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (pictured) The passenger's behaviour has drawn waves of criticism from web users who urged the Chinese authority to punish him. On China's Twitter-like Weibo, one user wrote: 'Ban him from taking planes for the rest of his life, then get him to kneel if he wants the ban to be lifted.' Another commentator wrote: '[The delay] was caused by the weather, not the worker.' China has been penalising unruly travellers to raise the public awareness of travel etiquette and enforce its nation-wide social credit system. Travellers deemed 'uncivilised' by the authorities will be given a 'bad behaviour record' for up to 10 years, which is likely to restrict their future travelling and harm their social credit points. Since 2014, the country has blacklisted around 13 million 'untrustworthy' people and banned swathes from taking trains and planes. Diane Abbott today gave Jeremy Corbyn a shove towards formally backing a second EU referendum calling it 'the democratic thing to do'. The Shadow Home Secretary said a new vote on any Brexit deal must become Labour policy and she also urged the party to campaign to remain in the EU. She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'Now at minutes to midnight on these negotiations, the Tories plunged into their leadership contest so we get no sense out of them for a few months, we think it's important to foreground the People's Vote.' She added: 'There is no inherent contradiction between respecting the result of the referendum and having a People's Vote, not least because it's still not sure how a People's Vote would pan out'. Mr Corbyn is under huge pressure to back a new poll after Labour's electoral humiliation triggered a mutiny at the top of his party. He signalled he could be ready to commit to a second Brexit vote after his closest colleagues said it was the only way to stop Labour haemorrhaging support. Tony Blair predicted today that it is 'more likely now that we will have another referendum and more likely that therefore we will vote to stay in the European Union', and said the party needs to 'stop equivocating' on Brexit. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn (pictured leaving his London home yesterday) has told his MPs that the party is 'ready to support a public vote' on Brexit and Diane Abbott says she will campaign for remain This diagram shows the Brexit Party's dominance everywhere except London and Scotland This chart shows the parties' respective share of the vote, with Labour third and the Tories fifth Tony Blair today predicted there would be a second referendum and Britain would vote to remain in the EU Ms Abbott insisted Labour was 'moving towards a clearer line' on the issue. Tony Blair's former spin doctor Alastair Campbell is EXPELLED from Labour Alastair Campbell was today expelled from Labour after he admitted he had not voted for the party for first time in his life, in disgust at the party's stance on Europe Alastair Campbell was today expelled from Labour after he admitted he had not voted for the party for first time in his life, in disgust at the party's stance on Europe. Tony Blair's former spin doctor said he had backed Liberal Democrats at the European elections last Thursday because he wants to stop Brexit. Hitting back at Corbyn and his leadership he said: 'To all the Labour staff, MPs, peers and councillors who told me they were not voting Labour fear not; as I believe in loyalty to the tribe, your secrets are safe with me'. The Labour leadership threw him out of the party over his vote - but Mr Campbell will appeal saying Jeremy Corbyn was never expelled despite spending years voting against Labour in Parliament from the backbenches. He tweeted: 'Sad and disappointed to receive email expelling me from @UKLabour - particularly on a day leadership finally seems to be moving to the right place on Brexit, not least thanks to tactical voting by party members, including MPs, councillors and peers who back a people's vote. 'I was not intending to publicise this at this stage, but have had calls from friends in the Party telling me it is now widely known and likely to be leaked. I have been advised by lawyers with expertise in this field I have grounds for appeal against expulsion and shall do so'. Bob Ainsworth, defence secretary under Gordon Brown, is also set to be expelled after admitting to voting Green last week. He said: 'When you see a guy being expelled from the party for doing exactly the same as you've done, you stick your hands up and say: "I am Spartacus".' Advertisement 'I've always argued that it's perfectly possible that Leave would win again but we're supporting a People's Vote strongly now because it's the right thing to do and it's the democratic thing to do.' She went on: 'Our position is that ideally we want a general election - if we can't get a general election in time, we would support a People's Vote.' John McDonnell and Diane Abbott have both told their party leader that Labour must guarantee a new referendum under any circumstances in the wake of its European elections mauling. Party policy has been to push first for a general election and then back a second referendum only to stop a 'bad' or No Deal Brexit. Labour MP Lisa Nandy warned a second referendum 'would most likely result in a no-deal outcome', adding 'this could be the final breach of trust with that working-class electorate'. The MP for Wigan told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'Obviously in constituencies like Wigan you get very mixed views, you get different views like everywhere in the country, but to most people the idea of a second referendum just seems quite absurd. 'People were asked what they think, you can see from the results that we had here, that very few people have changed their minds and if there is a shift in this area of the country I think it's towards no-deal Brexit.' She added: 'I think we've got to wake up to the seriousness not just of what we're about to do to the Labour Party, but what we're about to do the country because I strongly suspect that if there is a second referendum people here would come out and vote in fairly large numbers and probably vote for no deal.' She went on: 'There is a huge frustration amongst Labour voters who voted Leave in towns like mine to see leading figures from the Labour Party out calling for a second referendum before there's been any serious attempt to implement the result of the first.' After Labour was pushed into third place nationally by the pro-Remain Liberal Democrats on Sunday night, former prime minister Tony Blair said he understood why. He said: 'I voted Labour. I said I was going to and I did although without any great enthusiasm frankly. But I did.' Asked what he would say to Alastair Campbell after he admitted voting Lib Dem he said: 'I understand why you did what you did. You wouldn't be the only person I know who voted Labour all their lives who didn't vote Labour in this election.' Asked what Labour should do: 'It should stop equivocating basically and come out to a clear position, basically. At that position should be in favour of going back to the people. But it should do so after we go through a proper process in parliament.' Mr Corbyn's colleagues have demanded an end to the ambiguity. In a dramatic intervention, Shadow Chancellor Mr McDonnell said: 'Our only option now is to go back to the people in a referendum.' Shadow chancellor John McDonnell (pictured) said Labour could unite the party and country by 'taking the issue back to people in a public vote' Last night, Mr Corbyn made what his aides described as a 'tonal shift' to his position. Squabbling at Change UK after new party gets just 4% of vote MPs from Change UK descended into public infighting yesterday after their disastrous election performance. The future of the pro-Remain party formed by breakaway Tory and Labour MPs was in doubt last night after it secured just 4 per cent of the vote and failed to win a single MEP. The failure to make an impact came in the face of a surge for the Liberal Democrats, who had a similar pro-EU message. Yesterday, Anna Soubry, the party's Brexit spokesman, accused its leader Heidi Allen of 'bizarre' behaviour for suggesting that their supporters engage in tactical voting. The former Tory minister said 'over 600,000 people went and voted for us, a genuinely new party' which was an 'extremely good' result, she claimed. But she told BBC Radio 4's Today: 'I think it is rather bizarre for an interim leader on the eve of a poll to tell people essentially not to vote for their party.' Former Tory Miss Allen insisted Change UK was 'down but not out' and should 'work with other right-minded parties like us that are pushing for Remain'. Advertisement In a letter to his MPs, the Labour leader said: 'It is clear that the deadlock in Parliament can now only be broken by the issue going back to the people through a general election or a public vote. We are ready to support a public vote on any deal.' The statement moved the party closer to fully committing to a second referendum, but Mr Corbyn will still face intense Labour pressure to back a so-called 'people's vote' without delay, in any circumstances and to campaign on the Remain side. The major obstacle to this remains his hard-Left allies such as powerful union boss Len McCluskey, who is vehemently against a second Brexit vote for fear of Labour being wiped out in the North. The party endured an appalling night on Sunday, finishing with just 14 per cent of the vote, losing control of London to the resurgent Lib Dems and seats to Nigel Farage's newly created Brexit Party in its pro-Leave heartlands. The Tory party was also humiliated by Mr Farage, finishing fifth in vote share and suffering one of the worst electoral nights in its history. Leadership candidates warned yesterday that the party must deliver Brexit by October or face oblivion. As both main parties were engulfed by the fallout from Sunday night's political earthquake: Mr Farage said he was ready to reshape politics at a general election, and would contest every seat, as his party demanded a seat at the Brexit negotiating table; Tory leadership contenders scrambled to promise to deliver Brexit ahead of the October deadline, with Dominic Raab making clear he was ready for No Deal; Environment Secretary Michael Gove said the party 'absolutely needs to deliver Brexit' and it would be his first priority if elected, while Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said there was an 'existential risk to our party' of not getting 'Brexit done'; The Liberal Democrats said they would use their second-place showing in the European elections to 'stop Brexit'; Change UK's future was thrown into serious doubt after the newly created party failed to gain a single MEP; SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon signalled she would push for a second independence referendum after winning in Scotland; A row broke out over whether pro-Remain or pro-Leave parties had collectively won more votes in the elections. Both main parties have hit the panic button after Sunday night's mauling, but Mr Farage said: 'In some ways, the Labour Party today are in more trouble than the Conservative Party.' The Conservative vote share slumped to around 9 per cent - thought to be its lowest in a national election since 1834 when the party took on its current name Until yesterday, Labour demands for a second referendum had been led by pro-Remain frontbenchers such as Sir Keir Starmer, Tom Watson and Emily Thornberry. But yesterday the calls came from two of Mr Corbyn's closest hard-Left colleagues, Mr McDonnell and Miss Abbott. Mr McDonnell acknowledged that Mr Corbyn wanted a general election rather than a referendum but said the reality was that this was unlikely. He said the country was facing the prospect of a 'Brexit extremist' becoming the next prime minister, meaning the UK faced the prospect of No Deal. 'Of course we want a general election,' he said. 'But realistically, after last night, there aren't many Tory MPs who will vote for an election it will be like turkeys voting for Christmas. 'Our best way of doing that [stopping a No Deal Brexit] is going back to the people in a referendum I think that's what our members want. Trade union boss Len McCluskey (pictured), an opponent of a second vote, demanded that Mr Corbyn stick to his existing position of trying to keep Leave and Remain supporters together 'We're saying quite clearly, if there can be a deal, great, but it needs to go back to the people. 'If it's a No Deal, we've got to block it and the one way of doing that is going back to the people and arguing the case against it because it could be catastrophic for our economy.' Mr McDonnell added: 'It's not just me saying that, it's Philip Hammond the Chancellor, it's others across the parties, and independent economists and I'm not willing to stand by and let my constituents lose their jobs and have their livelihoods undermined by this.' Asked if Labour now supported a referendum under any circumstances, he said: 'I think it is, yeah.' Miss Abbott, the Shadow Home Secretary, also weighed in, saying: 'When we come in third after the Brexit Party, that is a clue something is wrong with our strategy. We need to listen to our members and take a clearer line on a public vote.' But other hard-Left allies including Mr McCluskey, general secretary of the Unite union last night demanded that Mr Corbyn stick to his existing position of trying to keep Leave and Remain supporters together. Labour's bigwigs turn on each other after election wipeout Labour was in meltdown last night as the party tore itself apart over its Brexit policy after its European electoral humiliation. Jeremy Corbyn's party endured a night of disaster at the polls losing hundreds of thousands of votes in the Leave-supporting north and the Remain-backing south. They lost major northern strongholds such as Leeds, Sheffield and Bolsover and were pushed into second place to the Brexit Party even in the North East. In Remain-backing London, they ended up second behind the Liberal Democrats and lost Mr Corbyn's stronghold of Islington. The results sparked open warfare at the top of the party, with critics saying Labour did so poorly because it tried to appeal to both sides of the Brexit debate while pleasing neither. Labour lost control of its stronghold of Wales, coming third in its worst ever result there. And in Scotland, a resurgent SNP pushed the party into fifth place, sparking warnings that Labour will 'never recover' north of the border. The Conservatives suffered a humiliating 14.9 per cent loss in their 2014 vote share in last night's European election results Labour ended up third on the night with just 14 per cent of the vote, behind the Liberal Democrats on 20 per cent. Only ten Labour MEPs were returned, compared to the Lib Dems' 16. Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage said Labour's election results were in many ways worse than the Conservatives' because the party was being squeezed from both sides. He said: 'For the first time in over 100 years, the Labour Party has not won an election in Wales. 'In fact, they've been mightily trounced by the Brexit Party we won Wales quite handsomely by digging deep into the Labour vote. 'Our highest-scoring region 39 per cent of the vote was in the North East. And where did the vote come from? It came from the Labour Party. The same happened in Yorkshire. 'You've got these three big areas South Wales, the Midlands and the North where the majority of the 5 million Labour voters voted Brexit. In some ways, the Labour Party today are in more trouble than the Conservative Party.' Labour's poor results led to a debate over a second referendum and whether the party should promise one. The Scottish and Welsh Labour parties, and two major unions, demanded that Mr Corbyn backed a referendum in all circumstances. Unison's Dave Prentis said: 'If Labour is going to win the next election, it needs to understand that ambiguity and division aren't appealing. The country needs a radical Labour government, with properly-funded public services at its heart but it won't get that unless Labour has a clearer line on Brexit.' This map shows by council that the Brexit Party have topped polls in almost everywhere in England and Wales. The Tories have not topped in any council areas As the results flooded in on Sunday night, Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry and Brexit spokesman Sir Keir Starmer came out in support of a second vote. And deputy leader Tom Watson said: 'Following the disastrous EU election results, Labour urgently needs to rethink its Brexit position and realign with members and voters.' On the other side of the argument stood figures such as Ian Lavery, the party chairman and another close ally of Mr Corbyn. He tweeted: 'The country is now more polarised than ever. Very toxic, very unpleasant! 'UK Labour will never turn our backs on the 48 per cent or the 52 per cent. 'We will seek the real solutions that will heal society and bring together the 100 per cent.' The leader of the Unite union, Len McCluskey, said Labour's attempt to 'unite the nation' over Brexit was 'an honourable objective that must not be abandoned'. He added: 'This is the time to hold our nerve because the true prize is the very real possibility of a looming general election.' In a dig at Mr Watson, he said: 'Faced now with the serious prospect of a No Deal Tory prime minister, Labour must stay united and show the country that it is ready to lead. 'There are some rushing to advance other agendas but are doing so to undermine Jeremy Corbyn. They will be seen for what they are and never forgiven by the members.' Labour MPs also expressed their anger at the European election campaign. Peter Kyle, MP for Hove, said: 'Party staff did their level best, they are amazing. 'But their bosses who devised and led this campaign can never again be allowed near a campaign. Never. 'Our messaging was appalling, our promotional material lamentable. I feel the need to apologise to staff, activists and voters.' A light aircraft that crashed killing three Britons may have hit turbulence caused by a passing Airbus A350 coming into land in Dubai, a preliminary report states. William Blackburn, a pilot, David Phillips, an ex-RAF wing commander, as well as another Briton and a South African died on May 16 when their Diamond DA62 came down near Dubai Airport. The twin engine propeller plane may have encountered 'wake turbulence' generated by a Thai Airways A350, according to a statement by the Bureau dEnquetes et dAnalyses (BEA). The civil aviation agency cite video footage showing the smaller plane at 1,100 ft following the A350 - a 300-seater commercial jet - which was coming into the runway. The crashed aircraft, a Diamond DA62, pictured, may have encountered 'wake turbulence' and was seen following a Thai Airways Airbus A350 coming into land on May 16 at Dubai Airport Stock image of a Thai Airways Airbus A350 - the smaller plane was seen flying behind the commercial jet as it came into land at around 1,100 ft over the ground Wake turbulence manifests itself as wingtip vortices and jetwash - the latter refers to gasses propelled from jet engines creating volatile turbulence; the former to the trails of varying pressure left by a plane's wings, less chaotic but longer lasting. BEA's summary of their preliminary report simply states: 'A Diamond DA-62 aircraft, registration mark G-MDME, was involved in a fatal accident while on approach to runway 30L of Dubai International Airport for a ground navigation equipment inspection flight. 'Video footage showed the aircraft encountered possible wake turbulence at about 1,100 ft, following an Airbus A350, which landed on the parallel runway 30R.' Earlier this month Mr Blackman, from the Isle of Man, was described as a 'beautiful soul' by his family. He had told them just a few days before the crash: 'If I die in flight then at least I'll die doing what I love.' In a statement given to local station Manx Radio, the family said: 'We were blessed with the most beautiful soul and he touched so many hearts. 'We have all our amazing memories now to cherish, and so much support to get us through. The Island's community is just amazing. We have been lucky to have him in our lives.' The other named British victim, Mr Phillips, from Newcastle, served as an air traffic control examiner in the Air Force and had more than 3,000 hours of flying experience before he died. William Blackburn, a pilot from the Isle of Man, was described by his family as a 'beautiful soul' Mr Blackburn (centre, with his family) was described as 'a beautiful soul who touched many hearts', and who said that dying in a plane would mean 'dying doing what I love' Tributes to Mr Phillips - who was affectionately known as 'Spot' - were paid online, including by the 83 St Georges Squadron Air Training Corps. A spokesman for the corps wrote: 'It's with heavy heart that we have to inform you of the death of our Commanding Officer Flt Lt David Phillips. 'Our heartfelt condolences are with his family at this tragic time.' A third Briton and the South African who were killed have not been named. The crew, who were employed by Flight Calibration Services, based in Kent, were working to improve the runway at Dubai's airport when tragedy struck. Initial indications suggest the crash was the result of a technical malfunction, though an investigation is sill underway. The two-year-old aircraft had been operating out of the Middle East since October. Dubai's international airport is one of the world's busiest aviation hubs. David Phillips, a former RAF wing commander, was identified as one of the three Britons killed in the UAE earlier this month when their plane crashed near Dubai Airport David Phillips was an air traffic control examiner, served as a Commanding Officer in the Air Training Corps and had more than 3,000 hours of flying experience A Foreign Office spokeswoman said: 'We are working closely with the Emirati authorities following reports of a small aircraft crash in Dubai.' US engineering and aerospace company Honeywell said it had hired Flight Calibration Services and the DA62 plane for work in Dubai. In a statement, Honeywell said: 'We are deeply saddened by todays plane crash in Dubai, and our heartfelt condolences are with the victims families.' Thai Airways have not responded to MailOnline requests for comment. Advertisement The heart wrenching moment a blonde seal was strangled by a fishing net on the Norfolk coast has been captured on camera. IT consultant, Geoff Smith, 54, captured the photograph which illustrates the reality of plastic pollution. The seal can be seen with a thick blue net wrapped around its neck, seemingly impossible for the seal to remove this alone. This is the tragic scene of a blonde seal who has been caught in a plastic fishing net at Horsey Gap on the Norfolk Coast The animal appeared to have red blotches around his neck, possibly caused by the net cutting into its flesh Mr Smith contacted seal rescue charity Friends of Horsey Seals, but the animal was able to escape into the sea, avoiding volunteers who wanted to cut him free from the net Mr Smith contacted seal rescue charity Friends of Horsey Seals to inform them of the seal - but the mammal managed to give volunteers who tried to catch him the slip, and disappeared back into the sea. Mr Smith, from Ipswich said: 'You could see that the seal's neck was cut and that the seal had grown since getting tangled in the netting. Photographer Geoff Smith said: 'Mr Smith, from Ipswich said: 'You could see that the seal's neck was cut and that the seal had grown since getting tangled in the netting. 'It's a tragedy that waste has been a blight on wildlife caused by our carelessness and laziness, both of which can be avoided by raising awareness and educating people and industry on the real consequences of their actions.' 'It's a tragedy that waste has been a blight on wildlife caused by our carelessness and laziness, both of which can be avoided by raising awareness and educating people and industry on the real consequences of their actions.' David Vyse, from Friends of Horsey Seals, said: 'The injured seals tend to stay close to the sea as they are limited with movement or stay inside the colony for safety. 'When a human comes close, it will either quickly enter the sea, or move with the colony to 'safety'. 'We have spotted this seal a few times since the photo was taken in February, and it seems to be eating well. 'We will try our very best to catch him and remove the plastic when the conditions are right, causing minimum disruption to the seal colony. Plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds are to be banned in England from next year to tackle pollution and protect the environment. Environment Secretary Michael Gove has confirmed a ban on the supply of the items from April 2020 after a consultation revealed 'overwhelming' public support for the move. Exemptions will allow those who need to use plastic straws for medical reasons or a disability to buy them from registered pharmacies or request them in restaurants, pubs and bars, and the use of plastic-stemmed cotton buds for medical and scientific purposes. Food and drink outlets will not be able to display plastic straws or automatically hand them out. It is estimated that 4.7 billion plastic straws, 316 million plastic stirrers and 1.8 billion plastic-stemmed cotton buds are used each year in England. Around 10 per cent of cotton buds are flushed down toilets, often ending up in waterways and oceans, the Government said. It is hoped millions of pounds could be saved annually on clean-up efforts of used plastics. Mr Gove said: 'Urgent and decisive action is needed to tackle plastic pollution and protect our environment. These items are often used for just a few minutes but take hundreds of years to break down, ending up in our seas and oceans and harming precious marine life. 'So today I am taking action to turn the tide on plastic pollution, and ensure we leave our environment in a better state for future generations.' It is estimated there are more than 150 million tonnes of plastic in the world's oceans and every year one million birds and over 100,000 sea mammals die from eating and getting tangled in plastic waste. The announcement follows the Government's ban on microbeads and the 5p charge on single-use plastic bags, which has seen distribution by major supermarkets drop by 86 per cent. Surfers Against Sewage chief executive Hugo Tagholm welcomed the ban. He said: 'Stopping the production and distribution of these single-use plastic menaces will prevent them from polluting beaches nationwide. It's a really positive and bold step in the right direction in the battle against plastic pollution. 'It is also helps further drive plastic-free options and alternatives for the public so they can truly make more sustainable choices in their daily lives.' A woman has died after falling 70ft from the rooftop bar of a 255-a-night hotel. Emergency services were called to The Varsity Hotel in Cambridge at around 5.35pm on Bank Holiday Monday. The woman fell from the terrace of the hotel, which has welcomed celebrities including David and Victoria Beckham and member of the royal family through its doors. The rooftop bar of the 255-a-night hotel (pictured) looks out across Cambridge It remains unclear if the woman was using the bar, but detectives said they are not treating her death as suspicious It remains unclear if the woman was using the bar, but police are not treating her death as suspicious. A spokeswoman for Cambridgeshire Police said: 'We were called at 5.35pm on May 27 with reports of a sudden death at The Varsity Hotel in Thompsons Lane, Cambridge, after a woman fell from the hotel roof. 'At this stage the death is not believed to be suspicious.' In 2016, a top City headhunter was found dead in the penthouse suite of the Varsity Hotel. The woman fell from the terrace of the hotel on Bank Holiday Monday Daniel Barry Mortin, 27, was found at the Varsity Hotel by staff who were concerned that he had failed to check out in 2016 Daniel Barry Mortin, 27, was found lying on a bed by staff who were concerned that he had failed to check out. The Cambridge Maths graduate, from Royston, Hertfordshire, was pronounced dead on January 20, 2016 by a paramedic. His cause of death was recorded as hanging, an inquest heard. Celebrities including Ralph Fiennes, Rachel Weisz, Colin Firth and Jeremy Irons have also stayed at the hotel. David and Victoria Beckham were snapped by members of the public in the rooftop bar in May, 2016. Advertisement A memoir by Nazi Foreign Minister Joachim von Ribbentrop's son has been released in English for the first time and includes unseen photos of the author growing up in London before the Second World War. Rudolf von Ribbentrop went to the exclusive Westminster School while his father was Hitler's ambassador in London from 1936 to 1938. The elder von Ribbentrop was one of Hitler's closest henchmen and rose to become the Third Reich's Foreign Minister before being executed at Nuremburg in 1946 for helping orchestrate the Holocaust. His son went on to fight on both the Eastern and Western fronts and won the Iron Cross - before becoming a wine merchant after the war. He is still alive aged 98 today. His biography was first released in 2008 in German but has now been translated into English. Inside it several images, many of which have not been seen before, show the Ribbentrop's jovial-looking gatherings with Hitler and the whole family posing for photos. Ribbentrop with Hitler and his children, Adolf and Ursula, enjoying a coffee in 1939 just before the beginning of the Second World War. He became a close confidant of Hitler, despite many Nazi party members dislike of him, because they thought him superficial and lacking in talent Joachim Von Ribbentrop (centre) with his children Adolf and Ursula and his wife, the Fuhrer and top ranking Nazis. As the war went on, Ribbentrop's influence waned. Because most of the world was at war with Germany, the Foreign Ministry's importance diminished as the value of diplomacy became limited. Far right: Luftwaffe commander Hermann Goring and a member of staff Rudolf von Ribbentrop pictured during his time in London in 1936 (left). He spent a year at Westminster School after travelling to the UK while his father was ambassador in London. Right: Von Ribbentrop pictured in his Nazi uniform in 1943. He was highly decorated having been injured in several battles on both the Western and Eastern fronts Rudolf accompanied his father to Britain when appointed Ambassador to the Court of St James in 1936. He spent a year at Westminster School in London. When the Second World War broke out in September 1939, he joined the SS Infantry Regiment Deutschland in Munich. In October he was transferred to occupied Czechoslovakia, where he served in the 11th Company of his field regiment. His Company fought in the invasion of France. Von Ribbentrop was wounded in action and was awarded the Iron Cross Second Class. Ribbentrop also distinguished himself in the Finnish campaign against the Soviet Union and was awarded the Finnish Freedom Cross Fourth Class. In 1943 he was shot through the lung at the Third Battle of Kharkov. He continued to rescue wounded soldiers and refused to be taken to a hospital, and was awarded the Iron Cross First Class for his courage. Approximately a year after Hitler's death by his own hand, Rudolf Von Ribbentrop would also watch his own father hang after he was executed following the Nuremberg Trials, convicted on four counts including deliberately planning a war of aggression and war crimes. The foreign minister's son writes plainly about the court's decision to sentence his father to death, but laments he never had the chance to say goodbye and that the court was rigged. 'Prior to the verdict, I was brought to Nuremberg for a few days and confined to a cell in the witness wing, to be able to talk to my father for about ten minutes every day through a netting, with guards on either side,' Rudolf Von Ribbentrop explained. 'Actually, we were both aware of what the verdict would be; not because Father was guilty in the court's sense, but because the court had been so structured as to make unequivocally sure that the process taken was directed to capital punishment. 'After pronouncement of the verdict, which, as we both expected, was a death sentence, I was not given an opportunity to say goodbye to my father. 'After my visit to Nuremberg and the talks I had there, I made a note for myself of the names of the accused who, in view of the conduct of the trial, could expect a death sentence. My prediction was absolutely right.' Despite Joachim Von Ribbentrop's alleged 'dreamy' disposition, his son was proud of my his father's conviction and his ability to argue with Hitler. 'If he was not 'eliminated', as he used to say about the probable death sentence, father wanted to write his memoirs,' continued Rudolf Von Ribbentrop. 'I asked him if he did so expressly to bring out his divergences of view from Hitler's. My main thought about this was of his efforts to avert the war with the Soviet Union. 'However, during the trial, father had consciously refused to expose his disparities with Hitler before the tribunal of the victors. Left: Hitler and Ribbentrop standing in front of the Fuhrer's Special Train, around 1941. Right: Ribbentrop and Hitler meeting with Mussolini. Ribbentrop was among the few who could meet with Hitler at any time without an appointment, unlike Goebbels or Goring Joachim Von Ribbentrop stands behind Hitler in 1941. He was one of Hitler's closest confidantes. According to insiders Ribbentrop acquired the habit of listening carefully to what Hitler was saying, memorizing his ideas, and then later presenting Hitler's ideas as his own Joachim von Ribbentrop with his son Rudolf in May 1940 after the outbreak of hostilities in Western Europe. From 1939 to 1943, Ribbentrop attempted to persuade other states to enter the war on Germany's side or at least maintain pro-German neutrality 'In one of his last letters to Mother (dated 5 October 1946) he wrote: 'I did not want at this trial to speak about my grave disputes with Adolf Hitler. The German people would then rightly say: 'What sort of a man is that who was Adolf Hitler's Foreign Minister and now turns against him for selfish reasons, before a foreign law court?' You must understand this, however hard it is for us both and the children. But without the respect of decent Germans and above all without self-respect I could not have gone on living nor wanted to live.' 'Today I am grateful that in his defence Father did not take the 'low road' against Hitler. 'When we talked he regretted the generally spineless attitude that had been noticeable at Nuremberg. Father and I had brief chats with great warmth of feeling, which we both kept free of tension, conscious as we were of submitting to an ineluctable fate.' A decorated Nazi soldier in his own right Rudolf Von Ribbentrop, now in his late 90s, had his own personal encounters with Hitler, including one just months before the fascist leader would take his own life in a Berlin bunker. His chance meeting with one of the world's most evil men came just moments after an allied bombing run had pummelled central Berlin, when the Third Reich's defeat looked all but inevitable was causing a tremendous strain on Hitler. 'In impeccable deportment, a sentry of the Reich Chancellery invited me 'to come to the bunker',' remembered the author, who had narrowly avoided injury in the raid. 'I followed him into the ruins of the Chancellery until, stepping through a fire door, I suddenly stood before Hitler. 'I did not even have time to present myself properly according to regulations, when he grasped my right hand with both of his - a typical gesture of Hitler's - and appreciatively talked about my division. The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, officially known as the Treaty of Non-aggression between Germany and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, was a neutrality pact between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union signed in Moscow on 23 August 1939 by foreign ministers Joachim von Ribbentrop and Vyacheslav Molotov, pictured together At the Nuremberg trials, Ribbentrop was judged to have been actively involved in planning the Anschluss, as well as the invasions of Czechoslovakia and Poland. He was also deeply involved in the 'final solution'; as early as 1942 he had ordered German diplomats in Axis countries to hasten the process of sending Jews to death camps in the east The Nazi's Foreign Minister's family, 1936. Left to right, back row: Rudolf (author) and Bettina. Centre: Annelies and Joachim von Ribbentrop. Bottom: Adolf and Ursula. Arrested in June 1945, Ribbentrop was tried at the Nuremberg trials and convicted for his role in starting World War II in Europe and enabling the Holocaust. On 16 October 1946, he became the first of those sentenced to death by hanging to be executed 'I stood there as if turned to stone, unable to say anything in reply; the impact of the sight of Hitler's physical deterioration was too overwhelming. What had happened to the man whom on 30 April of both 1939 and 1940 - Father's birthday - in a convivial circle, sitting at the same table, I had listened to and observed? His body was a wreck. His face was grey and puffy, his bearing bent in a way that looked as if he had a hump, holding one uncontrollably shaking hand with the other, his steps a shuffle. Only his striking blue eyes kept a certain brilliance, but without hiding an impression of great infirmity. 'We said goodbye. I had not been able to utter a single word, so shattering had been the impact of that quarter of an hour during which I stood before the man who for us soldiers represented our country and in whom we believed, despite battles that were becoming ever more cruel. For more than five years, under constantly increasing heavy loss of lives, we had fought for Germany, our country, not for Hitler. But Hitler was the personification of our country.' The story of the Joachim Von Ribbentrop before his death is undoubtedly an interesting one. He was an often isolated figure among the Nazi elite, and was occasionally scorned as 'absent-minded and odd'. In his final report from London, where he acted as ambassador, Von Ribbentrop informed Hitler that he was convinced that Great Britain would fight for its position in the world, information that Hitler took too lightly and would ultimately prove his undoing. Von Ribbentrop went on to play a key role forging the short-lived pact with Stalin's Soviet Union which paved the way for the attacks on Poland in 1939, and hence the start of the Second World War. Far from being uncritical, Rudolf Von Ribbentrop sets out to paint an objective picture of his Father's role. His unique position throws fascinating light on the unfolding dramatic events leading up to, and then the execution of, the Second World War. Within his book, Rudolf Von Ribbentrop briefly describes his personal experiences including his war service with the SS but it is his unique perspective into the upper echelons of the Third Reich decision-making process that draws the reader in. Explaining his decision to compose his memoirs, which were released in Germany several years ago, which were often painful to recall, Rudolf Von Ribbentrop said: 'It was seeking an answer to the question - of desperation - 'How could it have come to that?' In the face of a defeated Hitler that finally incited me to put pen to paper about what I remembered, what I knew and had experienced in the years from 1933 to 1945. 'What were the exceptional circumstances that granted me the licence to chronicle those times which I lived through at first hand, as a child and as a young man, between the ages of 11 and 24, in what I may claim to have been the true sense of the word 'intimately'? 'It was the era of German history known variously as the Third Reich, the Thousand Year Reich or 'Hitler's Germany' that turned out to be so traumatic for the German people that as a consequence these days the subject is taboo, insofar as an objective analysis - of foreign policy at least - is concerned. 'For the reader to judge whether or not I have the legitimate right to express my views, let me use the English saying: 'Take it or leave it!'' Rudolf Von Ribbentrop's My Father Joachim von Ribbentrop, published in English for the first time by Pen And Sword Books, is available here. Left: Hitler greets Ribbentrop following the conclusion of the Naval Agreement with Britain, 1935. Right: Signature of the German-Soviet Pact of Non-Aggression on 23 August 1939 in Moscow by Ribbentrop. From 1938 to 1939, he tried to persuade other states to align themselves with Germany for the coming war Signature of the Pact of Steel between Italy and Germany, 22 May 1939. Von Ribbentrop sits next to Hitler and was responsible for setting up many of the treaties which paved the path for war. Ribbentrop met frequently with leaders and diplomats from Italy, Japan, Romania, Spain, Bulgaria, and Hungary. During all this time, Ribbentrop feuded with various other Nazi leaders Vasya Turda, 14, posing with an assault rifle - he was branded a 'maniac' by his victim's father A tycoon's 14 year old son has been jailed for murdering his friend in a frenzied knife attack 'after losing a computer game'. The boy, named in Ukraine as Vasya Turda, had been given new computer games by his rich father, a court was told. He invited his friend named as Vasya Pop, 15, to his family's mansion to show off his new gaming system. But several hours later Vasya Pop's neck was cut with a knife and had a total of 27 stab wounds at his house in Nizhnyaya Apsha, known as Ukraine's wealthiest village. The boy's body was found by his friend's grandmother. 'He stabbed my son with a knife,' said Mikhail Pop, the victim's father. 'He had 27 stab wounds, his head almost severed, his neck cut from ear to ear. This was the first strike, the experts told me. Then he abused the corpse.' The grieving father branded the attacker 'a maniac'. A 'conflict' between the teenagers is believed to have arisen over the outcome of a computer game, said reports on the case citing law enforcement. Vasya Pop, 15, suffered 27 stab wounds and his neck was said to be so badly cut his head was almost severed 'Vasily Turda attacked his mate when they played on a console on the second floor (of the mansion),' said one account. Vasya Pop fled with blood pouring from his his badly wounded neck. He ran down to the ground floor as Turda chased him wielding a knife. Police pictures show a trail of blood was strewn through the large house. Vasya Turda - whose father Vasily is a wealthy businessman - was convicted of 'murder committed in the heat of passion' as they played computer games. He was sentenced to three and a half years by a Ukrainian court. The court heard allegations that the victim had provoked the attacker with 'unlawful violence, systematic harassment or grievous insult'. A blood trail leading down the stairs (left), after stabbing the boy Turda chased him with the blade; more blood trails (right) can be seen on a dining room table at the mansion in Nizhnyaya Apsha In an earlier dispute, it was claimed Vasya Pop had pulled down his friend's trousers in the presence of girls in a cafe. But regional prosecutors are now demanding the sentence should be increased to 15 years, say reports. The exact computer games the teenagers' were playing were not revealed. An angry bull has ploughed through a religious procession in India, injuring at least 12 people with three still in a critical condition. The Shia mourners were commemorating the martyrdom of Islamic leader Hazrat Ali when the bull tore into the crowds yesterday in Lucknow, a city in the north of the country. Around 250,000 people were in the procession for the religious day and dramatic video shows the moment the bull became loose. A rampaging bull ploughs through a 250,000-strong crowd of worshippers in Lucknow, India As panic spread throughout the mourners, a group of young men managed to grab the bull's horns and pushed it to the side, according to The Times of India. Three people remain in hospital with critical injuries after the rampage while another nine required treatment. Nadeem Rizvi, 55, Zafar Abbas, 28, and Laraib Zaidi, 25, were seriously injured after being gored by the bull. The mourners had come to celebrate the martyrdom of Hazrat Ali when the stray bull ran amok, with many trying to bring it under control by grappling its horns Hundreds tried to flee the huge animal and it left three in a critical condition after being gored Mourners blamed the local authorities for failing to erect proper safety barriers to protect them from the stray animals. The Lucknow Municipal Corporation has since launched an investigation after video of the shocking incident went viral. It is not known why the stray bulls were not removed from the area before the huge annual processions marking the life of the fourth caliph of Islam on the 21st day of Ramadan. It is the tenth attack by a stray animal in just two months in Lucknow, with two killed and eight injured. Quyen Ngoc Nguyen, 28, was lured into a trap and subjected to sexual abuse by the men Police failed to tell the probation service that a killer on life licence had threatened to rape a woman - one month before he and another convicted murderer teamed up to kill and torch a young mother, an inquest heard today Stephen Unwin, 41, had 26 police incidents recorded against him in the years after he left prison on life licence in 2012 - but he could still associate freely with William McFall, 52, a fellow lifer who he had once shared a cell with. The pair carried out the torture and murder of Quyen Ngoc Nguyen, 29, in October 2017. She was raped by Unwin before her body was set alight in her car on allotments near Sunderland. An inquest at Sunderland Civil Centre to probe potential failings into how they were free to kill again heard that police received information that Unwin had threatened a woman on July 2, 2017. He threatened to break her jaw in a Facebook message and added that he and a cousin would team up to rape her. Police were aware and investigated what happened but did not pass information to the probation service who were supposed to be monitoring Unwin. William McFall (left) and Stephen Unwin (right) put Miss Nguyen into the back of her own car, splashed her in petrol and set her on fire while she was still alive in August last year Giving evidence at the hearing, Detective Inspector Edward Small told Sunderland Coroner Derek Winter that a system of 'flags and markers' introduced in 2013 had been withdrawn by the force in April 2015. The system was set up so that the probation service and other monitoring agencies would be automatically warned if a targeted offender came to the attention of the police. After it was withdrawn, the job of flagging up danger signs was left to individual officers. The reason for its withdrawal, the court heard, was that it was taking up too much of police officers' time. DI Small told the hearing: 'In summary, Stephen Unwin had 26 items prior to this incident (the murder of Quyen).' He added: 'There was an incident on July 2, 2017 recorded on our crime details where it was alleged he sent threatening Facebook messages to a female threatening to smash her jaw in and take turns with a cousin to rape her. 'As I understand there was no complaint made by the complainant leading to charges. The complainant did not want to take the matter any further.' Miss Nguyen's sister Quyhn is pictured with a photograph of her sibling alongside other family members outside Newcastle Crown Court in April 2018 The caller told police that Unwin was a murderer, the inquest was told. Coroner Derek Winter asked him whether the matter was reported to the probation service. Detective Inspector Winter replied: 'It would appear not.' How police officers were monitoring up to 90 offenders each Police officers with Northumbria's Multi Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) team were monitoring up to 90 offenders each at the time Quyen Ngoc Nguyen was killed, the inquest was told. Detective Chief Inspector Denise Laverick of the force's safeguarding team said each of the force's Risk Management Officers (RMOs) were dealing with 75-90 offenders each. Following a review carried out after Quyen's death that level has now dropped to 35-45 offenders per officer. At the time the MAPPA team had 28 officers across four teams in the north and south of the Northumbria force area. Asked by the coroner whether the number of reports coming in made the task too 'labour intensive' she replied: 'That is right sir.' The process of flagging offenders to probation was scrapped in April 2015. But in December 2018, following the review after Quyen's death, a new Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) was established by the force. Advertisement Ruth Bundey, representing Quyen's family, said to DI Small: 'This was a very unpleasant message with very serious content. 'It was logged that the caller said in the call 'he has been in prison for murder and he is a very aggressive male.' That was recorded at the time.' Amongst the 26 incidents logged against Unwin by the police since his release in December 2012, was one in which he was spotted with a diesel can by a police officer. The officer was aware that in past offences he had torched homes - including that of the elderly men he murdered in his first offence on Christmas Day 1998. An officer recorded on July 12, 2015 that he had seen Unwin in possession of diesel cans and recorded on the police log: 'He is on life licence for a murder where he attempted to destroy evidence by fire.' Ms Bundey asked whether the potential breach of licence was passed to the probation service. DI Small replied: 'There is no police record of that.' Unwin had also threatened and ex partner and been involved in an incident in which 'the whole street was fighting' after a neighbour dispute. It was recorded by police after that incident that Unwin had threatened to burn someone's house down. The officer was asked by the coroner why the 'flags and markers' scheme was withdrawn in 2015. He said: 'Due to the demand and the belief it was not as effective a way of monitoring that information as possible. One person's interaction with police could generate four or five flags from one incident. The coroner will look at whether police and the Probation Service missed chances to prevent the brutal murder of Vietnamese mother Miss Nguyen (pictured) 'Officers were coming in to pages and pages of these flags on a monday morning, taking time to get to the bottom of each one and whether each one was relevant 'It was the time taken to research each flag that was putting such demands on the officers required to do it.' PC Sarah Strong dealt with the complaint of the woman that Unwin threatened to rape along with his cousin. Although in the original 999 call the woman told police that Unwin had been in prison for murder, PC Strong said she could not remember reading that before going out to see her. The woman said she did not want to go ahead with the prosecution against Unwin and PC Strong accepted that. PC Strong said she would not necessarily have forwarded the information about Unwin being a convicted murderer to a probation officer even if she had been aware of the content of the 999 call. She was asked by Ruth Bundey: 'You would not have considered this was a piece of intelligence that needed to go forward?' She replied: 'Not at that time.' A probation officer, Leigh Harperfield, was found not to be updating information onto the probation service's electronic system. In a statement, senior probation officer Joanne Dixon said: 'It became clear Leigh Harperfield was not updating contacts on the electronic case management system. I advised her it was very important to do so as a matter or urgency and reallocated some of her cases (to allow her to do so).' Unwin, of Houghton-le-Spring, Tyne and Wear, and McFall, of Blackpool, but originally Northern Ireland, were both convicted of murder after a six week trial at Newcastle Crown Court last March. Unwin was also convicted of raping Miss Nguyen and both men received full life terms, meaning they will spend the rest of their lives in jail. McFall grins to the camera while Unwin drives the car in a selfie taken shortly after the murder The killers have been described as pitiless psychopaths who killed without a shred of remorse for the three victims they murdered between them. Miss Nguyen suffered a five hour torture ordeal at the hands of the two men, who had spent days or even weeks planning her sexual degradation and eventual murder. They ate a curry as she lay lifeless on the floor and then set her alight in her car near allotments while she was still alive. As they drove to the bank afterwards to use her cash card they took a selfie, with McFall grinning into the camera while Unwin was at the wheel. Miss Nguyen, a mother-of-two who entered the country in 2010 to study business at a London university, was murdered on August 15, 2017 after coming into contact with Unwin and McFall when they were carrying out work as handymen on flats she was renting out. The 5ft and seven stone victim visited Unwin at his terraced home in Shiney Row, near Sunderland, to discuss some more work for him and was set upon by the pair after she stepped inside. Prosecutor Jamie Hill, QC, told Newcastle Crown Court she was killed for 'a combination of violent, warped sexual fantasy and greed.' On the night of her murder McFall messaged Unwin to ask: 'Are we raping the c***k?' Miss Nguyen was beaten, throttled with a ligature around her neck and raped by the men who used a gas-powered pistol and a Star Wars lightsabre toy as part of the degrading assault. After she'd been in the house for five hours she was wrapped in a sheet and carried out to her black Audi A4 which was then driven by Unwin to a lane leading to allotments. They doused her in petrol and set both her and the car ablaze. Forensic tests later revealed that Miss Nguyen was still alive when she was set ablaze. The pair used her bank cards and PIN numbers, which they had forced out of her, to make a number of withdrawals from her account. Unwin and McFall, who first met in HMP Swaleside on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, were swiftly arrested by police who tracked them on CCTV. The inseparable friends cooked up a plan to blame each other, hoping it was would give them a legal loophole. Unwin claimed McFall strangled their victim with a ligature, a scene he walked in on while buying cigarettes at the local Coop. McFall said he watched Unwin smother her before he went to the shop. The jury had been given evidence of their previous crimes which resulted in both receiving and serving life sentences. Unwin killed cancer-stricken retired pharmacist John Greenwell, 73, in Houghton-le-Spring, knocking his victim to the floor before torching his bungalow, setting three seats of fire. He was released on licence on December 20, 2012. McFall bludgeoned to death Martha Gilmore, 77, to death with a hammer in a raid on her home on May 5, 1996, hiding the weapon in a graveyard. He was released on licence on October 29, 2010. McFall pleaded guilty to the murder at Belfast Crown Court on April 11, 1997 and was sentenced to life. His brother and brother-in-law, both now dead, were not charged through a lack of evidence. A source close to the case said Unwin and McFall both demonstrated 'classic psychopathic traits.' The court heard that some houses rented out by Miss Nguyen were used for the cultivation of cannabis crops. However police said after the case that there was nothing to suggest she was involved in the drugs trade, with her role being to find empty properties to let. These were later used in some cases to grow the class B drug by other people. Sunderland Coroner Derek Winter opened the eight day hearing by naming high ranking police and probations officers he would be calling to give evidence, including Northumbria's Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Bacon. Mr Winter said: 'The scope of this inquest will include whether the level of risk posed by the perpetrators of Quyen's death was assessed in line with policy and whether those individuals were supervised effectively in accordance with policies relevant to their assessed risk in accordance with licence conditions. 'Whether appropriate processes were in place to ensure matters relevant to potential recall to prison had been brought to the attention of the appropriate authorities. 'Whether there was any intelligence, and if so what, that existed about the association of these men with one another. 'Whether any evidence existed that they were potentially in breach of their conditions of their licences and whether all the information was passed between the police and the probation service. 'Whether any information in possession of the police or probation service gave rise to any missed opportunities for recall, dependant of course on what policies there were in existence.' A Japanese man died on an Aeromexico flight after 246 packets of cocaine - later found in his stomach and intestines - caused his brain to swell. The 42-year-old began having convulsions mid-air and flight attendants organised for the Boeing 787/8 to be diverted to Hermosillo in northern Mexico. The flight was going from Bogota in Colombia to Narita Airport in Tokyo, with a scheduled stopover in Mexico City. It was when the plane left the capital that the man had seizures mid-air, causing the diversion to Hermosillo International Airport, where he was reported dead. A forensic team remove the Japanese man's body from the Boeing in northern Mexico 'Flight attendants noticed a person suffering convulsions and requested permission to make an emergency landing in Hermosillo, Sonora,' Mexican authorities said of the man - identified only as 'Udo N'. 'When the plane landed at 2:25am on Friday, paramedics boarded it and declared Udo N deceased.' Macabre pictures show paramedics in Sonora state removing the body from the airliner, and putting it into a specialised vehicle. An autopsy found the man had swallowed 246 packets of cocaine, each measuring 1cm by 2.5cm. The plane was carrying 198 other passengers and after the emergency landing in northern Mexico, it continued on to Japan. An autopsy found the man had swallowed 246 packets of cocaine, each measuring 1cm by 2.5cm. Medics in northern Mexico wait for the body to be removed from the plane Mexico's federal authorities will take over the subsequent investigation. 'The body of the traveler did not present other signs of violence that could cause the death; other studies will be carried out in the Pathology area of the General Hospital of the State to rule out health problems,' read an official statement. Drug cartels often deploy a 'mule' tactic, encouraging people to swallow tightly wrapped packets of narcotics. This technique can have fatal consequences when the packaging bursts. Last year, a Brazilian student died after one of the cocaine pellets he swallowed inside him when he was flying from Lisbon to Dublin, the Irish Times reported. Former Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis has a book coming out this summer, but he warns that it will not be a 'tell-all' about President Donald Trump. 'Call Sign Chaos: Learning to Lead' will be published July 16, Random House announced Tuesday. Co-written with Bing West, the book will be an 'expansive account' of the retired general's military career, according to the publisher. Mattis will write about conflicts from Afghanistan to Iraq and use those experiences for lessons on war and peace. The book was under contract before Mattis became defense secretary in early 2017, although it will touch upon events over the past couple of years, a Random House spokesperson told The Associated Press. Soured relationship: Jim Mattis and Donald Trump started as apparent allies with the president deferring to the four-star Marine general but they ended at loggerheads over Syria Distinguished career: Mattis, whose call sign at the head of the 7th Marine Regiment was Chaos, is to write about his forty years in uniform But 'Call Sign Chaos' should be far different in tone from such scathing best-sellers as James Comey's 'A Higher Loyalty' and Michael Wolff's 'Fire and Fury.' 'My purpose in writing this book is to convey some of the lessons I learned in 43 years of service for those who might benefit, whether in the military or in civilian life,' Mattis, 68, said in a statement. 'I'm old-fashioned: I don't write about sitting Presidents, so those looking for a tell-all will be disappointed. 'I want to pass on the lessons and experiences that prepared me for challenges I could not anticipate, not take up the hot political rhetoric of our day.' The book's title comes from Mattis' call sign, 'Chaos,' while he led the 7th Marine Regiment in the mid-1990s. (Trump had favored calling him 'Mad Dog,' a nickname Mattis disdained). Trump initially had high praise for Mattis, a 4-star Marine general who for a time seemed to enjoy a level of respect Trump rarely showed to other cabinet officials. Foreign policy officials viewed him as a stabilizing force within a tumultuous White House and a leading advocate for traditional alliances. But Trump and Mattis would differ on a wide range of issues, from the president's desire to withdraw troops from Syria to his harsh talk about NATO. Mattis announced late last year he was leaving, writing in his resignation letter that Trump had 'the right' to have a defense secretary whose views were aligned with his. Trump responded by disparaging Mattis' leadership at the Pentagon and by stating, falsely, that he had 'effectively' fired his defense secretary. Mattis has since been virtually silent about his time in the administration. Tony Blair has been blasted after trying to spin the result of the European elections into a Remainer win despite the Brexit Party running away with the result. The former Labour PM was criticised after trying to suggest that pro-EU parties won a bigger share of the vote after Nigel Farage's crushing victory. He said that the Remainer vote was bigger than that of both the Brexit Party and Ukip combined but failed to mention the votes won by the Conservative Party, which also backs Brexit. His comments provoked uproar from Brexiteers who accused him of having a poor grasp of the numbers involved in the election. Tory Brexiteer Andrew Bridgen said: 'For anyone including Tony Blair to think the election was anything but a victory for the Brexit Party is to be in complete denial of the facts. 'Even Tony Blair cannot spin his way out of this one.' The row is not the first time Mr Blair interpretation of facts has been questioned. In 2016 a report into the Iraq War by Sir John Chilcot strongly criticised the way Mr Blair led the country into the conflict in 2003 on the basis of 'flawed' intelligence. When the former leader gave evidence to the Chilcot inquiry in 2010 the families of those killed branded him a 'liar' and a 'murderer' - but after the report was released Sir John said the PM had 'not departed from the truth'. The Brexit Party romped home in the elections yesterday, raking in 31.6 per cent of the vote despite being formed only six weeks ago. The Lib Dems were a distant second on 20.3 per cent, ahead of Labour on 14.1 per cent, the Greens on 12.1 per cent and the Tories, who came fifth with a dismal 9.1 per cent. Speaking on Sky News today, Mr Blair said: 'You can argue about the Brexit Party coming number one - but then if you stack up the votes of the pro-remain parties it's a bigger percentage than the Brexit Party and UKIP. So what these results tell you is that this country is profoundly divided.' Mr Blair told Sky News today: 'If you stack up the votes of the pro-remain parties it's a bigger percentage than the Brexit Party and UKIP'. Mr Farage gave his own interpretation of the results as he tackled the claims that were being circulated by Remainers on social media today The Brexit Party have topped polls in every country or region apart from London. London was won by the Liberal Democrats Yesterday Mr Blair's former No 10 spinner Alastair Campbell was among those who argued that adding up the votes for anti-Brexit parties could be taken as an indication that the public did not want to leave the EU. Report blasted Tony Blair over the way he took UK into deadly Iraq War which left 179 Britons dead Sir John Chilcot unveiled his 2.6 million-word report in 2016 The 2.6 million-word Chilcot report tore into former prime minister Tony Blair, other leading politicians and senior officials over their actions before, during and after the conflict in which 179 British service personnel died. Sir John Chilcot's report strongly criticised the way Mr Blair took the country to war in 2003 on the basis of 'flawed' intelligence with inadequate preparation at a time when Saddam Hussein did not pose an 'imminent threat'. It also also said the way the decision about the legal basis for the war was reached was 'far from satisfactory', but his report did not rule on the legality of the military action. When the former leader gave evidence to the inquiry in 2010 the families of those killed branded him a 'liar' and a 'murderer'. But the subsequent report stopped short of saying he had deliberately not told the truth. Mr Blair has defended the decision to oust Saddam and insisted that his efforts to form a close relationship with the US had persuaded President George W Bush to pursue a second UN Security Council resolution, which ultimately was not obtained. Advertisement The claims by Remainers prompted Mr Farage to dismiss them as 'absolute tosh'. He argued that the Tories must be counted in the Leave vote, with its 9.1 per cent of votes giving Brexiteers a majority. The Brexit Party leader raged that pro-EU politicians were just 'moaning about every single election which they lose'. He told Good Morning Britain: 'Add up the Brexit vote, add up the Ukip vote.. add the Conservative vote, who are still a party that says we are going to leave, and you will find that Leave beat Remain. 'In fact what you will find is that overall the country is 52-48 in favour of leaving.' He added: 'We are supposed to be a democracy. We were promised this would be implemented.' Labour's 14.1 per cent would also take the tally over 50 per cent for an outright majority, although the party's position has been thrown into confusion. Senior figures including Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer are pushing for it to swing behind a second referendum although its official position is to back Brexit on its own terms. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Campbell, whose party campaigned on a Remainer 'b*llocks to Brexit' ticket, was also among those who tried to spin the result. He insisted last night that there was a 'majority to stay' in the EU after his party beat the Tories and Labour in an election for the first time in 100 years. Nigel Farage is expected to arrive in Brussels on Tuesday, but it is not known when he will be joined by the other 28 MEPs from his Brexit Party. Britain's newest MEPs are preparing to head to Brussels for their first engagements in the European Parliament. Although the next term of the parliament does not begin until July 2, newly-elected MEPs must meet their transnational political groups first. Many of those meetings are expected to take place this week. Brexit Party MEPs, like former Ukip MEPs, will sit in the Europe of Freedom and Direct Democracy political group of right-wing Eurosceptic parties. Former No10 spin doctor Alastair Campbell was among the Remain supporters insisting Brexiteers had actually lost the elections Mr Blair also repeated his call for Labour to back a second referendum in the wake of an election in which Mr Campbell admitted he had voted for the Lib Dems as a Remainer. Mr Blair, speaking before his former aide revealed his expulsion, said he voted Labour 'without any great enthusiasm'. But asked what he would say to Mr Campbell, added: 'I understand why you did what you did. 'You wouldn't be the only person I know who voted Labour all their lives who didn't vote Labour in this election.' Alastair Campbell is EXPELLED from Labour after voting for the Liberal Democrats Alastair Campbell was today expelled from Labour after he admitted he had not voted for the party for first time in his life, in disgust at the party's stance on Europe Alastair Campbell was today expelled from Labour after he admitted he had not voted for the party for first time in his life, in disgust at the party's stance on Europe. Tony Blair's former spin doctor said he had cast his votes for the Liberal Democrats at the European elections last Thursday. Today the Labour leadership threw him out of the party over his decision, and Mr Campbell will appeal saying that Mr Blair chose not to throw Jeremy Corbyn out of the party despite spending years voting against Labour in Parliament. He tweeted: 'Sad and disappointed to receive email expelling me from @UKLabour - particularly on a day leadership finally seems to be moving to the right place on Brexit, not least thanks to tactical voting by party members, including MPs, councillors and peers who back a people's vote. 'I was not intending to publicise this at this stage, but have had calls from friends in the Party telling me it is now widely known and likely to be leaked. I have been advised by lawyers with expertise in this field I have grounds for appeal against expulsion and shall do so'. Today Britain's human rights watchdog has launched a formal investigation into whether the Labour Party 'unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish'. Mr Campbell said there was a difference in the swift way his situation had been dealt with compared to 'the way anti-Semitism cases have been handled'. Labour MP Margaret Hodge backed him up and said: 'So it takes 5 days for Labour to expel @campbellclaret but almost 3 years to expel prolific anti-semite Jackie Walker. This is why the EHRC are investigating'. Advertisement What if Euro poll was a GENERAL election? Nigel Farage might have delivered a political earthquake in the EU elections - but it would be nothing to the shock if he could replicate the performance in a Westminster election. The Brexit Party would be sitting on a 200-plus seat majority if the votes broke down the same way in a general election, according to the Electoral Calculus website. Such results would spell disaster for key Conservative strongholds - with constituencies held by Cabinet ministers Sajid Javid and Brandon Lewis among those most at risk. The figures will come as a brutal wake-up call to the Tories, although experts have played down the likelihood of a Westminster election having the same outcome. Even though turnout was relatively high at 37 per cent, the 2017 general election had turnout of just under 69 per cent. While the European elections are conducted on a party list system, MPs are elected on a first-past-the-post basis. There would also probably be other policy issued at stake in a general election and the grass-roots machines of the two main parties could hold more sway. However, theoretically Mr Farage's 31.6 per cent support would give the Brexit Party 446 out of 650 seats in the Commons, under the formula used by Electoral Calculus. That would be a significantly bigger majority than Tony Blair enjoyed in 1997. Labour would have 93 MPs, and the Tories would be down to zero. The SNP would have 56 seats, the Liberal Democrats 31, the Greens one, and Plaid Cymru five. Advertisement Tory leadership war over No Deal: Hunt admits he might delay Brexit AGAIN beyond October to avoid a 'suicidal' No Deal as more MPs enter race to succeed May after drubbing by Farage Jeremy Hunt today admitted Brexit might have to be delayed again to avoid No Deal - as the Tory leadership battle escalated in the wake of disastrous EU election results. The Foreign Secretary warned that trying to push through Brexit in October in the face of opposition from Parliament would only cause a general election - and the 'annihilation' of the Conservatives. The dire assessment underlines the growing divide between hard and soft Brexiteers in the race to succeed Theresa May. Boris Johnson, Andrea Leadsom, Dominic Raab and Esther McVey have all made clear they want the UK to get out of the EU at all costs by Halloween - the next deadline set with Brussels. But International Development Secretary Rory Stewart, Health Secretary Matt Hancock and now Mr Hunt have warned against trying to force a No Deal departure. Other contenders have yet to spell out their positions - with Home Secretary Sajid Javid again dodging questions from reporters this morning. In a round of interviews today, Mr Hunt said the Conservatives would be committing 'political suicide' if they try to force a cliff-edge exit. 'I think we have to be careful about saying we will definitely leave the EU on a fixed date, deal or no deal,' he said. 'The risk of that is that Parliament might try to stop a no-deal Brexit as they have done and we would be pushed into a general election.' But Miss McVey immediately fired back, saying: 'Political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU and not leaving on October 31.' The spat came as a tenth Tory threw their hat into the ring for the leadership, with housing minister Kit Malthouse saying the party needs a 'fresh face'. Jeremy Hunt (left) has warned against No Deal Brexit in the first sign of open conflict between Tory leadership rivals. But Home Secretary Sajid Javid (pictured right at his London home today) has yet to spell out his position Boris Johnson, pictured leaving his London home today, has declared that the UK should leave the EU at the end of October with or without an agreement Michael Gove, pictured left jogging in London today, is another candidate in the Tory leadership. Rory Stewart (right) has been out on GMB talking about his credentials today Mr Malthouse, whose seat is North West Hampshire, said: 'I believe I'm a new face, with fresh new ideas, from a new and talented generation.' What will the Tory leadership candidates do to deliver Brexit as Farage calls the shots? Boris Johnson: Brexiteer who backs a deal but will leave without a deal if required. Writing in the Daily Telegraph today the ex-foreign secretary said: 'No one sensible would aim exclusively for a no-deal outcome. No one responsible would take no-deal off the table.' Dominic Raab: Brexiteer who wants the current deal with Brussels renegotiated but believes the UK should leave on October 31 'at the latest' with or without a deal, saying: 'I believe that I have the plan to ensure we can leave the EU by the end of October'. Andrea Leadsom: Brexiteer who told the Guardian we must be 'prepared to leave without a deal' but has a 'three-point plan for Brexit, for how we get out of the European Union'. Rory Stewart: Remainer who says he could not work for a PM who backed a No Deal Brexit. Described it as 'damaging, unnecessary' and 'a huge mistake'. Michael Gove: Brexiteer who favours a deal. He told the BBC at the weekend that 'we would be able to get through it' but added: 'It's ultimately better for all of us if we secure a deal with the EU and leave in an orderly way'. Matt Hancock: Remainer who backs a deal. He told Sky News that leaving the European Union without an agreement is 'not an active policy choice that is available to the next prime minister', in jibe at Boris Johnson. Jeremy Hunt: Remainer turned Brexiteer whose views on No Desal have varied. last year he said it would be 'a mistake we would regret for generations' before later insisting the UK would 'would survive and prosper' if it left unilaterally. Esther McVey: Ruled out a futher Brexit extension. Today she said: 'People saying we need a Brexit policy to bring people together are misreading the situation. We need to deliver on the referendum result with a clean break and then we bring people together by how we govern the country outside the EU.' Sajid Javid: Remainer Home Secretary who accepts that Brexit has to happen. He said today: 'First and foremost, we must deliver Brexit.' Kit Malthouse: Housing minister who says the Tories need to turn to a 'new generation' of politicians. The 52-year-old tried to organise a deal between Conservative Brexit factions - which was modestly named the 'Malthouse Compromise'. Advertisement The 52-year-old Brexiteer published polling to show that 56 per cent do not want a big beast to succeed Theresa May. A large number agreed with the phrase: 'I want someone new, as a feel we need a change.' Mr Hunt has sparked a major row by warning that No Deal would be 'political suicide', delighting Nigel Farage and probably putting Jeremy Corbyn 'in No 10 by Christmas'. Mr Hunt said if he becomes Prime Minister he would instead try to renegotiate a new Brexit deal with Brussels, saying he would 'go to them with a shared problem and there is a chance of a shared solution'. His comments put him at odds with many Tory candidates who yesterday lined up to pledge they would finally take the country out of the EU after the Tories suffered their worst election result in 200 years. Boris Johnson, the favourite to succeed Theresa May, tweeted: 'The message is clear. It is time for us to deliver Brexit and set out our positive plans for the country.' Mr Javid, who entered the race yesterday, said getting the country out of the EU would be his 'first and foremost' priority. But challenged by reporters outside his home whether he dodged. 'Brexit is clearly going to be one of the big issues that has to be addressed properly and every candidate has to come forward with a credible plan,' Mr Javid said. 'So I will have much more to say on that in the coming days.' The European Parliament election results saw the Tories slump to fifth place with just four MEPs. Also writing in today's Telegraph, Nigel Farage said the success for his Brexit Party was 'only the start', warning that his party was ready to stand in the general election 'whenever it comes'. 'It took the Labour Party 45 years to win the popular vote in a national election. The Brexit Party has done it in 45 days,' he boasted. Miss McVey earlier declared it was no longer possible to find a Brexit a plan 'to bring people together' as she argued that leaving without a deal is the only thing that 'will wash now'. The former Work and Pensions Secretary quit the Cabinet in November 2018 in protest at Theresa May's Brexit deal. The Tatton MP said the Conservative Party needed a leader who 'believes in Brexit', and had 'belief in the opportunities' it could bring. But Miss McVey said that Mrs May's departure should be handled in a 'dignified and graceful' way. A heartbroken family is grieving for the second time in 12 months after a tradie was buried to death under 2000 tonnes of rubbish at a western Sydney tip. The man who died in the workplace tragedy at BINGO Industries landfill in Eastern Creek on Monday has been identified as married father-of-three Kurt Wilson, 47. He and a colleague are believed to have become trapped under the debris, including fridges, washing machines and mattresses after a bulldozer rolled at the former quarry site. Kurt Wilson (pictured) was buried under tonnes of waste and was unable to be revived Fellow workers and emergency services dug with their bare hands in their desperate attempts to free the trapped men. Mr Wilson was trapped for 30 minutes and was unable to be revived. The other man in his early 30s was taken to Westmead Hospital with abdominal and shoulder injuries and later discharged. The tragedy occurred just over a year after Mr Wilson and his wife Linda mourned the death of baby twins born premature, according to a GoFundMe page set up on Tuesday. His devastated family are now demanding answers over Monday's tragedy. 'This should not of happened to my brother I want answers and I want the truth,' sister Jackie Shiner told The Daily Telegraph. Kurt Wilson leaves behind a heartbroken wife and three children. He and his wife had mourned the tragic death of premature twins just last year Another sister Susan Newcombe took Facebook to post a heartfelt tribute. 'There are no words that could ever possibly describe what I am feeling at the loss of my brother Kurt. May you Rest In Peace. Forever loved never forgotten, will miss you always,' she wrote. Ms Newcombe later posted: 'Thank you to everyone for your condolences, prayers and thoughts. Today has been one of the hardest days for myself and my family so I ask everyone to hold your family tight and tel them everyday that you love them even when you are angry and always remember tomorrow is never promised.' Frantic colleagues and emergency workers used their hands to free the two men trapped Kurt Wilson's family are now demanded answers after his life was tragically cut short Around $1000 had already been raised within hours on the GoFundMe page, which described Mr Wilson as an amazing father, husband, brother and uncle. 'Words cant describe how I feel. You will be missed so much. Love you lots. RIP Uncle Kurt,' a woman posted on the page. NSW Fire and Rescue western Sydney duty commander Inspector Kernin Lambert described Monday's rescue as chaotic. Kurt Wilson (pictured) was remembered as an amazing father, husband, brother and uncle 'At this time it was quite a desperate situation, it was quite a desperate fight for life,' Inspector Lambert told reporters. 'The pile was quite unstable but we had to work very, very rapidly and very, very quickly, and at considerable risk to the rescue crews.' The matter is now being investigated by Work Safe NSW. The landfill site is the biggest in the southern hemisphere and was originally run by Dial A Dump Industries, which merged with BINGO Industries earlier this year. BINGO managing director and chief executive Daniel Tartak described the accident as a terrible tragedy. The company is cooperating with authorities and providing support to Mr Wilson's family and devastated colleagues. A leading cancer expert who treated Jade Goody and had been praised by Prince William, died after having a yellow fever jab at a travel clinic. Professor Martin Gore CBE died from a one in 100,000 reaction to the inoculation, which caused his organs to fail from a 'very rare complication'. The 67-year-old had treated reality star Jade Goody as she battled cervical cancer and after her death and called for the screening age to be lowered from 25 to 20. The top oncologist had also previously been presented with a lifetime achievement award by the Duke of Cambridge in 2015. At the time Prince William said he was a 'source of inspiration' and that he 'is one of the pioneers of 20th-century cancer care, and a friend, colleague and trusted doctor to many'. Professor Martin Gore (pictured above) died after receiving the jab. Following his death the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity paid tribute to him with this photo In 2015 he was praised by Prince William who said he was a 'trusted doctor to many' Professor Gore had planned to travel to Tanzania for a week and booked a vaccination appointment at a chemist in Chelsea, west London, on January 2. He died a day after being admitted to hospital on January 10. An inquest at St Pancras Coroner's Court was told that the risk of an adverse reaction for a 67-year-old was just one in 100,000. He had been a leading specialist in melanoma, ovarian and renal cancers, was medical director for ten years at The Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea and a Trustee of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. Yellow fever is transmitted by infected mosquitoes and does not yet have a cure - although several treatments are currently at the experimental stage. Giving evidence at the inquest, infectious disease consultant Dr Sanjay Bhagani from the Royal Free Hospital said antibodies in the vaccination could start to mimic the virus in less than one per cent in 100,000 people. Professor Gore had treated Jade Goody (pictured above) at the Royal Marsden hospital in London He highlighted that this risk increases to one in 100,000 for people aged 60 to 69 and 2.2 in 100,000 people over the age of 69. He said there isn't any treatment at the moment to treat yellow fever. 'In a small percentage of people especially people with immune deficiencies the virus can replicate and cause a disease that mimics the yellow fever disease that you see naturally. 'As far as we were aware Professor Gore did not have any immune deficiency. It's a very rare complication of yellow fever vaccination.' Following the inquest, Professor Gore's son Alex praised his said and said immunology had been one of his specialist fields. 'The whole family are and always have been pro-vaccination. The last thing he wants is for people to not get vaccinations.' Senior Coroner Mary Hassell heard Professor Gore arrived at A&E at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital on January 9 - just seven days after the vaccination - complaining of feeling unwell. Professor Gore arrived at A&E at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital (pictured above) on January 9 He was lethargic and felt cold, the inquest was told. Dr Michelle Hayes, a consultant in the intensive care department, in a statement said that the Professor had a previous diagnoses of Hepatitis B in the 70s and that apart from that, he was fit and well. 'He was not on any medication and had no known drug allergies and no previous surgery. 'He appeared critically unwell with evidence of multiple organ failure. He was becoming increasingly unwell after his vaccination. 'Our working diagnosis was that of acute multiple organ failure due to yellow fever vaccination.' Serious side effects from the vaccine are very rare, but are more common in those over the age of 60 (file photo) Professor Gore was transferred to the Royal Free Hospital that evening via an ambulance and was cared for by both intensive care and the infectious disease teams. Dr Sanjay Bhagani said a decision was made when the Professor arrived that he would be assessed by his team, and then by the liver team in order to determine the possibility of a liver transplant. 'The liver unit felt given his state this would probably not be a stable admission at this stage. 'Later that evening we got confirmation that he did have yellow fever vaccination associated virus in his blood at a very high level. What is Yellow Fever? Yellow fever is a tropical viral disease usually spread by mosquito bites. The virus is most commonly found in sub-Saharan Africa, South and Central America, and the Caribbean. It is believed to infect around 200,000 people each year and to kill 30,000 of them. Most of these cases around 90 per cent happen in Africa. As many as 50 per cent of people who develop severe symptoms, which include fever, muscle pain and soreness, bleeding and vomiting, end up dying of the disease. People die as a result of the disease causing multiple organ failure and potentially triggering shock. There is no medicine which can cure yellow fever after someone is infected, but there is a very effective vaccine which travellers to at risk areas can buy which gives most people lifelong immunity from a single dose. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Advertisement 'Clearly it was a very high concentration of the virus which led to other complications. 'Unfortunately despite maximum support, steroids and antibiotics, his condition continued to deteriorate overnight and then he died the following morning.' Asked by the coroner why Professor Gore reacted so severely to the vaccination despite having no history of immune deficiency and being a 'very fit chap', the consultant said: 'I can't find any other explanation apparent from that he was over the age of 60. 'Once the virus starts to replace at this rate and you're starting to get manifestations of early infection the risk is always very high. At this stage mortality is almost 50 to 60 per cent. 'Once the virus starts to replicate it starts doing this huge inflammatory response. We were hoping to try to switch that off if we possibly could, but we couldn't.' He said they understood very little about why people with apparently normal immune systems can succumb to complications such as this. 'As far as I know it there's not been any genetic deformity identified that could put people at high risk.' The doctor was also asked by Professor Gore's son Alex whether a possible experimental treatment could have been used to help treat his father. But it was said that the cancer doctor's condition had deteriorated too quickly to be considered stable enough to try the new drug - which has currently not even been tested on humans. It is currently undergoing human safety tests in Brazil, the inquest heard, but can be requested for us in special circumstances - what is 'compassionate grounds' - in the UK. The coroner heard a vaccination against yellow fever is not required for travellers to Tanzania, but is recommended for anyone who may be passing through an at-risk country for more than twelve hours. In a statement, a solicitor instructed on behalf of Boots UK Limited said pharmacists at the chain's travel clinics use a software that help them to assess a travellers risk during an appointment. Ms Hassell said: 'He chose to receive the vaccination for Hepatitis A, and typhoid as well as yellow fever which was administered by injection by the pharmacist during the consultation. 'Before the injection she advised of the potential side effects as well as the increased risk of side effects for people over 60 which included the risk of a rare but serious risk of adverse reaction. 'Professor Gore left without any apparent issues.' Boots later provided another statement to the coroner defending the software - which the inquest heard had 'recommended' Professor Gore have the yellow fever vaccination despite it not being a requirement of entering the country. According to the statement, the software is informed by current World Health Organisation guidance which recommends inoculation against yellow fever if a traveller is likely to be exposed to mosquitoes. Ms Hassell said: 'A yellow fever vaccination certificate is generally not required for people travelling to Tanzania. 'It might be recommended for a small sub-set of travellers who are at an increased risk because of prolonged travel or who may have extensive exposure to mosquitoes and are unable to avoid mosquito bites. 'The software does not recommend yellow fever vaccination by default but it does take into account considerations of other risk factors to determine whether or not a traveller may be within the small sub set. 'In the consultation report it's recorded that Professor Gore confirmed that he may visit areas where there is still water and mosquitoes breed in still water. He also said he was likely to visit rural areas.' Boots said it has now updated its software to change the wording from 'recommended' to 'to be considered' if a traveller falls into this small sub-set. The coroner recorded a narrative verdict, commenting: 'His medical cause of death was multiple organ failure caused by yellow fever vaccination associated disease. CAN VACCINES MAKE YOU ILL? Live vaccines, such as the one given to protect against yellow fever, work by injecting a weakened but still living form of the virus into the body. The purpose of this is to train the body how to make the right antibodies to fight off the virus, so it can remember how to do so in future. However, if someone's immune system is weakened by cancer, pregnancy, HIV or age, for example it may be unable to destroy even the weakened form of the virus. If this happens, it's possible the injected virus can survive, take hold and cause the infection it was intended to prevent. If this happens the symptoms are usually milder than the real disease. People who have had live vaccines may also be able to transmit an illness to someone with a weakened immune system, so should stay away from them after the jab. Live vaccines given in the UK include those for: rotavirus, MMR, flu (nasal only), shingles, chickenpox, tuberculosis, yellow fever and typhoid (oral only). They are all proven to be effective and side effects are rare. Source: Vaccine Knowledge Project, University of Oxford Advertisement 'I make a determination that Professor Gore died of a rare but recognised complication of yellow fever vaccination administered on the 2 January 2019.' Paying tribute to his father outside the inquest, Alex Gore said his father was much loved by patients and family alike. Alex said that sis death was very sudden and upsetting and that his father had been revered in the medical world and his field of cancer medicine. 'He was a world renowned doctor who worked at the The Royal Marsden Hospital for 35 years. 'He was popular and fantastic with all people in all walks of life - not just people who worked with him. He made people smile and life. He was so fun. 'That's why people liked him so much as a doctor beyond the medical side.' He highlighted it had been comforting to read what people said about his father after his death, including patients and their relatives. 'He also had a growing family with four children, three sons and a daughter, and is a grandfather to seven. 'He was aware of the risks and he was a trained medic.They are baffled by his death and they still don't know why it happened. 'We don't blame anyone, it's just an unfortunate thing to happen. 'However it's good to see that Boots have updated their guidance about getting the vaccination. 'We witnessed how hard the Royal Free and Chelsea and Westminster Hospital staff tried to save him, they were amazing and tried everything.' Bailiffs are visiting the homes of thousands of women who were given faulty PIP breast implants, delivering legal documents that flag to them they may have to pay back compensation. German safety body TUV Rheinland was ordered by a French court in 2017 to pay 52million (60million euros) to 20,000 women who received the implants. TUV was found liable over the global scandal in 2010 when it emerged that French firm Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) had made implants with substandard silicone. TUV was among the bodies that had certified the implants, and was found responsible for failing to detect problems with them. The scandal affected some 7,000 women in the UK, and 300,000 women in as many as 65 countries. TUV was found liable over the global scandal in 2010 when it emerged that French firm Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) had made implants (pictured) with substandard silicone. Victims sent legal letters include Stephanie Lee (left) and Amanda Carter (right) The French court ordered TUV to pay 3000 euros to each of the victims. But now TUV has begun an appeal, and some 13,000 victims awarded compensation have been issued with legal papers warning them they may have to pay back the money if they are successful in court. TUV Rheinland said it had been forced to send papers directly to victims' homes as the legal team representing the women had failed to register with the court, in compliance with French law. The firm warned last September 'As the claimants should have been advised by their lawyers, they will have to reimburse the provisional amounts paid to them if TUV Rheinland wins on appeal.' Sarah Higginson, from Andover in Hampshire, was awarded an payout of 3,000 in 2017 for implants she had in 2008, leaving her with 2,085.48 after legal fees. Sarah Higginson said the visits from the bailiff's left her suffering with anxiety and panic attacks The 39-year-old told the BBC that the visit by bailiffs left her suffering with anxiety and panic attacks and she feared if the appeal was successful money would have to be paid back. 'We had to wait years for the small amount of compensation we did get and that didn't even cover the cost of the surgery and now we're getting this treatment with people turning up with papers left, right and centre. 'It is causing long term mental damage. It's all of that on top of that worry about what's inside you.' Amanda Carter, from Kettering, Northamptonshire, had PIP implants in 2002. She said: 'It's been hugely concerning. 'A lot of women are concerned that a bailiff at their door means that they can come in and take their possessions and a lot of people have presumed they are there to collect.' Stephanie Lee from Kidderminster, Worcestershire, had the implants in 2008. The founder of PIP, Jean-Claude Mas (oictured in 2013) was sentenced to four years in prison for fraud in 2013. He died in April aged 79 She said after receiving the papers: 'It's terrifying. 'It's like having a court summons. You think, is a bailiff suddenly going to turn up at the house and take stuff away? 'Am I going to prison for money that I've been given through the courts?' WHAT WAS THE PIP SCANDAL? French company Poly Implant Prothese (PIP), which is now out of business, was found to have made silicon breast implants using silicon intended for mattresses, not for medical use. PIP implants were withdrawn from use in the UK in 2010, but by it is estimated 47,000 woman had the implants before this happened. 20,000 women sued the company responsible for testing the implants TUV Rheinland and were awarded 2,600 each. PIP implants are not though to pose any serious health risk, but are two to six times more likely to rupture. If they rupture they should be removed because they can become misshapen and cause pain, swelling and enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit. The NHS does not recommend women having PIP implants removed unless they are problematic women can discuss the implants with their surgeon if they are concerned. Most PIP implants were used in private clinics and hospitals, but a small number were given in NHS operations for women who had breast cancer surgery. Source: NHS Advertisement Jan Spivey, co-founder of PIP Action Campaign, said 'The idea women may have to pay back money intended for help them is morally bankrupt. 'That TUV are trying to attack the integrity of the victims' claims is scandalous.' TUV maintains that it was not responsible for what the implants were made of, only the way they were produced. PIP's silicone gel can cause medical problems if the implants leak or erupt. A UK report in June 2012 found that PIP implants had double the rupture rate of other implants. The founder of PIP, Jean-Claude Mas, was sentenced to four years in prison for fraud in 2013. He died in April aged 79. Cecile Derycke, a lawyer at Hogan Lovells Paris representing TUV Rheinland in France, told the BBC that the company had 'taken many steps' to avoid sending the documentation to victims. She said: 'In French law people who are defendants before the court of appeal must either register counsel with the court, or they must receive the other party's submissions through a bailiff. 'Unfortunately after more than a year of trying to avoid this - to avoid the costs and also the complexities for everyone involved - no lawyer had registered counsel for some of the claimants and so that's why TUV Rheinland didn't have any other choice but to send the documentation to some of the claimants, and the French lawyers for the claimants were duly informed that this would happen.' Hundreds of British parents are sending their teenage children back to East Africa to avoid the knife crime epidemic that has struck London and seen 51 murders this year. And the teenagers say they feel safer there, despite the Foreign and Commonwealth office advising against all travel to Somalia and warning against the threat of terrorism across Kenya. One Somali mother, Amina, was interviewed on the BBC's Victoria Derbyshire programme and told the harrowing story of how her 15-year-old son was stabbed four times, just 17 days after he returned from a year-long stay in their homeland. One Somali mother, Amina (pictured), was interviewed on the BBC's Victoria Derbyshire programme and told the harrowing story of how her 15-year-old son was stabbed four times, just 17 days after he returned from a year-long stay in their homeland She said: 'They damaged his bladder, his kidneys, his liver. He's got permanent damage. 'He was safer there [in Somaliland] than he was here, 100 per cent more safe than in London.' Last year the Foreign Office named Somalia the 13th most dangerous country in the world due to its constant threat of terrorism. And yet two in five Somalian families in London are sending their children home to avoid the knife crime epidemic hitting the capital, according to the mayor of Islington. Hundreds of British parents are sending their teenage children back to East Africa to avoid the knife crime epidemic that has struck London and seen 51 murders this year London vs Mogadishu: Murder rates Somalian parents living in London are sending their children back to their home country even though the murder rates in its capital, Mogadishu, are far worse. Based on the most recent data, Mogadishu saw 1,376 murders in 2017, whereas London saw just less than a tenth of that number at 129. With a population of 2.425million, Mogadishu's murder rate is 56.75 per 100,000 people. However, with a population of 8.825million London's murder rate is 1.46 per 100,000. While the figures should speak for themselves, past incidents may indicate that young men from East Africa are more at risk of being killed in London. One mother, Fowsiya Abdi, 48, has lost two sons and a nephew to stabbings in London in the past two years. Advertisement Britain's latest crime statistics Last year, homicides rose by 6% year-on-year to 732 offences. Robbery offences rose by 11%, to a total of 82,566. There were 40,829 police-recorded offences involving a knife or sharp instrument - a 6% increase. The number of violent offences was more than 1,608,500 last year - a 19% increase on 2017. Total police-recorded crime, excluding fraud and computer misuse, stood at 5.2 million offences in 2018 - up 7%. Advertisement Mayor Rakhia Ismail, a mother of four who came to London as a Somalian refugee, said that parents are making the drastic decision because they believe it will save their child's life. So far this year 100 people have been stabbed to death in the UK. According to the BBC, eight per cent of the victims were of Somali heritage. Earlier this morning a man in his 30s was stabbed to death in London, sparking the capital's 51st murder probe this year. The most recent crime statistics show that there are two killings every day on Britain's streets - the highest level in a decade. A mentor of young Somali men in London, Jamal Hassan, explained on the Victoria Derbyshire programme that parents will do anything to protect their child. A mentor of young men in London, Jamal Hassan, explained that parents will do anything to protect their child. He said: 'If it means that child doesn't finish school, college, university or he will not have a good job by the time you come for them the future is not really important' He said: 'If it means that child doesn't finish school, college, university or he will not have a good job by the time you come for them the future is not really important. 'What is important is that child's life.' Yusuf, a 21-year-old boy who grew up in London that did not want to be identified, told Mr Hassan that he moved to Nairobi because he was seeing people get stabbed 'every other day'. Two in five Somalian families in London are sending their children home to avoid the knife crime epidemic hitting the capital, according to the mayor of Islington - Rakhia Ismail He said: 'There are people in my neighbourhood, someone who I really knew, who lost his life.' Ms Ismail said: 'Does the parent wait for her child to be killed? 'Or does the parent take a decision - quite a drastic decision - to take him all the way back to wherever that child is from originally?' One mother who sent her child to Africa in a bid to avoid London's knife crime said she can now sleep at night knowing that the police sirens she hears have nothing to do with her son. London's latest stabbing comes just two days after a 23-year-old was knifed multiple times in Tower Hamlets at 4.30pm in the afternoon. He was the 50th victim so far this year - and it was the eighth murder in the capital this month as Britain struggles to get to grips with a knife epidemic. LONDON'S MURDERS IN 2019 Where the 49 murders in the capital so far this year have been committed Jan 1: Charlotte Huggins, 32, Camberwell Jan 1: Tudor Simionov, 33, Mayfair Jan 4: Simbiso Aretha Moula, 39, Rainham Jan 6: Sarah Ashraf, 35, Isle of Dogs Jan 7: Jayden Moody, 14, Waltham Forest Jan 11: Asma Begum, 31, Canning Town Jan 27: Kamil Malysz, 34, Acton Jan 29: Nedim Bilgin, 17, Islington Feb 4: Carl Thorpe, 46, Highgate Feb 5: Lejean Richards, 19, Battersea Feb 10: Dennis Anderson, 39, East Dulwich Feb 18: Bright Akinlele, 22, Camden Feb 19: Brian Wieland, 69, Chingford Feb 21: Glendon Spence, 23, Brixton Feb 22: Kamali Gabbidon-Lynck, 19, Wood Green Feb 25: David Lopez-Fernandez, 38, Tower Hamlets Feb 26: Che Morrison, 20, Ilford Mar 1: Jodie Chesney, 17, Harold Hill Mar 2: Elize Linda Stevens, 50, Hendon Mar 2: Jolia Bogdan, 3 months, Croydon Mar 3: Unnamed man, 37, Soho Mar 6: Laureline Garcia-Bertaux, 34, Kew Mar 6: David Martinez, 26, Leyton Mar 7: Antoinette Donnegan, 52, Battersea Mar 7: Ayub Hassan, 17, West Kensington Mar 16: Nathaniel Armstrong, 29, Fulham Mar 22: Abdirashid Mohamoud, 17, Isleworth Mar 24: Ravi Katharkamar, 54, Pinner Mar 27: Ramane Richard Wiggan, 25, West Norwood Mar 28: Zahir Visiter, 25, Regents Park Mar 29: Gavin Garraway, 40, Clapham Apr 1: Calvin Bungisa, 22, Kentish Town Apr 2: Hubert Hall, 60, Walthamstow Apr 7: Annabelle Lancaster, 22, Enfield Apr 8: Noore Bashir Salad, 22, Manor Park Apr 16: Gopinath Kasivisuwanathan, 27, Wembley Apr 17: Steven Brown, 47, Stoke Newington Apr 23: Meshak Williams, 21, Harlesden Apr 26: Mihrican Mustafa, 38, Canning Town Apr 26: Henriett Szucs, 34, Canning Town Apr 26: Amy Parsons, 35, Whitechapel Apr 26: Joshua White, 29, Hackney May 1: Tashaun Aird, 15, Hackney May 5: Constantin Sin, 51, Leytonstone May 5: Junior Urugbezi-Edwards, 18, Southwark May 11: Erik San-Filippo, 23, Islington May 16: Barrington Davis, 54, Lewisham May 23: Unnamed man, 60s, Kensington May 23: Unnamed woman, 60s, Kensington May 26: Unnamed woman, 23, Tower Hamlets May 28: Unnamed man, 30s, Newham The Somali mother who lost three boys to knife crime in London Fowsiya Abdi, 48, has lost two sons and a nephew in the past two years. All three were stabbed to death on the streets of London. Her son, aspiring accountant Sadiq Adan Mohamed, 20, rang her as he lay dying, leaving her a voicemail message begging for help, saying, 'I'm wounded,' just moments after he was attacked by a gang of four wielding a samurai sword. The aspiring accountant, Sadiq Adan Mohamed, (pictured) was found with serious stab wounds in Belsize Park, north London His brother Mohamed Aadam (left), was stabbed to death in September 2017, some four years after and their cousin Mohamed Abdullahi (right) was stabbed to death in 2013 Mrs Abdi called for anyone carrying a blade to be 'taken off the streets'. She spoke of her agony after her elder son and nephew, both 20, were also killed within a mile of each other in London in separate attacks. Last September Mrs Abdi's elder son Mohamed Aadam was knifed to death outside a takeaway. In 2013 his cousin Mohamed Abdullahi was also fatally stabbed in the heart in a case of mistaken identity by a gang. She said: 'I don't know who killed my son, I do not know why. But in September Mohamed was killed and now Sadiq has been killed, and four years ago my nephew was too. They were all 20. 'It's unacceptable, I am now so worried for my other children, they all live in the same postcode. Sadiq was an excellent boy, he was very close to me and his family.' Advertisement The number of homicides - which includes murder and manslaughter cases - dropped between 2009 and 2014- but has since risen sharply There has been a marked increase in the number of knife crimes in the last three years Activists staged an impassioned protest in a busy Nando's as they attempted to persuade the chain to make its entire menu vegan. Members of the 'Occupy Nando's' group held a demonstration in the restaurant in Thanet, Kent, as bemused families ate their dinner over the bank holiday weekend. But the embattled campaigners' pleas calling for 'total animal liberation' appeared to fall on deaf ears as diners continued to tuck into their food and seemed to ignore their loudspeaker address. Members of the 'Occupy Nando's' group held a demonstration in the Nando's in Thanet Video footage shows the campaigners promoting a plant-based lifestyle while families carried on tucking in to their food. The rally on Saturday night saw one activist use a loudspeaker to address the staff and customers for around fifteen minutes, as her companion showed distressing footage to diners. As the group left the premises at the Westwood Cross shopping centre near Margate, customers could be heard cheering and clapping. It follows accusations that birds reared on farms supplying Nando's, Lidl and Asda have been abused - claims which are being examined by company Avara Foods. During the protest, the group of three played footage filmed by animal activist groups which appeared to show workers standing on birds to break their necks. An Occupy Nando's spokeswoman said: 'We wanted to make Nando's customers aware of the way chickens are exploited for their flesh so they can make an informed choice if they wish to go on consuming violence. '[We] urge Nando's to make their entire menu vegan. 'We are not asking for better conditions for these animals, we want total animal liberation and will keep showing up in places that sell this violence until that happens.' The rally on Saturday night saw one activist use a loudspeaker to address the staff and customers for around fifteen minutes On the group's Facebook page, they say the protests are part of a bid 'to bring awareness to the suffering that lead to their meal' and outlines how campaigners can deal with police if they turn up. It follows a similar rally in Brighton last week where protesters wore chicken masks. A Nando's spokesman said: 'We can confirm that there was a small organised disturbance in our Thanet restaurant on Saturday night and we are sorry for those customers who had their meals interrupted. 'We worked with the police to minimise any disruption in a peaceful way and allow our customers to enjoy their meal and have a great night'. A police spokesman added: 'We were called at 8.25pm on May 25 to reports of a protest at Westwood Cross. 'The protestors were leaving when officers attended and there were no arrests.' This follows harrowing footage released earlier this month which shows workers 'failing to properly euthanise' chickens at farms supplying Lidl, Asda and Nandos. Video and photos appear to show injured and distressed birds living in cramped conditions at the sites across Northamptonshire, which serve some of the UK's major supermarkets. The footage has been released by the charity Animal Equality, which claims workers can be seen breaking birds' necks and leaving them to die over several minutes on the floor. The group also claims the birds were left to die before being pecked at by other chickens, and were kicked and stamped on by farm workers. Donald Trump's promise of a trade deal with Japan by August has been shot down by Japanese officials just a day after the US President made the comments. On Monday, Trump indicated the two countries would straighten out their differences rapidly and said a trade announcement would come within months. Trump's optimism came following a meeting with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the president's four-day state visit. But Japans economy minister played down expectations today, describing Trumps words as wishful thinking. President Donald Trump promised of a trade deal with Japan by August after a meeting on Monday with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (pictured together) But Japans economy minister Toshimitsu Motegi has played down expectations and said Trump was 'voicing his hopes of swift progress in talks' Toshimitsu Motegi told reporters at a cabinet meeting: When you look at the exact wording of his comments, you can see that the president was voicing his hopes of swift progress in talks toward something that is mutually beneficial. Trump was in Japan to meet Japan's new emperor Naruhito and hash out a trade deal with the prime minister. Washington and Tokyo have been spatting over tariffs on cars and agricultural products for months. Trump has repeatedly complained about the trade imbalance between the two sides, especially in automobiles, and has threatened Japan and European carmakers with tariffs. The US had a 67.6 billion trade deficit in goods with Japan last year, according to the office of the US Trade Representative. In April Japan's exports to the U.S. jumped nearly 10 per cent, while imports of American goods rose 2.3 per cent. Trump has complained repeatedly about the trade imbalance between the two sides - after it emerged the US had a 67.6billion deficit in goods with Japan last year Japan's trade surplus surged almost 18 per cent to 723 billion yen ($6.6bn). Its imports from the U.S. are dominated by food, chemicals, machinery and devices. The Trump administration has designated auto imports as a threat to U.S. national security, though the government has delayed a decision on raising tariffs on imported cars for six months. Apart from cars, Washington is also worried American farm products won't get a fair deal, as Japan forges trade pacts with Australia and Europe. The Midwest is braced for more severe weather with 'record levels' of flooding expected over the next few days. The warnings come just days after six people were killed and 29 injured in Oklahoma and seven people died in Missouri after tornadoes struck on Friday and Saturday. Among the dead included an elderly couple who were sucked out of their mobile home in Golden City, Oklahoma, and hurled 600ft in the air. Tornadoes slammed into Dayton, Ohio, last night and others tore across Indiana this morning, leaving a trail of devastation. At least two other tornadoes touched down near Dayton, including one near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, just east of Dayton, local media reported. The latest storm comes after tornadoes and floods killed at least six people in Oklahoma over the weekend, including two people in El Reno, near the state capital, on Saturday. The extent of injuries and damage in Ohio is not clear at this stage. Homes were left flooded near the Arkansas River in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on Friday. The state, along with others in the Midwest, are braced for more torrential rain and storms A large tree crashed through the roof of a home near Newton and St. Louis Avenue in Tulsa. A man was rescued from inside the building On Monday evening there were flash flood watches in effect in parts of Wyoming, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Illinois and Nebraska. Severe thunderstorm warning were in effect in Nebraska and northeastern Kansas, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). More than 100 tornadoes were reported across eight states including Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma, Iowa, Maryland and Illinois from last Monday to Thursday. In response to the flood watches, the Department of Transportation closed two bridges over the Arkansas River in Fort Smith. Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson granted $100,000 of emergency funding in response to flood warnings. A statement from the governor's office said the flooding 'is expected to reach record levels throughout the state in the coming week'. Governor Hutchinson said: 'This morning, the Arkansas National Guard, Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, and Arkansas State Police provided me with a detailed briefing about the state's ongoing support efforts in communities experiencing record flood levels along the Arkansas River. A car becoming stranded in high water after rain flooded the street after storms near 43rd and S. Sheridan in Tulsa Tornado damage across homes in Jefferson City, Missouri. More than 100 tornadoes were reported across eight states in three days - including Missouri 'I have received a number of requests for aid from communities, and I immediately approved the release of $100,000 of emergency funds to support sandbagging work. 'I appreciate all the neighbors and volunteers filling sandbags and assisting with evacuations. The state team is continuing to respond to assistance requests, and more funds will be allocated as the situation demands.' The National Weather Service said multiple tornadoes were reported in the Dayton area between 11pm Monday and 1am Tuesday. Seven people were reported injured in the storm in Pendleton, Indiana, on Monday, about 100 miles west of Dayton, according to media reports, including CNN. More damage was reported in Celina, Ohio, about 78 miles north of Dayton. Flooded areas of Arkansas and Oklahoma were bracing for more rain that will feed the already swollen Arkansas River, forecasters said on Monday. An aerial image showing the Arkansas River with the Tulsa skyline after severe flooding and torrential rain last Thursday Arkansas, Oklahoma and Missouri have all activated National Guard units to respond to the storms. Early on Tuesday, President Donald Trump tweeted his support for Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, a Republican, and for those who suffered from storm damage in Oklahoma. Trump promised support from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Trump wrote on Twitter: 'Told him that @fema and the federal government are fully behind him and the great people of Oklahoma.' Millions of Americans were under flood warnings on the Memorial Day holiday. Deluges hit Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois. In Tulsa, officials were monitoring the Arkansas River after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers raised the flow at the upriver Keystone Dam by 65 per cent since last week to 275,000 cubic feet per second. The heavier flow is testing two aging levees in Tulsa, the city said. In Missouri, tornadoes and severe storms killed three people and destroyed or damaged hundreds of homes last week. Ghost hunters claim they have discovered a new spirit in Britain's most haunted house - after snapping a picture of a 'female child ghoul' staring straight at the camera. Jason Whitnell, 49 and his team visited the infamous 30 East Drive in Pontefract, West Yorks, dubbed 'the home of the Black Monk' for its connection with what is reportedly Europe's most violent poltergeist. Jason claims while the team were taking routine pictures of the outside of the house they spotted the spectral dark figure of a child. A chilling picture shows what appears to be a small figure stood by the front door which is staring straight at the camera Another snap taken with a night-vision camera shows a dark figure inside a room in the home The team visited the home with the intention of debunking the myths around the property A chilling picture shows what appears to be a small figure stood by the opened front door which is staring straight at the camera Another eerie snap taken with a night-vision camera on the same evening shows a dark figure inside a room in the home. Exhilarated Jason, from Barnet, Hertfordshire, said the snaps are definitive proof a new ghost is now haunting the home, which first hit the headlines in the 1960s as the site of one of Britain's most notorious alleged hauntings. Exhilarated Jason (pictured), from Barnet, Herts, said this is definitive proof a new ghost is now haunting the home, which first hit the headlines in the 1960s as the site of one of Britain's most notorious alleged hauntings. He said: 'We always knew there was more to this house than history would have you believe. 'When we arrived, we set up our equipment and split into two teams to try to increase the chance of obtaining some evidence. 'For the best part of the evening the house seemed very quiet and after five or so hours of investigations we rested. 'It was just after 3am that we had a cup of tea and decided to get an hour of sleep. 'All four of us settled down in the lounge, two fell asleep pretty much from the off but myself and Paul Cowan just couldn't settle. 'We went outside and stepped away from the house to take pictures of it. 'You can see the figure of what looks like a child standing there looking directly at us - it was a female figure staring our way. 'We have looked at the front of this house many times and have scoured it from top to bottom to confirm there's no mistakes. 'You simply can't unsee it once you've seen it.' The team visited the home with the intention of debunking the myths around the property. The team of ghosthunters (pictured) do not believe the figure they photographed was the infamous so-called Black Monk but another, new ghost Jason and his team of investigators from his business, 'Ghosts of London', were hugely excited by their findings. They do not believe the figure they photographed was the infamous so-called Black Monk but another, new ghost. Paul, who has been working with spirits for 17 years, said: 'We were truly excited as we knew there was more to this place than what people are led to believe. 'The feeling I got was exhilarating! It's such a passion to prove there is existence of the paranormal. 'We intend to return to continue our research but we are thrilled with what we caught.' An Irish couple has made one final plea for their family to stay in the country as their Australian-born son prepares to be deported because of health issues. Christine and Anthony Hyde have urged new Immigration Minister David Coleman to intervene after their application for permanent residency was denied. The Australian Government determined that the $300,000 treatment a year for their son Darragh - who suffers from cystic fibrosis - would be a burden on taxpayers. With the visa cut-off date set for June 18, the family has urged the government to intervene in a bid to stay in Australia. Already, a number of state and federal politicians have thrown their support behind the family. Christine and Anthony Hyde have urged new Immigration Minister David Coleman to intervene after their application for permanent residency was denied (pictured, Anthony, Darragh and Christine) The Australian Government determined that the $300,000 treatment ayear for their son Darragh - who suffers from cystic fibrosis - would be a burden on taxpayers With the visa cut-off date set for June 18, the family has urged the government to intervene in a bid to stay in Australia 'This family is effectively Aussie and they have contributed over the past 10 years,' Premier Daniel Andrews told Herald Sun. Christine and Anthony originally come from Dublin, but have been living in Seymour since 2009. Anthony volunteers for the State Emergency Service while Christine works as special needs schoolteacher. Mr Andrews said their contribution to the community outweighed the medical costs for the couple's son. 'There will be some costs to medical treatment, but there will be so many more benefits to that local community.' Federal McEwen MP Rob Mitchell joined rank to praise the family and their community spirit. 'This family is not a burden on Australia, they are contributing in a positive way to their community.' Christine earlier told Daily Mail Australia she was having trouble coming to terms with the looming deportation date. 'It's quite surreal to be honest. It's really hard to believe there's a possibility that we have to leave. 'This is our home. I don't even know where to begin. Are we supposed to be packing?' Christine and her partner had applied for permanent residency in August 2015, weeks before they welcomed their son Darragh into the world. Christine said the cystic fibrosis medication has done 'wonders' for her son and she's extremely grateful for his 'fantastic' health. 'He had his normal checkup yesterday and they're extremely happy with him, he's travelling well,' she said. 'We've been very lucky, Darragh has never had any hospital admissions or any major things really, other than this diagnosis. Christine and Anthony originally come from Dublin, but have been living in Seymour since 2009 Christine and her partner had applied for permanent residency in August 2015, weeks before they welcomed their son Darragh into the world 'We're pretty blessed that way. 'He's just a normal three-year-old, you wouldn't know any different unless I told you.' But the application for residency was denied by the Australian Department of Home Affairs who assessed Darragh's diagnosis as burden on the Australian community. A medical officer first determined the three-year-old's condition as severe, and believed he would need a lung transplant. Though on later inspection, the three-year-old was found to unlikely need a transplant. He still has to take the drug Kalydeco, which is subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and costs $300,000 a year. 'We've been very lucky, Darragh has never had any hospital admissions or any major things really, other than this diagnosis,' Christine said. 'We're pretty blessed that way. 'He's just a normal three-year-old, you wouldn't know any different unless I told you.' The family have a Change.org petition where the Australian community have rallied behind Darragh's story. More than 76,000 people have signed the petition. Daily Mail Australia contacted the Department of Home Affairs for comment. A teenager allegedly murdered by his mother went to school with a yellow Mohawk to raise cash for a friend who was dying of cancer, it has been revealed. Tristan Barrass, 13, appeared on a BBC series called 'Our School' in 2017 in which he was filmed in class with his dyed hair. The youngster, who died alongside his brother Blake Barrass, 14, at a house in the Shiregreen area of Sheffield on Friday, is filmed being quizzed by teachers on his hairstyle. Tristan, who according to the documentary was known around the school for his distinctive hair styles, tells them: 'My friend is dying of bone cancer, I asked if I could dye my hair yellow for him. His favourite colour is yellow.' Tristan Barrass, 13, appeared on a BBC series called 'Our School' in 2017 in which he was filmed in class with his dyed hair He added that his hair 'makes me who I want to be. With normal hair, you look like any other person.' In another clip Tristan is seen laughing and joking with school friends in assembly. Our School is a fly on the wall documentary that follows the everyday lives of the staff and pupils in secondary schools, as pupils move from Year 6 into Year 7. The footage has emerged as his mother Sarah Barrass was remanded in custody today accused of murdering her two sons. She will stand trial later in the year accused of killing Tristan and brother Blake alongside the boy's uncle Brandon Machin, 37, who is also charged with murder. The youngster, who died alongside his brother Blake Barrass, 14 is filmed being quizzed by teachers on his hairstyle Other clips show Tristan in school with dyed blue hair, laughing and joking with friends The pair appeared at Sheffield Crown Court this morning for a short ten minute hearing. Judge Roger Thomas QC fixed a trial date for November 12 and said the pair will appear again on June 21. Barrass is also charged with three counts of attempted murder against two other children. At the end of the hearing, Judge Thomas remanded the pair in custody. Sarah Barrass and Brandon Machin appeared at Sheffield Crown Court this morning for a short ten minute hearing Sarah Barrass (pictured, left) and Brandon Machin (pictured, right) have been accused of murdering the two teenagers and appeared in court today Police were called to a property in the wider Shiregreen area of the city at around 7.30am on Friday, and arrested Barrass and Machin. Up to 15 police cars, two riot vans and four ambulances descended on the home, while the air ambulance landed at a nearby primary school on Friday morning. Dozens of floral tributes were left outside the family's home that was still sealed off behind police tape on Friday. A steady stream of tearful school children brought flowers, balloons and teddy bears to the scene. An online fundraising drive has been launched to help the surviving children. Sarah Barrass is accused of killing sons Tristan (right) and Blake (left) at their home in Sheffield Tristan Barrass, 13 (left) and Blake Barrass, 14 (right) died following what police described as a 'major' incident at a house in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, on Friday Floral tributes left at the scene of the Shiregreen, Sheffield One tribute read: Just no words. Rest in paradise little ones. Fly high with the Angels' Another tribute left at the scene read: 'The most caring person I knew you have left a hole in all of our hearts you have gained your winds too soon forever in our hearts fly safe' The fence outside the home where the boys died is now covered in floral tributes Gill Furniss, Labour MP for Sheffield Brightside and Hillsborough, said she was 'deeply saddened by the tragic incident'. Detectives have so far given no indication about the nature of the incident, but have confirmed it was confined to one property and was not a shooting. Police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. The entire shoreline of a Southern California city is closed to swimmers after sewage-contaminated runoff flowed into California from Mexico's Tijuana River. The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that the San Diego County Department of Environment Health issued the order Sunday. They are expanding on the closure that has been in place for months for part of the Imperial Beach coast - which now encompasses the whole shoreline in the city. Officials say more than 110 million gallons (416 million liters) of toxic storm water has flowed north from Mexico since April, making the picturesque spot dangerous to swimmers. Authorities often are forced to close a stretch of beaches near the border because of sewage contamination from the southern Tijuana River. The signs used are pictured at Imperial Beach The southern part of the coast along the Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge has been closed since November last year. The national park straddles the US-Mexico border with a large metal border fence reaching out into the sea along the coastline. The waterways are connected by the 193 km-long Tijuana River which has carried the affected water north with the river mouth at the north Pacific coast the affected area. A heavily polluted section of shoreline, contaminated by water from the Tijuana River The closure will be in place until testing shows the water is safe. Signs warning people of the contaminated water have been placed on beaches as the 'continuing' problem infects the picturesque coastline. The signs read 'exposure may cause illness', but some people continue to take a dip regardless. California and the cities of Imperial Beach and Chula Vista sued the Trump administration last year over the recurring toxic flows from Mexico. The shoreline in Imperial Beach, California. It is connected to Mexico by the Tijuana River Chula Vista is situated on the San Diego Bay, just north east of Imperial Beach. The lawsuit seeks to force the U.S. government to upgrade the collection system that diverts flows to a wastewater treatment plant. In January, high tides saw the city's streets flooded with raw sewage from Mexico. 'It's hard to sort of talk about how polluted this water is,' Mayor Serge Dedina said at the time. 'It's raw sewage. It's the worst stuff you could possibly imagine.' The mayor said the Trump government seems to be fine with his city and surrounding areas 'being the open sewer for Tijuana.' Courtney Herron's grieving mother has remembered her loving 'but so vulnerable' daughter - and revealed her final wish before she died. The 25-year-old's badly bashed body was found in a park in Melbourne's inner-north on Saturday, after she reportedly attended a social event with her accused killer Henry Hammond, 27. Ms Herron's mother, Maxie, described the young woman as a 'damaged bird' who struggled to overcome a drug addiction and find safe accommodation. 'She might have been 25, but she was so at risk. Believing, trusting, loving, but she was so vulnerable,' she told The Age. Courtney Herron's (right) mother, Maxie (left), described the young woman as a 'damaged bird' who struggled to overcome a drug addiction and find safe accommodation The 25-year-old's badly bashed body was found in a park in Melbourne 's inner-north on Saturday A message left by Courtney Herron's grandmother at the scene. She cried to the skies as if looking for answers as to why her beloved had been taken away The mother and grandmother of Melbourne woman Courtney Herron threw themselves onto the spot she was allegedly murdered on and cried to the sky for answers this week Ms Herron's life turned to turmoil when she ended up in a bad crowd and begun to use ice, her mother said. But things seemingly took a brighter turn when Ms Herron fell in love with Turkish refugee Ahmet Ozkurt in 2015, who wanted to save her from addiction. 'He tried to control the drug intake, be there for her mental health, protect her against people who she associated with, that whole horrible world. She did not fit into that and he knew that,' Maxie said. The young couple were planning to marry, but their three-year relationship came to a sudden end when he was taken to immigration detention centre for an expired visa. Maxie said Ms Herron was 'destroyed' and blamed herself for Mr Ozkurt's fate. 'Courtney was destroyed and said, ''I did this, I destroyed him. He doesn't deserve to be there. He loves me and he tried to help me. Please help me Mum, make this right.'' So I became his advocate,' Maxie said. Ms Herron fell in love with Turkish refugee Ahmet Ozkurt in 2015, who wanted to save her from addiction Mr Ozkurt spoke about his former girlfriend in video footage shared with Nine News Maxie has written to politicians, the ombudsman and the immigration department to push for Mr Ozkurt's release. She hopes Ms Herron will look down from Heaven with her grandfather (right) to see she's made it a reality She is fighting to for Ms Herron's final wish - to get Mr Ozkurt free from the detention centre. Maxie has written to politicians, the ombudsman and the Immigration Department to push for his release. She hopes Ms Herron will look down from Heaven with her grandfather to see she's made it a reality. The refugee spoke about his 'friendly' and 'always smiling' former girlfriend from the centre, in video footage shared with Nine News. 'I still can't believe that this has happened to her,' Mr Ozkurt said. 'I'm still thinking maybe it's somebody else.' Mr Ozkurt said Ms Herron didn't deserve to die. 'She was trying really hard to fix her life but this drug problem, it's not easy,' he said. Throwing their hands into the air and seemingly asking God to respond, family of the 25-year old made their way to Royal Park just before midday on Monday Maxie said the family 'tried so hard' to help Ms Herron overcome her addiction, but it took its toll. The last time Ms Herron saw her family was during Greek Easter and the 25-year-old briefly stayed with her grandmother before leaving abruptly in the middle of the night. She said her daughter would sometimes be given accommodation by the department but it was usually inadequate. Meanwhile, Ms Herron's friend Jessica Bateman has slammed the system which failed to protect her from homelessness and drug abuse. 'She was trying to get into public housing, she was trying to get on methadone or suboxone or Xanax or something that would stop the withdrawal symptoms she was going to face and the fear of withdrawal is really what kept her using,' Ms Bateman told The Project on Monday. Ms Bateman said homelessness was the ultimate cause of Ms Herron's death but admitted sleeping rough was more difficult for women than men. Ms Herron had been couch surfing for up to two years before her death Ms Herron's life turned to turmoil when she ended up in a bad crowd and begun to use ice, her mother said 'Because women are more vulnerable than men being homeless and you know men can attack them, take advantage of them and it's just, especially when it concerns mental illness and drugs,' she said. Ms Herron had been couch surfing for up to two years before her death. Another former partner, Terrick Norris, told The New Daily Ms Herron would turn up at his door about once a month. 'She was never living on the streets, she was always couch surfing. I let her stay at mine a bunch of times and so did her mother. But she was addicted to drugs and sometimes it got a bit too much,' he said. Maxie and Ms Herron's grandmother visited the spot where she was allegedly murdered on Monday about midday. Mourners lay flowers at the tragic scene where Courtney Herron's life was cut short The last time Ms Herron saw her family was during Greek Easter and the 25-year-old briefly stayed with her grandmother before leaving abruptly in the middle of the night 'I love you my sweetheart Courtney,' her grandmother wrote on flowers left at the scene. 'You will always be in my heart. You are now in a better place with your pappou.' Throwing their hands into the air and seemingly asking God to respond with the answers, devastated relatives of the 25-year-old made their way to Royal Park. Maxie wrote: 'To our beloved Courky, Forever in our hearts ... Find internal peace with Pappou - You will be forever safe with him. Love mum, Chris, Sian and LuLu.' Ms Herron's uncle, who would only give his name as Peter, told Daily Mail Australia that his family was 'distraught'. 'She was the most gentle, kind-hearted person you could meet. She was just such a lovely person,' he said. 'She always had been. Just lovely. She was beautiful, she was so trusting of people.' Hammond appeared in court with no shoes, a smile on his face and a black eye on Monday. The court heard he had a possible autism spectrum disorder and had been prescribed ritalin for ADHD. Magistrate Donna Bakos said police could have until August 5 to prepare the documents and ordered Hammond, of no fixed address, be remanded in custody until a committal mention on September 16. This is heart-wrenching moment a baby elephant is seen trying to wake up its mother which collapsed and died after wandering into a village in India. The calf used its trunk to stroke its mother's head as she lay motionless on the ground in Hiran village, in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. The ailing mother elephant with its baby in tow had strayed into the community which lies near the Khalasuni jungle in the Deogarh district. The injured mother elephant and her young calf strayed into Hiran village in Odisha on April 7 The baby elephant was filmed trying to wake up its mother who died of wound injuries in eastern India Initially, the villagers took care of the elephant and its calf, providing them with food, water and applying herbal medicine on the wounds on her right leg and forehead. They informed the forest rangers about the presence of the female and its calf in their village. According to the villagers, the elephant had apparently broken its right leg, likely from falling into a pit. She also had a wound on her forehead. For the first few days, the limping elephant was somehow able to move around on its own. But as the wound worsened, she collapsed on the ground and was unable to stand on her feet again. The villagers (pictured) and veterinary doctors were unable to save the mother elephant, who sustained a broken leg after she fell into a ditch Over the last six weeks, the elephant underwent treatment in the village from vet veterinary doctors assigned by forest rangers. But although they tried their best to cure the elephant, they were unable to save the mother's life. The baby elephant, unaware of the fact that its mother had died, could be seen innocently trying to wake her up. Tom Hardy is preparing for his toughest role yet as the hard-drinking killer who helped found the SAS in the creator of Peaky Blinders' new drama. The brawny British actor is expected to be cast as Lieutenant-Colonel Blair 'Paddy' Mayne, a founding member of the elite regiment in 1941. The television programme, based on historian Ben Macintyre's book SAS: Rogue Heroes, will see Hardy, 41, reunite with Peaky Blinders writer Steven Knight - who worked with him when he played gangster Alfie Solomons. Peaky Blinders star Tom Hardy (pictured) is expected to play Lieutenant-Colonel Blair 'Paddy' Mayne, a founding member of the elite regiment in 1941 in a new television adaptation Ruthless: The 'redoubtable' Paddy Mayne pictured with a canine friend. was a 'brilliant soldier but a troubled soul with a very short fuse' It will rediscover the forming of the SAS and their actions in the Second World War but also delve into the psychology of the hardy killers. Knight, 60, told the Times: 'This will be a secret history telling the story of exceptional soldiers who decided battles and won wars only to then disappear back into the shadows.' 'We will shine a light on remarkable true events informed by the people who shaped them.' Who dares: SAS founder David Stirling (right) and his band of mavericks training in the desert in the early days of the SAS. The new programme will be based on Ben Macintyre's book SAS: Rogue Heroes Martin Haines, joint managing director for producers Kudos, added to Vanity: 'The sheer scale of the adventures brilliantly told by Ben, and the extraordinary and varied characters involved, make this an incredibly exciting project. 'With Steven on board we have the opportunity to redefine the genre completely.' In 2015, Hardy was seen with Mayne's biography on his car dashboard and has often expressed an interest in the army. Mayne's life was not as glamorous as Hardy's, with Macintyre's feelings towards the serviceman mixed. Special Air Service soldiers pose with an armoured vehicle in the Western Desert. In 2015 Hardy was seen with Mayne's biography on his car dashboard and has often expressed an interest in the army He said Mayne was a 'brilliant soldier but a troubled soul with a very short fuse', adding he was 'truculent, troubled, and dangerously unpredictable, particularly when drunk, which was often'. The Northern Irish-born soldier was '17 stone of highly volatile human explosive,' he said. In writing his book, Macintyre had access to a confidential, 500-page 'war diary' compiled by the SAS's archivists. It contained first-hand reports from those who took part in numerous clandestine operations, from the regiment's formation in 1941 until 1945. The tone was set by the 25-year-old David Stirling, an aristocratic Scots Guards officer renowned for heavy drinking and disobeying orders. Reckless but mannered: David Stirling raved action and the company of soldiers, but his boisterous exterior belied a lonely man prone to periodic depressions and inner turmoil. He described one of Mayne's decisions as an 'over-callous execution in cold blood' But the young solider managed to blag a meeting with a general and said Britain needed to deploy soldiers behind German lines in the war. Some influential soldiers such as General Bernard Montgomery dismissed 'the boy Stirling as 'mad, quite, quite mad', but Stirling took Winston Churchill's son Randolph on a mission to Benghazi who later told his father of the fun he had. Prime Minister Churchill sanction just under 100 men to form the Special Air Service regiment - with their first mission being to the Libyan desert in November 1941. The sabotage missions they embarked on in the Second World War involved trekking up to 300 miles across the Sahara, where they would pounce on German and Italian air bases, blow apart parked planes and kill any who tried to stop them. Winston Churchill talks to his son, Captain Randolph Churchill, at a North African airfield under the wing of an aircraft following the end of the Desert War in February 1943. Stirling took Winston Churchill's son Randolph on a mission to Benghazi who later told his father of the fun he had How did Winston Churchill save the SAS after its first mission to the Libyan desert ended in failure? Operation Squatter, was an unmitigated disaster. A huge storm, which Stirling had been warned about, blew him and his team many miles off target. Men were dragged along the desert floor to their deaths by their parachutes, which failed in the high winds. Only 21 of the 55 men survived - with two men critically injured left to die. Former Prime Minister Winston Churchill is photographed outside 10 Downing Street The objective was to blow up a series of German airfields but it was never achieved and Whitehall wanted answers. Officials thought spies should carry out the work of the force but the SAS prevailed with the backing of Churchill after his son, Randolph, was reported back to is father after being invited on a raid. When Churchill met Stirling in August 1942 the SAS had developed advanced survival techniques used in hit-and-run raids, while the mystery and intrigue around them increased at home. At a dinner party in Cairo where they met, Churchill was enthralled with Stirling and his accounts of his daring men. Stirling took the opportunity to propose an expansion of the SAS in size and scope which would also bring all other special forces under his control. Churchill gave him and his men his full backing with the proposals. Advertisement Some in the unit could be described as ultimate survivors, but others were natural killers. Mayne, who was Stirling's second in command, fit this category and was renown for doing more damage to enemy air power than any fighter pilot. But he took great pleasure in slaughter, with one extract retelling how he gunned down around 30 enemy soldiers when they were in the middle of a party. He 'kicked open the door and stood there with my Colt .45. We were a frightening sight, bearded and with unkempt hair. 'The Germans stared at us in complete silence until I said: 'Good evening', at which point a young German moved slowly backwards. I shot him, then turned and fired at another.' A heavily-armed jeep patrol from 'L' Detachment SAS in North Africa', January 18, 1943. The sabotage missions they embarked on in the Second World War involved trekking up to 300 miles across the Sahara, where they would pounce on German and Italian air bases David Stirling said he was 'was obliged to rebuke Paddy Mayne for over-callous execution in cold blood of the enemy' during their operation in the Libyan desert The desperate plight of the British Army in the winter of 1941, with the German field marshal Rommel's tanks on the move from Libya into Egypt and a major defeat on the cards gave Stirling his chance to prove the SAS. On December 5, 1941, the SAS took up residence in Jalo, a fly-blown, roastingly-hot oasis with a wooden fort deep in the vast Libyan desert. While Stirling was with 14 SAS recruits trying to sabotage Sirte, the largest airfield, 350 miles away from their base, Paddy Mayne had driven with the rest of the team, a dozen men in all, to Tamet, a different airfield 28 miles away. Dozens of planes were lined up. In single file the raiders slipped onto the airfield undetected and came across a large hut, from which a light shone and sounds of merriment could be heard. A party was going on. The Northern Irish-born soldier (pictured) was '17 stone of highly volatile human explosive,' Macintyre said Mayne and two of his men crept up to the door, guns drawn. Mayne recalled kicking open the door and seeing about 30 men inside: 'I stood there with my Colt .45, the others at my side with a Tommy gun and another automatic. The Germans stared at us. We were a peculiar and frightening sight, bearded and with unkempt hair. 'For what seemed like an age we just stood there looking at each other in complete silence, until I said: 'Good evening.' 'At that, a young German arose and moved slowly backwards. I shot him, turned and fired at another some six feet away. 'Then the submachine-gunners opened up. The room was by now in pandemonium.' Ordering four of his men to keep the Germans and Italians pinned down inside the mess hut, Mayne raced with the remaining six to attack the stationary planes. They set about sabotaging the airfield with Lewes bombs and time fuses. 'What lovely work,' murmured one of the men. Mayne's assault on the officers' mess was daring but also reckless, as it alerted the enemy to the attack before the first bomb had been planted. Killing highly-trained pilots was, arguably, an even more effective way of crippling enemy airpower than destroying the planes themselves, but it veered away from sabotage and close to assassination. Faced with the chance to kill at close quarters, it seems Mayne had been unable to stop himself. Stirling was shocked when the scale of the carnage was reported back to him. 'It was necessary to be ruthless,' he later wrote, 'but Paddy had overstepped the mark. I was obliged to rebuke him for over-callous execution in cold blood of the enemy.' David Stirling (circled) with two members of the SAS together with personnel of 'G' Patrol of the Long Range Desert Group Advertisement Even Stirling branded it an 'over-callous execution in cold blood'. The SAS continued to suffer huge losses of personnel - 34 dead, injured or missing in their first operation - but were a continued nuisance to the enemy. Their numerous hits caused disruption, but have been described as just pinpricks in the context of the war. Matters got worse when Stirling was captured on another botched mission and spent the rest of the war as a prisoner, ending up in the camp at Colditz. David Stirling: The 6ft 6in gambler with no respect for rules or authority In a short life, the aristocratic David Stirling had tried and failed at being an artist, architect, cowboy and mountaineer. World War II was his salvation. His mother was the daughter of Lord Lovat, the chief of Clan Fraser, and his father a distinguished general, an MP and master of a 15,000-acre estate. The parents drummed good manners into their six children, but otherwise largely left them to get on with their lives. They grew up stalking deer, hunting rabbits, fighting and competing. By the age of 17, he was 6 ft 6 in tall, a gangly beanpole, wilful, reckless but also exceptionally polite and socially at ease. He was sent down from Cambridge after misbehaving on a lavish scale and spending more time at Newmarket racecourse than on his studies. Stirling went to Paris to become an artist. He wore a beret and lived a louche, Left Bank life, but displayed little talent for painting. The same went for architecture, his next choice of profession, as well as his ambition to be the first person to climb Mount Everest, even though he suffered from vertigo. As he nonchalantly frittered away his dissolute life, unpaid bills mounted from his bookmaker, his tailor, his bank manager and even from a cowboy outfitter in Arizona, seeking payment for a saddle. When war broke out in 1939, he joined his fathers regiment, the Scots Guards, but was the most contradictory of soldiers: ambitious but unfocused, steeped in military traditions but allergic to discipline. He skipped parades and was always getting into trouble. With the inbred confidence that comes from high birth, he regarded rules as nuisances and was blithely unconstrained by convention. He showed no deference whatever to rank. SAS cap badge with the regiment's motto It was when he gravitated to the Commandos, the special operations army unit dubbed Churchills cut-throats for its undercover work, that his leadership qualities finally surfaced. He had an adamant faith in his own decisions and did exactly what he wanted to do, whether or not others thought his aims were sensible or even possible. The SAS came into being in part because its founder would not take no for an answer, either from those in authority or from those under his command. On a personal level, Stirling was a romantic, with an innate talent for friendship but little desire for physical intimacy. He had many women friends but relaxed only among men. A warrior monk, he craved action and the company of soldiers, but his boisterous exterior belied a lonely man prone to periodic depressions and inner turmoil. When the fighting was over, he embraced solitude. Advertisement For the rest of the war the troops worked to orders behind enemy lines in Italy, France and Germany. They aided the Allied advance to victory by destroying communications, collecting intelligence, training Resistance fighters and sustained horrible losses as the SS carried out Hitler's Commando Order to immediately execute any British saboteurs they caught. The SAS was stood down at the end of the Second World War but policymakers soon realised there was still a need for their covert operations and it was reinstated. Macintyre's 2016 book was made into a documentary series for BBC2 last year, but it has yet to be announced if the broadcaster will air the new show. Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay (pictured here in 2006) have had a public decade-long tete-a-tete Gordon Ramsay's restaurants made a turnover last year of 53.6 million, fresh accounts have revealed - just a week after his long-time rival Jamie Oliver's restaurants plunged into administration. Gordon Ramsay Restaurants (GRR), broke even last year as the group made a profit before tax of 500,000 in the year to August 31, 2018. It marks a recovery on the previous year, when pre-tax losses came to 3.8 million after a decline in sales. The collection of restaurants, which includes Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in well-heeled Chelsea, also reported a 30% increase in underlying earnings to 5.2 million. Turnover meanwhile jumped 4.3% to 53.6 million. The millionaire TV chef, 52, said the success of his business model was down to understanding what customers want or risk being 'left behind'. The news may come as a blow to his fellow TV chef, who was last week forced to close - with immediate effect - 22 of his 25 sites as his beleaguered chain Jamie's Italian - which had run up 71.5million in debt - appointed administrators, putting as many as 1,300 jobs at risk. Oliver, 43, said he was 'devastated' and 'deeply saddened by the outcome'. The pair's decade-long tete-a-tete has seen Oliver liken Ramsay to a 'dementia sufferer', after the Scottish chef mocked Jamie's cooking, referring to him as 'fat' and a 'one-pot wonder'. The warring pair have long traded public insults - but Ramsay insisted it was all in good faith in the name of 'banter', and Oliver even added it was 'good for PR'. But they have since put aside their differences after Ramsay offered Oliver an olive branch. Ramsay told the Mail On Sunday's Event Magazine it was 'appalling to see Jamie worry' so he 'reached out' - but their collaboration was not enough to save the Oliver restaurants from collapse last week. The father-of-five earlier this year welcomed baby Oscar with his wife Tanya. Back row from left, Megan, Holly, Gordon and Tana; front row, Jack and Tilly Speaking about his surge in profits today, Mr Ramsay said: 'Guests do not just expect a good plate of food, we are relentless with our food quality, that is a given. 'Our guests want to join us for all occasions be it social or business and then relax in a great environment. Mr Ramsay's dining empire will 'continue to expand' 'We have to understand our guests, what they want, where they are heading and we have to head there with them or be left behind.' It comes at a difficult time for the restaurant industry, with rising costs and fierce competition pushing several operators to shut up shop. However Mr Ramsay's dining empire said it will continue to expand, despite the headwinds in the sector. The group, which is led by chief executive Andy Wenlock, said it had tactically reviewed its current estate and invested in new concepts such as a private dining room at Heddon Street Kitchen and a lounge at Bread Street Kitchen. Following the launch of Street Pizza in April last year, plans are under way for the brand to open in two more sites and for the first Street Burger. GRR's current portfolio currently includes 15 restaurants in London and 23 internationally, with a combined total of seven Michelin stars across the business. Addressing his so-called feud with Oliver in Event Magazine, Mr Ramsay said their war of words came to an end last year. Oliver's beleaguered chain Jamie's Italian - which had run up 71.5million in debt - last week appointed administrators, putting as many as 1,300 jobs at risk The warring pair, pictured here in 2005, have long traded public insults - but Ramsay insisted it was all in good faith in the name of 'banter'. Oliver even added it was 'good for PR' He said: I put a phone call in to Jamie last year, seeing the s*** he was going through. We met at the Ivy Club, got absolutely p***** together and I tried to give him as much advice as I could. It was just unfair to see him being taken down.' Oliver had been forced to put 13 million of his own money into his company to save at least some of his restaurants from going bust, but he was being criticised for letting his staff down. Speaking before the news broke of last week's closures, Ramsay said: 'I thought: Ive been through what hes going through ten years ago, fighting to get my name clear and look after my business. 'It was appalling to see Jamie worry, so I reached out. I thought: this is our careers, its in our blood. Were those generous, vulnerable, talented individuals who know that everywhere you turn, left or right, theres someone trying to take advantage of you. 'So I said, What can I do to help this ship stop sinking? Our CEOs met and exchanged ideas.' Advertisement A Tornado Watch has been issued in four states after 53 twisters touched down in the Midwest overnight, leaving one dead and more than 130 others injured, as every county in Oklahoma is under a state of emergency. 'First Tornado Watch of the day has been issued,' the National Weather Service (NWS) tweeted Tuesday morning. 'It is for parts of New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia until 10pm EDT.' The weather service urged the public to 'get things in order now' just in case a tornado warning is issued later in the day. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management released a state map that shows all 77 counties in the state under a state of emergency declaration due to flooding, tornadoes and severe storms. Ohio officials said earlier on Tuesday that several 'rapid-fire' tornadoes left five million people without power in the state alone. Authorities also confirmed one death in Celina, Ohio, about 75 miles northwest of Dayton. Celina Mayor Jeffrey Hazel said that 81-year-old Melvin Dale Hannah died when a Chevrolet Station Wagon was blown into his house while he was sleeping. Scroll down for video A Tornado Watch has been issued in four states after 53 twister touched down in the Midwest overnight, leaving one dead and more than 130 others injured, as every county in Oklahoma is under a state of emergency. Debris is strewn about the front sidewalks of destroyed homes at the River's Edge apartment complex in Dayton, Ohio The fourth-grade classrooms are exposed at the Grafton Kennedy Elementary School in Dayton, Ohio The Northridge Shopping Center on North Dixie Highway in Dayton, Ohio, lies in shambles after the tornado. The shopping center housed a Family Dollar, a strip club, a tax service and many other small businesses A dog peers out from the door of a home that was destroyed by tornadoes that touched down in Brookville, Ohio Meanwhile, the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management released a state map (pictured) that shows all 77 counties in the state under a state of emergency declaration due to flooding, tornadoes and severe storms Hannah's next-door neighbor, Wendy Knapke, said she watched on as the vehicle was picked up by the tornado, flew over her house and crashed into the back half of Hannahs home. Recently widowed, Hannah lived alone and his body was discovered in his bedroom. He was described as 'an incredible father and an incredible man', to the Columbus Dispatch. Authorities said the most severe damage was reported in Celina. Hazel said there are 'areas that truly look like a war zone' in the city of some 10,000 people. Weather officials said an EF3 tornado hit Celina, but its speed is still being surveyed. Celina Fire Chief, Douglas Wolters, said as many as 90 homes have been damaged by the tornadoes that pounded through the region. Wolters estimates that 40 of the homes have significant damage and some were knocked off their foundations. Most people are staying with family or friends, but some went to a shelter in nearby Coldwater. 'First Tornado Watch of the day has been issued,' the National Weather Service (NWS) tweeted Tuesday. 'It is for parts of New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia until 10pm' Dayton area hospitals have reported at least 64 injuries since a wave of severe storms swept through. Weather experts said the 52 tornadoes were reported across eight states overnight and residents of Idaho, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio are still not in the clear as severe weather is forecast to continue through Tuesday and into Wednesday. A tally of storm reports posted online by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Storm Prediction Center shows that 14 suspected tornadoes touched down in Indiana, 10 in Colorado and nine in Ohio. Thunderstorms that spun off the Colorado tornadoes dropped hail as large as tennis balls, with pea-size hail reported in the Denver area. Nebraska was hit with hail more than 2 inches in diameter, and dozens of drivers pulled off Interstate 80 with broken windshields. Six suspected tornadoes were reported in Iowa, five in Nebraska, four in Illinois, three in Minnesota, while one was reported in Idaho. At least one person has died and 130 more were injured in Ohio after 'rapid-fire' tornadoes ripped through the state, leaving more than five million people without power. This aerial photo shows damage at the Westbrooke Village Apartment complex in Trotwood, Ohio Residents of Idaho, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio, are still not in the clear as severe weather is forecast to continue through Tuesday and into Wednesday. This photo shows another aerial view of the Westbrooke Village Apartment building in Trotwood, Ohio Residents of the Westbrooke Village Apartment in Trotwood, Ohio, are seen gathering items that they were forced to leave behind as they evacuated their homes Storm damaged homes are seen Tuesday morning after a tornado passed through the area overnight in Brookville, Ohio A Jeep is surrounded by debris from a destroyed building near Wagner Ford Road in Dayton, Ohio In Indiana and Ohio specifically, a rapid-fire line of apparent tornadoes tore across the states and were packed so closely together that one crossed the path carved by another. The storms strew debris so thick that at one point, highway crews had to use snowplows to clear Interstate 75. At least half a dozen communities from eastern Indiana through central Ohio suffered damage, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Mayor Hazel said that first responders rescued some people from their homes overnight and were making a third sweep Tuesday to check for anyone else who might be trapped. 'It is devastating,' he added. Elizabeth Long, a spokeswoman for the Kettering Health Network, said that dozens have been treated at local hospitals for minor injuries. 'We've had injuries ranging form lacerations to bumps and bruises from folks being thrown around in their houses due to the storms,' Long said. The daunting cleaning up process has already begun for some residents, with debris strewn across one home in Brookville, Oh A car ensnared in the branches of a collapsed tree outside the ruins of dilapidated Brookville home A copy of "Wicked" showing a picture of a menacing twister was uncannily found outside of a destroyed Brookville home A car was damaged by the garage it was parked in after it collapsed during the tornado in Trotwood, Ohio Deletha Shepard looks at what is left of her house on Tuesday after a tornado tore it's roof off in Trotwood, Ohio The kitchen cabinets are left standing in Ron and Marlene Snider's home in the Wheatland Acres subdivision in Celina, Ohio Eight-year-old Hayden Snider finds a way to entertain himself as his family cleans up the debris of his grandparents' home in the Wheatland Acres subdivision in Celina, Ohio Earlier on Tuesday, Montgomery County Sheriff Rob Streck said that 'there's been no real serious injuries' despite the significant damage in the area. The sheriff asked residents to avoid any areas with damage from the storms. 'There are multiple locations that have sustained extensive damage and the roads in those areas need to be kept clear so that emergency personnel can get through to help those in need,' a statement reads. According to the sheriff, there are also 'potentially dangerous situations with power lines down, unstable trees and possible gas leaks'. Dayton Fire Chief Jeffrey Payne also said that it was 'pretty miraculous' that there have been only minor injuries. Payne attributed the good news to people heeding early warnings. Residents say sirens started going off around 10.30pm Monday ahead of the storm. Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley urged residents to check on neighbors, especially those who are housebound. The power response will require a 'multi-day restoration effort,' utility Dayton Power & Light said in an early morning tweet. The company said 64,000 of its customers alone were without power. Ohio weatherman lambasts viewers complaining his live tornado bulletin was interrupting The Bachelorette By Sophie Wingate For Dailymail.com Ohio weatherman, Jamie Simpson, lost it on live TV after viewers complained that his severe weather warning was interrupting the reality show 'The Bachelorette' late on Monday. Simpson was giving updates on the tornado, which would go on to ravage the Dayton area later in the night, when he saw complaints pour in on social media. 'We have viewers complaining already, "just go back to the show."' Jamie Simpson lashed out at viewers who complained about his tornado updates interrupting a reality TV show 'No, we're not going back to the show, folks. This is a dangerous situation,' the Fox 45 meteorologist said. Simpson walked on screen to continue his rant facing the camera. 'It's your neighborhood. I'm sick and tired of people complaining about this. Our job here is to keep people safe and that's what we're going to do. 'Some of you complain that this is all about my ego. Stop, ok? Just stop right now. It's not.' Simpson then stormed off screen, snapping: 'I'm done with you people, I really am. This is pathetic.' Advertisement In a tweet, the city of Dayton urged residents to conserve water after the storms cut power to water plants and pump stations. 'Due to the widespread power outages we are asking all Dayton and Montgomery County customers to conserve water,' the city tweeted. 'We have lost power to both water plants and pump stations. First responders are performing search and rescue operations and debris clearing.' City Manager Shelley Dickstein later issued a boil advisory for residents. The advisory affects 'all water customers in Dayton and Montgomery County'. The city also said that generators are being rushed in. Heartbreaking images showed families visiting what's left of their homes to dig through the debris. Some found items to take with them, while others wept over the remnants of their houses. Others took photos of the damage and some were seen preparing to clean up their yards. Republican Gov Mike DeWine visited communities hard-hit by the tornadoes in the Dayton area. Brookeville resident Rod Moody sweeps nails out of the street in front of his son's home that was destroyed by tornadoes Susan Smith removes the dishes out of her sister-in-law's home that was also destroyed in the freak weather phenomenon Erica Bohannon leads reporters through her destroyed apartment on Tuesday morning in Trotwood, Ohio. She said the tornado passed through the area the night before and tore her roof off while she huddled with her son and dog in her bedroom closet Carl Shackleford Jr carries his father's memorial flag out of a tornado damaged apartment at the Westbrooke Village Apartment complex in Trotwood, Ohio Jeremy Sutter picks up items from his house on Woodhaven Avenue in Dayton, Ohio, on Tuesday morning Lins Bui gathers clothing from her home in Dayton, Ohio, on Tuesday morning. Bui received stitches on her face after being injured by a tornado the night before Latisha Anderson digs through her personal items in what remains of her home in Dayton, Ohio Deletha Shepard takes a photo of her house on Tuesday morning after the tornado touched down overnight in Trotwood, Ohio Ana Parra Marroquin cries in her bedroom at her residence in Dayton, Ohio, after her home was destroyed Sue Taulbee, 71, watches as her family works to collect memorabilia from her damaged house after a tornado touched down overnight in Brookville, Ohio Residents in and around Dayton, Ohio, were seen leaving their damaged homes or digging through debris for items just hours after a tornado tore through the area Residents and volunteers help clear debris from damaged homes resulting from the tornado storm system that passed through the region in Brookville, Ohio Several tornado warnings have been issued across the Mid-West in the past 48 hours Among areas he visited is Trotwood, an older Dayton suburb of some 24,500 people, that was hit by a tornado with 140mph winds. The NWS classified the Trotwood tornado as an EF3. An EF3 is considered a strong tornado that does severe damage, rated on a scale of EF0 through EF5. During his visits, DeWine spoke with President Donald Trump. 'Storms overnight across Ohio and many other States were very dangerous and damaging. My team continues to update me with reports from emergency managers in the States affected. Listen to your local officials and be resilient. We are with you!' Trump tweeted Tuesday afternoon. He followed that tweet up with another that said he had just spoken with DeWine. Ohio mom describes terrifying moment twister ripped her top-floor apartment into pieces as she hid in the bathtub with her son By Sophie Wingate For Dailymail.com Khalil Murray (left), 23, save his mother's life when he threw himself over Shannon Barnes (right), 47, to protect her from the impact and the falling debris An Ohio mother and her son were sheltering in their top-floor apartment Monday night when a tornado ripped the entire roof off their building. Shannon Barnes, 47, was cowering in the bathroom of her top-floor apartment with her son Khalil Murray, 23, when the twister hit the Westbrooke Village complex in Trotwood near Dayton. I was sitting on the tub and Khalil was sitting on the floor and I started hearing the hail hit the window,' she told DailyMail.com. 'All of a sudden the building started shaking. Next thing you know, it took the roof off the building. 'You could actually feel the pressure of it,' Barnes said of the terrifying tornado. Murray threw himself over his mother in the bathtub to protect her from the impact and the falling debris. Murray described struggling to breath when the twister hit. Air pressure drops inside the walls of a tornado. 'After I saw the tornado take the roof off I was gasping for air,' he said. 'I was inside of it and I saw lightning inside of it and I couldn't breathe.' The young man said he saved his mother's life. Their home was completely devastated in the night. 'Ill have to find somewhere to move to because its damaged,' Barnes said of her third-floor apartment. 'Theres nothing to go back to. Barnes is now staying with her daughter nearby. The 'rapid-fire' tornadoes first touched down in the family's hometown of Trotwood, just outside Dayton, at about 11pm on Monday night. The young man said he saved his mother's life. Their home was completely devastated in the night Advertisement '@GovMikeDeWine just updated me on the devastation from the many tornadoes that struck Ohio early this morning. My Administration fully supports the people of the great State of Ohio as they begin the cleanup and recovery,' Trump wrote. Trotwood Mayor Mary McDonald reports extensive, 'catastrophic damage'. She said five busloads of displaced residents have been taken to a church offering temporary shelter while the American Red Cross assesses needs. McDonald says the community is getting a lot of help and support from federal, state, and local agencies, adding that 'we need that level of support'. Trotwood's Hara Arena, idled in recent years after decades as a popular sports and entertainment venue, sustained 'a huge amount of damage'. Actor Rob Lowe, a Dayton native, tweeted on Tuesday: 'Praying for my hometown.' President Donald Trump spoke with Republican Gov Mike DeWine, of Ohio, on Tuesday. Trump tweeted: 'My Administration fully supports the people of the great State of Ohio as they begin the cleanup and recovery' Lorraine Hoeft picks through her belongings scattered across her yard after the tornado touched down in Charles City, Iowa, and destroyed her family's home on Monday The living room of Doug and Lorraine Hoeft's Charles City home was destroyed. Dirt and debris is seen scattered all over the living space A tornado ripped the front off of a two-story home on Johnsville Brookville Road in Brookville, Ohio A building on the Floyd County Fairgrounds site in Charles City, Iowa, is seen leveled after a tornado touched down in the area on Monday Property and tree damage was extensive in Pendleton, Indiana, where a tornado landed overnight Daniel Williams, of Clayton, Ohio walks through his damaged house after a tornado touched down overnight Neighbors in Clayton, Ohio, gather belongings after houses were damaged during the devastating tornado Members of a search and rescue team inspect homes in Trotwood, Ohio, Tuesday. One crew member is seen standing on top of what's left of the home Weather experts said 51 tornadoes (depicted in this graphic) were reported across eight states overnight and residents of Idaho, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio, are still not in the clear as severe weather is forecast to continue through Tuesday and into Wednesday According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Storm Prediction Center, 14 suspected tornadoes touched down in Indiana, 10 in Colorado and nine in Ohio. Six suspected tornadoes were reported in Iowa, five in Nebraska, four in Illinois, three in Minnesota, while one was reported in Idaho CATASTROPHIC WEATHER ACROSS THE CENTRAL AND MIDWEST STATES CAUSES 11 DEATHS IN TWO WEEKS The devastating storms began earlier this month when they bombarded the central US and produced dozens of destructive tornadoes, massive hail and damaging winds. MAY 17-19: TORNADO ALLEY, NORTH DAKOTA DOWN TO TEXAS: According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center (SPC), more than 30 tornadoes touched down in Nebraska and Kansas on May 17. Texas had at least six and one touched down in Oklahoma. At the time, the National Weather Service said that there were areas hit with 'strong tornadoes, significant damaging winds and very large hail'. Tornado Alley - from North Dakota down to Texas - was the most impacted by the dangerous weather but 18 states in total and roughly 40 million residents were at risk One tornado hit Sheridan, Illinois and hail as big as golf balls was reported to have fallen not far from Chicago. By May 18, at least 8 large tornadoes had touched down primarily in Texas while another was reported to have ravaged Oklahoma. Throughout that weekend, a total of 18 states with 40 million people were affected by the storm systems. MAY 20: OKLAHOMA AND TEXAS THREATENED BY MORE STORMS Tornadoes were spotted in Texas and Oklahoma on May 20 as some two million people across a broad swath of both states braced against the US National Weather service's warning that the risk of twisters in the region was at the highest level they had seen in years. At the time, a tornado warning was issued for Reno, Kingfisher and Okarche in Oklahoma. A funnel cloud was also spotted in Paducah, Texas. The National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center issued the highest threat level possible, of a 5 out of 5, for violent tornadoes on May 20. Soon after the tornado threat was over, the threat of a flash flood in Oklahoma increased. Storm cells that developed followed one after the other in what is called 'training,' leading to scattered reports of flash flooding that night. MAY 21: TORNADOES IN OKLAHOMA, TEXAS, KANSAS AND MISSOURI AND SNOW IN COLORADO Four million residents were under a flash flood 'emergency warning' on May 21, including in Oklahoma, where as much as five feet of water entered homes in Hominy, to the northeast of the state. Some 22 tornadoes were reported across Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas and Missouri. Rescue crews in boats pulled at least 50 people from flood waters as heavy downpours inundated roads and homes. Meanwhile in Colorado, snow was falling - the latest it has fallen in more than four decades - leaving houses and cars covered and roads coated in black ice. Four million residents were under a flash flood 'emergency warning' on May 21, including in Oklahoma, where as much as five feet of water entered homes in Hominy, to the northeast of the state. Meanwhile in Colorado, snow (pictured) was falling - the latest it has fallen in more than four decades - leaving houses and cars covered and roads coated in black ice MAY 22: SECOND CONSECUTIVE DAY OF TORNADOES IN THE MIDWEST Last week, this dangerous storm system in the Midwest produced dozens of tornadoes for the second consecutive day, leaving two dead, demolishing a racetrack grandstand and damaging a wild animal park. The Missouri State Highway Patrol said an SUV skidded across the center of US 160 and struck a tractor-trailer, killing Brandon Beasley, 23, and his 24-year-old wife, Christin, of Willard, Missouri, who were in the SUV. Missouri Gov Mike Parson declared a state of emergency, citing worsening flood concerns and soil inundation. The severe weather started in the Southern Plains on May 20 and moved to the northeast. Missouri and parts of Illinois and Arkansas were in the cross-hairs by Tuesday. At this point, some 37 tornadoes had been reported across Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas and Missouri. Those include the previous 22 tornadoes on May 21. Two barges broke loose and floated swiftly down the swollen Arkansas River in eastern Oklahoma on May 22. MAY 22 INTO MAY 23: VIOLENT MISSOURI TORNADO Late Wednesday night, the tornado touched down in Jefferson City, causing heavy damage in Missouri's capital city. The tornado was blamed for three deaths, and it also left several people trapped in the wreckage of their homes. The service reported at the time that a 'confirmed large and destructive tornado' was observed over Jefferson City at 11.43pm on Wednesday. Missouri Public Safety confirmed in a tweet that three people were killed in the Golden City area of Barton County, and several injured in the Carl Junction area of Jasper County. At this point, the death toll from the week's storms included a 74-year-old woman found early Wednesday morning in Iowa. Missouri authorities said heavy rain was a contributing factor in the deaths of two people in a traffic accident Tuesday near Springfield. A fourth weather-related death may have occurred in Oklahoma, where the Highway Patrol said a woman apparently drowned after driving around a barricade Tuesday near Perkins, about 45 miles northeast of Oklahoma City. Officials reported a total of seven deaths, including the three deaths in Jefferson City. MAY 24: DEATH TOLL INCREASES AS FLOOD FEARS RISE The bodies of a man and a woman were discovered Friday in a submerged vehicle near the Mississippi River in Missouri, bringing the death toll to nine from storms that have ravaged the central US. John Reinhardt, 20, and Caitlin Frangel, 19, both of Hazelwood, Missouri, were reported missing on May 15. Their bodies were found around 4am on a flooded rural road that runs along the river at Portage Des Sioux, about 40 miles north of St Louis. Heavy rain in recent weeks spurred major flooding in several states. Flooding along the Arkansas River threatened communities from Tulsa into western Arkansas through the holiday weekend, as water released from an Oklahoma dam combined with additional rain. MAY 26: TORNADOES CONTINUE AND THE DEATH TOLL RISES TO 11 The devastating weather continued for the entire week and into the weekend as two more people were killed when a tornado tore through El Reno, Oklahoma, Saturday night. The American Budget Value Inn in El Reno was decimated by the tornado. More than 30 people were reportedly inside the hotel when the twister struck. Witnesses said they saw people being pulled from the rubble of the hotel in the aftermath. A nearby mobile home park that was also in the tornado's path was completely destroyed. It remains unclear how many people were injured. Before Saturday's deaths were reported, the death toll from the storms across the Central and Midwest states was at nine. More than 30 people were inside the hotel when the tornado struck. Pictured are emergency workers checking what is left of the second floor of the hotel. Two people were killed, bringing the death toll to 11 Advertisement Drone footage showed large, modern homes in Celina obliterated by the tornado while ones right next door dodged its fury. Kylie Post, a Celina resident, said that when she heard tornado sirens start blaring, she and her son took shelter in a bathtub and covered themselves with a mattress - because their house has no basement. 'The first thing I heard was the sirens. Then, next it sounded almost like a train was near us that lasted for only a few minutes,' Post told the Cincinnati Enquirer. Multiple schools in the area were closed or had delayed starts Tuesday. Towns just outside Dayton, Ohio, took some of the heaviest hits. In Vandalia, about 10 miles directly north of Dayton, Francis Dutmers and his wife were headed for the basement and safety Monday night when the storm hit with 'a very loud roar'. 'I just got down on all fours and covered my head with my hands,' said Dutmers, who said the winds blew out windows around his house, filled rooms with storm debris, and took down most of his trees. But he and his wife were not injured and the house is still livable, he said. Vandalia's school system tweeted that it is ending the year two days early because of building damage. Community members bring cases of water, make meals and gather toiletries at Ladder 76 in Brookville Chad Dawson and his daughter, Alex, take a break from removing debris from a family friend's home in Brookeville Dayton, Ohio, residents and visitors walk through debris at the River's Edge apartment complex Pedestrians pass along storm debris on North Dixie Drive in Dayton, Ohio. The roof on this building collapsed onto trucks that were parked underneath Homes stand damaged after a tornado passed through the area overnight in Brookville, Ohio In Brookville, west of Dayton, the storm tore roofs off schools, destroyed a barn and heavily damaged houses. This photo shows the Brookville High School A section of roof was torn off of Brookville High School (pictured) after the tornado ripped through the area overnight in Brookville, Ohio Storm damage litters a residential neighborhood in Vandalia, Ohio. Authorities are currently surveying damage in several areas Search and rescue markings on a car indicate it has been searched in Trotwood, Ohio, In Harrison Township fire chief Mark Lynch said that the town appeared to be hit by 'World War III' and that it will take 'several years of rebuilding'. The NWS tweeted Monday night that a 'large and dangerous tornado' hit near Trotwood, Ohio, eight miles northwest of Dayton. Several apartment buildings were damaged or destroyed. Emergency crews started going door-to-door in the middle of the night and into Tuesday morning to help anyone trapped by debris in Indiana and Ohio. Police scanners indicated that dozens of people trapped in their homes and needed help. Madison County Emergency Management spokesman Todd Harmeson said least 75 homes were damaged in Pendleton and the nearby community of Huntsville. Seven people were reported injured in the storm in Pendleton. Authorities said roads in Pendleton, about 35 miles northeast of Indianapolis, are blocked with trees, downed power lines and utility poles. Pendleton High School is open as a shelter. Madison County Emergency Management spokesman Todd Harmeson said there were no serious injuries reported from the tornadoes there and in nearby Huntsville. The weather service also found damage northeast of Huntsville that was caused by an EF2 tornado, a significant twister that packs wind speeds of 111-135mph. The NWS said a survey team will investigate damage in Madison County and possibly in Henry County. Another team may survey damage in Tippecanoe County. The 'large and dangerous' tornado (pictured) wreaked havoc after touching down near Dayton, Ohio, late Monday night Photos taken by residents showed severely damaged homes, and trees and downed power lines Some 5 million people were without power early Tuesday in Ohio alone. Residents are seen walking through debris as they try to enter their residence at the Westbrooke Village Apartment building in Trotwood, Ohio Two tornadoes hit the metro area of Dayton, Ohio, on Monday night in the span of just 30 minutes apart, according to the NWS. The aftermath left some lanes of Interstate 75 blocked north of Dayton. Trucks with plows were scraping tree branches and rubble to the side to get the major north-south route reopened, according to Matt Bruning, a spokesman for the Ohio Department of Transportation. Bruning said that trying to clear the debris in the middle of the night is a difficult task, complicated by darkness and downed power lines. He said tow trucks would eventually have to deal with damaged vehicles along the road. 'We'll do a more thorough cleaning after we get lanes opened,' he told the Associated Press by text early Tuesday, noting that tow trucks would have to haul off damaged vehicles along the roadway, too. In Brookville, west of Dayton, the storm tore roofs off schools, destroyed a barn and heavily damaged houses. Classes were canceled. In Montgomery County, Sheriff Streck said many roads were impassable. The sheriff's office initially said the Northridge High School gymnasium would serve as an emergency shelter in Dayton but later said it wasn't useable. A car is covered with debris that was ripped from an apartments building after a tornado touched down overnight in Trotwood, Ohio Storm damage litters a residential neighborhood as fire fighters and city crews work to assess damage Trailers are seen overturned following a tornado in the Northridge suburb of Dayton, Ohio Debris sits in the front yard of a house on Rolfe Avenue in Dayton, Ohio, on Tuesday morning following a devastating tornado A resident assesses tornado damage on Rolfe Avenue in Dayton, Ohio, on Tuesday morning At least half a dozen communities from eastern Indiana through central Ohio suffered damage, according to the NWS. Another reported tornado touched down just east of Dayton at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. When another tornado struck around 75 miles away in Circleville, Ohio, just before 1am the agency warned residents to 'take cover'. One tornado was described as 'large and dangerous'. It wreaked havoc in western Ohio after tearing through buildings and causing widespread damage. The first destructive tornado first touched down in the city of Trotwood, just outside Dayton, at about 11pm on Monday night before moving through the state. At the time, the NWS described the tornado as 'extremely dangerous' and warned residents to remain in their shelters as it tore through the heavily populated area. 'This is a life threatening situation', the NWS warned in a tweet. The agency also told residents to 'take cover' in two nearby counties. 'RADAR CONFIRMED TORNADO JUST SOUTH OF CIRCLEVILLE, OHIO. TAKE COVER IF YOU ARE IN SOUTHEAST PICKAWAY COUNTY OR SOUTHWEST FAIRFIELD COUNTY!!!' a spokesman tweeted. Weather officials reported signs on their radars of debris being lifted tens of thousands of feet when the first tornado touched down. Photos taken by residents showed severely damaged homes and buildings as well as downed trees and power lines. A street sign is bent over after an EF3 tornado hit Trotwood, an older Dayton suburb of some 24,500 people. The tornado brought 140mph winds to the area. An EF3 is considered a strong tornado that does severe damage, rated on a scale of EF0 through EF5 A car and truck were crushed under a fallen tree in a Trotwood, Ohio, neighborhood Debris litters a street in Trotwood, Ohio, near Dayton, after powerful tornadoes ripped through the US state overnight Pedestrians pass along storm debris on North Dixie Drive, Tuesday in Dayton, Ohio, the day after a tornado struck the city Family and neighbors in Clayton, Ohio, gather belongings after the tornado destroyed their cars and their homes Firefighters and rescue crews go house-to-house to search for anyone trapped or injured following the powerful tornadoes The NWS reported that some residents were trapped in collapsed buildings in several areas with firefighters and EMTs having difficulty reaching the scenes due to debris in the roads and power lines blocking highways. There were reports of houses being cut in half and others that were completely flattened. The steeple of the New Life Worship Center in Dayton snapped off when one tornado tore through. Part of the center's roof was also torn off and landed in the car park. About 25 people, including children, were reported to be hiding in the church at the time. Soon after the tornado struck the Dayton metro area, there were reports of severe, tornado-producing thunderstorms striking the same areas and multiple tornado warnings were put in place for Montgomery County. The weather service issued several tornado warnings for cities outside Daytona and urged residents to be vigilant as the night went on. Multiple warnings were still in place after midnight, including for Cedarville, Wilberforce and Jamestown. The devastation in Ohio comes after a week of tornadoes in Missouri and Oklahoma. Early Tuesday morning, the president tweeted his support for tornado survivors in Oklahoma, where two people were killed and 29 were injured by a twister that struck a motel and mobile home park over the weekend. Trump tweeted: 'Spoke with @GovStitt of Oklahoma last night from Japan because of the devastating tornadoes. Told him that @FEMA and the federal government are fully behind him and the great people of Oklahoma.' In Tulsa, officials were monitoring the Arkansas River after the US Army Corps of Engineers raised the flow at the upriver Keystone Dam by 65 per cent since last week to 275,000 cubic feet per second. The heavier flow is testing two aging levees in Tulsa, the city said. Flooded areas of Arkansas and Oklahoma are currently bracing for more rain that will feed the already swollen Arkansas River, forecasters said on Monday. Last week a tornado packing speeds of 160mph tore through Jefferson City in Missouri. At the time, Missouri Public Safety confirmed in a tweet that three people were killed in the Golden City area of Barton County, and several injured in the Carl Junction area of Jasper County Arkansas, Oklahoma and Missouri have all activated National Guard units to respond to the storms. The tornado struck the city of Trotwood, just outside Dayton, at about 11pm on Monday night Power lines and trees were downed and debris was scattered across roads in Beavercreek, Ohio, after a tornado struck The most severe damage was reported in the Dayton metro area and Celina, about 60 miles north-west of Dayton (home pictured in the area) Emergency crews started going door-to-door in the middle of the night and into Tuesday morning to check on residents in Indiana and Ohio (pictured is the inside of a home in Dayton) Facebook's top two executives, Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg, said they won't attend a court hearing in Ottawa today, despite receiving summonses from Canadian MPs - risking contempt of Parliament. The summonses were made out to the pair individually by a senior Canadian politician on May 8, but the Silicon Valley company will send stand-ins for the company's top brass. Kevin Chan, its head of public policy for Facebook Canada, and Neil Potts, its director of public policy, will go the meeting instead, Facebook said in a statement. Bob Zimmer MP, the chair of the Canadian parliamentary committee hosting the international meeting this morning in Ottawa, made out to the summonses to the pair individually But Bob Zimmer MP, the chair of the Canadian parliamentary committee hosting the international meeting, said he would prefer to hear from the pair whom the summons were personally made out to. The actual documents state that the CEO and COO are 'required' to appear in Canada's capital at the meeting which kicks off this morning. Zimmer added that 'to be held in contempt by an entire country would not serve any platform well' before stating that 'nobody is going to come with some handcuffs and arrest them' - alluding to the complex contempt laws in Canadian Parliament. Facebook co-founder, Chairman and CEO Mark Zuckerberg prepares to testify on Capitol Hill in April last year, amid a hearing on data breaches concerning his company Canadian New Democratic Party member Charlie Angus tweeted pictures of the summonses earlier this month The meeting is the second of its kind, following one in London last year. It aims to look at Silicon Valley's impact on privacy and democracy, with Twitter and Google invited along to answer questions. The committee voted to subpoena Zuckerberg and Sandberg - chief operating officer of Facebook - to appear as witnesses, citing the Cambridge Analytica scandal early last year. The duo have testified before the United States Congress on the subject but Bob Zimmer told CNN the issues transcend the US border. 'Collectively we represent about 450 million people, it's a bigger population group than the US,' he said. He added that the presence of the powerful pair is important because of how they 'micro-manage' the company and every decision comes from the top, from them. Written in English and French, the summonses are made out to Zuckerberg and Sandberg individually and they state that the pair are 'require' to show up at the hearing in Canada The decision to hold them in contempt, Zimmer said, would be voted on by the whole of Parliament, CNN reported. Facebook said any contempt ruling isn't for them to 'speculate' on, adding that it's 'a decision for Parliament.' The spokesperson added that Facebook 'shares the Committee's desire to keep people safe and to hold companies like ours accountable.' Whilst the threat of contempt exists, Canada rarely executes the move or punishes beyond the ruling in itself. A study by the Library of Parliament found that, while 'allegations of contemptuous behavior are made frequently, findings of contempt are unusual.' Ms Sandberg, COO of Facebook, gives testimony before a US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence hearing 'to examine foreign influence operations' use of social media platforms' The decision to hold them in contempt, Zimmer said, would be voted on by the whole of Parliament Also, while the House of Commons has a range of penalties to punish contempt, including jail - a 'finding of contempt is often considered sufficient in itself,' notes the library, reported by CBC. Indeed that was the case of then Royal Canadian Mounted Police Deputy Commissioner Barbara George in 2017 when she was found in contempt for being 'misleading at best, untruthful at worst' over a probe into her force's management of $12 billion pension and insurance plans. Liberal MP Shawn Murphy, chair of the Commons public accounts committee at the time, said the finding of being in contempt was enough of a punishment in itself. 'It was just a statement of our rebuke,' he said. In short, it is unlikely that Zuckerberg and Sandberg will face punishment if they are found in contempt - even though they would technically be hindering parliament in fulfilling duties. strategic territory and almost entirely claimed by China The waterway is strategic territory and almost entirely claimed by China Australian navy helicopter pilots were forced to land after being hit by lasers while exercising in the South China Sea, a witness claims. Euan Graham, a former Northeast Asia and Southeast Asia analyst for the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, said he saw lasers pointing at the Royal Australian Navy flagship HMAS Canberra from passing fishing vessels whilst on board. He also claims a Chinese warship trailed the HMAS Canberra on its journey from Vietnam to Singapore after the Australian warship did not notify Chinese authorities of its course - a courteous practice deemed non-essential by the UN's convention on high seas freedoms. The 27,000 tonne HMAS Canberra is the largest ship ever built for the Australian Navy China maintains a robust maritime militia in the South China Sea composed of fishing vessels equipped to carry out missions just short of combat. The waterway between China, Vietnam and Singapore is considered strategic territory and is almost entirely claimed by China who are sensitive to all foreign naval action in the area, especially by the U.S. and allies such as Australia. On Tuesday details of the incident emerged after Euan Graham speculated on the laser sighting in an article for The Strategist, a website run by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, an independent, non-partisan think tank based in Canberra. Mr Graham wrote: 'It's hard to say for sure, but similar incidents have occurred in the western Pacific.' Similar incidents involving lasers and the Chinese military have also been reported as far away as Djibouti, where the U.S. and China have bases. Last year, the U.S. complained to China after lasers were directed at aircraft in the Horn of Africa nation that resulted in minor injuries to two American pilots. View of the flight deck from the top of the ski-jump of HMAS Canberra in Sydney. HMAS Canberra is the first of two Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD) ships for the Australian Navy The Australian Navy's largest warship the HMAS Canberra, commissioned in 2014 China denied that its forces targeted the U.S. military aircraft. Mr Graham said that while bridge-to-bridge communications with the Chinese during the voyage were courteous, the Chinese requested the Australian warships notify them in advance of any corrections to their course. That was something the Australian navy was 'not about to concede while exercising its high-seas freedoms,' Graham wrote. He wrote that the constant presence of Chinese vessels shadowing foreign ships appeared to indicate that the Chinese fleet had grown large enough to allow it to have vessels lying in wait for just such orders. Junior sailors bunks on HMAS Canberra, the largest ship ever built for Royal Australian Navy He said their trailing actions also appeared to show that China's over-the-horizon surveillance capability was also maturing, supported by technology based at points such as Fiery Cross Reef in the contested Spratly island group where China has built military installations and an airstrip atop coral reefs. Five other governments have claims in the South China Sea that overlap with China's, and the U.S. and its allies insist on the right to sail and fly anywhere in the area is permitted under international law, despite China's differing interpretation of such guidelines. Mr Graham, who is executive director of La Trobe Asia at La Trobe University in Australia, was one of several academics invited to observe Australia's engagement exercise Indo-Pacific Endeavour earlier this year. Terrorist: Khuram Butt, 27, managed to get a job on the Tube four months after he appeared on a documentary about British jihadis. He is pictured in May 2016 at West Kensington station during his training period The leader of the London Bridge attackers was given a security job on the London Underground checking for suspicious packages the year before the terrorist outrage that killed eight people and injured 48, an inquest heard today. Transport For London bosses gave Butt a job at Southward Underground Station dealing with station security including suspect packages and fire and safety equipment in May 2016 on a salary of 23,300 a year. He was offered the job despite having appeared in Channel 4 documentary The Jihadis Next Door and demonstrated alongside hate preacher Anjem Choudary. Just over a year later Khuram Butt, 27, Rachid Redouane, 30, and Youssef Zaghba, 22, used a hired Renault van to plough into crowds on London Bridge and then stabbed revellers in Borough Market with 12-inch ceramic knives on June 3, 2017. Butt was employed by TFL after receiving a 'positive reference' from former employer Auriga Holdings in East Ham, where he worked from 2012 to 2015 before being made redundant - the firm ran back office operations for the KFC takeaway chain. Butt is pictured on 'The Jihadis Next Door' which aired on January 20, 2016 Warning signs flared as far back as May 2013 when Butt had joined firebrand Choudary for a demonstration on Westminster's College Green, the day after off-duty soldier Fusilier Lee Rigby was murdered by extremists. A former colleague of Butt's later revealed he had said Fusilier Lee Rigby's killing was 'an eye for an eye' after the murder. Butt's brother-in-law also called the police after he supported a film released by ISIS in February 2015 showing thugs pouring petrol over Jordanian pilot Moaz al-Kasasbeh and burning him to death. Butt is pictured on 'The Jihadis Next Door' which aired on January 20, 2016. Jonathan Hough QC, for the coroner, told the Old Bailey how TfL had carried out a background check but that it 'appeared not to have picked up on the Jihadis Next Door programme a few months previously'. Other non-suspect jobs undertaken by the terrorist include an office assistant at a Wimbledon removal firm, a volenteer position at Newham Acton Against Domestic Violence, part-time jobs at Favourite Pizza and a job in the stock room at Top Shop on Oxford Street. In July 2015, Butt was filmed for the Channel 4 documentary 'The Jihadis Next Door' outside the Regent's Park mosque praying in front of the black standard of ISIS. Later that year Transport for London (TfL) hired Butt after Choudary had visited his home during the Muslim festival of Ramadan. Butt's brother-in-law also called the police after he supported a film released by ISIS in February 2015 showing thugs pouring petrol over Jordanian pilot Moaz al-Kasasbeh (pictured) and burning him to death Butt's brother-in-law also called the police after he supported a film released by ISIS in February 2015 showing thugs pouring petrol over Jordanian pilot Moaz al-Kasasbeh and burning him to death Soon after starting at TFL, he went on sick leave with a doctors note claiming the company shoes were giving him knee pain. Butt was responsible for 'conducting security searches' at Southwark Underground Station, the inquest was told. DCI Wayne Jolley told how the terrorist had access to London Underground stations in a 'security capacity' through the job, but spent 'very little time indeed' at work. Jonathan Hough QC, for the coroner, told the Old Bailey how TfL had carried out a background check but that it 'appeared not to have picked up on the Jihadis Next Door programme a few months previously'. Butt had been fired from a number of jobs including the one at TfL after he took extended sick leave claiming that the standard issue shoes were hurting his feet. As far back as May 2013, Butt had joined firebrand Anjem Choudary for a demonstration on Westminster's College Green, the day after off-duty soldier Fusilier Lee Rigby was murdered by extremist. Choudary is pictured earlier this month walking along the road close to his home in East London - his electronic tag can be seen in his left sock Butt had planned to move to Syria to fight for ISIS in early 2015 but said that his father-in-law Abdul Rehman-Butt had destroyed and a one way ticket to prevent him from travelling. Friend Hamza Raza told investigators: 'He met Choudary when he had gone round to Butt's home once during the Ramadan period.' Mr Raza said Butt was energized in Choudary's company and 'like a lion out of a cage when Choudary was around'. Butt taught children, aged seven, the Koran Butt and Zaghba both taught at Ad-Deen Primary School in Oxford Road, Ilford where Sophie Rahman was the head teacher. Ms Rahman's husband, Sajeel Sahid, was also involved with the Ummah Fitness Centre, a gym in Ilford, east London where the three London Bridge attackers trained, and had been linked to a number of extremists, the inquest was told. He was teaching Koran classes for two hours each afternoon from Monday to Friday, to classes of six or seven boys and girls, aged between seven and nine years of age. After the attacks, the school was closed and Rahman was the subject of disciplinary action for employing Butt without a criminal records check and despite his appearance on the film the Jihadi Nextdoor. Advertisement As a young man, Butt was a 'normal guy' who played football, supported Arsenal and smoked tobacco and cannabis, Mr Raza told police. His sister, Haleema Butt, said that until late 2012, he was a 'party animal' but when she got married, he asked her to cover her face and to delete videos of him dancing at her wedding. He terminated a relationship with one girlfriend because she refused to convert to Islam. Before his marriage he had met his wife Zahrah Rehman twice - the first time when he was nine and she 13. A week after the second meeting, in December 2013, they agreed to marry. At his wedding his wife wore the full niqab face veil, covering her eyes and men and women were segregated and the couple went on honeymoon to Pakistan in February 2014. He had asked his brother-in-law, Hasim Rehman, to teach him more about Islam and was initially 'soft and humble', but later became 'very rigid in his belief' and would call Shia Muslims non-believers. He told Mr Raza: 'You are not supposed to follow the rules of the country follow your own Islamic rules and regulations. Their rules and regulations are not for us. British rules are wrong.' The three terrorists ploughed into crowds on London Bridge and then stabbed revellers in Borough Market with 12-inch ceramic knives on June 3, 2017. Picture shows CCTV footage issued by the Metropolitan Police of the van driving over the bridge before the attack Butt's father-in-law Abdul Rehman-Butt said that as the situation in Syria deteriorated, he would change the TV channel but Butt would talk about jihad and showed an interest in travelling to Syria. It resulted in a family argument at Butt's home in which Mr Rehman-Butt took his son-in-law's passport and destroyed it, along with a one-way ticket to Syria, threatening to disown him. His wife said that Butt wanted to help those in Syria but she feared he was being influenced by others. Butt was said to have been spending more time at the Ummah Fitness Centre, a gym in Ilford, east London, helping run the gym and training with the two other London Bridge attackers Redouane who had been attending a mosque in Barking joined the gym in December 2016 as did Zaghba who had been attending Longbridge Road mosque He expressed an interest in living and working in an Arab country and enrolled Greenwich Community College in September 2014 on a course to teach English as a foreign language. However, his pregnant wife had a brain aneurism and he dropped out of the course to look after her. In August 2016, he finally passed the course at Language Link, London in Earl's Court, but one he realised he required a degree to use the qualification abroad, he gave up on the idea. Usman Darr, another brother-in-law was concerned that Butt wanted to travel to Syria, and said he would often claim there was a 'comprehensive' healthcare and education system. He challenged him after Butt defended the execution of captured Jordanian pilot Moaz al-Kasabed who was burned to death in cage in sickening scenes streamed over the internet, and Darr's mother had to separate the two of them. Rachid Redouane (left) and Khuram Butt (centre) shaking hands and Youssef Zaghba (right) hugging Khiram Butt before departing. From CCTV outside the Ummah Fitness Club in Barking East London, in the early hours of May 29 2017 The three London Bridge attackers Rachid Redouane (left), Khuram Butt (right) and Youssef Zaghba, spent time at the Ummah Fitness Club in Barking East London training together. They can be seen shaking hands outside of the gym in the early hours of May 29 just days before the London Bridge attack on June 3 2017 Darr was 'very concerned so contacted the anti-terrorist hotline to report his brother in law on September 30 2015,' DCI Wayne Jolley told the inquest. Hamza Raza had also developed concerns and was aware that while working for Auriga Holdings, running the back office for KFC between 2012 and 2015, he was watching beheading videos and listening to the radical preacher Abdullah el-Faisal and other preachers. Mr Raza claimed to have contacted the authorities in 2015, although police could find no trace of the contact. He told police that Butt 'would have gone to Syria had it not been for his family begging him to stay, and had very strong views about the West killing innocent Muslims,' Mr Jolley said. Butt was also watching Youtube videos of Choudary, and was taking part in dawah proselytising stall in Whitechapel, Stratford and East Ham in 2014 and 2015. Mr Jolley told the court: 'Raza told us he met Choudary when he went to Butt's home for Ramadan and that he was energised in Choudary's company. He said Butt was like a lion out of a cage when Choudary was around.' Before the attack, while on sick leave from the London Underground, Butt was said to have been spending more time at the Ummah Fitness Centre, a gym in Ilford, east London, becoming involved in running the gym. He was not paid and one customer said Butt spent time watching Youtube videos by the radical preachers Ahmad Musa Jibril and Abdullah el-Faisal. Redouane who had been attending a mosque in Barking joined the gym in December 2016 as did Zaghba who had been attending Longbridge Road mosque. The inquest also today heard that the London Bridge attackers were unlikely to have become more aggressive as a result of taking bodybuilding steroids before their rampage, an inquest has heard. Butt, Redouane and Youssef Zaghba were shot dead by police less than 10 minutes after the rampage. Toxicologist Professor David Cowan rejected the suggestion they had been 'juiced up' on steroids, in order to make them more aggressive. Jonathan Hough, QC, counsel for the coroner, asked: 'What is the chance of the use of steroids affecting one or more of them behaviourally?' Khuram Butt, Rachid Redouane and Youssef Zaghba were 'likely to have taken bodybuilding steroids' - but the drugs didn't make them more aggressive, an inquest has heard A map of the London Bridge area shows where each of the victims were injured Prof Cowan said DHEA, an anabolic steroid, was more likely than not administered to the attackers before they carried out the attack. But he said he thought it's 'highly unlikely' that steroid use had any behavioural effect on any of the individuals. He told the court evidence the attackers appeared 'hyper' or 'wild eyed' did not necessarily indicate they were affected. A forensic scientist confirmed that one of the victims, Xavier Thomas, had been hit by the attackers' van before he fell into the Thames. Dr Louissa Marsh said examination of the Renault van and Mr Thomas's jeans provided 'strong support' for the proposition they were in contact. An examination of particles in the van showed suspected driver Zaghba, 22, was closest to the deployment of the air bag. But she was unable to prove he was behind the wheel from the forensic evidence alone. Mr Thomas, 45, Christine Archibald, 30, Alexandre Pigeard, 26, Sara Zelenak, 21, Kirsty Boden, 28, Sebastien Belanger, 36, James McMullan, 32, and Ignacio Echeverria, 39 all died in the atrocity. The inquest into the victims' deaths continues. From cannabis-smoking rap fan to radicalised extremist glorying in ISIS' sickest stunts: How Khuram Butt became ringleader of London Bridge attacks Pakistani-born Briton Khuram Butt is understood to have come to the UK in 1998 from Pakistan with his family on a visitors visa at the age of 8. His father ran a furniture business and the family were practising Muslims but not especially religious, the inquest heard. The family arrived on a visitor's visa in 1998, to stay with his father's sister in East Ham, East London and then claimed asylum that April. Pakistani-born Briton Khuram Butt is understood to have come to the UK in 1998 from Pakistan with his family on a visitors visa at the age of 8 It was initially refused but an appeal was granted on February 5 2004, by which time his father had died from a heart attack the previous year. He studied for GCSEs at Rokeby Secondary School, Plaistow, where he passed with B grades in maths, religious studies and food technology and a C in English Language. His tutor described him as an 'enthusiastic and hardworking student' and he listed on his C that he was a school council representative and a 'peer mediator.' Butt had worked at Topshop on Oxford Street in late 2008 and also as a cashier at a pizza takeaway shop around the same time. After studying IT and business communication in 2009, Butt went on to work at a removals firm between late 2009 and early 2012. His manager at Eco Movers told investigators that teenage Butt 'was into a bit of gangsta rap and liked to smoke cannabis' and 'liked to make out he was some type of east London bad man'. Colleagues described him Butt as 'polite, respectful, shy but also able to hold his own.' He was made redundant from that job in March 2012 and moved onto Auriga Holdings, a company that managed KFC franchises in east London. When off-duty soldier Lee Rigby was murdered in London by terrorists in May 2013, he said it was 'an eye for an eye', one of his colleagues claims. The day after the soldiers brutal murder, he joined hate preacher Anjem Choudary for a demonstration on Westminster's College Green, which was held in support of the attack. He would later become a supporter and trusted lieutenant of Choudary and he helped run high-octane mixed martial arts classes at a gym where he approach young people for radicalisation, according to The Times. Butt married Zahrah Rehman in December 2013 and that when she suffered a brain aneurysm he was caring. Butt's increasing radicalisation, much of which came through YouTube videos, changed his behaviour towards his wife and he started pushing Zahrah to allow him to have a second wife. Butt's family became increasingly concerned with his behaviour after he was barred from a number of mosques for interrupting with the imams. Butt's brother-in-law called the police after he supported a film released by ISIS in February 2015 showing thugs pouring petrol over Jordanian pilot Moaz al-Kasasbeh and burning him to death. The pair had to be separated by their mother after they pair rowed about the film. In July 2015, Butt was filmed for the Channel 4 documentary 'The Jihadis Next Door' outside the Regent's Park mosque praying in front of the black standard of ISIS. Butt could be heard on camera saying: 'The government is extreme. They have killed the most people. They are the extremists.' Choudary visited Butt's home during the Muslim festival of Ramadan in 2015. Transport for London (TfL) gave Butt a job in May 2016. His role was checking suspicious packages at Southwark Tube station. He was reportedly sacked from the job at Canada Water station in the Docklands after six months for poor attendance. In June 2017, Butt and two accomplices used a hired Renault van to plough into crowds on London Bridge and then stabbed revellers in Borough Market with 12-inch ceramic knives on June 3, 2017. Ten minutes after their rampage started the trio were shot dead by police. Eight people were killed in the atrocity while another 48 were injured. Advertisement Pictured: the battered Renault van used by terrorists during the attack on London Bridge in 2017, leaving it with its bumper hanging off The terrorists tied 12-inch knives to their wrists with tape before they launched their attack Who were the victims of the London Bridge terror attack? Ignacio Echeverria Spaniard Ignacio Echeverria was stabbed to death as he tried to fight off the terrorist attackers with his skateboard. The 39-year-old had been in the UK for over a year was working as a financial crime analyst at HSBC. Mr Echeverria joined unarmed police constables Wayne Marques and Charlie Guenigault in fighting off the three attackers as they set upon Marie Bondeville, hitting at least one terrorist with his skateboard. 'His courageous efforts were to seek to stop the attack,' Chief Coroner Mark Lucraft said. Kirsty Boden Mr Echeverria was the youngest of five siblings and was a Catholic who went to mass every week. He could speak English, German and French fluently. Nurse Kirsty Boden was fatally stabbed as she tried to tend to the wounded and the dying. Miss Boden, 28, moved to London in 2013 from the small town of Loxton, in South Australia. She was a senior staff nurse at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital and lived with her British boyfriend James Hodder in a flat in Hampstead. Mr Hodder said: 'She loved people and loved her life helping others. To Kirsty, her actions that night would have been an extension of how she lived her life.' Alexandre Pigeard Alexandre Pigeard was working as a waiter at Boro Bistro when he was attacked. The 26-year-old Frenchman had moved to London to further his ambitions as a dance music DJ. Minutes before he was fatally stabbed, he video-called his father Philippe during a break from work at the French restaurant. Mr Pigeard had planned to return to France in the autumn of 2017 to help open a restaurant in Nantes and to record an EP with his musician father. Mr Pigeard senior told the inquest: 'I'm present here as a devastated father who has lost a child in such circumstances - an inconsolable father.' James McMullan James McMullan was stabbed in the chest near the Barrowboy and Banker pub while he was celebrating getting financial backing for his online education company. The British-Filipino entrepreneur was watching the Champions League final with friends in the pub. The 32-year-old, from Hackney in East London, was attacked when he stepped outside to have a cigarette. He had dreamed of helping children without access to education through his e-learning company. Mr McMullan's father Simon described his son as 'funny, charming and clever' and said 'his fearlessness could never be underestimated'. Sebastien Belanger The mother of chef Sebastien Belanger said she does not forgive the terrorists who 'mutilated and killed him'. Her 36-year-old son was drinking at the Boro Bistro when he was stabbed repeatedly in the chest. His mother Josiane Belanger said: 'We miss him so much, his smile, his joie de vivre. I do not forgive what they did to him.' Originally from Angers in western France, Mr Belanger started work at the Coq d'Argent in the City and was promoted to the role of head chef. Australian au pair Sara Zelenak was on the 'trip of a lifetime' when she was stabbed to death while on a night out with a friend. Sara Zelenak Miss Zelenak's mother Julie Wallace said 'every sliding door' put her daughter in 'harm's way'. 'She was meant to be working and at the last minute she got the night off,' Mrs Wallace said. 'At 10pm Sara's phone rang and her friend said 'I've finished at the rugby' and so she left her safe haven and walked out into a terrorist attack and was stabbed to death.' Before leaving for UK in March 2017, Miss Zelenak worked with her stepfather Mark as a crane truck operator in Brisbane to save up for her trip. Her parents have since set up Sarz Sanctuary to help other families to cope with grief. Xavier Thomas Xavier Thomas was walking over London Bridge with his girlfriend Christine Delcros when they were hit by the van. The 45-year-old father-of-two was catapulted into the Thames and his girlfriend suffered life-changing injuries. His body was recovered downstream three days later. Mr Thomas, who had arrived in London on the day of the attack, lived near Paris and worked for American Express. Miss Delcros said: 'Since Xavier disappeared in such tragic and traumatic circumstances our whole world has fallen apart.' Canadian tourist Christine Archibald told her fiance Tyler Ferguson she loved him seconds before she was mowed down. Christine Archibald Miss Archibald and Mr Ferguson were walking across London Bridge after dinning at a nearby restaurant when the atrocity unfolded. Her fiance said: 'At one point Chrissy stopped me out of nowhere, grabbed me close and gave me a passionate kiss after telling me she loved me. 'I remember it being a warm summer's evening and the sun had just gone down.. And then the attack took place and Chrissy was killed. 'No words can express how I felt when this happened. I was absolutely devastated and inconsolable. Nothing has ever been the same since.' Miss Archibald's engagement ring was lost during the attack, but later recovered from the bridge. Mr Ferguson now wears it on a chain around his neck. A New Jersey Transit bus struck and killed a 10-year-old boy who was riding his bike. Authorities said Alvin Maracalho, 10, of Bergenfield, New Jersey, was entering a crosswalk on his bike when he was hit by a NJ Transit bus on Monday at about 3.55pm. The bus was making a left turn onto a plaza when it collided with Marachalho, who was also turning left, according to the North Jersey Record. Alvin Maracalho, 10, was struck by a NJ Transit Bus while he was riding his bike in a crosswalk. Both he and the bus (pictured) were attempting to make left turns at the time Authorities said they received multiple 911 calls about the accident. The Bergenfield Volunteer Ambulance Corps arrived at the scene within two minutes and took Marachalho to the hospital, the Daily Voice reported. He was pronounced dead within an hour of his arrival, however. Police said the driver of the bus, Cynthia Watkins, 58, of Paterson, New Jersey, was also transported to the hospital after she suffered distress following the accident. She has since been released from care. An NJ Transit spokeswoman said Tuesday that the driver is not in service while an investigation into the matter proceeds. Authorities are investigating the incident and have not filed any charges pending the outcome of the investigation The intersection where Maracalho was riding his bike when he was hit by the NJ Transit bus No summons or charges have been issued for Watkins, pending the outcome of the investigation. Marachalho was identified as being a student at Bergenfield's Hoover Elementary School. 'Our entire community is saddened to hear of this tragic loss of life,' Bergenfield Public Schools Superintendent Christopher Tully wrote in a letter sent to parents, which was obtained by Patch.com. 'We offer our condolences to the Maracallo [sic] family. Please keep our community in your thoughts and prayers. Any loss of a child is a loss that gravely impacts us all. I know I can count on all of you to offer unlimited support for this grieving family during this heartbreaking time.' Alastair Campbell was today expelled from Labour after he admitted he had not voted for the party for first time in his life, in disgust at the party's stance on Europe. Tony Blair's former spin doctor said he had backed Liberal Democrats at the European elections last Thursday because he wants to stop Brexit. Hitting back at Corbyn and his leadership he said: 'To all the Labour staff, MPs, peers and councillors who told me they were not voting Labour fear not; as I believe in loyalty to the tribe, your secrets are safe with me'. The Labour leadership threw him out of the party over his vote - but Mr Campbell will appeal saying Jeremy Corbyn was never expelled despite spending years voting against Labour in Parliament from the backbenches. He said: 'I'm still in the Labour Party as far as I'm concerned and I'll always be Labour'. Mr Campbell, who backs a people's vote on Brexit, added: 'I don't think I've supported another party, I don't support another party, tactical voting has gone on for years.' He said he wouldn't name party colleagues who had also voted against Labour out of 'friendship' and 'loyalty'. Alastair Campbell was today expelled from Labour after he admitted he had not voted for the party for first time in his life, in disgust at the party's stance on Europe Campbell hit back by promising to protect the 'secrets' of Labour members who also told them they had not voted Labour He added: 'I know there are an awful lot of MPs and councillors and peers who did not vote for Labour in the European elections and they did it for the same reasons I did it, to try and get the Labour Party to see sense on the single most important issue facing the country.' Diane Abbott says Labour must now back a second Brexit referendum Diane Abbott today gave Jeremy Corbyn a shove towards formally backing a second EU referendum calling it 'the democratic thing to do'. The Shadow Home Secretary said a new vote on any Brexit deal must become Labour policy and she also urged the party to campaign to remain in the EU. She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'Now at minutes to midnight on these negotiations, the Tories plunged into their leadership contest so we get no sense out of them for a few months, we think it's important to foreground the People's Vote.' She added: 'There is no inherent contradiction between respecting the result of the referendum and having a People's Vote, not least because it's still not sure how a People's Vote would pan out. Mr Corbyn is under huge pressure to back a new poll after Labour's electoral humiliation triggered a mutiny at the top of his party. He signalled he could be ready to commit to a second Brexit vote after his closest colleagues said it was the only way to stop Labour haemorrhaging support. Tony Blair predicted today that it is 'more likely now that we will have another referendum and more likely that therefore we will vote to stay in the European Union', and said the party needs to 'stop equivocating' on Brexit. Advertisement Bob Ainsworth, defence secretary under Gordon Brown, is also set to be expelled after admitting to voting Green last week. He said: 'When you see a guy being expelled from the party for doing exactly the same as you've done, you stick your hands up and say: 'I am Spartacus'.' Mr Campbell spoke out after receiving an email from Labour telling him he is no longer a member. He tweeted: 'Sad and disappointed to receive email expelling me from @UKLabour - particularly on a day leadership finally seems to be moving to the right place on Brexit, not least thanks to tactical voting by party members, including MPs, councillors and peers who back a people's vote. 'I was not intending to publicise this at this stage, but have had calls from friends in the Party telling me it is now widely known and likely to be leaked. I have been advised by lawyers with expertise in this field I have grounds for appeal against expulsion and shall do so'. Today Britain's human rights watchdog has launched a formal investigation into whether the Labour Party 'unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish'. Mr Campbell said there was a difference in the swift way his situation had been dealt with compared to 'the way anti-Semitism cases have been handled'. Labour MP Margaret Hodge backed him up and said: 'So it takes 5 days for Labour to expel @campbellclaret but almost 3 years to expel prolific anti-semite Jackie Walker. This is why the EHRC are investigating'. Momentum, Jeremy Corbyn's grassroots movement, tweeted: 'Alastair Campbell's 'sexed up' dossier started the Iraq war and left a million dead. Being kicked out of the party is the least he deserves'. A Labour spokesman said: 'Support for another political party or candidate is incompatible with party membership'. The party was pushed into third place nationally by the pro-Remain Liberal Democrats on Sunday night. Mr Campbell said after the results came in: 'I voted Lib Dem, as did Fiona Miller [his partner]. For both of us the first time ever we did not vote Labour. 'I'm not a Lib Dem. I'm Labour and I hope that in voting as I did I will help the Labour Party see sense and do right thing for the country: People's Vote.' He added: 'If Islington has gone Lib Dem then maybe even Jeremy Corbyn might realise the strategy pursued by the posh boy revolutionaries is failing badly and putting his and Labour's future at risk.' Mr Campbell was Mr Blair's chief spokesman from 1994 to 2003. He is now a key figure in the People's Vote campaign, demanding a second referendum. Today Tony Blair said he understood why his friend and former spin doctor had decided to vote Lib Dem. He said: 'I voted Labour. I said I was going to and I did although without any great enthusiasm frankly. But I did.' Asked what he would say to Alastair Campbell after he admitted voting Lib Dem he said: 'I understand why you did what you did. You wouldn't be the only person I know who voted Labour all their lives who didn't vote Labour in this election.' Campbell has also been accused of spinning the result of the European elections by claiming the remain parties came out on top. Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage said it was another example of pro-EU politicians 'moaning about every single election which they lose'. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn (pictured yesterday) was not thrown out of the party by Tony Blair despite the number of times he voted against his own party The rebuke came after some Remainers including Campbell argued that by adding up the total votes for anti-Brexit parties, Sunday's poll results proved the public did not want to leave the EU. Mr Farage was asked about the argument as he appeared on ITV's GMB programme, with presenter Charlotte Hawkins claiming: 'If you add up all the pro-Remain parties they did get a bigger percentage - 35.8 per cent versus the Brexit Party's 31.6 per cent.' But a furious Mr Farage replied: 'This is absolute tosh. It is not a fact. Add up the Brexit vote, add up the Ukip vote.. add the Conservative vote... and you will find that Leave beat Remain'. Teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg has warned world leaders global warming is the 'biggest crisis humanity has ever faced' before scolding them for not taking it seriously enough. The 16-year-old Swedish schoolgirl urged politicians not to see climate change as an excuse to 'create new green jobs and businesses'. She told a summit in the Austrian capital Vienna: 'This is above all an emergency and not just any emergency. This is the biggest crisis humanity has ever faced.' The teenager has been credited with shifting the global outlook on environmental issues since she began campaigning last year. After she stood outside the Swedish parliament in a solo protest last August thousands of schoolchildren have walked out of classes in climate demonstrations around the world. Teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg today warned world leaders global warming is the 'biggest crisis humanity has ever faced' at a conference in Vienna, Austria Today at the R20 Austrian world summit at Vienna's Hofburg Palace she told world leaders not to trivialise the issue, adding: 'This is not something you can like on Facebook.' Today at the R20 Austrian world summit at Vienna's Hofburg Palace she told world leaders not to trivialise the issue, adding: 'This is not something you can like on Facebook.' She slammed them for not living up to their promises on the environment and continuing to 'take private jets' and 'build airports'. Thunberg told crowds: 'Politicians one second say climate change is very important, it is the most important topic and we are going to do everything we can to stop it. 'And the next second they want to expand airports, build new coal power plants and motorways. 'And then they fly off in a private jet to attend a meeting on the other side of the world.' Green parties in Europe have credited her with helping propel the issue of climate change into the limelight, boosting their results in last week's European Parliament elections. She was hailed a hero when she spoke to crowds during Extinction Rebellion's near two-week protest in London. The schoolgirl has often struck a much darker tone than some of her fellow activists and refused to hold back from criticising her audiences. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who has invited world leaders to a climate summit in New York in September, agreed that countries aren't doing enough to meet the Paris climate agreement's goal of keeping global warming well below two degrees Celsius by 2100 compared with pre-industrial times. Former California Governor and film star Arnold Schwarzenegger was also at the R20 Austrian world summit at Hofburg palace in Vienna. He is pictured right with Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen second right, and United Nations Secretary-Genera; Antonio Guterres Thunberg is pictured addressing crowds at Extinction Rebellion protests in London Guterres called for an end to fossil fuel subsidies, saying taxpayers' money shouldn't be used to harm the planet. He said: 'Many people still think that to give fossil fuel subsidies is a way to improve living conditions of people. 'Nothing (could be) more wrong. What we are doing is to use taxpayers' money, which means our money, to boost hurricanes, to spread drought, to melt glaciers, to bleach corals, in one word: to destroy the world.' 'I believe that as taxpayers we would prefer to see our money back than to see our money used to destroy the world.' Sickening CCTV footage shows the moment an elderly man is kicked and stamped on by a thug couple in a shocking street attack - while more than ten people walk past. The elderly victim was set upon by a tracksuit-wearing thug and his girlfriend as he crossed the road. Footage shows the yob approach the man who was walking along High Road, in Beeston, Nottinghamshire, at 6.50pm on March 29, and throw a can of beer over him. Sickening CCTV footage shows the moment an elderly man is kicked and stamped on by a thug couple in a shocking street attack - while more than ten people walk past. After kicking the victim to the ground, the couple stamp on the man's head Nottinghamshire police have released CCTV images of the couple in a bid to find and arrest them As the victim walks away the woman, wearing a short skirt and heels, also splashes beer over the man's head. The couple walks across the zebra crossing and the man launches a flying kick into the victim's back which sends him sprawling to the ground. Shockingly, as he tries to get up the couple continue to kick and stamp on the victim while stunned witnesses simply watch and cross the road. A police spokesperson said: 'The man was kicked and pushed to the ground before a man stamped on his head a number of times causing injuries' Several people are spotted on CCTV watching the attack unfold while not a single one tries to intervene. Social media users blasted the witnesses, branding them 'utter cowards' after Nottinghamshire Police released the footage. A police spokesperson said: 'The man was kicked and pushed to the ground before a man stamped on his head a number of times causing injuries. 'A woman also threw beer over the victim.' A woman has been exposed on camera using vile slurs and horrific racist language against three men in a London pub. The men were in the Wibbas Down Inn, a Wetherspoon's in Wimbledon, when the shocking incident took place at around midnight on Sunday in which they were called 'P***s' and told to 'f*** off back to their country'. In the bizarre seven-minute tirade, the woman also claims she is 'related to the government' and wishes painful illness on the men, saying they should 'rot in hell'. A woman racially abused three men enjoying a drink during the Bank Holiday at the Wibbas Down Inn, a Wetherspoon's in Wimbledon When one of the men reveals he is a doctor, the woman says: 'I don't give a f*** about you being a doctor, the only reason you're a doctor is because all our doctors have f****d off because of people like you. 'I tell you what, if I was dying I wouldn't want you to be my doctor, not a P*** like you.' The three men subjected to the abuse were two brothers and a friend who were celebrating the bank holiday weekend ahead of their exams. One of the men, 26, who did not wish to reveal his identity, said: 'We went to the nearest pub to us, got a pint and we sat down. That's when the lady next to us started mumbling and saying things under her breath. 'Then she started aiming the abuse towards us. This is when I thought to turn my phone camera on and start recording the incident just in case we get attacked.' Video footage shows the sickening abuse the men were subjected to as the woman repeatedly uses racial slurs. She says: 'I hope you don't have any children, that is my wish for you. 'This is my country not yours. F*** off to Bollo Bollo Land or wherever you came from.' The barman tried to move the woman away but she persisted in using the vile offensive language When one of the men corrects her by saying he is from Sri Lanka, she continues to use derogatory racist insults. At one point, a barman comes over and asks her to move but she refuses before a bouncer tells the men to ignore the woman. But the woman persists in her abuse, expressing surprise one of the men has a wife after making a homophobic comment. She also claims to be 'related to the government' and says if they release the video: 'We will get you done... Nasty little man, I hope you rot in hell where you belong.' The three men eventually move to the other side of the pub away from the woman as she loudly shouts one more slur at them. The incident was reported to the police the following morning. One of the men said: 'I've been to that pub before and never had any issues.' A spokesperson for the Wibbas Down Inn refused to comment on the incident. MailOnline has contacted the Metropolitan Police for comment. Production of Martin Scorsese's latest mob film has overrun due to complications with making its aging stars look younger using CGI. The Oscar-winning director said his long-awaited movie, which has been in development for over four years, is being held up trying to smooth over the wrinkles of veteran actors Robert De Niro, 75, Al Pacino, 79, and Joe Pesci, 76. During the later scenes in The Irishman the Hollywood greats will be featured as their current ages, but the first half will have them after digital 'youthification' to play the characters in their earlier years. But Scorsese said this process has led to a lack of intensity in the actor's eyes during some of the shots. The film is based on real-life hitman and union boss, Frank 'The Irishman' Sheeran - adapted from the book, I Heard You Paint Houses. Robert De Niro and Al Pacino on set during the filming of The Irishman in New York. Both stars have been digitally 'de-aged' to play their characters in their younger days Production of The Irishman has been delayed while the actors' facial expressions are kept intact but their wrinkles smoothed over The true crime drama is based around the Charles Brandt written book, which centers around the disappearance of mob boss Jimmy Hoffa. It also stars Harvey Keitel, Bobby Cannavale, Anna Paquin and Jack Huston. The Goodfellas, Casino and Raging Bull director said during the A24 film podcast 'A Bigger Canvas' that correcting this anomaly was a difficult task. Scorsese was talking about the production of his latest flick with his friend Joanna Hogg, the British director and writer behind the film, The Souvenir and Archipelago in 2010. He said: 'We shot as much 35mm as possible, however there's a great deal of CGI because we are doing this youthification of De Niro, Pesci and Al Pacino. 'So they had to be in a camera with three lenses, and it was just crazy.' Scorsese also told Joanna Hogg that age is perceived in different ways, meaning the CGI 'youthification' of the actors affects their facial expressions as well as the way they move. He added: 'What I'm concerned about, what we're all concerned about, is that we're so used to watching them as the older faces. Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro during filming of The Irishman. The director said the CGI process has held up the production Robert De Niro, who is around 5ft 10in, also had to wear huge platform shoes to match his character Frank Sheeran's 6ft 4in height 'Now certain shots need more work on the eyes. Need more work on why these are exactly the same eyes from the plate shot, but the wrinkles and things have changed. So has it changed the eyes at all? 'What was in the eyes that I liked? Was it intensity? Was it gravitas? Was it threat? And then how do we get it back? I don't know.' Other modification to the actors' appearance included De Niro wearing huge platform shoes to match Sheeran's 6ft 4in height. It's rumoured that Pesci turned down the offer to be in the movie 50 times before agreeing to take part. Scorsese was attached to direct The Irishman from as far back as 2014 when Pacino confirmed that the film was in development. Al Pacino and Robert De Niro have starred alongside each other in Godfather: Part II in 1974, Heat in 1995 and Righteous Kill in 2008 Martin Scorsese giving De Niro directions during a fight scene for The Irishman, which has been in development since 2014 Shooting was due to take place in 2016 with Steve Zaillian penning the adaptation, but it was pushed back. In May 2016, it was announced that the film's rights would be offered at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. Mexican producer Fabrica de Cine offered $100 million to finance the film but he later dropped out due to the movie's climbing budget. The gangster film was then dropped by Paramount Pictures in 2017 and was picked up by live streaming service, Netflix. Netflix bought the movie for $105 million and agreed to finance the film's hefty $125 million budget. It is due to be released online and in selected cinemas later this year. A company who fired an employee after complaints that he repeatedly and loudly masturbated in a bathroom stall at work were justified in doing so, a labor arbitrator has ruled. The unionized employee, who worked for an aerospace firm operating hangars at the Halifax airport, was dismissed by his employees because his actions were causing 'embarrassment and distress,' as reported by The National Post. The man, who hasn't been named for privacy reasons, and his union, Unifor, claimed he had a disability in the form of a sex addiction and tried to argue that he didn't receive a fair warning about his co-workers' complaints. The unionized employee, who worked for an aerospace firm operating hangars at the Halifax airport, was dismissed by his employees because his actions were causing 'embarrassment and distress' The union added that managers were too embarrassed to directly tell him what the complaints were about and instead referenced 'unusual noises.' The employee testified that he did masturbate in a bathroom stall at work, but only when there was no-one next to him, and that he didn't make noises and kept his phone on silent if he was watching porn. However, arbitrator Gus Richardson, rejected the man's testimony that he made no sounds while engaged in the activity citing his colleagues complaints as evidence that the man could be heard. The unionized employee who worked for an aerospace firm operating hangars at the Halifax airport (shown above) was fired after complaints that he repeatedly and loudly masturbated in a bathroom stall at work Those complaints had come about after two technicians had approached management to complain about noises in the bathroom along with heavy breathing, 'erratic movements and moaning.' The management then met with the employee and didn't directly mention the issue, instead saying they were 'concerned for the employee's well-being.' Richardson ruled that the meeting with management, as well as a follow-up with the union, counted as sufficient warning. Labor arbitrator Gus Richardson (pictured above) ruled the Canadian company was right to fire the male employee Richardson was asked to decide whether loudly masturbating in a bathroom stall was justification for discipline and termination and whether it was a sufficiently private place. Richardson said he accepted there was nothing illegal about masturbation. However, he said the employee had 'violated the privacy and sense of personal decorum of his co-workers, and ignored warnings to stop.' It emerged that the employee had been warned about his behavior two years earlier. More recently a co-worker had complained to human resources that the masturbation had become 'more frequent and brazen.' This in turn led to the company conducting an investigation and ultimately firing the employee. The man and his union, Unifor, claimed he had a disability in the form of a sex addiction and tried to argue that he didn't receive a fair warning about his co-workers' complaints. Both arguments were rejected by Labor arbitrator Gus Richardson Richardson was also asked to consider evidence that the employee had a disability in the form of a sex addiction and should therefore receive a lesser punishment. 'Even if there was a condition that could be called a 'sex addiction' and I was not persuaded on the evidence that there was and even if that was what the grievor suffered from and again I was not persuaded that was the case there was nothing to establish that it was disabling in any way,' Richardson said. The case appears to be the first of its kind. 'Neither (the company) nor the union's representative had been able to find any case dealing with masturbation in the workplace,' the ruling states. A farmer suspected of killing five neighbours including two children has been found dead after a five-day manhunt involving more than 1,000 officers in southern China. The 56-year-old suspect, named Zhang Juqian, had allegedly killed the victims in two revenge attacks in the space of five days before going on the run, according to police from the county of Dongkou in Hunan Province. The fugitive's body was found by armed police today in a village around 26 miles from his home. Police believe Zhang committed suicide. The body of Zhang Juqian (left) was found today in a village in southern China's Hunan Province. The 56-year-old (right) had allegedly killed five neighbours in the space of five days Armed police located Zhang's corpse after a five-day manhunt involving over 1,000 officers Zhang, a native of the village of Chetang in Dongkou, allegedly killed the first neighbour on the evening of May 21, which was his 56th birthday. The 5ft5in man is said to have committed the crime in front of the village authority's office after having conflict with the individual 'due to trivial matters', according to a police notice. Four days later, he allegedly killed four people from the same family at around 10pm. The victims included two elderly people and two children aged five and seven. Zhang had been holding a grudge against the family whose surname is Liu, police said. Police announced a large-scale manhunt on May 23 - after Zhang's first alleged murder - as well as a 50,000 yuan (5,711) reward for information regarding his whereabouts The reward was doubled on May 27 after the family of four were found dead. Zhang's lifeless body (right) was located in a house in the Hunan village of Tongpen, police said Zhang was an illiterate farmer who had been jailed four times for crimes including theft and hooliganism, it is reported. Police announced a large-scale manhunt on May 23 - after Zhang's first alleged murder - as well as a 50,000 yuan (5,711) reward for information regarding his whereabouts. The reward was doubled on May 27 after the family of four were found dead. Zhang's lifeless body was located in a house in the Hunan village of Tongpen, police said. Officers believe Zhang died by suicide after ingesting poison. Further investigations are still ongoing. A thief stole some $42,000 worth of classic comics and other memorabilia from a Colorado comic book store, cannily attempting to sanitize the crime scene by cleaning up his blood before making off with his loot. Denver police are seeking help identifying the man who was captured on surveillance camera at Mile High Comics Sunday at about 4.15am, smashing glass cabinets to grab 14 high-value items. Among the rare books taken were the first Avengers and Iron Man comics, an original Superman fan club letter and a Spider-Man comic signed by writer Gerry Conway. The Avengers comic alone was valued between $12,000 to $14,000, store manager William Moulton told the Denver Channel. A thief broke into Denver's Mile High Comics Sunday morning and stole $42,000 worth of rare comic books. He is seen here in surveillance footage, examining glass cases for his targets The man can be seen breaking the glass cabinets and retrieving specific comics After taking all the comics he came for, he used a cleaning product to wipe away blood he left behind after cutting himself on the broken glass The surveillance shows a balaclava-clad thief carefully examining the shelves before breaking the glass and taking specific comics, putting them in a USPS mail bin and then browsing for more. After taking what he came for, the thief goes off camera to retrieve what Moulton believed was either toilet bowl cleaner or window cleaner and paper towels to try to clean up blood he left after cutting his hand or arm while breaking the cabinet glass. Among the rare comics stolen was the first Avengers comic which is valued at up to $14,000 (stock) 'From what the police told us he didnt bandage the wound so he was bleeding while he was doing this,' Moulton said. It appears the thief then picked up what were presumably bloodied pieces of glass and put them into the bin with the comics and then casually left the scene. The whole incident appears to have taken less than a handful of minutes. Mile High Comics posted a notice on their Facebook page Sunday afternoon, apologizing for opening late because they 'had to keep the store closed until the crime scene guys finished collecting evidence.' The store also revealed the list of comics that were stolen and asked patrons to alert them if they heard anything about the stolen goods a wise move considering Denver Pop Culture Comic Con starts on May 31. Images from the aftermath of the crime show piles of broken glass beneath the pillaged glass cabinets, as well as a bottle of toilet bowl cleaner. A spray bottle can also be seen sitting on an empty shelf. Mile High Comics shared this image of the man they claim was responsible for the burglary The store also shared a photo of the damaged cabinet and empty shelving spaces where the stolen comics used to reside 'Were just hoping we can get the books back in somewhat the same condition that they were in,' Moulton told 9 News. 'But if the books have blood all over them, thats not a good thing.' The thief appeared to have gained entrance to the store by bypassing its security systems. Moulton said that they would be upgrading the mammoth store's security systems immediately. He also said that it 'Whoever did it knew what they were going for.' Mile High Comics touts itself as being 'America's Largest & Friendliest Comics Retailer' with 10million comics at hand. Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to call the Denver Police Department at (720) 913-2000. Chancellor Angela Merkel's heir apparent faced criticism from across Germany's political spectrum today after she called for rules on expressing online opinions before elections in response to a YouTube video that criticised her party. Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, who replaced Merkel as leader of the ruling Christian Democratic Union (CDU) last year, denied she was promoting censorship. Her comments came after a popular 26-year-old YouTuber called Rezo called on Germans to boycott the CDU and its sister Social Democratic Party (SDP). Both parties were hammered in this weekend's European Parliament Elections, with voters, particuarly those under 30, deserting the conservative CDU and SPD coalition. Merkel appears to have withdrawn support for her successor, claiming she is not up to the top job, and is more determined than ever to stay in office until the end of her term, according to Bloomberg. Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, Chairwoman of Germany's Christian Democratic Union party (CDU) attends a news conference in Berlin yesterday Government sources claim Merkel has refused to spend any more political capital on supporting AKK after the party suffered its worst election result ever last week. The new leader has slid in opinion polls in recent months after a series of gaffes that have raised questions about her suitability for the role of Chancellor. Kramp-Karrenbauer's victory last December in a tight race to succeed Merkel as leader of the CDU put the 56-year-old in pole position to become the next German Chancellor. Merkel now wants to hold on to her job until her term ends in 2021 and will face an awkward encounter with her rumoured successor when the party meets next week to reflect on their election result. In March, Kramp-Karrenbauer drew sharp criticism from her Social Democrat coalition partners for poking fun at transgender people in a light-hearted carnival speech. In February, she was ridiculed for addressing a high-profile meeting of her conservative CDU party by calling them Social Democrats. In an opinion piece in its online edition on Tuesday, the Sueddeutsche Zeitung wrote: 'Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer is making so many mistakes that her suitability as chancellor must be in doubt.' The politician denied she was promoting censorship after her comments, which were prompted by a YouTube video by a popular 26-year-old blogger named Rezo, pictured In Rezo's video, seen by millions ahead of the vote, the vlogger called on voters to reject the two parties for betraying the young by not addressing the climate crisis. 'I asked myself what would be the response in this country if say 70 newspapers issued a joint appeal two days before the election, saying: 'Don't vote CDU or SPD.'' Kramp-Karrenbauer, widely known by her initials AKK, told reporters on Monday. 'That would have been clear propagandising before the election, and I believe it would have unleashed a lively debate,' she added. 'So the question remains: what are the rules from the analogue era and how do they apply in the digital era?' She later defended her remarks: 'It is absurd to assume that I want to regulate opinions,' she tweeted. 'But what we have to talk about are the rules that apply during election campaigns.' Political opponents and allies alike responded with a mix of outrage and surprise. Armin Laschet, a fellow conservative who leads North Rhine-Westfalia, Germany's largest state, quoted the free speech clause of Germany's constitution in a speech. 'Seventy years old but still just right for YouTube. The constitution protects freedom of opinion in all media,' he said, according to a tweet from his staff. The leader of the pro-business Free Democrats, Christian Lindner, tweeted: 'I can hardly believe it... On the contrary, we need more open debate - on social media too.' Niema Movassat, a lawmaker with the far-left Linke, tweeted that Kramp-Karrenbauer's comments were 'an attack on freedom of opinion' and added that she 'should resign immediately.' Germany does not have restrictions on publishing opinions in newspapers ahead of an election, although it does require broadcasters to be politically balanced. A grandfather has revealed the harrowing moment he barely escaped with his life after he tricked a gunman into thinking he was dead. Kelvin Tennant, 74, was shot once in the stomach and twice in the face at Myrtleford, in northeast Victoria, on February 18, 2017. Moments before, he had been riding his bike along a dirt track when he noticed a car parked ahead, A Current Affair reported. As he slowed down, the driver of the car walked to the back of the vehicle before unloading three shots at point blank range. A grandfather has revealed the harrowing moment he barely escaped with his life after he tricked a gunman into thinking he was dead (pictured, Kelvin Tennant) Kelvin Tennant, 74, was shot once in the stomach and twice in the face at Myrtleford, in north-east Victoria, on February 18, 2017 An injured Mr Tennant fell to the ground, where his survival instinct immediately kicked in. 'I deliberately played dead, thinking if he thinks I'm dead, he might go away,' he said. 'So he would have seen me hit the ground, let that long breath out, lying perfectly still, and thought, "well I've succeeded in doing it, I've killed him".' The gunman promptly fled the scene before Mr Tennant was taken to hospital where he underwent surgery. One of the bullets that struck his face had fragmented and was only millimetres away from his brain. He spent 20 days recovering before he was finally discharged. And since then, he has been determined to help police hunt down his would-be killer. 'There's a man out there who doesn't deserve to enjoy freedom,' he said. Police have been left stumped at the circumstances surrounding the attack. Investigator Elise Douglas said she didn't know why Mr Tennant was targeted, or why the driver was at the bike track. '(The shooter) reversed their car into that particular point along the rail trail for some reason, and their presence there has caused Kelvin to be shot.' A $500,000 reward has been issued for any information that may lead police to find the gunman. One of the bullets that struck his face had fragmented and was only millimetres away from his brain President Donald Trump and his administration are planning an attack on the science upon which climate change policy rests, it was revealed on Tuesday. Leading the charge will be the administration's new climate review panel led by a 79-year-old Princeton physicist who has become famous for defending the use of carbon dioxide - even comparing its demonization to the treatment of Jews under German dictator Adolf Hitler. 'The demonization of carbon dioxide is just like the demonization of the poor Jews under Hitler,' said William Happer, who serves on the National Security Council as the president's deputy assistant for emerging technologies, to The New York Times. President Donald Trump and his administration are planning an attack on the science upon which climate change policy rests Leading the charge is Princeton physicist William Happer, who serves on the National Security Council, and compared the demonization of carbon dioxide to the treatment of Jews under German dictator Adolf Hitler Happer is backed by National Security Adviser John Bolton, who brought him on board and supports the new climate panel. The two men are also backed by Robert and Rebekah Mercer, the ultra-conservative billionaire and his daughter who have funded efforts to debunk climate science. But some administration officials - such as economic adviser Larry Kudlow - have advised the president not to follow Happer's recommendations as it would be seen as an attack on science. Former White House counselor Stephen Bannon, known for his far-right views, is even against it. 'The very idea will start a holy war on cable before 2020,' he told the newspaper. 'Better to win now and introduce the study in the second inaugural address.' But Trump is reported to be unpersuaded by their comments. Happer is backed by National Security Adviser John Bolton (left) although officials like White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow (right) have expressed skepticism of Happer Happer and Bolton are backed by billionaire Robert Mercer and his daughter Rebeckah Mercer Additional steps the administration is taking include cutting back on reporting about the future effects of the rapidly warming planet. James Reilly, the White House-appointed director of the United States Geological Survey, has ordered that scientific assessments produced by his office use only computer-generated climate models that project the impact of climate change through 2040, rather than through the end of the century, as had been done previously, the Times reported. Scientists argue that is misleading because the biggest effects of climate change will be felt after 2040. 'What we have here is a pretty blatant attempt to politicize the science - to push the science in a direction that's consistent with their politics,' said Philip Duffy, the president of the Woods Hole Research Center, to the Times. 'It reminds me of the Soviet Union,' he noted. Trump has rolled back Obama-era climate regulations since he took office. He also withdrew the United States from the Paris Climate Accord. And he's personally show plenty of skepticism about global warming. In January, as winter storms hit the Midwest, Trump tweeted: 'Wouldn't be bad to have a little of that good old fashioned Global Warming right now!' And, a few days later, he tweeted: 'What the hell is going on with Global Waming? Please come back fast, we need you!' In March he tweeted a comment from a climate skeptic, Patrick Moore, who was identified by Fox News as a co-founder of Green Peace - although the organization said that is incorrect. 'Patrick Moore, co-founder of Greenpeace: 'The whole climate crisis is not only Fake News, it's Fake Science. There is no climate crisis, there's weather and climate all around the world, and in fact carbon dioxide is the main building block of all life.' @foxandfriends Wow!,' Trump tweeted on March 12. As Trump and his administration have pushed their climate views, reports from his government have been used to debunk some of those claims. It was reported earlier this year that the National Climate Assessment - a report produced of 13 government agencies - found the U.S. economy could lose hundreds of billions of dollars by the end of the century because of climate change. That 2018 report also showcased the dire effects of climate change and warned they could get worse. President Trump has publicly expressed skepticism of climate change The National Climate Assessment report is now under target from the Trump administration. The next report, which is expected to come out in 2021 or 20222, will not have the worst-case scenario projections that were automatically included in previous editions. Trump has expressed skepticism about the report, telling The Washington Post in a November 2018 interview: 'One of the problems that a lot of people like myself, we have very high levels of intelligence but we're not necessarily such believers.' 'As to whether or not it's man-made and whether or not the effects that you're talking about are there, I don't see it,' he added. And White House press secretary Sarah Sanders told the Post of the report: 'We think that this is the most extreme version and it's not based on facts. It's not data-driven. We'd like to see something that is more data-driven. It's based on modeling, which is extremely hard to do when you're talking about the climate. Again, our focus is on making sure we have the safest, cleanest air and water.' The climate policy changes from the Trump administration come among a heated Democratic presidential primary contest where voters name climate change one of their top issues. Climate change is a big issue in the Democratic presidential primary with Jay Inslee (left) and Beto O'Rourke (center) already offering plans and Joe Biden (right) promising one by the end of the month Climate change is caused by increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere A CNN poll in April found that 82 percent of registered voters who identified as Democrats or Democratic-leaning independents named climate change as a 'very important' priority in the primary contest. Candidates are responding. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee has offered a detailed climate change proposal as has Beto O'Rourke. Former Vice President Joe Biden is expected to announce his plan by the end of the month. Climate change is caused by increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which is the result of the burning of fossil fuels, which trap the planet's heat. Since the Industrial Revolution, the average temperature of Earth has increased by one degree Celsius. The 'heartbroken' family of an American lawyer who died on his descent from Everest have paid tribute to the 'inveterate climber' who 'passed away doing what he loved.' Colorado resident Christopher John Kulish, 62, became the 11th person to die descending the world's highest peak in the space of 10 days on Monday, after scaling the 29,029-foot peak from the normal Southeast Ridge route. He died suddenly at South Col from what is believed to be a heart attack following his summit among a 'small group and no crowds', according to a statement by a mountaineering organization. His family said in a touching statement: 'We are heartbroken by the news. Chris, who turned 62 in April, went up with a very small group in nearly ideal weather after the crowds of last week had cleared Everest. Colorado resident Christopher John Kulish, 62, became the 11th person to die descending the world's highest peak in the space of 10 days on Monday, after scaling the 29,029-foot peak from the normal Southeast Ridge route. This is the final picture of Kulish, ascending Everest 'He saw his last sunrise from the highest peak on Earth. At that instant, he became a member of the '7Summit Club' having scaled the highest peak on each continent.' The family continued in their statement to CBS: 'An attorney in his 'day job' - he was an inveterate climber of peaks in Colorado, the West and the world over. 'He passed away doing what he loved, after returning to the next camp below the peak. He leaves his mother, Betty ('Timmie') Kulish, a younger sister, Claudia, and a younger brother, Mark.' Kulish is the second American to die in the last 10 days after reaching the peak. He was part of a group of climbers and he celebrated his 62nd birthday on the mountain. Massive line: In this picture taken on Sunday May 22, hundreds of mountain climbers line up to stand at the summit of Mount Everest. Many teams waited for hours to reach the summit, risking frostbites and altitude sickness Mountaineering organization Climbing The Seven Summits released a statement on Tuesday afternoon, giving a greater insight into his cause of death. It said: 'Chris passed away in his tent suddenly on the afternoon of 27th May 2019 at the South Col after successfully reaching the summit of Mt. Everest, thus completing his long-held goal of the Seven Summits the highest peak on each continent. 'Chris climbed strongly throughout summit day in a small team with no crowds and in good weather. He was in good spirits throughout the climb and following his arrival back at the South Col. 'Initial assessment suggest the cause of death was cardiac arrest however this is unconfirmed. Emergency first aid and rescue procedure were administered at the scene but failed to revive him. 'Chris was a quintessential lifelong climber who had been mountaineering since he was a teenager. We are proud to have had him as part of our team and are deeply saddened and shocked by his passing.' The route up the mountain includes several large obstacles and a huge moving glacier near to base camp as shown in the map above This year has been the deadliest for climbers on Mount Everest since 2012, when 10 climbers died. All 11 deaths in 2019 occurred during peak climbing season. Many deaths on the mountain have been attributed to exhaustion and tiredness, exacerbated by crowded routes to and from the summit which has led to dangerous delays - although this is not believed to have been the case for Kulish, who climbed in clear conditions. The family continued in their statement to CBS : 'An attorney in his 'day job' - he was an inveterate climber of peaks in Colorado, the West and the world over. While Kulish was a seasoned climber, expert Sherpa guides have told how there are now more inexperienced climbers than ever scaling the peak. It means that everyone waiting to scale the final stretch of the mountain is spending more time than they should with limited oxygen supplies at the very top. Officials have issued 367 permits to foreigners and another 14 to Nepalese mountaineers to climb Everest this year, according to a government liaison officer at base camp. News of Kulish's death on Monday came hours after a Canadian film maker described stepping over a dead body to get to the peak during a hike on May 23. Elia Saikaly, from Ottawa, said he tried to warn other climbers to head off the world's tallest peak, people who later ended up dead. The filmmaker said: 'Here we all were, chasing a dream and beneath our very feet there was a lifeless soul. 'Is this what Everest has become? He died suddenly at South Col in his tent following his descent from what is believed to be a heart attack, according to a statement by a mountaineering organization 'As I documented the team climbing the iconic step, my mind raced and empathized with every person who struggled to stay alive while undoubtedly questioning their own humanity, ethics and integrity. 'This poor human being perched 7,000ft above the Western CWM for everyone to observe was a reminder of each of our own mortality. Was this the 'Dream of Everest''we all imagined? 'My heart bled for the family and loved ones and at the same time I was conscious of the necessity to continue to move. At nearly 9,000m above sea level, there is no choice but to carry on. 'Who is responsible here? The individuals? The companies? The Government? Is it time to enforce new rules? Will things ever change? What's the solution here? 'With great sadness, as the cues pushed onwards and upwards, so did we, as did over 200 people that day. Sakaily posted this picture he took while he was on the treacherous mountain on Thursday - a dead body can be seen still tethered dangling from the mountain. Sakaily wrote: 'This poor human being perched 7,000ft above the Western CWM for everyone to observe was a reminder of each of our own mortality' 'I deeply apologize for the sensitivity of this post, but I feel we have a responsibility to inform aspiring future climbers of the seriousness of this undertaking while creating a dialogue around how to make safer, more responsible and more ethical choices with how we approach climbing to the top of the world. 'To those that lost their lives this season may their souls Rest In Peace.' The other American to tragically die on the mountain was Donald Lynn Cash, 55, who collapsed after reaching the summit. Two accompanying Sherpa guides helped him to regain consciousness but he later died on the descent. His son, Tanner Cash, opened up to NBC News about his father, saying that the last message he sent to him was: 'I feel so blessed to be on the mountain that I read about for the last 40 years.' Questions have now turned to who is to blame for the dangerous set of circumstances. Some say the Nepalese government is selling too many of the $11,000 permits required to climb the mountain because it needs the money. One climber who scaled the summit this week described the scene as 'scary'. Ed Dohring, a doctor from Arizona who dreamed his whole life of climbing it, told The New York Times that when he finally got to the summit this week, he had to stand 'chest-to-chest' with around 20 other people. 'It was scary. It was like a zoo,' he said. Irishmen Seamus Lawless 39 (left) and Kevin Hynes, 56, (right) also died descending the peak Utah-resident Donald Lynn Cash, 55, (left) collapsed after reaching the summit of Everest. British climber Robn Haynes Fisher (right), also died last week It was scary... it was like a zoo Doctor who climbed Everest last week and survived Guides who were operating on the Nepalese side of the mountain are now switching to the Tibetan side because they fear more will die. Tibetan officials are reportedly stricter about the number of climbing permits they give out. 'This is not going to improve. There's a lot of corruption in the Nepali government,' Lukas Furtenbach, one such guide, said. 'They take whatever they can get.' Nepal's government has denied that it is to blame and says instead that there have not been enough good-weather days this year . 'If you really want to limit the number of climbers, let's just end all expeditions on our holy mountain,' Danduraj Ghimire, the director general of Nepal's department of tourism said. Others have told how ruthless and 'obsessed' climbers become with getting to the top that they ignore people who may be struggling. 'I asked people for water and no one gave me any. People are really obsessed with the summit. They are ready to kill themselves for the summit,' 18-year-old Rizza Alee from Kashmir said. Another woman said that as she climbed to the top, she saw people around her collapsing but no one stopped to offer them oxygen for fear that they would die themselves. 'It was terrible,' she said. Experts on the German version of Antiques Roadshow have been slammed for convincing a mother and daughter to sell a unique papal crucifix said to contain splinters from Jesus' cross for just 37,000. Cosima Birk, who works as a nurse, and her daughter Stephanie Huber wowed experts of the TV programme 'Bares fur Rares' by producing a diamond-studded cross for the programme's experts to value. The antique turned out to be a 300-year-old papal pectoral cross - a cross worn on one's chest - studded with 40-carat diamonds. The relic Cross sold on Germany's Antiques Roadshow by mother and daughter Stephanie Huber and Cosima The German version of the BBC's Antiques Roadshow was blasted online after the programme's experts convinced Stephanie (left) and her mother Cosima (right) to sell a diamond-studded papal crucifix for a bargain price To top it off, experts on the show - which is the German version of the BBC's Antiques Roadshow - found that it contained three splinters said to be from the True Cross which Jesus Christ was crucified on, according to reports. The family inherited the cross from Cosima's maternal grandmother, who was bequeathed the precious jewel by an old woman who she always accompanied to church on Sundays. Expert Dr Heide Rezepa-Zabel said the discovery was 'amazing' and found that the materials used to make the cross alone were estimated to be worth 17,000 euros (15,015). She estimated the value of the pectoral cross to be between 60,000 and 80,000 euros (53,000 and 71,000). Rezepa-Zabel said that the perfectly intact seal on the back of the cross bears the symbol of the apostle Peter and 'clearly points to the Congregation of Pope Clement IX'. She also said she was certain that in the window of rock crystal, which is embedded in the antique, there are real pieces of wood from the cross of Jesus Christ. In the ensuing bidding battle, the papal cross was however sold for just 42,000 euros (37,095) to trader Susanne Steiger, although it was still the most expensive item in the show's history. Bares fur Rares host Horst Lichter (second right) and his art expert Heide Rezepa-Zabel (left) had never see such a valuable item on the table The owners from Rhineland-Palatinate sold the cross for a record sum of 42,000 euros (37,095) to trader Susanne Steiger, who wants to exhibit it in a museum Steiger said: 'I do not know what to say, it's almost like finding a needle in a haystack. I found it here tonight. I'm so happy.' She added that she now wants to loan it to a museum, adding: 'So many people have come to me who would like to see the cross, so I would like to make it available to the public.' Cosima and Stephanie, from Ruelzheim in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate, were also pleased with the sale. Although the item was sold for a price below the highest estimate, it will allow Stephanie to finish her studies debt-free and still have cash left over. Although it was sold for less than its value, Cosima and Stephanie were pleased that the money could pay for Stephanie's student costs The 300-year-old papal pectoral cross - a cross worn on one's chest - is studded with 40-carat diamonds According to local media, there was a wave of online complaints blasting the show for not sending the mother and daughter to a proper auction house where they might have received significantly more money for the pectoral cross. Christo Loco Knell wrote: 'In the big auction houses in the United States they would have easily got 100,000 or more for it.' Cuth Ana added: 'The two ladies allowed others to take advantage of them.' Lawyer Friedemann Ungerer even went further with his criticism and said the sale might even be illegal citing a paragraph in the German criminal code which defines immoral business and usury. On Twitter, Youtube and Facebook internet users have slammed the show, saying that the pair had been persuaded to sell the cross much below its true value Experts on the show also found that the cross contained three splinters said to be from the True Cross on which Jesus was crucified He said: 'In particular, a legal transaction is void by which a person, by exploiting the predicament, inexperience, lack of sound judgement or considerable weakness of will of another, causes himself or a third party, in exchange for an act of performance, to be promised or granted pecuniary advantages which are clearly disproportionate to the performance.' Ungerer said the law paragraph could be applicable here given the inexperience of Cosima and Stephanie. It is unclear if the mother and daughter will now contest the sale. Authorities are searching for a man said to have rubbed his genitals on a sleeping teenage girl in broad daylight aboard the subway in New York City on Sunday. Another passenger filmed the unidentified man after he allegedly pressed his body against a 15-year-old girl's torso and head as she slept on a Flushing-bound 7 train. New York City Crimestoppers shared the video of the man, saying he was wanted for sexual abuse and offering an award of up to $2,500 for information about his identity and whereabouts. The person who filmed the man is said to have yelled him to stop touching the teenager and then reported the incident to police. The incident occurred at around 3.45pm near the Junction Boulevard station in Corona, Queens. The man is said to have ran off the train at the Junction Boulevard stop, the New York Daily News reported. Authorities are searching for a man (pictured) said to have rubbed his genitals on the head and torso of a sleeping 15-year-old girl in broad daylight aboard the subway in New York City on Sunday, on a Flushing-bound 7 train The man, who was filmed by another passenger, appeared to be in his early 20s, standing between five-feet-eleven-inches and six feet tall. He has black hair. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black turtleneck, gray shorts and mostly grey sneakers with yellow, blue and white accents Anyone with information about the man's (shown) identity and whereabouts being asked to call Crimestoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). People can also message tips to Twitter account with username @NYPDTips The man appeared to be in his early 20s, standing between five-feet-eleven-inches and six feet tall. He has black hair. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black turtleneck, gray shorts and mostly grey sneakers with yellow, blue and white accents. Anyone with information is being asked to call Crimestoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). All calls to the tip line are confidential. People can also message tips to Twitter account with username @NYPDTips. North Koreans are often abused and forced to resort to bribery to survive, according to a UN report released today. A report from the UN Human Rights Office said as many as 40 per cent of the country go hungry after the collapse of socialist systems intended to provide them with food. Millions of citizens are currently working in hundreds of thriving markets that sprung up with the failure of the country's public system for distributing basic goods. North Korean farmers plant rice seedlings in a field. UN agencies have recently warned that North Korea faces more hunger, after last year's harvest was down North Korea is officially socialist but has overlooked some market activities since the public rationing system collapsed amid an economic crisis and devastating famine in the mid-1990s. Poor state reform measures and a broadly worded criminal code, however, mean that officials are able to extort money and other favors from people working at the informal markets by using the threat of arrest and detention. 'People in (North Korea) are trapped in a vicious cycle, in which the failure of the state to provide for life's basic necessities forces them to turn to rudimentary markets where they face a host of human rights violations in an uncertain legal environment,' the UN office said in a separate news release. The UN office said its report is based on 214 first-hand accounts of North Koreans who escaped from their homeland and resettled in South Korea. It said a majority of its interviewees left North Korea after current leader Kim Jong Un took power in late 2011. The UN office said it has no access to North Korea to independently investigate its human rights condition. Kim Jong-un has denied that there is widespread poverty in North Korea despite the collapse of the socialist systems many relied on for food North Korea is extremely sensitive to any outside criticism of its rights record, calling it a provocation aimed at slandering its government, which has been run by the same family for about 70 years. After its public distribution system broke down, North Korea took steps to legalize and regulate some of its thriving markets. The steps include charging rent for stalls, controlling prices and monitoring what products are for sale in markets. The government steps have not been deep-rooted and lack adequate measures to accommodate market activities, enabling officials to use laws on managing the socialist economy to criminalize a wide range of commercial activities, according to the report. It said there is also an absence of the rule of law and due process guarantees in North Korea and that a justice system serves to legitimize human rights violations. A local resident selling vegetables at the grounds of a cooperative farm that supplies fresh vegetables to Pyongyang 'The report finds that in effect, this threat of arbitrary arrests and harsh consequences that follow provide state officials with powerful means to secure bribes from a vulnerable population seeking to eke out the existence of rudimentary market activity,' Daniel Collinge, a UN human rights officer, told reporters in Seoul. 'The financial hardships of the struggling population are thereby compounded as money is extorted systematically to support state officials.' The report said North Korean officials are increasingly using bribery to support their low or nonexistent salaries. Some North Korean refugees said they worked at markets after paying bribes and freeing themselves from their state-run companies, which are struggling to operate, the report said. 'The state is no longer able to supply the materials to factories or to distribute the manufactured goods, so they rely on people like myself to perform these functions,' the report cited a former North Korean, one of its interviewees, as saying. Advertisement These are the amazing photographs of Scooter fans who were a major part of post-war youth culture in the mid-to-late 20th century. The scooter craze was started by mods were known for their love of Italian scooters such as the Vespa and Lambretta and continental clothes. They also enjoyed soul music and jazz. In the spring of 1964, amid fears of a breakdown in society, the Mods clashed with Rockers, who were rooted in 1950s Teddy Boy culture. Scooterboys, pictured, modified their Vespa and Lambretta scooters by giving them elaborate paint jobs and increasing the amount of chrome on the Italian made machines This scooter was photographed at the Isle of Wight rally in 1984. It features pinstriped paintwork, and chromed forks and exhaust. Scooterboys and girls would spend multiples of the value of the machine on their modifications These scooter fans were pulled over by the police for a check in the 1980s. The authorities were wary of large numbers of young people meeting up as there had been outbreaks of violence going back to the 1960s This scooter has been decorated with Motown records stars as soul music was an important part of the movement's culture Unlike the Mods, Rockers were into motorbikes and viewed the elaborate scooters ridden by their rivals as lesser machines. The first major clash happened on the March bank holiday weekend in Clacton, Essex, where 97 people were arrested. Throughout the summer, rival factions clashed in areas such as Bournemouth and Margate. The Brighton melee was immortalised in the film Quadrophenia. However, during the 1970s and 1980s the scooter culture evolved and has been captured in a new book Scooterboys, The Lost Tribe. This Scottish scooterist is guarding his pride and joy , which has a place to hold a half bottle of vodka in the footwell This scooter rider, left, was breaching the law by offering a pillion passenger a ride while using learner plates Sometimes the scooters looked completely different to their original incarnations, with these Street-race style Lambrettas Unlike the Mods, the scooterboys were never involved in mass outbreaks of violence. Martin 'Sticky' Round, who's written about the scene for over 30 years said: 'By the 1980s myself and tens of thousands of scooter riders collectively rejected that label. Instead, we took the roadmap of British youth disaffection and carved a new bypass. This route took us beyond the UKs faded seaside resorts, allowing us to spread our creed across the continents. 'Tuned and customised Vespa and Lambretta scooters gave us freedom to roam; transport to live for the weekend. Shared experiences of riots, local hostility and police harassment built strong fraternal bonds that endure to this day. 'Despite decades of two-wheeled rebellion our threat level was never high enough to put us on the national security radar. This low profile has its benefits. We arent doomed to follow the same cycle as Mods. First feared, then pilloried, accepted and finally adopted as part of UKs rich culture. As British as a vindaloo. 'The cult of Scooterboy has escaped death-by-public acceptance, simply by remaining too underground. Too difficult to distinguish from what came before. And thats just perfect. 'Youll never see Scooterboys parodied in TV insurance adverts or low budget fly-on-the-walls. The poorly-rendered caricature is always some cliche Mod on a "Christmas Tree" scooter. If you rode to rallies in the 80s and 90s then this book will mirror your experiences. If youve never had a scooter then it offers a rare glimpse of life inside the lost tribe of two-stroke terrorists. Some of the scooter boys radically transformed their machines - with this man removing many of the panels, leaving the bike's bare skeleton Because of the outbreaks of violence, many seaside resorts wanted to ban the 'scooterists' from entering their property This scooter, called Wake, was customised in the 1980s and has engravings, chrome and gold plating. The paintwork features intricate airbrushing According to the publishers: 'Scooterboys are the lost tribe of British youth culture. Unrecognised, uncelebrated and unwanted; misunderstood by a general public who mistook us for Mods. We werent Mods though. 'By the 1980s myself and tens of thousands of scooter riders collectively rejected that label. Instead, we took the roadmap of British youth disaffection and carved a new bypass. This route took us beyond the UKs faded seaside resorts, allowing us to spread our creed across the continents. 'Tuned and customised Vespa and Lambretta scooters gave us freedom to roam; transport to live for the weekend. Shared experiences of riots, local hostility and police harassment built strong fraternal bonds that endure to this day.' The book was written by Martin 'Sticky' Round, who began riding scooters in 1984 and spent 29 years covering the scene with Scootering Magazine and continues to write for ScooterLab.UK and ScooterNova Magazines. These scooterists were photographed attending a Scooterboy event in the early 1980s In the mid-1980s, these Psychobilly hair cuts were massive in the scooter scene Many women became involved in the scooter scene and attended rallies all over the UK, such as this one in the 1980s Police in Redcar, take names and addresses of Scooterboys arriving for a National Scooter Rally on October 4, 1985 The scooter craze even crossed the Atlantic with this rally in the USA near the Canadian border at Niagara Falls The various scooter clubs had special patches commissioned which were sewn onto their jackets to show their affiliation This scooter fan has patches from the various rallies he attended during the mid 1980s In a new book by Michael Wolff, the author and journalist claims President Donald Trump accused Jewish people of flipping loyalty, especially in reference to his former Jewish associates. 'The Jews always flip,' Trump said, according to Wolff's upcoming book Siege: Trump Under Fire. According to the excerpt from the book, which was obtained by The Guardian a week before its publication date, Trump made this remark after his associates made deals to cooperate with Special Counsel Robert Mueller. Trump's former fixer Michael Cohen, Trump Organization accountant Allen Weisselberg and American Media CEO David Pecker all made cooperating plea deals with Mueller's team they are also all Jewish. The book is set to be released June 4 and is a sequel to his 2018 book 'Fire and Fury,' which detailed Trump and his staff's behavior during the 2016 campaign and the first year he was in office. Journalist and author Michael Wolff claims President Donald Trump said, 'The Jews always flip,' in reference to his former Jewish associates that entered into plea agreements with Special Counsel Robert Mueller Wolff made the claim in his upcoming book Siege: Trump Under Fire, which is set to be released June 4 and is advertised as an 'explosive book about a presidency that is under fire from almost every side' The new book is a sequel to Fire and Fury, which looked at the dysfunction of the 2016 Trump campaign and first year of his presidency. The book came under fire from fact-checkers and even Wolff admitted he added stories in the book he believed were untrue It also outlined dysfunction within the Trump White House. A description of the new book on the publisher's website says Siege is an 'explosive book about a presidency that is under fire from almost every side.' Trump has been scrutinized in the past for remarks viewed as racial slurs or just insensitive. He often refers to Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren as Pocahontas, which stemmed from her claims to Native American heritage both on documents and applications and in speaking to the media and her constituents. The president said he would donate $1 million to a charity of Warrens choosing if she took a DNA test and it proved she was Native American. She released the results of a DNA test that showed she was 1/1024th American Indiana, which is less than the average white European American. The president also came under fire for calling people involved in the Charlottesville clashes very fine people on both sides. Trump has come under fire in the past for comments viewed as racist or insensitive, including calling Massachusetts Senator and presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren 'Pocahontas' for her claims to Native American heritage Neo-Nazi marchers and counter protesters conflicted in Charlottesville in 2017. Many people took the presidents remarks as his refusal to condemn white supremacists, who were protesting calls for the removal of the Robert E. Lee statue in the Virginia city. Its not clear if there is any validity to Wolffs claims that Trump has come fater Jews for being flip.' Wolff's first book was highly scrutinized by fact-checkers, and the author admitted he included stories that he believed were not true. The follow-up book is also facing the same sort of doubts, even before its publication. He says that certain claims in the book are 'based on internal documents given to me by sources close to the Office of the Special Counsel.' 'The documents that you've described do not exist,' Peter Carr, a spokesman for Mueller, told the Guardian. Cohen had previously served as Trump's lawyer, and was known as his fixer. He admitted he carried out distributing hush money payments ahead of the 2016 presidential elections to adult entertainer Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal, who both allege they had extramarital affairs with Trump. Trump's former fixer Michael Cohen, who is Jewish, agreed to cooperate with the special counsel and plead guilty to multiple charges, including admitting he had carried out hush-money payments ahead of the 2016 election American Media Inc. CEO David Pecker (left) and Trump Organization accountant David Weisselberg (right) were also involved in payments that kept women quiet about affairs with Trump. The two both Jewish also made cooperation agreements with Mueller The former attorney entered into a plea agreement in 2018 to cooperate with the special counsel's investigation, and admitted to lying to congressional panels investigation Russian interference. The former attorney entered into a plea agreement in 2018 to cooperate with the special counsel's investigation, and admitted to lying to congressional panels investigation Russian interference. Pecker, as well as American Media Inc., which is the parent company of National Enquirer, were given immunity from prosecution. AMI admitted it made a $150,000 payment to ensure McDougal did not publicize her story of her affair with Trump before the 2016 election, and went further to admit the purpose of the payments was to suppress the story so it did not influence the election negatively for Trump. Weisselberg, a Trump loyalist who was the individual that helped set up financing for the payments, also reached an immunity deal with prosecutors after being subpoenaed. Wolff's book alleges that Trump generalized Jews flipping loyalties after making plea agreements with Mueller. The special counsel began investigating Russian interference in the 2016 elections in 2017. Mueller's 448-page report with findings from the probe was made public in April. The report said the investigation found no evidence that Trump, his associates, those in his campaign or within his administration had conspired with the Kremlin to influence the outcome of the 2016 elections. Trump says the findings fully exonerate him from all crimes, including obstruction of justice, which the report did not weigh in on. Alexander Whipple is seen in a surveillance image released by cops on Tuesday Dark details have emerged in the case of a missing five-year-old girl in Utah, as the search enters its third day and police say their suspicion is focused on an uncle of the young girl. On Tuesday, as the search continued for missing Elizabeth 'Lizzy' Shelley, police in Logan, Utah released new images of her uncle Alexander Whipple, 21, who is being held on an outstanding warrant. According to a probable cause affidavit, when Whipple was arrested on Saturday afternoon, he had a metal baseball bat shoved in his back pocket and hidden under his jacket along his back - though cops say the bat is not part of the evidence in the disappearance. Police say they recovered DNA evidence directly tying Whipple to Elizabeth's disappearance. The evidence also indicates that the girl is hurt, police said. 'We would never dash the hope that we would find her alive,' Logan Police Chief Gary Jensen said at a news conference on Tuesday. 'But it's certainly a concern for us at this point; Lizzy's safety.' Elizabeth Shelley (pictured) was last seen at 2am on Saturday in her Logan, Utah home and was missing when the family woke up the following morning a little after 9am Police say this surveillance image shows Whipple on Friday, the day before Elizabeth disappeared, and urged the public to check home surveillance cameras for images of him Searchers look for signs of 5-year-old Elizabeth Shelley on Monday in Nibley, Utah Hundreds of federal, state and local law enforcement officials have joined the search for Lizzy The newly released images show Whipple on Friday, the day before Elizabeth disappeared, and cops hope residents may be able to identify Whipple on home security footage from the clothing he was seen wearing. 'Everything he has done has been quite deceitful, and we have no reason to believe that anything he told us was accurate,' Logan Police Captain Tyson Budge said of Whipple at a press conference on Monday. Jensen said police have 'strong evidence' including the DNA, linking Alex Whipple to the disappearance of Shelley. He is expected to make a court appearance Tuesday in Logan. Timeline of Elizabeth Shelley disappearance Evening of May 24: Alexander Whipple arrives at his sister Jessica's home in Logan to visit. May 25, 2am: Elizabeth is accounted for as the family goes to sleep. May 25, 6:46am: Surveillance footage shows a man that appears to be Whipple walking alone two blocks from the house. The man's pants appear wet or muddy from the knees down. 9am: Family members awake to find both Elizabeth and Whipple gone. 1.30pm: Whipple is spotted on foot at the Shortstop convenience store in Hyrum, about eight miles south from the home. He is alone and a clerk says he looks disheveled as if he's on a binge. He buys beer and cigarettes. 3pm: Cache County Sheriff's deputies locate and arrest Whipple in southern Cache Valley, 10 miles from the home. Advertisement Elizabeth's family say that they last saw her around 2am on Saturday morning, when Whipple arrived at the home for a visit. A little after 9am on Saturday, the family awoke and found that Elizabeth and Whipple were both missing. At around 1.30pm, employees at a gas station in Hyrum say they spotted Whipple enter the store alone, though they didn't realize at the time that the girl was missing or he was suspected. 'He was walking this way from the townhouses over there, to come in here to buy something,' Hyrum Shortstop employee Ryan Liljenquist told KSTU-TV. Liljenquist said that Whipple was alone, and purchased some beer and cigarettes. 'Disheveled, like he had been on a binge of some kind,' Liljenquist recalled. 'He was wearing a gray hoodie. Underneath that hoodie, was a kind of a suit and tie, something really weird.' Police have also been provided with surveillance footage from near the family's home that may show Whipple. The video, taken at 6:46am on Saturday about two blocks from the home, shows a man in a grey hoodie walking alone. His pants appear wet or muddy from the knees down. Logan City Police said that they have located 'several items of interest' near the home, and that forensic testing linked this evidence to both Elizabeth and Whipple. Cops declined to specify the nature of the evidence or the forensic link, except to say that it 'connects Mr. Whipple to the residence from which she went missing and to Elizabeth herself.' At about 3pm on Saturday, Cache County Sheriff's deputies located Whipple and approached him, reportedly finding him with some of Elizabeth's clothing in his hands. 'He failed to identify himself and had a warrant for his arrest for not checking in with probation for is recent charges of receiving stolen property and driving under the influence. He was also in possession of drug paraphernalia,' Logan City police said in a statement about Whipple. Whipple was arrested on those charges, and questioned about Elizabeth's disappearance while being held in lieu of a $45,000 bond. After Elizabeth (left) disappeared, Logan City Police said arrested her 21-year-old uncle, Alexander Whipple (right), who had stayed at the family's home Friday night Searchers look for signs of Elizabeth Shelley on Monday in Logan, Utah. Shelley was reported missing from her home on Saturday morning, May 25 Searchers look for signs of 5-year-old Elizabeth Shelley on Monday in Logan, Utah Police have reason to believe the little girl is injured, and have tirelessly searched the area 'Mr. Whipple made several inconsistent statements at the very beginning and lied about his whereabouts which were already known,' police said in a statement. 'He was uncooperative throughout the interrogation.' Police executed search warrants on several locations connected to Whipple, and gathered trace evidence from his clothing and body as well. Investigators say that they collected 'confirmed forensic evidence from Elizabeth Shelley located from off his person.' Cops are asking anyone who may have information about Whipple's movements on May 25 to come forward and speak to investigators. Whipple was convicted of theft, failing to stop at the command of law enforcement and driving under the influence in January 2018. Records show that in March he told his probation officer of personal difficulties that were interfering with his treatment, and that in April he broke off contact with the probation officer, leading to a bench warrant for his arrest. Whipple has not been criminally charged in connection with Elizabeth's disappearance. When he was stopped on Saturday, deputies said they had probable cause to arrest Whipple on suspicion of: failure to disclose identity, unlawful purchase of alcohol by interdicted person, failure to stop at command of law enforcement, possession of a controlled substance (marijuana/spice), use or possession of drug paraphernalia, and transaction of a dangerous weapon by a felon. Meanwhile, Elizabeth's family holds out hope that she may be found safe and returned to them. Elizabeth's mother, Jessica Whipple (left) and father Wes Shelley have both made appeals for the girl's safe return. The couple have been separated for several years A family photo shows Elizabeth's parents Jessica Whipple and Wes Shelley soon after her birth. The couple have been separated for several years and Jessica retained custody Searchers look for signs of 5-year-old Elizabeth Shelley on Monday in Logan, Utah. Police have asked residents to search their trash cans for signs of anything unfamiliar A searcher lifts a well cover looking for any sign of the missing girl Elizabeth Shelley 'As a family, we are overwhelmed, scared and saddened by the recent, tragic events that have touched our lives,' the family said in a statement that was read aloud at Monday's press conference, according to the Herald Journal. 'We are grateful for all those who continue to search and help, and we would like to thank law enforcement, volunteers and all other agencies and businesses for their tireless efforts to find our daughter,' the statement continued. 'We continue to hope for the safe return of our sweet girl.' Whipple is the sister of Elizabeth's mother, Jessica Whipple, who is separated from the girl's father, Wes Shelley. In a series of cryptic and emotional posts on Facebook, Wes Shelley suggested that he believed in Alex Whipple's innocence, and that a 'cover up' was at work. 'Please keep praying for my daughter and Jess, she is also needs help. Izzy need to be found,' he wrote early on Tuesday. 'Someone is trying to cover something up and I know exactly how big it is. To [sic] many things that aren't being said,' he continued. On Sunday, Wes Shelley, made a comment on the Facebook page of his daughter's mother suggesting her brother is innocent. Shelley (pictured with Elizabeth when she was a baby) also wrote that he knows 'how it feels to have her go missing in the middle of the night'. Shelley didn't elaborate on that statement nor did he return a DailyMail.com request for comment on Monday afternoon 'I knew Alex and was good friends with him for a while before I met Jess. I don't think he could or would do it to his niece,' Shelley said in response to a Facebook user. Shelley, who claims that Jessica has refused to let him see his daughter, said: 'I seen how he was with her but, like I said Jess has ignored me for 4 years and I lost touch with Alex. A lot can happen in time. 'I just pray that my daughter is safe and gets home safe,' Shelley added. Shelley also voiced his concern on Jessica's page, saying he 'would appreciate a call' and that he's 'worried' about how she's doing. He also wrote that he knows 'how it feels to have her go missing in the middle of the night'. Shelley didn't elaborate on that statement nor did he return a DailyMail.com request for comment on Monday afternoon. 'We're very concerned,' Captain Budge told the Salt Lake Tribune on Saturday. 'At this point, we believe she's been harmed,' he added. Authorities have asked residents to check home video surveillance footage from 2am to noon on Saturday. Police said law enforcement officers and other volunteers have spent the weekend searching for Elizabeth. Officers have been going door-to-door and getting permission to search homes and yards of residents in the neighborhoods surrounding the child's home. Elizabeth is described as being 3'6 and about 40lbs. She has shoulder-length curly brown hair with bangs, and brown eyes. The Logan Police Department is asking the public to come forward if they saw Whipple or Elizabeth on Saturday, if they live in the Southwest part of Logan or along the area of 1200 West between Nibley and Hyrum. For that same area, individuals should check their yards, buildings, containers and garbage cans for anything they don't recognize. Call 435-753-7555 with any information. A Mississippi law enforcement officer accused of sexually assaulting a minor in his patrol car over a six-month period has killed himself with another officer's gun, days after he was placed on administrative leave. His body was discovered in a white Dodge Charger on Interstate 220 at 12.45pm on Monday - the same day a police conference was scheduled to detail the allegations against him. When asked if there was a connection between the two-hour highway closure, the Jackson Police Department spokesperson said at the time that it could not be confirmed. James Hollins, 29, was removed from his duties this weekend pending an investigation into claims by the mother of a 15-year-old girl that her daughter was the victim of statutory rape. James Hollins died by suicide after allegations he sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl in the back of his patrol car for six months emerged. He served in Afghanistan with the US Army His body was discovered in a Dodge Charger on the Interstate 220 Monday 12.45pm 'All matters involving assault we take very seriously. We want the family to understand that if at any point in time, there's evidence of wrongdoing going on, we will not hesitate to take action,' Sergeant Roderick Holmes had said in the press conference. The department said there would be an internal and criminal investigation into Hollins, who had been with them less than five years. The body was later confirmed to be Hollins who had served in Afghanistan with the US Army. He was found dead in his personal vehicle after having shot himself with another officer's revolver. While officers placed on leave do not always have their weapon confiscated, this may have been the case for Hollins. 'It's not known to us now if the officer even knew their weapon had been taken in the moment,' Mayor Lumumba told WBLT. The Facebook account of a woman who also appears to be an officer with Jackson Police suggests Hollins is a father and that she has two children with him. The Jackson Police Department said there would be an internal and criminal investigation after the mother reported her daughter had been a statutory rape victim over the past six months According to the lawyer of the victim's family, the teen was approached by Hollins and he befriended her. The alleged abuse took place several times a week over the course of half a year before the child's mother found out. Attorney Lisa Ross said the mother was asked if she had evidence when she made the allegation and she responded yes in regards to the videos obtained. Police viewed the videos and initial statements were taken from the victim. Attorney Ross said about the sexually explicit videos on Monday: 'You wouldn't find anything worse on Pornhub.' 'We plan to ask the United States Attorney's Office and the Department of Justice to take over an investigation of a Jackson Police officer who has repeatedly sexually assaulted a minor,' Ross said before Hollins' death was confirmed. 'What he did to this young girl was unconscionable and there's no telling how many others are out there... We want people who have seen something to say something.' The Facebook account of a woman who also appears to be an officer with Jackson Police suggests Hollins is a father and that she has two children with him. Hollins worked there less than five years Ross reported the allegations to police on Saturday but has complained that Chief Davis 'didn't jump right out in front of this'. Mayor Lumumba said the police chief notified him that he had been presented with videos of the Hollins and his victim. The mayor said Chief Davis asked for permission to place Hollins on leave, which he granted. Davis then contacted internal affairs and the department sent Hollins a letter, which he signed acknowledging the administrative leave. The mayor believes the police chief acted immediately. Lumumba said about criticism of the timeline for action: 'That is something that we don't need to add to the narrative. The narrative is already sad, and it's a bad story to begin with. 'That doesn't make me anti-police, but it does make me anti-police corruption.' Advocates for transgender rights won a victory Tuesday in the U.S. Supreme Court when the justices declined to take up a case seeking to eliminate protections for students seeking to use the bathrooms matching their gender identity - though the decision does not set a national legal precedent. The court's decision preserved a Pennsylvania school district's policy accommodating transgender students - and struck a blow against a conservative Christian group seeking to eliminate the bathroom rules. The Supreme Court previously scrapped plans in 2017 to hear a major transgender rights case involving bathroom access in public schools and has never issued a decisive ruling on the matter - which would establish national legal precedent. The justices left in place a 2018 lower court ruling that upheld the Boyertown Area School District policy, which was challenged by six former or current high school students. This 2019 file photo of the U.S. Supreme Court was taken in March 2019. On Tuesday the nation's highest court opted not to take up a case about whether schools could allow transgender students to use the bathroom for the gender with which they identify The students challenging the policy argued that it violated their right to privacy under the U.S. Constitution's 14th Amendment and a federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in education, known as Title IX. They were backed by the Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative Christian legal group that has been involved in several major Supreme Court cases. The Boyertown schools policy allows certain transgender students on a case-by-case basis to use locker rooms and restrooms that correspond to their gender identity. There is only one high school in the district, Boyertown Area Senior High School, which is located in the outer suburbs of Philadelphia. Democratic former President Barack Obama's administration in 2016 issued guidance to American public schools to let transgender students use the bathrooms that correspond to their gender identity, a milestone in the history of transgender rights in the United States. That and other Obama policies supporting transgender rights triggered a backlash from Christian conservatives and some Republican politicians. Just a month after taking office in 2017, Republican President Donald Trump's administration rescinded the Obama guidance. The administration has taken other steps to limit transgender rights including a Justice Department conclusion that a federal law against workplace discrimination on the basis of sex does not cover transgender or gay employees. The Supreme Court on January 22 allowed Trump's policy barring many transgender people from the military to go into effect, lifting lower court rulings that had blocked it on constitutional grounds while a legal challenge continues. President Donald Trump, shown here in a May 2019 file photo, rescinded federal guidance that protected transgender students by allowing them to use the bathroom of their choosing The Trump administration last week also proposed rescinding an Obama-era regulation that protects transgender patients under the Affordable Care Act, often known as Obamacare. Lawyers for the students challenging the policy said the high school did not notify students or parents about it. During the 2016-2017 academic year, the school district applied the policy to three transgender students. At the time the policy was introduced, the school district removed group showers in the locker rooms and replaced them with individual stalls. The district also added new multi-user bathrooms with individual stalls and built several single-user bathrooms. The American Civil Liberties Union represents a Pennsylvania gay and transgender rights group that intervened in the case in support of the policy. Among the student challengers, two still attend the school while four others do not. One of the students, identified in the case as Joel Doe, was 'embarrassed and confused' when he was in the locker room getting undressed with a transgender student present, his lawyers said in court papers. 'Joel Doe was marked down in gym class for failing to change his clothes, and he eventually felt forced to leave the school entirely,' the lawyers wrote. Lawyers for the school district said the challenging students 'failed to show any infringement of their rights' and defended the district's 'sound educational policy' in handling transgender students. The Philadelphia-based 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided with the school district in June 2018, prompting the challengers to appeal to the Supreme Court. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence is shown here in a May 27, 2019 file photo. Pence was the governor of Indiana in 2016, when he signed into law a strict antiabortion law The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld Indiana's GOP-backed requirement that fetal remains be buried or cremated, dealing a setback to abortion provider Planned Parenthood, which had challenged the provision. The unsigned ruling, with two of the court's liberals dissenting, said an appeals court was wrong to conclude that the law had an illegitimate purpose. Ultimately, the justices opted to stay out of the debate over a broader, blocked provision of the law that would prevent a woman in Indiana from having an abortion based on the fetus' gender, race or disability. The state had sought to have the the blocked provision reinstated so women and girls would not be able to terminate a pregnancy under those circumstances. Both provisions were part of a 2016 law signed by Vice President Mike Pence when he was still Indiana's governor. This October 2017 file photo shows the Supreme Court in Washington, at sunset. The Supreme Court is upholding an Indiana law that requires abortion providers to dispose of aborted fetuses in the same way as human remains The ruling stated that the court has previously said that states have a legitimate interest in the disposal of fetal remains. The court noted that in challenging the law, Planned Parenthood did not allege that the provision implicated the right of women to obtain an abortion. 'This case, as litigated, therefore does not implicate our cases applying the undue burden test to abortion regulations,' the ruling said. WILL REPUBLICANS GET TO CHALLENGE ROE V. WADE AT SUPREME COURT? The growing list of 'heartbeat' abortion bans are designed openly to get the Supreme Court to reconsider Roe v. Wade, with many Republicans gambling that a 5-4 conservative bench would overturn it. But is that the case? Here is how the case may - or may not - reach the Supreme Court. ROUND ONE: LITIGATE IN STATE COURTS The outcome does not matter too much in legal terms because the aim is to get to: ROUND TWO: PRO-CHOICE CHALLENGE Each of the laws passed by the states is going to be challenged in the local federal court by pro-choice groups, with Planned Parenthood and the ACLU litigating some already and getting ready for more. The heartbeat bills are fairly clearly incompatible with Roe v. Wade so it is likely a federal judge would first grant an injunction against them to keep them from being enacted, and order a full-scale hearing. This could be the pro-life movement's first chance to ask for a Supreme Court hearing, by appealing the injunction rather than waiting for a full trial in a federal court. Or they could wait for a trial - but either way the next stage is: ROUND TWO: FEDERAL APPEALS COURT All federal cases can be appealed to the next level - a federal appeals court. The country is divided into 12 geographical circuits and some swing liberal, some conservative. The best bet for the pro-life group to force a Supreme Court hearing is to get an appeal into a liberal circuit, where judges are likely to vote down a heartbeat bill. Cases are heard by three judges and can be appealed to the entire bench of the circuit. Missouri is in the liberal-leaning Eighth Circuit, so if its bill becomes law, look here for a challenge which would come from the state or its pro-life supporters going to the next stage: ROUND THREE: PETITION THE SUPREME COURT - AND GET JOHN ROBERTS ON SIDE Anyone involved in a federal appeals case can petition the Supreme Court to ask for review of the outcome. But the tricky part for the pro-life movement is that the Supreme Court is not compelled to take up a petition. So assuming a heartbeat bill has been blocked by an appeals court, the pro-life petitioners have to find a way to get a majority of the justices to agree to hear their appeal. That means getting Chief Justice John Roberts - the swing vote - to agree to hear the case. But he has made clear since his confirmation hearing that he wants a court respected by all sides and seen as above politics. So it is an uphill task to persuade him not to do the simple thing: keep the hypothetical block on the heartbeat bill in place without a hearing, ending the process without a public and divisive airing of the issues. Exactly that scenario has already happened in North Dakota, whose restrictive laws got struck down by the liberal Eighth Circuit. The Roberts court simply declined to intervene. But assuming a pro-life lobbyist or state, or group of states, succeeds in getting Roberts to agree to a hearing, the next challenge is: ROUND FOUR: WHAT EXACTLY WILL THE JUSTICES REVIEW? Just because the justices have taken up the case a pro-life lobby group want to push doesn't mean their dream of a full-scale Roe v. Wade challenge is anywhere near complete. The justices can look as widely or narrowly at the issue as they want, so could consider a detail in the case rather than looking at abortion in full. Roberts has been a 'gradualist' before, on issues such as gay marriage, so he might guide the court to consider far narrower issues. Examples could include allowing states to make licensing of abortion clinics more difficult, or restricting reasons for having an abortion, such as banning Down Syndrome diagnosis as a reason for termination. Pro-choice groups fear the most likely outcome of the heartbeat bills is not sweeping new abortion bans, but Roberts leading the conservatives to allow more restrictions to stay in place state-by-state without Roe v. Wade being overturned. Advertisement Liberal justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor both said they disagreed with the court's decision to reinstate the fetal remains provision. Justice Clarence Thomas, who supports overturning the Roe v. Wade decision that first declared abortion rights, wrote a 20-page opinion in which he said the provision promotes 'a state's compelling interest in preventing abortion from becoming a tool of modern-day eugenics.' No other justice joined the opinion, according to The Associated Press. Indiana's law was one of many passed by Republicans at the state level putting restrictions on abortion, which was legalized nationwide by the Supreme Court in the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling. The Chicago-based 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a 2017 permanent injunction issued by U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt against the Indiana law. She found the measure violated the constitutional privacy rights recognized in the 1973 abortion ruling. Indiana required that abortion providers bury or cremate fetal remains after an abortion. The law also forbade women from obtaining an abortion if the decision to terminate the pregnancy was based on a diagnosis or 'potential diagnosis' of fetal abnormality such as Down syndrome or 'any other disability' or due to the race, color, national origin ancestry or sex of the fetus. Indiana said the state has an interest in barring discrimination against fetuses and in protecting the 'dignity of fetal remains.' A similar fetal burial law from Minnesota was upheld by a federal appeals court in 1990 but the Indiana law and another like it in Texas, enacted in 2016, have been struck down by the courts. In Tuesday's ruling, the court said its decision not to review the second provision of Indiana's law 'expresses no view on the merits.' The decision comes as many states are passing strict abortion bans - many with the goal of reaching the U.S. Supreme Court in order to overturn Roe v. Wade. Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, Ohio and Georgia also have approved bans on abortions once fetal cardiac activity can be detected, which can occur in about the sixth week of pregnancy. Some of those laws already have been challenged in court (Kentucky's was blocked by a judge), and similar restrictions in North Dakota and Iowa have been struck down by judges, according to The Associated Press. The bill that Alabama's governor signed May 15 makes performing an abortion a felony in nearly all cases. Supporters have said they hope to provoke a legal challenge that will eventually force the U.S. Supreme Court to revisit the Roe v. Wade decision. The American Civil Liberties Union and Planned Parenthood announced last week that they have filed a joint lawsuit against the state of Alabama challenging the constitutionality of the new law, which is set to take effect on November 15. Under Alabama's Human Life Protection Act, it would be a felony for a doctor to perform an abortion, punishable by a minimum of 10 years - and up to 99 - in prison. At the last second lawmakers eliminated exceptions that would have allowed girls and women who are victims of rape and incest to end their pregnancies. The lawsuit comes on the heels of nationwide protests against abortion bans that have been introduced in many states and successfully passed in five so far. 'This law is blatantly unconstitutional, and the ACLU will not stand by while politicians emboldened by President Trump's anti-abortion agenda exploit our health and our lives for political gain,' said Alexa Kolbi-Molinas, senior staff attorney at the ACLU Reproductive Freedom Project. The lawsuit claims there are just three outpatient clinics in the entire state of Alabama where women and girls can obtain abortions and less than 0.001 percent of abortions in the state are performed in hospitals. Separate lawsuits challenging so-called 'heartbeat' abortion bans are pending in Kentucky, Mississippi and Ohio. The Heart Foundation (Australia) has been slammed for a confronting new ad campaign which has also come under fire from health professionals. The organisation has edited a powerful scene from its new Heartless Words ad campaign after being inundated with public backlash over the shock tactics used. But it has also defended the controversial campaign launched on social media this week, which suggests that people neglect their heart health don't love their families. The ad starts with a mother putting her little boy to to bed, telling him 'Every time I told you I loved you I was lying you are not my priority'. The Heart Foundation defended its confronting new ad campaign which sparked controversy In the next scene, a man helping his wife wash dishes tells her, 'I promised you my heart and I've given it away'. At a family gathering a man tells his loved ones: 'In time, this family will be filled with loss and sadness. But I won't care because I'll be gone.' The ad ends with a mother on her deathbed in hospital. 'It's not just my heart I don't care about it, it's yours,' she tells her little girl at her bedside. The grim scene has since been removed from the ad but the unedited version still remains on the Heart Foundation's social media accounts. A scene featuring a mother on her deathbed with a girl by her bedside has been edited out It also stands by the extraordinary campaign in an effort to reduce the 18,000 families devastated by heart disease deaths every year. 'Heart disease doesn't just affect you,' the foundation posted on Facebook on Tuesday night. The campaign has been dubbed cruel and heartless. 'You've not only failed at marketing but you've also failed at humanity. You've caused trauma to so many and stigmatised many more,' one person wrote on Facebook. One man tweeted: 'Without question the worst advertising campaign ever devised.' 'In time, this family will be filled with loss and sadness. But I won't care because I'll be gone,' this man tells his loved ones in the Heart Foundation's latest ad Others were offended by the 60 second ad. 'I have a genetic tendency to heart problems through inherited high blood pressure and inherited high cholesterol. I take medication, I have heart checks. I eat healthily, I exercise. I'll probably still get heart disease. How DARE you imply that I am irresponsible and uncaring,' one person tweeted. One man posted: 'I am a heart attack survivor. This is the most insincere ad campaign I have seen. It is a total insult to all of us survivors who have ever supported the Heart Foundation.' The ad hit a nerve for those who have lost loved ones to heart disease. 'My father died suddenly due to a heart attack when I was four. My grief was soon replaced by confusion and embarrassment. This ad would have exacerbated both,' one person tweeted. One woman added: 'If this isnt the most hurtful ad that Ive seen in forever. My dad died of hereditary heart disease. He battled it his whole life. Whilst your message is important, its deliverance is hurtful, insensitive and just plain ignorant.' The confronting Heartless Words ad campaign has been slammed by health professionals The organisation responded to some of the overwhelming online backlash. 'There's no doubt that this campaign has many emotional elements. The ads have been designed to get peoples attention but at the core of the campaign are some very serious health messages. The campaign is a powerful reminder of whats at stake,' the Heart Foundation replied to one Twitter comment. The campaign was slammed by experts, including Melbourne University youth mental health professor and Headspace founding director Patrick McGorry. 'So people are to blame for their illness? That's been precisely the basis for stigma in mental illness and addictions. Same for suicidal patients in emergency departments, where they are blamed and put to the back of the queue,' he tweeted on Tuesday. La Trobe University cardiovascular researcher Professor Grant Drummond also raised concerns. 'The Heart Foundation do a magnificent job of raising awareness of cardiovascular disease and rasing money for research, but I'd have to say on this occasion they have been slightly off the mark,' he told The Age. 'Heart attacks and stroke don't just affect sedentary, overweight, unhealthy or elderly people. 'There many young, fit people who lead very healthy lives struck down by sudden heart attacks and strokes so it's really important we remove the stigma that it is all brought on by your own poor lifestyle choices.' Another health professional took to Facebook to slam the ad. 'Having treated patients and had family members with no identifiable risk factors, who have presented with a cardiac event, including arrhythmogenic cardiac arrest, I dont see how victim blaming relates to any type of message you want to convey,'they posted. 'The degree of trauma this advertisement subjects family members of patients who have died of sudden cardiac events, cannot be underestimated. I am unsure how this passed your internal screening and ethical procedures.' The Heart Foundation has been inundated with public backlash on social media over the ad 'I promised you my heart and I've given it away,' this man tells his wife in the ad The ad sparked a war of words on air on Tuesday between 2GB radio host Ben Fordham and the Heart Foundation director of prevention Julianne Mitchell, who argued the aim was start an important conversation between loved ones. 'No, hang on a moment. When you say what we're trying to do, you're trying and you're failing to do what you say you're trying to do. The ad says that if a mum or a dad dies they didn't really love their child,' Mr Fordham fired back. Ms Mitchell replied: 'No, the ad is really saying the consequences of neglecting your heart health are important not only for yourself but for your family.' But Mr Fordham wasn't buying it: 'Hang on a moment, because you've got an advertising challenge in front of you, it's okay to tell kids who've had a mum or dad die, your mum or dad didn't love you?,' he asked. The Heart Foundation says the ad aims to start an important conversation between loved ones Victorian Heart Foundation chief executive Kellie-Ann Jolly apologised for any offence caused but still believes the campaign is necessary. 'We have taken a bold approach by using moments of family life that people can relate to in order to cut through and get Australians to understand their risks of heart disease,' she said. 'This campaign is necessary because more than 200,000 Australians have died in the past five years, 600,000 Australians are living with heart disease, and 13 million Australians have three or more risk factors for heart disease.' Heart Foundation chief executive Professor John Kelly told ABC Radio Melbourne: 'Some people will take offence and we apologise for that. But the level of complacency requires us to have this conversation.' Cell phone footage has surfaced of a man filming an Arkansas police officer during a stop when the cop 'pulled his gun' on the driver 'for no reason.' Edrick Truitt told WREG he started filming the cop during the incident that happened in the parking lot of a Double Quick store in HelenaWest Helena, Arkansas, early on Sunday morning. Truitt said he was meeting family members when another car pulled in front of him and he stopped to let the other car go by. Cell phone footage has surfaced of a man filming an Arkansas police officer during a stop when the cop 'pulled his gun' on the driver 'for no reason' Edrick Truitt (pictured) told WREG he started filming the officer during the incident that happened in the parking lot of a Double Quick store in HelenaWest Helena, Arkansas early on Sunday morning Truitt said he was trying to leave when police cars pulled up. He said he was afraid and started filming with his cell phone 'just in case.' Truitt's video shows an officer pulling a gun and ordering Truitt to turn off the car. But when Truitt moves his hands, the officer shouts to the other officers, 'He's got a gun.' 'Where?' Truitt shouts back. 'Shut the car off' the officer is heard to say. Truitt's video shows an officer pulling a gun and ordering him to turn off the car. But when Truitt moves his hands, the officer shouts, 'He's got a gun.' 'Where?' Truitt shouts back Truitt said the officer gave demands, but he didn't want to make even the slightest move and 'played it safe.' 'He was like, "That's a failure to comply," but if I would have complied, I would have got killed,' Truitt told WREG. The officer is heard telling Truitt to turn off the car and that he won't shoot him, adding that his body camera was on and filming. Truitt said the officer gave demands, but he didn't want to make even the slightest move and 'played it safe.' In the video Truitt appears to have kept his hands out of the car's window during the interaction with the police officer In the video Truitt appears to have kept his hands out of the car's window during the interaction with the officer. He was eventually pulled from the car by the cop. Police said they later found a gun in the back of the car. Truitt said he never denied having a gun and that it was out of reach and the officer had nothing to be concerned about. Truitt added it was a legal weapon. Police said they later found a gun in the back of the car. Truitt said he never denied having a gun with him and that it was out of reach and the officer had nothing to be concerned about Truitt was eventually pulled from the car by the officer. He was arrested and charged with failing to obey a lawful order Truitt was arrested and charged with failing to obey a lawful order. He maintains that his actions saved his life and prevented him from getting shot. Helena-West Helena Police officials said they are checking body camera footage to assess the situation and if any policy violations are found, they will be dealt with. It is being reported the officer on the cell phone footage has received death threats following the incident. A 17-year-old boy was critically injured when a gunman opened fire at a graduation party in California. Eric Morales was shot just before 1 am on Saturday at a party to celebrate his recent graduation at a house in the 100 block of West Caroline Court, Ontario, NBC Los Angeles reported. A group of friends and classmates from Montclair High School gathered at the house when an unidentified attacker 'fired several rounds into the crowd,' Ontario Police Department said. Eric Morales, 17, was shot in the head at a high school graduation party in Ontario, California A bullet struck the teen in the head and he was taken to Pomona Valley Hospital were he was said to be in critical condition. 'It is still unclear if the suspect knew the victim or was a guest at the party,' according to the police statement. 'The investigation has yet to identify a motive for the shooting,' the police department said. It is understood friends were trying to remove a disgruntled guest when shots were fired at the party. Police are looking for one shooter who may have taken off by foot but they do not yet have a suspect description. Eric's family set up a GoFundMe account to help cover his medical expenses. He is pictured here with his mother Wendy, (front left) and brother Fernie, (back center) A group of friends and classmates from Montclair High School gathered at the house when an unidentified attacker 'fired several rounds into the crowd' Linda McBride, who lives near the house, told NBC Los Angeles: 'When you think about it just being a party with their friends, celebrating graduation which is the next step of their life, and for something like that to happen, there's nothing worse.' A prayer vigil has been scheduled for 7 pm on Tuesday in the cafeteria lobby of Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center. A GoFundMe account was set up by the victim's brother and has so far raised almost $13,000 out of a $30,000 to help with his medical expenses. His brother wrote: 'My brother is someone who is full of life, radiant like the stars, and embodies the spirit of love. It is understood friends were trying to remove a disgruntled guest when shots were fired at the party. Police have asked those with information to call them at 909-986-6711 Police are looking for one shooter who may have taken off by foot but they do not yet have a suspect description. Candles and flowers are left at the house where the shooting happened 'Eric recently graduated from Montclair High School, on Wednesday May 22, 2019. As a Montclair local, Eric enjoyed the city skate park and spending time with friends. 'He had goals to make his parents proud by furthering his education at Mt. San Antonio College in the fall. 'Our heart burns for Eric and we ask for prayer and healing thoughts as he battles for his life.' He asked for friends, family, and community to donate what they can contribute towards his medical expenses. His brother added :'Everything makes a difference. We ask for your prayers and positive healing energy.' Investigators asked those with information to contact Ontario police at 909-986-6711, or Detective Joe Tirre at 909-408-1862. Advertisement Harrowing footage shows Sherpas desperately trying to rescue an Indian woman who collapsed and died on Everest - three years after exposing the Photoshop lies of a couple you faked their own ascent. Anjali Sharad Kulkarni, 54, from Mumbai was among three Indians who died after attempting to scale the peak amid chaos on the mountain which has seen 11 deaths this season. Kulkarni, a mountaineer with 25 years experience, can be seen flailing weakly on the snow as a team of Sherpas attempt to keep her attached to their rope last Thursday. In 2016, Kulkarni helped to expose Dinesh and Tarkeshwari Rathod, the Indian police officer couple who infamously made fake photos of their Everest ascent. Harrowing footage shows Anjali Sharad Kulkarni, 54, from Mumbai struggling on the ice as her Sherpas try to keep her attached to their rope last Thursday Kulkarni can be seen flailing weakly on the ground as the Sherpas desperately try to keep hold of her arm Anjali Sharad Kulkarni left and Sharad Kulkarni on Mount Lobuje - she had been visiting with her husband. He was able to ascend and make his way down, but his wife died Indian police officers Dinesh and Tarakeshwari Rathod who claimed they were the first couple to conquer Everest Photoshopped their snaps, pictured is the edited version She had told Buzzfeed at the time: '[The Rathods] done some minor training on the ice pinnacles near Everest base camp. 'However, neither had done the training necessary for the climb. If a team has not started acclimatisation until May 10, it is close to impossible to reach the summit on May 23 unless the Rathods are superhuman fitness stars.' The 11 climbers who have died on Everest in the past nine days May 16: Irish professor Seamus Lawless went missing on May 16 after reportedly falling. The search operation has since been called off and he is presumed dead. Friday: Irishman Kevin Hynes, 56, passed away on the northern Tibet part of the mountain. The father-of-two died in his tent at 23,000ft on the descent after turning back before reaching the top. Saturday: Robin Haynes Fisher, 44, collapsed and died only 150m from the peak. Last week: Four Indians, one Austrian, one American and one person from Nepal died on Everest. Monday: Christopher John Kulish, a 62-year-old American lawyer, died suddenly on his descent at South Col after scaling the normal Southeast Ridge route. Advertisement For an experienced climber like Kulkarni this was the ultimate crime and the couple were later subject to a professional inquiry for their conduct. Kulkarni also told how she went on another climbing expedition with the Rathods in Australia when they also made false claims about their ascents. The mother-of-two had dedicated herself to training for Everest and experience in mountains across the world. Kulkarni was on Everest with her husband Sharad Kulkarni when she died. Lhakpa Sherpa of Arun Treks and Expeditions, said his client died of weakness while coming down to Camp IV on the South Col of Everest. More than 120 climbers went up the 29,000 ft mountain last Thursday, with many being caught in long queues in the freezing wind and thin air. Nihal Ashpak Bagwan, 27, from India's western city of Pune and Kalpana Das, 49, from India's eastern state of Odisha, also died on Thursday during their descents from the peak. 'Bagwan died of dehydration, exhaustion and tiredness after being caught in the jam of climbers,' said Keshab Paudel of the Peak Promotion hiking agency that handled the climber's logistics. This year's Everest toll is the highest since 2014-15 when huge earthquakes triggered devastating avalanches. Anjali Sharad Kulkarni, 54, was on Everest with her husband Sharad Kulkarni when she died. The couple are pictured in 2016 Anjali Sharad Kulkarni (pictured with her husband in an earlier climb), 54, from Mumbai was among three Indians who died after attempting to scale the peak amid chaos on the mountain which has seen 11 deaths this season Last week a Canadian climber posted a picture of crowds attempting to reach the summit stepping over a dead body (circled) A photo taken last week on Everest shows heavy traffic of climbers lining up to stand at the summit of Everest The route up the mountain includes several large obstacles and a huge moving glacier near to base camp as shown in the map above Everest 'Death Zone' The death zone is the name used by mountain climbers for high altitudes where there is not enough available oxygen for humans to breathe - this is usually above 8,000 metres - 26,247ft. Most of the 200+ climbers who have died on Mount Everest have died in the death zone - often on the descent - where experts say there is a risk of switching of because of the achievement of reaching the top. At the top of Mount Everest, the average person takes in about 30 percent of the oxygen in the air that they would take in at sea level. Therefore, a human used to breathing air at sea level could only be there for a few minutes before they became unconscious. Most climbers have to carry oxygen bottles to be able to reach the top. Those who suffer in the 'death zone' quickly become weak and lose the ability to think straight and struggle making decisions, especially under stress. Climbers have described some who died in the 'death zone' as sitting down for a rest and then never getting up. Advertisement British climber Robin Haynes Fisher, 44, died in the 'death zone' - known for low oxygen levels - on his descent on Saturday after speaking of his worries about overcrowding on the world's highest mountain. In one of his last social media posts, he told of how he had changed his plans in order to avoid the 'fatal' crowds. He said: 'With a single route to the summit, delays caused by overcrowding could prove fatal so I am hopeful my decision to go for the 25th will mean fewer people. Unless of course everyone else plays the same waiting game.' Mr Fisher was described as an 'aspirational adventurer' who 'lived life to the full' in a statement from his family. Mr Fisher was the tenth fatality on Everest in the current climbing season that ends this month and the 18th in Nepal's Himalayas in the same period. Irish climber Kevin Hynes, 56, died in his tent at 7,000 metres in the early hours of Friday after turning back before reaching the summit. The father-of-two was part of a group from UK-based climbing company 360 Expeditions which was attempting to scale Everest. His death comes a week after Trinity College professor Seamus Lawless, aged 39 and from Bray, Co Wicklow, fell during his descent from the peak having achieved a lifetime ambition of reaching the summit. Robin Haynes Fisher, 44, died in the 'death zone' of Mount Everest - known for its low oxygen levels and had previously told of his worries around overcrowding on the mountain Seamus Lawless 39, from Bray, Ireland, fell during his descent from the peak having achieved a lifetime ambition of reaching the summit. Above: Mr Lawless after scaling Alaska's 20,000-ft Mount Denali last summer Colorado resident Christopher John Kulish, 62, became the 11th person to die descending the world's highest peak in the space of 10 days on Monday, after scaling the 29,035-foot peak from the normal Southeast Ridge route The search for Mr Lawless has been called off. Meanwhile, Colorado resident Christopher John Kulish, 62, became the 11th person to die descending the world's highest peak in the space of 10 days on Monday, after scaling the 29,035-foot peak from the normal Southeast Ridge route. He died suddenly at South Col after his descent and the cause of his death remains unclear. His family said in a touching statement: 'We are heartbroken by the news. Chris, who turned 62 in April, went up with a very small group in nearly ideal weather after the crowds of last week had cleared Everest. The other American to tragically die on the mountain was Donald Lynn Cash, 55, who collapsed after reaching the summit. Two accompanying Sherpa guides helped him to regain consciousness but he later died on the descent. An Austrian climber and two Indian climbers are also reported to have died, while an Australian climber is fighting for his life after being found unconscious about 7,500m on the northern slopes. Record numbers of climbers are cramming on to the piste during the spring season's good weather. There are 41 teams with a total of 378 climbers permitted to scale the mountain during the spring climbing season in Nepal that begins around March. An equal number of Nepalese guides are helping them get to the summit. A second conservative Republican blocked a long-overdue $19 billion disaster aid bill Tuesday as President Donald Trump reassured the tornado-damaged Ohio 'we are with you.' 'Storms overnight across Ohio and many other States were very dangerous and damaging. My team continues to update me with reports from emergency managers in the States affected. Listen to your local officials and be resilient. We are with you!,' the president tweeted Tuesday afternoon. His message of support came after Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky blocked 'unanimous consent' passage of a disaster aid measure, which is a top priority for some of President Trump's most loyal allies on Capitol Hill. Massie argued that if Democratic leaders like Speaker Nancy Pelosi thought the legislation was so important, they should have kept the House in session in Washington late last week to slate an up-or-down roll call vote. Rep. Thomas Massie blocked a unanimous consent vote on a long-awaited $19 billion disaster aid bill in the House President Donald Trump, seen here returning from a state visit to Japan with first lady Melania Trump, supports the legislation 'If the speaker of this House thought that this was must-pass legislation the speaker ... should have called a vote on this bill before sending every member of Congress on recess for 10 days,' Massie said as he blocked the measure. 'You can't have bills passed in Congress with nobody voting on them,' Massie said. 'That is the definition of the swamp, and that's what people resent about this place.' House leaders scheduled the bill to pass by 'unanimous consent' - meaning passage is assured unless a lawmaker objects. Leadership made such a move because the Senate passed the measure after most House lawmakers had left for their Memorial Day recess. Massie's move earned swift rebukes from top Democrats. Rep. Sanford Bishop of Georgia said his agricultural district was but one part of the country suffering from hurricane damage and that aid won't arrive until well after the start of planting season. 'Many will not be able to plant this year,' Bishop said. Hurricane Michael struck Georgia in the middle of last fall's harvest season. Another conservative, Texas freshman GOP Rep. Chip Roy, had blocked an earlier attempt Friday to pass the measure under fast-track rules, but Democrats tried again Tuesday. Eventual passage of the bill, supported by Trump and top leaders in Congress, is a forgone conclusion. Trying again on Tuesday was a political freebee for Democrats, who went on the attack right after the vote. 'The heartlessness of House Republicans knows no bounds. Just days after sabotaging a bipartisan and bicameral bill to provide urgently-needed relief to millions of American families reeling from natural disasters, House Republicans have repeated their stunning act of obstruction even after more deadly storms ravaged our country over the weekend,' said Speaker Nancy Pelosi in a statement. 'I cannot understand why any member would object to giving relief to so many millions of our citizens who have been badly damaged by natural disasters,' said No. 2 House Democratic leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland. Hoyer said the bill 'will be passed overwhelmingly' when the House returns next week. One concern of many House Republicans was a move by House Democrats last week to dump overboard Trump's request for $4.5 billion to address the crisis of Central American refugees at the southern border. Trump is a supporter of the measure, which swept through the Senate on Thursday in a rush to exit Washington for Memorial Day. Many Republicans, including southerners facing re-election, are frustrated that the bill has taken so long. After being denied his border money in a fight with House Democrats, Trump still embraced the bill, which directs much of its aid to political strongholds of his such as the Florida Panhandle and rural Georgia and North Carolina. The president and Melania Trump visited Georgia and Alabama in March after tornadoes killed 23 people. He often tweets in support of disaster ravaged areas. '.@GovMikeDeWine just updated me on the devastation from the many tornadoes that struck Ohio early this morning. My Administration fully supports the people of the great State of Ohio as they begin the cleanup and recovery,' he wrote on Tuesday. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump visited tornado-ravaged Alabama in March Ohio was hit by four tornadoes on Monday and Tuesday. One person died and 90 were injured. Passing legislation on Capitol Hill without any objection from any lawmaker is often trickier to do in the House than the Senate. 'I just think a unanimous consent, voice vote, on the way out the door - there's always, out of 535 (members of Congress) there's always a few who think maybe that's not appropriate,' said Sen. Ken Cramer, a conservative who presided over a moments-long pro forma session of the Senate on Tuesday. Cramer, who moved over to the Senate this year after spending three terms in the House GOP majority, also pointed out that the final disaster bill 'actually took out some of the things that the House conservatives wanted' such as billions of dollars to care for the influx of migrants seeking asylum after crossing the southern border. There are also newer additions to the measure to help Midwestern areas suffering from springtime floods, along with large chunks of money to rebuild military bases such as Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida that were damaged by a string of disasters dating to last fall's hurricane season. The measure ordinarily would have passed months ago but Trump injected himself into the debate, demanding that funding sought by Puerto Rico's elected officials, Republicans and Democrats both, be kept out. Democrats held firm in demanding that Puerto Rico, a territory whose 3 million people are U.S. citizens, be helped by the measure. Their confidence was clear from the outset and GOP resolve on Puerto Rico, never particularly strong to begin with, steadily faded as the impasse dragged on. The bill now contains more money for Puerto Rico, about $1.4 billion, than Democrats originally asked for. Roy said last week that lawmakers ought to go on record either way on the legislation, which is among the few significant bills to make it through the system despite the intense partisanship dominating Washington. Paul Newbury, 50, was found with a stash of thousands of paedophilic images and hard drugs at his home in Wood Green, north London A deputy headteacher who smoked a crack pipe while watching child porn has been jailed for two years and four months. Paul Newbury, 50, was found with a stash of thousands of paedophilic images and hard drugs at his home in north London. Newbury, who had been a teacher for 26 years, was associate headteacher at Acland Burghley School in Camden, whose ex-pupils include musician Ms. Dynamite and Sarah Brown, the wife of former Prime Minister, Gordon Brown. Newbury had a total of 1,296 images of child abuse including those involving a children as young as six months old. A review of his digital devices identified images and videos ranging from category A (the most severe) to category C. He also had a video of two men having sex with a dog, Southwark crown court heard. Police found 717mg of cocaine, methadone and crystal meth at his address in Wood Green as well as the chemsex drug GHB. The sentence of Newbury falls within the suggested guidelines as there were a number of mitigating factors, such as he was previously of good character, pleaded guilty at an early opportunity, and had no previous convictions. The upper limit for an individual charged with possession of Category A images is three years in custody, while the lower limit is 26 weeks. Prosecutor Timothy Forster told how Newbury had been a prolific member of a number of secret groups, including those hosted on the online video conferencing platform Zoom and the encrypted messaging app Telegram. 'It was through that route that Mr Newbury came to the attention of the authorities, initially in America by an undercover officer who was watching the activity. 'On the 12th of October 2017, Mr Newbury was online and on Zoom using the name 'north London'. 'He could be seen at the start of the session as a thumbnail. He was sitting on a chair and appeared to be naked and was smoking what appeared to be a crack pipe.' Newbury was working as an associate high school head at Acland Burghley School (pictured) in Camden, north London, at the time of his arrest Mr Forster told how the teacher watched the live-streaming of a horrific sex act involving a girl of eight and a user by the name of 'Daddy'. 'He masturbated throughout and eventually, after about four and a half minutes, ejaculated.' Newbury was again found to be using the Zoom application and was texting a fellow paedophile on 28 January 2018. During that exchange, Newbury told the other user he was 'Interested in all ages.' 'The evidence shows that Mr Newbury repeatedly visited and viewed indecent images that were being streamed on Zoom.' 'The defendant was also using Zoom to distribute indecent images of children himself.' Mr Forster explained that Newbury told officers he watched child abuse around three times a week and also used the encrypted messaging app Telegram. The defendant added other paedophiles to his sick online forums and shared pictures and videos of the most depraved sexual acts. The court heard how Newbury was actively involved at least five others in chat rooms, including those called: 'Santa Claus pervy sex with Santa', 'Love boys', 'Boys! Boys!' One of the secret groups told new members: 'Welcome to our fantasy perv group', adding that they preferred children 'The younger the better.' Mr Forster explained that many of the images were extreme in nature, with: 'Some showing oral and anal rape of children.' Newbury had one video 'showing two naked adult males in bed with a dog and it appears that the males are penetrating the dog with their penises.' The court heard that Newbury was arrested on the 14 February 2018 and admitted the sick crimes, telling officers: 'There could be no defence.' Sentencing guidelines for indecent images of children: How deputy head was jailed for just two years for his crimes When determining the amount of punishment for possession of indecent images the court needs to take into account the offence category of A (the most serious, B or C (least serious). The starting point for offences for a Category A offence is one year in custody custody. The maximum penalty being three years custody. The custody threshold increases if you are found guilty of Distribution and Production of the images. But the custody threshold varies. There are a number of mitigating factors that can affect custody such as no previous convictions, remorse and good character. Advertisement 'During the search of Mr Newbury's address, a quantity of a crystal substance was found, commonly known as crystal meth. There was clearly drug paraphernalia as well.' 'He accepted he used Telegram to acquire child abuse, he said he was sexually aroused by the discussion of child abuse. 'He admitted possessing drugs saying he used the drugs while viewing child abuse material.' Ashley Hendron, defending said: 'This is a spectacular fall from grace.' He said Newbury's conviction was 'embarrassing and shameful to him and those who know him.' Newbury is now working a painter and decorator, the court heard. Judge Deborah Taylor told Newbury: 'These are not victimless crimes, children are exploited and abused in making these images and the use and distribution feeds demand for more images and further abuse of child. 'You were a respected teacher for 26 years.' The top comprehensive is the former school of a number of well-known public figures including Ms Dynamite, Eddy Grant and Prime Minister Gordon Brown's wife Sarah. Newbury, from Wood Green, north London, pleaded guilty to four counts of making indecent images of children, one count of distributing indecent images of children, possession of a prohibited image, showing indecent images of a child and possession of extreme pornography. He was given two years for the indecent images and an additional four months to run consecutively for two counts of possessing Class A drugs. The judge also ordered the destruction the his iPhone and iPad as well as the drugs and passed a 10 year sexual harm prevention order. It is not suggested he was in sexual contact with any students and there is no link between his offending and the school - which sacked him on March 7 last year. A spokesman for the NSPCC said: 'As a senior teacher Newbury would have been responsible for the safety and security of children, but his actions have helped to fuel a market where children are horrifically abused to order. 'The internet is used as a gateway to child abuse far too frequently. The NSPCC is campaigning for providers to take greater responsibility for what's shared on their platforms and cut off this vile material at source.' NCA operations manager Graham Ellis said: 'Newbury and men like him who make and distribute horrific images of children are fuelling online child sexual abuse. 'The NCA knows that the scale and severity of this offending against children is worsening. 'Newbury was present when the live abuse of a 10-year-old girl was committed.'Though his offending was not connected to his school, he is guilty of a tremendous betrayal of trust. 'The NCA and our law enforcement partners will not stop pursuing these offenders and will do everything in our power to bring them to justice. Child protection charity The Lucy Faithfull Foundation runs the Stop It Now! helpline which offers confidential advice to anyone concerned about their own or someone else's behaviour towards children. High-profile brain surgeon Charlie Teo has slammed public hospitals for being 'unwilling to learn his technique' amid criticism of his $120,000 procedures. The Sydney-based medical practitioner has over the last decade taken on what other doctors deemed inoperable cases and offered brain cancer patients a second chance at life. But his reputation came under fire when a colleague slammed the 'disturbing' amount of online fundraisers run by patients unable to afford his expertise. Dr Teo has hit back and claimed NSW Health had told him it would have broken its budget had it allowed him to operate in the public system, The Australian reported. He said the organisation has refused to acknowledge he provided a different level of skill in some cases. Dr Teo, who claims to have performed 11,000 operations, said that neurosurgeons simply felt intimidated by him and subsequently refused to endorse him. A high-profile brain surgeon has slammed public hospitals for not accepting his technique as he defends charging hundreds of thousands of dollars for surgery (pictured, Dr Charlie Teo) Sydney-based medical practitioner Charlie Teo has come under fire for charging patients as much as $120,000 upfront for high-stakes operations 'Am I as good as people say I am?' he asked. 'If you speak to any neurosurgeon in Australia, they will say it's all rubbish so why is it I am lauded and seduced overseas by the best hospitals?' He said that if doctors formally invited him to operate in the public system, he would gladly make sure his patients weren't left out of pocket. 'It's all these egos of doctors who aren't prepared to say "Oh, this person is doing it better or that hospital is doing it better or that unit is doing it better",' Dr Teo said. He told Sky News that he had picked up work all around the world, though found a different attitude in Australia. 'I have these appointments everywhere to operate on the world's most difficult tumours and yet no one in Australia is prepared to invite me to their hospital to learn my technique. I mean there's something wrong there.' Dr Teo first came to attention after a colleague slammed the 'disturbing' amount of online fundraisers run by patients unable to afford his expertise. Professor Henry Woo, a urologist at the University of Sydney School of Medicine, counted as many as 113 GoFundMe campaigns had been launched by patients to fund the operations. In particular, Professor Woo pointed to a campaign that was launched for a cancer-stricken girl. 'Something is seriously wrong if a terminally ill girl with a brain tumour has to raise $120K to have surgery Dr Charlie Teo has offered to do for $60-80K,' Woo tweeted. 'If it was valid surgery, it could/should be performed in the public system under Medicare.' Professor Woo was referencing the case of Perth girl Amelia 'Millie' Lucas, 12, who made headlines last week after Dr Teo said he would perform open brain surgery that could save her life. Her family turned to GoFundMe and were able to raise more than $150,000 for the potentially life-saving surgery in 11 days, exceeding the $100,000 target they had set. Professor Woo said he found it difficult to reconcile Dr Teo's mantra of 'treating patients like your own family but leaving them financially destitute'. Dr Teo hit back on Tuesday, acknowledging Professor Woo had brought up an 'important issue'. Professor Henry Woo, a urologist at the University of Sydney School of Medicine, counted as many as 113 GoFundMe campaigns had been launched by patients to fund the operations The family of Amelia 'Millie' Lucas (left), from Perth, raised over $150,000 online so they could afford Dr Teo's surgery for a malignant brain tumour. Her sister Tess, 15, (right) also has the same brain tumour condition but has since been given the all-clear 'The difference between public and private (and the) cost of medicine needs to be discussed,' he told the ABC. 'But what you have to remember that of that $120,000 (charged for surgery) most people think it all goes to me, and that's not the case at all.' He went on to explain that a large portion of the surgery fee would go directly to the private hospital, while the remainder would be split between the various experts involved in the operation. 'For example, in the last bill of $120,000, I got $8,000,' he explained. 'It's not even a significant amount for me.' Professor Woo's tweets sparked discussion on the ethics of charging patients excessive fees for healthcare as well as the issue of public versus private institutions. 'The best surgeons practice in the public sector where their decisions are peer reviewed. It's always possible 2 operate - the question becomes - is it safe and sensible. Our public sector gives great care if you have a serious illness. No doctor's afternoon is worth $60K,' one person tweeted. Professor Woo, however, responded that adequate medical care exists in both sectors - but patients should be better informed on the fees. RACS executive director of surgical affairs John Quinn slammed the idea that patients should have to fundraise for surgeries that were already available in the public system. He called for guided financial decisions and reminded patients that its was misleading to believe a higher fee always came with a better service. Publicly-funded cancer treatment had been a topic of debate during the federal election. Labor leader Bill Shorten promised to cut out of pocket costs owed by cancer patients. Dr Teo hit back on Tuesday, acknowledging Professor Woo had brought up an 'important issue' A bald eagle that hatched live on a webcam last month died yesterday from suspected hypothermia. Two bald eagle eggs hatched in a California nest watched by nature lovers around the world via an online live feed. The first fluffy gray chick made its on-camera debut when it poked its head out of its shell on April 14 near Big Bear Lake east of Los Angeles. The second emerged the next day, but only survived just over a month as a freezing storm hit the area. Cookie the bald eagle was 'looking weak' and had trouble breathing, according to the Friends of Big Bear Valley charity that installed the camera. Another chick reportedly died last year under similar conditions. Baby bald eagles being nurtured by their mother in California mountains. A late-season storm brought in snow, rain and freezing temperatures Two bald eagle chicks with a parent on a nest in the Angeles National Forest near Big Bear Lake not long after the hatched The US Forest Service wrote on Facebook that a late-season storm lowered the temperature to 26F degrees (minus 3C) and brought several inches of snow and icy winds. It is likely Cookie died from hypothermia due to not having fully developed feathers to withstand the sudden cold temperatures. A spokesman for the Forest Service wrote on Facebook: 'It is with great sadness to announce that one of the bald eagle chicks in the Big Bear nest passed away this morning around 8am. 'Although we will not know for sure, hypothermia was most likely the cause. The late season storm yesterday brought overnight temperatures down to 26 degrees and a couple of inches of snow after it rained. 'The chicks at this age are too big to be both fully covered during brooding, and since their juvenile contour and flight feathers are not fully grown yet, it is hard for them to retain body heat if the downing feathers get wet. 'Rain followed by snow is never a good combination, as it begins to ice the body. The mother was observed this morning having a hard time shaking it off this morning. The two eagle eggs hatched last month and were filmed live on a webcam. But one of the chicks died on Monday It is thought Cookie died due to hypothermia from having underdeveloped feathers that could not keep out the sudden freezing temperatures 'The bald eagle mortality rate during the first year of life is greater than 50%. Once they learn to successfully hunt and forage, chances of reaching adulthood (5 years old) is good. And for that, we hope to see the remaining chick fledge next month to learn to do just that.' A count completed last year found 11 bald eagles living in the forest east of Los Angeles. The mother and a male companion took turns nestling over the latest chicks to be born keep them warm as a chilly wind blew through the San Bernardino National Forest. Forest Service spokeswoman Robin Eliason said at the time of the birth: 'I saw a little wing wave at us. Then I saw its cute little bottom sticking out of the shell.' Cookies sibling, Simba, appears to still be doing well, the Friends of Big Bear Valley said. The Institute for Wildlife Studies web page had thousands of comments from people watching the feed. The camera was installed by the group Friends of Big Bear Valley. Bald eagles were on the endangered species list until 2007 when they were removed as their population increased. After nearly vanishing from the US, they are now flourishing across the nation and no longer need protection. In this remote camera image bald eagles can be seen caring for a hatched eagle on April 15 in the San Bernardino National Forest, California A Mexican government minister has stepped down from her post after it emerged she ordered an airplane back to the gate so she could board it after running late for the flight. Josefa Gonzalez-Blanco had just missed her work-related flight to Mexicali last Friday morning when she issued the stunning 'presidential order' to Aeromexico staff at Mexico City airport. Much to the dismay of passengers who had boarded in time and were on the verge of taking off, the captain taxied the plane back to the gate so that the minister for environment and natural resources could board. A tardy Josefa Gonzalez-Blanco ordered Aeromexico to return a plane to the gate at an airport in Mexico City Josefa Gonzalez-Blanco (right) stepped down from Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's cabinet as minister for environment and natural resources after she said it was her decision to delay the departure of a plane after she arrived late at the airport in Mexico City for her work-related trip The tardy Gonzalez-Blanco, and another male passenger who accompanied her on the trip, boarded Flight AM 198, which was scheduled to depart at 9:30am local time and eventually took off at 10:08am. On Saturday morning she resigned as minister for the environment and natural resources amidst public backlash, including from passengers who were on the same flight. Gonzalez-Blanco stressed over a series of tweets that were deleted Tuesday morning that it was solely her decision and not an edict that came down from President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's office that forced the plane to return moments before it's scheduled departure. 'There was no presidential order to delay the departure of the plane,' she wrote on the social media platform. 'I'm the one responsible for what happened. The presidency never intervened.' Gonzalez-Blanco also took herself to task for her abuse of powers in a country plagued by corruption across all levels of government, including law enforcement and judicial branches. 'True change requires that no one has privileges and that the benefit of one, whether it be to fulfill its functions, is not above the welfare of the majority,' Gonzalez-Blanco. Josefa Gonzalez-Blanco is the second minister from President Lopez Obrador's cabinet to quit since last Tuesday The shamed ex-minister also tweeted: 'The transformation of Mexico begins with personal conviction and the congruence of our actions. That is why I have submitted my resignation to President Lopez Obrador. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Mexico and will continue to do so from other trenches.' Since Lopez Obrador took office in December, the leftist leader has taken commercial flights after making a campaign pledge to sell his predecessors luxury 787 Dreamliner presidential plane. The aircraft is worth almost $300million and is currently sitting in a hangar in California. Gonzalez-Blanco is the second minister to have quit the Mexican president's cabinet in a week. German Martinez, head of Mexicos social security institute, abandoned his post last Tuesday over differences with budget cuts and lay-offs ordered by Lopez Obradors finance minister which he charged were harming health services for the poor. A Kentucky jury deciding the fate of a man accused of killing his five children has heard testimony from a preacher who revealed that defendant Timothy Jones Jr 'prayed in tongues' and believed the clerics wife was trying to seduce him. Jones is on trial for the 2014 murders of his sons, Nahtahn, Elias and Gabriel, and daughters, Merah and Abigail. If convicted, he could face the death penalty. Jones has confessed to the beating and strangulation murders in a videotaped police interview following his arrest, but pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. The prosecution rested its case last Wednesday after calling more than 30 witnesses, including Jones ex-wife and the mother of the victims, Amber Kyzer, who broke down in tears on the stand, exclaiming, Oh God, My babies. Timothy Jones Jr is pictured in court on Friday during his death penalty trial in Kentucky for the 2014 murders of his five children Timothy Jones Jr beat to death his six-year-old son, Nahtahn (pictured), after the child broke an electrical outlet, causing the dad to snap Jones then used a belt to strangle one-year-old Abigail (left) and two-year-old Gabriel (right) Eight-year-old Merah (left) watched her father kill her seven-year-old brother Elias (right) and was then strangled herself On Friday, the 18 jurors sitting in judgement of Jones heard from Pastor Micah Sutton, who officiated the defendants wedding with Kyzer in 2004, reported the Greenville News. Jones joined Sutton's Pentecostal church in suburban Chicago in 2003 after the defendant finished serving a year in prison on charges of cocaine possession, burglary and car theft. I used to joke with my wife that we had a church of 25 and Tim was the only one who could make every one of them upset,' Sutton told the court. Sutton described Jones as a devout Christian who could freely quote from Scripture, and who used his deep knowledge of the Bible to win arguments with other members of the congregation. The pastor described his former congregant as a disruptive force who had no sense of boundaries. According to Sutton's testimony, Jones came to him one day saying that the attire and the manner of speaking of the preacher's wife suggested that she was trying to seduce him. Jones' grandmother, Roberta Thornsberry (left and right), took the stand as a witness for the defense and talked about his traumatic childhood as the son of a schizophrenic mother I explained to him that my wife is an extreme introvert, Sutton recounted. Sutton also noted that on occasion, Jones told him, 'it seems like there's a monster in my trying to get out.' Next to testify was couple's therapist April Hames, who is 2013 wrote an affidavit at Jones' request recommending that he be given sole custody of his and Kyzer's children during their divorce proceedings. Hames described Jones as an intelligent and loving father who valued good education. She said he claimed his estranged wife was unfaithful to him, that she was doing a poor job homeschooling their children, and that she did not wish to participate in marriage counselling. Hames, who had more than a dozen sessions with Jones, said that the father-of-five told her he was a conservative and old-fashioned person who believed in spanking children. He said spanking and corporal punishment was medicine for their sick bodies, Hames told from the witness stand. Jones stands accused of beating his six-year-old son, Nahtahn, to death for breaking an electrical outlet. Next, he strangled his son Elias, seven, with his hands, in front of his eight-year-old daughter Merah, whom he also strangled, along with his two-year-old son Gabriel and one-year-old daughter Abigail. Thornsberry said her former daughter-in-law, Cynthia (pictured far left) was 'as nutty as a fruitcake, or a bed bug' Both sisters last words to their father were, I love you, according to Jones video-taped confession to police that was played in court earlier in the trial. In her testimony on Friday, the marriage therapist mentioned that one time, Jones request that she avoid wearing heels to their sessions. Also on Friday, the jury heard from Jones' grandmother, Roberta Thornsberry, who took the stand as a witness for the defense, reported The Post and Courier. Thornsberry talked at length about Jones' traumatic childhood, having been born to a woman she described as being 'as nutty as a fruitcake, or a bed bug,' reported WLXT. Thornsberry said her former daughter-in-law, Cynthia, would dress her grandson, then known as Timmy, in flannel shirts and jeans in 90-degree heat, would give him laxatives to cleanse his body and would at times withhold food from him, saying she did not want a 'fat baby.' Jones, pictured in police custody in September 2014, was arrested after driving for days with his children's bodies in his SUV She didnt act like a mother, Thornsberry said. Hed be screaming and crying. She wouldnt let me in the door... Timmy would be laying in the bed drenched in urine. By the time he was two-and-a-half, Jones' mother had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and committed to a mental health facility, and Thornsberry had taken custody of her grandson. At age 15, Jones was involved in a car crash that left him with traumatic brain injury. Jurors heard from a neurophysiologist who said that as a result of the injury, Jones had a 'misshapen' and 'broken' brain. A prosecutor countered by pointing out that despite the trauma, Jones was able to earn a degree in computer engineering and land a job at Intel. Jones' grandmother added that he was the first in the family to graduate from college and described him as being always smarter that his cousins and classmates. Thornsberry said that a few weeks before the killings, Jones arrived at her home drenched in sweat and she sensed that something was wrong, but she did not know what. The grandmother told the court she tried to convince Jones to leave his two youngest children in her care, but he refused, telling her, Grandma, I cant be without my babies. After killing the children at their home (pictured), authorities said Jones wrapped their bodies in plastic and put them in his SUV, driving aimlessly around the Southeast US for most of nine days Jones eventually left the children's bodies on a hilltop (pictured) in Camden, Alabama Thornsberry insisted that had she known then that her great-grandchildren were in danger, she would not have let her grandson leave with them. Jones was arrested after several days on the run with the bodies in the back of his SUV. When questioned by police on camera, Jones claimed he believed he had to kill his children because he thought they were conspiring against him. He said that he'd had thoughts about killing them before but never acted on it. With the bodies in his truck, he then drove around for several days, stopping at Dollar General stores and buying supplies, with the intention of burning them. Police found a list in his car which included a note which read: 'Melt bodies! Sand bones to dust or small pieces.' He tried to saw off Nahtahn's leg but could not bring himself to do it, so he put the bodies in garbage bags and left them on a hillside in Camden, Alabama. Before he was arrested, Jones took out $500 and planned to go to Las Vegas to gamble. A police computer bungle meant a driver who was charged over the death of a young man escaped justice for more than two decades. Matthew Pendle, 21, died in a car accident in 1997 when his friend, who was driving a Holden Commodore sedan, slammed into learner driver's truck in Canowindra, central west New South Wales. Despite being charged with negligent driving causing the death, Rui Filipe Carneiro de Carvalho Alves escaped conviction for 22 years because a NSW Police computer couldn't cope with his lengthy name, The Daily Telegraph reported. The Portuguese-Australian dual citizen was charged when he was 18 but after being excused from Cowra Local Court in March 1997 he did not receive arrest warrants. Matthew Pendle, 21, died in a car accident in 1997 when his friend, who was driving a Holden Commodore sedan, slammed into learner driver's truck in Canowindra (pictured), central west New South Wales Mr Pendle's mother Edna Read (pictured) told Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court she has spent the past two decades calling police officers, investigators and detectives to ask if there was any progress with the case Police have blamed the debacle on Alves' name which was too long to appear in the system, leaving officers unable to find him. In the years since the fatal accident, Alves has shortened his name to Rui Filip Alves, married and fathered two children. Mr Pendle's mother Edna Read told Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court she has spent the past two decades calling police officers, investigators and detectives to ask if there was any progress with the case. 'We have struggled each and every day for the past 22 years with no closure,' she said on Tuesday. The investigation was reviewed in 2018 and the 40-year-old was extradited from his home in Adelaide to Sydney in October. The court heard Alves made full admissions, gave authorities his address and told police he would plead guilty at the time of the fatal accident. Despite being charged with negligent driving causing the death, Rui Filipe Carneiro de Carvalho Alves escaped conviction for 22 years because a NSW Police computer couldn't cope with his lengthy name (stock image) Magistrate Erin Kennedy criticised the 'terrible delay' in achieving justice for Mr Pendle's family. She said Alves' choice to not follow the case up with the authorities likely had a devastating impact on Ms Read. Ms Read said: 'I will never see him grow old, get married, have children, fulfil his dreams the things my kind, caring and much-loved son would have achieved by now.' The two young men were driving to Brisbane from Adelaide with two other friends when the accident happened. The court heard Alves, who has not recorded a traffic offence since the crash, did not see two give way signs and misinterpreted a third before the smash. Alves, who pleaded guilty, was sentenced a three-year community corrections order. He was fined $2000 and was handed a one-year licence disqualification. The first trial against pharmaceutical companies and their role in the nation's opioid crisis began in Oklahoma on Tuesday with prosecutors blaming the corporate machines for creating 'the worst man-made public health crisis' in American history. The case is against Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiary Janssen Pharmaceuticals. Purdue Pharma, which makes OxyContin, previously settled with the state for $270million to avoid going to trial. In his opening arguments, Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter said the company embarked on 'a cynical, deceitful multimillion-dollar brainwashing campaign' to sell opioids as a "magic drug." 'It's time to hold them responsible for their actions,' he said, adding that it was the 'worst man-made public health crisis in American history.' Among the first arguments made was that for every adult in Oklahoma, there were 135 pills for every adult in Cleveland County, Oklahoma. State's attorney Brad Beckworth speaks during the opening statements during the opioid trial at the Cleveland County Courthouse in Norman, Oklahoma Judge Thad Balkman listens during opening arguments for the state of Oklahoma The state alleges drug makers extensively marketed highly addictive opioids for years in a way that overstated their effectiveness and underplayed the risk of addiction. The companies say the crisis is the fault of doctors who over-prescribe the medication. The court heard how Jansen & Jansen were in a race with Purdue Pharma to create drugs for the mass market. Brad Beckworth, arguing for the state, quoted the song 'Annie Get Your Gun', saying: 'Anything you can do, I can do better.' 'Johnson & Johnson was in a race with Purdue to do the same things.' Brad Beckworth, arguing for the state of Oklahoma 'Johnson & Johnson was in a race with Purdue to do the same things.' He went on to say that the companies had caused widespread 'pain and anguish' in the name of money. 'The pain, anguish and heartbreak is almost impossible to comprehend. 'How did this happen? At the end of the day, your honor, I have a short one word answer greed,' he said. Attorney Michael Burrage added for the courtroom: 'Johnson & Johnson helped create this public nuisance in Oklahoma, and here is what they did your honor. 'Both falsely and deceptively, through multiple methods and with others, promoted opioids for the treatment of chronic, non-malignant pain.' The first state witness was a doctors who explained how addiction is caused. Dr. Julio Rojas, an addiction expert, who described how addicts felt 'intense euphoria' when they used the drugs. 'I've heard people describe it as the warm hand of God touching them,' he said. 'We're now in a vicious state where you're trying to avoid feeling sick, trying to function. 'It's just a vicious cycle from here on out,' he added. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter speaks during opening arguments Tuesday, May 28 'I really want folks to understand what's going on here. All of us have these instincts. 'These folks are now bad, these behaviors are coming from a brain that is drastically changed. 'The mother that takes opioids while carrying. These are desperate acts,' he went on. He went on to describe it as a 'chronic illness' that requires 'chronic management' and concluded his testimony by telling the court: 'Addiction is a terrible disease. 'I've heard people describe it as the warm hand of God touching them Addiction expert Dr. Julio Rojas on how people feel when they take opioids 'If you've never gotten it, thank whoever you worship. It is a terrible road to walk down.' The companies maintain that they are part of a lawful and heavily regulated industry that is subject to strict federal oversight, and that doctors are the ones who prescribe the drugs. They also argued for the need of some drugs to manage pain. 'We have all suffered pain, some of us fortunately less than others. We have hit our finger with a hammer, we have all suffered a toothache, we have all broken bones, been burned, and we hate it. 'It is the memory of what it was like to be pain-free that gets us through those times. 'I want everyone to think of what it would be like if instead of going away that pain stayed with a person and never went away. 'Serious chronic pain is a soul-stealing, life-robbing thief. 'It leads to depression, it leads to suicide, people cant take care of their own basic function,' Janssen Pharmaceutical Cos. attorney Larry Ottaway said. Larry Ottaway, one of the attorneys for Johnson & Johnson, argues for the defense. He said it was the fault of doctors who over prescribe the drugs Bottles of Purdue Pharma L.P. OxyContin medication sit on a pharmacy shelf in a file photo. The company has faced allegations linking its drugs with the opioid crisis OPIOIDS IN AMERICA: BY THE NUMBERS Opioid prescriptions are going down across the US, but overdoses are not. Last year, the rate of opioid overdose deaths hit a record high, with around 200 Americans dying every day, according to new figures, published by the DEA in July. US Health Secretary Alex Azar insists the tide has turned this year. However, doctors warn the boom in prescriptions flooded the market with unused pills, some of which may have made it onto the black market. An in-depth analysis of 2016 US drug overdose data shows that America's overdose epidemic is spreading geographically and increasing across demographic groups. Drug overdoses killed 63,632 Americans in 2016. Nearly two-thirds of these deaths involved a prescription or illicit opioid. Overdose deaths increased in all categories of drugs examined for men and women, people ages 15 and older, all races and ethnicities, and across all levels of urbanization. The Orange County Health Agency found that there has been an 88 percent of drug overdose deaths between 2000 and 2015. Half of those deaths were due to accidental prescription drug overdoses. Seven out of every 10 overdose deaths between 2011 and 2015 involved opioids. Source: CDC, Orange County Health Agency Advertisement He added Janssen only represents only a small part of a vast supply and distribution chain for opioid products that is extensively regulated by various federal agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. He said the company's fentanyl patch Duragesic represented only a tiny fraction of the opioid market in Oklahoma and was not widely abused or sold on the street like other drugs. 'It has low rates of addiction and low rates of diversion. When you hear about pill mills, you don't hear about patches,' he said. 'When we talk about the balance between risk of addiction and unrelenting pain, that is the balance the government is speaking about,' he went on. 'How much proof of that will you hear in this case? None,' he finished. The trial could bring to light documents and testimony that show what the companies knew, when they knew it and how they responded. The judge in Ohio is overseeing the 1,500 consolidated opioid lawsuits filed by state, local and tribal governments. More than 2,000 have been filed across the country and many are against Purdue and its owners, the Sackler family. Cleveland County District Judge Thad Balkman, not a jury, will decide the case. He is allowing cameras in the courtroom, which is a rarity in Oklahoma. Purdue, which produces OxyContin, settled but has always maintained it is not to blame for the crisis. Lawyers have repeatedly denied allegations that it ignored health facts to market the drugs and make money. The family behind the company, the Sacklers, has been ex-communicated largely from the high-rolling society it is a part of. JP Morgan has cut ties with the family and The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, which has entire wings named after them, has said it will no longer accept money from the family. A speeding driver has been spared a 90 fine after a dove swooped in front of his car and obscured his face as the safety camera was going off in Germany. The Renault Twingo motorist in Viersen, near the border with the Netherlands, was travelling at 54 kph (33 mph) in a 30 kph (18 mph) zone. But the unidentified driver was spared a fine because police said they could only identify the car and not the driver. Under German law, speeding drivers have to be identified beyond doubt at the wheel of the car and the registered keeper is not automatically liable for the fine. The Renault Twingo motorist speeding in Viersen, near the border with the Netherlands WHY DID THE DOVE SAVE THE GERMAN DRIVER FROM A SPEEDING FINE? In German law the driver of a car must identified beyond doubt at the wheel of a speeding vehicle to be issued a penalty notice. The registered owner of the vehicle does not automatically receive the fine. In the UK, a driver can also claim he or she was not driving at the time a vehicle was caught on speeding camera. But if a magistrate does not believe the registered owner of a car's claims that they were not behind the wheel, they can be given a 1,000 fine and banned. Advertisement His speed triggered a speed camera which snapped a photograph usually used to charge offenders. But the driver managed to escape a fine of up to 105 (93) because his face was concealed by a white dove flying in front of his windscreen. Police in Viersen released a tongue-in-cheek statement after deciding not pursue the driver. It said 'it was no coincidence the Holy Spirit' intervened, adding 'we have understood the sign and leave the speeder in peace this time.' Police added further that they hope the driver understands the 'sign from above' and drives appropriately in the future. The 'feathered guardian angel with seemingly carefully spread wings' helped him escape repercussions because the car and not he himself could be identified. Viersen Police also joked that the dove could have been done for speeding. 'However, since we do not know where it has to be on time for [the upcoming Christian holy day of] Pentecost, we will allow mercy over justice here too.' The dangers of overcrowding at the summit of Everest have been laid bare by a doctor who described having to step around a dead woman to make it to the top and sitting down at the overrun peak to avoid falling thousands of feet to his death. Ed Dohring, from Arizona, fulfilled a lifelong ambition to summit the world's highest peak, at 29,029 feet, but that dream very nearly turned sour when he witnessed the congested path to the top filled with people who were 'not fit and not experienced' pushing and shoving to take selfies. Dohring, 62, who waited for hours in line, chest to chest with other climbers, said he was forced to sit down once he finally reached the peak because the flat part of the summit is only about the size of two Ping-Pong tables, but was packed with 15 or 20 people jostling to take photographs besides a several-thousand foot drop. Scroll down for video Ed Dohring, from Arizona, fulfilled a lifelong ambition to summit the world's highest peak, at 29,029 feet, but that dream very nearly turned sour when he witnessed the overrun path to the top filled with people who are 'not fit and not experienced' who were pushing and shoving to take selfies 'It was scary,' he told the New York Times. 'It was like a zoo,' said the doctor, who was on the same expedition as Christopher Kulish, who became the 11th person to die in the space of ten days on Monday. Kulish, an experienced climber, died following a clear ascent, of a reported heart attack. This year has been the deadliest for climbers on Mount Everest since 2012, when 10 climbers died. All 11 deaths in 2019 occurred during peak climbing season. Dohring described the witnessing a large group already at the summit, some of whom were 'very rude and unruly' and 'basically pushing so they could get better pictures of themselves.' It was then that the experienced climber decided 'this is not safe' and he sat down in order to take his celebratory photograph, knowing it would be less likely he'd be knocked off balance and plunge to his death. 'I was surprised at how many people were, you know, above 26,000 feet and were really obviously either not fit or not experienced and probably shouldn't have been there,' Dohring told CBS, adding that Kulish wasn't one of these inexperienced climbers. Dohring, 62, (pictured in his Nepal hotel room after the summit) who waited for hours in line, chest to chest with other climbers, said he was forced to sit down once he finally reached the peak because the flat part of the summit is only about the size of two Ping-Pong tables, but was packed with 15 or 20 people jostling to take photographs next to a several-thousand foot drop Massive line: In this picture taken on Sunday May 22, hundreds of mountain climbers line up to stand at the summit of Mount Everest. Many teams waited for hours to reach the summit, risking frostbites and altitude sickness 'I certainly wasn't prepared to pass dead bodies that were attached to the safety line. It was very difficult.' Officials have issued 367 permits to foreigners and another 14 to Nepalese mountaineers to climb Everest this year, according to a government liaison officer at base camp. The increase comes amid growing discontentment among the climbing community that fly-by-night adventure companies are offering cheaper packages to unsuitable climbers, thus clogging the summit and endangering other mountaineers. Guides who were operating on the Nepalese side of the mountain are now switching to the Tibetan side because they fear more will die. 'This is not going to improve. There's a lot of corruption in the Nepali government,' Lukas Furtenbach, one such guide, said. 'They take whatever they can get.' Nepal's government has denied that it is to blame and says instead that there have not been enough good-weather days this year . 'If you really want to limit the number of climbers, let's just end all expeditions on our holy mountain,' Danduraj Ghimire, the director general of Nepal's department of tourism said. The route up the mountain includes several large obstacles and a huge moving glacier near to base camp as shown in the map above Others have told how ruthless and 'obsessed' climbers become with getting to the top that they ignore people who may be struggling. 'I asked people for water and no one gave me any. People are really obsessed with the summit. They are ready to kill themselves for the summit,' 18-year-old Rizza Alee from Kashmir said. Footage captured by the young climber shows the extraordinary line of people waiting to summit the mountain, tip toeing their way to the top before climbing ladders to make it to the flattened summit. Another woman said that as she climbed to the top, she saw people around her collapsing but no one stopped to offer them oxygen for fear that they would die themselves. 'It was terrible,' she said. Colorado resident Christopher John Kulish, 62, became the 11th person to die descending the world's highest peak in the space of 10 days on Monday, after scaling the 29,035-foot peak from the normal Southeast Ridge route. Kulish, an experienced climber, died following a clear ascent, of a reported heart attack Fatima Deryan, an experienced Lebanese mountaineer, was near the summit when less experienced climbers started collapsing in front of her. While stopping to help, Deryan realised she was endangering herself and so had to continue moving. 'We are all on oxygen. You figure out that if you help, you are going to die,' she said. According to Sherpas and climbers, some of the deaths have been avoidable and caused by people getting held up in long lines on the last 1,000 feet of the climb. Many of the climbers who die pass away in what is known as the 'death zone', roughly 26,000 feet above sea level where there is simply not enough oxygen to sustain the human body. Everest 'Death Zone' The death zone is the name used by mountain climbers for high altitudes where there is not enough available oxygen for humans to breathe - this is usually above 8,000 metres - 26,247ft. Most of the 200+ climbers who have died on Mount Everest have died in the death zone - often on the descent - where experts say there is a risk of switching of because of the achievement of reaching the top. At the top of Mount Everest, the average person takes in about 30 percent of the oxygen in the air that they would take in at sea level. Therefore, a human used to breathing air at sea level could only be there for a few minutes before they became unconscious. Most climbers have to carry oxygen bottles to be able to reach the top. Those who suffer in the 'death zone' quickly become weak and lose the ability to think straight and struggle making decisions, especially under stress. Climbers have described some who died in the 'death zone' as sitting down for a rest and then never getting up. Advertisement At that point humans rely on oxygen canisters but climbers can still suffer from disorientation and quickly succumb to asphyxiation. Nepal currently has no strict guidelines on those who are allowed to climb Everest, with climbing permits representing a key source of revenue for the region. 'You have to qualify to do the Ironman,' Alan Arnette, a prominent Everest chronicler and climber told the NYT. 'But you don't have to qualify to climb the highest mountain in the world? What's wrong with this picture?' For Dohring, who left no stone unturned in his preparation for the risky adventure, his preparation appears far from that of many of the under prepared climbers. He slept in a tent that simulates high-altitude conditions and forked out $70,000 for the experience. Despite becoming frustrated with the behaviours of some others sharing the stunning mountain ridges, and at times questioning why he was even doing the climb, when he finally made it to the top he sat down and had his guide take a photo of him holding a sign that said: 'Hi Mom, Love You.' As he climbed down he passed two more dead bodies, neither of whom will ever be able to see their mothers again. This is the adorable moment a family of ducklings are guided through the corridors of a school by their mother duck. In the footage, the duck enters one of the glass entrances to Gary Allan High School in Burlington, Ontario, Canada, before waddling her way through the hallways with her ducklings in tow. The ducks have been making the journey through the school every year for the past decade after nesting in the courtyard. A family of ducklings led by their mother walk through the hallway of Gary Allen High School in Ontario, Canada Having made the two-minute walk through the interior of the school, the family then crossed the campus car park and a patch of grass, before settling in a creek on the other side. According to the Halton School District Board, the ducks' arrival is an annual occurrence. For the past decade or so, a pair of mallard ducks have found their way to the school, where they then nest in the interior courtyard. Once the ducklings hatch, the mother realises there is no way out of the courtyard for the youngsters that are unable to fly. The ducks have been making the journey through the school every year for the past decade after nesting in the courtyard The mother duck has even started tapping her beak on the glass door at the front of the school so someone can let them in So she heads to the doors of the school, taps her beak on the glass, and asks for a helping hand. Mrs Ruhl, a guidance counsellor at the school, witnessed the moment on May 15 with Sean Mercer, AACE assistant in the learning Commons. The guidance counsellor said: 'As time passes by when the duck is sitting on her nest, more and more staff and students spend an increasing amount of time at the windows, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the ducklings. After travelling through the school halls, the ducks reach their destination on the other side 'When the babies are ready and the mother is pacing at the door needing to make her way to the creek, we get so excited - we gather as many staff and students as possible and line the hallways so she can't make a wrong turn. 'Anyone who has ever been involved knows that your cheeks hurt at the end, because you are smiling the whole time. 'Your heart beats quicker than normal, and you feel a little overwhelmed being present during such a momentous journey for the family. 'It's a long walk for those little ducklings and you feel joy in helping them reach their destination.' Beto O'Rourke apologized to the staff of his Texas Senate campaign for being a 'giant a**hole' during the competitive, high-pressure 2018 race. 'I just feel very, very lucky, and I love you guys more than you'll ever know,' he told his staff on election night, after it was announced Republican Sen. Ted Cruz had won re-election. 'I know I was a giant a**hole to be around sometimes, and you all never allowed my shortcomings to get in the way of running the best campaign this state has ever seen.' Beto O'Rourke apologized to the staff of his Texas Senate campaign for being a 'giant a**hole' during the competitive, high-pressure 2018 contest He made his comments in 'Running with Beto,' a documentary premiering on HBO Tuesday night; it debuted at SXSW in March where O'Rourke attended with his wife Amy and daughter Molly The scene played out in the documentary 'Running with Beto,' which premieres on HBO on Tuesday evening. The Daily Beast obtained the footage. O'Rourke offered public praise to his campaign staff at his concession rally in El Paso, Texas, last year, saying he was 'so f****** proud' of them. 'I want to thank this amazing campaign of people,' he said. 'All people all the time, all the time, in every single part of Texas, all of you, showing the country how you do this. I'm so f****** proud of you guys.' Now the story of his failed Senate bid is coming to TV screens. 'Running with Beto' provides a fly-on-the-wall perspective of O'Rourke's Senate bid, which failed to topple Ted Cruz but made him a national Democratic star and led to his entry into the 2020 presidential contest. Film makers had unprecedented access to O'Rourke for the documentary - following him on an early morning run and in quieter moments with his wife Amy and three children. 'Running with Beto' made its national debut in March at the South by Southwest film festival in Austin. During the 90 minute film, O'Rourke is shown occasionally snapping at staffers while lamenting about missing time with his kids as he visits all 254 counties in Texas, according to CNN's review. The Daily Beast notes O'Rourke is 'charismatic yet controlling' in the documentary but 'its most revealing moments being ones where he is seen dressing down his clearly overworked staff for their perceived lack of preparedness.' O'Rourke came within three points of toppling Cruz and raised a record $80 million for his Senate bid. His campaign became famous for live streaming its events - a move O'Rourke tried replicate on the presidential campaign trail to lesser success. The Washington Post's review notes the documentary feels 'outdated and already archival' given O'Rourke's current standing in the 2020 Democratic field. His star faded rapidly on the campaign trial, as former Vice President Joe Biden entered the race and South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg caught fire. A series of early gaffs did not help. He was criticized for his announcement video, which featured his wife Amy sitting silently by his side. Beto O'Rourke with his wife Amy on election night 2018 Molly O'Rourke, Beto O'Rourke, Nancy Schafer, Greg Kwedar, David Modigliani, Rebecca Feferman, Rachel Ecklund, and Arianne Ribeiro attend the 'Running with Beto' premiere at SXSW in March And his early time on the campaign trail ended up becoming an apology tour. His 2020 announcement was timed with his debut on the cover of Vanity Fair. But it was a quote in the piece that garnered him the wrong kind of attention: 'I want to be in it. Man, I'm just born to be in it.' He apologized for quote - which was criticized for being condescending and reeking of male privilege. But he had to apologize again a short time later for telling a crowd in Iowa his wife is 'is raising, sometimes with my help,' their three kids. In-depth looks at his career - which saw him working as a part-time nanny in New York before returning to El Paso to work in his mom's furniture store, play in a band, and start a failed newspaper before he successfully ran for city council and the Congress. He got a reputation for 'failing up.' Beto O'Rourke is in the process of rebooting his presidential campaign O'Rourke sits in sixth place in RealClearPolitics' polling average on the primary battle. He's been pushing for a campaign reboot. He's done more national interviews, including appearing on ABC's 'The View' and taking part in a town hall on CNN in Iowa. And he made his first Sunday show appearance as a presidential candidate Sunday on CBS' 'Face the Nation.' He's also the subject of an extensive profile in The New Yorker this month. His staff points to his work ethic: as of mid-May, O'Rourke has driven more than 6,000 miles, through 14 states, held more than a 150 town-hall meetings, visited 32 college campuses, and answered more than 1,000 questions. O'Rourke said his shaky campaign start was on him. 'It has not gone as well as I would have wanted it to, in terms of my performance with the press,' he told The New Yorker. 'That's on me, a hundred per cent.' He also said he was talking about adding a speech writer to his campaign. 'I don't think I've ever read a speech,' he said. 'I've definitely never looked at a teleprompter.' He told the magazine he loves talking to people on the campaign trail but dislikes media interviews. 'The town halls, the issues, the travel, the endurance, I love all that,' O'Rourke said, adding what he didn't love was 'the thirty members of the press, in your face, at the first event, at the second event, at the third, and then day after day after day, and asking almost nothing about anything that we just experienced together in that room, in that coffee shop or that tavern or in that home, but things that may have been popping up on the news that day.' Advertisement Humiliated Theresa May faced European leaders who spent months hardballing her over Brexit today - as Nigel Farage revelled in his election triumph and told her the UK must leave by October 31 at the latest. She met a host of EU bigwigs including outgoing European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker in Brussels today for her last summit as Conservative leader. A grim-faced PM insisted she would keep fulfilling her 'obligations' despite being forced to announce her departure from Downing Street last week. But Mr Farage, who is also in Brussels today for separate discussions, told reporters the next Tory leader should say the UK is leaving in October come what may, and give the EU five months to come to the table with a counter-offer. Bolstered by the trouncing the Brexit Party inflicted on the Tories and Labour, securing an extraordinary 29 MEPs, he said: 'We give an ultimatum to Brussels rather than the other way round'. Arriving at her final summit as Tory leader Mrs May said the results were 'deeply disappointing' for her party and showed 'the importance of actually delivering on Brexit'. She said: 'I think the best way to do that is with a deal, but it will be for my successor and for Parliament to find a way forward to get a consensus and I hope those election results will focus Parliament on the need to deliver Brexit'. Theresa May was consoled by EU leaders including Jean-Claude Juncker (pictured) over her political demise today as she attended a summit in Brussels Eye to eye: Theresa May and European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker - who have previously clashed in Brussels summits - meet again in the Belgian capital tonight Mrs May appeared to see the funny side as she filled in EU counterparts including Mark Rutte (centre) and Xavier Bettel (left) about the political disaster that has befallen her in the UK over recent weeks There was even an embrace from Mr Rutte, who has been one of the European leaders most in the UK's corner during the negotiations Mrs May was hugged by a series of EU leaders as they seemingly voiced sympathy at her plight and the political difficulties that have laid her low European leaders are gathering in Brussels to choose the successor to Mr Juncker as President of the EU Commission - but they will also be keen to grill her behind the scenes on the political manoeuvring in the UK over Brexit Mrs May shared a joke with Luxembourg's prime minister Xavier Bettel and his Belgian counterpart Charles Michel Nigel Farage hosts his LBC radio show from Brussels today after humiliating the Tories and Labour at the European elections European leaders are gathering in Brussels to choose the successor to Mr Juncker as President of the EU Commission - but they will also be keen to grill her behind the scenes on the political manoeuvring in the UK over Brexit. Mr Juncker revealed his first meeting was with Mrs May and said he was 'crystal clear' that Brexit talks are over with Britain, adding: 'There will be no renegotiation'. The premier has also met EU council president Donald Tusk, who is thought to have delivered a similar tough message. Mr Farage was also in the Belgian capital in the wake of the stunning showing by his new Brexit Party, which topped the poll. Fresh from his re-election as an MEP, Mr Farage demanded that the next Conservative leader send an 'ultimatum' to Brussels that the UK will be leaving at the end of October deal or No Deal. France and Germany appeared on a collision course over who should hold one of the European Union's most coveted jobs, after weekend elections across the 28-nation bloc redrew Europe's political map. Arriving in Brussels for an EU summit, French President Emmanuel Macron virtually ruled out the prospect of German politician Manfred Weber replacing Jean-Claude Juncker as the new president of the bloc's executive arm, the European Commission. Mrs May said the European election results were 'deeply disappointing' for her party and showed 'the importance of actually delivering on Brexit' Britain's PM speaks to Jean-Claude Juncker at the Brussels summit less than a week after announcing her departure Mrs May is in Brussels for what will be her last summit as Tory leader after she quit last Friday Mrs May is embraced by Dutch premier Mark Rutte while Belgian leader Charles Michel (right) looks on in Brussels today Mr Farage was also in the Belgian capital in the wake of the stunning showing by his new Brexit Party, which topped the poll Outgoing President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker (pictured) said there will be no Brexit negotiation Mr Juncker's term at the commission, which proposes EU laws and makes sure they are enforced, is due to end on October 31 and leaders from across the continent are gathering in Brussels to debate who should succeed him. Mr Farage is in Brussels forming new alliances after the election of 29 new Brexit Party MEPs Mr Macron told reporters that his preferred choice for the post would be someone who has 'experience either in their country or in Europe that allows them to have credibility and savoir faire'. That appeared to be a swipe at Mr Weber, who has never served in government or a major institution such as the commission. Mr Weber, 46, has led the conservative European People's Party group - the biggest group in the EU assembly - since 2014. Mr Macron said Denmark's Margrethe Vestager, who is the commissioner responsible for competition matters, would be a suitable replacement, as would Michel Barnier, the Frenchman who has led the EU's Brexit negotiations. Getting Mr Barnier to head the commission would mark a fillip for Mr Macron following the strong showing of the French far-right in Sunday's elections. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, whose ruling coalition suffered losses at the polls, notably to the Greens, continues to back Mr Weber. 'I as a member of the EPP family will of course work to support Manfred Weber,' she said. Both the EPP and centre-left Socialists got battered in Sunday's elections as voters concerned about climate change, migration or security turned instead to the Greens, the pro-business ALDE group - of which Mr Macron's party will now be a member - or far-right parties. As a result, it is unclear what workable majority will emerge in the European Parliament when politicians gather in July. Theresa May arrives for a European Union (EU) summit at EU Commission Headquarters in Brussels - her last as Tory leader The PM's premiership has been broken by her inability to deliver Brexit - with candidates looking to succeed her all promising to fix it The PM bows her head as she heads towards the press pack on her first public engagement since quitting in tears outside No 10 last week Theresa May said it was now for the next Prime Minister to negotiate with the EU after she failed to deliver Brexit EU leaders are also expected to discuss other top jobs in the bloc during their dinner later, including who will replace Donald Tusk as European Council president. Blair faces backlash after insisting Remain votes DO add up to a majority in Euro elections Mr Blair told Sky News today: 'If you stack up the votes of the pro-remain parties it's a bigger percentage than the Brexit Party and UKIP'. Tony Blair has been blasted after trying to spin the result of the European elections into a Remainer win despite the Brexit Party running away with the result. The former Labour PM was criticised after trying to suggest that pro-EU parties won a bigger share of the vote after Nigel Farage's crushing victory. He said that the Remainer vote was bigger than that of both the Brexit Party and Ukip combined but failed to mention the votes won by the Conservative Party, which also backs Brexit. His comments provoked uproar from Brexiteers who accused him of having a poor grasp of the numbers involved in the election. Tory Brexiteer Andrew Bridgen said: 'For anyone including Tony Blair to think the election was anything but a victory for the Brexit Party is to be in complete denial of the facts. 'Even Tony Blair cannot spin his way out of this one.' The row is not the first time Mr Blair interpretation of facts has been questioned. In 2016 a report into the Iraq War by Sir John Chilcot strongly criticised the way Mr Blair led the country into the conflict in 2003 on the basis of 'flawed' intelligence. Advertisement Mr Tusk, who chairs the meetings of EU leaders, is also due to stand down from his job at the end of October. EU leaders are also expected to discuss who will replace Federica Mogherini as the bloc's next high representative - essentially the foreign minister - and who will succeed Mario Draghi as the next head of the European Central Bank. The leaders want to move quickly and hope to be able to name candidates to the top posts at their next summit on June 20-21. 'We want to find a solution as quickly as possible, because the European Parliament will meet at the beginning of July and it would of course be desirable if there were already a proposal at that point,' Mrs Merkel said earlier in Berlin. Early signs indicate that the process will take some time, and that a power struggle between the EU Council, which represents national governments, and the parliament is imminent. No clear candidate for Mr Juncker's post emerged from a meeting on Tuesday morning among party group leaders at the parliament. Instead, they insisted only that the person be chosen from among the candidates put forward by the parliamentary blocs. This puts them at odds with Mr Macron, who is insisting that EU leaders should decide on who will head the commission. Favourites for the top jobs are likely to be traded off to maximise influence over the world's biggest trading bloc. Nationality and gender are certain to influence the final choice. Downing Street would not be drawn on whether Mr Barnier would be a good candidate for the commission role, with the Prime Minister's official spokesman saying: 'I'm not getting into any of that.' Asked whether Mrs May backed the selection process, the spokesman added: 'The Prime Minister supports President Tusk's approach in seeking to create a package of candidates across the top jobs.' As Mrs May goes through the motions in Brussels, the Tory leadership battle has been becoming increasingly fractious. Kit Malthouse today became the tenth candidate to declare - as backbench chief Graham Brady and Brexit minister James Cleverly consider joining the fray. Launching his campaign, Mr Malthouse said his party needs a 'new face' and insisted he was the only leading Conservative 'to get off his backside' to try to solve Brexit. The housing minister said that most people in Britain did not believe a serving Cabinet minister such as Jeremy Hunt or Sajid Javid should get the job. European Council President Donald Tusk holds a news conference after the leaders' summit following the EU elections German Chancellor Angela Merkel shakes hands with French President Emmanuel Macron - but the pair are said to be on a collision course on who will replace Jean-CLaude Juncker However, the field in the Tory leadership contest is looking increasingly crowded. Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt is also a potential candidate, and if Sir Graham and Mr Cleverly decide to make a run the total number of candidates will hit 13. WHAT ARE THE KEY DATES FOR BREXIT NOW - AND CAN A NEW DEAL BE AGREED BY OCTOBER 31? There might be five months left until the next deadline for the UK to leave the EU, but in fact time is short to prepare the ground for it to happen. The new Tory leader is unlikely to be in place before the end of July. And then they will have just two months - including August, when much of the continent downs tools - to overhaul the Brexit deal Theresa May thrashed out with Brussels. Success in this process would still mean a frantic race against time to pass legislation through Parliament in October. Here are the key dates in the process: June 7 - Theresa May formally steps down June 10 - Tory leadership contest begins The battle to succeed Mrs May as Tory leader should formally kick off early in June. Nominations to stand will close in the week beginning June 10 before it is put to several rounds of votes. The final two candidates are then offered to the Tory membership at large for an election. It could take two to six weeks for MPs to whittle down the leadership contenders From 24 June - Top Two Tory candidates are offered to Tory members Once Tory MPs have whittled the leadership contenders down to the top two in a series of votes - the lucky two will be be put to a vote by Conservative Party members. July 26 - New Tory leader selected and becomes PM The Tory party hierarchy has said it wants a new Tory party leader to be selected by the Parliamentary recess - which is likely to be on July 26. The new leader will become Prime Minister and form a government. September 29-October 2 - Conservative Party conference The Tory gathering in Manchester this autumn will be the natural time for a new leader to take the stage and try to unite the fractured party. Assuming no way has been found to force a Withdrawal Agreement through Parliament by this point, they will need to spell out how they intend to approach the Brexit process. October 31 - Britain leaves the EU? The Brexit extension Mrs May thrashed out with the EU expires on October 31. Unless another postponement can be agreed, the UK is still scheduled to leave the bloc at this point. Advertisement The BBC has said it plans to stage a televised debate - although some of the campaign teams complained they have not been consulted before the announcement was made. The struggle is also threatening to turn nasty, as rival camps begin viciously briefing against each other. Mr Hunt was today facing jibes that he has already crashed his Tory leadership bid after admitting Brexit might have to be delayed again to avoid No Deal. The Foreign Secretary was hit with a backlash after delivering a stark warning that trying to push through Brexit in October in the face of opposition from Parliament would only cause a general election - and the 'annihilation' of the Conservatives. Instead he insisted the government should get the DUP, Eurosceptic backbenchers, and Scottish and Welsh politicians involved in negotiation a new agreement with Brussels. However, rival camps gloated that Mr Hunt had failed to show 'leadership' and would now never be chosen by Tory members even if he makes it to the run-off. 'They want someone who will get it done,' once source said. Sources close to Mr Hunt dismissed the criticism, saying he was just being straight with MPs about what could be achieved. 'He is clear you need to set out what you are going to achieve, but also how you get there and what you are not willing to do.' Meanwhile, Aid Secretary Rory Stewart was forced to deny slurs that he is running a 'suicide bomber' campaign designed to clear the way for Michael Gove - and said the term made him uncomfortable as he had served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Responding on Twitter, Mr Stewart said the 'suicide metaphor sits a bit awkwardly for someone who was in Iraq and Afghanistan'. And he added: 'I'm not running tactically - I am running on principle and because I believe we can unify this country and make it a much better place.' The BBC said it would be holding a TV debate between the candidates. The clash will take place in mid-June, moderated by the journalist Emily Maitlis. The final two candidates will also be invited to take part in a special edition of Question Time where they will be asked questions by an audience. Fran Unsworth, BBC news and current affairs director, said: 'Although the final say will fall to Conservative party members, it's firmly in the public interest for audiences to question and hear from the next potential prime minister.' However, while many contenders have voiced enthusiasm for the debates, it is unclear whether front runner Boris Johnson is keen. He is believed to be unconvinced as to which broadcaster should host and the format. Advertisement An Ohio mother and her son were sheltering in their top-floor apartment Monday night when a tornado ripped the entire roof off their building. Shannon Barnes, 47, was cowering in the bathtub in her top-floor apartment with her son Khalil Murray, 23, when the twister hit the Westbrooke Village complex in Trotwood near Dayton. I was sitting on the tub and Khalil was sitting on the floor and I started hearing the hail hit the window,' she told DailyMail.com. The mother and son were in the top-floor apartment (circled) of this Westbrooke Village apartment building when the tornado tore the roof off The tornado ripped the mother and son's apartment to pieces. The inside of their destroyed home is seen here Shannon Barnes' photo shows their apartment building which was ravaged by the storm. She said 'the building started shaking' before the twister tore off the roof Khalil Murray, 23, and his mother Shannon Barnes, 47, were sheltering in the bathroom when the tornado hit 'All of a sudden the building started shaking. Next thing you know, it took the roof off the building. 'You could actually feel the pressure of it,' Barnes said of the terrifying tornado. Murray threw himself over his mother in the bathtub to protect her from the impact and the falling debris. Murray described struggling to breath when the twister hit. Air pressure drops inside the walls of a tornado. 'After I saw the tornado take the roof off I was gassing for air,' he said. 'I was inside of it and I saw lightning inside of it and I couldn't breathe.' The young man said he saved his mother's life. 'I was so shocked that I was going to lose my mother. It could have taken me so I had to protect her,' he said. The pair were not seriously injured, though Murray said his 'back and arm hurts really badly'. Their home was completely devastated in the night. An aerial photo of Barnes and Murray's block shows the roofless building and the utter devastation caused by the storms Another aerial photo from Tuesday shows residents of the Westbrooke Village Apartments in Trotwood, Ohio, sorting through their apartments Debris is strewn about at Westbrooke Village Apartments in Trotwood, Ohio. The roofs were ripped off by the storm 'Ill have to find somewhere to move to because its damaged,' Barnes said of her third-floor apartment. 'Theres nothing to go back to. Barnes is now staying with her daughter nearby. The 'rapid-fire' tornadoes first touched down in the family's hometown of Trotwood, just outside Dayton, at about 11pm on Monday night. The city of Trotwood, which has a population of around 24,500, was hit particularly hard by what its mayor called 'catastrophic damage' Cars were also damaged in Monday night's severe weather in Trotwood, Ohio. The tornadoes that tore through the state first touched down there Rescuers dig through the debris of homes in Trotwood damaged in the powerful system of tornadoes that passed through the region The community of some 24,500 people was hit particularly hard by what Mayor Mary McDonald called 'catastrophic damage'. McDonald said five busloads of displaced residents have been taken to a church offering temporary shelter while the American Red Cross assesses needs. She says the community is getting a lot of help and support from federal, state, and local agencies, adding that 'we need that level of support'. A Trotwood street sign was bent in the tornado, which brought down trees and power lines and scattered debris across the city As many as 90 homes are have been damaged by the tornadoes that pounded through the region on Monday night Residents of the Westbrooke Village neighborhood emerged from shelter to inspect the damage in their area caused by the storms In wider Ohio, at least one person has died and at least 90 more were injured after the twisters ripped through the state, leaving more than five million people without power. As of Tuesday morning, authorities confirmed one death in Celina, about 75 miles northwest of Dayton. The one known fatality so far is 81-year-old Melvin Dale Hannah, according to Celina Mayor Jeffrey Hazel. The man died when a car crashed into his house while he was sleeping, Hazel said. An aerial image shows damaged apartments that had their roof blown off in the storm at the Westbrooke Village complex in Trotwood Emotional residents returning to the Westbrooke Village apartments found their homes and possessions in complete chaos The tornado tore through the Westbrooke Village Apartments on Autumn Hill Drive in the 45426 area of Trotwood in the night Dayton area hospitals have reported at least 64 injuries since a wave of severe storms swept through. Dayton Fire Chief Jeffrey Payne said that it was 'pretty miraculous' that there have been only minor injuries reported. Payne attributed the good news to people heeding early warnings. Residents say sirens started going off around 10.30pm Monday ahead of the storm. Weather experts said 51 tornadoes were reported across eight states overnight and residents of Idaho, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio, are still not in the clear as severe weather is forecast to continue through Tuesday and into Wednesday. At least half a dozen communities from eastern Indiana through central Ohio suffered damage, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). A man surveyed the damage to his home in Trotwood on Tuesday and gathered his belongings after the storm Trotwood residents cleaned up on Tuesday after tornadoes ripped through Ohio overnight, causing at least one fatality and widespread damage and power outages CNN chief White House correspondent Jim Acosta claims in his upcoming book that President Donald Trump's attacks on the 'fake news' media is just 'an act.' Acosta's book, The Enemy of the People: A Dangerous Time to Tell the Truth in America, is set for release on June 11, and will outline his job covering the White House under the Trump administration. In the book, obtained by The Guardian two weeks before its release, Acosta describes a conversation he had with Trump's then-White House Communications Director Hope Hicks after Trump called the CNN reporter 'very fake news' in a 2017 interaction. The reporter said in his account that Hicks called him and said Trump wanted him to know he was 'very professional today.' 'He said, 'Jim gets it,' Hicks is quoted as saying in the phone call. CNN chief White House correspondent Jim Acosta said in an upcoming book that President Donald Trump's attacks on the media and 'fake news' are 'an act' Acosta is releasing his book, 'The Enemy of the People,' on June 11 and it will outline 'the dangers he faces reporting on the current White House while fighting on the front lines in President Trump's war on truth' Acosta wrote that then-White House Communications Director Hope Hicks called him after a 2017 interaction where Trump called him 'fake news,' and said the president felt Acosta had acted 'very professional today' The call came after Trump attacked Acosta for being 'fake news' after he asked a question about Russian election interference at a February 2017 press conference. Acosta's book is described on the publisher's page as a 'first-hand account of the dangers he faces reporting on the current White House while fighting on the front lines in President Trump's war on truth.' During his campaign, Trump dubbed mainstream media outlets as writing and reporting 'fake news' and employing 'very fake news' journalists. He upped the attacks during his presidency when he started calling media personnel the 'enemy of the people.' Three unnamed sources said that calling the press the 'enemy of the people' originated with Former White House Chief Strategist Steve Bannon, according to Acosta's book. Bannon left the White House in August 18, 2017 and rejoined far-right media outlet Breitbart as executive chairman, he stepped down from the position in early 2018. Acosta has often been singled out by the president as one of the perpetrators of spreading 'fake news,' and the CNN journalist has gone viral for some of his confrontations with Trump and his pundits. Specifically, he was the center of a news cycle in November 2018 when during a post-midterm election new conference with Trump he refused to give up the microphone to a young female White House intern who was trying to take it away to give it to another reporter. According to Acosta, three different sources attributed Trump calling the people the 'enemy of the people,' to former White House Chief Strategist Steve Bannon Trump is highly critical of the media, and since his 2016 campaign has referred to mainstream media outlets like CNN, The New York Times and The Washington Post as 'very fake news' The intern only tried to received the microphone after Trump said, 'That's enough,' multiple times, and made it clear he was not going to answer Acosta's inquiry. Acosta was asking about Trump's claims of Central American migrant 'caravans.' During the confrontation, Trump called Acosta 'a rude, terrible person.' The move was viewed negatively, but even more controversial was an edited video of the interaction that went viral. The altered video sped up the debate over the microphone to make it appear more dramatic and like Acosta was violently chopping at the intern's arm as she reached for the microphone. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders shared that altered video to her Twitter account. The interaction led the Trump administration to revoke Acosta's hard press pass, which gives reporters daily access to the White House. He wrote that the day he lost his hard pass, 'everything in my life began to spiral out of control,' and continued to reject the White House's assertions that he effectively assaulted the intern. Acosta admitted in his book to sometimes 'showboating' or 'grandstanding,' and even admitted to his bias against the president. 'Neutrality for the sake of neutrality doesn't really serve us in the age of Trump,' Acosta wrote, according to The Guardian, adding he 'opts for the bait' when asking the president questions, 'which bothers some people.' There are several other reporters who have become known for their contentious interactions with Trump and his administration, including CNN White House correspondent April Ryan. Sanders has not held a press briefing for months. Senior Taliban officials including the group's top political advisor met with Afghan political figures in Moscow on Tuesday, saying they were committed to peace in Afghanistan - even as US-led talks appear to have stalled. In a message the Taliban have not altered since talks with the US started last autumn, Taliban co-founder and political leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said the insurgents want an end to 18 years of conflict - but would only sign a deal after foreign forces quit Afghanistan. The Taliban are 'really committed to peace, but think the obstacle for peace should be removed first', Baradar said. His comments came in a rare televised appearance at the start of the two-day meeting, which marks 100 years of diplomatic ties between Russia and Afghanistan. Taliban reps led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar (C), with Head of Political Office of the Taliban Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanakzai (2nd R) attend Afghan talks with Afghan politicians within a conference marking a century of diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and Russia Leaders from the Taliban, led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar (fourth from the left) were in Moscow for the talks Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, left, and former Afghan President Hamid Karzai greet each other prior to their meeting Today's warm reception for the Taliban was a far cry from the vicious nine-year war between the Soviet Union and Afghanistan from 1979. The conflict was an attempt by Moscow to shore up the new pro-Soviet regime in Kabul. Nearly 100,000 troops occupied cities and roads in the country and a backlash in the form of the Mujahideen was stomped out. Representatives of Taliban led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar (C), accompanied by Head of Political Office of the Taliban Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanakzai (R) arrive for Afghan talks with Afghan politicians Former warlord Atta Muhammad Noor said the previous Moscow meeting had yielded 'quite positive results' Today's warm reception for the Taliban was a far cry from the vicious nine-year war between the Soviet Union and Afghanistan from 1979 Over the course of the 1980s, it is believed around 1million people were killed, including 18,000 Afghan soldiers, 14,500 Soviets troops and 90,000 Mujahideen. The Soviets left in 1989, leaving Afghanistan in the grips of a civil war, which paved the way for the Taliban's takeover in 1996. The combination of Russia's annexing of Crimea in 2014 and Nato plans to withdraw from Afghanistan by the end of this year, has left some in the country fearing for the future. What happened in the Soviet-Afghan War, from a firsthand account? On February 15, 1989, crowds of stunned onlookers watched the last Soviet troops leave Afghanistan over the Friendship Bridge - defeated after a decade of war. Abdul Qayum, who was a border guard in Hairatan, where the bridge crosses the Amu Darya river into what is now Uzbekistan, said: 'The Russians were waving and smiling at the people. It seemed they were tired of fighting.' With 1.5million dead on the Afghan side and nearly 15,000 from the Soviets, the Red Army had retreated, defeated by Afghan mujahideen resistance. Red Army tanks cross the Friendship Bridge on the river border between Afghanistan and Soviet Uzbekistan on February 15, 1989, the last day of the Soviet retreat after 10 years of occupation The Soviets' December 27, 1979 invasion - decided in secret by a select caucus of Politburo members - had been presented in official propaganda as coming to the aid of 'a fraternal people' confronted by an Islamic rebellion. The two countries were linked by a friendship and cooperation treaty signed when Afghanistan became communist a year earlier, after a coup. Qayum, now aged 60, recalled the confusion as Red Army soldiers rolled into Afghanistan. 'An officer from Uzbekistan told me 'guests were coming' and others on our side of the border were saying it was a Soviet troop parade and they would be returning,' he said. But the army did not turn back. 'There were many, many soldiers. It was impossible to count them. Those crossing into Hairatan immediately marched onwards toward Kabul. They kept crossing for days and nights,' he said. Soviet soldiers welcomed in Uzbekistan on February 15, 1989 after the Red Army retreat from Afghanistan Moscow had thought it would be an easy mission. But it was never able to cut the mountain supply lines of the unrelenting resistance, armed by the Americans, financed by the Saudis and with logistical support from Pakistan. On April 14, 1988, the Soviet Union committed in accords signed in Geneva to withdrawing its entire contingent of more than 100,000 men by February 15, 1989. The withdrawal unfolded in two phases, each allowing the evacuation of around 50,000 men. The first lasted from May 15 to August 15, 1988. The second was meant to start on November 15 but was pushed back as the mujahideen stepped up military pressure. It began, discreetly, in early December. The conditions were difficult. The columns of vehicles heading to the border from Kabul had to confront the Salang Pass, with its altitudes of 11,800 feet, in the country's hardest winter for 16 years. There was also no let up from the resistance fighters, and Soviet soldiers were dying up until the very end. Lieutenant General Boris Gromov, commander of the Soviet forces in Afghanistan, addresses his troops in Termez, Uzbekistan, on February 15, 1989 after the Red Army withdrawal is completed In the evening of February 15, when it was all over, the highest organs of the Communist authorities hailed the soldiers 'who have returned home after having accomplished their patriotic and internationalist duty honestly and with courage.' 'At the request of the legitimate government of Afghanistan, you protected its people, women, children, the elderly, towns and villages, you protected the national independence and sovereignty of a friendly country,' they said. But the tone was different in the Moscow press. 'To the joy of the return of the soldiers are mixed the pain of losses and bitter reflections,' wrote the Communist party's Pravda newspaper. President Mikhail Gorbachev, who ordered the Soviet retreat, would recall in 2003: 'The central committee was inundated with letters demanding an end to the war. They were written by mothers, wives and sisters of the soldiers...' 'Officers were incapable of explaining to their subordinates why they were fighting, what we were doing over there and what we wanted to achieve,' said Gorbachev, who said later the invasion had been a serious 'political mistake'. In Kabul 'no publicity or special ceremony marked the departure of the last Soviet soldier, who left to the total indifference of officials as well as the local population,' wrote an AFP special envoy in a report on February 15, 1989. In Hairatan, where at 11:30am the last Soviet soldier crossed the Friendship Bridge, local merchant Mohammad Salih said their withdrawal was celebrated. "But when we saw the civil war and heavy fighting that followed... we thought it would have been better for Afghanistan had they stayed," the 76-year-old told AFP. Tanks, cannons and anti-air batteries had been deployed at strategic points overlooking the airport for the occasion, the authorities fearing a mujahideen attack. Three years later, president Mohammed Najibullah resigned, signalling the end of communism in Afghanistan. His government was replaced by one made up of the various mujahideen factions that had driven out the Soviets. They quickly turned on each other. Ruined, Afghanistan was more fractured than ever. A new, vicious civil war would soon break out before the Islamist Taliban seized power in 1996. Advertisement It was a subject Baradar touched on in his speech today, adding: 'The obstacle is the occupation of Afghanistan, and that should end.' Baradar - who helped Mullah Omar found the Taliban - was appointed its political chief in January following his release from a Pakistan prison. Tuesday's Moscow meeting once again cut out senior members of President Ashraf Ghani's government, which the Taliban consider a US-backed puppet regime, though the head of the Kabul administration's high peace council had been slated to attend. The conflict was an attempt by Moscow to shore up the new pro-Soviet regime in Kabul, Afghanistan's capital Other Afghan politicians - including former president Hamid Karzai and candidates challenging Ghani in a presidential election slated for September - were also present. The talks mark the second time Taliban leaders have met with Afghan figures in Russia, following a February summit that saw the former foes praying together and chatting over meals. Former warlord Atta Muhammad Noor said the previous Moscow meeting had yielded 'quite positive results'. Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban group's top political leader, left, and Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, the Taliban's chief negotiator speak to the media 'We are for having good relations with our brothers, with the Taliban,' Noor said. 'Let's step back a little, embrace each other and create conditions for the start of peace'. Moscow appears to be gaining influence in the ongoing process, with the US announcing last month that Washington had reached a consensus with China and Russia on the key formula for a peace deal it is negotiating in Afghanistan. Taliban representative Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai arrives for the meeting organised under the presidency of Former President of Afghanistan Hamid Karzai But a recent sixth round of talks between US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and the Taliban ended in Doha this month with no tangible progress cited by the negotiating teams. While the Taliban insist foreign forces must leave Afghanistan before it can agree to peace, the US has refused to agree to a withdrawal until the Taliban put in place security guarantees, a ceasefire, and other commitments including an 'intra-Afghan' dialogue with the Kabul government and other Afghan representatives. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who opened Tuesday's meeting, said Russia and Afghanistan have 'a shared aim - fighting terrorism' and reiterated that Moscow supports a complete withdrawal of foreign forces. Advertisement The nation will bask in temperatures of up to 86F (30C) this weekend as the overnight cloud and rain spreads eastwards. As a wet and windy Band Holiday weekend comes to an end, showers across the country are set to die out by this evening and bring in a balmy start to June. The sizzling weather, which follows a weekend of frequent showers, will see throngs of holiday makers racing to the coast as the temperatures gear up to surpass those in Barcelona and Ibiza which will see highs of 75F (24C) on Sunday. However as a jet stream heads towards the south of the country, the UK will feel a chill in the air tonight and there is likely to be potential frost before the warmer climate arrives. Wednesday will see a dry and bright start to the day as temperatures continue to rise and bring in glorious sunshine and humid weather by Saturday. Met Office spokesman Grahame Madge said there remains uncertainty on the range of temperatures as forecasters wait for the warm air to arrive. A woman relaxes on the beach in Brighton as the weather begins to change and welcome in the start to a pleasant summer Deck chairs are put out on the beach in Brighton as the UK prepares for bouts of showers before bringing in warmer temperatures People walk along a pebbled Brighton Beach in East Sussex and enjoy the start of the summer weather earlier this month Sun-dwellers absorb the sea air on Brighton Beach, East Sussex, and soak in the sun as the UK gears up to enjoy a warmer climate A cyclist enjoys a ride through the buttercups on a warm May morning as the UK prepares for more sunshine and rising temperatures He said: 'The indication is that we could see highs of 82F (28C), isolated highs of around 28C, on Saturday, and the most likely candidate places for those would be places like Norwich, north London, those sorts of areas away from the coast, but in the south-east corner of the UK. 'And on Sunday we could see highs of 29C (84F), even possibly 30C. 'So Sunday looks very much as though it's going to be a warmer day than Saturday. So we have got that warmth coming through. 'Once this warm front, and the air behind it, starts to pull across the UK then we will see temperatures starting to rise.' The Met Office spokesman said conditions have been quite cool and there is a possibility of sleet and even snow showers in the Scottish highlands. The country will see scattered showers and feel a chill in the air as a jet stream heads towards the south of the country. However the temperatures will then begin to heat up Spectators put on their waterproof clothing and try to stay dry as they attend the Houghton Horse trials in Norfolk this Bank Holiday weekend A rainbow sweeps across the sky over Pier Hill in Southend-on-Sea last as the weather continues to change in the UK Following a wet start to the week, parts of England could see a frost in isolated areas on Tuesday night and the next few days. There will be a 'fundamental change' once the warm front, known as tropical maritime air, starts to draw the warmer air across the UK, Mr Madge said. 'Tonight, for example, some parts of England could see a frost before this warm front starts to work its way across. 'We're expecting its arrival overnight so probably getting into the western parts of Britain by just after midnight. 'And then it will work its way across, reaching all parts of the UK by later in the week and the weekend,' he said. According to the Met Office website, Barcelona and Ibiza will see highs of 24C (75F) on Sunday, while St Tropez is expected to reach 28C. Bookmaker Coral makes this June 2-1 to be the hottest since records began. A 11-year-old girl is being hailed a hero after pulling her little brother away from a man who police have charged with abduction Julianne and Hayden Moore, 6, were playing outside their home in the Old Brooklyn neighborhood of Cleveland on Thursday evening when they were approached by a man. Julianne told Fox 8 Cleveland that the man started to talk them but they couldn't understand what he was saying. Julianne, 11, and Hayden Moore, 6, (pictured above) were playing outside their home in the Old Brooklyn neighborhood of Cleveland on Thursday evening when they were approached by a man who 'attempted to abduct Hayden' The man briefly left but quickly returned, grabbed Hayden by the hand and tried to 'pull him away,' Julianne said. The plucky 11-year-old said her parents have always told her to look out for her younger brother and she knew what was happening was serious. 'This was not like any handshake or anything,' Julianne said. 'I just grabbed my brother and went into the backyard because there was no time to panic. You just have to go with it.' Pedro Luyando, 33, of Cleveland (pictured above) has been charged with abduction Fox 8 Cleveland showed CCTV footage of Luyando's arrest on Mayview Avenue, based on Julianne's description She ran, screaming and dragging Hayden by the arm and alerted their father, Joshua Moore, telling him that a man had tried to take Hayden. Moore ran to the front yard and said he spotted the man before saying, 'Excuse me, did you touch my child?' The man threw out his arms, according to Moore who called the police. Pedro Luyando, 33, of Cleveland, was apprehended shortly afterward, walking down Mayview Avenue, based on Julianne's description. Julianne said she is shaken by what happened but that she knows she 'saved her brother' CCTV footage shows police arresting him, as shown by Fox 8 Cleveland. Luyando was charged with abduction. Julianne said she is shaken by what happened but that she knows she 'saved her brother.' 'He would not be here right now,' she added. The chaotic horror of Jayme Closs's abduction and her parents' murders can be heard for the first time today in chilling audio of the 911 call made from her mother's cellphone. The call, obtained by DailyMail.com, was made shortly before 1am on Monday October 15, 2018 from inside the Closs family home in Barron, Wisconsin. Police arrived just four minutes later to find both James and Denise Closs shot dead in a bloody crime scene from which their teenage daughter had been dragged by killer turned abductor Jake Patterson. Little can be made out beyond the dispatcher's fervent attempts to make contact with the caller. At one point there is a muffled scream and sounds of movement and shouting before the call abruptly drops. Patterson was described as 'the embodiment of evil,' on Friday by the judge who sentenced him to life without parole for the brutal double homicide and Jayme's abduction. He held the terrified teenager hostage for three months in his rural cabin. Jake Patterson, 21, was sentenced to life in prison Friday after pleading guilty in March to two counts of intentional homicide and one of kidnapping Patterson abducted Jayme Closs, 13, for 88 days in a case that sparked a nationwide hunt and mystified authorities until she managed to make her brave escape from the remote cabin where she had been held captive for three months Patterson admitted to abducting Jayme on October 15 after killing her parents, James and Denise Closs (pictured above), at the family's home near the small town of Barron. New audio reveals a 911 call was made from inside the home just four minutes before police arrived This is the shotgun Jake Patterson used to kill Jayme Closs' parents and to shoot in the door to their home Pictures entered in evidence by the prosecution at Friday's hearing can also be seen here for the first time. The cramped space beneath Patterson's bed where Jayme spent hours often without food or water is shown. A pillowcase in a leopard cover and thin sleeping bag were the only scant comforts Patterson afforded his captive. The shotgun he used to blast his way into the Closs family home and dispatch first Jim then Denise can be seen along with the front door, shot out by Patterson as he embarked on his bloody rampage. Patterson told detectives he had chosen the particular shotgun - stolen from his father - because it was so ubiquitous he thought the shells, found and pictured, would be all but untraceable. The bathroom in which Jayme and her mother tried to barricade themselves, hiding in the bath behind the shower curtain is also pictured. Patterson kicked in the door, ripped down the curtain and found Denise holding her daughter in a bear hug. The floor appears bloodied. Patterson told cops he had almost slipped on the slick of blood left behind when he shot Denise in the head at such close range investigators found the back of her skull in the bath next to her. Patterson broke down this bathroom door where Jayme and her mother Denise were cowering in the bathtub on October 15. He shot Denise dead before kidnapping Jayme. This photo of the bloody crime scene was shown to the court on Friday DailyMail.com obtained this photo of the front door of the home of Jim and Denise Closs, which was shot in by Patterson During Patterson's sentencing hearing, prosecutors revealed horrific details of the night he murdered Jayme's parents and abducted the teenager. This photo of the tiny space where Jayme was held captive under Patterson's bed was shown to the court on Friday These are three shotgun bullets used by Patterson during the murders of Jim and Denise Closs and the abduction of their daughter A glimpse into Patterson's warped mindset is offered in the answers he wrote to a local reporter who sent questions to Patterson while he awaited trial. In a bizarre admission Patterson wrote that his reason for confessing when he was caught - something he claimed he had expected to happen far sooner - was to protect Jayme from having to undergo a police interview. In barely legible scrawl he wrote: 'I tried to give in everythingso they didn't have to interview Jayme. They did anyways and hurt her more for no reason.' He claimed that despite cops' assertion that his crime was meticulously planned he acted 'mostly on impulse' and admitted, 'I can't believe I did this.' He said, 'I don't think like a serial killer' and that looking back he was 'really stupid.' According to Patterson, 'No one will believe or can even imagine how sorry I am for hurting Jayme this much. Can't express it.' But Jayme's relatives remain unconvinced by any expression of remorse on Patterson's part. Jayme's powerful victim impact statement was read in court but the impact of Patterson's crimes on the wider family can also now be heard. Nicole Wesley-Allard, who is married to one of Jayme's cousins, recalled, 'At roughly 5.30am on October 15, 2018, I woke up to my mother-in-law calling my husband. She told my husband that his aunt and uncle had been killed and his 13-year-old cousin was missing. His screams are something that sticks with me today.' She described Patterson's crimes as 'heinous,' and ones that have left them all living in fear in their own homes. She noted that Patterson had shown 'zero remorse' and added that at his previous court appearance, 'when he went to leave the courtroom, he chose to say 'Bye Jayme' instead of telling his family that he loved them.' Lynn Closs, one of Jayme's aunts told how the family 'freezes' whenever they hear a knock on their door after dark. She spoke of her wish for Patterson to be forgotten, 'no letters, no phone calls and no emails' and to languish in jail for the rest of his life. Meanwhile she said, 'Our families will be remembered for the way we came together and showed how LOVE CONQUERS HATES (sic). Good Beats Evil!' In this written response to a local reporter, Jake Patterson writes, 'I don't think like a serial killer' and that looking back he was 'really stupid' Patterson spoke briefly before he was sentenced to life in prison, saying he would do 'absolutely anything to take back what I did' The teenager's attorney read a victim impact statement on her behalf as her kidnapper, 21-year-old Jake Patterson, was sentenced to life in prison without parole on Friday in Barron County in northern Wisconsin. Patterson, who was described by the judge during his sentencing as 'the embodiment of evil, had pleaded guilty to abducting Jayme after brutally killing her parents, James and Denise Closs, at the family's home near the small town of Barron, about 90 miles northeast of Minneapolis, on October 15 last year. He admitted concocting a plan to kidnap the 13-year-old girl, who he had never met, after seeing her get off a school bus near her home. Patterson held her captive in his rural cabin for three months and forced her to stay under his bed for hours without food or water. 'Jake Patterson took a lot of things that I love away from me. It makes me the most sad that he took away my mom and my dad,' Jayme said, through her attorney, in her first public statement since she escaped. Jayme, who did not appear in court, described the night her parents were killed as a 'horrifying memory' that has left her too scared to go out in public and unable to visit her family home. 'There are some things that Jake Patterson can never take from me. He can't take my freedom. He thought he could own me and he was wrong. I'm smarter. I watched his routine and I took back my freedom. I will always have my freedom and he will not,' she said. 'Jake Patterson can never take away my courage. He thought he could control me and he couldn't. I feel like what he did is what a coward would do. I was brave and he was not. 'He can't ever change me or take away who I am. He can't stop me from being happy and moving forward with my life. 'I will go on to do great things in my life and he will not. Jake Patterson will never have any power over me. 'He stole my parents from me. He stole almost everything I loved from me. For 88 days he tried to steal me and he didn't care who he hurt or who he killed to do that. There are some things that Jake Patterson can never take from me. He can't take my freedom. He thought he could own me and he was wrong. I'm smarter. I watched his routine and I took back my freedom. I will always have my freedom and he will not Jayme Closs Jayme had urged the judge to lock Patterson up for life. Patterson was sentenced to life in prison without parole on both murder counts and 40 years for kidnapping Jayme. Barron County Circuit Court Judge James Babler said Patterson's crime was 'the most heinous and dangerous' he had seen and described him as the 'embodiment of evil'. The judge branded Patterson a danger to society due to his fantasies of 'taking multiple girls, and killing multiple families'. He summarized some of Patterson's writings, saying that he fantasized 'about keeping a young girl, torturing her and controlling her'. Babler said Patterson had written that 'fear of hell' initially stopped him, but he stopped believing in God and began looking for an opportunity. Patterson wrote that he drove around looking for a girl to take but soon realize that wouldn't work, then conceived of doing it in a home invasion. Patterson spoke briefly ahead of his sentencing, saying he would do 'absolutely anything to take back what I did'. 'I would die... absolutely anything to bring them back. I don't care about me. I'm just so sorry.' He allegedly created a space for Closs under his bed, and when he'd leave the house, he'd put heavy weights around the bed so she couldn't move or escape, according to the complaint During the hearing, prosecutors revealed horrific details of the night he murdered Jayme's parents and abducted the teenager. Photos of the gun he used to kill Denise and James Closs, the bloody crime scene and the tiny space where Jayme was held captive under Patterson's bed were shown to the court. Patterson repeatedly shook his head in court when the prosecutor branded him a killer and said he showed no remorse for the killings or abduction. The case sparked a nationwide hunt for Jayme in October and mystified authorities until she managed to make her brave escape from the remote cabin where she had been held captive for three months. There is no doubt in my mind that you are one of the most dangerous men to ever walk on this planet. You are the embodiment of evil Judge James Babler Jayme was found near Patterson's cabin in the isolated town of Gordon, some 60 miles from her home, by a woman walking her dog. She had begged the woman for help, telling her that she had escaped from Patterson's home when he left her alone. Neighbors called 911 and Patterson was arrested within minutes. Despite Patterson admitting his guilt, his motivations for the horror ordeal still remain a mystery. The crime traumatized the close-knit community and his sentencing is said to be a milestone in its recovery. Multiple members of Jayme's family gave emotional victim impact statements to the court during Patterson's sentencing. Her aunt Jennifer Smith, who now takes care of the teen, said Jayme no longer has a 13-year-old's life and said their family lives in fear every day. Patterson's court appearance on Friday was his final chance to explain why he shot the girl's parents at close range and then held the eighth grader captive. How kidnapper abducted Jayme after spotting her on school bus and murdered her parents in cold blood JAYME CLOSS' VICTIM IMPACT STATEMENT Last October, Jake Patterson took a lot of things that I love away from me. It makes me the most sad that he took away my mom and my dad. I love them very much and they love me very much. They did all they could to make me happy and protect me. He took them away from me forever. I felt safe in my home and I loved my room and all of my belongings. He took all of that too. I don't want to even see my home or my stuff because of the memory of that night. My parents and my home are the most important things in my life. He took them away from my in a way that will always leave me with a horrifying memory. I have to have an alarm in the house now just so I can sleep. I used to love to go out with my friends. I loved to go to school. I loved to do dance. He took all of those things away from me too. It's too hard for me to go out in public. I get scared and I get anxious. These are ordinary things that anyone like me should be able to do, but I can't because he took them away from me. There are some things that Jake Patterson can never take from me. He can't take my freedom. He thought he could own me and he was wrong. I'm smarter. I watched his routine and I took back my freedom. I will always have my freedom and he will not. Jake Patterson can never take away my courage. He thought he could control me and he couldn't. I feel like what he did is what a coward would do. I was brave and he was not. He can never take away my spirit. He thought he could make me like him, but he was wrong. He can't ever change me or take away who I am. He can't stop me from being happy and moving forward with my life. I will go on to do great things in my life and he will not. Jake Patterson will never have any power over me. I feel like I have some power over him because I get to tell the judge what I think should happen to him. He stole my parents from me. He stole almost everything I loved from me. For 88 days he tried to steal me and he didn't care who he hurt or who he killed to do that. He should stay locked up forever. Advertisement Patterson, who was kicked out of the U.S. Marines after five weeks, carefully planned out the crime and told police that he decided Jayme 'was the girl he was going to take' after he saw her getting on a school bus near her home. He had previously made two aborted trips to the Closs family home. He broke off one attempt because too many cars were in the driveway and called off another because the house was too active. Patterson finally carried out his planned attack when he pulled into the Closs driveway in the early hours of October 15 dressed in black and wearing a face mask, hat and gloves. In her own account of that terrifying night, Jayme told police that her barking dog woke her and she went to alert her parents as Patterson's car came up the driveway. While her father went to the front door, Jayme said she hid in the bathroom clutching her mother with the shower curtain pulled shut. Shining a flashlight through the window of the front door, Jayme's father James had asked to see Patterson's badge after assuming that he was law enforcement. Patterson said he shot James through the window and then fired at the doorknob to blast his way in. He stepped over James' lifeless body before searching for Jayme and her mother. Patterson broke down the bathroom door as Jayme's mother was calling 911 while wrapping the teenager in a 'bear hug'. He told her to hang up the phone and ordered her to tape her daughter's mouth shut. He told detectives that Denise struggled with the tape so he wrapped it himself around Jayme's mouth and head. He then taped her hands behind her back and taped her ankles together before pulling her out of the bathtub and shooting her mother in the head. The criminal complaint against Patterson noted that James had suffered 'significant trauma to his face and head', while the back of his wife's head and skull plate were found lying next to her body in the bathtub. Patterson dragged Jayme outside, nearly slipping in pooled blood on the floor, and threw her in the truck of his car. As he was driving off, Patterson recalled pausing to yield to three squad cars speeding toward the house with flashing lights. Asked during a police interview what he would have done if he was stopped the officers, Patterson said he probably would have shot at them with the shotgun. Patterson took Jayme to his remote cabin in rural Wisconsin where he held 13-year-old Jayme Closs prisoner for nearly three months Following his arrest, photos obtained by DailyMail.com showed the squalid basement 'cell' where police believe Jayme was held for 88 days Other images of Patterson's home showed a shabby living area with a couch, refrigerator, an old television set and an unfinished ceiling A prisoner for 88 days: Jayme was forced to hide under her kidnapper's bed for hours without food or water Patterson took Jayme to his remote cabin where he removed the tape from her mouth, hands and ankles and told her to go into the bathroom and remove all her clothes. He told investigators that Jayme was 'scared and crying' and that she had urinated on herself. He gave Jayme a pair of his sister's pajamas and then threw her clothes into a fireplace in the cabin's basement while making a comment about 'not having evidence'. Patterson was arrested soon after Jayme managed to escape his home on January 10. He was charged with kidnapping and two counts of first-degree murder Whenever Patterson had friends or relatives over, he made it clear to Jayme that nobody was to know she was there or 'bad things would happen' to her. Patterson made Jayme hide under his bed - which is about 2 1/2 feet off the ground - in the corner of his bedroom and sealed it off with tote boxes and weights so she could not crawl out. Jayme also had to remain under the bed whenever he left the house and would sometimes go hours without food, water or using the bathroom. When his father visited, Patterson told investigators that he turned up the radio in the bedroom to cover any noise she might make. On one occasion, Jayme said Patterson was mad and 'hit her really hard on the back with the handle of something he used to clean blinds'. Patterson said that Jayme had tried to escape his makeshift lair at least twice and when she had done so, he 'struck a wall and screamed a lot to the point where he knew she was scared and she better never try that again'. He believed her to be 'fearful enough not to leave the bedroom without him'. Patterson finally carried out his planned attack when he pulled into the Closs driveway in the early hours of October 15 dressed in black and wearing a face mask, hat and gloves. He kicked down the door and shot dead Jayme's parents. Their home is pictured above 'He killed my parents. I want to go home. Help me:' Jayme's daring escape after 88 days held captive TIMELINE OF JAYME CLOSS' ABDUCTION Oct. 15, 2018: James Closs, 56, and Denise Closs, 46, are found shot to death in their home in Barron, a town in western Wisconsin. Authorities issue an Amber Alert for 13-year-old Jayme Closs, and the search for her begins. Oct. 16, 2018: Investigators say they don't consider Jayme a suspect in her parents' deaths and say they believe the girl is in danger. Oct. 17, 2018: Authorities announce that investigators believe Jayme was in her family's home when her parents were fatally shot. Oct. 18, 2018: About 100 people join a ground search for Jayme after Barron County Sheriff Chris Fitzgerald requests the help of volunteers. The search turns up nothing useful. Oct. 23, 2018: About 2,000 volunteers from as far as Minneapolis help with another ground search. Oct. 24, 2018: The FBI offers a $25,000 reward for information leading to Jayme's location. The amount is later doubled to $50,000. Oct. 27, 2018: Funerals are held for James and Denise Closs. Jan. 10, 2019: Jayme is found alive in Gordon, a town about an hour's drive north of Barron. She is skinny, disheveled and wearing shoes too big for her when she approaches a stranger and pleads for help. A man driving around the rural area is soon taken into custody. Jan. 11, 2019: Investigators say the suspect, 21-year-old Jake Thomas Patterson, is jailed on homicide and kidnapping charges. Jan. 14, 2019: Prosecutors formally charge Patterson with two counts of intentional homicide and one count each of kidnapping and armed burglary. A judge sets bail at $5 million cash. A criminal complaint says Patterson saw Jayme get on a school bus one day, decided he would take her and then kept her trapped in his remote cabin until she escaped. Feb. 6, 2019: A judge orders Patterson to stand trial after Patterson waives his right to a preliminary hearing. March 27, 2019: Patterson pleads guilty to two counts of intentional homicide and one count of kidnapping. Sentencing is set for May 24. May 25, 2019: Patterson is sentenced. Advertisement Jayme made her daring escape on January 10 when Patterson made her go under the bed and told her he would be gone five or six hours. She pushed the boxes away, crawled out, put on a pair of Patterson's shoes and fled the house. A woman walking her dog spotted Jayme along a road near the home and said she was begging for help. The woman, Jeanne Nutter, said the girl told her Patterson had been hiding her in a nearby cabin and that she had escaped when he left her alone. Nutter immediately took Jayme to the nearby home of Kristin Kasinskas and called 911. The women recognized Jayme from missing person posters distributed by police in their wide-scale search for her. 'Hi. I have a young lady at my house right now and she has said her name is Jayme Closs,' Kasinskas told the 911 operator. The two women both spoke to the 911 operator and told them the kidnapper's name and gave a description of his car. The dispatcher asked: 'OK. Have you seen her photo, ma'am?' 'Yes. It is her. I 100 percent think it is her,' Kasinskas said. According to the audio, Jayme's first words to the woman walking her dog was: 'He killed my parents. I want to go home. Help me.' The two women both took turns speaking to the 911 operator to explain how Jayme approached them and to provide details about the teen's kidnapper, including his name and a description of his car. At one point, the two women told the 911 operator they feared the kidnapper could find them in the home if he was out looking for Jayme. 'I was walking my dog and we were almost home and she's walking towards me crying saying, 'you gotta help me, you gotta help me,' Nutter told the dispatcher. 'I didn't want to go into my cabin because it's too close to Patterson's house. 'His name is Jake Thomas Patterson and apparently his house is two doors down from our cabin... So we're kind of scared because he might come. The dispatcher asked the women to lock the doors and stay on the line because multiple deputies were en route to the area in search of Patterson. 'She has no idea where he is. She told me that when he leaves her she doesn't know that he's gone. He turns the music up real loud. He has people to come over and watch her, or no, wait... he pushed you/hides you under a bed, he has hidden her under a bed,' Nutter could be heart saying. 'He doesn't work and I asked her what kind of car. It's a red - he used to be in the military.' Jayme, pictured after she was rescued, escape after Patterson made her go under the bed and told her he would be gone five or six hours. She told police she pushed the boxes away, crawled out, put on a pair of Patterson's shoes and fled the house While the women were speaking to the dispatcher, Patterson had returned home to find Jayme missing and began a frantic search for her in his car. Police arrested him 10 minutes after the 911 call was place after spotting his car. Patterson told police that he assumed he had gotten away with the slayings and kidnappings after two weeks went by. He said he put stolen license plates on his car the night of the kidnapping and removed an anti-kidnapping release cord from his trunk. Patterson also shaved his head so he would not leave any hair behind and chose his father's Mossberg shotgun because he thought it was a common model that would be hard to trace. Following his arrest, photos obtained by DailyMail.com showed the squalid basement 'cell' where police believe Jayme was held for 88 days. The secret den beneath his home contained a scruffy mattress and had soft toys and women's clothes strewn everywhere. Other images of Patterson's home showed a shabby living area with a couch, refrigerator, an old television set and an unfinished ceiling. Exterior photographs showed a lean-to loaded with firewood, a three-car garage and an empty box of adult female diapers in a trash can. A sign over the cabin's front door reads 'Patterson's Retreat'. Patterson, who had no prior criminal history in Wisconsin, was described by people who knew him as a quiet and good student who participated in quiz bowl in high school. The teenager was seen publicly for the first time last week when she was presented with a Wisconsin Hometown Hero award at the State Capitol Jayme was spotted smiling as she was given a standing ovation by members of the Wisconsin State Assembly after being honored for her bravery and strong will. Her aunt Jennifer Smith spoke on Jayme's behalf and thanked the people of her hometown for their support He graduated from Northwood High School in Minong in the spring of 2015. He wrote in his high school yearbook of wanting to join the Marines. Patterson lasted just a little more than month in the corps before washing out in October 2015. He spent his time holed up in his home poring over outdoor survival guides and books about the military. Patterson lived at the $110,000 dwelling since he was a child with his mom Deborah, 49, dad Patrick, 55, sister Katie, 26, and older brother Erik, 24. His mother left after divorcing his father in 2007. In the years that followed, Katie, Patrick and Erik all moved out, leaving Patterson by himself. Patterson held a job at Barron's Jennie O Turkey Factory - where Denise and James Closs worked for more than two decades - for just one day some three years ago. His latest job prior to his arrest was at the Saputo Cheese Factory and lasted just two days. He had applied for a job online at the Saratoga Liquor Co. the same day that Jayme escaped. In the application, he called himself 'an honest and hardworking guy'. Prosecutors announced early on in the court case that he had no plans to file additional charges against Patterson. He was charged with two counts of intentional homicide and one of kidnapping. Authorities decided not to bring charges related to anything that might have happened in the cabin, a move that was widely seen as aiming to spare Jayme further pain and keep details private. Patterson (pictured with his mother Deborah, 49, and sister Katie, 26) was described by people who knew him as a quiet and good student who participated in quiz bowl in high school During the court hearing when he pleaded guilty to the charges, Patterson bizarrely yelled out 'bye Jayme' as he was led away in handcuffs. Jayme, who is now legally being cared for by her aunt Jennifer Smith, has rarely been seen in public since she escaped but her family said early on that she was in 'exceptionally good spirits' despite the horror ordeal. 'She's doing exceptionally well for what she went through,' her grandfather Robert Naiberg said soon after she was rescued. 'She's in exceptionally good spirits.' In a rare statement released by Jayme's family, they said she was taking comfort in the cards and letters she has received from supporters. The teenager was seen publicly for the first time last week when she was presented with a Wisconsin Hometown Hero award at the State Capitol. Jayme was spotted smiling as she was given a standing ovation by members of the Wisconsin State Assembly after being honored for her bravery and strong will. Her aunt Jennifer Smith spoke on Jayme's behalf and thanked the people of her hometown for their support in the past few months. Jayme stood behind her aunt but did not speak. 'She greatly appreciates the honor... and the kindness of everyone involved,' Smith said. 'Speaking for her entire family, I have to say, Jayme is totally deserving of the hero part of this award. 'Her courage, her bravery and her spirit are things that inspire us and make us stronger and better. Just like you, we want Jayme to know how much we love her.' Walter Kershaw, 78, has been banned from contacting Catherine Mitchell, 48, for life A world renowned artist who developed a 13-year obsession with a life model after painting her nude has been banned from contacting her for life. Walter Kershaw, 78, who has appeared on BBC TV and radio shows was arrested after he repeatedly hounded Catherine Mitchell, 48, following the break up of their 12 month affair which began in 2006 when she asked for him to paint her portrait. During his 'predatory' stalking campaign twice married Kershaw pursued his ex-lover around their hometown of Littleborough near Rochdale, Greater Manchester. The artist waited outside a church and followed her around the aisles of a supermarket telling her she was beautiful. He also sent her love letters and romantic cards and would drive slowly passed her home blowing kisses at her. Later he gave a head and shoulders oil portrait of Miss Mitchell pride of place in the front window of his art gallery in Littleborough, near Rochdale, Greater Manchester. Catherine Mitchell, 48, who was stalked by artist Walter Kershaw after she agreed to pose nude for him Miss Mitchell would take taxis to avoid her ex-suitor and even trudged across muddy fields at the back of her home so she would not encounter him outside her home. In 2013 Kershaw - who counted George Best and Bob Monkhouse amongst his fans - was ordered to keep away from Miss Mitchell under the terms of a restraining order. He was even banned from displaying a photo, painting, sketch drawing or any image of the victim. But he repeatedly continued harassing Miss Mitchell and was arrested again after he spotted then victim, now 48, again near a park on Christmas Eve last year as she was out on a shopping errand with her elderly mother. Mr Kershaw fell in love with Ms Mitchell after painting a nude portrait of her. Pictured: A nude portrait of another woman painted by Kershaw in 1964 During the incident he repeatedly told Miss Mitchell: 'I adore you' - forcing the two women to flee in a taxi. At Manchester magistrates court, Kershaw whose works in the 1970s earned him interviews with TV presenters including Anna Ford, Janet Street Porter, Sue McGregor and the late Russell Harty admitted three breaches of a restraining order and was banned from contacting Miss Mitchell indefinitely. He was sentenced to 20 weeks jail suspended for a year and was ordered to complete 100 hours unpaid work and play costs and surcharges of 200. A mural by Kershaw in Choumert Road, Peckham, south east London Kershaw had shot to fame in the 70s with his large-scale murals on houses was dubbed 'the Original Banksy' with his work displayed as far afield as Sao Paolo in Brazil. He met Miss Mitchell when she asked for the portrait in 2006 and they began a relationship but she said he was 'quite unpredictable' and 'very controlling' and had 'temper tantrums'. The following year she broke up with Kershaw after she was hit by a motorbike and suffered life-threatening brain and leg injuries in a collision outside his gallery. But Kershaw who would claim: 'You should never give up on love' continued pursuing Miss Mitchell around the town and placed a head and shoulders portrait of her in his shop window which she had not requested or seen. Police issued Miss Mitchell with a hand-held panic alarm and she used it when he turned up outside the house. Eventually in January 2009 he was spoken to by police and warned not to contact her but the following year PIN harassment orders was issued against Kershaw not to contact Miss Mitchell and her mother. Kershaw gave a head and shoulders oil portrait of Miss Mitchell pride of place in the front window of his art gallery in Littleborough, near Rochdale, Greater Manchester A mural of Kershaw's depicting a blonde haired woman. He is now banned from painting the victim In 2013 the father of two was ordered to the two women compensation after he approached Miss Mitchell as she was sat in her car but in 2015 was back on court and given a suspended sentence for hounding her again. He was eventually jailed for 26 weeks in 2017 after he approached Miss Mitchell at a Co-Op supermarket and tried to strike up a conversation with her. The latest incidents occurred On December 24, 27 and 29 last year whilst Miss Mitchell was out with her mother. Prosecutor James Gore said: 'The complainant was doing some shopping when she heard somebody say: 'it's Mr Kershaw'. 'The defendant then walked over to her and said: 'I adore you', which made her feel uncomfortable. He was persistent and she then went over to her mother, who she had been out with, got into a taxi and and they were driven. 'The defendant appeared to take the same road, but she didn't know if this was his normal route. She made the police aware in it, in any event. and she indicates she had seen Mr Kershaw a number of times. On one day in particular, December 27, Miss Mitchell was in a local shop with her mother when she sees Mr Kershaw speaking with her mother some distance away. Kershsaw is a world renowned graffiti artist known as the 'Original Banksy' 'He was saying: 'I do apologise' and he then left afterwards.' He told the judge: 'You have his antecedence and you know of the history in relation to this matter, including the number of previous breaches.' In previous police interview Kershaw had claimed he 'no idea' his conduct was affecting the two women. He said he was 'smitten' with Miss Mitchell and described her as a 'very beautiful woman.' But in a statement Miss Mitchell who had previously told how she been left in fear of Kershaw said: 'The incident at the park left me with a feeling of disbelief and very concerned for mine and my mother's safety. 'I don't know what he might do or what he is capable of. He has no regard for the conditions of his restraining order and I just want him to leave me alone.' Miss Mitchell's mother Marjorie, 74, said: 'l was shocked and thought to myself 'how dare you'. He has breached an order set down by the law, he must not be allowed to return to that in case he re-offends. I'd ask to make the restraining order for a few years which will allow us to move forward. It's predatory behaviour. 'We have taken taxis to avoid him, plodded across muddy fields and dodged aisle to aisle in the supermarket. I would describe him as a narcissistic individual who tries to oil himself in with people.' Walter Kershaw's gallery in Littleborough, Greater Manchester, where he displayed a portrait of Ms Mitchell without her consent In mitigation Kershaw's lawyer Richard Birtwhistle said: 'These are chance meetings - both parties live in Littleborough which is a small town with very few choices to make in terms of supermarkets and Mr Kershaw frequents the two shops in question on a regular basis. 'Perhaps the frequency of the visits paid to those shops by the complainant and her mother increased due to the time of year and increased the chance of the chance meeting. There has been no further offending reported since the these matters at the very end of 2018.' Sentencing district judge Alexandra Simmonds told Kershaw: 'This isn't the first time you have breached the order it is the fourth, fifth and sixth time you have breached the order by all rights I could send you to prison. 'It seems to me that these offences are so serious only a custodial sentence can be justified but I have decided to suspend it because since December of last year you have complied with this order. You haven't done anything more sinister than apologise for your previous behaviour. 'There will be no compensation as it is not possible to quantify the distress that may have been caused as a result of your behaviour.' President Donald Trump's top Mideast advisers face skeptical audiences as they visit several locations in the region and in Europe starting Tuesday to rally support for what they have billed as a workshop on the economic foundations of peace between Israel and the Palestinians. The White House is promoting the June 25-26 meeting in the Gulf state of Bahrain as the first phase of its long-awaited Mideast peace plan, which envisions large-scale investment and infrastructure work, much of it funded by wealthy Arab countries, in the Palestinian territories. But American officials say the Bahrain conference will not include the core political issues of the conflict: borders of a Palestinian state, the status of Jerusalem, the fate of Palestinian refugees or Israeli security demands. A White House official said the trip, with stops in Morocco, Jordan, Israel and Europe 'is part of our ongoing efforts to achieve peace between Israel and the Palestinians' but offered no specifics. The official was not authorized to speak publicly about the meetings and spoke on condition of anonymity. Off to the Middle East: Jared Kushner is touring Morocco, Jordan and Israel with other White House advisers before heading to Europe as he tries to build support for his plan for peace in Palestine Off the agenda: The first stage of Jared's plan is an investment conference in Bahrain. But it will not mention the status of Jerusalem, which the Palestinians and Israelis both claim as their own, putting the Dome of the Rock and the al-Aqsa mosque, Islam's second-holiest site, in disputed territory Protests: Jordanian police stand guard as members of Muslim Brotherhood take part in a sit-in against the Jared Kushner's visit to Jordan to push for support for his peace plan Ready for confrontation: Jordan deployed riot police as the Muslim Brotherhood protested against Kushner meeting ministers The Palestinians will not attend the Bahrain meeting, rejecting the parameters of the conference, while key American allies Egypt and Jordan have not announced their plans for participation. For now, the Americans are pinning their hopes on wealthy Gulf states, led by Saudi Arabia, hoping their regional influence and deep pockets can make the conference a success. The Saudis, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, along with host Bahrain, have accepted invitations to attend. This has fueled Palestinian jitters that they will come under heavy pressure to accept large sums of money in exchange for freezing or abandoning aspirations for an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip. 'The deal of the century or the deal of shame will go to hell, with God's will, and the economic project they are working on next month will go to hell too,' Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said this week. 'Whoever wants to solve the Palestinian issue must start with the political issue, not by selling the illusions of billions (of dollars.' Jared Kushner, Trump's senior adviser and son in law, announced the plans for the Bahrain conference last week, saying it would focus on economic issues and investment in the Palestinian territories. The absence of a political horizon has put American allies in the region in a bind. Heavily reliant on the U.S. for political and military support, it is difficult for countries like Jordan to say no to the invitation. But the Palestinian issue resonates deeply with the Arab public and it is difficult for leaders to embrace a plan that does not promise the Palestinians a state. In accepting the invitation to the Bahrain conference, Gulf countries have been careful to express solidarity with the Palestinians but have also signaled flexibility. These countries have forged quiet relationships in recent years with Israel, driven primarily by a shared animosity to Iran. Those concerns, and readiness to engage with Israel, appear to outweigh any sympathies they may feel with the Palestinians. 'Dialogue with Israel is a positive thing,' Anwar Gargash, the UAE's minister of state for foreign affairs, recently told journalists. 'I think this is something that we need to do, but at the same time the dialogue with Israel doesn't mean that we don't disagree with them politically.' Palestinian officials have called on Arab countries not to attend the Bahrain workshop. Abbas is expected to step up those calls at a pair of conferences later this week in Saudi Arabia. But changing their minds may be difficult. In a recent editorial, the editor in chief of a Saudi newspaper with close ties to the palace urged the Palestinians to give the Trump plan a chance. 'The Palestinians should negotiate hard, and then take what they can to secure a nation state for future generations,' Faisal Abbas wrote in the Arab News. 'There is nothing to be gained from a refusal to come to the negotiating table.' In another important diplomatic breakthrough, Qatar, which has been embroiled in a bitter dispute with Saudi Arabia, has agreed to attend, a possible precursor of a broader reconciliation among Gulf rivals. Beyond the Gulf, the plan appears to face skepticism. Jordan is in an especially sensitive situation. A majority of the population has Palestinian roots, and the kingdom borders the Israeli-occupied West Bank, the heartland of any future Palestinian state. Any perception that Jordan is selling out the interests of the Palestinians would be deeply unpopular and possibly even destabilizing. Ahead of Kushner's arrival, Jordan's foreign minister, Ayman Safadi, indicated he is uncomfortable with the economy-first approach. Trying already: Jared Kushner traveled to Warsaw, Poland, in February, to discuss Middle East peace at a conference The official Petra news agency said that in a phone call with his Irish counterpart, Safadi stressed that 'any economic plan to handle the consequences of the conflict can't be an alternative to a comprehensive political plan that aims at fulfilling the two-state solution.' 'Safadi stressed that all efforts for solving the conflict need to begin from the fact that ending occupation is the path for peace,' the agency said. Egypt, a key U.S. and Israeli ally that borders Gaza, also has not said whether it will attend. An Egyptian official said businessmen who do business with Israelis might take part in the conference as 'individuals.' The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss the matter with the media. President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi has repeatedly called for the resumption of Israeli-Palestinian peace talks. Kushner's visit to the region started Tuesday in Morocco, a moderate Arab state that has low-level ties with Israel. From there he was to head to Jordan, then Israel and on to Europe. The European Union has not said whether it will attend the conference, while Russia, another key player in the region, late Tuesday called the meeting an attempt by Washington to enforce its views on the Middle East. A statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry criticized what it called the United States' 'stubborn desire to replace the task of achieving a comprehensive political settlement with a package of economic bonuses that dilutes the principle of two states for two peoples.' After more than two years of work, Kushner's team still has not unveiled its political vision. But his few public statements have indicated they will focus heavily on so-called economic peace while sidelining or ignoring the longstanding Palestinian goal of independence. The two-state solution continues to enjoy the broad support of the international community. Abbas and his autonomy government in the West Bank cut off ties with the White House after Trump recognized contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital in December 2017. Israel captured east Jerusalem in 1967 and annexed it to its capital. Though Trump said his declaration did not determine the city's final borders, the Palestinians saw the move as unfairly favoring Israel. U.S. cuts in aid, and the closure of the Palestinian diplomatic office in Washington, further deepened their suspicions. Saeb Erekat, a top Palestinian official, noted this week that the Palestinians were not even consulted about the Bahrain conference. 'Let us be clear,' he wrote in the New York Times. 'There will be no economic prosperity in Palestine without the end of the occupation.' A Chinese car dealer specialised in selling Mercedes-Benz vehicles has been fined more than 114,000 for 'selling faulty cars' as well as 'misleading customers'. The authorised dealer in north-western China's Xi'an city was at the central of a public outrage in April after a female customer claimed her 75,000 new car had an oil leak the first time she drove it. The woman staged a protest in the showroom after the store had allegedly refused to replace the new CLS 300 coupe even though she hadn't driven it out of the store, according to previous report. A market watchdog in the Chinese city of Xi'an has fined the Xi'an Lizhixing Automobile more than 114,000 for selling faulty cars as well as misleading customers. The company is an authorised dealer of Mercedes-Benz, one of the most popular car brands in China (file photo) Footage of the woman's protest went viral and sparked an outcry on the Chinese social media, forcing the German auto giant to apologise. Now the dealer has been ordered to hand in one million yuan (114,141) to the Chinese treasury following an investigation from the market watchdog of the Gaoxin District of Xi'an. In a statement yesterday, the authority confirmed the alleged oil leak and deemed it 'a problem of the product's quality', reported Xinhua News Agency. The watchdog issued the dealer, Xi'an Lizhixing Automobile, a 500,000 yuan (57,111) fine for providing 'products and service that fail to protect personal safety and property safety'. The dealer was also given a 500,000 yuan (57,111) bill for misleading customers and making profit from it. A video was posted showing the female customer sitting on the hood of a car in the showroom in Xi'an city and angrily accusing sales staff of dodging her demands for a replacement Xi'an Lizhixing Automobile said it was willing to accept the punishment. The company also apologised to the public for the 'negative impact the event brought to the society'. In a social media statement from yesterday, the car dealer said it would carry out self-reflection and self-improvement. The company said it would follow the 'customer-first' policy and rectify the problems in its services. It thanked the authorities, media and web users for their supervision and attention. In the trending video from April, the customer, known by her surname Wang, is seen sitting on the bonnet of a car in the showroom and angrily accusing sales staff of dodging her demands for a replacement. 'We're very sorry for whatever happened,' said Hubertus Troskas, a board member and head of China operations for Daimler - Mercedes's parent group - shortly after the incident in April 'I wouldn't be doing something so embarrassing like this if we were able to discuss it reasonably,' the woman was heard yelling. 'I spent 660,000 yuan (75,292) on a car and hadn't even driven a single kilometre [before it started leaking],' she added. 'First, you promised me a refund. Then you said that was too inconvenient, so you said you could give me a replacement. I agreed,' she said. 'Then you said that was also inconvenient and offered me compensation, which I also accepted,' she said. 'Then yesterday, you said you could only swap the engine according to company policy. How can I accept that?' The woman also alleged in later media interviews that she originally wanted to pay cash for the car but was pressured by the dealer into taking out a low interest loan that came with a 'financial service fee' of more than 15,000 yuan (1,710). Chinese car buyers contributed to more than a quarter of the brand's global sales last year Hubertus Troskas, a board member and head of China operations for Daimler - Mercedes's parent group - made a public apology shortly after the incident in April. Daimler is yet to respond to the decision of the fines on their dealer. China is the largest single market for Mercedes-Benz in the world. Last year, customers in the Far East reportedly bought 674,125 new cars from Mercedes-Benz and its affiliation Smart - more than a quarter of the brand's global sales. Evangelical leader Franklin Graham and more than 250 other Christian luminaries are asking America's Bible-believers to pray from President Trump on June 2 in the hope that God will take his side in political battles that have roiled Washington. Graham wrote Sunday on Facebook that pastors should lead their congregations in the 'Special Day of Prayer' to ask the almighty to 'protect, strengthen, encourage, and guide' the president. 'President Trumps enemies continue to try everything to destroy him, his family, and the presidency. In the history of our country, no president has been attacked as he has. I believe the only hope for him, and this nation, is God,' Graham wrote. This is a critical time for America. Were on the edge of a precipice. Time is short. We need to pray for God to intervene. We need to ask God to protect, strengthen, encourage, and guide the President, he continued. 'He's our president,' Graham added in a Twitter video clip, 'and if he succeeds we all benefit. But if his enemies are allowed to destroy him and pull down the presidency it will hurt our entire nation.' Evangelist minister Franklin Graham (left) is calling on thousands of churches to say special prayers for Donald Trump this coming Sunday, in the hope that God will intervene to save the president from his political enemies A U.S. Navy sailor handed his Bible to Trump to autograph on Tuesday after the president spoke aboard the USS Wasp at JMSDF Yokosuka base in Yokosuka, Japan Graham posted a call to prayer this weekend, asking for thousands of churches to get on their knees for Trump next Sunday Graham said 'many thousands of churches' will take part in the targeted prayer sessions. The Texas preacher's father was the late evangelist Billy Graham. He now leads the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and the Samaritan's Purse charity. He's also a reliable Trump booster, along with other co-signers of the call to prayer who cautiously backed the president and quietly chuckled when the sometimes-Presbyterian clumsily cited 'Two Corinthians' instead of 'Second Corinthians.' Franklin Graham is among a small group of spiritual advisers who have tried to guide the iconoclastic and often unruly Trump But they have found in him a president eager to defend religious liberties, influence millions of evangelicals to vote, and autograph Bibles along the way. Graham risks drawing culture-war pressure to Trump with his unapologetic positions against gay rights. He said last week that Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg should repent his homosexual 'sin.' 'Buttigieg is right God doesnt have a political party,' he tweeted. 'But God does have commandments, laws & standards He gives us to live by.' As a Christian I believe the Bible,' he added, 'which defines homosexuality as sin, something to be repentant of, not something to be flaunted, praised or politicized.' The Bible says marriage is between a man & a woman not two men, not two women,' he wrote. Graham is the son of the late evangelical Christian preacher Billy Graham (pictured in 2005) Franklin Graham risks becoming a cultural lightning rod that could fry Trump: He tweeted last week that '[t]he Bible says marriage is between a man & a woman not two men, not two women' The Trump-backing Graham has sparred with Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg, who would be the first openly gay U.S. president if he were elected Graham has become a controversial figure both inside and outside Christian cultural circles because of his support for President Trump. When asked about allegations that Trump had an affair with porn star Stormy Daniels and then paid her hush money to keep quiet about it, he said last year: 'President Trump I dont think has admitted to having an affair with this person. And so this is just a news story, and I dont even know if its accurate.' Graham told NBC News at the time: 'We certainly don't hold him up as the pastor of this nation and he is not.' Other Christian leaders joining Graham in his call to prayer include former Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann, preacher Kenneth Copeland, Liberty University president Jerry Falwell Jr., civil rights activist Alveda King, Family Research Council president Tony Perkins, Faith and Freedom coalition leader Ralph Reed, Christian recording artist Michael W. Smith and preacher Paula White-Cain. Harun Khan (pictured) is demanding that the Equality and Human Rights Commission investigate the Conservative Party The Conservative Party should be investigated by a human rights watchdog over allegations of Islamophobia, the Muslim Council of Britain says. In a letter to the chairman of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), the body's secretary-general, Harun Khan, said he believed there is 'sufficient evidence' to suggest there is a 'prima facie case to answer of systemic unlawful acts' by the party. He claimed there is a 'tolerance for Islamophobia at the highest levels' of the party, and an 'atmosphere of hostility' towards Muslim members. The intervention came just hours after the EHRC revealed it was investigating Jeremy Corbyn's Labour Party. It is the second ever party to face an official racism probe, the first being the far-right British National Party. Now Mr Khan says around 150 Tory representatives and members have 'engaged in Islamophobia', and accused those responsible for handling complaints of demonstrating a 'callous attitude' - and claimed the party has 'denied' there is a problem. 'Any one of these charges should be sufficient to indicate a serious problem,' he wrote to EHRC chief David Isaac. The announcement is another blow for Jeremy Corbyn (pictured at his London home yesterday), who has been struggling to contain fury about the handling of anti-Semitism among activists 'Taken together, this has led to there being a situation where members of the party, and prospective members from a Muslim background specifically, have felt and publicly stated that there is an institutional problem of Islamophobia, where racism against Muslims is not dealt with other than where there is a media spotlight on the issue.' He added: 'Despite the escalation in the number of cases of Islamophobia, there appears to have been no change in the approach taken. 'The party has thus far failed to sufficiently engage with members of the party who have raised these concerns privately and then publicly (from Baroness Warsi and Lord Sheikh to the Conservative Muslim Forum), or Muslim community groups such as the Muslim Council of Britain. 'Given this lack of willingness to take any opportunity to tackle this problem once and for all, we are hoping that the EHRC will be able to launch a formal investigation into this presumed breach of the Equality Act, and identify ways to ensure to rectify this serious issue within the governing party of this country.' Criticism of the Conservative hierarchy's response has been led by former Tory chairwoman Baroness Warsi, who has called for an independent inquiry into 'institutional' Islamophobia in the party. A 34-year-old man has drowned in a southwestern Oklahoma lake after jumping into the water to rescue a girl. Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers say the body of Zachary Tryon, of Chickasha, was recovered at 8.18pm Monday from Lake Chickasha, about 40 miles southwest of Oklahoma City. The patrol says Tryon was on a boat with two other men at around 5.20pm when they noticed a girl struggling in the water nearby. Scroll down for video Zachary Tryon, 34 (left and right), drowned in Lake Chickasha in Oklahoma rescuing a girl Tryon and two other men were in a boat when they saw the girl struggling in the lake All three men jumped in to help, but Tryon never resurfaced; his body was found hours later in 8 feet of water All three men jumped into the water to help and the other two men eventually returned the girl safely to shore. But troopers say Tryon disappeared beneath the surface Monday evening and didnt resurface. The patrol says his body was recovered in about 8 feet of water about 10 feet from a dock. He wasnt wearing a life vest at the time. According to social media posts, Tyron was married with children. He and wife Cherie had just celebrated their sixth wedding anniversary on May 15. A family friend wrote in a Facebook status on Tuesday that Tyron 'was a great swimmer.' A member of the so-called 'Beatles' gang of British ISIS terrorists has admitted he was behind a plot to kill soldiers and police in west London. Alexanda Kotey, who was captured by Kurdish fighters in Syria last year, said he had funnelled cash to UK extremists and tried to arrange a massacre in Shepherd's Bush. Speaking to ITV News he also acknowledged his contacts with fellow British terrorist Mohammed Emwazi, the ISIS killer nicknamed 'Jihadi John'. He said the pair had worked as 'hostage keepers' in Syria to extract information from prisoners such as journalist James Foley, who was beheaded by Emwazi in 2014. Alexanda Kotey (pictured), who was captured by Kurdish fighters in Syria last year, said he had funnelled cash to UK extremists as he tried to arrange a massacre in Shepherd's Bush Kotey said the planned London killing spree, which was foiled in 2014, was supposed to be part of a wider plan to create sleeper cells in European countries. 'The idea was to plant people in countries so that if there was any aggression from these countries they would have people who would conduct a mission,' he said. Discussing his role with Emwazi he said the Londoners had joined Islamic State in Idlib as regular fighters in 2012. Following an 'order from above' they were relocated to Aleppo, where there were more Western prisoners, he said. 'When that order came for [Emwazi] to move to the countryside he requested that we accompany him,' he said. 'They were more in number [the prisoners] ,they had gathered them in one place, different nationalities, varying nationalities. '[At] this point it was instructed to extract email addresses from them to open up communication. Kotey has also acknowledged his contacts with fellow British terrorist Mohammed Emwazi, the ISIS killer nicknamed 'Jihadi John' (pictured) 'This was mostly before, in the time of Idlib - the time of Aleppo there wasn't really that kind of interaction between myself and the prisoners. 'It was go and take the necessary information and leave,' he said. Despite admitting his association with Emwazi, known for carrying out several filmed beheadings, Kotey denied any involvement with those killings. 'I don't see in my case it makes a very big difference if I was actually there or not there,' he said. However U.S. officials said Kotey and fellow 'Beatle' El Shafee Elsheikh 'are suspected to have participated in the detention, exploitation and execution of Western detainees'. Kotey is under guard in the caliphate's former heartland having fallen into the hands of Kurdish militia fighters in January. Emwazi was killed in a US air strike in 2015 after appearing in a number of videos in which captives including British aid workers David Haines and Alan Henning were beheaded. The fourth gang member, Aine Davis, was convicted of being a member of a terrorist organisation and jailed in Turkey in May 2017. The four Londoners were linked to a string of hostage murders in Iraq and Syria during the bloody Islamist uprising and gained global notoriety. Two further men were jailed for life over the Shepherd's Bush terror plot in 2016. Tarik Hassane and Suhaib Majeed were imprisoned at the Old Bailey for conspiracy to murder and preparation of terrorist acts. Hassane had identified Shepherd's Bush police station and the Parachute Regiment Territorial Army Barracks at White City as possible targets on Google Street View. Mohammed Emwazi (left), also known as Jihadi John, and Aine Davis (right), who was jailed in 2017 in Turkey for belonging to the terror group The judge told the pair: 'It is shocking, tragic and deplorable that you, two young British men, educated through the UK school system, undertaking university courses, should be so influenced by the bloodthirsty version of Islam presented by Isis and other similarly minded groups, that you decided to take up arms against your fellow British citizens and those charged with protecting them in the streets of your own city.' Prosecutor Brian Altman QC had said Hassane and Majeed were heavily influenced by the rise of Islamic State, which pronounced a caliphate in June 2014. Within days, Hassane pledged his allegiance to IS and encouraged his friends to follow suit. He was pictured posing with a gun in one hand and a book on Osama bin Laden in the other. His close friend Majeed was studying at the prestigious King's College London and was chairman of its Islamic society. The court heard that Majeed sent a picture of a dead fighter 'laughing' to a Telegram chat group named Turnup Terror Squad, of which Hassane was also a member. And he had a 'grim' video of Jihadi John beheading a journalist on his iPad, jurors were told. Acting on instructions from mastermind Tarik Hassane, physics student Majeed had got his hands on a gun and ammunition and was discussing buying an untraceable moped before police swooped to arrest him in September 2014. His old school friend Hassane, nicknamed The Surgeon, was studying medicine in Sudan at the time but rushed back to London to carry on as a 'lone wolf terrorist' before he too was picked up. This is the shocking moment a serial thief was caught on CCTV placing his coat over a bag in a Heathrow airport cafe before walking away with it. Kiberom Fikadu, 31, was jailed for two years and four months at Isleworth Crown Court today after he spent December and January targeting travellers. A regular at coffee shops at Paddington Station, Heathrow Airport, and Central Bus Station, Fikadu was reported for acting suspiciously on January 10. A member of staff thought he was about to steal a bag and called the police. In CCTV footage released by police today, Fikadu can be seen stealing a bag at a coffee shop in the arrivals section of Heathrow Airport on January 3, 2019. The victim places her bag on the seat next to her and turns her back to speak to a friend. Kiberom Fikadu, 31, was jailed for two years and four months at Isleworth Crown Court today after he spent December and January targeting travellers While she is eating, Fikadu places his coat over her bag, looks around to see if anyone is looking, and gradually pulls the chair away from the table. Taking another glance around he picks up the bag, covered by his coat, and walks away. Investigating officer, PC Barry Munnelly of the Met's Aviation Policing Command, said: 'Fikadu looked for people who were either reading, busy chatting or eating, and helped himself to their belongings. 'His actions are a reminder of the importance of staying alert and keeping your possessions in sight at all times when you are travelling.' PC Munnelly was one of a number of officers to attend the Central Bus Station on January 10 after receiving the call from the concerned staff member. When PC Munnelly arrived, he found Fikadu hiding behind a newspaper and almost immediately recognised him as a man caught on CCTV stealing a suitcase from Heathrow Airport on 4 January. The officers searched Fikadu and found he was carrying two passports which had that month been reported as stolen. He was also carrying a lock knife, two laptops and cannabis. The officers arrested him on suspicious of theft, possession of a bladed article and possession of a Class B drug. Taking another glance around he picks up the bag, covered by his coat, and walks away Fikadu pleaded guilty to two of the offences but pleaded not guilty to theft of the passports and the suitcase. Meanwhile, the Aviation Policing Command set about investigating where the laptops had come from, using the serial numbers on them to identify they had been reported as stolen from a coffee shop at Heathrow Airport on January 9 and from a patron at a pub in Paddington Train Station on December 11. Fikadu's timeline of crimes December 11: Stole a laptop from a woman in a pub at Paddington Train Station. January 3: Caught on CCTV stealing a bag from a woman at a coffee shop at arrivals in Heathrow Airport. January 4: Stole a suitcase at Heathrow. January 6: Stole a wallet from a train in Sussex. The next day he left it at a money exchange in Heathrow. January 9: Stole a laptop from a coffee shop at Heathrow. January 10: Coffee shop staff member who was suspicious Fikadu would steal a bag called police and he was arrested at Heathrow. Advertisement At the pub at Paddington Train Station the victim reported being followed by a man who sat opposite her at a table. While she read her newspaper, he pulled her bag containing her laptop - towards him under the table before covering it with a newspaper of his own and walking out. The APC also identified Fikadu as the culprit of the theft of a wallet from a man on a train in Sussex on January 6, 2019. Fikadu was caught on CCTV accidentally leaving the wallet behind at a money exchange shop at Heathrow Airport the following day. The wallet had been retained by diligent staff who realised that the driving licence photo of the owner of the wallet was not the same as Fikadu, and called the police. Fikadu was charged with the theft of the laptops and handling stolen goods namely the wallet on February 18. He pleaded guilty to these offences at North West London Magistrates' Court on February 22. After refusing to leave his prison cell, Fikadu was found guilty of the thefts of the passport and suitcase on February 27. One count of theft of a mobile phone was dismissed. Speaking after sentencing today, PC Barry Munnelly said: 'Each of Fikadu's thefts caused distress and disruption to the victims. I am pleased that we have been able to bring him to justice.' Alishan Mahmood, 19, from High Wycombe, northwest London, has said he was saved by the iPhone virtual assistant Siri after he collapsed in his kitchen A 19-year-old boy who smashed his face after fainting while alone at home has said he was saved by the iPhone virtual assistant Siri after it phoned for help. Alishan Mahmood, from High Wycombe, northwest London, described being left 'blinded' by blood and glass after collapsing in his kitchen and falling onto a pint glass he was carrying. Unable to move, Mr Mahmood, whose frantic calls to neighbours went unheard, decided to call out to his recently purchased iPhone X. The retail worker, who shouted 'hey Siri' as he lay on the floor, then asked the voice activated assistant on his smartphone to call his older sister Rbeeda, 21, who rushed home while phoning for an ambulance. Describing the terrifying event, Mr Mahmood said: 'It was really scary. 'When I opened my right eye all I could see was blood. I thought for a moment I was going blind. 'I couldn't really breathe properly and I was going into a bit of a panic. 'I tried to stretch out to my phone which must have been about a metre away. Then I remembered about the Siri setting. Mr Mahmood (pictured after the accident) collapsed in his kitchen and fell onto a pint glass he was carrying A tumbler similar to the one that Alishan Mahmood had been carrying before he cut his face 'It felt like the stupidest thing calling out to it but I had no other choice but to give it a go. 'I called out ''Hey Siri'' and it responded ''How can I help?'' 'I felt this sigh of relief as it was as though someone was acknowledging the pain I was in. 'I then said ''phone Rbeeda'' and it put me through straight away. 'Thankfully she picked up the phone straight away and phoned an ambulance too. 'People always slag off young people for always having their phones in their hand but had I left it upstairs I would have been there for God knows how long.' Mr Mahmood had decided to spend his bank holiday Sunday home alone after feeling 'dizzy' earlier in the day. With his mother, father and five sisters out for a family meal, he had text his older sister Rbeeda at 10pm saying he was heading to bed. The retail worker shouted 'hey Siri' and asked the voice activated assistant to call his older sister Rbeeda, 21. (File picture) Mr Mahmood was taken to Stoke Mandeville Hospital in Aylesbury but doctors could not discover the reason he had fainted However as he poured himself a glass of tropical juice, Mr Mahmood suddenly collapsed on the kitchen floor with the tumbler in his hand. Mr Mahmood's panicked phone call allowed his family to call 999 while driving home to help him. His family and paramedics arrived at the house within 15 minutes and Mr Mahmood was taken to Stoke Mandeville Hospital in Aylesbury. He had blood tests and CT scans but doctors did not discover the reason he had fainted and he was sent home to rest. Mr Mahmood added: 'The moral of the story is Siri saved my life. 'You do just think 48 a month is a waste of money but now I think of it in a different way. 'You can't put a price on life.' The recent assassination of a teenage clerk, who decided to take up on a job at a local store so that he could help out his mother and buy himself a new computer, has sparked outrage all over Mexico. The senseless murder occurred Sunday afternoon when three masked armed men barged into the convenience store located in Manzanillo, Colima, and shot 15-year-old German Mauricio Ruiz Garcia at close range. A CCTV camera showed the moment the assassins ordered a man and a woman into a corner near the counter before two of them walked behind the cash register. WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT 15-year-old German Mauricio Ruiz Garcia was assassinated during a robbery at a convenience store in Mexico on Sunday. The high school student took up a job to help his mother and so that he could buy himself a new computer The terrifying assassination of German Mauricio Ruiz Garcia (pictured kneeling) generated outrage in Mexico Two of the assailants then quickly pried open the registers and each pulled out the cash-filled drawers while Ruiz Garcia stood by without putting up a struggle. The men then ordered the high school student to get on his knees before they made a run for the exit. The surveillance video recorded the terrifying moment the third gunman walked over from the store's entrance door that he had been guarding and fired a bullet into the innocent boy's back. 'My son was a good child, he did not hurt anyone and he was working at Kiosko to fulfill his dream which was to have his computer,' Rosa Elia Garcia said according to local outlet Contexto Colima. "Every two weeks he told me he needed less for the computer.' The killing sparked outrage throughout Mexico social media users called for justice. German Mauricio Ruiz Garcia (pictured) was shot in the back by one of the three assassins Ruiz Garcia is the third minor that has been murdered in the western Mexico city of Mazanillo over the last week and a half 'You can see that the death penalty already exists in the country, just on the wrong side of the scale,' Twitter user @tanyi81 wrote. Ruiz Garcia is the third minor that has been murdered in Mazanillo over the last week and a half. A 16-year-old identified as Yareli was killed May 20 in the Pacific coast city when two men approached her on a motorcycle and opened fire while she was walking on a street. According to Manzanillo mayor Griselda Martinez, the teenage girl was previously arrested three times for selling drugs. On May 13, 14-year-old boy was shot dead in front of his home. The motive for his killing in unknown. During a press conference Monday, the mayor blamed drug traffickers for unleashing terror in her town. The state of Colima is one of the deadliest in Mexico, reporting 81.09 homicides per 100,000 residents. Funeral services for Ruiz Garcia were scheduled for Tuesday afternoon. When sixteen-year-old Seth Phillips saw a disabled man struggling to push himself along the street in his wheelchair during a tornado warning last Tuesday, he jumped out of his mom's car to help. The teen pushed the elderly man the remaining quarter of a mile to his house in St. Louis, Missouri on May 21. Gregory Beck, who is legally blind and lost both of his legs last year, had been wheeling himself home when tornado sirens started blaring. Sixteen-year-old Seth Phillips pushed a wheelchair-bound man home before a storm hit St. Louis, Missouri Seth, pictured with his mother Amber Gilleylen during a CNN appearance on May 26, jumped out of his mom's car to help Gregory Beck get home amid a tornado alert It would usually take him at least 25 minutes to get home from the supermarket and he would need to stop around 10 times to rest his tired arms. He said drivers honked and yelled at the him as he tried to cross the street and make it up the hill before the storm hit. 'Everyone kept telling me the storm is coming and you need to hurry up and get home,' Beck told KMOV4. No one stopped to physically help Beck, until Seth Phillips and his mother, Amber Gilleylen, who were on their way home from the grocery store, pulled over. Worried for the mans safety, Seth asked his mom if he could push Beck home. 'Just the greatest people and very concerned about other people, which America needs to start doing more of,' Beck said. Gregory Beck was struggling to wheel himself home when Seth and his mom pulled over to help. Beck told KMOV4 they were 'the greatest people' Beck, who lost both of his legs last year and is legally blind, usually has to push himself up a hill to get home from the store Seth's mom filmed his act of kindness and posted the video on social media, where it was viewed thousands of times Proud of her sons compassionate gesture, Gilleylen captured a video of him pushing Beck to safety. When she posted the clip on Facebook it was viewed thousands of times. 'My hope is that other teenagers will see that its the cool thing to do, you know, its good to help other people,' Gilleylen told KMOV4. 'It doesnt make you uncool to stop and help someone who needs it.' Seth's mother Amber Gilleylen posted the video of her son helping Beck on Facebook with a caption explaining what happened Gilleylen followed her teenage son in the car and filmed him helping the elderly man to safety Seth rushed to push Beck the remaining quarter of a mile to his home before the bad weather hit And though she is proud, Gilleylen said this kind of behavior is not unusual for her son. She said on Facebook that his only complaint was: 'I hate that we live in a world where people would rather fly by and honk at a disabled person than to lend a hand.' 'We need to be caring for each other and helping each other out,' Seth said. Beck said he was very thankful for the family's help and that even the smallest acts of kindness can mean a lot. Gilleylen has since set up a GoFundMe page to buy an electric wheelchair for Beck, which has raised more than $4,500. She wrote that his current chair does not have a footrest and 'isn't quite fitting his needs' and that an electric version would 'provide him with a safer and more sensible way to get to and from home'. 'Seth want's to see the world become a better kinder place, so I am asking you to help me show him what can happen if we all pull together and make a way,' she added. On May 21, some 22 tornadoes were reported across Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas and Kansas. Rescue crews in boats pulled at least 50 people from flood waters as heavy downpours inundated roads and homes. In Missouri, severe storms killed dozens of people and destroyed or damaged hundreds of homes last week. Pope Francis said he would tell President Donald Trump to his face that the southern border wall and family separation policies are 'cruel.' The current pope, who is Argentinian, has clashed with Trump on several occasions over illegal immigration and migrant issues. 'I don't know what's happening with this new culture of defending territories by building walls. We already knew one, that (one) in Berlin, which brought so many headaches and so much suffering,' the Pope said in an interview with Mexico's Televisa, which aired Tuesday. He said the Trump administration's zero-tolerance immigration policies, and the push to build a border wall between the U.S. and Mexico, is 'very sad.' Pope Francis, who is Argentinian, said he would directly tell President Donald Trump his family separation policies and building a southern border wall is 'cruel' Trump regularly clashes with Democrats over border wall funding, and has redirected millions of Defense Department funding to build miles of the wall between the U.S. and Mexico 'Separating children from their parents goes against natural law, and those Christians ... you can't do it. It is cruel. It is among the greatest of cruelties. And to defend what? Territory, or the economy of a country or who knows what,' Francis continued. The pope said he would tell Trump the same exact thing if they were sitting across from each other. 'The same. The same because I say it publicly,' Francis told Vatican reporter Valentina Alazraki, who is Mexican. 'I have even said that those who build walls end up being prisoners of the walls they build.' Trump met with the 266th pope at the Vatican in 2017 during his first official overseas trip as president. The president has declared a humanitarian crisis at the southern border after he failed to reach an agreement with Democrats on wall funding. He says the wall is needed to address a crisis of illegal immigration, human trafficking, drugs and crime flowing across the border into the United States. He continues to clash with the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives and some judges on how to fund it, and recently has redirected millions in Defense Department funds to construction of miles of border wall. Trump, who met with the pope in 2017, implemented zero-tolerance illegal immigration policies that led to an influx in children being separated from their parents when families illegally crossed the U.S.-Mexico border together The Trump administration implemented a zero-tolerance illegal immigration stance that increased the amount of children being separated from their parents when illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border. Trump later reversed the policy after widespread outcry, and last month, his administration denied media reports that his administration was considering reinstating the policy. There are no future plans for Trump and the pope to meet again. Francis was also asked about a group of ultra-conservatives who earlier this month began a signature campaign urging bishops to denounce him as a heretic over a range of topics from communion for the divorced to religious diversity. Francis said he did not feel hurt and took it 'with a sense of humor,' adding, 'I pray for them because they are wrong, and, poor people, some of them are being manipulated.' Netflix has come out strongly against Georgia's recent passing of a strict abortion bill, suggesting the streaming giant would no longer use the state as a filming location should the controversial legislation ever be upheld. Chief content officer Ted Sarandos said Tuesday that Netflix would 'rethink our entire investment in Georgia' if legislation known as the 'heartbeat bill' came into effect. The streaming giant currently has five projects filming in the state: The Liberator, Christmas on the Square, Holidate, Season 2 of Insatiable and Season 3 of Ozark. The money-spinning hit series Stranger Things has previously used Atlanta and Jackson as locations for filming. Chief content officer Ted Sarandos said Tuesday that Netflix would 'rethink our entire investment in Georgia' if legislation known as the 'heartbeat bill' came into effect. The streaming giant currently has five projects filming in the state: The Liberator, Christmas on the Square, Holidate, Season 2 of Insatiable and Season 3 of Ozark The withdrawal from the state would likely lead to the loss of billions in revenue for Georgia, whose lawmakers voted 92-78 to prohibit abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected - typically around the six-week stage - except for medical emergencies. 'We have many women working on productions in Georgia, whose rights, along with millions of others, will be severely restricted by this law,' Sarandos said in a statement. 'It's why we will work with the ACLU and others to fight it in court. Given the legislation has not yet been implemented, we'll continue to film there while also supporting partners and artists who choose not to. 'Should it ever come into effect, we'd rethink our entire investment in Georgia.' Georgia remains a vital production hub for film and TV industries, and in addition to Netflix, acts as the backdrop for AMC behemoth The Walking Dead. The popular Stranger Things series has also used Jackson, Georgia as the location for filming The popular Stranger Things series has also used Jackson, Georgia as the location for filming The region - playfully coined 'Y'allywood' - is responsible for more than 92,100 jobs and nearly $4.6 billion in total wages in the state, according to the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). State officials said that for the fiscal year ending June 30 film and TV production generated some $2.7 billion in direct spending. The bill comes as part of a multi-state effort to have the U.S. Supreme Court reconsider a woman's constitutional right to an abortion. Legislation to restrict abortion rights has been introduced in 16 states this year, four of whose governors have signed bills banning abortion if an embryonic heartbeat can be detected. The bill is expected to face legal challenges, with a similar bill in Mississippi recently struck down in court. Georgia remains a vital production hub for film and TV industries, and in addition to Netflix, acts as the backdrop for AMC behemoth The Walking Dead Georgia's controversial ban - along with new anti-abortion bans in Alabama and Missouri - is seen as part of the Republicans' effort to return the issue to the national stage and potentially force a Supreme Court challenge to Roe v. Wade, the 1973 ruling which enshrines abortion rights across the U.S. These decisions arrive as a growing number of prominent Hollywood figures such as the major producer David Simon, who helped create the acclaimed HBO series 'The Wire', as well as Alyssa Milano, the actor and vocal campaigner, call for a moratorium on producing films in Georgia. Both have advocated for a boycott to try to force the hand of a state that is home to a thriving film industry. That industry employs some 92,000 and generated $9.5 billion in 2018. 'I think this is one of the ways where we know we can hit a state where it hurts,' Morano said. In March, Milano wrote an open letter signed by 50 of her fellow actors, who pledged to do whatever they could to not film in Georgia. Alyssa Milano was another who called for a boycott of the Georgia film industry. That industry employs some 92,000 and generated $9.5 billion in 2018. 'I think this is one of the ways where we know we can hit a state where it hurts,' Morano said Other actors who signed the letter included Amy Schumer, Amber Tamblyn, Alec Baldwin, Don Cheadle, Rosie ODonnell, Patton Oswalt, Sarah Silverman, Essence Atkins, Uzo Aduba, Gabrielle Union, Christina Applegate, Ben Stiller, Sean Penn, David Cross, Mia Farrow, Colin Hanks and Bradley Whitford. Morano added that the more people who will take a stand against these laws could lead to the laws being changed. 'The best thing we can hope for is if everyone has a united stance and pulls the money out,' Morano added. 'Maybe we can have a quick reversal to these laws and then everyone gets what they want.' Director Ron Howard told The Hollywood Reporter last week that he still plans to shoot his new film Hillbilly Elegy in Georgia as planned, but if, 'this law go into effect in January, we will boycott the state as a production center.' Jason Bateman, whose Netflix drama series Ozark films in Georgia, has said that he will no longer work in Georgia if the law goes into effect, though Netflix has not yet commented. Despite the Hollywood opposition, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, one of the engine's behind the law's introduction, remained unmoved by the boycotts Jordan Peele and J.J. Abrams have also committed to donate all of their episodic fees for their upcoming show Lovecraft County to Fair Fight Georgia and the ACLU of Georgia. 'In a few weeks we start shooting our new show, Lovecraft Country and will do so standing shoulder to shoulder with the women of Georgia,' read their statement. Despite the Hollywood opposition, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, one of the engine's behind the law's introduction, remained unmoved by the boycotts. 'I understand that some folks don't like this new law. I'm fine with that,' he told the state's Republican convention during a speech last week. 'We're elected to do what's right and standing up for precious life is always the right thing to do.' Adding: 'We are the party of freedom and opportunity. We value and protect innocent life even though that makes C-list celebrities squawk.' The 47-year-old man charged with sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl after plying her with drugs then dumping her body outside a hospital where she died appeared in court on Tuesday for the first time. Carlos Rivera, 47, appeared before a judge in Lawrence, Massachusetts, on Tuesday to be arraigned on charges of sexually assaulting a minor and supplying cocaine. He is accused of sexually assaulting Chloe Ricard, 13, twice and giving her drugs then dropping her off at a hospital on May 20. Carlos Rivera, 47, appeared before a judge in Lawrence, Massachusetts, on Tuesday to be arraigned on charges of sexually assaulting a minor and supplying cocaine Chloe Ricard, 13, died within hours of being dropped off outside a hospital on May 20 He is also charged with sexually assaulting another girl who has not been named. Ricard died within hours. The cause of her death remains unclear. According to police, Chloe and the other girl had been at Rivera's apartment on May 19, the day before she died, and for most of the day on May 20. It is unclear how she came into contact with him. He was held without bail on Tuesday by a judge who deemed him too dangerous. A dangerousness hearing has been scheduled for June 4. Chloe's mother Deborah sobbed on her husband's shoulders in the courtroom. She said Chloe had been having a difficult time recovering from the death of her father five years ago and had fallen in with a bad crowd Chloe's family were in the courtroom for his arraignment but they gave no comment afterwards. They were seen wiping tears from their eyes during the proceedings. Ricard was with another girl under the age of 16 according to investigators. It's unclear how Rivera knows them but a source claimed he knew them before Sunday The family has planned a wake for her on Tuesday afternoon ahead of her private funeral. They say the last time they saw her alive was on May 19 when they dropped her off at a friend's house. That night, when she did not come home, they thought she had run away. A funeral home employee stands outside in the rain while the girl's family and friends gather for a wake on Tuesday Chloe's family and friends gathered on Tuesday before her funeral Two women outside the wake of Chloe Ricard on Tuesday The following day, they learned she had been taken to the hospital in cardiac arrest and 'kicked out' of the car by the man now identified as Rivera. Her family say she was a troubled teenager who had been struggling with the death of her father five years ago. They believe she was in 'the wrong place at the wrong time.' Mother Deborah Goldsmith-Dolan, and her husband Brian Dolan and family members depart following the wake for Chloe Stepfather Brian was later seen leaving the wake in Shewsbury Stepfather Brian Dolan told Boston 25 News: 'No pulse, no nothing, they just drove in and dropped her off. 'She didn't even have a pulse when they pushed her out of the car. The only thing I was told earlier from another agency is someone 47 years old dropped her off. 'Whoever did this to my little stepdaughter, trust me, I hope there's hell to pay because they threw her out of the car like a bag of trash. 'If that was your kid, if that was your sister, if that was your brother, or your mother, or your father, what would you do? I'm beside myself.' Rep. Justin Amash, the sole Republican to call for President Donald Trump's impeachment, attacked Attorney General William Barr and claimed he 'deliberately misrepresented key aspects' of special counsel Robert Mueller's report in order to help the president. In a lengthy thread of 25 tweets, Amash went through Barr's handling of Mueller's report, including the attorney general's original four-page letter summarizing the investigation and his decision not to charge Trump with obstruction of justice. 'Attorney General Barr has deliberately misrepresented key aspects of Muellers report and decisions in the investigation, which has helped further the presidents false narrative about the investigation,' Amash charged. Rep. Justin Amash claimed Attorney General William Barr 'deliberately misrepresented key aspects' of special counsel Robert Mueller's report Amash went after Attorney General William Barr in a lengthy, 25-tweet storm Democrats have made similar accusations against the attorney general. 'Barrs letter doesnt mention those issues when explaining why Mueller chose not to make a prosecutorial decision. He instead selectively quotes Mueller in a way that makes it sound - falsely - as if Muellers decision stemmed from legal/factual issues specific to Trumps actions,' Amash noted. 'But, in fact, Mueller finds considerable evidence that several of Trumps actions detailed in the report meet the elements of obstruction, and Muellers constitutional and prudential issues with indicting a sitting president would preclude indictment regardless of what he found,' the Republican from Michigan continued. Other Trump critics retweeted Amash's argument, including George Conway, the husband of White House counselor Kellyanne Conway. Amash accused Barr of 'selectively' quoting Mueller's report to make it sound as if the analysis from the special counsel jives with his reasoning. 'In noting why Barr thought the presidents intent in impeding the investigation was insufficient to establish obstruction, Barr selectively quotes Mueller to make it sound as if his analysis was much closer to Barrs analysis than it actually was,' he wrote. 'Barr quotes Mueller saying the evidence didnt establish that Trump was personally involved in crimes related to Russian election interference, and Barr then claims that Mueller found that fact relevant to whether the president had the intent to obstruct justice,' he noted. But, he adds, 'Muellers quote is taken from a section in which he describes other improper motives Trump could have had and notes: The injury to the integrity of the justice system is the same regardless of whether a person committed an underlying wrong. None of that is in Barrs letter.' Then Amash accused the attorney general of misleading Congress and the public - an argument Democrats have also made. 'As a result of Barrs March 24 letter, the public and Congress were misled. Mueller himself notes this in a March 27 letter to Barr, saying that Barrs letter did not fully capture the context, nature, and substance of this Offices work and conclusions,"' he tweeted. He goes on to note Mueller himself requested Barr release the report's introduction and executive summary, which the attorney general declined to do. Amash also charged Barr with sewing more seeds of confusion with his congressional testimony. 'He allowed the confusion to fester and only released the materials three weeks later with the full redacted report. In the interim, Barr testified before a House committee and was misleading about his knowledge of Muellers concerns,' he noted. 'Muellers report describes concerning contacts between members of Trumps campaign and people in or connected to the Russian government,' Amash stated. He specifically cites the infamous June 2016 Trump Tower meeting where Donald Trump Jr., Jared Kushner, and then Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort met with a Russian lawyer with ties to the Kremlin who claimed to have dirt on Hillary Clinton. 'Its wrong to suggest that the fact that Mueller did not choose to indict anyone for this means there wasnt a basis to investigate whether it amounted to a crime or collusion, or whether it was in fact part of Russias efforts to help Trumps candidacy,' he wrote. Amash also pushes back against Barr's assertion that 'Mueller never sought or pushed to get more from the president,' noting that 'the report says Mueller unsuccessfully sought an interview with the president for over a year.' 'The president instead gave written answers to questions submitted by the special counsel. Those answers are often incomplete or unresponsive. Mueller found them inadequate and again sought to interview the president,' Amash tweeted. The lawmaker ended his lengthy Twitter rant with a call for the 'truth.' 'Barr has so far successfully used his position to sell the presidents false narrative to the American people. This will continue if those who have read the report do not start pushing back on his misrepresentations and share the truth,' he wrote. President Donald Trump said earlier this month that Rep. Justin Amash has been 'a loser for a long time' Amash's tirade comes ahead of a town hall meeting he'll hold in Grand Rapids on Tuesday evening - the first time he's faced voters in his district since he called for Trump's impeachment. It's also a move that earned him the fury of the president and a primary opponent. 'I've known him and he's been against Trump from the beginning,' Trump told reporters on the South Lawn earlier this month before he left for a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. 'He probably wants to run for some other office. I don't think he'll do well. He's been a loser for a long time. Rarely votes for Republicans and, you know, personally I think he's not much,' he added. Now Amash faces a Republican primary bid from Jim Lower, a Michigan state legislator who described himself as a 'pro-Trump, pro-life, pro-jobs, pro-Second Amendment, pro-family values Republican.' Donald Trump launched a fresh attack on Joe Biden after landing from Japan Tuesday - dismissing claims he had sided with Kim Jong-un by calling Obama's VP 'low IQ' and saying the North Korean dictator actually called the Democrat an 'idiot.' Trump used Twitter to say he had been 'sticking up for Sleepy Joe Biden' when he spoke derisively about the 2020 candidate while in Japan and soft-pedaled U.S. criticisms of North Korean despot Kim Jong-un. 'I was actually sticking up for Sleepy Joe Biden while on foreign soil,' Trump tweeted, about four hours after arriving back at the White House with his wife Melania. 'Kim Jong Un called him a "low IQ idiot," and many other things, whereas I related the quote of Chairman Kim as a much softer "low IQ individual." Who could possibly be upset with that?' Biden, however, was upset by the Memorial Day attack and notably waited until the president was back on American soil before firing back, underscoring an attempt to stake out moral high ground by not criticizing a sitting commander-in-chief while he conducts foreign policy. 'The President's comments are beneath the dignity of the office,' Biden deputy campaign manager Kate Bedingfield said in a statement. Biden was appearing Tuesday at a Texas town hall organized the American Federation of Teachers labor union, after vanishing from the campaign trail for ten days in favor of private fundraisers with well-heeled donors. Just landed: Trump tweeted from the White House a few hours after he got back from Japan to go after Biden and those who criticized him for not following the tradition that political disputes stop at the U.S. border Former Vice President and front-running Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden waited on Tuesday until President Donald Trump was back on U.S. soil to slam him for a series of insults during his state visit to Tokyo President Trump, pictured returning to the White House on Tuesday, publicly mocked Biden as a 'low IQ individual' during a joint press conference on Monday with Japan's prime minister Trump has opened up relations with North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un, a move that Team Biden was quick to slam as unpresidential and unpatriotic Trump said Monday during a joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe that 'Kim Jong-un made a statement that Joe Biden is a low-IQ individual. He probably is, based on his record. I think I agree with him on that,' Bedingfield framed Trump's comments as unpatriotic. 'To be on foreign soil, on Memorial Day, and to side repeatedly with a murderous dictator against a fellow American and former Vice President speaks for itself,' she said. 'And it's part of a pattern of embracing autocrats at the expense of our institutions whether taking Putin's word at face value in Helsinki or exchanging 'love letters' with Kim Jong Un.'' Trump also ripped Biden on Monday for the 'horrible' Iran nuclear deal that the Obama administration negotiated with a group of allies. 'Joe Biden was a disaster,' he told reporters. 'His administration, with President Obama, they were basically a disaster when it came to so many things, whether it was economy, whether it was military, defense. No matter what it was, they had a lot of problems. So I'm not a fan,' he said. Trump recalled that the Iran deal, originally intended to prevent the Islamist nation from constructing a nuclear bomb, provided a path for the country to bide its time and build one in the long term. 'If you look at the deal that Biden and President Obama signed, they would have access free access to nuclear weapons, where they wouldnt even be in violation, in just a very short period of time. What kind of a deal is that?' he asked. The president continues to defend his decision to thaw the icy wall that has existed between Pyongyang and Washington since the 1953 armistice agreement that ended the Korean War. 'Kim Jong-un understands the unbelievable economic potential that country has,' he said Monday. 'Its located between Russia and China, on one side, and South Korea on the other, and its all waterfront property.' 'Its a great location, as we used to say in the real estate business. And I think he sees that.' Trump's slap at Biden as a 'low IQ individual' on Monday was a reference to an insult North Korea had used in an unsigned editorial published by a state-run news agency Saturday's tweets: How Trump went after Biden and soft-pedaled on Kim while in Japan Abe praised Trump on Monday for adopting a 'new approach' to North Korea that promises to mainstream the hermit nation to some extent in the region. 'President Trump cracked open the shell of this trust with Chairman Kim Jong-un,' he said, announcing that he would like his own sit-down with the dictator. New York Republican Rep. Peter King was one of few conservatives to castigate Trump for campaigning against Biden during a foreign policy trip Trump's reference to Kim's assessment of Biden's mental faculties was a nod to an editorial published by North Korea's state-run Korean Central News Agency. The unsigned column leveled a series of insults at Biden, including concluding that he has a 'low IQ.' Fox News Channel commentator Howard Kurtz and New York Republican Rep. Peter King were among a handful of conservative voices that took Trump to task for campaigning against Biden while he was overseas on taxpayers' dime. 'Wrong for @POTUS Trump to criticize @JoeBiden in Japan and to agree with Kim Jong-un. Politics stops at waters edge,' King tweeted Monday. 'Never right to side with murderous dictator vs. fellow American.' Kurtz said Monday that 'embracing ... what a murderous North Korean dictator had to say about Joe Biden and then doubling down in the news conference' was inappropriate. 'I think that crossed a bright red line even for a president who delights in shattering political norms,' Kurtz said. A Utah high school has launched an investigation after footage showed a female teacher's aide sitting on a male student's lap in class. Footage recorded by a student on Friday at Granger High School in West Valley City, shows a teacher's aide sitting on a male students lap as she uses a computer in the classroom. The woman in the footage is a teacher's aide which is not a licensed position. She has been employed at Granger High since the beginning of the year as an hourly employee, KUTV reported. A Utah high school has launched an investigation after footage showed a female teacher's aide sitting on a male student's lap in class, (pictured) A student who is in the same year but was not in class at the time of the incident described her behavior as sickening. The student, who didn't want to be identified, said: 'The teacher was sitting on a student's lap on her computer, she acts like she really doesn't care. 'I don't think she was innocent at all doing it. It's just very disruptive, and how can she even do that? It's very sickening.' The woman in the footage is a teacher's aide which is not a licensed position. She has not returned to work since the incident was reported on Friday A Granite School District spokesperson said they are investigating a possible breach of the school's policy A Granite School District spokesperson said they are investigating a possible breach of the school's policy. It is not known what her motivation was for sitting on the student's lap. She has not yet been charged with a policy violation or with a crime and as a result her identity is not being revealed by the school. In a statement given to KUTV the school said: 'This employee is an hourly aide who works with students in our credit recovery program (assisting the teacher who oversees this program). 'She has been employed at the school since the beginning of the school year..' They claimed that a parent had initially reported the video to the school administration on Friday. The spokesman added: 'The employee has not been to work since it was reported. The video speaks for itself and we anticipate taking appropriate action as soon as our investigation is complete.' A Pennsylvania teen was left fuming after his 'Trump Make America Great Again' cap was blurred out in a photograph used in his school's yearbook. Jeremy Gebhart, 16, and his friend wore red hats with the 45th president's name on it for Littlestown High School's spirit week last October. But when the yearbook was printed the student discovered that the motif with the slogan Donald Trump brought back to popularity during his 2016 election campaign had been edited out. 'We were like they blurred our hats out!' Gebhart told Fox 43. Adding: 'I just think that whoever did this doesnt like Trump.' Jeremy Gebhart, 16, wore red MAGA hat with the 45th president's name on it for Littlestown High School's spirit week last October The teen and his friend notice something was different about their caps and he told Fox: 'We were like they blurred our hats out!' 'I just think he wants to help our country and I think he is. Everybody has a first amendment right to have freedom of speech, and they're allowed to think what they want, say what they want, but they're not able to take it away from other people.' The child's mother is also furious that the logos were erased in the picture. Although her son isn't old enough to vote, the mother says she was 'infuriated' because he was simply showing support for the American leader in his way. The mother points out that wearing a MAGA cap is 'not doing anything illegal'. 'It's very upsetting, someone did this on purpose to blur out that Trump logo and make their own statement,' Lorraine said. 'It is OK to disagree with peoples' views but what's not OK is taking your freedom of speech and using it to take away someone else's.' Gebhart said about the president: 'I just think he wants to help our country and I think he is' Gebhart's school said sorry for the image editing but put it down to a slip-up. They said an investigation is underway. 'I am aware of the yearbook situation and a mistake was made. The mistake was not noticed during the editorial preview process prior to print,' superintendent Christopher E. Bigger told Fox. 'We apologize on behalf of the yearbook club. It is not the policy or practice of the district to improperly censor speech. Please understand we are working with young adults who are practicing to become citizens and what a better place to do so than in a school setting. 'We must find a way to have civil discourse around emotionally charged issues with students where the facts are understood and the opportunity to learn is available.' It's not the first time the a student has felt victimized for showing their support for Trump. In March, Florida teen Gunnar Johansson accused a school aide of yanking off his MAGA hat. His mother Lorraine said: 'It is OK to disagree with peoples' views but what's not OK is taking your freedom of speech and using it to take away someone else's' Gebhart is pictured in 2017. His mother said wearing a MAGA cap is 'not doing anything illegal' David Kelly, chief global strategist with JPMorgan Funds The fact that Millennials are having fewer children than older generations is posing a serious challenge to the U.S. economy, according to a recent report. By delaying marriage and having children, Millennials are setting the economy up for a potential slowdown particularly in the housing and auto markets, said David Kelly, chief global strategist with JPMorgan Funds, and author of the report. 'Forming a new household or growing a household is a driver of the economy,' he told DailyMail.com. 'It forces people into making (financial) decisions they may not otherwise make. And the fact that they're not making those decisions is sapping energy out of the economy.' Kelly projects Gross Domestic Product will slow down to a pace of 2 percent growth later on this year, down from the current 3.2 percent year-on-year trend. The GDP is a measure of the value of all goods and services produced in a nation and is a metric used by economists to gauge how robust the economy is at any given time. The proportion of young Americans who own homes has declined since the 1980s and 1990s, particularly following the Great Recession of 2008. Source: Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System 'There's a slowdown emerging already,' Kelly said, noting that the number of babies born in America in 2018 fewer than 3.8 million was the lowest in 32 years. 'We have a people problem,' Kelly said. 'Unless we get more workers and more babies we're not going to have the supply and demand necessary to generate GDP growth.' The report notes that many Millennials carry significant student loan debt, making it harder for them to afford a home or get a good mortgage rate when they do decide to buy. Median net worth among people age 25-35 years old was $18,200 in 2016, compared to $31,273 in 1995, according to data from the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. The decline in wealth accumulation for that age group followed the Great Recession of 2008, when many Millennials were graduating from college, seeking jobs, or expected to be in prime earning years with steady employment. The setbacks of that era are still haunting the generation, which has only seen a slow recovery in their earning potential and savings since that time. Adding to the burden is a growing national debt that will eventually have to be addressed by the Millennial generation likely through cuts to Social Security and Medicare, or increased taxes. Fertility rate for white women plummets BELOW the limit needed to maintain the population in every single U.S. state Fertility rates for white women were down in every U.S. state in 2017 - below the rate needed for the population to replace itself, a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals. However, among black and Hispanic women, fertility rates were up in 12 and 29 states, respectively. When researchers looked at fertility rates for women of all age groups and races, they found that the nationwide rate was 16 percent lower than what is considered the level for a population to replace itself. Experts say this is likely due to the fact that the large proportion of native-born women are having fewer children than before, while the much smaller proportion of immigrant-born women are having more children. Additionally, the U.S. white population has been hit hard by the Great Recession of 2008, and is aging. Demographers and public policy experts say if the rate continues to decline, there will not be enough healthy, young workers to keep the economy going and replace an aging population. Advertisement Millennials are also the most diverse generation in American history, with about 44 percent identifying as a racial or ethnic minority compared to 25 percent of individuals age 21-36 in 1985. That could be a factor in their retirement, as minorities consistently tend to accumulate less wealth than their white counterparts even when comparing groups of similar ages, incomes, education and marital status. Overall, investors are not prepared for the resulting economic shift, Kelly said. 'I think the problem is that investors are positioned to invest in companies that can only thrive in a fast-growing environment,' he said. 'We need to adapt to a world of slow growth and the companies that can adapt to slow growth should do better.' 'You need companies and ideas that are going to build new markets or quickly gain market share,' he added. 'If the tide isn't rising you need a special kind of boat.' That means looking to invest outside of the traditional cyclical sectors of housing and auto markets and taking an eye to areas such as artificial intelligence that promise consistent, if slow, growth. The biggest risk, Kelly said, is ignoring the rapidly approaching economic shift. He warns that U.S. politicians are being short-sighted as they focus on so-called America-first issues. 'I think our political system is not really well positioned to deal with this,' he said. 'I think we're having old arguments about America's position in the world and whether other countries are stealing our jobs or our wealth. I think that's not the point. If labor is scarce we need to make sure that labor is educated.' 'The United States needs a more international posture at the very time it seems to be retreating to a nationalistic one,' he added. A rare single-seat aircraft was found abandoned with $500,000 worth of drugs near the Mexico-United States border last Thursday. U.S. Customs and Border Protection [CBP] agents found the modified ultralight plane on a improvised dirt-filled landing spot south of the Tuscon station in Arizona. Border Patrol officers commanding the Nogales and Tuscon stations were alerted by the Air and Marine Operations after it detected the suspicious aircraft at about 11pm local time. Border Patrol agents confiscated a modified aircraft May 23 after was detected illegally entering U.S. air space from Mexico near the border in Tuscon, Arizona Canine unit assigned to the Border Patrol detected 142 pounds of methamphetamine and over 200 grams of fentanyl with a street value of $500,000 According to a CBP press release, the immigration agents found two large plastic storage canisters attached to the aircraft's fuselage. Border Patrol canine units inspected the aircraft and discovered numerous methamphetamine packages inside the containers. Agents took the drugs and aircraft to the Nogales Border Patrol Station and confirmed that the packages contained over 143 pounds of methamphetamine and more than 200 grams of fentanyl. The person operating the aircraft was not located following a helicopter search led by the Air and Marine Operations. A spokesperson for the CBP told DailyMail that there have been 'numerous attempts by ultralight aircraft in the past' to smuggle drugs across the border. Two Utah high school students have been disciplined after they appeared in blackface in a racist photo that spread across Snapchat and Twitter. The horrifying image shows one person, who has since been identified as an adult, wearing a white hood over their head meant to resemble the Ku Klux Klan uniform. He is holding the two students, who are on their knees, by the neck. Portions of their face have been painted black and they are all standing in front of a Confederate flag. 'N****r hunting 2019: I'm glad I could fill my tags this year,' the caption reads. Two Utah high school students have been disciplined after they appeared in blackface in a racist photo that spread across Snapchat and Twitter The two teens have been identified as students of Hurricane High School. The third person has been identified as a 'non-student' adult. Washington County School District called the photo, which came to light on May 16 'repulsive' and said 'appropriate discipline' for the students 'began immediately'. 'Words of disgust and sadness are insufficient to describe our feelings regarding the image,' spokesman Steven Dunham said in a statement. 'This repulsive photo does not represent the concern, love and care of Washington County School District.' Dunham said the photo was not taken on school grounds or during school hours but added that it 'does not minimize minimize our abhorrence of this racist act'. 'No level of discipline can repair the hate, bigotry and ugliness portrayed in that one picture,' he continued. 'The vulgar ignorance and idiocy on display are beyond repair by any small discipline we can provide.' Dunham said the school has since passed on the photo to the Hurricane City Police Department. Hurricane Police Department confirmed it had been made aware of the 'racially insensitive social media post' and that the incident was being investigated 'We have welcomed officials from local and federal law enforcement to review the offending photo for potential criminal violations,' he wrote. 'We are also consulting with legal counsel as we consider additional administrative actions.' Hurricane Police Department confirmed it had been made aware of the 'racially insensitive social media post' and that the incident was being investigated. 'If you have seen this post PLEASE DO NOT share or retweet, by doing so all you are doing is helping spread this hurtful message further,' it added. 'Hurricane PD does not condone this type of message but we are also aware of individuals right to free speech. At the conclusion of the investigation the appropriate action will be taken.' Dunham said the district plans to continue to teach 'love, kindness, inclusion' and 'respect for the fellow human beings that share our neighborhoods, our communities, and the hallways in our schools'. 'We will remind students that there is absolutely no room for the intolerance, and hatred displayed in this image,' he added. 'Finally, as district administrators, we are considering what education would be helpful for students to understand the significance of civil rights protections and violations, as well as appropriate use of social media.' The two teens have been identified as students of Hurricane High School (pictured). Washington County School District said 'appropriate discipline began immediately' Dunham noted that the two students did not represent 'the views of the nearly 32,000 students, nor of the staff and teachers in our schools throughout Washington County School District'. 'While we are sickened by this photo, we will move forward with love as we further educate our students,' he concluded. Hurricane High School junior Abbie Hermansen said she found the image to be 'just cruel'. 'People that do stuff like this, all they want is attention,' she told ABC4. Hermansen said that while she wanted to share the photo to raise awareness, she was worried that doing so would be giving them that exact attention. 'You want to get the word out to say, "This is unacceptable and shouldn't be happening," but then you're giving them exactly what they want,' she added. The scandal comes just a year after another Hurricane High School student posted a photo of herself with a noose around her neck on Martin Luther King Jr Day. Her caption read: 'Happy nation n****r day'. Islamic State claims that it is responsible for wildfires, saying its militants targeted 'apostates' in Iraq and Syria. The terror group says that the fires are 'just the beginning' and brags that 'tons of crops' have been destroyed. In its weekly al-Naba news bulletin, the jihadist organisation encouraged other extremists to use arson as a weapon of war this summer. These satellite images show how fire hit Aleppo and Homs in Syria. Islamic State is claiming responsibility for fires in that country as well as in Iraq Yesterday Iraq's Civil Defence Directorate said that 6,103 acres were burned across 136 farms in fewer than three weeks. Blazes hit 11 provinces, with the most affected being areas already under target from ISIS. The Islamists have been kidnapping and murdering inhabitants of Salahuddin, Nineveh, Kirkuk and Diyala as part of a guerrilla campaign, HS Today reports, which have all been hit by fires. This graphic shows the fires that have raged across Iraq as Islamic State claims it is using arson as a weapon Their claim to be behind the fires come after Middle East Research Institute fellow Kamaran Palani tweeted that militants had threatened villagers in Palani with grain fields being set alight. 'The men don't sleep at night defending the village & the women come back to the village during the day,' he said on May 21. Syrian farmers have also blamed Islamic State for fires in the city of Deir ez-Zur. Back in November the group claimed California wildfires were 'punishment of bombing Muslims in Syria' and warned: 'You will see more fires.' But their endorsement of arson stretches further back, as in January 2017 its Rumiyah magazine said 'incendiary attacks have played a significant role in modern and guerrilla warfare, as well as in 'lone wolf' terrorism'. The jihadist group (pictured, militants in 2014) has warned that fires in Iraq and Syria are just the beginning It suggested targets that included forest areas, dry bush and flammable substances as followers were encouraged to start fires while targets are sleeping. Al-Qaeda also has a tradition of promoting arson in a bid to start wildfires. In 2012 the group behind the September 11 attacks on New York spoke of the damage caused by fires in Montana that destroyed 70 house and 100 cars. 'Is it possible for us to cause a similar destructive impact using a similar weapon?' the group asked its members. 'The answer is: Yes, it is possible. Even in a shorter time and with much bigger destructive impact.' The comments appeared in a tutorial in the Inspire magazine, which also gave a detailed guide on home to construct an 'ember bomb'. Nigel Farage has lambasted Tory leadership candidates who claim they could renegotiate a better Brexit deal than the one tabled by Theresa May, saying it is 'absolute rubbish' to think the EU would change even 'one dot or comma'. The triumphant Brexit Party leader launched a round of media appearances on both sides of the Atlantic last night to capitalise on his European election successes. He turned his guns on Jeremy Hunt after the Foreign Secretary said No Deal would be 'political suicide', comments which sparked a toxic row among leadership wannabes. Mr Farage, who appeared on Tucker Carlson's Fox News show in the US and on his own LBC show from Brussels, dismissed suggestions that a new deal could be thrashed-out before Britain's departure day of October 31. 'Every single person here in the European Commission, and leading groups in the European Parliament, will not change by one dot or comma that withdrawal agreement,' Mr Farage said. Mr Hunt had warned that a PM intent on pursuing No Deal would be brought down by Parliament, prompting an election which the Tories could lose. But rival camps accused Mr Hunt of a U-turn after he previously argued the country would 'flourish and prosper' after Brexit even without a negotiated agreement. Nigel Farage (pictured left) has dismissed claims by Tory leadership contender Jeremy Hunt (right) that pursuing a No Deal Brexit would be 'political suicide' As the Tory leadership contest became increasingly acrimonious: Dominic Raab and Matt Hancock challenged their leadership rivals to sign up to a 'clean campaign' pledge; Rory Stewart publicly denied claims he was acting as a 'suicide bomber' to take out Boris Johnson with a series of outspoken attacks; Broadcasters attempted to bounce leadership candidates into TV debates by announcing plans for head-to-head battles apparently without the party's agreement; Former chief whip Mark Harper and former Brexit minister James Cleverly will join the race this week taking the number of contenders to an astonishing 12; It emerged that an online campaign to get Mr Johnson into the final run-off was being run by a prominent political blogger; Theresa May warned that a No Deal Brexit would not be 'best for the UK' as she arrived at a summit in Brussels; Commons Speaker John Bercow said that MPs in Parliament would inevitably 'have their say' on whether they wanted the country to leave without an agreement. On Fox News last night, Mr Farage vowed: 'If we do not leave the European Union on October 31, I will lead the Brexit Party after that into the next general election and we will sweep away parties that have dominated British politics for over 100 years.' Earlier Mr Farage waded directly into the Tory race during his LBC show, which he hosted from Brussels where Mrs May was meeting EU leaders. After dismissing the suggestion of renegotiation by October 31, he added: 'The truth of it is, if a Parliament tried to stop a Prime Minister leaving on that date and he ran a general election campaign on a No Deal, he actually would win a massive majority in the House of Commons.' Mr Farage also slammed Mr Hunt for proposing a new UK negotiating team which would not include members of the Brexit Party. Some Tory leadership candidates including Boris Johnson (pictured) have reacted to the party's mauling at the European elections by vowing to leave the EU without a deal if necessary Sajid Javid's police officer pledge Sajid Javid last night vowed to recruit 20,000 extra police officers if he becomes prime minister. The Home Secretary said he would spend 1billion over three years to put bobbies on the beat 'in every corner of the country'. Mr Javid, who is standing in the Tory leadership race, said his recruitment drive would end the 'culture of impunity' enjoyed by criminals. He also contradicted Theresa May, who has repeatedly denied that police had cuts are to blame for the rise in serious violence. 'More police on the beat means less crime on our streets,' he wrote in an article for The Sun. 'Not exactly rocket science is it? 'But what's obvious in towns and cities across the country is not quite as clear cut in the rarefied corridors of Westminster and Whitehall - and it's time for that to change.' He added: 'I would make police numbers a top priority. And continue work to peel back layers of bureaucracy. 'That means 20,000 more coppers. Not sat behind desks, but pounding the pavements. 'It's what the police want, it's what the public wants, and it's what I will deliver. 'I want to see a return to bobbies on the beat in every corner of the country.' Advertisement After declaring victory in the early hours of Monday Mr Farage had demanded that his victorious party be allowed to take part in talks with Brussels. Speaking about Mr Hunt today he said: 'He's also pledging to create a new UK negotiating team - I wonder where he got that idea from? 'That's going to include some new members of the Conservative party and the DUP, but absolutely no mention of course of the offer I made on behalf of the Brexit Party. 'I just don't think that Jeremy Hunt and others in Westminster have listened and understood the implications for their party of what happened to them on Sunday night.' Speaking to one listener who called to blast the Tories, Mr Farage said: 'I'm going to invite Jeremy Hunt to come into the studio one Sunday morning. We'll get him to take some calls and get him to understand what the mood of people like you is.' In a round of interviews yesterday, Mr Hunt said the Conservatives would be committing 'political suicide' if they tried to force a No Deal Brexit. He said a PM intent on forcing No Deal would be brought down by Parliament. That could force a general election which Mr Hunt said could put Jeremy Corbyn in Downing Street. 'I think we have to be careful about saying we will definitely leave the EU on a fixed date deal or no deal,' he said. 'The risk of that is Parliament might try to stop a No Deal Brexit, as they have done, and we would be pushed into a general election.' Mr Hunt said it was important to 'find a different way to get a deal', adding 'we have to have a go at this'. He added: 'The only solution to the extremely difficult situation we're in - and I don't want to pretend that there's an easy way through this - is to change the Withdrawal Agreement.' Jeremy Hunt (left) has clashed with Esther McVey (right) over the prospect of a No Deal Brexit in the first sign of open conflict between Tory leadership rivals Defending the Brexit Party's absence from a possible negotiating team, he said Mr Farage was not in Parliament and did not want a deal. But leadership rival Esther McVey fired back at his 'political suicide' comments, saying: 'Political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU and not leaving on October 31.' And a source on another leadership campaign said: 'It is pretty extraordinary. 'Jeremy Hunt has had more positions on Brexit than Jeremy Corbyn he cannot make up his mind on whether he wants No Deal or to back Theresa May's deal. He cannot be trusted to lead the Tory Party.' The bitter row underlines the growing divide of the candidates in the race to succeed Mrs May. Tory leadership contenders including (l-r) Andrea Leadsom and Dominic Raab were among those to issue dire warnings for the Conservative Party if it cannot sort out Brexit fast Some Tory leadership candidates have reacted to the party's mauling at the European elections by vowing to leave the EU without a deal if necessary. The Conservatives fell to a humiliating fifth place in the European elections, falling behind the Brexit Party, the Lib Dems, Labour and the Greens. Boris Johnson vowed to take Britain out of the EU on October 31, 'deal or no deal', if he is elected Tory leader. Mr Johnson, Andrea Leadsom, Dominic Raab and Miss McVey have all made clear they want the UK to get out of the EU at all costs by the end of October the next deadline set with Brussels. But International Development Secretary Mr Stewart, Health Secretary Mr Hancock and now Mr Hunt have warned against trying to force a No Deal departure. Mr Stewart has rejected claims he is 'running tactically' for the Tory leadership. After a journalist suggested some Tory MPs saw Mr Stewart as a 'suicide bomber' for Michael Gove, the International Development Secretary replied: 'Putting aside the fact that your suicide metaphor sits a bit awkwardly for someone who was in Iraq and Afghanistan - I'm not running tactically - I am running on principle and because I believe we can unify this country and make it a much better place - why don't they debate me?' Other contenders have yet to spell out their positions, with Home Secretary Sajid Javid again dodging questions from reporters yesterday. Leadership rival Dominic Raab said he was focused on 'getting a fairer deal from the EU as we leave'. But outgoing European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker stressed 'there will be no renegotiation'. This map shows how the Brexit Party topped polls almost everywhere in England and Wales. The Tories did not come first in any council areas Raab and Hancock: Let's have a clean fight Dominic Raab and Matt Hancock have challenged their leadership rivals to sign up to a 'clean campaign' pledge. As the race to succeed Theresa May heats up, the pair have asked their leadership rivals to commit to not 'speaking ill of fellow Conservatives'. The pledge also asks that their campaign teams will abide by spending limits, 'not engage in personality attacks' on others and not allow third parties to pay for online advertising that supports their candidacy. The hopefuls are being asked to encourage their 'supporters to keep their campaigning clean particularly on social media'. Mr Hancock said last night: 'We shouldn't hold back when it comes to debating ideas, but this contest should be about policies not personalities.' And Mr Raab added: 'This campaign should be about a battle of ideas not of personalities. That is why I have signed the Clean Campaign Pledge, and would urge all the other leadership contenders to do the same.' He said: 'Whoever wins this election needs to bring the party back together so that we can take on and defeat Jeremy Corbyn. Fighting a clean campaign is essential if we want to unite our party again.' It emerged yesterday that a website has been set up by the founder of political website Guido Fawkes in support of Boris Johnson's leadership bid. Advertisement Mr Gove last night signalled that he would not support a No Deal either as he warned that any scenario which ended in a general election risked Brexit being cancelled altogether. He said: 'We must leave the EU before we have an election. Otherwise we will be punished at the ballot box, Corbyn will be in Number 10 propped up by the SNP, and Brexit may well be reversed altogether.' Kit Malthouse yesterday became the tenth Tory MP to declare they will stand. The housing minister admitted he was an outsider but said there was 'a hunger for someone new' in No 10. Former Tory chief whip Mr Harper, who has been mulling a run for the top job for the past few days, has told friends he will announce his candidacy this week. Meanwhile, Brexit minister Mr Cleverly is thought to also be preparing to throw his hat in the ring. On his show Mr Farage also renewed his fury at Remainer claims that pro-EU parties had collectively done better than Brexiteers at the European elections. The Lib Dems, Greens, Change UK and Scottish and Welsh nationalists won more votes between them than the combined efforts of the Brexit Party and Ukip. But that sum fails to take account of the pro-Brexit Tories. If they are included in the Brexit column, pro-Leave parties were stronger overall. Moreover, Mr Farage's movement won far more votes and seats than any other individual party. On his show Mr Farage held up a Lib Dem leaflet from before polling day in which Labour and the Tories were named as pro-Brexit parties. 'In their leaflets they tell you - the Conservative and Labour parties were choices for a form of Brexit,' he said. 'That shows you some of the trickery that was going on.' Some Remainers have argued that the results show a combined pro-EU vote running ahead of the pro-Brexit vote Mr Farage gave his own interpretation of the results as he tackled the claims that were being circulated by Remainers on social media Corbyn 'will announce Labour backing for second referendum within days' Jeremy Corbyn could announce Labour's backing for a second referendum within days, it has been claimed. The party leader has faced huge pressure to commit to a more decisive line on Brexit since his party was thrashed at the European elections last week. Labour fell to an embarrassing third place behind the Liberal Democrats, who took a much more avowedly pro-Europe position - prompting calls for Mr Corbyn to back a new public vote. Now senior Labour figures have said he is poised to back a second referendum, the Mirror reported. One shadow Cabinet minister said a decisive move would 'give our membership confidence again that they can get back on the doorstep'. Jeremy Corbyn (pictured outside his London home) could announce Labour's backing for a second referendum within days, it has been claimed John Bercow (pictured in the U.S. on Tuesday) said it was not 'sensible to vacate the chair' while the 'momentous events' of Brexit were taking place Bercow will continue as Commons Speaker John Bercow has revealed he will stay on as Speaker of the House of Commons, denying claims he was set to quit this summer. Mr Bercow said it was not 'sensible to vacate the chair' while the 'momentous events' of Brexit were taking place. The former Tory MP, who took the job in 2009 and initially promised to step down by 2018, rejected claims he would go in July, the Guardian reported. He has frequently clashed with Tory MPs who have accused him of 'making it up as he goes along' in a series of controversial rulings over Brexit procedure. Earlier he insisted MPs would have a say over a No Deal Brexit, saying it was 'unimaginable' that Britain would crash out without Parliament influencing events. 'The House will want to have its say, and the idea that the House won't have its say is just for the birds,' he said. Some Tory leadership candidates have reacted to the party's mauling at the European elections by vowing to leave the EU without a deal if necessary. The default position is that Britain will leave on October 31 and it is unclear whether Parliament could stop a Prime Minister intent on pursuing No Deal, but Commons rules have proven flexible in recent months. Speaking to the Brookings Institution in Washington, Mr Bercow said: 'The appetite of the House to have its say has recently been whetted and that appetite is not exhausted, indeed some would say it's voracious. 'As to where we go from here, my own view is that we have to see who emerges as the next Prime Minister. 'Parliament is a big player in this. The idea that Parliament is going to be evacuated from the centre stage of debate on Brexit is unimaginable. It is simply unimaginable.' Current law states that the UK will leave on October 31 so Parliament may have to defy the new PM's wishes and change the law to force another postponement if Britain is heading for No Deal. In April, rebel MPs did succeed in passing a law which mandated Theresa May to ask Brussels for an extension. But the remaining EU member states still have to agree a delay, meaning Parliament could not change the Brexit date by itself even if it passed another law. The Commons could also pass a resolution rejecting No Deal, which would apply huge political pressure to the PM but would not legally bind them. Alternatively, MPs could bring the Government down with a motion of no confidence, but this might not allow time to change the exit date. Asked whether a PM committed to No Deal could force it through, Mr Bercow said: 'My reading of the situation is that legally the default position in the absence of an agreement is Brexit on October 31. 'There can, however, be a difference between what the law says and what political movements between now and then decrees. 'I'm not saying that Brexit without a deal will happen and I'm not saying that it definitely won't. I am saying that Parliament and individual parliamentarians will have strong views about these matters. 'There is a difference between a legal default position and what the interplay of political forces in Parliament will facilitate.' 'The idea that there is an inevitablity of a No Deal Brexit would be a quite wrong suggestion. There is no inevitability whatsoever about that.' Advertisement Mr Corbyn has toed a careful line on a second vote, concerned that Labour would be wiped out in its former northern heartlands if it was seen to be sabotaging Brexit. He has demanded a general election and spoken only vaguely of keeping a second referendum on the table. But his position has come under fierce scrutiny after Labour's embarrassment at the European polls. Labour finished behind the Liberal Democrats in pro-Remain London - including in the party leader's own Islington backyard. After the results came in Mr Corbyn inched closer than ever before to backing a so-called People's Vote, saying any Brexit deal 'has to be put to a public vote'. Pro-EU MPs Wes Streeting and Ben Bradshaw both spoke of difficult doorstep experiences as Labour was derided for its equivocal position on Brexit. Yesterday shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott insisted Labour was moving towards a 'clearer line' on Brexit. Ms Abbott said there was 'no inherent contradiction' between respecting the result of the 2016 referendum and having another poll. 'I've always argued that it's perfectly possible that Leave would win again but we're supporting a People's Vote strongly now because it's the right thing to do and it's the democratic thing to do,' she said. She went on: 'Our position is that ideally we want a general election - if we can't get a general election in time, we would support a People's Vote.' Deputy leader Tom Watson has also backed a second referendum, saying: 'We've lost many hundreds of thousands, if not millions of potential votes in that election because we got it wrong.' He told the BBC: 'The time is now to show some humility, to listen and to move very, very quickly.' And former prime minister Tony Blair said he had voted Labour 'without great enthusiasm' as he too pushed for the party to throw its weight behind a referendum. He said Mr Corbyn 'has got to come to a clear position', telling Sky News: 'The one that is very obvious is that both party leaderships have made the same mistake, which is to think that it's possible to sit on the fence on Europe and appeal to both sides. 'What the European elections show you is that isn't possible.' However union boss Len McCluskey has urged Labour to stick to its current position and try to bring Leavers and Remainers together. The leader of the Unite union has urged Labour to stay united, ready to govern to 'transform the country' despite the party's poor showing in the Euro polls. 'The blame lies firmly with the Tory party which has handled the Brexit process disastrously causing despair and disillusion among voters driving many to (Nigel) Farage and his simplistic offer,' he said. 'Labour has been the only party that has sought to unite the nation on Brexit and this is an honourable objective that must not be abandoned. 'This is the time to hold our nerve because the true prize is the very real possibility of a looming general election. 'That is the opportunity for Labour to go to the people to present its programme to transform our country, rebuilding our communities and restoring hope to those who feel abandoned by Westminster. 'Faced now with the serious prospect of a no deal Tory prime minister, Labour must stay united and show the country that it is ready to lead.' Meanwhile the party was engulfed by a further row after Mr Blair's former spin doctor Alastair Campbell was thrown out of the party for supporting the Lib Dems. Alastair Campbell was yesterday expelled from Labour after he admitted he had not voted for the party for first time in his life, in disgust at the party's stance on Europe Speaking outside his north London home, Mr Campbell said he will appeal the expulsion and warned Labour faces 'oblivion' unless it clarifies its Brexit position. 'I think that there are people in Jeremy Corbyn's office, senior positions in Jeremy Corbyn's office, who have recommended voting against the Labour Party,' he said. 'You can interpret the rules in all sorts of different ways, but one thing I know is I'm not going to leave the party just because some random email comes in telling me that I've been expelled.' Mr Campbell, a key player in the New Labour era, declined to rule out shunning the party again in a snap general election and said it would 'depend' on its Brexit policy. He described his rapid expulsion as 'strange' and said 'people will inevitably draw the contrast with the lack of rapidity in dealing with cases involving anti-Semitism'. Labour rules say members who support a party other than Labour are automatically ineligible for membership. Humiliated Theresa May finally gets sympathy from the fellow European leaders who helped make Brexit impossible for her as she arrives in Brussels A humiliated Theresa May faced European leaders who spent months hardballing her over Brexit yesterday - as Nigel Farage revelled in his election triumph and told her the UK must leave by October 31 at the latest. She met a host of EU bigwigs including outgoing European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker in Brussels today for her last summit as Conservative leader. A grim-faced PM insisted she would keep fulfilling her 'obligations' despite being forced to announce her departure from Downing Street last week. But Mr Farage, who was also in Brussels for separate discussions, told reporters the next Tory leader should say the UK is leaving in October come what may, and give the EU five months to come to the table with a counter-offer. Theresa May was consoled by EU leaders including Jean-Claude Juncker (pictured) over her political demise yesterday as she attended a summit in Brussels Bolstered by the trouncing the Brexit Party inflicted on the Tories and Labour, securing an extraordinary 29 MEPs, he said: 'We give an ultimatum to Brussels rather than the other way round'. Arriving at her final summit as Tory leader Mrs May said the results were 'deeply disappointing' for her party and showed 'the importance of actually delivering on Brexit'. She said: 'I think the best way to do that is with a deal, but it will be for my successor and for Parliament to find a way forward to get a consensus and I hope those election results will focus Parliament on the need to deliver Brexit'. Mrs May is embraced by Dutch premier Mark Rutte while Belgian leader Charles Michel (right) looks on in Brussels Mrs May is in Brussels for what will be her last summit as Tory leader after she quit last Friday Eye to eye: Theresa May and European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker - who have previously clashed in Brussels summits - meet again in the Belgian capital Mrs May appeared to see the funny side as she filled in EU counterparts including Mark Rutte (centre) and Xavier Bettel (left) about the political disaster that has befallen her in the UK over recent weeks Mr Juncker revealed his first meeting was with Mrs May and said he was 'crystal clear' that Brexit talks are over with Britain, adding: 'There will be no renegotiation'. The premier has also met EU council president Donald Tusk, who is thought to have delivered a similar tough message. France and Germany appeared on a collision course over who should hold one of the European Union's most coveted jobs, after weekend elections across the 28-nation bloc redrew Europe's political map. Arriving in Brussels for an EU summit, French President Emmanuel Macron virtually ruled out the prospect of German politician Manfred Weber replacing Jean-Claude Juncker as the new president of the bloc's executive arm, the European Commission. There was even an embrace from Mr Rutte, who has been one of the European leaders most in the UK's corner during the negotiations Mrs May was hugged by a series of EU leaders as they seemingly voiced sympathy at her plight and the political difficulties that have laid her low A new video has emerged showing four-year-old Maleah Davis being wheeled out of an operating room following brain surgery mere weeks before her disappearance. The brief recording was sent by Maleah's mother, Brittany Bowens, to the station KTRK. It shows the toddler reclining in a hospital bed as she is being transported by nurses to her room in late March. Maleah Davis, 4, is pictured in late March being wheeled into a hospital room after undergoing a surgery on her brain. The video was shared with KTRK by her mother Maleah has her head bandaged up but is awake and alert. A large unicorn balloon is tethered to had hand She breaks into a smile after being cheered on by her relatives gathered in the room Maleah has her head bandaged up but is awake and alert. She is holding a giant unicorn balloon in her hand. She is greeted by a chorus of overjoyed relatives, one of whom calls her a 'pretty girl.' Maleah breaks into a smile as she gets a round of applause from her loved ones. The toddler had undergone multiple operations on her brain allegedly stemming from physical abuse. Weeks later, in early May, Bowens former fiance, Derion Vence, reported Maleah missing, saying shed been abducted after he pulled over on a Houston highway. Police later said the story didnt add up. After days of searching for the girl, police arrested Vence on a charge of tampering with evidence, specifically a human corpse. Authorities have not said he killed Maleah, but investigators found blood in Vences apartment and search dogs detected the scent of human decomposition in his car. Maleah's former stepfather, Derion Vence (left), has been charged with tampering with a corpse after blood was found in the car he said was stolen with the child (right) in it This photo shows the last time Maleah was seen alive, on April 30 as she and her stepfather, Vence, walked into the family's apartment together just before 8am At a press conference last week, Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo said evidence suggests that Maleah has been killed and appealed to the public's help in finding her body. He also said he believes Vence knows where the child is but has not told police. 'Maleah deserves to be found, be recovered and deserves a proper burial, and we need the community's help.' the chief said. Vence has not been charged with murdering the toddler. He claimed the youngster was abducted by three men who attacked him on the side of the highway on May 3. It was reported that she had vanished on May 4 near the Eastex Freeway and Greens Road in northeast Houston. Vence showed up at a hospital in Sugar Land making the claim they'd been attacked. Houston Police have increased reward money to $10,000 for the girl to be found The volunteers started working to find Davis around the area that Vence claimed they were attacked. The search moved to the southwest part of the city as Vence said he woke up on the Southwest Freeway with his two-year-old son 24 hours after being attacked. Their apartment was examined after May 3 surveillance footage showed Vence emerging carrying a black trash bag in a basket and what appeared to be a container of gasoline on the day of the alleged attack. Investigators found blood consistent with DNA on the child's toothbrush in the hallway and bathroom of the home. It's the last spot Davis was seen alive on April 30 but she was never spotted leaving after entering. Texas EquuSearch suspended their hunt May 8 due to flooding but when they resumed May 9, the car was discovered at a shopping center on Highway 6 in Missouri City. Dogs detected a scent of human decomposition in the vehicle. Men really are better than women at reading maps but only because of the toys they had as children, an expert on the brain claims. Playing with Lego or video games helps boys learn to think differently from girls, who tend to play with dolls. Professor Gina Rippon says it is a myth that mens and womens brains are inherently very different. She suggests any contrasts are due to the different experiences of growing up, not gender. Expert on the brain Professor Gina Rippon has claimed men are better than women at reading maps but only because of the toys they had as children The professor claimed that playing with Lego or video games helps boys learn to think differently from girls Although there are biological differences between mens and womens brains, variances could also be put down to gendered expectations and gendered experiences, she said. Professor Rippon told the Hay Festival: The issue of map-reading, which is kind of a manifestation of a spatial skill, is actually supposedly one area where theres a really robust difference. It does appear that on average men do have some better ability at spatial skills. But if you then track back their experience theyve had with Lego and video games, its much higher in boys and theyre much more encouraged with construction toys, for example. So its difficult to know if the adult difference is really a manifestation of perhaps a tiny biological difference at the beginning which has been magnified by a whole range of different experiences. Professor Rippon also added that it was a myth that mens and womens brains are inherently very different The scientist said that map-reading is supposedly one area where theres a really robust difference A professor of cognitive neuro-imaging at the Aston Brain Centre, Aston University, Birmingham, she says in her book The Gendered Brain that the map-reading stereotype needs updating. Professor Rippon added: Far from being the gold standard proof that female-male aptitude and ability differences are rooted and fixed in their different biologies, spatial cognition provides a detailed and ongoing case study of the power of the world to shape such individual skills. Last year, a study found that women from countries that have made greater strides towards equality in the work-place such as the UK, Australia and the US are better at navigating than those from countries where womens role in society is less advanced. Australia's most notorious serial killer Ivan Milat looked in the mirror and told himself he was innocent 100 times a day, according to a former prisons boss. Ron Woodham also said the convicted killer will never confess to murdering seven backpackers on the outskirts of Sydney in the 1990s. 'He has shown no remorse and I don't think he will ever tell the truth of what really happened,' the former NSW Corrective Services Commissioner told the Daily Telegraph. 'He looked in the mirror and told himself 100 times a day he was innocent. He's a grub.' It comes as Milat's grandson Adrian, the son of his only daughter Lynise, said he does not care if the killer dies. 'Better off dead anyway and save the taxpayer some dinero,' he told the Telegraph. A frail looking Ivan Milat (pictured) has been seen for the first time in a decade, being wheeled out of Prince of Wales H ospital in Randwick to be transported to the nearby Long Bay Prison Former NSW Corrective Services Commissioner Rod Woodham (pictured) said Milat will never confess to murdering seven backpackers on the outskirts of Sydney in the 1990s Milat (pictured) - Australia's worst ever serial killer - has been in hospital since May 13 where he is being treated for cancer of the oesophagus. Doctors have given him just weeks left to live Milat was seen for the first time in a decade on Tuesday when he was transferred from Prince of Wales Hospital in Randwick to nearby Long Bay Prison. The 74-year-old has spent the past two weeks being treated for painful throat cancer and has a life expectancy of three months. A police source said officers will waste no time extracting an unlikely confession in his dying days. Milat is only able to drink soup and weighs just 64kg after losing weight during treatment, according to the Telegraph. In 1996 Milat was convicted of killing seven backpackers and dumping their bodies in the Belanglo State Forest, south of Sydney. But despite a mountain of evidence against him, he has never confessed. Milat, 74, was dressed in regulation prison greens with long white hair, while his trademark handlebar moustache was also white. He looked gaunt, having lost close to 20kgs in recent months Milat worked in construction during the 1980s. His handlebar moustache became (pictured) legendary Milat has spent the past 23 years in Goulburn's Supermax prison, the strictest in Australia. He has left the prison on just two other occasions - once in 2001 for a court appearance and once in 2009 when he cut off one of his fingers. He is serving seven life sentences, which are all to be served consecutively and without the possibility of parole. Milat stabbed most of his victims - decapitating one whose head has never been found - and shot another 10 times in the head as if using her for target practice. He was also questioned in 2004 about the disappearance of two nurses at Parramatta in 1980 when he was working at the nearby Granville depot of the defunct Department of Main Roads. In 2006 Milat was named by police at an inquest as the person most likely to have killed a schoolgirl and her boyfriend who disappeared from northern Sydney in 1978. After two weeks in hospital Milat was transferred under heavy guard from police and prison officers Wearing white, Dunlop Volley style shoes, Milat had shackles around his feet and handcuffs on his hands Milat (right) and his brother Richard (left) singing at a family gathering. During his trial, Milat's lawyer attempted to shift the blame for some of the backpacker killings to Richard A 25-year-old woman who was fighting her ex-boyfriend for joint custody of his adopted dog has lost her battle. Maine's Supreme Judicial Court upheld a ruling granting Kelvin Liriano, 25, sole custody of Honey, the dog he shared for three years with his 25-year-old girlfriend Jessica Sardina. The court affirmed that pets are property as it confirmed a district judge's decision that Honey belonged to Liriano because only his name appeared on the adoption papers. Pets are considered property in all 50 states. Only Alaska, Illinois and California have specific laws that address pet custody when a marriage dissolves. Jessica Sardina, 25, has lost her battle to win joint custody of Honey (right), the dog she lived with for three years when she was with then-boyfriend Kelvin Liriano (pictured together left) Maine's Supreme Judicial Court upheld a ruling granting Liriano sole custody of Honey (pictured here with Sardina) The court's ruling was swift, and there was no written opinion. During arguments two weeks ago, Chief Justice Leigh Saufley questioned whether it was a good use of time for judges to analyze pet custody in cases that involved unmarried couples. Sardina had argued that animals should be treated like children when it comes to divorce or break-ups and that they are more than mere pieces of property that should be assigned to a single owner. Liriano adopted Honey a month before he moved in with Sardina, but she said they were already dating and a couple. The pair met on Tinder in 2014 but became serious the following year. He moved in to her apartment at the time, bringing Honey with him. Sardina had argued that animals should be treated like children when it comes to divorce or break-ups and that they are more than mere pieces of property assigned to a single owner Over the next three years, they lived together with her two other dogs Murphy and Beasley. When they broke up in 2018, Liriano claims Sardina stopped him from taking Honey with him when he moved out. He took his grievance to a judge, who ordered that he should have sole custody of the animal. In court, Sardina's lawyer argued that a dog was more than a piece of property. 'A dog that greets you and plays with you and loves you is presently on the same level as an inanimate object, like a couch, a diploma or a blender,' said Gene Sullivan, according to The Bangor Daily News. 'We won't see any of those objects on Christmas cards, but people across the country will put their companion animals on holiday cards to other family members and friends because they view their pets as part of their family. 'This is true for both married and unmarried couples,' he added. Liriano adopted Honey a month before he moved in with Sardina, but she said they were already dating and a couple Jonathan Hunter, Liriano's attorneys, claimed Sardina hadn't presented the court with 'any authority for the proposition that having sex with someone gives one rights to the other's property'. 'Nor has she presented any authority that the mere act of cohabiting with someone gives one rights in the other's property acquired separately and prior to cohabitation,' he added. In a social media post on National Puppy Day, Sardina said she didn't understand 'unconditional love' until she met Honey In a recent social media post on National Puppy Day, Sardina said she didn't truly understand 'unconditional love' until she met Honey. 'I worked from home the majority of the time I had her, so I was lucky in that I was able to spend every minute of every day with my three pups. I have thousands and THOUSANDS of pictures just of my Honey girl alone,' she wrote. 'She is the sweetest, goofiest, most lovable dog in the entire world. She came into my life somewhat unexpectedly, but I know it didn't happen by coincidence. I have always said she is my once in a lifetime dog, and I believe that now more than ever. 'I have a bond with her that I don't have with my other kiddos...she has always been so incredibly emotionally connected to me. While I've loved and been loved throughout my life, it wasn't until I had Honey that I truly understood unconditional love.' 'She was my little shadow for over three years...couldn't let me out of her sight. 'Not having her right under my feet for the past 6 months is something I'm still not used to. I'm praying it wont be much longer until my little shadow is right back where she belongs, with her mama. I love you so much, Honey. See ya real soon.' A man charged with scamming GoFundMe donors out of more than $400,000 with a fake feel-good story about a homeless veteran has pleaded not guilty. Mark D'Amico, 39, entered the plea Tuesday in Mount Holly, New Jersey, to a half-dozen fraud and money laundering charges. He rejected a plea deal offered by the state that carried a five-year prison term. Prosecutors say D'Amico, his then-girlfriend Katelyn McClure and homeless veteran Johnny Bobbitt made up a story in 2017 about Bobbitt giving $20 to help McClure when her car ran out of gas in Philadelphia. Mark D'Amico, 39, entered the plea Tuesday in Mount Holly, New Jersey, to a half-dozen fraud and money laundering charges He rejected a plea deal offered by the state that carried a five-year prison term Johnny Bobbitt and Katelyn McClure pleaded guilty in exchange for their cooperation with authorities. McClure, who is D'Amico's ex-girlfriend, pleaded guilty in state Superior Court in April to second-degree theft by deception under a plea agreement that calls for her to serve four years in state prison and help repay the $400,000. McClure says D'Amico was the ringleader and concocted the story. Bobbitt, a homeless military veteran, was sentenced last month to five years' probation for his role in the scheme. Under his plea agreement, he will also help repay the money, according to prosecutors. Johnny Bobbitt and Katelyn McClure pleaded guilty in exchange for their cooperation with authorities Authorities say the trio concocted the story that Bobbitt rescued McClure, D'Amico's then-girlfriend, from the side of a Philadelphia interstate in 2017 to enrich themselves The trio reportedly concocted the story that Bobbitt rescued McClure, D'Amico's then-girlfriend, from the side of a Philadelphia interstate in 2017 to enrich themselves. The couple claimed the cash would be donated to Bobbitt, but New Jersey authorities said the three split the money and spent lavishly, including on a BMW, designer bags, and trips to Las Vegas and elsewhere. According to prosecutors the couple was going through a hard financial time when they concocted the false story. The group solicited donations through GoFundMe, purportedly to help Bobbitt, and got significant attention with a media blitz that included posing for photos together, revisiting the spot where they claimed they first met, and appearing on 'Good Morning America.' This November 2018 file combination of photos provided by the Burlington County Prosecutors office shows Johnny Bobbitt (left), Katelyn McClure (center) and Mark D'Amico (right) Bobbitt was sentenced to five years of probation. Bobbitt stands in the courtroom during his sentencing hearing at Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly, New Jersey on April 12 Katelyn McClure pleaded guilty in New Jersey on April 15 related to scamming 14,000 donors out of $400,000 with the use of a feel-good tale involving a homeless man buying her gas. McClure is pictured at Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly, New Jersey In all, more than 14,000 people contributed. Prosecutors say the scheme 'was designed to pull at the heartstrings of caring, trusting individuals.' GoFundMe says it has refunded the money. Authorities began investigating last year after Bobbitt sued the couple for allegedly not giving him the money. Troy Boothey (pictured) was suspected of killing his girlfriend Maddison Murphy-West, 20 The prime suspect in the murder of a young mother has died of a suspected drug overdose. Troy Boothey was suspected of killing his girlfriend Maddison Murphy-West, 20, on October 23, 2013 in Pakenham, on the southeast fringe of Melbourne. Boothey's body was found at his home in Hastings in the city's south on Saturday. His death is being investigated but police do not believe it is suspicious, and understand he overdosed on drugs. Boothey was a violent ice addict, and Ms Murphy-West's family say they are relieved he is dead. Her aunt Kelly Anne Murphy said Boothey's death was 'a shock'. 'We have mixed emotions. We are glad that he's gone... we are no longer looking over our shoulders but we had hoped he would eventually face charges,' she told the Herald Sun. Ms Murphy said she hoped people would now come forward with information on her niece's death. 'People may not feel scared anymore,' she said. At the time of Ms Murphy-West's death, Boothey told police he found his girlfriend hanging from a door inside her unit. But homicide detectives believed her death was disguised as self-harm, and the scene manipulated to make it appear like a suicide. Boothey was a violent ice addict, and Ms Murphy-West's (pictured) family say they are relieved he is dead Ms Murphy-West's (left) aunt Kelly Anne Murphy said Boothey's (right) death was 'a shock' The young mother had been treated in hospital for an assault 13 months before her death and her family believe she was often in fear for her life. Ms Murphy-West's mother Paula believes that Boothey is the man responsible for killing her daughter and leaving her to raise the couple's son Noah, 6. Boothey went to jail a month after Ms Murphy-West's death for a road-rage attack while on an ice bender. Lifeline - 13 11 14 Labour faced one of the most shameful days in its history yesterday after a formal inquiry was launched into whether it has victimised Jews. In a potentially explosive intervention, the equalities watchdog said it 'suspects' the party has committed 'unlawful acts' in its handling of the anti-Semitism crisis. Last night, Labour rejected claims it was institutionally racist, but leader Jeremy Corbyn remained silent over the probe even turning away from TV cameras after a reporter questioned him on his doorstep. Labour former minister Dame Margaret Hodge said it was a 'disgraceful day' for the party and accused Mr Corbyn of failing to take the issue seriously The announcement is another blow for Jeremy Corbyn (pictured at his London home yesterday), who has been struggling to contain fury about the handling of anti-Semitism among activists Labour MPs described it as a 'truly disgraceful day', while deputy party leader Tom Watson spoke of his 'utter shame'. Only once before has the Equality and Human Rights Commission launched a formal inquiry into a political party and that was the far-Right BNP. The EHRC will investigate whether Mr Corbyn's party has 'unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish' and whether senior staff responded properly to anti-Semitism allegations against its members. If Labour fails to accept its findings, it could be taken to court and be fined. Alastair Campbell is EXPELLED from Labour after voting for the Liberal Democrats Alastair Campbell was today expelled from Labour after he admitted he had not voted for the party for first time in his life, in disgust at the party's stance on Europe Alastair Campbell was today expelled from Labour after he admitted he had not voted for the party for first time in his life, in disgust at the party's stance on Europe. Tony Blair's former spin doctor said he had cast his votes for the Liberal Democrats at the European elections last Thursday. Today the Labour leadership threw him out of the party over his decision, and Mr Campbell will appeal saying that Mr Blair chose not to throw Jeremy Corbyn out of the party despite spending years voting against Labour in Parliament. He tweeted: 'Sad and disappointed to receive email expelling me from @UKLabour - particularly on a day leadership finally seems to be moving to the right place on Brexit, not least thanks to tactical voting by party members, including MPs, councillors and peers who back a people's vote. 'I was not intending to publicise this at this stage, but have had calls from friends in the Party telling me it is now widely known and likely to be leaked. I have been advised by lawyers with expertise in this field I have grounds for appeal against expulsion and shall do so'. Today Britain's human rights watchdog has launched a formal investigation into whether the Labour Party 'unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish'. Mr Campbell said there was a difference in the swift way his situation had been dealt with compared to 'the way anti-Semitism cases have been handled'. Labour MP Margaret Hodge backed him up and said: 'So it takes 5 days for Labour to expel @campbellclaret but almost 3 years to expel prolific anti-semite Jackie Walker. This is why the EHRC are investigating'. Advertisement The watchdog can force the party to hand over emails and texts which could reveal damning evidence of anti-Semitism cases being covered up by senior figures. Jewish groups also expect officials to interview Mr Corbyn and Labour general secretary Jennie Formby on what they know about the alleged failings. As Labour found itself engulfed by controversy: Alastair Campbell was thrown out of the party for voting for the Liberal Democrats in last week's European elections sparking claims the news was leaked in a bid to bury the anti-Semitism probe; A Labour MP said Tony Blair's former spin doctor was 'expelled quicker than a man who threatened to kill me and quicker than a man in my local party who denied the Holocaust'; A string of other party figures including former defence secretary Bob Ainsworth were also expelled for refusing to vote for Labour over its Brexit stance; The party's chaos over a second referendum continued, with MP Lisa Nandy warning it would be a 'final breach of trust'. Last night, Jewish MP Dame Margaret Hodge who has faced abuse from Corbynites for standing up to the leader over anti-Semitism lamented 'a truly disgraceful day for the Labour Party'. She added: 'Corbyn has completely failed from day one to take this issue seriously. The consequence is a full statutory investigation. He should hang his head in shame.' Mr Watson said: 'I have been warning privately and publicly that we risked a vortex of shame if we didn't do everything in our power to root out anti-Semitism in our ranks. I feel utter shame that this investigation is necessary.' Luciana Berger who blamed 'institutional' anti-Semitism when she quit the Labour Party to join Change UK in February added: 'For anyone who might look to play this down, the threshold to initiate this process is extremely high. That the Labour Party has even met the evidentiary threshold is damning.' The EHRC which was founded by Tony Blair's government said it acted after receiving three dossiers showing examples where anti-Semitism was not dealt with properly. They were compiled by the Campaign Against Anti-Semitism, the Jewish Labour Movement and the Labour Against Anti-Semitism group. The dossiers are believed to contain evidence that senior aides of Mr Corbyn intervened to downgrade punishments for anti-Semites. Labour deputy leader Tom Watson has been pushing for tougher action against anti-Semitism among activists (file picture) The EHRC said it was 'launching a formal investigation to determine whether the Labour Party has unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish'. The watchdog will look at how effectively Labour has responded to a string of complaints about the party's anti-Semitism problem. Campaign Against Anti-Semitism said Mr Corbyn had changed Labour into a 'home for hatred in British politics', while the Jewish Labour Movement said: 'For years we have been warning that the Labour Party's response to anti-Semitism within our ranks has been woeful at best, and institutionally racist at worst.' Euan Phillips, of Labour Against Anti-Semitism, said the inquiry was a 'tragedy'. All you need to know about the EHRC investigation What is the EHRC? The Equality and Human Rights Commission was set up by Tony Blair in 2007, taking on the roles of the Commission for Racial Equality, the Equal Opportunities Commission and the Disability Rights Commission. The watchdog investigates public bodies to ensure they are not discriminating people on grounds of age, sexual orientation, race, religion, sex or disability. What is the probe about? The EHRC suspects the Labour Party may have committed 'unlawful acts' in relation to allegations of anti-Semitism. It told the party in March that it had received complaints, and yesterday it launched a formal investigation into whether the party has 'unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish'. What will it look at? The investigation will have four strands: Whether unlawful acts have been committed; The steps Labour has taken to implement reports on anti-Semitism by the Commons home affairs select committee, Shami Chakrabarti and Baroness Royall, who looked at anti-Semitism in Oxford University's Labour student party; Whether the party's investigatory and disciplinary processes deal effectively with complaints of race or religion discrimination, including whether appropriate sanctions have been applied; Whether the party has responded to complaints in a 'lawful, efficient and effective manner'. How long will it take? The EHRC said only that it will conclude the probe 'as quickly as possible'. Who will be interviewed? The watchdog said it will interview 'anyone who we think has relevant information to the investigation'. Jewish groups expect it to speak to Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and the party's general secretary Jennie Formby. What powers does the EHRC have? This is not a criminal investigation, and investigators will not be considering whether crimes have been committed. But it will be able to force Labour to provide information, documents, emails, texts and oral evidence and can get a court order if the party doesn't comply. At the end of the process, the watchdog will publish a report stating whether the party has committed an 'unlawful act'. It will put forward a series of recommendations and demand an action plan is prepared and carried out. If the party ignores this, the EHRC can take it to court, which can result in an unlimited fine. Has the watchdog used its powers before? Only once against a political party when it took legal action against the far-Right British National Party. The EHRC said the BNP constitution breached discrimination laws because of a clause banning non-white members. The watchdog started court action and the party was forced to rewrite its membership rules. Advertisement Dossier that lays bare damaging hate claims As the EHRC launches a formal investigation into Labour, we look at some of the most disturbing allegations of anti-Semitism against party members and supporters: A Labour councillor was forced to quit the party last August after saying Hitler 'would have had a solution to the Israel problem'. Damien Enticott, of Bognor Regis Town Council, apologised after posting on Facebook that some Jews 'need executing'. He suggested others were paedophiles, referring to the way orthodox rabbis clean circumcision wounds. Richard Burgon MP declared on oath that he did not believe Zionism was the 'enemy of peace' only three months before a video emerged proving he did. Labour's justice spokesman had last year denied making the comment after it was exposed by the Mail in 2016. A party member was suspended in April for branding two female Jewish MPs 'a couple of sh*t-stirring c*** buckets bought and paid for by Israel'. The activist described Ruth Smeeth and Dame Margaret Hodge as 'cretinous pieces of s**t' who should 'f*** off back under their stones'. Jeremy Corbyn last week issued a message to a group called 'British Muslims for Corbyn' whose Facebook page is littered with anti-Semitic tropes. It is not suggested Mr Corbyn knew of or supported the comments on the group's page. Last year the Mail revealed a photo of Mr Corbyn during a 2014 visit to Tunis, holding a wreath yards from the graves honouring the Palestinian terrorists behind the Munich Olympics massacre. Labour MP Chris Williamson was suspended in February after it was revealed he said the party was 'too apologetic' about anti-Semitism. A Labour member shared a post accusing Jewish people of 'eating the organs of their enemies' and accused Jews of inventing modern terrorism by saying 'IRA murderers took their cue from Jews'. But the party sought to delay his suspension until it was found if his disability had left him vulnerable. A leaked file of 45 cases of repugnant messages posted online by Labour members is being examined by Met Police Commissioner Cressida Dick. A member of Labour's National Policy Forum was suspended after writing that deputy leader Tom Watson received '50,000+ from Jewish donors'. George McManus added: 'At least Judas only got 30 pieces of silver.' He apologised and the sanction was lifted in September. A party member from former Labour MP Luciana Berger's Liverpool constituency attacked users on Twitter who opposed anti-Semitism. He had previously been suspended for sending abusive messages to Labour MPs but was allowed back into the party last April and no further action was taken. Jennie Formby, Labour's general secretary, said 96 members were suspended for their conduct between April 2018 and January 2019, while 12 were expelled. She said 673 complaints were received in ten months alleging acts of anti-Semitism by its members. A member was not suspended even though he was reported in May last year for saying Jewish MPs 'can't rein in your killers in the Middle East', referred to the 'Jewish brigade' and said 'Jews desire the Labour Party to comply with their demands'. The party let off a branch secretary last April for using the offensive word 'zio', despite it being a second offence and instead sought to reprimand the person who complained. A party member from Luciana Berger's Liverpool Wavertree constituency attacked users on Twitter who opposed anti-Semitism. He had previously been suspended from Labour and issued with a warning for sending abusive messages to several Labour MPs, but was then allowed back into the party last April and no further action was taken. In June 2017, a member of Momentum's steering committee shared a message accusing Saudi Arabia of being in thrall to 'Zionist paymasters'. Apsana Begum later apologised. A Labour activist reported last April for writing on Miss Berger's Facebook page that 'there are Zionist infiltrators in the Labour Party stirring trouble that doesn't exist' was let off without reprimand and was able to stand in local elections. An activist supported a notorious anti-Semitic mural but escaped suspension because 'she hasn't displayed any specific anti-Semitic attitudes, more just general ignorance and lack of education'. A Labour candidate posted that 'Jews are often agents rather than instigators of exploitation' but her suspension was blocked and she was elected as a councillor last year. Activist Kayla Bibby shared a picture of an alien bearing the Star of David choking the Statue of Liberty but escaped suspension from her party as image was 'not anti-Jewish'. A Labour councillor in Wales posted YouTube videos to his Facebook page with titles such as: 'Is ISIS good for the Jews?' and 'The whole story of Zionist conspiracy'. In April 2018, the party considered 'investigation without suspension'. Mr Corbyn gave his support to graffiti artist Mear One who painted a mural in London portraying several known anti-Semitic tropes in 2012, saying he was 'in good company'. He later conceded he had been wrong. A member repeated abusive posts about Mrs Smeeth and had previously been suspended by the party. But she faced no action as officials decided she was 'not someone engaging in anti-Semitism'. Advertisement As the EHRC launches a formal investigation into Labour, we look at some of the most disturbing allegations of anti-Semitism against party members and supporters: A Labour councillor was forced to quit the party last August after saying Hitler 'would have had a solution to the Israel problem'. Damien Enticott, of Bognor Regis Town Council, apologised after posting on Facebook that some Jews 'need executing'. He suggested others were paedophiles, referring to the way orthodox rabbis clean circumcision wounds. Richard Burgon MP declared on oath that he did not believe Zionism was the 'enemy of peace' only three months before a video emerged proving he did. Labour's justice spokesman had last year denied making the comment after it was exposed by the Mail in 2016. As the EHRC launches a formal investigation into Labour, we look at some of the most disturbing allegations of anti-Semitism against party members and supporters. Activist Kayla Bibby shared a picture of an alien bearing the Star of David choking the Statue of Liberty but escaped suspension from her party as image was 'not anti-Jewish' A party member was suspended in April for branding two female Jewish MPs 'a couple of sh*t-stirring c*** buckets bought and paid for by Israel'. The activist described Ruth Smeeth and Dame Margaret Hodge as 'cretinous pieces of s**t' who should 'f*** off back under their stones'. Jeremy Corbyn last week issued a message to a group called 'British Muslims for Corbyn' whose Facebook page is littered with anti-Semitic tropes. It is not suggested Mr Corbyn knew of or supported the comments on the group's page. Last year the Mail revealed a photo of Mr Corbyn during a 2014 visit to Tunis, holding a wreath yards from the graves honouring the Palestinian terrorists behind the Munich Olympics massacre. Labour MP Chris Williamson was suspended in February after it was revealed he said the party was 'too apologetic' about anti-Semitism. A Labour member shared a post accusing Jewish people of 'eating the organs of their enemies' and accused Jews of inventing modern terrorism by saying 'IRA murderers took their cue from Jews'. But the party sought to delay his suspension until it was found if his disability had left him vulnerable. A leaked file of 45 cases of repugnant messages posted online by Labour members is being examined by Met Police Commissioner Cressida Dick. A member of Labour's National Policy Forum was suspended after writing that deputy leader Tom Watson received '50,000+ from Jewish donors'. George McManus added: 'At least Judas only got 30 pieces of silver.' He apologised and the sanction was lifted in September. A party member from former Labour MP Luciana Berger's Liverpool constituency attacked users on Twitter who opposed anti-Semitism. He had previously been suspended for sending abusive messages to Labour MPs but was allowed back into the party last April and no further action was taken. Mr Corbyn gave his support to graffiti artist Mear One who painted a mural in London (pictured) portraying several known anti-Semitic tropes in 2012, saying he was 'in good company'. He later conceded he had been wrong Jennie Formby, Labour's general secretary, said 96 members were suspended for their conduct between April 2018 and January 2019, while 12 were expelled. She said 673 complaints were received in ten months alleging acts of anti-Semitism by its members. A member was not suspended even though he was reported in May last year for saying Jewish MPs 'can't rein in your killers in the Middle East', referred to the 'Jewish brigade' and said 'Jews desire the Labour Party to comply with their demands'. The party let off a branch secretary last April for using the offensive word 'zio', despite it being a second offence and instead sought to reprimand the person who complained. A party member from Luciana Berger's Liverpool Wavertree constituency attacked users on Twitter who opposed anti-Semitism. He had previously been suspended from Labour and issued with a warning for sending abusive messages to several Labour MPs, but was then allowed back into the party last April and no further action was taken. In June 2017, a member of Momentum's steering committee shared a message accusing Saudi Arabia of being in thrall to 'Zionist paymasters'. Apsana Begum later apologised. A Labour activist reported last April for writing on Miss Berger's Facebook page that 'there are Zionist infiltrators in the Labour Party stirring trouble that doesn't exist' was let off without reprimand and was able to stand in local elections. An activist supported a notorious anti-Semitic mural but escaped suspension because 'she hasn't displayed any specific anti-Semitic attitudes, more just general ignorance and lack of education'. A Labour candidate posted that 'Jews are often agents rather than instigators of exploitation' but her suspension was blocked and she was elected as a councillor last year. Activist Kayla Bibby shared a picture of an alien bearing the Star of David choking the Statue of Liberty but escaped suspension from her party as image was 'not anti-Jewish'. A Labour councillor in Wales posted YouTube videos to his Facebook page with titles such as: 'Is ISIS good for the Jews?' and 'The whole story of Zionist conspiracy'. In April 2018, the party considered 'investigation without suspension'. Mr Corbyn gave his support to graffiti artist Mear One who painted a mural in London portraying several known anti-Semitic tropes in 2012, saying he was 'in good company'. He later conceded he had been wrong. A member repeated abusive posts about Mrs Smeeth and had previously been suspended by the party. But she faced no action as officials decided she was 'not someone engaging in anti-Semitism'. Advertisement A drug syndicate involving alleged couriers driving BMWs and cocaine bags with naked women printed on them has been busted open by police. The raid resulted in 55 people being charged after the investigation into the supply of cocaine and other drugs in Sydney. More than 290g of cocaine, 13g of MDMA - also known as ecstasy - 110g of cannabis and $63,000 cash was seized after six night-time investigations across the city's affluent eastern suburbs. A drug syndicate involving alleged couriers driving BMWs and cocaine bags with naked women printed on them has been busted open by police Fifty five people were charged after police investigated cocaine supply across Sydney's affluent eastern suburbs The raid resulted in 55 people being charged after the investigation into the supply of cocaine and other drugs in Sydney Officers seized more than 290g of cocaine, 13g of MDMA - also known as ecstasy - 110g of cananbis and $63,000 cash after six night-time investigations across the city's affluent eastern suburbs A black BMW was stopped and searched in Paddington on May 11, with 17g of cocaine and $4,200 cash found inside. The 29-year-old woman driving the car was charged with supplying a prohibited drug of an indictable quantity, knowingly dealing with proceeds of crime and possessing a prohibited drug A black BMW was stopped and searched in Paddington on May 11, with 17g of cocaine and $4,200 cash found inside. The 29-year-old woman driving the car was charged with supplying a prohibited drug of indictable quantity, knowingly dealing with proceeds of crime and possessing a prohibited drug. Other cars were stopped and searched during the investigation, including a white Kia with more than $22,000 in cash hidden in envelopes and stashed in the glove box and boot of the car. Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Bell said the investigation was still ongoing. Other cars were stopped and searched during the investigation, including a white Kia with more than $22,000 in cash hidden in envelopes and stashed in the glove box and boot of the car Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Bell said the investigation was still ongoing 'These illicit substances are incredibly dangerous, and we will do everything we can to remove them from the streets of Sydney,' Mr Bell said Fifty five people were charged following a targeted police investigation into Sydney's cocaine trade 'These illicit substances are incredibly dangerous, and we will do everything we can to remove them from the streets of Sydney,' he said. 'Police do not want to see any more drug-related deaths and it is disappointing to see so many people putting other's lives at risk through the sale and distribution of these drugs. 'If anyone in the community has information about the supply of prohibited drugs, please contact Crime Stoppers immediately.' The investigation was focused on Sydney's affluent eastern suburbs, with a number of cars stopped and searched Alastair Campbell was dramatically expelled from the Labour Party yesterday 36 hours after he admitting voting Liberal Democrat in the European elections. Tony Blair's former spin doctor was told by email he had been thrown out for supporting a rival party. He had only revealed late on Sunday night that he voted Liberal Democrat 'to try to persuade Labour to do the right thing' on a second referendum. Alastair Campbell was today expelled from Labour after he admitted he had not voted for the party for first time in his life, in disgust at the party's stance on Europe Muslim Council calls for probe into allegations of Islamophobia in Tory Party as Labour anti-Semitism investigation begins The Conservative Party should be investigated by the equalities watchdog over allegations of Islamophobia, the Muslim Council of Britain has urged. In a letter to the chairman of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, the body's secretary-general Harun Khan said he believed there is 'sufficient evidence' to suggest there is a 'prima facie case to answer of systemic unlawful acts' by the party. Mr Khan said around 150 representatives and members of the party have 'engaged in Islamophobia'. And he accused those responsible for handling complaints of demonstrating a 'callous attitude'. Advertisement Labour insisted yesterday that supporting another party was 'incompatible with membership' despite Mr Campbell making clear that he'll 'always be Labour'. Last night critics pointed to the speed with which Labour had expelled Mr Campbell compared to the length of time it has taken to act against members accused of anti-Semitism and other serious allegations. The expulsion came on the day the Equality and Human Rights Commission launched a formal inquiry into the party over anti-Semitism. Labour MP Jess Phillips said Mr Campbell was 'expelled quicker than a man who threatened to kill me and quicker than a man in my local party who denied the Holocaust', adding: 'Both are only still suspended.' Diane Abbott says Labour must now back a second Brexit referendum Diane Abbott today gave Jeremy Corbyn a shove towards formally backing a second EU referendum calling it 'the democratic thing to do'. The Shadow Home Secretary said a new vote on any Brexit deal must become Labour policy and she also urged the party to campaign to remain in the EU. She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'Now at minutes to midnight on these negotiations, the Tories plunged into their leadership contest so we get no sense out of them for a few months, we think it's important to foreground the People's Vote.' She added: 'There is no inherent contradiction between respecting the result of the referendum and having a People's Vote, not least because it's still not sure how a People's Vote would pan out. Mr Corbyn is under huge pressure to back a new poll after Labour's electoral humiliation triggered a mutiny at the top of his party. He signalled he could be ready to commit to a second Brexit vote after his closest colleagues said it was the only way to stop Labour haemorrhaging support. Tony Blair predicted today that it is 'more likely now that we will have another referendum and more likely that therefore we will vote to stay in the European Union', and said the party needs to 'stop equivocating' on Brexit. Advertisement Dame Margaret Hodge said: 'So it takes five days [from voting] for Labour to expel Alastair Campbell but almost three years to expel prolific anti-Semite Jackie Walker. This is why the EHRC are investigating.' Miriam Mirwitch, national leader of Young Labour, suggested the Campbell story was being used to distract attention away from the EHRC anti-Semitism probe that was announced into the party yesterday. She said: 'The Alastair Campbell story is a dead cat distracting from the EHRC investigation. It matters that our approach to discipline is so inconsistent.' Mr Campbell said there appeared to be a difference in the swift way his situation had been dealt with compared to 'the way anti-Semitism cases have been handled'. He said he would be appealing against the decision, pointing out that many of Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's senior aides had voted for other parties in the past. Meanwhile, it emerged last night that former Labour home secretary Charles Clarke had also voted Lib Dem in a 'one-off decision' and ex-defence secretary Bob Ainsworth had been expelled for voting Green last week. Former MP Fiona Mactaggart dared Labour to expel her after she revealed on Twitter she had not voted for the party. Mr Campbell announced on Twitter that he had been expelled. He tweeted: 'Sad and disappointed to receive email expelling me from Labour particularly on a day the leadership finally seems to be moving to the right place on Brexit, not least thanks to tactical voting by party members, including MPs, councillors and peers who back a People's Vote. 'I have been advised by lawyers with expertise in this field I have grounds for appeal against expulsion and shall do so. I am and always will be Labour. 'I voted Lib Dem, without advance publicity, to try to persuade Labour to do right thing for country/party. It is hard not to point out difference in the way anti-Semitism cases have been handled. 'Plenty of precedent of members voting for other parties/causes. Some are now senior party staff. Approach also contrasts with our era when Tony Blair was being pressed by whips to withdraw whip for Jeremy Corbyn and others for persistently voting against Labour in Parliament, and he said no.' Speaking outside his home in north London, Mr Campbell said: 'I'm not going to leave the party just because some random email comes in telling me that I've been expelled. So I will definitely appeal against it and we will see where that goes.' He claimed people in 'senior positions' in Mr Corbyn's office had recommended voting against Labour. Mr Campbell declined to say who he would vote for in a snap general election. Campbell hit back by promising to protect the 'secrets' of Labour members who also told them they had not voted Labour He said: 'I want to vote Labour at the general election but that will depend on the policy that the Labour Party puts forward between now and then in relation to Brexit.' Mr Clarke said Labour 'should immediately withdraw its expulsion of Alastair' and pledged to back the party at the next general election. A Labour spokesman said its rules were that people who vote for other parties are automatically expelled, but those accused of anti-Semitism have to go through a separate disciplinary process. Lightning struck a Russian Soyuz rocket just ten seconds into its thunderous journey up through the atmosphere, shocking footing reveals. The electrical discharge hit the Soyuz both on its nose fairing and its third-stage booster segment, according to the spacecraft's on-board instruments. Unimpeded by the strike, the carrier rocket continued into its planned low-earth orbit, where it delivered its payload of a radio-based navigation satellite. Lightning struck a Russian Soyuz rocket (pictured) just ten seconds into its thunderous journey up through the atmosphere, shocking footing reveals. The Roscosmos Soyuz 2-1b rocket roared into the air from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome near Mirny, northern Russia, at 06:23 UTC (07:23 BST) on May 27, 2019. The Soyuz 2 carrier launch, the first from the cosmodrome this year, was carrying a replacement GLONASS-M (Global Navigation Satellite System) satellite into orbit. Ten seconds into the flight, however, the ascending rocket was hit by a bolt of lightning. Roscosmos director Dmitry Rogozin posted a video of the launch, showing the shocking moment that the lightning struck, onto Twitter. In the post, he congratulated the Russian space forces and scientists, adding that 'lightning is no hindrance for you.' The rocket continued its 3.5 hour flight into a low-Earth orbit, where it proceeded to deliver its satellite payload on schedule. 'A stable telemetric connection [was] established and maintained with the spacecraft,' the Russian Ministry of Defense reported after the incident. 'The on-board systems of the GLONASS-M spacecraft are functioning normally.' Instruments about the Soyuz rocket recorded data on the lightning strike, transmitting the information with its regular telemetry to the control centre at the cosmodrome on the ground. 'During the liftoff, lightning struck the nose fairing and the third stage of the carrier rocket,' an unidentified source in the Russian space industry told the Russian News Agency TASS. The incident did not affect the operation of the carrier rockets systems, as Soyuz spacecraft are equipped with the protection mechanism against such phenomena,' the source added. According to the spacecraft's on-board instruments, the electrical discharge hit the Soyuz both on its nose fairing and its third-stage booster segment (pictured) 'While rather spectacular, being struck by lightning is not particularly threatening to a rocket launch,' UCL physicist Alan Smith told MailOnline. 'It's a known hazard, of course, and the outer shell of the rocket can cope with the electrical surge without affecting the interior,' Professor Smith added. 'Aircraft are often struck by lightning with no serious effect. 'The metal rocket skin creates a Faraday Cage around its interior, protecting it from harm. 'Of course there is always a chance that some critical sensor on the outside might be affected, but this has been considered.' Instruments about the Soyuz rocket recorded data on the lightning strike, transmitting the information with its regular telemetry to the control centre at the cosmodrome on the ground, pictured here during the rocket's lift-off Lightning strikes on rockets might be rare, but they are not without precedent. The Saturn V rocket that carried the Apollo 12 mission to the moon was struck twice by lightning during its ascent through the atmosphere on November 14, 1969. The resulting power surge led to the command and service modules fuel cells and instrumentation being taken offline, and telemetry with NASA's mission control in Houston, Texas was disrupted. Quick thinking from ground-based flight controller John Aaron and spacecraft systems engineer Alan Bean on board the rocket brought the command module's systems back online by switching to a backup power supply. Fortunately, the lightning had caused no serious permanent damage and the mission carried on to the moon as intended. Lightning strikes on rockets are not without precedent. The Saturn V rocket that carried the Apollo 12 mission to the moon (pictured, during launch) was struck twice by lightning during its ascent through the atmosphere on November 14, 1969 The Soyuz 2 carrier launch, the first from the cosmodrome this year, was carrying a replacement GLONASS-M satellite into orbit. Pictured: a model GLONASS-M, which was displayed at the CeBIT computing conference in 2011 HOW DID THE SOYUZ ROCKET SURVIVE BEING STRUCK BY LIGHTNING? Lightning strikes are a known hazard for rockets, both on the launch pad and in flight. Rocket outer shells are designed to cope with the electrical surge without affecting the interior. The metal rocket skin creates a Faraday Cage around its interior, protecting it from harm. There is always the chance, however, that critical sensors on the outside of the rocket might be affected. 'While rather spectacular, being struck by lightning is not particularly threatening to a rocket launch,' UCL physicist Alan Smith told MailOnline. Aircraft, similarly, are often struck by lightning to no serious effect. Advertisement The weather on the day of the Apollo 12 launch had been cloudy, but not stormy making the strikes themselves somewhat unexpected. A NASA investigation into the incident later revealed that 'lightning can be triggered by the presence of the long electrical length created by the space vehicle and its exhaust plume in an electric field which would not otherwise have produced natural lightning.' Nowadays, space agencies have extremely stringent weather guidelines for rocket launches and lightning protection built into both spacecraft and their launch pads. NASA regulations, for example, prohibit rockets being fuelled if there is more than a 20 per cent chance that lightning may strike within five-miles of the launch site. Electrical field activity around rocket centres are rigorously monitored. Similarly, rocket launches are only permitted if no lightning or storm clouds have been observed within a 10-mile (16 km) radius of the rocket's flight path. Launch pads are typically fitted out with lightning rods to prevent direct strikes to their rockets before launch. 'The weather is not an obstacle and we [the Space Force of Russia's Aerospace Forces] are all-weather troops,' cosmodrome chief Major-General Nikolai Nestechuk told RT. Although the Soyuz rocket was carrying a civilian satellite, the Plesetsk cosmodrome is a Russian military facility. 'The launch was carried out in the normal mode,' Major-General Nestechuk added. 'This is yet more proof that lightning cannot damage our aerospace weapons.' Unimpeded by the strike, the carrier rocket continued into its planned low-earth orbit, where it delivered its payload of a radio-based navigation satellite. Pictured: A Soyuz 2-1b rocket on a launch pad at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, in October 2018. The Roscosmos Soyuz 2-1b rocket roared into the air from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome near Mirny, northern Russia, at 06:23 UTC on May 27, 2019 A wristband which sends an alert if the wearer is being sexually assaulted or harassed on a night out has been developed by a student. Design student Beatriz Carvalho, 21, invented the discreet band and accompanying app which alerts friends and nightclub staff if a person feels they are in danger. If the wearer finds themselves in an uncomfortable situation, they can tap the wristband to trigger the alert through the app. A double tap will make the wristband light up and send a second alarm to bar and nightclub staff. After suffering from an incident where she was harassed as a teenager, Ms Carvalho wanted to help potential victims and 'educate perpetrators'. Scroll down for video A colour-changing wristband which sends an alert if a victim is being sexually assaulted or harassed on a night out could prevent attacks from happening. A university student invented the discreet band and app which alerts friends and staff if a person feels they are in danger The Edinburgh Napier product design student came up with the idea for her fourth year project with the aim to help keep its wearer safe. The wristband can be linked to the Lux app which friends can join before going on a night out. 'It's there to identify behaviour that is going too far and to help educate the perpetrator that this sort of thing isn't acceptable,' said Ms Carvalho. 'It's important that people who do potentially harass and step over the line learn to not do this sort of thing again - that's really the only way that things will improve.' The product has been a personal project of Ms Carvalho since she experienced harassment at school. The incident still haunts her today saying that certain triggers bring the horrible memories back and wants to make a difference for people which Ms Carvalho says could act like a safety net. After suffering from an incident where she was harassed as a teenager, design student Beatriz Carvalho, 21, wanted to help potential victims and 'educate perpetrators'. A double tap will make the wristband light up and send a second alarm to bar and nightclub staff Sexual harassment, groping, assault and unwanted sexual attention happens frequently at gigs and festivals A recent study by the University of Leeds said that most incidents are not reported, in part because victims worry because they will not be believed or taken seriously. The study noted that the number of false rape accusations is no higher than false reports for other crimes - 3 per cent. The UK Live Music Census found that two out of three venues examined did not have policies on sexual harassment and assault. 'Many have experienced something like this in a nightclub or at a gig,' said Ms Carvalho. 'No one should be scared of going out and Lux could be the difference for many - it could act like a safety net.' 'Sexual harassment and behaviour that makes people uncomfortable is a complex subject. 'Many people want to shy away from it and pretend that it doesn't happen.' Statistics show that about one in five women in England and Wales have experienced sexual assault since the age of 16. Makers of such products, like the Lux wristband, argue that they have a vital role to play in tackling sexual assault. The project was displayed for the first time at the Edinburgh Napier Degree Show earlier this month. A 'selfie robot' that is set to replace instant cameras and photo booths at parties has made its debut at at a UK wedding. The robot, designed by Birmingham-based firm , allowed wedding goers at a local reception to send photos it to themselves by email or text. Armed with AI software that can detect faces, the robot can 'roam freely' around a room and stops to ask people if they would like their photo taken. It also has an infrared sensor that prevents it smashing into people and obstacles. Scroll down for video A roaming robot (pictured) that allows wedding goers to take pictures of themselves has made its debut in the UK at a wedding reception WHAT ARE EVA'S FEATURES? Eva Photography Robot has been developed by a computer programmer in Birmingham to take selfies of partygoers and made its first debut at a wedding. Its features are as follows: Measures 65 cm x 56 cm x 150cm. (26 x 22 x 59 inches) Share pictures on social media or print in the room to our Print Station. Large 23.8 inch (60cm) touch screen Customise the on screen options* with branded videos, company logos or altering greetings. Smart map building Infrared Sensors to achieve precise indoor navigation and obstacle avoidance Frequent back-end updates Uses a Dual OS Advertisement Dubbed 'Eva Photography Robot', it can be adapted for a number of functions with different casings for guises like 'Amy Waitress' for dinner parties. The robot is designed to bring a more 'interactive' experience to weddings compared to instant cameras, according to its developer's website. 'No matter how many goofy props you provide guests with, the standard booth simply wont cut it anymore. A photobooth robot is a fantastic way to bring your wedding into the current decade', the site pages said. The robot, which recently wowed party goers at a wedding in Birmingham, has been described as a 'humanoid', which is a robot that is made to resemble a human and usually comes with limbs. The selfie robot allows users to selfies by pressing a capture button at the bottom of its touchscreen like on a phone. It can then select the options of emailing or text themselves the photographs to themselves to share on social media or have it printed out in a photo printing booth in the same room. On-screen options can be pre-customised to include company logos or a range of greetings,according to Eva's specifications. The robot can also be programmed to take surveys on its touchscreen. It comes equipped with Infrared Sensors to 'achieve precise indoor navigation and obstacle avoidance' according to the website. Chris wood, the director of Service Robots who spoke to MailOnline, said: 'They can also be pre-customised to say things like 'Would you like to take a picture', said Mr Wood.' 'It also comes equipped with Lidar.' Designed by a Birmingham based company, the robot (show) allows partygoers to take pictures via its touchscreen and then send it to themselves by email or text. LiDAR remote sensing technology allows archaeologists to hunt for sites of interest from a distance LiDAR (light detection and ranging) is a remote sensing technology that measures distance by shooting a laser at a target and analysing the light that is reflected back. The technology was developed in the early 1960s and uses laser imaging with radar technology that can calculate distances. It was first used in meteorology to measure clouds by the National Center for Atmospheric Research. The term lidar is a portmanteau of 'light and 'radar.' Lidar uses ultraviolet, visible, or near infrared light to image objects and can be used with a wide range of targets, including non-metallic objects, rocks, rain, chemical compounds, aerosols, clouds and even single molecules. A narrow laser beam can be used to map physical features with very high resolution. This new technique allowed researchers to map outlines of what they describe as dozens of newly discovered Maya cities hidden under thick jungle foliage centuries after they were abandoned by their original inhabitants. Aircraft with a Lidar scanner produced three-dimensional maps of the surface by using light in the form of pulsed laser linked to a GPS system. The technology helped researchers discover sites much faster than using traditional archaeological methods. Advertisement The price of using a selfie robot to capture wedding memories are however clearly more expensive than an instant camera or selfie stick. The cost of hiring Eva for three hours is 499 ($632) + VAT which is roughly 750 ($950), and the robot can be hired for up to 8 hours at a time. This includes free delivery in the vicinity of Birmingham and an additional charge of around 300 ($380) for London which is roughly 125 miles (200km) away. According to Mr Wood, the technology is entirely owned by his company, Service robots but the 'carcasses' of the robots are imported from China and taken apart to build the new robots. 'I'm a developer by background but we have also been a photobooth company for the last 15 years which where the idea came from,' said Mr Wood. A number of companies are developing such robots for public usage hire including Selfiebot. Armed with facial recognition, the robots 'roam freely' around a room and stops to ask individuals and groups if they would like their photo taken. The image shows an example of a selfie taken at a Birmingham wedding It also has an infrared sensor that prevents it smashing into people and obstacles.The image shows a partygoer using its touchscreen to make a selection Two new predatory megaraptor dinosaur species that were distantly related to Tyrannosaurus rex have been identified from fossils found in Thailand. The specimens were first unearthed 30 years ago but their significance went unrecognised until researchers re-examined the museum-stored samples. Both new dinosaurs would have been smaller and more primitive than T Rex, researchers said, but would have still made for deadly predators. Scroll down for video Two new predatory megaraptor dinosaur species that were distantly related to T. rex have been identified from fossils from Thailand. Pictured: an artist's impression of the finds Palaeontologists Adun Samathi and Martin Sander of the University of Bonn, Germany, and Phornphen Chanthasit of the Sirindhorn Museum in Thailand worked together to study the remains, bringing casts of the fossils to Bonn for further analysis. They first identified the preserved bones of a new dinosaur that they estimate would have been around 20 feet (six metres) in length. 'We were able to assign the bones to a novel megaraptor, which we baptised Phuwiangvenator yaemniyomi,' explains Mr Samathi. The name was derived from both the district in which the remains were unearthed, Phuwiang, and the discoverer of Thailand's first dinosaur fossil, the late geologist Sudham Yaemniyom. Megaraptors were a group of carnivorous, predatory dinosaurs that were distantly related to Tyrannosaurus rex. Most of the P. yaemniyomi fossil bones were dug up by Phu Wiang Fossil Research Center and Dinosaur Museum staff member Preecha Sainongkham, in 1993, who presented the finds to the Sirindhorn Museum. However, the fossils were never examined in detail until recently. 'Five years ago I came across these finds during my research,' Mr Samathi said. The fossils had been first unearthed 30 years ago, but their significance went unrecognised until researcher led by Adun Samathi (pictured) re-examined the museum-stored samples Mr Samanthi discovered a second unidentified raptor species in the Sirindhorn Museum collection while hunting for additional samples of P. yaemniyomi in Thailand. Dubbed Vayuraptor nongbualamphuensis, this second dinosaur would have been slightly smaller in life, with an estimated length of around 15 feet (4.5 metres). For comparison, T. rex typically grew to around 39 feet (12 metres) in length. The V. nongbualamphuensis remains were excavated by one Paladej Srisuk at Phu Wat in 1988. While the fossilised bones were too sparse to precisely determine V. nongbualamphuensis' ancestry, researchers assume that the smaller dinosaur is also related to both P. yaemniyomi and T. rex. Both newly-discovered dinosaur species would have been efficient predators, researchers determined, with P. yaemniyomi likely to have been a fast runner. Like Tyrannosaurus, both of the new dinosaurs would have run on their hind legs. Unlike their famous relative, however, P. yaemniyomi and V. nongbualamphuensis would have had strong arms that ended with long claws, as well as more delicate heads that would have ended in a long snout. 'Perhaps the situation can be compared with that of African big cats,' said Mr Samathi. 'If Phuwiangvenator were a lion, Vayuraptor would be a cheetah.' Unlike T. rex, P. yaemniyomi (artist's impression, below, showing the bones found) and V. nongbualamphuensis (above) would have had strong arms that ended with long claws, as well as more delicate heads that would have ended in a long snout To date, megaraptors have primarily been unearthed from Australia and South America. 'We have compared the Thai fossils with the finds there,' Mr Samathi said. 'Various characteristics of Phuwiangvenator indicate that it is an early representative of this group,' he added. 'We take this as an indication that the megaraptors originated in Southeast Asia and then spread to other regions.' The two new dinosaurs will go on display to the public on May 28, 2019, in celebration of the tenth anniversary of the Sirindhorn Museum. The exhibit will be opened by the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, of the Thai royal family. The full findings of the study were published in the journal Acta Palaeontologica Polonica. Most of the P. yaemniyomi remains were unearthed from the Phu Wiang Mountain by museum staff member Preecha Sainongkham in 1993, while the V. nongbualamphuensis fossils were excavated by one Paladej Srisuk at Phu Wat in 1988 A dragon-shaped island with up to 10,000 floating homes would put Swansea 'on the global stage', according to the innovator behind the project. Dragon Energy Island shaped to resemble the dragon from the Welsh national flag has been proposed as part of the city's revived tidal lagoon project (TLP). The 1.3 billion project, led by Malcolm Copson, who's working with the Swansea Bay City Region's task force, was scrapped by the UK Government last year over costs. It is now claimed that the new scheme would be cheaper because the proposed island would have underwater turbines to produce electricity. The ambitious proposal says the giant turbines could generate zero-carbon power for Swansea and beyond for more than a century and would not need financial backing from the UK government, according to TLP. Scroll down for video A dragon-shaped island made from up to 10,000 floating homes would put Swansea 'on the global stage', according to the innovator behind the project. Pictured, an illustration of the Dragon Energy Island project in Swansea Bay Councils and other public sector organisations could buy electricity directly from the energy island, according to the project team. Concept images have also been released, which show retail units, an underwater data centre, a solar farm, and facilities to produce pure hydrogen and oxygen for storage or for sale. Mr Copson, from Hong Kong-based company MOI Imagineering, said the inclusion of up to 10,000 floating homes would make the revised tidal lagoon scheme financially viable. The CEO's work includes Disneyland Paris and the Atlantis, the Palm resort on Dubai's famous artificial Palm Jumeirah. He urged the public to 'embrace' his plan and give Swansea a chance to lead the world and develop an industry of global significance, creating thousands of jobs. The previous lagoon project in Swansea Bay designed to generate clean energy from the tides was not supported by the Westminster government because of the significant running costs, including an annual fee running into several million pounds to the Crown Estate. Business and Energy Secretary Greg Clark said the project was 'not value for money', despite claims by developers that a revised offer made it cheaper. Mr Copson said: 'There are already several examples of floating, modular home developments across the planet including Holland, which is below sea level and has a similar climate to Swansea Bay. This is the way the world is going. Dragon Energy Island shaped to resemble the dragon from the Welsh national flag has been proposed as part of the city's revived tidal lagoon project. Developers behind plans for Dragon Energy Island say it could provide up to 10,000 homes 'But many plans for similar developments in cities like New Orleans in the USA, for example are still on the drawing board. 'This is a signature project that would put Swansea on the global stage as a visionary city.' Mr Copson said that houses would float on giant platforms and be protected by a sea wall, with 'innovative solutions' planned for sewage and waste. An independent report into the feasibility of the project will be considered by the Swansea Bay City Region's Joint Committee on Tuesday. Those behind the project hope construction could start in 2021, with the island potentially fully operational by the end of 2026. A virtually undisturbed sample of 20,000-year-old seawater that represents the first direct remnant from Earth's last Ice Age has been found in the Indian Ocean. Researchers found the ice while drilling sediment core samples out of the underwater limestone deposits in the Maldives archipelago in South Asia. Their work revealed distinct water properties only seen in glacial seawater from the last Ice Age, or the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). The team, from the University of Chicago, say that their work could lead a better understanding of out changing world and improved climate models. Scroll down for video A sample of 20,000-year-old seawater that represents the first direct remnant from Earth's last ice age has been found. Here, assistant Professor Clara Blattler with a vial of seawater dating to the last Ice Ageabout 20,000 years ago During an expedition of the Indian Ocean on research vessel JOIDES Resolution, the researchers drilled deep below the Indian Ocean and extracted rock cores. It was inside these cores that they found the traces of the ancient ocean, absorbed into porous rock formations and preserved there ever since. The small sample was squeezed out of an ancient rock formation from the Indian Ocean and sliced into pieces before being put into a hydraulic press which squeezes the moisture remnant out of its pores. The team tested the samples aboard their ship and found that the water was far saltier than that found in the Indian Ocean today. Back in the lab, they did more specific testing to examine the elements and isotopes, or variants of a particular element. The team found that all of their results seemed out of place in the modern ocean, according to the New Scientist. They said that the samples indicated that they came from a time when the ocean was significantly saltier, colder and more chlorinated. These are conditions that scientists think sea water would have been during the Last Glacial Maximum, when sea levels dropped to hundreds of feet below current levels. At the time of the last Ice Age, massive sheets of ice covered much of North America, Northern Europe and Asia. Researchers found the ice while drilling sediment core samples out of the underwater limestone deposits in the Maldives in South Asia 'From all indications, it looks pretty clear we now have an actual piece of this 20,000-year-old ocean,' lead study author Clara Blattler, an assistant professor of geophysical sciences at the University of Chicago. For decades, scientists have been studying the Earth's last ice age, also called the Last Glacial Maximum which is thought to have lasted 100,000 years, by looking coral fossils and seafloor sediments. If all of the results are valid, the new samples could provide scientists with clues on how the ocean reacted to the geophysical swings of the last ice age. The research could also further out understanding these shifts and lead to improved climate models. Ms Blattler said, as 'any model you build of the climate has to be able to accurately predict the past.' The study is to be published in the July 2019 issue of the journal Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta. African elephant poaching is in decline as experts found the amount of the enormous animals being slaughtered has been decreasing since 2011. Figures show that more than ten per cent of Africa's elephants were illegally killed that year as the poaching epidemic reached its peak. The figure slid to just four per cent in 2017 and it is believed the drop in deaths is due to declining demand for ivory in China. Conservationists are tentative about the good news however, saying more work and education is needed in order to ensure the long-term survival of the species. Between 10,000 and 15,000 elephants are slain every year it is believed, rapidly diminishing the estimated population of just 350,000 elephants. Scroll down for video Figures show that at the peak of sub-Saharan poaching more than ten per cent of Africa's elephants were being illegally killed. This dropped to four per cent in 2017 (stock) Data on the amount of killings was gathered by assessing how many carcasses were recorded at 53 sites across 29 countries and found the peak of poaching was in 2011 with more than 105 of elephants in Africa slaughtered. the current figure is closer to 4% (pictured) Data on the amount of killings was gathered by assessing how many carcasses were recorded at 53 sites across 29 countries from the MIKE (Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants) programme. One of the authors of the study, Dr Colin Beale, from the University of York, said: 'We are seeing a downturn in poaching, which is obviously positive news, but it is still above what we think is sustainable so the elephant populations are declining. 'The poaching rates seem to respond primarily to ivory prices in South-East Asia and we can't hope to succeed without tackling demand in that region.' The study authors have not attributed the clear drop in elephant mortality rates to the 2017 ban in Chinese ivory trade as the issue is likely far more complicated. Paul De Ornellas, Chief Wildlife Officer at WWF told MailOnline: 'The overall poaching rate of African Elephant remains at a level below the peak slaughter we saw during the first half of the decade. 'However it remains at worrying levels, with a mixed picture across the continent. Elephant populations in central Africa, for example, are continuing to sustain heavy losses as a result of ivory trafficking. 'And we are still seeing large scale seizures of ivory in Asia. This shows that the illegal ivory trade remains a major threat to African elephants across much of their range. 'The international community needs to maintain efforts to strengthen law enforcement and reduce consumer demand, if we are to stamp out this illegal trade and secure a long term future for elephants.' Education is essential to tackling the slaughter of elephants to prevent it from becoming a viable market, the researchers say. It is believed the drop in animal deaths is due to declining demand for ivory in China. Conservationists are tentative about the good news however, saying more work is needed in order to ensure the long-term survival of the species (stock) Dr Beale added: 'We need to reduce demand in Asia and improve the livelihoods of people who are living with elephants in Africa; these are the two biggest targets to ensure the long-term survival of elephants. 'Elephants are the very definition of charismatic megafauna, but they are also important engineers of African savannah and forest ecosystems and play a vital role in attracting ecotourism so their conservation is a real concern.' Severin Hauenstein, a Biometry and Environmental System analyst from the University of Freiburg, added: 'This is a positive trend, but we should not see this as an end to the poaching crisis. ARE ELEPHANTS SAFE FROM EXTINCTION? African elephants (Loxodonta africana) are listed as 'vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List which monitors the risk of extinction to animals. They have been widely hunted and illegally poached for many years for their tusks. The ivory is of high value to man places in Asia but is now banned in many countries. A ban came into place in 2017 prohibiting the sale of ivory in China, which was heralded as a major win for conservation of the giants. They are also important engineers of African savannah and forest ecosystems and play a vital role in attracting ecotourism. The levels of poaching have been on the decline in recent years but conservationists caution that efforts to protect them should not be alleviated in light of this news. Advertisement 'After some changes in the political environment, the total number of illegally killed elephants in Africa seems to be falling, but to assess possible protection measures, we need to understand the local and global processes driving illegal elephant hunting.' The publication of the research in the journal Nature Communications comes less than a week after it emerged Botswana lifted its ban on elephant hunting. It said the elephant population had increased and farmers' livelihoods were being impacted and resumption of hunting would be permitted. A prohibition on elephant hunting was introduced in the southern African country in 2014 by then-president Ian Khama, a keen conservationist. Lisa Rolls Hagelberg, Head of Wildlife Communication and Ambassador Relations, UN Environment, said of the latest study: 'Ensuring a future with wild elephants, and myriad other species, will require stronger laws and enforcement efforts and genuine community engagement; however, as long as demand exists supply will find a way to quench it. 'Only about six per cent of the current funding going towards tackling illegal trade in wildlife is directed to communication. 'For long-term success, governments need to prioritise comprehensive social and behavioural change interventions to both prevent and reduce demand. We have the know how, now we need to invest to truly influence environmental consciousness.' Facebook's efforts to crack down on misinformation and sensational content have reduced the time spent at the leading social network, researchers said Tuesday. The average amount of time US adults spent at Facebook dropped by three minutes per day last year and will likely decrease by another minute next year, to a total of 37 minutes daily, according to the research firm eMarketer. The report suggests that Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg's efforts to focus on safety and remove divisive and hateful content could be having an economic impact. Scroll down for video Facebook's efforts to crack down on misinformation and sensational content have reduced the time spent at the leading social network eroding, researchers said Tuesday Earlier this month, the social media giant altered its News Feed algorithms yet again, in order to prioritize posts from family and friends, as well as links you might consider 'most worthwhile.' 'Facebook's continued loss of younger adult users, along with its focus on down-ranking clickbait posts and videos in favor of those that create "time well spent," resulted in less daily time spent on the platform in 2018 than we had previously expected,' said eMarketer principal analyst Debra Aho Williamson. 'Less time spent on Facebook translates into fewer chances for marketers to reach the network's users.' Money taken in from digital ads are the leading source of revenue at Facebook, which has 2.4 billion monthly active users around the world. A bright spot for Facebook is that daily US engagement is creeping up at its image and video focused social network Instagram, where eMarketer expected it to rise a minute this year to 27 minutes and then another minute per year through 2021. 'Features like Stories, influencer content and video are all contributing to more engagement and a slow but steady uptick in time spent on Instagram,' Williamson said. Meanwhile, time people in the US spend at Instagram rival Snapchat has seemingly plateaued at 26 minutes daily. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has made changes to the firm's News Feed algorithms several times, in order to prioritize posts from friends and family, as well as trusted news sources The social media firm's recent application redesign seems to have failed to boost engagement, according to eMarketer. A broader trend seen last year was for Americans to spend less time at online social networks, and the overall engagement was expected by eMarketer to remain unchanged this year at almost one hour, 14 minutes per day. 'Gains in digital video viewing are putting pressure on social time, and gaming is also creating new competition for user attention,' Williamson said. 'Though we can't say there is a direct cause-effect relationship, these activities do at least threaten users' engagement with social media.' It is a question that has long puzzled scientists - exactly why are tigers orange? One might think it makes them more conspicuous - particularly against a leafy green forest background. William Blake summed it up in his famous poem known by generations of schoolchildren: Tyger, tyger, burning bright/ In the forest of the night. But now the answer is at hand. While conspicuous to us, computer simulations of what the big cats look to the main animals they prey on, deer, shows a different picture. Scroll down for video While conspicuous to us, computer simulations of what the big cats look to the main animals they prey on, deer, shows a different picture WHICH ANIMALS ARE COLOURBLIND? The study simulating what colours preys of the tiger see when looking at the predator found that animals like deers are essentially red-green colour blind like some humans. This means they only pick up greens and blues and not oranges and reds. This means they are more sensitive to the blue-green portion of the spectrum (due to their eyes' high rod density) and less sensitive to light of long wavelengths (orange and red). Therefore the tiger appears green to deers rather than orange, which helps their camouflaging effect. Other animals that are red-green 'colourblind' include: wolves, coyotes, foxes, bulls, dogs and cats Advertisement Humans with normal colour vision, can see red, blue and green colours. But deer can only pick up blue and green light, they are effectively colourblind to the colour red, like some humans. It means the tigers orange colouration look green to them, allowing them to blend perfectly into the background, new research claims. Dr John Fennell at the University of Bristol and colleagues said that they used computers to estimate how detectable a given animal was. They did this by using images of the environment in which the animal lives, and then generating images to see whether the camouflage helps the animal to blend in. Dr Fennell writes that by simulating what the world looks like to animals who are dichromats - who cannot detect the difference between red and green - we also identify the optimum colours for concealment and visibility. Dr Fennell writes in the Royal Society Journal Interface: Consider the coat of a tiger (Felis tigris); it has fur that appears orange to a trichromat observer rather than some shade of green, though the latter should be more appropriate camouflage for an ambush hunter in forests. However, as illustrated, when viewed as a dichromat, the tigers colour is very effective. Dr Fennell tested out the theory on people, by screening images in which a red object was inserted in two backdrops. One was of temperate forest - for which pictures of Leigh Woods in North Somerset, and semi-arid conditions, in the Tabernas Desert in Almeria in Spain. Researchers measured how quickly the observers detected the sphere against each backdrop in images reproduced to simulate three-colour vision, and two colour vision. Humans with normal colour vision, can see red, blue and green colours. But deer can only pick up blue and green light, they are effectively colourblind to the colour red, like some humans (stock image) Observers were much quicker at detecting the images with three colours in both scenarios. The question then arises as to why tigers dont grow green coats. Dr Fennell and colleagues write that mammals are not able to produce green fur. To do so would require a significant change to mammalian biochemistry. There is only one mammal known to have green fur - and this is achieved through what might be considered as, well, cheating. A type of sloth looks green as green algae grows on it. The orange colour in a tigers coat is produced by a chemical called pheomelanin. Dr Fennell writes that an open question remains - why deer never evolved trichromatic vision - as this might help them to stop getting eaten. As an aside, Dr Fennell and colleagues question wartime claims that colourblind individuals were better at spotting camouflaged enemies than those with normal colour vision. This has not been replicated in laboratory tests, Dr Fennell added. In general, having three-colour vision is more effective for breaking camouflage he said. The research did not consider the role of the tigers dark stripes which help break up their silhouette, which are effective whatever type of vision an onlooker has. How orange tigers are varies in the wild. The extinct Balinese tiger had a very dark deep orange, which might have made it difficult to spot for colourblind prey, but may have meant humans had an easier time spotting it. Bengal tigers are typically redder, while the Amur tiger is more golden than orange. Tigers in northern regions such as Russia and north China typically have lighter coats, while the southern tigers found in Malaysia and Sumatra are typically darker. There have been reports of tigers without stripes - in the 1960s and as late as 1988 - but no photographs of these have ever been taken. Around 1 in 10,000 tigers - called melanistic are born white. Curiously, white tigers are often cross-eyed due to a genetic defect. More than 1,700 people people on a University of Colorado campus were unknowingly photographed as part of a facial recognition project funded by the U.S government. The study, originally carried out between 2012 and 2013 has been highlighted by several recent reports and raises ethical questions about researchers' methods, particularly the lack of consents from the project's subjects. Using a long-range surveillance camera to peer out of an office window at a campus in Colorado Springs, the study's author, Dr. Terrance Boult, captured more than 16,000 images of students, professors, and others during a period in 2012 and 2013. To help research facial recognition software the U.S. military funded research that recorded 1,700 subjects on a Colorado campus without their knowledge. Stock image The images, says Boult, formed the basis for a data set called 'Unconstrained College Students' which would be used to test the ability of a facial recognition algorithm to identify people in murky conditions -- many of the subjects swept up in the images were in less-than-ideal lighting and sometimes looking away or even down at their phones. Feasibly, this type of data would be useful the U.S. military and intelligence in helping to design facial recognition that can be used in reconnaissance or even more acute domestic surveillance. The database was made available to the public in 2016 but was eventually taken down this April according to the Denver Post. While none of the people captured by the camera's recordings were named and entities using the database were required to sign a legal agreement saying that they would not release any photos according to the Colorado Springs Independent, the research has still given rise to ethical questions. 'Its yet another area where were seeing privacy intrusions that disturb us,' said Bernard Chao, a privacy expert at Denver University who was interview by the Denver Post. The study by Boult is one many recent examples in which entities and corporations have used iamges of people to train facial recognition software without their consent. Among the chief concerns from skeptics of facial recognition software is that it may violate people's privacy and give way to a culture of mass surveillance. Stock image In a report from NBC News, the outlet revealed that cloud-based photo company, Ever used millions of users' photos to train a facial recognition algorithm being licensed for use by one of its corporate arms, Ever AI. Likewise, IBM used millions of photos sourced from photo-sharing website Flickr to train its own facial recognition software. Ethical question over the methods used to train advanced facial recognition software seem to mirror an increasing skepticism about the systems as a whole. Amazon recently killed an initiative to stop selling its facial recognition software, Rekognition, over concerns from some shareholders that it may be misused or sold to dubious governments while San Francisco became the first city in the U.S. to ban its use by law enforcement and other public agencies citing concerns over privacy and first amendment rights. A new study focused on one of Alaska's remote mountain ranges could turn previous geologic understanding upside down and realign potential for natural gas and oil beneath the surface. In a study published in Special Papers that analyzes geology in Alaska's Brook's Range, researchers from the University of Dartmouth say current mountains likely traveled from Greenland and areas in the Canadian Arctic much farther east than originally thought. The new research seems to contradict previous theories on how the region formed, which posited that faulting caused Alaska to rotate away from the Canadian Arctic about 125 million years ago. A new study of a remote region in the Arctic may rewrite the geological history and change estimates of fossil fuels that lie beneath the surface If this original theory were true, researchers say samples from the Brook's Range should match those in areas about 450 miles apart like Bank's Island and Victoria Island. Almost a decade of research, however, links the range's geology to areas 1,200 miles to the east and other evidence of the area's 'mountain building' process to collisions that date back 400 to 450 million years ago in the eastern Arctic. 'The geology of the northeastern Brooks Range does not match anything that we've studied in the neighboring region of North America,' said Justin Strauss, the lead researcher of the study. 'This complicates previous models for how you open this major ocean basin.' Instead of the previous 'rotation' theory, researchers say the mountains may have been formed by what is known as a 'strike-slip' fault which causes rocks and formations to move horizontally -- this same type of fault is similar to California's notorious San Andreas fault line. This geologic event caused regions from Greenland to shift to the western Canadian Arctic. In addition to helping illuminate the ancient history of what researchers call an 'understudied' region of the Arctic -- the range's remoteness has deterred many from conducting extensive studies -- the new information could have implications on country's interest in drilling and mining the region for fossil fuels. According to the United States Geological Society, the Arctic contains about 6 percent of the world's oil and 25 percent of the world's natural gas. The study does not predict exactly what impact new research may have on those estimates. Other estimates of the regions oil wealth have been even more generous, projecting that there could be as much as $30 trillion of resources beneath the Arctic surface. In a study published in Special Papers that analyzes geology in Alaska's Brook's Range, researchers from the University of Dartmouth say current mountains likely traveled from Greenland and areas in the Canadian Arctic much farther east than originally thought Because of the region's potential to provide a glut of natural resources, it has attracted the attention of countries around the world, including the United States, Russia, and Canada, all of whom are staking their own claim on the area. Russia in particular has shown an increasing interest in mining the barren Arctic landscape for resources and has drastically increased its military presence there. For those countries using geology to 'prove' swaths of land are within their domain, the study could have a drastic impact, researchers say. 'If countries are going to make legal claims based on geology or geophysics, they should consider these much older boundaries that we are highlighting. Governments will to need to confront the complexities of geology meeting politics,' said Strauss. Soon, you won't be forced to share headphones with your friend if you want to listen to music together on the go. Apple's next iPhone could feature a dual Bluetooth connection so that audio can be played on more than one device at a time, Mac Otakara reported, citing supply chain sources. It's not clear if all the devices in Apple's new iPhone lineup will have a dual Bluetooth connection. Scroll down for video Soon, you won't be forced to share headphones with your friend if you want to listen to music together on the go. Apple's next iPhone could feature a dual Bluetooth connection With this functionality, users would be able to send audio to two pairs of AirPods at once, or play a song on multiple Bluetooth speakers made by different companies. Another use case could allow iPhone owners to beam GPS directions to both a pair of headphones and their car's navigation system. Should Apple decide to include such a feature, it wouldn't be the first smartphone maker to do so. Samsung phones with Bluetooth 5.0 come with a feature called 'Dual Audio,' which allows users to play audio on more than one device. It comes as recent rumors suggest Apple's next iPhone could be able to be used as a portable charger. Apple is reportedly considering adding 'bilateral wireless charging' to its next-generation iPhone 11, which would let you charge other devices using the smartphone. With dual Bluetooth functionality, users would be able to send audio to two pairs of AirPods at once, or play a song on multiple Bluetooth speakers made by different companies Noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of TF International Securities, who has correctly predicted the tech giant's moves in the past, predicted the charging upgrade in his latest note to investors, according to MacRumors. Bilateral wireless charging, or two-way wireless charging, would let iPhones that support the Qi charging standard provide battery juice to other devices. This would be particularly useful for users who own a pair of Apple's AirPods headphones, which now come with a wireless charging case. With two-way charging, users could place their AirPods, or even another smartphone, on top of the next-generation iPhone to get a battery boost. 'We expect the new [late 2019] iPhone models will support two-way wireless charging,' Kuo wrote in the report, according to MacRumors. 'Though the iPhone is not the first high-end smartphone to be equipped with two-way wireless charging, this new function could make it more convenient for users to charge the new AirPods and create a better integrated user experience of the iPhone and the AirPods.' To allow for two-way charging, Apple will most likely need to equip the new iPhones with bigger batteries, Kuo said. Apple wouldn't be the first gadget maker to introduce two-way wireless charging. Samsung's new Galaxy S10 and S10+ have a feature called 'Wireless Powershare' that operates similarly The batteries will not only get bigger in size, but also in capacity, he added. Batteries for the follow-up to the iPhone XS Max will increase by 10 to 15 percent, while batteries for the iPhone XS successor could jump to become 20 to 25 percent larger, MacRumors said. The successor to the iPhone XR won't see as much of a battery boost, however, as Kuo expects the battery to increase no more than by about 5 percent. Apple would be debuting bilateral wireless charging for the first time in its device lineup if it chooses to with the iPhone 11. Meanwhile, other smartphone makers have introduced similar features already. Huawei's Mate 20 Pro, introduced last September, features bilateral wireless charging. Samsung then followed suit in February with its Galaxy S10 and S10+, which feature 'Wireless Powershare.' It transforms Samsung's flagship phones into mobile power banks, allowing users to place another Samsung device, such as another phone, their wireless earbuds or smartwatches directly on top of a phone to charge it. NASA has shared new details on a test anomaly that resulted in the destruction of SpaceXs Crew Dragon capsule last month. In a briefing to the NASA Advisory Council, the space agency revealed its been in talks with SpaceX every day since the disaster as the two investigate what went wrong. And, the latest information suggests the failure may not be as dire of a setback as it first appeared. Documents shared on Twitter by NASA Spaceflight and NASA Watch reporters reveal SpaceX has other Dragon capsules in development that will be advanced to meet its planned demonstrations. The update comes weeks after SpaceX finally confirmed that its crew capsule had been destroyed in the April 20 explosion. Scroll down for video A cloud of orange smoke rises over nearby Cape Canaveral Air Force Station as seen from Cocoa Beach, Fla., Saturday, April 20, 2019, after an 'anomaly' caused SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule to explode SpaceX is already working to revise the schedules for the tests of its abort system and subsequent demonstration as the investigation into the anomaly continues. SpaceX has multiple capsules in in build for the Dragon fleet and will advance assignments of capsules to specific missions, the document notes. Capsule previously intended for Demo-2 will be used for IFA [in-flight abort] and the capsule intended for Crew-1 will be used for Demo-2, etc. SpaceX is optimizing hardware configuration for each spacecraft based on intended use for those test flights. At the beginning of this month, officials involved the failed test of the Crew Dragon capsule confirmed for the first time that the vehicle was destroyed as the result of the yet-to-be-determined anomaly. In a statement that aired on NASA TV, SpaceX Vice President of Mission Assurance Hans Koenigsmann said the investigation so far indicates that the failure occurred during activation of the SuperDraco propulsion system, though NASA and SpaceX are still looking at all possible issues. The comments came amid mounting speculation in the weeks after the test, which sent plumes of dark orange smoke billowing into the air all around Florida's Cape Canaveral launch site. Documents shared on Twitter by NASA Spaceflight and NASA Watch reporters reveal SpaceX has other Dragon capsules in development that be advanced to meet its planned demonstrations Ahead of the announcement, an internal email sent to employees of a major NASA contractor and obtained by the Orlando Sentinel appeared to finally confirm that the Crew Dragon capsule did, in fact, explode during the test. Just keep in mind this is still very early in the investigating, Koenigsmann said, reading from a prepared statement. The investigation is led by both SpaceX and NASA. Both teams are carefully reviewing the telemetry data and all of the data that was collected during that test. Priority of this moment is to allow the teams to conduct thorough analysis before we come to any conclusions, Koenigsmann added. While NASA didnt reveal much about the so-called anomaly itself, the space agency did note that the issue occurred during tests on the second set of thrusters, the SuperDraco system. These thrusters will play a critical role in future launches with astronauts on board; they're designed to safely steer the capsule away from the rocket in the case of an emergency. The Dragon crew capsule that exploded was the same that flew to the International Space Station a month prior. Above, it is pictured during its approach to the ISS in March The problems arose after a smooth static fire of the smaller Draco thrusters, which are also used on the original, cargo version of the Dragon capsule. We powered up Dragon and it powered up as expected, Koenigsmann said. We completed test with the Draco Thrusters. We fired them in two sets, each 4 to 5 seconds, and that went very well. And then, just prior, before we went to fire the SuperDraco, there was an anomaly and the vehicle was destroyed. Koenigsmann confirmed there were no injuries, as previously reported, and noted that SpaceX had taken all of the proper safety measures ahead of the test. Its still too early to determine any cause, he added, but said the investigation so far indicates that the anomaly occurred during the activation of the Super Draco system. We are looking at all possible issues and the investigation is ongoing, Koenigsmann said. We have no reason to believe that there is an issue with the SuperDraco themselves those have been through about 600 tests at our test facility. We continue to have high confidence in that particular thruster. An email sent to employees after the SpaceX footage leaked warned them not to record activity inside the Kennedy Space Center if they do, they risk being fired For nearly two weeks up until that point, both NASA and SpaceX have remained tight-lipped about the failed test, even as footage circulating the internet claimed to show the moment the Crew Dragon capsule exploded. The leaked email sent to employees of the aerospace company Jacobs, who are working as contractors under NASA's Test and Operations Support Contract, directly addressed the footage as it warned employees not to record activity inside the Kennedy Space Center if they do, they risk being fired. At the time of the initial incident, NASA said it's too early to revise the target launch dates. 'This is why we test,' NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said in a statement the weekend of the test failure. 'We will learn, make the necessary adjustments and safely move forward with our commercial crew program.' She's hoping to find love as the new Bachelorette this year. And on Monday, Angie Kent made a hilarious appearance on Channel 10's new sketch comedy show, Kinne Tonight. The 29-year-old played a game of 'Tinder Charades' with host Troy Kinne, and was forced to mime a rather over-enthusiastic kiss. Hope she doesn't kiss the boys like that! New Bachelorette Angie Kent mimed smooching a HORSE during a game of 'Tinder Charades' on Monday's episode of Kinne Tonight Angie had to act out the Tinder opening line, 'I want to kiss you like two horses fighting over an apple'. At one point, she awkwardly imitated how a horse would kiss, pouting and placing her hands to her face as Troy made guesses. 'I'm just enjoying watching this,' Troy joked. Having a laugh! 'I'm just enjoying watching this,' said host Troy Kinne While he didn't guess the exact sentence, he came close and finished with: 'I want to kiss two horses like an apple... eating an apple!' After her appearance, Angie took to Instagram to say how thrilled she was to be on the very first episode of Kinne Tonight. 'What a hoot and honour to be on the first episode of Kinne Tonight,' she wrote. Familiar face: Angie, who rose to fame on Gogglebox Australia in 2015, will star on The Bachelorette later this year Angie, who rose to fame on Gogglebox Australia in 2015, will star on The Bachelorette later this year. 'I've always been the gal who loves to make everyone laugh, but now I reckon it's time to have someone laugh with me, rather than at me,' she said in March. 'I finally have enough self-love and I'm open to all of life's amazing possibilities. 'So, if 20 or so fellas want to get to know me and potentially end up being my partner in life and love I say, "Why not?" Who am I to turn down the chance to find love? Let's give it a red hot go!' Gisele Bundchen shared an inspiring throwback photo to her Instagram account on Monday. In the shot which was taken in 2008, Gisele, 38, is pictured planting a tree in a forest named after her in Brazil. The model smiled wide for the photograph, which she captioned saying how 'proud' she was to help nurture the Gisele Bundchen forest. Mother earth: Gisele Bundchen, 38, shared an inspiring throwback photo to her Instagram account on Monday The world-renowned supermodel showed off her pearly whites in the sweet picture, where she crouched down in the grass as a river and plush green vegetation laid behind her. Gisele looked up, smiling with the sun in her face, as she patted down the dirt around a tiny tree sprout. The beauty wore jeans, sandals and a white t-shirt for the special moment. Her blonde hair was down in a casual wave and her makeup was kept natural. Sharing the memory with her 15.3 million followers, Bundchen wrote: 'I was so happy and proud to plant the first tree in the Gisele Bundchen forest, back in 2008.' A force to reckon with: Sharing the memory with her 15.3 million followers, Bundchen wrote: 'I was so happy and proud to plant the first tree in the Gisele Bundchen forest, back in 2008' She then went on to explain some statistics about the area, saying there are 15 hectares in the Atlantic Forest, where the forest she started is located. (One hectare is equal to 100 acres.) Within that area, Gisele and her team planted 25,500 seedlings, which included 100 different species. 'Our goal was to improve the water quality of the rivers and lakes in the region of Campinas and Bahia,' Tom Brady's powerhouse wife wrote. 'The Atlantic Forest is rich in biodiversity but is currently one of the most endangered biomes on the planet,' she finished. Gisele has used her voice to defend the planet in the past as well. In fact, Elle Spain even recently called the mother of two an 'activist icon.' Home: The Brazilian supermodel turned environmental activist has been vocal about defending the Amazon rain forest in the past Gisele has planted trees in Nairobis Kibera and has helped detoxify the river near Horizontina, her hometown, through the Projeto Agua Limpa - a clean-water initiative she established with the help of her family. On top of that, she's starred in National Geographics documentary series Years of Living Dangerously, where she made her way through the Brazilian jungle to explore the intersection between deforestation and climate change. And, she's been a goodwill ambassador to the United Nations Environment Programme since 2009. Not to mention Harvard Medical School has honored her with its Global Environmental Citizen Award. Tom and Gisele have been married since 2009 and have a six-year-old daughter Vivian and nine-year-old son Benjamin together. Tom also has an 11-year-old son John with ex-girlfriend Bridget Moynahan, 48. Iggy Azalea has deleted all her social media accounts after her topless modelling photos were leaked without her permission. The Australian rapper's Twitter and Instagram accounts were deactivated on Monday, just hours after unpublished 'outtakes' from a 2016 GQ magazine photo shoot were circulated online. The leaked images, which were taken by photographer Nino Munoz, show Iggy posing with her breasts exposed in nothing but a pair of white pajama shorts. 'I feel violated': Iggy Azalea has been left 'blindsided' after topless photos she took for her plastic surgeon Dr Ashkan Ghavami in 2016 were leaked online over the weekend Iggy addressed the leak on Twitter on Monday before deleting her account. She wrote: 'A lot of high profile women have shot covers for GQ with a strategically placed hand, etc., covering their breasts etc. I always felt they were very beautiful covers, so I jumped at the opportunity. 'I hadn't seen other women's covers leak so I felt comfortable (on a closed set) to model for such a reputable magazine knowing only the images with my hands covering [my breasts] would be considered for print.' Iggy added that she 'never consented' to having her topless photos released, explaining that 'it was my understanding... GQ do not print topless pictures.' Vanished: Iggy's Twitter and Instagram accounts were deactivated on Monday, just hours after unpublished 'outtakes' from a 2016 GQ magazine photo shoot were circulated online Full statement: Iggy addressed the leak on Twitter on Monday before deleting her account She continued: 'There was no reason for anyone to have kept the outtakes from the shoot. I'm surprised and angry that they were not immediately deleted after the final images were selected. 'Today I am a ball of negative emotions. I feel blindsided, embarrassed, violated, angry, sad, and a million other things. Not solely because I did not consent to this but also because of the vile way people have reacted.' She went on to criticise trolls for making vulgar comments in response to the topless photo leak, saying that reading them made her feel physically ill. Deleted: Iggy concluded her statement by saying she planned to take a break from social media to escape the negativity Iggy concluded her statement by saying she planned to take a break from social media to escape the negativity. Meanwhile, photographer Nino Munoz issued his own statement via Instagram on Tuesday morning, writing: 'My heart goes out to anyone this situation has affected. Im utterly outraged and will not rest until justice is served.' 'I'm outraged and saddened to find out that images of mine were stolen and published without my permission. There is currently an investigation underway. Posting these stolen images is illegal and anyone who has done so will be prosecuted.' 'I empathise with any discomfort that this situation has caused to anyone that is involved,' he concluded. GQ Australia editor Michael Christensen said: 'We were very disappointed to learn that outtakes from a 2016 photo shoot which were not approved or intended for publication appear to have been stolen from the photographer. 'We understand an investigation is underway and join the condemnation of the publication of these images.' Context: Censored images from Iggy's 2016 photo shoot are still available on GQ's website , along with a story explaining how the topless photos were not intended for publication but were a 'birthday gift' for her plastic surgeon Dr Ashkan Ghavami Censored images from Iggy's 2016 photo shoot are still available on GQ's website, along with a story explaining how the topless photos were not intended for publication but were a 'birthday gift' for her plastic surgeon Dr Ashkan Ghavami. Dr Ghavami had performed Iggy's breast augmentation a year before the photos were taken, and the musician has praised his work in the past. Meanwhile, it's not the first time Iggy has quit social media without warning. Back in 2015, she deactivated her Instagram and Twitter accounts after she was body-shamed by trolls while on holiday. 'I don't care about being relevant. I just want to live my life,' she said at the time. 'That's just human decency and if it's hard for you to understand then you have a warped sense of reality.' Dannii Minogue dedicated a sweet tribute to her big sister Kylie Minogue in honour of her 51st birthday on Tuesday. The 47-year-old former X Factor judge shared a throwback photo of herself and her sister from when they were children. 'Happy Birthday to my big sister. Now for a new year of fun and festivities. Love from Sister Disco xx,' Dannii captioned the cute photo. Skater girls: Dannii Minogue, 47, (left) dedicated a sweet birthday tribute to her her big sister Kylie Minogue (right) on her 51st birthday while sharing a throwback snap from their childhood on Tuesday Kylie responded, sharing a series of love heart emojis and writing, 'Always!!!' They appear to have been sitting on a step at the back of a house, with both girls seen wearing roller-skates. The photo appears to have been taken in the late 1970's, with both Kylie and Dannii dressed in clothes from that decade. So cute! 'Happy Birthday to my big sister. Now for a new year of fun and festivities. Love from Sister Disco xx,' Dannii wrote on Instagram. Pictured together at a Christmas concert in London in December 2015 Best friends: The sisters have always enjoyed a close relationship. Pictured together at the Music Industry Trust Awards in London in October 2007 Dannii was dressed in a pair of khaki pants and a matching floral print button-up shirt. Her shoulder-length brown hair was worn straight and loose, and was tucked behind one ear. Meanwhile, Kylie is seen wearing blue jeans and a black jumper, her mop of wavy light brown hair obscuring much of her face. Inspiration: Dannii revealed she's always looked to Kylie for guidance during a 2017 interview with 9Honey. Pictured together at the ELLE Style Awards in London in February 2005 In the photo, Dannii is seen holding what appears to be a toy kitten, while beaming at the camera. Her big sister is seen looking down at the toy on her lap, with what appears to be a frisbee sitting on her own lap. The sisters have always enjoyed a close relationship, with Dannii revealing she's always looked to Kylie for guidance during a 2017 interview with 9Honey. Hero status: 'My sister's always been incredible,' Dannii told 9Honey in 2017. Pictured together at the ELLE Style Awards in London in February 2010 'My sister's always been incredible,' Dannii told the publication at the time. '[She's] always a tower of strength, and very classy with how she handles everything. 'My sister is my go-to for advice. And always when I look at her, she's physically a tiny little thing, and you just think, 'Where does all this strength come from?'' She is a doting mother to her children Theodore James, two, and Amelia, five, whom she shares with husband Peter Andre. And Emily Andre has bravely expressed her guilt over juggling parenthood with her work duties in a new interview with OK! magazine. While insisting she serves as a good role model to her children by balancing her two roles, the junior doctor, 29, gushed over life with her supportive partner, 46, who she admitted can be 'quite panicky' when she's away from home. Candid: Emily Andre has bravely expressed her guilt over juggling parenthood with her work duties in a new interview with OK! magazine When asked about the pressures of being a working mother, the TV personality told the publication: '[Guilt] is normal.... I want to be a good role model to them and for them to see you can have a balance between work and being a parent.' The Taunton native went on to explain the difference between her and Pete's approach to parenting: 'I have to send him messages with instructions sometimes, but I try not to. Generally hes very good. Hes a great dad. 'Its about having a calm head and thats one thing Im probably better at than Pete. Pete gets quite panicky. Working hard: The junior doctor, 46, is a doting mother to her children Theodore James, two, and Amelia, five, with Emily, whom she shares with husband Peter (pictured with Amelia back in 2014) 'It is tough': While insisting she serves as a good role model to her children by balancing her two roles, the TV personality gushed over life with her supportive partner, 46, who she admitted can be 'quite panicky' when she's away from home 'It is tough... but Im lucky because Pete is very supportive and my work help me out with hours and make sure I leave on time', she added. Emily's interview comes after TV star Peter revealed he has been inspired by royalty to expand his family with Emily. The Mysterious Girl hitmaker said the arrival of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's son Archie Harrison has got him considering a fifth child. Writing in his new! magazine column, Peter, who also shares daughter Princess, 11, and son Junior, 13, with ex wife Katie Price, told how he would love to expand his family in the future, but doctor Emily has put him on a sex ban. Blended family: Mysterious Girl hitmaker Peter also shares daughter Princess, 11, and son Junior, 13, (pictured in July 2018) with ex wife Katie Price He shared: 'Since the arrival of Harry and Meghan's son Archie, I've started thinking: 'Should we try for another one?' 'I'd love to. I know the joyful feelings they're experiencing right now and it brings it all back home.' However, Peter added that Emily is not as keen on having another child and joked the pair haven't been getting intimate lately as a result: 'Emily wants me to sleep on the other side of the bed now though.' Broody: The musician said the arrival of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 's son Archie Harrison has got him considering a fifth child (pictured earlier this month) Eliminated MasterChef contestant Leah Milburn-Clark, 22, was sent packing during Monday night's episode after failing to impress the judges with her seafood paella. Now, Leah has admitted that her elimination experience was so bad that she's refused to make the famous Spanish dish since leaving the show. 'Seeing that paella loaded with seafood arrive in the kitchen, I was terrified!' Leah told 10 Daily of the moment she realised she'd be making paella in her final elimination challenge. 'I haven't cooked it since!' MasterChef's Leah Milburn-Clark, 22, has revealed the 'terrifying' dish she refuses to make make following her shock elimination 'Me and fish don't have the best relationship as, unfortunately, I displayed for Rick Stein last week,' she explained, referring to her ill-fated attempt at cooking for the celebrity chef last week. 'Fair to say, I haven't cooked paella since!' Leah declared. Monday night's elimination challenge was presented by world-renowned chef Leno Lattarulo, who challenged contestants Anushka Zargaryan, Kyle Lyons and Leah to recreate his award-winning paella. Staying far away: Leah has admitted that her elimination experience was so bad that she's refused to make the famous Spanish dish paella since leaving the show Despite Leah having some confidence, her dish received the lowest score of the three after she burnt the bottom of the pan, causing a burnt flavour to penetrate the entire dish. 'That's charcoal,' Judge Matt Preston remarked during the judging, while fellow judge Gary Mehigan added: '(It's) a massive problem for me, that burnt taste.' Leah was eventually axed from the program. Something's fishy! Monday night's elimination challenge was presented by world-renowned chef Leno Lattarulo, who challenged contestants Anushka Zargaryan, Kyle Lyons and Leah to recreate his award-winning paella Since leaving the competition, Leah has stayed away from enormous rice dishes and is focusing on her grazing table business, Tables and Cheese. In a nod to her passion for theatre and the arts, Leah also plans to open a theatrical-style restaurant in the near future. MasterChef Australia airs Sunday to Thursday nights at 7.30pm. Facing the judging panel: Despite Leah having some confidence, her dish received the lowest score of the three after she burnt the bottom of the pan, causing a burnt flavour to penetrate the entire dish Joe Hildebrand has jokingly accused Carrie Bickmore of 'stealing' his unborn daughter's name. The Studio 10 panellist made the bizarre claim on Tuesday, saying that Carrie took inspiration from him and his wife, Tara. The Project host welcomed her third child in December, a baby girl named Adelaide, but it turns out Joe and Tara also wanted that name for their daughter. Joking around: Joe Hildebrand (right) has jokingly accused Carrie Bickmore of 'stealing' the name of his unborn daughter. Pictured on Studio 10 'Carrie Bickmore stole our baby name. She stole it prematurely,' he said. 'We're going to call our daughter Adelaide.' When Joe's fellow panellists pointed out that Carrie gave birth before Tara, Joe replied: 'I said she stole it prematurely'. 'Tara really wanted the name Adelaide, it's also my favourite city,' he added. Carrie and her partner Chris Walker welcomed their daughter Adelaide in December. She is also mother to four-year-old daughter Evie, whom she shares with Chris, and 11-year-old son Oliver from her marriage to late husband Greg Lange. Meanwhile, Joe announced his wife Tara's pregnancy last month. They are already parents to daughter Bonnie, two, and son Henry, five. Baby joy: Carrie and her partner Chris Walker welcomed their daughter Adelaide in December In a recent article for Kidspot, Joe wrote: '[The pregnancy] fills me with both great relief and great fear. 'The relief is that I will not be headbutted in the nuts for the first ten years of her life and the fear is that for the second ten I will have absolutely no idea what she's talking about.' Studio 10 airs weekdays from 8:30am on Channel 10 A Las Vegas casino after being accused by Meek Mill of having a ban on black rappers said Monday that he was turned away because the club was at capacity. The 32-year-old rapper was prevented from entering a concert Saturday at the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Casino by security guards who threatened him with arrest. The Cosmopolitan told TMZ that it has a 'zero tolerance for discrimination' policy and the incident was not race-related. Full capacity: Meek Mill, shown last month in Philadelphia, was stopped from entering a concert Saturday at the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas The rapper was headed to its Marquee Dayclub where DJ Mustard was performing. 'Marquee Dayclub had reached capacity per Las Vegas Fire Marshall code. Earlier that day, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police had been called onsite to manage a larger than usual venue crowd,' the casino said. Their statement added: 'Accordingly, when Marquee Dayclub was contacted in advance of Meek Mill's arrival, security staff clarified that he would not be granted access because of capacity issues, in accordance with both club and resort policy. Upon his arrival, it was reiterated to Meek Mill and his team for a second time that access to the venue was not permitted.' The statement also said, 'Meek Mill refused to depart property and was then informed that any continued attempt would result in trespassing.' Altercation: In videos shared by TMZ and to the rapper's own Twitter, he can be seen speaking through the window of his vehicle with casino security members who threatened him with arrest for trespassing In a video shared by TMZ and to the rapper's own Twitter on Saturday, he can be seen speaking through the window of his vehicle with casino security members. The first part of the conversation was cut-off by the security guard who seemed to be alleging that Meek was involved in some kind of physical altercation during a previous visit to the casino. The Ima Boss rapper (real name: Robert Rihmeek Williams) claimed that was 'impossible' as he'd visited the casino only once before when he accompanied fellow rapper and former girlfriend Nicki Minaj to a Jay-Z show. When he and his own security pressed the employee for details about the alleged altercation, he punted, claiming he didn't know the details and that they'd need to contact the casino's vice-president. 'This comes from way higher up than me,' one guard allegedly said, according to Meek's lawyer Joe Tacopina. Accusations: The security guard claimed that Meek was involved in some kind of previous altercation at the casino, though Meek later denied that, saying he'd only visited the casino once with Nicki Minaj for a Jay-Z show Passing the buck: The guard told the rapper and his entourage that they were trespassing and that they'd need to contact the organization's vice-president for more information Tacopina also responded Monday to TMZ about the Cosmopolitan's explanation that the dayclub was filled to capacity. 'The assertion that the Cosmopolitan denied Meek because of capacity concerns at Marquee Dayclub is outright false. In the recorded video, Meek also inquired about getting a meal at one of the hotel's restaurants, yet their security team continued to deny Meek and said he would be arrested for trespassing regardless of location in the premises. The Cosmopolitan's conduct continues to be deplorable,' he said. Meek also responded Monday to the hotel's statement on Twitter pointing out that he was told he would be arrested 'just for stepping on their property' even if he went to eat elsewhere at the establishment. No sense: Meek also responded Monday to the Cosmopolitan's statement saying it 'doesn't even make sense' The rapper earlier took to social media to accuse the casino of racially profiling him. 'If you come from our culture you should never step foot in the cosmopolitan hotel they just really racist as hell,' he wrote. 'Something really has to be done in Las Vegas what they doing to black people!' Not holding back: The rapper took to social media to accuse the casino of racially profiling him 'They telling black rappers they are banned from properties they own without incident ... they just told me I was trespassing and I will be arrested I stepped in that hotel once at a jayz party without incident!' he added in a subsequent tweet. He followed up his outraged posts with a legal threat. 'I needs lawyers ASAP yall not gone treat me like Im just a rapper and expect me to be quiet.' Furious: Meek claimed that the hotel was banning black rappers from it's property Strong accusation: Joe Tacopina, Meek's lawyer, claimed he spoke with 'a well-placed person inside the hotel' who told him that a group of Vegas hotels have been attempting to keep rappers off their premises Tacopina, Meek's lawyer, claimed he spoke with 'a well-placed person inside the hotel' who told him that a group of Vegas hotels have been attempting to keep rappers off their premises. He labeled the alleged actions racist, saying, 'They wouldn't ban Vanilla Ice.' On Instagram, Meek accused the cabal of casinos of taking black artists' money when it suited them. 'Some of these casinos have a bunch of Tatics to keep the level of blacks down .... but love to take our money!!!! This happens to a lot of black entertainers not just me either!! I felt crazy being put out by these white men for no reason!' Profiling: 'Some of these casinos have a bunch of Tatics to keep the level of blacks down .... but love to take our money!!!! This happens to a lot of black entertainers not just me either!!' wrote Meek on Instagram; shown March 13 in New York City Later on Saturday, TMZ obtained a letter written by Mill's lawyer officially accusing the Cosmopolitan of racially profiling his client. '... we have learned that the Cosmopolitan maintains a list of African American recording artists who should be denied access for no other reason than than their culture and skin color. Such course of conduct constitutes discrimination per se, in violation of state and federal law, and exposes you to significant monetary damages,' he wrote.' '...we urge you to promptly issue an apology to Mr. Williams and grant him immediate access. In the event you fail to heed this one and only warning, we intend to pursue all legal recourse against you.' Legal miscarriage: Meek was in and out of court (and jail) in a serious of interactions with Judge Genece Brinkley, who was alleged investigated by the FBI for her conduct in his trial, according to Page Six; pictured April 18 in Los Angeles Though Meek claimed not to have had any previous negative experiences at the Cosmopolitan, he was involved in a long legal saga that started when he was arrested for possessing a firearm and assaulting a police officer when he was 18. Subsequent legal confrontations were handled by the same judge, Judge Genece Brinkley. Mill was in and out of court, and also behind bars, due to later alleged parole violations, though Brinkley was criticized for her judicial conduct, and an FBI investigation was allegedly launched into her participation in Mill's case, according to Page Six. Last year, the Philadelphia District Attorney's office petitioned Brinkley to release Mill from jail due to potential mishandling of his initial arrest in 2007. She refused, though the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ordered him to be released in April of last year. It's fair to say that Roxy Jacenko lives by the philosophy: 'Work hard, play hard'. And the 39-year-old PR queen spared no expense this week when she jetted to China for a whirlwind 24-hour business trip. During her visit, she stayed at the five-star Four Seasons Hotel in Guangzhou. Lap of luxury! Take a look inside Roxy Jacenko's five-star hotel in China that was named one of the world's best - as she enjoys a whirlwind 24-hour business trip Earlier this month, Forbes magazine claimed that the hotel has some of the most extravagant bedroom suites in the world. A basic room at the Four Seasons starts from $300 a night, while the more lavish penthouse apartments cost upwards of $800 a night. Inside, the rooms feature ornate marble bathrooms, oversized beds and floor-to-ceiling windows to make guests feel right at home. Lavish: During her trip to China, Roxy stayed at the five-star Four Seasons Hotel in Guangzhou Splashing out: A basic room at the Four Seasons starts from $300 a night, while the more lavish penthouse apartments cost upwards of $800 a night Luxury: Inside, the rooms feature ornate marble bathrooms, oversized beds and floor-to-ceiling windows to make guests feel right at home The hotel is situated at the top of a business skyscraper and features an infinity pool, sweeping views of the city and a stunning sky-lit atrium. The venue has been described as an 'architectural marvel in the clouds'. Speaking to Daily Mail Australia on Tuesday, Roxy revealed she spent just 24 hours in China but it was 'well worth the trip'. 'I was working on sourcing components for my new Roxy Jacenko Accessory range,' she explained. Fancy: The hotel is situated at the top of a business skyscraper and features an infinity pool, sweeping views of the city and a stunning sky-lit atrium High praise: The venue has been described as an 'architectural marvel in the clouds' Quick trip: In a photo shared to Instagram on Sunday, Roxy posed in her lavish hotel room alongside the caption: 'Breakfast in Sydney - dinner in China' What's next? Roxy was in China sourcing components for her new hair accessories range In a photo shared to Instagram on Sunday, Roxy posed in her lavish hotel room alongside the caption: 'Breakfast in Sydney - dinner in China'. Roxy recently launched a new range of adult hair accessories, after her company Pixies Bows (named after her daughter, Pixie Curtis) became a success. She also runs several other businesses, including Sweaty Betty PR, Ministry of Talent and Social Union. Happy birthday wishes are in order for Lily-Rose Depp. The beautiful daughter of Johnny Depp just turned 20 on Monday, which she celebrated by sharing a stunning selfie on Instagram all done up for her big day. Lily wore a tiger print top and was decked out in heavy makeup, proving she's no longer a teen. Happy birthday! Lily-Rose Depp just turned 20 on Monday, which she celebrated by sharing a stunning selfie on Instagram all done up for her big day The photo revealed Lily all dolled as she rang in two decades on earth. She wore an orange and black cheetah top for the picture that showed the beauty from her chest up. Lily tilted her head back as she gazed slightly off camera. Her makeup was done with a daring cat-eyed eyeliner that continued from the corners of her eyes all the way through the crease of her eyelids. The Dancer star wore her luscious strawberry blonde hair in voluminous curls. And her lips were covered with a light matte pink. Depp exuded sex appeal for the shot which she captioned, 'She's twentea.' Hot: Depp exuded sex appeal for the shot which she captioned, 'She's twentea' Some of Lily's famous friends also took to social media to celebrate the bombshell's birth. Fellow model Stella Maxwell, 29, posted a photo of the girls modeling together and wrote, 'Happy birthday lil,' and tagged the A-Lister. Assassination Nation actress Hari Nef, 26, posted a seductive picture of the two ladies together on Monday. In it, Lily lounges on a bed, leaning back against Hari, as she sticks her tongue out, licking a hotel linens card. Model muses: Fellow model Stella Maxwell, 29, posted a photo of the girls modeling together and wrote, 'Happy birthday lil,' and tagged the A-Lister Bday queen: Assassination Nation actress Hari Nef, 26, posted a seductive picture of the two ladies together on Monday Her other friends, such as a brunette named Kemme, and a beauty named Alana, also sang Lily's praises. Through those posts, Lily is seen sharing a drumstick with her gal pal at Disneyland. And in the other, the girls embrace after taking a dip in the water behind them. Celebrations: Her other friends, such as a brunette named Kemme, and a beauty named Alana, also sang Lily's praises Wet and wild: In the other, the girls embrace after taking a dip in the water behind them Coming up, the starlet will be seen in new movie, Dreamland. Appearing with Armie Hammer and Michelle Rodriguez, Lily-Rose will act in the film about a drug trafficker smuggling Fentanyl between the U.S. and Canada. The Vogue Cover Girl will also be seen in The King and Moose Jaws coming up. Lily-Rose is the eldest child of Vanessa Paradis, 46, and Johnny Depp, 55. They also share a 16-year-old son together, John Christopher Depp III. Since her parent's separation in 2012 after a 14 year relationship, Lily-Rose currently divides her time between Los Angeles and Paris. Princess: Lily-Rose is the eldest child of Vanessa Paradis, 46, and Johnny Depp, 55. Pictured at the 2019 Met Gala Vanessa is now remarried to Samuel Benchetrit after first meeting him on the set of Dog in 2018. As for Johnny, he also went on to date again and married Amber Heard in 2015 before their 2017 divorce and prior to both the women, he was wed to Lori Anne Allison from 1983 to 1986. His model and actress daughter is rumoured to be dating Oscar-nominated actor Timothee Chalamet, who went to the same Manhattan performing arts high school as Ansel Elgort. Lily-Rose and Timothee are currently working on The King together with Robert Pattinson. Timothee was asked about the rumoured romance at the Golden Globes, which he attended on the arm of his mother Nicole Flender. 'I'm here with Mom,' the Call Me By Your Name and Lady Bird said to Access Hollywood when they brought up the subject. He and Lily-Rose have more than their acting careers in common - each of them has one parent who was born in the United States and one from France. The dramatic battle between 90 Day Fiance's star Larissa Dos Santos Lima and her ex-husband, Colt Johnson continues. This time, the feud is over claims made by Colt's mom, Debbie Johnson, who said Larissa, 33, is soon to be deported back to Brazil. Larissa quickly came to her own defense, posting a long message on Instagram Sunday to dispel the rumors. Trouble brewing: Larissa Dos Santos Lima, 33, fired back at ex-husband Colt Johnson's mom, Debbie Johnson, after she claimed Larissa will soon be deported to Brazil It all started early on Sunday when one fan commented on one of Debbie's photos and asked why Dos Santos had not returned to Brazil following her divorce with Johnson. Debbie replied to the question saying that someday the brunette will in fact me deported and that it just 'takes time.' From there, Larissa's lawyer told Us Weekly Debbie's statements were untrue. But, things didn't rest there, as Larissa also joined in on the conversation, shooting back at Debbie by Monday. Not so fast: Larissa also joined in on the conversation, shooting back at Debbie in a long post In a long note posted to the social media platform, Larissa wrote, 'I woke up this morning, to find messages sent to me, and posted about my legal status in the US,' 'This isnt true, everything about my status in the US is confidential and will not be disclosed by third parties that [are] not involved in any immigration process with me,' she said. She went on to explain that she's been trying to just live her life and 'allow the courts to handle everything,' as it's in 'their hands.' 'As many of you know, my court date is May 30th, it is the last and saddest chapter of my life and I want to finish it as soon as possible to finally have peace,' the influencer said. Larissa finished with a more pointed statement at her former mother-in-law saying, 'I will not accept defamation of any kind.' Divorced: Just three months after filing to end their marriage, 90 Day Fiance stars Colt Johnson and Larissa Dos Santos Lima are now legally single This stir comes days after her official divorce from Colt. Just three months after filing to end their marriage, the stars of 90 Day Fiance are now legally single. A Nevada judge made their divorce official on Tuesday, ending their marriage of just 11 months, according to TMZ. Colt and Larissa tied the knot in front of cameras for the TLC show 90 Day Fiance, but the relationship quickly went south. The pair agreed not to 'slander, defame, disparage or communicate untruths' each other, according divorce documents obtained by the website. Larissa and Colt will also not have to pay each other any spousal support. Turn for the worse: In January Larissa posted photos of deep cuts and scratches on her face and body, claiming they were inflicted during a fight she had with her husband The couple secretly tied the knot in June 2018, but just months later in January Larissa posted photos of deep cuts and scratches on her face and body, claiming they were inflicted during a fight she had with her husband. Authorities ultimately determined the wounds had been self-inflicted and that Larissa had been the aggressor in the fight, according to TMZ. She was subsequently arrested for domestic battery and charged with a misdemeanor for allegedly punching Colt in the head. During this time, Colt filed for divorce. Trouble in paradise: Colt filed for divorce after Larissa's domestic abuse allegations Larissa had been arrested twice before on domestic violence charges in Las Vegas, once in June and again in November last year. Both misdemeanor cases were subsequently dismissed. Colt and Larissa, who star on season six of TLC's 90 Day Fiance, met via social media. In March the exes hosted their own divorce parties on back-to-back days at Crazy Horse 3 strip club in Las Vegas. Larissa is now dating someone she met on the dating app Tinder. 'Right now, I don't rush anything. I don't want to make plans,' she told Us Weekly. I'm enjoying myself and we are serious, of course I feel really comfortable with him.' She recently opened up around her desire to 'living a normal life' with diabetes. And on Tuesday, Australian model Bambi Northwood-Blyth came closer to achieving that dream. Taking to Instagram, the model documented herself testing out a new glucose monitoring system to manage her Type 1 diabetes. Trial: Australian model Bambi Northwood-Blyth documented herself testing out a new glucose monitoring system to manage her Type 1 diabetes 'Soooooo... this is the G6, CGM, (Continuous Glucose Monitoring) system,' she wrote in the caption. 'I have had it for about 5 months now, and am loving it. Compared with taking 10 finger pricks a day - this sends a reading every 5 minutes (around 288 readings PER DAY, with no blood!) to my phone... and beeps when actions are needed.' In the video, Bambi lifted up her shirt and slightly pulled down her jeans so she could attach a sticker and clip-on button to her lower back. Graphic: In another video, Bambi appeared in a white robe and injected herself with a small needle in her stomach In another video, Bambi appeared in a white robe and injected herself with a small needle in her stomach. It comes after Bambi revealed on Instagram she's 'setting my sights on new horizons and living a normal life with Type 1 diabetes'. The deeply personal message was accompanied by a photo of Bambi showing off her remarkably lithe arms, tiny waist and slender legs on a Paris balcony. Living with a chronic illness: While the purpose of the Instagram post was to spruik Calvin Klein's new underwear range, Bambi also shared a deeply personal message with her fans Bambi, who is an ambassador for the organisation Beyond Type 1, revealed her battle with the condition in an interview with Harper's Bazaar in September 2018. The estranged wife of fashion designer Dan Single told the publication she was diagnosed at age 12. At the time, she saw her future as 'daunting'. 'I would have to have eight injections and take 10-12 blood tests a day,' she said. 'It's taken me a long time to talk about my condition publicly.' Zac Efron kept plenty cool on Memorial Day. The 31-year-old actor immersed himself in a freezing cold bath, presumably after a workout, on the American holiday Monday. In a series of clips on Instagram Stories, the San Luis Obispo, California native was seen exiting a heated sauna and heading straight toward a waiting tin bath full of cold water. Fire and ice: Zac Efron, 31, immersed himself in a freezing cold bath, presumably after a workout, on Memorial Day Monday in a series of clips he shared on Instagram Stories Efron, who recently played Ted Bundy in the Netflix film Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil And Vile, panted a bit amid the extremes, which he illustrated with a flame emoji and a frosty emoji next to one another. Once in, Efron, who's recovering from surgery after tearing his ACL snowboarding in January, dunked his head under the water before coming back up and tagged comic Kevin Hart, challenging him to do the same. The fitness-geared star, who played Matt Brody in the 2017 Baywatch film, presumably put himself through the extremes amid what experts call a rise of ice baths in an effort to speed up recovery and reduce inflammation. Treasured times: Efron was spending his weekend with his family, as he posted a group shot on the social media site Yin-yang: Efron illustrated the difference in temperatures with a flame emoji and a frosty emoji next to one another Immersion: Efron, who's recovering from surgery after tearing his ACL snowboarding in January, dunked his head under the water before coming back up 'Ice baths have been around for a while, and theyre picking up steam and popularity,' Nick Clayton of the National Strength and Conditioning Association told Men's Health in March. Clayton continued: 'From a mental standpoint, youre challenging your body by being exposed to different stresses and stimuli, which makes you more resilient and prepares you for different challenges in the future.' Efron was spending his weekend with his family, as he posted a group shot on the social media site with the caption, 'Love you Grandma. Rest In Peace. We'll take good care of Grandpa for you.' Thriving: Efron recently played Ted Bundy in the Netflix film Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil And Vile Emerging: The Baywatch star pushed back his blonde locks as he sat up Ice bath challenge: Efron tagged Kevin Hart into the post, daring the comic to do the same Efron opened up about his grandmother Dotty's passing last month in an appearance on Ellen shortly after her death. 'May she rest in peace now ... she just passed a few days ago, so ... I'm a little sentimental right now,' he said, noting how his beloved late grandma would scrapbook his photos from teen magazines earlier in his career. In the appearance, the actor called his 91-year-old grandpa, an army veteran, his 'hero' and 'just the best guy.' She kicked off her career in front of the camera as a fashion model with a move from her home country in the Netherlands to the US in 1984 when she was 19. Fast forward 35-years and Famke Janssen put her catwalk skills on display when she took a stroll along the bustling streets of New York City with friend and former Hemlock Grove co-star Madeleine Martin. The 54-year-old X-Men actress showcased her lean figure in a yellow sleeveless dress, and at times the two friends shaded themselves from the glaring sun with a couple of umbrellas. Shining star: Actress Famke Janssen, 54, stunned with her sleeveless yellow dress and big wide smile during a walk along the streets of Manhattan on Memorial Day Monday The Dutch actress looked to be in great spirits from the look of her big wide smile in her eye-catching number. The piece, which came down to just above her knees, was equal parts fun and stylish with its subtle pleated design and cinched-in waist. She wore her raven tresses long and flowing well past the middle of her back with some added volume and a part on the slight left. Famke rounded out her ensemble with white sneakers and carried a black handbag that was adorned with two cherries, along with her umbrella. Fab: The Taken star was able to show off her toned figure in the bright number Mates: Janssen's friend and former Hemlock Grove co-star Madeleine Martin joined her Keeping safe: The pair carried umbrellas to shade themselves from the glaring sun In demand: Janssen currently has three films and a BBC series in some phase of production Stylish: The bright number was equal parts fun and stylish with its subtle pleated design and cinched-in waist Martin, who first came to prominence as a child actor on the hit Showtime series Californication, donned a full-length black short-sleeve dress with black sneakers. The 26-year-old also carried a stylish blue umbrella to avoid any unnecessary rays from the sun. Adding to her outfit, she slung a colorful bag over her shoulders and pulled her long black locks back into a loose ponytail. The X-Men star rounded out her ensemble with white sneakers and carried a black handbag that was adorned with two cherries, Bonding: The pair have been spotted together a number of times recently Lady in black! Martin donned a full-length black short-sleeve dress with black sneakers Big break: Marin first came to prominence as a child star on the hit series Californication Janssen and Martin worked together on the Netflix horror series Hemlock Grove. The Eli Roth-produced show ran for three season beginning in 2013. The final season premiered on the online streaming service in October 2015. Some of the other cast included the likes of Bill Skarsgard, Landon Liboiron, Dougray Scott, Penelope Mitchell and Freya Tingley. Janssen has also garnered headlines with roles in GoldenEye (1995), the X-Men film series (2000-2014), and the Taken film franchise (2008-2014), and TV hits Nip/Tuck (2004-2010) and How To Get Away With Murder (2015-2019). She currently has three films and a BBC series in some phase of production. Loving it: At one point, Janssen looked back and flashed a big smile towards her friend Cheeky: The actress got playful a number of times during the stroll Roxy Jacenko recently filmed a Kardashian-inspired reality show for Channel 10. And with the cameras constantly rolling, Roxy was firing on all cylinders to make sure producers got plenty of 'good content'. Sources tell Daily Mail Australia that the Sweaty Betty PR boss was 'barking orders and screaming at staff' at her Paddington headquarters. The Sweaty Betty screamer! Roxy Jacenko (pictured) 'barked orders at staff' and 'acted like Gordon Ramsay' while filming her Channel 10 reality show 'There was cameras all over the place and Roxy had no problem barking orders and screaming at staff,' said an insider. 'It was like she was pulling a Gordon Ramsay. As soon as the crew pressed record, she was cracking the whip and unleashed this mean alter-ego.' But as soon as the cameras stopped rolling, Roxy was 'perfectly pleasant' and 'back to normal', according to another source. They added: 'She knows how to put on a show and create good content. While she was hamming it up for the cameras, she's much nicer in reality. Putting on a show: 'It was like she was pulling a Gordon Ramsay,' a source told Daily Mail. 'As soon as the crew pressed record, she was cracking the whip and unleashed this alter-ego' 'She knows how to create good content': But as soon as the cameras stopped rolling, Roxy was 'perfectly pleasant' and 'back to normal', according to another source Roxy's inspiration? Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay (pictured) is known for his fiery temper on Hell's Kitchen, but isn't quite so hot-headed in real life I Am... Roxy! will air during Channel 10's pilot week in August this year. Produced by Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli, the show will follow Roxy, 39, as she navigates life as a business owner, tabloid fixture and working mother-of-two. If it performs well in the ratings and generates buzz on social media, I Am... Roxy! could be commissioned for a full season in 2020. Coming soon! I Am... Roxy! will air during Channel 10's pilot week in August this year Roxy previously appeared on The Celebrity Apprentice in 2013 and filmed a pilot for Channel Seven called 'The Sweat Box' in 2010 that never went to air. She has also written a series of novels about life in public relations, as well as a self-help book for PRs and influencers called Roxy's Little Black Book of Tips and Tricks. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Roxy Jacenko for comment. Supermodel Behati Prinsloo talks saving the rhinos and baby names while trying on a unique travel backpack with Victoria's Secret wings on a new episode of Ellen. The Nambian model, 31, revealed that she actually named first child Dusty Rose at DeGeneres' suggestion, though she was against it at first. 'Adam brought it to me pretty early on in my pregnancy, and he was like, "Ellen came up with this amazing name, Dusty," she explained. Behati on Ellen: Supermodel Behati Prinsloo talks saving the rhinos and baby names while trying on a unique travel backpack with Victoria's Secret wings on a new episode of Ellen While the supermodel said she loves Dusty Springfield, she didn't want to name her first child Dusty. 'I was like, "Dusty? That is not... my parents are going to think it's a piece of dust,"' she said, because her parents are Afrikans and 'English is not their first language,' but as the months went on, the name grew on her. She added that, while her husband Adam Levine wants to have five kids, she's thinking more along the lines of 'three or four' kids. 'Just by one. Adam can't have everything,' she said. Out and about: Ellen then asked if, while growing up in Namibia, she just saw rhinos and other animals just out and about Ellen then decided to bestow a special gift to the model, a special travel backpack complete with Victoria's Secret Angel wings. 'This will really come in handy,' Prinsloo said with a laugh, while modeling her special backpack for the crowd. The 31-year-old Victoria's Secret Angel also spoke about recently returning to her home country of Namibia in her work with Save the Rhino Trust. Poaching: The model added that the rhinos are being poached for their hair, which, in certain Asian countries, having rhino hair is a, 'form of status,' along with medicinal uses 'It made sense for me to be a part of this organization, because I'm from Namibia, my parents still live there,' she said.' 'We all know poaching is going on, and devastating things are happening, but I just wanted to join and make a difference, use my voice to let people know, spread awareness,' she added. 'So I joined SRT and we went down there and we had a crazy trip,' the supermodel said. 'We met amazing people doing incredible things for these animals.' Traveling angel: Ellen then decided to bestow a special gift to the model, a special travel backpack complete with Victoria's Secret Angel wings Ellen then asked if, while growing up in Namibia, she just saw rhinos and other animals just out and about. 'Not as much as we should see them, especially. They're very solitary animals,' Prinsloo said. 'And, through poaching, their numbers have declined from the 60s to the 90s by like 98%, which is crazy. And they're incredible creatures,' she said. Handy backpack: 'This will really come in handy,' Prinsloo said with a laugh, while modeling her special backpack for the crowd The model added that the rhinos are being poached for their hair, which, in certain Asian countries, having rhino hair is a, 'form of status,' along with medicinal uses. 'So they think it will cure anything from a headache to cancer, which is not true,' adding that they kill the animals to get their horns as well. 'They do de-horning now,' adding that the poachers, 'basically let the animal bleed to death, and then sell it on the black market.' 'It's just really sad, and I feel like we as human beings are doing this. And we can stop it. So we can't be the reason they go extinct,' she added. A Neighbours star have been caught encouraging overseas residents to take advantage of a Logie Award voting 'loophole'. Veteran actress Colette Mann, who plays Sheila Canning on the long-running soap, instructed overseas fans to vote for co-stars Ryan Moloney and Eve Morey so they could be shortlisted to win a Logie Award in early March. Using the sneaky yet astonishingly easy technique, UK fans were quick to jump on board and vote. 'Pick yourself an Australian postcode and vote!': Neighbours stars caught instructing UK residents on how to vote for co-stars to win a Logie Award - despite the rule that they must be Australian residents Colette told fans all they had to do was 'Google whitepages.com.au and pick yourself an Australian address and postcode and vote vote vote'. '[And] tell all your friends and family to do the same,' she added. Man fans then posted that they had successfully voted from various locations around the UK. At present, there is a rule which states that only Australian residents can vote for their favourite stars and programs - but people have found a way around this. Playing fair? Veteran actress Colette Mann, who plays Sheila Canning on the long-running soap, was caught telling overseas fans to vote for co-stars Ryan Moloney and Eve Morey so they could be shortlisted to win a Logie Award in early March Online voting for the 61st Logie Awards is open to 'Australian residents only' and requires fans to enter their title, name, address, suburb, state, postcode, email, telephone, sex, age and date of birth. While there may have been a sudden influx of votes coming in from overseas, TV WEEK editor Thomas Woodgate remains confident they won't be counted in the final draw. 'Look, I did see that certain actors and actresses on the show were encouraging people from overseas [to vote], but I think what people don't know is that Roy Morgan manages the verification of all the votes on behalf of the TV Week Logie Awards,' he told News.com.au. Sneaky: Using the sneaky yet astonishingly easy technique, UK fans were quick to jump onboard and vote after Colette linked fans to a website which outlined how overseas could successfully vote Fair game? After Twitter users said they wished they could vote from the UK- Colette replied and told them they could just 'Google' a postcode and vote 'What happens is once all the votes come in, a very detailed verification process is put in place, and what that does is eliminate all invalid votes, and that includes any international votes from that final tally. 'They make absolutely sure that only votes with valid contact information from local voters are valid.' Ryan has been nominated Most Popular Actor and Eve, Most Popular Actress and the coveted Gold Logie Award for Most Popular Personality on Australian TV. Winners? Eve Ryan Molone (left) has been nominated Most Popular Actor and Eve Morey (right), Most Popular Actress and the coveted Gold Logie Award for Most Popular Personality on Australian TV While he claimed voting campaigns didn't necessarily equate to a Logie Award, he believed more people should be getting behind the Australian TV industry and making noise. 'People who look at it as unfair are looking at it from the wrong way. I encourage it, I welcome it, I'd like to see more of it,' he said. Fans can vote for the Most Popular awards, including the Gold Logie, from June 24 to June 30. She's Peter and Karl Stefanovic's Instagram-savvy mother. And Jenny Stefanovic couldn't help taking to social media to congratulate her son, Peter, on his new job at Sky News. On Tuesday, she shared a newspaper clipping on Instagram, featuring her son's Sky News announcement. Nothing like a mother's love: Jenny Stefanovic shared this sweet Instagram post dedicated to Peter on Tuesday She wrote: 'Congratulations your new role Pete. Can't wait to see you back on my TV. Love you mum.' A glance at Jenny's Instagram would reveal she's Peter and Karl's biggest fan - sharing plenty of current and throwback snaps of her sons. Throwback! In December last year, Jenny shared this throwback selfie with Peter visiting Venice, California Awww: One of Jenny's many throwback snaps includes this picture of Peter and Karl as children, which she posted for Peter's birthday last year Her post comes soon after Peter's new job at Sky was announced, where he'll be hosting alongside Laura Jayes. This is Peter's first hosting gig after he and his brother, Karl, were let go by Channel 9 last December. Peter was informed of his axing while overseas, celebrating Karl's marriage to shoe designer Jasmine Yarbrough. Karl was axed in a similar fashion during the extravagant overseas trip, and is yet to find new work. Jenny even weighed in on her sons' firings in an Instagram post last year. She wrote: '[My sons have] seen suffering and devastation throughout the world. They have all worked hard for themselves and the Nine Network and they will overcome these changes as well.' Despite her husband's firing, Peter's wife, Sylvia Jeffreys, has remained at Channel 9 as a reporter on A Current Affair. Montezuma's revenge sent Vanderpump Rules star Tom Schwartz to the hospital on Monday during a crossover episode with the Bravo show Summer House. Visiting Summer House's Hamptons crew with his wife Katie Maloney-Schwartz, castmate Stassi Schroeder and her boyfriend Beau Clark, Schwartz discovered that a recent group trip to Mexico had lasting after-effects. Things started innocently enough. Crossover episode: Tom Schwartz suffered from Montezuma's revenge Monday during a crossover episode of Vanderpump Rules and Summer House 'In the words of Will Ferrell, we're here to f*** s*** up,' said Stassi, 30, as the gang downed shots at the beginning of the episode. But Tom soon shared that he was in a great deal of pain, and had been since their trip. 'I haven't stopped s***ting,' he said. 'Dude! Two weeks later? That's not right,' said Summer House star Kyle Cooke, 36. Two weeks: The reality star complained of being sick for two weeks In a voiceover, he added: 'This is what I love about Tom. He's not going to let a classic case of Montezuma's Revenge ruin his weekend.' Later in the episode, Tom realized couldn't deny the pain he was in any longer. 'I'm going to the hospital,' he told the housemates. Good friend: Kyle Cooke praised Tom for partying while being sick 'We're just gonna go and see if he needs to get any kind of' his wife Katie, 32, trailed off. 'Don't say stitches,' Tom begged. 'It's his butthole,' Katie announced to Stassi, who stood in the hallway, mouth agape as she listened to the couple detail the problem. Still hurting: Tom complained in bed of pain to his wife Katie Hours later, the rest of the housemates hit the clubs. They looked at photos of Tom 'in a dress' in the hospital, which Katie sent to them. 'Cheers to Tom's butt!' they said as they drank back at the house afterward. In a video, Tom said: 'You know one minute you're on the dock, eating a lobster roll, drinking a beer, life's good and the next minute, you're with your bud at the ER, got a finger in your but, getting a CAT scan.' Hospital trip: Katie took her husband to the hospital after he complained about being in pain The verdict: A rectal fissure. The patient was patched up and sent back to the Summer House. 'It's the first time I've ever been double-penetrated,' Tom said slyly. 'What was the second hole?' asked Kyle. In bed: Tom was diagnosed with a rectal fissure and was patched up before being sent back to the Summer House 'A tube in my arm,' Tom replied. Previously, Katie, Stassi and Summer House castmate Lindsay Hubbard, 32, drank at a local event and discussed having children. Stassi said it was 'freaking [her] out' because her longtime pal Katie wanted to have kids now, and 'I thought we would have kids at the same time.' Reality stars: Stassi Schroeder and her boyfriend Beau came to the Summer House together 'What if you accidentally get preggers?' Lindsay asked. 'I feel like that's the only way I would get pregnant,' said Stassi. 'It's definitely weird talking about children with Stassi and Katie considering when I met them everything was so different,' Lindsay reflected, as old scenes of the women drinking together were shown. Baby talk: The Vanderpump Rules star talked about having babies at the same time as Katie Elsewhere during the episode, Kyle talked to Stassi, an old friend, about his plan to propose to girlfriend Amanda Batula, 28, the following weekend. Long dogged by cheating rumors, Kyle was visibly upset throughout the show, as he weighed his love for Amanda with her lack of trust in him. 'I feel like I'm an emotional time bomb,' Kyle said. 'I've known I want to propose for months, and then all this f***ing s*** blew my life up.' Time bomb: Kyle was struggling with his emotions as he wanted to propose to Amanda 'Because the cheating came out,' reasoned Stassi. 'It's the sequence of events that really upsets me because we were talking about me cheating and proposing in the same sentence,' explained Kyle. 'Tough s***that's what happens when you cheat,' his friend said. Tough time: Stassi told Kyle that's what happens when you cheat Kyle and Amanda tearfully made up and headed home. 'This weekend had all of the makings of one of the best of the summer and it's unfortunate because everything just kind of fell apart,' Kyle admitted later. 'But I'm glad I had a chance to talk to Stassi. I value her opinion. She's given me a lot to think about.' 'All it took was one good friend to say maybe you should wait to propose,' he added. 'Maybe I'm rushing things.' The cast said goodbye. 'We'll come back next summer with my ass intact,' Tom said. She's the Neighbors star who has left fans astonished yet again by her age-defying appearance. The youthful-looking beauty Carla Bonner, 46, took to Instagram to showcase her line-free visage and glowing complexion in a selfie she shared with fans. Carla, who's known as playing the role of Stephanie Scully on the Australian soap looked noticeably wrinkle-free, four years shy of 50. She's fighting the signs of aging! Neighbours star Carla Bonner, 46, (pictured) showed off wrinkle-free complexion in a new Instagram post on Tuesday 'You know when we experience challenge there is also opportunity, and we have an inner knowing (voice or wisdom) that let's us know what we need to do, it knows. Let's listen,' Carla's caption read. It's not the first time Carla has flaunted her super smooth visage. In January, she sent her followers into a frenzy after sharing a throwback photo taken 21 years ago. 'You never seem to get any older!' The former Neighbours star left fans stunned in January after sharing a throwback photo (left) taken 21 years ago The mother-of-two was pictured aged 24 breastfeeding her second son Jhye, and her fans were gobsmacked by her ageless appearance. 'You never seem to get any older, still look fabulous!' one follower wrote. One of Carla's fans from the United Kingdom suggested she hasn't aged because of 'that Aussie sun'. Speculation: One of Carla's fans from the UK said she hasn't aged because of 'that Aussie sun' The Melbourne local is also mother to 27-year-old actor Harley Bonner. After quitting Neighbours in 2010, Carla went on to star in Wentworth in 2013 and last year appeared on Superwog. She briefly returned to Neighbours in 2015 before quitting the show for second time in May 2017. He was no stranger to a controversial comment on this year's season of Married At First Sight. But Mike Gunner, 44, has defended his right to free speech in an impassioned interview on his self-titled podcast. The former reality star said it was a dangerous strategy for everyone to think alike, adding 'this is not North Korea, it's Australia'. Standing his ground: Mike Gunner, 44, (left) has defended his right to free speech in an impassioned interview on his self-titled podcast The near two-minute spiel was prompted by a question from a guest on his show, who asked Mike what he thought about the media reaction to his time on MAFS. 'Now more than ever I have an overview of how the media operate and how public perception can be manipulated,' the 44-year-old said. The electrician then recounted a recent article written about him - without naming the publication or the journalist - he thought was 'biased'. Ouch: The near two-minute spiel was prompted by a question from guest Amie Morris of Bondi Radio, who asked Mike what he thought about the media reaction to his time on MAFS 'I'm actually a pretty decent person,' Mike said. 'I have some strong opinions but just because it doesn't align with yours doesn't make either of us wrong. 'We live in a country of free speech and its dangerous to think everybody should think the same - this is not North Korea, it's Australia'. The outspoken TV personality admitted he was sometimes too quick to give his opinion, but added he was not a 'passive observer in life'. His two cents: The electrician recounted a recent article written about him - without naming the publication or the journalist - he thought was 'biased' The Gold Coast tradie bore much of the brunt of viewer backlash following the conclusion of the Channel Nine dating show. He was accused of 'gaslighting' his ex-wife Heidi Latcham during the final reunion episode, when he told her he was 'still in love with' her. 'Gaslighting' is the practice of emotionally abusing another person with such conviction and confidence that the victim starts to doubt their own sense of reality. The Gold Coast tradie has bore much of the brunt of viewer backlash following the conclusion of the Channel Nine dating show (pictured with his on-air ex-'wife' Heidi Latcham) Controversial: Mike drew the ire of both the show's fans and his co-stars when he gave his two cents on why there had been a lack of 'sisterhood' during the experiment A day earlier, he drew the ire of both the show's fans and his co-stars when he gave his two cents on why there had been a lack of 'sisterhood' during the experiment. 'I think groups of women under pressure don't cope as well as groups of men,' he said to the disgust of his fellow contestants. Following the collapse of his on-air relationship with radio presenter Heidi, Mike has found romance again with FIFO truck driver and part-time model Jessica Williamson. The World's Hottest Grandma Gina Stewart is auctioning off a pair of her high heels. One undoubtedly die-hard fan will have the opportunity to quite literally walk in the 48-year-old's shoes. Taking to Instagram on Monday, Gina announced she was selling the 'worn but mint condition' silver stilettos to raise money for the Riviera Theatre in New York. Shoe in: The World's Hottest Grandma Gina Stewart revealed on Tuesday that she is auctioning off a pair of her high heels 'I'm in a New York state of mind,' she began, adding love heart emojis. 'Kick up your heels, celebrity online auction. I am donating and auctioning off my beautiful leather/silver high heel shoes signed by myself.' Gina said the shoes would be auctioned off on eBay in 'a few weeks' time, with all proceeds going to the historic theatre. For a good cause: Taking to Instagram on Monday, Gina announced she was selling the silver stilettos to raise money for the Riviera Theatre in New York Heel it: 'Kick up your heels, celebrity online auction. I am donating and auctioning off my beautiful leather/silver high heel shoes signed by myself,' she announced on Instagram 'Money raised will support the arts in education for this historic theatre for the youth. Children aged six to 18 will benefit,' she continued. Gina urged her followers to get behind the cause, encouraging them all to place a bid. 'I am a humanitarian and I love to make a difference. Please help the kids to discover the arts and bid on my worn but mint condition signed shoes,' she wrote. Charitable: Gina said the shoes would be auctioned off on eBay in 'a few weeks' time, with all proceeds going to a historic theatre The Queensland-based model also offered a message to her American fans: 'I also want to say to all of my USA followers, all my respects on Memorial Day today.' The buxom bombshell showed off the sky-high stilettos with a series of photos of herself modelling them. The pictures show Gina sitting in a car dressed in an impossibly short black mini-dress. Give what you can: Gina urged her followers to get behind the cause, encouraging them all to place a bid She's seen flaunting the strappy silver shoes as she beams at the camera while perched on the front passenger seat. It's worth noting though that buying used shoes can carry a health risk. Fungus leading to athlete's foot, toenail fungus and plantar warts can often linger in second-hand shoes. Mel B paid tribute to her late father on Tuesday as she celebrated what would have been his 65th birthday. The Spice Girls star, 43, took to Instagram to share a photo with her dad Martin Brown, who passed away in March 2017 following a battle with cancer. Posting a snap of them together on the red carpet from yesteryear, a youthful Mel beamed in an one-shouldered crochet dress while she rested her arm on her father's shoulder. Emotional: Mel B paid tribute to her late father on Tuesday as she celebrated what would have been his 65th birthday Captioning the shot from 2001, an emotional Mel B wrote about how she's still reeling from her father's death two years on and wishes she and sister Danielle had one more day with him. She penned: 'Happy birthday dad I'm missing you more now than ever, I really really am in the most amount of pain, it is actually unbearable!! 'But I do wish you could see me now happy and strong j am now thank god, I no you would be sooo proud of me and of Danielle. 'We have morphed into you now big time we dont deal with people who hurt us in life and we stick together as a family thanks to you dad, I love you sooo much, I just wish I could of had one more day one more cuddle thats all #imissyou' (sic). Opening up: Mel B, pictured took to Instagram to share a photo with her dad Martin Brown, who passed away in March 2017 following a battle with cancer Heartbreaking: Captioning the shot from 2001, an emotional Mel B wrote about how she's still reeling from her father's death two years on After battling multiple myeloma cancer since 2012, Martin, who is originally from Saint Kitts and Nevis, had been given just days to live in 2015 but eventually lost his cancer battle in 2017. Mel opened up about the distance they had forged in the years leading up to his passing on Piers Morgan's Life Stories on Saturday. Having not seen her family for six years prior as she had been living in the states, Mel came back to the UK to be with her family after discovering her father was dying. Sisters: In the post, Mel said that she wished she and sister Danielle (L) had one more day with him Mel explained: 'When I saw him, he didnt even look anything remotely like how I remember my dad looking like. 'But he sounded like my dad when he managed to whisper, "I love you".' In the emotional interview, she said: 'I felt really bad, because I hadn't seen him in so long and then I see him like that, I felt really bad and I felt really angry at my husband and I felt really bad for my kids. Sorrow: Mel opened up about the distance they had forged in the years leading up to his passing on Piers Morgan's Life Stories on Saturday 'I've always felt bad, but I couldn't tell him. Right before, I said to him ''You can go now because I have to go and divorce this monster'' and he just looked at me and took his last breath.' She explained that her last conversation with her father gave her the strength to leave her estranged husband Stephen Belafonte. 'That gave me the strength, because I'd said it to my dad, so now I have to do it. I just wish he was here.' Opening up: Mel B pictured with Mel C during their Dublin concert on Friday Meanwhile, The Spice Girls kicked off their reunion tour on Friday in Dublin's Croke Park before taking to the stage at Cardiff's Principality Stadium in Wales on Monday evening. Band members Emma Bunton, 43, Geri Horner, 46, Mel Brown, 43, will also be taking Sunderland, Edinburgh and Bristol before arriving to London's Wembley Stadium. While some fans have congratulated the band mates for their star-studded performances others have been left far from pleased after the shows were marred by audio issues in the stadium. Addressing the complaints in an Instagram video on Friday at 6am, Mel B admitted that the band had experienced sound issues and said the problems would be improved for the upcoming shows. They are the popular Gogglebox couple who married last year just months after debuting on season six of the show. And Matty and Sarah Marie Fahd have announced they are expecting their first child together in a heartwarming gender reveal Instagram post. 'The family is about to have a new couch potato as we we welcome our first human son into the world this November,' the reality TV pair wrote on Instagram. Scroll down for video 'A new couch potato!' Gogglebox stars Matty and Sarah Marie Fahd have announced they are expecting their first child together in a heartwarming gender reveal Instagram post The husband and wife went all out for the moment they found out their baby would be a boy - sharing a picture of them gasping with joy as blue confetti fell around them. The couple added their excitement that their British bulldog Bane - who is known for his boisterous behaviour on the Channel Ten show - was about to be a big brother. In another cute photo, the young dog wore a sign which read 'Big Brother'. New addition: The couple added their excitement that their British bulldog Bane (pictured in announcement post) - who is known for his boisterous behaviour on the Channel Ten show - was about to be a big brother 'Sarah is enjoying a far less sickly second trimester and Bane has already started acting like a protective big brother,' the duo said in a joint post. In a separate post, Sarah Marie said she was finally starting to feel herself again after three months of morning sickness. 'I know we are blessed to be pregnant and I pray for all out there trying to also start a family.' Man's best friend: The couple (centre and right) added their excitement that their British bulldog Bane (left jumping up) - who is known for his boisterous behaviour on the Channel Ten show - was about to be a big brother Sarah is a make-up artist while Matty (centre and right) is a media manager, and they shot to fame when they debuted with their friend Jad (left) in Gogglebox's sixth season in 2017 Sarah is a make-up artist while Matty, 32, is a media manager, and they shot to fame when they debuted with their friend Jad in Gogglebox's sixth season in 2017. The loved-up couple married in a lavish ceremony at Sydneys lavish harbourside venue, Doltone House, last January. Their dog was actually a gift from Matty on their wedding day, with the groom having the pup brought in after his speech. Gregg Wallace has shared the first picture of his newborn son with wife Anne-Marie. The veteran MasterChef judge, 54, took part in a spread with OK! magazine, that saw the greengrocer and his wife Anne-Marie, 32, introduce their baby boy, named Sid Massimo. In the sweet shot, Gregg cradled his newborn in his arms as Anne-Marie rested her head lovingly on her other half's shoulder. Baby joy: Gregg Wallace has shared the first picture of his newborn son with wife Anne-Marie after admitting that conceiving the little one was a 'miracle' Speaking about the birth, Gregg told the magazine: 'I went down the business end and watched the doctors pull Sid out. I saw him take his first breath, it was just beautiful. I looked at him and thought he was perfect.' He added: 'I was far more scared this time than when I had [his children from his second marriage] Tom and Libby. 'I don't know if it's because it took us so long to conceive or perhaps it's because Im older, but I was scared for their health. I could have hugged the doctors.' Baby joy: Gregg Wallace and his wife Anne-Marie have welcomed their first child - a baby boy, named Sid The pair had been trying to conceive for a long while, with Anne-Marie finally falling pregnant last summer shortly before the couple were due to start treatment to help them with the process. It is Gregg's third child; he shares Tom, 25, and Libby, 23, with his ex-wife Denise. When he announced that he and Anne-Marie were expecting, the former-green grocer said: 'We were due to start IVF but then it happened naturally after two years of trying. He told OK! magazine : 'I went down the business end and watched the doctors pull Sid out. I saw him take his first breath, it was just beautiful. I looked at him and thought he was perfect' 'The doctor told us it was a miracle Anna was pregnant.' After the birth, Gregg celebrated with a boozy party, racking up a bar bill of 'well over 2,000' with John Torode and other pals. Meanwhile Anne-Marie, known as Anna, was resting in hospital with her parents. She told OK she was 'fine' Gregg partied all day after the birth of his son as she was 'tired'. Baby joy: Gregg recently captured this serene snap of his wife, at home, while she was heavily pregnant The Masterchef star added he wouldn't have gone if she 'hadn't been happy about it'. Out now: Read the full interview in this week's OK! magazine The television personality isnt likely to give Sid any younger siblings in the future though, as hell already be in his 70s when Sid is grown up and moving out of the family home. He said: 'Usually when you have a child, by the time they're 20 the parents get their life back a bit, but I'll be in my 70s. 'So, we agreed; one child and she'd have some help here at home so her mum and dad have moved down from Coventry and they share this house.' Photographer Anne-Marie also shares two pet French Bulldogs with Gregg. The dogs are called Wally and Bella. The couple first met in 2013 when they bonded over their love of food via Twitter, and despite a 21-year age gap they tied the knot three years later. The Eat Well For Less frontman also revealed that he is happier than ever since he married for the fourth time. Carol Vorderman sauntered into the TV studios at White City on Sunday morning to fill in for Lorraine Kelly on her eponymous morning chat show Lorraine. And it was her sensational figure commanding attention yet again, as the TV personality, 58, strutted along in a tight black top and black skinny trousers, after finally opening up about her extraordinary new figure. Carol wore a black sweater with red and white detailing, tucked into skin-tight leather pants and fastened at the waist with a matching belt. Stunning: Carol Vorderman sauntered into the TV studios at White City on Sunday morning to fill in for Lorraine Kelly on her eponymous morning chat show Lorraine Curvaceous: Carol added a large black leather belt to her look, which drew the eye to her slim waist She wore chunky black heeled boots to complete the look. Her honey blonde locks were left to cascade loosely over her shoulders, while she wore bronzer, pink lip gloss and grey eye-shadow across her smiling features. She later changed for her Lorraine hosting duties, into a floor-length flowing dress. The off-the-shoulder floral number featured multi-layers, animal print detailing and lace trim. Showstopping: And it was her sensational figure commanding attention yet again, as the TV personality, 58, strutted along in a tight black top and black skinny trousers, days after finally opening up about her extraordinary new figure Sashay away: Carol wore a black sweater with red and white detailing, tucked into skin-tight leather pants and fastened at the waist with a matching belt On-screen look: She later changed for her Lorraine hosting duties, into a floor-length flowing dress. The off-the-shoulder floral number featured multi-layers, animal print detailing and lace trim It was also nipped in at the waist with a chunky black belt. She wore mustard peep-toe heels which were spattered with black dots, completing the on-screen look. The star addressed her 3,393K following on Twitter a few weeks ago, when speculation that she had gone under the knife came to light. Killer curves: The star finally addressed the snaps of her extraordinary new figure during an episode of Good Morning Britain last week It's not true: Carol took to social media to insist she hadn't had any cosmetic enhancements and that she was the 'same old Vorders' 'Caught ordering an uber today after a meeting.....an old @KarenMillen top and old jeggings from @marksandspencer.... but it's the same old Vorders,' she said. She then finally addressed the snaps of her extraordinary new figure during an episode of Good Morning Britain last week. The mother-of-two revealed that she was 'shocked' that the pictures of her sensational physique 'went everywhere' as she was quizzed about the snaps by host Susanna Reid. Pretty: The off-the-shoulder floral number featured multi-layers, animal print detailing and lace trim Filling in: She wore mustard peep-toe heels which were spattered with black dots, completing the on-screen look Discussing the snaps, Carol said: 'I had a very long breakfast with the boss.... it went everywhere that was a bit of a shocker, I hadnt put makeup on in ages.' The former Countdown brainbox, known for her ability with figures, became the first person to take the Rear of the Year title twice in 2014. At the time, Carol said: 'I am both surprised and flattered to win the award for a second time - particularly at this stage of my life.' Speaking out: The mother-of-two revealed that she was 'shocked' that the pictures of her sensational physique 'went everywhere' as she was quizzed about the snaps by host Susanna Reid Quick step: The former Countdown brainbox, known for her ability with figures, became the first person to take the Rear of the Year title twice in 2014 The very first Rear of the Year award was presented in 1976 to actress Barbara Windsor but it wasn't until Felicity Kendal's win in 1981 that it became an annual event with a presentation. While the TV star recently revealed that her 50s have been the best decade of her life, she admitted it hasn't been without hardship, and reflected on her struggles with depression as a result of hormones fluctuating during the menopause. 'I went through the year 2015 and I started feeling really low,' she explained on Loose Women. 'I found it became so low it was like a physical pain, it felt like genuine depression. At times I would think about how I could stop that feeling. 'GP's would say here's an anti-depressants, I didn't want to go to a GP, it was almost suicidal thoughts if you like, but I would have never done it because I've got kids.' She recently underwent an entire image overhaul, having a face lift, eye and eyelid lift, Brazilian bum lift and a tummy tuck. Yet despite proudly flaunting her new figure in a sizzling Instagram snap on Monday, Katie Price was accused of photoshopping the image. Showing off her surgically enhanced assets into a pair of flame red leggings and a matching sporty crop top, the 41-year-old model penned: 'My body is getting there after surgery thanks to @comfortzonesurgeryofficial red hot.' Sizzling: Despite proudly flaunting her new figure in a sizzling Instagram snap on Monday, Katie Price was accused of photoshopping the image However, fans were quick to point out that the markings on the car behind her were wonky, claiming this meant she had edited the snap. Her followers wrote: 'Photo shop is a great tool'; 'photoshopped. Look at the car behind her, all bent and out of shape.'; 'Oh come on ! Your photoshop skills are worse than mine !!! 'Not being funny but after all the work youve had done, I wouldnt still expect you to be editing your pictures.'; 'Who is she trying to kid she looks nothing like this!!!!!' Dont be fooled by this picture. It's been badly photoshopped. Look at the car grill behind her!' Katie's representative declined to comment when approached by MailOnline. Slammed: Whilst some fans praised Katie for the stunning shot, several followers claimed that the wonky lines on the car meant she had edited the image Katie had posed in the snap with her teenage son Junior who she shares with her ex-husband Peter Andre, 46. The 13-year-old matched with his mum by sporting a bright red hooded sweater, matching tracksuit bottoms and bold trainers. Continuing the red theme, the pair posed in front of her 31-year-old boyfriend, Kris Boyson's, metallic red Mercedes car. Flashy: Continuing the red theme, the pair posed in front of her boyfriend, Kris Boyson's, 31, metallic red Mercedes car Katie recently shut down reports that she and her beau are engaged after The Sun obtained a snap of the star wearing a sparkly ring. When approached by MailOnline, a representative for Katie vehemently denied that the model and Kris are engaged. Only recently, Katie and her on-off boyfriend Kris were in Turkey having their teeth fixed, which came shortly after the glamour model's multiple surgeries on her face and body. Not engaged: Katie recently shut down reports that she and Kris are engaged after The Sun obtained a snap of the star wearing a sparkly ring Earlier this month, Katie unveiled her new face on Good Morning Britain while discussing her 'addiction' to plastic surgery with hosts Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid, claiming she looks like a 'Space Invader'. The star displayed her newly-smooth and taut visage, explaining that she had her own fat injected under her eyes and had the side of her face 'lifted' in a bid to look more youthful. The mother-of-five also had an eye lift and eyelid lift, Brazilian bum lift and a tummy tuck. Detailing the procedures she had done, Katie said: 'Ten days ago, I had liposuction and then I had my own fat put in my bum, I haven't had implants [in my bum]' 'I look like a Space Invader because it's still really swollen... I had my own fat put under my eyes, and then here at the side I just had it lifted. It's safer than putting chemical stuff in.' Quizzed by hosts Piers and Susanna whether she was addicted to surgery, Katie insisted she had 'calmed down' in recent years. Referencing her ex Dwight Yorke - who is the father of her 16-year-old son Harvey - Katie said her glamour girl days were the height of her cosmetic enhancements. 'I think I've calmed it down, if you look back at pictures from the Dwight days I look like a duck. I don't like that look [now], but there's nothing you can do about skin', she said. Transformation: Earlier this month, Katie unveiled her new face on Good Morning Britain after having a face-lift, liposuction, a Brazilian bum lift and a tummy tuck Jimmy Barnes has revealed the last thing fellow rock star Michael Hutchence said to him before taking his own life in 1997. The Scottish-Australian rocker told Andrew Denton's Interview on Tuesday night he had arranged to meet up with the INXS frontman just days before his death. 'He looked really bad and I knew he'd been having a hard time and it was one of those things where I rang him and said "Should we get together?"' Jimmy said. Final words: Jimmy Barnes (pictured) has revealed the last thing fellow rock star Michael Hutchence said to him before taking his own life in 1997 during Andrew Denton's Interview on Tuesday night 'He was busy and I was busy and we said "we'll get together next week" - and he didn't make it through the week.' Reflecting on what he could have done differently in hindsight, Jimmy said he would have walked to the hotel where Michael, 37, was staying in Sydney's Double Bay. 'I was literally living three kilometers from the hotel where he died and I could have gone there if I wasn't recovering from my own s**t,' the 63-year-old said. Jimmy has previously admitted to trying to take his own life in an Auckland hotel in 2012, and he said he wondered if Michael changed his mind at the last moment. Tragic death: 'He looked really bad and I knew he'd been having a hard time and it was one of those things where I rang him and said 'Should we get together?'' Jimmy said. Pictured: Michael Hutchence 'I just think it was a horrible accident - I got to the point where I had the rope around my neck and I didn't want to die.' Elsewhere in his in-depth interview on the Channel Seven talk show, Jimmy addressed his much-documented struggle with drugs and alcohol. Andrew played the rock star a clip from the 2000 Sydney Olympics where he was performing on stage - and the 63-year-old said he used to find it hard to watch back because he was drunk at the time. Empathy: Jimmy has previously admitted to trying to take his own life in an Auckland hotel, and he said he wondered if Michael changed his mind at the last moment. Pictured: Michael's funeral procession in Sydney Struggles: Elsewhere in his in-depth interview on the Channel Seven talk show, Jimmy addressed his much-documented struggle with drugs and alcohol 'I didn't see that back for many years because I didn't want to - I was so smashed when I did it that I didn't think I would be any good.' It comes after Jimmy said he was subconsciously trying to kill himself with booze and drugs in an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald on Tuesday. 'When I started drinking and taking drugs, I didn't drink to have fun, I drank to stop feeling. I took drugs to stop feeling. I drank like somebody who was trying to die,' Jimmy said. For confidential support in Australia, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or click here. Craig Revel Horwood has revealed two insider secrets concerning Strictly Come Dancing 2019. Appearing on Tuesday's edition of This Morning, the TV judge, 54, teased that the producers have found a replacement for Darcey Bussell, who announced earlier this year that she was stepping down from her role on the show. In addition, Craig detailed changes to the shows current format. Teaser: Strictly's Craig Revel Horwood has teased a MAJOR format shake-up this year... and CONFIRMED Darcey Bussell's replacement has been found He said: 'This year is going to be very interesting. Like Australia, theyre taking a leaf out of Australias book, and of course Dancing with the Stars in America, the judges will be dancing. 'I dont know that Shirley Ballas knows that yet, but she will. Scoop!... Well dance with the contestants. You put yourself on the line, so to speak.' Craig continued: 'I did it in Australia and I absolutely loved it there I danced with Courtney Act, which was absolutely fantastic. 'It was brilliant to come into the room to choreograph and to actually create an entire scenario and star in it yourself. And then be judged, thats sort of the big thing And Im up, as most people know, for absolutely anything.' Replacement incoming: Appearing on Tuesday's edition of This Morning, the TV judge, 54, teased that the producers have found a replacement for Darcey Bussell, who announced earlier this year that she was stepping down from her role on the show On Darcey leaving the show, Craig admitted: 'I was shocked, Ive got to say, because I didnt know that was going to happen' On Darcey leaving the show, Craig admitted: 'I was shocked, Ive got to say, because I didnt know that was going to happen. 'There was only a slight suggestion on the tour, but nothing more and I never thought that would actually happen because she is one of my best mates and I love sitting next to her. I love the fact she was whacking me with her paddle!' When questioned as to who Darceys replacement might be on this years Strictly judging panel, Craig stated: 'They havent told me, but they have told me that it is someone that can actually dance. So thats good. 'And also, it needs to be someone opinionated I love Anton [Du Beke], he would be great. Any of the ex-dancers would be fantastic, but I dont know is the honest truth. Shall we dance? Ruth Langsford - who was on Strictly in 2017 - couldn't resist a turn around the studio with Craig Eamonn Holmes suggested that Darceys replacement could easily be former pro James Jordan, to which Craig responded: 'Thats unlikely, darling' 'They wont tell me because my gobs too big!' Eamonn Holmes suggested that Darceys replacement could easily be former pro James Jordan, to which Craig responded: 'Thats unlikely, darling.' Craig went on to discuss meeting his current partner, Jonathan. He said: 'This year is going to be very interesting. Like Australia, theyre taking a leaf out of Australias book, and of course Dancing with the Stars in America, the judges will be dancing' Going green: 'Hes a horticulturalist Hes so green-fingered that Im putting a vineyard into my house,' Craig said of his boyfriend He said: 'I did meet my partner, Jonathan on Tinder I set the net wide, darling. 300 miles! Because I was on tour at the time and it was brilliant, because I wasnt actually looking for someone specific in that way. 'At least you get to know their age, what they look like before you meet up with them. And we had a power meeting, which was literally just like an hour over avocado and eggs. 'And weve been together ever since Hes a horticulturalist Hes so green-fingered that Im putting a vineyard into my house.' Later in the afternoon, Craig's Strictly co-judge Shirley Ballas appeared on Loose Women. Later in the afternoon: Craig's Strictly co-judge Shirley Ballas appeared on Loose Women Details, please: Shirley also teased the next season of Strictly, and said fans will be 'absolutely delighted' with the shows new judge She also teased the next season of Strictly, and said fans will be 'absolutely delighted' with the shows new judge. 'I know that whoever the BBC are going to choose will be absolutely perfect for the show,' she said. 'I am sure there will be lots of surprises this series. We have a new Executive Producer, we have Rylan [Clark-Neal] on It Takes Two and we are getting a new judge. 'Although for me, Darcey was like my queen. That lady held my hand the whole time and I have never laughed so much with another woman in all my life. She was amazing and she will be sorely missed for sure.' Keeping mum: 'I know that whoever the BBC are going to choose will be absolutely perfect for the show,' she said. 'I am sure there will be lots of surprises this series. We have a new Executive Producer, we have Rylan [Clark-Neal] on It Takes Two and we are getting a new judge' Hinting that the new judge is a 'very interesting' choice, she said: 'I will fit with whoever they pick. I know they will pick the best person for the general public and to be on that show that fits in with everybody. 'You are all going to be absolutely delighted.' This Morning airs weekdays at 10.30AM, followed by Loose Women at 12:30PM on ITV. She's said to fund her lifestyle working on a 2-a-minute adult website where she is paid for flirty webcam chats with her fans. And Chloe Ayling no doubt sent her followers into frenzy when she posed topless for a raunchy Instagram snap on Tuesday. Clad in just a towel, the 21-year-old glamour model protected her modesty with just her hands as she pouted down the lens. Steamy: he's said to fund her lifestyle working on a 2-a-minute adult website. And Chloe Ayling no doubt sent her followers into frenzy when she posed topless on Tuesday The mother-of-one wore her golden locks damp and tousled, whilst she sported dramatic smokey eye shadow and a slick of nude gloss. Revealing that she was on holiday in Singapore, the stunning blonde posed by her bathroom window, showing off the skyline. She captioned the image: 'Back in the city'. Flirty: Chloe to fund her lifestyle working on a 2-a-minute adult website where she is paid for flirty webcam chats with her fans Chloe first hit headlines when she was kidnapped in Milan, Italy in 2017 having been lured to the city for a photo assignment. The blonde model was held for six days and threatened with being sold in the Middle East as a sex slave before being released unharmed. In June her kidnapper Lukasz Herba, from Birmingham, West Midlands, was jailed for 16 years, while he claimed the model had suggested she be kidnapped in an attempt to boost her career. Chloe's high profile earned her a spot on Celebrity Big Brother 2018, where she made waves for engaging in flirtatious behaviour with Jermaine Pennant, who unbeknownst to her was married. The star now works for a 2-a-minute adult website where she is paid for flirty webcam chats with her fans. Chloe was dumped by her agent after it was uncovered that she works for the site where models strip and engage in sex talk. She is the Australian Instagram superstar who normally goes solo when flaunting her wares to her almost ten million followers. But on Tuesday Tammy Hembrow showed her surname still has the Kardashian appeal as she launched a makeup line with her sisters Amy, 28, and Emilee, 27. Sharing a photo of herself with her equally glamorous siblings, Tammy, 25, revealed the trio were collaborating on a make-up product with cosmetics giant Benefit. They really are Australia's own Kardashians! Instagram superstar Tammy Hembrow (right) has launched a makeup product with sisters Amy (left) and Emilee (centre). The three siblings have collaborated with cosmetics giant Benefit 'I can't wait to finally share our collaboration,' the social media sensation wrote in a promotion for the HemBROWS Basics Kit. The deal is likely to be highly lucrative for the sisters, with Benefit Cosmetics selling its products in more than 30 countries. The kit is now on sale at Sephora for $66 online, with an RRP of $109. The Hembrow sisters - who are completed by Starlette and Ava - have been likened to Kourtney, Khloe, Kendall and Kylie Kardashian. She does have great brows! 'I can't wait to finally share our collaboration,' the social media sensation wrote in a promotion for the HemBROWS Basics Kit. Pictured: Tammy Hembrow All in the family! Sisters Emilee (left) Amy (centre right) Starlette (right) and Ava (not pictured), the four model sisters of Tammy Hembrow (centre left) have been likened to Kourtney, Khloe, Kendall and Kylie Kardashian Tammy is the daughter of Australian director, screenwriter and musician Mark Hembrow, 64. Amy is the oldest Hembrow and has earned social media fame (over 178K follows) thanks in part to her younger sisters Emilee and Tammy. She's the general manager of popular clothing brand Saski Collection and has previously worked as a marketing coordinator and graphic designer. Claim to fame! Much of 27-year-old Emilee's social media success comes from documenting her two pregnancies on Instagram. Pictured here with her two children Unlike younger siblings Emilee and Tammy, Amy's modelling resume is limited to a few small campaigns. Just like Tammy, much of Emilee's social media success, including one million Instagram followers, comes from documenting her two pregnancies on Instagram. The beauty has earned her fair share of modelling contracts and commercial work, and even launched her own fashion line in 2015. She has just returned from a sun-soaked getaway to Mallorca with boyfriend Jeremy Parisi. And Kelly Brook looked just as delighted on home turf as she was seen arriving to Heart Radio in London on Tuesday. The former glamour model, 39, showed off her toned legs in a flirty thigh-high split polka dot dress and cropped pink denim jacket. Summer style: Kelly Brook, 39, looked just as delighted on home turf as she was seen arriving to Heart Radio in London on Tuesday Kelly flaunted her summer style credentials in the flirty midi-dress which she teamed with towering black heels as she strutted along. The number plunged down the middle to show off her sensational cleavage and she added a pop of colour with her cropped outerwear. The Piranha 3D star relied on her naturally striking features with a glamorous coat of make-up, while her bouncy blowdry got caught in the subtle breeze. Earlier this week, Kelly was soaking up the Spanish sunshine with her beau Jeremy and the pair ensured to document their travels with a series of loved-up selfies. Work it: The former glamour model showed off her toned legs in a flirty thigh-high split polka dot dress and cropped pink denim jacket Kelly flaunted her summer style credentials in the flirty midi-dress which she teamed with towering black heels as she strutted along In March, Kelly took to her Instagram to celebrate her four year anniversary with Jeremy as she shared a picture of her drinking Aperol Spritz in the sun. She wrote: 'It's officially our 4 year anniversary of being consciously coupled.' The model has been dating the French-Italian martial arts instructor after kicking off their relationship by flirting via direct message on Instagram. Kelly previously revealed she initially feared she was being 'catfished' by the hunk until they came face-to-face in real life. Sexy: The number plunged down the middle to show off her sensational cleavage and she added a pop of colour with her cropped outerwear Beauty: The Piranha 3D star relied on her naturally striking features with a glamorous coat of make-up, while her bouncy blowdry got caught in the subtle breeze Romantic: Earlier this week, Kelly was soaking up the Spanish sunshine with her beau Jeremy and the pair ensured to document their travels with a series of loved-up selfies Home time: Kelly made a glam exit when she climbed into the back of a cab and she smiled to the cameras Sensational in spots: The presenter glided through the streets in the thigh-split polka dot dress when she made the most of the sunshine Speaking as she co-hosted Heart Drivetime, the radio presenter said: 'I met him on Instagram! It's the way forward. I saw a video of him and I thought, "Oh I wonder if hes on Instagram". 'Obviously he was, as everyone is, and I started following him and I saw he followed me back, so I just slipped in to the DMs and I was like, "Ohhh thank you for the follow".' Kelly reportedly 'proved seriously popular' when she made her debut on the radio airwaves at the end of 2018. The star recently said that life is more settled now that she has a permanent job and steady boyfriend. 'It definitely feels like a whole chapter of my life is over,' Kelly told The Sun's Fabulous magazine last month. Sofia Richie spent Memorial Day getting in some shopping with a pal. The 20-year-old aspiring model was spotted getting some retail therapy while also supporting her 'best friend' and boyfriend in Malibu on Monday. Dressed casually, Sofia was sporting a sweatshirt that was designed by her beau Scott Disick and his Talentless brand. Supportive girlfriend: Sofia Richie is showing her love for beau Scott Disick by rocking one of his Talentless hoodies during a shopping trip in Malibu on Monday The hoodies were given out as party favors at Disick's 36th birthday over the weekend. Sofia paired the plain off-white sweatshirt that featured the Talentless logo with simple denim jeans and white trainers. The back of the sweatshirt featured a large circular logo that read 'Talentless Mr. Disick.' She carried with her a shopping bag, a black purse and her cellphone. Her blonde tresses were left down and she covered up from the Southern California sun with a pair of large sunglasses. Swag: Scott gave out his Talentless hoodies as party favors during his 36th birthday soiree over the weekend Just a day prior, the daughter of Lionel Richie joined her love at his birthday bash held at his own Calabasas home. In attendance was Scott's 40-year-old ex-partner Kourtney Kardashian, with whom he has three children, and her siblings Kim Kardashian, 38, Khloe Kardashian, 34, and Kylie Jenner, 21. Taking to social media throughout the night, the guests documented the treats on offer for the guests. Happy family: Over the weekend, the daughter of Lionel Richie joined her love at his birthday bash held at his own Calabasas home which was also attended by his ex Kourtney Kardashian and her sister Kylie (pictured) The KUWTK star posed inside a photobooth with girlfriend Sofia Richie which she shared on Instagram calling him 'muffin.' Despite splitting from Kourtney Kardashian, the pair remain close co-parents and the whole Kardashian-Jenner family showed up to celebrate Scott. Khloe began by documenting the night by ribbing Scott for the enormous number of towels he kept in his bathroom, filming the inside of his restroom as she squealed: 'How many towels does the Lord have in his house?' Happy couple: Sofia shared shots from the party on social media, including one where she called Scott 'muffin' As Scott sauntered in clad in his Talentless outfit, he shot back, 'I've gotta stay dry, baby!' whilst Kylie quipped: 'You're exposing his bathroom!' Another clip saw all of the party guests gathered around Scott and his cake on the table, which was adorned with candles and a large '36.' This year's bash seemed a far cry from Scott's infamous hard-partying ways of the past. The birthday soiree seemed to be a low-key family affair attended by not only the adult Kardashians but their children too. Favors: The 20-year-old posted an image of Scott's new line from the party With Scott's nephew Saint West hugging his leg, the father-of-three brought up Kim and Kanye's three-year-old son to help him blow out the candles on his lavish cake. His relationship with the half-sister of Nicole Richie seems to be heating up as his party-boy past dies down. On his birthday, Sofia posted a sweet photo of herself sitting on a deck chair snuggled up with Scott. 'Happy birthday to my best friend,' she penned. As one of the world's leading supermodels, Heidi Klum rarely looks dressed down. And Heidi Klum showcased her sartorial prowess even as she took her fiance Tom Kaulitz' dog out for a walk in Hamburg, Germany, on Tuesday. The model, 45, looked stunning as she stepped out in a black logo top and wide-fit PVC trousers that sat high on her waist. Doting pet owner: Heidi Klum looked stunning in a black T-Shirt and PVC trousers as she took fiance Tom Kaulitz' dog out for a walk in Hamburg on Tuesday Heidi kept warm by wearing an oversized black cardigan, while she gave her look a pop of colour with a pair of blue-and-purple trainers. Her blonde tresses cascaded over her shoulders and were brushed into a sleek, straight style, while her fringe helped to frame her face well. The model kept her accessories low-key by wearing a pair of chic round sunglasses and a pendant necklace. Heidi looked delighted as she spent time with Tom's pet pooch, who excitedly pulled on the lead that the model held. Stylish: Heidi kept warm by wearing an oversized black cardigan, while she gave her look a pop of colour with a pair of blue-and-purple trainers Her outing comes as she admitted that her four children Helene, 14, Henry, Johan, and Lou, 9, 'can't wait for the wedding' as they love their rocker stepfather-to-be, 29. Speaking to Closer magazine, she gushed: 'The kids adore Tom. They can't wait for the wedding! They'll be very involved in it all.' Going on to discuss their engagement, ten months into their romance, she said: 'We met in February 2018 - and honestly I would have married him that day, probably! 'I was surprised when he asked, but I was kind of thinking it was going to go that way because we just clicked.' Smitten: Heidi's outing comes as she admitted that her four children Helene, 14, Henry, Johan, and Lou, 9, 'can't wait for the wedding' as they love their rocker stepfather-to-be, 29 The former Victoria's Secret Angel said she and her fiance have set a date for the wedding, but have their work cut out for them as they've been too busy with their work to plan anything. Heidi met Tom on set of Germany's Next Top Model in March last year, and Tom popped the question on December 24 with a dark-stone engagement ring. Heidi is 16 years older than the Tokio Hotel guitarist, and, of their wedding, she told ET last month: 'We're two Germans, it will be very organised and on time. Very, very much on time and very organised.' Heidi shares her eldest daughter with her ex partner Flavio Briatore, who she split from soon after announcing her pregnancy. She often treats her social media followers to sexy swimwear snaps. And Elizabeth Hurley did not disappoint her legions of fans with her latest social offering that she shared on Tuesday. The actress, 53, flaunted her never ending pins as she reclined back onto the grass and raised her one of leg up into the air whilst dressed in a white wrap dress printed with an assortment of bright fruits. Sexy! Elizabeth Hurley, 53, did not disappoint her legions of fans with her latest social offering that she shared on Tuesday Liz put on a cheeky display as her dress fell around her peachy posterior - nearly flashing her derriere. Shading her eyes from the beating sun, the bikini designer sported large brown lens sunglasses. In another snap, the age-defying star knelt down as she posed for the camera with her hands on her lap and her enviable cleavage on display thanks to her garments plunging neckline. The British beauty left her caramel locks down in a loose style and adorned her decolletage with a gold chain and dainty pendant. Fruity: The actress modeled a white wrap dress printed with an assortment of bright fruits She captioned the series of images: 'English summer.' Liz's summer snap comes after she welcomed her beautiful new puppy Ava to Instagram, telling fans 'happy days were here again'. Ava's addition to the family comes just weeks after Liz and her son Damian's beloved Labradors Emily, 16, and Raja, 11, passed away. The Hampshire native also spoke to Harper's Bazaar about her statement designer gown at the Four Weddings and a Funeral premiere in 1994. Elizabeth reflected on the night she wore the dress as she admitted she was 'unprepared' for the impact the ensemble holds in today's fashion industry. While she made a bold style statement during the glitzy evening with her then-boyfriend Hugh Grant, the Royals star confessed the process of achieving the striking look was less than glamorous. The honey-blonde beauty shared: 'I was so unprepared for what happened that night. Cute! Liz's summer snap comes after she welcomed her beautiful new puppy Ava to Instagram, telling fans 'happy days were here again' 'I urgently needed to find a dress to wear for Hughs premiere, and in those days I had no idea about fashion. 'I remember going to an office where they literally fished a dress out of a white plastic bag. I took it home and did my own hair and makeup, fighting Hugh for the mirror, which wasnt even full-length, in our tiny one-bedroom flat.' The mother-of-one, who dated screen star Hugh, 58, for 13 years until 2000, added: 'It was all very unglamorous compared to how things get done these days.' Liz revealed she can still fit into the racy pin ensemble she wore nearly three decades ago. Speaking on maintaining her figure, the Aria star detailed: 'I dont exercise, but I am very active. But just because it still fits doesnt mean I would wear it today it wouldnt be appropriate!' Larissa Dos Santos' latest revelation on 90 Day Fiance: Happily Ever After? was an eye opener as to why she left her children in another country. During Sunday night's episode, the 33-year-old shared that has children in her home country of Brazil and her decision not to bring them to America. Her now ex-husband Colt Johnson knew about the children but Larissa came clean to her former mother-in-law, with whom she has a fraught relationship. Bombshell! Larissa Dos Santos dropped a major bombshell during Sunday night's episode of 90 Day Fiance: Happily Ever After? as she revealed she has children back in Brazil 'I miss my children every day,' she said during the episode. 'It was really hard leaving my children behind when I moved to America.' Larissa explained that she was hesitant to bring her kids with her, not knowing what life would be like in the US. 'I know that its hard to understand,' she said. '"Why you dont bring your children to America, Larissa?"' 'But you know I just saw Colt twice in my life. So I thought to first come here to work with my relationship with Colt and to later decide to bring my children one day.' 'I miss my children every day,' she said during the episode. 'It was really hard leaving my children behind when I moved to America.' Debbie, Colt's mom, responded by being upset about being kept in the dark about her short-lived daughter-in-law's children. 'I think Larissa has a lot of secrets,' Debbie said in the show. 'And now Im just wondering what else is she hiding.' It seems Larissa's choice to keep her children away from America might have been the right move as her relationship with Colt crumbled. In addition, a rift between Debbie and Larissa has been heating up this week as Johnson alleged that her former daughter-in-law was set to be deported. Shocker! Colt reportedly knew about her children but Larissa made the revelation to her former mother-in-law Debbie (Colt and Debbie pictured) Larissa quickly came to her own defense, posting a long message on Instagram dispel the rumors after Debbie posted an Instagram comment saying that her deportation 'takes time.' 'I woke up this morning, to find messages sent to me, and posted about my legal status in the US,' the reality star wrote. 'This isnt true, everything about my status in the US is confidential and will not be disclosed by third parties that [are] not involved in any immigration process with me,' she said. She went on to explain that she's been trying to just live her life and 'allow the courts to handle everything,' as it's in 'their hands.' Problems: Also on Sunday, an off-camera battle was brewing between Debbie and Larissa after Johnson commented that her former daughter-in-law's deportation was imminent 'As many of you know, my court date is May 30th, it is the last and saddest chapter of my life and I want to finish it as soon as possible to finally have peace,' Larissa said. In a more pointed statement at her former mother-in-law she ended by saying, 'I will not accept defamation of any kind.' Additionally, Larissa's lawyer told Us Weekly Debbie's statements were untrue. Colt and Larissa tied the knot in front of cameras for the TLC show 90 Day Fiance, but the relationship quickly went south and they divorced 11 months later. In January, Larissa posted photos of deep cuts and scratches on her face and body, claiming they were inflicted during a fight she had with her husband. Split: Larissa and Colt divorced after just 11 months together and hosted divorce parties at Crazy Horse in Las Vegas Authorities ultimately determined the wounds had been self-inflicted and that Larissa had been the aggressor in the fight, according to TMZ. She was subsequently arrested for domestic battery and charged with a misdemeanor for allegedly punching Colt in the head. It was during this time that Colt filed for divorce. Larissa had been arrested twice before on domestic violence charges in Las Vegas, once in June and again in November last year. Both misdemeanor cases were subsequently dismissed. Wendy Williams was back to work on Tuesday after a long holiday weekend. The 54-year-old talk show host was keeping it casual as she was spotted at her television studio in Manhattan. Williams was seen heading to and fro work where she filmed her most recent live episode of The Wendy Williams show. At the office: Wendy Williams was back to work on Tuesday in New York after a long holiday weekend following accusations from her estranged ex that she is 'poisoning' their son against him Wearing her favorite shoes as of late, a simple pair of white Keds, Wendy stepped out looking busier than ever taking a phone call. She was dressed in a classic long V-neck black cotton dress and a black jacket that appeared a size or two too big for her. The coat featured a large cartoon bee on the breast pocket. The mother of one's blonde tresses were kept down in a straight blowout. A lover of luxury accessories, Wendy rocked a huge white quilted leather Chanel bag slung over one shoulder. Casual vibes: Wendy rocked a simple long V-neck black cotton dress and a black jacket that appeared a size or two too big for her The star is in the midst of getting back on track in her recovery from drug and alcohol addiction while dealing with the end of her 21-year marriage. Wendy's estranged ex, Kevin Hunter, reportedly blames his former wife for the souring of his relationship with their only child, Kevin Jr., which lead to a physical altercation. Kevin Jr., 19, reportedly punched his father in the face last week and was subsequently arrested for assault following an argument over the couple's divorce. Accusations: Wendy's estranged ex Kevin Hunter is claiming that the talk show host 'poisoned' their only son, Kevin Jr., against him Kevin Sr. later accused Wendy of 'poisoning his relationship with their son' TMZ reported. The altercation is allegedly just the latest in simmering tensions between father and son, according to the gossip site. 'Kevin Sr. has made several attempts in recent weeks to spend time with his son to repair the relationship, but he got the cold shoulder,' said TMZ's sources. The fractured relationship reportedly stemmed from an ongoing affair between Hunter Sr. and his mistress Sharina Hudson. Altercations: Last week the 19-year-old (pictured right in 2017) was arrested after allegedly striking his father in the face DailyMail.com broke news of the ongoing tryst in April - and the scandal led Williams to file for divorce from her husband of 22 years. Hunter had been living the high life with his mistress in a secret hideaway in New Jersey after she gave birth to their daughter, all while the TV host has been battling an addiction to alcohol and pills brought on by their affair. Wendy also banned Kevin -a former Executive Producer on her show- from The Wendy Williams Show set and fired him as her manager. It was a busy Tuesday for couple Katie Holmes and Jamie Foxx as they were seen on opposite coasts. Katie, 40, was spotted enjoying a midday stroll by herself in New York City. And her beau Jamie, 51, spent the afternoon supporting friend and director F Gary Gray as he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles. Busy bees: Katie Holmes, 40, was spotted out in New York City on Tuesday, enjoying a midday stroll by herself... and Jamie Foxx, 51, spent the afternoon supporting friend and director Gary Gray as he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame The actress wore a long black sheer dress with a floral pattern that included pink, red and blue. The dress was very flattering to her figure and perfect for spring. Across her shoulders the mother of one added a round woven purse worn crossbody style. Dashing around: Her long hair was down, appearing to still be a bit damp, and she sported black sunglasses as well Katie's long hair was worn down, appearing to still be a bit damp, and she sported black sunglasses as well. The Dawson's Creek star walked through the streets in thin brown sandals. She looked distracted while crossing the street as she wore a beaded necklace to complete her city chic look. Style and grace: She looked distracted while crossing the street as she wore a beaded necklace to complete her get up Katie was later spotted after changing into a more casual vibe. She donned a loose blood orange blouse and jeans for the second half of her day. Remaining busy though, she multi tasked by chatting on her cell phone. Look number two: Katie was later spotted after changing into a more casual vibe Working hard: She donned a loose blood orange blouse and jeans for the second half of her day while chatting on the phone Jamie also had an action-packed Tuesday as he supported his Law Abiding Citizen director Gray while receiving his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Gray is famous for directing numerous blockbusters such as Straight Outta Compton and The Fate Of The Furious. For the honor, Gary wore a grey suit with a lavender tie while Jamie stood by his side in a black suit jacket with a white collared shirt underneath. Supportive trio: For the honor, Gary wore a grey suit with a lavender tie while Jamie stood by his side in a black suit jacket with a white collared shirt underneath Proud moment: Jamie hugged his talented pal, embracing him after his thank you speech Also celebrating the exciting achievement was Vin Diesel, who posed with the two men, opting for a more casual look in a black t-shirt. Gray and Diesel worked together on The Fate Of The Furious. Jamie hugged his talented pal after his thank you speech. Katie's and Jamie's full day follow their appearance together at this year's Met Gala. Holmes dazzled in purple as Foxx had on sunglasses. Match made in style heaven! The former Dawson's Creek actress confirmed her romance with Jamie at the Met Gala, after years of speculation surrounding their relationship Jamie's daughter Corinne raved about her father's girlfriend in a recent interview with People Now. 'They're so great and Katie's always so chic,' she said of the couple's Met Gala appearance. Continuing with a blush, she added: 'They're really happy.' Katie was previously married to Cruise from 2006 to 2012. They share daughter Suri, 13, together. All three of Teen Mom 2 star Jenelle Evans' kids now have been removed from her custody amid her turbulent marriage to David Eason. A judge in North Carolina stripped the MTV personality, 27, of custody of her three children - sons Jace, nine, and Kaiser, four, from past relationships; and daughter Ensley, two, who she shares with Eason - one month after her husband, 30, fatally shot the family's pet French bulldog after the dog had behaved aggressively toward their toddler, Ensley. The judge told a 'sobbing' Evans that she had 'failed to protect the children while they were in her care,' insiders told Radar. Legal woes: Teen Mom 2 star Jenelle Evans' three children have been removed from her custody amid her turbulent marriage to David Eason, according to a new report Radar 'Jenelle was sobbing in court ... [she] believed that her lawyer was going to be able to get her children back and she seemed stunned when this happened.' Jenelle's mother Barbara Evans, who already has custody of her eldest son Jace, will also take over legal custody of daughter Ensley; while Kaiser's dad, Jenelle's ex Nathan Griffith, will take over legal custody of the boy. Insiders told TMZ that until further notice from the court, Evans and Eason will be restricted to an hour of supervised visitation a week. The two were ordered by the judge to undergo drug tests once a week, counseling and parenting courses on a track to potentially regain custody of the kids, according to the outlet. A source previously told TMZ that Evans must decide between remaining with Eason or getting her kids back. Amid the ongoing developments, 'Jenelle is standing by David,' as 'despite what happened, she has no plans to leave him,' a source told Radar. Emotional: A judge told a 'sobbing' Evans (pictured on a Teen Mom special) that she had 'failed to protect the children while they were in her care,' insiders told Radar The legal ruling comes after officials removed the kids from the home following Eason's shooting of their family dog Nugget. David videotaped Ensley playing with their French Bulldog and shared the clip to his followers on one of his many social media accounts. As Ensley tried to kiss the puppy named Nugget, the dog who is clearly uncomfortable as it cowers and pulls away from the little girl nipped back at the girls face while the video continued to roll on. The Blast reported that David 'grabbed the dog by the throat and slammed it on the ground' before throwing the helpless animal into the kitchen table. He then threw the dog's body out of the door before grabbing a pistol and shotgun and returning outside to shoot the puppy to death, only to return to the home 'covered in blood.' Breaking point: Eason last month fatally shot the family's pet French bulldog Nugget, claiming the dog had behaved aggressively toward their toddler, Ensley He was unapologetic about the killing in a subsequent Instagram post addressing his actions. 'Some people are worth killing or dying for and my family means that much to me,' he said. ' 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 a animal is a danger to MY CHILD is ME.' Evans was subsequently let go by MTV in the wake of the incident, as the network said in a statement, 'We have stopped filming with Jenelle ... as of April 6, 2019, and have no plans to cover her story in the upcoming season,' noting that they also 'ended [their] relationship with David Eason over a year ago in February 2018.' Conditions: Evans' home with Eason was described by CPS 'as horrific,' as 'it was filthy, and there were holes in all of the walls' Better times: Jenelle, pictured with Eason in 2016, 'believed that her lawyer was going to be able to get her children back and she seemed stunned when this happened,' a source told Radar Child Protective Services also began a probe of Eason and Evans following the dog's death, according to The Blast, and sources told Radar that 'CPS described the state of the home as horrific,' as 'it was filthy, and there were holes in all of the walls.' Evans told US that the agency directed Kaiser's paternal grandmother Doris to take the child without her approval. 'Kaiser was taken away Friday without my consent, before Mother's Day, and I have been in touch with my lawyer pertaining this matter,' she told the magazine. 'CPS told Doris to take Kaiser without my consent and still have no legal paperwork signed by the judge stating my kids are taken from me.' The former reality star has been married to David for nearly three years. Ariana Grande revealed on Tuesday that she would be postponing the next two shows on her Sweetener/Thank U, Next World Tour. The 25-year-old powerhouse took to Instagram Stories on Tuesday to reveal she had woken up 'incredibly sick' and was 'beyond devastated' to have to postpone the shows. Her Tampa and Orlando performances are the ones that have been affected. Scroll down for video Needs to rest and recover: Ariana Grande revealed on Tuesday that she would be cancelling her Tampa an Orlando shows after waking up 'incredibly sick' and getting doctor's advise to rest up 'i woke up incredibly sick today, ran to my doctor here and have been told to postpone these shows tonight and tomorrow,' she revealed, adding: 'i'm so beyond devastated.' She continued, 'i will make this up to you, i promise. please forgive me. i love you and i will be back and better than ever as soon as possible. love you.' Ariana also confirmed on Tuesday that she'd be returning to Tampa and Orlando in November. Heartfelt apology: Ariana sent a message on her Instagram Stories, revealing she was 'byeond devastated' to have to be postponing Strong run: The Tampa and Orlando concerts were set to be her 28th and 29th shows on her world tour 'will keep you posted as soon as possible on exact dates but we will be returning in November and you will be able to use your tickets you've already purchased,' she wrote. It has been since reported that the makeup shows will take place on the 24th and 25th of November, 2019. The Tampa and Orlando concerts were set to be her 28th and 29th shows on her world tour. Ariana's next scheduled date is May 31 in Miami, Florida. She will finish the US leg on the tour in early August before heading all over Europe. Lots more to come: Ariana's next scheduled date is May 31 in Miami, Florida. She will finish the US leg on the tour in early August before heading all over Europe Update! It has been since reported that the makeup shows will take place on the 24th and 25th of November, 2019 The beauty's appearance comes after she hinted she wasn't at all impressed with her Madame Tussauds wax figure, after her Arianators were too left baffled, labeling the art 'embarrassing' and 'disrespectful'. Commenting on a picture of the figure, she quipped: 'i just wanna talk [sic].' Shared last Tuesday, the Maddame Tussauds account wrote: 'You chose Classic Ari! Now we have her style nailed. You can see @ArianaGrande at Madame Tussauds London for 5 weeks from Friday.' And even five weeks seemed to be too many for some fans, who quickly took to Twitter to put the wax museum on blast. 'I just wanna talk'! The beauty's appearance comes after she hinted she wasn't at all impressed with her Madame Tussauds wax figure, after her Arianators were too left baffled, labeling the art 'embarrassing' and 'disrespectful' Melissa's wax figure? Fans didn't appear thrilled at all '[T]hank god its 5 weeks because that dont look like her wtf,' wrote one angry follower. Others were left scratching their heads, penning: 'Yall need to melt her face a start [over] because this aint it!!' 'Why yall do her like that...smh disrespectful'; 'Yeah i think you got a lot of her feature wrong again its actually embarrassing next time please hit me up ill help'. The summits in Saudi Arabia follow Washington's decision to reinstate tough sanctions against Iran and to deploy 1,500 more troops to the Middle East amid sabotage attacks on oil facilities Regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia hosts Islamic, Arab and Gulf summits this week as tensions between Iran and the US raise fears of military escalation. The three summits in Mecca, Islam's holiest city, allow US ally Riyadh the chance to present unified Islamic, Arab and Gulf fronts against its arch-rival Tehran. Iran itself has not yet confirmed whether it will attend the meeting of the Organisation of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC), of which it is a member. Hussein Ibish, a scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, said Riyadh's aim was "to consolidate Arab and Muslim support, anticipating intensified confrontation or diplomacy". Washington has reinstated tough sanctions against Tehran and decided to deploy 1,500 more troops to the Middle East amid sabotage attacks on oil facilities. Two Saudi oil tankers, among four vessels, were the targets of mysterious acts of sabotage off the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this month, and Iran-aligned Yemeni rebels have stepped up drone attacks on the kingdom -- one of which resulted in the temporary shutdown of a major oil pipeline. Tehran has repeatedly threatened to close the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which 35 percent of the world's seaborne oil passes. The Arab League and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) emergency summits called by Saudi Arabia are to be held on Thursday, a day before the long-scheduled OIC summit. It is not yet clear how many countries will take part in the emergency gatherings, but Qatar -- which has been boycotted by a Saudi-led alliance -- has been invited to attend the GCC meeting. Riyadh cut diplomatic ties with Tehran in 2016 after protesters stormed Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran following its execution of a prominent Shiite cleric. - No easy task - The OIC summit will address "current issues in the Muslim world" and "recent developments in a number of OIC member states", the official agenda states. Saudi Arabia and its allies have repeatedly accused Iran of interfering in the affairs of other countries, including Bahrain, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen, by supporting and arming fighters. "Unity and coordination of positions are necessary at this critical time, and Riyadh... is qualified to play that role," the UAE minister of state for foreign affairs, Anwar Gargash, tweeted last week. But the kingdom's aim of a unified Islamic, Arab and Gulf position is likely to be difficult to achieve. Qatar has grown closer to Iran, while Kuwait has expressed concern over Iranian threats to close the Strait of Hormuz. Oman, which has good ties with both Iran and the United States, has said it and other parties "seek to calm tensions" between the two countries. Ahead of the summits, Iran's top diplomats have been touring the region, including Iraq, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar. Iran, which shares a border with Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq and Turkey, also has good relations with Ankara and Islamabad. The Islamic republic supports political groups in Lebanon, Iraq and Syria. "Several countries may not like Iran and its regional misbehaviour but may prefer to avoid a confrontational or condemning stance," said Simon Henderson, a researcher at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. - 'Bargaining power' - Saudi Arabia and the US have accused Iran of being the mastermind behind the Yemeni rebels' attack on a major pipeline, while an investigation has been launched into the attacks on ships off the UAE. The US Central Command, which oversees American military operations in the Middle East, has between 60,000 and 80,000 troops deployed in the area. On Friday, US President Donald Trump bypassed Congress to sell $8.1 billion in arms to Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies, citing an alleged threat from Iran. "Resuming its (Iran's) nuclear activities, making its presence felt in the region, and disrupting Saudi or Emirati oil exports could all be ways of enhancing its bargaining power," the International Crisis Group said in a report. "But if these manoeuvres are a diplomatic game, it is a dangerous one: either side could misinterpret the other's intentions." Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir has said his country does not want to go to war with Iran but was ready to defend its interests. Hundreds of Egyptian soldiers have been killed in jihadist attacks in North Sinai province, where rights groups accuse security forces of mass abuses Human Rights Watch on Tuesday accused both Egyptian security forces and insurgents of committing "war crimes" in North Sinai, the scene of a bloody years-long insurgency and military crackdown. "While Egyptian military and police forces were responsible for the majority of abuses documented in the report, extremist militants have also committed horrific crimes," the New York-based group said in a 134-page report. "Some of the abuses carried out by government forces and the militants, which this report documents, are war crimes, and their widespread and systematic nature could amount to crimes against humanity." Egypt has for years been fighting a hardened insurgency in North Sinai, which escalated following the 2013 military ouster of Islamist president Mohamed Morsi. Since then, militants have killed hundreds of police officers and soldiers. Military spokesman Colonel Tamer al-Rifai rejected the HRW report as "untruthful". "It is based on unverified sources. Some politicised organisations are intent on tarnishing Egypt's image and its armed forces with baseless claims," he told AFP. In February 2018, the army launched an operation against the militants, focusing mainly on North Sinai province. According to a tally of death tolls given by the armed forces, around 650 militants and about 45 soldiers have since been killed. HRW estimated at least 3,076 alleged militants and 1,226 security forces were killed in fighting between 2014 and 2018. The watchdog compiled the report over two years, interviewing more than 50 residents of the Sinai Peninsula, where independent media coverage is effectively banned and a state of emergency has been in force since 2013. In late 2017, North Sinai was the scene of the deadliest attack in Egypt's modern history when militants killed more than 300 worshippers at a mosque, without any group claiming responsibility. Islamist militants have kidnapped and tortured scores of residents as well as attacking security forces. Security forces have also targeted Sinai residents, arresting thousands and forcibly "disappearing" dozens, according to the HRW report. It estimates that over 12,000 people were arrested from July 2013 until December 2018. Children as young as 12 have been detained in routine sweeps and ended up in secret prisons, it said. Alongside the report, a video was released showing footage of air strikes on residents' homes and extrajudicial killings of suspected jihadists by security forces. "Why all of this? Should we carry weapons and work with the militants or work with the army or live like victims? Everyone is preying on us," said one North Sinai resident interviewed anonymously for the report. Rifai, the military spokesman, said Egypt's forces had taken the lives of residents into consideration with "air strikes taking place outside of residential areas". HRW called on the United States to halt all military assistance to Egypt until gross violations are fully investigated. "Instead of protecting Sinai residents in their fight against militants, the Egyptian security forces have shown utter contempt to residents' lives, turning their daily life into a nonstop nightmare of abuses," said Michael Page, the group's deputy Middle East director. "This horrific treatment of Sinai residents should be another wake-up call to countries like the US and France that heedlessly endorse Egypt's counterterrorism efforts." During the war games, aircraft practised landing on a closed highway in central Taiwan for the annual "Han Kuang" (Han Glory) war games Taiwan displayed how its fighter jets can land, refuel and rearm on the island's highways Tuesday as part of its largest annual exercise simulating defence against a Chinese invasion. The self-ruled island has long lived under the threat of invasion by Beijing which views Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to take it back by force if necessary. Chinese military and diplomatic pressure has been significantly ramped up since the 2016 election of President Tsai Ing-wen, whose government refuses to acknowledge that the self-ruled island is part of "one China". This week Taiwan's 23 million inhabitants have witnessed stark reminders of the military threats they face. On Monday the streets were briefly deserted as authorities carried out an annual missile drill across the island's north, with text messages sent to every mobile phone and air raid sirens wailing. The following day 1,600 soldiers were mobilised in central Taiwan as aircraft practised landing on a closed highway for the annual "Han Kuang" (Han Glory) war games. Three jet fighters as well as an early warning aircraft also practised refuelling and loading missiles and other ammunition before taking off again. The aircraft also practised refuelling and loading missiles and other ammunition before taking off again Taiwan would be massively outgunned in terms of troop numbers and firepower in any war with China but it has developed sophisticated asymmetric tactics to hold out for as long as possible and make any invasion of the island hugely costly for Beijing. "There are only a few military air bases which would become the prime targets in the event of an attack. The highway drill is necessary as highway strips would be our priority choice if the runways are damaged during a war," air force Colonel Shu Kuo-mao told reporters. Inspecting the drill on Tuesday, president Tsai referred to the marked uptick in Chinese naval and airforce patrols in recent months which have rattled nerves. "They have caused a certain degree of threat to regional peace and stability. We should maintain high vigilance," she said. The manoeuvres in Taiwan come after the US, Japan, South Korea and Australia kicked off operation "Pacific Vanguard" near Guam, bringing together more than 3,000 sailors from the four countries last week. Beijing has also been angered by warming relations between Taipei and Washington since Tsai came to power. On Monday, Beijing reacted frostily to photos showing a rare meeting between uniformed Taiwanese officers and their US counterparts earlier this month. Last week, China lodged a protest with Washington after two US warships sailed through the Taiwan Strait. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has so far failed to form a coalition following April elections Israel edged closer to snap polls as a bill to dissolve parliament passed its first reading in the early hours of Tuesday morning, despite a general election last month. Pitched into chaos by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's failure to form a governing coalition after the April polls, the Knesset voted 66 to 44 in favour of a new election, tentatively scheduled for September 17, the parliament's website said. Later on Tuesday a committee was to meet to prepare the bill for its second and third readings, which if passed would make the bill law. No timetable was published for the two final votes on the legislation, which had passed an initial reading Monday night. Netanyahu's Likud party submitted the bill to dissolve parliament Monday as a Wednesday night deadline to form a viable coalition loomed with negotiations deadlocked. Distribution of seats in the current Israeli parliament, the Knesset Ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman has blocked a deal by refusing to budge from a key demand -- and he showed no sign of backing down on Monday. Lieberman is seeking a guarantee that legislation aimed at having ultra-Orthodox Jews perform mandatory military service -- like other Jewish Israelis -- be approved without changes. His party controls five seats in parliament and Netanyahu needs his support for the coalition he is seeking. If a deal is not reached by Wednesday night's deadline, Israeli President Reuven Rivlin could give Netanyahu another two weeks if he concludes the premier is the only person capable of forming a government. Alternatively, Rivlin could ask another member of parliament to take on the task. Netanyahu is widely seen as preferring new elections rather than leaving the choice up to Rivlin, due to the possibility someone else could be selected. Netanyahu could also seek to form a minority government. Indonesian riot police fire tear gas at protesters demonstrating against the re-election of Indonesian president Joko Widodo. Authorities say they uncovered an assassination plot that could have been libnked to the riots Four Indonesian officials, including its chief security minister and the president's top intelligence advisor, were targeted in a failed assassination plot that may be linked to deadly riots in Jakarta, police said Tuesday. Details of the alleged plan come less than a week after eight demonstrators were killed and hundreds injured during the capital's worst violence in years. The heart of the city descended into chaos over two nights of street battles between riot police and protesters opposed to Joko Widodo's re-election as leader of the world's biggest Muslim-majority country. A group of six people -- arrested before they could carry out the killings -- planned to murder the officials and an election pollster in a bid to plunge the country into chaos, authorities said Tuesday. The ringleader was arrested near the riots with a gun last week, they added. Chief Security Minister Wiranto, State Intelligence Agency chief Budi Gunawan, Widodo's intelligence and security advisor Gories Mere and cabinet minister Luhut Pandjaitan were the assassination targets, according to police. "The plot to assassinate national figures was meant to create fear," Wiranto, who goes by one name, told a press briefing Tuesday. Authorities -- who said Widodo was not a target -- did not reveal when the alleged plot was to have been carried out. Last week's protests were sparked by official election results that showed Widodo easily beat rival Prabowo Subianto, a retired general who has launched a court challenge over claims that the April 17 poll was rigged against him. Various groups converged on central Jakarta, including Subianto supporters and hardline Islamic militants who wanted to spark chaos by setting off bombs during the protests, authorities have claimed. Also Tuesday, police said they had arrested 10 people for spreading fake news and hoaxes about the riots, which is a crime under Indonesia's electronic information law. Among the claims was a debunked report that police raided a mosque and another that falsely suggested Indonesian security forces had enlisted the help of Chinese troops to quell the civil unrest. Jakarta took the unusual step of temporarily blocking Indonesia's 130-million strong Internet users from sharing photos and videos on platforms like WhatsApp and Twitter during the unrest. Indonesian police themselves are under the spotlight after online videos surfaced that appeared to show officers beating some protesters. There are also questions about how the demonstrators -- including a 15-year-old high school student -- died. Police have insisted they did not shoot live rounds, but instead used rubber bullets, water cannons and tear gas to push back the crowds. Some of the dead were reported to have had gunshot wounds. OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - Oklahoma is poised to become the first state to go to trial in a lawsuit against the makers of pharmaceuticals blamed for contributing to the nation's opioid crisis. Although several states have reached settlements with drugmakers, including Oklahoma's agreements this year with OxyContin-maker Purdue Pharma and Teva Pharmaceuticals, the trial set to begin Tuesday against consumer products giant Johnson & Johnson and some of its subsidiaries, could bring to light documents and testimony that show what companies knew, when they knew it and how they responded. The outcome could also shape negotiations on how to resolve the roughly 1,500 opioid lawsuits filed by state, local and tribal governments that have been consolidated before a federal judge in Ohio. Here are some things to know about the Oklahoma trial: Q: Who are the players? A: Oklahoma will be represented by three law firms that stand to earn up to 25 percent of any award, combined. The firms netted nearly $60 million for their work negotiating the Purdue settlement. Although 13 companies were initially listed as defendants, pre-trial settlements have left Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, which produced opioid drugs including Nucynta and the fentanyl patch Duragesic. FILE - In this Monday, March 6, 2006, file photo, Oklahoma state Rep. Thad Balkman, R-Norman, introduces a bill on the Oklahoma House floor in Oklahoma City. Balkman, now a Cleveland County District Judge, is the presiding judge in the trial, scheduled to begin Tuesday, May 28, 2019, as Oklahoma sues opioid drugmakers. (AP Photo/File) Cleveland County District Judge Thad Balkman, who is presiding in the case, is a former Republican state legislator appointed to the bench by former GOP Gov. Mary Fallin in 2013. Balkman, not a jury, will decide the case. He is allowing cameras in the courtroom, which is a rarity in Oklahoma. Q: What are the allegations? A: Oklahoma alleges that the drugmakers helped create a public health crisis in the state by extensively marketing highly addictive opioids for years in a way that overstated their effectiveness and underplayed the risk of addiction. "The damage defendants' false and deceptive marketing campaigns caused to the state of Oklahoma is catastrophic," the lawsuit states. "As a result of the defendants' egregious conduct, the state of Oklahoma paid, and continues to pay, millions of dollars for health care costs that stem from prescription opioid dependency." The companies maintain that they are part of a lawful and heavily regulated industry that is subject to strict federal oversight, and that doctors are the ones who prescribe the drugs. Much of the opioid crisis, they argue, is the result of illegal activity, such as drugs being stolen or fraudulently obtained. Q: What has happened so far? A: Both sides have been wrangling for two years over many pretrial issues in the complicated case, and while a settlement is still possible, the state and Johnson & Johnson both say they are ready for trial. Because many of those documents involve trade secrets or marketing strategies and have been filed under seal, experts say much of the litigation so far has been marked by a great deal of secrecy. "Lots of documents have been redacted, sealed or exchanged pursuant to confidentiality agreements," said Stanford Law School professor Nora Freeman Engstrom, a nationally recognized expert in tort law and legal ethics who has been closely following the case. "Starting (Tuesday), the court will pull back the curtain. It'll provide one of the first opportunities to see what started, and what fueled, this public health crisis." Q: What's unique about Oklahoma? A: Since it's the first of the many opioid lawsuits set to go to trial, the Oklahoma suit could stand as a test case for the companies and other states to hone their own legal strategies and arguments. Q: Does the trial have significance outside of Oklahoma? A: A federal judge in Ohio who is overseeing about 1,500 of the other cases has been pushing for the industry and governments to reach a global settlement that would make a dent in the opioid crisis. A verdict in this trial could help shape those negotiations. Some family members of those who have died from opioid overdoses say they don't want the cases settled and would rather see the companies' role in the opioid crisis revealed in a trial. Opioids, including prescription drugs and illicit ones such as heroin, were factors in nearly 48,000 deaths in the U.S. in 2017, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That was more deaths than the number of people killed in automobile crashes that year. ___ Associated Press writer Geoff Mulvihill in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, contributed to this report. ___ Follow Sean Murphy on Twitter: https://twitter.com/apseanmurphy A host of music stars from around the world will descend on Glasgow this August for the 16th year of the Piping Live! festival. The international piping event returns to the city from August 10-18, with more than 5,000 pipers performing at 150 events. Acts will travel from as far as New Zealand, Malaysia and Canada, attracting more than 40,000 music fans to Glasgow. Performers including Dougie MacLean, Finlay Johnston, Daimh and Lunasa were announced for the festival with Hollywood-style stars displayed in Buchanan Street. Piping Live! is now in its 16th year (Chris James/PA) Festival director Roddy MacLeod said: Each year, we bring the stars of traditional music to Glasgow, so this year we decided to pay tribute to them by creating our very own Piping Walk of Fame to unveil our headliners. Our 16th year is set to be an incredible festival we have some of the biggest performers putting on events throughout the city, family fun at our Street Cafe and evening concerts not to be missed. There really is something for everyone and we look forward to enjoying an amazing event with you all in August. General tickets for the festival go on sale from Friday. Arsenal and Chelsea will contest an all-English Europa League final in Azerbaijans capital city Baku on Wednesday. It is the first time two English sides will meet in the tournaments showpiece since Tottenham beat Wolves over two legs in 1972 when the competition was known as the UEFA Cup. Here, Press Association Sport takes a look at the main talking points. Safety first for no-go Mkhitaryan Having considered all the current options, we had to take the tough decision for me not to travel with the squad to the #UEL Final against #Chelsea [...] pic.twitter.com/3CPrTvLquy Henrikh Mkhitaryan (@HenrikhMkh) May 21, 2019 Arsenal midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan will play no part in the final. The Armenia international will not be travelling due to the on-going dispute between his country and Azerbaijan. Despite assurances from Azerbaijan against any threat of violence, the 30-year-old was not convinced about his safety on the pitch and some Gunners fans have debated on social media whether to boycott the final in protest. He has featured in 11 of Arsenals 14 Europa League ties this season, but missed their group game against Qarabag in Baku in October for the same reason. Problems getting there and Baku again UEFA has been criticised for choosing Baku to host a major European final and apologised for the travel chaos experienced by both clubs fans, who face a round trip of 5,000 miles. Arsenal and Chelsea have been allocated only 6,000 tickets each, which represents 17 per cent of the 68,000-capacity Olympic Stadium, due to restrictions over the number of people Bakus airport can handle. Despite concerns the stadium might only be two-thirds full, UEFA has defended its decision, saying it would be utterly unfair to exclude certain venues just based on their decentralised geographical position. Hazard can sign off in style Eden Hazard could be making his final appearance for Chelsea (Mike Egerton/PA) Eden Hazard will want to bow out with a bang in what is expected to be his final game for Chelsea. The 28-year-old, who has said he has made a decision over his future and informed the club, appears likely to join Real Madrid later this summer. The Belgium forward has a year left on his contract at Stamford Bridge, but Chelsea are currently fighting a FIFA transfer ban over Financial Fair Play rules and cashing in on their prize asset now, rather than losing him for nothing next summer, would help balance the books. Hazard joined Chelsea from Lille for 32million in 2012. Arrivederci Signor Sarri? Europa League success may not be enough to keep Maurizio Sarri at Stamford Bridge (Steven Paston/PA) Maurizio Sarri could also be involved in his final game for Chelsea as speculation mounts over his future. The 60-year-old has not had an easy ride at Stamford Bridge after replacing fellow Italian Antonio Conte last July. He publicly criticised his players in January, while it has been reported some senior players will look to leave the club if he remains in charge. Champions League qualification and a possible Europa League crown is no guarantee that he will still be at the helm, with Massimiliano Allegri again linked with Chelsea after leaving Juventus and declaring his desire for an immediate new challenge. Emery is Mr Europa League Unai Emery is bidding for a record fourth Europa League win (Tim Goode/PA) Arsenal boss Unai Emery will make it a record-breaking fourth Europa League win as manager if his side overcome their London rivals. Emery, appointed as Arsene Wengers successor just over a year ago, guided his former club Sevilla to three successive tournament wins in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Giovanni Trapattoni is the only other manager to win the tournament three times, with Juventus (1977 and 1993) and Inter Milan (1991). Jose Mourinho (Porto and Manchester United) and Rafael Benitez (Valencia and Chelsea) are among five managers to have won it on two occasions. Ireland and France have made a joint pitch for EU funding for a one billion euro electricity link between the countries as part of post-Brexit energy planning. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and French President Emmanuel Macron have submitted a joint request to the European Commission seeking financial support for the Celtic Interconnector. The proposed connector between the south coast of Ireland and north-west coast of France would stretch for 500 kilometres under the sea. Mr Varadkar and Mr Macron co-signed a letter on the issue during a bilateral meeting before a gathering of the European Council in Brussels on Tuesday. They have written to commission president Jean-Claude Juncker requesting support for a grant application that would see the EU foot 60% of the bill. Mr Varadkar said the first direct link between Irelands electricity network and mainland Europe would be vital in the post-Brexit landscape. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar (Brian Lawless/PA) The Taoiseach and Mr Macron had already pledged to pursue the project at a recent meeting in Paris. The Celtic Interconnector will help to reduce electricity prices, support climate action, and provide greater energy security for Ireland, said Mr Varadkar. Our two countries are working together to seek EU funding for 60% of the overall one billion euro cost of the project, with the balance coming from commercial revenue. Im delighted that France has agreed to join Ireland in making this grant application, and I particularly want to thank President Macron for his personal support. This demonstrates the ever-closer relationship between Ireland and France, which will be Irelands closest EU neighbour when the UK leaves. I also welcome the excellent co-operation between the Irish and French national regulatory authorities. By Stephanie Nebehay GENEVA, May 28 (Reuters) - North Koreans are forced to pay bribes to officials to survive in their isolated country, where corruption is "endemic" and repression rife, the United Nations human rights office said on Tuesday. Officials across North Korea extort money from a population struggling to make ends meet, threatening them with detention and prosecution - particularly those working in the informal economy, it said in a report. There was no immediate comment by Pyongyang, which was sent the U.N. report hours before publication. North Korea blames the dire humanitarian situation on U.N. sanctions imposed for its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes since 2006. But the report said that the military receives priority funding amid "economic mismanagement". "I am concerned that the constant focus on the nuclear issue continues to divert attention from the terrible state of human rights for many millions of North Koreans," Michelle Bachelet, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, said in a statement. "The rights to food, health, shelter, work, freedom of movement and liberty are universal and inalienable, but in North Korea they depend primarily on the ability of individuals to bribe State officials," she said. Four in 10 North Koreans, or 10.1 million people, are chronically short of food and further cuts to already minimal rations are expected after the worst harvest in a decade, a U.N. assessment said earlier this month. "The threat of arrest, detention and prosecution provide State officials with a powerful means of extorting money from a population struggling to survive," the U.N. rights office report said. Bribery is "an everyday feature of people's struggle to make ends meet", said the report, entitled "The price is rights". It denounced what it called a "vicious cycle of deprivation, corruption and repression". It is based on 214 interviews with North Korean "escapees", mainly from the northeastern provinces of Ryanggang and North Hamgyong, bordering China. They were the first to be cut from the public distribution system that collapsed in 1994, leading to a famine estimated to have killed up to 1 million, it said. "If you just follow instructions coming from the State, you starve to death," a woman from Ryanggang, now living in South Korea, was quoted as saying. CASH OR CIGARETTES "If you have money you can get away with anything, including murder," another unnamed North Korean defector testified. Many North Koreans pay bribes of cash or cigarettes not to have to report to state-assigned jobs where they receive no salary, thus allowing them to earn income in rudimentary markets, the report said. Others bribe border guards to cross into China, where women are vulnerable to trafficking into forced marriages or the sex trade, it added. Bachelet urged North Korean authorities to stop prosecuting people for engaging in legitimate market activity and to allow them freedom of movement within the country and abroad. China should not forcibly repatriate North Koreans, she added. The United States called on North Korea this month to "dismantle all political prison camps" and release all political prisoners, who it said numbered between 80,000 and 120,000. (Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; Editing by Hugh Lawson) SOFIA, May 28 (Reuters) - These are some of the main stories in Bulgarian newspapers on Tuesday. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy. -- Korneliya Ninova, leader of the opposition Bulgarian Socialist Party, would ask the partys executive committee to call a leadership contest after the Socialists came a distant second in the European Parliament elections on Sunday (24 Chasa, Trud, Sega, Monitor, Duma) -- Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has vetoed amendments to the State Property Act meant to speed up expropriation of land for major infrastructure projects (24 Chasa, Trud) -- Bulgaria is among the five European Union's countries with the lowest proportion of temporary employment with a share of only 4 percent of temporary workers, Eurostat's analysis of European Union labour market trends in 2018 showed (Trud, Monitor) BELGRADE/PRISTINA, May 28 (Reuters) - Serbia ordered its security forces on full alert on Tuesday after police in neighbouring Kosovo mounted an anti-smuggling operation in a northern region of the country populated mainly by Serbs. The move came amid rising tension in four Serb-populated municipalities in Kosovo's north, which remains largely outside control of Pristina and pledges allegiance to Belgrade. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Monday acknowledged Belgrade had lost control over Kosovo, its former southern province, but warned it would react if Kosovo attacked Serbs there. In the Kosovan operation, police arrested dozens of officers on Tuesday, including ethnic Serbs, accused of smuggling goods into the country. They said police had faced "armed resistance" and one policeman was wounded. Serbian state RTS TV reported two Serbs were also wounded during the police action. Belgrade saw the action as an attempt by Pristina authorities to take control of northern parts of Kosovo which border Serbia, and Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic placed special police units under alert. The head of Serbia's Office for Kosovo, Marko Djuric, said Kosovo police "armed to their teeth" raided four Serb municipalities in the north. "They did it with an aim to intimidate and if possible to sow panic...to create an impossible climate for Serbs in Kosovo," Djuric said in a broadcast on Serbia's RTS TV. Emergency sirens sounded in the Serb part of Mitrovica and people gathered in the town's main square but no incidents occurred, witnesses said. Kosovo police said their investigation had been launched months ago. The operation also took place in other parts of the country. "I confirm that the operation is about law enforcement and nothing else. I call Serbs in north to stay calm and respect the law," Kosovo Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj said. Majority-Albanian Kosovo declared independence in 2008, almost a decade after NATO air strikes wrested control of the territory away from Belgrade to end a counter-insurgency campaign by Serbian security forces. But Serbia, which under its constitution considers Kosovo an integral part of its territory, has been blocking Kosovo from membership of international institutions including Interpol and UNESCO. It also still provides financial aid to Serbs in Kosovo. Smuggling is rampant in the area and it further increased since Kosovo last November introduced 100 percent tariffs on goods from Serbia. (Reporting by Fatos Bytyci in Pristina and Aleksandar Vasovic in Belgrade, Editing by Angus MacSwan) By Lacey Johnson OXON HILL, Md., May 28 (Reuters) - The Scripps National Spelling Bee got underway on Tuesday with most young spelling aces breezing through tricky words like "kentledge" but a few striking out on stumpers like "horripilation." . Some 562 youngsters age 7 to 15 faced off at the start of the tournament that offers a $50,000 cash jackpot. The competition concludes on Thursday with an ESPN telecast. "My brain is dripping out my ears," said Erin Howard, 14, of Huntsville, Alabama, who has been studying for roughly 25 hours a week since March to compete in her fourth and final year before she ages out of the national bee. "There's definitely a lot of pressure to do well," said Howard, who advanced to the next round by correctly spelling the word "oyez," a call given by a court officer to command silence and attention. "I don't really care about the money. I just enjoy the words and being onstage and hanging out with the spellers," she said. Brody Krause, 10, of Thornton, Colorado, didn't fare as well, departing the stage after misspelling "parochialism." "I'm extremely disappointed," said Krause, competing for the first time at the tournament which began in 1925. Krause noted he spent his own money on a dictionary to prepare for the bee, which this year drew spelling aces from all 50 U.S. states, U.S. territories and six other countries including the Bahamas, Canada, Ghana, Jamaica, Japan and South Korea. "I'm just so proud of him," said his mother, Suzette Krause, 50, fighting back tears. "It's hard as a mama. I don't want to make him hate spelling." The event takes place at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Oxon Hill, Maryland. The Unabridged Online version of the Merriam-Webster Dictionary is the official source of bee words, said bee spokeswoman Valerie Miller. That includes "horripilation," which is the bristling of hairs on the skin, and "kentledge," which is scrap metal used as ballast in a nautical vessel. Under 2019 tournament rules, if no single winner emerges in the final round, the top prize may be split by co-winners, which has occurred six times in its history, or even tri-winners, which has never happened, said bee spokeswoman Valerie Miller. Co-champs would split a total of the $50,000 first-place prize plus the $25,000 second-place prize. Tri-champs would split a total of $75,000 plus the $15,000 third-place prize, Miller said. (Additional reporting by Barbara Goldberg in New York; Editing by David Gregorio) DOHA, May 28 (Reuters) - Trump's national security adviser John Bolton arrived in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday for talks on "important and timely regional security matters" scheduled for Wednesday, he said in a tweet. Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States after an attack this month on oil tankers in the Gulf. Washington, a close ally of Iran's regional rivals Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, blamed the attacks on Tehran, which denied the accusations. (Reporting by Ali Abdelaty; Writing by Eric Knecht; Editing by Alison Williams) By Catarina Demony LISBON, May 28 (Reuters) - Brazilian Justice Minister Sergio Moro said on Tuesday that the prison gang leaders responsible for killing 55 inmates in prisons across the northern city of Manaus will be moved to maximum security federal jails. Speaking at an event in Portugal, Moro said that the grisly spate of murders at the weekend were a result of a struggle between prison gangs, a public security issue in Brazil, the country with the world's highest number of murders. "The information we have is that there was a conflict between criminal gangs inside the prisons, which can happen anywhere in the world - but shouldn't," he told reporters. "We have an obligation to try to control these cases. We will transfer the leaders responsible for these acts in Manaus to prisons of maximum security." At least 40 prisoners in Brazil were found strangled to death on Monday in four jails in the Amazon city, where a fight between rival gangs resulted in 15 dead the day before, authorities said. Brazil's far-right President Jair Bolsonaro has vowed to regain control of the prisons along with building many more. But the vast majority of prisons are administered at the state level. For decades they have been badly overcrowded and out of control of local authorities, essentially serving as recruiting centers for drug gangs. A federal task force is being sent to Manaus in an effort to halt the violence. Prison clashes often spread rapidly in Brazil, where drug gangs have de facto control over nearly all jails. (Reporting by Catarina Demony; additional reporting by Gabriel Stargardter; editing by Grant McCool) The foremost national security challenge in the field of conventional conflict confronting the new government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is that the country must be prepared to fight a two-front war. The factors that drive such a threat perception and the challenges in facing a two-front situation need to be dispassionately analysed. A Tight Spot: India has territorial disputes with both China and Pakistan. (Photo: Reuters) With both China and Pakistan, India has unresolved territorial disputes. India fought a local border war with China in 1962 and has fought with Pakistan in 1947-48, 1965 and 1971. In addition, India had to launch military operations to evict Pakistani soldiers who had intruded across the Line of Control (LoC) in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) in 1999. China looks at India as competition China sees India as a strategic competitor and a rival for leadership in the Indo-Pacific region. As part of its grand strategy, China seeks to confine India to the backwaters of the Indian Ocean as a subaltern state and is using Pakistan as a proxy to keep India embroiled in conflict. The India-China relationship has been stable at the strategic level but it is marked by political, diplomatic, and military instability at the tactical level. Troubled Waters: China looks at India as competition in the Indian Ocean region. (Photo: Reuters) While transgressions by Chinas Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) across the undemarcated Line of Actual Control (LAC) are perennial, for many decades, China had supported insurgencies in Indias north-eastern states. Pakistan, the international community now agrees, is a state sponsor of terrorism and has been providing support to militancy and radical extremism in J&K since 1989-90. China's Diplomacy rigid but strong On the diplomatic front, China has been particularly assertive in recent years. For many years, China refused to allow Masood Azhar, the founder of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) group, to be labelled a terrorist by the UN sanctions committee. China's Great Wall: Chinese diplomacy is strong and protected Pakistan's Masood Azhar for ages. (Photo: Reuters) It has blocked Indias membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group as it wants simultaneous entry for Pakistan one of the worlds worst proliferators. China objects every time an Indian political leader visits Arunachal Pradesh an Indian state that it claims and had lodged a protest even at the visit of the Dalai Lama to a monastery in the state. China and Pakistan all-weather friendship The collusive nuclear warhead-ballistic missile-military hardware nexus between China and Pakistan, described by both as an all-weather friendship, has grown to menacing proportions. It has been deepened further with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) beginning to take shape. CPEC is part of Chinas belt and road initiative (BRI) that seeks to extend Chinas strategic outreach deep into the Indo-Pacific region, give a fillip to its flagging economy by generating large-scale construction activity and create new markets for its products. Passing through disputed territory in Gilgit-Baltistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), the US$62 billion project will link Xingjian province of China with the Gwadar port on the Makran coast west of Karachi. United Mission: China's friendship with Pakistan has become even stronger with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. (Photo: Reuters) The history of the military collusion between China and Pakistan goes back over fifty years. During the 1965 and 1971 India-Pakistan wars, China had made some threatening military manoeuvres in Tibet in support of Pakistan. The aim was to keep Indian military reserves tied down, so that additional divisions could not be moved from the eastern theatre to the western front. It is also noteworthy that during the Kargil conflict in 1999, Chinese military advisors were reported to have been present at Skardu in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. It was in this context that General Deepak Kapoor, then COAS, had said during the Army Training Command doctrine seminar in late-December 2009 that the Indian army must prepare for a two-front war. Several armed forces Chiefs have repeated this formulation since then and it has become the sine qua non for Indias defence preparedness. In fact, some former Chiefs have spoken of the need to prepare for a two and a half-front war the implication is that the army is already engaged in a half-front war by way of counter-insurgency operations that drain resources in J&K and some of the north-eastern states. Also, during a future war with either China or Pakistan, given the unstable internal security environment, there will be a requirement to keep the internal lines of communication safe from interdiction and sabotage. The conventional wisdom in the policy community in New Delhi is that if there is a war between India and Pakistan, China may not come to Pakistans aid militarily unless Chinese troops are directly under attack, for example, in Gilgit-Baltistan. China will raise the issue in the United Nations Security Council, provide weapons and defence equipment as well as logistics support and probably demonstrate some military manoeuvres in Tibet to pin down dual-tasked Indian divisions. If there is a war between India and China, Pakistan is certain to take advantage of the situation and open another front against India. Pakistans offensive operations will probably begin in J&K, but may not necessarily remain limited to J&K. Can India fight both China and Pakistan simultaneously? The armed forces will be stretched to the limit but, given adequate resources, they could fight a holding action successfully though with large-scale casualties. However, given the present force levels, they cannot fight and win. They cannot hope to terminate the conflict on Indias terms and impose the nations will upon the adversaries. As such, the political and military aims and objectives will have to be kept low. Fighting to Win? India can only fight a holding action in case of a two-way fight. (Photo: Reuters) Ideally, Indias strategic partnerships should be of sufficient significance to ensure that India is never required to fight a two-front war. Though it was not a military alliance, the treaty of peace, friendship and cooperation, which India had signed with the erstwhile Soviet Union before the 1971 war, had ensured that China refrained from aiding Pakistan militarily during the war. The Indo-US strategic partnership has been described as Indias principal strategic partnership. Its defence cooperation element must be taken to the next higher trajectory joint threat assessment, joint contingency planning and the conduct of joint operations when necessary so that a situation similar to 1971 obtains in future and Indias military adversaries are deterred from ganging up against India. Also read: Whose surgical strike anyway: The armed forces are caught in a messy tug-of-war between the BJP and the Congress Tailored Brands, Inc. (NYSE:TLRD) announced its earnings results on Wednesday, March, 18th. The company reported ($0.46) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts' consensus estimates of ($0.54) by $0.08. The company earned $690.90 million during the quarter, compared to analysts' expectations of $708.46 million. Tailored Brands had a negative net margin of 14.39% and a negative trailing twelve-month return on equity of 138.49%. The firm's quarterly revenue was down 12.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted ($0.28) earnings per share. View Tailored Brands' earnings history. The following companies are subsidiares of Abbott Laboratories: 3A Nutrition (Vietnam) Company Limited, ABON Biopharm (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd., AGA Medical Belgium, AGA Medical Corporation, AGA Medical Holdings Inc., ALR Holdings, AML Medical LLC, APK Advanced Medical Technologies LLC, ATS Bermuda Holdings Limited, ATS Laboratories Inc., Abbott, Abbott (Jiaxing) Nutrition Co. 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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. North American Construction Group Ltd. provides mining and heavy construction services to the resource development and industrial construction sectors in Canada and the United States The company's Heavy Construction & Mining division offers constructability reviews, budgetary cost estimates, design-build construction, project management, contract mining, pre-stripping/pit pioneering, overburden removal and stockpile, muskeg removal and stockpile, site preparation, air strip construction, site dewatering/perimeter ditching, tailings and process pipelines, haulage and access road construction, tailings dam construction and densification, mechanically stabilized earth walls, dyke construction, and reclamation services. Its Equipment Maintenance Services division provides fuel and lube servicing, portable steaming, equipment inspections, parts and component supply, major overhauls and equipment refurbishment, onsite haul truck brake testing, onsite maintenance support, under carriage rebuild, machining, hose manufacturing, and technical support services, as well as welding, fabrication/repairs, weld certification, and inspection services. As of December 31, 2020, the company had a heavy equipment fleet of 626 units. The company was formerly known as North American Energy Partners Inc. and changed its name to North American Construction Group Ltd. in April 2018. The company was founded in 1953 and is headquartered in Acheson, Canada. Read More 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 iShares Silver Trust's stock was trading at $15.63 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, SLV stock has increased by 36.1% and is now trading at $21.27. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Guyana Goldfields Inc. provides exploration and production of gold. It engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, production, and operation of gold mineral properties. The company also owns and operates gold drilling rights. The company was formerly known as Chiboug Copper Company Limited and changed its name to Guyana Goldfields Inc. in January 1995. Guyana Goldfields Inc. was incorporated in 1994 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. As of August 25, 2020, Guyana Goldfields Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Zijin Mining Group Company Limited. Read More iShares MSCI EAFE Value ETF's stock was trading at $38.50 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, EFV stock has increased by 31.7% and is now trading at $50.69. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. The following companies are subsidiares of Lennar: 360 Developers LLC, Alliance Financial Services Inc., Ann Arundel Farms Ltd., Aquaterra Utilities Inc., Arbor Mill Veteran Project 2018 LLC, Asbury Woods L.L.C., Astoria Options LLC, Autumn Creek Development Ltd., Aylon LLC, Azusa Associates LLC, B2 Milpitas LLC, BB Investment Holdings LLC, BCI Properties LLC, BMR Communities LLC, BMR Construction Inc., BMTD LLC, BPH I LLC, Bainebridge 249 LLC, Bay Colony Expansion 369 Ltd., Bellagio Lennar LLC, Belle Meade LEN Holdings LLC, Belle Meade Partners LLC, Black Mountain Ranch LLC, Blue Horizons Estates LLC, Bonterra Lennar LLC, Bramalea California Inc., Bressi Gardenlane LLC, Breton Park Lennar LLC, CAP IL 1 LLC, CL Ventures LLC, CML INACTIVE LLC, CML-MO HAF LLC, CML-MO HAF PARKING LLC, CP Block 6aS LLC, CP Block 8aS LLC, CP Block 9aS LLC, CP Center Apartments LLC, CP Center Garage LLC, CP Red Oak Partners Ltd., CP Vertical Development Co. 1 LLC, CP/HPS Development Co. GP LLC, CP/HPS Development Co.-C LLC, CPFE LLC, CPHP Development LLC, CalAtlantic Financial Services Inc., CalAtlantic Group, CalAtlantic Group Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Arizona Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Georgia Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Texas Inc., CalAtlantic Homes of Washington Inc., CalAtlantic Mortgage Inc., CalAtlantic National Title Solutions LLC, CalAtlantic Title Agency LLC, CalAtlantic Title Group LLC, CalAtlantic Title Inc., CalAtlantic Title LLC, CalAtlantic Title of Maryland Inc., Camarillo Village Park LLC, Cambria L.L.C., Candlestick Retail Member LLC, Cardiovascular Medical Specialists LLC, Carolina Blue LLC, Carson 175 LLC, Cary Woods LLC, Casa Marina Development LLC, Central Park West Holdings LLC, Cherrytree II LLC, Club Bonterra Lennar LLC, Coco Palm 82 LLC, Colonial Heritage LLC, Columbia National Risk Retention Group Inc., Commonwealth Incentive Fee LLC, Concord Station LLP, Coventry L.L.C., Creekside Crossing L.L.C., Crest at Fondren Investor LLC, DBJ Holdings LLC, DCA Financial LLC, DTC Holdings of Florida LLC, Darcy-Joliet L.L.C., Durrell 33 LLC, EL Ventures LLC, EV LLC, Eagle Bend Commercial LLC, Eagle Home Mortgage LLC, Estates Seven LLC, Evergreen Village LLC, F&R QVI Home Investments USA LLC, FLORDADE LLC, Faria Preserve LLC, Fidelity Guaranty and Acceptance Corp., Fidelity Land LLC, Fox-Maple Associates LLC, Friendswood Development Company LLC, GDI MANAGER LLC, Garco Investments LLC, Greystone Construction Inc., Greystone Homes of Nevada Inc., Greystone Nevada Holdings LLC, Greystone Nevada LLC, Greywall Club L.L.C., HCC Investors LLC, HPS Development Co. LP, HPS Vertical Development Co. LLC, HPS Vertical Development Co.-B LP, HPS Vertical Development Co.-D/E LLC, HPS1 Block 1 LLC, HPS1 Block 48-1A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-1B LLC, HPS1 Block 48-2A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-2B LLC, HPS1 Block 48-3A LLC, HPS1 Block 48-3B LLC, HPS1 Block 50 LLC, HPS1 Block 51 LLC, HPS1 Block 52 LLC, HPS1 Block 53 LLC, HPS1 Block 54 LLC, HPS1 Block 55 LLC, HPS1 Block 56/57 LLC, HSP Arizona Inc., HTC Golf Club LLC, Hammocks Lennar LLC, Harbor Highlands Group LLC, Harveston LLC, Haverton L.L.C., Heathcote Commons LLC, Heritage Pkwy East Holdings LLC, Heritage of Auburn Hills L.L.C., Hewitts Landing Trustee LLC, Hingham Properties LLC, Huntley Venture L.L.C., Inactive Companies LLC, Independence L.L.C., Independence Orlando LLC, Isles at Bayshore Club LLC, KMC Real Estate Investors LLC, Kendall Hammocks Commercial LLC, Kentuckiana Medical Center LLC, Kingman Lennar LLC, LB/L Duc III Antioch 330 LLC, LCD Asante LLC, LCI Downtown Doral Investor LLC, LCI North DeKalb Investor GP LLC, LCI North DeKalb Investor LP LLC, LEN - Belle Meade LLC, LEN - OBS Windemere LLC, LEN - Palm Vista LLC, LEN BPT Investor LLC, LEN Mirada Investor LLC, LEN Notarize Investor LLC, LEN OT Holdings LLC, LEN Paradise Cable LLC, LEN Paradise Operating LLC, LEN-CG South LLC, LEN-Cypress Mill LLC, LEN-Ryan 1 LLC, LEN-Touchstone LLC, LENH I LLC, LENNAR HOMES OF TENNESSEE LLC, LFS Holding Company LLC, LH Eastwind LLC, LHI Renaissance LLC, LMC 10th & Acoma Holdings LP, LMC 144th and Grant Investor LLC, LMC 2401 Blake Street Holdings LLC, LMC 2401 Blake Street Investor LLC, LMC 360 Acoma Holdings LP, LMC 410 S Wabash Holdings LLC, LMC 808 Gateway Holdings LLC, LMC 808 Gateway Investor LLC, LMC 8th Avenue Apartment Investor LLC, LMC 990 Bannock Holdings LLC, LMC Axis Westminster Holdings LLC, LMC Axis Westminster Investor LLC, LMC Berry Hill Lofts Holdings LLC, LMC Berry Hill Lofts Investor LLC, LMC Block 42 Holdings LLC, LMC Build to Core III Investor LLC, LMC Build to Core III LLC, LMC Burnside Holdings LLC, LMC Burnside Investor LLC, LMC Chandler and McClintock Holdings LLC, LMC Charlestowne Holdings LLC, LMC Charlotte Ballpark Developer LLC, LMC Cityville Oak Park Holdings LLC, LMC Cityville Oak Park Investor LLC, LMC Cobalt Holdings LLC, LMC Costa Mesa Holdings LP, LMC Crest at Park West Holdings LP, LMC Denver Gateway I Investor LLC, LMC Denver Gateway II Holdings LLC, LMC Development LLC, LMC Downtown Doral South Holdings LLC, LMC Durham Gateway Holdings LP, LMC Evans School Holdings LLC, LMC Gateway Investor LLC, LMC Gateway Venture LLC, LMC Gilman Square Investor LLC, LMC Horton Street Holdings LLC, LMC Huntington Crossing Holdings LLC, LMC Inactive Companies LLC, LMC Lakeside Holdings LP, LMC Leya Holdings LLC, LMC Living Illinois LLC, LMC Living Inc., LMC Living LLC, LMC Living TRS LP, LMC Millenia Investor II LLC, LMC NE Minneapolis Lot 2 Holdings LLC, LMC New Bern Investor LLC, LMC North Park Holdings LP, LMC Parkfield Holdings LLC, LMC Parkfield Investor LLC, LMC Righters Ferry Holdings LLC, LMC River North Holdings LLC, LMC Spring Street Investor LLC, LMC Stonewall Station Investor LLC, LMC Triangle Square Investor LLC, LMC Venture Developer LLC, LMC Verbena Holdings LLC, LMC West Loop Investor LLC, LMCFX Investor LLC, LMCPNW Marymoor Holdings LLC, LMI - Jacksonville Investor LLC, LMI - South Kings Development Investor LLC, LMI - West Seattle Holdings LLC, LMI - West Seattle Investor LLC, LMI - West Seattle LLC, LMI Cell Tower Investors LLC, LMI City Walk Investor LLC, LMI Collegedale Investor LLC, LMI Collegedale LLC, LMI Contractors LLC, LMI Glencoe Dallas Investor LLC, LMI Lakes West Covina Investor LLC, LMI Largo Park Investor LLC, LMI Las Colinas Station LLC, LMI Naperville Investor LLC, LMI Pacific Tower LLC, LMI Park Central Two LLC, LMI Peachtree Corners Investor LLC, LMI Peachtree Corners LLC, LMI-JC Developer LLC, LMI-JC LLC, LMV 1640 Broadway REIT-DC LP, LMV 1701 Ballard REIT-DC LP, LMV 19H REIT-DC LP, LMV 2026 Madison REIT-DC LP, LMV 85 South Union REIT-DC LP, LMV ATown REIT-DC LP, LMV Annapolis REIT-DC LP, LMV Apache Terrace REIT-DC LP, LMV Block 42 REIT-DC LP, LMV Bloomington REIT-DC LP, LMV Bolingbrook REIT-DC LP (DE), LMV Central at McDowell REIT-DC LP, LMV East Village I REIT-DC LP, LMV Edina REIT-DC LP, LMV Fremont WS I REIT-DC LP, LMV Glisan REIT-DC LP, LMV Grand Bay REIT-DC LP, LMV II Grand Bay Pod V Holdings LP, LMV II Kierland Holdings LP, LMV II NoMo Holdings LP, LMV II Venture Developer LLC, LMV II Wynwood Holdings LP, LMV Kirkland REIT-DC LP, LMV Little Italy REIT-DC LP, LMV M Tower REIT-DC LP, LMV Millenia II REIT-DC LP, LMV Milpitas REIT-DC LP, LMV NE Minneapolis REIT-DC LP, LMV Oak Park REIT-DC LP, LMV One20Fourth REIT-DC LP, LMV QR Build to Core Manager LLC, LMV Rio Bravo REIT-DC LP, LMV Scottsdale Quarter REIT-DC LP, LMV Tysons REIT-DC LP, LMV Vallagio III REIT-DC LP, LMV Victory Block G REIT-DC LP, LMV Warren Street REIT-DC LP, LNC Communities II LLC, LNC Communities IV LLC, LNC Communities V LLC, LNC Communities VI LLC, LNC Communities VII LLC, LNC Communities VIII LLC, LNC Pennsylvania Realty Inc., LNC at Meadowbrook LLC, LNC at Ravenna LLC, LS College Park LLC, LS Terracina LLC, LV Opendoor Investor LLC, LV Opendoor JV LLC, LW D'Andrea LLC, Lagoon Valley Residential LLC, Lakelands at Easton L.L.C., Legends Club LLC, Legends Golf Club LLC, Len - Little Harbor LLC, Len FW Investor LLC, Len Paradise LLC, Len-Angeline LLC, Len-Hawks Point LLC, Len-Land LLC, Len-Land West LLC, Len-MN LLC, Len-Verandahs LLP, LenCom LLC, LenFive LLC, LenFive Opco GP LLC, LenFive Sub III LLC, LenFive Sub LLC, LenFive Sub Opco GP LLC, Lenalto CMBS LLC, Lencraft LLC, Lennar Aircraft I LLC, Lennar Arizona Construction Inc., Lennar Arizona Inc., Lennar Associates Management Holding Company, Lennar Associates Management LLC, Lennar Avenue One LLC, Lennar Berkeley LLC, Lennar Bevard LLC, Lennar Bridges LLC, Lennar Buffington Colorado Crossing L.P., Lennar Buffington Zachary Scott L.P., Lennar Carolinas LLC, Lennar Central Park LLC, Lennar Central Region Sweep Inc., Lennar Chicago Inc., Lennar Cobra LLC, Lennar Colgate Urban Renewal Development LLC, Lennar Colorado LLC, Lennar Colorado Minerals LLC, Lennar Commercial LLC, Lennar Communities Development Inc., Lennar Communities Inc., Lennar Communities Nevada LLC, Lennar Communities of Chicago L.L.C., Lennar Concord LLC, Lennar Construction Inc., Lennar Cory Road LLC, Lennar Courts LLC, Lennar Developers Inc., Lennar Ewing LLC, Lennar Financial Services LLC, Lennar Flamingo LLC, Lennar Fresno Inc., Lennar Gardens LLC, Lennar Georgia Inc., Lennar Greer Ranch Venture LLC, Lennar Heritage Fields LLC, Lennar Hingham Holdings LLC, Lennar Hingham JV LLC, Lennar Homes Holding LLC, Lennar Homes LLC, Lennar Homes NJ LLC, Lennar Homes of Arizona Inc., Lennar Homes of California Inc., Lennar Homes of Indiana Inc., Lennar Homes of Texas Land and Construction Ltd., Lennar Homes of Texas Sales and Marketing Ltd., Lennar Homes of Utah Inc., Lennar International Holding LLC, Lennar International LLC, Lennar Lakeside Investor LLC, Lennar Layton LLC, Lennar Living LLC, Lennar Lytle LLC, Lennar MF Holdings LLC, Lennar MPA LLC, Lennar MPA WIP LLC, Lennar Mare Island LLC, Lennar Marina A Funding LLC, Lennar Massachusetts Properties Inc., Lennar Middletown LLC, Lennar Monmouth Redevelopers LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP Subsidiary LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture GP Victory Block G Mezz LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II GP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II GP Subsidiary LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II LP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture II Manager LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture LP LLC, Lennar Multifamily BTC Venture Manager LLC, Lennar Multifamily Builders LLC, Lennar Multifamily Communities LLC, Lennar Multifamily Venture DC LP, Lennar New Jersey Holdings LLC, Lennar New Jersey Properties Inc., Lennar New York LLC, Lennar Northeast Properties LLC, Lennar Northwest Inc., Lennar OHB LLC, Lennar PI Acquisition LLC, Lennar PI Property Acquisition LLC, Lennar PIS Management Company LLC, Lennar Pacific Inc., Lennar Pacific Properties Inc., Lennar Pacific Properties Management Inc., Lennar Plumsted Urban Renewal LLC, Lennar Point LLC, Lennar QR Build to Core GP LLC, Lennar QR Build to Core LP LLC, Lennar Realty Inc., Lennar Reno LLC, Lennar Riverwalk LLC, Lennar Sacramento Inc., Lennar Sales Corp., Lennar Sierra Sunrise LLC, Lennar Spencer's Crossing LLC, Lennar Sun Ridge LLC, Lennar Texas Holding LLC, Lennar Ventures LLC, Lennar West Valley LLC, Lennar Winncrest LLC, Lennar at Franklin LLC, Lennar at Jackson LLC, Lennar at Marlboro 79 LLC, Lennar at Monroe LLC, Lennar.com Inc., Longleaf Acquisition LLC, Lori Gardens Associates II LLC, Lori Gardens Associates III LLC, Lori Gardens Associates L.L.C., Lorton Station LLC, Lyons Lennar Farms LLC, Madrona Ridge L.L.C., Madrona Village L.L.C., Madrona Village Mews L.L.C., Majestic Woods LLC, Maple and Broadway Holdings LLC, Menifee Development LLC, Mid-County Utilities Inc., Miralago West Lennar LLC, Mission Viejo 12S Venture LP, Mission Viejo Holdings Inc., Motomic Diagnostics LLC, Multibank 2009-1 CML-ADC Venture LLC, Multibank 2009-1 RES-ADC Venture LLC, NC Properties I LLC, NC Properties II LLC, North American Asset Development LLC, Northbridge L.L.C., OHC/Ascot Belle Meade LLC, One SR L.P., PD-Len Boca Raton LLC, PG Properties Holding LLC, POMAC LLC, PT Metro LLC, Pace Drive Holdings LLC, Palm Gardens At Doral Clubhouse LLC, Palm Gardens at Doral LLC, Palm Springs Classic LLC, Palm Vista Preserve LLC, Patuxent Infrastructure Inc., Pioneer Meadows Development LLC, Pioneer Meadows Investments LLC, Plaza Condominium Ventures LLC, Portside Marina Developers L.L.C., Portside SM Associates L.L.C., Portside SM Holdings L.L.C., Portside Shipyard Developers L.L.C., Prestonfield L.L.C., Quail Roost Lennar LLC, RCCF GP II LLC, RCCF GP III LLC, RCCF GP IV LLC, RCCF GP LLC, RES-FL EIGHT LLC, RES-FL SEVEN LLC, RES-FL VISION ONE LLC, RES-FL VISION TWO LLC, RES-GA CASCADE LLC, RES-GA DIAMOND MEADOWS LLC, RES-GA KAP LLC, RES-GA SOUTHERN PLANTATION LLC, RES-GA THIRTEEN LLC, RES-GA TWELVE LLC, RES-GA WEST LLC, RES-IL ONE LLC, RES-NC ONE LLC, RES-PA LSJ LLC, RES-PA POM LLC, RES-TX BOULEVARD LLC, RH Insurance Company Inc., RH MOA BBCMS 2017-C1 LLC, RH MOA CF 2017-C8 LLC, RH MOA LLC, RH MOA U 2017-C4 LLC, RH MOA U 2017-C6 LLC, RIAL 2014-LT5 CLASS B LLC, RIAL 2014-LT5 LLC, RL BB FINANCIAL LLC, RL BB INACTIVE LLC, RL BB-AL LLC, RL BB-FL ALHI LLC, RL BB-GA LLC, RL BB-GA RMH LLC, RL BB-IL LLC, RL BB-IN AA LLC, RL BB-IN KRE LLC, RL BB-IN KRE OP LLC, RL BB-IN KRE RE LLC, RL BB-MS LLC, RL BB-NC LLC, RL BB-OH LLC, RL BB-SC BROOKSA LLC, RL BB-SC CLR II LLC, RL BB-SC CLR III LLC, RL BB-SC CLR IV LLC, RL BB-SC CLR LLC, RL BB-SC CRRC LLC, RL BB-SC RACEDAY LLC, RL BB-TN BRISTOL LLC, RL BB-TN LLC, RL BB-TN RACEDAY TOWER LLC, RL BB-TX LLC, RL BB-WV LLC, RL CMBS Holdings LLC, RL CML 2009-1 Investments LLC, RL REGI ARKANSAS LLC, RL REGI Alabama LLC, RL REGI FINANCIAL LLC, RL REGI Florida LLC, RL REGI GEORGIA LLC, RL REGI INACTIVE LLC, RL REGI KANSAS LLC, RL REGI MISSISSIPPI LLC, RL REGI MISSOURI LLC, RL REGI NORTH CAROLINA LLC, RL REGI SOUTH CAROLINA LLC, RL REGI TENNESSEE LLC, RL REGI VIRGINIA LLC, RL REGI-AL HP LLC, RL REGI-AL VRC LLC, RL REGI-FL CRC LLC, RL REGI-FL ESH LLC, RL REGI-FL FT. PIERCE LLC, RL REGI-FL GDL LLC, RL REGI-FL ITALIA LLC, RL REGI-FL MRED LLC, RL REGI-FL RDI LLC, RL REGI-FL SARASOTA LLC, RL REGI-FL TPL LLC, RL REGI-FL VARC LLC, RL REGI-GA DRAD LLC, RL REGI-GA HAY DB LLC, RL REGI-GA MHU LLC, RL REGI-GA MPD LLC, RL REGI-GA RLR LLC, RL REGI-MO GMB LLC, RL REGI-MO MOSCOW MILLS LLC, RL REGI-MS Double H LLC, RL REGI-MS OCEAN SPRINGS LLC, RL REGI-NC CIL LLC, RL REGI-NC LITTLE WING LLC, RL REGI-NC MLD LLC, RL REGI-NC Mland LLC, RL REGI-NC RALEIGH LLC, RL REGI-NC SUGARM LLC, RL REGI-NM LLC, RL REGI-SC CTL LLC, RL REGI-SC LAKE E LLC, RL REGI-SC TDG LLC, RL REGI-SC TIG LLC, RL REGI-TN OAK LLC, RL REGI-TN SEVIERVILLE LLC, RL RES 2009-1 Investments LLC, RMF Alliance LLC, RMF Commercial LLC, RMF PR New York LLC, RMF Partner LLC, RMF SUB 1 LLC, RMF SUB 2 LLC, RMF SUB 3 LLC, RMF SUB 4 LLC, RMF SUB 5 LLC, RMV LLC, Raintree Village II L.L.C., Raintree Village L.L.C., Ral-Len BM LLC, Ral-Len LLC, Rannel Capital WeWork Series D LLC, Rannel Holdings LLC, Rannel Interests LLC, Rannel Investments LLC, Rannel Mortgage Investments LLC, Rannel Proprietary Investments LLC, Renaissance Joint Venture, Reserve @ Pleasant Grove II LLC, Reserve @ Pleasant Grove LLC, Reserve at River Park LLC, Reserve at South Harrison LLC, Rialto Commercial Mortgage Securities LLC, Rialto Credit Partnership GP LLC, Rialto Mezz Partners GP LLC, Rialto Mortgage Finance LLC, Rialto Partners GP II LLC, Rialto Partners GP III - Debt LLC, Rialto Partners GP III - Property LLC, Rialto Partners GP LLC, Rialto RSSF GP LLC, Riverwalk at Lago Mar LLC, Rocking Horse Minerals LLC, Rutenberg Homes Inc. (Florida), Rutenberg Homes of Texas Inc., Rye Hill Company LLC, Ryland Homes Nevada Holdings LLC, Ryland Homes Nevada LLC, Ryland Homes of California Inc., S. Florida Construction II LLC, S. Florida Construction III LLC, S. Florida Construction LLC, SC 521 Indian Land Reserve LLC, SC 521 Indian Land Reserve South LLC, SPIC CPCO Inc., SPIC CPDB Inc., SPIC CPRB Inc., SPIC Del Sur LLC, SPIC Dublin LLC, SPIC Mesa LLC, SPIC NC Fremont LLC, SPIC Otay LLC, SPIC Springs LLC, San Felipe Indemnity Co. Ltd., San Lucia LLC, San Simeon Lennar LLC, Schulz Ranch Developers LLC, Seminole/70th LLC, Siena at Old Orchard L.L.C., Sierra Vista Communities LLC, Silver Springs Lennar LLC, South Development LLC, Southbank Holding LLC, Spanish Springs Development LLC, St. Charles Active Adult Community LLC, St. Charles Community LLC, Standard Pacific 1 Inc., Standard Pacific Investment Corp., Standard Pacific of Colorado Inc., Standard Pacific of Florida, Standard Pacific of Florida GP Inc., Standard Pacific of Las Vegas Inc., Standard Pacific of Orange County Inc., Standard Pacific of Tampa GP, Standard Pacific of Tampa GP Inc., Standard Pacific of Tonner Hills LLC, Standard Pacific of Walnut Hills Inc., Standard Pacific of the Carolinas LLC, Stoney Holdings LLC, Storey Lake Club LLC, Storey Park Club LLC, Strategic Holdings Inc., Strategic Technologies LLC, Summerfield Venture L.L.C., SunStreet Energy Group LLC, SunStreet Manager LLC, TCO QVI LLC, TICD Hold Co. LLC, TIH Hold Co. LLC, Talega Associates LLC, Temecula Valley LLC, Terra Division LLC, Terra/Winding Creek LLC, The Baywinds Land Trust, The Bridges Club at Rancho Santa Fe Inc., The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe Sales Company Inc., The LNC Northeast Group Inc., The Oasis Club at LEN-CG South LLC, The Preserve at Coconut Creek LLC, The Vistas Club at LEN-CG South LLC, Titlezoom Company, Treasure Island Holdings LLC, Treasure Island Member LLC, Treviso Holding LLC, Two Lakes Lennar LLC, U.S. Home Corporation, U.S. Home Realty Inc., U.S. Home of Arizona Construction Co., U.S. Insurors Inc., U.S.H. Realty Inc., UAMC Holding Company LLC, UB 2018C14 MOA LLC, USH - Flag LLC, USH Equity Corporation, USH LEE LLC, USH Leasing II LLC, USH Leasing LLC, UST Lennar HW Scala SF Joint Venture, VII Crown Farm Investor LLC, Venetian Lennar LLC, Vineyard Land LLC, Vineyard Point 2009 LLC, Vista Palms Clubhouse LLC, WCI Communities, WCI Communities Inc., WCI Communities LLC, WCI Towers Northeast USA Inc., WCI Westshore LLC, WCP LLC, WIP Lennar OHB LLC, Waterview at Hanover LLC, West Lake Village LLC, West Seattle Project X LLC, West Van Buren L.L.C., Westchase Inc., Westchase Ltd., Westfield Homes USA Inc., White Course Lennar LLC, Wild Plum JV LLC, Willowbrook Investors LLC, Winncrest Natomas LLC, Woodbridge Multifamily Developer I LLC, Wright Farm L.L.C., and YLRichards4Acres 2015 LLC. SRC Energy Inc., an oil and natural gas company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids primarily in the Denver-Julesburg Basin of Colorado. As of December 31, 2018, it had net proved oil and natural gas reserves of 88 million barrels of oil and condensate, 771.9 billion cubic feet of natural gas, and 89.1 million barrels of natural gas liquids; and operated 985 net producing wells, as well as had 95,200 gross and 86,200 net acres under lease in the Wattenberg Field. The company was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Denver, Colorado. Read More Medtronic Plc is a medical technology company, which engages in the development, manufacture, distribution, and sale of device-based medical therapies and services. It operates through the following segments: Cardiac and Vascular Group; Minimally Invasive Technologies Group; Restorative Therapies Group; and Diabetes Group. The Cardiac and Vascular Group segment consists of products for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cardiac rhythm disorders and cardiovascular disease. The Minimally Invasive Technologies Group segment focuses on respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, renal system, lungs, pelvic region, kidneys, and obesity diseases. The Restorative Therapies Group segment comprises of neurostimulation therapies and drug delivery systems for the treatment of chronic pain, as well as areas of the spine and brain, along with pelvic health and conditions of the ear, nose, and throat. The Diabetes Group segment offers insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitoring systems, and insulin pump consumables. The company was founded in 1949 and is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Molina Healthcare: Aetna & Humana - Medicare Advantage, Affinity Health Plan, AmericanWork Inc., Better Health Network, Camelot Care Centers Inc, Children's Behavioral Health Inc., Choices Group Inc., College Community Services, Dockside Services Inc, Family Preservation Services Inc., Family Preservation Services of Florida Inc., Family Preservation Services of North Carolina Inc., Family Preservation Services of Washington D.C. Inc., Family Preservation Services of West Virginia Inc., Florida NetPASS LLC, Hclb Inc., Magellan Complete Care, Maple Star Nevada Inc., Maple Star Oregon Inc., Mercy CarePlus, Molina Clinical Services LLC, Molina Healthcare Data Center Inc., Molina Healthcare of Arizona Inc., Molina Healthcare of California, Molina Healthcare of Florida Inc., Molina Healthcare of Georgia Inc., Molina Healthcare of Illinois Inc., Molina Healthcare of Iowa Inc., Molina Healthcare of Louisiana Inc., Molina Healthcare of Maryland Inc., Molina Healthcare of Michigan Inc., Molina Healthcare of Mississippi Inc., Molina Healthcare of Nevada Inc., Molina Healthcare of New Mexico Inc., Molina Healthcare of New York Inc., Molina Healthcare of North Carolina Inc., Molina Healthcare of Ohio Inc., Molina Healthcare of Oklahoma Inc., Molina Healthcare of Pennsylvania Inc., Molina Healthcare of Puerto Rico Inc., Molina Healthcare of South Carolina LLC, Molina Healthcare of Texas Inc., Molina Healthcare of Texas Insurance Company, Molina Healthcare of Utah Inc., Molina Healthcare of Virginia Inc., Molina Healthcare of Washington Inc., Molina Healthcare of Wisconsin Inc., Molina Holdings Corporation, Molina Hospital Management LLC, Molina Information Systems LLC dba Molina Medicaid Solutions, Molina Medical Management Inc., Molina Pathways LLC, Molina Pathways of Texas Inc., Molina Youth Academy, NextLevel Health Illinois, Pathways Community Corrections Inc., Pathways Community Services LLC, Pathways Community Support of Texas Inc., Pathways Health and Community Support LLC, Pathways Human Services LLC., Pathways of Arizona Inc., Pathways of Delaware Inc., Pathways of Idaho LLC, Pathways of Maine Inc., Pathways of Massachusetts LLC, Pathways of Oklahoma Inc., Pathways of Washington Inc., Providence Community Services, Providence Human Services, Raystown Developmental Services Inc., The Game of Work LLC, The RedCo Group Inc., Total Care Medicaid plan, Transitional Family Services Inc., Unisys -Health Information Management, and YourCare Health Plan. 3 Wall Street analysts have issued "buy," "hold," and "sell" ratings for Pilbara Minerals in the last twelve months. There are currently 1 sell rating, 1 hold rating and 1 buy rating for the stock. The consensus among Wall Street analysts is that investors should "hold" Pilbara Minerals stock. A hold rating indicates that analysts believe investors should maintain any existing positions they have in PILBF, but not buy additional shares or sell existing shares. View analyst ratings for Pilbara Minerals or view top-rated stocks. The following companies are subsidiares of Travelers Companies: 10762962 Canada Inc., 350 Market Street LLC, 8527512 Canada Inc., Aetna Life and Casualty Co, American Equity Insurance Company, American Equity Specialty Insurance Company, Aprilgrange Limited, Arch Street North LLC, Auto Hartford Investments LLC, Bayhill Restaurant II Associates, Camperdown Corporation, Constitution State Services LLC, Discover Property & Casualty Insurance Company, Discover Specialty Insurance Company, F&G UK Underwriters Limited, Farmington Casualty Company, Fidelity and Guaranty Insurance Company, Fidelity and Guaranty Insurance Underwriters Inc., First Floridian Auto and Home Insurance Company, Gulf Underwriters Insurance Company, IHP Capital Partners Fund VIII L.P., Northbrook Holdings Inc., Northfield Insurance Company, Northland Casualty Company, Northland Insurance Company, Phoenix UK Investments LLC, SPC Insurance Agency Inc., Select Insurance Company, Simply Business Holdings Inc., Simply Business Inc., St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Company, St. Paul Guardian Insurance Company, St. Paul Mercury Insurance Company, St. Paul Protective Insurance Company, St. Paul Surplus Lines Insurance Company, Standard Fire Properties LLC, Standard Fire UK Investments LLC, TCI Global Services Inc., TPC Investments Inc., TPC U.K. Investments LLC, The Automobile Insurance Company of Hartford Connecticut, The Charter Oak Fire Insurance Company, The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company, The Family Business Institute LLC, The Phoenix Insurance Company, The St. Paul Companies Inc., The Standard Fire Insurance Company, The Travelers Casualty Company, The Travelers Home and Marine Insurance Company, The Travelers Indemnity Company, The Travelers Indemnity Company of America, The Travelers Indemnity Company of Connecticut, The Travelers Lloyds Insurance Company, TravCo Insurance Company, Travelers (Bermuda) Limited, Travelers Brazil Acquisition LLC, Travelers Brazil Holding LLC, Travelers Casualty Company of Connecticut, Travelers Casualty Insurance Company of America, Travelers Casualty UK Investments LLC, Travelers Casualty and Surety Company, Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of America, Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of Europe Limited, Travelers Commercial Casualty Company, Travelers Commercial Insurance Company, Travelers Constitution State Insurance Company, Travelers Distribution Alliance Inc., Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company, Travelers Global Inc., Travelers Indemnity U.K. Investments LLC, Travelers Insurance Company Limited, Travelers Insurance Company of Canada, Travelers Insurance Designated Activity Company, Travelers Insurance Group Holdings Inc., Travelers Lloyds of Texas Insurance Company, Travelers London Limited, Travelers MGA Inc., Travelers Management Limited, Travelers Marine LLC, Travelers Participacoes em Seguros Brasil S.A., Travelers Personal Insurance Company, Travelers Personal Security Insurance Company, Travelers Property Casualty Company of America, Travelers Property Casualty Corp., Travelers Property Casualty Insurance Company, Travelers Seguros Brasil S.A., Travelers Syndicate Management Limited, Travelers Texas MGA Inc., Travelers Underwriting Agency Limited, Ultramar Travel Management, United States Fidelity and Guaranty Company, Xbridge Limited, Zensurance Brokers Inc., and Zensurance Inc.. Federated Investors, Inc. is a publicly owned asset management holding company. Through its subsidiaries, the firm provides its services to individuals, including high net worth individuals, banking or thrift institutions, investment companies, pension and profit sharing plans, pooled investment vehicles, charitable organizations, state or municipal government entities, and registered investment advisors. Through its subsidiaries, it manages separate client-focused equity, fixed income, balanced and money market mutual funds along with separate client-focused equity, fixed income, money market, and balanced portfolios. Through its subsidiaries, the firm invests in the public equity and fixed income markets across the globe. It invests in growth and value stocks of small-cap, mid-cap, and large-cap companies. The firm makes its fixed income investments in ultra-short, short-term, and intermediate-term mortgage-backed, U.S. Government, U.S. corporate, high yield, and municipal securities. It employs both fundamental and quantitative analysis to make its equity investments. Federated Investors, Inc. was founded in 1955 and is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with additional offices in New York City and London, United Kingdom. Read More Telstra Corporation Limited provides telecommunications and information services to businesses, governments, and individuals in Australia and internationally. It operates in four segments: Telstra Consumer and Small Business, Telstra Enterprise, Networks and IT, and Telstra InfraCo. The company offers telecommunication products, services, and solutions across mobiles, fixed and mobile broadband, telephony and Pay TV/IPTV, and digital content; and online self-service capabilities, as well as operates inbound and outbound call centers, owned and licensed Telstra shops, and the Telstra dealership network. It also provides sales and contract management; and product management services for data and Internet protocol networks, mobility services, and network applications and services products, such as managed network, unified communications, cloud, industry solutions, and integrated services and monitoring. In addition, the company engages in the development of industry vertical solutions; planning, design, engineering architecture, and construction of Telstra networks, technology, and information technology solutions; and delivering network technologies. Further, it provides telecommunication products and services through its networks and related support systems to other carriers, carriage service providers, and Internet service providers; access to fixed network infrastructure assets; disconnection services; and network services under the Infrastructure Services Agreement and commercial contracts, as well as holds fixed network infrastructure, including data centers, non-mobiles related domestic fiber, copper, HFC cable, international subsea cables, exchanges, poles, ducts, and pipes. The company was formerly known as Australian and Overseas Telecommunications Corporation Limited and changed its name to Telstra Corporation Limited in April 1993. Telstra Corporation Limited was founded in 1901 and is based in Melbourne, Australia. Read More Mettler-Toledo International, Inc. is a supplier of precision instruments and services. The firm manufactures weighing instruments for use in laboratory, industrial, packaging, logistics, and food retailing applications. It also manufactures several related analytical instruments and provides automated chemistry solutions used in drug and chemical compound discovery and development; and also, metal detection and other end-of-line inspection systems used in production and packaging and provides solutions for use in certain process analytics applications. Its operations are conducted by the following segments: U. S. Operations, Swiss Operations, Western European Operations, Chinese Operations and Other. The U.S. Operations segment represents certain of the company's marketing and producing organizations located in the United States. The Swiss Operations segment includes marketing and producing organizations located in Switzerland, as well as extensive R&D operations that are responsible for the development, production, and marketing of precision instruments, including weighing, analytical, and measurement technologies for use in a variety of industrial and laboratory applications. Th Read More R&B legend James Browns estate has been sold for an estimated $90 million, enabling him to fulfill his dying wish to fund scholarships for children in need for perpetuity. The scholarship trust will help kids in South Carolina, where Brown was born, and Georgia, where he grew up, estate executor Russell L. Bauknight told the New York Times. Primary Wave, which manages estates and song ... [Its] really looking at who are our students, what do they need, what can we do to meet them where they are and what they need, he said. This year happens to be [college classes]. If its successful and our students next year need the same thing , we would probably continue to go down that route. If the students needs change, well adapt to what the student needs look and feel like. As commonwealths attorney, Hardin is independent of the Board of Supervisors. Greene County officials, meanwhile, have indicated that they do not believe a theft occurred. In an email obtained by the Greene County Record through an open records request, Greene County Attorney Thomas Lacheney chastised Hardin for not consulting the county prior to submitting the motion. Lacheney noted the county, as owners of the parcel, would be the victim in this case and noted the county does not feel something of value has been taken from us. Instead, Lacheney suggested in his email that growth on the property was worthless weeds. Bill Martin, chairman of the Board of Supervisors, said he was aware of the charges and believes Cox should continue serving on the board until the judicial process has run its course. Mr. Cox is presumed to be innocent and he is legally entitled to the benefits of that presumption, Martin said. Therefore, there is no reason for his service as Greene Countys Monroe District Supervisor to be interrupted or otherwise disturbed by the pendency of such matter. Both Cox and Eppard are expected to appear in Greene County Circuit Court at 8:45 a.m. June 11. 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. February saw the fewest encounters since the data was first presented. March was the lowest month for arrests and, in April, officers stopped the fewest people of any month. Opponents of stop-and-frisks have said they disproportionately affect minorities and, despite the overall decline recently, data shows African Americans are still much more likely to be stopped by an officer in the city. The numbers Between February and April, 129 people were stopped in 104 encounters with police, resulting in 45 arrests. Of the 129 people stopped, 75 were black and 53 were white. Black people accounted for 26 of the arrests compared with 19 white people. Nearly two-thirds of the 129 people stopped were released without charges. Both black and white people had a roughly equal chance of being released after being stopped. African Americans, however, are much more likely to be stopped in the first place given that they account for about 17% of the city population. They need to be loved and cared for, and they need a place to sleep and they need food and they need to have those basic needs taken care of so they can come to school ready to learn, school counselor Don Landis says of his students. LaPisto Kirtley said that at this point, she doesnt support expanding the development area. Albemarles charm is the rural areas, she said. If you eliminate that, you lose Albemarle. I think its incumbent upon the politicians, the people in charge, to protect and preserve the rural areas, not only for our charm but also for greenhouse gas emissions. Both candidates said they want to see the county funds that go to the city as part of a revenue-sharing agreement go toward something regionally beneficial transportation and also think it would be unlikely that they could eliminate the agreement. The revenue-sharing agreement was made with the phrase in perpetuity, LaPisto Kirtley said. So having said that, your choices are limited, unfortunately. When asked about how the candidates would balance the needs and wants in the development area with rural-area residents concerns, Smith said he would like to examine the services that are provided to rural areas, such as fire and EMS, and that the county can make them better. MADISON For one night at Firnew Farm in Madison County, no one was staying away from poisonous plants. Instead, community members gathered for a program featuring artwork of poisonous plants in Virginia and a related educational presentation. The idea for the partnership first came to life about a year ago when Trish Crowe, founder of the Firnew Farm Artists Circle, attended a presentation by Alfred Goossens, of the Old Rag Master Naturalists, at the Madison County Library. Goossens presentation, titled The Socrates Project Poisonous Plants in Virginia, featured photographs of various plants that Crowe said she and her granddaughter were inspired by. My granddaughter took photographs of the master naturalists photographs, Crowe said. They were interesting, but I thought the artists could do something so much more fun with them that would inspire a 7-year-old even more. It was really her response to it and looking at those images that made me want to go back to our artists and pose it as a project. Crowe brought the idea to Goossens, who said he was immediately on board for the horticulture-art collaboration. WASHINGTON Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-7th, had been in Congress for six days when she marched to the microphone in a meeting of fellow Democrats and informed the leadership that demonizing the border wall wasnt the way to keep control of the House. Listen, in my district I am hearing, Build a wall! In my district, we are losing the messaging that Democrats can be strong on borders, said the 39-year-old from the Richmond suburbs, according to the congresswoman and others who were there. It was a critical moment for Spanberger, one of dozens of new Democratic lawmakers from red districts who helped their party seize control of the House last year. These members will have to win reelection if the party is to hold the chamber in 2020. They face a double challenge: Not only do they have to strike a balance between loyalty to the Democratic Party and fidelity to their more conservative districts, but they also have to fight the leftward tug of progressives who want universal health care, impeachment of President Donald Trump and a Green New Deal. So the question for impeachophiles is "how many of those voters can be moved?" The die-hard Trump supporters probably can't be, but the other groups are potentially at least persuadable. That brings us to the question of how to persuade them. And to Justin Amash, the Michigan representative who just broke ranks with his party by calling for Trump's impeachment. A sophisticated theory of how the Democrats might succeed in impeaching Trump goes something like this: Aggressively investigate the president, keeping news of his Russian perfidy in the headlines day after day. As his support erodes, welcome Republican defectors who start to signal that, yes, it's OK for a party loyalist to support impeachment. Recruit more and more Republican mavericks to Team Impeachment until the Republicans who never liked Trump much in the first place decide that he's destined to lose in 2020 and tarnishing the party in the meantime. When you have a critical mass of defectors in the House, pull the trigger and impeach, trusting the Republican senators to go along out of concern for their party's reputation and for their own electoral prospects. Given how much Airbnb supply is coming online each year, that can be a big hit to hotels. In New York City in 2016, it could have meant a loss of as much as $365 million depending on the price of the rooms that went unrented because of Airbnb. The news is brighter for consumers. The arrival of Airbnb has meant more choices including rooms less expensive than in a hotel and the resulting competition seems to have brought down room prices in hotels. The authors say that expanding the supply of rooms also helps cities accommodate more people during peak visiting seasons, or during big events such as a Super Bowl. Beneficiaries of Airbnb also include restaurants and shops where more visitors mean more customers. Mr. Dogru, one of the co-authors, notes that some people like staying in a hotel whose name and brand they trust, but Airbnb appeals to people seeking unique experiences that reflect the place they're visiting. As with any disruptive new competitor, companies such as Airbnb bring out the regulators. And here the authors have a warning. "The application of excessive legislation driven by the interests of incumbent industries," they note, "has the potential to stifle innovation that ultimately benefits the consumer" and harms economic growth. Travel & Outdoors The Best Places for North Americans to Retire in Mexico Finding your perfect spot, the place that you could live, requires that you spend some time there, summer and winter. You need to see if you can adjust to the pace, the daily life challenges, the Mexican way. Share More Americans have retired abroad in Mexico than any other country. The low cost of living, sunshine, accessibility, established expat communities and diversity of lifestyle options draw many retirees south of the border. From relaxing beach towns to cosmopolitan cities, the challenge is deciding where to retire in Mexico. Consider these potential retirement spots in Mexico where you can seek adventure overseas, but don't have to give up all the comforts of home. Playa del Carmen Playa del Carmen is a little beach town an hour south of Cancun on Mexico's Riviera Maya. Once a sleepy fishing village, the port was inadvertently put on the map by Jacques Cousteau in 1954 when he filmed an underwater documentary on the Great Maya Reef just offshore. Today Playa is home to more than 10,000 foreigners, including young couples, families with small children and retired folks. At the center of it all is La Quinta Avenida, the pedestrian street that runs parallel to the beach. All along 5th Avenue, music rolls out of the open storefronts, including Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Buffett, salsa and Latin ballads. Playa del Carmen is a little beach town an hour south of Cancun on Mexico's Riviera Maya. Once a sleepy fishing village, the port was inadvertently put on the map by Jacques Cousteau in 1954 when he filmed an underwater documentary on the Great Maya Reef just offshore. Today Playa is home to more than 10,000 foreigners, including young couples, families with small children and retired folks. At the center of it all is La Quinta Avenida, the pedestrian street that runs parallel to the beach. All along 5th Avenue, music rolls out of the open storefronts, including Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Buffett, salsa and Latin ballads. Mazatlan Mazatlan is one of the few places in the world where you can walk for miles on an uncrowded beach within the city limits. Mazatlan has beautiful beaches and a walkable colonial center that manages to be both a popular expat choice and an authentic Mexican resort town. Located midway along Mexico's Pacific coast, Mazatlan's historic center has undergone an impressive face lift. Mazatlan lies about 720 miles south of the Arizona border, making it a 13-hour drive down highway 15D. What a luxury to be able to throw everything you need in the car and drive to your new life overseas. Mazatlan is one of the few places in the world where you can walk for miles on an uncrowded beach within the city limits. Mazatlan has beautiful beaches and a walkable colonial center that manages to be both a popular expat choice and an authentic Mexican resort town. Located midway along Mexico's Pacific coast, Mazatlan's historic center has undergone an impressive face lift. Mazatlan lies about 720 miles south of the Arizona border, making it a 13-hour drive down highway 15D. What a luxury to be able to throw everything you need in the car and drive to your new life overseas. Ajijic, Lake Chapala The Mexican government estimates that nearly 20,000 expats reside full time in the state of Jalisco. The area around Lake Chapala is home to an organized and developed expat retiree community. The Lake Chapala Society reports about 4,000 American and Canadian residents. Moving here, you could set up a lifestyle that isn't dramatically different from the life you left behind in the U.S. You don't have to worry about learning the local language if you don't want to, because this is an entire community of non-locals. Retiring to Ajijic, you could make a comfortable life for yourself in a place that's beautiful, safe, affordable and also exotic. Over the past four decades, Ajijic has attracted such a volume of foreign retirees that it's become very friendly to foreign residents. The Mexican government estimates that nearly 20,000 expats reside full time in the state of Jalisco. The area around Lake Chapala is home to an organized and developed expat retiree community. The Lake Chapala Society reports about 4,000 American and Canadian residents. Moving here, you could set up a lifestyle that isn't dramatically different from the life you left behind in the U.S. You don't have to worry about learning the local language if you don't want to, because this is an entire community of non-locals. Retiring to Ajijic, you could make a comfortable life for yourself in a place that's beautiful, safe, affordable and also exotic. Over the past four decades, Ajijic has attracted such a volume of foreign retirees that it's become very friendly to foreign residents. Puerto Vallarta Until the 1950s, Puerto Vallarta was a small fishing village along a spectacular bay on the Pacific that was modestly popular among Mexicans as a beach resort. Then, in 1963, John Huston filmed "The Night of the Iguana" in Mismaloya, a seaside village just south of Puerto Vallarta. The film's star, Richard Burton, was involved with actress Elizabeth Taylor at the time, and the paparazzi tracked them both. Suddenly, Puerto Vallarta was in the American newspapers. Around the same time, the Mexican government began to invest heavily in infrastructure in the area, including highways, roads and public utilities, which made Puerto Vallarta a more accessible and attractive destination. Puerto Vallarta is now one of the most sophisticated resorts in Mexico. You will find cosmopolitan cultural activities including plays, films, jazz and classical concerts, gourmet restaurants and gallery openings. Until the 1950s, Puerto Vallarta was a small fishing village along a spectacular bay on the Pacific that was modestly popular among Mexicans as a beach resort. Then, in 1963, John Huston filmed "The Night of the Iguana" in Mismaloya, a seaside village just south of Puerto Vallarta. The film's star, Richard Burton, was involved with actress Elizabeth Taylor at the time, and the paparazzi tracked them both. Suddenly, Puerto Vallarta was in the American newspapers. Around the same time, the Mexican government began to invest heavily in infrastructure in the area, including highways, roads and public utilities, which made Puerto Vallarta a more accessible and attractive destination. Puerto Vallarta is now one of the most sophisticated resorts in Mexico. You will find cosmopolitan cultural activities including plays, films, jazz and classical concerts, gourmet restaurants and gallery openings. San Miguel de Allende San Miguel de Allende is both the geographic and cultural heart of Mexico. About equidistant from Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific Ocean and Veracruz on the Gulf of Mexico, San Miguel is also just a day's drive from the Texas border. At an altitude of 6,200 feet, it's warm and dry during the day and cool at night. Founded by the Spanish nearly 500 years ago, San Miguel was an important town on the route for transporting Mexican silver. Wealthy businessmen and ranchers built beautiful Spanish-colonial homes on the cobblestone streets of this picturesque hillside town. This well-preserved Spanish-colonial city is now home to one of the biggest communities of foreign retirees in Mexico. San Miguel de Allende is both the geographic and cultural heart of Mexico. About equidistant from Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific Ocean and Veracruz on the Gulf of Mexico, San Miguel is also just a day's drive from the Texas border. At an altitude of 6,200 feet, it's warm and dry during the day and cool at night. Founded by the Spanish nearly 500 years ago, San Miguel was an important town on the route for transporting Mexican silver. Wealthy businessmen and ranchers built beautiful Spanish-colonial homes on the cobblestone streets of this picturesque hillside town. This well-preserved Spanish-colonial city is now home to one of the biggest communities of foreign retirees in Mexico. Alamos This small colonial town of fewer than 25,000 is nestled in an inland valley surrounded on all sides by mountains and wild countryside. Alamos was founded in the late 17th century after silver was discovered in the area. The huge wealth generated by the mines allowed residents to build dozens of colonial mansions and hundreds of colonial homes throughout the downtown. The city is walkable and safe, and there are many opportunities for volunteering. The expat community is cohesive, active, welcoming and artistic. Newcomers stay in touch with each other, hang out together and support one another when they need it. This small colonial town of fewer than 25,000 is nestled in an inland valley surrounded on all sides by mountains and wild countryside. Alamos was founded in the late 17th century after silver was discovered in the area. The huge wealth generated by the mines allowed residents to build dozens of colonial mansions and hundreds of colonial homes throughout the downtown. The city is walkable and safe, and there are many opportunities for volunteering. The expat community is cohesive, active, welcoming and artistic. Newcomers stay in touch with each other, hang out together and support one another when they need it. Morelia Built in the 16th century, Morelia was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991. When you've seen it, you'll wonder what took them so long. Adding to its architectural charm, Morelia's beautiful Spanish Renaissance buildings are all colored the region's trademark warm pink, thanks to the locally quarried cantera stone. This is a center of music and home to the oldest music conservatory in the Americas. This picturesque town is the capital of the central Mexican state of Michoacan. Few foreign tourists visit Morelia, but Mexicans are frequent visitors. The few expats and foreign retirees who have discovered Morelia try to keep the secret to themselves. The quality of life available in this city of 600,000 is special and unique. Built in the 16th century, Morelia was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991. When you've seen it, you'll wonder what took them so long. Adding to its architectural charm, Morelia's beautiful Spanish Renaissance buildings are all colored the region's trademark warm pink, thanks to the locally quarried cantera stone. This is a center of music and home to the oldest music conservatory in the Americas. This picturesque town is the capital of the central Mexican state of Michoacan. Few foreign tourists visit Morelia, but Mexicans are frequent visitors. The few expats and foreign retirees who have discovered Morelia try to keep the secret to themselves. The quality of life available in this city of 600,000 is special and unique. Tulum Just 20 minutes south of Playa, Tulum feels a world away. This tranquil area is home to about 18,000 people. The location of important ancient sites and natural attractions, the focus in Tulum is more on preservation than development. The path of progress is rolling down this coast, just a bit more conscientiously in Tulum. Thanks to the long-standing tourism industry, English is commonly spoken. This part of Mexico is decidedly first world. The infrastructure is as good as the best of the United States. If you're not up for immersing yourself in another culture, the Riviera Maya could make for a welcoming place to retire. Just 20 minutes south of Playa, Tulum feels a world away. This tranquil area is home to about 18,000 people. The location of important ancient sites and natural attractions, the focus in Tulum is more on preservation than development. The path of progress is rolling down this coast, just a bit more conscientiously in Tulum. Thanks to the long-standing tourism industry, English is commonly spoken. This part of Mexico is decidedly first world. The infrastructure is as good as the best of the United States. If you're not up for immersing yourself in another culture, the Riviera Maya could make for a welcoming place to retire. Hualtulco Huatulco is situated on Mexico's Pacific coast at the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains. It's about an hour south of Mexico City by plane. This master-planned community has a total area of about 50,000 acres, with 90% protected for ecological conservation and the remaining 10% used for tourist and residential development. Compared with other Mexican hotspots such as Cancun and Los Cabos, Hualtulco has a more small-town feel and offers a more authentic experience. The area boasts 36 white sand beaches that span 20 miles of Mexico's Pacific coastline. Just inland from the beach areas is La Crucecita, Huatulco's main town, where you find grocery stores, pharmacies and restaurants. Hualtulco has been awarded the Green Globe certification as a sustainable tourist area. Much of Huatulco's energy is wind-driven, and hotels, restaurants & nightclubs operate on renewable energy. Huatulco is situated on Mexico's Pacific coast at the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains. It's about an hour south of Mexico City by plane. This master-planned community has a total area of about 50,000 acres, with 90% protected for ecological conservation and the remaining 10% used for tourist and residential development. Compared with other Mexican hotspots such as Cancun and Los Cabos, Hualtulco has a more small-town feel and offers a more authentic experience. The area boasts 36 white sand beaches that span 20 miles of Mexico's Pacific coastline. Just inland from the beach areas is La Crucecita, Huatulco's main town, where you find grocery stores, pharmacies and restaurants. Hualtulco has been awarded the Green Globe certification as a sustainable tourist area. Much of Huatulco's energy is wind-driven, and hotels, restaurants & nightclubs operate on renewable energy. Durango Durango is not an expat destination, but a large, sophisticated Mexican city with great weather and a high standard of living. Nestled in a valley high in Mexico's western Sierra Madre range, the city's surroundings look like what we think of as the Old West, and many Hollywood movies have been filmed in the surrounding mountains, valleys and deserts. The city boasts clean, safe streets, good infrastructure, a thriving central market and architecture reminiscent of Europe. The almost complete absence of foreigners means no tourist pricing and a low cost of living. However, you'll find almost no expat community and few English speakers. Spanish lessons should be a priority for those planning to relocate to Durango.Kathleen Peddicord began writing for U.S. News & World Report in 2010, covering the retire overseas beat. Peddicord has reported on opportunities for Americans to live, retire and do business overseas for more than 30 years and is considered the world's foremost authority on these subjects. Durango is not an expat destination, but a large, sophisticated Mexican city with great weather and a high standard of living. Nestled in a valley high in Mexico's western Sierra Madre range, the city's surroundings look like what we think of as the Old West, and many Hollywood movies have been filmed in the surrounding mountains, valleys and deserts. The city boasts clean, safe streets, good infrastructure, a thriving central market and architecture reminiscent of Europe. The almost complete absence of foreigners means no tourist pricing and a low cost of living. However, you'll find almost no expat community and few English speakers. Spanish lessons should be a priority for those planning to relocate to Durango. Site Map Print this Page Email Us Top Xem them ... Tin bai cuoi cung Khong con du lieu e load Jeff Walker is having a big year. Im getting married in September, says Jeff. Then my partner, whos also a Dal alumnus for the School of Architecture, and I will be working together. While tying the knot is a big accomplishment in itself, its one of many moments of pride this year for Jeff, who is graduating from the Faculty of Architecture and Planning with a Master of Architecture degree with Sexton Distinction. Its been such a long process for me, says Jeff. The minute that I submitted that thesis, there was just a big sigh of relief. I think that has to be my most proud moment. When it was all said and done it was very rewarding. Jeffs thesis concerns a cultural centre in Northern Canada. As soon as you start getting into cultural centres and the more civic types of architecture, Jeff explains, I think its something that kind of moves from being more for an individual and towards an entire community. Shedding preconceived ideas One of the things that Jeff says has informed his sense of community and architecture have been his travels. I think architecture in a lot of ways is very visual and kind of experiential, says Jeff. So to travel, especially in school and to go and visit a lot of these places, is something that has been extremely helpful, not only in my studies, but also moving on into the future and building my skill sets. A visitor to everywhere from Iceland to Japan, Jeff says that one of the excursions that truly redefined his views on architecture was his visit to Cuba. In my second semester of my Masters program I got the opportunity to go to Cuba and study there, Jeff explains. Cuba is so different than anywhere Ive ever been. I think that one of the biggest things that I learned, both in the studio and during my thesis, was to try and eliminate all preconceived ideas you may have of a specific place. That was a pretty big ah ha moment. There are so many other cultures and places that are very specific, and you have to respond to those needs and not the ones you think they need. From coast to coast A native of Vancouver, Jeff learned of the Dalhousie School of Architectures reputation from his mentors. I had been working in an architects office prior to starting at Dal, says Jeff. There were a few people that were mentors to me that went to Dal. It was just kind of a point in my life that I was ready for a big change and decided to go from coast to coast. A recipient of the RAIC Medal, FGS Scholarships, the Bruce and Dorothy Rossetti Scholarship, the Year 3 and 4 Portfolio Prize, and Barry Johns Scholarship for Design, Jeff says the secret to his academic success is simple: listening to his peers. Embrace the social aspect of the architectural school and really use your classmates or professors, says Jeff. Often times its the conversations you have out of class or late nights at the studio with your classmates that really help you to develop those skills. Embrace the studio culture and really get to know your classmates, because they really are a huge part of how you learn. RINL will be signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in this regard, with its administrative ministry -- Ministry of Steel -- likely by the first week of June, an official said. (Representational Image) New Delhi: State-run Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd is eyeing to produce 6.4 million tonne of liquid steel and 5.8 million tonne of saleable metal in the financial year 2019-20, a company official said. The public sector undertaking (PSU) will be signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in this regard, with its administrative ministry -- Ministry of Steel -- likely by the first week of June, the official said. "The MoU is in the final stages and is expected to be signed next week or so. The target for liquid steel and saleable steel for financial year 2019-20 would be around 6.4 million tonne (MT) and 5.8 MT, respectively," the official said. For the year 2018-19, Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (RINL) had a target to produce 6.1 MT of liquid metal but could only produce around 5.5 MT. The state-run firm produced 5 MT of saleable steel against the target of 5.5 MT. The pact will be signed between Secretary, Ministry of Steel, Binoy Kumar and RINL Chairman and Managing Director P K Rath. Every PSU on an annual basis sets targets for the fiscal and enters into a pact with the concerned administrative ministry in this regard. For the current fiscal, RINL is targeting a turnover of Rs 25,000 crore compared to Rs 20,844 crore in 2018-19, its CMD had last month said. RINL, corporate entity of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, produces special steel, including wire rod coils, rounds and billets of different grade and dimensions. Bharti Airtel Ltd is planning a share sale for its Africa unit in London as part of a push by the wireless operator to cut a debt load thats ballooned to more than $16 billion. The initial public offering by Airtel Africa Ltd would comprise new shares and the sale would seek a free float of at least 25 per cent, the company said in a filing on Tuesday. Airtel is Africas second-largest mobile operator behind Johannesburg-based MTN Group Ltd with almost 100 million subscribers across 14 countries, including Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania. Bharti Airtel, controlled by Sunil Mittal, is fighting a costly war in India with Mukesh Ambanis Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd. Airtels earnings have shrunk and debt soared since Reliance Jio stormed the market in 2016 with free calls and cheap data. The New Delhi-based company is counting on some asset sales, a rights issue and lately the Africa units London IPO to bolster its finances. The main motivation is the debt level at the parent, said John Davies, an analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence. The rights issue, talk of selling towers plus this IPO are all consequences of that. Shares of Airtel Africa could start trading on the London Stock Exchange in June in a deal that could raise about $1 billion, people familiar with the matter have said. Airtel Africa already raised $1.25 billion last year from investors, including Temasek Holdings Pte and SoftBank Group Corp, giving it an equity value of about $4.4 billion. A successful IPO will help the company kickstart a stronger growth phase in Africa, Bharti Airtel Chief Executive Officer Raghunath Mandava said on a call with reporters. The continents youthful population and potential for more high-speed 4G capacity make it a big opportunity for expansion, he said. Africa Airtel will also seek to lure investors with the potential of its mobile-money offering, which has 14.2 million customers. Wireless operators on the continent are investing heavily in mobile-payment services to meet high demand from customers where formal banking infrastructure is scarce, such as in Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana. The company will also consider a local listing in Nigeria, according to the IPO filing. That would follow in the footsteps of market-leader MTN, which listed stock in Lagos earlier this month to meet demand from regulators and local investors. Airtel is the second-biggest carrier in Nigeria, Africas most populous country, and the market makes up more than a third of overall revenue. Bharti Airtel has been struggling to add subscribers in a saturated Indian market amid a tariff war. In February, Airtel unveiled plans to raise as much as Rs 32,000 crore for a war chest to take on Jio as well as to prepare for an impending 5G airwaves auction. Of that, it raised about Rs 25,000 crore this month from a rights issue. Bloomberg Kolkata: Infinix, a premium smartphone brand from Shenzhen (China)-headquartered Transsion Holdings stable, is betting big on sub-10K smartphone segment in the online space. The overall smartphone market in the country is estimated to be 140 million units (by the end of 2018). Nearly 30 per cent- 35 per cent of this overall sales comes through online sales. And Infinix, a relatively new entrant in this segment in India, is eyeing close to 5 per cent market share in this segment by the end of the current calendar, said Anish Kapoor, CEO, Infinix India. Our focus in India, for the time being, is on the online space, more particularly in the sub-10,000 segment (Rs 5,000-Rs 10,000 price bracket). That is the most relevant sector for us. That is the sector, where we can add lots of values, by way of adding features, which the consumers are looking at. And given the fact that consumers today do not want to use a particular handset for far too long, Infinix would like to refresh its entire range every six/seven months. Our portfolio will have 2-3 products in the category at different price points and we will refresh them on a regular basis, said Kapoor, who was here in connection with the roll out of its latest device S4, promising to offer the best camera experience in its category. The wearables market in India is estimated to be 1 million units/month and is growing steadily. And that is another where Infinix is gearing up to expand its footprint, he said. Infinixs product ecosystem fits right into this preference segment, and we have always received positive response towards our products. With S4, we aim to have a breakthrough in the below 10k smartphone segment, which has great demand but experiences limited to non-existent competition till now, he said. The brand has presence in 36 countries across emerging markets of Africa, Latin America, MENA region, South and South East Asia. Besides the Chinese company operates two more brandsitel and Tecnoin India. Mphasis will use Bitfurys Exonum block-chain platform to develop new technologies in the trade finance sector. New York: Mphasis Ltd, an Indian technology firm majority-owned by Blackstone Group LP, has teamed up with blockchain startup Bitfury to create either a digital token or a platform aimed at automating financial services such as payments in international trade transactions between countries, an Mphasis executive said. Financial terms of the partnership were not disclosed. Andres Ricaurte, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Payments for Mphasis, told Reuters in a recent interview that both companies will seek to facilitate instant settlement of export and import transactions, reduce reliance on complex foreign exchange systems, and increase flexibility in liquidity management for financial institutions. While there are projects trying to digitise other areas of international trade transactions such as document management and customer due diligence, the core financial services such as cross-border settlements and financing of transactions operate on outdated and clunky infrastructure, Ricaurte said. The result is a complex gridlock that limits visibility for all parties and hinders access to liquidity for those who need it most. Those conditions have contributed to a global $1.5 trillion gap between the demand and supply of trade finance, Ricaurte said. The collaboration with Bitfury will try to address this key weakness in the sector. Bitfury, which has a valuation of about $1 billion, is one of the largest companies that develops block-chain solutions for various clients and governments. It raised $80 million recently from investors including the merchant bank founded by billionaire Mike Novogratz, a former macro hedge fund manager at Fortress Investment Group. Blockchain, which first emerged as the system powering the digital currency Bitcoin, is a shared database maintained by a network of computers connected to the internet. Blackstone owns 52.3 per cent of Mphasis. Our goal is to accelerate the disruption and transformation in the trade finance space, Ricaurte said. The exact end-goal - whether its a platform, a trade token, or a consortia is still to be figured out. He said the venture was not solely about creating a digital currency. Its about creating a digital representation of the liquidity thats trapped inside this supply chain and leveraging that representation to make trade transactions more seamless and transparent to everyone, Ricaurte said. Mphasis will use Bitfurys Exonum block-chain platform to develop new technologies in the trade finance sector. Bitfury CEO Valery Vav-ilov said in a statement the two companies will create inter-operable systems that will improve fragmented financial systems. Reuters New Delhi: Gold regained its glitter with prices surging by Rs 100 to Rs 32,870 per 10 gram in the national capital on Tuesday on fresh buying by jewellers, according to the All India Sarafa Association. Silver also gained Rs 50 to Rs 37,550 per kg on increased offtake by industrial units. Traders said sentiment turned upbeat on the back of a pick-up in buying support from local jewellers, but said a weak trend overseas capped the gains. Globally, spot gold was trading lower at USD 1,284.50 an ounce, while silver was down at USD 14.57 an ounce in New York. In the national capital, gold of 99.9 per cent and 99.5 per cent purity rose Rs 100 each to Rs 32,870 and Rs 32,700 per 10 gram, respectively. Sovereign gold, however, held steady at Rs 26,500 per eight gram. On Monday, gold had declined Rs 40 to Rs 32,770 per 10 gram. Silver ready on Tuesday advanced by Rs 50 at Rs 37,550 per kg, while weekly-based delivery declined Rs 72 to Rs 36,426 per kg. On the other hand, silver coins held flat at Rs 79,000 for buying and Rs 80,000 for selling of 100 pieces. Mumbai: With back-to-back mega releases, Katrina Kaif is one of the busiest actors in Bollywood right now. In her latest film 'Bharat', the 35-year-old actress will be seen in a performance-oriented role. Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, Bharat is an official remake of Korean film An Ode To My Father. Kaif, who is teaming up with her first co-star Salman Khan in their fifth film together, said it is exciting for her to play strong characters. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle in an exclusive interview, Katrina said, "To be a part of the film where there is a strong character written for a girl is always very exciting. After being in lots of films, today what really excites me is what's written on the paper and what role I am going to play. When I first read this script, I just loved the character of 'Kumud' and it was definitely something I wanted to throw myself into." Also Read | Katrina Kaif will definitely win National Award for 'Bharat', says Salman Khan Does Katrina believe that the narrative around female characters changing in Bollywood? She said, "Well, it's not there were no strong female characters before as I have played some really fantastic characters in films like 'Namastey London', 'Rajneeti'. Those were really strong female characters. In today's time, there is a bit more open market for different kinds of roles in different kinds of films. It is maybe not on a huge scale of commerce yet but, there's more room for different kinds of films. There are definitely more strong female characters now." Speaking about rave reviews she received for her last release, Anand L Rais Zero that also starred Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina said, "Just the unanimous feedback from everyone was very, very nice to hear. It is mainly because you want to know that your work is resonating with people. That's what the ultimate goal is. So, that overall feedback for me was really special." Post positive feedback to her last performance, Katrina is on the lookout for interesting characters. In 'Bharat', the actress will be seen playing a no non-sense government officer named Kumud Raina. Speaking about what attracted to this character, the actress said, "Kumud is a very spirited person - that really worked for me. And because her journey spans to the entire film, it gave me an arc that I can hold on to. It was like living that process, that journey of who that person was. I like the fact she is outspoken, she is not soft, she's not really sorry for herself, she speaks her mind, she takes responsibility for her actions. I like all these qualities." Like many of her contemporaries who have ventured into film production, Katrina too would want to create content. "Yes, it is definitely on the cards! With production, there are a few ideas which I am excited about and hopefully it will happen soon. The idea of putting my name on a project that I feel strongly about is amazing," she mentioned. Also Read | Salman Khan's brilliant performance is my takeaway, says 'Bharat' director Ali Abbas Zafar Katrina Kaif recently revealed that she is very much single, so does that mean there's no hurry in settling down? The actress told, "I do believe in the institution of marriage and having kids. But I am taking one day at a time. I don't know what would happen next." Bharat is scheduled to hit theatres on Eid, June 5. Actress Harshita Gaur will soon make her Telugu debut with Faluknama Das. Directed by Vishwak Sen, who also plays the lead role, the Mumbai actress will be seen as a medico in the crime drama. Talking about the film, Harshita says, I play Sakhi, an MBBS student, shes a spirited girl who has her values intact. She aspires to become a great doctor but what happens to her when she meets Das (played by Vishwak Sen) has been grippingly narrated. Stating that making her acting debut in the South was a memorable experience, Harshita explains, I was very excited when I got the offer because working in the South means a lot their concepts are very good, different and unusual. In fact, the South always springs a surprise with their concept of cinema. I am now looking forward to working in more films. The actress has done quite a bit of homework to prepare for her part. I have learnt classical dance, apart from picking up the language. Since I was new to Telugu, I tried to understand the meaning of my dialogues so that I could express myself better, she shares. Harshita admits that the biggest challenge has been to get the language and expressions right. But I learned the language to overcome that hurdle, she explains. Genomic Prediction is powering ahead with their innovation, giving parents the options of seeing a scorecard of sorts of their embryo. (Photo: Representational/Pixabay) The medical field is progressing faster than ever and now, genetically modified IQs in newborns are just a decade away from being a reality. A scientist has predicted that IVF couples can soon choose the desired qualities that they need in a child though genetic designing. Accurate IQ predictors are possible in the next 10 years, if not the next five, said Stephen Hsu, co-founder of Genomic Prediction at Michigan State University. He predicts that certain countries would adopt these innovations. Genetic modification of the embryos has been done in the past to fix hereditary diseases and to prevent other deadly genes being passed on from the carrier parent. But predicting IQ is far more difficult and complex than fixing diseases. This kind of practice comes with a lot of ethical questions. The first example that comes to mind is Hitlers attempts at controlled breeding of desirable traits for the next generation. Before taking the medical leap, it is important to have ethical guidelines in place to prevent a second wave of eugenics. Concerns were raised after a Chinese scientist He Jiankui attempted to alter the DNA of twin girls to cure them of HIV, reported DailyMail . Genomic Prediction is powering ahead with their innovation, giving parents the options of seeing a scorecard of sorts of their embryo. It shows the possible genetic defects, risk of diseases and a rough estimate of intelligence. This scorecard is currently not allowed in many countries including the US and the UK, will soon come around, said Stephen Hsu. Maybe the bottom 1 per cent embryo will grow up to be a great person; even be a scientist, but the odds are against it,' Hsu said of the 'low IQ' embryos. A decade ago, the prospect of tweaking DNA was preposterous; something that people didnt expect possible in the foreseeable future. And now, with scientists considering altering the IQ via genetic modification, medicine had advanced a long way. Scientists can now analyse how genes impact outcomes and attempt to change them. Genomic Prediction is confident that people will soon come around to the idea of modifying traits. The IVF pioneers were called monsters. It was predicted that these babies would have health problems. But now, IVF is completely normalised. Everyone who is pointing their finger at [Genomic Prediction] now should go back and read those articles, concluded Hsu. Kargil war, also known as the Kargil conflict, was an armed conflict between India and Pakistan that took place between May and July 1999 in the Kargil district of Kashmir and elsewhere along the Line of Control (LoC). (Photo: ANI) Saharanpur: Led by Air Chief Marshal (ACM) BS Dhanoa, the Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters will fly in a missing man formation from Sarsawa base on Tuesday to pay homage to IAF jawans who lost their lives when an Indian Mi-17 helicopter was shot down by Pakistan during the Kargil war. 14 Corps Commander Lieutenant General YK Joshi will also be part of the team. Earlier on Monday, a squadron of MiG-21 aircraft led by the IAF chief flew in the missing man formation to pay tribute to Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja who was killed in action in Operation Safed Sadar during the Kargil war. Kargil war, also known as the Kargil conflict, was an armed conflict between India and Pakistan that took place between May and July 1999 in the Kargil district of Kashmir and elsewhere along the Line of Control (LoC). The IAF had played a key role in enabling the Indian Army to recapture the majority of the positions on the Indian side of the LOC infiltrated by the Pakistani troops and terrorists. The war came to an end on July 26 with a decisive victory for India as it regained Kargil and Pakistan being criticised globally for instigating the war and for making its paramilitary forces cross the LoC. Mumbai: Have you missed any news today? Here are the top national, international headlines of the day. Setback for Mamata: In a setback for Mamata Banerjee, three Trinamool Congress legislators, including Mukul Roys son Subhrangshu Roy and more than 63 councillors joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday. Read: Setback for Mamata: 2 TMC MLAs, more than 63 councillors join BJP Mamata to attend PM Narendra Modi's swearing-in: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who had a bitter spat with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Lok Sabha elections, has been invited to attend his swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, which she has accepted. Read: Mamata to attend Modi's swearing-in Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth on PM Modi: He is a charismatic leader. In India, after Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi he is now a charismatic leader. I will be going for the swearing in ceremony of Narendra Modi ji, he said. Read: After Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi, Modi most charismatic leader: Rajinikanth M K Stalin on Tamil Nadu Assembly: Riding high on his party's recent electoral success, DMK president M K Stalin on Tuesday said that his party will take a decision on whether to bring a no-confidence motion against AIADMK led government in the state after the announcement of dates for the assembly session. Read: 'Wait and see': Stalin on whether DMK will bring no-confidence motion in TN Assembly Shashi Tharoor's remark on Congress: Rahul Gandhi is the best person to pull the Congress out of its predicament following the setback in the Lok Sabha polls, says party leader Shashi Tharoor while declaring that his party is alive and kicking and it is too premature to write its obituary. Read: Ready to take job of Congress leader in LS if offered: Shashi Tharoor Priyanka Gandhi, Sachin Pilot meets Rahul Gandhi: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot on Tuesday arrived at the residence of party president Rahul Gandhi who has offered to step down from the party's top post. Read: Priyanka, Sachin Pilot meet Rahul Gandhi at his residence PM Modi meets former President Pranab Mukherjee: Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi on Tuesday met former president Pranab Mukherjee here to seek his blessings after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) recorded a landslide win in the Lok Sabha elections. Read: PM Modi calls Pranab Mukherjee as statesman; seeks blessing from ex-Prez Lalu Yadav's reaction on Rahul Gandhi's decision to quit: Imprisoned Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Lalu Prasad Yadav has said that Congress president Rahul Gandhis decision to quit following the devastating loss in the recent Lok Sahba polls, is suicidal, according to reports. Read: Rahuls decision to quit suicidal, walking into BJP's trap: RJD's Lalu Dr Payal suicide case: Amidst the row over the suicide of the 22-year-old Dr Payal Tadvi, a protest was held outside the BYL Nair Hospital in Mumbai on Thursday by the victim's mother Abida Tadvi along with her family members, locals and various social organisations. Read: Dr Payal suicide case: Family holds protest demanding swift justice Siddaramaiah dismisses claims of cabinet reshuffling: Amid reports that Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy will reshuffle his cabinet to save the coalition government, the JD(S)-Congress Coordination Committee chief Siddaramaiah on Tuesday said it would only be an expansion to fill three vacant posts. Read: No reshuffle, only filling up of 3 vacant posts: Siddaramaiah They joined the BJP at the party's headquarters here in the presence of BJP general secretary Kailash Vijaywargiya and Mukul Roy. (Photo: ANI | Twitter) New Delhi: In a setback for Mamata Banerjee, three Trinamool Congress legislators, including Mukul Roys son Subhrangshu Roy and more than 63 councillors joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday. TMC's Tusharkanti Bhattacharya and CPI(M)'s Debendra Nath Roy were the other MLAs from the state who joined the saffron party along with several councillors, BJP leader Anil Baluni said. Subhrangshu Roy was suspended by the TMC for his "anti-party" activities after the Lok Sabha results were announced. "I am joining the BJP after being inspired by Modi ji," said Subhrangshu, who was recently suspended from TMC for six years for anti-party activities. Senior party leaders, including West Bengal party in-charge Kailash Vijayvargiya and Mukul Roy, were present at the party headquarters for the occasion. Photo: ANI | Twitter "Like the elections were held in seven phases in West Bengal, joining in BJP will also happen in seven phases. Today was just the first phase," Vijayvargiya asserted. Before the announcement, he had said that "such joining will continue in future as well". In the Lok Sabha polls, the TMC fell to 22 seats from 34, while the BJP's tally zoomed to 18 from two. With most of the councillors switching their political affiliation, three municipalities -- Kanchrapara, Halishahar, and Naihati -- will be now controlled by the BJP. Currently, TMC controls these urban bodies. Seventeen out of 24 councillors including the chairman of Kanchrapara municipality, 17 out of 23 councillors including chairman and vice chairman of Halishahar municipality and 29 out of 31 councillors of the Naihati municipality have crossed over from TMC to BJP. Meanwhile, 16 councillors of Kanchrapara municipality collectively withdrew from TMC Councillor's Party. A Zila Parishad member from Purba Bardhaman district and some village heads have also chosen to work for BJP. Addressing the media on the occasion, Mukul Roy said, "There are some more people who are ready to join the party. You will see a line of MLAs joining BJP starting June 1." "Like the elections were held in seven phases in West Bengal, joinings in BJP will also happen in seven phases. It was the first phase today," added Vijayvargiya. "The people who are feeling suffocation in TMC due to Mamata Banerjee's dictatorship want to come to the party but we would not let everyone come in. Only leaders who fit in BJP will be inducted in the party," he mentioned. Vijayvargiya also said Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led government may have to "struggle for its existence" in the coming days. "We extend our wishes to Mamata ji that she retains the Chief Minister post till 2021 but if she herself cuts short her period, only she will be responsible for the outcome. We want to make our government in the state in 2021. But if her people continue to leave her, we can do anything," he added. The BJP broke into the TMC citadel winning 18 Lok Sabha seats, 16 more than it bagged in the 2014 general elections, while TMC bagged 22 out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Congress managed to win just two seats, while the Left parties drew a blank. With inputs from ANI. While the Indian textile industry is already facing sluggish demand in domestic markets, it is also witnessing stagnant exports, and the prospective job losses would be approximately 1.5 lakh. (Representional Image) Coimbatore: The Indian Texpreneurs Federation (ITF) has appealed to textile brands and retailers to focus on local sourcing to support domestic manufacturers, as this would create enormous job opportunities in the Indian sector. Speaking on the increasing trend of import of textile products, convener of ITF, Prabhu Damodharan said, Bangladesh's overall exports to India during July-April of the current fiscal, 2018-19, has increased by an astounding 53 per cent to touch US $1.07 billion. Data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) shows, Bangladesh earned $ 701.56 million during the same period of the last financial year. According to him, a major contributor to this has been from the readymade apparel sector. He said, "India has lost nearly Rs 7500 crore worth of garment business to its neighbour. It would have created an additional 6,000 jobs in the spinning sector, 500 jobs in the processing sector, one lakh jobs in the garment sector and another 40,000 jobs in the printing and embroidery sector of the textile value chain." While the Indian textile industry is already facing sluggish demand in domestic markets, it is also witnessing stagnant exports, and the prospective job losses would be approximately 1.5 lakh. It will make a severe impact on the textile manufacturing sector," he rued. Mr Damodharan said, "as per industry experts, Western retailers with outlets in India, as well as Indian local brands are sourcing their goods from Bangladesh. It is paradoxical because our Central government is making efforts to promote "Make in India", "Skill India" and incentivizing job creations in the textile industry, he pointed out. He noted that considering the situation of the Indian textile industry and India's job creation challenge, the ITF urges all brands and retail chains operating in India to explore possibilities of partnerships with garmenting hubs of the country like Coimbatore, Tirupur, Karur, Erode ,Surat and Ludhiana. "Indian clusters can better serve the sourcing needs of both Western and Indian brands with quality and competitive pricing , than products sourced from either Bangladesh, Sri Lanka or Indonesia," he added. Bhopal: AICC general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia is said to be the front runner in the race for post of president of Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) of Madhya Pradesh with chief minister Kamal Nath dropping hints to relieve himself of the party charge in the wake of dismal show of Congress in Lok Sabha polls in MP. Sources said Mr Scindia was most likely to take over the rein of Congress in MP to revive the sagging morale of party cadre caused by the debacle of Congress in LS in the state. Mr Scindia had to drop his scheduled visit to MP twice in the past one week after he was asked by the party high command to stay put in New Delhi. He was scheduled to visit Guna Lok Sabha constituency after he lost the polls from the seat, a senior Congress leader said on Tuesday. Significantly, CM Nath, who is also MP PCC president, has clarified that he had volunteered earlier to relieve himself of party charge, to focus on governance of the state. Mr Nath had desired to step down from PCC chief post after he was made the CM in December last year, saying that it was very challenging to hold two important charges as chief minister and PCC president. However, he was asked by the party high command to continue in party post in view of the LS elections held barely six months after last years assembly polls in the state. Demand for Mr Scindia, who lost elections in Guna LS seat in the polls, to take over party charge in MP has grown after party posted a miserable show in the recently held parliamentary elections. At least two senior ministers in Kamal Nath cabinet, Jitu Patwari and Imarti Devi have come out openly demanding to replace Mr Nath with Mr Scindia as PCC chief. I am of the view that Mr Scindia is the perfect choice for the party post at this juncture, Mr Patwari told reporters in Bhopal. The samiti leaders said that they wanted a comprehensive law detailing how rituals should be reformed with the faithful having the final say. The Supreme Court verdict not only interferes in the rights and powers of the deity, but also declares places of worship as public places. Kochi: The Sabarimala Karma Samiti has decided to provide documents and other materials to the central government to help it make a piece of legislation for the protection of faith at Sabarimala temple. The core committee of the samiti which met here on Tuesday decided to prepare a plan of action for the purpose. The samiti will also launch a drive to allay the peoples doubts on the entry of women at Sabarimala. The samiti leaders said that they wanted a comprehensive law detailing how rituals should be reformed with the faithful having the final say. The Supreme Court verdict not only interferes in the rights and powers of the deity, but also declares places of worship as public places. Since the BJP has promised legislation in its manifesto, the samithi will root for steps in that respect, general convener S.J.R. Kumar and president K.P. Sasikala told reporters after the meeting. The legal possibilities of securing a favourable verdict from the Supreme Court too will be explored. They said that the people had voted against the arrogance of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the governments stand aimed at destructing the Sabarimala shrine. The Karma Samithi did not exhort the people to vote for any particular party. The faithful did not vote for a particular party or front. From the beginning, the BJP supported the cause and its vote share increased by 13 lakh, they said. It was not possible to say whether the issue would come up in the Assembly bypolls. It may be resolved even before that, they said and asked why the Congress leaders did not speak of legislation ahead of the Lok Sabha election. Now they are aiming at the Assembly bypoll, they said and added a state-level meeting of the Karma Samithi will be held at Pandalam on July 4. Hyderabad: TRS working president K.T. Rama Rao said on Tuesday that he was not prepared to accept that he did not perform his job well, which led to the partys losses in the Lok Sabha elections in the state. He said he did not feel that he had failed as working president. He was speaking informally with mediapersons in the backdrop of the partys defeat in the Lok Sabha election at Karimnagar, which he oversaw, and Nizamabad, and the victory by three lakh votes at Medak where party leader T. Harish Rao was incharge. Asked about the Medak result, Mr Rama Rao said that though the party had won with a huge majority, the lead of the TRS had decreased in Siddipet, which is represented by Mr Harish Rao. Mr Rama Rao also said there was no truth in the talk that Mr Harish Rao was sidelined. On the defeat of Ms K. Kavitha from Nizamabad, he said that the large number of farmers contesting from the constituency were not the reason for the loss. Those who filed the nominations were not farmers, but political leaders, he said and alleged that the Congress and BJP leaders had colluded in the election. Dont forget that Kavitha is the daughter of a fighter. I and Kavitha had faced many setbacks in the past and one defeat would not demoralise us, he said. Maintaining that there were several factors and reasons behind the victory of the BJP and defeat of the TRS in certain seats, he said even the BJP leaders would not have thought that they would win Adilabad. The BJP got 50,000 votes in Sircilla segment in the Lok Sabha polls but only 3,000 in the Assembly elections in December, he pointed out. He said that national leaders like Congress president Rahul Gandhi and former prime minister H.D. Deve Gowda had also lost the election. He pointed out that there would have been no difference even if TRS would have won all 16 seats as the BJP got a majority on its own. New Delhi: RSS supremo Mohan Bhagwat reached New Delhi on Tuesday and is likely to hold discussions with the BJP top brass on the formation of Narendra Modis new council of ministers that will take the oath on May 30. Ahead of the new governments formation, BJP president Amit Shah also met Mr Modi and the two leaders possibly deliberated on the PM-elects new team. Amid growing speculation over who will make it to Mr Modis new team and whether or not Mr Shah would be accommodated in it, the RSS supremos presence in New Delhi furthered the speculation that the BJP top brass would seek the Sangh Parivars approval for its decisions. The RSS, sources said, is in favour of Mr Shah remaining head of the BJP, which under his leadership grew exponentially. This issue could also be discussed with Mr Bhagwat. The RSS joint general secretary incharge of BJP affairs, Dr Krishna Gopal, is also expected to join the meeting. Sangh Parivar affiliates and its cadre play a key role in the BJPs election strategy, with key RSS leaders like Shiv Prakash and Saudan Singh implementing the partys strategies on the ground. Both the RSS leaders are among those seconded to the BJP and are currently members of Mr Shahs team. President Ram Nath Kovind had dissolved the 16th Lok Sabha on Saturday after Mr Modi and his government submitted their resignations to pave the way for the formation of a new government at the Centre after the BJP won 303 of the 542 Lok Sabha seats for which elections were held recently. Mr Modi was appointed Prime Minister after the BJP-led NDA had staked its claim. Speculation is rife that states like Odisha, West Bengal and Telangana will have more representation in Mr Modis new council of ministers compared to his previous team, as the BJP gained significantly in these states. New Delhi: India will persist with its policy of not having talks with Pakistan unless it stops cross-border terrorism, and no decision has been taken as yet on any separate bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit that will take place at Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on June 13-14. It is, however, a distinct possibility that the two leaders, besides exchanging pleasantries when they meet at the summit, may also hold an informal meeting on the summits sidelines. As already reported in this newspaper, the Pakistan PM has not been invited for the swearing-in ceremony. New Delhi: The upheaval in the Congress continued for the fifth consecutive day as Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday refused to budge from his stand of resigning as party chief. After turning away a number of party leaders a day earlier, Mr Gandhi interacted with a number of visitors on Tuesday at his Tughlaq Lane residence, including with his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, partys chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala and general secretary K.C. Venugopal. He also met Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot and his deputy Sachin Pilot amid rumblings of discontent in the state after he criticised Mr Gehlot over the washout in the desert state. Amid the talk of another Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting in the next few days, party leaders continued to urge Mr Gandhi to reconsider his resignation. Delhi Congress chief Sheila Dikshit appealed to Mr Gandhi to withdraw his decision to step down, saying the party has bounced back in the past from challenging circumstances. Sources said Mr Tharoor and former MP from Guna, Jyotiraditya Scindia are among the names doing the rounds as possible successors to Mr Gandhi. Meanwhile, the crisis in Rajasthan Congress after the debacle in the Lok Sabha polls deepened on Tuesday with two more leaders voicing their disappointment over the partys poor performance despite an advisory from the party against making public statements. Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee secretary Sushil Asopa said the state unit chief Sachin Pilot should have been made chief minister instead of Mr Gehlot. Jaipur former mayor Jyoti Khandelwal, who was also the Congress candidate in the Lok Sabha polls, blamed poor booth management for her own defeat and sought a detailed analysis. Earlier, Rajasthan ministers Udai Lal Anjana and Ramesh Meena had also demanded introspection and a detailed analysis of the defeat. Minister Lalchand Kataria on Sunday had announced his resignation from the state Cabinet. AICC general secretary in-charge of Rajasthan, Avinash Pande, has advised party workers against airing their views in public. Congress leaders should refrain from giving public statements. A review meeting on the election results will be held soon and every Congress man will have a chance to express his thoughts, he said. Patna: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad on Tuesday termed Congress president Rahul Gandhis offer to resign as suicidal and said it would amount to falling into the BJPs trap. Rahul Gandhis decision to quit from his post would be suicidal not only for his party but for all social and political force battling against the Sangh Parivar. It will amount to falling into the BJPs trap. Opposition parties had contested the election with a goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative, Mr Yadav said this while analysing the results of the recently concluded general election. His statement has come amid reports that AICC President Rahul Gandhi is adamant to quit from his post following his partys dismal performance in the election. RJD and other regional parties had contested election in an alliance with the Congress party in Bihar. Mr Yadav is currently undergoing treatment for multiple serious ailments at Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIIMS) Ranchi after he was convicted in the fodder scam cases in December 2017. Reports suggest that poor performance of grand alliance in Bihar and Jharkhand had upset the imprisoned leader to an extent that he had stopped taking his food for two days. RJD sources, however, said that he finally took his meal on Sunday after doctors worried for his health requested that food intake was necessary for his medication. The NDA comprising of BJP, JD(U) and LJP won 39 out of 40 seats in Bihar. Congress managed to win only Kishanganj seat. Chennai: The Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (Economic Offences) Court-I, has adjourned hearing on the decade-old Fera case against V.K. Sasikala, arrested and detained in connection with disproportionate asset case in Bengaluru prison, to July 16. Concurring with trial court order, the Madras high court in a recent order directed VK Sasikala to appear through video conferencing from the Bengaluru prison for questioning relating to the case. According to prosecution five cases registered against Sasikala and another accused Bhaskaran, brother of Amma Makkal Munetra Kazhagam leader TTV Dhinakaran, and JJ TV (predecessor of Jaya TV) by ED on charges of violating the Fera. They allegedly made payments in the US and Singapore dollars to foreign firms for hiring transponders, equipment and uplink facilities for JJ TV during 1995 and 1996. After ED completed arguments, judge S. Malarmathi recently directed superintendent of the Parpana Agrahara prison to produce Sasikala before the court on May 13. Challenging the trial court order, Sasikala approached the Madras high court, which directed the Sasikala to appear before the trial court. When the matter came up for hearing the judge, adjourned the matter to July 16. Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala police has stepped up surveillance and vigilance after intelligence reports stated that a boat with 15 ISIS terrorists had set-off from Sri Lanka to India. Keralas Director General of Police Lokanath Behera held a meeting with security agencies. The Navy and Coast Guard are keeping a close eye off Kerala and Lakshadweep coasts. The intelligence about a white boat with 15 ISIS terrorists leaving Sri Lanka was received last week, sources said. Police stations and police chiefs in coastal districts have been asked to be alert in case suspicious vessels are spotted. G Lakshman, Inspector General of Police, Security has been appointed as the co-ordinator for the state to oversee security measures. Kerala police has been on high alert after the serial blasts in Sri Lanka on Easter. Though, the Sri Lankan government had blamed a local group National Thowheeth Jamaath for the attacks, ISIS had taken responsibility for the blasts. Intelligence agencies believe that a considerable number of people from Kerala are still with the ISIS. NDTV had reported that in recent arrests in Kerala, according to the National Investigation Agency, ISIS terrorists Riyas Aboobakr had confessed that he was planning to conduct a suicide attack in Kerala. The 29-year-old was arrested for allegedly being in touch with other ISIS terrorists who have left India. Bengaluru: Political turmoil has taken Karnataka by storm as fate of the state government hangs in uncertainty. The infighting between the Congress and JD(S) members has raised some questions on the sustainability of the coalition. In the 224-member Assembly, the Bharatiya Janata Party is the single largest party with 105 members. The BJP has been trying to destabilise the Congress-JD(S) coalition ever since the alliance got the required numbers and formed government in May 2018. A year later, many MLAs are unhappy for being kept out of the Cabinet. Besides, the Congress has 79 MLAs in the Assembly and the JD(S) has 37 MLAs so when the CM's position and about 10 ministers were given to the JD(S), the Congress MLAs felt that the party has ceded too much power to the lesser ally. News18 has reported the speculation that it would be the JD(S) ministers who would be asked to step down to allow more Congress ministers in the government to reach a negotiation. Many in the JD(S) like D C Thammanna and C S Puttaraju both ministers from the Mandya region have already said they would willingly step down if asked to. There is one vacancy after the death of C S Shivalli about two months back. Former Karnataka CM & BJP leader BS Yeddyurappa has said, We have won 25 out of 28 seats in Karnataka (Lok Sabha election). It is a historic win. It is better if the government is dissolved and mid-term polls are held. No BJP MLA is in touch with Congress or JD(S). The BJP had anticipated the collapse of the ruling coalition and a surge in its tally in the assembly after the Lok Sabha election results, claiming 20 odd Congress MLAs were unhappy with the government and might take any decision. Earlier former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah said that the coalition was strong and dismissed Yeddyurappas claims of rift between the parties. Home minister MB Patil, of the Congress, did not comment on imminent resignations and said, "This government will last four (more) years. Nobody can disturb it." Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy has asked media to keep patience. Arjun Sampath was earlier an Hindu Munnani (an RSS affiliate) functionary and later founded the HMK. (Photo: File) Chennai: Hindu Makkal Katchi founder-leader Arjun Sampath visited Sri Lanka and paid homage to the victims of the Easter Sunday serial blasts and those killed in the 2009 civil war, the Tamil Nadu based right-wing outfit said Tuesday. Sampath embarked on a four-day "spiritual sojourn," to the island nation on May 23 and visited the Kandy Murugan temple, Sita Eliya (temple), and also took part in an event at a Shiva temple in Jaffna. He paid homage to the civilian victims of the 2009 civil war between the government forces and the now defunct Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, the outfit said. Sampath also paid homage to the over 250 people killed in the serial blasts on April 21. On May 28, he returned to Tamil Nadu, the Hindu Makkal Katchi (HMK) added. Arjun Sampath was earlier a Hindu Munnani (an RSS affiliate) functionary and later founded the HMK. Last year, five men were arrested for plotting to eliminate him and his son Omkar Balaji. Narendra Modi and Imran Khan are scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan next month. (Photo: File) Islamabad/Karachi: Pakistan has tried to downplay Indias decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modis swearing-in on Thursday, claiming that the Indian Prime Ministers internal politics do not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to Prime Minister Modis inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a part of the seven-member regional grouping. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Prime Minister Khan to Prime Minister Modis inauguration, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. His (Prime Minister Modis) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon), Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. Indias internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation, he said. Modi and Khan are scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan next month. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Prime Minister Modis swearing-in held on May 26 in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Khan after he won the general election last year and wrote a letter as well. Prime Minister Khan, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Mr Modi as a goodwill gesture, the Pakistani foreign minister said. Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region... the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tension, Qureshi said. Prime Minister Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmirs Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi on Tuesday met former President Pranab Mukherjee here to seek his blessings after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) recorded a landslide win in the Lok Sabha elections. (Photo: Twitter/ ANI) New Delhi: Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi on Tuesday met former president Pranab Mukherjee here to seek his blessings after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) recorded a landslide win in the Lok Sabha elections. In a tweet, Modi called Mukherjee a "statesman". "Meeting PranabDa is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation. Sought his blessings during our meeting," Modi said. Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation. Sought his blessings during our meeting today. pic.twitter.com/dxFj6NPNd5 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2019 Since leading the BJP to a victory in the Lok Sabha battle, Modi has been meeting senior leaders ahead of his swearing in on Thursday. Mukherjee served as President from 2012 to 2017. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses et all. Happy reading. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala and party general secretary in-charge KC Venugopal were also present at Gandhi's residence. (Photo: ANI) New Delhi: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot on Tuesday arrived at the residence of party president Rahul Gandhi who has offered to step down from the party's top post. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala and party general secretary in-charge KC Venugopal were also present at Gandhi's residence. This meeting came after Gandhi had offered to step down from his party post at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting, held on Saturday, taking moral responsibility for Congress' dismal performance in the Lok Sabha elections. However, Gandhi's resignation offer was unanimously rejected by the CWC. Sources said that despite senior leaders making serious attempts to convince him to rethink on his decision, Gandhi is said to be unfazed. On Monday, party treasurer Ahmed Patel and Venugopal met with Gandhi at his residence here and urged him to continue to lead the party. Party leaders, sources said, maintained that Congress cannot afford to have a new leader at the helm for rebuilding the organisation at this juncture and that the responsibility for the defeat is collective and not individual. A CWC member said that an honest postmortem is the need of the hour. However, Congress had termed the developments as speculation and rumour. "The Congress party expects everyone including the media to respect the sanctity of a closed-door meeting of the CWC. Various conjectures, speculations, insinuations, assumptions, gossip and rumour mongering in a section of the media is uncalled for and unwarranted," Surjewala tweeted earlier. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses et all. Happy reading. Congress chief Rahul Gandhi to appear before it in connection with criminal defamation suits filed against him by the Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank and its chairman Ajay Patel. (Photo: File) Ahmedabad: A court here has asked Congress chief Rahul Gandhi to appear before it in connection with criminal defamation suits filed against him by the Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank and its chairman Ajay Patel. The complainants had moved the court last year after Gandhi and Congress national spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala reportedly alleged that the bank was involved in a "scam" to convert scrapped notes worth Rs 745.59 crore within five days of demonetisation announcement on November 8, 2016. Gandhi was on April 9 summoned by the court of Additional Metropolitan Magistrate S K Gadhvi to appear before it on May 27. But his counsel Monday sought more time for his client's appearance on the ground that the documents pertaining to testimonies of the complainants and witnesses were yet to be translated into English from Gujarati. Gandhi's counsel also submitted before the court that his client will be at Shantivan in New Delhi on May 27 to pay tribute to India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his death anniversary. The court then fixed July 12 for Gandhi to appear before it. It also asked Surjewala to appear before it on the same date. The court had issued summonses to the two leaders on April 9 after finding prima facie evidence against them. The complainants have said that the two leaders levelled "false and defamatory allegations" against the bank. Based on testimonies of Patel as well as three other witnesses recorded on August 27 last year, the court had conducted an inquiry under section 202 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) before summoning Gandhi and Surjewala. The CrPC section deals with inquiry into a case to decide whether or not there is sufficient ground for proceeding. BJP president Amit Shah is one of the directors of the ADCB. The allegations were made by Gandhi and Surjewala on the basis of a response given by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development to an RTI query filed by a Mumbai-based activist. In the pleas filed through their lawyer, the ADCB and Patel had submitted before the court that the statements made by the two Congress leaders were false because the bank did not exchange such a huge amount of money. They had said the bank did not have so much (demonetised) money to exchange and claims of Gandhi and Surjewala were defamatory. He said the entire Opposition should take collective responsibility and introspect what went wrong. (Photo: Twitter | ANI) Patna: Imprisoned Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Lalu Prasad Yadav has said that Congress president Rahul Gandhis decision to quit following the devastating loss in the recent Lok Sahba polls, is suicidal, according to reports. Congress this time has won only 52 seats out of the total of 542 parliamentary seats while the PM Modi led NDA won 352. Rahuls offer to resign is suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India, the Rashtriya Janata Dal leader, who is serving a jail term in Ranchi in a fodder scam case, wrote in The Telegraph. Lalus RJD, which is now being led by his son, Tejashwi Yadav was decimated in the state, failing to get even one out of the states 40 parliamentary seats. The party which contested on 19 seats in alliance with Congress, HAM(S), VIP and RLSP, posted its worst performance ever since its inception in 1997 after breaking out of the Janata Dal. The RJD leader in his analysis wrote that Rahul Gandhi resigning would amount to walking into the BJP trap. The moment someone beyond the Gandhi-Nehru family replaces Rahul, the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah brigade will paint the new leader as puppet remotely controlled by Rahul and Sonia Gandhiwhy should Rahul give such opportunity t his political detractors, Prasad wrote. He said the entire Opposition should take collective responsibility and introspect what went wrong. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa on Tuesday said that if the Congress-JD(S) coalition decides to dissolve the state Assembly, he will welcome their decision. (Photo: File) Bengaluru: Buoyed by the party's resounding victory in the Lok Sabha elections, former chief minister and Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa on Tuesday said that if the Congress-JD(S) coalition decides to dissolve the state Assembly, he will welcome their decision. "We have won 25 out of 28 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka. This is a historic win. I will welcome the decision if they (the ruling alliance) dissolve the government and go for mid-term polls," he told reporters here. Resentment among the leaders of coalition came to the fore after the Congress-JD(S) coalition failed miserably in the Lok Sabha elections, managing to get only two parliamentary seats in the state. On Monday, senior Congress leader K N Rajanna had said, "This government will not remain in power as it will collapse after June 10. I have been told that he must have lost his post even before but as per my sources, BJP people in the state stopped till the Prime Minister takes the oath." Speaking further, state BJP chief said, "No BJP MLA is in touch with Congress or JDS. We are all together. I don't want to speculate on forming the government. Things will happen on its own." On May 14, Yeddyurappa had said, "Not a single person from BJP will join any other party. After May 23, more than 20 Congress MLAs who are not happy with HD Kumaraswamy will not continue in the party." Earlier, two Congress MLAs Ramesh Jarkiholi and Sudhakar met BJP leader R Ashok at veteran leader SM Krishna's residence in Bengaluru on Sunday. However, the MLAs clarified that they visited Krishna's residence to greet him for the success of BJP in the recently-held polls, adding that there was "nothing political" about the meeting. Yeddyurappa also accused Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy-led government of curtailing freedom of expression after Bengaluru police have filed an FIR against Vishweshwar Bhat, the editor of Kannada daily Vishwavani, for allegedly publishing derogatory remarks against Kumaraswamy's son Nikhil. "We oppose the FIR against Vishweshwar Bhat. JD(S) is trying to curtail freedom of expression. We are in full support of Vishwavani," BJP leader said. The FIR was registered on a complaint filed by General Secretary of the Legal Cell of Janata Dal (Secular) Pradeep Kumar S.P. here on Sunday. The complainant stated that the news item on an alleged heated conversation between Nikhil, who recently lost Mandya Lok Sabha constituency, and his grandfather JD(S) party supremo H.D. Deve Gowda, was meant to tarnish Nikhil's political career and to extract money. Yeddyurappa also said that he is going to Delhi for the oath-taking ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In Karnataka, BJP is the single largest party with 105 members in the 225 member assembly, while the ruling coalition has 117 members with 79 legislators from Congress, 37 from JD(S) and 1 from BSP. The JD(S)-Congress coalition which is in power in the state went through a rough patch during the campaigning of the recently held elections with leaders of both the parties accusing each other. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses et all. Happy reading. The Karnataka government of H.D. Kumaraswamy must withdraw the cases booked against the editor of a Kannada newspaper immediately to show it really believes in freedom of the press. In a vindictive step, the police filed criminal cases against the editor on charges of defamation, criminal intimidation, etc. This followed an article on the CMs sons disappointment at losing the Lok Sabha election to Ms Sumalatha, wife of late legislator-actor Ambareesh. The thrust of the article may have been questioned by the family, and a retraction was published. It was time to move on than escalate matters by filing criminal defamation charges, for which there is no place in a democracy that swears by freedom of speech and expression. Things are said at the hustings and written in the media as well as social media that may have proved challenging. But the political class can't take umbrage and react like too many in this privileged section have done. It makes sense to move on after the people's voice has been heard and their choice registered in the polls. To interfere with the media's functioning is not only counterproductive, but also anathema to the foundations of a democratic republic. Suing for defamation is not meant to be used as a way to muzzle the press or pursue a personal agenda. There have been cases of action against individuals too over posts in the social media caricaturing or lampooning top leaders. All of it points to the illiberal ways of those in power, and it's high time that this ended. The first time Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in 2014, he sought to make a splash by inviting Saarc leaders to his swearing-in ceremony. This was considered a great diplomatic move by the leader of a Hindutva party who was coming to power on his own terms in Parliament, without being hemmed in by allies. Who better than a leader from the BJP to attempt peace-making with Pakistan? This was the sense in the air. Similar thoughts were voiced when Atal Behari Vajpayee was PM, but we had the Kargil conflict willed by the Pakistan Army. Relations with Pakistan need to be maintained, hopefully on peaceful terms, as hostility in the neighbourhood is a bad augury for a nations international relations. Neighbourhood antagonisms cast a long shadow on a countrys foreign policy. New Delhis dealings with Islamabad are fraught due to history going back to Partition. Mr Modi perhaps felt he could get things going as he was presiding over a BJP with its own strength in Parliament. Alas, things didnt go the way the PM may have hoped. A spate of terrorist attacks, including the one at Pulwama as recently as February this year, snuffed out chances of good-neighbourly relations. The downward slide could not be arrested even with the arrival on the scene of Imran Khan as Pakistans new PM in 2018 as Mr Khan was not seen as an anti-India hawk. But no Pakistani leader is autonomous of the Pakistan Army. It was evident Pakistan couldnt be invited to Mr Modis swearing-in in 2019. Bilateral ties are still sour. In fact, the BJPs campaign in the recent Lok Sabha election, which has given Mr Modi a second term, was conscientiously built around the theme of nationalism, with the Pulwama terror attack and Indias counterstrike at Balakot becoming the signal factor. It is noteworthy that in Mr Modis first term, relations had deteriorated with Saarc neighbours Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, not just Pakistan. Was there any point really in inviting a clutch of countries to the swearing-in of a head of government? To avoid inviting Pakistan until bilateral ties with Islamabad return to an even keel, Mr Modi has chosen to invite the leaders of the Bimstec countries to his swearing-in for the second term. These are basically nations in the proximity of the Bay of Bengal. Several are members of Saarc too, and Thailand and Myanmar are members of Asean. Officially, it has been said that this aligns with the neighbourhood first maxim. This is tautological for it is a given that ties with neighbours are especially significant. We could well have skipped inviting any country for the PMs oath-taking without hurting our diplomatic relations. But the point seems to be to make a show of things! At least 27 of the victims were in the Antonio Trindade Penal Institute near Manaus. (Photo:AP) Rio de Janeiro: At least 55 inmates were killed in clashes in four prisons in northern Brazil on Monday, authorities said, a day after violence in one of the jails left 15 people dead. At least 27 of the victims were in the Antonio Trindade Penal Institute near Manaus, the capital of Amazonas state, where all four prisons are located. The federal government said it was sending reinforcements to boost security in the state's prisons. Also Read: After Venezuela, now clashes between prisoners in Brazil jail leave 15 dead: official Brazil has the world's third largest prison population, with 726,712 inmates as of June 2016, according to official statistics. The population is double the capacity of the nation's prisons, which in the same year was estimated to be 368,049 inmates. Along with severe overcrowding, Brazil's prisons are plagued by gang violence, while riots and breakout attempts are not uncommon. Tokyo: US President Donald Trump said on Monday a deal with Iran on its nuclear programme was possible, crediting economic sanctions for curbing activities Washington has said are behind a spate of attacks in the Middle East. "I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal, and I think that's very smart of them, and I think that's a possibility to happen," Trump said during a news conference with Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo. "It has a chance to be a great country with the same leadership," Trump said. "We aren't looking for regime change - I just want to make that clear. We are looking for no nuclear weapons." Also Read: Iran lambaste US after Trump's nuclear weapon comment In Tehran, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Iran was not seeking nuclear weapons, which its supreme leader had banned in an edict, adding on Twitter that US policies were hurting the Iranian people and causing regional tensions. President Donald Trump says Iran wants to make a deal. Trump, in a news conference in Tokyo on Monday, sais Iran's economy has taken a major downturn since he pulled the U.S. out of the Iran nuclear deal. "Actions-not words-will show whether or not that's @realDonaldTrump's intent," Zarif said. President Hassan Rouhani said in October the United States was seeking "regime change" in Iran, adding that the current US administration was the most hostile that the Islamic Republic had faced in its four decades. Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States after this month's attack on oil tankers in the Gulf region. Washington, a firm backer of Tehran's regional rival Saudi Arabia, has blamed the attacks on Iran, which denies the accusations. The United States has deployed a carrier strike group and bombers to the and announced plans to deploy 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict. Trump's national security adviser John Bolton said on Saturday that the United States had "deep and serious" intelligence on threats posed by Iran, without providing details. Trump, on a four-day visit to Japan, welcomed Abe's help in dealing with Iran after broadcaster NHK said Japan's leader is considering a trip to Tehran as early as mid-June. Iran said a visit was unlikely in the near future. "I know for a fact that the prime minister is very close with the leadership of Iran, and we'll see what happens," Trump said. At his joint news conference with Trump, Abe said Japan would do what it can on the Iran issue. Trump last year withdrew the United States from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, and is ratcheting up sanctions seeking to end Iran's international sales of crude oil and strangle its economy. Japan was a major buyer of Iranian oil for decades before US sanctions which Trump said were taking effect. "They were fighting in many locations," he said of Iran. "Now they are pulling back because they have serious economic problems." Bolton, who has spearheaded an increasingly hawkish US policy on Iran, described recent bomb attacks on tankers off the United Arab Emirates and a pipeline pumping station in Saudi Arabia, as well as a rocket attack in Baghdad's Green Zone, as "manifestations of concern" about Iran. Iran has distanced itself from the bombings and on Sunday, Zarif said his country will defend itself against any military or economic aggression. Moreover, five militants were killed in an airstrike in Musa Qalah district. (Representational Image) Helmand: At least 15 Taliban militants were killed in a series of operations conducted by Afghan forces in Southern Helmand province on Monday. According to the Khamma Press, the planned raids were conducted in various districts of the province. The forces have also detained four militants, and a tunnel used by the Taliban has also been destroyed. "In an Afghan special forces operation to disrupt Taliban IED facilitation and illegal narcotic financing in Nahr-e-Saraj district of Helmand, four Taliban fighters were detained and one tunnel was destroyed," said a military source. Moreover, five militants were killed in an airstrike in Musa Qalah district. "In Kajaki district, a strike killed two Taliban fighters," said the source. In another strike in Nahr-e-Saraj district, four more Taliban fighters were killed. However, the militant group has not commented on the operations yet. This comes weeks after sixth rounds of talks between the US and the Taliban ended in Doha. He once gouged her eyes and on another occasion chocked her with her handbag. (Representational Photo) Sydney: An Australian man who kidnapped and raped a British backpacker during a harrowing road trip hostage ordeal was sentenced Tuesday to 10 years in prison, Australia's national broadcaster said. Marcus Martin, 24, pleaded guilty to three counts of rape and one count of deprivation of liberty in October last year. He met the then 22-year-old victim at a party in Australia's northeast in January 2017 before forcing her on a 1,600-kilometre road trip in which she was repeatedly beaten and raped. The court heard the pair had moved from hotel room to hotel room, with Martin often forcing her to drive at gunpoint after destroying her passport, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation said. He once gouged her eyes and on another occasion chocked her with her handbag. "He threw away her birth control pills so she would never leave him because she would have his child," prosecutor Nathan Crane was quoted as saying by the ABC. Police rescued the women in March 2018 after petrol station attendees raised the alarm when she drove off without paying for fuel. Authorities found Martin hiding in the back of the vehicle. Australia is a popular destination for young backpackers, with around 600,000 touring the country every year. They occasionally run into trouble, most famously in the early 1990s when seven were murdered by Ivan Milat in a series of killings that terrified Australia. Milat is serving consecutive life sentences after the remains of two Britons, three Germans and two Australians were found buried in a forest southwest of Sydney. British Prime Minister Theresa May has announced she will quit next month, triggering a contest that will bring a new leader to power who is likely to push for a cleaner break with the European Union. Below are Conservatives who have either said they are putting themselves forward or are widely expected to run for the leadership, and what they have said about Brexit: Announced they are running: BORIS JOHNSON, 54 The face of the official campaign to leave the European Union, Johnson resigned as foreign minister in July in protest at Mays handling of the exit negotiations. Johnson set out his pitch to the membership in a speech at the partys annual conference in October some members queued for hours to get a seat. He called on the party to return to its traditional values of low tax and strong policing. On Brexit, Johnson used a newspaper column in April to argue for a standstill arrangement a managed no deal that would give us time to negotiate an FTA (Free Trade Arrangement) and to solve the issues raised in Northern Ireland. On Friday he said: We will leave the EU on October 31, deal or no deal adding that a second referendum on EU membership would be a very bad idea and divisive. He is the bookmakers favourite to succeed May. DOMINIC RAAB, 45 Raab quit as Mays Brexit minister last year in protest at her draft exit agreement saying it did not match the promises the Conservative Party made in the 2017 election. Raab served only five months as head of the Brexit department. He had held junior ministerial roles since being elected in 2010. Raab, a black belt in karate, campaigned for Brexit. On Brexit, Raab told the BBC on Sunday that he plans to seek a fairer deal with Brussels, including renegotiating the customs and border plans relating to Northern Ireland. He also said he would not delay Brexit beyond October however, and was prepared to leave without a deal. Raab said he expected that if Britain left without a deal, it would likely get to keep around 25 billion pounds of its 39 billion pound exit payment, and the government could use that money to support businesses through Brexit. MICHAEL GOVE, 51 Gove, one of the highest-profile Brexit campaigners during the 2016 referendum, has had to rebuild his cabinet career after falling early to May in the contest to replace David Cameron, who resigned the day after losing the referendum. Seen as one of the most effective members of cabinet in bringing forward new policies, the high-energy environment minister has become a surprise ally to May and has backed her Brexit strategy. He teamed up with Johnson during the 2016 Brexit campaign only to scupper Johnsons subsequent leadership bid by withdrawing his support at the last moment to run himself. Gove said on Sunday he believed he could unite the party and deliver Brexit, but did not set out what his plans were. JEREMY HUNT, 52 Hunt replaced Johnson as foreign minister in July and has urged the Conservative membership to set aside their differences over Brexit and unite against a common foe the EU. Hunt voted to remain in the EU in the referendum. He served six years as Britains health minister, a role that has made him unpopular with many voters who work in or rely on the state-run, financially stretched National Health Service. On Brexit, Hunt told the Sunday Times: We can never take no deal off the table but the best way of avoiding it is to make sure you have someone who is capable of negotiating a deal. At a lunch with journalists last month, he said: I would always prefer to leave with a deal because I think there will be disruption without a deal it would potentially be very significant and that is something I think anyone sensible would wish to avoid. But added: If there was a binary choice between no deal or no Brexit, I would choose no deal because I think the democratic risk of no Brexit ultimately is higher than the economic risk of no deal. SAJID JAVID, 49 Javid, a former banker and a champion of free markets, has served a number of cabinet roles and scores consistently well in polls of party members. A second-generation immigrant of Pakistani heritage, he has a portrait of late Conservative prime minister Margaret Thatcher on his office wall. Javid voted Remain in the 2016 referendum but was previously considered a eurosceptic. He has not said whether he plans to run but is considered to have been setting out his stall in speeches and media interviews. In announcing his leadership bid, Javid said: Im standing to be the next leader of (the) Conservatives and Prime Minister of our great country. We need to restore trust, bring unity and create new opportunities across the UK. First and foremost, we must deliver Brexit. Earlier, in response to a disastrous showing for the Conservatives in elections to the European Parliament, Javid also said the results showed that people want us to get on with it. Not another election or referendum asking if changed their mind. This month Javid said there was little to fear from a so-called no deal Brexit. You see, whatever the outcome of the EU exit, the UK will still have the capacity and the capability to protect itself, he said in a speech on security on May 20. RORY STEWART, 46 A former diplomat who once walked 6,000 miles across Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and Nepal, Stewart was promoted to International Development Secretary this month. Educated at the exclusive Eton College, Stewart was first elected to parliament in 2010 and backed remaining in the EU in the 2016 referendum. He opposes a no deal exit and has been a vocal advocate of Mays deal with Brussels. On Brexit, he told Sky News on Sunday that he favoured a pragmatic, moderate Brexit. He said he would not seek to change the Withdrawal Agreement which has been rejected by parliament three times and said anyone who said they could do so by October was deluding themselves or deluding the country. We have a deal negotiated with the European Union on the Withdrawal Agreement. What I would be doing in parliament and with the British people is sorting out that political declaration and landing it so we can get out and move on. ANDREA LEADSOM, 56 A pro-Brexit campaigner, Leadsom made it to the last two in the 2016 contest to replace Cameron. She withdrew after a backlash to an interview in which she said being a mother gave her more of a stake in the future of the country than May. Leadsom quit as Leader of the House of Commons earlier this month, saying she did not believe the governments approach would deliver on the Brexit referendum result. On Brexit, she told the Sunday Times she would put significant effort into encouraging the EU to come up with a deal that we can all live with but also said Britain had to leave by the end of October, with or without a deal. MATT HANCOCK, 40 Health minister Hancock, a former economist at the Bank of England, supported Remain in 2016. First elected to parliament in 2010, he has held several ministerial roles. On Brexit, he told BBC Radio that leaving without a deal was not an option as parliament would not allow it. He said he was open to renegotiate Mays deal with the EU but would focus on getting a Brexit deal through parliament. There is no point in becoming prime minister at this moment unless I am completely straight forward about the trade offs that exist and the realities of it. The trade offs between sovereignty and market access, the trade offs required to get a deal through this parliament, he said. ESTHER MCVEY, 51 The pro-Brexit former television presenter, who resigned as work and pensions minister in November in protest at Mays exit deal with the EU, said on Sunday Britain has to leave on Oct. 31 and if that means without a deal, then that is what it means. She told Sky News: We wont be asking for any more extensions, that is part of the corrosive uncertainty that individuals, business and the country dont want. We need to make sure we are ready to leave on that date. If the EU wants to come to us, the door is open, if they want to have a better deal that is fine, we have always wanted a free trade agreement but what we have got to do is not waste time, time is limited, we have to make sure that we are ready to leave. Expected to run: PENNY MORDAUNT, 46 Mordaunt is one of the last remaining pro-Brexit members of Mays cabinet. She became Britains first female defence secretary this month. A Royal Navy reservist, Mordaunt was previously international development minister. Many had expected her to join the wave of resignations that followed the publication of Mays draft withdrawal deal. GRAHAM BRADY, 51 Brady resigned as chair of the influential 1922 Committee of Conservative lawmakers on Friday because he was considering running for the leadership, the BBC reported. The 1922 Committee oversees the leadership contest. KIT MALTHOUSE, 52 A former deputy mayor of London, Malthouse became a Member of Parliament in 2015. He is a junior housing minister and helped author the so-called Malthouse Compromise plan to replace the unpopular Irish backstop in Britains EU exit deal with alternative arrangements to avoid a hard border. The Sun newspaper reported he was setting up a campaign team. JAMES CLEVERLY, 49 Cleverly became a junior Brexit minister last month, having previously been deputy chair of the Conservative Party. He worked in publishing before being elected to parliament in 2015. The Sun reported he was planning to run for leader. Brussels: European leaders descended on Brussels on Tuesday to begin the hunt for a new generation of top EU officials in the wake of elections that shook up traditional alliances. The key job to be filled is that of president of the European Commission, the unions powerful chief executive, a five-year post currently held by Jean-Claude Juncker. Under EU treaty law, the European Council of 28 national leaders nominates a commission president, then the new 751-member parliament ratifies their choice. But the procedure, while seemingly straightforward, masks a complex po-wer struggle between rival states and ideological blo-cs and between the leaders and parliament itself. Junckers deputy and the centre-left challenger for the top job, former Dutch minister Frans Timmer-mans, compares the ruthless intrigue to Game of Thrones. The tussle kicks off on Tuesday when European Council President Donald Tusk hosts the EU leaders for a summit dinner in Brussels to lay out the ground rules. Ahead of the summit, party and national leaders met in various smaller groups to scheme, and the heads of the main party blocs in the parliament held closed door talks. Many in Brussels argue that the European project is best served by a political commission headed by a president with a mandate from the parliament. But most national leaders think the unions legitimacy derives from its member states and that the Council should be able to pick one of their own someone with leadership experience. The results of the EU elections did not strengthen parliaments hand except perhaps for the boost of the larger than expected voter turnout. While a threatened surge of eurosceptic and far-right populist parties was largely contained, the pro-Europe centre was fragmented, with liberals and Greens gaining ground. In previous years, a coalition of the socialist S&D and the conservative EPP was able to wield a majority. Now they cannot govern without the liberal ALDE or the Greens. And this complicates their choice of a spitzenkandidat or lead candidate for the Commission. The EPP insists that as it is the biggest bloc, its candidate Manfred Weber must be Commission president, but it lost around 40 seats at the election, only narrowly remaining the largest group. But Weber, who has spent the last 15 years in the European Parliament, is seen as short on charisma, has no executive experience and is opposed by French President Emmanuel Macron. Eight of the 28 EU leaders hail from EPP parties, but Hungarian premier Viktor Orbans Fidesz is suspended from the group and Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz was ousted by parliament on Monday. Timmermans, a centre-left Dutchman with more executive experience, will have the S&Ds backing and ALDE, while dubious about the process, could back Margrethe Vestager. The Danish competition commissioner might win Macrons support while Germanys Chancellor Angela Merkel backs Weber. Macron met Spains Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez for dinner on the eve of the summit. Zarif also denied Iran was seeking nuclear weapons, after Trump said during a visit to Japan that "we're not looking for regime change in Iran. (Photo:AP) Tehran: Iran hit out at the United States on Monday for "causing tensions" after President Donald Trump said his government was not seeking regime change and that he would welcome talks with Tehran. The Trump administration was "hurting the Iranian people and causing tension in the region," Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif wrote on his Twitter account. "Actions -- not words -- will show whether or not that's @realDonaldTrump's intent," Zarif added, referencing the US president's Twitter handle. Also Read: Iraq wants to be peacemaker as Washington-Tehran feud heats up Zarif also denied Iran was seeking nuclear weapons, after Trump said during a visit to Japan that "we're not looking for regime change (in Iran)... we're looking for no nuclear weapons". Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei "long ago said we're not seeking nuclear weapons -- by issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them," the foreign minister tweeted. President Donald Trump says Iran wants to make a deal. Trump, in a news conference in Tokyo on Monday, sais Iran's economy has taken a major downturn since he pulled the U.S. out of the Iran nuclear deal. Khamenei is said to have issued a fatwa against nuclear weapons in 2003 and has reiterated it several times since. Iran is locked in a tense standoff with the United States which has beefed up its military presence in the Middle East in response to alleged threats from the Islamic republic. On Saturday, Zarif called a deployment of extra US troops to the region "very dangerous and a threat to international peace and security." It follows a US decision earlier this month to send an aircraft carrier strike force and B-52 bombers in a show of force against what Washington's leaders said they believed was an imminent Iranian plan to attack US assets. Washington says the latest reinforcements are in response to a "campaign" of recent attacks including a rocket launched into the Green Zone in Baghdad, explosive devices that damaged four tankers near the entrance to the Gulf, and drone strikes by Yemeni rebels on a key Saudi oil pipeline. Iran has denied any involvement in the attacks. Al Jazeera confirmed after quoting Iraqi court officials that the man, identified as Mustafa Mohammed Ibrahim, 37, had been sentenced to death by hanging. (Representational Image) Baghdad: A court here on Monday announced death sentence for a fourth French citizen in a row for joining the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS). Al Jazeera confirmed after quoting Iraqi court officials that the man, identified as Mustafa Mohammed Ibrahim, 37, had been sentenced to death by hanging, a day after three other Frenchmen were given death sentences for being ISIL members. In a statement, the French foreign ministry said following the judgment that it respected the sovereignty of the Iraqi authorities and that ISIL members "had to answer for their crimes". "The French embassy in Iraq, in its role as a provider of consular protection, is taking the necessary steps to convey its position to the Iraq authorities," the statement added. Meanwhile, human rights groups have repeatedly criticised the trials, which they say often rely on circumstantial evidence or confessions obtained under torture. In addition, the French foreign ministry has also reportedly reiterated its opposition to the death penalty, saying it would take "the necessary steps" to prevent Iraq from carrying out capital punishment against its citizens. "France is opposed in principle to the death penalty at all times and in all places," the ministry said in a statement cited by the state media. Paris has so far categorically refused to take back ISIL fighters and their wives, although a handful of children have been repatriated. On Sunday, the Bagdad court had three French citizens, named Kevin Gonot, Leonard Lopez and Salim Machou, sentenced to death. The four convicted men were handed over to the Iraqi authorities in February by the United States-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), part of a group of 280 Iraqi and foreign detainees that also included the French citizens. Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy is contemplating reshuffling his cabinet by obtaining the resignations of some ministers and replacing them with dissident legislators. This a desperate move by the CM to protect the fall of the government. Having said that, it seems that the Damocles Sword is hanging over the JD(S) ministers of the Mysuru region. JD(S) leaders of the region feel that the CM may seek the resignation of the ministers of the region as most of them are loyal to the party and to himself said B Harshavardhan, Nanjangud MLA and son-in-law of MP-elect V Srinivas Prasad. As per the formula arrived by the leaders of the JD(S)-Congress coalition, the criteria to seek the resignation was loyalty. If the loyalty of the ministers is beyond question, there is no risk of rebellion. It is expected that Tourism Minister Sa Ra Mahesh, Minor Irrigation Minister C S Puttaraju and Transport Minister D C Thammanna will volunteer to resign, he added. The MLA said that the move was to reprimand the leaders of Mandya Lok Sabha constituency where Kumaraswamys son K Nikhil faced a humiliating defeat against Independent candidate A Sumalatha. It is worth a mention here that under Mandya LS segment, there were eight MLAs, three MLCs and three ministers of the JD(S). Challengers Harshavardhan felt that to save the state government, ministers like Puttaraju and H D Revanna should stand by their word and retire from politics. It may be recalled here that Revanna had stated that he would take political sanyas if Narendra Modi was re-elected Prime Minister. Puttaraju also had challenged that he would retire from active politics if Nikhil does not win by a margin of over 2 lakh votes. Harshavardhan opined that if they do not keep their word, people would lose trust in them. Revanna, GTD It is learnt that the alliance government was in no mood to drop either PWD Minister H D Revanna and Higher Education Minister G T Devegowda. Revanna is former PM H D Deve Gowdas favourite son. He ensured his son Prajwals victory in Hassan LS seat. G T Devegowda is Mysuru district strongman. He trounced former CM Siddaramaiah in Chamundeshwari Assembly constituency in May 2018. Kumaraswamy needs a leader to counter Siddaramaiah in Mysuru region. They may be spared, observed a JD(S) spokesperson. The JD(S) may also use a Corporation chairmanship to accommodate a disgruntled legislator. Chairman of D Devaraja Urs Backward Classes Development Corporation K Annadani may be asked to resign. He has invited Kumaraswamys wrath. It must be noted here that Nikhils vote share in Malavalli Assembly constituency represented by Annadani in the LS poll was not along expected lines. Within Congress In Congress, Chamarajanagar district in-charge minister C Puttarangashetty might be dropped. A KPCC member said that Puttarangashetty was a staunch Siddaramaiah follower and a loyal Congressman. He is a suspect in a case in which a large amount of cash was found at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru. If he resigns to make way for others, it will benefit the government, Harshavardan said. The three lady doctors, arrested for allegedly passing casteist slurs and harassing Dr Payal Tadvi leading to her suicide, were on Tuesday sent to police custody for three days. The lady doctors - Dr Bhakti Mehere, Dr Hema Ahuja and Dr Ankita Khandelwal - were arrested by the Agripada police. Amidst tight security arrangements, they were produced before additional sessions judge R M Sadarani on Wednesday, who remanded them to police custody till May 31. Appearing for the family of Dr Tadvi, advocate Nitin Satpute demanded a thorough probe and custodial interrogation in the case. A day after her husband, Dr Salman Tadvi, called for a probe, Satpute said that the autopsy report suggested injuries and, hence, detailed investigation was needed. Advocate Aabad Ponda, who represented the accused, said that the arrested doctors were not even aware of the caste of the victim. IMA for justice Meanwhile, the Indian Medical Association, Maharashtra branch has expressed concern and shock over the incident. "Any doctor's death is an incident of grief and sorrow. It is an unrecoverable loss for the society at large. IMA condemns this incident and strongly demands a detailed inquiry to render justice to late Dr Tadvi," honorary state secretary Dr Suhas Pingle said. Dr Tadvi (26), who was from the Adivasi Tadvi Bhil community, which is a Scheduled Tribe, hailed from Jalgaon. She was found hanging on March 22. Last year, she had obtained admission at the Topiwala National Medical College attached to BYL Nair Hospital. She was facing casteist slurs from the three doctors and was frequently admonished. With annual Amarnath Yatra set to begin from July 1, authorities have decided to retain 300 additional companies of paramilitary forces in Kashmir that were brought in for smooth conduct of recently concluded Lok Sabha polls. 300 additional companies that were deployed across Kashmir for election duties have been retained. They will be deployed for smooth conduct of the pilgrimage and have been provided with the safe accommodation, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) spokesman, Sanjay Sharma told reporters. The nearly two-month-long annual pilgrimage would begin simultaneously on Pahalgam and Baltal routes from July 1 and conclude on Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan festivals on August 15. Union Ministry of Home Affairs had approved the deployment of 300 additional companies of paramilitary forces in Kashmir for the smooth conduct of five-phase LS polls, on the States request. The last phase of the polls in the state ended on May 6. Sources said the decision to retain the additional forces was taken to save time, cut travel expenses and to do away with the risk of getting attacked during transit. Keeping in view the security threat this year, security forces have been given specific responsibility to sanitise routes and secure a select number of pilgrim vehicles by sandwiching them between bulletproof troop carriers, they said. Army would be deployed at the icy heights of holy cave shrine and some places on the twin tracks of Baltal and Chandanwari. The army would also man sensitive points on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and the roads leading from Highway to Nunwan, Pahalgam and Baltal, sources added. J&K Director General of Police Dilbagh Singh said sensitive areas along the yatra route have been sensitised by security personnel. We are done with the yatra preparations. All sensitive areas along the yatra route have been sensitised and security personnel deployed at all the spots where it is needed, he said. In July 2017, militants had attacked yatris in south Kashmirs Anantnag district in which eight pilgrims were killed. On 1 August 2000, more than 30 people, including 21 pilgrims and some Muslims, mainly shopkeepers and porters were killed, when militants attacked the yatra base camp in southern Pahalgam town. Every year, thousands of devotees undertake the yatra between July and August to pay obeisance at the shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located at an altitude of 11,998 feet in south Kashmir Himalayas. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Friday urge the leaders of other BIMSTEC nations to move fast on regional connectivity initiatives beginning with easing coastal shipping and trans-border movement of vehicles. He will also call upon the BIMSTEC leaders to speed up the process of building a regional architecture to take on the menace of terrorism. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) is a bloc comprising seven littoral and landlocked countries dependent on Bay of Bengal for maritime purposes. The leaders of several BIMSTEC nations are likely to visit New Delhi on Thursday to witness Modi being sworn-in for his second term in office of Prime Minister. Modi will have separate bilateral meetings with each of the visiting leaders on Friday. New Delhi is keen to utilize the opportunity to push for early signing of the proposed BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement and the BIMSTEC Motor Vehicle Agreement to boost regional trade within the Bay of Bengal region. The Motor Vehicle Agreement will pave the way for hassle-free movement of cargo and passenger vehicles across borders in the BIMSTEC region that comprises seven nations, including five of the eight SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) members. The Coastal Shipping Agreement will apply to shipping within 20 nautical miles off the coastlines of the BIMSTEC nations and will hence require smaller vessels and involve lesser cost and time. Prime Minister will also request the visiting leaders to ensure that the BIMSTEC Convention on Cooperation in Combating International Terrorism, Transnational Organized Crime and Illicit Drug Trafficking comes into force early, sources told the DH on Tuesday. The convention was signed by the members of the bloc in 2009, but did not come into force as several members delayed ratifying it. With Nepal ratifying the convention ahead of the BIMSTEC summit in Kathmandu in August 2018, the only country yet to do so is Bhutan. Sources, however, said that Thimphu had already assured New Delhi that it would speed up the process of ratifying the convention. New Delhi is also pushing for early signing of the proposed BIMSTEC Convention on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters. If signed, ratified and brought into force, the proposed convention will allow measures to locate, freeze and forfeit or confiscate any funds or finances meant for the financing of all criminal acts in the territory of any of the members of the bloc. The SAARC had also adopted a Convention on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters almost 11 years back. But it is yet to come into force as Pakistan did not ratify the 2008 convention. Irked by Pakistans persistent efforts to block the South Asian nations collective initiatives to fight terrorism and promote connectivity, India has been pushing for regional cooperation through the BIMSTEC since 2016. Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba may be appointed as next Cabinet Secretary, replacing P K Sinha, whose four year tenure comes to an end on June 12, officials said Monday. Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, B V R Subrahmanyam, a 1987 batch IAS officer of Chhattisgarh cadre, seems to be the top contender for the post of union home secretary after Gauba. Gauba, one of the senior most bureaucrats, had served in various capacities in central government as well as in Jharkhand and Bihar governments, is supposed to complete his two-year tenure as home secretary on August 31. In all likelihood, Gauba will be the next Cabinet Secretary, the top post in the country's bureaucracy, an official privy to the development said. If Gauba, a 1982 batch Jharkhand cadre IAS officer, is appointed as cabinet secretary, he will have a fixed two-year tenure, which can be extended for a further two years. Incumbent Sinha was first appointed in 2015 for two years. He got an year's extension in 2017 and again in 2018. Both predecessors of Sinha, Ajit Kumar Seth and K M Chandrasekhar, had also served in the post for four years. Seth, who was appointed by the UPA dispensation in 2011 continued in the post till 2015 after the Narendra Modi government came to power in 2014. As per the government rules, no government servant shall be granted extension in service beyond the age of retirement of 60 years but as per rule FR 56, extension in public interest may be given 'for a period not exceeding four years in the case of Cabinet Secretary'. If Gauba's name is cleared by the Appointment Committee of Cabinet in the new government after it assumes charge on May 30, he will first be appointed as Officer on Special Duty, some time in the first week of June before taking over the charge from Sinha, another official said. In the central government, Gauba had served as secretary in the ministry of urban development, additional secretary in the ministry of home affairs and joint secretary in the ministry of environment. He had also served as chief secretary of Jharkhand, Resident Commissioner of Jharkhand in New Delhi. Before the bifurcation of Bihar, Gauba had also served as district magistrate of the Gaya, Nalanda and Muzaffarpur districts. Gauba had also served as private secretary to then Defence Minister George Fernandes in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. Police arrested a former student leader of Gauhati University for allegedly helping Ulfa (Independent) militants to carry out a grenade blast here on May 15. According to police, Sanjib Talukdar, an M. Phil student now who was the president of Post Graduate Students' Union of Gauhati University in 2016-17, had helped the Ulfa rebels to carry out a recce before carrying out the attack. At least 12 people, including two SSB jawans, were injured in the grenade blast, which targeted a team of security forces in front of a busy shopping mall. Police had earlier arrested five suspected cadres of the banned outfit including television actor Jahnabi Saikia, for their alleged involvement in the attack. Police claimed that Talukdar, who was arrested from his rented house, was in touch with Ulfa (I) top leader Paresh Baruah, who is believed to be taking shelter in an undisclosed location along the Myanmar-China border. Talukdar was produced in a court here on Tuesday, which remanded him to six-day police custody. "We hope to get further details from him during an interrogation. Besides we have information about several others who are in touch with Baruah and helping the outfit to carry out the unlawful activities," a police official said. Ulfa has been carrying out "armed struggle" since 1979 with the demand for a "sovereign Assam". A faction of the outfit led by chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa is in talks with the Centre and in ceasefire since 2010. But Baruah-led Ulfa (I) is against talks without the demand for sovereignty included in the agenda, a condition rejected several times by the government. In October 2018, I remember standing among a tense pool of delegates of the Permanent Representation of the Kingdom of Netherlands and international experts at Palais des Nations in Geneva. The news of the year was just out the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) had just released a Special Report on global warming, describing the dangerous consequences of a 1.5-degree Celsius rise in average global temperature. Against this backdrop, the discussion moved towards understanding the humanitarian implications of climate change and of requiring a global response to the striking numbers of approximately 140 million climate refugees worldwide. The framing of the climate refugee phenomenon as nuanced and relatively new appears to put policymakers in a puddle. This is because the discussions conveniently revolve around the international refugee law rhetoric. The paradox of State sovereignty and the protection of refugees as addressed by the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1951 (hereafter, the Convention) is essentially State-centric. We understand refugees as an obstruction to State sovereignty and security, as per the Conventions traditionalist stance of interpreting the letter of the law as it is. The Conventions exhaustive grounds of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group and political opinion leave behind no room for the legal recognition of climate refugees. Additionally, the fact that climate refugees do not appear to face a fear of persecution from the State as mandated by the Convention enables their exclusion from it. The discussion progresses little beyond this reasoning and the case for legalising climate refugees is a lost cause. Although the principle of complementary protection aims to extend the fundamental refugee law principle of not forcing refugees to return to a country where they are likely to face persecution (non-refoulement) to grounds beyond the Conventions, its application is largely left to the discretion of states interpretation. The crux of the problem has less to do with advocating for the Conventions recognition of climate refugees and more with how the current rhetoric shapes the approach of domestic jurisdictions in formulating their refugee laws and policies. For instance, the Pacific Island nations have been in the spotlight for extreme weather changes and rising sea levels that pose an imminent threat to the livelihoods of inhabitants. Food insecurity, unemployment and disruption of daily lives have pushed islanders from Kiribati and Tuvalu to seek refuge in New Zealand and Australia. One such case appeared before the New Zealand Immigration and Protection Tribunal. The Tribunals judgement presents the perils of the current approach towards climate refugees. In refusing the application, the Tribunal held: while the environmental conditions in Kiribati can involve significant human rights issues, the claimant must still establish that they meet the legal criteria set out in the Refugee Convention, and have sufficient nexus to a Convention ground. It is pertinent to observe that the rights that are to be protected in this case are similar to the rights of other groups of refugees. But, for reasons of the current legal inadequacies in refugee law, climate refugees are seen as voluntary economic migrants that are not fleeing persecution. Closer home, the phenomenon can be traced to several gradual environmental changes and natural disasters. Frequent floods, droughts, earthquakes, rising sea levels accelerate the need for countries to formulate comprehensive schemes of rehabilitation and resilience to the human impacts of climate change. In 2017, weather-related disasters affected around 40 million people in Bangladesh, Nepal and India alone. One such crisis is the issue of climate adaptation in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region that requires concerted efforts to rehabilitate several settlements whose livelihoods are currently being displaced. HKH spans across Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Nepal, China, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar and comprises one of the worlds most vulnerable ecosystems. HKH has been a reservoir of natural resources and a significant source of livelihood for millions. In recent years, HKH is experiencing global warming at alarming levels and this has been highlighted by the IPCC. Food insecurity as an outcome of global warming is the most emergent reason for displacement of mountain settlements. While most displacement in the region has historically been within countries and in the quest for rebuilding homes in similarly situated environments, we can well anticipate environmental stresses forcing people to move out of their countries. Indeed, there is an increasing trend of South-South migration in the region. India has a history of admitting refugees from these countries, but without a discernible legal approach. India has not ratified the Convention and its 1967 Protocol, but in the past has adopted the principle of non-refoulement in its approach of admitting refugees. However, its policies toward refugee groups have often been in the nature of isolated and reactionary responses. In the realm of climate refugees, there is no precedence of acknowledgement by India so far. None of the relevant laws, such as as the Foreigners Act, 1946, Passports Act, 1967, the Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunal) Act, 1983, or the proposed Citizenship Amendment Bill reflect a complete picture on where we stand on taking in refugees. Nonetheless, the global communitys expansion of the dialogue to environmental grounds in the Global Compact for Migration, 2018, and the Global Compact on Refugees, 2018, is a sign of optimism, specifically for India as it has adopted both these instruments. While both the compacts are soft-law instruments, they still provide guidance on a transnational approach that domestic legal orders can adopt in the furtherance of international goals. In light of this development, it is exciting to note the future of Indias legal policy on refugees. Adaptation to climate change requires a bottom-up legal response, originating from the domestic level. It is imperative to view environmental issues from the legal prism of other disciplines, in this case through refugee law. (The writer is an environmental and energy lawyer/activist currently pursuing a PhD in International Law at the Graduate Institute, Geneva) 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. SPRINGFIELD U.S. Army Capt. William G. Bill Chandler was on his second tour in Vietnam when he was killed in combat on Aug. 11, 1972, while serving as an intelligence adviser to Army of the Republic of Vietnam Regional Forces. He was three months shy of his 25th birthday. Chandlers grand plan of buying a house and filling it with children gave him and Bonnie Chandler-Warren, his devoted wife of four years, something to hold on to during their time apart. The couple was already parents to two beautiful daughters 3-year-old Samantha and 3-month-old Abigail, both born with their dads trademark grin. This wasnt supposed to happen, Bonnie told the two uniformed soldiers tasked with breaking the news that she was a young widow. He wasnt in combat. He went as an adviser. Tell me, how this could happen? And later, when sympathy flowers arrived from her college roommate, Bonnie couldnt breathe. They reminded her too much of the box of two dozen roses shed opened two weeks earlier a final gift from her husband on her 24th birthday, which also was the last time they spoke. Happy birthday, Kitten, Chandler wished his wife during an unexpected phone call from Saigon the night of her birthday. As Bonnie rambled on, she quickly realized the call had been disconnected. Bill, are you there? Bill! Bill! Dammit! Dammit to hell, Bonnie wrote in an unfinished memoir. I hung up, waited, watching the phone attached to the kitchen wall, willing it to ring. I hadnt even said good-bye. Legacy of love It was an especially emotional moment for Samantha Chandler on Monday as she read her fathers name aloud during the townships Memorial Day observance. As she and her aunt Holly Cook, Chandlers youngest of three siblings, read the names of each of the 42 township sons killed in either World War II, Korea, Vietnam or Iraq, retired Springfield Police Lt. William Clark sounded a bell. For Bonnie and her three daughters, including Meredith Ehlers from a second marriage, who traveled across country from their homes in Washington, it was a bittersweet welcome as the Springfield American Legion Post 227 honored Chandler nearly 47 years after his death. Holly and her husband, Tim, drove in from New Hampshire. Four fellow Army captains who served with Chandler John Haseman, Mike Delaney, Brian Valiton and Ed Blankenhagen were also in attendance. Family and friends walked in a mile-long parade, led by a Legion color guard and featuring the Springfield High School Band and apparatus from the Springfield Fire Co. The parade began at Memorial Park and ended at the Springfield Township Building, drawing an estimated 250 spectators along the route. An outside ceremony included a brief prayer, a rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, Taps and a gun salute. There was also a wreath-laying at the townships memorial by Chandlers two grandsons, Tristan and his namesake William. Today is Capt. Chandlers day, but its about all our fallen, too, reminded U.S. Army Col. Richard Debany, whose keynote speech inside the township building shared a glimpse into Chandlers life as a reel of photographs of him from infancy to adulthood flashed in the background. We dont just remember those killed on the battlefield on this day. We also honor their survivors; those that had to find the resilience to continue. They had to live on, first in pain and grief, then in loss and sadness. They have to live with the cancelled plans, the memories never made, said Debany. Like Bonnie, they had to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives and figure out how to live again. Gold Star families have a special place in our society. Along with those who died, they too paid the tab for our security, our peace, and our nations policies whether they personally agreed with them or not. Chasing Adventure Chandler spent his childhood in a brick home on Longview Drive. He attended Sabold Elementary and Springfield Junior High schools before he graduated from Springfield High School in 1965. Target shooting with rifle and pistol was his passion, and he was good at it. He loved animals, and enjoyed music and photography. He was 12 when his father, William, a World War II veteran, suffered a fatal heart attack, leaving his mother, Jayne, alone to raise him and his three siblings, Cherie, Chris and Holly. A graphic designer with a can-do attitude, Jayne Chandler started her own advertising agency, designing ads and promotional materials for Breck Shampoo, Hershey and other familiar businesses. She also prepared Springfield Townships annual report. Much like her own parents, Jayne Chandler, who died in 1998, encouraged her own children to be bold and independent. Jaynes teachings resonated with her kids including Bill, according to an extensive narrative authored by Debany on the American Legion Post 227 of Springfields website celebrating Chandlers life and legacy. Described as social and likable, Chandler had many friends. He was always up for an adventure, often letting his mischievous side show. Childhood friends like John Bean, and high school schoolmates like Lenda Gray and Kae Kalwaic, recalled his sense of humor Monday as they joined in Mondays ceremony. He was just fun, said Kalwaic, noting that on their commencement program she wrote that she would always remember graduation night because Bill and his friends kept her laughing all evening. After high school, Chandler joined a crew of a tanker ship from the Port of Marcus Hook, chasing adventure as a merchant marine for about two. He then enrolled at Millersville State College for a short time. When he decided hed rather volunteer for military service than be drafted, he enlisted in the Army in January 1967. After a year of training at Fort Bragg, N.C., and advanced infantry training at Fort Ord in California, he attended Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning in Georgia. Then in January 1968 he was commissioned a second lieutenant in the infantry and assigned to Fort Lewis, near Tacoma, Wash., where he served as a counter insurgency/counter guerrilla warfare instructor. Strangers are just friends waiting to happen It was the first weekend of March 1968 when a sophomore at the University of Pugent Sound named Bonnie Monk got a phone call from a friend and fellow student who worked as switchboard operator for the campus. Her friend said she had a boy named Bill on the phone who had three friends and they were looking for dates, wrote Debany. Im sure bemused and quite curious, Bonnie found three girlfriends and went on a quadruple blind date with Bill Chandler and his lieutenant buddies from nearby Fort Lewis. Bonnie, in a recent telephone interview, said she knew pretty quickly that Chandler was the guy for her. Not only did they share a passion for poet, songwriter and actor Rod McKuen among whose famous quotes is Strangers are just friends waiting to happen he was also very devoted to his mother. Five months later, on Aug. 2, 1968, William and Bonnie Chandler married at Fort Lewis Evergreen Chapel, complete with saber arch salute to the newlyweds. By October, Chandler received his orders to Vietnam. Bonnie withdrew from her education studies at Pugent Sound, and they drove across country to Pennsylvania. Chandler moved his wife in with his mother and youngest sister, Holly, in Springfield. After a month of leave, two weeks of jungle warfare school in Panama, and another few days with Bonnie, now several months pregnant, Bill departed for his first tour in Vietnam on Dec. 19, 1968, wrote Debany. Chandlers inaugural arrival in country was during the regions dry season. He was assigned as a platoon leader in the 6th Battalion, 32st Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, at a fire support base, located 4 miles from Dong Tam in the Mekong Delta. According to Debany, as an infantry platoon leader in a rifle company, Chandler would have been leading about 35 enlisted men. He and his platoon sergeant would have led their platoon on offensive and defensive operations from their firebase, usually as part of a larger company or battalion-sized operation, the colonel wrote. After only about a month in the 6th Battalion, on Jan. 15, 1969, the same day he was promoted to first lieutenant, Chandler was wounded, suffering shrapnel to his left arm from a booby trap. When his wound was assessed as significant and requiring a long recovery, Chandler was returned to the United States for treatment at Valley Forge General Hospital in Phoenixville, a mere 45-minute drive from his very-pregnant wife. When Bonnie went into labor at Delaware County Memorial Hospital, dad was there on Feb. 16 to welcome baby Samantha. Because of his injury, Chandlers tour was curtailed and he did not have to return to Vietnam. Instead, he was ordered back to Fort Lewis. During the year his family was at Fort Lewis, Chandler was promoted to captain. Although he wasnt pursuing a career in the military (he jokingly said to Bonnie in a letter that he wanted to have 25 kids and raise dogs as a living) he did want to eventually become a field grade officer and maybe have an assignment for their family in Europe, wrote Debany. In anticipation of interesting and intellectually stimulating assignments that did not involve walking through rice paddies, Chandler transferred from infantry to military intelligence. The transfer meant a reassignment from Fort Lewis to the Defense Intelligence Agency with duty at the Pentagon. But beforehand, Chandler attended MI training for several months in the spring and summer of 1970 at Fort Holabird in Baltimore, Md. The family then moved to Hillcrest Heights, Md., southeast of Washington, D.C., for his assignment with the DIA. As much as the Chandler family enjoyed their time in Baltimore, especially frequent trips to the beach, they disliked Hillcrest Heights. Chandler, too, found that he did not enjoy his work at the DIA, and sought something away from the D.C. area. Additionally, he wanted to be promoted to major and believed, probably rightly, that he needed the experience and credit of a full combat tour to be on par, competitively, with his peers. Finally, he made the reasonable prediction that, if sent to Vietnam as an MI officer, hed likely serve on a staff in a battalion or brigade headquarters rather than have a direct combat role like he did as an infantry platoon leader, wrote Debany. A soldiers thoughts With Bonnie and Samantha settled close to her parents in Spokane, Wash., Chandler began his second tour on Jan. 26, 1972. Arriving in Vietnam in an environment of rapidly decreasing U.S. forces, Bill was assigned to the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, known as MACV, Debany told Mondays crowd. As advisor to MACVs Advisory Team 88, which was led by civilian Albert Kotzebue, Chandler provided intelligence support. As a member of the provincial rather than a district team, Chandler lived and worked at teams headquarters at its compound. Kotzebue snapped a precious photograph of Chandler, taken just a few hours before he left the Ham Long compound for beleaguered Tan Loi village with the relief force that fateful day in early August. The photo showed Chandler sitting on his helmet, holding the handset to what Debany would describe nearly 47 years later as undoubtedly his most important weapon at the time his AN/PRC-77 radio on the ground next to him. Hes geared up for combat with two smoke grenades hanging from his load carrying equipment suspenders and a bandolier of ammunition visible around his chest. His 9th Infantry Division patch on his right shoulder indicating he wasnt new to the Delta and knew the dangers ahead. Despite his sunglasses, you can see he has a resigned expression on his face; he seems to have accepted the days turn of events that brought him to Ham Long though Im sure its now what he expected when he woke up that morning, noted Debany. His head is slightly turned to the right and he has a pondering gaze into the distance. With the wedding ring placed on his ring finger by Bonnie clearly visible, one can only guess at his thoughts that moment. It was late afternoon when the relief force, two battalions in strength, set off for Tan Loi. As the lone advisor, Chandler was with the headquarters element, surely with Ham Longs district chief on the planned 8 kilometer tactical movement to make contact with the enemy at Tan Loi. About a kilometer out of the compound, just after crossing the little Tre Bong bridge, the force was ambushed from the cover of trees. There must have been a terrible cacophony of noise and confusion as the relief force was attacked with intense small arms, mortar and rocket fire, and then returned fire with equal ferocity, said Debany. At approximately 5 p.m., Bonnies, Samanthas, and Abigails lives were shattered along with an exploding mortar round that instantly killed 24-year-old Bill husband, father, son, brother and friend to many. One long, final kiss While Bonnie stopped short of describing her first love as a pacifist, she said Chandlers views of the war had changed. When he went in as an adviser, he no longer believed in the cause, she said. He went in as an adviser so he didnt have to go into the rice paddies to secure our future. Much like the sun-kissed sky on Monday, Bonnie recalled lying in grass watching the sunlight flicker through the Lombardy poplars that life-altering Sunday afternoon in August 1972. With their 3-month old daughter who needed to be held or rocked after every feeding and only swaying in moms arms soothed her, and her precocious, energetic, 3-year-old chatterbox sister who needed cousins to entertain her, Bonnie had decided to pack up the crib, diapers, dog, dolls and water toys the day before and drove to her parents farm. The farm was the touchstone of my life, the only home I knew until college and marriage, reads a portion of her memoir. Six weeks earlier, her husband had taken leave to meet Abigail. Having been somewhere on the Mekong Delta when she was born, on May 16, 1972, it was a blessed visit for them. While the community gathered for grilled steaks, fresh picked corn on the cob and apple pie on the Fourth of July, Chandler told his wife he had seen enough fireworks, and their little family escaped into the Colville National Forest. As they slept, we snuggled under the night sky, watching satellites passing through the Milky Way. We made plans to be alone in Hawaii. His 25th birthday was three months away and I vowed to lose more baby weight and be bikini ready. He was disillusioned about the pointless way and wanted to get out of the Army when his tour ended, finish his college degree. We discussed options of where we would settle down. East Coast near his mother? West Coast near my parents? Bonnie shared in her writing. He declared that was no hurry, for when he came home, when he became a civilian, when the war was over, we would have all the time in the world. A week later, Chandler was boarding a plane back to Vietnam. Be brave, Kitten, he said to Bonnie. I will, she promised as his hazel eyes and Cupids bow grin seared her heart. For the last time, they hugged and kissed. Both Bonnie who was widowed a second time in 2017 by the passing her husband, Larry Warren, a pastor in the United Methodist Church and Holly were pleased by Chandlers recognition by his hometown. Bonnie, whose familiarity with grief helped to motivate her to earn a Master of Divinity Degree in 1987, recently listened to some old cassette tapes she had received from her first husband during his tours of duty, instead of letters. What I heard was a very pragmatic, conscientious, committed man who wanted to make a good life for me and our children, she said. By Tom Buglio Times Guest Columnist As President Trump acts more and more like the autocrats he admires and calls on the attorney general to head an investigation into the Mueller probe to prove its illegitimacy and attack his political foes, the U.S. House struggles with the question: to impeach or not? Currently, Speaker Nancy Pelosi has resisted the growing tide of calls from Democrats in the House to open impeachment hearings. Arguments against impeachment are prudent: 1) the majority of the country is against it. 2) If impeached by the House, the Senate controlled by Republicans would never convict and remove Trump from office. 3) Impeachment proceedings will rally Trumps base and divide our country even more 4) The best way to remove Trump from office is to beat him in the next election. However, there are many reasons to start impeachment hearings now. Trumps repeated attacks on the press, on Latino immigrants, and his Muslim ban are just a few examples of the damage he has wrought on American values and the constitution. His absurd defense of Putin in Helsinki over American intelligence concerning Russian involvement in the 2016 effort to help elect Trump is an unprecedented example of an American president openly favoring a foreign adversary. The Mueller report, which few Republicans or Americans have even bothered to read, detailed the many attempts by Trumps campaign to take information damaging to the Clinton campaign from a foreign source. More importantly, there are 11 instances of obstruction of justice detailed in Part 2 of the report that would have brought indictments against Trump if he was not the president. It is the responsibility of the US Congress to check the corrupt excesses of this president. * The Congress must defend the Constitution when it is being attacked. * When Watergate started only 21% of Americans felt impeachment was appropriate. * The American people need impeachment hearings to understand the depth of Trumps corruption. * Trumps obsession with Impeachment will slow down his other destructive actions As Trump defies every House subpoena request for information or testimony from Don McGahn and others, impeachment proceedings may become inevitable. Rep. Joaquin Castro may have summed it best..There is political risk in doing so, but theres a greater risk to our country in doing nothing. This is a fight for our democracy. Ultimately, we as Americans face the question of whether we want to continue to tolerate the most dishonest and corrupt President in our history. Do we have the will to do the right thing and remove him from office? I hope so. It would be difficult to accurately calculate the impact women have had on American history and governance in the 100 years since the Constitution was amended to allow women the right to vote. But its hard to imagine the world we live in today without it. This month marks 100 years since the House voted in favor of that amendment, 304-90. That was a significant step toward the eventual ratification of the 19th Amendment. Todays House members marked the milestone last week by noting that the body currently contains 127 women, which is a record. Various studies have attempted to show what women have brought to Congress in terms of trends and legislation. Thats difficult to do, considering women representatives tend to be as diverse in political thought as their male counterparts. However, it may safely be said that they have brought to the fore legislation concerning matters of importance to women, which previously had been ignored by men. Also, they seem to be more effective legislators, passing a higher percentage of their bills than their male counterparts. More importantly, they effectively represent the people of their districts, male and female. Utahns always have had a hard time imagining a democratic system that excludes women. As a territory, Deseret granted women the right to vote in 1870, just ahead of Wyoming. That is a stunning fact little known in the rest of the nation, especially given attitudes in a nation that then was less than 100 years old. A schoolteacher by the name of Seraph Young was the first woman to cast a ballot on Feb. 14 of that year. At the time, the rest of the nation hadnt caught up to Utahs enlightened views on the subject, and too many critics tied it to fears of polygamy. Congress forced the territory to abandon womens suffrage, but the newly formed state of Utah reinstated it in its constitution in 1896. Later that year, Utah made Martha Hughes Cannon the first female member of the state Senate. With such an illustrious and enviable background, its too bad Utah has fallen behind other states in terms of female representation, not only in Congress but in the state Legislature. Currently, six members of the state Senate and 19 members of the House are female, comprising only 24 percent of the whole. This is well behind neighboring Nevada, where more than half the Legislature is female, and it lags the national average of 28.7 percent. Were not much interested in quotas. Utahns should elect the best representatives possible, whether male or female. But the energy that pushed 19th century Utah women to the forefront of women in politics seems to have waned, and we have no doubt many capable and successful women are not considering public service or politics. This may be a symptom of an overall lag in political participation. Utah has seen a slide in voter turnout through the years, notwithstanding a surge in the 2018 elections. That may have been more of a reflection of some eye-catching ballot initiatives, including one to legalize medical marijuana, than of any deep and considered involvement in political matters. A century after women gained a foothold in American politics, there is much to celebrate and much yet to be accomplished. The best news, of course, is that government today is more representative of the people it serves. But that representation will only be as good as the people who agree to step up and run. In a recent guest opinion piece in the Deseret News (April 23), Peter Bradford opened the door to a discussion on the small modular reactor project being developed by Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems, or UAMPS, in partnership with Oregon-based NuScale Power. This new nuclear facility is at the heart of UAMPS Carbon Free Power Project. Unfortunately, by erroneously comparing the CFPP to dissimilar projects, Bradford focused on what the CFPP is not, rather than focusing on what the CFPP actually is. Heres the reality: 1. Communities need reliable carbon-free power: Bradford alluded to the fact that there are alternative carbon-free power sources that UAMPS should consider above nuclear energy. In so doing, he overlooks the reality that our communities need a steady power source that is available to meet their energy load at any time power is needed. While UAMPS has renewable energy assets, their variability presents a unique challenge to our members responsibility to provide reliable power at all times to their residents. Small modular reactors are very efficient at picking up energy load when either the sun or wind is unavailable. Indeed, through a combination of renewables and nuclear energy, the CFPP is providing UAMPS members a realistic pathway to decarbonizing their resource mix. 2. Small reactors are cost-competitive: Bradford claimed that small modular reactors are not cost-competitive and further asserted that natural gas should not be used to evaluate comparative cost. That argument doesnt hold up, especially since a report reviewed by Bradford himself and published by the Union of Concerned Scientists stated that multiple-reactor plants have greater economies of scale. In fact, cost was a significant reason why UAMPS settled on NuScales reactor design. Contrary to the assertions, UAMPS is acutely aware of the shortcomings of larger, traditional nuclear plants and is taking every step to avoid their fate. First, the individual modular reactor units that make up the NuScale reactor will be constructed in a factory and assembled on site. This alone will reduce both construction and capital costs associated with traditional nuclear plants. Second, with a cost range of $45 to $60 MWh, advanced nuclear remains cost-competitive with other baseload power supplies like natural gas but without greenhouse gas emissions. Lastly, our members owe it to their residents to produce cost-competitive power now and into the future. As states in the region and around the nation aggressively move toward carbon-free energy standards, available carbon-free energy sources like nuclear energy will only become more cost-competitive. 3. This is a first-of-a-kind licensing success: Bradford argued that designs like the NuScale reactor are not realistic and are usually abandoned in the licensing stage. The reality is NuScales own design certification application is ahead of schedule. As a former commissioner of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, surely Bradford is aware of how remarkable this is and should be applauding UAMPS and NuScale for a job well done. It is unfortunate that Bradford came all the way to Utah in February to join other anti-nuclear energy advocates in attacking UAMPS Carbon Free Power Project on the same day of its educational public meeting. Had he attended, he could have joined the public and policy makers in actually learning what the CFPP is, rather than speculating about what the CFPP is not. The reality is that the United States derives 60 percent of its carbon-free power from nuclear energy. This, in addition to the need for a power source that can support a growing Utah and national economy, should make every American interested in the success of projects like UAMPS Carbon Free Power Project. Correction: An earlier version incorrectly identified the Nuclear Regulatory Commission as the National Regulatory Commission. Editor's note: A version of this has been previously published on the author's website. Spring is the best season for astronomy, as far as Im concerned, because this is when some amazing and reasonably close galaxies are abundant, as seen from Earths night-side. Galaxies are my favorite targets out there in deep space. And new moon is the best time for viewing them because at other phases the glare from our orbiting spotlight can overwhelm their details. The most prominent group of galaxies in springtime is the Virgo Cluster, approximately 2,000 galaxies averaging 65 million light-years away. On Friday, May 3, the day before the moon was completely dark, I packed for the drive to Pit n Pole, a favorite site in Tooele County. I hoped to make photos of several of the Virgo Cluster, particularly the beauty called Messier 61, a barred spiral with interesting splits and crooks in the arms. I was especially anxious to take the photos because, for one reason or another, I had been deterred from a spring galaxy expedition for many years. This April, when the cluster also was in a good position, I was devastated by the death due to cancer of our much-loved and extremely loving friend, Betsy, our orange tabby cat of 14 years. I was nearly paralyzed with grief. This month I haven't felt much better but I thought I should try to resume a normal life. Packing the Jeep required an ugly load of sweaty work. Since November, road crews have been digging up the street in front of our house for a seemingly endless resurfacing project. They brought in huge banging machinery to break up the old surface, gouged trenches, spread concrete, shoveled, and rumbled and rattled and jiggled our home. That Friday we couldn't drive on the street because, while the south side was paved with new cement, our side was a deep flat gully with cuts too steep and high for cars or hand trucks. We parked at the nearest spots, down the street and around the corner. A round trip from home to vehicle is about a third of a mile. This meant that my gear had to be moved by hand truck pushed along the sidewalk. Meanwhile, crews were sawing concrete on our side (adjusting a manhole) and sealing cracks with tar on the other. Billowing fumes from the asphalt melting cart and clouds of concrete dust were unavoidable. I wore a protective respirator, a filter mask over my nose and mouth good enough to shield against "non-harmful sanding, grinding, sawing and insulating particles." Even so, toxic-smelling fumes penetrated. Maybe they leaked around the edges, where I didn't have the mask sealed tightly enough. A portable astrophoto observatory requires a lot of equipment. Some of it, like the telescope, tripod, wedge and car battery, are too heavy to carry by hand at all. The rest becomes heavy after, say, 30 yards. But our hand truck can't hold much, which meant I made many tiresome treks to the Jeep, hauling tripod after electrical bag after sponge mat after table after.... I finished just in time to shower and rest a while before taking off for Tooele County. By the end of the day my iPhone pegged my walking, which included setting up in the desert, at 4 1/2 miles. Plowing along the old Pony Express Trail, I happily glanced into a side mirror and watched the dust fly. When I arrived at Pit n Pole the tire pressure indicator lit up on the dashboard. I wasn't concerned, much, as that happens sometimes with a change in temperature. (But that's when the temperature drops, went a nagging thought, not when it's as warm as today.) I was tired from all that toting and took many breaks while assembling my station. When I hoisted Baby, the telescope, from a table onto the tripod and wedge, I had a tougher time than usual. I don't know whether that's because of my weariness from hauling and loading the Jeep or if, at 73, I've lost some strength. While I was setting up, a nice fellow from the Utah Valley Astronomy Association drove up and began aligning his Dobsonian telescope; I remember his name as Jeremy Jackson. Ordinarily, Pit n Pole is a good spot for astronomy, far enough from Salt Lake Valley to present little light pollution; a desert site, but not filled with powdery dust like Lakeside; not buzzing with off-road vehicles like Knolls; not too far like the Wedge Overlook. Its biggest flaw is that during moist periods it tends to accumulate dew, but that night's dew point was predicted as below the expected low temperature. Night fell and my agenda was progressing well. Cloud banks hung around but weren't directly overhead. I used the newly revamped focuser (new motor) to bring the stars to sharpness. Jeremy let me peer through his telescope at M51, the Whirlpool Galaxy, and the globular cluster M22. He showed me a photo he had just taken of another galaxy too. The night turned bitterly cold and breezy. Finally all was working and I instructed the tracking program to calibrate. It couldn't. In fact, the image was no longer coming through the tracking camera. Baffled, I shone a light on the front of the 'scope and saw that the outer optical unit, the corrector plate, was a solid sheet of frost. Not only was the night colder than the dew point, but the dew had frozen. It was on most of my other gear too. I had no choice but to call it a night. I put my laptop and camera in the Jeep, crawled into the rear and tried to sleep. In the morning everything dried out quickly. The frost evaporated from the corrector plate and I lightly brushed it with a camel's-hair brush to get rid of dust. Then I dragged myself around and refocused the finder scope, realigned it and trained the gears. My tired legs ached. I packed and started off. The warning light was still on. I checked the tires the right rear one was low. I decided to look again when I reached the paved road before making up my mind whether to call a tow truck. I kept watching the odometer, which crept along: Would I have a blowout? Six miles to the pavement; five; halfway there. At the Faust Junction, where the old Pony Express Trail meets Utah 36, the tire looked about the same and I decided to drive into Tooele and find a Discount Tire outlet we bought our tires at Discount, which guarantees them in case of road damage. Again the odometer crawled. Parked in Tooele, I consulted my iPhone: no Discount Tire in town. The nearest was 19 miles away, while ours was 26. Go for South Salt Lake, I concluded. Luckily, I-80 East was diverted most of the way and I couldn't speed along at 75 mph. Instead, the detour followed a slower route. At Discount, all four tires showed enough wear to need replacing. They are supposed to hold 35 pounds of air pressure per square inch. The right rear came in at 6. I had all four replaced. SALT LAKE CITY By the time lunchtime rolled around, Quinten Salt only had one vial of mosquito larvae in his pocket. That was a lower number than usual but not surprising considering recent weather conditions. The wetter- and colder-than-usual spring has made it difficult for local mosquito abatement districts to collect and test larvae ahead of peak mosquito season, according to Salt, the rural field supervisor for the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District. But the unusually wet spring will also likely mean more adult mosquitoes in the air this summer compared to last summer, local experts say. "Weve got all the ingredients for a good mosquito year," Salt said. That's where abatement districts come in. The Salt Lake district, which includes both rural and developed urban land, has a wide range of methods for collecting mosquito larvae, which are then sent to a lab, analyzed and entered into a database. The information helps the district determine which kinds of mosquitoes are living where, what their behavior will be like, and the best way to administer mosquito-specific pesticide to the larvae. Salt's rural team rides ATVs across the wetlands west of the city, wading through flooding and dipping a ladle-like tool into the water to search for larvae. Meanwhile, the urban teams inspect tree cavities, abandoned pools, street drains and other potential breeding sites in the city. The cold weather has made it harder for Salt and his team to find and collect larvae. On a typical morning, it's not unheard of to collect seven or eight samples; on Monday morning, Salt collected one. "The mosquitoes are cold right now," Salt said. "But right about now we should see them ramping up." The large amount of rain has meant fewer mosquitoes hatching than usual so far, as mosquito larvae require stagnant, still water. But the rain also translates to more bodies of water for the insects to breed. "In years like this where we have a lot of standing water, we get new habitats that are going to form that we may not have been aware of previously," district manager Ary Faraji said. To make matters even wetter, there have been nearly 700 inches of snowfall in the mountains this year and eventually, it's going to melt. "Were planning for one of our busier seasons right now," Faraji said. Gary Hatch, manager of the Davis County abatement district, said that once the temperature goes up and the water settles down, he expects the region to see more mosquitoes than it saw at the same time last year. "Mosquito development-wise, it's a little slower right now than what wed normally see this time of year," Hatch said. "I think once it starts to heat up a little more and the rains kind of subsided a little bit, we will definitely be having huge numbers of mosquitoes hatching." Davis County residents should expect an increase in mosquitoes that bite during the daytime, especially in the coming weeks, Hatch said. There are some basic steps Utahns can take to protect against mosquitoes and the diseases they may carry as West Nile Virus season approaches, according to Rebecca Ward, a health educator with the Utah Department of Health's Bureau of Epidemiology. "The best thing anybody could do is avoid areas where mosquitoes reside," Ward said. "But thats not always possible, especially in the summertime." If you do venture outside, Ward recommends making yourself aware of peak mosquito exposure times, wearing a long shirt, long pants, shoes that cover your feet if possible, and using insect repellent. She also suggests getting rid of any standing water outside your home, such as water in a bird bath or water that has accumulated in an old tire. People with ornamental ponds in Davis County can call the abatement district to have specially bred mosquito-eating fish delivered to their pond for free, Hatch said. As mosquito season enters full swing, any Salt Lake City residents with knowledge of a possible breeding habitat are asked to contact the Salt Lake City abatement district. "Its always safer to give us a call and let us know about a potential habitat so we can pay attention and respond to it before those mosquitoes are on the wing and biting people," Faraji said. SALT LAKE CITY Heres a look at the news for May 28. Rural police departments struggle to attract officers. This new Utah-based program offers a potential solution. From gridiron to journalist to pulpit, Vai Sikahema accepts another big challenge Utah ranked in the top 10 states for online safety for kids. Here's why Rock On: BYU simply must go back to the Potato Bowl for THIS Her editor initially rejected it. Now this Utah author's Pinocchio-inspired tale is getting its own series Evidence ties uncle to missing 5-year-old Utah girl, police say A look at our business coverage: How a Utah startup is trying to launch a 'small but smart' tiny house movement Above average rain impacting Utah farmers Utah's Nuvi acquires local health care social media startup 'Prodigy' founder taking Utah's Teal Drones to unexplored heights First wave of new outdoor gear design pros from USU finding early success A look at our top-read stories: 'Jeopardy!' champion James Holzhauer almost lost $35,000 over question about Idaho This Utah couple took 'family' photos with their car's supercharger after being asked to have kids How a new Latter-day Saint program is helping Pacific Islanders fight diabetes What you can do to reduce deaths, injuries from teen driver crashes this summer News from the U.S. and world: 80,000 without power, but no deaths reported from Ohio tornado | ABC News Europes centrists lose majority in EU elections, Brexit Party surges | NY Post Prison fighting leaves at least 55 dead in northern Brazil | The New York Times Iran hits out at U.S. after Trump nuclear weapons comment | Al Jazeera Election puts Europe on the front line of the battle with populism | The New York Times SALT LAKE CITY The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Free Fishing Day is set for Saturday, June 8, meaning anyone can fish at any public body of water in the state without a license. Because you dont need a license to fish that day, its the perfect time to take someone fishing with you and introduce them to the sport, Randy Oplinger, sport fisheries coordinator for the division, said in a statement. And, early June is one of the best times to fish in Utah. All of the fish in the state, both warm-water and cold-water fish, are active and willing to bite this time of the year. For those who dont have fishing equipment or would like some fishing tips, they can check out of one of six DWR fishing events across the state: Smith Park Pond, 2500 W. 4000 North, Farr West, Weber County, 8 a.m. to noon. Fishing poles and tackle will be provided. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen. While the event is free, please register at eventbrite.com and search for "free fishing day" and "Utah." For more information, email ericasavage@utah.gov or call. 385-515-6447. Bountiful Pond, 1275 W. 1600 North, Woods Cross, 10 a.m. to noon. DWR conservation officers and Wood Cross police will help beginning anglers bait hooks and catch fish. Free pizza and prizes. The DWR will have a few on rods and reels on hand for people to borrow. Lower Stillwater Pond, Forest Road 134, Hanna, Duchesne County, 9 a.m. to noon. The Blue Ribbon Fishery includes several ponds with a variety of fish. The event will include a fishing derby for kids, snacks, prizes, education clinics, a visit from Smokey Bear and a demonstration on how fish are stocked in ponds. To get to the pond, drive north on state Route 87 from Duchesne and turn left onto 21000 West and then continue on that road into Mountain Home. Then, turn left onto 6750 North/Rock Creek Road, which turns into forest Road 134. Follow to the pond. For more information, email vfiorelli@utah.gov or call 435-828-0008. While the event is free, please register at eventbrite.com and search for "free fishing day" and "Utah." Moose Pond, Manila, Daggett County, 9 a.m. to noon. The event will include a fishing derby for kids, snacks, prizes, education clinics and a visit from Smokey Bear. Moose Pond is located at about mile 8 off of the Flaming Gorge-Uintas National Scenic Byway about 19 miles south of Manila. For more information email vfiorelli@utah.gov or call 435-828-0008. While the event is free, please register at eventbrite.com and search for "free fishing day" and "Utah." Bristlecone Pond, Brian Head, Iron County, 9 a.m. to noon. The event, geared toward beginning anglers, will include fishing rods, tackle, bait, lunch and a drawing with prizes. For more information, email heathertalley@utah.gov or call 435-868-8756. While the event is free, register at eventbrite.com and search for "free fishing day" and "Utah." Little Reservoir, Beaver, 9 a.m. to noon. This workshop will include information about fishing rules and regulations and the different fish species found in the area. Fishing equipment will also be available, as will lunch and a drawing with prizes. To get to Little Reservoir from Beaver, travel east on state Route 153 for 10 miles. Turn right on Kents Lake Road for 0.8 miles. For more information, email blainecox@utah.gov or call 435-559-0798. While the event is free, register at eventbrite.com and search for "free fishing day" and "Utah." UTAH STATE PRISON Two men who have served lengthy prison sentences for separate murders have each been granted parole. But while one man will still serve a few more years in the Utah State Prison before being released, another has already been turned over to immigration officials. Eugene Bisner, now 40, has been granted a parole date of April 2, 2024, "contingent upon his completion of required therapy and compliance with his case action plan," according to the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole. On Jan. 6, 1999, Bisner, then 19, and three friends met Darby Golub, 19, in a Smith's parking lot, 2039 E. 9400 South in Sandy, allegedly to settle a drug debt. Bisner and Golub were friends. Golub showed up at the parking lot with a rifle, which his family claimed he was going to give to Bisner as collateral for the $350 he owed him. At some point during the confrontation, Bisner picked up the rifle and fired six rounds at Golub as he was running away and trying to get back into his truck. One round struck Golub in the back of his head, killing him. Bisner was convicted of murder and aggravated robbery and sentenced to a combined 11 years to life in prison. In April, Bisner had his first parole hearing. "I cant say what possessed me to pick up the gun and fire, whether it was anger, frustration, fear. I dont know what my motivations were. I have a hard time even understanding even now. But I repeatedly fired until the gun was empty, he said. "Theres never a day that doesnt go by that I dont think about all the pain Ive caused. My choices that night were purely selfish. "I dont think in my heart I meant to kill him. It was just a very, very bad situation that went wrong real quick, he said. "Honestly, Ive pondered that this whole time. I never have understood why I did it, why I began pulling the trigger." The parole board also recently granted parole to Edgardo Said Mata, 38, who was scheduled to be released May 14, but was to immediately be handed over to U.S. Immigration and Customers Enforcement for deportation. On Dec. 19, 1998, Mata, then 18, of Salem, shot Ramon Pena, 17, twice from behind at Provo's Club Omni in what was believed to be Utah County's first gang-related murder. His first parole hearing was held in March. "The 18-year-old person that committed that senseless crime, I dont even recognize that guy," Mata said. "Theres no repair. I wish there was a way I could repair that and bring back the life that I stole from him and the years that I took from his family." Mata knew once he was released from prison that deportation was "imminent." He said his family came to the United States legally when he was 7, but he never became an official citizen. And because of his crime, he was scheduled to be deported once he was released. Mata told the parole board in March that he would likely live with his family on a farm in Honduras if he was granted parole. SALT LAKE CITY Rep. John Curtis, R-Utah, jumped on the Utah Transit Authority's route 500 bus Tuesday morning to jet over to TRAX at the Matheson Courthouse and from there got on a FrontRunner train to stop off at a meeting in Murray. It was the first part of his "clean air" tour that continued on into Utah County for a visit to Brigham Young University's campus, a walk to the Rock Canyon Amphitheater and a town hall meeting. The day ended with a walk to Utah Lake State Park. Early that morning, he visited with Utah Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox at the state Capitol for a brief discussion on how to quell emissions that plague northern Utah in the winter, especially when inversions set in. At times, the Wasatch Front struggles with some of the highest pollution levels in the country, trapped along the valley floor by the mountains to the east and aggravated by the Great Salt Lake. The fine particulate pollution, or PM2.5, is about 3 percent the diameter of a human hair and enters the lungs. Through health studies it has been linked to respiratory issues, heart problems, premature death and early onset dementia. Curtis admitted it is a tough problem on the federal side to invoke a fix. "That is what is elusive right now, how the feds can help," Curtis said. "On the federal level, what can I be doing to help the state?" Cox said because the majority of emissions come from tailpipes, the state's involved in an aggressive campaign to get individual vehicles off the road as much as possible. In particular, the Utah Department of Environmental Quality partners with UCAIR (a statewide clean air partnership) to encourage the use of mass transit, trip chaining, carpooling and telecommuting as air quality begins to worsen. The Utah Legislature spent just over $500,000 for a pilot program for free fare days during bad air days and is also spending money on a state teleworking program. Federal dollars, Cox noted, are key to expanding transit infrastructure, which only works for people if it is convenient, affordable and people can easily access it. Curtis noted that the "last mile" of many people's commute is traveled by the wildly popular and relatively new hordes of scooters being introduced on the streets of metropolitan America. "They are amazingly convenient, but a little dangerous," Curtis said. Cox, who works in Salt Lake City but lives in Fairview, Sanpete County, and is well-known for his long, two-hour commute, said he works from home on bad air days. "They don't have TRAX down in Fairview," he said, smiling. In the meeting in Murray with the Wasatch Front Regional Council, the UTA and area residents, Curtis and authorities discussed five key strategies to reduce vehicle trips, including expansion of transit, family-friendly bicycle infrastructure, boosting local street connectivity and promotion of mixed used centers that incorporate work where you live developments. Andrew Gruber, executive director of the Wasatch Front Regional Council, said the ongoing discussions are a recognition that much work is left to be done in the air quality arena. Curtis' clean air tour will continue Wednesday in the southeast portion of the state, where he plans to do some biking in Moab. He said his motivation for organizing the tour is to continue the dialogue on being good stewards. "The takeaway is there is a lot of interest and all sorts of people who are gunning for the same answers I am." PROVO A Draper woman was charged Tuesday with breaking into her ex-boyfriend's house in the middle of the night and stabbing him. Yang Zhang, 37, is charged in 4th District Court with attempted murder, a first-degree felony. On Friday, Lone Peak police were called to a home where they found the homeowner had "blood on the left side of his shirt coming from his chest, and then saw a puncture wound on his chest, and multiple scratches on his body," according to charging documents. The man told police that about 3 a.m., Zhang entered his house "and woke him up, confronting him about a new female friend he had. They began to talk and then she pulled out a kitchen knife and stated she wanted to die with him. She touched the knife to his chest and then stabbed him, creating a small puncture wound," the charges state. The man was able to get the knife away from Zhang, but she then pulled out a gun, "pointed it at him, asking if a bullet can penetrate two people," according to charging documents. During the ensuing struggle over the gun, a shot was fired into the floor. When police later caught up with Zhang, "she stated she was so hurt, she 'just tried to end this,'" the charges state. Zhang has no prior criminal history. MURRAY Internet service to thousands of residents was maliciously disrupted over the holiday weekend in an attempt to extort a ransom from a local internet service provider. The so-called distributed denial of service, or DDoS, attack was launched against Sumo Fiber starting last Friday and lasting until early Monday. The technique attempts to slow and/or disrupt the functions of an online service or network by overwhelming the target or its surrounding infrastructure with a flood of internet traffic. Sumo is one of almost a dozen internet service providers available on the Utopia fiber network, which serves some 25,000 residential customers in Utah. Sumo President David Burr said the unknown malefactor(s) demanded money to halt the attack, but the company chose to fight back instead. "They demanded $750 in bitcoin." Burr wrote in an email to the Deseret News. "I was told by several people never to pay. Once they know you pay, they and others will be back over and over again wanting more." Burr said Sumo customers suffered slowdowns and service disruptions beginning last Friday evening and finally coming to an end around 3 a.m. Monday. Utopia Fiber Executive Director Roger Timmerman said the physical fiber network, upon which Sumo's services run, was not disrupted nor were any of the other providers on the network impacted. He noted it was a particularly aggressive attack. "DDoS attacks are happening constantly, but this was at a much larger scale than we typically see," Timmerman said. "It takes a pretty sophisticated attack to take down a large website or service like an internet service provider. You have to come at them with a lot of bandwidth." Timmerman said Sumo's service provision has been very consistent and characterized the size and intensity of the weekend disruption effort as an anomaly. "Theyve been a very reliable provider," Timmerman said. "Sumo has a good track record for reliability. This is definitely an outlier for them." Burr said his 7-year-old company has installed new security software that should help thwart future attempts at malicious disruptions. SALT LAKE CITY Meghan McCain has some words for Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar leave her father out of politics. On Saturday, Klobuchar told a crowd of potential voters in Iowa that Arizona Sen. John McCain kept reciting the names of different dictators during President Donald Trumps inauguration speech back in January 2017, according to CNN. "John McCain kept reciting to me names of dictators during that speech," the Minnesota senator said, "because he knew more than any of us what we were facing as a nation, he understood it." She continued: "He knew because he knew this man more than any of us did." But Meghan McCain took umbrage with Klobuchars comments. She tweeted on Monday that Klobuchar should stop talking about her father. On behalf of the entire McCain family - @amyklobuchar please be respectful to all of us and leave my fathers legacy and memory out of presidential politics, McCain tweeted. On behalf of the entire McCain family - @amyklobuchar please be respectful to all of us and leave my fathers legacy and memory out of presidential politics. Meghan McCain (@MeghanMcCain) May 27, 2019 According to USA Today, McCain and Trump didnt really get along prior to the late Arizona senators death in August 2018. McCain once called Trumps press conference with Russian president Vladimir Putin at the Helsinki Summit one of the most disgraceful performances by an American president in memory. The two traded barbs over the last two years before McCains death. Trump was not invited to McCains funeral. Meghan McCain said she wished that Trumps daughter Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner didnt attend the funeral either, as I wrote about for the Deseret News. Salman Khan is one of the biggest stars of our generation. The actor is now all geared up for his EID release Bharat. The 53-year-old actor who has seen immense popularity and fan-following thinks that even though the current trend is content riven movies, the star system will never be a thing of the past. Quipped he, Well, it is true that people are flocking to watch content driven movies and they want to see actors. But we cant forget that time keeps rolling. Today I am a star, tomorrow I will not be and these so-called actors will be taking my place. Talking about the current crop of actors, the actor further elucidated, These actors will become the stars tomorrow. No matter how much people like to watch these actors on screen, the star system will never change! Well, we cannot agree more! Salman Khan is nowadays busy with the promotions of his upcoming film Bharat that feature actors Katrina Kaif, Disha Patani, Sunil Grover, Jackie Shroff. The film has been directed by Ali Abbas Zafar After being instrumental in the careers of some of the biggest stars, Sanjay Leela Bhansali now launches Meezaan, Jaaved Jaaferis son in Malaal. The young actor is already being called the most promising debutante on the block, ever since the trailer of the film created a splash on social media. While Meezaan has a natural flair for acting, the young star worked hard on brushing up his Marathi skills since the film directed by Mangesh Hadawale, is based in the heartland of Mumbai city. Sources reveal that apart from conversing in the language with his director and the assistant directors on the sets, Meezaan also conversed with his gym trainer only in Marathi. He also spent a considerable amount of time picking up the signature thick Maharashtrian accent and local gestures and body language from his office boys. Prior to the film going on floors, Meezaan also lived with his aunt for a couple of days in town as she resided in a Maharashtrian dominated area and would interact often with the residents and understand their way of living. If that wasn't all, the actor would even visit train stations and shanties dressed in his character, where he conversed only in Marathi as part of his prep for the film. Gulshan Kumar and Sanjay Leela Bhansali present Malaal. Directed by Mangesh Hadawle and introducing Sharmin Segal and Meezaan, the film is produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Bhushan Kumar, Mahaveer Jain and Krishan Kumar. Vodafone Egypt is implementing Nokias cloud-based Subscriber Data Management (SDM) solution to offer innovative services to its 4G customers. The deployment, under the Spring SDM project, helps Egypt's largest service provider to continue transforming its operations around telco cloud technology. With Nokias Telco Cloud Network Functions Virtualisation (NFV), the operator will be able to scale its network to meet unprecedented increases in data traffic while simplifying its operational model. The Nokia SDM solution is currently used for other applications, such as Mobile Number Portability (MNP) and Equipment Identity Register (EIR). Nokia also provides cloud integration and implementation services to enable a smooth transition to the SDM solution. The deployment is a significant step in the complete transformation of Vodafone Egypt's network to continue providing the best-in-class services to its subscribers. In addition, by deploying Nokia Registers, Vodafone Egypt is able to manage its subscriber data and authentication from a centralised location and across all technologies regardless of whether they are fixed or mobile. This leads to better network efficiency and faster, smoother introduction of new services. As a result, Vodafone Egypt is able to reduce the time-to-market for the launch of new services. Osama Said, CTO at Vodafone Egypt, said: "Nokia's proven SDM solution is enabling us to enhance efficiency by consolidating subscriber data across various networks. This is one of the earliest applications over the cloud and is not only helping us by offering a superior experience to our customers but also by simplifying our operational model." Sharaf El Din Mohamed, Head of the Vodafone Egypt Customer Team at Nokia, said: "We are excited to help Vodafone Egypt deliver improved customer experience and innovative services, which enables the operator to improve customer loyalty and maintain its leadership position in the industry." FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 28, 2019 Contact: Andrew Hansen Office: 217-321-1108 Bishop Paprocki: Depriving protection for children in the womb is evil Springfield, IL Bishop Thomas John Paprocki of the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois, issued the following statement in response to the Illinois House passing Senate Bill 25 on May 28: "I condemn the gravely immoral action of the Illinois House of Representatives in passing Senate Bill 25, labeled with a highly misleading title as the Reproductive Health Act, purporting to declare abortion a fundamental right. Christians have rejected the practice of abortion from the earliest days of the Church. Children are a gift from God, no matter the circumstances of their conception. They not only have a right to life, but we as a society have a moral obligation to protect them from harm. Legislation that deprives children of legal protection before they are born, allowing for the murder of children at any stage in the womb, even up to the moment of birth, is evil. I pray for our state legislators, entrusting them especially to the intercession of Saint Thomas More, a public servant who preferred to die at the hands of civil authorities rather than abandon Christ and the Church. May we also keep unborn babies and newborn infants, as well as all mothers, in our prayers and work to improve the dignity and quality of life of all people, especially the most vulnerable. ### Subscriber content preview SEATTLE Two North Seattle warehouses at 921 N. 128th St. have has sold for $4.6 million, according to King County records. The seller was the Jennings family, which owned the property for decades. . . . Australian travellers lust after Qantas platinum frequent flyer program more than Hypebeasts lust after a hot new sneaker drop. Unfortunately, this comes with an annual, gut-wrenching realisation that your points are about to expire, due to the airlines use it or lose it policy. However, some Aussies channel this frustration into genius, as Rowena Ryan (a Sydney-based travel writer for Escape magazine), recently revealed. Needing to earn 185 status credits in one month, To retain those first class feels (Escape), Rowena explained why she was so keen to put herself through hell (and three different time-zones) just to keep her travel industry street cred alive. This is my second year as a Qantas platinum frequent flyer. There are so many things I love about it. First class lounge access around the world and really generous baggage allowances are just a few. Its also easier to accrue points, (Escape). I plan to travel extensively over the next 12 months And when you are living out of a suitcase it (being a platinum level pond-skipper) takes away a lot of the stress, making travelling super efficient and easy and enabling me to concentrate on my work. Fortunately, Rowena was employed in a profession which permitted her to work remotely. She also had an interview-project called passionate people on the go, and so planned a 30-day trip, killing two birds with three flights. In those 30 days she travelled from Sydney to the UK, from New York to San Francisco, from San Francisco to Seattle (where, on the way, she explored the California Redwoods, Crater Lake and Portland) and then from Vancouver back to Sydney, via Hawaii (as you do). Rowena largely stayed with family, friends or in shared accommodation, taking recommendations about where to stay next from people she met. For example, she told Escape, I met by chance at a drive-through-tree an amazing couple in their 70s who had ridden from San Francisco to Alaska and back on a motorbike, and whose mantra was, do epic sh*t. If youd like the opportunity to meet some bearded prophets (and make some frequent flyer profits) of your own, then Rowena advises you find a way to travel long haul multiple times a year. You need 1400 status credits within a year to be eligible and then 1200 per year to retain it, (Escape). To put this in perspective, Escape explains, A Qantas frequent flyer can earn 295 status credits for a one-way Sydney to London flight in business class, so it would take 4.75 one-way trips, or 2.5 return trips, to attain platinum status and 4.07 one-way trips (before each years cut off) to retain the status. Looking for more devious ways to score points? David Flynn, CEO of Australian Business Traveller, once wrote a piece about doing a Status Run; a long and convoluted flight, conducted at a point in time when the points you can score are doubled (to know when this is in play, youll need to keep a steady eye on Qantas and the news). Instead of doing the direct flight, you cook up a more creative routing which sees your Noumea trip (for example) become part of a longer itinerary where the journey officially starts from the likes of Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane or Adelaide instead of Sydney, and pinballs between several cities before connecting to the international flight. In my case, David added, I took an economy flight from Sydney to Canberra to set up the runThen I flew Canberra-Brisbane, Brisbane-Melbourne and Melbourne-Sydney, all in business class and on a single day, ahead of the final leg to Noumea. On my return from Noumea I basically repeated that flying pattern in reverse. All up, this admittedly convoluted itinerary netted me 840 status credits: sufficient to lock in my Qantas Platinum status to 2020. While this is very impressive, it still seems that if you find yourself short of frequent flyer status credits, to extract yourself from the situation you either need to be good with numbers, very time (and money) rich, or have access to an enthusiastic travel agent. Read Next British Airways celebrates 100 years with digital archive British Airways has opened its archive collection to the public for the first time to share never-before-seen memories of key moments from its 100-year history to celebrate its centenary year. The British Airways Centenary Archive Collection brings to life events beginning with the first international flight of its predecessor airline, Aircraft Transport and Travel Limited (AT&T) on 25 August 1919. BEA Hardy Amies uniform - 1967 The archive comprises hundreds of thousands of documents and pieces of memorabilia from British Airways and its predecessor companies British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC), British European Airways (BEA), British South American Airways (BSAA) and the pre-war Imperial Airways and British Airways Ltd. The digital archive shares never-before-seen memories of key moments from its 100-year history from the first AT&T flight carrying a journalist, Devonshire cream, leather and several brace of grouse, to the latest images of its brand-new Club Suite. BA is hosting a special centenary hub that showcases hundreds of historical images and videos, as well as articles explaining the evolution of British Airways - from a single-engine De Havilland aircraft flying the worlds first daily international scheduled flight to Paris, to a leading airline flying more than 45 million passengers a year to more than 200 destinations across the world. The digital collection includes images and videos of aircraft through decades, photographs of uniforms worn by generations of cabin crew and pilots, behind-the-scenes memorabilia from Royal and Olympic flights, and artefacts from Concorde - the most famous aircraft that ever flew. Her Majesty The Queen on Concorde in 1977 Ahead of the launch of the Centenary Archive Collection British Airways had the honour of hosting a visit by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth at the airlines headquarters at Heathrow, to mark the centenary. British Airways plans to develop and add to the site throughout its centenary year, by adding recollections written by current and retired colleagues, carefully preserved records, documents and images from its extensive archive. Air travel has always been about connecting people around the world, and this website will share the stories, achievements and memories of 100 years of British Airways history, said Alex Cruz, chairman and CEO of British Airways. Since 1919, British Airways and its forerunners pioneered commercial air travel, and our Centenary Archive Collection will continue to evolve as we look forward to the next 100 years of aviation, he added The British Airways Heritage Collection is managed by retired British Airways colleagues based at the airlines head office near Heathrow. The airline is hosting a range of activities and events throughout the year to mark its 100th birthday. The airline is also hosting BA 2119 - a programme, which will lead the debate on the future of flying and explore the future of sustainable aviation fuels, the aviation careers of the future and the customer experience of the future. Welsh guards on BEA aircraft This year the airline has also unveiled four aircraft re-painted in heritage liveries as part of its Centenary celebrations a British Overseas Airways Corporate (BOAC) liveried Boeing 747, an Airbus A319 in a British European Airways (BEA) livery, and two further Boeing 747 aircraft painted in the Negus and Landor livery designs. The archive can be accessed through the web site - https://www.britishairways.com/100/centenary-collection The Centenary activity is taking place alongside the airlines current five-year 6.5 billion investment, which includes installation of the best quality WiFi and power in every seat, fitting 128 long-haul aircraft with new interiors and taking delivery of 72 new aircraft. The airline has also revealed a brand-new business class seat with direct aisle access, the Club Suite, which will debut on the Airbus A350 later this year. Vandals demolish historical 'Guru Nanak Palace' in Pakistan's Punjab The centuries-old Guru Nanak Palace in Pakistans Punjab province was demolished by a group of vandals with the connivance of the Auqaf Board and sold its antique windows, doors and ventilators. The walls of the four-storey building had pictures of Guru Nanak, founder of Sikhism as well as of various Hindu rulers and princes, the Dawn newspaper reported. Sikh pilgrims from across the world, including India, used to visit the four centuries-old `Palace of Baba Guru Nanak, the report said. The structure situated at a village in Narowal city, about 100 km from the provincial capital Lahore, had 16 rooms with each of them having at least three delicate doors and at least four ventilators, it said. The building was constructed using old bricks, sand, clay and limestone. The rooms were large with broad walls and cupboards that had carved wooden doors. All the rooms were airy and their walls had small lamp enclosures in them. Expensive diyar wood beams of various sizes were used in the roofs, it said. However, authorities have no record of its 'owner'. "This old building is called the Palace of Baba Guru Nanak and we have named it Mahalan. A number of Sikhs from across the world, including India, used to visit this building," reports quoted a local resident Muhammad Aslam as saying. He also cited the instance of a six-member delegation from Canada, including a woman carrying a book with information about the historical building, visiting the place. The delegation was elated upon visiting the site as if they had found a treasure, he said. "The auqaf department was informed about the demolition of the building by some influential persons, but no officer or official took any action or even reached here. Three storeys of the building have already been demolished and new houses constructed. The influentials have demolished the building with the connivance of the Auqaf department and sold its costly windows, doors, ventilators and wood," another local Muhammad Ashraf said. Dawn news said its efforts to locate the owner and find out its legal status and find out which government agency maintained its record were in vain. The newspaper said it reached out to various authorities from the deputy commissioner, Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) to the family that lived in the building, but to no avail. Narowal Deputy Commissioner Waheed Asghar, in charge of the record of all properties in the region said: "There is no mention of this building in the revenue record. As it seemed to be historical, we are checking the municipal committee's record". ETPB Sialkot zone Rent Collector Rana Waheed said: "Our team is investigating the Guru Nanak Mahal Bathanwala. If this palace was the property of Evacuee Trust Property Board, legal action will be taken against those responsible". The people in the area requested Prime Minister Imran Khan to take action against those responsible. The IAF's 'All women crew' flew a Mi-17 V5 helicopter for a Battle Inoculation Training mission taking off and landing from restricted areas at a forward air base in South Western Air Command. A PTI Photo. CHANDIGARH (PTI): Two women IAF officers from Punjab were part of the country's first all-women crew to fly a medium lift helicopter Mi-17 V5 on Monday. Flight Lieutenant Parul Bhardwaj (Captain), Flying Officer Aman Nidhi (co-pilot) and Flight Lieutenant Hina Jaiswal (Flight Engineer) flew the chopper, which took off from a forward air base in South Western air command, a defence release said. "The all women crew flew a Mi-17 V5 helicopter for a Battle Inoculation Training mission taking off and landing from restricted areas at a forward air base in South Western air command," it said. Flt Lt Parul Bhardwaj hails from Mukerian in Punjab and is incidentally also the first woman pilot to fly the Mi-17 V5, while Flight Lieutenant Hina Jaiswal from Chandigarh is the first woman flight engineer of the Indian Air Force (IAF), the release said. Flying officer Aman Nidhi hails from Ranchi, Jharkhand and is also the first woman IAF pilot from the state, it added. The pilots had undergone their basic flying training at the Helicopter Training School at Air Force Station Hakimpet followed by advanced training at Air Force Station Yelahanka. The helicopter was certified airworthy by Squadron Leader Richa Adhikari the unit Engineering officer, the release said. This is yet another achievement of women officers in the IAF, it added. The death has occurred of Carmel McMahon (McGavisk) (nee O'Sullivan) of Orlynn Park, Lusk, Co. Dublin and formerly of Ardee, Co. Louth and Balbriggan, Co. Dublin Predeceased by her late husband Liam McGavisk. Carmel passed away peacefully at her home after a short illness. Sadly missed by her son Donal, daughters Deirdre and Patrice, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, daughter-in-law Karen, son-in-law Mark, extended family and friends. Reposing at her home on Tuesday and Wednesday evening from 4pm to 8pm. House strictly private at all other times. Removal on Thursday morning to St. MacCullin's Church, Lusk arriving for Funeral Mass at 11am followed by burial in S.S. Peter & Paul's Cemetery, Balbriggan. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu, if desired, to St. Francis Hospice, Raheny. May she rest in peace The death has occurred of Charlie McCabe of Bohernamoe, Ardee, Louth On May 24, 2019, suddenly at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. Charlie, predeceased by his loving wife May, sons Sean and Padraic, will be sadly missed by his son Charles, daughters Maura, Freda and Bernadette, grand-children, great-grandchildren, sisters Greta and Ena, family friend Anne, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends. Charlie will repose at his residence on Tuesday from 12 noon to 8pm. House private on Wednesday morning please. Removal on Wednesday to the Church of the Nativity of Our Lady, Ardee arriving for Funeral Mass at 11am. Burial afterwards in Ballapousta Cemetery. Family flowers only please Donations if desired to MS Ireland and Ardee Hospice Homecare May he rest in peace The death has occurred of Ava Kelly of Cardistown, Ardee, Louth On May 26 2019, aged 20 years, following a short illness. Ava will be sadly missed by her loving parents Audrey and Niall, her sister Hannah and brother Dan, grandparents Kate, Mary and Jimmy, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. Ava will repose at her home on Tuesday from 2pm to 9pm and on Wednesday from 2pm to 9pm. House private on Thursday morning please. Removal on Thursday morning to St. Peter and Paul's Church, Tallanstown arriving for 12 noon Funeral Mass. Burial afterwards in St. Oliver Plunketts Cemetery, Tallanstown. May she rest in peace Garda Siochana Witness Appeal - Year Anniversary Disappearance of Giedre Raguckaite Dundalk May 29 2018 Giedre Raguckaite, a 29 year old Lithuanian National arrived in Ireland in early March 2018 and took up residence in Drogheda. She moved to College Heights, Hoey's Lane, Dundalk at the end of April 2018. She moved out of that accommodation approximately 24th May 2018. Between 24th - 29th May 2018 there were two sightings of her in the Dundalk area. On 29th May 2018 she made contact with a friend and at approximately 6.30pm she called her father in Lithuania. She explained that she had been in a hotel/licensed premises that day for dinner and was socialising. The location of this premises is currently unknown. It is believed she was in the Dundalk area until approximately 8pm. She was last seen being assisted into a house in Laytown that night 29th May 2018 at 11pm by two men. It is understood she was very intoxicated. It is believed she left that house with these men at approxiamtely 1:45am on 30th May 2018. There has been no sightings or contact with Giedre since that time. Gardai are looking to speak to anyone who - 1) Observed Giedre out socialising on 29th May 2018. 2) May have provided accommodation for Giedre between 24th - 25th May 2018 or is aware of where she stayed. 3) Is holding or is aware of the whereabouts of any personal items of Giedre's that was left behind during that period. 4) Observed Giedre in the company of the two men on the evening of the 29th of May 2018 or thereafter. 5) May have any information in relation to Giedre's activities during that period. Gardai ask that anyone in possession of information to contact the incident room in Dundalk on 042 388 470, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or by Crime Stoppers at 1800 250 025. All information will be treated in confidence. Gardai have native Lithuanian speakers available should a member of the public wish to converse in that language. Last month Dynamic Business attended the Amazon Web Services (AWS) summit in Sydney. The event is designed to educate attendees on how cloud technology can help your business lower costs, improve efficiency, and innovate at scale. Dynamic Business spoke with Vincent Quah, who is Regional Head for Education, Research, Healthcare and Not-for-Profit APAC Public Sector at AWS. Vincent oversees a program called AWS EdStart, which is a global program designed to help education tech startups with building teaching and learning solutions on the AWS cloud. In the interview, we also spoke with Greg Margossian who is currently in the AWS EdStart program with his start up Saasyan Assure, a cyber-welfare solution that works with existing firewalls and allows schools to detect, monitor and report unusual behaviour online. It protects students from Internet threats such as cyber-bullying, online predators and inappropriate content. The solution also promotes good digital citizenship among students by calculating each students web and cyber risk rating, and flagging those more likely to be targeted. AWS EdStart has helped Greg to scale his business, and has also helped the end-users the schools Greg is working with by enabling the provision of inventive solutions. Education tech is enabling teachers to do their jobs: to teach. Modern solutions, such as the one Saasyan Assure is currently providing, tackle modern problems and take some non-teaching related stress away from educational institutions to focus on the learning. For any EdTech startup readers information about the program, eligibility and how to apply is also explained below. DB: What is EdStart? Could you clarify what the program is all about for our readers? Vincent:There are 3 tenets to the program. Support We help young, early startups within the education sector by providing an onboard platform to build skills and help them launch. We help nurture the focus of young staff on their solution for education, whether it be primary, secondary or tertiary, and help them to innovate to achieve an important student impact. We kick start startups development by providing a community network and collaborating business deals; we set up funding pitch days and hook them up to mentors. Tech The second pillar is about the technical assistance we provide, the solutions built on the AWS platform. We help them with knowing what services are the right ones to address the problem. Is it AI, machine learning, analytics? What are the right tools? We will help them to find the right premise, with security and scaling growth considered in the design from the early stages as the business is destined to grow. Promo credits Thirdly, as the startups build and they are in their experimental phase, funding is low and theres a lot on their shoulders. We help them by giving them vouchers which they can use at AWS. They then have more time for solutions and less time worrying about their personal pocket. DB: How do you decide which startups to support at AWS? What makes applications successful? Vincent:There is an internal scoring system which is based on their business plan. We look at how interesting it is and what the impact of their work will be. There are certain conditions they have to meet: The company must be less than 5 years old Their revenue must be less than $10million (USD) They must be innovative and address a real educational problem We are looking for skill, agility, flexibility and security. That is the checklist to go global. DB: What are the main problems startups struggle with when trying to develop tech products/services? Vincent: There is usually not a shortage on the technical front. When they start working on solutions, there is a certain level of expertise on the programming side etc. The weakness usually lies in sales, marketing, public relations and this is where AWS has helped. As solution architects, we can help them stop spending time with trying and failing, and make it so that they are simply just validating. Because the community has so much experience, it is streamlining the process as they can learn from others. DB: What are the benefits of the program and the challenges you have overcome? Greg: For me, it is the community that has been so beneficial. In the private school space there is little interaction and you cant learn from other businesss APIs. A challenge is that older companies arent necessarily seeing the benefits of the future They were here before the internet bubble but need to be more open minded. Younger people appreciate the them more and are more dynamic. Our app looks after the wellbeing of students, but we have to rely on the data from other sources in order to do that. This comes from the school directory or from the student groups that they belong to, and we have to set up access to different individuals. We also have to get the timetable too so that we can flag every bullying activity at the period of time when it happened. Getting all this data is hard. It is clunky school information and the data needs to come through some source of administrator and this takes time. DB: How do you expect tech to change education, research and healthcare over the next 5 to 10 years? Greg: I think overall schools are going to realise that the new generation is different. Their normal way of life is online. They wake up and they check if they are connected to the wifi, and they have a major break down if the wifi goes down! Its difficult to change that behaviour but tech is a part of kids lives now. Institutions will need to take responsibility to instill good values and teach kids to become good digital users. There will be detrimental effects in their future lives if they are using social media badly. Edtech will continue to enable schools to do this. Vincent: There is so much innovation to bring to the education system. Its challenging for schools to change; they have to be well managed and adhere to certain waysmanaging data and monitoring social media. They should be able to focus on the core mission of teaching kids, getting them future ready and building values. Technology is not a focus for teachers, and IT needs to provide that service for their peace of mind. Teachers should be focusing on raising good digital citizens in the future. Tech is pervasive and the sky is the limit to what it can change in education. DB: Lastly, how can start ups apply for the program? For any of our readers that think they would be a good candidate for AWS Edstart. Vincent: The program is free and you can apply anytime on the AWS website. Apply to be a part of EdStart here. Despite many not being able to name key politicians, the survey revealed small business owners were highly engaged with issues that affected their industry and broader community, with the cost of energy the most important for 29 per cent of small businesses this election campaign, closely followed by tax cuts (28 per cent) and climate change (10 per cent). Climate change was rated a more important issue than both red tape reduction and access to capital, at 7 per cent each. Campus News Flow Project lives on with some help from the School of Management Danielle Vasquez (far right) delivers a pitch for the Flow Project during the UB finals of the 2018 Worlds Challenge Challenge. With Vasquez are team members Isabel Hall (left) and Kelley Mosher (center). Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki By ROBBY JOHNSON The fact that the Flow Project is here to stay is rewarding because more students will be able to contribute to the global good of the world and do something thats bigger than themselves. UB students Isabel Hall, Danielle Vasquez and Kelley Mosher expected to win the global finals of the 2018 Worlds Challenge Challenge (WCC), an international competition where the winning pitch, which tackles a major global issue, is provided with funding to move forward. The trios idea, dubbed the Flow Project, is a curriculum designed to educate children in low-resource countries on the proper disposal of menstrual waste. With funding obtained from winning the WCC, the students thought the project would not only provide communities in developing countries with menstrual health and waste education, but it would be on the fast track to becoming a non-profit as well. The Flow Project is about planning ahead and thinking about the future, says Hall, who graduated this spring with a bachelors degree in environmental engineering. Its a waste management curriculum for girls and boys to begin learning about waste infrastructure. Theres plenty of products or organizations that help or donate to girls in developing countries, but people dont think of where these items go after use, adds Vasquez, who graduated this spring with masters degrees in business administration and public health. These low-developing countries just dont have the infrastructure in place to accommodate all of these new products, so they get tossed into different open waste sources, get incinerated or contaminate their water systems. Our overarching goal is to reduce waste, but were specifically targeting girls menstrual items because we can also target girls education and equity in these developing countries. Unfortunately, things didnt go as planned for the UB team: WCC judges didnt select the Flow Project as the winner because the team didnt have any data supporting the effectiveness of the curriculum. The trio also didnt have enough experience in implementing a curriculum, further hampering their case for the projects potential success. The Flow Project was put on the backburner that summer because there wasnt any funding to move it forward. Mosher had also graduated from UB with her master of urban planning degree, adding to the unlikelihood the project would continue. Despite the bleak outlook, the project finally caught a break because of its original plan to pilot the curriculum at the Bawaleshie Primary School in Ghana. The school was specifically chosen because Vasquez learned about it during a study abroad program offered by the School of Management. I studied abroad in Ghana during my second year of my MBA and thats where I was introduced to the Bawaleshie Primary School, Vasquez says. Its a very rural and underserved school, and the teachers communicated with me that there isnt a lot of knowledge surrounding menstrual health. Going back to that school in Ghana to pilot this project just made sense and was an easy connection, so I talked to professor Dorothy Siaw-Asamoah, who is actually from Ghana, and she was all for it. Coincidentally, Siaw-Asamoah, a clinical assistant professor in the School of Management, had received a generous donation of 200 sustainable menstrual-health kits in fall 2018 from Days for Girls, a non-profit that prepares and distributes sustainable menstrual-health solutions to girls who would otherwise miss school during their monthly periods. This prompted Siaw-Asamoah to reach out to Vasquez and ask if she and her fellow team members wanted to pilot the Flow Project in Ghana during the upcoming winter. Although Hall and Mosher already had prior commitments and couldnt go to Ghana, they worked with Vasquez throughout last fall on a pilot curriculum that Vasquez would deliver in Ghana. Hall says they left no stone unturned in the development of the curriculum, and made sure it was as comprehensive as possible. Theres a lot of issues that go into this overall problem of menstrual waste, she says. We try to break it down into the most comprehensive way for kids to understand this and have the program make an impact. Before they can understand waste, they need to understand materials and how they biodegrade; but before they can understand materials, they need to understand why theyre using these materials and what menstruation is. With a curriculum ready to go and plenty of menstrual-health kits to aid in its successful implementation, Vasquez used funding available to her as a Western New York Prosperity Fellow and made the trip to Ghana in January. Over the course of two days, students at Bawaleshie Primary School learned all about menstruation and menstrual waste. Vasquez calls the trip a tremendous success, citing how enthusiastic students were in learning the material and how grateful they were for the menstrual-health kits. Even though Hall and Vasquez graduated from UB this spring, the Flow Project is here to stay. The School of Management is committed to keeping it alive, and will deliver the curriculum in Ghana again next year with the help of other students. The focus this time around will be gathering data on the projects effectiveness so that Vasquez, Hall and Mosher who all will take backseat administrative roles in the project can continue working toward a goal of someday turning the project into a viable non-profit. Hall and Vasquez say the entire experience has been a rewarding one because, as Vasquez notes, it will allow more UB students to make an impact in the future. The fact that the Flow Project is here to stay is rewarding because more students will be able to contribute to the global good of the world and do something thats bigger than themselves, she says. 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This comes after a succession of product launches from the brand throughout 2019 so far. The tour will see the companys brand-new road trip van visit MEDITE SMARTPLY distributors and key customer locations, giving construction professionals the chance to meet with product experts and build their technical knowledge base. Anyone working in the construction industry is welcome to visit at any location. With free bacon rolls, tea and coffee for all who visit the van, attendees can also take part in games and competitions for chances to win prizes. The tour will start on 3 June and travel across the UK towards Scotland. Along the journey, the van will also cross over to Ireland. The tour will end in October, having paused at the halfway point for the month of August. See the full list of locations and plan your visit here: mdfosb.com/on-tour. Sales Director Richard Allen said: Were very excited to be embarking on this, our first ever MEDITE SMARTPLY tour. MEDITE SMARTPLY leads the way in the development of technically advanced timber panels and the purpose of this tour is to connect with our regional customer bases, and demonstrate how MEDITE SMARTPLY can provide the solutions for their construction challenges. Report says turbulence may have caused Dubai plane crash Dubai Media Office / Twitter French investigators say a plane that crashed near Dubai's International Airport may have been hit by turbulence from the wake of another aircraft. An initial report by French investigators said video footage showed the plane "encountered possible wake turbulence" from an Airbus landing on a parallel runway on 16 May. The crash is being investigated by the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority. A statement on the Bureau d'Enquetes et d'Analyses website said: "A Diamond DA-62 aircraft, registration mark G-MDME, was involved in a fatal accident while on approach to runway 30L of Dubai International Airport for a ground navigation equipment inspection flight. "Video footage showed the aircraft encountered possible wake turbulence at about 1,100ft, following an Airbus A350, which landed on the parallel runway 30R." Manx pilot William Blackburn, from Douglas, was among the four people who died in the crash. Ronaldsway ranked 15th in list of flight delays in UK Copyright Richard Hoare and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence. Ronaldsway was the fifteenth worse UK airport for flight delays last year, a new study has found. Departures from Ronaldsway Airport were an average of 13 minutes late in 2018, analysis of Civil Aviation Authority data revealed. The figure was equal to the average delays at Aberdeen, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford and Heathrow. London Stansted was ranked as the worst UK airport for passenger delays, with the data showing flights out of the airport were an average of 25 minutes late. Stansted was followed by Luton, Birmingham and Gatwick. The ranking takes into account every scheduled and chartered flight from 24 major UK airports. 25,000 donated to three local charities 25,000 has been donated to three Isle of Man charities. Alzheimers Society Isle of Man received 12,500, Rebecca House Childrens Hospice 7,500, and Live At Home 5,000. The funds are from Zurich Internationals 2018 annual charity grant awards. Every year staff are asked to choose the local organisations they wish to support. Alzheimers Society Isle of Man will be using their donation to help provide information, services and support to the 1,300 people with dementia and their carers on the Isle of Man. Rebecca House Childrens Hospice is going to train staff in Bobath Therapy which helps children with cerebral palsy and other allied neurological conditions. Live at Home Chief Executive Jackie Bridson said: The money received from Zurich International will be ploughed back into the work of Live at Home tackling social isolation and loneliness and will help us to further develop and run our 40 monthly social activities and events around the Isle of Man." Arrest warrants out for 100 in FETO-linked terror suspects probe FETO and its US-based leader Fetullah Gulen orchestrated the defeated coup of July 15, 2016, which left 251 people martyred and nearly 2,200 injured. Turkish prosecutors issued arrest warrants for over 100 people across the nation for their suspected links to the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO), the group behind the 2016 defeated coup, judicial sources said on Tuesday. MORE THAN 100 SUSPECTED ARRESTED Istanbul prosecutors sought the arrest of 74 suspects 32 out of them are on active duty soldiers with warrants as part of a FETO probe into the infiltration of the terror group into the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK), according to sources who asked not to be named due to restrictions on speaking to the media. Colonels, lieutenant colonels, and commanders are among the soldiers sought by security sources, the sources said. Separately, prosecutors in southern Adana province issued arrest warrants for 27 soldiers including 20 personnel on active-duty, sources said. Police have conducted raids in 18 provinces to hunt suspects. Merkel calls on European leaders to reach compromise German Chancellor Angela Merkel urged timely decision on EU top jobs before European Parliament convenes in early July. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called on European leaders to reach a compromise decision on the top EU jobs before the European Parliament convenes at the beginning of July. "WE WOULD LIKE TO FIND A SOLUTION AS SOON AS PROSSIBLE" Speaking at a news conference in Berlin on Monday, Merkel underlined that the leaders should take into account the outcome of Sundays European Parliament elections when proposing a candidate for the EU Commission president. We would like to find a solution as soon as possible, because the European Parliament will convene at the beginning of July, Merkel said. It would of course be desirable if the EU Council [heads of state or government of the EU member states] would come up with a proposal up to that point, she added. EU leaders are set to meet in Brussels on Tuesday for an informal summit to discuss the outcome of the European Parliament elections and start the nomination process for the heads of the top EU institutions. Chancellor Merkels Christian Democrats insist that Manfred Weber, the lead candidate of the center-right parties in European Parliament elections, should be nominated as the president of EU Commission. The European People's Party (EPP), an umbrella group of center-right parties, has become the largest faction in the European Parliament, winning 180 seats in the 751-seat European Parliament. But the EPP needs support from at least two other political groups in the parliament to build a majority. The president of the EU Commission is nominated by the member states. The European Parliament needs to approve the president by an absolute majority. Other top EU jobs to be filled this year include the new president of the EU Council, the new High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the new President of the European Central Bank. Trump insists on North Korea denuclearization Trump urged N.Korean leader Kim Jong-un to transform his impoverished country thorough denuclearization, saying "only bad" can happen with his nuclear arms. Donald Trump said on Monday that he viewed recent North Korean missile firings "differently" than Japan due to the absence of North Korean nuclear testing for the past two years. "VIOLATION OF SECURITY COUNCIL RESOLUTIONS" After Japan's premier said Trump supported his endeavor to engage with North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un, Trump urged Kim to denuclearize the country. Addressing a news conference alongside Abe Shinzo, Trump said denuclearization of the Korean peninsula would transform the "impoverished country," Seoul-based Yonhap news Agency reported. "Only bad can happen with his nuclear arms," Trump said. Contradicting Trump, Abe remarked moments later that a launch of North Korean short-range ballistic missiles on May 9 was a "violation of Security Council resolutions." "It is of great regret," he added, reported Japanese Kyodonews news agency. US Presidential security advisor John Bolton said in Tokyo last week that there was "no doubt" the launch of ballistic missiles was a violation of UN resolutions. However, North Korea slammed Bolton for his remarks calling him "war maniac". He has held two summits with Kim since June 2018, but there has been no tangible step towards denuclearization on the peninsula. Pyongyang blames Washington for talks breaking down between the two countries. When asked about Pyongyang's missile launch, Trump said he viewed recent missile test launches "differently". He said that during his negotiations with Kim, there had been "no nuclear and long-range missile tests". "Very importantly, there has been no nuclear testing for two years. I looked at the chart the other day. During the past administrations, there were many numbers that were very high, like 10, 12 and 18, having to do with missile launches and nuclear testing," he said. "For the last two years, at the bottom it had zero and zero. So, I am very happy the way it's going and intelligence people agree with it," he added. Trump said that he hoped Kim "seizes the opportunity to transform his country through denuclearization. It is a country with tremendous economic and other potentials," he said. Trump also reiterated that he was "in no rush at all" to return to talks with Kim "I think he is going to try at some point [to denuclearize] I am in no rush at all. Sanctions remain. We have our hostages back. We, as you know, [are] continuing to get the remains [of fallen US troops]. A lot of good things are happening," he said. Separately, in a meeting with families of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korean agents in the 1970s and 1980s, Trump vowed cooperation with Abe to secure their return. Turkey denies US deadline on S-400 Turkeys Defense Minister Hulusi Akar says no deadline given for reconsidering S-400 procurement from Russia. Turkeys Defense Minister Hulusi Akar on Monday denied claims the US gave Turkey a deadline to reconsider buying the S-400 air defense missile systems from Russia. "TURKEY HAS NOT BEEN GIVEN ANY SUCH DEADLINE" Speaking to local Haberturk channel, Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said Turkey has not been given any such deadline. About measures Turkey would take in case of possible sanctions from the US over Ankaras procurement of S-400 missile defense system from Moscow, Akar refused to comment on assumptions. We are carrying out activities in a way that will completely fulfill the responsibilities given to us, Akar said, adding that Turkey made full payment for F-35 fighter jets to Washington. Tensions between the US and Turkey have reached a fever pitch in recent months with Turkey set to begin receiving the advanced S-400 Russian surface-to-air missile system which Washington said will jeopardize Turkey's role in the US F-35 fighter jet program and could trigger congressional sanctions. Akar said four F-35 fighter jets have already been delivered to Turkey and their activities are ongoing at the base in the US. Training of our four pilots is underway and hundreds of sergeants got maintenance training and returned [to Turkey], he said, adding that 37 personnel were recently trained. The US has already suspended deliveries of parts and services related to Turkey's receipt of the multi-million-dollar fighter jets. Following protracted efforts to purchase an air defense system from the US with no success, Ankara decided in 2017 to purchase the Russian S-400 system. US officials advised Turkey to buy the US Patriot missile system rather than the S-400s from Moscow, arguing the Russian system would be incompatible with NATO systems and expose the F-35 to possible Russian subterfuge. Turkey, however, emphasized the S-400 would not be integrated into NATO systems and would not pose a threat to the alliance. S-400 missile system VIDEO Turkish-German experts discuss NATO relations Turkeys purchase of Russian S-400s was on the experts agenda. Turkeys purchase of the Russian defense system S-400 is not a technical problem but a political one, a German expert said on Monday. "S-400 A POLITICAL PROBLEM" It's a political problem. If Turkey receives S-400s, the F-35 transfers will be stopped and that would be a big loss, Ian Lesser, executive director for Brussels bureau of the German Marshall Fund, told a panel hosted by the Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research (SETA). Turkey's Permanent Representative to NATO Basat Ozturk said that Ankara has been contributing to all of NATO's missions, ranging from Afghanistan to Kosovo. Turkey is the second largest army in NATO and its contributions cannot be overlooked, Ozturk added. Turkey is preparing to receive the S-400 systems at the end of 2019, while being in a deal with the US for procurement of the F-35 aircraft. However, the US believes that S-400 will pose a threat to its F-35 fighter jets. The US announced on April 1 that it has suspended "deliveries and activities" related to Turkey's procurement of the F-35 fifth-generation stealth fighter jet over Ankara's plans to buy Russias S-400. UK: People are forced to pay bribes to survive in N.Korea N. Koreans are forced to pay bribes to officials to survive in their isolated country where corruption is endemic and repression rife, the UN Human Rights Office said. A latest report by the UN Human Rights Office has highlighted endemic corruption in North Korea, saying people are forced to pay bribes to survive. A LARGE NUMBER OF HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS The Pyongyang government has, however, dismissed the report and described it as politically motivated. Failure of the state to provide for lifes basic necessities forces them [people] to turn to rudimentary markets where they face a host of human rights violations in an uncertain legal environment, the report stated. The report is based on the testimonies of 214 citizens, who ran-away from the Communist country in 2017 and 2018 and are currently based in South Korea. Ju Chan-yang, who had defected to the South in 2011, told a news conference in Seoul organized by the UN rights body, that she was forced to sell banned South Korean and US products in the underground economy by bribing authorities. If you get caught and dont have bribes to pay, you could get executed, just like my relatives, she said. The report claimed that public distribution system in North Korea is broken. People seek to eke out a living in a legally precarious parallel economy, they are exposed to arbitrary arrest, detention, and extortion, it added. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet noted: The rights to food, health, shelter, work, freedom of movement and liberty are universal and inalienable, but in North Korea they depend primarily on the ability of individuals to bribe state officials. The report further stated that an atmosphere of constant threat of arrest and prosecution, empowers state officials to extort money and other favors from people desperate, to avoid inhuman detention conditions. It said in particular women are vulnerable to abuse at the hands of brokers and traffickers. UN secretary calls for more caution against extremism UN chief Antonio Guterres condemned recent deadly attacks on places of worship. The UN secretary-general on Monday called for more vigilant stance against corrosive hate and violent extremism, referring to recent deadly attacks on mosques and churches. "WE HAVE TO BE MORE CAREFUL" We must be more vigilant than ever in the face of corrosive hate and violent extremism, online and offline, Antonio Guterres told the event marking the 40th anniversary of the Vienna International Centre. Two weeks ago, I visited Christchurch, New Zealand, where I expressed my solidarity with the Muslim community after the horrific attacks on two mosques, he said. On March 15, at least 51 Muslim worshippers were massacred and as many injured in a white supremacist terror attack on two mosques in Christchurch. Guterres also recalled the deadly attacks on Sri Lanka and Burkina Faso churches and a California synagogue. In April, at least 250 people were killed in Sri Lanka on Easter when tens of hundreds of Christians were attending special prayers. Earlier in May, seven people were also killed in an armed attack at a Catholic church in Burkina Faso. Also in April, a shooting at a synagogue just outside of San Diego, California killed one woman and left three others injured. US plans to lift weaponary embargo on Cyprus US government is planning lifting embargo on Cyprus Greeks. All of these steps are being taken for oil and gas. US lawmaker Eliot Engel, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committe, stated that US wants to cooperate with Southern Cyprus and Israel to ensure peace in eastern Mediterranean. THIS IS NO LONGER 1970S "I'm excited about the prospect of our ally Israel working with Cyprus I think we have an opportunity for peace and cooperation as never before," Engel said after talks with Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades. "The energy rights that (Cyprus) has are exciting. It's a new threshold, I think that Mr. Putin and Russia can't and should not be able to control the situation." Engel said he believes there will be progress in efforts to lift a 32-year-old US arms embargo on Cyprus, adding that "this is no longer the 1970s and we have to look at each problem with a fresh look." When the W.A. de Vigier Prize was awarded for the first time 30 years ago, many of this years prize winners were just learning to walk. Back then, nobody was talking about start-up promotion. Bill de Vigier knew from his own experience just how important seed money could be and set his goal to pave the way for young, promising entrepreneurs. He was among the first to institutionalise support for start-ups in Switzerland. For three decades, the W.A. de Vigier Foundation has awarded the highest endowed start-up prize in the country, independently and with no strings attached. For the first time the jury invited 60 start-ups to pitch There was another first in the anniversary year 2019: After a preliminary selection, the foundation board got to know 60 young entrepreneurs instead of the usual 16 start-ups. The Selection Day Top 60 gave us the chance to get an early sense of the ideas and, in particular, of the people behind the ideas. Our foundation places particular importance on the entrepreneurial personality because we need more pioneers in our country, people like Bill de Vigier. We need real role models who shape our society both with their ideas and their spirit, says Beat Graf, Vice President of the W.A. de Vigier Foundation. The Selection Day Top 60 will take place again next year. Amongst the ten winners are six ETH start-ups: PXL Vision, Scewo, Vatorexcall_made, PharmaBiome, Piomic Medicalcall_made and Sleepizcall_made. Innovative digital identity verification Identity fraud and the protection of personal data are huge challenges. PXL Vision AG develops state-of-the-art computer vision and machine learning technologies for fully automated customer onboarding and identity verification using camera-based devices. PXL enables the creation of trusted digital identities which can be used to share personal data and interact in the digital space safely across industries. A wheelchair that climbs stairs Scewo AG develops a wheelchair that allows the user to climb stairs and move more freely. Upon approaching steps, two rubber tracks under the wheelchair are extended. The chairs seat is kept level at all times. The transitions on and off the stairs are automated. The software developers strive to increase the level of automatisation, to help detect critical situations and to drive certain distances autonomously. Using heat to save the bees The Varroa mite is a parasite that damages bee colonies in Europe and North America. Until now, beekeepers treated their bees chemically, which unfortunately also damages the bees. Vatorex AG uses the different heat tolerance of mites and bees. With a heating wire embedded directly into the brood combs, the bee brood is heated, which kills the mite. This treatment results in 31 percent improved development of the colony. Rethinking intestinal therapy The microbiome is involved in a majority of chronic diseases related to metabolism and the immune system. PharmaBiome AG established a proprietary technology to isolate, culture and characterise gut microbes. Based on the microbes functional interaction, the start-up formulates them into pharmaceutical grade mixed cultures to sustainably modulate the guts microbiome and thereby treat microbiome-linked diseases. Wearable wound-healing device Piomic Medical AG develops a wearable medical device for the treatment of hard-to-heal wounds. Acceleration of wound-healing processes reduces pain and the risk of wound infections, while also increasing the quality of life in patients suffering from chronic wounds. The unique energy-based technology is portable, easy to use and fits seamlessly into the workflow of healthcare professionals. Medical sleep monitoring from home With Sleepiz AGs solution patients can get medically tested for sleep disorders in the comfort of their own homes. The touchless device uses an AI algorithm to capture vital signs and sleep environment data in real time with medical-grade accuracy. The cloud-based solution saves time and money, therefore a higher number of patients can be screened more efficiently for sleep disorders. DALLAS, May 28, 2019 -- Cardiomyopathies (heart muscle diseases) in children are the focus of a new scientific statement from the American Heart Association that provides insight into the diagnosis and treatment of the diseases as well as identifying future research priorities. It will be published in the American Heart Association's journal Circulation. When a child has certain types of cardiomyopathy, their heart is not able to pump blood efficiently. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, heart rhythm abnormalities, dizziness, swollen hands and feet or other indications. Although rare, cardiomyopathies in children can be life threatening and often result in either a child needing a heart transplant or premature death. There are many causes of cardiomyopathies including genetic variations that affect basic heart functions, systemic diseases, such as infections, treatments for medical conditions that injure the heart and many others, some of which are not yet understood. According to the statement: Nearly 40% of children who are diagnosed with cardiomyopathies that produce symptoms receive a heart transplant or die within the first two years after diagnosis. The percentage of children with cardiomyopathy who received a heart transplant has not declined over the past 10 years. Cardiomyopathy remains the leading cause of transplantation for children over one year of age. "This statement is designed to give medical professionals an overview of what we currently know about cardiomyopathies in children. Although we are able to provide effective treatments in many cases, research is urgently needed to better understand the causes of the diseases so we can help children with cardiomyopathies live their best lives," said Steven E. Lipshultz, M.D., the chair of the writing group and the A. Conger Goodyear Professor and chair of the Department of Pediatrics at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo. Dr. Lipshultz is also the Chair of the Medical Advisory Board of the Children's Cardiomyopathy Foundation, which partners with the American Heart Association on funding pediatric cardiomyopathy research grants. ### Co-authors are Yuk M. Law, M.D.; Alfred Asante-Korang, M.D.; Eric D. Austin, M.D.; Anne I. Dipchand, M.D.; Melanie D. Everitt, M.D.; Daphne T. Hsu, M.D.; Kimberly Y. Lin, M.D.; Jack F. Price, M.D.; James D. Wilkinson, M.D. and Steven D. Colan, M.D. Additional Resources: After May 28, 2019, view the manuscript online. Commonly Asked Questions About Children and Heart Disease Congenital Heart Defects Follow AHA/ASA news on Twitter @HeartNews The association receives funding primarily from individuals; foundations and corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations and fund specific association programs and events. The association has strict policies to prevent these relationships from influencing the science content. Revenues from pharmaceutical and device corporations and health insurance providers are available at https://www.heart.org/en/about-us/aha-financial-information. About the American Heart Association The American Heart Association is a leading force for a world of longer, healthier lives. With nearly a century of lifesaving work, the Dallas-based association is dedicated to ensuring equitable health for all. We are a trustworthy source empowering people to improve their heart health, brain health and well-being. We collaborate with numerous organizations and millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, advocate for stronger public health policies, and share lifesaving resources and information. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. The researchers of the Nanoscience Center (NSC) at the University of Jyvaskyla, Finland, and in the Xiamen University, China, have discovered how copper particles at the nanometre scale operate in modifying a carbon-oxygen bond when ketone molecules turn into alcohol molecules. Modification of the carbon-oxygen and carbon-carbon bonds found in organic molecules is an important intermediate stage in catalytic reactions, where the source material is changed into valuable end products. Understanding the operation of catalysts at the level of the atomic structure of a single particle makes it possible to develop catalysts into desired directions, such as making them efficient and selective for a specific desired end-product. The study was published in the internationally recognised ACS Nano nanoscience publication series. In Finland, the study was led by Academy Professor Hannu Hakkinen. The catalytic copper particles used in the study were made and structurally characterized at the Xiamen University, and their operation in changing a strong carbon-oxygen bond in a hydrogenation reaction was studied by the researchers of the Nanoscience Center (NSC) at the University of Jyvaskyla in computer simulations. The precise atomic structure of the copper particles was determined through X-ray diffraction and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The particles were found to contain 25 copper atoms and ten hydrogens, and there were 18 thiols protecting the surface of the particle. While the experimental work in Xiamen revealed its excellent performance in catalytic hydrogenation of ketones, the simulations predicted that the hydrogens bound to the copper core of the particle act as a hydrogen storage, which releases two hydrogen atoms to the carbon-oxygen bond during a reaction. The hydrogen storage is refilled after the reaction, when a hydrogen molecule attached to the particle from its surroundings splits into two hydrogen atoms, which are bound again to the copper core (see image). The NMR measurements carried out in Xiamen revealed an intermediate product of the reaction, which confirmed the predictions of the computational model. "This is one of the first times in the whole world when it has been possible to discover how a catalytic particle works when its structure is known this accurately, thanks to a cooperation involving both experiments and simulations," says Academy Professor Hannu Hakkinen from the University of Jyvaskyla, who led the computational part of the study. Hakkinen's collaborator, Karoliina Honkala, Professor of computational catalysis, continues: "Traditionally, expensive platinum-based catalysts are used in hydrogenation reactions. This study proves that nanoscale copper hydride particles also act as hydrogenation catalysts. The results give hope that in the future, it will be possible to develop effective and inexpensive copper-based catalysts to transform functionalised organic molecules into products with a higher added value." In addition to Hakkinen and Honkala, Postdoctoral Researcher Nisha Mammen, Doctoral Student Sami Kaappa and Senior Researcher Sami Malola from the University of Jyvaskyla participated in the study. The research conducted by the groups of Hakkinen and Honkala was supported by the Academy of Finland. The computer simulations in the study were carried out by the supercomputers of the CSC - IT Center for Science. The experimental work of the study was carried out by the group of Professor Nanfeng Zheng from the Xiamen University. ### Inquiries and more information: Academy Professor Hannu Hakkinen, tel. +358 400 247 973, hannu.j.hakkinen@jyu.fi Publication: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsnano.9b02052 Website for Hakkinen's research group: https://www.jyu.fi/science/en/nanoscience-center/research/nanoclusters Website for Honkala's research group: https://www.jyu.fi/science/en/chemistry/research/computational-chemistry-and-spectroscopy/catalysis Website for Nanfeng Zheng's research group: https://nfzheng.xmu.edu.cn Academy of Finland Communications Leena Vahakyla, Communications Specialist tel. +358 295 335 139 firstname.lastname(at)aka.fi IMAGE: Atomic structure of the copper catalyst used in the hydrogenation reaction of a carbon-oxygen bond. Formaldehyde H2CO (on the left), used as the model molecule in the simulations, takes two hydrogens from the copper; they move to the carbon-oxygen bond so that the molecule changes into a simple alcohol (methanol CH3OH on the right). After the reaction, a hydrogen molecule (blue, on the left) in the vicinity splits into two hydrogen atoms inside the copper. Image: Sami Malola, University of Jyvaskyla Extensive alloying makes material development more dependent on scarce resources. Alloyed materials with complicated compositions are also difficult to synthesize and recycle. With increased alloying, material costs continue to spiral while property enhancements level off. For these reasons, the sustainability of materials, especially metals, has recently gained more and more attention. In a study published in Science, Prof. LI Xiuyan and Prof. LU Ke from the Shenyang National Laboratory for Materials Science (SYNL), Institute of Metal Research of the Chinese Academy of Sciences propose improving material properties by plainification, a method of tailoring stable interfaces between grains at different length scales by using fewer or no alloying elements. Plainification would advance material sustainability by lowering the cost of materials, increasing resource independence and improving material recyclability. While the underlying principle of plainification is sound, it faces challenges due to the intrinsic instability of microstructures at the nanometer scale where property variations are dramatically increased. Previous studies by Prof. LI Xiuyan and Prof. LU Ke, published respectively in Science in 2018 and Phys. Rev. Lett. in 2019, revealed that nano-sized grains in pure copper and nickel produced from plastic deformation exhibit notable thermal and mechanical stability against coarsening below a critical grain size, thanks to an autonomous grain boundary relaxation to low-energy states that suppresses dislocation nucleation. Such stabilization strengthens metals in a way that is distinct from how alloys resist dislocation slip. This finding offers new possibilities for developing stable nanostructured metals and alloys with novel properties, which is the basis for the plainification strategy. As chief scientist, Prof. LI Xiuyan leads the Key R&D Project on "Plainification of materials with low-energy interfaces," which has been financially supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) since 2018. ### ITHACA, N.Y. - By adding utility-scale solar farms throughout New York state, summer electricity demand from conventional sources could be reduced by up to 9.6 percent in some places. But Cornell University engineers caution that upstate winters tell a different tale. With low energy demand around midday in the winter, combined with solar-electricity production, New York's power system could face volatile swings of "ramping" - which is how power system operators describe quick increases or decreases in demand. "It's a very surprising finding," said senior author Max Zhang, associate professor at Cornell's Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. "When are you going to have maximum ramping take place in New York? It's not going to be in the summer when the solar power is the highest and the needs are more balanced. It turns out to be in the winter. When you have several days of sunshine in a row during winter, that causes the largest ramping on the power system in New York state." The paper, "Strategic Planning for Utility-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Development - Historical Peak Events Revisited," was published in Applied Energy. In addition to Zhang, co-authors are Cornell doctoral candidates Jeff Sward and Jiajun Gu, and Jackson Siff. Ramping makes the grid less efficient, because system operators then must employ natural gas or other carbon methods to keep up with demand, Sward said. "This paper can inform regional development trends and could lead to the improvement of electricity transmission from upstate to downstate." "The increasing ramping requirement will be a challenge in pursuing our renewable energy target," said Zhang, "but it can be met with flexible resources, both in the supply and demand sides, as well as energy storage." ### As part of the paper, Siff worked with David Kay, senior extension associate in development sociology, with Cornell's Community and Regional Development Institute to conduct spatial analysis of New York state land parcels in order to identify places where utility-scale solar farms could work best. Jennifer Ifft, assistant professor of Cornell's Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, consulted on the research. Mackenzie Kinard, M.Eng. , Kaleb Rousch, M.Eng., and Danyang Guo, a visiting doctoral student from the Harbin Institute of Technology, also consulted on this paper. Cornell's Northeast Regional Climate Center provided the solar and other meteorological data for the analysis. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the Atkinson Center funded the paper. Cornell University has dedicated television and audio studios available for media interviews supporting full HD, ISDN and web-based platforms. HANOVER, N.H. - May 28, 2019 - Parts of Alaska's mountainous Brooks Range were likely transported from Greenland and a stretch of the Canadian Arctic much farther to the east, according to a series of Dartmouth-led studies detailing over 300 million years of Arctic geologic history. The finding updates the geological evolution of the Arctic Ocean and could help revise predictions about the Arctic's oil, gas and mineral wealth. By explaining the formation of the Arctic Ocean in the Western Hemisphere - known as the Amerasian Basin - the research provides more clues into the geological history of the rapidly changing region. "This is arguably the most important place for the United States from the perspective of Arctic economic development," said Justin Strauss, an assistant professor of earth science at Dartmouth. "The geology of this region, which is directly connected to its ancient history, will help revise our knowledge about natural resources in the Arctic." The existing model for the formation of the Arctic Ocean along the U.S. and Canada border region details how seismic activity, known as faulting, caused Alaska to rotate away from a western band of islands in the Canadian Arctic starting approximately 125 million years ago. Under this original "rotation" scenario, parts of the Brooks Range should match perfectly with Canada's Banks Island and Victoria Island about 450 hundred miles away. But after close to ten years studying exposed rocks in the region, the Dartmouth studies show that the area actually contains rocks with origins as far away as 1,200 miles to the east. The results were recently published in a Special Papers series by the Geological Society of America. "The geology of the northeastern Brooks Range does not match anything that we've studied in the neighboring region of North America," said Strauss, the research lead of the study. "This complicates previous models for how you open this major ocean basin." Further confirming the findings, researchers in the study area saw signs of mountain-building processes that are not known to have taken place near the present position of the Brooks Range. This collision of ancient land masses dating from 400-450 million years is more closely associated with tectonic activity in the eastern Arctic. The team believes that the area was formed by a combination of activities including the action of a major strike-slip fault system - similar to the San Andreas Fault of California - that transported part of what is now the Brooks Range from Greenland to the western Canadian Arctic Islands. A smaller scale rotation of the land mass farther westward that has been previously recorded may complete the explanation of how northern Alaska was transported to its current location. "Relationships on the northwestern margin of North America have long been poorly understood and poorly documented," said Bill McClelland, a professor of earth and environmental studies at the University of Iowa and co-investigator of the study. "The results of these studies have significantly enhanced our understanding of the tectonic processes that formed the Arctic margin of North America and will be instrumental in pushing forward on new research frontiers." "Because of its remoteness, the North Slope of Alaska and Yukon has seen limited studies to date," said co-investigator Maurice Colpron, a scientist with the Yukon Geological Survey. "Understanding the area with complete certainty will still take many years of hard work, but these research findings greatly advance our knowledge of the region." As the Arctic continues to open for the development of oil, gas and mineral resources, this new understanding of the region's history could change predictions of how much resource wealth lies in the area. The United States Geological Survey currently estimates that about 6 percent of the world's oil and 25 percent of the world's natural gas are in the Arctic. The region studied by the team lies within the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, an area that some would like to open for oil drilling. In addition to changing the outlook over how much resource wealth exists in the Arctic and where it sits, the research could impact how countries lay claim to those resources. The United States, Russia, Canada and other Arctic countries are all jostling for extended footholds in the region. "If countries are going to make legal claims based on geology or geophysics, they should consider these much older boundaries that we are highlighting. Governments will to need to confront the complexities of geology meeting politics," said Strauss. While magnetic surveys allow researchers to understand how the Arctic's Eurasian Basin over Europe and western parts of Asia was formed, that same data are not as easy to interpret for the Amerasian Basin above North America. The research, funded by the National Science Foundation, is based on the existence of a major fault system in the northern part of North America that has yet to be completely mapped. "This is the area of the Arctic Ocean that still baffles researchers. It's one of the last major ocean basins on the planet that we just do not understand," said Strauss. In future studies, the research team will focus on Canada's Yukon and Ellesmere Island to look for major fault systems. The research will retrace hundreds of millions of years of geological evolution to further explore where this part of Alaska came from and why it landed where it did. ### Researchers from University of Iowa, West Virginia University, Yukon Geological Survey, Johns Hopkins University and University of Alaska-Fairbanks all contributed to this study. A study conducted in Brazil at the FAPESP-funded Research Centre for Gas Innovation pointed to the environmental and economic benefits of the cargo transportation industry in Sao Paulo State's interior adopting LNG The substitution of diesel oil by liquefied natural gas (LNG) for cargo transportation in Sao Paulo would possibly lead to a significant reduction in fuel costs and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions - as well as other pollutants - in Sao Paulo State, Brazil. This was presented in a study by the Research Centre for Gas Innovation (RCGI) supported by the Sao Paulo Research Foundation - FAPESP - and Shell. Hosted at the Engineering School of the University of Sao Paulo (Poli-USP), the RCGI is one of the Engineering Research Centers (ERCs) financed by FAPESP in partnership with large companies. "The biggest benefits, both in terms of pollution reductions and in prices of the fuels being discussed herein, are perceived in Sao Paulo and Campinas, which are regions with greater potential for substituting diesel oil with LNG and where diesel oil is more expensive than it is in the rest of the State. Our results show that in Sao Paulo, LNG can be up to 60% cheaper than diesel oil," said Dominique Mouette, Professor in the School of Arts, Sciences, and Humanities at the University of Sao Paulo (EACH-USP), in an RCGI press communique. Mouette is principal author of the article and leader of the RCGI project focusing on the viability of a Blue Corridor in Sao Paulo State. The objective of the study, which resulted in an article published in Science of Total Environment, was to evaluate the economic and environmental benefits of substituting diesel oil with LNG for the purpose of establishing a Blue Corridor in the state. This concept appears in Russia and designates routes on which trucks use LNG instead of diesel oil. LNG is obtained by cooling natural gas to minus 163 C. Gas is condensed so that its volume is reduced up to 600 times, making it possible to be transported using cryogenic carts to places located far from oil ducts. To analyze the substitution of diesel with LNG, the investigation considered four scenarios. "Within the best scenario, the use of LNG would reduce fuel costs by up to 40%; equivalent CO2 emissions [a measure used to compare the potential heating effect among several greenhouse gases (GHGs), also known as CO2-eq] by 5.2%; particulate materials by 88%; nitrogen oxides (NOx) by 75%; and would eliminate hydrocarbon emissions," states Pedro Gerber Machado, a researcher at the University of Sao Paulo's Institute of Energy and Environment and coauthor of the article. "The methodology initially considered two contexts: one for the geographical regions served by gas pipelines, called the Restricted Scenario (RS), and another covering the 16 administrative regions of the state, called the State Scenario (SS). Both scenarios had different versions of the Blue Corridor, with 3,100 and 8,900 kilometers of roads, respectively," Machado explained. According to Machado, in the case of each scenario, two forms of LNG distribution were considered: the first one considered a centralized liquefaction with road distribution and generated two subscenarios, a State Scenario with Centralized Liquefaction (SSCL) and a Restricted Scenario with Centralized Liquefaction (RSCL). The second would perform the liquefaction locally in the region where it would be used, which would eliminate the need for distributing LNG on highways. From this scenario, two more subscenarios were derived: the State Scenario with Hybrid Local and Central Liquefaction (SSHL) and the Restricted Scenario with Local Liquefaction (RSLL). Cost comparison "The RSLL scenario presents the lowest average price difference for the consumer between LNG and diesel, which means that, in this case, the delivery process of LNG is more expensive, as influenced by the scale factor and greater operating costs," Machado explains. He continues, "The RSCL scenario offers the lowest gas price for the consumer, that is, 12 dollars per MMBTU (million British thermal units), whereas diesel, in this same scenario, would cost 22.01 dollars per MMBTU. The difference in price between LNG and diesel, in this scenario, is also the largest: 10.01 dollars per MMBTU." However, the RSLL scenario was designed within the context of a shorter corridor, where the investment would be US$ 243.40 per meter. This contrasts with the SSHL scenario, which has the lowest investment per meter of the four scenarios (US$ 122.10 per meter). Emissions avoided Machado explains that to calculate the GHG and pollutant emissions, only the two macroscenarios were considered: SS and RS. "When using LNG, the GHG emissions are different from diesel oil emissions due to CH4 and N2O, which are greenhouse gases with potential for global warming. If the fuel used is diesel, CO2 is responsible for 99% of the emissions of CO2-eq, and if the fuel used is LNG, it represents 82% of the CO2-eq emissions, while CH4 is responsible for 10% and N2O for 8%," he states. Regarding the GHG emissions generated by the logistics of transporting LNG, the worst-case scenario refers to the SSCL and corresponds to 1% of the total CO2-eq emitted with the use of trucks. In the SCHL, the logistics represent 0.34% of the emissions, and in the RSCL, the logistics correspond to 0.28% of the emissions. As for pollutants, in the RS scenario, 119,129 tons of emissions from particulate matter (PM) would be avoided: 7.3 million tons of NOx and 209,230 tons of hydrocarbon (HC). In the SS scenario, the benefits are even greater, with reductions of 163,000 tons of MP, 10 million tons of NOx, and 286,000 tons of HC. When one compares the burning of natural gas and diesel oil, the reduction of 5.2% in GHG emissions, which was observed in the State Scenario, might not be so great, but there are considerable reductions in local pollutants - NOx, PM, and HC saw reductions of 75%, 88%, and 100%, respectively. However, despite the economic and environmental advantages presented, LNG still faces regulatory barriers to its general use in the transportation sector. "It is not regulated to be used as a fuel for vehicles in Brazil. Most of the LNG used here is compressed natural gas (CNG)," states Professor Mouette. ### About Sao Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) The Sao Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) is a public institution with the mission of supporting scientific research in all fields of knowledge by awarding scholarships, fellowships and grants to investigators linked with higher education and research institutions in the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil. FAPESP is aware that the very best research can only be done by working with the best researchers internationally. Therefore, it has established partnerships with funding agencies, higher education, private companies, and research organizations in other countries known for the quality of their research and has been encouraging scientists funded by its grants to further develop their international collaboration. You can learn more about FAPESP at http://www.fapesp.br/en and visit FAPESP news agency at http://www.agencia.fapesp.br/en to keep updated with the latest scientific breakthroughs FAPESP helps achieve through its many programs, awards and research centers. You may also subscribe to FAPESP news agency at http://agencia.fapesp.br/subscribe. Scientists of Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (FEB RAS), Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) and National Taiwan University comprehended state of the art scientific knowledge about plants stress response activated by unfavorable environmental factors. Researchers proposed ways to improve crop plants stress resistance by developing one's heritable stress response memory which will allow preserving the stability of the yield obtained worldwide. A related review published in Trends in Plant Science. International biotechnology teams have long been taking actions to boost plants resistance to major stressors provoking crop loss like heat, cold, lack of/ excess of light, drought/excess of moisture, as well as various combinations of these factors. However, current methods are developed with no full consideration of the stress response mechanisms based on different variants of intercellular communication in plant organisms. Biotechnologists from FEFU, FEB RAS, and the National Taiwan University have scrutinized how the main mechanisms through which plant cells learn about the stressful situation and react to it -- abscisic acid (ABA) signal subsystems and heat shock proteins -- interact with each other. Scientists have pointed out that SWI/SNF proteins play an important role in the interaction between these subsystems., These proteins are responsible for remodeling of chromatin, i.e. the basis of chromosomes -- the ones where the vast majority of inherited information is concentrated, and which are intended for its storage, realization, and transfer. Ultimately, SWI/SNF proteins may be involved in the formation of a plants stress memory. They were proposed for bioengineering treatment aimed to increase the stress resistance of plants. 'SWI/SNF is a remodeling protein complex containing in all organisms whose cells have nuclei. This group of proteins is responsible for the way DNA is repackaged without changing its molecular structure. In plants, the complex is responsible for growth, development, reaction to stress and -- along with ABA and heat shock proteins signal subsystems that it binds -- for the stress memory formation. We studied scientific works related. Based on them, we proposed several ways to adjust the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling proteins, as well as the associated components of the signaling subsystems, with the goal to develop a memory about stress experienced by the plants of initial and subsequent generations. Thus, we are talking about the concept of plants "bioengineering memory", which will increase plant resistance to stress' Said Viktor Bulgakov, Doctor of Biological Sciences, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, FEFU Professor, who devised the concept of the article published. The scientist went on that the mechanism of plants memory about stress experienced and the transfer of the 'memories' from the first to the next generations is still a little-studied area, but research in this field is attracting great attention. In the article, scientists warn of temperance, which is necessary in bioengineering manipulations with the stress tolerance of plants. All methods should be as close as possible to the natural adaptation of plants to stress. 'For this, biotechnologists can use the most advanced genomic editing technologies. For example, the CRISPR-Cas9 method allows one to 'tweak' the function of the plant gene with no introducing alien information into the plant's DNA. This means that in Russia it will be possible to completely abandon GMOs in the sense it understood traditionally. Actually, this is the purpose of our work carried out under the grant. In the USA, products created via CRISPR-Cas9 technology are recognized as indistinguishable from natural selection products' Victor Bulgakov noted. Scientists also urge to take into account the phenomenon of plants 'memory' when planning all subsequent experiments to improve plants stress resistance. The hypothesis that traits acquired in one generation can be passed through to the next generations was first expressed by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in the 19th century. At the beginning of the 20th century, this prompted USSR Academician Lysenko to try to grow wheat in an unsuitable climate. The consequences of the experiment were devastating. Later, the concept of heredity of acquired traits was considered with a reasonable degree of skepticism, until its popularity was revived several years ago by progress in the field of genomics and epigenetics. It is now reliably known that the previous moderate impact may protect the plant from future stress or contribute to its acclimatization, which may persist until subsequent exposure. Thus, it is widely accepted that plants have the 'memory'-like ability. ### The research was supported by grants from the Russian Science Foundation (No. 18-44-08001) and the Ministry of Science and Technology of Taiwan (No. 105-2311-B-002-033-MY3 and No. 107-2923-B002-003-MY3). After years of making progress on an organic aqueous flow battery, Harvard University researchers ran into a problem: the organic anthraquinone molecules that powered their ground-breaking battery were slowly decomposing over time, reducing the long-term usefulness of the battery. Now, the researchers -- led by Michael Aziz, the Gene and Tracy Sykes Professor of Materials and Energy Technologies at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) and Roy Gordon, the Thomas Dudley Cabot Professor of Chemistry and Professor of Materials Science -- have figured out not only how the molecules decompose, but also how to mitigate and even reverse the decomposition. The death-defying molecule, named DHAQ in their paper but dubbed the "zombie quinone" in the lab, is among the cheapest to produce at large scale. The team's rejuvenation method cuts the capacity fade rate of the battery at least a factor of 40, while enabling the battery to be composed entirely of low-cost chemicals. The research was published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society. "Low mass-production cost is really important if organic flow batteries are going to gain wide market penetration," said Aziz. "So, if we can use these techniques to extend the DHAQ lifetime to decades, then we have a winning chemistry." "This is a major step forward in enabling us to replace fossil fuels with intermittent renewable electricity," said Gordon. Since 2014, Aziz, Gordon and their team have been pioneering the development of safe and cost-effective organic aqueous flow batteries for storing electricity from intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar and delivering it when the wind isn't blowing and the sun isn't shining. Their batteries use molecules known as anthraquinones, which are composed of naturally abundant elements such as carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, to store and release energy. At first, the researchers thought that the lifetime of the molecules depended on how many times the battery was charged and discharged, like in solid-electrode batteries such as lithium ion. However, in reconciling inconsistent results, the researchers discovered that these anthraquinones are decomposing slowly over the course of time, regardless of how many times the battery has been used. They found that the amount of decomposition was based on the calendar age of the molecules, not how often they've been charged and discharged. That discovery led the researchers to study the mechanisms by which the molecules were decomposing. "We found that these anthraquinone molecules, which have two oxygen atoms built into a carbon ring, have a slight tendency to lose one of their oxygen atoms when they're charged up, becoming a different molecule," said Gordon. "Once that happens, it starts of a chain reaction of events that leads to irreversible loss of energy storage material." The researchers found two techniques to avoid that chain reaction. The first: expose the molecule to oxygen. The team found that if the molecule is exposed to air at just the right part of its charge-discharge cycle, it grabs the oxygen from the air and turns back into the original anthraquinone molecule -- as if returning from the dead. A single experiment recovered 70 percent of the lost capacity this way. Second, the team found that overcharging the battery creates conditions that accelerate decomposition. Avoiding overcharging extends the lifetime by a factor of 40. "In future work, we need to determine just how much the combination of these approaches can extend the lifetime of the battery if we engineer them right," said Aziz. "The decomposition and rebirth mechanisms are likely to be relevant for all anthraquinones, and anthraquinones have been the best-recognized and most promising organic molecules for flow batteries," said Gordon. "This important work represents a significant advance toward low-cost, long-life flow batteries," said Imre Gyuk, Director of the Department of Energy's Office of Electricity Storage program. "Such devices are needed to allow the electric grid to absorb increasing amounts of green but variable renewable generation." ### This research was co-authored by Marc-Antoni Goulet, Liuchuan Tong, Daniel A. Pollack, and Daniel P. Tabor, all from Harvard; and Susan A. Odom of the University of Kentucky; and Ala?n Aspuru-Guzik of the University of Toronto. The research was supported by the Energy Storage program of the U.S. Department of Energy, the Advanced Research Projects Agency - Energy, the Innovation Fund Denmark, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center, and Harvard SEAS. With assistance from Harvard's Office of Technology Development (OTD), the researchers are seeking commercial partners to scale up the technology for industrial applications. Harvard OTD has filed a portfolio of pending patents on innovations in flow battery technology. Embedded at the end of chromosomes are structures called "telomeres" that in normal cells become shorter as cells divide. As the shortening progresses it triggers cell proliferation arrest or death. Cancer cells adopt different strategies to overcome this control mechanism that keeps track of the number of times that a cell has divided. One of these strategies is the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway, which guarantees unlimited proliferation capability. Now, a research group led by Claus M. Azzalin at Instituto de Medicina Molecular Joao Lobo Antunes (iMM; Portugal: https://imm.medicina.ulisboa.pt/en/investigacao/labs/azzalin-claus-m-lab/) has discovered that a human enzyme named FANCM (Fanconi anemia, complementation group M) is absolutely required for the survival of ALT tumor cells. The results were now published in the open access journal Nature Communications*. Future strategies targeting the activity of this molecule in ALT tumor cells can constitute the basis of a novel therapeutic protocol for the treatment of these tumors. ALT tumors are approximately 10% of the human tumors, and often develop in children (for example, juvenile osteosarcoma) and they are particularly resistant to conventional chemotherapy. "Contrary to the canonical telomere elongation mechanism that activates the enzyme telomerase, these tumor cells specifically use this alternative pathway which is insensitive to therapeutic approaches based on telomerase inhibition", explains Claus M. Azzalin, group leader at iMM. "Previous studies have shown that a sustained physiological telomere damage must be maintained in these cells to promote telomere elongation. This scenario implies that telomeric damage levels be maintained within a specific threshold that is high enough to trigger telomere elongation, yet not too high to induce cell death", says Bruno Silva, first author of this work. Using a series of molecular biology-, cell biology- and biochemistry-based experiments, the research team found an essential role for FANCM, a component of the DNA damage repair machineries of the cell. "What we have found is that ALT cells require the activity of the FANCM in order to prevent telomere instability and consequent cell death", says Bruno Silva. "When we remove FANCM from ALT tumor cells, telomeres become heavily damaged and cells stop dividing and die very quickly. This is not observed in tumor cells that express telomerase activity or in healthy cells, meaning that is a specific feature of ATL tumor cells", explains Claus M. Azzalin. "In our view, this is very exciting because it indicates that transiently drugging FANCM activity in ALT cells should lead to very fast cell death specifically in these cells, and sets the potential basis for an alternative therapeutic protocol for this type of tumors", adds Claus Azzalin. ### This study was developed at iMM in collaboration with the Genome Stability Unit and the Department of Medicine at St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research and University of Melbourne (Australia) and the Institute of Biochemistry at ETH Zu?rich (Switzerland). This study was supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation, the European Molecular Biology Organization, the Fundac?a?o para a Cie?ncia e a Tecnologia, the Cancer Council of Victoria, Australian National Health and Medical Research Council, the Buxton Trust and the Victorian Government's OIS Program. *Bruno Silva, Richard Pentz, Ana Margarida Figueira, Rajika Arora, Yong Woo Lee, Charlotte Hodson, Harry Wischnewski, Andrew J. Deans, and Claus M. Azzalin (2019) FANCM limits ALT activity by restricting telomeric replication stress induced by deregulated BLM and R-loops. Nature Communications. Doi: 10.1038/s41467-019-10179-z The German Research Foundation (DFG) has approved the extension of funding of the Transregional Collaborative Research Center "Waves to Weather" starting in July 2019. During this second funding period, the CRC/TRR 165 will be receiving some EUR 10 million. The consortium aims to understand and determine the limits of predictability of weather, which is challenging due to the chaotic nature of the atmosphere. "Scientific developments will help us understand the shortcomings of current weather forecast models. Using new concepts and methodologies we will pave the way towards better forecasts up to the limits of predictability," said Professor Volkmar Wirth of the Institute of Atmospheric Physics at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU). "We are addressing the challenge through this joint project, which is unique in Germany." The maximum funding period of the research project is 12 years. In addition to JGU, the consortium involves Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen acting as the coordinating university, the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, the Technical University of Munich, the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Heidelberg University, and Universitat Hamburg. At present, meteorologists can deliver reliable forecasts for a maximum range of seven to ten days. The costs saved as a result are in the billions every year, but most importantly forecasts help save the lives of numerous people. And yet there are sometimes very poor forecasts. The underlying reasons can be traced back to uncertain meteorological data and shortcomings of prediction methods. "We intend to combine our understanding of atmospheric dynamics and cloud physics, statistics, numerical modeling, and visualization techniques in order to pave the way towards better weather forecast models," emphasized Wirth. ### Tiny channels between nerve cells are involved in a newly discovered mechanism of how Parkinson's disease can spread throughout the brain, according to new research from Linkoping University, Sweden. The results demonstrate that harmful protein aggregates, or deposits, can bind and "hitch a lift" with channel-forming proteins, and in this way spread to healthy cells. The study has been published in Acta Neuropathologica. Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Huntington's disease, affect different regions of the human brain. Despite these regional differences, research has shown that the processes inside cells affected by these diseases have a lot in common. One characteristic of these diseases is that specific proteins start to form aggregates that damage and eventually kill the cell. In Parkinson's disease, it is misfolded forms of a protein known as -synuclein that are involved. These aggregates can recruit normal forms of -synuclein, causing the formation of more protein aggregates. "During the past few decades, we have realised that the protein deposits in the brain can spread between cells, acting as seeds that start a new aggregation cycle in the next cell. The disease in this way spreads in the brain in a manner similar to an infection. We want to understand how the protein spreads, and use this knowledge in the long term to inhibit the spread of disease in the brain", says Martin Hallbeck, associate professor in the Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine at Linkoping University and consultant in surgical pathology at Linkoping University Hospital. It has long been known that cells that lie close to each other can create small channels (known as gap junction channels) between them. These small channels are built from members of a family of proteins known as connexins. Studies by other scientists have suggested that connexins play a role in other types of disease, such as HIV/AIDS. This led the researchers at Linkoping University to wonder whether connexins can play a similar role in the spread of Parkinson's disease in the brain. "It turned out that the harmful protein aggregates in Parkinson's disease can bind to connexin-32, Cx32, and be absorbed by a cell. We are the first to demonstrate that connexins play a role in the uptake and transfer of disease-related proteins from one cell to another in Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy, a related disorder", says Juan Reyes, senior postdoc in Martin Hallbeck's research group and primary author of the article. The brain contains more than 10 connexins, but the study suggests that the protein deposits in Parkinson's disease interact with only one of them, Cx32. Details of the process by which the harmful proteins transfer from one cell to a neighbouring cell with the aid of the channel-forming protein remain unclear. The scientists do know that the channel created by connexin is too narrow for the protein aggregates to pass through. They have shown that the aggregates bind to the channel-forming protein Cx32 and sneak into the cell together with it. When the researchers inhibited the formation of channels in cells in culture, absorption of -synuclein was prevented. In experiments using brain tissue from four deceased patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, the scientists observed a direct binding between synuclein and connexin in two of the cases, which suggests that they interact with each other also in the Parkinsonian brain but not in normal brains. "We hope that connexin-32 can be used in the future as a target for drug treatment", says Martin Hallbeck. Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, after Alzheimer's disease. The condition is characterised by tremors, stiff muscles and difficulties is starting physical activity, which becomes slow. Cognitive symptoms are also common in later stages of the disease. When symptoms become apparent, a relatively large fraction of the nerve cells in the region of the brain affected have already died. No treatment is currently available to inhibit disease progression. ### The study has received financial support from, among others, the Swedish Research Council, the Swedish Brain Foundation, the Swedish Alzheimer's Foundation and the Ostergotland Research Foundation for Parkinson's Disease. The continuation of the study has also been awarded funding from the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. The article: Binding of -synuclein oligomers to Cx32 facilitates protein uptake and transfer in neurons and oligodendrocytes, Juan F. Reyes, Christopher Sackmann, Alana Hofmann, Per Sveningsson, Ju?rgen Winkler, Martin Ingelsson and Martin Hallbeck, 2019, Acta Neuropathologica, published online 11 April, doi: 10.1007/s00401-019-02007-x https://doi.org/10.1007/s00401-019-02007-x Children from undereducated, low-income families face a greater risk of poor academic performance. But schools are capable of decreasing these risks. Experts from the Higher School of Economics have studied international experience in addressing these challenges. The results have presented in Journal of Modern Foreign Psychology. Above Barriers Many international studies have demonstrated that family context impacts a child's school progress, showing a correlation between parents' socio-economic status and children's achievements. Low levels of education, income and cultural interest in the family often have a negative impact on the progress of school-age children and as a result may hinder their social mobility. However, strict predetermination is not inevitable. Children may overcome their circumstances and study well, expanding their opportunities in life. It is important to support such students and create a favourable school environment for them. Having studied the experience of Russian schools that achieved high results despite students' family circumstances, as well as similar practices in Great Britain, France, Germany, Spain, Ireland, Portugal, and Belgium, Sergey Kosaretsky, Aleksandra Mikhailova and Evgeny Isaev suggest some support measures in their paper. IQ.HSE selected some most interesting ideas to support socially vulnerable students. Subsidies and Monitoring Additional funding and remedial education are the most obvious approaches that many countries use to address these challenges. Schools that teach a large number of kids from families experiencing economic hardship are granted special subsidies or increased funding. It is often up to the schools to decide which areas should be supported. For example, schools can hire additional staff or pay bonuses to teachers who work with underachieving students. These additional funds can also be used to create advisory centres and expert teams. Money can be invested in professional development for teachers or to design language programmes for migrants' children. One example of an programme that provides additional funding is the London Challenge in Great Britain. This programme started locally but later evolved to include other regions. It focuses on socially vulnerable demographic groups and aims to prevent underachievement by working with low performers. Schools with mixed-ability students receive additional funding, which stimulates teaching and organization of additional classes. Remedial education includes programmes to develop basic literacy and arithmetic skills. But it also includes a system to monitor 'those who may lag behind and fall out of the system in order to minimize the risks of such students dropping out,' the researchers explained. In addition to these general measures to promote academic performance, different countries have their own national approaches with different areas of focus. Portugal: Preventing Drop-out A 2012 programme adopted in Portugal that aims to combat 'early drop-out from schools' is completely personalized in that underachieving students receive individual curricula. Children who risk failing the public exam in 4th and 6th grades receive additional classes and trial exams in order to determine their levels. Classes may be formed depending on academic performance, which allows underachievers to receive more targeted support. Belgium: Success Tutors Another country-specific option involves special teachers of success. In Belgium, schools with a large number of socially vulnerable students employ staff members who identify children who are at risk of academic failure and help them. Such support in different subjects is, in fact, a form of free tutoring, the authors explain. Ireland: Fighting Inequality Starting in Preschool In Ireland, the Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools programme has been in place since 2005. It aims to begin equalizing opportunities for education as early as preschool. Kids are offered a year of free studies before they go on to elementary school. Another programme, Home School Community Liaison, helps to build a liaison between the school and the family. A programme representative in the school is relieved of routine teaching duties, which allows him or her to focus on working with families that come from lower socio-economic backgrounds. This representative is responsible for building relations between parents and the school in order to better integrate the students. France: Psychophysiology Aid Priority Education is a programme that aims to improve the performance of students in school who are in difficult situations. The programme offers help not only from teachers, but also from doctors and psychologists. This French initiative bears resemblance to the Russian approach. According to the researchers, Russian teaching practice tends to 'detect psychophysiological and psychological (motivational and cognitive) qualities among underachieving school students.' Teachers in French schools covered by the programme communicate with parents regularly and undertake projects together with the students. They work personally with struggling students in small groups (this is of vital importance for the most troubled schools in the Priority Education Plus programme). Germany: Socialization in Clubs A correlation has been established between extracurricular activities and school performance. Teenagers who take part in clubs and other activities after classes feel more confident and study better. For students who come from families experiencing economic hardship and for migrant children, this is also a way to help with social engagement. Germany's federal educational authority has allocated over 30 million annually since 2013 to supporting extracurricular activities in families that come from disadvantaged backgrounds. The 'educational package' proposed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs also supports students from poor and undereducated families who are given an opportunity to attend clubs and excursions. Since 2004, Germany has actively developed 'full day' schools that offer kids after-school activities in an open format where they can do their homework or play. Six Ideas for Russia Based on international experience, the researchers suggest the following: Supporting students and schools of different levels is essential. Financial support should be made a priority, including special-purpose subsidies, bonuses and grants in exchange for schools' obligation to equalize students' performance. Schools should be able to administer funds independently. Focus should be made, for example, on continuing education for teachers. A rich educational environment is important: school days should be filled with additional classes on school subjects and extracurricular activities. Pro-family action is needed and can include granting personal certificates that socially vulnerable students can use to receive additional education. It makes sense to develop 'resilient school' practices, i.e., those aimed at exceeding expectations and that help students from challenging family backgrounds achieve high results. Such schools intensify the educational environment and have the ability to work with mixed-ability classes. Strong students are given optional classes, preparation for competitions, and subject-specific classes, while weaker students are provided supplementary courses. The teaching staff have high expectations of their students, which serves as additional motivation. Additionally, children are involved in the school's non-academic life, which also promotes performance. Independence and leadership are essential in school administration. Children study better at schools where headmasters are focused on teaching methods and solving internal challenges rather than following external regulations. Personalized educational trajectories that consider students' demands and interests are helpful. ### On the heels of the first definitive signs of the ozone layer recovery last year, an international team of scientists discovered that production and emission of a banned, potent ozone-depleting chemical is on the rise again. A new research finding, published in Nature on May 23, locates the source region for about half of those new emissions. Since 2013, they found that an increase of about 7000 tons per year of trichlorofluromethane, or CFC-11, added to the atmosphere originates from eastern China. On the heels of the first definitive signs of the ozone layer recovery last year, an international team of scientists discovered that production and emission of a banned, potent ozone-depleting chemical is on the rise again. A new research finding, published in Nature on May 23, locates the source region for about half of those new emissions. Since 2013, they found that an increase of about 7000 tons per year of trichlorofluromethane, or CFC-11, added to the atmosphere originates from eastern China. The Gosan GAW Regional Station The Gosan GAW Regional Station (Global Atmosphere Watch, program of the World Meteorological Organization) is located on the south-western tip of Jeju Island (Republic of Korea), facing the East China Sea. The station rests at the top of a 72 m cliff, about 100 km south of the Korean peninsula, 500 km northeast of Shanghai, China, and 250 km west of Kyushu, Japan. Credits: AGAGE Locating and identifying this particular source of CFC-11 was possible in part because of a NASA-supported monitoring network for atmospheric gases that has been in place since 1978. CFC-11 was one of the first generation of ozone-depleting substances banned by the Montreal Protocol, an international agreement signed by 196 countries to protect the stratospheric ozone layer. The ozone layer protects life on Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. CFC-11 was completely phased out of production in 2010. Its reappearance in the atmosphere will likely delay the recovery of the ozone layer. The discovery of increased CFC-11 emissions was first made by researchers in 2018 with observational data from the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii, part of an ongoing activity at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)'s Global Monitoring Division. In the United States, NASA and NOAA are charged with monitoring threats to the ozone layer under the 1990 amendment to the Clean Air Act. From 2012 onward, they found that CFC-11 concentration levels were not decreasing as fast as expected. Using computer models and other analysis techniques that simulated wind patterns and the movements of gases throughout the world, they determined that the increase in emissions was most likely from eastern Asia. The increase in emissions also suggested new production. The question was, where exactly did it come from? The monitoring station in Hawaii was too far from other land masses to be able to narrow down the origin beyond eastern Asia. The ozone research community turned to the Advanced Global Atmospheric Gas Experiment (AGAGE), a network of 15 monitoring stations set up around the world to measure 40 atmospheric gases that contribute to greenhouse warming and ozone depletion. The network operations are led by the Center for Global Change Science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. NASA funds five of these stations and provides basic infrastructure that supports the entire network, partnering with multinational environmental agencies and with station host countries of Ireland, Norway, Switzerland, Australia, Japan, and Korea. The network has produced a 40-year continuous data record of frequent measurements of some of the most difficult-to-detect trace gases in the atmosphere. "The primary way we monitor changes in ozone is through satellite observations," said Ken Jucks program manager for NASA's Upper Atmosphere Research Program at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "But it's much harder to measure ozone-depleting substances by satellite. A few of the CFCs can be measured from space, but not to the level of accuracy you need to understand their changes over time." Scientists need to be able to detect concentrations and concentration changes of much less than one part per trillion of ozone-depleting gases. This can only be done effectively with instruments on the ground. To find out where these gases are coming from, the observations also need to be made relatively close to the source of the emissions. Two newer stations fit the bill for observing East Asian emissions: the South Korean Gosan AGAGE station, run by Kyungpook National University in South Korea, and the AGAGE-affiliated station on Hateruma island in Japan, run by Japan's National Institute of Environmental Studies. "What you see in those data sets are basically pollution events," Jucks said. Pollution events coming from a localized source get diluted and harder to detect and trace back the farther they travel away from their origin. "As we're getting these observations in more populated areas, we basically get a data point an hour, which is a big advantage for these types of measurements compared to whole air gas samples," Jucks said, because that gives the modeling teams sufficient data to back-trace the gases to their source. The data observations of CFC-11 combined with atmospheric modeling by researchers at the University of Bristol, the UK Met Office, the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology determined that the most likely source of the CFC-11 was new production from China. When the AGAGE network was originally set up, the emphasis was on understanding the background levels of greenhouse and ozone-depleting gases and how they were transported through the atmosphere. With older stations set up farther from sources, researchers were able to get a better sense of the global concentrations and lifetimes of these gases - and how high or low those levels have gotten through time. This context is essential for monitoring current and future changes to CFC levels. "Without the record that goes back all this time it would be really difficult to fully understand with the modeling experiments what the CFCs have been doing," Jucks said. "It gives us a tight constraint for the changes seen in the atmosphere over the last 40 years. Without that we wouldn't be able to tell whether concentrations are changing as we expect them to over time." ### To learn more about this study, visit: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/news/2019/may/cfc-emissions.html Banner Photo: Map of AGAGE network https://agage.mit.edu/global-network Credit: AGAGE By: Ellen Gray NASA's Earth Science News Team Last Updated: May 24, 2019 Editor: Sara Blumberg Tags: Air, Earth, Goddard Space Flight Center Read Next Related Article National Aeronautics and Space Administration Page Last Updated: May 24, 2019 NASA Official: Brian Dunbar Peer-to-peer exchange on daily practice was at a peak throughout the 30th edition of the Course Paris, France, 24 May 2019. A total of 11,206 participants from over 120 different countries were present at the 30th edition of EuroPCR, the official meeting of the European Association for Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions (EAPCI). An additional 4,700 online learners connected to watch a selection of sessions that were made available both live and on replay via PCR Virtual Event on PCRonline.com. The World-Leading Course in interventional cardiovascular medicine has just come to a close in Paris, after gathering members of the community from across the globe. Five PCR Statements During the four-day Course, five PCR Statements were made on key issues in which there are important new or controversial results: EAPCI expert consensus on the clinical use of intracoronary imaging presented by T. Johnson Clinical outcomes after interventions with paclitaxel drug coated balloons presented by A. Lansky Percutaneous edge-to-edge repair in patients with heart failure and secondary mitral regurgitation presented by B. Prendergast Defining high bleeding risk in patients undergoing PCI: a consensus from the Academic Research Consortium for high bleeding risk presented by P. Urban Evolving indications for TAVI in patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis presented by S. Windecker Late-breaking Trials and Trial Updates sessions New developments and the latest data from internationally recognised trials were released at EuroPCR 2019 during Hot Line and Late-breaking Trial sessions. Among these, the following were highly anticipated: Mitral regurgitation after MitraClip implantation: relationship between residual mitral regurgitation and clinical and functional outcomes from the COAPT trial presented by S. Kar GLOBAL Leaders substudy: ticagrelor monotherapy in complex PCI (multivessel, long lesions, bifurcation) presented by P.W. Serruys Percutaneous edge-to-edge repair for tricuspid regurgitation: primary outcomes from the TRILUMINATE clinical trial presented by G. Nickenig Numerous studies presented at EuroPCR have simultaneously been published in EuroIntervention Journal and several high Impact Factor journals, including European Heart Journal, Circulation, JAMA Cardiology and JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions. Consensus documents EAPCI expert consensus on the clinical use of intracoronary imaging presented by T. Johnson and published in European Heart Journal (https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehz332) Defining high bleeding risk in patients undergoing PCI: a consensus from the Academic Research Consortium for high bleeding risk presented by P. Urban and published in European Heart Journal (Doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehz372) and Circulation (doi: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.119.040167) Drugs and Devices Synergy / PCR Algorithm sessions For the second year, dedicated sessions addressed drug selection, combination, timing of initiation, dosing and duration. Four of these led to PCR algorithms which are available on PCRonline: Optimal duration of DAPT post-stenting; Reperfusion in STEMI (thrombolysis and beyond); Peri-and post procedural antiplatelet therapy in a patient on systemic anticoagulation; De-escalation of P2Y12 blockers after ACS. https://www.pcronline.com/Cases-resources-images/Resources/Course-videos-slides/2019/drugs-and-devices-synergy-pcr-clinical-algorithms Use of technology for new educative tools During the LIVE demonstrations, a new 'smart screen' in the Main Arena allowed facilitators to capture snapshots of live images upon which they could hand-draw illustrations or notes to emphasise certain learning points. This technique was also used for the highly practical new Learning LIVE sessions that focused on rotational atherectomy, fluoro-CT for coronary interventions, bifurcation and step-by-step MitraClip procedure in secondary mitral regurgitation. In the new Simulation Based Learning Area, small groups of participants were able to benefit from hands-on workshops using simulators and realistic models. $200,000 USD grant for innovation Following the presentation of six shortlisted presentations from the PCR Call for Innovations, Dr. R Schwartz of the Jon DeHaan Foundation presented an award of $200,000 USD to Giora Weisz, for the submission Filterlex: Captis full body embolic protection for TAVI. https://www.pcronline.com/Courses/PCR-Innovators-Day-Paris/Submissions/Grant-for-Interventional-Innovation Abstracts and Clinical Cases The winners of the best submissions to EuroPCR: Best Clinical Case Competition A sound approach to calcium modification Conor McQuillan - Royal Victoria Hospital - Belfast, United Kingdom PCR's Got Talent Abstract Competition Stratified medicine in angina: can we improve health outcomes using an interventional diagnostic procedure? Tom Ford - University of Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre - Glasgow, United Kingdom Best Clinical Case Competition - Nurses and allied professionals Caring for patients and relatives in an acute situation - Dilemmas in the cathlab Sofie Koch Fahler - Rigshospitalet - Copenhagen, Denmark Best Abstract Competition - Nurses and allied professionals Is it SAfe to MObilise patients Very eARly after transfemoral cardiac catheterisation? SAMOVAR Marianne W. Noergaard - Rigshospitalet - Copenhagen, Denmark Andreas Gruntzig Ethica Award The Andreas Gruntzig Ethica Award was presented to Professor Jean Marco in recognition of his contribution to education in interventional cardiology during a moving ceremony where he received a standing ovation from his peers. https://www.pcronline.com/Courses/EuroPCR/About/ethica-award-ceremony From the opening ceremony of this 30th anniversary edition of EuroPCR and throughout, a strong emphasis was put on the importance of exchange between peers in a non-judgemental atmosphere, as companions. The Course managed to capture this spirit, encouraging all participants of the interventional community to share their knowledge, practice and experience. A new collaborative loyalty programme called PCR Companions was also launched in Paris and is open to all healthcare practitioners, free of charge. 1,800+ people have already signed up to the programme designed to build links within the community that go beyond education. Dates to remember AICT-AsiaPCR - 4-6 July 2019 - Singapore PCR London Valves - 17-19 November 2019 - London, UK EuroPCR - 19-22 May 2020 - Paris, France ### NOTES TO EDITORS About EuroPCR 2019 The World-Leading Course in interventional cardiovascular medicine and the official annual meeting of the European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions (EAPCI) took place from 21 to 24 May 2019 at the Palais des Congres - Paris, France. The detailed Course Programme is available on: https://www.pcronline.com/Courses/EuroPCR About PCR The mission of PCR is to serve the needs of each individual patient by helping the cardiovascular community to share knowledge, experience and practice. PCR offers a large range of many other educational meetings and resources for the continuing education of the interventional cardiovascular community. These include major annual Courses across the globe, e-Learning with high-profile PCR Webinars, Courses specifically dedicated to valvular heart disease, tailor-made PCR Seminars on specific topics, online resources and medical publications such as EuroIntervention, the official journal of the EAPCI. Gateways to all PCR activities are available on http://www.pcronline.com. For further information, please contact Ce?lia Vila?: cvila@europa-group.com INFORMATION FOR JOURNALISTS EuroPCR press releases can be found at https://www.pcronline.com/News/PCR-Press-Releases For any press-related enquiries, please contact EuroPCR Press Coordinator, Isabelle Uzielli: iuzielli@europcr.com Seven innovative research projects tackling pancreatic cancer have been awarded grants totalling 1.2M by the UK medical research charity, Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund (PCRF). This is the fourth year that the charity has been able to allocate over 1M for research projects and brings its project portfolio spend to over 9M, with an additional 2M committed to the world's first national pancreas tissue bank, created in 2016 to further accelerate research progress. The new projects span early diagnosis, potential new treatments and fundamental research to find out why immunotherapy does not yet work with pancreatic cancer. They include the progression of promising virotherapy research, a unique technology to tag unwanted proteins and trigger their destruction and testing whether machine learning techniques can help identify those at risk from developing the disease. Maggie Blanks, PCRF's founder and Chief Executive, said: "Research is the only way we'll find better ways of tackling pancreatic cancer and we need to keep pushing the boundaries of different research approaches. These projects involve new ideas, new technologies and new techniques that excited our Scientific Advisory Panel and we're keen to see what they deliver." The seven awards are: Dr Richard Clarkson, Cardiff University Normal cells are programmed to die if they become damaged or diseased in a process called apoptosis, but pancreatic cancer cells contain a molecule called c-FLIP which stalls this process. Dr Clarkson has shown in laboratory tests that blocking c-FLIP from working 'releases the brakes' on the anti-tumour process. He now wants to see if this works in mice with pancreatic tumours and will test new ways to block c-FLIP. Professor Laura Itzhaki, University of Cambridge Cells stay healthy by tagging faulty proteins with a molecule called ubiquitin that acts like an address label, sending the proteins to be destroyed by the cell's waste-disposal machinery. Prof Itzhaki has developed a technology that mimics this process, forcing ubiquitin to attach to selected proteins and trigger their destruction. This project will test if the technology can eliminate proteins produced by a faulty gene called KRAS, which is found in many pancreatic cancers. Dr Gunnel Hallden, Queen Mary University of London Dr Hallden is progressing her PCRF-funded research which aims to use a flu-like virus, delivered into the bloodstream, to seek out and infect pancreatic cancer cells wherever they are in the body. This project will identify new drugs that improve the ability of the virus to replicate inside the cancer cells and spread within the tumour, which should stimulate the immune system to provide long-term protection from the disease coming back. Dr Naomi Walsh, Dublin City University, Ireland Dr Walsh aims to design chemotherapy drugs that will target and kill types of cancer stem cells within pancreatic tumours that are responsible for drug resistance and relapse. These drugs are designed using new techniques which enable them to be transported directly into the cancer cells. This means that patients could be given smaller doses and experience fewer side effects. It may also allow more patients to benefit from these new treatments. Dr Laura Woods, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Dr Woods's project addresses the challenge of diagnosing pancreatic cancer earlier. She will apply 'machine learning' techniques to an historic, anonymised database of thousands of GP records to examine whether people who later developed pancreatic cancer shared similar early warning signs detectable before diagnosis. This could provide means of identifying a population of patients whom it would be cost-effective to screen, and increase the number of cancers diagnosed at a treatable stage. Professor Maeve Lowery, Trinity College Dublin Some pancreatic cancer patients have faults in genes involved in repairing DNA, such as the BRCA2 gene, which makes the cancer more likely to respond to certain treatments. Professor Lowery will study tumour samples to find changes in different regions of these genes and assess how this affects the response to drugs which target defective DNA repair. She hopes the results will inform a clinical trial where patients are matched with drugs most likely to benefit them. Professor Hemant Kocher, Queen Mary University of London Professor Kocher's project will investigate why immunotherapy - a treatment which harnesses the patient's immune system to kill cancer cells - works with some cancers but not with pancreatic cancer. The team will investigate how immune cells interact with each other and are either triggered or dampened in pancreatic cancer. The aim of this project is to determine the most effective way of combining immunotherapy and chemotherapy in future pancreatic cancer clinical trials. ### Only six months after a closely fought presidential election, Georgias political forces are repositioning themselves for the 2020 parliamentary elections. With Georgian Dreams popularity waning the party won landslides in previous votes the party may need support from conservative and ultra-nationalist political parties in order to form a majority government after 2020. The international community, concerned about the rise of pro-Russian and nationalist sentiment, will keenly watch the 2020 elections to see in which direction the country, and its process of democratization and Euro-Atlantic and European Integration, is heading. BACKGROUND: In November 2018, Salome Zurabishvili, a Georgian Dream-supported former foreign minister, became Georgias first female president. In a closely fought election, Zurabishvili won 59 percent of the vote with UNM rival Grigol Vashadze winning 40 percent. The runoff raised questions, not only over the strength of Zurabishvilis support, but also over the popularity of the ruling Georgian Dream party, which has consistently won large majorities since it first came to power in 2012. Six months after the elections, Georgian Dream is facing internal turmoil. Eight MPs, including the former head of the legal committee Eka Beselia, have left the party to sit as independents or join the pro-Russian, nationalist Alliance of Patriots party. In order to steady the ship, former Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of Georgian Dream, and former Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili have returned to the party as chairman and political secretary. Their return, and Georgian Dreams attempt to consolidate power, has taken place against a backdrop of democratic stagnation a far from inclusive constitutional amendment process, issues of judicial independence, police abuse, and a rise of fringe, pro-Russian, nationalist movements. Meanwhile, as Georgia heads for the 2020 elections, the top issues for the average voter are unequivocal employment, poverty, and prices and Georgian Dreams record in government on all three has been disappointing. IMPLICATIONS: Georgian Dreams internal party woes, inadvertently, have appeared to bring the countrys main opposition parties European Georgia (EG) and United National Movement (UNM) closer together. In March 2019, EG lost its official parliamentary minority status after the defection of eight MPs from GDs parliamentary majority faction. Two defectors joined the pro-Russian-nationalist Alliance of Patriots, while the other six MPs now sit as independents. Under the procedural rules of parliament, a party can form a parliamentary minority if it holds the majority of seats outside the majority grouping. EG currently is one seat short of such a majority. The subsequent loss of funding and additional speaking time in parliament are forcing EG to rethink its 2017 split from UNM, after months of intra-party dispute. The parties have reportedly been in talks to form a faction in parliament to regain parliamentary minority status. If both parties agree on forming a parliamentary faction, they will likely also contest the 2020 parliamentary elections as one single electoral block. Yet, despite Georgian Dreams seemingly decreasing popularity, and a catalogue of salient socio-economic issues to campaign on, a UNM/EG victory in 2020 is unlikely. Demonizing UNM for its record in office has been Georgian Dreams bread and butter since coming to power in 2012. The continued involvement of former President Mikheil Saakashvili has cast a shadow over the UNMs electoral chances. While it is understood that Saakashvili is standing down as UNM honorary chairman, it is questionable whether the party can shed Saakashvilis yoke and win over the electorate with many of his long-serving lieutenants still occupying prominent positions in both parties. The more pertinent question, though, is whether the parliamentary elections will result in an outright parliamentary majority for Georgian Dream, or whether the party will be forced to form a coalition with other electoral blocks. Such a coalition government would be a first for Georgia after the 2003 Rose Revolution. Apart from EG, UNM, Georgian Dream, and the Alliance of Patriots, parties such as the Labor Party and Democratic Movement United Georgia (DM-UG), led by former parliamentary speaker Nino Burjanadze, stand a chance of clearing the lowered, three-percent threshold, according to the latest polls by the U.S. National Democratic Institute. In the absence of any credible and popular alternatives, the likely outcome of next years parliamentary elections remains a reduced Georgian Dream majority in parliament. However, if Georgian Dream fails to gain a parliamentary majority in 2020, it would likely look to pro-Russian, nationalist parties such as the Alliance of Patriots of Georgia and UM-DG to form a coalition government. Georgian Dream considers the Alliance of Patriots of Georgia an ally whose interests in opposing UNM/EG coincide with its own. Such a coalition would stoke fears among the international community of a geopolitical and cultural reorientation and jeopardize Georgias process of democratic consolidation and European and Euro-Atlantic integration. On foreign policy, a Georgian Dream-led nationalist-conservative government would likely maintain, and possibly further soften, its pragmatic, but principled approach to Russia. This policy of normalizing relations with Russia has been a central tenet of Georgian Dreams foreign policy since 2012. As a result the Georgian government has downplayed its rhetoric, while economic ties with Russia have improved. While it remains unlikely that a Georgian-Dream led nationalist-conservative government would make concessions regarding Georgias Russian-occupied territories, such a government can be expected to become even less active in pursuing conflict-related issues internationally and bilaterally. Domestically, a Georgian Dream-led nationalist-conservative coalition government would facilitate Russias soft power policy in Georgia. The latest annual report of Georgias State Security Service, the countrys domestic intelligence agency, warned that foreign adversaries are encouraging anti-Western sentiments in Georgia and aim to polarize Georgian society. The number of Russian-funded NGOs and news outlets linked to Russia has increased in recent years. Xenophobic, ultra-nationalist groups, such as Georgian March, have organized several demonstrations over the past year, and have mounting ambitions. They appear to have the Georgian Dream governments tacit approval and have acted with impunity on several occasions. Meanwhile, the 2020 elections coincide with the end of an era in EU-Georgia relations after Georgia recently obtained EU visa free travel and concluded an Association Agreement with the EU. With the potential benefits of the EUs Eastern Partnership exhausted, and new perspectives on further integration lacking, a lack of tangible, immediate benefits from the AA/DCFTA could stall the legislative efforts of a Georgian Dream-led government to implement the reforms mandated by the EU. CONCLUSIONS: If Georgian Dream would lose its majority in parliament in next years elections, this could paradoxically lead it to take a more conservative course by seeking support from conservative and ultra-nationalist groups, within and outside parliament, against a common adversary: UNM/EG. This may consolidate Georgian Dreams hold on power but will do little to address the socio-economic concerns of Georgian citizens, the reforms demanded by its main trading partner, the EU, and the threat of Russias soft power in Georgia. Georgian Dream may well win next years battle, but eventually lose the war for Georgias future. AUTHORS BIOS: Casper Wuite worked as an election observer in Georgia between 2016 and 2017. Prior to this, he worked on foreign and security policy for the European Union, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Lowy Institute, an international think tank. He holds an MSc degree in Politics and Government from the London School of Economics. Image Source: creative commons via Wikimedia Commons accessed on 5.24.2019 WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - The co-founder of Purdue University-affiliated life sciences startup Phytoption LLC has been selected to participate next month in a global summit bringing together top entrepreneurs and innovators from across the world. Joanne Zhang was selected by organizers of the Global Entrepreneurship Summit to attend the event in June in Hague, the Netherlands. The U.S. government, which started the summit nearly a decade ago, will sponsor Zhang's attendance at the event. Zhang is a co-founder of Phytoption, which is transforming agricultural commodities to highly functional ingredients for food, cosmetics and drug applications. The summit, being held for the first time this year in the European Union, brings together entrepreneurs, innovators, investors and thought leaders from around the world. The summit is a combination of an innovation marketplace and policy forum. "This is an incredible honor and opportunity to represent our company and U.S. innovators," Zhang said. "I am looking forward to creating new connections and finding new opportunities to create change in our industries." Phytoption licensed technologies from the Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Commercialization and has been developing phytoglycogen-based biomaterials for use in the personal care and pharmaceutical industries. Phytoption's other innovation, cereal-based natural flours, is meeting the unmet needs for clean-label food emulsifiers and texturants in the food and beverage industry, with over $10 billion market potential. Phytoption, located in the Purdue Research Park of West Lafayette, has received support from the Purdue Research Foundation's Foundry Investment Fund to advance to commercial viability. ### 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 Technology Centers. 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 about funding and investment opportunities in startups based on a Purdue innovation, contact the Purdue Foundry at foundry@prf.org. Writer: Chris Adam, 765-588-3341, cladam@prf.org Source: Joanne Zhang, joanne.zhang@phytoption.com INDIANAPOLIS - Regenstrief Institute research scientist Noll Campbell, PharmD, M.S. has received a five-year $3.3 million award from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) to conduct the first clinical trial designed to determine if stopping anticholinergic medications results in sustained improvements in cognition. Anticholinergic medications have been linked to worsening cognition over time, including the diagnosis of dementia, in several prior observational studies. If the study team finds that reducing or discontinuing the use of these commonly prescribed drugs among current users improves brain health without adversely impacting other medical conditions, the team will have identified a way to decrease an estimated 50,000 new cases of dementia annually in the United States alone. Anticholinergics, drugs which affect the brain by blocking acetylcholine, a nervous system neurotransmitter that influences memory, alertness and planning skills, are prescribed for many conditions common in older adults including depression, urinary incontinence, irritable bowel syndrome and Parkinson's disease. These medications are used by approximately one in four older adults each year, and nearly half of older adults have used this type of medication at least once in a five-year period. "In several studies conducted to date, we and many other researchers around the world have found a correlation between anticholinergics and cognitive impairment, but this will be the first randomized clinical trial to determine whether reducing or stopping these medications improves cognition, which would establish a true causal relationship between anticholinergics and dementia," said Dr. Campbell. "At the end of the trial, if we find that stopping anticholinergics improves brain health without negative consequences on other aspects of their health, we will have demonstrated a mechanism to improve cognition and potentially delay or prevent dementia in a subset of older adults." In the "Reducing Risk of Dementia through Deprescribing" study -- R2D2 for short - clinical pharmacists will work with physicians and their patients who are current users of anticholinergics to identify and switch to safer alternative medications. R2D2 will enroll 344 older adults who are currently using at least one anticholinergic medication to determine the impact of deprescribing on cognition at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. The trial, which will be conducted at Eskenazi Health and Indiana University Health, will also monitor the effect of deprescribing on depression, anxiety, pain, insomnia, and quality of life. Despite growing awareness of adverse cognitive effects linked to anticholinergics, there has been no decline in prevalence of anticholinergic prescriptions over the last two decades. However, as Dr. Campbell has noted, it is not yet known whether stopping these medications in current users results in acute and sustained improvements in cognition. "In addition to determining whether there is a cause and effect relationship between anticholinergics and cognitive impairment, this study will give us insight into whether pharmacists working with physicians can be more successful than physicians alone in taking patients off anticholinergics," said Dr. Campbell. "From this study, which aims to both improve clinical outcomes and optimize the role of pharmacists in primary care settings, we will learn a lot about the clinical and operational impact of pharmacist-driven deprescribing practices in primary care." ### In addition to Regenstrief research scientist Dr. Campbell, who is an assistant professor of pharmacy practice in Purdue University's College of Pharmacy, other investigators on the team include Regenstrief Institute investigator Malaz Boustani, M.D., MPH, Fred Unverzagt, Ph.D., Sujuan Gao, Ph.D., and Chris Steinmetz, M.D. All are faculty of the Indiana University School of Medicine. High-temperature (Tc) superconductivity typically develops from antiferromagnetic insulators, and superconductivity and ferromagnetism are always mutually exclusive. Recently, Xianhui Chen's group at University of Science and Technology of China observed an electric-field controlled reversible transition from superconductor to ferromagnetic insulator in (Li,Fe)OHFeSe thin flake. This work offers a unique platform to study the relationship between superconductivity and ferromagnetism in Fe-based superconductors and may provide some clue about understanding the electron pairing mechanism beyond conventional electron-phonon superconductivity. The relationship between superconductivity and magnetism is key to understanding the electron pairing mechanism beyond conventional electron-phonon superconductivity. Controlling the magnetism near the superconducting region could explain the competing or intertwined electronic states in superconducting and magnetic phases. Modulating carrier density via field electric transistors (FET) is one of the most effective ways to manipulating the collectively ordered electronic states in condensed matter physics. However, only the carrier concentration on the surface of materials can be tuned with conventional gating technique and controlling the charge density in the bulk is plagued due to the Thomas-Fermi screening. Recently, a new type of FET has been developed using solid ion conductor (SIC) as the gate dielectric. In such a SIC-FET, the electric field can not only tune the carrier density to induce electronic phase transitions, but also drive ions into a crystal to transform it from one crystalline phase to another. By this new developed gating technique, Xianhui Chen's group at University of Science and Technology of China observed an electric-field controlled reversible transition from superconductor to ferromagnetic insulator in (Li,Fe)OHFeSe thin flake. Using SIC-FET, Li ions can be driven into or extracted out from the (Li,Fe)OHFeSe thin flake by electric field. When the Li ions are initially driven into the thin flake, Li ions replace the Fe in the hydroxide layers and the Fe ions expelled by Li can migrate away from the hydroxide layers to fill the vacancies in the selenide layers. Once the vacancies are filled, the thin flake achieves the optimal Tc ~ 43 K. With further Li injection, the Fe ions extruded from the hydroxide layers migrate to the interstitial sites, and then the interstitial Fe ions become ordered and eventually lead to a long-range ferromagnetic order. So, a dome-shaped superconducting phase with optimal Tc (= 43 K) is continuously tuned into a ferromagnetic insulating phase, which exhibits an electric-field-controlled quantum critical behavior. The device is fabricated on a solid ion conductor, which can reversibly manipulate collectively ordered electronic states of the materials and stabilize new metastable structures by electric field. This work paves a way to access metastable phases and to control structural phase transformation as well as physical properties by the electric field. These surprising findings offer a unique platform to study the relationship between superconductivity and ferromagnetism in Fe-based superconductors. This work also demonstrates the superior performance of SIC-FET in regulating the physical properties of layered crystals and its potential applications for multifunctional devices. ### This work is supported by the National Key R & D Program of China (Grant Nos.2017YFA0303001 and 2016YFA0300201), the Strategic Priority Research Program (B) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (Grant No.XDB25010100), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 11888101, 11534010), Science Challenge Project (Grants No. TZ2016004) and Hefei Science Center CAS (2016HSC-IU001). See the article: Likuan Ma, Bin Lei, Naizhou Wang, Kaishuai Yang, Dayong Liu, Fanbao Meng, Chao Shang, Zeliang Sun, Jianhua Cui, Changsheng Zhu, Tao Wu, Zhe Sun, Liangjian Zou, Xianhui Chen. Electric-field controlled superconductor-ferromagnetic insulator transition. Science Bulletin, 2019, 64(10) 653-658. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095927319302269 Spin is a fundamental physical quantity that describes a specific type of angular momentum. Take the motion of the Earth as an example, the spin of the Earth characterizes the angular momentum associated with the rotation about the Earth axis. This classification distinguishes the Earth self-rotation from the angular momentum resulted from the orbiting around the Sun known as orbital angular momentum. In particle physics, the spin carried by the fundamental particles helps categorize them as Fermions and Bosons. Electrons with spin are Fermions that follows the Pauli Exclusion Principle. On the other hand, photons with spin 1 following Boson-Einstein distribution are Bosons. The spins of photons (optical waves) are characterized by the rotation of their polarization, which usually exists in circular polarized light. For acoustic waves propagating in fluids, it is commonly considered as spinless due to the longitudinal wave nature. Without the existence of acoustic spin, many interesting spin-related phenomena such as quantum spin Hall effect and spin-momentum locking are difficult to be realized for sound waves that normally require enormous design effort to create pseudospin modes. Recently, Chengzhi Shi (now at Georgia Tech), Rongkuo Zhao, Sui Yang, Yuan Wang, and Xiang Zhang from the University of California, Berkeley and Long Yang, Hong Chen, and Jie Ren from Tongji University discover and experimentally observe the existence of acoustic spin in airborne sound waves. This breakthrough is recently published in National Science Review (NSR). The discovered acoustic spin was observed in the interference of two perpendicular propagating acoustic beams and evanescent sound waves propagating along a groove waveguide. For two perpendicular acoustic beams, each of them contributes to a component of the local particle velocity field that characterizes the polarization of the sound wave. When these two local particle velocity components are 90 degrees out-of-phase, the particle velocity vector rotates, resulting in acoustic spin as shown in Fig. 1. This acoustic spin was applied to generate a torque that controls the rotation of a particle remotely. In evanescent sound waves, the acoustic spin interlocks with the wave vector such that sound waves with clockwise spin propagate only towards the right, while counterclockwise spin sound waves propagate only towards the left. This acoustic spin-momentum locking property will be critical for acoustic communication. This ground-breaking discovery of acoustic spin will lay the foundation of the development of acoustic spin-related physics that will be significant for emerging topics in fundamental physics and acoustics. The work is supported by the Office of Naval Research (ONR) MURI Program, the Georgia Tech Faculty Startup Funding, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the National Key Research Program of China. ### See the article: Chengzhi Shi, Rongkuo Zhao, Yang Long, Sui Yang, Yuan Wang, Hong Chen, Jie Ren, Xiang Zhang Observation of acoustic spin Natl Sci Rev (May 2019) doi: 10.1093/nsr/nwz059 https://doi.org/10.1093/nsr/nwz059 An international type model of a university alliance will be established between Karolinska Institutet, KTH and Stockholm University. The aim is to strengthen the development of the Stockholm region and to highlight the internationally distinguished research and education environment that the three universities constitute together. An agreement will be signed on 27 May that will make it easier for the three universities in the Swedish capital to enter into joint collaborations with universities around the world. Karolinska Institutet, KTH and Stockholm University are all strong universities in their respective fields. The three universities form a complete academic environment that stands up very well in an international context. Among other things, the agreement, which will be signed by the three Presidents on Monday, 27 May, aims at creating new conditions for university-wide research and education, emphasising the pre-eminent academic environment that the parties constitute together and strengthening activities funded at the universities. "With broadly speaking coherent campuses and a dynamic academic environment, our universities constitute an important prerequisite for not only research and education but also growth in the Stockholm region," says Astrid Soderbergh Widding, President of Stockholm University. A large number of close collaborations between the three Stockholm universities have existed for a long time in several areas. SciLifeLab, one of Europe's largest research centres for molecular biology, is an example where Uppsala University, together with the Stockholm universities and national infrastructure, have been able to quickly establish an internationally leading research environment. By acting as a common player, the Stockholm trio have also recently concluded a cooperative agreement with Tokyo University, a kind of cooperation that will become increasingly important in the future. "Together, we can use our resources in a more efficient way and promote interaction between different disciplines and thereby increase the quality of our research and education," says Ole Petter Ottersen, President of Karolinska Institutet. The aim of the agreement is not a future merger of the universities, but some joint functions will be set up for the Stockholm trio, e.g. a co-ordinating secretariat. "We want to show the potential of this cooperation and how the strengthening of the overall academic environment in Stockholm will benefit the city, the region and Sweden," says Sigbritt Karlsson, President of KTH. ### Group leader at DTU Biosustain and co-founder of BioPhero, Irina Borodina, was awarded the prestigious 2019 EU Prize for Women Innovators at an official ceremony at the VivaTech Conference in Paris In a group of 12 nominees, Irina Borodina, was selected as one of the three winners of the 2019 EU Prize for Women Innovators, funded under the EU's Horizon 2020 programme. The prize highlights the outstanding work of female entrepreneurs who have translated innovations into successful start-up companies with a large potential societal impact. Irina Borodina receives the prize for her efforts with the DTU Biosustain spin-out company BioPhero that produces insect pheromones for safe and environmentally friendly pest control in agriculture. Irina co-founded BioPhero together with Michael Lentge Andersen in 2016, based on the novel patented technology for production of pheromones using yeast fermentation. In 2018, BioPhero received a 3M venture capital investment to bring pheromones to the market. "It is a big honor to receive this prize and it provides high visibility and credibility around our work, which hopefully will attract talented scientists and students to join and collaborate with BioPhero and with DTU Biosustain. Even more importantly, I hope that the stories of female innovators will inspire more women to realise their ideas and innovations," says Irina Borodina. New figures also show that women in top positions inspire more women to follow the leadership path. Currently, 84% of European start-up founders are males, but there are strong drivers towards more gender equity in entrepreneurship, according to Irina Borodina. Furthermore, a new analysis from Boston Consulting Group shows that startups that have female co-founders performed better than male-only-founded startups over time, generating double as much revenue per invested dollar. The other two winners of the 2019 EU Prize for Women Innovators are: Martine Caroff (France), founder and CSO of two biotechnological companies: LPS-BioSciences, which specialises in bacterial endotoxins for vaccines, in vitro diagnostic, cosmetics, and medical devices; and HEPHAISTOS-Pharma, which develops immunotherapy for oncology. Shimrit Perkol-Finkel (Israel), co-founder and CEO of ECOncrete Tech, a company offering high-performance and environmentally sensitive solutions that enhance the biological and ecological value of urban, coastal, and marine infrastructures. ### The team interviewed over 1,700 people from the Augsburg area of Germany about their allergies. Led by Claudia Traidl-Hoffmann, Director of the University Center for Health Sciences at University Hospital Augsburg (UNIKA-T) and Professor of Environmental Medicine at TUM, the team differentiated between perennial or non-seasonal allergies - such as those triggered by house dust mites or animal hair, seasonal allergies caused by grass pollen for instance, and allergies to other substances such as food. The study participants also answered questions about their psychological health. The focus here was on depression, generalized anxiety disorders - which affect all aspects of daily life - and acute mental stress. "There are studies that focus on the psychological components of skin diseases or allergic asthma. For the first time, we are now able to show a connection with seasonal allergies," explains Katharina Harter, the publication's lead author. Around a quarter of those surveyed (27.4%) stated that they suffered from allergies, with 7.7 percent reporting perennial, 6.1 percent seasonal, and 13.6 percent other forms of allergic reactions. Proven influence of psychological factors It turned out that people with generalized anxiety disorders also suffered more often from pollen allergies, but not from year-round allergies. Statistically, these were actually less frequent in the group of anxiety sufferers. A possible explanation for this might be that people with persistent allergies develop different coping strategies to deal with stress, which protect them from anxiety disorders. On the other hand, there was a positive correlation between perennial allergies and depression or depressive episodes. However, the structure of the study did not allow for clarification of whether allergies increase susceptibility to depression or whether depression itself is a risk factor for allergies. What surprised the research team was the fact that psychological factors had little - if any - influence on the occurrence of food and drug allergies. Further investigation planned Possible mitigating factors that could compromise causal relationships were statistically excluded in this study. These included age, smoking/non-smoking status, gender, and family predispositions (e.g. to allergic asthma). However, Harter also outlines the study's weaknesses: "We have a relatively high average age of 61 years, so younger people are rather underrepresented here. The findings are also based on personal reports rather than official allergy diagnoses. But we have blood samples from all participants and intend to scientifically verify this point," she confirms. According to Prof. Traidl-Hoffmann, what this study particularly underscores is the importance of devoting sufficient time to patients. This is the only way to complement clinical evaluations with psychosocial aspects to support an integrated therapeutic approach, such as that practiced by the University Outpatient Clinic for Environmental Medicine at UNIKA-T. ### The study data was collected in the second follow-up to the KORA S4 study. Based in Augsburg, Germany, the University Center for Health Sciences at University Hospital Augsburg, UNIKA-T, is a research association jointly supported by the University Hospital Augsburg, the University of Augsburg, the Technical University of Munich (TUM), and the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU). The current study was supported by the Chair of Epidemiology at UNIKA-T. Publication Katharina Harter, Gertrud Hammel, Lisa Krabiell, Birgit Linkohr, Annette Peters, Lars Schwettmann, Johannes Ring, Hamimatunnisa Johar, Karl-Heinz Ladwig, Claudia Traidl-Hoffmann, Different Psychosocial Factors Are Associated with Seasonal and Perennial Allergies in Adults: Cross-Sectional Results of the KORA FF4 Study, International Archives of Allergy and Immunology, April 2019, DOI: 10.1159/000499042 https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/499042 Contact Prof. Claudia Traidl-Hoffmann Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine Technical University of Munich and the University Center for Health Sciences at University Hospital Augsburg - UNIKA-T Phone: +49 (0)821 - 598 6411 claudia.traidl-hoffmann(at)tum.de Profile of Prof. Claudia Traidl-Hoffmann Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine New study based on records of nearly half a million births in Canada reveals link between first-trimester fainting episodes and problems like preterm births and low birth weight Women have long been told fainting is a common but harmless symptom of pregnancy, but new research shows it may indicate issues for both the baby and mother's health, especially when it occurs during the first trimester. The study--conducted by a team of cardiology researchers that included University of Alberta senior epidemiologist Padma Kaul and University of Calgary cardiology trainee Safia Chatur--was published in the Journal of the American Heart Association. Cardiology researcher Padma Kaul said she wants to see fainting included with other pregnancy-induced conditions like pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes as a warning sign for mothers' cardiovascular health. (Photo: Supplied) Cardiology researcher Padma Kaul said she wants to see fainting included with other pregnancy-induced conditions like pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes as a warning sign for mothers' cardiovascular health. (Photo: Supplied) Researchers reviewed birth records of 481,930 babies born in Alberta between 2005 and 2014, as well as medical records of the mothers for one year after delivery, looking for frequency, timing and outcomes of fainting episodes. The team found roughly one per cent of expectant mothers fainted--about a third of those during the first three months of pregnancy. Among the pregnancies where fainting occurred during the first trimester, the research team observed higher rates of preterm births, and an increase in heart problems and further fainting episodes for the mothers. There was also an increase in congenital anomalies such as low birth weight among the babies when the mothers had passed out more than once. Fainting, technically known as syncope, is a temporary loss of consciousness, usually caused by low blood pressure and a lack of oxygen in the brain. Pregnancy hormones can cause the heart rate and blood supply to increase, while blood vessels relax, all of which can lead to dizziness and fainting. Women who faint during pregnancy should report it to their doctors, said Kaul, and their physicians should monitor the women and their babies more closely. Kaul said fainting should be added to the list of pregnancy-induced conditions such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes that can be considered warning signs for women's health. "Pregnancy is a natural stress test for the woman's system," she said. "Fainting during pregnancy may identify women who are at higher risk of cardiovascular complications down the road." Kaul said the researchers were surprised by the findings. "Fainting is a relatively rare event and nobody has studied it systematically at a population level," she said. "Generally clinicians thought it was fairly benign. So that's what we were expecting to find." Until now, research about fainting during pregnancy relied on anecdotal reporting and a small number of case studies. The pattern of issues for mothers and babies was only revealed when researchers were able to review a large number of birth records from a 10-year time period. "Our study is significant because it's truly population-based. In Canada, thanks to universal health care, we're counting everyone," she explained. Kaul is a professor of medicine and a member of the Women & Children's Health Research Institute. Along with one of her co-authors, Roopinder Sandhu, a cardiac electrophysiologist at the U of A, Kaul is developing the Canadian Syncope Atlas for the Cardiac Arrhythmia Network of Canada, which also funded the research on fainting during pregnancy. The atlas will map out the prevalence of fainting across the country, cost to the health-care system, social determinants and outcomes. While a large proportion of the population faints at some point in their lifetime, the underlying causes can be difficult to diagnose and can range from life-threatening to benign. "I can imagine that it's a really scary event during pregnancy," said Kaul. She hopes to see the research on fainting during pregnancy replicated in other countries where similar large sets of population data are available, to confirm the findings. She warned that while the study shows a correlation between fainting and health issues for mothers and babies, it can't pinpoint causes or pre-existing conditions that might be responsible. "It's a chicken-and-egg problem, so the associations need to be worked out through further study," Kaul said. ### Scientists from the University of Bonn and the Sirindhorn Museum in Thailand have identified two new dinosaur species. They analyzed fossil finds that were already discovered 30 years ago in Thailand. Both species are distant relatives of T. rex, but with a somewhat more primitive structure. They were efficient predators. The results have now been published in the journal Acta Palaeontologica Polonica. Three decades ago a Thai museum employee discovered some fossilized bones during excavations. He handed them over to the Sirindhorn Museum, where they were never examined in detail. "Five years ago I came across these finds during my research," explains Adun Samathi. The Thai paleontologist is currently doing his doctorate at the Steinmann Institute of Geology, Mineralogy and Paleontology at the University of Bonn. He brought some casts of the fossils here to analyze them together with his doctoral supervisor Prof. Dr. Martin Sander using state-of-the-art methods. The results take a new look at the history of the megaraptors ("giant thieves"). The relatives of this group of carnivorous predatory dinosaurs include the Tyrannosaurus rex. Like the T. rex, they ran on their hind legs. Unlike the tyrant lizard, however, their arms were strong and armed with long claws. They also had more delicate heads that ended in a long snout. "We were able to assign the bones to a novel megaraptor, which we baptized Phuwiangvenator yaemniyomi," explains Samathi. The name is reminiscent on the one hand of the location, the Phuwiang district, and on the other hand of the discoverer of the first Thai dinosaur fossil, Sudham Yaemniyom. Phuwiangvenator was probably a fast runner. With a length of about six meters, it was considerably smaller than the T. rex, who measured about twelve meters. Megaraptors have so far been discovered mainly in South America and Australia. "We have compared the Thai fossils with the finds there," says Samathi. "Various characteristics of Phuwiangvenator indicate that it is an early representative of this group. We take this as an indication that the megaraptors originated in Southeast Asia and then spread to other regions." During his research in Thailand, the doctoral student discovered further unidentified fossils. They also belong to a predatory dinosaur, which was a bit smaller with a length of about 4.5 meters. The material was not sufficient to clarify the exact ancestry. However, scientists assume that smaller dinosaur, named Vayuraptor nongbualamphuenisis, is also related to Phuwiangvenator and T. rex. "Perhaps the situation can be compared with that of African big cats," explains Samathi. "If Phuwiangvenator were a lion, Vayuraptor would be a cheetah." The two new predatory dinosaurs will be presented to the public today on the tenth anniversary of the Sirindhorn Museum. With blue-blooded support: The event will be opened by the Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. ### Publication: A. Samathi, P. Chanthasit and P. M. Sander: Two new basal coelurosaurian theropod dinosaurs from the Lower Cretaceous Sao Khua Formation of Thailand. Acta Palaeontologica Polonica, DOI: https://doi.org/10.4202/app.00540.2018 Contact: Adun Samathi Steinmann Institute of Geology, Mineralogy and Paleontology University of Bonn E-mail: asamathi@gmail.com Prof. Dr. Martin Sander Steinmann Institute of Geology, Mineralogy and Paleontology University of Bonn Tel. +49(0)228/733105 E-mail: martin.sander@uni-bonn.de Understanding the structure of the FoxM1 protein and how it works could guide development of new cancer-fighting drugs Unregulated cell division is a hallmark of cancer, and one of the key proteins involved in controlling cell division is called FoxM1. Abnormal activation of FoxM1 is a common feature of cancer cells and is correlated with poor prognosis, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy. Now researchers at UC Santa Cruz have determined the structure of this protein--a kind of "master switch" for cell division--in its inactive or "off" conformation. This new understanding of the structure of FoxM1 could ultimately be used to design new drugs that stabilize the protein in its inactive state and thereby stop the uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells. Seth Rubin, professor of chemistry and biochemistry at UC Santa Cruz, explained that FoxM1 is a "transcription factor," a protein that controls the activity of specific genes. "When a cell is going to divide, there are a bunch of proteins that need to be made, and FoxM1 controls all the genes for those proteins," Rubin said. "Because cancer cells are proliferating and dividing all the time, they need to activate FoxM1, so it has long been a target for drug development." The new study involved a close collaboration between Rubin's lab and that of Nikolaos Sgourakis, assistant professor of chemistry and biochemistry. After determining the structure of the protein in the "off" state, the team then figured out how it switches from the inhibited conformation to the activated or "on" state. The researchers published their findings May 28 in the journal eLife. The study revealed that two separate domains of the FoxM1 protein interact and bind together in the inhibited conformation. The study also showed that the two domains separate and lose their structure when the protein is activated. Most proteins fold into an orderly three-dimensional structure that is key to their function, but some proteins function as disordered linear molecules with no particular 3D structure. "One thing a disordered state is good at is interacting with other proteins," Rubin said. "With FoxM1, the inactive state is all folded up on itself. When it gets activated it becomes disordered, and then it can recruit the other proteins needed to turn on gene expression. That's something that hasn't been seen before, and it may be a general mechanism for how transcription factors switch from the off state to the active state." It was known from previous studies that FoxM1 is activated by kinase enzymes, which add phosphoryl groups to specific sites on the protein. Rubin's team found that phosphorylation of FoxM1 at one particular site causes the dissociation of the two domains and that both domains then become structurally disordered. "Knowing the structure of the inhibited state of the protein really opens up a pathway to search for compounds that can stabilize it," Rubin said. "And beyond drug development, in terms of the understanding of how transcription factors work, the discovery of this transition from an ordered to a disordered state is an important advance." The determination of the structure was not easy, he said. The researchers used a technique called NMR spectroscopy, taking advantage of a powerful new instrument at the UC Santa Cruz NMR Facility. Rubin's initial work on FoxM1 was funded by a grant from the Santa Cruz Cancer Benefit Group. The new study was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health, the American Cancer Society, and Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation. ### In addition to Rubin and Sgourakis, the authors of the paper include co-first authors Aimee Marceau, Caileen Brison, and Santrupti Nerli at UC Santa Cruz, Heather Arsenault and Jennifer Benanti at University of Massachusetts Medical School, and Andrew McShan, Eefei Chen, and Hsiau-Wei Lee at UC Santa Cruz. HRM Dr. Engineer Robert Esuka Endeley Facebook The Paramount Chief-designate of Buea, Dr. Robert Esuka Endeley, has said, based on his consultations, Buea people dont want separation as a solution to the Anglophone crisis, The Horizon has reported. Dr. Endeley, who recently bagged a PhD in Cyber Security from Capitol Technology University,USA and was one of less than five chiefs who took part in celebrations marking the 47th National Day at the Independence Square in Buea, spoke to reporters the Southwest Regional capital. The Paramount Chief-designate, who had been received in audience by Prime Minister Chief Joseph Dion Ngute on the latters recent peace mission to Buea, appreciated the down-to-earth leadership style of the premier. He even likened Dion Ngutes leadership style to that of Dr. EML Endeley,a noted West Cameroon Politician We in the Northwest and Southwest regions are particularly happy because the style of leadership of Prime Minister Dion Ngute was the style of leadership that my father Dr.EML Endeley, practiced in politics in West Cameroon. He went down and talked to the common man on the street as the premier has been doing. The Paramount Chief-designate expressed happiness that the PM said Government was ready for dialogue on anything except separation, to resolve the Anglophone crisis. Dr.Endeley insisted that the people I represent are against separation. If you interview [my people] they will tell you they dont want separation, he said. We are very comfortable with the PMs message of peace and dialogue. The traditional ruler urged separatist fighters in the bush to heed the PMs message of hope and come out of the bushes and let us solve this problem once and for all. It is nobodys joy that some people are sleeping in the house and others are in the bushI am pleading with them to come out. This time it looks like dialogue is imminent and real. Asked how he felt when Buea traditional rulers boycotted the 47th National Day celebration despite his appeal for them to take part in the celebration, Dr. Endeley quipped: Nobody owns May 20.It is a national day. It belongs to the state. I have always said that you dont burn down your primary school because you dont like your headboy.Your head boy may be changed the following day and your school will still be there. We as leaders have to take decisions that are above the shallow perspective of some people. If we have to do peace and reconciliation as the PM said, it starts with us the leaders. I could not have done otherwise because I stand at the helm of the chiefdom in Buea, and when I met the PM he asked me to help him bring peace in Buea.That is the reconciliation that has started. It would be recalled that many Southwest Chiefs boycotted the national day celebration as a protest to a call allegedly made on April 25 by Southwest Governor Bernard Okalia Bilai for them to march past on May 20, followed by their various subjects, failing which they would be dethroned. But the president of the Southwest Chiefs Conference (SWECC), Chief Mafany Njie Martin, in an April 30th press statement described the gubernatorial call as appalling and inappropriate and concluded: "We the Southwest Chiefs categorically condemn the demeaning and threatening manner by which the Governor of the Southwest Region reminded us of our usual civic duties, which we have always performed so diligently without being ordered to so by whosoever. The Paramount Chief-designate, who is a software security engineer and part-time university don, told reporters that now that he has defended his PhD, he would return to Cameroon and help enormously in nation-building. Asked if any other chiefs confronted him for taking part in celebrating the national day while many boycotted it, Dr Endeley remarked: I met with some of them on the Friday before May 20 and I spoke to them and they told me their grievances. I tried to explain to them my own perspective and tried to listen to them. Like I said negotiation is an ongoing thing. We are talking and I am sure before long we will all be at peace with each other Dr. Robert Esuka Endeley was elected over a year ago as the paramount chief-designate of Buea, to replace Chief SML Endeley who died on July 7, 2015. A prime ministerial decision is expected to confirm him as the Paramount Chief of Buea for him to start enjoying all the rights and privileges that go with the royal office. Elephants are essential to savannah and forest ecosystems and play an important role in ecotourism in Africa - yet poaching has contributed to a rapid decline in elephant populations in recent decades. An international research team has now released a study presenting a more positive perspective: Severin Hauenstein and Prof. Dr. Carsten Dormann from the Department of Biometry and Environmental Systems Analysis at the University of Freiburg, together with Dr. Colin Beale from the University of York/England as well as Dr. Mrigesh Kshatriya and Dr. Julian Blanc from the elephant monitoring program MIKE in Kenya/Africa, used a statistical approach to show that the African elephant poaching rates have fallen since 2011. In a study published in the current issue of the journal Nature Communications, the researchers associated the illegal elephant hunting rates with a local poverty, national corruption and global ivory demand. While almost all elephant populations have experienced drastic declines since 2000, some populations have been stable or even increasing in recent years, such as that in the Kruger National Park in South Africa. The analysis shows that the number of elephants killed by poachers has fallen from an estimated peak of more than ten percent of the African elephant population in 2011 to less than four percent in 2017. "This is a positive trend, but we should not see this as an end to the poaching crisis," cautions Hauenstein. "After some changes in the political environment, the total number of illegally killed elephants in Africa seems to be falling, but to assess possible protection measures, we need to understand the local and global processes driving illegal elephant hunting." The results indicate that in a regional comparison, corruption and poverty among the local population are the main factors that drive poaching rates. The researchers show that efforts to curb the demand for ivory in Asian markets and reduce local corruption and poverty could be more successful in the fight against poaching than solely focusing on law enforcement: the recorded annual poaching rates correlate strongly with proxies of ivory demand in China, the traditional market for ivory. In addition, the variation of illegal killing rates among the 29 African countries was primarily explained by the degree of corruption and poverty in the respective country. In the CITES programme "Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants" (MIKE), which is co-financed by the European Union, wildlife law enforcement patrols annually record the elephant carcasses in 53 monitoring sites in 29 African countries and identify the cause of death. Between 2002 and 2017, the programme documented 18,007 carcasses, of which 8,860 were identified as illegal killings. MIKE was established by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) to inform decision-making by the Parties regarding trade in specimens of elephants, and build capacity in elephant range States for the overall goal of better management of elephants and enhanced enforcement efforts. ### Original publication: Hauenstein, S., Kshatriya, M., Blanc, J., Dormann, C. F., Beale, C. M. (2019): African elephant poaching rates correlate with local poverty national corruption and global ivory price." In: Nature Communications. DOI: xxx Contact: Severin Hauenstein Department of Biometry and Environmental Systems Analysis University of Freiburg E-Mail: severin.hauenstein@biom.uni-freiburg.de Dr. Colin Beale Department of Biology University of York/England E-Mail: colin.beale@york.ac.uk The global Understanding Unbelief program to advance the scientific understanding of atheism and nonreligion will today (May 28) present results from its research at the Vatican in Rome The global Understanding Unbelief programme to advance the scientific understanding of atheism and nonreligion will today (28 May) present results from its research at the Vatican in Rome. The multidisciplinary research programme led by the University of Kent maps the nature and diversity of 'unbelief' across six countries including Brazil, China, Denmark, Japan, UK and the USA The research is supported by a 2.3 million grant from the John Templeton Foundation, and is led by the University of Kent in collaboration with St Mary's University Twickenham, Coventry University and Queen's University Belfast. Researchers asked about attitudes to issues like supernatural phenomena, such as life after death and astrology, whether the 'universe is ultimately meaningless' and what values matter most to them. They used internationally recognised terms to identify unbelievers - atheists (i.e., people who 'don't believe in God') and agnostics (i.e., people who 'don't know whether there is a God or not, and don't believe there is a way to find out'). Key findings from the research include: Unbelievers exhibit significant diversity both within, and between, different countries In all six countries, majorities of unbelievers identify as having 'no religion' Relatively few select 'atheist' or 'agnostic' as their preferred (non)religious or secular identity Popular assumptions about 'convinced, dogmatic atheists' do not stand up to scrutiny Unbelief in God doesn't necessarily entail unbelief in other supernatural phenomena and the majority of unbelievers in all countries surveyed expressed belief in one or more supernatural phenomena A common supposition - that of the purposeless unbeliever, lacking anything to ascribe ultimate meaning to the universe - does not bear scrutiny Most unbelievers endorse objective moral values, human dignity and attendant rights, and the 'deep value' of nature, at similar rates to the general populations in their countries Unbelievers and general populations show high agreement concerning the values most important for 'finding meaning in the world and your own life'. 'Family' and 'freedom' ranked highly for all. Co-hosting the event are the Pontifical Council for Culture - the Vatican department responsible for dialoguing with non-believers - and the Nonreligion and Secularity Research Network, co-founded in 2008 by University of Kent sociologist Dr Lois Lee. Dr Lee, who is Senior Research Fellow in Kent's Department of Theology and Religion, is Principal Investigator for Understanding Unbelief. The project is co-led by psychologist Dr Miguel Farias (Coventry University), anthropologist Dr Jonathan Lanman (Queen's University Belfast), and sociologist Professor Stephen Bullivant (St Mary's University). Speaking about the research project, Dr Lee said: 'These findings show once and for all that the public image of the atheist is a simplification at best, and a gross caricature at worst. Instead of relying on assumptions about what it means to be an atheist, we can now work with a real understanding of the many different worldviews that the atheist population includes. The implications for public and social policy are substantial -- and this study also stands to impact on more everyday interactions in religiously diverse societies.' Dr Lanman said: 'Our data directly counter common stereotypes about unbelievers. A common view of unbelievers is that they lack a sense of objective morality and purpose but possess an arrogant confidence and a very different set of values from the rest of the population. Our representative data across six diverse countries show that none of this is true. In a time when our societies seem to be growing more and more polarized, it has been both interesting and encouraging to see that one of the supposed big divides in human life (believers vs. unbelievers) may not be so big after all.' The conference will run from 28 -30 May, 2019. ### The full 'Understanding Unbelief' report is available from 00.01am Tuesday 28 May 2019 at https://research.kent.ac.uk/understandingunbelief/reports/ For further information and interview or image requests contact Sandy Fleming at the University of Kent Press Office. Tel: +44 (0)1227 823581 Email: S.Fleming@kent.ac.uk News releases can also be found at http://www.kent.ac.uk/news University of Kent on Twitter: http://twitter.com/UniKent Images on the cover of the report are not free to use. Any media wishing to use those images, should contact the photographer Aubrey Wade at aubrey@aubreywade.com The conference will mark the fiftieth anniversary of the Vatican's own Culture of Unbelief conference in March 1969. That event, also held at the Gregorian University, was the world's first international conference for the social-scientific study atheism and nonreligiosity. The current collaboration comes at a time when rates of unbelief and nonreligion appear to be rapidly rising in many countries throughout the world, with potentially significant social, cultural, and political implications. New figures published last year by Understanding Unbelief researcher Professor Stephen Bullivant revealed that 70% of UK 18-29 year-olds identify as having 'no religion'. Established in 1965, the University of Kent - the UK's European university - now has almost 20,000 students across campuses or study centres at Canterbury, Medway, Tonbridge, Brussels, Paris, Athens and Rome. It was ranked 22nd in the Guardian University Guide 2018 and in June 2017 was awarded a gold rating, the highest, in the UK Government's Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF). In 2018 it was also ranked in the top 500 of Shanghai Ranking's Academic Ranking of World Universities and 47th in the Times Higher Education's (THE) new European Teaching Rankings. Kent is ranked 17th in the UK for research intensity (REF 2014). It has world-leading research in all subjects and 97% of its research is deemed by the REF to be of international quality. Along with the universities of East Anglia and Essex, Kent is a member of the Eastern Arc Research Consortium (http://www.kent.ac.uk/about/partnerships/eastern-arc.html). The University is worth 0.7 billion to the economy of the south east and supports more than 7,800 jobs in the region. Student off-campus spend contributes 293.3m and 2,532 full-time-equivalent jobs to those totals. Kent has received two Queen's Anniversary prizes for Higher and Further Education. Universite de Montreal's Laboratory of Biosensors & Nanomachines, in partnership with Montreal company Nanogenecs Diagnostics, has just been awarded a 700 000$ NSERC 'Idea to Innovation' grant to develop a home blood-testing device for people with chronic illnesses. The lab is run by Alexis Vallee-Belisle, who also holds a Canada Research Chair in Bioengineering and Bio-nanotechnology. His first goal is to get the biosensor to detect three biomarkers - urea, potassium and creatinine - in a drop of blood. People with kidney disease and heart disease typically need to keep an eye on these markers. Currently, blood testing is a multi-step process that usually requires patients to have blood drawn in a clinic or lab. "After blood samples are collected in a hospital or clinic, they get sent to a central analysis lab, which is typically located off-site, then the results are forwarded to the doctor and finally shared with the patient," said Vallee-Belisle. "Our technology aims to change that, so that patients and doctors can get immediate results as part of everyday monitoring. This will allow them to take fast action if something is out of range." Univalor, UdeM's business-development partner, took out a patent last year to protect the technology developed by Vallee-Belisle and his team. "Our prototype can already detect blood urea levels - now we're working on electrodes to measure potassium and creatinine," said Vallee-Belisle. "Eventually, the device will enable people with chronic illnesses to monitor their condition daily and send results electronically to their doctors. Healthcare professionals will be able to quickly and efficiently respond to changes in their patients' condition." In addition to the NSERC grant, the project also received $240,000 in funding last year from the Quebec Ministry of the Economy and Innovation. Eliminating travel time to improve patients' lives "We believe that, like diabetics with blood glucose meters, patients with other chronic illnesses would benefit greatly from home blood testing, especially during periods when their condition is unstable," said Vallee-Belisle. "This more preventative and personalized form of care could clearly improve their quality of life." But the technology is still several steps away from being ready to use. Among other things, the biosensor prototype must go through a series of tests to make sure it can accurately detect all three markers. The device's blood urea sensing capabilities are now being tested in a hospital setting under the direction of Dr. Vincent De Guire, a clinical biochemist at Hopital Maisonneuve-Rosemont. Once this testing is complete, the designers and engineers will work on developing a low-cost, portable device that's easy to use, much like the blood glucose meters used by diabetics. One clear sign this technology has a lot of potential: multinational Roche Diagnostics recently inked a sponsorship agreement with Nanogenecs to guide the strategic direction to commercialize the technology. By the time it's ready for market, Vallee-Belisle hopes that Nanogenecs - a company he founded with four partners and that is also backed by investors in Toronto, Boston and Philadelphia - will have found investors in Quebec interested in funding the invention's marketing phase. ### About Nanogenecs Nanogenecs is an early stage in vitro diagnostic company with the vision of enabling patients with chronic diseases to better manage their conditions through a platform for self-testing at home that yields equivalent results to the central lab. Test results will be integrated with remote care plans of the patient's health care providers. Nanogenecs is incorporated in Canada. The team is co-located in Montreal and Boston. About Universite de Montreal Deeply rooted in Montreal and dedicated to its international mission, Universite de Montreal is a leading research university. It ranks among the top 100 universities worldwide and among the five best French-language universities. With its affiliated schools, Polytechnique Montreal and HEC Montreal, UdeM attracts over $500 million in research funding every year, making it one of the top three university research hubs in Canada. UdeM has more than 66,700 students, 2,400 professors and researchers, and an active global network of 400,000 alumni. A global study shows people born very preterm or with very low birthweight have a high risk of lung disease and are not reaching their full airway capacity by early adulthood. A global study shows people born very preterm or with very low birthweight have a high risk of lung disease and are not reaching their full airway capacity by early adulthood. The research found those born before 32 weeks of pregnancy or with a birthweight of less than 1501g are four times more likely to have airflow in worrying clinical ranges in early adulthood than those born on time. The international study*, published in the latest edition of The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, was led by the Murdoch Children's Research Institute, the Royal Woman's Hospital and the University of Melbourne, with collaborators from Norway, Finland, the UK, and The Netherlands. The research sourced data from 11 studies involving 935 participants who were born very preterm or with very low birthweight and 722 who were born at full term. All were aged between 16 and 33. Lead researcher Professor Lex Doyle said many people born very preterm or with very low birthweight will develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which blocks airflow and makes it difficult to breathe. Professor Doyle said the likelihood was even higher if they had bronchopulmonary dysplasia - a form of lung injury that affects newborn babies, - or were exposed to tobacco smoke or other pollutants. "The reductions in their airflow capacity in adolescence and early adulthood were substantial and a significantly higher proportion had expiratory flow rates (exhaling speed) in concerning clinical ranges compared with those born on time," he said. Professor Doyle said babies born very preterm or with very low birthweight often required help with breathing problems after birth, such as assisted ventilation or oxygen treatment, and many would develop bronchopulmonary dysplasia. "They go onto have reduced airflow through childhood compared with children born on time or of normal birthweight," he said. However, it wasn't clear until now whether they were reaching the expected peak of lung growth in their early 20s. "As they are now surviving in large numbers with modern obstetric and neonatal care, it's important to study their breathing ability in adulthood." Professor Doyle said general practitioners or specialist physicians should be aware that their adult patients born very preterm or with very low birthweight, particularly those who had bronchopulmonary dysplasia, were more likely to present with respiratory problems than those born at term. "Physicians should obtain a perinatal history, including gestational age at birth, birthweight, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia, when assessing adults with airway disease," he said. ### A new compound developed by University of Sheffield experts has killed antibiotic resistant gram-negative bacteria, including E. coli, during tests New treatments for gram-negative bacteria are vital as they are rapidly becoming immune to current drugs Antimicrobial resistance is already responsible for 25,000 deaths in the EU each year The research could pave the way for new treatment of life-threatening superbugs A new compound which visualises and kills antibiotic resistant superbugs has been discovered by scientists at the University of Sheffield and Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL). The team, led by Professor Jim Thomas, from the University of Sheffield's Department of Chemistry, is testing new compounds developed by his PhD student Kirsty Smitten on antibiotic resistant gram-negative bacteria, including pathogenic E. coli. Gram-negative bacteria strains can cause infections including pneumonia, urinary tract infections and bloodstream infections. They are difficult to treat as the cell wall of the bacteria prevents drugs from getting into the microbe. Antimicrobial resistance is already responsible for 25,000 deaths in the EU each year, and unless this rapidly emerging threat is addressed, it's estimated by 2050 more than 10 million people could die every year due to antibiotic resistant infections. Doctors have not had a new treatment for gram-negative bacteria in the last 50 years, and no potential drugs have entered clinical trials since 2010. The new drug compound has a range of exciting opportunities. As Professor Jim Thomas explains: "As the compound is luminescent it glows when exposed to light. This means the uptake and effect on bacteria can be followed by the advanced microscope techniques available at RAL. "This breakthrough could lead to vital new treatments to life-threatening superbugs and the growing risk posed by antimicrobial resistance." The studies at Sheffield and RAL have shown the compound seems to have several modes of action, making it more difficult for resistance to emerge in the bacteria. The next step of the research will be to test it against other multi-resistant bacteria. In a recent report on antimicrobial resistant pathogens, the World Health Organisation put several gram-negative bacteria at the top of its list, stating that new treatments for these bacteria were 'Priority 1 Critical' because they cause infections with high death rates, are rapidly becoming resistant to all present treatments and are often picked up in hospitals. The research, published in the journal ACS Nano, describes the new compound which kills gram-negative E. coli, including a multidrug resistant pathogen said to be responsible for millions of antibiotic resistant infections worldwide annually. ### For further information please contact: Emma Griffiths, Media and PR Assistant, University of Sheffield, 0114 222 1034, e.l.griffiths@sheffield.ac.uk Notes to editors The University of Sheffield With almost 29,000 of the brightest students from over 140 countries, learning alongside over 1,200 of the best academics from across the globe, the University of Sheffield is one of the world's leading universities. A member of the UK's prestigious Russell Group of leading research-led institutions, Sheffield offers world-class teaching and research excellence across a wide range of disciplines. Unified by the power of discovery and understanding, staff and students at the university are committed to finding new ways to transform the world we live in. Sheffield is the only university to feature in The Sunday Times 100 Best Not-For-Profit Organisations to Work For 2018 and for the last eight years has been ranked in the top five UK universities for Student Satisfaction by Times Higher Education. Sheffield has six Nobel Prize winners among former staff and students and its alumni go on to hold positions of great responsibility and influence all over the world, making significant contributions in their chosen fields. Global research partners and clients include Boeing, Rolls-Royce, Unilever, AstraZeneca, Glaxo SmithKline, Siemens and Airbus, as well as many UK and overseas government agencies and charitable foundations. Elephant poaching rates in Africa have started to decline after reaching a peak in 2011, an international team of scientists have concluded. However, the team say the continent's elephant population remains threatened without continuing action to tackle poverty, reduce corruption and decrease demand of ivory. The research, which included scientists from the universities of Freiburg, York and the Convention for the International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), reveals a decline in annual poaching mortality rate from an estimated peak of over 10 % in 2011 to less than 4 % in 2017. It is estimated there are around 350,000 elephants left in Africa, but approximately 10-15,000 are killed each year by poachers. At current poaching rates, elephants are in danger of being virtually wiped from the continent, surviving only in small, heavily protected pockets. One of the authors of the study, Dr Colin Beale, from the University of York's Department of Biology said: "We are seeing a downturn in poaching, which is obviously positive news, but it is still above what we think is sustainable so the elephant populations are declining." "The poaching rates seem to respond primarily to ivory prices in South- East Asia and we can't hope to succeed without tackling demand in that region." The research team say it is impossible to say if the ivory trade ban introduced in China 2017 is having an impact on the figures as ivory prices started to fall before the ban and may reflect a wider downturn in the Chinese economy. "We need to reduce demand in Asia and improve the livelihoods of people who are living with elephants in Africa; these are the two biggest targets to ensure the long-term survival of elephants", Dr Beale added. "While we can't forget about anti-poaching and law enforcement, improving this alone will not solve the poaching problem," Dr Beale added. The scientists looked at data from the MIKE (Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants) programme, which records carcass data provided by park rangers at 53 protected sites across Africa. Dr Beale added: "Elephants are the very definition of charismatic megafauna, but they are also important engineers of African savannah and forest ecosystems and play a vital role in attracting ecotourism so their conservation is a real concern." Lisa Rolls Hagelberg, Head of Wildlife Communication & Ambassador Relations, UN Environment, said: "Ensuring a future with wild elephants, and myriad other species, will require stronger laws and enforcement efforts and genuine community engagement; however, as long as demand exists supply will find a way to quench it. "Only about 6% of the current funding going towards tackling illegal trade in wildlife is directed to communication. For long-term success, governments need to prioritize comprehensive social and behavioural change interventions to both prevent and reduce demand. We have the know how, now we need to invest to truly influence environmental consciousness." Severin Hauenstein, from the University of Freiburg, added: "This is a positive trend, but we should not see this as an end to the poaching crisis. "After some changes in the political environment, the total number of illegally killed elephants in Africa seems to be falling, but to assess possible protection measures, we need to understand the local and global processes driving illegal elephant hunting." The study is published in Nature Communications. ### They simulate decision-making processes, predicting the intentions of another individual; dysfunctions in these 'simulation neurons' may explain difficulties in social interaction in autism and social anxiety Psychologists and philosophers had long suggested that simulation is the mechanism whereby humans understand the minds of others. However, the neural basis of this complex process had not been identified. The amygdala is involved in various functions related to social behaviour as well as in autism. However, it was not known whether the amygdala neurons contributed to advanced social knowledge, such as simulating the decisions of other individuals. A recent study identifies a type of neuron that had not previously been described that actively and spontaneously learns from decision-making by other individuals and simulates their mental processes. The dysfunction of these simulation neurons might be involved in the restriction of social knowledge, one of the symptoms of autism and, through hyperactivity, may give an exaggerated version of others and play an important role in social anxiety, the authors speculate. The study, published on 14 April in Cell, one of the journals with the highest impact factor, is the result of research led by Wolfram Schultz, a scientist at the University of Cambridge (UK) involving Gustavo Deco, ICREA research professor with the Department of Information and Communication Technologies (DTIC) and director of the Center for Brain and Cognition (CBC) at UPF. The work suggests that these so-called "simulation neurons", found in the amygdala, a collection of nerve cells in the brain's temporal lobe, allow animals (and potentially also humans) to reconstruct the mental state of their social partners and, therefore, predict their intentions. The simulation of decisions is involved in social learning The first author of the study, Fabian Grabenhorst, a researcher at the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge explains: "We started to look for neurons that might be involved in social learning. We were surprised to discover that neurons in the amygdala not only learn the value of the objects of social observation, but they used this information to simulate the decisions of their partner". The simulation of the decisions of others is a sophisticated cognitive process within social learning. "For example, by observing the foraging choices of another individual, we can learn what food is worth choosing. This knowledge is not only to do with our own decisions, but also help us to predict the future decisions of others", says Gustavo Deco, co-author of the study. For the study, the researchers recorded the activity of amygdala neurons in monkeys while participating in observational learning tasks. Positioned in pairs, facing each other, with a touch screen between them, the animals had to take a decision if they wanted to receive the reward (fruit juice). To maximize their reward, the animals had to learn and monitor the likelihood of reward associated with the different images displayed to them on the screen. The study allowed the animals to observe the choices taken by their partner and learn the reward values of each image. The researchers saw that once the images were switched, the observing animal could make use of this knowledge when it was the recorded monkey's turn to choose. Surprisingly, it was seen that when an animal observed its partner, the neurons in the amygdala of the observer seemed to make a decision computation. These neurons were able to make a prediction about the reward value of the partner's choices before taking a decision, which is in line with a simulated decision-making process. It is important to highlight that these patterns of activity occurred spontaneously, long before the partner's choices and options without the need for a decision by the observer. First computational model of the neural circuits of the amygdala Based on the results obtained, the scientists created the first computational model of the neural circuits of the amygdala involved in social cognition. As Gustavo Deco points out, "when observing how the specific types of neurons influence each other, this model suggests that the amygdala contains a "decision circuit" that identifies the animal's own choices and a separate "simulation circuit" that calculates the prediction of the choice of the social partner". Simulation and decision neurons are closely intermingled in the amygdala. The authors have managed to distinguish them and their different functions thanks to the computational model, which would not have been possible only with human brain imaging techniques that measure the average activity of a large number of neurons. Autism and social anxiety, two sides of the same coin The scientists suggest that an alteration in the functionality of simulation neurons may impoverish social cognition. Grabenhorst, first author of the paper explains: "If simulation neurons do not work properly, a person may not interact effectively with the mental states of others. We know very little about how specific types of neurons contribute to social cognition and the social challenges faced by individuals with autism. By identifying the neurons and mechanisms of specific circuits for mental simulation, our study may provide new ideas on these conditions". ### GBP/NZD UPDATE #2: The British Pound to New Zealand Dollar exchange rate was set to snap a five-day losing streak on Wednesday with Sterling last seen trading at NZ$1.93944, up 0.3% from the daily open. While the GBP remains under the cloud of Brexit, limited potential for developments over the coming week combined with markets already pricing for a pro-Brexit eurosceptic to become the next PM saw the UK stabilise against a basket of peers following weeks of substantial under-performance. Meanwhile for the NZD, the mood continues to darken in relation to US-Sino trade with both sides maintaining an obstinate stance and weighing on the Kiwi alongside other 'risk assets'. Most recently, the Peoples Daily newspaper, owned by Chinas ruling Communist Party said that China could limit sales of rare earth chemicals to the US in a bid to gain leverage in trade negotiations. The article rounded off with a rather ominous "Dont say we didnt warn you," not boding well for hopes of a near-term resolution to the spat. "Concerns about global trade are being felt across asset classes and the currency markets are feeling the pressure, wrote Pictet Asset Management, senior economist, Nikolay Markov. GBP/NZD UPDATE: The British Pound to New Zealand Dollar remained relatively flat overnight with markets taking the latest Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) Financial Stability Report in its stride. Into Tuesday, the UK was seen to be gaining on the kiwi with Sterling last seen trading at NZ$1.93595. According to the RBNZ report, policymakers' assessments of the risks facing the NZ financial system were little changed with high levels of household and dairy farm debt along side New Zealand's exposure to external markets continuing to be the main points of vulnerability. ANZ business confidence figures also offered little support with the index remaining extremely downtrodden and printing at -32. With a light data schedule, Brexit related news-flow as well as risk-appetite in response to US-China trade tensions will remain key market drivers. On the trade front, fears of a further escalation in the US-China dispute could keep the Kiwi muted. According to Chinas ruling Communist Party's Peoples Daily newspaper, China could use rare earth metals for leverage in the trade war, with the article stating "dont say we didnt warn you. New Zealand Dollar (NZD) Exchange Rates Clipped by Trump Comments The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) was stuck in a narrow range against the Pound (GBP) and the majority of its other peers on Tuesday morning, in the wake of comments from US President Donald Trump. In another escalation in his war of words with Beijing Trump suggested the US is prepared to hold out for a better deal and threated that tariffs on Chinese goods could go up very, very substantially, very easily. This unsurprisingly limited demand for the risk-sensitive Kiwi on Tuesday, with NZD investors spooked by the prospect of a further escalation in trade tensions hurting New Zealands trade driven economy. The tariff threat brought an abrupt halt to the New Zealands Dollars attempts to push higher on the back of rising commodity prices. ANZ FX/rates strategist Sandeep Parekh said: Kiwi's ascent was capped as the USD strengthened more broadly overnight. This came on the back of Trump's comments suggesting he was in no urgency to secure a trade deal with China. Pound (GBP) Exchange Rates Steady as UK Mortgage Approvals Surge Meanwhile, the Pound (GBP) held its ground on Tuesday morning, following the publication of the UKs latest mortgage figures. According to data published by UK Finance, 42,989 mortgages were approved in April, up from the 40,564 approved the previous month and roaring past expectations that home loans would have fallen to 39,300. This resulted in mortgage approvals striking a two-year, rising to their highest levels since February 2017. Analysts suggest that this may indicate that UK housing markets is beginning to pick back up after consumers held off from making any major financial commitments ahead of Brexit. The UK housing market had previously come under pressure in the first quarter in the run-up to the initial Brexit deadline at the end of March. Howard Archer, chief economic advisor to the EY Item Club, said: Aprils marked rise in mortgage approvals suggests that housing market activity may well have got at least some temporary support from the avoidance of a disruptive Brexit at the end of March. It may very well also be that the housing market has benefited from recent improved consumer purchasing power and robust employment growth. GBP/NZD Exchange Rate Forecast: NZ Budget to Drag on the Kiwi? Looking ahead to the remainder of this weeks session, movement in the Pound New Zealand Dollar (GBP/NZD) exchange rate is likely to be driven by the publication of New Zealands latest budget. Economists forecast that the Treasury is likely to downgrade its economic outlook for the coming year, with the GDP forecasts for 2019 highly likely to be lower than the 3.1% forecast back in December. Ahead of the budget, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) will also release its bi-annual financial stability report, which could lend some support to the Kiwi if the RBNZ suggests the risks to New Zealands housing market have continued to reduce. Meanwhile for GBP investors, the absence of any notable UK economic data is likely to leave Sterling highly sensitive to UK political developments. Following Theresa Mays resignation announcement on Friday, the race to replace her as PM and leader of the Conservatives is expected to begin in earnest this week. This political jockeying will be closely watched by GBP investors as they speculate on who is likely to succeed May as PM and how her replacement may shape the future of Brexit. GBP/THB UPDATE #2: While firming against a majority of EMs, the British Pound depreciated versus the Thai Baht over the course of Wednesday's session as foreign inflows drove the THB to become May's top Asian FX gainer. At the time of writing, Sterling was last seen trading at B40.236, down 0.17% and hovering just shy of the three-month low. While the UK continues to lack appeal, focus is shifting towards the October 31st Brexit deadline with implied volatility gauges rising to indicate increased trepidation around the UK's departure date. While situation remains chaotic at best, limited prospects for developments over the next week with markets already pricing for a eurosceptic PM to replace May, have helped the GBP to stabilise after weeks of depreciation. The Thai Baht however found a fresh wave of support amid foreign inflows in the wake of the re-balancing of the MSCI. According to stock exchange data, Tuesday saw foreigners purchase net 12.5bn Baht (~$393 million) of domestic equities, representing the largest single-day inflows since 2012. "It was a good month for the baht with the political uncertainties that prevailed a while ago having eased and the re-balancing of the MSCI, wrote emerging-market currency trader at Mizuho Bank, Yasuhiro Nakamura, adding "here was also some speculation that the central bank may not be able to aggressively intervene to rein in baht gains, which also helped to boost the currency. Thailands fundamentals are quite steady. The Baht also found relief at the non-inclusion on the US Treasury's semi-annual FX report with fears from central bank policymakers that Thailand would be included on a list of potential currency manipulators proving to be unwarranted. GBP/THB UPDATE: The British Pound to Thai Baht exchange rates traded in a narrow range over the course of Tuesday's session with the cross remaining range-bound into Wednesday's session. Art the time of writing, Sterling was last seen trading at B40.237, down 0.16%. With little in the way of positive developments on the trade front, the US-Sino conflict will likely keep gains in the EM space capped. Baht-specific, the delays in forming a new government following the nation's first democratic elections since 2014 could begin to add an element of political risk while a rebound in manufacturing in April - a good start for Q2 GDP growth prospects - isn't expected to be enough to stave of a rate cut from the Thai Central Bank in June. "A surprising rebound in manufacturing in April bodes well for GDP growth in the current quarter, though we dont think the worst is over just yet and maintain our call of a central bank policy rate cut in June," wrote ING economists, adding "Highlighting the lack of fiscal support for the economy, finance ministry yesterday announced a delay in the budget for fiscal 2020 (Oct 2019-Sep 2020) by three months due to the transition to a new government... Weak government spending boosts the case for a June rate cut in our view." Meanwhile in the UK, Brexit remains the primary market driver with focus remaining on who will succeed PM May following her resignation in June. With Sterling beginning to show signs of firming after tumbling drastically over the last three weeks, Brexit fatigue and pessimistic pricing could be limiting further Sterling downside. "The GBP is starting to have a bit of a more stable track record. In line with our expectations, headlines tend to still be negative but the marginal impact has seemingly hit zero," wrote Danske Bank head of fixed income research, Arne Rasmussen, adding "Markets too can sometimes be hit by fatigue and we think the trend is for consolidation or even strengthening of the pound, as we have a more constructive view on the political reality." Tuesday's session saw the British Pound to Thai Baht exchange rate fall to a three month low as Brexit concerns intensified, pressuring the GBP lower while an unexpected uptick in Thai manufacturing output supported the Baht. Having posted a session and multi-month low of B40.193, Sterling was last seen bouncing to trade flat against the daily open at B40.3. Thai Baht Boosted By Unexpected Uptick in Industrial Production While risk-appetite remains relatively shaky with US and Chinese trade concerns at the fore, markets firmed slightly into Tuesday's session, providing breathing space for EMs. The overnight release of the latest Thai industrial production figures prompted the Baht's move higher with output registering an unexpected 2% (year-on-year) increase - in contrast to consensus estimates for an annualised decline of 0.9%. "The Songkran (Thai New Year) holiday typically dents economic activity in April. The added whammy this year was weak exports owing to all the trade noise globally, which earlier this month forced a downgrade of the official export growth forecast for this year to 2.2% from 4.1%," wrote ING economist, Prakash Sakpal, adding "Despite this, the 17% month-on-month (unadjusted for seasonality) fall in the manufacturing index was the smallest fall for the month since 2010." While the THB may be experiencing some near-term support from the release, the overall outlook for the Thai economy remains uncertain with US-China trade tension and a slowdown in global demand continuing to drag on exports and manufacturing levels and subsequently GDP growth projections. Despite the factor weighing on domestic activity and no end to US-China trade tension in sight, central bank policymakers are expected to stand pat on rates following December's 25 basis point hike. Bucking the trend, ING analysts anticipate a potential reversal of December's hike given a lower projected growth profile. On the political front, following the nation's first democratic elections since 2014, steps towards forming a political alliance will likely be received well by markets with the Bhum Jai Thai party throwing its support behind the pro-junta alliance led by Palang Pracharat Party and bringing it closer to forming a government. Outwith the risks surrounding escalating trade tension, the outlook for the THB remains relatively upbeat. "The bahts outperformance is attributable to the real strength of the nations fundamentals, including the current-account surplus, wrote EM analyst Hironori Sannami of Mizuho Bank Ltd., adding "That also includes the fact that it is less susceptible to the U.S.-China trade war relative to other surplus economies like South Korea and Taiwan. Sterling Under Pressure as No-Deal Probability Rises Meanwhile the British Pound was facing political factors of an altogether more negative bearing with speculation swirling in regards to who will replace Prime Minister Theresa May when she officially resigns on June 7th. In light of the recent EU parliament elections in which the brexit Party came from nowhere to secure over 30% of the vote, analysts were in agreement that the Tory party would be under pressure to elect a Brexiter to replace May. While bookmakers are currently favouring prominent Brexiter Boris Johnson for the next PM, with odds of 7/4, a tally of Conservative Party support tracked by ConservativeHome puts foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt at the fore with a current backing of 29 peer Tories. Meanwhile a separate tally held undertaken by order-order appeared to put Dominic Raab and Michael Gove as the frontrunners in terms of party support. Whomever emerges as the next Prime Minister is set to inherit a process which has already prompted the resignation of two Conservative Party Prime Minister's and with the successor expected to take a harder-line stance in regards to Brexit, the odds of a no-deal outcome appear to be on the rise. Indeed, Nordea analysts recently upped their odds of a no-deal scenario from 10% to 15-20% while economists at Nomura Holdings see a 30% probability of a disorderly Brexit. "A big election win for the Brexit party echoes the UKIP success in 2014 which prompted the former UK Prime Minister, David Cameron, to buy-off the UKIP vote with the offer of a Brexit referendum. Tory PM leadership candidates are therefore being dragged to the right again making a No Deal Brexit more likely. Cable vulnerable to 1.25 once more," wrote ING economists. Moving forward, data remains secondary to Brexit-related news-flow with headlines expected to provide directional cues moving forward. BREXIT POUND UPDATE: British Pound exchange rate were flat into Wednesday's session with Sterling hovering near multi-week lows but failing to extend losses against a basket of major peers. While Brexit uncertainty remains in abundance, recent losses have all-but priced in the prospect of pro-Brexit successor to PM May and the associated elevated odds of a no-deal Brexit outcome. Some analysts now expect further GBP downside to be capped in lieu of any major, unexpected, developments. "The GBP is starting to have a bit of a more stable track record. In line with our expectations, headlines tend to still be negative but the marginal impact has seemingly hit zero," wrote Danske Bank head of FI research, Arne Rasmussen, adding "Markets too can sometimes be hit by fatigue and we think the trend is for consolidation or even strengthening of the pound, as we have a more constructive view on the political reality: May might be stepping down but we need clarity if the pound is to weaken further, not uncertainty, and the former is not coming near term." The British Pound was on the back-foot versus a basket of major peers into Tuesday's session, continuing the UK's recent run of dismal performance, as investor focu centred on the Conservative Party leadership contest and the implications thereof on Brexit. Having kicked off Tuesday's session with a spike higher, the GBP quickly more-then-reversed gains and was last seen trading at $1.26691 against the US Dollar. Similar price action played out in the Pound to Euro exchange rate with Sterling last seen trading at 1.13150. Conservative Party Leadership Contest Tipped to Yield Eurosceptic PM Markets continued to digest the outcome of the weekend's European elections. With a strong showing for the newly-formed Brexit Party, whoever replaces Prime Minister Theresa May when she steps down on June 7th is expected to be euroesceptic camp, in turn raising the perceived odds of a no-deal Brexit outcome - a key downside risk factor for the GBP. Above: EU Parliament Election Results (UK) While the Conservative Party leadership election has not yet been officially launched, ten Conservative Party lawmakers have thus far pledged to run for the Party leadership. Of the contenders, prominent Brexiteer and EU-sceptic Boris Johnson remains the bookie's favourite to win with odds of 7/4. However, according to tally being run by ConservativeHome - based on expressed intent - Jeremy Hunt appears to be the favourite among lawmakers with 29 Tory MPs pledging to back the foreign secretaries bid while Boris Johnson was a close second with 24 supporting MPs. Of the two candidates, the election of Jeremy Hunt would likely see markets pare back expectations of a no-deal outcome given Hunt's recent comments relating thereto. Speaking earlier on Tuesday, Hunt claimed that no-deal Brexit would amount to "political suicide" for the Conservative Party, while also saying the option should remain on the table. "Im worried that if we dont solve it (Brexit), we will face a political crisis that is far bigger actually than our legal relationship with the EU, it could lead to the destruction of our party system and the end of my own party, said Hunt on BBC radio. Hunt added "Ive always believed we should keep no deal on the table, Ive always thought thats the best way of getting a good deal and Ive always thought that ultimately our economy would find a way to flourish even with the shock of no deal, but the biggest risk to Brexit now is ... a general election. Hunt went on to add that his approach to breaking the Brexit impasse would be to revert to the EU with hopes of re-opening negotiations on the EU Withdrawal Agreement - a request EU leaders have persistently rejected - while involving ministers from all main political factions in a bid to find a more universally acceptable outcome. Labour Leader Under Pressure to Adopt Second Referendum as Party Line Meanwhile the Labour Party is struggling with its internal battles as prominent MPs continue to pressure party leader Jeremy Corbyn to push for a second EU referendum. Speaking to Sky News, ex PM Tony Blair called on Corbyn to "stop equivocating" and back a second referendum. "The risk for Labour is that if it doesnt put forward a set of policies that can command support in the centre as well as on the left then it cant get to a majority. On Europe he (Corbyn) has just got to come to a clear position," said the ex-party leader, adding "Both party leaderships have made the same mistake which is to think that it is possible to sit on the fence on Europe and appeal to both sides. The European elections show that isnt possible. The calls for a fresh vote on the UK's EU membership were seconded by shadow home secretary, Diane Abbot, who insisted a a second vote is the "right thing to do and its the democratic thing to do". Abbot went on to add "Now at minutes to midnight on these negotiations, the Tories have plunged into their leadership contest so we get no sense out of them for a few months. We think its important to foreground the peoples vote." In light of the GBP's persistent losses over recent weeks, some analysts expect a bottom to form in the near-term as markets fully price in a pessimistic outlook while others see imminent no end to the Sterling's current slide. Tameh Valentine & Prof. Abangma James Arrey PhotoGrid Professor Abangma James Arrey, President of the University of Buea Chapter of the National Union of Teachers of Higher Education (SYNES) and Tameh Valentine, National President of Teachers Association of Cameroon (TAC) have convened a seminar to prepare for the imminent National Education Forum. The seminar scheduled to take place at the Dorothy Limunga Njeuma Amphitheatre of the University of Buea on Wednesday, May 29, 2019 is expected to bring together all education stakeholders in the South West Region. All teachers, PTA members, school proprietors and administrators, educationists, among other stakeholders in the education sector are invited to be at the venue by 8:00am, organisers say. It is said that the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Buea, Professor Ngomo Horace Manga will deliver a welcome note in the company of all regional delegates in charge of education in the region. After the failed ad hoc committee meetings in Bamenda, Minister of State Jacques Fame Ndongo of High Education has been holding meetings with leaders of TAC, CATTU (Cameroon Teachers Trade Union), SYNES and other teacher trade union leaders, the purpose being to organise a National Education Forum. The leaders convinced him to allow them go back to their grassroots so as to gather opinion, the organisers say. Common Law Lawyers went on strike, October 11, 2016, to protest governments attempts to annihilate the Common Law practice in a constitutionally bilingual and bi-jural Cameroon. Anglophone teachers in the country joined the strike on November 21, 2016 to uphold Anglo-Saxon values under threat in Cameroons two English-speaking regions. Same day, probably by some coincidence, Mancho Bibixy Tse led a coffin revolution in Bamenda to demand for more development. Matters came to a head on November 28, 2016 when some protesting University of Buea students met with reprisals from security forces and on Thursday, December 8, 2016 the population of Bamenda took to the streets to denounce the politicisation of a strike action they considered genuine and borne of longstanding grievances. Days of ghost town, school boycott and civil disobedience observed throughout the South West and North West Regions of the country paved the way for the arrest of some of the corporatist leaders. Even after both the teachers and lawyers officially called off the strikes, the situation morphed into an armed conflict with close to 2,000 deaths documented, 209 villages burnt and about 500,000 persons internally displaced with some 50,000 in Nigeria as refugees. Students and teachers have been victims of the senseless war they have been arrested, kidnapped, maimed, killed and schools grounded. Today, the English subsystem of education is at the emergency ward and desperate measures are now being employed to turn the tides. The hope is for schools in the two restive regions to resume, for as many have said, the education of innocent children should never be used for political pursuits. GBP/EUR UPDATE #2: The British Pound to Euro exchange rates remained largely muted during Wednesday's session with Sterling last seen trading at 1.134. According to the European Central Bank's (ECB) latest Financial Stability Review, published on Wednesday, central bank policymakers cautioned over the potential for weaker-than-anticipated growth and key risks surrounding the potential escalation of global trade tensions. Speaking to CNBC, vice president of the ECB, Luis de Guindos said a full blown US-China trade war would be "extremely detrimental," and that "it could affect not only the volatility of markets, it could affect the real economy quite rapidly. Despite the downbeat outlook, Brexit-related concerns curbed the GBP's ability to capitalise on the negative sentiment. With Labour under pressure to push for a second referendum and a eurosceptic MP likely to replace PM May as party leader and the next PM, potential Brexit outcomes are becoming increasingly polarised. In a research note, MUFG analysts wrote "Lots of sub-plots may emerge along the way but we are moving toward another binary outcome that will likely result in increased pound volatility." GBP/EUR UPDATE: Outwith a choppy European session, the Pound to Euro exchange rate saw out Tuesday's session marginally higher-than-flat with Sterling last seen trading at 1.13379, flat versus Wednesday's open. Political instability both within Europe in the wake of EU elections and in the UK around the protracted Brexit saga represent risks for both the GBP and EUR moving forward as markets continue to digest the implications of a more fragmented EU parliament and potential Rome-Brussels dispute along side the prospects of hard-line Brexiter as Prime Minister. "The market continues to focus on Italy, where the more conciliatory rhetoric from Italy we saw late last week is gone after it has become clear that the EU Commission has sharpened its rhetoric towards Italy," wrote Danske Bank analysts. Data-wise, the mornings releases were a mixed bag with French consumer spending printing above-forecast while CPI estimates missed (printing at 0.2% versus the consensus estimate: 0.3%) and preliminary GDP registered on-forecast at 0.3% (q/q). With a relatively light data schedule any political developments will likely overshadow hard economic releases. Nevertheless, we'll see the latest German unemployment figures ahead of the European Central Bank's latest financial stability review. Danske analysts added "In the bigger picture, we note that the inflation swap market is trying to get the ECBs attention ahead of next weeks meeting, marking new cycle lows. In our view, this will continue to put underlying appreciation pressure on the EUR until the ECB responds and reverses course." The Pound Euro (GBP/EUR) exchange rate steadied following the publication of the German GfK consumer confidence survey for Jun, which eased to 10.1 against Mays 10.2. These were followed by the Eurozones business climate figures for May, which also fell below forecast to 0.30. However, Eurozone economist sentiment rose to a better-than-expected 105.1, providing some uplift for the single currency. Bert Colijn, a Senior Eurozone Economist at ING, said that this was a pleasant surprise, adding: It has to be said that most sectors except for services still show weaker readings than in March, so the best way to read this is: its not as bad as April data suggested! GBP/EUR Exchange Rate Steadies as Brexit Party Haunts Major UK Political Parties The Pound, meanwhile, has remained generally unmoved against most of its competitors today, with concerns continuing to rise over the implications of the European Elections, following the overwhelming victory for the newly-formed Brexit Party, and putting pressure on the two major parties. Diane Abbot, the Shadow Home Secretary, commented: Now, at minutes to midnight on these negotiations, the Tories have plunged into their leadership contest so we get no sense out of them for a few months. We think its important to foreground the peoples vote. However, with leadership uncertainty rising within the Conservative Party with Theresa May due to step down as early as 7 June this has raised fears of a possible no-deal Brexit, with Brexiters like Boris Johnson becoming increasingly likely candidates for leadership. Meanwhile, Jeremy Hunt, the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, gloomily commented on the possible fate of the Conservatives, saying: I want to solve the Brexit crisis we are in and Im worried if we dont solve it we will face a political crisis that is far bigger than our legal relationship with the EU; it could lead to the destruction of our party system and the end of my own party. GBP/EUR Forecast: Sterling Could Rise on Talks of a Second Referendum Tomorrow will see the publication of the German unemployment figures for May, which are expected to hold steady at 4.9%. The European Central Banks Yves Mersch will be delivering a speech tomorrow, and any dovish comments about the state of the Eurozones economy could weigh on the single currency. Pound traders, meanwhile, will be paying close attention to political developments, as the Conservatives must now undertake a decision over its future leader, while Brexit uncertainty continues ramped up by the partys poor performance in the European elections. Sterling, however, could rise on an increasingly likelihood of a second referendum as no-deal fears would diminish, restoring confidence in UK markets. Tuesday, May 28, 2019 Whats your preference at the Death Cafe: tea or coffee, cake or cookies? The next Albuquerque Death Cafe will take place on Sunday, June 30, 2019 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. We meet in the Fifth Floor Lounge at Manzano del Sol Village, 5201 Roma NE, Albuquerque, NM. The building is located just south of Lomas Blvd. and just west of San Mateo Blvd. As always, refreshments will be provided. The event is free and donations are welcome. Send a note to Gail [at] AGoodGoodbye.com to RSVP. The objective of the Death Cafe is to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives. Its an interesting, unstructured conversation with no specific agenda. The ABQ Death Cafe offers a relaxed, confidential and safe setting to discuss death, drink tea (or your favorite beverage) and eat delicious cake or cookies. We also provide options for those avoiding gluten and added sugar. The Death Cafe concept was started in the United Kingdom by Jon Underwood. He was influenced by the ideas of Swiss sociologist Bernard Crettaz, who started holding Cafe Mortel events in France and Switzerland. For more information about Death Cafes, visit this page at AGoodGoodbye.com or visit www.DeathCafe.com. Gail Rubin, CT, The Doyenne of Death Your Death Cafe Host Gail Rubin, Certified Thanatologist, hosts the Albuquerque Death Cafe. She is a pioneering death educator. Rubin is a public speaker, a published author of three books, host of a TV interview series and podcast, a blogger, a funeral industry trade journalist, a Certified Funeral Celebrant, and an innovator in the funeral business. She created a conversation-starting game called The Newly-Dead Game, introduced the Death Cafe movement in the United States, and held the first Before I Die Festival west of the Mississippi in 2017. Albuquerque Business First named her one of their 2019 Women of Influence. Learn more about Gail and the Before I Die New Mexico Festival here. Share this: Chemicals used to add flavor to liquid nicotine in e-cigarettes may damage cardiovascular cells and lead to greater risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a new study led by researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine. The findings, published Monday in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, are the latest in a growing body of studies that suggest, but have yet to definitively conclude, that e-cigarettes may do some damage to human health. The study did not examine products from Juul, the San Francisco company that is the largest maker of nicotine vaping products. The takeaway is we found the flavorings can cause vascular dysfunction and we think chronic use may contribute to increase cardiovascular risk in the future, said Dr. Joseph Wu, the studys senior author and director of the Stanford Cardiovascular Institute. Both adult patients and kids should be aware of this. Researchers analyzed the effect that six e-liquids of varying nicotine concentrations from three different brands Freedom Smoke USA, Johnson Creek and E Liquid Market had on cells from the blood and serum of healthy nonsmokers, cigarette smokers and people who use both e-cigarettes and regular cigarettes. The subjects did not have any major cardiovascular risk factors. Researchers found that exposure to the nicotine, flavorings and solvents in e-cigarettes exacerbated oxidative stress, cell death and inflammation, damaging the cells lining the arteries a risk factor in developing cardiovascular diseases. The extent of the effects on the cells varied depending on the flavor of the e-liquid. Cinnamon-flavored e-liquid was the most toxic, but researchers arent sure why. The brands that were tested had nicotine concentrations of zero, 6 and 18 milligrams per milliliter of liquid lower than that of many other e-liquid products. The e-liquid pods sold by Juul in the United States, for instance, have nicotine concentrations of 35 or 59 milligrams per milliliter. Most of the flavoring chemicals used in e-cigarettes meet safety standards for ingesting as food additives but have not been tested as inhalants. There are limitations to the study: Of the roughly 450 e-cigarette products with 8,000 flavors, the study looked at only six flavors. Researchers collected samples from just 14 people. We would recommend kids dont smoke e-cigarettes, Wu said. For adults, we recommend if they want to quit smoking (cigarettes), they could switch to e-cigarettes but itd be nice after theyre on that for a while to completely quit rather than just rely on e-cigarettes because the flavorings also have issues. Catherine Ho is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: cho@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Cat_Ho Smart environmentalists are up in arms over the imminent closure of the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant, where a partial meltdown in 1979 squelched an industry. Exelon Generation, the owner of the last operational reactor at the Pennsylvania facility, says it will not order new uranium fuel for the plant before a June 1 deadline. Anti-nuclear activists are rejoicing; theyve been trying to shutter the plant for 45 years. Jane Fondas movie The China Syndrome had terrified America in 1979 with fears of a meltdown when twelve days later a faulty valve caused an accident and a small release of radioactive gas. On HoustonChronicle.com: America needs a Green New Deal, just not the one proposed Unlike the movie, there was no irreparable damage. No one was killed and the preponderance of scientific evidence suggests the release had negligible health effects. Nevertheless, Three Mile Island became shorthand for nuclear disaster and remained so even after far worse accidents at Chernobyl in Ukraine and Fukushima in Japan. Opposition to nuclear power became a tenet of environmental activism. But in the face of climate change, nuclear power is looking pretty good. Nuclear generation releases no greenhouse gases, making it an excellent source of clean energy. The 98 operating reactors in the U.S. generate 20% of the countrys electricity, according to the World Nuclear Association. More importantly, nuclear plants generate 60% of the clean energy produced in the U.S. Unfortunately, nuclear is expensive, which is why plant owners are threatening to shut down half of the countrys nuclear power capacity. Current power plants, including the only new plant under construction in Georgia, cannot compete with cheap electricity from natural gas. Traditional nuclear plants generate enormous construction, security and clean-up costs, even though the fuel is relatively inexpensive. High costs are not a big deal in places like Georgia, where utilities force customers to pay whatever price is necessary to recoup them. But most of the country is moving to competitive pricing, like Texas, where generators compete to provide the cheapest possible electron. Half of the nations nuclear power capacity is losing money and could shut down, according to a financial analysis by Bloomberg New Energy Finance. But replacing that power with wind and solar energy would take 11 years, according to a new study from Third Way, a center-left think tank. Losing that much nuclear generation would incentivize coal and natural gas power plants and drive up greenhouse gas emissions. New York and Illinois have both passed laws to reward nuclear plants for generating emission-free electricity, keeping six reactors online. But the threat of losing other reactors is making smart environmentalists rethink their opposition to nuclear power. On HoustonChronicle.com: Nuclear energy needs to shake off links to coal Ideally, wed want nuclear reactors to generate zero-carbon power throughout a 60-year life span, or even longer if theyre able to continue operating safely, Third Way researchers concluded. The only way the U.S. and other wealthy countries can cut greenhouse gases and meet the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement is to keep every nuclear plant online and even build new ones. The challenge is building safer nuclear plants that cost less to build and decommission. Oregon-based NuScale is developing small, modular reactors that are built in a factory and delivered to a power plant site. The company created a joint venture this month with Virginia-based Enfission, which is developing a new nuclear fuel technology to improve the economics and safety of existing and new reactors. The world is also making progress on fusion reactors, which recreate the suns process of creating energy while producing no dangerous waste. Chinese researchers have set a record by maintaining the conditions for a fusion reaction in their Tokamak reactor for 100 seconds. Late last year they achieved a record temperature of 180 million degrees Fahrenheit. The Chinese research feeds into the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor, the worlds largest fusion reactor under construction in France. The ITER reached a significant milestone this month when U.S.-based General Atomics completed the first stage of fabrication on the central solenoid, the heart of the project. While encouraging, small nuclear reactors are a decade away from generating commercial electricity, and fusion reactors will not start working before 2050. We need existing reactors in the meantime to keep powering our homes and businesses. President Donald Trump and Congress could make every nuclear power plant in the country profitable tomorrow if they passed a tax on carbon emissions. The tax would also incentivize more rsearch into new clean energy technologies and discourage coal. While wrong to oppose all nuclear power, environmentalists were right about one drawback of old-school plants. Though Three Mile Island will shut down in September, Exelon estimates the site will not be cool enough to disassemble until 2074. Tomlinson writes commentary about business, economics and policy. chris.tomlinson@chron.com twitter.com/cltomlinson Booming energy exports and shifting patterns in international commerce have made the Port of Laredo the nations top center for trade, supplanting the longtime leader, the Port of Los Angeles. In March, $20.1 billion of combined imports and exports moved through the Texas border city, surpassing the $19.7 billion through the Port of Los Angeles, according to recently released statistics from Commerce Department. Two key factors propelled Laredo ahead of Los Angeles growing U.S. trade with Mexico, much of which goes through Laredo, and declining trade with China, L.A.s top trading partner, as tariffs and counter-tariffs in the recent trade war take their toll. Laredos jump to number one was presaged in February, when Mexico surpassed both China and Canada to become the United States top trading partner. In February, total trade with Mexico was valued at $47.8 billion, compared to $46.3 billion with Canada and $41.6 billion with China, according to the Commerce Department. That was the real harbinger, said Ken Roberts, chief executive of WorldCity, a Miami company specializing in trade and trade data. Top U.S. Exports to Mexico via Laredo Rank Commodity YTD 1 Motor vehicle parts $2.82 B 2 Internal combustion engines $1.03 B 3 Gasoline, other fuels $785.98 M 4 Engine parts $457 M 5 Cell phones, related equipment $437.74 M 6 Centrifuges, filters, machines and parts $389.79 M 7 Taps, cocks and valves for pipes, tanks $345.34 M 8 Plastics $314.68 M 9 Rubber tires $296.66 M 10 Electrical supplies, apparatus, less than 1000V $276.4 M Source: Commerce Dept., World City Top U.S. Imports from Mexico via Laredo Rank Commodity YTD 1 Motor vehicle parts $4.19 B 2 Motor vehicles for transporting people $3.49 B 3 Tractors $2.13 B 4 Commercial vehicles $1.35 B 5 Computers $1.18 B 6 Cell phones, related equipment $1.05 B 7 Motor vehicle engines $829.17 M 8 Insulated wire, cable $804.96 M 9 Seats, excluding barber, dental $731.74 M 10 Air conditioning machines $722.07 M Source: Commerce Dept., World City See More Collapse Growing Trade In the first three months of the year, Los Angeles trade with China fell by 15 percent compared with the first three months of 2018, according to the Commerce Department. In Laredo, meanwhile, trade with Mexico rose by nearly 2 percent during the same period. Auto parts and engines account for about half the U.S.-Mexico trade through Laredo, but the rapid increase in energy exports to Mexico is driving the growth. Whether by pipeline, rail or tanker truck, southbound shipments of gasoline, diesel, liquefied natural gas and other products totaled nearly $786 million through March jump of nearly 70 percent from a year earlier. On HoustonChronicle.com: Keep on trucking: 18-wheelers haul LNG to Mexico This surge comes as Mexico, after the constitutional reforms of 2013, opened its energy markets to foreign investment and competition at the same U.S. oil and gas production climbs to new records. Mexico began private imports of diesel in January 2017, followed by gasoline in January 2018 and jet fuel in January 2019. Arguindegui Oil, a Laredo fuel distributor, became one of the first American suppliers of diesel by tanker truck to private customers in Mexico in 2017. Its tanker trucks haul up to 15 southbound shipments of gasoline and diesel per day from Laredo. We didnt do a lot of business in Mexico (before the reforms), but we understood the border, we had relationships with the refineries, said CEO Alfonso Arguindegui. We built up existing and new relationships in Mexico, thus being one of the first out of gate. San Antonio pipeline operator Howard Energy Partners began service on its Nueva Era Pipeline in June 2018, moving natural gas from Laredo to Monterrey - accounting for some of the border citys growing energy exports. Howard also uses an international railroad line in Laredo to ship gasoline, diesel and other products to a storage terminal the company owns in Guanajuato, about 230 miles northwest of Mexico City. Natural gas is also finding its way to Mexico by tanker trucks. The Mexico City liquefied natural gas company Enestas has been buying LNG from a Stabilis Energy plant in the South Texas town of George West since late 2017. Routed through Laredos Colombia bridge, the supercooled fuel is delivered to a growing number of industrial and agricultural customers hundreds of miles into the Mexican interior. Weve gone from moving a few truckloads to more than 1,000 in a matter of a few years, said Gregory Pilkinton, Enestas vice president of U.S. sales More Growth Ahead Laredo has long been the nation's busiest land port, ranking second to Los Angeles for all ports. Todd Staples, president of the Texas Oil & Gas Association, a trade group, said the Port of Laredo overtaking the Port of Los Angeles is another number one ranking that the industry has delivered to Texas. The state leads the nation in both energy production and exports. "This accomplishment is further evidence that unprecedented production, science-based policy and expanding infrastructure are cementing Texas' status as a global energy powerhouse and creating a cleaner, stronger energy future," Staples said in a statement. On HoustonChronicle.com: Border wait times swell Other energy exports could help solidify Laredos standing as the nations top trading hub. San Antonio pipeline operator NuStar Energy, for example, is building a project to move refined products from refineries in Corpus Christi and Three Rivers to Laredo and then across the border to a storage terminal under development across the border in n Nuevo Laredo. Howard Energy Partners holds a presidential permit to build the Dos Aguilas Pipeline, a project to move refined products from refineries in Corpus Christi to Laredo and then south of the border to Monterrey. In the meantime, it remains to be seen how the Trump administrations reshuffling of customs officers in April will affect Laredos trade numbers. The administration pulled 300 customs officers from their normal duties in Laredo to handle a growing number of Central American asylum seekers in other parts of the border - dramatically slowing traffic crossing the international bridge. Fuel Fix: Get energy news sent directly to your inbox Even if the number one status is short-lived, Laredo Mayor Pete Saenz said it was well-earned. "This is truly an example of how partnerships between government and the private sector can produce remarkable results that benefit our people," Saenz said in a statement. sergio.chapa@chron.com @SergioChapa on Twitter WASHINGTON - With growing volumes of natural gas from Texas and the rest of the United States sold abroad, developers are rushing to build new pipelines connecting oil and gas fields with border crossings and shipping ports. But a growing number of landowners and environmentalists are fighting those projects at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and in federal courts, challenging the notion that pipeline projects carrying gas destined for export are entitled to the same privileges granted infrastructure projects serving American customers. Under federal law, pipeline developers can seize land for construction as long as the project is deemed in the public interest. In the D.C Circuit Court of Appeals, the city of Oberlin, Ohio is challenging FERCs 2017 approval of a 275-mile pipeline moving Appalachian natural gas to Michigan through their city, arguing in part FERC erred because a substantial portion of the gas will be exported to Canada. Taking gas and using it for export doesnt benefit American consumers in any way. The only benefit is to the private corporations profiting from this said David Bookbinder, an attorney with the Niskanen Center, a libertarian think tank in Washington, who is following the case. Any of the LNG projects being built in Texas and anywhere else where a pipeline is being built, this (issue) is going to be raised. The Nexus pipeline, a joint venture between the Canadian pipeline company Enbridge and Detroit-based DTE Energy, has already been built and is operational. But were the court to find in Oberlins favor, FERC could be forced to define when a pipeline carrying gas for export is and is not in the public interest. With tens of thousands of miles of pipelines in development around North America, such an outcome has implications for billions of dollars of investment. Its significant, given the fact, the exports are a big driver for demand for gas, said Don Santa, president of the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America. No distinction The question of whether export pipelines are entitled to eminent domain authority remains under debate in legal circles, with some conservative legal scholars making the case that the public good defined under federal law is not limited to the American public. James Coleman, a law professor at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, likened landowners and environmentalists objections to pipelines carrying gas for export to those of states such as Missouri fighting off high-voltage power line projects carrying electricity from wind farms in Texas and Oklahoma to the eastern United States. On HoustonChronicle.com: Are pipeline land takings in public interest if oil, gas headed overseas? Theres dozens of cases like this in the state courts, he said. The law doesnt make any distinction between the local public and the foreign public. The idea we give zero weight to consumers abroad or the next state would be a bad thing for energy markets. FERC has granted eminent domain authority to pipelines carrying gas for export. But Nexuss attorneys are not taking any chances and have tried to make the case their pipeline should not be considered an export project because it also serves U.S. customers. To make this point, a spokesman for Enbridge noted the company and its partner had recently bought a 23-mile pipeline in Toledo, to deliver gas from Nexus to power plants and industrial facilities in Ohio. So far Nexus, which has a capacity of 1.5 billion cubic feet per day, has managed to book delivery on 885 million cubic feet per day. Of that 460 million is destined for export to Canada, said Carolyn Elefant, the Washington attorney representing Oberlin in the case. If only 1 or 2 million [cubic feet] of that gas wasnt staying in the country, we wouldnt have a case, she said. Were arguing if 59 percent is acceptable, you need to look at what proportion would not be acceptable. Mad as heck A decision on the Nexus case is not expected for months. But in the meantime a similar legal strategy is developing around a proposed 230-mile pipeline running through woodlands in Oregon to the site of another LNG export project, Jordan Cove, along the coast. FERC halted the project in 2016, saying the market benefits did not outweigh the damage to landowners property were eminent domain granted. But in hopes of getting a better outcome from FERC commissioners selected by President Donald Trump, Canadian firm Pembina Pipeline Corporation has submitted another application for the project and is expecting a decision next year. Fuel Fix: Get energy news sent directly to your inbox With the activist group Sierra Club and local landowners in opposition, a legal challenge would be likely were FERC to approve Jordan Cove , Bookbinder said. Theyre building pipelines in places where people are getting angrier and angrier, he said. james.osborne@chron.com Twitter: @osborneja FREDERICKSBURG For Pam and Joe Holzworth of Pasadena, a stop at the Studebaker Farms peach stand on Highway 290 was the sweet finale to their Hill Country getaway. I have to eat them over a sink theyre so juicy, Pam said as her husband dug out bills for a box of regals. She also was stocking up for favorite summertime treats, such as peach cobbler and frozen peaches blended into fruity cocktails. The couple are in luck this year. Despite a season marked by early and late freezes, rain dumps and heavy spring winds, just about every peach tree in just about every Hill Country orchard is full of ripe or ripening fruit. OnExpressNews.com: Read about 2017's wimpy crop Weve been skating through with a lot of blessings here, grower Russ Studebaker said, pointing out varieties hed felt for sure would fail. The Studebakers planted their first trees about 25 years ago, picking up 60 acres when land was cheap. Last week, he steered his 1961 Studebaker pickup through rows of newer and older trees. Lucas Mackan, a local college student, loaded peaches directly into boxes, following Studebakers guidelines: pick when the fruit has gone from green to blush and the coloring is either creamy or freckled red. Thats what keeps us in business, Studebaker said. You cant pick a peach green. It wont ripen fully. The best may be yet to come, as later-season varieties such as lorings, dixilands, red globes and ouachita gold (a yellow-skinned variety with a cult following) look to be in abundant supply. Down the road a few miles, Jamey Vogel of Vogel Orchard stopped short of predicting a record crop. But he said this years looks at least as good as the last really good crop in 2015 and has the potential to match the super good crop of 2010. Its been a nice surprise. In early March, we thought we were going to lose the whole crop, he said. We had a late winter blast. We had three mornings that were in the 20s. OnExpressNews.com: Read about how cold snapped the 2013 peach crop Hill Country peaches have a big following for a lot of reasons. The soils are said to be rich in flavor-enhancing minerals from deposits left by an ancient sea. The elevation allows for cool nights that provide winter chill hours necessary for buds to break dormancy. The region is on the edge of a Texas arid zone, which makes for a higher sugar content than most other peaches. But Texas weather is notoriously fickle. A warm winter can mean barren trees. Whats blossomed into a hearty crop can be wiped out by an Easter freeze. Growers never know when Mother Nature will pound their orchards with hail. Vogels theory is that the rains that preceded this years March freeze kept humidity levels high. When you really get the damage in the winter from a late freeze is when you have real low humidity, he said. Like many Hill Country peach orchards, Vogels is family-owned. His parents, George and Nelda, planted their first trees in 1953. They opened a roadside stand in 1972, joining a tourist-driven trade thats taken off over the last 20 years. In his opinion, the exploding Hill Country wine scene the region now ranks second to Californias Napa Valley for wine tourism has boosted business even more. People want to say, Oh, the wine industry is taking over. Its like theyre taking away from us. But its really added to the traffic here, Vogel said. The folks who buy wine also buy peaches. Its all made a destination out of what a few generations ago was an isolated community of German immigrants who mostly grew cotton. Mark Wieser, co-founder of the Fischer & Wieser brand of specialty jams and sauces and owner of Fredericksburgs Das Peach Haus, traces the start of the Fredericksburg peach industry to a post-World War I bust in cotton prices. In 1926, strapped suppliers called about 450 farmers to a meeting at the courthouse, and told them they needed to find a new, money-making crop. Wiesers father, who came from a fruit-growing region on the German-Swiss border, suggested fruit. By 1935, the region had the foundation of its current peach industry. He planted the first peach orchard in 1928. By junior high school, Mark Wieser figured out that sitting out by the side of the road with a sign touting fresh peaches could be lucrative. One day he made about $85, which he said is the equivalent of about $850 today. And there turned out to be plenty of business to go around. Don Eckhardt, now 87, said his parents were among the other peach pioneers, starting with about seven acres of Alberta peach trees in the 1930s. Acreage expanded until the family decided it was getting to be too much. The family now has about 50 acres behind their new stand on U.S. Highway 87. It wasnt always easy. The family once went consecutive seven years without a crop. Another year they got wiped out by hail. Something that looks very prosperous in a moments time, we were through, Eckhardt said. He recalled loading a truck with peaches and driving down country roads to be at the San Antonio market by 4 a.m. Now the market comes to them, including the fellow Fredericksburg old-timer who stopped by to fill a bag with peaches and speak for a few minutes in German. We went from wholesaling to retail, Eckhardt said with a smile. And we like it a lot better. 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 Difficulties finding workers and anxiety over trade disputes and tariffs are weighing on Texas manufacturers, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. Factory activity continued expanding in May but slowed as the production index, a key measure of manufacturing conditions, dropped and new orders also fell, according the Dallas Feds monthly manufacturing survey. Indexes measuring general business activity and company outlook both turned negative, while a metric assessing uncertainty about firms outlooks reached its highest point since last September. On ExpressNews.com: Toyota to decide by June 30 on almost $400 million plant upgrade We need a sensible immigration program to support manufacturing growth in the U.S., a food manufacturer wrote in comments to the Dallas Fed. We are turning down growth opportunities because of lack of labor. Factory owners are increasingly turning to robotics and automation to address efficiencies and employment shortages, a chemical manufacturing executive wrote. Tariffs are also affecting profit and loss, a machinery manufacturer told the Dallas Fed. More than 70 percent of companies are looking to hire workers and more than 80 percent are struggling to find qualified employees, said Emily Kerr, senior business economist at the Dallas Fed. This naturally translates into wage pressures, and well over half of surveyed firms say theyre increasing wages to recruit and retain employees, Kerr said. The Dallas Fed surveyed executives in the state from May 14-22 and 114 manufacturers responded. Texas produces roughly 10 percent of manufactured goods in the U.S. On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio programs prepare people for high-need, hard-to-fill jobs Across the state, theres increasing caution and uncertainty in manufacturing mainly because of tariffs, said Tony Bennett, president of the Texas Association of Manufacturers. Relations with China have gotten out of hand, he said, but its very painful to get back in line. Local manufacturers are concerned, too, but are better insulated than companies in Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston working in aerospace, computer and fabricated metal production, said Rey Chavez, CEO of the San Antonio Manufacturers Association. Finding employees is hard, particularly for small- and medium-sized firms, Chavez said. Some have turned to recruiting outside of San Antonio. On the other hand, Chavez is optimistic that the eventual outcome of U.S. trade wars will be favorable. Were wanting a fair and equitable deal with all trade partners, he said. We think that if we can wait it out a little more, things will get better. madison.iszler@express-news.net L-R: Camair-Co GM, Board Chairman & Deputy GM WhatsApp The Head of State President Paul Biya has in three separate decrees signed today Monday, May 27, 2019 appointed new officials at the helm of the Cameroon Airlines Corporation, Camair-Co. According to the decrees, Transport Minister Jean Ernest Ngalle Bibehe is the new Board Chairman of the financially ailing company, while his predecessor, Louis Georges Njifendi Kouotou is the new General Manager. Max Constant Mve will serve as the new Deputy General Manager of Camair-Co. The appointments were made known during an extra-ordinary board meeting of the corporation at the Yaounde Hilton Hotel today. They were installed shortly after the announcement of their promotions by the Minister of Transport Jean Ernest Ngalle Bibehe, the companys Board Chair. The Minister of Transport, the new Board Chair delivered the message from the Head of State who has designated a new management for Camair-Co. He was elected as Board Chair after his election by the Members of the Board of Directors. A general manager and his deputy have also been appointed, Njipendi Koutou, Camair-Cos new General Manager said shortly after the Board Meeting. While installing the new team, the Minister gave them specific instructions amongst them: the intense auditing of the corporation, reinforcing its aircrafts, and ensuring that its international flights take off by December 2019 at the latest beginning with Paris. The new General Manager agrees that the challenges are enormous. Hear him: Our national airline company is going through tremendous difficulties; financial wise, managerial wise and concerning human resources. These are very deep and hard challenges that the new team has to face. We want to count on all the personnel of Camair-Co as well as the government and the whole Cameroonian people to hold our hands together to move forward, to bring results, to let the company wake up once again and fly. Meanwhile Camair-Co's protracted problems are said to go beyond only necessitating a change of management. Many are those who say it needs complete overhauling. They started by changing the name of the company from Cameroon Airlines to Camair-Co thinking change of nomenclature could wish the company's problems away. Its not worked. Now, they have been changing General Managers. Will that work? a concerned Cameroonian wondered. All its fleet of six planes are said to be grounded and in need of urgent maintenance. The working condition among the staff of the company is said to be tense with several threats of industrial actions. The Cameroon Airlines Corporation, trading as Camair-Co, is the star and flag carrier of the country, a role which was previously filled by the now-defunct Cameroon Airlines. Camair-Co has its headquarters in the Immeuble La Rotonde in Douala, and operates out of the Douala International Airport. AUSTIN Republican House Speaker Dennis Bonnen tried to snuff out any remnants of the GOP civil war on Monday, saying attacks from the party's archconservatives are not worth stressing about and threatening consequences for House members who campaign against each other next year. With the legislative session over, lawmakers will soon turn their attention to 2020, when each of the 150 members of the House is up for re-election. Bonnen threatened political retribution against members who campaign against each other ahead of the 2020 elections, as happened in the 2018 midterms. That year, for example, Rep. Jonathan Stickland, R-Bedford, sent members of his staff to Houston to campaign against Republican Rep. Sarah Davis. Republican Gov. Greg Abbott also opposed Davis, as well as two other incumbent GOP lawmakers, in primary races. If that sort of thing happens in 2020, Bonnen said, he would publicly come out against members who take part and penalize them in the next legislative session if hes reelected speaker. The speaker assigns bills to committees and names committee members and chairmen, doling out power and influence. Bonnen said the warning applies to members of both parties and those who serve as party chairs. For subscribers: Anti-abortion group accuses Texas Republicans of betraying the cause We accomplished unprecedented things, Bonnen said, referencing an $11 billion plan lawmakers passed Saturday to change how schools are funded and curb the growth of property taxes. If members of the Legislature are out campaigning against each other, you then dont accomplish things like that because you bring the elections into the legislative process and you dont get over the wounds and the battles, Bonnen said. And then people turn into Washington, and youre simply here to legislate on politics, not on policy and not on accomplishment of success. Bonnen also dismissed an influential conservative group that has funded primary challenges against incumbent Texas lawmakers in an effort to push the Legislature further to the right. The group, Empower Texans, has trashed Bonnen all year for tanking bills that would have furthered anti-abortion efforts and strengthened certain gun laws. Aligned with tea party Republicans, it has funneled millions of dollars into Texas elections. Dozens of lawmakers followed the organizations lead in 2010, although the groups electoral victories dwindled to about 10 in the November midterm elections. The group did not respond to a request for comment Monday afternoon. Other groups, like Texas Right to Life and Texas Gun Rights, have also criticized Bonnens leadership on those issues. They arent worth responding to, Bonnen told reporters Monday. If we passed every pro-life bill filed in the history of the state, they would say we had not done enough. You will never please or appease those folks and Im sure as hell not going to waste my time trying. Texas Take: Get political headlines from across the state sent directly to your inbox Empower Texans uses disrespect and attacks to raise money, Bonnen said, adding lawmakers would be ill-advised to chase the groups agenda. You are fooling yourself and you are not respecting your constituents and you are not respecting this institution if you are chasing their wants and their desires, he said. The Legislature did not advance bills that would curtail access to abortion this year, irking Texas Right to Life. However, it passed legislation that would cut off funding to affiliates of abortion providers, such as Planned Parenthood, which provide screenings for cancer and sexually transmitted diseases. Texas Gun Rights and Lone Star Gun Rights are frustrated because a measure to allow all gun owners to openly carry their weapons in public failed to gain traction. Executive Director of Texas Gun Rights, Chris McNutt, went so far as to hand out fliers in Bonnens neighborhood advocating for the bills passage, setting off a public clash between the two and the bills ultimate demise. Andrea.Zelinski@chron.com A San Antonio man wept after being found not guilty Tuesday in his second trial in the deaths of two people at a West Side apartment in 2016. Luis Antonio Arroyo, 42, was tried again on lesser charges after court proceedings ended in a mistrial last year. The jury acquitted Arroyo on two counts of murder in the deaths of Rodney Spring, 47, who was shot once in the back, and Quickether Jackson, 36, who was shot five times and stabbed three times, on Jan. 21, 2016. Arroyo was moved to tears once Judge Mark Luitjen read the not guilty verdicts on both counts. Jacksons mother, Tandylyn Jackson, 59, was stabbed and shot in the attack which reportedly occurred after an argument over a pack of cigarettes. She named Tony as the attacker in a harrowing 911 call heard in court last week; defense attorneys had argued there were other men named Tony living in the same apartment complex. Arroyo initially was charged with capital murder in the attack that occurred in the Jacksons apartment in the 3800 block of Sherrill Brooks Drive. He was tried in July, but after 10 hours of deliberations over two days, the jury was not able to reach a unanimous verdict, so Judge Kevin OConnell declared a mistrial. The Bexar County District Attorneys Office opted to prosecute the case this time as a murder charge. Related: Brutal stabbing-shooting capital murder case ends in mistrial Lorina Rummel and Brandon Ramsey from the DAs office were the prosecutors in the case. They did not comment on the verdict. Arroyos defense attorneys, Raymond Fuchs and Joel Perez, argued in this trial, as in the last, that San Antonio police conducted a shabby investigation and did not follow up on reports that there was an unidentified man seen running down Bandera Road shortly after the incident. They also argued that the testimony of Tandylyn Jackson should not have been considered because she admitted to smoking crack cocaine that day. Six deputies were in the courtroom when the Bexar County jury of 10 women and two men came back in court with their verdict. Jurors, who usually stay afterward to speak to the judge and attorneys, declined to speak to anyone and abruptly left the court. Perez and Fuchs were pleased with the verdict. We never know what way they (the jury) will go, said Perez. We always felt the states evidence was not enough to convince the jury. Fred Harris, Quickether Jacksons father, said he still believes Arroyo was the gunman. I forgive the young man, though its a hard thing to do, said Harris. Hes someones child, but he killed my child. The jury received the case Friday. After about 4 hours of deliberations, the panel was released by Visiting Judge Mark Luitjen for the three-day Memorial Day weekend instead of being sequestered. Deliberations resumed at 9 a.m. Tuesday and the verdict was handed down at 2:43 p.m. While Arroyo was acquitted in the deaths, he will remain in prison to serve a 99-year sentence he received in March after he was convicted of escaping from a correctional facility. On March 2, 2018, Arroyo briefly escaped from the Bexar County jail with two others. Normally a third-degree felony, the escape charge was upgraded because Arroyo is considered to be a habitual offender. He will be eligible for parole in the escape case in 15 years. Elizabeth Zavala covers county and state courts in San Antonio. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | ezavala@express-news.net | Twitter: @elizabeth2863 The Docket is weekly podcast with courts and crime reporter Elizabeth Zavala as she breaks down the trials in the Bexar County courthouse. The Docket is produced by Joy-Marie Scott and Chance Dorland. Listen and subscribe on: Apple Podcasts Google Play Stitcher TuneIn iHeart Radio All Episodes Prosecutors successfully argued to keep personal property, including a Bible, from convicted child killer Genene Jones, who is accused of murder in the deaths of five San Antonio children in the 1980s. At a recent hearing before Judge Frank Castro in the 399th state District Court, Jones attorney, Cornelius Cox, asked the court to return Jones address book, her personal Bible, letters and personal documents. On ExpressNews.com: Prosecutor: Notes in child killers Bible make references to her own sin Cox said she had those items while in prison for 34 years. He questioned the seizure of them, a decision made by former Bexar County District Attorney Nicholas "Nico" LaHood. "They wanted to harass her and annoy her," Cox told the court. "They took her Bible. Why did they remove that possession?" But Catherine Babbitt, chief of major crimes for the DA's Office, argued Jones' writings may be evidence in either a future competency trial or something else. Elizabeth Zavala covers county and state courts in San Antonio. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | ezavala@express-news.net | Twitter: @elizabeth2863 A Fort Worth real estate firm bought The Westin Riverwalk hotel valued at around $79 million in downtown San Antonio last week, property records show. A partnership made up of executives with San Antonio development firms Silver Ventures and Hixon Properties sold the 473-room hotel at 420 W. Market to Fort Worth-based Crescent Real Estate, according to Bexar County deed records. County documents dont show a sale price. But the Bexar Appraisal District valued The Westin Riverwalk at about $78.8 million earlier this year. A representative for Crescent Real Estate did not immediately return a call requesting comment. On ExpressNews.com: Land-swap deal could bring Hays Street saga to a close The sale, which was completed last week, is the latest development in a downtown hotel market seeing increased investor interest and the addition of fancier hotel options. Luxury hotel chain W Hotels plans to open an upscale hotel in a 20-story building being developed by San Antonio-based GrayStreet Partners at 1603 Broadway. California developer Harris Bay plans to build a 112-room boutique hotel on a 0.2-acre lot at 151 E. Travis, next to the River Walk. The firm bought the lot in April. On ExpressNews.com: California developer plans 112-room boutique hotel for downtown San Antonio A planned Thompson Hotel at 123 Lexington, part of a $116 million high-rise being developed by Houston firm DC Partners, will have more than 160 premium hotel rooms. San Antonio developer Craig Glendenning is renovating the Hedrick Building a blighted 10-story structure at 601 N. St. Marys into a 47-room hotel that will be operated by Stay Alfred, a Washington-based startup that rents out apartments on a short-term basis. Safety, Income and Growth Inc. a New York real estate investment firm bought the Hotel Valencia property, but not the hotel itself, for more than $14 million in January. The hotel completed a $10 million renovation in 2017. On ExpressNews.com: Jefferson Bank tower planned near downtown San Antonio gets initial approval The Westin land also falls within a federal opportunity zone that covers much of downtown one of two dozen within the San Antonio area. President Donald Trumps $1.5 trillion tax bill in 2017 and the U.S. Treasury Department established opportunity zones areas with slow economic growth where investors can receive tax breaks on capital gains if they put that capital into long-term investments within the zones. Its unclear whether the hotels new owner will be eligible for the tax break. Joshua Fechter is a San Antonio-based staff writer covering real estate, economic development and philanthropy. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | jfechter@express-news.net | Twitter: @JFreports Atanga Nji (Cameroon) & Nganfouomo (Congo) Facebook Atanga Nji Paul, Cameroon's Minister of Territorial Administration has today Tuesday, May 28, 2019 received a high level delegation from the Republic of Congo for a 5-day working visit to Cameroon. The Congolese delegation is led by Charles Nganfouomo, Minister Delegate in Congo's Ministry of Administration and Decentralisation. Top on the agenda of the working visit is the issue of land boundary demarcation between the two neighbouring countries. Cameroon and Congo share a 460 kilometre long border as per the treaties in Berlin in 1909. Interestingly, only 40 kilometers is a land border with 320 kilometres being the River Ngoko. Most of these borderline is in the dense equatorial forest and in swampy zones. The 5-day meeting will also take the Congolese Minister to the Ministry of External Relations where he will be received in audience. Meanwhile, experts on issues of decentralisation and boundary demarcation from both countries will use the working visit to map out ways of concretizing boundary demarcation pillars between Cameroon and Congo, given that the equatorial dense forest and swampy border between the two nations pose as a barrier to effective border demarcation by planting boundary pillars. The experts from the two countries will until Friday brainstorm on a legal framework and the program of activities until 2022, the deadline prescribed by the African Union for all its member states to demarcate their borders. Opening the Cameroon-Congo Board Mix Commission in Yaounde today, Minister Atanga Nji Paul of Cameroon and Charles Nganfouomo of Congo praised the excellent relations between the two CEMAC member countries evident of which is the construction of the Yaounde-Brazzaville Corridor Highway passing through Sangmelima and Ouesso. The Congolese Minister, who of recent was made an honorary citizen of Sangmelima in Cameroon's South Region, said the long ties between Cameroon and Congo go beyond boundary issues. He said the two countries equally share history and culture whereby some ethnic groups are living peacefully in both countries. He cited common projects both countries have embarked on which included the Pan African University in Sangmelima, the training of Congolese in EMIA, the Higher Police College and ENAM. Both Ministers say the relations between Congo and Cameroon have been rosy thanks to the goodwill of President Paul Biya and President Denis Sassou Nguesso. Several cities have recently expressed interest in establishing nonstop flights to Belgrade, with talks between relevant stakeholders currently taking place. The Moroccan Ambassador to Serbia, Mohammed Amine Belhaj, reiterated plans this month to connect the two countries with a nonstop air service. "The increase in the number of tourists from Serbia to Morocco is our utmost goal, and in this sense, strengthening Morocco's air connectivity and its accessibility is at the heart of our concerns. The cooperation agreement in the air transport sector signed between Morocco and Serbia is the perfect illustration of that, as it demonstrates our determination to open up to this strategic region. This is important for us as it has allowed for several air links to be established recently between countries in the region and Morocco, such as flights to Budapest, Vienna and Warsaw. I hope that this step, which is part of a gradual process, will include Belgrade soon". Low cost airline Air Arabia Maroc is considering introducing flights to the Serbian capital, after the national carrier Royal Air Maroc, which showed initial interest in flying from Casablanca, decided against the move. The Mayor of the Black Sea resort city of Sochi in Russia has initiated the introduction of flights to Belgrade. The Serbian Minister for Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications, Rasim Ljajic, said, "This initiative has been met with great understanding and can be used to increase people-to-people exchange between our two countries. Sochi is an important destination for us. I have held talks with the Mayor of Sochi and we also discussed what Serbia has to offer to Russian travellers. However, the prerequisite is for nonstop flights to be launched between our two cities. I believe this initiative is a real turning point". Russian carrier iFly Airlines recently received permits from the country's federal aviation authority Rosaviatsia to launch flights from Sochi to Belgrade. The company filed an application to operate up to four weekly services from the Black Sea resort city, however, it is yet to schedule any flights. The Lviv Regional State Administration in Ukraine has also said it is working on establishing flights to Belgrade. Serbian tourists have shown great interest in travelling around Ukraine. There is particular interest in pilgrimage trips, as well as culinary tourism. The Lviv region has something to show, surprise and please Serbian tourists, so we are working on the introduction of flights to Belgrade", the Tourism and Resort Department of the Lviv Regional State Administration said. Located in western Ukraine, Lviv is served by a dozen carriers, comprised of both full fare and low cost airlines. Air Serbia will introduce flights to Kiev, which is some 540 kilometres east of Lviv, next week. Retired U.S. Army Capt. Aaron Hall said he and his family chose to move to New Canaan because it reminded him of a Norman Rockwell atmosphere. On Memorial Day, he paid tribute to his brothers in arms who did not return after serving with him in the Middle East during ceremonies at Lakeview Cemetery following New Canaans Memorial Day Parade. In one case, an emotional Hall told of having to notify the wife and children of a family that earlier had welcomed him with open arms that their husband and father, who returned to the Middle East after retiring from military service, had been killed. Hall served in the Army from 2004 to 2014, primarily with the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Hall completed two combat deployments to Iraq during the campaigns of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation New Dawn. He also served on Foreign Internal Defense missions to the Middle East training fellow Special Forces. During his first deployment to Iraq, in 2006-2007, he was responsible for planning, developing and executing 52 humanitarian aid projects, totaling $15.2 million, to the southern Iraq cities of Mahmudiyah, and Lutifiyah. These projects resulted in 20 new schools being built, 25 miles of new roads being paved, new bridges being built, modernization of the electrical grid, purification of water to remote villages and farmers, economic conditions supporting the development of city governance, numerous labor jobs being created and children returning to school. From 2008 to 2010, Hall managed a 40-person Intelligence Detachment supporting 400 Special Forces operators on broad-based rapid deployment missions that ranged from the Horn of Africa to Western Afghanistan. During Halls service, he received the Meritorious Service Medal, five Army Commendation Medals, two Valorous Unit Awards, a National Defense Service Medal, a Global War on Terrorism Medal, two Iraqi Campaign Medals with Campaign Stars, an Army Service Ribbon, an Overseas Service Ribbon, a Parachutist Badge, a German Armed Forces Badge and German Language Proficiency. Hall, his wife Kristin, and their two children, 2-year-old Abigail, and 6-year-old Theodore, moved to New Canaan in October 2018. He works at UBS Financial Services Inc. in Greenwich, and she works as a pediatric physician assistant in Stamford. The parade was led by Grand Marshal Lisa Melland, who placed a wreath in memory of those who lost their lives in service during the ceremony at Lakeview Cemetery. Melland, a resident of New Canaan for 23 years, served as regent of the Hannah Benedict Carter Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, in New Canaan for the last three years. He was recently elected to the office of Connecticut DAR state chaplain and appointed as a national vice chairman at DAR Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Barclays has formed a new partnership with an agricultural equipment manufacturer to launch a new credit card just for farming businesses. The bank's partnership with manufacturer AGCO means cardholders will be able to benefit from extended interest-free credit on purchases at participating dealers. This period has been increased up to 116 days - which is 60 days longer than a typical business credit card - when used for purchases at any participating AGCO dealer. The AGCO Parts credit card is a co-branded card issued by Barclaycard on the Mastercard network. It can also be used anywhere Mastercard commercial cards are accepted. Purchases can be made in-store or via the AGCO dealers website and cover all products and services available from the dealership, not just AGCO brands. Cardholders will also benefit from up to 56 days' interest-free credit on purchases made anywhere a Mastercard commercial card is accepted. Ian Reid, Director of Small Business at Barclaycard, said the partnership provides farmers with 'greater flexibility' when it comes to maintaining a healthy cash flow. Agriculture continues to be a key focus area for us and we have been supporting farmers for many years, developing a deep and unique insight into the industry and the challenges that it has faced. While cash flow management is crucial for any growing business, seasonal fluctuations and volatile market conditions make it all the more challenging in this sector, he said. The announcement is the latest in a series of Barclaycard co-branded credit card partnerships, which began with builders' merchants Travis Perkins and Toolstation last year. A social media manager who previously tweeted humorous antics to do with rural England has now landed a job at Tesla following a viral tweet about sheep. Adam Koszary, 28, worked at Reading University's Museum of English Rural Life, an archive dedicated to 'recording the changing face of farming and the countryside in England'. His job involved posting lighthearted content surrounding English rural life on Twitter, a platform where he eventually caught the eye of Tesla boss Elon Musk. It goes back to last year, when Koszary tweeted a photo of an Exmoor Horn ram from the 1960s with the headline 'look at this absolute unit'. look at this absolute unit. pic.twitter.com/LzcQ4x0q38 The Museum of English Rural Life (@TheMERL) 9 April 2018 The picture went viral, receiving more than 110,000 likes and drawing the attention of Musk, who shared the image to his 20+ million followers. After this, a bizarre exchange ensued. Musk swapped his Twitter profile picture to the image of the sheep, and Kozary changed the museum's Twitter name to the 'Muskeum of Elongish Rural Life' and its profile picture to Musk's face. Switched souls with The Museum of English Rural Lofe https://t.co/X41ZWc9sip Elon Musk (@elonmusk) 19 April 2019 Following that, the rural museum worker announced the news that Tesla hired him as their social media manager. Located at Reading University's London Road Campus, the museum holds over 25,000 objects and provides a material record of rural England covering 1750 to the present day. The NFU has urged farmers impacted by labour shortages to contact their MP to make the case for expanding the new Seasonal Workers Pilot Scheme. The pilot, announced by Home Secretary Sajid Javid and Defra Secretary Michael Gove last September, means farms are able to employ migrant workers for up to six months. Two operators Concordia and Pro-Force have been licenced to manage the pilot and are responsible for identifying suitable workers and matching them to farmers. The first workers arrived on farms this spring, but some farm businesses continue to experience labour shortages. The NFU is asking the government to expand the scheme's scope and convert it to a 'permanent, fully-functioning scheme' which will provide more migrant labour. If youre impacted by labour shortages please contact your MP and ask them to make the case to the Home Office to deliver on long-term access to seasonal labour for farming, the union said. A ready-made template has been created with key asks that can be emailed directly to an MP. The pilot is intended to run until the end of December 2020, and will be reviewed by government before any decisions are taken on running a future scheme. It comes as the UK requires approximately 80,000 seasonal agricultural workers every year and the Office for National Statistics has stated that 99% of these workers come from countries within the EU. But farmers have seen a sharp decline in the number of seasonal workers since the UK voted to leave the bloc. Nick Marston, Chairman of British Summer Fruits, said farms are reporting staff shortages of 10-20% already, and to have any effect in terms of supporting the industry, around 10,000 are needed now not 2,500. The proposal represents a 4% increase in a shrinking workforce, the UK berry industry grows by at least 8% per annum and this will not sustain a standstill, let alone growth, he said. Last year, the severity of the crisis led the leader of the NFU to highlight how 'food is rotting in the fields', yet the industry sees 'no action' to help alleviate concern. British farmers are looking toward a future where the crop protection toolkit is substantially decreased amid a backdrop of the UK's population reaching 73 million people by 2040. To produce sufficient and safe food for the growing population, chemical usage has become an intrinsic part of farmers and growers toolkit. However, that toolkit is rapidly decreasing as substances are banned while public perception that all chemicals are bad for the environment grows. And, while sustainable farming is increasingly challenging, in theory a future without pesticides could be possible; though this is unlikely to happen in the near future. Amid these concerns, AHDB has called for the industry to adopt a fully integrated approach to managing pests, weeds and diseases, to support sustainable farming in the long-term. Head of Crop Protection at the levy board, Jon Knight, said pests are developing resistance to existing crop protection measures amid a general decrease in tools used to combat such threats. Our farmers are more than aware that there are hundreds of species of weeds, diseases and plant-eating insects, which severely impact farmers ability to produce high quality food. An integrated approach to managing pests and diseases will no longer be an option, but a mandate to operate, he said. Industry partners and government regulators are trying to find a means for the agricultural industry to gain approval for new, sustainable methods to protect crops and the environment. There is a long history of crop protection, with sulphur used to control diseases for at least 2,000 years. And in reality, all farmers, including organic, use some form of crop protection albeit with synthetic or naturally occurring chemicals. But the AHDB says new food production methods must support the expected population growth as global demand will also increase at the same time. Mr Knight added: While government is developing its policy around future crop production and environmental management, were continuing to find real means of targeting and tailoring methods to protect crops and improve our land. For example, its possible to collect disease spores with spore traps then test those samples to understand firstly, whether a disease is present, secondly, what method to choose to rapidly treat it. This then reduces the need to use chemicals. To target pests and diseases, farmers and growers are also needing to become technical experts to process information on weather, forecasts, and control choices to deal with our changing conditions, he said. According to AHDB, sharing information is vitally important; working with Rothamsted Research, initiatives like Aphid News provides regional data, so farmers and growers can reduce unnecessary or poorly timed sprays. Mr Knight added: This integrated approach gives our industry information to make changes, while our knowledge exchange teams can help build confidence in techniques and new technologies. While population growth and environmental change continues, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) estimates indicate that up to 40 per cent of global crop yields are lost each year due to pests, weeds and diseases, losses that are neither a profitable or productive way to produce food. Farmers and landlords have a 'key opportunity' to consider new government proposals on the future of the agricultural tenanted sector. The 12-week consultations stemming from the work of the Tenancy Reform Industry Group (TRIG) aim to to secure the future of the UK agricultural tenanted sector. The proposed changes to the Agricultural Holdings Act 1986 and the Agricultural Tenancies Act 1995 are intended to provide legislative support to the developing policy in the sector. It could mean a big overhaul for the sector in England and Wales, from changes to succession rights to removing investment barriers and introducing short notices to quit. Many in the sector are hoping the proposals will encourage landlords and tenants to have closer working relationships in future in order to improve productivity. Mike Holland, secretary and adviser to the Agricultural Law Association (ALA), said farmers need to consider whether the proposals 'assist or impede' progress in the tenanted sector. Much of the focus has been on the people who manage holdings since TRIG 2017 and moving forward maximising the outcome from any new support regimes will need greater cohesion between landlord and tenant. Its vital that professionals respond to the consultations to ensure the new legislation meets the sectors needs, he said. 'We need a culture change' Besides future support policies, developing better relationships between both parties could mean having more frequent progress reviews about the holding rather than just the three-yearly rent review. Mr Holland added: If this is a rare occurrence now, it needs to change, whether through legislation or pure industry best practice. We need a culture change - the adoption of an annual tenant/landlord meeting, with a constructive and co-operative approach at its heart, could unlock much-needed improvements beyond the legislative changes. When it comes to establishing new tenancies or reviewing old ones, its also a good idea to encourage clients to go a bit further than signing up to an off the shelf agreement, said Mr Holland. In many cases this has been the easiest and most cost-effective means of agreement. However, exploring the long-term objectives of the parties may result in a more bespoke arrangement to reflect these. There is no one size to fit all approach, he said. It might be the case that other agreements are required to operate alongside tenancies, for example, a joint venture, contract farming agreement or lease for diversification. The deadline for responses to be submitted is 2 July. Farmers and landowners in the Humber region have been encouraged to take part in a project which wants to temporarily flood agricultural land. The Water for Farming and Wildlife (WFFW) project is looking for one to five hectares of land near to the Humber estuary for a duration of nine or 18 months. The project, started in 2015 with the Environment Agency and RSPB, looks at the feasibility of techniques that could be used to both create permanent or temporary wetland habitats. It also wants to provide management benefits to local farmers, such as by helping control pests control and irrigation. Similar studies have already been carried out in the Netherlands and the US. In 2018, the team carried out experiments on 10m x 10m plots that were filled with water with the change in certain soil nutrients, water quality and wildlife assessed. While small, the trial plots quickly attracted wading birds, including moorhens. The team would now like to carry out field trials on plots averaging 2ha and are looking for landowners to take part. Alys Farndale, of the Environment Agency, said the project is now seeking landowners to offer land so that the potential risks and benefits to soil health can be studied. So far, early results from our small-scale trials suggest that land can be brought back into use with no discernible differences to growing crops. The field scale trials will help us to fully understand potential risks, benefits and logistics of temporary wetlands in the Humber area, as well as understanding benefits to wildlife. She added: Turning fields into temporary wetland can be good crop rotation practice. Other studies, such as in the Netherlands, suggest that it could even lessen the need for pesticides, and we are keen to test whether this is true for farmland around the Humber. Seonaidh Jamieson, who leads on the project for the RSPB, said temporary wetlands could help link vital habitat for waders if adopted into agricultural rotations in the future. To show interest or for more information, email alys.farndale@environment-agency.gov.uk. The deadline is Friday 14 June. The work done by a Scottish red meat body to 'protect and enhance' the sector's reputation has 'never been more important', its chair has said. Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) has encouraged people working in the red meat sector to support forthcoming campaigns to communicate the industrys positive messages. In the coming weeks, the new Meat with Integrity campaign will focus on the industrys sustainability and animal welfare messages. The public body is inviting farmers and others who work in the industry to help with the campaign. Speaking at a briefing to announce further activity plans for the year ahead, Kate Rowell, QMS Chair, emphasised a key focus of the organisations activity for the 2019/20 year will be to increase the work it does to promote the industry. Mrs Rowell said further industry support will make a 'huge difference': In the coming weeks we will be launching our brand new Meat with Integrity campaign which focuses on the industrys sustainability and animal welfare messages. She added: As a farmer and a vet I am well aware of the challenges faced by our industry and equally aware of the dedication and sheer hard graft that goes into producing the nutritious food source that is quality assured beef, lamb and pork. Having spoken with hundreds of people I am also aware of the immense frustration being felt at grassroots level about the wave of unbalanced media coverage driven by some very well-funded organisations with an anti-red meat agenda. 'Know your beef' QMS is, she said, delighted with the response from the industry in support of the recent Know Your Beef campaign and keen to build on this in coming months. We are encouraging everyone to miss no opportunities to share their pride in the care and commitment which goes into producing the quality assured beef, lamb and pork we are famed for throughout the world. It comes as the body launches a video as part of its support of LEAF Open Farm Sunday on June 9th to encourage farmers to support the initiative. We have this week launched a video as a final major push in our drive to support LEAFs Open Farm Sunday initiative in Scotland to reach its target of 30 farms actively involved this year, Mrs Rowell said. There is a real opportunity ahead of us to unite as an industry to communicate our commitment to sustainable farming and our moral obligation to produce a nutrient dense food source from a land with abundant water which is ideally suited to converting grass into food. She said Scottish livestock farmers share an 'immense pride' in their role in maintaining Scotlands landscape and providing habitats for wildlife some of which could not survive without the existence of grazing animals. We will also be asking farmers and others involved in our industry to join with us in actively celebrating and showcasing farmers commitment to enriching the environment on their farms, ahead of World Environmental Day on June 5th, Mrs Rowell added. A record 3 million vines has been planted in England and Wales this year, making the UK one of the world's fastest growing wine regions. Latest planting figures confirming that around 3 million vines were planted this year - equating to an additional 690 hectares of vineyards and a 24% increase in the overall land now under vine. This is nearly double that planted last year (1.6 million vines) and three times the 1 million vines planted in 2017, making the wine industry one of the fastest-growing agricultural sectors in the UK. Whilst much of the planting has taken place in counties of South East of England, the spread of vines includes Gloucestershire, Northamptonshire, Devon, Somerset, Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and Wales. It comes as the wine industry celebrates English Wine Week and Welsh Wine Week, which started on Saturday 25 May until Sunday 2 June. 'Thriving industry' The industrys trade body Wines of Great Britain (WineGB) said the British wine industry is 'thriving'. This impressive figure of 3m vines represents another milestone in the growth of our fantastic industry, said Simon Robinson, Chairman. Last year we set out our vision that in the next 20 years, at the rate of current growth, we could be producing some 40 million bottles per year. Were certainly heading towards that. These growth figures come off the back of the UKs most successful vintage last year, following the summer and harvest of 2018 which yielded some 15.6m bottles. This smashed the previous production figure, which up until this year averaged at around 5 million bottles. Home-grown wines It comes at a time when English and Welsh wines are enjoying wider popularity in the UK, with most supermarkets now stocking home-grown wines as well as featuring on restaurant and retailer lists around the country. Wine tourism is also providing a popular pastime, with some 200 vineyards open to the public across the country. There are over 500 commercial vineyards and 165 wineries in the UK today. 69% of all wines produced in the UK are sparkling. The Fauquier Times is honored to serve as your community companion. To say thank you, we are excited to offer 4 weeks FREE Digital & Print access to all subscribers new and returning alike. We are dedicated to continuing providing reliable, high quality journalism. This is possible with the trust and support of our subscribers in the community we are proud to serve. Category Select Category Apparel/Garments Textiles Fashion Technical Textiles Information Technology E-commerce Retail Corporate Association Press Release SubCategory Select Sub-Category MINISTER FOR EMPLOYMENT AT THE LAUNCH OF THE TACKLING CHILDCARE The Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, His Excellency - Mr. John Feakes The International Finance Corporation (IFC) Resident Representative, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Kiribati & Tuvalu - Mr. Deva De Silva Members of the Diplomatic Corps Members from Government Invited dignitaries and guests Ladies and gentlemen Ni Sa Bula and a Good afternoon to everyone, Ladies and gentlemen, it is a great pleasure to be part of an initiative that affects all Fijian families. We are gathered here to work towards creating supportive workplaces for women and men. High quality and affordable childcare make a difference to employment and productivity. A recent report shows only eight percent of working parents surveyed currently use a childcare service. This is a sector that needs to be lifted to provide more childcare options in Fiji. Ladies and gentlemen, the Fiji First Government since its first term in office, has prioritized early childhood education. And now we look forward to providing an enabling set of policies for the provision of childcare services for children under five years of age. I welcome the initiative by the International Finance Corporation and the funding support from the Australian government. On a related note, my congratulations to PM Scott Morrison and his party on their election win in Australia this past week. And we look forward to more key funding in the Vuvale or family initiative, that began with the hosting of PM Morrison and an Australian delegation by our Honorable Prime Minister late last year. Partnerships are key drivers of change. I congratulate IFC for driving this initiative in Fiji. And at the same time, I would also like to acknowledge the 7 private sector businesses for your keen participation that has allowed for the completion of this study. The Fiji First government recognizes the significance of this study. It has taken a proactive step with the recommendation for a National Taskforce on Early Childhood Care. Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to inform all of you that the process is already under way for the setup of this taskforce under the National Coordinating Committee on Children chaired by the Ministry of Women, Poverty Alleviation and Social Services. The objective of the taskforce will be to identify and prioritize the governments response to the growing demand for childcare services. As we become a more urbanized and wage economy dependent society, our traditional safety net, usually of grandparents or family members is not able to cater for all our childcare needs. The traditional safety net of family, usually grandparents, and the wider community providing childcare, is lost in these situations. Here most working parents end up relying on unqualified babysitters to care for their children while at work. We need a better understanding the childcare needs of Fijian workers to help private and public sector develop solutions tailored to the local context. This will ensure that more women get in, and stay in, the workforce. This will also help ensure Fijian businesses and the Public Sector are as productive as possible. It will also improve employment opportunities for our young citizens through a more productive and efficient Fiji, this generating more employment through investments and job creation. Ladies and gentlemen, as we are talking about tackling childcare, I would also like to take this opportunity to highlight one of the main key responsibilities of my Ministry that is; tackling child labor. Parents role is to earn a living for their families. Child care is a critically important factor for working parents in making a living. When there is a breakdown of parental roles as providers, and lack of childcare can be a contributing factor to this; sometimes children can be forced into employment or used to earn an income for the family by other means. It is important that we study the lack of childcare as a contributing factor to child labor. And if it is a contributing factor, or even more than that, then our work in eradicating child labor, will have to address and provide childcare as a means of alleviating the problem. Ladies and gentlemen, studies and our experiences show that quality, affordable, accessible and reliable Child care options help parents work consistently. This provides the optimum conditions for happy workers and happy families to contribute to Fijis economy and productivity. With the provision of uniform and accessible formal child care services, parents know that their children are being well looked after. And this peace of mind, for their precious little ones, means that we have happier, more focused and productive work force. It is also a win-win situation for employers and employees, as it provides a safety net that is enabling in producing the right conditions for a sustainable work environment for workers, families, employers and for the nation at large. Ladies and gentlemen, some other benefits for all stakeholders include: Productivity at work. feeling organizations support workers and improve their work-life balance. workers are less likely to leave their job to pursue other opportunities. workers are more likely to return to work after the birth of their child because of the benefits being offered. workers consider these types of benefits when making the decision to work for the organization. Ladies and gentlemen, childcare when provided in an accessible and sustainable manner offers long-lasting social economic and wellness benefits for children and their parents. For Employers and Employees. For all Fijians and for the Fiji Government. Ladies and gentlemen, I sincerely thank and congratulate the International Finance Cooperation, the Australian Government, and our Fijian corporate and employee stakeholders, for their contributions that has enabled the launching today of a new study on how child care responsibilities impact working parents and their employers in Fiji. Ladies and gentlemen, on that concluding note, I thank you for your attention and patience today. I look forward to the results of the study and its role in creating supportive workplaces for all Fijians by meeting their childcare needs. Thank you Vinaka Vaka Levu One of the most awaited films of 2019, Salman Khan-Katrina Kaif starrer Bharat will be hitting the theatrical screens on June 5. The film helmed by Ali Abbas Zafar is an Indian adaptation of the Korean film 'Ode To My Father'. With the release date of the film inching closer, the makers can now take a sigh of relief as the latest reports suggest that the film has been granted certification by the CBFC. According to a report in TOI, the Salman Khan starrer was highly being praised by the Censor Board team and director Ali Abbas Zafar was even hailed for creating such an interesting plot. The film has been passed without any cuts and has been granted U/A certification. Now that's some great news, isn't it? Speaking about the film, Ali Abbas Zafar recently said in an interview, "A lot of research went into making this film. The film's span is 70 years - it begins from 1947 and goes up till 2010. When we were writing the film, because it is an adaptation of Korean film 'An Ode To My Father', it was very important what part of the history were we touching and bringing into our script. At heart, Bharat is a very emotional and simple story about a displaced family where a son makes a promise to his father. In that journey, you see him travel and live 70 years. And in those 70 years what is simultaneously happening in the country become a parallel plot that why the tagline is "journey of a man and a nation together". It was definitely very challenging in its writing as well as its execution because whatever time frame we were setting his life chapters in, has a definite beginning and an end. It is like six Salman Khan films packaged in one," the filmmaker said. When Katrina Kaif was asked about her role in the film, she said, "As an actor, I think it is definitely my most incredible experience working with Ali.. we have done three films together, but I can honestly say that this film has been the best experience so far and I think we have got super super excited for everyone to see the film." On being asked about Katrina's performance in the film, Salman said, "Katrina has done a lot of hard work. She has done a brilliant job in the film. She will definitely win National Award for her performance." Bharat has a promising ensemble cast which includes Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, Disha Patani, Tabu, Jackie Shroff, Sunil Grover and Nora Fatehi. Varun Dhawan has a cameo appearance in the film and the makers have kept his role under the wraps. Ali Abbas Zafar DEFENDS Salman Khan: He Isn't 'Dragging' Priyanka Chopra In Bharat Promotions Yash The KGF actor shares a warm relationship with Dr Raj's family. He was spotted at Yuva Rajkumar's wedding reception last night. However, his wife and actress Radhika Pandit was missing. Rashmika Mandanna Kodava beauty Rashmika Mandanna took some time off her busy schedule to wish the newly-wed couple. She looked elegant in a black sleeveless top with her hair let loose. Chiranjeevi Telugu actor Megastar Chiranjeevi flew down to attend Dr Rajkumar's grandson's wedding reception. A few days ago, Yuva Rajkumar along with uncle Puneeth Rajkumar had been to the superstar's residence to invite him personally. Upendra & Priyanka Upendra and Priyanka were seen posing casually before the camera. Priyanka looked gorgeous in her pink suit. The couple recently returned from their US trip. Ravichandran RavichandranCrazy Star Ravichandran is himself held up with his daughter Geethanjali's wedding preparation. Yet, he was spotted at Yuva Rajkumar's reception. Rachita Ram Nata Sarvabhouma actress Rachita Ram arrived in style for Yuva Rajkumar's reception. She was seen wearing a designer off shoulder pink gown. She looked beautiful. Srimurali Srimural and Yuva Rajkumar are related. He was one celebrity who was a part of all of the pre-wedding and wedding rituals. Last night, he was spotted taking a selfie with Yuva and Sridevi. Abhimanyu Chaudhary, who is a model and was seen in the promo of Ekta Kapoor's Kasautii Zindagii Kay 2 and is currently seen playing a negative role in Manmohini, has got into major trouble. According to ANI report, the actor along with his friend was arrested for allegedly thrashing and attacking a salon employee with a knife! It is being said that the duo went to the salon after the actor's friend accused the salon employee of touching her inappropriately. The senior police inspector of Mumbai Police, Shailesh Pasalwad told ANI, "We have arrested Abhimanyu and his friend and have registered a case against the duo and their woman friend who had called them to the salon." As per the report, the actor's friends called him and revealed that one of the employees of the salon allegedly touched her inappropriately while massaging her head. The actor and his friend reached the salon in Lokhandwala and started beating the employee. They also attacked him with a knife. As per Times Now report, the actor and his friend have been arrested under sections 354, 324 and 326 of the Indian Penal Code. Apparently, Abhimanyu's friend has also filed a complaint against the employee after four days. But the police couldn't arrest him as he is admitted to the hospital. They have booked him under section 354 of IPC. (With ANI Inputs) Most Read: Drashti Dhami-Neeraj's Love Stood Test Of Time; The Actress Was Linked With Popular Stars! Regulatory News: In accordance with the provisions of Article L. 225-209 et seq. of the French Commercial Code, the European Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 April 2014 and the General Regulation of the French Autorite des Marches Financiers (AMF), the present document aims to describe the objectives and characteristics of the repurchase by the Company of its own shares, that it could in theory implement, and proposed to the authorization of the Combined Shareholders' Meeting today, 28 May 2019, in its 12th resolution. The preliminary notice of meeting including the agenda and the draft resolutions has been published in the Bulletin des Annonces Legales Obligatoires (BALO) on 17 April 2019 and the notice of meeting in the BALO on 8 May 2019. Date of the General Meeting called to authorize the repurchase of IPSEN's own shares The authorization for the Company to repurchase its own shares is proposed to the Combined Shareholders' Meeting today, 28 May 2019, in its 12th resolution. Number of shares held directly or indirectly by the Company as of 30 April 2019 As of 30 April 2019, the Company holds 629,383 of its own shares representing 0.75% of the Company's share capital. Number of shares held identified by objective as of 30 April 2019 Stimulation of the share price through AMAFI liquidity agreement: 31,270 External growth transactions: 0 Hedging of stock purchase options and other employee share ownership system: 598,113 Hedging of securities giving right to shares: 0 Cancellation: 0 Characteristics of the share repurchase program proposed to the approval of the Combined Shareholders' Meeting Objectives : The objectives of the share repurchase program to be proposed at the Shareholders' Meeting today, 28 May 2019, are to: Stimulate the secondary market or ensure the liquidity of IPSEN shares through the activities of an investment services provider via a liquidity agreement compliant with the practices allowed by regulations, it being specified that in this framework, the number of shares used to calculate the above-mentioned limit corresponds to the number of shares purchased, decreased by the number of shares sold; Retain the purchased shares and subsequently deliver them within the context of an exchange or a payment related to possible external growth transactions; Ensure the hedging of stock option plans and/or free shares plans (or similar plans) in favor of Group employees and/or corporate officers as well as allocations of shares under a Company or Group savings plan (or a similar plan), as part of the sharing of the Company's profits and/or all other forms of allocation of shares to Group employees and/or corporate officers; Ensure the coverage of negotiable securities giving rights to the allocation of Company shares in accordance with the regulations in force; Possibly cancel acquired shares, subject to the authorization granted or to be granted by the Extraordinary Shareholders' Meeting. Characteristics: Purchases, sales, transfers or exchanges may be carried out by all means, including on the market or off- market or by multilateral negotiations systems or through systematic internalizers, or over-the-counter, including through the acquisition or sale of blocks of securities, and at any times as the Board shall see fit. The Company would reserve the right to use options or derivative instruments in accordance with applicable regulations. The transactions could not be carried out during a takeover bid period. Maximum amount of share capital that could be acquired, maximum number and characteristics of the corresponding shares, maximum repurchase price: The maximum percentage of shares that might be repurchased pursuant to the terms of the resolution proposed to the Shareholders' Meeting on 28 May 2019 is set, according to Article L. 225-209 of the French Commercial Code, at a possible repurchase of 10% of the total number of shares comprising the share capital (i.e., 8,380,876 shares as at today), specifying that the said limit is considered as of the date of the repurchases, adjusted, if applicable, to take into account the potential share capital increases or reduction that may occur during the period covered by the program. The number of shares taken into account for the calculation of the said limit corresponds to the number of shares repurchased, deducted by the number of shares sold during the program in connection with the liquidity purpose. Since the Company is not allowed to hold more than 10% of its share capital, and considering the 629,383 shares already held as of 30 April 2019 (representing 0.75% of the share capital), the maximum theoretical number of shares that may be repurchased would be 7,751,493, representing 9.25% of the share capital, unless transfers or cancellations of shares already held. The maximum purchase price proposed to the Shareholders' Meeting today, 30 May 2019, is set at 250 per share. Consequently, the theoretical maximum amount likely to be devoted to these repurchase would be set by the Shareholders' Meeting at 2,095,219,000 based on a number of 83,808,761 shares. Duration: In accordance with the resolution proposed to the Combined Shareholders' Meeting to be held today, 28 May 2019, any repurchase of shares may be implemented within a period of 18 months following the date of the Shareholders' Meeting, i.e. until 27 November 2020. This authorization will cancel and supersede the previous authorization granted by the Shareholders' Meeting on 30 May 2018 in its fourteenth ordinary resolution. The present publication is available on the Company's website (www.ipsen.com). About Ipsen Ipsen is a global specialty-driven biopharmaceutical group focused on innovation and Specialty Care. The group develops and commercializes innovative medicines in three key therapeutic areas Oncology, Neuroscience and Rare Diseases. Its commitment to Oncology is exemplified through its growing portfolio of key therapies for prostate cancer, neuroendocrine tumors, renal cell carcinoma and pancreatic cancer. Ipsen also has a wellestablished Consumer Healthcare business. With total sales over 2.2 billion in 2018, Ipsen sells more than 20 drugs in over 115 countries, with a direct commercial presence in more than 30 countries. Ipsen's R&D is focused on its innovative and differentiated technological platforms located in the heart of the leading biotechnological and life sciences hubs (Paris-Saclay, France; Oxford, UK; Cambridge, US). The Group has about 5,700 employees worldwide. Ipsen is listed in Paris (Euronext: IPN) and in the United States through a Sponsored Level I American Depositary Receipt program (ADR: IPSEY). For more information on Ipsen, visit www.ipsen.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190527005285/en/ Contacts: Media Christian Marcoux Senior Vice President, Global Communications +33 (0)1 58 33 67 94 christian.marcoux@ipsen.com Financial Community Eugenia Litz Vice President, Investor Relations +44 (0) 1753 627721 eugenia.litz@ipsen.com Fanny Allaire Director, Ipsen France Hub, Global Communications +33 (0)1 58 33 58 96 fanny.allaire@ipsen.com Myriam Koutchinsky Investor Relations Manager +33 (0)1 58 33 51 04 myriam.koutchinsky@ipsen.com 28 May 2019 AfriAg Global PLC ('AfriAg' or the 'Company') Apollon's Dr Stephen Barnhill - Keynote Speaker at Jamaica Cannabiz Conference AfriAg Global PLC, a company whose shares are admitted to trading on London's NEX Exchange, is pleased to announce that Dr Stephen Barnhill was a keynote speaker on the weekend at the Second Jamiaca Cannabiz Conference at the Faculty of Law, University of the West Indies, in Kingston Jamaica. Dr Barnill is the key person behind Apollon Formularies Ltd ("Apollon"), in which the Company announced a significant investment multi-staged transaction on 16 May 2019. About Dr. Stephen Barnhill (Proposed Chairman and Managing Director of the Company, subject to the Right of First Refusal being exercised as announced on 16 May 2019) Dr. Stephen D. Barnhill is a physician, Fellowship trained in Laboratory Medicine and Board Certified by the American Board of Bioanalysis. Dr. Barnhill is currently Chairman and CEO of Doc's Place International, Inc., the first Global Centre of Excellence for Medical Cannabis Therapy in Negril, Jamaica, as well as, Chairman and CEO Apollon Formularies, Inc., a U.S. affiliate of Apollon Formularies Jamaica, Limited to which he also serves as President and Board Member. Dr. Barnhill has been a founder, Chairman and CEO of both private and public companies. He was most recently founder, Chairman and CEO of a U.S. publicly traded international biotech company, which he took from inception to profitability. In addition, he was founder, Chairman and CEO of BCL laboratories, LLC with operations in south-eastern U.S. which was acquired by Corning-MetPath, now Quest Diagnostics, the largest clinical laboratory in the world. Dr. Barnhill served as a Medical Director for Quest Diagnostics for approximately 5 years after the acquisition. Dr. Barnhill was also founder, Chairman and CEO of National Medical Specialty Labs, which was acquired by Horus Therapeutics Inc., a New York based pharmaceutical company. Dr. Barnhill served as President of Horus Therapeutics for several years after the acquisition. Dr. Barnhill is a pioneer in artificial intelligence machine learning (pattern recognition algorithms) and an inventor on more than 40 patents including neural networks and support vector machines ("SVM") including the Hallmark SVM-RFE technique now cited by more than 10,000 publications. His patents were part of the intellectual property portfolio that won 1st Place out of 1600 publicly traded companies and was awarded the MICO award from MDB Capital for the most disruptive intellectual property portfolio. Dr. Barnhill's neural network patents were acquired by Johnson & Johnson. He is also an inventor on patents related to laboratory developed tests and tumour markers. His work includes expertise in the clinical laboratory involving clinical chemistry, haematology, microbiology, blood banking, toxicology and immunology, as well as diagnostic test development relating to cancers of the prostate, pancreas, breast and ovary, cytogenetics, flow cytometry, FISH and imaging in digital mammography, and funduscopic analysis of macular degeneration (AMD). He was part of the team that launched the first iPhone app using SVM for melanoma detection. Dr. Barnhill has negotiated and executed deals with many companies, including Pfizer, Corning-Metpath, Quest Diagnostics, Clarient (now GE Healthcare), LabCorp, NeoGenomics, Abbot, Bruker and others. He has published many peer reviewed papers with academics including those from MD Anderson Cancer Centre, Johns Hopkins University Medical Centre, Stanford University Medical Centre and others. He is a frequently invited speaker to medical conferences in the US and internationally. He has raised millions of dollars in start-up and ongoing financing for both private and public companies. Dr. Barnhill is or has been a Member or Fellow of the American College of Physician Inventors, the American College of International Physicians, the American Medical Association, the American College of Physician Executives, the American Association of Artificial Intelligence, the American College of Managed Care Medicine, the Association of Clinical Scientists, the American Society of Contemporary Medicine and Surgery, the American Society of Law, Medicine and Ethics, the Southern Medical Society, the American Federation for Clinical Research, the National Federation of Catholic Physicians and the Society of Cannabis Clinicians. Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This announcement includes "forward-looking statements" involving the Company, the other entities referenced in this announcement, and the respective subsidiaries, affiliates and associates of the Company and such other entities (collective, the "Involved Entities"), which include all statements other than statements of historical facts, including, without limitation, those regarding the financial position, business strategy, plans and objectives of management for future operations, and any statements preceded by, followed by or that include forward-looking terminology such as the words "targets", "believes", "estimates", "expects", "aims", "intends", "will", "can", "may", "anticipates", "would", "should", "could" or similar expressions or the negative thereof. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors beyond the control of the Involved Entities that could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Involved Entities to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding the present and future business strategies of the Involved Entities and the environment in which the Involved Entities will operate in the future. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this announcement. The Company, on behalf of itself and each of the Involved Entities, expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement to reflect any change in expectations of any Involved Entities with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based. As a result of these factors, readers are cautioned not to rely on any forward-looking statement. The directors of the Company accept responsibility for the contents of this announcement. -ENDS- For further information on AfriAg Global please visit the www.afriagglobal.com or please contact; AfriAg Global Plc: David Lenigas (Executive Chairman) +44 (0)20 7440 0640 Peterhouse Capital Limited +44 (0)20 7469 0930 Guy Miller/Fungai Ndoro LONDON, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Russell Reynolds Associates, a leading global leadership advisory and search firm, today announced that Agnes Greaves has rejoined the firm in the Digital and Consumer Practices. Her focus is on board and senior management appointments, working with industry leaders across markets and geographies to build, develop and assess top executive and non-executive teams. Based in London, Greaves has 20 years of search experience, with more than nine of those spent in a previous role at Russell Reynolds Associates. Greaves is a digital specialist with broad consumer industry experience. Her most recent position was Managing Director of the Up Group, where she helped build the company into the leading boutique digital search company in the UK. "We are delighted to welcome Agnes back to the team," said James Roome, UK Country Manager for Russell Reynolds Associates. "Agnes has a track record in building leadership teams and boards for companies navigating a fast-changing digital world. Her expertise in digital leadership will be invaluable. We are extremely pleased that she has chosen to return to a firm where international footprint and breadth of industry insight will allow her to deliver for her clients in a globally connected way." Before her previous role at Russell Reynolds Associates, Greaves was a General Manager for Bright Young Things, a consultancy focussing on recruiting commercial high-flyers in the consumer and technology sectors, which she co-ran and scaled. There, her experience included being embedded within leading digital companies to help drive their talent acquisition in the UK. She holds a BA in modern history from the University of Oxford and is fluent in English, Danish and German. For more information, please contact: Russell Reynolds Associates Lauren Taylor EMEA Marketing Manager Lauren.taylor@russellreynolds.com 020 7198 1885 About Russell Reynolds Associates Russell Reynolds Associates is a global leadership advisory and search firm. Our 425+ consultants in 46 offices work with public, private and nonprofit organizations across all industries and regions. We help our clients build teams of transformational leaders who can meet today's challenges and anticipate the digital, economic and political trends that are reshaping the global business environment. From helping boards with their structure, culture and effectiveness to identifying, assessing and defining the best leadership for organizations, our teams bring their decades of expertise to help clients address their most complex leadership issues. www.russellreynolds.com Photo -https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/890634/Russell_Reynolds_Associates_Agnes_Greaves.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/491408/Russell_Reynolds_Associates_Logo.jpg Copenhagen, May 28 2019 - Nilfisk, a leading global provider of professional cleaning solutions and services has appointed Pierre Mikaelsson as new Executive Vice President, global Head of Products & Services, and member of the Nilfisk Leadership Team. Mikaelsson brings more than 20 years of international R&D and product management experience among others from ABB, one of the world's leading technology companies globally. Hans Henrik Lund, CEO at Nilfisk comments: "We are very happy to welcome Pierre Mikaelsson to Nilfisk. Pierre has worked with R&D and product management in almost all parts of the world and successfully built up and run R&D departments for some of the world's leading technology companies. He has a solid experience, which I am certain will benefit the continued development of our strong product development organization at Nilfisk." Bio: From China to Copenhagen Pierre Mikaelsson comes from a position as Chief Technical Officer (CTO) for KUKA Robotics (https://www.kuka.com/) China - one of the world's leading specialists in robotics/automation. In this role, he has been responsible for technology strategy as well as building up R&D in a joint-venture with Midea (http://www.midea.com/global/) Prior to this, Mikaelsson was with ABB (https://new.abb.com/) for 15 years. ABB is a global technology leader within areas such as electrification, industrial automation, motion, and Robotics & Discrete Automation with a reported net income of 2.173 billion USD Within ABB, Pierre Mikaelsson has held various roles, most recently as CTO (Sweden) which included the global responsibility for technology and R&D in the business units Robotics Pierre Mikaelsson will relocate from China to Nilfisk headquarters in Copenhagen, starting June 1. He will take over the position as global head of Products and Services from Executive Vice President, Lars Gjdsbl. Following an impressive career with the company, where Lars Gjdsbl has played a key role in the transformation of Nilfisk, he has decided to pursue new challenges outside the company. "Lars Gjdsbl has had a significant impact on Nilfisk, both as global Head of Operations, during his tenure as acting CEO in 2017 and since then as Head of product development, where he has globalized our R&D organization and made strong progress within autonomy and digital services. In addition to that, Lars has been a vital part of the Nilfisk Leadership Team for the past 13 years. For that and much more we will miss Lars, but also respect his decision to pursue new challenges," says Hans Henrik Lund. About Nilfisk: Nilfisk is a leading global player within the professional cleaning industry. With more than 110 years of innovation experience, Nilfisk is dedicated to delivering reliable solutions and products of high quality that pave the way for a safer, more productive, and cleaner day for millions of companies and private homes around the world. Nilfisk has its own sales companies in more than 40 countries, and its products are sold in more than 100 countries. Read more at www.nilfisk.com. Contact:Nilfisk Media Relations - T: +45 2067 0833 - louise.klinge@nilfisk.com Attachment Infiniti Research, a market intelligence solutions provider, has recently announced the completion of their latest free downloadable article onhow target market segmentation helped a retail company to successfully drive profitability. The article provides detailed insights into the approach undertaken by the experts at Infiniti Research to boost profitability for a retail company. This downloadable resource also highlights how the target market segmentation analysis helps companies in the retail industry to reduce marketing spend and customer churn rate. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005271/en/ How target market segmentation helped a retail company drive profitability (Graphic: Business Wire) Pricing pressure, investment volatility, and customer experience management issues have increased challenges for the companies in the retail industry. Also, the ongoing transformations have changed the way major retail companies engage with their customers. Therefore, it becomes imperative for retail companies to reinvent their traditional marketing strategies and incorporate new approaches to target customer segments. With over 15 years of expertise in offering target market segmentation solution, Infiniti Research has helped many retail giants to effectively target the customer base, assess customers' changing behaviors, and gain a leading edge in the market. With rapid changes in market dynamics, target market segmentation analysis has become imperative for businesses to choose the right channel to reach the target customer base and attain a wider understanding of the company's target markets. Request a free brochure to gain more insights into our services portfolio. The business challenge: The client is a retail company, serving throughout the Midwestern United States. The client's unstructured approach to product marketing resulted in huge losses for the company, leading to wastage of 13% of their overall marketing budget. Also, the client was facing difficulties in competitively pricing their existing and new products. With Infiniti's target market segmentation analysis, they wanted to optimize their marketing spend and target the right customer segment. Moreover, they wanted to understand the right channel for their product promotions. According to the experts at Infiniti Research, "By understanding customer needs and evaluating competitors, businesses can identify gaps in their products and services offerings." Assessing changes in customer expectations and making constant changes in marketing initiatives is important for businesses to stay competitive in the retail market. Request a free proposalto know how our target market segmentation engagement will help your company to effectively manage your marketing strategies. The solution offeredThe experts at Infiniti Research followed a 4-phased approach to target market segmentation. The approach involved behavioral, demographic, psychological, and geographical segmentation process. With Infiniti's target market segmentation solution, the client was able to effectively segment customers with similar characteristics together. This helped them to personalize the advertising initiatives to better engage with their customers. The client was also able to enhance the customer experience and reduce churn rate by 11%. Infiniti's target market segmentation analysis helped the client to: Deliver an effective value proposition, which enticed customers to their brand Concentrate on online distribution channels, which was preferred more by retail customers in the Midwestern United States. Wondering how your business can benefit from our target market segmentation analysis? Request more information from our experts! Infiniti's target market segmentation analysis offered predictive insights on: Identifying the right marketing channel to engage with customers Achieving cost savings and fine-tuning advertising strategies Interested in achieving high growth for your business? Get in touch with us to know how our target market segmentation analysis can help. 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/20190528005271/en/ Contacts: Press Contact Infiniti Research Anirban Choudhury Marketing Manager US: +1 844 778 0600 UK: +44 203 893 3400 https://www.infinitiresearch.com/contact-us 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. SAN FRANCISCO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Rice Market is expected to grow at a significant CAGR in the upcoming period as the scope and its applications are rising enormously across the globe. Rice is an edible starchy cereal grain, a staple food consumed by half of the population across the globe. It is a seed of a grass species Oryza Glaberrima (African rice) or Oryza Sativa (Asian rice). The rice consists of 12 minerals and vitamins, which are necessary for daily growth of body and mind. Rising technological innovations to raise yields and expansion of cropped area are the factors playing a major role in the growth of overall market. However, adverse effects of pesticides on rice crops may restrain overall market growth in the years to come. Rice Market is segmented based on type, species, distribution channel, and countries. There are two main types of rice trade based on fragrant rice and non-fragrant rice that could be explored in the forecast period. Fragrant rice sector comprises Basmati and Jasmine. Whereas, Non-fragrant rice sector comprises Glutinous and Parboiled. Non-fragrant rice mainly parboiled and white rice are exported to African and Middle Eastern countries by India and Thailand. Brown, white, and other species of rice could be explored in the forecast period. There are several distribution channels available across the globe such as retail, local mills, supermarkets & hypermarkets, white rice stores, online stores, and others that could be explored in the forecast period. Top countries with a high demand for Rice Market are Malaysia, China, India, Senegal, Nigeria, Iraq, Philippines, Bangladesh, European Union, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Download PDF to know more details about "Rice Market" Report 2022. India accounts for the significant market share of Rice and is estimated to lead the overall market in the years to come. The reason behind the overall market growth could be high production of rice in the country. Also, India is a major exporter of Basmati rice across the globe. The key countries importing rice from India are Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and UAE. China also estimated to have a positive influence on the future growth. China is the second largest region with significant market share. It is the major importer of rice across the globe, as growing consumption of rice in the nation. Wherein, Pakistan and Thailand are the key exporters to China. The key players of Rice Market are KRBL, Riceland Foods Inc., Kohinoor Foods Ltd, V.A.P Foods Ltd., McCormick & Company, Gulf Rice Milling, Asia Golden Rice, REI AGRO Limited, Ake Rice Mill Co., Ltd, and Kohinoor. These market players are concentrating on inorganic growth to sustain themselves amidst fierce competition. The industry report package Global Rice Market to 2022 - Market Size, Development, Top 10 Countries, and Forecasts offers the most up-to-date market data on the actual market situation, and future outlook for rice in the world and in the top 10 global countries. Along with a global rice market report the package includes country reports from the following countries: China, India, Iran, Italy, Japan, Nigeria, South Korea, United Kingdom, United States, Vietnam The reports include historic market data from 2011 to 2017 and forecasts until 2022 which makes the reports an invaluable resource for industry executives, marketing, sales and product managers, analysts, and other people looking for key industry data in readily accessible and clearly presented tables and graphs. Access 10 page research report with TOC on "Global Rice Market" available with Radiant Insights, Inc. @: https://www.radiantinsights.com/research/global-rice-market-to-2022 Market Segmentation: The product segments discussed in the data reports include: Broken rice Husked brown rice Semi-milled/wholly milled rice The latest market data for this research include: Overall rice market size, 2011-2022 Rice market size by product segment, 2011-2022 Growth rates of the overall rice market and different product segments, 2011-2022 Shares of different product segments of the overall rice market, 2011, 2017 and 2022 The reports help answering the following questions: What is the current size of the rice market in the world and in the top 10 global countries? How is the rice market divided into different product segments? How are the overall market and different product segments growing? How is the market predicted to develop in the future? What is the market potential compared to other countries? Among the key reasons to purchase include the following: Gain an outlook of the historic development, current market situation, and future outlook of the rice market in the world and in the top 10 global countries to 2022 Track industry development and identify market opportunities Plan and develop marketing, market-entry, market expansion, and other business strategies by identifying the key market opportunities and prospects Save time and money with the readily accessible key market data included in the report. The market data is clearly presented and can be easily incorporated into presentations, internal reports, etc. Browse reports of similar category available with Radiant Insights, Inc.: Cold-pressed Juice Market Multiple Specialty Oils Market Sacha Inchi Market Vital Wheat Gluten Market About Radiant Insights, Inc.: At Radiant Insights, we work with the aim to reach the highest levels of customer satisfaction. Our representatives strive to understand diverse client requirements and cater to the same with the most innovative and functional solutions. Contact: Michelle Thoras. Corporate Sales Specialist Radiant Insights, Inc. Phone: +1-415-349-0054 Toll Free: 1-888-928-9744 Email: sales@radiantinsights.com Web: https://www.radiantinsights.com Company Strengthens Market Positioning and Strategic Growth Potential Behind Single Powerful Brand CHICAGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Global medical technology company Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: HRC), today announced a global rebrand as Hillrom with an updated brand promise of Advancing Connected Care. "With our rapid advancements in digital health and connected care, we are extending our physical healthcare environment solutions to the digital space," said President and CEO John Groetelaars. "We are excited to launch our new brand, which reaffirms our identity and underscores our commitment to the continued transformation of our business." The modernized Hillrom visual brand - with the "H" and "r" in the logo depicting the ones and zeros that underpin the digital world - reflects the company's strong and growing capabilities in connected devices, advanced analytics and delivery of actionable insights at the point of care. The brand transition propels Hillrom forward from its history in hospital beds and medical device development to one that advances connected care across the healthcare continuum. Recent successes highlight this transition: Hillrom's recently announced global collaboration with Microsoft. The combined offerings, using Microsoft Azure, are intended to dynamically analyze real-time sensing data from medical devices and historical medical record information, and communicate potential patient risk and hospital protocol actions directly to caregivers at the point of care. The U.S. Department of Defense's (DoD) grant of Conditional Authority to Operate (ATO-C) to the company's Welch Allyn Connex monitoring systems, Connex vital signs connectivity solutions, ELI 380 resting ECG (electrocardiograph) device and NaviCare Nurse Call. The DoD authorization allows these Hillrom vital signs monitoring systems, resting ECG device and care communications platform to be connected to DoD healthcare system networks in the U.S. and internationally. Hillrom's acquisition of Voalte, a pioneer and leader in real-time, mobile healthcare communications, to accelerate Hillrom's leadership in care communications and advance the company's digital and mobile communications platform and capabilities. The companies' combination has already led to substantial customer wins. The new Hillrom brand brings together the company's acquisitions and updated focus areas, which help caregivers to: Accelerate patient recovery Simplify clinical communication and collaboration Enable earlier diagnosis and treatment Optimize surgical efficiency and safety Shift care closer to home Beyond the company's visual brand update, Hillrom is uniting its acquired company brands. The Welch Allyn brand will continue as a flagship product family for the company's patient monitoring and diagnostic solutions. The Voalte brand, which Hillrom acquired in April, will continue as a cornerstone of the company's expanded Care Communications product line. All other brands will be transitioning over time to the Hillrom brand. "Our customers know us in a number of different ways, and today we bring them together under a powerful global Hillrom brand," said Groetelaars. "Our 10,000 employees around the world can proudly say they work for Hillrom, a single brand with a single mission: every day, around the world, we enhance outcomes for patients and their caregivers." About Hillrom Hillrom is a global medical technology leader whose 10,000 employees have a single purpose: enhancing outcomes for patients and their caregivers by advancing connected care. Around the world, our innovations touch over 7 million patients each day. They help enable earlier diagnosis and treatment, optimize surgical efficiency and accelerate patient recovery while simplifying clinical communication and shifting care closer to home. We make these outcomes possible through connected smart beds, patient lifts, patient assessment and monitoring technologies, caregiver collaboration tools, respiratory care devices, advanced operating room equipment and more, delivering actionable, real-time insights at the point of care. Learn more at hillrom.com. CONTACT INFORMATION Investor Relations Contact: Mary Kay Ladone, Senior Vice President, Corporate Development, Strategy and Investor Relations Phone: 312-819-9387 Email: marykay.ladone@hillrom.com Media Contact: Howard Karesh, Vice President, Corporate Communications Phone: 312-819-7268 Email: howard.karesh@hillrom.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/371037/HILL_ROM_HOLDINGS_INC_LOGO.jpg South Africa: Suspects in foreign students' robbery arrested National Police Commissioner General Khehla Sitole has welcomed and applauded the arrest of three suspects in connection with the robbery of international students in Mamelodi earlier this month. Sitole praised the team under the leadership of the Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela, for the sterling work they have done on this case. The first suspect was arrested in Pienaarspoort informal settlement in Mamelodi East within days after the robbery. Sitole commended the polices persistence in identifying and arresting another two suspects on 24 May in Limpopo and in Mpumalanga on 25 May respectively. "The team's dedication and perseverance in this case must be commended. "The commitment displayed by our members is a reflection of what the South African Police Service as a whole strives for," Sitole said. While all three suspects are appearing before a magistrate in the Pretoria Court on charges of armed robbery, attempted murder and assault, the search for the other suspects still continues. On 13 May 2019, a group of international students and two Professors arrived at Viva Foundation School in Mamelodi East on an outreach programme. A group of approximately five armed men accosted the students and their professors and robbed them of personal belongings including laptops, cell phones, cameras, passports, plane tickets, bags and US Dollars. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Photo: Contributed A job seeker who unwittingly sent her resume and cover letter to scammers by applying for a job in Kelowna through Indeed.ca warns others to use caution when using the website. "I found the job listing on Indeed that looked the same as any other, so I applied. A couple of days later I received an email from somebody saying they wanted me to follow this link to answer some questions," our source, who wanted to remain anonymous, said. "The email said they were excited to get to know me, and the next step is to fill out this survey. I started to fill it out and right away, I thought, 'they're asking for some personal information, and it doesn't make sense,' so at that point I felt there was something wrong." Because scammers often use spoofed email addresses when setting up recruiter accounts on Indeed, they can capture the applications and show job seekers that they are responding through the Indeed portal, adding credibility to their approaches. "What made it look legitimate is the scammer had my actual resume and cover letter that I had sent applying for this job. I thought, 'they had this, so it must be the company I applied with.' I called the company and I asked them about it and they said that there was no such position, that they didn't post the ad, and that they never advertise on Indeed." The job seeker immediately filed a complaint with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre with the email address of the scammer, but she has yet to hear back. "I felt violated. I was concerned... who's got my application? If anybody else is in this situation, and the more people who complain, the more likely it is that the government will get involved and force Indeed to do due diligence," the job seeker said. The owner of Wytek Direct in Kelowna, the company name used in the phishing attempt, said he was stunned to receive calls from prospective employees for a job he never actually posted on Indeed.ca. "I was trying to get that listing removed. I don't even know how it got there. I had two or three people call. I was shocked when I saw that," said Mark Shier, owner of Wytek Direct. "They took it down the same day." Scammers have become more and more sophisticated in their efforts to steal identities and data, said Karla Davis, manager of communications and public relations for the Better Business Bureau of Mainland B.C. "The truth is it's gotten a little complicated because they have gotten really crafty about setting up elaborate emails and websites," Davis said. "They managed to trick Indeed to set up legitimate employer recruitment profiles and that's how they're getting access to the information that job seekers are putting out." Davis said job seekers need to become investigators when using online resources to apply for jobs. "The first thing you have to do is research the company that you are interested in getting a job with," Davis said. "Search them out on social media and see if the have an internet footprint. If you can't find them and they're not on LinkedIn, that's a red flag." Davis also suggested a follow up phone call is a good bet to confirming the legitimacy of a job posting. "Call the location they see being advertised," Davis said. "I would urge job seekers to be careful when you are putting up your information, especially when you leave it on sites like that. If you've found a job, take it down." Another tip is to look closely at the actual email address used in the reply. If it doesn't end with @ and the name of the business, that's a red flag. "Hover over the email address itself because a lot of the time something will come up to indicate that this goes to some other address," Davis said. "If you see someone messaging you claiming that they're representing the human resources department and they have a Gmail or a Hotmail account, that's also a red flag. Most legitimate reps have the name of the company in the email address," Davis said. Davis said Indeed has been very diligent in promptly removing fraudulent recruiter profiles that BBB has brought to their attention. "The relocation of the US Embassy to Jerusalem places the United States on the right side of historical truth," - U.S. Ambassador David Friedman "There has never been a better friend of Israel here in Jerusalem than David Friedman, and no better friend of Israel in the White House than Donald J Trump," - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "Anti-Zionism is the latter-day anti-Semitism. This is what the Friends of Zion Museum is for and together with our 60 million supporters worldwide we will fight anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism in every corner of the world," - Dr. Mike Evans JERUSALEM, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Friends of Zion Museum and the United States Embassy marked the anniversary of the One-Year Anniversary of the US Embassy in Jerusalem with a gala event at the David Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem. The event was attended by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman, Chief Rabbi of Israel David Lau, and Dr. Mike Evans, a member of President Trump's Evangelical Advisory Committee and founder of the Friends of Zion Museum. Other participants at the event were: Archil Kekelia, Ambassador of Georgia to Israel, Mario Bucaro, Ambassador of Guatemala to Israel, Minister of Science Ofir Akunis, Amb. Michael Oren, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Office, MK Nir Barkat, former Mayor of Jerusalem, Avi Dichter, Chairman of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, MK Moshe Arbel, on behalf of the Shas Party, former MK Yehuda Glick, Likud MKs Yoav Galant, Sharren Haskel, Miki Zohar, Amir Ohana, MK Idit Sliman on behalf of The Jewish Home Party, and Oded Revivi, Head of Efrat Regional Council. May 14th is the historic date on which President Donald Trump announced the move of the US Embassy to the capital of Israel, Jerusalem. In addition to the US recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, they also recently declared US recognition of the Golan Heights as an undisputed and inseparable part of Israel. The event was hosted by the Friends of Zion Museum, which works to strengthen Israel's ties with other countries and drawing closer its friends around the world. As part of its activity in the international arena, it has fought antisemitism and the BDS movement. The community of supporters of the Friends of Zion Museum numbers about 60 million people in social media. Entitled "Annual Night of Heroes," the event opened with Sara Netanyahu, the prime minister's wife, handing an award to Guatemala's First Lady Patricia Marroquin de Morales in recognition of the Central American country's relocation of its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in May 2018. US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman said in his speech: "President Trump has on his actions fulfilled what he has known and has made abundantly clear: Jerusalem has always been, and will always be, the capital of the State of Israel. The relocation of the US embassy places the United States on the right side of historical truth. This has been a cornerstone of its policy." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: "Israel is stronger than ever and is continually building its strength. However the stronger it gets, so do the challenges mount." He added, "there has never been a better friend of Israel here in Jerusalem than David Friedman, and no better friend of Israel in the White House than Donald J Trump." Dr. Mike Evans, member of President Trump's Advisory Committee and founder of the Friends of Zion Museum in Jerusalem: "Anti-Zionism is the latter-day anti-Semitism. This is what the Friends of Zion Museum is for and together with our 60 million supporters worldwide we will fight anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism in every corner of the globe." He added that, "thanks to President Trump, whose commitment to Israel is rock-solid, and thanks to Prime Minister Netanyahu, the two countries have achieved a close, binding relationship the likes of which have never before existed." Following the declaration of the move of the Ambassador's residence to Jerusalem, Dr. Evans presented a specially hand-crafted mezuzah to Ambassador David Friedman, with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Ambassador Friedman and Chief Rabbi David signing the last letters in the mezuzah's prayer scroll. As part of the Friends of Zion Museum, the prestigious Israel Friend of Zion Award is bestowed. The first to be honored was US President George W. Bush, followed by other friends around the world, such as Monaco's Prince Albert II and Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev, Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales, and recently President of Brazil Jair Bolsonaro, thanks to their outstanding support for the State of Israel and the Jewish people. The Head of the International Board of Trustees of the Friends of Zion Museum was the ninth President of the State of Israel, Shimon Peres of blessed memory. Currently serving on the Board of Trustees are IDF Chief of Staff (res.) Lieutenant General Dan Halutz, Major General (res.) Yossi Peled and others. About the Friends of Zion Museum The Friends of Zion Museum is a unique interactive museum in Israel, which opened three years ago in the heart of Jerusalem. The Museum presents a fascinating journey back in time, to the story of the friends of Israel throughout their generations and to the bond that has grown over the years between different peoples and Jews around the world. The Museum includes exhibitions and exhibits in the most advanced technologies of its kind in the world, developed especially for it (all its construction and work are made in Israel). The Museum features dozens of changing exhibits, each of which has technological characteristics such as: touch screens, audiovisual elements, and light technologies that are guided by visitors' movements. Friends of Zion Museum, 20 Yosef Rivlin Street, Jerusalem. A reservation is recommended for museum visits. Website: www.fozmuseum.com, email: reservations@fozhc.com, or phone: +972-2-532-9400 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/893114/Friends_of_Zion_Museum.jpg New Management Structure Reflects Continuing Global Growth, Focus on Efficiencies and Client Experience CHICAGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Chicago-based R.J. O'Brien & Associates (RJO), the oldest and largest independent futures brokerage and clearing firm in the United States, today announced several promotions, giving new responsibilities to key executives as a reflection of the firm's continuing global growth. The new roles further the firm's strategic priorities of achieving world-class sales and operational excellence, as well as enhancing client experience. The promotions include: Daniel Staniford to Chief Sales Officer; Terry Gilhooly to Chief Operating Officer, North America; and Karen Northup to Global Solutions Officer. RJO Chairman and CEO Gerald Corcoran said: "Dan has done a terrific job of growing our global institutional broker footprint, recruiting some very strong professionals to the firm. He places a strong emphasis on the culture here - which is unique and compelling - as a critical part of our value proposition, and he's well positioned to spearhead all of our sales efforts globally, ensuring a cohesive strategy across regions." He continued: "As an important partner to the front office, our Operations teams provide critical platforms, processes and infrastructure. Terry - who excelled in our Commercial Grains division and has extensive operations experience - will work closely with Dan and other firm leaders to maximize efficiencies and enhance the experience of our clients. And Karen, who has successfully led our operational functions for many years, will assume responsibility for our newly created Global Solutions Group, ensuring that as we continue our global expansion, we dedicate resources to operational excellence in the design, implementation and management of all solutions firm-wide." Staniford Staniford joined RJO in 2016 as Executive Director, in charge of the firm's institutional business development in New York and London. In his new expanded role, he will also oversee RJO's Marketing organization, charged with ensuring the external brand and presence is aligned with sales strategies. Staniford will continue to report to Corcoran. Staniford has more than 22 years of experience in sales and management at some of the world's leading banks and financial services institutions. Prior to joining RJO, he spent 13 years at Citigroup Global Markets, serving most recently as Managing Director, Rates Sales. He spent the first seven years of his career at Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., where he became a Vice President in the Commodities Lending Department. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, and an MBA in Finance from Columbia University in New York. Gilhooly In his new role, Gilhooly will oversee the North American Operations groups, along with RJO's Client Service, Market Insights and Facilities teams, providing clients with a more integrated service and support experience. He now reports to Corcoran. Gilhooly has served since 2016 as Senior Director in the Commercial Agricultural division, running the Operations functions for the division, including the support of its Asian activities. He started his career at RJO in 1991 as a trading floor runner, remaining at the firm for nine years and ultimately managing the firm's trading desks on the agricultural trading floor at the Chicago Board of Trade. In 2000, he joined Merrill Lynch to run the futures division's U.S. Client Services, taking on additional operations responsibilities until 2011, when he left as Director and Head of Global Client Services and Global Documentation. He joined State Street to help launch its planned futures commission merchant, and in 2014 joined the Royal Bank of Scotland, leading operations for listed derivatives in the Americas. Gilhooly earned a Bachelor of Science degree and MBA from Indiana University Northwest in Gary. Northup Northup's new Global Solutions Group will identify and implement business solutions across RJO functions and locations, including in internal and external applications for product management; project analysis and delivery; business analytics, and automation and process improvement. She continues to report to Jim Gabriele, Senior Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer for RJO's holding company. Since 2007, Northup has served as RJO's Chief Operating Officer, managing the firm's Trading and Clearing Operations. Prior to joining RJO in 2004, Northup was in the Corporate Strategy and Development Group at Citadel Investment Group. Previously, she served as a Principal in the Financial Institutions Group at management consulting firm A.T. Kearney, where she spent five years. Earlier in her career, she led IT development of Morgan Stanley's global custody business. A resident of Chicago, Northup earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine and an MBA from the University of Chicago. About R.J. O'Brien & Associates Founded in 1914, R.J. O'Brien & Associates is the largest independent futures brokerage and clearing firm in the United States, serving more than 80,000 institutional, commercial and individual clients globally, in addition to a network of approximately 400 introducing brokers (IBs). RJO services the industry's most expansive global network of IBs, a vast array of middle market firms and many of the world's largest financial, industrial and agricultural institutions. The firm offers state-of-the-art electronic trading and 24-hour trade execution on every major futures exchange worldwide. RJO has received the FOW International Award for "Non-Bank FCM of the Year" for the past three years. Wealth and Finance International Magazine named the company's private client division, RJO Futures, "2018's Most Trusted Financial Brokerage Firm." At its 2019 U.S. Services Awards, CTA Intelligence named RJO the "Best Independent FCM" - the seventh honor bestowed by the magazine on RJO and its UK affiliate. R.J. O'Brien was also the top-ranked broker in Oil Options and Structured Products in Europe in the 2019 Energy Risk Commodities Rankings. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/363183/r_j__obrien___associates_logo.jpg TSX: JAG TORONTO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Jaguar Mining Inc. ("Jaguar" or the "Company") (TSX: JAG) is pleased to report the Company has completed the filings of independent National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") "Technical Reports on the Turmalina and Pilar Gold Mines, respectively, (the "Technical Report"). The Technical Report supports the Company's updated Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources announced in a news release dated March 1, 2019. All Company Technical Reports are available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com). Turmalina Gold Mine Update Management continues to advance a turnaround plan expected to return gold production to historical rates of approximately 15,000 ounces quarterly by the end of 2020. Importantly, Turmalina maintains a well-defined base of mineral reserves and mineral resources to support a sustainable, increasing gold grade and production profile. The Company continues to focus on operational execution and provided the following operational update on recent and upcoming critical milestones in process: Total Mineral Reserve gold ounces increased 95% as at December 31, 2018 to 1.4 Mt at 5.05 g/t containing 228 koz, representing over four years of mine life based on a 50,000-ounce annual production rate. to 1.4 Mt at 5.05 g/t containing 228 koz, representing over four years of mine life based on a 50,000-ounce annual production rate. Following exploration success at Orebody C-Central, the Company has prioritized and initiated development in this area to provide a third mining area and additional flexibility. Orebody C-Central is expected to contribute development ore in the second half of 2019 with first stoping ore expected in Q4 2019. Q4 2019. Orebody B Measured Mineral Resources totaled 353 kt at 3.34 g/t containing 38,000 ounces and Indicated Mineral Resources totaled 192 kt at 4.26 g/t containing 26,000 ounces at December 31, 2018 . Orebody B, which is outside the current mine plan and does not have Proven and Probable Reserves, has the potential to provide increased mine flexibility and production capability in 2019. A higher-grade pay shoot is currently being re-evaluated as a potential forth mining area. Orebody B has existing ventilation infrastructure and can be accessed from Orebody A. (Refer to the Press Release dated March 1, 2019 for more information on Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources.) . Orebody B, which is outside the current mine plan and does not have Proven and Probable Reserves, has the potential to provide increased mine flexibility and production capability in 2019. A higher-grade pay shoot is currently being re-evaluated as a potential forth mining area. Orebody B has existing ventilation infrastructure and can be accessed from Orebody A. In Q1 2019, mine working hours increased to a 4 shift/day schedule. Hiring and training efforts ramped up during Q2 2019 to support increased development and production. The new management team is implementing work routines to improve employee communication, shift effectiveness, mine planning, adherence to plan and safety culture. Q2 2019 equipment purchases to support increased planned production: (1) development jumbo, (1) haul truck, (2) basket-lift, auxiliary vehicles, and (1) personnel -carrier to facilitate the hot shift changes. Expected ore production during Q2 and Q3 will be from remaining stopes in Orebody A and from one production panel in orebody C-SE. Increased development combined with two new production mining panels in Q4 2019, followed by one new panel in Q1 2020, is expected to support planned production ramp up. Total development rates continued to improve to over 400 meters/month from 300 meters/month prior. With increasing shift schedules, extra equipment, added employees, and added development faces, development rates are expected to increase to over 550 meters/month in the second half of 2019. The contractor developing the Orebody A ramp area has also changed shift schedule and added equipment and people. The contractor will be increasing from 150 to +200 meters/month while Jaguar crews increase from 250 to +350 meters/month. Mine designs and systematic sequencing developed for the new mining panels will prevent geotechnical delays, production delays, and re-work. Dilution and ore loss will be significantly improved when mining includes drill-and-blast quality control improvements and use of cemented paste fill in wide zones of the orebody. Mine infrastructure improvements are in progress including: A ventilation system to the ramp bottom has been upgraded and a ventilation raise is expected to be completed in Q2 2019; Underground pumping stations are planned for Q2 and Q3 2019; Electrical substation has been installed in the deepest zone in the mine (A-12); Paste fill distribution system will be extended to Orebody A level 12 in Q3 2019; A new mine infrastructure coordinator has been added combined with new infrastructure crews which has resulted in a significant reduction in production delays. Pilar Gold Mine Update Management continues to make progress on operational execution and key initiatives to support a sustainable production profile including the following: Exploration success at Pilar increased Mineral Reserve contained gold ounces by 69% as at December 31, 2018 , including Proven Mineral Reserves of 1.2 Mt at 3.79 g/t containing 143,000 ounces, and Probable Mineral Reserves of 0.6 Mt at 3.47 g/t containing 68,000 ounces. This represents more than four years of mine life at 50,000-ounce annual production. (Refer to the Press Release dated March 1, 2019 for more information on Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources.) , including Proven Mineral Reserves of 1.2 Mt at 3.79 g/t containing 143,000 ounces, and Probable Mineral Reserves of 0.6 Mt at 3.47 g/t containing 68,000 ounces. This represents more than four years of mine life at 50,000-ounce annual production. Development and exploration in 2019 include the BA, Torre, and SW orebodies and potential open pit sources, which are being targeted to increase mine flexibility and production capability. Operational issues experienced in early 2019, with excess dilution in a large stope, and fan drill production have been resolved. A new fan drill was delivered in February 2019 and drilled inventory has recovered to target levels. and drilled inventory has recovered to target levels. An underground maintenance shop will be completed in Q2 2019 to ensure improved equipment availability with faster maintenance response time and avoid tramming slow moving equipment to surface. Caete metallurgical recovery has returned to 88% following the replacement of leach agitators in February 2019 combined with additional operational improvements. CIP agitators are planned to be replaced in early H2 2019 to further improve recovery levels. combined with additional operational improvements. CIP agitators are planned to be replaced in early H2 2019 to further improve recovery levels. Production remains stable and with mine working hours increased following a 4 shift/day schedule that started in May 2019 . Additional employees are being hired and trained which are expected to add work hours and drive increased ore production starting in Q3 2019. Corporate Update The Board of Directors (the "Board") initiated a strategic review process to explore opportunities and alternatives to enhance shareholder value. The Board has appointed Canaccord Genuity Corp. as its exclusive financial advisor in conjunction with its strategic review. The review will consider various alternatives for the Company, including reviewing merger opportunities, potential partnerships, joint venture agreements and any other options with the objective of maximizing value for the Company's shareholders. The Company has also retained an external executive recruitment firm to search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer. The hiring process is in an advance stage and the Company expects to finalize the position in Q2 2019. Qualified Persons The scientific and technical information contained in the Turmalina and Pilar Gold Mines' Technical Reports has been reviewed and approved (i) in respect of the estimated Mineral Reserves and the Life of Mine Plan (LOM) by Jeff Sepp, P.Eng., of Roscoe Postle Associates Inc. ("RPA"), and (ii) in respect of the estimated Mineral Resources by Reno Pressacco, P.Geo., of RPA. RPA is an independent mining consultant and Mr. Sepp and Mr. Pressacco are each Qualified Persons within the definition of NI 43-101. Scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Jonathan Victor Hill, BSc (Hons) (Economic Geology - UCT), FAUSIMM, Senior Expert Advisor Geology and Exploration to the Jaguar Mining Management Committee, who is also an employee of Jaguar Mining Inc., and is a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). The Iron Quadrangle The Iron Quadrangle has been an area of mineral exploration dating back to the 16th century. The discovery in 1699-1701 of gold contaminated with iron and platinum-group metals in the southeastern corner of the Iron Quadrangle gave rise to the name of the town Ouro Preto (Black Gold). The Iron Quadrangle contains world-class multi-million-ounce gold deposits such as Morro Velho, Cuiaba, and Sao Bento. Jaguar holds the second largest gold land position in the Iron Quadrangle with just over 25,000 hectares. About Jaguar Mining Inc. Jaguar Mining Inc. is a Canadian-listed junior gold mining, development, and exploration company operating in Brazil with three gold mining complexes and a large land package with significant upside exploration potential from mineral claims covering an area of approximately 64,000 hectares. The Company's principal operating assets are located in the Iron Quadrangle, a prolific greenstone belt in the state of Minas Gerais and include the Turmalina Gold Mine Complex and Caete Mining Complex (Pilar and Roca Grande Mines, and Caete Plant). The Company also owns the Paciencia Gold Mine Complex, which has been on care and maintenance since 2012 and the Roca Grande Mine which has been on care and maintenance since April 2018. Additional information is available on the Company's website at www.jaguarmining.com. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. All of the forward-looking information made in this news release is qualified by the cautionary statements below and those made in our other filings with the securities regulators in Canada. Forward-looking information contained in forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "are expected," "is forecast," "is targeted," "approximately," "plans," "anticipates," "projects," "anticipates," "continue," "estimate," "believe" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may," "could," "would," "might," or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, may be considered to be or include forward-looking information. This news release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, expected sales, production statistics, ore grades, tonnes milled, recovery rates, cash operating costs, definition/delineation drilling, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, capital expenditures, costs and timing of the development of projects and new deposits, success of exploration, development and mining activities, currency fluctuations, capital requirements, project studies, mine life extensions, restarting suspended or disrupted operations, continuous improvement initiatives, and resolution of pending litigation. The Company has made numerous assumptions with respect to forward-looking information contained herein, including, among other things, assumptions about the estimated timeline for the development of its mineral properties; the supply and demand for, and the level and volatility of the price of, gold; the accuracy of reserve and resource estimates and the assumptions on which the reserve and resource estimates are based; the receipt of necessary permits; market competition; ongoing relations with employees and impacted communities; political and legal developments in any jurisdiction in which the Company operates being consistent with its current expectations including, without limitation, the impact of any potential power rationing, tailings facility regulation, exploration and mine operating licenses and permits being obtained an renewed and/or there being adverse amendments to mining or other laws in Brazil and any changes to general business and economic conditions. Forward-looking information involves a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including among others: the risk of Jaguar not meeting the forecast plans regarding its operations and financial performance; uncertainties with respect to the price of gold, labour disruptions, mechanical failures, increase in costs, environmental compliance and change in environmental legislation and regulation, weather delays and increased costs or production delays due to natural disasters, power disruptions, procurement and delivery of parts and supplies to the operations; uncertainties inherent to capital markets in general (including the sometimes volatile valuation of securities and an uncertain ability to raise new capital) and other risks inherent to the gold exploration, development and production industry, which, if incorrect, may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company and described herein. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of gold exploration, development, mining and production, including environmental hazards, tailings dam failures, industrial accidents and workplace safety problems, unusual or unexpected geological formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding, chemical spills, procurement fraud and gold bullion thefts and losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance, or the inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks). Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. For additional information with respect to these and other factors and assumptions underlying the forward-looking information made in this news release, see the Company's most recent Annual Information Form and Management's Discussion and Analysis, as well as other public disclosure documents that can be accessed under the issuer profile of "Jaguar Mining Inc." on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking information set forth herein reflects the Company's reasonable expectations as at the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. For further information: Ben Guenther, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Jaguar Mining Inc., bguenther@jaguarmining.com, 416-847-1854; Hashim Ahmed, Chief Financial Officer, Jaguar Mining Inc., hashim.ahmed@jaguarmining.com, 416-847-1854 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / Searchlight Resources Inc.("Searchlight" or the "Company") (TSX-V: SCLT) announces that it has signed a letter of intent with Emgold Mining Corporation, a company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "EMR", ("Emgold") whereby Searchlight has granted to Emgold the option to acquire a 100% interest in the New York Canyon Property, NV (the "Property"), subject to underlying royalties. Under the proposed terms, Searchlight will transfer all its interest in and to the New York Canyon Property to Emgold and, in consideration of which, Emgold will pay Searchlight CAD $350,000 and issue CAD $500,000 worth of common shares of Emgold on closing of the Definitive Agreement. "The New York Canyon option brings immediate value to our shareholders for a non-core asset and allows Searchlight to focus its exploration activities on Saskatchewan, including the reopening the past producing Rio Gold Mine near Flin Flon and exploration to discover the next major VMS deposit in the Flin Flon - Snow Lake Greenstone Belt" stated Stephen Wallace, CEO of Searchlight. Terms of the New York Canyon Transaction Emgold has agreed to purchase a 100 percent interest in the 21-patented and 60-unpatented mining claims from Searchlight (the "Transaction") under the following terms: 1. C$10,000 on signing the LOI; 2. C$40,000 on closing of the Transaction; 3. C$500,000 in common shares of the capital of Emgold at the date of closing, with the share price based on the 30-day volume weighted average price of Emgold's share immediately prior to the announcement of the Transaction; 4. C$100,000 within 6 months of the date of closing; 5. C$100,000 within 12 months of the date of closing; and 6. C$100,000 within 18 months of the date of closing. The Transaction is subject, amongst other conditions, to completion of a definitive agreement and regulatory approval by the TSX Venture Exchange. On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Stephen Wallace" SEARCHLIGHT RESOURCES INC. Stephen Wallace P.Geo, President, CEO and Director Contact: Searchlight Resources Inc. Investor Relations (604) 331-9326 info@searchlightresources.com Forward-Looking Statements Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the Company's limited operating history and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information. 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. SOURCE: Searchlight Resources Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/546730/Searchlight-Resources-Signs-Letter-of-Intent-to-Option-100-Interest-in-New-York-Canyon-Property-to-Emgold-Mining-Corp PARIS, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- - New global brand campaign celebrates Sofitel's French roots, offering a modern spin on design, gastronomy, arts & culture, well-being and more As the first international luxury hotel brand to originate from France, Sofitel Hotels & Resorts is a renowned global ambassador of French style and art de vivre. In celebration of the brand's birthplace and heritage, Sofitel is launching a new global brand campaign that reaches deeper into its French roots. Live The French Way, the campaign's brand promise, pays homage to Sofitel's French origin, demonstrates the eternal allure of French style, and reinforces the brand's time-honored position as an ambassador of French art de vivre around the world. "The goal of Live the French Way is to reinforce Sofitel's position in the luxury segment and leverage its inherent strengths, while also differentiating the brand from its competitors and injecting a sense of modernity into the brand. We think guests will be delighted to experience authentic French touches through an immersive and luxurious journey into Sofitel's world, wherever they may travel," said Steven Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer, Accor. The brand campaign, which will introduce new programming and guest experiences throughout the year, was co-created with BETC ETOILE ROUGE, a full-service Paris-based agency offering strategic, creative, and production expertise for luxury, fashion, beauty and hospitality brands. The campaign integrates the finest of French passions, with exclusive and inspired collaborations in film, music and food. Celebrated photographer and director Charlotte Wales was engaged to design a film where worldly voyageurs dive into chic and whimsical experiences. Shot on location in France and China, the campaign invites Sofitel guests to experience the French way of living in an authentic and indulgent way. Charlotte's ethereal images make use of soft lighting and subtle composition, pushing her subjects to the forefront in the most sophisticated manner. The voice of the Live the French Way campaign is none other than France's most au courant pop icon, Clara Luciani. Influenced as much by Francoise Hardy as by Nico or Patti Smith, Clara is a highly creative, prolific and endearing artist, and has written some of the most illuminating songs in recent French music. Clara's original track, "En Voyage" was written and recorded exclusively for Sofitel. One of the most extraordinary elements of Live the French Way, will be the introduction of Les Diners Extraordinaires, reinforcing Sofitel's French culinary heritage with a supremely luxurious touch. Celebrity Chef Yannick Alleno will create once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences, presenting the best of modern French cuisine in spectacular, culturally rich settings all over the world. Keeping with the brand's free-spirited persona, guests will not discover the exact dinner location until they arrive, providing a spontaneous, joyful and elegant experience of arts de la table. The campaign will also come to life on social networks through the hashtag LiveTheFrenchWay. Posts from the brand and its hotels will showcase the glamorous, chic and spontaneous nature of French style, with guests and travelers encouraged to share their best Sofitel experiences as well. A supporting media plan, which will be introduced in 2020, will complement the Live The French Wayglobal roll out and activities. "Sofitel is a global ambassador of French savoir-faire and art de vivre," said Joao Rocco, Vice President, Luxury Brand Management, Sofitel Brands. "Our 'Frenchness' is the attribute most frequently praised by our guests and most often mentioned within their feedback, so we know that our culture is important to them. Our unique sense of joie de vivre is felt at our hotels in more than 40 countries across five continents, and it's a defining element that has become the signature of our brand." Modern luxury voyageurs are invited to eat, sleep, enjoy, travel, stay, celebrate and Live the French Way at Sofitel Hotels & Resorts through the brand passions of design, gastronomy, art & culture, and well-being. Upon arrival, guests are greeted in French by Sofitel staff wearing made-to-measure designs created by Parisian-based fashion designer Lea Peckre. Senses are awakened by the wafting scent of Essence de Sofitel, a gorgeous fragrance created by renowned perfumer Lucien Ferrero, which wafts through the hotel lobby and public spaces. Sofitel Sound Signature by DJ Mosey sets a sultry and insouciant atmosphere. In the late afternoon, guests indulge in Le Gouter or L'Aperitif in the hotel bars, followed by Gastronomie Francaise in the dining rooms. With a characteristically light French touch, Sofitel will continue to offer a whirlwind of culturally fascinating events all year long, from photography exhibitions and fashion week events, to glittering, star-studded La Nuit by Sofitel parties, to Fete de la Musiquecelebrations around the summer solstice, and Sofitel Wine Days during the annual French wine harvest. A partnership with Diner en Blanc in North America invites Sofitel guests to skip the wait lists and enjoy a VIP experience within one of the most sought-after French cultural events in the world. NOTE TO EDITORS: High resolution images, sample advertisements and brand videos are available upon request. ABOUT SOFITEL HOTELS & RESORTS Sofitel Hotels & Resorts is an ambassador of modern French style, culture and art-de-vivre around the world. Established in 1964, Sofitel is the first international luxury hotel brand to originate from France with over 120 chic and remarkable hotels in the world's most sought after destinations. Sofitel exudes a refined and understated sense of modern luxury, always blending a touch of French decadence with the very best of the locale. The Sofitel collection includes such notable hotels as Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg, Sofitel London St James, Sofitel Munich Bayerpost, Sofitel Singapore City Centre, Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour and Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort. Sofitel is part of Accor, a world-leading travel and lifestyle group which invites travelers to feel welcome in almost 4,800 hotels, resorts and residences, along with some 10,000 of the finest private homes around the globe. ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND Sofitel Legend is an illustrious selection of heritage luxury hotels where the best of past and present converge. Set within beautiful and culturally-rich destinations, each legendary retreat is both timeless and elegant, delivering lavish settings, renowned restaurants and modern comforts matched with impeccable service for the ultimate luxury experience. Noble, rare and soulful, Sofitel Legend hotels entice worldly travelers who are all drawn to these beloved places of grandeur for their architectural beauty, sweeping vistas and captivating ambience. Sofitel Legend is part of Accor, a world-leading augmented hospitality group offering unique and meaningful experiences in 4,800 hotels, resorts, and residences across 100 countries. sofitel.com | accorhotels.group PRESS CONTACTS: Line Crieloue Senior PR Manager line.crieloue@accor.com +33-1-45-38-18-11 Estelle Wimel Communication Manager estelle.wimel@accor.com +33-1-45-38-18-29 Blood Purification supplement includes studies on real-world use of Oxiris to treat patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) Studies add to scientific exchange on the role of blood filtering technology to address critical conditions Patient registry is being started to generate additional evidence on Oxiris Baxter International Inc. (NYSE: BAX), a global leader in acute care therapies, announced today that the peer-reviewed journal Blood Purification published a supplemental issue sponsored by Baxter that features real-world clinical experience with the company's Oxiris filter, which can be used simultaneously in continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) and in the removal of cytokines and endotoxin to aide in the management of acute kidney injury (AKI) patients with sepsis. The studies, which are being highlighted at the 37th Vicenza Course on AKI and CRRT in Italy this week, add to the body of scientific knowledge around the use of extracorporeal (outside the body) blood purification (EBP) to address critical conditions. The use of EBP to remove cytokines and endotoxin from the blood represents a promising approach to treat patients with conditions where excessive levels of those inflammatory mediators are often seen including sepsis, a serious medical condition that affects up to 40 percent of critically ill patients in the ICU.1-7 While EBP continues to be studied for its potential to help address sepsis and other conditions, clinical research is particularly challenging in this setting. In fact, many clinical trials that explored the effect of EBP have failed to demonstrate consistent results due to the complexity of patient cases, among other factors. To help address these limitations, Baxter intends to support the creation of the OxirisNet registry with several Italian hospitals to track key treatment data for patients who receive a treatment with the Oxiris filter. The new registry will use a web-based platform specifically designed for research purposes and will be fed by clinical data that are prospectively collected. "Caring for patients in the intensive care unit is changing due to new technologies and research becoming available," said Kai Harenski, M.D., medical affairs lead for Baxter's Acute Therapies business. "When leading clinicians share real-world experiences of how they are using new therapeutic options like Oxiris, we can help increase scientific knowledge in a clinical area that is difficult to study." Among the nine manuscripts published in the new Blood Purification supplement, clinicians described filter technologies available today and shared clinical experiences when treating different types of patients. In one manuscript, researchers in Italy performed a retrospective observational study including 50 patients who were treated with CRRT using the Oxiris set to address AKI and sepsis or septic shock. A second manuscript described a retrospective cohort study of 31 patients in France who had septic shock and AKI requiring CRRT combined with Oxiris. Though their conclusions were limited by available data and study designs, the researchers observed an association between treatment with Oxiris and certain improved clinical measures, such as hemodynamic status (reduction in lactate level and norepinephrine dose and increase in mean arterial pressure) and renal function, providing an important evidence base for clinicians using Oxiris in current practice. Additional data is needed to validate these real-world outcomes. Harenski added, "Baxter will continue to invest in generating evidence to better understand and advance scientific knowledge of the latest clinical research as part of our vision to transform care for patients in the ICU." Baxter funded the logistics to publish and provide open access to the supplement and was involved in identifying its theme and potential contributors. However, manuscripts were independently reviewed and Baxter was not involved in creating the content except as contributing authors on certain manuscripts. About Baxter Every day, millions of patients and caregivers rely on Baxter's leading portfolio of critical care, nutrition, renal, hospital and surgical products. For more than 85 years, we've been operating at the critical intersection where innovations that save and sustain lives meet the healthcare providers that make it happen. With products, technologies and therapies available in more than 100 countries, Baxter's employees worldwide are now building upon the company's rich heritage of medical breakthroughs to advance the next generation of transformative healthcare innovations. To learn more, visit www.baxter.com and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. This release includes forward-looking statements concerning Baxter and its Oxiris set, including Oxiris' indications, use, effectiveness and risks and expectations with regard to its availability in countries in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and other countries in the future and Baxter's ability to generate additional clinical evidence supporting the use of Oxiris. The statements are based on assumptions about many important factors, including the following, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements: satisfaction of regulatory and other requirements; actions of regulatory bodies and other governmental authorities; product quality, manufacturing or supply issues; patient safety issues; changes in law and regulations; and other risks identified in Baxter's most recent filing on Form 10-K and other SEC filings, all of which are available on Baxter's website. Baxter does not undertake to update its forward-looking statements. Baxter and Oxiris are trademarks of Baxter International Inc. or its subsidiaries. 1. Pavon A, Binquet C, Kara F, et al. Profile of the risk of death after septic shock in the present era: an epidemiologic study. Crit Care Med. 2013;41:2600-2609. 2. Blanco J, Muriel-Bombin A, Sagredo V, et al. Incidence, organ dysfunction and mortality in severe sepsis: a Spanish multicentre study. Crit Care. 2008;12:R158. 3. Engel C, Brunkhorst FM, Bone HG, et al. Epidemiology of sepsis in Germany: results from a national prospective multicenter study. Intensive Care Med. 2007;33:606-618. 4. Finfer S, Bellomo R, Lipman J, French C, Dobb G, Myburgh J. Adult-population incidence of severe sepsis in Australian and New Zealand intensive care units. Intensive Care Med. 2004;30:589-596. 5. Karlsson S, Varpula M, Ruokonen E, et al. Incidence, treatment, and outcome of severe sepsis in ICU-treated adults in Finland: the Finnsepsis study. Intensive Care Med. 2007;33:435-443. 6. Kaukonen KM, Bailey M, Suzuki S, Pilcher D, Bellomo R. Mortality related to severe sepsis and septic shock among critically ill patients in Australia and New Zealand, 2000-2012. JAMA. 2014;311:1308-1316. 7. Sjoding MW, Prescott HC, Wunsch H, Iwashyna TJ, Cooke CR. Longitudinal changes in ICU admissions among elderly patients in the United States. Crit Care Med. 2016;44:1353-1360. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005334/en/ Contacts: Media Contact Beth Mueller, (224) 948-5353 media@baxter.com Investor Contact Clare Trachtman, (224) 948-3020 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / THERAMED HEALTH CORP. (CSE: TMED, OTCQB: EVAHF) (the "Company") is pleased to have one of their scientific advisors co-hosting various panels in one of the leading international extraction and analytical testing conferences. THERAMED'S Chief Science Advisor, Dr. Ricardo E Rivera-Acevedo will be a panelist at CONCENTRATION 2019, a first of its kind conference on all matters pertaining to extraction technology and analytical testing within the cannabis industry. "CONCENTRATION 2019 is a breakthrough event assembling the entire specialty cannabis extraction and analytical science spectrum in one smart, connected space that's focused on providing real solutions with proven success." The event is being held in California and is expected to attract over 2,500 attendees from throughout the cannabis and hemp industry. The speakers, exhibits, demo's, and panels will cover a wide-range of topics on the industry's cutting-edge. "We are excited to have Dr. Rivera-Acevedo, one of our own advisors, at this dynamic event and showcase the level of knowledge in the cannabis industry that he has become known for." Commented C.K. Cheung, CEO of Theramed. The Company continues to work on developing new technologies and pharmacological formulations for a personalized CBD healthcare system; in order to better serve patients that could also benefit from medicinal cannabis-based therapies. THERAMED HEALTH CORPORATION Email theramedhealthcorp@gmail.com Website http://www.theramedhealthcorp.com CSE Micro-site: http://thecse.com/en/listings/technology/Theramed-Health-Corporation US OTC Markets (OTCQB): http://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/EVAHF/news About THERAMED HEALTH (CSE: TMED, OTCQB: EVAHF) Theramed Health Corporation - is a technology company focused in the healthcare and life sciences sector to develop a personalized healthcare system. The company has recently been focused on utilizing CBD derived from Hemp as a core component. The company through its subsidiaries has assets and technologies involved in extracting and purifying CBD extracts, creating formulations through its key scientists, and with its medical device technology monitoring capabilities. Theramed's unique combination of technologies may allow it to be the first to be able to offer a complete quality assured vertically integrated "CBD Health System" for monitoring, dosing, and recording the effects of CBD on your cardiovascular system. Disclaimers This news release contains forward-looking statements based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results. Such statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements. The company disclaims any intention or obligation to revise or update such statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators and on the OTC Markets website which is posted on www.sedar.com, http://thecse.com/en/listings/technology/Theramed-Health-Corporation, and http://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/EVAHF/filings. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE or CNSX Markets), nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the CSE), or any other regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The Company does not undertake to update this news release unless required by applicable law. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein in the United States. The securities described herein have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities law and may not be offered or sold in the "United States", as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration requirements is available. SOURCE: THERAMED HEALTH CORP. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/546746/Theramed-Scientific-Advisor-and-Resident-Cannabinologist-to-Co-Host-Panels-at-Major-Extraction-Conference KING OF PRUSSIA, PA / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / Emergent Health Corp. (OTC PINK: EMGE) (the "Company") the purpose of this Press Release is to continue updating our shareholders: The Company moves ahead in the process of developing a reverse Berkshire Hathaway (BRK-A) business model as explained previously. To further expand, a proven "start-up" model was developed by Thermo Electron, which is now Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (TMO). As with Thermo Electron, each subsidiary is expected to raise its own capital and have an independent valuation. It thus acts as a "pure play" and contributes book value and a revenue base to the Company. Our network marketing division, known as JDI Life https://jdi.jdilife.com is one such pure play growing on average 10 to 20% per month in Distributors from its base. Its proprietary CBD Plus capsule product continues to appear to be unique in the growing CBD market place. The Company is optimistic, this and other new products, will continue growth, and at same time can offer no guarantee. Emergent Medical Foods, Inc., a WY corporation (the "Medical Food Sub"), is a subsidiary of the Company and another pure play. The Medical Food Sub is moving ahead with its goal to test and market its licensed, patented NutraCan product as a medical food for Nutritional Support for Cancer patients and attempt to prove that it can also improve quality of life of such people so afflicted. The NutraCan Product could be a disruptor in the medical food category. The Medical Food Sub intends to become a publicly traded company at some future time, if and when successful. The Company intends to release more information about the Medical Food Sub in the future. Nothing stated about the Medical Food Sub is intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease. The Company Founder has invented certain new and useful improvements in TOPICAL COMPOSITIONS FOR TREATING FUNGAL INFECTIONS, for which was filed on May 22, 2019 a provisional patent application in the United States under application no. 62/851173. The intention is to license the Company to market the innovations of this patent which could be beneficial to those with unresolved fungal disease. Unresolved fungal disease is an undertreated market, particularly of the toes. The global antifungal drugs market size was valued at USD 11.3 billion in 2017. The product under consideration is expected to be an over the counter treatment breakthrough. The Company has at this time purchased 63,100 free trading shares of its current free trading shares of 2,120,594 shares in CEDE (Street Name). The remaining 52,809,406 shares and future shares which are not in Street Name are not eligible for conversion to Street Name until the Company has Current Information posted at OTC Markets. At such time the Company is considering working with its shareholders to establish some kind of registered liquidity event if and when the market becomes more liquid, and if feasible. The company intends to continue to work diligently towards current status on OTC Markets. New Advisory Board Members will also be introduced over the next 90 days. The Company hopes shareholders will find this Press Release informative as to its intentions. About Emergent Health Corp. Emergent Health Corp., a diversified biotechnology firm, is focused on the health and wellness industry. With patented, patent pending and proprietary nutritionally designed products, Emergent believes it is positioning itself as a leader in the fields of Regenerative Medicine and/or Health as defined by the National Institute of Health. This press release contains certain "forward-looking" statements, defined in the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Statements, which are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements. The company, through its management, makes forward-looking public statements concerning its expected future operations, performance and other developments. Such forward-looking statements are estimates reflecting the company's best judgment based upon current information and involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that other factors will not affect the accuracy of such forward-looking statements. It is impossible to identify all such factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those estimated by the company. This press release is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy securities. CONTACT: Emergent Health Corp. Investor Relations 484-518-9000 SOURCE: Emergent Health Corp. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/546371/Emergent-Health-Corp-EMGE-OTC-Markets-Exciting-New-Developments LONDON, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- TokenMarket, the blockchain-based global investment platform, today announces its partnership with Loopring, the protocol for decentralised token exchanges. The collaboration will accelerate security and transparency in the US$222 billion digital asset trading market. The two companies will work together to launch Loopring Protocol 3.0 within TokenMarket's upcoming decentralised securities exchanges, located in Europe and the Middle East. While current decentralised exchange speeds allow approximately two trades per second to be settled on the Ethereum blockchain, Loopring Protocol 3.0 allows up to 525/sec by using zero-knowledge proofs, dramatically increasing throughput and improving the speed and cost of TokenMarket's decentralised exchanges. Founded in 2017, Loopring is an open-sourced protocol for building decentralised exchanges and supporting infrastructure. It has been designed to give users and developers multiple benefits, such as non-custodial settlement, order sharing, anti-front running, and the ability to be deployed on multiple smart contract platforms. Protocol 3.0 has focused on providing scalability without sacrificing the security guarantees offered by public blockchains. It does so by ensuring that only a small amount of information requires on-chain verification, with most activity being compressed into proofs. It thereby allows decentralized exchanges to offer better safety, with comparable speeds previously only found on centralized exchanges. Upon the announcement, TokenMarket CTO and Co-founder Mikko Ohtamaa stated: "Using Loopring Protocol 3.0 will enable our users to have even more protection on our decentralised security token exchange. The groundbreaking protocol Loopring has developed, combined with our decentralized platform, will give users the freedom that centralised exchanges simply do not have. I am excited to be working closely alongside the Loopring team as things develop." Concurrently, Loopring Founder and CEO Daniel Wang said in a statement: "Our mission is to support the future of value exchange, and we're thrilled that TokenMarket has chosen to integrate and build upon Loopring to power their platform. TokenMarket has ambitious plans regarding security token trading venues, which is a sector Loopring has developed infrastructure for since version 2 of our protocol. We're optimistic their experienced team will excel." About TokenMarket TokenMarket is a global investment platform that utilises its blockchain-based platform to enable rapid growth companies to raise capital faster. The platform has assisted over 30 of the most innovative blockchain companies raise over 240 million in total, issuing digital tokens to over 250,000 investors. TokenMarket has achieved this by providing global, everyday investors access to early-stage opportunities alongside VCs and Angel investors. Further powering the platform are the upcoming securities exchanges in Malta and Dubai, encouraging faster liquidity in the market for security token offerings. For more information visit https://tokenmarket.net/ . About Loopring Loopring Foundation is a blockchain research organization focused on decentralized trading protocols. The open-source Loopring Protocol provides a fundamental building block for non-custodial exchanges (DEXs) and other applications that incorporate trustless token trading. Loopring 3.0 leverages zero-knowledge proofs, allowing for significant throughput increases while maintaining the security guarantees of the Ethereum blockchain. Loopring also offers an auction protocol called Oedax (Open-Ended Dutch Auction Exchange). For more information on the Loopring protocol, please visit: https://loopring.org/ and https://github.com/Loopring . Media Contact: For more information contact: Lawrence Chiu, TokenMarket lawrence@tokenmarket.net James Isola, Maitland jisola@maitland.co.uk Tel: +44-(0)-207-379-5151 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/823769/TokenMarket_Logo.jpg Gaining Traction: Cultivation Analytics That Provide Valuable Yield and Predictive Pathogen Information to Growers Seeking Consistency Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 28, 2019) -Braingrid Limited (CSE: BGRD) ("Braingrid" or the "Company"), a global provider of cultivation analytics that provides real-time environmental information for early detection giving growers the time to take action, announced sales contracts with three new clients, including Canna Farms and Up Cannabis. On April 17, 2019, Briangrid launched its Data Intelligence Program for both growers of cannabis and other agricultural products to better understand the cultivation data Braingrid collects from their grow operations. The data can be used to alter and optimize grow conditions, providing improved consistency of product. "These new contracts illustrate the growing traction that our Data Intelligence Program is generating. This momentum is a direct reflection of the value-add that our analytical services provide," said Michael Kadonoff, CEO of Braingrid. "Developed by our in-house Data Science Team this program enables our clients to better control microclimates for optimal grow outcomes." Canna Farms of Hope, B.C a wholly owned subsidiary of VIVO Cannabis Inc. (TSXV: VIVO) (OTCQX: VVCIF), a premium quality licensed producer of medical dried flowers and oils, completed a large instrumentation order in its first of a three-phase one year Microclimate Analysis Project. "Detecting microclimates is essential for us to optimize our growing conditions and maximize the quality and yield of our cannabis in order to continuously provide our clients with the premium products they expect" said Chris Tuckwell, Head of Security and IT at Canna Farms Ltd. "Implementing Braingrid's proprietary technology will enable us to fine tune our growing conditions and maximize our efficiency." UP Cannabis, a high quality licenced producer in Ontario's Niagara Region also signed a one year agreement to begin the first of three Crop Analysis Projects. UP will receive monthly cultivation analytics reports and Professional Services for the next year. Allison Slater, Greenhouse Systems Technician UP Cannabis stated "I would like to again extend a huge thank you to your team for their consistent dedication and flexibility meeting our needs." In addition, Braingrid announced a third sale; a five year agreement that will see Braingrid provide its real-time sensing and analytical services platform to an Ontario Institute offering unique educational opportunities in partnership with several Ontario colleges and universities.The Institute has created a new greenhouse to support a Sustainable Foods degree program. The greenhouse will be able to support spring to fall growing conditions and will feature climate controls for experimental and production purposes. This application demonstrates how Braingrid's solutions are valuable beyond cannabis cultivation in traditional agriculture. Braingrid continues to develop solutions to help growers make faster and better decisions and optimize their utilization of resources. Further insights are available on Braingrid's blog: http://braingrid.io/blog/ Media Contact: Doug Harris Chief Financial Officer Braingrid Limited 416-480-2488 ir@braingrid.io www.braingrid.io About Braingrid: Braingrid Limited is a global technology company committed to the best interests of the precision agriculture industry for the long term. We provide valuable grow analytics by capturing real-time data using our technology platform to increase revenues, reduce costs, risks and improve yield - making it easier for the grower to operate efficiently and effectively. The Company is listed on the CSE under the symbol BGRD. FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION This news release includes forward-looking information and statements, which may include, but are not limited to, information and statements regarding or inferring the future business, operations, financial performance, prospects, and other plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs of Braingrid. Information and statements which are not purely historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information and statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of Braingrid to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information and statements herein. Although Braingrid believes that any forward-looking information and statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such information and statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking information and statements. Any forward-looking information and statements herein are made as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, Braingrid assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking information and statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward-looking information and statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the content of this news release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/45081 Photo: Colin Dacre Pentictons historic Shatford Centre has a new permanent tenant. New board president Keith MacIntyre has announced he is moving his company, Big Bear Software, into the building. Now that Im leading the charge, I absolutely want to move my company in, MacIntyre told Castanet. My employees are excited to move in, one of them went to high school there. The Shatford Centre has been searching for long-term tenants to support the operation of the century-old building. The Penticton Indian Band Kul Group moved in earlier this year. We dont want people that are just renting space, we want people that will be a part of the building and help it live, grow and be the best it can be, MacIntyre said. Our primary goal is to be an arts school, but we know that we need to have the building full and utilized to be able to fulfill that mandate. Big Bears Penticton operations consist of about five employees. MacIntyre said moving into the Shatford will also allow him to understand the building better and communicate with OSA staff easier. We are open for business, we are willing to listen to ideas. We want to engage our members more, MacIntyre said. The Okanagan School of the Arts is now hiring a full-time executive director, who MacIntyre hopes will be passionate about the project and run with it. Earlier this year the City of Penticton provided a $47,000 emergency grant to keep the arts centre operational. COPENHAGEN, Denmark and ARMONK, New York, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Global container carriers CMA CGM and MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) today announced they will join TradeLens (www.tradelens.com), a blockchain-enabled digital shipping platform, jointly developed by A.P. Moller - Maersk ( MAERSKb.CO ) and IBM (NYSE: IBM). With CMA CGM, MSC, Maersk, and other carriers committed to the platform, data for nearly half of the world's ocean container cargo will be available on TradeLens. The addition of CMA CGM and MSC will provide a significant boost to the TradeLens vision of greater trust, transparency, and collaboration across supply chains to help promote global trade. The companies will promote TradeLens and create complementary services on top of the platform for their customers and partners. "Digitization is a cornerstone of the CMA CGM Group's strategy to provide an end-to-end offer tailored to our customers' needs. We believe that TradeLens, with its commitment to open standards and open governance, is a key platform to help usher in this digital transformation," said Rajesh Krishnamurthy, Executive Vice President, IT & Transformations, CMA CGM Group. "TradeLens' network is already showing that participants from across the supply chain ecosystem can derive significant value." "Digital collaboration is a key to the evolution of the container shipping industry. The TradeLens platform has enormous potential to spur the industry to digitize the supply chain and build collaboration around common standards," said Andre Simha, Chief Digital & Information Officer, MSC. "We think that the TradeLens Advisory Board, as well as standards bodies such as the Digital Container Shipping Association, will help accelerate that effort." TradeLens enables participants to connect, share information and collaborate across the shipping supply chain ecosystem. Members gain a comprehensive view of their data and can digitally collaborate as cargo moves around the world, helping create a transparent, secured, immutable record of transactions. The attributes of blockchain technology are ideally suited to large networks of disparate partners. Blockchain establishes a shared, immutable record of all the transactions that take place within a network and enables permissioned parties access to trusted data in real time. With more than 100 participants on the platform today, TradeLens is already processing over ten million discrete shipping events and thousands of documents each week, providing shippers, carriers, freight forwarders, customs officials, port authorities, inland transportation providers, and others a common view of transactions, which can build trust. A commitment to data ownership rights and permissioned access to data helps ensure privacy and confidentiality while enabling users to collaborate more efficiently with real-time access to shipping data. "The major advances IBM continues to make in blockchain illustrate that the technology is fostering new business models and playing an important role in how the world works" said Bridget van Kralingen, Senior Vice President, Global Industries, Clients, Platforms & Blockchain, IBM. "More than a hundred participants have put their trust in the TradeLens network and are gaining greater transparency and simplicity in the movement of goods. Together we are advancing a shared aim to modernize the world's trading ecosystems." CMA CGM and MSC to Play an Important Role in the TradeLens Network CMA CGM and MSC will operate a blockchain node, participate in consensus to validate transactions, host data, and assume the critical role of acting as Trust Anchors, or validators, for the network. CMA CGM and MSC will be on the TradeLens Advisory Board which will include members across the supply chain to advise on standards for neutrality and openness. Supporting the Entire Shipping Supply Chain "While carrier participation is critical, it is important to note that the TradeLens platform relies on participation from across the entire supply chain ecosystem," said Vincent Clerc, Chief Commercial Officer, A.P. Moller - Maersk. "Increasing ease of doing business for our customers and providing visibility across the container journey is at the center of the Maersk strategy. And TradeLens is all about that in its aim to transform the supply chain industry and provide value to all players, from freight forwarders, to ports and terminal operators and inland transportation providers, to customs and other governmental agencies, and ultimately to the customers themselves." Beneficial cargo owners like Procter and Gamble will benefit from the addition of more carriers onto the platform. "P&G ships a significant volume of ocean containers every year. Whether filled with our products or the materials used in production, understanding the status of our containers helps us manage an efficient supply chain. We are convinced that the industry will benefit from the transparency and accuracy of blockchain solutions and we are pleased to see MSC, CMA CGM, and Maersk all on the TradeLens platform. We have been testing TradeLens for the P&G business and see potential as the solution scales. We look forward to industry-wide adoption to benefit all network members," said Michelle Eggers, Director Global Logistics Purchases, P&G. About CMA CGM Led by Rodolphe Saade, the CMA CGM Group is a world leader in shipping and logistics. Its 509 vessels serve more than 420 ports on five continents around the world and carried nearly 21 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in 2018. With CEVA, a world leader in logistics services, CMA CGM handled more than 500,000 tons of airfreight and 1.9 million tons of inland freight in 2018. CMA CGM is enjoying sustained growth and is constantly innovating to offer customers new maritime, inland and logistics solutions. Present on every continent and in 160 countries through its network of 755 offices and 750 warehouses, the Group employs 110,000 people worldwide, of which 2,400 in Marseille where its head office is located. www.cmacgm-group.com About MSC MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. is a global leader in transportation and logistics, privately owned and founded in 1970 by Gianluigi Aponte. As one of the world's leading container shipping lines, MSC operates 480 offices across 155 countries worldwide with over 70,000 employees. With access to an integrated network of road, rail and sea transport resources which stretches across the globe, the company prides itself on delivering global service with local knowledge. MSC's shipping line sails on more than 200 trade routes, calling at over 500 ports. www.msc.com About TradeLens The TradeLens platform has been jointly developed by Maersk and IBM. TradeLens is an open and neutral industry platform underpinned by blockchain technology, supported by major players across the global shipping industry. The platform promotes the efficient, transparent and secure exchange of information in order to foster greater collaboration and trust across the global supply chain. www.tradelens.com Contacts: CMA CGM media@cma-cgm.com IBM Holli Haswell hhaswell@us.ibm.com +1 720- 396-5485 Maersk Mikkel Linnet Mikkel.Elbek.Linnet@maersk.com +45 3363 8515 MSC media@msc.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/893277/1.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/95470/ibm_logo.jpg CINCINNATI, OH / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / Callitas Health Inc., (CSE: LILY, OTCQB: MPHMF, FWB: T3F3), (the "Company" or "Callitas") a clinical-stage pharmaceutical development, OTC consumer goods marketing and cannabis delivery development company, today announced that Brian D. Keane will join the team as the Company's Capital Markets and Merger and Acquisitions Consultant. The addition of Brian to the team will allow Callitas to continue focus on its patented wellness technology delivery platform and continued expansion into the global cannabis marketplace. Brian D. Keane J.D., B Sc, has over 20 years of capital markets, investing and C-level consulting experience with over 100 emerging growth companies globally. He is currently CEO of Qualified Capital Consultants and co-founder of 420 Acquisitions, LLC. He has served in multiple consulting roles and directorships with family offices, public companies and multimedia specialists in the legal cannabis industry. Among them, he served as founding director at 1933 Industries Inc, CSE:TGIF. Previously, Brian had banking and M&A roles at Deutsche Bank, Rodman and Renshaw, Ladenburg Thalmann & Co, Techvest, LLC and Yorkville Advisors. He began his career as a securities trader at NDB Capital Group (NYSE:NDB) and has held multiple FINRA Securities Licenses. He earned a JD from New York Law School and a B Sc. from the University of Scranton. "We are proud to welcome Brian back to the Callitas team. As prior interim CEO, Brian is familiar with our patented delivery technology, as well as the multiple assets that are owned by the Company that will be evaluated for monetization as we expand into the legal cannabis market," said James Thompson, CEO of Callitas. "We are confident in his depth of experience in both capital markets and cannabis to help the Company shareholders achieve increased value on the heels of it expanding its IP into the cannabis space." "We feel the future of cannabis consumption both in retail and future pharmaceutical markets will rely upon accurate dosing, quality control and certainty of active ingredients, its bio-availability and assertion of intellectual property around cannabis-based delivery technologies," Thompson continued. "Brian will be a key member of our team as we continue launching our platform for cannabis products and potential M&A opportunities for the company. "Having worked predominately in the legal cannabis industry for the last five years, the time is now to differentiate by developing novel methodologies for cannabis delivery and protect it through the proper assertion of intellectual property and patents, which Callitas is doing," commented Brian. "I am very excited to help expand the Company's initial portfolio of technologies, both Canna-strips and the recent patent allowance of its Bi-Phasic candy. These products are game changers for accurate dosing and applying it as an alternative for consumers that suffer from pain and are dependent on opioids for relief." "Finally, given the companies proven success in female wellness technology with products in conception, arousal and other applications, I am excited to help drive revenue through furthering its existing partnerships with Lifestyles and EPT as well as identifying other partnerships and M&A opportunities around the world." About Callitas Health Callitas Health Inc. is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical development, OTC consumer goods marketing and cannabis delivery development company, focused on developing innovative technologies for weight management, female sexual health and wellness, cannabis delivery technologies and other proprietary drugs. For more information, visit www.callitas.com. For more information contact Callitas Health James Thompson, CEO, or Callitas Investor Relations T 859-868-3131 TraDigitalIR Investor Relations - Kevin McGrath, Managing Director T 646-418-7002 Notice regarding Forward Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements. The use of any of the words "anticipate," "continue," "estimate," "expect," "may," "will," "project," "should," "believe" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. This news release includes forward-looking statements with respect to the regulatory approval and the commercialization of the rights to the Company's biomedical & drug technologies. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks including various risk factors discussed in the Company's disclosure documents which can be found under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com and the Company's filings to the CSE at www.thecse.com. Such risk factors may cause the inability of the Company to successfully commercialize any of its biomedical technologies. Notice regarding investigational devices: CannaMint Strips, C-103 and Extrinsa are investigational drugs or devices and are not currently available outside of approved clinical trials. Claims regarding the safety and efficacy of these devices have not been evaluated by Health Canada, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or any other international regulatory body. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Statements in this press release that are not strictly historical are "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. These statements involve a high degree of risk and uncertainty, are predictions only and actual events or results may differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements. SOURCE: Callitas Health Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/546425/Callitas-Health-Welcomes-Brian-D-Keane-as-Capital-Markets-and-Merger-and-Acquisitions-Consultant Property Adjoins Pure Gold's Madsen Project in Ontario's Red Lake Gold Camp VICTORIA, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / GoldON Resources Ltd. (TSX-V: GLD) ("GoldON" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to the news release of April 30, 2019, it has signed a Definitive Agreement with Great Bear Resources Ltd. (TSX-V: GBR), wherein GoldON has the option to earn an initial 60% interest and a subsequent 100% interest in Great Bear's West Madsen gold property. The Property is comprised of two contiguous claim blocks (Block "A" and "B"), each roughly six kilometres (km) by three km in size for a total area of 3,860 hectares, and is a newly identified geological continuity of the greenstone belt within the Balmer and Confederation assemblages. Block A is contiguous with Pure Gold's Madsen Project, which is host to the historical Madsen and Starratt Olsen gold mines; and where Pure Gold recently completed a Feasibility Study on the Madsen deposit and a Preliminary Economic Assessment on the Fork, Russett South and Wedge deposits. Please click the image to view in full size. "I am truly excited about the discovery potential of the West Madsen property as it ticks all the boxes for a gold exploration project. It's located in the heart of the prolific Red Lake Camp, adjoins the highest-grade gold development project in Canada, and we have Great Bear Resources as a partner and technical advisor," said Michael Romanik president of GoldON. In order to earn an initial 60% interest in the Property, GoldON must: (a) incur minimum Exploration Expenditures on the Property, as follows: (i) $100,000 on or before the first anniversary of the Definitive Agreement; (ii) a cumulative total of not less than $350,000 on or before the second anniversary of the Definitive Agreement; and (iii) a cumulative total of not less than $750,000 on or before the third anniversary of the Definitive Agreement; and (b) pay cash to Great Bear as follows: (i) $50,000 within 10 days of signing a Definitive Agreement; (ii) $50,000 on or before the date that is 10 days after the first anniversary of the Definitive Agreement; and (iii) $75,000 on or before the date that is 10 days after the second anniversary of the Definitive Agreement; and (c)issue common shares of GoldON to Great Bear as follows: (i) 250,000 Shares within 10 days of signing the Definitive Agreement; (ii)250,000 Shares on or before the date that is 10 days after the first anniversary of the Definitive Agreement; and (iii)375,000 Shares on or before the date that is 10 days after the second anniversary of the Definitive Agreement. In order to earn the remaining 40% interest, for a total of 100% interest, GoldON must: (a) incur additional Exploration Expenditures on the Property of at least $750,000 on or before the fourth anniversary of the Definitive Agreement, and (b) pay $500,000 cash or issue 500,000 Shares to Great Bear at GoldON's election on or before the date that is 15 days after the third anniversary of the Definitive Agreement. Great Bear will retain a 2.5% Net Smelter Return royalty after GoldON completes the initial 60% earn-in. GoldON shall have the right to buy back 1% of the Royalty for $500,000 at any time prior to a production decision being made on all or part of the Property. R. Bob Singh, P. Geo, an independent qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release on behalf of the Company. About GoldON Resources Ltd. GoldON is an exploration company focused on discovery-stage properties located in the prolific gold mining belts of northwestern Ontario, Canada. The Company has recently added projects in the Red Lake Camp to its portfolio to go along with its flagship Slate Falls project where 18 Au-Ag mineralized zones have been identified over the 7-km breadth of the property. GoldON has 12.4 million shares issued and is fully funded to complete its spring/summer work programs. For additional information please visit our website and view our latest presentation by clicking here or contact Michael Romanik. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Signed "Michael Romanik" Michael Romanik, President Direct line: (204) 724-0613 Email: info@goldonresources.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. SOURCE:GoldON Resources Ltd. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/546725/GoldON-Signs-Definitive-Agreement-with-Great-Bear-on-West-Madsen-Property Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 28, 2019) - Argentum Silver Corporation (TSXV: ASL) ("Argentum" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company has signed a definitive agreement dated May 27, 2019 (the "Agreement") with Norsemont II Resources Corp. ("Norsemont"), a private British Columbia company. Norsemont owns a 100% interest in the Cochavara Silver-Lead-Zinc Project (the "Cochavara Project") in Northern Peru. Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, Argentum will acquire all the issued and outstanding securities of Norsemont in exchange for common shares in the capital of Argentum (the "Proposed Transaction"). The Proposed Transaction contemplated by the Agreement is a related party transaction. Terms of the Proposed Transaction Subject to regulatory and all other necessary approvals, Argentum will acquire all the issued and outstanding securities of Norsemont in exchange for 2,777,778 common shares in the capital of Argentum at a price of $0.18 per common share. In addition, holders of convertible securities of Norsemont will receive 400,000 common share purchase warrants of Argentum, each warrant entitling the holder thereof to acquire a common share at an exercise price of $0.25 per common share on or before the date that is three years following the closing of the Proposed Transaction. Following completion of the Proposed Transaction, Argentum will provide the ongoing management team for the Company and the shareholders of Norsemont will be entitled to have one nominee appointed to the board of directors of Argentum. Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to several conditions, including TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") final acceptance, completion of due diligence, board and minority shareholder approval, if necessary. There can be no assurance that the acquisition will be completed as proposed or at all. Trading in the securities of Argentum should be considered speculative. Prior to the closing of the Proposed Transaction, Argentum shall, subject to TSXV approval, advance $100,000 to Norsemont. The advance shall bear interest at a rate of 5% per annum and be repayable on demand. The advance will be used to satisfy outstanding payables relating to the Cochavara Project in Peru, pay for a technical report relating to the Cochavara Project and ongoing costs related to security at the Cochavara Project site. Cochavara Project The Cochavara Project consists of six concessions totalling 3,479 hectares located in the Department of La Libertad in Northern Peru, approximately 70 kilometres east of the city of Trujillo. The historic Quiruvilca silver/lead/zinc mine ("Quiruvilca") is located 3.5 kilometres northeast of the northern boundary of the Cochavara Project area. Quiruvilca is a large polymetallic vein deposit with over 130 different mineralized structures hosted in the Mid-Miocene Calipuy volcanic complex. The mineralization at Quiruvilca is contained in a series of narrow veins filling fractures and faults. Although narrow, the veins tend to have an extensive lateral and vertical continuity. Production from the Quiruvilca mine was first recorded in 1789, and has been mined on an industrial scale since 1924. More recently, Pan American Silver acquired the Quiruvilca mine in 1995 and sold the mine to a private company in 2012. The Cochavara Project currently has a valid exploitation permit to extract mineral for processing at third-party plants. Related Party Transaction Pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders ("MI 61-101"), which is incorporated by reference into the policies of the TSXV under Policy 5.9, the LOI constitutes a "related party transaction" as a result of Sprott Mining Inc. ("Sprott Mining"), a corporation controlled by Eric Sprott, being a control person of Argentum and a control person of Norsemont. Argentum intends to rely on the exemptions from the valuations and minority approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and Sections 5.7(a), because neither the fair market value of the subject matter, nor the fair market value of the consideration for the Proposed Transaction, in so far as it involves the interested party, exceeds 25% of Argentum's capitalization. About Argentum Silver Corp. Argentum Silver is a junior mineral exploration company listed on the TSXV under the stock symbol ASL. Argentum hold 80% interest in the Vanadium Ridge Property located at the southern end of the Quesnel Trough 50 km north of Kamloops, British Columbia. The property consists of 20 mining claims covering 2,151 hectares near the town of Barriere. The project hosts vanadium-rich magnetite mineralization in seams and pods in altered ultramafic to intermediate intrusive rocks which form a portion of a large Late Triassic Poison Creek diorite intrusion complex. The near-surface exposure of vanadiferous magnetite is an attractive exploration target that may not require chemical processing for the liberation of a magnetite concentrate. Argentum feels it is a good entry into what is becoming one of the most sought-after commodities in the battery-metal sector. The technical aspects of this press release have been reviewed and approved by Gary Nassif, M.Sc., P.Geo., President and CEO of Argentum. For more information contact: Gary Nassif, President & CEO 416-855-9304 gnassif@argentumsilvercorp.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release includes forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required by applicable laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/45086 MightyHive managing director for EMEA region receives prestigious Ad Age honor SAN FRANCISCO, May 28, 2019, the leading media consultancy, today announced that Sasha Schmitz, managing director for the EMEA region, has been named an Ad Age Woman to Watch Europe 2019. The prestigious list honors groundbreakers, forward thinkers and rainmakers in the marketing and advertising realm who are blazing trails with new solutions, standout creative work and business-building initiatives. Schmitz is responsible for scaling the company's business across Europe. In just two years, she grew the MightyHive EMEA team from three women in a co-working space in London to a 30-person team, with offices in London, Stockholm, Paris and Milan - with more offices in Europe and the Middle East to come. Under her leadership, MightyHive's European revenue grew by triple-digit percentages in 2018, while maintaining a 100 percent retention rate across the entire region. Schmitz has been instrumental in developing partnerships in Europe that enable better connections between media, creative and technology, resulting in better experiences for advertisers and consumers. Her programmatic expertise and deep understanding of client management have been key in securing MightyHive's marquee European clients, who still remain on their roster today. In 2019, Schmitz will continue to build the relationship between creative agency MediaMonks and MightyHive following the company's 2018 merger with Sir Martin Sorrell's S4 Capital, informing how the companies under the S4 Capital umbrella align offerings to better benefit clients. "Having seen Sasha in action over the past few months, I am certain that Ad Age made the right decision," said Sir Martin Sorrell, Executive Chairman of S4 Capital. "I look forward to seeing S4 Capital develop more talent like Sasha to lead the industry into the new era." "Sasha is an excellent example of a new breed of digital marketers, savvy across the board in technology, media and general business acumen. We made a bet on her talent and ambition to lead our entry into Europe, and the results have exceeded our expectations," said MightyHive CEO Pete Kim. "Her leadership of the European region has been critical for our overall business growth. We are thrilled that one of our most valued leaders is receiving this well-deserved recognition." Schmitz added, "I am honored to be recognized by Ad Age, alongside many other outstanding women. Leadership to me is about building an inclusive culture and uniting teams across different cultural backgrounds, all while scaling the company's business. Throughout the journey, I feel it has been critical to empower teams with strategic clarity and a collaborative structure to develop their strengths and equip them with the confidence to nurture business relationships of their own." To see the full list of Ad Age Women to Watch Europe 2019 honorees, please click here . About MightyHive MightyHive is a new breed of media consultancy that partners with global brands and agencies seeking transformative marketing results in a time of massive disruption and opportunity. Recognized as the global leader in advanced marketing and advertising technologies, MightyHive provides consulting and services in the areas of media operations and training, data strategy and analytics. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, with offices in Auckland, London, Melbourne, New York, Singapore, Stockholm, Sydney, Tokyo, Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal. In 2018, MightyHive merged with S4 Capital plc (SFOR.L), a new age/new era digital advertising and marketing services company established by Sir Martin Sorrell. Contact Cassady Nordeen Blast PR for MightyHive cassady@blastpr.com 718-644-0273 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ce5879db-88aa-4e58-a42d-d82e8535520a Another thirty-three Dominican families will benefit from new affordable homes by the end of June as part of the Skerrit administration's larger plan to build 5,000 homes around the Caribbean island, called the 'Housing Revolution'. The Government Information Service (GIS) of Dominica recently detailed some of the latest updates concerning the Grand Fond Housing Project on its 'National Focus' segment. The project is low-cost but designed to withstand the harshest hurricanes and seismic events. It is part of Dominica's long-term goal to become the 'world's first climate-resilient nation'. The Grand Fond project will also feature reinforced concrete, stable roof structures and impact-resistant windows with solar water heating structures. Similar developments are currently being constructed across the island from areas to the East Coast to communities in the south-east village of Petite Savanne. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, who is also the Minister for Housing and Lands, clarified that, upon moving in, each resident will receive a strata title, allowing for individual ownership as part of the property: "Each family will have a title in their name for this building and this is the same that we're doing with Bellevue Chopin [] so that they can take this to the bank as collateral, as security, to get a loan for any family needs." The 'Housing Revolution' is completely funded by Dominica's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme. The initiative enables global individuals and their immediate relatives to acquire second citizenship by way of an economic contribution to either a government-held fund or buying into selected real estate. The generated funds are injected into several sectors like ecotourism, healthcare, education, climate change resilience, infrastructure and more. The 'Housing Revolution' is only one of the sustainable projects sponsored by the island's CBI Programme. A geothermal plant is also expected to commence construction in the third quarter of 2019 and will be partly funded by the programme. Since 1993, Dominica has been attracting more foreign investors with its unique business and investment opportunities. The island has even been recognised as the world's best offering for second citizenship, for a second year running, by experts at the Financial Times. CS Global Partners is the international legal advisory mandated by the Government to promote the Citizenship by Investment Programme worldwide. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005346/en/ Contacts: Aisha Mohamed pr@csglobalpartners.com +(44)2073184343 www.csglobalpartners.com VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / Nexus Gold Corp. ("Nexus" or the "Company") (TSX-V: NXS, OTCQB: NXXGF, FSE: N6E) is pleased to announce that the Company has reached an agreement with Robert Stares, an arms'-length party, to acquire a series of mineral claims located in Central Newfoundland and commonly known as the Gummy Bear ("GB") Copper-Gold Project (the "Project"). In consideration for the Project, the Company is required to issue 4,000,000 common shares. The Company is also required to grant a 2.0% net smelter returns royalty on commercial production from the Project, one-half of which may be purchased at any time for a cash payment of $1,000,000. The Project is located in Central Newfoundland, 15 km south of South Brook and 40 km north of Badger on the Trans-Canada Highway. Woods roads give good access to all parts of the Project . The Project consists of 7 Claims and covering an area of 2,525 hectares. Regional Geology The Project is underlain on the eastern side by mafic volcanics of the Roberts Arm Group, a steeply dipping, attenuated and deformed sequence of dominantly submarine volcanics and volcanogenic rocks. Much of the central part of the Project is underlain by the Gull Island Formation (Badger Group), comprising marine siliciclastics. A tectonized block of melange termed the Sops Head Complex occurs locally. Marine siliciclastics of the Pennys Brook Fm (Wild Bight Gp) occur to the north. Marine sandstones of the Crescent Lake Fm (Roberts Arm Gp) underlie parts of the NE section of the Project. Mineralization The Company is acquiring the Project to investigate the gold potential based on anomalous gold occurring in outcrop which graded up to 4.2 g/t Au. In addition to the gold showing, several large boulders containing pyrrhotite, pyrite and chalcopyrite have been discovered to the south west which have returned assays ranging from 2.76 - 4.02 % Cu. Historic aeromag/ EM surveys conducted in 1989 identified six parallel conductors a few kilometers to the east of the boulder train. Three additional showings occur in the western portion of the claim block, the Moose Brook Showing, the Tommy's Arm, and the Rocky Point Cu showing. Mineralization is described as consisting of disseminated chalcopyrite, pyrite and possibly molybdenite in the mafic to felsic flows of the Roberts Arm Group (Elias, 1957). Alteration includes graphite and several narrow bands of hematite. Pyrite occurs with the graphite. Mineralization is interpreted as pre-to syn-tectonic. Elias (1957 estimate that 1-2% Cu is present. The Tommy's Arm Fault runs through the mineralized area and may be a structural control for the mineralization. In connection with completion of the acquisition of the Project, the Company intends to issue 400,000 common shares to an arms'-length third party who assisted with introducing the acquisition to the Company. All securities to be issued in connection with the acquisition of the Project will be subject to a four-month-and-one-day statutory hold period in accordance with applicable securities laws. The acquisition remains subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and cannot be completed until such approval is obtained. Figure 1: GB Project (Gummy Bear) Sample Locations About the Company Nexus Gold is a Vancouver-based gold exploration and development company with active projects in West Africa and Canada. The Company is concentrating its efforts on establishing a compliant resource at one or more of it's four current West African-based projects which total over 560-sq kms (56,000+ hectares) of land located on active gold belts and proven mineralized trends, while also conducting development phases on its two 100%-owned Canadian projects, McKenzie Gold Project in Red Lake, Ontario, and the New Pilot Project, located in BC's historic Bridge River Mining Camp. For more information please visit www.nexusgoldcorp.com. Warren Robb P.Geo., Vice-President, Exploration, is the designated Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and is responsible for the technical information contained in this release. On behalf of the Board of Directors of NEXUS GOLD CORP. Alex Klenman President & CEO 604-558-1920 info@nexusgoldcorp.com www.nexusgoldcorp.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. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially because of factors discussed in the management discussion and analysis section of our interim and most recent annual financial statement or other reports and filings with the TSX Venture Exchange and applicable Canadian securities regulations. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws. SOURCE: Nexus Gold Corp. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/546719/Nexus-Gold-to-Acquire-the-GB-Copper-Gold-Project-in-Central-Newfoundland Company's Presentation Tuesday, June 4, 2019, at 1:40 p.m. LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / Concierge Technologies, Inc. (OTCQB: CNCG), a diversified global holding firm, today announced it will be presenting at the 9th annual LD Micro Invitational investor conference Tuesday, June 4, at 1:40 p.m. PST. David Neibert, Chief Operations Officer, will be presenting and meeting with investors. The conference will take place June 4 and 5 at the Luxe Sunset Bel Air Hotel, 1146 Sunset Blvd. It will feature 230 companies, with more than 1,000 attendees. About Concierge Technologies, Inc. Initially founded in 1996, Concierge Technologies was repositioned as a global holding firm in 2015, and currently has operating subsidiaries in financial services, food manufacturing, security systems and beauty products. Offices and manufacturing operations are in the U.S., New Zealand and Canada. For more information, visit www.conciergetechnology.net. About LD Micro LD Micro was founded in 2006 with the sole purpose of being an independent resource in the microcap space. What started out as a newsletter highlighting unique companies has transformed into several influential events annually (Invitational, Summit, and Main Event). In 2015, LDM launched the first pure microcap index (the LDMi) to exclusively provide intraday information on the entire sector. LD will continue to provide valuable tools for the benefit of everyone in the small and micro-cap universe. For those interested in attending, please contact David Scher at david@ldmicro.com or visit www.ldmicro.com for more information. Profiles powered by LD Micro - News Compliments of Accesswire For More Information about Concierge Technologies, contact: Roger S. Pondel PondelWilkinson Inc. 310-279-5980 rpondel@pondel.com SOURCE: Concierge Technologies, Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/546516/Concierge-Technologies-to-Present-at-9th-Annual-LD-Micro-Invitational-Investor-Conference Photo: The Canadian Press A proposed law is going before the B.C. legislature to ban the controversial practice of attempting to change a person's sexual orientation. Green Leader Andrew Weaver says his party's legislation would stop the use of so-called conversion therapy in the province for those under 19 years old. Weaver says the therapy is abusive and damages peoples health and the Sexual Orientation and Gender Protection Act aims to ensure the health and safety of the province's LGBTQ-plus community. The Green leader was joined in the announcement by members of the LGBTQ-plus community, including Vancouver's Peter Gajdics, who says he underwent six years of counselling and medical treatments to cure his homosexuality. Gajdics says the treatments did not work and he later wrote a book about his experiences. Vancouver council passed a bylaw last year banning techniques that attempt to persuade people to change their sexual orientation or gender identity. Ontario and Nova Scotia passed laws in 2015 banning conversion therapy while Manitoba told its health authorities and medical colleges not to support the practice. HOUSTON, TX / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / QS Energy, Inc. (the "Company" or "QS Energy") (OTCQB: QSEP), a developer of integrated technology solutions for the energy industry, today announced that it has engaged Christopher T. Gallagher, PhD as a consulting engineer to work as an integral member of QS Energy's engineering team in advance of AOT demonstration operations in what could be a critical milestone in the Company's commercialization efforts. Over his career, Dr. Gallagher has brought multiple technologies to the international market, has worked and sold products and services in many countries, and has deep expertise in addressing flow assurance and the complexities of heavy crude oil transportation for one of the largest oil services companies in the world. As President of Multiphase Consulting, Dr. Gallagher provides consulting services to the oil and gas industry in the areas of strategy development, due diligence, technical evaluation, and business development. He also advises clients on procurement of new technologies and acquisition activities. Previously, Dr. Gallagher served as President of e9 treatments, where he developed and executed a strategic plan to advance the company's surface treatment technologies in the oil and gas industry, including expansion of the IP portfolio, and commercialization activities, resulting in significant cost savings due to improved wax management for the customers. From 2012 to 2015, he served as Vice President of Technology and Product Management at Rockwater Energy Solutions, a leading provider of water solutions and oilfield chemicals to the North American oil and gas energy market. While at Rockwater, he built a strategy targeting high growth areas for development resulting in an increase in the number of successful new products by more than 200% the first year. He also streamlined operations and rationalized product lines resulting in significant cost savings. From 2010 to 2011 he served as a Vice President with SCF Partners, an energy-focused private equity firm. From 1996 to 2010 he served in a variety of roles with Baker Hughes, most recently as Vice President of Technology for Fluids and Chemicals managing a team of 100 scientists and engineers, where he oversaw a variety of product platforms including drilling fluids, reservoir fluids, fluid environmental services, production optimization, integrity management and flow assurance. Dr. Gallagher holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame, a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame, and a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Davis. He has authored 10 patents and numerous publications in the fields of fluid dynamics, chemicals, as well as oil and gas technologies. Dr. Gallagher noted, "Having worked closely with pipeline operators, I recognize the unmet market need for QS Energy's patented Applied Oil Technology (AOT). In my experience working with teams of scientists and engineers to find cost effective ways to reduce crude oil viscosity and increase pipeline efficiency, I have not come across a technology that could replace traditional diluents and additives. The AOT has the potential to reduce or eliminate dependence on chemical additives with an elegant electromechanical system. The value proposition from both a logistics and economic standpoint for the customers is compelling. I look forward to helping advance the technology through full commercialization and anticipate rapid market uptake." Jason Lane, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, commented, "We are delighted to announce the appointment of Christopher Gallagher, who brings a wealth of relevant technical, engineering, international business and industry expertise. He has been responsible for bringing numerous products to market, brings deep industry relationships, and has an exceptional grasp of fluid mechanics, which will be of tremendous benefit as we advance our full-scale pilot program and seek to enter the commercial phase." For further information about QS Energy, Inc., visit www.QSEnergy.com, read our SEC filings at http://ir.stockpr.com/qsenergy/all-sec-filings and subscribe to Email Alerts at http://ir.stockpr.com/qsenergy/email-alerts to receive Company news and shareholder updates. Safe Harbor Statement Some of the statements in this release may constitute forward-looking statements under federal securities laws. Please visit the following link for our complete cautionary forward-looking statement: http://www.qsenergy.com/site-info/disclaimer About Applied Oil Technology QS Energy's patented Applied Oil Technology (AOT) is a solid-state turn-key system which uses a high volt / low amp electric field to reduce crude oil viscosity. AOT installs inline on crude oil pipelines, operates unattended without interrupting pipeline flow, with full remote monitoring and control. More information is available online at www.qsenergy.com/technology. About QS Energy QS Energy, Inc. (OTCQB: QSEP), develops and markets crude oil flow assurance technologies designed to deliver measurable performance improvements to pipeline operations in the midstream and upstream crude oil markets. More information is available at www.qsenergy.com. Company Contact: QS Energy, Inc. Tel: +1 844-645-7737 E-mail: investor@qsenergy.com Sales: sales@qsenergy.com Investor Relations: Crescendo Communications, LLC Tel: +1 212-671-1021 E-mail: investor@qsenergy.com SOURCE: QS Energy, Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/546744/QS-Energy-Announces-Addition-of-Senior-Industry-Executive-Successful-Entrepreneur-and-Fluid-Dynamics-Expert-Christopher-T-Gallagher-PhD-to-Assist-in-AOT-Demonstration-Operations-and-Preparation-to-Enter-Commercial-Phase Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 28, 2019) - Canna-V-Cell Sciences Inc. (CSE: CNVC) (The "Company"), Canna-V-Cell is announcing today that as part of its program of applying the biofarming technology to Cannabis, it has achieved the critical milestone of ensuring the existence of active cannabinoids ingredients in its bank of cells required for the next step in the biofarming process. Active cannabinoids exist in the trichomes of the Cannabis plant. Trichomes, especially the capitate- stalked glandular hairs, are well known as the main sites of cannabinoids and essential oil production of Cannabis. The below microscopic picture shows the Trichomes grown in the callus using the breakthrough biofarming technology (Figure 1). It matches well the trichomes of a real cannabis plant that is also illustrated below (Figure 2). "Once again, we have reached an important milestone ahead of time demonstrating the vast experience and know how that our R&D team possesses," said Dr. Yochi Hagay, the CTO of Canna-V-Cell while adding, "Growing the trichomes cells in such short amount of time is a major triumph over any doubt of the ability to adapt our patented biofarming technology to produce the active ingredients without growing the cannabis plant itself." Dr. Zaki Rakib, CEO, added, "We have started the journey of bringing the biofarming revolution to the Cannabis industry with confidence. Hitting the major milestones ahead of time takes this confidence to a higher level where we need to start planning beyond the demonstration of the validity of the technology. I am thrilled to be more engaged with figuring out the most optimal way of accelerating the adoption of our proprietary paradigm shifting technology." Figure 1: Trichomes grown in the callus produced by Canna-V-Cell To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6168/45076_855a6e533428b904_003full.jpg Figure 2: Trichomes of a cannabis plant To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6168/45076_855a6e533428b904_004full.jpg About Canna-V-Cell Sciences Inc. Based in Vancouver BC, Canna-V-Cell Sciences Inc. (CNVC) is the exclusive Cannabis worldwide licensee of the proprietary and patent protected BioHarvest technology. It is the first and only industrial large scale plant cell growth technology capable of directly and constantly producing the active plant ingredients without the necessity to grow the plant itself. By adopting this technology and building adequate cells production capacity, Canna-V-Cell's objective is to become the leading supplier of Cannabis for both the medicinal and recreational legal use. Canna-V-Cell Sciences Inc. Dr. Zaki Rakib CEO For further information, please contact: Email: inquiries@cannavcellsciences.ca Local Phone: 604.373.4774 Toll Free: 833.727.4774 Forward-Looking Statements Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things, risks and uncertainties relating to the fact that the Company would require additional funds in order to construct a commercial biochamber facility and risks related to the adaption of the BioHarvest technology to cannabis. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information. Neither Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/45076 Al Alawi and Co. Enters Collaboration Agreement with Andersen Global Al Alawi and Co., a leading full-service law firm located in Oman, has finalized a collaboration agreement with Andersen Global. The addition of Al Alawi and Co. brings 37 years of professional experience to the Andersen Global team in the Middle East. Al Alawi and Co. is one of the largest and oldest independent law firms in Oman, with offices in Muscat and Salalah. Dr. Ali Khamis Al Alawi founded the firm in 1982, and since then the firm has provided tax and legal services to multinational and national corporations, private businesses, government agencies and individuals. These services include banking, finance, restructuring, partnerships, international trade, equity, commercial, IP, and real estate law. "Collaborating with Andersen Global will not only allow us to further expand our services to a greater breadth of clients, but we view it as growing our family," said Dr. Ali Khamis Al Alawi. "My son and daughter are also highly-experienced members of our firm, and we see our shared values of best-in-class, efficiency, and seamlessness echoed in the Andersen family." Mark Vorsatz, Andersen Global Chairman and CEO of Andersen Tax LLC said, "I was most impressed, when we first met, that their firm operates with openness, transparency, coupled with best-in-class service. These are values that we share. Because of this, they are going to fit in very well with our extended team." Andersen Global is an international association of legally separate, independent member firms comprised of tax and legal professionals around the world. Established in 2013 by U.S. member firm Andersen Tax LLC, Andersen Global now has more than 4,500 professionals worldwide and a presence in over 144 locations through its member firms and collaborating firms. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005006/en/ Contacts: Megan Tsuei Andersen Tax 415-764-2700 VALLEY COTTAGE, New York, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Automotive light bars are cost-effective vehicle lights that are substantially fitted in commercial vehicles. Automotive light bars, as considered under the scope of the research, have been mainly categorized on the basis of vehicle type, technology, installation, sales channel, and region/country. Future Market Insights' study, titled, 'Automotive Light Bars Market: Global Industry Analysis 2014-2018 and Opportunity Assessment 2019-2029', analyses the global automotive light bars market, and offers an in-depth analysis of the concerned market for the upcoming ten years. In 2014, the global automotive light bars market was pegged at US$ 664.3 Mn. It is expected to be valued at over US$ 800 Mn at the end of 2019. The automotive light bars market is expected to grow at a CAGR of more than 5% during the projected period of 2019-2029, and reach a value of nearly US$ 1,400 Mn by 2029 end. Download the Sample copy of Report with Table of Contents and Figures: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-7668 Front Installation Applications Continue to Generate Substantial Demand for Automotive Light Bars Light commercial vehicles (LCVs) are expected to account for over half of the global automotive light bars market, as commercial vehicles run more miles and late nights, thus, visibility and cost-efficiency are important factors. Also, the inclination of long distance commuters towards commercial vehicles is anticipated to strengthen the unit sales of automotive light bars during the forecast period. Technology-wise, HID xenon and LED type automotive light bars will reportedly hold over 25% of the global automotive light bars market share. LED automotive light bars offer powerful illumination that is particularly optimum for off-road applications. On the basis of installation, the automotive light bars market has been segmented into front, side, rear, and interior. Since automotive light bars are mostly used as headlamps or fog lights, front installation of automotive light bars is anticipated to retain prominence in the global automotive light bars market. Preview Analysis of Automotive Light Bars Market Segmented by (Vehicle Type - passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles (LCVs) & heavy commercial vehicles (HCVs); Width Type - dual type & wide band; Sales Channel - OEMs & aftermarket;) - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2019-2029:https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/automotive-light-bars-market East Asian Markets Emerging Highly Lucrative for Key Players According to the report, East Asia will account for over a fourth of the market share in the global automotive light bars market owing to the growing vehicle commercial fleet because of increasing export and import activities. In terms of market value share, Europe is expected to be next in the run in the automotive light bars market. By country, China and India are expected to be the emerging countries in the automotive light bars market as a result of enhanced economic conditions, increasing passenger and driver safety regulations, and expanding vehicle fleet. The automotive industry is highly competitive, owing to the presence of several established players, which makes the automotive light bars market fairly consolidated. Due to the presence of a number of local and regional automotive light bar manufacturers, the automotive industry is exceedingly competitive. The global automotive light bars market is estimated to be considerably fragmented. Manufacturers of automotive light bars are likely to remain focused on R&D investments, particularly in emerging countries such as China and India. Buy this report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/7668 Some of the key players active in the global automotive light bars market are HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA, OSRAM Licht AG, FEDERAL SIGNAL CORPORATION, Truck-Lite Co., LLC, Grote Industries, Inc., Whelen Engineering Company Inc., ECCO SAFETY GROUP, PIAA Corporation, Putco Inc., KC HiLiTES Inc., Whacker Technologies, and Haztec International Ltd, among others. Analysts who have compiled the automotive light bars market report are available for interviews and quotes at press@futuremarketinsights.com 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/customization-available/rep-gb-7668 More from Automotive & Transportation Market Intelligence: Automotive Battery Management Systems Production Data Automotive Fuel Cock Market Analysis Airbag Sensors Market Analysis 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. Browse More Automotive & Transportation Market Intelligence 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 Automobile Industry: http://automobileindustry24.com/ Website: https:www.futuremarketinsights.com Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/677274/Future_Market_Insights_Logo.jpg EDMONTON, Alberta, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Alberta Investment Management Corporation (AIMCo), on behalf of certain of its clients, is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement to acquire an 85 per cent equity interest in Northern Courier Pipeline from TC Energy Corporation. The agreement represents a rare opportunity for AIMCo's clients to invest into a strategic oilsands pipeline with fully contracted, long-term cash flows. The 90 kilometre Northern Courier Pipeline system was completed in 2017 and transports bitumen and diluent between the Fort Hills mine site and Suncor Energy's terminal located north of Fort McMurray, Alberta. "The quality of the asset and the operator, along with the counterparty exposure, makes this a low-risk investment which is an ideal fit for our portfolio," states Ben Hawkins, Senior Vice President, Infrastructure & Renewable Resources at AIMCo. "AIMCo has been working with TC Energy to acquire this stake in Northern Courier Pipeline for several months in an effort to add geographic diversity to our infrastructure portfolio through greater exposure to Canadian infrastructure assets." "AIMCo is delighted to be partnered with TC Energy on this Alberta-based asset, which supports market access to billions of dollars' worth of oilsands resources in the province," said Kevin Uebelein, AIMCo Chief Executive Officer. "Through this transaction, AIMCo's clients acquire a high-quality infrastructure asset that continues to be operated by a recognized industry leader in the responsible development of North American energy infrastructure." Following the closing of the transaction, TC Energy will hold a 15 per cent aggregate interest in Northern Courier Pipeline and will remain the operator of the pipeline. About Alberta Investment Management Corporation (AIMCo) AIMCo is one of Canada's largest and most diversified institutional investment managers with more than $115 billion of assets under management. AIMCo was established on January 1, 2008 with a mandate to provide superior long-term investment results for its clients. AIMCo operates at arms-length from the Government of Alberta and invests globally on behalf of 31 pension, endowment and government funds in the Province of Alberta. For more information on AIMCo please visit aimco.alberta.ca. About TC Energy Corporation TC Energy delivers the energy millions of people rely on every day to power their lives and fuel industry. We are not only focused on what we do, but how we do it - guided by core values of safety, responsibility, collaboration and integrity, our more than 7,000 people are committed to sustainably developing and operating pipeline, power generation and energy storage facilities across Canada, the United States and Mexico. TC Energy's common shares trade on the Toronto (TSX) and New York (NYSE) stock exchanges under the symbol TRP. Visit TCEnergy.com and connect with us on social media to learn more. Media Contact: Denes Nemeth, Corporate Communication, O: 780-392-3857, M: 780-932-4013, E: denes.nemeth@aimco.alberta.ca Halifax, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 28, 2019) - ELCORA ADVANCED MATERIALS CORP. (TSXV: ERA) (FSE: ELM) (OTC: ECORF) (the "Company" or "Elcora") is pleased to announce that it has been awarded an NSERC-ENGAGE grant with Associate Professor Dr. Heather Andreas at Dalhousie University. The project will focus on studying Elcora's high-quality graphene as an electrode material for supercapacitors. Dr. Andreas has worked on carbon-based supercapacitors (SCs) for more than 14 years. Dr. Andreas has expertise in: Evaluating supercapacitor materials Graphene Understanding charge movement/redistribution Surface functional groups Carbon reactivity during charge/discharge The effect of impurities Modifying carbon materials to achieve desired supercapacitor performance The super capacitor market is expected to reach 2.18 Billion USD by 2022 at a CAGR of 20.7 % between 2016 and 2022 (https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/supercapacitor-market-worth-218-billion-usd-by-2022-2016-11-28). Factors such as high storage capabilities, need of power conservation, high performance supercapacitors for consumer and automotive applications, and additional capabilities such as moisture resistant, light weight and low equivalent series resistance are the key drivers for the supercapacitor market (https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/supercapacitor.asp). Elcora Advanced Materials has identified supercapacitors (SCs) as an important future application for graphite materials. Supercapacitors are energy storage systems (like batteries) that are typically used in applications where an almost instantaneous response is required (e.g. camera flashes, air-bag deployment, defibrillators AED's and airplane emergency chutes). In SCs, the charge is stored on a carbon electrode, meaning SC performance is incredibly sensitive to the carbon's morphology, chemistry, reactivity/stability and impurities. The common misconception is that carbon is a simple material and all carbons behave similarly - in fact, carbon is incredibly complex and subtle changes in the pore size, structure, degree of graphitization, surface area, chemical environment, etc. can strongly impact carbon performance. To understand graphene's SC applicability requires knowledge of all these parameters and vitally how these parameters impact the performance. Dr. Andreas is ideally suited to study and optimize Elcora's graphite-based products for supercapacitor applications. According to Troy Grant, Chief Executive Officer, "This announcement is great news for Elcora. The funding allows Elcora to collaborate with one of the worlds top researchers in how to understand and optimize graphene/graphite for supercapacitor applications. We expect to demonstrate that Elcora's graphene and graphite-based products are ideally suited for supercapacitor applications. This research may help Elcora secure supply agreements for it's high-quality graphene and graphite-based products." About Elcora Advanced Materials Corp. Elcora was founded in 2011 and has been structured to become a vertically integrated graphite & graphene company. As part of the vertical integration strategy Elcora is securing high-grade graphite and graphene precursor graphite from operations in Sri Lanka and other countries. This combination means that Elcora has the tools and resources for graphite and graphene vertical integration. For further information please visit the company's website at http://www.elcoracorp.com. Klaus Leiders M.Sc., B Sc., Elcora's CMO acted as QP and has prepared and approves of the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release. For further information please contact: Troy Grant, Director, President & CEO, Elcora Advanced Materials Corp., T: +1 902 802-8847 F: +1 902 446-2001. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT: The TSX Venture Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No stock Exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. This News Release includes certain "forward-looking statements". All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding potential mineralization and reserves, exploration results, and future plans and objectives of Elcora, are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Elcora's expectations are exploration risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by Elcora with securities regulators. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the filing statement prepared in connection with the transaction, any information released or received with respect to the transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/45087 The "Western Europe Pay TV Forecasts" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Reflecting the rising importance of the telcos, IPTV is gaining subscribers in Western Europe at the expense of the other pay TV platforms. IPTV overtook satellite TV in 2015 and will be approaching cable by 2024. IPTV will add 5.5 million subscribers between 2018 and 2024. Simon Murray a Principal Analyst said: IPTV operations are owned by telcos. Some telcos also have assets on other platforms. If all of the current proposed deals receive regulatory approval, then telcos will have 18.61 million non-IPTV subscribers by 2024. Adding the 38.72 million IPTV subscribers, telcos will control 56% of Western Europe's pay TV subscribers by 2024. Murray continued: This marks a sea change for Western Europe's pay TV sector. Pay TV is not the priority for telcos broadband and mobile provision are at the forefront. Western Europe will have 101.59 million pay TV subscribers by 2024. Germany will contribute a quarter of the total, followed by the UK (15%) and France (14%). Half of the 18 countries covered in the Western Europe Pay TV Forecasts report will lose pay TV subscribers between 2018 and 2024. Italy will decline the most (down by 728,000 subs) from the 1,229,000 overall losses, followed by the UK (down by 621,000). Key Topics Covered: Outlook: Forecasts for 18 countries in a 55-page PowerPoint document full of charts, graphs and bullet points; Excel workbook covering each year from 2010 to 2024 for 18 countries by household penetration, by pay TV subscribers, by pay TV revenues and by major operator. As well as summary tables by country and by platform; Insight: Detailed country-by-country analysis in an 86-page PDF document. Companies Mentioned Bouygues Boxer BT Canal Digital CanalSat Com Hem DNA DT/T-Home eir Elisa Eltrona Euskatel Free Freenet Get Go HD Austria HD+ KPN/Digitenne Liwest Mediaset Melita Meo/PT NOS Nowo Ono Orange Proximus Riks TV SFR Siminn Sky Stofa Sunrise Swisscom TalkTalk TDC Tele 2 Tele des P&T Telecable Telecolumbus Telecom Italia Telefonica/Movistar Telekom Austria Telenet Telenor Telesat/TV Vlaanderen Telia TNT Unitymedia UPC Viasat Virgin Vodafone VOO You See Ziggo For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/s9vcrn View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005526/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: Cable Television Enables LiveU to focus on long-term strategy and advance its business objectives HACKENSACK, New Jersey, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- LiveU, the leader in live IP video solutions, is pleased to announce that Francisco Partners, a global technology-focused private equity firm, together with co-investor IGP Capital, have acquired LiveU from its existing shareholders to accelerate further the company's global expansion. With support from its new investors, LiveU will continue the company's strong growth momentum. LiveU is democratizing live video by providing high quality live video solutions for TV, mobile, online and social media with its innovative portable devices and cloud services. With over 3,000 customers in 130+ countries, LiveU's technology is the solution of choice for leading broadcasters, sport organizations, news agencies, online and social media. Samuel Wasserman, CEO and Co-Founder of LiveU, said, "We are delighted to have Francisco Partners, a firm with an established track record, as our new majority owner. This will allow us to focus on our long-term strategy and growth objectives, benefiting our customers, partners and employees. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our previous shareholders Canaan Partners, Viola Ventures, Pitango Venture Capital, and Lightspeed Venture Partners for their valued support along the way, and contribution to our success." "We have made tremendous progress in delivering on our promise to establish LiveU as the clear market leader in providing live video streaming solutions for TV, digital and social media," added Wasserman. "This could not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our amazing employees developing and driving superior technology solutions that contribute to LiveU's current market position." "We are extremely excited to be partnering with LiveU as the company enters the next chapter of its growth story," said Eran Gorev, Senior Operating Partner at Francisco Partners. "LiveU is already recognized as the industry leader, and we look forward to partnering with IGP Capital and LiveU's management team to further enhance the company's solutions, grow the customer base and advance its strategic goals." Mario Razzini, Principal at Francisco Partners, added, "The broadcast and media industries are in a period of rapid change and LiveU is distinctively positioned to help customers capitalize on this opportunity with its strong market position and unmatched product innovation and performance." IGP Capital General Partner Assaf Harel, added, "We are thrilled to join Francisco Partners in backing the company and its talented team of professionals. LiveU is uniquely positioned in the global broadcast and media markets and we're excited to support the company with new investment initiatives and future growth prospects." Goldman Sachs acted as exclusive financial advisor to Francisco Partners. About Francisco Partners Francisco Partners is a leading global private equity firm that specializes in investments in technology and technology-enabled businesses. Since its launch over 19 years ago, Francisco Partners has raised over $14 billion in committed capital and invested in more than 200 technology companies, making it one of the most active and longstanding investors in the technology industry. The firm invests in opportunities where its deep sectoral knowledge and operational expertise can help companies realize their full potential. For more information on Francisco Partners, please visit www.franciscopartners.com. About IGP Israel Growth Partners (IGP) is a private equity investment firm established with a mission to provide growth capital to Israeli-related technology companies. With $500 million in AUM, IGP seeks to partner with exceptional companies and management teams who are eager to accelerate their growth and to reach category leadership and significant position in their respective markets. For more information visit www.igpcapital.com. About LiveU LiveU is driving the live video revolution, providing live video streaming for TV, mobile, online and social media. Let your audience become part of your story with high-quality and flawless live video, transmitted from anywhere in the world, through the use of our patented bonding and video transport technology. LiveU creates a consistent bandwidth and a reliable connection so you can acquire, manage and distribute high quality remote live broadcasts over IP. Our broad portfolio of products sets the industry standard for live video production. From backpacks to smartphones, and satellite/cellular hybrid to external antenna solutions, LiveU offers a complete range of devices for live video coverage anytime, anywhere. In addition, LiveU offers extensive cloud-based management and video distribution solutions. With over 3,000 customers in 130+ countries, LiveU's technology is the solution of choice for global broadcasters, online media, news agencies and social media. For more information, visit www.liveu.tv, or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn or Instagram. Contacts: Joyce Essig (US) 201-742-5229 Joyce@liveu.tv Joss Armitage (Int'l) +44-7979-908-547 joss@jumppr.tv Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/893479/LiveU.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/267684/liveu_logo.jpg CANNES, FRANCE / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / According to Bloomberg, the U.S. House of Representatives on May 24, local time, at 351: Sixty-six votes passed a bill attributable to the annual Defense Policy Act, calling on President Trump not to weaken sanctions against ZTE. It also prohibits U.S. government agencies from using ZTE's manufacturing equipment and technology on national security grounds, as well as cooperation between the U.S. Department of Defense and Chinese suppliers.Domestic manufacturers of wireless communication equipment are also on the banned list.The proposal includes an additional proposal to prohibit the US federal government from purchasing video surveillance equipment supplied by Chinese manufacturers on the grounds of national security. Hikvison, a major domestic video surveillance company, is included in the proposal. In response to this, Hikvison issued a statement today, saying, "The proposal to prohibit the federal government from purchasing video surveillance equipment from Chinese-funded enterprises such as Hikvison is not based on facts and evidence, and the accusations of the sponsors are obviously subjective and biased." Wu Motong, a new generation actress, appeared on the red carpet for the 72nd anniversary of the Cannes Film Festival on May 15, wearing a wax-dyed light blue gradient dress to show off the red carpet, with a touch of girlhood in her fairy air and elegant and poetic dress layers; red headdresses, earrings and fans echoed with red lips, attracting extra eyes; the sleeve label of "mayor" on her arm earned eyeballs to carry the national customs to the end. In an interview with Phoenix other media, she expressed her support for Hikvison, which had recently been blacklisted by the United States: Hikvison is accused of being a commercial company, which sticks to its business responsibilities just like Huawei and ZTE, which also suffer from blacklist treatment. On the red carpet for the 72nd anniversary of the Cannes Film Festival, Wu Motong fulfilled her promise to attend in a batik dress of Danzhai. Under the magnesia lamp of the world, the beauty of Eastern women's gracefulness and Chinese traditional culture was presented, so that more people could understand the infinite charm of Danzhai batik and Chinese national culture. It is reported that Wu Motong has played Princess Zhaoning in Gujian Qitan II and Wu Shuang in New Xiaoshilang, and has performed well in popular TV dramas such as I am Dulala and The Road to Victory.She is expected to go farther and farther along the road of performing arts, and more actors are expected to join the ranks of bringing national culture to the world stage. 411671879@qq.com SOURCE: WanYu Media View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/546759/Well-known-Actress-Wu-Motong-Expressed-Her-Support-for-Huawei-Hikvision-was-Reported-by-Many-Domestic-Media Volta Finance Limited (VTA/VTAS) Notification of transactions by directors, persons discharging managerial responsibilities and persons closely associated with them NOT FOR RELEASE, DISTRIBUTION OR PUBLICATION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES ***** Guernsey, 28 May 2019 Pursuant to the announcement made on 5 April relating to changes to the payment of directors fees, Volta Finance Limited (the "Company" or "Volta") has today purchased 4,780 ordinary shares of no par value in the Company ("Ordinary Shares") at an average price of 6.98 per share. Each director receives 30% of his or her Director's fees for any year in the form of shares, which they are required to retain for a period of no less than one year from their respective date of issue. The shares will be issued to the Directors, who for the purposes of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 on Market Abuse ("MAR") are "persons discharging managerial responsibilities" (a "PDMR") Paul Meader, Chairman and a PDMR for the purposes of MAR, acquired 1,144 additional Ordinary Shares in the Company. Following the settlement of this transaction, Mr Meader & persons closely associated with Mr Meader will have an interest in 33,794 Ordinary Shares, representing 0.09% of the issued shares of the Company; Paul Varotsis, Director and a PDMR for the purposes of MAR, acquired 896 additional Ordinary Shares in the Company. Following the settlement of this transaction, Mr Varotsis will have an interest in 194,702 Ordinary Shares, representing 0.53% of the issued shares of the Company; Steve Le Page, Director and a PDMR for the purposes of MAR, acquired 1,005 additional Ordinary Shares in the Company. Following the settlement of this transaction, Mr Le Page will have an interest in 29,265 Ordinary Shares, representing 0.08% of the issued shares of the Company; Graham Harrison, Director and a PDMR for the purposes of MAR, acquired 896 additional Ordinary Shares in the Company. Following the settlement of this transaction, Mr Harrison will have an interest in 13,896 Ordinary Shares, representing 0.04% of the issued shares of the Company; Atosa Moini, Director and a PDMR for the purposes of MAR, acquired 839 additional Ordinary Shares in the Company. Following the settlement of this transaction, Ms Moini will have an interest in 6,052 Ordinary Shares, representing 0.02% of the issued shares of the Company; The notifications below, made in accordance with the requirements of MAR, provide further detail in relation to the above transactions: Details of the person discharging managerial responsibilities / person closely associated a) Paul Meader Chairman and Director b) Paul Varotsis Director c) Steve Le Page Director d) Graham Harrison Director e) Atosa Moini Director 2 Reason for the notification (a) Position/status Director (b) Initial notification/Amendment Initial notification 3 Details of the issuer, emission allowance market participant, auction platform, auctioneer or auction monitor (a) Name Volta Finance Limited (b) LEI 2138004N6QDNAZ2V3W80 4 Details of the transaction(s): section to be repeated for (i) each type of instrument; (ii) each type of transaction; (iii) each date; and (iv) each place where transactions have been conducted (a) Description of financial instrument, type of instrument Identification code Ordinary Shares GB00B1GHHH7 (b) Nature of the transaction Purchase and allocation of Ordinary Shares relation to the part-payment of Directors' fees for the quarter ended 30 April 2019 (c) Price(s) and volume(s) Price(s) Volume(s) 6.98 Total 4,780 (d) Aggregate information Aggregated volume Price a) Paul Meader Chairman and Director 1,144 6.98 b) Paul Varotsis Director 896 6.98 c) Steve Le Page Director 1,005 6.98 d) Graham Harrison Director 896 6.98 e) Atosa Moini Director 839 6.98 (e) Date of transaction 28 May 2019 (f) Place of transaction On-market - London For further information, please contact: Company Secretary and Portfolio Administrator BNP Paribas Securities Services S.C.A, Guernsey Branch guernsey.bp2s.volta.cosec@bnpparibas.com +44 (0) 1481 750 853 Corporate Broker Cenkos Securities plc Sapna Shah Andrew Worne +44 (0) 20 7397 8900 For the Investment Manager AXA Investment Managers Paris Serge Demay serge.demay@axa-im.com +33 (0) 1 44 45 84 47 ***** ABOUT VOLTA FINANCE LIMITED Volta Finance Limited is incorporated in Guernsey under The Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008 (as amended) and listed on Euronext Amsterdam and the London Stock Exchange's Main Market for listed securities. Volta's home member state for the purposes of the EU Transparency Directive is the Netherlands. As such, Volta is subject to regulation and supervision by the AFM, being the regulator for financial markets in the Netherlands. Volta's investment objectives are to preserve capital across the credit cycle and to provide a stable stream of income to its shareholders through dividends. Volta seeks to attain its investment objectives predominantly through diversified investments in structured finance assets. The assets that the Company may invest in either directly or indirectly include, but are not limited to: corporate credits; sovereign and quasi-sovereign debt; residential mortgage loans; and, automobile loans. The Company's approach to investment is through vehicles and arrangements that essentially provide leveraged exposure to portfolios of such underlying assets. The Company has appointed AXA Investment Managers Paris an investment management company with a division specialised in structured credit, for the investment management of all its assets. ***** ABOUT AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) is a multi-expert asset management company within the AXA Group, a global leader in financial protection and wealth management. AXA IM is one of the largest European-based asset managers with 739 investment professionals and 750 billion in assets under management as of the end of March 2019. ***** This press release is for information only and does not constitute an invitation or inducement to acquire shares in Volta Finance. Its circulation may be prohibited in certain jurisdictions and no recipient may circulate copies of this document in breach of such limitations or restrictions. This document is not an offer for sale of the securities referred to herein in the United States or to persons who are "U.S. persons" for purposes of Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or otherwise in circumstances where such offer would be restricted by applicable law. Such securities may not be sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration from the Securities Act. The company does not intend to register any portion of the offer of such securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of such securities in the United States. ***** This communication is only being distributed to and is only directed at (i) persons who are outside the United Kingdom or (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the "Order") or (iii) high net worth companies, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). The securities referred to herein are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. Past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance. ***** Attachment Madison Erhardt Rutland is a whole lot more colourful, thanks to the Uptown Rutland Business Association. Over the span of just five days, a giant wall mural has gone up on the side of the URBA building. ''We decided to join Montreal, Moncton, Vancouver and the other cities who embrace street art. Having this art in our community is a treat for locals young and old and will encourage tourists to visit Rutland,'' said executive director Laurel D'Andrea. ''The walls you see here today are the starter walls. We want to show the community whats in store in the coming months,'' D'Andrea added. URBA has planned for five other mural locations in Rutland: Lions Park on Gray Road public washroom Christman Plumbing on Rutland Road North Save More Pawn and Thrift Shop corner of Asher Road and Shepherd Road Christ Church at 160 Rutland Road Valley First Credit Union Artistic director and artist David James Doody says he's thrilled to see his artwork on the city. ''Having the opportunity to have a public work really gets that engagement and sharing factor up, and when it is something so fun like this, it's cool to see how it inspires others,'' he said. Elsewhere in the Okanagan, Vernon has had murals all over its downtown for decades. Paris, 28 May 2019, at 6:00 PM, Prodways Group announces the order by the Integrated Structure for Maintaining Land Equipment in operational condition (SIMMT) of two ProMaker P1000 3D printers in order to validate the benefits of 3D printing for manufacturing spare parts in real conditions. These two printers will equip the SIMMT which supports all Army units. They will be delivered by summer 2019. The first ProMaker P1000 printer will be containerized for deployment in external operations. This solution enables the production of spare parts on demand directly on the ground in full autonomy. The second 3D printer will equip the Tulle detachment of the 13th Material Support Base (BSMAT) which ensures operational support of the deployed additive manufacturing chain from France. Prodways Group will supply the materials and train the operators. Additive manufacturing is used in a growing number of applications in the defence sector, where it enables inventory reductions and ensures the availability of certain spare parts. This initial deployment with the Army could offer other opportunities within French and foreign Armed Forces (Army, Navy and Air Force), and also in the offshore sector. About Prodways Group Prodways Group is a specialist in industrial and professional 3D printing with a unique positioning as an integrated European player. The Group has developed right across the 3D printing value chain (software, machines, materials, parts & services) with a high value added technological industrial solution. Prodways Group offers a wide range of 3D printing systems and premium composite, hybrid and powder materials (SYSTEMS division). The company also manufactures and markets parts on demand, prototypes and small production run 3D printed items in plastic and metal (PRODUCTS division). The Group targets a significant number of sectors, from aeronautics to healthcare. Listed on Euronext Paris, the Group reported in 2018 revenue of 61 million. Prodways Group is a Groupe Gorge company. For further information: www.prodways-group.com Follow us and keep up with Prodways Group's latest news on Twitter! @Prodways CONTACTS INVESTOR CONTACTS Actus Finance - Anne-Pauline Petureaux Investor relations Tel: +33 (0)1 53 67 36 94/apetureaux@actus.fr PRESS CONTACTS Image 7 - Lauranne Guirlinger Press relations Tel: +33 (0)1 53 70 05 46 /lguirlinger@image7.fr Actus Finance - Manon Clairet Financial press relations Tel: +33 (0)1 53 67 36 73/mclairet@actus.fr DISCLAIMER Releases from the Prodways Group may contain forward-looking declarations with statements of objectives. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations of Prodways Group. Their realization, however, depends on known or unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or events to differ significantly from those previously anticipated. The risks and uncertainties that might affect the Group's future ability to achieve its targets are reiterated and presented in detail in our Annual financial report on Prodways Group's website (www.prodways-group.com). This list of risks, uncertainties and other factors is not exhaustive. Other unanticipated, unknown or unpredictable factors may also have significant negative effects on the achievement of our objectives. The current release and the information contained therein do not constitute an offer to sell or to subscribe, nor a solicitation for an order to purchase or subscribe to shares in Prodways Group or in any subsidiaries thereof listed in whatsoever country. ------------------------ Copyright Actusnews Wire Recevez gratuitement par email les prochains communiques de la societe en vous inscrivant sur www.actusnews.com Communique integral et original au format PDF:Telecharger le PDF Washington, D.C.--(Newsfile Corp. - May 28, 2019) - The Securities and Exchange Commission today charged investment adviser Stephen Brandon Anderson with defrauding clients by overcharging advisory fees of at least $367,000. According to the SEC's order, Anderson owned and operated River Source Wealth Management, LLC, a now-defunct registered investment adviser in North Carolina. River Source's primary revenue stream was customer advisory fees. Customer agreements provided that those fees would be based on each customer's assets under management. The SEC's order finds, however, that in 2015 and 2016, Anderson overcharged a majority of his clients. The amount and percentages of the overcharges varied but, in the aggregate, amounted to approximately 40% more than the agreed-upon maximum customer advisory fees. As described in the order, Anderson also misled his clients about the reason he transferred their assets from River Source's long-time asset custodian, falsely stating that it was his decision and that the separation was "amicable." In fact, as the order finds, the asset custodian ended the relationship with River Source after it noticed irregular billing practices and failed to receive sufficient supporting documentation from Anderson. Furthermore, the order finds that Anderson made material misstatements in reports filed with the Commission, including overstating River Source's assets under management by at least $34 million (18%) in 2015 and $61 million (35%) in 2016, and failed to implement required compliance policies and procedures. The order prohibits Anderson from acting in a supervisory or compliance capacity or from charging advisory fees without supervision for at least three years, and requires Anderson to provide notice of the SEC order to clients and prospective clients. "When advisors breach their duty to clients by misleading and overcharging them, they can expect the SEC will craft a package of remedies that will compensate harmed investors, provide additional safeguards for prospective investors, and deter similar conduct," said Carolyn M. Welshhans, Associate Director in SEC's Enforcement Division. The SEC's order finds that Anderson violated Sections 206(2) and 207 of the Investment Advisers Act, and aided and abetted and caused River Source's violations of the books and records and compliance provisions of the Advisers Act. In addition to the limitations and undertakings discussed above, Anderson agreed to a cease-and-desist order and a censure, and agreed to pay disgorgement and prejudgment interest of $405,381 and a $100,000 penalty. Payments made by Anderson pursuant to the order will be distributed to harmed investors through a Fair Fund. Anderson consented to the order without admitting or denying the findings. The SEC's investigation was conducted by Brian Vann and Daniel A. Weinstein with assistance from James Smith, Samara Ross and Jonathan Swankie, and the case was supervised by Brian O. Quinn and Ms. Welshhans. SmartMetric, Inc. (OTCQB: SMME) will be presenting its new biometric fingerprint activated credit card with the inbuilt ADVANTIS EMV Chip and banking operating system at the Secure Payments and ID Conference being held on June 19, 2019 in Madrid, Spain. "We are excited to be presenting our amazing new biometric card in association with ADVANTIS in Madrid on June 19 at the Secure Payments and ID Conference which is being attended by the leading banks in Europe. This will give us the opportunity to unveil our new biometric credit card that has been especially developed with the ADVANTIS credit card chip and payments system that is being used by 100 banks around the world," said today SmartMetric's President CEO, Chaya Hendrick. Chaya Hendrick, as a guest speaker at the conference, will be giving a presentation titled "BIOMETRIC CARD PAYMENTS: THE FUTURE IS NOW" on June 19, 2019 at 1:30pm. The conference will be attended by the leading banks in Europe along with the leading credit card manufacturers. The conference website is www.securepaymentsid.ifaes.com. ADVANTIS is operating in 3 Continents in 40 Countries and its Chip and Operating system is being used on over 1.3 BILLION credit cards. SMARTMETRIC is based in the USA with marketing and engineering in various parts of the World. SmartMetric has created a fingerprint scanner that fits inside a credit and debit card and is used to provide biometric protection for these cards. The card user simply touches a square sensor on the card's surface and in less than 0.25 seconds the card's internal fingerprint scanner reads the card user's fingerprint and if the fingerprint matches the card is immediately turned on. With instant biometric validation and card activation means that the SmartMetric biometric card technology provides seamless use by the card customer. By the time the credit/debit card user reaches across to insert the card in a reader or ATM the card has been biometrically authenticated and turned on. To view the SmartMetric Biometric Card please follow this link Video of the SmartMetric Biometric Card. To view the company website: www.smartmetric.com. Safe Harbor Statement: Forward-Looking Statements in this press release, which are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Also such forward-looking statements are within the meaning of that term in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Our actual results, performance or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "may," "could," "expect," "intend," "plan," "seek," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," "continue," "likely," "will," "would" and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by us and our management, are inherently uncertain. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, among others, if we are unable to access the capital necessary to fund current operations or implement our plans for growth; changes in the competitive environment in our industry and the markets where we operate; our ability to access the capital markets; and other risks discussed in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K, which filings are available from the SEC. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are made as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to update publicly any of these forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, new information or future events, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable laws. If we update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. Investors and security holders are urged to carefully review and consider each of SmartMetric Inc. public filings with the SEC, including but not limited to, if applicable, Annual Reports on Form 10-K, proxy statements, Current Reports on Form 8-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005699/en/ Contacts: SmartMetric, Inc. Chaya Hendrick President CEO 3960 Howard Hughes Parkway, Suite 500 Las Vegas, Nevada. 89169 USA Tel: +1.702.990.3687 ceo@smartmetric.com www.smartmetric.com USA DISTRIBUTOR INLAY (available as an inlay for card manufacturers) PROTEC Secure Card 80 Corbett Way Eatontown, NJ 07724, USA +1-732-542-0700 www.protecsecurecard.com Investor Relations Steffan Dalsgard Everest Corporate Advisors, Inc. +1.702.334.7791 +1.415.250.0105 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 28, 2019) - Upco International Inc. (CSE: UPCO) (OTCQB: UCCPF) (FSE: U06) ("Upco") is pleased to announce it has filed its consolidated financial statements and Management's Discussion and Analysis for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019. These documents can be accessed from the SEDAR web site at www.sedar.com. Upco reported revenues US$267,296 (2018 - US$709,372) and a net loss of US$275,462 (2018 - net income of US$10,514) for its first quarter ended March 31, 2019. Highlights for the quarter: Registered with the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC). FINTRAC is Canada's financial intelligence unit (FIU), providing financial intelligence and compliance functions necessary to ensure the safety of Canadians and the protection of the integrity of Canada's financial system. Signed its first agreement with SixthContinent Inc. www.sixthcontinent.com SixthContinent, with offices in San Francisco, Ca, and Milan, Italy, is the largest international platform for Shopping Cards. The company has agreements with more than 3000 leading brands (including Walmart, Apple, Amazon, Carrefour, and IKEA, Adidas and Shell Oil), and is fast becoming a major player in the expanding Social Commerce market. About Upco International Inc. Upco International Inc. is a cloud-based mobile service company which provides high-quality voice termination to a market driven by the growing activity in online communications and commerce. Upco is a licensed Global Telecom Carrier within the international VoIP (voice over IP) wholesale business. Upco has designed a software application for Apple iOS and Android, similar to SKYPE and WhatsApp. With the forthcoming addition of the Upco E-Wallet using Blockchain Payment Services, users will be able to: send invoices, approve payments, transfer international funds, convert international currencies, and track transfers and payments. The application will also allow vendors to securely share account information with their clients. Please visit www.upcointernational.com for further information. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Andrea Pagani, CEO and Director office@upcointernational.com 212-461-3676 Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking information or forward-looking statements (collectively "forward- looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward- looking information is typically identified by words such as: "will" "may" "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "development", "forthcoming", "potentially" and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. Upco cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by Upco is not a guarantee of future results or performance. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/45093 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 28, 2019) - Pure Energy Minerals Limited (TSXV: PE) (OTCQB: PEMIF) (the "Company" or "Pure Energy") is pleased to announce results of the 2019 Annual and Special Shareholder Meeting held on May 28, 2019 in Vancouver, Canada. The shareholders of the Company represented at the Meeting elected Frank Wells, Michael Dake, Patrick Highsmith, Mary Little and Tyler Durham as directors of the Company for the ensuing year. Further, shareholders also approved: (i) the reappointment of Wolridge Mahon LLP, Chartered Accountants, as the Company's independent auditor; (ii) the Stock Option Plan, and (iii) Special Business comprising the Earn-in agreement of the Company with Schlumberger Technology Corporation, all as described in the Information Circular prepared for the Meeting. Subsequent to the Meeting, the Board reappointed the following officers of the Company: Frank Wells, Interim CFO and Dianne Szigety, Corporate Secretary. The Company is very pleased to welcome Mr. Tyler Durham to the Board of Directors. Mr. Durham holds a Bachelors degree in engineering, and an MBA from University of Chicago, and brings fourteen years of experience with Schlumberger in diverse areas including international management. He joined Schlumberger Ventures in 2017. "Mr. Durham will be an exceptional addition to Pure Energy's Board of Directors and we look forward to working with him," stated Mary Little, director. About Pure Energy Minerals Limited Pure Energy Minerals is a lithium resource developer that is driven to become a low-cost supplier for the growing lithium battery industry. Pure Energy has consolidated a pre-eminent land position at its Clayton Valley Project in the Clayton Valley of central Nevada for the exploration and development of lithium resources, comprising 948 claims over 23,360 acres (9,450 hectares), representing the largest mineral land holdings in the valley. Pure Energy's Clayton Valley Project adjoins and surrounds on three sides the Silver Peak lithium brine mine operated by Albemarle Corporation. The Company has completed a Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") for the Clayton Valley Project (news releases of June 26, 2017 and April 5, 2018). Quality Assurance Walter Weinig, Professional Geologist and Qualified Person as designated by the Mining and Metallurgical Society of America (MMSA registration #01529QP), is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and supervised the preparation of the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for this news release. Mr. Weinig is not independent of the Company, as he is a former officer. On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Mary L. Little" Director, Pure Energy Minerals Ltd. CONTACT: Pure Energy Minerals Limited (www.pureenergyminerals.com) Email: info@pureenergyminerals.com Telephone - 604 608 6611 Cautionary Statements and Forward-Looking Information 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 may include future exploration and development on the CV Project. 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. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except as required by applicable laws. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The securities offered have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined under the U.S. Securities Act) absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION OR DISSEMINATION DIRECTLY, OR INDIRECTLY, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/45100 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 28, 2019) - Gravitas Financial Inc. (CSE: GFI) ("Gravitas") announced today that it has entered into an accommodation agreement dated May 28, 2019 with the majority holders of its secured debt. Under the accommodation agreement, the debt holders have agreed to continue to waive the payment of interest in accordance with and pursuant to the terms thereof. This waiver commenced with the interest payment due on March 31, 2019 and, as provided for under the accommodation agreement, will continue until the earlier of July 12, 2019 and such later date as is agreed to with the majority secured debt holders, unless earlier terminated under the accommodation agreement. Under the accommodation agreement, Gravitas has agreed to implement a sale and investment solicitation process. The purpose of this process is to seek proposals for a debt financing or refinancing and/or equity financing for a restructuring transaction, and/or a sale of all or a portion of the business and property of Gravitas, and to subsequently implement one or more non-overlapping transactions. The sale and investment solicitation process includes Gravitas' equity interests in various portfolio companies and in certain circumstances may include the assets of certain operating entities in which Gravitas has an equity interest. The process is being run with the assistance of FTI Capital Advisors - Canada ULC and FAAN Advisors Group Inc. and in consultation with the majority secured debt holders. A target date of June 21, 2019 has been set for the selection of the successful bids. Forward-looking Statements. Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking" statements. These statements relate to future events or our future performance. Forward-looking statements include the target date for the selection of the successful bids under the sale and investment solicitation process. All such statements involve substantial known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to vary from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, they should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and they will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, delays in receiving and assessing bids under the sale and investment solicitation process and that the sale and investment process will be unsuccessful. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions on the date of this news release, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and Gravitas disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities laws. ABOUT GRAVITAS FINANCIAL INC. Gravitas Financial Inc. is a platform company that creates businesses in key traditional and emerging sectors with strong industry partners. Our industry focus includes financial services, fintech, and Sino-Canadian mining. We leverage our unique platform to develop a continuous pipeline of new ventures with significant blue-sky potential. Our platform is complimented by strong investment research and digital investment media groups. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For further information, please contact: Vikas Ranjan, President, Gravitas Financial Inc. Email: vikas@gravitasfinancial.com Phone: 647-352-2666 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/45103 Washington, D.C.--(Newsfile Corp. - May 28, 2019) - The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that Erin E. Schneider has been named Director of the San Francisco Regional Office. Ms. Schneider joined the SEC staff in 2005 as a staff attorney in the San Francisco office. She was promoted to Assistant Regional Director of the Enforcement Division's Asset Management Unit in 2012 and then to Associate Regional Director of the San Francisco office in 2015. In her new role, Ms. Schneider will lead a staff of more than 125 enforcement attorneys, accountants, investigators, and compliance examiners involved in the investigation and prosecution of enforcement actions and the performance of compliance inspections in the Northern California and Pacific Northwest region. This region covers a unique, multi-faceted and dynamic set of market participants. During her career with the SEC, Ms. Schneider has investigated or supervised dozens of enforcement matters involving a variety of securities law violations, including cases against: Elon Musk, CEO and former Chairman of Silicon Valley-based Tesla Inc., for defrauding investors through a series of false and misleading tweets about a purported potential transaction to take Tesla private, and Tesla for failing to have required disclosure controls and procedures relating to Musk's tweets Theranos Inc., its founder and CEO Elizabeth Holmes, and its former President Ramesh "Sunny" Balwani for raising more than $700 million from investors through an allegedly elaborate, years-long fraud in which they exaggerated or made false statements about the company's technology, business, and financial performance Washington-based Barrett Business Services Inc. and its former CFO for allegedly manipulating accounting records to hide from investors the fact that certain expenses were increasing relative to revenue The former CEO of a Silicon Valley-based fiber optics company for insider trading in his company's stock by using secret brokerage accounts which generated more $2 million in illicit profits and losses avoided Burrill Capital Management and G. Steven Burrill for misappropriating more than $4 million from their San Francisco-based biotech venture capital fund "I am pleased that Erin has agreed to take on the important role of leading the talented and dedicated group of women and men in our San Francisco Regional Office," said SEC Chairman Jay Clayton. "For nearly 15 years, Erin has worked tirelessly with her colleagues in San Francisco and across the Commission to protect our markets and our Main Street investors. Her skills as a leader and extensive experience, including in issues relevant in the Silicon Valley region, will serve the Commission and investors well." "We are looking forward to working with Erin in her new position, and we are confident that under her leadership the San Francisco Regional Office will continue its track record of bringing complex enforcement actions," said Stephanie Avakian, Co-Director of the SEC's Division of Enforcement. "In more than 14 years at the SEC, Erin has handled a broad range of noteworthy cases," said Steven Peikin, Co-Director of the SEC's Division of Enforcement. "She has demonstrated strong leadership, technical expertise, and sound judgment, and we believe she will be an outstanding leader of our San Francisco Regional Office." "Through her time at the SEC, Erin has shown her commitment to protecting investors and tackling the difficult and complex issues in the financial markets," said Pete Driscoll, Director of the SEC's Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations. "The examination program will benefit greatly from Erin's vast legal and accounting expertise and her dynamic and collaborative leadership." Ms. Schneider said, "It's a privilege to have been selected to serve in this new role in San Francisco. Over my career at the SEC, I have been continually impressed by the commitment, integrity, and enthusiasm demonstrated by the San Francisco examination and enforcement staff every day. I look forward to continuing and building upon San Francisco's strong tradition of proactive and productive efforts to protect investors." Prior to joining the SEC staff, Ms. Schneider worked as a litigation associate in the Washington D.C. and San Francisco offices of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, and as an auditor at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. Ms. Schneider earned her bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of California at Berkeley in 1995, and her law degree cum laude from the University of California's Hastings College of the Law in 2001. Telecom czar Sunil Mittal-led Bharti Airtel's Africa unit plans to launch over $1 billion (around Rs 6,970 crore) IPO in London to help reduce debt New Delhi: Telecom czar Sunil Mittal-led Bharti Airtel's Africa unit plans to launch over $1 billion (around Rs 6,970 crore) IPO in London to help reduce debt. The firm plans to sell 25 percent of new shares of Airtel Africa in the proposed initial public offering (IPO) and is looking to trade on the main market of the London Stock Exchange using its premium listing segment, Bharti Airtel said in a regulatory filing. It is also considering a listing in Nigeria, the firm added. Airtel Africa last year raised $1.25 billion from six investors including Temasek Holdings Pte, SoftBank Group Corp and Warburg Pincus, giving it an equity value of about $4.4 billion. While the company did not divulge the amount it intends to raise from the proposed public offer, banking sources said it expects to raise over $1 billion. "In furtherance to our previous intimations in this regard, we wish to inform you that Airtel Africa, a subsidiary of the company, has announced its potential intention to undertake an initial public offering for listing its equity shares on London Stock Exchange...," Bharti Airtel said. It added that related documents have been submitted for approval to the UK Financial Conduct Authority. Airtel Africa -- which offers telecom services in 14 countries in Africa -- plans to use the proceeds from the issue of new shares, to reduce debt. It has about 98.9 million subscribers and 14.2 million mobile money customers, with Nigeria accounting for the largest single country subscriber base. As on December 31, 2018, Airtel Africa was the second largest mobile operator in Africa by a number of active subscribers. Airtel Africa recently reported its first full-year profit at $412 million for 2018-19, helped by higher data consumption and Airtel Money penetration. Its revenue increased 5.73 percent to $3,077 million in 2018-19 from $2,910 million a year ago. Commenting on the planned offer, Sunil Bharti Mittal Chairman of Airtel Africa, exuded confidence that the company is in a "strong position" to build its own capital market profile. "Since first investing in Africa almost nine years ago, we have well leveraged our expertise in emerging markets to deliver on a clearly-defined strategy to build Airtel Africa into a market leading mobile service provider, increasingly expanding beyond voice into data services and Airtel Money," Mittal said. He further added, "with the recent equity investments into the business by globally recognised long-term investors, we believe that Airtel Africa is in a strong position to build its own capital market profile, allowing others to join us in a real business success story". The new Board of Directors is committed to carry forward the strong legacy of corporate governance of the parent company, Mittal pointed out. Raghunath Mandava, CEO of Airtel Africa said the 14 countries that the company operates in offer strong economic growth potential with young and fast-growing populations, low customer and data penetration and inadequate banking infrastructure. These fast-growing markets provide the company a "great opportunity" to grow both telecom and payments businesses, he added. "Immediately following admission, the company intends to have a free float of at least 25 percent of the company's issued share capital and expects that it would be eligible for inclusion in the FTSE UK indices. "In addition, it is expected that up to a further 15 percent of the offer will be made available pursuant to the over-allotment option," the company said in its registration document. Amazon.com Inc and Walmart Incs Flipkart are unlikely to fully participate in an Indian antitrust bodys study of the e-commerce sector for fear of revealing trade secrets, two people with direct knowledge of the matter said New Delhi: Amazon.com Inc and Walmart Incs Flipkart are unlikely to fully participate in an Indian antitrust bodys study of the e-commerce sector for fear of revealing trade secrets, two people with direct knowledge of the matter said. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is engaged in what it describes as a fact-finding exercise aimed at better understanding the e-commerce sector, showed a document distributed to several e-commerce firms and reviewed by Reuters. The CCI document features 88 questions over 12 pages requesting recipients volunteer pricing strategies, product information and the identities of their biggest-selling vendors. Amazon and Flipkart are among Indias largest e-commerce companies so their participation in any such survey could carry significant weight. Yet the pair are unlikely to answer questions in full as doing so would involve disclosing commercially sensitive information, the two people told Reuters. This survey is very detailed, said one of the people, who declined to be identified as they were not authorised to speak publicly on the matter. Companies are worried because these are competitive, confidential things which are business critical. Amazon, Flipkart and the CCI did not respond to Reuters requests for comment. CCIs study comes about four months after the government implemented new rules regulating foreign investment in e-commerce, including barring the sale of products on their platforms from vendors in which they have an equity interest. The rules saw scores of products vanish from Amazons Indian website overnight, and shocked Walmart which just months earlier had bought the majority of Flipkart for $16 billion in the U.S. retailers biggest-ever acquisition. U.S. officials and e-commerce companies have protested the rules, which were widely seen as aimed at winning the support of small traders ahead of a general election. The incumbent government won the election this month by a landslide. To better understand the e-commerce sector, the CCI in its document asks companies basic details such as the number of employees, but asks online marketplace operators more sensitive questions such as how they charge vendors on their platforms. It also asks questions regarding contractual agreements struck between e-commerce companies and vendors. There is no indication of compulsory participation in the survey, with the CCI in the document saying it does not form a part of any investigation and/or inquiry in any of the proceedings pending before the watchdog. According to the latest data of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), FDI in 2017-18 was a record $44.85 billion New Delhi: Foreign direct investment (FDI) in India declined for the first time in the last six years in 2018-19, falling by 1 percent to $44.37 billion as overseas fund inflows subsided in telecom, pharma and other sectors, official data showed. According to the latest data of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), FDI in 2017-18 was a record $44.85 billion. Last time it was in 2012-13 when foreign inflows had registered a contraction of 36 percent to $22.42 billion compared to $35.12 billion in 2011-12. Since 2012-13, the inflows had been continuously growing and reached a record high in 2017-18. According to the data, FDI inflows in telecommunication, construction development, pharmaceuticals and power sectors declined significantly in 2018-19. Foreign direct investment in telecommunication dropped to $2.67 billion in 2018-19 from $6.21 billion in 2017-18, in construction development to $213 million ($540 million), in pharmaceuticals to $266 million ($1 billion) and in the power sector to $1.1 billion ($1.62 billion). Sectors that recorded a growth in FDI includes services ($9.15 billion), computer software and hardware ($6.41 billion), trading ($4.46 billion), and automobile ($2.62 billion). Further, Singapore has replaced Mauritius as the top source of foreign investment into India in the last fiscal, accounting for $16.22 billion inflows. India has received $8 billion FDI from Mauritius. The other major investors in the country includes Japan, the Netherlands, the UK, the US, Germany, Cyprus, the UAE and France. FDI is important as India would require huge investments in the coming years to overhaul its infrastructure sector to boost growth. Decline in foreign inflows could put pressure on the country's balance of payments and may also impact the value of the rupee. Photo: VPD Vancouver police have made an arrest in last weeks sexual assault in the citys east side. A 59-year-old Vancouver man was arrested Monday for the May 23 assault. The alleged incident took place as a woman in her twenties was waiting at a bus stop on 41st Avenue near Earles Street when an unknown man approached her and struck up a conversation. However, the woman left the bus stop after realizing she forgot something at home. She left the stop and walked south on Earles Street, realizing the man was following her. He caught up with her and struck up another conversation. He then allegedly followed her into her home where he attacked and sexually assaulted her. Vancouver police issued a public warning about the attack on Friday and on Saturday released images of the suspect, asking the public for help in identifying him. Numerous tips came in. Jessica Kerr / Vancouver Courier By Giulio Piovaccari and Laurence Frost MILAN/PARIS (Reuters) - Fiat Chrysler pitched a finely balanced merger of equals to Renault on Monday to tackle the costs of far-reaching technological and regulatory changes by creating the world's third-biggest automaker. If it goes ahead, the $35 billion-plus tie-up would alter the landscape for rivals including General Motors and Peugeot maker PSA Group, which recently held inconclusive talks with Fiat Chrysler (FCA), and could spur more deals By Giulio Piovaccari and Laurence Frost MILAN/PARIS (Reuters) - Fiat Chrysler pitched a finely balanced merger of equals to Renault on Monday to tackle the costs of far-reaching technological and regulatory changes by creating the world's third-biggest automaker. If it goes ahead, the $35 billion-plus tie-up would alter the landscape for rivals including General Motors and Peugeot maker PSA Group, which recently held inconclusive talks with Fiat Chrysler (FCA), and could spur more deals. Renault said it was studying the proposal from Italian-American FCA with interest, and considered it friendly. Shares in both companies jumped more than 10 percent as investors welcomed the prospect of an enlarged business capable of producing more than 8.7 million vehicles a year and aiming for 5 billion euros ($5.6 billion) in annual savings. It would rank third in the global auto industry behind Japan's Toyota and Germany's Volkswagen. But analysts also warned of big complications, including Renault's existing alliance with Nissan, the French state's role as Renault's largest shareholder and potential opposition from politicians and workers to any cutbacks. "The market will be careful with these synergy numbers as much has been promised before and there isnt a single merger of equals that has ever succeeded in autos," Evercore ISI analyst Arndt Ellinghorst said. With these sensitivities in mind, FCA proposed an all-share merger under a listed Dutch holding company. After a 2.5 billion euro dividend for existing FCA shareholders - giving a big upfront boost to the Agnelli family that controls 29% of FCA - investors in each firm would hold half of the new entity. The merged group would be chaired by Agnelli family scion John Elkann, sources familiar with the talks told Reuters, while Renault chairman Jean-Dominique Senard would likely become CEO. Renault's board will hold informal work sessions within days and likely decide next week whether to enter an agreement with FCA to proceed with merger talks, two sources said. Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini welcomed the merger proposal but said Rome may need to acquire a stake, balancing France's 15% Renault holding - which is set to be diluted to 7.5% of the combined group. A deal could also have profound repercussions for Renault's 20-year-old alliance with Nissan, already weakened by the crisis surrounding the arrest and ouster of former chairman Carlos Ghosn late last year. The Japanese carmaker has yet to comment on FCA's proposal. In a letter to employees seen by Reuters, FCA chief executive Mike Manley cautioned a merger with Renault could take more than a year to finalise. 'BOLD DECISIONS' A deal could help both companies address some of the shortcomings that have led their market valuations to lag major rivals, as well as the shift to electric and self-driving technologies amid tightening emissions regulations. FCA has a highly profitable businesses in North America with its RAM trucks and Jeep brand, but lost money last quarter in Europe, where most of its plants are running below 50% capacity and it faces a struggle with new emissions curbs. Renault, by contrast, was an early mover in electric cars, has relatively fuel-efficient engine technologies and a strong presence in emerging markets, but no U.S. business. A deal would do little, however, to address both firms' limited presence in China, the world's biggest auto market. It would also create the challenge of managing a large number of brands, from high-end Maseratis to budget Dacias. The huge cost of countering disruptive new entrants such as Tesla's electric cars or future autonomous vehicles from Uber and Google has pushed other automakers to collaborate, including Volkswagen and Ford. FCA-Renault, like almost every possible automotive pairing, has been studied intermittently for years by dealmakers. But the fractious relations between Ghosn and FCA's long-standing boss Sergio Marchionne made constructive talks impossible before Marchionne's sudden death last July, banking sources said. Renault shares were up 15% to 57.46 euros at 1320 GMT, while FCA's Milan-listed stock was up 11.3% at 12.75 euros. PSA, widely seen as an industry consolidator, was off 3%. PARIS AND ROME The French government, Renault's biggest shareholder, supports a merger with FCA in principle but will need to see more details, its main spokeswoman said. France will be "particularly vigilant regarding employment and industrial footprint," another Paris official said, adding any deal must safeguard Renault's alliance with Nissan, which recently rebuffed a merger proposal from its partner. Seeking to soothe concerns, FCA said the deal plans "are not predicated on plant closures, but would be achieved through more capital-efficient investment". The carmakers have given commitments to maintain industrial jobs and sites, one source said - leaving room for white-collar and engineering layoffs as well as some plant downsizing. Early areas for potential convergence include Renault's next electric car platform being launched at its Douai site in France, the source said, adding all of Renault's board members backed the decision to study FCA's proposal with the exception of the leftist CGT union, which abstained. In a sign of potential future tensions, the CGT demanded the French state retained a blocking stake in any merged group. Appealing to Nissan, which is 43.4%-owned by Renault, FCA said the Japanese carmaker would nominate a director to the 11-member board of the new company. Nissan and affiliate Mitsubishi would also benefit from 1 billion euros in cost and investment savings, it added. Decision-making by such a board is unlikely to be straightforward, some analysts warned. "We now have the French, the Italians, the Japanese and the Americans needing to find consensus on the board of a Dutch company, where the French state stands to lose its special status," Ellinghorst said. "This requires quite a bit of creativity." ($1 = 0.8922 euros) (Additional reporting by Pamela Barbaglia, Gilles Guillaume, Sudip Kar-Gupta, Edward Taylor and Norihiko Shirouzu; Editing by Georgina Prodhan/Mark Potter/Alexander Smith/Jane Merriman) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Hermeus caused more of turbulence when it said it obtained seed capital and investments from the private sector to make a plane with a cruising speed of over 5000 kph Aircraft manufacturers lost interest very swiftly in the concept of supersonic passenger planes around the turn of the century. The crash of Air France 4590 Concorde in July 2000, killing a hundred and thirteen people including four on the ground, shifted the focus onto large and distance options rather than speed and time. Also, with business class becoming the most lucrative option and comfort and communications creating the semblance of an office in the sky with connectivity the extra few hours begun not to matter. But now the race is on again with supersonic designs vying with hypersonic the difference being the first is anything after 1.2 Mach to 2.5 Mach while the latter is plus 5 Mach. Announcing its entry into the fray is the Atlanta based startup Hermeus Corporation planning to manufacture a Mach 5 passenger plane that would do the London-New York run in 90 minutes. Early this week Hermeus caused more of turbulence in this rarefied market segment when it submitted it had obtained seed capital and investments from the private sector to make a plane with a range of 4600 miles and a cruising speed of over 5000 kph. It would get you across the Atlantic cosseted in state of the art luxury for $3,000. At present, the 7-hour flight by subsonic wide-bodied aircraft was being channelled largely by the Japan Airlines and Virgin combine under the umbrella of Boom to create a supersonic plane by the mid-2020s that would cut the time to 3 hours 15 minutes. It contends that its 55 seater will be 30 times more efficient and 30 times quieter than the Concorde. A massive step forward came last year when General Electric announced that it had finalised the design for just such an SST programme thereby fast-tracking the return of speed travel. So far the only supersonic planes (SSTs) to take to the air are the Concorde and the Russian made Tu-144. But fifteen years after the comeback is on the cards. It is not just Boom who is in the running. Spike Aerospace is well on the way with its S512 18 seater that will replace bizjets by screaming across the skies at 1.6 Mach as compared to the 09 Mach of the fastest jets today. Spike projects 800 plus supersonics in the air by 2035. In direct competition is the Aerion Supersonic as2, a 12-seater business jet that has the capability of flying direct from New York to Sao Paulo and London to Beijing. It hopes to be in the air as early as 2023 with a test flight next year. Although Lockheed Martin is collaborating in this venture it is also working with Nasa on creating a quieter supersonic commercial plane called the X59 QueSST and plans to reconfigure the shape of the fixed-wing aircraft. So a decade and a half later the threat from these speedsters is becoming real again. The look-out notice has been served against people who allegedly siphoned funds or were involved in serious fraud and irregular transactions, sources said. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has reportedly suggested over 20 names against whom a look-out circular (LOC) has been issued, a media report said. Sources said the circular includes the name of Naresh Goyal, the chairman of the now-grounded Jet Airways. Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal was Saturday stopped from leaving the country due to a lookout circular issued by the Union Home Ministry, officials said. A senior government official told CNBC-TV18, that over 20 names have been suggested to the central Intelligence Bureau (IB). "The list is based on cases where investigations are pending and the government feels that there is a high possibility of these people running away from the country," the official added. On Saturday, Naresh Goyal, former chairman of Jet Airways Naresh Goyal and his wife Anita Goyal were denied permission to travel abroad by the immigration authority at Mumbai airport sources said. The couple was to travel by Dubai-bound Emirates flight EK 507 when the immigration authority denied them permission to fly, sources told PTI. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) recently made changes in the circular by including CEOs of PSBs in the list of officials who can make a request for issuance of LOCs to the ministry. Look-out circulars are issued by several authorities, including the Ministry of External Affairs, MCA, Income Tax Department and Enforcement Directorate, to keep a watch on arrival to and departure from India of both Indians and foreign nationals. The lookout notice has been served against people who allegedly siphoned funds or were involved in serious fraud and irregular transactions, sources said. Indicating a strict stance against economic offenders, the circular sent out to investigating and securities agencies says their "summer vacation needs to stop". People with knowledge of the developments said that the list has been prepared over time and will be revised and new names will be added if needed. In February, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had issued lookout notices against former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar, her husband Deepak Kochhar and Videocon Group managing director Venugopal Dhoot. The move was taken nearly a week after a case was registered against the Kochhars and Dhoot, sources told PTI. The move comes against the backdrop of defaults by Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi and thereafter, fleeing the country. Meanwhile, CMDs (chief managing director) of both public and private sector banks have also been empowered to inform law enforcement agencies if a notice needs to be served against any willful defaulter whom they suspect of trying to abscond from the country. In a few cases, the banks have also been asked to take custody of passports of such offenders. The government and the law enforcement agencies seem to have become proactive after receiving a lot of flak with economic offenders such as Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya fleeing the country in the past few years. --With inputs from agencies To give a perspective, of the 18 PSBs now, at least eight have gross NPAs above 15 percent of their total advances. This means Rs 15 out of every Rs 100 they have lent have gone bad. The government has no business to be in business, said Narendra Modi soon after his landslide victory in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Investors and analysts took these words as a big clue that the new government intends to exit public sector undertakings (PSUs) across. But, blame it on the political compulsions, the deeply messed up banking system, mainly state-run banks, or unfavourable market conditions, no significant headway was made on this promise. That, of course, with some exceptions when the governments favourite milch cow, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) was deployed to take over a critically ill IDBI Bank. Also, some of the zombie banks among the public sector banks (PSBs) were merged with a bigger bank. As Modi is set to begin his second term in office with an even bigger majority and less political resistance from a decimated Opposition, he has a better opportunity to do what he promised five years ago. At least in the public sector banking industry, there are quite a number of good reasons why Modi can think of selling each PSB to private parties which will help it get rid of the burden of capitalising these banks every year and ensure only the fittest survive. Reason one: A major part of the non-performing asset (NPA) clean-up process initiated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under former governor Raghuram Rajan is over. The banks have much cleaner balance sheets now except in agriculture/MSME portfolios. The uncertainty on the hidden NPAs was a big reason why investors hesitated to look at these banks. Nearly Rs 9 lakh crore additional NPAs have been dug out as part of this exercise. That is from around Rs 2 lakh crores in the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) era to around Rs 11 lakh crore now. This chunk of bad loans, which bankers happily evergreened in understanding with large borrowers, had to come out at some point. Two, of the 18 PSBs present, 16 have government holding over 70 percent as of end-March, 2019. In at least 12 of them, the government has over 80 percent holding and in six of them, it has over 90 percent stakeholding. These are Andhra Bank, Central Bank, Corporation Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Uco Bank and United Bank. There is no point for the government to hold such a majority stake in the banks. It isnt in that business. Bank Qtr end Govt stake (%) Gross NPAs in Rs cr Gross NPAs (%) CAR-Basel III Allahabad Bank Mar-19 92.0 28705 17.55 12.51 Andhra Bank Mar-19 87.8 28974 16.21 13.68 Bank of Baroda Mar-19 65.4 48233 9.61 13.42 Bank of India Mar-19 87.1 60661 15.84 14.19 Bank of Maha Mar-19 87.7 15324 16.40 11.86 Canara Bank Mar-19 70.6 39224 8.83 11.90 Central Bank Mar-19 91.2 32356 19.29 9.61 Corporation Bank Mar-19 93.5 20724 15.35 12.30 Indian Bank Mar-19 81.5 13353 7.11 13.21 IOB Mar-19 92.5 33398 21.97 10.21 Oriental Bank Mar-19 87.6 21717 12.66 12.73 PNB Dec-18 75.4 77733 16.33 10.52 Punjab & Sind Bank Mar-19 85.6 8606 11.83 10.93 SBI Mar-19 57.9 172750 7.53 12.72 Syndicate Bank Mar-19 78.5 24680 11.37 14.23 UCO Bank Mar-19 93.3 29888 25.00 10.70 Union Bank Mar-19 74.3 48729 14.98 11.78 United Bank Mar-19 96.8 12053 16.48 13.00 Source: CapitalinePlus Three, due to the high NPA levels in many PSBs, which is a logical consequence of the bad loan clean-up process would mean, the government will now have to begin sending a substantially higher chunk of money to fill their widening funding gaps. The present schedule of capital infusion wont suffice to go ahead. The question is, will the government has enough means to satisfy the capital hunger of post-clean-up period PSBs, certainly not. A better option is to let them go to private hands. To give a perspective, of the 18 PSBs now, at least ten have gross NPAs above 15 percent of their total advances. This means Rs 15 out of every Rs 100 they have lent have gone bad. Out of this one bankUco Bank has GNPA at 25 percent and Indian Overseas Bank has 21.97 percent GNPAs. Under the current norms, banks need to set aside money in the form of provisions to cover such problematic loans. Four, One major resistance factor in the state-run banks against the privatisation of government banks the powerful trade unions are relatively weaker now post the decimation of the Opposition in the 2019 general polls. If the government takes a step forward and assures these trade unions of the potential job losses, there are better chances for a consensus. Five, privatisation of government banks doesnt mean the government will have to give away control over these institutions for the roll-out of social sector programmes for which these entities have played a crucial role during the Jan Dhan launch. Also, the government can keep the majority stake in 3-4 large PSBs such as SBI, PNB, BoB and Canara Bank letting go of the rest. The weaker and inefficient ones can be sold off. Six, the ongoing amalgamation drive among PSBs the process of merging weaker ones with stronger ones wouldnt make much sense since the problem is only going from one hand to the other. The fundamental inefficiencies that led to the current situation of the PSBs remain. Only outright privatisation will help. Seven, the market conditions are now favourable compared with earlier years. There is a renewed enthusiasm post the return of the Modi government and hopefully there will be better investor response for the PSB privatisation proposals. During Modi's first term, he did the mistake of not using the market euphoria to kick start the disinvestment. When the government was finally ready for that, it was too late. Modi has both the political will and the right conditions now to begin the process. Without this, the gains of painful NPA clean-up process will prove to be of no help PSBs will eventually walk into another round of NPA mess. (Data support by Kishor Kadam) Shares of Manpasand Beverages Tuesday hit the lower circuit limit for the second day in a row as some of the officials of the company have been taken under judicial custody following search and seizure proceedings carried out at various premises of the company by GST officials New Delhi: Shares of Manpasand Beverages Tuesday hit the lower circuit limit for the second day in a row as some of the officials of the company have been taken under judicial custody following search and seizure proceedings carried out at various premises of the company by GST officials. On the BSE, shares of the company plunged 20 percent to lock in at its lower circuit limit of Rs 70.40. At the National Stock Exchange (NSE), the scrip tumbled 19.98 percent to touch the lower circuit of Rs 70.50. On Monday, the scrip dived 20 percent to close at Rs 88 on the BSE. "Mr. Abhishek Singh, Whole Time Director, Mr. Paresh Thakkar, Chief Financial Officer of the company and Mr. Harshvardhan Singh are under judicial custody of Authority on yesterday, i.e., 24 May, 2019. The company is contesting these allegations in accordance with the due process of law," it had said in a regulatory filing on Saturday. Meanwhile, the company's independent directors Bharat Vyas and Milind Babar, along with director Dhruv Agrawal and non-executive director Vishal Sood have tendered their resignation. The company told BSE that Vyas resigned due to "pre-occupation", while the resignation of others is "mainly due to GST search." On Monday, the company also informed the bourses about the cancellation of the board meeting which was scheduled to be held on 28 May "due to unavoidable circumstances and also due to want of quorum during the board meeting." Following the unfortunate death of 16 people due to consumption of spurious liquor, Uttar Pradesh police have arrested three people while the state government has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh each for the deceased. Lucknow: Following the unfortunate death of 16 people due to consumption of spurious liquor, Uttar Pradesh police have arrested three people while the state government has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh each for the deceased. The police have arrested three people including the salesman of the country-made liquor shop from where the affected people had purchased liquor. Search for the owner is still on. Police are also conducting raids at several places to seize the stock of liquor brands which were allegedly consumed by the victims. The state government has also formed a three-member committee headed by Uttar Pradesh Excise Commissioner to probe the incident. The committee has been asked to submit its report to the government within 48 hours. On the orders of the administration, District Excise Officer, Excise Inspector, Ramnagar Circle Officer, and Station House Officer have been suspended with immediate effect. Among the deceased are also four members of the same family. Most of the affected individuals hail from Raniganj village in the Ramnagar region of Barabanki district. The matter came to light after Lekhpal Sadar Badel claimed that he got information about eight people having died in Ramnagar after consuming illicit liquor. The people in Raniganj and adjoining villages were rushed to Ramnagar Community Health Centre (CHC) from where most of them were referred to Lucknow's Trauma Centre. The Narendra Modi Government Mark 2.0 Plus a suitable appellation given its huge majority in a second term has decided to invite BIMSTEC leaders for the swearing-in ceremony on 30 May. BIMSTEC or 'Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Cooperation' is actually a Neighbourhood-Plus, since it includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and adds Myanmar and Thailand So the word is out. The Narendra Modi Government Mark 2.0 Plus a suitable appellation given its huge majority in a second term has decided to invite BIMSTEC leaders for the swearing-in ceremony on 30 May. BIMSTEC or 'Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Cooperation' is actually a Neighbourhood-Plus, since it includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and adds Myanmar and Thailand. There's an obvious minus here, but then SAARC has come to a standstill given Pakistani obduracy on almost all issues including the core issue for this government which is connectivity. The invite also includes Mauritius and Kyrgyzstan, both of whom are central to Indias ambitions. Modi's vision of Indian Ocean cooperation was after all outlined in Mauritius in 2015 and was followed by some brisk cooperation including the supply of coast guard vessels. As for Bishkek, a long-sought Central Asia Summit is to be held in June. BIMSTEC numbers are impressive. The grouping includes some 22 percent of the worlds population and more importantly has a combined GDP of more than $3 trillion. Not that this helped much. The grouping was burdened from the start in 1997 with more issues than it could possibly handle, with fourteen working groups and a rather less-than-evident headquarters in Dhaka. With such a heavy burden, it seemed to lose heart altogether and no meeting was held at summit level for nearly 6 years till 2014. This multiplicity of issues was not accidental but served to underline the very different priority areas of each. Bangladesh is the lead country for trade and investment, but also is trying to introduce climate change. Myanmar is the leader for energy and agriculture, and India is leading in transport and communications, as also counter-terrorism and transnational crime. In recent times, both issues are being highlighted. The first Modi government (2014-2019) seemed to have looked over this grouping carefully and decided it was after all a useful body provided it got rid of the flab. The BIMSTEC Transport and Connectivity Working Group (BTCWG) was launched in that year, and its terms of reference were finalised. The 2018 summit focused on institutional reform with 13 of its 18 points aimed at strengthening institutional arrangement to actually get the grouping off the ground. Just one MoU was signed on Grid Interconnection with a resolve to go ahead with a Coastal Shipping Agreement and a Motor Vehicles Agreement. These are not yet operationalised, with Thailand objecting to various aspects of the MVA, but it's there. A customs agreement is expected to be signed, and the Asian Development Bank is to provide a new Master Plan for connectivity after an earlier one languished for want of attention. An ambitious military exercise near Pune was also pointedly ignored by Nepal, probably under the influence of another powerful neighbour. Nepal sent only its Ambassador to the NSA meeting in Dhaka. So, on the face of it, the grouping is still floundering, even while India pushes ahead on a bilateral mode with each, particularly Myanmar and Bangladesh on land corridors, coastal shipping and customs. Myanmar's Sitwe port is vital, as also a series of rail and road links with Bangladesh. So with this state of BIMSTEC, why invite them at all? First, with a strong economy which is growing, and common borders with five of six member states, India needs to expand its trade and investment footprint rapidly. Business studies put the trade potential between members at $250 billion, as against the existing figures of about $45 billion. Trade is important to all members, including India, who accounts for about 50 percent of the trade. This can increase only if connectivity bottlenecks are removed. Look forward to the proposed BIMSTEC Development Fund soon. Security reasons are obvious. If India doesnt go the mile, China will. The Bay of Bengal is vital, nothing less, and a cautious engagement in less than central areas like coastal security could provide the first rim of a possible security architecture. It's not going to be easy. Countries like Nepal will remain skittish. But the sheer strength of the new government may push tentative engagements forward. After all, politicians like everyone else, like to move quickly when they see a five-year green light. It may not be full speed ahead but expect some cautious hand-clasping. The first step towards redemption, therefore, for the Congress is to acknowledge and internalise that this disaster is of Rahul Gandhi's own makin Rahul Gandhi's 'tragic hero' act deserves no sympathy; Congress needs honest assessment if it wants to be politically relevant The first step towards redemption for the Congress is to acknowledge and internalise that the party's poll disaster is of Rahul Gandhi's own making. This is easier said than done for a family enterprise. No amount of deflection from this truth may work. If the Congress tries to shield Rahul from criticism and pretends as if everyone else is at fault, the paradox quoted above will eventually obliterate the party as we know it. Narendra Modi 2.0: Why landslide mandate, right conditions make it perfect time for govt to kick-start weak PSBs sell-off As Narendra Modi is set to begin his second term in office with an even bigger majority and less political resistance from a decimated Opposition, he has a better opportunity to do what he promised five years ago. At least in the public sector banking industry, there are quite a number of good reasons why Modi can think of selling each PSB to private parties which will help it get rid of the burden of capitalising these banks every year and ensure only the fittest survive. Payal Tadvi's suicide exposes how casteism dehumanises doctors who study to give care and stains their education Ragging is only the highlight of the full-on dehumanised medical college experience. Modern medicine and medical education around the world is highly alienating and needs a permanent mirror held up to it to show it its power-hungry face. But in India, on one hand we have a perfect storm of gender, caste and class that produces the majority of our doctors French Open 2019: Caroline Wozniackis early exit questions the effectiveness of her grinding style of play Caroline Wozniacki is just a year and a half removed from her breakthrough Grand Slam win at the Australian Open, but it feels much longer than that. While this loss is not a disaster, it is one more in a series of setbacks dating back to the start of 2019 Wozniacki is just 9-8 on the year and has reached the only quarter-final (at Charleston) so far. Alpa Shah on 'Nightmarch', her Orwell Prize-longlisted account of journeying into Indias Naxal heartland Alpa Shah, a professor of anthropology at the London School of Economics, trekked with a Naxal platoon through a 250-kilometre-long stretch of the troubled belt in 2010. Unarmed, dressed in an olive-green guerrilla uniform, the writer was the only woman in the unit, but disguised as a man. Hopefully, one of the outcomes of Nightmarch being longlisted will be that many more people will come to understand the story of Indias Adivasis and the Naxalites who have lived amidst them, the anthropologist said. The government Sunday said reports on the deteriorating health of outgoing Finance Minister Arun Jaitley are false and baseless, and media should stay clear of rumour mongering. New Delhi: The government Sunday said reports on the deteriorating health of outgoing Finance Minister Arun Jaitley are false and baseless, and media should stay clear of rumour mongering. Amid speculations on the state of Jaitley's health, government spokesperson Sitanshu Kar took to Twitter to clear the air. "Reports in a section of media regarding Union Minister Shri Arun Jaitley's health condition are false and baseless. Media is advised to stay clear of rumour mongering," he tweeted. While Jaitley remained unreachable despite several attempts, his office said he is resting at home. Sources aware of his condition had on Friday stated that Jaitley is unlikely to be part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Cabinet in the BJP government's second term due to his ill health, which may require him to travel to either the UK or the US for treatment. Jaitley, 66, has become "very weak", they had said. He was admitted to AIIMS last week to undergo tests and treatment for an undisclosed illness and was discharged on Thursday but did not attend celebrations at BJP headquarters that evening after the party's emphatic victory in general elections. Jaitley's college friend and media baron Rajat Sharma took to Twitter to dispel rumours. "Everyone is discussing my friend @arunjaitley's health, some out of genuine concern and some for loose talk. Let me share with you that I met him last evening, he is recovering well and is working behind the scenes. Friends and family have convinced him to stay away from public interaction to avoid infection. I am glad he has finally agreed." Rajya Sabha MP Swapan Dasgupta tweeted that he met Jaitley Sunday afternoon and presented a copy of his book to him. After meeting him, Dasgupta tweeted, "Questions about @arunjaitley health understandable. He is recovering from a bout of chemo. But he is still in terrific form and his wit is firmly intact. Needs a little rest to get back his strength. Dropped in to @arunjaitley this afternoon to brief him on W. Bengal and present him a copy of my book. pic.twitter.com/wZNc4IYffh Swapan Dasgupta (@swapan55) May 26, 2019 Hours later Dasgupta, however, deleted the tweet and posted a series of fresh tweets along with a picture of himself with Jaitley. Correcting earlier tweet: Questions about @arunjaitley health understandable. He is recovering from a bout of heavy medication. But he is still in terrific form and his wit is firmly intact. Needs a little rest to get back his strength. All our good wishes, he posted on Twitter. "Actually he is off all medication now. Just recovering his strength and working as usual. He is still meeting officials, Dasgupta added. Meanwhile, Reserve Bank governor Shaktikanta Das Sunday called on Jaitley. "Had a courtesy meeting with Hon'ble Union Minister @arunjaitley this evening," Das tweeted while posting a picture of the meeting. Union minister Suresh Prabhu also tweeted, "We all wish @arunjaitley a speedy recovery." Had a courtesy meeting with Honble Union Minister @arunjaitley this evening. pic.twitter.com/Kmq7qkBaCA Shaktikanta Das (@DasShaktikanta) May 26, 2019 Doctors treating Jaitley have advised him to go to the UK or the US for treatment, sources said. Jaitley, whose health has been on a decline ever since he underwent a kidney transplant in May last year, will take a call in the next few days on the issue. He has not attended office for the last three weeks and has rarely been seen in public. He, however, has been writing blogs and tweeted on Modi's victory Thursday. He neither attended the Cabinet meeting called Friday that recommended dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha, nor the Saturday meeting of the BJP parliamentary party that elected Modi as its leader. Sources said that he, however, met all the five secretaries in his ministries at his residence on Friday in what was described as a routine meeting. A lawyer by profession, he has been the most important leader in Modi's Cabinet and has often acted as the chief troubleshooter for the government. He had undergone surgery in the US on 22 January for a reported soft tissue cancer in his left leg, an illness that deprived him from presenting the Modi government's sixth and final budget of its current term. Railway and Coal minister Piyush Goyal was the stand-in finance minister who presented the interim budget for 2019-20. Jaitley had returned to India on 9 February after undergoing skin grafting. He is believed to have undergone some kind of a medical procedure again when he last month visited the US to attend the IMF-World Bank Group Spring Meetings. Jaitley had undergone renal transplant on 14 May last year at AIIMS, New Delhi, with Goyal filling in for him at that time too. Jaitley, who had stopped attending office since early April 2018, was back in the finance ministry on 23 August, 2018. Earlier in September 2014, he underwent bariatric surgery to correct the weight he had gained because of a long-standing diabetic condition. The Gurugram police on Tuesday said there was no mention of 'Jai Sri Ram' and 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' in the FIR filed in a case where a Muslim man was allegedly attacked for wearing a traditional skull cap while he was returning home after offering prayers at a mosque in Sadar Bazaar area here. Gurugram: The Gurugram police on Tuesday said there was no mention of 'Jai Sri Ram' and 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' in the FIR filed in a case where a Muslim man was allegedly attacked for wearing a traditional skull cap while he was returning home after offering prayers at a mosque in Sadar Bazaar area here. Addressing a press conference in Gurugram, Commissioner of Police Muhammad Akil appealed people not to sensationalise the incident and said: "It is a criminal incident which has no religion. Also, there was no mention of slogans like 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' and 'Jai Sri Ram'. So far no fringe group has claimed the responsibility of the attack. It appears like a torture case." This comes in contradiction to victim Mohammad Barkat Alam's claim. He had alleged that he was asked to chant 'Jai Shri Ram' and 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' by five to six men who cornered him on 25 May and hurled abuses. He had also claimed that the men abused him saying nobody was allowed to wear a skullcap in the area and one of them slapped him. The police commissioner said Barkat sustained minor injuries in the incident and he has been examined by the doctors. Akil quoted Barkat's statement, saying that he was chased by two men, who asked him to remove his cap stating that he cannot wear a skullcap in the area. "We have received a CCTV footage of the incident, which shows that one removed Barkat's cap from his head while the main culprit threw something at him. We are trying to identify men seen in the footage," the police commissioner said. An FIR has been registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code. Gurugram police has formed various teams to investigate the matter. Photo: YLW Some of the continents top airport executives will be gathering in Kelowna later this week. Airports Canada 2019 is a national forum held to discuss the issues that affect the 140 million passengers who use Canadas airports every year. The event, which is being conducted by the Canadian Airports Council, will be held on Wednesday and Thursday at the Delta Grand Okanagan hotel. More than 200 senior airport executives from across North America are expected to attend the conference, which will also feature a media roundtable discussion on Thursday. Some of the topics that will be up for discussion are how the large economic footprint of airports benefits all Canadians, how airports work with governments, airlines and industry partners to enhance the traveller experience, and how and why Canadas airports are working to reignite Canadians love of air travel. Kelowna International Airport director Sam Samaddar is also the chair of the CAC, which handles virtually all of the nations air cargo and international passenger traffic, and 90 per cent of domestic passenger traffic. Eleven police personnel were injured in an Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) blast triggered in the wee hours of Tuesday morning in Kuchai area of Saraikella. Among the injured, 8 personnel are of CoBRA while 3 of Jharkhand Police. Eleven personnel of the CRPF and Jharkhand Police were injured in an Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) blast triggered early on Tuesday in Kuchai area of the Seraikela Kharsawan district in Jharkhand. The blast took place at around 5 am when a joint team of the CRPF's special jungle warfare unit, 209 CoBRA battalion and, the state police was carrying out an anti-Naxal operation in the forests, PTI reported. Among the injured, 8 personnel are of CoBRA while 3 of Jharkhand Police, ANI reported. All the injured were airlifted to Ranchi for treatment and three are reported to be critical. According to reports, the IED is suspected to have been buried under a dirt track. After the blast, the Maoists fired at the security personnel, who then fired in return. However, the Maoists managed to escape from the area, which has now been cordoned off. According to sources, Maoists have been active in this area for quite some time and have attacked police personnel before as well. CPI (Maoist) supremo Nambala Keshav Rao alias Basavaraj had arranged a meeting in Jharkhand to strengthen the organisation in this region and given the responsibility to Patiram Manjhi alias Anal who has a prize money of Rs 25 lakh on his head and is currently camping in the area with two other members of the organisation Maharaj Pramanik and Amit Munda who have a reward of Rs 15 lakh and Rs 10 lack each. The same group was reportedly involved in the attack on police personnel on 21 May in this area, two days after the Lok Sabha election got over. Two SAP personnel were injured in the encounter with Maoists after the latter opened fire on the security personnel when they were patrolling the Naxal-affected areas under the Kharswan Police station, a PTI report said. Kerala DHSE Plus One Result 2019 updates: Students can check their scores on the official website keralaresults.nic.in. To log in, enter your roll number and hit 'Submit'. Auto refresh feeds The Directorate of Higher Secondary Education (DHSE) is expected to declare the Kerala Plus One or Class 11 results today at 11 am. Students can check the official websites keralaresults.nic.in and dhsekerala.gov.in . Kerala Plus One results to be declared today Step 4: Results will be displayed on the screen Step 2: Click on the link 'DHSE results' on the homepage Steps to check the Kerala DHSE Plus One or Class 11 Results 2019: Almost four lakh students appeared for the Kerala board's Class 11 examination. The Kerala DHSE conducted the exam from 6 March to 27 March, 2019. However, since around 5 lakh students will be checking the official websites for their scores, they could be unresponsive or slow. In case this happens, students can visit alternative websites like examresults.net and indiaresults.com to check their scores. Students who appeared for the Class 11 exams can check their scores on the official websites keralaresults.nic.in and dhsekerala.gov.in . Here are the official and alternative websites to check for Kerala Class 11 results: Students can also log on to the official websites for additional results-related information once the scores are declared. The Kerala Plus One or Class 11 results are likely to be declared by the Directorate of Higher Secondary Education (DHSE) today (Tuesday, 28 May) at 11 am. Students who appeared for the Class 11 exams can check their scores on the official websites keralaresults.nic.in and dhsekerala.gov.in . The Kerala board has also enabled SMS facilities for students to check their Class 11 results, which are likely to be declared any time now. Type KERALA11REGISTRATION NUMBER and send it to 56263. The Class 11 or Plus One exam results have been declared on the official websites. Students can log in with admit card details to check their scores. Step 4: Results will be displayed on the screen Step 2: Click on the link 'DHSE results' on the homepage Steps to check the Kerala DHSE Plus One or Class 11 Results 2019: Students are advised to keep their admit card ready as Kerala board has declared the Class 11 result. Students can also check the official websites for additional result-related information. Students can check their scores on the official website keralaresults.nic.in . To log in, enter your roll number and hit 'Submit'. Almost four lakh students appeared for the Kerala board's Class 11 examination. The Kerala DHSE conducted the exam from 6 March to 27 March, 2019. However, since around 5 lakh students will be checking the official websites for their scores, they could be unresponsive or slow. In case this happens, students can visit alternative websites like examresults.net and indiaresults.com to check their scores. Students who appeared for the Class 11 exams can check their scores on the official websites keralaresults.nic.in and dhsekerala.gov.in . Here are the official and alternative websites to check for Kerala Class 11 results: Students can also log on to the official websites for additional results-related information once the scores are declared. The Kerala Plus One or Class 11 results are likely to be declared by the Directorate of Higher Secondary Education (DHSE) today (Tuesday, 28 May) at 11 am. Students who appeared for the Class 11 exams can check their scores on the official websites keralaresults.nic.in and dhsekerala.gov.in . The Kerala board has also enabled SMS facilities for students to check their Class 11 results, which are likely to be declared any time now. Type KERALA11REGISTRATION NUMBER and send it to 56263. The Class 11 or Plus One exam results have been declared on the official websites. Students can log in with admit card details to check their scores. Step 4: Results will be displayed on the screen Step 2: Click on the link 'DHSE results' on the homepage Steps to check the Kerala DHSE Plus One or Class 11 Results 2019: Students are advised to keep their admit card ready as Kerala board has declared the Class 11 result. Students can also check the official websites for additional result-related information. Students can check their scores on the official website keralaresults.nic.in . To log in, enter your roll number and hit 'Submit'. Kerala DHSE Class 11 Plus One Result 2019 Date and Time Latest Updates: Students can check their scores on the official website keralaresults.nic.in. To log in, enter your roll number and hit 'Submit'. Students are advised to keep their admit card ready as Kerala board has declared the Class 11 result. Students can also check the official websites for additional result-related information. The Kerala board has declared the Class 11 or Plus One exam results on the official websites keralaresults.nic.in and dhsekerala.gov.in. The Kerala Plus One or Class 11 results are likely to be declared by the Directorate of Higher Secondary Education (DHSE) today (Tuesday, 28 May) at 11 am. Students who appeared for the Class 11 exams can check their scores on the official websites keralaresults.nic.in and dhsekerala.gov.in. Students can also log on to the official websites for additional results-related information once the scores are declared. Students who appeared for the Class 11 exams can check their scores on the official websites keralaresults.nic.in and dhsekerala.gov.in. However, since around 5 lakh students will be checking the official websites for their scores, they could be unresponsive or slow. In case this happens, students can visit alternative websites like examresults.net and indiaresults.com to check their scores. The Directorate of Higher Secondary Education (DHSE) is expected to declare the Kerala Plus One or Class 11 results today (Tuesday, 28 May) at 11 am. Students who appeared for the Class 11 exams of the Kerala board can check their scores on the official websites keralaresults.nic.in and dhsekerala.gov.in. Steps to check the Kerala DHSE Plus One or Class 11 Results 2019: Step 1: Visit the official website of Kerala DHSE dhsekerala.gov.in Step 2: Click on the link 'DHSE results' on the homepage Step 3: Enter your roll number and date of birth Step 4: Results will be displayed on the screen Step 5: Download the results for future reference The plus one exams were held in March along with the Kerala Plus Two examinations. Over 4 lakh students had registered for the Plus One exams this year. Following the trend of 2018, DHSE has delayed declaring the 2019 Plus One results. The Kerala board had declared the results for Plus Two exams on 8 May, in which 84.33 percent students had passed. In 2018, around 3.69 lakh candidates had appeared for the DHSE Kerala Plus Two exams, and the overall pass percentage was 83.75 percent. Meanwhile, DHSE Kerala released the Plus One first allotment list for admissions on 24 May. Students who passed in the Kerala SSLC Class 10 exams are eligible for Plus One admissions. While menstruation itself continues to be a taboo subject, unhygienic use and disposal of sanitary pads especially in metropolitan cities like Chennai is slowly exacting a toll on not only the environment but also human lives. Kannimozhi is a sanitation worker at a swish apartment complex in Egmore, the heart of Chennai. One of the items she regularly comes into contact with, during the course of her work, are unwrapped sanitary napkins, disposed by the residents of the complex. Kannimozhi and her three colleagues work without gloves or any other protection, collecting unsegregated waste with their bare hands. The apartment management has made it mandatory for us to wear an overcoat but haven't given us gloves, Kannimozhi said, dumping the collected waste into a nearby Corporation dustbin. She is just one of the thousands who come in contact with such mindlessly discarded waste proving that awareness regarding menstrual hygiene and sanitation needs to be radically improved in India. Addressing menstrual waste disposal It is imperative to address issues such as menstrual hygiene and sanitation in light of the associated health and environmental hazards. Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed on 28 May, is dedicated to raising concerns regarding menstrual sanitation and hygiene. But while menstruation itself continues to be a taboo subject, unhygienic use and disposal of sanitary pads especially in metropolitan cities like Chennai is slowly exacting a toll on not only the environment but also human lives. According to 2019 data available with the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Government of India, 121 million women in the country use sanitary napkins; that's one billion pads per month, 12 billion a year. Items such as sanitary napkins are classified under non-compostable waste; it takes a maximum of 800 years for a single pad to decompose. Chennai Corporation data states that 5,400 metric tonnes of waste is collected (annually) from residential areas including sanitary waste such as menstrual pads and diapers. Incorrect disposal adds to the problem, with sanitary napkins dumped unsegregated along with other waste, or flushed down the toilet, resulting in choked sewage lines. In either case, it is sanitation workers who must face the consequences. Plight of sanitation workers In Pulianthope, Chennai, members of around 1,900 Dalit families hold jobs as sanitation workers associated with private or government institutions. These workers are responsible for cleaning sewage lines, collecting waste from Corporation bins and segregating it. GR Raghavan, a sanitation worker since 1982, has contracted severe respiratory problems. He is also plagued by a persistent cough and other physical ailments. His workdays spanned nine-hour shifts, lasting from 8 am to 5 pm, all for Rs 800 a day. Sewage workers like Raghavan were given little to no protection gear by the authorities; he says clearing out foul-smelling sewage lines, blocked by sanitary napkins, has led to skin conditions. My weight has reduced from 80 kg to 50 kg, and I have acquired various skin diseases while trying to clean blocked sewage lines, Raghavan said. Among the women, there is reluctance to use cloth pads. Parvathy, a resident and member of the locality's self-help group group in the locality, said, of the preference for store-bought sanitary napkins: If we use cloth pads, we need to dry them out in the sun so that it is clean for the next use. However, there is still some kind of shame associated with periods, so some of us women are embarrassed to dry it in public view. Hazards of improper disposal Even as pads flushed in toilets block the sewage lines, the chlorine bleach used to whiten the wood pulp in sanitary napkins for aesthetic reasons is an environmental and health hazard, releasing toxic chemicals as a by-product of the bleaching process. At every stage of manufacturing and use, disposable products like diapers and sanitary napkins lead to wastage of resources like crude oil and trees, while also contaminating water and the atmosphere with dangerous chemicals, before ending up in a landfill since there is no option to dispose them in a safe manner. Vijayakumar, a social activist based in Chennai, has been working on this issue and has conducted various awareness camps for the same. Pads cannot be burned or buried. If they are burned then the chemicals along with the plastic can emit hazardous gases into the environment. But they cannot be buried either as the blood might percolate down the soil, resulting in soil and land pollution," he explained. Waste disposal under the law On 8 April 2016, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change issued a Gazette Notice implementing the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 which state that: (1) All manufacturers of disposable products such as tin, glass, plastics packaging, etc., or brand owners who introduce such products in the market shall provide necessary financial assistance to local authorities for establishment of waste management system. (2) All such brand owners who sell or market their products in such packaging material which are non-biodegradable shall put in place a system to collect back the packaging waste generated due to their production. (3) Manufacturers or brand owners or marketing companies of sanitary napkins and diapers shall explore the possibility of using all recyclable materials in their products or they shall provide a pouch or wrapper for disposal of each napkin or diapers along with the packet of their sanitary products. (4) All such manufacturers, brand owners or marketing companies shall educate the masses for wrapping and disposal of their products. However, no leading sanitary napkin brands in India provide an additional pouch for disposal or raise awareness about correct disposal. The limited number of incinerators also makes it hard to dispose off the pads in a safe way. A return to cloth? Indian women have long used cloth pads during menstruation. However, modern-day society largely relies on commercially available sanitary napkins. While the awareness about menstrual hygiene is slowly rising, several female activists are working to bring cloth pads back and educate the masses regarding the same. Kavya Menon, an activist who is part of AWARE (an educational initiative for sustainable menstruation through use of cloth pads) said, Plastic sanitary pads pose a grave danger not only when not disposed properly, but can give rise to health issues in women as the chemical substance used as bleaching on pads can cause cancer as it comes in contact with womens private parts, while the fragrances used can cause infertility. Kavya suggests the use of cloth pads that can be reused without affecting ones health. While many brands now retail cloth pads, at a glance, these seem to be higher priced, making it economically non-viable for women from lower income groups. However, in the case of sanitary napkins, a woman uses an average of 20 pads in a five-day cycle (while using four pads a day). If each pad is priced at Rs 5, the cost comes up to Rs 100 per month. In a year, she may spend up to Rs 1,200 for sanitary napkins. Cloth pads, on the other hand, priced at Rs 2,400 for a set of eight, can be reused for up to five years. Economically and in terms of disposal, maybe a switch to cloth pads can show the way forward for sustainable menstruation. Anusha Sundar is a (photo)journalist with an eye for environmental, cultural and human-centric stories. Follow her work on Instagram. Imran Khan, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. Islamabad/Karachi: Pakistan has tried to downplay India's decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modi's swearing-in on Thursday, claiming that the Indian prime minister-elect's "internal politics" do not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) countries to Modi's inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a part of the seven-member regional grouping. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Imran to Modi's inauguration, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. "His (Modi's) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon)," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. "India's internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation," he said. Modi and Imran are scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan next month. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in held on 26 May in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Imran after he won the general election last year and wrote a letter as well. Imran, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. "Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Mr Modi as a goodwill gesture," the Pakistani foreign minister said. "Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region... the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. "It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tension," Qureshi said. Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on 14 February. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on 26 February. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. pakmoonsighting .pk features sections such as Islamic calendar for the next five years, a day-to-day lunar calendar against dates from the Gregorian calendar, and the dates on which the first day of every lunar month will fall. Pakistan has launched its first ever moon-sighting website in a bid to end decades-old controversy over the start of key lunar months that decides the beginning of the holy month of Ramzan and Eid festivals. The website pakmoonsighting.pk was inaugurated on Sunday, two weeks after Pakistan's science and technology minister Fawad Chaudhry made an announcement regarding the preparation of a scientific lunar calendar. He said that the website would show the exact dates of important Islamic occasions Ramzan, Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Azha and Muharram, the Dawn reported. Speaking at the launch of the website, Chaudhry said that it will end the "moon-sighting controversy in the country and added that other countries can also use the service to decide the sighting of moon. The website features sections such as Islamic calendar for the next five years, a day-to-day lunar calendar against dates from the Gregorian calendar, and the dates on which the first day of every lunar month is likely to fall. Everyone can access year-wise data about the new moon, its monthly visibility maps and monthly coordinates in major cities on the site as well. A mobile phone app was also being prepared to make it further easier to know when the lunar month would begin, Chaudhry said. Pakistan has been facing controversies on the dates for key occasions like the start of Ramzan and Eid as religious leaders from different regions differ on the sighting of the moon. This year, Ramzan started in Khyber-Pakhtunhwa on 6 May while in rest of the country, the month began on 7 May. It is also possible that the celebration of Eid will be held on two different dates. Chaudhry said that such issues have been resolved through the website and the coming Eid will be on 5 June. But his efforts to resolve the dispute may not end as most of the clerics insist that sighting of moon with naked eye is essential. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Monday termed the death of Dr Payal Salman Tadvi, a medical student in Mumbai, 'a murder of the constitutional protection given to the Scheduled Tribes', the community she hailed from. Lucknow: Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Monday termed the death of Dr Payal Salman Tadvi, a medical student in Mumbai, "a murder of the constitutional protection given to the Scheduled Tribes", the community she hailed from. "The suicide of the brilliant Dr Payal Tadvi belonging to the scheduled tribal community is a result of comments against her caste and the reservation system. This is a case of murder. It is a murder of the protection given by the Constitution. Is this the direction the country is heading towards?" Yadav wrote on Twitter. Tadvi, a 23-year-old postgraduate student at Nair Hospital in Mumbai, had on 22 May committed suicide after allegedly facing harassment at the hands of three senior doctors. Meanwhile, Maharashtra State Commission for Women has issued a notice to Dean of the BYL Nair Hospital seeking a report on the action taken in the case. Her mother Abeda Tadvi had alleged that three senior doctors Hema Ahuja, Bhakti Mehar, and Ankita Khandilwal persistently tortured her daughter which resulted in her taking the extreme step. "Whenever she used to speak to me on phone, she would say 'these (three senior doctors) people torture me as I belong to a tribal community, use casteist slurs.' We want justice for her," Abeda had told ANI. After her allegations, the BYL Nair Hospital administration formed an anti-ragging committee to probe into the suicide. The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) has suspended the three doctors. The accused doctors, on Monday, wrote to the association urging to ensure 'fair' probe into the issue. In the BYL Nair Hospital's suicide case where three seniors allegedly harassed 23-year-old Dr Payal Tadvi on the basis of her caste, one of the three doctors accused in the case has been detained. More details are awaited. Mumbai: The Mumbai Police has arrested Ankita Khandelwal and Hema Ahuja, the other two senior doctors, in the early hours of Wednesday, of Mumbai's BYL Nair Hospital accused of harassing Dr Payal Tadvi, taking the total number of those arrested in the case to three, police said on Wednesday. While one doctor, Bhakti Mehere, was arrested on Tuesday after initial interrogation, the two other accused - Hema Ahuja and Ankita Khandelwal - were absconding. "Ahuja and Khandelwal were arrested in the early hours of Wednesday by the Agripada police in central Mumbai," a senior police official told PTI. They will be produced in a court on Wednesday, he added. Tadvi committed suicide on Wednesday night and alleged that she was being harassed by three senior doctors. Tadvi, a doctor belonging to a tribal community allegedly committed suicide by hanging herself at the hostel of the government-run Nair hospital in Mumbai, police said on Thursday. The deceased was depressed as three of her senior colleagues Hema Ahuja, Bhakti Mehar, and Ankita Khandilwal allegedly harassed her with casteist remarks, police said. Tadvi was enrolled in a post-graduate course in gynaecology. The accused doctors also used to defame Payal on WhatsApp groups of students, a police official said. With inputs from PTI Amidst the ongoing internal investigation in the case of suicide by a post-graduate student Dr Payal Tadvi on 22 May, the BYL Nair Hospital on Tuesday suspended the head of its gynaecology department Dr Yi Ching Ling until further notice. Mumbai: Amidst the ongoing internal investigation in the case of suicide by a post-graduate student Dr Payal Salman Tadvi on 22 May, the BYL Nair Hospital on Tuesday suspended the head of its gynaecology department Dr Yi Ching Ling until further notice. Tadvi, found hanging on the premises of the hospital on 22 May, is believed to have committed suicide after facing months of alleged harassment by seniors who levelled casteist slurs at her. Her family, including her mother, Abeda Tadvi (53), and husband, Dr Salman Tadvi, accused hospital authorities of failing to act against the three seniors before December 2018, when she finally confided in her family about the alleged harassment. The FIR filed after the second year PG student ended her life, stated that her seniors often threatened her, saying she wouldn't be allowed into operation theatres or allowed to perform deliveries. She was also mocked for being a tribal on WhatsApp groups, as per the FIR. Abeda claimed her daughter called her up on 22 May when she was in her hometown in north Maharashtra's Jalgaon district and told her about the alleged harassment. The hospital formed an internal investigation committee to look into Abeda's allegations that Payal was being harassed by three female seniors for her caste and had also been subjected to ragging. Ling, and three other three doctors Hema Ahuja, Bhakti Mehar, and Ankita Khandilwal were suspended by Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) and will not be allowed to take part in any activity in the hospital. In a letter to MARD on Monday, the trio also denied the charges of ragging levelled against them by the deceased's mother. They said they want the college to conduct a fair investigation in the matter and "give justice" to them. "This is not the way to do an investigation through police force and media pressure, without hearing our side," the three doctors said in the letter. A senior MARD official said, "We have credible inputs that the three doctors made casteist remarks against Dr Payal Tadvi, who allegedly committed suicide. We will cooperate with the police for further investigations. To prevent such incidents, MARD has decided to organise sensitisation programmes for second and third year undergraduate medical students." The Mumbai Police has recorded the statements of 30 staff, including doctors and heads of departments (HoDs). An anti-ragging panel has also been formed. The police will also question family members of the deceased. The police officials are probing into casteist slur allegations levelled by the family members of the deceased. The three seniors have been booked under sections of SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act, IT Act, and an anti-ragging Act, along with Section 306 of the Indian Penal Code (abetment of suicide). 'She was a bright student' On Tuesday, her family protested at the state-run hospital in Mumbai where she worked. Other protesters also joined Tadvis mother Abeda and husband Salman who demanded "strictest action" against the three seniors who allegedly drove her to end her life by "torturing her by ragging and hurling casteist abuses at her. Protesters belonging to the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi and other Dalit and tribal organisations held protests outside the BYL Nair Hospital here over Tadvi's death. Reports said the case has shaken up the medical fraternity, with doctors taking to social media demanding justice for Tadvi and strict action against the three senior doctors to set an example. My daughter was the first woman in our community to pursue post-graduation and the first in our family to become a doctor. She was a bright student and had worked hard to reach where she was, her mother, Abeda Tadvi, said. While Tadvis parents work at the Zilla Parishad office in Jalgaon, her elder brother, who is differently-abled repairs mobile phones at home. It was her brothers condition that prompted her to become a doctor. When she was in Class 12, she told us she wanted to pursue medicine. Our entire family was extremely happy with her decision, Abeda said. Tadvi did her MBBS from the Government Medical College in Miraj. After that, she went to Sangli for her year-long internship and subsequently began preparing for her post-graduation in gynaecology. She had joined the PG course in gynaecology at the Topiwala National Medical College, which is attached to the BYL Nair Hospital on 1 May, 2018. When she came to Nair Hospital for her postgraduation, she was asked to temporarily share a room with Dr Hema Ahuja and Dr Bhakti Mehar. The two began harassing her soon, Tadvis husband, Dr Salman Tadvi, alleged. The two doctors would go to the toilet and wipe their feet on her mattress and litter it. When she would be away, they would taunt her that she was spending time with her husband, he claimed. He said the family wants the government to intervene. "We want the government to intervene. The police are not taking any action. It is possible that Payal was murdered by the three women doctors," Salman said. According to a report in News18, Salman also complained to the department head about the harassment. She first complained about the harassment in December. I met the head of department Dr Shirodkar. After this, Payals unit was changed for two months, but when she returned to the same unit after two months, the harassment continued, Abeda said will the government take responsibility for safety of students like her daughter, who are pursuing higher education. She said Payal would have been the first woman MD doctor from their community. "Payal used to tell me about the torture which she was facing by her seniors on petty issues. They threw files on her face in front of patients," she said. "Payal used to tell me not to give a written complaint against her seniors despite being harassed by them. She would say that doing so would advesrely impact their career," Abeda said. In December 2018, her mother gave a written complaint about the three doctors to the head of the department, but nothing changed. My daughter was extremely strong. But this constant abuse eventually broke her. The three accused should be punished so that it sets an example for others who traumatise and torture students like Payal, Abeda said. I hope the police arrest them soon. Social rights associations criticise institution In a letter to the dean of the Mumbai civic body-run BYL Nair Hospital, Ramesh Bharmal, the Maharashtra State Commission for Women sought to know whether the anti-ragging Act was effectively implemented in the institution. The report, which also seeks information on "lack of communication" between the administration and students, is to be submitted within eight days, the commission said. The hospital's anti-ragging committee is expected to submit a report on the suicide. The administration has issued notices to the head of the department and the unit head of the obstetrics and gynaecology department. In Mumbai, on Monday, Ashok Dhawale, president of the All India Kisan Sabha, along with members of Left organisations like the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, Ashok Dhawale, All India Democratic Association, Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), All India Democratic Womens Association (AIDWA), Jati Anta Sangharsh Samiti and Students Federation of India (SFI) staged a protest outside the college and hospital. A tribal organisation has planned a march from the hospital premises to the Agripada police station on Tuesday, to demand arrest of the three doctors. Holding the Nair hospital administration responsible for the suicide, the organisations have demanded action against the dean. Expressing solidarity with the protesters and with Tadvi family, Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad said he would visit Maharashtra if needed to "fight for justice for our younger sister". Congress will also stage a protest on Tuesday seeking action in the case. Maharashtra Congress unit president Ashok Chavan said the doctor had repeatedly flagged the issue but her complaints were allegedly not taken note of. He demanded immediate arrest of those responsible for driving a doctor in a civic-run hospital here to commit suicide. Mumbai Mirror quoted Lucky Jadhav of the tribal organisation Akhil Bharatiya Adivasi Vikas Parishad on Sunday, saying, "It's been five days since the suicide and the police are yet to arrest the three doctors. They are absconding. There has been no action against the head of the department and the dean of the hospital either. Tadvi's family has presented evidence of the harassment to the police, but nothing has moved forward. How long should the family wait for action against the culprits?" Tadvis suicide has sparked outrage against deep-rooted casteism and discrimination against Dalits, Bahujans and Adivasis in Indian institutions. The incident is similar to that of Rohith Vemula a Dalit PhD scholar at the University of Hyderabad who killed himself in 2016 following similar harassment from the university administration. With inputs from agencies Conflicting reports suggest the Congress president is adamant on stepping down, but an emotional party is apparently begging the Gandhi scion to stay The Congress party has slumped to the second-worst electoral drubbing in its history. Narendra Modi has still not yet taken oath for a second consecutive term as prime minister. Already, efforts are on to project Grand Old Party chief Rahul Gandhi as the tragic hero let down by his foot soldiers. Update | Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra leave decision to Rahul Gandhi on quitting as an "individual call", say sources NDTV (@ndtv) May 25, 2019 Post yet another debacle, Rahul apparently has pulled up some senior leaders and state chief ministers for pushing the agenda of their sons, but the irony of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi pushing his case is probably lost on him. One report, quoting a party leader present at the Congress Working Committee meeting that took stock of the fiasco, noted that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra deemed everyone else responsible for the drubbing. The AICC general secretary in charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh apparently lost her cool more than once during the four hour meeting and said: All those responsible for the party's defeat are sitting in this room. If the report is to be believed, she even accused the leaders of abandoning her brother: Where were you when my brother was fighting all by himself and alone? Meanwhile, conflicting reports suggest the Congress president is adamant on stepping down, but an emotional party is apparently begging the Gandhi scion to stay and not desert the Congress in its darkest hour. Yawn. We have read this script before. It is always someone elses fault. We saw this script unfold in 2014 when Rahul was the vice-president of the Congress. Five years of relaunches later the Gandhi scion, now the party chief, has presided over yet another humiliating loss. How has the accountability been set so far? Foot soldiers have resigned and are resigning even as this column is being written. Six party unit chiefs including Raj Babbar from Uttar Pradesh where Priyanka was parachuted in as general secretary have resigned taking moral responsibility. The partys veteran handler in Maharashtra, Ashok Chavan who lost and submitted his resignation on Saturday told media that poll defeat was a collective responsibility and not that of Rahul alone. Such bhakti may bring tears to the eyes. Yet, no one needs to shed tears over the Congress. And honestly, it is nobodys but the partys business to address the crisis. The issue, however, is that Indian democracy needs a strong Opposition to function as an essential part of the system of checks and balances. This is more of a necessity now than ever before due to the enormous mandate that BJP has received, and centralization of that power in Modis hands. The Congress is still the only party suited to perform that role, but its resurrection is impossible unless it addresses the paradox central to its existence. The paradox is that it remains in fear of a split unless a Gandhi sits on top and yet it shall be run aground precisely because a Gandhi sits on top. The first step towards a redemption, therefore, for the Congress is to acknowledge and internalise that this disaster is of Rahuls own making. This is easier said than done for a family enterprise. No amount of deflection from this truth may work. If the Congress tries to shield Rahul from criticism and pretends as if everyone else is at fault, the paradox quoted above will eventually obliterate the party as we know it. The paradox is intriguing because it is also true that if a Gandhi is not there at the helm, the Congress will become splintered and cease to exist. What may, therefore, be the path forward? The question of the party standing for something rather than everything for everyone shall remain central to its eventual trajectory, but that introspection must be done at a later stage. Right now, Congress resurrection is incumbent on an honest assessment, and it must start at the top. In his hour of inglorious defeat, Rahul must not be allowed to play the victimhood card. This was his election, he selected the generals, he devised the strategy, he chose the candidates, he built the narrative and he must now own up for his failures. That is why it is important not to feel sorry for Rahul in his newest avatar as the tragic hero. Rahul ran a vituperative campaign, pulled down the discourse with his untrammeled hatred against the prime minister and spread a web of lies around the Rafale fighter jet deal that he himself got sucked into. It could be the result of putting too much emphasis on data analysis at the cost of hard grind, people-to-people connect and political acumen. It is preposterous to suggest, as Rahul has apparently done, that his chowkidar chor hai campaign was not propagated well enough by Congress leaders. Even if he remains blind to the reality that the campaign backfired because it was a terrible idea to attack Modi on the issue of personal integrity, responsibility for perceived failure of the campaign must also lie on his shoulders. The second step towards Congress redemption, therefore, is for Rahul to accept full responsibility for his failure instead of letting foot soldiers fall by wayside and admit that his strategy was wrong, he was out of touch with reality and he misread the pulse of the nation by running an abusive campaign against a very popular leader. And this is where the rubber hits the road. Instead of abandoning the sinking ship (as Rahul is reportedly planning to do), the Congress president must abhor all drama over resignation and state in clear terms that he is not going to run away from the fight. For all his perceived and real weaknesses, Rahul helms an organisation that is entrenched and as old as history. He may have been handed another humiliating drubbing by his adversary, but tomorrow is another day and age remains on his side. Modi is a remarkable politician who has never lost an election. But politics always offers a second chance. If Rahul runs way right now and spins his escapism as some sort of a higher moral calling, that would complicate issues further for the Congress. Defeat is painful, but it is also a great teacher. For someone willing to learn, that is. Suggestive of strengthening of winds and increasing rain over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the IMD has warned off rough seas over the region until Friday. As the southwest monsoon lost its pulse in the Indian mainland for a week after its onset, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted that the weather conditions are progressing for its further advance into some more parts of the south Bay of Bengal, Andaman Islands and north Andaman Sea between 29 and 30 May. According to IMD, this year, the monsoon in Kerala is expected to be delayed and has set 6 June as the day of onset while, private forecaster Skymet Weather has advanced it by two days to 4 June, The Tribune reported. Suggestive of strengthening of winds and increasing rain over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the IMD has warned off rough seas over the region until Friday. Fairly widespread to widespread rainfall activity with isolated heavy falls may also break out over Assam, Meghalaya and the hills of Bengal as well as over Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura, The Hindu Business Line reported. The Thailand Met Department assessed that the monsoon is presently 'moderate' over the Andaman Sea and the South East Bay with cloudy to partly cloudy skies elsewhere over the Bay of Bengal. But its prediction until Friday warned of swells rising up to to six feet in both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, and to almost 10 feet in the Andaman Sea, especially in the thundershower areas. All passing ships are suggested to take precautionary measures. The Myanmar Department of Meteorology and Hydrology persists with its outlook for the formation of a low-pressure area in the Bay during this period. In the meantime, temperatures are expected to rise by 2 to 3C over major parts of north-west India Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Chandigarh and the hill states during the next four to five days. Temperatures are also expected to remain above normal by 2-3C over some parts of the south peninsula in the next three days. Witnessing rains below the Long Period Average (LPA) during pre-monsoon season is suggestive of seasonal rains to arrive at a time when half of India faces drought. According to The Tribune, in 2019, the cumulative rainfall during pre-monsoon season between 1 March and 22 May is below LPA by 23 percent northwest by 31 percent, south peninsula by 41 percent, central India by 8 percent and east and the North East by 11 percent. On Monday, heat wave conditions were observed over parts of Vidarbha and pockets of Telangana, Marathwada, Odisha and Madhya Maharashtra. Maximum temperatures were appreciably above normal (3.1C to 5C) in some places in these regions. Photo: Google Maps Wiltse Elementary Parents at Pentictons Wiltse Elementary are on a mission to expand the schools playground. During a Playground-a-Thon on May 31, the growing schools parent advisory committee will reach out to the greater community in a bid to raise money for a new playground. The PAC has worked hard all year fundraising through auctions, events, and selling everything from hot dogs to potted plants, already raising $20,000 of the projects $60,000 goal. With an aim of reaching $30,000 by the end of the school year, the group is giving parents a rest from baking cupcakes and not asking community members to run, walk and skip in a traditional "thon" event. Organizers are encouraging the community to save their energy for the weekend and instead simply show up with a cheque. Those who appreciate not having to buy an oversized t-shirt or sugar-laden treat can stop by the school at 640 Wiltse Blvd. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 31, said PAC President Karla Ziegler. During that time, the Playground-a-Thon will acknowledge donations via social media, an on-site donor wall and with fun door prizes. We are so grateful for the donations we have received so far to support our students and provide a new opportunity for our neighbourhood to stay active, safe and have fun, added Karla Ziegler. The 31st is one last opportunity this year to get us over the line and closer to fun new equipment pieces for everyone. We know everyone is busy and were hoping a simple contribution fits everyones schedule. Donations are also being accepted through GoFundMe. TS Inter Re-evaluation Results 2019: The Telangana State Board of Intermediate Education (TS BIE), which faced flak over alleged bungling of results, said 1,137 had passed after re-evaluation. Hyderabad: The Telangana State Board of Intermediate Education (TS BIE), which faced flak over alleged bungling in publication of results, on Monday said 1,137 candidates of the 3.8 lakh students, whose answer scripts were reverified after they failed in the exams in March, were declared passed. The announcement of exam results last month had led to protests by students, parents, students organisations and political parties over alleged goof-up in the process. Several students across Telangana, including the nephew of Telugu Desam Party Rajya Sabha MP CM Ramesh, committed suicide as they failed to clear the intermediate (Class 12) examination. Government officials had said that bubbling errors in OMR sheets (by examiners), among other things, were noticed. The BIE said in a release on Monday night that 9,43,005 candidates appeared for the intermediate exams in March. Of these, 5,60,889 passed while 3,82,116 failed, it said. TSBIE said re-verification of answer scripts of failed candidates was started on 26 April on the directions of the high court. The second level checking using artificial intelligence and scanning for 19,788 answer scripts is still on. All efforts are being made to complete testing, scanning and uploading by tonight or tomorrow, the release said. After re-verification, 1,137 candidates were declared to have passed, of whom 552 were from second year and 585 from the first year, it said. The second year candidates are eligible to pursue higher education. The film, titled Allegory A Tapestry of Guru Nanaks Travels, will attempt to unravel the hidden meaning behind the journeys Nanak undertook. When Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims were forced to leave their home and the land of their forefathers, what did they carry as souvenirs? Nothing, but a few seeds of memories. But what they left behind in 1947 was an immeasurable wealth of culture a syncretic lifestyle evolved and enriched over centuries. Not long back, communities were bound by spiritual values by the underlying thread of humanity and mutual respect. All this was wiped out. Yet, a few residual shades remind one of the possibilities of what could be. At the last surviving Hindu temple in Kabul, the Asamai temple, the Bhagwat Geeta, the only enshrined scripture, is in Gurmukhi. Although, the priest at the temple can read only Urdu. A reminder that languages and scripts are not owned by specific religions, but are a heritage for humankind. Unfortunately, the exiled communities in alien lands found that the seeds of memory fail to grow into trees that would bear the fruits of culture-left behind. In two generations, the culture is lost, even when re-planted on a different land. Look at all the Gurdwaras of north Punjab, it's all marble and gold. Its sad if our younger generation starts believing that our forefathers knew so little; if we present a blinkered view in the name of our heritage. What about art, architecture, forts, havelis, temples, Gurdwaras, battlegrounds and the human stories? rues Amardeep Singh, Singapore based self-taught writer, photographer and now a documentary maker who produced two coffee table books, Lost Heritage: The Sikh Legacy in Pakistan, followed by The Quest Continues: Lost Heritage: The Sikh Legacy in Pakistan, based on his photographic documentation of Sikh legacy in over 90 towns and cities across five states of Pakistan. Under the shadows of guns, Amardeep is shooting for a documentary in Afghanistan, tracing the legacy of love and brotherhood of Guru Nanaks footprints across nine countries. In doing so he is challenged with unscripted events on a daily basis. The first one being to visit the actual sites themselves where the founder of the Sikh religion addressed congregations of diverse faiths between 1500 AD to 1524 AD. Amardeep has to chart out his own course by making human bonds which alone could pave his way ahead. A vast geographical area where Nanak preached his messages is now a conflict zone. He attempts to document the impact of Nanaks words five centuries later; to record the remnants of syncretic culture lost to the melee of the Partition and other geopolitical developments. His work is neither political nor academic. He narrates tales of people and places that survived the storms of hatred and destruction to still blossom with love and brotherhood. Post-Partition, Guru Nanaks words have been boxed within the Sikh identity; whereas Khalsa was just one arm of Nanaks broad humanism. His legacy was larger than any religion across countries he travelled present-day Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, China, Tibet, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and India. For each geographical unit, Amardeep encounters hurdles on every step, be it visas, permissions or the risks involved in entering conflict zones. In these countries, he is tracing the legacy of a borderless land Nanak traversed in five major journeys he undertook to cover roughly 28,000 km, mostly on foot. His companion was Bhai Mardana, a rebab player of Muslim faith, from his hometown. In his times, he would have travelled in and out of India-Pakistan border more than 15 times, to Afghanistan, three times, Tibet, twice, and so on, but then he didn't have to cross borders and present visas. He travelled to Mecca, Medina, Baghdad, Jaffna, Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka, Tibet, the traces are still there at Hinglaj temple, Balochistan, Pakistan, Imam Raza Shrine, Mashhad, Iran, or Sita Eliya, Sri Lanka. Indias independence was gained at the cost of the culture of the Indus belt, where the religious identities were blurred among Nanakpanthis Hindus, Jains, Buddhist, Sikhs and the Sufis. Among the Sindhis, Balochis and Hindus, Nanak was deeply entrenched along the Indus belt. Today that culture is wiped out of the memory, communities are fragmented, and are boxed into religious compartments as about 80 percent of the land where this culture evolved is now in Pakistan. When people of this land were forced to migrate and were settled in the Gangetic plains, their syncretic nature was lost. As such, the Partition of 1947 raised religious identities to a new pitch, undermining other legacies, observes Amardeep. As the world prepares to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev in November 2019, Amardeep travels to 150 inter-faith sites, visited by Nanak. That he preached monism, not monotheism; to him, religious faith was secondary to humanity. This has been forgotten even by his followers, he says. Although his documentary will be ready for release only by November 2020. Nanaks verses are about spirituality, the history of his travels was documented 50 years after his death by Bhai Gurdas, based on oral traditions. The core repository of these travelogues is Janamsakhis and Udasis. It's a maze which doesn't have consistency, because they were written by men of faith, observes Amardeep, who has to stitch together diverse tales, to join the dots and lend his narrative an element of objectivity. Though historians have written extensively about these travels, some scope for oral tradition has to be allowed for the sake of narrative." The narrative of Nanaks travels is huge and the canvas vast. Mapping the routes alone took months; shooting across nine countries will take about a years time. The film is titled Allegory A Tapestry of Guru Nanaks Travels, and will attempt to unravel the hidden meaning behind the journeys Nanak undertook and spent two decades of his life in spreading the message of universal brotherhood. I want the younger generation to have access to the true identity of Guru Nanak, not boxed within religion, but of his greater philosophy and spiritualism, that is still evident in places he visited. There are still traces of the values he preached; lived and experienced by Nanakpanthis, spread across regions. Pockets in Balochistan, Sindh, NWF, across the Indus belt Nanakpanthis have multiple identities. They are Nirmala, Udasi, Sehajdhari, who are not turbaned. Then there are Pashto Sikhs who wear a turban, but are very different from the Sikhs of North Punjab. There are Jogis too, who are followers of Nanak. Why multiple identities of Sikhs disappeared from the Gangetic plains? Amardeep unravels the underlying unifying thread of Nanakpanthis, not boxed by religion, by going back to the sites of Nanaks travels. About 50 percent of the sites are inaccessible due to multiple reasons; mainly armed conflict. Which makes travelling back in time and space all the more relevant to understand why in more than 500 years since Nanak, humanity could not let go of the essence of his words. There are instances that rekindle hope in the middle of conflict zones. For instance, Amardeep comes across Dr Raghunath, a Nanakpanthi Hindu, who hasn't left Kabul against all odds to serve the natives of the land. He helps the film crew in locating the abandoned sites across Kandahar region Nanakpanthis had made in the memory of Guru Nanaks travels. Everything is not lost. Alpa Shahs journey through India's Naxal belt with a guerrilla platoon is documented in her 2018 book, Nightmarch. This year, the title has been longlisted for the prestigious Orwell Prize for Political Writing. My black hair was neatly oiled into a slick bun and I had wrapped a cheap flowery red and yellow chiffon saree around me to blend in among the local people. But taller and lighter skinned than the local women, I knew I still stood out in this male-dominated environment and thought that the 'receiver' would be able to identify me. Nevertheless, as agreed, I carried a loaf of bread. Object in hand, I approached the 'receiver'. Clearly, the chosen attire was unusual for writer and anthropologist, Alpa Shah. However, it enabled her to travel incognito with her 'receiver' through India's formidable 'Red Corridor' an account poignantly documented in her 2018 book Nightmarch: A Journey into Indias Naxal Heartlands, which has been longlisted for the prestigious Orwell Prize for Political Writing this year. A professor of anthropology at the London School of Economics, Shah trekked with a Naxal platoon through a 250-kilometre-long stretch of the troubled belt in 2010. Unarmed, dressed in an olive-green guerrilla uniform, the writer was the only woman in the unit, but disguised as a man. Hopefully, one of the outcomes of Nightmarch being longlisted will be that many more people will come to understand the story of Indias Adivasis and the Naxalites who have lived amidst them, the anthropologist says. Among the longest running insurgencies in the country, for Shah, the story of the Naxals lay in the grey territory nestled between the black and white thats painted in the popular imagination. When it is told, it is often through tired tropes of, on the one hand, terrorism, coercion and greed or, on the other hand, grievance and identity politics. But, as Nightmarch shows, it is a much more complex and contradictory story, full of paradoxes and ironies, and one that is central to understanding not only contemporary India but also any struggle against inequality, Shah explains. Caught in the crossfire of a political deadlock between the Naxals and the state are the Adivasis, many of whom have lost their lives in the battle. While the seeds of the first rebellion were sown shortly after Independence in the state of Andhra Pradesh, it was in 1967 that India witnessed the beginning of the strife in Bengals Naxalbari village with an armed peasants revolution. Now, nearly half-a-century into the conflict, Shah believes that the biggest stakeholders continue to languish in subhuman conditions. While some Adivasis and Dalits may appear better off today than (they did) 30 years ago due to increased access to money, consumer goods and reservation policies, their growth barely holds water when compared to that of their upper caste counterparts, Shah observes. Today their cheap labour is being used to build the infrastructure of Indias economic boom that others profit from. Many migrate for six to eight months of the year, far away from their homes, to carry out the worst and most precarious labour in the informal economy, work that most other people will not want to touch whether it is the back breaking cutting of sugarcane or carrying bricks, gravel and cement on their heads and across their shoulders, she explains. The Adivasis are mostly paid a pittance, and sometimes nothing at all. They live in slum-like conditions, and are often bound by labour contracts without rights and facilities. [They are] hired one day, fired the next...Whereas it was once thought that stigmas of caste and tribe would disappear with development, they have, in fact, gained a new lease of life in the modern economy. Adivasis and Dalits continue to be abused as dirty, lazy, polluted, wild and savage. Venturing into the Red Corridor comes with its share of threats that are almost always fatal. Shahs endeavour of charting the Naxal story from ground zero was, understandably, a commitment like no other. It involved not just tangible lifestyle changes, but the unpacking of ones ideals and privileges as well. There are those like Gyanji one of the central characters of the book who came from relatively privileged, educated high caste well-to-do backgrounds, who gave up the comforts of their homes, cut ties with their families, decasted and declassed themselves, to be underground for decades on end, Shah says. Then there are Adivasi foot-soldiers like Kohli, a sweet 16-year-old, who was once assigned as my bodyguard. He had run away to live with the guerrilla armies after a fight with his father about a glass of spilt milk. Like many Adivasis, he moved in and out of the guerrilla armies as though he were going to stay with an uncle or an aunt. Then there was also Vikas, an Adivasi platoon commander, who Gyanji called a Frankensteins monster, who seemed to be with the Naxalites because he was earning money for his private purse, and who eventually came to betray the guerrillas. Or there was Somwari, the woman I lived with, who resented the guerrillas but at the same time went to seek help from them for a court case, who made me wonder if she needed Clara Zetkin [the German Marxist thinker] to liberate her..." The title chronicles her seven-night-long march through Bihar and Jharkhand, tailing a Naxal contingent, at a time when the government was amplifying its assault on the group. Former prime minister Manmohan Singh had termed the outfit as the biggest internal security challenges facing our country at a press conference held in the same year as Shahs journey into the Naxal heartlands. This othering of the Adivasis has proved to be counterproductive for both sides in the longer run. The state counterinsurgency forces have mainly seen Adivasis as terrorists, leading to a take over of their homes, forests and ways of life, rupturing and destroying their families and communities beyond recognition. I cannot even mention here the crimes that human rights activists say have been committed against their women. The prisons of central and eastern India are full of thousands of Adivasis imprisoned as alleged Naxalites, held for years without being brought to trial, Shah rues. With the death toll having stacked up over the years, the writer believes its time for a serious strategy overhaul on both sides. India desperately needs a radically different approach to its Adivasis, one that deeply appreciates them and their ways of life on their own terms. Having said that, I think the ways in which the Naxalites are going about their fight for a more equal society is very dangerous, not only because of the repression they have brought to many ordinary people, but also because when one takes up arms, it is very easy to reproduce the violence of the oppressor you are fighting against and destroy yourself from within, she says. In Maharashtras Gadchiroli district, a Maoist attack earlier this month claimed the lives of 15 policemen and a civilian. While Naxal activity in the state had seen a general slump since the 2009 Lehari and Dhanora attacks, the Gadchiroli incident has put state forces on the offensive yet again. Clearly, the socio-political logjam remains far from being resolved. And it is in search of these answers that Alpa Shah set out on her nightmarch, an allegory for the underground movement thats ripping through the subcontinent. In his famous essay Why I Write, George Orwell says that the initial motivation for writing was to get a hearing because there were lies to expose, facts to draw attention to, but also make that process into an aesthetic experience and to turn writing into an art, Shah says about one of her biggest literary influences, who also lends his name to the award shes been longlisted for. While the dream is to have Adivasis lead a life of unfettered autonomy, the cost of realising it has been far too heavy. Despite the interventions of several regimes and ideologies since Independence, the Naxal conundrum has remained obstinately unanswered. Today, the forms of inequality, oppression and repression may have changed, but I think Orwells words ring as true as ever that in fact, Everyone writes of them in one guise or another," Shah says. "It is simply a question of which side one takes and what approach one follows. And the more one is conscious of one's political bias, the more chance one has of acting politically without sacrificing one's aesthetic and intellectual integrity. If the women councillors do join BJP, it would deal another blow for TMC, which lost much ground in West Bengal in the Lok Sabha elections. New Delhi: In a setback to TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, about 20 women councillors of her party arrived on Tuesday saying they wanted to join BJP as they were influenced by the deep inroads made by the saffron party in West Bengal in the recently-concluded Lok Sabha elections. "20 councillors are here in Delhi. We are not upset with Mamata ji (Banerjee) but BJP's massive gains in Bengal has influenced us to join the party. People are liking BJP as they are working for them," Ruby Chatterjee, TMC councillor from Garifa, Ward no 6, told ANI. If the women councillors do join BJP, it would deal another blow for TMC, which lost much ground in West Bengal in the Lok Sabha elections. The state witnessed a saffron surge as BJP inflicted a massive blow to the ruling TMC by winning 18 of the 42 parliamentary constituencies, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in the 2014 general elections. The Banerjee-led TMC although retained the state, it won just 22 seats, as against 34 in 2014. The Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee will meet on Wednesday at party headquarters for the first time after the party's debacle in Lok Sabha polls wherein Congress could not win even a single seat out of the 25 parliamentary constituencies in the state Jaipur: The Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee will meet on Wednesday at party headquarters, a party spokesperson said. The meeting will be presided by the Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot in which AICC general secretary Avinash Pandey and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot will also be present, he said. It will be the first executive committee meeting after the party's debacle in Lok Sabha polls wherein Congress could not win even a single seat out of the 25 parliamentary constituencies in the state. Party leaders said that the meeting will brainstorm on the reasons of party's poor performance in the recent polls. A second straight majority for a single party with the hunger, ambition, meticulousness and focus of an Amit Shah, with an icon like Narendra Modi to propel the narrative, offers the BJP a historic opportunity in the south. Chances are, in contrast to most BJP leaders and activists who would be celebrating their mammoth victory, glancing with pride at the saffron-splashed map of India, when Amit Shah looks at it, his eye would not fall with delight at the hue that has covered states from Kashmir to Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat to Arunachal Pradesh, or the big new splashing of it in Bengal, Odisha and North East but rather on the 100-odd seats of south India where the colour is anything but saffron. The three states of Tamil Naidu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have been politically represented strongly by regional parties rooted in a combination of linguistic pride and sub-nationalism, sense of an "evolved culture", distinct movies and a uniquely local flavour of social justice and welfare governance. These factors, in conjunction, proved to be the high wall for the BJP to scale -- whose perception as a Hindi party even before its Hindutva is considered for decades. In the past, the perception that it was as an upper caste Brahminical party hindered it from planting roots in a Dravidian culture. Keralas strong sense of Leftist orientation and strongly pronounced secular outlook have proved to be a deterrence. Karnataka had given BJP a chance, but the leadership the party provided and the governance it offered proved a dampener. When Tamil Nadu reeled under protests against a Supreme Court verdict on jallikattu, the BJP was not at the lead. Whenever Kaveri river water disputes erupt, the party is not too sure of its position. When a separate Telangana was a quest of its people, or when Andhra Pradesh demands special category status, the BJP has not found its footing. Little wonder, the party was ecstatic when it found a hook in Sabarimala in Kerala, hoping a single issue would propel it to harness its strong foundation of RSS network in the state to gain parliamentary seats, which did not materialise. It was the first real emotive issue for it in the south which it led and found public salience, and it takes a steep curve ahead to harvest MPs. Leaders are created by movements, but it takes smart local leaders to identify potential issues -- the BJP has largely been bereft of both. A few leaders of the previous generation were committed to the party, but without adequate hunger, or capacity, to grow it. The BJP has also not found such badly managed states where the economy has floundered, crime has taken over society, and opportunities lacking as is it did in Uttar Pradesh or Bihar or West Bengal in the south. The various governments here, despite the corruption and caste riddles socio-political contexts, have delivered sound economic growth, jobs opportunities, better infrastructure and welfare that actually reaches and touches people across the south. This has meant that there has never been a strong, ready-to-eat-pie of anti-incumbency or political vacuum for the BJP to grab. In short, the traditionally ruled BJP ruled states, or its Gujarat model does not come across as a salivating prospect or an ideal for people. In the south, deceased leaders like MG Ramachandran, M Karunanidhi, J Jayalalithaa, NT Rama Rao and S Rajasekhara Reddy held such sway over political narrative, their party and governance, in touch with the masses and a grip on the media, giving little scope for a party like the BJP to come and disrupt. Their ability to offer the right support to the governments at the centre during nearly 25 years of coalition governments meant national parties in Delhi wanted their support, not become their rivals. For example, when the BJP became the first party to support the cause of Telangana, the TRS was not even born, but the alliance with N Chandrababu Naidus TDP meant it could never push for it locally, not when the Central government of NDA led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee needed the support of the TDP. A second straight majority for a single party with the hunger, ambition, meticulousness and focus of an Amit Shah, with an icon like Narendra Modi to propel the narrative, offers the BJP a historic opportunity in the south. In Karnataka, where it has built a strong cadre, leader base and worked on issues, it has surged. If as speculations echo that Karnataka might see a change of power, it will give the BJP a base camp to expand down south. MK Stalin and YS Jaganmohan Reddy have both tasted their first electoral success in life but are not invulnerable. The concern of lacking leaders remains a concern even with Tamil Nadu, where Stalin has emerged numero uno in a leader-vacant state after the passing away of the two iconic stalwarts. Unless BJP finds a local leader to match the stature of K Chandrasekhara Rao in Telangana or Jaganmohan Reddy in Andhra Pradesh, the party would continue to remain irrelevant, especially in state elections. It would eye Telangana, where it has won four unprecedented and unexpected seats, and in Andhra Pradesh where the TDPs defeat creates a vacancy for an opposition party. Despite registering a huge surge in Telangana, with four wins and coming second in several others, the BJP is yet to become even the principal opposition to the TRS and has only one MLAs in the 119-seat Assembly. It now has a clear opening to move ahead in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh and strengthen its party in Tamil Nadu, besides trying to build and grow on its existing vote base in Kerala. The rise of saffron in the south has been slow, but Shah is the last man to feel challenged. He may love the idea of conquering the last bastion. Only, the south has been tough for anyone from up north to understand, much less conquer; setting the tone for a great game of thrones ahead. Comfortably in power in the state since 2016, the BJP ran a polarising campaign in the state amid controversial issues of the National Register of Citizens and the Citizenship Bill. If 2014 changed the grammar of politics in India, the 2019 verdict is further proof that conventional arithmetic no longer holds for national elections. BJP has not only come back to power, but it has also bettered its own performance since 2014, with 303 seats and 37.4 percent of the total vote share. In tune with the national picture, BJP won nine out of 14 parliamentary seats in Assam with a gain of two seats from the last time. The Congress managed to retain three seats. The BJPs stellar performance in Assam in 2014 was a result of long-term shifts in the politics of the state. Continued erosion of Congress traditional constituencies, BJPs ability to appropriate the nativist politics and its attendant cultural symbols gave the party a strong foothold, unprecedented in the history of this northeastern state. Comfortably in power in the state since 2016, the BJP ran a polarising campaign in the state amid controversial issues of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the Citizenship Bill. BJP kept its earlier poll promise by attempting to updating the NRC, a record which is to consist names of all genuine Indian citizens residing in Assam. The second and final NRC draft released in 2018, through a rather fraught bureaucratic exercise, happen to exclude about four million names. To BJPs dismay, many Bengali Hindus on whose support it depends in the Barak Valley, have been found to be left out of this draft list. On a defensive, the party introduced the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) in the Lok Sabha partly in keeping with BJPs poll promise in 2014 to welcome Hindu refugees and persons of five other faiths except for Muslims. BJP leaders in Assam tried to assuage Hindu voters that they would have an opportunity to apply for citizenship in case their names have been left out in the NRC. The Bill was met with resistance from many quarters. Critics pointed out that the CAB could cost the saffron party in this election. On the contrary, voters in Assam have given an overwhelming mandate to the BJP. For the BJP, this election was about Assams very survival. While nationally, the BJP successfully transformed the election into a presidential-style if not Modi, who?, in Assam, this was combined with the illegal immigration card. Himanta Biswa Sarma, perhaps BJPs most influential leader from the North East, called this election the last battle of Saraighat-- to evoke a sense of urgency against what he claimed to be a demographic and political onslaught of illegal Bangladeshis. Like the battle of Saraighat in late 17th century where the Ahoms resisted the entry of Mughals into Assam, the BJP claimed its main agenda is to arrest the aggression that Badruddin Ajmals AIUDF party represents. Religious polarisation is not new in Assam since the anti-immigrant student agitation in 1970s-80s also had sectarian elements, leading to widespread violence against minorities particularly Bengali Muslims. A re-energised and communal brand of sub-nationalism in this election seems to have worked in the partys favour. Interestingly, divisive rhetoric and politics helped consolidate Muslim votes in favour of Congress instead of the AIUDF. The latter managed to retain Ajmals Dhubri constituency, which is two less than 2014. Its vote share has also been halved. Congress snatched Barpeta earlier represented by Ajmals brother Siraj Uddin Ajmal. Ajmals party has been on the decline since 2016 and won only 26 seats in the 2018 panchayat election. There are over nine parliamentary seats constituting of 40 Assembly segments, where Muslim votes range from 35 to 90 percent of the total vote share. So a decline in its support is a significant development in Assam politics. Since its creation in 2006, AIUDF had significantly eaten into Congress core support base of Muslim votes. However, this election seems to have convinced many Bengali Muslims that Congress was a more sustainable alternative given BJPs strategy of religious polarisation. Congress garnered 35.44 percent votes in the state and even managed to wrest the minority-dominated Nowgong seat from the BJP by a margin of over 16,000 votes. Assam politics is often organised around two major social cleavages: linguistic and religious. In this election, religious fault line trumped language as Hindus (Assamese, Bengalis and others) have coalesced around BJP while Muslims have predominantly voted for the Congress. In the larger picture, this configuration benefits the BJP. Moreover, since 2014, there is a strong indication that the regional forces no longer hold sway with voters in Assam. Once a formidable challenger to Congress dominance, the AGP has been drawing a blank since 2014. Riding on the coat tails of the BJP, the AGP has marginally improved its vote share since the previous election. Shortly after the announcement of the CAB, AGP exited the alliance with the ruling BJP government in Assam, arguing that the Bill is in direct violation of the clauses of the Assam Accord. The fact that it came back to BJP for a pre-poll alliance for Lok Sabha shows its absolute diminished electoral capital. Historically known to be a Hindi-cow belt party, the BJP needed the regional party to gain a cultural legitimacy in the state. The 2019 verdict is proof that this project is now realised, at the cost of regional forces. The author is an assistant professor, FLAME University, Pune. Even as Narendra Modi-Jagan Mohan Reddy hug has sparked rumours of the YSR Congress Party joining the NDA, it would be tough for the YSRCP to join the BJP-led alliance without extracting special category status for Andhra Pradesh from the Centre Enough has been said about how chemistry outplayed arithmetic in the 2019 Lok Sabha election. Its time now to look at kinesics the science of body language. If you dont know where to start, you can begin with the hug that Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi and Andhra Pradesh chief minister-elect Jaganmohan Reddy exchanged in Delhi on Sunday. After a bitter election, leaders of all parties in Andhra Pradesh are unanimous about one thing: the Modi-Jagan hug was warm enough to boil milk. After the hug, the faces of Modi and Jagan glowed like the chandelier above them. Then came an effusive tweet from Modi in Telugu and English which described their meeting as "excellent". Had an excellent meeting with Andhra Pradeshs CM designate @ysjagan. We had a fruitful interaction on several issues pertaining to APs development. Assured him all possible support from the Centre during his term. pic.twitter.com/u7bwPGI4t6 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 26, 2019 The hug and the tweet added to the other friendly noises, sparking speculation on whether or not Jagan is about to join the BJP-led NDA. Neither party needs the other politically right now, but its possible that both may be betting on a long-term win-win situation for themselves. The fact that Jagan met not just Modi but even BJP President Amit Shah in Delhi only provided grist to the rumour mill. The talk of Shah having offered two ministerial posts to Jagans YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) if it joined the NDA has been making rounds since Sunday. Before the Lok Sabha elections, it had been widely expected that Jagan would back the NDA if the latter fell short of majority in the Lok Sabha. It was believed Jagans' YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) would take the place of the Telugu Desam Party of former chief minister Chandrababu Naidu, who had been BJPs ally till 2018. Besides Jagan, Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) was another leader in the South who was seen as a potential NDA partner. BJP's southern ambitions YSRCP, which has won 22 of the 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh, would have been a valuable asset for Modi in case of a hung Lok Sabha. But with 303 seats, the BJP has won enough majority on its own. It has no need for even the existing NDA allies, leave alone scouting for new ones. But thats not how the BJP leaders practise their politics. The party has in mind its long-term prospects in the South, and having Jagan on board would help its strategy. The BJP has done exceedingly well in Karnataka by polling 52.4 percent votes and winning 25 of the 28 seats. After Karnataka it did best in Telangana where it picked up only four seats but significantly raised its vote share to nearly 20 percent from some seven percent in the Assembly election five months ago. The morale of the BJP is truly high in Karnataka after the Lok Sabha election which it won largely because of the Modi factor. The other factors that facilitated a BJP sweep in Karnataka are: the tendency of the state to vote differently in the Assembly and the Lok Sabha elections, constant infighting between ruling alliance partners Janata Dal (Secular) and Congress, virtual absence of governance in the state, the greed of JD(S) leader HD Deve Gowda to promote his family and the caste matrix. In Karnataka, the BJP stands a good chance of toppling the coalition government by wooing eight MLAs. Apart from the Modi factor, what appears to have helped the BJP in Telangana was a limited-extent negative vote against KCR. Other factors that went in favour of the saffron party include: disapproval by voters of KCRs idea of a Federal Front without Congress and BJP, his abrasive style of functioning and his attempts to decimate the Opposition. The BJP also benefitted in Telangana from anti-incumbency against KCR to some degree, his loss of Hindu vote because of his association with AIMIM of Muslim rabble-rouser Asaduddin Owaisi and the decision by a section of his own supporters to vote for a different party in the national election. The BJP probably sees a good chance of doing better in Telangana in the future with or without KCR on its side. In Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala, the BJP didnt win a single seat; nor did it raise its vote share significantly. In Tamil Nadu, it has an ally in AIADMK. With minorities accounting for 45 percent of the population, Kerala is a tough nut to crack. But in Andhra Pradesh, it has hopes of increasing its foothold if as the cliche goes the party piggybacks on Jagans party. Tough for Jagan to join NDA But it wont be easy for Jagan to formally join the NDA. Before the elections, he took a consistent stand that he would support any party at the Centre, which would grant Special Category Status (SCT)" to Andhra Pradesh. This has been a key demand of the state since it was bifurcated and Telangana was formed in 2014. Chandrababu Naidus doublespeak over SCT was one of the reasons why he badly lost the election. It would be tough for Jagan to join the NDA bandwagon without extracting SCT from the Centre. And, it wont be easy either for the Modi government to go back on its earlier refusal to grant this status. That would only provoke other states to step up their own pending demands for a similar status. And while taking any decision to join the NDA, Jagan cant ignore its likely impact on his minority vote bank in Andhra Pradesh. By joining the NDA, Jagan will also leave himself open to allegations of a quid pro quo of Modi going slow on CBI cases against him. The last word, you can be sure, hasnt been heard on this, with no immediate election round the corner in Andhra Pradesh. The author tweets @sprasadindia Gujarat MLA and OBC leader Alpesh Thakor said had left the Congress before the Lok Sabha elections, claiming that leaders of his party Kshatriya Thakor Sena were facing insults. Ahmadabad: Gujarat MLA and OBC leader Alpesh Thakor on Tuesday said Congress leaders who reiterate that scams have taken place are suffering from a "chemical locha" (chemical imbalance) in their minds. Thakor had left the Congress last month ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, stating that his Kshatriya Thakor Sena was facing insults in the party. He said that the Congress party has no people and is only full of "chela chapatas" (those who indulge in flattery). "Congress failed to understand what people actually want. They only repeatedly shouted 'ghotala hua, ghotala hua" (there's a scam). There was no scam. The scam was in their minds, the 'chemical locha' was in their minds," Thakor told ANI. Earlier, Thakor said he will not join the BJP though he is in contact with several of their party leaders as an MLA. He said the Congress was bound to have been defeated in the Lok Sabha polls as the party has no presence on the ground and only emphasises on organising press conferences. "Congress had no more than 500 booths. They have lost connection at the ground level and its leaders only do pressers sitting in the party office. They should reach out to people in villages and try to resolve their problems," said Thakor. "Congress has become a party without any public support, without any booth management. It has become a party of only leaders," he lashed out. "The way Congress is working is the reason why they failed to understand what people want. Congress did not find a way to sort out public issues. Congress does not have strong people. It only gas 'chela chapatas'," he said. Thakor claimed that he had cautioned the Congress against negative campaigning against Narendra Modi and RSS. "I asked Congress to not speak against Narendra Modi or RSS, but they did not understand this. Modi is the face of non-corruption, while RSS is the face for nationalism," he asserted. He said that 15 to 17 Congress MLAs are unhappy with the party. "We want to work for our people and the poor with the help of the government... wait and watch, more than 15 MLAs are leaving Congress, everyone is distressed. More than half of the MLAs are upset," Thakor claimed. Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, who had resigned as the Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly before the Sabha elections, may join the BJP after 30 May. Mumbai: Maharashtra Congress leader Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil might join the BJP after Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes oath for his second term on 30 May, a senior BJP minister said Tuesday. He also said that Vikhe Patil's entry into the BJP fold would be unconditional. However, Vikhe Patil, who had resigned as the Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly in the run up to Lok Sabha elections, remained tight-lipped about his next political course. Vikhe Patil met Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan at the latter's official bungalow in Mumbai on Tuesday morning. He said he had come to thank Mahajan for the latter's support in ensuring his son Sujay's victory from Ahmednagar Lok Sabha constituency. "I openly campaigned for my son who contested as a BJP candidate. So action was taken against me. Denial of a ticket to my son was injustice. This shows the policy of the Congress," he charged. Vikhe Patil said he had not resigned as an MLA. "I am not in touch with any MLAs," he added. Responding to a query on his plans to join the BJP, Vikhe Patil replied that nothing has been decided as of now. He said he had met Mahajan, who also holds medical education portfolio, earlier over the Maratha reservation issue. "I run a medical college. I discussed with him the issue of the court scrapping the Maratha quota for medical courses," Vikhe Patil said. Meanwhile, Mahajan said Vikhe Patil's entry into the BJP fold is a formality now. "Vikhe Patil could be inducted into the BJP fold, may be after the prime minister's swearing in on 30 May," he said. Mahajan, who is believed to be a close confidant of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, clarified that Vikhe Patil's entry into the BJP will be unconditional. When asked to clear air on a speculation that Vikhe Patil might be inducted into the state Cabinet, Mahajan said that is the prerogative of the chief minister. He said many MLAs of the Congress and the NCP are in touch with the BJP. "Nobody wants to be with the Congress and the NCP now. But we too have limitations on inducting new entrants," he said, adding that not more than 60 MLAs of the Congress and the NCP would get elected in the upcoming Assembly elections. Photo: File Vernon is closer to having a cultural centre after the Regional District of North Okanagan board of directors approved next steps. At their May 22 board meeting, staff were directed to move forward with the first step toward the development of the final business plan for the cultural centre along with the creation of a coordinated fundraising strategy, the RDNO said in a release. The first step in the business planning process will be completing a more detailed market assessment and analysis, the RDNO said. "There is a lot of planning work that has to be done before shovels can hit the ground to make sure we create the best facility possible for our community," said Akbal Mund, Chair of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee. "The Boards direction really demonstrates the RDNOs commitment to moving this project forward quickly, and with thought and planning." Through a successful referendum in October of 2018, the community supported the borrowing of up to $25 million to fund a portion of the proposed $40 million cultural centre. The RDNO has applied for a grant through the Investing in Canada Fund for $23.57 million, which would help offset some of the required borrowing, if successful. Steps are underway to establish a fund to manage and collect donations for the project. "Incredibly, multiple instances of grassroots fundraising for the Centre have already started," the RDNO said. If people wish to donate before this fund is established, the Greater Vernon Museum and Archives, the RDNO Main Office, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery are all prepared to take donations for the project and issue tax receipts. Modi himself provided an interesting window to his thoughts while addressing over 300 BJP MPs, many of them first-timers, at Parliament's Central Hall on Saturday evening. What emerged during the address has been lauded in many quarters as 'statesmanlike', 'inclusive' and 'empowering' but a key takeaway from the address was the prime minister's inherent distrust of the media. It is rarely that we get insights into the mind of Narendra Modi, the politician who is redefining politics in our era. This might seem paradoxical since Modi has been in constant conversation with the electorate ever since he came to power at the Centre in 2014. Through countless speeches, interviews, tweets, monologues, dialogues and other communicative outreaches, Modi has been busy talking and listening to the people. Yet, barring a few occasions, it has been impossible to peek into his mind to understand the thought process of a politician who is taking apart existing political models and constantly challenging us to rethink our axiomatic beliefs about India's politics and discourse. The just-concluded 2019 Lok Sabha elections offer a good example. Traditional political wisdom centred around caste identities and votebank politics has been swept away in favour of a new phenomenon the Modi phenomenon the nature of which we dont fully understand yet. Now that Indians have allowed him a bigger mandate in his second consecutive term and even more responsibility than in his first with the result that Modi now possesses power rivalling a Recep Tayyip Erdogan or a Xi Jinping it may be worth noting what he stands for, and in which direction does he wish to take the country that has reposed untrammeled faith in him. Modi himself provided an interesting window to his thoughts while addressing over 300 BJP MPs, many of them first timers, at the Parliaments Central Hall on Saturday evening. What emerged during the address has been lauded in many quarters as statesmanlike, inclusive and empowering but what leapt out, during the address, is the prime ministers inherent distrust of the media. While advising first time MPs on the perceived booby traps laid by the mass medium, it was evident that Modi sees the conventional media (not social) as a sold out entity that in the garb of questioning the government performs the role of a destabiliser. Modi believes that the media is perhaps inimical to India's interests and an obstacle in the path of the government in carrying out its duties and responsibilities. He reminded the MPs that the enormity of the mandate places immense responsibility on their shoulders because "ab janta maaf nahi karegi (the people wont forgive anymore) if they fail in their tasks. And to carry out those tasks, said the prime minister, it requires single-minded determination and a concerted effort to stay away from needless controversies which are inevitable if lawmakers allow the media to 'seduce' them. As he said, "god knows what magic lies in the TV boom that mouths open on their own, and words pour out that keeps their (media's) business thriving and puts the party in trouble." One may easily interpret Modis advice to MPs as a warning not to delve in controversies such as those created by Bhopal contestant Pragya Thakur (now an MP) who had to twice apologise for her controversial statements. So, according to Modi, the media performs the role of a "seductress". Is this assessment justified? Modi might not be against the concept of a mass medium, per se, that performs its role as the proverbial fourth pillar of democracy. If we assess his earlier speeches, Modi has batted for media scrutiny in government functioning and has repeatedly called for informed and constructive criticism. His grouse seems to be that the medias current role (as opposed to its objective task as democracys watchdog) is subjective and deviates from that path owing to a corruptive influence. What may be the corruptive influence that, according to Modi, has damaged medias credibility? From his address to MPs on Saturday, it seemed as if the prime minister is hinting towards two impulses medias loyalty towards the ecosystem that nurtured it for 70 years and pecuniary interests that involve spinning perennially on the controversy axis to sustain itself. "They have been nurtured for 70 years by others it is a folly to believe they would accept us," said Modi the only occasion when he overtly criticized the media. His chief thrust of criticism was towards the lawmakers who have, as he said, repeatedly put the party and the government in a spot in the past not because they failed in their jobs, but because they couldnt resist the lure of media. "We may do very good work as a government but one wrong sentence from you can shatter the goodwill. Beware of two tendencies, which Advani ji (senior BJP leader LK Advani) used to warn about Chhapaas aur Dikhaas (the addiction to be published in papers, and to be watched on TV), he said. #WATCH PM Narendra Modi addressing NDA Parliamentary meet says, "Media ke logo ko bhi pata hota hai ki 6 namune hain, vaha subah pahoch jayo, gate ke bahar khade raho, nikal ke kuchh to bolega." pic.twitter.com/dTtzu9uz6M ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2019 Modi also warned the lawmakers to not fall in the misconception of off the record conversations because, as he said, nothing spoken to the media ever remains off the record, even more so in the age of hidden devices that may record private conversations. This might seem verging on paranoia, but it gives un invaluable glimpse into the mind of a man for whom media remains an anathema. He equally urged party spokespersons not to "react" immediately before gathering full information. "This business of reaction and counter-reaction make things go out of hand and buries the real issue. It is not the medias fault but our enchantment with the medium." Two things are worth emphasizing in lieu of Modis address. One, it gives us an insight into Modis obsessive self-discipline in public life. It also tells us something about his political strengths. To dismantle the existing political models, demolish old ideas centred around consolidation of caste identities and create new consolidations that cut across caste and even community divides requires an extraordinary political acumen. Modi possesses that acumen. As Pratap Bhanu Mehta, vice-chancellor of Ashoka University tells The New Yorker in an interview, "You cannot deny the fact he is an absolutely extraordinary politician, in terms of thinking about the aesthetics of politics, in terms of thinking about what communication means in politics, in terms of thinking about political organization. What he does as a politician is to say, 'You can create a new reality. You are not trapped by inherited categories of thinking'." This is easier said than done. To do what Modi has successfully done two times over requires talent, high degree of motivation, foresight, risk-taking abilities and self-discipline. Modi's assessment may be harsh, but we in media have 'earned' the distrust and loss of credibility that plagues us. It would be easy to paint Modi as a media-hater and stop all introspection. Yet, if half of India has just voted for one man and reposed trust in his vision, it won't be illogical to suggest that his views resonate among majority of Indians. We would do well, therefore, to introspect why we have seemingly deviated from our objective of working as the neutral watchdog of democracy. We should reflect on why sensationalism scores over hard-nosed reporting. Perhaps we have forgotten how to do our primary job offer informed and reasonable critiques of the government, hold it accountable, diagnose and represent the will of the people. Had we been doing our job well, at the very least we would have picked up traces of the Modi wave 2.0. Instead, we hyped up 2019 Lok Sabha polls as a close contest. Rahul Gandhi was launched (for the umpteenth time) as a knight in shining armour finally ready to meet his destiny. Medias self-delusion arises from its laziness, but also because it chooses to remain in denial. The question is, why? One possible answer could be the fact that the media, like everything else, had been controlled by a small group of elites who took grip of the countrys levers of power from the British. As Tavleen Singh, writes in The Indian Express, "believe me when I tell you that we controlled everything. Politics, government, business, foreign policy, the police, the military and the media. All this was possible because we were to some degree all courtiers in the court of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty since the British left. We knew that their 'socialism' and 'secularism' were as fake as their 'idea of India'." It is easy to see why they saw in Modi an existential threat, and through one of their controlling arms the media sought to demolish that threat in inception. In effect, the media perhaps contributed towards making Modi the phenomenon that he is. In his distrust of the media, Modi may do well to acknowledge that (unintended) contribution. For us in the media, it is time for some reflection and going back to the basics. India will get a new Council of Ministers led by Modi on 30 May, when President Ram Nath Kovind administers them the oath of office and secrecy at Rashtrapati Bhavan After its victory in the Lok Sabha elections 2019, President Ram Nath Kovind had on Saturday invited the National Democratic Alliance parliamentary party leader Narendra Modi to form the government at the Centre. The Modi-led NDA won 353 seats while the BJP on its own bagged 303 seats. While inviting Modi to form the government under Article 75(1) of the Indian Constitution, Kovind also asked him to tender advice on the names of the members of the Council of Ministers. Article 75(1) states: "The prime minister shall be appointed by the President and the other ministers shall be appointed by the President on the advice of the prime minister." India will get a new Council of Ministers led by Modi on 30 May, when Kovind administers them the oath of office and secrecy at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Before the new government is inaugurated, here is a primer on what the constitution says about the Council of Ministers. Council of Ministers holds real executive power To begin with, the president administers the oath of office and secrecy to the Prime Minister of India and his Council of Ministers as prescribed under Part I and II of the Third Schedule of the Constitution. A minister can either take oath in the name of God or as a solemn affirmation. The Union Council of Ministers led by the prime minister act as the advisor to the President. Article 74(1) of the Indian Constitution elucidates, "There shall be a Council of Ministers with the prime minister at the head to aid and advise the President who shall, in the exercise of his functions, act in accordance with such advice. The president may require the council of ministers to reconsider such advice and president shall act in accordance with such advice reconsidered." After the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution in 1976, the president is also expected to act according to the advice given by the Union Council of Ministers. This particular Article was amended under the 44th Amendment to the Indian Constitution, which added that the President can ask the Council of Ministers to reconsider their advice once. However, if the Council of Ministers resend the same advice, then the president is bound to accept it. It is the constitutional duty of the prime minister to communicate to the President all decisions of Council of Ministers relating to general administration and legislation. Moreover, the advice tendered by the Council of Ministers cannot be inquired into any court of law as per Article 75(2) of the Constitution. The prime minister-led Union Council of Ministers collectively hold the real executive power in the Indian political system. This means that all executive actions are taken by the Council of Ministers, although in the name of the President. Hence, the President, the constitutional head of state, is the nominal executive. The Vice-President of India completes the executive branch of the Indian government. Council of Ministers accountable to Lok Sabha While the ministers in the council hold office during the pleasure of the president (which in real, means to the satisfaction of Council of Ministers), they are collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. Collective responsibility means members of the Council of Ministers follow an integrated policy, for which all of them accept responsibility and on which they stand or fall together," The Hindu noted in an op-ed written in 2000. The idea of collective responsibility requires ministers to publicly support the decisions as a whole and show no disagreement with these decisions outside the meeting room. However, if a minister fundamentally disagrees with a decision, he or she can resign from the Council of Ministers. In the past, several ministers have resigned due to fundamental differences of opinion on key issues. Since the Council of Ministers are collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha, they must enjoy the support of the majority of the members of Lok Sabha. Otherwise, the Lower House of the Parliament could either initiate a no-confidence motion or defeat the Council of Ministers on a major issue of policy. A member of the Council of Ministers needs to be a member of either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha. Article 75(5) of the Indian Constitution demands that a newly sworn-in member of the Council of Ministers, if not already a Member of the Parliament, needs to enter the Parliament within six months. For instance, Nirmala Sitharaman was made a Rajya Sabha MP from Andhra Pradesh after she was made a minister in 2014. Eighteen ministers in the 16th Lok Sabha led by Modi belonged to the Rajya Sabha, including 12 Cabinet Ministers. The rest were Lok Sabha MPs. After the 91st Amendment in 2003, the total number of ministers in the Council of Ministers cannot exceed 15 percent of the total strength of the Lok Sabha. This implies that the total size of the Council of Ministers cannot exceed 81. Modi had 71 members in the Council of Ministers for the 16th Lok Sabha. His predecessor Manmohan Singh began with 67 ministers in 2004 (14th Lok Sabha) and by the time he demitted office in 2014 (15th Lok Sabha), his Council of Ministers had increased to 78. Cabinet ministers the senior-most in the Council of Ministers There are three ranks within the Indian Council of Ministers Cabinet, Minister of State (Independent Charge) and Minister of State. The Cabinet rank is the senior-most in the Council of Ministers. Someone with a Cabinet rank is the overall in-charge of a ministry. There were 25 Cabinet rank ministers in the 16th Lok Sabha. Interestingly, there was no mention of the word Cabinet in the original Constitution. The word was added during the 44th Amendment to the Constitution in 1978. Yet, the roles and powers of the Cabinet are not well-defined. Thus, the Cabinets role in Indian politics is more or less governed by parliamentary conventions of the Westminster system (parliamentary system of government developed in the United Kingdom). The Union Cabinet is the top-most decision-making body within the Union Council of Ministers. In fact, there are a number of crucial committees, which are open to only Cabinet Ministers. Some of these committees include the Cabinet Committee on Security, Cabinet Committee on Appointments, Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs and Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs. Perhaps, the most well-known committee is the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) headed by the prime minister. The Committee also consists of the top four Cabinet Ministers Home, External Affairs, Defence and Finance. Below the Cabinet rank ministers come Ministers of State (Independent Charge). These ministers independently handle a ministry and do not have a Cabinet Minister to oversee their work. In the Council of Ministers for the 16th Lok Sabha, several important portfolios like power, culture and tourism, labour, communications, etc, were handled by those with the rank of Minister of State (Independent Charge). The lowest ranking minister in the Union Council of Ministers is the Minister of State. A Minister of State is a junior minister who serves under a Cabinet Minister. Often, major ministries like Home, Finance and External Affairs have more than one Ministers of State. For example, Kiren Rijiju and Hansraj Ahir are the two Ministers of State in the Home Ministry headed by Rajnath Singh. While Ministers of State (Independent Charge) of key ministries are often called for Cabinet meetings, this is not the case for those with a rank of Minister of State. India will not invite Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to Thursday's swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi, who starts his second term as Indias prime minister, two sources in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, suggesting any early warming in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours is unlikely. New Delhi: India will not invite Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to Thursday's swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi, who starts his second term as the Prime Minister, two sources in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, suggesting any early warming in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours is unlikely. India and Pakistan have fought three wars since both won Independence from Britain in 1947, and came close to a fourth in February after a suicide attack by a Pakistan-based militant group killed at least 40 CRPF jawans police in Pulwama. An Indian government statement on Monday said the leaders of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan all members, with India, of the little-known Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) - have been invited to Modi's swearing-in. "This is in line with governments focus on its 'Neighbourhood First' policy," a government spokesman said. The leaders of Kyrgyzstan and Mauritius have also been invited, but two sources in Indians foreign ministry said Pakistan will not be on the list, without providing further information. For the swearing-in ceremony for Modi's first term in 2014, all nations from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), that includes Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Maldives, were invited. In 2014 Pakistan's then-prime minister Nawaz Sharif attended the ceremony, to the anger of some of Modis Hindu-nationalist allies. Modi and Khan both claimed their air forces carried out air strikes in enemy territory in March, to the alarm of world powers. Modi, who was widely believed to have benefited politically from the stand-off, won a second term with an increased majority in a general election whose results were declared last week. Khan called Modi on Sunday to congratulate him on his win. Modi could still meet Khan at a Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan next month, that both leaders may attend. A spokesman for Pakistans embassy in New Delhi was not immediately available for comment. This meeting came after Gandhi had offered to step down from his party post at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting, held on Saturday, taking moral responsibility for Congress' dismal performance in the Lok Sabha elections. New Delhi: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rajasthan deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot on Tuesday arrived at the residence of party president Rahul Gandhi who has offered to step down from the party's top post. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala and party general secretary in-charge KC Venugopal were also present at Gandhi's residence. This meeting came after Gandhi had offered to step down from his party post at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting, held on Saturday, taking moral responsibility for Congress' dismal performance in the Lok Sabha elections. However, Gandhi's resignation offer was unanimously rejected by the CWC. Sources said that despite senior leaders making serious attempts to convince him to rethink on his decision, Gandhi is said to be unfazed. On Monday, party treasurer Ahmed Patel and Venugopal met with Gandhi at his residence here and urged him to continue to lead the party. Party leaders, sources said, maintained that Congress cannot afford to have a new leader at the helm for rebuilding the organisation at this juncture and that the responsibility for the defeat is collective and not individual. A CWC member said that an honest postmortem is the need of the hour. However, Congress had termed the developments as speculation and rumour. "The Congress party expects everyone including the media to respect the sanctity of a closed-door meeting of the CWC. Various conjectures, speculations, insinuations, assumptions, gossip and rumour mongering in a section of the media is uncalled for and unwarranted," Surjewala tweeted earlier. Rajasthan Congress, which faced an embarrassing defeat in the state in the Lok Sabha elections only months after winning the mandate in the Assembly polls, appears to be lacking leadership, with all guns trained on Ashok Gehlot. "This is a historic win for the BJP and the credit goes to Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. Their leadership has put the nation first," former Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje said after the saffron party decimated the Congress in the state in the Lok Sabha elections, winning all 25 constituencies. The leadership she describes appears missing in the Rajasthan Congress, which faced an embarrassing defeat in the state only months after winning the mandate in the Assembly elections (albeit by a narrow margin). Amid a row over Congress president Rahul Gandhi reportedly insisting on resigning from the post, the turmoil in the Rajasthan Congress has come to the fore, with all guns trained on Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. At the meeting of the Congress Working Committee, at which Rahul offered to step down as the party chief, Gehlot was one of the three senior leaders besides Kamal Nath and P Chidambaram who Rahul accused of placing their sons above the party. His sister and Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also said that the entire top brass of the party had not supported Rahul and had left him alone to fight it out against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. There have been reports of disarray in the Rajasthan Congress, with several ministers demanding that accountability be fixed for the colossal electoral defeat and action be taken against those responsible for the poll debacle in the state. The current state of political affairs in Rajasthan is reminiscent of the weeks leading to the Assembly elections, when there were reports of clashes between Gehlot's camp and that of current Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot, who is also the president of Rajasthan Congress. Although Pilot had denied any infighting, the tension between the two sides was evident. However, at the moment it is Gehlot who is at the received end of the party's ire for its abysmal performance in Rajasthan in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The party's complete decimation indicates that any gains it might have made over the months leading to Assembly elections were wiped out ahead of the parliamentary elections. It didn't come as much of a surprise when there were reports of Lalchand Kataria resigning from the Rajasthan Cabinet and two other state ministers demanding a detailed review of the factors that possibly led to the humiliating outcome of the Lok Sabha polls. The sentiment of a lack of leadership in the state stems from the chief minister's complete focus on his son Vaibhav Gehlot's candidacy from the Jodhpur seat, where he came second to BJP's Gajendra Singh Shekhawat with 38.21 percent of the votes. Ashok Gehlot is now facing the accusation of spending far too much time unsuccessfully campaigning for his son and in the process, neglecting the other 24 constituencies of the state. Those looking to pin the blame on the 68-year-old politician have asserted that the chief minister should have paid equal attention to all the Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan, not merely the one from where his son was fielded. Cooperative Minister Udai Lal Anjana and Food and Civil Supplies Minister Ramesh Meena are the two who raised the demand for a detailed review of the election defeat, highlighting the need to strengthen the party ahead of the local body elections scheduled for later this year. Anjana was also quoted as saying by The Indian Express that Gehlot would have worked more in other constituencies "had he been free". His thoughts on Gehlot's extensive campaigning for his son could not be clearer. Despite multiple reports of discord in the Rajasthan Congress and allegations that senior leaders had insisted on Lok Sabha tickets for their sons, Gehlot dismissed all the fingers pointed at him as "internal matters of the party" and "out of context". Pilot was given the responsibility of Rajasthan ahead of the Assembly polls. He had focussed the Congress campaign on reaching out to the youth and making a connection with the population at the grassroots. Now, it appears that this connection was lost over the weeks after the state elections, with Pilot taking the backseat as Gehlot's deputy in the state. This has led to speculation around the possible revival of factionalism in the party, with tussles between the sides backing Pilot and Gehlot. The current discontent among Congress leaders and fears of another Pilot versus Gehlot episode, clubbed with the BJP sniffing around and grabbing on to any opportunity to attract a dissenting leader, leaves the Congress government in Rajasthan on the brink of a collapse. The Lok Sabha election results from Rajasthan made one thing clear party interest is supreme; family comes second. Lack of focus on this sentiment is what brought down the party in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the three states it had won in the December 2018 Assembly elections. The anti-incumbency wave that the Congress had ridden on to grab the assemblies is the same tide that drowned the party for failing to get the attention desired and vitally required from leaders at such a crucial stage of Indian politics. Delhi Congress chief Sheila Dikshit on Tuesday appealed to party president Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his decision to step down, saying the party has bounced back in the past from challenging circumstances to triumph New Delhi: Delhi Congress chief Sheila Dikshit on Tuesday appealed to party president Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his decision to step down, saying the party has bounced back in the past from challenging circumstances to triumph. Congress faces a critical crisis with Gandhi staying firm on his decision to quit after the poll debacle. The party won only 52 Lok Sabha seats and its governments in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan face an uncertain future. "Under the dynamic leadership of Indira Gandhi, the Congress party fought back from the setback in the 1977 Lok Sabha elections to wrest power two-and-a-half years later, and the party remained in power for several years thereafter," Dikshit said in a statement. Delhi Congress was firmly with Rahul Gandhi in this challenging time for the party, she said. "There was no need for the Congress president and the party workers to get disheartened by the setbacks in the Lok Sabha elections," she said, appealing Gandhi to withdraw his decision to step down as party president. Under Dikshit's leadership, the Congress was routed in Delhi by the BJP which won all seven Lok Sabha seats with huge margins. The Congress, however, managed to replace AAP as runners up on five of the seven seats. Dikshit herself lost to her BJP counterpart and sitting MP Manoj Tiwari by a margin of over 3.66 lakh votes from North East Delhi. Dikshit said the Congress candidates finished second in five of the seven Lok Sabha constituencies in Delhi, and the party also came first in five assembly segments and second in 42 others. The three-time former Delhi chief minister lamented that under the AAP regime, development works have "come to a halt" in the city. Dikshit said the Congress workers will go to the people with a positive agenda to win back their trust and confidence, and the party will bounce back in the upcoming assembly elections in Delhi in 2020. The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to direct the Uttar Pradesh Police to conduct further probe in the 2018 Hapur lynching case New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to direct the Uttar Pradesh Police to conduct further probe in the 2018 Hapur lynching case. A vacation bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Aniruddha Bose said the trial court would decide the plea for seeking further direction to the state police to file supplementary charge sheet after conducting further probe in the murder case of 45-year-old meat exporter Qasim Qureishi. The bench was hearing a fresh interim application filed by Samiuddin, a relative of the deceased, in which it was submitted that further probe was needed in view of revelations made by two brothers of the meat exporter in their statements recorded under Section 164 of the CrPC before the chief judicial magistrate of Hapur. Declining the plea, the bench asked Samiuddin to approach the trial court which will take a decision in accordance with the law. The Uttar Pradesh government had earlier informed the apex court that it had filed a fresh status report on the investigation in the Hapur lynching case. The court had on 8 April asked the state government to file a status report of the investigation in the case in which a person was killed and another brutally assaulted in the name of cow vigilantism in June last year. The apex court on 5 September last year directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) of Meerut range to supervise the investigation in the Hapur lynching case. Earlier, Samiuddin had sought setting up of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to ensure "an impartial, competent and fair investigation" into "the barbaric incident of mob lynching on 18 June last year in Hapur district of Uttar Pradesh." The plea had alleged that Samiuddin and Qasim, both belonging to the minority community, were targeted and mercilessly assaulted by a mob of the majority community from the neighbouring village, in the name of cow vigilantism. It had further sought a direction to the state government to compensate the victim for his medical treatment. It had said Qasim had died as a consequence of the lethal mob lynching, while Samiuddin survived the attempt on his life but suffered multiple fractures, wounds, and injuries. The rally was scheduled to go from Murudeshwar Assembly constituency till Lokpur College. When BJP's rally reached the TMC party office in the area, supporters of the latter allegedly threw a bomb at the procession. Bhirbhum: Poll violence in West Bengal has not ceased to exist even after the conclusion of Lok Sabha elections as a victory procession of the BJP in Birbhum was disrupted, allegedly by TMC workers. TMC supporters on Monday allegedly hurled a bomb at a 'Vijay Rally' of the BJP. The rally was scheduled to go from Murudeshwar Assembly constituency till Lokpur College. When BJP's rally reached the TMC party office in the area, supporters of the latter allegedly threw a bomb at the procession. Locals said that police personnel of Mayureswar Police Station were present at the incident spot. The police said that no injuries were reported and an inquiry into the matter has been ordered. Birbhum Superintendent of Police, Shyam Singh said, "The investigation in the incident is underway. No one has been arrested till now." During general elections, the BJP and the TMC were involved in violent clashes during all the seven phases. Both the parties frequently traded blame over the issue. In the Lok Sabha elections, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led TMC won 22 seats as against 34 in 2014, while the BJP has made deep inroads in the state bagging 18, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in 2014. Several other BJP leaders like Arun Jaitley, Rajyavardhan Rathore, and Rajnath Singh also remembered Savarkar and hailed him for his nationalism and courage. Jaitley said Savarkar's 'nationalistic ideals, patriotism, and courage guided generations of Indians'. On freedom fighter and Hindutva philosopher Vinayak Damodar Savarkar's 136th birth anniversary, many politicians paid tributes to him including Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi. "Veer Savarkar epitomizes courage, patriotism and unflinching commitment to a strong India. He inspired many people to devote themselves towards nation building," Modi said in a tweet remembering the lawyer and activist. We bow to Veer Savarkar on his Jayanti. Veer Savarkar epitomises courage, patriotism and unflinching commitment to a strong India. He inspired many people to devote themselves towards nation building. pic.twitter.com/k1rmFHz250 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2019 Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu also tweeted saying the "nation will always remember the sacrifices made by him during the freedom struggle". Tributes to revolutionary freedom fighter, rationalist & reformer, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar on his birth anniversary today. Nation will always remember the sacrifices made by him during the freedom struggle. #VeerSavarkar pic.twitter.com/1wJ42T8eMg VicePresidentOfIndia (@VPSecretariat) May 28, 2019 Several other BJP leaders like Arun Jaitley, Rajyavardhan Rathore, and Rajnath Singh also remembered Savarkar and hailed him for his nationalism and courage. Jaitley said Savarkar's "nationalistic ideals, patriotism, and courage guided generations of Indians". Whereas, Rathore called him an "epitome of patriotism and true inspiration", while Singh said that "Savarkar's courage during the freedom movement and his contribution to this great nation will continue to inspire coming generations". Meanwhile, Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani paid flower tributes to Savarkar at his office. Paid floral tributes to Shri Vinayak Damodar Savarkar - the patriot of The Indian War of Independence, on his birth anniversary. pic.twitter.com/Bd74IRcj2W Vijay Rupani (@vijayrupanibjp) May 28, 2019 Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman also paid tributes to the leader calling him a "visionary statesman and social reformer". Tribute to #VeerSavarkar A fearless revolutionary, prolific poet, a visionary statesman, a social reformer, who dedicated his life in the service of Bharat Mata. #VeerSavarkarJayantipic.twitter.com/zFd0a3iL3q NSitharamanOffice (@nsitharamanoffc) May 28, 2019 Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Tripura chief minister Biplab Kumar Deb, Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri, and such other BJP leaders as Pon Radhakrishnan, BS Yeddyurappa and Vijender Gupta also tweeted to pay homage to Savarkar. Meanwhile, Chhattisgarh chief minister and Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel had on Monday claimed that Savarkar was the first one to propose the two-nation theory that led to the formation of India and Pakistan, while Muhammad Ali Jinnah implemented it. Baghel said, "Savarkar had put forward the proposal of dividing the country into two parts on religious grounds and Jinnah had implemented it. This is a historical fact and no one can deny it." Baghel was speaking on the demand for honouring Savarkar with Bharat Ratna. "He had fought for the Independence of the country and was put in Andaman and Nicobar jail. Not just once but he apologised repeatedly to Britishers and after coming out of jail he stayed away from the fight for the country's Independence. He had thought of two countries, this is also historically true," he said. In May 2018, the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha (ABHM) had requested the Centre to replace the picture of Mahatma Gandhi from the Indian currency with the picture of Savarkar who was held captive by the Britishers in the infamous Cellular Jail ('Kaala Paani') in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. tech2 News Staff To celebrate its 30-year anniversary Taiwanese electronics giant Asus launched an exclusive limited edition version of the Asus ZenFone 6 called as the ZenFone 6 Edition 30. The company had done something similar with its ZenBook as well. The ZenFone 6 Edition 30 features quite the interesting internals as well as an "exclusive design" at the back that looks like older ASUS devices. There will be only 3,000 units of this smartphone sold globally, as per Asus and each device will be backed by a 30-month warranty. On the hardware front the device packs in a humungous 12 GB RAM and 512 GB internal storage. Apart from that, there is also the Edition 30 logo embossed at the back of the phone. All the rest of the internals seen in the device remain the same. The Zenfone 6 is packing in the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 SoC arguably the fastest chip an Android phone can have, 6 GB or 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 64, 128 or 256 GB of UFS 2.1-based storage. This is paired with a 5,000 mAh battery for what Asus is promising is 2-day battery life. The phone supports Qualcomms QuickCharge 4.0 tech (18 W) for fast charging. The 6.4-inch display is notch free and available in an FHD+ resolution and 19.5:9 aspect ratio. splay brightness goes up to 600 nits. This display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 6. Its also 100 percent DCI-P3 rated, which means it can show about as many colours as the iPhone XR. In terms of specs, the camera comprises a Sony IMX 586 sensor thats rated to 48 MP just as it is on the OnePlus 7 and OnePlus 7 Pro (Review). Unlike on the OnePlus 7 duo, this camera generates full 48 MP images and not 12 MP binned images. The lens aperture is a relatively larger f/1.79. ASUS also confirmed that it was participating in the Android Beta Program and promised that Android Q and Android R the two next versions of Android will be coming to the device. Disclaimer: One of our correspondents was invited by ASUS India for Computex 2019 at Taipei, Taiwan. All travel and accommodation expenses were taken care of by ASUS. Photo: The Canadian Press A proposed law is going before the B.C. legislature to ban the controversial practice of attempting to change a person's sexual orientation. Green Leader Andrew Weaver says his party's legislation would stop the use of so-called conversion therapy in the province for those under 19 years old. Weaver says the therapy is abusive, damages people's health and that the Sexual Orientation and Gender Protection Act aims to ensure the health and safety of the province's LGBTQ-plus community. Read more tech2 News Staff Xiaomi's Flagship Killer 2.0 aka the Redmi K20 is expected to be officially unveiled at an event in Beijing, China at 11:30 am IST today. The reason why the Redmi K20 is an important phone is because this will be the first time that we'll be seeing a Xiaomi flagship being launched under its budget-oriented Redmi banner. Since Xiaomi has been calling this Flagship Killer 2.0, we expect the company will likely price the phone right in the range of the OnePlus 7 which is priced at Rs 32,999. The launch will be live streamed on the Xiaomi China website as well as on Redmi's official Weibo channel. However, do bear in mind that the live stream will likely happen in Mandarin which will make it quite difficult to follow. Redmi K20 and Redmi K20 Pro: All we know so far At the launch event, Redmi is expected to announce not one but two models of its new K series. There is the Redmi K20 and also the K20 Pro, wherein the K20 Pro is pitted as the flagship killer by Redmi. Coming first to the specs of the two devices, the Redmi K20 Pro is said to feature a Snapdragon 855 chipset while the K20 will have the recently launched Snapdragon 730 SoC. In terms of storage configurations, the K20 and K20 Pro should have 4/6 GB RAM and 6/8/12 GB RAM respectively. Both the phones in the Redmi K20 series are said to feature 6.39-inch Full HD+ AMOLED displays with an impressive 91.2 percent screen-to-body ratio. There's also Gorilla Glass 5 protection along with it. For cameras, the Redmi K20 series is tipped to include a single pop-up camera on the front and triple rear cameras on the back. The rear-facing setup is said to comprise of a 48 MP primary sensor, a 13 MP ultrawide lens, and an 8 MP telephoto lens. (Also read: Redmi K20 and Redmi K20 Pro: A culmination of all the deets from leaks, along with expected pricing details) On the front, the Redmi K20 phones will sport a 20 MP sensor for selfies. As per the leaked specs sheet, both phones will also sport 4,000 mAh battery units along with support for 27 W fast charging. On the software front, the phones are said to run Xiaomi's MIUI 10 skin on top of Android 9 Pie. As per Xiaomi's official Weibo page, the device is seen to sport a red-coloured finish with yellow and purple overtones. Going by the leaked images there appears to be a colour shift on the phone's back depending on the light falling on it. The render also confirms that the device will come with a triple-camera setup which is aligned centrally with the Redmi branding. Another leaked photo on Weibo showed the retail packaging of the K20 Pro which confirms specs such as 4,000 mAh battery, 27 W fast charging, and an in-display fingerprint scanner. tech2 News Staff The 'Flagship Killer 2.0' by Xiaomi sub-brand Redmi has been finally announced in China. While the Redmi K20 starts at CNY 1,999, the Redmi K20 Pro starts at a price of CNY 2,499 (approx. Rs 25,000) and goes up to CNY 2,999 (approx Rs 30,000) for the top-end variant. There is also the Avengers Edition of the phone for which the price is still unannounced. Redmi K20 Pro Specs Coming to the specs of the Redmi K20 Pro, we see that it comes with a 6.35-inch display with an FHD+ resolution and 19.5:9 aspect ratio. The device has a fingerprint sensor of the in-display variety along with a pop-out front facing camera which gives the phone a near bezel-less design. Redmi's 'Flagship Killer 2.0' has certainly got the flagship level internals as well. Powering the device is a Snapdragon 855 SoC which is paired with up to 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. The device will run on Android 9.0 Pie along with Xiaomi's MIUI 10 skin overlaying it. In terms of optics, the Redmi K20 Pro has triple rear cameras which consist of a 48 MP primary sensor + 13 MP ultra-wide sensor + 8 MP telephoto lens with 2X optical zoom. The pop-out camera on the phone has a 20 MP sensor. In terms of video shooting capabilities, the device has a 960 fps slo-mo feature along with 4K @ 30 fps recording. The phone has a 4,000 mAh battery which supports 27W fast-charging capabilities. Redmi claims this can charge the phone 58 percent in 30 minutes and completely fill the power cell in 74 minutes. Apart from that Redmi has also added a Game Turbo 2.0 feature that allocates more resources for gaming. Apart from the K20 Pro, Xiaomi also announced the Redmi K20 which packs in the Snapdragon 730 and also has the Sony IMX582 sensor instead of IMX586. Rest, all other specs remain the same except for an 18W fast charging support instead of 27W. The device has been priced at CNY 1,999 (approx Rs 20,000) and goes up to CNY 2,099 (approx. Rs 21,000). India availability As of right now, it has not been announced when the device will come to India, but if rumours are true then the device could come to India as the Poco F2. If the title Flagship Killer 2.0 is anything to go by, then we should definitely see the Redmi K20 Pro priced well below the Rs 48,999 price tag of the OnePlus 7 Pro. Raghu Murtugudde India is a vast country with disparate climate variability and change signals from north-to-south and east-to-west. The mix of field crops like rice, wheat, jowar, corn and soybean, as well as speciality products like vegetables, flowers, nuts, fruits, etc, are also vastly different across the subcontinent. To understand the climate sensitivity of agriculture across such complex terrain that has a complex mix of climate variability, change and agricultural activities, it is important to carefully choose a metric to measure it. Recent studies of climate sensitivity of agriculture in the US may point to an answer. A measure of productivity for sustainable agriculture in India Climate impacts on agriculture typically consider temperature and precipitation impacts on crop yields, profits per acre and such. These are considered partial measures of productivity since they don't include the sum total of all inputs and output to track the overall return on investment or ROI and the overall sensitivity of this ROI to climate variability and change. Economics offers a metric that is ideal for measuring the aggregate agricultural productivity and its sensitivity to climate. It's what's called the Total Factor Productivity (TFP), which considers all necessary inputs and outputs. An inclusive measure like this is necessary since partial productivity doesn't add up like a mathematic formula to give total productivity, i.e, partial productivity measures may not accurately represent the sensitivity of a particular economic sector like agriculture to climate variability. TFP, on the other hand, can capture exactly that. Climate impact analyses of partial productivity measures can lead to conflicting results on the vulnerability of agriculture because of region-specific climates, specific crops or regions being considered in the analyses and whether the target is agricultural productivity or economic profitability. TFP can avoid these pitfalls. To wit, the impact of temperature and precipitation on crops and speciality products in the US show negative impacts on crop yields and profits from them. Yet, TFP computations show that US agriculture has grown nearly monotonically since World War II. This aggregate production, however, has become increasingly sensitive to climate variability even as it has seen more-or-less steady growth. Advances in technology and regional specializations in crop selections, irrigation, and livestock production, are responsible for most of the agricultural growth as well as the increased sensitivity to climate. Clearly, regional differences in climate and its impact on TFP must be understood to get the full-picture on where climate sensitivity comes from and how it can be mitigated in a warming world with more climate extremes. A close look at the history of TFP offers better guidance for the future in terms of minimizing climate sensitivity of TFP by distributing risks with appropriate regional choices of crops, livestock, and speciality products. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in December 2018, presents the long term trend and variability of US agricultural TFP, which is the ratio of total agricultural output to the number of units of input. The outputs here include crops and livestock as well as other components of the agricultural economy such as goods and services. The inputs are land and labor as well as the capital and other resources such as water and energy. The highlights of the study are that the climate sensitivity of TFP has a large variability across the US with a relatively more rapid increase in climate sensitivity in some regions such as the Midwestern states and for the non-irrigated crops in the Eastern United States. On the other hand, livestock production shows negligible climate sensitivity. Moreover, technologies underlying agricultural practices and regional specialization influence TFP for both crops and livestock. Climate sensitivity of TFP will clearly depend on crop selections. For example, states in the US Midwest show high TFP sensitivity to summer temperatures and rainfall because they largely rely on non-irrigated cereals and oilseeds. As the background temperatures warm, the same temperature anomaly (say, a 2-degree C-spike in summer temperature) would be more harmful to crops because they ride on a higher summer mean temperature. A comparison between TFPs during the years 1960-1982 and 1983-2004 thus shows that a 2 degree C heatwave produced an almost 30 percent-drop in TFP during the latter period, whereas, the reduction in TFP was only about 11 percent for the former period. In the same vein, crop selection can also reduce climate sensitivity of TFP. The southeast-to-southern plains, as well as the Southwest and Northwest of USA, have experienced a reduced climate sensitivity because of increased livestock and poultry, which have been protected against climate change by technologies such as heating and cooling of abodes for livestock and poultry. The crops and speciality products are also made climate resilient with irrigation. The summary of these findings is that increased climate sensitivity in one region may be more than compensated by a lack of sensitivity or reduced sensitivity in other regions to drive national-level TFP increases with a combination of regional choices and specializations. Growth in TFP is explained by advances in technology like access to deep groundwater, refrigeration and large-scale irrigation technology. The dominance of US agriculture across the world can be traced back to sustained investments made in research, extension and development. These have yielded various advances like breeding technology and food processing. There is also diffusion from other investments in satellites and smartphones, weather and climate forecasting, information technology, etc. The US accounts for only about 20 percent of the global investment in agricultural R&D but produces over 40 percent and 38 percent, respectively, of the worlds corn and soybeans. For a developing country like India where more than 60 percent of the employment is generated by the agricultural sector, which is at mercy of a decreasing mean monsoon with an increase in climate extremes, TFP offers the best metric to measure the climate sensitivity of its vastly inhomogeneous agricultural sector. More importantly, it may also be the best metric for developing the most optimal regional specialisations for managing food production without losing sight of its water and energy demands as well. Selections of crops, speciality products, and livestock are now being driven purely by economic incentives and are supported by unsustainable exploitation of resources such as groundwater. Some policies may, in fact, have unintended consequences. India also needs to develop effective policies and strategies for optimizing food production without jeopardising its own INDC targets. Tracking its agricultural enterprise with the most appropriate metric is a basic imperative. Mapping Indias agricultural TFP for the historic period and analysing its seasonal and regional variability and trends may serve these goals effectively. The author is a Professor of Atmospheric & Oceanic Science and Earth System Science at the University of Maryland, currently a Visiting Professor at IIT Bombay. tech2 News Staff Researchers at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras are developing indigenous processes for efficient recovery of oil from mature offshore wells in the country. Collaborating with research laboratories in Australia, the researchers are studying the efficacy of an emerging enhanced oil recovery method called Low-Salinity Enhanced Oil Recovery (LSEOR). Domestic crude oil production is currently insufficient to meet India's energy demands, said Jitendra Sangwai, Professor, Department of Ocean Engineering, IIT Madras. He said Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) has been looking at Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques to boost oil and gas output from old and matured fields. Leveraging on modern techniques such as LSEOR could enable the country to meet the expected output. The research, published in Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, and Energy and Fuels journal, can help understand and optimise the technique and develop indigenous processes for efficient recovery of oil from mature offshore wells in India. "Our research aims to develop indigenous methods for recovery of crude oil from geological reservoirs, which is a complex process," Sangwai said. "There is still much that needs to be understood in the use of LSEOR methods. We do not yet have a clear idea on the mechanism of wettability alteration that can be caused by factors such as oil composition, salt levels in the water, the acidity of the crude oil, mineralogy of the rock and other factors," he said. There have been many studies since the 1990s all over the world, aimed at improving the wettability of oil-bearing rocks for better recovery through water injection. One way to do this is by reducing the salinity or salt content of seawater that is injected into the rock because the presence of certain divalent cations can change the wettability of the rock. LSEOR has been gaining interest in recent years for better oil recovery from offshore reservoirs. Oil is extracted from offshore reservoirs through the water injection process, a secondary oil recovery method, in which, seawater is injected into the oil-bearing porous rocks, typically limestone and sandstone under the sea and the water pushes the oil out. The efficiency of the process depends upon the wettability of the oil-bearing rock, researchers said. Although limestone and sandstone are water wettable rocks by nature, they can become hydrophobic or water repellent due to their oil content. This results in poor wetting and inefficient oil extraction. The team has investigated the effects of varying the salt concentrations in water to understand the effect of various ions on the wettability of quartz surface as quartz is the most important rock-forming mineral in sandstone reservoirs. The researchers also added organic acids and bases to model oil to test the effect of acidity and basicity of oil on wettability during LSEOR. In one study, Sangwai and his research student, Abhijit Kakati found that a reduced concentration of divalent cations such as calcium and magnesium in water can make the quartz less oil wettable, while sodium ions seem to have the opposite effect. Similarly, the presence of acidic and basic substances in the oil also reduced water wettability, especially in the presence of salts. In a parallel study, Sangwai's team, along with his research student Nilesh Jha, also studied the effect of adding surfactants and nanoparticles to low salinity water to alter the wettability of sandstone. Surfactants can reduce the interfacial tension between the oil and water, and therefore make the rock more water wettable, but the surfactant itself can be absorbed by the rock. This can be prevented by adding nanoparticles, particles that are 80,000 times smaller than the width of human hair. The nanoparticles, when added in right amounts, are co-absorbed on the rock, thereby reducing the surfactant absorption. The team, in collaboration with researchers from Curtin University and Edith Cowan University of Australia, found that salts can mediate the absorption of the nanoparticles on the sandstone. They hypothesised that there is interplay among divalent cationic bridges that form between the rock surface, the nanoparticles and the surfactant, which alters the wettability of the sandstone. Control of the nanoparticle surfactant ratio in LSEOR can enhance the efficiency of oil recovery, researchers said. tech2 News Staff In the ongoing search for planets similar to Earth in size and condition, scientists just made a big sweep: eighteen newly-discovered planets beyond the solar system, including one of the smallest known exoplanets and another that may be habitable. Previous surveys had overlooked these exoplanets due to their small size, according to researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (MPS) in Germany. The research, published in two papers in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics re-analysed data collected by NASA's Kepler Telescope along with a more sensitive new method to detect exoplanets developed by the team. Also read: NASA retires Kepler telescope after nine years of exoplanet hunts and discoveries The study estimates that this new technique called the transit least-squares survey opens the doors to discovering over 100 additional exoplanets in data that the Kepler mission has already collected, according to the study. As for future discoveries of new worlds in our solar system's neighbourhood, scientists estimate that there are around 4,000 planets orbiting stars outside our solar system. Of them, 96 percent of them appear to be significantly larger than our Earth, with most comparable with gas giants like Neptune or Jupiter. While the percentage is overwhelmingly skewed towards massive-sized exoplanets, it may differ quite a bit in reality, since small planets are much harder to track down than big ones. Exoplanets that are relatively small are fascinating targets for Earth-like, potentially habitable planets outside the solar system. The smallest of the eighteen in the study is only 69 percent Earth's size and the largest of them only twice as large as the Earth. For exoplanets, one style doesn't fit all Scientists often use the "transit method" to look for stars that create periodic drops in brightness as it passes in front of its star. If a star happens to have a planet whose orbital plane is aligned with the line of sight from Earth, the planet occults a small fraction of the stellar light as it passes in front of the star once per orbit. This doesn't work all that well in the case of small planets, though, which are way harder to spot. The effect they have on a star's visible light is so faint that fluctuations and noise from space that comes with any kind of space observation render the method useless. Now, the team has shown that the transit method can be improved considerably if a more realistic light curve is assumed in the search algorithm. The new algorithm looks for characteristic, gradual dimming and recovery like you would expect from an exoplanet of a smaller size. This makes the new transit search algorithm much more sensitive to small planets the size of the Earth. "Our new algorithm helps to draw a more realistic picture of the exoplanet population in space," Michael Hippke from the Sonneberg Observatory told PTI. "This method constitutes a significant step forward, especially in the search for Earth-like planets," he added. Wet, new worlds "In most of the planetary systems that we studied, the new planets are the smallest," Kai Rodenbeck, one of the study's authors from the University of Goettingen, Germany told PTI. Most of the newly-formed planets orbit their star closer than their previously-known planetary companions. For this reason, they also have surface temperatures far hotter than 100 degrees Celsius some even going up to 1,000 degrees Celsius. That said, there's one exception to this: small planets that orbit red dwarf stars in the so-called "habitable zone". At this suitable distance from its host star, there's a good chance the planet offers conditions for liquid water to exist on its surface a prerequisite for life (as we know it) on Earth. Press Trust of India Over the past year, there has been a rising incidence of fall armyworm (FAW) in corn crops across Africa and South America. This deadly pest can cause drastic damage to corn crops and can reduce yields by up to 40 percent. Such damage can be highly devastating for smallholder farmers as it directly impacts their crop yields and farm incomes and stunts their livelihood. In India, the fall armyworm was first reported in July 2018 in Karnataka. Within a year, the pest has spread on an epidemic scale in more than ten corn-producing states of India. Farmers need timely, effective and innovative measures to control and eradicate FAW. VyavaSahaaya, a Mysuru-based Agri-food open innovation platform, has announced a technology challenge to combat FAW in corn, in collaboration with Bayer CropScience Limited, a leading player in Crop Protection. The challenge is open till 16 June 2019, to start-ups and students of engineering colleges. Teams of two to five members are invited to develop digital tools that can offer timely and context-specific information to enable farmers to track, spot and treat the FAW pest in their cornfields. The top two entries will win funding to cover the cost of development of their digital tool/solution. Bayer CropScience Limited will also partner with one of the winners to commercialize the digital solution across key corn-producing states of India. For more details about the technology challenge, visit the Vyavasahaaya website. About Vyavasahaaya VyavaSahaayaa, product of Aasalabs Technology Private Limited (A startup incubated at Deshpande Foundation's Hubballi Sandbox), is an Agri-Food Open Innovation platform, which enables problem owners such as foundations, corporates, research bodies to propose business, technology and social challenges that are complex or novel or have no established best practice approach and problem solvers to design actionable solutions. The ultimate objective is to fundamentally Open and Transform the Agri-Food Innovation Processes and at the same time create a positive impact on the planet, people and society. VyavaSahaaya has a registered office in Mysuru, Karnataka. About Bayer Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. Its products and services are designed to benefit people by supporting efforts to overcome the major challenges presented by a growing and ageing global population. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. Bayer is committed to the principles of sustainable development, and the Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2018, the Group employed around 117,000 people and had sales of 39.6 billion euros. Capital expenditures amounted to 2.6 billion euros, R&D expenses to 5.2 billion euros. For more information, go to www.bayer.com The Conversation A large crack, stretching several kilometres, made a sudden appearance recently in south-western Kenya. The tear, which continues to grow, caused part of the Nairobi-Narok highway to collapse. Initially, the appearance of the crack was linked to tectonic activity along the East African Rift. But although geologists now think that this feature is most likely an erosional gully, questions remain as to why it has formed in the location that it did and whether its appearance is at all connected to the ongoing East African Rift. For example, the crack could be the result of the erosion of soft soils infilling an old rift-related fault. The Earth is an ever-changing planet, even though in some respects change might be almost unnoticeable to us. Plate tectonics is a good example of this. But every now and again something dramatic happens and leads to renewed questions about the African continent splitting in two. The Earths lithosphere (formed by the crust and the upper part of the mantle) is broken up into a number of tectonic plates. These plates are not static, but move relative to each other at varying speeds, gliding over a viscous asthenosphere. Exactly what mechanism or mechanisms are behind their movement is still debated, but are likely to include convection currents within the asthenosphere and the forces generated at the boundaries between plates. These forces do not simply move the plates around, they can also cause plates to rupture, forming a rift and potentially leading to the creation of new plate boundaries. The East African Rift system is an example of where this is currently happening. The East African Rift Valley stretches over 3,000km from the Gulf of Aden in the north towards Zimbabwe in the south, splitting the African plate into two unequal parts: the Somali and Nubian plates. Activity along the eastern branch of the rift valley, running along Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania, became evident when the large crack suddenly appeared in south-western Kenya. Why does rifting happen? When the lithosphere is subject to a horizontal extensional force it will stretch, becoming thinner. Eventually, it will rupture, leading to the formation of a rift valley. This process is accompanied by surface manifestations along the rift valley in the form of volcanism and seismic activity. Rifts are the initial stage of a continental break-up and, if successful, can lead to the formation of a new ocean basin. An example of a place on Earth where this has happened is the South Atlantic ocean, which resulted from the break up of South America and Africa around 138m years ago ever noticed how their coastlines match like pieces of the same puzzle? Continental rifting requires the existence of extensional forces great enough to break the lithosphere. The East African Rift is described as an active type of rift, in which the source of these stresses lies in the circulation of the underlying mantle. Beneath this rift, the rise of a large mantle plume is doming the lithosphere upwards, causing it to weaken as a result of the increase in temperature, undergo stretching and breaking by faulting. Evidence for the existence of this hotter-than-normal mantle plume has been found in geophysical data and is often referred to as the African Superswell. This superplume is not only a widely-accepted source of the pull-apart forces that are resulting in the formation of the rift valley but has also been used to explain the anomalously high topography of the Southern and Eastern African Plateaus. Breaking up isnt easy Rifts exhibit a very distinctive topography, characterised by a series of fault-bounded depressions surrounded by higher terrain. In the East African system, a series of aligned rift valleys separated from each other by large bounding faults can be clearly seen from space. Not all of these fractures formed at the same time, but followed a sequence starting in the Afar region in northern Ethiopia at around 30m years ago and propagating southwards towards Zimbabwe at a mean rate of between 2.5-5cm a year. Although most of the time rifting is unnoticeable to us, the formation of new faults, fissures, and cracks or renewed movement along old faults as the Nubian and Somali plates continue moving apart can result in earthquakes. However, in East Africa, most of this seismicity is spread over a wide zone across the rift valley and is of relatively small magnitude. Volcanism running alongside is a further surface manifestation of the ongoing process of the continental break up and the proximity of the hot molten asthenosphere to the surface. A timeline in action The East African Rift is unique in that it allows us to observe different stages of rifting along its length. To the south, where the rift is young, extension rates are low and faulting occurs over a wide area. Volcanism and seismicity are limited. Towards the Afar region, however, the entire rift valley floor is covered with volcanic rocks. This suggests that, in this area, the lithosphere has thinned almost to the point of complete break-up. When this happens, a new ocean will begin forming by the solidification of magma in the space created by the broken-up plates. Eventually, over a period of tens of millions of years, seafloor spreading will progress along the entire length of the rift. The ocean will flood in and, as a result, the African continent will become smaller and there will be a large island in the Indian Ocean composed of parts of Ethiopia and Somalia, including the Horn of Africa. Dramatic events, such as sudden motorway-splitting faults can give continental rifting a sense of urgency. However, rifting is a very slow process that, most of the time, goes about splitting Africa without anybody even noticing. This article was updated and the headline changed on April 7 to reflect ongoing discussion by geologists about the cause of the large crack that appeared on the East Africa Rift and whether its location is related to the African continent split. Lucia Perez Diaz, Postdoctoral Researcher, Fault Dynamics Research Group, Royal Holloway This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe, who accompanied Trump on the visit to the Kaga, has boosted defense spending since taking office in December 2012. Tokyo: US president Donald Trump expects that Japans military will reinforce US forces throughout Asia and elsewhere, he said on Tuesday, as the key US ally upgrades the ability of its forces to operate further from its shores. Trumps comments followed his inspection of Japans largest warship, the Kaga, a helicopter carrier designed to carry submarine-hunting helicopters to distant waters. The vessel, which will soon be upgraded to handle F-35B short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jets, sailed to India on a flag-flying mission last year, going through the contested South China Sea, much of which is claimed by Beijing. With this extraordinary new equipment the Kaga will help our nations defend against a range of complex threats in the region and far beyond, Trump said in a speech on the ships hangar deck. The refit of the vessel, and its sister ship, the Izumo, is expected to bolster US forces operating from Japan by providing a refueling platform for U.S. Marine F-35Bs. Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe, who accompanied Trump on the visit to the Kaga, has boosted defense spending since taking office in December 2012, stretching the pacifist constitution to ease limits on troop activities abroad. He also wants to revise the post-World War II charter to recognize the existence of Japans military. The Kaga and the Izumo are the biggest aircraft carriers Japan has operated since its wartime defeat, but its Self Defence Forces designate them as destroyers, as constitutional curbs forbid possession of weapons that could be used to attack other countries. Trump is winding up a four-day State visit meant to underscore the US-Japan alliance, but shadowed by friction over Tokyos big trade surplus with America. On Monday he told a news conference that Washington supported Japans efforts to improve its defense capability and touted Tokyos purchases of American military equipment. Japan last year unveiled a plan to buy 45 more F-35 stealth fighters, including some B variants, worth about $4 billion, adding to the 42 jets it has already ordered. Japan says it eventually wants to field a force of around 150 of the advanced fighter jets, as it tries to keep ahead of Chinas advances in military technology. This purchase would give Japan the largest fleet of F-35s of any of our allies, Trump said on the Kaga, docked at the Yokosuka naval base near Tokyo. The base is the headquarters of the Japanese fleet and also the home port of the US Seventh Fleet. By Allison Martell MARKHAM, Ontario (Reuters) - Two former ministers who quit Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government this year over his handling of a scandal said on Monday they would run as independents in an election this October. Jody Wilson-Raybould and Jane Philpott resigned amid allegations that senior Trudeau officials tried to interfere in a corporate corruption case by leaning on Wilson-Raybould when she was justice minister. Trudeau, facing the biggest crisis of his tenure, later kicked them out of the ruling Liberal caucus, citing their lack of support By Allison Martell MARKHAM, Ontario (Reuters) - Two former ministers who quit Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government this year over his handling of a scandal said on Monday they would run as independents in an election this October. Jody Wilson-Raybould and Jane Philpott resigned amid allegations that senior Trudeau officials tried to interfere in a corporate corruption case by leaning on Wilson-Raybould when she was justice minister. Trudeau, facing the biggest crisis of his tenure, later kicked them out of the ruling Liberal caucus, citing their lack of support. Both women, speaking at separate events, said they would press for more openness in Ottawa and also stressed the importance of fighting climate change. They face serious challenges. Canadian politics is dominated by the major parties and very few legislators are elected as independents, in part because they lack resources to raise funds and campaign. That said, if one or both of them succeed, they could have some influence. Polls indicate the result of the election might well be a minority government, which means the prime minister will need the support of legislators from outside his party to govern. "In the right circumstances of course I would support a minority government in the broad sense," Philpott said after making her announcement in Markham, a town north of Toronto. Philpott only just won her parliamentary constituency for the Liberals in the 2015 election that brought Trudeau to power and on paper the official opposition Conservatives would look to be favorites for her seat. Wilson-Raybould pulled off a much more comfortable victory in British Columbia and looks to have the better chance. She told reporters she would "work with whichever government is in power as well as with all members of parliament, no matter their political stripe, for the betterment ... of our country." (Reporting by Allison Martell and David Ljunggren,; Writing by David Ljunggren; Editing by Phil Berlowitz) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. By Khalil Ashawi IDLIB CITY, Syria (Reuters) - Russian-backed Syrian government forces will be able to advance all the way to the Turkish border if they pierce rebel defences in the northwest, a top opposition official said, urging Turkey to do more to shield the area from a major attack. By Khalil Ashawi IDLIB CITY, Syria (Reuters) - Russian-backed Syrian government forces will be able to advance all the way to the Turkish border if they pierce rebel defences in the northwest, a top opposition official said, urging Turkey to do more to shield the area from a major attack. The month-long onslaught is the most serious escalation of the war between President Bashar al-Assad and his enemies since last summer. Syrian government air strikes and barrel bombing backed by Russian air power have uprooted around 250,000 people in the territory, the last significant rebel stronghold. Fawaz Hilal, head of the "Salvation Government" that runs Idlib province, expressed confidence that opposition fighters gathered in the Idlib region from all over Syria would be able resist the onslaught. "This ferocious attack is a bone-breaking battle. If the regime is able to break our defensive lines in northern Hama and southern Idlib it will not stop until it reaches the borders," Hilal told Reuters in an interview. His government, backed by the powerful Tahrir al-Sham jihadist group, had called on its employees to help shoulder the "military burden" through building sandbag defences, manning front lines, financial support or any other help. "We are all concerned with repelling this attack," he said. The bombardment has killed 229 civilians and injured 727 since April 28, according to The Union of Medical Care and Relief Organisations (UOSSM), a U.S.-based medical NGO. Hilal spoke at his office in Idlib city, the provincial capital where life has continued as normal as the offensive has mostly targeted front-line areas to the south. "We are optimistic despite this military campaign. If we weren't, we would not be here today," Hilal said. The streets are busy with cars and pedestrians, and before sunset street vendors come out in large numbers to sell food to Muslims observing the daytime fasting for Ramadan. Hilal noted Idlib's defences had been boosted by rebels forced from other parts of Syria such as Ghouta, Homs and Deraa when Assad took their towns and villages. "Those lads have great combat doctrine," he said. Tahrir al-Sham is the most powerful insurgent group in the region. It was formerly known as the Nusra Front, al Qaeda's Syrian wing, until it broke away and renamed itself in 2016. The United Nations designates it a terrorist group. Other rebels taking part in the defence of the area include Turkey-backed groups. Senior opposition and rebel sources said on Saturday Turkey had sent fresh supplies of weaponry to these groups to help them repel the assault. URGING TURKISH ACTION Turkey has been working with Russia for several years to de-escalate or contain Syria's conflict in the northwest. One of its aims is to avoid another refugee influx: Turkey already hosts 3.6 million Syrians. But many of those recently displaced are sheltering at the border calling on Turkey to open the frontier. Much of the recent shelling has hit an area that was declared a demilitarised "buffer zone" last year by Russia and Turkey. Under the agreement, heavy weapons and jihadists were supposed to leave the zone. The Syrian government says it is responding to Nusra Front violations and attacks on government-held areas. Turkey has a dozen military bases in the Idlib region, also established in agreement with Russia. One of these was hit earlier this month in shelling from Syrian government-held territory, with two Turkish soldiers wounded. Hilal said the Turkish positions had been allowed to be established in the hope their presence would provide protection for the people. "But the reality says that these positions are not able to protect themselves today," he said. "We hope that the Turkish side will ... defend these positions they set up and the areas they entered and prevent Russian and Syrian jets from flying in the areas where they are present, and the shelling of surrounding areas," he said. "When these positions and the areas around them are shelled with Turkish soldiers wounded it raises a number of question marks," he said, adding that Ankara should clarify "their role and what they want from these positions." (Writing by Tom Perry in Beirut; Editing by Mark Heinrich) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Photo: Wayne Moore Electric vehicle owners will have a few more options when it comes to charging up your vehicles in Kelowna. The city and FortisBC have entered into a partnership to add four new DC Fast Chargers around the city. These stations will provide an 80 per cent charge in just 30 minutes. The stations were contingent on grants from both the federal and provincial governments, which have been approved. The grants mean the $350,000 cost of the four stations will be picked up through Natural Resources Canada ($150,000), the province ($75,000) and FortisBC ($75,000). Kelowna International Airport, which had planned to add two charging stations of its own, was also included in the funding application. YLW will pay the remaining $50,000, far less than if it had gone alone. The stations will be installed later this spring. One will be placed at the Kelowna Museum parking lot, next to two other Level 2 chargers, one at Centennial Park parking lot and two at the airport. The city is providing the land for the stations while Fortis will be responsible for installation and ongoing operations. Fortis will charge $9 for a 30-minute charge. "This project supports the action to develop a community-wide EV strategy which is in the Community Climate Action Plan," said sustainability co-ordinator Tracy Guidi. "It also delivers and directly aligns with two of the newly endorsed council priorities, environmental protection and transportation and mobility, with the goal of reducing GHG emissions and embracing emerging technology to make it easier to get around." The new charging stations are on top of numerous other stations available through private businesses in the city. By Jeff Mason TOKYO (Reuters) - U.S. By Jeff Mason TOKYO (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump doubled down on his support for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's scathing view of former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden on Monday, dismissing criticism that he was siding with a dictator over a fellow American. "Well, Kim Jong Un made a statement that Joe Biden is a low IQ individual. He probably is, based on his record. I think I agree with him on that," Trump told a news conference in Tokyo. The comments reinforced a tweet that Trump sent on Saturday with a similar message, and drew renewed criticism of the president. North Korea's state-run news agency issued a stinging attack last week on Biden, who has been critical of the isolated state. Trump has targeted Biden with increasing criticism as the former vice president rises in polls for the Democratic presidential nomination to challenge Trump in 2020. The president often derides his political opponents, but his tweet on Sunday and his comments on Monday were notable because he issued them while abroad and aligned himself with Kim, considered a brutal dictator by many. The comments came during the U.S. Memorial Day weekend. The federal holiday remembers and honors people who have died while serving in the U.S. armed forces. "We're going to have to retire the word 'unprecedented' during Trump's presidency," said Larry Sabato, presidential historian and director of the University of Virginia's Center for Politics. "It's becoming the new normal. And disgraceful, of course," he wrote on Twitter. One of Trump's fellow Republicans, U.S. Representative Adam Kinzinger, called out the president on Sunday for "praising a dictator" and attacking Biden over the Memorial Day weekend. "It's just plain wrong," Kinzinger, a military veteran, said on Twitter. Biden's campaign and the Democratic National Committee did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Pete Buttigieg, a Democratic candidate for president and Navy veteran, was also critical on Monday. "Kim Jong Un is a murderous dictator and Vice President Biden served this country honorably. It's just one more example, though, of the way that this president tries to draw attention to himself by saying things that shock the conscience ..." Trump has sought to build a strong relationship with the North Korean leader in the hope that North Korea would agree to denuclearize. Trump also knocked Biden and former President Barack Obama on Monday for their efforts to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon. Trump pulled the United States out of a nuclear deal Iran sealed with Washington and other foreign powers. "Joe Biden was a disaster, his administration with President Obama, they were basically a disaster when it came to so many things, whether it was economy, whether it was military ... no matter what it was, they had a lot of problems," Trump said, when asked about criticism that he was favoring Kim over the former vice president. "So, I'm not a fan." A commentary by North Korea's KCNA state media on Tuesday slammed Biden for "rhetoric slandering the supreme leadership of the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)." "What he uttered is just sophism of an imbecile bereft of elementary quality as a human being, let alone a politician," the North Korean news agency said. (Additional reporting by Matt Spetalnick, Michelle Price and David Brunnstrom in Washington and Peter Szekely in New York; Editing by Peter Graff and Jeffrey Benkoe) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Israel faced the growing possibility Monday of a new national poll despite a general election last month, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition talks remain deadlocked ahead of a looming deadline. Jerusalem: Israelis faced the growing possibility Monday of a new national poll despite a general election last month, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition talks remain deadlocked ahead of a looming deadline. Netanyahu, who risks a major setback if he fails to reach an agreement before Wednesday night's deadline, spoke in Israel's parliament and said it was still possible a deal could be brokered to avoid "unnecessary" elections. But he spoke shortly after parliament took the first step towards holding new polls, by preliminarily approving a law to dissolve itself. Three more rounds of voting are needed for final approval. Earlier in the day as Netanyahu failed to convince a right-wing party leader to compromise and allow a deal to be reached, his close ally US President Donald Trump offered his support. "Hoping things will work out with Israel's coalition formation and Bibi and I can continue to make the alliance between America and Israel stronger than ever. A lot more to do!" Trump, currently visiting Japan, said on Twitter, using Netanyahu's nickname. Ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman has prevented a deal by refusing to budge from a key demand and he showed no sign of backing down on Monday. Holding elections so close to one another would be unprecedented in Israel, and there have been concerns over the cost and prolonged political paralysis that would result. Netanyahu sought to place full blame on Lieberman, who rejected the assertion. "There's no reason to drag the country to unnecessary elections that will cost a fortune and paralyse us all for another half a year," Netanyahu said in his address in which he also referenced Trump's tweet. Lieberman said he had already made concessions and was not prepared to go further, adding he was ready for new elections if needed. The former defence minister is seeking a guarantee that legislation he supports aimed at having ultra-Orthodox Jews perform mandatory military service like other Jewish Israelis be approved without changes. His party controls five seats in parliament and Netanyahu needs his support for the coalition he is seeking. "It's a matter of principle," Lieberman told journalists, calling Netanyahu's inability to form a government a "huge, unprecedented failure." The issue of military service for ultra-Orthodox Jews is a highly sensitive one in Israeli politics and the bill is opposed by ultra-Orthodox parties, who control 16 seats in parliament and are also slated to form part of Netanyahu's coalition. April elections left Netanyahu's Likud party along with its right-wing and religious allies with 65 of 120 seats in parliament, putting him in position for a fifth term and on track to become Israel's longest-serving premier later this year. He is at the same time facing possible indictment for fraud, breach of trust and bribery in the months ahead. A pre-indictment hearing is expected to be held in early October, and there have been reports that Netanyahu is seeking legislation in the new parliament that could result in him being granted immunity from prosecution. If a coalition deal is not reached by Wednesday night's deadline, Israeli president Reuven Rivlin could give Netanyahu another two weeks if he concludes the premier is the only person capable of forming a government. Alternatively, Rivlin could ask another member of parliament to form a government. Netanyahu is widely seen as preferring new elections rather than leaving the choice up to Rivlin, due to the possibility someone else could be selected. Netanyahu could also seek to form a minority government. On May 28, 1998, Pakistan carried out five nuclear tests at Chaghi in Balochistan province during Nawaz Sharif's tenure as prime minister. Lahore: As Pakistan Tuesday marked the 21st anniversary of its atomic tests, jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif said that his decision to make the country a nuclear power has made its defence "invincible." On May 28, 1998, Pakistan carried out five nuclear tests at Chaghi in Balochistan province during Sharif's tenure as prime minister. The day is since observed as Youm-e-Takbeer in Pakistan. Pakistan's nuclear tests came days after India successfully carried out the atomic tests in Pokhran on 11 May. "May 28 is an unforgettable day in the history of Pakistan. On this day, the defence of the country was made invincible when Pakistan emerged on the world map as a nuclear power," 69-year-old Sharif, supremo of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), said in a message which was shared on his party's Twitter handle. "Youm-e-Takbeer is a day of nation's honour. A sign of nation's unprecedented bravery, it also gives a message to the country's enemies that there would be dire consequences in case of any misadventure against Pakistan," he said in the message from the Kot Lakhpat jail where he is currently undergoing a seven-year-sentence in a corruption case. Sharif said his government was threatened with economic sanctions in case of the atomic tests. He also said that Pakistan was offered billions of dollars for not conducting the tests. "But I accepted all the challenges and went ahead with the tests," he said. The PML-N chief claimed that external forces hatched conspiracies against him for making the country an economic power for his approval of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor due to which he was being punished: first forced to go into exile and later sentenced to jail. "In the solitary confinement, I assure the nation that I will never compromise on the constitutional rights of the people, people's right to vote and country's security and sovereignty," he said. 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 28 July, 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. Sri Lanka on Tuesday signed a deal with India and Japan to develop a deep-sea container terminal in the country that has seen increasing forays by China which has taken a strategic port on a 99-year lease that has worried New Delhi Colombo: Sri Lanka on Tuesday signed a deal with India and Japan to develop a deep-sea container terminal in the country that has seen increasing forays by China which has taken a strategic port on a 99-year lease that has worried New Delhi. The three countries will jointly build the East Container Terminal at the Port of Colombo. Sri Lanka's Port Authority (SLPA) said that around 70 percent of Colombo Port's transshipment business is India related while Japan had cooperated since the 1980s to develop the port's container terminals. SLPA retains 100 percent ownership of the East Container Terminal. The Terminal Operations Company (TOC) conducting all East Container Terminal operations is jointly owned; Sri Lanka retains a 51 percent stake, and the joint venture partners purchase a 49 percent stake. "As a hub of the Indian ocean, the development of Sri Lanka and openness of its ports are of great importance. Colombo port is the leading port in region. This joint project reflects the long standing goodwill and cooperation among the three countries," the SLPA said. The three countries are to work out details of the deal at joint working group meetings to be held in the future. The involvement of India and Japan is the project is being seen as a big development aimed at neutralising the growing influence of China, which has poured money into the South Asian island nation under its mammoth Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) infrastructure plan. Sri Lanka has been one of the countries which became part of the China's Belt and Road Initiative, an ambitious plan announced in 2013 by President Xi Jinping to build an estimated $1 trillion of infrastructure to support increased trade and economic ties and further China's interests around the globe. However, China's politically controversial investments in Sri Lanka became an election issue in 2015 and fuelled infighting between politicians in the capital. India, the US and several other countries have been highlighting the concerns over the BRI projects which may leave a number of smaller countries in debt traps. The concerns grew louder after China took over Sri Lanka's Hambantota port on a 99-year lease. India's involvement in the latest project also became a reason for political infighting in the country. In September last year, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena's reported opposition to India being given a stake in the East Container Terminal had created a political uproar. During a heated argument with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in the Cabinet, Sirisena had argued against partnering India on the basis that it would be lucrative for Sri Lanka to do it themselves. Sirisena was backing his Freedom Party accusations against his coalition partner Wickremesinghe's government of selling state assets. The dispute was one of the reasons which led to Sirisena's sacking of Wickremesinghe late October. Wickremesinghe was reinstated in December. In a statement, the Taliban said that the group is to attend a conference marking 100 years of diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and Russia on 28 May, followed by discussions with Afghan politicians about the future of the country on 29 May. Kabul: A delegation of Taliban officials is set to attend a two-day meeting with Afghan politicians in Moscow this week, officials confirmed on Monday, as fighting continues to rage in Afghanistan amid troubled peace talks between the United States and the militants. In a statement, the Taliban said that the group is to attend a conference marking 100 years of diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and Russia on 28 May, followed by discussions with Afghan politicians about the future of the country on 29 May. The 14-member Taliban delegation is led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, in what will be his first international trip since being freed from a Pakistani prison in October 2018. Meanwhile, among the Afghan politicians, former President Hamid Karzai and chairman of the High Peace Council (HPC) Mohammad Karim Khalili are expected to participate in Tuesday's meeting that focuses on ending the 18-year long war in Afghanistan. A spokesman for the Afghan president's office told Al Jazeera that the Afghan ambassador in Moscow would also attend Tuesday's ceremony but it was unclear whether he would meet the Taliban delegation. The Taliban, which has been in peace negotiations with Washington since last year, has repeatedly refused to meet President Ashraf Ghani's government, calling it a "puppet" of the West. An "intra-Afghan dialogue" that was to be held in Doha in April was cancelled after the Taliban objected to a new delegation of Afghan officials selected to attend the talks. After six rounds of talks between the US and the Taliban in Doha ended in May, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, said that "faster progress" was needed as "the conflict rages" and "innocent people die". The Taliban and the Afghan government have said that they have agreed a "draft framework" on an agreement for the US troop withdrawal and a guarantee that the Taliban would not harbour "terrorist" groups or allow them to use Afghanistan as a staging ground for global attacks. Photo: The Canadian Press Curtis Vey arrives at court in Prince Albert, Sask. A Saskatchewan judge has acquitted a man and a woman of conspiracy to murder their spouses after ruling a key audio recording is inadmissible as evidence. The judge entered the verdict Monday on what was supposed to be the start of trial for Curtis Vey and Angela Nicholson. A jury initially convicted them in 2016 and they were each sentenced to three years in prison. The Saskatchewan Court of Appeal, in ordering a new trial last year, said the judge didn't make it clear jurors must be satisfied beyond a reasonable doubt that the two intended to commit murder. Court heard that Vey, who is from Wakaw, Sask., and Nicholson, who is from nearby Melfort, were having an affair. They were arrested in 2013 after Vey's wife made a secret recording that appeared to suggest the pair was plotting to kill her and Nicholson's husband. The jury heard that Vey's wife was to die in a house fire and Nicholson's husband was to be drugged and disappear. Vey and Nicholson argued there was no intent behind their words. Vey told police that he knew his wife was recording him and talked about the murder plot to give his wife and family something to talk about. Nicholson told officers she never intended to carry out the plan. Her lawyer, Ron Piche, told reporters outside the courthouse in Prince Albert, Sask. that the public needs to know his client didn't get off on a technicality. She had no genuine intention of killing anyone, he said. He argued the secret recording on an iPod violated the pair's charter rights because they didn't know they were being taped. Police also had warrants to search for computers but not the iPod, Piche added. "That omission proved fatal in terms of the Crown's ability to rely on it," Piche said. Crown prosecutor Lori O'Connor said her office will examine the case and determine whether to appeal. Vey's wife, Brigitte Vey, said outside the court that she is OK with the acquittal. "I'm at peace that it's finally over." Photo: The Canadian Press D-Day veteran Martin Maxwell Six days before D-Day, Max Meisels and his fellow Jewish soldiers got an order from their commanding officer. "If the Germans catch you, you're dead," the officer told them. "You have 10 minutes. Go to the telephone book and get a new name." Meisels emerged from that meeting as Martin Maxwell, the name he carried throughout his time in the British army and bears to this day. Maxwell went on to play a key role in the early hours of D-Day, the opening salvo of the bloody Allied invasion that ultimately led to the defeat of the German army. At the time, Maxwell felt he had helped strike a decisive blow against the rabid anti-Semitism that fuelled Adolf Hitler's rise and led to the killings of millions of Jews, including his own relatives. But today, as hate crimes against Jews surge dramatically, the longtime Toronto resident and decorated veteran isn't so sure. "I feel like I'm reliving the 1930s," Maxwell, 95, said in an interview. "The rise of anti-Semitism is something unbelievable." Orphaned at a young age, Maxwell watched with despair as the Jewish-run orphanages in Vienna that housed him and his siblings were closed in the wake of Germany's 1938 annexation of Austria. He endured the sight of relatives being rounded up by German officers, never to be heard from again. When he secured passage to England through a program that rescued nearly 10,000 children from Nazi-occupied countries, he eagerly waited until he was old enough to join the British military. He was closer to the action than most when D-Day dawned, having flown in with a group of fellow glider pilots under cover of darkness in a stealth mission to destroy one of the bridges German troops relied upon to bring them reinforcements in the looming battle. Maxwell shares wartime recollections with the Memory Project Speakers Bureau in a bid to ensure their efforts were not wasted. Yet he keeps tracking the rising tide of anti-Semitism through current events at home and abroad, including two deadly shootings at synagogues in Pittsburgh and Southern California. He has watched the rise of religious violence with deepening chagrin, quoting a frequent epitaph on the graves of soldiers proclaiming that they sacrificed their todays for survivors' tomorrows. "If these young men would get up today and look at the world and what is happening, not only against the Jews mosques are being attacked, churches are attacked they would say 'what the hell have you done with the tomorrows we gave you?'" Statistics Canada documented a 47 per cent rise in police-reported hate crimes between 2016 and 2017, with incidents involving Jews surging 63 per cent and coming second only to the 151 per cent spike in attacks against Muslims. A report on anti-Semitic incidents in 2018 prepared by the League for Human Rights, the advocacy arm of B'nai Brith Canada, documented a 16.5 per cent increase over levels recorded in 2017. The report also noted anti-Semitic incidents had climbed steadily for the past three years and have reached levels not seen since 1982. Photo: West Kelowna Fire As temperatures rise in the Okanagan, fire danger continues to climb. On Tuesday, the BC Wildfire Service website listed the fire danger rating for the Okanagan as four out of five, or high. However, when reached by phone, staff said the rating is moderate, or a three. Environment Canada says weather will be hot and dry all week, with temperatures hovering around 30 C. ''It has been quite a dry month so far, and It is concerning that it looks like that will continue," meteorologist Bobby Sekhon said. On Tuesday morning, a small grass fire ignited in West Kelowna at a property on Deer Ridge Court. Firefighters were rushing to the scene when they received the good news that residents had successfully extinguished the small fire. The fire is out, it was put out by bystanders, said Fire Chief Jason Brolund. On Vancouver Island, an open burn prohibition is scheduled to start this week. BC Wildfire Service says starting Thursday, category two open burns will be prohibited throughout the Coastal Fire Centres jurisdiction. The Coastal Fire Centre covers all areas west of the Coast Mountains. In Kelowna, there is no open burning allowed within city limits. Campfires and outdoor wood burning appliances, including wood-fueled fire pits, are not permitted at any time. Smoking, including e-cigarettes and cannabis, is banned in all city and regional parks and beaches. To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on your cellphone. Fantastical monsters, daredevil youths and evil witches bound across every page of this beautiful new Folio edition of Calvinos comprehensive collection. An exquisite presentation. Layout, design, typeface, illustrations - an heirloom for any library, a prized set... Proud to be a part of it! Guillermo del Toro Storytelling is intrinsically linked to cultural identity, and for Italy this means Italo Calvino. To rectify the countrys lack of a written history of its folkloric traditions, the writer was commissioned to search the length and breadth of the land, to collate and retell the treasured tales that have shaped Italy folk heritage. Calvino collection is held in such high regard that, despite its relatively recent compilation, it is fondly and justifiably compared to those of his Northern European counterparts, such as the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen. Calvinos 200 tales are presented across two spectacular volumes featuring gold-blocked bindings and printed map endpapers that show each storys provenance. With illustrations drawing on Goyas Los Caprichos prints and an imitation snakeskin slipcase inspired by the shape-changing serpents in many of Calvinos tales, this is a truly exceptional collectors edition. Photo: Greater Vernon Chamber Greater Vernon Chamber general manager Dione Chambers (left) and board vice-president Krystin Kempton attend the B.C. Chamber of Commerce annual convention in Burnaby. The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerces campaign to have the distilled spirits sector treated progressively and fairly has been endorsed provincially, the chamber announced in a release. On May 25, delegates at the B.C. Chamber of Commerce conference in Burnaby approved a resolution from the Greater Vernon Chamber that calls on the federal government to reduce the excise tax on distilled spirits to $1.77 per litre on the first 150,000 litres of absolute alcohol, and to match the excise rate in the U.S. on an ongoing basis on an ongoing basis. We thank the B.C. chambers for their support and it reflects an interest in businesses not only being treated equitably but also being allowed to reach their full potential as a creator of jobs and a key linchpin in the economy, said Dione Chambers, Greater Vernon Chamber general manager. We have worked closely with the Dyck family at Vernons Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery and the Craft Distillers Guild of B.C. and we understand the regulatory challenges they experience, particularly when it comes to competition from the U.S. Currently, a distillery in Canada experiences an excise duty of $12.375 per litre of absolute alcohol, which is equivalent of $3.51 per 750-millilitre bottle of spirit at 40 per cent alcohol by volume. Reducing the excise tax would provide existing and new distilleries with funds that could be reinvested into additional equipment, labour, facilities and distribution channels. It would also mean additional opportunities for Canadas agricultural industry as distilleries purchase grains and fruit for alcohol production, said Chambers. We would hope that the federal government hears the collective voice of B.C. chambers of commerce on this issue and takes decisive action to reduce the financial burden on entrepreneurs and promote sustainable economic growth across Canada. The resolution will now go to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce with the backing of the B.C. Chamber and the Greater Vernon Chamber can advocate to the federal government with the support of the B.C. Chamber network. Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will attend the swearing-in ceremony of his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, scheduled to be held on May 30 in New Delhi, Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release on Tuesday. "At the invitation of Prime Minister of India H. E. Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Mr. K P Sharma Oli is paying an official visit to India to attend the former's swearing-in ceremony to be held on May 30, 2019 in New Delhi. The Rt. Hon. Prime Minister will leave Kathmandu for New Delhi on May 30, 2019," the statement read. Oli will be accompanied by his wife and other high-ranking government officials. The two leaders will be holding bilateral talks on May 31. Like SAARC leaders last time, heads of government from neighbouring BIMSTEC countries have been invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Modi for his second term. The decision to invite the leaders from the grouping is in line with the government's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, according to the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. Apart from BIMSTEC leaders, invitations have also been extended to Kyrgyzstan's President Sooronbay Jeenbekov, the current Chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and the Prime Minister of Mauritius Pravind Jugnauth, who was the Chief Guest at this year's Pravasi Bhartiya Divas. In 2014, when Modi won his first term, all the SAARC leaders, including the then Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attended the swearing-in. Member countries of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) include Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand besides India. -ANI Celebritys Soul Food Selects N3 Real Estate for its 200-Store National Roll-Out Fredrick Jacobs (right) and his wife Taja Jacobs are founders of Celebritys Soul Food Management Company May 28, 2019 // Franchising.com // Ocala, FL - Celebritys Soul Food, Beverly Hills, CA, has engaged N3 Real Estate and affiliates, Southlake, TX, as its exclusive national developer and master broker for the United States. N3 will be responsible for all aspects of Celebritys real estate selection and development process across the country. With 200 units planned within the next 24 months, founders Dr. Fredrick Jacobs (aka Dr. J, The Counselor) and Taja Jacobs, along with their franchisee partners, will bring soul food cuisine to the nation in a classy and elegant atmosphere that treats everyone as a star with celebrity status. Dr. Js philanthropic work will include hosting celebrity cooking classes with kids and families who are in need, in addition to creating donation days to help give back into communities where food is a top priority. Celebritys Soul Food is anticipating the opening of 200 locations with gross projected sales of $450 million dollars within the next 24 months. N3 is actively seeking endcaps (3,500SF) and free-standing restaurant locations (up to 7,000 SF) suitable for a fast-casual format in upscale areas across the U.S. Dominant retail centers and corridors required. Proximity to strong daytime and residential population, $60,000+ average household income and a minimum of 35,000 VPD is required. Centers and buildings chosen must compliment Celebritys sleek, modern design elements. We are very excited to partner with N3 Real Estate," stated Dr. Fredrick Jacobs, founder of Celebrity's Soul Food. "N3 not only understand real estate, but think like retailers, investors, restaurateurs, franchisors and entrepreneurs, which is very important to our company," adds Dr. Jacobs. "They have the experience and track record to handle our growing franchise and manage the real estate selection and development process," adds Taja Jacobs. N3 Real Estate is a fully integrated retail real estate service, development and investment firm based in Southlake, TX. N3 has served national, regional and emerging retail and restaurant expansion needs since 2004. N3 provides the development capital, sites, and construction expertise to fuel restaurant and retail growth nationally. All brokerage services are performed by N3 Commercial Realty, LLC. About Celebritys Soul Food The Celebritys Soul Food Management Company, spearheaded by founders Dr. Fredrick and Taja Jacobs, prides itself on its menu with an emphasis on providing quality service and outstanding and consistent food quality. Celebrity's is a fresh new opportunity with a track record for success, serving high quality southern cuisine, in an atmosphere that makes customers feel like they are the star. Celebritys Soul Food has catered to the likes of celebrities including Oprah Winfrey Network Reality Shows, Steve Harvey, and Fantasia to name a few which has brought unparalleled notoriety and appeal to the brand. The customer experience in a Celebrity's Soul Food is second to none. The unique dining experience includes delivering fresh and delicious food right to the table. SOURCE Celebritys Soul Food ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus Pakistan has tried to downplay India's decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modi's swearing-in on Thursday, saying the Indian Prime Minister's "internal politics" does not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a member of the regional grouping. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Pakistan Prime Minister Khan to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. "His (Prime Minister Modi's) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon)," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. "India's internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation," he said. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in held on May 26 in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Khan after he won the general election last year and wrote a letter as well. Prime Minister Khan, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. "Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Mr Modi as a goodwill gesture," the Pakistani foreign minister said. "Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region... the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. "It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tension," Qureshi said. Prime Minister Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. -PTI The Lost Cajun is Expanding its Tennessee Footprint Set to develop the first location in East Ridge May 28, 2019 // Franchising.com // COVINGTON, LA - The Lost Cajun, a family-friendly restaurant focused on authentic Cajun food and southern hospitality, has announced a new location near Chattanooga in East Ridge. This will be the third restaurant currently under development in the Volunteer State and is slated to open in fall 2019. Founded by Louisiana-native Raymond Griff Griffin, The Lost Cajun is eyeing up to 15 additional locations throughout the state. The new restaurant will be owned and operated by Thomas and Melissa Finch, East Ridge locals. They are eyeing the Jordan Crossing development outside of interstate 75 and Camp Jordan Park for their location. We have taken many fishing trips to Louisiana, and we fell in love with the fishing and the food, Thomas said. When we started to consider opening our own business, we decided we wanted to bring that Cajun feel home with us. We can be on vacation without ever leaving home! Thomas is an East Ridge native and a 15 year veteran of the East Ridge fire department, and Melissa has been working as a travel agent in the area for the last 35 years. Thomas and his friends spent many summers fishing just south of Houma, La., which inspired the couple to bring a Cajun option to their community. It is important to us to be a part of the positive growth in East Ridge, and its exciting to see all of the new opportunities that are coming to the community, Melissa added. Being able to give back to our neighbors through our own business is something new for us, but we are excited to be a part of it. The Lost Cajuns menu offers diners a sampling of traditional Cajun fare, including a variety of gumbos seafood, chicken and sausage, and vegetarian. Red beans and rice, fried seafood, crawfish etouffee and lobster bisque also top the menu, as does another Cajun staple, jambalaya. And what Cajun restaurant would be complete without beignets for dessert? The Lost Cajuns rustic interior is reminiscent of homespun Louisiana supper clubs. It features wooden tables, Bayou inspired wall art and an expertly crafted playlist of Zydeco music. The open kitchen concept will allow diners to witness the kitchen crew creating Cajun fare without barriers. True southern hospitality is evident in the staffs commitment to refill glasses and smile while saying, may I, and thank you. It is exciting to watch our presence in Tennessee grow, and were excited to bring The Lost Cajun to a new community, said Raymond Griffin, Founder and CEO of The Lost Cajun. Were thrilled to continue to find enthusiastic franchisees like Thomas and Melissa who are committed to our culture and mission of authentic Cajun food and hospitality. The statewide expansion comes at a time when The Lost Cajun continues to rapidly expand its national footprint. Today, there are 23 locations open and operating in six states, more than half (13) of which opened last year alone. The brand is on track to develop more than 30 stores over the next 3-5 years. About The Lost Cajun Founded in 2010 and franchising since 2013, The Lost Cajun is a family-friendly restaurant concept with a focus on authentic Cajun food and hospitality. Today, there are 23 restaurants open and operating in six states, with several others in various stages of development. For more information, visit www.thelostcajun.com. Media Contact: Marte Eggleston Franchise Elevator PR (847) 239-8171 meggleston@franchiseelevator.com SOURCE The Lost Cajun ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce will kick off its 2019 Community Conversations series with a panel discussion on Powering Our Economy: The Energy Grid and Renewable Energy at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday at the John F. Fick III Conference Center, 1301 Sam Perry Blvd. Kent Farmer, president and CEO of Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, and a panel of experts from sPower, Dominion Power and the Nuclear Economics Consulting Group will discuss the impact that energy and energy policy has on the regions economy. The annual series brings top public policy experts and lawmakers together to discuss many of the major business issues facing the region, the state, and the nation. There are two more programs in this years series. Moving Our Economy Forward: Transportation Summit will be held July 31, and Innovation and Leadership in Healthcare will be held Sept. 25. Both events will begin at 8:30 a.m. Fees for each program are $30 for members and $45 for future members. A season pass for the entire series is $90. To register, go to the chambers website, fredericksburgchamber.org, or call the chamber office at 540/373-9400. 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. A regional Build Virginia meeting to discuss the development of the skilled trades workforce in the Northern Virginia region will be held at 8:30 a.m. Friday at the Germanna Community College Fredericksburg Center for Advanced Technology, 1325 Central Park Blvd. Attendees will have the chance to hear from and collaborate with Megan Healy, Gov. Ralph Northams chief workforce development advisor and members of the Build Virginia Advisory Board. Build Virginia is an initiative that helps connect workers throughout the Commonwealth with training and employment opportunities in the skilled trades, including ship building, construction and advanced manufacturing. Its website, build.virginia.gov, includes current job postings and information about industry-recognized training programs, registered apprenticeships, and other relevant workforce development resources such as Germanna Community Colleges Engineering Electrical Concentration program. Here are some ways to keep your heating bill down this winter, five late night snacks to help you sleep, and more videos to improve your life. Linda Jackson Vickers, 74, of Colonial Beach passed away on Friday, May 24, 2019. She was born on September 15, 1944 in Shreveport Louisiana, the youngest of 5 children to John Louis and Gladys Dayton Jackson. From her first day in kindergarten when her teacher retired because she could not handle teaching another Jackson sibling, Linda strove to be a perfect student. She attended Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana where she was the first (and rumor has it, the only) person to earn dual Bachelor's degrees in Mathematics and Speech and Theatre. Somehow between her studies, she met the man whom she would eventually marry, even though neither knew it at the time. From there, she moved to Nacogdoches, Texas and began courses at Stephen F. Austin University and met her best and lifelong friend Susan Whidden. The two packed up and moved to Clarkesville, Tennessee when Linda was offered a job teaching speech, theatre, and debate at Austin Peay University. The two spent summers working Crystal Lake and earning spending money hustling pool from unsuspecting souls who didn't think a girl could play. Needless to say, she always had a few spare dollars in her pocket. In 1971, she accepted a 5th grade teaching position in King George County, Virginia. Vick, her soon-to-be husband followed her and they were married in June of 1972 and began building a loving family. She spent the majority of her career as a math teacher at King George High School. She was passionate about math and wanted all of her students to feel the same. She worked tirelessly to make sure her students felt loved and supported. She attended as many of their extracurricular activities as possible, especially loving the drama department and the wrestling team. The last few years of her career she worked to help every student in the county as the Mathematics Coordinator and the Division Director of Testing. After her retirement in 2004, she continued working with math students and teachers across the state. She tutored former students and friends' children, some of who had her on speed dial . She also worked as an adjunct professor for UVA, teaching courses for elementary math teachers. She cherished the friendships and support she received from the Vermillion Violets chapter of the Red Hats Society. They were instrumental in helping her though the loss of her husband in 2004. Linda was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. The enormity of her loss will be felt by all those she loved and those who loved her. She is survived by her children, Heather Vickers and husband Michael Tomeo; Leslye Torkos and Robert Watson, Roy Jones and wife Tracey, and her grandchildren, Kirsten Torkos, Robert P. Watson, Jessica Williams, Brandon Tomeo, Daniel Desimone, and James McCurdy; her great grandchildren, JaiLynn Martin, Dawson Williams, Amy, Wyatt, Landon, Hunter, and Scarlettt Desimone; and her brothers, J.L. Jackson, Jr., Horace Jackson, and David Jackson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence Edward Vickers, Jr.; and her sister, Mary Jo Graham. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 pm on Thursday, May 30, 2019 at Mullins and Thompson Funeral Service, Fredericksburg. A funeral service will be held at 10 am on Friday in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at Historyland Memorial Park in King George. Memorial donations may be made to American Diabetes Foundation or the National Kidney Foundation. Online condolences may be sent at mullinsthompsonfredericksburg.com FOR better or for worse, the Civil War, now more than a century and a half in the rearview mirror, will seemingly be a divisive part of life in our state forever. Some Virginians want to memorialize those who they see as honorable Confederate leaders, while others are infuriated at reminders of a rebellion that sought to preserve slavery. From Fredericksburgs slave auction block to the statues on Richmonds Monument Avenue to the oversized Confederate battle flags along our interstate highways, every icon or memento of that time is fraught with meaning, grounds for disagreement. The great-great-grandson of a Confederate private shot dead at Chancellorsville stands alongside the great-great-granddaughter of a woman who was born into slavery. Among those seeking a middle ground, there are calls for more context, whether thats explaining an auction blocks significance or giving a more nuanced portrayal of a rebel general. Response to those calls seems to be slow in coming as we endlessly ponder how to deal with it all. How can we in the 21st century give proper interpretation to a war that was our great national tragedy, but which also led to freedom for millions of enslaved Americans? Animal Shelter Simulator is on its last stretch before the release in first quarter of 2022. Games Incubator, the game's publisher, has prepared a unique action to aid the homeless animals. As we focus on immigrants and refugees from Central America, I suggest we must consider the contributing impact of climate change. Sample results from searching "Climate Change Central America" include: The dominant media narrative that explains the reasons for current Central American migration to the U.S. centers on the dismal economic and security conditions across Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador. The "failing economies" and "corrupt governments" narratives largely frame our understanding of the near en masse emigration of Central Americans northward. However, those explanations dont tell the whole story. The ongoing food security crisis across the region (caused by drought, crop disease, and water shortages) deserves special examination, not only because it might be a leading causal factor for the crisis, but also because it is undoubtedly one of its catalysts. As such, any U.S. policy prescriptions that do not help to address the catastrophic impacts of environmental changes on Central American agriculture, will fail to achieve their objectives. Yes, todays Central American migrants most of them asylum seekers fearing for their lives are fleeing gangs, deep economic instability (if not abject poverty), and either neglect or outright persecution at the hands of their government. But these things are all complicated and further compounded by the fact that Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras, the largest sources of asylum seekers crossing our border in recent years, are deeply affected by environmental degradation and the impacts of a changing global climate. Michael Hughes Corvallis (May 17) Love 0 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 After hearing many accusations, it was quite a relief to see Special Counsel Robert Muellers report concluding President Trump did not criminally conspire with the Russians to rig his election, or worse, was a Russian asset, as some accused. Muellers report paves the way for one remaining decision is Congress justified in impeaching Trump for obstructing justice? Expect an exhausting debate with extensive media coverage, though its a lawyers game when there was no underlying crime or actual obstruction. Theres one elephant still in the room, however: Did our powerful intelligence agencies begin spying on the Trump campaign to assist the Clinton campaign, and, if so, who ordered it? This would be Watergate on steroids. News has already reported wiretapping (Trumps campaign chairman Paul Manafort), a paid informant (Stefan Halper), and an attractive female agent posing as a researcher (Azra Turk). Attorney General William Barr verified spying did occur and said his concern was whether it was justified. Id be relieved if it was, because the alternative is alarming. Perhaps rogue FBI agents, like Peter Strzok, made it their business, given Strzok promised his mistress, FBI attorney Lisa Page, well stop it (Trump becoming president) while they investigated his campaign. Its much more disturbing to think former President Obama played some role. Hopefully, the Department of Justice's newly appointed special counsel, John Durham, will uncover the truth, and they will fully prosecute anyone responsible. Discrimination by law enforcement based on political affiliation should no more be tolerated than discrimination based on race, age, sex, etc. John Sarna Philomath (May 20) Love 4 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Demonstration is underway in Davit Gareji - dispute over the site goes on - GeorgianJournal Asus ZenFone 6 Edition 30 announced at Computex 2019: Whats the difference? News oi-Abhinaya Prabhu Asus ZenFone 6 Edition 30 has a new design and beefed up specifications as compared to the standard variant. Asus ZenFone 6 is the current-generation flagship smartphone launched by the company recently. It is the successor to the ZenFone 5Z launched last year. Now, at the Computex 2019, the Taiwanese brand has announced a limited edition model of its latest flagship to mark its 30th anniversary. This special edition model is called Asus ZenFone 6 Edition 30. Well, the Asus ZenFone 6 Edition 30 features a new design and upgraded specifications. It was launched alongside the new VivoBook laptops, ZenBook Edition 30 laptop and Prime X299 Edition 30 motherboard. Asus ZenFone 6 Edition 30 design When it comes to design, this new Asus smartphone comes with a new rear design has concentric circle patterns engraved on a 3D-curved glass design. It has has been launched in Matte Black color and will feature an embossed Edition 30 logo at the back. This smartphone stands out from the regular ZenFone 6. Notably, the concentric circles were seen on previous generation Asus smartphones. As per Asus, only 3,000 units of the Asus ZenFone 6 Edition 30 model will be available for purchase across the world. It will come with a warranty period of 30 months. However, the pricing and availability of this smartphone is yet to be announced by the company. What about specifications? Specs wise, this Asus smartphone has 12GB RAM and a whopping 512GB storage space. On the other hand, the high-end variant of the standard ZenFone 6 has 8GB RAM and 256GB storage space. There is a dedicated microSD card slot on the device support up to 2TB of expandable storage space. The other aspects include a 6.4-inch IPS display with FHD+ resolution, 19.5:9 aspect ratio and Corning Gorilla Glass 6 protection. For imaging, the special edition model comes with a flip camera as seen on the vanilla variant. It has dual cameras housed in the flip module comprising a 48MP primary sensor and a 13MP secondary sensor with ultra wide-angle lens and 125-degree field of view. The camera will flip to the front to click selfies. Under its hood, the Asus ZenFone 6 Edition 30 houses the Snapdragon 855 SoC and uses a 5000mAh battery along with support for Quick Charge 4.0. There are dual smart amplifiers, dual speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack as well. Best Mobiles in India Moto Z4 Briefly Listed On Amazon With 48MP Camera And 6.4-inch OLED Display News oi-Sandeep Sarkar The leaked renders suggest that there will be an octa-core Snapdragon 675 processor backing up the smartphone. Motorola has launched a couple of smartphones this year including the Moto G7 series and the Moto One Vision smartphone. Apart from these smartphones, the internet is flooded with the leaks surrounding the Moto Z4 smartphone. The upcoming smartphone by the Lenovo-backed brand has been making splashes over the web for quite some time. Now, the device has been leaked once again confirming the previously suggested specifications. The Moto Z4 will be launched as a successor to the Moto Z3 which was launched last year. The upcoming Motorola smartphone has been spotted on an accidental Amazon listing. The device has been spotted in the Amazon listing by Reddit user called Jetfire007. The listing reveals some of the key specifications of the smartphone. However, it has been now taken down by the company. Moto Z4 expected specifications and features: The leaked renders suggest that there will be an octa-core Snapdragon 675 processor backing up the smartphone. The chipset will be accompanied by Adreno 608 GPU and 4GB RAM for high-resolution graphics and multitasking respectively. The smartphone will offer a native storage space of 128GB and will support an external microSD card of up to 2TB. It will ship with Android Pie firmware out-of-the-box. In terms of display, the Moto Z4 will offer a huge 6.4-inch OLED display with an FHD+ screen resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels. The display has an aspect ratio of 19:9 and boasts a waterdrop style notch on top for the front camera. The smartphone features an under-display fingerprint scanner, making it first Moto smartphone to offer this feature. As for the optics, the Amazon listing of the Moto Z4 confirms the previously leaked 48MP primary camera sensor at the rear. For selfies and video chats, the waterdrop notch on the top of the display will pack a 25MP snapper. Besides, the smartphone is said to offer the same design as its predecessor, the Moto Z3. The camera setup comes with a protruding design and the connector pins for Moto Mods are placed at the bottom. Motorola is yet to announce the official launch date of the Moto Z4 in the global market. We will keep you posted with the latest information on the same, so stay tuned with us. via Best Mobiles in India Redmi K20, Redmi K20 Pro Launch Set For Today: How To Watch Live Stream News oi-Abhinaya Prabhu Redmi K20 and Redmi K20 Pro are all set to be unveiled today. Redmi K20 series has been hitting the rumor mills quite often revealing what we can expect from these phones. The highlight of the high-end variant called Redmi K20 Pro is that this device will be the first one to be launched by the brand with the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 SoC. Today, we will get to know all the details about these new Redmi smartphones as these are slated to be unveiled in China. These phones are touted as "Flagship Killer 2.0" and will be pitted against the OnePlus 7 and 7 Pro. Also, there are claims that the company will take the wraps off a Redmi series laptop dubbed RedmiBook alongside the flagship smartphones. Redmi K20, Redmi K20 Pro live stream Xiaomi's sub-brand Redmi will host the launch event in Beijing, China at 2 PM (nearly 11:30 AM) in India. The launch event will be streamed live via the official Xiaomi website and the company's Weibo handle. As of now, there is no video for the live stream and we will update the same below once it is available. Redmi K20, Redmi K20 Pro expected price Talking about the pricing, the pre-bookings have already debuted in the company's home market China. Interested customers can pre-book the device for 100 yuan (approx. Rs. 1,000). While the final pricing of these smartphones will be announced later today, it has already been confirmed that the Redmi K20 will be launched in India. And, this device is expected to be launched with the moniker Poco F2 in the country. Notably, the non-Pro variant of the device is likely to get the power from a Snapdragon 730 SoC. For the uninitiated, the Xiaomi India Head Manu Kumar Jain hinted that they will launch a smartphone with SD730 SoC in India soon hinting that it could be the Redmi K20. Besides these smartphones, Redmi is also expected to launch its first laptop called RedmiBook at the event. The launch was teased by the company via an image post on its official Weibo handle. Best Mobiles in India Samsung Galaxy M40 is expected to be the re-branded Galaxy A60 with bigger battery News oi-Vivek Galaxy M40 is expected to feature a massive 5000 mAh battery Samsung has launched more than 5 Galaxy A series of smartphones in India, except for the Samsung Galaxy A60. It looks like the company is planning for the launch of the Galaxy A60 in India as the Samsung Galaxy M40 with a much lower price tag compared to the Samsung Galaxy A60. According to the latest leak from Ishan Agrawal and a teaser video posted by Technical Guruji on YouTube, the Galaxy M40 is the first non-flagship Galaxy smartphone to launch in India with a punch hole display cutout, similar to the one found on the Galaxy S10. As Samsung has officially confirmed, the Galaxy M40 will launch in India on the 11th of July. Samsung Galaxy M40 will NOT have an earpiece. The sound will come from the display. The pricing will be aggressive and yes, you will have to say goodbye to the Headphone Jack. Externally, it looks same as A60 and will launch in all these three colours in India, soon. pic.twitter.com/xRsLwbkSXu Ishan Agarwal (@ishanagarwal24) May 27, 2019 Specifications The Samsung Galaxy M40 is expected to come with a compact 6.3-inch display with FHD+ AMOLED screen, protected by 2.5D curved tempered glass. The smartphone will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 675 SoC, the same chipset that powers the Redmi Note 7 Pro with at least 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage. The device will have a triple rear camera setup, probably with a 32 MP primary camera, 8 MP super wide angle lens, and a 5 MP depth sensor. On the front, the phone is expected to house a 16 MP front-facing selfie camera. Just like the Galaxy M20 and the Galaxy M30, the Galaxy M40 will feature a rear-facing fingerprint sensor, with a plastic polycarbonate finish, similar to the Galaxy A60 smartphone. Unlike the Galaxy A60's 3500 mAh battery, the Galaxy M40 is expected to come with a massive 5000 mAh Li-ion battery. Overall, the Galaxy M40 seems like a nice package, which will take on the upcoming smartphones like the Redmi K20 and the Realme X. It is also speculated that the base variant of the Galaxy M40 will be priced less than Rs 20,000, which makes the Galaxy M40 a great smartphone, and most of the Millenials might choose the Galaxy M40 over other budget smartphones. Stay tuned to GizBot to learn more about the Samsung Galaxy M40. Best Mobiles in India The animal had been sick for some time. He died from old age and involved organ failure. With his death, only one female remains in Malaysia. Tam's genome is now preserved in cell culture. Kota Kinabalu (AsiaNews/Agencies) Malaysias last surviving male Sumatran rhino Tam (pictured) didnt make it. He died around noon today at the Borneo Rhinoceros Sanctuary, in the Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Lahad Datu. Datuk Christina Liew, Sabah Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, said the exact cause of death would be known after the autopsy, noting that everything that could have possibly been done, was done, and executed with great love and dedication. The animals last weeks involved the most intense palliative care as humanly possible, she explained, rendered by the Borneo Rhino Alliance (BORA) team under veterinarian Dr Zainal Zahari Zainuddin at the Borneo Rhino Sanctuary. Liew said Tam's death was related to old age and involved multiple organ failures. Reports indicate that his appetite and alertness had declined significantly since the end of last month. Urine analysis tests indicated that he was suffering from organ damage and poor kidney function. It spent most of its time lying down, having received round-the-clock attention and medication from keepers as well as veterinarians. Liew said Tam's living genome was now preserved in cell culture. "We hope that with emerging technologies at cell and molecular levels, he may be able to contribute his genes to ensure the survival of the species," she explained. With Tam's death, Malaysia is now left with one female Sumatran rhinoceros, Iman, who was captured in 2014. She appears to be the last Sumatran rhinoceros found in the wild. Since her rescue, no other Sumatran rhinoceros has been detected in Sabah, a sign that the species may have become extinct. UK spies smuggled out secrets of Russia's strategic supersonic bomber: Reports Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 09:36AM British media claim that the UK's MI6 spy agency has managed to smuggle out secrets about upgrades to Russia's strategic supersonic bombers with the help of the United States' CIA and Israel's Mossad. The report, which emerged in UK media on Sunday, alleged that the stolen military secrets were about the newest version of Russia's Tupolev Tu-160 (NATO code name Blackjack) strategic bombers. The Daily Mail reported on Sunday that the spies had hidden the secret information in a packet of loose leaf tea aboard a Blackjack bomber (the same aircraft that MI6 wanted to learn more about) traveling to Venezuela. According to the report, the packet of loose Russian Caravan tea was unknowingly taken by Russian pilots on board one of the two Blackjacks that were sent to Caracas last December to conduct drills with the Venezuelan Air Force. When the plane landed at Caracas' Simon Bolivar airport, an agent retrieved the discarded box of tea and then took it to a CIA officer waiting at a hotel in Caracas, the report said, adding that the secrets were taken to the US for analysis before being shared with UK and NATO forces. The report does not clarify how the secrets were stored in the tea consumed by the pilots and whether a memory device was used. There has been no official reaction to the report, but Russian media have said the story sounds more like a plot from a spy novel than an actual intelligence operation. The UK and Russia have been engaged in a diplomatic dispute after a former Russian double agent, Sergei Skripal, and his daughter were poisoned with the nerve agent Novichok in Salisbury in March 2018. London blames Moscow for the attack, an allegation Russia strongly rejects. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Remarks by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at the joint press point with the Prime Minister of Estonia, Juri Ratas NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation 27 May. 2019 (As delivered) Prime Minister Ratas, Juri, It's great to see you also again at the NATO Headquarters, and to welcome you here is really to welcome a close and very highly valued Ally of NATO. And Estonia is a highly valued Ally, because you contribute to NATO in so many different ways. You contribute to our collective defence, to our shared security, to NATO missions and operations, and we are extremely grateful for that. You host a multinational NATO battlegroup in Tapa, boosting our defence and deterrence. And I remember I visited the battlegroup and it was extremely impressive to see the commitment and the professionalism of all the troops, and the way Estonia is hosting this battlegroup, so we are thankful for that. Your troops are also in Afghanistan, helping train local forces to fight international terrorism. And then of course Estonia leads by example by spending actually more than 2% on defence, 2% of GDP. This is important because you invest in modern capabilities, but it's also important because you then lead by example and help me to convince other Allies to follow the example of Estonia. Then Estonian leadership is also important in cyber. You play a key role in contributing to the adaptation, the strengthening of NATO's cyber defences. You have volunteered your national cyber capabilities to NATO missions and operations. And you share best practices through the Cyber Centre of Excellence in Tallinn. And you also host very important, valuable exercises, cyber defence exercises, building our resilience to cyber-attacks. Last month in Tallinn, over 1,000 cyber experts took part in Locked Shields - the world's largest live-fire cyber exercise. And this month, your cyber experts joined conventional forces in exercise Spring Storm. This brought together over 9,000 troops from 15 Allies and partners. And provided training for one of four NATO battlegroups in the region. Such exercises are part of our strengthened defence and deterrence. So Prime Minister, dear Juri, we have just discussed the upcoming meeting of NATO's leaders, Heads of State and Government, in London in December this year. We will mark, celebrate the 70th anniversary of our Alliance. And it will also be a good opportunity, platform to chart the way forward as we continue to adapt NATO to a more demanding and difficult security environment. But as long as we stand together, as long as we are united, we are safe and we are secure because NATO is the most successful Alliance in history. Because we have been able to stand united and deter any adversary. So once again, thank you so much. Thank you for coming here, thank you for hosting the battlegroup. And NATO will continue to stay committed to the security of Estonia, with our battlegroups, with our air policing, and with our ironclad commitment to your security. So once again, welcome. Estonian Public Broadcasting: One problem in our region is air defence. Did you discuss the topic and what kind of next steps we could take? NATO Secretary General: We discussed the topic and air defence is important. And therefore this will also be an issue that will be addressed at the upcoming Defence Ministerial meeting, of NATO Ministers, in June. First of all, NATO has increased its presence in the Baltic region with air policing, with the battlegroups. And we are also then looking into how we can make sure that we are delivering the necessary capabilities to always have the necessary readiness and strength of these battlegroups. Then we have to remember that NATO's protection, NATO's defence of all Allies, but including the Baltic countries, is not only dependent on the forces we have already deployed there, but is also dependent on our ability to quickly reinforce if we see a need to reinforce. And therefore, we have tripled the size of the NATO Response Force. We are now working on what we call the NATO Readiness Initiative, which will make us even more able to deploy forces and air defence systems to different parts of the Alliance, including to the Baltic States. So air defence is high on the agenda. Air defence is partly about what we can have stationed there, but also how we can quickly deploy additional capabilities if needed. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taliban delegation, Afghan politicians to hold talks in Moscow Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 05:06PM Afghan politicians will attend a two-day meeting with the Taliban in the Russian capital this week in an effort to end about two decades of the US occupation of Afghanistan. The meeting, set to be held on May 28-29, comes at a time of enhanced diplomatic efforts to revive stalled talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said in a statement on Monday that a 14-member delegation was heading to Moscow, led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the group's top political leader. Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, the Taliban's chief negotiator, will also attend the talks. The delegation is also expected to meet Afghan politicians and elders on Wednesday to discuss the future of the country. From the Afghan political establishment, former President Hamid Karzai is set to make an appearance on the sidelines for informal talks. A spokesman for the former president confirmed that he was travelling to Moscow along with officials from his office. And a spokesman for Afghanistan's high peace council, tasked with helping facilitate peace talks between Kabul government and the Taliban, will attend, said Karim Khalili, who heads the body. The potential talks would mark the second time leaders from the militant group have met with opposition leaders in Russia. In February, a rare summit that saw the former foes praying together and chatting over meals. The Taliban have so far refused to negotiate with the government of President Ashraf Ghani, who has said talks should include Kabul. President Ghani has recently announced his government's own spring offensive, dubbed Operation Khalid, against the militant group last month. A sixth round of talks between the US and Taliban ended in the Qatari capital Doha with no tangible progress. The Taliban have said peace negotiations were stumbling over the fundamental question of when foreign forces would depart the war-ravaged country. The US, however, has refused to agree to a withdrawal as part of an eventual deal until the Taliban put in place security guarantees, a ceasefire, and other commitments. Moscow appears to be gaining influence in the ongoing process. last month, the US announced that Washington had reached a consensus with China and Russia on the key formula for a peace deal it is negotiating in Afghanistan. The Taliban's five-year rule over at least three quarters of Afghanistan came to an end following the US invasion of the country in 2001. However, 18 years on, Washington is seeking truce with the militants, who still control large swathes of land in the country. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Houthi: Saudi-led siege of Yemen's al-Durayhimi 'obvious crime' Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 05:05PM Yemen's Houthi Ansarullah movement has lambasted as an "obvious crime" the tight siege that has been placed on the Yemeni city of al-Durayhimi by the Saudi-led military coalition and its ally, the militia loyal to former president, Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi. Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, the chairman of the Supreme Revolutionary Committee of Yemen and the movement's spokesman, made the comment on Monday, Yemen's Arabic-language al-Masirah television network reported. He also said that the United Nation was making yet another crime by witnessing the brutal siege but doing nothing. However, al-Houthi described as a "positive act" the importing of humanitarian aid, particularly food, by the UN agencies to the besieged city, adding that the food "was not enough" for the desperate and trapped people of al-Durayhimi, which is located in the volatile province of Hudaydah. He also stressed that what was needed to be done "is to lift" the siege and put an end to the years-long deadly aggression on Yemeni people. Leading a coalition of its allies, Saudi Arabia invaded Yemen in March 2015 in an attempt to reinstall Hadi, who had resigned amid popular discontent and fled to Riyadh, and to crush the Houthis, who have been significantly helping the Yemeni army against a Saudi-led aggression for the past four years. The imposed war initially consisted of an aerial campaign, but was later coupled with a naval blockade and the deployment of ground mercenaries to Yemen. Furthermore, armed militia forces loyal to Hadi, in line with invaders, launch frequent attacks against Yemeni people in regions held by Houthis. The aggression is estimated to have left 56,000 Yemenis dead. The Saudi-led war has also taken a heavy toll on the country's infrastructure, destroying hospitals, schools, and factories. The UN has said that a record 22.2 million Yemenis are in dire need of food, including 8.4 million threatened by severe hunger. According to the world body, Yemen is suffering from the most severe famine in more than 100 years. A number of Western countries, the US, France, and Britain in particular, are also accused of being complicit in the ongoing aggression as they supply the Riyadh regime with advanced weapons and military equipment as well as logistical and intelligence assistance. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Austrian chancellor ousted in no-confidence vote Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 04:10PM The Austrian parliament has removed Chancellor Sebastian Kurz and his caretaker government from office in a no-confidence vote over a corruption scandal. The motion was passed on Monday in the aftermath of the release of a controversial video of the vice chancellor and far-right freedom party (FPO) leader Heinz-Christian Strache, who was seen to be allegedly offering public contracts to a Russian agent in return for political support. Social Democrats (SPO), the main proponents of the 32-year-old leader's ouster, blamed him for forming a coalition with Strache's party and accused the chancellor of an "uncurbed and shameless power grab." The two parties have a majority of 103 seats combined in the Austria's 183-seat lower house. "Kurz gambled away his chances and, Mr. Chancellor, you bear full responsibility," the SPO deputy parliamentary faction head Joerg Leichtfried said in a speech before submitting the motion. The vote, backed by more than half of MPs, came despite a surprise victory of Kruz's conservative People's Party (OVP) in Sunday's European elections, which is projected to gain 34.9 percent of the vote and two extra European parliament seats. Strache, denying all allegations, resigned from his political posts after the video release. Austrian prosecutors said they were investigating Strache's video "in multiple directions", but declined to provide further details. The Central European country will now be led by a transitional body until general elections are held in September. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia voices readiness to play role in Venezuela talks with opposition in Oslo Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 10:31AM Russia has expressed readiness to play a role in a new round of peace talks between the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and the US-backed opposition slated for next week in Norway's capital, Oslo. The Norwegian government announced Sunday that delegates from the Maduro government and the opposition will resume negotiations in Oslo in an effort to find ways out of a months-long political crisis plaguing the Latin American country. Norway will be acting as a mediator. An earlier round of such talks was held in Oslo this month, but the opposition said there were no face-to-face meetings. Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the continuation of the talks, saying it was ready to assist in the negotiating process. "Moscow welcomes the announcement about the continuation of contacts between the Venezuelan government and opposition being held in Oslo through Norway's good services," said the statement. The political crisis began in Venezuela in January when opposition figure Juan Guaido who heads Venezuela's now defunct National Assembly abruptly declared himself "interim president" and called for early election. Caracas called it a coup attempt masterminded by the US. Russia further warned against external powers trying to foist ultimatums on the Venezuelan leadership. "We call on all states involved in the Venezuela situation to support the launch of the political process in the form of talks between the country's major forces, refraining from issuing ultimatums to Venezuela's leadership," it added. The warning came in an apparent message to the US, which quickly recognized Guaido and has been actively attempting to replace Maduro with Guaido. The opposition returned to the negotiating table with Maduro weeks after the Caracas government and the army petered out a coup orchestrated by Guaido and a small group of renegade soldiers in Caracas. In a video posted on Twitter, Maduro welcomed the second round as a chance "to look for peace, always to look for peace." Guaido also welcomed the initiative, but said the opposition would not be dragged into any process that delayed efforts "to find a solution to the chaos our country is suffering." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Houthi: Drone strikes response to Saudi spurning of peace Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 07:29AM A senior Houthi official says Yemen has resumed its retaliatory drone attacks deep inside Saudi Arabia in response to the kingdom's spurning of "peace initiatives" sponsored by the United Nations. Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, the chairman of the Supreme Revolutionary Committee of Yemen, said on Sunday the Houthi movement had agreed to halt strikes last year "in good faith" and was ready to take more steps. "But unfortunately the aggressor countries misinterpreted these efforts (as weakness) and regarded them with contempt and indifference," he told Reuters news agency. Houthi further dismissed Saudi allegations that the drone strikes had been carried out on Iran's orders. "We are independent in our decisions and ... we are not subordinated to anyone," he said. He pointed out that Yemeni forces had unilaterally withdrawn from three Red Sea ports, and criticized Saudi Arabia and its mercenaries for their failure to do so. The movement, which has been significantly helping the Yemeni army against a Saudi war for the past four years, signed a UN-brokered truce deal with the Saudi side in Stockholm on December 13. According to the agreement, Houthi fighters and Saudi mercenaries must withdraw from three ports in Yemen, particularly Hudaydah, through which more than 70 percent of Yemen's imports are made. The Saudi-led military aggression, which started in March 2015, has already claimed tens of thousands of Yemeni lives. Over the past week, Yemeni fighters have launched three drone attacks on the airport in Saudi Arabia's southern Najran region. A US-made Patriot missile battery at the airport was also targeted in the attacks. A drone strike was carried out deep inside Saudi territory on two oil pumping stations on May 14. The Houthi movement has warned that the attack ushered in a new phase of large-scale retaliatory attacks against vital targets in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Senior Houthi official Mohammad al-Bukhaiti described Yemeni drone strikes in line with the right of self-defense, saying they will stop once Saudi and UAE regimes change course and put an end to their military aggression. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Afghan Politicians, Taliban Negotiators Expected To Meet In Moscow By RFE/RL May 27, 2019 Senior Afghan politicians and Taliban peace negotiators are expected to attend a two-day meeting in Moscow this week. The potential May 28-29 meeting comes amid efforts to launch talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban after a planned summit in Qatar was canceled last month. Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said in a May 27 statement that a 14-strong Taliban delegation, led by deputy leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, will attend a ceremony on May 28 marking the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and Afghanistan. The delegation would also meet Afghan politicians and elders the following day to discuss the future of the country, Mujahid said, without giving details. It was unclear if Afghan government officials would attend the Moscow meeting. The Taliban has said it will not negotiate with the Western-backed Kabul government, which it deems illegitimate. Former President Hamid Karzai is set to attend the meeting, his spokesman has said. Taliban officials met a delegation of powerful Afghan power brokers in Moscow in February, but those talks did not include members of President Ashraf Ghani's government. Those talks marked the most significant contact between senior Afghan political figures and the militant group since the U.S.-led invasion in 2001. The meeting in Moscow comes amid a push by the United States for a peace settlement with the Taliban. Zalmay Khalilzad, the U.S. envoy seeking a peace deal with the Taliban, has held several rounds of talks with the militants in Qatar in recent months. The sides have made progress but have been unable to finalize a peace agreement. In recent years, Russia has emerged as a power broker in Afghanistan, where the Soviet Union fought a disastrous war from 1979-89. In November, Russia also hosted talks between the Taliban and Afghan political figures. Khalilzad welcomed Russia's efforts in the peace process, although some U.S. officials have claimed that Moscow is promoting itself as a power broker to challenge the U.S.-backed peace process with the Taliban in Qatar. With reporting by Reuters and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/afghan-politicians -taliban-negotiators-expected- to-meet-in-moscow/29966003.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 Core Pro-EU Parties Lose Ground As European Elections Shift Landscape By RFE/RL May 27, 2019 Elections to the European Parliament reflect an altered political landscape in the European Union, with the main center-right and center-left parties losing their dominance and environmentalists, the far right, and pro-business groups gaining strength. Results coming in on May 27 indicated that the long-established "grand coalition" of the European People's Party (EPP) and the Socialists (S&D) will no longer have a majority. But while far-right forces and nationalists recorded strong gains, powerful showings by Greens and liberals meant that parties committed to strengthening the EU retained about two-thirds of the seats -- 505 out of 751, according to a projection by the European Parliament. With about 100 seats for the liberals and about 70 for the Greens, these groups will have a louder voice and and the traditionally dominant center-right and center-left parties a weaker one. But the results may undermine the hopes of far-right politicians such as France's Marine Le Pen and Italy's Matteo Salvini of disrupting attempts to bring the EU closer together. Green parties secured record gains across Europe's biggest countries -- including 20 percent of the vote in Germany, nearly double the Greens' support there during the last European elections in 2014. 'Green Wave' Early results from across Europe suggested the Greens would secure a total of 69 seats, up from 52 in the 2014 European elections. That puts Green party politicians in a strong position for possible coalition negotiations with the two pro-EU blocs that were unable to win an outright majority -- the center-right European People's Party (EPP) group that was on track to win 179 seats, and the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D) that was projected to take 152 seats. France's leading Europe Ecology -- The Greens (EELV) candidate, Yannick Jadot, hailed the results as a "green wave in which we are the main players." The leaders of the EPP and the S&D said early on May 27 that they've ruled out working with anti-EU parties. Both appealed for cooperation among pro-European parties. Manfred Weber, leader of the center-right EPP group, said late on May 26 that "from now on, those who want to have a strong European Union have to join forces." Weber says his group will not cooperate "with any party that doesn't believe in the future of the European Union." Frans Timmermans, the Socialist and Democrats leader who is Weber's chief rival for the top job at the EU's executive commission, says he wants to work together with progressive parties "to try and build a program that addresses the aspirations, the dreams, and also sometimes the fears of our fellow Europeans." On a nationwide basis in France, Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) party was set to finish in first place, dealing a symbolic setback to pro-EU President Emmanuel Macron after he'd campaigned on behalf of centrist politicians. Exit polls showed Le Pen's party on track to win about 24.0 percent of the vote, with Macron's centrist alliance trailing with about 22.5 percent. Le Pen called for Macron to dissolve the French parliament and call new elections as a result of the European vote, but that proposal was immediately rejected by the French government. Highest Turnout In Years Despite the RN party's triumphant declarations, final results could be a mixed picture for Le Pen. Political analysts said her RN party may end up losing ground since the 2014 European elections when it finished first in France with 24.9 percent. Allies of Macron called the result "respectable," and expressed satisfaction that the margin of defeat for France's centrists appeared to be small. Macron's aides said the apparent victory for Le Pen's party would not have any bearing on Macron's policies. Projections indicated that the party of German Chancellor Angela Merkel and its center-left coalition partner also suffered losses. Turnout across the EU, excluding Britain, was estimated at 51 percent, the highest in 20 years. May 26 was the last of four days of voting for the bloc's next parliament. With reporting by Reuters, AP, and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/afghan-politicians -taliban-negotiators-expected- to-meet-in-moscow/29966003.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 Austrian President Dismisses Kurz Cabinet Amid Political Scandal Sputnik News 23:10 27.05.2019(updated 00:12 28.05.2019) VIENNA (Sputnik) - Austrian President Alexander van der Bellen announced on Monday that he will release the government led by Chancellor Sebastian Kurz from duties on Tuesday. Earlier in the day, the lower house of the Austrian parliament passed a motion of no confidence against Kurz and his government amid the scandal involving Kurz's coalition partner, the Freedom Party of Austria (FPO), whose former leader Heinz-Christian Strache was taped discussing potentially exchanging government contracts against help with election. "I entrust Vice Chancellor Hartwig Loger to head the Federal Chancellery and the federal government," van der Bellen said at a press conference. Loger will officially head the Austrian government on Tuesday and represent Austria at the EU Summit in Brussels in the evening. Earlier in May, some of the major German media reported, citing a video recording made during a July 2017 meeting in Ibiza, Spain, that an alleged niece of an oligarch from Latvia offered Strache to give FPO money and help them with press support ahead of the parliamentary election, while Strache reportedly offered government construction contracts in return. As a result of the scandal, Strache resigned as the vice-chancellor and the leader of FPO Strache said that the woman involved in the scandal was a Russian-speaking Latvian citizen. He also described the situation as a trap and "political assassination." Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO Intercepts Alleged Russian Aircraft Over Its 'Eastern Flank' Report Sputnik News 22:08 27.05.2019(updated 22:11 27.05.2019) The incident comes after the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) said last week that NORAD fighters had intercepted two Russian bombers as they carried out sorties in international airspace off the coast of Alaska at the time. The Spanish military's General Staff has published on its Twitter page photographs showing NATO warplanes' interception of what looked like Russian Aerospace Forces aircraft. The General Staff said that Spanish Air Force's EF-18M planes from NATO's Baltic air-policing mission were "scrambled to intercept the aircraft which entered the airspace of the alliance's eastern flank". There was no immediate word about the identification of the planes that have been intercepted. The incident comes on the heels of four US Air Force F-22 stealth fighter jets intercepting two Russian bombers and two Su-35s as off the coast of Alaska last week. The interception was reported via Twitter by the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) which underscored that the Russian aircraft remained in international airspace. The Russian Defence Ministry, for its part, stated that four Russian Aerospace Forces' Tu-95MS strategic missile carriers were followed by US F-22s as they made scheduled sorties over the neutral waters of the Chukotka, Bering and Okhotsk seas, as well as along the western coast of Alaska and the northern coast of the Aleutian Islands. Russian strategic and long-range aircraft regularly carry out flights over the Arctic region, the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean and the Black Sea. The Russian Defence Ministry has repeatedly underlined that all flights of Russian warplanes are carried out in full accordance with international law, and the rules for the use of airspace over neutral waters. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel Agrees to US Mediation in Sea Border Dispute With Lebanon - Reports Sputnik News 18:04 27.05.2019 CAIRO (Sputnik) - Israel has expressed readiness for the United States to provide mediation in the country's dispute with Lebanon over a maritime border, the KAN broadcaster reported on Monday. Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz held a meeting earlier on Monday with Satterfield and agreed to US mediation efforts, according to the media. This comes after Lebanese President Michel Aoun asked Washington earlier this month to help the country settle the border dispute with Israel. During a meeting with acting US Assistant Secretary of State David Satterfield, Aoun stressed that Lebanon was committed to its own sovereignty on land, in the air and at sea. The Israel-Lebanon sea border dispute hinders development of the Leviathan gas field, which is part of the Eastern Mediterranean, one of the world's hottest offshore drilling zones with a string of major natural gas discoveries in recent years. The Lebanese leadership has stated that the disputed blocks 8 and 9 in the Leviathan field are located in the exclusive economic zone of Lebanon. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pentagon Announces Tender to Buy Russian-Made Ammunition Report Sputnik News 17:33 27.05.2019 This comes as the US Army Contracting Command is reportedly conducting a market survey to find suppliers of special ammunition and weapon systems for their delivery to unspecified locations outside the continental US. A US Army Contracting Command notice has been posted on the US government's main contracting website to ask for information from contractors capable of producing and delivering non-NATO special ammunition, the Defence Blog reports. The notice indicates that the US Army "looks to buy small-calibre special ammunition" for use with Russian-made pistols, assault rifles and machine guns. The list specifically includes cartridges for Tokarev and Makarov pistols, Kalashnikov assault rifles of both calibres (5.45 mm and 7.62 mm) as well as DShK and YakB machine guns and SVD Dragunov rifles. The Defence Blog claims that the US Army Contracting Command is monitoring the market to find "technically and financially capable sources for supplying and delivering multiple variants of Special Ammunition & Weapon Systems (SAWS) and non-NATO commercial ammunition from around the world for delivery to OCONUS [Outside (the) contiguous United States] locations". This comes after Defence One reported earlier this month that the State Department plans to expand its so-called European Recapitalisation Incentive Programme; it stipulates Washington offering Eastern European countries cash to purchase American weaponry in exchange for their giving up Russian- and Chinese-made arms. The website cited an unnamed State Department official as saying that Washington now wants the year-old programme to go global and help US partners "get away or stay away from Russian or Chinese [military] equipment". The State Department reportedly vowed to allocate about $190 million for the implementation of the project in six countries Albania, Bosnia, Croatia, Greece, North Macedonia and Slovakia. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Warns Potential US Military Surge in Mideast to Create New Risks Sputnik News 13:43 27.05.2019(updated 13:45 27.05.2019) MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, commenting on US President Donald Trump's intention to additionally send 1,500 troops to the Middle East, said Monday any increase in military potential would result in new risks. "As for President Trump's decision to send 1,500 troops in addition to those deployed in the Middle East and North Africa region, well, you know, always when the military potential grows, the risks increase. I very much hope that the sensible voices that are heard from Washington, including the respected former military leaders, politicians, diplomats about the recklessness of the idea of war against Iran, will be heard," Lavrov told reporters. US President Donald Trump earlier said the United States would additionally deploy about 1,500 troops to the Middle East to protect the already deployed US military in the region. Iran, for its part, denounced the move as "a threat to international peace." As part of the new deployment, reconnaissance aircraft, fighter jets and engineers, with six hundred personnel belonging to a Patriot missile defence battalion in the region, will be included. The Pentagon has justified the move to deploy additional troops due to a series of minor attacks in May allegedly conducted by Iranian forces, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, and "proxy" forces, while Tehran has strongly any involvement. Responding to the latest US moves to build up forces in the region, Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Sunday that the country will defend itself against any "war efforts". The US-Iranian relations became tense in 2018 as US President Donald Trump pulled the US out of the Obama-era Iran nuclear deal and subsequently introduced fresh sanctions targeting Tehran. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Two Indian Army Commanders Escaped Pakistan's Kashmir Air Strike - Report Sputnik News 12:37 27.05.2019 Indian Northern Army Commander Lt Gen. Ranbir Singh and 16 Corps Commander Lt Gen. Paramjit Singh had left for another post, 700 metres from the military compound where the Pakistan Air Force dropped precision-guided glide bombs in an air strike on 27 February in retaliation to the IAF's strike a day earlier. New Delhi (Sputnik): Two top Indian military commanders escaped the Pakistan Air Force's (PAF) bombing near an Indian defence installation in the state of Jammu and Kashmir on 27 February, reveals a report in The Print media outlet some three months later. The Pakistan Air Force dropped the H-4 Stand-Off Weapon (SOW), a precision-guided glide bomb, while retaliating to the 26 February 'non-military', as claimed by Indian Air force, airstrike in Balakot to destroy alleged terror infrastructure of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist group. The bomb fell inside the compound of the Indian Army's brigade headquarters in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri sector. Following the retaliatory strike, Pakistan military spokesperson Major Gen. Asif Ghafoor claimed that the PAF set out to execute the attack in a way to "made sure that there was no collateral damage". "Because we are a responsible state and want peace, we decided that we will not use any military target," Ghafoor emphasised on the day of the first ever aerial clashes between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Nevertheless, Indian defence sources claim they heard in Pakistani radio communications that the PAF intended to hit Indian military assets. Tensions between India and Pakistan heightened in mid-February, when a total of 40 Indian soldiers were killed by a JeM suicide bomber in Jammu and Kashmir state's Pulwama district. The Indian government vowed to avenge the terror attack, accusing Islamabad of harbouring JeM terrorists. However, the Imran Khan-led Pakistan government has categorically denied such a claim on several occasions. Meanwhile, since the February clashes, the first direct communication between Pakistan Prime Minister Khan and his counterpart Narendra Modi was established this Sunday (26 May) three months after the Balakot strike, as PM Khan congratulated Modi on his re-election as Indian prime minister. Modi stressed that creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism are essential ingredients for fostering cooperation for peace, progress and prosperity in the region. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Military Fears Being Outplayed By China in Africa as Power Struggle Heats Up Sputnik News 09:48 27.05.2019(updated 17:28 27.05.2019) Beijing maintains a commercial and military presence in Djibouti, located south of the Bab-el-Mandeb strait that connects the Red Sea with the Indian Ocean; the tiny country is also home to the sole enduring US military outpost on the continent. China's increasing military presence in Africa is seen as disturbing in Washington, with Pentagon officials airing concerns that Asia's biggest economy is gaining the upper hand in winning regional allies. "They (China) have upped their game, in plain language, and ultimately they are offering things that our partners want, that our partners need," an official with US Africa Command (AFRICOM) told CNN. "In places, we have concerns we are being out-competed." The comments referred to China's expansion in Djibouti, a tiny country located at the southern entrance to the Red Sea, close to one of the world's busiest trading routes. Djibouti hosts the United States' only permanent military base in Africa, called Camp Lemonnier, a hub for the US spying network and counter-terrorism operations in Africa. Although Djibouti, a haven of political stability in a turbulent region, has plenty of foreign bases, it is Beijing's growing presence in the country that has Pentagon hawks on edge. In 2017, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (China's armed forces) opened its first overseas support base in Djibouti, nearly 10 kilometres away from Lemonnier. The Pentagon warned in a 2019 annual report to Congress that China is expected to build on its success in Djibouti. More Chinese bases will come "to establish overseas logistics facilities that would further extend and sustain regional and global air operations", the report said. But for the time being, it is China's base in Djibouti that has raised particular concerns among US commanders, given that the well-armed outpost is located close to a critical seaport, which the 4,000-strong Lemonnier contingent heavily relies on. READ MORE: Taiwan Holds Live-Fire Drills Off Coast Amid Tensions With China Last year, AFRICOM commander Gen. Thomas Waldhauser warned Congress that two out of five terminals in the port were already under Chinese control, and now the fear is that China could cut off US access to the port someday. "It's no secret that roughly 98% of the logistics support for Djibouti, as well as Somalia and East Africa, come through that port," Gen. Waldhauser noted. "That port is one of five entities in the overall Djiboutian port. And so, our access there is necessary and required." He also told the House of Representatives Armed Services Committee that "if the Chinese took over that port, then the consequences could be significant." A lack of strategic trust between Washington and Beijing is what has been defining their relations in the past year. The Trump administration has accused China of stealing US commercial software and technology and laid the groundwork for blocking American companies from doing business with Chinese telecom firms. Huawei Technologies, a tech giant which Washington claims is being financed by China's military and spying on behalf of the government, has become the most recent target of the campaign to choke off Chinese firms. Moreover, ahead of last year's mid-term election, Donald Trump claimed at a UN meeting that China was trying to "meddle" in the vote in retaliation for his hard-line stance on trade. Last June, Trump slapped stiff import tariffs on $50 billion worth of Chinese goods, ostensibly in a bid to fix the disturbing trade imbalance. Beijing responded in kind, and the trade dispute has since spiralled down into a trade war, with the two world powers exchanging several rounds of massive trade duties. Trade talks are underway but have showed no signals of a compromise so far. On 9 May, Trump said China "broke the deal" and increased tariffs on a whopping $200 billion of Chinese imports, with Beijing going ahead with retaliatory tariffs on $60 billion worth of US goods. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemeni Houthis Release 66 Prisoners Under Exchange Agreements - Reports Sputnik News 01:27 27.05.2019 BEIRUT (Sputnik) - The Houthi movement announced the release of 66 prisoners under the exchange agreements, Head of the National Committee for Prisoners Affairs Abdulqader Mortada said, as cited by local media. "Sixty-six prisoners were released within framework of the exchange process", Mortada said, cited by Almasirah TV channel. Yemen, a small nation in the south of the Arabian peninsula, has been engulfed in an armed conflict between the government forces, led by President Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi, and the rebel Houthi movement for several years now. Over the past weeks, the fighting has intensified. On Tuesday, the Houthis said that they had attacked an airport in the Saudi city of Najran, adding that an arms depot in the airport's premises had caught fire as a result. A Saudi-led coalition has been carrying out airstrikes against the Houthis at Hadi's request since March 2015. The conflict has resulted in a massive humanitarian crisis in the war-torn country. According to the United Nations, the war in the crisis-hit country claimed over 7,000 lives, but many organizations put the number even higher. In addition, the organization estimates that almost 20 million Yemenis lack access to healthcare, and nearly 18 million do not have clean water or access to sanitation. The fighting has contributed to the world's worst cholera outbreak, with some 10,000 suspected cases every week. According to the World Health Organization, some 65 percent of the population needs medical attention. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Mediation, Not Dialogue': Guaido Denies Talking to Maduro Reps in Oslo Sputnik News 02:03 27.05.2019 According to Guaido, Norway does "mediation" between the two sides. Earlier this week, representatives of the two conflicting sides met in Oslo to attempt for a diplomatic solution to the Venezuelan crisis. Venezuela's self-imposed "interim president" Juan Guaido on Sunday denied that his delegation in Norway engages in dialogue with representatives of President Maduro. "We must describe what's happening in Norway precisely," Guaido said to his supporters at a rally in the city of Barquisimeto, according to El Nacional. "This is an invitation to a meditation on Norway's part. That said, it is not a negotiation or a dialogue." According to Guaido, the Oslo meetings must result in the resignation of President Maduro. "If this doesn't happen, we will stay on the streets and move towards the restoration of democracy," he claimed. This is an almost word-by-word reiteration of a statement he made on 16 May. At the time, he also said that Norway was mediating and that there were no negotiations going on. Opposition member Stalin Gonzalez explained earlier that members of the two delegations have never met face to face but talked to the Norwegians in turn. He underscored that the Norwegian process came up with no agreements. Guaido said that Norway would define the methodology for next week's meeting, without specifying if the two sides would meet directly, according to a Reuters report. On Saturday, Norway announced the two delegations will continue their talks in Oslo next week. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro thanked Norway for their efforts "to advance the dialogue for peace and stability." The US State Department reacted to the announcement, saying Washington believes Oslo talks must inevitably end in Maduro's resignation. Russia, China, Turkey and a number of other nations recognize Nicolas Maduro as the only legitimate leader of Venezuela, while the US and its allies backed the self-imposed "president" Juan Guaido. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Amid 'unprecedented combination' of epidemics, UN and partners begin cholera vaccination campaign in DR Congo 27 May 2019 - Amid what global Vaccine Alliance Gavi is calling an "unprecedented combination" of epidemics, the UN and partners are supporting the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo's major new immunization campaign against cholera which began on Monday, targeting more than 800,000. The campaign began in North Kivu in the restive east of the country, where armed groups hold sway over large areas, and the DRC's worst-ever Ebola epidemic is still raging, having claimed well over 1,000 lives so far. The cholera campaign will be implemented by the DRC's Ministry of Health with support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and partners, and funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. A total of 835,183 people in Binza, Goma, Kayina, Karisimbi, Kibirizi, Kirotshe and Rutshuru areas will be vaccinated by a deadline of next Saturday. A first dose will be given, and if all goes well, the second dose will be rolled out at a later stage to provide full protection. More than 10,000 cases of cholera have been reported in the country since January 2019, leading to more than 240 deaths. In addition, over 80,000 suspected cases of measles have led to over 1,400 deaths so far this year while a case of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 was reported in Kasai province, earlier this month. "The DRC is confronted with an unprecedented combination of deadly epidemics," said Dr. Seth Berkley, CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. "While the Ebola outbreak continues to cause untold misery in the East, measles and cholera epidemics are claiming the lives of thousands of people throughout the country. That's why we are stepping up our response," he added, "through ongoing measles vaccinations in health zones affected by measles outbreaks, as well as through our continued support for Ebola vaccinations in both the DRC and neighbouring countries. We cannot allow this needless suffering to continue." Campaign is 'massive contribution' - WHO "Cholera is a preventable disease. Vaccinating people at risk in the most exposed health zones in North Kivu against cholera is a massive contribution and will protect hundreds of thousands of people against the disease and raise population immunity levels in these areas," said Dr. Deo Nshimirimana, acting WHO Representative in the DRC. The cholera vaccine doses were taken from the global cholera vaccine stockpile, which is fully funded by Gavi. Gavi is also supporting operational costs for the campaign. Since the stockpile was launched in 2013, millions of doses have helped tackle outbreaks across the globe. In the fifteen years between 1997 and 2012, just 1.5 million doses of oral cholera vaccine were used worldwide. In 2018 alone, the stockpile provided 17 million doses to 22 different countries. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Set to Host Taliban, Afghan Politicians By Ayaz Gul May 27, 2019 Prominent opposition politicians from Afghanistan and representatives of the Taliban insurgency will meet in Russia on Wednesday for discussions on promoting a negotiated settlement to the Afghan war that continues to cause dozens of casualties every day. The intra-Afghan conference comes as months of direct peace negotiations between the United States and the Taliban appear to have slowed down, if not deadlocked, over insurgents' refusal to cease hostilities until all U.S.-led international forces withdraw from Afghanistan. Washington has linked its troop withdrawal move to counterterrorism assurances by the Taliban, a comprehensive cease-fire and the insurgent group's participation in a peace dialogue with the Afghan government and other groups to end years of hostilities. The Russian Foreign Ministry said that prior to Wednesday's peace-related talks, Taliban and Afghan delegates are scheduled to attend a meeting on Tuesday, marking the 100th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Moscow and Kabul. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will deliver the welcome address, it said. That special gathering will be attended, among others, by former Afghan President Hamid Karzai, and Mohammad Karim Khalili, the head of Afghanistan's official High Peace Council (HPC), which is tasked with promoting reconciliation with armed opposition groups. Afghan diplomats in Moscow will also be in attendance. A Taliban spokesman announced Monday the head of its Qatar-based "political office," Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, will lead the 14-member team of senior insurgent officials at this week's meetings in Moscow. "The delegation of Islamic Emirate (Taliban) will also hold closed-door meetings with senior officials of the Russian Federation," said Zabihullah Mujahid, without giving further details. It was not immediately known whether Khalili and other members of the HPC will be part of Wednesday's intra-Afghan discussions because the Taliban refuse to engage in any peace talks with anyone associated to the U.S.-backed Kabul government. The intra-Afghan talks would mark the second time Taliban officials have met with Afghan opposition politicians in Russia. The first such interaction took place in February, but no government representatives were present because of objections by the insurgents Russia has stepped up its diplomatic involvement in pushing a peaceful settlement to the Afghan war, using its growing influence and contacts with the Taliban. Russia, the U.S. and China announced at a meeting last month that the three countries had reached a consensus on a framework for a peace deal the U.S. is negotiating with the Taliban. They did not elaborate. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Austrian Chancellor Kurz Ousted by Parliament By Ken Bredemeier May 27, 2019 The Austrian parliament ousted Chancellor Sebastian Kurz in a no-confidence vote Monday, pushing him out of office in the aftermath of a corruption scandal that had ended his coalition government. The ouster of Kurz, at 32 the world's youngest head of government, and his Austrian People's Party was led by the opposition Social Democrats, but backed by the far-right Freedom Party, Kurz's one-time coalition partner. Austria's President Alexander Van der Bellen will now pick a chancellor to head a caretaker government ahead of elections expected in September. Kurz and his party had a strong showing in Sunday's European Union elections, but it was not enough to save him from becoming the first Austrian chancellor in post-World War II history to lose a confidence vote. On Facebook, he accused his opponents of a "game of revenge." But he added, "At the end of the day the people will decide, namely in September." Kurz's coalition came apart after the emergence of a video damaging to Freedom Party leader and former vice-chancellor Heinz-Christian Strache. In the video, Strache appears to be offering the purported niece of a Russian oligarch public contracts if she would buy a large stake in the Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung and make it support the Freedom Party. The ensuing scandal has been dubbed Ibiza-gate after the Spanish island where the video was recorded in 2017, weeks before the election that brought Kurz and his Freedom Party partners to power. It remains unclear who made the video or why it took so long to emerge. Strache is heard on the video saying he wanted to "build a media landscape like [Viktor] Orban," referring to Hungary's nationalist, anti-immigration leader. Strache stepped down as vice-chancellor within hours after the video emerged. Van der Bellen, at Kurz's request, then fired Freedom Party Interior Minister Herbert Kickl, a move that prompted other Freedom Party ministers to resign in solidarity. Ahead of the no-confidence vote, Kurz told parliament, "I am very proud and satisfied with the work we have done as a government in the past year and a half." On Sunday, Kurz's center-right Austrian People's Party finished first in Austria in the European Parliament elections with 34.9%. The Social Democrats won 23.6% and the Freedom Party took 18.1%. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address French Police Arrest 4 Suspects in Last Week's Lyon Explosion By VOA News May 27, 2019 French authorities say four suspects have been arrested in connection with a bombing that injured 13 people last week in the city of Lyon. Investigators say the suspects include a 24-year-old Algerian computer science student. French news agency Agence France-Presse reports the man's parents were also arrested and taken into custody for questioning, along with another Algerian student who is a relative. The student had been the target of an extensive police manhunt since Friday night when a homemade explosive device filled with screws and ball bearings was left outside the store of a popular bakery chain in the historic center of Lyon. Security camera footage showed a partially masked suspect wheeling a bicycle to the scene, before leaving the bag in front of the store. Police circulated photos of the footage on Twitter, leading to "several dozen" leads. Eight women, four men and a 10-year-old girl, were wounded in the blast, but their injuries were not believed to be life-threatening, according to French authorities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China-US personnel exchange should not be politicized, restricted: spokesman Global Times Source:Xinhua Published: 2019/5/27 21:00:17 A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman on Monday said people-to-people and cultural exchanges between China and the United States should not be politicized and unreasonably restricted. "China always believes that personnel exchange forms the basis for exchanges and cooperation between China and the US in various fields," Lu Kang said at a press briefing when asked to comment on a recent statement of President of Yale University Peter Salovey. In the statement, Salovey affirmed Yale's "steadfast commitment" to its international students and scholars, stressing they were "welcome and respected on our campus." He added that openness was "a key to the extraordinary success of America's great research universities" and "must remain a hallmark of Yale." Lu said not only Yale, some other US universities including Stanford and UC Berkeley had released statements to express support to international students and scholars including those from China. President of Harvard University Lawrence Bacow said in March that maintaining and deepening exchanges and cooperation between the two countries' education and cultural institutions is crucial to promoting US-China relations in the long run, and that Harvard will continue to promote exchanges and cooperation with Chinese educational and scientific research institutions, according to Lu. The spokesman also mentioned US President Donald Trump's remarks last December in Argentina, who said Chinese students were welcome to study in the United States. "However, some US departments and institutions have made unreasonable and unscrupulous restrictions on normal personnel exchange between the two countries since the beginning of this year, which have caused widespread concern and seriously disturbed bilateral cooperation," Lu said. "We hope that relevant departments of the US government can return to rationality, respect public opinions and do more to promote mutual understanding and friendship between Chinese and US people," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea calls America's Bolton 'inordinately ignorant' over missile test remarks Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 07:11AM North Korea has criticized US National Security Adviser John Bolton, calling him a "war fanatic" and a "human defect" that should be banished after the hawkish US official said Pyongyang's latest missile tests violated UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. A spokesman for the North's Foreign Ministry said Bolton's comments about Pyongyang's tests of two long-range and several short-range missiles were "inordinately ignorant" and "beyond stupid." The American security official said on May 24 that "there is no doubt" North Korea's missile tests earlier this month violated UNSC resolutions. The unnamed North Korean spokesman said the launches did not target or threaten any neighboring country. "Banning launches using ballistic technology is equal to telling us to give up our right to self defense," he added. He further called Bolton a "war maniac" who keeps "whispering war" into President Donald Trump's ears. Bolton, the spokesman added, is more working to "destroy" rather than maintain "peace and security." "Such human defect must go away as soon as possible," the North Korean official added. In his comments about North Korea's tests, Bolton went further than his boss, President Trump, who first said he was "unhappy" with the tests and later downplayed their significance. In a tweet, Trump dismissed Bolton's concerns over North Korea testing of "some small weapons." On Monday, Trump who is on a visit to Japan said there was "great respect" between the United States and North Korea and predicted "lots of good things." "I may be right, I may be wrong. But I feel that we've come a long way. There's been no rocket testing, there's been no nuclear testing," Trump said ahead of his meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. "We'll see what happens. There's a good respect built maybe a great respect built between certainly the United States and North Korea. We will see what happens," Trump added. Trump has already held two summits with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula since June 2017. In the first meeting in Singapore, the two sides reached a general agreement on the issue, but their second summit in Vietnam collapsed, with Trump and Kim giving contradictory accounts of the talks. The North has warned that it is considering ending talks on denuclearization and resuming its nuclear and missile tests over what it describes as Washington's "gangster-like stand." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address DPRK Says Giving Up Missile Launches Means Giving Up Self-Defence - Report Sputnik News 06:07 27.05.2019(updated 06:32 27.05.2019) North Korea held several launches in early May, including tests of short-range missiles. US National Security Advisor John Bolton has said that Pyongyang had violated the UNSC resolutions. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Monday, cited by Reuters, that Bolton was wrong in [his] "conclusions", stressing that "giving up missile tests" would mean "giving up the right to self-defence". A statement issued by the KCNA quoted a North Korean foreign ministry representative as saying that US National Security Adviser Bolton is a "war fanatic", according to a Reuters report. Moreover, Bolton is working to destroy peace and security, according to the KCNA statement, cited by Reuters. On Sunday, US President Donald Trump downplayed the recent missile launches by Pyongyang, saying that "North Korea fired off some small weapons, which disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me". Trump said he had confidence that the country's leader would keep his promise to denuclearize the Korean peninsula. Since 2018, North Korea has been engaged in denuclearization talks with the United States. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump expressed their commitment to the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula at their first bilateral meeting in Singapore last June. The two leaders met for a second time in Vietnam in February. However, their talks concluded abruptly without any declaration or agreement, when they failed to reach consensus on what each side was ready to compromise to secure a deal. A spokesperson for the North Korean Foreign Ministry said on Friday that Pyongyang blames Washington for the failure of the Hanoi summit and refuses to resume negotiations until the United States changes its position on North Korea. Pyongyang took meaningful steps toward easing tensions, but faced impracticable demands from Washington, he stressed. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Says There is 'Great Respect' Between US and DPRK Sputnik News 05:22 27.05.2019(updated 06:50 27.05.2019) The statement came during US president Donald Trump's official visit to Japan, prior to bilateral talks between him and Japan's prime minister Shinzo Abe. Earlier in the day, Trump met with the new Japanese Emperor Naruhito. US president Donald Trump has reportedly said that there is "great respect" in relations between the US and North Korea, according to AFP. Donald Trump noted that he expected "lots of good things" despite recent missile launches by Pyongyang. "I personally think that lots of good things will come with North Korea, I feel that. I may be right, I may be wrong, but I feel that," Trump said as cited by AFP. "Lots of good things will come with North Korea We've come a long way," Trump said as cited by AFP. "There's a good respect built, maybe a great respect built between certainly the United States and North Korea." The statement came prior to the start of bilateral talks with Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The US president highlighted that there was "tremendous" imbalance in trade with Japan but said that it could be "worked out" as the pair negotiate a deal, according to AFP. "We are working on the imbalance of trade there's been a tremendous imbalance and we are working on that. I'm sure that will work out over a period of time," Trump said as cited by AFP. Trump also commented on the situation in relations between the US and the Islamic Republic of Iran. "I do believe that Iran would like to talk, and if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also," Trump said as cited by AFP. "We'll see what happens, but I know for a fact that the prime minister (Abe) is very close with the leadership of Iran nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me." Earlier Donald Trump met with the new Japanese Emperor Naruhito, becoming the first foreign leader to do so. The bilateral talks between Trump and Abe were earlier promised to lead to "interesting announcements." "The President and Prime Minister Abe will likely hold a joint press conference where they'll have some very interesting announcements covering, really, the range of the relationship", a senior US administrative official told reporters earlier. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Not Bothered by North Korea Missile Tests By Steve Herman May 27, 2019 U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed differing views Monday on whether recent North Korean missile tests violated a U.N. Security Council resolution, but remained united on the ultimate goal of achieving a denuclearized Korean Peninsula. Speaking during a joint news conference after talks in Tokyo, Trump said he viewed the tests as a bid for attention by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and that he was not personally bothered by them. Abe said the tests did violate the Security Council resolution. He also repeatedly stressed that in negotiations with North Korea his government is most interested in resolving the issue of North Korean abductions of Japanese citizens. Trump's comments focused largely on economic issues, expressing his expectations of reaching trade deals with Japan and China that would reduce U.S. trade deficits, and highlighting what he sees as the "tremendous economic potential" that awaits North Korea if it makes an agreement that includes giving up its nuclear weapons. Abe welcomed what he called the steady progress of trade talks with the United States, particularly regarding energy, digital and infrastructure sectors. He said he looks forward to further cooperation and celebrated Trump's visit as an exhibit to the world of the "unshakeable bond" the two countries possess. No quick breakthrough on trade was expected although both leaders have expressed a desire for a bilateral trade pact after Trump pulled the United States out of the comprehensive 12-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership, which Tokyo had spearheaded with Washington under Trump's predecessor, Barack Obama. At the start of their talks Monday, Trump said he would be fine with Abe serving as a mediator between the United States and Iran. "The prime minister has already spoken to me about that," Trump said in response to a question from VOA. "And I do believe that Iran would like to talk and if they'd like to talk we'd like to talk also. We'll see what happens. But I know for a fact that the prime minister is very close with the leadership of Iran." Trump later at the news conference beside Abe said, "I think we'll make a deal." "It has a chance to be a great country, with the same leadership. We're not looking for regime change. I just want to make that clear. We're looking for no nuclear weapons," Trump added. U.S. - Iran tensions escalated in recent weeks as Trump ended waivers that had allowed some of Iran's biggest oil buyers to continue making purchases despite new U.S. sanctions, and as he increased the U.S. military presence in the Gulf in response to what he said were Iranian threats. Earlier Monday, Trump became the first foreign leader to meet with Emperor Naruhito, who ascended to the throne May 1. Trump and first lady Melania Trump took part in an elaborate welcoming ceremony at the Imperial Palace. The U.S. delegation was greeted at the palace by several dozen elementary schoolchildren waving Japanese and American flags. A military band played the U.S. "Star Spangled Banner" and Japan's "Kimigayo" anthems. The emperor is hosting an imperial banquet at the palace Monday night. "Our alliance is a rich inheritance we must pass on to our children," Trump said in remarks he read at the start of the formal dinner in the palace's largest banquet hall, known as the Houmei-den, which was attended by 180 guests. Before Trump departs Japan on Tuesday, he is to visit the naval base at Yokosuka to tour a Japanese helicopter carrier and address American service personnel in conjunction with the U.S. Memorial Day holiday (observed on Monday). NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hundreds of German Soldiers 'Unfit for Service' After Foreign Missions Report Sputnik News 14:46 27.05.2019 The state of the German military has repeatedly been a subject of controversy amid regular reports of equipment and supply problems, as well as complaints of underfunding. 800 German soldiers are currently unfit for service due to their participation in military operations abroad, Bild reports. The magazine specifically referred to the German army's operations in Afghanistan, Mali and other countries which have a negative impact on the health of the Bundeswehr servicemen. Bild quoted unnamed sources in the German Defence Ministry as saying that these servicemen are now undergoing a medical rehabilitation programme and that after completing the programme, they will be able to resume service. In addition, Bild reported that last year, a total of 279 German soldiers returned from overseas operations with mental health problems. This comes after last year's survey, published by the parliamentary commissioner for the armed forces, Hans-Peter Bartels, claimed that shortfalls in the Bundeswehr's personnel and equipment are "dramatically" hindering its readiness for combat. "The army's readiness to deploy has not improved in recent years, but instead has got even worse. At the end of the year six out of six submarines were not in use. At times, not one of the 14 Airbus A-400M could fly", the reports argued. In October 2018, German media reported that none of the newly-developed assault rifles expected to replace the G36 rifle met the Germany army's expectations. Earlier, problems were reported with the military's existing equipment, including its Leopard 2 main battle tanks, Tornado combat jets, submarines, and other equipment, much of which has been described as being in a poor and "outdated" state. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Does Congress Party Have a Future in Face of Modi Onslaught? By Anjana Pasricha May 27, 2019 It was India's "Grand Old Party." The Congress Party ruled the country for 55 out of 71 years since independence. But following the party's crushing electoral debacle for a second time, there are questions about its future as the Nehru-Gandhi political dynasty at its helm is unable to counter the most powerful leader India has produced in decades: Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Contrary to expectations, India's mammoth general election turned out to be virtually a no-contest between Modi and Congress Party president Rahul Gandhi as it became a presidential-style battle. "It is not what went wrong with the Congress, it is more of a story of what went right for Prime Minister Modi. He stood as a tall leader, as an achiever, as somebody who understood people's aspirations," says political commentator Rasheed Kidwai, who has authored a biography of Rahul Gandhi's mother, Sonia Gandhi. On the other hand, "Rahul Gandhi is temperamentally not a power wielder. He is a trustee of power." The sixth member of the Nehru Gandhi family to lead the party, Rahul is often seen as a "reluctant politician", despite his spirited campaign to revive the party and challenge Modi after its rout in 2014. Gandhi's rallies drew crowds, but his efforts to project Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party as a threat to India's secular traditions or to highlight issues of economic distress failed to resonate. His attempts to nail him for corruption in a deal to buy Rafale French fighter jets fell flat. His promise of a minimum wage for India's poorest families was met with skepticism, even among the poor. On the other hand, Modi, successfully wooed voters with his message of strident nationalism and subtle appeal to the majority Hindu community. Along with it, there was another theme: he projected himself as the humble son of a tea seller, a self made man who fought all odds to reach the top post in contrast to what he called the "entitled" Gandhi who had inherited the mantle of leadership of the Congress Party. It drew cheers from the country's emerging middle and lower-middle classes, exhausted with dynastic politics. The Congress Party's tally of 52 seats in parliament was only a notch higher than the 44 seats it won in 2014 in the 545-member parliament. The party's candidates returned empty-handed in half the Indian states and in several others the party only mustered a single digit tally.Modi's BJP won 303 seats. The scale of its losses not just crushed hopes the Congress Party would either lead a credible challenge to Modi or return as invigorated opposition - it once again raised questions over the leadership of the Gandhi family. Rahul Gandhi has offered to resign, but expectedly the party that has no second rung of leadership has turned it down. "The party will fulfill its role as a strong opposition. We need Rahul Gandhi to lead us in these challenging times," Congress Party spokesman Randeep Surjewala said after a meeting of the party's senior leaders on the weekend. Rahul Gandhi also lost the Amethi constituency the party had held for 50 years in Uttar Pradesh state. In another humiliating blow for the Gandhi family, his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who was appointed in a senior post to revive the party, failed to make an impact. Rahul's mother, Sonia Gandhi, won her party's only seat in the state. Rahul Gandhi's victory in another constituency in South India means he will continue to be a lawmaker. Dynastic politics is not limited to the Congress Party: lawmakers from political families are a routine feature of Indian politics. But political commentators say in an era showing a preference for strong, populist leaders, Modi was the clear victor. "There is a new sense of nationalism sweeping across many conventional democracies. There is a yearning for a strong leader that captures the public imagination," according to political analyst Ajoy Bose. "I don't really see the conventional Congress Party or the conventional leadership mounting a challenge to Modi. He has completely taken the country by storm." Gandhi tried to give a positive message after the party's rout. "We have a different vision of India [from Modi]", said the head of the party that has long projected itself as a defender of India's minorities, such as Muslims who worry about religious polarization and a rise in hate crimes since Modi came to power. "There is no need to be afraid. We will continue to work hard and we will eventually win." But it may be difficult to reinvent what analysts call a "fading party." They say Modi's BJP now occupies the dominant political space that the Congress party did for decades. "Congress is going to get reduced to, you know, like the Liberals did in Britain," says Rasheed Kidwai. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia supports Iran's proposal for non-aggression pact IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Moscow, May 27, IRNA Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday that Russia supports Iran's proposal to leaders of the Persian Gulf states to sign a non-aggression pact. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif during his visit to Iraq on May 25-26 gave a proposal to leaders of the Persian Gulf states to sign the pact as a prelude to de-escalation in the Persian Gulf region. Interfax news agency quoted Sergei Lavrov as saying, "Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif's proposal on concluding a non-aggression pact among the countries of the region and would be a first step toward an easing of tensions, and we view such an agreement as the right one". Lavrov said that the initiative was discussed with the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council. Zarif had said on Sunday that Iran's proposal of signing a non-aggression agreement with the countries of the Persian Gulf is still on the table. Iran is aiming the best ties with all the Persian Gulf states and welcomes all the suggestions for de-escalation, said Zarif following a meeting with his Iraqi counterpart Mohammed Alhakim in Baghdad. 9191**1416 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Zarif describes his meetings in Iraq as substantive, productive ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency Mon / 27 May 2019 / 11:00 Tehran (ISNA) Iran's Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif described his meetings in Iraq as substantive and productive. Zarif, who has traveled to Iraq, wrote on his official Twitter account, "In Iraq, where I've held substantive and productive meetings with the President, PM, Speaker, FM & leadership of two parliamentary coalitions. Proposed regional non-aggression pact: Neighbors First". During the visit to Baghdad, Zarif held separate talks with a number of high-ranking Iraqi officials, discussing the bilateral and regional issues. He stressed that Iran wanted to build balanced relations with its Persian Gulf neighbours and that it had proposed signing a non-aggression pact with them. Mentioning that Tehran will defend itself against any military or economic aggression, Zarif called on European states to do more to preserve a nuclear deal his country signed with them. End Item NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Actions, not words, will show Trump's real intent: FM Zarif Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 10:02PM Iran's foreign minister says US President Donald Trump has to prove in action whether he seeks to fall into line with the league of anti-Iran domestic and regional officials. Tweeting on Monday, Mohammad Javad Zarif said, "B-Team's Economic Terrorism is hurting the Iranian people and causing tension in the region. Actionsnot wordswill show whether or not that's Donald Trump's intent." In late April, Zarif identified the B-Team as US National Security Advisor John Bolton, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The US has been pursuing a policy of "maximum pressure" against Iran under US Trump, which has Bolton as its top security aide. The policy has seen Washington reinstating draconian economic sanctions targeting the Islamic Republic, and dispatching an aircraft carrier strike group, a bomber taskforce, and an amphibious assault ship to the region. Washington has been enlisting the assistance of its regional allies in implementing the policy. Recently, it said that it would target every country potentially buying Iran's oil as of May 2 with "secondary sanctions." Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates immediately reported that they would be making up for potential shortages of the Iranian crude. According to Zarif, the markedly hostile foursome have themselves admitted to targeting the Iranian people with economic terrorism. Despite leveling serious threats and accusations against Iran, Trump has from time to time rowed back from avowing an intention to either militarily attack Iran or seeking "regime change" in the Islamic Republic. Bolton, however, has invariably championed warfare against Iran and directed ill-intentioned criticism against the country's Islamic establishment. Earlier in the month, The National Interest, an American magazine, suggested that the US president was considering replacing Bolton over his plans to push the United States towards a military conflict with Iran and others. Bolton "is headed for the exits, having flown too close to the sun on his regime change efforts for Iran, Venezuela, and North Korea," it reported, citing sources familiar with the matter. A former senior Trump administration official also told the magazine about "hearing that Trump wants him out." Zarif separately reiterated absence of whatever intention on the part of Tehran to pursue nuclear arms, reminding how Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the country's highest authority, has categorically prohibited the weapons. The Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) voted overwhelmingly in December 2015 in favor of a resolution that closed the so-called possible military dimensions (PMD) case in Iran's nuclear program. The IAEA, which held the vote months after the conclusion of the landmark nuclear deal, has also verified Iran's commitment to the agreement on 14 separate occasions. "Ayatollah Khamenei long ago said we're not seeking nuclear weaponsby issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them," the senior diplomat added. The remarks came amid Washington's repeated assertions that it would prevent Iran from attaining such a weapon. "We're looking for no nuclear weapons," Trump likewise told a press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo earlier on Monday. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Surge in US military presence in Mideast creates new risks: Russia FM Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 05:21PM Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has warned that any increase in the US military presence in the Middle East would result in new risks. "As for [US] President [Donald] Trump's decision to send 1,500 troops in addition to those deployed in the Middle East and North Africa region, well, you know, always when the military potential grows, the risks increases," Lavrov told reporters in Moscow on Monday after a meeting with his Cuban counterpart Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla. "I very much hope that the sensible voices that are heard from Washington, including the respected former military leaders, politicians, diplomats about the recklessness of the idea of war against Iran, will be heard," he added. The United States remarkably stoked tensions with Iran in May 2018 when the US president pulled his country out of a nuclear accord between Iran and six world powers, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and re-imposed harsh sanctions against the Islamic Republic in defiance of global criticisms. The tensions saw a sharp rise on the first anniversary of Washington's exit from the deal, reached between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries -- the United States, the UK, France, Russia, and China plus Germany -- in 2015, as the US moved to ratchet up the pressure on Iran by tightening its oil sanctions and building up its military presence in the region. Washington has sent military reinforcements, including the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group, a squadron of B-52 bombers, and a battery of patriot missiles, to the Middle East. On Friday, the Pentagon announced that 1,500 additional troops would be sent to the Middle East, in what officials described as a "force protection" measure against alleged Iranian threats. Trump also claimed the deployment is "mostly protective." Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Saturday dismissed the US claims against Iran as "fabricated allegations to justify beefed up US military presence in the region, " saying Washington's decision to deploy additional troops to the Middle East is "extremely dangerous" and threatens international peace and security. Tehran has repeatedly announced that it would not be the initiator of any war, but reserves the right to self-defense and will give a crushing response to any act of aggression. A senior commander of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) said on Sunday that the US presence in the Middle East is at its "weakest in history", amid spiraling tensions between the two countries. "The Americans have been present in the region since 1833 and they are currently at the weakest state throughout the history of their presence in West Asia, and have the minimum number of warships in the Persian Gulf," Rear Admiral Ali Fadavi, the second-in-command of the IRGC, said. Russia welcomes Iran non-aggression initiative with Persian Gulf states Elsewhere in his remarks, the top Russian diplomat hailed a proposal by the Iranian foreign minister to conclude a non-aggression pact with the Persian Gulf countries as the first step to reduce regional tensions. "Perhaps, agreeing not to attack each other is the first step to defuse the tensions. We would consider such an agreement to be beneficial," Lavrov said. Zarif said in Baghdad on Sunday that Iran has offered to sign non-aggression agreements with all countries in the Persian Gulf region and those offers are still on the table. At a press conference alongside his Iraqi counterpart, Mohamed Ali Alhakim, Zarif also said that Iran sought the best of relations with the Persian Gulf littoral countries and would welcome any proposals for dialog and de-escalation toward that end. Lavrov also said that his Iranian counterpart's suggestion was in line with a "well-known and old" Russian initiative to create a "security concept" for the Persian Gulf, noting, however, that "no common position" had been formulated among the Arabs about this initiative so far. "I believe that any way we should move on toward creating such a concept, such a security system, and we should start with easy steps, such as being transparent about military matters, inviting each other to take part in drills and elaborating other measures aimed at boosting trust," Lavrov said. He added that Russia would like to see the Arab League, the European Union, the United Nations and the five permanent members of the UN Security Council as the guarantors of this security system. In an exclusive interview with the CNN broadcast on Tuesday, Zarif warned that the United States is "playing a very, very dangerous game" by beefing up its military presence in the region. The Iranian foreign minister criticized the US for sending military reinforcements to the Middle East and said, "Having all these military assets in a small waterway is in and of itself prone to accident, particularly when you have people who are interested in accidents. So extreme prudence is required and the United States is playing a very, very dangerous game." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US sanctions policy poses threat to entire region: Iran deputy FM Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 02:18PM A senior Iranian diplomat has warned that the US policy of imposing sanctions against other countries poses a threat to the security of the entire Middle East region. "The US sanctions policy has, in fact, endangered the security of the entire region, and regional countries must remain vigilant in the face of such a threat," Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araqchi said in a meeting with Kuwaiti Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled al-Hamad al-Sabah in Kuwait City on Monday. US President Donald Trump in May 2018 pulled his country out of a nuclear accord between Iran and six world powers, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and re-imposed harsh sanctions against the Islamic Republic in defiance of global criticisms. Under the JCPOA, reached between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries -- the United States, the UK, France, Russia, and China plus Germany -- in 2015, Iran undertook to put limits on its nuclear program in exchange for the removal of nuclear-related sanctions. Elsewhere in his remarks, Araqchi said Iran is pursuing a "responsible" approach to regional developments, adding, "Dialog and consultation with regional countries are among the principles of our country's foreign policy." The senior Iranian diplomat then expressed the Islamic Republic's readiness to establish regional mechanisms with a view to engaging in dialog and constructive interaction with countries in the region. Stressing that Iran's principled policy is based on establishing peace and stability in the important Persian Gulf region, Araqchi said security is an "integrated and indispensable" concept that includes both political and economic aspects at the same time. The Kuwaiti foreign minister, for his part, said regional countries should maintain their consultations and meetings to solve any crises. 'Iran ready for constructive talks with Persian Gulf states' Earlier on Monday, Araqchi ruled out the possibility of negotiations with the United States, though expressing Tehran's readiness to hold "balanced and constructive" talks with any Persian Gulf state. In a post on his Twitter account, the Iranian deputy foreign minister reiterated that there will be no direct or indirect talks between Tehran and Washington. However, he emphasized that the Islamic Republic is "ready to negotiate with each and every country in the Persian Gulf for a balanced and constructive relations based on mutual respect and interests." Araqchi is currently on a three-nation tour of the region. On the first leg of his trip, he visited Oman and is currently in Kuwait with Qatar being the next destination on his itinerary. In a meeting with Omani State Minister for Foreign Affairs Yusuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah in Muscat on Sunday, the senior Iranian diplomat rejected all reports about any form of direct or indirect talks with the United States and said, "The Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to establish balanced and constructive relations with all countries in the Persian Gulf region based on mutual respect and interests." He added that the Islamic Republic does not seek to stoke tensions in the region, saying that ending the US sanctions against Iran and allowing all regional countries to benefit from the interests of economic cooperation would guarantee regional peace and stability. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Sunday that Iran had offered to sign non-aggression agreements with all countries in the Persian Gulf region and those offers are still on the table. At a press conference alongside his Iraqi counterpart, Mohamed Ali Alhakim, in Baghdad, Zarif also said that Iran sought the best of relations with the Persian Gulf littoral countries and would welcome any proposals for dialog and de-escalation toward that end. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump says US not after regime change in Iran as war threats lose momentum Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 08:25AM US President Donald Trump says his administration is not looking for regime change in Iran and would rather sit down for talks, signaling a change of tone after a period of saber-rattling that saw him and other US officials threaten the Islamic Republic with war in hope of getting concessions. "We're not looking for regime change, we're looking for no nuclear weapons," Trump said at a press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo Monday, adding that he thinks "we'll make a deal" with Tehran. "I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal, and I think that's very smart of them, and I think that's a possibility to happen," he said. Ever since quitting the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in May 2018, Trump has used sanctions and political pressure to force Iran into the negotiating table for a new agreement, but to no avail. The American president, who is on a visit to address trade differences with Tokyo, tried to use Shinzo's good relations with Iran to find a way out of his self-made crisis. He suggested earlier in the day that the Japanese premier could act as a mediator. "I know that the prime minister and Japan have a very good relationship with Iran so we'll see what happens," Trump said. "The prime minister's already spoken to me about that and I do believe that Iran would like to talk. And if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also," the US president added. "We'll see what happens ... nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me." Trump's call for talks came only days after he threatened "the official end of Iran" in a tweet, as tensions rose following the US deployment of an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Persian Gulf to purportedly confront an alleged "Iranian threat." However, the war talk has lost much of its steam thanks to a measured response from Iranian officials, who have indicated that they are not looking for war but would not hesitate to defend themselves against one either. Iran has also ruled out the possibility of talks with the US under the current circumstances, when Washington is openly seeking to cripple Iran's economy and pressure its people by targeting the its oil exports. 'Negotiations with US poisonous' Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei said in a recent address that negotiation with the US was "poison." "Negotiations are like a poison as long as the US remains the same way it is and with the current US government, they are additionally poisonous," he said. "The Iranian nation's definite option will be resistance in the face of the US, and in this confrontation, the US would be forced into a retreat," Ayatollah Khamenei said. Trump's latest remarks further highlight Washington's desperation to show the world that it is not looking for war with Iran, after facing international backlash over its "maximum pressure" campaign against Tehran. Save for Israel and a few Arab regimes, the campaign even failed to resonate with America's main allies who unanimously warned Trump against taking any military action as it would only lead to more chaos. Experts have warned that any war with Iran would drive up oil prices and cause major markets around the world to crash. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump: U.S. Wants Iran Without Nuclear Weapons, Not Seeking Regime Change By RFE/RL May 27, 2019 U.S. President Donald Trump, who is on a state visit to Japan, has said that the United States is not seeking regime change in Iran, amid heightened tensions between the two countries. "We're not looking for regime change, we're looking for no nuclear weapons," Trump said after talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo, adding that he thinks "we'll make a deal" with Tehran. Relations between Tehran and Washington have plummeted since the United States a year ago pulled out of a 2015 nuclear accord between world powers and Iran that curbed the country's nuclear program in exchange for relief from crippling economic sanctions. Since then, Washington has reimposed sanctions, stepped up its rhetoric, and beefed up its military presence in the Middle East, prompting growing concerns of a possible military conflict with Iran. Before his talks with Abe, Trump said: "Nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me." "I do believe that Iran would like to talk and if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also," the U.S. president told reporters. Trump also noted that Abe has a "very good relationship with Iran," amid Japanese media reports saying that the Japanese leader is considering a visit to the Middle Eastern country next month. In announcing the U.S. pullout from the nuclear deal in May 2018, Trump said the terms were not tough enough to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons and did not address Iran's missile program or Tehran's support for militants in the region. Iran has denied it supports insurgent activity and said its nuclear program was strictly for civilian energy purposes. Iranian leaders also reject any talks with the United States, which they accuse of pushing for regime change in the country. Apart from Iran, Trump and Abe also discussed trade and Japan's concerns over North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. Trump said that he was not "personally bothered" by recent short-range missile tests, which Pyongyang conducted this month. Abe disagreed, saying that the missile tests violated UN Security Council resolutions and were "of great regret." A February summit in Hanoi between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un broke down without producing results on the process of denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula. "Lots of good things will come with North Korea," Trump told Abe at the start of their talks. "We've come a long way. There's a good respect built, maybe a great respect, built between certainly the United States and North Korea." As Trump was meeting with Abe, North Korea's Foreign Ministry called White House national-security adviser John Bolton a "war monger" and "defective human product" in response to his description of a recent North Korean short-range missile test as a violation of UN Security Council resolutions. Earlier on May 27, Trump became the first foreign leader to meet with Japan's new emperor who ascended to the throne on May 1. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako greeted the U.S. president and his wife, first lady Melania Trump, at the Tokyo Imperial Palace. With reporting by AP, Reuters, AFP, and Kyodo News Agency Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/trump-japan-iran- north-korea/29964803.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 Tehran Says Ready for Creating Mechanism for Dialogue With Gulf States Sputnik News 23:49 27.05.2019(updated 00:45 28.05.2019) DOHA (Sputnik) Iran is ready to create a mechanism for dialogue with the Persian Gulf states to reduce existing tensions, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araqchi said on Monday. Araqchi is currently on an official visit to Kuwait, during which he conveyed a message from Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif to Kuwaiti top diplomat Sheikh Sabah Al Khalid Al Sabah. "The dialogue with regional states is a basis for the Iranian foreign policy and on this basis Iran is ready to create regional mechanisms for start of the dialogue and constructive cooperation with these countries," Araqchi said, as quoted by the Fars news agency. He pointed out that the US policy posed a threat to the regional security. On Sunday, Araqchi started a trip to the Persian Gulf countries, including Oman, Kuwait and Qatar, in an attempt to reduce tensions in the region. The US-Iranian tensions flared up last year when the United States unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran and started reinstating sanctions on the Islamic republic. On May 8, 2019, Iran announced its decision to partially discontinue its obligations under the nuclear agreement. The United States has in recent weeks stepped up its forces in the Middle East in what US National Security Adviser John Bolton has called a clear and unmistakable message to Iran. The new US deployments in the region include an aircraft carrier strike group, Patriot missiles, B-52 bombers and F-15 fighters, according to the Pentagon. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said that Iran does not intend to wage war with the United States, but will continue to resist Washington. Acting US Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan has made similar remarks, saying the United States was not seeking war against Iran. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran Won't Negotiate With 'Great Satan' IRGC Commander on US Talks Sputnik News 18:20 27.05.2019 Donald Trump said on Sunday that the United States will "make a deal" with Tehran, but Iranian officials appear unwilling to sit down at the negotiating table, given that the US is amassing its forces in the vicinity of the embattled Islamic Republic. A senior official in Iran's elite military force ruled out peace talks with the United States, referring to Washington as the "Great Satan". "Negotiating with the devil, the Quran says, bears no fruit," said Admiral Ali Fadavi, a deputy coordinator of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, according to Fars News. The Pentagon has deployed an aircraft carrier and a fleet of B-52 bombers to the Middle East, as well as Patriot missiles, and F-15 fighters, amid a recent spike in tensions. Undeterred by this show of power, Ali Fadavi described the US military presence in the region is at its "weakest in history". Washington said the rationale behind its Mideast military build-up is intelligence data indicating that Iran and its proxies were plotting an attack on its regional interests. "We have information that you don't want to know about," said US President Donald Trump. "They were very threatening and we have to have great security for this country and many other places." Majid Takht Ravanchi, Iran's Ambassador to the UN, in response shrugged the claims off as "fake intelligence". On Friday, US acting Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan said the military was sending an additional 1,500 troops along with fighter jets, drones, and anti-aircraft missile systems to the Middle East. US-Iran ties have been falling apart ever since Donald Trump took office. Tensions began to escalate last year after he withdrew the US from the hard-fought 2015 nuclear deal, citing its failure to stop Iran's nuclear activities. The Trump administration went on to slap crippling economic sanctions on the oil-rich country, targeting its banking and shipping sectors and aiming to choke off its crucial oil exports. Iran and the remaining signatories of the deal (Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany) have repeatedly critiqued the sanctions and reaffirmed their commitment to the deal. Earlier in May, Tehran partially discontinued its commitments under the agreement and gave world powers a 60-day ultimatum to reach a new nuclear deal before it resumes higher-level uranium enrichment. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump on Iran: 'Nobody Wants to See Terrible Things Happen' Sputnik News 08:30 27.05.2019(updated 08:31 27.05.2019) Earlier, the US announced the deployment of 1,500 additional troops to the Middle East to counter "credible threats" from Iran in a move denounced by Tehran on Saturday as "a threat to international peace". Speaking during the course of an official visit to Japan, US President Donald Trump on Monday did not exclude the possibility of negotiations with Iran, The Times of Israel reported. "I do believe that Iran would like to talk, and if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also," Trump said. "We'll see what happens, but I know for a fact that the Prime Minister [Abe] is very close with the leadership of Iran nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me." The US president made the statement while meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who is reportedly considering visiting Tehran. A report by Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper, citing government sources, said the US president supported Abe's idea and suggested the visit happen soon. Responding to the latest US moves to build up forces in the region, Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Sunday that the country will defend itself against any "war efforts". "We will defend against any war efforts against Iran, whether it be an economic war or a military one, and we will face these efforts with strength," Zarif said during a joint conference with Iraqi counterpart Mohammed al-Hakim. Earlier this week, the United States said it was deploying 1,500 additional troops to the Middle East to counter "credible threats" from Iran, with Tehran denouncing the move as "a threat to international peace." The new deployment will include reconnaissance aircraft, fighter jets and engineers, with six hundred personnel belonging to a Patriot missile defence battalion in the region that has had its stay extended. The Pentagon has justified the beefed up force as a response to "threatening activity" and a number of minor attacks in May allegedly by Iranian forces, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, and "proxy" forces. The incidents referred to include a rocket launch targeting Baghdad's Green Zone, four tankers damaged by explosive devices in Fujairah near the entrance to the Gulf, and a Saudi oil installation hit by a Houthi drone. Tehran has denied any involvement in the attacks. Pentagon officials have repeatedly stressed that the US does not seek war with Iran. "We do not see these additional capabilities as encouraging hostilities. We see them as defensive in nature," said acting Assistant Secretary of Defence Katie Wheelbarger. "Our policy remains an economic and diplomatic effort to bring Iran back to the negotiating table to encourage a comprehensive deal that addresses the range of their destabilising behaviour in the region," Wheelbarger added. The escalation of the US military presence in the region comes in the wake of a decision in early May to dispatch an aircraft carrier strike force and B-52 bombers as a preemptive show of force against an allegedly imminent Iranian plan to attack US assets. Last year Donald Trump pulled the US out of the Obama-era Iran nuclear deal and subsequently reimposed sanctions on the country. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump: Japan-Mediated Iran Talks 'Would Be Fine' By Steve Herman May 27, 2019 U.S. President Donald Trump says he would be fine with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe serving as a mediator between the United States and Iran. "The prime minister has already spoken to me about that," Trump said in response to a question from VOA."And I do believe that Iran would like to talk and if they'd like to talk we'd like to talk also. We'll see what happens. But I know for a fact that the prime minister is very close with the leadership of Iran." Trump spoke as he and Abe opened a meeting Monday at the Japanese state guest house. U.S. - Iran tensions escalated in recent weeks as Trump ended waivers that had allowed some of Iran's biggest oil buyers to continue making purchases despite new U.S. sanctions, and as he increased the U.S. military presence in the Gulf in response to what he said were Iranian threats. Trump and Abe are scheduled to hold a news conference Monday afternoon after their talks that were to include military and trade matters. No quick breakthrough on trade is expected although both leaders have expressed a desire for a bilateral trade pact after Trump pulled the United States out of the comprehensive 12-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership, which Tokyo had spearheaded with Washington under Trump's predecessor, Barack Obama. Trump said there would be an announcement on trade coming probably in August "that will be very good for both countries," and reiterated his desire to see a better trade balance between them. Earlier Monday, Trump became the first foreign leader to meet with Emperor Naruhito, who ascended to the throne May 1. Trump and first lady Melania Trump took part in an elaborate welcoming ceremony at the Imperial Palace. The U.S. delegation was greeted at the palace by several dozen elementary schoolchildren waving Japanese and American flags. A military band played the U.S. "Star Spangled Banner" and Kimigayo anthems. The emperor is hosting an imperial banquet at the palace Monday night. On Sunday, Trump and National Security Advisor John Bolton were publicly at odds about the seriousness of the threat currently posed by North Korea. In a Sunday morning tweet from Tokyo, Trump issued a retort to Bolton who the previous day here had told reporters that there was "no doubt" North Korea's recent test firing of short-range ballistic missiles violated a United Nations resolution. Bolton's remark was the first by a U.S. official describing the North Korean launches as a violation of U.N. resolutions. "North Korea fired off some small weapons which disturbed some of my people and others, but not me," said Trump in his tweet. Trump's tweet on North Korea caused confusion and consternation, not only within the administration but also among America's allies in the region, acknowledged senior White House officials traveling with the president Some analysts say the missile launches are indeed a concern. "It's pretty clear the missile launch was a violation of U.N. sanctions, whatever the range. The reality is that U.S. forces and civilians in South Korea and Japan are already in range of North Koreans missiles, so accepting shorter or mid-range missiles puts the United States at risk, not to mention our allies Japan and the Republic of Korea," Kevin Maher, a Washington security consultant and a former head of the State Department's Office of Japan Affairs, tells VOA. "These realities are inconvenient if the objective is to show a personal relationship with the dictator Kim Jung UN will stop North Korea's continuing nuclear and missile programs." The U.S. president also expressed confidence the North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un, "will keep his promise to me" in moving towards denuclearization. Trump said Monday there is "good respect" between the United States and North Korea, and he thinks "lots of good things will come." Trump and Kim have held two summits in Singapore and Hanoi. Neither has led to any significant breakthroughs although the meetings were seen as reducing tensions between the two countries which have no diplomatic relations and their leaders had never met before. The United States and North Korea were belligerents in a three-year war in the early 1950's which devastated the Korean peninsula. It ended with an armistice, but no peace treaty has ever been signed. Bolton, who 13 months ago replaced retired Army General H.R. McMaster as the president's national security adviser, is known as a hardliner who distrusts Pyongyang's intentions. North Korea has a long track record of violating international agreements and has repeatedly defied U.N. sanctions against its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs. Before Trump departs Japan on Tuesday, he is to visit the naval base at Yokosuka to tour a Japanese helicopter carrier and address American service personnel in conjunction with the U.S. Memorial Day holiday (observed on Monday). NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi court sentences 4th French citizen to death over Daesh membership Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 02:36PM An Iraqi court has sentenced to death a fourth French citizen for his suspected membership in the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group and committing crimes, a day after three others were also condemned to capital punishment over the same charge. Iraqi Judge Ahmed Mohammed on Monday sentenced Mustafa Mohammed Ibrahim, 37, to death by hanging, saying to the suspect that "the evidence and the confession show that you joined the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group, and that you worked in its military branch." The Daesh suspect was from France's Mediterranean city of Nice, with Tunisian origin. The court also postponed the verdict for a fifth French man, identified as Fadil Hamad Abdallah, 33, of Moroccan origin, after he testified to being allegedly tortured in detention. The judge referred him to a medical committee for investigation and set the suspect's next session for next Sunday. The judge also postponed the sentencing of three other Frenchmen until next Monday. On Sunday, the criminal court in the capital Baghdad also sentenced three other French citizens to death for joining the terror group and carrying out criminal operations. The three suspects, identified as Kevin Gonot, Leonard Lopez and Salim Machou, have 30 days to appeal their sentences. The French government says the Iraqi court has jurisdiction to rule in the cases. The Frenchmen on trial are among 12 French members of the terror group. Back in January, the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) had handed over them to Iraqi forces. Iraqi prosecutors say the 12 French citizens had been parties or accomplices to Daesh crimes, and had threatened the national security of Iraq. On June 3, 2018, an Iraqi court sentenced French citizen Melina Boughedir to life in prison for her suspected membership in the Daesh terror group. Arrested in the summer of 2017 in Mosul, the former de facto capital of Daesh, Boughedir was initially sentenced to seven months in prison by a court in February last year for "illegal" entry into Iraq and was set to be deported to her home country. However, another court ordered her re-trial under Iraq's anti-terrorist law and the French woman was found guilty of being a member of Daesh. Iraq has been trying hundreds of suspected Daesh members, many of whom were detained as the outfit's strongholds crumbled throughout Iraq. This includes hundreds of foreigners. Hundreds of European nationals traveled to the Middle East to join Daesh after the terror group captured large swathes of territory in Iraq and neighboring Syria in mid-2014. Former Iraqi prime minister Haider al-Abadi declared the end of military operations against Daesh in the country on December 9, 2017. On July 10 that year, he had formally declared victory over Daesh in Mosul, which served as the terrorists' main urban stronghold in the Arab country. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address S. Korean Authorities Launch Provocative Military Drill Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Date: 27/05/2019 Pyongyang, May 27 (KCNA) -- According to media reports, south Korean authorities launched Ulji Thaeguk drill throughout south Korea on May 27. The Ulji Thaeguk drill is a combination of Ulji drill, a part of Ulji Freedom Guardian, and Thaeguk drill, which the south Korean military has performed alone. The south Korean military authorities announced that the current drill will run till May 30 with the involvement of the units assigned to the Defence Ministry. Even more than 480 000 civilians from over 4 000 administrative bodies and public institutions of cities, counties and districts of south Korea will reportedly take part in the drill. The south Korean authorities decided to conduct a drill of reorganizing all work on a war footing to cope with the "provocation of a local war" by someone, including the issuing of mobilization order and emergency call of public officials, on the sidelines of the drill. It is said that the "prime minister" summoned the heads of central administrative bodies, mayors, provincial governors and commanding officers of the army to the building of the "government" in Seoul on May 14 to discuss the current drill. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel attacks Syria's defenses in SW, killing soldier Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 07:01PM Israel targets Syria's defenses in a southwestern province, killing one soldier, wounding another, and destroying a military vehicle. Citing one of its reporters, the official Syrian Arab News Agency reported in late Monday that the regime had fired one missile against the countryside of the city of Quneitra. The act of aggression targeted "a military site to the east of Khan Arnabeh" at 10:21 local time, it noted, citing a military source. The Israeli military said that it had attacked a Syrian anti-aircraft position after an Israeli warplane came under fire, Reuters reported. It claimed that the aircraft had come under fire from the stronghold earlier in the day. The military alleged that the jet was conducting a "routine flight in northern Israel" when it came under the fire. It also purported that the projectile had missed and the plane completed its journey. Quneitra houses Syria's Golan Heights. Israel has occupied the territory since 1967, technically putting the regime at war against Damascus. The so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a monitor, said the Israeli missile was reportedly fired from the Golan. Its director, Rami Abdel Rahman, told AFP that three Syrian soldiers had been wounded during the missile strike. In March, the United States, Israel's biggest ally, recognized the regime's "sovereignty" over Golan in a move that, observers say, was meant to embolden Tel Aviv in its encroachments against the Syrian government and people The occupying regime would recurrently strike Syria's fortifications nearby, claiming it seeks to secure "its own territory." Israel has also carried out numerous strikes against the military positions of Syria and its allies elsewhere across the Arab country. The regime has a history of treating the Takfiri terrorists fleeing the Syrian Army's operations. It once also notoriously provided safe passage for Western-backed self-proclaimed rescue workers, whom Damascus had found in cahoots with Takfiris. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lebanese MP warns of West's 'deep plan' for Syrian refugees Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 10:29AM The West's opposition to the return of Syrian refugees to their home country now that Daesh and other terrorist groups have been defeated shows that "a deep plan" is in the works about Syria's upcoming presidential election, says deputy speaker of Lebanon's parliament. Speaking to the Al Mayadeen TV, Elie Ferzli said Monday that "some parties" had floated the idea of giving Syrian refugees an alternative homeland in Lebanon because they were waiting for new developments in the region. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) says it has registered over 950,000 Syrians who have crossed the border to Lebanon after fleeing war in their country. Unofficial reports put the number at well above 1 million. 'Weapons in exchange for opposing return of refugees' Ferzli said some parties in Lebanon had agreed to resist any proposal to send back the refugees in exchange for weapons and equipment. He noted that there have been proposals on returning the Syrian refugees and keeping Palestinians who are residing in the country instead, while the UN has been doing its utmost to keep the Syrian nationals in Lebanon. He noted that Lebanon's security agencies together with Hezbollah and other resistance groups were working to foil all plots that revolved around the Syrian refugees. Ferzli's remarks came days after Hezbollah Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah reiterated his stance that Syrian refugees should return to their home country. "The Lebanese are united on helping the Syrian refugees return," he said. The issue of Syrian refugees has greatly divided Lebanese politicians. While Hezbollah, President Michel Aoun's Free Patriotic Movement and their allies have been calling for their immediate return, Prime Minister Saad Hariri's Future Movement and his allies say they should only return once a political solution is found to the crisis in Syria. Nasrallah said that "the real reason for the differences ... is linked to the upcoming Syrian presidential elections," noting that the issue had been marred by sectarianism. In early 2018, Russia, which together with Iran and Hezbollah has helped fight terror in Syria, announced an initiative to facilitate the large-scale return of the refugees in Lebanon. However, several Lebanese officials questioned Russia's intentions. According to Nasrallah, the US and its allies, along with several Arab states in the region, do not want the refugees to return before the elections in Syria. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel Says Attacked Anti-Aircraft Position in Syria, Casualties Reported Sputnik News 21:55 27.05.2019(updated 22:37 27.05.2019) An Israeli missile struck a target in the Syrian province of Quneitra on Monday; the attack caused a number of casualties, the SANA news agency reported. "An Israeli missile targeted Tel al-Shaar in Quneitra," the Syrian news agency stated, noting further that a "military vehicle was targeted and there are wounded". The number of wounded as well as the specific type of military equipment were not specified in the report. After reports about the attack emerged, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that it was behind the air strike on Syria. Also, the Israeli military said that it had struck a Syrian anti-aircraft position after an Israeli military jet came under fire. This comes after on 17 May, SANA reported that Syrian air defence systems had intercepted "luminous objects coming from the occupied territories, shooting down a number of them" from Israeli-controlled territory. Last month, Syria accused Tel Aviv of carrying out an airstrike against military bases in Masiaf, in northwestern Syria's Hama province. Earlier this month, Syrian air defences fired at projectiles that were launched from Israeli-controlled areas into southern Syria, according to SANA. Back then, the SANA correspondent reported from Quneitra Province that the "objects" were dealt with from the ground. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel Fires Missile on Syrian Military Site By VOA News May 27, 2019 An Israeli airstrike on a Syrian anti-aircraft position near the Golan Heights Monday killed one soldier and wounded three, Syria said. Israel called the rocket strike on Tal al-Shaar retaliation for a Syrian missile fired at an Israeli military jet it said was a routine flight. Israel only acknowledged firing at the Syrian position, but gave no other details. Israel has fired hundreds of missiles into Syrian territory at what it said were Iranian and Hezbollah military targets that threaten Israeli territory. Meanwhile, Syrian military strikes on Idlib province have killed at least 17, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports. At least five children are among the victims. Idlib is the last major section of northwestern Syria still in rebel hands. Video shot by Syrian White Helmet first responders show buildings reduced to dust, victims being loaded into ambulances and dazed survivors covered with white dust. The observatory said an airstrike on Idlib Sunday killed 12. Idlib has become home to hundreds of thousands of surrendering rebels and their families who fled from other areas to avoid attacks from Russian-backed Syrian forces. An agreement that was supposed to spare Idlib from Syrian attacks has all but fallen apart after the military increased its bombing campaign in April, killing more than 200. The Syrians want to take control of areas along a strategic highway in Idlib. U.N. officials have warned of a humanitarian catastrophe in Idlib if Syria and Russia launch an all-out attack on the province. Also Monday, Arabic-language media are reporting that Syrian government forces are engaged in a bloody battle with opposition fighters over control of Kafr Nabouda, a strategic town near Hama in western Syria. Government forces recaptured the town from rebel groups Sunday and are trying to fend off a new rebel onslaught to retake it. Dozens of fighters on both sides have reportedly been killed. Amateur video broadcast on Arab news channels showed bitter fighting between rebel militiamen and Syrian government forces on the outskirts of Kafr Nabouda. Edward Yeranian contributed to this report from Cairo. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syrian Army Repels Nusra Front Attack in Hama Province - Russian Military Sputnik News 00:51 28.05.2019(updated 00:52 28.05.2019) MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Syrian government forces repelled an attack by militants from the Al-Nusra Front* terrorist group in the north of Hama province on the night of May 26, which was carried out with support of tanks and multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS), the Russian centre for Syrian reconciliation said Monday. According to the centre's commander, Maj. Gen. Viktor Kupchishin, about 450 terrorists, seven tanks, five infantry fighting vehicles, and 12 off-road vehicles with large-calibre machine guns participated in the attack on the positions of the government forces near the town of Kafr Nabudah. The attack was supported by rocket fire from three MLRS systems. "During the defensive battle, the Syrian government forces destroyed three tanks, two MLRS systems, an infantry fighting vehicle, six off-road vehicles with heavy machine guns and killed about 100 militants," Kupchishin said at a daily news briefing. Earlier, Russian military reported that terrorists launched 38 rockets from the Idlib de-escalation zone on Syria's Al Suqaylabiyah, leaving 5 civilians dead and 12 more injured. *Al-Nusra Front is a terrorist group outlawed in Russia and many other countries. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Freeway to be partially closed for annual military drill ROC Central News Agency 2019/05/27 17:19:13 Taipei, May 27 (CNA) The section of road between Changhua City and Yuanlin City in Changhua County on the No. 1 National Freeway will be closed from 10:00 p.m. Monday to 12 p.m. Tuesday as part of the Han Kuang series of military exercises, Taiwan's largest annual military drill, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND). The five-day Han Kuang exercises started on Monday and are designed to test the combat capability of all branches of the armed forces, in the face of a continued military threat from China. The aircraft will practice emergency take-offs and landings in the central county of Changhua from 6:15 a.m. to 7:35 a.m. on Tuesday, on the Changhua-Yuanlin section of the main north-south No. 1 National Freeway that runs along the island's west coast, according to the MND. The exercise on the freeway-transformed defense road is being staged for the first time since President Tsai Ing-wen () took office in May 2016. In preparation for the drill, 1,375 median barriers, 111 street lights and 77 road signs have been removed from the section of the freeway, according to the Freeway Bureau. Each designated emergency runway on the freeway is nearly three kilometers in length, the bureau said Sunday, adding that road maintenance, including resurfacing, has been carried out in preparation for the exercises. After the drill, southbound lanes on the Changhua-Yuanlin section of No. 1 National Freeway and the southbound ramp on the Puyan Interchange will be closed again from 10:00 p.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. Wednesday for freeway restoration work, the bureau said, advising motorists to take Provincial Highway 19 instead. During the May 27-31 military exercises, live-fire drills will involve U.S.-made F-16V fighter jets, Taiwan's indigenous Clouded Leopard armored vehicles and two U.S.-made Perry-class guided missile frigates, according to the MND. Three of the main fighter aircraft models in Taiwan's military -- the F-16 A/B, Mirage 2000-5 and Indigenous Defensive Fighter (IDF) -- will take part in the exercises, along with E-2K airborne early warning aircraft, the Air Force said Sunday. As for the planned military exercise in the southern county of Pingtung on Thursday, which will be open to media coverage, it will involve attack helicopters, Thunderbolt-2000 missiles, CM11and CM22 armored vehicles, M110 self-propelled howitzers and CM-34 Clouded Leopard eight-wheeled armored vehicles, according the ministry. The Han Kuang exercises are annually held in two stages: first computer-aided war games before live-fire drills. This year's computer-aided war games were held from April 22 to April 26. (By Hsiao Po-wen, Matt Yu and Chung Yu-chen) Enditem/AW NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, Taiwanese security officials hold rare meeting amid China tensions Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 06:12AM High-ranking national security officials of Taiwan and the United States have held a rare meeting amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing. Taiwan's national security chief, David Lee, met with US National Security Advisor John Bolton earlier this month, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. The statement added that the meeting took place between May 13 and 21 during Lee's trip to the US and was meant to deepen cooperation between the two sides. "During the trip, together with US government officials, Secretary-General Lee met with representatives from our diplomatic allies, reiterating support and commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region," the statement said. The official Central News Agency described the meeting as the first of its kind since 1979, when Washington cut official diplomatic relations with Taiwan after recognizing the 'One China' principle, which considers Taiwan as an inalienable part of China's territory. Beijing has emphasized that US adherence to the 'One China' policy is the most important factor in determining relations with the country. It believes Taiwan should be brought back under Chinese control even by force if necessary. China on Monday responded to the news with anger, reaffirming its opposition to any form of official exchanges between the United States and Taiwan. "China is extremely dissatisfied and resolutely opposed to this," Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang told a daily news briefing. On the contrary, the meeting will be viewed in Taiwan as a sign of support from the administration of US President Donald Trump for the island's aspirations towards independence from mainland China. Despite having no formal ties with Taiwan, the US has sold Taipei more than $15 billion in arms since 2010 in defiance of opposition from China, according to the Pentagon. Tensions have been simmering between the United States and China over a range of issues, particularly a trade war as well as Washington's increased naval patrols in the Strait of Taiwan and the South China Sea. China has repeatedly slammed Washington's so-called "freedom of navigation" operations, calling the US to stop such provocative military moves and stay out of China's territorial disputes with its neighbors. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China 'Strongly' Opposes Bolton's Meeting With Taiwanese Security Chief Sputnik News 15:07 27.05.2019(updated 15:08 27.05.2019) BEIJING (Sputnik) - China strongly opposes any official meetings between the United States and Taiwan, including the recent talks between US National Security Adviser John Bolton and Taiwan's national security chief David Lee, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Monday. "The 'one China' principle remains a political foundation of the US-China relationship. We strongly oppose any official contacts between the United States and Taiwan," ministry spokesman Lu Kang said at a press briefing. The diplomat called on Washington to respect the so-called one China principle as well as the three joint US-China communiques, signed in 1970s and 1980s and defining the relationship between the two nations. Lee reportedly met with Bolton during his May 13-21 visit to the United States. Last week, China lodged a representation with the United States about the passing of two US warships through the strategic Taiwan Strait in the South China Sea. Beijing has long opposed the movement of vessels in the Taiwan Strait. The US, along with many other countries, does not recognise Taiwan as a sovereign nation and officially adheres to the "One China" policy. However, Washington has maintained informal relations with the de facto government of Taiwan despite breaking diplomatic ties with Taipei in 1979. Beijing considers Taiwan to be part of a united China. Relations between the two sides were cut in 1949 after the remnants of Chiang Kai-shek's forces fled to the island following their defeat on the mainland. Ties were partially restored in the 1980s. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK Labour vows to prevent no-deal Brexit, urges fresh votes Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 06:01PM Leader of Britain's main opposition Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn has warned he will not allow the ruling Conservatives to bring Britain out of the European Union in a disorderly manner and without an agreement. Corbyn said in a Monday statement that the only way to resolve a current political standoff over Brexit was to allow people in Britain to have a say on the issue through a fresh vote. "With the Conservatives disintegrating and unable to govern, and parliament deadlocked, this issue will have to go back to the people, whether through a general election or a public vote," Corbyn said. The remarks came just a day after results of the European Parliament elections showed the Labour and the Conservative Party had suffered unprecedented losses. The results have clearly caused Corbyn, once opposed to the idea of a second Brexit referendum, to accept calls from other lawmakers in Labour that pressing for a fresh vote would seriously boost chances of the party to rise to power. Corbyn said that the Labour would stand by its promises to bloc a no-deal Brexit, a scenario in which Britain would crash out of the EU without an agreement to cushion the shocks of exit. Experts believe that a no-deal Brexit would be indispensible at the end of October, when Britain is supposed to leave the EU, given that senior figures vying to replace Prime Minister Theresa May are supporting the idea. "We will not let the continuing chaos in the Conservative Party push our country into a no deal exit from the EU. Parliament can and will prevent such a damaging outcome for jobs and industry in the UK," said Corbyn in his statement. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK Labour leader calls for general election or second referendum Iran Press TV Mon May 27, 2019 04:31AM The leader of Britain's opposition Labour Party proposes again that the country's people be given a new say on Brexit, whether through a general election or a second referendum. By either re-electing their representatives -- who deal with Brexit on the official level -- or attending another referendum on the matter, the public would be given a new chance to choose whether the country should remain in or leave the European Union, Reuters quoted Jeremy Corbyn on Monday as saying. In June 2016, the country voted in favor of departure from the EU by March 29 this year. The deadline was, however, missed as London failed to strike a deal with the bloc on the status of bilateral relations following the separation. Parliament has, meanwhile, repeatedly frowned on the composition of deals proposed by former premier Theresa May and negotiated between her and European officials. "With the Conservatives disintegrating and unable to govern, and parliament deadlocked, this issue will have to go back to the people, whether through a general election or a public vote," Corbyn said. "Over the coming days we will have conversations across our party and movement, and reflect on these results on both sides of the Brexit divide," he added. Corbyn had called for the elections on Friday too after May announced her resignation in the aftermath of the long-drawn-out deadlock with Parliament. He had said in a tweet that May was "right to resign" and whoever replaced her as leader of the ruling Conservative Party had to call an election. A whole array of officials are now vying for premiership, most notably UK Environment Secretary Michael Gove, a prominent member of the Conservative Party, and former foreign secretary Boris Johnson. The next Tory leader will be elected in July in a postal ballot of 100,000 party members. The vote will be on two final candidates chosen by party members from the current pool of aspirants. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Moscow Court Upholds Extending Pretrial Detention Of Ukrainian Sailors By RFE/RL's Russian Service May 27, 2019 A Moscow court has upheld a decision to extend the pretrial detainment period for the 24 Ukrainian seamen captured by Russia in November 2018, defying a UN maritime-tribunal ruling that the sailors be immediately released. The Moscow City Court on May 27 upheld the Lefortovo district court's ruling in April to keep the seamen in jail until July, pending further investigation and trial. The lawyers of the sailors had filed an appeal against the extension. The decision came two days after the Hamburg-based International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea ruled that Russia must "immediately" release 24 Ukrainian sailors and three Ukrainian naval vessels it captured. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on May 27 dismissed the ruling, saying Moscow would continue to "consistently defend its point of view." Peskov claimed that the convention did not apply in the current case. Russia seized the ships in November near the Kerch Strait bridge, which connects the Russian mainland to the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea. Relations between Russia and Ukraine have been tense since Moscow annexed Crimea in March 2014 and began providing military, political, and economic support to separatist formations waging a war against Kyiv in parts of eastern Ukraine. With reporting by AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/moscow-court-upholds -extending-pretrial-detention-of- ukrainian-sailors/29966060.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 Zelenskiy Makes First Visit To Ukraine's Front Line By RFE/RL May 27, 2019 KYIV -- Donning a bulletproof helmet and vest over business attire, Volodymyr Zelenskiy made his first visit as president and supreme commander in chief to the front line of the war in eastern Ukraine with Russia-backed separatists that has killed 13,000 people and shows no sign of ending. During the May 27 visit, which was not announced ahead of time, Zelenskiy met with Ukrainian troops in the war-torn towns of Stanytsia Luhanska and Shchastya in the Luhansk region, according to the presidential press service. The press service said the newly elected head of state made the trip to get acquainted with the positions of the Ukrainian military. Zelenskiy also spoke with soldiers about living conditions, food quality, equipment, housing, social benefits, and staffing of units, the press service added. "The conditions for the military that defends Ukraine must be good," Zelenskiy was quoted as saying. Official photographs showed Zelenskiy, who donned slacks and a blue-collared shirt with the sleeves rolled up, looking over a military map with soldiers, treading through a field with them, and peering through a lookout toward enemy positions from inside a bunker. His predecessor, Petro Poroshenko, preferred to wear military camouflage fatigues on his frequent visits to the front line. Zelenskiy, who was inaugurated on May 20 after a landslide victory over Poroshenko, has said that bringing the war to an end is among his top priorities and that he is prepared to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in order to do so. But Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said that Putin, who did not congratulate Zelenskiy on his election victory, will do so after the Ukrainian leader resolves "the internal conflict in southeastern Ukraine" and his "first successes in normalizing Russian-Ukrainian relations." The Kremlin has repeatedly denied fueling the war, which entered its sixth year last month, despite overwhelming evidence showing that it has covertly supported separatist forces in eastern Ukraine with funds, military equipment, and fighters. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/zelenskiy- makes-first-visit-to-ukraine -front-line/29966173.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 Northern Horizon Capital AS as the management company of Baltic Horizon Fund signed an agreement with Linstow AS to aquire 100% shares of Tampere Invest SIA, which owns Galerija Centrs Shopping Centre in the heart of Riga. The purchase price is EUR 75 million, which corresponds to an estimated entry yield of approximately 6,7%. The transaction is expected to close by the beginning of June 2019. The Galerija Centrs property is located on Audeju Street 16, 1050 in Riga Old Town, next to the National Opera. As a block of Old Town, the 5-floor property complex consists of two buildings connected with a passage of glass roofed arcade. Originally opened as Army Department Store in 1938, the high street retail centre was last refurbished in 2006 with an added extension. The net leasable area of the property is 20,073 m2 . The anchor tenants include H&M, RIMI, Massimo Dutti, Douglas, Lindex, Esprit, Gant, Marc OPolo, Max Mara Weekend and others. The fifth floor houses a healthcare centre, a beauty salon and a fitness club. We are very pleased to add such a stable landmark cash-flow property to our portfolio. After the acquisition, the fund will strategically own a centrally located retail asset in the heart of every Baltic capital: Galerija Centrs in Riga, Postimaja in Tallinn and Europa Shopping Center in Vilnius. With this position, we strive to become a long-term prime landlord partner for top retailers in the Baltic market who look to develop their current and new brand portfolios. With the acquisition, Baltic Horizon Fund will also become the largest diversified commercial real estate investment fund in the Baltics with close to EUR 350 million assets under management, commented fund manager Tarmo Karotam. As part of the transaction, Linstow AS, has agreed to subscribe for Baltic Horizon Fund units for the amount of EUR 4 million. The management company is undertaking to arrange issuance of new fund units, the number of which is equal to the subscription amount divided by the latest net asset value per fund unit preceding to closing by way of private placement. The issuance and listing of new units is expected to take place shortly after closing. For additional information, please contact: Tarmo Karotam Baltic Horizon Fund manager E-mail tarmo.karotam@nh-cap.com www.baltichorizon.com Baltic Horizon Fund is a registered contractual public closed-end real estate fund managed by Alternative Investment Fund Manager license holder Northern Horizon Capital AS. This announcement contains information that Northern Horizon Capital AS is obliged to disclose pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. It was submitted for publication, through the agency of the above distributors, at 18:35 EET on 27 May 2019. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 27, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- East Africa Metals Inc. (TSX-V: EAM) (East Africa or the Company). In advance of the upcoming Annual General Meeting (to be held at Suite 1100 595 Howe Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, on May 31, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time), the Company is pleased to provide the following update to shareholders. Highlights: The Mato Bula and Da Tambuk Mining Licenses formally granted to East Africa; and Negotiations with Tibet Huayu Mining Co. Ltd. (Tibet Huayu) regarding the sale of up to 70% interest on the granting of licenses (see News Release dated May, 21, 2019) and the Tibet Huayu Project Financing (see News Release dated February 11, 2019). Ethiopian Licences Following the announcement of the approval of the Mining Licences (see News Release dated May 21, 2019), Andrew Lee Smith, the Companys CEO, attended a signing ceremony on Thursday, May 23, 2019 in Addis Ababa, at which the licences were formally granted to EAM by the Minister of Mines. The ceremony marks the final step in the process of the licence grants. Andrew Lee Smith, the Companys CEO stated, With the formal approval of the Mato Bula and Da Tambuk mining licenses, East Africas assets now include four, fully permitted gold and base metal mining projects in Africa. Over the past seven years East Africa has been able to advance our projects from discovery through to advanced development phase at a pace that is seldom seen in emerging resource sectors. The performance of the exploration programs designed and implemented by East Africa are notable, not only due to short time-frame it has taken to achieve the milestone of this past week, but also by the extremely low discovery cost of US$11/ounce. This metric speaks not only to the tremendous mineral endowment of Ethiopia, but also to skill and experience East Africas technical staff has applied to the highly prospective geological environment of the Tigray region. As we look back to the achievements of the last seven years in Ethiopia, we are confident of continued success going forward. Tibet Huayu Sale and Project Development Financing Following meetings in Beijing, May 14-16, the Company and Tibet Huayu are now in the process of completing the draft Sale Purchase Agreements and Joint Venture Contracts and finalizing the terms of the proposed transaction described in the binding letter of intent (see News Release dated February 9, 2019). These documents will define the transaction that will see the East Africa transfer to Tibet Huayu Mining, up to 70% of the Companys equity interest in its Ethiopian subsidiary companies; Tigray Resources Inc. (TRI 100% owner of East Africas Adyabo Project) and Tigray Ethiopia Holdings Inc. (TEHI 70% owner of East Africas Harvest Project). The terms proposed in the binding letter of intent include Tibet Huayus obligation to: Provide a cash payment of US$1.7M to East Africa; Finance, develop and operate the Terakimti, Da Tambuk and Mato Bula projects. The transaction also contemplates East Africa will retain the mineral rights, and all exploration obligations for the prospective targets not incorporated in the three mining licenses (EAM Mineral Resources). East Africa shall give Tibet Huayu a right of first refusal of reasonable duration to acquire future EAMs Mineral Resources based on mutually agreeable terms similar to those defined by the current transaction. More information on the Company can be viewed at the Companys website: www.eastafricametals.com . On behalf of the Board of Directors: Andrew Lee Smith, P.Geo., CEO For further information contact: Nick Watters, Business Development Telephone +1 (604) 488-0822 Email investors@eastafricametals.com Website www.eastafricametals.com Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "forecast", "project", "budget", "schedule", "may", "will", "could", "might", "should", indicate, confident or variations of such words or similar words or expressions. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by the Company as at the date of such information and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: closing of the Tibet Huayu Transaction; obtaining all required approvals for the Tibet Huayu Transaction; the ability of Tibet Huayu to develop and operate the Ethiopia Projects and Properties within the required laws and agreements; the outcome of the arbitration case with the Developer; if the arbitration case is successful that the Company can occupy the site and advance the Tanzanian projects; if the arbitration is successful the Tanzanian Definitive Agreement payments are not refundable; recoverability of the Ethiopian and Tanzanian VAT receivable; early exploration; the ability of East Africa to identify any other corporate opportunities for the Company; the possibility that the Company may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service its planned operations and may be force to take other options; the risk the Company may not be able to continue as a going concern; the possibility the Company will require additional financing to develop the Ethiopian Projects into a mining operation; the risks associated with obtaining necessary licenses or permits including and not limited to Ethiopian Government approval of EAM Mineral Resources extensions for the Companys Ethiopian Properties and Projects; risks associated with mineral exploration and development; metal and mineral prices; availability of capital; accuracy of the Companys projections and estimates, including the initial and any updates to the mineral resource for the Adyabo, Harvest and Handeni Projects; realization of mineral resource estimates; interest and exchange rates; competition; stock price fluctuations; availability of drilling equipment and access; actual results of exploration activities; government regulation; political or economic developments; foreign taxation risks; environmental risks; insurance risks; capital expenditures; operating or technical difficulties in connection with development activities; personnel relations; the speculative nature of strategic metal exploration and development including the risks of contests over title to properties; and changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, as well as those risk factors set out in the Companys listing application, East Africas financial statements and managements discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2018, and East Africas listing application dated July 8, 2013. Mineral Resources which 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, sociopolitical, marketing, or other relevant issues. The quantity and grade of reported inferred mineral resources as the estimation is uncertain in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define any inferred mineral resources as an indicated or measured mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in upgrading inferred mineral resources to an indicated or measured mineral resource category. The contained gold, copper and silver figures shown are in situ. No assurance can be given that the estimated quantities will be produced. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to the price of precious and base metals; the demand for precious and base metals; the ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the timely receipt of any required approvals; the ability to obtain qualified personnel, equipment and services in a timely and cost-efficient manner; the ability to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner; and the regulatory framework including and not limited to license approvals, social and environmental matters, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. The Company does not update or revise forward looking information even if new information becomes available unless legislation requires the Company to do so. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information contained herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. 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. London, United Kingdom, May 27, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ePac Holdings Europe is pleased to announce the appointment of Nick Monk as Director of Sales for the UK and Ireland markets. Mr. Monks initial focus will be on building a direct sales team and customer engagement. Nick has over 20 years of senior management experience in the packaging sector, most recently with MCC Labels in the UK leading their Daventry site and doubling revenue in just four years. As announced on April 8, 2019, ePac Holdings Europe has been formed in partnership with ePac Flexible Packaging, with the first location being ePac UK. Built on break-through digital printing technology, ePac is the market leader focused on fast time to market for pouches and rollstock ePac UK is currently open for sales, with order fulfillment handled out of ePacs US locations until the plant is operational in late 2019. All ePac locations are full-service manufacturing plants with prepress, digital printing, laminating, and pouch making performed in-house. According to Johnny Hobeika, Managing Director of ePac Holdings Europe: We are delighted to welcome Nick to the ePac family. His know-how and relationships across the UK and Ireland will be instrumental to our growth and promises to help our customers explore the full power of digital printing. We are excited to get started, and build on the rapid growth ePac has achieved since first opening 3 years ago in the US. Focused primarily on food manufacturers and co-packers, ePac serves brands of all sizes in local markets with a unique service model based on the latest in digital printing technology, the HP Indigo 20000. ePac ships finished pouches in 15 business days once artwork is finalized, and in 10 business days for rollstock. With low minimum order requirements, and specializing in short and medium run length orders, ePac enables brands to order to demand and avoid inventory and obsolescence. To learn more about ePac visit ePacFlexibles.CO.UK About ePac Flexible Packaging: Established in 2016; ePac is the first North American company based entirely on break-through digital printing technology from HP, Inc., the Indigo 20000. With 5 manufacturing locations operational in the US, 11 more to be added, and expansion into Europe, ePac is the largest company in the world offering the advantages of digital printing for flexible packaging to the communities and customers it serves. ePacFlexibles.CO.UK VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ICC International Cannabis Corp. (CSE: WRLD.U)(FWB: 8K51)(OTC: WLDCF) ("ICC" or International Cannabis or the Company) is pleased to announce that the Company has entered into a binding Letter of Intent (the Agreement) with AgraFlora Organics International Inc. (AgraFlora) (CSE: AGRA)(Frankfurt: PU31)(OTC: PUFXF), to acquire 100 per cent of AgraFloras Colombian pharmacy operation, Farma Swiss S.A.S. (Farma Swiss). The Agreement provides International Cannabis with a coveted LATAM brick-and-mortar presence, as well as existing high-profile commercial agreement, further augmenting the Companys THC/CBD cultivation capabilities and robust logistical infrastructure. ICCs addition of a premier downstream Colombian asset thus conceives a compliant and secure platform for the distribution of medical cannabis and cannabinoid-derived products within Colombia. It is anticipated that ICC will deploy a custom-made pharmacy compound strategy, originating with its inaugural Farma Swiss Colombian location. Farma Swiss operates a licensed pharmacy strategically situated within a high traffic, commercial neighbourhood of Medellin, Colombia. Farma Swiss fully licenced brick and mortar pharmacy operation is equipped with the following ancillary, value-added services: Inbound prescription call centre, augmented by advanced supply chain and CRM software suites; Domestic delivery service, providing local clientele with a vast array of medical pharmaceutical and over-the-counter (OTC) products; On-site health related services and consulting; Proposed cannabinoid education and doctor detailing staging ground; and, Virtual channel capabilities. David Shpilt, Chief Executive Officer of International Cannabis stated: The proposed acquisition of Farma Swiss represents yet another material development within the LATAM theatre for ICC; affording us the opportunity further leverage our first mover advantage within the Colombian medical cannabis market by directly servicing more than five million potential patients within the country. By integrating Farma Swiss intuitive pharmacy platform, with our 13-hectare cannabis centre of excellence and a preeminent catalogue of native Colombian cannabis genetics, ICC will continue to solidify its leadership position within Colombias high competitive medical cannabis marketplace, while streamlining patients access to our unique formulations. ICCs acquisition of Farma Swiss augments recently concluded commercial arrangements between AgraFlora and ICC, completing the Companies symbiotic vertically integrated global cannabis mandates: Five-year term off-take agreement whereby ICC may purchase up to 100,000,000 grams of premium dried cannabis flower from AgraFlora's Delta Greenhouse Complex; and, AgraFloras assignment of its library of 20 unique Colombian cannabis genetics to International Cannabis, including prominent THC and CBD varietals, such as: Caucana; Purpura; Medellin Gold; Maroc Brandon Boddy, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of AgraFlora noted: This strategic transaction further crystalizes our alliance with ICC with regards our collaborative pursuit of the burgeoning global cannabis trade. Monetizing of our flagship pharmacy operation to a trusted ally, permits us to streamline our international cannabis operations while focusing on the continued retrofit of our world class greenhouse complex in Delta, BC. We are excited to hereby increasing our shareholdings in ICC as they continue to execute upon their international business mandate and embark upon realizing material cash flows. International Cannabis also announces that the Company is actively investigating complementary pharmacy related assets within Colombia that may serve as synergistic accompaniments to its acquisition of Farma Swiss. Further details will be provided in due course as due diligence progresses. As per the terms of the Agreement, International Cannabis will issue AgraFlora such number of common shares in the capital of ICC that is equal to $250,000 based upon the five-day variable weighted average price of ICCs common shares for the five trading sessions prior to the announcement of the agreement. About AgraFlora Organics International Inc. AgraFlora Organics International Inc. is a growth oriented and diversified company focused on the international cannabis industry. It owns an indoor cultivation operation in London, ON and is a joint venture partner in Propagation Service Canada and its large-scale 2,200,000 sq. ft. greenhouse complex in Delta, BC. The Company has a successful record of creating shareholder value and is actively pursuing other opportunities within the cannabis industry. For more information please visit: www.agraflora.com . ABOUT INTERNATIONAL CANNABIS ICC International Cannabis, through its subsidiaries, has operating assets and is developing a world-class platform for cultivation, extraction, formulation and distribution across the globe in the United Kingdom, Denmark, Poland, Switzerland, Germany, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Malta, Colombia, Argentina, Australia, South Africa and Lesotho. ON BEHALF OF THE ICC INTERNATIONAL CANNABIS CORP BOARD OF DIRECTORS David Shpilt David Shpilt Chief Executive Officer +001 (604) 687-2038 info@intlcannabiscorp.com Investor Relations Contact: kris@intlcannabiscorrp.com +001 (416) 597-5769 For ICC French inquiries: Remy Scalabrini, Maricom Inc. E: rs@maricom.ca T: +001 (888) 585-MARI Learn more about ICC by visiting our website at: https://intlcannabiscorp.com/ ON BEHALF OF THE AGRAFLORA ORGANICS INTERNATIONAL INC BOARD OF DIRECTORS Brandon Boddy Chairman & CEO For additional information: AgraFlora Organics International Inc. Tim McNulty E: ir@agraflora.com T: (800) 783-6056 For French inquiries: Remy Scalabrini, Maricom Inc. E: rs@maricom.ca T: (888) 585-MARI THE CSE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS RELEASE. Notice Regarding Forward Looking Information: This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "continue", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or information that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. This information is only a prediction. Various assumptions were used in drawing the conclusions or making the projections contained in the forward-looking information throughout this news release. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to: political changes in Canada and internationally, future legislative and regulatory developments involving cannabis in Canada and internationally, the Companys ability to secure distribution channels in international jurisdictions, competition and other risks affecting the Company in particular and the cannabis industry generally. The forward-looking information contained in this release is expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements and is made as of the date of this release. Except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward- looking information to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise. PRESS RELEASE Algenex and Global DX sign agreement to develop and commercialize diagnostic products for the detection of African Swine Fever Madrid (Spain) and Stirling (UK), May 28, 2019 Algenex SL, a private biotechnology company delivering disruptive technologies for recombinant biologics production, and Global DX Ltd, a company dedicated to improving the quality of animal care by facilitating accurate diagnosis for veterinarians worldwide, today announce that they have entered into an agreement to jointly develop and commercialize diagnostic products for the detection of African Swine Fever. The first product to be developed will be a point-of-care rapid diagnostic test to identify pigs who have been exposed to the African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV). The agreement is the first collaboration between the two companies and provides the framework for further co-developments across a potentially wide range of diagnostic areas. Under the terms of the agreement, Algenex will deliver the diagnostic reagents and Global DX will provide the technical expertise to develop and manufacture the point-of-care rapid diagnostic tests. Both companies will collaborate in the distribution of the final product, which is anticipated to be ready for commercialisation in Europe by the end of 2019. African Swine Fever is a severe viral disease for which there is currently no available vaccine. It affects domestic pigs and wild boars and causes high mortality, approaching 100% in less than 10 days in acute cases. The clinical symptoms of the ASFV infection are similar to those of Classical Swine Fever, and the two diseases can only be differentiated through laboratory diagnosis. The disease was eradicated in Europe (with the exception of Sardinia) in the 1990s via drastic control and eradication programs. Algenex Founder and Chief Scientific Officer, Jose Angel Escribano, played a role in the eradication of the virus in Europe during this time, contributing to the development of some of the OIE reference diagnostic tests. In 2007, the disease spread again out of Africa into the Caucasus, Russia and more recently into China, where it has led to the slaughter of several million pigs in an effort to control the dissemination of the virus. In 2014, the ASFV reached the eastern territories of the European Union. Latest reports imply the disease has reached a growing list of countries in the EU, Eastern Europe, the Baltics and other Asian territories aside from China, representing possibly the most serious threat that the global veterinary industry has had to face in the last decades. We are excited to be joining forces with Global DX to develop diagnostic products for the detection of the ASFV, said Claudia Jimenez, General Manager of Algenex. By combining Algenex expertise in protein expression and an understanding of the ASFV through the involvement of our Founder in the previous eradication campaign, with Global DXs diagnostic capabilities, we have the potential to play an important role in stopping the further dissemination of this highly contagious disease that is already having devastating consequences in China and across other geographies. Global DX is very excited to partner with Algenex in the development of this rapid test. The test to be developed will constitute an important element in the battle against African Swine Fever, adding a product with a high unmet need to our growing catalogue and placing us at the forefront of innovation in veterinary diagnostics, said Andrew Shepherd, Founder and CEO of Global DX. For further information, please contact: Algenex contact Global DX contact Claudia Jimenez Andrew Shepherd General Manager Founder & CEO T: +34 91 452 4941 T: +44 1259 230830 cjimenez@algenex.com andrew.shepherd@globaldx.com About Algenex Algenex is a private biotechnology company developing disruptive technologies for the production of recombinant biologics. Algenex first two platforms, TopBac and CrisBio, are based on baculovirus-based expression systems and have demonstrated their capacity to transform recombinant protein production through a process that provides almost unlimited and immediate scalability of manufacturing, production flexibility, simplicity and versatility while being extremely cost efficient. To date, Algenex work has centred mainly on the development and production of veterinary vaccines, with > 200 molecules successfully produced in collaboration with public and private partners, including multiple international pharmaceutical companies. Algenex plans to expand the application of its proprietary and patented technologies into human health in order to fully exploit the potential of its platforms. For more information, please visit http://www.algenex.com About Global DX English Danish Company announcement no. 02 2019/20 Inside information Allerd, 28 May 2019 Annual Report 2018/19 Matas meets profit guidance, acquires Kosmolet A/S and steps up investments as planned The Board of Directors of Matas A/S today considered and approved the financial statements for Q4 2018/19 and the annual report for the financial year 1 April 2018 31 March 2019. In Q4 2018/19, Matas grew overall revenue by 7.6%. Underlying like-for-like revenue rose by 2.1% and EBITDA before exceptional items increased. We improved our financial performance in the final quarter of the financial year, growing our top line on the back of the acquisition of Firtal and supported also by our existing business. Once again, we are delivering healthy and stable full-year earnings despite our substantial investments in future growth and earnings capacity, states CEO Gregers Wedell-Wedellsborg. Firtal Group, which Matas acquired in November 2018, is performing in line with expectations, and online sales via matas.dk grew by more than 50% in the past financial year. In total, online sales accounted for 11% of overall revenue in Q4 2018/19 as compared with 4% a year earlier. For financial year 2018/19 as a whole, Matas delivered EBITDA before exceptional items of DKK 549 million, slightly down on the DKK 555 million reported for financial year 2017/18. Revenue was up by 2.2% year on year to DKK 3,541 million, while underlying like-for-like revenue growth was 0.5%. Affected primarily by higher digitalisation costs, the EBITDA margin before exceptional items was 15.5% against 16.0% for 2017/18. As such, the full-year performance was in line with the upgraded guidance specified in connection with the release of the interim financial statements for Q3 2018/19. (DKKm) 2018/19 2017/18 Q4 2018/19 Q4 2017/18 Revenue 3,541 3,465 828 769 Gross profit 1,589 1,549 377 342 EBIT 363 369 49 35 EBITDA 530 535 93 82 EBITDA before exceptional items 549 555 96 84 Profit for the period 263 280 33 32 Adjusted profit after tax 343 356 53 47 Cash flow from operating activities 451 384 45 6 EBITDA margin 15.0% 15.4% 11.2% 10.6% EBITDA margin before exceptional items 15.5% 16.0% 11.6% 10.9% Revenue growth 2.2% (1.3)% 7.6% (2.7)% Underlying like-for-like revenue growth 0.5% (1.4)% 2.1% (2.6)% Private label portfolio strengthened by new acquisition Today, Matas entered into an agreement to acquire Kosmolet A/S, the owner of the successful Danish makeup brand Nilens Jord. Known for its allergy-friendly and sustainable profile, Nilens Jord is the best-selling makeup brand carried by Matas. With the acquisition of Nilens Jord, we are adding the best-selling makeup brands to our portfolio of private labels, while at the same time welcoming a successful and financially sound business with a competent organisation to our family, states CEO Gregers Wedell-Wedellsborg. As Matas already carries Nilens Jord, the acquisition will have a limited effect on revenue, but is expected to boost annual EBITDA by up to DKK 25 million after completion of the integration. Exceptional items of about DKK 5 million are expected to be incurred in 2019/20. Matas will pay DKK 145 million for Kosmolet A/S, of which DKK 10 million will be paid in Matas shares. In addition, an earn-out agreement of up to DKK 20 million has been agreed. The acquisition is subject to confirmatory due diligence, which is expected to be completed in June 2019. Dividend Based on the performance for the year, the acquisition of Firtal Group and the expected acquisition of Kosmolet A/S as well as the Groups financial targets for 2019/20, the Board of Directors recommends that a dividend of DKK 3.00 per share be distributed. Stepping up investments We are off to a good start with our strategy Renewing Matas, which has delivered its first positive results. However, the ongoing transformation of the retail industry will continue, and we expect competition to intensify even further. Against this background, we are stepping up our investments as planned with a view to retaining our position as our customers preferred choice whether shopping at our physical stores or online, states CEO Gregers Wedell-Wedellsborg. During the current financial year, Matas will continue its digital build-up with initiatives including faster delivery, addition of new brands to the product range, improved online customer service and subscription solutions designed to make our customers lives easier. Matas will also accelerate the upgrading of stores and the adjustment of the retail network. Matas is currently testing its future store concept, Matas Life, which was launched in March 2019. So far, nine stores have been upgraded to the new concept, and the roll-out is planned to continue in 2019/20 in at least 30 additional locations. The roll out will consist of both upgrades and mergers of a number of small stores into larger stores with more attractive locations. Based on the planned levels of investment and activity, Matas expects positive underlying like-for-like revenue growth going forward to 2022/23. Factoring in the digital build-up and higher costs relating to investments for growth, the EBITDA margin before exceptional items for 2019/20 is expected to be down on 2018/19. Financial targets The Groups financial targets for financial year 2019/20, including the full-year effects of Firtal Group and the effects of the acquisition of Kosmolet A/S from closing, are as follows: Overall revenue growth of 3.5 6.5% Underlying like-for-like revenue growth of 0.5 2.5%. An EBITDA margin before exceptional items of 14 15% (before effects of IFRS 16). CAPEX of DKK 200 220 million. Investments of about DKK 145 million for acquisition of Kosmolet A/S, of which DKK 10 million will be paid in Matas shares. In 2019/20, the effect of the introduction of IFRS 16 is expected to increase the EBIDTA margin by about 4 percentage points. In addition IFRS 16 will lead to a technical increase in Matas debt by around DKK 950 m, while increasing the assets by the same amount. Financial ambitions The Groups financial ambitions going forward to 2022/23 are specified as follows: Overall 2022/23 revenue of about DKK 4 billion. Positive underlying like-for-like revenue growth going forward to 2022/23 (revised). Previously: positive underlying like-for-like growth from financial year 2020/21 at the latest. An EBITDA margin before exceptional items above 14% towards the end of the strategy period (before effects of IFRS 16). Average annual CAPEX of DKK 120 140 million, with investments skewed to the first three years of the strategy period. A gearing ratio (before effects of IFRS 16) of 2.5 3 (ratio of net interest-bearing debt to EBITDA before exceptional items). The gearing ratio should not materially exceed 3 for longer periods of time (specified). Conference call Matas will host a conference call for investors and analysts on 28 May 2019 at 11:00 a.m. (CEST). The conference call and presentation can be accessed on our investor website: www.investor.en.matas.dk. Conference call access numbers for investors and analysts: DK: +45 32 72 80 42 UK: +44 (0) 844 571 8892 US: +1 631 510 7495 Event code: 8298779 Please call 5-10 minutes before the conference call begins. Link to webcast: https://edge.media-server.com/m6/p/2iiwxefc Annual general meeting The annual general meeting will be held on Thursday, 27 June 2018 at 4:00 p.m. (CEST) at IDA Mdecenter, Kalvebod Brygge 31-33, DK-1780 Copenhagen V, Denmark. Contacts Gregers Wedell-Wedellsborg CEO, tel +45 48 16 55 55 Anders T. Skole-Srensen CFO, tel +45 48 16 55 55 Elisabeth Toftmann Klintholm Head of Investor Relations & Corporate Affairs, tel +45 48 16 55 48 Klaus Fridorf Head of Communication, tel +45 61 20 19 97 Forward-looking statements This announcement contains statements relating to the future, including statements regarding the Matas Group's future operating results, financial position, cash flows, business strategy and future targets. Such statements are based on managements reasonable expectations and forecasts at the time of release of this announcement. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and a number of other factors, many of which are beyond the Matas Group's control. This may have the effect that actual results may differ significantly from the expectations expressed in the announcement. Without being exhaustive, such factors include general economic and commercial factors, including market and competitive conditions, supplier issues and financial and regulatory issues. Attachment NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN OR THE UNITED STATES DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN OR THE UNITED STATES OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH THE RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF ANY OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN. Oslo, 28 May 2019 Belships ASA (OSE: BEL; "Belships" or the "Company") has retained Danske Bank Norwegian Branch, DNB Markets, a part of DNB ASA, and Pareto Securities AS (together, the "Managers") as Joint Lead Managers and Bookrunners, to advise on and effect a private placement of new shares (the "Offer Shares"), directed towards Norwegian and international investors, subject to applicable exemptions from relevant registration, filing and prospectus requirements, and subject to other applicable selling restrictions, after the close of Oslo Stock Exchange today (the "Private Placement"). Through the Private Placement, the Company seeks to raise up to the NOK equivalent of USD 15 million. The price in the Private Placement has been set to NOK 7.00 per share. The following persons associated with the Company will participate in the Private Placement by applying for a total of 237,500 Offer Shares: Peter Frlich, Chairman of the Board: 75,000 Offer Shares, Birthe Cecilie Lepse, Board member: 7,500 Offer Shares, Jorunn Seglem, Board member: 35,000 Offer Shares, Torinitamar AS, a company controlled by CEO Lars Christian Skarsgard: 35,000 Offer Shares, Krino Invest AS, a company controlled by CFO Osvald Fossholm: 35,000 Offer Shares and Jan Erik Sivertsen, CEO of Kontrari AS and Kontrazi AS: 50,000 shares. Net proceeds from the Private Placement will be used to support the Company's stated strategy to grow accretively as a fully integrated shipowner and operator of geared dry bulk vessels, including financing of the cash consideration associated with future vessel acquisitions, as well as general corporate purposes. As noted in the Company's Q1 report, Belships has a positive outlook on the dry bulk market, and believes it can sustain its strong performance relative to the market. The three recently agreed vessel acquisitions demonstrates the Company's ability to develop attractive vessel acquisition opportunities, and the sellers' acceptance of receiving partial or full consideration in Belships shares has allowed Belships to broaden and strengthen its shareholder base, increase free float in the share, and execute these three vessel acquisitions with a positive impact on the Company's available liquidity. Simultaneously, it demonstrates the sellers' trust and belief in Belships' technical and commercial platform, and ability to deliver strong relative performance going forward. While the Company believes additional "ship for shares" transactions may be available also going forward, the Company wishes to retain the flexibility to execute on growth opportunities which may require partial or full settlement in cash. The application period for the Private Placement opens today at 16:30 CEST on 28 May 2019 and closes at 08:00 CEST on 29 May 2019. The Company and the Managers may at their sole discretion extend or shorten the application period at any time and for any reason. If the application period is extended or shortened the other dates referred to herein may be amended accordingly. The minimum subscription and allocation amount in the Private Placement will be the NOK equivalent of EUR 100,000, provided that the Company may, at its sole discretion, allocate an amount below EUR 100,000 to the extent applicable exemptions from the prospectus requirement pursuant to the Norwegian Securities Trading Act and ancillary regulations, or similar legislation in other jurisdictions, are available. Allocation of the Offer Shares will be determined at the end of the application period, and final allocation will be made by the Company's Board of Directors at its sole discretion. Completion of the Private Placement is subject to approval by the Board of Directors pursuant to an authorisation granted by the Company's general meeting held 23 May 2019. Notification of allocation is expected to be sent by the Managers on or about 29 May 2019. Allocated subscription shares will be delivered on or about 3 June 2019 on a DVP (Delivery versus Payment) basis. Subscribers will receive existing and unencumbered shares in the Company already listed on the OSE pursuant to a share lending agreement, and the shares will be tradeable upon allocation. The Private Placement is not subject to receiving applications for or the issuance of a minimum number of Offer Shares, and the Private Placement could therefore be completed at a lower amount than USD 15 million. The Company and the Managers reserve the right, at any time and for any reason, to cancel and/or modify the terms of the Private Placement. Subject to completion of the Private Placement, the Company will consider to carry out a subsequent repair offering directed at its existing shareholders as of close of trading 28 May 2019, as subsequently recorded in the VPS on 31 May 2019, who were not allocated shares in the Private Placement and who are not resident in a jurisdiction where such offering would be unlawful or, for jurisdictions other than Norway, would require any prospectus, filing, registration or similar action. For further information, please contact Lars Christian Skarsgard, Belships CEO, phone +47 977 68 061 or e-mail LCS@belships.no. This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5 -12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. Important information: The release is not for publication or distribution, in whole or in part directly or indirectly, in or into Australia, Canada, Japan or the United States (including its territories and possessions, any state of the United States and the District of Columbia). This release is an announcement issued pursuant to legal information obligations, and is subject of the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. It is issued for information purposes only, and does not constitute or form part of any offer or solicitation to purchase or subscribe for securities, in the United States or in any other jurisdiction. The securities mentioned herein have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "US Securities Act"). The securities may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the US Securities Act. The Company does not intend to register any portion of the offering of the securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of the securities in the United States. Copies of this announcement are not being made and may not be distributed or sent into Australia, Canada, Japan or the United States. The issue, subscription or purchase of shares in the Company is subject to specific legal or regulatory restrictions in certain jurisdictions. Neither the Company nor the Managers assume any responsibility in the event there is a violation by any person of such restrictions. The distribution of this release may in certain jurisdictions be restricted by law. Persons into whose possession this release comes should inform themselves about and observe any such restrictions. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. The Managers are acting for the Company and no one else in connection with the Private Placement and will not be responsible to anyone other than the Company providing the protections afforded to their respective clients or for providing advice in relation to the Private Placement and/or any other matter referred to in this release. Forward-looking statements: This release and any materials distributed in connection with this release may contain certain forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they reflect the Company's current expectations and assumptions as to future events and circumstances that may not prove accurate. A number of material factors could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. QUINCY, Mass., May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today Stop & Shop announced a 12-week summer pilot with DogSpot , a pet-tech startup on a mission to make the world dog-friendlier. Stop & Shops Port Washington store, located at 65 Shore Rd. in Port Washington, NY, will be home to DogSpots app-connected dog houses, which are lockable, self-sanitizing, camera-monitored, and temp-controlled. The houses provide dogs with a safe and comfortable place to wait while their owners grocery shop, giving Stop & Shop customers an alternative to the practice of leaving dogs unattended in cars which can be particularly dangerous during the hot summer months. We know our customers love their pets, so were excited to introduce this innovation to our Long Island shoppers as another way to help make their grocery shopping easier and more convenient, said Stop & Shop Senior Vice President Bob Yager. Depending on the success of this initial pilot, we may roll out more DogSpots in other communities that we serve across the Northeast. Stop & Shop customers can download the DogSpot app, available for both iPhone and Android users, and in less than 90 seconds, they will be able to use or reserve a DogSpot house. Each DogSpot features heating and air conditioning as well as ultraviolet lights to disinfect the interior between uses. Pet parents can even check in on their pups as theyre shopping the aisles through a puppy cam on the app. Brooklyn-based DogSpot has 60+ dog houses across 14 states and counting, largely located at retailers where pets are not allowed inside due to heath regulations. The Port Washington Stop & Shop will also be the first location in the country to offer DogSpots newest model. Located directly outside the store, the updated models are roomier, fitting up to a 120lb dog. Additionally, they will feature a touch-screen for immediate use or to make future reservations. DogSpot will launch at the Port Washington Stop & Shop on June 6th. A kick-off event will take place on Saturday, June 8th. Local dog owners can visit the Port Washington Stop & Shop for puppuccinos, photo opps and free demos for furry friends. About Stop & Shop A neighborhood grocer for more than 100 years, todays Stop & Shop is refreshed, reenergized and inspired, delivering new conveniences for customers. Committed to helping its communities enjoy better food and better lives, Stop & Shop has a longstanding history of giving back to the neighborhoods it serves with a focus on fighting hunger and helping children to enjoy a healthy lifestyle. The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company LLC is an Ahold Delhaize USA Company and employs nearly 60,000 associates and operates over 400 stores throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York and New Jersey. To learn more about Stop & Shop, visit stopandshop.com. ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MAF received an urgent request this spring to fly over 5 tonnes of material to support the vaccination campaign to prevent the spread of measles in Madagascar. MAF flights are able to reach remote communities in the country, which are notably difficult to access, especially during the rainy season when many roads become impassable. With the tropical climate, and cargo that needs to be kept below 8 degrees Celsius, flights are key to getting the vaccines into remote areas while they are kept cold enough to remain viable. In preparation for the flights, the MAF hangar in Antananarivo was packed with vaccinations, syringes, cotton, vaccination cards and everything needed to be able to complete the vaccination campaign in the isolated villages. The vaccines were flown in boxes packed with enough dry ice to keep them cold for approximately four days, as many of these locations do not have electric refrigeration. MAF staff member, Charlotte Pedersen, watched the early morning activity as the vaccines and supplies were loaded into every corner of the MAF Cessna Caravan. She accompanied one consignment of vaccines to their destinations at Morafenobe and Ambatomainty, one hour's flight by plane that would be extremely difficult to travel by road at this time of year. It is still the rainy season and everywhere I look, I see green," Charlotte reports, noting the climate and difficult terrain beneath her that the plane is helping to overcome, In the dry season, the 1-hour flight could be replaced by 14-15 hours on the local bus. But, in the rainy season like now, it would be more like 2-3 days. Muddy roads are a big problem here in Madagascar. MAF pilot Ryan Unger describes loading the aircraft for maximum efficiency, The Cessna Caravan has a fair bit of space usually you run out of payload before you run out of volume. It was a different story with this cargo, and we became proficient at putting together the 3D puzzle of loading the airplane to maximize the space. We would load the night before for an early start the next day, be back around noon to load for the second rotation of the day, and on the return load again for the following day. In the end we delivered supplies for the vaccination of about 350,000 children. More than 100,000 cases of measles have been registered in Madagascar since the outbreak began in September 2018 and hundreds of children have died. The newspapers report many tragic stories of whole families, who have never been vaccinated, losing several children to the disease. The disease spread quickly across the country after the first case was reported in a poverty-stricken area of Antananarivo. The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations Childrens Fund, (UNICEF), estimate that only 58% of the population had been vaccinated against measles when the outbreak began, a level of coverage insufficient to prevent a severe outbreak. A vaccination campaign began in collaboration with several Non-Governmental Organizations and the government to reach 7 million children. Under the campaign, every child between the age of 9 months and 9 years of age will be offered the vaccine free of charge. It is hoped that up to 94% of Madagascans will be covered by the current campaign, a level that is vital to maintain if future outbreaks are to be prevented. Mission Aviation Fellowship (www.mafc.org) operates a fleet of some 130 airplanes worldwide. Since 1945, MAF has enabled the work of churches, relief organizations, missionaries, medical teams, development agencies, and others working to make life better for those who live in the most isolated parts of the world. In times of crisis, MAFs disaster response team can mobilize quickly so that aid gets to those in need. Most recently, MAF has responded to Cyclone Idai and Kenneth in Mozambique. MAFs Canadian headquarters is located in Guelph, Ontario. English French SAINT-MICHEL-DES-SAINTS, Quebec, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nouveau Monde Graphite Inc. ( Nouveau Monde ) (TSX VENTURE: NOU) is pleased to announce the following strategic additions to its Matawinie project team and Board of Directors. MARTINE PARADIS, VICE-PRESIDENT CHIEF ENGINEER INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENT Ms. Martine Paradis is a geological engineer with eighteen years of experience in mining and engineering. She holds a masters degree in Earth Science on mine site reclamation and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Ms. Paradis consulted as an engineer, project manager and manager on various projects related to geochemistry, hydrogeology, climatic change, field work, mine reclamation techniques, tailings and water management and engineering, and mine project development. She has also worked for the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources for the reclamation of abandoned mine sites, follow-up of active mine sites and several ministerial dossiers. At Nouveau Monde she will oversee engineering and planning for civil and environmental infrastructure projects. ALAIN DORVAL, VICE-PRESIDENT - CHIEF ENGINEER METALLURGY AND PROCESS Mr. Alain Dorval is a respected and established mining engineer with over 35 years of experience specializing in mineral processing. Throughout his career, he has worked in the fields of engineering, industrial operations and research. He has collaborated to develop several mineral processing techniques for a wide variety of mineral types. He has carried out several evaluation audits of ore processing plants for expansion projects and for investors. Mr. Dorval has also participated in numerous studies as a senior process engineer, expert engineer and qualified person (QP) NI 43-101 for various projects located in Australia, Canada, Chile, the United States, French Guiana, Guyana, India, Cote d'Ivoire, Mauritania, Mexico, Suriname and Venezuela. A respected mineral processing professional, he constantly collaborates with internationally renowned equipment suppliers and research laboratories on the development of mineralurgical processes. His experience as an expert in mineral processing and in engineering team management will allow Nouveau Monde Graphite to efficiently optimize the demonstration plant and the detailed engineering of the future commercial plant. In addition, he will take an active role in future product development at Nouveau Monde. Eric Desaulniers, President and CEO of Nouveau Monde commented, I am delighted to welcome such accomplished technical professionals to our team. Their presence significantly strengths our technical capability and our ability to execute and deliver the Matawinie project. ARNE H. FRANDSEN, DIRECTOR OF THE BOARD Mr. Arne H. Frandsen is the Co-Managing Partner of The Pallinghurst Group. Mr. Frandsen has a LL.B and Masters in Law from Copenhagen University. He has over 10 years of investment banking experience with Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan, providing strategic advice and structuring mergers and acquisitions, as well as corporate finance transactions for clients in 30 different countries. In 2005, Mr. Frandsen left investment banking in order to become the Chief Executive Officer of Incwala Resources, one of South Africas leading black economic empowerment mining companies. Mr. Frandsen was one of the founders of The Pallinghurst Group in 2006 and has been instrumental in the groups development. In addition, he is the Chairman of Sedibelo Platinum Mines. CHRISTOPHER SHEPHERD, DIRECTOR OF THE BOARD At The Pallinghurst Group for the last 10 years, Mr. Christopher Shepherd is a Managing Director and the Head of Corporate Finance of The Pallinghurst Group, spearheading the execution team for most of its investments. He is a Chartered Accountant (CA) since 2002 and holds a bachelor's degree in Applied Finance and Commerce from Macquarie University, in Sydney, Australia. Mr. Shepherd has 20 years of experience in private equity, investment banking and accounting, with a focus on the natural resources industry and mining operations. Desaulniers continued, I am very pleased to welcome Arne Frandsen and Christopher Shepherd to our Board of Directors. Both gentlemen bring extensive capital markets expertise with a focus on mining. Their unique talents and perspectives are accretive to that of our existing board members and I look forward to working with my expanded Board of Directors as we collaborate on the strategies to bring the Matawinie project to production. The Board of Directors has granted a total of 1,125,000 stock options to executive officers. These stock options are granted pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Corporation's stock option plan. Each stock option entitles the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $ 0.235 per common share for a period of 5 years from the date of grant. ABOUT NOUVEAU MONDE GRAPHITE In 2015, Nouveau Monde Graphite discovered a major and high-quality graphite deposit on its Matawinie property, located in Saint-Michel-des-Saints, 150 km North of Montreal. This discovery led to the completion of a Feasibility Study, which revealed strong economics with projected graphite concentrate production level of 100,000 tonnes per year over a 26-year period. Nouveau Monde will operate its demonstration plant until 2020. During this period, the Corporation expects the production of 2,000 tonnes of concentrated flake graphite to qualify its products with North American and international clients. Moreover, in a vertical integration and sustainable development perspective, Nouveau Monde is planning the establishment of a large-scale graphite secondary transformation facility, catering the needs of the booming lithium-ion battery and expandable graphite markets. With over 60 years of experience in the world of graphite, Nouveau Mondes team develops its project with the utmost respect of neighbouring communities, while favoring a minimal ecological footprint. Nouveau Mondes project is privileged by direct access to the workforce and infrastructure needed to operate its mining project, and it can also rely on an abundant, affordable and renewable source of hydroelectricity. For more information : Eric Desaulniers Tristan Menard President & CEO Director, Capital Markets Tel: +1 (819) 923-0333 Tel: +1 (514) 296-6339 www.nouveaumonde.ca Subscribe to our newsfeed: http://nouveaumonde.ca/en/support-nmg/ 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. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release including, but not limited to generally, or the About Corporation Graphite paragraph which essentially describe the Corporations outlook and objectives, constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements within the meaning of certain securities laws, and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the time of this press release. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Corporation as of the time of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. These estimates and assumptions may prove to be incorrect. Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can directly or indirectly affect, and could cause, actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. 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. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about managements expectations and plans relating to the future. The Corporation disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Monument Mining Limited (TSX-V: MMY and FSE: D7Q1) (Monument or the Company) is pleased to provide updates at the Selinsing Gold Mine, 100% owned by Monument, including: current oxide production, tailings storage facility development, preparations for the Selinsing Sulphide Project, and exploration. Current Oxide Production Monuments current gold production is from its remaining oxide gold ore inventory, including stockpiled super low-grade oxide ore, old tailing materials, oxide ore from Buffalo Reef and transition ore from Pit 5/6 at Selinsing. Preparation is ongoing for a trial mining program at Peranggih Gold Prospect. It is aimed to sustain the current oxide production before the sulphide production commences. The Selinsing Gold Mine started oxide gold production in September 2009 and the Mines cash flow has supported strong balance sheet growth with gold and copper-iron portfolios in multiple jurisdictions and development at Murchison Project in Western Australia. At Selinsing the reserves and resources have now been fully replaced with a six-year life of mine according to the feasibility study NI 43-101 Technical Report titled Selinsing Gold Sulphide Project - NI 43-101 Technical Report issued by Snowden Mining Industry Consultants Pty Ltd. on January 31 2019 and filed on Sedar. The economic viability of the project described in the Feasibility Study is primarily driven by adding flotation and BIOX processes to the current Selinsing Gold Processing Plant to treat sulphide ore. Tailings Storage Facility Development Included in the Selinsing Sulphide Projects capital expenditure projection is development of the tailings storage facility (TSF). The construction of the TSF is comprised of three separate embankments, the Main Embankment, the Saddle Dam and the South Dam with a total length of 1,500m and a height of 33m. SRK Consulting submitted a detailed design of the TSF expansion to Monument for review, including the basis of design, spring water management, embankment design, stability assessment and surface water management. Based on this, the Company has carried out the first phase of TSF upgrade work at the main embankment, to raise the wall level from 531.0mRL to 533.3mRL allowing for 2.3m beach freeboard. This will provide an additional tailing capacity up to June 2020 to support gold production at the current oxide processing plant. The TSF upgrade work to date has completed construction of the new spring water management system and 80% completion of construction on the TSF main embankment with installation of various seepage channels, excavating the stream diversion, removal of unwanted materials and backfilling. The entire work is expected to be completed in July 2019. The next embankment raise will be required once the sulphide project is initiated and it is estimated the embankment will need to be raised to 540mRL for the life of sulphide plant production. Photos of the TSF development construction can be found in the photo gallery at the Companys corporate website at www.monumentmining.com. Preparations for Sulphide Gold Production Selinsing sulphide gold production is Monuments top priority. The Company continues preparation based on the Execution Plan to commence construction subject to project funding, including documentation, procurement, Bioleaching training through a pilot plant, and laying the ground work for the transition from oxide gold production to sulphide gold production at Selinsing. Work proceeded on the technical and financial evaluation of processing equipment proposals. Site meetings were held with potential equipment vendors and proposals were received for extending the scope of supply to include ancillary equipment. Equipment specifications were prepared for the proposed pilot plant including the crusher, ball mill, pumps, cyclone, rougher and cleaner flotation cells, and reagent mixing and dosing pumps. Requests for quotations were prepared for distribution to suitable local equipment vendors and fabricators. Conversion of the existing Intec pilot plant to use as the bioleach test facility was initiated. The project team continues to optimize costs including expected maintenance and reagent consumptions to lower operating cost estimates and source local equipment to lower capital cost estimates. Further bioleach batch amenability tests (BAT) were conducted by the Selinsing R&D team using locally adapted bacteria. The tests achieved up to 98% oxidation on samples of Buffalo Reef concentrates with up to 97% gold leachability from the resulting bio-oxidation residues. The bioleach tests were conducted as training exercises for metallurgists and technicians to have better understanding of how the bioleach process works and essential parameters to be monitored. Staff training included members of the Sulphide Project team participating in the bi-annual Outotec BIOX user Conference held in the Philippines. Two days of presentations were heard with delegates representing BIOX operations and projects in Australia, South Africa, Kazakhstan, Russia, Philippines, Zimbabwe and Malaysia. A site visit was also made to FCF Minerals Runruno BIOX Gold operation. Exploration Near Mine Exploration : At the Selinsing and Buffalo Reef deposits, sulphide mineralization is still open down dip, down plunge and along strike. Monument plans to follow-up with drilling programs at the Selinsing and Buffalo Reef deposits focused on adding resources and defining preferentially sulphide mineralization at depth below and around the existing pits within gap zones in between the known resources that contain little drill hole information, through extension drilling for Buffalo Reef, and to investigate underground opportunities with deep drilling at Selinsing Pits and extensions to the south. A diamond drilling program was initiated at the Selinsing Pit IV west wall and 14 holes were drilled for a total of 681m out of a proposed 1,000m has been completed and awaiting assay results. Metallurgical Drilling : A metallurgical RC drilling program has been initiated for collecting samples at Pit 5/6 to further test recoverability of transitional ore in parallel with mining production in this area. The transitional ore mined shows visible gold with higher grade than expected in certain areas. Regional Exploration: As a part of the Selinsing regional exploration program, soil sampling continues and focused on the prioritized Peranggih/Panau area, initially at the Panau South target, which was completed with 202 primary samples collected and 24 samples were collected at Panau North. The access road to Panau East was surveyed, repaired, and sampling was continued with 31 samples collected. All samples are being sent to an independent laboratory in Western Australia for analysis. Regional exploration is targeting larger strategic development areas surrounding the Selinsing Gold Mine, aimed to test regional resource potential. The current target areas have been selected for sampling and assaying including additional sections at Peranggih and Panau. The soil sampling results could lead to identifying further regional drilling targets. About Monument Monument Mining Limited (TSX-V: MMY, FSE: D7Q1) is an established Canadian gold producer that owns and operates the Selinsing Gold Mine in Malaysia. Its experienced management team is committed to growth and is advancing several exploration and development projects including the Mengapur Copper-Iron Project, in Pahang State of Malaysia, and the Murchison Gold Projects comprising Burnakura, Gabanintha and Tuckanarra in the Murchison area of Western Australia. The Company employs approximately 195 people in both regions and is committed to the highest standards of environmental management, social responsibility, and health and safety for its employees and neighboring communities. Cathy Zhai, President and CEO Monument Mining Limited Suite 1580 -1100 Melville Street Vancouver, BC V6E 4A6 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION visit the company web site at www.monumentmining.com or contact: Richard Cushing, MMY Vancouver T: +1-604-638-1661 x102 rcushing@monumentmining.com Wolfgang Seybold, Axino GmbH T: +49 711-82 09 7211 wolfgang.seybold@axino.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." Forward-Looking Statement This news release includes statements containing forward-looking information about Monument, its business and future plans (forward-looking statements). Forward-looking statements are statements that involve expectations, plans, objectives or future events that are not historical facts and include the Companys plans with respect to its mineral projects and the timing and results of proposed programs and events referred to in this news release. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". The forward-looking statements in this news release are subject to various risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks and certain other factors include, without limitation: risks related to general business, economic, competitive, geopolitical and social uncertainties; uncertainties regarding the results of current exploration activities; uncertainties in the progress and timing of development activities; foreign operations risks; other risks inherent in the mining industry and other risks described in the management discussion and analysis of the Company and the technical reports on the Companys projects, all of which are available under the profile of the Company on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Material factors and assumptions used to develop forward-looking statements in this news release include: expectations regarding the estimated cash cost per ounce of gold production and the estimated cash flows which may be generated from the operations, general economic factors and other factors that may be beyond the control of Monument; assumptions and expectations regarding the results of exploration on the Companys projects; assumptions regarding the future price of gold of other minerals; the timing and amount of estimated future production; the expected timing and results of development and exploration activities; costs of future activities; capital and operating expenditures; success of exploration activities; mining or processing issues; exchange rates; and all of the factors and assumptions described in the management discussion and analysis of the Company and the technical reports on the Companys projects, all of which are available under the profile of the Company on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 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. 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. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. The president of the Virginia chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference urges deeper investigation into the racist photos next to Gov. Ralph Northams medical school yearbook picture from decades ago. Also, Northams continued presence as governor helps perpetuate racism and embolden hate groups in the state, said the Rev. William Avon Keen. The Virginia arm of the national African-American civil rights group plans to tour the state to talk to community leaders following an investigation that was unable to determine whether Northam was in the 1984 photo of a man dressed in blackface standing next to someone in a KKK hood and robe. We need to have some serious dialogue across the state, Keen, who also leads the Danville SCLC chapter, said during a news conference at Mount Sinai Glorious Church on Monday morning. A law firm, McGuireWoods, conducted the investigation on behalf of Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk. The firm interviewed 1984 yearbook staffers and alumni of the school and released a 32-page report. The results, released last week, were inconclusive. We believe there should be a better investigation into the matter, said Scott McKenzie, vice president of the Danville SCLC chapter. Following the report, Northam released a statement denying that it was him in the racist and offensive photo that appears under my name in the 1984 Eastern Virginia Medical School yearbook. When the photo surfaced in early February, Northam initially apologized but a day later said he didnt believe he was in the photo. In his statement last week, Northam apologized for his original response. I know and understand the events of early February and my response to them have caused hurt for many Virginians and for that, I am sorry, Northam stated. I felt it was important to take accountability for the photos presence on my page, but rather than providing clarity, I instead deepened pain and confusion. The governor, Keen argued, should have resigned or at least temporarily stepped down during any investigation into the photo. He has a moral voice to the whole state, he said. Northam has visited with local leaders in Virginia including a March meeting in Danville to discuss how to use the power of his office to address inequities, he said in his statement. His Danville visit, at Bibleway Cathedral, was closed to the press and shrouded in secrecy, but the Danville Register & Bee did obtain access to the meeting with community leaders. Keen said his group will go where the governor went and that they have been keeping an eye on those meetings. Marvin Warner, SCLC member and president of the Danville Ministerial Alliance, said the group will be vocal as it tours the state. Were going to be the voice crying in the wilderness, Warner said. There has to be a come-to-Jesus moment. John Crane reports for the Danville Register & Bee. Contact him at jcrane@registerbee.com or (434) 791-7987. 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. In Taiwan, a law legalizing same-sex marriage went into effect last week. The bill was the first in Asia, and was approved by Taiwans legislature on Friday, May 17, which was also the annual International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (or IDAHOT). This came two years after Taiwans constitutional court struck down their Civil Codes definition of marriage as only between a man and a woman, ruling that same-sex marriage was legal and setting a deadline for the legislature to amend the law within two years. The law passed with one week to spare. Frank Chen, an executive director in Goldman Sachs' Investment Banking Division, and Andy Tsai, an associate in the Securities Division, have been active in the broader marriage equality effort in the past two years. Within the firm's Taipei office, they led the petition drive for the marriage equality referendum, and more than 80 percent of their colleagues signed up within two days. Frank focused on raising awareness of the campaign and the issues at stake for colleagues both in the Taipei office and globally. That led to donations from colleagues across a number of the firms offices globally to local NGO Equal Love, which focuses on educating the public about the marriage equality issue and clarifying misinformation and misunderstandings. In his role within Investment Banking, Frank has found that clients who are supportive of marriage equality have shared that they admire the firms efforts on this front, and more recently, he credits being openly LGBT with helping him secure a mandate from a company that hasnt traditionally done business with Goldman Sachs. I am able to connect with likeminded clients beyond just transactions, and build a lasting relationship being true to yourself is good for business, and it has actually helped me become more commercial, Frank said. I have received strong support from the firm and my managers since coming out at work. More recently, Andy has also been in discussion with the US-based National LGBT Chamber of Commerce to establish an Asian chapter. As part of the working group, he has been in contact with other potential corporate members, with the ultimate goal of introducing a third-party certification body to verify that eligible businesses are majority-owned by LGBT individuals. Andy has also been more broadly focused on working with other multinational financial services firms in Taiwan and strengthening the ties among LGBT-friendly corporations, including by petitioning other banks to show their support for the marriage equality cause. The firms Taipei office has also been a key presence in the local LGBT pride parade, which is the largest in Asia, for the past decade. More than 80 percent of the firms Taipei employees and their family and friends join each year. In Asia, Pride month is recognized every November. This year, there will be one more thing to celebrate. Toronto, May 28, 2019 - BacTech Environmental Corp. ("BacTech or the Company") (CSE:BAC, US-OTC:BCCEF) today announced that it has received a letter of support from the Minister of Environment for Ecuador. The letter, which is attached as an English translation, arose as a result of a visit to the Ministry in January of this year. The original Spanish letter will be posted on the Company's website. At the meeting, BacTech revealed its plans to target areas of high arsenic mineralization associated with gold mining in Ecuador. BacTech's proprietary bioleach technology produces a benign ferric arsenate from the active arsenic in the concentrates and tailings. At present, high arsenic concentrates produced in Ecuador are sold to the Asian market under severe financial penalty. BacTech is investigating the construction of an in-country bioleach circuit to offer better prices than currently being paid to the miners as well as engaging the local population through a cleaner environment and employment opportunities. "We are pleased to have the support of the Ecuadorian Ministry of Environment. In fact, we have had very positive support from other Ministries that we have engaged over the past year as well. The government can see the benefits of mining, but they are determined to only allow it under very strict environmental standards. We feel that the social impact on mining in certain areas of Ecuador will be enhanced through the use of bioleaching as a processor of concentrates. Again, we would like to thank Minister Mata for his support," said Ross Orr, President and CEO of BacTech. Quito, May 07, 2019 Ross Orr BacTech Environmental Corp. President In relation to the project of the environmental remediation based on your technology of recovery of mining waste materials using organic bacteria presented to the Ministry of Environment in the past days, I reiterate the intention of this portfolio of State to support all initiatives, public or private, that complies with our policy of improvement in the environment, as well as environmental friendly technology. As is public knowledge, the country carries out a policy of openness and support to all investment, national or foreign, that contributes to the development of the country, framed in compliance with the regulations in force. The project presented by you is of great interest because of the benefits of the project, which would seem to help achieve the goals of sustainable and environmentally friendly development in an area of great national interest. Therefore, we express our interest in your project, being sure that it will be developed, if applicable, with the greatest adherence to the legislation and interest of Ecuador. Attentively, Marcelo Mata Ministry of Environment Company Overview The Telamayu project involves the environmental remediation of the "Antiguo" tailings with an option on the larger "Nuevo" tailings, both situated at the Telamayu Mill site near the town of Atocha in the Department of Potosi, Bolivia. A second project entails BacTech investigating the use of bioleach processing to treat historic arsenic tailings and arsenopyrite concentrates produced in the Ponce Enriquez area of Southern Ecuador. Finally, BacTech has recently agreed to participate with a group looking to reprocess the Arsenic Stockpile in Snow Lake, Manitoba. For further information contact: Ross Orr, President & CEO, BacTech Environmental Corporation/ 416-813-0303 ext. 222, Cell 416-346-5529 and Email: borr@bactechgreen.com Robin Cook, Investor Relations: 416-809-1738, Email: robin@frontiermcg.com Follow us on: Facebook http://www.facebook.com/BacTechGreen Twitter:http://twitter.com/BacTechGreen LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/company/1613873 Vimeo http://vimeo.com/bactechgreen YouTube http://www.youtube.com/user/bactechgreen Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information", which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to future tailings sites, sampling or other investigations of tailing sites, the Company's ability to make use of infrastructure around tailings sites or operating performance of the Company and its projects. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified using words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or believes" or variations (including negative 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 statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. 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 because 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. Shares outstanding: 96,903,756 The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or the accuracy of the contents of this release. Copyright (c) 2019 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. VANCOUVER, May 28, 2019 - Monument Mining Ltd. (TSX-V: MMY and FSE: D7Q1) (Monument or the Company) is pleased to provide updates at the Selinsing Gold Mine, 100% owned by Monument, including: current oxide production, tailings storage facility development, preparations for the Selinsing Sulphide Project, and exploration. Current Oxide Production Monuments current gold production is from its remaining oxide gold ore inventory, including stockpiled super low-grade oxide ore, old tailing materials, oxide ore from Buffalo Reef and transition ore from Pit 5/6 at Selinsing. Preparation is ongoing for a trial mining program at Peranggih Gold Prospect. It is aimed to sustain the current oxide production before the sulphide production commences. The Selinsing Gold Mine started oxide gold production in September 2009 and the Mines cash flow has supported strong balance sheet growth with gold and copper-iron portfolios in multiple jurisdictions and development at Murchison Project in Western Australia. At Selinsing the reserves and resources have now been fully replaced with a six-year life of mine according to the feasibility study NI 43-101 Technical Report titled Selinsing Gold Sulphide Project - NI 43-101 Technical Report issued by Snowden Mining Industry Consultants Pty Ltd. on January 31 2019 and filed on Sedar. The economic viability of the project described in the Feasibility Study is primarily driven by adding flotation and BIOX processes to the current Selinsing Gold Processing Plant to treat sulphide ore. Tailings Storage Facility Development Included in the Selinsing Sulphide Projects capital expenditure projection is development of the tailings storage facility (TSF). The construction of the TSF is comprised of three separate embankments, the Main Embankment, the Saddle Dam and the South Dam with a total length of 1,500m and a height of 33m. SRK Consulting submitted a detailed design of the TSF expansion to Monument for review, including the basis of design, spring water management, embankment design, stability assessment and surface water management. Based on this, the Company has carried out the first phase of TSF upgrade work at the main embankment, to raise the wall level from 531.0mRL to 533.3mRL allowing for 2.3m beach freeboard. This will provide an additional tailing capacity up to June 2020 to support gold production at the current oxide processing plant. The TSF upgrade work to date has completed construction of the new spring water management system and 80% completion of construction on the TSF main embankment with installation of various seepage channels, excavating the stream diversion, removal of unwanted materials and backfilling. The entire work is expected to be completed in July 2019. The next embankment raise will be required once the sulphide project is initiated and it is estimated the embankment will need to be raised to 540mRL for the life of sulphide plant production. Photos of the TSF development construction can be found in the photo gallery at the Companys corporate website at www.monumentmining.com. Preparations for Sulphide Gold Production Selinsing sulphide gold production is Monuments top priority. The Company continues preparation based on the Execution Plan to commence construction subject to project funding, including documentation, procurement, Bioleaching training through a pilot plant, and laying the ground work for the transition from oxide gold production to sulphide gold production at Selinsing. Work proceeded on the technical and financial evaluation of processing equipment proposals. Site meetings were held with potential equipment vendors and proposals were received for extending the scope of supply to include ancillary equipment. Equipment specifications were prepared for the proposed pilot plant including the crusher, ball mill, pumps, cyclone, rougher and cleaner flotation cells, and reagent mixing and dosing pumps. Requests for quotations were prepared for distribution to suitable local equipment vendors and fabricators. Conversion of the existing Intec pilot plant to use as the bioleach test facility was initiated. The project team continues to optimize costs including expected maintenance and reagent consumptions to lower operating cost estimates and source local equipment to lower capital cost estimates. Further bioleach batch amenability tests (BAT) were conducted by the Selinsing R&D team using locally adapted bacteria. The tests achieved up to 98% oxidation on samples of Buffalo Reef concentrates with up to 97% gold leachability from the resulting bio-oxidation residues. The bioleach tests were conducted as training exercises for metallurgists and technicians to have better understanding of how the bioleach process works and essential parameters to be monitored. Staff training included members of the Sulphide Project team participating in the bi-annual Outotec BIOX user Conference held in the Philippines. Two days of presentations were heard with delegates representing BIOX operations and projects in Australia, South Africa, Kazakhstan, Russia, Philippines, Zimbabwe and Malaysia. A site visit was also made to FCF Minerals Runruno BIOX Gold operation. Exploration Near Mine Exploration: At the Selinsing and Buffalo Reef deposits, sulphide mineralization is still open down dip, down plunge and along strike. Monument plans to follow-up with drilling programs at the Selinsing and Buffalo Reef deposits focused on adding resources and defining preferentially sulphide mineralization at depth below and around the existing pits within gap zones in between the known resources that contain little drill hole information, through extension drilling for Buffalo Reef, and to investigate underground opportunities with deep drilling at Selinsing Pits and extensions to the south. A diamond drilling program was initiated at the Selinsing Pit IV west wall and 14 holes were drilled for a total of 681m out of a proposed 1,000m has been completed and awaiting assay results. Metallurgical Drilling: A metallurgical RC drilling program has been initiated for collecting samples at Pit 5/6 to further test recoverability of transitional ore in parallel with mining production in this area. The transitional ore mined shows visible gold with higher grade than expected in certain areas. Regional Exploration: As a part of the Selinsing regional exploration program, soil sampling continues and focused on the prioritized Peranggih/Panau area, initially at the Panau South target, which was completed with 202 primary samples collected and 24 samples were collected at Panau North. The access road to Panau East was surveyed, repaired, and sampling was continued with 31 samples collected. All samples are being sent to an independent laboratory in Western Australia for analysis. Regional exploration is targeting larger strategic development areas surrounding the Selinsing Gold Mine, aimed to test regional resource potential. The current target areas have been selected for sampling and assaying including additional sections at Peranggih and Panau. The soil sampling results could lead to identifying further regional drilling targets. About Monument Monument Mining Ltd. (TSX-V: MMY, FSE: D7Q1) is an established Canadian gold producer that owns and operates the Selinsing Gold Mine in Malaysia. Its experienced management team is committed to growth and is advancing several exploration and development projects including the Mengapur Copper-Iron Project, in Pahang State of Malaysia, and the Murchison Gold Projects comprising Burnakura, Gabanintha and Tuckanarra in the Murchison area of Western Australia. The Company employs approximately 195 people in both regions and is committed to the highest standards of environmental management, social responsibility, and health and safety for its employees and neighboring communities. Cathy Zhai, President and CEO Monument Mining Ltd. Suite 1580 -1100 Melville Street Vancouver, BC V6E 4A6 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION visit the company web site at www.monumentmining.com or contact: Richard Cushing, MMY Vancouver T: +1-604-638-1661 x102 rcushing@monumentmining.com Wolfgang Seybold, Axino GmbH T: +49 711-82 09 7211 wolfgang.seybold@axino.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." Forward-Looking Statement This news release includes statements containing forward-looking information about Monument, its business and future plans (forward-looking statements). Forward-looking statements are statements that involve expectations, plans, objectives or future events that are not historical facts and include the Companys plans with respect to its mineral projects and the timing and results of proposed programs and events referred to in this news release. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". The forward-looking statements in this news release are subject to various risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks and certain other factors include, without limitation: risks related to general business, economic, competitive, geopolitical and social uncertainties; uncertainties regarding the results of current exploration activities; uncertainties in the progress and timing of development activities; foreign operations risks; other risks inherent in the mining industry and other risks described in the management discussion and analysis of the Company and the technical reports on the Companys projects, all of which are available under the profile of the Company on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Material factors and assumptions used to develop forward-looking statements in this news release include: expectations regarding the estimated cash cost per ounce of gold production and the estimated cash flows which may be generated from the operations, general economic factors and other factors that may be beyond the control of Monument; assumptions and expectations regarding the results of exploration on the Companys projects; assumptions regarding the future price of gold of other minerals; the timing and amount of estimated future production; the expected timing and results of development and exploration activities; costs of future activities; capital and operating expenditures; success of exploration activities; mining or processing issues; exchange rates; and all of the factors and assumptions described in the management discussion and analysis of the Company and the technical reports on the Companys projects, all of which are available under the profile of the Company on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 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. 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. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. 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. The attorneys general of 51 states and territories on Friday asked Education Secretary Betsy DeVos to stop requiring that disabled veterans fill out paperwork to become eligible for federal student loan forgiveness. Instead, they want DeVos to exercise her power to automatically cancel the debt.Veterans who are totally and permanently disabled are entitled under federal law to have their student loans canceled, but the Trump administrations current process for doing so is inadequate, the bipartisan group of attorneys general wrote in a letter to DeVos.The Education Department continues to require eligible veterans to take affirmative steps to secure the loan forgiveness that is their statutory right, the attorneys general wrote. They added that such requirements may prove insurmountable obstacles to relief for many eligible veterans due to the severe nature of their disabilities.The letter was signed by the attorneys general of 47 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands. The only attorneys general who didn't sign represent Alabama, Arizona and Texas. Gov. Mike Parson on Friday signed a sweeping piece of anti-abortion legislation that critics and others argue will subject women to felony charges if they perform their own abortions.Parson's signature comes less than 24 hours after GOP mega donor David Humphreys urged the governor to veto the measure, which bans most abortions at eight weeks of pregnancy. Critics say the legislation -- which includes no rape or incest exemptions -- is too extreme.The eight-week ban will take effect in late August."By signing this bill today, we are sending a strong signal to the nation that, in Missouri, we stand for life, protect women's health, and advocate for the unborn," Parson said in a statement. "All life has value and is worth protecting."Democrats and abortion-rights groups blasted the decision."Missouri law now requires people to remain pregnant against their will, treating them as little more than fetal incubators with no rights or role in the decision, even in cases of rape and incest," House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, D-Springfield, said in a statement."We cannot long claim to be a free society when the heavy hand of government is used to crush individual liberty and subject us to the mandates of official state doctrine," she said.Instead of holding a public ceremony, Parson signed the legislation in private Friday morning, an unusual move for a governor who has emphasized transparency during his tenure. He did not notify the public that he intended to sign the bill this week.Parson's secretive predecessor, former Gov. Eric Greitens, also held a private ceremony in 2017 where he signed legislation further regulating abortion in the state.Parson's spokesman Steele Shippy said Parson had intended to hold public signing events this week in Springfield and Cape Girardeau, but changed his mind after tornadoes and flooding tore up areas of the state.Parson's signature comes as much of the state's attention has turned toward natural disaster recovery.Before a tornado swept through Jefferson City Wednesday night, abortion-rights activists had mobilized in an effort to convince Parson, a Republican, to veto the measure.The 2019 legislation bans abortions in the state of Missouri at eight weeks of pregnancy, except in medical emergencies. There are no exceptions for rape, incest or human trafficking.If the Supreme Court overturns Roe vs. Wade, "in whole or in part," the legislation states that all abortions would be made illegal except in cases of a medical emergency.The legislation also bans a woman from aborting a fetus that might have Down syndrome. It also requires both parents or guardians to be notified before minors can get an abortion, in most cases.A Jefferson City attorney who analyzed the bill for the Post-Dispatch said it is possible that a woman could be charged with a Class B felony for performing or inducing her own abortion. A Class B felony carries a sentence of between five and 15 years in prison."My opinion is that there are circumstances in which it is at least possible that a woman could be charged with a felony," said Lowell Pearson, a Husch Blackwell managing partner who has represented a number of Republican clients, including U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri.The bill says: "Any person who knowingly performs or induces an abortion of an unborn child in violation of this subsection shall be guilty of a class B felony, as well as subject to suspension or revocation of his or her professional license by his or her professional licensing board."Shippy, Parson's spokesman, said women inducing or performing their own abortions under the law would not be charged, but he did not elaborate on how the governor's legal team reached that conclusion."We are confident in our legal analysis," Shippy said.A spokeswoman for Planned Parenthood Advocates in Missouri said the organization's attorneys were analyzing the legislation and could challenge the new law in court."We are examining all of our options to ensure Missourians have access to the healthcare that they need," said Sarah Felts, of Planned Parenthood.Planned Parenthood runs the only abortion clinic in the state, in the Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis.Humphreys said Thursday he would fund an effort to overturn the legislation at the ballot in 2020 if Parson signed it.It is unclear whether putting a question on the ballot would have any significant impact on turnout or on Parson's ability to win a full term.University of Missouri-St. Louis political scientist Dave Robertson said the same women who are mobilized to oust President Donald Trump also would be mobilized to head to the polls to try to overturn the new abortion law."It's a marginal impact," Robertson said.The legislation is House Bill 126. Barring another last-minute settlement, the eyes of the national news media will focus on the county courthouse here Tuesday for the start of a trial where Johnson and Johnson and a group of affiliated opioid manufacturers are accused of creating a multibillion-dollar public nuisance that has led to thousands of deaths and addictions."We've had almost 3,000 overdose deaths in the last three years in Oklahoma," Attorney General Mike Hunter said when he filed the state's lawsuit in 2017. "We need to hold these people accountable. Manufacturers have in a consistent and ... coldblooded fashion marketed these drugs in a way that has misrepresented their tendency to be addictive and the extent to which they can be deadly."Oklahoma initially sued three large opioid manufacturers and their affiliated companies, but two of the groups have entered into settlement agreements and been dropped from the lawsuit.OxyContin manufacturer Purdue Pharma LP entered into a $270 million settlement with the state in March that calls for the bulk of that money, nearly $200 million, to go to the Oklahoma State University Center for Wellness and Recovery in Tulsa to establish a national center on addiction modeled after the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.A second settlement agreement with Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. and its affiliates was announced Sunday. Still being finalized, that agreement calls for those companies to pay $85 million in cash to the state, with the money to be used to help abate the opioid crisis, Hunter said.Still remaining as defendants in the lawsuit are a group of affiliates headed by Johnson & Johnson and Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc., which manufacture Nucynta opioid pills and Duragesic, a fentanyl patch.Attorneys for the state say they expect it will take between $12.7 billion and $17.5 billion over a 20- to 30-year period to abate Oklahoma's opioid problem. They want Cleveland County District Judge Thad Balkman to order the drug companies named in the lawsuit to pay for the abatement.Opioid manufacturers acknowledge the state and nation have an opioid abuse and addiction problem, but contend they have complied with U.S. Food and Drug Administration labeling regulations.They argue that the state is unfairly attempting to hold them financially responsible for doctors who over-prescribe, street drugs trafficked by international drug cartels and the state's failure to enforce its own drug laws.They also contend the public nuisance law they are accused of violating requires the state to prove that they engaged in some unlawful act or omission. They claim the state won't be able to prove that.More than 140 journalists have requested courtroom credentials, including representatives of the Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, The Guardian-London, Bloomberg, CBS-60 Minutes, ARTE-Europe, CNN, NBC News-New York, Fox News Channel, NPR, The Oklahoman, Norman Transcript and all major local television outlets.Not since the 2004 state trial of Oklahoma City bombing conspirator Terry Nichols has an Oklahoma trial drawn this much media attention.Not since 46 states sued the nation's four largest tobacco companies in the 1990s has a public health crisis prompted such high-stakes litigation on a national scale. The tobacco litigation ended in a $206 billion settlement.The national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports opioids were involved in more than 47,000 overdose deaths in 2017, alone. That year, 388 of the opioid-related deaths were in Oklahoma. In 2015, more than 326 million opioid pills were dispensed to Oklahoma residents, enough for every adult to have 110 pills, the state's attorneys say.The president of the United States has declared opioid abuse to be an epidemic.Hundreds of cities, counties, states and American Indian tribes have responded to the crisis by filing lawsuits against opioid manufacturers and others in the distribution chain. More than 1,700 of those lawsuits have been consolidated in a major federal court action pending in Ohio. Attorneys refer to those lawsuits as multi-district litigation, or MDL.Some entities, however, have pushed to have their cases tried in state court. The state of Oklahoma is the first of those entities to get its case to trial.So the nation will be watching -- not only to see whether Oklahoma Attorney General Hunter can win a multibillion-dollar judgment against opioid manufacturers, but also to see whether the state's attorneys have uncovered evidence that drug companies engaged in fraudulent marketing practices and other abuses in an effort to bolster sales.Joe Rice, co-lead counsel in the National Prescription Opiate Litigation, said since this is the first case to go to trial, this is the first time the public will get to see much of the evidence that attorneys across the country have gathered that will show how opioid manufacturers marketed their products.Pharmaceutical companies have been forced to turn over tens of millions of pages of documents to opposing attorneys, but up to this point most of those documents have been kept from public view by protective orders designed to protect company trade secrets and other confidential corporate information.That is expected to change dramatically during the trial."It will be the first time that there will be a trial where a lot of the evidence that has been put under a confidentiality agreement or documents that haven't been released to the public will be available," Rice said. "I think the transparency that it offers is very valuable to addressing this whole health epidemic problem that we have not only with opioids, but how the health industry works."Rice said he thinks the public will view opioid manufacturers differently once they see the evidence."You have to face the fiddler," he said.Just because Oklahoma is the first state to get its case to trial doesn't necessarily mean that Oklahoma will get its money first if a huge judgment is awarded, Rice said, adding that is not something that he worries about."Whatever Oklahoma does to beat the epidemic is of benefit to everybody," he said. "Many of these cases are about the same thing. Stop the marketing and the improper use of these drugs. ... Help us get people the help they need."The Oklahoma opioid case is considered so critical by the pharmaceutical companies and the state's attorney general that 116 attorneys made appearances in the case. While many of those attorneys represented companies that have now settled, dozens remain.Judge Balkman has agreed to allow cameras in the courtroom, so the public should get a more complete view of proceedings than is often the case. The trial was initially expected to last two to three months, but should be shortened some by the settlements.Oklahoma's lawsuit accuses opioid manufacturers of causing the crisis by orchestrating misleading marketing campaigns that understated the addictive properties of the powerful painkillers while overstating their therapeutic benefits.Attorneys for the state say opioid pain medications have been around for decades but initially didn't create much of a problem because doctors were aware of their addictive and deadly properties and generally restricted their use to end of life care, cancer treatment and short-term pain management following surgeries.They claim that changed in the 1990s when opioid manufacturers began promoting the use of opioids for chronic, non-cancer pain in an effort to boost profits. They allege an "arms race" developed with drug companies using "massive sales forces, speaker programs, continuing medical education, branded marketing and unbranded marketing.""Defendants 'targeted' Oklahoma prescribers and hammered them with these messages from all angles," state attorneys allege.They also claim the drug companies targeted consumers directly and that Johnson & Johnson, in particular, targeted "children, the elderly and veterans."Attorneys for Johnson & Johnson and subsidiary Janssen Pharmaceuticals said in a joint trial brief that Janssen marketed two Schedule II opioid pain medications in Oklahoma during the period involved in this case: a fentanyl-based skin patch called Duragesic and a tapentadol-based tablet called Nucynta."These Janssen medications bear no responsibility of any kind for Oklahoma's opioid abuse crisis," the companies claimed. "None occupied more than a minuscule share of opioid pain medication prescriptions written by Oklahoma doctors.""Some of the state's claims with regard to unbranded materials are simply made up," they said. "For example, Janssen never promoted opioid use by children."The trial is scheduled to begin 9 a.m. Tuesday with attorneys presenting their opening statements. The Supreme Court agreed Friday to put on hold partisan gerrymandering cases from Ohio and Michigan, temporarily sparing Republican lawmakers in those states of the need to redraw congressional districts by the summer.The high court's emergency order came as no surprise. The justices are weighing partisan gerrymandering cases from North Carolina and Maryland, and are expected to hand down rulings by the end of June. At issue is whether state lawmakers violate the Constitution if they drew an electoral map to entrench their party in power.That ruling will determine what happens in Ohio and Michigan as well.Federal judges in Ohio and Michigan had ordered the two states to begin immediate work on redrawing their electoral maps, but the Supreme Court suspended those rulings in a pair of brief orders. There were no dissents from the justices.The court's conservatives, led by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., have been skeptical of authorizing judges to decide whether politics played too much of a role in drawing election districts.But three-judge panels in Ohio and in Michigan chose to address the issue head on this spring, and they struck down the GOP maps in those states on the grounds they were drawn to ensure Republicans would win a large majority of the seats.In Ohio, Republicans regularly won 12 of the state's 16 congressional seats, even when the voters were evenly divided between the parties.In a May 3 ruling, the judges in the Ohio case issued a 301-page opinion and said Republican leaders "manipulated district lines in an attempt to control electoral outcomes." In doing so, the GOP leaders violated the 1st Amendment by discriminating against voters based on their political views, the ruling said. A separate three-judge panel said the same about Michigan's election map, which helped the GOP win nine of 14 seats.The skewed maps worked as planned last year in Ohio and North Carolina, despite a Democratic wave in the November elections. None of the congressional seats switched parties in those two states, although one North Carolina race has yet to be resolved.To the surprise of the lawyers representing Ohio and Michigan, the judges refused to put their rulings on hold pending the outcome of the case in the high court. Ohio lawmakers were given a deadline of June 14, and Michigan's were told they must have a new map by August.The lawyers for both states filed emergency appeals with the Supreme Court on May 10, urging the justices to put their cases on hold pending the rulings on partisan gerrymandering. Embattled Secretary of State David Whitley -- whose office wrongly challenged the citizenship of thousands of Texas voters -- resigned Monday.In his resignation letter, Whitley made no mention of the botched voter purge, which ultimately led all 12 senate Democrats to block his confirmation through the legislative session."Working alongside the employees in the secretary of state's office, county election officials, and representatives of our #1 trading partner, Mexico, has been my distinct honor and privilege," Whitley wrote to Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, who nominated him to the job in December. "And to have your trust in doing so goes beyond what I ever dreamed of as a kid growing up in a small South Texas community."Neither Abbott nor Whitley responded to a request for comment.Abbott now must name a replacement, who likely won't face confirmation hearings at the Legislature until after the 2020 election. It's not clear who that will be.Though the state ended the voter purge in April under terms of a settlement agreement with civil rights groups that sued, the next secretary of state can continue efforts to identify and remove non citizens from the voter rolls. But first, the office must revise its screening criteria to ensure that the results are more accurate next time.Sen. Jose Rodriguez, D-El Paso, said he hopes the next nominee will learn from what happened."Democrats were united in their concern about the actions that Mr. Whitley took and that hurt a lot of voters and naturalized citizens," he said.Whitley had to be confirmed by Monday, the end of the legislative session, or he would lose his job. The letter was released shortly before the state Senate adjourned. The next legislative session begins in 2021, after the upcoming election.Whitley became a lightning rod in January, after his office wrongly flagged tens of thousands of Texans as potential non-citizens to be removed from the voter rolls.The announcement that nearly 100,000 suspected noncitizen voters had been found was seized upon by President Donald Trump and other top Republicans as evidence of voter fraud. But within days, county election officials found thousands of citizens were erroneously included.The lawsuit from civil rights groups eventually put a stop to the bungled voter purge.Luis Vera of San Antonio, national general counsel for The League of United Latin American Citizens, speaking on his own behalf, said Whitley initiated the settlement talks."He reached out to us, he did everything to correct this thing," Vera said. "You either get somebody better or somebody worse. You think Gov. Abbott is going to give us somebody better?"Abbott and other state leaders, meanwhile, have laid blame at the Department of Public Safety, accusing the agency of providing flawed data for the analysis, which began in March 2018. The list was created by comparing DPS driver license records -- some of the records more than 20 years old -- to state voter rolls.House Speaker Dennis Bonnen on Monday said "it's a shame that DPS didn't take all the responsibility for their failure from the beginning.""For some reason, no one wanted to pay attention to that because we were too busy head-hunting the secretary of state," he said. The Texas Senate on Sunday night narrowly approved a bill that would allow Texans to carry their guns for up to a week after a natural disaster.House Bill 1177 passed by a vote of 16-15 and now heads to Gov. Greg Abbott for his signature or veto. If it becomes law, any Texan who can legally own a firearm would be able to carry their handgun, open or concealed, for a full week after a state or natural disaster is declared.Sen. Joan Huffman of Houston, one of the three Republicans who voted against it, raised concerns that the bill was dramatically expanded from the version the Senate debated earlier this year to one that could present real problems for police working after a hurricane or other disaster."It's really, really poor public policy that is not well thought out," said Huffman, a former judge. "It is not solving a problem. It is creating a problem."Under current law, Texans who can legally own a firearm don't need an additional license to openly carry a long arm, like a AR-15. However, to carry a handgun openly or concealed, Texans must get a "license to carry," which requires taking a course, performing a shooting test, passing a background check and paying a fee.Gun owners asked for these license rules to be loosened after Hurricane Harvey hit the Gulf Coast in 2017. Gun control groups like Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America oppose the bill, but the NRA supported it, saying it would allow Texans to protect themselves and their property from being looted after a hurricane or other natural disaster.Beaumont GOP Rep. Dade Phelan's bill, as originally filed, would have allowed people to carry for a full week after a natural disaster. But its Senate sponsor, Brandon Creighton of Conroe, later changed it to 48 hours. The bill was changed back to one week late last week, when a conference committee of 10 lawmakers met to hash out the final version of the bill. Huffman and Sen. Eddie Lucio, D-Brownsville, did not sign off on the changes.Creighton said he didn't suggest these changes but urged the Senate to accept them before lawmakers finish the 2019 session Monday."We don't have much time to do much else," Creighton, R-Conroe said, adding that he respected Huffman's opinion."I would say you obviously do not," she shot back, joking that she still had the option to filibuster the bill.All 12 Democrats, along with Republican Sens. Kel Seliger of Amarillo and Robert Nichols of Jacksonville, voted against the bill.Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo said in a tweet that he hopes Abbott doesn't sign it."We experienced one of the worst disasters in Texas history during Harvey," he said. "The World watched as we all came together. This bill wasn't needed then & isn't needed now. This will embolden 20,000+ gang members & will not help LE."The Texas Legislature has taken up only a few other gun bills this session. In addition to this natural disasters bill, Abbott will also be tasked with determining the fate of bills to remove the blanket prohibition against guns in churches and lift the cap on the number of school employees that can be armed while on campus. The cloud is a powerful tool for driving digital transformation, but risks abound at every step of the journey. Public-sector IT leaders must assess where they stand in the cloud adoption curve and plan how to optimize their infrastructure costs. Most people today will acknowledge that earthquakes are a recognized hazard that they should expect to happen sometime. Thus, this story,is nothing new to them. A blip on the radar screen of Trump news that dominates our TV and radio news.The same reason young people risk their lives to take selfies on cliffs is similar to the earthquake threat. If it happens, a fall perhaps, then it will happen to someone else, certainly not me.But then, there is this, University of Washington M9 Seismic Study, a multi-year study to look at how modern high-rise buildings respond to a Cascadia Subduction earthquake. Answer: depending on the seismic wave, not so good! Tall buildings built back in the 1970s might fail completely as in destroyed, toppled, pancaked, etc. Yikes! But then, when will that happen?The risks continue to grow however our collective awareness of the risks is paltry in comparison. While it is great for building engineers to have this data, just about everyone should be aware of the risks. Still, I see where MOD Pizza proudly announced that their newest store in Seattle is located in Pioneer Square! Yeah! Likely in an unreinforced masonry building (URM) that will pancake in a major earthquake (I can't vouch for their specific building but, if I was a guessing man ... not many have been seismically mitigated). So, go have a great slice of pizza and risk your life to do so. Everyone else living, working, visiting the Pioneer Square area are in the same boat, so if they are not worried why should I be worried?Enjoy! (TNS) An annual study says West Virginias ability to monitor and respond to natural or manmade disasters dropped significantly in 2018 over the previous year.The study released this month by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation said the states rating for health security dropped 3.2% last year, while its ability to monitor threats that would require large-scale medical responses dropped 7%.Its not the direction you want to move in, said Glen Mays, the University of Kentucky-based head researcher who led a team that reviewed 129 measures that go into the study.The 2019 Index showed the United States scored a 6.7 on a 10-point scale for preparedness. Thats a 3.1 percent improvement over the last year, and a 11.7 percent improvement since the Index began in 2013.However, West Virginia did not see the advances other states experienced.West Virginia has lost some capacity of being table to protect health status in the advent of an emergency. Its not the direction we hope to go in, Mays said.The study examined multiple facets of natural and manmade events ranging from flooding to wildfires to disease outbreaks to chemical spills. The study also looked at housing and transportation and how those issues play into health care security.Mays said states can use the data in the Index to look at ways to make their health care delivery and emergency response systems better.We want to look at what specific kinds of capacities we have deficits in and look at shoring those up, Mays said.Mays also said West Virginia received a low score in the Index because the state does not have a uniform Electronic Laboratory Information System to share medical information quickly with other partners to fend off or respond to disasters.Its 2019 now, electronic lab information systems allow the states to share information with other states, and the Centers for Disease Control, Mays said.Lack of a uniform electronic records system slows down how quickly disaster information is shared, Mays said.Slower is bad when youre trying to contain an outbreak. You want to contain that first case rapidly and try and stop it from spreading. Being able to notify the neighboring state, if it takes you a day or two to transmit that data rather than within minutes, that gap in time allows that pathogen to spread quicker, Mays said.Donnie Haynes, director of the West Virginia Center for Threat Preparedness in Charleston, said while he would argue Mays point about sharing electronic records, there are some links in the states information-sharing chain that are not as strong as they should be to have optimum health security preparedness.Our state public health lab, the Office of Laboratory Services, they currently do use an electronic laboratory information system and we do have some capability to provide electronic laboratory reporting to our partners across the state. However, not all hospitals are currently set up or capable to receive those electronic records, Haynes said.So, currently we use a fax mechanism to send those submitted results to make sure that we share with our partners, but we do have that capability to use an electronic lab reporting system because we are required by federal law to submit outbreak monitoring and surveillance records to the CDC for all required laboratory reporting, Haynes said.Not all of the West Virginia data in the study is negative, Mays said. West Virginia leads the nation in the countermeasure management domain the measure of how quickly remedies, such as supplies and medications, can be deployed in the event of a contagion or outbreak.Mays said the Mountain State scored high in this measure due to the large number of pharmacies in the state.Pharmacies are incurably important if we had an outbreak, relief is going to occur through pharmacies and the pharmacists are a big part of that, Mays said.For example, if we have an outbreak that requires, say, Cipro, the pharmacies are going to be the ones on the front line distributing the medications needed to stop the spread of the outbreak.But being prepared for a large-scale disaster that could claim a large of number of lives goes far beyond pharmacies, according to Haynes.Haynes cited the states current Hepatitis A outbreak as a good example of real-life health care threat preparedness. He said Hepatitis A, for the most part, is being handled directly at the source in West Virginia because of relationships, planning and coordination.Were able to go into these non-traditional facilities, such as comprehensive treatment centers or homeless shelters or soup kitchens, and reach these at-risk populations directly without having to rely on them coming to physicians offices or pharmacies to get their vaccination, Haynes said. So, that outreach really is critical and substantial to the impact that were having here to reduce the spread of Hepatitis A.Haynes said health care threat preparedness involves coalition building on the state, regional and local levels.He also said several factors could have contributed to the overall drop in West Virginias score. Lower salaries have created staffing shortages in health care and other fields. Despite those staffing issues, however, West Virginia scored well in the 2019 Index on the measure of EMS response times in rural areas.For rural areas, youve actually gotten a little faster in emergency response times and are better than the national average, Mays said. One of the recommendations we make, about response times, is to get more organizations collaborating in local coalitions.And thats where Jamie Moore comes in.As the coordinator of the Monongalia County Preparedness Action Coalition Team that covers Doddridge, Harrison, Monongalia, Marion, Taylor And Preston counties, its Moores job to serve as the relationship guy.In each county, there is also a coordinator and they also have a relationship guy. So youve got a bunch of people always working on the relationships, Moore said.One of the health care programs Moore is currently helping to coordinate is called Stop the Bleed, which involves training hundreds of citizens and health care professionals on how to provide aid to someone who is losing blood.Threat preparedness is all about evaluating what your risks are and having a plan to handle them, Moore said. Its important to have conversations about how you're going to react in an emergency.Email Eric Cravey at ecravey@timeswv.com 2019 the Times West Virginian (Fairmont, W. Va.)Visit the Times West Virginian (Fairmont, W. Va.) at www.timeswv.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. After more than 20 years heading IT in Fairfax County, Va., Wanda Gibson is moving on.Not far across the Potomac and Washington, D.C., east of the city to Prince Georges County, Md. but its a farewell to decades of work for one of the nations longest-serving IT chiefs at the local level. Effective July, Gibson, 64, will retire from Fairfax County and become CIO of a government that encompasses more than 900,000 people, roughly comparable to her current role. As has often been the case in Gibsons career, she was recruited for the new position. She said her decision was a matter of timing and personal convenience, as it will shorten her commute by an hour, keep her closer to family and coincide with retirement from Fairfax.A fourth-generation native of the Washington, D.C., area, Gibson has a bachelors degree in psychology and an MBA from Howard University, and a certificate in software engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She said she started her career as an industry consultant at AT&T before being recruited by Howard University to be its executive director of university computing. In 1996 she became CIO of Arlington County, Va., where she served for three years until being recruited to Fairfax County by longtime county official Anthony Griffin in 1999. Shes been chief technology officer there ever since.Looking back on two decades of work during a transformative period for government technology, Gibson was hard-pressed to summarize her accomplishments, but she cited many: a complete overhaul of technology architecture and infrastructure from the 1990s, including network, storage and applications; implementation of SAP enterprise resource planning; a complete set of new applications serving 911, police and fire; several agency-specific applications in the human and social services arena; and several regional initiatives, such as the implementation of data exchange for computer-aided dispatch systems among six agencies in Northern Virginia, and leading a project that tied together fiber networks across 23 governments in the capital region.According to a mini-bio she provided by email, Gibson has also been a member of over half a dozen professional groups such as the Washington Metropolitan Council of Governments CIO Committee, National Capital Region Homeland Security Advisory Committee, National Capital Region Interoperability Working Group, the Commonwealth of Virginia Interoperability Advisory Group, Virginia IT Leaders, Metropolitan Information Exchange, Government Management Information Society, the Commonwealth of Virginia IT Symposium and the Federal Office Systems Expo.In 2003,* magazine named her Public Official of the Year ; in 2007, she mades list of the nations top-five women CIOs; and in 2010, she was one of GTs Top 25 Doers, Dreamers and Drivers . Under her leadership, Fairfax County has been among the top-five digital counties recognized by the Center for Digital Government* for 14 years.Gibson said one of the structural changes that helped her keep pace with the industry was treating upgrades as operating expenditures instead of capital projects. It gave her department the freedom to update systems with fewer obstacles and will continue to do so for her staff, as the county transfers its systems to offsite data centers.When I got to Fairfax, one thing we decided to do is not have the basic foundational technology as part of capital projects. We baked it into operating, so the staff could continually enhance as they go along, she said. There are a whole lot of strategic things underway. Were moving different systems out to the cloud, were doing some really good things with AI and digital assistance on our websites Were getting out of the infrastructure business, so [Fairfax County staff] will no longer be managing an onsite data center.Awaiting her in Prince Georges County are several large initiatives that county staff recruited her to tackle, including a new 311 customer relationship management project, updating and modernizing the countys website, and new enterprise resource planning software.On the differences between IT at the county level in 2019 versus state or city, Gibson pointed out that county officials are sometimes less tied to elections and therefore have some longevity. But otherwise, in a big-picture sense, she said most of her peers recognize the same obstacles.The technology industry is pivoting so quickly that that causes a challenge for anybody in any of these governments to keep up with the investments, and the ability to change into the new technologies, she said. Its a challenge for anybody in government.GoverningGovernment Technology's (TNS) Local officials and law enforcement leaders are embracing emerging technology that allows them to map where crimes are most likely to occur within Baton Rouge neighborhoods based on geographical factors like dollar stores, apartment complexes and blighted properties.The software identifies high-risk locations where law enforcement patrols are most needed, which means the Baton Rouge Police Department can deploy their officers more effectively in hopes of preventing crime before it occurs.That proactive model becomes especially important in light of the department's long-standing manpower shortage.It's also central to Murphy Paul's ongoing efforts to improve efficiency, which he has emphasized since taking over as chief in January 2018.Consultants who are completing an efficiency study of the agency part of Paul's push to "do more with less" recently complimented the department's approach to technology, which they said is ahead of the curve.The city also received a national award last year for its use of the software, which is called Public Safety Common Operational Platform or PSCOP, pronounced "peace cop."The city's efforts are getting noticed.Senior Geographic Information System Analyst Brandon Jumonville will travel to Spain in a few weeks to present at a conference specifically focused on the use of "risk terrain modeling" to analyze the likelihood of crime. The conference includes speakers from around the world, including a few other U.S. cities.Jumonville has worked extensively with the PSCOP platform since joining the city's GIS department in 2016 just months after his cousin, Matthew Gerald, became one of three officers killed during an ambush on law enforcement in July 2016 that rocked Baton Rouge during an already tumultuous summer."This is kind of a tribute to Matt's life for me," Jumonville said. "He needlessly died serving his community, and this gives me the opportunity to play at least a small role in keeping our officers and citizens safe."Jumonville approached the job with skills he acquired doing geospatial analysis during his six years in the U.S. Marines. He works alongside other analysts within the GIS department, which handles a range of data sets including addresses, infrastructure and the 311 system for citizen complaints. The police department also has their own analysts who process crime data."The PSCOP system is basically taking counterinsurgency military tactics and adapting them to an urban terrain," he said. "It's looking at how criminals are interacting with their landscape what makes a potential criminal feel safe enough in their environment to commit that crime?"Part of the goal is getting officers to use the software and patrol accordingly, he said. That's happening more and more all the time.Jumonville has distributed a survey among uniform patrol officers, asking them to rank various geographical features according to how often crimes seem to occur near those places, such as bars, convenience stores and check-cashing businesses.He's collected the results and used them in developing new models, which also take into account past calls for service and crimes occurring at specific locations.The next step is circulating another study among the general public , which asks similar questions about where people feel unsafe. Once enough people have responded, those results will also be integrated into the risk terrain modeling system."From an analytical viewpoint, this is a completely unbiased, data-driven approach to crime," Jumonville said. "It's not focusing on demographics or individuals, it's looking at the environment where crimes occur. This marks a paradigm shift. We're asking officers to view crime differently."The PSCOP platform will also be integrated into the department's Real Time Crime Center , which is set to open in coming months and will boost data analysis and information gathering for officers.A recent study conducted by researchers from LSU and the East Baton Rouge District Attorney's Office used the same technology to show that the concentration of blighted properties and the presence of convenience stores could be used to predict where Baton Rouge homicides are most likely to occur. The risk of homicide becomes about 13 times higher within a few blocks of blighted properties, according to the results.Research has long shown that crime is not distributed evenly across communities. It's highly concentrated in certain neighborhoods or blocks or street corners and almost nonexistent in others.Experts argue that focusing on where crimes are happening in addition to who's committing them can improve efficiency and boost community relations. That shifting focus has taken hold in recent decades among law enforcement agencies nationwide."Are you trying to apprehend someone who's committed a crime or are you trying to prevent crime before it happens? If you're trying to prevent crime, it's much more effective and cheaper and easier to focus on places than people," said Jim Bueermann, a policing consultant and former president of the nonprofit National Police Foundation . "Controlling crime is not always about putting more cops on the problem."2019 The Advocate, Baton Rouge, La.Visit The Advocate, Baton Rouge, La. at www.theadvocate.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Eric Boullier says he could return to Formula 1. The Frenchman was ousted as McLaren boss last year, as the once-great British team failed to return to strength even after the dismal Honda collaboration. "I did everything I could with the means I had been given," the 45-year-old told f1only.fr. But there are now rumours Boullier, who also ran the Lotus (now Renault) team in F1, could return to the paddock. "There are rumours every morning," he admitted. "I spent twenty years of my life running teams. "I could very well come back, with an agenda that coincides with mine so that I can pass my current role to someone else." Boullier is currently involved with the organisers of the French GP at Paul Ricard. by Tran Hung Vietnamese consumers dump their Huawei products into the second-hand market. Google, UK-based ARM and Japans Panasonic halt working with the Chinese giant. Huawei wants to build the 5G network in Vietnam, but local media report that many Vietnamese are against it. Hanoi (AsiaNews) Sales and revenues of China's IT giant Huawei are sharply down in Vietnam, following restrictions imposed by the United States and Google, one of the most important US IT companies. Many Vietnamese are suspicious of the Chinese multinational based in Shenzhen (in Guangdong) and have doubts about the reliability of its products. Huawei Vietnam director Fine Fan (pictured) last March said he was "confident about the prospect of expanding business" in the Southeast Asian country. "We cannot be beaten on quality or cost" in Vietnam, he told Nikkei Asia Review. "Huawei will provide better technology and solutions, along with financial support to local operators to deploy 5G." However, for the US administration, Huawei poses risks to US national security, because it has to pass on information and data to the Chinese government. Google, following the US ban, decided on 20 May to block updates to the Android operating system on Huawei phones, as well as access to apps like Google Play, Gmail and YouTube. Two days later British multinational semiconductor and software design company ARM halted working with Huawei. Last Thursday, Panasonic also announced its decision to stop working with the Chinee giant. A survey by the Saigon Economy newspaper found that 95% of its readers do not want Huawei to win the contract for the 5G network in Vietnam. Intellectuals point out the dangers inherent in giving Chinese authorities access to information and data that run on such infrastructures. Tuoi Tre newspaper and VNExpress report that "Many Vietnamese want to sell the Huawei phones after the US ban. Currently, in Vietnam, Huawei Groups phones are very cheap." However, local media have reported that Huawei smartphones customers have been talking about the issue online forums, feeling confused, worried, and helpless to the fact their smartphones will become bricks. Hyundai Motor Group has developed a system that estimates the gross vehicle weight of a light duty commercial electric vehicle and optimizes performance accordingly. The development of the system is a first for the industry, utilizing acceleration sensors to optimize the vehicles settings based on current gross weight estimate. This technology is being considered by Hyundai Motor Group for use on future light duty electric commercial vehicles. The ability to calculate the gross weight of a vehicle on the move means that an electric vehicles torque output can be optimized to maximize estimated remaining range. This reduces potential wheel spin and reduced traction when a vehicle is carrying less payload, increasing commercial efficiency. The new technology also allows for changes in torque output based on topography, altering the amount of torque needed to propel a vehicle uphill based on its gross weight and allowing small business owners to effectively reduce unnecessary vehicle-related costs. Hyundai developed this technology because we realize that we need to take a different approach when it comes to developing electric vehicles for commercial use. We are preparing for a future where we will be able to offer commercial EVs that operate at its optimum specifications under any given road condition and regardless of how much payload it is carrying. These vehicles will be very economical to operate. Chae Mo Yang, Group Leader of Eco-Technology Performance Development Group Price competitiveness is key to the success of future electric light duty commercial vehicles for small business owners. Keeping this in mind, Hyundai Motor Group developed the gross weight estimation technology by utilizing acceleration sensors instead of weight sensors; developing the technology in this manner means that it can be applied to a vehicle not equipped with a costly air suspension system. Using acceleration sensors, gross weight is estimated through Newtons second law of motion (acceleration). In short, the less mass and more energy put on matter, the faster it moves. So, when pushing an object at a constant speed, the weight of the object can be calculated depending on its acceleration rate. Through this process, the vehicle estimates the distance it can drive and adjusts its maximum torque output. Specifically, the potential vehicle range estimate is based on the accurate measurement of the current weight and speed of the vehicle, enhancing efficiency for commercial use. For example, when the vehicle is carrying a heavy load, the vehicle automatically informs the driver of the estimated drive range to secure sufficient battery life to reach the destination safely. Hyundai Motor Group has been making a great effort to develop environment-friendly commercial vehicles to contribute to global greenhouse gas reduction. Last year, Hyundai Motor Group signed an MOU with the Swiss company H2 Energy to establish a joint venture, Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility, through which it will provide one thousand heavy duty fuel cell electric trucks for five years. GREENSBORO Thirteen North Carolina students at this summer's Eastern Music Festival have received scholarships from the Louis DeJoy and Aldona Z. Wos Family Foundation. The scholarship funding comes from $20,000 that the Greensboro-based foundation gave to EMF. This marks the foundation's fourth year of support. Wos is a former U.S. ambassador to Estonia and former secretary of the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services. DeJoy was the chief executive officer of High Point-based New Breed Logistics and XPO Logistics' supply chain business in the Americas. He is now president of LDJ Global Strategies, a strategic real estate investment and consulting company. For 58 summers, EMF has provided classical music instruction to students from around the world, under the artistic direction of Gerard Schwarz. Students, faculty and guest artists perform more than 65 concerts for the public, primarily at Guilford College. This summer's five-week session starts June 22 for 270 students ages 14 to 23. GREENSBORO A woman who shouted "Free Jacques!" before leaving a court hearing in a first-degree murder case Tuesday got called back before the judge. "We're going to keep this respectful," Superior Court Judge Lora Cubbage told the woman after bailiffs brought her back to the courtroom. "If you do it everyone thinks it is OK. Let's not do that." The woman, who never identified herself, told the judge she understood. Cubbage let her leave without holding her in contempt. Cubbage had already warned those in the gallery not to talk during the beginning of Tuesday's court session. Some ignored that warning, calling out "We love you Jacques," when bailiffs brought Lawrence Jacques Baird into the courtroom and again later in the hearing after prosecutors said they would not seek the death penalty against him. Baird, 28, is accused of killing Alisia Dieudonne, 19, of Homewood, Ill., and Ahmad Campbell, 21, of Kitrell, on Oct. 2, 2016. Prosecutors had scheduled Baird's hearing Tuesday to announce their decision. Nast still reads research articles voraciously, and while hes shunned email (I suppose I should, he said, but I dont feel like I want to at this point in my life) he works to keep up with his professions technology. Much has changed since Nast first began in the field soft contact lenses hadnt yet been invented when he began his career but some things have remained the same. JACKSBORO, Tenn. Tennessee authorities say three ATV riders from North Carolina were killed when their vehicle fell down an embankment through thick brush. Media outlets report a fourth person was found injured by emergency responders. The Campbell County Sheriff's office said Monday the injured minor was airlifted to a Knoxville hospital. His condition was not immediately known. The crash occurred Sunday in the area of a privately owned, off-road adventure park that offers riding trails. Authorities have identified the dead as 47-year-old Ronnie Akins, 19-year-old Dillon Akins and 19-year-old Jonathan Laws, all of Weaverville, North Carolina. The sheriff's office says the ATV left a trail and fell more than 100 feet. Rescuers had to cut through thick brush and trees to reach the crash site. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. TOKYO (AP) A man carrying a knife in each hand and screaming "I will kill you" attacked a group of schoolchildren waiting at a bus stop just outside Tokyo on Tuesday, wounding at least 19 people, including 13 children, Japanese authorities and media said. The victims were lined up at a bus stop near Noborito Park in Kawasaki City when a man in his 40s or 50s attacked. NHK national television, quoting police, said that the suspect died after slashing himself in the neck. Police wouldn't immediately confirm the report or provide or other specific details. It wasn't immediately clear how many others had died. An official with the Kawasaki fire department told The Associated Press that one person had been killed. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasn't authorized to speak to the media. Some Japanese media outlets were reporting at least three deaths, while some were saying two, including the attacker. Kyodo news agency reported that all 13 children who were stabbed were girls at a nearby private school in Kawasaki City. Thank you for reading! We hope that you continue to enjoy our free content. Police Chief Ralph Evangelous has effectively been handcuffed as the WPD tries to end the violence that plagues public housing communities in Wilmington. This is not a police-alone problem, Evangelous said recently. This is a community problem. The chief is right the community cannot police its way out of the generational poverty and despair that have a grip on places such as Creekwood and Houston Moore. There have been three murders in Creekwood this year, all within a single block. And when a group of teachers and school administrators headed out to Houston Moore last August for a cookout to get kids fired up for the start of school, instead, the violence-plagued housing complex was fired up with bullets. When the dust settled, a 25-year-old was dead. Since he arrived here in 2004, Chief Evangelous has made helping keep at-risk youth safe and out of trouble a priority. Much of that effort has been focused on public housing. In places such as Creekwood and Houston Moore, the chiefs best efforts have failed. We think they will continue to fail. The Triad, particularly High Point, has taken the initiative to rebrand itself as a welcoming community home to a diverse multicultural population. Many of our international citizens immigrated to the United States in search of a better life, seeking asylum from displacement, poverty or violence. Given that the U.S. is the light at the end of the tunnel for so many international asylum-seekers, it seems only fair that our foreign policy efforts reflect the high expectations these refugees have for us. I encourage all readers to contact their representatives and ask for their continued support of foreign aid bills as a gesture of goodwill to our international neighbors. To anyone concerned about immigration into the United States, www.borgenproject.org is an incredible resource for learning the many ways foreign aid and poverty-reduction efforts can help many of those forced to immigrate or seek asylum remain in their home countries safely and happily. Rolling Thunder devotees gathered around Muller, thinking the event had been saved. But all around him, the team members behind Rolling Thunder were shaking their heads. They had not received a call from The White House. The Pentagon had not been in touch. The rally would still cost about $200,000 to put on far too much of which, the organizers believe, goes to parking lot rental and security. The ordeal of dealing with the Pentagons security demands, they said, was no longer worth it. Effective preparation for an event the size and scale of a Rolling Thunder ride is a complicated and lengthy process, a Pentagon representative said Saturday. When the tweet from Trump who was in Japan went out, the Pentagon referred reporters to the White House. A White House representative did not respond to a request for comment. Unless the venue started costing Rolling Thunder less, its organizers said, nothing was going to change. Instead of having the one ride in Washington, local chapters would put on smaller rallies across the country next year. Spokeswoman Nancy Regg repeated to reporters who called her Sunday: If we are invited to the White House, well go, but as of right now, this is our final ride. Kent Art Association / Contributed photo For Connecticut Open House Day, the Kent Art Association is hosting a free talk Saturday, June 8, by art historian Matt Soltis on Leonardo Da Vincis Mona Lisa, arguably one of the most recognizable paintings in the world. The 21 x 30 portrait of the woman with the mysterious smile and no eyebrows is one of Louvre Museums prized pieces of artwork. But what if there were another one that can also be authenticated as having been painted by Da Vinci? In 1919 another Mona Lisa was discovered, but unlike all other claims, this one has passed every scientific test as well as won the approval of many Mona Lisa and Da Vinci scholars. If this version, which is strongly believed to be an earlier version of the painting hanging in the Louvre in Paris, wins the approval of all scholars, it could change everything. Edmund Morris, a stylish, Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer who wrote a monumental history of Theodore Roosevelt and divided critics with "Dutch," an authorized biography of Ronald Reagan that featured several fictional characters, died May 24 at a hospital in Danbury, Connecticut. He was 78. His wife, fellow biographer Sylvia Jukes Morris, said he suffered a stroke the previous day while at home in the nearby town of Kent. Raised in British colonial Kenya, the soft-spoken, piano-playing Morris never received a college degree and was not trained as a historian. But he became a leading practitioner of narrative biography, known for crafting elaborate, cinematic accounts of Beethoven, Roosevelt and Reagan, with a volume on the inventor Thomas Edison scheduled for publication in October. For Morris, biography was a great journey into the unknown, or something comparable to a colonoscopy. Interviewing friends and relatives of the late president to nail down the sound of Roosevelt's laugh, poring over Reagan's diary in search of insights into his character, the author collected details on a vast supply of 5-by-8-inch cards, then slowly shaped his material into a manuscript. Fixated by the mechanics of his sentences, he said he wrote no more than 300 words a day in longhand with a green fountain pen. His career as a biographer began in the 1970s, after he turned from advertising to freelance work in New York. He had written an unproduced screenplay about Roosevelt's ranching years in the Badlands of North Dakota and embarked on a biography at the encouragement of his agent. The book was intended as a single volume, but after Morris traveled to Roosevelt's home on Long Island, known as Sagamore Hill, his material began to sprawl, ultimately taking the form of a 2,500-page trilogy. Its first volume, "The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt" (1979), won the Pulitzer and National Book Award for biography, and became a best-selling Book of the Month Club selection. Among its many fans was Ronald Reagan and his advisers, who invited Morris to serve as the newly elected president's official biographer. Morris said he initially found Reagan "bland" and "uninteresting" and dismissed the president's requests until 1985, when he watched Reagan deliver a moving speech at Bergen-Belsen, the former Nazi concentration camp. "I should be chronicling this," he recalled thinking. Taking a hiatus from his Roosevelt project, Morris secured a record $3 million advance from Random House and devoted the next 14 years to Reagan, working out of the White House library and interviewing the president about once a month. ("I'm not going to charge up San Juan Hill for you," Reagan joked in their first meeting, referring to Roosevelt's exploit in the Spanish-American War.) But there was a problem: Reagan, Morris later recalled, was "simply boring." The Gipper came to life only when others entered the room. And after more than a decade of research, Morris found himself with a difficult case of writer's block. The solution came to him one day in 1992, as he stepped on an acorn while walking across the campus of Reagan's alma mater, Eureka College. To place himself at Reagan's side, he devised a fictional "Edmund Morris" who knew the president from childhood, as well as several other fabricated members of the Morris clan, whose lives were documented in bogus footnotes. The book featured no printed acknowledgment that it was dabbling in fiction, aside from a brief reference on the jacket flap. Morris wanted his biography "to weave its own spell" and was convinced readers would quickly realize what he was up to. "See, what I'm doing is giving flesh to the biographical mind," he told The Boston Globe. "Instead of saying, 'Ronald Reagan at 16 stood 6 feet high and wore a wool swimsuit,' I just simply described it from the point of view of an eyewitness. The reason it worked so well in this book is that his whole life was performance, and performance is meaningless without a witness, without an audience." The result, "Dutch: A Memoir of Ronald Reagan" (1999), was a national sensation, spurring debate over the subjective element of biographies and nonfiction more broadly. Peggy Noonan, Reagan's former speechwriter, called the book a "belly-flop into the pools of Narcissus"; Washington Post columnist George Will declared that it was "dishonorable" and "an act of bad faith." "Morris's book is an intellectual embarrassment," Princeton politics professor Fred Greenstein wrote in a review for Political Science Quarterly. "It blurs fact with fiction, substitutes effusion for rigorous analysis, and is riddled with errors. It also is seriously incomplete, especially in its treatment of the aspect of Reagan's experience to which Morris might have been expected to have the most to add - his White House years." Some critics were far kinder, with Christopher Lehmann-Haupt of The New York Times writing that he could "think of few conventional political biographies that bring their subjects' pasts so richly alive." Morris, who always insisted that the biography was backed up by research, delighted in the controversy. His aims, he told The Times, were always more literary than journalistic. "I do not think of myself as a historian," he said. "I've always thought of myself only as a writer." Arthur Edmund Morris was born in Nairobi on May 27, 1940. His father was a pilot for East African Airways, and his mother was a homemaker. The family moved to South Africa during the Mau Mau rebellion in the 1950s, by which time Morris had begun writing novels while sitting in the back of the classroom. He briefly studied at Rhodes University and embarked on a career as an advertising copywriter because it enabled him to write. Settling in London, he developed an informal arrangement with a boardinghouse near his office, where he was allowed to play the piano in exchange for performing chores twice a week. One of the residents, Sylvia Jukes, walked in on him cleaning the floors one day; they married in 1968 and immigrated to the United States, where they collaborated on travel cassettes for Trans World Airlines, researching the histories and cultures of European countries. The work was superficial but revelatory. "We realized that we were biographers at heart," Sylvia Morris said in a phone interview, adding that Morris turned to Roosevelt as a subject in part because of President Richard Nixon's resignation address, which quoted a few lines from the 26th president. Morris concluded his trilogy with "Theodore Rex" (2001) and "Colonel Roosevelt" (2010). His other works included "Beethoven: The Universal Composer" (2005) and "This Living Hand" (2012), an essay collection. He also contributed to publications including The New Yorker, The New York Times and The Washington Post, where he wrote occasional music reviews. In addition to his wife, who has written biographies of Clare Boothe Luce and first lady Edith Roosevelt, survivors include a brother and sister. "Biography, in a way, is a strange form of love," Morris told The Globe in 1999. "It has all the ingredients of love except it should not have too much affection. But in it one finds the mystery of the initial attraction; the insatiable curiosity, which never flags; the long-term commitment; and the interaction of character. The only ingredients that are missing are adoration and, of course, sexuality." A federal judge on Friday temporarily blocked a Mississippi law that would ban most abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, at about six weeks of pregnancy. "Here we go again," U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves wrote in his order. "Mississippi has passed another law banning abortions prior to viability." His new order stops the law from taking effect July 1. Reeves is the same judge who struck down a 2018 Mississippi law to ban abortion at 15 weeks. Mississippi is one of several states that have pushed this year to enact bans on early abortions. Opponents of abortion are emboldened by new conservative Supreme Court justices and are looking for ways to challenge the court's 1973 ruling that legalized abortion nationwide. Reeves heard arguments Tuesday from attorneys for the state's only abortion clinic, who said the law would effectively eliminate all abortions in Mississippi because cardiac activity is often first detectable when many women may not know they are pregnant. Lawyers with the state attorney general's office said the law should be allowed to take effect because it's not a complete ban on abortion but is, rather, a limit on when the procedure could be done. Alabama's Republican governor recently signed a law to ban most abortions. Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi and Ohio have enacted or neared approval of measures barring abortion once there's a detectable fetal heartbeat. Missouri lawmakers approved an eight-week ban. All of those laws are expected to face legal challenges, and the Kentucky one was temporarily blocked by a federal judge in March. Reeves ruled last year that Mississippi's 15-week ban is unconstitutional because it would prohibit access to abortion before a fetus could survive outside the pregnant woman's body. Viability is generally considered to be about 23 or 24 weeks. In an indication of which way he is leaning on the request to block the new law with the earlier ban, Reeves asked attorneys Tuesday: "Doesn't it boil down to: Six is less than 15?" Also during the hearing, Reeves criticized Mississippi lawmakers for passing an earlier ban after he struck down the one at 15 weeks. "It sure smacks of defiance to this court," he said. Reeves will hear arguments later about the question of whether the six-week ban is constitutional. He wrote Friday that the new law "prevents a woman's free choice, which is central to personal dignity and autonomy. This injury outweighs any interest the State might have in banning abortions after the detection of a fetal heartbeat." The state is appealing Reeves' ruling on the 15-week ban, and Republican Gov. Phil Bryant signed the new law in March. The state's only abortion clinic, Jackson Women's Health Organization, quickly sued the state. Bryant said in a statement Friday that he is disappointed in Reeves' ruling. "As governor, I've pledged to do all I can to protect life," Bryant said. "Time and time again the Legislature and I have done just that." Nancy Northup is president and CEO of the Center for Reproductive Rights, one of the groups representing the Mississippi abortion clinic. "The sponsors of Mississippi's six-week ban, like those of other extreme bans across the country, are shamelessly seeking to overturn Roe v. Wade," Northup said after Friday's ruling. "We will block them at every turn. The Constitution protects a woman's right to make decisions over her body and her life." The Mississippi law says physicians who perform abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected could face revocation of their state medical licenses. It also says abortions could be allowed after a fetal heartbeat is found if a pregnancy endangers a woman's life or one of her major bodily functions. Senators rejected an amendment that would have allowed exceptions for pregnancies caused by rape or incest. Sully, the former service dog for the late President George H.W. Bush, had a sweet tribute photo taken next to the World War II Memorial. The Instagram post included a quote from Bush and a tribute that says, "Always thinking of my best friend & the bravest military in the world who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending our country for our freedoms." Sully gained national attention and affection for his companionship and service to Bush during the last stages of the former president's life. After Bush died last year, a picture of Sully resting faithfully in front of his casket went viral online. So much of what we believe has changed for better for this country is reflected in what she struggled for, said then-U.S. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew in April 2016 when he announced plans to put Tubman on the front of the $20 bill as early as 2020 to mark the centennial of womens suffrage. Hers is a legacy of what an individual can do in a democracy, Lew said. Connecticut should be proud to be on the right side of history. The state Senate, voting 32-4, recently banned the importation, sale, possession and transportation of Africas Big 5 elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and giraffes and their body parts in Connecticut. Thats monumental news that comes on the heels of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officially considering listing the giraffe as an endangered species, a move long sought by wildlife advocates alarmed by the their precipitous decline and a growing domestic market for giraffe products. However it could take years before the United States gives them any protections. Shockingly, in the last four years, 443giraffe trophies/products came into the designated ports in nearby New Jersey and New York. And earlier this week, the government of Botswana announced elephant hunting will resume after a five-year prohibition despite intense lobbying by some conservation advocates to continue the ban. Connecticut does not have clean hands when it comes to pushing Africas Big 5 closer to extinction. The state is supplying customers to the grave, immoral trophy hunting industry. From 2005-2015, 59 trophy hunting permits were issued to Connecticut residents by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service so people could hunt and kill leopards for their trophies. Six additional permits were provided to Connecticut residents to kill African elephants in Botswana, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. And from 2005-2016, Connecticut residents killed 39 lions and one giraffe and imported their trophies. The Connecticut communities that have been issued the most permits for trophy hunting are: Greenwich, North Haven, Norwalk, Berlin, Stamford, Westport, Weston, Easton, Southington and Middletown. As soon as you put a price tag on these threatened, vulnerable and endangered animals, you send a mixed message about whether or not they need to be protected at all, and thats detrimental to actual conservation. Shooting animals full of bullets does not increase their population or expand their habitat. Trophy hunters are just poachers with permits. Now its up to members of the House of Representatives to pass the bipartisan bill co-sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff and state Rep. Brenda Kupchick and drafted by Friends of Animals. We hope they too concede the importance of SB20 that it recognizes legal trophy hunting as one of the main reasons that Africas Big Five face extinction. These species are already fighting for their lives because of poaching and habitat loss. Its more crucial than ever for states to take action because when it comes to trophy hunting, federal law is not protective enough. On Dec. 21, 2015, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed two lion subspecies as threatened and endangered under the Endangered Species Act. But overall the listing continues to promote trophy hunting because it allows for the importation of the body parts of the sport-hunted threatened lion species. Additionally, while the July 6, 2016 near-total ban on commercial trade in African elephant ivory that went into effect in the United States looks good on paper, it still allows for two sport-hunted elephant trophies per hunter per year. The only difference between poachers and trophy hunters is wealth and public perception. While poachers are willing to slaughter magnificent animals to make a buck, well-heeled vainglorious trophy hunters spend lots of money to hunt for bragging rights and prizes. The newest data reveals that trophy hunting is economically useless. While the Safari Club boasts that revenues from hunting generate $200 million annually in remote areas of Africa, most of the money goes to trophy hunting operators/outfitters and government agencies, many of which are corrupt. The most recent study reveals that a measly 3 percent of expenditures actually goes back to African communities. Its time for the Nutmeg state to stop supporting a useless industry. It would be the first state to do so through the legislature, making it a role model for other states to follow suit. Rowayton resident Priscilla Feral is president of Darien-based Friends of Animals and Weston resident Richard Wiese is president of the Explorers Club and executive producer/host of Born to Explore. Back in April famed leakster Evan Blass (aka @evleaks) revealed that Motorola was working on two new Android One smartphones - of those, the One Vision has already become official. As they say - but wait, there's more! According to Blass' April tweet, a Motorola One Action was also in the pipeline, and today he updated the list to add the Motorola One Pro. Unfortunately he hasn't provided any information about the specs of these models, so for now we're left guessing. Motorola One Vision Judging by the names alone, the One Action could be a rugged smartphone - remember those? They used to be mildly popular a few years ago. As for the Pro, if we were to wager a guess, we'd say this is going to be the highest-end One-branded Motorola so far. It just makes sense, in the context of how other manufacturers have taken to using the Pro moniker. Following HMD Global's lead for the Nokia brand, Motorola seems to be willing to invest more and more resources into churning out handsets that are part of the Android One program, which ensures a stock-like software experience with decently fast OS updates - because Google is helping with those. Source The Samsung Galaxy M40 will launch in India on June 11 at 6PM local time. The company has partnered with Amazon to release the phone, which will become the new leader of the affordable M-series. It will be the first phone in the family with an Infinity O screen meaning a punch hole selfie camera as the M10, M20 and M30 all have notches. The back shows a triple camera similar to whats on the Galaxy M30. Samsung Galaxy M40 teaser The teasers promise a Snapdragon 6-series chipset and thanks to a benchmark score we know that it will be a Snapdragon 675 with 6GB of RAM. This is also a first for the M-phones as the others use Exynos 7xxx chipsets. Samsungs Galaxy M-series has found success in India, becoming the best-selling phones on Amazon.in in the February-March period. Source 1 | Source 2 | Via JACKSON COUNTY, Mississippi -- Four Jackson County students are among 12 coastwide who have received congressional appointments to U.S. military academies and preparatory schools. All of the students were nominated for their appointments by U.S. Rep. Steven Palazzo. I am incredibly proud to see that south Mississippi will be well-represented by these bright young students who exemplify leadership, Palazzo said. It is my privilege to have nominated all these soon-to-be service members. Jessica Quiros of Ocean Springs High School received an appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado. Pascagoula High graduate Jack Harrison, meanwhile, has accepted an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he plans to study Life Sciences and pursue a position as a U.S. Army surgeon. Two other 2019 Jackson County graduates -- Linda Nguyen of Gautier High School and Chelsey Washington of St. Martin High School -- have received appointments to the U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School, which serves, in essence, as a training ground for the Naval Academy at Annapolis. Each of the three military academy has a preparatory school for this purpose. I look forward to following their journeys at some of our nations best education institutions, Palazzo said. I wish them a future of great success as they learn and grow at our service academies. Each year, Palazzo hosts an Academy Day where high school students can apply for a military academy appointment. More information on the event, typically held in the fall, can be found here. OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi -- An Ocean Springs woman was killed from injuries sustained in a Memorial Day crash in which she was a passenger in one of the two vehicles. The Mississippi Highway Patrol responded to a report of a crash about 9:45 p.m. Monday on U.S. 90 west near the intersection of Mississippi 57. Troopers responding to the scene learned a gray 1997 Toyota Camry had been traveling eastbound on U.S. 90 when it attempted to make a left turn onto Highway 57 north, running a red light in the process. At that point, a westbound 2013 Ford Escape crashed into the front passenger side of the Toyota Camry. The driver of the Ford was wearing a seatbel and sustained only minor injuries. The driver of the Toyota had also been wearing a seatbelt and was transported to Ocean Springs Hospital with what the MHP described as serious injuries. The passenger in the Toyota -- later identified as 24-year-old Kayla Danielle Pittman of Ocean Springs -- was not wearing a seatbelt and pronounced dead at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash. Pittman, according to her Facebook profile, as a native of Memphis, Tenn., and married to Chase Pittman. They are the parents of a young daughter. The Mississippi Highway Patrol says the crash remains under investigation. They can ask me to do anything and Ill do it. And I have done it, John Yolich told me. We need you to vacuum. Done. We need you to tell this dude whos making people fearful outside to move. Done. I do whatever they need. I love this place. It makes me a better human being. Haiti - FLASH : Jovenel Moise must make sacrifices Carl Murat Cantave, President of the Senate of the Republic invites President Jovenel Moise to make sacrifices to unblock the crisis surrounding the session around the presentation of the general policy statement of the Prime Minister named Jean Michel Lapin, and the two postponement of session of his general policy statement https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27730-haiti-flash-violence-in-the-senate-the-opposition-wins-a-2nd-victory-the-pm-ratification-postponed.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27715-haiti-politic-the-opposition-minority-forces-the-senate-to-postpone-the-ratification-meeting-of-the-pm.html by the action of 4 minority senators of the opposition. A little more than 3 weeks after the second continuation "sine die" the session is in a stalemate, speaking on a radio in the capital Monday, Carl Murat Cantave said that negotiations and discussions are ongoing with all Senate blocks including the group of 4 senators (G4) of the political opposition to set a date for the next sitting in the Senate, noting that discussions and harmonization of relations with these 4 senators are well under way. The President of the Upper House said that he had discussions with Head of State Jovenel Moise about the political crisis that is preventing the ratification from taking place, and he also invited President Moise to make sacrifices : Sacrifice "As Speaker of the Senate, I invite Jovenel Moise to do his best in the current situation. The head of the executive must make the necessary and useful final sacrifices to unblock the crisis." He also said he asked Jovenel Moise to write to the Senate office asking for a frank dialogue with all senators regardless of their political ideology. Threat Carl Murat Cantave, President of the Senate of the Republic has also threatened to close the parliament if the next sesion goes wrong "Either the sesion is carried out on high measures of institutional security, either on behalf of the office, I close the Parliament for its restructuring." HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Guyana : Signature of an inter-university cooperation agreement Saturday, May 25 at the Plaza Hotel (Champs de Mars), in the presence of Thomas Poirier, the representative of the French Ambassador to Haiti, Jean Elie Gilles the Rector of the Regional Public University (UPR) of the Southeast, signed a framework agreement for inter-university cooperation between 4 UPR and Antoine Primerose President of the University of Guyana. Signed for a period of four years, this agreement is a first in academic cooperation between Guyana, a department of France located in South America (Amazonia) and Haiti. Four universities in regions are concerned by this agreement: the Southern Public University in Les Cayes (UPSAC), the Public University of Artibonite in Gonaives (UPAG), the Northern Public University in Cap-Haitien (UPNCH) and the Public University of Nippes (UPNIP) which represents 11,000 students This agreement will make it possible to implement cooperation actions between these universities: development and participation in training programs, development and participation in joint research programs, facilitation of access to scientific knowledge (exchanges of documentation, publications, symposia ...), exchanges of teachers, researchers, technical and administrative staff according to the specific needs and mobility of students are some aspects taken into account within the framework of this inter-university partnership. Under the terms of the cooperation agreement, in order to carry out the planned actions, the partners will seek the necessary financing, in particular from national and international authorities and bodies for the development of higher education and inter-university cooperation. Narcissus Fievre, member of the cabinet of Pierre Josue Agenor Cadet, the Minister of National Education in charge of the UPR file, welcomes this agreement which is the culmination of 2 1/2 years of exchanges with officials of the University Guyana . Rector Jean Elie Gilles welcomed this agreement for the benefit of the university community considering that it is a win-win partnership where each party can enjoy the benefits. For President Antoine Primerose, this agreement opens new horizons for the University of Guyana. It will allow, among other things, better know Haiti where a strong Haitian community lives in Guyana and goes to university. He hopes to learn and share the experiences and expertise of his university especially in hybrid training. According to the data available and shared by other members of the delegation of the University of Guyana visiting Haiti, with 6 members, among the 24% of foreign students attending the University of Guyana, 60% are original Haitian. This makes it the largest representation of foreign nationals within this university which has a global population of about 4,000 students. HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Security : Arrest of a fugitive On Saturday, the fugitive Belony Mertil was captured by the Gonaives government commissioner at the time he was attending a meeting of the Alliance for a Society without Exclusion (ASE) party, with a view to integrating it. Recall that this alleged criminal who had beheaded his girlfriend, Mergeline Derisma, in 2004, in Marmelade, escaped the civil prison of Gonaives twice in 2004 and 2008, according to Me Serard Gazius. After his second escape in 2008, he moved to Jean Denis in Lower Artibonite where he changed his identity, got married and had children. The chief prosecutor informs that the alleged criminal has confessed and announces that he will rebuild his file to send him to the instruction cabinet. S/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Politic : The new Government still blocked by the opposition While the Gourdes continues to depreciate (91.7 Gourdes for 1 US dollar) and the international community suspends its direct budget support for lack of a legitimate Government for 2 months now, aggravating the socio-economic crisis in Haiti, the new Cabinet of 18 ministers remains stuck because of disagreements with the parliamentary opposition. In the Senate, after two failures of ratification of the Prime Minister lapin https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27730-haiti-flash-violence-in-the-senate-the-opposition-wins-a-2nd-victory-the-pm-ratification-postponed.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27715-haiti-politic-the-opposition-minority-forces-the-senate-to-postpone-the-ratification-meeting-of-the-pm.html , five days after the new presidential decree appointing 18 ministers for the same number of portfolios https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27798-haiti-flash-new-ministerial-cabinet-of-the-government-lapin-official.html one of the requests of the opposition senators, the latter stands on its positions and demands the withdrawal of the Cabinet of 7 Ministers from the Geant Government. In addition, the minority opposition of the Chamber of Deputies seems to align with their colleagues in the Senate and also demand the withdrawal of all the ministers renewed in the new Government. According to our sources, the parliamentary opposition plans to use all legal means to prevent what they call "the violation of the Constitution" which suggests that the ratification session could be again postponed. In the meantime, the approval of the budget law for fiscal year 2018-2019 remains suspended for ratification by the Prime Minister, 8 months after its entry into force, confirmed Jean Michel Silin, Director General of the Budget. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27807-haiti-flash-provocation-only-provokes-provocation-dixit-senator-beauplan.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27798-haiti-flash-new-ministerial-cabinet-of-the-government-lapin-official.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27791-haiti-politic-ministerial-cabinet-the-government-yields-to-the-opposition.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27775-haiti-politic-the-senate-majority-group-rejects-the-demands-of-the-4-senators-of-the-opposition.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27747-haiti-flash-the-4-senators-of-the-opposition-pose-their-conditions.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27738-haiti-flash-president-cantave-apologizes-for-the-hideous-spectacle-in-the-senate.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27730-haiti-flash-violence-in-the-senate-the-opposition-wins-a-2nd-victory-the-pm-ratification-postponed.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27715-haiti-politic-the-opposition-minority-forces-the-senate-to-postpone-the-ratification-meeting-of-the-pm.html SL/ HaitiLibre Brady Olson raises a flag in the bed of his truck Saturday in Havre prior to the annual Eagle Riders Poker Run held in support of the Wounded Warrior Project. Motorcycle riders and organizations rode through north-central Montana Saturday in the Seventh Annual Spring Opener Poker Run to raise money and support for the Montana Wounded Warrior Project. "We all worked as a team and it was well organized. We are hearing from other people that it was the best-organized ride they have been to, so this was really exciting this year," Havre Eagle Riders President Heather Sinclair said. She added that it was a great day and was glad to see people from all around come together to honor veterans. It did have a moment of tragedy itself, however. During the leg of the run on State Highway 223, one motorcyclist crashed into another and both motorcyclists were taken to Northern Montana Hospital. No information about their condition was available by printing deadline this morning, although one was reported Monday to be scheduled for surgery due to broken ribs and a punctured lung. It was the first crash in the seven years of the poker run. At the start of the run, the riders were given an envelope with the start of their poker hand. At every stop, riders receive a punch in the envelope saying what card was received at that stop and would be used to build the rider's final hand. Once the riders returned, cash prizes were given out to the highest hand, the second highest hand and the lowest hand. The entire ride covered roughly 170 miles before returning to Havre. All proceeds go to the Montana Wounded Warriors Project, providing hunting and fishing trips for combat veterans with councilors and nurses available to provide aid. This year, the ride raised more than $7,027.50 for the Wounded Warriors, with more than 82 registered participants and about 68 motorcycles. Sinclair said additional funds were donated that have not been counted yet. Sinclair said that this year, a number of riders couldn't make it because of the weather conditions or personal engagements elsewhere such as graduations. She added that the Second Annual Bike Rodeo was canceled Sunday due to the weather conditions. "It's because there are many veterans up on the Hi-Line, and Memorial Weekend, that's the time we need to stop and think of veterans who are still around and think of those who are no longer here around with us," she said. "Everybody has somebody who was in the service in their families." Sinclair added that the Eagle Riders try to make it better every year. In this part of north-central Montana everyone is very far apart from each other, and one of the goals for the ride is to get people from all over to celebrate together. "It's getting more popular," she said. Steve Stanford of Swift Current, Saskatchewan, Canada, a Canadian Army veteran, and Scott Schmidt of Red Deer, Saskatchewan, Canada, both attended the ride for the first time. Stanford said that he wanted to get involved in the ride after hearing about it because he wanted to support U.S. veterans. Regardless of where they serve, it is a brotherhood, he said. U.S. Army veteran Brady Olson, who has refurbished and decked out his personal truck - complete with a flag pole in the bed - to raise awareness for the Wounded Warrior project, said that he has been doing the run for a number of years. He added that the ride brings people together to honor veterans as well as provide living veterans with a place to converse and support each other. The cameraderie with like-minded people with like-minded experiences is a big part of the ride for him. "It's a special day to remember those who I've served and worked with," he said. "I've lost a few friends overseas and this is my way of keeping it in my head." See more about the Spring Opener Poker Run and the Havre Eagle Riders in Friday's Hi-Line Living Page. ShareBar Comments must be on-topic and civil in tone (with no name calling or personal attacks). Any promotional language or urls will be removed immediately. Your comment may be edited for clarity and length. Informal agreements had previously worked for Bryant when it came to Born & Raised. It was in fact how he was able to use the name in the first place. No-Li applied for a federal trademark on Born & Raised IPA in 2012, but was opposed by a chain of Las Vegas bars, also called Born and Raised, that had already secured rights to the name in the alcohol and beverage category. One of six books shortlisted for this years Man Booker International Prize, The Remainder is a stunning debut novel first published five years ago in Chile. Felipe roams the streets of Santiago, counting corpses in a bizarre attempt to square the number of dead with the number of graves including his fathers in the wake of Augusto Pinochets military dictatorship. Felipes only friend, Iquela, mourns the loss of her own family. Then comes a stranger, Paloma, whose missing mothers body prompts a cross-country trip through the Andes for the new threesome in a borrowed hearse filled with alcohol. A perfect companion book to last years Empty Set, another sparse and brilliant Latin American novel with an experimental structure from the same publisher. A lorry at the side of the road after the crash outside Tullamore in Co Offaly A five-year-old boy and a man in his 30s have died in a horrific head-on crash between a car and a lorry. Two other children were also injured, one of them critically. Emergency services said the scene of the crash outside Tullamore, Co Offaly, yesterday afternoon was one of "carnage". The 30-year-old driver of the car and a five-year-old boy both lost their lives. Two other children were also in the car, a girl and a boy. Last night the girl was said to be fighting for her life. She was airlifted to Crumlin Children's Hospital in Dublin and was said to be in a critical condition. She was due to undergo emergency surgery. The boy was taken by ambulance to the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore with serious injuries. The driver of the articulated lorry was also taken to the Tullamore hospital with minor injuries. A major emergency response operation was launched following the crash on the N80 Tullamore to Mountmellick Road at around 5pm. The scene of the crash, at Scrubb, Killeigh, was sealed off last night as garda forensic collision investigators carried out an examination. A man who lives about 150 metres from the crash site said: "I was at home around 5pm and I heard a bang. When I went outside I saw the driver (of the lorry) with a phone in his hand," he told the Herald last night. "I thought no more of it until a bystander said he thought there was a fatality." Despite a series of heavy rain showers throughout the day, the man said the weather was fine at the time of the accident. Although that particular stretch of road is not considered hazardous, the N80 tends to be very busy, especially between 5pm and 6pm. Fr Shane Crombie, a priest at the Church of the Assumption in Tullamore, said the tragic loss of life came as a shock to the local area last night. "Our prayers go to to the families. The whole community will be offering their prayers and thoughts to the families involved," he added. Local resident Rob Kelly, who lives just outside the village, said the news of the deaths came as a shock to locals and described it at a "tragedy". He said the stretch of road where the accident happened is very busy at rush hour. He said the accident is the first serious one of its kind in the area. Gardai have issued an appeal for anyone with information on the collision to contact Tullamore Garda Station on 057 9327600, or any garda station. The tragic deaths has brought the toll on Irish roads to eight in the month of May, and 62 so far this year, which is slightly higher than the same period last year. Former Tanaiste Joan Burton has said she is still traumatised by the highly charged Jobstown protest of 2014, in which she was trapped inside a car for three hours. Five years ago, the Labour Party TD had been in the suburb of Tallaght to attend a graduation ceremony at An Cosan Education Centre. Afterwards, Ms Burton and her then adviser, Karen O'Connell, were delayed in a garda jeep outside the building for three hours when the vehicle was surrounded by demonstrators protesting water charges. The vehicle was slowly able to move up Fortunestown Road, where the two were able to run to waiting garda cars. Six people, including Solidarity TD Paul Murphy, were charged with false imprisonment. Forgotten However, in 2017 the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court found them all not guilty. Five years on, Ms Burton said the incident was far from forgotten. "I think an awful lot of people remember [the protest] because an awful lot of people still mention it and mention it all the time," she told the Herald at the Citywest Convention Centre (inset right). "It was extremely traumatic so I don't think either of us will ever forget it. "However, I think a lot of people feel what happened was really wrong." Meanwhile, the former Labour leader added the reception on the doors during this election had been "very positive". "The amount of negativity has been significantly smaller than it was at the time of the last local elections," she said. "Labour was targeted particularly by the hard left, Sinn Fein and the Solidarity party in quite a vicious way. "It was because we're left-centre and from their revolutionary perspective their biggest goal is to try and destroy parties like ours." In Ms Burton's constituency of Fingal, Labour gained an extra two seats, taking six overall. Robert O'Donoghue, who returned to the campaign after open-heart surgery, topped the poll in Rush-Lusk. He said Labour had worked hard and the electorate recognised it. A Dublin man has been charged with having drugs with intent to supply others following the seizure of cannabis and cocaine with an estimated street value of more than 220,000. Mark Keogh (47), of Dunsink Green, Finglas, was arrested on Saturday. Gardai raided his home as part of an intelligence- led operation targeting organised crime and the sale and supply of drugs in the Finglas area. Cannabis herb, cannabis resin and cocaine were seized with an estimated street value of 221,000. A small amount of heroin, ecstasy and cigarettes were also seized with other drug paraphernalia. Mr Keogh appeared before Blanchardstown District Court yesterday charged with possessing cannabis and cocaine with intent to supply, as well as possession of cannabis, cocaine, heroin and ecstasy. Garda Shane Guinan, who said Mr Keogh made no reply to the charges, objected to bail on the basis of the seriousness of the charge and concern he might answer the charge. Trouble Mr Keogh's solicitor, Wayne Kenny, told Judge Paula Murphy his client has no previous convictions, no history of bench warrants, was in financial difficulties and having trouble paying his mortgage, has health difficulties and that his wife had died in 2016. The judge granted bail on condition Mr Keogh make a cash lodgment of 500 as well as supply an independent surety of 500, reside at his home, not apply for a passport, sign on at Finglas Garda Station on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. He must also have a mobile phone he can be contacted on by gardai and obey a curfew between 11pm and 6am. She remanded him in custody until the surety and cash elements are met and granted legal aid. He is to appear at Cloverhill court on Friday. Buses are to run through the night in Dublin, in a move hailed as "great news" for workers in the city. The proposals follow a pilot scheme in Cork which is judged to have benefited bars and restaurants there. In the capital, the 41 route, which runs between Lower Abbey Street and Swords, via Dublin Airport, has been earmarked as the first to offer additional services. Election North Dublin TD Noel Rock said the new service makes sense for shift workers. "This is a bread and butter issue I've been pursuing since my election," he said. "It makes sense for shift workers, for airport workers, for people coming to and from the airport, and for people who need to get to or from town late at night or early in the morning. "Dublin is a 24-hour city, and the airport is a 24-hour operation for shift workers. It makes absolute sense for shift workers in town and the airport, as well as residents in Santry, Whitehall and Beaumont, to introduce a 24-hour bus along this route." Anne Graham, chief executive of the National Transport Authority (NTA), said it is hoped that at least one 24-hour service will begin this year. "In Cork, the extra buses run every hour after midnight," she said. "But we've got to a stage where we might actually have to increase the frequency because some of those buses are actually operating full." The NTA has come under fire from some Dubliners for its BusConnects proposals, and Ms Graham admits it is quite a radical plan. "As a city we're probably providing a very high level of bus corridors and bus priority," she said. "But because our city has developed to being very low density, the bus is the most effective and most efficient means of providing services." Two Dublin men have been seriously injured in a car crash that killed an Irishman and his wife in New York State. An alleged drunk driver (58) has been arrested following the tragedy in the town of Clifton Park on Saturday afternoon. Co Mayo native John John Heneghan (33) and his American wife Caitlyn Holtzman (32) died after their car was hit by another vehicle while they were stopped at a traffic light. The three other people injured were named as Dubliners Luke O'Doherty (25) and Enda Crowley (31), along with Virginia native Julia Staples (24). Their injuries have been described as serious but not life-threatening. Mr O'Doherty is from Carpenterstown, Co Dublin, and is a keen hurler who had played for St Oliver Plunkett Eoghan Ruadh GAA in Ashtown. Mr Crowley hails from Templeogue and has been living in the US for a number of years. He is the vice-president of a construction company in a branch in New York, and in 2018 was named as one of New York's top young professionals. "Crowley leads by example when it comes to continuing education, having completed advanced training in both project and contract management at New York University," stated construction publication ENR New York. Homicide "He's also making a difference in his adopted city through extensive volunteer work that includes the iMentor organisation. In 2016, Crowley cycled 500 miles (900km) through southern Europe to raise money for the Make-a-Wish Foundation." The man arrested in connection with the incident has been named by police as Dickie R Winn (58), of Cohoes, New York. He has been charged with aggravated vehicular homicide and two counts of vehicular manslaughter as well as driving while intoxicated. Winn is due back in court tomorrow. Mr Heneghan, originally from Tourmakeady, Co Mayo, had been living and working in the New York area. A family member said: "We are heartbroken by the loss of John John and Caitlyn." Two sisters launched an "extremely nasty" attack on a young mother as she held her baby son, a court was told. Shauna (25) and Nicola (27) Culligan were involved in a feud with their victim over a man - who had been involved with both her and one of them. The woman pleaded for them not to attack her in front of her son - but they continued to rain blows on her. Shauna, of Heather Court, Stepaside Park, Dublin, pleaded guilty to assault and assault causing harm outside SuperValu in Balally shopping centre, Dublin, on November 18, 2016. Nicola of Granite Court, Stepaside Park, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm. Passing sentence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court yesterday, Judge Melanie Greally said there was a backdrop of "considerable hostility" which had spilled over into an "extremely nasty incident of violence". The judge said it remained a matter of concern that there was still "animosity and a grievance" there. Probation Judge Greally handed down a 12-month probation bond to each sister, ordering Nicola to do 240 hours' community service within that period in lieu of two years' imprisonment. Shauna was ordered to do 200 hours' community service, in lieu of 18 months in prison. Both were also ordered to have anger management awareness and intervention training. Garda Padraig McCormack told the court the injured party had just picked up her son when she saw Shauna Culligan running towards her. The accused grabbed the woman's head and punched her in the jaw. The woman ran to her car and put her baby in the back seat but the attack by both Culligans continued. When the baby started crying, Nicola Culligan shouted at it: "I don't give a f**k." The woman got out of the car carrying the baby and both Culligans continued to hit her before she escaped into the SuperValu. In a victim impact statement, the woman said she had been more afraid for her son than herself. She added that she still feels vulnerable and that threats against her have not stopped. "Mayor Daley said, 'Why do you want to go back to a company town, and, more importantly, work on a "project"'?" Bunch recalled in the 2014 interview. "And that convinced me. I said, 'I need to make it a museum from the day I (get there).' I got IBM to do the virtual museum online right away. I began to hire curators and educators to do publications. And then we did traveling exhibitions that went around the country. So Mayor Daley's notion of 'don't do a project' completely changed the way I thought about it, and it's really, in many ways, made the museum successful." JOHNSON CITY, Tenn.A Bristol, Tennessee, man who police said jumped from a third floor window has been charged with two counts of aggravated burglary and evading arrest. Victor Beaver, 56, was arrested Monday night when officers were called to downtown Johnson City to the John Sevier Center on the report of a man wandering the hallways and entering apartments. Responding officers said in a news release they located the man inside an apartment, and as officers entered, he jumped out a third floor window, landing on the first floors balcony roof. Officers took him into custody and transported to the Johnson City Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries. Beaver is being held at the Washington County Detention Center on $25,000 bail. 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. Please log in to keep reading. Enjoy unlimited articles at one of our lowest prices ever. I always think about that I was able to live a nice, long life, Anderson said. Fred died two years after graduation. Another one of Andersons classmates, Tom, who became a close friend and colleague, had a son, Patrick, a Navy SEAL who lost his life in 2012 in Afghanistan when his helicopter was brought down by enemy fire. Patrick was born in 1983, and all he wanted to do was be a Navy SEAL, Anderson said, adding that he enlisted in the Navy right after high school. He made several deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan and was doing a superb job. I think about him every single day, including Memorial Day. This was the first year the councils annual service was held on the government holiday rather than on the traditional Memorial Day, which is May 30, in hopes that more people would attend, since many have the day off work. Ball said the service will be held on the federal government holiday the last Monday in May next year for the same reason. Death leaves a heartache that no one can heal, Harvey said. Love leaves a memory that no one can steal. We know over a million people died in service to our country. We dont know them all, but we do owe them all. 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. Several weeks after a reporter refused to tell police the identity of a confidential news source, his house was raided by authorities. Armed with a warrant, they used a sledgehammer to break down the front gate of his home. They handcuffed the reporter, searched his house and office, and seized computers, cameras, hard drives, notes and other materials. This assault on the media did not occur, as one might assume, in some autocratic or Third World country where there are no First Amendment protections, but in San Francisco, a most liberal city in a most liberal state. And as troubling as these events are, what is even more confounding is the refusal by authorities to acknowledge they did anything wrong; instead, they sought to blame the reporter and criminalize legitimate newsgathering. 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. The document cites Federal Bureau of Prisons intelligence summaries, which claim that in March 2016, Lindh told a television news producer that he would continue to spread violent extremist Islam upon his release. The document does not identify the news reporter and Foreign Policy says there is no public record of Lindh participating in media interviews. That doesnt mean it didnt happen, but if the interview exists, now would be a good time to see it. Homegrown violent extremists have long been considered the most difficult to detect and monitor. Lindhs release is likely to give aid and comfort to potential terrorists already in the country and others seeking to enter the U.S. There is no indication Lindh has repented of his actions, much less changed his ideology or brand of Islamic extremism. Treason is a word that should be used only in cases where an American citizen betrays his country and goes over to the enemys side. Lindh fits that description. Washington County COVID positivity rate breaks record Weeks after a cyberattack knocked offline the Md. Department of Health's COVID dashboard, county-level data used to track the virus trickles back. In the second act, the characters even acknowledge the paucity of biography in the show. Start with historical facts? That is so boring. But if Fryes objective is to deliver more than a concert revue, some of those historical facts would in fact be fascinating and might also help us see the grit underneath the glamour in both women that allowed them to build such iconic careers, even in an era of overt racial discrimination and as the music industry changed its focus from jazz to pop to rock. As it is, the show approaches the biographical interludes dutifully, almost apologetically, as if its violating the privacy of its subjects by bringing these things up in the first place. Even though he was only on screen for a few minutes, Amabile parlayed his time on the ABC network show into a reality TV career. He appeared on Bachelor in Paradise, which follows former contestants of The Bachelor and The Bachelorette as they pair up in Mexico; and on Dancing with the Stars. He found love on Bachelor in Paradise and recently moved from Chicago to California to be with his girlfriend, Kendall Long. Among the thousands of small details that had to be minded, one production staffer was assigned to keep an eye on the state of Daenerys' blond locks. Clarke was also protective of Dany's mane. "That is still the most beautiful hair I will ever have on my head," Clarke says, looking at her braided wig while sitting in a makeup chair. Heritage Florida Jewish News is accepting nominations for the 2019 Heritage Human Service Award, which will be presented at the annual meeting of the Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando on Aug. 18, from 10 a.m. - noon. For more than 29 years, individuals who have made major, voluntary contributions of their talent, time, energy and effort to the Central Florida community have been honored with the selection and presentation of this award, said Jeff Gaeser, editor and publisher of the Heritage. Last years recipient was Roz Fuchs. Former recipients have included Nina Oppenheim (2013)), Howard Lefkowiwtz (2011), and Loren London (2014). According to Gaeser, Each recipient chose their own path, but made considerable and long-lasting contributions to the Jewish community. Nominees for the 2019 award are individuals who do not look for recognition, but perform tikkun olamrepairing the worldout of internal motivation. Nominations should be emailed to news@orlandoheritage.com with the subject Human Service Award, or typed on 8 1/2 x 11 paper and sent by mail to Heritage Florida Jewish News, Human Service Award, 207 OBrien Road, Suite 101, Fern Park, FL 32730. Included should be the name and phone number of the nominee, a documented list of his or her accomplishments, and the name and phone number of the nominator(s). The Heritage is accepting nominations until Friday, June 28. Jewish Academy of Orlando director of academics, Nikki Buyna, was recently accepted to Harvard Graduate School of Educations summer program titled Improving Schools: The Art of Leadership. In addition, she received a full school scholarship from The AVI CHAI Foundation to attend the program. I applied to the Harvard Graduate School of Educations Art of Leadership Program because I wanted the opportunity to share a room with a group of the best school leaders in the world, to have an opportunity to discuss best practices, and a chance to facilitate change within my own community and that of the American education system. I truly believe that there is so much more that we can do as educators and as leaders to make a difference for our students and our teachers! The AVI CHAI Foundation, one of the largest privately funded Jewish foundations in the United States, is committed to the perpetuation of the Jewish people, Judaism, and the centrality of the State of Israel to the Jewish people. AVI CHAI, in conjunction with Harvard, designed its program to better enable school leaders to apply the concepts learned during the Harvard program effectively in their schools. With AVI CHAI, Buyna will implement a year-long initiative at Jewish Academy of Orlando. Following the summer program, Buyna will implement a project of her choosing that addresses a particular aspect of school life directly related to JAOs mission. Her initial plan is to work with the foundation to develop a program for Jewish Academy of Orlando that connects positive education, character education, and Jewish values. Character education has always been a part of Jewish day school education, but there is a new urgency in todays world to make social-emotional wellness a priority and to truly live the values that are at the core of Judaism. As we build our program, our Judaic Studies curriculum and Jewish values will be the bedrock, creating a whole-school movement that embraces each individual and fosters growth. Assisting our students in understanding their own character strengths will help them improve relationships and develop empathy for others, better manage and overcome obstacles, develop problem-solving techniques, and reduce anxiety. It will develop strong leaders for our community, said Buyna. In addition to serving as JAOs director of academics, Buyna is an established thought-leader in education. She maintains a professional development website for educators http://www.educationalcheerleader.com and speaks at a variety of conferences and schools on topics such technology in the classroom, assessment and rubrics, creative lesson design, and experiential learning. This spring, she launched Parent Teacher Conference: The Podcast where she brings together teachers, administrators, and families for honest discourse about the most debated topics in education. In each episode, Buyna speaks with an expert, educator, or parent in hopes of bringing everyone to the table to support the social-emotional and academic needs of our children. The podcast is available on iTunes and Spotify. Buyna stated, I am passionate about leading changes in education, whether that be through improving best practices in innovative lesson design, assessment, and facilitation of professional development for teachers or by working to bring educators and families together. Head of school, Alan Rusonik added, We are so proud of Nikkis accomplishments and we are lucky to have her as part of our team at JAO. I am excited to learn from Nikkis experiences at Harvard and to implement her project that will help our school grow. Jewish Academy of Orlando serves Central Florida students of all faiths from grades kindergarten through fifth. The school delivers a whole-child education fostering academic excellence and character education rooted in Jewish values. Jewish Academy of Orlando is accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools. Beginning in fall of 2019, the school will offer a transitional kindergarten. To learn more about Jewish Academy of Orlando, please visit: jewishacademyorlando.org or follow the school on Facebook facebook.com/JewishAcademyOrlando. Those who are planning to go to Israel this year, consider scheduling flights between July 2 and Aug. 27. This is when EL AL will have once-a-week flights out of Orlando International Airport. This is a trial run to see if there is enough interest in the Orlando community to generate more flights out of OIA in the future. "It's a great beginning!" said Vicki Jaramillo, senior director, marketing & air service development at OIA. Jaramillo, who is based in Orlando, has over 25 years experience recruiting airlines all over the world. In the past, she had spoken with EL AL representatives who were planning to start flights out of Miami because of the large Jewish community. Why not Orlando? She asked. Then, serendipitously, things began to happen. Last January, Jaramillo visited her pulmonary doctor for her annual checkup. That doctor was Dr. Daniel Layish. In the course of their conversation, he asked her what she did for a living. After she explained, Layish asked her if it would ever be possible to recruit EL AL airlines to Orlando. Ironically, one week later EL AL called Jaramillo asking her about incentives to flying weekly nonstop flights from Orlando. To receive incentives, airlines have to fly a certain number of flights and EL AL couldn't fulfill that requirement. However there was still a possibility if enough interest could be demonstrated. Without hesitation, Jaramillo sent an email to Layish with this exciting news. His reply: "How can I help you?" After the two talked it over, Layish jumped on social media on Jan. 17, writing: "EL AL is exploring the possibility of flying a weekly nonstop flight this summer from Tel Aviv to Orlando International Airport. If these flights might be of interest to you, we need to let EL AL know that the Central Florida Jewish community would very much welcome the opportunity to fly nonstop from MCO to Tel Aviv this summer. "If interested, please send an email no later than Tuesday, Jan. 22 to Vicki Jaramillo at Orlando International Airport who is working with EL AL to secure these flights to MCO." Layish received 56 comments and had 36 shares that went on to a multitude of others. When Jaramillo arrived at her office the next morning and opened her email account, she was floored at the amount of emails she received-and kept receiving throughout the day-that expressed interest in EL AL flights out of Orlando. "This was a true grassroots movement and it helped," Jaramillo said. "It was so ironic the way things happened." Layish, with his desire to help and all those who responded to his post on social media made this trial possible. "It's one foot in the door!" Jaramillo exclaimed happily. This site uses cookies from Google to deliver its services, to personalize ads and to analyze traffic. Information about your use of this site is shared with Google. By using this site, you agree to its use of cookies. Learn more here Grand Prize Winner: Donna Rickey Blog Winners: A Song for her Enemies by Sherri Stewart: Mary Ann Hake Spies & Sweethearts by Linda Shenton Matchett: Connie Ruggles Sword of Trust by DebbieLynn Costello: Brenda Walters Justice for Julia by Donna Schlachter: Natalya Lakhno Party Prize winners: Sherri Stewarts Winners A Song for her Enemies: Angie Pool Bottle of Dutch Syrup: Carol Koch Alscheff Corrie ten Boom book: Deb Gramie Burgess Linda Shenton Matchetts winners: $5.00 gift card to online retailer or choice (Kobo, B&N, AppleBooks, Amazon): Karen Hadley A Bride for Seamus: Carol Osterhouse Wotring DebbieLynn Costellos winners: Sword of the Matchmaker: Melissa Planas Sword of Forgiveness: Paty Hinojosa Gomez Shattered Memories: Charlene Zall Capodice Sword of the Perfect Bride: Licha Haney Donna Schlachters winner: Leather Journal: Lisa Turley GIVEAWAY RULES Winners must leave their email address and will be notified by email and the winners name will be announced in the days comments. No one under 18 can enter our giveaways. No purchase is necessary. All winners have one week to claim their prize. USA shipping only. Offer void where prohibited. Odds of winning vary due to the number of entrants. Theres a new event venue in downtown Catawba prepared to host celebrations of all types. The Landmark 1896 is located on the ground floor of the Historic Sherrills Tobacco Company building, at 100 S Main Street. The 4,500-square-foot space was seldom used for events prior to April. Landmark executive and chief creative officer Gilda Caputo-Hansen discovered the building and owner Dina Griff while consulting with a North Carolina company in January. After collaborating with Griff, Hansen devised the venue vision and name. My philosophy with this place is I want this to be more of a community center. I want this used all the time, Hansen said. Hansen, 58, says the venue is capable of seating 200 people and hosting weddings, birthdays, showers, reunions, corporate gatherings and a variety of parties. To kick off business, Hansen will host community New York Pasta Night dinner parties once a month as well as a summer school for 6-8 grade students to learn about manners, bullying, safety and life skills in general. A Hickory man has been charged in connection with an assault and robbery in Lincolnton last week, according to a press release from the Lincoln County Sheriffs Office. Ethan Trent Roten, 18, is charged with felony common law robbery. He was arrested in Burke County on May 25. According to the release, the 34-year-old male victim from Taylorsville told investigators he met Roten on a social dating website. Soon after, they agreed to meet at around 4 a.m. on May 22 at the Lincoln County Walking Trail in the 2600 block of Laboratory Road. The victim told deputies that after he met Roten in the parking lot, they walked down the trail for about five minutes before going through a wooded area to the South Fork River. Then they sat on the river bank, talking until Roten needed to use the restroom, the release states. The victim told investigators Roten walked behind him and struck him on the left side of the face. The victim blacked out, and when he woke up, he saw Roten running down the path, the release states. According to the release, Roten is accused of taking the victims cap and headlight, $300 in cash and a vape pen and tubes. When she originally read for Lucille Bluth, the script didnt offer any descriptions. I think it just said, matriarch of this family. But I just had a take on it: A mother who loves her children but cannot show it and who is desperate to keep the lifestyle that she was accustomed to having. She reminded me of qualities in a lot of people. A lot of people that I knew. As actors, we call on all kinds of memories and an actors job is to observe, even if youre sitting on the subway and seeing what kinds of shoes people are wearing you can figure out what theyre like from that. The Letters to the Editor column has been full of anti-Trump rants over the past few days. These letters deride the president for the lies that he has told; he should be more presidential. What they are really saying is that he is not behaving like a politician. Well guess what he is not a politician. I, along with the millions of Trump supporters, am very glad that he is not a politician. Donald Trump is a businessman. He talks and acts like a businessman. This means he uses exaggeration, hyperbole, tough language, and misdirection to achieve his objectives. I have worked in large corporate environments. Donald Trump reminds me of the people who are successful in those environments. He could have continued to live his life as a businessman, but he has made a tremendous sacrifice to become our president. He has endured the non-stop onslaught of hate from Democrats, the mainstream media and even some Republicans. Despite the opposition, he has made progress on fulfilling many of his campaign promises. If the Democrats could remember what the real purpose of Congress is (to serve their constituents) and work with President Trump to improve the lives of Americans, we would all benefit. It was halfway into the tenure of the United Progressive Alliance-2. The RashtriyaSwayamsewak Sangh (RSS) was hobbled by accusations of Hindu terror and newspapers kept reporting that even the senior most leaders could be called for questioning. A top RSS functionary confided at the time that all efforts to create a Hindu vote were failing. The biggest hurdles were caste-based parties who made their respective castes feel empowered, thus making it attractive for people to vote as Yadavs, Kurmis, Jatavs etc but never as a Hindu. The furrows on his forehead indicated that they had not found a way to overcome the challenge. This RSS functionarys prayers seem to have been answered finally by Narendra Modi, at least in north and east India. Step by step, Modi has succeeded in creating an umbrella of the Hindu vote over the boxes of Yadav, Jatav, Kurmi, Bhumihar etc. How did Modi do it? Like all great ideas, this was simple. As the prime minister of the country, Modi kept ensuring throughout the past five years that there should be zero caste discrimination in the implementation and last mile delivery of government benefits. If this is easier said than done, it is because ours is a caste-ridden society and Panchayats, as well as local administrative units, have strong caste feelings. But if anybody could ensure proper implementation, it was a hard task master like Modi. This is the kind of governance which the Hindi heartland had not witnessed for decades. A year ago, I met Gomti Devi, a Yadav, in a village in Uttar Pradeshs Hardoi district. She found it unbelievable that a gas connection under the Ujjwala scheme could be given to her even though the leader giving it was a non-Yadav. She found it even more amazing that other women who got it belonged to all castes in that village. I dont know if Gomti and her family voted for the lotus symbol in this general election but I have a strong feeling that they did. Closer to this election, I spent a night in a remote village of Badaun Lok Sabha constituency with an Extremely Backward Caste family. The villagers felt emotionally attached to Mulayam Singhs family but added that disbursal of the Ujjwala, Saubhagya, toilet funds and Awas Yojana was without discrimination. They did not tell me their voting preference for 2019 but result shows that Mulayams nephew, Dharmendra Yadav, lost in his bastion, Badaun. In his victory address, Narendra Modi declared that there would be just two castes henceforth in the country. Those who are poor and those who can help the former out of poverty. That this casteless vote bank is also largely Hindu is what the RSS has been wanting to hear for a long time, but it never found the leader to implement it. Many have asked: what happens to Muslims and Christians? Before we jump to conclusions, it may be pointed out that the Modi government is committed to zero discrimination here too. While this is how a government should function, it also serves an interesting political purpose. When a poor Muslim or Christian household finds its living standards improving just like that of its Hindu neighbours, it may not be so easy for the political parties to sell them the hatred for Modi. This will reduce the tendency to vote for defeating Modi even if people actually refrain from pressing the lotus symbol. Pundits may argue that the voting pattern doesnt reflect this shift as yet, but it may be prudent to hold our analysis till we get more data from the booth level. This is a work in progress. When it starts showing results, the secular parties and their leaders may be in for a shock similar to the one that jolted them on May 23, 2019. Smita Mishra is an Adviser with Prasar Bharati The views expressed are personal Actor Amitabh Bachchan has paid a heartfelt tribute to veteran action director Veeru Devgan, who died in Mumbai on Monday. Amitabh wrote a long note on his blog, sharing a story from the sets of his 1971 film Reshma Aur Shera, on which Devgan worked as a stuntman. The legendary action master and director, Khanna Saheb was conducting a dummy rehearsal for the scenario which involved Sunil Dutt Saheb the leading man of the film, being beaten up by the negative character of the village, and he was demonstrating the action on a stand in for the leading man. The negative character was beating the leading man with a thin whip like stick, and the leading man was taking it all in and not retaliating. Khanna Saheb was using a stand in for the leading man and was renowned for his authenticity when conducting stunts. He was lashing the stand in, whip like and with each lash I could see the pain and agony on the stand ins face, but he continued to complete the scene dummy rehearsal, to perfection. The stand in getting the lashing was Veeru Devgan, he wrote in his post. Also read: Kajol breaks down in Aishwarya Rais arms at father-in-law Veeru Devgans funeral as Abhishek consoles her. Watch Devgan then went on to become a renowned action director himself and worked on more than 80 films including Amitabhs Laal Badshaah. He also directed Amitabh in his only directorial, Hindustan Ki Kasam. The film also starred his son Ajay Devgn, Manisha Koirala and Sushmita Sen. Amitabh also mentioned how he gave Bollywood a talented actor in Ajay. Veeru ji himself maturing on to becoming a Producer Director .. and most importantly raised, groomed and gave to the industry, another fine talent - Ajay Devgan, his son, he wrote in his post. A gentle caring human .. ready to help another in any situation. Warm, receptive and proud of his progeny Ajay who he used to bring along on set often when he was a kid, he added. Amitabh also mentioned that he held a minutes silence on the sets of his film Chehre when he heard the news of Veeru Devgns death. He had been ailing, but within control. His death came as a sudden shock on the sets of Chehre. I stopped work, made an announcement held a minutes silence to honour him and continued work. He would have wanted it that way, he wrote. He also shared pictures from the films sets and with Ajay from the funeral. Other actors including Aamir Khan, Akshay Kumar, Madhuri Dixit also expressed condolences at his death. Follow @htshowbiz for more Actor Amy Jackson seems to be thoroughly enjoying her pregnancy. She has been consistently posting pictures and video clips as she progresses with her pregnancy. Her most recent ones are from Marrakesh, Morocco. Amy put up a picture of herself from her hotel room mirror as her Instagram story. The picture also states that she has completed six months. In one of other pictures, she is wearing a deep green dress. However, a picture she shared three days back, shows her belly and her remarkably toned body, despite her advancing pregnancy. She can be seen standing at the balcony of her hotel room, soaking in some sunlight. Sharing it, Amy wrote: Goodmorning Paradise. On May 5, Amy threw a formal engagement bash for her friends in London. The actor is engaged to her boyfriend George Panayiotou. Images and videos from the bash showed Amy and Panayiotou having a good time. In one of the videos, the two were seen dancing to music. Amy shared several clips as Instagram stories and in one of them, she was heard saying: He put a ring on it! The actor also shared a photograph from the engagement revelry, and captioned it: The most unbelievable day celebrating our engagement. Thank you to all our amazing friends and family who made it so special so much love (Yayia doing the Greek traditions for us). Also read: Kajol breaks down in Aishwarya Rais arms at father-in-law Veeru Devgans funeral as Abhishek consoles her. Watch In March this year, the couple had revealed that she is expecting her first child with George. She shared a post on Instagram, and said how the couple cant wait to meet the little one. The 27-year-old actor made her acting debut with 2010 Tamil movie Madrasapattinam and has featured in several Telugu, Hindi and Kannada films apart from Tamil films. She was also seen in Bollywood films like Ekk Deewana Tha, Singh Is Bliing and Freaky Ali. (With IANS inputs) Follow @htshowbiz for more It may have been months since Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh got married but there social media PDA continues as before. It is Ranveer who comes up with flattering and naughty captions every time his wife shares a new photo. As Deepika shared a few new pictures promoting a yogurt brand she has invested in with the caption, Snack Time meet Yogurt...Yogurt meet Snack Time..., Ranveer decided to look beyond the product in question. You are a snack, he told Deepika in a comment. Not to be left behind, Deepika had a cheesy riposte ready, and you!?my cheesy dip!(drools)... On another photo of Deepika eating the yogurt, Ranveer wrote, Mujhe bhi khilao..apne haathon se... Their fans could not stop applauding the couple, asking for more. Keep up these conversations, wrote one, while other said that you are making me hungry. Earlier, as Deepika posted a few pictures on her Instagram page where she is seen wearing a yellow Sabyasachi dress with heavy-duty shoulder-duster earrings, Ranveer was quick to zero in. Nice lobes, he wrote. Deepika was decked up for an event in Mumbai on Sunday evening. She wore a bright yellow saree with large ruffles and paired it with a full sleeves blouse. She tied up her hair in a sleek bun and completed the look with a pair of golden sunglasses. Also read: Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh raise a toast to Cannes Amul topical, call it icing on the cake Sharing the pictures, Deepika wrote, Keep your face to the sun and you will never see the shadows, she captioned the pics. The actor was headed for a special conversation with designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee and Imran Ahmed of The Business of Fashion at Soho House in Mumbai. Deepika made heads turn as she walked the red carpet at the recently concluded 72nd Cannes Film Festival. While chose dashing red dress for her maiden appearance this year, she opted for a bold green lime dress for a later red carpet appearance at Cannes. Others who attended the festival included Priyanka Chopra, Kangana Ranaut, Sonam Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai and others. On the work front, Deepika was last seen in Padmaavat and is currently working on Meghna Guzars Chhapaak that is based on the real life story of acid attack survivor. Follow @htshowbiz for more A massive blaze engulfed an auto parts factory here on Tuesday, a fire officer said, adding that there were no reports of casualties. The fire broke out at 5:15 am at the factory located in West Delhis Peeragarhi area. The blaze that started out on the ground floor, quickly spread to the first and second floors. A total of 25 fire tenders were pressed into service and the blaze was doused at 7.45 a.m. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, Dharmpal Bhardwaj, the fire officer, told IANS. A Delhi-based woman who lost her life while rescuing her friends from drowning in Australia, a boy who saved a six-year-old from drowning in the Bawana canal, and a youth who rescued a child who fell in a drain in south Delhi were among the recipients of bravery awards on Tuesday. While Karan and Deepanshu, who use only their first names, received the Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak, Nitisha Negi posthumously received the Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak. On Tuesday, the Delhi government handed over the awards to Karan, Deepanshu and the relatives of Negi, the Delhi government said in a press statement. Karan, who was a minor in January 2017 when the incident happened, had rescued a boy who had fallen in a drain inside the premises of a park in south Delhis Malviya Nagar. Deepanshu too had rescued a six-year-old boy who had slipped while riding a bicycle and fell in the Bawana canal in April 2017. Negi, on the other hand, rescued her friends from drowning in the ocean during a trip to Adelaide in December 2017. She rescued several persons in the group but was swept away by a huge wave in the deep waters, the government said. Ending suspense on the list of international invitees for Narendra Modis swearing-in ceremony on May 30, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has revealed that Bimstec, or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, leaders along with the president of the Kyrgyz Republic and the prime minister of Mauritius have been invited. Mr Modis swearing-in ceremony in 2014 had leaders from Saarc (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) countries and Mauritius in attendance. While the inclusion of the Kyrgyz Republic was helped by the fact that the Central Asian country is the current chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the pivot from Saarc to Bimstec is pretty much on expected lines. Bimstec is now increasingly seen as Indias attempt at regional multilateralism without Pakistan, which has itself to blame for this exclusion. The latest bout of frustration in New Delhi started with the Kathmandu Saarcs summit in 2014. Pakistan vetoed connectivity agreements on the table when all other countries were ready to sign it. Pakistans intransigence stemmed from its fear of Indian goods overwhelming its markets and a desire to put obstacles in India-Afghanistan trade and connectivity. The next summit was to be hosted by Pakistan in 2016 but that never happened because of the Pakistan-sponsored terrorist attack in Uri in September. India pulled out of the summit and as did many other South Asian countries. In the Brics (a grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit that was hosted in Goa the next month, India preferred Bimstec over Saarc for an outreach summit. There are thus two big problems with Saarc and both have to do with Pakistan. The country drags its feet on connectivity agreements and what else can Saarc achieve if not trade and connectivity in one of the worlds least integrated regions economically? and has continued to remain the fountainhead of terrorism in the region. This does not mean all is fine with Bimstec. Experts point out that Bimstec suffers from a lack of human and financial resources while, at the same time, spreading itself too thin in trying to address a wide range of issues. The increased focus on this group was overdue but New Delhi has to realise that Pakistan cannot be blamed for Bimstecs underachievements. The credit or blame will entirely be Indias and hence it should leave no stone unturned to use the regional group to enhance trade and connectivity in the region. At least 14 people, including four members of a family, died and 42 others were taken ill after consuming spurious liquor in Uttar Pradeshs Barabanki district on Monday and Tuesday, local residents said. The district administration confirmed only 12 deaths, including the four members of a family in Raniganj village. Chief minister Yogi Adityanath ordered a high-level probe to look into all angles, including the possibility of a political conspiracy. He also announced an ex-gratia payment of ~2 lakh to the families of the dead and directed senior officials to ensure medical attention to all those who took ill after consuming the liquor. Officials said the dead and the survivors purchased two brands of country liquor, Power House and Windies, from an authorised shop of the excise department at Raniganj market in the Ramnagar area of Barabanki. After the deaths,excise officials sounded an alert about the two brands sold from the authorised excise department shops in the area. The police seized bottles of the same brands on 14 April in Barabanki and arrested two persons for distilling spurious liquor and supplying it to authorised shops with wrappers of the registered brands. Debunking the political conspiracy theory, Samajwadi Party leader Arvind Singh Gope accused the government of negligence. Uttar Pradesh chief secretary Anup Chandra Pandey directed the officials to examine the samples of these two brands at all shops in Barabanki as well as other parts of the state.He also formed a three-member committee, headed by excise commissioner P Guru Prasad, to probe the matter and submit a report in 48 hours. Excise minister Jai Pratap Singh said stringent action will be taken against those found guilty of selling tainted liquor. A district excise officer, an excise inspector and two policemen circle officer and inspector of Ramnagar area have been suspended. Police and excise officials have sealed the shop where liquor was sold after collecting samples of the alcohol. Police have arrested Sunil Kumar, a salesman at the liquor shop, and lodged a first information report (FIR) against shop owner Danveer Singh and two others, Pappu Jaiswal and Manish Singh. District officials said the death toll might rise as 32 more people were referred to the trauma centre of King Georges Medical University in Lucknow. According to reports, the most deaths, five, were reported from Raniganj; one death each was reported from the adjoining villages of Pipri Mahar, Kajiyapur, Umari, Loharanpuwa, Akohara, Telawari, Tatehra, Katehari and Amrai Bhund, all within Ramnagar police station limits. Chief medical officer Ramesh Chandra of Barabanki said a total of 42 people with suspected methyl alcohol poisoning reached the district hospital by Tuesday evening. The patients were examined by resident doctors and referred to Lucknow for further treatment, he said. Relatives and neighbours started pouring in at the house of Chhote Lal, who along with his three sons Ramesh Kumar (35), Mukesh Kumar (30) and Sonu (25) died after consuming the liquor. What is left to talk now? Sharab ne hamara sab le liya. Pehle andha kia fir jaan le li (Alcohol took everything from us. It blinded them first and then took their lives), said an inconsolable Ramvati, wife of Ramesh Kumar. Initial findings revealed that the spurious liquor was sold by the authorised shop after the addition of something to make it more potent, a senior police officer involved in the investigation said on condition of anonymity. He added that the investigation suggested most of the victims bought liquor from the same shop on two consecutive days, Sunday and Monday. Around 100 people had died in another hooch tragedy in two adjoining districts of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand in February this year. Less than two weeks later, more than 120 people died, mostly tea estate workers, after consuming a locally brewed liquor called sulai, which is made of jaggery and ethyl alcohol, in Golaghat and Jorhat districts of Assam. A 15-year-old boy was detained on Tuesday for allegedly raping a nine-month-old girl in Rajasthans Karauli district two days ago, police officials familiar with the matter said. According to Hindaun Government Hospitals principal medical officer, Dr Namo Narayan Meena, the toddler was brought to the hospital on Sunday night with injuries to her private parts, which suggests she was raped. Prima facie, it looked like a case of sexual assault so we asked the family to inform the police, he said, adding that the child is now out of danger. A team of medical personnel also conducted a test on the minor to establish rape, hospital authorities said. The incident is the latest in a long list of horrible crimes against children, which prompted the government to clear amendments to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) on December 28, 2018, providing for death penalty for aggravated assault. A total of 5,913 cases of crimes against children, including 3,897 cases of rape and 1,877 cases of sexual harassment, were reported in Rajasthan between January 2015 and December 2017, according to data by the home department. In its reply to the assembly, the department said Alwar reported the most number of child rape cases (85) during the period, followed by Udaipur (75), and Jaipur Rural (65). There has been a rise in crimes against juveniles, with 2,126 such cases registered in 2017 against 1,962 in 2016 and 1,825 in 2015. According to the FIR, the accused, who stays in the same locality as the childs family, took her away on Sunday on the pretext of playing with her and sexually assaulted her. We filed a case after her medical examination. The accused was detained on Tuesday, said Hindaun City SHO Roop Singh. Two militants were killed in an encounter with security forces in south Kashmirs Anantnag district on Tuesday, police said. The gunfight started after forces received an input about presence of militants following which a joint party of police, army and CRPF launched a search operation in Kachwan forest of Kokernag in Anantnag. During the search operation, the hiding terrorists fired on the search party. The firing was retaliated, leading to an encounter. In the ensuing encounter, 2 terrorists were killed and the bodies were retrieved from the site of encounter, a police spokesman said. The identities and affiliation of the slain militants was being ascertained. The search in the area continues, the spokesman said. Incriminating material, including arms and ammunition, was recovered from the site of encounter. The police said that it was a clean operation and no collateral damage took place during the exchange of fire. Last week on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday, security forces killed Kashmirs most wanted militant commander Zakir Musa, 25, who had formed Al Qaeda affiliate Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind, in south Kashmir. The killing had triggered protests and stone pelting in old city Srinagar and in Pulwama, prompting the administration to suspend mobile internet and impose curfew in parts of Valley for two days. Educational institutions had also been closed. On Wednesday, two Hizbul Mujahideen militants were killed in a gunfight with security forces in south Kashmirs Kulgam district. Four militants were killed on May 18 in two separate encounters in Pulwama and Baramulla districts while on May 16 in two more gunfights, security forces killed five militants in which two army men and two civilians also lost their lives. Post peaceful conduct of the Lok Sabha elections, the frequency of gunfights have increased in Kashmir valley, so has the number of militant deaths since May 10. There were just four encounters between the security forces and militants between April 11 when Kashmirs Baramulla voted in the first phase of general elections and May 6 when the polls ended in the Valley. Eight militants were killed in those four encounters. So far, 92 militants have been killed in various encounters with security forces across Kashmir this year. A mass defection of elected representatives from West Bengals ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) took place five days after the results of the Lok Sabha elections were declared, with two MLAs, 56 municipal councillors and three rural body representatives switching camps. A Left legislator, too, joined the BJP in the same event. The BJP won 18 and the Trinamool 22 of the states 42 Lok Sabha seats. The BJP won two and the TMC, 34, in 2014. BJP leader Mukul Roys legislator son, Subhrangshu Roy, was among the three legislators who crossed over. TMCs Tusharkanti Bhattacharya and CPMs Debendra Nath Roy were two others. With most of the councillors switching their political affiliation, three municipalities Kanchrapara, Halishahar, and Naihati will be now be controlled by the BJP. Currently, TMC controls these urban bodies. The party has also gained the support of the majority of the corporators at Bhatpara municipality, where a no-confidence motion will be brought in soon, BJP MP Arjun Singh said. Until now, not a single civic body was under the control of the BJP. People are fleeing the TMC to join the BJP. Many more will join in the coming weeks, Mukul Roy said at a press conference at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. A BJP leader who asked not to be named claimed at least six more TMC MLAs would switch to the BJP next week. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at an election rally in Hooghly last month that 40 MLAs from the TMC would join the BJP after the elections. We want her [Mamata Banerjee] government to continue till 2021, but if it falls due to her doings, then we cannot help it, BJP general secretary in charge of West Bengal Kailash Vijayvargiya said. Of Tuesdays defectors, while Subhranshu continued in TMC despite his father joining BJP in November 2017, Bhattacharya won in 2016 on a Congress ticket but joined the TMC last year. TMC leader Derek [OBrien] said that not a single corporator would desert TMC for BJP. Today, there are more than 50. There are three MLAs. Just like we had a seven-phase elections, there will be a seven-phase joining from TMC in the coming months, added Vijayvargiya. Vijayvargiya said that he could not rule out the Mamata Banerjee government losing majority in the state assembly before the scheduled elections in 2021. We want to win Bengal through the 2021 assembly elections. Our best wishes are with Mamata Banerjee till then. But if her MLAs start deserting the party in such numbers, we should not be blamed [for early fall of the government]. State food minister Jyoti Priya Mullick, who is also the partys North 24-Parganas district unit chief, tried to put up a brave face. We were once reduced to a party of one MP [in 2004], from where we rose to a 19-MP strong party [in 2009]. We are Mamata Banerjees army and under her leadership all damages will be reversed. Refuting allegations that the party was indulging in horse trading, BJP leader Roy, who was the convener of the partys Bengal Lok Sabha election management committee, said, If anybody indulged in horse trading, it is Mamata Banerjee. How else did the MLAs, who won on Congress tickets, become TMCs? Elections in more than half of Bengals civic bodies are due in 2020. A total of eight leaders from other parties joined the BJP in the run up to the LS polls in Bengal. They were Anupam Hazra and Saumitra Khan (MPs from TMC), TMC MLA Arjun Singh and TMC youth wing leaders Nishith Pramanik and Sankudeb Panda, CPI(M) MLA Khagen Murmu, Congress MLAs Dulal Bar and Sudip Mukherjee. Of these, the party nominated Hazra, Khan, Singh, Pramanik and Murmu for the elections. Saumitra Khan, Arjun Singh, Nishith Pramanik and Khagen Murmu won from Bishnupur, Barrackpore, Cooch Behar and Malda North LS constituencies respectively. Three other leaders who had joined BJP from other parties in 2018 Humanyun Kabir, Mafuza Khatun and Nilanjan Roy were also given Lok Sabha tickets but they lost. Two Trinamool Congress and one CPM legislator, along with 56 councillors from three civic bodies in West Bengal, joined the BJP on Tuesday, adding to the ruling partys troubles after a shocking performance in the Lok Sabha election. The three legislators who joined the BJP were Bijpurs TMC MLA Subhranshu Roy, who is also the son of BJP leader Mukul Roy, Bishnupurs Congress-turned-TMC MLA Tusharkanti Bhattacharya and Hemtabads Communist Party of India (Marxist) MLA Debendra Nath Roy. Subhranshu Roy is the son of Mukul Roy, the convenor of the BJPs election management cell in West Bengal, and Singh is the brother-in-law of Arjun Singh the newly elected BJP Lok Sabha MP from Barrackpore. Dutta was known as a close confidant of Mukul Roy. Like the elections were held in seven phases in West Bengal, joinings in BJP will also happen in seven phases. Today was just the first phase, said Kailash Vijavargiya, BJP national general secretary. WATCH: LS poll aftershock | TMC, Left in trouble as 3 MLAs, 60 councillors join BJP Subhranshu Roy was expelled on May 24, just a day after Lok Sabha election result was announced, for making anti-party comments by praising his father Mukul Roy and saying he single-handedly wrecked the TMC in the state. On Tuesday morning, Subhranshu Roy refused to speak to media. The BJPs landslide win in the parliamentary elections was also powered by its excellent showing in West Bengal. From two seats in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, its tally went up to 18 out of 42 in 2019 elections. In the process, the BJP also increased its vote share to 40.25 % in 2019. The ruling Trinamool won 22 seats in the Lok Sabha election this year, down from 34 in the general election in 2014. During his thanksgiving tour to his constutuency Political analysts will have to accept that beyond poll arithmetic, there is chemistry, the prime minister told the party workers. During a thank you visit to his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi on Monday, PM Modi, taking a dig at political pundits, said that analysts will have to accept that beyond poll arithmetic there is chemistry. Also read | On Day 3, Rahul Gandhi home buzzes with activity. Priyanka among visitors Some of the councillors, including the chairman of Halisahar municipality and vice-chairperson of Kanchrapara municipality, said while speaking to reporters that they have decided to join the BJP following in the steps of Subhranshu Roy. The manner in which he was expelled from the party just a day after Lok Sabha polls proves that there is no democracy in the Trinamool. So, we have come to Delhi to express our solidarity and join the BJP, said Halisahar Municipality chairperson Anshuman Roy. Anshuman Roy was one of the 13 councillors out of 23 from Halisahar municipality, who were in Delhi on Tuesday. Kancharapara municipality has 24 councillors, of whom 14 including vice-chairperson Makhan Singh, also went to Delhi on Tuesday. We have come to Delhi to join the BJP. There is no internal democracy in Trinamool. The dream with which we had been in Trinamool for years has been shattered, said Makhan Singh. Back in West Bengal, Tusharkanti Bhattacharya, who won from Bishnupur Assembly constituency on a Congress ticket in 2016, also talked on Tuesday about his decision to switch over to the BJP. Meanwhile, Trinamools North 24 Parganas president and state food and supplies minister Jyoti Priya Mallick called an emergency meeting on Tuesday afternoon with all party MLAs and civic body chiefs to chalk out a counter-strategy to arrest the growing strength of the BJP in the district. Also read | No time to lick wounds Rahul Gandhi best person to lead Congress: Shashi Tharoor SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A day after the key accused was held in the 4-year-old girls rape case here, the police on Monday arrested principal of a private school and two management members. Those arrested have been identified as Babita, principal of Shishu Vatika School and Tarsem Lal and Jiwan Jain, school management members. The police have arrested the three accused for trying to hush up the matter by not informing police about the incident despite being aware about it. Police are also probing the role of other management members, said senior superintendent of police (SSP) Sandeep Garg. Meanwhile, locals and women rights organisations held protest outside city police station while some protesters blocked Sangrur-Ludhiana road and shutdown markets. Private schools remained closed in the town. Dhuri MLA Dalvir Singh Goldy reached out to protesters and tried to pacify them, however, the protesters raised question for delay in action against school management and principal. We demand fast track hearing of the case and the guilty should be hanged for this crime. Police are not paying heed to our demand and are working under political pressure. We demand that all members of the school be arrested and the school should be shut, said Amandeep Deol, president, Istri Jagarti Manch. Girls are treated as second gender in our society. They are not even safe in their houses or schools. We will keep fighting for the justice until the accused are not punished, said Parmajit Kaur, another protester. Earlier, a student of LKG grade was raped on the premises of Shishu Vatika School at Dhuri town by the school bus conductor on Saturday. On Sunday, the police arrested accused Kamal, 27, a resident of Dhuri. He was produced in a local court on Monday. The court sent him on four-day police remand. He will be produced in court again on May 31, said police. The accused were booked under Sections 363 (kidnapping) and 376 (Punishment for rape) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act at city police station, Dhuri. Jailed Rashtriya Janata Dal ( RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, whose party has suffered a major setback in the recent general elections, is in for more trouble as another fodder scam case is fast catching him up. The 950 crore fodder scam, probed by the CBI, relates to fraudulent withdrawal of public funds from different government treasuries over fictitious spends on fodder and other expenses for cattle. Already convicted in four separate fodder scam cases, Prasad is facing trial in the last and fifth case related to fraudulent withdrawal of 139 crore from Ranchis Doranda treasury. The said case was registered in 1996 and involves 180 accused against whom charge sheets were filed. However, only 116 accused are currently facing trial, the rest 62 having died during the course of trial. Earlier, the court of special CBI judge Pradeep Kumar had concluded the examination of 585 prosecution witnesses and fixed May 27 to commence the next trial stage, in which the court records the statements of accused persons under Section 313 of the code of criminal procedure. The court had announced that it would record statements of four accused persons on a single day. On Monday, statements of the accused could not be recorded as the judge didnt hold court due to some administrative work. It is yet to fix a date to record statements of Lalu Prasad, said advocate Prabhat Kumar, representing the RJD chief. Prasad, who is currently undergoing treatment in custody here at the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), had reportedly skipped meals and medicines for two days after the Lok Sabha poll results were out. His health is presently stable. Prasads treating physician Dr Umesh Prasad said the RJD leader was counselled on Saturday night. Since Thursday, Prasad did not have his meals properly. He took breakfast reluctantly, and did not have food till dinner. During counselling, we told him that such a routine could aggravate his existing health ailments. Following this, he had lunch as per the schedule on Sunday, he said. The RJD leader is suffering from a number of ailments like diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver, chronic kidney failure (stage 3), prostate, hyperuricemia, kidney stone and perennial infection. He had also undergone heart valve replacement surgery at Asian Heart Institute, Mumbai. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Indian Air Forces (IAF) air strike on a terror base in Balakot on February 26 has established a new military norm that will lead to a change in Pakistans behaviour towards India, Indias senior-most military commander asserted on Monday. The Balakot air strike, followed by the proactive forward deployment by the three services have changed the discourse and the dialogue [vis-a-vis Pakistan]. In my view, thats the biggest change. It will bring a change in Pakistans behaviour, said Indian Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, who also holds the charge of chairman, chiefs of staff committee (COSC). The strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp was Indias response to the February 14 Pulwama suicide attack in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers were killed. Military tensions between India and Pakistan escalated following the strikes. Pakistan Air Force fighters made a failed attempt to bomb Indian military installations on February 27, leading to an aerial engagement along the Line of Control during which an Indian combat jet was shot down and its pilot captured and briefly detained by Pakistan. Soon after the Pulwama attack, the navy cut short a major exercise in the Indian Ocean region and swiftly redeployed its front-line assets to the north Arabian Sea for operations, even as the army and IAF were on high alert. The navys posturing was aimed to ensure that the adversary did not do anything. It worked, Lanba said. The buildup consisting of an aircraft carrier, nuclear-powered attack submarines, and scores of front-line warships and maritime aircraft put the Pakistan Navy on the back foot, forcing it to remain deployed near the Makran coast and not venture out in the open ocean. In a freewheeling conversation with Hindustan Times, Lanba spoke about the navys modernisation goals, Chinas growing footprint in the Indian Ocean Region and enhancing jointmanship by the creation of theatre commands in the coming years. Jointmanship refers to the three services working towards a common tactical or strategic goal. Lanba, who retires on May 31 after serving as chief for three years, said India was likely to hammer out a deal with the US government for 24 Lockheed Martin-Sikorsky MH-60 Romeo choppers later this year. The new multi-role helicopters, likely to cost nearly 13,000 crore, will be the mainstay of the navys anti-submarine/anti-ship warfare and airborne early warning capabilities in the coming decades. The navy is likely to induct the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier-I by 2021, the navy chief said. He also made a strong case for building the second Indigenous Aircraft Carrier or IAC-II, although the project would take more than a decade to materialise. INS Vikramaditya is the sole aircraft carrier the navy currently operates. There is a need for a third aircraft carrier so that two warships are always available to look after our expanding maritime interests that will only grow over time, he said. According to the navys plans, the carrier is likely to have a displacement of 65,000 tonnes, conventional propulsion, and will deploy the electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) offered by the US. Lanba said China was investing heavily to transform its navy into a blue-water force, building 10 to 12 ships on an average annually. The Chinese navy is there to stay in the Indian Ocean region. They are not going away. But we have adequate force levels to look after our maritime interests, he said. The navy chief said the divisions created to manage special operations, cyber warfare and space operations could eventually be converted into theatre commands. Theaterisation refers to placing specific units of the army, the navy and the air force under a Theatre Commander. Such commands will come under the operational control of an officer from any of the three services, depending on the function assigned to that command. The three services have agreed on a permanent chairman, COSC, what his role and responsibilities should be, and forwarded the proposal to the defence ministry. As of now, the chairmanship of the COSC rotates and the senior-most service chief holds the charge. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday named its former Lok Sabha MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa for the Rajya Sabha election in Assam, scheduled to be held on June 7. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Santiuse Kujur (both from the Congress) will complete their terms in the upper house next month, and the BJP-led alliance is expected to win both the seats. In 126-member Assam assembly, the BJP has 61 MLAs while its allies, the Asom Gana Parishad and the Bodoland Peoples Front, have 14 and 12 MLAs, respectively. The BJP, however, has not named a candidate for the second seat, and is expected to support the AGP candidate. The AGP had walked out of the Assam government in January this year, protesting against the BJPs position on the Citizenship Amendment Bill. It returned to the NDA in March. Speculations were rife that the BJP may back the Lok Janshakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswans bid to enter Assam, in return of leaving one Lok Sabha seat for the Janata Dal (United) in Bihar. Instead of seven lok Sabha seats in 2014, the LJP contested only six this time on assurance that Paswan will be sent to the Rajya Sabha. A BJP leader said Paswan may be fielded from some other state. Tasa, who belongs to the tea tribe community, was elected to the Lok Sabha from Jorhat in 2014, but the BJP denied him ticket from this seat. The BJP also named its candidates for the MLC elections, for one seat each in Bihar and Maharashtra. It has fielded Radha Mohan Sharma from Bihar and Pruthvi Raj Deshmukh from Maharashtra. 333. Thats the target for the Bharatiya Janata Party in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, according to the partys national secretary in charge of Andhra Pradesh and Tripura, Sunil Deodhar. The party won 282 seats in 2014 and 303 in 2019. But it wants even more. Our core mandala is from West Bengal to Tamil Nadu and to make inroads for 2024, if we have to reach our 333 mark, then we will have to focus on these states along the coast line, said the key strategist who has moved from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to the party. In an interview to Hindustan Times, Deodhar however points out that Mission 333 can be possible only if BJP overcomes the perception of being a party of and for Hindi speakers. He adds that he has started to learn Telugu, and that he mastered Bengali after being asked to help oversee the partys march in the East and the North East. If you want to get to the heart of things, you have to know the language, he said. In an attempt to increase its footprint in the southern states, the BJP will recast itself as a pan-Indian party and not a Hindi-speaking outfit in time for the next Lok Sabha election, senior functionaries said, adding that the party has begun preparation for strengthening its organisational structure in four of the five states in Southern India, which bucked the national trend by not voting for the party in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls. Also read | With Rahul Gandhi insisting on quitting, CWC likely to meet in four days for talks The BJP won 25 of the 28 seats in Karnataka and four of the 17 in Telenagana, but could not secure even one seat in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh. The idea, one of these functionaries said, is to deliver results similar to those in West Bengal , where its tally went from 2 to 18. We will build the party structure from scratch; panna pramukhs at the booth levels will be appointed, the party together with the RSS will identify issues that need to be highlighted. For now the focus will only be on the party and not building alliances, this person said. Other BJP leaders have a more nuanced take. The BJPs national general secretary Murlidhar Rao, who is in charge of Karnataka , channeled the Pime Ministers speech to say that it is about national ambition and regional aspiration. So linguistic communities identity will be balanced in Hindutva nationalism. The next target is the assembly polls in some of these states, he added. Deodhar said that BJPs success in Karnataka was because it was more of a mainstream state. Unlike the other states like Tamil Nadu and Telengana, the JD(S) didnt have a reach all over Karnataka, only certain areas, he added. . According to the party functionaries cited above, in the five southern states, the BJP will start holding meetings to discuss the way ahead. The first such is scheduled for Tuesday in Kerala. According to a BJP functionary from Kerala who asked not to be named, a change in guard in the state is unlikely, but the party will take stock on how to reclaim the vote bank that moved away from the CPIM to the Congress, in the aftermath of the Sabaraimala judgment that allowed women of all ages to enter the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. We paved the way for the change of guard after raising the Sabarimala issue, but unfortunately it was the Congress that swept the anti-CPIM vote. With 40 MLAs and past experience of being in power in the state they were better equipped to fight the CPIM, added this person. Also read | With invite to PM Modi oath-taking ceremony on May 30, India shifts focus on Bimstec In Kerala, where the BJPs ideological fount, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), runs the highest number of shakhas across the country, the party walked away with 12.9% of the total vote share but no seats. It expected to win at least three seats, including Thiruvananthapuram, from where the Congress Shashi Tharoor retained his seat. In Andhra Pradesh, the party received only 0.9% of the total votes polled, less than the NOTA percentage of 1.49%; three senior functionaries will be sent to the state to take stock. Deodhar , Rao, and Rajya Sabha MP GVL Narasimha are expected to tour the state to seek feedback from the office bearers and the candidates. In Telengana and Tamil Nadu, the party wants to focus on consolidating voters across castes. In Karnataka what worked for the party was consolidation of the voters who were hitherto divided on the basis of caste. Getting the support of the Lingayat (upper caste) and the non-dominant Other Backward Classes (OBC) was critical to the BJPs win, said a BJP leader from Tamil Nadu who asked not to be named. On whether the party will rethink on its alliance with the AIADMK, which won just one seat in the Lok Sabha (from 37 in 2014), this person said that the BJP has already indicated that no matter how strong a party gets we will work with alliance partners. Also read | In special message to Delhi, Naveen Patnaik invites PM Modi for oath event Bihar Pradesh Congress Committee (BPCC) chief Madan Mohan Jha and BPCC campaign committee chairman Akhilesh Prasad Singh have come in the firing line of some senior state leaders following the dismal performance of the party in the just concluded Lok Sabha elections. Former BPCC chiefs Anil Sharma and Chandan Bagchi said Jha should take moral responsibility for the humiliating defeat of the Congress nominees in the fray, while some others attacked Akhilesh Prasad Singh. Sharma said Jha should put in his papers and Congress should not to tie up with the RJD in Bihar for any future elections. Senior Congress leader and nominee for Samastipur LS seat, Ashok Kumar, said that the party should take action against Akhilesh Prasad Singh, who had ignored his responsibility to lead the partys campaign and remained confined to East Champaran, from where his son Akash Kumar, had contested. Akash, who contested on the RSLP symbol, lost to BJP veteran Radha Mohan Singh by a margin of about 2.50 lakh votes. Also Read | Rumblings in Rajasthan Cong, 2 ministers seek accountability for poll mess BPCC spokesman Harkhu Jha, however, defended the party president saying the resignation was not any solution. The party must brainstorm the causes of defeats and learn from its mistakes. Congress has won one seat, Kishanganj, in the most adverse scenario, he said. Some leaders also blamed AICC in-charge for Bihar, Shaktisinh Gohil, for surrendering potential seats to the RJD and other allies and selecting candidates with low winning probability. Six state Congress chiefs have already resigned after the partys poor show in the Lok Sabha elections. These are chiefs of UP, Odisha, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Punjab and Assam state units. Read | 3 more Congress chiefs send resignations to Rahul Gandhi, 6 have quit so far Also Read | In its zero hour, RJD leaders talk of cutting ties with Congress SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) on Tuesday directed the Karnataka government to provide 9.19 Thousand Million Cubic (TMC) water to neighbouring Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry from June 1 onwards. This was CWMAs third meeting since its formation in June last year and was held at New Delhi. During the meeting, the Tamil Nadu state government representatives highlighted the necessity of releasing 9.19 TMC of water to the lower riparian states from Karnataka. SK Prabhakar, chief engineer, public works department, Tamil Nadus state representative for CWMA cited the upcoming Kuruvai cultivation period and the depleting water resources in the state. After hearing Tamil Nadus contention, CWMA chairman Masood Hussain ordered Karnataka to release 9.19 TMC water. The Cauvery Water Management Authority has decided to release 9.19 thousand million cubics of water by Karnataka from the Biligundulu site for June this year to Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry UT, the Chairman said in his order. Reacting to the CWMA order, P R Pandian, Organiser, Tamil Nadu All Farmers Organising Committee welcomed it and urged the monitoring committee to enforce the same. We Tamil Nadu farmers welcome the order of the CWMA. Karnataka should adhere to the order. The Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee should monitor and enact the order as only then we can cultivate Kuruvai in a successful way, Pandian told HT. Due to the poor monsoon and non-arrival of Cauvery water on time, the sluice gates of the Mettur Dam which are supposed to be opened on June 12 every year for the Kuruvai cultivation have not been opened since 2011. With the CWMAs direction, the farmers of Tamil Nadu are looking at initiating Kuruvai cultivation. It might be recalled that the Central Government notified the Cauvery Water Management Scheme in June last year, inter alia, constituting the Cauvery Water Management Authority and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee to give effect to the decision of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal as modified by the Supreme Court vide its order dated February 16, 2018. Since Tamil Nadu is facing severe water groundwater depletion issue, the union government has issued a drought warning advisory for the southern state last week. Meanwhile, speaking to reporters about the order, Karnataka water resources minister DK Shivakumar said the state would respect the order. We have no problems with the authoritys order. We are expecting good inflow this year because of good rain. We were a little worried earlier but that has changed. If there is no water then we must follow the distress formula, he said. (Additional reporting by Vikram Gopal in Bengaluru) The dogs and the macaw were taken to local animal shelters. Police say several of the dogs appeared to have serious health issues. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday consulted a senior criminal lawyer in Kolkata to decide on the next step against former city police commissioner Rajeev Kumar, who has been accused of destroying crucial evidence related to the Saradha chit funds case, an official of the agency said speaking on the condition of anonymity. The CBI has also questioned Prabhakar Nath, the first investigating officer (IO) in the case. Nath was part of a special investigation team, headed by Rajeev Kumar, that was constituted by the West Bengal government in 2013 to probe the case. The CBI took over the case a year later. On Monday, Kumar had sent a letter to the CBI, seeking a weeks time to appear stating he was on leave. The CBI officer cited above said the agency was deliberating on whether to issue a fresh summons to Kumar or proceed to obtain an arrest warrant. On May 26, the CBI issued summons for Kumar to appear before it on Monday. Four officers of the economic offences wing had gone to Kumars official residential quarters at Park Street in south Kolkata and the criminal investigation department to serve the summons. He was not present in any of these places. Meanwhile, CBI officials said that Nath had access to key evidence and records. Nath was issued summons earlier too, but he ignored them. He was mainly questioned on who he reported to in the SIT and what specific instructions were given to him, said a second CBI officer. The CBI also summoned for questioning Dilip Hazra, a retired inspector, who was also a part of the SIT. However, he did not turn up on Tuesday. According to news agency PTI, the CBI also summoned Arnab Ghosh, the then Deputy Commissioner (detective department) of Bidhannagar Commissionerate The Congress on Tuesday denied reports that the partys highest decision making body, its Working Committee, was meeting soon amid party president Rahul Gandhis insistence on quitting following a numbing defeat in the Lok Sabha elections. There is no such plan, such reports are baseless, said KC Venugopal, general secretary in-charge of organisation and the person responsible for calling CWC meetings. Another senior Congress leader, not wishing to be named, also denied any move to call a CWC. Reeling under the impact of poll debacle, which saw Narendra Modi-led NDA storming to power with 352 seats, Rahul Gandhi insisted on quitting the post at the CWC meeting held on May 25 but the Committee rejected the offer in one voice and instead asked him to overhaul and restructure the organisation. Though the party rejected this suggestion, Gandhi is sticking to his stand amid a series of resignations by state unit chiefs. The CWC was followed by intense speculation about the change of guard in the grand old party and senior leader Ahmed Patel meeting Gandhi reportedly to persuade him not to press for his exit from the post. However, Patel later said that he had gone to meet Rahul for routine administrative work. I had sought time before the CWC to meet the Congress President to discuss routine administrative work. The meeting today was in that context. All other speculation is incorrect and baseless, Patel tweeted. Meanwhile, Congress party chiefs of Jharkhand, Assam and Punjab resigned in addition to those from Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Odisha. Karanataka Pradesh Campaign Committee chairman H. K. Patil has also resigned. Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jhakar, who was the sitting MP from Gurdaspur, sent his resignation to Congress President Rahul Gandhi taking moral responsibility for losing to actor Sunny Deol from the seat. The Congress has generally done well in Punjab winning eight of 13 seats. Also read | In special message to Delhi, Naveen Patnaik invites PM Modi for oath event Jharkhand Congress chief Ajoy Kumar has also tendered his resignation. The party won only one seat in the state where it had an alliance with the JMM, RJD and other parties. While the party won Singhbhum seat, it lost Khunti by only 1,445 votes and Lohardaga by 10,363 votes. The partys Assam unit chief Ripun Bora also wrote to Gandhi taking moral responsibility for the party not being able to increase its tally from its previous tally of three seats. He has said in his letter that Gandhi may choose to replace him. Maharashtra unit chief Ashok Chavan, Uttar Pradesh unit chief Raj Babbar, and Odisha Congress chief Niranjan Patnaik have already sent their resignations. Yogendra Misra, the district Congress chief in Amethi in Uttar Pradesh has also sent his resignation, owning moral responsibility for Rahul Gandhis defeat from Amethi. Also read | BJPs next target: 333 in 2024 Lok Sabha polls with focus on south The Delhi high court on Monday asked lobbyist Deepak Talwars son, Aditya Talwar, to appear before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case against him after the agency called him a fugitive. The ED made the submission while the court was hearing a plea of Wave Hospitality Ltd, challenging an agencys notice to it asking the company why the provisional attachment of its hotel in Aerocity area here should not be confirmed. Appearing for the ED, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said Aditya is connected with Wave Hospitality and since he is a fugitive from the law, the firms plea should not be entertained. The company is of Aditya Talwar. As on date he is a fugitive. He holds several passports, Mehta said. In March, the ED provisionally attached the Holiday Inn, worth over ~120 crore, in connection with a money laundering case against the Talwars. On Mehtas plea, the court said, Let him appear before the authorities The company contended that Aditya was neither one of its directors nor a shareholder. In a protest, farmers under the banner of Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), Haryana blockaded the National Highway (NH) 73, on Monday, near Kail village in Yamunanagar district. In 2013, the then Congress government, under Bhupinder Singh Hoodas leadership, had acquired 427 acres of land in 28 villages of the district for construction of a by-pass on the outskirts of the city, which connects NH-73 highway from Panchkula to Roorkee. The farmers held a protest as they have not received the pending amount of remuneration for their land. However, the government had decided to award 25 lakh per acre for village land, 30 lakh per acre for prime land and 35 lakh per acre for land which falls under municipal corporations jurisdiction. A farmer, Harpal Singh from Sudhal village in the district said the farmers had challenged the land acquisition price and went to the court. On December 16 last year, Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal intervened into the matter and asked the administration to provide a compensation of 42.5 lakh per acre. Since then, farmers have been protesting for the pending amount while the district administration is not paying heed to our demands, Singh added. He further added that they had given 11 days time to authorities to deposit the pending amount in the farmers account or they would gather on June 6 and start an indefinite agitation. Meanwhile, the district administration reached the spot and pacified protesting farmers, while farmers demanded a meeting with chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar. SDM Jagadhri Satish Kumar said farmers have lifted the dharna after a meeting with the administration. We are making an effort so that farmers get their remaining compensation amount at the earliest, he added. The Uttar Pradesh cabinet will meet in Lucknow on Tuesday for the first time after the Lok Sabha election results were declared last week and may pass a resolution congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the Bharatiya Janata Partys victory. The cabinet may also bid farewell to three ministers who were elected to the Lok Sabha. There are 14 vacancies in the Yogis council of ministers, including the one created by sacking of SBSP leader Om Prakash Rajbhar from the ministry last week. The exit of three ministers will bring down the strength of Yogis ministry to 43. It will pave the way for the first expansion of Yogis cabinet in the coming months. While minister for women welfare and tourism Rita Bahuguna Joshi (Allahabad), minister for animal husbandry SP Singh Baghel (Agra), and minister for khadi and village industry Satyadev Pachauri (Kanpur) were elected to the lower house of parliament, minister for cooperatives Mukut Bihari Verma lost the election in Ambedkar Nagar. The cabinet meeting will mark a shifting of Yogi governments focus back to governance after polls and key issues may be taken up for decision in the coming days. We cant say anything about political discussions (that may take place) at the cabinet meeting, said a senior officer. Cow protection rules The state cabinets agenda includes approval to Uttar Pradesh Cow Protection and Development of Cows Rules 2019, amendment to the Uttar Pradesh Sugarcane (Regulation of Supply and Purchase) Act 1953, amendment to Uttar Pradesh State Universities Act, 1973 and issues related to constriction of international airport at Jewar in Greater Noida region of Gautam Buddha Nagar district. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Pakistan has tried to downplay Indias decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modis swearing-in on Thursday, claiming that the Indian Prime Ministers internal politics do not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to Prime Minister Modis inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a part of the seven-member regional grouping. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Prime Minister Khan to Prime Minister Modis inauguration, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. His (Prime Minister Modis) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon), Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. Indias internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation, he said. Also read | Priyanka meets Rahul Gandhi as he stays firm on quitting as Congress chief Modi and Khan are scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan next month. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Prime Minister Modis swearing-in held on May 26 in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Khan after he won the general election last year and wrote a letter as well. Prime Minister Khan, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Mr Modi as a goodwill gesture, the Pakistani foreign minister said. Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region... the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tension, Qureshi said. Prime Minister Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmirs Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. (The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text, only the headline has been changed.) Also read | No time to lick wounds Rahul Gandhi best person to lead Congress: Shashi Tharoor Days after the Lok Sabha poll results, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath has moved swiftly to keep his flock of Congress MLAs together to thwart any poaching attempt by a resurgent BJP. Nath, whose five-month-old government is surviving on a wafer-thin majority, has asked each of his Cabinet colleague to look after at least five legislators to check any desertion to the opposition camp, a Congress leader said Monday. Apprehension about the governments stability has crept in the Congress after its humiliating defeat in the recently concluded general elections in Madhya Pradesh, where it won just one of the 29 parliamentary seats, conceding the rest to the BJP. The BJP last week wrote a letter to the governor, requesting her to convene a special session of the assembly for testing the Nath governments strength on the floor of the House. Nath ji has asked each of his 27 Cabinet colleague from his party to look after five legislators, the Congress leader told PTI. The ministers are going to act as the guardian to the legislators, he said. They will coordinate and ensure that development works in the constituencies of these MLAs are not hampered, the leader added. An Independent MLA, too, is part of Naths Cabinet. In the 2018 Assembly polls, the Congress had won 114 ofthe states 230 seats, two short of the majority mark of 116. The BJP had bagged 109 seats. The Nath government is backed by two BSP MLAs, one legislator of the SP and four Independent lawmakers. The Congress came to power in Madhya Pradesh barely six months ago after a wait of 15 years. The Congress leader said Nath Sunday asked ministers to look after MLAs after holding two meetings - one with his Cabinet colleagues and the other with all MLAs. At the meeting with Nath, the Congress MLAs aired their grievances related to ministers and the state bureaucracy, he said. The Chief Minister told the MLAs that he has asked his Cabinet colleagues to look into the issues raised by them, he said. Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargava of the BJP on May 20 wrote a letter to Governor Anandiben Patel, requesting her to convene a special session of the assembly to discuss the problems being faced by the state. According to Bhargava, the BJP will seek a division (voting) on financial matters in the House. If the Congress-led government fails to scrape through, it will collapse, he said Monday. Nath has accused the BJP of luring his partys MLAs with money and posts to topple his government, a charge denied by the main opposition party. In the wake of intelligence reports that Islamic State militants are likely to infiltrate the south Indian coast, Kerala has been put on high alert. Vigilante groups have been formed to beef up security, chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said. Last week, intelligence agencies had alerted the state that at least 15 IS militants had set off from the Sri Lankan coast in a fishing vessel and were reportedly heading either towards Kerala or Lakshadweep. Subsequently, coastal police tightened patrolling in the seas and advised all fishing vessels to carry proper identification documents. We are closely co-ordinating with various agencies like marine enforcement, fisheries department, coast guard, coastal police and fishermen. Coastal vigilante committees have been formed involving local people, said the CM in the assembly, adding there was no need for any panic. Vijayan said special intelligence wings had been formed in all 18 coastal police stations and the number of policemen increased. Kerala director-general of police Loknath Behra on Monday convened a meet of all agencies to review security measures. Punjab Ekta Party (PEP) president and rebel leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira on Monday unequivocally ruled out the possibility of joining the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), but was open to welcoming his erstwhile party into the Punjab Democratic Alliance (PDA). Khaira said he was not averse to the idea of joining hands with the AAP by having it as a constituent of the six-party alliance. The desperation they (AAP) showed to have a coalition with the Congress in parliamentary polls was a stumbling block. They may try to do this again for the assembly elections in Delhi in 2020. What will we do then? He (Mann) will have to clarify his stand as we are opposed to both Congress and AKalis, he told Hindustan Times. His remarks, which came a day after AAPs state unit chief and Sangrur MP Bhagwant Mann said he had phoned (rebel leaders) Khaira and Kharar MLA Kanwar Sandhu and told them to forget the past, are significant in view of the upcoming assembly bypolls in the state. Jalalabad and Phagwara seats will fall vacant as Sukhbir Badal and Som Prakash have got elected to the Lok Sabha. Also, the resignations of four AAP MLAs, including Khaira, from the membership of the state assembly and disqualification petition against another party legislator are pending before the speaker. Mann, in an interview to a TV channel on Sunday, had said that he also sought their support in identifying critical state-specific issues that could be raised in Lok Sabha. Khaira, while confirming the AAP state chiefs phone call, said that in the interview, Mann accused him of contesting from the Bathinda Lok Sabha seat to help Akali candidate Harsimrat Kaur Badal without any evidence. I challenge him to produce any evidence in support of his allegation, he said, terming the charge as false and malicious. On his partys future, the two-time Bholath MLA said his effort would be to bring three regional parties Bains Brothers Lok Insaaf Party, Dr Dharamvira Gandhis Nawan Punjab Party and PEP under one flag as their mission, aim and path were the same. Khaira, along with six of the 20 MLAs, had revolted against the AAP leadership in July 2018 after being removed from the post of leader of opposition and was later suspended for anti-party activities. He then put together the PDA, a coalition of six parties such as the Bahujan Samaj Party, Communist Party of India and LIP, pitching it as the third alternative. The alliance polled 10.6% votes against the AAPs 7.4%, but failed to win any seat. Khaira did not perform too well either, getting just 3.18% of the total votes polled, whereas Mann has retained his Sangrur Lok Sabha seat. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Capping a season of bitter electoral acrimony, West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said that she will try to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 30. We will attend the programme. There are certain ceremonial programmes where attending amounts to Constitutional courtesy. But there is only one day in between. We will try to attend, Mamata Banerjee said at the state secretariat. She also said that the invitation to attend the programme reached her on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekhar Rao and newly elected Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy have already decided to attend the oath-taking ceremony as per their offices. However, Odisha, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan chief ministers have received invitations but were yet to decide if they would attend or not. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders in Bengal welcomed Mamatas statement. If good sense prevails in her, we will welcome it, BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha said. The campaign for the Lok Sabha elections witnessed bitter exchanges between PM Narendra Modi and Mamata Banerjee. PM Modi alleged that West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee and her nephew Abhishek were downright extortionists. The Bengal chief minister, on the other hand hit back by prescribing sit-ups for him holding his ears. Words such as liar, fraud, thugs and thieves targeted at senior most leaders of political parties flew thick and fast from public rallies and personal attacks became very common. Incidentally, Mamata Banerjee did not attend the Prime Ministers swearing-in ceremony in May 2014. In West Bengal, too, when she was in the opposition, the Trinamool Congress chief never attended any programme of the state government. During her role as the opposition leader, she sat across the table with the ruling Marxists only twice -- once to discuss the impasse at Nandigram in 2007 and in 2008 when she held a meeting with chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee at the Raj Bhavan at the initiative of Gopal Krishna Gandhi, the then governor, to discuss the land crisis in Singur. The court's order leaves in a place a federal appeals court ruling that held that the Boyertown School District, about 45 miles northwest of Philadelphia, could continue to allow transgender students the choice of what facilities to use. Rajasthan BJP leaders on Tuesday added to the uncertainty surrounding the state Congress, with two ministers reportedly seeking accountability for the Lok Sabha poll debacle, by saying that several ruling party MLAs were unhappy and the government might fall. I have heard that the BSP MLAs here are unhappy and so are 20-25 Congress MLAs. I dont want to comment further on this, said Gyandev Ahuja, Rajasthan BJP vice president, according to news agency ANI, on the day CM Ashok Gehlot and Deputy CM Sachin Pilot met party president Rahul Gandhi to sort out the rumblings in the state unit. Another BJP leader Bhawani Singh Rajawat said the condition of Congress in the state is such that we dont need to work hard, Congress itself is making efforts to topple its own govt. I think if resignations continue the day is not far when Congress will become minority & govt might fall, ANI reported. Also read | Priyanka meets Rahul Gandhi as he stays firm on quitting as Congress chief The unrest in the party started after the May 23 Lok Sabha results in which PM Modi-led NDA stormed to power bagging 352 of the 542 LoK Sabha seats. For Congress it was a double blow as the party failed to cash in on the recent assembly wins in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh drawing a zero out of 25 in first and just one out of 29 in the second state. In Chhattisgarh, the party managed two of the 11 Lok Sabha seats. On Sunday evening, an alleged resignation of agriculture minister Lal Chand Kataria circulated on social media. In the letter on a plain paper, titled press release, it stated taking moral responsibility of the party defeat, resign from cabinet. However, the confirmation of the same could not be received from the CM or governors office. Also read | Bharatpur emerging as hub of illegal arms in Rajasthan: Police data Thereafter news in an English daily reported statements of cooperative minister Udai Lal Anjana and food and civil supply minister Ramesh Meena demanding introspection and accountability of the LS results. There should be deliberations and introspections. The results should not be taken lightly. What Gandhi has stated should not go in vain, so that the party does not suffer such a defeat in the future, Meena reportedly said. Whereas Anjana said the ticket distribution in Rajasthan was not up to the mark. On Monday, the BSP MLAs sought time to meet the governor but the appointment was withdrawn. The development led to speculations of BSP withdrawing support to the government. We have postponed the meeting with the governor as one of the MLA could not manage to be present, said Sandeep Kumar, BSP MLA from Tijara (Alwar). BSPs support to the Congress government is continuing and will continue, said BSP MLA Wajib Ali, adding, it was to be a courtesy meeting and some general issues were to be discussed with the governor, but was cancelled as one of the MLAs could not reach. A first-time parliamentarian from Odisha is making a splash on social media after his photograph emerged as he was packing his bags to come to Delhi. In this widely-shared photo, the 64-year-old is seen squatting in his bamboo and straw hut and packing his bag. Several Facebook and Twitter users started sharing details about how Sarangi had dedicated his whole life to social work and upliftment of common people. Identifying himself as Gyanaranjan Rout, a Facebook user said he was a supporter of Biju Janata Dal, but he liked Sarangi for his austere lifestyle. You are a bright prospect in the polluted world of politics, wrote another Facebook user Rajiv Nanda. Some also called him Odishas Modi. Pratap Sarangi is a first-time BJP MP from Odisha, who won from Balasore Lok Sabha constituency defeating his nearest BJD rival Rabindra Jena, industrialist-turned-politician and a former MP by over 12,000 votes. Sarangi lives in Nilagiri block of Balasore district and has been known in the state for his austere living. After graduating from Fakir Mohan College in Balasore, he wanted to become a monk in Ramkrishna Math, but the math encouraged him to do social work in his region. Sarangi returned to his village and started serving people. He first joined as a clerk in Nilagiri college but quit soon after he got associated with RSS and VHP. He won his first election in 2004 on a BJP ticket from Nilagiri. In 2009, he again won from Nilagiri as independent candidate. In 2014, however he was defeated by Rabindra Jena of BJD from Balasore Lok Sabha constituency. A bachelor, Sarangi lived with his mother till her death last year and is reported to spend a chunk of his MLA pension to fund education of some children in his constituency. Pratap Sarangi, who speaks fluent Sanskrit, is also credited with opening schools in tribal areas of Mayurbhanj and Balasore. On social media, there are already several photographs of the lawmaker using a cycle to commute in his village. In 2019 polls, he upgraded to an autorickshaw to campaign around. Not surprisingly, he was among the least resourceful of Lok Sabha candidates with a declared asset of 13 lakh. The richest was the BJD lawmaker Pinaki Mishra topped the list with 117 crore assets. BJP MPs Sangeeta Singhdeo and Nitesh Gangdeo came second and third in the asset list. Rahul Gandhi, who hasnt returned to the Congress headquarters after Saturdays big meet where he offered to quit, on Tuesday held back-to-back meetings at his 12, Tughlaq Lane, house in the national capital with Congress leaders including sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Apart from Priyanka Gandhi, a Congress leader said Rahul has also had separate meetings with senior Congress leader Randeep Surjewala and general secretary KC Venugopal. Rajasthan governments two top leaders, chief minister Ashok Gehlot and his deputy Sachin Pilot, are reported to have met Priyanka Gandhi at his brothers house. The string of meetings come 3 days after Gandhi took responsibility for the Congresss crushing defeat in the national elections at the Congress Working Committee on Saturday and told the partys top decision-making body to find a new party president because he intended to step down. The CWC unanimously rejected the resignation and authorised Rahul Gandhi to revamp the organisation but there have been multiple reports that Gandhi was holding on to his decision, for now. WATCH | Rahul Gandhis resignation rejected by Congress top decision-making body At a final tally of 52, the Congresss crushing defeat in the Lok Sabha elections had stunned the party and its boss Rahul Gandhi as well. Gandhi, 48, was the first to own up responsibility for the failure. But at the CWC, Gandhi also made it clear that a section of senior Congress leaders in Delhi and the states had let him and the party down, a point that Priyanka Gandhi also echoed when she spoke. Also read| Rahuls decision to quit suicidal walking into BJP trap: Lalu Prasad For two days, Rahul Gandhi who left the CWC meeting with Priyanka Gandhi - had cancelled all official engagements and yesterday only met two leaders, party treasurer Ahmed Patel and general secretary KC Venugopal. A Congress leader said the Tuesday meetings were evidence of a nuanced shift in Rahul Gandhi stand and a clear signal that he is holding charge. The Congress had yesterday issued a formal statement after KC Venugopals meeting with Rahul Gandhi that described speculation and rumour mongering in the media about the party uncalled for and unwarranted. Reports from Jaipur suggest that the chief minister and his deputy had been summoned over the election results in the state where the BJP won 24 out of 25 Lok Sabha seats. The Congress, which had formed the state government just 6 months ago but didnt win a single seat in the Lok Sabha, is also facing a crisis of sorts. Two ministers have called for fixing accountability of the Lok Sabha defeat, remarks that were seen as targeted at Ashok Gehlot who had spent considerable time and energy for his son Vaibhavs unsuccessful campaign from Jodhpur. There is also apprehension in the Congress that the BJP could attempt to bring down the government to force elections. On Tuesday, BJP lawmaker Bhawani Singh Rajawat said Congress leaders appeared to be working to topple its government. The condition of the Congress in the state is such that we dont need to work hard, he said, according to news agency ANI. Also read| No time to lick wounds Rahul best person to lead Congress: Shashi Tharoor On Rahul Gandhis reported insistence to quit, a Congress leader rejected the argument that it could end up hurting the party. It is an unequivocal rebuttal to the BJPs false narrative that the Congress was a dynastic party in which, the Gandhi family hankered for power. That Gandhi is still firm on his resignation suggests that this was not a perfunctory offer as was widely speculated when the first report of the resignation came in, a Congress leader said. In the end, he said, it would also help Gandhi emerge stronger within the party letting him take decisions on merits rather than be guided by the need to balance various pressure groups within the party. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Telangana Rashtra Samithi will continue to maintain its neutral stand in its relationship with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government at the Centre, party working president K T Rama Rao said on Tuesday. We have no love-hate relationship with the Centre. We shall continue to maintain our stand for the last five years, KTR, as Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Raos son is popularly known, said in an informal interaction with reporters. Stating that there was no invitation from Delhi for the TRS to join the NDA, he said the party would never compromise on fighting with the Centre on issues concerning Telangana. At the same time, there was no need for adopting any confrontationist approach. We shall maintain issue-based cordial relationship with the Centre, Rama Rao said. The TRS, which expected to win 16 out of 17 Lok Sabha seats in the state and play the role of kingmaker in Delhi in the event of a hung parliament, won nine seats, while the BJP recorded an impressive show by winning four seats, while the Congress won three. KTR said even if the TRS had won 16 seats, it would have done nothing in Delhi, as the BJP had registered landslide victory. Nine or 16, the figure hardly makes any difference for us now, he said. The TRS leader said the general elections in Telangana had witnessed a strange trend this time. We could get only nine seats, compared to 11 in 2014, though there was an increase of six per cent vote share for the party. But compared to the assembly elections held in December, the TRS got four lakh votes less, he said. He attributed the sudden rise in the fortunes of the BJP in Telangana to Prime Minister Narendra Modis popularity. It was only because of the Modi wave that the BJP could win four seats. In Adilabad, the BJP has no cadre base at all. Yet, it won the MP seat there, said the TRS leader. Refuting criticism on the partys performance in the polls, KTR said many factors contributed to the result. In Nizamabad (where his sister Kalvakuntla Kavitha lost), the Congress colluded with the BJP. The so-called farmers who contested against Kavitha were Congress and BJP workers. But one such defeat cannot demoralise us. We are fighters, he said. KTR pointed out that the BJP had won in the entire country and not just in Telangana. Big leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Deve Gowda also lost, he said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Pakistan has played down a decision by the Indian government to not invite Prime Minister Imran Khan to Thursdays swearing-in ceremony of his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, saying Indias internal politics did not permit the latter to extend an invitation, Dawn newspaper reported on Tuesday. His [Modis] entire focus [during the election campaign] was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative [soon], foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told a news channel. On Monday, Indian officials said there were no plans to invite Khan to PM Modis oath-taking ceremony. Hindustan Times reported that India was keen on leaders from BIMSTEC countries attending the event. This grouping excludes Pakistan. An Indian government statement said the leaders of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan all members of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation had been invited to Modis swearing-in. The governments decision to invite leaders of BIMSTEC nations for PM-elect Narendra Modis swearing-in ceremony on May 30 reflects Indias reluctance to engage with Pakistan. The external affairs ministry had said on Monday the invitations were in line with Indias focus on Neighbourhood First policy. In 2014, Modi had invited SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) leaders, including then Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif for his swearing-in ceremony, in a move that was seen by analysts as an initiative by India to reach out to neighbouring countries. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the February 14 Pulwama suicide attack, in which 40 troopers of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were killed. India has maintained that talks with Pakistan cannot be restarted until Islamabad deals with terror outfits operating on its soil. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah on Tuesday met Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi as the party and the government firmed up preparations for the swearing-in ceremony on Thursday evening. There was no official word on about what transpired at the four-hour-long meeting, but a BJP leader said the meeting was significant as names for ministerial berths in the new government were being finalised. The ministers, who are likely to be sworn in along with Modi, are likely to start receiving calls from Modi directly from Wednesday evening, according to people aware of the developments who asked not to be named. Also Read | Trump meet in US, Xi summit top Modi govts foreign push All chief ministers have been invited for the swearing-in ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, which will be held between 7pm and 8:30pm. Invitations were being sent to prominent opposition leaders as well, the people added. There has been much speculation about the possible induction of Shah into the new Modi cabinet. Shah won his first Lok Sabha election from Gandhinagar in Gujarat with a margin of over 5.57 lakh votes. According to the BJP constitution, Shah can have a third three-year term as the party chief. The BJP follows one man, one post policy. If Shah joins the government, he will have to quit the organisational post. In that case, J P Nadda is likely to replace Shah, according to the people cited above. Nadda, who was the health minister in the previous government, is a former leader of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, the students wing of BJPs ideological fountainhead, Rashtriya Swaymsevak Sangh. He has served as BJPs national general secretary and is also a member of the partys highest decision-making body, the parliamentary board. Also Read | In 100 days, NDA govt plans to roll out 1,000km of NH projects BJPs national general secretary, Bhupendra Yadav, who assisted Amit Shah in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat, is also in contention for the partys top job. The new council of ministers is expected to have more representatives from West Bengal, Odisha, and Telanaga, where the BJP made significant inroads in the April-May national polls. Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, where the BJP swept the elections, too, will have significant representations too. In Kolkata, West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee said she will attend the swearing-in ceremony. We will attend the programme. There are certain ceremonial programmes where attending amounts to Constitutional courtesy. But there is only one day in between. We will try to attend, Banerjee said. Banerjees confirmation coincided with the defection of two legislators, 56 municipal councillors and three rural body representatives from the TMC to BJP on Tuesday. Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekhar Rao and his Andhra Pradesh counterpart, Y S Jaganmohan Reddy, will also attend Modis oath-taking ceremony, their offices confirmed on Tuesday. Chief ministers of Congress-ruled Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan have received invitations but were yet to decide if they will attend or not. Also Read | Their product was Mr Modi. They marketed him very well: Shashi Tharoor According to an official in the Delhi government, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal too will attend the swearing-in ceremony. News agency Press Trust of India quoted unnamed sources and reported that Congress President Rahul Gandhi was among the opposition leaders being invited for Modis inauguration. Invitations were being sent to all the major regional and national political parties, it reported. The government separately released a statement saying several foreign nations had confirmed that their leaders and representatives will attend the ceremony. The following leaders have confirmed their participation at the swearing in ceremony of the Prime Minister: Mr Md Abdul Hamid, President of Bangladesh; Mr Maithripala Sirisena, President of Sri Lanka; Mr Sooronbay Jeenbekov, President of the Kyrgyz Republic; Mr U Win Myint, President of Myanmar; The Hon. Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Prime Minister of Mauritius; Rt Hon KP Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal; Dr Lotay Tshering, Prime Minister of Bhutan; and Mr Grisada Boonrach, Special Envoy of Thailand, a spokesperson said. . Jailed RJD leader Lalu Prasad has said that Congress president Rahul Gandhis decision to quit, following a demoralizing poll defeat, is suicidal, according to reports. The Congress won 52 of the 542 seats in the just-concluded Lok Sabha elections while the PM Modi-led NDA notched up 352 Rahuls offer to resign is suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India, the Rashtriya Janata Dal leader, who is serving a jail term in Ranchi in a fodder scam case, wrote in The Telegraph. Lalu Prasads RJD, currently headed by son Tejashwi, was decimated in Bihar with the party failing to get even one of the states 40 Lok Sabha seats. The party which contested on 19 seats in alliance with Congress, HAM(S), VIP and RLSP, posted its worst performance ever since its inception in 1997 after breaking out of the Janata Dal. WATCH | Rahul Gandhis resignation rejected by Congress top decision-making body The RJD leader in his analysis wrote that Rahul Gandhi quitting would amount to walking into the BJP trap. The moment someone beyond the Gandhi-Nehru family replaces Rahul, the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah brigade will paint the new leader as puppet remotely controlled by Rahul and Sonia Gandhiwhy should Rahul give such opportunity t his political detractors, Prasad wrote. He said the entire Opposition should take collective responsibility and introspect what went wrong. The reason for defeat is not far to seek, he added. Also read | CWC not meeting anytime soon, says Congress amid Rahul Gandhis insistence on quitting Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh has tweeted about a power cut at the Hyderabad airport and pointed to locked emergency doors, prompting authorities to apologise on Twitter. The 40-year-old actor tweeted two videos from the lounge of one of the busiest airports in the country, where he got stuck after the power went off. So we were at the Hyderabad Airport Lounge - suddenly the power goes off- the way in & out is an elevator that shuts down. The only exit door is locked in a chain (Incase of FIRE its a tragedy waiting to happen) (sic), Riteish Deshmukh tweeted along with two short videos. Security personnel refuses to give permission to open the door at the cost of passengers missing their flight. Wake up Hyderabad airport Authority - public exits cant be locked in case of emergencies, he wrote. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, which manages the operations, quickly responded to Riteishs tweet, saying in case of an emergency the glass doors could be broken. We regret the inconvenience caused. It was a minor technical snag which was resolved immediately. Please be rest assured that our Airport Terminals are safety compliant. In an event of any emergency, the glass doors can be broken. Passenger safety is of utmost importance to us (sic), RGIA said in reply to Riteish Deshmukhs tweet. Hi Riteish, thank you for your valuable observation. In the current set up, there is a manual lock - the key is placed in a box next to the glass door and can be accessed in case of an emergency, it said in another tweet. Twitter users also commented after watching the actors videos as some were alarmed at the situation and others said other airports in the country face the same issues. Thats not only in Hyderabad airport....I saw this kind of chain-locked door in Kolkata airport as well....and yes these doors are not meant to be unlocked in any circumstances!!! Subhadip tweeted. This is not in Hydrabad..it is mostly everywhere..atleast in my state also..they dont allow pessangers to exit Airport without informing & escorted by the staff. So they lock the exit gate. May be it will increase the operating cost if they keep extra staffs at Exit Door? sic) UB also said. Its India, not Europe. They dont know whatvto follow what not to follow. They dont do drill, no safety seminars, no professional attitude. They need some serious education in each fields (sic), another user said in response to the actors tweet. Some even advised the actor to stay calm. Global air passengers right expert Airhelp ranked the Hyderabad airport as the worlds eighth best airport in term of passenger experience earlier this year. Last year, it was named as the worlds number 1 airport by Montreal-based Airports Council International (ACI) in its Airport Service Quality (ASQ) survey. Puducherry lieutenant governor Kiran Bedi has approached the Supreme Court requesting it to maintain status quo as it existed prior to the April 30 Madras high court verdict that curtailed her administrative powers. Bedi has said, though the top court has already admitted her appeal against the high court order and issued notice on it, the bureaucrats in the Union Territory were being threatened with contempt action that is leading to administrative chaos there. A vacation bench led by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi agreed to give a hearing to Bedis application next week after solicitor general Tushar Mehta mentioned it on her behalf. The officers are in a quandary as to whether to implement the directions of the Honble High Court or otherwise. That the officers are being threatened of contempt action is leading to an administrative chaos, hence the urgency, the application stated. Rule of law is at peril under the threat of contempt, she said. LG Bedi has been at loggerheads with the Congress government in Puducherry, with the latter accusing her of taking unilateral decisions without consulting it. The National Capital Territory of Delhi, where the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is in power, had faced a similar situation and the case had reached the top court. The high court had on April 30 ruled that the elected government of the Union Territory generally assumes supremacy over the Lieutenant Governor, as it quashed two communications made by the ministry of home affairs in January and June 2017. The court found the two communiques of having undermined the power of the Legislative Assembly and elevated the power of the Administrator, though not exactly available under the applicable laws It seems all is not well in Rajasthan Congress as many political developments took place on Monday. While two ministers reportedly suggested fixing accountability of the Lok Sabha defeat and another allegedly resigning, chief minister Ashok Gehlot and state party president Sachin Pilot were called to New Delhi by Congress chief Rahul Gandhi to review the results. Also, two Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MLAs wanted to meet governor Kalyan Singh as they are reportedly not happy with the attitude of the government towards them. Gehlot and Pilot are in the national capital for LS results review meeting as the party chief is unhappy with the results, especially in states where there party has a Congress government. On Sunday evening, an alleged resignation of agriculture minister Lal Chand Kataria circulated on social media. In the letter on a plain paper, titled press release, it stated taking moral responsibility of the party defeat, resign from cabinet. However, the confirmation of the same could not be received from the CM or governors office. Thereafter news in an English daily reported statements of cooperative minister Udai Lal Anjana and food and civil supply minister Ramesh Meena demanding introspection and accountability of the LS results. There should be deliberations and introspections. The results should not be taken lightly. What Gandhi has stated should not go in vain, so that the party does not suffer such a defeat in the future, Meena reportedly said. Whereas Anjana said the ticket distribution in Rajasthan was not up to the mark. Also Read | 3 more Congress chiefs send resignations to Rahul Gandhi, 6 have quit so far Talking to news persons on Monday, Meena expressed concern over the bureaucracy. Wherever I had visited during the elections, the feedback received was that bureaucracy is overpowering and common man is not heard. In the coming time we will speak to the CM, deputy CM and national leadership that overpowering of bureaucracy should be stopped, common men and workers should be heard. He continued that the results should be introspected. The election was fought unitedly and it is everyones responsibility to introspect the results. Congress spokesperson and transport minister Pratap Singh said fixing accountability is up to party chief Rahul Gandhi, CM Gehlot and state chief Pilot. It is they who will fix the accountability and line up strategies for future. Migration is not an answer to defeat. The people have given us mandate and we will deliver. BJP should stop dreaming and making statements. Our leadership is capable and knows what has to be done and when, he said. Meanwhile, former mayor and Jaipur LS candidate, Jyoti Khandelwal, too expressed her disappointment of non-cooperation from few local leaders in the elections, and demanded a probe, alleging weak booth management in some city areas. On Monday, the BSP MLAs sought time to meet the governor but the appointment was withdrawn. The development led to speculations of BSP withdrawing support to the government. We have postponed the meeting with the governor as one of the MLA could not manage to be present, said Sandeep Kumar, BSP MLA from Tijara (Alwar). BSPs support to the Congress government is continuing and will continue, said BSP MLA Wajib Ali, adding, it was to be a courtesy meeting and some general issues were to be discussed with the governor, but was cancelled as one of the MLAs could not reach. However, sources in the BSP claimed that the MLAs are unhappy with the governments attitude toward them. The party MLAs arent getting the treatment given to Congress MLAs, like the officials arent cooperating and their desires not being entertained while posting officials in their assembly constituency, said a BSP leader. The meeting was cancelled as the people in the government assured to redress their grievances, he added. Klosa refused to take refuge in the basement because she was scared of spiders, the daughter said. Klosa raised her two daughters as a single mother, Peek said, and had always been a hard worker who had just recently retired after working as an inspector at an electronic manufacturing company in neighboring Kirkland. A cancer survivor, Klosa would drive herself to chemotherapy and then drive back to work, Peek said. "She was such an amazing woman. She was my strength," Peek said. "And I loved her. I still love her." Peek stood by the edge of the exposed basement of her mother's house, where her uncle was searching for important paperwork. The mother and daughter had talked on the phone Thursday morning, Peek said, and nothing was left unsaid. "She told me that she loved me," Peek said, "and that she didn't know what she would do without me." Peek wiped away tears with the sleeve of her yellow sweater. "My mother raised me to be strong," she said. "She'd probably kick my butt if she knew I was crying." And then she howled with laughter once again, a loud and defiant sound that carried across the field of debris. Earlier, Schultz and Peek hugged one another and fondly remembered the strong-willed women they'd lost. "I know they're both in heaven," Schultz said, "because the devil couldn't put up with both of them at the same time." gtrotter@tribpub.com Three days after Congress president Rahul Gandhi announced his decision to quit following partys Lok Sabha poll debacle, a battery of leaders urged him not to do so, prominent among them being DMKs Stalin. Gandhis decision to step down as party chief was announced at the CWC meeting held after the party could manage just 52 of the 542 Lok Sabha seats with the PM Modi-led NDA storming to power with 352 seats. On Tuesday, the Congresss Tamil Nadu ally and DMK president MK Stalin had a telephonic conversation with Gandhi and requested him not to step down from presidential post, news agency ANI reported. Stalin has been a supporter of Rahul Gandhi from even before the Lok Sabha elections. He was the first Congress ally to project Gandhi as the PM candidate way back in December 2018. WATCH | Rahul Gandhis resignation rejected by Congress top decision-making body Even a day before the votes were to be counted, the DMK leader reiterated that he believed Congress president Rahul Gandhi would become Prime Minister and his own party would capture power in Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu is one of the few states where the Congress fared well with ally DMK winning 23 and the Congress 8 of Tamil Nadus 29 Lok Sabha seats. Both had not won any seats in 2014. Another Tamil leader, actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth also said that there was no need for the Congres president to resign, reports ANI. He (Rahul Gandhi) should not resign. He should prove he can do it. In democracy the opposition should also be strong, Rajinikanth, who announced in 2017 his decision to join politics but is yet to formalise the political plunge. Jailed RJD leader Lalu Prasad also opined that by resigning Gandhi would walk into the BJP trap. In an analysis published in The Telegraph, the leader serving jail term in a fodder scam case, said: Rahuls offer to resign is suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India. Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram lawmaker Shashi Tharoor felt that Gandhi was the right person to lead the party and that the Congress has no time to sit and lick its wounds as it must immediately pick itself up for the upcoming state elections, PTI reported. Tharoor, who scored an electoral hat-trick by winning from the Thiruvanathapuram seat in the Lok Sabha polls, also said Gandhi-Nehru family will continue to command great clout and respect within the party, on the basis of the tremendous contributions it has made in shaping and guiding the party since Independence. Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader MK Stalin and veteran actor and aspiring politician Rajinikanth on Tuesday urged Congress president Rahul Gandhi not to resign as the party chief following the electoral setback in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections. After the Lok Sabha election results were declared, the Congresss major ally and DMK leader Stalin who had proposed Rahul Gandhis name as Prime Minister in case the UPA came to power, spoke with the Congress president over the phone. DMK president Stalin has spoken with Rahul Gandhi over the phone. During the conversation, Stalin asked Rahul not to resign from the Congress presidents post, the DMK said in a statement. Stalin further pointed out that Rahul had won the hearts of the people, according to the release. Though your party has failed in consolidating votes, you have won the hearts of Indians. So, you should give up the idea of resigning from the Congress presidents post, Stalin said to Rahul Gandhi, according to the DMK. Stalin, apparently, also spoke to UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi. The DMK, however, did not say what Rahuls response was to Stalins request. Veteran actor Rajinikanth also asked Rahul Gandhi not to step down from the post of the Congress president. Rahul should stand firm. He should prove that he can do anything. Also, a strong opposition is necessary for a democratic country. So, I request Rahul to lead a strong opposition, Rajinikanth told the media. He further said that non-coordination within the Congress party was the reason for their defeat. I wont say Rahul lacks in leadership. The Congress party is a big and age-old party. Plenty of senior office bearers are there in the party. As a youngster, it is difficult to handle senior leaders. When I saw the results, I observed that many seniors in the party have not (fully) cooperated (with) Rahul. I also feel that they have not worked well, Rajinikanth said. S Vijayadharani, Congress MLA from Vilavancode assembly seat in Tamil Nadu and national Mahila Congress General Secretary concurred with Rajinikanths assessment for Congresss dismal performance. I agree with Rajinikanth. Rahul Gandhi has the ability to lead the party. But, the seniors are putting hurdles in the way of the partys empowerment. Senior leaders should co-operate with Rahul to revive the party. They should not pressurize him to get party posts and seats for them and their family members. Fresh blood should be infused into the Congress party. For instance in the BJP, LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi have given way to their juniors. Therefore, the BJP has done well, she told HT. Speaking about the BJPs failure to register success in Tamil Nadu, Rajinikanth said unlike in the north, there was an anti-Modi wave in Tamil Nadu. Though the other parts of India witnessed a pro-Modi wave, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh results have shown an anti-Modi wave in their region. Due to NEET, hydrocarbon extraction issue, Thoothukkudi police firing incident and of course because of the oppositions power-packed campaigns, the anti-Modi mindset was high in Tamil Nadu. So, the opposition have swept the seats, Rajinikanth said. The actor-cum-politician also praised his celluloid rival and Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan for garnering around 4% of the vote share. It is not too easy to get some 4% votes within 14 months of launching the party. I congratulate my friend Kamal for achieving this, Rajinikanth said. Speaking about his own political plans, he said that he had already announced that he would enter the political fray when the assembly elections are announced in Tamil Nadu. Rajinikanth who announced his political entry on December 31, 2017, is likely to convert his Rajini Fans Association called Rajini Makkal Mandram into a political party before the Assembly elections in the state. Suspense prevails over Congress president Rahul Gandhis future at the helm of the 133-year-old party as colleagues and allies sought to persuade him on Tuesday to continue to steer the organisation, struggling to come to terms with its crushing defeat in the 17th general election. On Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi met sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala and general secretary in-charge of organisation KC Venugopal at his 12, Tughlaq Lane residence.While Surjewala was there for his daily briefing, Venugopal is learned to have discussed the latest political developments in Karnataka with Gandhi. Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot and his deputy Sachin Pilot separately met Priyanka Gandhi at Rahul Gandhis home and discussed the Lok Sabha election results. They could not meet the Congress president. Rahul Gandhi, along with Priyanka Gandhi, then drove to United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhis 10, Janpath residence for lunch. Later, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi were back in 12, Tughlaq Lane, where they held a closed-door meeting till 6.30pm, details of which were not known. Rahul Gandhi is upset over the partys dismal performance in the Lok Sabha elections in which the Congress managed to win just 52 seats compared to 303 seats for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Rahul Gandhis insistence on quitting has brought to the fore a clear divide in the Congress, with young leaders arguing that he is unlikely to relent but seniors expressing the hope that he will continue to lead the party in the absence of an alternative. A Congress functionary rejected the argument that a prolonged crisis could end up hurting the grand old party. It is an unequivocal rebuttal to the BJPs false narrative that the Congress was a dynastic party in which, the Gandhi family hankered for power. That Gandhi is still firm on giving up his post and wants a non-Gandhi take over the reins suggest that this was not a perfunctory offer as was widely speculated when the first report of the resignation came in, he said. In the end if Gandhi relents, it would also help him emerge stronger within the party, letting him take decisions on merits rather than be guided by the need to balance various pressure groups within the party, the leader said on condition of anonymity. Officially, the Congress maintained that there was no crisis and that the Congress Working Committee (CWC) resolution rejecting Rahul Gandhis resignation offer stands as of now. There is no crisis going on in the party except in the media, Surjewala said after the meeting. Addressing a news conference at the party headquarters in Delhi, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said, There is a CWC resolution that you have been apprised of several times. I think let it rest there. Let us not indulge in any speculation. This resolution of CWC stands and that is where we are. The fractious CWC meeting on Saturday saw Gandhi slamming some veterans for placing the interests of their sons above the party in the Lok Sabha elections. Gandhi also said that some leaders were unable to win elections from their strongholds, and suggested some were busy hankering for posts. At the meeting, a visibly upset Gandhi offered his resignation and asked the CWC to elect a new chief but the partys highest decision-making body unanimously rejected the offer and passed a resolution authorising him to revamp the organisation. The party had on Monday issued a formal statement after Venugopal and Ahmed Patel met Gandhi, describing as uncalled for and unwarranted speculation in the media about the party in the aftermath of the CWC meeting. Priyanka Gandhis meetings with Gehlot and Pilot on Tuesday came amid rumblings of discontent in the party organisation in the state, where it formed government in December but failed to win even one of the 25 Lok Sabha seats. In Jaipur, officials considered close to Gehlot said he had spent only a fraction of his time to campaign in Jodhpur for his son Vaibhav Gehlot, seeking to counter allegations that his pre-occupation with his sons campaign contributed to the Congresss loss in the state. The officials, seeking anonymity, provided a list of public meetings addressed by Gehlot in Rajasthan during the Lok Sabha election campaign to claim that he addressed 104 rallies, of which only 14 were in his sons constituency, Jodhpur. Gehlot participated in the filing of nomination papers by 22 of the 25 Congress Lok Sabha candidates and visited every Lok Sabha constituency at least thrice, they said. Meanwhile, reports of a deepening rift between the Congress and its coalition partner in Karnataka came in from Bengaluru. A battery of leaders of alliance partners also urged Rahul Gandhi not to resign, prominent among them being Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam chief MK Stalin and Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Lalu Prasad who said the move could be suicidal and amount to falling into the BJPs trap. Stalin called Rahul Gandhi on the phone to urge him to stay put at the helm of the Congress. Though your party has failed in consolidating votes, you have won the hearts of Indians. So, you should give up the idea of resigning from the Congress presidents post, Stalin said to Rahul Gandhi, according to a DMK statement. Another Tamil leader, actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth also said that there was no need for the Congress president to resign He (Rahul Gandhi) should not resign. He should prove he can do it. In democracy the opposition should also be strong, Rajinikanth, who announced in 2017 his decision to join politics, but is yet to take the electoral plunge, said. Jailed RJD leader Lalu Prasad also said that by resigning Gandhi would walk into the BJP trap. In an analysis published in The Telegraph newspaper, Prasad, serving a jail term in a fodder scam case, said: Rahuls offer to resign is suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India. The moment someone beyond the Gandhi-Nehru family replaces Rahul, the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah brigade will paint the new leader as puppet remotely controlled by Rahul and Sonia Gandhiwhy should Rahul give such an opportunity to his political detractors, Prasad wrote. Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram lawmaker Shashi Tharoor said Gandhi was the right person to lead the party and that the Congress has no time to sit and lick its wounds as it must immediately pick itself up for the upcoming state elections, PTI reported. Senior leader and Rajya Sabha MP Abhishek Singhvi called for drastic changes in the organisation such as an age limit on key posts and suggested that Gandhi consider undertaking a yatra to bolster his connection with the people. As a concerned Congressman, I feel Rahul should not resign as it would be playing in the BJPs hand. I believe he should consider a 90 or 180-day-long train (journey)-cum-padyatra. It will certainly help in better connection with people, Singhvi said. Rajasthan chief minster Ashok Gehlot had spent only a fraction of his time to campaign in Jodhpur for his son Vaibhav Gehlot, officials considered close to the CM claimed on Tuesday to counter allegations that his pre-occupation with his sons campaign led to the Congresss devastating loss in the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had won all 25 Lok Sabha seats in the western state, less than six months after the Congress wrested power from Vasundhara Raje-led BJP government. The officials close to the CM provided a list of public meetings addressed by Gehlot in Rajasthan during the Lok Sabha election campaign to claim that he addressed 104 rallies of which only 14 were in his sons constituency, Jodhpur. The official also said that Gehlot participated in filing of nomination papers of 22 of the 25 Congress Lok Sabha candidates and visited every Lok Sabha constituency at least thrice. Gehlot has come under fire after Congress president Rahul Gandhi at the CWC meet had blamed some leaders for putting their sons above the party and reportedly expressed unhappiness at the Rajasthan CM spending a week in Jodhpur to campaign for his son and neglecting the state. Vaibhav, who was making his political debut from Jodhpur against sitting MP and union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, lost by over 3 lakh votes. On Tuesday, both Gehlot and Rajasthan Congress president Sachin Pilot met party general secretary and in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, Priyanka Gandhi. Local leaders said Pilot met Priyanka at Rahul Gandhis residence, followed by Gehlot. However the agenda of discussion was not known. Later, both of them also met partys general secretary in-charge of organisation K C Venugopal. The Congress in Rajasthan has called for a state executive meeting on Wednesday in which a resolution requesting Congress president Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his resignation is likely to be adopted. The meeting will be attended by AICC general secretary in-charge of Rajasthan, Avinash Pande and AICC secretary, Vivek Bansal, Gehlot and Pilot. Even as Pande asked the state leaders not to express their view on election results in public after two ministers Ramesh Meena and Udai Lal Anjana in Gehlot cabinet had sought a need to find out reasons for the loss and fix accountability, two more party leaders aired their views on public. On Tuesday, Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee secretary, Sushil Asopa, in a Facebook post, said that state Congress president and deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot should have been made chief minister instead of Ashok Gehlot. Wherever you go in Rajasthan, you hear one voice - Congress. The results of the Lok Sabha elections would have been different had the party made Sachin Pilot chief minister as a reward for his hard work over five years, he wrote in Hindi. Khandelwal blamed party leaders for her loss and in a letter to Gandhi said that there should be a detailed analysis of the partys functioning in Jaipur constituency. She said some local leaders and workers in Malviya Nagar assembly constituency had not been active and blamed poor booth management for her defeat. Two militants were killed in an encounter with security forces in south Kashmirs Anantnag district on Tuesday, the police said. The gunfight started after security forces received an input about the presence of militants following which a joint party of the police, army and CRPF launched a search operation in Kachwan forests of Kokernag in Anantnag. During the search operation, the terrorists who were hiding fired on the search party. There was counter firing leading to an encounter. In the ensuing encounter, 2 terrorists were killed and their bodies were retrieved from the site of the encounter, a police spokesperson said. The identities and affiliation of the slain militants are still being ascertained. The search in the area is continuing, the spokesperson said. Incriminating material including arms and ammunition was recovered from the site of the encounter. The police said that it was a clean operation and no collateral damage took place during the exchange of fire. Last week on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday, security forces killed Kashmirs most wanted militant commander Zakir Musa, 25, who had formed an Al Qaeda affiliate Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind, in south Kashmir. The killing had triggered protests and stone pelting in old city Srinagar and in Pulwama prompting the administration to suspend mobile internet services and impose curfew in parts of the Valley for two days. Educational institutions had also been shut down. On Wednesday, two Hizbul Mujahideen militants were killed in a gunfight with security forces in south Kashmirs Kulgam district. Four militants were killed on May 18 in two separate encounters in Pulwama and Baramulla districts while on May 16 in two more gunfights, security forces killed five militants in which two army men and two civilians also lost their lives. After the Lok Sabha elections were conducted peacefully, the frequency of gunfights has increased in Kashmir valley and so has the number of militant deaths since May 10. There were just four encounters between security forces and militants between April 11 when Kashmirs Baramulla voted in the first phase and May 6 when the polls ended in the valley. Eight militants were killed in those four encounters. So far, 92 militants have been killed in various encounters with security forces across Kashmir this year. A court in Punjabs Pathankot is expected to pronounce its verdict in the January 2018 rape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in Jammu and Kashmirs Kathua by June 10, the prosecution said on Tuesday. The prosecution on Tuesday concluded its arguments in the case, which the Supreme Court shifted to Punjab in May 2018 after the girls family and lawyer said they faced death threats. Harminder Singh, the chief prosecuting officer of Jammu and Kashmir polices crime branch, said the defence began its arguments on Tuesday following the conclusion of its case by the prosecution. Let us hope the court verdict comes out before summer vacations from June 15, probably by June 10. According to the charge sheet filed in the case, the eight-year-old nomadic Muslim girl was strangled and killed with a stone a week after she was drugged, held in captivity and raped repeatedly in a temple. The top court shifted the trial to Punjab over two months after a complete shutdown was observed in Kathua on March 3, 2018, as people took to the streets demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the rape and murder. Two Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ministers, Choudhary Lal Singh and Chander Prakash Ganga, in the then Peoples Democratic Party-led alliance government in J&K, too, joined the protests under the banner of the Hindu Ekta Manch. The two ministers were forced to resign two months before the government fell in June when the BJP withdrew its support to the alliance. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee will try to attend Prime Minister Narendra Modis swearing-in ceremony for his second term on May 30, the Trinamool Congress chief said on Tuesday. Banerjee, who engaged in a vitriolic war of words with PM Modi during the election campaign for the national elections, stressed that attending the ceremonial event amounted to extending constitutional courtesy. Also read | BJP workers being killed for their ideology in Bengal: PM Modi The chief minister, according to news agency ANI, said she had discussed the invite with chief ministers of some other states where non-NDA parties are in power and they felt that they should go. We will attend the programme. There are certain ceremonial programmes where attending amounts to constitutional courtesy, Mamata Banerjee said at the state secretariat before suggesting that the short notice might be the only thing standing coming in the way. But there is only one day in between We will try to attend, the chief minister said. Banerjee had skipped PM Modis first oath ceremony back in 2014 citing certain preoccupations in the state. She had then deputed Mukul Roy, who was then her trusted lieutenant and finance minister Amit Mitra to represent Bengal. Mukul Roy had a major falling out with Mamata Banerjee and eventually crossed over to the BJP. Just hours before Mamata Banerjee RSVP-ed on the oath ceremony, Mukul Roy announced the defection by more 50 municipal councillors and 2 Trinamool Congress legislators to the BJP, and predicted that more Trinamool lawmakers would join the BJP over the next six months. The BJP and the Trinamool had an acrimonious political campaign where the Bengal chief minister, on one occasion said, she wanted to give PM Modi a tight slap of democracy. At another point, the Trinamool Congress had contended that she did not consider Narendra Modi the countrys Prime Minister. PM Modi had responded to the barb, telling an election meeting that Mamata Banerjee had crossed all limits and lost her mental balance. The ruling NDA coalitions landslide win in the parliamentary elections was also powered by its excellent showing in West Bengal. From two seats in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, its tally shot up to 18 out of the states 42 seats. The BJP has also increased its vote share to 40.25%. Reeling under the impact of poll debacle, the Congress is in deep trouble, with party chief Rahul Gandhi insisting on quitting the post amid a series of resignations, setting the stage for a likely meeting of its highest decision-making body, the Congress Working Committee (CWC), in the next four days. Amid indications that the party was considering a presidium system for taking it forward, the CWC is likely to discuss the leadership issue, sources said on Monday. It is learnt that Rahul Gandhi has conveyed that he has not changed his mind to quit. UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi are also learnt to have come to terms with his view that there should be a change of guard, though they have been of the view that the blame for defeat cannot be put on one person. During the day, party treasurer Ahmed Patel and general secretary K. C. Venugopal met Rahul and tried to persuade him not to press for his exit from the post. However, Patel later said that he had gone to meet Rahul for routine administrative work. Also read | Dont fall for rumours: Congress on reports of Rahul Gandhis resignation I had sought time before the CWC to meet the Congress President to discuss routine administrative work. The meeting today was in that context. All other speculation is incorrect and baseless, Patel tweeted. Sources said the CWC, the partys top decision-making body, is also likely to look at the structural reforms needed by the party. There is also a view in the Congress that Gandhi is sending a clear message to the old guard by holding out because there should be full freedom in decision-making. Sources said Rahul Gandhi did not give appointment to Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot in an apparent snub to him. The Congress President was not keen on Gehlot seeking ticket for his son. Gandhi is also learnt to have declined other appointments including of newly-eleced MPs who wanted to see him. The Congress is also believed to be considering a presidium system, as resignations pile up amid a deepening crisis. Gandhi had offered to resign taking moral responsibility for the partys defeat but the Congress Working Committee at its meeting on Saturday unanimously rejected the offer. Meanwhile, three more state party chiefs have tendered their resignations, taking the total number to six. Congress party chiefs of Jharkhand, Assam and Punjab have also resigned in addition to those from Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Odisha. Karanataka Pradesh Campaign Committee chairman H. K. Patil has also resigned. Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jhakar, who was the sitting MP from Gurdaspur, sent his resignation to Congress President Rahul Gandhi taking moral responsibility for losing to actor Sunny Deol from the seat. The Congress has generally done well in Punjab winning eight of 13 seats. Also read | BJPs next target: 333 in 2024 Lok Sabha polls with focus on south Jharkhand Congress chief Ajoy Kumar has also tendered his resignation. The party won only one seat in the state where it had an alliance with the JMM, RJD and other parties. While the party won Singhbhum seat, it lost Khunti by only 1,445 votes and Lohardaga by 10,363 votes. The partys Assam unit chief Ripun Bora also wrote to Gandhi taking moral responsibility for the party not being able to increase its tally from its previous tally of three seats. He has said in his letter that Gandhi may choose to replace him. Maharashtra unit chief Ashok Chavan, Uttar Pradesh unit chief Raj Babbar, and Odisha Congress chief Niranjan Patnaik have already sent their resignations. Yogendra Misra, the district Congress chief in Amethi in Uttar Pradesh has also sent his resignation, owning moral responsibility for Rahul Gandhis defeat from Amethi. Also read | Bimstec leaders invited to Modis oath-taking ceremony on May 30 (The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text, only the headline has been changed.) The BJPs president of Karnataka unit BS Yeddyurappa once again called for the dissolution of the Congress-JD(S) government and fresh polls in the state as his pointed to his partys historic win in the Lok Sabha election. The Bharatiya Janata Party won 25 out of the 28 seats in Karnataka in the recently-concluded Lok Sabha election as it bettered its tally from 17 in the last polls. The Congress had got nine and JD(S) two in the triangular contest in the 2014 general election. This year the allies won one seat each. We have won 25 out of 28 seats in Karnataka. It is a historic win. It is better if the government is dissolved and mid-term polls are held. No BJP MLA is in touch with Congress or JD(S), former chief minister BS Yeddyurappa was quoted as saying by ANI. The BJP had predicted the collapse of the ruling coalition and an increase in its tally in the assembly after the Lok Sabha election results, claiming that 20 odd Congress MLAs were unhappy with the government and may take any decision anytime. BS Yeddyurappas comments come after former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah said on Monday that the JD(S)-Congress government was a strong one and ridiculed state BJP president for repeatedly claiming that the coalition will collapse. In a series of tweets, he also said the peoples mandate was for continuation of the BJP-led government at the Centre and not for toppling the state government. @BSYBJP (Yeddyurappa) claims to form the govt inspite of not having the number. This is not a new drama but this is continuously misleading the public. Mr. @narendramodi bowed to the Constitution but in which article has the constitution given the right for @BJP4India to destabilise our govt (sic), the Congress Legislature Party leader asked. He asserted that all Congress MLAs, including dissident leader Ramesh Jarkiholi, were with the party and nobody was leaving. Jarkiholi had met senior BJP leader SM Krishna on Sunday in the presence of Yeddyurappa. Dismissing Yeddyurappas claim that the state government would collapse on June 1, Siddaramaiah dared him to resign from his post if his prediction did not come true. Siddaramiah said the outcome of the Lok Sabha election was for continuation of the NDA government at the Centre and not for the dissolution of the government in the state and make Yeddyurappa chief minister again. Its nonsense to say the assembly should be dissolved because the Lok Sabha election results were against us, Siddaramaiah said. Yeddyurappa had Sunday told PTI that it was impossible for the BJP to form a government with the JD(S) in the event of the present coalition government collapsing and favoured fresh assembly elections. We are ready for fresh assembly elections. There is no option left for our party, Yeddyurappa had said, citing the failure of the previous coalition arrangement between the JD(S) and the BJP in 2007. The Taj Mahal, built as a monument to a woman who died in childbirth, is set to get a baby feeding room in a first for India where conservative attitudes toward public breastfeeding mean nursing mothers are often shamed and told to cover up. Vasant Kumar Swarnkar, a top official at the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) in Agra city - home to the Taj Mahal - said the baby feeding room would be set up by July to help the millions of mothers who visit with their babies. A regular visitor to the 17th century monument to eternal love, Swarnkar said he got the idea last week when he spotted a mother hiding under a staircase and struggling to breastfeed her baby despite her husband providing extra cover. I could see it was so difficult for her (to feed her child) which is a basic motherhood right. So I thought we have to do something, he told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Public breastfeeding still carries a social stigma in India where mothers are expected to be covered head-to-toe. Last year, mothers in the eastern city of Kolkata protested outside a mall where employees told a woman to nurse her baby in a toilet and mocked her complaint. The Taj Mahal attracts up to 8 million visitors annually. Swarnkar said he has ordered two other historical monuments in Agra to set up similar feeding rooms. The ASI said this was the first time it was providing such a facility at any of Indias 3,600 plus monuments. My hope is that more and more monuments - not only in India but around the world - replicate this (plan) so that women can feed their babies comfortably, said Swarnkar. In 2017, the director of Londons Victoria and Albert museum apologised to a mother, who was asked to cover up while breastfeeding her baby. Two years earlier, another was expelled from Spains Corral del Carbon monument for nursing her baby. In backing police Superintendent Eddie Johnsons recommendation that the officer be fired, the Police Board said it found the victim particularly compelling because of her credible and detailed testimony as well as recordings she secretly made of Alexander allegedly soliciting her for sex. She is identified only as Jane Doe because she was 17 at the time. If the Congress-Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) wants a fighting chance in the 2019 Assembly polls, they could well start from western Maharashtra, their traditional bastion so far that has now gone saffron. The 2019 Assembly polls are slated in October. In the Lok Sabha (LS) polls, the BJP-Sena won nine of the 12 seats here, while the NCP managed to retain three. The Congress, just like 2014 polls, failed to make a comeback. The Assembly segment-wise data of LS polls paints an even more dismal scenario for the Opposition in the upcoming polls. It shows the Congress-NCP has leads in only 23 out of the 72 Assembly seats in this region. This region has given the state five CMs (all from Congress-NCP) and is the cradle of the co-operative movement. In 2014 Assembly polls, the Congress-NCP had won 29 seats from here, a tally that seems difficult to maintain. The saffron allies have made inroads in 49 Assembly seats. They had won 37 seats here in the last Assembly polls. The Congress-NCPs leads come largely from the seats they hold and their lead margins in the seats held by the Opposition are smaller. For instance, in Baramati, NCP MP Supriya Sule got the maximum lead of over 1.27 lakh votes from the constituency, which is represented by her cousin Ajit Pawar. In Purandar, a constituency held by Sena, she got a lead of only 9681 votes. Even more worrisome are seats where senior Congress-NCP leaders failed to score a lead. For instance, in Karad South, an Assembly seat held by former CM Prithviraj Chavan, the Sena candidate has a lead of 4,323 votes. Karad South falls in Satara Lok Sabha seat, which was retained by NCPs Udyanraje Bhosale. In Solapur Lok Sabha seat, where former CM Sushilkumar Shinde lost to a BJP candidate, the Congress does not have leads in four Assembly constituencies. This includes the Solapur city central seat represented by Shindes daughter Praniti. In Sangamner seat, held by senior Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat, the party candidate for the Shirdi Lok Sabha constituency trailed by 7,625 votes. There was a time when the Congress and NCP would compete against each other in western Maharashtra because saffron allies had no base here. Now the real battle will be between NCP and BJP-Sena and we will be on the defensive, said a former NCP minister. The Congress has leads in only four Assembly constituencies, while the NCP has leads in 11 of its constituencies. The allies have leads in another seven constituencies held by the Opposition and one held by the Peasants and Workers Party (PWP). In this region, too, the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi factor has dented potential wins and leads of the Congress-NCP candidates. Political analyst Professor Nitin Birmal said: In assembly polls, we move to much smaller constituencies where even small margins can make a difference. Also, things which may have gone against the Opposition may work in their favour. For instance, caste calculations will have more impact. Similarly, internal rivalries between allies which had an impact in Lok Sabha will not have much effect in the Assembly polls. For instance, in the Kolhapur LS seat, the NCP candidates loss is largely because the Congress did not work for him. Birmal said the ruling parties could swing a decisive win if they implement welfare schemes or give doleouts to farmers, similar to the LS polls. This is definitely not a satisfactory performance. The way people vote for a national and state election is different. So, this will not be repeated in the Assembly polls, said Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A Bollywood filmmakers daughter on Sunday approached the Amboli police after a social media user posted derogatory and obscene comments on her picture and threatened her. According to the police, the comment has now been deleted, but a screenshot of it has been submitted to them. We registered a case under section 504 and 509 of the Indian Penal Code and are investigating the case now, said Bharat Gaikwad, senior police inspector, Amboli police station. The director had earlier tweeted about the abusive comment and attached the screenshot. In the comment, the accused had threatened to sexually assault the complainant. Mumbai Polices cyber cell has also launched a parallel investigation into the case. They are trying to find out the IP address of the accused. We are checking whether the name and photo used by the accused is actually of him or not, said another officer. The Pune rural police, on Saturday, raided an illegal sand mining spot and have seized six trucks. The police arrested seven people who were granted bail by a local court on Monday. The men were charged under the Environment Protection Act. According to the police at Daund police station, the seized vehicles include two earthmovers , two tractors and six trucks. The vehicles had illegally mined sand worth Rs 65,06,000 . According to the police, the raids were conducted near Sonwadi area. The spot was near a farmland owned by Swapnil Ashok Pawar, 24, who was one of the arrested people. The other people have been identified as Umesh Cahugule, 22, Ramesh Shinde, 25, Atul Kawade, 26, Sandeep Devare, 23, and Swapnil Shitole, 28. Police inspector Sunil Mahadik of Daund police station said, We arrested seven people. The seized material is at the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) ground. Mahadik added, We raided three spots. Six people, including the owner of the land, was arrested from two spots where we seized the earthmovers and tractors. We sized the trucks from another spot, however, the drivers of the trucks fled. A case under Sections 379 and 34 (common intention) of Indian Penal Code and Section 21(4) of Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation Act, 1957 and Sections 15 and 9 of Environment Protection Act was registered at Daund police station. Television actor Abhimanyu Chaudhary along with his friend was arrested for allegedly thrashing and attacking an employee of a salon with a knife. The duo went to the salon after the actors friend accused an employee of the salon of touching her inappropriately. We have arrested Abhimanyu and his friend and have registered a case against the duo and their woman friend who had called them to the salon, said Shailesh Pasalwad, senior police inspector of Mumbai Police. On May 16, one of Abhimanyus friends called him to come to the salon after one of the employees of the salon allegedly touched her inappropriately while massaging her head. The actor, along with his friend, reached the salon in Lokhandwala and started beating the employee. They also attacked him with a knife. Also read: Ajay Devgns father Veeru Devgans funeral: Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai pay last respects. See pics In the CCTV footage, the actor along with his friend can be seen beating the employee. The footage also shows another woman employee getting hurt during the brawl. According to Pasalwad, a complaint has been lodged against the salon employee based on the complaint filed by Abhimanyus friend. Abhimanyu has done a small role in Amitabh Bachchan and Dhanush starrer Shamitabh while he was also seen as a support role in TV series Manmohini. (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 At least 40 inmates were killed in four jails in northern Brazil on Monday over an apparent gang dispute, authorities said, in the latest wave of violence to rock the countrys severely overpopulated and deadly prison system. The victims appeared to have been killed by asphyxiation, the Amazonas state government said, a day after 15 people were killed in one of the prisons. Officials had initially put the number of dead at 42, but later revised the number to 40. At least 25 of the victims were found in the Antonio Trindade Penal Institute near Manaus, the capital of Amazonas, where all four prisons are located. No guns or knives were used in the killings, which prison officials said appeared to have been sparked by a rift between prisoners who belonged to the same criminal group and were involved in drug trafficking in the state. The government has dispatched reinforcements to boost security in prison facilities across the country. An investigation launched into Sundays mass killing at the Anisio Jobim Penal Complex, in which some of the prisoners were stabbed with sharpened toothbrushes during visiting hours, has been widened to include Mondays deaths. Four of those killed in the latest violence were found at the Anisio Jobim jail. Another five were killed at the Provisional Detention Center for Men and six died at the Puraquequara Prison Unit. French President Emmanuel Macron tasted defeat in European elections, but not disaster, and is set to continue pushing both his pro-EU agenda and a realignment of parties in the European Parliament. Macrons Republic on the Move (LREM) party finished second behind the far-right National Rally (RN) of his arch-rival Marine Le Pen, but the two parties ended up with less than 1.0 percentage point separating them -- on 22.41 percent and 23.31 percent respectively. The vote was seen as a test for Macron domestically after months of anti-government yellow vest protests, while his credibility in Europe as a champion of deeper integration was also judged to be on the line. A disappointment, but not a defeat for the Elysee, headlined Le Parisien newspaper on Monday, while an editorial in the Les Echos business daily said Macrons party was resisting well two years after his election. Macron on Monday held a meeting of key figures from the LREM -- including Prime Minister Edouard Philippe and the head of its list for the EU polls Nathalie Loiseau -- to discuss the next steps, a presidential source said. The 41-year-olds priority will now be trying to increase his influence in the European Parliament where LREM and its centrist allies will send 23 MEPs, the same number as Le Pens RN. His long-standing objective is to redraw the political map of the EU parliament, long dominated by the centre-right EPP grouping and the centre-left S&D -- in the same way as he broke the stranglehold of Frances traditional parties. Macrons EU-level partners, who form the ALDE group, finished third in Sundays polls, but the French leader is now aiming to broaden the coalition to include new partners, particularly Greens who made major gains. The group that we are going to join is going to be a swing group which will try to be a driver in the creation of a progressive alliance. Why not with the Greens?, French government spokesman Sibeth Ndiaye told BFM television on Monday. She added that ALDE would be renamed. On Monday night, Macron will hold talks in Paris with victorious Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez whose Socialist party is set to become the biggest member of the S&D grouping after topping polls in Spain. At the European level, the president is still manoeuvring to form a large progressive alliance, a force that will be essential in the new parliament, an aide to the French leader told AFP on Sunday. But Macrons ambitions, like his broader agenda for new EU initiatives, are likely to face resistance and it is far from certain that he can repeat his feat of fracturing Europes centre-right and centre-left parties, as he did in France. In a sign of the difficulties in proposing a deal with the Greens, influential and outspoken Belgian MEP Philippe Lamberts appeared to rule out an alliance on Sunday, saying that Macron couldnt give a shit about the environment. Lamberts, co-leader of the Greens, delivered a caustic speech to Macron when he visited the European Parliament in April last year, saying he had betrayed Frances values of liberty, equality and fraternity. Some analysts see the ALDE grouping as increasing its influence in the new parliament, but as remaining a distinct group along with the Greens. Centrists and liberals are now strong enough to say to the EPP and S&D, you need to work with us and organise a four-way coalition, Sebastien Maillard from the Jacques Delors Institute, a think-tank, told AFP. (The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text.) At least 40 inmates were killed in four jails in northern Brazil on Monday over an apparent gang dispute, authorities said, in the latest wave of violence to rock the countrys severely overpopulated and deadly prison system. The victims appeared to have been killed by asphyxiation, the Amazonas state government said in a statement, a day after 15 people were killed in one of the prisons. Officials had initially put the number of dead at 42, but later revised the number to 40. At least 25 of the victims were found in the Antonio Trindade Penal Institute near Manaus, the capital of Amazonas, where all four prisons are located. No guns or knives were used in the killings, which prison officials said appeared to have been sparked by a rift between prisoners who belonged to the same criminal group and were involved in drug trafficking in the state. The federal government has dispatched reinforcements to boost security in the jails. I just spoke with (Justice) Minister Sergio Moro, who is sending a prison intervention team to Amazonas so that he can help us in this moment of crisis, state Governor Wilson Lima said. An investigation launched into Sundays mass killing at the Anisio Jobim Penal Complex, in which some of the prisoners were stabbed with sharpened toothbrushes during visiting hours, has been widened to include Mondays deaths. Four of those killed in the latest violence were found at the Anisio Jobim jail, which was also the scene of a prison rebellion that lasted almost 20 hours and left 56 people dead in January 2017. Another five were killed at the Provisional Detention Center for Men and six died at the Puraquequara Prison Unit. The fact that the killings were coordinated across four separate prisons... suggests that this was a settling of scores, Robert Muggah, research director at the Igarape Institute think tank in Rio de Janeiro, told AFP. The latest violence in Amazonas, one of Brazils most violent states, was almost guaranteed to inspire retribution inside and outside the prison walls. Outbreaks of deadly violence are a recurring problem in Brazils jails due to the lack of structural changes, experts said. Prisons continue to be places of serious violations of human rights, said Juliana Melo, a professor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte. The conditions are appalling, with a majority of prisoners poor, black, badly schooled and marginalized. Brazil has the worlds third largest prison population after the United States and China, with 726,712 inmates as of June 2016, according to official statistics. The population is double the capacity of the nations jails, which in the same year was estimated to be 368,049 inmates. The federal government had been expected to add another 115,000 inmates by the end of 2018, Human Rights Watch said in a recent report. Along with severe overcrowding and gang violence, riots and breakout attempts in Brazils prisons are not uncommon. Deaths in Brazils prison system are shamefully recurrent, said Julita Lemgruber, a former director of Rio de Janeiros penitentiary system and professor at Candido Mendes University. They are recurrent because those who die are originally from the poorest sections of the population and are people who are not clear about their rights. While Muggah said there was no quick fix available for the system, the government needed to start by drastically reducing the number of pretrial detainees who currently make up 40 percent of the prison population. Rather than imposing harsher sentencing laws and building new prisons, the public authorities need to enforce existing legislation -- including ensuring suspects are provided with hearings within 24 hours of their arrest, he said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON India and China should discuss signing a good neighbourly treaty of friendship, explore signing a bilateral trade deal, look at early harvest solutions for the festering border dispute and work on the China-India model of cooperation, outgoing Chinese envoy, Luo Zhaohui has suggested. After experiencing the extraordinary development of the honeymoon period, ice period and recovery period, Dong Lang (2017s Doklam military standoff) caused Sino-Indian relations to fall into a trough. With President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modis Meeting in Wuhan as a symbol, the relations between the two countries have returned to a healthy and stable development track, Luo wrote in an article for state-controlled news app, The Paper, seen as a news app for Chinas millennials. Luo is on his way back after a nearly three-year stint as the Chinese envoy to India and is expected to be promoted as a vice foreign minister. His lengthy article in Chinese for The Paper possibly indicates Sino-India bilateral ties are likely to remain positive as the two countries prepare for Xis India visit later this year. Luo mentioned that PM Modi and Xi have met three times since Wuhan to lead the waves of the two countries relations and at least three Chinese ministers have visited India in the last one year. At present, more than 1,000 Chinese companies are doing business in India and have created 100,000 jobs. Xiaomi, VIVO, OPPO and other Chinese mobile phone brands have occupied half of the Indian market, the senior diplomat wrote. The two countries have handled sensitive issues like Indias boycott of the Belt and Road Initiative cooperation forum and the issue of the listing of the Pakistan-based terrorist, Masood Azhar in a mature way, he wrote. Luo added that Beijing and New Delhi could share their experiences in developing ideas like the BRI, the Bangladesh, China, India, Myanmar (BCIM) corridor and Indias Eastward Policy. The China-India+ cooperation model can be extended to any direction of mutual interest, Luo wrote. He suggested that in the near future the two countries could focus on four major aspects of ties: signing the China-India Good-Neighbourly Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, exploring bilateral free trade agreement arrangements, launching early harvest negotiations on the border issue, and realising the One Belt, One Road initiative and the integration of national development strategies of India. At the same time, Luo added that it was important to control differences, enhance mutual trust, complementary advantages, healthy competition, and jointly promote the construction of the Sino-Indian community of destiny as well as the common destiny of the Asian community. India was among the first countries to recognise the Peoples Republic of China when it came into existence in 1949. Writing about that, Luo mentioned that New Delhi and Beijing will celebrate the 70th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties this year. Calling it an extraordinary year, Luo wrote that both countries should learn from the past, understand the trends of current ties, deepen strategic mutual trust and expand pragmatic cooperation. US Vice President Mike Pence on Tuesday urged the Supreme Court to take up a case about abortions based on sex, race or potential disability of the fetus, after the high court sidestepped the issue. While serving as governor of Indiana, Pence had signed into law a ban on so-called selective abortions. A lower court struck it down, and earlier Tuesday, the US Supreme Court opted not to weigh in until lower courts do so. Pences office released a statement saying it remained hopeful that at a later date the Supreme Court will review one of numerous state laws across the US that bar abortion based on sex, race, or disability. Countries across the globe prohibit selective abortion -- and the United States should do the same, said the statement from Pences press secretary Alyssa Farah. Pences remarks follow moves by legislatures in several Republican-led states to restrict access to abortion in a bid to eventually challenge the 1973 US Supreme Court ruling in Roe vs Wade, which made abortion legal nationwide. Since taking office, President Donald Trump has appointed two conservative justices -- Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh -- and liberal members of the court are now outnumbered five to four. (This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.) Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On May 27, Mobility Asia, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, struck a strategic cooperation framework deal with Volkswagen Group China, JAC Motors and Hefei Provincial Government for a smart city program to be built in the capital of Chinas Anhui Province. Founded in May of 2018, Mobility Asia serves as a pioneer of Volkswagen Groups transformation to mobility service provider. It is dedicated to building an intelligent connected ecosystem with focus on five key areasconnectivity, smart mobility ecosystem, infrastructure ecosystem, service/data monetization and autonomous car, and providing the industry with an all-round smart mobility solution. Products and services of Mobility Asia currently include intelligent parking, intelligent charging network, smart online payment, intelligent scenario-based navigation, intelligent voice assistant/recognition, ride-hailing as well as intelligent fleet operation/management. We are aiming to redefine and create a smart city with our own hands by constructing intelligent infrastructures and offering the AV MaaS (autonomous vehicle-based Mobility as a Service). Under our cooperation, Hefei is going to set a benchmark for building smart cities in China, said Wei-Ming Soh, Executive Vice President of Volkswagen AG and CEO of Mobility Asia. What made Volkswagen choose Hefei still remained unknown. However, the city has become another important location that keeps attracting the German auto conglomerate's investment, especially in new technology and new energy vehicle (NEV) fields. Hefei-based JAC Motors and Volkswagen Group China signed an MoU as early as September 2016 for a possible joint venture centered around developing EVs for the Chinese market. On June 29, 2017, the JAC-Volkswagen joint venture, with a planned annual capacity of 100,000 NEVs, started construction. Moreover, Volkswagen Group China on May 16, 2019 founded a new energy technology joint venture in China with Jiangsu Wanbang Dehe New Energy Technology Co.,Ltd, JAC Motors and a 99.62%-owned subsidiary of FAW Group, according to qichacha.com, a Chinese enterprise information search platform. Involving registered capital of RMB812 million, the newly-built subsidiary's business scope extends to cover the R&D, design, manufacturing and sale of EV wallbox chargers and charging piles, and the installation, maintenance and operation of charging piles. "Not only is his badge here on the wall, but now the dedication of the scuba dog will always be there so that the family and his sons have a connection knowing how the city feels about their dad's sacrifice," Ford said at the academy. After serving as a junior officer, Rob Lee wrote a renowned chronicle of his fathers life IT WASNT EASY LIVING in the shadow of the Confederacys greatest general, but Robert E. Lee Jr. had an interesting and accomplished Civil War career. He fought in the artillery and cavalry and rose to the rank of lieutenant. He later became one of his fathers greatest chroniclers through the publication of Recollections and Letters of Robert E. Lee in 1904. Robert Edward Lee Jr. was the sixth of his parents seven children. The youngest of three boys, he was born October 27, 1843, atArlington Plantation, the home of his mother, Mary Anna Randolph Custis Lee, daughter of George Washington Parke Custis, the adopted grandson of George Washington. Robs other grandfather was Revolutionary War cavalryman Light Horse Harry Lee. The familys military tradition had its challenges. As a Regular Army officer, the elder Lee was gone for long periods conducting engineering work on military defenses in Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Georgia. When the Mexican War broke out, Captain Lee served as an engineer in Winfield Scotts forces. In Recollections and Letters, Rob said his earliest memory of his father was of him returning home from Mexico after an absence of nearly two years. According to Rob, his father didnt recognize him and kissed Robs playmate by accident. It would not be the last time Robs father failed to recognize his son. As was true of the other Lee children, Rob received an excellent education. He first attended school in Baltimore, while his father was serving at Fort Carroll. When Robert E. Lee moved to West Point, N.Y., in 1852 to serve as superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy, Rob followed. Rob remembered his father helping him with Latin and teaching him how to ride a horse. But Rob wrote, I saw but little of my father after we left West Point in 1855, when the senior Lee was ordered to St. Louis in preparation for his next assignment out West, chasing Comanche warriors across the hot and arid Texas plains. Despite his fathers absences, it was impossible to disobey him, Rob recalled. My mother I could sometimes circumvent and at times took liberties with her ordersbut exact obedience to every mandate of my father was a part of my life and being. From November 1857 to February 1860, Robert E. Lee returned to Arlington to settle the estate of George Washington Parke Custis. Young Rob had another couple of years to enjoy with his father. In contrast to his father and brothers, Rob was not interested in pursuing a military education. He attended the University of Virginia, which in the prewar period was a raucous, all-male institution where students drank, shot pistols, and broke things. Rob might have been full of youthful energy, but like his father, he was also religious. In May 1860, he underwent a spiritual conversion. How are you getting along with your God, he wrote his sister Mildred in January 1861. O! my sister, he said, neglect not him. I have suffered much from neglecting him. When the Civil War broke out, Robnot yet 18 years oldwas an eager volunteer. In the spring of 1861, young men from the University of Virginia organized military companies, and Rob became a commissioned officer in the Southern Guard. He marched with this unit all the way to Winchester before Governor John Wise ordered the students back to Charlottesville. In December 1861, Rob wrote there were only 50 students left at the universitydown from 650 the previous yearbecause so many had enlisted in the Confederate Army. Rob grew up in a thriving slaveholding society, and his racial views reflected that reality. In January 1862, a few months before he reenlisted, Rob visited White House plantation, the home of his brother William Henry Fitzhugh Lee, better known as Rooney. Rob wrote to Mildred that the most delightful thing about the place is the set of negroes. They are the real old Virginny kind, as polite as possible devoted to their master & mistress, who are devoted to them & who do every thing for them. On March 28, 1862, Rob joined the Rockbridge Artillery as a private, and with that unit experienced his first fighting in the Shenandoah Valley. During the first few weeks of his service, the Confederate Army was in a difficult moment of transition. In April, the Confederate Congress passed a controversial conscription act, the first in American history. The act drafted men from the ages of 18 to 35 and kept them for three years or until the end of the war. The act led to the reorganization and consolidation of regiments. The whole army seems very much dissatisfied, Rob wrote to his father on April 23. He noted there were a good many desertions among the militia & the valley men who refuse to leave their homes behind them. Rob himself was not discouraged, and he looked down on those men of wavering patriotism. In May at Front Royal, Va., Confederates routed a much smaller force of Federals under Colonel John Reese Kenly. Rob wrote of overrunning Federal camps and the men helping themselves to bacon, sugar, coffee, and other luxuries. We got all kinds of sweetmeats, Rob wrote his father, the most delicious canned fruit of all Kinds ginger cakes by the barrels sugar candy & all Kinds of nick nacks. Rob said he made a hearty meal of bread & butter ginger cakes & sugar wh[ich] helped me out, for I was nearly starved. The young artilleryman said the Confederate damage amounted to $100,000. Victory did not erase the harsh realities of war. Rob saw one of his friends badly wounded in the face at Front Royal. As for himself, he was exhausted. I think I have been through as hard a time as I ever will see in this war, he told his father. For twenty four days we have been marching & this is the fourth day we have rested Through rain mud water woods up & down mountains & for two weeks half starved. The hard fighting, though, energized him. I am now as hearty as a buck feeling better than I ever did in my life, he reassured his father. Rob did not see General Lee again until the Seven Days Battles. By then, his father had been put in command of the Army of Northern Virginia and was fighting to drive Maj. Gen. George B. McClellans Army of the Potomac from the outskirts of Richmond. Rob remembered that by then, short rations, the bad water, and the great heat, had begun to tell on us, and I was pretty well worn out. At the Second Battle of Manassas, Rob, serving as the No. 1 man in charge of ramming artillery rounds down his cannons barrel, was again in the thick of combat. My face and hands were blackened with powder-sweat, he recalled, and the few garments I had on were ragged and stained with the red soil of that section. Rob encountered his father on the battlefield and managed to get his attention. Well, my man, what can I do for you? he remembered his father saying. Why, General dont you know me? Rob replied. Once his father realized who he was talking to, he was much amused at my appearance and most glad to see that I was safe and well. Shortly after Second Manassas, the Army of Northern Virginia headed north toward the Potomac River and Maryland. During the busy days of marching, Rob recalled he occasionally saw the commander-in-chief, on the march, or passed the headquarters close enough to recognise him and members of his staff, but as a private soldier in Jacksons corps did not have much timefor visiting. His next opportunity to talk to his father came on September 17, the day of the notorious Battle of Sharpsburg. During that bloody fight, when 23,000 men became casualties, Rob remembered that our battery had been severely handled, losing many men and horses. Having three guns disabled, we were ordered to withdraw, and while moving back we passed General Lee and several of his staff, grouped on a little knoll near the road.Captain Poague, commanding our battery, the Rockbridge Artillery, saluted, reported our condition, and asked for instructions. The general listened to Poagues report and told him to take his damaged guns to the rear, but to prepare his remaining cannon for more action. As he talked to Poague, Lees eyes drifted over the battle-worn men on the battery, once again apparently not recognizing his youngest son. Rob recalled that he approached his father, said hello, then asked, General, are you going to send us in again? Replied the commander, Yes, my son, you all must do what you can to help drive these people back. By the fall of 1862, Rob, his father, and his brother and cavalry officer Rooney had survived several bloody campaigns, but the family suffered loss all the same. In October, his sister Annie died of disease in North Carolina, where she had fled to escape the ravages of war in Virginia. I shall never see her any more in this world, Rob wrote of Annie. As much as possible, the family tried to stay together. Rooney was promoted from colonel of the 9th Virginia Cavalry to brigadier general and leadership of North Carolina and Virginia troopers. Rob became a lieutenant and one of Rooneys staff officers and remained optimistic about the Confederacys future. I think well whip old Burnside badly when we meet him, he wrote in late November 1862. Events proved him correct. Lees forces soundly defeated Maj. Gen. Ambrose Burnside in December at the Battle of Fredericksburg. Months of relative inactivity followed. Rob fought at Chancellorsville on May 1-3, 1863, but he did not march north with the Army of Northern Virginia into Pennsylvania during the Gettysburg Campaign. That might have been because Rooney was wounded at Brandy Station on June 9 and captured soon thereafter and sent to a Northern prison, where he languished for months. With his brother out of the army, Rob worked for a while with the Ordnance Department in Richmond. Rob was not depressed by the news of his fathers July defeat at Gettysburg. Later that month, he told his mother that the men & officers are in very good spirits & very desirous of establishing their fame firmly, which they think has been a little shaken at Gettysburg. By then, Rob had rejoined the cavalry, serving in Colonel John R. Chambliss 13th Virginia Cavalry, and he defended his fellow horsemen against accusations that the cavalry never does anything. Truth is we do all the hard work of the Army, he said, noting there was freedom in this branch which is delightful. Rob remembered that at the time of the 1864 Overland Campaign, morale was still high in the Army of Northern Virginia. He wrote, it never occurred to me, and to thousands and thousands like me, that there was any occasion for uneasiness. The men of the Army of Northern Virginia firmly believed that Marse Robertwould bring us out of this trouble all right. Rob was wounded at the May fighting near Spotsylvania, but he recovered and rejoined his command. In a July 1864 letter to his sister Agnes, he wrote of soldiers getting plenty to eat, and he was impatient to turn our horses out on the fine grass in Maryland & Pennsylvania. During the Petersburg siege, on August 15, 1864, he was wounded slightly in the arm at the Second Battle of Deep Bottom. The wound took Rob out of action for three weeks. By 1865, Robs outlook had grown darker and he was pessimistic about his future. I dont know whether I shall ever see you again, he told his sister, Mildred. But he could still be funny, warning Agnes in March: Dont let Sheridan get my trunk, referring to Union Maj. Gen. Phil Sheridan. In the final days of the war, Rob had a horse shot from under him, an event he remembered happening on April 2 or 3. Thankfully for him, he was cut off from the rest of the army. He said he was surprised when he heard of the news of the surrender. He rejoined his command and accompanied the remnants of the Jefferson Davis government to Greensboro, N.C. That was as far as he made it. He eventually returned to Richmond and was paroled in May 1865. With the South devastated, Rob tried his hand at farming. He settled in King William County, Va., roughly 40 miles east of Richmond. As the owner of Romancoke, he ran a small plantation on the Pamunkey River. The estate was left to Rob in 1857 by his grandfather, George Washington Parke Custis. At Romancoke, Robfar from his family in Lexingtonfound himself a lonely bachelor and struggling farmer. Unlike his oldest brother Custis, who became president of Washington and Lee University, and Rooney, who later became a U.S. congressman, Rob kept a low profile after the war and his racial views had not progressed beyond condescending references to African Americans. In February 1866, he told a sister about Old Coon, a black woman helping him keep house. A year later, he dismissed the plight of the freed people of the South, saying, they were stirred up by baptizing & politics, but added that theory would never be demonstrated by Cuffee. He still received advice from his father. You must have a nice wife, the elder Lee told him in August 1867. I do not like you being so lonely. I fear you will fall in love with celibacy. General Lee traveled to Romancoke several times to see his bachelor son. Rob apparently cared little about entertaining, and after one trip General Lee decided his son needed a proper set of silverware. The general last visited Rob in the spring of 1870. The news of his fathers death on October 12, 1870, hit Rob hard. After the generals death, he lamented his own selfishness & weakness and praised his father for the example of true manliness he set me all through his life. In contrast, he felt he had done so little for him. Robs uncertain finances, the shabbiness of his estate, and the fact that he was far from family and city life slowed his prospects of finding a wife. After a long courtship, in November 1871 he married 23-year-old Charlotte Taylor Haxall, but the marriage to Lottie, as she was known, proved brief. She died of tuberculosis on September 22, 1872. I try to believe that all is for the best, he wrote after her death, but it is very hardhard to believe, harder still to feel so. A year later, Rob lost his mother, who had suffered from debilitating ill health. A few weeks before her death, Robs sister, Agnes, had also died. In 1875, Rob departed for England with his sister Mildred. He stayed there for a year. Rob eventually moved from Romancoke to Washington, D.C., where he worked in the insurance business. In March 1894, Rob married Juliet Carter, the daughter of Colonel Thomas H. Carter, a Virginian who had served in the Army of Northern Virginias artillery. Rob and Juliet had two daughters, Anne Carter (1897-1978) and Mary Custis (1900-1994). In 1904, Rob published Recollections and Letters of General Robert E. Lee. The book included transcriptions of his fathers letters, recollections of his spoken words, and anecdotes drawn from Robs memories of those of his older siblings. The book was well received and remains essential reading for Lee scholars. Rob died on October 14, 1914, and he is buried with his family in the Lee crypt in Lexington. Robert E. Lee biographer J. William Jones wrote of him, No braver or more chivalric man ever lived, and his death is lamented by his surviving comrades of the war, and by a host of friends. In many ways, Robert E. Lee Jr. was a typical Confederate soldier. He was an unmarried enlisted man in his 20s who fought in the ranks and a defender of the racial status quo. He survived the war, though he saw many of his friends and comrades killed. In other ways, his life was atypical in that he was the son of the Confederacys greatest warrior and a member of one of the Souths most celebrated and elite families. An unsuccessful farmer after the war, the ex-Rebel moved, ironically, to the federal capital of Washington, D.C., to seek better financial opportunities. Robs career may have been humble compared with others of his generation, but his letters provide an important link between the pre- and postwar South, and he was the liveliest and funniest writer of any member of his family. His Recollections and Letters of Robert E. Lee remains an important source on his famous father. Colin Woodward is the author of Marching Masters: Slavery, Race, and the Confederate Army During the Civil War. He lives in Richmond, where he is host of the history and pop culture podcast American Rambler. He is revising a book on country singer Johnny Cash. P ublic engagement is good for design but in practice design often takes place away from the public eye. This is why it is crucial that the local community becomes involved in the design that grows up around them. Planners cannot afford to disregard the people who understand their local economy best, who know its anecdotal history and who share daily experiences. So why arent they involved more often in initial design work at the very point imaginative and collective thinking is most needed? This should be the norm, not the exception. I agree with Clare Richards, director of ftwork (Footwork Architects), a practice focusing on communities, when she says: Communities often experience development or regeneration as something being done to them. "Its short-sighted because evidence shows that the more people feel they have some control, the better the outcome. If designers have already put pen to paper, that opportunity has been lost. Enlightened planning and design does not happen often enough, but one rainy day last December it did. We joined the London Festival of Architecture and the Royal Docks Team (an initiative between the Mayors of London and Newham) alongside architects, developers, landowners and importantly local people, to think about how the railway dividing ExCeL and the Royal Docks waterfront from the local community could become less of a physical boundary. Casey Howard, a local community planner, described coming from the new station into Custom House as like falling off a cliff. This was a light bulb moment. Why shouldnt a new gently sloping boulevard reconnect the two sides of the railway, so that visitors to ExCeL could discover a vibrant neighbourhood, while local residents could enjoy the opportunities and facilities on offer around ExCeL? Clare Richards argues that success depends on understanding whats there already, addressing existing problems, then coming to a shared vision with the community. She is right: everyone wins when physical boundaries are overcome before they become entrenched social and economic barriers. A s any London house hunter knows, if you want to live close to the river, you will have to pay a premium. Studies show that a view of the Thames is a London propertys most expensive asset, commanding price premiums of up to 93 per cent. But for those on the lookout for a home with easy access to the river at a slightly reduced price, there are areas where a direct move from one side of the river to the other can save buyers thousands of pounds on their property purchase. Unsurprisingly, most of these money-saving moves are from areas on the traditionally more expensive north side of the river to the predominantly less pricey south, but there are some places where crossing in reverse will lead to savings. Loading.... Exclusive research from estate agent Benham & Reeves using sold house price data from Land Registry, found that outside the very centre of London, the biggest savings in a move from north to south London can be found by swapping Chelsea for Battersea. Other significant price cuts can be made with a move from Westminster to Lambeth; Fulham to Wandsworth; Chiswick to Mortlake; Pimlico to Vauxhall; and Wapping to Bermondsey. Moving in the opposite direction, the biggest saving outside the heart of the city is between Dartford in Kent and Purfleet in Essex. Further south to north moves offering big savings include Richmond to Twickenham; Rotherhithe to Limehouse; Greenwich to Canary Wharf; Deptford to the Isle of Dogs; and Barnes to Hammersmith. Key locations where a river crossing is well worth considering Swap Chelsea for Battersea The biggest saving can be made by hopping from Chelsea, north of the river, to Battersea, a 20-minute walk south, across the Albert or Battersea Bridge. 1.75 million: a two-bedroom, 761sq ft flat in Chelsea, SW3 / Rightmove While house prices in both areas are high, buyers could save an average of 816,000 swapping the rarefied streets of Chelsea average house price 1.7 million for Batterseas SW11 postcode, where the average home costs 926,000. Chris Innes-Ker, sales director at Chestertons Battersea Park says that whereas 10 years ago he would struggle to persuade Chelsea dwellers to even view a property south of the river, the huge surge in SW3 house prices, which peaked in 2014, forced buyers to widen their property search parameters. He estimates that on average buyers who make the leap get about 40 per cent more property for their money. Innes-Ker says the sheer number of people moving from Chelsea to the area of Battersea bordering Battersea Park has shifted the perception of where 'south London' starts in this part of town from the river to Battersea Park Road, a couple of streets back from the riverfront park. Their lives are still effectively in Kensington & Chelsea but they live in Battersea, he says. 900,000: this three-bedroom house in Battersea with around 1,068sq ft of living space / Rightmove And those who can leave their postcode snobbery at the door find themselves in good company. One of my colleagues bumped into Prince William walking Prince George to school in Battersea this morning if its good enough for the heir to the throne its good enough for most people, says Innes-Ker. Swap Fulham for Wandsworth 1 million: this 862sq ft two-bedroom lower ground floor flat in Fulham A little further west, crossing the river from Fulham to Wandsworth sees the price of a home drop 432,000, from 1.14 million to 703,000 for a very similar style of property. Wandsworth doesnt have the cachet that Fulham has because of how expensive it is to live there, how elite it is. Youre paying for the name, says Ewen Bunting, MD of independent south-west London estate agent James Pendleton. But Old York Road now has a very similar feel to the Kings Road 15 years ago, theres an independent butcher, trendy restaurants, sandwich shops, cafes, Paris-style pavement eating and its not a motorway, you dont get traffic, which you do on the Kings Road. Added benefits for those who can forgo cachet for a little extra space include Wandsworths superior transport links to central London hop on a train from Earlsfield and be at Waterloo in 15 minutes, rather than trundling along on the District line as well as the ability to get more home for your money. 700,000: a four-bedroom maisonette in Wandsworth with 1,215sq ft of living space / Rightmove Where its cheaper to live north of the river than in the south Moving south of the river wont always net you a huge saving. Looking east, inner London commuters can save 95,000 swapping Dartford (average price 310,000) for Purfleet (215,000), across the Queen Elizabeth Bridge. For buyers with an eye to the future, this is likely to be a lucrative move, with 1 billion investment promised to the Essex town as part of its reinvention as Purfleet-on-Thames. Local agents say buyers in Purfleet tend to come from east London, rather than the areas southern neighbour, with relative affordability and the potential for future house price growth especially once the town centre regeneration is under way seen as significant pull factors. Move from Richmond to Twickenham An exception to the rule that north London is generally more prestigious and sought-after than south London occurs between the celeb hotspot of Richmond, where the average property sells for 952,000, and rugby-loving Twickenham, with an average house price of 893,000. Move from Richmond to Twickenham: cross that bridge to save 60,000 / Daniel Lynch But Aaron Baxter of Snellers Twickenham says that buyers who make the move discover even more benefits in Twickenham than a house price saving of just under 60,000. Weve got four Ofsted outstanding ranked state schools, a 23-minute train service to Waterloo and family homes for under a million pounds, literally a mile and a half from Richmond, he says. Baxter also cites a greater sense of community in Twickenham than impersonal Richmond and a wider variety of property types attracting people at all levels of the property market, as opposed to than the predominance of first-time buyer flats and large family houses found south of the river. This tempts many buyers across the river from Richmond to Twickenham, either upsizing from flats in Richmond, or looking to buy in Richmond before realising how much further their money will stretch in Twickenham. I certainly knew that before, but to see it graphically depicted is quite shocking and says that weve got a long way to go as a city, she said. This is not a law enforcement-only challenge. Its a challenge for all of us in city government. Its a challenge for us in communities to dig down deeper and ask ourselves what we can do to step up to stem the violence. Now Open 28 May 2019 The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), South Asia's largest hospitality company, is introducing the iconic Taj brand in Agra with the opening of Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, Agra. The hotel spread over 4.5 acres is ideally located within walking distance from the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The 239 spacious rooms are elegantly designed in a contemporary style. The hotel offers multiple dining options such as Palato, the all-day diner, Daawat-e-Nawaab, the Indian specialty restaurant and two lounges - Liquid Lounge and Tea Lounge. The piece de resistance is Infini - The Sky Lounge, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the Taj Mahal. Guests can enjoy a swim in the infinity pool which also overlooks the Taj Mahal. This luxury hotel in Agra is an ideal destination for large conferences and destination weddings. It offers 40,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor banqueting space including a 14,000 sq. ft. pillar-less hall which is one of the largest in North India. With this addition, IHCL will have two hotels, one under the Taj and one under the SeleQtions brand in the city of Agra. Agra is a city on the banks of the river Yamuna in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is a major tourist destination because of its many Mughal-era buildings, most notably the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri all of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Agra is included on the Golden Triangle tourist circuit, along with Delhi and Jaipur. Alejandro Aguado and the other two had gotten together after the woman finished working in the area, according to Chicago police spokesman Jose Jara. They were walking along The 606 trail in Logan Square when three people confronted them around 12:10 a.m. in the 1800 block of North Monticello Avenue. They demanded to know their gang affiliation, then pulled out handguns and fired as Aguado and the others ran away, police said. Renovation 28 May 2019 After an extensive transformation, Grand Hyatt Seoul is excited to announce the introduction of the completed renovation of all 615 guestrooms and suites. The newly renovated Grand Hyatt Seoul returns to market as the city's premier destination, celebrating the glamour of luxury travel, providing guests an abundance of dramatic, highly memorable experiences. To minimise disruption, this comprehensive refurbishment of all guestrooms and suites was sequenced over a three-year period, culminating in the recent completion of the hotel's 53 premier suites on its uppermost floors. Renovated guestrooms are more open in feel, allowing natural light to flood the spaces while enveloping guests with breathtaking views from the moment they enter. The window-side sofas and generously sized tables invite guests to work, dine or relax as they gaze across the spectacular views of Seoul. Room layouts have been adjusted to reflect changes in guest expectations with contemporary room designs, while still maintaining the distinctive golden-oak finishes and clean lines of John Morford's original design, complimented by new, subtle references to Korean culture. The renovations provided the opportunity for the hotel to integrate the latest in technology into the rooms, providing today's traveler with the ultimate in convenience, efficiency and modern comforts. Rooms on the 15th to 18th premium floors, feature a custom-designed semi-translucent glass panel between the bathroom and bedroom, connecting the two areas and maximizing the overall sense of space while allowing the natural light and views to penetrate the bath area. Based on the geometric patterns found in traditional Korean bojagiwrapping cloth, the room's striking panels add a native artisanal element to the space, serving as a luminous lantern at night. Original art in the form of timeless fish-themed ink brush paintings, a symbol of good luck in Korea, grace each guest room. After 40 years of accommodating visiting royalty, heads of state, celebrities and captains of industry, Grand Hyatt Seoul was well equipped to understand the discerning needs of its VIP guests in a suite. As the hotel embarked on the total renovation of its most luxurious suites, it drew on its vast treasure trove of accumulated guest knowledge to conceive the perfect combination of space and amenities. Today's portfolio of entirely transformed suites include Diplomatic, Ambassador and Presidential Suites, all uniquely designed by the award-winning Bar Studio. Both the Ambassador and Presidential Suites can be interconnected through a Grand Executive Suite, providing VIP guests with additional space for a secretary's office, private gym, styling room or media-communications 'strategy-room'. The 91-square-meter Diplomatic Suite bathed in sophisticated dark tones and punctuated with burgundy, chartreuse and Prussian blue, features a separate living room with dining area. Meanwhile in the marble bathroomdominated by a freestanding elliptical tubbojaji-patterned glass forms a distinctive shower stall with the ceiling hosting a dramatic lighting fixture of antiqued mirrored glass. On the penthouse floor, the massive 200-square-meter Ambassador Suite has been structurally reconfigured to maximize the views, maintaining a distinct separation between its public and private quarters. The private wing can be separated completely and accessed through a discrete second entrance, allowing the public spacesa living room with study area, dining-cum-meeting room, kitchen and powder roomto be used as a standalone event space for meetings, product launches and entertaining. The Presidential Suite more than lives up to its name, having played host to numerous presidents, royalty and heads of state over the decades. Throughout the vast 337-square-meter suiteblessed with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Han River and Mount Namsanthe original architectural features, columns and moldings have all been retained while the suite's luxurious new finishes, fittings and furnishings create a new, fresh and sophisticated aesthetic. Entering via an antechamber, guests are greeted by a spacious entrance hall which leads to a study with a living area and working fireplace. From this central reception area, the suite branches off into luxurious private quarters, a guest WC and a large living room with bar, subsequently leading to a dining room for 12 and a fully equipped kitchen. In the private wing, guests will discover a bedroom with a separate lounge area, dominated by a striking hand-painted wallcovering above the bed's headboard. Elsewhere, guests can luxuriate in the extra-large walk-in wardrobe closet, a private fitness area and an indulgent bathroom, paved with an opulent, marble mosaic floor, and equipped with twin showers, a free-standing, stone whirlpool tub and vanity areas, all beneath a spectacular chandelier. Pipeline 28 May 2019 23 May 2019 Construction of Isle Of Man's First Premier Inn Hotel Completes Dandara, the award-winning property developer, has successfully handed over the Isle of Man's first Premier Inn hotel to Whitbread, Premier Inn's parent company. Situated on Market Street in Douglas, the new 85-bedroom Premier Inn hotel and Thyme restaurant will open its doors to customers on 24 June - with advance bookings currently being taken on the premierinn.com website. The six-storey hotel was granted planning permission in September 2017. Whitbread worked closely with the Isle of Man Job Centre and University College Isle of Man to recruit 35 new team members to work at the new hotel and restaurant. The new team will shortly start Whitbread's industry leading training programme and benefit from its ongoing apprenticeship and career advancement opportunities once the hotel opens. Now Open 28 May 2019 Welcome to the all-new Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston in the heart of the chic Back Bay neighbourhood, just steps from Symphony Hall, Newbury Street, Copley Plaza, Fenway Park and so much more. The soaring glass skyscraper - now the city's third tallest building and its highest residences at 724 feet or 220 metres - was designed by Henry Cobb of Pei Cobb Freed & Partners in collaboration with Gary Johnson of Cambridge Seven Associates. Surrounding the elliptical "guitar pick" shaped building are streetscapes by landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh. Bill Rooney of Bill Rooney Studio Inc was commissioned to drive the design aesthetic of the Hotel's public spaces and guest rooms. Surrounded by luxury shopping, major businesses and world class art and music venues, Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston is also just steps from myriad city parks and leafy green spaces - and all just 15 minutes from Logan International Airport. World Renowned Zuma Restaurant Debuts in Boston Global dining sensation Zuma has arrived in Boston at One Dalton Street in a space that is as much a feast for the eyes as the menu is for the palate. Tokyo-based Noryoshi Muramatsu of Studio Glitt created a space inspired by the four elements of earth, fire, water and air and includes gigantic stone boulders from Thailand among richly textured furnishings lit by bamboo lanterns. The dishes themselves are designed to be shared from Zuma's three open kitchens: the main kitchen, sushi counter and robata grill. Leading the culinary team in collaboration with Corporate Executive Chef Oliver Lange is Chef Helmy Saadon, who comes to Boston by way of Zuma locations in Dubai, New York and Abu Dhabi. The culinary team has added many local touches to the menu, taking particular advantage of the Atlantic Ocean's bounty throughout the menu of skewers, tempura, sushi, sashimi, maki rolls and more. Zuma's bar features contemporary cocktails and more than 70 different sakes. Also located on the second floor is One + One with its floor-to-ceiling windows, an ideal place to start the day tucking into fresh and healthy favourites such as the strawberries and cream muesli and just-pressed juices, or for those who wish to indulge, Hotel Executive Chef Ellis Chong's signature chicken & waffles. The restaurant is also open for lunch, a welcome respite from a busy day of working, shopping or gallery hopping. As always, Four Seasons also offers a comprehensive 24-hour in-room dining menu for private meals or intimate entertaining. More to come: Back Bay's newest after work meetup for handcrafted cocktails and evenings over shared plates of modern New England fare with friends will be Trifecta Lobby Bar, located within Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston, opening soon. Introducing The Wellness Floor at One Dalton Spanning the entire 7th floor of Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston and boasting inspiring city views from its pool and workout areas, The Wellness Floor at One Dalton is a refuge from busy urban life welcoming Hotel guests, Four Seasons residents and day visitors. At its heart is the Spa, with five treatment rooms including a couple's suite. Wellness Manager McKenzie Cassidy's carefully designed menu of therapies is highlighted by Cryotherapy Relief, harnessing the power of extreme cold for short periods combined with massage to reduce inflammation. For the time strapped, or as an add-on to another treatment, Meditation 22 relaxes and rejuvenates in just 30 minutes through application of warm and cold touches accompanied by a meditative piano soundtrack that has been especially composed to induce deep relaxation. For couples, the side-by-side Love Alchemy experience is enhanced with two essential oils blended together on the spot to reflect the needs and desires of each individual. Also on The Wellness Floor is a fitness centre with state-of-the-art Precor equipment chosen by celebrity trainer and Four Seasons Global Fitness Advisor Harley Pasternak, and a salon offering hair, nail and makeup services. A 64 foot (20 metre) lap pool arcs along the building's curved windows, with lounges and chairs arrayed around for relaxation and taking in the views. Sky High Sophistication: Guest Rooms and Suites at Four Seasons The Hotel's 215 hotel rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, with every detail anticipating the needs and wants of modern travellers, from soundproofing between floors and rooms and precision-glazed windows to at-one's-fingertips in-room technologies. Original works selected from the Hotel's extensive art collection curated by Kate Chertavian are in every room and suite, as well as public spaces throughout Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston. Productive and Memorable: Meetings and Events at Four Seasons Boston's newest venue for business and social events offers seven spaces - two ballrooms with pre-function areas and five additional rooms - all filled with natural light. The remarkable shape of the Beacon and Clarendon Ballrooms welcomes sunshine by day and affords glittering views by night, while the St. James and Dartmouth Rooms have wrap-around terraces that invite creative event options as well as a welcome breath of fresh air during a long day of meetings. Event planners also have the option to book the entire suite of rooms on the third or sixth levels, affording complete privacy for their events. Expert Four Seasons staff work closely with meeting planners, event hosts and wedding couples to create one-of-a-kind events that are flawlessly executed to the tiniest detail. Supplier News 28 May 2019 SYDNEY, Australia - Local Measure, the leading customer experience platform for the hospitality industry, today released a commissioned Forrester Consulting study quantifying the Total Economic Impact and benefits of its real time feedback tool, Pulse. Forrester found that an organization that uses Pulse to manage and respond to customer feedback in real time obtained a return on investment (ROI) of up to 280 percent over three years. In addition, the study revealed that the organization that uses Pulse received $6.4 million in value over three years, with the technology beginning to pay back its users for their investment within only six months. These findings were based on an organization with 51 properties. "Research shows that online ratings and reviews are impacting every stage of the customer life cycle," according to the Forrester Consulting study. "The value of a real-time feedback tool goes beyond service recovery," said Jonathan Barouch, Chief Executive Officer at Local Measure. "The benefits shown in this Forrester study demonstrate the payoff across multiple facets of the customer experience including brand loyalty, employee efficiency, and the ability to gain direct communication channels with customers." Forrester's results reveal significant cost savings for those managing customer service teams and responsible for customer satisfaction scores. Among the potential operational efficiency benefits, Forrester found the following three-year financial impacts across a company with 51 properties: More than $2.65 million of increased revenue from improved customer experience. Each NPS [1] point gained above the industry average generates incremental revenue. The incremental revenue is generated by additional purchases, churn reduction and new sales driven by word of mouth. of increased revenue from improved customer experience. Each NPS [1] point gained above the industry average generates incremental revenue. The incremental revenue is generated by additional purchases, churn reduction and new sales driven by word of mouth. Service recovery costs can be reduced by $3 million . Collecting customer feedback in real-time has enabled the hotel team to reduce spend on service recovery. By addressing and resolving customers' issues quickly and more proactively, the interviewed organization found that they were able to offer lower-cost compensation to appease dissatisfied customers. . Collecting customer feedback in real-time has enabled the hotel team to reduce spend on service recovery. By addressing and resolving customers' issues quickly and more proactively, the interviewed organization found that they were able to offer lower-cost compensation to appease dissatisfied customers. Improved employee productivity saves $757,111. Resolving customer issues in real-time decreased the amount of time spent by managers reviewing and contacting customers who left negative reviews after their visits. The study assumes that Pulse has a positive impact on turning passive customers into promoters from creating better customer experiences and increased loyalty. According to one of the General Managers interviewed for the study, 80% of guests who interact on Pulse rate their stay more positively in the post-stay survey. The Total Economic Impact of Local Measure Pulse study was developed through extensive research into Local Measure's long-term customers. Learn more about the Forrester Total Economic Impact study or download a copy here. Additional Information: [1] Net Promoter and NPS are registered service marks, and Net Promoter Score is a service mark, of Bain & Company, Inc., Satmetrix Systems, Inc., and Fred Reichheld. Press Release 28 May 2019 Marriott Hotels announced today This Works as its new personal care amenity provider starting this month. This collaboration is the latest installment in Marriott Hotels' journey to inspire guests as they travel. Renowned for its natural and clean formulations This Works products are intelligently crafted to work in harmony with the body's circadian rhythms to optimize skin performance 24 hours a day. Advertisements Marriott Hotels, the iconic flagship brand of Marriott International, continues to find ways that enhance the travel experience for their guests. This Works collections such as In The Zone or In Transit are carefully curated to protect guests against the natural stressors that the body and hair are exposed to during travel. Other recent innovations from Marriott Hotels include the introduction of the Mind Menu in the M Club and integration of mobile-enabled innovations including check-in and check-out and F&B ordering. Marriott Hotels introduces This Works amenity product line Marriott International "Every touch point we have with our guests is an opportunity to enhance their travel experience," said Julius Robinson, Senior Vice President, Marriott Classic Premium Brands. "Marriott Hotels constantly seeks ways to help our guests be at their best. By offering products infused with live, naturally derived ingredients, we are helping them optimize their day with restorative products in the room." Launched in 2003, This Works' unique proposition provides clean skincare solutions formulated with proven, naturally-derived actives, and formulated without unnecessary chemicals. The brand's award-winning range of 24hr skin solutions provide exactly what your skin, your day and your lifestyle demands. The carefully curated Marriott collection of This Works amenities aims to help repair, protect and restore your body's balance. The in-room amenity kits will include: In the Zone Shower Gel & Body Lotion - A natural blend of Eucalyptus and Petitgrain essential oils help to rebalance and revitalize body and mind. The perfect shower-time treat to help you focus and feel at your best. - A natural blend of Eucalyptus and Petitgrain essential oils help to rebalance and revitalize body and mind. The perfect shower-time treat to help you focus and feel at your best. Clean Skin Face and Bath Bar - A natural blend of Frankincense and Patchouli gently cleanse and moisturize skin - A natural blend of Frankincense and Patchouli gently cleanse and moisturize skin In Transit Shampoo & Conditioner - infused with Citrus, Nutmeg and Ginger essential oils, this uplifting duo gently cleanse and soften hair - infused with Citrus, Nutmeg and Ginger essential oils, this uplifting duo gently cleanse and soften hair Deep Sleep Pillow Spray - a powerful Superblend of True Lavender, Wild Chamomile and Vetiver helps you fall asleep faster, naturally, and wake-up feeling and looking more refreshed. "Each This Works product is formulated with a Superblend of naturally derived, scientifically proven ingredients at therapeutic levels which are expertly blended and without the use of unnecessary chemicals, to work in harmony with the body clock to boost not only skin health and performance, but also overall wellbeing at every phase of the 24 hour day." said Dr. Anna Persaud, This Works CEO. "We understand the needs of the busy Marriott guests and we are delighted to enhance their stay from morning to night." This new collaboration comes off the heels of the introduction of the Mind Menu, a collection of snacks and beverages with active ingredients that will enhance the mind and body throughout the day, including the new Brain Boosters which are a series of "shots" aimed at helping you recharge and decompress from your day. The morning drinks are highly concentrated with ingredients designed to stimulate your mind and taste buds, and later paired with the Slumbershot, packed with ingredients to help you unwind and digest. About This Works With an international footprint encompassing Europe, North America, the Middle East, Asia & Australia, This Works is a smart, natural skincare brand that works in synchronicity with the body clock to maximise skin performance 24 hours a day. Combining its knowledge of the body clock and skin health with modern lifestyle learnings This Works develops skincare and wellbeing essentials that support a busy life, starting with a good night's sleep. At the heart of each This Works product is a Superblend - a powerful trio of natural actives, botanical oils and essential oils, each selected for their specific benefits and expertly blended without unnecessary chemicals to create, clean and targeted skincare that delivers with integrity. All products are free from phthalates, sulphates, synthetic colour and fragrance, parabens, GMOs, mineral oils, petrolatum and propylene glycol. Market leaders in the development of natural sleep solutions - with over four million pillow sprays sold worldwide - This Works' pillow sprays have been put through six independent user trials and clinical studies with over 900 participants. For more information about the brand and global stockists, visit www.thisworks.com. Supplier News 28 May 2019 Noble House Hotels and Resorts, Ltd., a hotel ownership and management group with an upscale portfolio of 20 distinct and visually captivating properties spanning the U.S., is making efforts to further enhance their data protection efforts by shifting from VENZA's Denali program to the more advanced Everest program. After 4 years of success utilizing Denali, the change brings a myriad of increased functionality and benefits to Noble House's fingertips. The VENZA Everest program addresses PCI requirements and helps hotels better safeguard their properties while satisfying compliance regulations; a natural progression increasing their existing security measures. The Everest package includes a policy template library, phishing campaigns, posters/job aids, webinars, internal vulnerability/breach scanning and data breach coverage. Additionally, 20 properties under the management of Noble House Hotels and Resorts will participate in PCI SAQ preparation, external ASV scanning (quarterly), endpoint protection, logging/alerting services and PCI SAQ portal access. "Expanding our relationship with Noble House is exciting and a testament to our focus on customer success," says VENZA's CEO and Chairman, Jeff Venza. "The name VENZA carries weight and brand trust with the properties so expanding services to include network scans, SAQ preparation along with other network security services will be a simple upgrade," said Venza. "Noble House requires a security vendor that is not only an approved Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) but also knows how to work with each of our properties on a unique basis guiding them to satisfy compliance," said Jason Moll, Vice President, Rooms & Technology at Noble House Hotels & Resorts. As always Noble House Hotels and Resorts properties will continue to focus on guest experience and satisfaction while VENZA will focus on keeping guests safe and protecting sensitive information. Come see us at HFTP's HITEC Minneapolis this year at booth #1420 and let us talk with you about crafting a unique data protection program to meet your organization's needs. About Noble House Hotels & Resorts, Ltd. A privately held company for more than 35 years, Noble House Hotels & Resorts, Ltd. was founded in 1979 by Owner and Chairman Patrick R. Colee as a commercial property development group, later transitioning in 1994 to the dynamic hospitality ownership and management company it is today. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington and continuously growing, Noble House owns and manages an upscale portfolio of 20 distinct and visually captivating hotel properties, over 50 restaurants, bars, and lounges, the Napa Valley Wine Train, and a collection of spas, marinas, and private residences throughout the U.S. and Canada. A range of beachfront resorts spanning California and Florida, luxury retreats in Jackson Hole, WY, British Columbia, and Colorado, and a collection of urban hotels in Seattle, San Francisco, and College Station, TX make up the diverse group of destinations. Built upon a philosophy that emphasizes location, distinction, and soul, Noble House Hotels & Resorts dedicates itself to creating and managing exceptional properties that celebrate the local destination that surrounds. For more information, visit www.NobleHouseHotels.com or call Noble House Hotels & Resorts at 877.NOBLE.TRIP. The citys third tallest building houses 160 Four Seasons Private Residences in addition to the 215-room Four Seasons Hotel Zuma, the stylish, globally-renowned contemporary Japanese restaurant, makes its New England debut at Four Seasons The Wellness Floor at One Dalton includes extensive spa, fitness and salon facilities, and a stunning indoor pool high above city streets The citys third tallest building houses 160 Four Seasons Private Residences in addition to the 215-room Four Seasons Hotel Welcome to the all-new Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston in the heart of the chic Back Bay neighbourhood, just steps from Symphony Hall, Newbury Street, Copley Plaza, Fenway Park and so much more. Our second location in Boston is truly a jewel in the Four Seasons portfolio, with its striking architecture, modern interiors and world class amenities setting the stage for a fully customised Four Seasons experience, says Christian Clerc, President, Worldwide Hotel Operations, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. "Each and every detail has been thoughtfully curated, designed to ensure guests enjoy the highest standards of quality and the most genuine and personal service - the markers of a Four Seasons experience the world over. The soaring glass skyscraper now the citys third tallest building and its highest residences at 724 feet or 220 metres was designed by Henry Cobb of Pei Cobb Freed & Partners in collaboration with Gary Johnson of CambridgeSeven Associates. Surrounding the elliptical guitar pick shaped building are streetscapes by landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh. Bill Rooney of Bill Rooney Studio Inc was commissioned to drive the design aesthetic of the Hotels public spaces and guest rooms. Commenting on the Hotels central location, General Manager Reed Kandalaft enthuses, In a city of so many historic treasures, its exciting to see the future emerging quite literally in new buildings like One Dalton Street, and even more so in the very fabric of the Back Bay neighbourhood, where Bostons past, present and future come together, with something new to experience at every turn. Surrounded by luxury shopping, major businesses and world class art and music venues, Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston is also just steps from myriad city parks and leafy green spaces and all just 15 minutes from Logan International Airport. Advertisement Be among the first to experience Bostons newest Four Seasons: A special Summer Opening Offer features 20 percent savings on the regular room rate from June 17 to September 6, 2019. For all reservations, call 1 800 819 5053 or book online. World Renowned Zuma Restaurant Debuts in Boston Global dining sensation Zuma has arrived in Boston at One Dalton Street in a space that is as much a feast for the eyes as the menu is for the palate. Tokyo-based Noryoshi Muramatsu of Studio Glitt created a space inspired by the four elements of earth, fire, water and air and includes gigantic stone boulders from Thailand among richly textured furnishings lit by bamboo lanterns. The dishes themselves are designed to be shared from Zumas three open kitchens: the main kitchen, sushi counter and robata grill. Leading the culinary team in collaboration with Corporate Executive Chef Oliver Lange is Chef Helmy Saadon, who comes to Boston by way of Zuma locations in Dubai, New York and Abu Dhabi. The culinary team has added many local touches to the menu, taking particular advantage of the Atlantic Oceans bounty throughout the menu of skewers, tempura, sushi, sashimi, maki rolls and more. Zumas bar features contemporary cocktails and more than 70 different sakes. Also located on the second floor is One + One with its floor-to-ceiling windows, an ideal place to start the day tucking into fresh and healthy favourites such as the strawberries and cream muesli and just-pressed juices, or for those who wish to indulge, Hotel Executive Chef Ellis Chongs signature chicken & waffles. The restaurant is also open for lunch, a welcome respite from a busy day of working, shopping or gallery hopping. As always, Four Seasons also offers a comprehensive 24-hour in-room dining menu for private meals or intimate entertaining. More to come: Back Bays newest after work meetup for handcrafted cocktails and evenings over shared plates of modern New England fare with friends will be Trifecta Lobby Bar, located within Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston, opening soon. Introducing The Wellness Floor at One Dalton Spanning the entire 7th floor of Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston and boasting inspiring city views from its pool and workout areas, The Wellness Floor at One Dalton is a refuge from busy urban life welcoming Hotel guests, Four Seasons residents and day visitors. At its heart is the Spa, with five treatment rooms including a couples suite. Wellness Manager McKenzie Cassidys carefully designed menu of therapies is highlighted by Cryotherapy Relief, harnessing the power of extreme cold for short periods combined with massage to reduce inflammation. For the time strapped, or as an add-on to another treatment, Meditation 22 relaxes and rejuvenates in just 30 minutes through application of warm and cold touches accompanied by a meditative piano soundtrack that has been especially composed to induce deep relaxation. For couples, the side-by-side Love Alchemy experience is enhanced with two essential oils blended together on the spot to reflect the needs and desires of each individual. Also on The Wellness Floor is a fitness centre with state-of-the-art Precor equipment chosen by celebrity trainer and Four Seasons Global Fitness Advisor Harley Pasternak, and a salon offering hair, nail and makeup services. A 64 foot (20 metre) lap pool arcs along the buildings curved windows, with lounges and chairs arrayed around for relaxation and taking in the views. Sky High Sophistication: Guest Rooms and Suites at Four Seasons The Hotels 215 hotel rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, with every detail anticipating the needs and wants of modern travellers, from soundproofing between floors and rooms and precision-glazed windows to at-ones-fingertips in-room technologies. Original works selected from the Hotels extensive art collection curated by Kate Chertavian are in every room and suite, as well as public spaces throughout Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston. Productive and Memorable: Meetings and Events at Four Seasons Bostons newest venue for business and social events offers seven spaces two ballrooms with pre-function areas and five additional rooms all filled with natural light. The remarkable shape of the Beacon and Clarendon Ballrooms welcomes sunshine by day and affords glittering views by night, while the St. James and Dartmouth Rooms have wrap-around terraces that invite creative event options as well as a welcome breath of fresh air during a long day of meetings. Event planners also have the option to book the entire suite of rooms on the third or sixth levels, affording complete privacy for their events. Expert Four Seasons staff work closely with meeting planners, event hosts and wedding couples to create one-of-a-kind events that are flawlessly executed to the tiniest detail. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource New global brand campaign celebrates Sofitel's French roots, offering a modern spin on design, gastronomy, arts & culture, well-being and more As the first international luxury hotel brand to originate from France, Sofitel Hotels & Resorts is a renowned global ambassador of French style and art de vivre. In celebration of the brand's birthplace and heritage, Sofitel is launching a new global brand campaign that reaches deeper into its French roots. Live The French Way, the campaign's brand promise, pays homage to Sofitel's French origin, demonstrates the eternal allure of French style, and reinforces the brand's time-honored position as an ambassador of French art de vivre around the world. "The goal of Live the French Way is to reinforce Sofitel's position in the luxury segment and leverage its inherent strengths, while also differentiating the brand from its competitors and injecting a sense of modernity into the brand. We think guests will be delighted to experience authentic French touches through an immersive and luxurious journey into Sofitel's world, wherever they may travel," said Steven Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer, Accor. The brand campaign, which will introduce new programming and guest experiences throughout the year, was co-created with BETC ETOILE ROUGE, a full-service Paris-based agency offering strategic, creative, and production expertise for luxury, fashion, beauty and hospitality brands. The campaign integrates the finest of French passions, with exclusive and inspired collaborations in film, music and food. Celebrated photographer and director Charlotte Wales was engaged to design a film where worldly voyageurs dive into chic and whimsical experiences. Shot on location in France and China, the campaign invites Sofitel guests to experience the French way of living in an authentic and indulgent way. Charlotte's ethereal images make use of soft lighting and subtle composition, pushing her subjects to the forefront in the most sophisticated manner. The voice of the Live the French Way campaign is none other than France's most au courant pop icon, Clara Luciani. Influenced as much by Francoise Hardy as by Nico or Patti Smith, Clara is a highly creative, prolific and endearing artist, and has written some of the most illuminating songs in recent French music. Clara's original track, "En Voyage" was written and recorded exclusively for Sofitel. One of the most extraordinary elements of Live the French Way, will be the introduction of Les Diners Extraordinaires, reinforcing Sofitel's French culinary heritage with a supremely luxurious touch. Celebrity Chef Yannick Alleno will create once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences, presenting the best of modern French cuisine in spectacular, culturally rich settings all over the world. Keeping with the brand's free-spirited persona, guests will not discover the exact dinner location until they arrive, providing a spontaneous, joyful and elegant experience of arts de la table. The campaign will also come to life on social networks through the hashtag #LiveTheFrenchWay. Posts from the brand and its hotels will showcase the glamorous, chic and spontaneous nature of French style, with guests and travelers encouraged to share their best Sofitel experiences as well. A supporting media plan, which will be introduced in 2020, will complement the Live The French Way global roll out and activities. "Sofitel is a global ambassador of French savoir-faire and art de vivre," said Joao Rocco, Vice President, Luxury Brand Management, Sofitel Brands. "Our 'Frenchness' is the attribute most frequently praised by our guests and most often mentioned within their feedback, so we know that our culture is important to them. Our unique sense of joie de vivre is felt at our hotels in more than 40 countries across five continents, and it's a defining element that has become the signature of our brand." Modern luxury voyageurs are invited to eat, sleep, enjoy, travel, stay, celebrate and Live the French Way at Sofitel Hotels & Resorts through the brand passions of design, gastronomy, art & culture, and well-being. Upon arrival, guests are greeted in French by Sofitel staff wearing made-to-measure designs created by Parisian-based fashion designer Lea Peckre. Senses are awakened by the wafting scent of Essence de Sofitel, a gorgeous fragrance created by renowned perfumer Lucien Ferrero, which wafts through the hotel lobby and public spaces. Sofitel Sound Signature by DJ Mosey sets a sultry and insouciant atmosphere. In the late afternoon, guests indulge in Le Gouter or L'Aperitif in the hotel bars, followed by Gastronomie Francaise in the dining rooms. With a characteristically light French touch, Sofitel will continue to offer a whirlwind of culturally fascinating events all year long, from photography exhibitions and fashion week events, to glittering, star-studded La Nuit by Sofitel parties, to Fete de la Musique celebrations around the summer solstice, and Sofitel Wine Days during the annual French wine harvest. A partnership with Diner en Blanc in North America invites Sofitel guests to skip the wait lists and enjoy a VIP experience within one of the most sought-after French cultural events in the world. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource UK Chain Hotels Market Review - April 2019 Hotels in the UK suffered their largest margin of year-on-year profit decline since late 2016, as ancillary revenues fell and costs soared in April, according to the latest data tracking full-service hotels from HotStats. The 10.0-percent YOY decline in GOPPAR, to 43.22, was far greater than the 1.0-percent decrease in RevPAR, which came in at 87.39 for the month. Revenue declines were felt across all departments, including YOY declines in Food & Beverage (down 6.4 percent) and Conference & Banqueting (down 14.2 percent) revenue, on a per-available-room basis. As a result, hotels in the UK suffered a decline in TRevPAR for the first time in 2019, falling by 2.6 percent to 131.97. YTD TRevPAR is still 0.2-percent above the same time last year, at 125.63. Declining top-line performance was further hit by ongoing increases in costs, which included a 2.8-percent YOY uplift in payroll to 41.16 per available room, equivalent to 31.2 percent of total revenue. The drop in profit was the largest YOY decline in this measure since October 2016 when GOPPAR fell by 11.6 percent. And April was only the second monthly YOY decrease in achieved average room rate since October 2016, falling by 0.8 percent to 113.30. Profit & Loss Key Performance Indicators - Total UK (in GBP) April 2019 v. April 2018 RevPAR: -1.0% to 87.39 TRevPAR: -2.6% to 131.97 Payroll: +2.8% to 41.16 GOPPAR: -10.0% to 43.22 "Whether or not unfinished Brexit is to blame, the hope is that the profit deflation this month is an exaggerated blip due to the timing of Easter, rather than something more ominous," said Michael Grove, Director of Intelligence and Customer Solutions, EMEA, at HotStats. The leisure-led Stratford-upon-Avon hotel market was one location to benefit from the timing of Easter, as events in key visitor attractions across the town, including the RSC Theatre and Guildhall, helped fuel a 10.3-percent YOY increase in RevPAR to 64.30, as the recovery in the market in 2019 continues apace. However, and in spite of a 2.8-percent increase in ancillary revenues contributing to a 7.0-percent increase in TRevPAR, revenue growth in the month was impacted by a 10.9-percent YOY increase in payroll on a per-available-room basis to 42.40. As a result, profit per room at hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon fell by 1.2 percent to 28.62. This is equivalent to a profit conversion of 26.0 percent of total revenue. Profit & Loss Key Performance Indicators - Stratford-upon-Avon (in GBP) April 2019 v. April 2018 RevPAR: +10.3% to 64.30 TRevPAR: +7.0% to 109.92 Payroll: +10.9% to 42.40 GOPPAR: -1.2% to 28.62 In contrast to the wider UK, it was a positive month of performance for hotels in Reading, with a 4.2-percent YOY increase in RevPAR to 62.08, contributing to a 16.4-percent increase in profit per room and the ongoing upward trajectory in GOPPAR in the town. The increase in profit was supported by an eighth consecutive month of ARR growth to 89.69, and a sixth consecutive month of room occupancy growth to 69.2 percent. Profit & Loss Key Performance Indicators - Reading (in GBP) April 2019 v. April 2018 RevPAR: +4.2% to 62.08 TRevPAR: +6.6% to 114.09 Payroll: +0.9% to 35.43 GOPPAR: +16.4% to 39.95 HotStats provides two reporting tools to hoteliers: Our unique profit and loss benchmarking service which enables monthly comparison of hotels performance against their competitors. It is distinguished by the fact that it provides in excess of 100 performance metric comparisons covering 70 areas of hotel revenue, cost, profit and statistics providing far deeper insight into the hotel operation than any other tool. Our latest innovation in daily revenue intelligence, MORSE. Amongst its reporting are daily and highly granular market segmentation metrics as well as distribution channel and source of booking analysis. It takes daily market intelligence to a whole new level. For more information contact: Enquiries +44 (0) 20 7892 2241 enquiries@hotstats.com Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource The Air Jordan "Reflections of a Champion" collection unexpectedly released via Nike SNKRS on Tuesday afternoon - but there's no need to fret if you failed to cop any of the three reflective Air Jordans. The trio of kicks will be available again on June 8 via major retailers such as Foot Locker, Eastbay and Finish Line. The celebratory collection consists of the Air Jordan 6, Air Jordan 7 and Air Jordan 8 - the sneakers worn by Michael Jordan during his first three-peat with the Chicago Bulls. https://www.instagram.com/p/ByBAM4NA89V Playing into the "Reflections" theme, each of the special edition sneakers are covered in 3M reflective materials. The Air Jordan 6 includes elements of the iconic "Infrared" colorway, while the Air Jordan 7 and Air Jordan 8 nod to the "Cardinal" and "Bugs Bunny" colorways, respectively. Take a closer look at the Reflections of a Champion pack below and stay tuned for a list of stores that'll have the sneakers in stock next month. Click here for a preview of the rest of Jordan Brand's Summer lineup. https://www.instagram.com/p/BwD6oL_BUKd https://www.instagram.com/p/BxZIIELJkDP Jaylin and a 23-year-old woman were standing in the 200 block of West 113th Street when they were shot in a drive-by attack around 2:15 p.m., police said. Jaylin was hit in the head, abdomen and lower body, and was pronounced dead at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn. The woman was also taken there in serious condition with a gunshot wound to the chest. If you plan on smuggling cocaine back into your country, you should probably either think about finding other ways to get your side hustle on. If you persist on going through with your original plans, this is definitely not the way to go about your drug-smuggling business. During a flight from Sonora, Mexico to Japan, a Japanese man started having seizures shortly after the plane took off. The pilot was forced to make an emergency landing and according to BBC, the man was declared dead. Identified as Udo N, the man started his journey in Colombia before flying back to his native Japan. He was reportedly attempting to smuggle an insane amount of cocaine into the country by ingesting nearly 250 baggies of the drug. https://twitter.com/_/status/1132756813932244992 According to a statement issued by the Sonora attorney general, a total of 246 bags of cocaine were found inside the man's stomach and intestines after an autopsy was performed. The bags were each 2.5 cm long and 1 cm wide. His official cause of death has been ruled as a cerebral edema due to a drug overdose. Like I said, if you plan on smuggling drugs across the border, you're probably not making the best decision. But if you do, don't be out here eating 246 bags of cocaine. That ain't a good look. Los Angeles Lakers fans haven't had much to be happy about this season, but those disgruntled fans should be pleased to know that Jordan Brand still has plans to release a special edition "Lakers" Air Jordan 13 this Summer. Judging from the early images, the kicks will come dressed in a predominately white, tumbled leather upper equipped with purple detailing and a black outsole beneath it all. Jordan Brand has released several team-specific Air Jordans over the years, including those of MJ's many rivals, but the purple and gold has never before been applied to the Air Jordan 13. According to sneaker source @Zsneakerheadz, the "Lakers" Air Jordan 13 is scheduled to drop sometime in July, with some rumors suggesting a July 20 release date. Scroll through the IG post embedded below for a closer look at the upcoming colorway, and stay tuned for official release details. https://www.instagram.com/p/Bx-8PPVltow Supreme has been known to collaborate with Jordan Brand in the past with their most infamous collaboration coming in the form of the Air Jordan 5. The brand is now deep into their Spring/Summer 2019 season and they have been teasing yet another collaboration with Jumpman that will see the Air Jordan 14 release in two basic colorways. The first model is all white with black and red highlights, while the second version is all black with some blue details on the midsole. There is no exact release date for either of these shoes but according to the reliable Instagram account @zsneakerheadz, it appears as though a price has been determined, albeit, it hasn't been confirmed by either JB or Supreme. In the post below, it is revealed that the shoe could cost $248 USD which is a figure consistent with Supreme's bizarre prices. By bizarre, we don't mean expensive. Instead, we mean the figures representing their prices are usually ultra-specific as opposed to using rounder numbers like $250. Based on the image below, you can also see that the back of the shoe will have the number 23 with a Jumpman and Supreme logo above it. YG's never shied away from speaking on his affiliation with the Bloods. Red is a common color he uses in his artistic aesthetic and he's constantly seen with a red bandana at any occasion. However, it looks like he's refusing to have his affiliation with the street gang brought up in court for the Las Vegas assault case. Kevin Winter/Getty Images According to The Blast, YG told the court that there are certain questions he refuses to answer by the man who claimed the rapper assaulted him in an alleged assault that took place in Las Vegas. The rapper was sued last year by a man named Benjamin Naderi who claimed YG beat him up for asking him for a picture before robbing him. Specifically, YG refuses to answer any questions from Benjamin Naderi aregarding alleged affiliations with the Bloods street ganga or about his prior felonies. The rapper explained that there's still a criminal case against him in Nevada over the alleged incident. He said that if he answers any of Naderi's questions regarding the incident, it could harm his defense in the case. Ultimately, YG denies any sort of responsibility for the assault. Aside from his suit, YG finally released his new album, 4REAL 4REAL last week which he dedicated to the late Nipsey Hussle. Additionally, he mentioned during his press run, he revealed that he has something "special" on the way with the late rapper. Luxury vehicle owners are often worried that when they have to turn over the keys to their carsfor instance, to a valet, perhapsthat somehow, someone will go out for a joy ride. While that may be a scenario that plays out in the movies, we don't hear of it happening as often in real life. However, it doesn't mean it doesn't go down and Yo Gotti, unfortunately, got himself caught up in a legal battle after he claims an auto shop employee went cruising around in his 2012 Lamborghini Aventador. According to The Blast, Gotti purchased the car years ago for $409,198.70. He claimed that he sent the car over to Motorcars of Georgia in Atlanta to be serviced as there were repairs needed to the accelerator, transmission, and clutch. He never gave permission to anyone to operate the Lambo outside of moving it around the shop as needed for servicing, yet an employee just had to get behind the wheel. When they did, the auto shop worker got into an accident and crashed into a tractor-trailer. The luxury ride was said to have $390,000 worth of damages. Motorcars of Georgia said that they didn't do anything wrong because the accident was caused by a third party and it was beyond their control, but Gotti took them to court. An Atlanta jury sided with the rapper, partially, and awarded him 17% of the cost of damages. The auto shop was ordered to pay up $66,300. Check out the whip in Gotti's music video for "F*ck Em" below. Summer living is supposed to be easy, according to George Gershwin, but millions of air passengers during this years peak travel season may beg to differ thanks to a confluence of events that are making airlines and airports nervous.The U.S. carriers trade group, Airlines for America, estimates that a record 257.4 million people will fly from June 1 through the end of August, the tenth consecutive summer increase. Those throngstotaling on average 2.8 million people each daywill confront two unique challenges: the possible reassignment of hundreds of aviation security personnel to the Mexican border, and the continued worldwide grounding of Boeings 737 Max. Airlines are expected to be robustly profitable during the summer season, a period when heavy demand keeps fares higher and planes fuller than during other parts of the year. But this year, all bets are off. Regulators are still investigating the safety of the 737 Max following two crashes over five months that killed a total of 346 people. Three of the four largest U.S. carriers are grappling with how to cover their busy summer schedules with the loss of six dozen Boeing Co. 737 Max aircraft. The lack of those planeswhich many airlines purchased to be their new workhorse of the skiesadds further pressure to carriers and customers at a time when the air travel system traditionally operates at full throttle. Mario Tama/TNS American Airlines Group Inc., Southwest Airlines Co. and United Continental Holdings Inc. have removed the Max from their schedules through August, leaving thousands of passenger flights to be covered at a time of year when virtually no seats fly empty. (Canadas two largest airlines also have 37 Max aircraft between them.)On Friday, United said it would cancel 2,410 flights in June and July due to the grounding as it extended its Max-free schedule to Aug. 3. Southwest, the largest Max operator with 34, has put Aug. 5 on its schedule as a placeholder for the Maxs return to the fleet; American has set Aug. 19, the date that carrier sets as the unofficial close of its peak season. American said the Max grounding is causing 115 daily flight cancellations; Southwest has about 4,000 daily flights but hasnt detailed how many daily cancellations it sees this summer due to the troubled plane. And theres no telling when it will be cleared to fly again. The FAA and its regulatory counterparts from 31 nations gathered in Fort Worth, Texas last week. The general consensus was that its too early to set any time frame on when the plane may return to commercial service. The Department of Homeland Security, meanwhile, is mulling plans to transfer dozens of air marshals and as many as 400 airport screeners from the Transportation Security Administration to assist with ongoing border operations in the southern U.S. The proposalsalong with an administration plan to divert more than $230 million from the TSA to border functionshas stirred consternation among airlines, unions and airports over the collateral damage they may cause, alongside the general debate over President Donald Trumps immigration policies. As the busy summer travel begins, it couldnt be a worse time [to] undermine important safety programs and endanger the safety, security and comfort of the traveling public, Sara Nelson, the president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, said last week. The U.S. Travel Association has also sounded the alarm about the potential for airport chaos if too many TSA staffers volunteer to take on unspecified work at the U.S.-Mexico border. In a May 23 letter to TSA officials, the ranking members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, Republican Roger Wicker of Mississippi and Democrat Maria Cantwell of Washington, said they have concerns about the potential impact such moves could hold for aviation security. TEXAS INC. | NEWSLETTER Get Texas business news updates from behind the scenes each weekday. See More Collapse The DHS said in an emailed statement that it will seek minimize the impact of the administrations volunteer effort by limiting participants from airports that are already stretched thin. Denver oil company Discovery Natural Resources is finding success by drilling in the Permian Basins Spraberry field. The company is seeking permission from the Railroad Commission to Texas to drill 10 horizontal wells targeting the West Texas geological layer in Reagan County to a total depth of 8,500 feet. The drilling project is in the companys Bullhead lease about 10 miles northeast of Big Lake. Discovery produced more than 3.8 million barrels of oil and nearly 27.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas in 2018. More than 90 percent of that oil and more than 81 percent of that natural gas came from the Spraberry. Permian Basin Fort Worth saltwater disposal well developer Boykin Energy is seeking to drill 10 injection wells on its Boatfield SWD lease in Reeves County. Located less than a mile northwest of Orla, the vertical wells target the Olds field of the Delaware geological layer down to a depth of 6,000 feet. Eagle Ford Shale Former Occidental Petroleum CEO Steve Chazen continues to find success with his new company in South Texas. Chazens new venture, Magnolia Oil & Gas, plans to drill one horizontal well targeting the Austin Chalk geological layer in Fayette County and another seven targeting the Eagle Ford in Karnes County. The wells have a depth of 12,000 feet. Haynesville Shale More Information Top 10 Drillers in Texas by Permits (Wednesday, May 15 though Tuesday, May 21) Exxon Mobil: 20 Pioneer Natural Resources: 17 Diamondback Energy: 15 Apache Corp.: 13 Chevron: 11 Boykin Energy: 10 Discovery Natural Resources: 10 Magnolia Oil & Gas: 8 Shell: 8 Devon Energy: 7 Source: Railroad Commission of Texas See More Collapse Frisco-based Comstock Oil & Gas plans to drill a horizontal gas well on its Ambercrombie Vicent H lease in Harrison County. Located about 2 miles southwest of Waskom, the well targets the Carthage field of the Haynesville Shale down to a total depth of 13,000 feet. Barnett Shale A subsidiary of French oil company Total plans to go horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing inside the city limits of Cleburne. Working from a drilling pad on its NLBS lease off West Henderson Street, the company intends to target the Newark East field of the Barnett geological layer at a total depth of 9,000 feet. The horizontal portion of the well ends nearly a mile away underneath the Cross Creek Estates neighborhood. Conventionals Dan A. Hughes Co. plans to drill for oil about 50 miles southwest of Houston. The Beeville oil company is seeking permission to drill a vertical well on its Dahco-Yelderman lease in Brazoria County. Located about a mile northwest of Damon, the well targets the Damon Mound East field down to a depth of 6,000 feet. Tirrell said molecular engineering is not as well studied within established engineering schools. The U. of C. will benefit, he said, from not having to retrofit this program into an existing school, which will allow his team to explore new methods of teaching and research. The former executive pastry chef of La Table restaurant has opened his own bakery, Magnol French Baking, now open at 1500 North Post Oak in the Spring Branch neighborhood. Chef Otto Sanchez's bakery uses only organic flours to create baguettes and boules at his wholesale and retail shop. Magnol represents a dream come true for Sanchez who left Houston in 2005 (at the time he was with 17 Restaurant at the former Alden Hotel) to improve his skills. He worked for chefs Alain Ducasse at Mix in Las Vegas, Joel Robuchon in Las Vegas, Hotel Bardessono in Yountville, Calif., the Ritz-Carlton at Half Moon Bay, Calif., and Burj Al Arab in Dubai before returning to Houston at La Table. Sanchez assembled a team for Magnol that includes Matthieu Cabon, head baker and partner (from Brittany, France, his resume includes Joel Robuchon restaurants in Las Vegas and Jerome Bocuse concepts at Epcot Center in Orlando, Fla.) and Tina Blanco at pastry chef (her resume includes Four Seasons Hotel Houston, Omni Houston Hotel, River Oaks Country Club, Hotel ZaZa, Rainbow Lodge, and The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas, Wynn Las Vegas and Encore Las Vegas). RISE AND SHINE: Read Alison Cook's review of winning new Lebanese bakery/cafe "I left my home in Houston in 2005 to become the best chef and baker I could," Sanchez said. "I was committed to return home only when I had accumulated the experience and knowledge that would allow me to give back to Houston, by offering a world class bread and a world class operation to Houston's chefs and bread patrons." The bakery makes baguettes, seeded baguettes, epi breads, whole wheat baguettes, plain and seeded boules, batards, white and whole wheat loaves, and walnut and cranberry bread. The retail shop is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Greg Morago writes about food for the Houston Chronicle. Follow him on Facebook or Twitter. Send him news tips at greg.morago@chron.com. Hear him on our BBQ State of Mind podcast to learn about Houston and Texas barbecue culture. Frequently, Sally Munoz, a third-grade teacher at Duchesne Academy in Houston, asks her students to pause for a moment of mindfulness. Sometimes she tells them to focus on the way theyre sitting. Other times, they pay attention to their breath. Or maybe to the sounds around them: the whoosh of the air conditioner, someones cough, their neighbors breathing. Such meditative techniques focusing on the here and now, calmly noting feelings, thoughts and bodily sensations have been scientifically proven to have positive effects on adults brains. Now, a growing body of research indicates that such practices are good for kids and adolescents, too, helping to ward off anxiety, depression and inability to pay attention afflictions that increasingly start young in this era of mobile phones, social media and high-stakes tests. According to the National Institute for Mental Health, more than 30 percent of adolescents ages 13-18 have dealt with an anxiety disorder and nearly 13 percent have suffered major depression. We spend so much time as teachers asking kids to pay attention, said Munoz, who recently led a kids meditation class at the Houston Zen Center. But often we dont teach them how to pay attention. At DeBakey High School for Health Professions in Houston, researchers are in their third semester of studying the effects that 12 weeks of yoga and mindfulness classes have on ninth-graders. (Many forms of yoga include meditation and mindfulness.) IS YOUR CHILD BEING BULLIED? Here's what you can do Kids randomly assigned to the yoga class show significant benefits over the control group, said Kirti Saxena, director of the Pediatric Bipolar Disorders Program at Texas Childrens Hospital and associate professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Baylor College of Medicine. Teachers notice marked improvements in the yoga students posture and ability to focus. And the students say that the class helps them with their everyday lives: that they feel less stressed, that theyre more relaxed, that its fun. Saxena is particularly excited that some DeBakey students are practicing the yoga techniques theyve learned on their own: They say they have a new tool to deal with stress, and they like that they can do it at home for no cost. The benefits will be huge if they keep doing that. Three years ago, Alessandra Bazzano, a professor at Tulane Universitys School of Public Health, led a study at a relatively prosperous public elementary school in New Orleans. Daily yoga and mindfulness classes, she found, improved third graders well-being and emotional health. Her team began by testing the kids for anxiety disorders and found that a whopping 52 percent of them met the criteria. Even in a school with resources, she said, the kids were stressed out. Since then, shes begun similar studies of pre-K and eighth-grade students at other schools, where the need for mindfulness is just as great. Chronic stress, neighborhood violence and poverty get under the skin, she said. We can see that those stressors change structures in the brain. And those same physiological processes can be addressed through mindfulness and yoga. FEELING MATTERS: Here are two things to try when you can't sleep, on ReNewHouston.com. Scientists note that much remains unknown about teaching mindfulness and yoga to kids. For instance: What practices are best for addressing particular problems? And is there a best age to start? But in an era where research grants are scarce, funding is hard to come by. The scientists studies wont lead to a drug that can be patented. And public schools are already hard-pressed to afford old-school basics like Kleenex and librarians. For both Bazzano and Saxena, the yoga studies are passion projects done on a shoestring. At DeBakey, the study is a collaboration of DeBakey, Baylor College of Medicine, the Institute for Spirituality and Health, and Texas Childrens Hospital. But everyone involved, including Saxena and head yoga instructor Lex Gillan, is working as a volunteer. Saxena hopes someday to be able to afford to expand the program to other schools. If the kids can keep at it keep practicing outside the classroom, throughout their lives the benefits are huge. lisa.gray@chron.com ReNew Houston: Get a jump-start on Houstons newest source for healthy living. Sign up today. WASHINGTON - Mary Gerace has lived here since 1963 and loves it. But at 73, she worries that someday she may become too frail to stay in the rent-controlled third-floor walk-up apartment where she has lived for 42 years. Then, she fears, she won't be able to afford to remain in the city. "I'm fine now, thank goodness, but a surprise fall or a serious illness could change that," said Gerace, who retired three years ago from working in human resources at a small company. The low rent on her apartment, which she shares with her brother, enables her to own a car, eat out sometimes, and take occasional day trips. But local senior housing facilities she has looked into cost many times more than what she now pays, and far more than her savings would cover. "As I look around the Washington area, I realize that I'm going to have to look outside of here," possibly to another region of the U.S., she said. In the next decade, the number of seniors who are middle-income is projected to soar, and a large share of them will be unable to afford housing and care, according to a recent study published in the journal Health Affairs. Over the past 40 years the housing market for seniors has expanded widely, but new development has focused largely on higher-end facilities, said the report, which used data from the Health and Retirement Study, a national longitudinal study of people fifty and older sponsored by the National Institute on Aging and conducted by the University of Michigan. Seniors who have too much income to qualify for government-subsidized housing and don't make enough to live in a luxury development will be left behind. That could end up costing the government more money, said Beth Mace, an author of the study and chief economist at the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing and Care. "The fear is that if they're not served, they'll be required to spend down to Medicaid, which will put more pressure on our Medicaid coffers," she said, adding that the left-behind segment will include "schoolteachers, firefighters - the basic labor force." By 2029 the number of middle-income seniors is projected to nearly double, from 7.9 million to 14.4 million, said the study. (It also noted that after 2029, as the baby-boom generation age into their late 80s and 90s, the number of seniors needing additional care will grow even more dramatically.) The study defines middle-income seniors as people 75 to 84 who have between $25,000 and $74,000 a year, or between $25,000 and $95,000 a year for those 85 and older. Of those, 20 percent are projected to be "high needs" (having three or more chronic conditions and difficulties with one or more daily living activities) and 60 percent will have mobility limitations that may prevent them from living independently. For those without homes to sell or borrow against, the outlook is bleak: In 2029, 81 percent of middle-income seniors without equity in housing will have an annual income that is below the projected annual $62,000 for assisted living rent and estimated out of pocket medical spending, the study found. For those who do have housing equity, the numbers are still sobering: 54 percent will still be unable to pay for senior housing, the study found. "Even if we assume that seniors devote 100 percent of their annual income to seniors housing - setting aside any personal expenses - only 19 percent of middle-income seniors will have financial resources that exceed today's costs of assisted living," it said. The situation is the result of a perfect economic, sociological and policy storm that has been brewing for several decades. More Americans live alone than in the past and family sizes have shrunk, requiring people to be more self-reliant as they age. At the same time, life expectancy has risen, pension plans have become less common, and real estate prices have soared. In metropolitan areas such as Washington, D.C., where the cost of living is higher than the national average, the problem is especially acute. The region has some perks for older people, such as public transportation and a wide network of senior villages to help people age in place. But here and in other metro areas, new housing is often geared toward high-earning younger people, and few homes have design features that would allow older adults to age in place, such as wheelchair accessibility and levers instead of knobs, said Elizabeth White, author of "55, Underemployed, and Faking Normal: Your Guide to a Better Life," a book about older adults in financial jeopardy. "The suppliers are not yet responding to the market," White said. "You should be able to design a 300 to 400-square-foot space that is affordable rather than what is now on the market, which is generally targeting affluent millennials." The lack of affordable housing is a central concern for participants in the Aging Solo classes offered by Iona Senior Services, a nonprofit serving the DC area. "I can feel the tension rising" when the subject comes up, said Susan Messina, the organization's deputy director. "People talk about how 'I can't afford the Inglesides' -- a higher-end facility with multiple locations in the Washington area -- 'but I don't qualify for subsidized housing.' " Some senior residences require a six-figure initial buy-in just to move in, which residents often pay for by selling their homes. But for renters that is not an option, and for many homeowners, too, it is out of reach. Some are finding creative solutions, such as moving in with friends or taking in boarders. After their retail businesses collapsed during the 2008 recession. Susan Mitchell, 74, and her husband started renting out rooms in their house near American University, where they have lived for 32 years. They plan to continue doing so as long as they are in good health. But if that changes, she said, they don't know what they will do. If they were to need significant medical help, they worry the options in the area would be largely out of their price range. "We might have to go to a smaller town where I believe it's more affordable," said Mitchell, who used to work as office manager for their stores. She added, "We have - sort of in jest, sort of not - talked about having a commune with people we know." Mace said she hopes the study will spur policymakers and developers to be more creative too. For example, the study said, jurisdictions could offer incentives for developers to build more basic, less expensive housing and include lower-income housing in higher-end projects; senior housing could be structured to more formally involve family caregivers and other community members to offset staffing costs; Medicare could expand to cover more services; or Medicaid could widen its eligibility and coverage areas. "Our hope is to try and create the beginnings of conversations on solutions," Mace said. Facing opposition from the American Civil Liberties Union, for example, legislators dropped a provision that would make it a crime for school employees to have sexual contact with a student regardless of the students age. Instead, sex with a student will remain legal in Illinois if the student is older than 17 and no force is involved; in many other states, having sex with a student is a crime regardless of age because the teacher has power over the students future and is in a position of trust. WASHINGTON - After weeks of round-the-clock protests, police patrols and sometimes violent clashes, the Washington street on which the Venezuelan Embassy sits has returned to a quiet order. The protesters have gone. So, too, have banners that hung from the embassy's red-brick facade for more than a month, declaring "stop the coup." Police cars that dotted the Georgetown street have vanished. Activists on both sides of the showdown between supporters of President Nicolas Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido say their influence among diplomats and American lawmakers has increased markedly since their high-profile clash. Members of the Venezuelan diaspora established an organization to carry on the activism started in the street, and Code Pink organizers say demonstrators are joining their cause, inspired by what they saw. Even the building, now in the hands of Guaido's handpicked ambassador, Carlos Vecchio, was transformed. Vecchio said Friday that the structure suffered "a lot" of physical damage during the demonstrations. The building also became a symbol - and a trophy - in the international tug of war over Venezuela's political future. "Obviously, controlling the embassy in Washington is not the same thing as controlling the streets of Caracas," said Allen Weiner, director of Stanford University's program on international and comparative law. "But it's symbolically important." Code Pink and its supporters moved quietly into the building in early April. At the time, few seemed to notice, or care, said co-founder Medea Benjamin, except the few Maduro-appointed diplomats working inside. By day, demonstrators went about their routines under the watchful gaze of portraits of South American revolutionary Simon Bolivar. By night, they hosted events and guest speakers on a range of international topics. After Maduro's diplomats left - the State Department declined to renew their visas - Code Pink members remained in the building. That's when several Venezuelan nationals and Venezuelan Americans took notice. The first day members of the diaspora called for a counterprotest, organizers said, it was messy, reactionary and raw. The group hadn't planned to camp out around the clock. In fact, the pro-Guaido demonstrators hadn't really planned anything. "I have been protesting for years, and it used to be that someone would organize one protest and then we wouldn't hear anything from each other for months," said Dilianna Bustillos, who helped organize the pro-Guaido demonstrations at the embassy. "When we were suddenly there for two weeks, we started to really see what strengths we all had as individuals and as a group, and how we could leverage that to help further this cause." Outside the embassy, about 20 people in a newly formed group dubbed "Ask a Venezuelan" began to organize demonstrations, correspond with Vecchio's staff and respond to what organizers described as misinformation online. "The situation in Venezuela is extremely complex," Bustillos said. "It is extremely, extremely nuanced. That's what kind of spurred us into coming together, so we want to take all of these disparate resources and ideas and figure out how we can make it relatively easy for people who are interested in what's happening to understand what's happening." Inside the building, Code Pink and its allies said they were doing the same. "We think (national security adviser) John Bolton has misled Donald Trump and the country on the nature of the people of Venezuela," said Kevin Zeese, one of four demonstrators arrested and removed from the embassy on May 16. "A lot of our responsibility is to correct the misinformation." By the time officers hauled the four activists out of the building, the activists had expected their days inside were coming to a close. Days earlier, federal officials posted an eviction notice to the embassy door. Officers read the instructions over a loudspeaker each night, telling demonstrators inside that they were ordered to leave "immediately." The activists - Margaret Flowers, 56; Adrienne Pine, 48; David Paul, 69; and Zeese, 63 - were the last demonstrators of about 50 who had spent nights at the embassy since early April. Benjamin said that by staging the demonstration, activists were able to "engage in the broader issue" and attract the attention of lawmakers and the news media. "We knew it was a big deal when we started sleeping in this embassy, but I don't think we understood all the implications that have now come into play," she said. "Usually, we're standing in front of the White House, yelling and screaming, and nobody pays attention to us. But this is something real. Something significant." Benjamin, who describes herself as "anti-war" and not pro-Maduro, has said the heightened media attention gave Code Pink and others a platform to raise issues like U.S. military intervention and the Vienna Convention. Zeese, who dismissed assertions that Maduro is a dictator, said he believes the U.S. approach to Venezuela will become an issue in the 2020 presidential campaign. Code Pink and other groups already have shifted their focus toward lobbying members of Congress and the United Nations. "When you occupy a public space, you also occupy a part of the public dialogue," Zeese said. "This was an amazing event - to have U.S. citizens occupy space in a foreign embassy." Carla Barqueiro, a professor at Goucher College in Maryland who specializes in international relations and Latin America, said the embassy occupiers' decision to align themselves with Maduro may have hurt their cause and diluted their anti-intervention message. "There are real problems with their optics on that front," Barqueiro said. "It's important to be discussing neo-imperialism and what the best course of action ought to be. The problem is they're now connected with the Maduro government, and that's probably a mistake." It's unclear how the embassy showdown might influence American diplomatic relations with Venezuela and other nations, international law experts said, partly because what happened at the embassy was so unusual. American activist groups don't usually walk into a foreign embassy and declare themselves its rightful protectors, Weiner said. The United States, about 50 other nations and several international bodies, including the Organization of American States, recognize Guaido as Venezuela's interim president. Maduro, who was victorious last year in elections widely considered flawed, is recognized by Russia, China, Cuba and the United Nations. "Who gets to sit at the seat of Venezuela in the U.N. is going to be decided by the U.N. because it is the body that accredits representatives," Weiner said. "The question of who gets to sit in the Venezuelan Embassy in Washington, D.C., is going to be decided by the United States government." According to the Vienna Convention, police and other local officials cannot enter an embassy unless invited by the ambassador. Code Pink and left-wing activists from groups including the Answer Coalition and Popular Resistance accuse the United States of breaching international law by entering the locked embassy to arrest the activists inside. Their removal came at the request of Vecchio, Guaido's ambassador. The demonstrators were charged with interfering with State Department diplomatic functions, a federal crime punishable by up to a year in prison. "We felt we were the true embassy protectors - not the State Department," Zeese said. "We will continue to protect the embassy by pushing for a protecting power agreement." Such an agreement, in which a third-party country assumes control, and protection, of an embassy, is common when a country has ceased diplomatic relations with another. The trouble is, Weiner said, the United States has not cut diplomatic ties with Venezuela. It has merely shifted its recognition from Maduro to Guaido as the country's legitimate leader. On Friday, Vecchio posted photos online of himself in the embassy, unfurling the Venezuelan flag from a second-story window. Inside, his colleagues were assessing damage they said had been done to the building during the standoff. Vecchio raised a fist in the air as the flag flapped in the wind. "Venezuela libre," he said. Free Venezuela. WASHINGTON The strange objects, one of them like a spinning top moving against the wind, appeared almost daily from the summer of 2014 to March 2015, high in the skies over the East coast. Navy pilots reported to their superiors that the objects had no visible engine or infrared exhaust plumes but that they could reach 30,000 feet and hypersonic speeds. These things would be out there all day, said Lt. Ryan Graves, an F/A-18 Super Hornet pilot who has been with the Navy for 10 years and who reported his sightings to the Pentagon and Congress. Keeping an aircraft in the air requires a significant amount of energy. With the speeds we observed, 12 hours in the air is 11 hours longer than wed expect. In late 2014, a Super Hornet pilot had a near collision with one of the objects, and an official mishap report was filed. Some of the incidents were captured on video, including one taken by a planes camera in early 2015 that shows an object zooming over the ocean waves as pilots question what they are watching. Wow, what is that, man? one exclaims. Look at it fly! No one in the Defense Department is saying that the objects were extraterrestrial, and experts emphasize that earthly explanations can generally be found for such incidents. Graves and four other Navy pilots, who said in interviews with The New York Times that they saw the objects in 2014 and 2015 in training maneuvers from Virginia to Florida off the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, make no assertions of their provenance. But the objects have gotten the attention of the Navy, which this year sent out new classified guidance for how to report what the military calls unexplained aerial phenomena, or unidentified flying objects. JUSTIN T. GELLERSON/NYT Joseph Gradisher, a Navy spokesman, said the new guidance was an update of instructions that went out to the fleet in 2015, after the Roosevelt incidents. [MORNING REPORT | NEWSLETTER: Get all the news you need to start your day in Houston.] There were a number of different reports, he said. Some cases could have been commercial drones, he said, but in other cases we dont know whos doing this, we dont have enough data to track this. So the intent of the message to the fleet is to provide updated guidance on reporting procedures for suspected intrusions into our airspace. The sightings were reported to the Pentagons shadowy, little-known Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, which analyzed the radar data, video footage and accounts provided by senior officers from the Roosevelt. Luis Elizondo, a military intelligence official who ran the program until he resigned in 2017, called the sightings a striking series of incidents. ADAM FERGUSON/NYT The program, which began in 2007 and was largely funded at the request of Sen. Harry Reid, the Nevada Democrat who was the Senate majority leader at the time, was officially shut down in 2012 when the money dried up, according to the Pentagon. But the Navy recently said it currently investigates military reports of UFOs, and Elizondo and other participants say the program parts of it remain classified has continued in other forms. The program has also studied video that shows a whitish oval object described as a giant Tic Tac, about the size of a commercial plane, encountered by two Navy fighter jets off the coast of San Diego in 2004. Leon Golub, a senior astrophysicist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, said the possibility of an extraterrestrial cause is so unlikely that it competes with many other low-probability but more mundane explanations. He added that there are so many other possibilities bugs in the code for the imaging and display systems, atmospheric effects and reflections, neurological overload from multiple inputs during high-speed flight. Graves still cannot explain what he saw. In the summer of 2014, he and Lt. Danny Accoin, another Super Hornet pilot, were part of a squadron, the VFA-11 Red Rippers out of Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia, that was training for a deployment to the Persian Gulf. Graves and Accoin spoke on the record to The Times about the objects. Three other pilots in the squadron also spoke to The Times about the objects but declined to be named. Graves and Accoin, along with former U.S. intelligence officials, appear in a six-part History Channel series, Unidentified: Inside Americas UFO Investigation, to air beginning Friday. The Times conducted separate interviews with key participants. The pilots began noticing the objects after their 1980s-era radar was upgraded to a more advanced system. As one fighter jet after another got the new radar, pilots began picking up the objects but ignoring what they thought were false radar tracks. People have seen strange stuff in military aircraft for decades, Graves said. Were doing this very complex mission, to go from 30,000 feet, diving down. It would be a pretty big deal to have something up there. SPACE JUNK | NEWSLETTER Your source for out of this world news from Space City. See More Collapse But he said the objects persisted, showing up at 30,000 feet, 20,000 feet, even sea level. They could accelerate, slow down and then hit hypersonic speeds. Accoin said he interacted twice with the objects. The first time, after picking up the object on his radar, he set his plane to merge with it, flying 1,000 feet below it. He said he should have been able to see it with his helmet camera but could not, even though his radar told him it was there. A few days later, Accoin said, a training missile on his jet locked on the object, and his infrared camera picked it up as well. I knew I had it, I knew it was not a false hit, he said. But still, I could not pick it up visually. At this point the pilots said they speculated that the objects were part of some classified and extremely advanced drone program. TONY LUONG/NYT But then pilots began seeing the objects. In late 2014, Graves said, he was back at base in Virginia Beach when he encountered a squadron mate just back from a mission with a look of shock on his face. He said he was stunned to hear the pilots words. I almost hit one of those things, the pilot told Graves. The pilot and his wingman were flying in tandem about 100 feet apart over the Atlantic east of Virginia Beach when something flew between them, right past the cockpit. It looked to the pilot, Graves said, like a sphere encasing a cube. The incident so spooked the squadron that an aviation flight safety report was filed, Graves said. The near miss, he and other pilots interviewed said, angered the squadron and convinced members that the objects were not part of a classified drone program. Government officials would know fighter pilots were training in the area, they reasoned, and would not send drones to get in the way. It turned from a potentially classified drone program to a safety issue, Graves said. It was going to be a matter of time before someone had a midair collision. What was strange, the pilots said, was that the video showed objects accelerating to hypersonic speed, making sudden stops and instantaneous turns something beyond the physical limits of a human crew. Speed doesnt kill you, Graves said. Stopping does. Or acceleration. Asked what they thought the objects were, the pilots refused to speculate. We have helicopters that can hover, Graves said. We have aircraft that can fly at 30,000 feet and right at the surface. But combine all that in one vehicle of some type with no jet engine, no exhaust plume. Accoin said only that were here to do a job, with excellence, not make up myths. In March 2015 the Roosevelt left the coast of Florida and headed to the Persian Gulf as part of the U.S.-led mission fighting the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria. The same pilots who were interacting with the strange objects off the East coast were soon doing bombing missions over Iraq and Syria. The incidents tapered off after they left the United States, the pilots said. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. MANILA "I didn't expect this," gushed Ruffa Gutierrez as she was named best actress in the Philippine equivalent of the Oscars. The judges didn't expect it either. They thought they named someone else. Now the country's movie industry is in an uproar, and the scandal is the talk of the town. Mayor Alfredo Lim is threatening to throw Gutierrez in jail, and city fathers want to deport Viveka Babajee, who represented the Indian Ocean island nation Mauritius in last month's Miss Universe pageant. Advertisement It started Wednesday, when the Manila Film Festival honored the best in Philippine cinema at its annual awards ceremony, which was televised. As the drums rolled, actress Gretchen Barretto shouted "and the best actress for 1994 is...." She paused for Babajee to read the winner. Advertisement "Ruffa Gutierrez," Babajee blurted. Barretto's face froze. Her chin dropped. She glanced toward the judges with a look of shock. Next came best actor, another shocker: Gaby Concepcion, who co-starred with Gutierrez in a film version of the Lorena Bobbitt spouse-castration case. Gutierrez was one of two presenters of his award. Something was clearly amiss. Soon a representative of the accounting firm that had counted the votes and certified the winners told Lim the winners should have been actor Edu Manzano and actress Aiko Melendez. Lim then appeared on stage and announced that a "fraud has been perpetrated." But by then, live TV coverage was over and the apparent winners had disappeared with their trophies. Even the cue card with the winners' names, signed by officials of the accounting firm, has disappeared. Lim, a former Manila police chief known as the "Dirty Harry of the Philippines," has ordered a criminal fraud investigation and summoned all involved to a hearing in his office Monday. "Ruffa Gutierrez is neck-deep in trouble," Lim told The Manila Standard. The Manila city council has asked that Babajee be deported. On Saturday, a local TV station aired a slow motion replay of the ceremony. As the crowd cheered Gutierrez, Babajee could be heard on the microphone urging "take it, take it" to Gutierrez's brother, Rocky, who then appeared to slip the cue card into his pocket. The brother was part of the ceremony. Advertisement Barretto told reporters that the apparent hoax was masterminded by Concepcion's agent and by Gutierrez's mother, who is Babajee's agent. Barretto claimed she was promised the best actress award next year if she went along with the scam, but she refused. Both agents deny the allegations. The Lone Star College System, already the largest college in the state, is growing with the addition of a seventh campus. LSC-Houston North, made up of four different Lone Star centers, recently received accreditation approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Registration is open for students who want to enroll this fall, said Sheldon Moss, the chief strategist for the campus. Were taking LSC-Fairbanks, which is attached to the LSC-CyFair campus, LSC-Victory center and LSC-Greenspoint center, which are attached to the LSC-North Harris campus, and merging them to form a main campus. They wont be satellites anymore, Moss said, adding that LSC-Fallbrook will complete the campus when it is finished in 2020. Those four buildings once individual satellite centers will symbolically merge to operate as one college that will serve about 5,200 students initially. That number will grow to about 6,400 students when LSC-Fallbrook opens, system officials say. To make the center consolidation happen, the system plans to add a little more than $5 million to the campus budget over the course of the next three to four years to cover new staffing and equipment costs, bringing the newest campus budget up to more than $14 million in total. Moss said the purpose for LSC-Houston North is to address the educational attainment and socioeconomic disparities that exist in the locations around Beltway 8, which are also the farthest south locations for the system. Chancellor Stephen Heads vision for the project is to restructure and realign these locations to provide innovative practices and educational support for these communities, Moss said. Head said this will be one of the most unique colleges in the community, one that he hopes improves the success rates of African-American and lower-income students. We know what needs to be done and we know what the issues are, we just have to execute it, the chancellor said. Itll be a lot of hard work, but its a long-term reward. The system named Quentin Wright as the founding president of LSC-Houston North on May 10. Wright was selected after a national search, but hes been one of the projects planning committee members for the last year and a half in his former role as LSCs special assistant to the chancellor. Its an honor, and its very humbling. Im excited about the impact well be able to have on the community, Wright said. The new position, he added, feels like the fulfillment of a dream hes had since beginning his higher education career 17 years ago. Lone Star College Campuses LSC-CyFair: 9191 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress, 77433 LSC-Houston North: 4141 Victory Drive, Houston, 77088 LSC-Kingwood: 20000 Kingwood Drive, Kingwood, 77339 LSC-Montgomery: 3200 College Park Drive, Conroe, 77384 LSC-North Harris: 2700 W.W. Thorne Drive, Houston, 77073 LSC-Tomball: 30555 Tomball Parkway, Tomball, 77375 LSC-University Park: 20515 TX-249, Houston, 77070 For more information about campuses and programs, go to www.lonestar.edu. See More Collapse Wright is set to assume his duties June 15. Programs that will be offered at the new campus include biology, mechanical engineering, business management, welding and HVAC skills. English for speakers of other languages and General Education Development (GED) courses are also to be offered. Goals for the newest campus include increasing persistence rates of first-year students, meaning the percentage of students who continue on at any higher education institution after their first year, and achieving a three-year graduation rate of 25 percent by 2025. Moss said that is ambitious, but that goal combined with the wraparound services and programs now offered means that students can be successful. We look at it as a non-negotiable. We want to push students forward, provide extra support and help them continue on in school, Moss said. Some of the ways college officials are doing that is through putting students first, engaging with the community and implementing practices that are the best fit for the areas demographic. Our plan is to do some things differently with this college than was traditionally done at our other campuses, Moss added. This includes eight-week terms so students can accrue college credit more quickly, assigning faculty and staff mentors to first-year college students, and scheduling classes in morning, afternoon, evening or weekend blocks so students can accommodate their work schedules. We also realize that students face many other barriers that dont fall within the classroom, Moss said, barriers such as health care, mental health and food insecurity. Because of those extra issues, Moss said the college campus will have food pantries on-site as well as a partnership with Avenue 360 Health and Wellness at the Greenspoint location to more easily address the medical, social and emotional needs of students as well as community members. To develop these goals and programs, Moss said a group of 80 faculty and staff members got together in the fall of 2017 to form planning sub-committees to develop the campus mission and values. They also visited other successful institutions, such as Odessa College in west Texas, to learn what models work. Moss said everybody is excited for this project thats a big, big deal. We definitely want to be a college for the community, Moss said. We want to be a pillar for the community that were serving. Everybodys got their eye on this project. jane.stueckemann@chron.com Since its 2017 unveiling, the Foxconn project has been beset by negative news. By the end of last year, the company had spent only 1% of the amount it had pledged to build the factory and had hired only about 10% of the employees it anticipated hiring by the end of the project's first year. In June 2018, the company announced it was downgrading the plant from a Generation 10.5 facility to a Generation 6 plant, which would produce smaller LCD panels. In January, the company announced it was scrapping the LCD portion of the factory altogether, but it quickly backtracked after a call from Trump. On the evening of July 20, 2015, a security camera at a strip mall captured more than the usual cacophony of bustling businesses and passing traffic on a stretch of Bellaire Boulevard just outside Beltway 8. The cameras audio picked up ominous sounds coming from suite D, home of a cosmetology training school called Signature Beauty Show. A scream at 8:17 p.m. Another at 8:41 p.m. Four brief thumps. Then silence. The next morning, when the schools staff arrived for work, they found the body of their boss, 49-year-old Tuyet Tran, a Vietnamese-American businesswoman and mother of two who had recently separated from her husband. She had been bludgeoned to death. The case remained an unsolved murder for the next four years. Trans estranged husband, Trang Vu, blamed the death on a robbery. But he was blocked by a federal judge from collecting benefits from his wifes life insurance policy, and in a related civil filing, his childrens attorneys alleged he was the killer. On April 19, mere days before an important federal court hearing on the civil case, Vu, a 49-year-old truck driver, was arrested in Indiana and charged with murder by Harris County prosecutors. Vu, who has waived extradition, has maintained hes innocent and that a passerby attacked his estranged wife. Domestic violence help Michelle Tran, who works in Bellaire for the nonprofit Boat People SOS' domestic violence and family wellness program, said many women in Houston's Vietnamese-American community hesitate to report domestic violence. "From this generation to the next, it's been the husband who's the breadwinner, and if he gets home and the wife's cooking isn't up to par, or if she disobeys him, she'll face mistreatment." Tran who is a domestic violence survivor herself said she hopes to convince others to become survivors too. "I just want to educate the Vietnamese community here that life here is 50-50- it's 'if I cook then you do the dishes." She currently has 2,000 cases. Another therapist who frequently works with Vietnamese couples, Judy Nguyen of Nguyen and Associates Counseling Center, said many recent immigrants lack English skills and may be subjected first to mental and emotional forms of spousal abuse that can later become physical. Both advocates say they want Houstonians to know help is available in English, Vietnamese and other languages. BPSOS - Houston,11360 Bellaire Blvd., Ste. 910, Houston, TX 77072; 713-294-9106 (hotline) or 281-530-6888 (front desk) Nguyen and Associates Counseling Center, 7419 S Kirkwood Rd., Ste. A, Houston, TX 77072; 713-474-5303 Asians Against Domestic Abuse,9800 Town Park Drive; 713-339-8300 (24/7 help line) National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Additional local resources here: https://housingandcommunityresources.net/emergency-assistance/domestic-abuse/ See More Collapse Trans murder came after repeated episodes of abuse and gave him the opportunity to seek the life insurance benefits, the civil lawsuit alleged. Documents filed in the case paint a dark picture of a troubled marriage, domestic violence and death in Houstons Vietnamese community that will continue to play out now in Vus criminal case. Vu could not be reached for comment for this story. His civil attorney Casey Brown declined comment. On May 14, Jane Scott Vara, a public defender, was appointed to represent Vu; Vara did not return calls seeking comment. Take care of my business A Florida native, Vu first met Tran in 2001 in Vietnam through a referral from his sister and married her after a couple of weeks, according to a deposition he provided as part of the federal civil case. In September of that year, Tran, then in her early 30s, arrived in the United States and soon thereafter gave birth to a son and daughter. She began teaching at the beauty school on Bellaire that her husband co-owned. Documents describe Trans near-absolute dependence on her husband, who claimed to be responsible for every positive thing Tran had since he brought her over from Vietnam. Then came the attacks on Tran, federal court documents say. For years, Tran, who spoke mainly Vietnamese, did not report Vu to police or the courts. For cultural reasons, or because their immigration status depends on their spouses, its common for Vietnamese immigrant wives like Tran to hesitate, sometimes for years, before reporting domestic violence, said Michelle Tran, a family therapist and case worker for the nonprofit Boat People SOS. She said too many people still accept the old Vietnamese saying: The husband is the god, while the wife is his follower. A former Houston Police Department investigator, James Binford, wrote a report for the civil investigation saying Vu likely abused his wife because the two had entered into a loveless, sham marriage to make Tuyet a citizen. He found evidence of five calls to police for domestic violence, none of which resulted in arrest. On June 24, 2015, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services stepped in to remove both children from the home based on family violence, according to prosecutors. In the weeks before her death, Tran filed for divorce and sought an emergency temporary restraining order against her husband, Harris County records show. In a sworn affidavit that Tran signed July 7, 2015, she described incidents in which Vu raised his voice, threw chairs, and beat and choked her. One attack occurred outside her beauty school. I had printed posters advertising the 50% discount for eyelash services, but I hadnt asked for my husbands approval regarding style and size, Tran wrote in her statement, which the Houston Chronicle translated from Vietnamese. After getting the prints and mailing them, my husband got angry, became quarrelsome, dragged me to the parking lot in front of his store and strangled me. During a recorded meeting with state officials over child custody, Vu admitted to being volatile, according to federal court documents. If I was smart enough, if I had taken care of my business with me and my wife without the kids present, theres no problem but its just because we did it inside the house, he said. According to a Child Protective Services caseworker quoted in the records, one of the children said his greatest fear was that his father would kill his mother. Another CPS caseworker spoke with Vu on July 20, 2015, the day Tran was killed. That meeting ended when Vu became angry and upset and said his children would be better off in foster care than with their mother because she only had a fifth-grade education and only he could provide his children with the proper educational training, U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen wrote in a March 11 court order. After the meeting, around 6 p.m.,Vu drove by the Signature Beauty Show, a routine activity, he said, according to his deposition. With only his estranged wife remaining in the shop after other staffers had left, Vu stated, an unidentified man came into the business, but exited without saying a word. He maintained that the sighting prompted him to arm himself with a gun he kept in his car, where he also kept an ax. He claims to have seen the same man, whom he blames for the murder, loitering in the parking lot when, he says, he left to go buy his wife flowers. He never bought the flowers, court records show. That same night, a federal judge wrote in a recent ruling on the civil case, Tran died of blunt force trauma to the head She had been hit with an object which is consistent with the ax owned by Vu. Vu called the crime a robbery. Both of her cell phones had been smashed and a window of her car was broken. But cash and credit cards remained. The next day, July 21, Vietnamese-speaking media descended on the shop, with ABTV 55.4 posting its coverage on YouTube that same day. It was big news in the Vietnamese community, but received little coverage elsewhere. Anchor Hoan Nguyen reported that Tran, on the morning of her death, had exhibited what seemed like visible signs of distress. Between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m., she visited the nearby pho restaurant and asked for a glass of warm water to drink with a pill, then she walked outside and leaned onto a pillar while making a call, the anchor reported. In interviews with the Chronicle, acquaintances remembered Tran as affable and very kind. Michael To, then a salesperson for the Vietnamese newspaper Bao Viet, often met with business owners like Tran to see if they would advertise in the classified section. Their meetings and partnership went on for years. Although To said he never met Trans husband, he had heard stories about her being bullied. On the night of Trans death, To parked his car near the Signature Beauty Show, and while browsing Facebook on his phone he saw an Asian man 5 feet 6 inches tall, 160 pounds, age 40 to 50 leaving the business, according to a police report in court files. The man went back inside after To spotted him. What a death shows In October 2015, Vu changed his name to Itani Milleni, according to court documents. That same month, he filed a claim to collect the full amount of Trans $275,000 life-insurance policy. While the insurance claim was still pending, he permanently gave up custody rights to his two children in June 2016 and moved out of state. The murder investigation grew cold. But Vus efforts to collect his late wifes life insurance benefits prompted an extensive investigation by civil attorneys appointed to represent his children. Megan C. Moore, of Rusty Hardin & Associates in Houston, and her co-counsel William Belk, a former homicide detective, both argued that the children not their father should receive all of the benefits. The children, who are now teenagers, have been living in state custody since their mothers murder. Moore and Belk assembled a raft of documents in an attempt to establish Vus guilt as part of the civil case, where the burden of proof is a preponderance of evidence a lower standard than in a criminal matter, where a prosecutor needs to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. On March 11, Judge Hanen issued a ruling against Vu that favored the childrens claim. While the Defendant is factually correct that the Plaintiffs have no direct evidence (such as an eye witness) linking Vu to the death of (Tran), direct evidence is not required, Haned wrote. In fact, circumstantial evidence can be the sole basis for a judgment that a potential beneficiary killed the insured and consequently is not entitled to life insurance proceeds. On April 24, Hanen ruled that the two children were the only beneficiaries of their mothers life insurance. Hanen queried the two about their academic performance. Except for a B in reading, the son had gotten As. The daughter had received all As. Hanen wished them well and adjourned the hearing. Then Moore embraced them, and they smiled. Were happy, the kids are happy, she said. These are remarkable children. In an interview and in court filings, Moore has said she believes that the evidence assembled by her firm and by Belk left no doubt that Vu (aka Milleni) was the killer. In an email, Moore wrote: I do think that our case renewed the interest in Milleni and the evidence we gathered during the investigation of the civil case strengthened the criminal case against him. The suspect was being held in jail out of state and did not attend the hearing. He was later transferred to the Harris County jail, where he was being held Friday on $500,000 bond A spokesman for the Harris County district attorneys office declined to say whether the timing of the arrest had any connection to the civil case. Robert Taylor took his time studying the names at the Houston Heights WWII Memorial Plaza. Each one somebody who sacrificed. Some who gave their lives. I purposely wanted to show up, Taylor said, two hours early for a Memorial Day event at the plaza, nestled between northbound and southbound traffic on Heights Boulevard at 11th Street. This is what Memorial Day is about, he said. The memorial plaza, which most days hides in plain site from the hustle and bustle of the Heights, was a hub of activity throughout most of the holiday. Long before Taylor, hours before even the sound crew got their to string cables for an afternoon event, joggers and families filed into the semi-circle, each for their own reasons. We knew it was here and we wanted to take the kids out for a walk, Brad Shive said, after taking his daughter, four-year-old Brooke, on a tour of the names. It is fantastic and we are lucky to have it in our neighborhood to show it and remember. The memorial, built in 1999, honors Heights area residents who served in WWII, with the names of about 2,100 area residents who served in the war. In the center, etched on a pylon holding up a globe, are the names of the 224 neighborhood residents who died, including Navy Petty Officer David C. Isaacks, killed April 6, 1945 during an attack on the U.S.S. Belleau Wood. He got knocked off the ship, said David Chuber, whose step-brother was Isaacks son. They heard him in the water, but they never found him. What is crucial, many people said at a holiday gathering, is that those killed are celebrated as heroes. We can never thank those that made the ultimate sacrifice, said Gen. Carlton Smith, assistant deputy adjunct general of the Texas Army National Guard. The best thing we can do is continue to respect them and never forget them. U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who represents the area and organized the event, also urged attendees not to leave behind soldiers who are struggling to re-adapt, noting 20 veterans per day commit suicide, a 2013 statistic from the Veterans Administration that some believe might be an under-count of current numbers. If we believe mi casa es su casa, my house is your house, we will not tolerate that, Jackson Lee said of the lack of treatment and assistance for veterans. Let us say thank you by checking on you. That is why the holiday is more than the beaches and barbecues for many area residents. It has always been important to me, said Alan Figurski, 25. Ive been raised to appreciate these days. His hair kept out of his eyes for a run with an American flag bandanna, Figurski made the memorial the stopping point, so he could reflect. A former active duty soldier now in the reserves, he said he believes most people still stop and think about the sacrifice of others. Beaven Fernandes, 52, made a point to stop by, with his son Gabriel, 13, in tow. They just wanted to stop by the memorial, but ended up right on time for the midday event, with a new perspective on the site. We drive by all the time, I drive by it on my way to work, but you cant really see it, Beaven Fernandes said. You have to be on foot. Many who are fleet of foot also flew by the memorial. As part of a training route, a nearby gym trainer and veteran sent runners racing up the trail to take a selfie, as part of a daily exercise regimen. Its a scavenger hunt, Hung Cao said, before trotting off with Juan Montiel. Moments later, two other runners raced up, dawdled for a moment and dashed off. One ran off slightly before the other, who was hung up by passing cars. The one already across 11th jogged in place: Honoring the code to not leave anyone behind. Part of the draw and the obscurity of the memorial that it sits in a bustling place, along the popular Heights esplanade and its heavily-used running trail, that makes it both accessible and unmistakable from the cars passing by. The design of the site even takes that into account. More than a dozen concrete bollards posts aimed at stopping a vehicle from entering line the memorial. In addition to serving as a barrier for traffic, they pull double-duty as educational guideposts to World War II, ranging from honoring key battles to the all-important Allied victories to end the war. On the busy trail, it is just another stop along 17 blocks of artwork, benches, lampposts and gazebos. A runner with her dog sits down to get a rock out of her shoe, then keeps moving. Two middle-aged couples power-walk past, talking about dinner between heavy breaths as they work up a sweat. Two others run by planning their afternoon barbecue. Patrons trickle into nearby restaurants that have popped up as part of the neighborhoods redevelopment. Across the street used to be the post office. Now its a commercial development with a juice bar and dentists office. You used to be able to smell the Heights, said Larry Escobedo, 34, recalling when homes with fences festooned with jasmine and honeysuckle lined the street rather than real estate offices. Now with all the building, you cant. Escobedo, whose family has lived in the Heights three generations, stopped by the memorial to pay his respects. Its important, he said, to recognize the role people in the neighborhood played to keep it safe. If it wasnt for those guys, he said, pointing at the names on the wall, we wouldnt be here. dug.begley@chron.com Jay R. Jordan A Houston Fire Department captain is prohibited from contact with any children, including his 4-year-old daughter, while he's awaiting trial on 10 counts of possession of child pornography charges, a judge said on Tuesday. Ryan Steckler, 36, was arrested Friday after he allegedly altered pornographic images with children's faces on them and uploaded images of child pornography, according to probable cause documents detailing his arrest. Now Playing: A Harris County Precinct 5 Constables Office deputy conducting traffic enforcement was struck by a car Monday on the Westpark Tollway. Video: Houston Chronicle A Harris County Precinct 5 Constable's Office deputy was recuperating at home Wednesday after being struck by a car while conducting speed enforcement on the Westpark Tollway a day earlier. The deputy, David Dickson, was next to the eastbound entrance ramp from West Houston Center Boulevard when a car driving up the ramp ran off the roadway and struck him around 9:50 a.m., according to Assistant Chief Terry Allbritton. The deputy was thrown from the motorcycle and unable to radio for help. Prompt ratification of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement is critical if North America producers, especially those in Texas, are to maintain their competitiveness with producers in Europe and Asia. While the USMCA is far from perfect, its approval will maintain most of the advantages of NAFTA for North American industry advantages that have generated annual trade of over $1.2 trillion in goods and services. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, Texas exports to Mexico and Canada totaled $120 billion in 2017 eight times as much as exports to China and were responsible for more than 910,000 Texas jobs. When NAFTA was negotiated more than 25 years ago, one of its most important objectives in eliminating regional tariffs for originating goods was to allow American manufacturers of autos, white goods, machinery and other products to compete effectively with rivals in the European Union and Japan, South Korea, and later, China. Producers in Western Europe had lower-cost labor available in Eastern Europe; Japan and Korea had lower-wage labor in China and the ASEAN nations to rely upon in forming efficient supply chains in an increasingly global marketplace. With NAFTA, Canadian and American manufacturers acquired and have maintained similar advantages in Mexico. A quarter of a century later, the revised and modernized version of NAFTA should be submitted to the Canadian Parliament and U.S. and Mexican congresses as soon as possible to assure that the essential competitiveness of North American business and labor is preserved. While USMCA has some significant disadvantages, such as increasing the cost of production of automobiles in the United States and Canada, reducing protection for foreign investors in North America and increasing the cost of biologic drugs through an extended patent period, it also brings significant advantages. The most important of these are related to data (prohibiting data localization requirements) and other aspects of e-commerce, along with competition policy, good regulatory practices, and improving protection of intellectual property. Significantly, the USMCA provisions designed to protect labor rights (including those mandating true collective bargaining and independence union formation in Mexico) and the environment are far superior to the side agreements that were part of the NAFTA package, and in the case of labor rights, should reduce somewhat the wage disparities between the U.S. and Mexico. Was a new NAFTA necessary? Many observers would have said no prior to January 2017, because the U.S., Canada and Mexico had all negotiated (with nine other Pacific Rim nations) the Trans-Pacific Partnership, with modern provisions on data, small- and medium-sized enterprises, state-owned enterprises, and corruption, along with strong labor rights and environmental protection. This was President Obamas approach to modernizing NAFTA, and it probably would have worked fine had not President Trump withdrawn from the TPP shortly after taking office. For the United States, the choice then became to renegotiate NAFTA, withdraw from NAFTA entirely or continue with the old NAFTA, largely untouched. Among the three alternatives, a modernized NAFTA is clearly preferable. Why is congressional action on USMCA delayed? The challenges include reaching agreement between the administration and the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives on better enforcement mechanisms to assure that Mexico meets its obligations under the labor and environmental provisions. With luck, these negotiations will be concluded soon now that Mexico has enacted new and improved union organizing and collective bargaining laws. It is also increasingly clear that the administrations preoccupation with reaching a broad-ranging trade agreement with China has been a distraction as far as USMCA is concerned. But perhaps the most significant bar to Congressional action remains the Trump administrations so-called national security tariffs of 25 percent on steel and 10 percent on aluminum imported from Canada and Mexico (and from many other U.S. allies). Neither government appears willing to move forward on ratification of USMCA unless and until these tariffs are lifted, and key Republican members of the Senate have advised the president that they are not prepared to support USMCA until the tariffs are removed. In the final analysis, the president must make the difficult choice between his often-expressed passion for tariffs and his desire to meet his campaign promise of replacing NAFTA. For the nations sake, lets hope he chooses USMCA. With hurricane season officially beginning Saturday, its frightening that the Trump administration continues to ignore the role climate change plays in spawning increasingly horrific storms that threaten the lives and property of Texans and residents of other Gulf states. The U.S. Climate and Health Alliance said Hurricane Harvey dealt Texas a harder blow two years ago because climate change produced stronger storm surges, increased precipitation, and created more powerful winds. Harvey dumped nearly of 52 inches of rain on parts of Harris County. Researchers said that was 40 percent more rain than a similar storm would have produced decades ago. Not even scientists within President Trumps administration have been able to weaken his skepticism. He paid no attention to the latest National Climate Assessment, which every four years evaluates the effects of climate change on the United States. The report said climate change had made Texas particularly vulnerable to increasing temperatures, extreme precipitation and continued sea level rise. The report meant nothing to Trump, who remains hell bent on reversing environmental rules imposed by previous administrations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide that cause global warming. Its bad enough that Trump ignores science, but he has also placed accomplices in key positions to hide the truth from the rest of us. One culprit is former astronaut James Reilly, who Trump appointed last year to head the U.S. Geological Survey, one of the federal agencies charged with keeping tabs on climate change and predicting its impact. Reilly, a geologist who also once worked for an oil exploration company, has ordered USGS scientists using computer-generated climate models to project the impact of climate change only through 2040. If you think its mere coincidence that scientists say current emissions impact on global warming wont be felt until after 2040, you need to know more about Reilly. During last years confirmation hearings, he assured senators, Im fully committed to scientific integrity. Yet when asked specifically when more action should be taken to address global warming, Reilly suddenly became cryptic. Interpretation of the when is really the problem, he said, and the when really is the problem in: Whats that spectrum of time for you? Time, in this regard, is probably the same as what was best described in how you measure depth in a seismic section. That is, its basically numbers on a rubber band, and youre doing one of these things, trying to figure out wheres the best fit. Come again? His mutterings are reminiscent of Bill Clinton debating the meaning of the word is. Only in this case, the consequences of denial are quite possibly apocalyptic. Truth becomes more complex when we dont want to face it. All Reilly had to say is now. Now is the time to directly confront global warming. Reilly shouldnt be in charge of the USGS if he cant admit that. If scientific integrity is as important to him as he said it is, he wont make it a casualty to Trumps insistence that global warming take a back seat to whatever business model he believes is more important than surviving catastrophic climate-related events. Another of Trumps sycophants, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, shocked some participants at a recent meeting in Finland of the eight-nation Arctic Council when he seemed to suggest global warming is good because it is thawing a bonanza of untapped reserves of oil, gas, uranium, gold and rare minerals while opening up new shipping routes and fisheries. The words climate change never came out of Pompeos mouth. NASA, which like the USGS studies our climate, says the damaging changes scientists expect to occur beyond 2040 include stronger, more frequent, and longer-lasting hurricanes, rising sea levels due to melting ice, and an essentially ice free Arctic Ocean. NASA says the southwestern United States should expect declining water supplies, reduced agricultural yields, health impacts in cities due to heat, and flooding and erosion in coastal areas. At this point, it appears unlikely that Trump will ever stop trying to weaken or get rid of environmental rules that would help mitigate these and other devastating consequences. Hes surrounded himself with yes men such as Reilly and Pompeo who wont talk him down from his position. He doesnt listen to anyone in Congress, Republican or Democrat, who might change his mind. So, its up to the American public to reach the president. Hes running for re-election, so he must care what voters think. Contact the White House and let Trump know you dont want to live in fear of more storms even worse than Harvey. Tell the president its time to acknowledge human activitys role in creating the greenhouses gases that cause global warming and to do something about it. Ive said this to Kevin Graham, and Ill say it here publicly: Rather than focusing on no, focus on bringing resources and support to our officers so they can get what they need to be able to be successful. If theyre not, it shows up on the street. It shows up in the interactions, the literally millions of interactions on a yearly basis that we will never see but that will directly affect the communitys perception and embrace of our Police Department, Lightfoot said. We have to do better by our young officers just as we have to do better by our young people (and) those communities that are under siege. From new venues to new foodie concepts, bars and restaurants in major cities in Central and Eastern Europe are rethinking their menus, design and location to better appeal to locals and tourists. From new venues to new foodie concepts, bars and restaurants in major cities in Central and Eastern Europe are rethinking their menus, design and location to better appeal to locals and tourists. Amid the growing focus on high-quality food and social-media friendly spaces, todays customers have higher expectations than ever before. Furthermore, the growing affluence of Polish customers means 41 percent more is now spent on eating out than 10 years ago, according to a JLL report. In the neighbouring Czech Republic, purchasing power is also rising. Thats giving restaurateurs confidence to launch and expand and feel less dependent purely on the tourist spend, says Tomas Soukup, head of retail for the Czech Republic at JLL. As a result, dining options are moving beyond the typical pork and dumplings to Nordic-style bakeries and independent newcomers. You could argue that there have always been two sets of clientele in Prague tourists seeking the classic Czech menus, and young professionals out for a meal or drink after work, says Soukup. But theres also a new wave of locals and tourists keen for new mid-range eating and drinking experiences that offer something a little different. Social media is also playing its part in raising the profile of new concepts, such as Pragues butcher diner, Nase maso and its neighbour, quirky sandwich maker Sisters Chlebicky. For many people, social media is the new city guidebook and visually appealing dishes and interior design can prove to be a very effective marketing tool to get them talking about an up-and-coming bar or restaurant online, Soukup adds. A refined offer Take beer, historically one of Pragues major draws. The growth of craft ale has seen the Czech capital become a destination not just for high volume weekend drinking but also for ale aficionados. Prague has for some time had this brash reputation for being a destination for groups of revellers on a weekend getaway, says Soukup. But things are becoming more refined and understated. High-end dining is taking off with two Prague restaurants, the Field and La Degustation, recently awarded Michelin stars. Quality coffee shops and wine bars are also increasing in popularity with the latter gaining traction in Warsaw via the likes of Ale Wino and Kieliszki na Proznej. Pragues Krakovska Street, meanwhile, is drawing in the crowds to cozy, dimly-lit cocktail bars, such as Parlour. Location, location New drinking and dining options are not, however, providing additional competition for traditional retailers looking for prime city centre space. High street retail continues to perform well and unlike other European cities, rents are not under pressure, Soukup explains. That means Prague hasnt felt the need to incentivise new tenants or seek out alternative uses due to any sudden spike in vacancy. If anything, food and beverage is complementing the Prague shopping experience nicely and sits a little hidden away from the main squares and high streets, adding to the charm. In Warsaw, restaurants, bars and cafes such as small French patisserie chain Vincent play a bigger role on the high street, accounting for nearly one third of the citys high street units. Anna Wysocka, head of retail agency at JLL Poland, says that in recent years, new gastronomy clusters have spontaneously emerged in less obvious locations in Warsaw such as Poznanska, Nowogrodzka, Parkingowa and Burakowska, as well as on the citys revamped Vistula boulevards. Theyre now extremely popular food and drink destinations particularly in the summer months, she says. Back in Prague, undiscovered cobbled back streets and Art Deco arcades are being re-energised, along with less visited areas of town. The Smichov district, away from Pragues main landmarks and across the Vltava river, is where the founder of food market Manifesto is now planning a second site after the launch of its original site across town in the Florenc district. Smichov is not on the tourist map but that can soon change once markets such as Manifesto move in, says Soukup. These markets also offer opportunities for a new generation of local chefs to build their reputation. More to come Both Prague and Warsaw are eyeing more innovation in their food and drink scene. In Warsaw, the market hall trend sweeping Europe is reflected in Hala Koszyki, which offers outlets ranging from Mexican food to local butchers. Czech modern dining alliance, Together, also continues to add new concepts to its rosta across Prague, ranging from Belgian brasserie Bruxx to Asian restaurant Sia in the citys Sporkovsky Palace. In both cities, the setting and backdrop matter; Warsaw chef Mateusz Gessler has opened his Warszawa Wschodnia in a converted, red-brick factory. The Ambi Group is another umbrella company for several Prague restaurants including the no menu Kuchyn. Its all about making the most of photogenic interior design and renowned architecture, while offering consumers something fresh, says Soukup. Thats the way forward. Plus, the growing economies of Poland and the Czech Republic bode well for local spending. In Poland the amount spent on eating out is tipped to grow as much as 32 percent by 2028, according to Oxford Economics. Purchasing power in the neighbouring Czech Republic should also rise next year, according to the countrys trade and tourism union. Its an exciting time for bars and restaurants in Warsaw, says Wysocka. The appetite for new food and drink concepts is there and that should have a positive effect on retail in the coming years. This article originally appeared on JLL Real Views. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest all industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hospitality Trends Hotels in the state of Hawaii reached record RevPAR levels in 2018, supported by continued growth in visitation. Hawaii experienced another stellar year of RevPAR performance in 2018, bolstered by improved airlift and a strong domestic economy, which resulted in another record year of visitor arrivals. Despite these impressive achievements, the year was not without its share of difficulties, including volcanic eruptions at Kilauea, disruptions caused by Hurricane Lane and Hurricane Olivia, and an extended 51-day hotel worker strike. Nevertheless, the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT) forecasts sustained year-over-year growth in visitor arrivals through 2022, which should support a robust hotel market. Source: Hawaii Tourism Authority According to the 2018 December Hawaii Hotel Performance Report published by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, overall occupancy levels for hotels statewide declined between 2017 and 2018. However, the decrease in occupancy was offset by strong gains in average daily rate (ADR). Overall, RevPAR rose from $212.07 to $221.85, placing Hawaii as the second-strongest-performing major market in the United States, only trailing New York City. This is the ninth consecutive year that hotels in Hawaii have experienced gains in RevPAR. Source: Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development, & Tourism Visitor arrivals surged by nearly 6% between 2017 and 2018, primarily generated by growth in domestic tourism.[1] On the island of Oahu, this corresponded with an increase in occupancy of 0.4%, while Maui, Hawaii, and Kauai experienced slight declines.[2] The overall statewide decrease in hotel occupancy, coupled with the significant increase in visitor arrivals and total visitor days, suggest that a notable portion of occupied room nights were accommodated by other forms of transient lodging, particularly short-term vacation rentals. While short-term vacation rentals accommodate a certain segment of unaccommodated demand, oversupply and competition from vacation rentals will likely remain a threat to the hotel industry in Hawaii for the foreseeable future. Below is a brief list of recent highlights pertaining to the Hawaii lodging market, categorized by island: Hawaii: The former Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows closed in October 2018; redevelopment is currently underway, and the hotel is expected to reopen as an Auberge Resort in late 2019. [3] In January 2019, developer Kennedy Wilson announced that the Kona Village Resort would reopen as a Rosewood Resort in 2022. [4] Ocean Tower by Hilton Grand Vacations opened in February 2019; the 72 timeshare units are the first of a multi-phase redevelopment of the former 600-room Ocean Tower at Hilton Waikoloa Village. [5] Maui: Developer R.D. Olson broke ground on the 110-room AC Hotel by Marriott Wailea in April 2019. [6] The Blackstone Group is currently pursuing entitlements related to a 224-guestroom expansion and renovation of the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort. [7] Construction has started on the first phase of the Maui Bay Villas by Hilton Grand Vacations; the initial phase is expected to feature 131 timeshare units and is anticipated to open in 2021. [8] Lanai: The Four Seasons Lanai Lodge at Koele is expected to reopen in early 2020 following its closure in January 2015. [9] Oahu: Park Hotels & Resorts announced plans to develop a new hotel under a brand affiliated with Hilton Inc. adjacent to the Grand Waikikian by Hilton Grand Vacations. [10] Construction is likely to commence before year-end 2019 on the Mandarin Oriental Hotel & Residences near the Hawaii Convention Center and Ala Moana Shopping Center. [11] The Modern Honolulu, purchased by Diamond Resorts in 2018, is expected to be converted to timeshare units; a concrete timeline for its redevelopment has yet to be announced. [12] Kauai: The Princeville Resort (formerly known as the St. Regis Princeville) is anticipated to undergo an extensive renovation and reopen as the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay in 2022. [13] Following a failed redevelopment attempt under the Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand, the site of the former Coco Palms Resort is reportedly on the market. [14] Another major highlight is the recent introduction of Southwest Airlines service to Hawaii. The Dallas-based carrier began flights from the mainland U.S. to the state of Hawaii mid-March 2019, as well as interisland service in late April. The introduction of Southwest Airlines service to Hawaii is also expected to increase competition in pricing, which should support growth in visitation. According to an analysis conducted by Kayak.com, the average round-trip, economy-class fare from California to Hawaii decreased by 17% in March 2019, compared to March 2018. In general, the Hawaii hotel market continues to remain an attractive market for institutional capital, and trophy assets should continue to draw investor interest both domestically and internationally. The markets high barriers to entry, forecasted growth in visitor arrivals, and favorable economic conditions support a positive outlook. HVS continues to regularly consult in this area, with the San Francisco office serving the greater Hawaii market. John Berean; Adam Lair, MAI; and Suzanne R. Mellen, MAI, CRE, FRICS, ISHC; are ready to assist you on any consulting need you may have. [1] Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT) [2] Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) [3] Auberge Resorts Collection. Hawaii's Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows Joins Auberge Resorts Collection. 23 May 2018: https://aubergeresorts.com/press/hawaiis-mauna-lani-bay-hotel-bungalows-joins-auberge-resorts-collection/ [4] Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort to Open in 2022 on the Island of Hawai'i. 30 Jan. 2019: https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/media/press/2019/Kona-Village-A-Rosewood-Resort-to-Open-in-2022 [5] Hilton Grand Vacations. Hilton Grand Vacations Opens Ocean Tower by Hilton Grand Vacations Club. 7 Feb. 2019: https://www.hgv.com/hilton-grand-vacations-opens-ocean-tower-by-hilton-grand-vacations-club/ [6] R.D. Olson Construction. R.D. Olson Construction Breaks Ground on AC Hotel Wailea, 10 Apr. 2019: https://www.rdolson.com/news-items/r-d-olson-construction-breaks-ground-on-ac-hotel-wailea/ [7] Tanji, Melissa. Grand Wailea planning 224 room expansion. 28 Feb. 2019: https://www.mauinews.com/news/local-news/2019/02/grand-wailea-planning-224-room-expansion/ [8] Hilton Grand Vacations. Hilton grand Vacations to expand Hawaii portfolio, offer first property on Maui. 25 Jan. 2019: https://www.hgv.com/hilton-grand-vacations-to-expand-hawaii-portfolio-offer-first-property-on-maui/ [9] Gollan, Doug. Four Seasons to open Nine Resorts in 2019. 5 Dec. 2018: https://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/Four-Seasons-to-Open-Nine-Resorts-In-2019 [10] Magin, Janis L. Park Hotels & Resorts plans to build first new Waikiki hotel in 30 years. 27 Mar. 2019: https://www.bizjournals.com/pacific/news/2019/03/27/park-hotels-resorts-plans-to-build-first-new.html [11] Magin, Janis L. Prices of Residences at Mandarin Oriental Honolulu to start at $3.5M. 15 Jan. 2019: https://www.bizjournals.com/pacific/news/2019/01/15/prices-of-residences-at-mandarin-oriental-honolulu.html [12] OConnor, Christina. The Modern Honolulu to lay off 78, according to Local 5. 2 Feb. 2019: https://www.bizjournals.com/pacific/news/2019/05/02/the-modern-honolulu-to-lay-off-78-according-to.html [13] SH Hotels & Resorts. Starwood Capital Group Acquires Princeville Resort. 16 Nov. 2018: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/starwood-capital-group-acquires-princeville-resort-300752310.html [14] Magin, Janis L. Coco Palms project listed with no asking price but valued at $40M. https://www.bizjournals.com/pacific/news/2019/03/28/coco-palms-project-listed-with-no-asking-price-but.html About John Berean John Berean, a Project Manager with HVS San Francisco, conducts hotel appraisals and feasibility studies in markets across the western U.S. and Hawaii. Johns hands-on hospitality experience includes work as Accounts Coordinator and Revenue Analyst for the Queen Kapiolani Hotel in Honolulu, Hawaii. John earned a Masters of Economics, with a concentration in Quantitative Finance, from the Peking University HSBC Business School in Shenzhen, China. He previously majored in International Studies, with a minor in Environmental Studies, at Middlebury College in Middlebury, Vermont. Contact John at +1 (281) 381-3456 or jberean@hvs.com. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest all industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hospitality Trends Charles Marohn founded Strong Towns to help municipalities build stability. Strong Towns Founder Brings Community Development Strategies to Pittsfield Mill Town Capital organized both a large presentation at Barrington Stage in the evening and a small one for those involved in local community development. PITTSFIELD, Mass. Charles Marohn believes that humans are basically wired to highly value the immediate positive while discounting long-term negatives. That's a well recognized and documented psychology. It explains why many people will eat poor food and sit down in front of a television rather than go to the gym. But Marohn's specialty isn't psychology. He's a civil engineer. So why was he talking psychology in a room full of government officials and city planners? "This is a fundamental insolvency problem. This is a problem I saw in city after city after city. We were growing very robustly, we were growing for decades. We were adding new homes, new commercial buildings, and we were seeing a lot of cash," Marohn said. "Then all of a sudden these things were coming due and we had no money. We had no money to fix anything. We were getting huge bills." Marohn started Strong Towns, a movement to re-think how to build a city or town. The Minnesota native had noticed the same trend in cities across America -- including Pittsfield. "We grew this in a pattern that gave us the illusion of wealth, the short-term infusion of cash in exchange for this long-term liability," he said. For him, it started with a financial analysis of projects his city had done. A private developer came in years ago and with his own money built a residential cul-de-sac to serve new homes. That gave immediate tax revenue to the city. The roads were brand new and cost very little to maintain so the property taxes generated was a boon. But then he asked a seemingly simple question: when the city repairs the infrastructure, how long will it take for it to recoup the cost from those taxpayers. The answer was 37 years. "The road isn't going to last 37 years so you have this financial imbalance built into it. When this road falls apart where is the money going to come from?" Marohn said. He looked at another similar development. The answer was 79 years. In that one, if the town wanted to collect enough tax revenue before the road needs repair it would take a 46 percent tax increase every year, a number that isn't feasible. He scaled the model up to a successful business park. The city wanted to build one to help attract new businesses. He said he discounted any subsidy offered to incentivize new businesses or any parcels that would be off the tax rolls because of non-profits or city ownership and assumed the entire park was full and all the tax money was being collected within a year. "It still took the city three decades to break even," Marohn said. "This is a pattern we've seen over and over again and literally every development we handled that is new and we could get the numbers, we'd see this same pattern." New developments make sense when they are first done. The cash flow is nice from the start. So cities and towns have chased the model of growth, he said. For decades these are the types of development government officials have backed. And year after year more and more of these developments would go in. Cities and towns saw their revenue sharply increase as development after development went in. And now, the burden of repairing all of that infrastructure is putting downward pressure on budgets -- the cost versus benefit gap has reversed. "The problem is when you get out a generation and you have to then go back and fix these things that you said as you would as a public take over and maintain, what you find is the cumulative amount of money you took in is insufficient," he said. Marohn paused and asked the "high-powered" crowd of county officials if they see themselves role in this type of thinking. A collective silence filled the room and everyone recognized in some form or another they've participated in this longstanding practice of government. They've celebrated that big win before. "We are wired to highly value positive feedback today and to discount negative feedback in the future," Marohn said. But, that governmental thinking throughout the country hadn't always been like that. Marohn, there have been 70 years of the growth mentality but before that, before the Great Depression, cities weren't built like that. "There is really no underlying conspiracy or deep thing, it is just prior to the Great Depression we had a limited capacity to build things," he said. He displayed a picture of his downtown in its infant years. It was a handful of little shacks on the side of one road. As the years went on, those shacks got bigger. The road got longer. The city's downtown grew from the inside out. Thousands of those small downtowns popped up across North America. Some of them failed and were gone. Some of them grew into major centers. But when they failed, it didn't quite matter as much because not a whole lot had been put into them by that point. "At some point in the past, Pittsfield looked just a little series of pop-up shacks with some people thinking maybe there will be a city here and I'll get in on the front end of it. And we'll see what happens. We built literally thousands of these across this continent. And for a variety of reasons, it was the wrong people are the wrong time, a lot of these places never got past this phase. They failed," Marohn said. "What happens when a place like this fails? Nothing. A few people lose a little bit of money and move on to the next place." If the downtowns had grown, when one piece fails, the downtown could still survive because it consisted of many pieces. The places had grown "incrementally" up and out. The wood shacks became stone and granite and became taller and the downtowns became bigger. He said the same historic pattern has happened in the world's biggest cities. "The way we built as humans for thousands of years was on this incremental path," Marohn said. He then showed a photo of what would have been the next phase of incremental growth in his hometown. It was single-story structures on the street built in the 1920s -- the modern equivalent of the wooden shacks of old -- and had that growth continued, those would have had second or third stories added. But the depression hit and then World War II and the city stagnated. The parcels became a blight. Two parcels in that section were the exact same size. A chain restaurant purchased one of those properties and renovated it. His city was struggling with budgets, jobs, and economic development so that was good news. "We were tickled pink to see this happen. We got rid of blight. We got something new. It has plenty of parking. It meets our sign ordinance. It meets our coverage limits. They even volunteered to put in a little bit of sidewalk," Marohn said. That development had the same infrastructure and size as the other that hadn't been redeveloped like that but a difference remained. The value of the untouched parcel was $1.1 million while the new restaurant's building was valued at $600,000. The values are driven much by the market. The biggest taxpayer in his town is on the edge. A big box store and a gas station built out 20 acres of property and it attracts people from all over the area. It's bustling. He said the city took on massive capital projects to bring water and sewer to the parcel and build roads to easily access the development. Meanwhile, the downtown sits with vacant storefronts, places have been torn or burned down, there had been nothing new built downtown in ages. But he ran the values, what is in the downtown had 70 percent greater value per acre. "The city is actually collecting 70 percent more property tax from the 20 acres downtown even in its rundown, dilapidated condition than it is collecting from the best of the best out here," Marohn said. When the big box development goes out of business, reuse is questionable. But downtown there are 132 different properties and are "incredibly adaptable, flexible, and financially potent." He modeled value per acre in cities all over. Repeatedly the traditional downtowns outperformed the mini-malls and new developments significantly. He looked at the sizes of different cities throughout. In a city in Louisiana, Strong Towns was asked to come and look at what's happening. The city was bustling but financially it was struggling. They looked at every expense of the city, roads, sewer, police protection, fire, transit, and on and on. And looked at every single revenue stream and mapped them. He created a graphic map of profit and loss from those numbers. It revealed areas where revenues were above what it cost to service and areas which cost more to service than revenue comes in. The poorest neighborhoods in town and the core downtown that were struggling were in the blue. The strip malls, drive-throughs, subdivisions, and big box stores were all in the red. He compared it to a value per acre map and it was highly correlated. The struggles of those areas aren't in the "built form," he said. The downtown and surrounding neighborhoods have a built-in "ecosystem." Marohn says it is time to get back to the incremental growth model. He encourages cities to start with their core and rebuild from there. Pittsfield is no exception to the challenges faced in small cities and towns throughout the nation. Mill Town Capital is a Pittsfield firm that invests in local businesses, release estate, and takes on community development efforts. Managing Director Tim Burke said Mill Town's focus is to make Pittsfield a better place. "We want to be on the forefront of who are doing things really well out there," Burke said. He read Strong Towns and heard Marohn speak and the towns he was describing sounded eerily like Pittsfield. "It actually feels like we could transplant you there or us here and there'd be a lot of crossovers," Marohn said of his hometown. Mill Town brought Marohn into the city on Thursday to discuss his strategies for building strong cities and towns. Marohn gave a public presentation at Barrington Stage but earlier in the day, he spoke with a small group of government officials and planners from all over the county who live and breath community development every day. "We wanted this small group to be as interactive as possible," Burke said. So what strategies has Marohn seen used to build stability and strengths a town? In a town in Michigan that had seen a big industrial sector up and leave in the past had empty spaces throughout the downtown. Town officials just couldn't seem to get people to fill the empty storefronts. "They found that people couldn't fit into space. The space was too big for them and even if they could fit, they didn't have the capacity to fix the fire system, fix the bathroom, do all of the things you are required to get places going. The bar of entry was too high," Marohn said. The town had a downtown and a farmers market that was separated by a parking lot. Officials found that people would park and go to one or the other. The town bought cheap storage sheds, painted them, and put them in the gap. The sheds were rented to start-up entrepreneurs for a low cost. They invited the businesses to come in and try it out without a long-term lease, without requirements to fix up the buildings. "These businesses have been wildly successful. They are full. They have new entrepreneurs in all of the time. Here's the great thing, a lot of the entrepreneurs once they got started, figured it, are in the empty spots in the downtown. The empty spots in the downtown are now full," Marohn said. A developer eventually came in and bought the site where the sheds were and built a multi-story building. Now the sheds are being moved to another gap in the downtown to generate the energy there. He called it a "floating entrepreneurial incubator space." In Memphis, Tenn., officials had issues with that high barrier of entry as well. So, they took a new tactic. Instead of requiring a business to make all of the code improvements at once, they created a provisional permit. The city allowed business to operate for six months without bringing the space up to code. If the business is making it, then each month 3 percent of the revenue was put into an escrow account. When that money builds up, the first building code issue must be addressed. The business would then slowly work through the prioritized list to make required repairs. Marohn spoke with local officials for more than two hours, sharing strategies that have been successful in cities just like Pittsfield. Oswego, N.Y., officials noticed a problem with housing. The housing stock was declining, people weren't investing in homes. The downtown was doing alright but the blocks outside of it were not. "Part of a great downtown is a great neighborhood. There is an ecosystem there. Improvements in the downtown should raise the values of the neighborhood," Marohn said. A successful downtown should raise the values of the neighborhoods but it wasn't. Officials there looked into it and it wasn't that the owners didn't have the resources or didn't have access to capital. It wasn't that they were people who didn't value their properties and were slum lords. It was that they didn't have any confidence in the neighborhood. "It is a rational thing if you believe your neighborhood is going to stagnate or decline to not put money into it. If you had a stock investment that you knew would be worth the same next year or less, how much more money would you put into that stock?" Marohn said. They created a grant program -- a program that got Pittsfield Mayor Linda Tyer to raiser her arms into the air with a feeling of validation -- to help people make exterior repairs to their homes. The city had tried to use grant programs to fix furnaces and insulation but those didn't do anything significant. Oswego's program matched 50 percent of the cost to do exterior improvements that can be seen from the street. But it wasn't granted to individuals but instead to blocks. It required neighbors to get together and pool money, commit to the different exterior project, and half the cost would be paid by the city. "All of a sudden, you have five neighbors out talking to each other about their vision for how this neighborhood is going to come back. Here's what I want to do to make my house great. Wow. Here's what I want to do to make my house great. And all at once, pop. The block goes in a different direction. What they have seen is they have unleashed a huge amount of personal initiative, personal capital. You start giving people confidence in their neighborhood, everything changes overnight," Marohn said. "It isn't a change overnight because some big investor comes in from Wall Street and puts $1 million into the neighborhood. It is a change overnight because you put $5,000 in, you planted $50 worth of shrubs, you painted your place. It is people who are there now participating in the gains of the neighborhood. That is a powerful, powerful strategy." Marohn said Pittsfield is in the same boat as Oswego was in that the downtown is much further ahead than the surrounding neighborhoods. "The surrounding neighborhoods are a drag on your downtown right now and they shouldn't be," Marohn said. "We have to get that confidence back." Marohn continued to say the switch in the neighborhood from of decline to investment destroys the slum landlord business model and pushes them out. Slum lords buy properties are a low cost, pays little in taxes and rides the value of the property down while the cash flow makes sense. But if values go up and taxes are going up, that kills that strategy. "The slum lord issue goes away because the values are going up. That act alone destroys that business model," Marohn said. The next step is to connect the neighborhood to downtown. Marohn is of the belief that there is no financial way for a city to provide and maintain parking downtown if those living just outside of it have to drive. "You will go broke with that as a business model. You can't provide enough parking at a low enough cost to make that work," he said. He said the focus needs to be on making an easily walkable downtown. And he is calling on a new way to address these issues -- start by observing how people use the city now, think of small ways to improve that, and repeat. The said the days of the studies and planning processes to develop a large improvement program are over. Instead, do something small, temporary and cheap, see if it works, and then make it permanent if it improves how residents are using the city. "We can make really small investments, really small, cheap investments, and they will have a big impact on the neighborhoods," Marohn said. "We should go out and spend $10,000 trying out different things, finding out what works, and then do that permanently." He said he spent a lot of time sitting in meetings wasting people's time and money in his engineering days. He said he'd rather see a city fail on a project quick and cheap instead of spending a lot of money to create something that doesn't serve the people that well. He called for a mental shift from "orderly and dumb" to "chaotic and smart." He said observing where people walk and how they get places can reveal small areas to make changes. The engagement with the community has to be different than traditionally. He stressed the word "humbly" in this process by having planners and engineers focus their questions and observations on what residents do on a daily basis and then using the engineering expertise to make that better, as simple as it may be. Now most planners engage the community by holding a formal public hearing or community meeting to get the neighborhoods together and planners ask the residents "what would you like to see in your neighborhood?" Marohn said what happens is that the people have different ideas. One may feel improved sidewalks are important, another may improve planting and the scenery, and another feels something else should be the priority. But they all agree that something like a splash pad would be great. "Now you have a mandate for a splash pad," Marohn said, another new project that doesn't address the connectivity issue nor improve how the residents currently use the city. The questions to Marohn from the government officials got into the weeds of building codes, zoning, and taxation but the premises of Strong Towns' concepts resonates with the city of Pittsfield, which has many of the same problems Marohn has seen elsewhere, problems he's also seen be solved by the development of programs and ideas that focus on the incremental growth from the downtown, out. Missouris last abortion clinic may close this week, because state officials there have threatened to not renew its license. And on Tuesday, the Supreme Court upheld an Indiana law that says aborted fetuses must be disposed of in the same way as human remains. The court at the same time blocked another Indiana law that would prevent a woman from having an abortion based on disability, sex or race. Ghana govt.to supply suitable fishing nets to fishermen to improve their trade May 27,2019 | Source: Graphic Online Ghana's Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Mrs. Elizabeth Afoley Quaye has revealed that government is in consultation to supply suitable fishing nets to fishermen at a reduced price as part of measures to support the fisheries sub sector. She said the fisheries sector provided economic livelihood to a large number of the population, particularly those in the coastal and inland enclaves which is estimated to be about 10 percent of the total population as envisaged by the Sustainable Development goal 8. Mrs. Afoley Quaye disclosed this when she made a presentation on Protecting Fisheries and Aquaculture for sustainable food supply and job creation at the 6th National Policy Summit in Cape Coast. The presentation by the Minister who is also Member of Parliament for Krowor Constituency focused on Governments Vision for the fishing sector, promoting Aquaculture Development, Enhancing Sustainable Marine Fisheries Management and Fisheries Infrastructure Development. The Minister stressed on governments vision as enshrined in the Medium Term National Development Policy Framework (2018 2021) to transform and grow the fisheries and aquaculture sub-sectors to increase their productive share in GDP over time. With the challenges being faced in the marine sub-sector, Government focus is to stimulate aquaculture production that will assist a drastic reduction in domestic fish imports for Ghana, and thereby increase foreign savings. This is a clear policy shift which emphasis increased aquaculture production as one of the key flagship of President Akufo-Addo. she said. Mrs. Afoley Quaye said government was determined to increase its support to the aquaculture industry with the objective of increasing domestic fish production to gradually offset the importation of fish and fishery products, and create additional job opportunities along the aquaculture value chain for the teaming unemployed youth particularly in rural communities. In this regard, the Government, through MoFAD is implementing the Aquaculture for Food and Jobs (AFJ) flagship programme to complement the ongoing National Planting for Food and Jobs Initiative. Under the AFJ programme, an estimated 10,200 unemployed youth will be mobilized into Aquaculture Enterprise Groups and supported with the necessary inputs such as fish feed, fingerlings, tanks and cages to engage in commercial fish farming. Economically viable and distressed aquaculture establishments, second cycle institutions and other public institutions will also be supported to set up new aquaculture production outlets. The programme is being implemented in collaboration with the Nation Builders Corps (NaBCo) and is estimated to create additional 7,000 direct and indirect jobs and provide 33,628mt additional fish annually for three years (2019-2021) she disclosed. 2010 - 2019. All Rights Reserved | Graphic Online | Owned and Operated by Graphic Communications Group Ltd. Theme(s): Fisheries Development and Aquaculture. Residents of Welsh village set to become UK's first climate refugees as soon as 2042 by Julia Conley May 27,2019 | Source: Common Dreams Residents of a Welsh coastal village are set to become the first climate refugees in the United Kingdom. The 850 residents of Fairbourne will meet next month to discuss a plan that the local lawmaking body, Gwynedd Council, is developing to evacuate the town by 2054 at the latest, amid concerns about rising sea levels. Gwynedd Council determined in 2013 that defending Fairbourne from the effects of the climate crisis would not be possible in the long term. The council, along with the national agency Natural Resources Wales, funded a $6 million flood management plan over the past four years. According to Wales Online, "there will be no money spent on defending this community of around 400 homes and 850 people after 2054," leading the council to decide recently that decommissioning the town must be considered and that "relocating residents is a certainty." A relocation scheme could go into effect as early as 2042. After the town is evacuated, all buildings, roads, and utilities will be dismantled, with Fairbourne converted into a tidal salt marsh, according to The Guardian. "Climate change is happening, and it is unfortunately only a matter of time before it has a very real human impact on coastal communities like Fairbourne," councillor Catrin Wager told Wales Online. "By talking to the community sooner rather than later, our aim is to work through these difficult issues together in order to give ourselves as much time as possible to come up with viable options and the best possible solutions," she added. The possibility of compensation will likely be discussed at the town meeting planned for June 26. As The Guardian reported last week, Fairbourne residents are not expected to receive financial aid from the Welsh government when they are forced to leave, making them the U.K.'s first climate refugees. A number of other coastal communities around the U.K. are likely to meet a similar fate. Both the British Parliament and Welsh lawmakers officially declared a climate emergency in recent weeks, under pressure from the global grassroots movement Extinction Rebellionbut campaigners responded promptly by ramping up pressure on government leaders to follow the declarations by taking meaningful action to solve the climate crisis and stop rising sea levels as well as other effects. "This is a wake-up call for the country," Bev Wilkins, who moved to Fairbourne in 2002, told The Guardian. "This is going to happen elsewhere. Sometimes you have to see someone else go through itwe just happen to be the first." 1997 2019 Common Dreams Theme(s): Communities and Organisations. The new mayor rewarded one alderman who did endorse her early on, Scott Waguespack, by making him her pick to chair the powerful Finance Committee. Its perhaps the most controversial part of her proposal, as some members say Waguespack hasnt built strong enough relationships with his colleagues to succeed in the pivotal post where he will need to shepherd through the council many of her most important pieces of legislation. Chicago architect Mark Miller, who recently completed his first true passive build in Gull Lake, Mich., said one of the first questions people ask is whether they should worry about fresh air are they going to suffocate? On the contrary, he said, because of the specialized ventilation system, the air quality is great, and people with allergies or asthma may even notice improvement in their symptoms. VANCOUVER With nuclear power facing an uncertain future in many countries, the world risks a steep decline in its use in advanced economies that could result in billions of tonnes of additional carbon emissions, according to a new report by the International Energy Agency. Nuclear is the second-largest low-carbon power source in the world today, accounting for 10% of global electricity generation. It is second only to hydropower at 16%. For advanced economies including the United States, Canada, the European Union and Japan nuclear has been the biggest low-carbon source of electricity for more than 30 years and remains so today. It plays an important role in electricity security in several countries. However, the future of nuclear power is uncertain as ageing plants are beginning to close in advanced economies, partly because of policies to phase them out but also as a result of economic and regulatory factors. Without policy changes, advanced economies could lose 25% of their nuclear capacity by 2025 and as much as two-thirds of it by 2040, according to the new report, Nuclear Power in a Clean Energy System. The lack of further lifetime extensions of existing nuclear plants and new projects could result in an additional 4 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions. Some countries have opted out of nuclear power in light of concerns about safety and other issues. Many others, however, still see a role for nuclear in their energy transitions but are not doing enough to meet their goals, according to the report. With its mission to cover all fuels and technologies, the IEA hopes that the publication of its first report addressing nuclear power in nearly two decades will help bring the topic back into the global energy debate. The report is being released during the 10th Clean Energy Ministerial in Vancouver, Canada. Without an important contribution from nuclear power, the global energy transition will be that much harder, said Dr Fatih Birol, the IEAs Executive Director. Alongside renewables, energy efficiency and other innovative technologies, nuclear can make a significant contribution to achieving sustainable energy goals and enhancing energy security. But unless the barriers it faces are overcome, its role will soon be on a steep decline worldwide, particularly in the United States, Europe and Japan. The new report finds that extending the operational life of existing nuclear plants requires substantial capital investment. But its cost is competitive with other electricity generation technologies, including new solar and wind projects, and can lead to a more secure, less disruptive energy transition. Market conditions remain unfavourable, however, for lengthening the lifetimes of nuclear plants. An extended period of low wholesale electricity prices in most advanced economies has sharply reduced or eliminated profit margins for many technologies, putting nuclear plants at risk of shutting down early. In the United States, for example, some 90 reactors have 60-year operating licenses, yet several have already retired early and many more are at risk. In Europe, Japan and other advanced economies, extensions of plants lifetimes also face uncertain prospects. Investment in new nuclear projects in advanced economies is even more difficult. New projects planned in Finland, France and the United States are not yet in service and have faced major cost overruns. Korea has been an important exception, with a record of completing construction of new projects on time and on budget, though government policy aims to end new nuclear construction. A sharp decline in nuclear power capacity in advanced economies would have major implications. Without additional lifetime extensions and new builds, achieving key sustainable energy goals, including international climate targets, would become more difficult and expensive. If other low-carbon sources, namely wind and solar PV, are to fill the shortfall in nuclear, their deployment would have to accelerate to an unprecedented level. In the past 20 years, wind and solar PV capacity has increased by about 580 gigawatts in advanced economies. But over the next 20 years, nearly five times that amount would need to be added. Such a drastic increase in renewable power generation would create serious challenges in integrating the new sources into the broader energy system. Clean energy transitions in advanced economies would also require $1.6 trillion in additional investment over the same period, which would end up hurting consumers through higher electricity bills. Policy makers hold the key to nuclear powers future, Dr Birol said. Electricity market design must value the environmental and energy security attributes of nuclear power and other clean energy sources. Governments should recognise the cost-competitiveness of safely extending the lifetimes of existing nuclear plants. As governments and industry address these challenges, the IEA is ready to provide support with data, analysis and real-world solutions. Beijing-based citizen journalist Xie Qiang was arrested on April 27 for picking quarrels and stirring up trouble and has not been heard from since. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) raises serious concerns about Xies wellbeing and whereabouts and call on the authorities to immediately confirm his location and grant his family access. Xie Qiang, who uses the pen name Ma Xiao has been immunicado since April 27. According to Radio Free Asia, he received a phone call from police and has not been seen since. On May 4, his family received a notice confirming Xie had been arrested under the deliberately vague charge of picking quarrels and stirring up trouble. Xie was a contributor to the US-based website Chinese Human Rights Defenders and has published a series of interviews with political prisoners on citizen-journalism website Boxun News since 2013. He is also a signatory of 08 Charter, which was initiated by Liu Xiaobo, the late Chinese human rights activist. Xie himself was previously detained for a short period in 2012, a few days before the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China. The IFJ said: We are extremely concerned about the arrest of Xie Qiang. Ones freedom should not be restricted just because of what he has written, the opinion he expressed, or during the sensitive times like the anniversary of Tiananmen Massacre. The Chinese government should ensure the freedom of expression and freedom of individuals. For those who are arrested, their rights to fair trial should be ensured - he should be notified with their charge, be able to contact the lawyer of their choice and his family. The condition of immunicado raised the concern that Xie may be subject to torture during these days. IFJ would call for the immediate release of Xie. A journalist with local television station Channel Mandalay was arrested covering a protest at a cement factory on May 15. He remains in police custody. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has strongly criticised the arrest and ongoing detention of the journalist, demanding his immediate release. According to the Myanmar Times, Nanda, a report with Channel Mandalay, was one of the four people who were detained by police after as they covered the protest at a cement factory in Aung Tha Pyay village in Patheingyi in central Myanmar. The editor-in-chief of Channel Mandalay, U Min Din, has made a statement following the arrest. In the statement, he said that the company will file charges under the Law Protecting the Privacy and Security of Citizens if the authorities do not release Nanda and charge him in court. U Min Din added Nanda was not among the protesters nor was he involved in any violence during the protest. The complaint over the arrest has been sent to Mandalays chief minister. The IFJ said: We call for the immediate release of Nanda and for any charges to be dropped. The fact that Nanda has been detained for over two weeks without charge raises serious questions about the governments commitment to press freedom. We demand the Myanmar authorities stop using detention to intimidate journalists. Imperial Valley News Center Protesting Restrictions on Cuban Political Prisoner Dr. Eduardo Cardet Washington, DC - The United States condemns the conditions placed on the movement and activities of Cuban human rights activist and political prisoner Dr. Eduardo Cardet. Cuban regime authorities not only unjustly sentenced Dr. Cardet to three years in prison after accusing him of criticizing former Cuban dictator Fidel Castro, but now impose restrictions on his release. These restrictions seek to stymie Dr. Cardets courageous efforts to promote human rights and fundamental freedoms for the Cuban people. According to multiple international NGOs, Cardet is one of more than 100 political prisoners the Cuban regime currently and unjustly incarcerates. We denounce the Cuban regimes deplorable prison conditions and continued abuses against Dr. Cardet and other political prisoners. And we call on the Cuban regime to release all political prisoners, immediately and without conditions. Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right. The Cuban regimes continued arbitrary detention of Cuban activists and independent thinkers shines a light on its own cowardice. Imperial Valley News Center Ethiopian Human Rights Abuser Sentenced for Fraudulently Obtaining U.S. Citizenship by Admitted Series of Lies in Naturalization Process Washington, DC - A naturalized U.S. citizen residing in Alexandria, Virginia was sentenced to 37 months in prison for having fraudulently obtained U.S. citizenship. Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Departments Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney G. Zachary Terwilliger of the Eastern District of Virginia and Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Lechleitner of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C made the announcement. Mergia Negussie Habteyes, 58, previously pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful procurement of naturalization. Negussie was sentenced by U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III of the Eastern District of Virginia. Negussie-Habteyes believed he could conceal his past participation in the brutal persecution of political dissidents in order to enjoy the benefits of U.S. citizenship and escape accountability in Ethiopia, said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski. This case demonstrates the Justice Departments continued commitment to ensuring that the United States does not become a safe haven for human rights violators. Negussie hid his past atrocities as a human rights abuser and lied his way into the United States, said U.S. Attorney Terwilliger. United States citizenship and the protections and privileges that accompany it is not intended for those who persecute their fellow man. My thanks to the prosecutors and law enforcement agents and officers for their outstanding work on this case. According to admissions in the plea agreement, Negussie participated in the persecution of detainees in Ethiopia from roughly 1977 to 1978 during a period of time known as the Red Terror. As part of actions led by a council of military officers in power at the time, known as the Derg, Negussie injured and abused detainees on account of their political opinion by beating them with weapons including belts, rods and other objects, causing permanent scarring and injury to some of the detainees. During these beatings, Negussie questioned the detainees about their affiliation with the Ethiopian Peoples Revolutionary Party (EPRP) and the opposition activities of the EPRP, which was politically opposed to the Derg. Negussie was able to come the United States in 1999 by telling a series of lies to U.S. immigration authorities. He ultimately obtained U.S. citizenship in 2008. He ultimately obtained U.S. citizenship in 2008. At his plea hearing, Negussie specifically admitted that, during his sworn naturalization interview, he falsely stated that he never persecuted persons because of their political opinion, and he failed to disclose that he had committed a crime or offense for which he was not arrested. In fact, as Negussie admitted, he had participated in the persecution and assaults against individuals imprisoned because of their political opinion. Additionally, Negussie admitted that he falsely stated that he never gave false or misleading information to any U.S. government official while applying for any immigration benefit and falsely stated that he never lied to U.S. immigration authorities to gain entry or admission into the United States and to obtain immigration benefits. Negussies materially false representations in sworn statements to U.S. immigration officials resulted in his procurement of naturalization contrary to law. In addition to sentencing Negussie to a period of incarceration, Negussies U.S. citizenship was also revoked. The case was investigated by ICE HSI Washington, D.C. and Sterling, Virginia Field Office with the support of the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center (HRVWCC). Established in 2009, the HRVWCC furthers the governments efforts to identify, locate and prosecute human rights abusers in the United States, including those who are known or suspected to have participated in persecution, war crimes, genocide, torture, extrajudicial killings, female genital mutilation and the use or recruitment of child soldiers. The HRVWCC leverages the expertise of a select group of agents, lawyers, intelligence and research specialists, historians and analysts who direct the governments broader enforcement efforts against these offenders. The HRVWCC is comprised of ICE HSIs Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Unit, ICEs Human Rights Law Section, FBIs International Human Rights Unit and the Justice Departments Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP). The case was jointly prosecuted by Trial Attorney Jamie Perry of the Criminal Divisions HRSP and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Blanchard of the Eastern District of Virginia. Imperial Valley News Center Ex-Credit Union Manager Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud in $40 Million Embezzlement that Rendered Institution Insolvent Los Angeles, California - The former manager of CBS Employees Federal Credit Union pleaded guilty to one felony count of bank fraud for embezzling $40 million from his employer over the course of 20 years spending the money on gambling; homes in California, Nevada and Mexico; and travel by private jet in a scheme that ultimately led to the credit union becoming insolvent. Edward Martin Rostohar, 62, of Studio City, entered his plea before United States District Judge Otis D. Wright II, who scheduled a sentencing hearing for September 16, where Rostohar will face a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison. According to his plea agreement, Rostohar used his position as a manager at the credit union, a federally insured financial institution, to make online payments from the credit union to himself or by forging the signature of another credit union employee on checks made payable to himself. Prior to his three decades of employment at the credit union, Rostohar was a trained accountant and an examiner at the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), a federal agency that regulates credit unions. During his approximately 20 years of embezzling from CBS Employees FCU, he used his senior position at the institution to falsify its records to hide his fraud and make credit union appear to be profitable despite it suffering more than $40 million in losses as a direct result of his scheme, the plea agreement states. Rostohar sometimes disguised his unauthorized payments, and hid the proceeds of the fraud, by directing the stolen funds to shell companies he controlled, court papers state. Rostohar also admitted to submitting credit union checks to make personal credit card payments. The scheme was exposed in March when a credit union employee, after discovering a $35,000 check payable to Rostohar, conducted an audit and discovered $3.8 million in checks made payable to Rostohar between January 2018 and March 2019. Rostohar told law enforcement he gambled away much of the money and spent the rest on traveling by private jet, buying expensive watches, and giving his wife a weekly allowance of $5,000, according to an affidavit filed with a criminal complaint in the case. Rostohar also started a coffee business in Reno, Nevada in December 2018, and he wrote tens of thousands of dollars worth of checks to himself to cover the businesss costs as well as to pay a $5,000 monthly mortgage on a home in Reno he recently purchased, according to court documents. Rostohar has agreed to forfeit his ill-gotten gains, including bank accounts in his name and the names of his shell companies, four automobiles, including a Porsche, a Tesla and a Lexus, homes in Studio City, Reno, and Mexico, expensive watches, and Tiffany jewelry. Rostohars long-running fraud resulted in the decision by the NCUA to liquidate the credit union and discontinue its operations after determining the Studio City-based CBS Employees was insolvent with no prospect of restoring viable operations on its own. In March, University Credit Union of Westwood assumed CBS Employees assets, loans, and all member shares. At the time of its liquidation and sale, CBS Employees served 2,798 members and had assets of $21,037,558, according to the credit unions most recent Call Report. Rostohar has been in federal custody since his arrest on March 13. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Los Angeles Police Department. This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew Brown of the Major Frauds Section and Victor Rodgers, deputy chief of the Asset Forfeiture Section. Imperial Valley News Center Charter School Founder and CEO Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison Los Angeles, California - The founder and ex-chief executive officer of Celerity Educational Group, a Koreatown-based non-profit owner and operator of charter schools, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for conspiring to misappropriate approximately $3.2 million in public education funds allocated to some of her companys schools. Vielka Maritza McFarlane, 56, of Sylmar, was sentenced by United States District Judge R. Gary Klausner, who told her, If you want to help your students, you can teach them that if they make mistakes, they have to pay the price and be responsible for their own actions. McFarlane, who pleaded guilty on January 8 to one count of conspiracy to misappropriate and embezzle public funds, founded Celerity Educational Group in 2004 and served as its CEO until April 2015. Between April 2012 and April 2017, McFarlane also was CEO of Celerity Global Development, a non-profit California corporation, which provided various management services to the Celerity charter schools in exchange for a percentage of the schools revenues. From July 2009 to April 2017, McFarlane and her co-conspirators caused the Celerity charter schools and Celerity Educational Group to falsely certify to federal, state and local authorities that they were complying with all rules and regulations governing the use of public funds that they received. McFarlane used public funds money that should have been spent on educational purposes at Celerity charter schools in Los Angeles, Compton and Pasadena for a variety of personal expenses and improper expenditures. Those expenses included unauthorized first-class airfare and foreign travel, luxury items purchased from shops in Beverly Hills and Tokyo, expensive meals at high-end restaurants, airfare and lodging for herself, her family members, and others in January 2013 to attend President Barack Obamas second inauguration, and customized recreational bicycles for the use of McFarlane and her spouse. Every dollar defendant spent on herself and her family members, whether it was for alcoholic drinks at expensive restaurants or checked bags for her trip to Washington, D.C., for a presidential inauguration, was a dollar less for the underserved yet deserving children of the Celerity Charter Schools and an insult to the hardworking individuals of Los Angeles who pay their taxes to help fund these needed schools, prosecutors wrote in the governments sentencing papers. From late 2012 to June 2014, McFarlane also conspired to use approximately $3 million in public funds a substantial portion of which came from the United States Department of Education awarded to Celeritys charter schools in Los Angeles to purchase and renovate an office building in Columbus, Ohio, where she oversaw the founding of a separate charter school. McFarlane also used public funds awarded to the Celerity charters schools in 2013 to pay $157,957 for the security deposit, monthly rent and renovations at a soundstage and recording studio in Canoga Park, which was rarely used by the Celerity charter schools. McFarlane pursued a proposal to allow a digital-production company to use the studio space in exchange for 200,000 shares in the digital-production company, which would have been issued to a separate for-profit media-production business called The Muse Collective. She admitted in her plea agreement that the payments for her personal use, the Ohio property purchase, and the Canoga Village studio were improper; she lacked authorization to make those payments and expenditures; and the payments violated rules, regulations and laws governing the use of public funds that the Celerity charter schools received. Grace Canada, another Celerity executive, has pleaded not guilty to a 23-count federal grand injury indictment alleging conspiracy and wire fraud, among other offenses. She is scheduled to go to trial on November 12. In June 2017, the U.S. Attorneys Office entered into a Non-Prosecution Agreement with Celerity Educational Group, now known as ISANA Academies, in which ISANA recognized and acknowledged the misconduct committed by McFarlane, agreed to cooperate fully with the governments investigation, and agreed to implement certain reforms designed to ensure that similar conduct does not occur again. By entering into the Non-Prosecution Agreement, the U.S. Attorneys Office recognized that ISANA is responsible for educating thousands of students from underserved neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles County, and has demonstrated a strong commitment to its students and their academic achievement. The reforms now implemented by ISANA should allow it to continue serving its students and communities. The United States Attorneys Office recognizes the cooperation of ISANA and its board of directors throughout its ongoing investigation. This case was investigated by the United States Department of Education, Office of Inspector General; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service; IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Secret Service. The Los Angeles Unified School Districts Office of Inspector General was also part of the investigative team and has played an instrumental role in the ongoing investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Julian L. Andre and Valerie L. Makarewicz of the Major Frauds Section. Imperial Valley News Center President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Advance the United States and Japans Global Partnership Tokyo, Japan - President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Advance the United States and Japans Global Partnership. President Donald J. Trump visited Japan May 2528. During this historic visit, the President and First Lady Melania Trump congratulated Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress on the Emperors enthronement as the new Emperor of Japan. The President renewed the strong bonds of friendship between our two countries during the new era of Reiwa. The President and Prime Minister Abe reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.-Japan alliance and noted that it is the cornerstone of peace and security in the Indo-Pacific. The two leaders also highlighted steps taken to strengthen security, economic, scientific, and cultural cooperation. True Global Partnership President Trump and Prime Minister Abe have enhanced and deepened our shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region and, in a new era of U.S.-Japan relations, have built a true global partnership. Under President Trump, the United States and Japan have negotiated a series of beneficial agreements, including on energy and infrastructure investment in November 2017. The United States and Japan are working to advance a rules-based maritime order, improve energy security, ensure secure and resilient telecommunications systems, and boost resiliency to natural disasters. Robust Security Alliance President Trump and Prime Minister Abe highlighted the need for an increasingly networked structure of alliances and partnerships, anchored by the U.S.-Japan Alliance, to counter challenges to the United States and Japans shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe noted that the U.S.-Japan Alliance is both a model and a platform for binding those allies and partners closer together to uphold the rules-based order in the region. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe reaffirmed that international law applies in cyberspace and that a cyber attack could, in certain circumstances, constitute an armed attack under the U.S.-Japan Security Treaty. They also reaffirmed that a decision as to when a cyber attack would constitute an armed attack under Article V would be made on a case-by-case basis, and through close consultations between Japan and the United States, as would be the case for any other threat. Japan committed to strengthening and enhancing information security practices to protect classified information, maintain technological superiority, and preserve our shared economic and defense advantages. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe emphasized the need for greater supply chain security, noting threats to the defense industrial base, national networks, and critical infrastructure. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe reaffirmed their commitment to the realignment of United States forces in Japan to maintain United States armed forces operational readiness and deterrent capability while mitigating the impact on local communities. Space, Technology, and Science Leadership President Trump and Prime Minister Abe agreed on the importance of a sustained human presence on and around the Moon. Building on its International Space Station (ISS) experience, Japanese astronauts will strive to join American astronauts on the Moon and destinations beyond. Meaningful cooperation, such as on ISS, the future exchange of samples from Japans Hayabusa2 and NASAs OSIRIS-REx missions, and future partnership on the Martian Moon eXplorer (MMX) mission, enables fundamental research and technology development, serves as an inspiration for future generations, and advances joint human and robotic exploration endeavors. The April 2019 U.S.-Japan Security Consultative Committee (2+2) highlighted space as a priority area to better prepare the U.S.-Japan Alliance for cross-domain operations. The United States and Japan met for the 14th Joint High Level Committee (JHLC) Meeting on Science and Technology Cooperation on May 2, 2019 in Washington, D.C. to advance our nations science and technology leadership. S.-Japan cooperation provides the basis for scientific, technological, and economic progress that benefits both nations. The JHLC advanced cooperation in energy, bioscience, precision medicine, future workforce development, the use of emerging technologies, quantum science, space, and artificial intelligence. Nearly six decades of health and bioscience U.S.-Japan cooperation has achieved profound breakthroughs in cancer and infectious disease research, food and drug safety, support for aging populations, bioscience technologies, and influenza and emergency preparedness. In early 2019, both nations convened the 21st International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases in the Pacific Rim with the shared objectives of making the world safer from pandemics and promoting One Health Principles and bioscience globally. Strategic Energy Partners The Japan-U.S. Strategic Energy Partnership (JUSEP) is deepening cooperation on power sector and transmission grid development, particularly in the Mekong Region and in Africa, to grow sustainable and secure energy markets, increase energy diversification and trade, and expand energy access across the region. The two sides are deepening civil nuclear cooperation, including in innovation, commercial cooperation in specific markets, nuclear decommissioning, training and capacity building to ensure the highest standards of nuclear safety, security and nonproliferation. JUSEP is exploring means to unleash value in energy and infrastructure by catalyzing private capital. Cooperation will be targeted to develop deep and liquid debt markets for energy and infrastructure investments by catalyzing private capita and identifying avenues to increase and enhance investment opportunities for Japan industry in the U.S. energy and infrastructure market. The JUSEP Power Sector Business Initiative leveraged Japans $10 billion in financing to stimulate investment in energy projects. S. and Japanese companies cooperate on these projects in the United Arab Emirates, Taiwan, Mozambique, and Indonesia. Expanding and deepening energy and quality infrastructure cooperation through training and capacity building programs for third countries. This cooperation aligns Japans energy capacity building efforts with the U.S. Asia EDGE (Enhancing Development and Growth through Energy) Initiative and includes activities such as liquefied natural gas value chain and procurement training in Southeast Asia. Fostering the Digital Economy The Japan-U.S. Strategic Digital Economy Partnership (JUSDEP) supports secure digital connectivity and develops the digital economy in third countries by facilitating high-standard investments. This Partnership aligns Japans public financing and capacity building initiatives with the United States Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership and related initiatives such as the U.S.-ASEAN Smart Cities Partnership. JUSDEPs core principles are encouraging innovation and enabling digital trade, countering digital protectionism and the illegitimate use of data by authoritarian governments, promoting the free flow of data, and protecting privacy and intellectual property rights. Initial activities include: Collaboration on smart cities with an initial, primary focus on ASEAN to improve the lives of people by applying best practices to advancing the digital transformation of urban systems. Strengthening cybersecurity capacity building cooperation to ensure partner nations can develop robust and secure digital economies. Fostering Centers of Excellence to share cybersecurity best practices and enhance the digital economy. Promoting digital connectivity and services that respect human rights, uphold our shared values, and support policies to enable an open, interoperable, reliable, and secure Internet. Furthering the deployment of secure and reliable information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and the implementation of telecommunication principles that foster secure, reliable, and trusted supply chains. Enhancing standards cooperation to foster leadership in the development of global ICT standards. Advancing Prosperity Together Bilateral economic ties are strengthened by Japans continued foreign direct investment into the United States. Japan is the 3rd largest source of investment, the 3rd largest contributor to U.S. research and development spending, and the second largest contributor to U.S. employment and the top contributor to manufacturing-based employment overall. Toyota recently announced that by 2021 it will invest nearly $13 billion in its U.S. operations with plans to add nearly 600 new jobs at American manufacturing plants. Also, Toyota, Softbank and Denso announced a $1 billion dollar investment to help Uber develop self-driving cars and technology. Championing Free and Open Societies Imperial Valley News Center Navy Sailor Sentenced for Attempted Communication of Classified National Defense Information San Diego, California - U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Stephen Kellogg III was sentenced at a general court-martial to three years of confinement after pleading guilty to charges related to the illegal communication of national defense information. Kellogg will receive a dishonorable discharge from the Navy and a reduction in rank from E-5 to E-1. From May to September 2018, Kellogg, 26, served aboard the nuclear-powered warship USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) as a Nuclear Electricians Mate (EMN2). In this position, Kellogg had access to classified national defense information relating to the capabilities, operations, and maintenance of Navy nuclear propulsion systems. According to a pretrial agreement, Kellogg admitted that while on active duty on August 27, 2018, he attempted to board a commercial airline from San Diego, California, to New York City with the intention of providing classified information regarding the U.S. Navys nuclear-powered warships to a journalist whom he thought would release the information to the public. Kellogg separately admitted to, in July and August 2018, telling his roommate that he was planning to defect to Russia. During this time-period, Kellogg searched the Internet for information relating to flights to Moscow, contact information for the Russian Consulate in San Diego, and contact information for Sevmash, a Russian shipbuilding enterprise. He wrote to an email address associated with Sevmash stating, I am willing. Furthermore, Kellogg admitted that, in May and August 2018, he photographed controlled spaces containing sensitive Navy Nuclear Propulsion Program information aboard the USS Vinson. He then communicated those photos to his father and ex-girlfriend, neither of whom possess a security clearance nor have a need to know about classified Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program information. Kellogg also admitted that during June 2018 to August 2018, he failed to obey a lawful general order by wrongfully storing classified information in his berthing. The FBI is committed to protecting the nations critical assets, advanced technologies and sensitive information in the defense sector against all counterintelligence threats. said Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Suzanne Turner. As demonstrated by this case, the FBI works closely with NCIS to investigate and prosecute those military members who intentionally risk our national security and violate the oath they took to protect our nation. This sailors attempts to disclose classified Navy nuclear propulsion information posed a significant threat to national security and endangered the lives of American service members, said Special Agent in Charge Garrett Waugh of the Southwest Field Office. NCIS will continue to prioritize counterintelligence efforts as well as investigate and disrupt espionage activity directed at the Navy and Marine Corps. The investigation was conducted jointly by the Federal Bureau of Investigation - San Diego Division and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service - Southwest Field Office. Investigators were also assisted by the San Diego Harbor Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Cmdr. Chris Czaplak, U.S. Navy Judge Advocate Generals Corps, Senior Trial Counsel, Region Legal Service Office Southwest, Naval Base San Diego. DEFENDANT Stephen Kellogg III, Age: 26 Charge 1: Violation of the UCMJ, Article 134 Title 18, United States Code, 793(d). Statutory maximum: Offense not capital Charge 2: Violation of the UCMJ, Article 134 Title 18, United States Code, 793(d). Statutory maximum: Offense not capital Charge 3: Violation of the UCMJ, Article 92 Failure to Obey a Lawful General Order AGENCIES Federal Bureau of Investigation Naval Criminal Investigative Service Ex-Mirae Bank Executive Sentenced to More than 5 Years in Prison for Loan Fraud Los Angeles, California - The former chief marketing officer at the now-defunct Mirae Bank was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for his role in a scheme that caused the Koreatown-based lender to issue more than $15 million in fraudulent loans, and ultimately caused the bank to suffer severe losses. Ataollah Aminpour, 60, of Beverly Hills, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Dale S. Fischer, who also ordered Aminpour to pay $7,519,084 in restitution. Judge Fischer then remanded Aminpour, who had been on bond, into federal custody to begin serving his sentence immediately. Aminpour, who is also known as John and Johnny Aminpour, pleaded guilty in December 2017 to one felony count of making a false statement to a financial institution. According to court documents, Aminpour held himself out as a successful businessman who could help people obtain financing for gas station and car wash businesses with little or no down payment. In some instances, Aminpour would identify a business for the borrower to purchase, and would negotiate the sales price. On the commercial loan applications that Aminpour would submit to the bank on behalf of the borrower, however, Aminpour would overstate the actual purchase price of the business, thereby causing the bank to issue inflated loan amounts that were not fully secured. From 2005 to 2007, Aminpour, along with other participants, submitted fraudulent commercial loan applications to Mirae Bank, a federally insured financial institution. In his role as a senior bank executive, Aminpour submitted and knowingly caused others to submit false information not only about the true purchase price of the business but also about the assets of the borrowers and the finances of the businesses being purchased. Aminpour also allowed borrowers to circumvent the banks down payment requirements by arranging for money to be transferred into escrow accounts so it would falsely appear to Mirae Bank that the borrowers were making large down payments. As a result, borrowers were able to acquire businesses with little to no money down, with Aminpour earning commissions as a result and, in some instances, with Aminpour misappropriating the excess loan proceeds for himself. For example, Aminpour made false statements to Mirae Bank in an application for a $4.2 million loan in connection with the purchase a car wash in Maywood. When he pleaded guilty, Aminpour admitted that, on the application, he falsely stated that the purchase price of the car wash was $6.65 million when the real purchase price was $3.25 million. In his plea agreement, Aminpour further admitted that his scheme involved false statements in six loan applications submitted between November 2005 and February 2007 for loans totaling $16.7 million, and that losses on those loans exceeded $7.5 million. In addition to the loans charged as part of the fraud in this case, Aminpour referred approximately $150 million in loans to Mirae Bank, and the losses on those loans played a significant role in the banks collapse in 2009, according to court documents. After the banks failure, the FDIC took over Mirae Bank as its receiver. FDIC and Wilshire Bank, which acquired Mirae Banks assets from FDIC, together suffered more than $33 million in losses on the Aminpour-referred loans. Wilshire Bank was subsequently acquired by, and now does business as, Bank of Hope. The case was investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporations Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program (SIGTARP), and the Federal Housing Finance Agencys Office of Inspector General. This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kerry L. Quinn of the Major Frauds Section. Prisoner Sentenced to over 8 Years in Prison for Mailing Threats to Murder a Federal Judge Fresno, California - Cyrus Dennis Braswell, 57, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd to eight years and one month in prison for three counts of mailing threatening communications, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced. On February 13, a federal jury found Braswell guilty of mailing threats against a federal judge in the District of Alaska who had sentenced Braswell in 1998. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, while an inmate at Mendota Federal Correctional Institute in Fresno County, Braswell mailed communications to Alaska in which he threatened to murder the judge after he got out of prison. This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Prisons. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura D. Withers and Kirk E. Sheriff prosecuted the case. Braswell currently remains in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons, and he will serve the new sentence after he completes his original 1998 sentence. Kendra Scott has proven that you can build a major national brand from extremely humble beginnings. Scott started her eponymous jewelry and lifestyle brand in her spare bedroom with $500. Today, it's a billion-dollar company. Much of that success, she said on stage last week at the Inc. Fast Growth Tour in Chicago, can be attributed to a savvy hiring strategy. Scott explained that she assembled a team that has fully committed to the company's mission and three core pillars--family, fashion, and philanthropy. "When you have those people working for something that's so much bigger than just a product, you have loyalty," she said. "That's the key. We hire people with a like-minded heart and spirit." But how exactly do you find those hires? In the on-stage interview, Scott offered insight on three of her best hiring practices. 1. Let employees interview their future boss. Scott said that during her company's hiring process, current employees may interview a candidate who would become their boss. It's a good way to test the waters for cultural fit. "I do that a lot," Scott said. "Because of anyone, I want their buy-in. I want to know that they're excited about the person coming in." 2. Value cultural fit over credentials. When selecting a candidate, Scott said she'll take spirit over experience every time. "I've learned my lesson hiring strictly on resume," she said. "At the end of the day, if they didn't match our core values, it was a disaster and I ended up losing other great people within the company--and that's time and money." Scott noted that there's a considerable cost to training and onboarding every new employee, so it's "much better to take your time when hiring to make sure it's a cultural fit. I promise you, you'll never regret it." 3. Don't hire someone if there's any doubt at all. Scott said that candidates go through multiple interviews with a variety of current employees, and at the end of the process everyone gathers to offer their opinions. She said that if the reaction is not unanimously "'Oh my God, yes! I love that person,' or there's a little 'Meh, there's a couple things...', then I'm like, 'Nope. We gotta feel great.'" Editor's note: Inc.'s Lindsay Blakely will be interviewing Adam Lowry at our Fast Growth Tour San Francisco event Thursday June 6. As the co-founder of two wildly successful startups, Adam Lowry has had to address virtually every difficult issue that growing businesses face. Lowry is the co-founder and co-CEO of pea-protein dairy alternative maker Ripple Foods, which he launched with Neil Renninger in 2015. Prior to Ripple, he partnered with Eric Ryan to found Method, a household cleaning product company that sold to Belgian manufacturer Ecover in 2012 for an undisclosed price. At Inc.'s Fast Growth Tour in Chicago last week, Lowry passed on some of his hard-won wisdom in an onstage conversation with Mansueto Ventures CEO Eric Schurenberg. Among other topics, he offered the audience advice on how to pick a business partner, assess potential buyers and investors, and overcome your mistakes. 1. How to select the perfect co-founder Lowry suggested that entrepreneurs who are weighing whether they want a co-founder, or deciding whom to pick, should think of the relationship as a marriage. "I spent as much time with [Eric and Neil] as I have with my wife," he said. When you're considering partnering with someone, make sure you have complementary abilities. For example, Lowry said, he was the scientist at Method, while Ryan handled the marketing needs. In the company's early days, he related, Ryan was out with a client and called him to make sure Method's toilet bowl cleaner was safe to drink--only after having taken a swig to prove it was superior to other companies' products. Ryan was fine, and Method ultimately built a reputation on selling nontoxic cleaners. "If you're going to do something meaningful, you need to find people you can surround yourself with who have skills you don't have," Lowry said. "That's what I'm always looking for, whether it's a co-founder or just an executive team." 2. How to find the right buyer or investor For entrepreneurs thinking of selling their businesses, Lowry suggested looking at a prospective buyer's long-term vision to determine whether it aligns with the company's. Secondly, explore how the acquiring company would react when "shit hits the fan, because it's going to--it happened at Method and at Ripple," Lowry said. "How are they going to navigate through the ups and downs?" Lastly, he advised entrepreneurs to look at the would-be buyer's mindset. For example, is the company focused on helping your startup or your investors? "There's no secret recipe for how you figure it out," Lowry said. "It's really about the types of questions you ask." 3. How to recover from mistakes or failures While Lowry built two successful companies, it didn't come without some failures along the way. In his remarks, he didn't hide those moments and said he believes other founders should celebrate what they've learned from their own difficulties. For example, around 2007, Method faced what Lowry called a self-inflicted wound: As a result of management missteps, he had to shrink the company by 30 percent, which meant laying off a third of the 80-person staff at the height of the recession. "It was the worst moment of my career," he said. "I had to lay off one of my best friends, a groomsman in my wedding." The Small Business Administration (SBA) estimates that enterprising Americans start over 627,000 new businesses every year. Thanks to these fine entrepreneurial folks, you can grab a coffee and hit the gym while someone else walks your dog, does your taxes, optimizes your webpage, plans your daughter's wedding, and writes up your divorce settlement all on the same morning. Perhaps you're itching to enter the fray. You have a great idea for a business of your own; you're ready to jump off the 9-to-5 treadmill and hit the open road. Good for you. I made an identical leap as a naive 22-year-old, and it led to a satisfying and lucrative career. But I would be remiss to cite the amazing numbers in the first paragraph without quoting another SBA statistic--namely that 66 percent of new businesses fail within a decade of opening their doors. The better your preparation, the better your chances of beating those odds. Here are some signs you're slightly ahead of the pack: You've created a business plan. It's one thing to dream about opening a business, and another to roll up your sleeves and build a proper foundation. One of the key ingredients to that groundwork is a business plan. Your business plan should focus on your business goals and outline steps for reaching them. It should anticipate potential setbacks and offer steps to overcoming them. Ideally, it'll take a bold look at the most important question of all: Is your idea meeting an unfulfilled need or substantially improving on options already available to consumers? If the answer is yes, your business plan should explore methods for getting your idea off the ground, including specific timetables regarding critical milestones, so you'll have an objective means of keeping track of your progress. You've sought advice from the right people. You're contemplating a life-changing step. One sign you're serious is that you look for feedback from folks unafraid to give it to you straight. If you only approach family and friends, you run the risk of hearing what you want to hear: uniformly encouraging feedback. Look for cynics instead. At this stage of the process, tough love reigns supreme. Preaching to the choir and hearing a chorus of hallelujahs might taste sweet at the moment, but it'll rapidly lose its flavor once reality sets in. When I left school to start a company, I found naysayers served at least two purposes. One was they forced me to reexamine my strategy for blind spots and weaknesses. The other was they woke up the competitor in me--I became even more ambitious to do a killer job. You're familiar with your industry. My first business focused on repairing and manufacturing commercial signs. I was ready for it because I worked for a guy who did the same thing in Utah. Once I showed enough aptitude, he encouraged me to return to my home state of Idaho and open my own place. I hit the ground running because I was intimately familiar with the tools and terminology of my chosen vertical. It wasn't easy to break in and establish a name for myself--far from it--but it was a hell of a lot simpler than charging forward in a field I knew nothing about. Prior employment in your industry isn't necessary for success, but exhaustive research is. Talk to entrepreneurs who are already established; pick their brains for insider insights about time-saving techniques and potential pitfalls. Read, read, read. Thorough study will put the wind at your back instead of directly in your face. You've thought about costs. Money is the fuel that drives business ideas forward; lack of it leads to abandoned cars at the side of the road. I didn't quit school or my day job until I'd done the math and established that I had enough funding to find a few clients, get the lay of the land, and still buy groceries for my family. Formal financing, on the other hand--such as a bank loan or generous terms from vendors--was a major blind spot I soon learned to regret. I'd been taught my whole life that debt was an unmitigated evil, and paying cash for everything an unparalleled virtue. Subsequently, I had zero credit history. I found myself in the awkward position of potential lenders having no method of assessing me for risk. I qualified for one American Express card with a $500 spending limit, but that was it. Like most founders of fast-growing startups, Manny Medina spends a lot of time worrying about office space. It started when his then-20-person Seattle sales software company, Outreach, moved into a large office with what seemed like plenty of room to grow. Business boomed, and he started hiring--until his landlord refused to issue key cards for his new employees. It turned out Medina had signed a lease with a certified green building that imposed strict limitations on the number of occupants per square foot. So he rented a floor in a building across the street--on the opposite side of a busy intersection. "People would literally not walk across the street for a meeting," he recalls. Outreach ultimately moved four times in three years as its headquarters swelled to 250-plus staffers. Along the way, CEO Medina and his co-founders had to deal with everything from unforgiving subleases to employee commute concerns--which are just some of the logistical, financial, and even legal challenges that startups can face as they outgrow co-working spaces (or founders' basements). According to design firm Knoll, startups experience the greatest amount of office-space friction when they're between 30 and 74 employees. It's common to move several times during these years, as you try to anticipate your company's long-term staffing needs--and avoid getting locked into expensive or restrictive long-term leases. So, while your head count is still in double digits, look for one- to two-year leases, advises Justin Agans, a startup lawyer in Charlotte, North Carolina. "You can kind of deal with anything for a year," he says. If you can't find an agreement for less than three to 10 years, ask for language that requires a landlord to allow you to find a subletter in case your company has to break the lease--for good or bad reasons. "Whether you experience explosive growth or things just don't work out with the business, it's important to understand how you can get out of the space if you need to," says Tricia Meyer, a Chicago-based business attorney and founder of Meyer Law. Landlords tend to be more willing to negotiate in up-and-coming areas committed to economic development. Phone2Action, which makes advocacy software, found a five-year tenant-favorable lease by moving to Arlington County, near Washington, D.C., where Amazon plans to open its headquarters. The company received funding to train employees and a $50,000 grant from the Arlington Economic Development bureau, which it used to help build out a new office, says co-founder and CEO Jeb Ory. A good relationship with your city can also make it easier to learn which federal, state, and city workplace laws apply to your office. Ory, for instance, is in the process of improving Phone2Action's "mothers' room" (as of 2010, the federal Fair Labor Standards Act requires most businesses to provide a place other than a bathroom for nursing moms to express breast milk). Your state's department of labor should provide information online about what your business must do to comply with its laws, but these requirements are often onerous enough to justify legal counsel. If you can't hire a full-time lawyer, consider paying one to put together a checklist, so you can make the necessary office updates on your own, suggests Doug Bend, a San Francisco-based business attorney. Finally, talk to employees to get ahead of less obvious issues, from coffee complaints to office decor. Ryan Matzner, co-founder of app design company Fueled, built an employee feedback program after relocating offices in New York City last April. The program was designed to give staff some say over their workspace. ("You spend more time in your office than you do in your living room," Matzner notes.) But Fueled also deferred making many decisions--like where plants should go--before actually spending time in the office. On a grey day when youre feeling blue and youve spent too much time on social media getting green with envy at other peoples perfect lives, its all too easy to sink into a black mood. Could a change of outfit put you back in the pink? The link between colour and emotion is written into our language. But do the colours with which we surround ourselves actually have the power to change the way we feel? The ancient Egyptians certainly thought so. They were among the first to practise chromotherapy, using coloured minerals, stones and dyes to treat the sick. They also created special rooms in their temples where they used refracted light to bathe their patients in colour. A thousand years later, in the 11th century, Persian physician and philosopher Avicenna drew up a chart that matched colours to what he believed to be their physiological effects. He proposed that while red increased blood flow, blue could reduce it. Meanwhile he thought that yellow helped reduce inflammation and could ease muscle pain. More recently, there have been myriad scientific studies of the effects of colour on human physiology and psychology and Avicennas theories have been borne out. Red really does increase blood pressure. Blue really is calming. After blue lights were installed on the platforms of Toykos Yamamote railway line, attempts by people to take their own lives there reduced dramatically. Deforestation of the Amazon has increased by 20 per cent in the past year, according to a non-governmental group that has been monitoring the rainforest for two decades. Uncontrolled logging and land invasion has been blamed by analysts for much of the loss, some of which occurred in protected areas and Indigenous reserves. Environmental group Imazon said satellite imagery showed the region lost 2,169 square kilometres (837 square miles) of forest between August and April. This is up from 1,807 square kilometres lost over the same period the previous year. The group's monitoring year begins with August, to match Brazil's dry season, when logging rates are usually at their highest. The country's president Jair Bolsonaro and his environment minister Ricardo de Aquino Salles have questioned the reality of climate change and spoken in favour of expanding mining and industrial farming into the Amazon and protected areas. Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures Show all 15 1 /15 Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures A wildcat gold miner, or garimpeiro, works at a mine in a deforested area of Amazon rainforest near Crepurizao Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures Workers carry a diesel engine towards a river Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures Miners use high-pressure jets of water to dislodge rock material Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures A miner surveys the situation at one of the gold digging sites Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures A miner watches his colleague at work Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures Workers rub mercury that has coagulated into tiny particles of gold in a basin Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures A miner down the bottom of a garimpo Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures Working at one of the mines Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures Miners carrying a diesel container Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures A garimpeiro works on a sluice box where the heavier gold is caught after sucking up mud Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures A wildcat gold miner holds up gold before selling it in a nearby village Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures A worker rests in a hammock after a long day Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures The owner of a pharmacy poses inside her shop in a miners' village Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures A garimpeiro smokes by the bar after a day at the mines Reuters/Nacho Doce Illegal Amazon gold mines: In pictures The son of a wildcat gold miner wears his father's shoes and helmet, inside the village bar Reuters/Nacho Doce Both believe environmental laws and activist groups often work to hinder Brazils economic potential. Mr Salles said earlier this month that he wanted to overhaul the Amazon Fund, an initiative created to contain deforestation in an area of nearly seven million square kilometres (2.7 million square miles). He was scheduled to meet with representatives of the German and Norwegian governments, two of the funds main contributors, this week. Mr Salles has said his ministry reviewed 103 contracts awarded by the fund to non-profit groups, about a third of all contracts signed since its launch in 2008. He said the inquiry found irregularities in all 103 contracts, but he did not give any specific cases, citing confidentiality clauses until a review by auditors. He reiterated his intention to shake up the fund by tightening rules and supervision over the allocation of contracts and the choice of projects that can get funding in a recent interview with Globo TV. We want better results to reverse the rise in deforestation, Mr Salles said, adding that he wanted measurable results and a return on investment. He could not give more details about the ministrys proposed changes before discussing them with Norway and Germany, he said. Brazils state oil company, Petrobras, is the funds third biggest contributor. The fund was created to receive donations to help prevent, monitor and combat deforestation in the Amazon rainforest, a vast area rich in biodiversity and whose preservation is seen as essential to curbing climate change. Additional reporting by Associated Press Elephants should not be hunted. But despite a ban on the international trade in ivory, a colossal black market exists. The impact is devastating. To satisfy demand, which mostly comes from China, around 10,000 to 15,000 elephants are slaughtered every year or roughly 40 a day. No other part of these huge animals is used by poachers, and the carcasses are left to rot. No-deal Brexit is more an abstract concept than a policy option/proposal. As concept, it is like Britains Trident nuclear missiles a weapon so terrible that using it would invite retaliation and, thus, vast damage to both sides in any conflict. If the threat of such use is credible, that very fact makes the actual use of it unnecessary the deterrent effect. As Boris Johnson explains it: No one sensible would aim exclusively for a no-deal outcome. No one responsible would take no deal off the table. Burn-out is a phrase you mightve heard banded around over the years to describe feeling physically and emotionally run down. While some couldve been tempted to dismiss burn-out as millennial jargon, it has now been added to the World Health Organisations (WHO) International Classification of Diseases, meaning that it will become a globally-recognised medical condition as of 2020. The WHO defines burn-out as chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It characterises the condition with the following symptoms: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; increased mental distance from ones job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to ones job; and reduced professional efficacy. The WHO only refers to such feelings within work environments and clarifies that burn-out should not be applied to describe symptoms caused by other life situations. A selection of the most powerful millennials in the world Show all 5 1 /5 A selection of the most powerful millennials in the world A selection of the most powerful millennials in the world Kim Jong-un A selection of the most powerful millennials in the world Mhairi Black A selection of the most powerful millennials in the world Neymar A selection of the most powerful millennials in the world Kim Kardashian-West A selection of the most powerful millennials in the world Alexander Wang A spokesperson for the WHO told Agence Presse France on Monday that its the first time burnout has been classified as a medical condition by any official health body. The phrase burn-out syndrome is credited to German-born psychologist Herbert Freudenberger, who used the term in a 1974 study of the condition. Freudenberger analysed the phenomenon after he observed it in some of his colleagues, who described themselves as being burnt out and later also experienced it himself. The psychologist described the state of being burnt out as becoming exhausted by making excessive demands on energy, strength, or resources. In January 2019, a Buzzfeed article titled How Millennials Became the Burnout Generation went viral. Writer Anne Helen Peterson was praised for accurately describing how and why the condition is impacting people aged 18 to 34 and in some cases rendering them emotionally and physically paralysed. However, unlike the WHO, Peterson recognises burn-out in areas outside of the workplace, writing: Burnout and the behaviours and weight that accompany it arent, in fact, something we can cure by going on vacation. Its not limited to workers in acutely high-stress environments. And its not a temporary affliction: Its the millennial condition. Its our base temperature. Its our background music. Its the way things are. Its our lives. Celebrity chef Nigella Lawson will open the UKs first cookery school for people living with cancer next month. From Tuesday 4 June, the non-profit organisation Life Kitchen will offer free cookery classes to those living with the disease in order to encourage a love of cooking and eating through accessible and creative recipes. The school, which will be based in Mowbray Park Sunderland, will host cooking classes for cancer sufferers who may suffer from a loss of taste as a result of undergoing cancer treatments. A side effect of chemotherapy drugs can include the changing of taste receptor cells in the mouth with some sufferers saying food can taste metallic. Food writer and stylist Ryan Riley founded Life Kitchen in 2018 in memory of his mother who passed away from small cell lung cancer in 2014. Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Show all 13 1 /13 Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Joanna, Newcastle (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Mel, Merseyside (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Lucy, Wakefield (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Sharon, Bath (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Jan, Hereford (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Gillian, London (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Fiona, Northampton (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Anon S, West Midlands (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Debbie W, Worcestershire (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Debbie B, York (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Clare, North Lincolnshire (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Caroline, Brancaster (Image: Ami Barwell) Mastectomy: Stand Up To Cancer launches powerful photo campaign Anon (Image: Ami Barwell) Like many cancer sufferers, Rileys mother struggled with the loss of taste and appetite during chemotherapy treatment. "My mother couldnt taste anything," Riley tells The Independent about his mother's experience. "The only thing she enjoyed was ice pops." Ryan Riley hosts pop-up Life Kitchen cookery session for cancer patients (Life Kitchen) Each cookery session will last around three hours and will be available to community members and those from further afield, as well as double up as an outreach space. During the lessons, Riley hopes to teach students the basics of cooking, seasoning, layering of flavour and different tastes. The food stylist has worked alongside Professor Barry Smith from the University of London who specialises in senses to help create a menu that is suitable for cancer patients and their sensitive and changing tastebuds. "We've looked at umami rich foods and developed recipes like our lentils with mushrooms and gremolata," Riley explains. "We've also worked on strong and balanced dishes such as Life Kitchen's roasted rose harissa salmon with fennel yoghurt salad and our signature pineapple tacos dish." Ryan Riley hosts pop-up Life Kitchen cookery session for cancer patients (Life Kitchen) Macmillan Cancer Support says that while those living with cancer may find that food tastes different during chemotherapy treatment, this is usual temporary. You may no longer enjoy certain foods or find that all foods taste the same, a statement on the subject on the cancer charitys website reads. Food may taste very sweet or salty, or you may have a metallic taste in your mouth. To help deal with changing tastes during treatment, Cancer Research advises patients to choose foods that have strong flavours (garlic, lemon juice, herbs), use plastic utensils if food tastes metallic, and marinate ingredients overnight or for a few hours to add flavour. Since the launch of Life Kitchen, Riley has hosted several pop-up cooking masterclasses at locations across the UK. Ryan Riley launches pop-up Life Kitchen for those living with cancer. (Life Kitchen) He has also received support from several celebrities including chefs Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and Jamie Oliver, as well as television presenters Stephen Fry and Sue Perkins (who is now a patron of the charity). In February, Fry urged his 12.7m Twitter followers to donate money to the fundraising project to launch the cookery school. Interior designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen has also designed an exclusive print for the school; an official pattern printed on Life Kitchen's new tea towels, apron, and other kitchen items. You can apply to attend the cookery school from 4 June here. Online interest in bitcoin has surged to the same level as late 2017, when the cryptocurrency shot up in price to reach record highs. Data from Google shows that searches for bitcoin have risen steadily since the beginning of the year, having declined throughout 2018, and are now at the same level as November 2017. Searches for other major cryptocurrencies, including litecoin, ethereum and ripple, have also risen sharply in recent months. Bitcoin is currently trading at just below $9,000 - around the same price as it was 18 months ago. By December 2017, the price of bitcoin had risen close to $20,000, before spectacularly crashing to nearly $3,000. Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Satoshi Nakamoto creates the first bitcoin block in 2009 On 3 January, 2009, the genesis block of bitcoin appeared. It came less than a year after the pseudonymous creator Satoshi Nakamoto detailed the cryptocurrency in a paper titled 'Bitcoin: A peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System' Reuters Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Bitcoin is used as a currency for the first time On 22 May, 2010, the first ever real-world bitcoin transaction took place. Lazlo Hanyecz bought two pizzas for 10,000 bitcoins the equivalent of $90 million at today's prices Lazlo Hanyecz Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Silk Road opens for business Bitcoin soon gained notoriety for its use on the dark web. The Silk Road marketplace, established in 2011, was the first of hundreds of sites to offer illegal drugs and services in exchange for bitcoin Screenshot Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures The first bitcoin ATM appears On 29 October, 2013, the first ever bitcoin ATM was installed in a coffee shop in Vancouver, Canada. The machine allowed people to exchange bitcoins for cash Reuters Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures The fall of MtGox The world's biggest bitcoin exchange, MtGox, filed for bankruptcy in February 2014 after losing almost 750,000 of its customers bitcoins. At the time, this was around 7 per cent of all bitcoins and the market inevitably crashed Getty Images Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Would the real Satoshi Nakamoto please stand up In 2015, Australian police raided the home of Craig Wright after the entrepreneur claimed he was Satoshi Nakamoto. He later rescinded the claim Getty Images Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Bitcoin's big split On 1 August, 2017, an unresolvable dispute within the bitcoin community saw the network split. The fork of bitcoin's underlying blockchain technology spawned a new cryptocurrency: Bitcoin cash Reuters Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Bitcoin's price sky rockets Towards the end of 2017, the price of bitcoin surged to almost $20,000. This represented a 1,300 per cent increase from its price at the start of the year Reuters Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures What goes up... Bitcoin price crashes spectacularly, losing half of its value in a matter of days Getty Images Bitcoin's volatile history in pictures Bitcoin plunges The cryptocurrency eventually bottoms out below $4,000 in 2019 before slowly rebuilding momentum to outperform more traditional assets Getty Images The month of May has seen interest in bitcoin more than double, according to Google Trends, mirroring the price gains of the cryptocurrency. Chinese search giant Baidu reported a similar uptick in interest, with bitcoin emerging as the hottest emerging keyword on its search engine earlier this month. Analysts have previously noted the correlation between online interest in bitcoin and its price, though it is not clear which of these two factors has a stronger influence on the other. Data from digital marketing firm SemRush displayed how bitcoin search volume closely matched its exchange value against the US dollar. (SemRush) By contrast, search interest in financial markets and stocks have historically risen when markets are crashing. One investor has explained this phenomenon by suggesting stock prices are driven by fear and cryptocurrency prices by greed. "Behind this dichotomy is that the old own stocks and the young own crypto," bitcoin analyst Clem Chambers wrote in 2018. "The old are fearful and the young are fearless and full of hope, a condition which can be summated into a kind of greediness." Search interest in bitcoin has risen significantly in recent months (Google Trends) Countries that are traditionally associated with the cryptocurrency industry, such as the US and UK, have seen search traffic increase, but there have also been some surprises. The biggest increase in bitcoin interest has come from South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana and Slovenia. Bitcoin's turnaround in fortunes saw it pass another milestone in May, with the month marking the first time since November 2018 that its value is higher when compared to one year ago. Every person on the planet who experiences periods will agree that preparing for that monthly visitor can be incredibly frustrating, not to mention expensive. Strategically choosing what clothes to wear just in case you have an accident, spending a fortune on products that you need in order to go about your day somewhat normally, seeking solace from a hot water bottle and a jar of Nutella it can be quite a struggle. According to the Womens Environmental Network, a woman will go through an average of more than 11,000 disposable menstrual products throughout the course of her life, which is an extraordinary amount of waste. While pads and tampons may seem like the most practical sanitary products to invest in, there are a number of alternatives that have recently emerged on the market that are far more affordable, comfortable and environmentally-friendly. Tampons, pads and panty liners amount to more than 200,000 tonnes of waste per year in the UK. In the present social climate, in which many people are beginning to show greater consideration towards the environment, perhaps its time for women to start experimenting with sanitary products that are more sustainable. From period pants to menstrual cups, here are the best alternative menstrual products on the market, for World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2020: Menstrual cups Talk of the menstrual cup has been circulating at an increasing rate over the past few years. The cup is made from medical grade silicone and, once inserted into the vagina, can collect blood for as long as 12 hours. How women around the world manage their periods Show all 26 1 /26 How women around the world manage their periods How women around the world manage their periods From menstrual cup to cloth, menstruation skirt or homemade sanitary pad, WaterAid highlights the many and varied ways in which women around the world manage their periods. Within the communities that WaterAid works, they talked to women about their periods. The result is a revealing snapshot of traditions passed on from mother to daughter, as well as womens own, often innovative, solutions.. WaterAid How women around the world manage their periods Nowana from Zambia, 45, fills a pouch with powdered cow patties that she uses during her period 'I mainly use cow patties to manage my periods, occasionally I use a piece cut from an old blanket. I only use a blanket if am home and not intending to go anywhere. But the cow patties I use at any time whether I am just home or I am travelling to different places. Our parents taught us about the use of cow patties a long time ago before we even heard about pads. I was shown this method by my grandmother and I have been using it since that time. Money is scarce and I cannot afford to buy pads, they are expensive and thats why I use this method. I have children who are of age who also need pads and if you put all of us together, you will agree that its a lot of money that will be required and we cannot afford that.' WaterAid/ Chileshe Chanda How women around the world manage their periods Powdered cow patties and the pouch Nowana would use during menstruation 'I would prefer pads to cow patties if I had a choice. They are easy and already made, they are disposable and dont require a lengthy process like the one I go through when using cow patties.' WaterAid/ Chileshe Chanda How women around the world manage their periods Hilary from London, 27, uses reusable sanitary pads to manage her period 'The environment is a big factor for why I use reusable sanitary pads. Its about reducing waste. I use a combination of different reusable sanitary pads, cotton or bamboo, when I am on my period. A group of women in India makes some of them as a means of sustainable income. It is important to me that they are made of natural materials because I find it most comfortable and eco friendly. Fortunately, I am in the privileged position to think of comfort when it comes to sanitary towels.' WaterAid/ Billy Barraclough How women around the world manage their periods A reusable sanitary pad Hilary would use during menstruation 'I buy these pads mainly from independent stores, most of them are online only, that focus on sustainable products. Most regular stores dont sell them. They are about 9 pounds for one towel, though the price differs depending on size and absorbency. They do stain and since they are made of cotton or bamboo, they usually last about as long as a regular piece of clothing. Some of the ones I have are now 2 years old.' WaterAid/ Billy Barraclough How women around the world manage their periods Lepera Joyce frpm Uganda, 23, showing her goatskin skirt which she uses when she is on her period 'Our village is a pastoralist community; we have many cattle, goats and sheep. After slaughtering them, we keep the skins for use as bedding, clothing and also for managing periods. I have this special skirt made out of goats skin that I wear during my period. The skirt is made in such a way that it has a thick folded bottom ending, which we locally call Abwo the tail of the skirt. When I have my period I wear this skirt, I find a comfortable place to sit, I fold the tail of the skirt Abwo in between my thighs and wait for blood to drain in the tail of the skirt.' WaterAid/ James Kiyimba How women around the world manage their periods The goatskin skirt which Lepera Joyce uses to manage bleeding when she is on her period 'I use this goatskin skirt because its always available; its our traditional sanitary pad.' WaterAid/ James Kiyimba How women around the world manage their periods Steph from Australia, 27, uses an IUD as well as tampons and pads to manage her period 'I have an IUD to help manage my endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, which in turn helps manage my menstrual cycle as well.' WaterAid/ David Freeman How women around the world manage their periods IUD Steph would use during menstruation 'The Mirena means that I don't get a regular period, which is exactly what I was hoping for. Instead I have maybe 2 days of very light bleeding a month, it is quite random at the moment, but I don't find this difficult to deal with. I almost always experience pain before the bleeding starts, so I can predict my needs quite well. For any bleeding I do have, I use pads and tampons as needed. I also have some prescribed pain medication to help ease any symptoms that my cycle may cause.' WaterAid/ David Freeman How women around the world manage their periods Munyes, 44, from Uganda 'During my period I find it easy and very normal to make a hole in the ground and sit on top of it for blood to drain in it. Whilst growing up, the mature women including my mum taught us the different methods of managing our periods, but I preferred this method of making a hole in the ground. No man, not even your husband should see your blood. Even me, I have taught all my daughters how to use this method. I am happy and confident when using this method because I always find a private place where no man will see me. This gives me confidence that I am safe.' WaterAid/ James Kiyimba How women around the world manage their periods Sangita from Nepal, 32, holds up a finished reusable sanitary pad 'Ready made pads are costly and if you do not dispose of them properly it will pollute the environment.' WaterAid/ Mani Karmacharya How women around the world manage their periods A reusable sanitary pad made by Sangita 'When I got to know about the menstrual pad making training, I was curious. I never knew that there are ways to make homemade cotton pads in a well-managed way. The training was two days. The first day was mainly theory where we were told about menstrual hygiene management behaviour, measurement for the pad making, preparing paper cutting drafts. The next day was the practical where I made two cotton pads. Besides pad making, the training was useful because I gained knowledge on menstrual hygiene management. Before this training, I used to be very shy while talking about menstruation. But now I am not shy anymore because menstruation is a natural process,' says Sangita WaterAid/ Mani Karmacharya How women around the world manage their periods Limpo from Zambia, 22, cuts cow patties to size for use during menstruation 'I was born here and I have been living here all my life. My (extended) family lives in Kembi and we have all grown up here. I use cow patties to manage my period. I started using them along time ago just from the time I started having my period. I collect cow patties from the grazing areas for cattle in the plain and they are readily available. Sometimes I collect dry ones and other times I collect semi dry ones depending on the season. If it is wet season, I collect cow patties and stock them somewhere to make sure they are completely dry before use. In a dry and hot season like now, I find them already dry and all I do is pick and use.' WaterAid/ Chileshe Chanda How women around the world manage their periods A cow patty on top of the cloth Limpo would use Limpo, 22, 'I do not put the cow patties directly on my skin, I wrap it in a cloth and place it nicely to capture the flow without staining other clothes. I like this method because cow patties soak up a lot of blood before they are completely soaked. I go about doing all sorts of things without any trouble.' Mongu District, Zambia, August 2018. WaterAid/ Chileshe Chanda WaterAid/ Chileshe Chanda How women around the world manage their periods Claire from Manchester, 40, uses a menstrual cup during her period to reduce waste 'The one thing with the Mooncup is that it is more hassle. It needs boiling to clean it properly. We have a Mooncup pan in which I boil it and sometimes I have to rush into the kitchen to stop someone from boiling an egg in it.' WaterAid/ David Severn How women around the world manage their periods Claire holding a menstrual cup 'I dont find the moon cup as convenient to empty when I am out and about. Id only be able to do that if adequate facilities are available, since you do end up with blood on your hands.' WaterAid/ David Severn How women around the world manage their periods Elizerbeth Chisale from Malawi, 54, teaching her grand-daughter, Mary how to make a sanitary cloth locally known as nyanda 'During our menstruation period, we use nyanda, which is a rag or a piece of cloth cut off from an old chitenge wrap [sarong]. We place it in a piece the underwear. However, some among us cannot afford underwear, so in that case, we secure the nyanda in place by tearing a long and thin piece of the rag and tie it around the waist to hold the fabric tight in place. We also know of women who are very poor that they cant even afford the chitenge wrap, so they cut off a piece of their blanket and use that; it is less sanitary than the chitenge but then, they have no other option. Sometimes, a piece of cloth from our husbands old shirt comes in handy, if a chitenge wrap is not available,' explained Elizabeth WaterAid/ Dennis Lupenga How women around the world manage their periods Tamala from Malawi, 23, also uses a piece of cloth called nyanda during her period 'Cleaning the nyanda can be problematic for us and our families, particularly with issues of hygiene and sanitation.' WaterAid/ Dennis Lupenga How women around the world manage their periods Nyanda, a small piece of cloth used as a sanitary pad in Kapyanga, Kasungu, Malawi To clean a used nyanda, we use our feet first, continuously rubbing it against the ground, so we dont have to touch it with hands. We then wash it in the mbiya [a clay pot used to store water] which means no-one else in the family can use it, because it becomes unsanitary, so we usually need two clay pots or even plastic basins, although the reality is that most families can only afford one. This sanitary constraint also demands that we should have two bathrooms, one for when we are on our periods and one for the rest of the family to prevent infections, but most of us cannot afford two bathrooms, so we have to cope with what is available, said Tamala WaterAid/ Dennis Lupenga How women around the world manage their periods Women from Kapyanga sharing menstrual hygiene experiences, Malawi If married, our husband is not supposed to see any piece of cloth that we are using, so the rags are carefully secured in a small plastic bag which we hang on a top corner close to the ceiling in the bedroom; this we do to ensure that our men do not have any close contact with that bag, even when we are not on our period. Depending on the menstruation flow, we can change the rags between three to five times a day. At night, we need to be extra careful not to stain the beddings, so sometimes we need to go out and change up to every three hours. Travelling long distances when we are on our period is a challenge. The flow during menstruation is intensified as opposed to when you are at home. As we are required to change and clean the nyanda once it is soaked, we have to stop and use a nearby river or shallow well to clean ourselves. This is not easy as most rivers have children playing around the banks. We make sure we have packed at least three to five pieces, said Mercy, 44 WaterAid/ Dennis Lupenga How women around the world manage their periods Doris from Zambia, 19, holds lint cotton she uses during menstruation 'When am on my period, I stop playing soccer or any other sporting activities. I cant run or play games with my friends. I use pieces of chitenge material and cotton wool to manage my periods. [A chitenge is a wrap originally designed for women to cover themselves from the waist downwards.] I get my pieces of cloth from my mothers old and worn out chitenge. As for the cotton wool, I pick it from the cotton fields and stock it up for use when need arises.' WaterAid/ Chileshe Chanda How women around the world manage their periods Saba from Islamabad, Pakistan, 18, cutting a cloth to use during her period 'I use cotton cloth to manage my periods. I get the cloth from home, from the clothes that we used to wear earlier and are now old and rough.' WaterAid/ Sibtain Haider How women around the world manage their periods A piece of cloth to be used as sanitary pad by Saba 'My mom told me to use cloth during my periods. I cannot afford to use sanitary pads.' WaterAid/ Sibtain Haider How women around the world manage their periods Lydia from Tanzania, 26, uses cotton sanitary pads when she is on her period 'I use non-reusable pads from a brand called HC. I find them very comfortable because they are naturally cold and I experience very serious menstrual cramps. When I put them on, the cold helps to take away the pain and I feel comfortable and more relaxed. I just buy them from a shop at a price that I can afford. Even if it gives you pain the fact that you have periods means that you are healthy and you are able to conceive in the future. It is something to be proud of and something that makes me feel feminine.' WaterAid/ Priya Sippy How women around the world manage their periods Burkina Faso Pieces of old or worn loincloth, used by the majority of girls and women to manage their periods, especially those in rural areas or of modest means. 'During my periods, I use pieces of traditional loincloths to protect myself and prevent infections. I tried the cottons [sanitary pads] but they cause slight wounds on your body. So I prefer to use the pieces of loincloths.' Brigitte, 23, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso WaterAid/ Basile Ouedraogo How women around the world manage their periods A sample of sanitary pads, known as cottons, sold in the shops and used by some women or girls, who are wealthier, mainly in urban areas of Burkina Faso 'With cotton, I feel more comfortable. Cotton is good but the only issue is that it can run out and that you cant afford to buy more.' WaterAid/ Basile Ouedraogo One of the most well-known brands that produces the product is Mooncup, which is available to purchase for 21.99 at Boots and independent health food shops. Mooncup states that one of their menstrual cups can hold three times the amount of blood that a regular tampon would usually absorb and doesnt need to be replaced - all you need to do when you empty it into the toilet is rinse or wipe it with a tissue before inserting it again. Period pants Imagine how liberating it would feel to wake up one morning while youre on your period and not have to worry about rummaging in your bathroom cupboard for a tampon. Brands such as WUKA and Pretty Clever Pants have created period pants as a clever alternative; knickers designed to function in the same way as a sanitary pad. WUKA period pants cost 19.99, while Pretty Clever Pants period pants are priced at 9.95. On the WUKA website, its stated that you can wear their eco-friendly pants for up to eight hours and that its medium pants can hold up to two to three tampons worth of blood. Clothing company Dear Kate has taken period pants one step further, as they also offer period yoga pants that you can wear while perfecting your downward dog. Reusable pads If you cant imagine trying anything other than your bog-standard sanitary pad or tampon, then you could at least start buying reusable versions. Aisle, previously known as Lunapads, states on its website that it launched the "first line of modern reusable period products" in 1993. The company sells three sizes of reusable pads on its website, ranging in price from $16 (13) to $22 (17.95). "Our high-performance reusable pads feel like your comfiest pair of cotton undies," the brand states. The reusable pads are machine washable and the mini version can hold up to four tampons' worth of blood. Menstrual disc Not only can a menstrual disc last for up to 12 hours, but it has also been designed to allow its user to enjoy mess-free period sex. Intrigued? We thought so. Flex is a company from California that has created the menstrual disc, which costs 13 for a trial box. According to their instructions, the menstrual disc sits just past the vaginal canal, as opposed to tampons and menstrual cups that are placed within it. While removing the menstrual disc may prove slightly messy, Flex recommends doing so in the shower as it can hold up to six teaspoons of blood, the equivalent of five tampons. A menstrual disc isn't reusable. However, they apparently produce 60 per cent less waste than tampons, which is a plus if you would still rather opt for a disposable form of menstrual product. A memorial for the late Karl Lagerfeld is being held at the Grand Palais in Paris this summer. Titled Karl For Ever, the event has been organised by Chanel, Fendi and the designers eponymous brand to commemorate the life and work of the 85-year-old who passed away on 19 February 2019. The memorial, which has been orchestrated by theatre and opera director Robert Carsen, is going to include video footage of Lagerfeld and his collaborators including Givenchy creative director Clare Waight Keller and model Gigi Hadid on a series of screens. The venue will also host a range of interpretative dances, music and theatre performances based on Lagerfeld's work. Taking place on the evening of 20 June during Paris Mens Fashion Week, the event will be held at the Grand Palais the iconic Paris venue where Chanel has presented its ready-to-wear and haute couture fashion collections since 2005. Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs Show all 13 1 /13 Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs 70s chic at Chloe Before he worked at Chanel, Lagerfeld designed for bohemian-inspired label Chloe. Here, he's pictured alongside a model ahead of showcasing his spring ready-to-wear collection in 1974 for the French fashion house. While there, Lagerfeld became renowned for cementing the label's romantic roots via bold prints and flowing dresses. Rex Features Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs His first collection for Chanel Lagerfeld presented his first collection for Chanel in January 1983, which was widely praised by the press at the time for reinvigorating the brand by bringing hemlines up and adding some pizzazz to the label's accessory line. AFP/Getty Images Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs The power suit Thanks to Chanel, the suit has become one of the most adored silhouettes during the 21st Century, with a focus on bolero jackets, tweeds, and chiffons. Following years experimenting with denim, faux rips, hot pants, and concrete beads on the suits, for his spring/summer 2016 haute couture collection the designer hinted at the brands focus on sustainability, adorning one suit from the collect with finely cut pieces of wood. AFP/Getty Images Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs The interlocking logo It's one of the most recognisable logos in the world, but the famous interlocking "C" logo might not be on Chanel's products today had it not been for Lagerfeld. The designer modernised the label when he took over as artistic director in 1983, proceeding to put the now-iconic logo on a whole host of Chanel garments and accessories. Some believe the double "c" stands for Coco Chanel, in reference to the brand's founder. But others claim it was inspired by a visit by Chanel herself to Chateau de Cremat in Nice, where she's believed to have attended several parties hosted by her friend, socialite Irene Brez. Here, the logo is seen on one of Chanel's most sought-after products: the chain-strap handbag. Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs The pink ruffle gown It was the gown that sparked a thousand "oohs" and "aahs". Lagerfeld ended his spring/summer 2017 show with a thrilling ruffled pink gown as modeled by Lily Rose Depp, whose casting in the show was made all the more significant given that her mother, Vanessa Paradis, was also a model for the brand. Getty Images Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs The Fendi 'baguette' It is probably Fendi's most famous item. The slim, baguette bag was designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi, who is the only family member still working at the Italian label. But under Lagerfeld's reign, it has become a cult fashion item, having been reworked season to season with new designs continuously emerging. Getty Images Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs CC-logo-ed guitar At Chanel's spring/summer 2009 ready-to-wear collection, the designer sent one model down the runway carrying a CC-logo-ed guitar and matching case. AFP/Getty Images Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs The Dying Swan dress Lagerfeld might be better-known for his fashion designs, but he also dabbled in costume and produced this tutu for the English National Ballet in 2009 as part of a special production by the dance company Ballets Russes, for whom Coco Chanel was a benefactor. Getty Images Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs The 'lampshade' dress Keira Knightley struck a distinctive silhouette in this Chanel dress, which she wore to Paris Fashion Week in 2014 to attend the brand's autumn/winter show. The corseted layer dress was from the brand's couture spring 2014 collection. AFP/Getty Images Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs The multi-layered pearl necklace One of Lagerfeld's most contemporary contributions to Chanel was accessories. The multi-layered pearl necklace continues to be a prominent feature of his collections, and have been firm favourites among celebrities, too. In 2006, it even made an appearance in the cult fashion film "The Devil Wears Prada", in which it was worn by lead actor Anne Hathaway to illustrate her character's newfound fashionable taste. Getty Images Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs The Karl Lagerfeld x H&M collaboration In 2004, Lagerfeld was the first designer to collaborate with the Swedish retailer, who has been partnering with major fashion brands ever since. The collection prompted huge excitement among Lagerfeld's fans as they reveled in the fact that they could now purchase his designs as a lower price point. Getty Images Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs The pregnant bride For the Chanel autumn 2014 couture show finale, Largerfeld walked hand-in-hand with a seven-month pregnant model down the catwalk. The model was dressed in a crepe de Chine dress with a gold, brocade cape and a line of buttons along the bodice. The models hair was teased into a quiff. AFP/Getty Images Karl Lagerfeld's most iconic designs Cara Delevigne's space-age outfit for the Met Gala The model has been a Chanel muse for several years and chose to support the brand at the 2017 Met Gala by wearing a dramatic sci-fi-inspired suit. The suit featured a plunging neckline and bold shoulders, contrasting with the star's smooth metallic-painted silver bald head. The model-turned-actor accessorised the look with a dusting of silver body glitter and a wide silver belt at the waist. Under Lagerfeld's creative direction, the space has been transformed into everything from a space station to a supermarket and has even seen a replica of the Eiffel Tower constructed within its walls. The stage and two bars at the memorial will be wrapped in aluminium sheeting of the designers favourite materials, according to Vogue. Last month, Chanel held its latest cruise collection at the venue, transforming it into a Beaux Arts train station, with the models walking along a train platform next to tracks. The show was the first held by Lagerfeld's successor, Virginie Viard. Recommended Karl Lagerfeld successor Virginie Viard debuts first Chanel solo show I wanted something full of life and unexpected, Carsen told WWD of the invitation-only event, which will see some 2,500 guests in attendance. He once famously said, A funeral? Id rather die. Bruno Pavlovsky, Chanels president of fashion, added that the event will be a very powerful moment. The memorial will be about Karl only: who he was, what he loved, what gave him his exceptional energy, Pavlovsky said. I am glad we could join forces with Fendi and Karl Lagerfeld to create together an exceptional event that measures up to him, a tribute that truly celebrates the things he loved and that inspired him. Karl For Ever marks the first public event since the designers death, as he didn't want a public funeral and was instead cremated during a private ceremony in Nanterre, France. His life has however been recognised at the Chanel and Fendi autumn/winter 2019 shows where David Bowies Heroes played during each finale. Chanel also held a minutes silence at the start of show, while Fendi screened a video entitled 54 Years Together depicting Lagerfeld drawing a sketch of himself on his first day at the company. MacKenzie Bezos has announced she intends to donate at least half her fortune to charity through the initiative the Giving Pledge, just a month after finalising her divorce from Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos. On Tuesday, MacKenzie, 49, who is now one of the richest women in the world, wrote a letter explaining her dedication to the cause, which encourages billionaires to give back. We each come by the gifts we have to offer by an infinite series of influences and lucky breaks we can never fully understand, she wrote. In addition to whatever assets life has nurtured in me, I have a disproportionate amount of money to share. My approach to philanthropy will continue to be thoughtful. It will take time and effort and care. But I wont wait. The Giving Pledge was launched by Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates in 2010 and has since been signed by more than 200 individuals and their families, including Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg and Airbnb co-founder Brian Chesky. The world's most generous billionaires Show all 8 1 /8 The world's most generous billionaires The world's most generous billionaires George Soros How much?! $8bn (5.4bn) The Hungarian-born American financier has piled huge funds into causes including the fight against Apartheid and the emergence of democracy behind the iron curtain. His Open Society Foundations promote justice, public health and a free press AFP/Getty Images The world's most generous billionaires Bill and Melinda Gates How much?! $27bn (18bn) Five years ago, the founder of Microsoft and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation announced he would commit 95 per cent of his wealth to do-goodery Getty Images The world's most generous billionaires Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan How much?! $45bn (30bn) The Facebook power couple announced the birth of their daughter, Max, with a pledge to give away, gradually, 99 per cent of their shares in Facebook The world's most generous billionaires Charles Francis Feeney How much?! $6.3bn (4.2bn) Forbes described the Irish-American duty-free magnate in 2012 as the "James Bond of philanthropy. Over the last 30 years he's crisscrossed the globe conducting a clandestine operation to give away a $7.5bn fortune derived from hawking cognac, perfume and cigarettes". UCSF/YouTube The world's most generous billionaires Lord Sainsbury How much?! 1bn+ The great-grandson of the rather successful grocer in 2009 became the first British person to have given away more than 1bn to charity. His family has jettisoned plenty more since and continue to top national giving lists with total donations last year of more than 200m. Getty Images The world's most generous billionaires Li Ka-Shing How much?! $1.4bn (1bn) The second-richest man in Asia launched the Li Ka-shing Foundation and has thrown money at causes including education and healthcare (there's a cancer research centre in his name in Cambridge) and disaster relief as well as arguably less charitable outlets including, er, Spotify and Facebook AFP/Getty Images The world's most generous billionaires JK Rowling How much?! 100m+ The Harry Potter novelist has given away over 100m to charity, including her own Volant Charitable Trust, which targets social deprivation as well as disaster relief and multiple sclerosis research AP The world's most generous billionaires Marcelle Speller How much?! 3m+ Her wealth is pocket change to the world's richest but the British dot-com entrepreneur turned philanthropist has become an unofficial spokesperson for a new kind of British giver. She urges wealthy people in this country, typically more shy than their US counterparts, not only to give but to do so freely, locally and while shouting about it According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, MacKenzie is worth an estimated $36.6bn (28.8bn). Jeff Bezos, the richest person in the world, has an estimated net worth of more $114bn (89.9bn). On Twitter, the Amazon founder praised his ex-wifes decision, writing: MacKenzie is going to be amazing and thoughtful and effective at philanthropy, and Im proud of her. Her letter is so beautiful. Go get em MacKenzie. MacKenzie, an author and one of Amazons first employees, was one of 19 individuals to pledge their commitment to the Giving Pledge on Tuesday. Recommended How Jeff Bezos made his billions Other philanthropists include Paul Sciarra the co-founder of Pinterest and Brian Acton, the co-founder of WhatsApp. Of the new members, Buffett said in a statement: The generosity of this group is a reflection of the inspiration we take from the many millions of people who work quietly and effectively to create a better world for others, often at great personal sacrifice. Jeff Bezos himself is not among the 204 individuals who have signed the pledge, however, the tech billionaire announced in 2018 that he would be donating $2bn (1.58bn) to funding existing non-profits that help homeless families, and creating a network of new, non-profit, tier-one preschools in low income communities. The couple, who have four children together, announced their decision to separate in January. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events As part of the divorce, MacKenzie retained four per cent of Amazons stock, making her the fourth-richest woman in the world. The World Health Organisation (WHO) no longer categorises being transgender as a "mental disorder". On Saturday 25 May, the health agency approved an update to its International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-11), a manual used globally to diagnose diseases. The decision to remove transgender identities from the ICD-11's classification of mental disorders was announced by WHO in June last year. The update has now been approved via a vote held by the World Health Assembly, the WHO's governing body which represents the organisation's 194 member states. The changes to the health manual will come into effect on 1 January 2022. Recommended Munroe Bergdorf blames toxic media for making trans women feel unsafe The ICD-11 update has re-named "gender identity disorders" to be titled "gender incongruence". "Gender incongruence" is now listed under a chapter on "sexual health", as opposed to "mental disorders". The WHO's decision to no longer classify being transgender as a mental disorder has been hailed by several LGBT+ activists. "The WHO's removal of 'gender identity disorder' from its diagnostic manual will have a liberating effect on transgender people worldwide," said Graeme Reid LGBT+ rights director at Human Rights Watch. "Governments should swiftly reform national medical systems and laws that require this now officially outdated diagnosis." Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade Show all 8 1 /8 Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AFP/Getty Images Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AFP/Getty Images Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Micah Grzywnowicz, co-chair of the executive board of LGBT+ advocacy group ILGA-Europe, said the update to ICD-11 "represents a monumental shift in the global health for trans and gender diverse people". "Both the old category names and their corresponding content represent a history laden with struggle, oppression, forced medicalisation, stigma, and marginalisation experienced by trans and gender diverse people in the context of healthcare," Grzywnowicz added. However, a joint statement from 65 intersex groups released by Intersex Human Rights Australia states that the update to the ICD-11 manual may cause "harm to people born with variations of sex characteristics". Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events "The ICD-11 introduces normative language to describe intersex variations as 'disorders of sex development'," the statement reads. The intersex groups are calling on WHO to "reform nomenclature and classifications to ensure that they do not facilitate human rights violations". Conservationists have accused the World Health Organisation (WHO) of rubber-stamping the extinction of endangered species by adopting hundreds of traditional Chinese remedies in its international guidelines. Many such remedies make use of animal parts and this has long put pressure on endangered species such as jaguars, pangolins and rhinos. On Saturday the WHOs World Health Assembly recognised traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) diagnoses for 400 conditions in its influential International Classification of Disease list. Campaigners including big cat conservation group Panthera, the Environmental Investigations Agency and Wildlife Conservation Trust have warned that recognition from a body as influential as the WHO could result in a rapid depletion of species with healthy populations. But the WHO insisted it opposed the use of animal parts and supported international protections for endangered species. Conservation success for the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique Show all 8 1 /8 Conservation success for the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique Conservation success for the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique Tourists observe elephants Left devastated by Mozambique's civil war, Gorongosa National Park is now thriving Bob Poole / Gorongosa National Park Conservation success for the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique Waterbuck graze in the open floodplains A restoration project with government backing has battled poachers who were depleting the already slim animal populations AFP/Getty Conservation success for the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique Hippos take a dip In 2008, there were around 10,000 large animals in Gorongosa; today there are over 100,000 J Da Silva / Gorongosa National Park Conservation success for the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique Wild dogs in Gorongosa National Park Tourism is an important part of the restoration project Gorongosa National Park Conservation success for the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique Waterbuck on the savannah Tourists create jobs for locals, expanding the conservation workforce, and safaris in Gorongosa are used to educate visitors about the project Getty Conservation success for the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique A lioness The civil war killed 95% of Gorongosa's lion population, today there are 104 lions who are monitored by conservationists Ticky Rosa / Gorongosa National Park Conservation success for the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique Sunset over the Gorongosa National Park Getty Conservation success for the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique Tourists in Gorongosa National Park Bob Poole / Gorongosa National Park John Goodrich, chief scientist and director of Pantheras tiger programme, said any recognition would be seen globally as a stamp of approval for all types of TCM, including the use of wild animal parts. Failure to specifically condemn the use of traditional Chinese medicine utilising wild animal parts is egregiously negligent and irresponsible, he added. Taken with Chinas recent proliferation of traditional Chinese medicine around the globe, WHOs decision could contribute to the end of many species on the brink of extinction, like the tiger. The WHO decision comes a month after the largest ever shipment of illegally smuggled pangolin scales was seized in Singapore en route to Vietnam, and a 30-tonne haul of pangolin parts was discovered in Malaysia. While leading TCM bodies have phased out the use of wild animal parts, conservationists say that even highly regulated, legal breeding programmes provide cover for the illegal trafficking of endangered species. China recently announced it would drop a decades-long ban on the trade of tiger bone and rhino horn. The change was postponed after international outcry with leading conservation groups warning its effects would be devastating globally. Wildlife Conservation Trust president Anish Andheria said the WHO decision ignored the compelling data that showed the wildlife trade also increased deaths among rangers and other frontline conservation staff and forest-dwelling communities. A WHO spokesperson added: Inclusion in the ICD does not mean we recommend or condone the use of animal parts such as rhinoceros horns. WHO recommends the enforcement of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, which protects rhinos, tigers and other species. Measles outbreaks at three London schools have seen headteachers across the north and west of the capital put on high alert by health authorities. Public Health England (PHE) has written to educators in the boroughs of Hammersmith and Fulham, Kensington and Chelsea and the City of Westminster warning them to be vigilant for the highly contagious infection. The agency would usually contact affected parents and headteachers directly but the risk of unvaccinated family members attending other schools triggered the wider alert, PHE said. Measles has so far been identified in pupils at Fulham Boys School, Chelsea Academy and St Marylebone Church of England School. Any unvaccinated siblings may also be at risk. In a letter sent to head teachers, PHE consultant in health protection Dr Janice Lo said there has been a significant increase in measles cases amongst north west London residents since April. 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 Some of these children may have siblings attending other schools in nearby boroughs, and therefore, we would like to inform you of the affected schools and ask you to stay vigilant for any new cases reported, she added. As measles is a highly infectious disease and can lead to serious complications, we strongly encourage you to take this opportunity to ensure your staff and parents are aware of the importance of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, and encourage them and the children to be vaccinated. A spokesperson for Fulham Boys School told The Independent there had been 14 confirmed cases at the school, but parents had been notified immediately and vaccinations were offered to all pupils. It comes after warnings that half a million UK children missed out on the childhood measles vaccine in the past eight years. PHE warned last week that hundreds of cases of measles had already been diagnosed England in the first three months of 2019. Outbreaks have so far been contained to groups with low vaccination rates, such as the orthodox Jewish community, or those with links to other countries with outbreaks, including several eastern European states. But PHE said there were signs it was spreading into the wider population. Measles in the UK reached a decade high last year, and health secretary Matt Hancock has refused to rule out considering compulsory school vaccination schemes in future. Globally cases rose 300 per cent around the world, according to World Health Organisation data. The WHO is one of several organisations to blame the rise, in part, on the coordinated efforts of anti-vaxx groups spreading damaging myths about the MMR jabs harms on social media. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Dr Yimmy Chow, consultant at PHEs London health protection team, said: Protecting your children with two doses of the MMR vaccine is the best way to ensure they are not at risk of catching measles, mumps or rubella and preventing their spread to others who cannot be immunised such as newborn babies, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems who are most vulnerable to infection. The three affected schools in the London outbreak, which are all Church of England schools, could not immediately be reached for comment. 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 Prospective homeowners need six months and 24 days to purchase a property on average, according to research. Experts studied the average time it takes to buy a home, considering all aspects of a move, from viewing houses online to getting the keys and moving in. They discovered the lengthiest part of the process was exchanging contracts, which took an average of five months and 10 days after an offer was made. But in some cases, it took up to 25 months. When starting the home-buying process, potential purchasers spent about 20 hours looking at 16 homes online. UK Housing Crisis: in pictures Show all 8 1 /8 UK Housing Crisis: in pictures UK Housing Crisis: in pictures Members of generation rent, as the younger generation is often known, are finding it far more difficult to get on the housing market than previous generations PA UK Housing Crisis: in pictures Then chancellor George Osborne visits a Help to Buy housing development in Lewisham in 2014. Osborne had announced the Help to Buy scheme in the 2013 budget as a means of helping first-time buyers on to the housing market PA Archive/PA Images UK Housing Crisis: in pictures In February 2017, then communities and local government secretary Sajid Javid issued a government white paper on housing. Introducing it in the Commons, he stated our housing market is broken and that the idea of owning or renting a safe, secure place of your own is, for many, a distant dream PA UK Housing Crisis: in pictures Residents of Fitzroy Road in Primrose Hill have demonstrated how urban areas might be built up without using extra land. 12 homeowners along the street all agreed to extend their house upwards by 1 floor. The government recently held a consultation on the revised National Planning Policy Framework, which, if approved, will support building above homes, shops and offices Google Earth UK Housing Crisis: in pictures Social Bite, a charity in Scotland, is creating a small housing community for the homeless. Up to 20 people will be housed for 12-18 months, with the charitys focus being on transitioning the residents into permanent housing and employment AFP/Getty UK Housing Crisis: in pictures A homeless man was found dead yards from Parliament in February. His death was taken by many, including Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, to be symbolic of the governments poor record on housing. PA UK Housing Crisis: in pictures Emergency homeless shelters in London had to be opened numerous times throughout the past winter to house those unable to find a room in an ordinary shelter or hostel Getty UK Housing Crisis: in pictures Carillion, the UKs second largest construction company, entered liquidation early this year. It held numerous government construction and maintenance contracts, for many of which the future is still uncertain AFP/Getty About four days was then spent waiting for a viewing on a potential purchase, with buyers taking a further four-and-a-half days to put in an offer. It also emerged that the average homebuyer viewed their future home three times before making an offer, taking three friends or family members with them to help make the decision. Once the purchase had been agreed, a further 24 days were needed to secure a mortgage offer and three days to get a solicitor on board. Recommended Millions will still be paying off mortgage after they retire After contracts were exchanged, keys were finally delivered after nine days. James Morris-Manuel, vice president of EMEA Matterport, which creates virtual home tours and commissioned the study, said: Buying a home can be one of the most exciting and most frustrating experiences of all. While the idea of moving somewhere new is thrilling, the reality can be very different, especially when solicitors appear to be dragging their feet, chains break down and viewings take longer than expected to arrange. Of the 2,000 homeowners polled, one-quarter had made offers on a home which were then rejected, making the process even longer especially for the 12 per cent who put in unsuccessful bids on three or more properties. It also emerged that London was the area in which it takes the longest to buy a house at an average of eight months, compared to just over five months in Scotland and the North East. But while 28 per cent of respondents had no expectations of how long every step would take, almost one-third said when they did buy a house, it took longer than they thought it would. Typically, the expectation was that the whole process would take just under four months, with more than two in 10 believing it would be done and dusted in less than two months. Four in 10 of those polled via OnePoll even took more than seven months to decide on a new house. Liaising with solicitors and selling the current property also made the list of things that were difficult about buying a new home. But due to timings, 14 per cent of buyers admitted they had to compromise on their ideal home when choosing a property. Mr Morris-Manuel added: House hunting can be tough and time-consuming, especially for those who are juggling working full time, families, and may not necessarily be living in the area in which they want to buy. SWNS More prisoners are to be temporarily released for work, education or to see loved ones after the government relaxed rules. The Ministry of Justice aims to drive down reoffending, which is estimated to cost society 15m a year, by improving convicts prospects of finding employment and a stable home life. Release on temporary licence (ROTL) was previously restricted to offenders in certain types of prisons or nearing the end of their sentences, but will now be allowed more widely. Governors will be able to allow all inmates in open prisons and womens jails out, and offenders will be eligible for paid work immediately after passing a tough risk assessment. A restriction on ROTL in the first three months after transferring to open conditions will be lifted, while overnight release from open prisons to re-establish family links can now be considered at an earlier stage. UK prison conditions: in pictures Show all 8 1 /8 UK prison conditions: in pictures UK prison conditions: in pictures A cell covered in graffiti at HMP Liverpool. PA UK prison conditions: in pictures HMP Liverpool has some of the worst conditions inspectors have seen. HM Inspectorate of Prisons/PA UK prison conditions: in pictures A broken window in a cell at HMP Liverpool HM Inspectorate of Prisons/PA Wire UK prison conditions: in pictures A shower unit with protruding electric cable at HMP Liverpool HM Inspectorate of Prisons/PA UK prison conditions: in pictures Litter at HMP Liverpool HM Inspectorate of Prisons/PA Wire UK prison conditions: in pictures A wall damaged by damp at HMP Liverpool HM Inspectorate of Prisons/PA UK prison conditions: in pictures A pool table at HMP Liverpool HM Inspectorate of Prisons/PA UK prison conditions: in pictures A sign for HMP Liverpool, where drones are seized at a rate of more than one a week. The prisons watchdog flagged up the impact of the remote-controlled flying devices at HMP Liverpool. PA The application process for the scheme is also being made more efficient, officials say. The government said released prisoners are nine per cent less likely to commit further crimes if they are employed, and getting them into work while still serving sentences boosts prospects on release. ROTL numbers fell after a 2013 review led to rules on the scheme being tightened up. At the time, the Ministry of Justice cited several cases where prisoners had committed crimes - including the murder of Graham Buck by a convicted killer on day release. His wife, Karen Buck, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme she was concerned that the "multitude of errors" that caused her husband's death could be repeated. "I'm not convinced that with the prison service in its current state and with the problems in the probation service, that the supervision that is necessary and the preparation necessary for safe release are actually going to be in place," she added. Statistics show there were 366,868 incidences of ROTL in England and Wales last year, involving 7,724 people. The 2018 figures were up year-on-year but remained below those for 2013, when there were more than half a million incidences involving over 11,000 individuals. Plans to expand the use of workplace ROTL were set out in the Ministry of Justices wider education and employment strategy last year. In a round-up of progress 12 months on, the department said 230 additional businesses have joined its flagship offender work-placement scheme. They include Pret a Manger and the pub chain Greene King, which said the initiative was securing a pipeline of talent and plugging a nationwide shortage of kitchen staff in the British hospitality industry. David Gauke describes shocking videos emerging from UK prisons David Gauke, the justice secretary, said 99 per cent of all releases occur "without any breach whatsoever" and serious offences were very rare. "We believe we can put in place a thorough risk assessment," he added. Broadening access to training and work opportunities is a vital part of our strategy to steer offenders away from a life of crime and ultimately keep the public safe. Many organisations are recognising the value of giving offenders a second chance, and we have carefully listened to their feedback before making these changes. Recommended Over 200 criminals under privatised probation charged with murder I urge more businesses to join this movement and help ex-offenders turn their backs on crime for good. The Ministry of Justice has also been battling rising violence and drug use in prisons, which has been partly blamed on budget cuts that hit officer numbers. It said violent incidents had fallen by 11 per cent in the last three months of 2018, compared to the previous quarter. As the prisons minister, Rory Stewart vowed to resign if violence did not drop in targeted jails but was made international development secretary in the cabinet reshuffle that followed the sacking of Gavin Williamson. Peter Dawson, director of the Prison Reform Trust, said ROTL had proven benefits in terms of preparing prisoners for a crime free life. There is much further to goprisoners are serving longer sentences than ever before, and these changes will mainly benefit only the minority who have managed to get to an open prison towards the very end of their time inside, he added. The Revolving Doors Agency, which works in rehabilitation, said inmates were losing jobs because of short sentences, adding:We mustnt forget that for the third of short term prisoners released with nowhere to live, employment will remain a huge challenge. Mr Gauke has been calling for short prison sentences to be scrapped in a bid to drive down reoffending and undone much of Chris Graylings disastrous 2014 reforms. He is renationalising the monitoring of released criminals, following years of calls to scrap failing private companies. But a recent inspection suggested the governments changes to licence conditions would continue to drive up the prison population and trap offenders in a cycle of crime. A social media campaign to make Boris Johnson the next prime minister is being run by the owner of the notorious political website Guido Fawkes, it has been revealed. A website called Boris2020.org is urging members of the public to get Boris On The Ballot, claiming there is a plot by pro-EU Conservative MPs to thwart him. The campaign provoked suspicion because it is similar to the online advertising, earlier this year, that pressured MPs to vote against Theresa Mays doomed deal. That first campaign was linked to employees of Sir Lynton Crosby the Australian strategist behind David Camerons 2015 election victory, who is now believed to be advising Mr Johnson. Now Paul Staines, the owner of Guido Fawkes, has admitted he is behind the Boris2020.org campaign, but insisted it is not formally connected to the former ministers bid for power. I haven't spoken to anyone, I am doing it off my own bat, he told BuzzFeed, adding: It's no secret that I am a Boris backer. 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 The website, which appeared this week, says: Remain MPs are plotting to keep Boris off your ballot. Use this form to tell your MP now: members must not be denied a real choice. They are urged to click a box marked I back Boris. The small print of the Boris2020 website privacy policy revealed the campaigns data controller is a company called CampaignAction Limited. BuzzFeed discovered, from a search of the Information Commissioners Office register that the registered companys data protection officer is Mr Staines, the founder and owner of Guido Fawkes. A separate search of registration information relating to the Boris2020.org domain revealed that the website was created in April 2012 by Paul Staines of MessageSpace Limited, BuzzFeed reported. Guido Fawkes is among the most influential websites in British politics and is currently running a spreadsheet showing which Tory MPs are backing each of the candidates in the leadership race. Nicky Morgan, the former education secretary, has protested about the campaign on Twitter, saying: Ways not to endear yourself to colleagues #1 get someone to encourage standard emails are sent on your behalf to ensure youre on the ballot paper. The tweet added: Please @BorisJohnson Ive got enough emails about real local & national issues of concern already! The former foreign secretary is the strong favourite to grab the leadership, with a hard-Brexit pitch to the Tories Eurosceptic membership which will make the final choice. On Friday, he vowed to crash the UK out of the EU without a deal if necessary at the end of October. We will leave the EU on October 31, deal or no deal, Mr Johnson said: The way to get a good deal is to prepare for a no deal. Seeing Britains botched attempt to leave the European Union has vaccinated other EU countries against Euroscepticism, the president of the European Council has said. Speaking 48 hours after EU election results came in Donald Tusk said Brexit had ensured the failure of anti-EU parties in last weeks contest. I have no doubt that one of the reasons why people on the continent voted for a pro-European majority is also Brexit, Mr Tusk told reporters at a press conference. As Europeans see what Brexit means in practice, they also draw conclusions. Brexit has been a vaccine against anti-EU propaganda and fake news. Mr Tusk, who was speaking after an EU summit in Brussels attended by the blocs 28 presidents and prime ministers, added that many eurosceptic parties had abandoned anti-EU slogans presented themselves reformers a change he said was a positive development. The claim which appears to be supported by opinion polls and election results will enrage Brexiteers, who before the EU referendum had predicted a domino effect of other EU member states leaving a disintegrating union after they saw how successful Britains exit had been. But anti-EU, populist, and far-right parties underperformed despite high expectations in EU elections last week, after voter turnout on the continent rose to the highest level in decades over 50 per cent. EU leaders took a break from discussing Brexit at the summit, which was dedicated to the process of choosing the next European Commission president. Mr Tusk said after the meeting that no one even tried to discuss Brexit today. 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 Asked about his request that the UK should not waste the time it had been given as part of Marchs extension to the Article 50 period, the European Council president said: I think that my appeal is still valid. I have nothing to add to my words, because I have no new information. Nothing promising, I should say. Our role today is to wait for some new solutions. I want to be as delicate as possible. Im not in the mood to find a new formulation or a new appeal to my British colleagues. Polls across the EU show support for leaving the bloc down to record low levels in most member states since Brexit. Predictions that Eurosceptics and populists would take a third of seats in the European parliament in last weeks elections also ended up being far off the mark. John Bercow has warned Tory leadership contenders threatening to crash out of the EU without an agreement in October that the Commons is likely to block it. The Speaker dismissed expert opinion that MPs had lost their opportunity to stop a no-deal Brexit, insisting: The idea the House won't have its say is for the birds. Boris Johnson has insisted the UK will leave on 31 October deal or no deal with rival contenders quick to adopt the favourites hardline stance. But, speaking in America, Mr Bercow said: The idea that parliament is going to be evacuated from the centre stage of debate on Brexit is unimaginable. He agreed leaving without a deal was the default position, but added: There is a difference between a legal default position and what the interplay of different political forces in parliament will facilitate. Recommended Campbell expelled by Labour after voting Lib Dem in Brexit protest The comments come after Dominic Raab, a leading Brexiteer candidate, predicted that MPs would fail to prevent him carrying out a Halloween night crash-out, if he wins the race to No 10. 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 They will increase the expectation the Mr Bercow will find a way for MPs to stage a vote perhaps on an emergency debate, as he has hinted in the past allowing a fresh law to block no-deal to be passed. Some pro-EU Tories including Philip Hammond, the chancellor have floated toppling their own government by supporting a no-confidence vote, as another mechanism. Mr Bercow also said he had nothing to add to or subtract from his past attack on Donald Trump, when he banned him from speaking to parliament. The ban is widely seen as having prevented the US president from making an address on his State Visit next week with both No 10 and Washington keen to avoid further controversy. Addressing an event in Washington, the Speaker admitted he made an error when he invited the Chinese president, Xi Jinping a leader condemned for human rights abuses to address parliament. You make mistakes. Looking back, do I think theres a powerful argument that says perhaps the Chinese president should not have been invited? Was it necessarily the right decision? No, he said. And he risked stepping into the leadership contest by praising both Michael Gove and Jeremy Hunt as extremely capable ministers with the intellectual self-confidence as well as the communication skill" to thrive in the chamber as well as hailing their pursuit of consensus. The Commons was able to pass a law to block no-deal when Theresa May threatened a no-deal, by passing a motion when her Brexit deal was put before MPs. With the EU refusing to negotiate new terms with the incoming prime minister, some had feared the Commons will be shut out of the process in the countdown to Halloween. Contenders to replace Theresa May as prime minister have been dealt a double blow to their hopes of persuading voters that they can deliver a better Brexit. European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker flatly rejected any renegotiation of the withdrawal agreement struck with Ms May last November. And House of Commons speaker John Bercow set up a constitutional clash with potential future prime ministers like Boris Johnson by insisting that MPs will have an opportunity to block a no-deal Brexit. Leadership front-runners including Mr Johnson and Dominic Raab have made clear that they want to renegotiate Ms Mays deal, but are ready to leave without agreement on the Brexit deadline of 31 October if necessary. Mr Johnson has vowed that the UK will leave on Halloween deal or no deal. And Mr Raab has said that there is still time to change the controversial backstop arrangements for the Irish border and negotiate a legally binding route for the UK to leave unilaterally. Meanwhile, foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt said he was ready to form a new negotiation team taking in figures like the DUPs Arlene Foster and European Research Group chair Jacob Rees-Mogg to persuade Brussels that an amended deal could get through parliament. But an exasperated Mr Juncker gave short shrift to such plans, telling reporters at a Brussels summit: I was crystal clear. There will be no renegotiation. Theresa May warns against no-deal Brexit The agreement between the EU and Ms May to delay Brexit until Halloween included a commitment not to seek a renegotiation of the deal. And there is no appetite for further talks from a team of EU officials whose term in office comes to an end in November, when chief negotiator Michel Barnier is slated as a potential replacement for Mr Juncker as commission president. Meanwhile, Mr Bercow said that any suggestion a no-deal Brexit could be engineered by simply running down the clock to the end of October was for the birds. Liberal Democrats have warned that a no-deal Brexiteer in Downing Street could even suspend Commons sittings for the vital period this autumn to prevent MPs from finding a way to stop the UK crashing out. And the Institute for Government has warned that, with the death of Ms Mays Withdrawal Agreement Bill which Downing Street has now accepted will not be tabled in parliament MPs may have no procedural path to stand in the way of no deal. But the speaker told a US think tank: The idea that parliament is going to be evacuated from the centre stage of debate on Brexit is unimaginable. He agreed leaving without a deal was the default position, but added: There is a difference between a legal default position and what the interplay of different political forces in parliament will facilitate. As the crowded field of would-be leaders swelled to 10 with the announcement by housing minister Kit Malthouse that he will run, Ms May warned her eventual successor not to leave the EU without a deal. 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 Arriving at the Brussels summit, the prime minister said she was not going to comment on the views of individual candidates, but added: I continue to have the view that its best for the UK to leave with a deal. Mr Bercow, who is suspected by Brexiteers of favouring a Final Say referendum, risked stepping into the leadership contest by praising both Mr Hunt and environment secretary Michael Gove as extremely capable ministers with intellectual self-confidence (and) communication skill, as well as hailing their pursuit of consensus. Mr Hunt warned that the Conservatives were facing destruction as a party if a new leader forces a general election before delivering Brexit. His comment was widely seen as a warning against the election of a no-deal Brexiteer, who could be immediately ousted in a no-confidence vote backed by Remain-supporting Tories, triggering a general election. Mr Hunt told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: We must not go back to the electorate asking for their mandate until weve delivered what we promised we would do last time, which is to deliver Brexit. It would be absolutely catastrophic for us as a party. But rival candidate Esther McVey, who favours no deal, retorted: Political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU and not leaving on 31 October. The BBC announced it will host a live TV hustings in the middle of June, inviting all contenders still in the race to take part. Mr Raab and health secretary Matt Hancock have already challenged their rivals to a televised debate, amid speculation that Mr Johnson may shy away from the showdown. Mr Hancock said: Im delighted that broadcasters have agreed to hold TV debates this is a contest that affects the whole country, so we should engage the whole country in this process. The chair of the National Conservative Convention, Andrew Sharpe, has invited all candidates to a hustings on 15 June, when the group had been planning an emergency meeting to hold a vote of no-confidence in Ms May. Conservative leadership candidate Jeremy Hunt has warned the party will be committing political suicide if it pursues a no-deal Brexit in the wake of a calamitous showing at the European elections. Writing in The Daily Telegraph, the foreign secretary also claimed the Conservatives would be annihilated and face extinction if a general election were called before Brexit is delivered. Mr Hunt, who voted remain, trails Brexiteers Boris Johnson, Dominic Raab and Michael Gove in the leadership race betting odds, but has so far received public backing from 28 MPs more than any of his rivals. Any candidate for prime minister whose strategy leads to a general election is offering a prospectus for disaster, Mr Hunt wrote. He claimed the most likely outcome of an election would be a damaged Labour sneaking through the middle in coalition with the SNP, leaving a Marxist in Downing street in what would amount to a threat to the Union. Who is standing to be the next prime minister? Show all 3 1 /3 Who is standing to be the next prime minister? Who is standing to be the next prime minister? Boris Johnson - 157 votes PA Who is standing to be the next prime minister? Michael Gove - 61 votes Getty Who is standing to be the next prime minister? Jeremy Hunt - 59 votes PA Mr Hunt appealed to colleagues to unite to fight off the forces of Farage and deliver Brexit, which he pledged to do if leader by re-entering negotiations with the European Union (EU). On BBC Radio 4's Today Programme on Tuesday morning, Mr Hunt said he would involve Scotland and Wales, as well as the DUP and the European Research Group in EU talks, but not Labour, who he claimed had not acted in "good faith" over its approach to Brexit. In a rebuke to Tory rivals including Andrea Leadsom and Esther McVey, who have vowed to leave the EU on 31 October, Mr Hunt said: Any prime minister who promised to leave the EU by a specific date - without the time to renegotiate and pass a new deal - would, in effect, be committing to a general election the moment parliament tried to stop it. And trying to deliver no deal through a general election is not a solution, it is political suicide. That would delight Nigel Farage and probably put Jeremy Corbyn in No10 by Christmas. Ms McVey, who has promised to deliver a no-deal Brexit, was quick to respond on Monday evening to Mr Hunt, claiming political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU. Ben Bradley, Conservative MP for Mansfield, said Mr Hunts article showed a lack of commitment to delivering Brexit. This is exactly why we need a leader who believes in #Brexit and fought for it, he tweeted. An MEP of Asian origin was heckled with shouts of Go home by Brexit Party supporters during her acceptance speech following her re-election to the European Parliament. British Sikh Neena Gills speech was loudly interrupted by angry supporters of Nigel Farages eurosceptic party during the declaration of results for the West Midlands in Birmingham on Sunday night. West Midlands Labour said the heckles exposed an ugly truth about the Brexit Party. And Ms Gill sent out a message on social media characterising the incident as racism. But Brexit Party supporters said they were enraged by Ms Gill comparing them to European fascist movements of the past. Heckling and booing broke out as the Labour MEP said: European history tells us that every fascist regime needs people to demonise in order to thrive. Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe denounced her comment as absolute rubbish, saying: The people I'm standing alongside represent a broad cross-section of the UK population. I've seen no evidence of any sign of fascism. In footage of the incident, a number of people sporting Brexit Party rosettes can be seen shouting How dare you?, Is it OK to call us fascists? and Are half a million people fascists? Shouts of Go home and F*** off can be heard, though it is not clear from the film who they came from. A message on the West Midlands Labour Twitter feed said: Angry Brexit Party supporters at Birmingham count telling first British-Asian Sikh woman MEP Neena Gill to go home exposes an ugly truth. And Labours Warwick and Leamington MP Matt Western said: This should disturb any decent, tolerant person in our community and our country. Brexit Party candidate Vishal Khatri who is himself of Asian heritage and was present at the declaration - confirmed that the shout of Go home came from their group, but denied it was racist. I think they meant Go home to bed, he told The Independent. She was calling us racists and fascists, which made people angry. You cant go around calling people racists. The Brexit Party came out on top in the European elections in the West Midlands, taking more than 500,000 votes (38%) and three MEPs, though Mr Khatri was not successful. Labour came in second with around 228,000 votes (17%), losing one of its two seats. Theresa May has abandoned her final attempt to get her Brexit deal through parliament in her last weeks in office. Downing Street suggested the prime minister will no longer bring forward the legislation that would have enshrined her deal in law, effectively confirming that she has ditched plans to hold a vote on the bill at the start of June in a last-ditch bid to secure MPs' backing. Ms May unveiled the contents of the Withdrawal Agreement Bill last week, triggering a Tory backlash so strong that the prime minister was forced to announce that she will resign as Conservative leader on 7 June. The full bill was also released to cabinet ministers, many of whom swiftly told Ms May they would be unable to support it. Last Thursday, government whip Mark Spencer told the Commons that Ms May still hoped to table the bill in early June. Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation Show all 13 1 /13 Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation Reuters Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation REUTERS Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation PA Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation REUTERS Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation Prime Minister Theresa May makes a statement outside at 10 Downing Street in London, where she announced she is standing down as Tory party leader on Friday June 7. PA Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation REUTERS Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation REUTERS Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation REUTERS Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation AFP/Getty Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation REUTERS Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation REUTERS Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation AP Theresa May gets emotional during her resignation AFP/Getty Images But asked whether this was still the case following Ms May's resignation, the prime minister's official spokesman said: "I think we now have to reflect on the fact that we're in a different position." Barring a highly unexpected change of opinion among MPs, it is now expected that the current version of the bill will never be published. The next prime minister is likely to instead seek to redraft the document and amend the most contentious sections, relating to a customs union and a second referendum, which were widely condemned by Tory MPs. Stephen Barclay, the Brexit secretary, had suggested that the less controversial parts of Ms May's deal could be voted on before she leaves office, but it is understood that No10 has no plans to divide up the bill in this way. Instead, Ms May is likely to use her last remaining weeks in office to try to pass legislation on her key domestic issues. Her spokesman said: "If you look back to the prime minister's speech on Friday, there are domestic issues which she clearly feels very passionately about. I think you can expect announcements on some of these areas in the coming weeks." Bringing forward the Withdrawal Agreement Bill was designed to be a last attempt to convince MPs to approve Ms May's Brexit deal. The bill contained a number of compromises, including a pledge to allow the House of Commons to decide whether the UK should enter into a temporary customs union with the EU after Brexit. It would also have given MPs a vote on whether a referendum should be held if the exit deal was approved by parliament. But the concessions triggered fury from Conservative MPs, prompting many who had previously supported the deal to announce that they would no longer do so. Theresa May's full speech as she announces her resignation Ms May announced on Friday that she will step down as Conservative leader on 7 June. She will continue as prime minister until a successor is elected. Speaking on the steps of Downing Street, she said: "I negotiated the terms of our exit and a new relationship with our closest neighbours that protects jobs, our security and our union. Britains largest Muslim organisation has called for a formal investigation into Islamophobia in the Conservative Party. The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) sent more than 20 pages of evidence to the Equality and Human Rights Commission in the wake of the governments refusal to adopt a proposed definition on Islamophobia. Its complaint accused the Tories of ignoring calls for an independent inquiry on anti-Muslim hatred and failing to take action against Islamophobes in its ranks. Boris Johnson, who could be the next prime minister, and MPs including Bob Blackman, Zac Goldsmith, Michael Fabricant and Philip Hollobone were named in the dossier. Harun Rashid Khan, secretary general of the MCB, said: The concerns of Muslims at large about Islamophobia within the Conservative Party have fallen on deaf ears. Brexit racism and the fightback Show all 9 1 /9 Brexit racism and the fightback Brexit racism and the fightback Demonstrators protest against an increase in post-ref racism at London's March for Europe in July 2016 PA Brexit racism and the fightback These cards were found near a school in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, the day after the EU referendum Twitter/@howgilb Brexit racism and the fightback Getty Brexit racism and the fightback Romford, Essex, June 25 @diamondgeezer Brexit racism and the fightback A worker at this Romanian food shop was asleep upstairs at the time of this arson attack in Norwich on July 8, but escaped unharmed. Hundreds later participated in a love bombing rally outside the shop to express their opposition to racism and their support of the shop owners. JustGiving/Helen Linehan Brexit racism and the fightback This neo-Nazi sticker was spotted in Glasgow on June 26 Courtesy of Eoin Palmer Brexit racism and the fightback But after news emerged of neo-Nazi stickers appearing in Glasgow, some in the city struck back with slogans of their own. Courtesy of Eoin Palmer Brexit racism and the fightback Getty Brexit racism and the fightback More signs began to appear in some parts of the UK, created by people who wanted to show their opposition to post-referendum racism Courtesy of Bernadette Russell We have taken this step after an unprecedented number of cases have been brought to our attention, suggesting a culture within the Conservative Party where Islamophobia is not only widespread, but institutional. We now request the EHRC to look at all the evidence and investigate this matter with great urgency. The complaint includes allegations of Islamophobia among MPs, an atmosphere of hostility against Muslim Conservatives, failed complaints processes and an overall denial that Islamophobia is a major issue for the party. Miqdaad Versi, of the MCB, questioned whether any of the contenders in the Tory leadership race would prioritise dealing with the sheer scale of Islamophobia that has consumed the Conservative Party. Mr Johnson was criticised over remarks comparing veiled Muslim women to letter boxes and bank robbers, but he was cleared of breaching the Conservative Partys code of conduct. An independent panel found that the former foreign secretary was respectful and tolerant in his newspaper column. The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), requested more information from the Conservatives on Islamophobia earlier this month. The watchdog, which enforces equality laws, has the power to take action in court. We have received complaints regarding the Conservative Party and are considering them in line with our usual processes, an EHRC spokesperson said. As part of our standard process, we have written to the Conservative Party to ask for information in order to help assess the complaints. Labour MP Afzal Khan raises Islamophobia complaints within Tory party and asks when it will adopt the internationally recognised definition of anti-Muslim hate The call for an Islamophobia probe came as the EHRC announced a formal investigation over antisemitism in Labour on Tuesday. It will determine whether the party has unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish. The MCB said the timing of its complaint was coincidental and pointed out that it alerted media outlets, including The Independent, before the EHRCs announcement on Labour. The government was accused of disregarding the safety and security of British Muslims after rejecting a definition of Islamophobia put forward following a parliamentary inquiry. Communities secretary James Brokenshire pledged to arrive swiftly at a collective position earlier this month, after senior police officers raised concern about the potential impact on counterterror powers. Labour MP Wes Streeting, co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on British Muslims, said the government had no more credibility to define Islamophobia than the Labour Party had to redefine antisemitism. I have watched, with some amazement and even greater despair, the Conservative Party making exactly the same mistakes over Islamophobia as my party has with antisemitism, he told the House of Commons. The decision came days before research found that more than 100 people claiming to be Conservative Party members had posted Islamophobic or racist comments online. The MCB has repeatedly called for an independent inquiry into prejudice and the handling of complaints within the party. Boris Johnson was among the MPs named in the complaint (Getty) Dozens of members have been suspended for posting Islamophobic comments on social media, including many directed at leadership contender Sajid Javid. The Conservatives were condemned after reinstating some councillors who had been suspended over racist or prejudiced social media posts. The governments commitment to combating anti-Muslim hatred was questioned in the wake of the Christchurch terror attacks, when mosques revealed they had been refused security funding. While the government doubled the pot open for bids from different places of worship, it did not bring the funding up to the 14m awarded specifically to Jewish institutions. Muslim worshippers outside a mosque were targeted in the Finsbury Park terror attack and a man who planned to bomb another mosque in south London was jailed in April. Other incidents have seen women wearing headscarves run over in revenge for Islamist atrocities, and a man plough a car into an Indian restaurant because he wanted to kill a Muslim. Since the Westminster attack in March 2017, 14 Islamist and five far-right terror plots have been foiled in the UK. Last week, the Home Affairs Committee was told that more than half of rising hate crime offences recorded by police in England and Wales are committed against Muslims. The EU has once again ruled out renegotiating Theresa Mays Brexit deal, in a major blow to several Conservative leadership candidates who have insisted that they would re-open talks if elected. Arriving at a summit in Brussels on Tuesday an exasperated Jean-Claude Juncker told reporters: I was crystal clear. There will be no renegotiation. On the doorstep of the same meeting Theresa May also warned her potential successors against leaving the EU without a deal. She told journalists she was not going to comment on the views of individual candidates, but added: I continue to have the view that its best for the UK to leave with a deal. The summit, part of the process of appointing Mr Junckers successor, will be one of the last meetings the lame duck prime minister attends in the EU capital, with the final one currently scheduled for June during the Tory leadership contest. A new Commission president is expected to be in post after 31 October, which is also the current Brexit deadline meaning whoever replaces Ms May will have to deal with Mr Juncker to avoid a no-deal. But none of his possible replacements have massively different views on Brexit, and the direction of policy on the issue is in any case set by member states. The level of continuity Brexiteers can expect from Brussels is epitomised in the fact that one of the candidates to replace Mr Juncker is in fact Michel Barnier himself, the EUs chief negotiator. Brexiteer such as Dominic Raab and Boris Johnson who want to lead the party have said they would be open to leaving without a deal a course of action expected to bring about economic chaos for the UK. The EU has repeatedly said for months that it will not renegotiate the withdrawal agreement with the UK, and that it is the only deal on the table, though it is open to changes to a separate document the political declaration for the future relationship which spells out the future trading arrangements. Theresa May warns against no-deal Brexit But Ms May has repeatedly failed to get MPs to approve the deal. A fourth attempt to bring the withdrawal agreement before the House of Commons set in motion a chain of events that led to the prime minister announcing her resignation on Friday last week. Tuesday European Council meeting, attended by all 28 EU leaders, is one of the first in the EU capital for some time where Brexit has not been discussed in at least some capacity. 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 The prime minister appeared in good spirits as she arrived at the meeting, as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. Explaining her attendance despite her lame duck status and Britain's departure, she said: "While we're still a member of the European Union, while I am prime minister, I'll be continuing to meet the obligations of the office and the duties of the office. "That includes being here today where we're due to discuss the top jobs in EU institutions and the UK will continue to play a constructive role during the time of this extension of Article 50." The UKs equality watchdog has launched a formal investigation into whether Labour has unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people from the Jewish community. The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) was moved to act after receiving a number of complaints about handling of allegations of antisemitism in Labour ranks, a row which has dogged the party for many months. Labour said it would cooperate fully with the investigation and it rejected any suggestion that it did not handle complaints fairly and robustly, or that the party has acted unlawfully. However, the news will come as a blow to Jeremy Corbyn, as the watchdog rarely takes action against political parties. The EHRC previously ordered the British National Party to rewrite its constitution in 2010 to scrap rules that only allowed white members. In a statement, the watchdog said: The EHRC is today launching a formal investigation to determine whether the Labour Party has unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish. Protests against Labour antisemitism Show all 14 1 /14 Protests against Labour antisemitism Protests against Labour antisemitism Protesters clashed during the demonstration Reuters Protests against Labour antisemitism Members of the Jewish community hold a protest against Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn and antisemitism in the Labour Party AFP/Getty Protests against Labour antisemitism Protesters hold placards and flags during a demonstration, organised by the British Board of Jewish Deputies for those who oppose antisemitism, in Parliament Square Reuters Protests against Labour antisemitism Hundreds of people gathered in Parliament Square to protest against antisemitism in the Labour Party EPA Protests against Labour antisemitism Labour MP Luciana Berger speaks during the protest PA Protests against Labour antisemitism A protester blows through a shofar during the demonstration Getty Protests against Labour antisemitism Members of London's Jewish community protest in support of Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn outside parliament EPA Protests against Labour antisemitism Labour MP John Mann speaks during a protest against antisemitism PA Protests against Labour antisemitism People protest against antisemitism in the Labour Party as Jewish community leaders have launched a scathing attack on Jeremy Corbyn, claiming he has sided with antisemites again and again PA Protests against Labour antisemitism Labour politicians Stella Creasy and Chuka Umunna leave after attending the demonstration Getty Protests against Labour antisemitism A pro-Jeremy Corbyn protester holds a placard during a counter-protest Getty Protests against Labour antisemitism A support of the Labour Party hold up a placard during the demonstration Reuters Protests against Labour antisemitism Jeremy Corbyn supporters during the demo Reuters Protests against Labour antisemitism A protester holds up a sign reading For the many, not the Jew AFP The EHRC is pleased that the Labour Party has committed to cooperate fully with its investigation. The EHRC contacted Labour after receiving a number of complaints about allegations of antisemitism in the party. The EHRC has carefully considered the response it has received from the party and has now opened a formal investigation under section 20 of the Equality Act 2006 to further examine the concerns. The watchdog will examine whether unlawful acts have been committed by Labour and whether it has responded to complaints in an efficient manner. Senior party figures could be brought before the EHRC, which will have the power to demand access to correspondence, emails and other documents to determine how Labour handled complaints of discrimination. While the body has no powers to fine or prosecute, it can create a legally enforceable action plan for organisations and make recommendations. Separately, the Muslim Council of Britain has urged the EHRC to open an investigation into alleged Islamophobia within the Conservative Party. The probe comes after nine Labour MPs defected to form Change UK in protest over Brexit and handling of antisemitism, including prominent Jewish MP Luciana Berger. Ms Berger, MP for Liverpool Wavertree, said: For anyone who might look to play this down, the threshold to initiate this process is extremely high. That the Labour Party has even met the evidenciary threshold is damning. Jewish Labour MP Margaret Hodge tweeted: A truly disgraceful day for the Labour party. One of the most depressing in my 56 years as a member. Corbyn has completely failed from day one to take this issue seriously. The consequence is a full statutory investigation, he should hang his head in shame. The Barking MP added: 9 years ago I defeated fascist Nick Griffin [ex-BNP leader] at the ballot box. His racist party was investigated by the EHRC that same year. Now, after 4 years calling out Labour antisemitism, the EHRC will investigate Labour as well. For Corbyn to have led us down this path is unforgivable. Gideon Falter, chief executive of Campaign Against Antisemitism, said it was an extraordinary step and argued that Labour had become a home for hatred in British politics. In just four chilling years, Jeremy Corbyn has turned the party which pioneered anti-racism into the party that now finds itself in the company of the BNP, being investigated by the very equality and human rights regulator it once fought so hard to establish, he said. Marie van der Zyl, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, welcomed the news of the investigation. She said: We note that the last party to face a racism probe from the EHRC was the British National Party, which is a truly shameful indictment. In the past four years we have seen a large number of cases of antisemitism throughout the party from bottom to top. Despite the Jewish community demonstrating in their thousands outside parliament, this has still not been addressed seriously by the party leadership. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events A Labour spokesperson said the party was fully committed to the support, defence and celebration of the Jewish community, saying it was implacably opposed to antisemitism in any form. We reject any suggestion that the party does not handle antisemitism complaints fairly and robustly, or that the party has acted unlawfully, and we will continue to cooperate fully with the EHRC, the spokesperson said. There has been a deeply worrying rise in antisemitism in the UK and across Europe. We are taking action to root it out of our party by strengthening our rules and procedures. But the issue can only be properly dealt with by all political parties working together to protect the interests of the Jewish community and to combat racism in politics, the media and in society more broadly. That includes the need for the Conservatives and other parties taking action to deal with racism in their own ranks. Labour is now committed to offering the public a referendum on any Brexit deal, Diane Abbott has said. The shadow home secretary said her party was now supporting a Final Say vote even on a deal that Labour has negotiated. It has previously said it would only want a public vote on a Conservative deal or to avoid a no-deal exit. But in the wake of a disastrous showing for Labour in the European parliament elections, Ms Abbott told BBC Radio 4s Today: What were saying is that we do want to have a peoples vote on any deal, and I think thats clear enough. Asked what any deal meant, she replied: It means any deal, a future deal, a deal we may negotiate. Recommended Corbyn under pressure over Final Say referendum Ms Abbott insisted that a Final Say referendum was now at the foreground of Labours Brexit policy. She said: A peoples vote has always been part of our policy package and as [shadow Brexit secretary] Keir Starmer put it, we move through the gears. But now, at minutes to midnight on these negotiations, with the Tories plunged in their leadership contest so we get no sense out of them for a few months, we think its important to foreground the peoples vote. She added: There is no inherent contradiction between respecting the result of the referendum and having a peoples vote, not least because its still not sure how a peoples vote. Ive always argued that its perfectly possible that Leave would win again, but were supporting a peoples vote strongly now because its the right thing to do and its the democratic thing to do. Pressure on the Labour leadership ratcheted up several notches after the party lost supporters to the Liberal Democrats and Green Party in the EU elections, leaving Labour with just 14 per cent of the vote. Hours after the results were announced, Ms Abbott tweeted: We have to take the time to analyse the EU vote. But, when we come in third after the Brexit Party, that is a clue something is wrong with our strategy. We need to listen to our members and take a clearer line on a public vote. European election 2019 UK results Show all 9 1 /9 European election 2019 UK results European election 2019 UK results Brexit Party European election 2019 UK results Liberal Democrats European election 2019 UK results Labour European election 2019 UK results Greens European election 2019 UK results European election 2019 UK results Plaid Cymru European election 2019 UK results Scottish National Party European election 2019 UK results Change UK European election 2019 UK results UKIP Speaking to Today, she insisted Labour was now moving towards a clearer Brexit policy. She said that securing a general election remained the partys priority but added: As the clock tickets down, if were not going to have a general election, we would support a peoples vote. Jeremy Corbyn has promised a consultation on Labours Brexit policy that could end at the partys annual conference in September, but his close ally Ms Abbott insisted he needed to move quickly. She said she would personally back Remain in any second referendum. Former prime minister Tony Blair said he had voted Labour without great enthusiasm as he pushed for the party to throw its weight behind a referendum. He said Mr Corbyn has got to come to a clear position, telling Sky News: The one that is very obvious is that both party leaderships have made the same mistake, which is to think that its possible to sit on the fence on Europe and appeal to both sides. What the European elections show you is that isnt possible. As Labour divisions on Brexit resurfaced in the aftermath of the elections, MPs in Leave-supporting areas warned against another referendum. Wigan MP Lisa Nandy said it would most likely result in a no-deal outcome. She said: Obviously in constituencies like Wigan you get very mixed views, you get different views like everywhere in the country, but to most people the idea of a second referendum just seems quite absurd. People were asked what they think, you can see from the results that we had here, that very few people have changed their minds and if there is a shift in this area of the country I think its towards no-deal Brexit. Ms Nandy added: I think weve got to wake up to the seriousness, not just of what were about to do to the Labour Party, but what were about to do the country because I strongly suspect that if there is a second referendum people here would come out and vote in fairly large numbers and probably vote for no deal. She went on: There is a huge frustration amongst Labour voters who voted Leave, in towns like mine, to see leading figures from the Labour Party out calling for a second referendum before theres been any serious attempt to implement the result of the first. Theresa May has a history of being unceremoniously banned from EU summit dinners, so the other 27 leaders can talk about Brexit without her. But with Britain off the menu at Tuesdays meeting which was strictly about choosing Jean-Claude Junckers successor the prime minister was, for once, fed. Some wondered why she bothered to come, given her lame-duck status and the fact Britain is supposed to be leaving the EU. But she didnt appear to care arriving with the unusually cheerful demeanour of someone whos had a ton of Brexit bricks lifted from her shoulders. She told reporters that she was in town because while Britain was still an EU member, it had all the same rights and obligations of any other country in the union including choosing its next commission president. Perhaps worrying that this was a bit forthright, she quickly added that Britain, of course, would abide by the rules of sincere cooperation Eurocrat speak for not taking the piss. In the room, the body language between May and her counterparts seemed genuinely warmer than usual. She took an overfamiliar embrace from Mr Juncker in her stride, meeting his gaze. Earlier in the week hed told the worlds media through a spokesperson that she was a courageous leader. It was not long ago that in the same room that the prime minister was confronting him for supposedly calling her nebulous. For once, it looked like she was having a nice time. This wont be the prime ministers final visit to the EU capital shes due to come again in June for another scheduled meeting, where her fellow leaders will probably bid her a more formal farewell. Its unlikely shell miss the city which she claimed she had visited something like 50 times it is, after all, the site of some of her greatest political humiliations. While the leaders tucked into their melon and dried figs (for that was the starter), the absence of Brexit did not go uncommented upon on the conference floor. Some European journalists, only half joking, openly celebrated the fact that the usual caravan of hacks from Westminster who follow the prime ministers every move had mostly decided it wasnt worth it this time. The Brits actually stole the spot usually used by Belgian journos, one Brussels local complained. Another quipped that they had been spared the horde of Brits that had been invading the last few meetings and taking up valuable desk space. Its probably too early for them to celebrate. Brexit will be back here with a vengeance in October. And possibly for a long time after that, too. Amazon is reportedly planning to move into office space in Manhattan, just months after cancelling plans to move into a heavily subsidised complex in Queens in the face of pushback from New York residents and politicians. In February, Amazon dropped its plans to build a massive work space in Queens with the help of major tax breaks from both New York City and New York State. The reversal was the result of intense pressure from New York citizens and lawmakers, including Representative Alexandia Ocasio-Cortez. Zephyr Teachout, who ran unsuccessfully for Attorney General alongside Cynthia Nixons failed mayoral attempt and AOCs historic election in 2018, was also a major voice in the organising efforts. The grassroots campaign against Amazons subsidised move to New York cited the companys labour practices, environmental impact, and contributions to Americas expanding wealth gap as reason for their opposition. Now, the New York Post reports that Amazon is coming to New York after all - all on their own. Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres Show all 15 1 /15 Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres One of Britain's largest centres in Dunfermline, Fife PA Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Peterborough AFP/Getty Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Hemel Hempstead PA Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Robbinsville, New Jersey Getty Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Tracy, California Reuters Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Robbinsville, New Jersey Getty Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Boves, France AFP/Getty Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Swansea PA Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Madrid Getty Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Robbinsville, New Jersey Getty Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Swansea PA Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Hemel Hempstead Getty Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Hemel Hempstead Getty Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres 'Amazon Jobs Day', a job fair, at the centre in Robbinsville, New Jersey Getty Inside the Amazon Fulfilment Centres The centre in Boves, France Reuters The giant enterprise is looking at office space in One Manhattan West, a 67-story tower in New Yorks Hudson Yards, a newly established neighbourhood largely filled with offices, luxury apartments, and high end gallery and shopping spaces. Recommended Jeff Bezos wants to help Trump return the US to the moon The Posts source claims theyre also considering space in the US Post Office building across the street, known as the James A Farley building. To some, the proposed move to Manhattan represents another round of success for the movement that pushed back against tax breaks for the giant enterprise, proving that the need for state and city-funded assistance was unfounded. For New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, the Amazon proposal was a rare agreement. Both received major pushback from their constituents. In Mr De Blasios case, those residents have been highly vocal about their lack of interest in his newly announced presidential dreams. Netflix plans on continuing to film in Georgia as controversy envelops the state over its six-week abortion ban, but says it will rethink its investment in the state if the bill actually goes into effect. The movie and television streaming service announced those intentions in a statement, making the company the first major Hollywood film production house to speak up in the aftermath of the so-called heartbeat abortion bill, which would criminalize the procedure and potentially send physicians to prison. We have many women working on productions in Georgia, whose rights, along with millions of others, will be severely restricted by this law, Ted Sarandos, the companys chief content officer, said in a statement to CNBC. Its why we will work with the ACLU and others to fight it in court. Given the legislation has not yet been implemented, well continue to film there while also supporting partners and artists who choose not to. Should it ever come into effect, wed rethink our investment in Georgia. Georgia is a prime location for filming movies and television shows, even if the best known face of the movie industry is in southern California. Georgia has made attracted film crews to the scene by offering attractive state tax incentives. Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Show all 7 1 /7 Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Derry Girls cast members Siobhan McSweeney and Nicola Coughlan (right) join MPS and women impacted by Northern Ireland's strict abortion laws PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Heidi Allen (second right) joins the protest PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster A luggage tag on a suitcase, symbolising the women who travel from Northern Ireland to England for terminations PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster The campaigners march across Westminster Bridge PA Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Counter-protesters Rebecca Morgan (left) and her daughter Helen, one, demonstrate in favour of Northern Ireland's current laws Getty Images Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Protesters supporting Northern Ireland's abortion laws at Parliament Square Getty Images Northern Ireland abortion protest in Westminster Demonstrators pull suitcases to symbolise the women who travel from Northern Ireland to England for a termination AFP/Getty Images The industry is a major boon to the state, too, and produced some $4.5bn in wages last year, and more than $9bn added to the economy last year total. Projects filmed in the state have included Black Panther and Avengers: Infinity War. Netflix, specifically, has filmed its show Queer Eye in Georgia. Kamala Harris has unveiled a new proposal targeting state abortion bans amid a wave of new restrictions being passed across the country. The 2020 presidential hopefuls Reproductive Rights Act would shift the burden from abortion providers to states attempting to pass bans by forcing them to prove the constitutionality behind the restrictive measures. If a state is unable to do so, they will not receive a pre-clearance requirement from the California Democrats Justice Department, which would be needed to enact the states law, according to a fact sheet provided by the senators campaign. The policy leans on an example created by a core special provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, known as Section 5, which barred nine states from implementing new voting laws with federal approval due to their discriminatory track records. Ms Harris, a former prosecutor and attorney general of California, said in a statement announcing her new proposal: A womans constitutional right to an abortion is under attack. Today I announced a plan as president to block these dangerous and deadly state laws before they take effect. 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 She has frequently spoken about womens rights and reproductive health care access along the campaign trail, saying during an interview last week, I will always fight for a woman's right to make whatever decision she believes is in the best interest of her and her family and the government should not be in the business of taking those decisions away from women." The policy proposal arrives as states like Alabama, Kentucky, Ohio, Georgia and Mississippi all have passed restrictions against abortions in recent months. The bills have sparked days of nationwide protests and backlash from legal experts, who say the restrictions do not hold constitutional merit. For example, Alabamas law is arguably the most restrictive in the country, limiting abortion access once a fetal heartbeat can be detected. This typically occurs just six weeks into a pregnancy, at a time when most people are unaware they are with a child. Those restrictions fly in the face of the Supreme Courts 1973 ruling in Roe v Wade, which determined abortion access was a constitutional right. However, Republican politicians voting for the abortion bans fully acknowledge the end game with passing legally ambiguous bills: to challenge that exact decision and have the Supreme Court review the constitutionality of abortions once again. "Many Americans, myself included, disagreed when Roe v Wade was handed down in 1973, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey said in a statement when signing the new law. The sponsors of this bill believe that it is time, once again, for the US Supreme Court to revisit this important matter, and they believe this act may bring about the best opportunity for this to occur. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events The Reproductive Rights Act is just one of several policy proposals Ms Harris has launched in recent weeks ahead of the first Democratic presidential primaries. The senator has also unveiled an equal pay policy that would force companies to reveal their gaps in wages among different genders and face major fines for not paying employees equally as well as a federal investment in teachers wages. The Trump administration has told a major US government department to end predicting what the long-term effects of climate change will be on the country. Director of the US Geological Survey (USGS) James Reilly a White House-appointed former oil geologist ordered that scientific assessments only use computer-generated models that track the possible impact of climate change until 2040, according to The New York Times. Previously the USGS modelled effects until the end of the century, the second half of which is likely to see the most dramatic impacts of global warming. The order is likely to impact the US governments National Climate Assessment, an interagency report produced every four years which outlines the projected impact of climate change in every corner of US society. In the most recent report, produced late last year and dismissed by Mr Trump, scientists used computer models to predict the US would face devastating economic and health impacts from global warming by the end of the century. 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 In the next report, due for release in 2021 or 2022, worst-case scenario predictions will not automatically be included, in what one climate scientist, Philip Duffy of the Woods Hole Research Center, said was a blatant attempt to politicise science. The move is just the latest in a concerted attempt by the Trump White House to undermine climate science and challenge attempts to address runaway warming, which is posing an existential threat to much of life on Earth. Earlier this year, leaked documents revealed Mr Trumps administration was creating a panel to challenge climate threat assessments, headed by a climate change denier who once compared the demonisation of carbon dioxide to the treatment of Jews in Nazi Germany. William Happer, who also serves on Mr Trumps national security council, is a beneficiary of Robert Mercer, a far-right billionaire who funds climate denialism. Mr Trump has regularly mocked global warming, having repeatedly called for more of it during periods of cold weather. One of his first moves as president was to unilaterally withdraw the US from the Paris climate agreement, making it now the only country on Earth in opposition to the accords. Donald Trump has criticised complex planes and electric catapults on warships during a bizarre rant to an audience of US sailors and marines stationed in Japan. The president, speaking aboard the USS Wasp at the Yokosuka naval base, polled US Navy personnel on whether they preferred traditional steam catapults or modern electric ones, which are used to propel planes off aircraft carriers. I really need this information, because you know were building carriers, were building one, theyre using an electric catapult and an electric elevator, Mr Trump said, in reference to the Gerald R Ford, an aircraft carrier being built for the Navy. Number one I cant imagine in the case of battle, it must be very delicate, OK? And you know steams only worked for about 65 years perfectly. And I wont tell you this, because its before my time by a little bit, but they have a $900m cost overrun on this crazy electric catapult, I said, What was wrong with steam? I would like to know. Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Show all 7 1 /7 Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies Doctors and mothers killing babies At a rally in Wisconsin in April 2019, Mr Trump made this extraordinary claim. The baby is born, the mother meets with the doctor, they take care of the baby, Mr Trump said. They wrap the baby beautifully and then the doctor and the mother decide whether they will execute the baby Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "China rapes our country" At a rally in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 2016, Mr Trump said this in reference to the US trade deficit with China: "we cant continue to allow China to rape our country and thats what theyre doing. Its the greatest theft in the history of the world" Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "EU formed to take advantage of US" At a rally for the midterm elections in October 2018, Mr Trump called the EU a "brutal" alliance that "formed to take advantage of us" AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I will build a wall and Mexico will pay for it" Mr Trump first made this claim at the launch of his presidential campaign back in 2015: "I will build a great, great wall on our southern border, and I will have Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words" AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "Horrible, horrendous people" At a Republican rally in Pennsylvania on August 3 2018, President Trump deemed all journalists in attendance "horrible, horrendous people". He later denounced the "fake, fake, disgusting news" for falsely reporting that he was late to his meeting with the Queen when visiting Britain AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody" Mr Trump said this in reference to his popularity during a rally in Iowa in 2016 AFP/Getty Most shocking remarks made by Trump at campaign rallies "I wish I could punch him" Mr Trump said this in reference to a protester who was escorted out of his rally in Las Vegas on 22 February, 2016. There was often violence between protesters and supporters at Trump's campaign rallies AFP/Getty After one audience member yelled for electric, Mr Trump joked, He works for the enemy, before continuing his criticism of modern military technology. Theyre always coming up with new ideas, theyre making planes so complex you cant fly them, he said. They wanna show next, next, next. We all want innovation, but its too much. But theres never been anything like the steam catapult, and I went to the Gerald Ford, which is under construction now for a long time, theyre having a problem with their electric catapult, and I was talking to the catapult people and they said, Steam. In the meantime were spending all that money on electric, and nobody knows what its going to be like in bad conditions, you understand. So I think Im going to put in an order, when we build a new aircraft carrier, were gonna use steam, Im just gonna put out an order, were gonna use steam. Mr Trump has repeatedly railed against the electromagnetic catapult system, including in a phone call last year with a US Navy Officer, who contradicted the president by saying ships were paying a heavy cost by using steam. Mr Trumps critique of US aircraft carriers came at the end of his four-day state visit to Japan, where he became the first foreign leader to meet newly-ordained Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako. Trump comments on steam catapults in full: Let me ask you a question: Catapult, right? The catapult system, do you like electric or steam? (Cheers mainly for steam). Steam. Who said electric? Theres one guy back there (laughs from audience). Ok I really need this information, cos you know, were building carriers, were building one, theyre using an electric catapult and an electric elevator. Number one I cant imagine in the case of battle, it must be very delicate, OK? And you know steams only worked for about 65 years perfectly. And I wont tell you this, because its before my time by a little bit, but they have a $900m cost overrun on this crazy electric catapult, I said, What was wrong with steam? I would like to know. All of the folks that know exactly what Im talking about, the catapult system, steam or electric, ready? Steam? (Cheers) Electric? (Fewer cheers). He works for the enemy (laughs). Hes alright (inaudible). He might be in danger. No we wanna go with steam. You know theyre always coming up with new ideas, theyre making planes so complex you cant fly them. You know that? No its (inaudible). They wanna show next, next, next. We all want innovation, but its too much. But theres never been anything like the steam catapult, and I went to the Gerald Ford, which is under construction now for a long time, theyre having a problem with their electric catapult, and I was talking to the catapult people and they said, Steam. In the meantime were spending all that money on electric, and nobody knows what its going to be like in bad conditions, you understand. So I think Im going to put in an order, when we build a new aircraft carrier, were gonna use steam, Im just gonna put out an order, were gonna use steam. We dont need, we dont need that extra speed, you know they were saying, one of the folks, said, you know, No the electric works faster, but sir we can only get the plane there every couple of minutes. So really, what they did is wrong. And we make mistakes but generally speaking we get it right, but when we make em and we have to correct it, so were going to put out an order, we wanna use steam. Special counsel Robert Mueller drafted indictments against Donald Trump before ultimately deciding against charging the sitting president with obstruction of justice, according to a new book penned by author Michael Wolff. The alleged three-count obstruction of justice indictment was immediately disputed by a spokesperson for the special counsel after first being reported on Tuesday. The Guardian reportedly viewed the indictment documents while reviewing a copy of the book Siege: Trump Under Fire. However, according to Mr Muellers spokesperson Peter Carr, those documents do not exist. The reported draft document would have allegedly charged Mr Trump with influencing, obstructing or impeding a pending proceeding before a department or agency of the United States, according to the outlet, along with tampering with a witness, victim or informant and retaliating against a witness, victim or informant. The charges fall under Title 18, United States Code, Section 1505, 1512 and 1513 respectively. The alleged indictment went on to describe extraordinary lengths the president took to protect himself from legal scrutiny and accountability, and to undermine the official panels investigating his actions, according to Mr Wolff whose explosive first book about the Trump presidency, called Fire and Fury, sold nearly five million copies. 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 Revelations of the alleged indictments arrive as Congressional Democrats seek to bring the special counsel before committees investigating the presidents potential obstruction of justice outlined in Mr Muellers report on Russian interference in the 2016 election. The massive report detailed at least 11 cases in which the president possibly committed obstruction of justice. Democratic leadership on Capitol Hill have suggested the special counsel was passing the decision to Congress about whether to implicate the president in a high crime or misdemeanour. Mr Mueller has not yet indicated whether he intends to testify before Congress, and rarely releases public statements through his spokespeople. But the authors controversial new claims could almost certainly be expected to lead the news cycle as Mr Trump returns from his official state visit to Japan over the holiday weekend. More than a thousand former federal prosecutors have signed an open letter stating Mr Trump would have been charged with obstruction of justice based on the special counsels report, were it not for Justice Department guidelines that say a sitting president cannot be charged. The alleged indictments against Mr Trump reportedly dispute those guidelines, however. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events The Impeachment Judgment Clause, which applies equally to all civil officers including the president takes for granted that an officer may be subject to indictment and prosecution before impeachment, the reported document reads, according to The Guardian. If it did not, the clause would be creating, for civil officers, precisely the immunity the Framers rejected. The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Close Donald Trump attacks complex US weapons in rant to marines: The catapult people said steam Donald Trump will return on Tuesday from his red carpet trip to Japan facing severe criticism after he endorsed remarks made by North Korea mocking his US national security adviser John Bolton and 2020 rival Joe Biden, rather than take Pyongyang to task for defying UN Security Council resolutions on missile testing. Kim Jong-un is a murderous dictator and Vice-President Biden served this country honourably, 2020 challenger Pete Buttigieg responded after President Trump responded to Mr Kims suggestion that Mr Biden was a low IQ individual by saying: He probably is, based on his record. I think I agree with him on that. Touching down in Washington, the president is also expected to continue facing calls for his impeachment by Democrats in the House of Representatives. While there is a growing push for impeachment proceedings, top Democratic leadership have remained skeptical about the mesaure and any successful impeachment would almost surely be struck down in the Senate. Please allow a moment for our liveblog to load At least three models are predicting that Donald Trump will win re-election in 2020, a prediction based on combinations of several factors including economic data and incumbent advantage. The models were compiled for a recent op-ed written by Steven Rattner, who served as a counsel in the Treasury Department during Barack Obamas presidency. According to Mr Rattner, one of the most reliable models is one created by Ray Fair, a professor at Yale University who combines incumbency and gross domestic product growth rates to predict who might win the presidency. That model apparently predicted Mr Obamas 2008 popular vote win within a fraction of a percentage point, and was able to get within two-tenths of his 2012 vote share. But, that model has some flaws, and failed to take into account some of the peculiarities presented by Mr Trump himself. Thats to say, the model did not predict that Mr Trump would lose by 3 million votes a likely sign that the model did not adequately take into account the American publics apparent personal distaste for Mr Trump. 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 In addition to Mr Fairs model, Mark Zandi, the chief economist at Moodys Analytics, has also analysed several models to find that Mr Trump will likely win in 2020. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events An analysis of the Electoral College by Donald Luskin of Trend Macrolytics has also found Mr Trump has a good chance of winning re-election. A new Filipino law would require all graduating high school and college students to plant at least 10 trees each before they can graduate. The law, which has been passed by the countrys lower parliamentary house, formalises a tradition of planting trees upon graduation, which is also hoped to simultaneously combat global climate change. The proponents of the law say the legislation could result in as many as 525 billion trees planted in a generation if it is properly adhered to. It has not yet been considered by the Senate (the upper parliamentary chamber), which must approve it before it can be signed into law by the president. The Philippines Magdalo Party representative Gary Alejano, who was the principal author of the legislation, said: With over 12 million students graduating from elementary and nearly five million students graduating from high school and almost 500,000 graduating from college each year, this initiative, if properly implemented, will ensure that at least 175 million new trees would be planted each year. In the course of one generation, no less than 525 billion can be planted under this initiative, Mr Alejano said in the bills explanatory note. Goats in trees Show all 10 1 /10 Goats in trees Goats in trees Moroccan goats grazing in argan tree Getty Goats in trees Moroccan goats in an argan tree AFP/Getty Goats in trees Moroccan goats grazing in argan tree AFP/Getty Goats in trees Moroccan goats grazing in argan tree Getty Goats in trees Moroccan goats climbing an argan tree to feed AFP/Getty Goats in trees A Moroccan goat in argan tree AFP/Getty Goats in trees Moroccan goats grazing in argan tree AFP/Getty Goats in trees Moroccan goats grazing at an argan tree AFP/Getty Goats in trees A kid perched in an argan tree Getty Goats in trees Moroccan goats grazing in argan tree AFP/Getty Even with a survival rate of only 10 per cent, this would mean an additional 525 million trees would be available for the youth to enjoy, when they assume the mantle of leadership in the future. The trees will apparently be planted in mangroves, existing forests, some protected areas, military ranges, abandoned mining sites and selected urban areas, according to CNNs Philippines news service. The backers of the bill said the species selected for planting must be appropriate to each location, climate and topography of the area and there will also be a preference for indigenous species. In addition to the immediate carbon-absorbing impact of the trees, it is hoped the legislation will help bring environmental understanding to future generations and lead to further ecological initiatives. The countrys Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education will implement and ensure compliance with the bill if it is ultimately enacted. The Philippines is one of the worlds most severely deforested countries with total forest cover dropping from 70 per cent to just 20 per cent during the 20th century. Illegal logging remains a problem for the country and the lack of trees in some areas has exacerbated the risk and the impacts of floods and landslides. Update: This article has been amended to make clear that, while the bill has been passed by the House of Representatives, it has not yet been considered or passed by the Philippines Senate (the countrys upper house), nor signed into law by the president. 4/6/19 Australian politician Ken Wyatt has become the countrys first indigenous cabinet minister after he was appointed minister for Indigenous Australians. The historic appointment was announced by prime minister Scott Morrison who has reshuffled and revamped his cabinet after winning a surprise majority in elections this month. Mr Wyatt became the first indigenous Australian man to be elected to Australias House of Representatives in 2010 and in his maiden speech wore a kangaroo-skin cape known as a booka a traditional symbol of leadership. He was formerly the minister for aged care and indigenous health, which was an outer ministry position for which he did not sit in cabinet. The 66-year-old conservative MP won an increased majority at the 2019 election, and his elevation to the cabinet has been widely celebrated by Indigenous Australians. ScUber on the Great Barrier Reef Show all 7 1 /7 ScUber on the Great Barrier Reef ScUber on the Great Barrier Reef ScUber ScUber Tourism and Events Queensland ScUber on the Great Barrier Reef ScUber ScUber Tourism and Events Queensland ScUber on the Great Barrier Reef ScUber ScUber Tourism and Events Queensland ScUber on the Great Barrier Reef ScUber ScUber Tourism and Events Queensland ScUber on the Great Barrier Reef ScUber ScUber Tourism and Events Queensland ScUber on the Great Barrier Reef Heron Island Heron Island Tourism and Events Queensland ScUber on the Great Barrier Reef ScUber ScUber Tourism and Events Queensland Australia has had a fraught relationship with its marginalised indigenous population throughout its modern history. Before the first fleet carrying Europeans arrived in 1788 to found a penal colony, it is estimated there were between 750,000 and 1.5 million indigenous people living on the continent. By 1901 the number was closer to just 100,000. Disease was one factor, but a significant proportion of people were killed. Many were forced to work as slaves in the cattle industry and in land-clearing operations. Relations deteriorated further in the 20th century when the law allowed a government-appointed chief protector to undertake the care, custody or control of an Aboriginal or half-caste if in his opinion it was necessary or desirable. Between 1910 and 1970, many indigenous children were forcibly removed from their families. They would become known as the Stolen Generations. Numerous protests characterised the decades after the Second World War and in 1976 the Aboriginal Land Right act was passed which recognised the rights of indigenous people to lands in the Northern Territory. In 2008, then prime minister Kevin Rudd delivered a national apology to the Stolen Generations, and it was acknowledged that one in three children of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were forcibly removed from their families. But deep-seated divisions remain in Australia, and Mr Wyatt faces major challenges over inequality and further recognition. A new 500km electricity cable will be built to bypass Britain and connect Ireland directly to the European Union's energy markets after Brexit, under plans confirmed on Tuesday. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and French president Emmanuel Macron signed a letter on Tuesday at a meeting in Brussels pledging themselves to build the so-called Celtic Interconnector. Ireland is expecting to face significant disruption when Britain leaves the single market because a large proportion of the country's trade travels through the United Kingdom and then onwards across the Irish sea. The new power cable, which is also expected to include a fibre-optic telecoms connection, would be Ireland's only direct link to another EU member state once Britain leaves. It would carry around 700MW at high-voltage direct current, and run under the sea. Energy regulators in the two countries approved the project at the beginning of May this year, and it has now received the political go-ahead. Irish power grid operator Eirgrid said that the link will be beneficial for both countries and Europe as a whole. It would stretch from the country's south coast to Brittany in north west France. It is planned to be completed by 2026 and will cost 930 million, with 65 per cent of the project's cost allocated to Ireland and 35 per cent to France. However, because the infrastructure has been declared a Common Interest Project by the European Commission, it is eligible for EU financial support, with an application for a grant covering up to 60 per cent of its costs expected. 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 While proposals for the connector predate Britain's EU referendum, it has been given a new impetus by the UK's vote to leave the bloc, which potentially puts Ireland's security of supply at risk. Ireland's existing undersea cables, which carry both power and communications data, connect it to the UK, Isle of Man, and the United States. The gay dating app Grindr has been blocked for most users in Lebanon, sparking concern over a widening crackdown on the LGBT+ community in the country. The social networking app, which connects users based on their location, went offline for users of the state-owned internet service provider over the weekend and has been unusable since. The local Daily Star newspaper reported that access to the app was blocked by Ogero on the orders of the public prosecutors office, and that it would soon be blocked by all internet service providers. No explanation for the ban has been given. The blocking of the app is just the latest in a series of moves by authorities that have raised concerns among the LGBT+ community in Lebanon once seen as a beacon of liberalism in a religiously conservative region. This is not an independent incident, this is part of a bigger campaign and strategy to limit the spaces of the LGBT community, said Georges Azzi, executive director of the Arab Foundation For Freedoms and Equality. The groups behind this campaign operate in an atmosphere where the government and security apparatuses are encouraging attacks on freedom of expression. We are being controlled by medieval forces, he added. The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers Show all 10 1 /10 The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers North Macedonia 16 per cent Getty Images The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers Moldova 14 per cent Getty Images/iStockphoto The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers Lichtenstein 14 per cent Getty Images/iStockphoto The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers Belarus 13 per cent Getty Images/iStockphoto The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers San Marino 13 per cent Getty Images/iStockphoto The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers Monaco 11 per cent Getty Images The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers Russia 10 per cent Getty Images The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers Armenia 6 per cent Getty Images/iStockphoto The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers Turkey 5 per cent Getty Images The worst destinations for LGBT+ holidaymakers Azerbaijan 3 per cent Getty Images/iStockphoto Lebanon has traditionally been seen as more forward-thinking in relation to LGBT+ rights in comparison to the rest of the Middle East. But despite some gains in recent years, the community still faces widespread discrimination. Activists responded positively to a ruling issued by a district court last year which overturned a law that had been used to persecute the LGBT+ community in Lebanon. Article 534 of Lebanons penal code, which was introduced in the early 20th century under the French mandate, punishes any sexual intercourse contrary to the order of nature. Judges ruled that the law could not be applied to consensual sex between adults of the same sex. Five most anti-LGBT+ countries in Europe, according to ILGA-Europe But in February this year, Human Rights Watch filed a complaint with the United Nations over claims that Lebanons security services repeatedly interfered with human rights events related to gender and sexuality. The complaint came in response to an attempt by police to shut down a regional conference on the rights of LGBT+ people being held in Lebanon. Digital forms of communication like Grindr break the isolation that members of the community feel as many still live with family Tarek Zeidan, executive director of LGBT+ rights group Helem There were some positive steps and Lebanon has been the space for activism in the region, but this space and freedom is being taken away from us, Mr Azzi said. The lack of public space for LGBT+ people in Lebanon was one of the reasons the Grindr app was so important, according to Tarek Zeidan, executive director of Helem, one of the oldest LGBT+ rights groups in the region. Lebanon is a place that is sorely lacking in non-commercial public places where members of the community can freely and openly meet. Digital forms of communication like Grindr break the isolation that members of the community feel as many still live with family, he told The Independent. Grindr has also become an effective way to disseminate life-saving information on sexual health and safety this move will set these efforts back significantly, especially when it comes to contacting difficult-to-reach populations such as individuals living in rural areas, closeted or discreet individuals, and refugees which constitute a sizeable portion of the community, he added. A member of an Isis cell nicknamed The Beatles has admitted his part in a plot to kill soldiers, police officers and civilians in a series of drive-by moped shootings in London. Alexanda Kotey, who is now in a jail operated by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces jail in Syria, also admitted to helping to direct funds towards the attackers, Tarik Hassane and Suhaib Majeed, who were sentenced to life in prison in 2016. They had planned to shoot their targets from a moped in drive-by shootings at Shepherds Bush police station and the Parachute Regiment Territorial Barracks in White City. Kotey told ITV News the attack was intended to be part of a wider plan to create sleeper cells in European countries. He said: The idea was to plant people in countries so that if there was any aggression from these countries they would have people who would conduct a mission. Timeline of the Isis caliphate Show all 19 1 /19 Timeline of the Isis caliphate Timeline of the Isis caliphate ISIS began as a group by the merging of extremist organisations ISI and al-Nusra in 2013. Following clashes, Syrian rebels captured the ISIS headquarters in Aleppo in January 2014 (pictured) AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi declared the creation of a caliphate in Mosul on 27 June 2014 Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis conquered the Kurdish towns of Sinjar and Zumar in August 2014, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes. Pictured are a group of Yazidi Kurds who have fled Rex Timeline of the Isis caliphate On September 2 2014 Isis released a video depicting the beheading of US journalist Steven Sotloff. On September 13 they released another video showing the execution of British aid worker David Haines Timeline of the Isis caliphate The US launched its first airstrikes against Isis in Syria on 23 September 2014. Here Lt Gen William C Mayville Jnr speaks about the bombing campaign in the wake of the first strikes Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis militants sit atop a hill planted with their flag in the Syrian town of Kobani on 6 October 2014. They had been advancing on Kobani since mid-September and by now was in control of the citys entrance and exit points AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Residents of the border village of Alizar keep guard day and night as they wait in fear of mortar fire from Isis who have occupied the nearby city of Kobani Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Smoke rises following a US airstrike on Kobani, 28 October 2014 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate YPG fighters raise a flag as they reclaim Kobani on 26 January 2015 VOA Timeline of the Isis caliphate Isis seized the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra on 20 May 2015. This image show the city from above days after its capture by Isis Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Kurdish forces are stationed on a hill above the town of Sinjar as smoke rises following US airstrikes on 12 November 2015 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Kurdish forces enter Sinjar after seizing it from Isis control on 13 November 2015 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Iraqi government forces make the victory sign as they retake the city of Fallujah from ISIS on 26 June 2016 Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Iraqi forces battle with Isis for the city of Mosul on 30 June 2017 AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Members of the Iraqi federal police raise flags in Mosul on 8 July 2017. On the following day, Iraqi prime minister Haider Al Abadi declares victory over Isis in Mosul Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Members of Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate in Al-Naim square after taking back the city of Raqqa from Isis. US-backed Syrian forces declare victory over Isis in Raqqa on 20 October 2017 after a four-month long campaign Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Female fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces celebrate in Al-Naim Square after taking back the city of Raqqa from Isis. US-backed Syrian forces declare victory over Isis in Raqqa on 20 October 2017 after a four-month long campaign AFP/Getty Timeline of the Isis caliphate Trucks full of women and children arrive from the last Isis-held areas in Deir ez-Zor, Syria in January 2019 They were among the last civilians to be living in the ISIS caliphate, by this time reduced to just two small villages in Syrias Deir ez-Zor Richard Hall/The Independent Timeline of the Isis caliphate Zikia Ibrahim, 28, with her two-year-old son and 8-month-old daughter, after fleeing the Isis caliphate, on Saturday 26 January 2019 Richard Hall/The Independent Kotey, who is originally from London, also said he would arrange for donations made in Britain to reach the terror group in Syria. When people would raise donations in Britain I would co-ordinate with them to send money to us, he said. I used my phone to communicate. He revealed his role as a hostage-keeper for The Beatles, which he said involved extracting information from western prisoners. He said he forced hostages to divulge the email addresses of relatives so he could inform them their loved ones had been taken hostage. However, Kotey denied he took part in any killings. I dont see in my case it makes a very big difference if I was actually there or not there, he said. He added: I have a lot of accusations against me, they are quite heavy accusations so it wouldnt change much if I said I was there or I wasnt. Isis leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi seen in new video for first time in five years Last year, government ministers were accused of misleading parliament on why the UK dropped its opposition to the death penalty for Kotey and another member of The Beatles, El Shafee Sheikh. Kotey and Elsheikh, who had their British citizenship stripped, are likely to be sent to the US for prosecution. Official documents have named them as members of the cell, claiming they beheaded more than 27 hostages and tortured many more. Mohammed Emwazi, also known as Jihadi John, was been killed in a drone strike in 2015 while the remaining member, Aine Davis, is imprisoned in Turkey. Airline travellers to, from and within Canada are soon to benefit from the worlds toughest passenger-rights rules, with carriers that overbook obliged to pay over 1,400 to people bumped off planes. The Canadian Transportation Agency has unveiled Air Passenger Protection Regulations that apply to any flight to, from or within Canada. Most of the rules take effect on 15 July 2019. The harshest penalties are the payments stipulated for passengers who are denied boarding against their will. While selling more tickets than there are seats available on a flight is legal, the new rules make it obligatory to ask every passenger on an overbooked flight if they will take a later flight in return for a financial incentive. An airline must not deny boarding to a passenger unless it has asked all passengers if they are willing to give up their seat. If there are insufficient volunteers, and a passenger is offloaded against their will, the airline must pay compensation of C$2,400 (1,405) not later than 48 hours after the time of the denial of boarding. The maximum commensurate payment under the European air passengers rights rules is 600 (520). Airlines that went bust Show all 12 1 /12 Airlines that went bust Airlines that went bust Air Berlin Air Berlin, which operated flights to and from Berlin Tegel, went bankrupt in 2017 Getty Airlines that went bust Small Planet Lithuanian airline Small Planet filed for insolvency at the end of 2018 Igor Dvurekov Airlines that went bust Monarch Airlines The airline ceased operations in October 2017 AFP/Getty Airlines that went bust VLM Antwerp-based VLM went bankrupt in September 2018 Flo Weiss Airlines that went bust Germania German airline Germania filed for insolvency in February 2019 Getty Airlines that went bust Kingfisher Founded in 2005 ceased flying in October 2012 AFP/Getty Airlines that went bust Cobalt Cobalt, based in Larnaca, Cyprus, stopped flying in October 2018 Steve Lynes Airlines that went bust Mexicana An airline that had been in operation since 1921, went bust in August 2010. It was Mexico's largest airline AFP/Getty Airlines that went bust WOW Air Icelandic Wow Air ceased operation in March 2019 Getty Airlines that went bust Primera Primera, known for its cheap transatlantic fares, went bust in October 2018 Getty Airlines that went bust Transaero A privately-owened airline founded in Russia, 1990 lasted until October 2015 Getty Airlines that went bust Malev After 66 years, Hungary's national airline went stopped flying in 2012 AFP/Getty Canada also leapfrogs Europes tariff for flight delays, by stipulating a payment of C$1,000 (590) for delays of above nine hours; the 600 (520) maximum in the EU is for delays of four-hours on long-haul flights. Passengers are able to claim only once, so for a UK-Canada flight delayed by nine hours or more the passengers best option would be to claim for the Canadian compensation. However, in Canada delays due to technical problems do not qualify for compensation. For small airlines, which fly fewer than two million passengers annually, payment levels are approximately halved. Canadas transport minister, Marc Garneau, said: Our goal was to provide a world-leading approach to air passenger rights that would be predictable and fair for passengers, while ensuring our air carriers remain strong and competitive. The International Air Transport Association (Iata), which is based in Canada, is firmly against high payouts, saying instead that airlines should compete on their provisions for disrupted passengers: Government regulations should form the lowest common denominator and market forces should be allowed to determine additional standards of service levels. Recommended How to claim money back if your journey is delayed or cancelled It adds: Safety-related delays or cancellations, such as those resulting from technical issues with an aircraft, should always be considered as extraordinary circumstances such as to exonerate air carriers from liability for such delays and cancellations. The Canadian regulations add significant precision to rules on seating children close to adults. Any child under five must be sat adjacent to a parent or carer. Children between five and 11 cannot be separated by more than one seat. Twelve- and 13-year-olds must be seated no further than an adjacent row. On a day when Flybe cancelled dozens of flights due to strikes in Amsterdam, the chief executive of the troubled airline announced she would stand down on 15 July. Christine Ourmieres-Wideners departure is expected to coincide with Connect Airways a consortium of Virgin Atlantic, Stobart Air and a US investor taking control of the Exeter-based regional airline. She has been chief executive of the Exeter-based airline for two years. Ms Ourmieres-Widener told staff in an internal email: Together, we have been able to secure the jobs of our loyal Flybe employees with the sale to Connect Airways and provide our customers and the UK with the vital transport and travel infrastructure they rely on, while preparing Flybe for a bright future under its new ownership. In the official public announcement shortly afterwards, Flybe director Jonathan Peachey praised her tireless efforts to safeguard the future for the customers and communities who rely on Flybe, as well as the companys employees, its pension-fund members and its creditors. In a challenging environment which has seen several airlines collapse, Ms Ourmieres-Widener presided over a spell of heavy losses. Airlines that went bust Show all 12 1 /12 Airlines that went bust Airlines that went bust Air Berlin Air Berlin, which operated flights to and from Berlin Tegel, went bankrupt in 2017 Getty Airlines that went bust Small Planet Lithuanian airline Small Planet filed for insolvency at the end of 2018 Igor Dvurekov Airlines that went bust Monarch Airlines The airline ceased operations in October 2017 AFP/Getty Airlines that went bust VLM Antwerp-based VLM went bankrupt in September 2018 Flo Weiss Airlines that went bust Germania German airline Germania filed for insolvency in February 2019 Getty Airlines that went bust Kingfisher Founded in 2005 ceased flying in October 2012 AFP/Getty Airlines that went bust Cobalt Cobalt, based in Larnaca, Cyprus, stopped flying in October 2018 Steve Lynes Airlines that went bust Mexicana An airline that had been in operation since 1921, went bust in August 2010. It was Mexico's largest airline AFP/Getty Airlines that went bust WOW Air Icelandic Wow Air ceased operation in March 2019 Getty Airlines that went bust Primera Primera, known for its cheap transatlantic fares, went bust in October 2018 Getty Airlines that went bust Transaero A privately-owened airline founded in Russia, 1990 lasted until October 2015 Getty Airlines that went bust Malev After 66 years, Hungary's national airline went stopped flying in 2012 AFP/Getty Flybe, which competes for passengers with Europes two budget giants, easyJet and Ryanair, is shrinking its fleet and network in an attempt to restore profitability. But it has faced crewing problems, which led to substantial cancellations at the start of the summer season in late March and early April. For each passenger on cancelled flights, Flybe is obliged to find alternative departures, provide accommodation if needed and pay 250 (215) in compensation under European air passengers rights rules. Recommended How to claim money back if your journey is delayed or cancelled Ms Ourmieres-Wideners departure is a setback in overcoming the overwhelmingly male domination of aviation. While many women work for airlines, leadership is almost exclusively male worldwide. Farzaneh Sharafbafi recently stood down as chief executive of Iran Air. Dame Carolyn McCall served as chief executive of Britains biggest budget airline, easyJet, from 2010 before taking over at ITV in 2018. Cathy Adams, head of travel at The Independent, said: This is a good opportunity for Flybe to be a trend-bucking airline and appoint another woman as CEO. A mother of two has described her anger and embarrassment after being told to stop breastfeeding her seven-month-old son on a recent Ryanair flight. Rachel Duffy, 40, had just boarded a return flight from Faro in Portugal to Manchester after a 10-day holiday with her baby and 14-year-old son, Nathan. Duffy, from Yorkshire, had reportedly read that breastfeeding your child during take-off and landing could reduce ear discomfort, caused by cabin pressure, in babies. The mother said she had successfully fed her baby on the outbound Ryanair flight and began to do so again. However, Duffy claims she was apprehended by a member of cabin crew who ordered her to stop breastfeeding, stopping and waiting until the child had unlatched and redressed before moving on. 10 best European destinations 2019 Show all 10 1 /10 10 best European destinations 2019 10 best European destinations 2019 10. Istria, Croatia Lonely Planet's Best in Europe guide 2019 Getty 10 best European destinations 2019 9. Vevey, Switzerland Getty 10 best European destinations 2019 8. Liechtenstein Getty 10 best European destinations 2019 7. Lyon, France Getty 10 best European destinations 2019 6. Shetland, Scotland Getty 10 best European destinations 2019 5. Bari, Italy Getty 10 best European destinations 2019 4. Herzegovina, Bosnia and Herzegovina Getty 10 best European destinations 2019 3. Arctic Coast Way, Iceland Getty 10 best European destinations 2019 2. Madrid, Spain Getty 10 best European destinations 2019 1. High Tatras, Slovakia Getty The air steward came over and told me that I couldnt feed my son, which was shocking as I had been fine on the Ryanair flight just 10 days earlier, she said. The steward stood and watched while I struggled to sit my baby up who started to cry and continued to stand there until I had re-dressed myself. Duffy attempted to feed her child again on the descent into Manchester, but was stopped again by Ryanair staff. I was really shocked, angry and embarrassed by the situation I continued to breastfeed during the rest of the flight, but I was told to stop again before landing, she said. Duffys negative experience on the low-cost carrier has affected her outlook on future journeys with her son. Its left me incredibly anxious and nervous to fly again and I wont be doing so with Ryanair, she said. Duffy said she had no problem breastfeeding during take-off and landing on the outbound flight 10 days earlier. Recommended Chrissy Teigen reveals the trials and tribulations of flying with kids When I flew to Portugal from Manchester, on a Ryanair flight, I was allowed to breastfeed during take-off and landing, she said. No one said anything to me, even when they were doing the seatbelt checks. Its made me very angry and others that I have spoken to are disgusted with Ryanair, she continued. It made our flight very difficult and uncomfortable. A spokesperson for Ryanair told The Independent: Breastfeeding mothers are very welcome onboard our flights. At this stage, its first and foremost a German phenomenon, though theres clear evidence of it elsewhere. Might it herald a future rallying point for Green parties across Europe, perhaps even for the depleted, dislocating centre-left? The German Greens are celebrating an historic breakthrough in the European elections, doubling their vote to almost 21 per cent to finish second behind Chancellor Angela Merkels CDU-CSU (28.9 per cent). Among voters under the age of 30, one in three voted Green. The Greens beating into third place the social democratic SPD party for the first time in national elections (15.8 per cent), is tantamount to an earthquake in German politics, akin to the extremist Alternative for Deutschlands entering the federal parliament after elections in 2017. The Greens won about 1.3 million votes from the SPD on Sunday, but almost as many 1.1 million at the expense of the centre-right CDU-CSU, following the pattern of Bavarian regional elections last October. So why does the German model of environment politics appear to be working when Green parties elsewhere, though on the rise, polled substantially less than their German brethren? Significantly, the Greens have drawn voters away from other parties by arguing a pragmatic, pro-alliance approach to dealing with them. Co-leader Robert Habeck has said the consensus-minded Grunen are prepared to break bread with any party, save the extremists. The broad church approach appears to extend beyond both national politics and borders. In Europe, the gargantuan cost of greening the economy cant be paid for by governments still heavily in debt after the 2008 financial crisis. The private sector is needed. So the fight to save the planet must be waged with it and not against. European election 2019 UK results Show all 9 1 /9 European election 2019 UK results European election 2019 UK results Brexit Party European election 2019 UK results Liberal Democrats European election 2019 UK results Labour European election 2019 UK results Greens European election 2019 UK results European election 2019 UK results Plaid Cymru European election 2019 UK results Scottish National Party European election 2019 UK results Change UK European election 2019 UK results UKIP In the developing world, the old lefts de-globalising argument doesnt really wash urging depopulation and curbs on growth when more open economies have helped to make poorer countries richer in the first place. The perspective here is that an ideological view of the environment puts a brake on the emergence of workable, electorally sellable strategies. The Greens represent the people who believe in the necessity of the sustainable transformation of the economy and the financial system, said Greens lead candidate in Bavaria, Henrike Hahn, who pre-politics was a business consultant. So is this all this merely cyclical? The Greens have risen before in Germany, as Green parties do when mainstream parties, particularly of the left, are on the wane. Yet today the German Greens are most effectively riding the wave of public urgency about the environment, marked by protest (inspired by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg; joined in recent days by audacious German vloggers such as the the blue-haired Rezo). However, weve now reached a point of inevitability: without major coordinated action, at the local, regional and international level, life on earth may be heading for the wall. This month a UN report detailed the tragic decline of biodiversity and claimed that a million species of plants and animals could face extinction within decades. We know already that the worlds non-arable regions are growing, entrenching water shortages; that global temperatures are on course to rise between 3 and 5 degrees by the end of the century (compared to 1850); that deforestation is severely compromising the planets absorption of carbon dioxide; that marine plastic pollution has increased ten-fold since 1980. Another joint scientific report last week said that seas levels could rise by a breathtaking two metres by the end of the century. From the traditional Green corner comes the fundamentalist argument that if the market economy were going to save the environment, we would know by now because were living in it. Yet internal divisions are ripping the more traditional Green approach asunder. In France, the so-called social-ecological left is a seriously fractious five-way multiple. Encouraging is that the more progressive Europe ecologie les Verts (EELV) won about 13.5 per cent of the vote. The way forward, perhaps, is to join the passion of old green radicalism to the more contemporary, inclusive German approach. To seek what French political scientist Antoine Colombani has called virtuous interactions between market forces and government policies for transformative change. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Frances Yellow Vest protests, sparked by an ill-considered diesel tax, made clear that even small-time environment policy is asking for trouble when imposed or exacerbating inequalities, or seen to be hurting the non-urban and regional poor. The fact is that the emergency of the environment is upon us and the public is substantially aware. The question now is whether the green body politic, in its various forms, has the nous and sense of solidarity to seize the mantle, to give public concern effective, broad-based political expression. The EU elections reaffirmed the German Greens as the standard-bearers in environmental party politics. It will be fascinating to see how they now fare. Whether they have the power, the ambition and the realism to draw others to them, against the lobbies, the force of the status quo, and with the organising ethno-nationalists breathing down their necks. Is Jeremy Hunt entirely well? I hate to be so indelicate and intrusive. But its increasingly difficult not to fret about the foreign secretarys mental faculties. He might be absolutely fine, and nothing more worrying for a potential prime minister than monumentally dim. It is even possible, as charitably acknowledged below, that he is a brilliant long-term strategist. Independents 4 change candidate Clare Daly and Barry Andrews of Fianna Fail are deemed elected to Dublin Constituency of the European Elections at the RDS. Clare Daly has been elected as MEP while Fianna Fails Barry Andrews has taken the fourth cold storage seat in the Dublin constituency. Ms Daly was elected on a total of 87,770 votes while Mr Andrews was elected with a total of 68,952 on the 15th count of the European elections. The final two seats were filled after a dispute over the transfer of votes which resulted in the count being suspended on Monday night. It was decided on Tuesday to distribute the votes of Sinn Feins Lynn Boylan instead of automatically electing the last remaining candidates. Her transfer votes secured Ms Daly the third seat. The issue is significant because whoever took fourth place will face a wait to formally take their seat. The fourth seat in Dublin is one of two extras Ireland has been allocated as a result of the Brexit vote. Those candidates who take Irelands two additional seats at Brussels and Strasbourg will not be able to fill them until the UK actually leaves. Speaking after she was elected Ms Daly said: I hope to bring the same fighting ability that I demonstrate in the Dail (Irish Parliament). I really wanted the mandate of the Dublin electorate to be respected, so I was quite prepared if Lynn Boylans votes had put me out I would have lived with that. What I didnt want was sort of behind the scenes legal manoeuvring and stopping the electorate of Dublins mandate being recognised. The system was ran really well. It has been some 15 years since Fianna Fail had an elected MEP in the Dublin constituency. Mr Andrews said the result was brilliant and satisfying. We put in so much effort and one of the central parts of my strategy was try to close the gap between what the local election results might be in Dublin and the European elections, he added. Its a real endorsement of hard work and I think people are listening to us again. Expand Close Clare Daly speaking to the media (Niall Carson/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Clare Daly speaking to the media (Niall Carson/PA) I see Brexit as a disaster for this island and the relationship between the two islands and for Europe more widely. Ive been immersed in Brexit policy over the last two years and you dont have to study it to understand what negative impact it is on the island of Ireland. If Brexit happens Im ready to serve in the European parliament. Im not too sure what interim arrangements are going to be made but you get on with life. Green Party candidate Ciaran Cuffe took the first seat while Fine Gaels Frances Fitzgerald took the second seat. Following his election, Mr Cuffe hailed his win as an auspicious day for the Green Party in Ireland as he topped the poll with 63,849 votes. Ms Fitzgerald was elected on the 14th count after polling 59,067 first-preference votes. This is an auspicious day and a new beginning for the Irish Green PartyCiaran Cuffe Speaking after he was elected on the 13th count, Mr Cuffe said: Today and this weekend shows young people want to see change. They have spoken to their parents and grandparents, and the people have voted for an alternative to business as usual. I am really heartened by the result this evening but I am so heartened by the (election of) 48 Green Party councillors around the country. This is an auspicious day and a new beginning for the Irish Green Party. Expand Close Fine Gael candidate and former SDLP leader Mark Durkan lost out (Brian Lawless/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Fine Gael candidate and former SDLP leader Mark Durkan lost out (Brian Lawless/PA) Ms Fitzgerald, a former tanaiste, said she was absolutely delighted. Its a great vote. I think its very encouraging in the sense that it is support for the partys approach to Europe and how we have dealt with the Brexit issue over the last number of years, she said. I wanted to run for Europe because its a critical time for Ireland, (there are) huge changes with the UK pulling out. Its very challenging for Ireland and a lot of key decisions are going to be taken in the European Parliament. Her running mate, former SDLP leader Mark Durkan, was eliminated from the count on Monday. Mr Durkan said: Obviously I would have preferred to record a higher vote. There are issues that were pushing the vote for other parties in this election. While Fine Gaels vote increased here as opposed to the last European elections, its clear that a lot of people in the Fine Gael base felt very strongly that they wanted to see Frances returned and I picked that up on doorsteps. A man in his 40s has been shot dead in north Dublin. The victim was gunned down in the front garden of a house in the Kilbarron Avenue area of Coolock on Tuesday afternoon. Gardai said they believed that three men wearing balaclavas were involved in the attack, which happened at around 3.30pm. They fled the scene in a silver Toyota Avensis, which was found abandoned and on fire in the Castletymon Gardens area of Coolock around 15 minutes after the shooting. The mans body remained at the murder scene on Tuesday evening as forensic examinations were carried out. Examinations were also being carried out where the car was found. The shooting comes a week after two friends were shot dead in north Dublin. Sean Little and Jordan Davis were shot dead within 24 hours of each other. An incident room has been established at Ballymun Garda Station. Garda said they wanted to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of the Kilbarron Avenue or Castletymon Gardens areas between 3:15pm and 4pm on Tuesday. They are particular keen to source dashcam footage. Labour Senator Aodhan O Riordain called for a whole-of-government response to address the ongoing killing spree in the area. The latest murder on Dublins Northside demands a comprehensive response from government before the situation spirals completely out of control, he said. The template is already there from the North Inner City Mulvey Report. This process should immediately be driven by the minister for justice who should engage with local Gardai, Dublin City Council, local drugs task forces, residents groups and Northside Partnership. Communities are feeling abandoned by government as their children go to school walking past murder scenes. This is not normal. The government have an opportunity to seize the initiative and to set the agenda an agenda focused on community infrastructure, training and employment, youth development, education, drug treatment, housing and anti-poverty measures. I am calling on the minister to take the first step and commission a Mulvey-style report for Dublin 17 and surrounding areas. After visiting Kilmore, Labour councillor John Lyons demanded Garda Commissioner Drew Harris and the minister for justice visit the area to explain to concerned residents how they would deal with the escalating violence. There is a sense in the area that things are getting completely out of control; murders being committed in heavily residential areas in broad daylight, he said. The communities of Darndale and Coolock are reeling from this violence, the vast majority of families living in these areas are trying to live their lives, raise their families and just get on with life. Barry Andrews (centre) during the count of the Dublin Constituency (Niall Carson/PA) Fianna Fails Barry Andrews has requested a recount following a dispute over the transfer of votes in the Dublin constituency. Fine Gaels Frances Fitzgerald was elected following the distribution of Alex Whites transfer votes on the 14th count. Speaking on Tuesday morning, returning officer Fergus Gallagher said: Barry Andrews has requested what is known as a simple recount of count 14 and I will now proceed with that recount in accordance with his request. The count was suspended late on Monday night amid the dispute. Green Party candidate Ciaran Cuffe and Ms Fitzgerald had already been elected by that stage. Mr Andrews and Independents4Change Clare Daly are in line to claim the two remaining seats. Expand Close Clare Daly speaking to the media (Niall Carson/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Clare Daly speaking to the media (Niall Carson/PA) However, Ms Daly has requested the votes of Sinn Feins Lynn Boylan, who is set to lose her seat, are redistributed before the final declarations, as this could see her secure the third seat. The issue is significant because whoever comes in fourth will face a wait to formally take their seat. The fourth seat in Dublin is one of two extras Ireland has been allocated as a result of the Brexit vote. Those candidates who take Irelands two additional seats at Brussels and Strasbourg wll not be able to fill them until the UK actually leaves. Speaking on Monday night, Ms Daly said: Its the returning officers prerogative to suspend the count and he has chosen to do so, because I think they want to reassure themselves that the procedures theyre applying are consistent with the decisions they made earlier and consistent with the new legislation, anything more than that would be pure speculation. She confirmed that she has taken legal advice on the matter. Because the law is new they want to be sure and consistent with what theyve done earlier. Clearly they want time to think on that and not rush into it, she added. The issue arose when Fianna Fail swept in. Following his election, Mr Cuffe hailed his win as an auspicious day for the Green Party in Ireland as he topped the poll with 63,849 votes. Ms Fitzgerald was elected on the 14th count after polling 59,067 first-preference votes. This is an auspicious day and a new beginning for the Irish Green PartyCiaran Cuffe Speaking after he was elected on the 13th count, Mr Cuffe said: Today and this weekend shows young people want to see change. They have spoken to their parents and grandparents, and the people have voted for an alternative to business as usual. I am really heartened by the result this evening but I am so heartened by the (election of) 48 Green Party councillors around the country. This is an auspicious day and a new beginning for the Irish Green Party. Expand Close Fine Gael candidate and former SDLP leader Mark Durkan lost out (Brian Lawless/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Fine Gael candidate and former SDLP leader Mark Durkan lost out (Brian Lawless/PA) Ms Fitzgerald, a former tanaiste, said she was absolutely delighted. Its a great vote. I think its very encouraging in the sense that it is support for the partys approach to Europe and how we have dealt with the Brexit issue over the last number of years, she said. I wanted to run for Europe because its a critical time for Ireland, (there are) huge changes with the UK pulling out. Its very challenging for Ireland and a lot of key decisions are going to be taken in the European Parliament. Her running mate, former SDLP leader Mark Durkan, was eliminated from the count earlier on Monday. Mr Durkan, who ran as a Fine Gael candidate, failed to gain a seat in the Dublin constituency. Mr Durkan said: Obviously I would have preferred to record a higher vote. There are issues that were pushing the vote for other parties in this election. While Fine Gaels vote increased here as opposed to the last European elections, its clear that a lot of people in the Fine Gael base felt very strongly that they wanted to see Frances returned and I picked that up on doorsteps. Farmers face increased climate action pressure from the Government and EU in the wake of the European elections. The Government has already signalled it will seek to embrace the Green Party's environment agenda. And greater reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is expected to follow the surge of Green support which swept the continent in the European elections. The Greens are expected to look for a reduction in cattle numbers, more actions to improve biodiversity and increased afforestation as part of its political agenda. Further gains from Green candidates in Europe will see greater pressure to reform the CAP with more focus on the environment. EU Agriculture Commissioner, Phil Hogan, warned yesterday that farmers needed to be prepared for a "great leap forward" on climate action. "I would tell farmers not to be frightened by the initiatives to combat climate change but to engage with them," he told the Irish Rural Link annual conference in Athlone. Mr Hogan added that engagement with EU and Government climate action measures will result in enhanced income opportunities for farmers. "In the climate debate, rural areas are increasingly viewed as holding massive potential to provide solutions to the climate crisis," he said. "This is both correct and overdue. The reality is that we need to do more, and we need to do it faster." Mandatory actions Mr Hogan cited a study released by the European Commission yesterday that confirms that policy structures like CAP have improved their climate performance significantly. He said that in his plans for a reformed CAP, farmers and rural communities will be rewarded for their climate action. "A variety of mandatory and voluntary schemes and funds will be in place. The proper incentives need to be on offer if they (farmers) are to do this work on behalf of society as a whole," Mr Hogan told delegates. Eyebrows were raised when it emerged that not a single farmer in Midlands-North-West admitted to voting for the Green Party Euro candidate, Saoirse McHugh from Achill island. So, we drilled a little deeper into the RTE/TG4 exit poll around the weekend's local and European Parliament elections. The television stations had jobbed the survey company, Red C, to ask 3,230 voters at polling stations around the country. Looking at Ireland South Euro constituency, we again found that no farmer - not a one - owned up to voting for the Green Party candidate there, Senator Grace O'Sullivan from Waterford. When we looked at the third constituency, the city and county of Dublin, things took a slightly absurd turn. We found that one in seven, or 15pc, of farmer voters there admitted backing the Green Party poll-topper, Ciaran Cuffe. Dublin farmers is it? Are we talking window boxes or funny stuff under plastic and lights in the wardrobe? Well, no. Those of us who get out and about know that a big chunk of north Dublin is still agricultural and its horticulture still helps feed the metropolitan population. Another figure in the same table was a little more reassuring. It showed that Clare Daly, daughter of an army officer off the Curragh, whose background is as a trade union leader at Dublin Airport, also struck a chord with some Dublin farmers and got 22pc backing from them. Ms Daly appears to be a quintessentially urban politician. But then again her base is in north Dublin which is also the farming area. Few surprises The rest of the survey data relating to farmers contained few surprises. In Dublin, farmers gave 15pc apiece to Fianna Fail standard bearer Barry Andrews, and Fine Gael's Frances Fitzgerald. In the South, the quintessential GAA man off a farm in Kilcummin, near Killarney, Sean Kelly of Fine Gael, had 26pc farmer support. Billy Kelleher of Fianna Fail, also reared on a farm in Glanmire, near Cork city, got 14pc farmer backing, Fine Gael's Deirdre Clune, Cork city-based but solicitous of the farm vote, registered 14pc. Fianna Fail's Malcolm Byrne, from Gorey, got 11pc, and Independent Mick Wallace got 9pc. We needed no survey to know that Mairead McGuinness, late of this Farming Independent parish and once again poll-topping MEP for Midlands-North-West, was the farmers' first choice with 51pc saying they voted for her. We were left demanding a full explanation from the other half of the farming voters. Sinn Fein's Matt Carthy was next on 31pc farmer support and Independent Luke Ming Flanagan got 14pc. Perhaps emblematic of the election in that part of the world was a showing of just 6pc farmer support for Fianna Fail's Brendan Smith of Cavan. The likeable and talented former Agriculture Minister was clearly in the wrong race at the wrong time. Hopefully, he will have better days in politics. Of course, these surveys generally come with a certain health warning. Again, we probably did not need polling to know about farmer antipathy towards the Green Party. But the Greens are back - and they may well feature strongly in the next government. New man: Gabriel Makhlouf will take up his post in September after Philip Lane heads to Frankfurt in June to become Chief Economist at the European Central Bank. Photo: Vivek Prakash/Bloomberg The incoming head of the Central Bank of Ireland has been forced to call in the police after the New Zealand budget he was overseeing preparation of was leaked. New Zealands Treasury Secretary Gabriel Makhlouf was last month selected by Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe to succeed Philip Lane as Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland. Hell take up his post here in September, but in the meantime has been overseeing preparations for New Zealands first Well Being Budget, due to be unveiled on May 30, as the top civil servant in the equivalent to the Department of Finance. But opposition members of the New Zealand parliament released what they called key details from the budget in advance. New Zealands treasury department was deliberately hacked, Gabriel Makhlouf said. The treasury has gathered sufficient evidence to indicate that its systems have been deliberately and systematically hacked, Mr Makhlouf said in a statement. Security has now been tightened, he said. The Treasury has referred the matter to the Police on the advice of the National Cyber Security Centre, the statement from Gabriel Makhlouf said. The leak sparked a furore around the much-anticipated Well Being Budget that Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has promised would overhaul the approach to the nations accounts to focus on metrics beyond economic growth. Opposition National Party leader Simon Bridges defended releasing the budget details after the Treasury said it had been hacked. The National Party has acted entirely appropriately, Bridges said in a post on his official Twitter account. He added Finance Minister Grant Robertson has falsely smeared us to cover up his and the Treasurys incompetence. Minister Robertson said some details released by Mr Bridges on Tuesday were incorrect and that he had asked the National Party not to release any more in the wake of the hack. Bridges earlier said the governments budget would see defence spending go up sharply and double spending in forestry with an extra $138 million. International aid will also rise, Mr Bridges said. This has nothing to do with the governments wellbeing priorities, he said. The government said that some details were incorrect, without specifying which ones, and that the wellbeing initiatives were still to be revealed on Thursday. US hedge fund giant Citadel Capital has doubled down in its bet against Ryanair's shares, boosting its short position in the carrier to almost 1pc, or 110m, of the airline's stock. The position is almost twice the size of the short Citadel had on Ryanair at the beginning of April. It has steadily increased it in the past number of weeks. Citadel was founded by its chief executive, billionaire Ken Griffin. The company has about $30bn (26.8bn) of assets under management. When investors short a share, they are betting the share price will drop. They borrow the company's shares from other shareholders and can profit if the price falls by buying back shares at a lower price to return them to their original owner. But short positions can turn sour if the share price in the target company rises. Citadel's increased short position in Ryanair, at 0.95pc of the airline's shares, is confirmed by the Central Bank of Ireland. Short positions exceeding 0.5pc of a company's stock must be publicly disclosed under EU rules. Citadel first revealed on April 2 that it had taken a 0.56pc short position on Ryanair. It was the first time since the EU rules were introduced in 2012 that a short position in the airline had been disclosed. At that stage, Ryanair's shares were trading at 11.16. By the following, day Citadel had disclosed a 0.73pc short position in the airline's stock, a figure that hit 0.81pc on May 13 and 0.86pc on May 17, when the shares were at 10.80. Citadel increased its short position following the release of Ryanair's results last week. Ryanair, headed by CEO Michael O'Leary, said its profit tumbled 29pc to 1.02bn in the 12 months to the end of March, largely due to lower fares. Revenue for the period was 6pc higher at 7.6bn as Ryanair's passenger numbers rose 7pc to 139.1 million. Airlines in Europe are grappling with significant capacity in the market, coupled with high fuel prices. Mr O'Leary predicted again that those factors would result in more airline collapses in Europe, and ultimately, reduced supply. Other global investment giants, including BlackRock and Marshall Wace, have also taken short positions against European travel firms such as Easyjet, Thomas Cook an TUI. When it released its results, Ryanair's shares fell more than 5pc initially, despite the company announcing a 700m share buyback. The Irish Independent revealed during the week that the airline has also agreed a deal worth hundreds of millions of euro to the carrier with US planemaker Boeing over delivery delays for its 737 Max aircraft after the jets were grounded in March around the world following two deadly crashes. But Ryanair's shares have continued to trend lower. By mid-afternoon yesterday, they were down 1.2pc at 10.26, valuing the company at 11.6bn. Expansion costs at the social media intelligence and news agency established by former RTE presenter, Mark Little last contributed to Storyful recording losses of 9m. Storyful was purchased by Rupert Murdoch's News Corp for 18m in December 2013 and new abridged accounts for Storyful Ltd show that the firm's accumulated losses jumped by 9.03m from 15m to 24m in the 12 months to the end of June last. Expand Close Founder: Mark Little sold Storyful to News Corp for 18m in December 2013 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Founder: Mark Little sold Storyful to News Corp for 18m in December 2013 The firm's shareholder funds total 9m. The new accounts for Storyful Ltd show that it recorded a gross profit of 5.9m last year and this followed a gross profit of 9.6m for the prior 18 months. The 9m loss last year followed a loss of 9m in the prior 18-month period. The directors state that "the company continued to expand its operations and during the year, it made substantial investment in its product and technology departments". Numbers employed by the firm last year increased from 100 to 138 with staff costs totalling 6.7m. In the year under review, Newscorp invested 19m into the business and this February it ploughed in a further 5.5m. The 5.5m has been used to pay off debt owed to group undertakings. Today, Storyful has offices in Dublin, Sydney, London, Los Angeles and New York City and its counts Google, Facebook and Youtube, amongst its clients. Birthday wishes Call 281-422-8302 or email david.bloom@baytownsun.com to wish someone a happy birthday. We will print your birthday wish on Page 2 of The Sun. Happy Birthday Wishes Waterford-based engineering company STS Group is to be bought by Germany's Dussmann Group. STS has 700 employees across the globe and annual turnover last year was 150m. Founder Eddie Walsh was previously managing director and a minority shareholder in Suir Engineering, which was sold for 30m in 2007 to the Dutch PLC Imtech. STS provides engineering services to sectors including pharmaceuticals, medical devices and data centres in Ireland, Europe and the Middle East. Berlin-based Dussmann operates in sectors including healthcare, catering and facilities management. It had a 2.34bn turnover last year and 66,122 employees in 17 countries. The sale is expected to close in June. STS will remain an independent subsidiary within DTS and all staff and employees of STS will be unaffected by the sale, Dussmann said. US firm Brandes Investment Partners has cut its stake in Bulmers owner C&C again, reducing it to just over 6.9pc. The disposal of more shares in the Irish drinks maker comes less than a month after Brandes previously cut is holding in C&C. Stock exchange filings this morning confirm the latest reduction. At one stage in 2017, Brandes owned more than 12pc of the Irish drinks maker a peak reached in October that year. But its been steadily reducing its stake over the past year. In April last year, it cut it to just under 11pc from 11.8pc, and reduced it to slightly under 10pc in July. By December last year, it owned just over 9pc of the drinks maker. Its current stake in the company, whose brands also include Tennents lager, is worth just over 79m. Shares in C&C hit 3.57 last September, and fell to as low as 2.61 in December before recovering to their current level of 3.72. San Diego-headquartered Brandes Investment is controlled by US billionaire Charles Brandes. Brandes Investment Partners has its European HQ in Dublin and describes itself as a value investor. Revenue at C&C which also owns brands including Tennents and Five Lamps beer almost tripled to 1.57bn in its last financial year. The figure included just over 1bn in turnover for 11 months from the Matthew Clark and Bibendum distribution businesses acquired by C&C last year. Revenue at the core C&C drinks business was 564.4m, representing a 3.2pc organic uplift. Adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) at the core business was 101.7m a 1.4pc organic increase. Matthew Clark and Bibendum delivered combined adjusted EBITDA of 18.3m. A Westlife insider has poured cold water on reports that they're due to perform at Ed Sheeran's no-expense-spared wedding party. It was widely reported that the reformed manband were scheduled for a live performance at Sheeran toasted his marriage to Cherry Seaborn. However, a source close to the band has said that it's not true and the four chart-toppers have no plans to serenade Sheeran and his new bride. The Sing hitmaker is believed to have secretly married his college sweetheart last Christmas but it planning on having a bigger bash for his wide circle of family and friends at his Suffolk mansion this summer. But a source close to Westlife has said there is "no truth" to the much-publicised reports that he was going to have Shane Feehily and his bandmates performing 'Flying Without Wings' at the bash. "I don't know where this rumour is coming from but it's not true," the source said. Alongside ace producer Steve Mc, he collaborated with the Irish stars on their long-awaited new album, due for release in September, and wrote a total of four different tracks on it. Among the songs he penned was 'Hello, My Love', which was a huge hit for the lads and went to number two in the Irish charts. While the Irish foursome may well be attending his wedding bash in the UK, there's no plans for them to take to the stage and perform their most famous hit to date for him and his new bride. Last night saw Westlife bring the curtain down on their five-night sell out run in Belfast arena, where they went down a storm with their Twenty Tour. Video of the Day They will now play dates in Glasgow, Manchester and Leeds ahead of their big stadium gig in London's O2 arena in the middle of June. The chart-toppers will continue touring Britain before they play two monster gigs in Dublin at the start of July. Then it's on to start their tour of south-east Asia, where they have always had a massive fan base. Manager Louis Walsh has indicated that the guys could go on touring for at least another 10 years, such is the demand to see them performing live. He said they had "never sounded so well" and were all getting on like a house on fire together. A total of 61 playcentres and creches are threatened with closure due serious insurance premium hikes, Fianna Fails Dara Calleary has told the Dail. The Fianna Fail deputy leader cited a report in the Irish Independent about a long-established adventure centre in Lucan, Co Dublin, which faced a 25,000 public liability insurance hike. Mr Calleary said the managing director of Fort Lucan, Gillian Martin, had warned that insurance was limiting enjoyment and play options for children as they were forced to close a section of their centre. He warned the Government that nice words and pats on the back would not be enough to save thousands of jobs in hospitality, childcare and other sectors facing this problem. The Fianna Fail TD said a draft law from his party which would penalise those who brought spurious claims was languishing in the Dail pipeline. He said the Government backed off suggested plans to have a special garda unit dealing with insurance fraud. Replying for Government, Business Minister, Heather Humphreys, said they were keenly aware of the problem and a number of measures were being undertaken. She said the role of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board had been strengthened and other measures included more meetings between An Garda Siochana and the insurance industry. There is no one silver bullet here. But taken together all these measures will reduce the cost of claims, Ms Humphreys told the Dail. Ana Kriegel: Body was found in an abandoned house three days after she was reported missing A boy told Garda interviewers that he ran away when he realised his friend was raping Ana Kriegel, a trial heard. Boy B also said he saw Ana and Boy A "struggling" before she was "flipped" onto the ground. He said Boy A then climbed on top of Ana, started choking her and "slowly" taking off her clothes. Boy B told gardai he realised that Boy A was "raping" Ana and he "had to run". Expand Close Trial: Patric and Geraldine Kriegel, parents of Ana Kriegel, at court yesterday. Photo: Collins Courts / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Trial: Patric and Geraldine Kriegel, parents of Ana Kriegel, at court yesterday. Photo: Collins Courts He said Boy A had a "blank face" and was showing no emotion while Ana was crying and begging him to stop. The accused, who were aged 13 at the time, have pleaded not guilty before the Central Criminal Court to murdering Ana Kriegel at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road in Lucan on May 14, 2018. One of the boys, Boy A, has also denied a charge of aggravated sexual assault. Yesterday, the jury continued to watch video footage of interviews which gardai conducted with Boy B after he was arrested for a second time on suspicion of the murder of Ana Kriegel. The interviews took place at Lucan garda station on July 7, 2018. Present during interviews six and seven were Boy B, his mother, his solicitor Barry Powderly and Detective Garda Donal Daly and Detective Sergeant (now Inspector) Damien Gannon. Gardai told Boy B they had new information and new evidence and the questions they would be asking him were relevant to that. Gda Daly put it to Boy B he had told "numerous versions" and the only version he wanted was the truth. "Just the truth, [Boy B]," Gda Daly said. Boy B said he walked into the abandoned house, looked around, picked up a stick or white plank and then put it down. He walked back outside and Ana and Boy A walked into the house. He said Boy A then told him to leave. Boy B said he stood by the doorway and watched as Boy A "took her down and stripped her". Boy B said he then ran out of the house. Asked to describe exactly what he saw, Boy B said he saw Boy A on top of Ana, taking her clothes off. He said he saw Boy A's construction boots, black bottoms and black hoodie. Boy B said he could see Ana crying. He said he guessed that Boy A's backpack was in the corner. Boy B said he was standing there, staring, wondering what he should do. He could see Boy A choking Ana. He said they were both on the ground "struggling". Asked about Boy A's hoodie, Boy B said it was up and he couldn't really see Boy A's face, as he was perpendicular to where he was standing. Boy B said his brain realised what was happening. Boy A then turned his face and he had "this look on his face". Boy B said he couldn't describe the look. He was shown a photograph of a stick which was found near Ana's body, but he told detectives this was not the stick he picked up, as the one he picked up did not have red stains on it. Asked if he had touched the stick in the photograph, Boy B replied: "No." Boy B also described the condition of the rooms in the abandoned house, saying there was a lot of trash, rubbish and sticks lying around. Asked to describe Room 1, which is the room where Ana's body was later found, Boy B said he saw beer cans, rubbish, rocks, sticks, graffiti and planks. During the seventh interview, Gda Daly asked Boy B to take him by the hand and give him a guided tour of what he had seen. Boy B said he went into another room but he heard "shuffling" from the room Boy A and Ana had gone into. He said he went over to see what was happening. He stood at the door and saw Ana and Boy A. At first it looked like they were hugging. He couldn't see their faces. Both were struggling and then Boy A flipped her onto the ground. Boy B said Boy A climbed on top of Ana and started choking her with his right hand. He slowly took off her jumper, T-shirt and her pants. He said he then realised Boy A was raping Ana and he "had to run". Just as Boy A was about to take off Ana's bra, Boy B said Boy A looked up and that's when he [Boy B] ran. Asked if he took off any of Ana's clothes, Boy B said: "No." Asked if he went into the room, Boy B said: "I didn't." Boy B also said he did not see Ana with any injuries. The trial continues. Mairtin Manning arrives in court for a hearing in 2017 Picture: Arthur Carron Two men - including a grandson of former lord mayor of Dublin Christy Burke - have received sentences totalling 14 years at the Special Criminal Court after they were caught with four kilogrammes of the explosive TNT and a hand grenade in a densely populated area of the capital. The non-jury court heard that the Army Bomb Disposal Unit was called and 40 premises had to be evacuated after the men were intercepted by gardai. Declan McDermott (30) and Mairtin Manning (24) - Mr Burke's grandson - were both jailed for seven years. The two Dublin men pleaded guilty last month before the three-judge court. Former lord mayor Mr Burke was in court yesterday seated with the men's families and supporters. McDermott and Manning had acted as "couriers" and played an important role, commented presiding judge Mr Justice Tony Hunt. Furthermore, they were trusted by the organisers of these activities, he added. A general view of the Palais de Justice de Paris, where the trial of Ian Bailey will take place, who is accused of the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Photo: Steve Parsons/PA Wire The family of murdered French filmmaker Sophie Toscan du Plantier gathered in a Paris court yesterday for the start of a week-long trial which they hope will finally put the 22-year-old case to rest. The case against Manchester-born journalist Ian Bailey (62), who will not be present for the trial, was taken by eight of Ms du Plantier's immediate and extended family, including her son and her elderly parents. Mr Bailey has consistently denied the charges, and has not been prosecuted in Ireland. On the first day of trial, presiding judge Frederique Aline - the president of the court - read out the details of the brutal killing of Ms Toscan du Plantier who was found dead on December 23, 1996. The court heard she suffered multiple blows to the head and body with a blunt object, and that a breeze block was lying close to her body covered in bloodstains. The attack had been so violent that blood stains were found spattered up to a metre square around the body, and she was wearing only long johns, a T-shirt and walking boots without socks. Expand Close Journalist Ian Bailey is on trial in Paris in absentia accused of the murder of filmmaker Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Photo: Niall Carson/PA Wire / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Journalist Ian Bailey is on trial in Paris in absentia accused of the murder of filmmaker Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Photo: Niall Carson/PA Wire Judge Aline listed the many twists and turns of the case has taken over the years, including the testimony of Marie Farrell - a local woman who initially claimed she had seen Bailey walking towards the victim's home on the night of the killing, a claim she later retracted. The court heard how in the days after the killing, several witnesses said Bailey had scratches on his hands and forearms, which he claimed he had acquired while cutting down a Christmas tree. The first witness was private investigator Michel Larousse, who was tasked with giving evidence on the victim's personality after conducting interviews with her friends and family. He said Ms Toscan du Plantier was "very independent", adding "at times she wanted to be with people and there were moments she wanted to be on her own". Expand Close Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Photo: Family Handout/PA Wire / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Photo: Family Handout/PA Wire Mr Larousse said Ms Toscan du Plantier "wasn't afraid of much", even in situations that carried a risk. He gave the example of the time she had allowed a homeless person to sleep in her car, and the time she had invited another homeless man to have a meal with her. The court also heard evidence from French police officer Damien Roehrig, who made two trips to Schull in 2008 and 2011 to interview potential witnesses. He said: "The local gardai didn't have experience leading an investigation of this order. "Early evidence was wasted and it wasn't organised as it would have been if it had been led by police more used to this type of investigation. "The people capable of leading this type of investigation arrived much later." He added that the gardai had been under a lot of pressure to crack the case. Mr Roehrig said he had spoken to one witness who claimed that when he had asked Mr Bailey if he had killed the victim, Mr Bailey had replied: "Yes, of course - it was to advance my career as a journalist." Another allegedly claimed Bailey had told him: "I did it, I did it. I went too far." The police officer described a conversation he had had with a neighbour who claimed Bailey had described cracking the victim's skull with a rock. Members of the Gardai at the scene of a burned out car on Castletimon Gardens, Coolock, Dublin Photo: Gareth Chaney Collins Gardai investigate the shooting of a man at a house on Kilbarron Avenue in Coolock, Dublin Picture: Arthur Carron Gardai investigate the shooting of a man at a house on Kilbarron Avenue in Coolock, Dublin Picture: Arthur Carron Gardai investigate the shooting of a man at a house on Kilbarron Avenue in Coolock, Dublin Picture: Arthur Carron The shooting victim has been named locally as Hamid Sanambar (inset) FAMILIES living near the latest gangland shooting where a man was shot dead in broad daylight say it's like living in a war zone. The shooting victim, who has been named locally as Hamid Sanambar, (41) was shot in the head multiple times in the front garden of a house in the Kilbarron Avenue area of Coolock, north Dublin at around 3.30pm today. Early indications are that Sanambar was an associate of Sean Little, who was murdered last week. The shooting took place in the garden of murdered Little's home, where a gathering was taking place in his memory. Expand Close Hamid Sanambar Picture: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Hamid Sanambar Picture: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin Sanambar was spotted mourning at the scene of Little's murder in Walshetown near Balbriggan last Wednesday morning. He is believed to have been staying with criminal associates in the Priorswood area of north Dublin in recent weeks but his last known address was in Clonshaugh where he was living with a woman. Expand Close The car that was burnt out / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The car that was burnt out It's understood that gardai had been attempting to serve Sanambar with a fresh Garda Information Message (GIM) in relation to a threat to his life but were unable to locate him. He had previously been warned of a threat to his life last year. Gardai say three men wearing balaclavas were understood to have been involved in the incident and left the scene in a silver Toyota Avensis (04-D-71806). This vehicle was found abandoned and on fire in the Castletymon Gardens area of Coolock at approximately 3.45pm. Expand Close Members of the Gardai at the scene of a burned out car on Castletimon Gardens, Coolock, Dublin Photo: Gareth Chaney Collins / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Members of the Gardai at the scene of a burned out car on Castletimon Gardens, Coolock, Dublin Photo: Gareth Chaney Collins A woman living on Kilbarron Avenue was trembling with fear as she told Independent.ie how she saw three men pull up outside in a car wearing balaclavas. "I'm really scared," she said, before gardai escorted her into her home. Minutes later, Sanambar was lying critically injured in the front garden of the home. Little's parents have been hosting a steady stream of mourners in their home since their son was shot dead and gardai suspect there is a link between the shootings. A senior detective confirmed that the latest victim died of his injuries at the scene. A blue tent was erected over the body awaiting the arrival of the State pathologist as forensic investigators combed the area for evidence. A cordon was placed around shattered glass lying on the road just metres away from the murder scene while gardai conducted door-to-door inquiries. Expand Close Gardai investigate the shooting of a man at a house on Kilbarron Avenue in Coolock, Dublin Picture: Arthur Carron / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Gardai investigate the shooting of a man at a house on Kilbarron Avenue in Coolock, Dublin Picture: Arthur Carron Meanwhile, neighbours living in the area said they are being terrorised by ruthless gangs. A 42-year old mother-of-three who has lived in the area her entire life said she has never seen anything like it before. "It's absolutely horrific," she said. "It's like Beirut." She said two of her neighbours were almost run down as a car - believed to be the getaway car - sped past them. The driver and passengers were wearing balaclavas, she said. "The car flew by and just missed them," she said. Gardai this evening confirmed that a car was found burnt out on nearby Castletymon Rd., a short time after the shooting between 3:30 and 4pm,which they believe may be linked to the shooting. "It's terrible. Kids were going home from school," she said. Another neighbour, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, claimed that the area is being held hostage by gangsters. "It's crazy. There are kids all over the place," he said while out walking his 12-month niece in a buggy. "They have no respect at all." Another longtime resident of the area (45) said he heard the garda helicopter hovering overhead and was shocked to learn that a man had been shot nearby. "My heart was in my mouth when I saw it was so close." He condemned those who are behind the shootings. "They're idiots. Spring chickens are involved in this and it's going to be ongoing," he said. Fianna Fail TD Sean Haughey said action must be taken to get to grips with the spate of shootings on Dublin's northside. "Yet another shooting in North Dublin-this time in Kilmore West. Condemnation from the Minister for Justice is not enough. Gardai must do whatever it takes to stop this gangland feud." After visiting the Kilmore site, city councillor John Lyons called for the Garda Commissioner and Justice Minister to visit the area and explain what they are going to do to address the spate of shootings. "There is a sense in the area that things are getting completely out of control, murders being committed in heavily residential areas in broad daylight," he said. "The communities of Darndale and Coolock are reeling from this violence, the vast majority of families living in these areas are trying to live their lives, raise their families and just get on with life, They need to know that the powers that be have a strategy in place to address the rising violence, a plan in place to protect them," he added. The Office of the State Pathologist has been notified and a post mortem is due to take place tomorrow. An incident room has been established at Ballymun Garda Station. Gardai are appealing for anyone with information to contact them at Ballymun on 01 666 4400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station. A garda spokesman added: "Gardai are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who was in the vicinity of the Kilbarron Avenue or Castletymon Gardens areas of Coolock between 3.15pm and 4pm on 28/05/19, especially road users who may have dash cam footage." EDUCATE Together is taking direct action in the row over relationships and sexuality education (RSE) at one of its primary schools. The multi-denominational patron body is writing to all its schools to ask them to ensure that RSE is delivered in a way that is consistent with its ethos and free from religious bias. It is a response to a controversy at Castleknock Educate Together National School (CETNS), which has invited the Catholic marriage agency, Accord, to talk to fifth and sixth class pupils about relationships and sex education. It is the second successive year that a row has erupted between the school and parents over a similar invitation to Accord. Educate Together issued a statement shortly before a parents protest went ahead outside the school this evening. The protest was organised to coincide with an Accord information event for parents, which was cancelled yesterday, but the protest went ahead anyway. In a letter to parents on Monday night, school principal Aedin Ni Thuathail, in her capacity as secretary of the school board of management, said the parents information event was being deferred to allow the board to consider an alternative option for delivery of the classes, which had emerged since the invitation was issued to Accord. In its statement, Educate Together said it would like to stress that the contracting of external agencies by a school is a matter for the board of management of an individual school. It added: Educate Together as a school patron does not have the authority to require schools to deliver the RSE programme in any specific way, unless a motion is passed by the member schools of Educate Together at an annual general meeting. However, Educate Together believes that it is not appropriate for a religious-run organisation to deliver RSE in the context of an equality-based Educate Together school. To this end, Educate Together will be writing to all schools under its patronage to ask them to ensure that relationships and sexuality education is delivered in a way that is consistent with its ethos and free from religious bias. The statement noted that parents in a school, which was not named but is taken to be CETNS, had recently been in touch with its national office on this issue. Educate together takes this issue very seriously. The national office is currently looking at all options in its capacity as a school patron to support the school community involved. Earlier this year, the CETNS parent teacher association wrote to the school principal saying it was difficult to see how an organisation funded by the Catholic Church and with a clear religious ethos could ever have been deemed fit for purpose to deliver the RSE programme in an Educate Together school". The move to go ahead with the invitation infuriated some parents, who organised a petition, headed "Opposing Accord teaching RSE in Castleknock ET, and then organised the protest. An email seeking support for the protest and signed by parent Graeme Carter, stated: This will affect all our children in the long run, so it's not just for 5th and 6th class parents! My daughter is in Junior Infants, for example, but I'm not willing to just wait until she is directly impacted by this. It adds: This is about the parents of children making their voices heard within the school, and letting both the board and Educate Together know that secular instruction, in line with their stated ethos, is what we want for our children. If you don't speak, nobody will speak for you. In the past year, the 450-pupil school also came in for some criticism from Department of Education inspectors who identified a serious breakdown of trust in key relationships in the school. Inspectors found breakdowns of trust between the board and the parent-teacher association, the board and the in-school leadership team as well as within the in-school leadership team. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar (left) with Fine Gael candidate Frances Fitzgerald and Fine Gaels Alan Farrell (second right) at the count centre in the RDS, Dublin (PA) Fine Gael candidate Frances Fitzgerald with party colleague and health minister Simon Harris at the count centre in Dublin (Brian Lawless/PA) A legal row erupted at the European Election count centre in Dublin tonight as Barry Andrews and Clare Daly battle it out for the last certain seat and to avoid taking the extra cold storage seat created by Brexit. The Greens Ciaran Cuffe and former Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald were elected earlier this evening. However the real drama came late tonight as the final two seats were being decided. Ms Daly of Independents4Change is fourth in the poll after Mr Andrews of Fianna Fail and wanted the votes of Sinn Feins Lynn Boylan redistributed once she is eliminated. Normally counting stops after all candidates are deemed to be elected. However, Ms Daly felt Ms Boylans redistributed votes could push her from fourth place into third - relegating Fianna Fails Barry Andrews into fourth place. Fianna Fail has sought legal counsel on the issue while Ms Daly was in discussions with officials in the RDS count centre. The fourth MEP seat will only come into play once Britain leaves the EU - potentially some time this summer or as far away as October 31. Expand Close Fianna Fail European election candidate Barry Andrews. Photo: Conor McCabe / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Fianna Fail European election candidate Barry Andrews. Photo: Conor McCabe Outgoing MEP Ms Boylan secured less than half the number of first preferences in this election compared to when she topped the poll in 2014 and her transfers are now crucial in deciding third and fourth place. Read More Meanwhile, Mr Cuffe said it was clear the young people of Ireland want to see change as he heralded a new beginning for the Green Party after his election. Mr Cuffe said it was clear his party would have a strong hand in Europe following a spread of support across the continent for the green movement. He was elected on the 13th count at the RDS, finally passing the quota thanks to transfers from Fine Gaels Mark Durkan. While Mr Cuffe said the Greens going into Government was a question for another day, he said it was clear momentum was behind his party colleagues after they secured 48 seats in county and city councils up and down the country. I have seen good days and I have seen dark days and I am just so pleased that today is one of the good days and I look forward to building on that success. I am just really heartened by the result this evening but I am also heartened by the election of 48 Green Party councillors. In local authorities up and down the country we have a huge opportunity to play in transportation and planning issues but, more importantly, a platform as well to push the parties in Government to change their stance, their policies and to move on to considering climate change not as an add-on but as an integral part of the policies that are required. Ms Fitzgerald secured the second Dublin seat, making it over the line on the 14th count after securing 6,134 transfers following the elimination of Labours Alex White. She said Fine Gael had a strong vote in Dublin and said this was an endorsement of the partys handling of Brexit and recognition of the role it played in negotiations in Brussels. The count has been suspended in Dublin until 11am on Tuesday morning. It wouldn't be a count if there wasn't a row about procedure. Queries were raised about how things were being conducted at the RDS count centre for the Dublin European Elections. Nobody could see what was happening down at the far end of the room, complained one unimpressed insider, rightly enough. The count was suspended for an hour so that things could be sorted out. Stacks of cubbyholes were wheeled to a different location. The bundles of votes went too. Much better. Now we could see everything - all the better to note that nothing particularly exciting was happening. Aside from the thunder and lightning that rattled the roof. But the real storm was the tempest erupting in Fine Gael circles after Maria Bailey's humiliating radio interview earlier in the morning with Sean O'Rourke. It was all anyone was talking about - and yet nobody wanted to talk about it. "No, no, no, no," said Kate O'Connell quickly, when approached about another topic entirely, thinking she was about to be asked about her party colleague and, indeed, friend. By around 6.30pm, we were up to the 11th count as Mark Durkan, the former SDLP leader turned Fine Gael candidate, strolled through the door of the RDS. He was still in the running? He smiled tiredly. "Still in the count, not still in the running," he corrected. "Obviously I would have preferred to get a higher vote than I recorded," he said. "There were a number of factors obviously, pushing the vote to other parties in this election," he said, citing the loyalty to Frances Fitzgerald which he said he "fully understood". He wouldn't run in a general election here, he said. An hour later, his fate was sealed when he was eliminated in the 12th count, with 17,649 votes - a long way off the quota of 72,790. Fine Gael's cross-Border political experiment was officially over. He walked quietly away, accompanied by his daughter Dearbhail, wife Jackie and sister-in-law Angie. Shortly before 8pm, the Green Party's Ciaran Cuffe arrived, on the cusp of victory, with just 1,535 votes to go. In lucky count 13, he was in. "This is an auspicious day and a new beginning for the Irish Green Party," he said, beaming. "I think we've seen a big swing over the weekend," he said, suddenly remembering Maria's debacle as he mischievously added: "We've seen many swings over the weekend." There was a roar of laughter. "And swings can be dangerous things," he went on. His comic pause was pitch perfect. "Because particularly for smaller parties the tide can come in and it can go out again." Sinn Feins Lynn Boylan with party leader Mary Lou McDonald at the count in the RDS Independents 4 change candidate Clare Daly and Fianna Fail candidate Barry Andrews during the count of the Dublin Constituency for the European Parliamentary elections at the RDS in Dublin. European candidate Clare Daly TD during the European Election count in the RDS, Dublin Photo: Gareth Chaney, Collins Independents4Change candidate, Clare Daly, TD, and Fianna Fail candidate, Barry Andrews after they were both elected in the Dublin European Election Picture credit: Damien Eagers / INM Independents4Change candidate, Clare Daly, centre with her team after she won the third MEP seat Dublin at Simmonscourt, RDS Picture credit: Damien Eagers / INM Independents4Change candidate, Clare Daly, TD, and Fianna Fail candidate, Barry Andrews smile after they were both elected in the Dublin European Elections. Picture credit: Damien Eagers / INM Independent TD Clare Daly has won Dublins third seat in the European Parliament after the counting of votes finished at the RDS count centre. The seat had been the subject of a legal wrangle between her and Fianna Fails Barry Andrews last night and this morning as the transfer and redistribution of votes entered the final stages. The row centred on the transfer of votes from Sinn Feins Lynn Boylan who was eliminated today. Dublin was originally a three seat constituency but will get a fourth seat in the European Parliament after Britain leaves the EU. Normally transfers from the final elimination do not come into play as the remaining candidates are deemed elected. However, the so-called cold storage seat, which will now go to Mr Andrews, only comes into play once Brexit happens potentially some time this summer or as far away as October 31. Returning officer Fergus Gallagher eventually decided to redistribute Ms Boylans votes after her elimination. This made it possible to determine a final count for each candidate using all the available votes. Clare Daly described herself as gobsmacked after being elected as an MEP for Dublin. She promised to use her voice in Brussels in the same way as she has in Dublin . The now outgoing TD said she would be a speaker out for change and rattle the cages of those in authority. Afterwards, Mr Andrews reflected on the end of a very competitive campaign, thanking his staff and his wife Sinead. I am really honoured to have won a seat back in the national capital for Fianna Fail in the capital for the first time in 15 years, he said. I want to congratulate Clare for running a fair and robust campaign." More to follow... Clare Daly, Independents4Change and Barry Andrews, Fianna Fail, during the special European Election Floating Voter Show from Jameson Distillery Bow Street last week (Photo: Kyran O'Brien) SITTING TD Clare Daly is on course to secure the direct flight to Brussels amid recounts and legal rows in Dublin. While Fianna Fail is refusing to rule out a legal challenge to the way the counting process has been handled, it seems almost certain that Ms Daly has an adequate lead over Barry Andrews. Arriving at the RDS this afternoon, Mr Barry said it was "far too early" to rule a legal challenge in or out. The row centres on the transfer of votes from Sinn Feins Lynn Boylan who has been eliminated. Normally transfers from the final elimination do not come into play as the remaining candidates are deemed elected. However, the fourth successful candidate in Dublin will not actually become an MEP until the UK leaves the EU. Mr Andrews said he sought a recount of transfers from Labours Alex White "out of an abundance of caution". "Its better to do it than have to worry about it subsequently," he said. The former minister appeared to accept that he will win the cold storage seat, saying he would "ideally" like to go to Brussels "straight away". But he added that he is "happy" Fianna Fail will have a European seat for the Dublin constituency again after an 10 year absence. Speaking after the result of the 15th count was announced Ms Daly was confident she would hold on to the third seat and Ms Boylans votes were to be redistributed after her elimination. "This is the situation we were in last night, so we were aware of that. We are glad that decision was maintained," she said. "I think I will maintain the advantage and maintain the third seat." If she holds the third seat Mr Andrews will take up the 'cold storage' Brexit seat. "I was always happy with the process. We werent the ones who questioned any of it. We were happy with the process. I think the count has been carried out excellently, efficiently and very well so, we will see what happens. "We dont know what way the outcome of the votes will be but at least it has been done fairly and transparently and I will live with whatever that result is." Their comments come after a legal row erupted at the European Election count centre in Dublin last night as Barry Andrews and Clare Daly battled it out for the last certain seat and to avoid taking the extra "cold storage" seat created by Brexit. The Green's Ciaran Cuffe and former Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald were elected earlier in the evening. However the real drama came late last night as the final two seats were being decided. Ms Daly of Independents4Change was fourth last night behind Mr Andrews of Fianna Fail and wanted the votes of Sinn Fein's Lynn Boylan redistributed once she is eliminated. Normally counting stops after all candidates are deemed to be elected. However, Ms Daly felt Ms Boylan's redistributed votes could push her from fourth place into third - relegating Fianna Fail's Barry Andrews into fourth place. Fianna Fail sought legal counsel on the issue while Ms Daly was in discussions with officials in the RDS count centre. The count was suspended last night. Amid legal wrangling in the RDS, count staff have now begun going through the Labour candidates 22,205 again. Mr Andrews got just over 3,500 transfers from Mr White but party figures are hoping this could be higher in a recount. However, it seems almost certain that Independents4Change TD Clare Daly will eventually secure the third MEP seat in Dublin. Sources have indicated to Independent.ie that she passes out the Fianna Fail man once Social Democrat councillor Gary Gannon is eliminated and his votes transferred. Mr Gannons votes have already been counted but no announcement has been made due to confusion over the process. Both Fianna Fail and Ms Daly have brought legal representation to the count centre. The fourth MEP seat will only come into play once Britain leaves the EU - potentially some time this summer or as far away as October 31. Outgoing MEP Ms Boylan secured less than half the number of first preferences in this election compared to when she topped the poll in 2014 and her transfers are now crucial in deciding third and fourth place. Meanwhile Mr Cuffe said it was clear the young people of Ireland want to see change as he heralded "a new beginning" for the Green Party. Mr Cuffe said it was clear his party would have a strong hand in Europe following a spread of support across the continent for the green movement. He was elected on the 13th count at the RDS, finally passing the quota thanks to transfers from Fine Gael's Mark Durkan. While Mr Cuffe said the Greens going into Government was "a question for another day", he said it was clear momentum was behind his party colleagues after they secured 48 seats in county and city councils up and down the country. "I have seen good days and I have seen dark days and I am just so pleased that today is one of the good days and I look forward to building on that success. I am just really heartened by the result this evening but I am also heartened by the election of 48 Green Party councillors. "In local authorities up and down the country we have a huge opportunity to play in transportation and planning issues but, more importantly, a platform as well to push the parties in Government to change their stance, their policies and to move on to considering climate change - not as an add-on but as an integral part of the policies that are required." Ms Fitzgerald secured the second Dublin seat, making it over the line on the 14th count after securing 6,134 transfers following the elimination of Labour's Alex White. She said Fine Gael had a strong vote in Dublin and said this was an endorsement of the party's handling of Brexit and recognition of the role it played in negotiations in Brussels. A legal row erupted at the European Election count centre in Dublin last night as Barry Andrews and Clare Daly battled it out for the last certain seat and to avoid taking the extra "cold storage" seat created by Brexit. The Green's Ciaran Cuffe and former Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald were elected earlier in the evening. However the real drama came late last night as the final two seats were being decided. Ms Daly of Independents4Change was fourth last night behind Mr Andrews of Fianna Fail and wanted the votes of Sinn Fein's Lynn Boylan redistributed once she is eliminated. Normally counting stops after all candidates are deemed to be elected. However, Ms Daly felt Ms Boylan's redistributed votes could push her from fourth place into third - relegating Fianna Fail's Barry Andrews into fourth place. Fianna Fail sought legal counsel on the issue while Ms Daly was in discussions with officials in the RDS count centre. The count was suspended last night and will resume at 11am today The fourth MEP seat will only come into play once Britain leaves the EU - potentially some time this summer or as far away as October 31. Outgoing MEP Ms Boylan secured less than half the number of first preferences in this election compared to when she topped the poll in 2014 and her transfers are now crucial in deciding third and fourth place. Meanwhile Mr Cuffe said it was clear the young people of Ireland want to see change as he heralded "a new beginning" for the Green Party. Mr Cuffe said it was clear his party would have a strong hand in Europe following a spread of support across the continent for the green movement. He was elected on the 13th count at the RDS, finally passing the quota thanks to transfers from Fine Gael's Mark Durkan. While Mr Cuffe said the Greens going into Government was "a question for another day", he said it was clear momentum was behind his party colleagues after they secured 48 seats in county and city councils up and down the country. "I have seen good days and I have seen dark days and I am just so pleased that today is one of the good days and I look forward to building on that success. I am just really heartened by the result this evening but I am also heartened by the election of 48 Green Party councillors. "In local authorities up and down the country we have a huge opportunity to play in transportation and planning issues but, more importantly, a platform as well to push the parties in Government to change their stance, their policies and to move on to considering climate change - not as an add-on but as an integral part of the policies that are required." Ms Fitzgerald secured the second Dublin seat, making it over the line on the 14th count after securing 6,134 transfers following the elimination of Labour's Alex White. She said Fine Gael had a strong vote in Dublin and said this was an endorsement of the party's handling of Brexit and recognition of the role it played in negotiations in Brussels. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald faces another headache as her party's Border region European Election candidate admitted he is in a desperate battle to keep his seat. Matt Carthy assessed his chances of staying in Brussels saying: "In realistic terms, we're going to be fighting for the last seat." With counting in Castlebar expected to last until tomorrow and possibly Thursday he said it could come down to "the smallest of margins". Sitting Fine Gael MEP Mairead McGuinness stormed to victory in Midlands-North-West, topping the poll and being elected on the first count with a huge vote of 134,630. Her running mate, former Rose of Tralee Maria Walsh, was on 64,500 votes and in with a shot of taking a second seat for Fine Gael. Such a result would be one of the few positives from a lacklustre election season for Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. Ms Walsh got a boost of just over 6,000 transfers from Ms McGuinness in the second count, bringing her to 70,536. Independent Luke 'Ming' Flanagan is in a stronger position to hold on to his seat as he came second in the first count with a vote of 85,034. And there is a furious scrap for the fourth seat with Mr Carthy, controversial ex-presidential candidate Peter Casey, and the Green Party's Saoirse McHugh all still in contention. Ms McHugh's prospect of election diminished as her 51,019 first preference result fell short of her predicted support in the RTE exit poll. Last night she said she was "overwhelmed" at the vote she got but said: "I'm not expecting to get a seat." Sinn Fein, meanwhile, has had a dismal showing in the local elections and its European seats in Midlands-North-West and Dublin are at risk. Mr Carthy conceded that the party will be "in trouble" if the performance is replicated in the next general election. He got 77,619 first preferences, but he said he is in a "battle for transfers" and is "more hopeful than confident" he will be in the mix for the final seat. Fianna Fail's two-candidate strategy in the constituency failed for the second European Election in a row. Cavan-Monaghan TD Brendan Smith, who got 42,814 first preferences, said the party will examine what went wrong when the count is over. He effectively conceded he won't win a seat. Criticised: Maria Baileys radio interview was described as ill-judged in tone and temperament by Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan. Photo: Steve Humphreys The hotel sued by Fine Gael TD Maria Bailey over a fall from a swing decided to defend the case after viewing CCTV footage. Video evidence from The Dean hotel in Dublin was set to feature in the case if it had gone to trial, the Irish Independent has learned. The revelation comes as some of the focus of the controversy shifted to Culture Minister Josepha Madigan after Ms Bailey refused to say during a radio interview yesterday if she received legal advice from her party colleague. The minister's former legal firm represented Ms Bailey in the now abandoned case. Ms Bailey has confirmed that she had a beer in her hand and that she was reaching for her friend's bottle of wine when she fell from the swing - details not included in her indorsement of claim document filed in court. CCTV was a key factor in the hotel's decision to defend the claim. In defence papers, it alleged Ms Bailey had items in each hand, restricting her ability to balance or hold rope grips properly. The hotel was not commenting on the matter yesterday as, although Ms Bailey has said she is dropping the case, a notice of discontinuance has yet to be issued. During a radio interview, the under-fire TD refused to reveal if Ms Madigan had given her legal advice before she lodged the personal injury claim. At the time of the incident in 2015, both were Fine Gael councillors on Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. Ms Madigan has so far refused to reveal if she personally provided legal advice to her party colleague. The minister's advisers have said she cannot comment for client confidentially reasons, but they have not clarified if this means Ms Madigan worked directly on the case. Fianna Fail frontbench TD Niall Collins called on the minister to publicly address whether or not she was involved. "It serves no purpose to drag this whole sorry episode out further," he said Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is due to meet Ms Bailey this week to discuss the fall-out from the controversy, while the matter may also be referred to Fine Gael's national executive where disciplinary action could be initiated. Sources close to Mr Varadkar said he has to "give the situation further thought" before deciding what action to take. Last night, one member of the national executive said Ms Bailey should "get the door". In an astonishing appearance yesterday on RTE's 'Today with Sean O'Rourke', Ms Bailey criticised the reporting of the case over the past week and attempted to justify her action against the hotel. She described the media as "judge, jury and executioner", claimed her privacy had been invaded and that "humanity has been crossed". She was accompanied at RTE by experienced public relations advisor Paul Allen, but her own party was unaware she was doing the interview. Ms Bailey insisted she only wanted her medical expenses of between 6,000 and 7,000 paid and was not looking for any extra damages. This is despite the fact her indorsement of claim stated she was seeking damages for personal injury, loss, damage and inconvenience in addition to her medical costs. The circuit court, where she took the case, can award up to 60,000 in personal injury matters. Her comments did not go down well in Government, with some Cabinet members privately describing the interview as "a car crash". Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan said the interview was "ill-judged in both tone and content", while Health Minister Simon Harris said her defence of the compensation claim was "unfortunate". "I think when you withdraw a claim that in and of itself is an acknowledgement of the fact that perhaps that claim shouldn't have proceeded. But the interview still seemed to be in the space of blaming lots of other people," he said. The Irish Independent revealed last Tuesday that Ms Bailey was claiming the hotel was negligent because the swing was "unsupervised" and there were no signs to instruct patrons how to safely use it. In the RTE interview, Ms Bailey said she decided the same day to withdraw the case because she didn't want it to be a distraction and not because she had done anything wrong. However, she postponed announcing this until Saturday as she was advised it would be seen as cynical to do so in the week of the elections. Her decision to withdraw the case was announced on Saturday, the same day the Irish Independent revealed a key claim made in the TD's indorsement of claim was inaccurate. It stated that because of her injuries, Ms Bailey was unable to run for three months. However, a posting on her own social media account revealed she took part in 'The Bay 10K' race in Dun Laoghaire just three weeks after the incident. Sinn Fein didn't get much negativity on the doorsteps, people "just couldn't be bothered". That was the very honest assessment of its MEP candidate in Dublin, Lynn Boylan, who is worried about where the party is going. There can be no papering over the cracks here. Fine Gael may have failed to find a 'Leo Leap', but it held its own. However, since Mary Lou McDonald took over at the helm of Sinn Fein, the party has nosedived. Boylan's analysis suggests it was somewhat irrelevant in an election where the hot topics were Brexit and housing. That must be deeply concerning for Ms McDonald. Sinn Fein has always focused on the angst of voters, but people just aren't angry enough right now. On housing, the party has hammered the Government. Last September it risked forcing a general election by placing a motion of no confidence in Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy. The minister survived because Fianna Fail abstained from the vote, which many believe was actually the whole idea again. Bash the Government and embarrass Fianna Fail. Yet the constant attacks on Mr Murphy didn't register with the electorate. Will Sinn Fein change tack? It seems unlikely. Constructive opposition isn't exactly the party's forte in the Dail. The Sinn Fein vote halved in Dublin and suffered huge falls in Cork, Limerick and Galway. In Ms McDonald's backyard, Cabra-Glasnevin, the party is left with just one councillor. It's a similar story in the north inner city. Meanwhile, the Taoiseach last night boasted about having the largest number of seats across the four Dublin local authorities, with 36 seats. Fianna Fail has 34. The Sinn Fein post-mortem on Brexit will be even more interesting. Mary Lou McDonald has used the crisis to try to beef up her credentials with the Northern voters. While most people were focused on the immediate need to maintain an open Border, she has relentlessly exploited the situation to put a Border poll on the agenda. The RTE exit poll suggests the vast majority of people in the Republic favour a united Ireland. However, there is no national rush for it to happen. Sinn Fein lost substantial numbers of seats in Border counties, including Louth, Cavan and Monaghan. It's possible many voters in those areas felt Fine Gael has represented them well on Brexit. Whether they love or hate the Government, it's hard to deny that the backstop is an achievement. What happens next is another story. MEP Matt Carthy, who is in a battle for his seat in the Midlands-North West constituency, sat down with his campaign team on Thursday night to look back on the campaign. He "genuinely" feels they couldn't have done anything differently. "I can't point to any particular issue that is the reason why, so we're going to have to do an awful lot of analysis of the reasons why," he said. But there's no doubting it was a lacklustre campaign. Compared with the other main parties, Sinn Fein had fewer media events. The launch of its European manifesto was poorly attended by journalists. And last Thursday, when the leaders of Fine Gael, Fianna Fail, Labour and the Greens had journalists hopping all over Dublin for final updates, Sinn Fein was nowhere to be seen. It's possible it wanted to avoid awkward questions about kangaroo courts but brazened that stuff out before. Ms McDonald says "the buck" stops with her. No matter how bad things got, they never turned on Gerry Adams. Will she be as lucky? Celebrating: Gerry Adams (right) posted this image on Twitter of himself with Pearse McGeough (centre) Former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams has celebrated the victory of a candidate who was accused of being involved in the organising of a 'kangaroo court'. He posted a photograph of himself and councillor Pearse McGeough on social media after he won re-election to Louth County Council. Abuse victim Paudie McGahon has accused Sinn Fein and the IRA of seeking to cover up what happened to him. He and a second victim were raped as children by alleged IRA member Seamus Marley, who has been jailed for seven years. Mr McGahon (44) waived his anonymity to speak out about what he believes was an attempt to protect his attacker by people associated with Sinn Fein and the IRA. He claims an IRA kangaroo court was convened in 2002 after the victims sought help from Mr McGeough. Mr McGeough denies being involved in a kangaroo court. He has insisted Sinn Fein's advice at the time was to bring the allegations of abuse to gardai and added that "as adults, that decision was for the victims". Mr McGeough said the testimony of the victims in the case was harrowing and he also commended them for pursing the matter. He was first elected to Louth County Council in 2004. He got 1,007 votes in the election on Friday. Sinn Fein also hailed Mr McGeough's victory on Twitter, posting about how he had been re-elected to the Ardee ward and adding: "Comhghairdeas!" Mr McGahon has called for an investigation into the alleged Sinn Fein and IRA attempted cover-up of his abuse. Last week Mr Adams said it was clear that Mr McGahon had suffered "dreadful abuse" but added: "Sinn Fein did not try to prevent the abuse being reported to An Garda Siochana." Joy: Former Sinn Fein activist Noeleen Reilly celebrates her election in the Ballymun-Finglas electoral area. Photo: Steve Humphreys Six former Sinn Fein councillors who had disputes with the party have been re-elected as Independents. The party struggled to deal with a string of internal rows in the last five years and more than 15 councillors and other public representatives had either quit or been expelled. Sinn Fein has had a poor local election, losing many of the seats it picked up in 2014. One ex-Sinn Fein councillor, Noeleen Reilly, got more than 1,700 votes in Dublin City Council's Ballymun-Finglas ward and said she was "delighted" to be re-elected. She resigned from Sinn Fein last year after being suspended by the party, which claimed she had orchestrated a social media bullying campaign against the party. Ms Reilly rejected this and alleged she was bullied within the party and Sinn Fein ignored her complaints. Last night she said: "The last five years were very challenging but I've put it all to bed." She argued that the voters in her area endorsed her "positive campaign" and were "turned off" by Sinn Fein. She said she hoped her former party had "learned their lessons". Tipperary councillor Seamus 'Seamie' Morris quit the party in November 2017 amid claims he was subjected to "unfounded and untruthful allegations". He was re-elected in the Nenagh ward. Mr Morris said he was "practically destroyed" by his alleged experience in Sinn Fein and "it took me a long time to pick myself up". He said he was not surprised by the party's poor local election, claiming "they're drifting". He added: "I'm surprised at how Mary Lou McDonald hasn't been able to turn the ship around." Mr Morris said he had a "good team" around him. Wicklow councillors Gerry O'Neill, John Snell and Oliver O'Brien were expelled from Sinn Fein in 2017 after an internal dispute. Both Mr O'Neill and Mr Snell were re-elected. Mr O'Brien was unsuccessful as an Aontu candidate. Mr O'Neill got more than 1,800 votes. He said he had been a member of Sinn Fein for 47 years and was disappointed at his alleged treatment by the party. He claimed the people of Wicklow had seen issues with Sinn Fein and "they gave their verdict on Friday". Galway County Councillor Gabe Cronnelly resigned in December 2017 due to "unrest" over how Sinn Fein deals with "unethical behaviour". It came after Senator Trevor O Clochartaigh left the party, accusing party leadership of ignoring misconduct by local rival Sinn Fein members. Sinn Fein rejected this. Mr Cronnelly said he decided to leave at the same time as Mr O Clochartaigh. The Galway councillor said that, as an Independent, his vote was up 30pc in Friday's election. "I'm doing my representation my way now and it's being seen on the doors. I don't begrudge Sinn Fein any vote or anything but I have a mandate from the people as an Independent now," he said. Carlow councillor John Cassin quit Sinn Fein in February in a reported row over local election strategy. He was re-elected as an Independent on Friday. Senior Sinn Fein figures including Ms McDonald have repeatedly denied there is a culture of bullying in the party. She was asked about internal rows on KCLR radio last week. Ms McDonald said she wanted Sinn Fein to be a "happy place for people to engage in politics and activism". She said it was a "human organisation" and people fell out and there were political tensions or rivalries. She insisted the idea its membership was constantly fighting was untrue. "I accept that there have been some instances in which there were fallings-out and I regret every single one of them," she said. But she argued it was "not unique to Sinn Fein". New Labour councillor Ciara Galvin who campaigned with daugher Eabha won in Celbridge, Co Kildare With all the talk of the Green Wave, it was easy to overlook the fact that the tide also came in for women in the local elections. Out of the 560 female candidates who ran in all areas of the country, more than 200 have been elected - with the possibility of more to come. It still accounts for only 23pc of the candidates elected but it is a positive sign for the future. Going into the weekend's election, all 19 sitting councillors in Co Offaly were men. But change is afoot after Social Democrats candidate Clare Claffey was elected in Birr while the Greens' Pippa Hackett secured a seat in Edenderry. "Eight of us ran and two of us got in so at least we have some balance now. "We didn't have that at all before," Ms Claffey said, adding: "We would have liked more but two is better than none. "It was hard for us because we were up against sitting councillors. "They were looking to retain their seats so the onus was on us to do something. We weren't well known, they had a profile and we didn't. But I am happy," she said. Former Tanaiste Joan Burton said it has been a very positive election for her party with women accounting for around 40pc of successful candidates. "There was a time when women often ran as second or even third candidates where they were on the ticket but their realistic hopes of being elected weren't that high -they were basically tokens," she said. "What's happened now is that we've seen, in the Labour Party certainly, a string of strong young women candidates coming forward - I'm thinking of Ciara Galvin in Celbridge with her baby in the buggy campaigning in the main street and urging people to register to vote." But much needs to be done at national level, with around 22pc of seats in the Dail held by women, she said, pointing out that a woman had never been appointed Minister for Finance, Foreign Affairs or Defence. Independent Senator Alice Mary Higgins said the political system was still stacked against women and must be changed. "The issues still stand," she said, adding: "The big question is retention. "We don't have equality yet. We're kind of beginning to tilt towards a sea-change, though." She believes women encourage more joined-up thinking which builds a more accurate picture of society, meaning spaces are designed more effectively and money is spent in a better manner. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald TD arrives at the counts in the RDS. SF TDs, especially those based in Dublin, will be doing some soul searching in the aftermath of the local election drubbing the party received. Photo: Gareth Chaney, Collins By now, the vast majority of votes have been counted in the local elections. The winners are celebrating and the losers are nursing their electoral wounds. The coming days will see party strategists and number crunchers pore over the results to establish where the fault lines lie ahead of the next election. The overarching national results will be put to the side and the minutiae of each ballot cast will be reviewed. Local elections serve as a bellwether for general elections and results mean as much, if not more, to TDs as they do to councillors. Sinn Fein TDs, especially those based in Dublin, will be doing some soul-searching in the aftermath of the local election drubbing the party received. It can only really take comfort from its performance in Waterford, where David Cullinane is based, and Donegal, which is Pearse Doherty's constituency. Every other TD should be concerned about keeping their seat. Fianna Fail had a good day at the polls on Friday but there were a few warning signs for the party in certain areas of the country. Take Wicklow for example where, in Fianna Fail's health spokesperson Stephen Donnelly's heartland of Greystones, the party only won a single seat despite running three. One of those candidates to lose out was Mr Donnelly's own parliamentary assistant Elaine Willis. Even more worrying for the TD was the vote secured by his former Social Democrats colleague Jennifer Whitmore, who topped the poll in the electoral area. Over in Cavan, Fianna Fail's arts spokesperson Niamh Smyth will have noted with some apprehension the vote of former party member Sarah O'Reilly, who topped the poll in the Bailieborough-Cootehill area for Aontu. The two women were once close political allies but Ms O'Reilly's defection to Peadar Toibin's party could set up a general election showdown. There were also significant results for Fine Gael, especially in the Dublin North West constituency. Fine Gael TD Noel Rock knew he was in a battle to save his Dail seat after changes to electoral boundaries saw him lose key areas. And he will not be heartened by the poll-topping result of his Fianna Fail constituency rival Paul McAuliffe, who secured 2,300 first preference votes in the key Ballymun-Finglas electoral battleground. Minister of State Brendan Griffin will also be concerned to see Fine Gael lose councillors in his native Kerry, which was one the very few councils where the party lost seats. It is unlikely to cost Mr Griffin his seat in the next election as he is the only Fine Gael TD for the entire county. However, it does not bode well for his chance of bringing in a running mate. Transport Minister and de-facto Independent Alliance leader Shane Ross will also be questioning his political strategy after losing two key allies on Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. Councillor Kevin Daly and Seamus O'Neill both lost their seats. Mr Daly is best known for driving a car with a Santa Claus sleigh on the roof, promoting himself and Mr Ross. A patient endured the nightmare of hearing a loud surgical drill as he was on the theatre table during an operation on his spine. The disturbing incident, which happened in University Hospital Limerick, is revealed in the annual report of Ombudsman Peter Tyndall. The male patient was having the operation under local anaesthetic and was awake during the procedure. He should have been offered earphones playing music to drown out the noise but this did not happen. In response, the hospital apologised and said it had since introduced procedures to ensure that offers of disposable earphones were made to every patient and that this was documented. The Ombudsman received 3,300 complaints last year - a rise of 11pc over 2017. The largest number of grievances related to Government departments followed by local authorities, health and social services. Another case revealed how a single word left out of a doctor's letter led to a man wrongly believing he had suffered a stroke. He initially believed he had suffered from a stroke and had a brain scan at Tallaght Hospital. He was told there was no evidence of a stroke and he asked for a second opinion from Beaumont Hospital. He was told by Beaumont Hospital the scans showed some evidence but that it could not confirm whether he had suffered a stroke. The Ombudsman discovered there was a typing error in the letter to the man and it should have read that the scans did "not" suggest that there had been a stroke. The hospital apologised to the man and explained how the mistake occurred. Meanwhile, the annual report of Ombudsman for Children Niall Muldoon warns today that as the "Government has more money, our most vulnerable children are not benefiting". His office received 1,622 complaints last year on behalf of children. Access to education for those with additional needs and bullying are still problems for children, and there continues to be problems with education for children who are homeless or children who are in residential mental health facilities. "There has been an increase this year in health complaints relating to waiting lists, and complaints on services for children with mental health issues or disabilities," he said. A West Cork candidate has been elected by the skin of her teeth - taking the final seat in her constituency by a single vote after two recounts. Social Democrat Holly McKeever Cairns (29) pipped Independent candidate Finbar Harrington by a vote after two recounts in the Bantry local electoral area. "One vote, every vote counts. You couldn't write it," Ms McKeever Cairns told Independent.ie Following the first count on Monday night it was announced that Mr Harrington had won the seat by a single vote - but Ms McKeever Cairns called for a recount. That evening a closed door meeting between the candidates and the Returning Officer Maurice Manning found a number of invalid votes had been included in the first count. Five invalid ballots had been included in the count. The quota was reduced by one to 2,308 votes. Mr Harrington's total of first preference votes fell by one while Ms McKeever Cairn's total rose by two. By the sixth count both candidates were running neck and neck for the final seat. After the first recount the tables had turned and Ms McKeever Cairns had won by a single vote. Mr Harrington then sought a recount which was completed just before 9pm tonight. Read More Ms McKeever Cairns described the final moments before she pipped her rival as "very tense" particularly when the last thing to do was to scrutinise the votes. "I do feel tired because there were so many counts," she said. "It's difficult to believe we're not going into another count, it's like a routine. "Finbar won the first by one vote and I won the third by one vote. If it had come to a draw I would've won because I had more first preferences." Asked what she will do following the win, she said "we're gonna celebrate a lot, we're delighted". "I was the 19th [Soc Dem] councillor to be elected. 10 women and nine men so I just tipped the gender balance," she added. Total Seats by Party Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Carlow County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Cavan County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Clare County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Cork City Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Cork County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Donegal County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Dublin City Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Fingal County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Galway City Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Galway County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Kerry County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Kildare County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Kilkenny County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Laois County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Leitrim County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Limerick City and County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Longford County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Louth County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Mayo County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Meath County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Monaghan County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Offaly County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Roscommon County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Sligo County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,South Dublin County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Tipperary County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Waterford City and Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Westmeath County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Wexford County Council,0 Seats To Be Filled,#000000,Wicklow County Council,0 FF,#02994A,Carlow County Council,6 FF,#02994A,Cavan County Council,8 FF,#02994A,Clare County Council,13 FF,#02994A,Cork City Council,8 FF,#02994A,Cork County Council,18 FF,#02994A,Donegal County Council,12 FF,#02994A,Dublin City Council,11 FF,#02994A,Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,7 FF,#02994A,Fingal County Council,8 FF,#02994A,Galway City Council,5 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City Council,9 FG,#00477B,Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council,13 FG,#00477B,Fingal County Council,7 FG,#00477B,Galway City Council,3 FG,#00477B,Galway County Council,11 FG,#00477B,Kerry County Council,7 FG,#00477B,Kildare County Council,11 FG,#00477B,Kilkenny County Council,9 FG,#00477B,Laois County Council,7 FG,#00477B,Leitrim County Council,6 FG,#00477B,Limerick City and County Council,14 FG,#00477B,Longford County Council,9 FG,#00477B,Louth County Council,5 FG,#00477B,Mayo County Council,12 FG,#00477B,Meath County Council,12 FG,#00477B,Monaghan County Council,5 FG,#00477B,Offaly County Council,4 FG,#00477B,Roscommon County Council,2 FG,#00477B,Sligo County Council,6 FG,#00477B,South Dublin County Council,7 FG,#00477B,Tipperary County Council,12 FG,#00477B,Waterford City and Council,7 FG,#00477B,Westmeath County Council,5 FG,#00477B,Wexford County Council,9 FG,#00477B,Wicklow County Council,9 Ind,#525656,Carlow County Council,2 Ind,#525656,Cavan County Council,1 Ind,#525656,Clare 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SPBP,#6a100f,Fingal County Council,1 SPBP,#6a100f,Sligo County Council,1 SPBP,#6a100f,South Dublin County Council,3 Aon,#939393,Cavan County Council,1 I4C,#000000,Dublin City Council,1 I4C,#000000,Fingal County Council,1 Aon,#939393,Meath County Council,1 I4C,#000000,Sligo County Council,1 Aon,#939393,Wexford County Council,1 WP,#525656,Cork City Council,1 SKIA,#525656,Kerry County Council,1 IDP,#525656,Offaly County Council,1 R,#d89800,Offaly County Council,1 WUA,#e1c423,Tipperary County Council,1 At the time of his death, Johnson, a father of seven, had worked as a bouncer at a bar in Indiana and was a traveling barber, Coffman said. He had a lengthy criminal history that included dozens of arrests, but according to the attorney, had not been convicted of any violent crimes. Maria Bailey, the Fine Gael TD at the centre of a storm over a personal injury action she took against a hotel, will not be chairing a committee meeting on the government's housing plan tomorrow. Ms Bailey is the chairperson of the Oireachtas Housing Committee and minister Eoghan Murphy is due to appear before TDs and Senators to give an update on the Rebuilding Ireland plan. Independent.ie has learned that committee's deputy chairperson, Fianna Fail TD Pat Casey has been asked to chair the meeting by the committee's secretariat. Mr Casey confirmed that he will be chairing the meeting tomorrow. Ms Bailey has now dropped the legal action she took against the Dean Hotel over an incident in 2015 where she fell from a swing. The hotel denied liability. An Oireachtas press release issued today quotes Ms Bailey as saying the committee is "eager" to discuss draft exempted development regulations and the Rebuilding Ireland plan with Mr Murphy. She said comes at a time "when we need to accelerate housing supply delivery, while also ensuring that existing houisng supply is protected." TAOISEACH Leo Varadkar has said he has full confidence in Defence Minister Paul Kehoe after he was severely criticised by the former head of the Army Ranger Wing. The Taoiseach also shot down the possibility of making the Department of Defence a full Cabinet ministry despite calls from former soldiers and Opposition politicians. Speaking ahead of an EU Summit in Brussels, Mr Varadkar said: I have absolute support and confidence in minister Kehoe. He is a minister at the Cabinet table and has the same weight as any other minister at the Cabinet table, he added. The Taoiseach said he would have to scrap another department if he was to make the Department of Defence a full Cabinet ministry. I've yet to hear a proposal from anyone whether they think that should be the Department of Children or the Department of Rural Affairs or which one they think it should be, he said. Retired Commandant Cathal Berry, who headed up the elite Ranger Wing, described Mr Kehoe as an empty suit who is completely out of his depth and simply not up to the job. As a junior minister he has been the permanent presence in the Department of Defence since 2011 and has therefore presided over the demise of the Defence Forces, Mr Commandant Berry said. To reduce a highly effective and proud organisation to an utterly demoralised outfit over an eight-year period is some achievement, he added. In Brussels, the Taoiseach acknowledged the former Army Rangers criticism but insisted the Government was investing in the Defence Forces. I heard former Commandant Barry's interview this morning and it certainly was a stinging criticism and I think sometimes Government needs to listen to criticism and sometimes take it on board, he said. An extra 50m is going in this year and none of it is being handed back. It is going into new vessels, new aircraft, new equipment, better barracks and better pay and pension for our defence forces staff. A Department of Defence spokesperson said the Public Service Pay Commissions report on soldiers pay and conditions will be considered by the Cabinet in the coming weeks. Like other areas of the public sector, members of the Defence Forces are benefiting from pay increases in accordance with national public service pay agreements. The focus of these increases is weighted in favour of those on lower pay, he added. Sophie Toscan du Plantier suffered multiple fractures, lacerations and was killed with extreme violence, a Paris court heard today. The accused, 62-year-old journalist and poet Ian Bailey, is being tried in absentia after Ireland refused successive extradition requests from the French authorities. He has repeatedly denied the charges. Expert medical witness Marc Taccoen said the 39-year-old mother-of-one suffered fractures to her skull, defensive fractures to her hands and multiple lacerations to her brain and body, after she was hit repeatedly with a heavy object. He said that considerable force was used to wield the object, which could be either a breeze block or a large flat stone, both of which were found near her body. Mr Taccoen was part of the French team that re-examined evidence from the 1996 murder following Ms du Plantiers exhumation in 2008. Investigators believe she died while trying to flee an attacker who called to her remote holiday home in west Cork on the night of 22-23 December 1996. She lay undiscovered for several hours, Mr Taccoen said, and her body remained at the scene of the crime for at least 24 hours after discovery - covered with plastic sheeting - until the state pathologist could attend. The second day of the French trial into the death of Sophie Toscan du Plantier did not add any new DNA evidence to the findings of the then-state pathologist John Harbison. After a decade-long search, investigators are still unable to determine her specific time of death and have failed to find any physical evidence linking Ian Bailey to the crime scene. The 1997 evidence of two Gardai, Bart OLeary and Kevin Kelleher, was read out the court on Tuesday. The men said they remember seeing Mr Bailey looking pale, his hair messy and his hands covered in scratches in the days following the attack. Mr Bailey says he got the injuries - including a deep head wound noted by Mr OLeary - from cutting down a tree and killing a turkey for Christmas. The Gardai also said there were conflicting stories of the night of the murder given by Mr Bailey and his partner Jules Thomas, who lived just a few kilometres from Ms du Plantiers home in Schull, Co Cork. Mr Bailey denies ever having met or known Ms du Plantier, but has said that he remembers seeing her. Her best friend, Agnes Thomas, later recalled Ms du Plantier telling her about a man who wrote poetry and who had asked to meet her to collaborate on a project together. She thought he was strange, Ms Thomas told the court. She was wary of him. If she ever met him, it would have been professional, she said, adding that Ms du Plantier was working on a documentary at the time of her death. However, she did not recall being told the mans name. Family and friends told the court how they only found out about the murder via the media. Even her late husband, Daniel Toscan du Plantier, saw the news on television while visiting a friend in the French countryside. Daniel and I spent the day together and saw on TV that a French woman had been killed in Ireland. We didnt believe it was Sophie, said Jacob Gilbert, a friend of Mr du Plantiers. Mr Gilbert described Ms du Plantier as elegant, chaste and a natural beauty, but said she was very deep and reserved, and often needed time alone to recharge. Thats what brought her to Schull just before Christmas in 1996, where she told friends she was going to read and relax. She had just come out of a complicated crisis in her marriage, her friend Agnes Thomas said, but had planned to rejoin her husband, son and parents on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Ms Thomas described her friend as vibrant, generous and passionate about her work as a film producer. She was also fearless and very protective, a characteristic Ms Thomas believes may have led her to answer the door to her attacker on that December night. Sophie took care of other people, Ms Thomas said. If someone needed help and knocked on her door during the night, she [was the kind of person who] would open the door. The case is still ongoing at the criminal court in Paris. The panel of three judges (a jury trial is not possible under French law, due to Mr Baileys absence) is expected to return a verdict on Friday. Niamh Mc Evoy, Eoin Joyce, Aisling Ryan, Leo Mason and Rob Boland who work for Marks & Spencer pictured in Heuston Station (Photo: Kyran O'Brien) Yveanne Walshe, Cliona Kennelly, Constantina Tyrogalas, Niall Mullally, Aisling Toms and Eimear Casserly who work for Musgrave pictured in Heuston Station (Photo: Kyran O'Brien) Rail commuters faced massive delays this morning after a signal fault affected a significant number of services. Irish Rail attributed the delays to a "major signal fault" on Twitter and said services "into and out of Heuston are impacted". However, speaking on RTE Radio One's Morning Ireland, Irish Rail spokesperson Jane Cregan said the fault is "impacting everything from Dublin to Cork and also Dublin to Athlone". She said they are not providing alternative transport, adding; "There are thousands and thousands and thousands of people impacted." Engineers succeeded in putting a manual signalling system in place shortly before 8am. Expand Close Niamh Mc Evoy, Eoin Joyce, Aisling Ryan, Leo Mason and Rob Boland who work for Marks & Spencer pictured in Heuston Station (Photo: Kyran O'Brien) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Niamh Mc Evoy, Eoin Joyce, Aisling Ryan, Leo Mason and Rob Boland who work for Marks & Spencer pictured in Heuston Station (Photo: Kyran O'Brien) This meant that Intercity services including Galway/Westport services into and out of Heuston began operating again at 8am. However, delays of up to 90 minutes remain to Intercity services today. Due to a major signal fault. There are currently no services operating into and out of Heuston. This includes Newbridge/Hazelhatch to Grand Canal Dock services. DART, Commuter and Intercity services into and out of Connolly are not impacted. Update to follow Iarnrod Eireann (@IrishRail) May 28, 2019 Ms Cregan said this morning there was no alternative transport in place for customers as Irish Rail would not be able to source enough buses to cater for everyone. "We're hoping to have it rectified as soon as possible," she said. Expand Close Lisa Hunter and Robyn Koch fro Wisconsin, USA pictured in Heuston Station (Photo: Kyran O'Brien) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Lisa Hunter and Robyn Koch fro Wisconsin, USA pictured in Heuston Station (Photo: Kyran O'Brien) "Everything from Dublin to Cork to Limerick... a train may have got as far as Charleville, the Waterford route may get as far as Kilkenny. "It's the whole signalling system. In reality there is nothing moving in or out of Heuston." She continued; "With the number of people impacted we're not in a position to provide buses. We're advising customers to seek alternatives... for those who have not yet got on the train. "We will have to wait until the signal fault is recitifed. We have engineers working on the fault, but yes, there is a significant delay to customers en route to Heuston at present. Expand Close Yveanne Walshe, Cliona Kennelly, Constantina Tyrogalas, Niall Mullally, Aisling Toms and Eimear Casserly who work for Musgrave pictured in Heuston Station (Photo: Kyran O'Brien) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Yveanne Walshe, Cliona Kennelly, Constantina Tyrogalas, Niall Mullally, Aisling Toms and Eimear Casserly who work for Musgrave pictured in Heuston Station (Photo: Kyran O'Brien) "The majority of people have not yet left the station. Because the system is down, there is nothing we can do. "We couldn't get buses, they wouldn't have been sufficient." At Heuston Station passengers were stranded and waiting for information. Some were travelling for work reasons, while others were tourists on day trips. "We were due to go to Cork for a meeting on the 7am train, and we only found out there was a problem when we got here," said Aisling Toms, who was with a group from Musgrave wholesalers. "We actually heard it on the radio before anyone in the station told us. The notice boards were still reading 'on time' at that stage," said Niall Mullaly. "We're trying to find a way around it, but we may just have to go back to work here in Dublin," Aisling added. Another group of workers who were hoping to get to Cork for a meeting were waiting patiently at the main concourse. "We work with Marks & Spencer and were due to go to Cork for three days with work," said Aisling Ryan. "We travel by train sporadically but this hasn't happened before. "There was no sign of any difficulty when we arrived, and we only found out at 7am when we were due to board the train. "Our tickets are not transferable to a bus, so we don't know what will happen now. We will wait and see," she added. The Railtours tour operator was also affected by the delays, and staff at its stand were fielding questions from customers who had booked tours with them, most of them tourists from abroad. "We had hoped to go the the Cliffs of Moher and Bunratty, but it looks like that won't happen now," said Robyn Koch from Wisconsin in the United States. "The guy at the stand is apologising and offering us a refund or a chance to travel tomorrow, we don't know what we'll do yet," she added. "Maybe it was meant to be, maybe we'll have a great day in Dublin. Who knows?," she said with a smile. Sally Frees from Canada was also booked on a Railtours trip, and said because she was on an overnight tour the company was organising a bus to transport the passengers. "I had hope that the situation would be resolved, it has to be safety first. If I was stranded I'm sure there's lots to do in Dublin anyway," she said. Killed: John Heneghan (33), from Co Mayo, and Caitlyn Holtzman (32) on their wedding day Two Dublin men have been seriously injured in a car crash that killed an Irishman and his wife in New York State. An alleged drunk driver (58) has been arrested following the tragedy in the town of Clifton Park on Saturday afternoon. Co Mayo native John-John Heneghan (33) and his American wife Caitlin Holtzman (32) died after their car was struck by another vehicle while they were stopped at a traffic light. The three other people injured were named as Dublin men Luke O'Doherty (25) and Enda Crowley (31), along with Virginia native Julia Staples (24). Their injuries have been described as serious but not life-threatening. Mr O'Doherty is from Carpenterstown in Dublin west and a keen hurler, who had previously played for St Oliver Plunkett's/Eoghan Ruadh GAA in Ashtown. Mr Crowley is from Templeogue and has been living in the US for a number of years. He is the vice-president of a major construction company in a branch based in New York and in 2018 was named as one of New York's top young professionals. The man arrested in connection with the incident has been named by the New York State Police as Dickie R Winn (58) of Cohoes, New York. The defendant has been charged with aggravated vehicular homicide and two counts of vehicular manslaughter as well as driving while intoxicated. According to 'The Daily Gazette', Judge James Hughes denied him bail. The judge's order came after Mr Winn's public defence lawyer Oscar Schreiber said his client has a family and was an army veteran. "He joined the army in 1984 at 20 years old. He's been deployed seven times. The Gulf War, Panama, Iraq, Afghanistan, Guatamala and El Salvador," he told the court. "[Mr Winn] has a Bronze Star for valour. He came here directly from Fort Drum to Cohoes. He's been in service to our country for years and years and years, he's put his life on the line. I don't think he's going anywhere. He realises how serious this is." Mr Winn is due back in court on Wednesday. Mr Heneghan was originally from Tourmakeady in Co Mayo, but had been living and working in the New York area. A family member told the Irish Independent: "We are heartbroken by the loss of John and Caitlin. Our thoughts are with their friends in hospital, we are thinking of their families at this time." The family have announced that there will be cremation of John and Caitlin's remains and a memorial service in the USA, followed by a funeral mass/memorial service in Tourmakeady and interment of ashes. The arrangements will be announced later. Swing-claim TD Maria Bailey has done the insurance policy payers of this country a favour. Her now withdrawn action for damages against a hotel where she claims she fell off a swing has landed a massive blow to our out-of-control claims culture. Public patience with the failure to remedy our overly generous compensation system has run out, and Ms Bailey's controversial claim has ensured the Government can no longer put reform on the back burner. Her claim that she injured herself when she fell off a swing at The Dean hotel in Dublin has ensured she has been ridiculed. She has not generated any sympathy, especially after court documents showed the hotel claiming she was not holding the ropes of the swing, because she had items in both hands. Her lawyer's claim that she should have been supervised on the swing has been derided. Former justice minister and senior counsel Michael McDowell told the Seanad last week the Government's efforts to tackle claims culture cannot be taken seriously when a Fine Gael TD is taking a case over falling off a swing. To be fair to Ms Bailey, she is not the first Fine Gael TD to make a compensation claim. Alan Farrell alleged he suffered neck and shoulder issues which affected his personal and professional life for up to 18 months following an accident in Drumcondra, Dublin, in 2015. But the judge in the case ruled he did not suffer a "significant injury" and only awarded him 2,500. Judge Michael Coghlan said last July: "There is little or no notation to back up a claim of significant whiplash." Mr Farrell had claimed he experienced difficulty for six months after the accident, claimed he had to reduce his activities for up to 14 months after, and suffered occasional spasms up to 18 months on. But Judge Coghlan was shown a photograph of the TD up a ladder in Skerries, Co Dublin, just four months after the prang. Meanwhile, the ministerial colleagues of Bailey and Farrell are under huge pressure to sort out the compensation and insurance crisis which is closing businesses and festivals, causing jobs to be lost and pushing up the cost of insurance for all. We have too many claims, many of them spurious, and we pay out far too much for minor personal injuries. Judges indulge too many claims that reasonable people regard as nothing more serious than a pain that will pass after taking a few paracetamol. Lawyers are complicit in taking questionable claims. No lawyer has ever been sanctioned by the Law Society for representing someone taking a false claim. Medical professionals make a lot of easy money signing medical certs for people exaggerating and inventing injuries. This is despite the Irish College of General Practitioners (which trains GPs) telling the Personal Injuries Commission most whiplash claims were "frankly spurious". All of this leads to an avalanche of questionable claims. But the jig is up. Middle Ireland will no longer tolerate the out-of-control claims culture. The Government needs to realise it is on the wrong side of this one. In times of uncertainty, it's natural to look for both the bad news and the good. It is, of course, human nature to ask for the bad news first. In the wake of this weekend's European elections, we can safely say that, from an Irish perspective, the bad news is that there is no good news. The resounding success of Nigel Farage's Brexit Party means that the brief respite we enjoyed from the B-word while the politicians concentrated on the local and Euro elections has well and truly ended. At the time of writing, and before all the UK seats have been officially declared, the Brexit Party has won at least 28 MEP seats and managed to secure slightly more than 31pc of the votes cast. Not bad going for a party which was only set up six weeks ago and was initially dismissed as a bit of a joke. Well, Farage's opponents aren't laughing now. Instead, the Tories, already battered and bruised by their own much publicised internal squabbling and backstabbing, received the kind of kicking not seen since Fianna Fail was outed at the general election in 2011. There's a world of a difference between a general election and the Europeans, of course. But the Tories, even though they were expecting an electoral spanking, spent much of yesterday in shock. Few will shed a tear for their entirely self-inflicted injuries on this side of the water, but British stability is in our interest and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt's assertion that the Tories face "an existential threat" if they don't get Brexit sorted soon is something which should send shivers down our spines. After all, with Farage flush from victory and threatening to "wipe out" the Conservatives at the next election, his words, for once, are more than just bluster and the usual hyperbole. The sheer scale of the Brexit Party's success is reflected in the votes they took from the main parties. Having already increased Ukip previous results by more than 5pc, they also managed to achieve victory in previous Labour heartlands such as Hartlepool and Bolsover, and as we learned yesterday, the soon-to-be-outgoing prime minister Theresa May isn't the only leader who could end up with one word - Brexit - carved into her political tombstone. Jeremy Corbyn also faces open revolt from his own party following their disastrous performance. They managed to beat the Tories, which would normally be enough for any party to top the poll. On this occasion, however, they trundled in in third place, behind the Brexit Party and the Lib Dems, and the startling statistic is that even when you combine the Conservative (9.1pc) and the Labour (14.1pc) vote, they still managed to trail a massive 8pc behind Farage's group. Corbyn's main aides, John McDonnell and Diane Abbott, are angling for a second referendum. Dear Leader wants to hold on for an election; an election which could open the door for a Lib Dem/Green combined power base that, almost incomprehensibly, would dwarf either Conservative or Labour. These had been touted as the most crucial European elections since they were introduced in 1979 and they are certainly the first to see an increase in turnout. For once, the people on the ground and the technocrats in Brussels agreed on one thing - Europe is at a crossroads now more than at any time since the foundation of the European Union and people across all 28 (soon to be 27) member states are on edge. In fact, compared to the rest of Europe, Ireland is a bastion of stability and an oasis of consensus. France has been busy tearing itself apart for the last few months, with weekly 'yellow vest' riots and dark predictions of armed soldiers on the streets and the kind of civil unrest that can lead to complete carnage. Under those circumstances, it was no surprise to see Marine Le Pen's National Rally beating Macron's Republic On The Move. However, for all the 'fears' of the so-called 'far right' in France, the real winners, as they arguably were all across the continent, were the Greens. If the massive increase in the Green vote was isolated to this country then we could put it down as one of those electoral quirks which pop up from time to time. Instead, they managed to secure the balance of power in most countries and in the European Parliament itself they are now looking at 69 seats. That's an increase of 17 seats from the last election in 2014 and now positions them as the fourth largest voting bloc in Europe. With that kind of heft behind them, it was no surprise that German Green politician Sven Giegold said yesterday that: "Whoever wants legitimacy from us and the legitimacy of the many who went on the streets will need to deliver." The fact that the Greens did better in Germany than the more widely predicted nationalist AfD party was mirrored across the continent as the Greens picked up an unprecedented number of votes. Similarly, while the right-wing, Eurosceptic parties didn't perform as well as had been predicted, they have still managed to increase their representation in Europe. Frankly, if the Green surge hadn't been so strong, the consolidation - if not necessarily a massive spike - in votes for Eurosceptic parties would provide its own story. But the success of both movements is an indicator that maybe European politics is moving on from the traditional battlegrounds of the Old Right versus the Old Left. As Mark Leonard from the European Council on Foreign Relations reflected yesterday: "The electorate is crying out for change and is therefore volatile - preferring to back new insurgents rather than the status quo parties that have been around for decades." People have been predicting a complete rearrangement of the European political establishment for a decade and most of those predictions tended to assume that it would involve a massive rise of anti-European, anti-immigration, nationalist parties. That the big winners were the pro-European, pro-immigration and avowedly anti-nationalist Green movement is a profound reflection of how much the political landscape has changed in just a few short years. It's also an indication that we may be moving from the traditional paradigm of Old Right versus Old Left and entering a new phase of political conflict - one which could be bluntly described as a fight between those who say they love the planet and those who say they love their country. So, if we learned anything from this election it is that the old order is changing. But whether that's a blip or a foretaste of a new era remains to be seen. There are two types of story: Ones that are in the public interest and ones that interest the public. The idea of a Government TD taking a personal injuries case against a business because she fell off a swing while on a night out qualifies under both headings. I have known Maria Bailey since before she was a TD. She is a lovely woman and a hard-working member of the Oireachtas. It's almost inevitable though that all politicians will, rightly or wrongly, find themselves engulfed in controversy at some point. How they handle that moment in the limelight can be career-defining. Last Monday, the Irish Independent revealed Ms Bailey was suing The Dean hotel as a result of a fall in July 2015. At that stage we knew very little detail about the case except it would be listed among motions due to come before the Circuit Court County Registrar that day. It made page seven of the newspaper. Ms Bailey was given an opportunity to explain the background but chose not to. She forcefully asked that the story not be run. On Monday, one of my colleagues was able to establish that Ms Bailey's solicitors were arguing the hotel was negligent partly on the grounds that the swing was "unsupervised" and there were no signs telling patrons how to safely use it. The hotel intended to contest that she was holding items in both her hands when she fell. Naturally, our intrigue grew and the story was placed on Tuesday's front page. The former justice minister Michael McDowell was the first politician to speak out. Using privilege in the Seanad, he said: "We live in a strange world where civil liability can exist in such circumstances." Others, including Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin, followed. Labour Party leader Brendan Howlin reckoned: "Most people expect that once you are over the age of four you can hold on to the ropes and don't need adult supervision." Amid growing disquiet in the business community and on doorsteps, senior Fine Gael figures were trying to get Ms Bailey to drop the case. But she remained stoically silent. We kept digging and the hole for Ms Bailey grew bigger. It emerged the hotel had offered to pay 600 in medical expenses. By the time ballot boxes were opened on Saturday, we had established Ms Bailey ran a 10km race three weeks after the fall. This matters because court papers claimed she couldn't run "at all" for three months. For the Fine Gael hierarchy who had put up a defence during the week, this was a revelation too far. Even before this case came to light, the rising cost of insurance for business was a hot political topic. In recent months there have been Dail debates, TV features and copious amounts of newspaper stories on businesses being forced to close down. Ms Bailey sought to shoot the messenger in her RTE interview, claiming we were "judge, jury and executioner". The facts spoke for themselves - and the public made up their own minds. I am dismayed when I see the calibre of some of the councillors and politicians elected in this country. We have no ethics any longer as an electorate. We vote for someone who attempts to cheat the system and is found guilty of serious breaches in public office. We vote for tax evaders, bankrupts, even those with previous criminal convictions. We as an electorate have a duty and responsibility to vote for those who hold public office with the highest degree of integrity and honesty. But we as an electorate are fickle as we are naive. We vote for the man or woman who can fix a pothole in the road, gets financial assistance to fix our parochial halls, ensures funding is obtained for any other number of projects and blindly, or conveniently, forget their wrongdoings. What we forget is that some of those elected or seeking re-election dont care about honesty, integrity or even transparency. How can we as an electorate demand from those elected to office honesty, integrity and transparency, when we are willing to selectively set those values aside for the sake of a parochial hall or other forms of local funding? What happened to our values, or dont they matter? What happened to our demands for openness or honesty, or do they no longer matter? A quote from Cal Thomas, an American journalist, who stated that: One of the reasons people hate politics is that truth is rarely a politicians objective. Election and power are. We as an electorate must reflect on our own set of values before we lose it in the morass of lies and deceit. Christy Galligan Letterkenny, Co Donegal Remainers must face facts the British still want to leave The Brexit Party standing on a single, unambiguous policy came first in every single region of the UK bar Scotland and Northern Ireland, won 29 of the 73 seats available (40pc), and still delusional remainers like Caroline Lucas and soon-to-be Lib Dem leader Jo Swinson called it a defeat for those in favour of Brexit. This is based around a typical Guardianista mental gymnastics that those voting Tory or Labour were pro-EU despite the BBCs Laura Kuenssberg and polling expert Professor John Curtice pointing out both were massacred precisely because their message was as muddled as within Parliament these last three years. Heidi Allens bluster about Change UKs impact, meanwhile, resembles Slightly Silly Party leader Kevin Phillips-Bongs we won no seats but a great victory claim in Monty Pythons Flying Circus. Even if you add the combined totals of the referendums until we get what we want parties Lib Dem, Green, SNP and Plaid Cymru they still won fewer seats than the Brexit Party. Dry your tears and grow up to the fact the peoples vote you claim to crave has been made yet again and the people have said they want out. Mark Boyle Johnstone, Renfrewshire, Scotland Dusty the dolphin is a joy to behold but needs her space We are fortunate in Ireland to have a variety of whale, dolphin and porpoise species that inhabit our waters year-round. Sometimes you have to venture out to sea to encounter these marine mammals, but occasionally they approach us. Dusty is an adult female bottlenose dolphin who actively seeks out human contact. She is known as a solitary dolphin, since she rarely interacts with other dolphins and prefers to live alone but in the vicinity of people. Since the summer of 2000, Dusty has frequented the north Clare coast between Spanish Point and Fanore, but in recent years she regularly visits Doolin and Galways Inis Oirr Island. If you are fortunate enough to see Dusty, please give her some space and enjoy watching her from the shore. Do not enter the water in an attempt to swim with her. There have been a number of incidents where Dusty has robustly interacted with swimmers and numerous individuals have had to be hospitalised after ramming incidents perhaps because they invade the dolphins space. As a bottlenose dolphin, Dusty is afforded a high level of protection from national and European legislation, including wilful interference. For the welfare of both Dusty and the public at large, please respect this is a wild animal and do not indulge her inquisitive nature by entering the water. The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group works with the Marine Animal Rescue Coalition Solitary Dolphin Working Group which aims to develop plans tailored to the conservation of solitary dolphins to ensure their welfare is maintained. Dustys welfare is of concern, but if you follow these instructions and take note of the signs already displayed at Inis Oirr, you will help protect this accessible dolphin. Sean OCallaghan Irish Whale and Dolphin Group At least 30 people are dead and another 200 are missing after a boat sank on a lake in the Democratic Republic of Congo, authorities say At least 30 people are dead and another 200 are missing after a boat sank on a lake in the Democratic Republic of Congo, authorities say. Simon Mboo Wemba, the mayor of Inongo, told reporters that many of those on board the boat that sank on Lake Mai-Ndombe were teachers. The mayor said they had travelled to collect their salaries by boat because roads in the region are so poor. It was not immediately known how many people were on board the boat when it hit bad weather late on Saturday. But officials estimate several hundred were on board. More than 80 people survived. Rescuers work at the scene of the attack in Kawasaki (Kyodo News via AP) A knifeman has killed at least three people and wounded nearly 20 more including 13 children after attacking commuters waiting at a bus stop just outside Tokyo, according to reports in Japan. Authorities and media said that a man attacked people lined up at the bus stop in Kawasaki City. The NHK national television report, quoting police, said the wounded were rushed to nearby hospitals, but one child and two adults were believed to have died. NHK later reported the suspect was among the dead. An official with the Kawasaki fire department said one person was believed to have been killed. NHK said the attacker had been captured and two knives were found at the spot. No other details, including the mans identity and motives, were immediately known. Celebration: Brexit Party founder and leader Nigel Farage is joined by his victorious MEPs in London. Photo: AFP/Getty Labour and the Conservatives' Brexit policies were dealt a hammer blow by UK voters in a terrible night for both parties in the European elections. The Brexit Party and the Liberal Democrats triumphed, but the scale of disaster for the main parties was laid bare as the final results for Britain were announced. The Tories secured just 9.1pc of the vote - their worst ever national election share - while Labour finished on 14.1pc, with voters split between the clear Brexit alternatives offered by Nigel Farage's new party and the pro-EU Liberal Democrats. Just four Conservatives were elected in England, Scotland and Wales, while the Brexit Party had 29 seats, overtaking the 24 MEPs that Mr Farage's former party Ukip sent to the European Parliament in 2014. The Lib Dems - reduced to a single MEP in 2014 - were on 16 after their best ever European results. Labour had 10, halved from 20, while the Greens - who also enjoyed a boost from pro-EU voters - were on seven, up from three in 2014. Voter turnout in Britain was the second highest for an EU election, but still low at 36.7pc. Northern Ireland's cross- community Alliance Party was set to win its first ever European Parliament seat in a surge it said furthered the case for a re-run of Britain's Brexit referendum. Alliance leader Naomi Long stormed into third place after the first count and her deputy said it looked "fairly certain" she would win one of the North's three seats after campaigning for a second vote on the EU divorce. The vote indicated increasing support for candidates who are not aligned to the traditional Catholic or Protestant voting blocs and was the best showing for the Alliance Party, which was founded almost 50 years ago. "This is a vote about Brexit ... it's a vote to remain, it's a vote to have a people's vote," Ms Long, close to tears, said at the Belfast count centre. "People came together behind Alliance to send a message and that message is we want to stay in the EU." Sinn Fein topped the poll, just ahead of the Democratic Unionist Party. By almost trebling the Alliance vote to 18pc compared to the 2014 poll, Ms Long looked set to leave unionist parties without a majority of the country's European seats for the first time. With some support slipping from the main nationalist and pro-British parties, the votes of those moving towards cross-community parties like the Alliance and Greens could also prove crucial in any future referendum on reunification with Ireland. Meanwhile, Brexit Party leader Mr Farage said he was getting ready to fight a general election, warning his Brexit Party could "stun everybody" if the UK had not left the EU by then. "We're not just here to leave the European Union but to try and fundamentally change the shape of British politics, bring it into the 21st century and get a parliament that better reflects the country," he said. Divisions in Labour were laid bare following the results, with shadow cabinet members Keir Starmer, Emily Thornberry and Tom Watson calling for the party to rethink its position - but leader Jeremy Corbyn said a general election remained his priority. The Lib Dems topped the poll in Islington, north London - where both Mr Corbyn and Ms Thornberry are MPs. Tory Foreign Secretary and leadership hopeful Jeremy Hunt said the dire results for the Conservatives meant the party faced an "existential risk" unless it delivered Brexit. Home Secretary Sajid Javid, who became the ninth MP to enter the Conservative leadership race after Prime Minister Theresa May announced her plan to resign, said the "hugely disappointing" results were a "clear lesson" the public wants the government to get on with delivering Brexit. "People saying we need a Brexit policy to bring people together are misreading the situation. That is clearly not possible." Prominent Brexiteer and MEP Daniel Hannan, who managed to cling on to his seat in the South East, said it was "without question our worst result as a party ever". Undated handout photo issued by Police Scotland of Renee MacRae, 36, who disappeared with son Andrew after leaving their home near Inverness on November 12 1976. Police Scotland/PA Wire A quarry will be completely emptied of water to allow police to continue a murder investigation into the disappearance of a mother and her three-year-old son more than 40 years ago. Renee MacRae and her son Andrew were last seen driving out of Inverness on November 12, 1976. The 36-year-old mother-of-two's BMW was found burned out in a lay-by on the A9 near Dalmagarry, 12 miles south of the city, but the pair have not been seen since. A forensic search of Leanach Quarry is expected to start in the coming days, the latest attempt in an investigation spanning more than four decades and now led by Police Scotland's major investigation team. Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Brian Geddes said the quarry had previously been deemed too dangerous to search using divers, hence the decision to pump water completely from the site. He hailed the move as a "significant development" in the case. Expand Close Previous searches took place at Dalmagarry Quarry following a cold case review in 2004 (Maurice McDonald/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Previous searches took place at Dalmagarry Quarry following a cold case review in 2004 (Maurice McDonald/PA) Mr Geddes said: "Work is now under way to carry out a forensic search of Leanach Quarry where we believe key pieces of evidence may have been concealed. "A key part of this operation is to recover the remains of Renee and Andrew if they are within the quarry and gather evidence vital to this on-going investigation. "We are working with a number of different partners on what will be a challenging and complex operation expected to last several weeks. I would also like to thank local landowners for their co-operation in this inquiry. "The quarry has previously been deemed too dangerous to search using divers, which is why the decision has been made to pump the water completely from the site. "We will thereafter remove the sediment from the quarry, which will allow specialist search officers and forensic experts to carry out a meticulous search of the material." In 2004, a full cold case review resulted in a month-long excavation of Dalmagarry Quarry. Several days were spent at Leanach Quarry in October last year when officers also released an image of young Andrew around the time of what would be his 45th birthday. A picture of his pram was also released, although it was never recovered. DI Geddes added: "It is a major undertaking for everyone involved but the determination remains within Police Scotland to solve this case and bring closure to Renee and Andrew's family and friends after all these years. "We intend to do everything we can to ensure that any key pieces of evidence which we believe are in there are recovered. "I would also appeal to anyone with information to please come forward and speak to us." Anyone who believes they can assist police is asked to contact 101, e-mail a dedicated inbox at SCDHOLMESInverness@scotland.pnn.police.uk, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. A hooded police officer holds a box during searches at a suspect's home following the blast in Lyon. Photo: AP French police have arrested a 24-year-old Algerian computer student suspected of planting a bomb in Lyon last week that wounded 13 people. Three other people were also arrested in connection with the case, which is being treated as a terrorist attack. A man was spotted by security cameras leaving the explosive device - with screws and metal balls packed into a paper bag- in a pedestrian shopping street in the French city on Friday a minute before it exploded. Sources close to the investigation said the suspect did not have a police record while the other three detainees included his mother and younger brother. Police found the man thanks to security camera footage, said Lyon Mayor Gerard Collomb. Footage showed a masked man wheeling a bike to the scene before leaving a bag outside a bakery. Police then tracked him to a city suburb. DNA traces were found on the remains of the parcel, according to sources. Another said judicial police tailed the man and arrested him in the city centre as he got off a bus. Police searched the suspect's home but decided not to arrest him for fear there could still be some of the unstable homemade explosive used in the attack. Americas first state trial against drug manufacturers blamed for contributing to the opioid crisis has started in Oklahoma. Oklahoma attorney general Mike Hunter started opening arguments by saying powerful painkillers have led to the worst manmade public health crisis in US history. The state alleges drug firms extensively marketed highly addictive opioids for years in a way that overstated their effectiveness and underplayed the risk of addiction. Expand Close Oklahoma attorney general Mike Hunter (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Oklahoma attorney general Mike Hunter (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki) This crisis is devastating Oklahoma, Mr Hunter said, adding that opioid overdoses killed 4,653 people in the state from 2007 to 2017. Drug makers deny Oklahomas claims. The companies maintain that they are part of a lawful and heavily regulated industry that is subject to strict federal oversight, and that doctors are the ones who prescribe the drugs. Much of the opioid crisis, they argue, is the result of illegal activity, such as drugs being stolen or obtained fraudulently. Expand Close OxyContin-maker Purdue Pharma has already settled with Oklahoma (AP Photo/Toby Talbot, File) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp OxyContin-maker Purdue Pharma has already settled with Oklahoma (AP Photo/Toby Talbot, File) Lawyers for consumer products giant Johnson & Johnson and several subsidiaries are expected to start making their case. Two other companies, OxyContin-maker Purdue Pharma and Teva Pharmaceuticals, have already settled with Oklahoma. The trial could bring to light documents and evidence that show what the companies knew, when they knew it and how they responded. A federal judge in Ohio is overseeing the 1,500 consolidated opioid lawsuits filed by state, local and tribal governments. The boss of Flybe is to leave the airline following its sale to rival operators for just 2.2 million. Christine Ourmieres-Widener has decided to step down from her role as chief executive of Flybe Limited on July 15, the company said on Tuesday. Her departure comes two months after shareholders approved the sale of the business to Connect Airways, a consortium comprising Virgin Atlantic, Stobart Air and Cyrus Capital, for only 1p per share. Jonathan Peachey, director of Flybe, said: On behalf of the entire Flybe board, I want to extend my gratitude to Christine Ourmieres-Widener for her commitment and significant contributions to Flybe. This includes her tireless efforts to safeguard the future for the customers and communities who rely on Flybe, as well as the companys employees, its pension fund members and its creditors. We all wish Christine the very best for the future. The price attached to the airline was called disappointingly low by Flybe ahead of a vote in March, but investors were warned that failing to pass the deal would result in steps being taken to wind-up its operations. Ms Ourmieres-Widener became CEO of Flybe in January 2017. Last year she joined the board of governors at the International Air Trade Association (IATA), the worlds aviation body. It has been a privilege to lead Flybe over the past two years and to work with such an outstanding and dedicated team of professionals, she said on Tuesday. Together, we have been able to secure the jobs of our loyal Flybe employees with the sale to Connect Airways and provide our customers and the UK with the vital transport and travel infrastructure they rely on, while preparing Flybe for a bright future under its new ownership. Officers from the Ministry of Environment examine a container full of non-recyclable plastic detained by authorities at the west port in Klang, Malaysia (Vincent Thian/AP) Malaysia has said it will send back some 3,000 metric tonnes of non-recyclable plastic waste to countries including the UK, US, Canada and Australia, in a move to avoid becoming a dumping ground for rich nations. Environment minister Yeo Bee Yin said 60 containers stacked with contaminated waste had been smuggled into illegal processing facilities in Malaysia. Expand Close Non-recyclable plastic detained by authorities at the west port in Klang, Malaysia (Vincent Thian/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Non-recyclable plastic detained by authorities at the west port in Klang, Malaysia (Vincent Thian/AP) She said 10 containers will be shipped back within two weeks as she showed reporters contents of the waste at a port outside Kuala Lumpur. The waste that was displayed included cables from the UK, contaminated milk cartons from Australia and compact discs from Bangladesh. Also shown were electronic and household waste from the US, Canada, Japan, Saudi Arabia and China. Ms Yeo said Malaysia and many developing countries have become new targets after China banned the import of plastic waste last year. Malaysia will not be a dumping groundYeo Bee Yin, environment minister This is probably just the tip of the iceberg (due) to the banning of plastic waste by China, she said. Malaysia will not be a dumping ground to the world we will fight back. Even though we are a small country, we cant be bullied by developed countries. Expand Close Environment minister Yeo Bee Yin with waste from the UK (Vincent Thian/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Environment minister Yeo Bee Yin with waste from the UK (Vincent Thian/AP) In one case alone, Ms Yeo said a UK recycling company exported more than 50,000 metric tons of plastic waste in about 1,000 containers to Malaysia over the past two years. The government has clamped down on dozens of illegal plastic recycling facilities that had mushroomed across the country, shutting more than 150 plants since last July. Earlier this month, the government also sent back five containers of waste to Spain. Expand Close Yeo Bee Yin with a container of plastic waste (Vincent Thian/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Yeo Bee Yin with a container of plastic waste (Vincent Thian/AP) Ms Yeo said Chinas plastic waste ban had opened up the eyes of the world to see that we have a huge rubbish and recycling problem. We urge the developed countries to review their management of plastic waste and stop shipping the rubbish out to the developing countries, she said. Saved: Volunteers rescue a child from the rubble of a building hit by an air strike in Ariha. Photo: AFP/Getty Images At least six people were killed and 10 remain under rubble following Syrian government air raids on a crowded residential area in the rebels' last stronghold, rescuers and activists said yesterday. The first responders known as White Helmets said five women and a child were killed. Rescue workers were still searching for survivors under the rubble after the airstrikes hit in the town of Ariha. Videos from the scene by the White Helmets showed a narrow alley blocked by the debris from a pulverised building. Survivors covered in white dust were among those who lifted a wounded man on a gurney and a young girl into an ambulance. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights also reported six killed. The scene in Ariha was reminiscent of the violence that has hit many rebel-held areas as the government pursued similar military tactics to regain control of territory it had lost to armed opposition. In the last three years, Syrian troops, with support from Russia and Iran, have regained control of most of the country, displacing hundreds of thousands, mostly to Hama and Idlib, where rebels are making their last stand. But this rebel stronghold is home to nearly three million people, who have nowhere to run to escape the government offensive. A ceasefire in place since September, negotiated by Russia and Turkey, has all but collapsed. UN agencies say more than 200,000 are displaced within the stronghold, moving from the southern tip up north and crowding already packed camps and towns. Most of those displaced are living outside of camps, the UN said, while some have sought safety near the Turkish border where they hope no airstrikes would pursue them. Some 20 health facilities, three displaced people's camps and one refugee camp were hit in the violence, the UN Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported on Friday. Since the violence picked up on April 30, the observatory said at least 215 civilians, including 47 children, were killed in the rebel stronghold. In adjacent government areas, 21 civilians were killed by rebel fire, according to the observatory, which monitors the war. Yesterday alone, the observatory said there were more than 100 air raids and as many as 93 barrel bombs dropped on the southern section of the rebel stronghold. Russia and the government announced last week the opening of two corridors for civilians to exit the rebel-held enclave - another familiar tactic followed to empty opposition areas amid a military operation. The UN said it was not party to discussions for such a corridor and said movement of civilians must be a choice, not forced by violence. The majority of the civilians living in the last rebel stronghold have either been evacuated from other opposition-held areas or are hard-core anti-government critics who refused to return to government control. Our fight is just beginning, Ideas Illinois declared in a fundraising email that landed Monday in my inbox. Now, we have to take this battle, our message about this unfair Jobs Tax to every family in Illinois. We are aggressively gathering resources to fight this unfair tax all the way to November 2020, and we hope youll fight alongside us by donating today. Administrators have launched a last-ditch attempt to save womens fashion retailer Select and its 1,800 high street employees. The chain, which operates from 169 UK stores, went into administration earlier this month after a period of subdued sales. Administrators at advisory firm Quantuma have launched a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) in a bid to save the company from ceasing trading. Under the plans, no immediate store closures or redundancies would be made. However, advisers said some may occur even if the proposals are approved. If landlords do not approve the measures and no buyer is found for the business, it is expected that it will cease trading. Andrew Andronikou, partner at Quantuma, said: The turnaround plan embarked upon by the management delivered benefits but had not reached sufficient maturity to protect the business from this impact in the market. There remains the opportunity, with the support of its parent company, to bring these to fruition and, in doing so, return the business to a stable and profitable position. The company passed another CVA in April last year, securing a reduction to its rent bill from landlords. However, it went into administration in May this year after low consumer confidence, Brexit uncertainty and volatile currency weighed on performance in the early part of the year. Turkish entrepreneur Cafer Mahiroglu bought the business out of administration in 2008. Rescuers work at the scene of an attack in Kawasaki, near Tokyo Tuesday, May 28, 2019. A man wielding a knife attacked commuters waiting at a bus stop just outside Tokyo during Tuesday mornings rush hour, Japanese authorities and media said. (Kyodo News via AP) A man carrying a knife in each hand and screaming I will kill you! has attacked a group of schoolgirls near a school bus parked at a bus stop just outside Tokyo, killing two people and injuring at least 17 before killing himself. Most of the victims were students at a Catholic school who were lined up at the bus stop near Noborito Park in the city of Kawasaki when a man in his fifties began slashing them with knives. City officials, quoting police, said the suspect was captured but died from a self-inflicted slash in his neck. Witnesses described a hellish scene: children and adults falling to the ground, some with their shirts soaked with blood, dozens of children running and screaming for help, and school bags and books scattered on the ground. I heard a scream so I stopped and turned around to see what happened. It was not a normal tone of voice, said Yasuko Atsukata. She said she saw one person collapse, and then another. The colour of their white shirts turned red after they collapsed, then I understood they got stabbed. In a nearby car park, a frightened-looking boy was in shock with scratches on his face, hands and legs, apparently from falling to the ground as he ran for his life. Police identified the attacker as Ryuichi Iwasaki, a 51-year-old resident of Kawasaki, and said they were still checking his occupation. His identity and motive were not immediately known. Expand Close Police officers investigate the scene (Jae C Hong/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Police officers investigate the scene (Jae C Hong/AP) Iwasaki reportedly lived with his elderly uncle and aunt and was known as a troublemaker. A neighbour said Iwasaki repeatedly rang her doorbell early one morning about a year ago and shouted at her husband that he had been hit by a tree branch sticking out from their garden, the Sankei newspaper reported. Kawasaki city official Masami Arai said most of the injured were students at Caritas Gakuen, a Catholic school founded by Soeurs de la Charite de Quebec, an organisation of Catholic nuns in Quebec City in Canada. Arai said three of the injuries were serious. Kanagawa prefectural police confirmed 17 people were injured and three others had died, including the attacker. Police identified the two other fatalities as 11-year-old Hanako Kuribayashi and Satoshi Oyama, a 39-year-old government employee who was taking his child to the bus stop. Hospital officials said both had been slashed in the neck and the head. Caritas chairman Tetsuro Saito said at a news conference that he was struggling to fight back my anger. Expand Close Students leave their school with parents following the attack (Shinji Kita/Kyodo News via AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Students leave their school with parents following the attack (Shinji Kita/Kyodo News via AP) My heart is broken with pain when I think of the innocent children and their parents who send their children to our school with love who were victimised by this savage act, he said. School officials said they will step up security measures at the school, including adding more security guards. But the incident raises questions about how schools can ensure the safety of children while commuting. Japanese children often walk to local schools in groups. Witnesses said that as the attack unfolded, the bus driver shouted at the attacker, and as he was running away he cut his own neck, collapsing in a pool of blood as police seized him. Japanese media including public broadcaster NHK said he was a 51-year-old resident of the city and that police found two more knives in his bag in addition to the two he was holding. Expand Close School officials at a news conference (Jae C Hong/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp School officials at a news conference (Jae C Hong/AP) Television footage showed emergency workers giving first aid to people inside an orange tent set up on the street, and police and other officials carrying the injured to ambulances. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he was outraged by the attack. Many small children were victimised, and I feel strong resentment, Mr Abe said as he was hosting US President Donald Trump on a four-day state visit, which ended on Tuesday. I will take all possible measures to protect the safety of children. Although Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, it has had a series of high-profile killings, including in 2016 when a former employee at a home for the disabled allegedly killed 19 people and injured more than 20 others. Also in 2016, a man stabbed four people at a library in north-eastern Japan, allegedly for mishandling his questions. No-one was killed. In 2008, seven people were killed by a man who slammed a truck into a crowd of people in central Tokyos Akihabara electronics district and then stabbed passers-by. Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, Castle & Cooke North Carolina and the City of Kannapolis have been named the North Carolina Community College Systems 2019 Distinguished Partners in Excellence. They were honored for their unique collaboration in supporting the North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis and Rowan-Cabarrus Community Colleges role in workforce development. Collaboration between Castle & Cooke North Carolina and the City of Kannapolis began over a decade ago and has created benefits for the community, the community college, and for regional and state workforce and economic development. We are enormously proud of these partnerships. When public and private entities can come to the table and say, Weve got a common goal and were willing to go the distance to make a real impact, it makes a huge difference in our community and in the lives of individuals who live and work here, said Dr. Carol S. Spalding, president of Rowan-Cabarrus. The partnership award focused on two of the most notable partnership efforts. These efforts the work that Rowan-Cabarrus has done at the Research Campus, the advancement of the College Station campus, and the Advanced Technology Center, which will open later this year. "I want to thank everybody for having us out and all the great programs that made it possible for us to be here today," Hill said. "They've given great things to us and our family. Most of all, I think it's important that we remember what this weekend is all about. It's not about myself, it's not about any other veterans in the room - although I'm sure there's some pretty incredible ones around - but this weekend is about the guys who didn't make it home. It's about the fathers, the sons, the daughters, the brothers, the sisters - all of them who are missed this weekend, missed every day. Thoughts about being a Columnist Its going on eight years now, since Ive been churning out weekly columns: first for my own little newspaper (now defunct), A Cheyenne Voice; for several local Montana rags and finally, most important for the Native Sun News Today, which has much wider coverage. How has editor/publisher Tim Giago come up with something to say each week for more than forty years? He has a wide range of commentary, running from the very serious to the comic. And maybe a bigger brain than me. For many of my columnist days, I was a political critic, running the gambit from tribal council, county officials, state and even national figures, thinking ever to have something of import to suggest. How did that work out, you might wonder? While it did garner following of the local equally disgruntled who always encouraged me to keep going, it seldom made one bit of difference. Oh yeah, it did gain me the occasional ire and irritation of many elected officials, mostly at the tribal level. But, in fairness, Im thankful that during my six-year tenure as an elected tribal official, there was not such a dedicated columnist around to scrutinize my doings. Though, I did get featured in an unfavorable Billings Gazette story a time or two. No politician, however well-intended is perfect. When I formerly worked for U.S. Senator John Melcher, a daily task was to scan several newspapers, trying to keep up with the pulse of current affairs and alerting the good Senator, when and if, he was mentioned therein. Each morning, armed with a stout cup of caffeine, I started. First: check the horoscopes (It is always a good idea to figure what the day might hold); second: Ann Landers, always up for a domestic drama or hoot and third (the best): the Dave Barry column, who later won a Pulitzer prize for commentary and has since authored several books. Then, the dreary scan of news the same ole same ole, only the names different. Why did I turn to Dave Barry? Same reason as many other readers. He wrote about ordinary day-to-day things we could all relate to. He could almost always put a smile or a cant believe he said that! upon your face. And, in the most amazing irreverent way, writing down words that most other journalists would not even have considered at the time. He may have single-handedly introduced poop, pee and butt-hole into the columnist vocabulary. Thus, Dave Barry, now retired, is my mascot, quite hard to follow. It is very easy to be a harsh political pundit, the politicians such as tribal officials, easy targets as they discover the wonders of government financed travel and that no one, even the Tribal President can make them go to work when they dont want to. Whoops! I just again slid down the slippery columnist slope. Clara Caufield can be reached at acheyennevoice@gmail.com Join the Conversation Kinaalda: A Navajo girl comes of age in traditional ceremony LUPTON Hours before the sun will conquer the dark, a light rain falls, burning wood crackles and soft voices drift from a hogan. An 11-year-old Navajo girl, dressed in a purple velvet blouse, multicolored camp skirt and moccasins, her long, black hair tied into a ponytail, struggles to keep her eyes open. On one side of the traditional dwelling, medicine men and women, some with colorful cloths tied around their heads, sing songs of prayer in Navajo. On another side, family and friends, some dressed in velvet, others in sweatshirts and comfortable clothing, sit on old couch cushions and pillows along the hogans angled walls. Theyre here to guide and support young Kieloh Nellie Poola as she comes of age. The ceremony is called a Kinaalda, and every woman in Kielohs family before her has been through it as they transitioned into adulthood. It takes place in the days after a girls first menstrual period, a sign that she can bear children in the future. Kieloh is surrounded by four generations of Navajo women in her family. The first coming-of-age is considered or believed to be holy. You are becoming a woman, and you will have children, become a grandma, said Nellie Shirley, 86, Kielohs great-grandmother. The songs they sing are about life and the future for my granddaughter. In early February, family and community members gathered at the Lupton home of Nellie Shirley to participate in the Kinaalda for Shirleys great-granddaughter, Kieloh Nellie Poola. Photo by Vivian Meza / Special for Cronkite News The story of Changing Woman The Kinaalda tradition originates from the ancient story of Changing Woman, one of the Holy People, or creators, in Navajo belief. When her body began to transform so that she could bear children, the Holy People marked the occasion by conducting the first Kinaalda. After being physically molded by First Woman into the shape of a woman, Changing Woman baked a cake made of ground corn and offered the first piece to the Sun, the most powerful Holy Person. Changing Woman conducted four ceremonies, for each of her first four periods: two she performed for herself, and two she performed for all Navajo women to come. She had that ceremony done for her, so that has carried on up to now, Shirley said. The songs about her ceremony talk about how the Earth and the skies are connected, and how the plants and mountains are connected. The first ceremony, the one for most Navajo girls, typically is conducted over four days to represent the four seasons and the four sacred mountains of the Four Corners region. In that time, the girl who is coming of age, along with members of her family and community, will bake a corn cake, called an alkaan, by burying it in an earthen pit and setting a fire atop it. Early in the evening on the second-to-last day, a medicine man is called to help lead prayer songs and other aspects of the ceremony. The hogan is considered a sacred dwelling for Navajo people and is where most traditional ceremonies are held. Although most tribal members live in modern homes today, some keep hogans for ceremonies. Photo courtesy of Natalia Miles The last night is the most detailed part of the ceremony, filled with rituals that are crucial to ensuring a bright and fruitful future for Kieloh. It also requires singing prayers all night until the sun rises to begin the last day. Kielohs mother, Raphael Price, had been up for 36 hours straight preparing for her daughters Kinaalda, but it was all worth it, she said. As the sun rises Since 10 oclock the previous night, the medicine men and Kielohs family have been praying as a fireplace burns in the middle of the hogans red dirt floor. A faded blue sky begins to peek through the curtains that cover the only two windows of the hogan and through the cracks of the log roof. Kieloh, her eyes slipping closed, rouses as the head medicine man speaks to her in Navajo and English, instructing her on the next steps. All of them, he says, are meant to bring her strength and guidance as she becomes a woman and, hopefully, a mother someday. As he speaks, some of the women get up to spread cornmeal on a pile of book bags, ceremonial baskets and some of Kielohs personal items that are gathered behind the fire. They represent Kielohs journey into the next phase of her life. The women also pass around a small bag of the cornmeal to bless themselves. Friends and family dig a pit that later will be covered and set ablaze to bake the alkaan, a ceremonial corn cake. There are many recipes for the cake, but the primary ingredients of this one were ground corn, sugar and raisins. Photo courtesy of Natalia Miles Shirley is someone her great-granddaughter can look to as an example of a Navajo woman. The medicine man guides Shirley as she ceremoniously removes all the turquoise jewelry Kieloh is wearing, washes it in a bowl, and sets the jewelry aside. She washes Kielohs hair with the same water, which then is poured into a small hole in the floor. Kielohs grandmothers cover it with dirt, then gather the wet soil into a blanket and take it outside. As the sun rises, the medicine man instructs Kieloh to stand, leave the hogan, and run to the east until the final songs of the ceremony are finished. Her family members follow. When she returns 20 minutes later, shes officially considered a woman. Sharing the blessings After Kieloh, breathless and cold from the chill, re-enters the hogan, her sponsor, her paternal grandmother, paints streaks of white across her cheeks to give her one final blessing, as well as streaks across her palms so Kieloh can share the blessing with others. With a small brush in one hand, a bowl of paint in the other, Kieloh paints white lines on their palms. They then tap along their bodies from toe to head so that the blessing will touch every part of their being. After the blessing, Kieloh is escorted outside again by her female relatives and laid across a stack of blankets by the doorway of the hogan. Her sponsor molds her one last time by lifting her chin and running her hands along her arms and legs, just as Changing Woman was molded, so that she may grow strong and beautiful. Once the alkaan batter is poured into the pit, its topped with corn husks and covered with dirt. A fire will burn on top of it for at least a day before the Kinaalda ceremony ends so the cake will be thoroughly baked. Photo courtesy of Natalia Miles The eight or so children attending the ceremony line up and stand so that Kieloh may bless them for growth by tapping them from toe to head and stretching their arms. To continue her show of generosity and kindness, each participant in the Kinaalda is given a piece of the alkaan, the corn cake, and a bag of goodies: candy, snacks and soda. Out of respect, the head medicine man who conducted the ceremony is given the first and largest piece of cake. The gifts to all of her guests also show Kieloh appreciates them for supporting her during this pivotal moment. We pray along, sing along, get together to make it strong, Shirley said. Kieloh Nellie Poola, 11, stands with her mother, Raphael Price, outside the hogan where her Kinaalda will take place. Price says she worked 36 straight hours to prepare her daughter for the ceremony. Photo courtesy of Natalia Miles Looking to the future The ceremony celebrates a girls transition into womanhood and her ability to bear children, but today it is mostly seen as a way of honoring Navajo culture and preserving its most precious traditions and beliefs. It is also a way to bring together a family, a community, to support someone young and in need of guidance. Shirley hopes that her great-granddaughter, through the blessings and prayers of her Kinaalda, will go on to pursue an education, be a good person and live a long, full life. Nothing to brag about just be humble and the rest will take its place, she said. As part of the kinaalda ceremony, a cake made primarily from corn, called an alkaan, is placed in a pit. Once buried, a fire will be lit above it to bake it for at least a day. When the ceremony is ending, it will be cut into pieces and served to family and others who attended the coming of age ceremoney. Photo courtesy of Natalia Miles Vivian Meza is a former Cronkite News reporter and wrote this story for her Arizona State University honors thesis, a project posted on her website that explores the intersection of Christian and Native faith This story originally appeared on Cronkite News and is published via a Creative Commons license . Cronkite News is produced by the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University Join the Conversation #MeToo in Indian Country; 'We don't talk about this enough' Sexual harassment in Indian Country is an inconvenient and deeply uncomfortable truth Indian Country Today Sexual harassment in Indian Country is an inconvenient and deeply uncomfortable truth. Most media coverage of sexual violence and harassment focuses on the high rates of non-Native perpetrators and Native victims. While important, these articles fail to reveal the equally troubling stories about Native perpetrators who target Native victims. Framing Native peoples as victims and focusing on the fact that Native women are 2.5 times more likely than any other ethnicity in America to be sexually assaulted is a common thread in legacy media. The broader story, however, is decidedly messy and deeply human; 30-35 percent of perpetrators in sexual assaults against Native women are Native men. Indian Country Today spent the past nine months investigating sexual harassment issues. In the process of reporting, we learned about the lack of accountability, and procedures for reporting harassment in tribal, nonprofit and federal government agencies. We also found high rates of unreported incidents, negative consequences for victims and a culture of protecting perpetrators. This investigation has been a time of furtive, late-night phone calls from a vast cross section of women. Some are well-educated and lauded both in and outside of Indian Country; some are ordinary, hard working women laboring in obscurity. The alleged perpetrators are similar in their diversity. Some are employed at the highest levels of tribal and government leadership; some work in more prosaic jobs. They all, however, share attitudes of entitlement and impunity from the consequences for their behaviors. Indian Country Today found that Native people and organizations, like their mainstream counterparts, are not immune from using the male privileges and protections of wealth, power, and social status to prey on the vulnerable. Nor are they immune from the desire to cover up these unpleasant facts. The MeToo movement has skipped Indian Country, said Amanda Takes War Bonnet, public education specialist for the Native Womens Society of the Great Plains. Takes War Bonnet of the Oglala Lakota Nation said Native women dont report sexual harassment or assault because they believe their communities wont support them and little will be done. Constant racism, sexual and domestic violence, childhood trauma, lack of accountability from tribal law enforcement and court systems and not being believed if they do come forward has contributed to silencing Native women, she said. Sarah Deer, Muscogee (Creek) Nation, is a longtime activist for the rights of Indigenous women. She is a professor at the University of Kansas. Photo by University of Kansas Although Native communities are working to address violence against women through greater compliance with the Violence Against Women Act and the Tribal Law and Order Act and creating better sexual violence laws, they arent necessarily working to address non-violent forms of abusive behavior such as sexual harassment in their own communities, according to Sarah Deer, a longtime activist for the rights of Indigenous women. Deer of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation was named a MacArthur Fellow in 2014 in recognition for her work on the Violence Against Women Act and the Tribal Law and Order Act. She currently holds a joint appointment at the University of Kansas with the School of Public Affairs and Administration and the Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies. Sexual harassment is considered a civil rights issue and includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature in the form of quid pro quo. This means if you accept my advance, Ill reward you. If not, expect retaliation. It can also take the form of a hostile work environment that may include offensive jokes, threats, intimidation as well as offensive objects or pictures in the workplace. Sexual assault is a criminal act and is usually physical; it involves any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the recipient, according to the Department of Justice. Not everyone who sexually harasses people will become a rapist. But it creates an atmosphere of lack of accountability if we fail to call out those who sexually harass others, Deer said. Since so many of our women have been physically assaulted, we tend to minimize harassment. We tell ourselves that if we arent hit or raped, its not that bad, even though we feel unsafe and afraid to be alone with the perpetrator." People may also fear negative fallout from airing the communitys dirty laundry, according to Deer. Were already stereotyped as being dysfunctional; Native people may be fearful of adding to that perception by reporting harassment, she said. We dont talk about this enough. Indeed, the barriers and repercussions to reporting both assault and harassment reach far and deep in Native communities; women have been effectively silenced for generations, especially when it comes to reporting their own. Until now. During the course of our investigation, Indian Country Today learned that perpetrators include a vast spectrum of men. Some are among those who speak publicly about supporting the Violence Against Women Act and who join rallies denouncing the rise of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. They work at nonprofits with missions to serve women and children suffering from the trauma of child abuse. Survivors shared similar stories of organizations dismissing ongoing complaints about these men. One source who prefers to remain anonymous described how the director of womens services at a Native family community organization ignored her repeated complaints about unwanted sexual touching and advances from an employee. The source, J was 17 years old at the time. Later the man was arrested for sexually assaulting several teenagers. All organizations contacted by Indian Country Today used similar language to describe their response to complaints of sexual harassment or assault. Its often said: We have zero tolerance for sexual harassment and assault. Unfortunately, this declaration often represents the extent of their public policies. Breaking news The Institute of American Indian Arts Alumni Council released a public statement on the organizations Facebook page on May 8 demanding that the tribal college investigate claims of sexual assault of a student by a staff member. The statement was signed by Alumni Council members Heidi K. Brandow, president, Tahnee Growing Thunder, Vice-President, Tristan Ahtone, Linley Logan and Kevin Locke. The Institute of American Indian Arts is a tribal college located in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Indian Country Today contacted the accused staff member via telephone and email offering him an opportunity to respond to the Alumni Councils and unidentified students allegations of sexual assault. He declined to provide a statement. A student shared details of an April 9, 2019 alleged assault via Facebook that took place in the staff members office on the IAIA campus. According to the student, after asking her for a massage, the staff member forcibly pushed his hands under the womans clothing. He hurt me physically and mentally. He did not have my consent, she wrote. According to the student she didnt make a formal complaint with school administrators because they ignored her two previous complaints about another IAIA staff member for sending inappropriate sexual tweets to students. I dont feel that IAIA takes our safety seriously therefore I didnt go through the schools protocol, she wrote. Indian Country Today reached out to the student but she has not yet responded. On Thursday May 9, students gathered at the dance circle on the institutes campus as a show of support for the woman. Students placed copies of the womans statement throughout the campus according to students Michael R.L. Begay and Juliana Brown Eyes. A second institute employee was also named in the flyer and accused of sending students inappropriate text messages inquiring about their sexual and romantic lives. TW: Sexual assault allegations [Image of press release from Three Sisters Collective] 5/9/19 To IAIA Students... Posted by Three Sisters Collective on Thursday, May 9, 2019 A May 9, 2019, press release from the Three Sisters Collective said two staff members at the Institute of American Indian Arts have been accused of sexual assault and sexual harassment. According to a Facebook post on the Three Sisters Collective public page , both men accused in the flyer were recently involved in planning a campus event designed to bring attention to missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and members of the LGBTQ community. Three Sisters Collective is a social and environmental justice organization based in Santa Fe. Members of the Three Sisters Collective did not respond to Indian Country Todays request for comment. The second alleged perpetrator responded to an email from Indian Country Today seeking comment. I havent sexually harassed anyone; Im not under any criminal or any investigations or complaints here at IAIA. Eric Davis, director of Marketing and Communications at the institute responded via telephone on May 10 to our request for comment regarding how the college is handling the situation. Davis read a statement issued by Institute of American Indian Arts President Robert Martin: Today for the first time we learned of claims of sexual harassment and assault that allegedly happened one month ago. As soon as we learned of this alleged assault, we contacted law enforcement. IAIA takes all forms of sexual harassment and assault seriously. We will investigate in accordance with IAIA policies prohibiting harassment, assault and retaliation against students. In response to email questions about the second alleged perpetrator Davis wrote in an email message, I am not at liberty to discuss Human Resources matters. The Associated Press reported that Santa Fe County Sheriffs Office spokesman, Juan Rios, confirmed that an incident took place at the IAIA campus but that no one has been charged or arrested in the case. Rios would not comment further on the investigation. According to Davis, the matter is confidential so he would not discuss any actions taken against the alleged perpetrator. Victim counselors had a gathering with students on campus and have spoken to some of the students, Davis said. He said he didnt know if counselors had spoken to the victim. On May 13, 2019, Tusweca Studio published a video entitled Stop the Silence IAIA! in which 14 individuals state that they dont feel safe at the school. Several said that the schools lack of response to allegations of sexual assault and harassment contributed to the lack of safety on campus. At the 1 minute mark, one student said, I do not think this behavior is normal; it should not be normalized. Us as students do have a voice and we do have the power to make change and make progress for past students, present and future students who attend the Institute of American Indian Arts. Tusweca Studio was founded by IAIA students Michael R.L. Begay and Juliana Brown Eyes. Tusweca is a Lakota word for dragonfly according to Brown Eyes. Begay recently won the 2019 Tribal College Journals Student Best Film Award for his original work Lightening Boy. Both filmmakers are enrolled in the IAIA cinema arts program. During a phone interview with Indian Country Today both Brown Eyes and Begay described the process of making Stop the Silence IAIA! We were mad and hurt by the administrations lack of response, Brown Eyes said. The victim is a close friend according of the couple. We wanted to provide a safe space for students to provide their testimonies so we opened up our little studio space to them, she said. They filmed and edited the video over a nonstop period of 36 hours. We forgot to eat, Begay said. Dear IAIA Community: The Institute of American Indian Arts Alumni Council demands that IAIA President Dr. Robert Martin... Posted by IAIA Alumni Council on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 When they learned that IAIA president Martin was hosting a roundtable discussion with students about the incident they rushed the editing process and ran over to the meeting barely in time to show the video to the president and students there. It had a lot of impact. The president could see with his own eyes how the schools lack of concern upset the students, Begay said. Begay, who served as headman at the schools recent powwow, organized a blanket dance in order to raise money to help the victim get home. We raised over $500.00 for her," he said. "The school didnt provide her with anything." The response to the incident has all been student led according to Begay and Brown Eyes. School security guards threatened people who were putting up the flyers describing the assault with expulsion; the guards ripped down the flyers, Brown Eyes said. The administrations greatest concern seemed to center on containing legal fallout for the institution rather than on the victims and students well being according to Brown Eyes and Begay. Many students were triggered by reading the flyer and hearing about the incidents; they needed spiritual support, Brown Eyes said. The victim had to drive home alone, several states away, according to the couple. We have been keeping in contact with her though, making sure shes safe, they said. This is not the institutes first experience dealing with allegations of sexual harassment and assault. In February 2018, the college was painted by the sexual harassment scandal involving Sherman Alexie, a prominent Native author. Several women, including former IAIA faculty member Elissa Washuta described incidents of sexual harassment by Alexie to National Public Radio . According to Washuta, Alexie harassed her and tried to lure her into his hotel room for sex. Washuta claimed that school administrators failed to act after she reported the incidents. According to an article in the Albuquerque Journal , Davis didnt remember Washutas allegations against Alexie but later noted that the schools Title IX office reached out to Washuta after hearing about the incident. Alexie served as faculty mentor and consultant for the Master of Fine Arts Creative Writing Program at the Institute. The school has since dropped the writers name from the Sherman Alexie Scholarship renaming it the MFA Alumni Scholarship. In August 2018, the National Congress of American Indians was roiled by its poor handling of charges of sexual harassment against staff attorney John Dossett. Women employees complained of leaderships lack of response to repeated claims of harassment. The National Congress of American Indians is the U.Ss oldest and largest intertribal organization. Founded in 1944, the nonprofit organization advocates for tribal governments with the federal government and works to develop consensus on national issues according to its website. The scandal soon led to investigations of leaderships handling of employee complaints of sexual harassment.. Dossett was fired from his position and Executive Director Jackie Pata was placed on administrative leave in October 2018 while an ad hoc committee composed of members of NCAIs executive committee conducted a review. Pata resigned in February 2019. Findings from the ad hoc review have not been released publicly. NCAI President Jefferson Keel wrote in a statement released in February 2019 via email to press and NCAI members, Some of you have asked for more specific information, such as providing internal investigation findings and outcomes for review. But to comply with these requests would jeopardize those parties who have chosen privacy over publicity. NCAI press representatives did not respond to Indian Country Todays recent request to see the ad hoc committees report. The outing of men such as Alexie , several high level employees at the Bureau of Indian Affairs and harassment allegations within the National Congress of American Indians are slowly exposing a shameful open secret in Indian Country. The series of recent scandals underscore a common, unfortunate human truth. Native people and organizations are not immune from using the privileges and protections of wealth, power, and social status to prey on people perceived as vulnerable. Indeed, during the many phone calls made across the country to Native women, they all shared an overwhelming fear about losing their jobs, the chances for future employment, housing, social services for themselves and their families as well as the love, respect and support from close knit Native communities. They described tribal leaders who belittled them as women in public meetings, compared them to photos in pornographic magazines, suggesting they should model for the publications; others described receiving ongoing sexual propositions, sexually charged texts and social media messages as well as unwanted touching. Many welcomed the opportunity to share their stories. Although talking helped ease their burdens a bit, few women held out much hope for justice. Caught in impossible situations, they shared their survival strategies, avoiding travel or being alone with perpetrators, arranging escape plans from work-related functions, ignoring inappropriate, demeaning comments and direct solicitations for sex and worse deciding not to report unwanted physical contact, from touching to assault. All are united in a delicate and dangerous dance of remaining employed and safe in unpredictable and hostile environments. Mary Annette Pember works as an independent journalist focusing on Indian issues and culture with a special emphasis on mental health and womens health. Winner of the Rosalynn Carter Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism, the USC Annenberg National Health Fellowship and Dennis A. Hunt Fund for health journalism she has reported extensively on the impact of historical trauma among Indian peoples. She has contributed to ReWire.News, The Guardian, and Indian Country Today. An enrolled member of the Red Cliff Band of Wisconsin Ojibwe, she is based in Cincinnati, Ohio. See more at MAPember.com This story originally appeared on Indian Country Today on May 28, 2019. Join the Conversation It was only last year that India bid farewell to the draconian Article 377 which criminalised homosexuality. The law might have changed, but society's ostracisation of LGBTQIA+ community hasn't changed. The truth is that they still have to face issues on a daily basis because people still havent stopped discriminating against them solely based on their sexuality. Hence, it is high time that the LGBTQIA+ community in India finds its own voice as well as a safe space to share their concerns and ask for guidance. The Times Of India has taken the first step in this direction, to give a voice to the LGBTQIA+ community by launching a campaign called 'Times Out & Proud.' As a part of this initiative, the newspaper will offer the LGBTQIA+ community free space in its classifieds for three months. TOI Launched on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, the campaign is based on the humane belief that no one should be denied basics like housing, entry into food places, or jobs based on their sexuality. TOI Newspaper, as a medium, is widely read in India and is also shared by all sections of the society as a point of information. Hence, The Times of India thought that the best way to bring a visible progressive change in society would be to use this newspaper space to give visibility to the voices originating from the LGBTQIA+ community. The members of the community can use the classifieds section for free of cost for three months to bring forward their requirements regarding jobs, housing and even life partners. But most importantly, this space will be used to bring out the previously unheard stories, especially the issues of the LGBTQIA+ community. TOI The campaign was kicked off with a film featuring members of the LGBTQIA+ community in India recounting their daily struggles and life-long issues because of the regressive attitude of the society. You can view the video here and visit the campaign page to join it. If you are a member of the LGBTQIA+ community or want to support an LGBTQIA+ friend or relative, and want to be featured in Times Out & Proud classifieds, write to us with your full name and contact number at outandproud@timesgroup.com. We're so happy that such initiatives are bridging the gap between the society and taking steps towards an inclusive lifestyle. To know more about the campaign visit toi.in/outandproud. Horse used in a wedding procession succumbed to injuries it had sustained during a stone pelting incident at Khambhisar village of Modasa tehsil in Aravalli district. On May 12, upper caste men pelted stones when a Dalit groom, Jayesh Rathod, was rising horse in the village. This was the first time when a Dalit rode horse in marriage. Police have registered a case under various provisions of IPC and Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocity) Act. The stone pelters belong to Patiday community and includes 16 women and 27 men. Representational Image After horses death, police have added Section 429 of the IPC (mischief by killing cattle) to the FIR against 43 upper case people, reported Indian Express. The accused had attacked the marriage procession with stones and abused Dalits and created obstacles to stop the procession. The horse died a couple of days ago after staying under medical supervision since May 12. Gambhir condemned the attack and called for strict action by Gurgaon authorities. Gambhir wrote, In Gurugram Muslim man told to remove skullcap, chant 'Jai Shri Ram. It is deplorable. Exemplary action needed by Gurugram authorities. Read more Here's more top news of the day: 1) Chennai Metro Has Switched Off ACs To Save Water Amid Severe Crisis In The City Tamil Nadu's capital Chennai is facing an unprecedented water shortage with the supplies almost running dry for days in many parts of the city. It has now reached a point where the Chennai Metro Rail Corporation (CMRL) is turning off air-conditioning to reduce water consumption. Read more 2) With Impending Monsoon Delay, Maharashtra's 10,000 Villages Are Only Dependent On Water Tankers Reuters As the water crisis deepens in Maharashtra, 305 villages and 547 hamlets have been added to the list of habitations to be taken care of with the help of water tankers. The stress over access to clean water is increasing as more and more villagers are coming forward complaining about water scarcity. Read more 3) Fake Human Pride: Stone Pelting At A Dalit's Wedding Leaves Innocent Horse Dead In Gujarat Representational Image Horse used in a wedding procession succumbed to injuries it had sustained during a stone pelting incident at Khambhisar village of Modasa tehsil in Aravalli district. Read more 4) Woman Who Survived Mount Everest 'Traffic Jam' Calls For Strict Rules After 10 Deaths In A Row afp Ameesha Chauhan, a survivor of the Everest "traffic jam" who is in hospital recovering from frostbite, said climbers without basic skills should be barred to prevent a recurrence of this year's deadly season on the world's highest peak. Read more 5) Humiliated By Defecating In Open, Jharkhand Woman Attempts Suicide. So Much For #SwachhBharat? AFP An incident which shows that the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has a long way to go before it achieve its objective, a 25-year-old woman attempted to kill herself on Sunday because the humiliation of going to defecate in open was unbearable. The house of woman doesnt have a functional toilet. Read more Black Shark 2 is a brand new gaming-focused smartphone that was officially launched in India yesterday. However, the launch went less than stellar, as a bunch of online followers of the company realized it had seriously messed up one important detail. Black Shark Facebook Page Across Black Shark's official Facebook and Twitter profile, fans found that the company had posted an upside down photo of the Indian tricolour. It's unbelievable that a smartphone brand preparing to launch a smartphone in India for the very first time would make such a glaring, inexcusable mistake. And some fans who felt offended at Black Shark's disrespect of the Indian flag did reach out to them on their social media handles. Black Shark Twitter Not only on Twitter, people expressed outrage on Black Shark's Facebook page as well, where the same upside down Indian flag image was posted a few days ago. People demanded Black Shark to remove the offensive posts containing the wrong Indian flag, calling it an 'insult,' and lack of 'ethics'. Black Shark Facebook page As of now, both of Black Shark's improper Twitter and Facebook posts remain online. Let's hope Black Shark fixes it mistake sooner rather than later, and avoids making such unimaginably juvenile mistakes. NASA is currently preparing for another major mission, one that will see them sending a spacecraft to Mars once more in 2020. Lucky for you, you get to be a part of history by sending your name on the Mars 2020 mission as a representative for the human race. Images courtesy: NASA The mission will see NASA launching its Mars 2020 rover to the red planet, which will further our search for possible alien life there. The rover is equipped with a variety of tools and instruments, some of which will drill into the crust and collect dirt samples. The mission will be looking for everything from signs of past water, to microbes, to minerals in the soil, and much more. The samples collected will be deposited at certain points along the rover's path where they could potentially be picked up by a later spacecraft and brought back to Earth. And while this is happening, your name could join it on the journey. Until September 30, you can send your name in to NASA and engineers at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) will etch it onto a silicon chip with an electron beam. That way, the rover will be carrying your name around as it does its job. Of course, the etching will be tiny. At about one-thousandth the width of a human hair, the size will let NASA etch more than a million names on just one of the rover's chips. This isn't even the first time NASA has done this. They'd previously allowed "passengers" this way on board the Mars 2018 mission, as well as when it sent the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft to asteroid Bennu. And if you send your name in, you get an official boarding pass to commemorate your trip. You even get frequent flier miles, about 504 million kilometres of them, but good luck trying to redeem those with your next flight out of India. "From the synopsis we received, the film looks to have an uplifting message about the power of faith," said Amy DeLong Didricksen, the church's office administrator. "It will bring a positive message to the Elgin area (while) featuring several local establishments. The production team/film makers are a great group of people and FUMC would like to do what they can to support the local arts scene." Over ten years ago, while working as a translator for a mining company in Peru, I was often surprised by the divisive views held by the public when I told them where I was working. For the average Limenian (the term given then to the people of Lima, where I lived) the mining industry had transformed the country into a parable not unlike Tolstoys fabled beggar who spent his lifetime sitting on a pot of gold. My colleagues meanwhile would argue that the industry bringing jobs, education, healthcare and opportunity to areas which had been overlooked by the government and blighted by terrorism. This was, as I mentioned, ten years ago. Today I am told that, at least since the hasty departure of Fujimori, that the hypothesis has moved on. Peru has looked to other countries in Latin America and taken lessons on how these countries are developing their mining industry. Countries like Brazil, which hosts the worlds largest graphite company (outside of China) Nacional do Graphite, and refractories company, Magnesita. Or Mexico, which has a fluorspar behemoth in Mexichem and Chile, which holds lithium and potash company SQM. But the tide is turning and it is a wave which encompasses all of Latin America. Just as Africa has taken to resource nationalism and Australia is reviewing its taxes, so countries in Latin America are reviewing their royalty payments. Regulation is opening up, leading the way for potential in hydraulic fracturing (fracking) and renewable energies. But for some countries, progress remains slow. Mexico InMexico, the country recently introduced the steepest mineral royalties in the world, unsettling foreign and domestic mining companies operating in the country, and, arguably jeopardising the Latin American nations mining-friendly image. The fiscal reform bill, approved by both houses of congress at the end of October and signed by President Enrique Pena Nieto, has not gone down well with the countrys mining industry. The aim of the bill was to boost mineral tax revenues to strengthen the governments fiscal position. But Mexicos mining industry, the biggest in Latin America, says it has been unfairly singled out and is being asked to make a disproportionate contribution. Mexico senate this week also signed an historic energy bill, which has now been sent to the lower house. The ruling PRI party, its coalition bloc PVEM and the right-wing PAN were the proponents of the bill while the left-wing PRD and other leftists groups voted against it, at times occupying the senate floor and unsuccessfully motioning for suspension of discussion. The legislation opens up legislation of all exploration, including shale-rock formations which jut from southern Texas into northern Mexico. It is expected that Mexico will begin to look at unconventional gas exploration. Bolivia In Bolivia, state involvement has been so high that for lithium producers it has meant regulatory hurdle after regulatory hurdle in trying to get a project off the ground. This year the Fraser Institute, a Canada-headquartered independent public policy research firm, placed Bolivia below Zimbabwe at 92 of a list of 96 least enticing places for foreign mining companies to fund projects, despite being rich in mineral deposits. The Fraser Institute Annual Survey of Mining Companies was sent to approximately 4,100 exploration, development, and other mining-related companies worldwide. The survey represents responses from 742 of those companies. Bolivia has missed a golden opportunity to become a lithium superpower following a failure to come up with a plausible technical approach to produce lithium carbonate on its own after more than five and half years of unfruitful experimentation, Latin America economist Juan Carlos Zuleta told IM. Faith is still there, however. In August this year the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs special envoy for natural resources, Prince Jaime de Bourbon Parme, signed a declaration of intent on behalf of the Netherlands in Bolivia. This declaration spelled out a partnership which will see the Netherlands share its knowledge and expertise with Bolivia on exploiting and using its large deposits of lithium. How, or when, or what this will entail, however, remains to be seen. Chile Chile is long established as a copper producer and it is also the largest lithium producer in the world. In Chile, the mining industry is by far the most important sector of the economy, representing an average 14.7% of GDP between 2003 and 2012; in the same period, mining exports reached an average of $36bn, mining lawyer Jeronimo Carcelen, wrote recently in Latin Lawyer. However, logistics and infrastructure can be an issue. Power outages are common and roads can become washed away. In terms of its energy problem, Chile has started to look towards renewable energy to solve this conundrum. Solar energy has been discussed (an industry which consumes silicon carbide, high purity quartz, silica sand and soda ash and feldspar) and since July this year fracking is now taking place. State oil company ENAP announced a successful frac at its Arenal block in Tierra del Fuego. The fracked well is reportedly flowing 120,000 cubic metres per day. ENAP has said it will spend $100m on unconventional exploration this year. But for lithium producers looking to exploit the vast Salars (de Atacama and Maricunga) the main issue is regulation since the complete disaster that was the Special Lithium Operation Contracts (CEOL), all has fallen quiet on that front. The winner of the CEOL was expected to sign a 20-year contract with the government to explore the Atacama Desert. SQMs winning bid to develop a lithium concession in Chile was declared as invalid by the Chilean government as it still had legal issues pending with the state. Follow-up contender Li3 Energy filed a petition with the Chilean government, asking them to consider awarding them the tender, but nothing has come of it. An issue, in any case, is the lack of available water on the salar, Carlos-Zuleta told IM. What if Atacama fails to deliver the lithium necessary for all the different competing uses in the following years? (...) I have reason to believe that that could in fact be the case. This has nothing to do with reserves (....) It pertains to availability of a key element in brine production nowadays: water, he said. Brazil A Brazilian government mining-reform committee this week said it will postpone a vote on a proposed legislation overhaul until February amid continued disagreement over the bill ahead of an upcoming recess. The vote was been held up due to differences within Brazil's executive branch over some provisions in the bill, the Wall Street Journal reported. "The government demonstrates that it doesn't want to vote on the bill this year," the bill's sponsor, Congressman Leonardo Quintao, told the newspaper. The main sticking point, Quintao added, was whether the government would allow royalty rates to be established directly within the legislation. But the mining industry itself is growing in the country, but also, it is looking to the end use market, with a view to becoming vertically integrated. In November, Solvay announced it has agreed to acquire the speciality chemical assets of ERCA Quimica, Ltda. in Brazil. This, it said, allowed the group to more than double its production capacity in surfactants in Brazil, serving customers in the agrochemicals, home and personal care, coatings, mining and oil and gas markets. Solvay Novecare deals in specialty surfactants which use industrial minerals as fillers, such as kaolin, calcium carbonate and talc. Magnesitas meanwhile has gone the other way and is developing graphite and talc deposits within Brazil for use in its refractories and other end markets. For oilfield markets, Brazil remains an important player as it has recently discovered significant assets in the country both in conventional energy markets and unconventional ones. Protests, however, have marred this landscape so far. A ripe continent? Next year looks to be an interesting one in Latin America. Weve touched on only a fraction of the exciting developments that have been taking place. It is not a continent where mining is a new concept, nor it is a continent which is coming to the end of its path. But it is one which needs to work with the mining industry in order to develop. It is marred by past greedy government and sometimes, greedy mining bosses strict and sometimes, nonsensical regulation policies and a vast amount of misinformation in the public sphere. There are logistical challenges and there are energy issues, but these look to be developed which can only be a good thing for the industrial minerals industry. By Huaqing Fu China imported 14,259 tonnes of flake graphite in April, up 156% year on year, while exports fell due to cheaper available stocks from Mozambique, according to official but unconfirmed data seen by Fastmarkets. While rising significantly year on year, imports were down 15.7% from March.... The outgoing governor of Lagos state, Akinwumi Ambode is definitely ready to officially leave office tomorrow, May 29th. The governor who has handed over the reins of government to his successor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday, just hours to his inauguration on Wednesday Also changed his bio on Twitter to the former governor of Lagos state. He notes also that he has had a very rewarding four years. See post Nigerian on-air and television personality IK Osakioduwa turned 40 over the weekend and invited his friend, family and celebrities to come celebrate with him. The birthday party was a Game Of Throne themed party as celebrities who graced the event turned up in their Game Of Throne costume, Some of the celebrities that stormed the party were Basket mouth and his wife, Banky W and his wife Adesua Etomi, Ebuka, Patoranking, Waje, Bovi and his wife Falz The Bahd Guy and many more celebrity, guests check out the most fascinating costumes and the celebrity who wore them and tell us your favourite. Yakubu Dogara, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to stop blaming people for his own failure. While speaking in an interview broadcast on the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA on Monday, Buhari said I asked them how they felt to hold the country at ransom for seven months without passing a budget. Unfortunately, they were not hurting me; they were hurting the country. So, really, in terms of patriotism, I think I rated them very low indeed. However, in a statement on Tuesday, Dogara while reacting to Buharis comment said: His first budget was the 2016 budget, which was submitted on December 22, 2015, exactly nine days to the end of the fiscal year. The minimum time the National Assembly requires to pass a budget is three months. But he presented it just nine days to 2016 and that what Nigerians didnt know and the President wont say is that the Executive through the various ministries continued to propose additional projects to be included in the 2018 budget even as at April and May which further delayed the passage of the 2018 budget. These were communicated officially and if anyone is in doubt, the letters are there with the dates they were written and received. But heres Buhari blaming the National Assembly. President Muhammadu Buhari a few days ago, in his usual characteristics of self-righteousness, and buck-passing blamed tardiness in the passage of budgets by the National Assembly for the delay in the completion of projects across the country by his government. To be precise, the president said, If the National Assembly takes seven months to pass a budget, then we should be commended for the much that we have achieved, and can still achieve. I personally feel very disappointed. I spoke with the leaders of the National Assembly on the issue that seven months is a long time to work on a budget. Even though buck passing and blame game is not new to Buhari as it is now his stock in trade; in the past few days and weeks, there is no day that passes without the President blaming others in a desperate move to exonerate himself from any blame or failure of the Executive under his leadership to execute projects across the country. In fact, very recently, Buhari blamed all his predecessors for failing to build infrastructure. And I wonder why? It was the general consensus that the former employees didnt perform as expected and that was why Nigerians hired him for a job he has sought for four conservative times but here he is blaming the same people he replaced. If you are the boss of Nigeria limited, what will you do this employee? Some weeks ago, he even blamed the media for failing to showcase his achievements. Im very disappointed with the Nigerian press. They didnt give this government the credit of the go back to the land programme, he said on 26 October. Time and space would not permit me to list all his blaming. However, it is disingenuous for President Muhammad Buhari to blame the National Assembly for his governments inability to implement budget and execute projects that affect the lives of Nigerians in the last three years. To set the record straight, this is a President who, from the inception of his government didnt show any sign that he was well prepared and ready for the job he sought for four times in 16 years and for which we voted for him. For instance, it took him six months, yes six months not six weeks to form his cabinet. It also took him two years to appoint board chairmen for most government agencies. This is was his greatest undoing and was principally responsible for plunging Nigeria into recession because activities in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of government were brought to a half for the period since civil servants could not take decisions due to the absence of political heads in a country where public sector spending drives the economy. At a point, he even said he was happily working with civil servants because ministers or politicians were noisemakers because they are only there to make a lot of noises, he told a French television station in September 2015. Now, after three years, with the election in three months, the President is at it again, exonerating himself from the apparent failure of his government thereby throwing the blame right at the doorstep of the legislature. But facts dont lie and they could be stubborn and here are the facts. Since his assuming office, the president has been unable to present the budget on time. His first budget was the 2016 budget which was submitted on December 22, 2015, exactly nine days to the end of the fiscal year. The minimum the National Assembly requires to pass a budget is three months. But he presented it just nine days to 2016. Again, the 2017 budget was presented on December 14, 2016, just 17 days to the end of 2016. The earliest he presented budget was on November 7, 2017, which was the 2018 appropriations bill. It was less than two months to the end of the year. However, his ministers refused to appear before National Assembly committees to defend the budget for five months thereby delaying the passage. It was after the leadership of the National Assembly sought the Presidents intervention on March 16, 2018, that the ministers reluctantly appeared before the committees, an exercise that takes at least one month to complete. In fact, some of them who felt they were super ministers sent in their permanent secretaries. What Nigerians didnt know and the President wont say is that the Executive through the various ministries continued to propose additional projects to be included in the 2018 budget even as at April and May which further delayed the passage of the 2018 budget. These were communicated officially and if anyone is in doubt the letters are there with the dates they were written and received. But heres Buhari blaming the National Assembly. Violation of Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 Since the inception of the Buhari administration, it has been in constant violation of the Fiscal Responsibility Act which stipulates that budgets should be presented in early September. The wisdom or import of the FRA is that the National Assembly will have at least three full months to work on the budget bill. In fact, the Executive admitted its failure and inability to abide by the law on August 24,2018 when former minister of Budget and National Planning, now minister of finance, Zainab Ahmed disclosed that the Federal government will present the 2019 budget in September in a bid to restore the budget circle from January to December but here we are in November without the budget estimates before the lawmakers. See link https://www.dailytrust.com.ng/fg-to-submit-2019-budget-in-september-267246.html. Buharis Failure/Refusal to assent to budget submission Bill In a bid to address the issue of late budget presentation and passage, the National Assembly passed a constitutional amendment bill that requires the President to submit the Appropriation Bill not later than 90 days to the end of the financial year but unfortunately, very, unfortunately, the president has vetoed the bill. Veto of National Assembly Budget Office Bill In an effort to improve the institutional capacity of the Parliament to process and pass budget expeditiously, the National Assembly Budget and Research Office (NABRO) establishment Bill was passed into law. It was loosely modeled after the American Congressional Budget Office (CBO). Again, President Buhari has also vetoed the Bill. Lack of Adequate Consultation Under a Presidential system of government like ours where the doctrine of separation of powers and principles of checks and balances is well enshrined in our constitution, wisdom presupposes that the Executive at all time engages the legislature on all issues that requires legislation in order to have their buy-in even before it is presented to the parliament formally. The three Presidents before Buhari, from 1999 -2015, Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yaradua and Goodluck Jonathan despite their failings sustained this tradition which is necessary for harmonious relations between the Executive and the Legislature and smooth running of government. Under this, it is expected that the President meets with the leadership of the two chambers (Body of Principal Officers including members of the opposition) and brief them on the details of the budget and key projects he would want to execute. They, in turn, would brief their colleagues while the MDAs will then engage the committees over sighting them in pre-budget session. President Shehu Shagari used to hold such meetings monthly. Doing this would have helped in reducing the time it takes to pass the budget because even before it is presented, the MPs would have been well informed about it and their inputs are taken into consideration at the preparation stage by the various MDAs. Unfortunately, this too has not been done in the last three years. National Assembly Not A Rubber Stamp Parliament The National Assembly has repeatedly challenged the Executive to approach the Supreme Court to seek interpretation on the constitutional powers of the legislature over budget, but up till now, they have failed to do so. Until then, the judgment of the Federal High court in FHC/ABJ/CS/259/2014 delivered on March 9, 2016, which was not appealed by either party stands. This is what his lordship, Hon Justice Gabriel Kolawole said in delivering judgment in the suit by Femi Falana SAN the National Assembly was not created by drafters of the Constitution and imbued with the powers to receive budget estimates which the first defendant is constitutionally empowered to prepare and lay before it, as a rubber stamp parliament. The whole essence of the budget estimates being required to be laid before Parliament is to enable it, being the Assembly of the representatives of the people, to debate the said budget proposals and to make its own well informed legislative inputs into it. President Muhammadu Buhari has made it known that he does not rate the Senate President Bukola Saraki and The Speaker of the House, Yakubu Dogara, high. According to Buhari; I told Saraki and Dogara that by holding the budget for 7 months, youre not hurting me, youre hurting Nigerians? In terms of patriotism, I rate them very very low. On an interview on Monday night, the president said the national assembly, led by Saraki and Dogara held Nigeria ransom for seven months due to their refusal to pass the budget. The president stated that the national assembly did this to show they were the government and not the executive On his thoughts about the delayed budget passage, the President said: Following the comment by President Muhammadu Buhari that he rates the duo of Senate President Bukola Saraki and Yakubu Dogara, Speaker of the House of Representative low in terms of patriotism, Nigerians have fired heavy shots at him. What they are saying: If only you know how we rate you, Ajala the Traveller! MalemaSankara (@Evergre19608021) May 27, 2019 https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js Says a man who led a coup GaLiLeo (@Lucasscot_101) May 27, 2019 https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js Imagine this man rating anything or anyone in this life? I guess he is misconstruing patriotism to mean loyalty to the President or political parties? No sir! Patriotism is loyalty to country. Raymond Nnamdi Obi (@RaymondNnamdiO2) May 28, 2019 https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js Nigerians shouldnt take Pre-Buhari serious because he always claimed to know nothing (Mr. Im not aware) Thats what they asked him to say Lifeless man Wahab Shola Muibi (@wahabmuibi) May 28, 2019 https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js BB Naija star, Ifu Ennada, has taken another swipe at Instagram blogger, Blessing Okoro, after mocking her for lying to buy a house on her birthday. Ifu Ennada who dropped a shade for Okoro Blessing after she admitted that she never built any house, had also dropped another after she got arrested for turning up at the property to make the bogus claim again. The BB Naija star prayed that social media doesnt kill us before our time. She also told entrepreneurs to never let anyone on social media, make them feel they are not doing enough. Also Read: Check Out Celebrities Who Turned Up For IK Osakioduwas #GOT40 Themed Dress Code Party She wrote; And when I uncover that they are not hard, I will try and trace who is responsible for the slowness in terms of commanders of police from DPOs upward. The IG alone cannot do everything, he has to depend on commissioners and the commissioners have to depend on DPOs. A former aide to ex-president Goodluck Jonathan, Reno Omokri is of the opinion that men who earn well have proven to be more appealing to women than men who just have a fit body. Omokri used Ned MNwoko, the 63-year-old husband of young actress Regina Daniels as an example, saying Ned has proven that men with six-pack are not as attractive as men who earn six figures. Via his Twitter page this morning, Omookri wrote; Racists feel empowered: I was watching the news about the black kid going to college in Boulder, Col., and how the cops treated him. The cops said they noticed him sitting on the patio. They drew guns on him and wouldnt believe who he was until, guess what, a white lady said he lived there. The president of the United States is personally responsible for a lot of this rhetoric going on right now. He sends the wrong message to America. Being a black man, I grew up in the South. I have a lot of reasons to hate, but its not in my heart to hate. I was raised in a Christian family. I was taught not to hate no matter what a person does. I dont like people who do other people harm or do wrong, but I dont hate people. The president empowers racist people. Rotimi Amaechi, minister of transportation, has described a recent comment by Peter Obi, vice-presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), against him as sad and cheap. The minister on Tuesday, while speaking during an interactive forum of maritime stakeholders in Lagos, on Tuesday, said Obi has no right to call him irrelevant Especially since his Obis party, the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) failed to win the presidential election. Amaechi had said earlier that the Igbo have nothing to negotiate for 2023 presidency And reacting to this, Obi said Amaechi has no locus to speak on 2023 presidency for the Igbo because he isnt from the region. Amaechi is not from the southeast, so he cannot speak for us. He is not in any position to make such a statement because even him that is in APC, he did not contribute anything to the success of that election, he had said. He did not even achieve anything in his own state. Those of us from the southeast who are from the PDP contributed to the success of our party. Reacting to Obis comment, Amaechi said even Obi has no locus to speak on the matter because both he and PDP failed to win the last presidential election. Peter Obi said Im not an Igbo man and that I dont have the locus to discuss whether Igbo presidency will be or not in 2023. That comment is a very sad and cheap one from him, Amaechi said. H said: But the truth is that Peter Obi to does not have the locus to speak about Igbo presidency because he and his party couldnt win the presidential election. Aside from that, its most unfortunate that Peter Obi, a man I defeated to become the chairman of Nigeria Governors Forum(NGF), when we were both governors, can wake up today to say I am not relevant in the polity to talk about national issues when journalists ask me questions about it. He added: I think what is important which I have said to the Igbo several times is that they need to be part of national politics. If they are not part of national politics, they cannot be president. National politics means that an Ikwerre man must have his interest covered by the Igbo if they want to be president. The Yoruba man must have the Igbo cover their interests, the Hausa, Fulani people must also be confident that their interests are covered by the Igbo. I support Igbo presidency. I believe that its the Igbo turn to produce the next president of Nigeria because they have not been there before. The country will be unfair to the Igbo if they say its not their turn. But it cant be your turn and you dont want to fight for it. You want us to wake you up from sleep and say come and take, it is your turn? It doesnt work like that and it will not work that way. So, Peter Obi should close his mouth. He lost an election which I won and thats why President Buhari, not Atiku will be sworn-in tomorrow as president. President Muhammadu Buhari has lambasted both the Senate President, Bukola Saraki and the Speaker of the House of Representative, Yakubu Dogara, over the slow passage of the 2018 budget. Buhari who spoke while on Nigeria Television Authority(NTA) added that their actions make him rate them very low in terms of patriotism to Nigeria. What he wrote: President @MBuhari on the 7 months it took to pass the 2018 budget: I asked Saraki and Dogara, how do they feel holding the budget to ransom, for seven months. Its not me theyre hurting, its the entire country. In terms of patriotism,m I rated them very low. A former minister of Aviation, Femi Fani- Kayode has said that Nigeria must tend unreserved apology to the Igbo people and the South East for the civil war. According to the former minister, while speaking via several tweets on Tuesday morning, 3 million Igbos that died in the civil war and that one million of them were children. Fani Kayode described the civil war which lasted from 1967 to 1970 as the greatest act of black on black genocide on the African continent in history. He said that things will continue to go bad in the country unless the people and leadership of Nigeria truly apologise for what they did to the Igbo during the time. What he said Nigeria must offer an unreserved apology to the Igbo people of the SE for the genocide, ethnic cleansing and mass murder that was unleashed on them during the civil war. 3 million Biafran were slaughtered(1 million of them children) in the space of 3 years during that conflict. This represents the greatest act of black on black genocide on the African continent in history. It is only surpassed, in terms of casualties, by the bestial acts of King Leopold 11 of Belgium when he and his subjects slaughtered 10 million Congolese during the colonial era. Nothing can go right in Nigeria till a genuine and heartfelt expression of regret for what we did to the Biafrans is tendered by the leadership and people of our country and some form of restitution and compensation is made. The mass murder, ethnic cleansing and genocide. we are witnessing today in Nigeria and which is being inflicted on us by a callous, brutal, heartless, cold-blooded and wicked horde of strangers and homicidal maniacs that came from a foreign land 200 years ago is a spiritual consequence of what we did to the Biafrans in the war. The only way that the carnage and bloodfest can be stopped and the vicious and endless cycle of violence can be broken is when we repent for what we did to those innocent and defenceless Biafran civilians during the civil war and apologize for it. Until then Nigeria will continue to wallow in blood, death, sorrow, failure, shame, poverty and carnage. Why? Because we are a nation under Gods judgement. Hog Market Mixed at Close Barchart - Tue Dec 28, 4:43PM CST At the closing bell for the Tuesday session, lean hog futures were 32 to 52 cents higher in the summer contracts, while the nearbys dropped as much as $1.02. Feb is now a $4.92 discount to April and a... HEG22 : 82.625s (-1.23%) HEK22 : 92.175s (+0.35%) KMG22 : 92.650s (-0.75%) Soy Market Mixed at Close Barchart - Tue Dec 28, 4:43PM CST Afternoon trading for soybeans left the board 2 1/4 to 3 1/2 cents red on the day. Beans were up by double digits during the session, setting new highs for the move. Soymeal also faded into the close,... CSF22 : 177-6s (+2.16%) ZSF22 : 1356-4 (-0.20%) ZSPAUS.CM : 13.2546 (-0.27%) ZSH22 : 1365-0 (-0.22%) ZSX21 : 1234-0s (+1.79%) ZSPX21US.CM : 12.3270 (+1.90%) Cattle Close Higher on Tuesday Barchart - Tue Dec 28, 4:43PM CST Cattle finished the day with 5 to 27 cent gains in the front months. The December contract rallied $1.17 on the day though OI was just 1,530 contracts as of Mondays settle. The contract rolls off the... LEZ21 : 138.475s (+0.86%) LEJ22 : 143.950s (+0.19%) GFF22 : 163.550s (+0.71%) GFH22 : 165.225s (+1.19%) Crude Oil Closes at a 1-Month High on Strong Energy Demand Barchart - Tue Dec 28, 4:02PM CST February WTI crude oil (CLG22 ) on Tuesday closed up +0.41 (+0.54%), and February RBOB gasoline (RBG22 ) closed up +1.56 (+0.70%). WTI crude oil and RBOB gasoline prices on Tuesday extended Monday's rally... CLG22 : 76.13 (+0.20%) RBG22 : 2.2538 (+0.35%) Light Holiday Trading Volume May Send Nasdaq Lower? Cannon Trading - Tue Dec 28, 3:18PM CST Light Trading Volume ahead of NYE may help send NASDAQ lower before the end of the year. Nat-Gas Prices Fall Back on a Milder U.S. Weather Outlook Barchart - Tue Dec 28, 2:10PM CST February Nymex natural gas (NGG22) on Tuesday closed down by -0.057 (-1.45%). Natural gas prices on Tuesday fell back from a 2-week high and closed moderately lower. Nat-gas prices on Tuesday gave up... Cocoa Prices Close Higher on Cocoa Demand Optimism Barchart - Tue Dec 28, 1:49PM CST March ICE NY cocoa (CCH22 ) on Tuesday closed up +24 (+0.98%). March ICE London cocoa #7 (CAH22 ) closed up +1 (+0.06%). Cocoa prices on Tuesday closed slightly higher on optimism that the global economy... CCH22 : 2,485s (+0.98%) CAH22 : 1,681s (+0.06%) Read more: ACCC calls for insurance reforms in northern Australia Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said the high cost of premiums in the north is also due to the way GST and stamp duty are levied on insurance policies. As if paying double for our premiums isnt bad enough, the problem is compounded by the fact that the state and federal governments also apply stamp duty and GST charges on top of this impost. Why should the north pay double the tax on our insurance? Hill said. In [the] councils submission, were saying that the taxes should be levied on the insured amount rather than the insurers calculated premium which is currently the case. But we also need the insurance industry to give people a fair go. The proposed case study seeks to help reduce the impact of insurance costs and shine a light on the shortcomings of the insurance industry an idea the Townsville mayor said is supported by the Insurance Council of Australia. Detailed data on the plight of the north on insurance is important to reduce the impact of insurance costs and shine a light on the shortcomings of the insurance industry, Hill said. Thats why the enormous impact of this years natural disaster and the experience of the citys residents, both good and bad, is a prime opportunity for the ACCC to conduct a sub-regional case study on the city. Our submission puts forward the call for the ACCC to work with council, the community, and the insurance industry to reduce the impact of insurance costs. As part of our broader recovery effort, the council is liaising with insurers, residents, and the Insurance Council of Australia on the insurance Industrys response. A jury found that Risoldi and her family conspired to scam insurers after three fires at her estate between 2009 and 2013, the Inquirer reported. Risoldi and her family sought payment for items on which theyd already collected insurance money. She also increased coverage on pieces of jewelry shortly before the third fire in 2018, the Inquirer reported. All told, Risoldi allegedly scammed nearly $13 million from her insurers. Risoldi and five others including her husband, Thomas French were charged in 2015. French committed suicide shortly afterward, leaving a note insisting on his innocence, according to the Inquirer. Risoldis attorney, Jack McMahon, told the Inquirer that he planned to appeal the sentence. A worker has been seriously injured at a construction site in Lynn, Mass. Lynn Deputy Fire Chief Arthur Richard says the 38-year-old man was taken by helicopter Friday morning to a Boston hospital after suffering the injuries. Officials say a large section of reinforcing iron, or rebar, collapsed around 8:30 a.m. as it was being lowered into a hole at the site of a 10-story apartment building under construction. The worker, who has not been named, was trapped under the iron and firefighters had to use a heavy mechanical saw to free him. Richard told The Lynn Daily Item the worker was alert and conscious when he was rescued but very seriously injured. About 20 other workers were in the area but werent harmed. Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Massachusetts Training Development Construction A former New Haven employee has pleaded guilty to embezzling more than $100,000 from the Connecticut city. Daniel Lion, of Hamden, pleaded guilty to a federal wire fraud charge Wednesday. Court documents say New Haven employed the 64-year-old Lion for about 40 years, most recently as a payroll department analyst. Federal prosecutors say he used the citys accounting software to issue extra paychecks over about 16 years. Lion would cut himself vacation paychecks and then delete those entries, causing the system to also issue his regular paycheck. Lion was on sick leave for months after a heart attack and heart surgery last year. He retired in March before the city was to a hold a hearing prior to firing him. He faces up to 21 months in prison. Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The Chinese government is taking a major step in its efforts to sell a strategic stake in Anbang Insurance Group Co., the acquisitive insurer it took over last year amid a fraud investigation into its former chairman. Under a plan overseen by the industry regulator, most of Anbangs businesses will be moved into a newly created company called Dajia Baoxian, people with knowledge of the matter said. Some policies sold by Anbangs property insurance unit wont be transferred to the new entity, the people said, asking not to be identified discussing sensitive information. To make Anbangs business more palatable to strategic investors, regulators are stripping out investment-type policies its property unit sold in excess of quotas assigned by the government, the people said. Those policies had been a key hurdle in discussions with potential investors because of uncertainty about how they should be handled, one person said. Chinas government, which took the rare step of taking over Anbang in early 2018 as former Chairman Wu Xiaohui was being prosecuted for fraud, wants to reduce its ownership by February next year. The China Banking & Insurance Regulatory Commission, Anbangs ultimate custodian, didnt respond to a fax seeking comment. The Waldorf During a two-year acquisition binge through 2016 that included New Yorks iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotel, Anbang became synonymous with Chinas unbridled appetite for overseas trophy assets. The companys swift fall from grace was capped by Wus 18-year prison sentence in May last year. Court documents made public during Wus trial showed the property unit had sold 724 billion yuan ($105 billion) worth of investment products in excess of government-approved quotas through early 2017. Such contracts typically offer yields well above regular bank deposits while providing limited insurance coverage for accidental injury or death. The amount cited in court documents might since have shrunk as some policies expired. It isnt clear whether property assets Anbang bought over the years, including the Waldorf, will be also injected into Dajia Baoxian or sold separately. Anbang is selling Strategic Hotels & Resorts Inc., a U.S. luxury hotel chain it bought in 2016. The Waldorf isnt part of Strategic Hotels. Everyone Insurance Anbangs risk disposal work is proceeding orderly, the company said in a statement last month as it announced plans to reduce registered capital by about a third. The move is part of Anbangs strategic restructuring, it said without elaborating. The company has already made some headway selling assets, including a Belgian insurer, a leasing business and a securities firm. But the government has been quiet on progress in seeking fresh strategic investors for the company itself. Bloomberg News reported in October that Cerberus Capital Management LP, Swiss Re AG and Temasek Holdings Pte were among parties that have held preliminary discussions about buying a stake in Anbang. Dajia Baoxian, which translates to Everyone Insurance, will engage in businesses ranging from insurance underwriting to consulting and brokering, according to trademark applications filed over the past six months by Sino-Ocean Bangbang Real Estate Co., a joint venture between Anbang and Sino-Ocean Group Holding Ltd. The applications, posted on the website of the National Intellectual Property Administrations trademark office, didnt mention plans to inject Anbang assets into Dajia. Strategy Shift Following the state takeover and Wus imprisonment, Anbang is seeking to turn itself into a traditional insurer less dependent on investment products sold to Chinas millions of yield-hungry savers. Its a tall order. Revenue from traditional life insurance policies tumbled 90% last year as Wus legal woes scared away customers and the company tried to sell longer-term products, people with knowledge of the matter said. Such policies accounted for less than 10% of the life units revenue. Investment-type policies made up more than 90% after sales jumped four times to a near-record. Seeking to turbocharge a recovery, Anbang plans to rely on Chinas more than 2,600 professional insurance agencies and brokers to sell its life policies, according to Yang Xiaoling, a vice president in charge of the life insurance arm. Anbang relies almost entirely on bancassurance, or bank-counter sales of mostly short-term investment products that provide attractive yields but little risk protection for the buyer. It was such policies that supercharged Anbangs growth and gave it the firepower to pursue billion-dollar acquisitions. Weakest Link While bancassurance is our strength, individual life is Anbang Lifes weakest link, Yang told scores of insurance agencies and brokers invited from around the country at a forum earlier this month in Beijing. The agency channel is the fast lane for insurers to enter new segments of the market, and it could have a management cost advantage if handled properly. While the nations big insurers all rely on their own agent forces, with China Life Insurance Co. and Ping An Insurance (Group) Co. each hiring more than 1 million agents, agencies at the forum in Beijing were optimistic they can help Anbang spur long-term policy sales by forming strategic alliances to sell tailored products. You can sail in a borrowed boat, said Chen Shaohua, a general manager at YingHai Insurance Agency Co., using a Chinese idiom which means success can be found by employing outside help. Assuming it can develop the right products and has government support, Anbang can rise again in a year, she said. Stability Concern Rapid expansion with external agencies that also sell other insurers policies means Anbang will need to have a suite of competitive products and commissions, according to Steven Lam, a Hong Kong-based analyst with Bloomberg Intelligence. Stability of agency relationships can be a concern, he said. James Chang, the head of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLPs China financial services consulting practice, said its important for firms to seek cooperation in the digital era because many insurance services can be outsourced. By working with external partners, everybody becomes more professional, more efficient, and customer experience can also improve, he said. The key is at the implementation level, and how to achieve a seamless connection. Related: Copyright 2021 Bloomberg. Topics Agencies Property China A New York appeals court has dismissed a U.S. whistleblowers $20 million libel suit against Swiss bank UBS, his former employer, concluding that statements the Zurich-based bank made about him were at least substantially true. Court documents dated May 21 showed that the appeals court upheld an earlier ruling dismissing claims that Bradley Birkenfeld brought against the bank in 2017, in which he accused UBS of acting with malice in making statements about him to the media. Birkenfeld spent 2-1/2 years in prison for helping a billionaire client evade taxes, but got a $104 million award from U.S. tax authorities for his role as a whistleblower. He had provided tips that led to UBS being fined $780 million in 2010 by U.S. authorities for helping wealthy Americans hide up to $20 billion. In his libel lawsuit in the New York state court in Manhattan, Birkenfeld contended that UBS sought to block his efforts to expose the banks decades-long wrongdoing and to undercut credibility and sales of a book he had written. In statements to U.S. media, UBS had called Birkenfelds book an often unsubstantiated recollection and said he had been convicted of having lied to U.S. authorities. The appeals panel, in its decision this week, concluded that UBSs statements were not inaccurate. Birkenfeld admitted to illegal conduct, including, inter alia, that he prepared false and misleading IRS Forms and assisted wealthy U.S. clients in concealing their ownership of the assets held offshore,' the judges wrote. These admitted facts support the conclusion that (UBSs) quoted statements were, at a minimum, substantially true, if not absolutely true. A spokeswoman for UBS declined to comment. (Reporting by Brenna Hughes Neghaiwi, editing by John Miller and Susan Fenton) Topics Lawsuits USA Alibaba is considering raising as much as $20 billion through a listing in Hong Kong, people familiar with the matter told Reuters, lining up a second blockbuster deal following its 2014 record $25 billion float in New York. The deal, the biggest follow-on share sale in seven years globally, would give Alibaba a war chest to keep investing in technology a priority for China as growth flags and as the worlds second-largest economy is locked in a mounting trade spat with the United States. The e-commerce giant is working with financial advisers on the offering and is aiming to file an application confidentially in Hong Kong as early as the second half of 2019, three people said on condition of anonymity as the plans are not public yet. While advisers and others close to the deal downplayed any trade war reasoning for the move, analysts said the context and geography could not be ignored. For Chinese companies listed in the United States, one has to prepare a contingency plan, said Hao Hong, head of research at broker BOCOM International. Given most of the Alibaba investors are in Asia, it makes sense to come closer to your home base and give investors an option to trade in the same time zone. Last week, Chinese chipmaker SMIC said it was delisting its New York shares in favor of focusing on its Hong Kong listing. Sources with knowledge of Alibabas plans cautioned that many details were not yet clear, including the final planned size. One person with direct knowledge said it was more likely to be between $10 billion and $15 billion. At $20 billion, Alibabas deal would be the sixth-biggest follow-on share sale ever, Refinitiv data shows. It would rank behind NTTs 1987 $36.8 billion sale, crisis era offerings of $24.4 billion and $22.5 billion from the Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group, and the $20.7 billion raised by U.S. insurer AIG in 2012. A spokesman for Alibaba declined to comment. SoftBank Group, Alibabas largest investor, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Japanese tech investor has a 28.8% stake, worth $115.7 billion, in Alibaba after it sold a small part of its original holding via derivatives to fund its acquisition of chip designer ARM in a transaction that completes next month. SoftBank founder and CEO Masayoshi Son is a close friend of Alibaba founder Jack Ma. Bloomberg was the first to report the plan for a Hong Kong listing. (https://bloom.bg/2YRpEdi) Added Liquidity Since its U.S. listing, Alibaba has nearly doubled in size to become the largest-listed Chinese company with a market value of more than $400 billion. A Hong Kong listing would give mainland investors their first direct access to one of Chinas biggest success stories, via the stock connect trading link between Hong Kong, Shanghai and Shenzhen. It would also give the company an extra pocket of liquidity and potentially a better valuation if the household name became a favorite among retail investors in Hong Kong. A Hong Kong-based analyst said while Alibaba is not in need of cash, the listing could help it improve its access to loans from Asian banks. It means closer access to Chinese investors, and maybe Chinese investors are more bullish than the global investors in Alibaba, the analyst added. Rival Tencent, which is listed in Hong Kong, is trading at 26 times its expected earnings compared with Alibabas 22 times in New York, according to Refinitiv data. A Hong Kong listing for Alibaba would come as its 54-year-old founder prepares to step down as chairman in September, handing over the mantle to CEO Daniel Zhang. The company is also expanding into new sectors including cloud computing division and Hema, its chain of brick-and-mortar supermarkets as growth in its core e-commerce business slows. The listing would provide Alibaba with additional capital to fund its new and expensive initiatives, said James Hull, founder of Hullx capital and co-host of the China Tech investor podcast. Alibaba has strong and growing free cash flow, but theyre also pursuing cash-hungry new initiatives, he added. Homecoming An Alibaba float would be seen in Hong Kong as a victory, after the city lost the tech giants initial public offering to New York because its then rules precluded it accepting Alibabas governance structure, where a self-selecting group of senior managers control the majority of board appointments. Any big listing would also be a bonus to the citys traders. With such a big market cap, it will enhance the daily trading volume attract more funds into the market thats exciting many investors, said Steven Leung, a director at UOB Kay Hian in Hong Kong. Hong Kong amended its rules last year to make it easier for innovative companies already listed in New York or London to sell shares in Hong Kong, as part of a broader shake up of the citys listing regime. The new rules allow companies based in greater China to list in the city even if their current weighted voting rights structures contravene Hong Kongs rules for primary listings. Such companies can also apply confidentially for a listing, as Alibaba is expected to do. A spokesman for HKEX declined to comment on news of Alibabas listing plans in Hong Kong. (Reporting by Kane Wu, Sumeet Chatterjee and Julie Zhu in Hong Kong, Josh Horwitz in Shanghai and Saumya Sibi Joseph and Aditi Sebastian in Bengaluru; additional reporting by Alun John and Donny Kwok in Hong Kong, and Sam Nussey in Tokyo; writing by Jennifer Hughes; editing by Himani Sarkar) Topics USA Tech New York China The cost of UK motor theft claims paid by insurers in the first quarter rose by more 20% from the same period last year, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI). The ABI report revealed that the number of Q1 motor theft claims paid by insurers were at their highest for any quarter since 2012, with a payment made to a car crime victim every 8 minutes. Rising vehicle crime in the UK is being driven in part by keyless car crime, with hi-tech criminals being able to bypass keyless technology in as little as 20 seconds, said the ABI, quoting figures from the Master Locksmiths Association. Findings from the ABIs latest quarterly motor insurance claims report include: Insurers settled 16,000 claims for the theft of or from a vehicle, which was up from the 14,000 reported for the same period last year. The cost of theft payouts, at 108 million ($137 million), was up 22% on the same period last year, and works out at over 1.2 million ($1.5 million) paid to policyholders every day. In the last four years the overall cost of motor theft claims has doubled. Vehicle Repair Costs The report also shows that the cost of vehicle repairs, to both the vehicles of policyholders and those of third parties during the quarter, was 1.2 billion ($1.5 billion). This was the highest quarterly figure since the ABI started collecting this data back in 2013. The ABI said that higher repair bills reflect ever more sophisticated vehicle design and technology, which in most cases costs more to repair when damaged. For example, the ABI said, the cost of a headlamp for one popular model has risen by over 400% from 163 ($207) for the 2012-17 model range to 840 ($1,067) for the most recent model. Further, average replacement windscreen costs for another popular model have risen from 147 ($187) between 2008-9 to 468 ($594) for models registered after 2015, said the ABI, quoting replacement parts figures from Thatcham Research. Despite the cost pressures from increased theft and more expensive vehicle repairs, the average price paid for motor insurance currently stands at its lowest 466 in two years, according to the ABIs premium tracker. The ABI said this is likely to reflect some insurers passing on expected cost benefits in anticipation of the introduction of the Civil Liability Act reforms, which will deliver a fairer compensation system for claimants, and continued competitive premiums for motorists. Also, new vehicle registrations in March saw a rise in new cars purchased, typically by more mature, lower risk drivers. The continued growth in car crime must be reversed. Car security has come on leaps and bounds but needs to keep pace with the ingenuity of car criminals, said Laurenz Gerger, ABIs motor insurance policy adviser in a statement. The rising number of theft claims being paid by insurers in part reflects the vulnerability of some cars to keyless relay theft, Gerger added. Action by motor manufacturers to tackle this high-tech vulnerability, allied with owners taking some simple, inexpensive precautions will help put the brakes on this unwelcome trend. Keyless Car Theft Explained Passive keyless entry systems, which allow drivers to open and start their cars without removing the key fob from their pocket, can be exploited using a technique called the relay attack, explained the ABI. Usually operating in pairs, one criminal will hold a device up against the car, to capture the signal it sends out to the key. It then boosts this signal to another device by the front wall of the house, which relays the signal to the key inside, the ABI said. This fools the car and key into thinking they are within the 2-meter range of operation, allowing the car to be unlocked and started. Once started, the engine will not restart without the key present. Recent testing by Thatcham Research. gave 6 of the 11 vehicles launched this year a poor rating as the keyless entry/start system they have as an option has no security measures to prevent theft by criminals using the relay attack technique. The ABI provided three steps to reduce the risk of keyless car thefts: Park your car in a well-lit area Keep car keys well away from external doors or windows Turn off the signal overnight or keep the keys in a signal-block pouch. Source: Association of British Insurers Related: UK Insurers Pay Record 1 Million ($1.3 Million) Each Day for Vehicle Thefts: ABI Topics Carriers Auto Claims Fraud Michigans Legislature on May 24 passed a landmark bill that would cut the countrys highest auto insurance premiums by letting drivers forego a one-of-a-kind requirement to buy unlimited medical coverage for crash injuries. The votes followed the announcement of an agreement between Republican legislative leaders and Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. She said the legislation would guarantee rate reductions for every motorist and offer choices for personal injury protection, or PIP, levels. PIP, on average, makes up half of car premiums. The measure approved 94-15 by the House and 34-4 by the Senate also would prohibit the use of several non-driving factors in setting rates and scale back reimbursements for health providers that treat accident victims to 190% to 230% of what Medicare pays. Unlike several other no-fault insurance states, Michigan does not have a fee schedule for care covered by auto insurers. They pay much more for the same services than is paid by employer plans or government insurance such as Medicare or Medicaid. A driver choosing to stick with unlimited coverage would see a 10% PIP reduction. Someone who fully opted out would get a 100% cut, if they have health insurance, and potentially also avoid paying much of a $220 annual per-vehicle fee that reimburses car insurers when severely injured motorists expenses exceed a certain amount. People on Medicaid would have to get at least $50,000 in benefits and would pay 45% less. People picking one of two other options $250,000 or $500,000 of coverage would see a 35% or 20% reduction. The rollback in PIP rates would start in July 2020 and last for eight years. It could amount to $120 to $1,200 in savings for someone paying $2,400 annually per car, assuming the PIP fee accounts for half their bill, according to GOP projections. This is a win for the 7 million drivers across the state of Michigan who have been asking us for years to step up and provide a real solution to our broken car insurance system, said House Speaker Lee Chatfield, a Levering Republican, who called it a very historic day. Whitmer who took office this year also called it historic, saying it would help drivers from Detroit all the way to the Upper Peninsula. She urged the GOP-controlled Legislature to also work with her on a budget that includes new tax revenue for road fixes. The average premium in Michigan which is $2,693, according to the most recent report from The Zebra, an insurance comparison website is 83% higher than the national average of $1,470. Detroits premium on average is $5,464, far surpassing any other U.S. city. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, who filed a lawsuit last year asking that the 1973 no-fault law be declared unconstitutional for failing to provide fair and equitable insurance rates, said the bipartisan agreement is outstanding and will cut rates for Michigan drivers significantly. Despite the deal, some Democrats voted no. Rep. Sherry Gay-Dagnogo of Detroit said proposed bans on the use of credit scores and ZIP codes as rating factors would not go far enough because insurers could still base premiums by territory and use drivers credit-related information. She said Whitmer worked to do the best that she could do, but should veto the bill. In order for us to get to its best current form would be to remove territorial rating. Thats the true root cause of redlining, she said. How we treat our citizens across the state fairly thats been her commitment on the trail, thats been mine, thats been my colleagues I think for us to deviate from that today says something about our value statement. But another Democrat from Detroit, Rep. Karen Whitsett, said her constituents pay the most expensive premiums in the U.S. This day means the world to me and my district because finally finally they can get the relief that they need and so desperately deserve, she said. The compromise came the same week that billionaire businessman Dan Gilbert took initial steps toward launching a ballot drive as a failsafe in case the Legislature and governor did not enact legislation. The move would have enabled GOP lawmakers to overhaul the insurance law without having to worry about a gubernatorial veto. Officials whose industries would be affected by the overhaul were critical of it. Insurers questioned whether the bill would live up to the savings promised to drivers. Hospitals expressed concerns about the long-term impact of reductions in medical coverage. And a coalition fighting to protect the no-fault law called the measure a sell-out of Michigan citizens and a gift to the insurance industry. Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, a Clarklake Republican, countered that while the legislation is not perfect, the fact that various competing interests had concerns shows we hit the sweet spot. Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Legislation Auto Michigan Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has acquired Zionsville, Indiana-based Cairnstone Financial LLC. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 2010, Cairnstone Financial is a benefits consultant offering group health, life, wellness, retirement, disability and dental coverages and services to middle-market clients across the Midwestern United States. Mark Shrack and his associates will continue to operate from their current location under the direction of John Neumaier, head of Gallaghers Great Lakes region employee benefits consulting and brokerage operations. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., a global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm, is headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. Source: Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Topics Mergers A.J. Gallagher Indiana A single Republican House member temporarily blocked fast-track passage Friday of a $19 billion disaster-aid plan, likely meaning lawmakers will vote when they return in early June from a week-long recess. Freshman Representative Chip Roy of Texas objected to the Houses plan to pass the measure without a recorded vote, a day after almost all members left Washington for their home districts. The House is scheduled to return on June 3 and will be able to hold a roll-call vote. The measure, H.R. 2157 which would aid areas hit by hurricanes, Midwest floods and California wildfires already has been held up for about six months in a disagreement over funds for Puerto Rico. The legislation also provides $3 billion in aid for farmers, including payments to producers prevented from planting crops by this years Midwestern floods, or who lost crops in storage because of the flooding. Roy said on the House floor theres no reason why the bill shouldnt also include border funds sought by President Donald Trump. In addition, he said, This is a $19 billion bill that is not paid for by cuts elsewhere in the budget. The peoples House should vote on the bill, Roy told reporters. The Senate passed the measure on Thursday, and the House had planned to send it to Trump on Friday. The president said he supported it, dropping his demand to add funds to deal with the influx of migrants at the U.S. border with Mexico. House Appropriations Chairwoman Nita Lowey, a Democrat, said in a statement, It is deeply disappointing that House Republicans are now making disaster victims wait even longer to get the help they need. Democratic Representative Donna Shalala of Florida said her party will try again to use the fast-track procedure this week in an effort to pass the measure before the full House returns. If Roy remains in Washington and again objects, House leaders plan to bring the bill to a regular vote the following week. The bill would extend the National Flood Insurance Program, which is set to expire May 31, for four months. If it continues to be stalled next week, the House has the option to fast-track a separate measure dealing just with the insurance program. Copyright 2021 Bloomberg. Topics Legislation Flood Politics Glatfelter Program Managers has unveiled a new workers compensation program now available in most states. The new program gives clients and agents access to Glatfelters industry-specialized risk management team and online safety library, medical management services to help identify hazards and decrease spending, technology systems to analyze claim-based data, teams devoted to legal resolution and claims management tools. This coverage is available through three of Glatfelters divisions: Glatfelter Healthcare Practice, Glatfelter Public Practice and Glatfelter Religious Practice. The programs serve a range of industries, including home healthcare agencies, hospice organizations, senior living facilities, schools, water systems, independent school bus contractors, miscellaneous public entities, churches, synagogues, mosques and temples. Workers compensation is available for most lines of coverage in all states expect Alaska, Hawaii, Ohio, N.D., Wash., and Wyo. Glatfelter Program Managers, a division of Glatfelter Insurance Group, is a manager and specialist of niche commercial insurance markets in the U.S. Glatfelter programs provide industry-specialized coverages for emergency service organizations, public entities, healthcare organization, houses of worship and specialty benefits. The company was acquired by AIG last fall. Topics Workers' Compensation Talent Kansas farmer Mark Nelson has until Saturday to plant his corn or lose the insurance that protects him from a drop in prices or yield. Instead, hes hopping on a plane to visit his father in Chicago. Nelson is now considering a different type of insurance coverage known as prevented-plant claims, which pay out when farmers are unable to sow crops at all. With unceasing rain keeping farmers out of fields, growers are increasingly weighing how best to get paid and ease the impact from the bad weather and an escalating U.S.-China trade war. You hate to farm for insurance, but in a year like this, you keep that in the back of your mind, Nelson, whose farm is near the east-central town of Paola, said by phone. Storms across the Midwest and Great Plains have resulted in the wettest 12-month stretch on record in the U.S., with the deluge closing refineries and snarling Mississippi River traffic. Crucially for agriculture markets, its also hampered crop planting. Worries over tighter supplies due to the soggy weather drove Chicago corn futures to surge as much as 3.9% on Friday, topping $4 a bushel and rising to the highest level in almost a year. The wet weathers showing no signs of easing, and the insurance deadline for sowing has already passed for some farmers in southwestern Missouri, southeastern Kansas and western Tennessee. They now have to decide whether to plant with less coverage, or make prevented-plant claims. Further complicating matters is President Donald Trumps announcement on Thursday that farmers could apply for a slice of a $16 billion aid package to mitigate the impact of the U.S.-China trade war. However, in order to qualify, farmers must plant crops. Then, payments will depend on production in the their county. The Senate also passed a $19.1 billion natural disaster relief package that includes $3 billion related to the loss of crops in recent hurricanes, flooding and for seeds prevented from planting this year. A Republican House member temporarily blocked fast-track passage, meaning lawmakers will probably vote when they return in early June from a week-long recess. Farmers unable to plant have been estimating which government-backed program might pay the most. Nelson only has 400 acres of corn planted and 1,700 more to go. He loses all insurance protection on corn if not planted by June 14, and if that happens, hes considering switching some ground to soybeans, which can be planted later without risking a crop loss in an early freeze. After the deadline, farmers can choose to switch to a second crop. But thatll reduce the amount they will receive from the prevented-plant claim on the first crop. I talked with my crop insurance agent to make sure I knew all the scenarios, Nelson said. Until June 14, weve got the option to still plant and get some coverage. Moving On BMO Capital Markets equity analyst Joel Jackson said the lack of plantings have also weighed on demand for agriculture chemicals and fertilizers. Weve seen views projecting at least 5 million corn acres will not be planted, he said in an emailed report. The U.S. Department of Agriculture in March estimated corn planted acres at 92.8 million. Iowa corn and soybean farmer Kyle Wendland has planted most of his crops, but was leaning toward making a prevented-plant claim for his final 80 acres of corn due to wet conditions. The government aid payments will not be a big swing factor, he said. Im not going to mud my crop in just to get an unknown payment. I will take the known insurance payment and move on, Wendland said. With assistance from Dominic Carey, Mike Dorning and Shruti Date Singh. Topics USA Agribusiness Life Begins At 50 Thanks to my husband who reminds me constantly, I am officially 50 years old. I still remember the moment when my mom told my father: you are almost 40! and the moment when I told my father: Life begins at 50! I never truly understood their feelings, their past youth and their unfulfilled dreams. What I comforted my father indeed reflects the way I saw them at that time: they were old in my eyes. Now, at my age of 50, what about MY life? The first 30 years I could safely say I lived for other people: my parents first, my husband and my son later on. That is to say, I first gave up my opportunities for an abroad education, then settled in in a well paid but unchallenging job for my own familys sake. I was told to do this and that, and I really didnt know what I wanted for myself. By the way, who does when you are young and from a traditional Chinese family? However, I was such a restless person, getting bored quickly with my job and my predictable future for the next 30 years. I think at that time I made the best decision in my entire life: emigrate to Canada. 06/2000 The photo above was taken a year before my leaving for Canada, I look lost, not very happy, meanwhile was determined to make a change. We gave up everything, including my husbands promising business. We moved into a small one-bedroom apartment in Toronto, Canada. In no time I started to learn to cook and take care of my 4-year-old son. Of course, no nanny anymore. The following 10 years was the most struggling period in my life. There were challenges domestically, challenges to fit in a new culture, speak a new language, and most importantly, challenges to find myself. Many times I was advised to send my son back to China, but I resisted. I wouldn't like to let another nanny look after him, "he is MY son, we go through ups and downs together." I still remember that every Tuesday, as soon as my class was over after 6pm, I would rush into the KFC to buy a meal for my son, who got picked up after school by a Chinese grandma I paid hourly. I remember one snowy Tuesday evening in the darkness, when walking with my son on the ice-covered sidewalk, I welled up for my own misery. My father stopped by on his business trip, only cried out: you live like those migrant peasants! To my great comfort, my son always thinks he had a fun childhood. In retrospect all those years together were our happiest time! Pain has no memory indeed. For the past 18 years, Ive learned: As long as I have a dream, dream does come true if I pursue it hard! Be an individual, do Not let anyone tell me what I am and what I want; Always take care of myself first; and devoted to my family; Take my job seriously; work productively; Be an expert at my work, as well as at my hobbies; Always be kind to others, always encourage, encourage, and encourage; Grow together with my husband; Be positive no matter what. I do become a new person, happier and healthier. 50 years old 03/2019 05/2019 Life does begin at 50! Take pride and enjoy! Texas property insurer of last resort for wind and hail along the Texas coast voted at a May 24, 2019, meeting of its board of directors to withdraw a 10% rate increase filed last year that was subsequently put on hold by the states governor. The board had approved the rate increase in early August 2018, nearly a year after Hurricane Harvey devastated the state in 2017. The increase, if it had been allowed to go forward, would have been effective beginning on Jan. 1 of this year. Commissioner Kent Sullivan had until Oct. 15, 2018, to approve or disapprove the filing or simply allow it to go into effect. Coastal lawmakers balked at the rate increase, however, sending a letter to Commissioner Sullivan asking that TWIA filing not be approved. In the letter, members of Texas coastal legislative delegation said the 10 percent rate increase would be unfair, excessive and unreasonable for coastal residents who continue to struggle to recover from Hurricane Harvey. Governor Greg Abbott subsequently weighed in, sending a letter to Sullivan, dated Oct. 12, 2018, putting the rate filing on hold until June 16, 2019. In his letter to Sullivan, Abbott also said a rate increase at that time would be unfair to Texas coastal residents who were still recovering from Harvey. Abbott said he wanted state lawmakers to have an opportunity to address any actuarial deficiency in TWIA in the legislative session that began in January. TWIA noted at the time of the filing that the average premium on a TWIA residential policy was around $1,600; a 10 percent rate hike would have raised the premium for the average residential policy by $160. The rate increase would have applied to both residential and commercial policies. Rate Filing Withdrawal At the May 24 board meeting TWIA General Manager John Polak explained that although it was the organizations understanding that the August 2018 filing had been deemed approved, that is, it had not been disapproved by the Oct. 15, 2018, approval/disapproval date, there are problems with the filing as a result of the suspension that need to be resolved before it could become effective. The main issue, Polak said, is the question of what would be the effective date of the filing? It would be problematic to try to use the original effective date for a number of reasons. One, we would be retroactively charging policyholders a rate increase. Were not sure from a legal perspective, given our contract, that were able to do that, he said. He added the board has a couple of alternatives for dealing with the dilemma of the effective date. One, we need to withdraw the filing completely and come back in August for our annual filing. Or amend that filing in various ways, in other words amend the amount and amend the effective date. The first option is a little cleaner and provides more certainty, Polak said. The board voted to withdraw the filing and revisit the issue of a rate increase at its August 6, 2019, meeting in Galveston. At the May 24 meeting, TWIAs board also approved a plan to refinance outstanding balance of the $500 M in Class 1 public securities issued in 2014. On its website, TWIA said it used the proceeds of the issued Class 1 bonds to pay policyholders Hurricane Harvey claims. The outstanding balance may be refinanced early without penalty beginning July 1, 2019. The association will work with the Texas Public Finance Authority and the Texas Department of Insurance on the refinancing effort. Related: Topics Carriers Catastrophe Natural Disasters Trends Texas Legislation Windstorm Pricing Trends State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co. said it plans to cut overall personal auto rates in West Virginia by 5.5%. The expected total statewide impact for State Farm Mutual by this rate decrease in West Virginia will be approximately $17.7 million, the insurer said in a statement. State Farms last overall rate change in West Virginia was a decrease of 3% in August of 2018. According to State Farm Senior Vice President Chris Schell, the largest auto insurer in West Virginia was able to offer the rate decrease thanks to lower than expected expenses and losses. Overall changes in premiums for individual motorists will vary depending on the specific details of an individual customers policy and chosen coverages. The effective date for new and renewal business is May 27, 2019. West Virginia customers with questions can contact their local State Farm agent to discuss their individual situation. In addition to this rate reduction, State Farm agents can review with new and existing customers opportunities for additional discounts that may apply to an individuals unique circumstances. State Farm and its affiliates are the largest providers of auto and home insurance in the United States. Its nearly 19,000 agents and approximately 65,000 employees serve approximately 83 million policies and accounts approximately 81 million auto, fire, life, health and commercial policies and approximately 2 million bank accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with coverage for renters, business owners, boats and motorcycles, is available. Source: State Farm Topics Auto Virginia West Virginia is set to get $106 million in federal disaster relief money. U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin on Thursday said the state would be getting the funds as part of a federal grant. The West Virginia Democrat says the money was already approved by Congress and the president but had been caught up in bureaucratic red tape. In 2016, thunderstorms drenched parts of the state and caused widespread flooding. Twenty-three people died, scores of homes were damaged and infrastructure was destroyed. U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart announced this month that he was investigating the use of federal disaster relief funds given to West Virginia after that flood. His probe follows a state audit on the misuse of the money that resulted in criminal charges against current and former officials of Richwood. Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Flood Virginia ICW Group Insurance Cos. has named Todd Hartline vice president of information technology. Hartline, who will lead the companys IT function, will be based in the ICW Group corporate headquarters in San Diego and report to John Novak, ICW Groups chief operating and strategic execution officer. Hartline has 20 years of IT experience. Before joining ICW Group, Hartline was chief information officer and vice president of information technology at Admiral insurance. Prior to Admiral Insurance, he was senior director of software development & application portfolio management at Liberty Mutual. ICW Group is a largest privately held insurance company domiciled in California. Topics California Tech One man was sentenced and four people were charged in separate insurance fraud investigations by Washington Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidlers Criminal Investigations Unit. Paul Albarella, of Kennewick, pleaded guilty in Franklin County Superior Court to first-degree attempted theft. He will serve 20 days on a work crew and pay $500 in court fees. He was charged in November 2018. According to the investigation, Albarella bought a GEICO insurance policy for his 1996 Ford F-250 in April 2016. He filed a claim in May, stating the truck was damaged in a collision at a Pasco storage facility. GEICO valued the damage at $8,038. The company found documentation from the storage facility that the collision occurred the day before he bought the policy. GEICO denied the claim and referred the case to Kreidlers investigators. Nicholas Jones and Harjot Burns, both of Renton, were charged in King County Superior Court with one count each of filing a false insurance claim, a felony. According to the investigation, Jones bought Progressive auto insurance on Oct. 14, 2018, for his 2006 Chevy Impala. Later that day he filed a claim, stating the car was damaged when Burns, his roommate, was a victim of a hit-and-run collision while driving it. Progressive estimated the Impala a total loss with a value of $1,650. Progressive found Washington State Patrol records showing that Burns was the at-fault driver in a hit-and-run collision at the interchange of I-5 and I-405 in King County before Jones bought the policy. The hit-and-run victim took pictures of Burns driving the car and the cars license plate. Progressive denied the claim and referred the case to Kreidlers investigators. Jonark Cunanan and Janine Cunanan, both of Seattle, were charged in King County Superior Court with one count each of filing a false insurance claim, a felony. According to the investigation, Jonark Cunanan added his sister Janines 2012 Volkswagen Jetta to his Esurance auto policy on Jan. 26, 2018, listing her as the driver. Janine filed a claim for a collision she said happened on Feb. 11, and Esurance estimated the Jetta a total loss valued at $10,040. Bellevue Police records show Janine caused the collision on Jan. 10 when she rear-ended another vehicle. Esurance denied the claim and referred the case to Kreidlers investigators. Kreidlers CIU investigates insurance fraud and works with the Washington State Patrol and state and local prosecutors on criminal cases. Topics Auto Abuse Molestation Washington A new chapter in Brazils tax reform The Brazilian tax system is highly complex composed of several taxes and taxing entities (a federal government, 27 states and 5,000 plus municipalities) and imposes a high tax burden and excessive cost for taxpayers, which must comply with countless ancillary tax obligations. As mentioned in our previous article, a broad tax reform is necessary and claimed by the Brazilian society because the current system leads to uncertainty, risks and many conflicts. In this context, congressman Luiz Carlos Hauly drafted Proposal to Amend the Brazilian Federal Constitution 293/2004, which intends to: Substitute the federal excise tax (IPI), federal tax on financial transactions (IOF), federal social contributions on revenues (PIS and COFINS), federal contribution for funding basic education, federal contribution on fuels (CIDE-fuels), state VAT (ICMS), and municipal service tax (ISS) with one single federal VAT the goods and services tax ( Imposto Unico sobre Bens e Servicos ; IBS); ; IBS); Create a federal selective tax for goods whose consumption must be regulated by means of higher or lower taxation; Incorporate the social contribution on net profits (CSLL) into the corporate income tax (IRPJ); Transfer the state donation and inheritance tax (ITCMD) to the federal government; and Strengthen the automotive vehicles property tax (IPVA), which would be also levied on the property of vessels and airplanes. Such proposal was being broadly debated, but congressman Hauly was not re-elected in 2018. This has not prevented him from continuing to defend his project and assisting the Brazilian Congress in the discussions about the matter. In April 2019, congressman Baleia Rossi presented Proposal to Amend the Brazilian Federal Constitution 45/2019, which was more restricted and focused on taxes on consumption. Such proposal was drafted by Centro de Cidadania Fiscal (Fiscal Citizenship Centre CCiF), which is an independent institution established to think about improvements to the Brazilian tax system based on the principles of simplicity, neutrality, fairness and transparency. Congressman Rossis project intends to substitute the taxes IPI, PIS, COFINS, ICMS and ISS by the IBS. Under the model proposed, the IBS will be levied on (a) domestic transactions with goods, services, intangibles, assignment and licensing of rights, and lease of goods; and (b) imports of (tangible and intangible) goods, services, and rights. The IBS will be a non-cumulative tax, not levied on exports, and not subject to tax incentives that, directly or indirectly, reduce its tax burden. As the IBS substitutes federal, state and municipal taxes, it would be a national tax, governed by one single national law. If implemented, it will be collected and overseen by a tax agency composed of representatives of the federal, state and municipal governments, and its revenues will be shared between them. The sharing of tax revenues has always been and may continue to be a deal breaker in Brazilian tax reform. The IBS will be subject to a global tax rate (the same for every good and service), which is composed of the sum of the rates established by the federal, state and municipal governments. Therefore, the IBS rates will vary depending on the location where the transaction is carried out. On inter-state and inter-municipal transactions, the IBS will be calculated considering the rates established by the state and municipality of destination - an improvement in the tax system -, and such destination will be entitled to receive its share of the tax revenue. The project also intends to create a federal selective tax, which will be a one-time-charge sin tax, to discourage the consumption of certain goods and services. The proposal also establishes a 10-year transition period, under which the IBS will be gradually increased, and the taxes which will be substituted will be proportionally decreased, until their extinction. This means that the current and new taxes will coexist for ten years, which seems to be quite complicated for taxpayers. It is intended that the current level of tax burden be maintained, especially because the federal, state and municipal governments cannot afford to lose their revenues. The tax reform and the social security reform (also under discussion at the National Congress) are of the utmost importance for Brazils development. They are expected to increase productivity, GDP and the inflow of investments, and to improve the countrys business environment. This article was written by Ricardo Marletti Debatin da Silveira (rms@machadoassociados.com.br) and Gabriel Caldiron Rezende (gcr@machadoassociados.com.br) of Machado Associados. 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 May 28, 2019 (Investorideas.com Newswire) The terms and implications of the arrangement are reviewed in a Canaccord Genuity report. In a May 21 research note, Canaccord Genuity analyst Eric Zaunscherb reported that First Cobalt Corp. (FCC:TSX.V; FTSSF:OTCQX; FCC:ASX) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Glencore to process, at First Cobalt's refinery in Ontario, feedstock supplied by Glencore. "We see this MOU as a positive step for the company," Zaunscherb added. The refinery, the only permitted primary cobalt refinery in North America, is not currently operating, and First Cobalt has not made a final decision yet to restart it. However, Glencore, per the MOU, will consider making a loan to fund the capital requirements to recommission the refinery and enter into a tolling agreement with First Cobalt. The two companies will collaborate on the final flowsheet design, and the refinery could be back in operation in 1824 months. Glencore's contributed feedstock would generate about 2,0002,500 tons per annum of cobalt sulfate from the refinery. First Cobalt is working with the provincial government as well to possibly streamline and accelerate the permit amendment process. The energy firm views the refinery opportunity as a way to generate cash flow in the near term as it continues advancing its Iron Creek project in Idaho and its project in Cobalt, Ontario. Potential catalysts for First Cobalt are further clarity around derisking of the refinery and additional exploration results from Iron Creek. Canaccord Genuity has a Speculative Buy rating and a CA$0.70 per share price target on First Cobalt; the stock is currently trading at around CA$0.16 per share. Disclosure: 1) Doresa Banning compiled this article for Streetwise Reports LLC and provides services to Streetwise Reports as an independent contractor. She or members of her household own securities of the following companies mentioned in the article: None. 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The foregoing prohibition does not apply to articles that in substance only restate previously published company releases. Disclosures from Canaccord Genuity, First Cobalt, Flash Update, May 21, 2019 Analyst Certification: Each authoring analyst of Canaccord Genuity whose name appears on the front page of this research hereby certifies that (i) the recommendations and opinions expressed in this research accurately reflect the authoring analysts personal, independent and objective views about any and all of the designated investments or relevant issuers discussed herein that are within such authoring analyst's coverage universe and (ii) no part of the authoring analysts compensation was, is, or will be, directly or indirectly, related to the specific recommendations or views expressed by the authoring analyst in the research. Analysts employed outside the US are not registered as research analysts with FINRA. 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Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp As part of its flagship innovation conference in the U.S., held in Orlando this month, Siemens CEO Barbara Humpton reinforced the companys commitment to contributing to the U.S. economy and the creation of modern jobs as technology continues to shape the future in America, and globally. Siemens has done business in the United States for more than 160 years, and in just the past 15 years, the company has invested over $40 billion in the U.S. which serves as a major center for its manufacturing and workforce. Each year, Siemens exports more than $5 billion worth of products from its largest market around the world. Siemens has more than 36,000 suppliers in the U.S. approximately 20% of which are small and medium enterprises. Humpton explained how Siemens is expanding technology and supporting innovations by investing in the R&D sector. We are constantly in quest of connecting the physical and digital world, she said. Cities are finding that carbon emissions reduction is within reach. Siemens has more than 50,000 employees in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, and while they have announced layoffs over the past year or so, Humpton expects to see growth in their workforce given the uptake of their newest products and services, including the MindSphere IoT platform. Siemens recently broke ground on a major expansion of a key Siemens Healthineers manufacturing and R&D facility for laboratory diagnostics in Walpole, Massachusetts that will create up to 700 new high-tech jobs over the next 10 years, as one example. This $300 million investment further cements Siemens focus on its largest market, which Humpton is leading as one of the top CEOs in the country - and the world. The company says, Siemens Healthineers is uniquely positioned to solve healthcare providers' system-wide and departmental challenges throughout the patient care journey with its medical technology that offers solutions for disease prevention through diagnosis and treatment. You can learn more about Barbara Humpton and her vision for Siemens and the U.S. economy here. Bringing together many of the countrys foremost industry leaders, technologists, mayors, innovators, and even a stuntman-turned-CEO, Spotlight on Innovation is a real-world look at the technologies spanning topics like the gamification of manufacturing, cyber security, city infrastructure, AI and the digital twin that are helping businesses and cities around the world unlock their potential. Edited by Ken Briodagh US-Italian car maker Fiat Chrysler has made an all-share merger proposal to French rival Renault as part of a new wave of consolidation in the car industry. Together they would have a combined market capitalisation of more than 32bn and total global sales of 8.7 million vehicles. By comparison, the Volkswagen Group delivered 10.9 million vehicles in 2018. Including Nissan, which has an existing partnership with Renault, the alliance could become the worlds No 1 car maker with 13.8 million in annual sales. It would also maintain a foothold in China, where both Fiat Chrysler and Renault are marginal players. If it goes ahead, the 31bn-plus tie-up would alter the landscape for rivals including General Motors and Peugeot maker PSA, which recently held inconclusive talks with Fiat Chrysler, and could spur more deals. Renault said it was studying the proposal from Fiat Chrysler with interest, and considered it friendly. Shares in both companies jumped more than 10% as investors welcomed the prospect of an enlarged business aiming for 5bn in annual savings. A deal would be the fourth time in 20 years that the former Chrysler of Detroit would have transferred to new owners. In 1987, Chrysler, under Lee Iacocca, agreed to buy Renaults 46% stake in Jeep parent AMC, and later acquires all of AMC and begins expanding the Jeep brand. Over a decade later, German car maker Daimler and Chrysler announced a merger of equals, which soon becomes a Daimler takeover. The blockbuster deal soured quickly as the US car market slowed. In 2004, Sergio Marchionne took over as chief executive of Fiat. Daimler then agreed to sell 80% of Chrysler to Cerberus, the US vulture fund, but in 2009 Chrysler entered bankruptcy restructuring in the US, and Fiat took control of the company, which was renamed Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, or FCA. In 2015, the French state increased its Renault stake to 19.7%, in a deal designed to block efforts by Nissan to increase its influence over Renault. The deal was orchestrated by economy minister - and now French president - Emmanuel Macron. In September 2015, Mr Marchionne emailed General Motors asking to explore a combination of the two car makers and is rebuffed. Last year, Fiat Chrysler revealed Mr Marchionne died from complications in the wake of surgery. In January, Renault said Carlos Ghosn has resigned as chairman and CEO while he faces a financial misconduct probe. And in March, new Fiat boss Mike Manley said Fiat Chrysler is open to pursuing merger opportunities. Reuters Huawei founder Ren Zhengfei struck a defiant tone in the face of US sanctions that threaten his companys very survival. In an interview with Bloomberg Television, the billionaire founder of Chinas largest technology company, conceded that the Trump administration export curbs will cut into a two-year lead Huawei had painstakingly built over rivals like Ericsson and Nokia. But the company will either ramp up its own chip supply or find alternatives to keep its edge in smartphones and 5G. The US earlier this month blacklisted Huawei -- which it accuses of aiding Beijing in espionage -- and cut it off from the US software and components it needs to make its products. The ban hamstrings the worlds largest provider of networking gear and No 2 smartphone seller, just as it was preparing to vault to the forefront of global technology. Its rocking chipmakers from America to Europe as the global supply chain comes under threat. The ban could also disrupt the rollout of 5G wireless globally, undermining a standard thats touted as the foundation of everything from autonomous cars to robot surgery. Mr Ren maintained Huawei had the capability to devise its own solutions -- given time. The CEO, however, deflected questions about how quickly Huawei can ramp up internal replacement endeavours. Failure could dent the fast-growing consumer business and even kill emergent efforts such as cloud servers. That depends on how fast our repairmen are able to fix the plane, said Mr Ren. No matter what materials they use, be it metal, cloth or paper, the aim is to keep the plane in the sky. Mr Ren has gone from recluse to media maven in the span of months as he fights to save the $100bn (89bn) company he founded. The 74-year-old billionaire emerged from virtual seclusion after the arrest of eldest daughter and chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou as part of a broader probe of Huawei. As Mr Ren said in January, when the worlds biggest economies battle for dominion, nothing in their way will survive. Meng Wanzhou His company is a sesame seed between twin great powers, he said. This may bring one of Chinas national champions to its knees, said Chris Lane, an analyst at Sanford C Bernstein. If China shut down all the Apple plants, the US would get very upset. This is a similar kind of move. Mr Ren has had much to deal with of late. His company finds itself increasingly under fire, besieged by a US effort to get key allies to ban its equipment. Then came the blacklist. Huawei appears to have anticipated this possibility since at least the mid-2018. Huawei is said to have stockpiled enough chips and other vital components to keep its business running at least three months. We have made some really good chips, said Mr Ren, a legendary figure in his home country thanks to the way he built Huawei from scratch into a global powerhouse. Being able to grow in the toughest battle environment, that just reflects how great we are. President Trump said Huawei could become part of a US-Chinese trade deal, stirring speculation it was a bargaining chip in sensitive negotiations. But Mr Ren said he wasnt a politician. Its a big joke, he scoffed. How are we related to China-US trade? If President Trump calls, I will ignore him, then to whom can he negotiate with? If he calls me, I may not answer. But he doesnt have my number. In fact, Mr Ren pulled no punches in going after a man he labelled a great president just months prior. I see his tweets and think its laughable because theyre self-contradictory, he quipped. How did he become a master of the art of the deal? Beijing itself isnt without options. Some speculate China might retaliate against the ban of Huawei - which may widen to include some of its most promising artificial intelligence - by in turn barring Americas largest corporations from its own markets. Apple could relinquish nearly a third of its profit if China banned its products, Goldman Sachs analysts estimate. Mr Ren said he would object to any such move against his American rival. That will not happen, first of all. And second of all, if that happens, Ill be the first to protest, Mr Ren said in the interview. Apple is my teacher, its in the lead. As a student, why go against my teacher? Never. At the heart of President Trumps campaign is suspicion that Huawei aids Beijing in espionage while spearheading Chinas ambitions to become a technology superpower. Its been accused for years of stealing intellectual property in lawsuits filed by American companies from Cisco Systems and Motorola to T-Mobile US. Critics say such theft helped Huawei vault into the upper echelons of technology -- but Mr Ren laughed off that premise. I stole the American technologies from tomorrow. The US doesnt even have those technologies, he said. We are ahead of the US If we were behind, there would be no need for Trump to strenuously attack us. Bloomberg The European Commission is understood to be considering proposing a disciplinary procedure for Italy next week over its failure to rein in debt, which could pave the way for a 3.5bn penalty. The step could come as part of the EUs regular budget monitoring process, most likely on June 5, and would mark an escalation of Romes budget tussle with Brussels that roiled markets at the end of 2018. Italian bonds fell on the news, with the yield on benchmark 10-year notes climbing 12 basis points to 2.66%. The euro extended its decline to fall 0.1% to $1.1192. Italian deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini indicated that hell push back against EU demands when crafting his next budget. Mr Salvini has the upper hand in the populist coalition after his party enjoyed a resounding victory in Sundays European parliamentary elections. Im told a letter from the European Commission on the Italian economy is on its way, Mr Salvini said. I think Italians gave me and the government a mandate to completely, calmly, and constructively re-discuss the parameters that led to unprecedented job instability, unemployment, and anxiety. The Commissions recommendation would be only one step in a long, convoluted process, which requires EU governments to weigh in several times. EU finance ministers would have to sign off on a so-called excessive deficit procedure recommendation, at which point a non-interest bearing deposit of up to 0.2% of GDP around 3.5bn could be demanded. EU finance ministers would have to say whether they agree with the Commissions proposal probably at their next gathering in early July. If Italy doesnt comply with the deposit request, it would be a breach of EU law. I am waiting to read the letter from the EU, but the Commission should acknowledge that people voted for change and growth, Mr Salvini said. The final decision on further fines may not come for months, after Italy is given time to correct its finances. The EU has never yet fined a country over its budget. The step by Brussels comes only a few months after the Commission decided against launching an excessive deficit procedure against Italy after its government pledged to rein in some of its spending. Bloomberg Irish exploration company Clontarf Energy has said it remains "hopeful" it can reach agreement on a long-running dispute over lost acreage in Ghana. The company has been seeking land compensation in Ghana for more than a decade after a rival US/Nigerian company was wrongly awarded part of Clontarf's onshore Tano 2A block. While Clontarf - and sister company Petrel Resources - reached agreement, in 2014, with the Ghanaian National Petroleum Company it is still awaiting formal government approval. Grievances against government departments, local authorities, and health and social services dominate the thousands of complaints to the Ombudsman last year. The 2018 annual report for the Office shows that it handled more than 3,300 complaints about public bodies over the year up 11% on 2017. The highest number of complaints last year was about services provided by Government departments (1,065). Complaints about local authority services (879), and health and social care services (730) accounted for most of the remainder. The health and social care sector saw the largest rise, with 122 more complaints received in 2018 than in 2017. Of the 1,065 complaints received about government departments and offices, 700 of these were about the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection, 106 about the Revenue Commissioners, 93 about the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine, and 49 about the Department of Justice and Equality. A total of 879 complaints were received about local authorities. Some 129 of these were about Dublin City Council, 72 about Cork City Council, 59 about Cork County Council, 52 about Limerick City and County Council, and 42 about Galway City Council. There were 435 complaints to the councils concerned housing, 189 of which related to housing allocations and transfers and 71 complaints related to housing repairs. Of the 1,530 cases that were substantively examined by the Ombudsman, 26% were fully upheld, 3% were partially upheld, and 52% were not upheld. In 19% of cases, assistance was provided and the case was resolved without the need of a formal decision from the Ombudsman. A total of 152 complaints were received by the Office from people living in Direct Provision accommodation. Some 118 of these related to bodies providing direct provision services such as the accommodation centres, the Reception and Integration Agency, the Irish Refugee Protection Programme, and Emergency Reception and Orientation Centres. The other 34 complaints received were about the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection, the Health Sector and other bodies. In the report, Ombudsman Peter Tyndall expressed his concern over the length of time asylum seekers must wait in direct provision accommodation, which he said is unsuitable for long-term stay. Mr Tyndall also raised the matter of his 2017 investigation, which found that the Department of Justice had wrongly excluded some of the Magdalene laundry survivors from access to redress payments. To date, just 10 of the 97 women who applied to the scheme after it was widened as a result of the Ombudsmans intervention have received a redress payment. In April, the Department of Justice said it accepted that, on the balance of probabilities, 14 women with whom it was in dispute did work in the High Park Magdalene Laundry post-1980. The Irish Examiner reported in February that the women, who were in the An Grianan training centre post-1980 and worked in the attached High Park Magdalene laundry, had yet to receive an offer of redress despite being accepted to the widened scheme. Atlantic bluefin tuna may be targeted by a limited number of Irish recreational craft under a pilot scientific research programme run by several State agencies. Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) and the Marine Institute are seeking expressions of interest from up to 15 sea angling vessels, which would be authorised to catch, tag, and release tuna to collect data on the movements of the fish for the first time. Atlantic bluefin tuna is the largest tuna and takes in the Irish coastline on its migratory track between the Mediterranean and the central Atlantic. It can reach a weight of more than 600kg, grow to more than 3m long, and can live for more than 30 years. Under International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) rules, Ireland could not allow targeted angling of bluefin tuna for data collection. Last year, a European Commission audit had criticised the State for a complete lack of control over the illegal capture of bluefin tuna by sea anglers off the west coast. It cited IFI evidence that a targeted recreational fishery for bluefin tuna had developed along the west coast of Ireland, with numerous chartering companies advertising trips for tourists over the internet. The audit said there was evidence that some catch was being kept, landed and offered for sale in breach of regulations, given that Ireland had no quota. However, IFI says changes secured by Ireland from ICCAT will allow limited targeting of the species by recreational anglers, but for scientific purposes only. The new pilot programme is being developed in partnership with the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine and Department of Communications, Climate Action, and Environment. Minister for Marine Michael Creed said he warmly welcomed the new scheme. Applicants for the new data collection pilot programme will be assessed on the basis of previous experience in undertaking collaborative research and scientific work, and must have a minimum of five years experience of sea angling in Irish waters. Applicants must also have experience in targeting large pelagic fish, and be equipped for same, and be willing to operate under specific authorisation controls, IFI says. Authorisations will be valid from mid-August until mid-October of this year, IFI says, and strict fish safety and handling procedures will have to be followed at all times. fisheriesireland.ie/bluefin Ten minutes into the murder trial of Ian Bailey, a translator was sworn in. Judge Frederique Aline pointed out that this was necessary in order to translate for witnesses or the defendant. The man on trial is English and the vast majority of the witnesses Irish. They couldnt be expected to follow a murder trial in what, to them, is a foreign language. The translator is set for an easy week. Mr Bailey wont need the proceedings translated as he is not present. Neither are most of more than a dozen witnesses from the West Cork area, who received requests to attend. Usually in a murder trial the spirit of the victim hangs over proceedings. In this particular trial, most of those who could provide any first-hand knowledge to help the court are absent. The result is a murder trial that has little precedent. For that and other reasons, something of a surreal air permeates the courtroom in the Palais de Justice. The trial before a presiding judge and two magistrates got under way at 2.45pm local time. After a preamble laying out the basis for the trial, Judge Aline set out the factual case against Mr Bailey. The front two rows of the body of the courtroom were taken up with Sophie Toscan du Plantiers relatives and some friends who made up the Association for the Truth of the Murder of Sophie Tuscan du Plantier. These included Ms Toscan du Plantiers elderly parents George and Marguirette Bouniol and their grandson, Sophies son, Pierre-Louis. The trial is the culmination of a campaign by the family and friends to bring to justice the man they believe has a case to answer for her death. The bereaved family is represented by a team of lawyers at the trial who have the right to question witnesses and make submissions. Sophie Toscan du Plantiers son Pierre-Louis Baudey-Vignaud arrives with his lawyer Marie Dose at the courthouse in Paris. Picture: Alain Jocard/Getty Images The opening minutes of the judges address could not have been easy for the deceased womans loved ones. Details were outlined of the finding of her body near her holiday home in Toormore outside Schull, Co Cork. She was wearing light nightclothes, including a blue bathrobe, and walking boots but no socks. She had sustained some horrific head injuries. Blood was splattered near the body. There was a rock there also, which is believed to have been the weapon used to kill. Over the following 90 minutes, Judge Aline went through how Mr Bailey entered the frame of suspicion for the crime. He had scratches on his hands; he subsequently made a number of admissions; a bonfire was detected as having occurred near the home he shared with his partner Jules Thomas; a neighbour of Sophie said that Mr Bailey knew the deceased woman; Mr Bailey and Ms Thomas changed their original story about his alibi. All of these elements of the case have been considered a number of times by the DPP in this country, but, along with other strands, were deemed as insufficient on which to base a prosecution. The extent to which they will be tested in this trial remains to be seen. Another feature of the opening address by the presiding judge was that to a large extent it resembled the opening speech of a prosecution lawyer in a murder trial in this jurisdiction. The first witness gave evidence of Ms Toscan du Plantiers background, sketching out a brief narrative from cradle to grave. Michel La Rousse is a psychologist who interviewed a number of people about her life. He related that she had a happy childhood, which included an early trip to Dublin. She studied law but moved into working in various jobs in arts-related fields. She hated being bored and did all sorts of things to keep busy, said Mr La Rousse, adding she was an open person, perhaps naive. A son was born to her and her then-husband in 1981 but the marriage didnt last. Sophie Toscan du Plantier She met Daniel du Plantier and married him in 1990, but, the court was told, her new husband was focused on his career rather than his marriage. She began an affair with a painter, but that soured when she wanted to have a child with him but he wasnt interested. Around this time she discovered Ireland and then used to holiday there frequently. The public prosecutor asked the witness who was her lover in Ireland. She had no lover there, he replied. She asked people to go with her to Ireland. The detail of the evidence related would be highly unusual to anybody accustomed to Irish criminal trails. Bereaved relatives of homicide victims frequently criticise the system because their loved ones life is rarely referenced in a trial. The evidence about Ms Toscan du Plantiers private life is probably something relatives in Ireland would be uncomfortable having aired in an open court. Ian Bailey. Picture: Dan Linehan This is France though and sexual mores are different. Apart from that, one possible reason for the detail was to open up the deceased womans life in order to show there were no former or spurned lovers lurking in the background as possible suspects. The detail about Ms Toscan du Plantiers private life also brought home the reality that she is now dead for over 22 years. Rarely has a murder trial been conducted that long after a killing, unless some new, unearthed evidence came to light. Ms Toscan du Plantiers son, who has taken a lead role in the campaign to have this trial, was a teenager when he lost her. He is now in the foothills of middle age, still trying to get justice for his mother. The remainder of the trial this week will give an insight into the quality of justice that may be on offer. King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands has paid tribute to the late Adrienne Cullen (58), the Irish woman who died of cancer last New Years Eve as a result of medical negligence at a major Dutch university hospital. Speaking to Irish journalists in The Hague, the King who will be accompanied on his Irish visit next month by Queen Maxima spoke of Adriennes altruism and dignity in campaigning for transparency in the Dutch medical system. He had watched several television reports about what happened to Adrienne, he said, and he admired her courage for shining a light on issues in the Dutch health system. In doing so, she had championed greater openness. During their visit, the king and queen will meet President Michael D Higgins who has accepted a copy of Adriennes book Deny, Dismiss, Dehumanize: What Happened What I Went to Hospital about her shocking experiences in UMC Utrecht and other Dutch hospitals. King Willem-Alexander said he was aware that the book had been presented to President Higgins on behalf of Adrienne Cullens widower, the journalist, Peter Cluskey, who lives in the Netherlands. In protocol terms, it is highly unusual for visiting royals to make specific mention of any issue particularly a controversial one relating to the country they are visiting. In a letter to Mr Cluskey last month, Dutch Health Minister, Hugo de Jonge, described UMC Utrechts behaviour towards Ms Cullen in the most scathing terms. It had only been Adriennes perseverance, the Minister said, that made Utrecht Medical Centre aware of their callous attitude. In January, Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, expressed his condolences following Adriennes death, which he described as indescribably tragic. Mr Rutte said he could scarcely imagine what she had gone through in recent years. He added: I have great respect for Adriennes tireless efforts to achieve official acknowledgment for increased transparency in cases of medical error I can fully understand her desire to draw attention to this situation. Midlands, North-West: Mairead McGuinness elected on 1st count. Luke Ming Flanagan likely to be next past the post. South: Sean Kelly elected on 9th count. 13 counts completed and Mick Wallace and Billy Kelleher fight it out for second seat. Dublin: All four MEPs have been elected. South Region - 12th count Breaking: More results from the 13th count in #IrelandSouth no one elected so the votes of Dolores Cahill will now be distributed #iestaff pic.twitter.com/0kXYHM4KpZ Elaine Loughlin (@Elaine_Loughlin) May 28, 2019 Mick Wallace has continued to prove the most transfer-friendly of the candidates in Ireland South, writes Kevin O'Neill.. On the 12th count, he moved ahead of Fianna Fail's Billy Kelleher into second place having picked up 2,333 transfers from Diarmuid O'Flynn. After the first count, Mr Kelleher was more than 2,300 votes ahead of Mr Wallace but the Independents 4 Change candidate has closed the gap and now surpassed the Fianna Fail TD after the 12th count. Both candidates are still set to win seats in the constituency, though. The full results of count 12 in #IrelandSouth are as follows #iestaff pic.twitter.com/ewFUF5mFAd Elaine Loughlin (@Elaine_Loughlin) May 28, 2019 The real battle will be between Liadh Ni Riada, Grace O'Sullivan and Deirdre Clune for the fourth and fifth seats, with Ms Ni Riada currently leading the way. Transfers will play a huge role here, with Labour's Shiela Nunan and Fine Gael's Andrew Doyle potentially playing a crucial role when they are eliminated. Fianna Fail's Malcolm Byrne is also still in with a chance of securing a seat here, but party members have conceded that it is unlikely they will win two. On the 12th count, Independent Liam Minehan was eliminated and count staff will now redistribute his 12,770 votes. It is expected that counting will continue in the Ireland South constituency until after midnight. Dublin Region - Count complete Dublin's four new MEP seats have finally been decided, after three days of counting. Independents4Change candidate TD, Clare Daly, has won the third seat, with Fianna Fail's Barry Andrews securing the so-called "cold-storage" fourth seat, which can only be taken up once Brexit happens. Dalys final vote of 87,770 puts her in third and Andrews finishes fourth on 68,952 #iestaff #EE19 pic.twitter.com/ZPQgdyUdSD Juno McEnroe (@Junomaco) May 28, 2019 Ms Daly extended her lead over Barry Andrews after outgoing Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan's votes were redistributed. The count was dramatically suspended last night after legal teams for both candidates had raised concerns over whether Boylan's votes would be transferred. Midlands, North-West - 8th count Controversial presidential race runner-up Peter Casey is refusing to concede defeat here. The Independent is 11,000 votes behind fourth-placed Maria Walsh, of Fine Gael, with only four seats up for grabs. Luke 'Ming' Flanagan, who looks set to take the second seat, believes Mr Casey has no chance. He said: "I have opinions on lots of things in this world and fortunately now I don't have to have an opinion on that man because he is now irrelevant." Peter Casey had predicted the final seat in the Midlands North West MEP election will come down to a three-way battle between himself, Fine Gael's Maria Walsh and Sinn Fein's Matt Carthy, writes Fiachra O Cionnaith Speaking to the Irish Examiner this afternoon, Mr Casey said: "I am very much in the mix" and that he believes he is set to benefit from a vote surge due to transfers overcoming counts from Renua's Michael O Dowd, Independent Fidelma Healy Eames and Fianna Fail. File photo of Peter Casey. After eight counts in the sprawling 13 county constituency, just one candidate - sitting Fine Gael MEP Mairead McGuinness - has been elected, after cruising home on the first count with the highest first preference haul in the country with the gap between Casey and Walsh in the battle for the fourth seat standing at just under 12,00 votes. Overcrowding, black mould on walls and sewage backing up into appliances are just some of the issues facing people living on council estates. That's according to Community Action Network, who are backing an update report on conditions by the tenants of 20 estates across the country. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has strongly endorsed Business Minister Heather Humphrey's criticism of Maria Bailey over her 'swing-gate' personal injuries case. In the Dail, without naming her directly, Ms Humphreys strongly hit out at the country's compensation claim culture and spoke for the need for personal responsibility. Speaking in Brussels, Mr Varadkar said a lot of people in Ireland would strongly concur with what his Business Minister said. I heard what Minister Humphreys had to say today in the Dail and I think a lot of people would identify with that and agree with what she had to say. In relation to Ms Bailey, he said: Ill be meeting her before the end of the week and I would like to have that meeting and hear her story. I am not going to ask her questions through the media, Ill do that when I meet her during the week and that is the appropriate thing to do. Asked if Ms Bailey's action had embarrassed the party, he responded sharply: I think I have answered that question before. Maria Bailey He also said that while an early general election cannot be ruled out, he made it clear, he will not be the cause of a premature poll. It is a statement of fact that I cannot rule out the Dail being dissolved early because this is a minority Government. I can say my focus is absolutely on the job, keeping the economy strong, creating jobs, improving living standards. My focus now is on Brexit and on getting the budget through so nobody need plan for an early election, it won't one that is caused by me, he said. The meeting of EU leaders tonight is concerned with the election of new Presidents of the EU Commission and Council. Mr Varadkar re-stated his support for Manfred Weber to become Commission President, despite growing doubts over his candidacy. Reports had suggested that Ireland would now support Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier but the Taoiseach said his commitment to Mr Weber remains. That commitment stands, I had a very good meeting earlier on with the EPP party leaders and also met Manfred Weber. I am somebody who believes in a more democratic Europe and that means that the result of the European election should be reflected in who we elect or appoint as President of the European Commission, he said. And the EPP has won the most seats in the European Parliament elections and our candidate for that position is Manfred Weber, who again has been to Ireland many times and has been very supportive of Irish interests. He did qualify his response by saying: I am also realistic in the sense that I know that the EPP doesnt have enough seats on its own to form a majority, nor can a majority be formed without us. So what we will have to do is get together with the Social Democrats, and also talk to the Greens, the Conservatives and also the Liberals, and may need to bring one or two of them on board as well, and that is going to involve of course a compromise, being the largest group, the most important position, the President of the European Commission, I believe should come to our group and our candidate for that position is Manfred Weber. Mr Varadkar said the success of the Brexit party in the UK represents a fresh challenge for Ireland but said the MEP race in Northern Ireland was significant. They did, there is no question about the fact that the Brexit party did very well in the European elections in Britain, so did all of the remain parties if you add up their support. For 40 years there have been two Unionists and one nationalist, that is no longer the case. There is one unionist, one Alliance party MEP and one nationalist, so two of three of the MEPs elected in Northern Ireland supporting the European Union and supporting the backstop and I hope that hasnt been missed as a fact by the British Government and the wider British people, he said. Penalising Maria Bailey over the swing-gate scandal will be near impossible, despite widespread calls within Fine Gael for her to be sanctioned. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and party bosses were left blindsided by Ms Baileys car-crash appearance on Today With Sean ORourke on RTE Radio 1 yesterday morning, and were fuming at her disastrous performance, it has been confirmed. A major firestorm erupted in the wake of the interview, and Ms Bailey is now isolated, having gone on a solo run by giving the RTE interview and a sit-down interview to a Sunday newspaper, without consulting with her party. In the aftermath of the radio interview, there were calls within Cabinet and the wider Fine Gael party for Leo Varadkar to remove Ms Bailey as Chair of the Oireachtas Housing Committee, a move which would cost her about 10,000 a year. However, as ministers gathered for a Cabinet meeting, senior Government and Fine Gael figures were claiming to do so would require proof of misconduct, which is hard to establish. She has made an awful eejit of herself and caused real anger in the party, but as far as a sanction, what has she done wrong to merit one? Where is the misconduct? said one minister. A spokesman for Mr Varadkar told the Irish Examiner that he will await his private meeting with Ms Bailey before making any decision as to her fate. Simon Harris, the health minister, said Ms Bailey, his second cousin, could have withdrawn her injury claim before the elections. He said the RTE interview with the Dun Laoghaire TD was unfortunate and saw her blaming lots of other people. He also questioned why she had not spoken to Leo Varadkar in advance of going on the radio show. He added: I think it is appropriate that the Taoiseach will obviously meet with Deputy Bailey. I think that is regrettable that that didnt happen in advance of an interview. "I think it was important he was afforded that opportunity to have that meeting with Maria. When you withdraw a claim, perhaps that is an acknowledgement that perhaps that claim shouldnt have proceeded. "Yet the interview very much seemed to be in the space of blaming lots of people. Regina Doherty, the social protection minister, said it is a tremendous pity that Ms Bailey went on RTE and did herself a disservice. Charlie Flanagan, the justice minister, says he believes Ms Baileys interview was ill-judged in both tone and content. Mr Flanagan said Ms Baileys case seeking damages was an issue on the doorsteps in the run-up to the elections, adding I accept that the optics have not been good. - additional reporting by Elaine Loughlin and Juno McEnroe A pensioner who put a bomb on a bus bound for Dublin and made hoax bomb threats during Queen Elizabeths State visit to Ireland has lost an appeal against his conviction which focused on Irish language rights. Lawyers for Donal Billings (aged 67), whose trial at the non-jury Special Criminal Court was heard in both Irish and English, claimed their clients Irish language rights were destroyed during his trial. Billings, with an address at St Bridgets Court, Drumlish, County Longford, was found guilty of possessing an explosive substance at Longford railway station car park on May 16, 2011. He was found guilty of making false reports on May 16 and May 18, 2011, that bombs had been placed at Busaras and Sinn Fein's headquarters in Dublin and that two mortars were set for Dublin Castle. He was also found guilty of making a false report on May 20, 2011, that two bombs had been placed in the toilets at Cork Airport. Queen Elizabeth was visiting Ireland at the time. Sentencing him to eight-and-a-half years imprisonment, Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding, said Billings was "perfectly entitled to hold a low opinion" of Queen Elizabeth and her visit to Ireland but was "not entitled to express such an opinion by engaging in criminality". In a judgment made available in both Irish and English today, President of the Court of Appeal Mr Justice George Birmingham said the appeal was based on two issues, namely sufficiency of evidence and Irish language rights. He said the Court of Appeal had not been persuaded that the evidence against Billings was insufficient to ground a conviction on any count. Secondly, he said the court had not been persuaded that Mr Billings Irish language rights were disrespected to the extent that his conviction should be quashed. Counsel for Billings, Martin Giblin SC, had argued that his clients Irish language rights were decimated and destroyed during the trial process. Advancing his arguments in Irish, which were translated into English for the court, Mr Giblin said Billings wanted to be tried by three judges who had an ability in Irish as far back as 2011. He said the State, including the Special Criminal Court and the DPP, had a duty to show respect to the Constitution and to personal constitutional rights. He said constitutional rights couldnt be denied by questions of procedure. He said the defence applied for a transcript of proceedings that recorded everything that was said in both Irish and English during the trial. A transcript was provided in the English language only, even though it was within the States abilities to provide one in Irish also, counsel submitted. Mr Giblin further submitted that the Explosive Substances Act 1883, under which Mr Billings was convicted, had never been translated into Irish. Mr Justice Birmingham said the Explosives Substance Act was passed by the Westminster Parliament. The fact it had not been translated into Irish was not the result of inertia but a conscious decision had clearly been made not to translate pre-1922 statutes. He said Billings had no right to any transcript during the trial, be it in English or Irish or any other language. Ordinarily, no transcript is made available during the majority of trials conducted in Ireland. Exceptionally, he said, an overnight transcript is prepared during trials in the Central Criminal Court and the Special Criminal Court but there was no entitlement to be provided with such a transcript, it was made available to the parties as a concession. He said there was no evidence of any disadvantage having been experienced by Billings and the fact a transcript was made available in the English language only did not render his trial unfair or unsatisfactory. Mr Justice Birmingham said the arrangements put in place by the Special Criminal Court were reasonable in the circumstances. Everything that happened in English was translated into Irish and everything said in Irish was interpreted into English for everybodys benefit, with two court-appointed interpreters alternating at hourly intervals for that purpose. He said the DPP may carry out its functions in the official language of its own choice and was not compelled to adopt the preferred official language of the accused person. He said it was open to the DPP to run a prosecution in Irish if it wishes and perhaps there were cases where it may be appropriate to do so, for example in a Gaeltacht area. Mr Justice Birmingham, who sat with Ms Justice Marie Baker and Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, dismissed the appeal. Permanent remediation works on 22 schools will begin over the summer, with representatives from the schools affected asked to attend the Department of Education offices in Tullamore and Dublin next month for an information session on the planned remediation programme. Investigations into 17 other schools built by Western Building Systems will commence over the summer. Issues with school premises built by WBS came to light last year, with one school building, part of Ardgillan Community College in Balbriggan in Dublin, closed. Nineteen schools were able to open after external precautionary measures were put in place. Sophie Toscan du Plantier told a friend that a weird man in west Cork who had an interest in poetry wanted to meet her in the days before her death, the Ian Bailey murder trial heard today. The witness, Agnes Thomas, had been a friend of Ms du Plantiers and had visited the west Cork home near where the deceased womans body was found in December 1996. She told the court in Paris today that a week or ten days or so before Ms du Plantier was murdered shed told her, Ms Thomas, of a man who wanted to meet her. Ms Thomas said that she warned her friend about meeting somebody who sounded weird. She didnt really want to meet him and didnt know what to do, Ms Thomas told the court. She first related this conversation in 2015, some nineteen years after Ms du Plantiers murder. Ian Bailey is being tried in absentia (Niall Carson/PA) Under questioning, Ms Thomas said that she remembered the conversation in 2015 after seeing FILM footage about her friend in which poetry was mentioned. This reference was what prompted her memory of the conversation with Ms du Plantier in 1996. It was pointed out to her that when French magistrates began investigating the murder in 2008, she had not related anything about this conversation. The brain is a complex thing, Ms Thomas said. I lost my best friend, it was so shocking. Something blocked in me and it took years before it came back to me when I saw the footage that mentioned something about poetry. She also told the court that she had worked with the association set up to find out the truth about Ms du Plantiers death, because she was my friend. The trial in the Palais de Justice in Paris is taking place despite the absence of the defendant, Mr Bailey. All of the witnesses so far have been French, none of whom were in the area at the time of the murder. A number of witnesses living in west Cork have been listed for the trial but none so far have appeared. According to legal sources there is hope that at least one witness will travel today or tomorrow for the trial. Earlier yesterday the court heard from an elderly witness who said he was a friend of Daniel Toscan, Ms du Plantiers husband at the time of his death. Sophie Toscan du Plantiers son Pierre-Louis Baudey-Vignaud (Steve Parsons/PA) Jacob Gilbert gave evidence despite never having been interviewed by any magistrates or investigators about the case prior to his appearance today. He described the deceased woman as having no time for fame or the limelight. She was beautiful, reserved, he said. She needed calm because of the lifestyle of ToscanFrancois Mitterard knew him. He was high profile. She was kind and deep. She worked and wanted to do things. She didnt want to be only a wife. He told the court that her husband had been destroyed by her death and didnt emerge from his grief for a long time. When asked why her husband hadnt travelled to Ireland to co-operate with the initial garda investigation M Gilbert said the Mr Toscan didnt have the courage to it at a time of grief. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said he and his government must heed the "stinging criticisms" made by Commandant Barry about the state of the Defence Forces. Speaking in Brussels, he said such criticisms must be listened to but insisted action is being taken to address them. "I heard former Commandant Barry's interview this morning and it certainly was a stinging criticism and I think sometimes Government needs to listen to criticism and sometimes take it on board," he said. "First of all, we are investing in our defence forces. An extra 50m is going in this year and none of it is being handed back. It is going into new vessels, new aircraft, new equipment, better barracks and better pay and pension for our defence forces staff," he said. "We have an agreement with the public sector unions that applies to the Defence Forces as well and that provides full pay restoration for almost all staff by the end of next year and that is being implemented and also the public sector pay commission is looking at specifically at the specific issues related to Defence Force's allowances and conditions. He added: I know there is some suggestion that that report is being published today and that it is some sort of link to elections. That is totally not the case, the report hasn't been distributed among Cabinet members as yet and won't be discussed or agreed for another two weeks at this stage. Mr Varadkar said he also has full confidence in junior Defence Minister Paul Kehoe. "He is minister at the Cabinet table and has the same weight as any other minister at the Cabinet table. It may be the case that he doesn't have a vote but we haven't had votes at the Cabinet in two decades at this stages so that's neither here nor there." The Taoiseach said to set up a stand-alone Department of Defence, or stand-alone Cabinet-level Department of Defence would of course be abolishing or move on another department. "I've yet to hear a proposal from anyone whether they think that should be the Department of Children or Department of Rural Affairs or which one they think it should be," he said. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has swung into the Maria Bailey controversy by backing criticism of the TD by Business Minister Heather Humphreys about personal responsibility. Ms Humphreys launched a stinging attack on compensation culture and called for the need for people to have common sense and take responsibility for their own personal safety if they have an accident. Speaking in Brussels, Mr Varadkar said: I heard what Minister Humphreys had to say today in the Dail and I think a lot of people would identify with that and agree with what she had to say. On Ms Bailey, he said: Ill be meeting her before the end of the week and I would like to have that meeting and hear her story. I am not going to ask her questions through the media. Ill do that when I meet her during the week and that is the appropriate thing to do. That face-to-face meeting is expected to take place today amid fresh calls for her to be stripped of the chairmanship of the Oireachtas housing committee, which comes with a 10,000 stipend. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin joined the calls from within Fine Gael for her to be removed. He said: In terms of sanctions, parties dont own Dail committees and I have always had a reluctance about people dictating the course of committees, but there is a case, therefore, the Taoiseach should ask her, in the context of what has happened, to stand down from the chair. In Leaders Questions, opposition leaders raised compensation culture and the impact it is having on businesses. Social Democrats leader Catherine Murphy referred to the Bailey case directly. The Maria Bailey fiasco has once again put it back into the spotlight and Im sure its hugely embarrassing for yourself and your party colleagues theres a much bigger picture here at play that you have to deal with, she said. While Ms Humphreys did not refer to her party colleague by name, she said she knew how frustrating it is for business when fraudulent or exaggerated claims are made as many of them do feel they are being punished for this compensation culture and I have to say my view on this is very simple. People need to have some common sense and they need to be responsible for their own personal safety, she said. So if you trip or you fall you have to ask yourself why it happened and more often than not the answer is because of their own carelessness and we need to change this culture because there is a culture in this country that if you have an accident, its everyones fault except your own and that applies to the play yard as well. In the past, she said, if a child fell you were dusted down and sent back to school. However, now people look to see is there the opportunity here and I think thats a culture we have to change and we need people when they have an accident they have to look at their own responsibility for their own welfare. It has been confirmed Ms Bailey will not chair a session of the Oireachtas housing committee this morning. Deputy chair Pat Casey is to take over instead. Patrick Bergin is back in Cork with an almost- forgotten play he discovered by the brother of one of the 1916 leaders, writes Esther McCarthy. HIS performance in a show about a grizzly real-life murder sparked a love affair for Patrick Bergin with Macroom. Two years ago, he came to the West Cork town to play the notorious Dripsey poisoner Dr Philip Cross in Murder at Shandy Hall. It was such a memorable experience for the actor that when he came across a musical that had laid undiscovered for a century, he brought it back to the actors at the Lee Valley. Blarney Stone, a musical written by John McDonagh, brother of Easter Rising leader Thomas McDonagh, had its world premiere in the town and will now be staged at Cork Opera House. For Bergin, it represents a welcome opportunity to return to the county. He discovered McDonaghs work in a heritage centre in the Co Tipperary town of Cloughjordan, where he owns a castle. They were doing the hundredth anniversary of the uprising and they recreated Thomas McDonaghs living room. The family lived in Cloughjordan, he said. I got chatting with May Casey whos one of the people running the place. In the course of that conversation she said Thomas was well known for his poetry but not many people knew that John, his brother, also wrote poetry and plays. While I was reading one, she said he also wrote a musical. What was that about? She said: The Blarney Stone, in another drawer over there. And it was laying there in that drawer for nearly a hundred years. Did he have a sense that the discovery could lead to his next project? Well this has been par for the course of my life. I had just finished doing a musical with Briery Gap down in Macroom. So I went back and said: I think I found your next musical. He says hes having a whole lot of fun playing Patrick Joe McSweeney, a flamboyant millionaire returning to his hometown of Blarney with his family with his wife and daughter, keen on social climbing. Were very glamorous but the wife wants to get into high society. As we pass through London at the American Embassy she meets an English lord who has a bit of a speech impediment. She decides that she wants him to marry the daughter so she could bring him to Blarney, get him to propose to the daughter and everything will be happily ever after but of course all chaos reigns in Blarney! Patrick Bergin We have leprechauns and fairies and goddesses. Its a wonderful time. Weve brought it to a contemporary audience. It wasnt that dated, in fact the mythology is mythology because its been around forever and itll continue to be around forever. Just tapping into it is the key and in fact we re-emphasise one of the characters in there, goddess Cliodhna, who was the goddess of love. Its been a delight, he says, to return to the Co Cork town. Ive fallen in love with Macroom. No question, he says. Itll probably be even nicer when it is bypassed because it allows the town to grow again. The people down there are wonderful and unfortunately theyre having trouble with the Briary Gap, the original theatre, which had a little fire a couple of years back and they havent been able to generate whatever funds to redevelop. But it was a wonderful theatre and it would be an even greater asset to the town. Weve had a campaign on that. For a period in the 1990s, Bergin was one of Irelands best-known exports, chilling as an abusive husband obsessed with lining up canned goods opposite Julia Roberts in Sleeping With the Enemy. He starred opposite Harrison Ford in the hit thriller Patriot Games and played Robin Hood in director John Irvins carnation of the much-loved tale, with Uma Thurman his Maid Marian. To this day, he says, he is asked about Sleeping With the Enemy, and feels the story is more relevant than ever. Theres a lot more interest recently in it and people are asking me to do screenings and talks on it quite often now. It portrays a situation that is very familiar and all too familiar unfortunately. Im not sure if it was seen that way at that time, as it was more of a thriller rather than social realism. The actor, from the working class area of Drimnagh in Dublin, says now that he considers himself fortunate to have gotten some early breaks that have allowed him to have a busy working life (he has more than 100 screen credits). I was in London living in London and you know Johnny Murphy, who was Joey the Lips in The Commitments? He was a Drimnagh kid, lived next door to a friend of mine and one night he was playing in a pub theatre. Shane Connaughton, who was involved with the production of My Left Foot, came over. He was working at the National Film and Television School and he asked me if I was an actor. One of his students was doing a short film and he thought I was right for the lead. I met with the student. I did the film, one of the best things I ever did, a half hour comedy called No Mans Land. At the time Bergin, who started off his performing career busking across Europe, was performing gigs in Norway and because he had a standard Equity contract, had a card for the actors association. One day, his music agent suggested he present the card to an actors agent across the corridor. He took it and I havent stopped working since. Next week, hell start work on There Youll Find Me, a new drama shooting in the Co Louth town of Carlingford with US Shadowhunters star Katherine McNamara and Derry Girls Saoirse-Monica Jackson. Im playing a busker which is very relevant, as I started off busking. But Im playing a fiddle playing busker which is a bit of a challenge and I have to at least look like I can play the thing. Hes also been working on a few scripts of his own, and says hes eager to get some of his own stories out there. What does he like to do when hes not acting? He pauses. Ive always got something to do, and I paint, I write songs, I play songs, I hang out. I still have the castle in Cloughjordan and I dont spend enough time there. Ill hopefully spend more time there this summer. It needs a bit of love and tenderness. The Blarney Stone comes to Cork Opera House on Wednesday, May 29 Clare Smyth is one of the worlds leading chefs. The centerpiece of the menu at her two-Michelin-starred restaurant? A potato. Richard Vines peels away her backstory. The Charlotte spud is slow-cooked in a marinade of butter and seaweed, then allowed to marinate for another 24 hours before being topped with smoked trout and herring roe from Scotland and served with beurre blanc. It comes with miniature salt-and-vinegar crisps that cut through the richness of the butter and provide crunch for texture. This signature dish at Core by Clare Smyth in London is both a homage to her childhood in Northern Ireland and a bold statement of her desire to combine sophisticated cooking with a simplicity of style. Other chefs are taking notice. Clare does incredibly clever things with simple ingredients, says Brett Graham, who holds two Michelin stars at the nearby Ledbury, in Notting Hill. It takes a chef with real skill to turn something as simple as a potato into something absolutely delicious. Clare has been cooking at the top level for many years. It is great to see her taking centre stage with her own restaurant and getting the recognition she deserves. Indeed, she is gaining recognition. Amid multiple accolades, she won two Michelin stars straight out of last year, skipping the usual starter of one. She was named Worlds Best Female Chef by the Worlds 50 Best Restaurants. Smyth was raised on a farm on the north coast of Northern Ireland. Its a different world from the glamour of her restaurant, where the classic tasting menu costs 115 ($150) and the wine pairing another 105. I grew up eating potatoes every single day with every meal, being Irish, she says of her childhood in Bushmills, County Antrim. So later, when we were in kitchens making pomme puree or whatever, I would eat a single boiled potato with salt and pepper on it before every service. It was my head chef, Jonny (Bone) who said, Do you realise? Weve got to do a potato dish. So we started to develop it. Seaweed was also common in the kitchen of her childhood, and the family land near the water infused their produce with a taste of the ocean. We chose to use the herring and trout roes rather than caviar because, again, it is staying away from luxury ingredients. But they are delicious and they have a pop that really works for the texture of the potato. So it is kind of quite classic in a way, but its satisfying, homely. Its who I am. It is simple. Smyths has been an exceptional career. Shes worked under Alain Ducasse at the three-Michelin-star Louis XV in Monaco and was the guardian of Gordon Ramsays three stars for almost a decade, the first woman ever to hold three stars in the UK. She became Ramsays head chef in one of Londons toughest kitchens at the age of 28 and he named her chef-patron of Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in 2012. Speculation is rife throughout the industry that her third star is a matter of time, maybe even this year Clare is brilliant, says Sat Bains, who holds two Michelin stars at his eponymous restaurant in Nottingham. She is one of the best chefs in the world. It wont be long before shes back where she was at (Gordon Ramsay) Royal Hospital Road in terms of accolade becoming a world-class restaurant with three Michelin stars, without a doubt. Thats her default setting. (Bains has a much-admired potato dish on his own menu.) The refinement of her food is based on a few, simple British ingredients, with snacks such as jellied eel, toasted seaweed and malt vinegar; and a main of braised lamb with carrot and sheeps milk yogurt. Core scored a straight 10 out of 10 for her cooking in the Good Food Guide, becoming only the fifth London restaurant ever to do so. (The others were Chez Nico, La Tante Claire, Marco Pierre White and Restaurant Gordon Ramsay.) Smyth even catered the Royal Wedding between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle last year. Smyth is extremely discreet and wont be drawn on that at all. She wont even say what she cooked, beyond smiling at reports that posh hamburgers were served: Looking at what I cook, I dont think most people would think that I would be doing hamburgers. She certainly wasnt born to royalty. As a teenager, she worked part time in a local restaurant and discovered a love of food that led her to leave home at the age of 16 and travel to England to follow her passion. (She doesnt even mention that she has been photographed with Meghan Markle since the wedding.) I was very headstrong, naive probably as a kid: Just blinkers on, really wanted to be a chef, she says, dropping the occasional pronoun in her clipped tone. Had read lots and lots of books and had some friends that lived here so I came over on holiday and looked at some colleges and stuff whilst I was here and then got myself an apprenticeship, just started straight away. I couldnt wait. She got an apprenticeship, went to work in at Grayshott Hall in the Surrey countryside and by the age of 17 had moved to London to work under chef Simon Hopkinson at one of the citys leading restaurants, Bibendum. Ramsay reckoned she wouldnt be tough enough to last a week when she then joined Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in 2002. She worked her way up to senior sous chef before going overseas in 2005 to gain experience and to work with Ducasse. The truth is most people didnt last a week and particularly females, you know, and it was just the way it was, she says of Ramsay. It was tough. It was really, really tough. But thats what I wanted, she says. Everyone wanted to work there in those days. So you had to be good enough to be in that kitchen or you were gone. This May Be the Worlds Best Potato Farmers daughter Clare Smyth parlayed the humble spud into a signature dish that puts her among the worlds top chefs. A dish of 'Potato and Roe' sits on display at the Core by Clare Smyth restaurant in the Notting Hill district of London, U.K. Photographer: Miles Willis/Bloomberg Smyth returned to Ramsay in 2007 and he supported her when she left again in 2016 to open Core. Of all the awards she has received, the Worlds Best Female Chef was the most controversial. Many questioned whether there should be a separate category for women in cooking. Even Smyth herself, in a speech receiving the accolade, said a chefs job is gender-neutral. So why accept? It was a positive thing, she says. And I thought, Well, if I want to be a role model or if I can help inspire other people, then that is a great thing. In Britain, weve got a long way to go for sure. It is changing. About 10 years ago, I would have been the only woman in the kitchen at the top end. Now, we probably have a balance of about a third, so it is moving the right way. The interview over, she gets down to preparing her signature dish. It may be the most talked-about fine-dining potato dish after the late Joel Robuchons puree de pomme, or the perfect mashed potato. Smyth says she had not anticipated its success. I must hear it 20 times a service, she says. People can sometimes be scared of fine dining and it can be intimidating. But when you put a dish like that down, it fills people with confidence to enjoy and eat it. And what does her mentor Alain Ducasse think of Core? I went and I could see she was very well trained, he says, and laughs. Dublin-born composer and vocalist Jennifer Walshe, will launch her new album on Saturday at Horseshoe Harbour Bay on Sherkin Island as part of the electronic and experimental music festival, Open Ear. It will be the first time that Walshe will take part in this avant-garde festival, now in its fourth year. Living between London and Roscommon, Walshes work has been performed all over the world by groups such as Crash Ensemble and the Con Tempo Quartet. She admits her latest album, All the Many Peopls, is very strange. It uses a lot of material that she found on the internet. I started to write the piece at the beginning of this decade. Nevertheless, when I listen to it now, it still seems relevant to the times we live in, post Trump and Brexit. "Theres a lot of sound files taken from nooks and crannies of the web. I was looking at YouTube videos and cell phone videos that soldiers in Iraq had made, of them blowing things up. "Theres bursts of sound from space and really early trashy computer game sounds and me trying to use my voice in a flexible way. "Theres lots of different types of text and me trying to change my voice, singing and speaking in different accents and rhythms. Musician, Drew Daniel, from the duo, Matmos, has written the liner notes for the album. He says that its like looking at your entire browser history exploding on stage in front of your face. Walshe says that at one point on the album, she uses tin whistles and fiddles in the background. Its a whole big mix. When Ive performed it live, regardless of what background people are from, they find it compelling as a performance. "But it doesnt have a single, so it tends to draw a more experimental crowd. The launch on Sherkin Island is something that Walshe is excited about. There will be people there from the kind of open-minded community that will give things a chance. I think people can be really nervous about this kind of music or they havent heard it before. "But at the festival, people will be able to ask questions at the bar afterwards, like where are you coming from? "Thats really important and this sort of festival provides these opportunities. Walshes music has been described as radical. But she says she is just trying to make sounds that she thinks are interesting. Its to do with what I feel about being alive today. With this album, its about how our ideas about language and sound have been changed by the internet. "The way we make jokes and the way our references have shifted and the spin people put on memes is really interesting to me. We use new words and hash-tags and emojis. Irish people are fascinated with language. In a piece that Walshe wrote for the National Symphony Orchestra, performed at the National Concert Hall in February, she asked the percussionists to wrap objects in cardboard packaging from Amazon. She was drawing attention to globalisation and neo-liberalism. Just like the members of the orchestra, she says the workers at Amazon are blighted by insecurity. The orchestra did what I asked them to do with total devotion. I really struck a chord there. I didnt want to write a piece for them that didnt acknowledge the situation theyre in at the moment. Ever inventive, Walshe is responsible for a fictional avant-garde archive called Aisteach, comprising fake Irish artists such as the Guinness Dadaists and the Kilkenny Engagists. She calls it a big communal thought experiment to which musicians keep contributing. Irish people, particularly anyone who loves Flann OBrien, take to the archive very easily. The Open Ear Festival is on from Thursday May 30-Sunday June 2 on Sherkin Island. www.openear.ie Everyone wants to know at what stage of the All-Ireland series Joe Canning will make his return but has anyone stopped to consider the growing possibility that Galway might not see beyond Leinster, putting paid to any late-summer running of The Joe Show? The Tribesmen, by and large, were excused for their poor showing against Carlow a fortnight ago. Their rather tame effort was blithely disregarded as nothing more than a somewhat understrength side blowing off a few cobwebs after a month and a half of being idle. Not to fret Wexford coming west would surely see Galway crank up through the gears. But what the home side served up yesterday will have left management and supporters concerned, even if the former declared that they expect noted improvement over the coming fortnight and before Galway make for Nowlan Park on June 9. Backed by a strong wind in the opening half, the home side went back down the tunnel with a 0-10 to 0-4 interval lead. All told, it was a most deceptive advantage. Galway had clocked four wides inside the opening seven minutes, not to mind Conor Cooneys failure to punish a misplaced Mark Fanning restart with a green flag, and so while Micheal Donoghues charges should have hit far more than 10 points, Wexford had been even more wasteful, finishing the half with 10 wides. In terms of work-rate, meanwhile, the Model County were out in front. Into the second period and Galways energy levels quickly dropped into the red. There was no verve to Galways play, no vibrancy. They were remarkably heavy of foot for late May. This manifested itself in the hosts enduring a 17-minute barren spell, during which Wexford struck seven in a row to come from being 0-14 to 0-8 down to go 0-15 to 0-14 in front. More damning still was that the Tribesmen managed just one point from play between the start of the second period and the 67th minute. In total, theyd hit two second-half points from play, the second of which, supplied by Jason Flynn, appeared not to sail between the posts at all. For a side harbouring All-Ireland ambitions, Galway, at this moment in time, are a considerable distance off the pace. Cannings free-taking expertise was sorely missed as Flynn and Niall Burke struggled with the dead ball. Of their six starting forwards, Conor Whelan, who contributed three points, is the sole player who can be in any way satisfied with his showing. Such was their second-half decline, without even mentioning Cathal Dunbars failure to put away a gilt-edged injury-time goal chance, Micheal Donoghue didnt need to be told how fortunate his side were to have bagged a draw. Galway v Wexford Full-Time Highlights pic.twitter.com/OYexUyCaOP The GAA (@officialgaa) May 26, 2019 With 10 minutes to go, Id have taken a draw. It was looking like Wexford were going to push on, said the Galway boss. We probably had one or two chances towards the end where I thought we were harshly done by, for maybe one or two frees. With two home games starting off, youd put massive work into getting four points on the board. We could very easily have been walking out of here with two points [overall on the board] and making the task harder. "I have full faith and trust in these boys. We go away now and work hard for two weeks. Five points, youd think, will be sufficient to have Galway sitting in the top three at the end of the round-robin series, but should Nowlan Park prove a fruitless sojourn, they then face into a final-day showdown away to Dublin needing to win. The road ahead has started to take on a troublesome look. Wexford, despite a wides tally of 16 (seven of which Lee Chin was responsible for), despite failing to raise a flag of any description until the 23rd minute, despite just one first-half point from play, and despite twice falling seven behind in the second period, will come to see this as a point lost rather than one gained. What this second draw means is theyll have to take something from Kilkennys visit in mid-June to progress. Lee Chin (two frees), Rory OConnor (0-2), Dunbar, Conor McDonald, and Shaun Murphy were on the mark between the 52nd and 64th minute to edge the Model County in front for the first time. Two from the stick of Flynn shoved Galway back into the ascendency, but it was a short-lived lead as Liam Og McGovern tied proceedings, watched by a crowd of 12,624, two minutes from the end of regulation time. What played out during injury-time perfectly summed up the errant nature of this tie. Galway sub Davy Glennon bore down on goal but was hooked at the vital moment. Wexford keeper Mark Fanning gathered possession, but inexplicably sent the sliotar straight to Conor Cooney. He picked out Jason Flynn, who fumbled possession. Up the field swept Wexford, Jack OConnor producing a fine fetch before sending Dunbar into the clear. His goal shot, however, lacked the necessary power, enabling Colm Callanan to make the save. Maybe, in the end, neither of them deserved the win. Certainly, both have scope for marked improvement. Scorers for Galway: J Flynn (0-6, 0-3 frees, 0-1 65), N Burke (0-4, 0-3 frees, 0-1 65); C Whelan (0-3); C Cooney, C Mannion, David Burke (0-1 each). Scorers for Wexford: L Chin (0-7, 0-6 frees, 0-1 65); C Dunbar, R OConnor (0-2 each); S Murphy, D OKeeffe, A Nolan, C McDonald, L Og McGovern (0-1 each). GALWAY: C Callanan; P Mannion, D Burke, A Harte; S Loftus, G McInerney, J Cooney; J Coen, D Burke; J Flynn, N Burke, C Mannion; C Cooney, C Whelan, B Concannon. Subs: J Glynn for N Burke (41 mins); K Hussey for J Coen (57); J Hanbury for J Cooney (60); D Glennon for Concannon (66). WEXFORD: M Fanning; S Donohue, D Reck, L Ryan; S Murphy, M OHanlon, P Foley; A Nolan, D OKeeffe; R OConnor, L Chin, K Foley; C Dunbar, L Og McGovern, C McDonald. Subs: P Morris for Nolan, J OConnor for P Foley (both 49 mins). Referee: J Murphy (Limerick). Mike Quirke's Football Podcast: Do Mayo trust youth? More Conor Coxes. Two-tier effects. Cork's plan After a decade of austerity the volatility that has marked Irish politics since the economic crash shows no sign of abating. The local and European election results have confirmed that while Fianna Fail and Fine Gael remain resilient, barely half the electorate now see them as worthy of their vote. In that context there should theoretically be vast swathes of voters who are attracted to the politics of the left. And yet after Fridays votes the left remains as far away from power in Ireland as it ever has been. Sinn Fein, Labour, the Social Democrats, Solidarity/People Before Profit, the Greens, and even the newcomers Aontu all claim to be on the left in some shape or form. And there is a huge phalanx of independents who also claim the left-wing mantle. Chief among these are Clare Daly and Mick Wallace both of whom rather bizarrely see being in Brussels rather than Dublin as better serving their constituents. Irish politics has long been riven with contradictions when it comes to assessing the performance and prospects of the so-called left. Splits are commonplace as can be seen from the birth of both the Social Democrats and Aontu. The ambitions of those who classify themselves as left-wing ranges from the overthrow of capitalism to tempering the excesses of the right. Clare Daly canvassing before last week's European Elections For Sinn Fein, the national question has always come first while for the Greens it is the environment. For decades those on the hard left have been calling for ordinary working people to rise up and revolt against the establishment. The phrase ordinary working people was beloved of Joe Higgins who had a chequered electoral career, the highpoint of which was his election to the European parliament in 2009. Yet just two years earlier he had lost his seat in Dublin West at the 2007 general election when he was seen off by the first-time Fine Gael candidate Leo Varadkar and the soft left standard bearer, Labours Joan Burton. The radicals of the Solidarity/People Before Profit and various other offshoots over the years could never quite understand how the working classes continuously put their faith in and voted for Fianna Fail. When Bertie Ahern proclaimed in late 2004 that he was but one of three socialists in the Dail, he was widely derided and denounced by the purists on the left. Yet he led three governments who spent massive amounts of public money on a variety of infrastructural projects, ramped up social welfare payments to previously unseen levels, and oversaw large-scale public sector wage increases. These all sound like pretty left-wing ideals. The vast public spending engaged in by the Fianna Fail-Progressive Democrat coalition didnt suit the lefts view of how you pay for increased prosperity which is namely to tax the rich and large corporations. The end of the Ahern years that brought the country to the edge of the abyss and led to the State losing its economic sovereignty in late 2010 led to a Labour surge in early 2011 when the party gained its largest ever number of seats (37) and share of the vote (19.4%). Labours decision to then enter government in a coalition with Fine Gael was an entirely rational thing to do. It had been out of power since 1997. Its leading lights were not getting any younger and were likely to have only one last shot at power. Perhaps most importantly the country needed saving. That decision while in the national interest doomed the party to electoral irrelevancy for a generation. Unmercifully attacked on its left flank by the Socialist Party People Before Profit axis for implementing austerity, Labour was decimated in 2016 and Fridays elections shows the gargantuan nature of the task to return to electoral respectability. Gains in Cork City, Fingal, Louth, Waterford and Wicklow position the party to be in with a shout to regain seats at the next general election but there are no guarantees. The problem, however, remains the absolutely woeful first preference vote in the local elections of just 5.7% and the wipeout of all three of the partys candidates in the European elections. The party is all but irrelevant west of the Shannon and now faces a huge threat from the Green party, particularly in Dublin. The Social Democrats will be pleased with winning 2.3% of the first preference vote nationally and having 16 councillors elected. Gary Gannons excellent performance in the European election in Dublin where he received 5.6% of the vote and over 20,000 first preference is also heartening. Yet the sense remains that he is at loggerheads with the partys leadership. The partys long-term prospects remain relatively bleak. Beyond its dual leaders Catherine Murphy and Roisin Shortall, and perhaps Gannon in Dublin Central, it is doubtful if the party will win any more seats in the looming general election. Gary Gannon And it is very difficult to sustain a party with few TDs as Democratic Left found out in the 1990s. These elections have been sobering for the hard left of the Solidarity and People Before Profit. Their vote is down by more than 2% from the 2016 general election to less than 2%. Their problem remains that they are essentially protesters with little interest in power or getting their ideological purity soiled by going into government. Any voter, even those who might instinctively be left wing, with an interest in having an elected representative who might actually go into government and get something done will have to look elsewhere given that they refuse to engage in any compromise with the parties of capitalism. Perhaps they are right given the history of what happened to the Labour party but believing in the overthrowal of capitalism is a fools paradise. It is also instructive that ever since Sinn Fein made clear that it wanted to be in power its vote has stalled. The left is comfortable with the politics of protest. Labours travails in office, and that of the Greens before them, suggest that the left when in power will be punished by its electorate who by their very nature seem incapable of being satisfied. There is no evidence that any progressive alliance will be presented to the electorate before the next general election. The result is likely to be a continuation of the old maxim the left must wait. The question remains, until when? All the evidence suggests a very long wait indeed. Gary Murphy is Professor of Politics at Dublin City University More than 200m of the 400m people entitled to vote in last weeks European elections did so. This marks a substantial increase in turnout since 2014, up from 43% to 51%. The extent to which their views influence the makeup of the executive selected to lead the EU for the next five years remains to be seen. The term of European parliament president Antonio Tajani ends in July. Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker and ECB bank president Mario Draghi step aside in October while European Council president Donald Tusk will move on the following month. This all-male quartet runs the EU. Tajani, Juncker, and Tusk manage at least 43,000 employees. They set the legislative agenda that shapes, partially at least, the lives of 513m Europeans. They decide how the EU will use its seven-year 1tn budget. As well as trying to square the Brexit circle or is that the other way around? They mediate between EU institutions and 28 members. Draghi sets monetary policy for the 19 euro nations. These are powerful figures and they, or at least their offices, are likely to become more so. Despite that, none of these roles are chosen by EU citizens. MEPs are the only EU politicians endorsed through elections. The four top jobs are in the gift of their peers in a politicised and all-too-mysterious process. EU leaders met in Romania this month to set priorities, including leadership, until 20224. The Irish interest focuses on two individuals. Agriculture commissioner Phil Hogan who, it has been suggested, will be reappointed. Mairead McGuinness, re-elected on a first count vote of 134,630, is a strong contender to succeed Tajani even if on a shared basis. She has been first vice president since 2017 and a member since 2004 so her candidacy is valid. It will benefit from her firm, clear confrontation of the wildest extremes of Brexit. Though it was reported yesterday that Ireland is likely to back Michel Barnier to replace Juncker matters are far from clear. EU leaders met in Brussels yesterday to continue discussions on who should lead the EU but no decisions were anticipated. Irelands support moved to Barnier after German Manfred Webers bid wilted in the face of French opposition. The Government here was, officially at least, backing Weber to the hilt and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has repeatedly expressed his support. The picture is further complicated by growing opposition to the spitzenkandidat process whereby blocs nominate a candidate. Opponents say this process disadvantages candidates from smaller nations. The process is so remote, so clouded that it struggles to resonate in the everyday. There is one candidate however, who has shown an enthusiasm for challenging the great forces of our time multinationals determined to minimise tax bills. Margrethe Vestager from Denmark seems committed to the ideals most Europeans want to see made real. Her elevation might accelerate the renewal of the EU. If she is ignored it will raise questions around how those corporations she has challenged may have brought influence to bear. A suspicion, if it can be that, which seems another good reason to make this entire process far more transparent. Business Shan State Lawmakers to Discuss Draft Inle Lake Conservation Law Tomato farms on Inle Lake. / Zaw Zaw / The Irrawaddy YANGONThe Shan State Parliament will soon discuss a draft law that will allow the participation of local residents in the conservation of Inle Lake, one of the most prominent landmarks in Shan State. The draft law proposes the formation of a lake governing body that will include four representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs) and three local residents. Yawnghwe Township lawmaker U Khin Maung Win said it has been submitted to the state parliaments Bill Committee. We want the soonest [possible] enactment of this law. Only then will we be able to manage the lake properly, he told The Irrawaddy. We have sought input from the public, and will consult with the public in the first week of June. The draft Inle Lake Conservation Law appoints the Intha ethnic affairs minister as the chairman of the lake governing body, and the chairmen of the administrative bodies of the Pa-O and Danu self-administered zones as vice-chairmen. The law also appoints Yawnghwe Township lawmakers and departmental officials as members of the governing body. The state parliament said it would hold consultations with local people from June 5 to 7. It is important that locals and representatives of CSOs can participate in [the] decision-making process, and we need a law for [the] conservation of Inle Lake, local resident U Myat Min Soe said. The lake has been deteriorating due to various projects implemented there. The water level of the lake has fallen and the water quality has also suffered due to the irresponsible use of chemical fertilizers, the clearing of forests for hotel projects and the expansion of floating farms, plus silting, according to local CSOs. The Norwegian government and the UNDP have been giving assistance to the Myanmar government to restore the lake. Locals, CSOs and departmental officials held seven rounds of talks to draft the Inle Lake Conservation Law, said U Nay Myo, a member of the Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation Committee in the Lower House of the Union Parliament. The lake is likely to dry up soon if we dont control it with a law in time. It has silted up a lot now. Though businesspeople have taken advantage of Inle Lake, they have ignored the locals, said U Nay Myo. While private investors have acquired land for projects in the surrounding forested areas of Inle Lake, local smallholder farmers have had difficulties acquiring official land titlesthe government does not recognize the inherited customary ownership of landand limited access to agricultural loans. Over the past few years, locals have raised concerns over the negative impact of hotel projects on their lake. In September, the Presidents Office received a petition signed by more than 4,000 lakeside residents opposing plans by the Myanmar Naing Groupowned by U Tun Naing Shwe, the son of former military strongman U Than Shweto build a hotel on 90 acres of land by the lake in Mai Thaut Village, Yawnghwe Township. Those forested lands were permitted for development by the Forestry Ministry during military rule. The current government has conducted an investigation into the proposed project in response to complaints from locals, but has yet to announce its official decision The enactment of the Inle Lake Conservation Law will enable the new body governing the lake to coordinate with concerned ministries to establish community forests and support community-driven development in the area. Inle Lake, the home of migratory birds and other wildlife species, was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1985. In June 2013, the lake was designated as an ASEAN Heritage Park; two years later it was included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, becoming the first ever biosphere reserve in Myanmar. Inle Lake became the fifth Wetland of International Importance, as defined by the Ramsar Convention, in Myanmar in 2018. You May Also Like These Stories: A Quick Guide to Inle Lake and Nyaung Shwe Nyaung Shwes Relaxed Night life offers the Perfect Coda to a Day on the Lake Weaving a Little Lotus Magic at Inle Lake Residents, Some Lawmakers Oppose Hotel on Former Wildlife Area Near Inle Lake Arts New YHT Exhibition Celebrates Yangons Fading Moveable Heritage An exhibition-goer views artefacts from a demolished Chinatown shophouse at the opening of Found: Our Heritage, Our Future at the Yangon Heritage Trusts exhibition space on May 25, 2019. / Aung Kyaw Htet / The Irrawaddy YANGONA new permanent exhibition documenting moments of Yangons cultural heritage opened at the Yangon Heritage Trust (YHT) exhibition space in downtown Yangon on Saturday. The exhibition, Found: Our Heritage, Our Future, is a collaboration involving artwork by artist Htein Lin and a collection of artefacts by architect Aung Soe Myint. It encourages viewers not only to observe, but also to contribute through a social media campaign. With this exhibition, the YHT hopes to ignite an interest in discovering and telling stories that have meaning for the citys residents and their families, the exhibition catalogue says. At this moment in Yangons history, with rapid urbanization, globalization and huge economic and social changes taking place, it is vital that the memories that weave a patchwork of culture and meaning across Yangon and across generations, are retained and celebrated, it says. YHT wants to use the exhibition to highlight the pressing issue of the rate at which irreplaceable heritage buildings in Yangon are being demolished to make way for modern constructions. When renowned architect and collector Aung Soe Myint was invited to collaborate on the exhibition, he saw an opportunity to show the public part of a large collection of memorabilia he has been hoarding since his childhood. I love to collect, not only antiques, but all memorabilia. Since I was young I collected everythingeven buttons from an Australian phone or [the uniform of a] Japanese force soldier, said Aung Soe Myint. This exhibition recalls Yangons multicultural and vibrant social life during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Theres branded crockery, a Burmese-font Olympia typewriter, a transistor radio and a film camera among everyday objects from a bygone era. Black-and-white photographs show hand-painted shop signs overhanging a street of old-world cars in downtown Yangon. An A. Scott & Co Rangoon soda bottle is displayed in a recycled cabinet alongside an official plate from the Sunni Muslim Community Club, tiles from famous buildings that have been demolished. Also part of the show are two cinema seats which Aung Soe Myint saved from being discarded from the Myoma/Shwe Gon theater on Bogyoke Aung San Road, which was once part of Yangons famed Cinema Row and demolished in 2012. Large parts of the display units are made from parts of demolished buildings toodoor panels are now detached and have been reused as mounts for the photographs; a door frame has been reinvented as a lamppost supporting an antique gas street light. Many of the artefacts are over a century old. In a darkened room, Fallen Petals Rise Back to the Flower is a video installation in which Aung Soe Myint has reversed time-lapse photographs which captured the deconstruction of an important historic residential building that once stood on Pyay Road. He wants to highlight the continuing issue of heritage building demolition in the city. Id love to see demolished buildings back in Rangoon. As you know, Rangoon is a city with its own character, but buildings go missing day by day, said Aung Soe Myint. Artist Htein Lins Revival art installation is a sculpture made of parts of discarded buildings suspended above a mosaic-tile base using twisted construction steel. I made this piece to raise awareness that in Yangon, on a daily basis, beautiful and historic buildings are demolished to make way for cheap and ugly new buildings, the artwork information card reads. For the communitys involvement through a social media challenge, YHT is calling for local residents to delve into their own history and share stories about historic objects they might find at home. Participants can record a video or take a photograph and explain what the object is, where it was found and why its important to the household, and then upload it to Facebook or Instagram using #ourheritagefound #yht #yangon. The young people must know to distinguish between good and bad work. Here, some middle-aged people have [positions of] high authority without even having the ability to distinguish between good and bad work, said Aung Soe Myint. For some people viewing the exhibition, it may be a walk down memory lane tinged with nostalgia or loss. For younger viewers, it is an important history lesson. For everyone, the exhibits show the scale and speed of change Yangon has experienced in the last century and give a warning of what the city is at risk of losing in terms of its tangible heritage. Asia India Snubs Pakistan for Modi's Swearing-In Ceremony: Sources BJP President Amit Shah (second left) and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi react after the election results in New Delhi, India on May 23, 2019. / Reuters NEW DELHIIndia will not invite Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to Thursdays swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi, who starts his second term as Indias prime minister, two sources in the foreign ministry said, suggesting any early warming in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbors is unlikely. Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan have fought three wars since both won independence from Britain in 1947, and came close to a fourth in February after a suicide attack by a Pakistan-based militant group killed at least 40 Indian police in the contested Kashmir region. An Indian government statement on Monday said the leaders of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutanall members, with India, of the little-known Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)have been invited to Modis swearing-in. This is in line with Governments focus on its Neighborhood First policy, a government spokesman said. The leaders of Kyrgyzstan and Mauritius have also been invited, but two sources in Indians foreign ministry said Pakistan will not be on the list, without providing further information. For the swearing-in ceremony for Modis first term in 2014, all nations from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), that includes Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Maldives, were invited. In 2014 Pakistans then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attended the ceremony, to the anger of some of Modis Hindu-nationalist allies. Modi and Khan both claimed their air forces carried out air strikes in enemy territory in March, to the alarm of world powers. Modi, who was widely believed to have benefited politically from the stand-off, won a second term with an increased majority in a general election whose results were declared last week. Khan called Modi on Sunday to congratulate him on his win. Modi could still meet Khan at a Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan next month, that both leaders may attend. A spokesman for Pakistans embassy in New Delhi was not immediately available for comment. You may also like these stories: Indias Modi Stuns Opposition with Huge Election Win Indias Giant Election Gets Underway With Voting in First of 7 Phases Facebook, Twitter Sucked Into India-Pakistan Information War Asia Vietnam Swine Fever Cull Surges, 1.7 Million Pigs Dead Vietnam culled 500,000 pigs over the past two weeks to tackle an outbreak of African swine fever. / Reuters HANOIVietnam culled a further 500,000 pigs over the past two weeks to tackle an outbreak of African swine fever, taking the total killed so far to 1.7 million, or 5 percent of the countrys herd, the agriculture ministry said on Monday. Pork accounts for three-quarters of total meat consumption in Vietnam, a country of 95 million people where most of its 30 million farm-raised pigs are consumed domestically. The virus, first detected in the Southeast Asian country in February, has spread to 42 of the countrys 63 provinces, the agriculture ministrys Livestock Production Department said in a statement on its website. The African swine fever outbreak is the most dangerous and costly of its kind in the husbandry industry of Vietnam, agriculture minister Nguyen Xuan Cuong said in the statement. Though the virus first appeared nearly 100 years ago, there has been no vaccine and no medicine for treating the disease. China, the worlds largest pork producer, which has also been hit by the virus, said on Friday it will start work on clinical trials of a vaccine for African swine fever, which is fatal to animals but not harmful to humans. Cuong said it is difficult to contain the outbreak given that the virus remains dormant in the environment for a long time and can spread through complex and varied means. Earlier this month, Vietnam said it will mobilize its military and police forces to help combat the outbreak. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in March advised Vietnam to declare the swine fever outbreak as a national emergency. You may also like these stories: Let Hindus Build Their Temple at Razed Mosque Site, Some Indian Muslims Say Spreading the NooDi Love for Kaw Yay Noodles Hpakant Mines to Close for Monsoon Season Stay or Go? As Weather Gets Wilder, States Urged to Prepare for Displacement Burma Blacklisted Arms Expert Continues to Work for Myanmar Military A photograph of Lt-Gen Thein Htay taken during the Thein Sein administration. / The Irrawaddy YANGONA U.S.-blacklisted senior officer in the Myanmar military, accused of making arms deals with North Korea in defiance of UN resolutions, continues to work with the army as a weaponry advisor despite his official service years with the army having ended some years ago. Military spokesperson Brig-Gen Zaw Min Tun confirmed to the media on Monday that Lt-Gen Thein Htay is currently working for the military as an arms expert. He denied rumors of the Lieutenant Generals dismissal following claims that some weapons produced by the military had been smuggled form the army into other hands within the country. He is an expert, and their (experts) service years can be extended if the State still needs them, said the spokesperson. He added that the army has taken action against those connected with arms smuggling in the past, but refused to elaborate. Lt-Gen Thein Htay was blacklisted by the US Treasury Department in 2013 for his involvement in the illicit trade of North Korean arms to Myanmar. He was the head of Myanmars Directorate of Defense Industries at the time. Thein Htay has disregarded international requirements to stop purchasing military goods from North Korea, the revenues from which directly support North Koreas illicit activities, said Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence David S. Cohen. Trained as an engineer, the Lt-Gen served as border affairs minister during the previous Thein Sein administration. He took part in a secret visit paid by top Myanmar military officials to North Korea in late 2008. They visited military facilities and, according to the State Department, signed a memorandum of understanding with North Korea to provide assistance to Myanmar to build medium range, liquid-fueled ballistic missiles. Its unclear what kind of military hardware and know-how Myanmar has actually obtained from North Korea. The 2008 mission was led by then-junta No. 3, Shwe Mann, now the leader of a newly founded political party Union Betterment Party. On his most recent visit to the U.S. in February 2013, Myanmar had ended arms trading with North Korea. You may also like these stories: Military Seeks Second Defamation Suit Against Mandalay Monk Military to Investigate Deaths of 6 in Detention U.S. Military Retrieves Possible World War Two Remains From Myanmar UN Investigators Urge Nations to Snap Financial Ties with Myanmar Military Burma Military Commanders Reshuffled in Restive Rakhine Maj-Gen. Phone Myat (left) is seen in an India-Myanmar high-level military meeting in November 2018. / Eastern Command_AI / Twitter YANGONAmid fierce battling in northern Rakhine State, the Office of the Commander-in-Chief has replaced Chief of Western Command Major-General Soe Tint Naing with Major-General Phone Myat, of the Northwest Command, according to a military spokesperson. Brigadier General U Zaw Min Tun told reporters in Naypyidaw on Monday that the replacement was a necessity of military operations in Rakhine State, and just an exchange of the two chiefs of the Western and Northwestern commands. The appointment of Maj-Gen. Phone Myat, he added, was based on the experiences of where each had served in the past. The military had previously announced a four-month truce for five military commands across the country, excluding Rakhine, from January to April. When the truce expired in April, they extended it for another two months for all military operations outside of Rakhine. Arakan Army (AA) spokesperson U Khine Thukha said the recent military transfer is a gesture of continued armed violence in northern Rakhine, adding that the military has always transferred commanders in the past whenever there was a failure to show high operational performance. According to U Khine Thukha, outgoing Maj-Gen. Soe Tint Naing had been in Rakhine since late 2018, when Western Command Major-General Maung Maung Soe was dismissed by the commander-in-chiefs office for his role in clearance operations against the Rohingya in 2017. U Khine Thukha said the Myanmar military was totally sustained significant losses against AA forces in northern Rakhine and remote parts of neighboring Chin States Paletwa Township in May, although it had recently deployed newly-reinforced Light Infantry Divisions (LIDs) No. 11, 44 and 77 to Rakhine State. U Khine Thukha said he had heard that in February 2019, Maj-Gen. Phone Myat had successfully taken control of the headquarters of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Khaplang (NSCN-K), in the Naga Self-Administered Zone of Sagaing Region, without a single gunshot fired. It seems they [the Myanmar military] want to test him for the Rakhine command, U Khine Thukha said. Ethnic armed affairs analyst U Maung Maung Soe said the military has occasionally done such re-positioning of commanders before, and there remains too much uncertainty to conclude whether or not fighting will escalate on the ground, as the operation is directly handled by the Office of the Commander-in-Chief. According to the AA, the military has dispatched to northern Rakhine LIDs No. 77, 55, 44, 22 and 11, in addition to reinforcing some battalions under the control of LIDs No. 33, 66 and 99 there. These LIDs are jointly conducting the operations, with three regional commands in Rakhine. Each military division is comprised of 10 battalions. You may also like these stories: Civil Servant Investigated for Criticism of Govt Training Local tour guides want ministry to take action against foreign operators Vietnam Protests to China Over South China Sea Boat Sinking No New Quarrying Licenses to Be Issued in Mon State Forest Reserve Burma Mon Unity Party Calls for Probe of 1-Billion-Kyat Road Contract The Mon State Parliament in session on May 10 / Mon State Parliament / Facebook The founding members of the Mon Unity Party (MUP) have asked the Union and Mon State governments, as well as the state parliament, what action they plan to take in the case of a 1-billion-kyat road project that was offered without a tender process. They accused the states chief minister of abusing his power to offer the project to a favored company. In a statement issued yesterday the MUP, a new party comprising former members of existing parties, said the issue threatened to harm public confidence in the state government, and cautioned that the rule of law in the region was put at risk by the absence of checks and balances between the parliament and the state government, adding that the issue had resulted in an increase in clashes in the legislature. The MUP urged the Union government to investigate the road project to determine whether it was true that State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi had verbally instructed Chief Minister U Aye Zan to offer the contract directly to the company. If she did not, the party said, the Union government should take action against the chief minister. Nai Lyi Tama, a spokesperson for the MUP, told The Irrawaddy on Tuesday that more clashes would erupt inside the state parliament if the problem were not resolved. It is the duty of parliament and the government to explain to the people how they will handle this case. We want them to explain it to the people clearly, he said. The Union government also has a duty to solve the problem. If it does not, the people in Mon will lose trust in the government, he said. Many Mon people including politicians want to see the Union government, in particular the Presidents Office, investigate Chief Minister U Aye Zans unilateral decision to offer the project directly to the company instead of initiating a tender process. According to government procedure, the state is required to open up contracts worth 10 million kyats or more for bidding. While the process is supposed to be initiated by the president and the Union government, the final decision-making authority on awarding the contract lies with the state or regional government. According to U Aung Naing Oo, the state parliaments deputy speaker, resolving the problem was the duty of the Union and state governments, not the parliament. The Union government should find out who is right and wrong, then inform the people, Aung Naing Oo said. He said Chief Minister U Aye Zan did not provide satisfactory answers when asked about the road project in parliament. Therefore, he said, the Union government should investigate the chief minister. Aung Naing Oo said he and other lawmakers had already done their part, adding that he had quizzed the chief minister on the issue. If the Union government, especially the Presidents Office, does not investigate the case, the Mon people will have more cause to doubt the state government, he said. On May 3, during a debate in parliament, U Aye Zan said the budget for the project was not large enough to require bidding, and that he had received Daw Aung San Suu Kyis permission to move ahead. Aung Naing Oo said in parliament said that if the State Counselor had issued such an order, there would be a record of it. U Aye Zan replied that it had been a verbal order. The exchange prompted widespread criticism of the chief minister on Facebook. Critics called for the NLD government to investigate U Aye Zan and take appropriate action if evidence of illegal activity were found. You may also like these stories: Suspicions Raised in Mon State Development Contract Mon State Chief Minister Tells Locals to Eat Less to Lower Food Prices Kachin Govt Set to Reject Mongolian Mining Proposal News Military Corruption is Being Handled Internally: Military Spokesperson Brig-Gen Zaw Min Tun (far right) at a military press conference on the situation in Rakhine State and the peace process, in Naypyitaw on January 18, 2019. / Htet Naing Zaw / The Irrawaddy YANGON Myanmars military said it has taken action against corrupt military officials through its own internal mechanisms, fending off complaints about their immunity to prosecution from the governments anti-graft body. Information on the cases which have been dealt with, however, has not been disclosed. We, the military, dont neglect corruption cases and we take action against the [perpetrators], Brig-Gen Zaw Min Tun told reporters during a press conference in Naypyitaw on Monday after being asked how the military handles cases of bribery within the institution. He said cases against generals and other high-ranking officials are among the corruption prosecutions it has carried out. But we dont release information about those prosecutions. And dont ask me [about that]. I wont answer. The fact is that we have taken action. To combat deep-rooted corruption inside the country, the first Anti-Corruption Commission was formed in 2014 under the countrys Anti-Corruption Law. However, the commission failed to make significant ground to stem the tide of corruption. The incumbent National League for Democracy (NLD) government revamped the Anti-Corruption Commission in November 2017. Since then, it has stepped up its efforts, amending the Anti-Corruption Law to expand its authority and undertaking more investigations at higher levels than the previous commission. The commission has been able to catch some big fish over the last year-and-a-half, prosecuting high-ranking officials who occupy senior positions such as chief minister, regional attorney general, deputy district judge and regional law officer. Yet, when it comes to the military, corruption remains powerless despite the Anti-Corruption Law stating that anyone found guilty of corruption is subject to punishment. Anti-graft czar U Aung Kyi said in late 2018 that corruption cases related to the military are beyond the mandate of the commission because the Constitution grants the military the right to tackle corruption internally. He was referring to Article 293 (b) of the Constitution, which refers to the formation of a court-martial, and Article 319, under which the court-martial shall be constituted in accordance with the Constitution and the other laws, and shall adjudicate Defense Services personnel. According to the commission, it transferred eight complaints to the ministry of defense during 2018, but whether action has been taken on those cases or not remains unknown. When contacted by The Irrawaddy on Tuesday, a member of the commission refused to comment on the cases related to the military and their follow-up actions, citing the sensitivity of cases in connection with the military. In a very rare incident reported by The Irrawaddy in May 2018, two high-ranking military officers were transferred to the militarys auxiliary force for taking bribes from owners of jade mines operating without licenses in Kachin States Hpakant Township after a local lawmaker complained to the ministry of resources and environmental conservation. The two officers, Maj-Gen Nyi Nyi Swe, head of the Southwestern Command and former head of the Northern Command; and Brig-Gen Maung Maung Zan, commander of Division 101, based in Hpakant, were investigated for taking bribes and suspended. Despite the Anti-Corruption Commission not [being allowed to] handle these cases, our punishments are harsher than the commissions. We do not just give warnings or dismissals, Brig-Gen Zaw Min Tun said. He said that the military is investigating and taking action on complaints of corruption received by the commander-in-chief, state and regional military bases, Parliament, the Presidents Office and those transferred from the Anti-Corruption Commission. Daw Moe Moe Tun, leading member of MATA (Myanmar Alliance for Transparency and Accountability), said transparency is the most important thing in tackling corruption and in gaining public confidence. It is not enough saying that they took action. If they really did, they need to announce publicly when and how they took action [on the corruption complaints]. The public will only have trust in that case, she said. Indeed, everyone should be under the same law, she said. You may also like these stories: Police Station Head Accused of Taking Bribe in Underage Rape Case One Shot Dead in Drugs Raid in Yangons Mingalardon Township Civilianizing This Militarized Nation Could Take Another Three Decades Huawei Mobile Users Ponder Switching Brand After Google News News Nationalists Behind Forced Ramadan Prayer Site Closures in Hiding One of the temporary Muslim worship sites in Yangons South Dagon Township that was forced to close by the group of nationalists on May 15, 2019. / Htet Hkaung Lin / The Irrawaddy NAYPYITAWTwo nationalists who led the forced shutdown of three temporary places of worship set up for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan in South Dagon Township have escaped to the protection of an armed group that have signed a peace agreement with the government, according to deputy police chief Police Maj-Gen Myo Swe Win of the Myanmar Police Force. On May 15, U Michael Kyaw Myint and U Thiha Myo Naing led around 200 nationalists who forced three temporary worship sites to close in South Dagon Township, despite the fact that the Yangon regional government had given Muslim community leaders permission to use those buildings during Ramadan. Michael Kyaw Myint was previously in charge of the business affairs of an armed organization that has signed a ceasefire agreement. We found out that both them are taking shelter with that organization. So we are taking action in coordination with the concerned bodies, said Police Maj-Gen Myo Swe Win at a press conference in Naypyitaw on Monday. A South Dagon Township administrator filed a complaint against the two under Section 505 (b) of the Penal Code with the township court on May 16, and the arrest warrant was issued for the pair on the same day. They were already on the run, said the deputy police chief. The police were able to trace [them] based on the number plate of [Michael Kyaw Myints] car which was spotted going through a toll gate on the Old Yangon-Mandalay Highway on the evening of May 17. The police found the car inside the compound of a pagoda in Mandalay Region two days later, but the two were not there. We only found a woman who is a relative of [Michael Kyaw Myint]. We later concluded that the two stopped in Bago and took a passenger bus [from there], said the deputy police chief. The Irrawaddy tried to call U Michael Kyaw Myint but his phone has been powered off. It is important that the two are held accountable. This will act as a deterrent to future incidents, said South Dagon Township Lawmaker U Thein Naing in the Yangon regional parliament. On the evening of May 15, at their request, the township administrator allowed around 50 people, led by five Buddhist monks and U Michael Kyaw Myint, to see the houses being used for prayer sites in South Dagon. At around 11 p.m., a 200-strong crowd gathered in front of the township administrators office, and demanded the closure of those sites, saying that they are being used as mosques. You may also like these stories: Spurned by the West, Embraced by Myanmar Boat Crash Kills Five in Sagaing President Warns Officials that Reforms Require a Change of Mindset Lawyers Group Slams Light Sentence for Ex-Officer Who Aided U Ko Ni Killers Tuesday, May 28th, 2019 (10:38 am) - Score 1,153 The London Grid for Learning (LGfL), which alongside Virgin Media Business helps to supply broadband connectivity to around 3,000 schools (over 1.2 million children) in the UKs capital, has signed an expanded deal with the cable operator that will deliver connection speeds of up to 1000Mbps and often at no additional cost. Schools on LGfLs Ignite Network will be the first to see Ultrafast speeds of up to 1Gbps at no additional cost, which should help to support their future use of augmented and virtual reality, live-streaming and 1:1 student/device ratios in the classroom. The schools also get access to public sector networks Govroam and Eduroam for remote working. Under the refreshed plans, all schools will be offered free upgrades to a minimum connection of 100Mbps (for both upload and download) with LGfL schools, on average, receiving a 200% plus boost in their bandwidth (i.e. enabling hundreds of schools to increase their connection speed to 1,000Mbps). Future upgrades will also be made easier by enabling greater remote control of the connection (sounds like Software Defined Networking). In addition to increased speeds, schools will also benefit from improved firewalls (protection against hackers and other online threats), which complements LGfLs existing range of security software including Malwarebytes, Sophos Intercept X, advanced email filtering and Meraki device management. Assistance and training is available to schools using these services. John Jackson, CEO of LGfL, said: LGfL is determined to place UK education at the heart of digital innovation worldwide. Our strategic partnership with VMB in our Ignite Network will massively boost bandwidth for our core network along with connectivity for schools, enabling pupils and teachers to take advantage of the latest cutting-edge technology such as AR, VR and live-streaming to improve outcomes in the classroom. Our plans to boost bandwidth will be complemented by investments in cybersecurity, reflecting our priority to not only provide one of the fastest networks for schools but one of the safest. By providing this huge boost to UK Education at no extra cost LGfL is achieving its mission to save schools money whilst ensuring they are fully equipped for the future. Peter Kelly, MD of VMB, said: By providing thousands of schools with an ultrafast, safe and secure digital platform, were revolutionising the classroom and giving children the tools and skills they need to thrive in the digital age. Were delighted to build on our long-standing partnership with LGfL and use the power of technology to help more than one million school children excel everyday. End. Accounting software provider Reckon has released a free single touch payroll mobile app before new regulations from the Australian Taxation Office take effect on 1 July. At the moment, STP rules require employers with 20 or more workers to send superannuation and income tax directly to the ATO each time payments are made. From 1 July, that will extend to companies which have 19 employees or less as well and to submit STP reports directly, employers would need access to the payroll component of the accounting software they use. In a statement, Reckon said it had created the app along with user-interface, design and development company Thinkmill, and it was aimed primarily at the 450,000 micro-businesses which have between one and four employees. Versions for iOS and Android are available on the respective app stores. More than 5000 people had pre-registered for the app, Reckon said. The company said it had also built a new front-end platform that would support mobile-first accounting solutions which were to launch soon. "Reckon single touch payroll app users can easily integrate their data into Reckons wider accounting software functions, such as invoicing and point of sale, if they choose to subscribe to those services," it added. Reckon chief executive Sam Allert said: "Single touch payroll is widely considered as the biggest change for employers since the introduction of GST almost 20 years ago. Many micro-businesses are still doing shoebox accounting, while overlooking payroll software that can save time and money. This might be because theyre reluctant to digitise their operations due to limited capabilities, Internet access, or cost. "Small business owners have enough to worry about without the distraction of admin and red tape, so we designed a simple, free and STP-compliant app that can run on the devices that most people have in their pockets." Microsoft will start the process of skipping the problem-plagued fall 2018 feature upgrade late next month when it begins pushing Windows 10 May 2019 Update to PCs running version 1803. The Redmond, Wash. developer has never jumped past one of its Window 10 feature upgrades. "The Windows 10 April 2018 Update will reach end of service on November 12, 2019, for Home and Pro editions," Microsoft said in support document last week. "We will begin updating devices running the April 2018 Update and earlier versions of Windows 10 in late June 2019 to help ensure that we keep these devices in a serviced, secure state (emphasis added)." 1809's disaster led to upgrade regime change Microsoft's announcement that it would soon upgrade Windows 10 PCs to the latest version would not have been out of the ordinary prior to last week. Twice a year since 2017, the company has refreshed the OS with new code that added features and improved and enhanced existing ones. Then came Windows 10 October 2018 Update, aka 1809, the latter the numeric label in Microsoft's yymm format. That upgrade, which first appeared Oct. 1, 2018, harbored a known-yet-overlooked bug that destroyed user data. Within days, Microsoft pulled 1809 for retesting. It wasn't until mid-January - three months later - that Microsoft again began to distribute the upgrade, albeit so cautiously that within weeks the company gave up on getting the new version to users because the next in line, version 1903, fast approached. Near the end of April, analytics vendor AdDuplex reported, Windows 10 1809 had been installed on fewer than 30% of unmanaged Windows 10 PCs. Earlier that month, Microsoft had announced it would upend its Windows 10 update regime for Windows 10 Home (and portions of Windows 10 Pro). Rather than force consumers to accept each feature upgrade on the company's terms - Microsoft decided when each device was told to download and install a refresh - engineers would add "Download and install now" to this spring's 1903, as well as refit 1803 and 1809 with the option. With "Download and install now," users can choose when to migrate from one version of Windows 10 Home to another. It also lets users decide whether to install a specific feature upgrade. If one does not apply the option by clicking on it in the Windows Update settings pane, the current feature upgrade is not to be automatically downloaded and installed on the PC. The gist of "Download and install now" was that Windows 10 Home users could, for the first time, skip a feature upgrade by simply doing nothing. For example, with "Download and install now," those running 1803 - the April 2018 Update that began rollout on April 30, 2018 - would be able to bypass the troubled 1809 by not choosing the option. (Under the previous rules, Windows 10 Home users would have been forced to upgrade to 1809 before later moving to 1903.) Microsoft wouldn't let people run a Windows 10 version indefinitely - that would have been a bridge much too far - but only when the current feature upgrade neared end of support date would Microsoft intervene, the company said in April. What wasn't clear was when that trigger point would come. Now users know. When Microsoft regains control "For Windows 10 devices that are at, or within several months of reaching, end of service, Windows Update will automatically initiate a feature update," explained John Cable, director of program management, in a post to a company blog. "Starting this June, we will begin updating devices running the April 2018 Update, and earlier versions of Windows 10. We are starting this ... rollout process several months in advance of the end of service date to provide adequate time for a smooth update process." IDG/Gregg Keizer Microsoft will use its end-of-support exemption to "Download and install now" to upgrade PCs running last year's 1803 to this year's 1903, skipping the problematic 1809. Windows 10 1803 is slated to exit support Nov. 12; a late-June beginning to the Microsoft-controlled migration to 1903 means that the company will have just under five months to shift the approximately 63% of Windows 10 Home users on 1803 (according to AdDuplex). Whether by plan or through 1809's misfortune, Microsoft has navigated through its perpetually mutating upgrade policies to arrive at a result many experts have long urged the company to seek: Annual Windows 10 feature upgrades. If "Download and install now" works as Microsoft has implied, users of unmanaged PCs - those running Windows 10 Home as well as Windows 10 Pro not monitored by an organization's IT or set by its user to defer updates - will upgrade once a year under Microsoft's direction, as Figure 2 illustrates. IDG/Gregg Keizer If Windows 10 Home users now running 1803 do nothing, Microsoft should upgrade their PCs to 1903 this summer and fall, then follow with an upgrade from 1903 to 2003 (the feature update, not the year) starting in mid-2020. Assuming AdDuplex's numbers are accurate, even in the most general terms, a broad majority of Windows 10 Home PCs - and an unknown portion of Windows 10 Pro systems - will be on an annual upgrade tempo. In that, they'll join enterprises, who since September have been able to easily slow to an annual pace thanks to longer support lifecycles for xx09 feature upgrades. But what of those running 1809 on Windows 10 Home and Pro? What happens to them? Computerworld doesn't know. Microsoft won't be immediately upgrading them without user approval, a fact implied in its statement that it would do so for the April 2018 and earlier refreshes. Users can, of course, click on the "Download and install now" option when it shows up in Windows Update to board the annual-upgrade train. (Although Microsoft issued cumulative updates for Windows 10 1803 and 1809 that included the option, those updates were only available to users who actively sought them; Microsoft will automatically shove those updates to all users on June 11.) That presumes they hear about the option, then find the option, unlikely in many cases since people have been trained, more or less, to wait for updates and upgrades to arrive, not go looking for them. Microsoft may not mind. If a third of the unmanaged-PC base isn't on the every-spring upgrade track, so much the better to balance the load by keeping that group on the every-fall cadence. 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 Jet and Ali Tilas new book is designed to teach home cooks how to improve their cooking skills. Tila is a former Food Network star who visited Forsyth Country Day School in Winston-Salem in 2017 in connection with FLIK Independent School Dining, which provides food service to the school. Tila grew up in a Thai family of restaurateurs in Los Angeles and has appeared on Iron Chef America, Cutthroat Kitchen and Chopped. Ali Tila, his wife and business partner, is a pastry chef who works at Red Bird restaurant in Los Angeles and has appeared on such shows as Cutthroat Kitchen and Guys Grocery Games. Jet Tilas first book was 101 Asian Dishes. The couples new book, 101 Epic Dishes ($21.99, Page Street Publishing), aims to make readers better cooks. Our goal for this book is to take you deeper into the why of cooking, they wrote in the introduction. Every one of the recipes was chosen to teach a technique similar to something taught in culinary school, the Tilas say. That means you will have learned 101 new techniques by the time you cook through this book. A self-inflicted gunshot could have killed a 20-year-old man who died on Memorial Day, Winston-Salem police said in a news release Tuesday. Winston-Salem police said evidence gathered and a witness statement indicate that the man shot himself at Old Town Park, but investigators are still trying to figure out whether the shooting was intentional or accidental, the news release said. Police have not released the man's name. Winston-Salem police received a call about the shooting at the park about 6 p.m. on Memorial Day. The man was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Several hundred people were at the park at 4550 Shattalon Drive for the holiday, which police said is not unusual. Winston-Salem police said no further determination will be made about the man's death until the N.C. Medical Examiner's Office completes an autopsy. Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to contact the Winston-Salem Police Department at 336-773-7700 or Crime Stoppers at 336-727-2800. For Spanish speakers, the Crime Stoppers number is 336-728-3904. Crime Stoppers also has a Facebook page called "Crime Stoppers of Winston-Salem." 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. When asked at Tuesdays news conference whether Medicaid expansion was in the Senate budget proposal, Bergers response was an emphatic no. A statement from Bergers office said that while Democrats have focused their efforts on expanding socialized medicine via Obamacare Medicaid expansion, Republicans believe that care for people with severe disabilities should be prioritized over taxpayer funding for able-bodied adults. State Sen. Joyce Krawiec, R-Forsyth, said that the backlog of people with disabilities who cannot care for themselves is a serious issue, and funding these slots will continue to be a priority for us. The lack of Medicaid expansion in the Senate budget proposal is likely to set up a clash with Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper and Senate Democrats, who may be willing to bog down the budget process for months to get some form of expansion. Cooper can veto any public bill if he has the unanimous support of the 21 Democratic senators and loses no more than six Democratic votes in the House. The document cites Federal Bureau of Prisons "intelligence summaries," which claim that in March 2016, Lindh "told a television news producer that he would continue to spread violent extremist Islam upon his release." The document does not identify the news reporter and Foreign Policy says there is no "public record" of Lindh participating in media interviews. That doesn't mean it didn't happen, but if the interview exists now would be a good time to see it. Homegrown violent extremists have long been considered the most difficult to detect and monitor. Lindh's release is likely to give aid and comfort to potential terrorists already in the country and others seeking to enter the U.S. There is no indication Lindh has repented of his actions, much less changed his ideology, or brand of Islamic extremism. "Treason" is a word that should be used only in cases where an American citizen betrays his country and goes over to the enemy's side. Lindh fits that description. Tom Steyer - featured on a panel about climate change, not impeachment - pointed out that global warming often impacts poorer people harder than wealthy ones. There is a very inaccurate vision of who cares about the environment in America, Steyer said. In polling, Latinos are the group most likely to say they are concerned about the issue. And then there is economics, whether it be the high cost of child care frequently forcing one parent - who usually happens to be female - out of the workforce, or African Americans possessing significantly less net worth than white households. This is all the result of identity politics, but a form that goes mostly unrecognized and unacknowledged. A minority with power and money - white men, mostly wealthy, often religious or pretending to be so - has controlled societal and political norms so effectively that when those left outside simply insist on their rights, they are viewed as angry, resentful, demanding and divisive. When "identity politics" is practiced in such a way that it allows a small group to access and maintain power, it gets labeled as "norms" and treated as simply the way the world works. The left pushes identity politics so we can one day live in a world where none of us need to do that. The right does it so a small stratum of the population can retain money and power. One way we can fight back is by calling what they are doing by its rightful name. Many legislators are not aware that closing the Medicaid coverage gap for low-income working parents is crucial to the health, development and growth of their children. Mothers who have health insurance before conception are more likely to attend prenatal visits and give birth to healthy infants. Children whose parents have health insurance are 29 percent more likely to attend a preventive visit and receive vaccinations. Low-income parents with health insurance are more likely to spend time with their children and less time worrying about their health, out-of-pocket medical expenses or medical debt. Meeting with many state legislators with a group of pediatricians for White Coat Wednesday, it was clear that all support the health and well-being of children in and around Forsyth County; for that we are thankful. However, many were not aware that the health of parents is inextricably related to the health of their child, for which closing the Medicaid coverage gap is imperative. Now that Memorial Day is over, its time for most of us to go back to work. And for some members of the state legislature, its time to go back to meddling in local affairs. Such is the case with a bill that could be heard on the Senate floor today. Senate Bill 674, introduced last week by Senate leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, and Sen. Deanna Ballard, R-Wilkes, both of whom also represent Surry County, would make the three Surry County boards of education races partisan. The boards are Elkin City Schools, Mount Airy City Schools and Surry County Schools. Will it surprise anyone to learn that all three boards oppose this action? In fact, the three boards held a first-time-ever joint meeting in April, together signing a resolution to oppose any legislation changing the manner of election of any one or more of these boards of education from nonpartisan to partisan, the Journals Richard Craver reported last week. Other governing bodies, including the town of Elkin Board of Commissioners, were unanimously opposed to partisan elections, also, Elkin Mayor Sam Bishop told the Journal. Obviously, they still want to move forward with their partisan agenda, Bishop said. Abortion is a human right, read signs held by pro-abortion protesters. What about the human rights of unborn children whose beating hearts are about to be stopped? Do mothers have human rights to end the lives of children developing in wombs? Is the human right they claim ending the unborn childs life given them by God, or just because the child is in their body? Will the next logical human right of mothers (and/or fathers) be to end the life of a born child because of birth defects? Do abortion supporters agree with two murder charges a drug dealer is facing who sold heroin to an expectant mother? Today Cloudy in the morning, then off and on rain showers during the afternoon hours. High around 70F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%. Tonight Cloudy with periods of rain. Low 58F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch. Tomorrow Cloudy in the morning with scattered thunderstorms developing later in the day. High 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%. TORONTO, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alamos Gold Inc. (TSX:AGI; NYSE:AGI) (Alamos or the Company) today reported it has been granted amendments to its existing operational permits from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Ontario, allowing for the Phase II expansion of the Island Gold Mine to 1,200 tonnes per day (tpd). These amendments were received ahead of schedule and will allow underground mining and mill throughput rates to increase from the previously permitted rate of 1,100 tpd. Underground mining rates are expected to increase to 1,200 tpd in 2020. The Company will look for opportunities to ramp up mining rates to 1,200 tpd before the end of 2019; however, 2019 guidance for production and costs is unchanged. With a mine and mill that can both support throughput rates of 1,200 tpd, no additional capital will be required for the Phase II expansion. In parallel, the Company is continuing with a large ongoing exploration program at Island Gold which has been successful in driving significant growth in Mineral Reserves and Resources the last several years. This growth and ongoing exploration success is being incorporated into a Phase III expansion study beyond 1,200 tpd. The study is expected to be completed over the next year. Qualified Persons Chris Bostwick, FAusIMM, Alamos Golds Vice President, Technical Services, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Chris Bostwick is a Qualified Person within the meaning of Canadian Securities Administrators National Instrument 43-101. Upcoming Catalysts and News Flow Q2 2019 Young-Davidson and Island Gold Site Tours Mid-2019 Lynn Lake Optimization Study H2 2019 La Yaqui Grande EIA Approval H2 2019 Cerro Pelon Construction Update H2 2019 Kirazl Construction Update About Alamos Alamos is a Canadian-based intermediate gold producer with diversified production from four operating mines in North America. This includes the Young-Davidson and Island Gold mines in northern Ontario, Canada and the Mulatos and El Chanate mines in Sonora State, Mexico. Additionally, the Company has a significant portfolio of development stage projects in Canada, Mexico, Turkey, and the United States. Alamos employs more than 1,700 people and is committed to the highest standards of sustainable development. The Companys shares are traded on the TSX and NYSE under the symbol AGI. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Scott K. Parsons Vice President, Investor Relations (416) 368-9932 x 5439 All amounts are in United States dollars, unless otherwise stated. The TSX and NYSE have not reviewed and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note This news release contains statements which are, or may deemed to be, forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws (forward-looking statement(s)). All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, which address events, results, outcomes or developments that Alamos expects to occur are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally, but not always, identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "expect", "believe", "anticipate", "will", "intend", "estimate", "forecast", "budget" or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved or the negative connotation of such terms. Forward-looking statements in this news release include the statements with respect to underground mining and mill throughput rates, planned exploration programs, costs and expenditures, changes in Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, planned study results and other information that is based on forecasts and projections of future operational, geological or financial results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management at the time of making such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, legal, political and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Alamos cautions readers not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements which are not guarantees of future events as a number of factors could cause results, conditions, actions or events to differ materially from the targets, outlooks, expectations, goals, estimates or intentions expressed in the forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, the risks of obtaining and maintaining necessary licenses, permits and authorizations for the Companys planned exploration work as well as development stage and operating assets, the actual results of current exploration activities, conclusions of economic and geological evaluations, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined,; changes to current estimates of Mineral Reserves and Resources; changes to production estimates (which assume accuracy of projected ore grade, mining rates, recovery timing and recovery rate estimates and may be impacted by unscheduled maintenance; labour and contractor availability and other operating or technical difficulties); fluctuations in the price of gold; changes in foreign exchange rates (particularly the U.S. dollar and Canadian dollar); the impact of inflation; any decision to declare a dividend; employee and community relations; litigation and administrative proceedings; disruptions affecting the Companys Canadian operations; expropriation or nationalization of property; inherent risks and hazards associated with mining including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures and cave-ins; availability of and increased costs associated with mining inputs and labour; contests over title to properties; changes in national and local government legislation (including tax legislation), controls or regulations; risk of loss due to sabotage and civil disturbances and the impact of global liquidity and credit availability and the values of assets and liabilities based on projected future cash flows. Additional risk factors affecting the Company are set out in the Companys latest Form 40-F/ Annual Information Form and MD&A, each under the heading Risk Factors, available on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com or on EDGAR at www.sec.gov., and should be reviewed in conjunction with this news 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. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 28, 2019) - Zinc One Resources Inc. (TSXV: Z) (OTC Pink: ZZZOF) (FSE: RH33) ("Zinc One" or the "Company") announces that it has entered into a binding term sheet dated May 24, 2019 with InCoR Holdings Limited ("InCoR Holdings") and InCoR Zinc Ltd. ("InCoR Zinc" and together with InCoR Holdings "InCoR"). InCoR is a venture capital investor in the natural resources sector focused on the development and commercialization of minerals processing technologies. Under the binding term sheet, InCoR Zinc and Zinc One will form a joint venture (the "Joint Venture") with the intent of advancing the Bongara Zinc Mine Project and Charlotte-Bongara Zinc Project located in Peru (collectively, the "Bongara Project"). In consideration of InCoR Zinc providing funding of up to US $3.75 million, InCoR Zinc will earn up to an 80% interest in the Joint Venture. The transaction is an arm's length transaction as neither InCoR nor its affiliates are non-arm's length party to Zinc One. Zinc One will undertake rights offering for a minimum of CDN $1,224,439 and up to a maximum of CDN $2,448,942. As a shareholder, InCoR intends to participate in this rights offering. InCoR Holdings or its affiliates also will provide a short-term secured loan financing to Zinc One in an amount up to US $475,000, which funds will be used to satisfy ongoing operating expenses and annual claim fees in Peru. Highlights and Advantages to Transaction Objective of Joint Venture is to advance the high-grade zinc Bongara Project that contains: high-grade zinc near surface that includes intercepts of 46.8% Zn over 19.8 metres. highly accessible advanced stage deposits with community support. an Indicated Mineral Resource of 822,000 tonnes averaging 18.8% Zn containing 342,000,000 pounds of Zn at a 10% Zn cut-off and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 1,339,700 tonnes averaging 16.8% Zn containing 496,200,000 pounds of Zn at a 10% Zn cut-off as set forth in the Technical Report on the Bongara Zinc Project, Yambrasbamba District, Amazonas Region, Norther Peru dated March 11, 2019 and prepared by Albert W. Workman, P.Geo., and John Reddick, P.Geo (see news releases dated February 5, 2019 and March 18, 2019). InCoR will provide significant expertise in metallurgy, technical assessment and project development to advance the Bongara Project. Up to US $3,750,000 of funding for Bongara Project. All shareholders will have the right to participate in the Rights Offering (as defined below). Proposed Joint Venture Zinc One and InCoR Zinc propose to enter in a joint venture whereby InCoR Zinc will earn up to an 80% interest in the Bongara Project (the "Joint Venture"). In order for InCoR Zinc to earn its interest in the Joint Venture, InCoR Zinc will be required to fund the Joint Venture a total of US $3,750,000 (the "Funding") over three years as follows: Year 1. US $1,250,000 to acquire an initial 51% interest in the Joint Venture ("Year 1 Earn-in Amount") Year 2. US $1,250,000 to acquire an additional 19% interest in the Joint Venture (being a total of a 70% interest in the Joint Venture). Year 3. US $1,250,000 to acquire an additional 10% interest in the Joint Venture (being a total of an 80% interest in the Joint Venture). InCoR, at its option, may accelerate the Funding and earn its 80% interest prior to the end of the third year of the Joint Venture. If InCoR Zinc elects not to earn an 80% interest in the Joint Venture, Zinc One will have the right to repurchase InCoR Zinc's interest in the Joint Venture in an amount equal to two times the amount previously funded by InCoR. The Funding may be used to satisfy ongoing annual property fees, operating costs, exploration expenditures and metallurgical and economic studies on the Bongara Project. Until such time as InCoR Zinc holds more than 50% of the Joint Venture, a team mutually acceptable to the parties shall be responsible for the day-to-day management, administration and technical oversight of the business of Joint Venture. During the period in which InCoR Zinc holds more than 50% of the Joint Venture, InCoR Zinc shall have the right to be responsible for the day-to-day management, administration and technical oversight of the business of Joint Venture. The party carrying such day-to-day management and responsibility will be entitled to claim reasonable cost reimbursement for such management and administration services from Joint Venture pursuant to a management services agreement as agreed by the parties. The parties interests in the Joint Venture will be subject to standard dilution provisions. If a party (the "Diluted Party") is diluted to a 5% interest in the Joint Venture, the Diluted Party's interest will be converted to a 2% Net Smelter Return, which may be repurchased by the other party for an amount equal to US $5,000,000. If a feasibility study is completed on the development Bongara Project and the use of a hydrometallurgical process licensed by InCoR Holdings (the "Process") is used in future processing, InCoR Holdings will sub-license the Process to the Joint Venture and, in consideration of which, the Joint Venture will be required to satisfy certain license royalties of InCoR Holdings. InCoR owns a total of 5,450,000 common shares of Zinc One, representing 4.45% of the issued and outstanding shares of Zinc One. The parties have agreed to enter into a definitive agreement by no later than August 31, 2019. Until such date, Zinc One has agreed not to negotiate or enter into other transactions relating to the Bongara Project. The Joint Venture will be subject to due diligence of InCoR Zinc, shareholder approvals (if required) and acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange. Rights Offering Zinc One also announces that it will be proceeding with a rights offering to raise a minimum of CDN $1,224,439 and up to a maximum of CDN $2,448,942. Zinc One will be offering rights to holders of its common shares on the basis of one right for each each one (1) common share held (the "Rights Offering"). Each right will entitle the holder to subscribe for one share of the Company (a "Share") upon payment of a subscription price of $0.02 per Share. The Rights Offering will include an additional subscription privilege under which eligible holders of the rights, who fully exercise their rights, will be entitled to subscribe, on a pro rata basis with other shareholders who participate in the oversubscription, for common shares that have not been purchased under the Rights Offering. The rights will not trade on the TSX Venture Exchange. Upon TSX Venture Exchange conditional acceptance of the Rights Offering, Zinc One will issue a subsequent news release providing further details on the Rights Offering including the record date and expiry date of the Rights Offering. Details of the Rights Offering will be set out in the Rights Offering notice and Rights Offering circular which will be available under Zinc One's profile at www.sedar.com. The Rights Offering notice and accompanying rights certificate will be mailed to each eligible shareholder of Zinc One as at the determined record date. Registered shareholders who wish to exercise their rights will be required to forward the completed rights certificate, together with the applicable funds, to the rights agent, Computershare Investor Services Inc., on or before the expiry time. Shareholders who own their common shares through an intermediary, such as a bank, trust company, securities dealer or broker, will receive materials and instructions from their intermediary. Rights delivered to brokers, dealers or other intermediaries may not be delivered by those intermediaries to beneficial shareholders who are residents in a jurisdiction outside of Canada. Zinc One currently has 122,443,942 common shares outstanding. After completion fo the Rights Offering, Zinc One will issue a total of 61,221,971 common shares, assuming completion of the minimum offering amount, and up to 122,433,942 common shares, assuming completion of the maximum offering amount. The net proceeds of the offering will be used to repay corporate indebtedness, reduce trade payables, incurring US $200,000 for geological, resource modelling and technical studies on the Bongara Project and general working capital. The Rights Offering is subject to acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange. Secured Loan InCoR Holdings has also agreed to lend to Zinc One up to US $475,000 to Zinc One (the "Loan"). The Loan will bear interest at a rate of 15% per annum and be due twelve months after being advanced by InCoR Holdings. In the event that the Joint Venture is formed prior to the maturity of the Loan, the Loan will be applied to the Year 1 Earn-in Amount payable by InCoR Zinc under the Joint Venture. As security for the Loan, Zinc One will pledge all of the issued and outstanding shares of Forrester Metals Inc. and the Joint Venture company in favour of InCoR Holdings. The proceeds of the Loan will be used to satisfy the annual property payments on the Bongara Zinc Mine Project and the Charlotte-Bongara Zinc Project located in Peru. The Loan will be subject to customary positive and restrictive covenants and is subject to acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange. Qualified Person The technical content of this news release has been reviewed, verified and approved by Dr. Bill Williams, a senior advisor to Zinc One and a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101. About InCoR InCoR is a venture capital investor in the natural resources sector focused on the development and commercialization of minerals processing technologies. Its business model is to pair investment in minerals processing technologies with investment in mineral resources and processing facilities. InCoR's key management are experienced industry professionals in the disciplines of hydrometallurgy, geology, engineering design, construction, investment banking and private equity. InCoR applies hydrometallurgical technologies to produce metal products using new technologies that have environmental benefits over alternative pyrometallurgical processing. Environmental sustainability is a key tenet of InCoR's investment philosophy. InCoR holds interests in base metals, as follows: Lead - processing technologies for recovery of lead from lead oxide and lead sulphide material utilising methane sulfonic acid as a leaching agent, paired with its investment in LeadFX Inc.; Copper - processing technologies for leaching copper from copper concentrates containing copper sulphides including chalcopyrite concentrates and concentrates containing arsenic and antimony compounds, together known as the GALVANOXTM process; Nickel - processing technology for recovery of nickel from nickel saprolite ore, known as the Starved Acid Leaching technology or SALT; and Zinc - processing technology for recovery of high purity zinc oxide from mined zinc material. In rare and strategic metals, InCoR has investments in: Indium - recovery of indium (and silver, gold and other precious and base metals) from complex oxide and sulphide ores; and Rare Earths - recovery of high purity mixed rare earth oxide concentrates via its investment in Search Minerals Inc. About Zinc One Resources Inc. Zinc One's key assets are the Bongara Zinc Mine Project and the Charlotte-Bongara Zinc Project in north-central Peru. The Bongara Zinc Mine Project was in production from 2007 to 2008, but was closed due to the global financial crisis and concurrent decrease in the zinc price. Past production included >20% zinc grades and recoveries over 90% from surface and near-surface zinc-oxide mineralization. High-grade, zinc-oxide mineralization is known to outcrop between the mined area and the Charlotte-Bongara Project, which is over six kilometres to the NNW and where past drilling intercepted various near-surface zones with high-grade zinc as well. The Company has reported an Indicated Mineral Resource of 822,000 tonnes averaging 18.8% Zn containing 342,000,000 pounds of Zn at a 10% Zn cut-off and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 1,339,700 tonnes averaging 16.8% Zn containing 496,200,000 pounds of Zn at a 10% Zn cut-off (see news releases dated February 5, 2019 and March 18, 2019). Additional Information Gunther Roehlig Interim CEO Zinc One Resources Inc. Phone: (604) 683-0911 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. www.zincone.com U.S. Securities Law Matters THE SECURITIES OFFERED HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE U.S. 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 REQUIREMENTS. THIS PRESS 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 STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. Forward-Looking Statements Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. Zinc One cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by many material factors, many of which are beyond their respective control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to Zinc One's limited operating history, its proposed exploration and development activities on the Bongara Zinc Mine Project and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, Zinc One does not undertake to publicly update or revise forward-looking information. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA TORONTO, May 28, 2019 /CNW/ - First Cobalt Corp. (TSX-V: FCC, ASX: FCC, OTCQX: FTSSF) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that a scoping study for the restart of the First Cobalt Refinery in Canada using third party cobalt hydroxide as feed material concluded that annual production could reach over 5,000 tonnes per annum ("tpa") of cobalt, more than twice the previous estimate. By eliminating the Refinery's autoclave circuit and addressing production constraints, the debottlenecking study by Ausenco Engineering Canada Inc. estimated the incremental capital cost to double production capacity will be $7.5 million from the previous estimate or $37.5 million in total. All numbers are in US dollars. A final decision on whether to put the First Cobalt Refinery back into production has not been made at this time and is contingent on the outcome of ongoing discussions and studies. The Company has not completed a feasibility level study of the economic viability of operating the Refinery. Any decision to restart the Refinery will be based on a supply of third party feed material and not the anticipated development of any of the Company's current mineral projects. Highlights Ausenco defined the production capacity, capital costs and operating costs associated with recommissioning the Refinery in Ontario, Canada using third party cobalt hydroxide as the primary feed material to produce a battery grade cobalt sulfate using third party cobalt hydroxide as the primary feed material to produce a battery grade cobalt sulfate Study outlines potential to double production to over 5,000 tpa of cobalt by increasing the initial capital investment from $30 million to $37.5 million and expanding the flow sheet circuit to optimize the existing building footprint to and expanding the flow sheet circuit to optimize the existing building footprint Discussions continue with Glencore and other third parties on definitive commercial terms for feed supply and financing to restart the First Cobalt Refinery within 18 to 24 months Trent Mell, President & Chief Executive Officer of First Cobalt, commented: "The First Cobalt Refinery is a strategic North American asset and producing cobalt materials for the North American market is our quickest path to cash flow. The facility is in excellent condition with permits in place, good community support and a short timeline to potential production. The ability of the First Cobalt Refinery to produce 5,000 tonnes per annum in a global cobalt market that totaled approximately 130,000 tonnes in 2018, would be an important contribution to the global supply chain, particularly the U.S. market." First Cobalt engaged Ausenco to complete a scoping-level study in support of restarting the refinery, located near Cobalt, Ontario. The debottlenecking study assessed the production capacity of the refinery and associated constraints assuming that cobalt hydroxide would be the primary source of feed material for the production of cobalt sulphate. Previous studies assumed that the refinery would treat lower grade arsenic-rich concentrate material. The report outlined three restart scenarios, each assuming that the refinery would primarily treat cobalt hydroxide grading approximately 30% cobalt. In all scenarios, the Refinery's autoclave circuit is not required thereby eliminating the first constraint to higher production rates. The first scenario (Case 0) assumed minimal capital investment outside refurbishing existing equipment. The next scenario (Case 1) assumed an additional capital investment to alleviate the bottleneck in the current solvent extraction (SX) circuit. The final scenario added an additional capital investment to alleviate the liquid-solid separation limitations of the currently installed equipment. Details of the three scenarios are summarized in Table 1. Table 1. Potential production scenarios (Numbers in US$) DESCRIPTION PRODUCTION (TPA*) CAPITAL COST (with contingency) OPERATING COST (annual) Case 0 Using currently installed equipment, flowsheet changed to process cobalt hydroxide feed. Production limited by the capacity of the currently installed SX circuit. 675 $12.0M $9.3M Case 1 Using an expanded SX circuit, production is limited by capacity of the currently installed liquid-solid separation equipment 1,964 $18.4M $17.4M Case 2 Using additional liquid-solid separation equipment, production limited by filtration capacity and the size of the existing building 5,020 $37.5M $36.4M * Tonnes per annum of cobalt in cobalt sulfate Today's results further support the business case to restart the First Cobalt Refinery as it could be expanded from its previously anticipated production potential of 2,000-2,500 tpa to over 5,000 tpa of cobalt in sulfate. While the 675 tpa production scenario offers a minimum investment case, based on the minimal increase in capital requirements from the 2018 Primero study, First Cobalt intends to explore the potential to increase production to 5,000 tpa of cobalt contained in sulfate. The capital requirements presented here include contingencies of $3.02 million, 4.61 million and 10.39 million for cases 0, 1 and 2 respectively. Capital estimates are provided with an indicative accuracy range of -30%/+50% and are based on previous historical data metrics from similar projects. The 675 tpa production scenario involves simply restarting the refinery "as is" using only currently installed equipment and making necessary flowsheet changes to process cobalt hydroxide to produce cobalt sulfate. In this scenario, production of cobalt sulfate is limited by the capacity of the currently installed solvent extraction ("SX") circuit. Building on the 675 tpa scenario, the 1,950 tpa scenario includes the additional capital to overcome the limitation imposed by the current SX circuit. Under this operating scenario, production of cobalt sulfate is limited by the capacity of the currently installed liquid-solid separation equipment. The preferred 5,000 tpa scenario then builds on both lower production rate scenarios and includes additional capital to overcome the limitation imposed by the liquid-solid separation equipment. Under this operating scenario, production of cobalt sulfate is limited by filtration capacity and the size of the existing building. The study completed by Ausenco does not access the economic viability of operating the Refinery, and instead estimates the costs associated with recommissioning and operating the Refinery under the above scenarios. Next Steps First Cobalt recently announced a memorandum of understanding ("MoU") with Glencore AG to supply cobalt feedstock and financing to recommission the facility (May 21, 2019 press release). Discussions are ongoing and the parties have agreed to a 60-day timeline to negotiate definitive agreements. The First Cobalt Refinery project team is continuing to work with engineering firms, process experts and financial advisers to finalize a business plan to restart the facility. Next steps include advanced metallurgical testing to demonstrate that the flowsheet will achieve the desired product specifications. Feasibility level engineering and test work will be required to support the design of new equipment, specifically solvent extraction and liquid-solid separation, and to generate detailed quotations, engineering and further cost estimates. Figure 1 First Cobalt Refinery Aerial View About the First Cobalt Refinery The First Cobalt Refinery is a hydrometallurgical cobalt-silver-nickel refinery in the Canadian Cobalt Camp, approximately 600 kilometres from the US border. The facility was commissioned in 1996 and currently has a nominal throughput of 12 to 24 tpd. The Refinery historically treated mine concentrates and is permitted to treat feed with high arsenic content. The current footprint includes an empty feed warehouse that once housed a mill. The facility is located on a 40-acre property that can be expanded to 120 acres with two settling ponds and an autoclave pond (Figure 2). Figure 2 - Exterior and property footprint of the First Cobalt Refinery With respect to existing tailings capacity, it was noted that the autoclave pond has not been fully constructed and has an estimated 40,000 m3 (approximately 70,000 tonnes assuming a specific gravity of 1.74 tonnes per cubic metre) of remaining permitted capacity yet to be constructed. Operating at 24 tpd, the autoclave pond would reach capacity after eight years of operation. Thereafter, the Company could avail itself of 80 acres to the north of the Refinery (Figure 3) to permit additional tailings storage capacity. The primary settling pond is also not yet constructed to its full capacity and it was noted that doing so would improve discharge water quality through additional retention time and increased capacity for water storage. Figure 3 Tailings Expansion Area Partial View Previous Studies In 2018, First Cobalt completed three studies to assess options for a restart of the facility: (1) a desktop engineering review of the current flowsheet and associated capital and operating costs to treat arsenic-rich mine concentrates at a throughput rate of 12 to 50 tpd; (2) a permit review to assess the time required to renew and amend existing operating permits; and (3) a market study to identify potential feed sources and final products and estimate gross margin opportunities (see October 10, 2018 press release). Subsequent studies by SGS to test the suitability of cobalt hydroxide as feedstock and using the processes in the current refinery flowsheet the Refinery flowsheet is capable of producing a high purity, battery grade cobalt sulfate from cobalt hydroxide (see November 8, 2018 and April 3, 2019 press releases) For purposes of this earlier baseline engineering study, Primero Group assumed that the Refinery would continue to treat mine concentrates, that the flowsheet would remain unchanged and that the final product would be cobalt carbonate. However, with the decision to treat third party cobalt hydroxide material, Ausenco was retained to prepare a new scoping level assessment under a modified flowsheet. As part of the engineering review, Primero Group estimated the replacement (or new build) value of the refinery building at the various throughput rates. In 2012, Hatch estimated the replacement cost of the Refinery at $78M. Primero's results from the current study range from $53M to $143M, inclusive of a 30% contingency. In instances, replacement cost estimates were limited to the refinery building and did not include replacement costs of site level infrastructure, including roadways, power lines and the tailings management facility. The value of the permits was also excluded for purposes of this exercise. Corporate Update The Company has engaged Catch Advisory Group ("Catch") to conduct investor relations activities on its behalf. Catch will be paid in cash based on a prescribed hourly rate which is expected to approximate $5,000 per month. Catch currently does not hold any securities of First Cobalt and have no immediate intention of acquiring any of the Company's securities in the foreseeable future. About First Cobalt First Cobalt is a Canadian-based pure-play cobalt company and owner of the only permitted primary cobalt refinery in North America. The Company is exploring a restart of the First Cobalt Refinery in Ontario, Canada, which could produce over 5,000 tonnes of contained cobalt in sulfate per year. First Cobalt's main cobalt development project is the Iron Creek Cobalt Project in Idaho, USA, which has an inferred mineral resource estimate available on the Company's website. The mineral resource delineated on the Iron Creek Cobalt Project is not expected to provide a source of feed for the First Cobalt Refinery. On behalf of First Cobalt Corp. Trent Mell President & Chief Executive Officer Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release may contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as "plans", "expects', "estimates", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or variations of such words, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance and opportunities to differ materially from those implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements are set forth in the management discussion and analysis and other disclosures of risk factors for First Cobalt, filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although First Cobalt believes that the information and assumptions used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed times frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, First Cobalt disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. All amounts expressed in U.S. dollars SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 27, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The proposed expansion of Pueblo Viejo, already one of the worlds Tier One1 gold mines, includes an expansion of the mines processing plant and tailings capacity with an estimated initial capital investment of more than a billion dollars (100% basis) and the potential to extend the life of the mine into the 2030s and beyond2. Barrick expects to complete a feasibility study for the expansion project during 2020. The proposed capital investment would more than double the contribution the mine has already made to the Dominican Republic. Barrick Gold Corporations President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow, speaking at a local media briefing here today, said the proposed investment was further evidence of the joint venture partners long-term commitment to the social and economic development of the Dominican Republic. We look forward to continue making a significant and growing contribution to our communities and other stakeholders and to unlocking the enormous value of its mineral potential while addressing the historical third-party environmental issues, he said. Barrick manages the mine which is a joint venture with Newmont Goldcorp. Bristow noted that the joint venture partners had already invested $5.2 billion in Pueblo Viejo, which represents almost 20% of the total foreign direct investment in the Dominican Republic over the past 10 years. Direct cash taxes paid by the mine amounted to $1.6 billion which represents 57% of the cash distributions compared to 43% earned by the joint venture partners. Since 2013 the mine has accounted for 30% of the countrys exports, and generated a net added value of $5.7 billion and a total net added value of $8.5 billion, equal to 2% of the Dominican gross domestic product. Some 96% of the mines employees are Dominicans and this has also had a significant impact on the lives of the more than 90,000 people in neighboring communities who have benefited from its community upliftment programs. It has also promoted the development of the local economy, spending more than $123 million with local contractors and suppliers over the past six years, Bristow said. We look forward to building on what we have already achieved here, and to continue creating value for all our stakeholders, notably the government and people of the Dominican Republic and our shareholders. Enquiries: Mark Bristow President and CEO +1 647 205 7694 +44 788 071 1386 Mark Hill Chief Operating Officer LATAM and Asia Pacific +1 (416) 307 7429 +1 (416) 358 4667 Kathy du Plessis Relations with Media and Investors +44 20 7557 7738 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Website: www.barrick.com About Barrick On January 1, 2019, a new Barrick was born as a result of the merger between Barrick Gold Corporation and Randgold Resources Limited. Shares in the new company trade on NYSE (GOLD) and TSX (ABX). The merger has created a sector-leading gold company which owns five of the industrys Top 10 Tier One gold assets Cortez and Goldstrike in Nevada, in the United States (100%); Kibali in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (45%); Loulo-Gounkoto in Mali (80%); and Pueblo Viejo in the Dominican Republic (60%) and two with the potential to become the gold assets of the first level: Goldrush / Fourmile (100%) and Turquoise Ridge (75%), both in the United States. With mining operations and projects in 15 countries, including Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, the Ivory Coast, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Dominican Republic, Mali, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, the United States and Zambia, Barrick has the lowest total cash cost position among its senior gold peers and a diversified asset portfolio positioned for growth in many of the world's most prolific gold districts. Endnotes: 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. For additional detail regarding Pueblo Viejo, see the Technical Report on the Pueblo Viejo mine, Sanchez Ramirez Province, Dominican Republic, dated March 19, 2018, and filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and EDGAR at www.sec.gov on March 23, 2018. Technical Information The scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by John Steele, CIM, Metallurgy, Engineering and Capital Projects Executive, who is a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information Certain information contained in this press release, including any information as to Barricks strategy, plans, or future operating or environmental performance, constitutes forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. The words proposed will, future, expansion, estimated, extend, expect, and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking statements including, without limitation, with respect to proposed investments in the Dominican Republic and the potential for the expansion project at Pueblo Viejo to increase throughput, convert resources into reserves and extend the life of the mine. 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 the Pueblo Viejo expansion project and other projects in the early stages of evaluation, and for which additional engineering and other analysis is required to fully assess their impact; 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; 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 the Dominican Republic, 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 Indicated resources increase by 65%, to 22.95 million tonnes Additional inferred resources of 11.15 million tonnes Contained metals (indicated): 1.5 billion lbs Zn / 590 million lbs Cu Contained metals (inferred): 450 million lbs Zn / 340 million lbs Cu VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Foran Mining Corporation (TSX.V: FOM) (Foran or the Company) is pleased to announce an increased mineral resource estimate (the 2019 Resource Estimate) for the Companys 100%-owned McIlvenna Bay Deposit (McIlvenna Bay or the Deposit) located in east-central Saskatchewan. McIlvenna Bay is one of the largest, undeveloped volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) deposits in Canada. Highlights include: Indicated resources have increased 65%, from 13.9 million tonnes (Mt) to 22.95Mt (compared to previous 2013 resource) (see Table 1) Grading 1.17% copper, 3.05% zinc, 0.19% lead, 0.44 grams per tonne (g/t) gold and 16.68 g/t silver Contains 1.5 billion pounds Zn and 590 million pounds Cu (see Table 2) Grading 1.17% copper, 3.05% zinc, 0.19% lead, 0.44 grams per tonne (g/t) gold and 16.68 g/t silver Contains and (see Table 2) Inferred resources are now 11.15Mt Grading 1.38% copper, 1.83% zinc, 0.10 % lead, 0.47 g/t gold and 14.81 g/t silver Contains 450 million pounds Zn and 340 million pounds Cu Grading 1.38% copper, 1.83% zinc, 0.10 % lead, 0.47 g/t gold and 14.81 g/t silver Contains and Significant increase of contained metals within the Deposit compared to previous 2013 resource 89% increase in zinc, 52% increase in copper, 48% increase in gold and 61% increase in silver in the indicated category 89% increase in zinc, 52% increase in copper, 48% increase in gold and 61% increase in silver in the indicated category The Deposit resources are defined by: over 115,000 metres (m) of drilling in 239 holes includes over 27,000m of infill and expansion drilling completed in 64 drill holes since the last resource update in 2013 over 115,000 metres (m) of drilling in 239 holes includes over 27,000m of infill and expansion drilling completed in 64 drill holes since the last resource update in 2013 Main Lens massive sulphide (Main Lens) and adjacent Copper Stockwork Zone (CSZ) together have an average combined thickness of 17.6m through the Deposit Deposit starts at the paleosurface (~25m below surface) and extends down-plunge approximately 2km, and The Deposit is open, with potential to further increase the size of the resource with additional drilling. Patrick Soares, President and CEO of Foran commented: In the past 18 months, Foran shareholders entrusted our management team with over C$14 million of new funds to unlock the value of the McIlvenna Bay Deposit. Today, we reached our first critical milestone by issuing an updated mineral resource estimate. Infill drilling has increased indicated resources by 65% and improved our confidence in the grade and tonnage of the Deposit. McIlvenna Bay is a large, cohesive VMS deposit, containing considerable amounts of copper and zinc, along with gold, silver and lead. The contained metal within the Deposit has significantly increased since our last resource update. We are now pulling this information into the delivery of another key milestone, a Feasibility Study, scheduled for release before the end of the year, Mr. Soares further noted. The 2019 Resource Estimate will be used to support the upcoming feasibility study (Feasibility Study), expected in Q4 2019. The mineral resource estimate was audited and verified by Mr. William Lewis, P.Geo. of Micon International Limited (Micon), independent of Foran and a Qualified Person as defined within National Instrument 43-101 (NI43-101) The 2019 Resource Estimate is summarized in Table 1. See below for additional information with respect to Qualified Person, Estimation Methodology and Parameters. Table 1. McIlvenna Bay 2019 Mineral Resource Estimate (US$60/t NSR cut-off) 1-6 Zone Tonnage (Mt) Cu (%) Zn (%) Pb (%) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) CuEq (%) ZnEq (%) Indicated Main Lens Massive Sulphide 9.25 0.90 6.43 0.40 0.52 25.97 - 10.25 Lens 3 1.99 0.85 3.29 0.14 0.27 14.71 - 6.45 Stringer Zone 0.70 1.38 0.62 0.04 0.35 13.34 1.73 - Copper Stockwork Zone 10.30 1.43 0.28 0.02 0.40 9.30 1.73 - Copper Stockwork Footwall Zone 0.71 1.60 1.04 0.04 0.54 11.47 2.20 - Total Indicated 22.95 1.17 3.05 0.19 0.44 16.68 Inferred Main Lens Massive Sulphide 2.97 1.29 4.79 0.29 0.47 23.58 - 9.70 Copper Stockwork Zone 8.18 1.42 0.76 0.03 0.47 11.63 1.77 - Total Inferred 11.15 1.38 1.83 0.10 0.47 14.81 1 Effective date May 7, 2019; CIM definitions were followed for Mineral Resources; CuEq = copper equivalent; ZnEq = zinc equivalent; NSR = Net Smelter Return. 2 The base case mineral resource is estimated based on 239 diamond drill holes and a NSR cut-off grade of US$60/t. NSR grades were calculated and high-grade caps were applied as per the discussion in Estimation Methodology and Parameters below and include provisions for metallurgical recovery and estimates of current shipping terms and smelter rates for similar concentrates. Metal prices used are US$3.30/lb. Cu, US$1.25/lb. Zn, US$1.00/lb. Pb, US$1,310/oz. Au, and US$16.20/oz. Ag. Specific gravity was interpolated for each block based on measurements taken from core specimens. 3 Mr. William Lewis, P.Geo., of Micon, has reviewed and verified this mineral resource estimate. Mr. Lewis is independent of Foran and is a Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101. 4 Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of mineral resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, marketing or other issues. 5 CuEq and ZnEq values were calculated from the NSR values for the zones using a factor of $55.71 per % Cu for the CSZ and a factor of $46.69 per % Cu and $15.10 per % Zn for all other zones. 6A sensitivity table is provided in Table 3 below which demonstrates the variation in tonnage and grade for the deposit at different NSR cut-offs. The 2019 Resource Estimate builds on and supersedes the previous comprehensive National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) mineral resource estimate for the Deposit which was announced by the Company on March 27, 2013 (the 2013 Resource). The 2019 Resource Estimate is estimated using long-term metal price projections of US$3.30/lb. for copper, US$1.25/lb. for zinc, US$1.00/lb. for lead, US$1,310/oz. for gold and US$16.20/oz. for silver. The base case uses a US$60/t NSR cut-off using provisions for metallurgical recoveries, smelter payables, refining costs, freight, and applicable royalties, consistent with the cut-off used for the 2013 Resource. Roger March, VP Exploration of Foran, commented, The McIlvenna Bay Deposit has now been defined by 239 diamond drill holes and over 115,000 metres of drilling. This includes almost 27,000m of infill and expansion drilling completed in 2018 during a work program designed to increase our confidence in the Deposit. Our on-site technical team, supported by a team of professional drillers and field crews, accomplished this program under strict geological control allowing us to successfully hit our targets and reach this milestone. The new resource estimate shows that the Deposit is already host to a large metal endowment and the 2018 program has demonstrated that the Deposit continues to display good continuity at depth and remains open for expansion. We remain confident that the resource can continue to grow with further drilling. Contained Metal There has been substantial growth in the Deposit since the 2013 Resource was issued. This is demonstrated by the large increase in contained metal in the Deposit, including an 89% increase in contained Zn, a 52% increase in contained Cu, a 61% increase in contained Ag and a 48% increase in contained Au in the indicated category which equates to over 1.5 billion pounds of zinc, almost 600 million pounds of copper, over 12 million ounces of silver and over 300,000 ounces of gold See Table 2 below for a table outlining the contained metal in the 2019 Resource Estimate. Table 2. Contained Metal (US$60/t NSR cut-off) 1, 2 Zone Resource Zn Cu Ag Au Pb Classification Mlb Mlb Koz Koz Mlb CSZ Indicated 63.6 325.2 3,077.1 132.5 5.1 Inferred 136.3 255.7 3,059.3 124.2 5.6 FW Indicated 16.3 25.1 262.4 12.4 0.7 Lens 3 Indicated 144.5 37.6 943.0 17.4 6.0 MS Indicated 1,310.7 183.8 7,724.9 153.5 81.6 Inferred 314.0 84.3 2,253.0 44.9 19.3 Stringer Indicated 9.5 21.2 299.7 7.8 0.6 Total Indicated 1,544.7 592.9 12,307.1 323.7 93.8 Inferred 450.3 339.9 5,312.3 169.1 24.9 1 Totals may not add due to rounding 2 See footnotes 1-5 for Table 1 Mineralization The 2019 Resource Estimate includes several zones and two distinct styles of mineralization, typical of VMS deposits: massive to semi-massive sulphide mineralization in the Main Lens and Lens 3; stockwork-style sulphide mineralization in CSZ that directly underlies the Main Lens; two other small lenses of stockwork-style mineralization occur in the Deposit: the Stringer Zone which is located between the Main Lens and Lens 3 the Copper Stockwork Footwall Zone (CSFWZ) which occurs as a separate lens underneath the CSZ for approximately 140m of strike length which could represent a fault offset and repetition of the Main Lens and CSZ The Main Lens at McIlvenna Bay is a large massive to semi-massive sulphide horizon containing a metal zonation consisting of Cu-Au-rich material near the upper plunge line of the Deposit which transitions down dip into a more Zn-Ag-dominant massive sulphide. In the 2013 Resource, the Main Lens was sub-divided into the Upper West (UWZ) and Zone 2 based on these differences in mineralogy, but for the 2019 Resource Estimate, the Main Lens massive sulphide is reported as a single zone. This is a result of statistical analysis of the assay grades within the lens, which suggests that there is a gradational transition between the two zones and that a hard boundary is not really appropriate; coupled with the fact that they will likely be mined together without any distinction between the zones in the Feasibility Study. The Main Lens massive sulphide is a continuous mineralized horizon which varies from 0.1 to 36.0m in thickness and averages 5.5m overall, with a strike length of 1,700m (Figure 1). The CSZ is a zone of stockwork style copper-rich mineralization that directly underlies and is in contact with the massive sulphide and is interpreted to represent the feeder zone to the massive sulphide system. The CSZ varies from 0.3 to 37.2m in thickness with an average thickness of 12.1m. The Main Lens massive sulphide and the underlying CSZ are generally in contact with one another throughout the Deposit, giving the bulk of the Deposit an average thickness of 17.6m overall. The Deposit plunges at approximately 45 degrees from surface for a down plunge length of approximately 2000m (Figure 2). Lens 3 sits approximately 10 to 30m in the hangingwall above the Main Lens and demonstrates the presence of stacked sulphide lenses in the Deposit (Figure 3). This lens has been traced intermittently along a strike length of 1,440m and plunges parallel to the underlying Main Lens and CSZ. The lens ranges in thickness from 0.1 to 12.5m and averages 2.8m. The Stringer Zone is a narrow intermittent lens of stringer-style sulphide that occurs sporadically between the Main Lens and Lens 3 through the Deposit. The CSFWZ is a separate lens that underlies the CSZ and has been intersected in nine drill holes over approximately 140m of strike length in the up-dip, central part of the Deposit. The lens varies in thickness from 0.3 to 17m with an average thickness of 4.4m. The CSFWZ dominantly consists of stockwork style copper-rich mineralization similar to the CSZ, although in several holes, narrow massive sulphide was also intersected at the top of the interval. It is possible that the CSFWZ represents a fault offset and repetition of the Main Lens and CSZ, but further drilling is required to prove the relationship of this lens to the rest of the Deposit. Sensitivity Analysis A sensitivity analysis is provided in Table 3 below for the indicated and inferred resources for the 2019 Resource Estimate, which demonstrates the variation in grade and tonnage in the deposit as a result of employing different NSR cut-offs. Table 3. Mineral Resource Estimate Sensitivity Analysis1 Zone Tonnage (Mt) Cu (%) Zn (%) Pb (%) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) US$75/t NSR cut-off - Indicated Main Lens Massive Sulphide 9.13 0.91 6.46 0.40 0.52 26.05 Lens 3 1.62 0.87 3.60 0.15 0.28 15.26 Stringer Zone 0.42 1.50 0.71 0.04 0.38 13.59 Copper Stockwork Zone 7.33 1.59 0.30 0.02 0.47 10.29 Copper Stockwork Footwall Zone 0.52 1.76 1.30 0.05 0.62 13.25 Total Indicated 19.02 1.21 3.58 0.22 0.48 18.44 US$75/t NSR cut-off - Inferred Main Lens Massive Sulphide 2.92 1.30 4.81 0.29 0.47 23.60 Copper Stockwork Zone 6.22 1.55 0.77 0.03 0.54 12.43 Total Inferred 9.14 1.47 2.06 0.11 0.52 16.01 US$60/t NSR cut-off Indicated (Base Case) Main Lens Massive Sulphide 9.25 0.90 6.43 0.40 0.52 25.97 Lens 3 1.99 0.85 3.29 0.14 0.27 14.71 Stringer Zone 0.70 1.38 0.62 0.04 0.35 13.34 Copper Stockwork Zone 10.30 1.43 0.28 0.02 0.40 9.30 Copper Stockwork Footwall Zone 0.71 1.60 1.04 0.04 0.54 11.47 Total Indicated 22.95 1.17 3.05 0.19 0.44 16.68 US$60/t NSR cut-off Inferred (Base Case) Main Lens Massive Sulphide 2.97 1.29 4.79 0.29 0.47 23.58 Copper Stockwork Zone 8.18 1.42 0.76 0.03 0.47 11.63 Total Inferred 11.15 1.38 1.83 0.10 0.47 14.81 US$45/t NSR cut-off Indicated Main Lens Massive Sulphide 9.31 0.90 6.41 0.40 0.51 25.93 Lens 3 2.23 0.84 3.07 0.13 0.27 14.31 Stringer Zone 0.97 1.25 0.61 0.04 0.31 12.84 Copper Stockwork Zone 12.12 1.34 0.27 0.02 0.36 8.74 Copper Stockwork Footwall Zone 0.86 1.50 0.90 0.04 0.48 10.39 Total Indicated 25.49 1.14 2.79 0.17 0.41 15.72 US$45/t NSR cut-off Inferred Main Lens Massive Sulphide 3.05 1.26 4.74 0.30 0.46 23.48 Copper Stockwork Zone 9.61 1.33 0.74 0.03 0.43 11.03 Total Inferred 12.66 1.31 1.70 0.09 0.44 14.03 1 See footnotes 1-5 for Table 1 The base case presented in this release is estimated using a US$60/t NSR cut-off which was selected as being representative of the comparable North American operations. Qualified Persons The 2019 Resource Estimate meets the guidelines as set out in NI43-101 and was audited and verified by Micon, a global geological and mining consultancy. The 2019 Resource Estimate was verified by Mr. William Lewis, P.Geo. Mr. Lewis is a Qualified Person as defined in NI43-101 and has consented to applicable disclosure contained herein regarding the 2019 Resource Estimate. Mr. Roger March, P. Geo., Vice President Exploration for Foran, is the Qualified Person for all technical information in this news release, excluding the 2019 Resource Estimate. Mr. March has reviewed and approved the technical information in this release. Estimation Methodology and Parameters The 2019 Resource Estimate update included a re-interpretation of the mineralized envelopes in the Deposit following the incorporation of over 27,000m of diamond drilling completed since the 2013 Resource. The 2019 Resource Estimate was carried out using a block model constrained by 3D wireframes of the mineralized zones. Values for Cu, Zn, Au, Ag, and Pb were interpolated into the blocks using Ordinary Kriging, with validation estimates using ID2 and nearest-neighbour performed to confirm results. Block size was 10m wide (east-west) x 2m across (north-south) x 10m high. The models were constructed using Leapfrog Edge software. The 2019 Resource Estimate has an effective date of May 7, 2019. The 2019 Resource Estimate is based entirely on diamond drilling data. The database contained records for 246 diamond drill holes (including seven short Geotech holes) of which 239 target the deposit, with a total of 8,765 assay intervals. Top cuts were applied to composites as required. A 1.0m composite length was used for all domains at McIlvenna Bay (respecting the original mean sample length), within the domains <0.5m end length samples were distributed equally. Implicit modelling was used to dynamically generate wireframes using the mineralized intercepts as defined by the interpretation for each domain on 25m cross sections. In constructing these models, a 0.5% Cu cut-off was used for compositing the intercepts in the interpretation of the CSZ, while the logged geological intervals were used to constrain the intercept lengths for the massive and semi-massive sulphide zones. The $60/t NSR cut-off was derived by Micon based on comparable projects in North America, taking into account provisions for milling, G&A, and direct mining costs (i.e. no development). Density was interpolated into each block using ID0 (moving average) based on specific gravity measurements collected from core samples. The Mineral Resources were classified using the following criteria: Resources were classified as indicated in the core of the Deposit, where the nominal drill hole spacing is 65m or less, and/or where the average distance to the nearest three drill holes is 70m or less. The classification reflects not only the drill spacing, but the confidence level in the continuity of the grade and the geometry of the Deposit. Resources classified as inferred were defined by blocks which were estimated with less stringent requirements within search ellipses defined for each domain to a maximum distance of 175m in both the massive and semi-massive sulphide and stockwork bodies. In Micons opinion, the audited Mineral Resources are classified in a manner that is consistent with NI43-101 regulations and guidelines. Mineral resources do not have demonstrated economic viability. In Micons opinion, there are currently no relevant factors or issues that effect the 2019 Resource Estimate, however, there is no guarantee that the Deposit will be placed into production. Quality Assurance and Quality Control For drilling conducted by Foran and its consultants since 2011, an independent QA/QC protocol, consisting of blanks, standards, and duplicates introduced into the sample stream for each batch of samples processed by the laboratory and the results of the assaying of the QA/QC material included in each batch are tracked to ensure the integrity of the assay data. Sample analysis was performed by TSL Laboratories Ltd. (TSL) in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. TSL is a CAN-P-1579, CAN-P-4E (ISO/IEC 17025:2005) accredited laboratory and independent of Foran. Micon reviewed the QA/QC reports from these programs and noted that there were no issues that arose which would affect confidence with the assay data. Micon considers the sampling method appropriate for the deposit type, adequate security measures were maintained, and samples should be representative of the mineralization. Prior to Micon initiating its audit of resource estimation, Foran completed a program of validation and verification of the historic drill hole database which was included in this resource estimate. This work included: re-surveying the locations of historic drill hole collars on the ground, downhole directional surveys of as many historic drill holes as possible utilizing a Gyro tool to verify downhole survey data, re-building of the historic assay database from original assay certificates, additional sampling of gaps in mineralized zones (shouldering) where required to better represent the mineralizing system and a re-interpretation of the geology and ore zones in the Deposit. About Foran Mining Foran is a copper-zinc exploration and development company with projects located along the Flin Flon Greenstone Belt. The McIlvenna Bay Project, Forans flagship asset located within the Hanson Lake District, sits just 65 kilometres from Flin Flon, Manitoba and is part of the world class Flin Flon Greenstone belt that extends from Snow Lake, Manitoba, through Flin Flon to Forans ground in eastern Saskatchewan, a distance of over 225 kilometres. McIlvenna Bay is the largest undeveloped VMS deposit in the region. This world class Metallogenic Belt is host to 29 past and present producing mines, including Hudbay Minerals Inc.s 777 and Lalor operations. The Company recently completed a large resource definition and infill drilling program in preparation for producing a feasibility study on the McIlvenna Bay Deposit. On December 4, 2017, Foran announced the execution of a Technical Services Agreement with Glencore Canada Corporation (Glencore). Glencore has agreed to provide technical expertise and advice in order to advance the McIlvenna Bay Deposit to feasibility in exchange for an off-take agreement on the metals and minerals produced from the Deposit. William Lewis, P.Geo. of Micon and a Qualified Person within the meaning of NI43-101, has reviewed and approved the 2019 Resource Estimate information in this release. Mr. Roger March, P. Geo., Vice President Exploration for Foran, is the Qualified Person for all technical information in this news release, excluding the 2019 Resource Estimate. Mr. March has reviewed and approved the technical information in this release. Foran trades on the TSX.V under the symbol FOM. For Additional Information Please Contact Foran Mining Corporation: Patrick Soares President & CEO 409 Granville Street, Suite 904 Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6C 1T2 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of this release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking information which is not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, Forans objectives, goals or future plans, statements regarding the Technical Services Agreement and, if a feasibility study will suggest an economically viable project, estimation of mineral resources, exploration results, and potential mineralization. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, work performed under the Technical Services Agreement related to preparation of a feasibility study, the failure of such study to suggest an economically viable project, failure to convert estimated mineral resources to reserves, capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates, the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals, political risks, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, changes in equity markets, inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in the development of projects and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, and those risks set out in Forans public documents filed on SEDAR. Although Foran believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Foran disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. Nearly 11 years ago, on 14 August 2008, the Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) of the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced the preliminary examination of the situation in Georgia. The matter referred to the international armed conflict in Georgias breakaway region, South Ossetia, in what some commentators have named the first European war of the 21st century. The region had been under the control of pro-Russian separatists since the early 1990s. Ongoing tensions and periodic armed clashes between the Georgian army and separatist forces escalated during July to early August 2008 with a series of explosions targeting, among others, both Georgian and separatist military and political leaders in South Ossetia. A fresh outbreak of hostilities between the Georgian forces and the separatists led to Russian military intervention on the side of the latter. After a week of fighting Georgian troops were forced to retreat as Russian Federation took control of localities in South Ossetia and extended control over a 20 km buffer zone established within parts of Georgian territory. During the conflict, hundreds of people were killed, and the parties involved were accused of using disproportionate force that endangered civilians. Human rights groups reported that ethnic Georgians living in South Ossetia were deliberately pushed out of their homes by a campaign of terror that included scores of murders and around 27,000 have been unable to return since. Georgian forces were also accused of attacking Russian troops who had been deployed in the region as peacekeepers under an earlier peace agreement with the separatists. An investigation opened in sensitive circumstances After more than 7 years of preliminary examination, on 27 January 2016, a Pre-Trial Chamber of the ICC authorized Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda to open an investigation. According to the Chambers decision, investigation focuses on crimes against humanity of murder, forcible transfer of population, and persecution, and war crimes, including attacks against the civilian population, wilful killing, intentionally directing attacks against peacekeepers, destruction of property, and pillaging allegedly committed in the context of the conflict in Georgia between July 1 and October 10, 2008. The investigation was opened during a particularly turbulent period for the ICC, when it was heavily criticized for being an inefficient, neo-colonial, Western institution targeting only African states. At the time, several states had been threatening to withdraw from the Courts jurisdiction and were lobbying the African Union to adopt a strategy for collective withdrawal. In these circumstances, opening an investigation outside Africa could enable the ICC to reinvigorate its original image of a court for all people, dedicated to end impunity worldwide. However, one thing that was evident for the observers from the beginning of the process was that the ICC was not ready for this investigation. A court unprepared In Georgia, the Court was stepping into the new region with a purpose to investigate crimes committed during an international armed conflict involving a permanent member of the UN Security Council. The ICC was unfamiliar to the Georgian and Russian contexts. Most of the Court officials involved with the situation did not know much about the local and regional history, culture and general state of affairs. Some of them considered French to be the official language of Georgia, as it was the case in half of the previous states they have been dealing with. More importantly, the Court came without a strategy and vision on how to handle the specific challenges of Georgias situation. Despite civil society warnings, the OTPs cooperation advisers initially assumed that Russia would cooperate with the ICC. This assumption was disregarded only at the end of the first year of investigation when Russia withdrew its signature from the Rome Statute. Throughout the first year there was very little activity from the OTP on the ground. In fact, Georgia seemed to be the last thing on the ICCs mind. In February 2017 Prosecutor Bensouda stated that so far her Office had been dealing with technical matters and that more specific steps would follow soon. To help the Court comprehend the local context and increase effectiveness of its activities, Georgias civil society recommended opening a field office in the country. This office was also anticipated to provide public information and conduct outreach activities amongst the affected communities and the general population to raise awareness about the ICC. The poor start of the ICC field office Since 2008, the conflict remains one of the most discussed issues in Georgia. This is the topic that drives internal politics of the country, as well as relationships with its neighbours and the outside world. Despite the importance of the issue, neither the victims communities nor the public had much information about the ICC and its proceedings. While proficient in the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights, local lawyers had no experience of dealing with the ICC. A proper understanding of the Court required vigorous public information and outreach activities. Recommended reading Georgians want answers from the ICC After several months of active advocacy, in October 2017 the ICCs Registrar visited Georgia and announced the opening of the field office. The Registrar stressed his readiness to listen, learn and build cooperation as the Court reported on its official twitter account. He highlighted that continued engagement with civil society was key to help raise awareness about the ICC in Georgia. He further reiterated that the opening of the field office would ensure better lines of communications between the Court and all relevant actors in Georgia. This gave hope to many that after two years of delay the Court was getting on a right track. Soon after the Registrars visit, the head of the field office was appointed. The Court, however, sent a foreign diplomat to this position, who spoke neither Georgian nor Ossetian. The selected candidate turned out to have no knowledge of the ICC itself, so that additional time and resources were required to familiarize him with the Court. For almost a year, the field office was vastly under-resourced, composed of only the head of the office and a temporary officer from headquarters. Despite the shortcomings, the office managed, through the help of the local civil society, to conduct several outreach meetings with small parts of the affected communities. However, communication with local media was limited to a bare minimum. Political manipulation Georgian political leaders took advantage of the lack of information from the ICC about the ongoing process and began to politicize the investigation. In the context of the last years highly contested presidential elections, they traded accusations about who was responsible for the 2008 conflict and about improperly influencing the ICCs investigation. The accusations sparked intense public discussions about the ICC so that throughout last November the ICC investigation was the most popular topic on TV, radio, and social media in Georgia. Everyone in the country was talking about the ICC, including former and current government officials, opposition parties and, importantly, former and current army generals. The debate revealed that the public does not know the details of the ICC process not even basic facts, such as what is the scope of the investigation. People also mix up the ICC investigation with two separate proceedings, one initiated at the European Court of Human Rights and another at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) by Georgia against the Russian Federation in 2008. The ICJ was particularly confusing to the public as it is also located in The Hague, and no outreach has been conducted to explain the difference between the two courts. As a result, Georgians often think that there is an inter-state claim being discussed at the ICC. Positive signals There is a clear need for effective public information and outreach activities that can help to fill in the informational vacuum and minimize misinterpretations of the process. The Court cannot fulfil this task alone. It needs to continue listening, learning and strengthening its local partnerships to succeed. Lately, there have been some positive developments in this regard. Early May, representatives of different organs and sections of the ICC, including the OTP, the Public Information and Outreach Section, the Victims Participation and Reparations Section, and the Trust Fund for Victims visited Georgia. They met the local civil society, arranged information sessions with the affected communities in various victims settlements, gave interviews to journalists, participated in TV programmes, conducted trainings for local lawyers on victims participation, and met with other relevant actors on the ground. These are positive signals. The role of the Trust Fund Throughout the last decade, many victims passed away. Thousands of displaced people are living in dire conditions, and civilians across the administrative border line are living in fear due to regular kidnappings and deterioration of the security situation. In these circumstances, the Trust Funds early engagement is particularly important as most people do not anticipate the investigation to move to trial stage due to the non-cooperation of the Russian Federation. This feeling was amplified after the ICC Pre-Trial Chambers recent decision rejecting the OTPs request to open an investigation into the situation in Afghanistan. In the eyes of sceptics, this decision has confirmed the suspicion that the Court will not be able to pursue perpetrators from powerful states. The Trust Funds assistance mandate allows earlier engagement with victims even in the absence of a decision on guilt. Physical and psychological rehabilitation and material support, such as offering access to income generation and training opportunities, is what the victims need most. As such, the Trust Funds announcement in last September of initiating an assessment of the victims needs, to be followed by specific assistance projects, gave many victims a hope that the process could still be meaningful for them. The period of 2019-2021 will be particularly interesting to evaluate the process. This is the fourth year of the investigation and not much is known about its whereabouts. It is important to see whether the OTPs approach will be to bring cases against low-level suspects. This is the approach that the Prosecutor has suggested in her new strategic plan for 2019-2021. One should also keep in mind that due to Russias non-cooperation arrest warrants against any individual of South Ossetian and Russian ethnicity will most likely not be executed. A second factor to consider will be the scope of the cases and whether they fully represent the victimisation. It is now time for the ICC to strengthen partnerships and have honest discussions and self-reflection about the lessons learned and to find joint solutions in the best interests of victims and justice. Schools are increasingly turning to online-only credit recovery courses to help students who have fallen behind in their regular classes graduate on time. The good news: These courses do seem to help students graduate on time and even enroll in college. The not-so-great news? These students dont seem to be learning as much as their peers in regular, face-to-face classes. Thats the conclusion of a new working paper released this month, and an article published earlier this year in the American Educational Research Journal. The researchersfrom Vanderbilt University and the University of Wisconsindid a longitudinal study of an unnamed large urban school district in the Midwest, which started offering online course taking opportunities in 2010, generally to help students who had fallen behind catch up. By the 2016-17 school year, 40 percent of seniors had taken at least one course through the online system. Researchers examined the data from the online programs vendor and the districts student outcome data. Whats more, they conducted more than 300 observations of student and classroom use of the credit recovery software and more than 30 interviews with instructors and district staff. In a nutshell: Their preliminary analysis found that theres a positive association between online course-taking and graduation. In fact, students who took the online courses were about 13 percent more likely to graduate than similar students who didnt take the courses. And those who participated in credit recovery were more likely to enroll in college, with estimated increases in two-and-four-year college-going of about 2.5 percent. But there was a negative association between taking online courses, primarily for credit recovery, and performance on districtwide standardized tests, the researchers found. And the more online classes a student took, the worse they scored. Classroom observations also showed a mix of promising practicesand obvious trouble spots. Weve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly, said Carolyn J. Heinrich, a professor of public policy, education, and economics at Vanderbilt University, and one of the authors of both the journal article and the working paper. There are kids who come in and they are really motivated to get done, we do believe, and weve heard from teachers that some kids wouldnt be in school if they didnt have this option. Thats especially true of pregnant or parenting teens and those just coming of the criminal justice system, she said. But there are others who are just sitting in the labs, not really listening to the online lectures. Students will instead skip to the end-of-course assessments and just google the answers. Some teachers were really blatant and said they didnt think that learning was happening, Heinrich said. The problem? Vendors design many of these credit-recovery tools as blended learning, meaning the teacher is suppposed to play a big role in supporting instruction. But teachers dont always have the time or bandwidth to do that. Heinrich and her team are far from finished exploring credit recovery. They have plans to track labor market and college outcomes for kids who took the online courses. The credit-recovery trend isnt going away anytime soon. Three quarters of U.S. high schools are offering digital instruction to help students who have failed a course make up the credit, stay on track for graduation, and finish their degree, according to the working paper. The findings dont come out of nowhere. Researchers have been puzzling over the fact that national graduation rates are inching up year after year, hitting an all-time high of 84 percent in the 2015-16 school year, at the same time that scores on the National Assessment for Educational Progress are stagnant. And the results are similar to what other researchers have found. Students who took an online Algebra course had lower credit recovery rates, lower scores on an end-of-course algebra assessment, and less confidence in their mathematical skills than students who took a face-to-face credit recovery class, according to a 2016 study published in the Journal of Research on Educational Effectiveness. Whats more, the American Enterprise Institute also examined the issue and found that high-poverty schools were more likely to rely on credit recovery. And districts arent putting out nearly enough information to help assess the quality of those courses. For more information, check out this commentary piece by Nat Malkus, the deputy director of education policy at AEI, and Amy Cummings, a research assistant. Image: Getty Human Rights Watch on Tuesday accused both Egyptian security forces and jihadists of committing war crimes in their confrontation in the restive North Sinai region. While Egyptian military and police forces were responsible for the majority of abuses documented in the report, extremist militants have also committed horrific crimes, the New York-based group said in a 134-page report. Some of the abuses carried out by government forces and the militants, which this report documents, are war crimes, and their widespread and systematic nature could amount to crimes against humanity. HRW compiled the report over two years interviewing more than 50 residents of the Sinai Peninsula, in northeast Egypt, where independent media coverage is effectively banned and a state of emergency has been in force since 2013. In late 2017, North Sinai was the scene of the deadliest attack in Egypts modern history when militants killed more than 300 worshippers at a mosque, without any group claiming responsibility. Islamist militants have kidnapped and tortured scores of residents and also attacked security forces. Security forces have likewise targeted Sinai residents arresting thousands and forcibly disappearing dozens, according to the HRW report. Children as young as 12 have been detained in routine sweeps eventually being jailed in secret prisons. Alongside the report, a video was released showing footage of air strikes on residents homes and extrajudicial killings of suspected jihadists by security forces. Why all of this? Should we carry weapons and work with the militants or work with the army or live like victims? Everyone is preying on us, said a North Sinai resident interviewed for the report. HRW called on the United States to halt all military assistance to Egypt until gross violations are fully investigated. Egypt has for years been fighting a hardened insurgency in North Sinai, which escalated following the 2013 military ouster of Islamist president Mohamed Morsi. Since then, hundreds of police officers and soldiers have been killed in militant attacks. In February 2018, the army launched a nationwide operation against Islamic extremists, focused on the North Sinai. Some 650 militants and around 45 soldiers have been killed since the start of the offensive, according to separate statements by the armed forces. EAGLE POINT, Ore. -- Southern Oregonians are coming together to honor our nation's fallen heroes. Many cities across the region have held ceremonies to honor and commemorate U.S. service members who died while on active duty. The Eagle Point National Cemetery held its annual ceremony Monday. It kicked off with a performance of the National Anthem by Fogline's Jon Martin and an F-15 Eagle fighter jet flyover. Sen. Ron Wyden, (D) Oregon, and Rep. Greg Walden, (R) Hood River, served as this year's keynote speakers. Sen. Wyden has been to his fair share of ceremonies in Eagle Point. "Eagle Point always gets the right point, which is that our soldiers come first and there's a real lesson in terms of how this community stands up for our fallen heroes and our soldiers," Sen. Wyden said. Monday's ceremony also had performances by Jon Martin of Fogline and the Southern Oregon Scottish Bagpipe band. Wilderville resident Tonia Peterson attended the ceremony to honor her late husband and father, both who are buried at the Eagle Point National Cemetery. Peterson said she brought her daughter and two grandsons with her. "I think it's important to have kids be exposed to things like this, I hope they carry it on with their families as they go, and that they'll find the need to do this on occasion," Peterson said. MERLIN, Ore. A baby river otter rescued in Southern Oregon is now settling in at the Oregon Zoo in Portland, according to Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center. On May 14, officers from Oregon State Police (OSP) brought in the female North American river otter pup to Wildlife images after someone found the little creature near a construction site in Gold Beach. The officers said that they had searched for the pup's mother, but to no avail. The pup, known to Wildlife Images as "Patient 19-277," was found to be about six weeks old and in fairly good health yet her prospects seemed dire. Baby otters can be difficult to rehabilitate for release usually requires other otters of a similar age. Wildlife Images said that it checked but was unable to find any other facilities in Oregon with otter pups. Rehabilitating otters successfully takes many factors into account. To prepare an animal for release we want to make sure that it will be successful in the wild; the last thing any rehabber wants to do is send an ill-equipped animal out to fend for itself. In some circumstances the best and most humane answer is to place that animal in human care, said Cory Alvis-Allen, Animal Care and Education Team Leader at Wildlife Images. Ultimately, Wildlife Images said that state wildlife authorities decided rehab and release would likely be unsuccessful for Patient 19-277. That's where Oregon Zoo came in. Oregon Zoo already had a resident river otter named Tilly, and had just received a male otter pup only slightly younger than Patient 19-277. On Friday, the two pups met at Oregon Zoo. Our preference for them would have been rehab and release, said Amy Cutting, who oversees the Oregon Zoos Great Northwest area. However, wildlife officials said that was not possible so were happy we could give them a second chance. We have a good track record with orphaned otters. Our adult otter, Tilly, was also rescued as a pup, and shes helped raise orphans as well. Ranchers-Cattlemen Action Legal Fund United Stockgrowers of America, through its attorneys, filed documents in the federal district court in Montana this past week asking that its motion to declare the beef checkoff practices in 15 states unconstitutional be granted. Those states are: Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Vermont and Wisconsin. The documents contend that in each of the 15 states, the state beef councils are private corporations that have been keeping half of all the mandatory beef checkoff assessments collected within their states to fund their private speech. The group is challenging this practice on the grounds that the First Amendment prohibits the government from compelling cattle producers and other citizens to subsidize private speech. KEARNEY The University of Nebraska at Kearneys new LaVonne Kopecky Plambeck Early Childhood Education Center will be a significant upgrade compared to the current Child Development Center. Theres no question about that. Its a dramatic shift facilities-wise, said University of Nebraska architect Alan Wedige, who has his own unique way of describing the improvement. It will be like going from Kitty Hawk to the Starship Enterprise. Wedige calls the $7.8 million building under construction on UNKs University Village development a progressive, forward-looking project that represents the future of early education. It will be a different type of operation that many people have probably never seen before, he said. The Early Childhood Education Center, which is scheduled to open in September, was designed specifically to meet childrens educational and developmental needs while providing top-notch training for future educators and promoting collaboration among UNKs academic departments. It replaces the Child Development Center, a dated space inside the 64-year-old Otto Olsen industrial arts building with no room to expand. OMAHA - A 28-year-old Omaha man is accused of spanking a 2-year-old girl so hard that she suffered multiple internal injuries. Tasheem Battles has been charged with intentional child abuse resulting in serious bodily injury. If convicted, he faces up to 50 years in prison. Omaha police officers were called to the Nebraska Medical Center on April 24 after a 2-year-old girl had been examined by doctors. Her mother and Battles, who was the mother's boyfriend, told police that the girl had complained of stomach pain the night before but did not voice a potential cause. Doctors said the girl suffered bruising to her stomach, a cut to her spleen and injuries to her pancreas and liver, according to an affidavit. Officers followed up with the couple five days later. Battles told police he may have caused the injuries to the girl when he spanked her the night before. He said he bent the girl over his knee and hit her in the bathroom. Battles said he was "frustrated and spanked her with more force than he meant to," the affidavit said. An hour later, the girl said her stomach hurt. The president claims he wont work with Democrats on legislation unless and until Congress abdicates its responsibilities to oversee the executive branch. After storming out of a scheduled White House meeting about infrastructure with Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, President Donald Trump declared all legislative work dead until Democrats drop their oversight activities. "You cant investigate and legislate simultaneously it just doesnt work that way," he tweeted later. Oh? Bill Clinton brokered several bipartisan bills with a Republican Congress despite years of investigation that concluded in impeachment. George W. Bush got some big things done despite an investigation into the outing of CIA operative Valerie Plame. Barack Obama navigated delicate budget and debt-ceiling negotiations during probes of ATF gun-running, IRS targeting and deaths in Benghazi. During this legislative session, the governor failed to budge from his inadequate support for lowering property taxes. In the face of 30 percent to 40 percent drops in farm commodity prices, he joins the president in abandoning farmers during tariff wars that shattered a major market. Other countries now have that market. If similar changes occurred for Nebraskas other manufacturers, the governor would demand immediate action. Remember that farmers and ranchers are manufacturers of food from the ground up. To maintain viability of Nebraskas food production system, major property tax reductions are needed. Why cant we defer new business incentives and instead work out new property tax details for existing businesses? Our governor knows there must be a tax shift to provide meaningful property tax relief, but remained stubbornly inflexible throughout the 2019 Legislature, despite the variety of alternatives the Revenue Committee worked through this session. This action deserves support of the entire Legislature. Somers officials said the fire study undertaken by Wisconsin Policy Forum on behalf of Somers, Bristol and Paris did not produce any viable ways the three departments could benefit from sharing services. My reaction is we chose the wrong communities to look at partnerships with, trustee Karl Ostby said, adding it does not make sense geographically or economically to share services or consolidate fire and rescue service with Paris or Bristol Village Board members said the study would have been more useful if it looked at shared services with the Pleasant Prairie or South Shore fire departments. I always try to say every study is a good study; there is some information you can find that you didnt know, or it gives you another way of looking at something, trustee Gregg Sinnen said. Having said that, I think this was a very basic study. I dont personally believe some of the numbers. I sadly say, receive and file. The 46-page report, for which Somers contributed $10,000, was produced to help local officials make data-driven decisions as they consider options to meet future increased service demands resulting from new residential and commercial development and increased traffic on I-94. It provides eight shared-service and consolidation scenarios, most of which come with increased cost for fire and EMS services. Under one cost-saving scenario, Somers and Bristol would jointly provide EMS service in Paris. Paris would retain its paid-on-call fire department, members of which could provide first response. This would result in a net savings of $164,420 that could be split somewhat evenly by the three departments, according to the study. To me, it really highlighted how we are on a different model than Bristol and Paris, Ostby said. We have more full-time staff. I get the sense, as much as I dont like it, the reality of it is we are moving to more of a full-time staff. Fire Chief Carson Wilkinson said it was interesting to see that, even though Somers has more full-time firefighters, the cost per capita for fire service in Somers is lower than in Paris. Trustee Dave Geertsen said the report can be used by administration as a catalyst for further exploration of the pros and cons associated with moving to a full-time department and to prepare a plan for the future. Ostby suggested administration reach out to Pleasant Prairie regarding several development-related issues, including fire protection, to see what worked well there and what they would have done differently. Paris officials are expected to discuss the fire study at the Town Board meeting today. Bristol officials do not yet have a date to discuss the report, which does point out that the Bristol fire station is in closer proximity to some areas of Pleasant Prairie than the station in Pleasant Prairie. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 In contrast to the continuous questions and updates on Foxconn to the north, theres Haribo to the south. Quietly back in the news, the worlds leading manufacturer of fruit gummi and licorice products is planning to build a manufacturing facility as expected in Pleasant Prairie. The Village Board last week approved the initial phase of the Haribo of America development that will begin construction this fall in the Prairie Highlands Corporate Park. Jean Werbie-Harris, community development director, said construction of a warehouse is expected to be completed by next fall and the manufacturing facility finished by the fall of 2021. The new facility is expected to employ 450 workers and would produce or store as many as 132,000 pounds of the gummi candies annually. The full rollout of the campus will include other retail and promotional operations, daycare and fitness centers, a museum and a heliport. Details for those plans were not yet included in the submission to Pleasant Prairie. At the Plan Commission meeting earlier this month, Mike Pollocoff, a Pleasant Prairie board member on the commission, said Haribo represents an excellent development in the growing and business-friendly village. Were looking forward to the next phase of this construction, and Pleasant Prairies very pleased you chose us here, said Mike Serpe, Plan Commission chairman and Village Board member. I guarantee you wont regret that decision. Haribo, the German manufacturer known for its Goldbears gummi bears, is moving to where demand of its product is great, and its plans have been steady moving forward. Last November, Rick LaBerge, chief operating officers of Haribo of America, told the crowd at FaB (Food and Beverage) Wisconsins annual meeting: Were excited to be working so closely with the people of Wisconsin as we make plans to build our first-ever U.S. factory in Pleasant Prairie, he told the 400 attendees. Im so happy to be here to represent Haribo of America and to hear about the incredible initiatives FaB is leading to promote the growth of the food and beverage industry in Wisconsin. Katie Waller, vice president of marketing for Haribo of America, said at the meeting, Haribo showed up so well, our support of the local community was clear, and it was a proud moment for us. Globally, family-owned Haribo employs nearly 7,000 associates and operates 15 production sites in 10 countries. Pleasant Prairie stands to gain a top employer. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 735 Shares Share I recently wrote an article giving 3 reasons why any patient may not have liked their doctor. They included the physician being visibly in a hurry, appearing to brush off concerns, or giving a general sense of not caring. While no doctor deliberately sets out to do any of these things, complaints like these are all too common, unfortunately. The degree to which the practice of good medicine is essentially also the practice of good communication, is vastly undertaught and underappreciated. Its a social profession where you need to have interpersonal and people skills. Everybody, in any profession, can learn to improve their skills and constantly be on a journey to enhance them. This isnt just important for the sake of being successful in ones career. Its actually for the intrinsic satisfaction of any professional as well. Take a look around you and bet your bottom dollar the best communicators are frequently the happiest in their jobs too. On that note, if were talking about physicians, here are 3 reasons why your patient may just have loved you: 1. You listened This is such a simple thing, but I would advise any physician to just listen more than they talk. Studies show that doctors interrupt their patients only several seconds into them talking. Time is limited, and doctors need to focus but there is an art to be being a calm listener in any circumstance. Always remember: if speaking is silver, then listening is gold. Especially for doctors. 2. Your demeanor and body language radiated compassion A patient usually seeks the help of a doctor at a low point in their lives. Thats easy for a physician to forget during a typical busy and hectic day. Before entering a room and interacting with any patient, every doctor should take 2 to 3 deep breaths, reset, and tell themselves the following: 1. Its a privilege to be a doctor; 2. the patient needs my help; 3. I can exhibit a caring attitude and really make a positive difference to this patients day. 3. You remembered the little things The master communicators remember the little details and leave a lasting impression on people they interact with. Physicians who are amazing communicators will remember something their patient said about their child, sick parent, or where they went on vacation and ask about it. This can take all of 10 seconds to do and is very much remembered and appreciated. Its the same trait anybody who is a confident, successful conversationalist will have: A genuine interest in the other person. We have very high standards in health care and ensure physicians reach a certain level of competency before they are allowed to practice medicine. It goes without saying that having a solid knowledge base and being clinically sound, are the most fundamental part of being a good doctor. But thats not what patients and families typically appreciate the most unless we are talking about a specialist type of surgery that only a handful of physicians can perform. Nor does this mean that medicine is a popularity contest it isnt. Working on being a great communicator and understanding what other human beings want and respond to is something every doctor should always be doing. Suneel Dhand is an internal medicine physician, author, and an independent health care experience and communication consultant. He is co-founder, DocsDox. Image credit: Shutterstock.com JUNCTION CITY, Ore. -- Veterans and their families gathered at Rest Lawn Cemetery in Junction City Monday to remember Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action. The Commander for the Sons of the American Legion, Robert Gambetti, said it's an honor and privilege to join together every Memorial Day with men and women who have served. "I've got relatives who were in the Korean war and never came back. My brother was in Korea. You know there are 6,000 people that are still in Korea somewhere," said Gambetti. 400 veterans are buried on the grounds and this Memorial Day; American legion post 61 took the time to remember those men and women who were unable to return home. Commander of the post, Fred Jamieson, said it's not about remembering their sacrifice once or twice a year, but every day. "It makes my heart pitter and patter (sic) when I come and see this. It's my job - it's part of me to come and so this. I enjoy it," said Jamieson. Cynthia Beal manages the cemetery and says she keeps their memory alive, through research and learning about the fallen soldiers. "One of the things about the cemetery that I love so much is that every cemetery is unique because no one can be buried in more than one place. So when you think about it you're looking at the footprint of a community," said Beal. Those in attendance said that they will be right here next year honoring those who have given so much for our freedom. SPRINGFIELD, Ore. -- A suspect in an armed robbery that sent two people to the hospital in Springfield on Monday was arrested five hours later following a rollover crash, police said. Frank Vasquez, 37, of Bakersfield, California, faces three counts each of first-degree robbery and fourth-degree assault, as well as charges of first-degree burglary and unlawful use of a weapon. RELATED: Victims 'pistol-whipped' during assault and robbery in Springfield Police said just before 3 p.m., a Hispanic man and a white man entered a home near the intersection of 54th Street and A Street, assaulted the people inside, robbed them and took off. During the robbery, the subjects pointed guns at the residents, demanding money and drugs. Police said Vasquez hit one of the victims in the face with the gun and threatened to kill her. He also pointed the gun at a neighbor and attempted to fire, but the gun did not go off, police said. About five hours later, Eugene police responded to a rollover wreck at Howard Avenue and River Road involving the same vehicle Vasquez was said to have driven off in a white Toyota Camry with California plates. The driver was identified as Vasquez, and he was arrested. The white man remains missing, and the investigation is ongoing. If you have information, contact Springfield police at 541-726-3721. EUGENE, Ore. -- The City of Eugene is asking your opinion about a first-of-its-kind payroll tax that could raise tens of millions of dollars for more police officers and public safety. RELATED: Proposed payroll tax gets mixed reviews in Eugene If the proposed tax is approved, about 65 percent of the funding would go to police. "We can always use a little more help," said Eugene resident Fredrick Smith. "There's been a lot more activity going on in the city I've noticed. I live downtown, predominantly." Of the rest of the funding, 10 percent would to go to fire and emergency services,15 percent would go to court services, and 10 percent would go to homeless services. "Taxes are usually not a happy thing to bring up but anything thats going into help the community to feel a little bit safer, I'm always for it," Smith said. If you make $14 an hour, it would add up to about $10 a month. For someone who makes $20 an hour, it would be $14. If you want to voice your opinion on the matter, the meeting is set for 7:30 Tuesday night at the Downtown Library. If you can't make it to the public hearing, you can give your input through the city's website. MYRTLE CREEK, Ore. A vehicle that drove into a ditch above the Springbrook Water Treatment Plant is to blame for the diesel-related water contamination in Myrtle Creek, officials say. A Department of Environmental Quality spokesperson said they have cleaned up the spill and are monitoring the site. The initial report came in just after 9 a.m. on Monday and city staff tracked the source to the plant, which was shut down about an hour later. The city has been providing three bottles of water per resident at Myrtle Creek City Hall, 207 NW Pleasant Street. Residents need to show valid proof of residency with a drivers license or utility bill. Results from a second round of tests are expected by 7 p.m. Tuesday. Depending on the results, the water advisory could be lifted. Officials said even if test results show acceptably low levels of diesel, there could still be a lingering taste or odor in the water system. The Myrtle Creek Fire Department, Umpqua Research, Oregon State Fire Marshal Roseburg Team 1 Hazmat and Oregon Health Authority have assisted the citys response. Pop band, Kodaline will pay tribute to a very special Kilkenny teenager at their concert this Saturday at St Anne's Park in Raheny in Dublin. Ciara Lawlor (17), died suddenly during a Kodaline concert from a heart condition in July 2016. The band performed at her funeral and have dedicated a song, Angel, in her memory. Ciara's parents John and Eimear and her brothers Jack and Barry have been invited to the upcoming concert and are hoping to attend. "It will be very poignant and hugely emotional for me but it will be very special as well, said Ciara's Mum, Eimear. "One of the band members, Mark Prendergast texted me while they were touring in Korea to invite us to the gig in St Annes on June 1. He said they were going to sing Angel and say a few words. Mark asked for videos and I think they plan to do a 30-second video. It is truly amazing, especially as we never knew the guys before, and coming to the funeral and writing the song were amazing gestures alone, but to remember her in front of 15,000 people is a such a tribute to our daughter. People move on with their lives, but to lose a child is something that will never leave a person, and to have Ciara remembered like this is something we will be ever grateful to the band," added Eimear. An investigation into the care of Ciara Lawlor at Crumlin Children's Hospital has taken place and an inquest into her death is due to place later this year. Meanwhile a group of kind-hearted students have fundraised for the Ciara Memorial Fund and the monies will be donated to CRY, Cardiac Risk in the Young. The charity supports families affected by sudden death through counselling and screening family members for sudden death. Seven Transition Year students at Waterpark College in Waterford took part in "Build a Bank, a nationwide challenge by the A.I.B. The challenge was to raise awareness of the lack of cardiac services in the south east. Fulfilling its potential - A long list of ideas being proposed will enhance the use of the Black River. Kingstree Town Manager Richard Treme said whatever happens will take a long-term commitment. Photo by Michaele Duke Brijesh Patel * Money managers cut net longs in gold in week to May 21 - CFTC * Gold may retest resistance at $1,290 - analyst (Updates prices) By Brijesh Patel May 27 (Reuters) - Gold hit a more than one-week peak on Monday as trade tensions between the United States and China lifted appetite for assets seen as a haven from risk, while weak U.S. economic data boosted hopes for a rate cut from the Federal Reserve. Spot gold inched up half a percent to $1,285.34 per ounce as of 2:03 p.m. EDT (1803 GMT). The metal touched $1,287.32 earlier in the session, its highest level since May 17. U.S. gold futures were 0.1% higher at $1,284.40 an ounce. The U.S. markets were closed for a public holiday. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday he was not yet ready to make a deal with China, hinting that the worlds biggest economies are far from a trade agreement. Some of the comments made by Trump over the trade talks with China were not overly optimistic, ING analyst Warren Patterson said. The continued uncertainty around trade is helping to support prices ... that uncertainty is increasing demand for safe-haven assets. China on Friday denounced U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for fabricating rumours after he said the chief executive of Chinas Huawei Technologies Co Ltd was lying about his companys ties to the Beijing government. Weak manufacturing activity data coupled with a dip in new orders for U.S.-made capital goods last week ignited worries that the trade conflict may hurt the worlds largest economy, lifting investor expectations for a U.S. rate cut. Over the weekend, Trump reiterated a complaint that the Feds policies had kept U.S. economic growth from reaching its full potential. Investors also eyed European Parliament elections, where a two-party grand coalition of the conservative European Peoples Party (EPP) and the Socialists (S&D) lost their combined majority after a surge in support for liberals, the Greens and eurosceptic nationalists. The rise of volatility triggered by geopolitics benefited the yellow metal, Alfonso Esparza, senior market analyst at OANDA, said in a note. If the UK political game of thrones and U.S.-China trade keep uncertainty levels high, gold could once again jump above $1,300. Gold may retest resistance at $1,290 an ounce, a break above which could lead to a gain to the next resistance at $1,295, Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao said. Meanwhile, hedge funds and money managers sharply reduced their net long positions in COMEX gold in the week to May 21, the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) said on Friday. Among other precious metals, silver dipped 0.1% to $14.55 per ounce. Platinum rose 0.8% to $808.75 an ounce and palladium was up 0.1% at $1,336.51. (Reporting by Brijesh Patel and Asha Sistla in Bengaluru Editing by Jan Harvey and Matthew Lewis) (Kitco News) - As the trade dispute between the U.S. and China heats up, it has an impact on crypto miners who are making considerable adjustments to strategies and operations. This weekend Bitcoin price hit a new record for 2019, reaching as high as $8,905 and now trading around $8,724. The current bull market is reported to be bringing profitability back to the mining market. It is worth noting, China is the epicenter of global cryptocurrency mining and where the most computing power is used to mint new Bitcoin than any other country. Bitmain Technologies, headquartered in Beijing is the leading Chinese manufacturer of specialized mining chips called application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). David Williams, chief technologist at BlockRules says: The 2019 bull market is bringing profitability back to mining. China, with mining companies like Bitmain, has a big lead in the mining industry worldwide with their use of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) Williams explains, China certainly has a lead over the U.S that is unlikely to be affected by the U.S. and China trade dispute. The only way to break Chinese dominance in the mining industry requires moving cryptocurrencies from old mainstays, such as Bitcoin, to more modern implementations, like Ethereum, which will shift the mining paradigm away from ASICs. says Williams. Tariffs Push Investors To Procure Used Equipment Matt DSouza, co-founder of Blockware Solutions and a consultant at KPMG based in Chicago, explains tariffs coupled with the Bitcoin bear market have been a significant factor causing U.S. based miners and the Chinese manufacturers to make considerable adjustments to their strategies and operations. It [tariffs] has created a robust peer to peer market for used s9s in the U.S. as the tariff is avoided - saving miners 25% on their investment. The tariff has pushed many investors to procure used s9's rather than invest in the newest equipment out of China due to a quicker earn back, says DSouza. It is reported the Antminer s9 the most powerful miner available on the market. The US-China Tariffs Impact DSouza explains even without the tariff the used s9 has a lower earn back but it would also have a shorter useful life cycle as they are used equipment, but DSouza believes the further delayed earn back created by the tariff is material enough to influence a miners decision to stick with old, used hardware. So U.S. Miners have altered their strategy by avoiding the tariff by focusing on procuring used, older equipment from facilities and retail that over invested at the top and are presently puking the lows. Manufacturers are making investments to avoid the tariff so they do not lose the U.S. market which is experiencing the most growth in Bitcoin mining, says DSouza. According to Blockware Solutions Malaysia seems to be an alternative facility to import equipment to the U.S. Bitmain has invested and built out a facility in Malaysia. As a result, large orders from the U.S. come from the Malaysia facility so the tariff is avoided but this is a new initiative so it is very supply constrained. Bitmain has been the leader in providing this offering. We have purchased 100's of next-generation machines through the Malaysia facility to avoid the tariff, which balances the math making an investment in next-generation equipment optimal. Yes, mining has picked up dramatically as if we are in a bull market, adds DSouza. For now, Blockware Solutions remains optimistic that crypto miners will prosper as the market recovers. Gavin Evans writes: Eugenie Sages use of the Overseas Investment Act to constrain gold mining at Waihi marks a new low in an increasingly bitter, oppose-at-all costs planning environment. The Green Party minister against the advice of officials and her coalition colleagues rejected OceanaGolds bid to buy farm land for a new tailings dam. She saw no economic benefit in extending the life of the mine and the jobs of its 360 staff by up to nine years. Hey theyre just jobs that provide income for 3660 families. He says there was no logical, evidence-based construct on which it could have been made. That makes it worse even than the governments ill-conceived ban on new offshore gas exploration, which is expected to prolong industrial coal use in New Zealand. It looked like the reasoning of someone who had decided an outcome, and then put words around it to allow that outcome to still pop-out, Baker said of Sages decision. Its a gross abuse of power. Another disturbing aspect of Sages decision also being displayed by protestors aiming to stop the New Zealand Minerals Forum in Dunedin this week is a tendency to blanket her arguments against mining with the language of climate change. Yes, more mining will mean more emissions, but only in the same way that trucking more rock, or more logs, or more milk, means more emissions. South Africa: Motorists urged to drive safely This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. South African mountaineer Saray Khumalo hopes that her conquering of Mount Everest will inspire Africans especially young women - to reach for their goals in life. The dream of any African child is valid and it is possible to achieve, said Khumalo, who received a hero's welcome at the OR Tambo International Airport this morning. ... See more Washington, D.C. Growth mindsets arent just for students. It helps for teachers to have a growth mindset about their students mindsets, too. A teachers classroom approach shapes whether their students believe they are born with fixed academic skills or can grow them through practice and experience, according to Carol Dweck, the Stanford University researcher who pioneered the study of academic mindsets. Mindsets create a psychological world with very different meanings, Dweck said in a keynote at the annual Association of Psychological Science conference this weekend. Those with a fixed mindset tend to think that if you have to work hard at something, youre not good at it. ... When you have a growth mindset, youre not fearful about your abilities all the time; setbacks promote challenge-seeking and greater learning. For example, she pointed to one high school chemistry teacher who told the class, Within a week, I know who will get an A and who will get a C. Further, I will know the difference between a real A and a fake A'a fake A is one you had to work for. This kind of approach can make students hesitant in class or prompt them to disengage completely, particularly if they already fear they will end up fulfilling negative stereotypes about their gender or race. She pointed to one new study by researchers at the University of Indiana-Bloomington, which analyzed the academic mindsets of 150 college instructors in science, technology, engineering, and math, and tracked the achievement of some 15,000 of their students. In surveys after the classes, the students in classes taught by fixed-mindset and growth-mindset instructors reported their classes required about the same amount of time. But those students taught by fixed-mindset instructors also reported feeling less motivated to do their work than the students of growth-mindset teachers. In particular, the students of fixed-mindset teachers said their classes had not emphasized their own learning and development as much as their peers did in growth-mindset classes. Not only were racial achievement gaps more than twice as large among students taught by instructors who believed STEM talent was fixed, but students of all ethnicities performed better in the classes taught by instructors with growth mindsets. Even after controlling for other teacher characteristics, like teaching experience, tenure, gender, or race, instructors academic mindsets predicted their students motivation and achievement. Dweck said she uses a few basic class assignments to get students to question their own academic mindsets. She asks them to: Identify contexts that tend to trigger a fixed mindset. Students and teachers alike can believe skills are more or less fixed depending on the context; someone who feels math skills are innate may believe reading ability can be developed. Dweck said that teachers can help students recognize when and why they feel differently about different subjects or skills. Students and teachers alike can believe skills are more or less fixed depending on the context; someone who feels math skills are innate may believe reading ability can be developed. Dweck said that teachers can help students recognize when and why they feel differently about different subjects or skills. Plan and do something outrageously growth mindset such as tackling a challenging project in an area outside their comfort zone. such as tackling a challenging project in an area outside their comfort zone. Try to change another students mindset. Dweck described activities in which each student around the class said one area they were struggling with; other students often jumped in with both support and suggestions, such as study groups. Dweck described activities in which each student around the class said one area they were struggling with; other students often jumped in with both support and suggestions, such as study groups. Write a letter from yourself, 20 years in the future, identifying the most important thing you have learned. Students, she said, torture themselves all the time with upward social comparison. Theres always going to be someone better than you; so what? You need this set of skills, so do it. The focus of assignments like these, Dweck said, is to focus students on underlying reasons they are learning. I tell students, you are quitting your old job and starting your new job. Your old job was getting as many As as possible. Your new job is to use all the resources ... to become the person you want to be, and to contribute something important to the world. Kendallville, IN (46755) Today Morning fog, then cloudy in the afternoon. Temps nearly steady in the mid 30s. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Cloudy. Snow showers developing after midnight. Some mixed winter precipitation possible. Low 28F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 50%. Auburn, IN (46706) Today Cloudy. Areas of patchy fog. Temps nearly steady in the mid to upper 30s. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A light mix of wintry precipitation in the evening. Then mainly snow showers overnight. Low 29F. Winds light and variable. Chance of precip 50%. Snow and ice accumulations less than one inch. (OMAHA, Neb.) The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Tuesday that releases from Gavins Point will be increasing by 5,000 cubic feet per second on Tuesday, and then an additional 5,000 cubic feet per second on Wednesday. The release increases will bring the total release from Gavins Point to 70,000 cubic feet per second by Wednesday. The increases are a result of heavy rainfall happening in Nebraska, South Dakota, and North Dakota, which as been 200 to 600 percent of normal for this time of year, according to the Army Corps. The Army Corps says that effects from releases on the lower Missouri River diminishes at locations further downstream due to the large uncontrolled drainage area and the travel time from Gavins Point Dam. It takes two to three days for water releases from Gavins Point to reach Omaha and four to five days to reach Kansas City. Releases are expected to remain higher than average into the fall. "We will continue to monitor conditions along the length of the Missouri River and make adjustment as necessary," John Remus, the chief of the Missouri River Basin Water Management Division, said in a statement. (ST. JOSEPH, Mo.) The National Weather Service is predicting the Missouri River to reach major flood stage by Thursday in St. Joseph. The updated forecast from Tuesday morning brings the river to 27.4 feet early Thursday afternoon. Major flood stage begins at 27 feet. The river began rising once again late Monday and was at 24.4 feet as of 12:30 p.m. Tuesday. On Tuesday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced that releases from Gavins Point Dam would reach 70,000 cubic feet per second by Wednesday. For more river information, click here. (ST. JOSEPH, Mo) Those against a new abortion ban recently signed into law chose to make their voices heard Sunday. Protestors lined the streets of N. Belt Highway and Frederick Ave., to speaking out against Missouri's new abortion law. "A lot of women and men also dont like whats going on right now," Hope Edwards, the head organizer said. Many passer byes showed their support of the protest with every honk of the horn. "Really awesome to hear all the support from everybody," Edwards said. Last Friday Missouri Governor Mike Parson signed House Bill 126 into law, banning abortions after 8 weeks. While pro-life advocates argue the new law protects life and stops abortions, those who disagree say it will only lead to more unsafe procedures. "If the goal is to have fewer abortions then we legalize abortion," Kelly Lacina Protester said. "Were not looking at pro-life issues were looking at only pro-birth issues," Lacina added. Protestors also felt the new legislation is unconstitutional "This is an infringement upon our liberties and our rights," Andrea Cole, a protester said. "[It's also an] infringement on our privacy." While not everyone agreed with their viewpoint. They say they hope those who do to get involved, get educated and take action. "If you dont like whats going on go out there and change it," Edwards said. Details about the producers, cast, and background stories related to the film "Fox Hunt" were revealed at an official launch in Beijing on May 24. Produced by Shanghai Film Group Corporation (SFG), the film is based on true stories of Operation Fox Hunt, a global Chinese anti-corruption initiative managed by the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) since 2014, which aims to track down and repatriate fugitives accused of corruption. "Fox Hunt" stands out as the first film in China to depict on the big screen the process of tackling cross-border criminal proceedings and extraditing fugitives under the Interpol Red Notices. Throughout its three-year preparation, "Fox Hunt" found tremendous support from different organs of the MPS for conveying the successful experiences and mechanisms of international police cooperation, as well as joint efforts to tackle cross-border economic crimes. During the launch ceremony, the Operation Fox Hunt Team of MPS, specializing in overseas fugitive affairs, made their public debut in the hopes that the film will raise public awareness about the efforts of the MPS to battle illegal fundraising and combat financial crimes. Speaking at the launch ceremony, Meng Qingfeng, deputy minister of Public Security, said that since Operation Fox Hunt's inception in 2014, over 4,300 Chinese fugitives suspected of committing corruption have been arrested and repatriated from more than 120 countries and regions, with a total 17 billion yuan (about US$2.46 billion) in illegal funds being seized. "It was by no means an easy task to make this film because, for one thing, it is rather important to keep the authenticity of the original law enforcement procedures to the public; and for another, it matters equally that this film shouldn't simply become a publicity campaign for 'perfect' police figures," Meng said. "Thus, different organizations and governmental bodies involved in the production of this film, especially the MPS, were highly responsible to provide support when needed," he added. Regarding support from the MPS for the film industry, "Fox Hunt" is not the first or only case. In September 2016, "Operation Mekong," an action film about drug traffickers in the Golden Triangle of southeast Asia, told the true story of the murder of 14 Chinese crew members in the Triangle area on Oct. 5, 2011, with the help of strong support from the MPS. Similar cases can be found in the film "Operation Red Sea," released in February 2018, and others. When asked why he chose this subject, producer Ren Zhonglun said, "Fox Hunt" is our way of honoring the heroes who have been dedicated to China's anti-corruption campaign. With film stars like Tony Leung Chiu-wai and Duan Yihong's joining the cast, this film should create good memories of the young generation in China." As this year marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, the film is expected to play a significant role in raising awareness so as to prevent economic crimes and demonstrate the fairness and justice of Chinese society. China will continually open up its manufacturing sector despite the rise of protectionism elsewhere in the world, a senior official noted in an interview with Xinhua. Wang Zhijun, vice minister of industry and information technology, said that foreign investors had been allowed to access the manufacturing of aircraft, ships and other crucial equipment according to the negative lists for foreign investment revised in 2018. The timetable for the opening-up of the auto industry has been set, while restrictions on foreign investment in smelting of rare earth and other mineral resources have been cancelled, and ordinary manufacturing has been totally opened up, he said. Wang said that China would fully implement the opening-up policy concerning aircraft, ships, automobiles, telecoms and other sectors, revise and shorten negative lists for pilot free trade zones as well as the whole country, and broaden the areas in which foreign investment is encouraged. The Chinese government will also continue to cut red tape, delegate power and improve its services to business and create a market environment that guarantees fair competition and equal treatment for Chinese and foreign enterprises, he said. U.S. farm groups are urging the federal government to resolve trade disputes soon, saying they want open markets to export their products rather than short-term aid. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Thursday announced a trade aid package that would provide up to 16 billion U.S. dollars to farmers who have been hit hard by the U.S.-initiated trade war with other major trading partners. "While farmers themselves will tell you they'd rather have trade than aid, without the trade that has been possible, then they're going to need some support," said U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue. The White House has slapped high tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars' worth of imports, provoking retaliatory levies on U.S. agricultural products such as soybeans, which have curtailed U.S. agricultural exports and pushed commodity prices down even further. "Family farmers and ranchers have been grappling with low commodity prices and excess production for many years now, and the trade war with China and other major trading partners has compounded both problems," said Roger Johnson, president of the National Farmers Union, which advocates on behalf of nearly 200,000 American farm families and their communities. Johnson said he believes this trade aid package is "only a short-term fix" for a very long-term problem, as it fails to provide "predictable, consistent and adequate relief" across American agriculture. "Farmers rely on markets to make a living. Our ongoing trade wars have destroyed our reputation as a reliable supplier and have left family farmers with swelling grain stores and empty pockets," Johnson said Thursday in a statement. "The very least we can do is provide our country's struggling food producers with the certainty of a longer-term plan that also addresses the persistent and pernicious problem of oversupply," he said. Zippy Duvall, president of the American Farm Bureau Federation, also stressed that the United States needs a long-term strategy that offers farmers "fair and open access to markets." "The real, long-term solution to our challenges in agriculture is good outcomes to current negotiations with China, Japan and the European Union, as well as congressional approval of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement," Duvall said Thursday in a statement. In a letter to U.S. President Donald Trump on May 14, Duvall called on the U.S. government to swiftly resolve trade disputes with China, as some farmers are having a critical decision to make. "I am hearing anecdotal reports of farmers, particularly those who are dealing with planting delays due to weather, deciding not to plant a crop this year because there's just no market for it," Duvall wrote in the letter. "In 2018, U.S. agricultural exports to China declined 10 billion dollars -- about a 50 percent loss. This is a drastic reversal for what had been a growing market," he noted. According to the USDA's weekly Crop Progress report, just 19 percent of the U.S. soybean crop had been planted as of May 19, well behind the 47-percent five-year average. A 36-year-old Nigerian man has been charged with murdering Serdang Hospital nursing sister Siti Kharina Mohd Kamarudin. The accused, Alowonle Oluwajuwon Gilbert from Benin City, Nigeria was charged under Section 302 of the Penal Code. The murder charge was then read to Oluwajuwon by a court interpreter in English in front of Magistrate A. Akhiruddin@Boy Acho. According to the charge, he had committed the murder against Siti Kharina, 41, at Tower 1, Third Avenue Condominium in Cyberjaya, Selangor between May 9 and May 15. The incident was alleged to have taken place between 12.41am until 2.30pm on the aforementioned dates at a condominium unit. Oluwajuwon faces the mandatory death penalty if he is found guity. No plea was recorded from the accused who was unrepresented. Deputy public prosecutor Nasharina Nazlan prosecuted. The court fixed July 31 for mention, pending the submission of several documents. Among the documents that need to be submitted to court are the chemist report, the DNA report, the forensic report on seized close-circuit television recordings and a report on a mobile phone seized during the case. The same court later released a 35-year-old Nigerian woman and a 38-year-old Pakistani man who had been arrested on suspicion of involvement in the murder earlier. However, both were ordered to surrender their passports until the end of the court case. Siti Kharina was reported missing on May 8 and was found dead with slash wounds on her chest, neck and head by the owner of her rented condominium unit in Cyberjaya on May 15. Follow Us on Facebook @LadunLiadi; Instagram @LadunLiadi; Twitter @LadunLiadi; Youtube @LadunLiadiTV for updates The German Volkswagen Group China, Spanish SEAT and the Chinese auto manufacturer JAC, which together form the joint venture JAC Volkswagen, reached an agreement for SEAT's market entry in China on Monday. Volkswagen AG CEO and chairman of the board of directors at SEAT, Herbert Diess, said: "With the market entry of SEAT, Volkswagen Group will be able to broaden the market development efforts into new customer bases." Already, China is playing a central role in the global transformation of the German Volkswagen Group and its "decarbonization program", according to Volkswagen. "Today, China is the benchmark country for electric vehicles. We aim to be a part of this ecosystem in order to exchange knowledge and make progress in achieving global mobility that is more sustainable," said Luca de Meo, CEO of SEAT. Volkswagen has set out to expand the range of electrified vehicles this year and is expecting more than half of its 22 million electronic cars sold worldwide to be produced in China by 2028. "In the world's largest market for electric mobility, the close cooperation between SEAT and JAC will allow us to create synergies, which will significantly increase our market coverage," Volkswagen CEO Diess added. According to Volkswagen, the goal is to deliver around 1.5 million electrified vehicles, most of them pure e-cars, to customers by 2025. "At the moment, especially plug-in hybrids are in demand but with time, more and more cars will be purely electric," a Volkswagen spokesperson told Xinhua on Monday. In addition to a joint venture owned R&D center in the Anhui province's capital Hefei which is currently under construction and is expected to open in 2021, JAC and SEAT are also planning to develop their own platform for smaller electric cars. In a smart city partnership with the city of Hefei, Volkswagen Group China, Mobility Asia and JAC are developing autonomous driving, including self-driving vehicles (robotaxis) and autonomous fleet management but also new ride railing services or car sharing. "With this cooperation, we demonstrate that we are working hard to take a leading role in the field of smart mobility solutions in the Chinese market as well," said Stephan Woellenstein, CEO of Volkswagen Group China. The Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia is thought to have splashed out $450million (354m) on what could be a fake Leonardo da Vinci painting. In November 2017 The Salvator Mundi was sold as one of fewer than 20 known works of the Italian master. It was later revealed that the buyer was Prince Badr bin Abdullah al Saud, a minor Saudi royal thought to be acting on behalf of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Ben Lewis, an art historian who has written a book about the painting, suggested the royal suddenly upped his offer from $370million to $400million because he thought the Qatari royal family was outbidding him. It would later come to light that Chinese billionaire Liu Yiqian was actually the one providing competition. Worse was to come for the royal family. Since it was included in a major da Vinci exhibition at Londons National Gallery in 2011, questions have been raised about the paintings origins. The damage left by over-painting and restoration attempts meant the painting was hard to analyse. Rumours began to swirl about its provenance in the months before the auction, leading the two billionaire bidders to raise the price to a historical high in the race to get their hands on a genuine da Vinci. Many art historians remained unconvinced however, arguing the lack of warping around the orb in Christs hand was uncharacteristic of an artist of da Vincis callibre. When the Louvre Abu Dhabi cancelled plans to display the painting just two weeks before the exhibition was due to start, many took that as an admission that the painting was not the work of the master, but his pupil. Now its owners have been dealt another blow. Curators at the Louvre in Paris have privately decided to label the painting from the workshop of da Vinci. The move would massively devalue the worlds most expensive painting, with experts suggesting it would fetch about $1.5 million (1.18m) if auctioned again. Mr Lewis told a crowd at the Hay Festival: My inside sources at the Louvre, various sources, tell me that not many Louvre curators think this is an autograph [real] Leonardo da Vinci and if they did exhibit it, they really want to exhibit it as workshop. So it is very unlikely it will be shown because the owner of this picture cannot possibly lend it to the Louvre Paris and see it exhibited as Leonardo workshop its value will go down to somewhere north of $1.5m. If a picture cannot show its face, that is really damning for the art world. It is almost like it has become the Saudis latest political prisoner. The painting is said to be currently in a storage facility in Switzerland. Follow Us on Facebook @LadunLiadi; Instagram @LadunLiadi; Twitter @LadunLiadi; Youtube @LadunLiadiTV for updates The German baby food manufacturer Hipp is looking to get rid of plastic in its packaging by 2025, partner at the company, Stefan Hipp, told the German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) on Monday. To achieve this goal, the market leader for baby food in Germany would use more glass and develop recyclable packaging from natural materials such as wood and grass, Hipp told FAZ. "Plastic packaging is convenient for consumers and we have also met this consumer demand so far," said Hipp, emphasizing that "now we are called upon to find alternatives." The family business in the small Upper Bavarian town of Pfaffenhofen was experiencing increasing difficulties in its search for organic raw materials that are not contaminated with chemicals, however. "More and more agricultural land is polluted, from which Hipp can no longer obtain raw materials," said Hipp. There had already been cases in which the German baby food manufacturer had refused deliveries "because traces of glyphosate were found during our investigations," Hipp said. The demand for biologically pure raw materials was constantly increasing but supply was lagging behind, Hipp added. The German baby food manufacture is supplied by 8,000 organic farmers, most of them in Germany, according to Hipp's website. Retired Marine Corps Gen. and former Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis is releasing a book this summer, but it wont discuss his rocky relationship with President Trump. Random House will publish Call Sign Chaos: Learning to Lead in July. The book will cover Mattis decades-long career in the Marine Corps, including his tenures as commander of the United States Joint Forces Command and the United States Central Command, the Associated Press reports. The book wont be a tell-all about the nearly two years he spent as Secretary of Defense, however. Im old-fashioned: I dont write about sitting Presidents, so those looking for a tell-all will be disappointed, Mattis said in a statement to the AP. I want to pass on the lessons and experiences that prepared me for challenges I could not anticipate, not take up the hot political rhetoric of our day. Advertisement The publishers description on the books Amazon page describes Call Sign Chaos as the account of Jim Mattis storied career, from wide-ranging leadership roles in three wars to ultimately commanding a quarter of a million troops across the Middle East. Along the way, Mattis recounts his foundational experiences as a leader, extracting the lessons he has learned about the nature of warfighting and peacemaking, the importance of allies, and the strategic dilemmas and short-sighted thinking now facing our nation, the description reads. He makes it clear why America must return to a strategic footing so as not to continue winning battles but fighting inconclusive wars. Trump nominated Mattis for the Defense secretary position shortly after his election in 2016. Mattis was confirmed by the Senate by a 98-1 vote, with only Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, a Democrat from New York, voting against him. Mattis and Trump had a contentious relationship throughout the retired generals tenure in the Cabinet. Mattis resigned last December, and his letter to Trump announcing his retirement was widely seen as a rebuke to the president. While the U.S. remains the indispensable nation in the free world, we cannot protect our interests or serve that role effectively without maintaining strong alliances and showing respect to those allies, Mattis wrote in the letter. Because you have the right to have a Secretary of Defense whose views are better aligned with yours on these and other subjects, I believe it is right for me to step down from my position. Call Sign Chaos is co-written with Bing West, a Marine Corps veteran who was an assistant Defense secretary under President Reagan. West is the author of several books, including No True Glory: A Frontline Account of the Battle for Fallujah and The Wrong War: Grit, Strategy, and the Way Out of Afghanistan. Random House will publish Call Sign Chaos on July 16. UC San Francisco announced Tuesday that it is dropping plans for an expanded affiliation with Dignity Health, a Catholic hospital chain that places flagrantly discriminatory restrictions on abortions, transgender care and other services. The decision was announced in a letter to the UCSF community and concerned citizens signed by Sam Hawgood, the USCF chancellor, and Mark Laret, CEO of UCSF Health, who had been pushing hard for the plan in presentations to the UC regents. In a separate statement, the administration said it wouldnt bring any proposals regarding Dignity Health before the regents at upcoming meetings in June and July. It said the affiliation plan had been still under discussion and had not been finalized before the decision was made to abandon it. UCSF said that previous arrangements with Dignity hospitals in the Bay Area, which dealt with clinical programs on a limited scale, would continue. Weve heard a growing chorus of concern from multiple stakeholders...in light of the passage of very severe anti-abortion legislation in many states. Vanessa Jacoby, UCSF obstetrics faculty Advertisement In an emailed statement, Dignity Health said, We have heard and understand the concerns raised by UCSF faculty and others relating to the proposed partnership between Dignity Health and UCSF Health, and agree that we cannot move forward with the partnership as originally planned. The decision reflects concerns that had been raised among UCSF medical professionals and advocates for womens healthcare and LGBTQ advocates about the proposed affiliation. The deal would have tightened UCSFs relationship with Dignitys four Bay Area hospitals Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz, Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, and St. Francis Memorial and St. Marys Medical Center in San Francisco. As weve been reporting, those concerns stemmed from Dignitys adherence to Catholic Church dictates regarding womens reproductive healthcare and transgender services, among others. St. Marys and Dominican are designated as Catholic hospitals subject to the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Service, known as ERDs. The ERDs, a creation of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, ban direct abortions, in vitro fertilization, contraception, assisted suicide and gender-affirming care such as hormone treatments and surgeries for transgender patients. They treat life as beginning from the moment of conception. (Direct abortion is not a medical but a Catholic term, signifying the termination of a pregnancy by destroying a developing fetus anytime after conception.) They vest the ultimate judgments about whether to allow those services, even in emergencies, to local bishops rather than doctors. Sequoia and St. Francis are designated as non-Catholic hospitals within Dignity Health. They are subject to the churchs less restrictive statement of common values, which bars direct abortions, physician-assisted suicide and fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization the only way, as the petition states, that gay and lesbian couples can conceive a biological child but allow some other services banned by the ERDs. The proposed affiliation with the Catholic healthcare system threatened to place UCSF on the wrong side of the movement for womens reproductive health and transgender rightsespecially as those those rights face attack across the nation. Weve heard a growing chorus of concern from multiple stakeholders over the last several weeks, Vanessa Jacoby, an associate OB-GYN professor at UCSF and a leading opponent of the proposal, particularly in light of the passage of very severe anti-abortion legislation in many states and the stripping down of transgender anti-discrimination protections by the [Trump] administration. Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Missouri and Ohio, among other states, have enacted strict limits on abortion in recent weeks. The administration last week proposed rolling back Obama-era rules that forbid discrimination based on gender identity. The change would allow healthcare providers to refuse to provide gender reassignment surgery and might allow insurers to refuse to cover the procedure. What may have been theoretical in peoples minds has become a reality in terms of encroachments on womens reproductive health and protections for transgender people, Jacoby told me. What remains unclear from the statements by UCSF and Dignity is whether the would-be partners will try to refashion their plan and present it to the regents in a new form. We will work to find a new path forward, UCSF said. Dignitys statement, which qualified Tuesdays action as the end of the proposal as originally planned, said further that going forward we will explore ways to work together. UCSF administrators had insisted that faculty members would face no constraints on their treatment of patients at Dignity hospitals. We were not considering a merger or any arrangement in which Dignity Health would have had a role at UCSFs facilities, UCSF said Tuesday. But doubts about the affiliation applied to UCSF activities at facilities run by Dignity, not UCSF. As Tuesdays statement acknowledged, the specific terms of the proposed arrangement were never finalized and no details were ever made public. As a result, it is impossible to assess how doctors ability to counsel and treat their patients without interference would have been safeguarded. In any event, UCSF officials acknowledged that patients requiring services barred by Catholic rules might have to be transferred out of the Dignity hospitals to receive them. UCSF personnel might even have to resort to subterfuge to provide some services to patients, they acknowledged. Any nonmedical interference with doctors judgments, critics of the plan argued, would increase health hazards for UCSF patients. The affiliation proposal split the faculty at UCSF, the premier medical teaching institution of the University of California. UCSF administrators asserted that the affiliation was necessary to alleviate a capacity shortage at the universitys medical center, which says it had to turn away 855 patient transfers last year for lack of available beds. More than 1,500 faculty members, alumni, students and others signed a petition urging the administration to drop the plan, however. Several faculty members raised questions about the arrangement to the regents health services committee in April and December and at a meeting of the full regents board in early May. The proposed affiliation underscored issues associated with the expanding influence exercised over U.S. healthcare by Catholic hospitals, which today account for one out of six of all hospital beds. In some communities including some in California alternatives to Catholic hospitals are geographically inaccessible. That can place legal medical procedures such as abortions and sterilizations effectively out of reach for many patients. The plans critics argued that the affiliation, whatever its terms, placed the university in the unacceptable position of accepting a discriminatory model in its practice of medicine. The arrangement would enhance the churchs ability to promulgate its nonmedical strictures on care, Jacoby warned. No amount of interaction between UCSF and Dignity Health would ever influence the Catholic institutions to relax their restrictions, Jacoby said. They never compromise their values, she said. Theyre not allowed to change. Theyll never provide contraceptives. Theyll never do an abortion to our standard of care. Keep up to date with Michael Hiltzik. Follow @hiltzikm on Twitter, see his Facebook page, or email michael.hiltzik@latimes.com. Return to Michael Hiltziks blog. Chinas powerful planning body has threatened to use rare-earth element exports as leverage in the trade war with the U.S., in a sign of increasing tensions between the two powers. Rare earths, a group of 17 metals with a variety of high-tech applications, are used in magnets, instrument displays and other components that go into everything from iPhones to missiles to electric vehicles and LED lighting. They are the one raw material of which China dominates global supply. A tightening in Chinese export quotas a decade ago brought the limited supply of the little-known minerals to the attention of the international security community as a potential strategic threat. Relations between China and the U.S. have deteriorated sharply since the countries failed to strike an anticipated trade deal in early May. Advertisement Last week, shortly after President Trump blacklisted the Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei, Chinas President Xi Jinping visited a rare earths magnets firm in Ganzhou, in southeastern Jiangxi province. The move has been interpreted as the prelude to retaliation. The National Development and Reform Commission, which oversees Chinas economic policy shifts, highlighted the threat of an export cutoff in a bulletin. Will rare earths become Chinas counter-weapon against the U.S.s unwarranted suppression? What I can tell you is that if anyone wants to use products made from rare earth to curb the development of China, then the people of the revolutionary soviet base and the whole Chinese people will not be happy, the notice read. However, the commission stopped short of declaring any specific policies. China currently exports very few rare earths directly to the U.S. Intermediate products containing rare-earth metals go through a long production chain, mostly in China and Japan. Washington has identified the exports as a vulnerability and exempted the material from its tariffs. Rare earths capture the attention of security strategists but in practice would be difficult to wield as a weapon. China first imposed export quotas on them more than a decade ago but dropped the quotas in 2015 after losing a case at the World Trade Organization. It is not clear how it would regulate trade in intermediate or downstream products. The problem for China is that any new restrictions would cause damage to its recently developed industrial supply chains, which are dependent on foreign customers in the U.S., Europe and Japan. Any restriction would reinforce the notion that China was a risky source of supply. Three state-owned mining firms have wrestled for control over the rich deposits around Ganzhou, in south-central China. Ganzhou stands at the edge of the Jinggangshan range, where the Chinese communists formed a revolutionary base before retreating on the Long March in 1934-35. Xis visit to the area last week symbolized self-reliance and determination in the face of the trade war, in the spirit of the Long March. The Financial Times Limited 2019. All Rights Reserved. FT and Financial Times are trademarks of the Financial Times Ltd. Not to be redistributed, copied or modified in any way. MacKenzie Bezos has committed to giving away at least half of the $37-billion settlement she will receive in her upcoming divorce from Amazon.com Inc. founder Jeff Bezos. She is one of 19 new signatories to the Giving Pledge who have promised to donate more than 50% of their wealth to philanthropic or charitable causes, either during their lifetimes or in their wills, the organization of the same name said Tuesday. It was founded by Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett in 2010 and now has 204 participants from 23 countries. I have a disproportionate amount of money to share, said MacKenzie Bezos, 49. My approach to philanthropy will continue to be thoughtful. It will take time and effort and care. But I wont wait. And I will keep at it until the safe is empty. Other new signatories include hedge fund titan Paul Tudor Jones, venture capitalist Chris Sacca and WhatsApp co-founder Brian Acton. David Harding, the British billionaire who founded Winton Capital, also signed. Advertisement Fulfilling the requirements of the pledge can be tricky in a world where the wealthiest are accruing more riches than ever. Since 2010, Buffett has given away Berkshire Hathaway Inc. shares worth more than $30 billion at the time of the donations. Still, his wealth is about 85% greater than at the time of his 2010 letter, thanks to Berkshires rising stock price. Jeff Bezos, the worlds richest person, hasnt signed the pledge and has been criticized for his relatively restrained philanthropic efforts to date. In 2017, he tweeted an invitation for suggestions about how he can best use his wealth to help people right now, before announcing a $2-billion commitment to support education and anti-homelessness initiatives in September 2018. He took to Twitter again Tuesday to praise his former spouses decision. MacKenzie is going to be amazing and thoughtful and effective at philanthropy, and Im proud of her. Her letter is so beautiful. Go get em MacKenzie. https://t.co/S2gLLBQyRQ Jeff Bezos (@JeffBezos) May 28, 2019 The pair announced they were divorcing in January. As part of the split, MacKenzie Bezos will receive a 4% stake in Amazon. Jeff Bezos will keep 12% as well as some other assets, including the Washington Post and space-exploration company Blue Origin. Emmanuel Macron has traded plenty of verbal blows with Matteo Salvini on subjects ranging from immigration to public spending to the future of the European Union. The Europhile French president and the nationalist Italian deputy prime minister have finally found common ground, however: the car industry. Both have lent their enthusiastic support to a proposed tie-up between Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Renault. The idea is that this deal will increase the two companies scale and encourage more investment, crucially without hurting jobs. While this all does look very good on paper, theres a real danger that the huge pressure on the auto industry thats brought the French and the Italians together will only intensify over the next few years. That might make the political peace a short one. As weve seen with Renaults alliance with Nissan Motor Co, theres plenty of scope for diplomatic ructions over cross-border carmakers. Advertisement At a time when the industry is bleeding jobs (at least 38,000 over the last six months), its easy to see why government ministers are keen on a proposed tie-up with no planned factory closures, a merger of equals structure, and $5.6 billion of cost savings. Salvini called it a brilliant deal, provided it protected Italian employment, a sentiment quickly echoed by Macrons finance minister Bruno Le Maire. While the latter called for guarantees on French jobs, he accepted that the merger would mechanically halve the French states 15% stake in Renault. Its not every day I agree with Salvini, he told RTL Radio. This should be music to the ears of investors; not just the absence of tensions between Rome and Paris, but also the prospect of less politics reflected in the shrinking French holding. As Airbus SA has shown, multinational manufacturers shares tend to perform much better once states cut their stakes and reduce their meddling to a minimum. Macron, a former investment banker, has promised less interference in the private sector but hasnt delivered much so far. Unhappiness about Parisian industrial maneuvering was one reason why the Japanese toppled Carlos Ghosn from the top of the Nissan-Renault alliance. The Fiat deal at least gives a clear signal that France is comfortable reducing its influence at Renault, giving up its double-voting rights and offering Nissan a seat on the Franco-Italian entitys proposed board. There are reasons to stay cautious, though. This is primarily a defensive deal to help two companies ride out the industry storm (arguably three, if Nissan plays a full part). Fiat is a laggard in electric car investment and has had to seek outside help in driverless technology. It ranked last among 13 companies for both fuel economy and carbon emissions, according to one U.S. survey. Renault has greater scale and was an early advocate for electric cars, but its share price has suffered badly because of the tensions with Nissan and cost pressures, so much so that Bloomberg Intelligence says its core business is valued by the market at zero. Although a merger appears to make financial sense and has cheered investors, it remains a hostage to fortune. UBS analysts estimate that the merger could boost Renaults market cap by up to $10 billion, but investors have so far only lifted its valuation by about $2.2 billion. The same epochal challenges facing the two firms individually driverless vehicles, plateauing car ownership and the death of the combustion engine will face them combined. All point to fewer industrial workers being needed, which is anathema to Italian populists and French mainstream policymakers alike. The companies are in the early stages of shuttle diplomacy, so the real political risks will take time to emerge. Its not certain that both sides can effectively run the company in a 50-50 structure while avoiding Franco-Italian tensions. French trade unions are already grumbling that the merger will favor Italian interests. And even if Nissan might welcome a watering down of French national interest in a combined company, theres no guarantee it will look favorably on a new governance structure at Renault-Fiat, which would still own 43% of the Japanese company unless something changes. If the highly cyclical car market takes another lurch for the worst, expect national interests to come to the fore. As usual. Laurent writes a column for Bloomberg. Homeowners around the world have found Airbnb and other short-term rental services a great way to make extra money. Until the guest from hell arrives. Emily Mastren, 30, and her husband have been using Airbnb to rent out their backyard bungalow in Long Beach since December. It goes for $65 to $99 a night, and the couple have hosted dozens of people over the last half-year. It pays our entire mortgage, Mastren told me. Thats pretty nice. But now Im worried about the safety of my family. Advertisement The booking was made recently by a woman Ill call Sylvia. Thats not her real name, but she has sent Mastren threatening messages and I dont want to make a bad situation worse. Mastren has a 3-week-old daughter at home. Sylvia booked the bungalow on a Thursday morning and arrived that afternoon around 1 p.m. I got a bad feeling as soon as I saw her, Mastren recalled. I could see she was wearing a cheap wig. She was really thin. She was dressed like she was going to a club, around lunchtime on a Thursday. Even so, Mastren welcomed her guest and handed over the keys. Sylvia checked out the next morning but failed to leave the keys in a lockbox, as is customary with Airbnb rentals. Mastren said she spotted Sylvias car parked on the street, where it appeared Sylvia was sleeping. Mastren approached the car, roused Sylvia and informed her that the keys hadnt been returned. She said Sylvia rummaged in a bag, found the keys and handed them over. Suspicious, Mastren said, she played back video taken overnight by the security camera outside her home. She said four different people could be seen visiting the bungalow at roughly 90-minute intervals. I asked Mastren what she thought Sylvia was doing. I think she was prostituting out of my Airbnb, Mastren replied. The cleaning lady arrived Friday afternoon. She texted me, Mastren recalled. She said I better come see this. Mastren said she found cigarette butts throughout the bungalow her listing specifies that a $250 cleaning charge will be applied to smokers. In the bathroom wastebasket was a syringe. There also was a baggie. And an AriZona tea can that had been cut in half and used to heat something up. Mastren took pictures, which she submitted to Airbnb and shared with me. I was furious, she said. I felt violated. Mastren reached out to Sylvia through Airbnb and requested the $250 smoking fee. She noted the syringe and possible drugs in the wastebasket. Sylvia replied with a message accusing Mastren of being ghetto for going through the trash. She said she didnt complain to anyone even though the tires on her car were slashed while she stayed at Mastrens bungalow. She said shed be back to get my things. Mastren responded that the cleaning lady discovered the wastebasket contents as part of routine maintenance. She also pointed out that she saw Sylvias car the next morning and the tires were fine. She said Sylvia left nothing at her house, and if she came by again, Mastren would call the police. Sylvia continued messaging Mastren via Airbnb for several days. She said she hadnt been alone at the bungalow and any drugs werent hers. Ill take drug test, she said. I can prove to u and I will sue u for slander. My lawyer will contact u soon. Subsequent messages said, Your n trouble lady and Thanks 4 free money lady. Ur gonna pay !!$$$$. Mastren posted a review of Sylvia on Airbnb. Do not let this woman stay in your Airbnb, it said. Heroin and syringe found in my trash can by my cleaners!!! Smoked cigarettes inside, per my surveillance had people in and out of my place all night looks like prostitution was happening Save yourself and do not allow her near your home. Mastren also called Airbnb to report the matter. She said a service rep informed her that this would be something for the companys safety department, but the call couldnt be transferred. The rep said Mastren would receive a call back within 24 hours. It took nearly 100 hours for the company to get in touch, Mastren said. Insult to injury, she received an email from Airbnb saying her review of Sylvia was in violation of our content policy. We cannot allow reviews to stand when they contain content that is profane or obscene. As such, it is our responsibility to remove your review. As of this correspondence, it has been taken down. Airbnb didnt have much to say about all this. The reported behavior has no place in our community, a spokesman, who asked not to be identified, told me by email. Weve suspended this guests account while we investigate and are providing our full support to our host. He emphasized that there have been over a half a billion guest arrivals in Airbnb listings to date and negative incidents are incredibly rare. The company also sent me a link to its community standards, which state that Airbnb users should not target others with unwanted behavior and should refrain from endangering or threatening anyone. I found no admonition in the standards about not breaking the law by, say, using someones home as a bordello. This seems like a glaring omission considering there are references online to Airbnb rentals being used as pop-up brothels by prostitutes. You can also find reports of heroin use in Airbnb rentals. The standards do say, though, that you should not commit physical or sexual assault, sexual abuse, sexual harassment, domestic violence, robbery, human trafficking, other acts of violence, or hold anyone against their will. They also specify that members of dangerous organizations, including terrorist, organized criminal and violent racist groups, are not welcome in this community. Airbnb says that in the rare event that any issue should arise, Airbnbs global Customer Service and Trust and Safety teams are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week in 11 different languages to help make things right. Mastrens experience suggests these teams might need to focus a bit more on responsiveness. She observed that it took nearly a week for Airbnb to suspend Sylvias account, and this seems to have occurred only after I started asking questions. Suggestion: Airbnb should encourage all hosts to have keyless-entry systems that can be recoded for each guest. At least this would address the unreturned-keys problem. By the end of last week, Mastren received an email from Airbnb saying that we have reviewed this matter and decided it best for the community that we remove this guest from the platform. Thank you for helping us to keep the community safe. Mastren said Airbnb has paid her the $250 cleaning fee. But shes not sure shell continue using the service. I feel that, as a host, my safety was put in jeopardy for five or six days until they took action, she said. Im not sure its worth it. David Lazarus column runs Tuesdays and Fridays. He also can be seen daily on KTLA-TV Channel 5 and followed on Twitter @Davidlaz. Send your tips or feedback to david.lazarus@latimes.com. Burt Reynolds married his girlfriend of about six years, the actress Loni Anderson, in a quiet, 20-minute ceremony that belied the five media helicopters circling above his Florida ranch and the throng of reporters outside. Ann-Margret and Jim Nabors were among the 65 guests in attendance. The ring was 7 carats, designed by the groom, back before rings that big were being handed out left and right. It was, People magazine reported, all about the couples love and respect for each other. Unfortunately, it was not a sign of things to come. It was a marriage that began in April 1988 and ended when he served her divorce papers five years later then took 22 years for the by-then-resentful couple to sever financial ties completely. Advertisement Reynolds, who died Thursday at age 82, and Anderson, 73, had been a glamorous fixture among the rich and famous since they met in 1981 and started dating in 82, covering magazines, hitting red carpets and painting the town. But once the divorce was set in motion, the glamour quickly turned ugly. Very publicly ugly. They never had sex anymore, he told Good Morning America: Evening Edition, so the decision to divorce her shouldnt have been a surprise. I dont see how she can be in total shock when you have not if your husband has not touched you in the biblical sense in almost three years, he said. How can you be surprised? Burt Reynolds, Life in Pictures 1 / 18 Burt Reynolds as Bo Bandit Darville in 1977s Smokey And The Bandit. (Silver Screen Collection / Getty Images) 2 / 18 Burt Reynolds discusses a scene with director Paul Bogart during New York location shooting of the ABC series Hawk on May 27, 1966. (Joe Caneva / Associzated Press) 3 / 18 Singer Dinah Shore and Burt Reynolds appear together in Los Angeles on Nov. 5, 1971. (Harold Filan / Associated Press) 4 / 18 Burt Reynolds appears in a scene from the 1972 film Deliverance. (Warner Bros. / Warner Bros.) 5 / 18 From left, Ned Beatty, Jon Voight, Ronny Cox, Bill McKinney and Burt Reynolds appear in a scene from John Boormans survivalist drama Deliverance. (Warner Bros ) 6 / 18 Burt Reynolds and Sally Field in Smokey and the Bandit. (Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images) 7 / 18 Burt Reynolds pinches the cheeks of comedian Dom DeLuise during a roast of Reynolds in Atlanta on Dec. 2, 1977. (Steve Helber / Associated Press) 8 / 18 Burt Reynolds polishes his Hollywood Walk of Fame star at its unveiling ceremony in Los Angeles on March 15, 1978. (Associated Press) 9 / 18 Burt Reynolds sits for a photo as he receives an award at UCLA in 1980. (Iris Schneider / Los Angeles Times) 10 / 18 Boogie Nights star Burt Reynolds holds his award for supporting actor in a motion picture at the Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills on Jan. 18, 1998. (Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press) 11 / 18 Burt Reynolds displays his Supporting Actor of the Year Award during the ShoWest Awards ceremony in Las Vegas on March 12, 1998. (Lennox McLendon / Associated Press) 12 / 18 Burt Reynolds fields media questions about the film The Crew at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel on Aug. 20, 2000. (Amy E. Conn / Associated Press) 13 / 18 Burt Reynolds is photographed by The Times on May 13, 2005, as he promotes his role in the film The Longest Yard, a remake of his 1974 film. (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times) 14 / 18 Burt Reynolds joins Adam Sandler in the 2005 remake of The Longest Yard. (Tracy Bennett / Associated Press) 15 / 18 Burt Reynolds at the Wizard World Chicago Comic-Con on Aug. 22, 2015. (Barry Brecheisen / Invision / Associated Press) 16 / 18 Burt Reynolds sits on a 1977 Pontiac Trans-Am at the world premiere of The Bandit during the South by Southwest Film Festival in Austin, Texas, on March 12, 2016. (Jack Plunkett / Invision / Associated Press) 17 / 18 Burt Reynolds poses for a portrait as he promotes the movie The Last Movie Star in Beverly Hills on March 21, 2018. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 18 / 18 Burt Reynolds sits for a portrait as he promotes his role in The Last Movie Star in Beverly Hills on March 21, 2018. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) Burt Reynolds, wisecracking star of Smokey and the Bandit and Deliverance, dies at 82 Reynolds began slamming Anderson shortly after their split. He accused the onetime WKRP in Cincinnati star of cheating on him, even said hed caught her cheating on him. Sure, hed been involved with someone else too, but that was after he had become convinced she was cheating, he said. Sodium pentathol could prove which one of them had cheated first, if only she would take him up on his challenge, hed said. He painted her as an underemployed actress with lousy self-esteem. He accused her of being a bad mom to their son Quinton too. Though the former couple, oddly enough, left divorce court in 1994 hand-in-hand and smiling at the cameras, it hadnt been pretty inside, featuring two days of excruciatingly detailed testimony about Reynolds financial affairs as they hammered out a custody arrangement and child support deal. In testimony Monday, Reynolds said he was having cash flow problems, was in arrears on several loans, was dogged by bad investments and was strapped by heavy alimony and child support obligations, read a Los Angeles Times article from Dec. 7, 1994. So far, Reynolds divorce from Anderson has cost him more than $2 million, and he pays about $47,000 a month in divorce-related expenses, accountant Gregory Young testified. Reynolds told reporters outside the courthouse, Im very happy that we were able to sell papers for a year and a half. Why that doesnt translate into money, I dont know. ... Im glad America is curious about us. Loni Anderson smiles at Burt Reynolds after leaving court in 1994. (Roger W. Vargo / Associated Press) RELATED: Burt Reynolds costars and admirers mourn one of our favorite leading men Anderson waited a bit to talk, writing her autobiography after the divorce was finalized. I said to everybody, Dont get sucked into this, or it will become a circus. Burt wants to make a war let him be in it all by himself. Someday, I will talk, Anderson told SFGate in 1995. Then she unloaded, all the while saying she still didnt understand his motivation for the split. After throwing her out of their house, he humiliated her with his accusations regarding her mothering. She said Reynolds had physically abused her at least a dozen times, something she blamed on alleged drug use. They hadnt talked since their breakup. She said she was concerned about Reynolds erratic behavior and insisted a nanny be present when their son visited his father in Florida. One time, the actor threw a chair at the regular nanny, she alleged, so a substitute took over the trips. Also, as part of their settlement, Reynolds had bought her a house but sometimes failed to pay the $9,000 mortgage on it. And he didnt always pay the $15,000 monthly child support he owed for his son. The lawyers were on it, she said. The next year, Reynolds declared bankruptcy before paying Anderson the full amount she was owed. Lawyers would continue working on the case for years, decades even. Finally, in September 2015 after years that included IRS run-ins, addiction and rehab, auctions of his prized belongings and, yes, a short-lived comeback Reynolds wrote a $154,520 check that put the divorce to bed. I should have known that you dont marry an actress, the actor told People a couple months later. That was a really dumb move on my part. RELATED: Sally Field, plastic surgery and posing nude Burt Reynolds discussed it all with The Times cdz@latimes.com @theCDZ on Twitter and Instagram Celine Sciamma has been on the red carpet at Cannes before. Last year, she stood shoulder to shoulder with Agnes Varda, Cate Blanchett, Ava DuVernay, Kristen Stewart and other women as they marched up the steps of the Palais des Festivals to protest gender inequality in the film industry. Eighty-two women marched in total, representing the number of female directors who had ever had movies selected for the main competition at Cannes (a paltry 4.2%, with 1,866 male-directed pictures making up the rest). This year, that number went up to 86, and Sciamma is now one of them. She won the festivals screenplay prize Saturday night for her glowingly received fourth feature, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, which follows an 18th century French painter named Marianne (Noemie Merlant), who falls in love with her latest subject, Heloise (Adele Haenel). Its an exquisitely beautiful and contemplative chamber drama about the agonies of forbidden desire and the consolations of art, and particularly the mystery of how an artists gaze shapes and is shaped in turn by its subject. Although the story is a fictional one, Marianne stands in for hundreds of female painters who were working in France at the time but whose contributions were never properly recognized. That makes Portrait of a Lady on Fire an especially pointed and resonant choice for the Cannes competition, where female filmmakers have long been underrepresented. Advertisement I realize, as I speak, its so meta, Sciamma says with a chuckle. But its fun. Its part of the joy of this whole thing. Joy seems to come easily to the 40-year-old French writer-director as we sit down to speak on a studio rooftop not far from the Palais. She is basking in the glow of an unusually strong reception, with more good news still to come. Within a few days, the film will leave the Croisette with not only a screenplay award from Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritus jury but also the independently sponsored Queer Palm prize, given annually to an LGBTQ-themed film, and a North American distribution deal. Neon and Hulu are planning a theatrical release and awards campaign later this year. Adele Haenel, left, and Noemie Merlant in the movie Portrait of a Lady on Fire. (Lilies Films/Hold-Up Films/Arte France Cinema) Portrait is a movie of many firsts. Its Sciammas first production starring established actors rather than gifted screen newcomers, and her first period drama. Still, she downplays the logistical challenges of re-creating an aristocratic 18th century household. (The picture was shot in Quiberon, on Brittanys Cote Sauvage, or Wild Coast.) When she talks about the movie a love story layered with ideas about memory, equality and the lasting power of the image a word she keeps using is playful. I really wanted to build the movie around rituals and variations, so that we could be playful with that, she says. I wanted to show how love and desire grow between two people, step by step the rhythms, the breathing, the delays, the frustrations. It took me a while to find the right structure, even though its the Titanic structure, she notes with a laugh. Indeed, Portrait begins with Marianne, a successful artist and teacher, being confronted with a long-buried memento and recalling her passionate brief encounter with Heloise several years ago. The story unfolds from there as an extended flashback set in 1770: We follow Marianne as she is commissioned by a countess (Valeria Golino) to paint a wedding portrait of her daughter, Heloise, who is betrothed to a man from Italy. When Marianne arrives at their castle on the coast of Brittany, she is introduced as a new walking companion for Heloise; for specific reasons, the painting must be done without the subjects knowledge. But that secret is one of many that are gradually brought into the open. When the countess leaves for a few days, Marianne and Heloise are left alone, with only a sympathetic servant girl, Sophie (Luana Bajrami), for company. The two are thus granted some time, however fleeting, to complete the painting, explore their desires and imagine a more liberated future. In its explorations of gender and sexual identity, Portrait of a Lady on Fire grows naturally out of Sciammas previous work. The earlier films, however, were all coming-of-age narratives, starting with her 2007 Cannes-premiered debut feature, Water Lilies, which explored the adolescent frustrations among a team of synchronized swimmers. Adele Haenel in Portrait of a Lady on Fire. (Lilies Films/Hold-Up Films/Arte France Cinema) The directors assurance and ambition have grown with every feature, as borne out by Tomboy (2011), about a 10-year-old girl who passes herself off as a boy, and the particularly fine Girlhood (2014), about an African French teenager living on the outskirts of Paris. Sciamma has also cowritten several other strong French pictures, including Claude Barras My Life as a Zucchini, which earned an animated feature Oscar nomination, and Andre Techines Being 17. With Portrait of a Lady on Fire, she wanted to stay true to the customs and manners of the past but also speak to audiences with a very modern directness. The costumes (designed by Dorothee Guiraud) are beautiful but functional, the elegant mise-en-scene more spare than sumptuous. The sharp, literate script avoids anachronisms, but it has also been stripped of excessive formalities. Mariannes paintings, some of which are shown at various stages of completion, have a realism that feels ahead of their intended late 18th century moment. They are the work of painter Helene Delmaire, who, at 32, is close to the same age as Marianne in the film. The role of the flinty, resilient Heloise was written specifically for Haenel, a rising star whose credits include BPM (Beats Per Minute) and The Unknown Girl, and who earned one of her first credits 12 years ago in Water Lilies. For the similarly tough-minded Marianne, the director cast the lesser-known Merlant, whom she thought would be the ideal counterbalance to Haenel. When Noemie came into the room, I felt there was this beautiful, iconic contrast between the blond [Haenel] and the brunet [Merlant], Sciamma says. But also they were the same age, they were the same height, and they were both very different. There was equality. A love story with equality is how Sciamma describes the end goal of Portrait, although here the notion of equality takes on many meanings. Its apparent in the way the director (working with cinematographer Claire Mathon) often frames her actresses in two-shot, and also the surprising emotional weight she grants the character of Sophie. At a certain point, Heloise stops being merely the object of Mariannes gaze and becomes her collaborator, subverting the usual power dynamic in a way that also has implications for the relationship between a filmmaker and her actors. Some early reviews have hailed the movie as an example of the female gaze at work, a corrective to the dominance of the male gaze. That term was coined decades earlier by film critic Laura Mulvey, but it retains critical currency today in an industry where most movies are made by men and, presumably, for men. Sciamma, however, has a more complex reading of the two gazes and considers her perspective a hybrid of both. She also cautions against the assumption that every movie made by a female filmmaker automatically has a feminine point of view. I grew up in a world where stories and images were made and told by men. So I know this world very well. I am moved by this world, says says. I identify myself with the male gaze, I grew up with the male gaze, Ive been excited by the male gaze. Im a product of that culture. But I also have my experience as a woman, and so I know both worlds. So I guess with females, it should be acknowledged that were more hybrid. We can be anything. Maybe were more free to create. Sciammas filmmaking is of a piece with her activism. She is a founder of 50/50x2020, an organization that advocates for gender parity in the French film industry and that drafted a parity pledge that major festivals including Cannes, Berlin and Venice have all signed. As one of four female directors in competition at Cannes 2019 a higher number than usual, though one that still reflects the industrys underrepresentation of women she considers herself fortunate to be part of a beautiful conversation about the importance of inclusion. Its a lot of pressure, she admits before adding, Theres a responsibility, and Im not complaining for myself, because Im here, you know? justin.chang@latimes.com Rapper Meek Mill is accusing the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas of racism after staff members at the ritzy hotel and casino told him he was trespassing on the property over the weekend. Hes also dismissing the resorts account that the situation was related to a matter of security, not race and said he plans to sue over it. The allegation comes after the recording artist shared a video of the tense encounter on social media Saturday. Footage showed him sitting inside a vehicle as hotel security officials told him he was trespassing and insisted that he and his entourage leave. If you come from our culture you should never step foot in the cosmopolitan hotel they just really racist as hell .... something really has to be done in Las Vegas what they doing to black people! the famed battle rapper tweeted Saturday. By Tuesday, celebrity lawyer Joe Tacopina, who represents the rapper, told The Times that he will be filing a lawsuit this week to address the hotels illegal conduct. Advertisement The assertion that the Cosmopolitan denied Meek because of capacity concerns at Marquee Dayclub is outright false, Tacopina said. In the recorded video, Meek also inquired about getting a meal at one of the hotels restaurants, yet their security team continued to deny Meek and said he would be arrested for trespassing regardless of location in the hotel premises. They telling black rappers they are banned from properties they own without incident ... they just told me I was trespassing and I will be arrested I stepped in that hotel once at a jayz party without incident! Meek Mill (@MeekMill) May 25, 2019 If you come from our culture you should never step foot in the cosmopolitan hotel they just really racist as hell .... something really has to be done in Las Vegas what they doing to black people! Meek Mill (@MeekMill) May 25, 2019 The 32-year-old followed up his Saturday tweets with videos of the incident in which he appeared calm as Cosmopolitan staffers spoke to them. We are a private property, and this time, with the information we have, were refusing to do business with you. We have the right to do that, a staff member told the rapper and his group. When questioned by the entertainer, the staff member proceeded to read off rules, including the Nevada state law against trespassing, and warned the group that they had to leave the premises or face arrest. On Instagram, the Uptown Vibes rapper said the hotel was going to extreme racist levels, and that casinos resorted to tactics to keep the level of blacks down .... but love to take our money!!!! This happens to a lot of black entertainers not just me either!! I felt crazy being put out by these white men for no reason! As Mills encounter lit up social media, the Cosmopolitan issued a statement saying that the situation related to a matter of security, not race. Any reports citing otherwise are false, the Monday statement continued. We pride ourselves on providing an inclusive environment, with zero tolerance for discrimination. Under different circumstances, Meek Mill would be welcomed to the resort, but not at the compromise of his personal safety and the safety of our guests. The hotels Marquee Dayclub was at fire code capacity Saturday and Las Vegas police had been called in earlier that day to manage the growing crowd, the hotel said. The club knew of Mills arrival in advance and told him he wouldnt be let in because of capacity concerns. When he arrived, the staff reiterated to him and his team that access to the venue was not permitted, noting that Mill refused to leave the property and was then informed that any continued attempt would result in trespassing. However, the rapper addressed the hotels version of events on Monday night and rejected its concerns about the pool party. [They] told me I would be arrested just for stepping on their property even if I went to eat on the property not at the pool party doesnt even make sense, he wrote. He then dismissed the hotel and its reasoning, tweeting, I dont care about that casino I bring in millions every time my name mentioned on a Vegas casino event where I am always welcome ... but yall not gone just treat us like [expletive] and act like its normal Put some respect on our race please and thank you. The hotel has not issued another statement. The cosmopolitan issued a statement that it was over capacity at a pool party why I was banned but told me I would be arrested just for stepping on their property even if I went to eat on the property not at the pool party doesnt even make sense Meek Mill (@MeekMill) May 28, 2019 Follow me: @NardineSaad Michelin came out with its Bib Gourmand list on Tuesday. The list, which highlights what the guide calls affordable restaurants, includes 151 restaurants in California, about half of which are in Los Angeles and Orange County. Included on the list this year are Los Angeles favorites for pizza, Sichuan food, tacos and burgers, including Guerrilla Tacos, Pizzeria Mozza, Chengdu Taste and Fathers Office. The Bib Gourmand list was introduced in 1997 and spotlights restaurants that serve high-quality meals which include two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less, according to the Michelin website. Advertisement Michelin announced earlier this year that it would bring back its star rating system in California. The California Guide and its much-coveted starred ratings is scheduled to come out Monday. You can view the full Bib Gourmand list of Los Angeles and Orange County restaurants below: Aburiya Raku Adana Restaurant Amor y Tacos Ayara Thai Cuisine Badmaash Barans 2239 Bowery Bungalow Broken Spanish Burritos La Palma Cassia Chengdu Impression Chengdu Taste Chuans Church & State ConiSeafood Dai Ho Dha Rae Oak Dong Lai Shun Eveleigh Factory Kitchen Fathers Office Grand Harbor Guerrilla Tacos Holbox Il Pastaio Jaffa Jitlada Jon & Vinnys Katsu-ya Kismet La Cevicheria Langers LaoXi Noodle House Longo Seafood Lunasia Maccheroni Republic Majordomo Manhattan Beach Post Mariscos Jalisco Meals by Genet Meizhou Dongpo Mercado Los Angeles Mian Okiboru Ramen Papilles Petit Trois Pine & Crane Pizzana Pizzeria Mozza Preux & Proper Punta Cabras *closed Rocios Mexican Kitchen Rosaline Rossoblu Salazar Sea Harbour Shanghai No. 1 Sichuan Impression Sixth & Mill Son of a Gun Sqirl Thai Thing Tsubaki ORANGE COUNTY Gabbis Mexican Kitchen Garlic & Chives Hiro Nori Ramen LSXO Mix Mix Kitchen & Bar jenn.harris@latimes.com Instagram: @Jenn_Harris_ By Maya Kaul, a research and policy assistant at the Learning Policy Institute All instruction is culturally responsive. The question is: To which culture is it currently oriented?" Gloria Ladson-Billings At the heart of the shift toward more student-centered models of learning and assessment is an understanding that learning is socially embedded and that the broader communities that students exist within matter to their learning. Emerging findings from brain science reveal that students cultural contexts, in particular, are fundamental to their learning. These findings are not new. They are built upon a rich history of research highlighting how central culturally responsive pedagogy is to providing all students with a high-quality education. One powerful means of bringing students culture into the classroom is through culturally relevant performance assessments. Performance assessments center students identity and experiences by asking them to show what they know and can do through multidisciplinary projects, presentations of their learning in front of a panel, and reflections on their educational trajectory. At their core, such assessments provide a critical space for students to reflect on and share their personal stories and their identities as learners. Lessons From Hawaii: Defining Cultural Relevance Representatives from the Hawaii education department and the Hawaiian-focused Charter School (HFCS) network recently shared the ways their state policy and the work of the HFCS school network work together to support culturally relevant assessments that center Native Hawaiian culture in schools across Hawaii. During a fall 2018 convening in which leaders from HFCS came together with practitioners from districts across California to share lessons from their respective performance-assessment systems, one of the biggest questions that emerged was: What would it look like to employ culturally relevant performance assessments in diverse contexts in which there are many cultures with which students identify? Charlene Hoefounder of the Hakipuu Learning Center in Hawaiiresponded that culture is defined by a students local context or history: It may include students personal racial or ethnic background but it is also defined by their neighborhood, their school, and their home. Making an assessment culturally relevant in diverse contexts means allowing students to draw connections between their learning and their direct, daily experiences with the world, and treating those experiences as an asset in the classroom. Cultural Relevance in Diverse School Systems: Lessons From California Given this understanding of cultural relevance, it is possible to understand how to design and implement culturally relevant performance assessments to serve diverse student populations. One such context is the California Performance Assessments Collaborative (CPAC), a Learning Policy Institute initiative. CPAC represents policymakers, researchers, and a professional learning community of districts, networks, and schools across the state of California working to study and advance the use of performance assessments. CPAC was founded to help build systems of assessment that more equitably serve all students within diverse student populations; this concern for equity has been a central organizing tenet of CPAC since its inception. The work of CPAC is being led by school districts such as Los Angeles Unified , Oakland Unified , and Pasadena Unified , which are using performance assessments to operationalize their respective district profiles of college-, career-, and community-ready graduates. These district visions call for students to move beyond the mastery of academic-content knowledge to reflect on their learning, cultivate social-emotional skills, and become civically engaged within their communities. Although cultural relevance manifests differently across CPAC schools based upon their local contexts, the work being led by CPAC members has yielded key lessons about how to make performance assessments culturally responsive in diverse contexts: Step 1: Put relationships at the center and provide the space for students to share their stories. [The senior defense] gives us a chance to really get to know our kids. ... It's their chance and their moment to shine because they may not have had a moment like that before." School Administrator in Pasadena Unified School District The public nature of student defense presentations provides a powerful platform for students to share their stories and build stronger relationships with their teachers. Pasadena Unified school district, for example, is in its first year of requiring that graduating high school students complete a senior defense. Students compile a portfolio of artifacts"a collection of exemplary samples of their coursework from across their high school years, including an intensive research projectand then reflect on their learning, growth, and future plans in front of a panel composed of their teachers, counselors, family, and other members of their community. These defense presentations can be a powerful platform for students to reflect on their learning and situate their stories within the context of broader community issues. Research from neuroscientist Mary Helen Immordino-Yang confirms that reflecting on the broader meaning of tasks helps youth engage deeply with academic content, overcome negative stereotypes, and build purpose. Because the senior defense encourages students to draw from their own lived experiences, students often use such assessments to explore topics they find personally significant and culturally relevant. For example, one Pasadena student began her presentation by sharing that she had been raised by a single mother in Peru until age 5, completed prekindergarten in Dallas, and moved to Pasadena in 5th gradewhich is where she believes her life truly started. It was there that she met two teachers who helped her feel at home. Yes, they are teachers to me, she shared, but they are my mentors. They are my father figures. Theyve seen me laugh. Theyve seen me cry. Her portfolio artifacts included a research paper investigating affordable-housing policy in Los Angeles, a reflection on her volunteer work, and an original piece of choreography she created with her classmates. As she presented each artifact, she identified how she met graduation outcomesthrough research, collaboration, and creativityand then reflected on what each assignment taught her about herself. Given her poise, the students panelists were shocked when she shared that she had not always been self-confident: I used to be shythe girl in the back. I feel like keeping my voice shut and not getting it out there made me belittle myself. I had to learn how to put my voice out there. I want to study psychology and want to help people with suicide problems. If I dont have communication skills, how am I going to help them? Having a safe space in which to share their stories and seeing their stories as part of the acquisition of academic knowledge can empower students to bring their whole selves into the classroom. Cultivating structures for effective caring spaces in which students and adults can build meaningful one-on-one relationshipscan be an uphill battle, especially in large, comprehensive high schools. Performance assessments can help create such spaces because they provide a forum for students to reflect on and share their own stories. Step 2: Use students personal experiences to drive civic and community engagement. My family, as an immigrant family, has struggled receiving and having access to health care. Also, lots of people in my community have that same issue. It was a topic I wanted to bring awareness to because it has limited cultural sensitivity. A lot of people don't know there's this issue in the community, specifically this community." 12th Grade Student in Oakland Unified School District In Oakland Unified (OUSD), a growing number of students are completing a graduate capstone project a performance-based assessment that requires them to spend a year conducting intensive research on a topic they are passionate about and then give an oral presentation about it at the end of their senior year to an audience of their teachers and the broader community. Similar to a senior defense, the graduate capstone project encourages students to use their own identities and interests to guide their research. Said one Oakland student: You get to show your personality. You go up and present, and theyre like, OK, who is she? Your topic kind of gives a little bit of who you are, the way you show yourself, and how you talk. That gets to show the personality and who you are. I think thats a really cool way to evaluate kids. A key requirement of Oaklands capstone project is that students research addresses a local community need. The theory of change for OUSDs graduate capstone is: If the capstone is built to complement the districts graduate profile, and K-12 grade-level instruction is vertically aligned with the capstone, then the resulting instructional coherence will promote a positive culture of teacher and staff collaboration and improve both teacher retention and student outcomes. Figure 1. OUSD Graduate Capstone Theory of Change This way, a students capstone research can move from storytelling to civic action. For example, one student in the district used her graduate capstone project to explore systemic and personal solutions to the pervasiveness of flavored-tobacco products in her community. She identified marketing of kid-friendly flavors of nicotine that targeted people her age as a key cause of the problem. As an English-learner, the student entered her senior year thinking that completing the intensive research and presentation that the capstone demands would be impossible. However, after interning with a local tobacco-control program and conducting intensive research on the politics of flavored tobacco, she emerged a confident advocate for her community. Compelled to take action on her research findings, the student surveyed 75 students in her school about their tobacco use and presented her findings to 9th grade students at her school to warn her younger peers of the health effects of nicotine and of the nicotine industrys dangerous marketing strategies. By asking students to focus on their experiences in their local communities and to think critically about how to take action in those spaces, performance assessments not only assess students skills but are a powerful form of learning and reflection in and of themselves. Encouraging students to address a need in their own community sends the signal that their local communities matter and that they have the power to create positive change within and beyond them. The Power of Culturally Relevant Performance Assessments By centering students cultures in the classroom, schools are rejecting a deficit view of culture, instead recognizing and celebrating students personal experiences as valid and powerful sources of knowledge. This can foster a sense of cultural belonging among all students, especially those whose cultural identities are not traditionally honored and represented in the classroom. The science of learning and development supports this whole child approach to education that encompasses social, emotional, and academic learning. By making students experiences the focus of their learning, performance assessments serve as an important and effective vehicle for recognizing and exploring students rich and varied cultural identities. The China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) opened at the China National Convention Center in Beijing on Tuesday. This year's event will last through June 1, with more than 120 forums and 110 promotions and talks. The fair has an exhibition area of 150,000 square meters, tripling that of last year's CIFTIS. The increase provides space for sub-venues that are new additions to the event. The CIFTIS is co-organized by the Ministry of Commerce and the Beijing Municipal People's Government, and is jointly supported by the WTO, UNCTAD, and OECD. According to Wang Bingnan, deputy minister commerce, the CIFTIS has approval of the Central Committee of the CPC and the State Council, and it is positioned as a "globally influential fair for trade in services." The fair's name was changed from the previous China Beijing International Fair for Trade in Services to reflect an upgraded exhibition event. The main venue is set at the National Convention Center, the Beijing International Convention Center, and the Olympic Celebration Square. It has a total exhibition area of 70,000 square meters, with zones of achievements display area, international exhibition area, and special theme area for new services, new models, and new commercial activities. The sub-venues are set in Dongcheng district's Wangfujing Walkway, Xicheng district's Financial Street, Chaoyang district's CBD, Haidian district's Zhongguancun, Shijingshan district's Shougang Park, the Tongzhou sub-center, Changping district's Huitian District, the China International Exhibition Center (Shunyi and Jing'anzhuang), and the Palace Museum. Furthermore, the previously biennial event will be held annually starting this year. Event organizers said this move demonstrates the key role CIFTIS plays in China-hosted international fairs, as well as the great hopes pinned on it by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, making it equally significant as the China International Import Expo and the China-ASEAN Exposition. It involves 130 countries and regions including Germany and the U.K. as participants in the trade fair-eight more than last year. They also include representatives from 98 signatories to the Belt and Road Initiative with China, as well as the top 30 countries and regions of trade in services and 14 countries that signed Memorandums of Cooperation with China in that regard. Thailand has been named the guest of honor at this year's event. To date, 7,998 enterprises and institutions are on the list of participants, of whom 1,690 are exhibitors and 6,308 are visitors. They include 614 transnational corporations and industrial giants and 63 Fortune 500 companies, such as JP Morgan Chase, Schneider Electric, Panasonic, Huawei, China Unicom, and Alibaba. A dead baby found Monday morning behind a Bellflower mortuary is the daughter of a missing man who was last seen driving in the city with the child, officials announced Tuesday. Investigators think the baby girl, identified by coroners officials as 8-month-old Alexia Rose Echeverria, died in Sacramento before she was brought to Southern California. The girls father, 22-year-old Alexander Echeverria, has not been located, the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department said. He lives in South Sacramento, according to the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office. The coroners office has placed a security hold on the case, and details about the girls death, including any injuries suffered, could not be released, spokeswoman Sarah Ardalani said. Advertisement Alexander Echeverria, 22, went missing last week with his 8-month-old daughter. The girl was found dead Monday. (Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department) Alexias body was found at 10:37 a.m. Monday behind the Funeraria del Angel Bellflower morturary in the 10300 block of Alondra Boulevard. The body was found sitting upright in a car seat, with a blanket partially covering it, Det. Steve Blagg said during a news conference. The body had no visible signs of trauma from what we could see, and we could only see very little, he said. After Los Angeles officials found the girls body, their investigation led them to the missing persons case, the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office said. Family members had reported Echeverria and his daughter missing earlier Monday. They were believed to be traveling together, and the family was worried because Echeverria had made recent suicidal statements, authorities said. Los Angeles County sheriffs officials originally said the man was 30 years old, but Sacramento records indicate he is 22. He was last seen Friday driving a 2014 Volkswagen Jetta with the license plate 7FFT866. alejandra.reyesvelarde@latimes.com Twitter: @r_valejandra In the wake of an FBI raid at City Hall, a group of L.A. politicians said earlier this year that they wanted to restore public confidence in city government. Nearly half of the City Council asked for a new package of restrictions on fundraising, both for their campaigns and for their favored charities. But when the plan hit the council floor last week, the reaction was skeptical and, at times, dismissive. Some council members voiced alarm about curbing their ability to raise money for local causes. Others said the proposed restrictions would hurt unions and environmental groups. Yet another questioned whether fears about donations from real estate developers are merely hysteria. Im not quite sure whats the problem were trying to solve? asked Councilman Gil Cedillo. Advertisement Despite their concerns, council members agreed to draft several measures to restrict their fundraising activities. But the barrage of questions raised fresh doubts about how much of the overall plan will survive. Until now, the part of the proposal that has gotten the most attention is a ban on political donations from real estate developers who are seeking city approval for their projects. But much of the criticism from council members is being aimed at a less discussed idea: imposing new restrictions on politicians drumming up donations for their chosen charities, a phenomenon known as behested payments. The Ethics Commission recommended banning politicians from asking any restricted source lobbyists, city contractors, bidders and others who have sought approval on a city decision in the prior 12 months to make a donation to their favored charity or community group. The deliberations come six months after the FBI raided the home and offices of Councilman Jose Huizar, who once headed the powerful committee that vets real estate projects. A search warrant showed federal investigators also have been scrutinizing Councilman Curren Price and officials under Council President Herb Wesson and Mayor Eric Garcetti. Corruption concerns Heather Holt, executive director of the citys Ethics Commission, told Cedillo the proposals are designed to address a public perception that quid pro quo and other kinds of corruption are taking place at City Hall. Critics have long argued that behested payments can be a way for moneyed interests to buy influence with politicians. The Times reported last year that Huizar personally asked companies that do business at City Hall to donate to Bishop Mora Salesian High School, where his wife was working as a professional fundraiser, and assigned his staff to help with the effort. The FBI has instructed real estate developers to turn over information about donations to the school and political committees linked to Huizar. Cedillo, who represents part of the Eastside, said the restrictions on fundraising for charities would hurt his ability to deliver Thanksgiving turkeys, toys and other aid to needy residents in his district. Councilman Greig Smith, who represents the northwest San Fernando Valley, said the proposal would make it more difficult for elected officials to use their status in the community to raise money for worthy organizations. Like the Boys and Girls Club, the YMCA, the womens organizations -- whatever you want to do in your district, this puts a chilling effect on that, Smith told his colleagues. Rob Quan, an organizer with the advocacy group Unrig LA, countered that nonprofits should be able to survive in Los Angeles without politicians squeezing donors with city business. It strains credulity to believe that in one of the wealthiest cities in the world, the only way we can raise money for good causes is our elected officials milking special interests with business in front of them, said Quan, whose group favors the proposed restrictions. He is also campaign manager for Carlos Amador, a council candidate in the San Fernando Valley. Looking to curry favor Developers, city contractors and others with a financial stake in city decisions have given five- and six-figure contributions to causes at the request of Mayor Eric Garcetti and other city politicians. Garcetti has raised more than $42 million for his Mayors Fund and other charitable causes. In recent days, Garcetti has said he supports the idea of banning politicians from asking developers for charitable donations. State law requires elected officials to report any donation request they make that results in someone else giving $5,000 or more for a charitable or governmental purpose. An Ethics Commission report found that in the past five years, more than half of behested payments reported by L.A. politicians came from donors with business before City Hall. The question is why those corporations would take the direction of a council member as opposed to simply giving out of the kindness of their own hearts, said Kathay Feng, a representative of Common Cause, which advocates for open government. Its clear that theres an intention to curry favor with an elected official and thats fundamentally what the problem is. Some nonprofit executives argue that the citys proposed restrictions would devastate charitable groups and that the citys politicians should serve as champions for the less fortunate. Kevin Murray, a former state senator and CEO of the nonprofit homeless services agency the Weingart Center, said at a recent meeting that community members expect politicians to use their personal gravitas to help local groups. Donna Lieberman, who works with the American Diabetes Assn., said a donation request from a politician carries much more weight with a potential contributor. Yes, I can ask for a donation from someone, but quite frankly ... when it comes from an elected official, its tenfold in its impact, Lieberman said at a recent town hall meeting on the topic. Under the citys proposal, elected officials could still ask donors who dont have city business to give to their chosen charities. They also could still put out calls for donations through their websites, Twitter, Facebook and other forms of mass media. Council members also took aim at another piece of the reform package: allowing campaign donations only from individuals. Such a move would prevent businesses, labor unions and other organizations from giving to candidates. A hard shift to the right Backers of the proposal said it would make it easier for the public to identify the source of political money. In recent years, donors have made political contributions through business entities such as limited liability companies that make it difficult to know who is truly giving. But Councilman Bob Blumenfield warned that the measure would shut out contributions from unions and advocacy groups, triggering a hard shift to the right politically at City Hall. If the measure goes into effect, an environmental group like the Los Angeles League of Conservation Voters would be put out of business, he said. Under the proposal, business executives, union leaders and those involved in advocacy groups would still be able to give as individuals. Unions and other groups also could continue contributing as much as they want to independent expenditure committees, which can raise and spend unlimited amounts to promote candidates. Council members have already decided to keep any of the proposed changes from going into effect until after the 2020 municipal elections. Such a move would ensure that candidates for seven council seats would continue raising money under the current rules. Councilman David Ryu, who championed the proposed changes, said that despite the criticism from his colleagues, he remains completely optimistic that these reforms will be adopted, said his spokesman Estevan Montemayor. Whether the City Council ushers in these campaign finance reforms or the voters do, reform is bound for City Hall, Montemayor said. emily.alpert@latimes.com Twitter: @AlpertReyes On days she drives her car, Elizabeth Bell often pleads to the divine. Lord, she says, inching toward her Koreatown apartment, please help your child. Universe, please give me a parking spot. Curb space is so rare here, she said, that once she squeezes her midsize 1995 Buick into a spot, she often ditches it there for several days and takes the bus to work. Alllll day, eeeeveryday theres no parking, Bell said, each stretched syllable signaling her exasperation. Advertisement Here in Los Angeles Countys densest area, with 40,000 people jammed into each square mile, the rhythms of daily life revolve around the scarcity of street parking. Residents trade in trucks for tiny Smart cars and decline dinner invites, knowing that theyll likely have to circle the block for an hour if they get home after 5:30 p.m. To avoid losing a coveted spot, residents run errands on scooters and order take-out for dinner. (Marijuana Delivered signs are stapled to several phone poles.) On the worst days, residents surrender to a pricey garage two blocks south near Wilshire Boulevard, or try the guerrilla tactic (and criminal offense) of spray painting over red curbs with gray paint. Looking for parking here, said Gimante Nichols, a filmmaker who lives on Bells block, is like looking for Bigfoot. Its not only that the neighborhood is dense, said Juan Matute, deputy director of the UCLA Institute of Transportation Studies, but also that its housing stock is old. The streets of Koreatown are lined with Art Deco-style apartment complexes, which were built before the city implemented strict regulations requiring off-street parking. (Although there are exceptions, Matute said the general rule of thumb today is that developers must include about 1.25 on-site parking spaces for a one-bedroom unit.) And the neighborhood is on track to get even more crowded, as the swift construction of towering apartment and condo complexes, driven by gentrification, transforms the skyline in Koreatown. For now, perhaps nowhere is as bad as Bells block, the now-infamous intersection of 5th and Catalina streets, where last month two cars one black, one silver sparred for a spot during a recorded 90-minute standoff that made national news. A city traffic officer tickets a vehicle on South Catalina Street near West 5th Streeet. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) When Matute watched the viral video of the stubborn sedans sizing each other up like boxers entering from opposite sides of the ring, it looked to him like an act of civil disobedience by both drivers a silent protest about a real problem. Its a signal that whatever exists now isnt working for people, Matute said. Parking in Koreatown is broken. Parking shortages and the time wasted dealing with them arent as much of a factor in wealthier ZIP codes with more political capital, where people have their own garages and driveways or live in permit-parking districts where residents and guests with passes have their pick of spots. Kevin Brunke of the Wilshire Center Koreatown Neighborhood Council said that, unlike many people in more moneyed areas, Koreatown residents often have long commutes, followed by circling the block, wasting gas and sacrificing time with their families. I do think its unfair, Brunke said. Hellacious parking is a longtime hallmark of life in a metropolis. Some cities rely on tacit parking traditions enforced by local custom, whereas others run on a more Darwinian those-who-circle-the-block-longest-eventually-win mentality. Chicago has an unwritten ruleafter snowstorms if you shovel a spot and call dibs by placing an item in the space, its yours and in New York City, a study of 15 blocks in Manhattan discovered that each year drivers cruised for 366,000 miles farther than the distance to the moon searching for metered parking. In an episode of Seinfeld, titled The Parking Space, George Costanza equates paying for a garage in New York City to going to a prostitute. Why should I pay, he says, when, if I apply myself, maybe I could get it for free? In Southern California, sparring over parking stretches back decades. In the Westlake neighborhood in the 1950s, an Army veteran shot a man in the groin during what police described at the time as a heated argument over a parking spot. In Anaheim in 1991, a man was stabbed to death with a butcher knife following what Orange County officials characterized as a parking space dispute between two families. In 1994, a security guard told The Times that the parking battle between the owners of neighboring strip malls in the Valley was like the Hatfields and the McCoys. But in recent years, Koreatown has reigned as the king of parking wars. A newcomer to the neighborhood asked for parking tips on Reddit. Someone replied: pray, my friend. Another commenter suggested a more drastic option: Buy a forklift or monster truck and move cars intentionally taking up two spaces. Last month, comedian Jenny Yang described parking in Koreatown as a blood sport. I will never again date a guy who lives there and doesnt have parking for me, she tweeted. DEALBREAKER. Matute said there were some things the city could do to alleviate the parking pressures, but they would likely require using cost as a disincentive. Officials could add more meters or create a parking district, he said, but since the number of residents so greatly exceeds available curb space, the permits would need to be sold at a premium. And using price to allocate a public resource in Koreatown would have huge inequities, Matute noted, saying it would disproportionately affect lower-income residents and people of color. You end up forcing those people to go without a car, he said, adding that access to a vehicle expands peoples job options. Brunke, who doesnt own a car and until recently led the neighborhood councils committee for planning, land use, housing and transportation, agreed that a permit district that used high prices to control demand would be problematic. Over time, he said, he hopes more people will give up their cars and rely on public transportation. But, Matute said, before that happens, the parking situation in Koreatown likely will get worse, as people with more money and more cars move into the neighborhood. Just how hard is it to fight a parking ticket in L.A.? Heres one Angelenos story Back on Bells block, the roadside roulette resumed. She pulled her Buick into a spot along 5th Street on a recent Wednesday morning. Her errands grabbing coffee and putting $10 of gas in her tank hadnt taken as long as she expected, and it was only 9:10 a.m. She wasnt technically allowed to park on the south side of the street for another 50 minutes, so she decided to dawdle in her car until street-sweeping hours were officially over. Now that Ive got my spot, Im set, Bell said, smiling. Well, if the parking lady doesnt come back. Bell, 54, who works at a furniture store not far from her home, moved into her Koreatown apartment a few months ago through a program that helps pay her rent. Even though she likes her new neighborhood, she intends to move back to the San Fernando Valley when her lease ends. This is not worth it, she said, of the parking. Im a Valley girl, Im used to hopping in my car like nothing. Out of the corner of her eye, Bell spotted a parking enforcement car coming up behind a white van that was idling on Catalina Street. She got him! Bell said, laughing, as if enthralled by the opening scene of a police procedural. The van pulled away, rounded the block and retreated to the same spot. When another officer rumbled up, the van made another loop. The same cat-and-mouse game plays out every Wednesday until 10 a.m., Bell said. On Thursdays, it repeats itself on the other side of the street. The owners of the white van, as well as a blue truck and a motorcycle, often share keys, Bell said, shuffling cars around for each other on street-sweeping days. Its like they run a valet, she said, adding that, although it bothers her that they monopolize spots, she sometimes wants in on their hustle. Guillermo Cortez Moreno, 43, who drives the white van, said he and his friends sometimes moved cars for one another if one of them was stuck at work. Other times, he said, he positions his van between two spots, saving a space for his other car. We have to do it, he said, shrugging his shoulders. In the nine years he has lived in Koreatown, the parking situation has gotten much worse, Cortez said, adding that he has racked up $600 in tickets. Its always been a mess, he said, but now its even more serious. Up the block, Karyssa LaQuea, 21, reclined in the passenger seat of her car to kill time. LaQuea and her fiance moved into a nearby apartment a few weeks earlier and still couldnt believe the parking scarcity. They once circled the block for 45 minutes, she said, and sometimes they give up, park several blocks away, and take an Uber to their apartment. Its sad, she said, shaking her head. Nichols, the filmmaker, overheard the conversation and asked if they were talking about parking. LaQuea nodded. Oh my God! Its impossible, Nichols said, adding that hes seen people put dressers and refrigerators in the street to save spots. Moments later, two men walked into the street, blockading a space for someone else. One of the men made a phone call. Come here, he told the person on the other line, we got one. Parking lot pimping, Nichols said, as he watched. A few weeks ago, Nichols who has lived on Catalina Street for 11 years started tweeting videos and photos of vehicles taking up multiple spots to the city and the neighborhood council. This selfishness needs to stop in our neighborhoods!! he wrote. We need to work together and find a better solution for parking. Nichols said hes considering joining the neighborhood council and focusing on parking. The first step toward a solution, he believes, is for the city to paint lines on the street, barring people from hogging two spots. Across the block, it was 9:40 a.m. 20 minutes until Bell officially could claim her spot for the week. Just then, a parking officer turned right onto 5th Street. You gotta move, the officer said. OK, sweetie, Bell responded, no problem. Bell sighed, twisting her key in the ignition. Time for another prayer. In the middle of a bustling five-point intersection in Boyle Heights known as Los Cinco Puntos, dozens of veterans and families gathered before noon at a humble memorial honoring the many Mexican Americans who gave their lives fighting for their country. Hands raised to hearts as Tony Zapata, a helicopter crewman during the Vietnam War, began the Pledge of Allegiance. The observance concluded an overnight vigil during which Zapata and colleagues stood guard for 24 hours a tribute and reminder of the large but sometimes overlooked military community on this side of town. There have been thousands and thousands of people of Mexican descent who have served this country, said Zapata, a longtime resident of Boyle Heights who for decades has helped lead this annual ceremony on Memorial Day. Back in World War II, there was a lot of discrimination but they overlooked that, they did what they had to do for their country. They did what they had to do for their community. Alongside family barbecues and picnics on the beach, communities across Los Angeles County on Monday honored and remembered the nations fallen heroes. Helicopters and vintage aircraft flew over Green Hills Memorial Park in Rancho Palos Verdes and the Eternal Flame at McCambridge Park in Burbank. At the Los Angeles National Cemetery in Westwood, Mayor Eric Garcetti paid tribute to the many men and women who have fought and died for the United States. Advertisement Military and police bands played across the region. Parades marched through communities in the San Fernando Valley. Many gathered in San Pedro before the battleship Iowa, hanging U.S. flags along the pier. At Los Cinco Puntos, a helicopter from the Los Angeles Police Department roared overheard as Junior ROTC cadets from Garfield High School performed the presentation of colors. For more than 70 years, residents and community leaders have gathered here on Memorial Day. Built in the years after World War II, this towering concrete pillar has long been a symbol of pride for the Eastside community. More than 500,000 Latinos fought in the war, including 350,000 Mexican Americans, who have the highest percentage of Medal of Honor winners of any minority in the United States. Many from East Los Angeles and Boyle Heights also fought and died in Vietnam, said Juju Sands, who organizes the ceremony with Zapata each year. And many from the communitys younger generations are active military members or in junior training programs, she added. Sons and daughters of veterans remain active in the communitys traditions. Some stepped in this year to stand guard at the memorial. There are a lot of military families here, but some people just dont know that, said Sands, whose father, Ruben Amaro, served in Vietnam. They think this is just a Latino community with taco trucks. Its not easy to get to Westwood or Palos Verdes for the larger Memorial Day ceremonies, she said, so everyone congregates here. With her arms raised toward the crowd, Sands called out the wars in which those sitting before her had served: Vietnam. Kosovo. Iraq. Afghanistan. She clapped for three veterans in the front row, all in their 90s, who fought through World War II. Joining them were longtime leaders from the community. Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard, who grew up in Boyle Heights and went on to become the first Mexican American woman elected to Congress, spoke of the commonalities that unite all Americans and urged her community to remember that freedom is not free. Our democracy and freedom are precious and fragile and in todays world, more than ever, they are under attack constantly both at home and abroad, she said in a tribute to those who died to defend the ideals, values and convictions that make us proud to be American. While we cannot possibly equal their sacrifice, rich or poor, young or old, each of us in our own way has the power to do our part to ensure their sacrifice was not made in vain. Teresa Gonzalez, clutching a large rose and photos of her son, who served in Iraq, nodded along quietly from the first row. Gonzalez has lived down the street for more than 30 years. Each time she walks past this memorial, she said in Spanish, her heart is touched with compassion for all those who sacrificed their lives to protect the people in their communities. After the ceremony, she stepped toward the looming memorial and cradled the rose to the ground. She looked toward the sky and mulled over the words she wanted to say out loud. In Spanish, and then again in English, she declared: For everybody. The state of Oklahoma is poised to go to trial Tuesday against a drugmaker it blames for contributing to the nations opioid crisis. The states lawsuit, the first of its kind to go to trial, could stand as a test case for hundreds more. The trial against consumer products giant Johnson & Johnson and some of its subsidiaries could bring to light documents and testimony that show what companies knew, when they knew it and how they responded. The judge is allowing cameras into the courtroom. There will be no jury. Cleveland County District Judge Thad Balkman, a former Republican state legislator, will decide the case. The outcome could shape negotiations on how to resolve the roughly 1,500 opioid lawsuits filed by state, local and tribal governments that have been consolidated before a federal judge in Ohio. The Oklahoma case could also guide how other firms and states hone their own strategies. Advertisement The lawsuit initially listed 13 companies as defendants, but pre-trial settlements have whittled that down . The state settled this year with OxyContin-maker Purdue Pharma for $270 million. And on Sunday, Israeli-owned Teva Pharmaceuticals agreed to a settlement in which it will pay the state $85 million. Teva did not admit any wrongdoing under the settlement. Now just Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, which produced opioid drugs including Nucynta and the fentanyl patch Duragesic, is left in the lawsuit. Oklahoma alleges that the drugmakers helped create a public health crisis in the state by extensively marketing highly addictive opioids for years in a way that overstated their effectiveness and underplayed the risk of addiction. The damage defendants false and deceptive marketing campaigns caused to the state of Oklahoma is catastrophic, the lawsuit states. As a result of the defendants egregious conduct, the state of Oklahoma paid, and continues to pay, millions of dollars for health care costs that stem from prescription opioid dependency. The companies maintain that they are part of a lawful and heavily regulated industry that is subject to strict federal oversight, and that doctors are the ones who prescribe the drugs. Much of the opioid crisis, they argue, is the result of illegal activity, such as drugs being stolen or fraudulently obtained. Both sides have been wrangling for two years over many pretrial issues in the complicated case, and although a settlement is still possible, the state and Johnson & Johnson both say they are ready for trial. Because many of the documents in the case involve trade secrets or marketing strategies and have been filed under seal, experts say much of the litigation so far has been marked by secrecy. Lots of documents have been redacted, sealed or exchanged pursuant to confidentiality agreements, said Stanford Law School professor Nora Freeman Engstrom, an expert in tort law and legal ethics who has been closely following the case. The court will pull back the curtain. Itll provide one of the first opportunities to see what started, and what fueled, this public health crisis. The federal judge in Ohio overseeing the hundreds of other cases has been pushing for the industry and governments to reach a global settlement to make a dent in the opioid crisis. But some family members of those who have died from overdoses say they dont want the cases settled and would rather see the companies role in the crisis revealed in a trial. Opioids, including prescription drugs and illicit ones such as heroin, were factors in nearly 48,000 deaths in the U.S. in 2017, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That was more deaths than the number of people killed in automobile crashes. Even in best-case scenario, opioid overdose deaths will keep rising until 2022 Why opioids hit white areas harder: Doctors there prescribe more readily, study finds At first blush, the most recent state audit of the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services seems maddeningly familiar. It cites failures in systems that are meant to ensure that children are protected from abuse and neglect. Reports on risky conditions in childrens homes are late and incomplete. When children are taken from their parents and sent to live with relatives, background checks of those relatives and inspections of their homes are spotty. Even assessments designed to measure the well-being of children in the departments care fall short of standards. Previous critical state audits, and the high-profile deaths of 8-year-old Gabriel Fernandez in 2013 and 10-year-old Anthony Avalos last year, moved the Board of Supervisors to increase the departments budget and hire more social workers. Four child welfare workers are being criminally prosecuted for their alleged failures in Gabriels case. A blue-ribbon commission recommended systemic changes in child protection and oversight. The county has certainly been on notice about serious problems in its child welfare system. So the audits findings are a cause for concern. And yet, a closer examination reveals they are not necessarily reason for outrage. Advertisement For example, take the finding that the ratio of social workers to supervisors is too high and in fact increased from 5.5, on average, to 6.3 during the year that the audit examined. That means too many reports for each supervisor to properly review and complete on a timely basis. If there are more front-line workers, there must also be more supervisors. Not noted in the audit is the reason for that growing ratio. In the wake of the Gabriel Fernandez tragedy, the commissions recommendations and a labor action by rank-and-file department employees, the county finally stepped up its hiring and training of front-line social workers. That means lower caseloads per worker, which is a very positive development. More manageable caseloads means more care and attention for each child who is referred to the department because of suspected abuse or neglect. If there are more front-line workers, though, there must also be more supervisors. Supervisor caseloads got especially out of whack in the Antelope Valley, where both Gabriel and Anthony died. To DCFS Director Bobby Cagles credit, the department addressed that regions problem, but it must now do the same for the rest of the county. The audit cited shortcomings in background checks of grandparents and others who step in to take care of children who must temporarily be removed from their homes. Those checks are essential, because the department tries to place kids with relatives rather than foster care whenever possible. One study after another shows far better outcomes for children who are sent for a time to live with their adult relatives than those sent to be with strangers in foster care, no matter how caring and responsible the foster parents are; but the department must be assured that the relatives homes are safe. Social workers must be confident they are not sending children to live in risky conditions or with dangerous relatives. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute It may well be that state law is too restrictive by disqualifying grandparents, aunts and uncles with (for example) a marijuana arrest in the past. But thats no excuse for not running a background check. The audit also noted that the department too often fails to close investigations into suspected abuse or neglect within the state-required 30 days. This is a distressingly familiar concern, having been also noted in a 2012 state audit. At that time, the department explained that it allowed itself 60 days rather than rush to a conclusion and possibly miss something important. Lower caseloads and additional resources should now allow timelier investigations. Many of the other problems reported in the audit are of a similar nature. They indicate continuing or emerging gaps in the countys effort to improve its service. These are troubling, even though the problems may not be as grave as they might seem on the surface. To that extent, the report is valuable and ought to be taken seriously by the department and by the Board of Supervisors, which bears the ultimate responsibility for adequately funding and overseeing child welfare in L.A. County. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook The results of the just concluded European Union parliamentary elections werent as bad as supporters of the postwar order of liberal democracies had feared they would be. But they werent good, either. The nationalist right improved its position slightly, and the Greens and other left-leaning parties did better than anticipated. But the real news and the real concern is the continuing erosion of the political middle, and the strong showing by nationalists in Italy and France. The takeaway? Support for European solidarity, and even the very notion of a European Union, continues to fragment. The pressures are considerable. Immigration, there as here, galvanized nationalists to continue their troubling repudiations of diversity and tolerance. And there are no easy solutions to the flow of hundreds of thousands of migrants from Middle East and North African war zones, and from political and economic instability some of it climate-driven in sub-Saharan Africa. That influx has exposed European fractures and played a significant role in persuading German Chancellor Angela Merkel, whose Christian Democratic Union party was trounced in regional elections last fall, to not seek reelection. It fueled Brexit, the British vote to leave the European Union a process that has foundered so badly that now Prime Minister THeresa May is resigning and the Tories are fighting for the soul of the Conservative Party. It has helped propel nationalists to powerful positions in Italy, Hungary and Austria. Anti-Semitism also is on the rise, which we can only hope is a hiccup and not an echo of a dark and horrific past. Of course, this struggle between inward-focusing nationalism and globalization-embracing liberalism isnt just a European phenomenon, and the battle is being fought on many fronts at the same time. Donald Trump exploited that rift to win the White House. Scandal-weary Brazil elected far-right populist Jair Bolsonaro in October. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte solidified power in legislative elections earlier this month despite or perhaps because of extrajudicial killings of suspected drug dealers and addicts that have drawn international condemnations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu nationalists were just overwhelmingly reelected in India. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute Advertisement Unfortunately, this broad disillusionment with an interconnected world comes against the backdrop of a rising China, which promotes a self-serving vision of globalism, and an aggressively meddlesome Russia, which is determined to reassert itself as a power. Trumps withdrawal of the U.S. as a leader on the international stage has left a vacuum and uncertainty about the future of international engagement. Nationalism helped propel Europe into two devastating wars in the 20th century, and while the current situation does not indicate that we are heading down that road again, the world will face better prospects for peace, mutual prosperity and respect for fundamental human rights through cooperation and interconnections. As countries focus more on what they believe makes their populations unique, they risk obscuring the commonalities of humankind that we must rely on to confront an ever-changing world and one that is careening toward existential crisis from global warming, a shared problem that will require a shared solution. The EU election results also show us what happens when leaders of government fail to lead. Frances Yellow Vests movement is born of similar conditions to the United States tea party movement: a sense that national leaders and dominant multinational corporations have failed to recognize globalizations impacts on small towns and rural areas suffering moribund local economies and stubborn unemployment, and the stress that places on local cultures and standards of living. Growing income inequality reinforces the notion that governments place the interests of wealth over all others. European voters have delivered yet another wake-up call to the governing classes of the EU nations, and of our own. There are crosscurrents and divergent wants within those nations, but a common sentiment is that people are not happy with the way theyre being governed. They want change, but often cant define exactly what that change should be, or even whether its forward-looking or a return to an often-romanticized sense of a better past. Nevertheless, one thing is rock-solid sure: The future cannot be forged by authoritarian regimes led by unaccountable strongmen in defiance of international norms of decency and democratic institutions. This closing off of ourselves from one another, this ostracizing of migrants or minority populations within our own nations, is not a recipe for success. If we devolve further into disunity and fail to forge our way back to compromise and common ground, we will find progress to be elusive on nearly all fronts. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or Facebook. When you go to a grocery store, you dont put a loaf of bread or a cut of meat into your basket without looking at the price tag. But when Americans go to a doctor or a hospital, they typically have no idea what their healthcare provider will charge for the services theyre going to receive. Instead, they stick with the providers in their network, trust their doctors treatment recommendations and hope that their insurer will cover most of the cost. Thats fine until youre in a car wreck and an ambulance takes you to an out-of-network hospital for emergency care. Or until you go to an in-network emergency room, only to discover later that the specialists assigned to your case were out-of-network. Then you get hit with a surprise bill above and beyond your insurance co-pay that may be more crippling than the injury that sent you to the hospital in the first place. More than 1 in 10 American adults has received an unexpected bill from an out-of-network provider, according to a survey last year by NORC at the University of Chicago. Horror stories about surprise bills have become so common that a recent Kaiser Family Foundation poll found that more than three-fourths of those surveyed want Congress to protect them from this practice. Congress needs to step in and protect people from being taken advantage of while they are flat on their backs. Advertisement Washington is listening. At least four bipartisan bills to curtail surprise medical bills have been introduced in Congress. And President Trump jumped into the debate earlier this month, calling on Congress to move on the issue. But while there is a consensus about the nature of the problem, there is no agreement yet on how to solve it. Ultimately, lawmakers will have to make an uncomfortable choice about winners and losers, either forcing insurers to eat more of the costs which they will then pass on to consumers in the form of higher premiums or making healthcare providers take a haircut on their fees. Or both. The out-of-network billing problem exists in part because insurers have sought to rein in costs by shrinking their provider networks and steering patients to less expensive doctors and hospitals. But some specialists and provider groups have deliberately played the out-of-network game. This is especially true in emergency rooms, where the patients inability to choose their doctors provides a strong incentive for physicians not to cut deals with insurers. For example, a 2017 study on surprise bills by Yale University researchers reported that one group of emergency room physicians that exited networks to bill as out-of-network providers charged twice as much for care as their ERs used to charge. The various proposals in Congress would all prevent patients from being billed more for out-of-network emergency care than they would have to pay for in-network care. They differ, though, over the issue of who should have to cover the costs that patients would no longer have to pay. A proposal by Sens. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.) lays out three options: One is to let out-of-network providers and insurers settle disputes over fees through binding arbitration. Another is to have Congress set a benchmark price for each service for example, the average amount that an insurer has agreed to pay in-network providers. A third is to require all providers and diagnostic services at an in-network hospital to be in-network as well. (The California Legislature is considering a good proposal of its own to end surprise ER bills: Assembly Bill 1611, which would require insurance policies to impose the same out-of-pocket limits for emergency treatment regardless of whether it was provided in or out of network. The measure would set benchmarks to limit how much hospitals could charge for emergency and post-stabilization treatment, similar to the approach the state has already taken to protect residents against surprise bills for non-emergency care.) Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute Setting a benchmark based on average in-network fees makes more sense than leaving disputes between insurers and out-of-network providers to bare-knuckled arbitration. Such a benchmark is the closest approximation available to a fair market price, and it would be an important safeguard against gouging. Ultimately, policymakers need to do more to enable healthcare consumers to learn about costs ahead of time and to bring competition and market forces to bear on this industry, especially with Americans on the hook for ever-rising deductibles. The Trump administration has pushed healthcare providers to publish their prices so that consumers (and insurers) can more easily shop around. Even more helpful are efforts to develop teams of providers that compete by offering complete treatments for set prices, as companies such as Remedy Partners are doing. Yet when it comes to emergency care, patients cant shop around for providers, giving doctors and hospitals a captive audience and a free pass to gouge. Congress needs to step in and protect people from being taken advantage of while they are flat on their backs. State lawmakers should do the same. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand Facebook Without the ILLEGAL Witch Hunt, my poll numbers, especially because of our historically great economy, would be at 65%, President Trump tweeted last week. In all likelihood, the president believes what he wrote. Its a strongly held sentiment among many of Trumps ardent supporters that if he hadnt been stabbed in the back by the Deep State, the investigation of special counsel Robert S. Mueller III and a complicit media, people would have realized by now that Trump is, as the actor Jon Voight recently put it, the greatest president since Abraham Lincoln. Or at least they would give him a fairer shake than hes gotten. Is it true that the presidents poll numbers have suffered largely because of what he calls a witch hunt? The shortest and most accurate answer for this and all counterfactuals is, We can never know. Still, theres ample reason to conclude the answer is, probably not. Advertisement There are two mutually reinforcing reasons for this conclusion, one structural the other specific to Trump. The structural explanation is that the electorate has been growing more polarized for decades, and the presidency had become a symbol in the culture war long before Trump. This is a defining feature of Trumps character. The only people who matter are the ones who love him. There have been only a handful of times in recent decades when any president has enjoyed a super-majority of public approval. During wartime, for example, the rally around-the-president effect often swamps partisanship. George H.W. Bush hit 89% after the first Iraq war, and after 9/11, his son reached 90%. Other events can also goose approval ratings. Bill Clintons highest approval numbers were reported on the day he was impeached (a fact House Speaker Nancy Pelosi probably is thinking about as the House considers impeaching Trump). Its widely believed the bump in Clintons polling was less a referendum on the president than on the effort to remove him. Barack Obamas best performance 69% -- came four days after his inauguration, when many Americans were hopeful that his presidency could deliver on his campaign promise to put the culture wars behind us. In all of these cases, however, the entropic effect of polarization reasserted itself as Americans divided back into Red and Blue teams. Obviously, events mattered. If, say, the second Iraq war had gone swimmingly things might have been different, but theres little reason to believe the larger trend wouldnt have manifested itself again in time. And then theres the specific case. Trump won in 2016 by picking the lock of the electoral college while losing the popular vote by nearly 3 million votes. According to Gallup, he took office with an approval rating of 45%. His highest approval rating in Gallups polling was achieved last month: 46%. The notion that the public would have come around to Trump but for the Mueller probe presupposes that the investigation is what made him unpopular, when all of the evidence suggests that the investigation was merely something that people who already disliked the president put their hopes in. When Muellers finding that there was no collusion was released, Trumps approval rating went down, not up. Also, the fact that Trump enjoys majority approval for his handling of the economy even as his overall disapproval ratings stay high, demonstrates that voters dont look only to economic indicators when judging presidents. There is, however, one way in which the Mueller probe may have hurt him: His reaction to it. When impeachment loomed for Clinton, however much he was privately obsessed with it, his public position was to ignore it and at least seem like he was focused on the peoples business. Trump went a different way. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute Normal presidents begin their terms by reaching across the aisle and attempting to at least appear as if they represent the whole country. They try to build on the coalition that elected them. Trump has never made any sustained effort in this regard. From his inaugural address onward Trump has catered to his biggest fans and most ardent supporters. This is a defining feature of Trumps character. The only people who matter are the ones who love him. And since his election, hes routinely mocked the idea that he should be presidential because his fans would find it boring. Its easy to imagine a world where the Mueller probe never happened. Its harder to imagine one where Trump isnt Trump, which is why 65% approval was never in the cards. jgoldberg@latimescolumnists.com To the editor: UC Hastings law professor George Bisharats piece is an anti-Israel screed cloaked in the garb of democratic progressivism. The Jewish state of Israel exists on the land of historic Israel, not on Bisharats historic Palestine. Furthermore, Palestinians are not disenfranchised by Israel. They are disenfranchised by the Palestinian Authority, which has refused to hold elections since 2006. Hamas, whose tyrannical leadership controls the Gaza Strip, has no interest in free elections. Palestinians are also disenfranchised by their own refusal of multiple generous offers of peace and their own state. Finally, Bisharats despicable attempt to smear Israel with the apartheid label falls flat. Israeli Arabs have fully equal rights with Israeli Jews. Palestinians who have long demanded their own state are not, by their own choice, citizens of Israel. Advertisement Bisharats distortions are a thinly disguised attack on the worlds only Jewish state. Daniel H. Trigoboff, Williamsville, N.Y. .. To the editor: Out of 120 Israeli parliamentarians, 17 are Palestinian thats hardly apartheid. Furthermore, the Israelis were not taking land from another people when they established their state; rather, they were returning to their homeland after their 1st century expulsion by the Roman Empire. How many people remain refugees for 71 years? At the founding of Israel, Arab states expelled more than 800,000 Jews. Instead of wallowing in self-pity and apathy, Jews established a vibrant, technologically and scientifically advanced society with equal rights for all who reside within Israel proper. The West Bank and Gaza could have been a state, but according to the Palestinians chief negotiator during the 2008 peace talks, then-Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmerts offer of territory effectively more than the size of the West Bank was rejected. One state is a nonstarter. Jack Salem, Los Angeles .. To the editor: Bisharats thoughtful plea brings up two issues. First, using South Africas Freedom Charter as a model for reconciliation between the Israelis and the Palestinians is an excellent idea. But who in the Middle East has the moral authority of a Nelson Mandela to make it work? Second, the great Palestinian intellectual Edward Said argued for the single-state solution, but he never had a good answer to the question of how Jews would fare under Palestinian majority rule. David Wilczynski, Manhattan Beach Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook One of China's most wanted graft fugitives has returned to China and turned herself in six years after fleeing overseas, China's top anti-graft authority announced Tuesday. Mo Peifen, a former project leader of a real estate company in Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, is suspected of duty encroachment, according to a statement from the website of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection of the Communist Party of China and the National Supervisory Commission. Mo, born in 1953, fled overseas in August 2013, the statement said. The Hangzhou Municipal People's Procuratorate issued an arrest warrant for Mo on the charge of duty encroachment in November 2014. She was listed on the Interpol Red Notice in December 2014. Mo is the 57th of China's top 100 fugitives listed on the Interpol Red Notice who have returned to China. The statement said that fugitive repatriation and asset recovery is a journey to which there is no end, urging other fugitives to give up the illusion (of being unpunished) and surrender for a lenient punishment. To the editor: The letter that advocates pardoning U.S. soldiers accused of war crimes shows how far weve fallen into the moral abyss under President Trumps America first policies. People who complain that we cannot win a war while adhering to the rules of engagement strike me as ignorant of what they are condoning. If an invading army took this persons family to a field, shot them, and threw them into a ditch, I doubt he would be so smug about allowing military organizations to commit atrocities in the name of winning a war. But then, bullies believe they will always remain in the stronger position. Their bravado prevents them from understanding that the shoe could someday be on the other foot. Is it not clear that such disgusting acts do not improve an armys chance of winning a war against another countrys military? War itself is horrible enough, but to ignore even greater depravity by a military organization against a civilian population or captive military personnel is exactly what the international law against war crimes was intended to deter and prevent. Advertisement To shield ones own military from prosecution for such acts is immoral and only invites our enemies to commit them against us and our military. Ray McKown, Torrance .. To the editor: If the debate about committing violent acts during war comes down to legal authorization by superiors as opposed to individual initiative, I must ask: Did the excuse I was only following orders do any good at Nuremberg? David Ando, Torrance Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook Transgender people were once banned from serving openly in the armed forces and may be again. June 30, 2016 | Breakthrough Defense Secretary Ash Carter announces that, effective immediately, transgender people will no longer be discharged or denied reenlistment in the military because of their gender identity. July 26, 2017 | Enter Trump In a series of tweets, President Trump calls for reinstating the ban on transgender people to serve openly in the military, reversing the Obama administration policy. Advertisement Aug. 28, 2017 | Lawsuit Cathrine Schmid joins a lawsuit filed in Washington state against reinstating the transgender military ban. Among the plaintiffs are other transgender service members, the Human Rights Campaign and the Gender Justice League. March 23, 2018 | New ban Trump issues an order banning transgender individuals from serving in the armed forces except under limited circumstances. The order bars anyone with gender dysphoria who is taking hormones or has already undergone a gender transition from enlisting. Currently serving troops diagnosed with untreated gender dysphoria will have to serve in their sex as assigned at birth and cannot take hormones or undergo gender reassignment surgery while in the military. Nov. 23, 2018 | Ruling, please The Trump administration asks the U.S. Supreme Court to rule on lawsuits challenging the transgender ban, seeking to bypass lower courts. Schmids case is among the challenges. Jan. 22, 2019 | Supreme Court The Supreme Court lifts lower-court injunctions blocking the ban from going into effect, but declines to rule on the lawsuits seeking to have the ban overturned. One of the cases is sent back to a lower court in California, probably delaying a decision for a year or more. Under President Obama, Defense Secretary Ash Carter would abolish the ban on transgender people in the armed forces. (Carolyn Kaster / Associated Press) READ MORE: A transgender soldier who fought to wear the Army uniform wonders if it still fits Sources: Times research, court records My first introduction to Army Staff Sgt. Cathrine Schmid came in January when I noticed a tweet she posted: Trans people shouldnt be in the military cause they cant deploy. She attached a picture of herself in Army combat fatigues, a look of mock surprise on her face. After a look at her Twitter bio, I got the joke: Schmid was a transgender soldier deployed in South Korea. Two days earlier the Supreme Court had lifted nationwide injunctions that barred the Trump administration from carrying out a ban on transgender military service. President Trump had ordered the ban in 2017, and now it was going into effect. Advertisement It was a whipsaw shift in U.S. policy, coming only three years after the Obama administration told thousands of transgender service members they could finally serve openly. READ MORE: A transgender soldier who fought to wear the Army uniform wonders if it still fits I write about the military in the Los Angeles Times Washington bureau and was looking for a fresh way to write about transgender service members. I wanted to understand what it was like to belong to an organization that repeatedly told transgender service members that they didnt belong. Schmids tweets were funny, acerbic and, in some cases, highly personal. There were hints she had endured a lot of pain and had emerged with a tough determination not to be forced back into the shadows, even by the commander in chief. After I sent Schmid a message asking to interview her, she quickly agreed. On March 18, we met face-to-face at the main gate at Camp Humphreys, a sprawling U.S. military base outside the South Korean city of Pyeongtaek, where Schmid is stationed. She was off duty, dressed in civilian clothes and smoking a cigarette. I wouldnt have picked her out as a soldier, if I hadnt known. Over the next three days, I interviewed Schmid at length. Since she is an intelligence analyst who works in a building thats off-limits without a security clearance, I couldnt observe her at work all day. But I was able to spend time with her, both elsewhere on base and in the city outside the gate. Timeline: Transgender service members and the military She spoke movingly about her 14-year ordeal to stay in the Army while transitioning from male to female. She had been nearly kicked out multiple times, and had lost her marriage, her friendships, and nearly her life. Yet she loved being a soldier. I didnt fully understand why. Then as we walked one day toward her favorite Thai restaurant, we passed a young solider, who called out genially from across the street, Hi, Sgt. Schmid. Thats one of my Joes, Schmid told me proudly, using an Army name for junior soldiers. I also interviewed one of Schmids superiors at a Starbucks on the base. He spoke glowingly about her, and said he hadnt realized she had transitioned from male to female until someone mentioned it, and didnt care. I had traveled all the way to South Korea thinking I would report a story about a soldier who was an outcast. But I began to see that wasnt the full story. At least in her immediate circle, the Army had embraced Schmid. The military is a diverse place, full of soldiers barely out of high school who have grown up much more accepting of trans people. Its also supposed to be a meritocracy, with rigid rules about treating fellow service members with respect and discipline. That, I realized, was why she loved it. Possibly even more than the civilian world, the Army offered her a chance not to be an outcast. The latest from Washington More stories from David S. Cloud Rep. Duncan Hunter has acknowledged taking a photo with a dead combatant during his time as a Marine as he defended a Navy SEAL charged with multiple war crimes, including killing a teenage fighter. Hunter (R-Alpine), who was reelected last November as he faces corruption charges, made the comments during a town hall Saturday in his San Diego-area district, the Union-Tribune reported. Hunter has advocated for a pardon for Edward Gallagher, whos charged with stabbing to death a teenage Islamic State fighter under his care in Iraq in 2017 and then holding his reenlistment ceremony with the body. Prosecutors said the Navy SEAL chief texted a photograph of himself next to the dead fighter and wrote he got him with my hunting knife. Hes also accused of shooting two civilians in Iraq and opening fire on crowds. Advertisement Hunter said he also posed for a photo next to a dead combatant but said he did not text it or post it to social media. The congressman said a lot of us have done the exact same thing, referring to fellow service members in Iraq and Afghanistan. Hunter called the military justice system corrupt, saying it is run by lawyers and bureaucrats intent on pursuing war fighters. His offices didnt return calls and emails seeking comment Monday. Gallaghers 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. Dozens of Republican congressmen say Gallagher is an innocent war hero being unfairly prosecuted. President Trump got him moved from the brig to better confinement in a military hospital with access to his lawyers and family. Trump says he is considering pardons for several American military members accused of war crimes. Gallaghers court-martial is set to begin this week at Naval Base San Diego. Gallagher has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. At the town hall, Hunter declined to comment on his own pending court case. Hunter and his wife, Margaret, were indicted in 2017 on federal charges of illegally converting more than $250,000 in campaign contributions for personal living expenses. Both have pleaded not guilty and have their next court hearing scheduled for July 29. Trial is set for later this year. The latest head to roll in President Trumps continued purge of top Homeland Security officials is that of Lee Francis Cissna, the director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Trump asked for Cissnas resignation, which he submitted Friday, according to an email Cissna sent to agency personnel. Hell leave the agency on June 1. While not known as a flamethrower, Cissna courted controversy as he sought to implement Trumps policies during his tenure at Citizenship and Immigration Services. He pursued the administrations stated goal of reducing immigration, both legal and illegal. Citizenship and Immigration Services is tasked with processing immigration benefits, citizenship and, in a new focus under the Trump administration, denaturalization. Cissna had a brief moment in headlines last year when he edited the beginning of Citizenship and Immigration Services mission statement, USCIS secures Americas promise as a nation of immigrants, to eliminate the phrase nation of immigrants. He told his staff the change clarified the agencys role in lawful immigration. The change was seen by some as forecasting an inward turn. Advertisement But he apparently lacked enough zeal to please some of Trumps hard-line advisors on immigration issues, leading to his ouster. In his exit announcement, Cissna repeatedly emphasized the rule of law, writing that his 20-month tenure laid the groundwork for many more, much-needed, lawful reforms to come in the near future. He also hinted at the current upheaval at Homeland Security, describing his tenure as a challenging time. We are the government servants charged with lawfully, efficiently and fairly adjudicating requests for immigration benefits, while protecting Americans, securing the homeland, and honoring our nations values, he wrote Friday in his email, obtained by The Times. Underscoring the uncertainty at Homeland Security, the federal governments third-largest department with roughly 240,000 employees, Cissna reportedly will be replaced by Ken Cuccinelli II -- an immigration hardliner and cable news fixture whose name administration officials just days ago floated as a new immigration czar. Cuccinelli, however, has a strong enemy in Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky. Neither McConnells office nor the White House responded to requests for comment. In April, Trump forced out then-Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, naming Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Kevin McAleenan as her replacement. Nielsen spent her last days at the department announcing a cascade of exits for top officials, including U.S. Secret Service Director Randolph Tex Alles; Claire Grady, the acting deputy Homeland Security secretary; and acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Ronald D. Vitiello. The purge at Homeland Security began a few days before Nielsens removal, when Trump blindsided her and many other officials by abruptly pulling Vitiellos nomination to lead ICE on a permanent basis. At first, White House aides told congressional staffers the withdrawal notification had been sent in error. Then Trump told reporters he wanted to go in a tougher direction on immigration enforcement. The president also surprised officials when he announced in early May his pick to replace Vitiello, Mark Morgan, a Border Patrol chief under President Obama. In his confirmation hearings, Cissna whose mother immigrated to the U.S. from Peru told lawmakers that he spoke Spanish exclusively at home with his children, explaining, the immigrant experience has always been a fundamental part of my family life. Under his tenure, Citizenship and Immigration Services has directed more resources to reducing a ballooning immigration-case backlog more than 890,000 pending immigration cases, with an average wait of more than two years sometimes at the expense of other missions. At the border and across the country, agency officers interview asylum seekers to help determine whether their cases will proceed or whether they will be removed from the U.S. Cissna took officers who conduct citizenship interviews and reassigned them to the southern border to interview asylum seekers. In the last two years, wait times for citizenship have doubled. In recent weeks, Citizenship and Immigration Services also has begun to train Border Patrol agents to conduct initial interviews that asylum seekers go through to determine whether they have what U.S. law defines as a credible fear of being persecuted in their home country. The moves gave new power to the Border Patrol and took some discretion away from Citizenship and Immigration Services asylum officers, part of an effort to toughen the process for people seeking asylum. In March, Cissna announced that his agency would close all of its international offices and prepare to shift its foreign operations to the State Department in order to focus on the backlog. Citizenship and Immigration Services had worked abroad to reunite families, oversee international adoptions, and process requests for U.S. travel for humanitarian emergencies, military members serving overseas and permanent residents seeking to return. Cissna has also overseen new public charge rules penalizing immigrants who use public benefits and their U.S.-citizen children. Those proposed changes drew hundreds of thousands of public comments, which the agency is required by law to review. Stephen Miller, Trumps domestic policy advisor and an immigration hardliner, has been frustrated with Cissna for what he viewed as foot-dragging on implementing the public charge rule and other proposals. As near-record numbers of asylum seekers and Central American families continue to arrive at the U.S.-Mexico border, Trump critics and supporters alike fear that Miller may not yet be through with a kind of hit list to clean house at Homeland Security. The department, created to ensure domestic security, has dozens of leadership vacancies, in addition to the handful of top officials serving in an acting capacity. Cissna avoided the first round of firings after key Republican senators came to his defense. McConnell has made clear he will block Cuccinelli from any position requiring Senate confirmation. In 2014, Cuccinelli, a former Virginia attorney general, backed an effort to defeat GOP Senate incumbents and called for McConnell to step down. He also sought to peel delegates away from Trump at the Republican National Convention in 2016, even throwing his ID badge on the convention floor to protest Trumps nomination. At the time, he was working on behalf of Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas. In announcing in March that USCIS would close its international offices, Cissna wrote in a memo to agency staffers obtained by The Times: Change can be difficult and can cause consternation. molly.otoole@latimes.com Twitter: @mollymotoole The Supreme Court handed down its first abortion decision of the year on Tuesday, with a mixed result that clearly signaled the conservative majority is not ready to reconsider the right to abortion set in Roe vs. Wade. By a 7-2 vote, the justices upheld an unusual provision of an Indiana law that requires clinics to bury or cremate the remains of a fetus. This mostly symbolic rule does not violate a womans right to choose abortion or put an undue burden on those who do so, the justices said in a brief, unsigned opinion. At the same time, the court, without a dissent, rejected the states effort to revive a significant restriction on abortion. The justices left in place lower court rulings that blocked an Indiana law that would make it illegal for women to end a pregnancy because of the race or gender of the fetus or if they received a diagnosis of Down syndrome. Since Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh won confirmation, social conservatives have hoped -- and many liberals have feared that the high court with two appointees of President Trump would move to overturn the 1973 Roe decision, or at least significantly limit abortion rights. With their eyes on that possibility, Republican lawmakers in at least a half-dozen conservative states have enacted abortion bans this year. Advertisement But Tuesdays outcome, after weeks of internal debate, suggests that the justices are inclined to move slowly and cautiously on the abortion issue and that Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and his fellow conservatives are not ready to directly confront abortion rights, at least during a presidential election year. Had the high court agreed to hear the Indiana case, it would have been argued in the fall and decided by June 2020. The decision not to hear Indianas appeal provides further evidence that the justices will not be eager to consider the even more sweeping abortion bans recently adopted by Alabama and other conservative states. The spotlight has been on Kavanaugh. He replaced Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, who had joined with the courts liberals, starting in 1992, to uphold the right to abortion. Neither Kavanaugh nor Justice Neil M. Gorsuch wrote separately on Tuesday in favor of hearing the Indiana case. Social conservatives suffered a second setback on Tuesday, on another controversial issue the treatment of transgender individuals. The justices refused to hear a right-to-privacy challenge to the decision by a Pennsylvania school district that allowed a transgender student to use the boys locker room. Lawyers for the Alliance Defending Freedom sued on behalf of a high school boy who said he felt embarrassed about possibly seeing the other student in his underwear. Two lower courts rejected the suit, and the justices said they would not hear the case of Doe vs. Boyertown Area School District. Asaf Orr, an attorney for the Transgender Youth Project, called the courts action a major victory for transgender youth and their families. The vast majority of people in this country support equal treatment of all students, including those who are transgender, Orr said. Since early January, the justices had debated Indianas appeal in Box vs. Planned Parenthood during their weekly conferences. Only four justices would have needed to vote to grant review of Indianas appeal for the court to hear arguments on it. Instead, the justices denied the states case with no registered dissents. At the same time, the justices voted 7-2 to uphold the fetal-remains part of Indianas law, an issue they had not previously ruled on. Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor dissented. In upholding that portion of the law, the justices in the majority said that states can legitimately regulate the burial of fetal remains. But they noted that their ruling did not alter previous decisions on whether state efforts to limit abortion itself amount to an undue burden on a womans right to choose to end a pregnancy. The fetal-remains law does not implicate our cases applying the undue burden test to abortion regulations, they wrote. Lower courts had struck down Indianas law as unconstitutional under Roe vs. Wade. Under that decision, a woman and her doctor, not the state, have the right to choose whether to end an early or midterm pregnancy. The Indiana law, adopted in 2016 and signed by then-Gov. Mike Pence, sought to prohibit abortions entirely in some situations. Its non-discrimination provision said Indiana does not allow a fetus to be aborted solely because of the fetuss race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, or diagnosis or potential diagnosis of the fetus having Down syndrome or any other disability. The law had a narrow exemption for a lethal condition that will with reasonable certainty result in the death of the child not more than three months after the childs birth. A federal judge in Indiana and the U.S. 7th Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago blocked the entire law from taking effect and ruled it was unconstitutional, saying that the nondiscrimination provision violated Roe vs. Wade and that the fetal-remains part of the law had no legitimate purpose. Last year, the 7th Circuit split 4-4 on whether to reconsider that ruling. The dissenters included Judges Amy Coney Barrett from Indiana and Diane Sykes from Wisconsin, both of whom were considered by Trump for a Supreme Court nomination. Indiana appealed to the Supreme Court in October, a week after Kavanaugh was sworn in. In siding with the the lower courts on the main part of the law, the justices wrote that the decision not to hear Indianas appeal expresses no view on the merits of the issue, whether Indiana may prohibit the knowing provision of sex-, race- and disability-selective abortions by abortion providers. That issue has so far only been considered by one appellate court, the 7th Circuit, and the justices said they would wait until other appeals courts have looked at similar laws before jumping in to consider it. Justice Clarence Thomas, writing for himself, said in a 20-page opinion that the court will soon need to confront the constitutionality of laws like Indianas because of the potential for abortion to become a tool of eugenic manipulation. From the beginning, birth control and abortion were promoted as a means of effectuating eugenics, he wrote, in an unusual, lengthy attack on early supporters of womens access to contraception and abortion. ACLU lawyers who had sued to block the Indiana law called the outcome a mixed ruling. The high court let another unwarranted restriction on abortion stand. While the ruling is limited, the law is part of a larger trend of state laws designed to stigmatize and drive abortion care of out of reach, said Jennifer Dalven, director of the ACLUs Reproductive Freedom Project. An antiabortion group, Students for Life of America, said the court got it half-right in the Indiana case. The justices got it right that aborted infants need to be buried and cremated respectfully as they are human beings, not trash, said Kristan Hawkins, the groups president. Carol Tobias, president of the National Right to Life Committee, said her group applauds Justice Thomas for using this opportunity to expose Planned Parenthoods eugenic legacy and for highlighting the need to protect unborn children from being exterminated based on their race, sex or level of disability. The justices are still likely to consider some aspects of abortion law in the months ahead. This month, the court has been considering another appeal from Indiana. This one seeks to revive a regulation that would require women to undergo an ultrasound test and then wait at least 18 hours before having an abortion. The 7th Circuit blocked that law on the grounds it would put an undue burden on low-income women who had to travel hours to reach an abortion facility and stay there for two days. The justices are likely to take up a Louisiana law that would require abortion facilities to have a doctor on their staff who has admitting privileges at a nearby hospital. In February, the court, with Chief Justice Roberts in the majority, issued a 5-4 order to block that law from taking effect while the high court weighs an appeal. The justices seem likely not to grant review of that case, June Medical Services vs. Gee, until the fall. That, in turn, means a decision would probably not come before June 2020. david.savage@latimes.com Twitter: DavidGSavage The Supreme Court will decide whether the family of a Mexican teenager who was shot to death by an American border agent can sue for damages in U.S. courts. The justices said Tuesday that they will hear arguments next term in a case involving an agent who fired shots across the U.S.-Mexico border that killed 15-year-old Sergio Adrian Hernandez Guereca. The shooting occurred in 2010 on the border between El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. The U.S. Border Patrol agent says he fired his gun because he was being attacked by people throwing rocks on the Mexican side of the border. The Supreme Court heard arguments in the case in 2017. It previously sent the case back to a lower court for additional proceedings. Advertisement READ MORE: Supreme Court to decide whether U.S. Border Patrol agent can be sued for shooting Mexican teenager Three Eagle Scouts were recognized for outstanding achievements last Thursday during a banquet at the Mormon Church in Burbank. The honorees belong to the Verdugo Hills Council of the Boy Scouts of America, whose members are from Glendale, La Crescenta, Burbank and parts of Los Angeles. Liam Paul McKenna, a Burbank resident and an eighth-grader at St. Finbar School, received the Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams Award for conducting an outstanding Eagle Scout project. He worked with the city of Burbank, as part of Burbanks Host City program, to help coordinate a send-off for the athletes and staff representing Zimbabwe and Botswana, who went on to participate in the Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles. He raised funds to purchase special souvenirs for the athletes and, through his promotional activities, packed the send-off party with guests. Mayor Bob Frutos attended the banquet to present Liam a certificate for his contributions to the program. Liam joined Cub Scout Pack 219 in 2007. He earned his Arrow of Light in April 2012. In the spring of 2012, Liam was a founding member of Boy Scout Troop 219, sponsored by the Knights of Columbus No. 3472, called the Cabrini Knights. David Geisen, of Burbank, received the National Eagle Scout Assn.'s Outstanding Eagle Award. (Photo by Joyce Rudolph) As a Boy Scout, Liam has been awarded the United States Heritage Award-Gold Medal, International Catholic Awareness Medallion and Messengers of Peace Award. In the fall of 2013, Liam was elected to the Order of Arrow, the honor society of the Boy Scouts of America. He became a Brotherhood member in 2014. In addition, Liam, along with his classmates, started a coat drive, which has evolved to include St. Finbar School, St. Finbar Parish, Knights of Columbus and Boy Scout Troop 219. After four years, 890 coats have been sent to the children living on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. Also during the evening, Ron Sowers of La Crescenta and David Geisen of Burbank received the National Eagle Scout Assn.'s Distinguished Eagle Award. The honor is given to Eagle Scouts who continue providing outstanding contributions to Scouting and their community as adults. Geisen came through the Verdugo Hills Council from Cub Scouts to Boys Scouts. He and his brother, Tom, were among the five original members of Boy Scout Troop 210 in Burbank. He earned his Eagle Scout award in 1982. Geisen then served as assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 210 for more than eight years and was also assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 233, which served children with special needs. He serves on the executive board of the Verdugo Hills Council and has been chairman of the Friends of Silver Fir Committee since 2000. The committee oversees maintenance and operation of Camp Silver Fir at Huntington Lake, which is one of two camps owned by the council. During his Scouting career, Sowers has earned five palms and was a member of the Order of the Arrow and Knights of Dunamis. He also spent four summers working at the Lake Arrowhead Scout Camps, starting as dining hall steward and teaching Scouting skills and then rowing and canoeing. Optimists honor five police employees From the officers who patrol the streets to those who serve behind the scenes, the Magnolia Park Optimists Club recognized five employees from the Burbank Police Department. They were applauded by members and their families during the Respect for Law dinner program held recently at the Elks Lodge in Burbank. This award is so little thank you for all they do. God bless them for all they do! said Doreen Wydra, Optimist president. We should even do this more. Police Chief Scott LaChasse served as master of ceremonies and told the audience what makes the department a success is teamwork. And thats the approach we take at the Burbank Police Department, he said. We stay together, work together and prosper together and it is truly a team and I think the entire community benefits from the team effort of the department. Adam Baumgarten received the Detective of the Year honor. He is a Burbank native and graduate of John Burroughs High School. He joined the Burbank Police Department in 2005 and has served as a patrol officer and was a member of the Crime Impact Team and Gang Enforcement Team. He was promoted to detective in 2013 and is considered highly proactive in the enforcement of crimes involving gangs. Michele Larson was named the Non-Sworn Employee of the Year for the second time. She first received the honor in 2009. She joined the Burbank Police Department in 1992 and over the years has served as communications operator, data entry operator, police technician, network systems analyst I and network analyst II. In July 2004, she was assigned to the citys information technology department and returned to the police department in November 2007 as a crime analyst. Police officer Cindy Guillen was named Co-Officer of the Year. She became a police officer in 2000 and has worked the park detail in addition to being a defensive tactics instructor and Explorer adviser. She also served as a community resource officer from 2011 to 2015. Guillen is the contact person for neighbor disputes and mediation with the city attorney and other law enforcement offices. She is the public information officer for the Spanish-speaking media. The other Co-Officer of the Year is police officer Joshua Kendrick. He joined the Burbank Police Department as a recruit in January 2006 and became a police officer in June 2006. In 2011, he started as a community resource officer, performing such duties as recruitment, press information including social media, conducting the Community Academy, handling community complaints and event organizing for National Night Out, Police-Fire Service Day, Coffee with a Cop and Shop with a Cop. John Kemmerer was named the Police Department Volunteer of the Year. In 2015 alone, he logged 548 volunteer hours. He became a Burbank Police Department Volunteer in 2007 and has spent most of his volunteer time at the front counter helping the public. He also volunteers at the Burbank Animal Shelter, the Hoof & Woof Walk to benefit the K-9 and mounted police units and the Baker to Vegas Race. Recently, he began training new police department volunteers. -- JOYCE RUDOLPH can be reached at rudolphjoyce10@gmail.com. A barbershop accused of denying service to a transgender male will, as part of a settlement of a lawsuit filed by the man, remove potentially discriminatory advertising from its website and its locations in Long Beach, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach and Australia. The lawsuit, filed in March, claimed that employees at the Long Beach location of Hawleywoods Barber Shop & Shaving Parlor denied service to Rose Trevis, saying, We dont cut womens hair. Hawleywoods website formerly described the shop as a mens sanctuary and included the statement, You all know how distracting a woman can be, and who wants a straight-razor shave with a buxom blonde in the joint? The website currently reads: Hawleywoods Barber Shop attracts people from all walks of life. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Frederick Shaller issued an injunction Aug. 16 that barred Hawleywoods from denying service based on gender or perceived gender, according to the settlement, which was reached Friday. As part of the settlement, Hawleywoods also agreed to pay damages and attorney fees. Trevis attorney, Gloria Allred, and Hawleywoods attorney, Paul Sink, declined to reveal the amount of the payment. Allred said Tuesday that her client is happy the lawsuit is over. Its 2016, Allred said. That a business in California would so blatantly discriminate both by excluding women from their service and in their advertising in such a stereotypical manner its unacceptable. Sink said Tuesday that the decision to settle the case was not an admission of wrongdoing on Hawleywoods part. Sometimes its more economically feasible to settle than to fight, he said. According to the lawsuit, Trevis and his female domestic partner walked by Hawleywoods in Long Beach and Trevis decided to get a haircut. A barber told Trevis he would need an appointment, but when Trevis asked to make one, the barber said the shop didnt cut womens hair, according to the lawsuit. Who says Im a woman? Trevis said. According to the suit, another employee looked Trevis up and down and said, We dont cut womens hair. Though Trevis said he was denied service, Sink said there were simply no immediate openings that day. They booked her for the next day, Sink said. She never showed. Sink also said his clients were confused as to who was requesting service. It was a mix-up on whose hair was going to get cut, Sink said. "[Trevis] came in with a female friend who had long hair, and my clients thought they were talking about the long-haired woman. Theyre not beauticians. They dont know how to cut womens hair. Trevis said in a statement Monday that he was upset by the shops treatment of him. I never would have thought Id experience the humiliation of being discriminated against as a transgender man, he said. What began as an unfortunate event has ended in justice. Sink said the shop wants to move forward. Theyre still going to cater to men, he said. But if you want a mans haircut, women can get it. Fernandez is a Daily Pilot staff writer. Evans writes for the Los Angeles Times. Inspectors say they have identified fugitive emissions from a 2-million-barrel crude oil tanker as a culprit in periodic pungent odors that have offended coastal residents and whose source has eluded detection for years. The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a violation notice last week in Long Beach to Nave Photon, a tanker that sails under the Hong Kong flag and transports crude oil to the United States from the Middle East. The agency started tracking the ship Oct. 26 after receiving complaints of petroleum-like odors in Long Beach downwind from where Nave Photon was docked. The AQMD has received more than 2,000 complaints since the beginning of 2016 from residents of Long Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Seal Beach and Costa Mesa about odors similar to chemicals, gas or rotten eggs. Gas images showed vapor leaks coming from the vessel, prompting an onboard inspection by the AQMD on Nov. 3 at a terminal where the ship was berthed at the Port of Long Beach, the agency said. The AQMD said inspectors using hydrocarbon detection devices and gas-imaging cameras found that seven of 10 inspected pressure release devices on Nave Photon were leaking hydrocarbon vapors well in excess of the agencys limits. On Nov. 6, the AQMD issued a violation notice to GAC North America, the Long Beach-based shipping agent for the tanker. Peter Moerman, GACs vessel manager for Nave Photon, was not immediately available for comment Monday. Huntington Beach City Councilman Patrick Brenden said Monday that he was excited that the AQMD went public in pinpointing a source of the odor problem. The smell has generated speculation and reports that the cause could be anything from gas leaks to oil rigs to natural occurrences offshore. Brenden, who is part of the citys Coastal Area Odors Committee, said he visited Washington, D.C., earlier this year to collaborate with the Environmental Protection Agency and the Coast Guard to investigate the issue. Brenden said he hopes the AQMD will continue investigating and issuing citations to encourage shipping companies to monitor their pressure release valves. For the past two years we have devoted extensive resources to finding the sources of periodic foul odors in Long Beach, Seal Beach and Huntington Beach, said Wayne Nastri, AQMD executive officer. The agency partnered with the fire departments in those cities to train their personnel to collect air samples when residents report odors. Analysis of those samples showed higher levels of chemical compounds indicative of an odor from crude oil or unprocessed natural gas, the agency said. The compounds included several hydrocarbons and hydrogen sulfide, the agency said. Crude oil contains dissolved hydrocarbon and sulfur gases that can be released to the atmosphere if not properly contained. Hydrocarbon levels in the majority of the air samples were not expected to cause serious health problems, the AQMD said. However, the agency acknowledged the odors can have temporary health effects such as headaches and dizziness, which some residents have reported. Huntington Beach officials have maintained that the foul smell is an irritant but not an immediate threat to health. julia.sclafani@latimes.com The 4th Capital State-owned Enterprise (SOE) Open Day will kick off on June 2 with 48 enterprises offering 126 open day activities, including 61 new visiting locations, 18 places outside Beijing, and one destination in Moscow, Russia. Jin Qiuhong, deputy Party secretary general and deputy director of State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of People's Government of Beijing Municipality, said the participating SOEs will closely center on the theme of celebrating China's 70th anniversary. They will display the nation's achievements and the changes of SOEs and people's lives in the past 70 years. A number of special exhibitions will be open to the public: a "70th Anniversary of the Founding of New China" photo exhibition in Bijie Electric Machinery, special exhibitions of China's 70th anniversary and 350th anniversary of Wang Zhihe brand at Beijing Sufu Musem, etc. In total, 28 time-honored brands and museums will display Beijing's SOE culture. According to Jin, this year's Capital SOE Open Day will highlight the role of SOEs in major events and key projects, such as the upcoming 2022 Winter Olympics, Beijing's new airport, and the city's sub-center. For instance, China Construction First Group Corporation Limited and Beijing State-owned Assets Management Co. will host visitors to the Winter Olympics curling stadium reconstruction project at the National Aquatics Center. Jin said that 32 open day activities are closely related to people's daily lives. One such event will be a DIY bakery activity offered by Beijing Yiqing Food, where visitors can enjoy unlimited bottles of Beibingyang soda water. Beijing Fashion Education Platform, which is affiliated with Beijing Fashion Holdings, will hold hands-on experience projects such as painting, calligraphy, dancing, go, and intangible cultural heritage handcraft for visitors to appreciate the combination of history and innovation in Beijing's fashion culture and arts industry. People living in Bozhou, Anhui province, may visit a key water plant in the South-to-North Water Diversion Project, which provides drinking water to 5 million people in the city. Participating SOEs will also display their latest achievements in promoting technological innovation, optimizing industrial layout, and accelerating industrial transformation and upgrading. From January to April this year, SOEs managed by the city's municipal government achieved a total revenue of 495.91 billion yuan, registering a year-on-year growth of 11.3%; a total profit of 30 billion yuan, an increase of 23.8%. The SOEs paid taxes and fees totaling 53.32 billion yuan, an increase of 15.4%. The total assets of these SOEs have exceeded 5 trillion yuan, 3.16 times that of the end of 2010, achieving the goal of 4.7 trillion yuan two years ahead of schedule. One of the three people killed early Thursday when a car slammed into the back of their vehicle in Huntington Beach was a teenager set to graduate from Centennial High School in Las Vegas in June, according to his family. The family identified him as A.J. Rossi, who was in Southern California with the other victims for spring break, investigators said. Coroners officials have not publicly identified the other victims, who authorities say also were young Las Vegas residents. Rossis family set up a GoFundMe page to cover his funeral expenses. The page had raised more than $22,000 by Friday evening. It described him as always being the center of attention, with a smile that lit up every single room that he walked into. In fact, A.J. just won the Best Smile superlative for his senior class, the page reads. After high school, A.J. had plans to attend college at College of Southern Nevada this fall. A.J. had a whole life ahead of him. Bani Duarte, 27, of San Clemente was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, police said. (Courtesy of Huntington Beach Police Department ) The driver of the other car, Bani Duarte of San Clemente, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. Duarte, 27, who is listed in jail records as a receptionist, was booked into Orange County Jail in Santa Ana with bail set at $100,000. She has not been charged, according to the Orange County district attorneys office, which is reviewing the case. Huntington Beach police responded at 1:08 a.m. Thursday to a report of a crash involving two vehicles at Pacific Coast Highway and Magnolia Street. A Toyota was on fire when officers arrived, Officer Angela Bennett said. Bennett said a Hyundai Sonata traveling north on PCH struck the Toyota, which was stopped at a red light at the intersection with Magnolia. Three people in the Toyota were killed. A passenger who was able to get out of the car was taken to a hospital with unknown injuries. Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact Huntington Beach police accident investigator Joshua Page at (714) 536-5670. KTLA contributed to this report. hannah.fry@latimes.com Twitter: @HannahFryTCN Many of the millions of tourists who flock to Laguna Beach are there to see art not to be the art. But local photographer Jamie Eisman is turning the lens around on them. Hes taken to snapping pictures of the art colonys visitors in their natural surroundings: restaurants, crosswalks, Main Beach. I look for people doing people things, said the 71-year-old street photographer. In a town saturated by out-of-towners, many locals view the peak summer tourist season either with anticipation or dread. Eisman, a Philadelphia native and recent Laguna transplant, finds inspiration from the throngs of tourists lounging at the beach, hauling beach paraphernalia through downtown or just standing at an intersection looking confused. It runs the whole gamut of human experience. You see people fighting, you see people loving, you see people frustrated and anxious and Oh my God, where am I going to park? he said. Its just the daily drama. And when we get to look at it from the other side, as locals, it brings out emotions that were not always proud of. Eisman will admit he has screamed and yelled when he couldnt find a parking spot in town. When he moved to Laguna Beach in October 2017, he spent a few months stewing. For a person who avoids Disneyland because of the crowds, Eisman at first was shocked at the number of people flooding Lagunas streets. Then came annoyance no parking, miles of traffic, rude pedestrians. Then came amusement. And when we get to look at it from the other side, as locals, it brings out emotions that were not always proud of. Jamie Eisman And then photos. Thousands of them. Its just the lifeblood of the town. This is Lagunas circulatory system, Eisman said of tourism. We wouldnt exist as we are without them; we would be something else. We would be an art colony with a couple of thousand artists in town, and what good is it if nobody sees it? About 6 million tourists come to Laguna Beach each year, according to a study commissioned in 2016 by Visit Laguna Beach, the citys visitors bureau. Visitor spending topped $556.6 million that year. Though Eisman may still get peeved at not getting a seat in his favorite restaurant, hes developed a more laid-back approach to Lagunas visitors. You gotta be patient and embrace it, and its all good, he said. Its all part of the overall human drama. I dont hate them, I dont love them. They are a necessary part of keeping Laguna running. Eismans tourist watching began before moving to Laguna Beach, during a trip to Rome in 2016 as you guessed it a tourist. While sightseeing at the Colosseum, he couldnt help but notice the invasion of the selfie stick. He snapped a few hundred photos of other tourists on that trip. He especially loved shots of people primping in front of their cameras. Its like these people are dancing like nobodys watching, and I love it theyre being themselves, Eisman said. Theyre not self-conscious, theyre looking ridiculous. Eisman said he always tries to keep a low profile when hes a camera-toting traveler. Im acutely aware of myself as a tourist, he said. I dont particularly like or embrace the idea, but I accept it as a necessary evil. Eisman was inspired to do a series of tourist photos in Laguna Beach after he met Sandra Jones Campbell, a painter whose exhibits at Lagunas Festival of Arts and Pacific Edge Gallery show scenes of people eating, drinking, smoking and playing. Her depiction of the everyday human experience persuaded Eisman to take on the tourist idea. Campbell, a Laguna resident of 32 years, said Eismans work is totally off the wall. She said she cant remember another local artist who has chosen tourists as an art subject. His work captures a focal point of a moment in time, she said. Its a statement of what goes on here, Campbell said. Its like a wonderful migration of people coming in here to go to the beach, to sit in the water. And then they leave again they go out of the canyon in different directions. Eisman took a circuitous route to Laguna Beach. He began his artistic trade studying painting at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts but switched to photography when he realized he could say more with a camera than a paintbrush. His photography took him through the advertising industry, where he shot products and fashion, and then to medicine, where he photographed for medical textbooks. He retired from the non-governmental organization Rivers of the World, where he worked for about eight years shooting in other countries. Street photography has challenged him to just let it happen and relinquish some of the control he was accustomed to in his past work. Street photography is a whole radical departure for someone who really cut his teeth in the studio, Eisman said. The control that you have in the studio that you dont have on the street is about as far diametrically opposed as you can get. So far, Eisman said, he has posted only snippets of the tourist series to a local Facebook page. He anticipates getting the photos into a gallery once he builds enough of a collection. Until then, hes displaying a few sunset photos at the LagunaArt.com Gallery on North Coast Highway. Why sunsets? Because the tourists seem to like them, he said. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. Big Canyon Country Club welcomed 100 fashion-forward women who belong to a fundraising auxiliary benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire (BBBS) to an annual spring luncheon. The dedicated women are known as the Angelitos de Oro. Since its founding in 1961, this powerful confederation has raised some $7 million in support of youth mentoring in Southern California. Indeed, the name of the group is appropriate. They are angels, and they know how to bring in the gold. The 2019 gathering was co-chaired with style by Aimee Porter and Georgina Jacobson. Joining the duo was the lovely Karen Taylor, who presides over Angelitos as president. Taylor welcomed the Angelitos and their guests, sharing the news of the 2018 fundraising tally $320,000 donated to BBBS. Since it does take a village, Taylor, Porter and Jacobson were joined by some serious member-donors who made the enormous fundraising success a reality. Among the generous were Carole Pickup and daughter-in-law Natalie Pickup, Alex Miller, Teri Elliot, Gigi Spragins, Marilyn Wooten, Susie Finney, Kathy Harrison and Kris Peyton. For the past several years, Angelitos focus has been to support the high school Bigs Program, where high school students are matched with elementary school Littles to provide one-on-one weekly peer support, friendship and encouragement. Several years ago, the Angelitos Award was born, and it is awarded to two exceptional young people who are dedicated and very worthy Bigs. This year Nancy Mendez and Alexis Bustillos were selected as the recipients. They are outstanding young people whose lives have been enriched and who in turn have enriched the lives of other young people because of the guidance of BBBS. Sloane Kean, chief executive of the largest BBBS agency in California, which is also the second largest in the country, recognized her incredible staff members, who assist with all programming for the more than 4000 children the agency serves annually. Marilyn Wooten, Judy Montgomery, Carole Pickup and Natalie Pickup attend the fundraiser. (Photo by Ann Chatillon) Coming in the fall of 2019, Angelitos de Oro, in conjunction with South Coast Plaza, will once again present Card Week. The amazing shopping opportunity is produced in cooperation with many South Coast Plaza boutiques, restaurants and major department stores offering discounts to card holders doing a bit of pre-holiday shopping, while Angelitos raises major funds from the sale of its $60 Angelitos Card. This year Molly McCray and Cari Young will chair the massive adventure taking place Oct. 3 through 9 at the shopping center. Wine, Women & Shoes Olive Crest, standing tall for strong families and safe kids, held an unusual dinner fundraiser themed Wine, Women & Shoes, a shopping event that unfolded at The Hilton Waterfront Resort in Huntington Beach. A crowd of some 400 ladies stepped up to spend for Olive Crest. Husbands, boyfriends and 22 male shoe representatives witnessed the frenzy in the Hilton ballroom, raising over $170,000 for Olive Crest. Chaired by Carrie Brock with devoted assistance from committee chairs Gabriella Ayerst, Kristina Morales, Erica Sylvia, Anna Murphy-Dueling, Kelly Brown, Lori Feeney and Patty Ekstrom, the event featured actress Danica McKellar as mistress of ceremonies. She is well-known for her long-running role on TVs The Wonder Years and more recently for recurring roles in movies made for The Hallmark Channel. O.C. Olive Crest trustee and president Randy Rider welcomed the exuberant shoppers. An address from Olive Crest Executive Director Kerri Dunkelberger on the work of the organization transforming the lives of abused and neglected children and their families followed. Guest speaker Jeff Judy shared his personal journey with wife, Amy, and their adoption of four children, taking them out of the foster care system (after already having four of their own). Spotted in the crowd were donors Brent and Jay Engstrom, Dawn Stark, Telma Di Badj, Suzanne Millhollen, Anna Harris and Rochelle Bennett. To learn more visit OliveCrest.org. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. B.W. COOK is editor of the Bay Window, the official publication of the Balboa Bay Club in Newport Beach. I keep hoping someone will ask me to give a graduation speech, and of course it will never happen, but if they did this year, this is what I would say: OK kids, the good news is that you are graduating, and the bad news is that you are now the adults in the room. I know its a little early. After all, you havent even gotten your cap and gown yet. You havent signed those teary goodbyes and promises to keep in touch. And you still have yet to graduate. You have plans. Most of you have big plans. You have new people to meet, new places to go and experiences you have never even imagined. And the mess we adults have caused in the world is now on you. Its on you because we have clearly and almost without regret, messed it up really messed it up. I am not going to depress you by listing all the things we adults have screwed up, but just know that you have a ton to do. What is said about you by the same adults that have misread, misunderstood and completely and utterly mismanaged the world, is that you are careful, secretive and want to be safe. They also say that you are more like the generation who grew up in the 50s than any other. Remember the people who are pontificating about you and even naming you are the very people who have gotten everything wrong so far. To this I am going to quote Emma Gonzalez, who famously said, We call B.S.! You are now to be known as Generation Z, and there are 61 million of you guys. Thats you, and you Z guys are going to save the world with your wisdom and guts. Kids have actually been saving us from ourselves for a long time. In 1963, 1,000 kids left school and gathered at the Sixth Street Baptist Church to march down the street in Birmingham to protest racism. They were arrested, and the next day hundreds more joined them and they were beaten, blasted by fire hoses, clubbed by police and attacked by dogs. Their march was called the Childrens Crusade, and those children lead the way to Civil Rights. And it was the unforgettable, brave, bold, brilliant kids from Parkland, Fla., who picked themselves up from the horrifying killings at their school and showed us what to do. They cried, swore and organized. They didnt sleep. They didnt whine. They held a rally two days after the killings. They went to Florida Legislature to lobby against guns. They organized the March for Our Lives in our nations capital. About 700,000 people marched that day. Class of 2019, these are your people. These kids are Generation Z, your generation. Dont let anyone ever tell you that your generation is afraid or careful. Your generation is brave and smart and strong! You are the best of us, the best we have ever been. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. Retired teacher Sandy Asper lives in Newport Beach. We all want our kids to be good people kind, principled, fair-minded citizens who treat others with dignity and respect. But who is responsible for instilling those values in them? Parents, certainly. The community at large. Leaders from a variety of fields. We also decided a long time ago that schools should carry a good deal of that weight. I hope the school and students have got the message: Anne Franks stepsister meets in Newport with students involved in swastika party Its accepted thinking that schools should teach students not just the difference between an acute and an obtuse angle, or what the War of 1812 was really about. We have agreed as a society that educators must also work to build character and promote ethical behavior among their students. As the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once wrote: We must remember that intelligence is not enough. Intelligence plus character that is the goal of true education. This core concept is so ingrained in our expectations that its actually part of Californias Education Code, which states that teachers should impress upon the minds of the pupils the principles of morality, truth, justice, patriotism, and the meaning of equality and human dignity. School district policies spell out similar responsibilities. By extension, when things go terribly wrong as they did when some local high school students gave a Nazi salute to plastic cups arranged into the shape of a swastika at an off-campus party in March public reaction includes apportioning a large share of the blame to schools. That holds true even when the egregious behavior occurs off campus. Full coverage of the scandal surrounding the student party where Nazi symbols were displayed and put on social media. This is a fair, if sometimes overstated, critique. Schools do generally promote qualities associated with good character, and they do include lessons about the Holocaust. But the disturbing swastika incident revealed serious shortcomings to the approach taken so far, and served as a giant wake-up call that we must not become complacent, that far more must be done. Indeed, recent events have illustrated what many of us already knew to be true that the deeply offensive behavior of the students at the party was not an isolated occurrence. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) reported that the U.S. Jewish community experienced near-historic levels of anti-Semitism last year, including a horrific attack that killed 11 at a Pittsburgh synagogue, and a surge in white supremacist propaganda throughout the nation. The trend has continued into this year, most tragically with yet another synagogue shooting, in Poway, that left one dead. The ADL has also identified several recent incidences of anti-Semitic behavior and messaging at schools in Orange County. Overtly racist messages involving Newport Harbor High students spur school district investigation I recently spoke with Newport-Mesa Unified officials about these issues and how the district can address the rise in acts of hate going forward. One key theme that emerged in our discussion is that schools need parents to be active, vigilant partners in fostering ethical behavior and in warding off unhealthy influences. Hate speech and intolerant attitudes are so prevalent online these days that kids are often exposed to virulent messaging without their parents knowledge, noted Sean Boulton, principal at Newport Harbor High School, where many of the students involved in the recent swastika incident attend. From a school perspective, were doing our part in trying to inform our students that anti-Semitism and bigotry is flat-out wrong, Boulton said. What weve realized is a missing component. Parents need to have that conversation with their kids. Parents need to be monitoring their kids social media accounts. This incident has taught me theres more good than evil in our community. The problem is theres a lot going on out there. You have to have that hard conversation with your own kid. Hate, bigotry, anti-Semitism talk to them about why its wrong. In addition, specific steps that Newport Harbor and other district schools are planning include: organizing a trip for students and staff to the Simon Wiesenthal Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles; sending teachers to anti-bias training; sending student representatives to ADL leadership training; on-campus anti-bias training by the ADL; and other campus-wide and classroom projects intended to promote kindness and ethical behavior. Kirk Bauermeister, Newport-Mesas executive director of secondary education, also noted that the district has formed a Human Relations Task Force to make recommendations, and he urged parents and other community members to come to the meetings and become involved. The task force will look into how do we create safe and inclusive schools, and how do we teach kindness to our kids? Where are the gaps? What can we do better? Bauermeister said. A schedule of task force meetings and workshops can be found on the districts website, and I urge everyone to become active participants. I plan on attending when possible, even though I no longer have students in the district. Theres no doubt that schools must play a vital role in shaping our youth into upstanding citizens who embrace tolerance and denounce hate and bigotry. But in order to succeed in this mission, we must all work together, looking not for where to assign blame but for ways to cooperate going forward in order to instill our most cherished values in our children. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. Patrice Apodaca is a former Los Angeles Times staff writer, and is the coauthor of A Boy Named Courage: A Surgeons Memoir of Apartheid. She lives in Newport Beach. What Glendale Unified Supt. Winfred Roberson Jr. described as a near-perfect project an exchange of the districts ailing headquarters with a developer for a newer, larger property was shot down 3-1 by the Glendale City Council on Tuesday. Developer Carmel Partners proposed a 207-unit residential development on several parcels across 2.39 acres a portion of a 3.42-acre site owned by Glendale Unified, including its 38,000-square-foot headquarters located at 223 N. Jackson St. that school officials said the district has outgrown. Also, the building, constructed in 1972, is in dire need of repairs, officials said. In return, Glendale Unified would have received a 116,000-square-foot building, constructed in 1984, and parking structure located at 425 E. Colorado St. It would have provided the district with a parent center and additional space to lease out that would have generated revenue for the school, according to Roberson. Daily High School, which is located next to the administration building, would have remained there under the proposal. Acknowledging that the Colorado Street building would support the districts needs, Councilman Ara Najarian, who voted against the project, said Carmels proposed project would blow our development standards out of the water, in terms of size and scale. Although Carmel had decreased the size of the project over time lowering it from five to four stories, reducing the units from 286 to 207 and adding a small public park Najarian and Councilwoman Paula Devine pointed out that it still exceeded many of the citys building regulations in terms of height, setbacks and density. We could set a precedent here that would totally devastate our neighborhoods, and I just dont want to do that, Devine said before voting against the project. Lone dissenter Mayor Zareh Sinanyan, who has four children attending Glendale Unified schools, said it was impossible to separate the well-being of the school system from the citys economic conditions. Glendale Unified officials estimate it will cost more than $40 million to renovate the districts existing administration building, which is not ADA-compliant, and provide adequate space and parking for district operations, according to its planning department. That money could come out of taxpayers pockets if the exchange was not approved, school officials said. The project would also have added 17 very-low-income or 24 low-income units to the area, furthering the City Councils collective goal of bringing affordable housing to the community, Sinanyan said. Councilman Vartan Gharpetian recused himself from the proceedings because his wife is on the districts school board, although he said the city attorney advised him that he would not have violated conflict-of-interest laws by participating. All present council members, except Sinanyan, called the affordable units, at 400 square feet each, too small. Last week, and the week before, [the council] was insisting that we are OK with tiny units as long as single, elderly, low-income individuals could reside there, Sinanyan said. We said if folks want to create more low-income units at the expense of their size, thats something we want to encourage, he added. Lasting nearly six hours and drawing more than 75 public speakers, the meeting on Tuesday brought together people on both sides of the issue: some neighbors who saw the proposed project as overdevelopment and school officials, employees and parents who thought the benefits to approximately 26,000 students outweighed other concerns. Tamara OConnor, co-owner of a five-unit apartment building near the administration offices, said that while it seemed like a win-win for the district and developer, its the neighborhood residents who would have to live with the aftermath of the proposed development and all the density that it brings, while the entities who dreamed up the plan get to walk away. Community resistance to multifamily projects is common, but it doesnt change the fact that an increasing population means more units must inevitably be built, said Neda Farid-Farhoumand, executive vice president of the Glendale Council PTA. So, the issue isnt whether these units get built, but how they get built, she said. We cannot let exaggerated fears and misconceptions get in the way of progress. The vote represents a setback for Glendale Unified, which has sought to pursue a property exchange for nearly a decade. The property on Colorado Street was initially presented to the school board in June 2017 following discussion by school board members to relocate the administration offices. District officials have not yet decided what the next step will be, according to Marge Rader, Glendale Unifieds administrative secretary said. lila.seidman@latimes.com Twitter: @lila_seidman Onnik Mehrabian, a business owner living in Glendale, remembers the first day he came to the United States from Iran with his wife Armineh in 1978. Hes even memorized the flight number, airline and exact time he arrived to Los Angeles International Airport, en route to a life in Glendale. Mehrabian was 26 and worked at a car rental agency in Iran when he emigrated. I couldnt sleep the first night, Mehrabian said. I was in America, and I was so excited. After almost 40 years as a business owner and property investor, Mehrabian now wants to fill a seat on the City Council as a way of giving back. Join the conversation on Facebook >> Mehrabian is the current owner of Cars 911, a car dealership in the Glassell Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. The same location formerly housed Glendale Kia, which he ran for more than 20 years before selling it in 2014. Mehrabian is a member of the L.A. County Small Business Commission and is a reserve deputy sheriff with the county. He also was on Glendales Traffic Commission for four years. Three signature issues are front and center on Mehrabians website and campaign mailers: government transparency, better schools and the support of local businesses. I would start by walking the streets to see what businesses, in my mind, are falling apart. I can give them a chance to tell me exactly what is happening, what they need and what I can do for them, Mehrabian said. I will give them a suggestion and if I dont know how to do it, Ill ask someone [who does]. One of Mehrabians ideas for government accessibility is opening a separate location to help residents better understand local laws and educate them on how to approach city government with any issues they may have. Mehrabian said hed like to gather resources, such as high-end friends, who could provide forms of financial aid to college freshmen in the area struggling to make it through schools. Im going to ask them to give [financial aid] to kids that are living in Glendale, Mehrabian said. Mehrabian is also advocating for more parks and open spaces. In 2014, Mehrabian was fined $22,500 by the Los Angeles Ethics Commission for failing to disclose the purchase of two large signs displayed on the Golden State (5) Freeway supporting the 2013 reelection campaign of former L.A. City Atty. Carmen Trutanich. Mehrabian said of the fine that he was trying to support Trutanich, who is a close family friend. Also, according to the L.A. County Assessors office, Mehrabian hasnt paid taxes on a piece of property where a church is located in Glendale since 2014. He said the property is being refinanced and the back taxes will be covered in no more than a month. -- Jeff Landa, jeff.landa@latimes.com Twitter: @JeffLanda Memorial Day is often marked with barbecues, flash sales and good times with friends and family. Their loss allows us to do that, state Sen. Anthony Portantino (D-La Canada Flintirdge) said of fallen men and women of the armed forces during the city of Glendales annual ceremony to commemorate the holiday outside City Hall on Monday morning. Behind the speakers were permanent monuments featuring the names of Glendales own fallen military personnel, beginning with World War II. With streets closed around the event, an atypical quiet filled the air. With each name etched on stone there was a real human life behind that name, state Assemblywoman Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) said at the event sponsored by the patriotism committee of the Glendale Veterans Coalition. Keynote speaker Paul Raggio, a retired U.S. Army colonel and Glendale resident, outlined the lives of three diverse military personnel who died in the line of duty to illustrate that these fallen warriors truly represent the demographics of our country all races, all genders, all ethnicities, all religions and all defenders of the United States. Vietnam War veteran Mike Swan said after the ceremony that the speakers captured the spirit of the holiday, which originated with the decoration of soldiers graves following the Civil War of the 1860s. [To] remember the veterans who gave [their] all to our countrys freedom thats why were here, said Swan, who has attended the past six annual ceremonies in the city. Earlier in the morning, individuals who had served in the U.S. Navy, Army and Air Force presented a flag to the family of Roy Chiarot, a U.S. Navy Vietnam War veteran who passed away recently, at Two Strike Park in La Crescenta. His brother, WWII veteran Angelo Chiarot, was on hand to accept the flag. Roy Chiarot had been a member of American Legion Post 288, which has been co-sponsoring the annual event for years. VFW Post 1614 also co-sponsors the event. With American history encompassing three centuries of wars, the death toll of more than a million soldiers can be hard to grasp in a meaningful way, said Eugene Tattini, a retired lieutenant general with the U.S. Air Force who gave the keynote address. To make the figure relatable, Tattini focused on an individual: David Tiffany, a medic from Riverside, who died in Vietnam and was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the countrys second highest military award. Its nice to actually see the veterans from our community and be able to honor them, said Trevor Hall, 16, whose Boy Scout troop is sponsored by the local chapter of the American Legion. A separate Memorial Day ceremony was held at the Vietnam War Memorial on the corner of Ocean View Boulevard and Honolulu Avenue in Montrose earlier in the morning. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. In 2015, city officials told La Canada Imports owner Bill Kerimo theyd have to remove a pole sign for his business that had stood for 40 years in the public right of way. Erected on part of the property that fell under the citys responsibility, the sign presented a liability, the La Canada Flintridge City Council decreed. It also wasnt in keeping with the overall aesthetic vision for Foothill Boulevard businesses, which indicate a preference for low-profile monument signs over their pole-mounted predecessors. Kerimo claimed in a public hearing that losing the sign would harm his business and prevent new customers from seeing and patronizing his pizza shop and deli. If you guys want to remove this pole sign, I dont know whats going to happen to my business, honestly, he said at a May 18, 2015, meeting. Join the conversation on Facebook >> But the council voted 4-1 (Len Pieroni cast the dissenting vote) to have the sign removed. One year later, on June 16, 2016, a work crew demolished it and a small wall and hedge that surrounded it. A pole sign, wall and pilaster at La Canada Imports Pizza & Deli was removed last June. (Photo by Sara Cardine) Last month, to help make up for what he says has been a perceivable dip in business, Kerimo applied to have a new monument sign installed at on the property at 1537 Foothill Blvd, owned along with the adjacent 7-Eleven by landlord Lacy Park Real Estate Investment. Council members had encouraged Kerimo to collaborate with 7-Eleven about sharing their sign, grandfathered in by county officials in 1970, or building a new joint monument sign. The Imports owner said in a recent interview the space he was tentatively offered by his corporate neighbor was simply too small. They gave me 10 inches, he said of 7-Elevens proposal. For 10 inches, theres no reason for me to do that, so I went to the city to get my own sign. The overall design and lettering of Kerimos new monument sign was approved in a Jan. 19 meeting of the La Canada Flintridge Design Commission. City figures indicate the cost of submitting plans for a design review is about $780. The next step for Kerimo is to submit plans to the citys Building and Safety division, which will consider the proposed signs placement and construction, according to deputy development director Susan Koleda. Submission costs vary, but Koleda said a recent permit cost the applicant $719. Exterior illumination could require another permit at an additional cost. "(Then) theres a record of the permits and the process it went through, so 40 years from now when someone says, Is that in the public right of way? well know, Koleda said. Once permits are issued, the installation process is left up to the business owner, although the final project wont be signed off until an inspection of the work is done to ensure compliance to city standards, she added. -- Sara Cardine, sara.cardine@latimes.com Twitter: @SaraCardine MORE BUSINESS Weekend storms bring fresh snow to Mt. Waterman Ski Lifts Entrepreneur puts fashion forward Local hospital, nurses union agree on new contract U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) again is calling for racing to be halted at Santa Anita after three horses died in nine days. I once again call for an immediate moratorium on racing at Santa Anita, Feinstein said in a statement. We need a thorough investigation of practices and conditions at the track before any more races are held. There have been 26 horse deaths since the track started its meeting Dec. 26. Two of the last three deaths were unusual injuries not generally associated with breakdowns. One horse, Commander Coil, broke a shoulder while galloping, a very low-risk activity. The track had gone six weeks without a fatality before the 3-year-old gelding suffered the catastrophic injury. Spectacular Music, a 3-year-old gelding, was euthanized after an unusual pelvis injury while racing and Kochees, a 9-year-old gelding, died of a leg fracture after efforts to save him during surgery were unsuccessful Sunday. Advertisement There are only 12 more racing days at Santa Anita before Los Alamitos has a short meeting followed by the summer meeting at Del Mar. Closing day at Santa Anita is June 23. Racing returns to Arcadia on Sept. 26 for about a one-month meeting that concludes with the Breeders Cup. The California Horse Racing Board and L.A. County District Attorneys office are conducting a joint investigation into the deaths. In a hearing in Sacramento last week, Rick Baedeker, executive director of the CHRB, said the investigation should be finished in about four weeks. Baedeker has also said the reason for the increase in deaths may never be known. I believe we need to carefully review what medications horses are given, and under what circumstances as well as take a close look at the issue of overrunning horses, which may be contributing to deaths, Feinstein said. Tracks in the United States have significantly higher rates of death than tracks overseas. We need to determine what were doing wrong in this country and fix it. If we cant, we need to consider whether horse racing has a future here. Sign up for our horse racing newsletter Santa Anita has found itself on the good side of the spotlight on Tuesday when a leading animal rights group called on the country to adopt safety reforms currently being implemented in California. It comes two days after Santa Anita had its third horse death in nine days, which follows almost six weeks of racing and training without a fatality. Kathy Guillermo, senior vice president of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, called for the suspension of racing nationwide until reforms similar to those in place at Santa Anita and soon other California tracks are put in place. Guillermo singled out New York as having 15 horses die this year either racing or training. She said there have been 148 fatalities in New York over the past two years, which includes the three main New York Racing Assn. tracks plus smaller Finger Lakes. The calculation also includes fatalities that were non-exercise induced, but PETA concluded were caused by something that happened on the track. Advertisement An argument can be made that New York has had a run of safe racing. So far this year, there has been one racing death at Aqueduct and two at Belmont, which is in stark contrast to 15 racing fatalities at Santa Anita. The remaining New York fatalities were in training, especially at Belmont (nine deaths), which is a heavily used year-around training facility. Last year, there were 18 racing deaths at the three main New York tracks out of 14,987 starts. NYRA has implemented extensive reforms and made significant investments in recent years to modernize track surface analysis, upgrade facilities and provide our veterinary team with the independent authority and resources required to properly monitor thoroughbred health and welfare, said Pat McKenna, NYRA director of communications. These efforts have yielded meaningful results and led to demonstrably safer racing operations at Aqueduct Racetrack, Belmont Park and Saratoga Racecourse. PETAs announcement is meant to coincide with the Belmont Stakes, the third leg of the Triple Crown, which will be held a week from Saturday. Neither New York nor any other state has enacted the rules that the Stronach Group and the California Horse Racing Board have out in place and continue to strengthen, Guillermo said. There is no excuse for this inaction. Its a very unusual alliance to have a racing company and an animal rights group on seemingly the same side. When Belinda Stronach, chief executive and president of the Stronach Group, announced a series of safety reforms, PETA was part of the announcement. The reforms include cutting in half the amount of race-day Lasix a horse can have and stricter protocols on other medications, along with tougher vetting of when a horse should be allowed to run. There is also a proposal to eliminate the use of the riding crop, or whip, except when safety is involved. Its expected that proposal will be modified. I agree with [the stance] that we are continuing to do everything we can to promote safety, Chuck Winner, California Horse Racing Board chairman, said on Tuesday. Were working along with the Stronach Group and other industry stakeholders to make racing as safe as it can possibly be. Despite the support from PETA and a call for national reform, the Stronach Group has been unable to enact its own proposals at its tracks in Florida and Maryland. Negotiations are ongoing with the various jurisdictions. Sign up for our horse racing newsletter We would love to see uniformity, Stronach said in an interview during Preakness Stakes weekend. I would like to see uniformity across America. But we have to lead and start somewhere and weve taken a very principled stand. Were going to work through it. The California Horse Racing Board is investigating the deaths of the latest fatalities, as it does with every horse death in California. Every situation is different and were evaluating each and every one to see if it could be avoided and if it could, we would take action, Winner said. We investigate all of them. Winner said he couldnt comment on the status of any of the investigations. Santa Anita and the California Horse Racing Board are checking to see if protocols were followed in the death of Kochees, a 9-year-old gelding, who was euthanized on Sunday after he could not be saved by surgery. The horse was conditioned by Hall of Fame trainer Jerry Hollendorfer. Three of the 26 racing and training fatalities since Dec. 26 were trained by Hollendorfer. In my mind there is absolutely no doubt that weve done every single thing properly with Kochees and all the rest of our horses, too, Hollendorfer told the Associated Press. The Stronach Group, Churchill Downs Inc., the NYRA and many independent tracks such as Del Mar, Los Alamitos and Keeneland formed a coalition to institute more safety measures. Starting next year, 2-year-olds will not be allowed to race with Lasix and in 2021 race-day Lasix will not be allowed in stakes races, including the Triple Crown. Lasix is a diuretic used to treat exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhaging (EIPH), or bleeding from the lungs while running. Supporters of the European Union garnered a majority in continent-wide parliamentary elections, fighting off a populist challenge, according to tallies released Monday. But the results also showed a polarized electorate that points to continuing discord over hot-button issues such as immigration and the power of EU institutions. Although traditional mainstream parties were the chief casualty of the pan-European vote that took place over four days ending Sunday, gains by the EU-bashing far right were largely offset by victories on the left. Populist-nationalist parties pursuing a strident anti-immigrant agenda made some inroads, notching a high-profile victory in Italy and an extremely narrow win in France, but failed to attain the continent-wide surge they had hoped for. Advertisement The nationalist movements certainly did not take over power in Europe, despite some spectacular successes, said the lead editorial in Germanys liberal newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung in Munich. But that is not any reason to relax, because the nationalists were too strong in a number of nations. Greens make gains Showcasing the dramatic split between Europeans and the Trump administration over climate change and other environmental issues, the Green party and its offshoots turned in a powerful performance. In Germany, the Green party was the second-biggest vote getter, capturing 20% of the vote and winning in 9 out of 10 of the countrys biggest cities. Frances Greens also polled strongly, placing third. The big winners are the Greens, wrote Nikolaus Blome, a columnist at Germanys best-selling Bild tabloid. They have turned their skillful marketing into real power. They want dramatically more protection against climate change and present themselves as a sort of bulwark against the far right. Turnout was the highest in two decades in the Europe-wide vote for the 751-seat legislative body. The European Parliament represents more than 500 million people across 28 countries, making this election the worlds second-largest democratic exercise, after Indias. Domestic political fallout Some countries saw swift domestic political fallout from the vote, although the tallies do not directly affect national governance. In Greece, the governing left-wing partys showing was so weak that the prime minister called new national elections. There was a hardening of Brexit battle lines in Britain, where the mainstream Conservative and Labor parties were far outpolled by the newly created Brexit Party, which is determined to have the country leave the European Union with or without a deal. But reflecting the bitter national divide, remainers who would like a chance to overturn the 2016 referendum to abandon the bloc picked up as many or more parliamentary seats, though those votes were split among several parties, complicating comparisons to the single-issue Brexit Party. Prime Minister Theresa May, who announced her planned departure last week after she was unable to forge a consensus on terms for leaving the EU, employed some classic understatement after the wipeout of her governing Conservative Party, which placed fifth, falling into single digits of vote share. May termed the outcome very disappointing. In Austria, the conservative party of Chancellor Sebastian Kurz won the largest share of votes, but his government was toppled Monday when the far-right Freedom Party, previously allied with him, joined in a no-confidence vote to bring him down. Kurz last week ejected the Freedom Party from his governing coalition after scandal erupted over a video that appeared to show one of its leaders, the countrys vice chancellor, offering to sell political favors to a woman posing as a wealthy Russian. The scandal-disgraced vice chancellor, Heinz-Christian Strache, won the right to a parliamentary position under party-list rules, news agency reports said, but it wasnt certain whether he would take up his seat. Populists, nationalists again test their strength in pan-European vote Tight finish in France The centrist party of French President Emmanuel Macron, who has styled himself as the champion of a more integrated Europe, had hoped for a repeat of 2017 presidential election results, when Macron soundly defeated the far-right National Rallys Marine Le Pen. In this matchup, Le Pens party won the larger vote share, but the margin was so slender that both parties will apparently have the same number of European Parliament seats. Le Pens National Rally, together with populist counterparts elsewhere, wants to try to bring the EUs policies more in line with its own and diminish the blocs regulatory powers. Macrons backers sought to put the best possible face on the result, with government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye saying Monday that the election outcome did not trigger a domestic political crisis. Analysts said that based on so narrow a loss, Macron was unlikely to accede to Le Pens demand for a dissolution of Frances Parliament. This defeat isnt sufficiently serious to warrant political consequences such as a change of prime minister, said Bruno Cautres, a politics scholar at Paris prestigious Sciences-Po university. Tepid far-right gains Giving rise to expectations of a possible populist wave, Italys hard-line interior minister, Matteo Salvini, sought before the vote to band together with his nationalist counterparts from across the continent, cheered on by former White House strategist Stephen K. Bannon. Salvinis League was the runaway winner in Italy, garnering more than one-third of the vote, but his strong showing did not give much of a lift to his partners elsewhere. In Hungary, Prime Minister Viktor Orbans authoritarian-minded party garnered an easy win, but Orban has not committed to joining Salvinis coalition in the European Parliament. Relatively tepid far-right gains did not prevent Salvini from striking a triumphalist pose in a Twitter post of himself, with a MAGA hat among the items displayed on a shelf behind him. He held a hand-lettered sign that read, in Italian: No 1 party in Italy and added: Grazie! Special correspondent Kirschbaum reported from Berlin and Times staff writer King from Washington. Special correspondent Kim Willsher in Paris contributed to this report. Scaling Mt. Everest was a dream few realized before Nepal opened its side of the mountain to commercial climbing half a century ago. This year the government issued a record number of permits, leading to traffic jams on the worlds highest peak that probably contributed to the greatest death toll in four years. As the allure of Everest grows, so have the crowds, with inexperienced climbers faltering on the narrow passageway to the peak and causing deadly delays, veteran climbers said. Nepals tourism officials have no intention of restricting the number of permits issued despite the deaths of 11 people this year, instead encouraging even more tourists and climbers to come for both pleasure and fame, said Mohan Krishna Sapkota, secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. Nepal, one of the worlds poorest countries, relies on the climbing industry to bring in $300 million each year. It doesnt cap the number of permits it issues or control the pace or timing of the expeditions, leaving that to tour operators and guides who take advantage of brief clear weather conditions whenever they come, leading to pileups near the peak. Advertisement On May 22, a climber snapped a photo from a line with dozens of hikers in colorful winter gear that snaked into the sky. Climbers were crammed crampon-to-crampon along a sharp-edged ridge above South Col, with a 7,000-foot drop on either side, all clipped onto a single line of rope, trudging toward the top of the world and risking death as each minute ticked by. There were more people on Everest than there should be, said Kul Bahadur Gurung, general secretary of the Nepal Mountaineering Assn., an umbrella group of all expedition operators in Nepal. The death toll this season is the highest since 2015. Most of those who died are believed to have suffered from altitude sickness, which is caused by low amounts of oxygen at high elevation and can cause headaches, vomiting, shortness of breath and mental confusion. Once accessible only to well-heeled elite mountaineers, Nepals booming climbing market has driven down the cost of an expedition, opening up Everest to hobbyists and adventure seekers. They are required to have a doctors note deeming them physically fit, but not proof of stamina at such extreme heights. Because of the altitude, climbers have just hours to reach the top before they are at risk of high altitude pulmonary edema, when the lungs fill with liquid. From Camp Four at 26,240 feet to the 29,035-foot peak, the final push on Everest is known as the death zone. The conditions are so intense that when a climber dies, the body is left on the mountain; no one can afford to expend energy on carrying the body down. Every minute counts there, said Eric Murphy, a mountain guide from Bellingham, Wash., who on May 23 climbed Everest for a third time. He said what should have taken 12 hours took 17 hours because of struggling climbers who were clearly exhausted but had no one to guide or help them. Just a handful of inexperienced climbers, he said, is enough to have a profound effect. Christopher Kulish, a Colorado climber shown in an April 2019 selfie beneath Mt. Everest, died shortly after summiting in May. (Christopher Kulish) The deaths this year on Nepals side of the mountain included Don Cash, a sales executive from Utah, and Christopher Kulish, an attorney from Colorado, who both died on their way down from the peak. Kulish, 62, had just reached the top with a small group after crowds of climbers congested the peak last week, according to his brother, Mark Kulish. He described his brother as an attorney who was an inveterate climber of peaks in Colorado, the West and the world over. Just before he died, Kulish made it into the so-called Seven Summits Club of mountaineers who have reached the highest peaks on every continent, his brother said. Cash, 55, collapsed at the summit and was given CPR and massages by his two Sherpa guides, according to Pasang Tenje Sherpa, head of Pioneer Adventure, which provided the guides. Cash got up only to fall again in the same way at Hillary Step, the first cliff face down from the summit; his body was left near there. Cash had said on his LinkedIn page that he left his job as a sales executive to try to join the Seven Summits Club. Nepal doesnt have any regulations on the books to determine how many permits should be issued, so anyone with a doctors note can obtain one for an $11,000 fee, Sapkota said. This year, permits were issued to 381 people, the highest number ever, according to the government. They were accompanied by an equal number of guides from Nepals ethnic Sherpa community. Some of the climbers were originally issued permits in 2014 that were revoked midseason when 16 Sherpa guides died in an avalanche and other Sherpas, whose support as guides and porters is essential, in effect went on strike. Another factor in crowding was the reduced number of permits issued by China for routes on the north side of Everest to allow for a cleanup. The northern and southern sides of the mountain are littered with empty oxygen canisters, food packaging and other debris. Chinese state media have said the cleanup will include retrieval of bodies of climbers left above Camp Four. Instead of the overcrowding, Sapkota blamed the weather, equipment and inadequate supplemental oxygen for this years deaths. Indian Everest climber Ameesha Chauhan recovers from frostbite in a Katmandu hospital on May 27, 2019. She says climbers without sufficient skills should be barred from the mountain to prevent a recurrence of this years deadly, crowded season on the worlds highest peak. (Gopen Rai / AFP/Getty Images) There has been concern about the number of climbers on Mt. Everest, but it is not because of the traffic jam that there were casualties, Sapkota said in Namche, the town that serves as the staging area for Everest trips. Still, he said, in the next season we will work to have double rope in the area below the summit so there is better management of the flow of climbers. Instead of limiting the number of people who attempt to reach Everests peak, Sapkota said, Nepals government will encourage even more tourists and climbers to come for both pleasure and fame. Mirza Ali, a Pakistani mountaineer and tour company owner who reached Everests peak for the first time this month, on his fourth attempt, said such an approach was flawed. Everybody wants to stand on top of the world, but tourists unprepared for the extremes of Everest endanger the entire industry, he said. There is not a sufficient check on issuing the permits, Ali said. The more people come, the more permits, more business. But on the other side, it is a lot of risk because it is costing lives. Indian climber Ameesha Chauhan, recovering from frostbitten toes at a hospital in Katmandu, described the agony of turning away from the peak when she realized her supplemental oxygen supply was low. Two of her team members died on the May 16 ascent. She returned and scaled the peak a week later. Many climbers are too focused on reaching the summit, she said. They are not only risking themselves but also putting others at risk. A man carrying a knife in each hand and screaming I will kill you! attacked a group of schoolgirls near a school bus parked at a bus stop just outside Tokyo on Tuesday, killing two and injuring 17 before killing himself, officials said. Most of the victims were students at a Catholic elementary school who were lined up at the bus stop near Noborito Park here when a man in his 50s began slashing them with knives, authorities said. City officials, quoting police, said the suspect was captured but died from a self-inflicted slash in his neck. Witnesses described a hellish scene: Children and adults falling to the ground, some with their shirts soaked with blood, dozens of children running and screaming for help, and school bags and books scattered on the ground. I heard a scream so I stopped and turned around to see what happened. It was not a normal tone of voice, said Yasuko Atsukata. She said she saw one person collapse, and then another. The color of their white shirts turned red after they collapsed, then I understood they got stabbed. Advertisement In a nearby parking lot, a frightened-looking boy was in shock with scratches on his face, hands and legs, apparently from falling to the ground as he ran for his life. Police wouldnt confirm specifics about the attacker except that he died. His identity and motive werent immediately known. Kawasaki city official Masami Arai said most of the injured were students at Caritas Gakuen, a local Catholic school founded by Soeurs de la Charite de Quebec, an organization of Catholic nuns in Quebec City in Canada. Arai said three of the injuries were serious. We have sad news that one of our students was killed in the attack, school director Hiroaki Takamatsu said at a news conference, choked with emotion. I dont know what to say to our students and their parents. Kanagawa prefectural police confirmed that 17 people were injured and three others had died, including a man who is not a victim but linked to the case. Police identified two of the dead as 11-year-old Hanako Kuribayashi and Satoshi Oyama, a 39-year-old government employee who was taking his child to the bus stop. Hospital officials said both had been slashed in the head, chest and face. Witnesses said that as the attack unfolded, the bus driver shouted at the attacker. The attacker then cut his own neck as he was running away, collapsing in a pool of blood as police seized him, the witnesses said. Japanese media, including public broadcaster NHK, said he was a 51-year-old resident of the city and that police found two more knives in his knapsack in addition to the two he was holding. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he was outraged by the attack. Many small children were victimized, and I feel strong resentment, Abe said as he was hosting President Trump on a four-day state visit, which ended Tuesday. I will take all possible measures to protect the safety of children. Although Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, it has had a series of high-profile killings, including in 2016 when a former employee at a home for the disabled allegedly killed 19 people and injured more than 20 others. Early in December, Surachai Danwattananusorn went uncharacteristically silent. The septuagenarian Thai dissident stopped recording the fortnightly podcast he had hosted for years from exile in Laos. Text messages from his wife in Thailand went unanswered. Two weeks later, the bodies of two of his colleagues were found floating in the Mekong River between Thailand and Laos. They had been handcuffed and strangled with a rope, their stomachs disemboweled and stuffed with concrete. Surachai remains missing and is feared dead the most prominent of a wave of exiles who have been arrested, abducted, disappeared or killed in recent months in a shadowy crackdown against critics of the twin pillars of Thailands establishment: the monarchy and military. Advertisement Exiles say the Thai army is trying to silence opponents, at home and abroad, in the twilight of military rule that began with a 2014 coup. A new Parliament, elected in March under rules that heavily favored army-backed candidates, was sworn in Friday. The crackdown also signals the armys effort to clear the way for the coronation this month of Thailands new king, Maha Vajiralongkorn. Hundreds have been arrested for making or sharing statements or online posts deemed offensive to the monarchy, which is protected from almost all criticism by some of the worlds most sweeping lese-majeste laws. The arrests and disappearances have sent shock waves through the scattered community of roughly 100 Thai dissidents in exile most living in the neighboring countries of Laos and Cambodia. Soon after appointing himself prime minister, the junta leader, former Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha, said his top priority was protecting the monarchy and called on foreign governments to hand over exiled activists. Prayuth, who refashioned himself into a civilian politician and led the party that won the most votes in the March election, is favored to stay on as prime minister in the new government. It has been easy so far, while Thailand is under the junta, to eliminate enemies of the state this way, said Pavin Chachavalpongpun, a political scientist who obtained refugee status in Japan after the military issued a warrant for his arrest in 2014 over comments critical of the coup. Once Thailand is under a civilian regime, he said, this method of eliminating enemies will be illegitimate, and surely illegal. Hence, time is ticking. The hunting has been accelerated. In March, a United Nations working group on enforced disappearances wrote to the Thai government asking for information about Surachai and his colleagues, saying it is believed Thai officials may be responsible for their fates. Thailands foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment from The Times. Then, in early May, human rights groups said that three other Thai dissidents who fled Laos after Surachais abduction had been arrested in Vietnam, which reportedly extradited them to Thailand. Thai authorities have not acknowledged holding the men, whom rights groups identified as Chucheep Chivasut, Siam Theerawut and Kritsana Thapthai accused of operating anti-monarchy radio programs and mobilizing demonstrations. Days later, Malaysia sent an activist who had applied for U.N. refugee status back to Thailand in apparent violation of international laws prohibiting the deportation of asylum seekers who face persecution in their home countries. The asylum seeker, Praphan Pipithnamporn, had previously been arrested in Thailand for her affiliation with the Organization for Thai Federation, a banned anti-monarchy group whose supporters wear black shirts with a red-and-white flag logo. Human rights groups said Praphan was being held at a prison in Bangkok. Two other dissidents disappeared in Laos in 2016 and 2017 and are believed dead. The threats are not new, but it has gotten more intense at the beginning of the reign of the current king, because they want to eliminate anyone who criticizes the monarchy, said Worravut Tito Thueakchaiyaphum of the protest band Faiyen, whose members fled to Laos in 2014 to escape trial by a military court. The band, whose name means cool fire, announced on social media last week that its members feared for their lives after many trusted people told us that the Thai military will come to kill us. In a phone interview from Laos, Worravut said the group had seen a document that Thai authorities sent to the government of Laos, listing the names of Thai exiles who were being sought for arrest. The Times could not independently confirm the existence of such a document. Worravut, 30, said he approached the U.S. Embassy in Laos in 2014 to request refugee status, but was told he had to apply in Thailand. In recent months, he said, representatives of the Thai security forces have visited his parents house in northeastern Thailand with increasing frequency, attempting to apply pressure so that hed turn himself in. The band which plays luk thung, a style of Thai country music popular with the working class rose to prominence in 2010 for criticizing a deadly army crackdown against opposition red shirt demonstrators allied with former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Members of the Thai protest band Faiyen include, from left, Nithiwat Jom Wannasiri, Parinya Port Cheewinkulpathom, Romchalee Yammy Sombulrattanakul and Trairong Khunthong Sinseubpol. (Handout) Faiyen performed at protest rallies, its lyrics directly calling for the repeal of the lese-majeste law. One song highlights how several activists arrested under the law were repeatedly denied bail. It includes the verse: Just a bit of curiosity lands you in jail! Jail! Jail! Jail! Just a bit of criticism lands you in jail! Jail! Jail! Jail! Just telling the truth lands you in jail! Jail! Jail! Jail! Worravut said band members were now sleeping in shifts, listening for unfamiliar vehicles and venturing out of their house only for food and never alone. If a dog barks, if we hear a car, we have to go out and check, band member Trairong Sinseubpol said in a recent video message. Because its no longer just a threat. Many warnings point to the same thing, that they are coming for sure. Faiyens situation is especially precarious because the Laotian government has never acknowledged the presence of Thai refugees on its soil. The exiles hold no residency papers, drivers licenses or other official documents, meaning they lack protection under local laws and Laos could feign ignorance if they go missing. Whether we will be captured for illegal entry into the country this very day, I dont know, Trairong said. The band lives mainly off donations from supporters, and for a while continued to have a presence in Thailand through a YouTube channel where it posted songs and messages until the Thai government blocked the channel. Sunai Phasuk, senior Thailand researcher with Human Rights Watch, said Faiyens members were among the last anti-monarchy activists still being sought. The others that Thailand wanted have ended up disappeared or dead. The only one remaining and still active online is Faiyen, he said. So they have reason to be worried about their safety. Nollywood teen actress Regina Daniels recently held a kiddies festival in commemoration of Childrens Day, and it appears the event was also attended by some close friends, particularly someone that was reportedly her former lover. In a video that is currently making the rounds online, the fair skinned beauty who recently held the traditional rites of her marriage to billionaire, Ned Nwoko, was spotted in company of her ex-lover, Adinma Sonma. The two appeared cuddly and caught up in the moment of celebration as they recorded themselves on camera and mouthed Naira Marleys Am I a Yahoo Boy. After a few seconds, Daniels pulled away from the camera and called on her former lover to join her on the dance floor. READ ALSO: Regina Daniels mum dances excitedly as her daughter gets initiated into womanhood (video) Another portion of the video shows the two hanging around the stage as Soma whispered into the screen divas ear. Watch the video below: PAY ATTENTION: Read best news on Nigeria's #1 news app PAY ATTENTION: Get your daily relationship tips and advice on Africa Love Aid group In a related Regina Daniels story, Legit.ng gathered that colleagues and friends in the movie industry joined the actress and her man in Delta, to witness her induction ritual ceremony. Actors Charles Inojie, Chinedu Ikedieze were among those who were spotted at the event. READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better Can you marry an older lady or a younger man? | Legit TV Source: Legit.ng - A Nigerian lady has shared her thoughts on Regina Daniels' marriage induction ritual - The lady claimed that the ritual is used to guarantee that the husband would not be cheated on - Regina Daniels had been inducted into the married woman group in Delta state In a recent development, Nollywood actress, Regina Daniels, had confirmed her marriage to a 59-year-old billionaire after she was initiated into the married women group in Delta state, in a traditional ceremony. Legit.ng had reported that the young actress had done her induction into womanhood on Sunday, May 26, in Anioma, alongside her mother and husband who is a native of Anioma. A young Nigerian lady identified as Onuh Chisom Maryjane has now shared her thoughts on marital induction. The lady expressed that the initiation has lots of implications that are not so good for the new bride. Lady reveals the implications of Regina Daniels marriage induction ritual Source: Facebook user Onuh Chisom Maryjane/Legitamebor Source: Instagram READ ALSO: Faces of Nollywood actors who graced Regina Daniels' induction into womanhood (photos) According to Chisom, the initiation is a way to demand that Daniels is faithful to her husband. Chisom claimed that the initiation grants the actress permission to pleasure herself if her husband is not around. PAY ATTENTION: Read best news on Nigeria's #1 news app The lady, who shared her thoughts on Facebook, also alleged that if Daniels cheats on her husband she would die. She also claimed that if the husband is aware of an affair and he does nothing he would be punished as well. PAY ATTENTION: Get your daily relationship tips and advice on Africa Love Aid group Chisom further alleged that with the ritual if the husband dies the wife is not expected to remarry until she goes through another round of the ritual to untie herself from the man she was married to. According to the lady, failure to follow the rules of the ritual would mean death for the people involved in it. Read post below: READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda Meanwhile, Legit.ng had also reported that the young actress' mother was excited to be at her daughter's induction into womanhood. The woman was spotted in a video dancing excitedly as her daughter got initiated into womanhood in Delta state, confirming her marriage to the 59-year-old billionaire. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better Can you marry an older lady or a younger man? - on Legit TV Source: Legit.ng A firm hired to spruce up Bethlehems Christmas decor and amp up the citys holiday cheer wants the public to weigh in on its ideas. On Thursday, the city is hosting an open house from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for the public to view renderings of proposed improvements to its Christmas lighting and decor created by the consultant David Weiner Lighting Design. Bethlehem tasked the New York City-based firm with freshening up and unifying the citys Christmas decor. The renderings are a result of an April public brainstorming session and several meetings with stakeholders The City relies on a robust Christmas season to support our small businesses and to provide a terrific experience for our residents, Mayor Bob Donchez said in a news release. The enhancement of our decor program is a necessary step in making sure Bethlehem remains a destination for the holiday season. Moravians named their settlement after Jesus birthplace on Christmas Eve 1741. During the Great Depression, city business leaders tried to cash in on that holiday heritage and began marketing Bethlehem as the Christmas City in 1937. Its been a successful endeavor putting Bethlehem on the map as a holiday destination, drawing busloads of tourists to Main Street Bethlehem, the Southside and Christkindlmarkt, the German-themed holiday market. The historic downtown has adopted a white-light color scheme with single candles -- harkening to the Moravian tradition -- lighting windows of many historic buildings. Across the Lehigh River, visitors to the Southside are greeted by strands of multicolored lights and colored stars. Lighted Christmas trees -- white in the north and multicolored to the south -- dot traffic lights and poles throughout the city. Some of the classic trees have been replaced with Star of Bethlehem lights on the Broad Street, Minsi Trail and Fahy bridges this year as well as along Third Street because the trees often get washed out by the light poles. The public is invited to stop by the open-house format anytime between 5:00 and 7:00 PM in Town Hall at 10 E. Church Street, Bethlehem. Sara K. Satullo may be reached at ssatullo@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @sarasatullo and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Wednesday afternoon Las Vegas Sand Corp. is making its pitch to state regulators asking for approval to sell its Bethlehem casino for $1.3 billion to the affiliate of an Alabama-based Indian tribe. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has scheduled a 1 p.m. special meeting to vote on the Sands change of ownership petition and PCI Gaming Authoritys -- a subsidiary of Wind Creek Bethlehem -- request for a category 2 casino license. You can check out the agenda here. The board livestreams its meetings. The Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem sale had been slated for the boards May 15 regular board meeting, but it was pushed to a special meeting to allow Wind Creek to respond to some questions. In a filing, Wind Creek laid out how it would stay competitive in a continually tightening gaming market and keep underage gamblers off its gaming floor. To set itself apart, Wind Creek plans to diversify the offerings on the former Bethlehem Steel Corp. plant land, turning it into more than just one of Pennsylvanias top performing gaming halls. Once the sale is finalized, Wind Creek plans to spend $90 million expanding the existing hotel with a 300-room new tower and invest more than $100 million in turning the No. 2 Machine Shop into a 300,000-square-foot indoor/adventure water park and hotel. Conceptual renderings show the long, vacant building transformed into a gigantic greenhouse-like structure between the SteelStacks and casino. Wind Creek told the gaming board it wants to begin development of a hotel tower to complement the existing one as soon as it closes. As for the development of the water park and another adjoining hotel, it appears no specific timeline has been set. Within the park will be about 105,000 square feet of water rides, along with other activities like rock-climbing and zip lines, according to the plans submitted with the state. The cost of the projects was redacted in the documentation provided by the gaming board. Wind Creek, owned by the Poarch Creek band of Indians, previously announced it planned to immediately invest $190 million into the property. The Morning Call reported that Wind Creek has set aside $250 million for the water park and adjoining hotel, plus $90 million for the existing hotel. The change of ownership petition submitted Feb. 21 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. The sale of one of Pennsylvanias most lucrative casinos 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. Sara K. Satullo may be reached at ssatullo@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @sarasatullo and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. The U.S. Supreme Court will not take up a challenge to a Berks County school districts policy allowing transgender students to use bathrooms and locker rooms that correspond with their sexual identity. The justices on Tuesday rejected an appeal from students who argued that allowing transgender students to use the same facilities violated their right to privacy. The courts order leaves in a place a federal appeals court ruling that held that the Boyertown School District could continue to allow transgender students the choice of what facilities to use. The students who filed the suit are represented by the conservative Christian law firm Alliance Defending Freedom. Alexis Lightcap, a student at Boyertown Senior High School and one of the plaintiffs, previously said she walked into the womens bathroom during her junior year and saw a transgender student and froze. She said she later told a teacher and the principal who told her the district had a new policy for transgender students. A lawyer for the school district previously said its policy of allowing students to use facilities corresponding to their stated gender is legal and prevents claims that the district violated the rights of transgender students to equal protection. He also noted the district has provided single-stall showers and single-stall bathrooms for students to change for gym class if they feel uncomfortable. by Keydra Manns First Burberry, now Prada has announced they are a fur-free brand. The company says its decision is in reaction to consumers changing their attitude toward fur. Other designers have also decided to go fur-free, but for some, the decision isnt unanimous. Many luxury designers feel fur is a lucrative industry that employs a lot of people, and a ban on fur could impact their livelihoods. Should all designers ban the use of fur? The companys no-fur policy will go into effect in 2020. According to BBC, Prada released this statement about its decision to ban fur and their justification is more layered than you think: "Focusing on innovative materials will allow the company to explore new boundaries of creative design while meeting the demand for ethical products," said the head of the fashion chain, Miuccia Prada. Animal rights activists can now sigh with relief. Zessoo, a plant-based fashion company, is excited to learn their protests werent in vain. The company rallied together for years at Burberrys fashion shows in London to protest their use of fur. Today @burberry announced that they are finally ditching fur. Huge news and will come as a moment of elation and achievement to every individual activist who stood up against the use of fur by Burberry during our London Fashion Week anti-fur campaign throughout the past two years pic.twitter.com/9eziGO2e4u Zessoo (@zessoo) September 6, 2018 But according to Womens Wear Daily, designer Karl Lagerfeld says the fur industry is valuable. Lagerfeld believes the industry employs a lot of people and faux fur actually pollutes the environment. Fake fur pollutes the world more than anything else. Fur is an industry. Its legal. The idea that people dont like it I understand. But as long as they use leather and eat meat, I dont see that its a problem." Its more and more difficult to make fur collections. You can hardly find expensive furs. You have to do shearlings and shaved mink and things like this because its impossible to find sable, its very, very difficult. Because, you know, sable and ermine you cannot farm. People who want to suppress the fur industry if they have enough money to make an income for all the people who work in that industry, OK. I see it going nowhere. Rapper Safaree Samuels ran into a mob of anti-fur protesters and defended his love for fur. The rapper says protesters should focus less on animal rights and more on the rights of human beings. Take a look at the video below. The Tylt is focused on debates and conversations around news, current events and pop culture. We provide our community with the opportunity to share their opinions and vote on topics that matter most to them. We actively engage the community and present meaningful data on the debates and conversations as they progress. The Tylt is a place where your opinion counts, literally. The Tylt is an Advance Local Media, LLC property. Join us on Twitter @TheTylt, on Instagram @TheTylt or on Facebook, wed love to hear what you have to say. Two women with Newbridge links have been elected to the European Parliament to represent the Dublin constituency. Frances Fitzgerald of Fine Gael and Clare Daly of independents4change have been elected to the second and third places behind the Green's Ciaran Cuffe. Both are from army families and both attended school in the town, although have also since left the town. Ms Fitzgerald, 68, is originally from Croom in Co. Limerick is a sister of Edel Mulligan, who taught in their alma mater Holy Family Secondary School. She worked as a social worker and was first elected to the Dail in 1992. Ms Daly, 51, was first elected to the Dail in 2011. She was previously a Socialist Party Councillor for the Swords electoral area on Fingal County Council. She resigned from the Socialist Party in 2012. She was a member of the Labour Party until 1989 when she and Joe Higgins were expelled along with other supporters of Militant Tendancy. Her father, Kevin Daly, is a retired colonel in the army. For all the details and fun of the Local Election count in Punchestown, click here to read our liveblog. A Dublin man who assaulted a bus driver causing permanent damage to his teeth has been handed down a nine month prison sentence. Jean Angbala, with an address listed in court documents as 80, Ballybough Road, Dublin 3, appeared before Naas District Court on Wednesday, May 22, charged with Section 2 assault and Section 6 public order. The court heard that on October 31, 2018, at Athy Road, Kilcullen, Mr Angbala attempted to get on to the bus and pay the driver 5 instead of the 10 fare. Sgt Jim Kelly said the defendant was abusive to the driver, and assaulted him. Sgt Kelly said a number of persons who were on the bus had to hold Mr Angbala back until gardai arrived on the scene. Aisling Murphy, BL, acting for the defendant, said on the day in question her client didnt have enough money for the fare, but had offered to pay half there and half when he was getting off the bus as he was meeting someone. Ms Murphy said her client is 32-years-old and has been in Ireland for 14 years, but is the subject of a deportation order from the Circuit Court in Dublin, and was given until May 31 to leave the country. A victim impact statement, which was provided in court, noted the injured party suffered damage to his front teeth which are permanently loose as a result of the assault. The injured party said he went to see a counsellor after the incident, and that the service was provided by Bus Eireann. The injured party said he was on medication for depression, and was out of work for six and a half months. Judge Zaidan sentenced the defendant to six months in prison for the Section 2 assault, and three months consecutive for the Section 6 public order charge. The sentence was backdated to May 17 last. A man appeared at Naas District Court last Thursday, May 23, charged with trespassing after he was spotted on a property in Dara Park, attempting to unlock a bicycle. Read also: See more Kildare stories here Representing him, solicitor Conal Boyce explained that his client hadnt intended to steal the bike. He had intended to get a taxi and then he thought the bike was outside a friends house and that his friend wouldnt mind him taking it. He is not a thief. As it turns out there was bad news for Eamon Lambert, 29, of The Park, Pipers Hill, Naas. He had picked the wrong house. The owner of the house and the bicycle reported him. Mr Lambert was found to have a small amount of cocaine on his person, worth 50. He was rambling home, the birds were singing, you know, Mr Boyce said. He meant no harm by it. The defendant had written a letter of apology expressing his remorse to the owner of the house in Dara Park. In it, he said his behaviour was out of character The defendant is in full time employment, and has, Mr Boyce said, a good future ahead of him. Hed prefer to avoid a conviction, he said. It was agreed that he would make a 1,000 donation to the Irish Kidney Association. At least you wont be contributing to the 3 billion for broadband, Judge Zaidan told him. Its going to a far better cause. Flash A man with a knife attacked the staff of the Rodina newspaper in southwest Russia's Stavropol City on Monday, injuring four people, Stavropol Regional Governor Vladimir Vladimirov said. "Now the attacker has been detained and the police are taking all the necessary measures. I am confident that law enforcement officers will quickly sort out all the motives and circumstances, and justice will determine the punishment," Vladimirov said on Instagram. He said that two of the injured have been discharged from hospital, while the lives of two others were not under threat. One of the injured, Chief Editor of the Rodina newspaper Nikolai Bondarenko, told a local TV channel that the attacker entered the editorial office and demanded the newspaper publish an "outrageous" article. When Bondarenko refused, the man took out a knife and wounded him and three others present. "I understood that I was confronting a crazy man. But I didn't expect him to do what he did," Bondarenko said. ANGELA Collins has shown no sign of slowing down. Following on from her recent last-minute abseil in Croke Park, she is going one step further and organising her own Thomond Park abseil as promised. There are a number of beneficiaries lined up, namely local charities, The Cari Foundation, Clionas Foundation and Children's Grief Centre which helps children who have been troubled by bereavement, separation or divorce. Angela, who hails from Kilkishen in County Clare, is excited to be organising the event, in association with Live 95. Ive come out of retirement for this. I turned 76 last week and Ive come across a lot of helpful people who I am hoping will get on board, she said. Angela is no stranger to heights, having set up Ireland's first steeplejacks, Collins Steeplejacks, which is still operating out of Ardnacrusha. She insists however, that anyone can get involved in the event. I see young people doing it all the time and they love it, but Im asking people of all ages, its completely safe and its great craic, while raising vital funds she said. Angela recalled her experience of a similar event in Croke Park recently. I was dressed in a guna and heels as myself and my husband Jim originally went to support our three daughters as they did the climbing. When I saw them all I got the buzz of excitement and I couldnt resist, next thing I knew I was borrowing a jacket off of Susan Kennedy and running after the group, she laughed. It was such a proud moment to get to do it with my daughters, 30 years after my last climb on Bests on OConnell St. Having suffered a run of bad health, including four heart stents, Angela surprised herself with how well she coped. I feel so invigorated since, Ive come to the realisation that I am only at the last third of my life, she smiled, adding that the organisers treated her just like everyone else. Id love to see some more oldies get on board, we see young people doing it for stag nights and hen nights all the time. Theres no reason why we cant she said. The Leader will follow with more details on the event and how to apply closer to the event. THE LONG-SERVING garda in Ballylanders, John Curtin, has just retired but Noah Quish is ready to fill his boots. The brave two-year-old, whose parents Una and John Joe are from Ballylanders, was welcomed to Henry Street by Chief Superintendent Gerry Roche and Supt Derek Smart on Tuesday. Garda Noah has a nice ring to it. It all began at the weekend when the charity Little Hearts Warriors had a get together in Shay Kinsellas Dreamland. Noah - who is battling serious illness and has had numerous life-saving surgeries - loves An Garda Siochana. His mum took an adorable photo of Noah in a garda vest at the event. She sent it off to the press office, saying Noah wants to join the forces, his previous experience is battling serious illness and having numerous life saving surgeries. He still continues to defy all odds. On Monday, @gardainfo account tweeted: An Garda Siochana would like to welcome our new recruit Noah Quish. He is a real little warrior who is fighting his illness and still has a smile on his face. It was viewed well over 100,000 times. Supt Smart went one better and invited Noah, his sister Leah and Una and John Joe to the station on Tuesday. He even arranged for a patrol car to pick Noah up. Sergeant Shane Davern and Garda Elaine Cusack called to the Quish family home in Monaleen. Normally people run away from gardai when they call to your home but Noah ran straight in to the arms of Sgt Davern. They whisked him away to Henry Street. Noah got to pet Caesar, one of the canines in the Garda Dog Unit, and got to sit up on a motorbike thanks to the Traffic Corps. Afterwards Una said it was the most magical day for a true little warrior. It is all down to the wonderful An Garda Siochana. They went above and beyond the call of duty for us, said Una. Were hoping hell be a garda when he gets bigger. He loves attention and the gardai are always very good to him when he is out and about, said the proud mum. Supt Smart said they were delighted to welcome Noah and his family to Henry Street. We picked up on the story and decided to show him the dogs and the bikes and everything we have to offer, said Supt Smart. The broad smile on Noahs face shows how much he enjoyed the visit. Una said Noah turned two last March which was a miracle. He was diagnosed with a heart condition, severe obstructive laryngomalacia which is a blockage of the airway so it closed when he tried to breathe, severe sleep apnoea, rare chromosome deletion and now has scoliosis, said Una. Noah had open heart surgery at four months old. Two weeks later airway surgery was performed and Noah will require more surgery in the future. He is still tube fed and on continuous positive airway pressure at night as there is a chance he wouldnt wake up, said Una. He has a Jack and Jill nurse minding him once a week and had numerous nurses at home keeping an eye on him. He will have a full body cast put on in a few weeks for his scoliosis and will have to have a peg inserted in a few months for feeding as he cant eat, said Una. Tests are ongoing and he has another unknown syndrome which they should have results for in August. Despite all this Noahs mum says he is the happiest boy. Noah is the little model for Children's Medical and Research Foundation Crumlin as part of a fundraising drive. The picture that started all this was taken in Dreamland which is amazing for sick kids and Shay Kinsella is so accommodating. The day was for Little Hearts Warriors. Noah has been part of Heart Children Irelands calendar for the past two years also, said Una. Founder of Little Hearts Warriors, Rhona Cullinane said: It was the most amazing experience and Dreamland is definitely a magical place where dreams come true. It gave our little warriors and their families the opportunity make their dreams of being a garda, pilot, firefighters, doctor, hairdresser etc come true, said Rhona. Noahs dreams certainly did come true. THE MANAGING director of Shannon Airport has said that he and Shannon Group look forward to strengthening ties between Shannon and China, following a very positive meeting with the Chinese ambassador-designate to Ireland. During last Fridays meeting, Shannon Group deputy CEO, Mary Considine, and Shannon Airport managing director, Andrew Murphy, and He Xiangdong discussed the Shannon Groups companies and the ties between China and Ireland. The special visit marked 40 years of diplomatic relations between China and Ireland. It was a pleasure to meet with the Ambassador designate and his wife. We look forward to strengthening the strong friendship between Shannon and China in the years ahead, Mr Murphy said. The Ambassador designates Shannon tour included a visit to Shannon Free Zone, which is managed by Shannon Groups property company Shannon Commercial Properties. This year Shannon Free Zone is celebrating the 60th anniversary of its establishment. Shannons relationship with China dates back to 1980 when Jiang Zemin - then an official who would later become president of China - led a delegation to Shannon to study the Shannon Free Zone. So impressed was he that the Shannon Free Zone model was adopted across China and led to the development of their hugely successful special economic zones, which inspired Chinas economic boom. The new designate Chinese Ambassadors tour included a visit to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, which is owned and managed by Shannon Groups tourism company, Shannon Heritage. Here he retraced the steps of the Chinese President Xi Jinping, who attended a special banquet in his honour held at the Castle in 2012 when he was then Vice President. A Limerick biker jailed for murdering the founder of a rival club has lost an appeal against his conviction, claiming he was provoked. Alan 'Cookie' McNamara (52), from Mountfune, Murroe, had pleaded not guilty to the murder of Andrew 'AOD' O'Donoghue at the gates of the Road Tramps motorcycle club at Mountfune, on June 20, 2015. He was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment by Mr Justice Paul McDermott on October 27, 2017. The Central Criminal Court heard that Mr ODonoghue developed a love of bikes in the 1980s and was a founding member of the Road Tramps motorcycle club. McNamara had been a Road Tramp some years earlier but joined another group, the Caballeros, in 2015. Tensions between the two clubs flared when McNamara was seen wearing Caballeros colours in a pub in Doon, an area considered to be Road Tramps' territory. His lawyers told the Court of Appeal that McNamara was having a quiet drink in Doon with his wife when he was subjected to a humiliating assault. McNamara was attacked, his wife was knocked to the ground and the Caballeros colours were taken from his motorcycle jacket - a symbolic attack on his honour. Counsel for McNamara, Hugh Hartnett SC, said it was a deliberate and planned provocation to make his client feel unwelcome in the area. He said three Road Tramps later pulled up to McNamaras house in a car, produced weapons, including a firearm, and threatened to kill him. Mr Hartnett said the threat emanated from the Road Tramps collectively, rather than the individuals present. The following day, McNamara could hear the throaty roar of Harley-Davidsons revving their engines in the distance. It was a few miles away but deep in the countryside you could hear them," counsel said. McNamara then received a phone call from his stepson, who told him he was in a car with two other Caballeros following a member of the Road Tramps in the direction of the rival clubs headquarters. Panicked, Mr Hartnett said McNamara got into his car and drove to the Road Tramps' HQ with a loaded shotgun. When he arrived he saw Mr O'Donoghue holding what he thought to be a gun, so he shot him. Mr ODonoghue was in fact holding a metal bar. President of the Court of Appeal Mr Justice George Birmingham said the threshold for allowing a jury to consider the partial defence of provocation had not been reached or even approached in this case. Undoubtedly, what happened in Doon and at McNamaras house the previous evening was quite unacceptable, the judge said. But it did not provide any justification for what occurred the following afternoon when a sawn-off shotgun was brought to the Road Tramps Clubhouse and then discharged at close range. While Mr McNamaras actions were arguably fuelled by emotions running high, it does not follow that he was provoked into doing so in a legal sense and thereby entitled to rely on the defence of provocation in the absence of a sudden response. Allowing the jury to consider the defence of provocation in this case would have been an unjustifiable expansion of the traditional law on provocation, the judge said. Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions, Michael Delaney SC, said there was no doubt that what happened the night before was provocative but the deceased man had nothing to do with those events. Mr Delaney said there was no authority for the idea that provocation can operate on a third-party basis, but it must emanate from the deceased. The other problem for the defence was the 16-hour interval. Mr Justice Birmingham, who sat with Mr Justice John Edwards and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, rejected Mr McNamaras appeal and upheld his conviction. It was further submitted that the trial judge erred in failing to discharge the jury when an issue arose about the appropriateness of one of the jurors serving. On the first day of the trial, it was brought to the judges attention that one of the jurors knew a former member of the Road Tramps who had just given evidence. The former member had married an old friend of the juror. Mr Justice Birmingham said the juror in question behaved very properly and responsibly in bringing the matter to the courts attention. He said his links to the Road Tramps were very tenuous and the trial judge was reasonable to have excused him and proceeded with 11 jurors. Justice Aminu Aliyu of the Federal High Court, Minna, on Monday, May 27, 2019, ordered the Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command, to arrest former Niger State Governor Muazu Babagida Aliyu and compel his appearance in court on June 13, 2019. The Judge also directed the CP to arrest former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for Niger State, Umar Nasko. The development was sequel to the non-appearance of the duo in court for the second time. The EFCC is prosecuting Aliyu and Nasko over their alleged involvement in about N2billion money laundering. The judge, who was visibly angry over lack of respect for his court, gave three orders to the Commissioner of Police for failure to carry out his order. First, he ordered Commissioner of police to appear before the court for failure to execute his order. Secondly, he directed the Commissioner of Police to execute the Bench warrant earlier issued against the duo. The Judge further directed the CP to personally arrest Aliyu and Nasko and personally bring them to court on the next adjourned date- June 13, 2019. Incidentally, no reason was canvassed for their absence in court. Lawyer to Babangida Aliyu, Akinjide Ayodele (SAN), who was present in court, however, claimed that he was unable to get in touch with his client on Sunday. But the judge replied that Babangida Aliyu was not in court according to his court records. Naskos lawyer, Mamman Ousman (SAN), was also absent in court with his client. Lead lawyer to the prosecuting EFCC, Mr Muyiwa Akinboro (SAN), Hadiza Afegbua and Bilyaman Lawal appeared for the Commission. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) Abuja, Special Area Command, today arrested a 33-year-old Kenyan national, Angela Wairimu, attempting to smuggle 6.5 kilograms of Cocaine into Nigeria. Wairimu, a single mother of two children, was arrested on arrival from South Africa aboard an Ethiopian Airline flight to Abuja, in what the agency officials described as the biggest seizure in recent times. Confirming her arrest, the spokesperson of the NDLEA, Jonah Achema, in a statement released this afternoon, said that some of the illicit substance was concealed in the false bottom of a travelling bag which also contained two wrapped parcels of the same illicit drug, and which she carried as hand luggage. Wairimu who shuttles between Kenya and South Africa claimed to be a modelling expert and a trader in clothes and cosmetics. According to her, a friend in South Africa approached her to assist an unknown person to deliver the brief case containing wears in Nigeria which was brought to her at the Airport through an errand boy. She was to deliver the consignment to the husband of the sender who was to meet her at the NAIA, Abuja. She claimed to be on her second trip to Nigeria to procure home-made body beauty products and local fabrics for her enterprise called La Model in South Africa and Kenya. She denied being under any financial inducement but confessed that her daughter was suffering from acute leukaemia which put her under financial pressure, Achema said According to Hamisu Lawan, NDLEA Commander, NAIA, the seizure is the biggest cocaine shipment in recent times made by the Command. Countries enter into tax treaties to avoid or mitigate double taxation. Today, India has comprehensive Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAA) with nearly 100 countries. A tax treaty between India and Mauritius was signed in 1982 keeping in view Indias strategic interests in the Indian Ocean and close cultural relations with that country. The treaty provided for a capital gains tax exemption (i.e., zero tax) to a Mauritius resident on transfer of Indian shares and securities. After India opened its economy to foreign investment in 1991, Mauritius became one of the top destinations for funnelling investments into India. In 2005, the tax treaty between India and Singapore was amended, and a similar exemption was extended to Singapore. However, the protocol provided that the capital gains benefits would be co-terminus with those available under the Mauritius Treaty. With large investments flowing from both countries, Indian tax authorities became apprehensive of misuse and abuse of these treaties. To curb revenue losses, prevent double non-taxation and tackle treaty abuse and round-tripping of funds, they made several attempts to tax capital gains; however, the treaties stood in the way. Meanwhile, questions were raised globally on multinational corporations (MNCs) exploiting tax rules to shift profits to low or no-tax locations. There was a view in India as well that MNCs were not paying their fair share of taxes. In order to curb mala fide practices, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) along with G20 countries formulated the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) Action Project. This project aims at providing a mechanism to plug loopholes/gaps/mismatches in international tax laws, giving every country an opportunity to earn its fair share of tax revenues. India played a key role in the project. The globally coordinated action plan on BEPS supported Indian tax authorities in the renegotiation with Mauritius and Singapore. Ultimately, 2016 proved to be a historic" year for Indian tax authorities, with revisions to both tax treaties. The revised treaty provides that capital gains on shares in an Indian company acquired up to 31 March 2017, will be exempt, subject to fulfilment of conditions in the Limitation of Benefits (LOB) clause, if any. For a period of two years, starting from 1 April 2017, capital gains will be shared between India and Mauritius/Singapore, subject to the LOB clause, if any. And, capital gains will be fully taxable in India (being a source state) from 1 April 2019 onwards. Indian tax authorities deserve to be commended for giving sufficient advance information to investors before the change took effect, protecting existing investments, and for the transition period. This provided certainty to investors and helped in a smooth transition to the new regime. With a view to protect its tax base and increase transparency, India made a slew of other changes in its (i) domestic tax law such as, introduction of General Anti Avoidance Rules; and (ii) bilateral tax treaties such as, exchange of information, proposed signing of Multilateral Instruments to incorporate Principal Purpose Test (PPT) and LOB clause in its tax treaties with various countries. Taxmen worldwide have come together to create an inclusive framework where MNCs pay their fair share of taxes in respective geographies. India is very much ahead of the curve. The new framework requires a fundamental shift in the way MNCs plan their business. Neeru Ahuja is a partner with Deloitte India, and Gaurav Jain is a senior manager with Deloitte Haskins and Sells Llp. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics Women undergoing fertility treatments may be at an increased risk of a dangerous pregnancy condition called peripartum cardiomyopathy. But the heightened risk is not likely to be related to the treatments themselves. Rather, researchers say, factors that contribute to infertility may also make this type of heart failure more common. In new research presented Saturday (May 25) at the Heart Failure 2019 conference in Athens, Greece, German researchers reported that women undergoing fertility treatments had a risk of peripartum cardiomyopathy five times that of women who got pregnant without fertility treatment. However, infertility did not seem to affect the patients' recovery from peripartum cardiomyopathy, according to their research, which has yet to be published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. [18 Ways Pregnancy Changes Your Body Forever] Infertility and cardiomyopathy Peirpartum cardiomyopathy is a kind of heart failure that occurs during pregnancy or within a few months of birth. The condition affects about 1 in every 1,000 to 4,000 pregnancies resulting in live births, according to a 2016 article in the journal Circulation. Most women recover, but peripartum cardiomyopathy can be fatal. A 2015 study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology found that the condition was responsible for 23% of maternal deaths in California between 2002 and 2005. "We still argue about knowing what the cause of peripartum cardiomyopathy is," said Dr. Ileana Pina, a cardiologist at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, who was not involved in the research. There are certain risk factors, Pina told Live Science, including being of African American descent and having more than one pregnancy. In the new work, medical student Manuel List and colleagues of the Hannover Medical School in Germany collected data on 108 patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy in their clinic. Researchers tested the patients' blood for molecular markers of infertility and then compared these cardiomyopathy patients with 24 pregnant patients without cardiomyopathy. [9 Conditions That Pregnancy May Bring] Thirty-two percent of the patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy reported trouble conceiving. Thirteen percent required assistance conceiving, with most assistance coming in the form of in vitro fertilization, followed by hormonal treatments. In the general German population, 20% of those trying to conceive experience infertility issues and 2.6% of babies are conceived with assistance. The researchers also observed alterations in plasma markers of infertility in the cardiomyopathy patients with infertility. Risk factors A portion of the apparent link between peripartum cardiomyopathy and infertility could be that women undergoing infertility treatments tend to be older than those who get pregnant without assistance, study co-author Denise Hilfiker-Kleiner, the dean of research in molecular cardiology at Hannover Medical School, said in a statement. Infertility treatments also result in more twin or multiple pregnancies, she said, which carry an increased risk of peripartum cardiomyopathy, also known as PPCM. "We also think there may be genetic alterations that predispose women to both subfertility and PPCM, but these analyses are ongoing," List said in the statement. "So far, there is no clear evidence that hormonal treatment, which is usually part of fertility therapy, increases the risk of PPCM." The results suggest that women undergoing fertility treatment should be particularly cognizant of the symptoms of PPCM. These symptoms can mimic pregnancy symptoms, so they are sometimes missed, Pina said. They include swelling in the feet and legs that doesn't go away when the limb is elevated, shortness of breath and fatigue. A doctor looking for the condition will check for fluid in the lungs, according to the American Heart Association. About a third of patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy recover completely with treatment, Pina said. In about a third of cases, the condition is fatal. The remaining patients survive but never recover full heart function, in which case doctors advise against getting pregnant again, Pina said, as a recurrence of the disease can create more heart damage. Patients undergoing fertility treatments shouldn't be frightened, Pina said. "Just be alert, be aware, don't discount symptoms," she said. Originally published on Live Science. Did a team of mathematicians just take a big step toward answering a 160-year-old, million-dollar question in mathematics? Maybe. The crew did solve a number of other, smaller questions in a field called number theory. And in doing so, they have reopened an old avenue that might eventually lead to an answer to the old question: Is the Riemann hypothesis correct? The Reimann hypothesis is a fundamental mathematical conjecture that has huge implications for the rest of math. It forms the foundation for many other mathematical ideas but no one knows if it's true. Its validity has become one of the most famous open questions in mathematics. It's one of seven "Millennium Problems" laid out in 2000, with the promise that whoever solves them will win $1 million. (Only one of the problems has since been solved.) [5 Seriously Mind-Boggling Math Facts] Where did this idea come from? Back in 1859, a German mathematician named Bernhard Riemann proposed an answer to a particularly thorny math equation. His hypothesis goes like this: The real part of every non-trivial zero of the Riemann zeta function is 1/2. That's a pretty abstract mathematical statement, having to do with what numbers you can put into a particular mathematical function to make that function equal zero. But it turns out to matter a great deal, most importantly regarding questions of how often you'll encounter prime numbers as you count up toward infinity. We'll come back to the details of the hypothesis later. But the important thing to know now is that if the Riemann hypothesis is true, it answers a lot of questions in mathematics. "So often in number theory, what ends up happening is if you assume the Riemann hypothesis [is true], you're then able to prove all kinds of other results," Lola Thompson, a number theorist at Oberlin College in Ohio, who wasn't involved in this latest research, said. Often, she told Live Science, number theorists will first prove that something is true if the Riemann hypothesis is true. Then they'll use that proof as a sort of stepping stone toward a more intricate proof, which shows that their original conclusion is true whether or not the Riemann hypothesis is true. The fact that this trick works, she said, convinces many mathematicians that the Riemann hypothesis must be true. But the truth is that nobody knows for sure. A small step toward a proof? So how did this small team of mathematicians seem to bring us closer toward a solution? "What we have done in our paper," said Ken Ono, a number theorist at Emory University and co-author of the new proof, "is we revisited a very technical criterion which is equivalent to the Riemann hypothesis and we proved a large part of it. We proved a large chunk of this criterion." A "criterion which is equivalent to the Riemann hypothesis," in this case, refers to a separate statement that is mathematically equivalent to the Riemann hypothesis. It's not obvious at first glance why the two statements are so connected. (The criterion has to do with something called the "hyperbolicity of Jensen polynomials.") But in the 1920s, a Hungarian mathematician named George Polya proved that if this criterion is true, then the Riemann hypothesis is true and vice versa. It's an old proposed route toward proving the hypothesis, but one that had been largely abandoned. Ono and his colleagues, in a paper published May 21 in the journal Proceedings of the Natural Academy of Sciences (PNAS), proved that in many, many cases, the criterion is true. But in math, many is not enough to count as a proof. There are still some cases where they don't know if the criterion is true or false. "It's like playing a million-number Powerball," Ono said. "And you know all the numbers but the last 20. If even one of those last 20 numbers is wrong, you lose. It could still all fall apart." Researchers would need to come up with an even more advanced proof to show the criterion is true in all cases, thereby proving the Riemann hypothesis. And it's not clear how far away such a proof is, Ono said. So, how big a deal is this paper? In terms of the Riemann hypothesis, it's tough to say how big a deal this is. A lot depends on what happens next. "This [criterion] is just one of many equivalent formulations of the Riemann hypothesis," Thompson said. In other words, there are a lot of other ideas that, like this criterion, would prove that the Riemann hypothesis is true if they themselves were proven. "So, it's really hard to know how much progress this is, because on the one hand it's made progress in this direction. But, there's so many equivalent formulations that maybe this direction isn't going to yield the Riemann hypothesis. Maybe one of the other equivalent theorems instead will, if someone can prove one of those," Thompson said. If the proof turns up along this track, then that will likely mean Ono and his colleagues have developed an important underlying framework for solving the Riemann hypothesis. But if it turns up somewhere else, then this paper will turn out to have been less important. Still, mathematicians are impressed. "Although this remains far away from proving the Riemann hypothesis, it is a big step forward," Encrico Bombieri, a Princeton number theorist who was not involved in the team's research, wrote in an accompanying May 23 PNAS article. "There is no doubt that this paper will inspire further fundamental work in other areas of number theory as well as in mathematical physics." (Bombieri won a Fields Medal the most prestigious prize in mathematics in 1974, in large part for work related to the Riemann hypothesis.) What does the Riemann hypothesis mean anyway? I promised we'd get back to this. Here's the Riemann hypothesis again: The real part of every non-trivial zero of the Riemann zeta function is 1/2. Let's break that down according to how Thompson and Ono explained it. First, what's the Riemann zeta function? In math, a function is a relationship between different mathematical quantities. A simple one might look like this: y = 2x. The Riemann zeta function follows the same basic principles. Only it's much more complicated. Here's what it looks like. The Riemann zeta function (Image credit: Wikimedia commons) It's a sum of an infinite sequence, where each term the first few are 1/1^s, 1/2^s and 1/3^s is added to the previous terms. Those ellipses mean the series in the function keeps going on like that, forever. Now we can answer the second question: What is a zero of the Riemann zeta function? This is easier. A "zero" of the function is any number you can put in for x that causes the function to equal zero. Next question: What's the "real part" of one of those zeros, and what does it mean that it equals 1/2? The Riemann zeta function involves what mathematicians call "complex numbers." A complex number looks like this: a+b*i. In that equation, "a" and "b" stand for any real numbers. A real number can be anything from minus 3, to zero, to 4.9234, pi, or 1 billion. But there's another kind of number: imaginary numbers. Imaginary numbers emerge when you take the square root of a negative number, and they're important, showing up in all kinds of mathematical contexts. [10 Surprising Facts About Pi] The simplest imaginary number is the square root of -1, which is written as "i." A complex number is a real number ("a") plus another real number ("b") times i. The "real part" of a complex number is that "a." A few zeros of the Riemann zeta function, negative integers between -10 and 0, don't count for the Reimann hypothesis. These are considered "trivial" zeros because theyre real numbers, not complex numbers. All the other zeros are "non-trivial" and complex numbers. The Riemann hypothesis states that when the Riemann zeta function crosses zero (except for those zeros between -10 and 0), the real part of the complex number has to equal to 1/2. That little claim might not sound very important. But it is. And we may be just a teensy bit closer to solving it. Originally published on Live Science. Flash China on Monday voiced its firm opposition to official contact between the United States and Taiwan "in any form" and "under any excuse." "China is strongly dissatisfied with and resolutely opposed to it," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said at a news briefing. According to reports, Taiwan claimed that U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton has recently held talks with his Taiwan "counterpart." In response, Lu said the U.S. government has clearly recognized the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and promised it will only maintain unofficial contacts with Taiwan. So Bolton and David Lee can't be "counterparts," he noted. The one-China principle constitutes the political foundation of Sino-U.S. relations, Lu said. "We are also firmly opposed to any attempt to create 'two Chinas' or 'one China, one Taiwan.' Our position is clear and steadfast." "We once again urge the U.S. side to adhere to the one-China principle and the three joint communiques between the two countries, stop official contact or substantively upgrading relations with Taiwan, prudently and properly handle Taiwan-related issues to avoid negative influence on Sino-U.S. relations and the two countries' cooperation in major areas," he said. Kindergarten: It's a magical place where children learn fun new ways to play together, sing together, and for some lucky tots in the south of France dig up the first bits of 5,600-year-old human remains together. That's what happened, more or less, in 2006, when a group of schoolchildren in the town of Saint-Laurent-Medoc accidentally dug up some bits of old bone in their kindergarten playground. It turns out that part of their school was built on top of an ancient burial mound which, early analysis suggested, held human remains that were thousands of years old. Now, a new study of the mound known as Le Tumulus des Sables reveals that the site is far older and far more crowded than previously thought. [The 25 Most Mysterious Archaeological Finds on Earth] Writing in the April 2019 issue of the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, a team of archaeologists excavated the mound to find no fewer than 30 individuals (20 adults and 10 children) interred in a mound only about 1.6 feet (50 centimeters) deep. More surprising still is that, according to a radiocarbon analysis of several teeth found in the pit, the deceased were placed there over a 2,000-year period, beginning in the late Neolithic era (about 3600 B.C.) and ending in the Iron Age (1250 B.C.). Why this seemingly unremarkable spot was used to host the dead for more than two millennia is a question that still vexes the researchers. "It's unusual because it's not a really obvious or prestigious [site]," lead study author Hannah James, a doctoral candidate at the Australian National University in Canberra, said in a statement. "It's not on a hill or an obvious location, so there's something else about this site which caused people to come back and use it." As for the dead, little is known except that most of them were locals. An analysis of the isotopes (versions of elements) in the dental remains showed that all of the individuals examined ate from the land, rather than fishing from the nearby river or the Atlantic Ocean. One individual seemed to have been born in a much colder climate, and may have been transported to the site after death, the researchers wrote. The mound also included a hodgepodge of grave relics, including broken ceramics, metal and animal bones. In other words, plenty of interesting material for the kindergarten's next session of show-and-tell. Originally published on Live Science. As human ancestors went from swinging through trees to walking on two legs, they may have received a boost from an unlikely source: ancient supernovas. These powerful stellar explosions may have showered Earth with enough energy to shift the planet's climate, bathing Earth in electrons and sparking powerful, lightning-filled storms, according to a new hypothesis. Lightning then could have kindled raging wildfires that scorched African landscapes. As savanna replaced the forest habitat, early humans that lived there may have been pushed to walk on two legs, the new study suggests. [Top 10 Mysteries of the First Humans] However, don't go jumping to conclusions just yet. Many factors likely contributed to the evolution of bipedalism, a process that began many millions of years before these stellar explosions took place, one expert told Live Science. Clues to the ancient supernovas were found in traces of iron-60 in Earth's crust. This radioactive isotope, or version of iron, originates in stars nearing the ends of their lives; it's thought to have arrived on Earth after the violent explosion of supernovas in our cosmic neighborhood millions of years ago, scientists wrote in the new study. Prior studies described traces of iron-60 preserved on Earth from stars that blew up, beginning around 8 million years ago. That explosive activity peaked with a supernova (or series of supernovas) that occurred about 123 light-years away from Earth about 2.6 million years ago, the scientists reported. Around that time, the dawn of the Pleistocene epoch, forests in eastern Africa began to give way to open grasslands. High-energy emissions from the supernovas may have been strong enough to penetrate the troposphere, ionizing Earth's atmosphere and affecting the planet's weather, lead study author Adrian Melott, a professor emeritus with the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Kansas, told Live Science. The researchers estimated that energy infusions from supernovas could have increased atmospheric ionization by a factor of 50; this would have greatly increased the likelihood of cloud-to-ground lightning, which in turn could have sparked more wildfires, Melott said. While the scientists could not calculate precisely how many additional lightning events would result from a 50-fold boost in ionization, "the potential is there for a large increase," they wrote in the study. Today, most wildfires are caused by human actions; before that, "lightning was the single biggest cause of wildfires," Melott explained. Forests scorched by wildfires would give way to grasslands; more open savanna meant more walking from tree to tree, which would then put evolutionary pressure on human relatives to spend more time on two legs. Yet hominins were already becoming upright walkers long before the supernova activity peaked, William Harcourt-Smith, an assistant professor of paleoanthropology with Lehman College at The City University of New York, told Live Science in an email. The first evidence for bipedalism in ancient humans dates to approximately 7 million years ago, and the transition to full bipedalism was well underway by around 4.4 million years ago, said Harcourt-Smith, who was not involved in the study. "By 3.6 million years ago, we have proficient bipeds, like 'Lucy,' and by 1.6 million years ago, [we have] obligate bipeds very similar to us," he explained. Bipedalism was energy efficient, freed up hands for carrying, and offered improved visibility of faraway predators or resources. The shift to fully upright walking "most certainly relates to the opening up of grassland habitats and adapting to this kind of environment," Harcourt-Smith said. Yet the study does not provide compelling geologic evidence of wildfires as the main cause for those dramatic changes in Africa's ancient habitats, he said. What's more, the destructive power and scope of those hypothetical wildfires hinges on a significant increase in lightning as a result of the supernovas, a variable that the researchers were "unable to estimate," they wrote in the study. The findings were published online today (May 28) in The Journal of Geology. Originally published on Live Science. The effort to cross the U.S.-Mexico border daily from to attend school has paid off for a family as Sarai Merari Ruiz became the first in her family to graduate from high school. READ MORE: Laredo high school ranked in Top 10 throughout Texas, top 100 in nation She graduated from Hector J. Garcia Early College High School Class of 2019. She is originally from Wisconsin, but at the age of 7, she and her mother, Luisa Ruiz, moved to Nuevo Laredo to be close to her father, Esteban Ruiz. "When I was 4 years old, my father was deported," Sarai said. "We decided to move to Nuevo Laredo to be close to him. That's why I cross every day to go to school." Sarai attended her graduation accompanied by her mother. "When I heard my name to receive my diploma, I thought that I am just one of many who crosses the borders of this country every day to receive an education. It is not only an achievement for me, but for my parentsfor all the effort they have made so that I can get an education," she said. When the ceremony was over, her desire for her father to see her wearing her graduation cap and gown led their meeting him at the bridge. "I decided to see my father on the bridge. More than anything because he did not come to see me at my graduation, and I wanted him to see me dressed in my cords, my medals and the achievements I had reached thanks to his efforts and my mother's. That's why, as soon as the ceremony was over, I went to the bridge so that my father could see me," she said. Sarai said she will never forget the words her father said to her when he saw her. "I remember the words perfectly, and I will never forget them: 'Nobody will ever separate us. Only God can separate us,'" Sarai said. She will leave in the fall to the University of Texas at Austin to study psychology and government with a concentration in economics. "I know it will be hard for my parents for me leave to another city, but my mother says I have to follow my dreams and that they will support me in everything I do," she said. Sarai offers a piece of advice to other students like her who have fought to receive a higher education. "My advice is to never lose faith in God, no matter how difficult the situation or because we are separated from family," she said. "You have to keep moving forward without giving up, believing in yourself and in your family because sometimes we don't believe that we can graduate or go to college--either due to finances or your parents don't support you, but if you can believe in yourself, you can reach your goals," READ MORE: United ISD student gets perfect score on AP exam Finally, Sarai asks that the community be aware of all children and teenagers who make an effort to cross the border daily and to encourage them as they pursue an education to help their families move forward. A Laredo student's video of a touching moment between a father and his daughter has been viewed more than a million times on Facebook. In the video, Early College High School student Sarai Ruiz is shown meeting her father, Esteban Ruiz, in the middle of the Laredo International Bridge dressed in her full graduation regalia. They then embrace on the bridge, sharing a moment that has gone on to be viewed the world over on Facebook. A Laredo man uses his experience and knowledge to help and honor veterans not just on Memorial Day, but every day. Retired United States Army National Guard First Sergeant Paul Torres said he is very honored and proud to be given the opportunity to speak about how he feels about the service men and women who have given so much for their country. READ MORE: Laredo ISD graduate shares story behind viral video of meeting on international bridge Laredo College hosted a Memorial Day Observance ceremony Monday at the Private David B. Barkeley Cantu Veterans Memorial Chapel. "I know people keep repeating the same things but I just want to share my feelings that I do appreciate the sacrifice of my fellow brothers and sisters," Torres said. Torres said he wants to community to stand and take care of its veterans. "All the soldiers that passed away fighting for our country better not be for nothing," he said. "Let's make sure we doe something. Honor them by rejoicing in life and living to the fullest and making life better." Torres is the program manager for the Veterans Treatment Program in the 406th District Court. The program is a voluntary three-phased program with the 406th and 341st District Court that lasts approximately 13 to 18 months. Torres enlisted in the Texas Army National Guard on January 1990 as a chemical biological radiological nuclear and high yield explosives specialist and served for almost 24 years retiring 20 years of active duty. He said being a veteran himself and having staff consisting of veterans has helped those in the program feel connected and understood. "One of the things I notice is that veterans, when they leave the battlefield, sometimes the battlefield comes with them," Torres said. "It is important to address veteran mental health, their (post-traumatic stress disorder) and veteran suicide. I think veterans should be cared for. I think when they sign that dotted line their government, community and country owes it to them to ensure that resources are available to them." READ MORE: Local WWII veteran laid to rest after receiving corporal stripes He said he encourages the community to support veterans and do all they can to help and honor them. "Somebody's got to be a teacher. Somebody's got to be a doctor. Somebody's got to be the soldier," Torres said. "Allow them to do their job by honoring their work. In the military they're going to teach you to have compassion and save a life, sometimes you need to take a life. The mission is tough. Not everyone wants to do the job." "For those that do, allow them to have faith that their county has their back and if things get tough they have someone to hold them and they're not alone." Laredo College President Ricardo Solis said Memorial Day is significant because the college is a fort. "Established over 140 years ago to protect and train men to protect the country and it has evolved throughout the century to become a place of learning institution to educate our students and our citizens," Solis said. He said that just as the veterans' duty was to serve our duty is to remember what they did. Memorial Day in Laredo The Korean War Veterans and the Daughters of the American Revolution held a Memorial Day ceremony in Jarvis Plaza to remember the 69th anniversary of the Korean War. Ernesto Sanchez Jr., Korean War Veteran, said this year the ceremony honored those soldiers Missing in Action. U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar was recognized and honored for his dedication and support of all veterans. Sanchez Jr. was 24-years-old when he served in the Korean War. He was in three battles and was in Heartbrake Ridge when the cease-fire was ordered. At 90-years-old, Sanchez Jr. said war is still very difficult. He said he lost three of his friends: one was shot in the head, another stepped on a mine and another lost his reason. READ MORE: Laredo native protects US Navy forces in the Middle East During the ceremony, names of those that lost their lives and those missing in action were read aloud. Following the ceremony in Jarvis Plaza, the community was invited to another observance ceremony hosted by the American Legion Post 59 at the Laredo City Cemetery. 406th District Court Judge Oscar Hale was the guest speaker. In honor of those servicemen and women who lost their lives in battle, the U.S. flag was flown at half mast. For more information on the Veterans Treatment Program call 523-4954. Maria Salas may be reached at msalas@lmtonline.com On this date in ... 1919: A 17-year-old wife, Eva Spain Albright, won the divorce suit brought against her by Frank Albright, 21, in state Supreme Court in Troy. The judge ruled that during the month-long union the "fraud and fear" the husband alleged was "brought to bear upon him" by his wife was non-existent, and that an annulment on his behalf was denied. Albright instead had to pay alimony to the former Eva Spain. The judge also bemoaned the "carelessness" of youth that led to these actions. The couple had become acquainted due to a flirtation and then quickly got married following "relations warranting such a ceremony." 1969: At the annual meeting of the North Colonie school district, two anti-school budget board candidates were outnumbered by at least eight board candidates who spoke for the budget. More than 100 people, including teachers and students, came to Shaker High School to hear board President George Ansell explain the budget and listen as the 10 school board candidates outlined their positions. One candidate was Julia Kilby, who said she would vote for the budget, and was running to replace Louise Wise, because "there should be a female on the board. It can be an advantage to have a woman's point of view." 1994: The roses your sweetheart bought in Albany actually could have been picked by a field worker in Colombia or Israel, and the carnations were probably from Italy, Ecuador or Kenya; the lilies, from Belgium or Swaziland; and the tulips and alstromeria, from Holland. Even the most commonplace daisy and carnation were rarely grown locally anymore. As the floral industry moved into the jet age, once rare or only seasonal blooms could sit on your table every day of the year. Most local florists purchased their stocks of cut flowers through three major wholesale houses: Seagroatt-Riccardi in Colonie, Seagroatt Floral Co. in Albany and Nyren Bros. in Clifton Park. Want to read more about the Capital Region's past? Have any memories or thoughts about how our history relates to today's events? See http://blog.timesunion.com/history/ A Mexican citizen said he was promised 50,000 Mexican pesos, or about $2,600, to smuggle methamphetamines through the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge. READ MORE: 'Report your competition' hotline nets one arrest in south Laredo Martin Alejandro Aguilar-Zapata, 55, out of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, was charged with import, attempt to import and conspire to import meth. Homeland Security Investigations special agents said the case unfolded May 18. Aguilar-Zapata arrived at the Juarez-Lincoln bridge in a 2003 Honda Accord bearing Mexican license plates. A secondary inspection of the vehicle yielded 35 packages concealed within the rear bumper and spare tire area of the trunk, according to court documents. The packages contained 24 pounds of meth, according to the arrest affidavit. Aguilar-Zapata allegedly agreed to a post-arrest interview with HSI special agents. He allegedly stated that a male instructed him to drive the car from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, to Dallas and await further instructions. Aguilar-Zapata knew he was transporting narcotics concealed within the vehicle, special agents said. READ MORE: Man wanted in connection with theft from Laredo Target "The unknown male promised to pay Aguilar-Zapata 50,000 Mexican pesos upon delivery of the narcotics laden vehicle to a predetermined location in Dallas, Texas," states the affidavit. Flash China's top legislator Li Zhanshu met with Veroljub Arsic, deputy speaker of the National Assembly of Serbia, in Beijing on Monday, calling for closer bilateral ties. Calling China and Serbia "sincere friends of each other," Li, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), said the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership has been lifted to a new high under the guidance of the two heads of state. Bilateral pragmatic cooperation has been at the forefront of the Belt and Road cooperation, Li added. He called on both countries to consolidate traditional friendship, continue to firmly support each other on core interests and issues of major concern, set examples of political mutual trust, common development and people-to-people exchanges so as to build a closer community with shared interests and a shared future. Li also called on the two legislatures to enhance cooperation in areas including legislation, supervision and governance in order to better implement the consensus of the two heads of state. Arsic said the National Assembly of Serbia stands ready to intensify exchanges with the NPC and give full play to the cooperation committee between the legislatures of Serbia and China, to make new contributions to boosting practical cooperation between the two countries and friendship between the two peoples. A recent tip to the Webb County Sheriff's Office "Report Your Competition" hotline landed one man behind bars, authorities said. The Sheriff's Office said they received information about suspicious activity in the 300 block of Ocean Drive in the Fiesta Subdivision off of Texas 359. BEIJING - One is a star of one of President Donald Trump's favorite television networks, Fox Business. The other is a polished debater on Chinese state media known for her confidence in China's rise and scorn for "biased" Western media. After weeks of back-and-forth sniping on television and Twitter, Trish Regan from the Fox Business Network and Liu Xin from China Global Television Network are facing off Wednesday night on Regan's show to argue on behalf of their respective governments about tariffs and technology. The debate might be just another weeknight segment for Fox Business, but it's eagerly anticipated in China, where nationalism and distaste for the United States are running high as the White House tightens the screws on Beijing in their ongoing trade dispute. "With anchorwomen like her, and companies like Huawei, why would China need to worry about its rise?" read a typical patriotic comment on Chinese social media praising Liu, who is one of China's best known faces despite her regular show appearing on an English-language channel. Hashtags about the upcoming debate have been viewed upward of 150 million times, with some Weibo posts retweeted tens of thousands of times. Nearly all of China's tightly controlled state media outlets have covered the Liu vs Regan showdown, often framing the anchor as a symbol of Chinese toughness and rationality. Liu's employer CGTN - the international division of China's all-powerful China Central Television network, or CCTV - has hailed the clash between the two anchors as nothing less than a "historic first." From the Chinese government perspective, the debate may be a small victory before Liu even utters a word on Fox Business. Over the past decade, the ruling Communist Party has invested heavily to push its state media into the global conversation and shape international discourse. While many Western outlets have shrunk, Chinese organizations like CCTV and the Xinhua News Agency, once the key cogs of the domestic propaganda machinery, have turned their attention outward and expanded aggressively. The state organizations have spent millions on state-of-the-art hubs in New York, London, Cairo and Nairobi, where hundreds of its journalists work. Newspapers like the party-run People's Daily these days curate English-language feeds on Facebook and Twitter - services banned inside China - that share everything from Foreign Ministry statements to panda videos. Chinese leader Xi Jinping, meanwhile, has demanded state media pledge "absolute loyalty" to the Communist Party and, above all else, "tell China's story well" to the outside world. Now with Chinese state media getting bigger and bolder - so are its reporters. Chen Weihua, the former chief Washington correspondent for party-owned China Daily, an influential English-language newspaper, said it was "healthy" that someone like Liu was going toe-to-toe with Regan. Unlike previous generations, Chen said, some Chinese state media reporters are increasingly happy to tangle with Western reporters, for instance on Twitter. "The influence of Western media is disproportionate, and you can't avoid their overwhelming disinformation about China," said Chen, now China Daily's Brussels bureau chief. "That's why China wants its news organizations well-represented so China's story is told by Chinese journalists, not by Western journalists." Liu and Regan first squared off two weeks ago, when Regan argued on her show that U.S. tariffs were a necessary response to China stealing $600 billion worth of technology. Liu then took direct aim at Regan on her talk show, "The Point with Liu Xin," and criticized the Fox Business anchor's argument as "all emotion" and "little substance." The two exchanged more salvos on-air. They traded tweets. Regan invited Liu to debate. A date was set: May 29. Regan, who isn't exactly known for her adversarial stance toward the Trump administration, will face off Wednesday with a woman who is unapologetic about championing China. An English major from eastern China who speaks flawless English, some French, German and Turkish, Liu became the first Chinese student to win an international public speaking competition in London in 1996. She joined CCTV after graduating and became one of its highest-profile correspondents, covering events like President Barack Obama's state visit to Beijing, the Iran nuclear talks and the conflict in Syria. Liu, who is married to German man of Turkish descent, said she spent 10 years telling "the China story" to her husband and children and found them swayed by negative Western media portrayals of her country. "They respond by saying, 'oh, Mom is praising China again,'" she told Thepaper.com in 2017. "The same is true for my job: I need to lay out the facts and speak with reason. I want to win over the foreign audience." When she speaks to Chinese peers, Liu urges them to be more assertive and self-confident. Last January, Liu told Chinese reporters in Beijing that "China has always been the subject of Western media criticism, often downright bashing based on falsehoods." The country's economic rise reflected "the validity and rationality of its development path, showing its confidence in its path, theories, institutions and culture," she said. "It reinforces reporters' confidence in telling fantastic Chinese stories based on China's successful practices." Liu's profile is soaring at a time when her employer is increasingly scrutinized by the U.S. government - precisely for its advocacy. Last year, the Justice Department ordered CCTV's U.S. division to register as an agent of foreign influence. Particularly as China's stature rose the last decade, some CCTV correspondents have embraced overt displays of nationalism. In 2011, Rui Chenggang, a young CCTV star, famously asked the U.S. ambassador to Beijing, Gary Locke, if he flew economy because it was reminder that the United States owed China money. This year, a CCTV London correspondent, Kong Linlin, was charged with assault by British police after she slapped a man twice at a political conference in a heated argument about China's role in Hong Kong. If CCTV reporters are increasingly engaging their peers outside China, they've also taken occasional aim at Western correspondents at home. In 2012, the veteran anchor Yang Rui celebrated China expelling an female American correspondent for Al Jazeera with a derogatory comment, saying those who demonize China should get lost. (Yang later apologized.) Last year, a CCTV reporter went on a lengthy on-air jeremiad criticizing the BBC's coverage of China's annual political conferences as inappropriate and unfair. Shortly after that, China's Foreign Ministry punished the British broadcaster by temporarily holding up visa renewals. That reporter's name? Liu Xin. At a parliamentary hearing in Ottawa on Tuesday sat two name cards - "Mark Zuckerberg" and "Sheryl Sandberg" - and two empty chairs. For the second time in less than a year, Facebook's founder and its COO declined to appear before an international committee of lawmakers from nearly a dozen countries who are investigating privacy, big data and democracy. This did not please the Canadian hosts of the committee, who blasted the pair for not appearing, and the panel issued an unusual, open-ended summons: Zuckerberg and Sandberg will be required to come before Parliament should they venture to Canada for any reason. "If Mr. Zuckerberg or Ms. Sandberg decides to come here for a tech conference, or to go fishing, Parliament will be able to serve that summons and have them brought here," said Charlie Angus, a member of the left-wing New Democratic Party. If they entered the country and didn't appear before the committee, Parliament could hold them in contempt, said Bob Zimmer, a Conservative who chairs the House of Commons Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics. While the threat seemed mostly symbolic, Tuesday's hearing showed again that anger and frustration with Facebook is real - and arguably growing. In recent years, the company has been dogged by allegations that it is dodging responsibility for the spread of disinformation on the social network and not protecting users' personal information - accusations repeated before the international committee Tuesday. The committee - officially called the International Grand Committee on Big Data, Privacy and Democracy - is made up of representatives from Canada, Britain, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, France, Ireland, Latvia and Singapore. The group first met in London last year. Zuckerberg was invited but did not show up. Though other technology companies, including Google, were summoned to the Ottawa gathering, it was Facebook's decision to send relatively junior representatives that drew the most outrage. Zimmer called the top executives' absence "abhorrent." "Shame on Mark Zuckerberg and shame on Sheryl Sandberg for not showing up today," he said during the hearing, according to CNN. As the hearing progressed, lawmakers grilled Facebook's representatives on its handling of disinformation, casting the company as a threat to democratic institutions. Damian Collins, a British lawmaker, pressed Facebook on why it had not removed a digitally manipulated video of U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., that went viral last week. The company's director of public policy, Neil Potts, countered that Facebook had done something - it downranked the video, making the content less likely to appear in users' news feeds. In separate testimony, former Facebook adviser Roger McNamee urged governments to close such platforms until they are completely overhauled. "At the end of the day, though, the most effective path to reform would be to shut down the platforms at least temporarily," McNamee said, according to the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. "Any country can go first. The platforms have left you no choice. The time has come to call their bluff." Though Canadian lawmakers did not announce any next steps, their anger was evident. Nathaniel Erskine-Smith of the governing Liberal Party mocked Zuckerberg for vowing, in a recent op-ed for The Washington Post, to keep talking to lawmakers. "If he was an honest individual writing those words," Erskine-Smith said, "he'd be sitting in that chair." WASHINGTON - Lambda Legal and other civil rights groups are asking the courts strike down a Department of Health and Human Services "conscience" rule that is set to dramatically expand the situations in which health providers, insurers and others could refuse to provide or pay for services that they say violate their religious or moral beliefs. The lawsuit filed Friday in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California claims the policy, which was published May 21, is unconstitutional and exceeds the HHS' statutory authority. President Donald Trump personally announced the rule during a speech before faith leaders who say the protections are necessary because of ineffectual enforcement of existing statutes protecting such decisions. The plaintiffs represent health care providers, community centers, and LGBTQ and women's rights groups across the country - from Seattle and Los Angeles to Allentown, Pennsylvania and Washington. They emphasized that while transgender individuals may be most vulnerable to discrimination under the rule, it would affect all Americans. "This rule erodes trust between patients and providers," said Jamie Gliksberg, senior attorney at Lambda Legal. Gliksberg said there has always been a balance between patients' right to care and providers' right to decline services such as abortion, assisted suicide and sterilization. The new policy, she said, "disturbs that balance." According to the complaint, the new policy "creates a wholly new regime that elevates religious objections over all other interests and values." Among the allegations in the suit are that the rule "violates patients' rights to privacy, liberty, dignity, and autonomy" by imposing conditions that unduly burden patients' access to medically necessary health care and "chills constitutionally protected First Amendment activity, such as a patient's ability to disclose or express their sexual orientation," they wrote. The rule is one of a number of new socially conservative HHS polices - such as new funding criteria for providers of family planning services that abortion providers fear will shut them out - that are under a court challenge. Earlier this month, San Francisco City Attorney Dennis Herrera filed suit against the HHS, saying the new conscience rules are discriminatory and prioritize "providers' religious beliefs over the health and lives of women, lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender people, and other medically and socially vulnerable populations." The new challenge is being filed by Lambda Legal, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and the Center for Reproductive Rights. Plaintiffs include California's Santa Clara County, the Los Angeles LGBT Center and the Washington-based Whitman-Walker Health. Considering Alamedas commanding position in San Francisco Bay, its no surprise the destination has been so important to the United States Coast Guard through the years. Specifically, the Island City became a Coast Guard City in 2006, and Base Alameda, the base on Coast Guard Island in the Oakland Estuary, provides a wide variety of services in direct support of the maritime branch of the military. Today the base is one of the largest in the country. We like to think of the organization here as a set of nesting dolls, says Lt. Cmdr. Matthew Kroll, public affairs officer. In terms of areas of responsibility, we go from big to small. The goal: To keep everyone safe. Perhaps most important, Base Alameda serves as the Coast Guards Pacific Area headquarters. This means the base and its four cutters oversee all maritime security in the Pacific Ocean more than 950 million square miles of coverage. The most senior command in the Western Hemisphere is stationed right here in the person of Vice Admiral Linda Fagan. The base also monitors activity in what is known as District 11, an area that encompasses all the waterways in California, Arizona, Nevada and Utah. A special unit even keeps tabs on some of the things happening in and around San Francisco Bay. Given these assignments, over the years Coast Guard members based out of Alameda have been involved in everything from cleaning up oil spills to capturing drugs and engineering rescues. According to Kroll, sometimes Alamedas finest even are deployed to pitch in with efforts in the Atlantic Ocean. (In these cases, they go through the Panama Canal.) The base also offers everything from a grocery store to a fitness facility and more. All told, it is the nexus of everyday life for nearly 4,000 Coast Guard members stationed around the bay. The base plays a vital role in the Alameda community, too. Base leadership regularly works with local veteran organizations, allowing chapters to host meetings and luncheons free of charge. The base also puts on the Coast Guard Festival as part of annual Independence Day festivities. This event plays out like a fair with interactive recruiting and equipment on display. This years festival will be the third annual. In addition, the base hosts a somber annual Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony, and it organizes an annual weekend-long Special Olympics-style competition for wounded veterans known as the Valor Games. Barbara Price, who has volunteered for the Coast Guard for 23 years, notes that so many Coasties live on the island these days, the base and the surrounding area are like one big happy family. [The base] really has become part of the rich and diverse fabric of Alameda, said Price, who also has sat on commissioning committees for recent cutters. At this point, I couldnt imagine one without the other. Kroll says it still amazes him how many people dont even know about the base, but he admits that that the facilities are pretty well hidden from Interstate 880, the bridges across the Oakland Estuary, and where non-government folks might see them. He adds that the base is particularly unrecognizable when the cutters are gone, which is often. One key to overcoming this phenomenon is to simply raise awareness that the Coast Guard is so close. While civilians arent allowed on base, Coast Guard members can and do get out into the community, answering questions, telling stories and generally fraternizing with the locals. Everything about our relationship with Alameda has grown over time, Kroll said. Weve got to do our part to make sure it continues to grow in the right direction. Southampton For the legion of rich and famous in New York City, the unofficial start of summer means migrating east by luxury vehicle to the Hamptons, that slice of exclusivity at the end of Long Island. But this Memorial Day weekend they were greeted with a jarring new sight along an otherwise piney, bucolic stretch of Sunrise Highway, the main artery leading to the Hamptons: two six-story illuminated billboards being hastily constructed by a local Native American tribe just in time for the high season. The twin billboards with bright electronic display panels operating around the clock are about as far from the standards of the Hamptons as could be imagined. The billboards are being put up by the Shinnecock Indian Nation, a tribe that for many centuries before this area was settled by Europeans in the 1600s occupied wide expanses of what is now some of the priciest real estate in the world and a summertime playground for the 1 percent. Besides the 1,550-member tribe's modest reservation nearby, the small parcel spanning the highway at the billboards' site is nearly the only land the Shinnecock still retain. The tribe is partnering with an outdoor advertising company to run local ads on the billboards, as well as national campaigns for high-end brands like Rolex, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Its members are determined to use the revenue as an economic engine to revitalize the tribe. But the billboards have infuriated much of the Hamptons, where such signs violate government regulations. Stop-work orders have been issued by state and town officials who call them eyesores and distractions to drivers. The tribe had defied a cease-and-desist order from the state Department of Transportation, as well as a stop-work order from the agency delivered by state troopers to the work site, said Bryan Polite, the tribe's chairman. But on Friday, after state officials initiated legal action against the tribe to halt construction, a state Supreme Court judge issued a temporary restraining order against further work. Still, the sign on the eastbound side of the highway was completed and remained in operation through the weekend. The signs are "clearly out of character" with the town's low-rise, low-key style, said Jay Schneiderman, Southampton's town supervisor. The signs "violate the spirit of our local ordinances meant to protect the rural character of the town" and keep the area an attractive escape for New Yorkers, he said. "The summer crowd comes here to escape the metropolis, only to find this urban element at the gateway to the Hamptons," he said. But the Shinnecock insist that their sovereign status exempts them from government rules. For weeks, they ignored government orders and continued to rush the signs up as officials scrambled to see if they could stop them. Tribal leaders say they will meet Tuesday to decide how to respond to Friday's court order so they can finish erecting the other sign. "We don't recognize their authority on our sovereign lands," Polite said. The ads are targeted at the wealthy summer crowd driving past, often very slowly, in the notoriously congested Hamptons traffic. Tribal members have been standing sentry at the construction site on the grassy shoulder of the highway, creating the possibility of a showdown if authorities try to halt construction. SEOUL, South Korea - Despite talk by both President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un of the country's commitment to development and its economic potential, the people of the reclusive nation face a web of corruption, deprivation and official crackdowns that denies them an adequate standard of living, a new U.N. report states Tuesday. The United Nations Human Rights Office called for a drastic reform in North Korea where failure of the centralized economic planning has pushed its people to seek their livelihoods in a precarious parallel economy. The U.N. investigation showed how the rudimentary markets where North Korean people access basic necessities operate in a legal gray area, exposing them to threats of arbitrary arrest, detention and extortion. The report gathers testimonies from more than 200 North Koreans who fled to South Korea. "We might be referring to [them] as not escapees but entrepreneurs," if not for the unfavorable environment in North Korea, said Signe Poulsen, Korea representative of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights. Since Pyongyang's centralized economic planning and distribution collapsed in 1990s, North Korean people have had to seek alternate sources of income away from state-assigned jobs and official food rations. "If you just follow instructions coming from the state, you starve to death," a woman from Ryanggang Province in North Korea, was quoted as saying in the report. Many North Koreans seek a living through rudimentary markets, while paying bribes to get out of duties at official state-assigned jobs, according to the report. The uncertain legal environment surrounding the markets exposes the merchants to arbitrary threats of detention and extortion, and livelihoods depend on being able to bribe state officials. One defector, Oh Ji-ye told The Washington Post how she was arbitrarily detained by the police while procuring crops for sale from farmers. "Sitting in the pitch-dark cell, I questioned in fury why my legitimate efforts to earn a living landed me in this jail," said Oh, who had been a market merchant in North Korea for three years before escaping to South Korea in 2014. The then-20-year-old had to bribe her way out of detention. The U.N. urged Pyongyang to end prosecuting legitimate market activities and respect the freedom of movement so that the North Korean people could make a living. North Korea rejected the report as "fabricated information" that is "politically motivated" in a statement to Reuters via the country's mission to the United Nations in Geneva. Experts question whether the Trump administration's offer of a prosperous future in exchange for North Korea denuclearizing will really result in Kim giving his people more socioeconomic freedoms. "No one knows what a 'bright future' for North Korea means in practice. None of Kim Jong Un's economic reforms so far have been very far-reaching." said Benjamin Katzeff Silberstein, a Templeton Fellow at Foreign Policy Research Institute. "Even though the state has granted some room to the market, people still have to pay bribes to get by in much of the system." The U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, called for greater attention to the rights of ordinary people in North Korea while the international community pursues diplomatic engagement with the regime. "I am concerned that the constant focus on the nuclear issue continues to divert attention from the terrible state of human rights for many millions of North Koreans," she said. Flash Four people including a police and three militants were confirmed dead and five others sustained injuries as Taliban militants stormed a police checkpoint in Ali Abad district of the northern Kunduz province on Tuesday, a police spokesman for the restive province Inamudin Rahmani said. According to the official, a group of Taliban insurgents stormed a police checkpoint in Ali Abad district Tuesday morning. Police returned fire, killing three attackers on the spot and forcing the militants to flee. However, Rahmani has confirmed that one police constable had been killed in the firefight lasted for a while. Two police and three armed insurgents were also injured in the fighting, the official said. Taliban militants haven't commented. NORMAN, Okla. - Motivated by greed, Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiaries deliberately flooded the market with prescription painkillers, deceptively promoted them and stood by as the opioid epidemic flourished, lawyers for the state of Oklahoma argued Tuesday, as a trial examining the company's role in the drug crisis began. The company countered that its products make up just a tiny portion of the painkillers that have been consumed in Oklahoma, and it said its business - from the poppy farms of Tasmania to its products in U.S. drugstores - is closely regulated by federal and state agencies. With manufacturers, distributors, doctors and pharmacists all involved in bringing painkillers to patients, the state cannot prove that Johnson & Johnson caused rampant addiction and overdose deaths, its attorney said. The health-care conglomerate's conduct has emerged as an early test of whether the pharmaceutical industry will be forced to pay billions of dollars to more than 1,600 cities, counties, states, Native American tribes and others across the United States that have sued to recover the costs of coping with the crisis. Those defendants include manufacturers, distributors, chain drugstores and others. Many of the lawsuits are consolidated in an enormous federal case in Ohio that is scheduled to begin in October. But Judge Thad Balkman, who is hearing the case here in Oklahoma without a jury, insisted on Tuesday's court date, making the civil trial in the Cleveland County courthouse the first to get underway. The legal arguments unveiled before a packed gallery of lawyers, experts, media and the public are expected to be echoed at future trials. Two earlier defendants in the case - pharmaceutical manufacturers Purdue Pharma and Teva Pharmaceuticals - settled separately with the state for $270 million and $85 million, respectively. Earlier this month, a North Dakota judge threw out another case against Purdue. More than 400,000 people died of opioid overdoses between 1999 and 2017, about half of them from prescription drugs. More than 2 million Americans suffer from an opioid use disorder. Lawyers for the state honed in on that toll as the case began Tuesday morning. State Attorney General Mike Hunter told Balkman that 4,653 Oklahomans died of overdoses between 2007 and 2017, in what he termed "the worst man-made public health crisis in the history of our country and this state." He accused Johnson & Johnson, its subsidiary, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, and other drug companies of mounting "a cynical, deceitful, multimillion-dollar brainwashing campaign to establish opioid analgesics as the magic drug" for pain beginning in the 1990s, when health care providers came under mounting pressure to treat pain more aggressively. One of the more dramatic moments came when attorney Bradley Beckworth showed what he said were notes written by a Janssen sales representative named Melinda Dickson after a 2004 visit with an unnamed Tulsa physician. The doctor was concerned about the company's Duragesic fentanyl patch being diverted to illegal use on the street. "Emphasized when someone does divert, it's usually not repeated," Dickson wrote. "Either fatal or they do not get affect they are looking for." Beckworth said the note, and others like it, showed that Janssen managers were aware of the damage pharmaceutical opioids were causing but instead of speaking up, "chose to exploit it." Beckworth also said Johnson & Johnson and Janssen repeatedly downplayed the risk of opioid addiction and overdose. Through subsidiaries Tasmanian Alkaloids and Noramco, the company set out to dramatically increase the amount of the ingredient thebaine needed to manufacture Purdue Pharma's drug OxyContin and others, he said. And the company worked hard to develop a poppy plant with increased concentrations of the substance, Beckworth alleged, rewarding the employee responsible for producing the better poppy with a medal. "If you oversupply, people will die," Beckworth repeated throughout his portion of the arguments, which lasted more than an hour. The state is seeking as much as $17.5 billion during the next few decades to "abate" the drug crisis through treatment programs, syringe exchanges and other services for substance abusers. The notion that the money will pay to mitigate future harms is a key, contested point in the trial, because under the state's theory that the company caused a "public nuisance" through its conduct, it is not entitled to ask for damages. Johnson & Johnson attorney Larry Ottaway took on most of the accusations directly. He played a video the company distributed that warns teens about the dangers of abusing prescription drugs and highlighted labels on Duragesic and the pill Nucynta that warn of the risk of "addiction, abuse and misuse" that can lead to "overdose and death." Ottaway ran through a litany of federal and state agencies that regulate opioids, from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to the state's own Drug Utilization Review Board. He noted that many factors influence a doctor's decision about whether to prescribe opioids. Those include education, clinical experience, medical literature, other physicians, continuing education classes, and company salespeople. He said the state cannot trace a single case of addiction or overdose death specifically to a Janssen medication. The company, Ottaway asserted, tries to address patients' pain while balancing the need for its medications against the risk of abuse, as the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend. "Serious, chronic pain is a soul-stealing, life-robbing thief," he said. "It leads to depression. It leads to suicide." TOKYO - One 12-year-old schoolgirl and a man were killed, and a dozen other schoolgirls were wounded after a Japanese man carrying two knives stabbed a group of children at a bus stop just outside Tokyo on Tuesday, police and hospital officials told local media. Police said the man suspected of carrying out the attack had also died after stabbing himself in the neck, according to state broadcaster NHK. The children, thought to be between the ages of 6 and 12, were students at a private Catholic school and were boarding their bus when the man attacked about 7:45 a.m. in Kawasaki, according to NHK. Dai Nagase, an official with the Kawasaki Fire Department said 19 people had been injured, three of whom were not breathing, local media reported. One local hospital said one man in his 50s had died and four people had been seriously injured, including three girls and one woman in her 40s, while another hospital said an adult man in his 30s had also been confirmed dead. NHK quoted a bus driver as saying he saw the man carrying two knives approach the children and start stabbing them one by one. Two knives were found nearby while there were pools of blood at the scene, the Kyodo News agency reported. "I heard a man and a woman screaming," a 50-year-old woman who lives in the neighborhood told Kyodo. "I rushed out of my house and saw many ambulances." The attack happened as President Donald Trump was in Japan on a four-day state visit. "On behalf of the first lady and myself, I want to take a moment to send our prayers and sympathy to the victims of the stabbing attack this morning in Tokyo," Trump said in a speech on a Japanese aircraft carrier. "All Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and for their families." Hiroaki Takamatsu, the director general of Caritas Elementary School in Kawasaki, told reporters he was saddened to hear of the attack and was "lost for words for the parents," adding that the school would meet with them Tuesday evening. Violent crime is rare in Japan, and gun-ownership laws are strict, but there are occasional high-profile attacks, often using knives or vehicles as weapons. Earlier this month, a man left two knives on the school desk of a young Japanese prince. Police said the man confessed to intending to stab 12-year-old Prince Hisahito, who one day stands to inherit the Chrysanthemum Throne, because he disagreed with the imperial system. Another man drove a minivan into a group of people celebrating in Tokyo just after New Year's Eve midnight, injuring eight people, in what he said was a protest at the death penalty. In 2016, a man who said he wanted to kill disabled people carried out a knife attack on a care facility where he had worked, killing 19 and wounding 26 more. In 2010, 13 people were injured when a man who said he wanted to end his life went on a stabbing rampage on a school bus and a commuter bus in a Tokyo suburb. Two years earlier, a 28-year-old man drove a truck into a crowded pedestrian crossing in Tokyo, killing three people, and then descended from the vehicle to fatally stab four more. - - - Freelance journalist Akiko Kashiwagi contributed to this report. PIGEON Scheurer Hospital in Pigeon plans on putting on its third annual Spark in the Park to educate folks about how to live a healthy lifestyle. The event will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. on Friday at Pigeon Recreation Park. Scheurer spokesperson Kelli Braun said this event focuses on wellness, helping people realize how they can be more active and live a healthier life. Kids can learn various stretches they can do at home, make first aid kits, and make healthy food portions for their meals. They also will be able to play on inflatables. Blood pressure screenings will be available, along with Wii bowling, a prize wheel, rehab services and information about Michigans advance directives. A complimentary dinner buffet will be served from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Braun said organizers expect around 300 people to attend the event, though it does depend on the weather. It has been growing every year, Braun said, noting that around 300 people attended Spark in the Park last year. Other organizations that are anticipated to be at Spark in the Park include Senior Living Services, Sandy Shores Wellness Center, the Huron County Department of Health and Human Services, Bay Port State Bank and Huron Behavioral Health. Grand prizes will be given away toward the end of the event, all of which are geared towards health and wellness. For more information, visit scheurer.org or Scheurer Hospitals Facebook page. MOSCOW - When members of the Taliban and Afghan politicians met Tuesday in the Russian capital for talks aimed at ending the war in their country, one face in particular stood out: Abdul Ghani Baradar, a co-founder of the Taliban and the head of its political office, who spoke publicly for the first time about the need for a peace deal. Baradar's comments showed that the insurgency's leadership was willing to advance peace talks and signaled that efforts to end the protracted U.S.-led war in Afghanistan could be gaining momentum despite continued deadly attacks by the Taliban across the country. "The Islamic Emirate is firmly committed to peace, but the first step is to remove obstacles and end the occupation of Afghanistan," Baradar said, referring to the Taliban by the group's preferred name. The Taliban has repeatedly called for the full withdrawal of U.S. forces before any peace settlement can be agreed upon. The United States has 14,000 troops in the country. Sitting near Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at a large round table in a central Moscow hotel, Baradar addressed a room full of Afghan power brokers, many of whom are political rivals of President Ashraf Ghani. As with previous meetings involving the Taliban, no members of the government in Kabul, whom the Taliban views as American "puppets," attended. Before Baradar's remarks, Lavrov reiterated Russia's call for a total pullout of foreign forces for a political solution to be found to end the war. Russia, which suffered its own crushing defeat in Afghanistan in 1989 after a decade-long war, has been reasserting itself ahead of Washington's planned drawdown of its troops, which President Donald Trump says will come after progress in any possible peace settlement. The peace talks in Russia have run parallel to talks between the Taliban and the United States, and the Kremlin has built up a military presence along Afghanistan's northern edge. Baradar - a political strategist who is believed to have played a key role in regrouping the insurgency after the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan in 2001 toppled the Taliban regime - was released from a Pakistani jail last year at the request of the American government because U.S. negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad thought Baradar could play a constructive role in talks. He was arrested in 2010 in a joint operation by Pakistani and American agents. While Baradar participated in closed-door peace talks with Khalilzad earlier this month in the Qatari capital of Doha, his appearance in Moscow is likely to establish his legitimacy as the new public face of the Taliban. Donning black-rimmed glasses and sporting a salt-and-pepper beard, Baradar took center place as the 14-member Taliban delegation made a dramatic entrance into the hotel ahead of the talks, climbing up the stairs in unison. The group of insurgents will hold talks through Thursday in Moscow with former president Hamid Karzai; a 25-member delegation of Afghanistan's High Peace Council; Hanif Atmar, Afghanistan's powerful former national security adviser; and influential factional leaders Mohammed Mohaqeq and Atta Mohammad Noor. Atmar, who worked for Ghani until last year, is considered a serious contender in presidential elections scheduled for September, which could see the president's ouster after five years of rule. Many Afghans, especially women, have expressed fears that a peace deal with the Taliban could curtail freedoms and rights that have been won since the regime ended. The Taliban has said the rights of women would be protected if they return to power, as long as they are within Islamic principles. Women's rights activists have chafed at this, saying it leaves much to interpretation. "We will continue to press the issue of women's rights so they understand what is at stake," said Tajwar Kakar, one of two Afghan women present at the 47-seat table Tuesday. "The Taliban are also Afghans," said Kakar, who fought against the Soviets in the 1980s and later campaigned for girls' education. "We should all work for the same goal of peace." - - - The Washington Post's Sharif Hassan in Kabul contributed to this report. The old saw that partisan politics should stop "at the water's edge" has never sounded so quaint. It is yet another example of a civic norm that eroded over decades only to be discarded entirely during the Trump era. By both sides. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Arthur Vandenberg, R-Mich., inserted the term into the lexicon in 1947 as he converted from isolationist to internationalist. In the wake of World War II, he backed up Harry Truman on the formation of institutions that remain critical to American security, including NATO. Seven decades later, the country that pulled the United States into that war by attacking Pearl Harbor is an indispensable ally. Visiting Tokyo this weekend, President Donald Trump repeatedly ripped Joe Biden, who leads in the early polls of Democrats vying to replace him. He even sought to weaponize Kim Jong Un against the former vice president, tweeting that he appreciated recent propaganda put out by North Korean state media. When pressed about seeming to choose a brutal dictator over a fellow American, Trump doubled down. "Well, Kim Jong Un made a statement that Joe Biden is a low-IQ individual," he said during a news conference on Monday, standing beside Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. "He probably is, based on his record. I think I agree with him on that." Back home, the attacks on Trump from the left certainly did not abate while he was overseas. Foreign policy has become a more salient issue for Democratic primary voters in the wake of the recent saber rattling toward Iran. Several of the candidates have responded by adding language into their stump speeches to criticize the Trump administration's escalation in the Middle East. Strikingly, the trio of military veterans seeking the Democratic nomination have deployed the most searing attacks on this front. They used Memorial Day weekend to emphasize that Trump did not serve during Vietnam by claiming, dubiously, that he had bone spurs in his feet. Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Mass., repeatedly and explicitly questioned Trump's patriotism over Memorial Day weekend. "We've had presidents who were immoral, backwards and had terrible policies. We've had presidents who were criminals. I don't think we've ever had a president who is so fundamentally unpatriotic," Moulton told Anderson Cooper last night on CNN. "Even Richard Nixon served his country and was proud to do so. This president is much more interested in siding with dictators, if it's good for his ratings. And that's pretty pathetic for the commander in chief." On Sunday night, Moulton contrasted Trump with John F. Kennedy - the last man from Massachusetts to win the presidency. "He used his father's connections to get medically cleared when he probably shouldn't have been cleared," Moulton told MSNBC's Kasie Hunt. "I don't think that lying to get out of serving your country is patriotic. It's not like there was just some empty seat in Vietnam. Someone had to go in his place. I'd like to meet the American hero who went in Donald Trump's place to Vietnam. I hope he's still alive." Mayor Pete Buttigieg of South Bend, Indiana, accused Trump of faking a disability to avoid military service. "If he were a conscientious objector, I'd admire that," he told Bob Costa during a Washington Post Live event on Thursday. "But this is somebody who, I think it's fairly obvious to most of us, took advantage of the fact that he was a child of a multimillionaire in order to pretend to be disabled so that somebody could go to war in his place. I know that that drudges up old wounds from a complicated time during a complicated war, but I'm also old enough to remember when conservatives talked about character as something that mattered in the presidency. And, so, I think it deserves to be talked about." ABC's Martha Raddatz pointed out on "This Week," the Sunday show, that the mayor made this comment at about the same time the president was visiting Arlington National Cemetery to honor the fallen. Buttigieg was unapologetic. "You have somebody who thinks it's all right to let somebody go in his place into a deadly war and is willing to pretend to be disabled in order to do it," he said. "That is an assault on the honor of this country." Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, D-Hawaii, has made antiwar messaging the centerpiece of her campaign, which has failed to get traction. "Memorial Day is a time to remember that war should only be waged as a very last resort to keep the American people safe," she said on Monday, per ABC. "So nothing angers me more than the hypocrisy exhibited every Memorial Day by warmongering politicians and media pundits feigning sympathy for those who paid the ultimate price in service to our country, while simultaneously advocating for more counterproductive regime change wars and the new Cold War and arms race." "These baseless attacks from 2020 Democrats are rooted in desperation," emailed Kayleigh McEnany, the national press secretary for Trump's reelection campaign. "As commander in chief, President Donald Trump has the utmost respect for the sacrifice our military men and women have made to keep our nation safe. He has continually made every effort to honor our troops and veterans from fixing the VA healthcare crisis to increasing our military budget." After ordering an additional 1,500 U.S. troops to the Middle East at the end of last week, Trump insisted in Tokyo on Monday that he's "not looking for regime change" in Tehran. "We're looking for no nuclear weapons," he said. That comment followed a weekend of intense criticism from other 2020 Democrats, who didn't serve in the military, that Trump is not living up to his 2016 rhetoric about getting out of "endless wars." Former Texas congressman Beto O'Rourke said Sunday on CBS's "Face the Nation" that Trump is "provoking yet another war in the Middle East." Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., spoke at length about his opposition to foreign entanglements during a rally outside the State House in Vermont on Saturday. "Right now, I am doing everything that I can to prevent Donald Trump and John Bolton from taking us into a war with Iran - a war which would be much worse than the war in Iraq and could lead, literally, to perpetual warfare in the region," Sanders said. Four years ago, in 2015, Scott Walker refused to directly criticize Barack Obama during an appearance at a think tank in London. The then-Wisconsin governor was running for the GOP nomination. "I don't think it's wise to undermine the president of your own country" while abroad, he explained. "When you're in a foreign country, to me, I defer to the president, even though I don't always believe in the same things as he does politically. . . . I just don't think you talk about foreign policy when you're on foreign soil. . . . Maybe it is a bit old-fashioned." To be sure, that same year, all but a handful of Republican senators signed on to an open letter by Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., to the leaders of Iran warning that they shouldn't count on the U.S. abiding by any nuclear deal that Obama might negotiate. And Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was invited to give a speech to a joint meeting of Congress opposing the Iran agreement. There are examples of politicians going even further. Nixon's 1968 presidential campaign notoriously thwarted peace talks to end the Vietnam War, for example. But he always paid lip service to the idea that politics should stop at the water's edge. In 2012, Mitt Romney slammed Obama after the then-president was caught on a hot mic during a summit in South Korea telling Russian President Dmitry Medvedev that he would have more "flexibility" to negotiate once he was reelected. John Boehner, who was speaker of the House, chastised Romney. "While the president is overseas," Boehner said, "I think it's appropriate that people not be critical of him or our country." For his part, Obama tried to avoid domestic politics when he was overseas, but sometimes he still wandered into the thicket. He was criticized in May 2016 for saying during a news conference at the conclusion of the G-7 summit, coincidentally in Japan, that world leaders he met with were "surprised" Trump had won the GOP nomination. "They're rattled by it - and for good reason," Obama said, "because a lot of the proposals that he's made display either ignorance of world affairs or a cavalier attitude." Flash A new batch of Chinese peacekeepers joined the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) Monday following the 17th Transfer of Authority (rotation) ceremony in Lebanon's southern village Hinnieh near the port city of Tyre. Stefano Del Col, head of mission and force commander of the UNIFIL, oversaw the Transfer of Authority from Shi Honghui, commander of the 17th Chinese Peacekeeping Operation Force, to Gao Chaoning, commander of the 18th one. Del Col appreciated the work performed by the Chinese troop at all levels and in all its functions. "Your work contributes and adds to UNIFIL's goal to support strong and capable Lebanese state institutions, which are at the root of sustainable peace." "Your work helps UNIFIL in achieving its mandate, within the framework of Security Council Resolution 1701, of improving safety and security, an essential prerequisite for peace," he said. For his part, Gao vowed to follow the UN charter, coordinate with peacekeeping forces and fulfill the mission of preserving longstanding peace in the region. "We will be fully devoted to various tasks, fearless of difficulties and sacrifices, to make contributions to the lasting peace of south Lebanon," he said. About 6,000 Chinese peacekeepers have completed their service in southern Lebanon since 2006, which is a critical force to implement the mission's mandate. A 39-year-old San Antonio man was arrested Tuesday afternoon, two days after he allegedly doused his pregnant girlfriend with rubbing alcohol and set her on fire. Bryan Lee Hoover, who is described as homeless in court records, was visiting with his girlfriend and her mother in Balcones Heights when the couple got into an argument Sunday afternoon, according to Balcones Heights Police Chief John Jahanara. The disappearance from the public record of a police report alleging family violence filed by the wife of mayoral candidate Greg Brockhouse may go down in history as one of Bexar Countys unsolved mysteries. The report, dated five minutes before Christmas Eve in 2009, was taken by officer D. Gomez, badge number 1487, and given the case number 9063028. The Express-News has a copy but attempts to get an official copy from the San Antonio Police Department in recent weeks has proven fruitless. The report has vanished. How it came to be missing has been fodder for multiple conspiracy theories as the San Antonio mayoral race has heated up. For weeks, Brockhouse has refused to even acknowledge the existence of the report and has gone as far as threatening to walk off stage at a public debate if the issue of family violence was even brought up. Hardly what one would expect from someone seeking to lead the 7th largest city in the country, especially one that had 28 domestic violence-related murders in the last year. San Antonio voters deserve to know what became of police report number 9063028. If it went through legal expunction as many have theorized, Brockhouse needs to own up to it. At a public debate last week he denied he or anyone he knows requested the report be expunged and said, The situation did not happen. A Texas Young Lawyer Association handbook on expunction reads, Once a persons record is expunged, all information is removed from the criminal record and that person can deny the incident ever occurred. Is Brockhouse using that as his playbook? Expunctions are secretive matters and talking about them can bring criminal penalties so no one is going to readily admit there was an expunction. In this case for instance, the family violence allegations in Annalisa Brockhouses report would have likely resulted in a Class C misdemeanor charge if there had been prosecution. However, talking about an expunction can result in a Class B misdemeanor charge for any of the parties associated with that expunction. I get that if Brockhouse were to discuss the expunction of any record connected to him, it could result in his waiving any privilege he gained in seeking the court order. But leaving questions on such an important issue unanswered is going to shadow him the rest of his public life and will only prompt further speculation. A popular conspiracy theory is that the connections he gained as a City Hall insider might have resulted in someone removing the police report from public access as a political favor. If that happened, a criminal investigation is warranted. But the sad reality is we will likely never know what happened. Texas law clearly favors those seeking expunctions and offers no checks and balances if questions should arise. But even if the Brockhouse police report was expunged, the circumstances were unusual. Generally expunctions are sought in cases where there has been an arrest or a citation issued and the charges were later dropped. In this case there is no evidence either of those things happened but there still could have been an expunction issued. Louis D. Martinez, a San Antonio criminal defense lawyer who has done more than 100 expunctions, said granting an expunction without an arrest is done in Bexar County if all the parties sign off on it. Sometimes expunctions are granted in cases without an arrest. That is not the intent of the law but sometimes its done, Martinez said. A judge said a broad interpretation of the term non custodial arrest, which generally refers to a citation, can be applied to just a police report and while unconventional, it is legal. Expunction laws serve a valid purpose. They allow the removal of blemishes that might show up in a criminal background check and cause problems when applying for employment, housing or credit. Their use in a calculated attempt to hide information from voters is troubling. Voters dont like to be played. Former District Attorney Nico LaHood and 150th District Court Judge Monique Diaz each met with considerable negative publicity with their unsuccessful expunction attempts prior to their elections. As much as politicians tout transparency on the campaign trail, they often fail to follow through. Actions speak louder than words. Greg Brockhouse needs to level with the voters about this. If there was no expunction and a police report went missing that means someone has been messing with public records. And tampering with government records is a criminal offense. gpadilla@express-news.net Every so often, K-12 schooling witnesses the rise of an intuitive, easy-to-like, bipartisan reform push thats backed by deep-pocketed funders and a lot of recognizable names. While this alignment of forces would seem to make success likely, things rarely seem to go as anticipated. Even as social and emotional learning (SEL) basks in its current popularity , its useful to ask what could go wrongand what might be done about that. The best recent illustration of a celebrated launch hitting headwinds may be the Common Core, which was flying high a decade agoonly to wind up enmeshed in fierce, divisive political combat. But thats all history; theres no need to relitigate it here. (If youre interested in my take on that history, its here .) But there are lessons to be learned. Now, I dont mean to overstate the SEL-Common Core comparison. One was a set of standards; the other is a bundle of practices. One was birthed via a concerted and coordinated effort; the other is a sprawling network of practitioners, advocates, and more. Theyre different things. That said, Common Cores bumpy ride holds useful lessons for Team SEL. And just last week, EdChoices Mike McShane, whose books include Bush-Obama School Reform: Lessons Learned , authored an incisive new AEI analysis on this very topic. You can find his whole paper here but, today, Ill flag three key takeaways. First off, McShane notes: Advocates should first define what they mean by SEL; then they should focus on convincing stakeholders that it is worth supporting. Common Core was adopted by almost every state in America without the citizens of those states even realizing that it was happening. In the 2013 Phi Delta Kappan/Gallup poll, 69 percent of Americans and 55 percent of public school parents had never heard of the standards. Common Core meant different things to different people. Some saw it as a vindication of progressive pedagogy. Others saw it as a win for traditionalists who argue there is a "core" set of knowledge that all students should possess. Before these serious differences were reconciled, the effort had already spread like wildfire. This came back to haunt supporters when teachers and parents were confused by the effort and turned against it. McShanes second lesson is equally straightforward: SEL advocates need to work with state and local education agencies to develop the capacity to implement sound SEL instruction. When U.S. Education Secretary [Arne] Duncan talked about the transformative technology of the next generation of assessments, that transformative technology did not exist yet. Or it at least did not exist at the scale necessary to use in tens of millions of assessments across the country. It still doesn't. The same was true for instructional materials aligned to the new standards. In a presentation to the Education Writers Association in 2014, both William Schmidt of Michigan State University and Morgan Polikoff of the University of Southern California found that textbooks purportedly aligned to the Common Core were notand they were, in some cases, close to identical to their pre-Common Core versions. Third, McShane sensibly points out: SEL advocates need to be aware, and wary, of all the types of folks who will try to join the SEL movement once it gains popularity. Common Core was a windfall for cranks, charlatans, and con artists. Because there was so little infrastructure or an organization that "owned" the standards, folks were pretty much free to say that things were part of Common Core, even if the original authors would want nothing to do with them. Nature abhors a vacuum. Everyone from publishers to bloggers rushed in and got money and clicks. In the end, as Ive said time and again, Im firmly of the conviction that how we reform education matters a whole lot more than whether we set out to do so. I believe that the Common Core experience elegantly reflects that truth and am certain that SEL eventually will, too. Heres hoping that tending to the lessons of so many previous efforts will help Team SEL avoid some of the Common Core stumbles and increase the chances of delivering on our shared hopes. You are here: World Flash Lebanon's state security arrested on Tuesday 35 Syrian nationals for their illegal entry to Lebanon, local media reported. Internal security forces arrested the Syrian nationals in the village of Swayri in west Bekaa, according to the National News Agency (NNA). NNA said that security forces arrested a Syrian national who facilitated the entry of the other 34. The arrested people were referred to judicial bodies for further investigations and other legal procedures. The Lebanese government has barred the UN refugee agency from registering Syrian refugees without guarantors, work visas or visas for transit since 2015. Such measures led to a rise in the number of Syrian refugees attempting to enter Lebanon illegally. The beginning of the school year when you got to show off your new duds, new cars, new looks! Sports! Playing, cheering, watching high school athletics. The arts: Dramatic arts, musical groups and shows, graphic arts groups, debate, etc. The prom! No dancing the night away or punch bowl antics. The daily interactions. Just being with the group, hanging with friends and classmates. Access to college recruiters and advisors its harder to line up higher education. Walking onstage to get a diploma while all the family is watching with everyone elses family. Vote View Results Longford's famed Highland cattle returned to Dunderry Fair on Sunday, May 12, with their proud owner Michelle Shaughnessy watching on as they claimed the Overall Show prize, adding to the impressive Peter Smyth Memorial Perpetual Cup. It was a fabulous fair, one of the busiest we go to. Last year we won the overall cattle award, but this year we won the Overall show champions award, Michelle Shaughnessy of Ballinalee told the Leader. This year, Hamish and Henry were joined by another one of their fold members, Harold. Unlike the other pair, Harold is a black Highland Pedigree Bull whom the Shaughnessys have been breeding from for 3 years. Michelle told the Leader, We have a waiting list of buyers looking to buy our Highland calves. We put so much love, care and attention into our cattle, hence by nature they are calm and quiet animals to deal with they are a pure joy to look after and mind. Also read: Drumlish man named president of Irish Charolais Cattle Society Michelles strong passion for her animals will soon be recognised in Scotland by the Queen of England, who is also the patron of the Highland Cattle Society. Michelle explained, I have received an invitation to visit Her Majesty the Queens Highland Cattle in her Balmoral Castle Estate this coming June. The Queen has a true love for these animals and her senior Stockmaster Dochy Ormiston, who looks after her Highland cattle fold in Balmoral Castle, has invited me to come and visit her Highland cattle. Dochy and myself are in discussions also in relation to bringing back some of her beautiful Royal Highland Heifer calves to Longford from Balmoral Castle ( safely and securely) to breed with my beautiful Highland Bull Harold. Michelle gushed at the opportunity, This is a true honour and I cannot wait to visit and be surrounded by these gorgeous animals, A man shot dead in the latest Dublin gangland murder had strong links to a well known Longford crime gang, the Leader can reveal. The man, aged 41 and originally from Iran, was shot dead outside the home of deceased former Sean Little in north Dublin this afternoon. Twenty-two-year-old Little was gunned down last week in a drug related gun attack. Gardai believe this afternoon's incident in the Kilbarron Avenue area of Coolock, north Dublin, may be linked to that of Little. The following day, Jordan Davis was killed as he wheeled his baby son in a buggy in Darndale. The Leader can tonight reveal that the victim in today's murder had been living in Longford and was well known to garda locally. He sought asylum in this country and had been warned by gardai that his life was under threat. His links with a well known gang saw him become involved in intimidation and drug dealing. He was known to wear a bullet proof vest and had recently struck up links with another Traveller crime faction in Dublin and Meath. Detectives had also been investigating whether the man was involved in one of the shootings which claimed the lives of Mr Little and Mr Davis. It's believed that may have led to the man coming under threat again. Gardai are appealing for witnesses to this afternoon's incident. They believe up to three suspects were involved, all of whom were wearing balacvas. They fled the scene in a grey silver Avensis which was later found burnt out a short distance away. Local News, Crime, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: May 28 2019 Officials: Jason A. Erny, 49, allegedly struck and injured another driver with a baton. The New York State Police arrested Jason A. Erny, age 49, of Massapequa, NY, for Assault 2nd degree (D-Felony), Criminal Possession of a weapon 4th degree (A-Misd) and Menacing 2nd degree (A-Misd). An investigation revealed that Erny was operating a 2016 Dodge Charger when he was involved in a road rage incident with a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu that originated on the westbound Ocean Parkway, east of the Jones Beach tower in Wantagh, NY. The incident started when Erny attempted to enter the Parkway from the left entrance ramp and allegedly drove into the path of the Chevrolet. The incident continued as Erny pulled in front of the Chevrolet and stopped in the right lane of traffic. Both operators exited their vehicles with Erny armed with a retractable baton. An altercation ensued where Erny struck the other driver with the baton and caused non-life threatening injuries. Erny subsequently returned to his vehicle and fled the scene. Troopers patrolled to Erny's residence where he was taken into custody. The other driver was not charged. Erny was arraigned at Nassau County First District Court. Amazon-thumb The biggest challenge in fighting cyberfraud is the scale of the problem, said Charles Wright, associate general counsel at Amazon, at the INTA Annual Meetings May 21 session on Advances in E-Commerce and Advertising: How Platforms Address Cyberfraud. Wright said that users make about five billion changes to Amazons website every day, the majority of which are valid actions, which makes bad actors difficult to identify. He said that bot-created accounts are a massive issue due to the data breaches over the last few years that stole millions of individuals credentials. The legal threshold for platforms liability for infringing content is knowledge. When we have knowledge of a specific infringement, we have an obligation to take it down, Wright explained. But we go way beyond that. Were investing significant resources into proactively keeping fraud out of our stores. This is well in excess of our legal obligations. For example, in 2018 alone, more than three billion suspected listings were removed before they could be published, and about one million bad actors accounts were stopped before they posted a single listing for sale. Thanks to Amazons artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) programmes that target cyberfraud, around 100 listings are removed proactively for every one infringement notice that brands submit. Still, with every improvement in fraud-detection technologies, bad actors have various strategies to stay ahead: Diverting fraud, when consumers are linked to other sites to get deals; Abusing reviews, when reviews are bought and sold contrary to the nature of honest reviewing; Brushing, when people receive packages they never ordered, in order to boost the sellers search ranking; Falsifying infringement claims, using hacked email addresses; and Selling illegal products. Wright said that there are many more strategies that I cant tell you about because we dont want people to know that were onto them. In terms of counterfeiting specifically, bad actors are wise, Wright said. They blur your word mark, or get rid of the logo and say product in box bears logo, or use 1s instead of Is it takes a while for us to figure out. Amazons anti-infringement tools The main programme that Amazon uses to proactively identify fraudulent postings is Brand Registry. Over 130,000 brands have enrolled in the free programme so far, and Wright said that they submit 99% fewer notices of infringement due to its proactive takedowns based on image-based searching technology. We need the inputs from brands so we know who is associated with which marks. When you report a violation, it feeds into our ML loops to help us figure out what we missed and do better next time, Wright explained. Transparency is another tool Amazon is using to fight counterfeits. The year-old programme embeds a unique number into each physical product so that every point along the supply chain even the end consumers can verify its authenticity. Over 3,000 brands are currently participating. Amazons newest anti-counterfeiting programme is called Project Zero. Its available by invitation only, and has been live for only three months. It is essentially a self-service takedown tool. Instead of waiting for Amazon to assess the infringement, users have the power to immediately do their own takedowns. Were stepping into this very slowly, said Wright, because were concerned IP rights owners will try to abuse distribution channels. Another project in the works can detect design right infringement. Wright said that he hopes to be able to unveil the new project later this year. Until then, infringing images without word logos remain difficult for the companys AI to detect. What can brands do in the meantime? Sign up for the Brand Registry programme; its free although it does require a valid registration and its the first step to participating in any of Amazons other brand protection initiatives. Use the tools we designed, said Wright. Were talking about fighting criminal enterprises attempting to steal money, not paying taxes, spoiling the environment, and avoiding national labour laws. Only through collaboration can we get ahead. However, he issued a strict warning that brands should reserve their complaints for instances of actual infringement, instead of unauthorised sales. We see this more than were happy about, said Wright. If its simply unauthorised and its protected by the first sale doctrine, were not going to take it down, and your notice will be rejected. We are keeping track of who sends us these notices, he concluded. The material on this site is for law firms, companies and other IP specialists. It is for information only. Please read our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Notice before using the site. All material subject to strictly enforced copyright laws. 2021 Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC. For help please see our FAQs. Share this article People should take advantage of opportunities to see military cemeteries and monuments, retired Col. Lewis T. Turner said. Turner was the keynote speaker during the 72nd annual Memorial Day Service on Monday at Roselawn Burial Park. Turner gave the history of Memorial Day, which was started three years after the end of the Civil War as Decoration Day, to adorn veterans graves with flowers. It became an official national holiday in 1971, when it was moved to Monday. Turner is the one whose fate broke the chain of his family, he said, a chain of dying in war that followed several dates in common. A relative, Jesse T. Frith, a Franklin County native, fought in World War I with the 126th Infantry. He was killed at the age of 22 on Oct. 5, 1918, during the 100-day Battle in France, just a month before armistice. Friths nephew, Jessie T. Ramsey, born in 1921 in Henry County, was named for him. He went into the army on Oct. 5, 1942, his 21st birthday and exactly 24 years after the date his uncle died. On Sept. 18, 1944, Ramsey was killed in action in the same region in France his uncle was. Turner, a 1956 graduate of John D. Bassett High School, 1958 graduate of Bluefield College and 1960 graduate of Concord University, began basic training in 1964. His long list of military awards includes Legion of Merit, Bronze Star and Vietnam Campaign, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Distinguished Unit Citation. The death of a solder is personal, and it hits hard, he said. It takes a long time to heal the grieving. Before the service, Turner said, he looked at graves at Roselawn and found four people who had died in Vietnam, which, he said, likely would be repeated in any cemetery anywhere. The death of American men and women continues to be part of our history and probably never will stop, he said. As time goes on it looks like young people are not realizing the importance of Memorial Day and the sacrifices it represents, Turner said. He encouraged the audience to take all opportunities they have to visit war memorials. When he lived in Washington D.C., he visited the Vietnam Memorial every Memorial Day at day break, a sight that would knock your socks off, he said. He recommended that people attend the 75th observance of D-Day on June 6 at the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford. The 130 national cemeteries in the United States and Puerto Rico as well as the cemeteries around the world for American military are good to see, he said. More than 300,000 active duty military personnel are stationed in more than 150 countries, he said. The United States has 800 bases in 70 countries, along with numerous cemeteries and memorials spread throughout the world. Some 125,000 members of the service are buried in foreign soil, he said. W.C. Fowlkes and S.T. Fulcher also addressed the crowd. Fulcher recognized various people in attendance, including Korean War veteran Marie-Bernice Downey, Henry County Sheriff Lane Perry, Martinsville Sheriff Steve Draper and former city chief of police Mike Rogers. C.P.D. Mike Stewart placed the POW/MIA (Prisoner of War, Missing in Action) flag at a table set symbolically for one. AmVets Post 35 Commander Shannon Campbell explained the symbolism. The empty chair represents a missing soldier; the white tablecloth represents the purity of his or her response to the countrys call to arms; the single rose represents family and loved ones; the red ribbon represents love of the country and the red ribbon worn on lapels in honor; the lemon slice represents his bitter fate; the salt represents tears of the family; the upside-down glass represents that he cannot join in on a toast. Fowlkes gave an Award for Outstanding Service 2011-2015 to Marc Thomas, who has been the chair of the Veterans Service Organizations committee. Fowkes and Ken Barron conducted the dedication of Memorial Day to the late James Rogers and Billy Barbour. Veterans Honor Guard Commander Thomas Spencer said the Honor Guard, which was formed in 1973, now has 21 members. In the past year five have died: James Rogers, Jack Hanshaw, Billy Barbour, Raymond Dunford and Daniel Spencer (his brother). Joey Ellison and a JROTC cadet laid the wreath, and the Veterans Honor Guard conducted the three-volley salute and played Taps. During the benediction, the Rev. Mark Hinchcliff said that the ultimate goal of conflict is not to conquer another nation but to maintain peace. Boston police arrested an 18-year-old suspect from Dorchester on Memorial Day in connection with a bank robbery last week. Zachary Stewart, 18, was arrested on Monday after an unarmed robbery at East Boston Savings Bank on Talbot Avenue in Dorchester on Wednesday, May 22. Boston police said Stewart wanted to turn himself into custody on Monday, after a warrant was issued in Dorchester District Court for an unarmed robbery. Around 10:51 a.m. on May 22, Boston police assigned to the Mattapan district responded to a panic alarm at the bank. A teller told police that an unknown male approached her window and passed a note demanding that she hand over an undisclosed amount of money, according to Boston police. The suspect took the cash and the note, and then fled on foot down Talbot Avenue toward Southern Avenue in Dorchester. Using the tellers description of the suspect as a white, possibly Hispanic male, police officers searched the area but did not find him. It is unclear what charges Stewart will face in connection to the alleged robbery. He was arrested on a warrant by the Boston Police Fugitive Unit in the area of Richfield Street in Dorchester. Family members of a deceased teenager cried in Lawrence District Court Tuesday morning, wiping tears from their eyes just hours before a wake was set to be held for the 13-year-old girl. The family was in court to see an arraignment for the 47-year-old Lawrence man who is accused of giving the girl cocaine and sexually assaulting her twice before she died. The victim, who family identified as Chloe Ricard, was taken to the Lawrence General Hospital emergency room at 4:47 p.m. on May 20 by the man accused of giving her drugs as well as another young girl. Ricard was pronounced dead shortly after arrival, officials said. A not-guilty plea was entered on behalf of Carlos Rivera, who was held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing on June 4. Following the arraignment, Ricards family left the courthouse and declined to make any comment. Rivera is charged with two counts of distribution of cocaine to a minor; two counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14; and one count of indecent assault and battery on a person over 14. The two counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14 are in connection with the sexual assault of Ricard, officials said. The charge of indecent assault and battery on a person over 14 is in connection with the sexual assault of a 16-year-old girl. That alleged assault happened at an earlier date, separate from the assault of the 13-year-old, according to the Essex District Attorneys office. Authorities say he could face additional charges. Investigators believe Rivera brought Ricard to the hospital on May 20 and was accompanied by another teenage girl, according to the district attorneys office. Ricard and the other girl were at Riveras apartment at 59 Bellevue St. on the evening of May 19 and during most of the next day, the statement said. Rivera was arrested Saturday morning and held on $750,000 bail pending his arraignment. Court records indicate that Rivera was charged with driving uninsured in 2005 and has no other past criminal cases. Judge Lynn Rooney allowed a motion by the state to impound records in the case, keeping them out of public view until July 1. A grand jury will hear the case, officials said. A wake for Ricard is scheduled for tonight at the Chiampa Funeral Home in Shrewsbury. The funeral and burial are private, according to Ricards obituary. Chloe loved drawing, dancing, acro, yoga and music. She was extremely creative and was an avid dancer. Among her favorite beaches was Old Orchard Beach in Maine," reads the obituary for Ricard. "Chloe was especially fond of her cat, Moo. Officials said an autopsy has been completed, but a cause and manner of Ricards death have not yet been determined. A GoFundMe page seeks to raise $10,500 for Ricards funeral. On Monday May 20, 2019 Chloe Ricard was taken from us far too soon. She was a beautiful soul inside and out and was very kind to others, especially to those less fortunate, the page reads. Chloe had a passion for drawing, loved to listen to music, enjoyed dancing, singing, beach time and spending time with her family & friends. A federal court is still mulling over whether to temporarily block immigration agents from making arrests at Boston-area courthouses, noting key factual disputes between the federal government and the district attorneys who challenged the arrests in a lawsuit. Judge Indira Talwani said on Tuesday that she found two major discrepancies between facts argued by the government facts and attorneys representing local district attorneys and immigration advocates. David Jacob Zimmer, citing the public defenders office, said criminal defendants were arrested on their way to court, which the government attorney disputed. Zimmer also argued that witnesses and victims fear the possibility of arrests, which the government attorney said was irrelevant and contrary to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement 2018 policy on courthouse arrests. While the parties argued over whether courthouse arrests are legal, Talwani said she needed more time to assess what type of ICE activity is actually happening and whether it warrants a preliminary injunction, which would temporary prohibit courthouse arrests while the case is heard. Im going to dig in and see where I end up, she said. Talwani said she would let the parties know if she needs more evidence from them. At the center of Tuesdays hearing was a dispute over whether the law allows for courthouse arrests and who could be a target for a courthouse arrest under ICEs various policies. Zimmer, representing the local district attorneys and advocates, said criminal suspects were being arrested on their way in and victims and witnesses feared being arrested, but he had no evidence that any of them were arrested. He argued this deterred people from showing up to court at all and interrupted criminal proceedings. Erez Reuveni, who is representing the government, argued that criminal suspects were not being arrested on their way in, but rather on their way out. He also said victims and witnesses generally are not arrested, but that courthouse arrests are codified in the 2005 immigration law passed by Congress. Both attorneys zeroed in on a section of the January 2018 ICE directive on courthouse arrests, which states that immigrants who encounter ICE at courthouses who arent the targets, such as a family member or friend accompanying the target, wont be subject to arrest. Zimmer said his concern was the footnote that followed stating that ICE officers and agents will make enforcement determinations on a case-by-case basis" and cites a 2017 memo that affirms the presidents executive order stating that every immigrant without legal status could be priority for removal. Reuveni and Zimmer argued over the various ICE policies and the 2005 immigration law passed by Congress, which Reuveni argued validated courthouse arrests as legal. But Talwani took a step back from the legal arguments, asking the parties for clarification on the facts. The plaintiffs include Middlesex County District Attorney Marian Ryan, Suffolk County District Attorney Rachael Rollins, Lawyers for Civil Rights, the Chelsea Collaborative. The coalition, represented by the law firm Goodwin Procter, filed a lawsuit in April challenging ICE arrests in local courthouses. They argued that ICE arrests at the courthouses violate the common law and constitutional rights of criminal defendants, witnesses and victims to have their day in court, ultimately interfering with criminal prosecutions. The lawsuit was filed days after Newton Judge Shelley Richmond Joseph and court officer Wesley MacGregor were arrested on charges that they helped a criminal defendant evade immigration agents. The plaintiffs, however, say there is no connection between the two cases and that the lawsuit had been in the works for more than a year. The recent news over ICE activity at local courthouses renewed tensions among government officials arguing over the role of local law enforcement in Massachusetts. Rollins has already come under scrutiny by some public safety officials over her campaign pledge to not prosecute certain nonviolent crimes that she argues disproportionately affect people of color. Cape and Islands District Attorney Michael OKeefe called out social justice candidates for district attorney offices as flawed in an op-ed in the Boston Globe, arguing that criminal prosecution should be left to professional prosecutors. Rollins, who was in court on Tuesday, told reporters that the states Victim Rights Law is constantly violated when ICE arrests criminal defendants at courthouses because local prosecutors dont know what happens to those defendants and cant hold them accountable. It cant be that this is the way its supposed to happen, she said on Tuesday. Her concern is when defendants are deported without being convicted, if they are guilty, only to re-enter the country and commit a crime elsewhere. Its not safe, she said. Baystate Health plans to close underutilized intensive care units in Westfield and Palmer and convert the six beds at each hospital to regular medical-surgical use with a lower level of care. It has also asked the state Department of Public Health to take the six pediatric beds at Baystate Noble Hospital in Westfield off the institutions license and close that ward, said spokeswoman Shelly Hazlett. Baystate announced the changes to staffers with an internal memo earlier this month. The Department of Public Health has set a hearing on the Noble ICU shutdown and closure of pediatric beds for 4 p.m. June 19 at Westfield Middle School, 30 West Silver St., Westfield. Closing the pediatric beds will drop Nobles official capacity from 97 to 91. A hearing on the proposed closure of the Baystate Wing Hospital ICU will be held at 4 p.m. June 18 in the Snow Conference Room at the hospital, 40 Wright St., Palmer. Capacity at Wing will continue to be 74. Wing had the state remove its unused pediatric beds from its listed capacity years ago, Hazlett said. No jobs will be cut at either hospital, she said. Pediatric patients are more often treated today at Baystate Childrens Hospital in Springfield or at another facility. The intensive care units at Wing and Noble are more often used to treat patients who could be treated at lower-level, and less expensive, medical-surgical units. Hazlett cited statistics that each of the two intensive care units averages four patients a day. On average three of them could be treated in a medical-surgical unit. That remaining patient who needs intensive care would go to Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, Hazlett said. Baystate Medical Center provides access to a full range of specialists to consult and aid in their care, she said. Baystae Wing wants to eliminate its 6-bed intensive care unti and convert those beds to less expensive medical surgical beds (Frederick Gore Photo) FreelanceFreelance For members of the Massachusetts Nurses Association, a statewide union that represents about 130 nurses at Noble, these moves are the latest in a continuing shift of services from regional hospitals to centralized locations. "We are all about keeping care local," said Joe Markman, a union spokesman for Western Massachusetts. "This is something the nurses are opposing." He said the union is still fighting Baystates plans to close mental health beds at Noble, Wing and Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield when it partners with for-profit US HealthVest to build a mental health hospital in Holyoke. All these plans the intensive care units, the pediatric beds and the mental health hospital are in front of the Department of Public Health. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Massachusetts Nurses Association members testified at the Statehouse in Boston on two hospital bills. One would require hospitals to release and make understandable more financial information. The other would make it harder for hospitals to close services, Markman said. If the bill passes, it would instruct the attorney general to seek an injunction to maintain essential services for the duration of a new, extended notice period while the state investigates. It also would prohibit hospitals that close services from getting different licences to expand other services or expand elsewhere without an added level of scrutiny. Wynn Resorts paid the $35 million fine issued by Massachusetts regulators, as well as the additional $500,000 issued against CEO Matt Maddox, but questioned the criticism against the head of the company. In a statement, Wynn Resorts wrote that the company was pleased to find that it remained suitable to run the $2.6 billion Everett casino after the Massachusetts Gaming Commission reviewed the companys response to sexual misconduct allegations against founder Steve Wynn. Still, the company said it disagreed that Maddox had violated company policy. We would support his decision to exercise his rights and appeal the fine imposed upon him, and believe he would rightly prevail in his appeal," a company news release states. "However, that appeal would delay the final conclusion of this matter, and therefore we appreciate Matts decision to forego an appeal in order to allow closure for the company. The commission confirmed on Tuesday that it received payment for both fines from Wynn Resorts. Pursuant to the Commissions Decision and Order issued on April 30, Wynn Resorts has paid $35.5 million in fine payments and accepted the conditions outlined in the written decision, commission spokeswoman Elaine Driscoll said in a statement. The five-member commission will now ensure compliance with the imposed requirements as they look forward to a successful June 23 opening of Encore Boston Harbor. The commission not only issued fines after its suitability review, but it also mandated leadership training for Maddox and required an independent monitor to oversee Wynn Resorts for at least three years once it runs Encore Boston Harbor. In its April 30 report, commissioners wrote that they were particularly troubled by Maddoxs response to certain red flags and the allegations published in a bombshell Wall Street Journal article in January 2018. Commissioners questioned Maddoxs judgment in 2014 or 2015 when he heard Wynn had asked employees for a sensual massage and again after a Wall Street Journal article published detailing allegations of sexual misconduct. They noted that he defended Wynn to the employees even after the Journal article. Most of the commission decided that these shortcomings bear primarily on his competence, not his suitability. The decision to let Maddox retain suitability, however, was not unanimous. The fines were the largest in the history of the casino industry. Andrew Klebanow, senior partner at Global Market Advisors, called the conditions onerous, especially the leadership training for the head of a world-renowned casino company. That is a pretty insulting message to the CEO of one the most successful casino companies and one that had previously received awards and accolades as great places to work, Kelbanow said. Wynn Resorts argued that Maddox remained in good standing after the Nevada Gaming Control Boards investigation. We believe Matts leadership has been, and will continue to be, essential in our transformation from a founder-led company to an innovative global corporation, the company wrote in a statement. Matt has created a more diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace culture all while maintaining focus on executing the Companys business plan. Now that the fines are paid, Wynn Resorts is ramping up its efforts to open Encore Boston Harbor by June 23. The company has hired more than 5,000 people with almost 1,500 already working, said President Robert DeSalvio. The staff is aiming to obtain a temporary operating certificate by May 31. The company had until May 31 to agree to conditions laid out by the commission or appeal the suitability decision, though it was unclear how an appeal would affect the opening date. Driscoll, the commission spokeswoman, did not say at the time whether an appeal would throw the June 23 opening into limbo. Michael Weaver, company spokesman, confirmed a week earlier that the company was working with the commission to understand the intent of the monitor condition in their recent decision." A cloud of uncertainty has hovered over Encore Boston Harbor for more than a year, as the Journal article and fallout prompted investigations over what company executives knew and hid from regulators. Massachusetts investigators found that the company tried to cover up the allegations from the commission, violating multiple regulations and internal policies. The commission did not try to investigate the veracity of the allegations against Wynn, who has maintained his innocence. He declined interviews with regulator investigators in Massachusetts and Nevada. The suitability investigation dragged on for months, in part because of litigation with Wynn that wasnt settled until the spring. The commission held three days of hearings in April, just months before the highly anticipated opening of the Everett casino. The appeal deadline was perhaps the last major hurdle Wynn Resorts faced before preparing for the opening, but the company set off a firestorm of questions and speculation after it announced it was in talks with MGM Resorts International to possibly sell Encore Boston Harbor. Those talks, however, were short-lived after the companies saw the reaction of the host communities. Wynn Resorts response shows that the company is committed to Everett and to the state, said Brendan Bussman, also a partner at Global Market Advisors. More importantly, he added, it shows the board has faith in Maddoxs leadership even if Massachusetts regulators may not. Nevada recognized this leadership change, and it is unfortunate the Massachusetts did not recognize this as well with their ruling," he said. I am not sure I would have taken one for the team as Mr. Maddox did today for his company. HOLYOKE Two Hibernian summer events are coming up, and one, the picnic, has a new venue. The 11th annual Hibernian Summer Picnic on Saturday, June 15, 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. will take place at the Summit View Pavilion, 555 Northampton St., Holyoke, not at The Wherehouse? as in the past. We moved the picnic venue outside to see if we can give it a more family-friendly oriented atmosphere, said Paul F. Hogan Jr., president of the James A. Curran Division One, Holyoke Ancient Order of Hibernians and immediate past president AOH Massachusetts State Board. The picnic will take place rain or shine. The Summit View has a large pavilion that we will be using. The children's and adult games will be out in the lawn area that surround the pavilion, Hogan said. The Irish camaraderie, the Irish music and best of all to meeting old acquaintances and making new ones make this a great way to kick off the summer. Earlier, The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians Division Two of Hampden/Hampshire Counties will host the third annual Chip and Putt Tournament June 15 at Annies Driving Range, 284 Chicopee St., Chicopee. Registration is at 12:30 p.m., and tee-off time is 1 p.m. The cost is $25 per person for teams of four. For the Chip and Putt Tournament, contact Mary Laura Hohol at mlwhelihan@yahoo.com or Nora McMahon at driscona@gmail.com by June 1. Presentations for the winners will take place when The Ancient Order of Hibernians James A. Curran Division One and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians Division Two of Hampden/Hampshire Counties host the picnic. The event will benefit the Maurice A. Donahue Memorial Scholarship, and the scholarships will be presented at the picnic. The award is named for the late former Massachusetts State Senate president and member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians of Holyoke. Maurice had dedicated his life to helping others and making the community a better place, Hogan said. He was a staunch supporter of education his whole life. I am sure that the scholarship in his name that is given out yearly to deserving students makes him proud that we continue on with the tradition of helping others as we do. Scholarship Chairperson Paul O. Mengel released the committees choices: Grace Curran, of Milton; Eileen Griffin, of Holyoke; Bridget Healy, of Holyoke; Brendan J. Morrissey, of Westfield; and Julia Pluta, of Holyoke. As the scholarship committee was reviewing the applicants, it became reassuring to see that so many qualified young people are opting to seek higher education, Mengel said. In fact, the Hibernians are dedicated to preserving the legacy of Donahue to encourage young people to pursue higher education. Serving for the meal will begin at 6:30 p.m. It will include sausage and peppers, barbecued chicken, hamburgers and hot dogs, baked beans, salads, soda, coffee and dessert; there will be a cash bar. Jim OConnor and the Boston Blackthorne Band will perform. The cost of the picnic is $25 for adults; children 11-15, $12; children 10 and under, free. There will be lawn games for the children, and the event will take place rain or shine. For reservations by June 10 call Paul Hogan at 413-533-0436. Bruce Springsteen is keeping busy. He has a new album, Western Stars, due out in three weeks, and recently revealed he will reenter the recording studio in the coming months with the E Street Band before hitting the road in 2020. While spending time in Rome this past weekend at his daughter, Jessicas, equestrian event, Springsteen told an Italian newspaper, Repubblica, "We will go on tour next year. Ill record with the E Street Band in the autumn and when we are done, well go on tour. Dont brush aside this festival; its going to be big. Fresh Paint Springfield is hosting a first-ever downtown mural festival June 2-8 that will transform 10 large exterior walls into art. During a mural festival, the community can watch multiple works of large-scale art being created. Once the murals are completed, they have a lasting positive impact on the neighborhood, which is transformed from a nondescript collection of buildings to a free walkable outdoor art gallery. A group of murals becomes a driver of economic activity and revitalization, said Britt A. Ruhe, producer of Fresh Paint Springfield. So, when I proposed the idea of a mural festival to Springfield community leaders and city officials, they immediately understood its potential and committed to making it happen in Springfield. Thirty-five artists will paint 28 works of public art in downtown Springfield. Nationally recognized and local mural artists will transform building walls into permanent works of art, and community events will encourage residents and visitors to participate in the painting. Local artists and community participants will paint public pianos and small murals during the festival as a way to engage the community in watching the artwork unfold during the week. Overall, 20,000 square feet of murals will be painted in the city within walking distance of one another, using 1,500 cans of spray paint and 500 gallons of liquid paint. There is not an explicit theme, but muralists were given information about Springfield, the building and the neighborhood in which the mural will live. It is up to them to create a work of art in their own style that is influenced by the community, its history and its hopes for the future. A lot of good things are going on here in the City of Springfield, said Mayor Domenic J. Sarno. These artistic creations (will send) a good message about our city. Arts and culture translate into vibrancy, creativity and business, he said. Vibrancy, creativity. Thats the city that we are. Look for murals in such places as the State Street/Interstate 91 underpass, 159 State St., 2 Spring St., Skyview Downtown (formerly Chestnut Park) Parking Garage and 8-12 Stearns Square. From June 2-8 artists will be painting small murals in Tower Square Park that will be installed throughout Springfield during the summer. Priya N. Green, of Springfield, will work with her husband, Andrae Green, on a mural that is to be 120 feet by 55 feet, using both liquid and spray paint. What it will depict is surprise, she said, but there will be people in the image. We've always wanted to see something like this come to Springfield, and we're honored to be a part of it and see our local community have vibrant art more visible, said Green, who received her master of fine arts in painting from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and her bachelor of fine arts in printmaking from Rutgers University. She has shown her work in solo and group exhibitions at spaces such as the Kimmel Center Galleries at New York University, Jersey City Museum, Zimmerli Art Museum, Concordia College and the School of the Art Institute in Chicago. For the Fresh Paint Springfield festival in Springfield, a variety of paint parties will take place during the festival at which members of the public can add their own touch to the paintings. At the Fresh Paint Parties, members of the public work alongside the artists on giant paint-by-number canvases that then are installed on a wall. The largest mural of the festival will be painted by GoodSpace Murals, with help from the community, during a series of parties. Anyone and everyone can come to a paint party and help paint these canvases, which get installed on the wall within a few days, Ruhe said. It's easy and fun, and you'll be able to look up at the finished mural and say, That's the part I painted! For more information about the paint parties and related events, go to freshpaintspringfield.com/events. Artists scheduled to participate in Fresh Paint Springfield 2019 include Colectivo Morivivi from Puerto Rico; Damien Mitchell from New York City; Good Space Murals from Minneapolis, Minnesota; Jeff Henriquez from New York City; John Simpson from Springfield; Kim Carlino from Northampton; Nero from Springfield; Andrae and Priya Nadkarni-Green from Springfield; and Wane One from New York City. On June 8 The Fresh Paint Block Party will take place, celebrating the installation the mural art across downtown Springfield. There will be live painting, tours of the finished murals, opportunities to meet the artists, food trucks and the last chance to join in a paint party. The event is free and open to all ages from 1 to 6 p.m. in Tower Square Park. My hope is that Fresh Paint Springfield will brighten the lives of the people who live, work and visit downtown Springfield, Ruhe said. And I believe that the murals will be a powerful contribution to Springfield's economic and cultural renaissance. For more information, visit the festivals website at freshpaintspringfield.com. CHICOPEE Five people were displaced and one pet cat was killed in a house fire in the Fairview section of the city on Memorial Day. When firefighters arrived at the house on 12 Yvette St., they found flames coming from a side window next to a driveway, Deputy Fire Chief Joseph Crevier said. There is a disabled gentleman who lives there we helped him out of the house, he said, adding the man uses a wheelchair. Three other residents, who are teenagers, were able to escape safely. One of the residents was not home at the time of the fire, he said. Firefighters were able to rescue one pet cat and found a second cat breathing but overwhelmed by the heat and smoke. They tried to revive the familys second cat but were unable to do so, he said. The fire was reported at about 2:50 p.m. and the first engine arrived within six minutes. Firefighters immediately saw flames coming from a window next to the driveway and climbing up the side of the house. The fire had also spread to other rooms, he said. It took firefighters about 15 minutes to extinguish the flames and they were able to prevent it from spreading to the attic most of the rest of the single-story home, he said. There was a lot of heat and smoke damage, Crevier said. Damage was estimated at about $50,000. The family will stay with friends and family, he said. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but Crevier said it may have been caused by an electrical problem in an outlet or air conditioner in a back bedroom. One of the owners said she thought she saw sparks coming from the outlet when the air conditioner was turned on. Yvette Street remains closed while firefighters remain at the scene of the fire. AMHERST -- More than 20 people were displaced and two dogs were killed in a fire at the Boulder Apartments, Tuesday. The fire started in a second-floor apartment and was caused by unattended cooking, Deputy Chief Lindsay Stromgren said. A maintenance employee first heard the fire alarm at about 1:30 p.m. and went to investigate. He knocked on the door of the second-floor apartment, waking up the resident who was napping, and found heavy smoke in the unit when the door was opened, Stromgren said. The resident suffered smoke inhalation and was treated at the scene. His two dogs did not survive, he said. No one else was injured in the fire, he said. "The first firefighters who arrived saw heavy smoke coming out of the window," Stromgren said. They were able to extinguish the fire within about five minutes and prevent it from spreading to other apartments. The fire started on the stove and quickly spread to the cabinets. It caused heavy damage to the apartment, essentially gutting it, he said. The complex, located on Brittany Manor Drive, is made up of four connected buildings, each of which has 10 units. All 10 units in the building where the fire occurred had smoke and water damage and the electricity was turned off, so those residents will be displaced until repairs can be made, he said. Stromgren did not know the total number of residents displaced, but said two to three people were living in each apartment. The American Red Cross of Western Massachusetts is assisting the residents with emergency housing, he said. Hadley Fire Department assisted by manning the Amherst Fire Station while firefighters responded to the blaze. Belchertown Fire Department responded to ambulance calls for Amherst, Stromgren said. SPRINGFIELD -- A Holyoke man, who had suspected ties to the La Familia gang, pleaded guilty in federal court to selling crack cocaine. Pedro Colon Amadeo, 36, pleaded guilty on Tuesday in U.S. District Court to distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, also known as crack cocaine, said Christina DiLorio-Sterling, spokeswoman for U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling. Colon Amadeo is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 4, by U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni. He faces a maximum of 40 years in prison, she said. He was one of three people arrested in June 2018 after a seven-month law enforcement investigation into cocaine and heroin trafficking in Holyoke, by members of the La Famailia gang, she said. At the time of his arrest, Colon Amadeo also had an open case, dating back to 2015, where he was facing drug and firearms charges, court records said. The case was investigated by the FBI, Massachusetts State Police and Holyoke Police, she said. A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit brought by three students of Mount Ida College, who sued the school over its sudden closure. Judge Richard Stearns, in a 17-page ruling issued Friday, found in favor of Mount Ida College. The small Newton school closed suddenly at the end of the 2018. The plaintiffs were Tristan Squeri, a former Mount Ida student; Madeline McClain, a prospective student from New Jersey who had planned to enroll in the fall; and George O'Dea, a former student in the college's funeral service program. The three claimed that Mount Ida College failed to notify them of the schools dire financial straits despite a duty to do so. They also said the school shared their academic and financial information with the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth without their consent as part of an arrangement to allow students to continue their studies at the school. Stearns wrote in his ruling that Mount Ida officials had a legitimate purpose in sharing the students files, to help students enroll at UMass Dartmouth as a successor institution. The judge found that the students did not show that Mount Ida lied about its financial condition, only that it did not volunteer additional information. The judge disagreed with the students argument that the school had a duty to provide that information. Its been a whirlwind week in Canaan, New Hampshire, with television cameras descending on the town of fewer than 4,000 after news of a cafeteria worker being fired for giving a student a free meal garnered national media attention. Bonnie Kimball claimed that she had lost her job when a supervisor caught her giving food worth $8 to a student whose account had no money. She received an outpouring of support after the story went viral, including a job offer from celebrity chef Jose Andres, and the contractor that employed her offered to rehire her. But now the school district has withdrawn its support for Kimball after the student's mother shared information with the New Hampshire Union Leader suggesting Kimball lied and engaged in a "cover-up." Kimball had served lunch in the cafeteria of Mascoma Valley Regional High for nearly five years, according to the Valley News, when she was fired March 29. The Union Leader reported, based on her account, that the termination came in response to a manager catching her giving one meal to a student who had no money in his lunch account. After an outpouring of public support for Kimball, the president of the Cafe Services subsidiary that employed her, Brian Stone, said in a May 17 statement to The Washington Post that the company would offer to rehire her. That same day, Kimball told the Associated Press she wasn't interested in taking the job back, alleging that the company, Fresh Picks Cafe, had offered her her job back "so that it could keep its contract [with the school district]." But the mother of the student who got the free lunch from Kimball has now told the Union Leader that Kimball has been dishonest. She said that her son, a 17-year-old, was supposed to bring his own lunches. "I have three children, and they are all well-cared for and well-fed," the mother told the Union Leader. "She did not get fired for feeding a hungry child." The woman, who the Union Leader did not name to protect her privacy, also shared Facebook messages from Kimball to the teenager attempting to cover up her account given to the news media. "We will prolly get written up," Kimball wrote, according to the messages cited by the Union Leader, "but we can make it look good. Lol." Stone said that the teenager received free food from Kimball for three months, not just one meal. The student's mother told the Union Leader that she did not know why Kimball was giving her son free food. "We have nothing to do with her outside of the school system," she told the paper. Kimball rejected the student's mother's claims of a coverup, the Union Leader reported. After the story went viral, Kimball started a GoFundMe account that has raised $8,498 as of May 24. A representative for GoFundMe, who had previously verified the account, told The Washington Post, "GoFundMe will honor refund requests by donors. To date, we have not received any requests for refunds." When first reached for comment May 17, a Cafe Services representative told The Post that "the information as reported is untrue" but declined to elaborate. The school district superintendent, Amanda Isabelle, confirmed that district policy is to provide lunch to every student, regardless of their ability to pay. On May 20, Stone, the president of the Cafe Services subsidiary that employed Kimball, released a video statement explaining that while he had not commented on the matter before out of "respect for the privacy and confidentiality of our employees," he wanted to correct the record. "This student hadn't been charged for anything for the previous three months," Stone said. "This employee was dishonest and was let go for not following procedures." Isabelle, the school district superintendent, wrote in a May 22 Facebook post that the district was "rescinding its demand that the employee be rehired." "We have been overwhelmed by a crush of national and international media interest in this incident," Isabelle wrote, "but I do not believe we have yet seen a full and complete retelling of the facts." In a separate statement sent to The Post, Stone said he hoped the attention on the story could be directed instead to organizations such as Friends of Mascoma, which supports nutrition in the area. He closed his video statement with a call for a return to normal. Wed like to get back to the business of feeding kids, he said, because thats what we love to do. -- The Washington Post Rocket Man has come down to earth, at least in the eye of our president. North Korea's despotic leader, Kim Jong Un, was once derided by President Donald Trump as "Little Rocket man" for his nuclear and missile programs. But that was then. Now, even though Kim has again been test firing short-range missiles, a clear violation of a United Nations Security Council resolution, Trump says all is just hunky-dory. But defending one of the planet's most repressive dictators while on an overseas trip to Japan apparently wasn't sufficiently out of bounds for the norm-breaking Trump. He also decided to point out that he agrees with Kim's disparaging assessment of former Vice President Joe Biden, who is currently leading in polls of the Democratic Party's presidential candidates. "Well, Kim Jong Un made a statement that Joe Biden is a low-IQ individual," Trump said at a press conference. "He probably is, based on his record. I think I agree with him on that." Consider a completely fictitious scenario from 1983. Picture then-President Ronald Reagan on an overseas trip not only brushing off some incendiary behavior by Iran's leader, but also noting that he agreed with the despot's assessment of former Vice President Walter Mondale. Trying to conjure such a thing is impossible, of course, because it's literally unimaginable. Until Trump, U.S. presidents knew who were our adversaries, and knew, too, who were our friends. But not only that. Tradition also held that a president didn't engage in politics when he was outside the United States. Politicking stopped, the saying had it, at the water's edge. Not for The Donald, though. He continues to believe, all evidence to the contrary, that he and Kim have a special relationship. And he feels just fine and dandy tweeting, or saying, whatever he wants, wherever he wants, history and tradition be damned. Trump says he isn't bothered at all by Kim's recent rocket tests. It's difficult to say why this is, of course. Perhaps he's merely trying to save face, not able to admit that his earlier efforts to denuclearize Kim's North Korea were likely all for naught. Or maybe he's got designs on building a Trump Tower Pyongyang a few years down the line. Whatever it is that he's been thinking, he's most decidedly alone on this one, with even some congressional Republicans speaking out against ignoring Kim's recent missile tests. What a difference two years makes. Back in 2017, Trump had pledged that Kim would face "fire and fury" if the isolated nation didn't halt its weapons tests. But that was before Trump developed his inexplicable crush on the murderous Kim, who once had a top government official executed, by firing squad, for having slumped in his seat during an address from the leader. One wonders if our nation's narcissist in chief is perhaps not a little envious of such power. In much the same way that he supported statements made by Russian President Vladimir Putin that contradicted the findings of our nation's intelligence apparatus, Trump is now siding with Kim, rather than listening to those in our government who are rightly highly concerned about the broad gulf between the words and the deeds of the totalitarian leader. Its difficult to see how this ends well, for as long as Trump sees Little Rocket Man as his dear friend, the North Korean leader will continue to have the upper hand. The intention was well-meaning if also naive. The United States Army chose the Memorial Day weekend to ask veterans to share their memories and experiences of serving the nation, and describe how their service impacted them. The Army presumably sought veterans who were proud of their experiences, moved by the sacrifices of their comrades, and proud to have defended the cause of freedom. Many, many veterans responded in just that way. How has serving impacted you? U.S. Army (@USArmy) May 23, 2019 But there were others, thousands in fact, who told much different stories. Theirs were tales of trauma, sexual assault, depression, nightmares, pain, addiction and suicide. By the morning after Memorial Day, more than 11,000 respondents had delivered an array of messages that jar the Old Hollywood image of military life as heroic, rewarding and assured of a happy ending. Faced with a public relations nightmare of its own making, the Army responded as best it could. To everyone who responded to this thread, thank you for sharing your story. Your stories are real, they matter, and they may help others in similar situations. The Army is committed to the health, safety, and well-being of our Soldiers, a followup tweet read. If so, those in charge have a lot of work to do. In hindsight, asking veterans to describe the Armys impact on their lives was loaded with risk. Assume an outpouring only of patriotic, reassuring responses was the height of unawareness. This episode turned into a case study of an overlooked truth: dont ask a question unless you are prepared for any possible answer, including those you dont want to hear. Was the response helpful to the healing of individual veterans who could share at least brief versions of their stories? That would depend on each respondent. The tone of many messages says no, for it reflected damaged, bitter human beings whose post-military lives have been filled with torment - the likes of which are not softened or erased by one tweet. Perhaps there was a cathartic effect for some who now know theyre not alone. The array of problems described is vast, and psychologists say that even if such problems are widespread, those afflicted often feel alone and isolated, as if this hellish experience is theirs alone. What this overwhelming response does signify is how far the United States must go to deal with deep-rooted problems. The nation is filled with men and women who have served the country and leave their duty with battered physical, mental, emotional or psychological states. Our Republican president has portrayed himself as a friend of the military. Republicans and Democrats express themselves differently, but all swear their allegiance to our men and women in uniform. And military brass, in the Army as well as in other branches, insist the commitment to veterans in need is unwavering and at the highest priority in U.S. military history. Here is their chance to prove it. The controversial tweet has brought to light the depths of problems Americans dont want to hear about, but which does exist. Anybody who loves this country cannot be satisfied until better ways are advanced to let veterans know they will be treated with respect while in the service, and not left isolated with severe problems once they come home. Only if thats the result will this tweet have been worth it. BOSTON First baseman Mitch Moreland is not in the Boston Red Sox lineup Monday for a second straight day against a right-handed starter. But hes expected to play Tuesday and Wednesday against the Indians. He was a little bit banged up, manager Alex Cora explained about Moreland. He took that bullet off his knee in Houston. Yuli Gurriel singled sharply off Morelands knee in Houstons 4-3 win over the Red Sox on Saturday. Cora told Moreland it would be smart for him to receive two days off in a row. And hes like, Yeah, I agree with you," Cora said. "Hes available off the bench. But I think two days off is going to benefit him. He said next time hell make sure he gets leather on that ball. Moreland leads all Red Sox hitters in homers (13), RBIs (34) and slugging percentage (.550). A 25-year-old Worcester woman who police believe drove Devon Rivera to the scene of a May 13 murder in Worcester was arraigned in Worcester District Court Monday. Ariana Boss was arraigned on an accessory after the fact of murder charge in court. She was arrested on the charge over the weekend and released after posting $5,000 cash bail. Boss is accused of driving Rivera, the man facing a murder charge in the killing of Roberto Hernandez Gil, to and from the fatal shooting scene, according to records on file in court. Hernandez Gil was found on Russell Street in the drivers seat of a car with several gunshot wounds to the head, chest and abdomen around 10 p.m. on May 13. Rivera, a 26-year-old man from Worcester, was arraigned May 15 in Worcester District Court on a murder charge in Hernandez Gils death. Rivera also faces firearms and assault charges. He remains held without bail. Authorities said Rivera was caught with the victims cell phone along with a gun and ammunition at the time of his arrest. The ammunition in the backpack matched the shell casings found at the scene of the killing, according to a statement of facts filed in court. Video surveillance shows Rivera was at the scene of the killing, records said. Rivera was caught leaving a residence at 488 Sunderland Road. Records show Boss lives at the same address. Boss took Rivera to the scene of the shooting, police said in court records. Surveillance videos showed that the operator of the Sentra left the scene of the shooting with the vehicles lights off, and also returned to the scene minutes later and waited for the suspect to go back to the victims car a second time, police said. Hernandez Gils car had collided with a parked car on Russell Street during the shooting, records show. Police used phone records to place Rivera and Boss in the area of the shooting. Boss defense lawyer said she had no idea what happened and didnt see anything happen the night of the killing. A judge placed Boss on the same $5,000 cash bail she previously posted and continued her case until July 1, the same day Rivera returns to court. A Rhode Island man who was arrested in the shooting of a Boston police officer last year was out on bail when he was picked up on firearms charges in Worcester over the weekend. In this latest arrest, Antoine Mack, 36 of Pawtucket, was held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing scheduled for Friday in Worcester District Court. Mack was one of two people arrested in September after a plainclothes Boston police officer was shot in the leg. The officer recovered after the shooting. During his initial arraignment, Mack pleaded not guilty to armed assault with intent to murder and other charges in connection with the officers shooting. He was held without bail. A Suffolk District Attorneys office spokeswoman said Mack was later indicted on charges of ammunition possession and being an armed career criminal. He was arraigned in Suffolk Superior Court on Dec. 17 and had bail set at $10,000. It is unclear when he posted bail. Worcester police learned Mack was allegedly in possession of a gun in the city on Friday, according to a police statement on file in court. The report said police were warned about Macks violent history with law enforcement in the past. Mack does not have a license to carry a firearm. Officers spotted Mack in the rear passengers seat of a car on Grafton Street around 6:30 p.m. Friday. Police stopped the car and a police dog was called to the scene. The officer said he unholstered his gun and ordered Mack out of the car, according to records. Mack and the driver were then handcuffed. Police said they spotted a white plastic bag in the back seat. A loaded silver pistol was inside the bag, according to authorities. The driver of the car told police that the bag wasnt his. Mack was then arrested on the gun charges. The driver was released. Mack had his bail revoked in the Suffolk Superior Court case after his arraignment in Worcester District Court Tuesday. According to the police report released to the media, members of the Boston Police Department's youth violence strike force were on patrol in the West Springfield Street area and saw three men standing near the door of one of the homes on Sept. 23. Two men allegedly grabbed onto their respective waists as if securing something, and then turned and entered the foyer area" of the home. Officers followed the men into the building and saw the men go inside a first-floor apartment. The officers reached for the door and one officer put his left foot between the door to prevent it from shutting, police reports said. The officers yelled, Police! At one point, the door opened enough for the officers to see inside the apartment, which was extremely dark, having no lights on, the report says. At that point, the officers observed a muzzle flash from the interior staircase and also heard a shot as it happened. Officer [REDACTED] felt a stinging sensation to his left leg. Selected students from McDowell High Schools Occupational Course of Study (OCS) Program were honored with an awards luncheon on Thursday at McDowell Technical Community College, followed by presentation of Awards of Excellence in McDowell Techs Crane Resistoflex Auditorium. We are so proud of each of you, Glenda Starr told the recipients. Starr is Director of Exceptional Children Programs for McDowell County Schools. The OCS Program combines academic coursework at MHS with training in occupational and employability skills designed to prepare students for workplace success following high school graduation. Melora Bennett, assistant principal at MHS, was the featured speaker at this years awards program. She challenged students to be better individually every day of their life than they were the day before. The third courtroom section is located on the top level of the County Administration Buildings parking deck, immediately behind the courthouse. This section also has space for attorney conferences, the criminal clerks office and the magistrates office. In March of last year, the commissioners approved the low bid for the construction, which was submitted by Beam Construction at $6,623,300. The board voted unanimously to finance $5,654,000 of that amount over a 15-year period with BB&T. The remainder will be paid from fund balance, which is the undesignated portion of the county budget set aside for unexpected needs. Holland & Hamrick Architects of Shelby is the architectural firm for this project. The reason behind the building of the third courtroom is to provide a better place for District Court. For years, District Court has met in the lower level courtroom, which is also used for DSS court and probate hearings. The overall project will include the replacement of windows in the courthouse, the replacement of the heating and cooling systems with modern and efficient components along with the additional courtroom. There are other improvements planned such as updated carpeting and lighting in offices and the relocation of a lower level restroom in the courthouse. The parking deck for the County Administration Building will be repaired to eliminate leaks. Also, the exterior of the courthouse will be cleaned and the administration building will be cleaned and painted. Another goal is to move the District Attorneys office into the section of the courthouse formerly used by the Register of Deeds, which has since moved to a building on Fort Street. The global knee replacement market is expected to grow at a staggering CAGR of 6.1% over the forecast period (2017-2023), Market Research Future (MRFR) asserts. Rise in geriatric population and a surge in diseases such as osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis have made the knee replacement market a booming one. FREE SAMPLE REPORT @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1578 Drivers and Restraints: Sedentary lifestyle, along with increasing geriatric population is playing a distinct role in shaping the global knee replacement market. Among other issues, obesity and sports-related injuries are of pressing concern. With the advent of newer technologies, minimally invasive surgeries are also a possibility now and have spurred the need for knee replacement. However, the global slowdown of economies and stringent stipulations implemented by various governments could deter the predicted growth rate during the forecast period. Segmentation: Global Knee Replacement Market Segmentation The report has been segmented into four key dynamics for enhanced understanding. By Type of Test: Revision Knee Reconstructive (RKR), Total Knee Replacement (TKR), and Partial (half) Knee Replacement (PKR) Implants among others. BY Material: Metal Alloy, Ceramic Material, and Strong Plastic Parts among others. By End-user: Hospital, Clinics, specialty centers, and Rehabilitation Centres among others. By Regions: Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, and the Rest-of-the-World. Regional Analysis: Geographically, this segment includes North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East & Africa. North America is leading the population as various factors, such as rising geriatric population and technological advancement are making knee replacement a preferred alternative. Government initiatives are also pushing the market ahead. High procedural cost and reimbursement coverage can spur the demand for knee replacement procedure during the forecast period. Europe is the second largest market. Increasing geriatric population, rising number of skilled professionals and advanced medical facilities are expected to play as a catalyst for the growth of this market. Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region due to the prevalence of various joint-related diseases, such as arthritis and osteoarthritis. The increasing healthcare expenditure and the overall growth of the healthcare diagnostic and treatment industry are expected to drive the market forward. In addition, the booming medical tourism industry in the emerging economies of India and China is bolstering the knee replacement market in Asia Pacific region. The Middle East and Africa are expected to show the least market growth owing to lack of awareness and limited access and affordability of treatment facilities. The United Arab Emirates is predicted to record a healthy growth due to the development of healthcare infrastructure. Table Of Content 1.Report Prologue 2.Market Introduction 2.1 Definition 2.2 Scope Of The Study 2.2.1 Research Objective 2.2.2 Assumptions 2.2.3 Limitations 3.Research Methodology 3.1 Introduction 3.2 Primary Research 3.3 Secondary Research 3.4 Market Size Estimation 4.Market Dynamics 4.1 Drivers 4.2 Restraints 4.3 Opportunities 4.4 Challenges 4.5 Macroeconomic Indicators 4.6 Technology Trends & Assessment 5.Market Factor Analysis Get Complete Report With TOC @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/knee-replacement-market-1578 Industry News: Researchers are coming up with various new methods to enhance the experience of the patients. Robotically assisted operations are continually evolving bettering the prospect of knee replacement components positioning. For instance, DePuy Synthes, part of the Johnson & Johnson Medical Devices Companies, has recently launched ATTUNE Revision Knee System to provide stability during movement. In addition, it helps in precise balancing of muscle and ligament. Minimally invasive surgeries have now reduced the tissue trauma and the pain associated with it. However, there are also researches going on that could impede the recent advancements of the technology. For instance, according to a study presented recently at Society of Interventional Radiologys annual meeting, in Los Angeles, tiny pellets inserted into blood vessels around the knee could slow down the effects of diseases, such as arthritis. About Market Research Future: At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services. MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by Components, Application, Logistics and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. Contact: Market Research Future Office No. 528, Amanora Chambers Magarpatta Road, Hadapsar, Pune 411028 Maharashtra, India +1 646 845 9312 Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Respiratory Inhaler Devices Industry 2019 Description:- Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market: By Product Type (Metered Dose Inhaler, Nebulizer, Dry Powder Inhaler), By Technology (Manually Operated Inhalers, Digitally Operated Inhalers), By Disease Indication (Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, Others), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, Online Pharmacies), and Geography Market Estimation, Dynamics, Regional Share, Trends, Competitor Analysis 2012-2016 and Forecast 2017-2023 Get a Free Sample Report @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2984812-respiratory-inhaler-devices-market-global-market-estimation-dynamics For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.com Market Outline: Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Respiratory inhaler devices are the medical devices that deliver the medication to prevent or control the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and other respiratory disorders. Various types of respiratory inhaler devices are available in the market such as metered dose inhaler, dry powder inhaler, and nebulizer. Market Dynamics: Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Increase in the prevalence of COPD, asthma, and other respiratory disorder, technological advancements in respiratory inhaler devices, rapid industrialization and rise in smoking population are anticipated to fuel the market. Moreover, ease of administration of drug with respiratory inhaler devices, cost-effective of the products, and growing newborn babies and geriatric population who often exposed to one or the other respiratory disorders are anticipated to boost the respiratory inhaler devices market over the forecast period. However, adverse effects associated with drug inhalation, product recalls, lack of single effective inhalers for all types of disease, and lack of awareness about respiratory inhalers in underdeveloped countries expected to hamper the growth of respiratory inhaler devices market over the forecast timeframe. Market Scope: Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Respiratory inhaler devices market is segmented based on the product type, technology, disease indication, and distribution channel Based on the product type, the market is segmented into the following: Metered Dose Inhaler Nebulizer Dry Powder Inhaler Based on the technology, the market is segmented into the following: Manually Operated Inhalers Digitally Operated Inhalers Based on the disease indication, the market is segmented into the following: Asthma Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Others Based on the distribution channel, the market is segmented into the following: Hospital Pharmacies Retail Pharmacies Online Pharmacies Market Summary: Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Escalation in the number of industries led to an abnormal increase in environmental pollution that causes respiratory diseases such as COPD and asthma might propel the respiratory inhaler devices market. According to World Health Organization approximately 3 Mn deaths were observed in 2015 around the globe. Increase in the tobacco consumption majorly in middle and low income countries may causes respiratory disorders and which in turn drive the respiratory inhaler devices market. Moreover, most of the market players are focusing on the development of newer respiratory inhaler devices which are more convenient for drug administration. Furthermore, acquisitions and mergers, product approvals, and product launchings are the strategies followed by market players for garnering larger revenue share in respiratory inhaler devices market. For instance, in April 2016, AstraZeneca received FDA approval for Bevepsi Aeresphere (glycopyrrolate and formoterol fumarate) inhalation aerosol used in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In addition, in January 2016, Novartis AG collaborated with Qualcomm, Inc. for the innovation of digital technology for Breezhaler inhaler used in the treatment of COPD. Regional Analysis: Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Geographically, global respiratory inhaler devices market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. North America respiratory inhaler devices market is growing due to increase in the prevalence of respiratory disorders such as COPD (according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2014, approximately 15.7 Mn Americans were diagnosed with COPD), high awareness about the respiratory inhalers, and technological advancements in the devices are anticipated to fuel the market. Europe respiratory inhaler devices market driven by increase in the prevalence of respiratory disorders such as COPD and asthma majorly in Sweden, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, and Portugal, adoption of newer respiratory inhaler devices, and expansion of business by market players in the region. For instance, in November 2015 Sandoz launched AirFluSal Forspiro in UK. Asia Pacific respiratory inhaler devices market has a lucrative growth, which is attributed to increase in geriatric and newborn population, rise in health awareness, and growing pollution due to rapid industrialization in the region. Latin America respiratory inhaler devices market is poised to grow at significant rate owing to product approval in Latin America region. For instance, in August 2014, Sandoz received Mexicos Health Authority (COFEPRIS) approval for the marketing of Airflusal Forspiro used in COPD. Middle East and Africa respiratory inhaler devices market driven by product launchings by the market players in Africa region. For instance, in January 2017, Cipla launched respiratory inhaler Synchrobreathe in South Africa. Moreover, increase in tobacco consumption and increase in pollution due to increasing the number of industries are anticipated to boost the market in the region. Competition Assessment: Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Some of the players in the global respiratory inhaler devices market include: Cipla Ltd. (India) Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (Bangladesh) Merck & Co., Inc. (U.S.) GlaxoSmithKline plc (U.K.) AstraZeneca plc (U.K.) Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH (Germany) Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands) Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (Israel) OMRON Healthcare Europe B.V. (Netherlands) Novartis AG (Switzerland) PARI Medical Holding GmbH (Germany) Report Details @ https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/2984812-respiratory-inhaler-devices-market-global-market-estimation-dynamics Table Of Contents Major Key Points Executive Summary Global Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Introduction Global Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Dynamics Global Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Analysis, 2012 2016 and Forecast, 2017 2023 Global Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market, By Product, 2012 2016 and Forecast, 2017 2023 Global Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Forecast, By Technology, 2012 2016 and Forecast, 2017 2023 Global Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Forecast, By Disease Indication, 2012 2016 and Forecast, 2017 2023 Global Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Forecast, By Distribution Channel, 2012 2016 and Forecast, 2017 2023 Global Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Forecast, By Region, 2012 2016 and Forecast, 2017 2023 North America Respiratory Inhaler Devices Market Analysis, 2012 2016 and Forecast, 2017 2023 Continued Also Read : Global Egg Allergy Market Research Report Forecast to 2023 CONTACT US: NORAH TRENT Partner Relations & Marketing Manager sales@wiseguyreports.com www.wiseguyreports.com Ph: +1-646-845-9349 (US) Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK) ABOUT US: Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories. by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, May 28, 2019 Merkle is developing a Performance Marketing Lab to assist brands in building better marketing teams, technologies, and strategies within their own organizations. We realized that even within our company we need to stitch together a cross-functional team, said Matthew Mierzejewski, SVP of search capability lead at digital advertising agency Merkle. So were flipping the script by creating a smart performance marketing lab because we need to educate our clients on these emerging best practices. Brands still miss the connections between departments and technology, in a way that is similar to how data sits in silos of search, display, social and television. While many of the kinks are still being worked out, the Lab brings together departments focused on data science, web development and IT, product development and design, market research, media analytics, and subject matter experts in media. The strategy relies on concepts such as cross-channel marketing and uses it to integrate strategies such as predictive lifetime and CRM modeling into search, social and display campaigns. advertisement advertisement Many of the Merkle employees participating in the project are located in the companys Charlottesville, Virginia and New York offices. The plan is to launch a web page describing the best practices that will more clearly explain the strategy. As part of the information, the group will provide insight into when marketers should license specific technology and when to build it. Mierzejewski said one of the major challenges is the inability of developers and brands to communicate with each other. For example, many of the web developers working on a brands project will never directly talk with the marketer spearheading the project, but they write the code and build the projects platform. Sometimes the developer will even spearhead the integration of Merkles priority data with the brands CRM data into Googles cloud platform -- all without having direct content with the brands marketer. There are back-end requirements. Data scientists need that direct contact with the brand to know how to best integrate the data into machine-learning applications for text mining, for example, Mierzejewski said, adding that many of the interfaces are built through the media analytics and media agents in specific subjects without ever having direct contact. by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, May 28, 2019 All new websites that were previously unknown to Google Search will be indexed using the companys mobile-first indexing method starting on July 1, the company announced Tuesday. For new websites, this indexing feature will become enabled by default, so there are no plans for Google to notify webmasters. Google suggests that website owners check for this indexing through the URL Inspection Tool in Search Console. This will provide information on how the content was crawled and indexed. Google will continue to support dynamic serving and separate mobile URLs for mobile websites, but the company says it recommends responsive web design for new websites, wrote John Mueller, developer advocate at Google Zurich. Because of issues and confusion we've seen from separate mobile URLs over the years, both from search engines and users, we recommend using a single URL for both desktop and mobile websites, he wrote. Googles analysis shows new websites are generally ready for this method of crawling. Rather than analyze the desktop version of the web page, Google now looks at the mobile version of the page before rendering it -- on a mobile phone and sometimes on desktop. advertisement advertisement Older web sites that are not indexed using the mobile-first indexing method will be moved when those web sites are ready. In December, Google announced that two years after it began working on its mobile-first indexing strategy, more than half of the pages served globally in search results are done using its mobile-first indexing. by Chuck Martin , May 28, 2019 Uber Elevate has asked the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to allow it to deliver food by drone in San Diego. In a petition filed with the FAA by Luke Fischer, head of flight operations at Uber Elevate, the company is asking for certification to conduct a small package food delivery service. Uber Elevate, Inc. seeks exemptions to allow it to conduct part 119 air carrier operations for compensation or hire under part 135 using small unmanned aircraft systems (small UAS), states the petition. Specifically, Uber Elevate., Inc. seeks permission to conduct small UAS carrier operations for commercial food package delivery in the United States, initially in the City of San Diego. Uber Elevate plans to use the Air Robot 200 UAS, a star-shaped hexa-copter, which can carry up to 25 pounds and can fly just over three miles. A new study has found that people with bipolar disorder have a higher risk of developing Parkinsons disease. Also, having bipolar disorder of a higher severity seems to increase the risk even further. Share on Pinterest A large-scale study finds links between bipolar disorder and Parkinsons. Previous studies have found links between depression and Parkinsons disease, but few have examined whether a link exists between bipolar disorder and Parkinsons. Recently, however, lead study author Mu-Hong Chen and collagues from Taipei Veterans General Hospital in Taiwan decided to investigate. They have now published their findings in the journal Neurology. In Parkinsons, neurons in certain parts of the brain gradually die, which results in symptoms that include tremor, rigidity, slower movement, and difficulties in balancing, swallowing, and speaking. In the United States, doctors diagnose Parkinsons in around 50,000 people each year. Currently, about 500,000 people in the U.S. have the condition. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) say that more people will develop Parkinsons as we start to live longer, and that the likelihood of developing the condition will increase the older we get. People with Parkinsons disease usually take a drug called levodopa to help slow the degeneration of the brain. Parkinsons risk increased by factor of 7 Chen and colleagues examined the health records of 56,340 people with diagnosed bipolar disorder in Taiwan. All had received their diagnoses in 20012009. The researchers compared these data with the health records of 225,360 people in Taiwan with no diagnosis of either bipolar disorder or Parkinsons disease. The scientists followed both groups through 2011. After analyzing their data, they found that 0.7% of the people with bipolar disorder developed Parkinsons during the study, and that only 0.1% of the control group developed it. The researchers adjusted their findings to take into account factors such as medication history, age, sex, and history of diseases and injuries affecting the brain, all of which could influence a persons risk of developing Parkinsons. After adjustment, they found that participants were almost seven times more likely to develop Parkinsons if they had a diagnosis of bipolar disorder at the start of the study, compared with those who did not have bipolar disorder. The team also noticed some differences between people with bipolar who developed Parkinsons and people without bipolar who developed it: Those who had bipolar disorder developed Parkinsons at a younger age (64, on average) than those who did not have bipolar disorder (age 73, on average). It also seems that the severity of the bipolar disorder influenced the level of risk; people who had to go the hospital due to bipolar disorder most often had the highest risk of developing Parkinsons at a later stage in their lives. Specifically, those who had been to the hospital once or twice each year were four times more likely to develop Parkinsons compared with people whose bipolar disorder resulted in one hospitalization or fewer per year. For people who had been to the hospital more than twice per year, the increase in risk was even higher; the people in this group were six times more likely to develop Parkinsons than those who had been to the hospital less than once each year. But weve found a sophisticated functional system lurking beneath the surface, organized in segments to allow different immune system functions in different locations. The research the findings of which appear in the journal Nature reveals an essential distinction in the structure and organization of the intestinal immune system, which makes certain parts of the intestines more likely to mount an immune response against pathogens (harmful agents) than other parts. At the same time, however, the intestinal wall prevents most harmful agents from passing through and infecting the blood. But how does it happen? This is the question that researchers from the Rockefeller University in New York, NY, have tried to answer by conducting a preliminary study in mice. In the lower gastrointestinal tract, partially digested food from the stomach is broken down further into its constituent nutrients, which then pass into the bloodstream through the intestinal wall, so that they can reach different organs and parts of the body. Mammals, including humans, possess two intestines the small and the large as part of their digestive system. These intestines together make up the lower gastrointestinal tract, and they play a crucial role in digestion and excretion. The intestines of mammals allow nutrients to pass through to the rest of the body while stopping most harmful bacteria from doing the same. New research in mice now reveals how this is possible, suggesting implications for drug design and delivery. To better understand how the intestines screen for harmful bacteria and keep them at bay, the researchers looked at gut-draining lymph nodes in mice. These structures help mount an immune response against pathogens, ensuring that they do not pass through the intestinal wall. The investigators made two important findings: Firstly, that different gut lymph nodes have distinct cell compositions, and, secondly, that these depend on where in the lower gastrointestinal tract they are situated. In order to find out how different lymph nodes responded to pathogens, the researchers introduced Salmonella enterica into the mices guts. In doing this, they saw that some lymph nodes were more likely to mount an immune response against the bacterium than others. Specifically, it was the lymph nodes in the large intestine (colon) that reacted against the Salmonella, ensuring it did not infect the rest of the system. By contrast, the lymph nodes in the small intestine played more of a role in absorbing nutrients and delivering them into the bloodstream. The researchers explain that this separation makes sense: Once the small intestine has absorbed the nutrients, the lymph nodes in the large intestine can target and eliminate any pathogens. Mucida and colleagues also point out that knowing which part of the intestines is able to mount the strongest immune response can help researchers devise better therapeutic strategies for gastrointestinal conditions. Furthermore, the current revelations could pave the way to enhance the effectiveness of oral vaccines, which, so far, have been unable to generate strong enough immune responses. After considering the findings of the present study, its authors believe that oral vaccines may be ineffective because their active ingredients engage with immune system elements in the small intestine, which are unable to mount a robust immune response. In theory, targeting the distant end of the intestine could be more efficient in inducing the immune response required, notes Mucida, adding that, [i]f we harness the right region of the gut, we might see some vaccines work that have previously failed. Ensuring good oral hygiene could help to prevent stroke. This was what scientists proposed after finding DNA traces of oral bacteria in samples of blood clots that had caused strokes. Share on Pinterest New research suggests that good oral hygiene may protect against stroke. Researchers from Tampere University in Finland analyzed clot samples from 75 people who received emergency treatment for ischemic stroke when they attended Tampere University Hospitals Acute Stroke Unit. The patients had undergone thrombectomies. These procedures remove blood clots by means of catheters conducted through arteries. The catheters can deploy stent retrievers and aspirators to reduce or remove the clot. When they analyzed blood clots sampled in this way, the researchers found that 79% of them bore DNA from common oral bacteria. Most of the bacteria were of the Streptococcus mitis type, which belong to a group that scientists call viridans streptococci. The levels of the oral bacteria were much higher in the blood clot samples than they were in other samples that surgeons took from the same patients. The team reports the findings in a recent Journal of the American Heart Association study. Larger picture implicates bacteria in clots The study forms part of a large investigation that Tampere University has been conducting for around 10 years on the role of bacteria in cardiovascular diseases. This investigation has already found that blood clots that have caused heart attacks, brain aneurysms, and thromboses in leg veins and arteries, contain oral bacteria, particularly viridans streptococci. It has also shown that these bacteria can cause infective endocarditis, a type of heart infection. The researchers believe that the new study is the first to implicate viridans streptococci in acute ischemic stroke. A stroke is when the brain suddenly experiences a disruption to its blood supply. This starves cells of essential oxygen and nutrients and can result in tissue damage and loss of function in the brain. The most common type of stroke is an ischemic stroke, which occurs when a blood clot reduces the blood supply in an artery that feeds the brain. According to figures from the World Stroke Organization , around 1 in 6 people worldwide will likely experience a stroke in their lifetime. One of the leading causes of stroke is a condition called atherosclerosis in which plaques form in the walls of arteries and cause them to narrow and harden over time. The plaques are deposits of cellular waste, fat, cholesterol, and other materials. Depending on where the plaques form, atherosclerosis can raise the risk of heart disease, angina, carotid artery disease, and peripheral artery disease. However, plaques can also lose bits into the bloodstream, or attract clots. If such an event affects an artery supplying blood to the brain, it can trigger an ischemic stroke. NORWALK, Conn. May 28, 2019 Connecticut Monday, June 17 Monday, July 31 Connecticut's Danbury Norwalk Stamford Trumbull Connecticut's 9:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Connecticut Cynthia Murdock Connecticut Connecticut's Connecticut Connecticut Connecticut Connecticut Fairfield County's Connecticut's Connecticut /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- RMA of, a leading fertility practice whose exceptional quality and care helps couples and individuals grow their family, is supporting teachers by offering complimentary AMH fertility testing to all female teachers this summer beginningthrough. Any teacher interested in her reproductive health, whether she plans to start a family now or in the future, can visit any of the following RMA oflocations (and) for an anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) blood test, an excellent measure of a woman's ovarian reserve, which naturally declines with age. RMA ofmedical staff will be available to draw blood for the AMH tests fromThe AMH fertility test results help determine a woman's chances of becoming pregnant now and in the future. Women can take this test while on the birth control pill or at any time during their menstrual cycle. Teachers who come to RMA ofwill have their blood drawn and will receive a phone call from a nurse with results within 10 business days."Like the teachers we created this program for, we believe in education," says Dr., a Board Certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist with RMA of. "We offer workshops, support groups and classes each year because we want our patients to be informed about their fertility. This program is about more than offering a free test; it is an opportunity for women to have the necessary facts to plan for the future and for their family."For more information on RMA offree fertility testing for teachers, visit https://www.rmact.com/teachersAbout Reproductive Medicine Associates of(RMA ofRMA ofis a leader in fertility care, specializing in a range of infertility treatments. Our assisted reproductive technologies (ART) include intrauterine insemination (IUI), in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT). RMA ofislargest fertility clinic and egg donation center. Through RMA ofIntegrated Fertility and Wellness Center, we offer nutrition counseling, individual and couples psychological counseling, acupuncture and yoga, as well as financing and support services for our patients going through infertility treatment.SOURCE RMA of Advertisement They also estimated the number of qualified and unqualified healthcare workers working in India using the 68th round (July 2011-June 2012) of National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO) data on 'Employment and Unemployment Situation in India' - a household survey conducted every five years.As well as registered practitioners, the health workforce in India includes many informal medical practitioners, such as traditional birth attendants, faith healers, snakebite curers, and bonesetters without formal education or training.The total size of health workforce registered with different councils and associations was 5 million, but the NSSO estimated the size of the workforce to be 1.2 million fewer at 3.8 million.Based on the registration data, the density of the total health workforce was estimated to be 38 per 10,000 population, but the NSSO data found it be lower at 29 per 10,000 population. In eastern and rural states total health workforce density was lower than the WHO minimum threshold of 22.8 per 10,000 population.According to the registry data, the density of doctors and nurses and midwives per 10,000 population across India was 26.7, whereas the NSS0 data put it at 20.6. The estimates also reveal "an alarmingly large presence of unqualified health professionals," as adjusting for adequate qualifications of health workers reduced the workforce density from 29 to 16 health workers per 10,000 population.The presence of unqualified health professionals in the health system is not unique in India. Unqualified health professionals are usually the first point of contact for rural and poor population in many low-income and middle-income countries.The data also showed that approximately 25% of currently working health professionals do not have the required qualifications as laid down by professional councils and that 20% of adequately qualified doctors are not in the current workforce. More than 80% of doctors and 70% of nurses and midwives were employed in the private sector.The researchers point to several limitations of their study, including the registration data being inadequately updated and likely to include deceased, unemployed and professionals who have migrated overseas, and the survey data being self- and also outdated reported.Nevertheless, the authors were able to conclude: "Distribution and qualification of health professionals are serious problems in India when compared with the overall size of the health workers."Policy should focus on enhancing the quality of health workers and mainstreaming professionally qualified persons into the health workforce."Source: Eurekalert QUOTES ON INDIAN POPULATION: "On a finite planet, the optimum population providing the best quality of life for all, is clearly much smaller than the maximum, permitting bare survival. The more we are, the less for each; fewer people mean better lives." - Environmental activist Roger Martin It's coming home to roost over the next 50 years or so. It's not just climate change; it's sheer space, places to grow food for this enormous horde. Either we limit our population growth or the natural world will do it for us, and the natural world is doing it for us right now." - Sir David Attenborough Every year the earth loses a significant amount of forest cover through deforestation, dam constructions, farming and agriculture, mining or any other industrial development. Along with forests, a lot of flora, fauna and wildlife is at stake as well as most animals lose forest covers and migrate or get displaced in order to find home again. But efforts in conservation make all the difference to lost forests and their animals and we have one example in maintaining those efforts, right here. Way back in 1994, a Brazilian photojournalist, Sebastiao Salgado, returned from Rwanda, East Africa, where he was capturing the horrors of the genocide. Soon, he was returning home from there, hoping he'd get to spend some time at home, with the lush green forests that surround it, in Minas Gerais area of Brazil. But unfortunately, he didn't find what he had expected. He came home to a dusty and damaged landscape, dried up rivers, no trees or any greenery to support the landscape, and all the wildlife was certainly gone. Salgado was devastated and surprised to find the land covered in 0.5% of trees, which is next to nothing. Sebastiao Selgado facebook Imagine you live in an area which is beautiful and nourishing green. It becomes a part of your life. You wake up with the sounds of birds chirping and peacocks strumming their hefty tunes, welcoming the mornings. Then one day you decide to go away to say study or work elsewhere. But home is home, so you have to go back sometime. And when you're back, the trees, the peacocks, the greenery is all wiped out, because the pollution and the toxic air didn't let anything else breathe. It's a feeling of losing an entire home and that's exactly how Sebastiao Salgado was feeling. The reason I asked you to imagine his situation is because he did something to revive what he had lost, much like what you and I can do, for losing trees and forest covers around our surroundings. Sebastiao Selgado Facebook Salgado's wife, Lelia, seeing how shattered he was suggested a next-to-impossible proposal. She suggested that if the two worked hard enough, they could restore an entire forest, just like how it was. If the forest gains its green cover back, the wildlife will come back on an autopilot. Although, Salgado was a bit doubtful, he agreed to work towards reviving the forest land back to its glory, bringing back all the species that once flourished there. And right after both decided upon this thought, there was no looking back. The first transformative seed was sowed back in 1998, to begin the entire process but the couple realised it wasn't a two people job. So, to help make the process easier to convert a 1,754 acre of land back to a forest, they hired 24 people who worked day and night with the couple to plant saplings and get rid of invasive weeds, that were making it difficult to grow anything there. Sebastiao Selgado Intagram To bring in some amount of funding aid to build the forest simultaneously the couple set up and organisation called Instituto Terra, which recruited partners and volunteers who planted at least 4 million saplings. The main aim of the environmental organisation is to restore the eco-system in the area and help procure and plant the saplings over years, by producing Atantic Forest Seedlings. The community since then has grown bigger and better involving students, farmers, teachers, volunteers and local officials who give their time to build the forest. Along with that, the organisation provides advice to farmers who're helping them out in that region. Instituto Terra Slowly, the efforts the couple made along with the volunteers paid off. Today the forest has a good green cover, with trees native to the region, along with some tropical trees as well. Even though this forest suffered severe deforestation about 20 years ago, today it stands strong as a lush green paradise, almost back to its original state. The forest has 293 species of trees and restored about 1,502 acres of tropical forest land and the work is commendable because once where there was nothing there's an entire forest now. Instituto terra Also, it's a given. Along with the new forest, an entire eco-system was rebuilt from scratch. Due to a new transformation, a tropical microclimate is back, to retain the forest further, with rainfall and natural water bodies that have been formed over time. But the biggest joy factor is welcoming back the wildlife that went missing about 20 years ago from the forest. They eventually all made it back home and how! Instituto terra The return of the wild animals is the most positive transition to have taken place post the recreation of the forest. And that's because there is enough food and protection for them available now. There are now 172 species of birds, 33 types of mammals and 15 species of amphibians and reptiles, most of which are endangered and luckily now, they will live a protected life in their newly built home. Instituto terra This by far is the most motivating and encouraging story we've ever read. Imagine building a forest and bringing it back to its original state, with the animals, flora and fauna intact. In fact, we can make a similar difference in our own surrounding, if we show a little bit of passion and determination toward building a better world. Sebastiao and Lelia certainly did and they wake up each morning and tell themselves if we can built a forest from scratch, anything is possible. Instituto terra Washington The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday declined to hear the appeal of a group of students who object to a Pennsylvania school districts policy of permitting transgender students to use restrooms or locker rooms consistent with their gender identity. The justices had 10 times rescheduled their consideration of the appeal in Doe v. Boyertown Area School District (Case No. 18-658) at their private conferences, which could mean nothing or that they were exploring some other resolution of the case. But after one official consideration of it last week, the justices declined the appeal without comment. Four students backed by the Alliance Defending Freedom, the Scottsdale, Ariz.-based legal organization that has been involved in numerous similar cases, were appealing one of the most pro-transgender rulings by a federal appeals court to date. The Boyertown, Pa., school district, adopted its policy allowing transgender students to use facilities consistent with their gender identity beginning in the 2016-17 school year. Four students who felt uncomfortable with the policy challenged it in court on the basis that it violated their privacy rights and U.S. Department of Education regulations under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. The departments regulations, dating to the 1970s, permit schools to separate toilet, locker room, and shower facilities on the basis of sex. However, the statute, which bars discrimination based on sex in educational programs that receive federal funds, has increasingly been interpreted to protect students on the basis of gender identity. In the Boyertown case, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit, in Philadelphia, unanimously rejected the challenge to the school districts pro-transgender policy. The full 3rd Circuit court held a vigorous debate but declined to rehear the case as all members of the court agreed that a preliminary injunction against the districts policy should be denied. The panel softened some of its initial reasoning and held in July that the districts policy was supportable under Title IX and did not create a hostile environment for the objecting students. (The panel backed off on an earlier version of the opinion which had said Title IX required schools to allow transgender students to use facilities consistent with their gender identity.) Informal guidance issued by President Barack Obamas administration in 2016 in support of transgender students, and withdrawn by President Donald Trumps administration in 2017, was not at issue in the Boyertown case (though the guidance did prompt the district to adopt its policy). In the Supreme Court appeal on behalf of the four objecting students , the ADF said the students who object to the districts policy reasonably felt embarrassed by the presence of opposite-sex students in the locker room and restrooms, so much so that one plaintiff student left the school. The ADFs appeal attracted the support of several friend-of-the-court briefs, including one filed by former U.S. Secretary of Education William J. Bennett. The text and legislative history of Title IX make clear that Congress understood and intended sex to refer to an immutable physiological characteristic, not an individuals self-reported sense of self as being a particular gender, said the brief of the former secretary, who served under President Ronald Reagan. Both the Boyertown school district and a group of transgender students who intervened in the case, represented by the American Civil Liberties Union, urged the justices not to take up the case. The school district detailed how it had replaced group showers with individual showers in its locker rooms to add privacy. No preliminary injunction is needed to protect the privacy concerns of the [objecting] students as no student is required to undress in the presence of any other student, and single-user restrooms may be used by any students who prefer to use them, the districts brief said . The ACLUs brief said , A school may reasonably conclude, as a matter of managing school resources and multiple interests, that it would best support the privacy and comfort of all students for boys who are transgender to use the boys facilities and for girls who are transgender to use the girls facilities while making individual private facilities available to all on an equal basis. In a written statement after the high court denied review of the case, John Bursch, the ADFs senior counsel and vice president of appellate advocacy, said, Students struggling with their beliefs about gender need compassionate support, but sound reasons based on common sense have always existed for schools to separate male and female teenagers in showers, restrooms, and locker rooms. Because the 3rd Circuits decision made a mess of bodily privacy and Title IX principles, we believe the Supreme Court should have reviewed it, Bursch added. But we hope the court will take up a similar case in the future to bring much needed clarity to how the lower courts should handle violations of well-established student privacy rights. PONTIAC A priest who has been temporarily removed from the ministry since 2016, and currently resides in Port Austin, has indicated he wants to sue Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. "A lawsuit will be filed by week's end with the finest prosecuting attorney in MI (Michigan) to sue the Catholic axe-grinding same-gender attracted AG Nessel," Lawrence Ventline stated in an email CC'd to the Tribune on Tuesday. Ventline, who resides in the Port Austin area, is currently facing licensing action by Nessel's office. Nessel, on Friday, said Ventline allegedly sexually assaulted a Michigan resident, and is still actively counseling children. The sexual assault investigation was conducted by Oakland County Sheriff's Office. The Tribune contacted the Oakland County Sheriff's Office on Friday for more information on the incident after speaking with Ventline, who continuously said his case was dismissed in Oakland. A sergeant with the sheriff's office told the Tribune that Ventline's case was "still pending further investigation." However, on Tuesday, Oakland County Sheriff's Lt. Dan Toth, told the Tribune that is not the case. "If that's an error on our part, we apologize for that," Toth said, adding the case is closed. "The bottom line with us is we opened up an investigation in 2016," he added. "It was closed in early 2017, and we cannot substantiate the allegation. We can't unsubstantiate it." Toth said he's not aware of any other allegations involving Ventline, and hasn't had any contact with the AG's office. Ventline has been temporarily removed from the ministry since 2016, the Archdiocese of Detroit confirmed on Friday. Prior to that, Ventline had not been assigned to full-time parish ministry for nearly 20 years. While he is restricted from the ministry, Ventline is prohibited from representing himself as a priest. Dan Olsen, a representative from the Michigan AG's office, told the Tribune they are not aware of any possible litigation against the office from Ventline. "I can't comment on anything we haven't received," Olsen said. A copy of the state's administrative complaint suspending Ventline's counseling license is attached to the online version of this story on www.michigansthumb.com. HARTFORD Diane Lewis has spent about $250 a month in phone calls for more than a decade to stay in contact with her 33-year-old incarcerated son. Although her son will be released soon, she said she was speaking for the thousands of mothers behind her when she stood in support of HB 6714 which would make phone calls from state prisons free during a press conference Tuesday. There are mothers who havent talked to their sons in years due to the cost of the calls, Lewis said. I always pay the phone bill first, even if it means paying the cable bill late. The bill was approved 29-19 by the Appropriations Committee Tuesday despite some confusion over what the bill would mean for the state. Rep. Josh Elliott, D-Hamden, who sponsored the free inmate call legislation, is now concerned that Republicans will stall its passage in the House by refusing to set a time limit on the debate. If we were to spend eight or 10 hours on the bill, we wouldnt have time for other bills that need to get done, Elliott said. Some Republicans on the Appropriations Committee spoke against the bill Tuesday - just hours after Lewis and about two dozen others expressed their support for the legislation. The proposed legislation, which would go into effect two years from now, would prohibit the state from making a commission on the calls a factor that is driving up the cost for the families of inmates, supporters of the bill said. The state makes a 68 percent commission on all in-state calls totaling about $7.7 million a year. Securus Technologies, the vendor who manages the states inmate phone system, makes about $5.5 million a year including $2 million that is the states portion of the commission on out of state calls. The Texas-based company claimed in a letter to the state Department of Administrative Services in 2014 that it cant turn over the commission on out-of-state calls due to a Federal Communications Commission ruling. An FCC spokesman said in early May that the agency has never prohibited prison telecommunications companies from providing a commission on out-of-state inmate calls. The company has been keeping about $2 million a year generated by the 68 percent profit since 2014, according to DAS officials. Of the $7.7 million annually the state receives, about $5.5 million goes to the Judicial Branch to pay for probation officers, another $2 million goes to the states Criminal Justice Information System and $350,000 goes to the state Department of Correction for inmate programming. The calls cost $3.50 to $4.87 for 15 minutes. The DOC has the right to cut off the call at any time - but the person paying for the call still incurs the entire fee, said Rep. Robyn Porter, D-New Haven who supports the bill. Securus renegotiated its contract with the state in early March after the company learned about the proposal for free phone calls, said Elliott, who was flanked Tuesday by supporters from several non-profit agencies who deal with individuals who are incarcerated and their families. Elliott told the group gathered at the Legislative Office building that Securus threatened to pull the phone system out as the bill gained traction and is now trying to re-negotiate with the state to make calls more affordable. Connecticut ranks 49th in the country in terms of affordability of inmate phone calls, according to Worth Rises, a New York-based nonprofit that supports inmates and their families. The organization has been heavily involved in the push to make inmate calls free in Connecticut. If the bill becomes law Connecticut would be the first state in the nation to provide free phone service to inmates, supporters said. But many members of the Appropriations Committee, both Democrats and Republicans, seemed confused during a debate about the states portion of the commission and what the bill would do. Some Republicans agreed that the charges were excessive. I think its reprehensible that the state is profiting 68 percent on phone calls for incarcerated individuals, Rep. Mitch Bolinsky, R-Newtown, said. This should not be a revenue stream for the state, Im offended to even look at this, he added. But Bolinsky was under the impression that the proposed law would continue the state commission. Appropriations Committee Co-Chair Toni Walker, D-New Haven, was unclear about where the state commission went. She wanted the issue brought front and center to rectify the problem, she said. But Walker also conceded that the committee hadnt had a chance to review what the company was charging. This conversation has to be continued, Walker said. Plus its important we have a chance to look at the charges this company has been able to levy on the prisoners in our correction system. The proposal has drawn national attention from political commentators such as Van Jones who sent a representative to the press conference. Presidential candidate and Massachusetts U. S. Senator Elizabeth Warren tweeted her support of the bill over the weekend. Lewis pointed out to supporters that she wants to hear from her son in the same way a mother wants to hear from a child who has left for college or who is in the military. We love and worry about our children too, Lewis said. My kid made a mistake, does that make me less of a mother? The bill will now move on to the House calendar - but it is unclear when, or if, it will come up for discussion. The session ends at midnight June 5. HARTFORD With less than two weeks to the end of the legislative session, the state Sentencing Commission is asking Senate leaders to bring two potentially controversial proposals to a vote. SB 1113 would create a new sex offender registry board, which would set the length of time a person could be on the registry based on their risk of reoffending and not just the offenses they committed. The bill would also create two registries, one that is public, which would contain the information on high-risk offenders that the public can see and one that can only be seen by law enforcement, which would contain all offenders that the board deems necessary. The commission made up of judges and department heads dealing with criminal justice issues including the Office of the Victim Advocate and Chief States Attorney is also asking for a vote on SB 948, a bill that would allow defendants to seek a 364-day sentence rather than a one-year sentence, which in some cases would prevent deportation, according to federal immigration laws. We realize that these bills address difficult issues and that you have other competing priorities, Commission Chair Judge Robert Devlin and Commission Executive Director Alex Tsarkkov said in a letter to Senate President Martin Looney, D-New Haven. We ask that you review these two bills and bring them up for a vote this legislative session, the two added. The bills were approved by the Judiciary Committee but have not yet come up for a discussion or a vote in the Senate. The bills would also have to be approved by the House and signed by Gov. Ned Lamont to become law. The sex offender registry bill is based on years of work by the commission and other state officials to determine effective ways of making the registry more equitable based on risk factors rather than offenses, said commission member Robert Farr, a former legislator and a previous head of the Board of Pardons and Paroles. Its harder for people who are on the registry to get employment and its harder to get housing, Farr said after the bill was approved by the Judiciary Committee in March. Studies have shown that people who are homeless are five times more likely to commit a new offense. The board would gather risk assessment information from probation and parole officials and make a decision on the appropriate length of time a person should be on the registry. Offenders who are considered low-risk would be placed on the law enforcement registry, which only law enforcement would be able to see. The bill would create three lengths of time a person would be required to be on either registry 10 years, 20 years, or for life. People are placed on the existing registry for periods of 10 years or for life. Under the current sex offender registry laws there is no mechanism for appeal of a lifetime registration requirement. The proposed law would allow people to appeal to the newly created sex offender registry board. The bill before the Senate has the support of the Connecticut Alliance to End Sexual Violence, according to testimony provided during a public hearing on April 1. The same bill also includes changes to the termination of parental rights for people who are incarcerated and sentence modification reviews. The 364-day sentencing bill would provide protection for immigrants who are charged with misdemeanor crimes. Under federal law, immigrants can be deported if they are sentenced to a crime for a period of one year or longer. The commission is seeking to allow defendants sentenced to one-year in prison for a misdemeanor to apply to the court to have the sentence changed to 364 days. The move would allow people convicted of misdemeanors to avoid deportation under federal laws. This legislation is important given the serious immigration consequences the current penalty carries under federal immigration law, Devlin and Tsarkov said in the letter. The sex offender registry bill has been on the Senate calendar since May 14. The 364-day sentence bill has been on the Senate calendar since April 8. May 27 A 64-year-old Victory Court man was charged with disorderly conduct. He was given a court date of May 28. A 62-year-old Lexington Avenue man was charged with disorderly conduct. He was given a court date of May 28. A 42-year-old Victory Court man was charged with disorderly conduct. He was given a court date of May 28. May 26 A 19-year-old Melbourne Road woman was charged with driving under the influence while underage and failure to drive in the proper lane. She was held on $250 bond and given a court date of June 5. A 33-year-old Westport Avenue man was charged with driving under the influence, illegal operation of a vehicle without the ignition device, driving under suspension, failure to keep right, failure to carry registration and second-degree failure to appear. He was held on $20,000 bond and given a court date of June 5. A 30-year-old Lexington Avenue man was charged with second-dgree assault and second-degree breach of peace. He was held on $5,000 bond and given a court date of June 5. A 52-year-old Woodward Avenue man was charged with driving under the influence, evading responsibility and failure to drive in the proper lane. He was held on $7,500 bond and given a court date of June 5. A 21-year-old Main Street woman was charged with second-degree breach of peace. She was given a court date of June 5. A 43-year-old New York woman was charged with sixth-degree larceny. She was given a court date of June 5. A 20-year-old Glenwood Avenue woman was charged with second-degree breach of peace. She was given a court date of June 6. A 19-year-old Monterey Court woman was charged with third-degree assault. She was held on $1,000 bond and given a court date of June 5. A 48-year-old Cutrone Road man was charged with third-degree assault and second-degree breach of peace. He was held on $2,500 bond and given a court date of June 5. A 25-year-old West Avenue man was charged with disorderly conduct. He was given a court date of May 28. May 25 A 40-year-old Bridgeport man was charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to sell a narcotic, possession of a controlled substance within 1,500 feet of a school, possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell within 1,500 feet of a school and use of drug paraphernalia. He was held on $105,000 bond and given a court date of June 4. An 18-year-old Osborne Avenue man was charged with first-degree sexual assault and risk of injury to a child. He was held on $750,000 bond and given a court date of June 4. A 33-year-old Ponus Avenue woman was charged with driving under the influence, operating a commercial vehicle without a license and failure to drive in the proper lane. She was held on $500 bond and given a court date of June 4. A 37-year-old Fourth Street man was charged with driving under the influence and following too closely. He was held on $500 bond and given a court date of June 7. A 31-year-old Danbury man was charged with driving under the influence. He was held on $200 bond and given a court date of June 4. A 46-year-old New York man was charged with violation of a protective order. He was held on $5,000 bond and given a court date of May 28. A 37-year-old Broad Street woman was charged with sixth-degree larceny. She was held on $400 bond and given a court date of June 4. A 41-year-old Fair Street man was charged with third-degree criminal mischief and second-degree breach of peace. He was held on $5,000 bond and given a court date of May 28. A 41-year-old West Norwalk Road woman was charged with disorderly conduct. She was given a court date of May 28. NEW BRITAIN The Joy of Art! program at Hospital for Special Care (HSC) is hosting its 16th Annual Juried Art Show with an opening reception on June 27. Those interested may submit up to two original pieces for the exhibition, which will run until late October. Submissions will be taken on Friday, June 21, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., and June 24, 1-6 p.m. at the Hospital for Special Care Aquatic entrance at 2150 Corbin Ave. All works must be hand-delivered with the proper completed forms, which can be found at http://hfsc.org/patients-families/joy-of-art. There is an entry fee of $30 for one submission and $45 for two, which can be paid by cash or check. The size for the piece is limited to 42 inches including a frame, in any direction. All works must be wired for hanging. The Joy of Art! program was created to support HSCs mission of helping patients achieve enduring improvements in all aspects of their lives. The objectives of the program are to enhance the quality of patients lives by providing a diverse selection of art for their enjoyment, to strengthen the bond between HSC and the community and to foster relationships with talented artists. Multiple prizes will be awarded, as well as Honorable Mentions awarded at the discretion of the Juror, Maura OShea. Maura OShea is an artist, educator and arts entrepreneur. Ms. O'Shea has worked in museums and arts organizations in for more than 25 years and has exhibited her work in California, Connecticut and New York. She holds a BFA in painting from the University of Connecticut and is currently the Manager of Education Programs at the New Britain Museum of American Art and the owner/founder of The Art Truck in Glastonbury where she lives with her husband and dog, who is the subject of her current work. The Joy of Art! program offers multiple in-house art exhibitions affording patients, family members, visitors, staff, and members of the community the opportunity to enjoy beautiful artwork gracing the walls of the hospital, and fundraising through commission proceeds of sold exhibition artwork. HSC appreciates the value of art in the healing process. Creative Expressions, a form of art therapy, fosters patients interests with cultivation of the arts in mind. Its mission reflects the importance of this complement in combination with traditional therapies in recovery and an improved quality of life for patients. Creative Expressions affords patients the opportunity to expand their creativity in the areas of painting, sculpture, art history, drawing and photography. Contact Hollie Randall at 860.827.4758 or RoseAnne Horn at 860.612.6344 with any questions. Larson is guest speaker for chamber breakfast MIDDLETOWN U.S. Congressman John B. Larson will serve as guest speaker at the Chambers May Member Breakfast Meeting May 29. The Member Breakfast Meeting, sponsored by Ion Bank and the Real Estate Finance Association of Connecticut, will be held at the Red Lion Hotel Cromwell, 100 Berlin Road, Cromwell, with networking beginning at 7 a.m., Breakfast Buffet opens at 7:15 a.m., and the Meeting Program, 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. Cost is $22 for Chamber Members and $32 for non-members. Advance registration is required at www.middlesexchamber.com. The Governor William A. ONeill Public Service Award will be presented to former Sen. Paul R. Doyle . The Governor William A. ONeill Public Service Award, presented since 2002, is awarded to an individual who has performed outstanding public service for Middlesex County and the State of Connecticut. The award is named after Governor ONeill because he dedicated himself to public service during his tenure as a state legislator, Lieutenant Governor and Governor. Literacy awards to be presented CLINTON Literacy Volunteers Valley Shore celebrates teaching English literacy to residents in the shoreline community with its annual awards and international potluck supper Wednesday night, 6-8 p.m. St. Mary's Church of the Visitation in Clinton. The event celebrates the mission of teaching residents in theshoreline service area to read, write, and speak English to improve their work and life skills in their communities. All tutoring is one on one and completely free to the student. Seeing the pride students take in their work and the camaraderie among students/families, their tutors and volunteers makes this the signature event of LVVS' Year. Students submitted an essay answering the following question: How has being an LVVS student helped my life? Awards will be made recognizing students demonstrating improved English language skills or achieving key life events due to becoming more proficient with English. Students and their families attend this event with their tutor and share a dish that represents the country where they had lived. The community is welcome, but must pre-register at info@lvvs.org. LVVS is a non-profit organization incorporated since 1980. LVVS is made up of board members, tutors, and volunteers from an 11-town service area: Chester, Clinton, Deep River, Essex, Guilford, Killingworth, Lyme, Madison, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook. Charter Oak Brass Band to perform MIDDLETOWN Holy Trinity Church, 381 Main St, Middletown, presents a concert with the Charter Oak Brass Band, May 31, 7 p.m. The concert is the culmination of the Charter Oak Brass Bands 30th anniversary season. Under the baton of Dr. Daniel DAddio, works performed will span three centuries, and treat the audience to pieces familiar and new. The newest piece, Movers and Shakers March was commissioned by Charter Oak Brass Band to commemorate the bands first thirty years. Its composer, David Maker, was the founder of the band in 1988. We know youll enjoy hearing this exciting new work, along with the rest of the evening as the Charter Oak Brass Band weaves through the centuries from Brahms to the sounds of Stan Kenton and beyond. All are welcome to attend. How to Absorb the Marine Corps into the Army and Navy For decades, the U.S. Marine Corps has attempted to tweak its force structure to enhance performance within a constrained... After talking to "the catapult people" about the Navy's new state-of-the-art system that launches aircraft from carriers, the president said he's ordering a return to steam systems on all new flattops. President Donald Trump is no fan of the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System, known as EMALS, that was installed on the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford. Now, he says he'll mandate that future aircraft carriers return to the legacy system for launching aircraft. "I'm just going to put out an order -- we're going to use steam," he told sailors and Marines aboard the amphibious assault ship Wasp on Monday during his recent trip to Japan. "We don't need that extra speed." The Navy began launching and recovering aircraft aboard its newest Ford-class carrier using the EMALS technology almost two years ago. The system is designed to put less stress on aircraft by using electromagnetic catapults. It's also meant to be more reliable and accurate, while requiring less maintenance than the older steam-based system, according to a Navy news release announcing its initial launches. But steam, Trump said, has worked "perfectly" for 65 years. No one knows how the newer technology will hold up in combat, he said. "I can imagine, in the case of battle, it must be very delicate, OK?" Trump said. This isn't the first time Trump has made public comments about his distaste for EMALS. After a visit to the Ford, Trump told Time magazine in 2017 that sailors aboard told him the new system was "not good." He promised a return to "goddamned steam" during that interview. Now, he appears to be honoring that promise. "We want to go with steam," he told the troops on the Wasp. "They're always coming up with new ideas. They're making planes so complex you can't fly them. ... We all want innovation, but it's too much. "There's never been anything like the steam catapults," Trump added. San Diego-based aeronautical systems company General Atomics was awarded a $737 million contract in 2015 to deliver an advanced arresting gear and EMALS for the second Ford-class carrier, the John F. Kennedy. In 2017, the same company got a $532 million contract for another EMALS to be used on the carrier Enterprise, the Navy's third Ford-class flattop. "I won't tell you this because it's before my time by a little bit, but they have a $900 million cost overrun on this crazy electric catapult," Trump said. "And I said, 'What was wrong with steam?'" The president took an impromptu vote on the two systems during his speech on the Wasp, asking the service members to cheer for the one they prefer. When he called for cheers for steam, it got a noticeably louder response than the EMALS. When that system got one cheer from someone in the crowd, Trump joked that "he works for the enemy." Delivery of the first EMALS was delayed by a year when testers found problems launching heavy aircraft. -- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins. The U.S. Navy has deactivated its stealth fighter squadron at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. The service announced last week that F-35C Joint Strike Fighters belonging to the "Grim Reapers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 101 had left Eglin, which had served as a Lightning II training hub since 2012, according to a news release. The Navy in December said plans were in the works to move its F-35C operations to Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, concentrating its Joint Strike Fighter operations out west. "The contributions that VFA-101 has made to the F-35C community will not diminish as this program grows," said Cmdr. Adan Covarrubias, head of VFA-101. "The original cadre of maintainers and pilots have left a legacy that is evidenced in all aspects of this community. Their influence will continue long after the squadron's doors are closed." Related content: The Grim Reapers have trained "more than 75 Navy and Marine Corps F-35C pilots, accepted more than 30 aircraft, trained more than 1,200 F-35C maintainers and flown nearly 11,000 flight hours," according to the release. The squadron traces its roots back to World War II. Originally known as VF-10 and stationed at NAS San Diego, it flew F4F Wildcats off the aircraft carrier Enterprise (CV-6) in the Pacific during WWII; it was deactivated in 1945. The squadron was resurrected in 1952 as VFA-101 before being deactivated again. VFA-101 was brought back once again at Eglin on the unit's 60th anniversary in 2012. Lemoore is already home to Strike Fighter Squadron 147, as well as Strike Fighter Squadron 125, a replacement squadron. The units train carrier-based F-35 pilots. VFA-147's first deployment is scheduled aboard the carrier Carl Vinson in 2021. Some of VFA-101's F-35C pilots will transfer to VFA-125, VFA-147 and the Joint Strike Fighter Wing at Lemoore; others will go to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 9 (VX-9) at Edwards Air Force Base, California, officials said. More than 50 percent of maintainers from the Grim Reapers will also remain in the F-35C community at either Lemoore or Edwards, officials said. "Several facilities [at Lemoore] were built or remodeled to facilitate specific F-35C requirements with regard to maintenance and training, including a Pilot Fit Facility, Centralized Engine Repair Facility, Pilot Training Center, and a newly remodeled hangar, the release states. "Future projects are planned as additional Navy squadrons transition into the F-35C. Marine Corps F-35C squadrons will be based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar" in California. Joint operations between the Navy and the other services at Eglin will be maintained, officials said. VFA-101's deactivation will not alter "the U.S. Navy Enlisted Maintenance training that is conducted at the Academic Training Center (ATC) ... [nor] the Navy's support of Test & Evaluation joint development with the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Marine Corps and the partners at Eglin Air Force Base," according to the release. The Navy is gearing up for its first F-35C carrier deployment; however, only two percent of F-35Cs were able to achieve full mission capability between May and November 2018, according to a recent report from the Government Accountability Office. Nevertheless, top Navy officials in February signed off on the aircraft's initial operating capability status, declaring it combat ready. The Marine Corps has deployed its B variant to the Pacific and the Middle East on Navy ships. An F-35B detachment assigned to the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, which operated from aboard the amphibious assault ship Essex, returned home in February. It was the first time the Marine Corps' variant of the stealth jet, which can take off and land vertically, had deployed to the Middle East. The amphibious assault ship Wasp is currently in the Pacific with at least 10 F-35Bs on board. -- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Oriana0214. This article by Jared Keller originally appeared on Task & Purpose, a digital news and culture publication dedicated to military and veterans issues. After more than a decade of research and development and upwards of $500 million in funding, the Navy finally plans on testing its much-hyped electromagnetic railgun on a surface warship in a major milestone for the beleaguered weapons system, Navy documents reveal. The Navy's latest Northwest Training and Testing draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Assessment (NWTT EIS/OEIS), first detailed by the Seattle Times on Friday, reveals that " the kinetic energy weapon (commonly referred to as the rail gun) will be tested aboard surface vessels, firing explosive and non-explosive projectiles at air- or sea-based targets." "The system charges for two minutes and fires in less than one second," the 1,800-page assessment states. "The system is shielded so as not to affect shipboard controls and systems. The amount of electromagnetic energy released from this system is low and contained on the surface vessel." It's unclear at this time exactly which vessel will play host to the new weapons system. Back in 2015, Naval Sea Systems Command had announced plans to test the railgun aboard the Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport USNS Trenton (a substitute for the USNS Millinocket) off the coast of Florida in 2016, but that test was subsequently delayed. The Navy has spent years test-firing the railgun at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division in Virginia, but conducting a tactical demonstration of the weapon from an actual surface vessel would constitute a significant advance for the beleaguered system. Generating the railgun's electromagnetic fields requires a capacitor base that only "electric warships" like the USS Zumwalt can currently generate, as Task & Purpose previously reported in December 2017, while other surface vessels would require a major overhaul to incorporate the "pulsed-power architecture" capable of loosing off multi-shot salvos. While the Navy NWTT EIS/OEIS appears to indicate that service may have cracked the code for power generation, the success of the railgun is also contingent on the development of a universal "common mount" for equipping surface vessels with a tactical version of the ONR prototype. And as Task & Purpose also previously reported, that mount isn't just a technical challenge, but a political one: a 2016 House Armed Services Committee report noted that lawmakers were increasingly worried that changing Pentagon priorities would end up nuking funding for a mount and resigning the system to an R&D limbo of sorts. In recent years, the Pentagon's Strategic Capabilities Office was shifting its energy focus towards the hypervelocity projectiles (HVP) that were originally developed as the specialized ammunition for the railgun. SCO quickly realized the HVP was just as effective when fired from conventional artillery, and the Navy test fired the HVP from the USS Dewey's Mk 45 five-inch deck guns during the 2018 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) in August 2018. Those changing priorities appeared set in stone as recently as February 2019, when Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson declared the railgun "[a] case study that would say, 'This is how innovation maybe shouldn't happen.'" "We've learned a lot [from the project] and the engineering of building something like that that can handle that much electromagnetic energy and not just explode is challenging," Richardson told an audience assembled at the Atlantic Council at the time. "We're going to continue after this we're going to install this thing, we're going to continue to develop it, test it ... It's too great a weapon system, so it's going somewhere, hopefully." Even with a shipboard demonstrator, however, it's unlikely the railgun will see action as an armor-liquefying superweapon. A June 2017 Congressional Research Service report indicated that while the Navy "originally began developing [railgun] as a naval surface fire support (NSFS) weapon for supporting U.S. Marines operating ashore," the branch subsequently determined that the weapon "also has potential" for defending surface vessels from incoming missiles. Still, the arrival of a shipboard tactical demonstrator can't get here soon enough. In December 2018, photos surfaced of the Chinese navy Type 072III-class landing ship Haiyang Shan conducting sea trials with a railgun housing mounted on its bow less than a year after it was first spotted with the supergun while docked at a shipyard, well ahead of the U.S. intelligence assessment's estimated Chinese fielding date of 2025. With tensions between the United States and China at an unusual high amid increasing freedom-of-navigation operations in the South China Sea, the Navy may end up needling all the firepower it can get or at least the perception that it's actually holding its own in the new directed energy arms race. More articles from Task & Purpose: North Korea dubs Trump adviser John Bolton a 'war maniac' The Pentagon is using the Vietnam playbook for dealing with Iran West Point graduated the most diverse class in its history On July 4, 1776, the 13 colonies claimed their independence from England, an event which eventually led to the formation of the United States. Each year on the fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, Americans celebrate this historic event. Conflict between the colonies and England was already a year old when the colonies convened a Continental Congress in Philadelphia in the summer of 1776. In a June 7 session in the Pennsylvania State House (later Independence Hall), Richard Henry Lee of Virginia presented a resolution with the famous words: "Resolved: That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved." Related: Fourth of July 2021 Military Discounts Lee's words were the impetus for the drafting of a formal Declaration of Independence, although the resolution was not followed up on immediately. On June 11, consideration of the resolution was postponed by a vote of seven colonies to five, with New York abstaining. However, a Committee of Five was appointed to draft a statement presenting to the world the colonies' case for independence. Members of the Committee included John Adams of Massachusetts; Roger Sherman of Connecticut; Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania; Robert R. Livingston of New York; and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia. The task of drafting the actual document fell on Jefferson. On July 1, 1776, the Continental Congress reconvened, and on the following day, the Lee Resolution for independence was adopted by 12 of the 13 colonies, New York not voting. Why do we celebrate the Fourth of July? Discussions of Jefferson's Declaration of Independence resulted in some minor changes, but the spirit of the document was unchanged. The process of revision continued through all of July 3 and into the late afternoon of July 4, when the Declaration was officially adopted. Of the 13 colonies, nine voted in favor of the Declaration, two -- Pennsylvania and South Carolina -- voted No, Delaware was undecided and New York abstained. John Hancock, President of the Continental Congress, signed the Declaration of Independence. It is said that John Hancock's signed his name "with a great flourish" so England's "King George can read that without spectacles!" Today, the original copy of the Declaration is housed in the National Archives in Washington, D.C., and July 4 has been designated a national holiday to commemorate the day the United States laid down its claim to be a free and independent nation. Want to Know More About the Military? Be sure to get the latest news about the military, as well as critical info about how to join and all the benefits of service. Become a Military.com member for free and receive customized updates delivered straight to your inbox. LANSING, MI Attorney General Dana Nessel has voluntarily disclosed her 2017 and 2018 federal tax returns, which show she and her wife reported a combined total income of $133,034 in 2017 and $75,943 in 2018. Nessel provided the information in response to MLive Media Groups request to share basic financial information via a voluntary disclosure form sent to Michigans three top statewide elected officials and each member of the Michigan House and Senate. The attorney general and her wife, Alanna Maguire, filed jointly both years and claimed their two children as dependents. In 2017, they had a combined total income of $133,034 and an adjusted gross income of $85,640. In 2018, their combined total income was $75,943. Before becoming attorney general in 2019, Nessel was a partner in Nessel and Kessel Law Firm in Detroit. She was one of the attorneys to work on the DeBoer v. Snyder case, which went to the U.S. Supreme Court. The case was combined with two others and led to the landmark ruling allowing gay marriage in the United States. Nessel was awarded more than $407,000 by the state for attorney fees for her work on the case. Nessel provided the 2017 and 2018 tax returns instead of filling out the voluntary disclosure reform created by MLive. She noted in a statement she strongly supports the initiative to increase transparency from elected officials. Michigan ranks as one of the worst states in the nation when it comes to transparency and I commend MLive for pursuing this information, she said in a statement. Past Michigan attorneys general also disclosed their tax returns while in office. Former Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette released part of his 2016 tax returns in 2017 as part of a push for greater government transparency, and former Attorney General Mike Cox posted his 2009 tax returns and financial disclosure information publicly. Michigan is one of two states and the only one with a full-time legislature with no requirement for public officials to disclose basic financial information, including income sources, business investments, gifts and travel compensation. MLive asked Nessel, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and all 148 state legislators to fill out a financial disclosure form similar to those required of lawmakers in 48 other states. MLives form did not ask for income amounts, but did request income sources, assets, large gifts received, other positions held, liabilities and agreements. Only three people completed the form: Benson, Sen. Adam Hollier, D-Detroit, and Erika Geiss, D-Taylor. Whitmer pointed MLive to her tax returns and personal financial disclosure form she has on the states website. An 80-year-old man was killed in a ATV crash Saturday night, May 27 in Michigans Upper Peninsula. WLUC-TV reports that the man was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, which occurred in Wells Township on County Road 426 near County Road CN. WNMU-FM reports that lifesaving measures were performed by officials at the scene. Troopers with the Michigan State Police Negaunee Post told the NBC-TV outlet that alcohol and speed are believed to have played a factor, but that the crash remains under investigation. MSP troopers were reportedly assisted at the scene by Forsyth Township Police, EMS and Fire, and the Wells Township EMS and fire departments. Legislation introduced in the Michigan House last week would ban abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected. House Bill 4664, sponsored by Republican Rep. Steve Johnson of Wayland, would make it a felony for doctors to perform abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, which can typically be found around six weeks of pregnancy. Punishment for performing one after that point would be a felony with 2-4 years imprisonment, and 6-15 years if the abortion procedure caused the pregnant persons death. The person getting the abortion would not be charged. A heartbeat is a universal indicator of life, Johnson said in a statement. Its time we be a voice for the voiceless, and uphold our constitutional duty to protect and defend the sanctity of human life. The language mirrors a proposal from the Michigan Heartbeat Coalition, a group that submitted paperwork with the Secretary of States office Tuesday to kick off a ballot petition drive last week. The groups president Corey Shankleton said at the time the petition is designed to be the arrow in the heart of Roe v. Wade, the U.S. Supreme Court decision that allows abortions to be performed in the United States. Johnsons legislation was referred to the House Families, Children and Seniors Committee. To pass, the bill would have to clear the House and Senate and be signed by Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Whitmer has already vowed to fight the heartbeat ballot drive and other anti-abortion efforts. Michigan is a state that wants access for women to healthcare. This is a procedure that is safe, that has saved womens lives and protected our reproductivity, Whitmer told reporters last week after an event promoting equal pay for women. And for government and a bunch of men in government, frankly, to get between a woman and her provider is downright dangerous, especially when most of them cant even spell endometriosis, much less tell you what it means," she continued. The heartbeat effort is separate from a proposal to ban dilation and evacuation, or D&E, abortions in the state. Republicans in the House and Senate each passed their own versions of legislation to define the procedure as dismemberment abortion" and make it a felony. Right to Life of Michigan filed paperwork to start a statewide ballot petition drive to ban the D&E procedure as a means of bypassing the governors expected veto. If they met the required signature threshold under the legislative initiative process, Whitmer would not have to sign the measure. Instead, the measure would become law immediately if approved by both chambers of the legislature. Now that lawmakers have reached a deal on auto insurance, its time for them to get cracking on a road funding solution, Michigan business and local government leaders said Tuesday. During a Tuesday morning press conference, Michigan Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Rich Studley, Michigan Municipal League CEO and Executive Director Dan Gilmartin and others said lawmakers and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer should come to consensus on meaningful funding for the states infrastructure needs before the end of the fiscal year. Weve got a window of opportunity in this non-election year, Studley said, later adding, This a Michigan problem that needs a Michigan solution now. Theres no pot of gold at the end of the federal rainbow. The American Society of Civil Engineers Michigan Section last year gave Michigan an overall D+ grade for its infrastructure system, and a D- grade for roads. Many experts have said Michigan needs at least $2.5 billion a year to adequately address the states infrastructure needs. Whitmer made creating new funding for fixing roads, bridges and other infrastructure a top priority of her budget plan earlier this year, calling for a fuel tax increase of 45 cents per gallon by Oct. 1, 2020 in three, 15-cent increments. The move would come after the 2015 road plan passed by lawmakers, which is expected to generate $1.2 billion by 2021. But it would also alter that plan, taking $500 million of it slated to come from the general fund this year and sending that to the higher education budget instead. So far, Republicans in the legislature have been cool to the 45-cent suggestion, with House Speaker Lee Chatfield, R-Levering, saying it was a nonstarter in the House. Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, R-Clark Lake, has said hed prefer keeping road funding separate from the budget process, and the Senate last week passed a budget that accelerates the 2015 road funding plan passed by the legislature but does not incorporate Whitmers gas tax recommendation. Studley said the Michigan Chamber is open to road funding policy discussions happening as part of or concurrent to ongoing budget negotiations. But he was critical of the idea held by some members of the legislature that trimming government spending is enough to fix Michigans infrastructure issues. Theres only so much you can do with efficiency and effectiveness," he said. "Well continue to challenge the members of the unicorn caucus - the people who believe that theres a magic solution to this problem that no ones ever seen before - to explain how they would pay to solve this problem. Driving on poorly maintained roads costs Michigan motorists an average of $648 a year in the additional vehicle operating costs, according to a recent study from TRIP, a national nonprofit that analyzes transportation issues. A recent citizen survey of 3,200 Michigan residents conducted in April by the Center for Michigan found more than 75 percent of respondents believe the state should spend an additional $1 billion or more each year to fix the roads, and that a slim majority are willing to pay at least $100 more a year to fund road repairs. Fixing the roads has long been a top priority of Michigan residents, and waiting any longer to find a long-term solution will only make the problem worse, said Lance Binoniemi, vice president of government affairs for the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association. Gilmartin said Michigan communities are suffering due to ongoing infrastructure issues: Theres really a cost for doing nothing that can no longer happen in this state, he said. Tuesdays press conference came ahead of the Mackinac Policy Conference, an annual event hosted by the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce that draws lawmakers, business officials and others in the public policy arena. Michigan follows the pack when it comes to its most searched dog breed, according to a new study. The study conducted by Joybird used search data from the Google Trends to determine the most-popular dog breed in each state. Only breeds that were in the top 50 according to the American Kennel Club were eligible. Based on the data, the rottweiler is the most popular dog breed in Michigan. Its also the most popular breed nationwide, with six other states listing it as their favorite including Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wyoming. The Golden Retriever and Shih Tzu each led the way in four states, but the latter had an overall lower search volume. Elsewhere, California and Texas prefer the French Bulldog, while people in Nebraska and Oregon love the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Hounds are a popular breed across the country, with the Bloodhound being the most popular breed in Alaska, Idaho, and Kentucky and the Basset Hound in Arkansas and Oklahoma. The Bernese Mountain Dog took the top spot in Vermont and Mississippi residents listed the cheeky Dachshund as their favorite breed. Shih Tzus are the top canine in Alabama, Arizona, New Mexico, and North Carolina. You can see the entire breakdown here. ANN ARBOR, MI - A State Board of Education member named in a lawsuit alleging the state has denied Detroit Public Schools access to literacy believes students in the district have been robbed of a right that should be guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. Board Vice President Pamela Pugh indicated Tuesday, May 28, she has notified the Michigan Attorney Generals office she did not support the legal position that the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals dismiss the lawsuits appeal on mootness of grounds. Pugh said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and other state education officials should separate themselves from former Attorney General Bill Schuettes arguments in the lawsuit, urging them to take responsibility for children of color being granted the equal right to critical learning conditions. This is especially true for Detroit Public Schools where special compensation is needed due to state control of the district for almost 20 years, Pugh said. In my opinion this robbed Detroit children of the basic right to literacy, a fundamental right which I believe should be determined to be guaranteed by the U. S. Constitution, as well as other constitutional rights which require literacy skills. In June 2018, Judge Stephen Murphy, of the U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan in Detroit, dismissed the class action lawsuit filed on behalf of seven students. The students filed an appeal the following month. Because Whitmer is now governor of Michigan, her name was added to the lawsuit earlier this month as the state has sought continuances of its briefing date. Whitmer and all other defendants, except Michigan State Board of Education Members Tom McMillin and Nikki Snyder, did not take a position on the substance of the district courts previous decision. McMillin and Snyder argued there is no constitutional right of access to literacy. Pugh said she had not previously communicated a position regarding the lawsuit, noting she is exploring the options available to her through the Office of the Attorney General Dana Nessel, who could not be reached for comment Tuesday. The lawsuit has caused her to reflect on her beliefs, values and reasons for running for the State Board of Education, said Pugh, who was elected to the Board in 2014. Citing the work of former black activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Pugh said past practices by government officials and policymakers in Michigan who were unwilling to address inequities within the Detroit school system are ultimately responsible for the districts failings. While our children and educators are being labeled as failures, Michigans K-12 public education has been built on a crumbling foundation of racism and historic segregationist practices; many of which were sanctioned by our very own state government, Pugh said. In his ruling last July, Murphy said the alleged conditions of Detroit schools are nothing short of devastating, and he acknowledged the incalculable importance of literacy in his opinion on the lawsuit. However, literacy is not a fundamental right, he said, so there was no grounds for the lawsuit that said state officials with authority over Detroit schools had violated students rights. On Friday, Whitmers Spokesperson Tiffany Brown said the Governors Office signed on to the first part of the lawsuit only, which argues that the State of Michigan is no longer a party to the lawsuit due to changed circumstances and the fact that local control has been restored. The Detroit Financial Review Commission maintains oversight of the Detroit Public Schools Community District, which was created as a condition of a $617 million bailout of the citys public school district approved in 2016. Detroit Public Schools has been under some form of state intervention since 1999. ALLEGAN COUNTY, MI Theodore Glenn Williams, held in a psychiatric hospital after raping and killing two girls in the late 1960s, has asked a federal judge for his release, arguing he is wrongly detained under a defunct statute. It is the latest of numerous legal fights Williams has waged in a quest for freedom to live out his remaining years in a small home in the Upper Peninsula he bought while locked up. While the chance of release might be slight, Edith Sammi Siordia, whose 7-year-old daughter was killed, said the legal challenges never seem to go away. They just add to her nightmare. How can they rehabilitate a two-time murderer? Williams is in the Center for Forensic Psychiatry in Saline after he was declared a criminal-sexual psychopath. His case is like no other. He is believed to be the only one still held under the law that was repealed about a year after the victims buried bodies were discovered in 1967 in Allegan and Newaygo counties. Williams contends he should be released because he has recovered from his psychiatric condition. Under the law, he can petition for a hearing in Allegan County Circuit Court, but his previous efforts have been unsuccessful. In a recent filing in federal court, Williams asked that a judge order me discharged from custody and to award me money for all of the years I have been locked up. U.S. District Judge Matthew Leitman in Detroit ordered the case transferred to the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals to determine if he should review Williams case after earlier federal claims were denied. Williams, 80, raped and killed Sonya Santa Cruz, 7, of Grand Rapids, in September 1967, after kidnapping her while she walked home from Stocking Elementary School. A house painter, Williams inadvertently buried his estimate book with the girls body, found by horseback riders three weeks later near Wayland. At the close of an interview by then-state police Detective Robert Golm, he was asked if he could clear up any other crimes. Yeah, I got the girl from Sparta, he told Golm. Williams said he killed Laura Jo Sutliffe, 13, of Sparta, in June 1966. She was kidnapped from her front yard after Williams stopped to ask directions. He led police to her body in Newaygo County. Williams pleaded guilty in Allegan County Circuit Court to first-degree murder in Sonyas death. Before he was sentenced, however, he was designated a criminal-sexual psychopath and sent to a psychiatric hospital. The law was repealed in 1968. Five years later, Williams left hospital confinement with 1,200 others held under the defunct law. The charges in Laura Jos death had been quietly dismissed in Newaygo County. Detective Golm heard about Williams release three months later. He was outraged and sought out Allegan County prosecutors. This time, Williams pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. He was again sentenced to life in prison but with the possibility of parole. Six years later, the state Supreme Court tossed that conviction. The high court ordered Williams committed to the state psychiatric hospital based on the law in effect at the time of the killings. A federal appellate panel ruled that Williams "shall be discharged only after there are reasonable grounds to believe that such person has recovered from such psychopathy to a degree that he will not be a menace to others. Now-retired Allegan County Circuit Judge George Corsiglia presided at multiple hearings over the years as Williams sought to show he no longer posed a danger. The judge rejected every request. Williams tried again once Corsiglia retired but withdrew his request after then-Judge Kevin Cronin refused to provide a court-appointed attorney because Williams owned property in the Upper Peninsula that could be sold to cover attorney costs. Williams, who insists he has recovered after decades of treatment, said in court records: "Defendant can never get a fair and impartial hearing in the Allegan County Circuit Court with all the publicity that has taken place. Williams once told MLive/The Grand Rapids Press in a telephone interview from the psychiatric hospital he thinks about the victims every day. The two little girls, you know, they never hurt anybody. Id do anything in the world if I could bring them back. Its a terrible case, no two ways about it. His attorneys have said over the years that treatment has been successful. Prosecutors have fought his release. In his most-recent filing, Williams says the state Supreme Court violated the repealed criminal-sexual psychopath law when it ruled he was illegally discharged from the state Department of Mental Health and Kalamazoo State Hospital decades ago. He also says he was not advised of his constitutional right to remain silent after he was arrested a second time in the killings. In a hand-written statement, Williams said the government and courts have violated the repealed law holding him in a secure facility. He said that he is now being warehous(ed) after earning furloughs in the 1990s. The Michigan Supreme Court ruled that I was illegally discharged from the Department of Mental Health and Kalamazoo State Hospital. When I was arrested the second time, nobody gave me or read the Miranda Act to me. Even though I was given my rights the first time around. The fact that I had been discharged from custody meant I was a free man. In an unsuccessful federal lawsuit filed in 2016, Williams says he is caught between state mental-health authorities, who say he can only be released by the Allegan County court, and what he calls a biased court. The Allegan County Circuit Court issued a ruling that stated the plaintiff MUST sell his house and property in order to get a court-appointed attorney. If the plaintiff were to sell his house and property in order to get a court-appointed attorney and that attorney is able to win his release, the plaintiff would then be homeless and left with no proper place to live. He bought the property with the $20,000 in Social Security benefits he received in 1991. The payments ended when the victims' families protested. U.S. District Judge Nancy Edmund dismissed his complaint as frivolous. She said the claims had already been addressed or should have been raised earlier. A decision from the federal court of appeals is pending on Williams case. JENISON, MI For some, Memorial Day is about attending patriotic parades and firing up the grill in celebration of a day off from work. But for the many who have been directly impacted by military service, the day is an opportunity to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our country. Georgetown Township resident Jim Frieswyk, 76, is one of the latter. He was among hundreds of people who attended the Jenison Memorial Day parade on Monday, May 27, which marched down Baldwin Street from 20th Avenue to Cottonwood Drive. Frieswyk, who attended the parade with his family, said he aims to pass on to his grandchildren the importance of commemorating those who lost their lives in service. We get wrapped up in the parades and the kids and the candy, when we should be telling our grandkids what the day really is about, Frieswyk said. Its a day of remembrance. We are acknowledging that the people who did serve, and didnt come back, died for our country and for our freedoms." Frieswyk served in the Army Reserves from 1966-72. Though he never went overseas, he said he knew many who left and never came back. The day is important for all generations to acknowledge the sacrifices that were made in order to obtain American freedom, he said. We cant just take freedom for granted, he said. Its special. Zeeland resident Jane Turner, 72, also aims to pass onto her grandchildren the sacrifices made by veterans. She attended the parade with her granddaughters, Vivian and Franny, and her husband joined military veterans who marched in the parade. Vivian, 8, of Jenison said she was excited to watch her grandpa. Turner said she is thankful for her husbands service, and moreover is thankful that it did not cost him his life. Were proud of him, that he fought to keep us free, Turner said of her husband, a Vietnam war veteran. Thankfully it did not cost him his life, but he was willing to fight and hes very patriotic. Following the parade, there was a cemetery ceremony at the Georgetown Township Cemetery. The ceremony is a solemn tradition that has been in place for more than 50 years, and one that some families have been attending for more than three generations. The ceremony featured the posting of the colors by Boy Scout Troop #354, music by the Jenison High School Marching Band, and a speech by Georgetown Township Supervisor Jim Wierenga. Wierenga said the annual event is important for the community to remember its roots and appreciate local veterans who lost their lives. I get a lump in my throat at services like this, he said. Its a solemn and meaningful occasion. I think the community really loves to cherish the values that are historically American. We cherish the history of America, and the community loves to come celebrate it. HOLLAND, MI Weve all heard the notion that spending time outdoors can help us feel better. Now, Ottawa County residents who are looking for a more nontraditional cure to their ailments can get a doctors prescription for regular visits to the park. Holland area doctors are teaming up with Parks Rx America, a national program that physicians can use to get their patients outdoors more often and create healthier habits. The system lists area parks and each ones amenities so that patients can find the perfect park for them. Doctors prescribe patients to a particular park based on their lifestyle and physical abilities. Though the program is nationally used and recognized, a Holland doctor was the spark behind bringing it to a local level. Dr. Beth Peter, from the Holland Physician Hospital Organization, had heard of Parks Rx America through medical literature and was excited about the idea, deciding to bring it into her own practice. However, while searching online, she noticed that the Parks Rx America website did not list any Ottawa County parks. She then decided to team up with local parks systems to create a database for all the parks in the area. This program is a great example of how community collaboration works so well in West Michigan, Peter said. The parks community has been incredibly receptive to the medical community, asking for their advice and working well with us, so its been an excellent example of community collaboration. The database now lists almost 20 Holland area parks, and more doctors are jumping on board at the opportunity to utilize the program. If a patient is determined to benefit from some extra time outside, Peter will sit down with that patient and log on to the site together to find a good park for them. Patients have a choice of receiving a paper prescription, or they can opt to have reminders texted to their phone to go outside. Those little reminders are satisfying and can give people that extra push, Peter said. Its a human nature thing. Peter prescribes patients to outdoor time for ailments ranging from diabetes, to sleep cycle disorders, to mental health problems such as depression. However, she said the program is not meant to be a medication substitute, but rather a supplement to their current treatment plans. Holland area parks were eager to jump on board with the program once Peter reached out. Ottawa County Parks, which consists of 40 properties total, was committed to getting its parks in the database. We, in the parks industry, have always known that going outside makes you feel better, said Jessica VanGinhoven, Ottawa County Parks communication specialist. But now, as we see these evidentiary studies linking the science behind nature, and doctors telling people to go outside, it carries more weight. Studies are showing that time spent in nature can help with a range of health challenges, including obesity, depression and anxiety. For parks systems like Ottawa County Parks and Holland Township Parks, the new program is the perfect way to advertise the established parks system already in place in West Michigan. We love to showcase our parks and what we have, said Amanda Klomparens, parks and recreation coordinator for Holland Township Parks. A lot of times, parks can be there, but unless you showcase them in the right way, the public may not know what is already there. Holland Township has six parks listed on the Parks Rx America website. Klomparens said she hopes to utilize the new program to showcase all that the parks system has to offer. Were hoping to get more people who would choose to do something else instead of going to a park, she said. Maybe they wouldnt normally go outside, but they would take a chance on a park because their doctor tells them to take a chance. GRAND RAPIDS, MI Edith Siordia buried her precious little girl, Sonya, at Mount Calvary Cemetery a month after her 1967 disappearance. Her daughter, 7, with big, beautiful brown eyes and long brown hair, was walking back from Stocking Elementary School for a book she forgot when she was kidnapped. She was raped and killed. Her partially buried body was found near Wayland by horseback riders. In a way, its all such a blur. Yet, her mother remembers so much, too. They sent her home without calling, Siordia says. She went back for a book. They shouldnt have done it without calling sending a little kid home. All these years later, Siordia, making her first visit to her daughters nondescript grave in 25 years, and battling a life-threatening illness, says she is determined to outlive the man who killed the girl, if for no other reason than to be her daughters voice. It worries me that one day hes going to get out, she said. The killer who took the young girls life: Theodore Glenn Williams, a house painter who was dating Siordias babysitter. When her daughter went missing, he would sit in my kitchen and say, If I could get my hands on the SOB, Id kill him. All that time it was him, she said. He is held in a psychiatric hospital under a defunct criminal-sexual psychopath law. Hes believed to be the only one still held under the law. Williams has asked a federal judge to order his release, along with millions of dollars in restitution for a life locked up. This continued legal attack is what Siordia, who goes by Sammi, has dealt with and feared all these years. It has also driven her. Every year, Williams can petition Allegan County Circuit Court for release to show he has recovered and is no longer a menace. Now-retired Judge George Corsiglia routinely denied Williams requests. Williams petitioned Corsiglias successor but decided four years ago that bad publicity left him unable to get a fair shake there. Siordia said: If I have to fight this again, Im going to do it til my last breath, if I can, you know? Early on, Williams pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in Sonyas killing. Before he was sentenced, however, he was designated a criminal-sexual psychopath and sent to a psychiatric hospital rather than prison. The law was repealed in 1968. Williams and others held under the law were freed five years later. A state police detective, Robert Golm, pushed prosecutors to refile criminal charges. Williams pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to life. The state Supreme Court then decided he should stay in a psychiatric hospital under the law in effect at the time of the killing. Meanwhile, charges against Williams in the 1966 rape and killing of Laura Jo Sutliffe, 13, who was kidnapped from the front yard of her Sparta home, were quietly dismissed in Newaygo County. Williams led police to her body after Sonyas was found. Siordia has fought his requests for release from state hospitals as well as weekend furloughs. She was outraged when authorities discovered he had been collecting Social Security benefits while hospitalized. She and others think he received a $100,000 lump sum from Social Security, which Williams denied at a 2014 hearing. Siordia is hopeful that Williams latest claims will be dismissed. He hasnt gotten far in previous filings in state and federal courts. Williams contends he is illegally held under the old law and that his Miranda rights were violated when he was arrested for murder the second time. Siordia has her own struggles. She needs a kidney from a live donor. She undergoes dialysis three times a week. She and her other girls, Bonnie and Suzanne, moved back to California two years after Sonyas death. She returned to Grand Rapids recently for the first time in 25 years, staying with a friend, Laura Gilbert of Jenison. They met in 1966 at GMs Fisher Body plant where they did sewing. Siordia used to live on Fourth Street NW near Stocking Avenue. Shes forgotten street names, but a lot of things looks familiar. She remembers the days of looking at children, and thinking she saw her missing daughter. Even after her daughters body was found, she kept thinking she saw her. I would look for her everywhere. Siordia doesnt want to see her daughters old school near Stocking Avenue. Gilbert apologized for taking Stocking Avenue to the cemetery. She was a sweet, beautiful, happy little girl. Joyful, her mother recalled. Everybody loved her. They all loved her, you know? She found her daughters gravesite. It has a marker, but no headstone. Dirt has started to cover her daughters name. At the time of the burial, it was all she could do. She was too overwhelmed. She visited the cemetery earlier this month. She shivered in the cold that morning. She knelt at the gravesite and prayed. She and Gilbert put a pot of yellow flowers near the marker. They planted a red maple tree right behind it. Its braced with a stake. Hopefully, no one mows it over. Siordia looks at it as a replacement for the huge tree that once stood over the gravesite. Now, there is just a wide stump. Shes saddened. I felt like it was protecting her, Siordia said. The trip to West Michigan was a way for longtime friends to get together. Gilbert went to her friends home in Long Beach, California, last time. Siordia said she knew her return would have its difficult moments. At Gilberts home, Siordia kept her little dog, Mitzi my little lifeline on her lap. Talking about her daughter brings smiles. She was a very happy, cheerful little girl, her mother recalled. She liked dancing and singing, played with her dolls and took good care of them. She cared (for) and loved her little sisters, Bonnie and Suzanne, who was only 2 years old. She would come up to me and hug my leg and say, I love you, Mommy. Talking about Williams takes her back 52 years. He was manipulative, calculated and worked to gain others trust, she said. I never thought that he couldnt help himself. He knew every last thing he was doing. She closed her eyes. She didnt want to talk about him anymore. All the feelings are back, she said. Its still shock, still, I guess. Its very hard very hard on the heart and the well-being, but this is something I must do when I can. She remembered she became over-protective of her other girls. If they werent home on time, she would go looking for them. She told the school not to keep them late without her permission. That was not good for them, but I could not help it, she said. Gilbert, who lost a daughter to illness, said she sees the pain on her friends face. Losing a loved one to the hands of another must have its own special pain, she said. I sympathize but I dont know the feeling. I dont even know how I did, except I did, Siordia said. I dont feel like Im ever going to get over it, either. Not as long as Im alive or hes alive. I guess everybodys got their cross to bear. That ones mine. She has trouble sleeping and her mind goes places she doesnt want it to go. But shes also grateful for the good things in life. Shes a great-grandmother who loves children. One of her most precious possessions is a 1994 poem, To Mom Love Forever, written by her daughter, Suzanne, about her late sister. You dont ever get over it. But you do the best you can and keep going. Especially when youve got other kids to take care of. She has hated Williams. Shes prayed for him, too. Its hard to explain. Gilbert, who bought her friend a plane ticket for the visit, thinks Siordia has had a tough time while Williams has had a relatively easy life considering his crimes. She hopes Siordia will get a kidney. Siordia said: Ive gotta stay alive for Sonya, you know, and for my other kids, too. KALKASKA COUNTY, MI Police identified Todd Herman David, 59, of Kalkaska, as the motorcyclist who was killed Sunday, May 26, in a crash with a pickup truck. He was riding a Harley-Davidson east on County Road 612 when the driver a Ford F-150, traveling north on West Bear Lake Road, failed to stop for a stop sign, Kalkaska County sheriffs deputies said. David struck the passenger-side rear door of the pickup truck, which rolled twice before coming to a stop upright. David died at the scene of the 3:18 p.m. crash. The driver of the pickup, William Kaczur, 38, of Canton, Michigan, was not hurt. His wife, Amanda Kaczur, who was not restrained in the back seat, was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Police said distracted driving and speed are believed to be factors in the crash. Once the investigation is complete, police will provide reports to prosecutors for review, police said. GRAND RAPIDS, MI Despite calls for his resignation, state Rep. Larry Inman, R-Grand Traverse County, does not plan to step down while fighting federal charges of attempted extortion, bribery and lying to an FBI agent, his attorney said. Inman was arraigned Tuesday, May 28, in U.S. District Court in Grand Rapids. U.S. Magistrate Judge Phillip Green released Inman on a $25,000 unsecured bond at the brief hearing. Before his hearing, he stopped near reporters outside of the courthouse before his attorney said they needed to get inside. Afterward his attorney, Christopher Cooke, told reporters: Theres no plans to resign right now. Inman has been stripped of his House of Representative committee assignments and he has been voted out of the House Republican caucus. Many have called for his resignation, including prominent Republicans. Inman contended that damaging texts that suggested votes were for sale were simple misunderstandings that would not have happened if conversations took place on the telephone. Inman allegedly solicited funds from a labor union, Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights, in exchange for a no vote on the 2018 legislative initiative petition to repeal the states prevailing wage law. Text messages showed he demanded that a labor union increase its campaign contributions to legislators in return for votes on the wage controversy, the government said. The government said Inman requested at least $30,000 each for a dozen lawmakers votes. In a June 3 text to Person A, he allegedly said: In my opinion, We all need some more help! Carpenters have been good to me, where are the rest of the trades on checks? We only have 12, people to block it. You said all 12 will get $30,000 each to help there campaigns. That did not happen, we will get a ton of pressure on this vote. (Person B and Person C) will go to the longest neck hold on this one. I have heard most got $5,000, not $30,000. The next day, he allegedly wrote: I will text you tomorrow to make sure we have a solid 12 no votes to block prevailing wage , Larry, the indictment said. He then wrote, according to the indictment, that we never had this discussion ... . Inmate voted to repeal the law. It passed 56 to 53 in the House. The state Senate also voted in favor of repealing the law. Inman says he is innocent and will fight the charges. As a condition of bond, Inman has to surrender his passport and cannot leave Michigan without permission of a probation officer. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher OConnor had no objection to Inmans release on bond. Inman said little in the courtroom. When asked how he wanted to plead to the charges, his attorney said, Your honor, Mr. Inman pleads not guilty to all three of the charges. CALHOUN COUNTY, MI Police have identified the pedestrian struck and killed on I-94 in Calhoun County on Friday night. Alissa May Negus, 25, of Hanover, was struck by a semitruck around 11:30 p.m. on May 24, according to the Calhoun County Sheriffs Office. She was transported to Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall where she died, police said. The truck driver, a 24-year-old Manchester man, was not injured and is not considered a suspect, police said. Alcohol and speed do not appear to be factors in the incident, police said. It is unclear why Negus was walking on I-94 and the incident is still under investigation, according to the sheriffs office. KALAMAZOO TOWNSHIP, MI The Kalamazoo Township Board of Trustees is considering a recommendation to ban recreational marijuana business in town. The township board is set to hear the issue on first reading at its 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, meeting, with a recommendation on the agenda to pass an ordinance that states Kalamazoo Township does not permit recreational marijuana facilities to operate within the township." Township Supervisor Dexter Mitchell said officials had a work meeting to discuss what they can and cant do, with discussions about how regulation and enforcement related to the issue could look in Kalamazoo Township. A lot of questions could not be answered," Mitchell said, because the state has not completed and published its own statewide rules. Anyone who violates the ordinance would be guilty of a misdemeanor and could be fined up to $500 per day, the recommendation states. Kalamazoo Township is taking a proactive stance and opting out for now, Mitchell said, while also working with the planning commission to consider what the future of the issue will look like in the township. Opting out would bar marijuana businesses from locating in the township, Mitchell said, though it would not impact adults using or growing marijuana at their homes, or carrying marijuana outside of their homes. Mitchell said the township is engaging with marijuana partners in the municipality as they consider the future of recreational marijuana policy. It is a partnership, Mitchell said. It is a symbiotic dance going on. We just want to know what kind of music were dancing to. In 2018, Michigan voters approved a ballot proposal that made the adult use of marijuana legal. Now, cities, townships and other local governments are making decisions on whether or not recreational marijuana businesses will be allowed to operate within their jurisdictions. Some local governments are waiting to learn more about the states rules before making a decision on local ordinances, and some have decided to ban marijuana businesses while waiting to get a look at the states rules, which have not been released yet. The city of Portage voted to ban recreational marijuana businesses earlier this year and Kalamazoo City Attorney Clyde Robinson has recommended that the Kalamazoo Board of Commissioners opt out, too. The city government has yet to take action on the recommendation. MIDLAND, MI Half a century ago, American astronaut Neil Armstrong walked on the moon, taking one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind. Fifty years later, there are a number of special events planned in mid-Michigan to celebrate the anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing and space exploration since. Midland Center for the Arts presents Capt. Scott Kelly Capt. Scott Kelly, the astronaut who spent a year in space and whose health was compared to that of his identical twin brother, retired astronaut Mark Kelly, in what was dubbed the NASA Twin Study, is coming to Midland. Midland Center for the Arts is hosting Kelly in The Sky is Not the Limit: Lessons from a Year in Space" Tuesday, June 4. Captain Scott Kellys epic Endurance: My Year In Space and Our Journey to Mars, now a New York Times best-selling book, solidified his status as one of the greatest pioneers in history, according to the event page on www.mcfta.org. By participating in NASAs unprecedented study on how space affects the human body, Scott, together with his identical twin brother Mark on Earth, paved the way for the future of space travel and exploration. The presentation takes place at 7 p.m. and is followed by a book signing. Tickets are $25. The Midland Center for the Arts is located at 1801 W. Saint Andrews Road. Learn more about this event here. Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Celebration at MCFTA The Midland Center for the Arts also is hosting an Apollo 11 50th anniversary celebration on July 20. The event, to take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., will feature hands-on activities for families throughout the museum. Visitors can build a rocket and try to land it on the moon, explore the surface of the moon with a crater experiment, learn about the tools scientists use to view the moon and much more, according to the museums website. The cost of the event is included with regular museum admission. Admission is free for museum members. Learn more here. New show, special exhibit at Delta College Planetarium Elsewhere in the region, downtown Bay Citys Delta College Planetarium, 100 Center Ave., is celebrating the Apollo 11 50th anniversary as well. To mark the occasion, the planetarium presents a new dome show, Capcom GO! The Apollo Story, and special exhibit, Many Inspired Steps." Both the show and exhibit launched in early May and run through Aug. 31. Visitors to the planetarium will have the chance to see simulated moon rocks from the NASA Johnson Space Center, Apollo landing site panoramas, an Apollo Memories wall that they can add their own memories and impressions to, mission flags, an Apollo moon suit replica, moonwalk videos and more, according to a planetarium news release. On July 20, the planetarium will feature a special in-house production by astronomer and planetarium Manager Mike Murray called First on the Moon, to share the story with full-dome animations, rarely seen footage and photography, the release states. Were extremely pleased with the show, its probably one of the most engaging shows that weve had in a while, Murray said. It has all of the best modern production values that you could see out of this industry, so were pretty thrilled about it and were also putting live content into all of our shows." Murray said the Apollo 11 programming has been well received and some planetarium goers, himself included, remember watching the moon landing and even knew someone who was involved in the project. (This new programming) is fascinating because it shows so many of the elements it actually took to do the moon landing. ...It took almost half a million people working directly on the project," he said. It was a national effort. Everybody knew somebody. The Delta College Planetarium is located at 100 Center Ave. Learn more here or by calling 989-667-2260. Amaya Jackson, 17, had to learn how to get out of her comfort zone and discover who she was after moving from Heritage High School to Saginaw High for her last two years of school. Once a shy, quiet person, Amaya learned to immerse herself in a variety of activities. From doing cheer and playing softball and running track and field, to being a worship leader at her church and president of the Teen Advisory Council, every minute of her schedule has been dedicated to being a part of something bigger than herself. But her most recent passion has been fashion and design. Now shes in her final moments of her senior year, where instead of stressing over finding the perfect dress, shes spent the past three months making her own, customized outfit. Im a hands-on person, so most things that I do are self-taught. I have a lot of leaders in my family, so its in my blood, Jackson said. Jackson has learned how to re-create clothes and transform them into something unexpected. Whether its making a halter top out of boxer shorts or turning a dress into a cardigan, shopping for clothes at stores like Goodwill and Walmart allows her to add a unique spin to everyday attire. Everyone has their own personal style. I like to make things from scratch rather than wear designer clothes. Im really inspired by 90s fashion, all the neon, baggy sweatpants, and big hats," Jackson said. But her inspiration for her look for prom was inspired by her imagination, her tendency to think out loud, and...her dreams. I dreamt I was at a concert and saw what the performer on stage was wearing. Its how God tells me that I need to do something, so the outfit I saw in my dream became my inspiration, Jackson said. From there, her vision became a reality. Jackson selected all the fabric and material for her one-of-a-kind creation, and also decided to give her escorts suit something extra so he could compliment her look. Balancing her school work and extracurriculars didnt stop Jackson from dedicating four hours most nights to cutting, pinning and sowing. Amaya Jackson, 17, works on the finishing details of the dress that she handmade for her senior prom at Saginaw High while her grandmother, Ora McGregor, smiles watching her at work on Monday, May 20, 2019.Rachel Ellis | MLive Ive always taught my kids that if you sign up for something you have to see it through, said Jacksons mother, Melanye McGregor. Im overwhelmed by the support I receive from my family, they always show up for me and help me see things in a different way. Without them Id be lost, Jackson said. When it finally came time to attend Saginaw Highs prom on Thursday, May 23, 2019, Jackson was surrounded by her mom, younger sister Adia, and her grandmother Ora McGregor, who drove from Tennessee, and other family and friends as they eagerly waited to see her in her very own handmade dress. Jackson designed a white strapless dress, with beaded pearls on the bust and waist and a sheer bottom, which had pockets on both sides with an opening down the middle, allowing her to reveal one of the most unique parts of her design: iridescent, sequined pants. Amaya Jackson and her escort Drew Cannon pose for a photo in their customized look during their pre-prom at Ojibway Island before Saginaw High prom on Thursday, May 23, 2019. Rachel Ellis | MLive The hype around prom meant so much more to Jackson and her family. This was a chance for Jackson to follow through on something she became passionate about and enjoy one of her last formal parties before she plans to serve in the U.S. Air Force in the fall. "Prom was so fun for me. Even though I didnt win the best-dressed category, I still loved showing off my creation to my community, Jackson said. I know one day my hard work will pay off. Moving schools has helped Amaya discover new interests and ways to be involved and, more importantly, how to go after what she wants her own way. If you wouldve told me Id be this person today, I wouldnt have believed you," Jackson said. "If it wasnt for my move, I wouldnt be exposed to all the things I have been. I wouldnt be Amaya. SAGINAW, MI As city officials decide whether or not recreational marijuana facilities can operate in Saginaw, they are looking for more public input. The facilities and businesses would include growers, small businesses, safety compliance facilities, processors, secure transporters and retailers. An online survey asking residents for their opinions is posted to the citys website, www.saginaw-mi.com, through June 30. See the survey here. Saginaw City Council and the city administrator will review information obtained from the survey. Only residents with addresses listed within city limits will be considered. Recreational marijuana became legal in Michigan on Dec. 6 after 56 percent of voters passed Proposal 1 in the November election. Adults over the age of 21 can possess and consume marijuana in the privacy of their homes. It remains illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana. The state has one year to develop rules for a commercial industry in the state. Since the election, several Michigan communities have decided to ban recreational marijuana businesses within their borders. On May 3, the Saginaw City Council held a meeting at the Saginaw Community Action Center, 2824 Perkins, where they invited a panel of experts and citizens to offer input about the pros and cons of allowing marijuana businesses to operate in the city. After the meeting, Mayor Floyd Kloc, Mayor Pro Tem Brenda Moore and council members Michael Balls, Clint Bryant and Autumn Scherzer said they were undecided. Council members Annie Boensch, Jamie Forbes and Bill Ostash, said they were in favor of allowing businesses to operate, while Councilman John Milne was opposed. The following reflects the opinion of The Grand Rapids Press Editorial Board. The Grand Rapids Police Department has a problem. At a minimum, its a perception problem with communities of color in this city. Worst-case, its a cultural problem woven deeper into the fabric of the department. Either way, now is the time to fix it. The city is searching for a new police chief and it has become abundantly clear that the department needs a strong community-minded leader who can rebuild trust with all citizens of Grand Rapids and examine the departments culture with fresh eyes. We support GRPD. Its officers have an incredibly difficult job and we trust that the vast majority of them work hard every day to serve the citizens with high integrity. But the agency has been at the center of far too many controversies in recent years. From officers pulling their weapons on youth on multiple occasions for minor or no offenses to a long-tenured captain profiling a military veteran because of his ethnic heritage, it appears that something is amiss within the department. Now, the Michigan Department of Civil Rights has opened an investigation after it says it received 23 complaints of discrimination. Interim Police Chief David Kiddle said in a statement that the department is committed to transparency and welcomes the review. Thats the right approach. Regardless of what the state determines, the police department has work to do when it comes to its relations with communities of color. And thats where leadership comes in. City Manager Mark Washington is working with an outside search firm to narrow a list of candidates who applied in April. His team has said finalists would be announced in early June and that residents and community stakeholders would have an opportunity to provide feedback. Washington arrived in Grand Rapids less than a year ago from Texas and this will be one of the most important decisions he makes. He has emphasized the need to hire a chief who is not only tough on crime but is culturally competent and an innovative leader. He is absolutely correct and we trust he will stick with that guidance when it comes time to make the hire. Once in, the new chief needs the support of the city manager and the city commission to execute any necessary change he or she identifies when the inevitable pushback from within occurs. David Rahinsky, the last chief who retired in December, was reform-minded and community-driven. However, it appeared the commission didnt always have his back when he put forward his ideas for improving the department. The city commission has approved a new executive position to provide the city administration stronger oversight of the police department. According to Washington, the position is to embed equity into GRPD policies, procedures and practice, and support community-police relations. The new position, however, does not replace the need for a first-rate, community-minded chief. It is the chief who will be citys top sworn officer and must gain the respect of the commanders and the rank-and-file. And it is the chief who needs to earn the trust of community members who havent always felt respected by their police department. Democratic presidential hopeful and U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., is planning two campaign stops in Michigan next week. Warren will make her first appearance in the Great Lakes State on Tuesday, June 4 for a community conversation at Focus: HOPE in Detroit at 1:30 p.m., followed by a 6:45 p.m. town hall at Lansing Community College. The 69-year-old senior senator is the latest candidate to come through Michigan, recognized as a key 2020 battleground after President Donald Trump won by a narrow 10,704 votes in 2016. Warren, 69, is focusing her campaign on economic issues and ending corruption in Washington. She pledged to shut the revolving door between Wall Street and Washington. Her campaign website includes promises to permanently ban members of Congress from trading stocks while in office and from becoming lobbyists when they retire. She proposed an ultra-millionaire tax on the 75,000 wealthiest American families to partially fund universal childcare, student loan debt relief, and her Medicare for All plan. Warrens abortion rights platform, released after several state legislatures passed laws restricting womens ability to terminate pregnancies, urges Congress to pass laws protecting access to reproductive care. The plan includes federal laws to prohibit states from interfering in a persons ability to receive abortion services and guarantee reproductive health coverage as part of all health coverage, among other things. Warren has called for the elimination of for-profit charter schools, but her stance on school choice has evolved over time. She wrote in favor of school choice in her 2003 book, but opposed raising a cap on charters in her home state in 2016 and has been a vocal critic of private voucher programs in recent years. Warrens campaign called Michigan-native Betsy DeVos is the worst Secretary of Education weve seen in a May email to supporters. Warren pledged to pick a public school teacher to replace DeVos in the Department of Education. She proposed an ultra-millionaire tax on the 75,000 wealthiest American families to partially fund universal childcare, student loan debt relief, and her Medicare for All plan. She also committed to criminal justice reform to address racial disparities in sentencing and conviction. Warren supports cutting the countrys defense budget. She launched her exploratory presidential committee on December 31, 2018, and formally declared her candidacy in February. Warren was a frequent target for Trump during the 2016 presidential election, criticizing Warren for identifying as a minority in a directory of legal professors. She was a visiting professor at the University of Michigan in 1985. Other Democratic presidential hopefuls to visit Michigan include U.S. Sens. Cory Booker, D-N.Y.; Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y.; Kamala Harris, D-Calif.; Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., and Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, former U.S. Rep. Beto ORourke, D-Texas, businessman Andrew Yang and author Marianne Williamson also made stops in Michigan. Trump and Vice President Mike Pence visited in March and April, stressing their administrations positive impact on the state economy. Pence traveled to Michigan and Wisconsin to campaign for the United States-Mexico-Canada-Agreement, which would replace the North American Free Trade Agreement, if ratified by Congress. EAST LANSING, MI -- Restoring public trust in how Michigan State University handles sexual assault incidents is a top priority for new President Samuel Stanley Jr. The MSU Board of Trustees unanimously agreed Tuesday to finalize a 5-year, $800,000 contract with Stanley, who previously served as president of Stony Brook University in New York. The Harvard-trained doctor and biomedical researcher said he plans to meet with survivors of Larry Nassar, a former MSU doctor convicted of sexually assaulting women for decades under the guise of medical treatment, and implement reforms to improve the universitys response to Title IX complaints on campus. Its not just about fixing our procedures -- thats incredibly important -- but we want to create an infrastructure where people can report, where they are comfortable reporting, where they believe things will be acted upon," Stanley said. "We also have to have a culture of preventing these kinds of things from happening. Stanley, now MSUs 21st president, said he followed the Nassar scandal as it unfolded from New York. He said MSU has since implemented a number of important steps to change the campus culture when it comes to reporting Title IX violations, but continuing the work will be a fundamental part of his tenure. Particularly for me, as a physician, (what I saw) was a gross and incomprehensible betrayal of trust that took place," he said at a Tuesday press conference. "As a physician, we really rely on people to believe in us and as an academic leader we rely on people to believe in us. When that trust is damaged its terrible, as weve seen. Stanley held off on proposing specific measures to improve the situation, saying he still has a lot to learn about how MSU operates. However, Stanley said developing a plan to improve diversity, inclusion and equity at MSU will promote shared respect among the campus community. Students, faculty and staff must clearly understand their responsibility in preventing sexual violence and reporting incidents to authorities, he said, but the buck ultimately stops with the president. Thats very important that people feel as though the administration is held accountable for actions and is responsible for its actions," Stanley said. Former MSU president Lou Anna Simon, Stanleys predecessor, testified before Congress she was unaware Nassar was the target of a 2014 Title IX investigation. Nassar was cleared of the allegations and continued to abuse others for another two years before being fired in 2016. The 18-member search committee participated in 22 community input sessions. Board Chair Dianne Byrum said the university community clearly expressed a desire for a candidate with no ties to MSU. Search committee member Pero Dagbovie, professor of history and associate dean for the graduate school, said community members recommended a president who advances a culture of empathy, inclusiveness, healing, engagement and transparency among other academic qualifications. Stanley fits the bill, he said. Members of the MSU search committee said Stanley is committed to healing a campus community rocked by these crimes and lauded his academic qualifications during the Tuesday board meeting. Stanleys hire, effective Aug. 1, fills a void at MSU left since Simon resigned in January 2018. He succeeds Acting President Satish Updpa, who was appointed in January to replace former Interim President John Engler, who resigned while under siege for controversial comments about Nassar victims. Stanley served as the fifth president of Stony Brook University, a prestigious research school near Long Island, New York. Hes helmed the university since 2009. Stanley said he had an incredible run at Stony Brook, but believes the research institution could benefit from new leadership. Hes been considering a career move for the last two years, Stanley said Tuesday. During his tenure, Stony Brook University had a history of alleged violations of Title IX, a federal law requiring public universities to investigate and respond to claims of sexual harassment. Stony Brook University was among 76 universities investigated by the U.S. Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights for their handling of sexual violence cases. In 2015, a graduate student sued the university for Title IX violations, alleging Stony Brook officials were indifferent to her sexual assault. A second lawsuit was filed in 2018 by another student who alleged a history professor sexually harassed her. A Seattle native, Stanleys research focused on the bodys defense against infectious diseases. Stanley is an expert in the biological mechanisms that cells employ when responding to parasites, bacteria and viruses. Stanley earned his bachelors degree in biological sciences from the University of Chicago and earned his medical degree from Harvard Medical School. He went to Washington University in St. Louis in 1983 for a fellowship in infectious diseases in the School of Medicine, eventually becoming a professor in the departments of medicine and molecular microbiology. The MSU board chose to conduct a private search, releasing no information about applicants or the name of a finalist until Tuesdays announcement. The decision drew criticism from faculty and members of the MSU community, especially as criticism mounted over how administrators handled the Nassar scandal. Calls for transparency continued Tuesday morning. Visitors to the board meeting were greeted by protesters who covered caution tape over a statue of former MSU President John A. Hannah before being asked to remove it by police. Byrum said the intent was to find the best person possible" to lead the university, heralding Stanleys academic background and experience at multiple levels of leadership. Even though this was a confidential search, it was very open and inclusive in the process, Byrum said. I think the outcome speaks volumes, because we had a successful search and indeed did hire the best person to lead Michigan State University. Stanley said he is looking forward to learning more from the community about its desire for transparency and sensitivity. He pledged to create a safe campus for all." Know this: Im committed to being a great listener, Im committed to learning from you, Stanley said. I will do my best to be the president that Michigan State University needs to move forward. The Russian oligarchs niece at the center of the corruption scandal that brought down the Austrian government was actually a Bosnian student paid to set up the then-vice-chancellor, an Austrian tabloid claims. Austrias government collapsed on Monday after a no-confidence motion in parliament ousted Chancellor Sebastian Kurz from power. The scandal began two weeks earlier, however, when German media published a secretly recorded video showing former vice-chancellor Heinz-Christian Strache discussing an illicit deal with a woman purporting to be the niece of a Russian tycoon. In the video, shot in Ibiza in 2017, the woman plies Strache with alcohol, and according to Austrian tabloid Krone, harder drugs to loosen his tongue. She then offers to buy a 50 percent stake in the countrys Kronen Zeitung newspaper and switch its editorial position in favor of Straches Freedom Party (FPO). Strache offered the woman business contracts in Austria in exchange for favorable coverage, media reported. Despite the spy-movie premise, the woman in the starring role was reportedly not the Russian heiress she claimed to be. A report by Kronen, published Monday, claims that she was a Bosnian agricultural science student, and was paid up to 7,000 euros for her acting skills. Citing investigator Gert Schmidt, the tabloid revealed that the woman spoke four languages, including perfect Russian, and was the kind of blond beauty who interests Mr. Strache. The paper states that the Ibizan villa the video was shot in was already bugged and had previously been used for other covert operations. Who set it up? The funders of the sting operation are still unknown, although Schmidt suspects disgruntled liberal politicians who would stop at nothing to keep Straches FPO and outgoing Chancellor Sebastian Kurzs Austrian Peoples Party (OVP) out of power, and were willing to pay 600,000 euros for the footage. Strache has called the sting a honey trap stage-managed by intelligence agencies, but no proof of any agencys involvement exists. The paper claims that a Vienna-based lawyer, Ramin Mirfakhrai, put Strache in touch with the femme fatale. Mirfakhrai confirmed his involvement, but described the operation as a civil society-driven project in which investigative-journalistic approaches were taken. Strache, on the other hand, called it a targeted political assassination. Also on rt.com 'Reminds of Israeli political strategist Tal Silberstein' - Austrian Chancellor on tape scandal Der Spiegel and the Suddeutsche Zeitung the German papers that revealed the video have refused to comment on the tapes origins in order to protect their sources. Both Strache and Kurz have suggested that a shadowy Israeli political consultant, Tal Silberstein, may have orchestrated the setup. Silberstein had previously worked with Austrias left-wing Social Democrats (SPO) in 2017 to discredit Kurzs bid for power, and for the party in 2002. A kind of Israeli Roger Stone character, Silberstein also consulted with Bolivias Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada in 2002, advising the strongman to start negative campaigns about his left-wing opponent Evo Morales. Convenient timing While obviously a well-planned attack on Strache, and by extension Kurz, the video surfaced at a convenient time for the European establishment. It is unlikely a coincidence that the team that made the video sat on such scandalous footage for almost two years, especially if the goal was simply to dislodge Kurz and Strache from power. Released less than two weeks before last weekends European Parliament elections, the tape was likely a calculated blow against the OVP and FPOs chances in the vote, and against the European right more broadly. Linking the emergent right wing to Moscow could be an effective strategy, what with themes of election meddling and Russian interference bandied around by the media across the continent. Also on rt.com Austrian VC caught discussing alleged shady deals, and pundits cry 'Russia took over the country' The media bought it, with pundits panicking over the Russian plot to destroy the free press and sounding the alarm on how the European right is secretly on the take from Russia. The Kremlin denied any knowledge of the starring woman, and her billionaire uncle came forward to say he had no family links to her and was an only child. With elections over, the womans true identity is now a side note. However, if the intent was to discredit the European right, the plan could be considered a failure. Nationalist and right-wing parties delivered a good performance across Europe, helping defeat the combined majority of the European Parliaments center-right EPP and center-left S&D blocs. In Austria, though Kurz faces an uphill battle to regain power in Septembers snap election, the OVP surged to victory on Sunday, taking 35 percent of the vote. Even the FPO, rocked by the tape scandal, lost only two percent, taking 17 percent of the vote. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! Austrian President Alexander van der Bellen on Tuesday officially dissolved Chancellor Sebastian Kurzs government, a day after it lost a no-confidence vote in parliament. The president has tasked Vice Chancellor Hartwig Loger to serve as chancellor until an interim head of cabinet is appointed, RIA Novosti reports. The Austrian parliament passed a motion of no confidence against Kurz and his government over the scandal involving the ruling partys coalition partner, the right-wing Freedom Party (FPO), whose former leader Heinz-Christian Strache was taped allegedly discussing exchanging government contracts. Kurz, 32, said he would fight to win back his position. He remains popular and his center-right party finished first on Sunday in Austria in the European Parliament election with 34.9 percent support, a gain of almost 8 percentage points over 2014, AP said. Austrian president dissolves Kurzs govt after no-confidence vote Austrian president dissolves Kurzs govt after no-confidence vote Source : RT - Daily news The editor-in-chief of the Lithuanian branch of Russias Sputnik new agency was detained on arrival to the Vilnius airport and labeled a threat to the national security of Lithuania. Marat Kasem himself told RIA-Novosti of his detention. The journalist said he was banned from entering Lithuania for the next five years. The editor-in-chief of Sputnik Lithuania arrived in the country on a business trip on Tuesday. DETAILS TO FOLLOW A daring rescue by a man who had to lean from a seventh floor balcony to retrieve two girls from a burning flat downstairs, has been captured on video in Russias Far East. A large fire broke out at an apartment block in the town of Fokino in the Primorsky Region on Monday. It spread so quickly that two girls, aged 12 and 3, failed to evacuate in time and found themselves cut off from the exit by flames and suffocating smoke. They retreated to the small balcony on the sixth floor, but it could only provide temporary shelter. The people in the street saw the children in distress and stretched a blanket underneath. They tried to encourage the girls to jump, insisting they would catch them. But it seemed a risky idea as the height of the sixth floor is around 20 meters. At that moment, seventh floor resident Aleksey Reznichenko looked out of his window to check out what the noise was about. It was a shocking site, but the 20-year-old amateur athlete, who recently returned from the army, didnt fumble. I wasnt sacred. I just had no time to think. I saw a lot of smoke. The people in the street were in panic. I knew just one thing I had two young lives in my hands, being the only one, who could help them, Aleksey recalled. Aleksey managed to lean from his balcony and lift the girls to safety. It was a dangerous stunt, which required not only courage, but a lot of strength as well. Reznichenko said that at one point they nearly fell to the ground. Also on rt.com Apartment in Russia burns as firetruck gets stuck in the mud (VIDEO) It took 21 rescuers and seven firetrucks to put out the fire. There were no injuries or fatalities, emergencies services said, thanks to Alekseys heroics. Users on social media have been urging the authorities reward the man for his selfless act. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! Ukraines newly minted President Volodymyr Zelensky has restored the Ukrainian citizenship of Mikheil Saakashvili, the former Georgian president and onetime governor of Odessa. Thank you President Zelensky! Glory to Ukraine, Saakashvili announced on Facebook on Tuesday, linking to the presidential decree granting him re-entry. Saakashvili later said he will return to Ukraine on Wednesday. Saakashvili served as Georgias head of state from 2004 to 2007, and again from 2008 to 2013. He presided over the caucasian state during its conflict with Russia in 2008, and traded his Georgian citizenship for Ukrainian papers in 2015. After serving as governor of the Odessa region, Saakashvili was booted from Ukraine by then-President Petro Poroshenko in 2017, and barred from entering the country until 2021. Also on rt.com Ex-Georgian leader Saakashvili calling for Poroshenkos impeachment deported from Ukraine to Poland Prior to kicking Saakashvili from Ukraine, Poroshenko had sheltered the former Georgian leader, who was wanted for numerous charges in his home country, including embezzlement, corruption, and brutality against protesters. Saakashvili was a prominent critic of Russia and Vladimir Putin during his time in exile, and after some time hobnobbing with the late Senator John McCain in Washington, found willing hosts in Ukraines anti-Russian government. His luck changed when he turned on Poroshenko, accusing the Ukrainian leader of corruption and forming a rival political party, the Movement of New Forces. Barred from entering Ukraine while on a foreign trip in 2017, Saakashvili attempted to re-enter the country several months later, and was eventually arrested and deported to Poland in February 2018. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! In an attempt to bring some balance to Chinas growing domination across the Indian Ocean region, Delhi and Tokyo agreed to jointly develop Sri Lankas largest and busiest seaport, Colombo. India, Japan and Sri Lanka are planning to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in the near future. The agreement is aimed at expanding the port by increasing its volume and transportation capacities. Nearly 90 percent of Sri Lankas seaborne goods currently pass through the Colombo port, which is located on the west coast and serves as an important terminal in Asia due to its strategic location in the Indian Ocean. The port connects the country with Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Also on rt.com Belt and Road to boost Chinas growth over next four decades In 2017, the port of Colombo handled the traffic of 6.21 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU). Last year, maritime transport data analyst Alphaliner ranked the sea hub as the Worlds highest container growth port. The joint project reportedly comes in response to growing concerns about increased Chinese investment across the region, which could drive countries such as Sri Lanka into indebtedness. Over the past years, Colombo has been seeking to benefit and attain full capacity with a boom in regional economies. Also on rt.com Is US concerned over China pouring money into the Middle East? RTs Keiser Report has the answer Officials from the three nations are currently negotiating the joint enterprise, the Economic Times reports, stressing that the deal might be sealed over the next few months. The partners may attract private sector investment to implement the project with Japanese Official Development Assistance expected to provide partial financing. For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business section Tehran is not interested in empty talks with the US, since it doesnt buy Donald Trumps claim that Washington is not up for a regime change in Iran. Trump should prove with actions that he wants peace first, it says. Iran is not interested in empty rhetoric and pays more attention to behaviors and will decide and act upon them, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Seyyed Abbas Mousavi said on Tuesday. Also on rt.com US not looking for regime change in Iran, says Trump, beefing up military in Middle East Earlier in the day, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted that Iran wont buy into the US presidents words as long as Washingtons economic terrorism hurts Iranian people and causes tensions in the region. On Monday, Donald Trump claimed his team does not seek regime change in Iran but only wants to prevent Tehran from having nuclear weapons. The supposed proclamation of peace came weeks after the US started building up its military presence in the Middle East. Washington claimed it deployed warships there in order to send a message to Tehran. Also on rt.com Iran proposes non-aggression pact to Gulf neighbors as regional tensions soar Talking about prospects for negotiations with Washington, Mousavi said that at the moment the chances are very slim. We do not have any talks with the US, and our basis is on respecting international pacts to which the US can return, he added. Last year, Trump unilaterally pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal (known as the JCPOA) and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran. The move was condemned by a number of states including the US closest allies. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! Pakistan has responded to reports that India has not invited PM Imran Khan to Narendra Modis swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, blaming internal politics and recent Pakistan-bashing employed by Modi during the election campaign. Foreign Minister Mehmood Qureshi explained to the Geo News program that the snub had been expected by Islamabad, as Modi had employed anti-Pakistan rhetoric during Indias grueling five-week election process. His [Modis] entire focus [during the election campaign] was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative [soon]. Earlier, New Delhi invited leaders of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)which alongside India includes Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutanto Modis swearing-in ceremony on Thursday. When Modi first took office in 2014, Pakistans then leader, Nawaz Sharif, attended the inauguration alongside leaders of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) body. Also on rt.com Final results: Modis party wins overwhelming majority in Indian parliament However, relations between India and Pakistan have dipped to their lowest in decades over the past months. In February, a suicide bomb attack by Pakistan-based jihadists in Indian-controlled Kashmir killed 40 members of Indias paramilitary police force, prompting renewed border clashes and aerial battles between Indian and Pakistani forces. However, an all-out conflict between the two nuclear powers was averted. As part of efforts to normalize relations, Qureshi noted that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had telephoned Modi to congratulate his BJP party on securing a second term in office last week. During the conversation, Khan had expressed desire for both countries to work together for [the] betterment of their peoples, according to a foreign ministry statement. If he [Modi] wants development of this region...the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. Also on rt.com India explodes 500-kg bomb as tit-for-tat tests raise tensions with Pakistan Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! Palestine will not accept the deal of the century with Israel which is in the works in Washington and rejects all of the recent peacemaking proposals, the Palestinian ambassador to Russia has said. Abdelhafiz Nofal, speaking at a press conference in Moscow, has referred to the upcoming peace deal of the century advertised by US President Donald Trump, as a strange agenda. They are suggesting turning Palestinian refugee camps into some new cities, they are offering us money for our land, for our rights, but we will never accept that. He said the Palestinian authorities stand firm in their rejection of all of Israels and the US recent initiatives ostensibly aimed at promoting peace. Jerusalem, which the US under Trump recognized as the Israeli capital, belongs to all religions and is not a bargaining chip, he said. No specific details of the deal of the century, which has been in the making for over two years, have been officially released, but its various reported premises show a string bias in Israels favor. One recent report claims the deal envisions enforcing Israeli civil law over its settlements in the occupied West Bank, effectively annexing the territory. Also on rt.com Trump's 'deal of the century' will give Israel control over West Bank settlements report Trump has made his allegiance to Israel abundantly clear by recognizing Jerusalem, which Palestine also claims as its holy city, as the Israeli capital. The move sparked a wave of mass protests across the entire Arab world, including in US-allied countries like Saudi Arabia, and prompted Palestine to reject any role Washington may play in mediating with Israel. Palestinian authorities have rejected all of Washingtons proposals since then. If you like this story, share it with a friend! French rights group ACAT sought on Tuesday to block the loading of what it said were munitions onto a Saudi Arabian ship docked in southern France, Reuters reports. As pressure mounts on Paris to stop military sales to the kingdom, ACAT said it had filed a legal challenge to prevent the vessel from taking delivery of its cargo. The Bahri Tabuk is due to load French weapons for Saudi Arabia, one of the main belligerents in the Yemeni conflict, the group said. It added that it is mobilizing and is calling on civil society and local networks to prevent these munitions from going to Saudi Arabia. Another Saudi ship left Frances northern coast two weeks ago without a cargo of weapons after dockers threatened to block its arrival in the port of Le Havre. Rights activists try to block new Saudi ship from leaving France with arms cargo Rights activists try to block new Saudi ship from leaving France with arms cargo Source : RT - Daily news Russias cutting edge heavyweight drone Hunter (Okhotnik), designed to take down enemy air defenses, will be shown at a major military expo just outside Moscow in June, the military has announced. The state-of-the-art S-350 Vityaz missile system as well as an array of other mighty war machines will also be on display at the Army-2019 exhibition. The drone which was under development by the Sukhoi aircraft manufacturer since 2011 is expected to become operational this year and is regarded by the Russian military as a top priority. While the UAVs technical specifications are a secret, media allege it will have a takeoff weight of some 20-25 tons and operate at a supersonic speed of 1,400 km/h (870mph). Also, the aircraft is likely to possess stealth capabilities and be able to carry surveillance and observation equipment. Leaked footage claiming to show a Hunter being tested on an airstrip suggests the brand-new UAV is a wing-type aircraft. It is also rumored that the drone may possibly be paired with the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter. The UAV, controlled by the warplane crew, will penetrate the enemys air defenses to clear the way for the fighter jet, a source told Interfax news agency. Also on rt.com Soulless hunters: Should the West beware of new Russian heavyweight drones? In February, Russias Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov spoke on the promised maiden flight for the device, saying it will happen in the nearest future. The drone, arguably being one of the top Army-2019 attractions, will be displayed alongside the S-350 Vityaz missile defense system another weapon expected to enter squadron service with the Russian Army this year. The new system, designed to replace the aging S-300s, successfully underwent tests back in March. Like this story? Share it with a friend! Belgrade has ordered its troops to full alert after reports that Kosovo police entered Serb-populated regions of the former Serbian province. Serbias state TV said on Tuesday that Kosovos special police burst into northern Kosovo and made several arrests. There was no confirmation of the action from Pristina, AP said. Serbian government official Marko Djuric said the Kosovo police action was designed to intimidate and expel Serbs from Kosovo and presents a not only a threat to stability but the most direct threat to peace. Serbia lost control over Kosovo after a NATO intervention in 1999, and Belgrade does not recognize Kosovos 2008 declaration of independence. Serbian troops on alert after Kosovo police arrests in northern region Serbian troops on alert after Kosovo police arrests in northern region Source : RT - Daily news Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday appointed former finance minister Oleksandr Danylyuk as the top official of the body responsible for coordinating national security. The countrys national security and defense council comprises ministers, senior lawmakers and top regional officials and is chaired by the president. Danylyuk pushed reforms and cooperation with the International Monetary Fund while finance minister between 2016-2018. He was dismissed in June 2018, after a reported conflict with then-Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman. During Zelenskys presidential campaign, observers said that if elected, he could appoint Danylyuk as foreign minister. Ukraines ex-finance minister Danylyuk to head security & defense council Ukraines ex-finance minister Danylyuk to head security & defense council Source : RT - Daily news The United States walked out of a UN disarmament forum in protest after Venezuela took up the conferences rotating chairmanship, insisting it would not participate in a conference led by a rogue state. Whatever is discussed in there, whatever is decided, has absolutely no legitimacy because it is an illegitimate regime presiding over that body, US ambassador to the Conference on Disarmament (CD) Robert Wood told reporters Tuesday after he stormed out of the meeting. Wood ditched the forum as soon as his Venezuelan counterpart Jorge Valero was granted the conferences presidency which rotates on a monthly basis calling Valeros acceptance speech a diatribe of propaganda. The US and its allies in the Lima Group comprised of more than a dozen Latin American allies including Mexico, Colombia, Brazil and Chile will boycott the CD for the next four weeks, until the new chair takes over, Wood said in a statement after the meeting. The CD was established in 1984 to provide an international forum for arms control negotiations, and is held three times a year in Geneva. Sixty-five countries currently participate in the conference, including all states with a declared nuclear arsenal. Washington, along with a handful of allies, supports Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido, who declared himself interim president in January, with US recognition. The pro-Guaido bloc considers Venezuelas elected president, Nicolas Maduro, to be illegitimate. Also on rt.com Venezuela crisis: Maduro officials & Guaido's opposition to hold talks in Norway Wood demanded the CD chairmanship be granted to a member of the opposition. A representative of Juan Guaido, the interim president, should be in this body, should be sitting in that chair right now, he said, adding that the Maduro government is in essence dead, it just doesnt want to lay down. US President Donald Trump has ramped up sanctions on Venezuela in recent months, crippling energy exports of a country already in dire straights and depriving the socialist government of much needed revenue. Washington considers sanctions part of another maximum pressure campaign, designed to coerce the Maduro government into compliance. Also on rt.com Food, fuel ships to Venezuela are being sabotaged, says Maduro The US endorsed an opposition coup attempt in late April, but the uprising failed to inspire mass defections from the security forces and fizzled out within days, leaving Washington and the Guaido faction frustrated. Ambassador Wood staged a walkout at last years CD as well, in that case over Syrias elevation to the chair position. Wood worked off a similar script then, ditching the meeting as the Syrian ambassador began his address and complaining to reporters outside the chamber. Like this story? Share it with a friend! We knew Dustin was smart, but we knew something wasnt right. Thats how Arkansas dad Scott Gann describes his sons early years in elementary school. Dustin was struggling, and Gann said teachers kept telling him that his son just needed to grow up, boys will outgrow this. Dustin, now 15 and in high school, remembers that he would just sit there and stare at a piece of paper for like five minutes, trying to understand. He worried he wasnt trying hard enough, and he tried not to draw attention to himself. I just kind of laid low for most of my school days, he said. Finally, in 3rd grade during state-mandated assessment testing in the spring, Dustin told his teacher, You know, I cant read. Gann says they all knew Dustin had been struggling, hed even received some extra help at school. But he calls that moment an awakeningfor both the teacher and Dustins parents. That summer his parents paid to have Dustin tested, and he was diagnosed with dyslexia, a learning disability that makes it difficult to read and spell. Gann said he was surprised at the schools reaction. The school was real standoffish about using the word dyslexia. It was almost like it was a naughty word. Thus began an uphill battle to get Dustin the help he needed, according to Gann. Ultimately the family hired a private tutor and moved Dustin to a private school to receive specialized instruction. Gann said the changes in Dustin were as different as night and day, not just in his reading but in his self-confidence as well. Gann knows in many ways his family was lucky; they had the resources to help Dustin. We are in a place where we can provide helpand its not fair for those parents who cant provide that, said Gann, who has turned all the pain and lessons we learned over the years into advocacy. He joined other Arkansas parents to push successfully for changes in state laws around reading instruction and dyslexia. Arkansas has passed at least eight of these laws over the past seven years, including legislation that defines dyslexia and establishes requirements for screening and intervention. Every kid deserves this, said Gann, thats why I advocate so hard. As for Dustin, hes doing well in high school and last summer he even passed the written portion of his test for a drivers permit. He did that without any reading accommodations. Related Reading: Franklin Graham and Christian Leaders from Across the Country Call for Special Day of Prayer for President Donald J. Trump on June 2, 2019 More than 250 Christian leaders sign statement of support NEWS PROVIDED BY Billy Graham Evangelistic Association May 28, 2019 CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 28, 2019 /Christian Newswire/ -- Evangelist Franklin Graham, along with more than 250 Christian leaders from across the United States, has called for a special day of prayer for President Donald J. Trump on Sunday, June 2, 2019. They are asking pastors, congregations and families across the country to focus on praying for the president that day. A statement that was released collectively by Franklin Graham and the Christian leaders reads: "We the undersigned are calling for June 2 to be a special Day of Prayer for the president of the United States, Donald J. Trump, that God would protect, strengthen, embolden and direct him. We believe our nation is at a crossroads, at a dangerous precipice. The only one who can fix our country's problems is God Himself, and we pray that God will bless our president and our nation for His glory." Graham said, "We know that God hears and answers prayer. He can soften hearts and change minds. He is all-powerful, and He rules over the affairs of nations. The Bible instructs us to pray for those in authority, 'that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior' (1 Timothy 2:23)." To see the official statement and view the list of Christian leaders calling the nation to prayer, visit https://bit.ly/2Wl0Lcg. Graham is currently in New England, where he is nearing the end of the seven-state Decision America Northeast Tour. He is presenting the Gospel of Jesus Christ at each stop, calling people to repentance and faith, and praying together with believers for their families, churches, communities, and those who are far from God. More than 21,600 have attended the events in Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Outreaches in Connecticut and New York will take place in the coming days. For more information and to read coverage of the Decision America Northeast Tour, visit https://northeast.billygraham.org. About the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world by every effective means available. From its headquarters in Charlotte, N.C., the BGEA directs a wide range of domestic and international ministries, including: large-scale festivals led by evangelists Franklin Graham and Will Graham; The Billy Graham Library; The Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove, located outside of Asheville, N.C.; SearchforJesus.net, an Internet evangelism project reaching thousands of people for Christ online; and many others through print, television, telephone, radio and the Internet. For more information, please visit www.billygraham.org. SOURCE Billy Graham Evangelistic Association CONTACT: Mark Barber, 828-386-5803, media@bgea.org 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. The Centre may soon launch an electronic invoice system mechanism under Goods and Services Tax (GST) for companies, but it will only be applicable to big firms in the initial stages, sources told The Economic Times. By way of this system, every transaction will automatically be registered on the GST Network. "It is being examined. We are seeing if bigger companies could be brought in to begin with," a government official told the paper. Moneycontrol could not independently verify the story. The government is optimistic about e-invoicing after the successful launch of the e-way bill system in 2018. This process will help the government capture transactions instantly on their network and help in curbing tax evasion. Companies will also be able to earn tax credits and compliance will also be easier. The GST Council formed a committee which has a sub-group specifically to take care of issues related to e-invoicing. This group will look into the business processes and legal aspects of e-invoice generation. It will take care of invoice formats and any modifications required therein, cancellation and other such issues. Industry experts suggest that e-invoicing will make things easier for businesses but it still needs time to be developed. "To the extent of e-invoices, data should be automatically populated in the GST returns and hence, compliance would be simplified. However, the industry needs to be given adequate time to prepare for this significant change," Pratik Jain at PwC. He added that technology would be a major part of business in the near future and the government had already set the ball rolling with the e-way bill. "Through the e-way bill system, we already have a real-time authentication mechanism for manufacturers and traders, which essentially needs to be extended for the service sector as well," he added. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More ArcelorMittal is in talks with Resurgent Power Ventures Pte for buying out Essar Power's 1,200-megawatt generation plant in Madhya Pradesh, sources told Bloomberg. As per the report, preliminary discussions have already begun. ArcelorMittal had previously submitted a non-binding offer of Rs 4,800 crore for the same asset, sources told the wire agency on condition of anonymity. If Resurgent comes on board, it would help Arcelor buy the plant without putting much stress on its balance sheet. Sources said that the discussions are still ongoing and there is no guarantee that a deal will take place. One of Resurgent Power's stakeholders is Tata Power Co, which has a 26 percent stake while ICICI Bank and sovereign wealth funds of Oman and Kuwait are the others. The Essar Group and Arcelor have been tangled in the former's bankruptcy proceedings for over a year under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), wherein Arcelor is trying to gain control of the company. Acquiring the Madhya Pradesh plant will give Arcelor a huge boost in its efforts to win the Essar. ArcelorMittal's Rs 42,000 crore bid was accepted by a consortium of lenders to Essar Steel. However, the Supreme Court ordered to halt the plan in April due to issues. Image: Wikimedia Several people have reportedly been buying limited edition products only to sell them off at a much higher price later. To prevent its new range of limited-edition rugs in Belgium from meeting with the same fate, Ikea has decided to employ biometric tools to decide who gets to buy one. So, in case a buyer is really interested in owning one of their special rugs, they would have to let Ikea read their brain to establish if they really deserve to possess it. This, they believe, would prevent buyers from reselling the rugs at 10 times the price they are selling at, reported Inc.com. A total of eight limited-edition rugs have been created by renowned artists such as fashion designer Virgil Abloh, as a part of the Ikea Art Event 2019 collection. Notably, Abloh is the artistic director of couture brand Louis Vuittons menswear collection. In a noble endeavour to make high-class art accessible to the masses, Ikea will be selling these high-end rugs at very affordable rates. However, such an initiative had backfired once; an Abloh-designed rug, originally sold for $500, is currently listed on eBay for $5,000. So, Ikea decided that one way to prevent this would be to sell it to genuine buyers, who would really be in love with the product. Title: Ikea (He)Art Scanner Client: IKEA Team: Social.Lab Brussels By measuring customers' brain waves and heart rate, IKEA and Social.Lab Brussels made sure you could only buy if you felt it. Learn more about the campaign via @Adage: https://t.co/Npre4fMjpH#ClientWork pic.twitter.com/WI15eULlpa May 20, 2019 Therefore, before the Art Event rugs went on sale in Belgium, Ikea hired advertising agency Ogilvy Social Lab Brussels to come up with a creative solution that could at least weed out people who are looking at buying it for the sole purpose of reselling. Thats when Ogilvy came up with a headset that reads brain waves and heartbeats. They named it the Ikea (He)art Scanner. What the machine and the algorithm did was study peoples emotional response towards the rug before letting them purchase it. The rugs were displayed on an art gallery wall. Customers who approached these were asked to put on the headset. The machine would then read their brain waves and heartbeat and displayed a score on the wall. Speaking on the mechanism, Ogilvy said: When people looked at the art, our specially designed algorithm could categorize the data from the brain and body reaction. If someone received a sufficient score, they were allowed to buy the rug. All the rugs sold out in about a week. While that was fast, it was still slower than those that got sold out instantly at other stores. Thus, Ikea Belgium considered the campaign to be a success and claimed that none of the rugs from its promotion was listed on eBay. State-owned engineering and construction firm Ircon International Ltd on May 28 said its standalone net profit fell by 55.81 percent to Rs 95.59 crore during the quarter ended March 31, on account of higher expenses. The company had clocked a net profit of Rs 216.35 crore during the corresponding quarter a year ago, Ircon said in a BSE filing. Its total income rose to Rs 1,606.32 crore from Rs 1,573.75 crore in the year-ago period. During the January-March 2019 period, its total expenses stood at Rs 1,382.73 crore, higher from Rs 1281.00 crore in the year-ago period. Ircon International Ltd (Ircon), under the railways ministry, is a leading turnkey construction company having presence in several states of India and countries like Malaysia, Nepal, Mozambique, Ethiopia, Afghanistan, the United Kingdom (UK), Algeria and Sri Lanka. The company recently won an international railway contract worth of $91.27 million from Sri Lanka Railways under the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, Government of Sri Lanka. Shares of the company on May 28 rose 2.58 percent to Rs 427.35 apiece on the BSE. The S&P BSE Midcap has risen 76 percent and the S&P BSE Smallcap index has added 64 percent since May 26, 2014the day PM Narendra Modi assumed office for the first time. In the same period, the S&P BSE Sensex rallied 60 percent. The outperformance of small and midcap indices is expected to continue during Narendra Modi's second term as well, suggest experts. However, for the last 18 months, these indices have been under pressure due to a sharp rise in crude oil prices, corporate governance issues, muted earnings growth and uncertainty around the general elections among other issues. As of May 27, the S&P BSE Midcap index is trading 11 percent below its 52-week peak and the S&P BSE Smallcap index is down about 15 percent from its 52-week high. According to a brokerage report, one-third of the stocks in S&P BSE500 have lost more than 30 percent of their market capitalisation. Valuations of mid and small-cap stocks, which were frothy and had a premium over largecaps until last year, have now cooled off significantly due to sharp corrections. As per Bloomberg data, the BSE MidCap is currently trading at 15.4x one-year forward PE (which is lower than its three-year average of 19.7x), the BSE SmallCap at 13.2x while the BSE Sensex is trading at 16.1x PE, Prabhudas Lilladher said in a report. Experts feel that it is the right time for investors who are looking to build a long-term portfolio to invest in the broader market space. The performance of broader indices has remained subdued for about more than a year despite the benchmark indices scaling record high levels, Dinesh Rohira, CEO & Founder 5nance.com told Moneycontrol. Further, individual mid and small-cap stocks have declined far more than their fundamental outlook, and therefore, offering a perfect opportunity to build exposure in category to create wealth through value play, he said. Rohira further added that he expects the broader market to outperform in long term against headline index. Here are 10 small and mid-cap stocks collated from different experts that investors can buy for the next 5 years: Brokerage Firm: Centrum Broking Godrej Agrovet: Godrej Agrovet Ltd (GAVL) has set up processing facilities to develop a modern operating platform across key agriculture vertical. The company has leveraged its in-house R&D prowess to create strong brands along with a robust distribution network with 6,000 distributors. Varroc Engineering: Verroc Engineering designs, manufactures and supplies exterior lighting systems, plastic and polymer components, electrical-electronics components and precision metallic components to PC/CV/2W/3W and OHV OEMs. The company has a diversified geographic mix: India (34.7 percent), Europe (41.8 percent), North America (22.3 percent) and others (1.2 percent). The company has a sticky relationship with leading domestic original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like Bajaj, Honda Motors and Royal Enfield. Being supplier to JLR, Bentley and Tesla, it can capture the growth in the LED lighting segment. Its footprint covers all major passenger vehicle markets globally providing crucial diversification. Can Fin Homes: Can Fin Homes is a mid-sized housing finance company catering to low-cost housing needs in the average ticket size of Rs 14-16 lakhs. Loan book stands at Rs 18,381 crore as on March 31, 2019 with 67 percent to salaried individuals and insignificant exposure to builder loans. The business has started showing signs of improvement. We expect the loan book to steadily grow from hereon and show improvement in the asset quality along with available excess provisioning. The loan book CAGR is expected at 26 percent over FY19P-21E with gross NPAs declining to 0.4 percent to result in 1.9 percent RoA and 22.3 percent RoE by end FY21E. ICICI Securities: ICICI Securities is the largest equity broker by brokerage revenues offering a wide range of financial services including financial product distribution and investment banking to retail and institutional clients. The brokerage firm has a strong distribution network (~200 branches, 6,500+ channel partners & 3,100+ bank branches) helping noncyclical MF distribution business growing well (~27 percent of 9MFY19 revenue). ICICI Securities has a strong customer base on the back of the convenience of the 3-in-1 platform (bank-broking-DP). Strong investment banking and improving advisory services platform to aid growth in the future. KEC International (KEC): KEC, a flagship of the RPG Group, is present in the verticals of power transmission, power systems, cables, railways, telecom and water. Higher share from non-T&D (incl. SAE) businesses such as railway, civil, solar (~30 percent in FY19 vs 26 percent last year) is likely to aid margins and overall performance. The current order book of Rs 20,307 crore (1.8x FY19P revenue) provides visibility with 50 percent being global orders. Enquiries in the international markets and domestic railway segment will help sustain order book position. Brokerage Firm: Prabhudas Lilladher KEI Industries: KEI Industries (KEI) fortunes are linked to government spends in the power, housing and metro projects as well as private sector capex. It reported robust numbers with revenues growing 22.2 percent YoY and 15.8 percent QoQ. EBITDA grew 36.1 percent on a YoY basis and 16.9 percent on a QoQ basis in Q4. The management has guided 18-20 percent growth in revenues in FY20 on the back of demand from the conversion of refineries to meet BS VI norms, metro projects, distribution strengthening in power sector and state orders for underground cabling to improve overall efficiency and reduce AT&C losses. We forecast KEI revenues to grow at 16.1 percent CAGR from FY19-21. Its profit should grow at 26.7 percent CAGR over the same period on the back of strong volume growth which will result in better-fixed cost absorption strong volume growth. A richer product mix will help push EBITDAM to 10.6 percent in FY20E and further to 10.7 percent in FY21E. Mold Tek Packaging (MTEP): MTEP is among the leaders in rigid packaging in India. It revolutionised the paint industry by introducing plastic pails in lieu of metallic cans. The company also offers packaging solutions to the Food & FMCG industry which is likely to be the key growth driver going forward (expected to increase from 18 percent in FY18 to 26 percent in FY21E). The paints segment will continue to witness steady growth as new dedicated capacities for Asian Paints will go on stream. MTEP has shifted 2 machines from RAK to India and is evaluating the future of the plant in RAK. Further volume offtake from Vizag and Mysuru, higher than expected traction in edible oil/ghee segments, the addition of HUL and Hutsan in the ice cream segment and new clients in other F&F segments provide visibility for 20 percent volume growth in FY20E and sustenance thereafter. Gokaldas Exports: GEXP is one of the largest exporters of garments from India, with exports contributing to more than 80 percent of their revenues. Lack of focus on improving efficiency, reducing wastages and lead time and developing customer relations led to sub-optimal performance leading to losses in most of the years. During FY19, the top line grew 13.8 percent to Rs 11,745 million on back of improvement in efficiencies, the addition of new clients (seven clients added) and increased wallet share from existing customers. According to our rough cut estimates, the revenue is expected to grow at 18.1 percent CAGR over FY19-21E, EBITDA at 51.1 percent CAGR and PAT is likely to grow at 66.3 percent CAGR. Analyst: Jayant Manglik, President - Retail Distribution, Religare Broking Ltd Cummins India: Cummins is a leading manufacturer of engines and other power generation products. The company has reported strong growth in the domestic market in recent quarters. Further, a pick-up in demand in all infrastructure segments (construction, water well), increasing penetration in rail as well as marine and high demand from data centres will drive the growth in the domestic market. Further, investments in product enhancements (e.g. new power train solutions) and strengthening market share are the key growth triggers. On the profitability front, stability in commodity prices, as well as value engineering/value-added products, shall lead to an improvement in margins. Indraprastha Gas: We expect IGLs revenue and PAT to grow at a healthy pace, led by network expansion, increasing conversion to CNG and economic benefits of CNG/PNG vs auto fuels. IGL also stands to benefit from an increase in the award of geographical areas for gas distribution and extension of market exclusivity for city gas distributors. Further, the recent allocation of distribution licenses in three areas in 10th bidding round to IGL would also aid future growth. Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on Moneycontrol.com are their own and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. The story has been updated with the latest data for BSE Midcap and BSE Smallcap indices. Representative image Medikabazaar, an online B2B platform for medical supplies, on May 28 said it plans to raise Rs 200 crore in Series B funding from venture capital investors in Japan, Belgium and Germany. This includes existing investors such as Delhi-based venture capital fund HealthQuad, Rebright Partners, Japan's Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance's venture capital arm, Belgium-based Kois Invest, Medikabazaar said in a statement. The funds will be used for the expansion of the company's fulfilment centres, strengthening the technology infrastructure, making last-mile delivery more efficient and investing in logistics automation, it added. A significant portion of the funds will go towards further penetrating tier-III and IV cities, as well as potential acquisitions for the company, the statement said. "We are in talks with our existing investors as well as a clutch of investors based in Japan, Germany and Belgium to raise Rs 200 crore as part of our next fund round," Medikabazaar founder and Chief Executive Officer Vivek Tiwari said. This is being done as part of the company's growth and expansion plans to clock in $100 million in revenues in the financial year 2019-20, he added. India is the fourth-largest healthcare provider market in Asia. However, it is also fragmented and unorganised to a large extent, Tiwari said. "At Medikabazaar, we are aiming to contribute significantly towards organising this market and are targeting 10 per cent of the organised market share by the end of the next five years," he added. Medikabazaar currently has 12 fulfilment centres across the country with warehouses which function as distribution hubs. The company plans to increase this number substantially over the next two financial years, Tiwari said. "Our focus has and will continue to be on maximising efficiencies in procurement and inventory management by excelling in last-mile, on-time deliveries," he added. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Highlights - Volume growth will be critical to reviving revenue- Intensifying competition remains a key threat - Investors should take advantage of the price correction ------------------------------------------------- Page Industries reported a weak set of numbers for the quarter gone by, largely because of weak offtake by distributors/retailers, higher employee headcount and an increase in dealer incentives. A combination of improved geographical coverage, new product variants, revival of volumes and higher garment capacities could help the company get its mojo back. Page has the exclusive right to manufacture, distribute and sell innerwear- cum-leisurewear products under the 'Jockey' brand in India, Sri Lanka, Qatar, Oman, Bangladesh, Nepal and the UAE. It is also a licensed retailer of 'Speedo' swimwear products and accessories in India and Sri Lanka. Q4 FY19 review Positives - Gross margin expanded due to stable yarn prices Negatives - Sales volume growth was only 1 percent year-on-year, whereas realisations were lower by 1.5 percent - Employee costs and other expenses, as percentage of sales, rose noticeably year-on-year - Lack of operating leverage and a higher tax rate caused bottom line margin to contract Observations Capacity expansion In the next five financial years, Page's garment manufacturing capacity is slated to double from the current 260 million pieces per annum. While a new garment plant in Karnataka is likely to be commissioned in Q3 FY20, another one in Madhya Pradesh will be functional by Q4 FY21. Network augmentation As on March 31, Page's EBO (exclusive brand outlet) count stood at 620 and their contribution to yearly turnover was 16 percent. The objective is to increase the number of EBOs to 1,000 by FY21-end. The company's MBO (multi-brand outlet) count, totaling over 50,000 as of FY19-end, is estimated to grow on the back of foray into new markets. New products The headroom for growth in kidswear is significant, given the large population in India. Until now, Page has been primarily focussed on innerwear offerings within this segment. Going forward, products in the outerwear category may gain momentum. Furthermore, athleisure and activewear products, which are high-margin by nature, would be high on the priority list in terms of launches. The company's market share in the menswear segment is close to 20 percent. This, in itself, is a big positive worth capitalising on, since new products in the portfolio would already have a steady base of prospective buyers. Going online Considering the growing popularity of e-commerce portals and convenience shopping, the proportion of online sales to total revenue is anticipated to increase from 4 percent in FY19. Outlook The past Historically, most of Page's top-line growth was value-driven on account of emphasis towards premium product variants. This was mainly because of Jockey's popularity among buyers. Peers upping the ante Intensifying competition from high-value brands of retailers such as Arvind Fashions and Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail would necessitate keeping prices in check. Therefore, volume growth -- and not value growth -- will become a crucial factor to monitor from now on. It also remains to be seen if the company can maintain its target of keeping margins in the range of 21-22 percent. Trade not back on track Subdued offtake from trade channels in the aftermath of the ongoing liquidity crunch is a challenge that could continue for at least a couple of quarters. Hence, it could be hard to achieve the desired 20 percent top-line growth target in FY20. What should investors do? An inability to sustainably deliver healthy volume-led growth, coupled with lack of market share gains in the smaller segments (womenswear, girls wear) in recent months, resulted in Page's de-rating. After a weak Q4 show, the stock corrected sharply and is close to its 52-week low. At 41.6 times its FY21 projected earnings, Page continues to remain an expensive pick. The ongoing consumption downcycle provides a valuable entry opportunity in beaten-down stocks. In our view, most of the downside seems to be factored in. A change in product mix, gradual regularisation of trade sentiment, higher sale volumes (by way of enhanced capacities), large addressable audience (roughly 130 million consumers) and strong fundamentals should work in favour of the company in the long run. Investors should, therefore, not overlook Page in spite of its heady valuation multiples. Having said that, the prospect of a re-rating anytime soon is unlikely and its rich valuation leaves no room to falter on volume growth and margins. Follow @krishnakarwa152 For more research articles, visit our Moneycontrol Research page Moneycontrol Research analysts do not hold positions in the companies discussed here Patanjali (Image: Facebook) Baba Ramdev-led Patanjali Ayurved has launched toned milk and table butter in some parts of the country, a move that will give competition to Amul and Mother Dairy. The new product will available from May 28 in the National Capital Region (NCR), Rajasthan, some parts of Haryana and Maharashtra. At Rs 40 per litre, Patanjalis new offering is about Rs 4 cheaper than that of its competitors. Amul and Mother Dairy each recently hiked prices by Rs 2 per litre citing higher procurement costs. The company will source the milk directly from farmers and process it at its plants in Meerut in Uttar Pradesh, Jaipur in Rajasthan, and Nevasa in Maharastra. We transfer money directly into the bank accounts of over 15,000 farmers, Ramdev said, as quoted by ANI. Currently the fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) company is procuring 4 lakh litres of milk a day and looking to scale it to 10 lakh litres. Patanjali entered the dairy segment in September 2018 with the launch of packaged cow milk, which is available in over 150,000 outlets in the NCR. Ramdev also said that Patanjalis products in the dairy segment, such as cow milk paneer, curd, buttermilk and lassi have performed well in the market. The company is also considering launching herbal milk and a full-cream variant of the cow milk, Ramdev said. Mumbai-based Duville Estates has forayed into real estate business and is developing three housing projects in Pune with an investment of Rs 500 crore. Duville Estates is a privately held company of DBC group, owned by Behram Dubash. The group is engaged in many businesses including shipping. It has now entered real estate business to monetise land parcels bought at historical cost. "We are developing three housing projects, comprising 1,150 units, in the first phase of this 31-acre township project 'Riverdale'. This is located on the banks of the Mula Mutha River in Kharadi, Pune," Duville Estates Director Tushad Dubash told PTI. The first project 'Riverdale Heights', comprising 580 units, is expected to be delivered this year, he said, adding that about 80 percent of flats have already been sold. "We have launched two more projects Riverdale Residences and Riverdale Suites comprising 300 units and 270 units, respectively. Both these projects will be completed by 2021," Dubash said. Asked about the investment, he said, "land we already own at a historical price, we will be spending about Rs 500 crore on construction of these three projects." The investment is being funded through internal accruals, advances from customers and construction finance. Duville Estates is selling flats in these three projects at around Rs 8,000 per sq ft. The prices are in the range of Rs 35 lakh to Rs 1.7 crore. The township has got Gold Certificate from Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and all the three projects are registered with regulatory body RERA. Out of 31 acres, the company has so far utilised around 9 acres and has scope to launch more projects in 12 acres with around 12-14 lakh sq ft saleable area. Dubash said the company is in planning stage for future projects in this township. On the overall housing market, he said the demand is picking up gradually. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More State-run Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd is eyeing to produce 6.4 million tonne of liquid steel and 5.8 million tonne of saleable metal in the financial year 2019-20, a company official said. The public sector undertaking (PSU) will be signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in this regard, with its administrative ministry -- Ministry of Steel -- likely by the first week of June, the official said. "The MoU is in the final stages and is expected to be signed next week or so. The target for liquid steel and saleable steel for financial year 2019-20 would be around 6.4 million tonne (MT) and 5.8 MT, respectively," the official said. For the year 2018-19, Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (RINL) had a target to produce 6.1 MT of liquid metal but could only produce around 5.5 MT. The state-run firm produced 5 MT of saleable steel against the target of 5.5 MT. The pact will be signed between Secretary, Ministry of Steel, Binoy Kumar and RINL Chairman and Managing Director P K Rath. Every PSU on an annual basis sets targets for the fiscal and enters into a pact with the concerned administrative ministry in this regard. For the current fiscal, RINL is targeting a turnover of Rs 25,000 crore compared to Rs 20,844 crore in 2018-19, its CMD had last month said. RINL, corporate entity of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, produces special steel, including wire rod coils, rounds and billets of different grade and dimensions. Myth 2: If you try harder, you can make your symptoms go away | Mental illnesses cant be willed away. And for those who are experiencing them, pushing this approach can be very defeating, Emily Bulthuis, a therapist at Park Nicollet said as quoted by HealthPartners. (Representative image) Now there's a social media app that allows users to discuss and debate on spiritual issues with hundreds of like-minded members on its platform. Christened Rgyan, its users can share pictures and videos of temples and gods, participate in polls on social and spiritual issues, and read about the thousands of temples across the country. The idea to launch this app came to Debjit Patra while he was having lunch at a restaurant in Haridwar. A physics scholar and an army veteran, Patra noticed a picture consisting around 137 renowned sages of the country at the restaurant. He was mesmerized by the sight and thought about the gap that exists between today's generation and the rich spiritual heritage of the country. "Religion is traded in India aggressively but there wasn't any platform which aggregated the knowledge of religion and the gods in our country. This thought led to the launch of Rgyan," Patra, co-founder of the app, told Moneycontrol. He discussed the idea with Devendar Agarwal, an old friend and a former Flipkart executive and the two got ready to launch the platform. Rgyan began with content that would tell individuals about the methods to perform different rituals besides the knowledge of vedas. Now it has expanded into a social networking site wherein users can share photos, videos, GIFs or their thoughts on a given spiritual topic. They can discover posts based on gods, temples, festivals, rituals, vrat kathas etc. It also has an e-commerce vertical through which it sells spiritual products. It claims to be selling products worth Rs 1 lakh on a monthly basis with an average ticket size of Rs 150. Once the customer clicks on the buy button, she gets transferred to partner e-commerce sites such as Amazon to complete the deal. The platform also connects users with astrologers who can counsel them online or offline. Overall the site claims to be generating a footfall of half a million every month. The founders have already invested Rs 1.5 crore in the company and are in talks with external investors to raise $2 million. The funds will be utilised to strengthen technology support. Rgyan is not the only startup dealing in the spiritual space. While not many are in the social media space, with expanding technology, more and more digital companies such as Kalpnik and 27 Mantraa are offering something or the other to the spiritual people of India. While Kalpnik offers users a virtual tour of spiritual destinations, 27 Mantraa offers a concierge, pooja services as well as a store for all worship related products. The global banking sector saw its largest data leak in 2008 after French-Italian whistle-blower Herve Falciani released names and details of more than 130,000 suspected tax evaders with bank accounts in HSBC Geneva. Falciani, who worked in HSBC's IT division, fled while under investigation in Switzerland, to France and later Spain. More than 1,195 of those names were Indians many notable businessmen and politicians included, with balance totalling Rs 25,420 crore, a three-month-long global project between Washington-based International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), Paris-based Le Monde newspaper and The Indian Express revealed. Recent Development In the most recent development, many Indian on the list fearing legal fallout have submitted relevant passports to Swiss authorities in a bid to establish their non-resident Indian (NRI) status for the period under consideration, as per a report in The Economic Times. The clincher here is that NRI earnings are not taxable in India hence the charge of tax evasion would not hold water, and many are hence trying to prove they stayed out of India for over 182 days. Another argument is the absence of pending litigation, the paper stated. The other argument of it being 'stolen data', has been circumvented as India has not specified a source for the information and Switzerland's Federal Supreme Court noted this while allowing tax authorities to turn over bank account details of two Indian citizens who had fought the release on the grounds of it being stolen data. While the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (FTA) has pro tem refrained from disclosing names of at least three individuals; bank account statements and relating documents will be shared with the Indian government for accounts in existence post-April 01, 2011, the ET report added. As per the ruling, while account-holders will be notified for consent before information is shared, details of those who do not consent is also sent after being recorded in the countrys official gazette; and 11 such names have already been recorded. Information sharing as part of the Indo-Swiss treaty is effective from 2011 and Swiss authorities are currently questioning residency status only for the relevant period. The revelation of the list had triggered a directive from the Supreme Court, post which the Narendra Modi government had on May 27, 2015, constituted a special investigative team (SIT) to deepen the probe. The SIT Chairman MB Shah had then said that action would be taken after facts were verified. Shiromani Akali Dal MP from Bathinda, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, on Tuesday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to strongly take up with his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan the issue of partial demolition of Guru Nanak Palace in Pakistan's Punjab province. The centuries-old palace was partially demolished by a group of vandals who also sold its precious windows and doors in Pakistan's Punjab province. Harsimrat said Sikhs are deeply anguished over the incident and she joins the community in condemning the act. "I join the #Sikh community in condemning the demolition of historical #GuruNanakPalace in #Pakistan's #Punjab province by some vandals in connivance with Auqaf authorities. As #Sikhs are deeply anguished, I urge @narendramodi ji to strongly take it up with Pak PM @ImranKhanPTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf), she tweeted. The walls of the four-storey building had pictures of Sikh founder Guru Nanak as well as of various Hindu rulers. The "Palace of Baba Guru Nanak", said to have been built over four centuries ago, was frequented by a number of Sikhs from across the world including India, a report in Pakistan media said. The group of locals not only partially demolished the structure allegedly with connivance of auqaf department officials but also sold its precious windows, doors and ventilators, the report said. File image The ambitious Kartarpur corridor linking Pakistan's Gurudwara Darbar Sahib with India's Dera Baba Nanak shrine has hit a roadblock after the technical experts from both the countries could not find a consensus on building a bridge over the Ravi's floodplain, a media report said on Tuesday. The experts from Pakistan and India on Monday held a meeting to discuss the modalities for the corridor at the Kartarpur Zero Point. The Express Tribune reported that the meeting lasted only one hour during which the representatives of both the sides exchanged details of the construction work. India wants the construction of a kilometer-long bridge on the Ravi river while Pakistan suggested the need to construct a road, it said. The Indian officials objected to the road, citing the possibility of floods in the river. However, the Pakistani officials said that a dam could be built around the road and the inclination of the road could be kept high to avoid flood waters, the report said. The two countries also could not agree on the date for the next meeting. The group from the Indian side had officials from the Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, Land Ports Authority of India, National Highways Authority of India, among others. The Pakistani side was represented by the officials of Federal Investigation Agency, customs, construction, Pakistan Rangers Punjab and Survey of Pakistan. Earlier in April, technical experts and foreign ministry officials from both the sides participated in the talks held at the same venue. In the March meeting, the two sides decided to present surveys and maps for border fencing and developmental work on the Dera Baba Nanak-Kartarpur Sahib Corridor to their respective governments. In November 2018, India and Pakistan agreed to set up a border crossing linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak - to Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. Pakistan has said that the work on the corridor will be completed before the 550th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak in November this year. The Kartarpur corridor is expected to provide visa-free access to Indian Sikh pilgrims to the Gurdwara in Kartarpur Sahib a small town in Narowal, four kilometres from the Pakistan-India border, where Sikhism founder Baba Guru Nanak spent the last 18 years of his life. Pakistan will build the corridor from the Indian border to the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, while the other part from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur up to the border will be constructed by India. Pakistan has tried to downplay India's decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modi's swearing-in on Thursday, saying the Indian Prime Minister's "internal politics" does not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a member of the regional grouping. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Pakistan Prime Minister Khan to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. "His (Prime Minister Modi's) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon)," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. "India's internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation," he said. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in held on May 26 in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Khan after he won the general election last year and wrote a letter as well. Prime Minister Khan, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. "Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Mr Modi as a goodwill gesture," the Pakistani foreign minister said. "Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region... the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. "It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tension," Qureshi said. Prime Minister Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. Congress chief Rahul Gandhi had a series of visitors on Tuesday with his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as well as Rajasthan's ruling duo Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot calling on him amid rumblings of discontent in the state and his insistence on quitting. Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Pilot met Gandhi at his residence here followed by Chief Minister Gehlot. Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi was present during the discussions, party insiders said. The party's chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala and general secretary K C Venugopal also met the party president at his Tughlaq Lane home. It is not immediately known what transpired at the meetings. All senior leaders since Saturday have been trying to convince Rahul Gandhi to take back his resignation, but he seems to be adamant about going ahead with his decision to step down as party president. Faced with a colossal electoral defeat, the Congress has been riven by internal turmoil. As the party grapples with a severe existential crisis, its governments in both Karnataka and Rajasthan teeter on the brink with reports suggesting the BJP may try to wrest power in both states. The Congress drew a blank in Rajasthan as the NDA won all 25 Lok Sabha seats. In Karnataka, where it formed a government with the JD(S) in May last year, the Congress managed to win only one Lok Sabha seat out of 28. On Monday, Rahul Gandhi cancelled all his appointments for the day and Gehlot could not meet him. After Rahul Gandhi gave Gehlot a tongue lashing for putting his son above the party at a CWC meeting on Saturday, two days after the Lok Sabha votes were counted, several Rajasthan ministers and MLAs are demanding that accountability be fixed and action taken for the Lok Sabha poll debacle. According to some leaders who attended the Congress Working Committee meeting, Gandhi did a lot of "plain-speaking" in his surgical analysis of the role of several party leaders while himself offering to quit as the party president. Ticking-off Gehlot for camping in Jodhpur for his son Vaibhav's election, Gandhi said the chief minister spent days campaigning extensively for his son in Jodhpur and neglected the rest of the state. The CWC meeting was held in the backdrop of the Congress winning just 52 Lok Sabha seats and drawing a nought in 18 states and Union Territories. Gandhi himself lost from the family bastion of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, though he won from Wayanad in Kerala. On May 23, Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) supremo Naveen Patnaik managed to retain the state for the fifth straight term. That in itself is no mean feat, but it is especially noteworthy this time around since the Assembly and general election held simultaneously in the state were considered to be the toughest that Patnaik had ever faced. Patnaik became the CM for the first time in 2000, and had been in alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for around a decade till 2009, when he decided to go it alone. The Odisha satrap had won handsomely during the 2009 polls, drubbing the BJP and pushing it to a third position. Also Read | Naveen Patnaik tells newly elected BJD MPs to demand for special category status Patnaik repeated his performance in 2014, winning 20 of the state's 21 Lok Sabha seats and 117 of the state's 147 assembly seats. Five years on, Patnaik has managed to retain his hold over the coastal state by winning 112 seats, pushing the BJP to a distant second at 23. Congress, which had been the Opposition party in the state, managed to win only nine seats this time. It was a win-win situation for the BJP and the BJD as far as Lok Sabha seats are concerned. While the BJD won 12 Parliamentary seats, BJP edged closer to the regional party by winning eight seats. For the BJP, this was a significant gain from the one seat that it won in 2014. Overall, however, observers have noted that it was a huge victory for Patnaik, whose state was being eyed by the BJP to make inroads. While the BJP has managed to gain in the state, it was far from its intended 'Mission 120' target in the Assembly polls, and could not manage a "Tripura-like sweep" in Odisha, as it had projected. Introspection after Panchayat polls Observers have noted that the BJP's confidence of winning big even forming its own government in the state came after it won 306 of the 853 zilla parishad seats in the 2017 Panchayat polls in Odisha. BJD had managed to retain its hold by winning 460 seats, but it had been reduced to that number from 651 in 2012. The Congress, meanwhile, was a distant third at 66 seats. It was then that alarm bells started ringing for Patnaik, who reportedly stated he was unhappy with the legislators whose Assembly segments had performed poorly during the local body polls. Also Read | Naveen Patnaik: Defying Modi wave, Odisha's 'Mr Clean' wins 5th straight term "I advise you to take this signal seriously as a wake-up call and get reconnected to the people and workers at the grassroots level," Patnaik had told party workers. While BJP was busy building its grassroots cadre and strengthening its network, Patnaik bolstered his social media presence to reach out to the urban, young voters. Patnaik's Twitter and Facebook pages saw a stream of videos with Patnaik discussing the central government's apathy towards the state. The CM also used social media to quell rumours of his ill-health, releasing a video that showed his exercise regimen. Focus on schemes At the same time, BJD was also firming up Patnaik's mass appeal by highlighting the existing schemes and announcing new ones. In December, for instance, Patnaik rolled out the Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) scheme for farmers. KALIA was the biggest such cash transfer scheme aiming to cover over 30 lakh small and marginal farmers of the state. Also Read | Odisha Assembly Polls 2019: CM for 19 years, Naveen Patnaik looks to nip BJP's ambitions in the bud In addition to that, the BJD cadre was also busy reaching out to those who had benefited from Patnaik's earlier schemes in the state. This included his flagship 'Mission Shakti' campaign, which included establishing a network of self-help groups (SHGs) across Odisha, particularly focusing on the state's rural areas. On March 10, Patnaik had announced that his party would reserve 33 percent seats for women in Lok Sabha polls, a move that was seen by experts as aimed towards Patnaik's strong women voter base. Reserved constituencies It has often been said that the politics in Odisha does not revolve around caste or communal lines. However, the state still has 25 Scheduled Caste (SC) seats and 34 Scheduled Tribe (ST) seats that can decide who wins or loses the election. BJD won in 22 of the 25 SC constituencies, and romped home in 25 of the 34 ST seats. These seats are spread over coastal, central and western Odisha. Observers have noted that the BJD's gain in coastal Odisha, where the fight had always been between BJD and the Congress, was due to the Grand Old Party's dismal performance. This also allowed the BJP to gain in the region. Also Read | Ahead of Lok Sabha polls, here's why 33% reservation for women is a masterstroke from Naveen Patnaik Reports have suggested that while BJD won big in the assembly polls, the BJP's scale-up in Lok Sabha seats might be a hint of bother for Patnaik. Speculation is rife that this might be 73-year-old Patnaik's last election. If true, that would make the Odisha satrap one of those rare politicians to have never lost an election. On May 23, India was waiting with baited breath for their prime minister to be announced. But they didn't have to wait long it was clear by late afternoon that Narendra Modi was making a comeback, and how. In the evening, PM Modi came to the BJP headquarters with party chief Amit Shah to celebrate the thumping victory. It was raining in New Delhi, which many consider a lucky omen, and karyakartas left no stone unturned in decorating the party headquarters for a royal welcome. Rose petals were showered on the duo, and chants of 'Modi, Modi' and 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' filled the air. But let's try and see what it is that makes PM Modi so endearing for the masses in this country. Early Days Narendra Modis journey began in the bylanes of Vadnagar, a small and nondescript town in North Gujarats Mehsana district. Born on September 17, 1950, he was the third of the six children born to Damodardas Modi and Hiraba Modi. Belonging to a modest family, Modi often used to lend a helping hand to his father, who used to sell tea at a small stall set up at the local railway station. At a very young age, Modi was inclined to the idea of renunciation and asceticism. He started immersing himself in the works of Swami Vivekananda. As a young boy, he yearned to join the Indian Army, but fate had different plans for him. At 17, Modi left his house to travel across India. He came back after two years, and soon joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Ahmedabad. It was here when he met his mentor Laxmanrao Inamdar, also known as Vakil Saheb. In 1972, Modi was anointed as a pracharak, dedicating his full time to the RSS, following a rigorous disciplined routine. In 1973, resistance movements were taking shape in Gujarat against the Indira Gandhi government at the Centre. Soon, these protests gained widespread support and came to be known as the Navnirman Movement. The movement was further strengthened when it gained the support of Jayparakash Narayan. Narendra Modi as a part of the Anti-Emergency movement. (Image: Twitter) In 1975, when Indira Gandhi proclaimed nationwide Emergency, Modi was at the core of the resistance movement. He was then the General Secretary of the Gujarat Lok Sangharsh Samiti (GLSS). In 1977, Congress was routed and the Jan Sangh formed the government at the Centre. In the 80s, Narendra Modi was actively traversing through the length and breadth of Gujarat, studying the masses and actively involved with the RSS. In 1987, senior leaders of the newly-formed BJP inducted Modi into the party, thus beginning a new chapter in his life. Rise of Narendra Modi In 1995, Modi was made secretary of the BJP, and three years later, he was promoted to General Secretary. In October 2001, Modi replaced sitting Gujarat chief minister Keshubhai Patel, who was heavily criticized for his complacency during the Bhuj earthquake in which 20,000 people lost their lives. In 2002, he won the assembly elections from Maninagar and was appointed as the chief minister. Thus began a political career full of crests and troughs as Gujarat was ravaged by riots in 2002. Modi fought elections on the poll planks of development and infrastructure, emerging victorious three times in a row. Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi. (Image: Reuters) An excellent orator, Modi was chosen by the BJP to campaign for the party for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Such was the aura of his personality and the power of his words, that the people were awestruck by the leader, a phenomenon often referred to as the Modi wave in political parlance. Add to that the numerous corruption charges and anti-incumbency against the Congress government, the BJP came to power with a landslide majority, and Narendra Modi became Prime Minister. Now was the time when the Modi-led government had to go through the litmus test. Premiership The five years of the Modi government have been marked by excessive policy making and a multitude of reforms. One such was demonetization a rather radical step to deal with the menace of black money in the Indian economy. The exercise has had critics and appraisers both, the former in a larger number. Another such reform was unifying all taxes under five tax slabs also known as Goods and Services Tax (GST). The Opposition heavily castigated this move, saying it adversely affected MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises). PM Modi takes a strong stance on issues, which takes him on the wrong side of his adversaries, and yet highlights his decisiveness. Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (Image Reuters) On the national security front, PM Modi came down heavily on neighbouring state Pakistan for harbouring Jihadist groups. He conducted unprecedented military operations, such as the Surgical Strike (on the intervening night of September 29-30 in 2016; in response to the Army base attack in Uri) and the Balakot Air Strike (during wee hours on February 26, 2019; in response to the Pulwama terror attack). His show of muscle power was an affirmation of Indias strong stance against terrorism for many international organisations. Besides, Narendra Modi has also taken the foreign stage by storm. PM Modi has been active in re-energising Indias relations with the US, China, Europe and Central Asian Countries. Since 2014, Modi travelled to around 92 countries, embarking on a journey to strengthen diplomatic relations and pinning India on the map of the world. This time around, PM Modi assumed himself to be a champion against corruption and thus wore an epithet of 'Chowkidar', which roughly translates to a guard. Wherever he used to go and campaign, people used to chant the mantra 'Main Bhi Chowkidar'. Maybe, it is this relatability of a small-town nobody, manifesting his will and determination to serve the people, and accomplishing it, that makes him so endearing, almost aspirational. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on May 23 registered a massive victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha election, winning over 350 seats to retain power. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) itself won over 300 seats its highest tally ever. Even before Narendra Modi is sworn in as the Prime Minister for the second term on May 30, the BJP has already begun preparations for the imminent Legislative Assembly elections in Haryana, Jharkhand and Maharashtra. State elections are also expected to be held in Jammu and Kashmir, which is currently under Presidents Rule. The three states, currently governed by BJP and its allies, are expected to head for polls in October this year upon completion of its Assembly terms. The Lok Sabha election results are expected to have a huge bearing on the state polls just as they did in 2014. In 2014, the BJP had managed to win the three states riding on the Modi wave. How NDA crushed the Opposition in these states In Maharashtra, the BJP and its ally Shiv Sena won 23 and 18 seats, respectively. The Indian National Congress and Sharad Pawars Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) won one and four seats, respectively. All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) managed to win Aurangabad while Congress-supported Independent candidate Navnit Ravi Rana won the Amravati. Maharashtra has a total of 48 parliamentary constituencies. The NDA also increased its vote share at the expense of the UPA. Maharashtra Data analysis suggests that Prakash Ambedkars Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) managed to pick up a significant vote share in some crucial seats. This hurt the UPAs chances. UPA had unsuccessfully tried to get VBA on board the alliance. Had the alliance materialised, the Opposition would have won seven more seats. Also read: Opinion | Why Maharashtras politicians are still in campaign mode The saffron party swept the state of Haryana, winning all of the 10 seats there. BJPs vote share significantly increased as compared to 2014. A closer look at the numbers shows that the BJPs sweep was not at the expense of the Congress, but at the expense of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD). Here, even if the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) had allied with the Congress, the Opposition could have only won the Rohtak seat. Haryana In Jharkhand, the NDA won 12 out of the states 14 seats. The BJP won 11 while the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) won one. Congress and its ally Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) managed to win one each. Jharkhand How the alliances stack up As things stand, the Congress and the NCP are likely to remain in an alliance for the state polls. It remains to be seen if the UPA tries to get the VBA on board, fearing a split Opposition voter base. The BJP and the Shiv Sena had made it clear in the run-up to the general election that they will contest together in the Vidhan Sabha polls too. They are likely to have the continued support of the Republican Party of India (Athawale) (RPI-A). In Haryana, Congress and the JJP had fought separately. Here too, it remains unclear if they would have a rethink on an alliance. Congress is expected to remain in an alliance with JMM and the Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) (JVM) in Jharkhand. Also read: What the result means for BJP's allies What could change going forward? NDAs performance in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan has once again demonstrated that voting pattern differs at different levels state and the Centre. Congress had wrested these states from the BJP in December 2018. Therefore, local anti-incumbency and regional factors and issues could impact what will be on voters mind in October. Also read: It's a bumpy road ahead for regional parties Popularity levels of various chief ministers and the prime minister have been in different bands, data from opinion surveys suggest. This means, people could vote differently when PM Modi is not on the ballot. In 2014, when the BJP formed governments in these three states, it was not only riding the Modi wave, but also challenging the incumbent. Now, the party is defending. Earlier, Moneycontrol had analysed how the BJPs election machinery had been better while challenging, than defending in the last five years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday called on former president and veteran Congress leader Pranab Mukherjee to seek his blessings. Modi, who will take oath as the prime minister for the second time on Thursday, described the former president as a "statesman". "Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation," Modi tweeted, posting pictures with Mukherjee. "Sought his blessings during our meeting today," he added. Mukherjee was conferred with the Bharat Ratna on the recommendation of the Modi-led government in January. Representative Image Anand Kochukudy The decimation of Indias Left parties, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Communist Party of India, is one of the biggest stories of the 2019 general elections. The Left drew a blank in its former bastions in West Bengal and Tripura, and got reduced to a single seat in Kerala. Until a decade ago, the Left Front was in power in three states -- West Bengal, Tripura and Kerala. Since then, it has seen a huge erosion of its base and has been ousted from West Bengal and Tripura. The Left was a force to reckon with in the past when its leader A K Gopalan held the position of the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament during the first two terms of Jawaharlal Nehru as Prime Minister. Post the split in the party in 1964, the Left parties also played a major role in uniting the opposition during the internal Emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi in the 1970s. In the late eighties, when the Rajiv Gandhi government was rocked by the Bofors scandal, it was once again the Left parties that pulled their weight behind Vishwanath Pratap Singh to oust Gandhi and form an alternative government. In 1996, a hung verdict nearly propelled then West Bengal Left Front Chief Minister Jyoti Basu to premiership. But this was vetoed by his party in what would later be described as a Himalayan blunder. Communist Party of India stalwart Indrajit Gupta served as the Union home minister during the premierships of H D Deve Gowda and Inder Kumar Gujral. The Left continued to influence national politics through the Atal Bihari Vajpayee days in the late nineties and was at the vanguard of providing a national alternative in 2004 when it played a key role in installing a Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. 2004 was also its finest hour in Indian politics with the Left parties combining to win as many as 60 seats and massively influencing central government policies. Four years later, the Left withdrew its support to the government on the issue of the Indo-US nuclear deal in what would prove to be yet another Himalayan blunder for the party. The Left parties have been in terminal decline ever since and never recovered from the jolt they suffered in the elections that followed. The Left Front lost power in West Bengal in 2011 and has been decimated in the 2019 elections in Bengal, with its vote share plummeting to a historic low of 4 percent. Its a far cry from 1957 when the undivided CPI won the first elections for Kerala in 1957. It was only the second instance of a democratically-elected Communist government in the world. The Left front has formed governments in the state every alternate election over the past 40 years, and remains in power even now under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. However, this time it won a grand total of one Parliamentary seat out of the 20 from the state. This disastrous showing saw many detractors raising questions on the relevance of Indias Left parties, with Vijayan himself coming under fire. The Kerala unit of the CPI (M) has virtually called the shots in decision-making in the party's national affairs following its weakening elsewhere. The Vijayan government has sworn by an alternate welfarist "Kerala model" to counter the growth of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in its backyard. While the Kerala model has won plaudits from across the world, the CPI (M) has been facing the heat for its brand of politics in the state. For instance, in the run-up to the elections, the political murder of two Youth Congress workers turned public opinion massively against the communist parties. In parts of northern Kerala, where it has enjoyed hegemony, the CPI (M) has often resorted to less than democratic means to retain its hold. This culture of political violence is regarded as one of the major factors behind its loss of power in West Bengal, where the Left Front ruled uninterrupted for 34 years till 2011. In Kerala, the violence has been restricted to the state's northern parts where the party enjoys massive clout. While it officially disapproves and condemns such acts, its leaders, including Vijayan himself, have often sent mixed signals. This political culture is bred in colleges where the Left parties enjoy hegemony, political observers say. Apart from political violence, the party has faced accusations of bogus voting in many of its strongholds. Such practices have allegedly been employed for a long time till webcasts of polling booths in sensitive areas finally caught some in the act. Another reason for the setback to the Left Front in Kerala is the stand it took in the matter of the entry of menstruating women in the Sabarimala temple. A Supreme Court of India verdict last year lifted the traditional ban. While Vijayan won the admiration of avowed secular people in Kerala for taking a strident position to implement the court order in toto, following the electoral drubbing, he is likely to face criticism from even within the party for his lack of flexibility and tact in implementing the verdict. Facing an existential crisis, it is incumbent on the Left's Kerala unit to reinvent itself to remain relevant at the national level, and not just in the state. (Kochukudy is is a Delhi-based academic and political commentator. Views expressed are personal.) Amar Devulapalli The favourite line of every politician who lose elections at some point in their life is winning and losing are part of politics. Former chief minister of Andhra Pradesh (AP) and one of the most experienced politicians of the country, Nara Chandrababu Naidu can also try to seek solace in this line after his partys dismal performance in the state and general elections. But this loss is not an ordinary one as it has raised questions on not just his future but also that of his partys. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP), under Naidus leadership, won 23 Assembly seats out of 175 and just 3 Parliament seats out of 25. The YSR Congress Party led by Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy won an overwhelming more than 150 seats to march into power while also bagging an impressive 22 Lok Sabha seats. The TDP, founded in 1982, under unusual circumstances had only two supreme leaders during its 37-year run. The party was founded by one of the most loved actors of South Indian cinema, N T Rama Rao (NTR). He occupied the Chief Ministers chair in less than a year after entering politics, decimating the Congress with his Telugu pride slogan. While in power, there was an internal coup which led to his ouster from chief ministership in 1984. But he regained power within a few months. In the next elections, the TDP had to face a rout. In 1994, NTR took oath as CM for the third time while he was the president of the party. This was also the beginning of the end of a chapter in the history of the party as his son-in-law, Chandrababu Naidu overthrew him and took over the reins of the party in less than a year. Since then, the party has been under the complete control of Naidu. It is an irony that Naidu, who was also sworn-in as CM of AP three times -- two times in a united AP and once in the newly bifurcated state -- like NTR, is now facing existential issues. The 69-year old Naidu never had to taste defeat on this scale. If his sons and his performance has to be assessed, then it is nothing less than shocking. For 30 years, Naidu has been contesting from Kuppam Assembly constituency successfully, winning one election after the other with huge margins. Perhaps, for the first time, Naidu was seen trailing in the initial rounds. One would be mistaken in thinking this is the result of a fierce opponent or well-planned strategy of the YSRCP. A former IAS officer, who took on Naidu on YSRCP ticket, was absent during the entire period of campaigning and did not even step into the constituency as he was hospitalised due to ill health. The opposition campaign was lacklustre. Even then, Naidu could win with a majority of 29,000 votes, a far cry from the margins he registered earlier. His son, Nara Lokesh, who was a minister in Naidus Cabinet, lost his first election in the Amaravati capital area, a prestigious project of the TDP government. Naidu tried to project him as his heir, but the defeat comes as a setback. This has cast a doubt on his capacity to lead the party and acceptance among the cadre in future. The 36-year old is already mocked on social media for slip-ups and factual errors. That apart, he has been accused of large-scale corruption by opposition party leaders. Naidus position as the undisputed leader of the party has somewhat weakened after the TDP lost to the YSRCP by a huge difference of about 10 percent vote share. Most of his Cabinet ministers and young successors faced humiliating defeats in their respective seats. Who has to take the blame? Naidu, of course. In previous terms, a younger Naidu had a mix of old and young party leaders with distinct personalities and good oratory skills. However, in this term, it looked like Naidu made a conscious effort to neutralise power centres and elevate lesser-known or inexperienced members. It can be said that the TDP looked like a weak party with a very strong leader. The main reason is that he wanted to ensure he and Lokesh become central figures of the party. In this years election campaign, it looked like TDPs star campaigner was Naidu and no one else. But when the results did not go in his favour, Naidus image as a winning horse has lost steam. His credibility is at an all-time low for frequently changing his stand on various political issues and also his opportunistic tie-ups with national and regional parties. He miserably lost two assembly elections AP and Telangana -- in the past six months. Many of the party sympathisers and hardcore admirers of NTR have already started distancing themselves from the party, not able to digest the fact that Naidu tried to join hands with the Congress, the reason why NTR started the party in the first place. In which direction is the party headed? Can the party cadre and leaders energise themselves under the leadership of a burnt-out leader and an inexperienced successor who is yet to prove himself? Or, is there a split in store if rumours of NTR family members consolidating and preparing for an assault are true? There is a question mark on Naidus future. After serving as a three-time CM and branding himself as an effective opponent of Narendra Modi on the Delhi stage, can he quietly go about his business as the leader of the opposition in the AP assembly? Most importantly, can he withstand and fight bigger political rivals after losing power, especially the ones like Modi? Answers are awaited. (Devulapalli is a Hyderabad-based senior journalist. Views expressed are personal.) Rajeev Sharma The Rahul Gandhi-led Congress finds itself ship-wrecked on a 52-square metre sinking island infested with snakes and surrounded by crocodiles and sharks. Thats the grim picture for the Congress after the just-concluded general elections. How could the 134-year-old Grand Old Party have done any better than its 52-seat tally, still three short of getting the leader of the opposition status, when it failed to open its account in 20 states and Union Territories (UTs) and could manage to get into double digits only in one state: Kerala? In sharp contrast, the BJP-led NDA won all the seats in 10 states and UTs, and polled more than 50 percent of votes in 15 states and UTs. This raises the obvious questions about the survivability of the Congress party in general and Rahul Gandhis own future in particular. Yes, he offered to resign before the partys apex decision-making body, the Congress Working Committee (CWC). But the 25-member CWC, dominated by loyalists of the Gandhis, rejected his resignation. Though media reports talk of Rahul still pushing the envelope of his resignation, the question is how would it affect the party anyway? Its just not the Congress that has been decimated by the Modi tsunami. All opposition parties are equally battered, much like the aftermath of a tsunami. But which other political party has purged or would purge its existing high command? Will Mayawati or Akhilesh Yadav or even Mamata Banerjee resign and pave the way for a new face to lead the party? Equally pertinent is the question whether the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had changed its leader when the party plummeted to just two seats in the Lok Sabha in the 1984 general elections? Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the BJP president at that point and though he offered to resign, his party rejected his resignation. Vajpayee, who became the BJP president when the party was born in 1980, continued to be BJP president till 1986. Seen from the BJP perspective, the Congresss undoing is that its a dynastic party, a tag that Team Modi successfully foisted on the GoP. But then look at other major parties the DMK, the Samajwadi Party, the Akali Dal, the Nationalist Congress Party, the Rashtriya Janata Dal or even the Bahujan Samaj Party (remember Mayawati introduced her nephew Akash Anand in this election) to name a few. Are these not dynastic parties or are they any different? And from the Congress perspective, is there any non-Nehru/Gandhi who has been a vote catcher for them? So, wouldn't the Congress be falling into the BJP trap by going in for a non-Nehru/Gandhi name to lead the party for its revival? Even if presuming that Rahul is allowed to go by the party, the next name that would spring to everybodys mind would most likely be Priyanka Gandhi, who came into electoral politics in January this year. But even her entry hasnt done magic for the party. The Congress vote share marginally increased by 0.2 percentage points more than the 2014 figures to 19.5 percent despite Priyankas entry. In sharp contrast, the BJPs vote share increasing by 6.4 percentage points to an impressive 37.4 percent in this 5-year period. Moreover, what impact can a change of leadership in the Congress bring about for the party when there are no significant elections round the corner for months? And yet, the Congress not only has to do something drastic but also be seen as doing something drastic, maybe out-of-the-box to reinvent itself and send a message to people. How about this out-of-the-box solution: embracing Congress splinters which walked out of the Congress years or decades ago? Can Rahul persuade parties like Mamata Banerjees Trinamool Congress or Sharad Pawars NCP or Jagan Reddy's YSR Congress for a home coming? Perhaps a better question would be: Can he persuade himself to do this? It looks outlandish and impossible for now. But it is a thought nevertheless. If this were to happen, it would go a long way in not just strengthening the GoP but also would send a powerful message to all other parties, particularly the BJP, that Rahul means business and would sacrifice himself at the altar of the party for strengthening the latter. The time has come for the Congress to look beyond the dynasty. Rahul has not delivered. Priyanka is unprepared or under-prepared. The Congress badly needs an experiment an experiment with truth that it cannot take on the Modi dispensation in its current avatar. It desperately needs to give out a signal that its not a party of dynasts. But the question is will the Gandhis see the writing on the wall and hand over the party reins to a non-Gandhi? The answer is obvious. The Congress wont do any such thing. Instead it will just wait out for the Modi magic to wane. But that may not happen anytime soon, perhaps not even in 2024! (Rajeev Sharma is an independent journalist and political analyst. He tweets at @Kishkindha. Views are personal.) Rajasthan's six BSP MLAs will meet party chief Mayawati in Delhi on June 1 during which the party's performance in the Lok Sabha polls in the state will be reviewed, a legislator said Tuesday. BSP MLA Wajib Ali told PTI that the party's support to the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government would continue. "There is no agenda of withdrawing support from the government, rather we will discuss how efficiently we can work with the government here," he said. "We will discuss the party's performance in the Lok Sabha elections in the state. Future strategy will also be discussed in the meeting," the MLA added. The six BSP MLAs were scheduled to meet Governor Kalyan Singh here on Monday but the meeting was cancelled at the last moment. Ali said that based on the discussions with the party chief, a decision would be taken regarding the meeting with the governor. In the house of 200 MLAs, the Congress has 100 and its ally Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) has one. Besides the BSP, which has 6 MLAs, the Congress has the support of 12 out of total 13 independent MLAs. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena alliance managed to retain all the seven seats in the Mumbai region in these Lok Sabha elections. Post the win, Moneycontrols Tarun Sharma spoke to Dr. Shrikant Shinde, the Shiv Sena MP from Kalyan, about the development work in the next five years and how civic issues like traffic, local trains and the metro will be top priority for them. Watch this video for more. Image: Twitter/@mimichakraborty Bengali actors Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan shared pics of their first visit of the parliament. The newly-elected MPs from Trinamool Congress were seen in glamorous avatars as they posed for the pics. The pics have been hailed and slammed at the same time. Mimi and Nusrat have been roiled in controversies since the time they were fielded by the Trinamool Congress as peoples representatives from West Bengal for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Although both the young MPs won by a striking margin, the users of several social media platforms are yet to stop picking on them. For years, the citizens of this country have worked with a preconceived notion of how female parliamentarians should present themselves. Therefore, when Mimi and Nusrat turned up on their first day in the parliament in crisp, western attire instead of sarees, the netizens went all out in shaming and lambasting the young politicians for their choice of clothing. Interestingly, a section of Bengalis ridiculed the actors while basking in past glory, reminiscing the brand of political stalwarts that Bengal has sent to the parliament in the past. Dont do tiktok in parliament. Sunny (@555Sunny) May 27, 2019 2 to bador eder chiriyakhan te rakh, kothai ki pore jete hoi sei bodh tuku nei, sandy (@iamjustcome) May 27, 2019 This is the difference..href="https://t.co/to9Wu5UPxw">pic.twitter.com/to9Wu5UPxw Raman Rajpoot (@Er_Raman_Rajput) May 28, 2019 Do u both think parliament is your rampwalk stage??? Stk (@androidstreak) May 27, 2019 Respected MPs from WB,please speak out loud & clear during parliament session.We have sent you as our representative.If we want to watch your pose..films are there .So please be wise that is not for TIKTOK only Subhadeep Sen (@subhadeepsn) May 27, 2019 Ne new plans for #TikTok video in parl??? Tunaljit (@jittunal) May 28, 2019 You people dont know the gravity of parliament, taking selfie and making tamasha of bengal.... Sheets sekhar (@lumia_sekh) May 27, 2019 Eagerly waiting for ur next tiktok video at parliament! Have fun! Sabuj Ganguly (@SabujGanguly) May 28, 2019 Most of the trolls targeted Mimi especially because of the way she posed in front of the Parliament building in a victory pose, just like any average millennial would do. Some even pointed out that this is not film shoot. Mimi was trolled last month too once for losing her cool while campaigning and the other time for wearing gloves while greeting her electorate at a rally. Nusrat was also taunted for visiting temples while campaigning; she retorted saying she had equal respect for all religions. Wow Wow Wow!!! New MPs from Bengal.. Mimi Chakraborty & Nusrat Jahaan_India is really really progressing ..its a welcome relief to see MPs who are so easy on the eye Bollywood filmmaker Ram Gopal Verma earlier posted a TikTok video, featuring Mimi and Nusrat, and said it was a welcome relief to see easy on the eye MPs. India has sent out invites to the leaders of BIMSTEC countries to grace the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his cabinet with their presence on Thursday. The prime minister and his ministers will take the oath of office in the evening of May 30. BIMSTEC, which stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, is a group of countries including Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan. All members of BIMSTEC are from South Asia and are located close to the Bay of Bengal. The organisation was formed in 1997 and is headquartered in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Apart from BIMSTEC country heads, the president of Kyrgyzstan and the prime minister of Mauritius have also been invited to attend the ceremony. Explaining the choice of invitees, a Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said the leaders of BIMSTEC member nations were invited keeping in mind the governments Neighbourhood First policy, reported Business Standard. He added: The President of Kyrgyz Republic, who is heading the Shanghai Cooperation Organization at present, and the Prime Minister of Mauritius, who was the chief guest at this year's Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, were also invited. Notably, Sushma Swaraj was in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, a few days ago to attend a diplomatic meet. PM Modi will be visiting the place in June to attend a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit. In 2014, during the PMs previous swearing-in ceremony, the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Nawaz Sharif, then-PM of Pakistan, attended the ceremony. Apart from leaders of SAARC member countries, the Mauritian prime minister was invited by New Delhi in 2014 as well. Now, one reason why India decided to invite leaders of BIMSTEC group and not SAARC could be that the latter had been rendered nearly defunct in the past few years. This happened after India, along with some other member states, decided to pull out of the 2016 SAARC Summit that was supposed to be held in Islamabad. The boycott was in response to the terror attack on the Indian Air Force's Pathankot base and the Uri terror attack. Not a single SAARC Summit has been held since the 2014 Kathmandu meet. This is because India has repeatedly exerted that talks and terror cannot go hand in hand. Therefore, the country decided to strengthen BIMSTEC ties instead. In fact, when a BRICS Summit was held in Goa in 2016, BIMSTEC leaders were also invited, as a part of extending BRICS regional outreach. Besides, most of the PMs poll narrative for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections was pitched around its tough stance on Pakistan vis-a-vis the terror issue. Image: AP Gone are the days when traffic jams used to be a struggle only for people in the countrys urban sprawls. Now you could find yourself stuck in a winding queue even on your way down the worlds highest peak. Over the past week, at least 11 people lost their lives due to congestion along the way to Mount Everests summit, as reported by CNN. The number of deaths this year is higher than during the avalanches triggered by the earthquakes in 2014-15. Indian-origin Anjali Kulkarni was one of the recent casualties. She made it to the top but died on her way down as she got stuck in traffic. A survivor of the Mt Everest traffic jam, Ameesha Chauhan, told NDTV that novice climbers must not be allowed to venture up the 8,500-metre high peak in order to prevent such incidents in the future. A doctor from Arizona, Ed Dohring, was shocked by what he saw when he reached the summit a few days ago, he told The New York Times. Climbers were pushing each other to take selfies on the summit, which he described was about the size of two ping-pong tables. However, this isnt the first time the problem has reared its head. Several such instances have been witnessed in the past too, but the lesson is yet to be learned. In 1996, eight people died within 36 hours, near the peaks summit, reported the BBC. A photograph in 2012 by German mountaineer Ralf Dujmovits showed a 'conga line' of hundreds of people queued along the way to the Everest. Around 10 people lost their lives the same year, three of whom were sherpas, the BBC added. In April 2013, a scuffle broke out between two European climbers and a group of Nepalese guides at a height of 7,470 metres, as reported by BBC. Apart from this, issues of sub-standard or faulty climbing equipment, leaking oxygen cylinders, an ever-growing number of thrill-seekers around the world are some other reasons behind the rising accidents. The New York Times added that veteran climbers believe that the lack of stricter norms for issuance of permits and shoddy regulations in Nepal only serves to worsen the situation. Former Andhra Pradesh Circle Inspector Gorantla Madhav (Image: Facebook/ Gorantla Madhav) When the picture of a Member of Parliament saluting a police officer went viral recently, the netizens could not help but wonder why a parliamentarian would bow down before a cop. Heres the story behind the photograph. Gorantla Madhav is now an elected MP from Hindupur constituency in Andhra Pradeshs Anantapur district. Before taking to politics, Madhav was a Circle Inspector from Kadiri. A YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) candidate, he won from the Hindupur parliamentary constituency by a huge majority of nearly 1.5 lakh votes against Kristappa Nimmala, the sitting Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MP. Recently, a picture of Madhav exchanging pleasantries with Mahboob Basha, his former boss and CID Deputy Superintendent of Police, went viral on the internet. In the photo, both could be seen saluting each other in the presence of other cops. Soon after the photo went viral, Twitter went abuzz with protocol discussions. Madhav then decided to address the media and back his action. According to a The Week report, he said he saluted his former superior when he came across him on the day of vote counting, i.e., May 23. I saluted the DSP first and then he responded to me. I adore him. It was mutual respect, he added. Madhav made headlines in the recent past for locking horns with JC Diwakar Reddy, a TDP leader and former MP from Anantapur. The verbal exchange began over the outbreak of violence in a village. Reddy, who is notorious for making controversial remarks, called the police hijras (eunuchs) for not being able to adequately tackle the situation. Retorting to the comments, Madhav warned that the MP, or anyone, degrading the police force would have to face strict action. Instead of backing out, Reddy dared Madhav into a duel. Thats when the police officer decided to quit the force and join politics. This viral photograph only added to Madhavs goodwill, with scores of people coming forward and upholding his simplicity and humility. After more than a decade of rapid growth, Chinese travel to the US is falling. And that has cities, malls and other tourist spots scrambling to reverse the trend. Travel from China to the US fell 5.7% in 2018 to 2.9 million visitors, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office, which collects data from US Customs forms. It was the first time since 2003 that Chinese travel to the US slipped from the prior year. Friction between the US and China is one reason for the slowdown. The Trump administration first imposed tariffs on Chinese solar panels and washing machines in January 2018, and the trade war has escalated from there. The US now has a 25 percent tariff on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports, while China has retaliated with tariffs on $60 billion of US imports. Last summer, China issued a travel warning for the US, telling its citizens to beware of shootings, robberies and high costs for medical care. The US shot back with its own warning about travel to China. Wang Haixia, who works at an international trade company in Beijing, traveled to the US in May for her sister's graduation. She and her family planned to spend 10 days in Illinois and New York. Wang says she might have stayed longer but doesn't want to contribute to the US economy amid the trade war. "I cannot cancel this trip because I promised my sister I would go to her commencement," she said. "My relatives will contribute more than 100,000 yuan to America just staying for 10 days, and that's enough." There are other reasons behind the slowdown. Economic uncertainty in China has travelers at the lower end of the market vacationing closer to home, says Wolfgang Georg Arlt, director of the Chinese Outbound Tourism Research Institute, which found that 56 percent of travelers leaving China in the last three months of 2018 went to Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan compared with 50 percent in 2017. Those who do travel farther are seeking out more exotic destinations like Croatia, Morocco and Nepal. Chinese travel to the US had already been moderating from its breakneck pace earlier this decade. In 2000, 249,000 Chinese visited the US That tripled to 802,000 by 2010, then tripled again by 2015, in part because of higher incomes, better long-haul flight connections and an easing of visa restrictions, according to McKinsey, the consulting firm. The US welcomed more than 3 million Chinese visitors in 2016 and 2017. But year-over-year growth edged up just 4 percent in 2017, the slowest pace in more than a decade. Most industry-watchers agree that any downturn is temporary, since China's middle class will only continue to expand. The US government forecasts Chinese tourism will grow 2% this year to 3.3 million visitors, and will reach 4.1 million visitors in 2023. "Even if the Chinese economy cools, it's still going to continue to be a very good source of growth for the travel industry," said David Huether, senior vice president of research for the US Travel Association. In general, international travel to the US has been declining. Overall data for 2018 hasn't been released yet, but international travel fell 2% in 2016 and was flat in 2017. But because China commands some of the highest tourism traffic to the US, any falloff will be felt by destinations that have come to rely on Chinese spending power. In 2017, the country had the fifth highest number of US-bound tourists, behind Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Japan. Ten years earlier, China wasn't even on the top 10 list, falling behind countries like Germany, France, South Korea and Australia, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office. China didn't crack the top 10 list until 2011 and has been climbing ever since. Spending by Chinese visitors which doesn't include students ballooned more than 600 percent between 2008 and 2016, to nearly $18.9 billion. In 2017, that fell by 1 percent to $18.8 billion, or about 12% of overall tourism spending. To hold onto those dollars, experts say the tourism industry must do more to keep up with Chinese travelers and their changing needs. Larry Yu, a professor of hospitality management at George Washington University, notes that Chinese tourists particularly younger ones are increasingly planning trips using social media apps like WeChat and are less likely to book through big tour groups. They have also rapidly adopted smartphone-based payment systems. Destinations should invest in those technologies now if they want to continue attracting Chinese tourists, says David Becker, former CEO of Attract China, a New York-based travel consultancy. "A lot of companies looked at the Chinese market as easy money, but we have to be relevant to the Chinese," Becker said. Attract China, for instance, has helped luxury stores in Manhattan incorporate Jeenie, a live translation app, and add Alipay and WeChat Pay for mobile payments. Others have also been stepping up their efforts. The Beverly Center mall in Los Angeles used to cater to busloads of Chinese tourists. Now, it's focusing on small groups of less than 10 VIP shoppers, says Susan Vance, the mall's marketing and sponsorship director. The mall has also pushed stores to offer China UnionPay, a digital payment service. More than 100 stores now have it, Vance says, up from three in 2014. File image A steep decline in nuclear energy capacity will threaten climate goals and power supply security unless advanced economies find a way to extend the lifespan of their reactors, the International Energy Agency said. Nuclear is currently the world's second-largest source of low-carbon electricity, behind hydropower, and accounting for 10 percent of global electricity generation. But nuclear fleets in the United States and Europe are on average more than 35 years old and many of the world's 452 reactors are set to close as cheap gas and tighter safety requirements make it uneconomical to operate them. "Without policy changes, advanced economies could lose 25 percent of their nuclear capacity by 2025 and as much as two-thirds of it by 2040," the IEA writes in its first major report about nuclear energy in two decades. Over the past 20 years, wind and solar capacity has increased by 580 gigawatt GW in advanced economies. Despite that, however, IEA estimates that the 36 percent share of clean energy sources in global power supply in 2018 was the same as two decades ago because of the decline in nuclear. In order to offset the expected decline of nuclear in the next two decades, renewables investment would have to grow fivefold, but that would not only be hugely expensive, but would also hit public resistance and require major power grid investment, IEA said. IEA director Fatih Birol said on a webcast that the agency is not asking countries who have exited nuclear to reconsider, but said that countries who did decide to keep nuclear should do more to support the industry. Birol said the low-carbon nature of nuclear and its role in energy security are currently not sufficiently valued for existing nuclear plants to operate profitably and that new nuclear projects have been plagued by cost overruns. "Without action to provide more support for nuclear power, global efforts to transition to a cleaner energy system will become drastically harder," Birol said. He added that while renewables are key for meeting sustainability goals, it would be extremely difficult to reach those targets without nuclear. IEA Energy Markets chief Keisuke Sadamori said it is more expensive to build new wind and solar than to extend the lifespan of existing reactors, which require investment of $500 million to $1 billion per GW of capacity. Many U.S. reactors have already seen their lifespan extended to 60 from 40 years. French utility EDF - the world's largest single operator of nuclear plants - also wants to make its reactors last longer. Credit card bills to pay. Outstanding personal loans. Late bill payments. Insufficient money coming in to cover up the required spending. When it comes to money, life is not simple. You may be worried about debts, insufficient retirement kitty, and other financial woes that may arise due to poor financial planning. You would lead a more enjoyable life when you are not stressing about bills and have sufficient money in the bank. The good news is that it is possible. You only need some structure that will make your financial planning easy. Get your money stuff on track with these five truths. 1. Financial illiteracy is costing you a lot India is home to 17.5% of the worlds population but nearly 76% of its adult population does not understand even the basic financial concepts. - LiveMint When will you be financially stable to buy your dream house? You can quickly answer this question if you are acquainted with the RULE of 72. Watch this insightful video to know more about this rule. A little financial knowledge can be disastrous. You may be taking care of several financial avenues, including investment portfolio, retirement corpus, insurance plans and many more, but are you sufficiently informed about money to make wise and precise decisions. Financial literacy serves as an up-to-date foundation and helps you understand money how it works. Being financially sound regarding money enables you to take care of its management, investment and expenditure to successfully fulfill the monetary milestones of your life. 2. Saving 10% wont get you through retirement Life expectancy in India has increased by 11 years since 1990. World Economic Forum Your retirement plan is more than just contributing toward your employee provident fund (EPF) and public provident fund (PPF). Have you ever calculated your retirement corpus? If no, you must watch this video to be informed of the importance of retirement plan. If yes, did you consider life expectancy as a deciding factor? Increased life expectancy means a long life after retirement. It gives you several additional years to lead an enjoyable retired life only if you have saved sufficiently for those years. You need to maintain the same lifestyle as you currently have. Rising inflation rate and increasing expenses demand a large corpus for your retirement. Between 1990 and 2017, Indias HDI value rose from 0.427 to 0.640, an increase of nearly 50%. It means that by 2050, Indias average life expectancy will be 74.2 years. It means you need to save enough for all those additional years. Thereby, be an early bird and invest in the right avenues to build a decent retirement corpus. 3. You are losing a lot due to the cost of delayed investment Are you losing money due to the cost of delayed investment? Maybe! Successfully investment doesnt mean taking high risks and expect 20% returns, or make bets or wait for a jackpot. You can safely let your money grow through compounding. The concept of compounding is simple, yet powerful. Benjamin Franklin once wrote somewhere about compounding: '''tis the stone that will turn all your lead into gold. Remember that money is of a prolific, generating nature. Money can beget money, and its offspring can beget more.'' What is Cost of Delayed Investment? According to Wikipedia - The accrued interest on the investment for the duration of the delay can have a significant effect on the net returns. The cost grows with the period of the investment; the longer the investment is delayed, the higher the cost is. Watch this short video to know more about Cost of Delayed Investment. Thereby, follow three golden rules diligently 1. Start early 2. Have patience 3. Start with as much as you can and let the magic of compounding work on your investment. For example, if a person starts with a monthly investment amount of Rs 2,000 per month at the age of 35 for the next 25 years, the maturity amount will be 26.8 Lakhs, but if starts the same investment at the age of 25 for next 35 years, the amount will be 76.6 Lakhs. 4. Cost of inflation is swaying your returns Lack of financial literacy comes as the biggest hindrance to building wealth and a secure financial portfolio. Inflation is one such factor which is often overlooked by investors. Cost of inflation will evidently impact your returns too. As mentioned in the video link above - you would wish to maintain the same lifestyle after retirement as you are currently living. But, the food costs, petrol prices, airfares and the price of every other commodity will escalate due to inflation which will eventually drive up the cost of living. Your investment should be sufficient to fetch enough returns to enable you meet this cost. The key is to put money in different investment avenues including ones that have historically succeeded in keeping up with the pace of inflation. 5. Common financial pitfalls may distort your financial plan Life is too short to make financial mistakes. So, rather than trial and error approach, it makes more sense to learn from the mistakes of other people. Always consider your financial goals in mind before you start investing. Never start with vague goals. Be clear, specific and detailed with your goals. For example, if you want to save for your childs education, it is better to invest money in a child plan rather than FDs or ELSS. A child plan will give you a peace of mind that someone is present to take care of your childs education even in your absence. Similarly, funneling your money to too many financial products can result in dilution of returns rather than diversification. Keep reviewing your performing and nonperforming investments and change them when required. The journey to a regret-free financial life starts by making calculated decisions. A foolproof financial plan not only depends on investing in the right avenues, but also ensuring that you can drive out maximum gains out of your hard earned money. Financial planning is like navigation. If you know where you are and where you want to go, navigation isnt such a great problem. Its when you dont know the two points that its difficult. Venita VanCaspel Bankers, who are fighting to withdraw the bankruptcy petition they filed against Sterling Biotech, seem to have received the money from abroad, from the absconding promoters who are wilful defaulters and are facing multiple investigations and criminal charges by the CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation), SFIO (Serious Frauds Investigation Office) and ED (Enforcement Directorate) as well as extradition proceedings. Documents accessed by Moneylife reveal that banks have already received a remittance on account of a one-time-settlement (OTS) through VELL FLO Limited which has its registered office at 252, Muri Okunola Street, VI, Lagos (Nigeria). In fact, T Deena Dayalan, assistant general manager, Andhra Bank, told a committee of lenders at their meeting on 22nd May that VELL FLO belongs to Nitin Jayantilal Sandesara, promoter of Sterling Biotech Ltd. The money was received through a SWIFT transaction, but the amount is received is not known. It may be recalled that the SandesarasNitin Sandesara, Chetankumar Sandesara, Dipti Chetan Sandesaraand Hiteshkumar Patel are absconding from India and have extradition orders issued against them by a Delhi court. CBI has initiated action against the all the Sandesaras as well as Rajbhushan Omprakash Dixit and Vilas Joshi, chartered accountant Hemant Hathi, as well as a former director of Andhra Bank, Anup Garg. It may be recalled that the SandesarasNitin Sandesara, Chetankumar Sandesara, Dipti Chetan Sandesaraand Hiteshkumar Patel are absconding from India and have extradition orders issued against them by a Delhi court. CBI has initiated action against the all the Sandesaras as well as Rajbhushan Omprakash Dixit and Vilas Joshi, chartered accountant Hemant Hathi, as well as a former director of Andhra Bank, Anup Garg. In a stunning development in early March, lenders of Sterling Biotech attempted to withdraw the insolvency petition filed before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) through a decision that has the concurrency of over 90.32% of banks. It was learnt that the absconding promoters had offered to pay Rs5,500 crore as an OTS, which is just about 40% of their outstanding dues (but includes full payment of principal) for Sterling Biotech. They owe an equal amount to lenders in another group company, Sterling SEZ, where a similar offer was made and banks were keen to accept the deal. Details of the meeting of bankers available to Moneylife make no mention of the sum that has been remitted through a SWIFT transaction. The document indicates that the details of the remittance have been submitted to NCLT as well as CBI. What is interesting is that banks seem to have a problem with the foreign inward remittance certificates and have sought legal advice on this. Before going into details of the discussion at the lenders meeting on 22nd May, it is important to recall that NCLT had rapped bankers last month and stopped them from withdrawing their bankruptcy petitions of both, Sterling Biotech as well as Sterling SEZ. NCLT had charged banks with misleading the court and asked for action to be initiated against them. Despite this stinging rap from NCLT, the consortium of lenders, led by Andhra Bank, has decided to challenge the courts order. On 11th May I had written how bankers (good to remember, they are employees of government-controlled banks) were in a defiant mood and had decided to obtain legal opinion before deciding the next course of action. At a follow-up meeting of all lenders to Sterling Biotech, on 22nd May at Andhra Bank in Cuffe Parade (Mumbai), the lenders had access to a legal opinion from Justice MG Gaikwad, former judge of the Bombay High Court. They had also called AK Mishra, senior partner of the law firm, MDP Partners, to explain the legal opinion and options to all lenders. The legal opinion was that banks could appeal against NCLTs order of 8 May 2019, which had rejected their attempt to withdraw the insolvency petition, to accept the absconding promoters settlement offer. According to the legal opinion, NCLTs order interferes with the commercial decision of banks and they can appeal to NCLAT (National Company Law Appellate Tribunal) seeking a stay order against the order of the NCLT (Mumbai bench) asking them to liquidate the company. It was reiterated that the withdrawal of the insolvency petition was in line with the guidelines of Indian Banks Association (IBA) and Reserve Bank of India (RBI). It was emphasised by banks and their lawyer that criminal actions against the promoters of Sterling Biotech Ltd will continue. Anil C Raj, chief general manager of IDBI Bank, asserted that banks had every right to approach the appellate tribunal since they were getting a higher amount through the OTS. He, however, cautioned that KYC (know your customer) compliance had to be ensured for the inward remittance of funds. The legal expert Mr Mishra told bankers that a CBI letter cannot stop the lenders rights. He also pointed out that the RBI counsel had not objected to the banks attempt to withdraw their insolvency petition against the company. He also insisted that criminal proceedings against the promoters will continue and went into details about how SWIFT messages were submitted to the court for inward remittances and there was no need to submit the FIRCs (foreign inward remittance certificates). This meeting reiterated that lenders money is public money and all efforts need to be made for recovering maximum amount. While the sentiment is highly laudable, it would have been made sense if a similar sentiment were at work when banks lent thousands of crores of rupees to the Sterling group and watched in silence when it was siphoned abroad. There was no discussion at the meeting about whether the absconding promoters would return to India to take charge of the companies and to face criminal action. It is also interesting that none of the bankers seems to have raised or minuted this very important issue. If the promoters do return, will they be considered fit and proper to get charge of the management of a publicly listed company under SEBI (Securities & Exchange Board of India) rules and Companies Act rules? Clearly, the absconding promoters may have obtained legal opinion on how to beat these rules also. Maybe they will attempt to control management through a proxy; only time will tell how this will play out. The lenders, however, are uninterested in the colour of the promoters remittance, although they are facing charges of money laundering under a draconian new law. The efficacy of this law itself will be tested by the Sterling Biotech case. But this did not come up for discussion at the lenders meeting. On 26th April, NCLT had withdrawn its earlier order allowing the lenders of Sterling SEZ to withdraw the bankruptcy petition. It also directed government to take punitive action against the senior officials of the lenders for misleading the Tribunal with a withdrawal plea. The ED had strongly opposed the banks move to allow the promoters to get away with a settlement. It remains to be seen how this case plays out, because this move has a direct bearing on hundreds of other cases, including those of Essar Steel and Kingfisher Airlines. May 28, 2019 U.S. Government Seeks NGO Help For Removing Iran From Syria The U.S.Department of State is offering a grant of $75,000,000 to non-government-organizations to help it to further meddle in Syria. The grant SFOP0005916 - Supporting Local Governance and Civil Society in Syria will go to "Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education". The task description is quite interesting as the NGOs which will eventually get the grant will have to commit to counter one of Syria's military allies: The purpose of this notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) is to advance the following U.S. Government policy objectives in Syria: Ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS and counter violent extremism, including other extremist groups in Syria; Achieve a political solution to the Syrian conflict under the auspices of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2254; and, End the presence of Iranian forces and proxies in Syria. The Department of State's Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, Office of Assistance Coordination (NEA/AC) aims to advance these policy objectives by supporting the following assistance objectives: Strengthen responsive and credible governance and civil society entities to capably serve and represent communities liberated from ISIS. Advance a political solution to the Syrian conflict under the auspices of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2254; and, Counter extremism and disinformation perpetuated by Iranian forces, designated terrorist organizations, and other malign actors through support for local governance actors and civil society organizations. The operational field for the grant is not only the Syrian northeast which U.S. troops currently occupy, but also the al-Qaeda infested Idleb governorate as well as all government controlled areas. The related Funding Opportunity Description (available through the above link) does not explain what an NGO could do to advance the highlighted U.S. government goals. Work on the three year project is supposed to start on January 1 2020. It must be applied for by August 2 2019. --- h/t @domihol Posted by b on May 28, 2019 at 18:13 UTC | Permalink Comments During the first weekend in May, The North Carolina State Organization of The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, a society of women educators, met for their annual convention in Hickory. Several local, retired teachers, members of the Delta Pi Chapter, were honored for their service and commitment to education and the society. Pam Holthouser, retired math teacher from Mooresville High School, was one of 11 state recipients of the Golden Key Award. A portion of her nomination read: Pam has served as treasurer for the Delta Pi Chapter since it was chartered 24 years ago. She is the backbone of our chapter due to her diligent role as our chapter treasurer. Delta Pi is blessed to have Pam ensure that our financial records are completed efficiently and in a timely manner.She was celebrated at an awards assembly on Friday evening. In honor of the 85th Birthday of NC DKG, chapters were asked to nominate Notable Women Educators. Delta Pi selected two notable women, Carol Carroll (retired principal and curriculum supervisor from MGSD) and Martha Smith (retired MHS English / drama teacher) for educational excellence. These ladies were celebrated at a Sunday morning brunch. Manila (CNN Philippines Life) The last time I talked to chef Nicco Santos, we were getting to know the ASEAN region through the food at Hey Handsome, his Southeast Asian restaurant at Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. Over plates of Indonesian lamb buah keluak and Singaporean ho fan, Santos stressed the need to respect originality and, at the same time, continuously evolve with respect to Southeast Asian food. That was two years ago. Hey Handsome has since closed, and Santos other restaurant, Your Local, has been sold. Together with restaurant partner Quenee Vilar, Santos now tends to the team behind the counter at Elephant Grounds, a micro roaster from Hong Kong brought to the Philippines by the Standard Hospitality Group. There are a lot of things to be excited about at Elephant Grounds, beyond the fact that its the latest addition to Manilas roster of innovative restaurants. Ask anyone whos been to the cafe in Hong Kong, and they will tell you the place is popular for two things: ice cream sandwiches and coffee. But in Manila, its not just a coffee shop, says Mike Concepcion of the Standard Hospitality Group. Its a place where you want to take care of people, Santos says. The black tie is a layered drink with espresso, whipping cream, and condensed milk. Photo by JILSON TIU Scrambled eggs on sourdough toast. Photo by JILSON TIU The inviting stadium stairs just in front of the counter, ideally for takeout but could also serve as a hangout for people who want to stay a little longer. Photo by JILSON TIU What is apparent is theres a lot of warmth inside the newly-built cafe in Taguig, owing not just to the wooden interiors and its laidback design, care of architect JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio, but also to the precision and detail by which Concepcion articulates a vision, and then takes his time executing it until it fulfills a standard. Concepcion talks about making Elephant Grounds a space that shares mutual interests with other brands, how the sum of all its parts makes it really special. But when he says he wants the cafe to be a vibrant space, where people can stay five times a week, he simply invites us to make Elephant Grounds home. When he says the cafe has accessible food you want every day, he tells us we are welcome to keep coming back. One may argue that Metro Manila is saturated enough with coffee shops as second homes, as birthplaces of ideas or coffices, but there is enough in Elephant Grounds to spark curiosity. There are inviting stadium stairs just in front of the counter, ideally for takeout, but Concepcion is curious how people would use the space. The counter itself is familiar; its an Easter egg for those who remember how Hey Handsome looked like. On a wall are skateboards, made canvases with art by Erik Parker, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Madsaki. Combined with Concepcions lifestyle concept is a ready sense of family, even before the cafe opens to the public. Santos and Vilar are still with half of their old team, which explains the relative ease by which they work behind the scenes, and the playful banter in between. The hope is the chemistry translates into connections, for more room for relationships between the staff and customers, says Santos. This is whats going to sustain us, connecting with guests in an authentic way, not just transactional. Maybe its Santos engaging stories, or Concepcions enthusiasm but already the food tastes good here, and for a reasonable price point, too. Drinks at the espresso bar start at 120, with some interesting choices, such as the black tie (150), a layered drink of espresso, milk, and cream. The tea bar offers bright and laidback flavors, most evident in the sunset iced tea, another layered drink of orange, pineapple, and butterfly pea tea, the citrusy yuzu oolong iced tea, and the berry fields iced tea (all 150), among others. Theres also Thai milk tea (150) if you need your fix. Elephant Grounds' latte art. Photo by JILSON TIU Elephant Grounds' long black. Photo by JILSON TIU Restaurant partner Quenee Vilar preparing a Thai shrimp salad. Photo by JILSON TIU The food is stamped with Santos and Vilars Southeast Asian flair, in more relatable packaging as comfort food. Nothing pretends to be anything than casual, accessible fare: a Thai shrimp salad, smoked bacon carbonara, yuzu salmon eggs benny, and tapa donburi, among others, are available all-day round. But its crucial that you try the twice-cooked pork belly adobo, laid in a bed of soft black garlic rice, alongside a velvety scrambled egg, atchara, and surprise bits of chicharon. These options took five months to develop, with Santos aiming for great value without sacrificing quality. Drafting the menu for Elephant Grounds also meant he had to align with the Standard Groups expertise in building brands which includes Yabu, Mighty Quinn, and Ippudo Ramen as he lent his culinary creativity to a broader market. What was important was to localize the palates, while retaining established elements from Elephant Grounds in Hong Kong. For Santos, it was important to be aware that Elephant Grounds was arriving in the Philippines near the tail-end of the third-wave coffee movement: they have to impress both specialty coffee aficionados and people who might enjoy the usual cup of joe, but are open for something more. This takes work, for example, as when they had to calibrate and match the taste profile of Elephant Grounds OG blend here. Yet there are touches of innovation, says Santos, as in the toasted rice ice cream (lovingly reminiscent of Filipino dessert guinumis), the dressing used for the salad, or the fried egg that comes with the duck krapow. Elephant Grounds' take on tapa. Photo by JILSON TIU Nicco Santos with Mike Concepcion. Photo by JILSON TIU The tea bar offers bright and laidback flavors, most evident in the sunset iced tea, a layered drink of orange, pineapple, and butterfly pea tea, the citrusy yuzu oolong iced tea, and the berry fields iced tea. Photo by JILSON TIU What customers may expect is far from a copy-paste version of the franchise, says Concepcion. All coffee is imported from Brazil, Sumatra (Indonesia), and Costa Rica, but the ice cream is local (the milk is from Hollys) and food came from local suppliers. Consistent with the Hong Kong brand is the insistence on sustainability. Were trying to find a way to have artisanal suppliers and farmers and put them in business with bigger chains, says Santos. As a celebrated chef now behind the kitchen at Elephant Grounds, Santos says he still wants to challenge himself, to explore and try on his business hat, as he keeps all he learned from the years prior. Even though Ive lost two restaurants, Ive gained more than I lost, he says. Its a sentiment laden with meaning, which gives soul to what the cafe is poised to be: a fun and welcoming space where theres good coffee, good food, and good ice cream to be had. With Concepcion, Santos, and Vilar at the helm, Elephant Grounds looks like its going to keep us staying for a long, long while, making us remember that good coffee is more than beans its heart. *** UPDATE (Jun 24, 2019): Elephant Grounds opens on June 28. It is located at LGF One Bonifacio High Street. Visit @elephantgroundsph on Instagram and Facebook. UPDATE (Jun 7, 2019): Elephant Grounds has moved their opening date and will be announced soon. Members of the community gathered Monday at Foothills Higher Education Center in Morganton for the annual Memorial Day service to honor military members killed in action. Molly Eller, the veterans service officer for Burke County, greeted the audience before members of the Marine Corps League Table Rock Detachment No. 1197 presented the colors and local Boy and Girl Scout troops led the singing of the National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance. Keith Rose, senior pastor of Zion Baptist Church, gave the opening prayer. Kelly Tate of Carolina Caring introduced the keynote speaker, U.S. Army Sgt. Timothy Moore, a North Carolina veterans service officer. His nearly decade-long career with the Army includes two deployments to Iraq in 2009 and 2011 . He was awarded many medals and honors before taking medical retirement from the Army in 2016. After leading the crowd in a moment of silence to honor military members killed in the line of duty, Moore shared statistics on how many U.S. soldiers have died in battle since the Revolutionary War. He noted that many more either died of their injuries later, or suffered adverse mental health outcomes from their service experiences and committed suicide. You know that sustainable investing has entered the mainstream when Vanguard steps up its game. In September, the firm launched two exchange-traded funds, Vanguard ESG U.S. Stock ETF (ESGV) and Vanguard ESG International Stock ETF (VSGX). The two have already grown to $417 million and $270 million in assets, respectively. I commented on the funds here. The firm had been in the ESG space for years with a single fund: Vanguard FTSE Social Index (VFTSX) launched in 2000, has $5.6 billion in assets, and earns a Morningstar Analyst Rating of Silver. On the other hand, total mortgage renewals were at $1.3 billion by Q1 2019, compared to $1.2 billion the year prior. Single-family renewals were at $916 million, from last years $1.1 billion. Looking at our business regionally, single-family volumes in Eastern Canada were almost on par with last year, but this was due to the contribution made by our Excalibur program, which addresses the Ontario alternative mortgage market, executive vice president Moray Tawse noted. Conversely, prime mortgage volumes in Western Canada declined by 35%. Our assessment is that despite these results, First Nationals single-family national market share held steady. Tawse added that more promising results in the commercial side helped compensate for this relative weakness. During the first quarter, First National saw $1.2 billion in commercial originations (unchanged from Q1 2018) and $386 million in commercial renewals (from $152 million last year). In commercial, where First National is Canada's largest mortgage lender, total originations including renewals were 17% higher than a year ago, so a great start for this business. The federal administration will be investing millions into the retrofit of a 59-unit townhouse complex in Edmonton to place it in line with energy-efficiency standards, as part of the Canadian governments commitment to a clean energy economy. Late last week, Canadas Minister of Natural Resources Amarjeet Sohi stated that a tranche of $2.5 million will be invested in the green-friendly revamp of the Sundance Housing Co-operatives wood frame townhouse building. The project is supported by Natural Resources Canada, via its Energy Innovation Program that funds initiatives related to green technology research, development, and deployment. Eight of the 10 fastest appreciating Canadian exurbs are in Ontario, according to a Royal LePage report. These were in areas surrounding Windsor, London, Kingston, Hamilton, Guelph, and the Tri-Cities, among others. In BC, such communities have sprouted in the Hope Valley and Kamloops regions, dozens of kilometres outside of Vancouver. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 28) The former head of the government's anti-poverty agency on Tuesday faulted the gaming regulator for stopping the use of over 49 million in special funds meant for the poor. Liza Maza, former lead convenor of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), issued this statement in response to the Commission on Audit's report flagging the idle funds under her watch. State auditors said over 50 million was turned over by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) for poverty-alleviation projects in 2017. The funds were supposed to be utilized within a two-year period which expired last April 4, but only around 970,000 was used. Maza in a statement sent to CNN Philippines explained that Pagcor "demanded that the NAPC stop any further disbursement" in December 2017, just months after the turnover in April, to make way for a "full audit" amid allegations the money was being given to armed communist rebels. She believes the military was behind the order. "To my mind, this was indicative of the creeping power of the military in the affairs of government that ultimately made my position untenable and led to my resignation," Maza said. "Looking back, however, it appears that the anti-reform elements were dead-set on blocking any sort of benefits that we might have delivered to the poor while working with the administration in good faith, if only to discredit the larger reforms that we were advocating for." She said she submitted to the audit despite the "baseless" accusations. "We were, however, never informed of the results of said audit, if it were actually conducted, despite multiple follow-up attempts," she added. In a separate media briefing on Tuesday, NAPC Secretary Noel Felongco said the fund rollout never resumed as Maza faced a revived murder charge, which she called political persecution, and resigned. Nagpalabas po ng kautusan din yung dating secretary ng NAPC na huwag na ituloy... So hanggang naabutan ito ng nag-leave siya dahil nagkaroon ng problema, may WOA (warrant of arrrest) na lumabas against sa kanya... Tuluyan na nagresign dahil dun sa mga pangayayare na yan, naging idle talaga yung pera, Felongco said. [Translation: "The former NAPC Secretary issued an order to not pursue the projects... Then she went on leave because of a problem a warrant of arrest was issued against her... She resigned because of the turn of events and the money remained idle." Maza was among left-leaning individuals President Rodrigo Duterte appointed to the Cabinet as he reached out to communist rebels to talk peace. But peace negotiations have been called off and officials with leftist affiliations have either been fired, rejected by the Commission on Appointments, or resigned. Maza quit her post in August last year, leaving the NAPC with eight months to tap the funds. Felongco was appointed in November 2018. Felongco said the NAPC is now working with the gaming regulator to sign a new agreement that will extend the use of funds beyond the two-year deadline. CNN Philippines' AC Nicholls contributed to this report. Fred Underwood is the director of Federal Policy on Diversity and Inclusion for NAR, and says that this issue needs to be raised as a national priority. This is a potentially a national crisis coming down the road. Because African Americans, Hispanics, Asian Americans, and other minorities are going to make up the majority of home buyers, and if the home ownership rate doesnt increase, then our national home ownership rate decreases and we have the potential of ceasing being a home ownership nation, he said. A lot of emphasis on home ownership rates has been placed on access to finance, which Underwood said is necessary, but not sufficient. The new framework anticipates five other areas where the housing and research industry can be active in order to collectively address black home ownership, which faces more severe obstacles than those in other communities. The first of these five areas is working at a local level and strengthening the efforts of community involvement corporations and local finance agencies. The same solutions wont work in every area, so the group wants to address issues around land use, building codes, property taxes, and the kinds of questions that impact the ability of builders and other parties to build new housing and improve existing housing. The second area is housing supply and affordability, which has already been a big issue on the national stage recently. This overlaps with some things like land use, but Underwood says there also needs to be a focus on how groups can help investments that are targeted toward historically segregated communities, and how improvements can be made to housing units, particularly unoccupied two- to four-unit housing. Houston liquefied natural gas company NextDecade has awarded a pair of construction contracts worth nearly $9.6 billion to San Francisco engineering firm Bechtel. Under the deals announced on Tuesday morning, Bechtel will provide engineering, procurement and construction services to build the first phase of NextDecade's proposed Rio Grande LNG export terminal at the Port of Brownsville. NextDecade awarded Bechtel the contracts contingent on a July 25 permit decision from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. If the project secures a federal permit and reaches a positive final investment decision, Bechtel has pledged to have three production units, two storage tanks and two marine berths in operation by 2023. Unexpected: NextDecade founder, chairwoman of the board dies at 58 NextDecade is seeking permission to build a pipeline and six production units capable of making up to 27 million metric tons of LNG per year. Under its two deals with NextDecade, Bechtel has agreed to build three production units capable of making up to 17.61 million metric tons of LNG per year at a cost of $543 per ton. Over the past four decades, Bechtel has built nearly one-third of the world's LNG capacity. The company is expected to receive $15 million of NextDecade stock as payment for some early work on the project. "Bechtel's extensive experience developing LNG projects on the U.S. Gulf Coast, along with our advantaged site and technology choices, including Air Products C3MR and Baker Hughes GE rotating equipment, is expected to enable NextDecade in just the first three trains to have the lowest cost-per-ton greenfield LNG project built on the U.S. Gulf Coast under a fully wrapped lump-sum turnkey EPC contract," NextDecade Chief Executive Matt Schatzman said in a statement. Fuel Fix: Get daily energy news headlines in your inbox The contracts are the latest forward momentum for NextDecade, which recently landed a 20-year LNG supply contract with Dutch oil giant Shell and pledged to deepen nearly half of the Brownsville Ship Channel to 52 feet deep. Not everyone supports the projects. Rio Grande LNG and two similar export terminals proposed at the Port of Brownsville face stiff opposition from a coalition of shrimpers, fishermen, environmentalists, neighbors and communities working under the banner Save RGV From LNG. In a recent environmental review, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission gave Rio Grande LNG and Rio Bravo Pipeline the green light as individual projects but expressed concern about the cumulative traffic, noise and habitat fragmentation they would have on the endangered ocelot, jaguarundi and aplomado falcon when combined with other projects in the area. Issues impacting the Permian Basin energy industry, from regulations to supply chains, will be on the table at a luncheon hosted by former Railroad Commissioner David Porter. He will be joined by former U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke and co-host Art Cressman, chief executive officer of Cressman Tubulars, for the luncheon, scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Petroleum Club. Porter, founder of the 98th Meridian Foundation, said in a phone interview that he wants a good representation at the luncheon and wants feedback on his recent whitepaper on Texas disposal and injection well regulations. "One of the main reasons for the whitepaper and the way I wrote it the way I did is I'm trying to start a conversation and get ideas out there," Porter said. "I found the best way to regulate and get ideas is to have lengthy discussions with the industry, (those) who know the regulations and live with them, and all stakeholders." For Zinke and Cressman, the focus will be on the Permian Basin's energy sector and its role in national security. Zinke, a former U.S. Navy SEAL, said in a phone interview that as Interior secretary, he made the oil and gas industry a priority in terms of the energy component of energy security. The United States is now the world's largest oil and natural gas producer, which is good news for energy security, but brings challenges. "There's a lot of excitement about liquefied natural gas," he said. "As a consequence of the horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing revolution, there is an enormous supply of natural gas. But the infrastructure and market need to catch up." Zinke called flaring both unsustainable and wasteful and said the infrastructure needs to be put in place to provide a market for that excess natural gas, in the form of LNG being sent to foreign markets. "Environmentally, it is better produced here in this country under reasonable regulations than in a country with no regulations." He said that during his time in the Navy, he had been stationed in a number of countries and had seen energy produced "recklessly or not in an environmentally conscious way." He said so much attention had been paid to production numbers that the supply chain has been overlooked, and that has revealed some vulnerabilities. The tankers that carry U.S. crude primarily from the Permian Basin to foreign markets sail under foreign flags. The distributors of pipe from flowlines to drill pipe to casing are largely foreign-owned, he said. "I'm very conscious of and support of a 'made in America' supply chain. Not necessarily 100 percent, but a robust supply chain with diverse suppliers," he said. Cressman told the Reporter-Telegram his message will be to urge those attending the luncheon to diversify their suppliers and to remember they were small when they started operations. When he started his company in 1978, he didn't have the credit facilities of larger companies, he said. "I learned to manage cash and pay attention to my employees and my clients," said Cressman, also a Navy veteran. "We provide a consistent quality and attention to detail, the mantra I learned in the military." He said his company used to support the operations of companies such as Clayton Williams Energy and Reliance Energy, which have been acquired by larger companies. His company is not able to truly serve the dominant producers in the Permian Basin the Chevrons, Conchos, Diamondbacks because their needs are so vast. "Our mission is to tell our story," said Cressman. "We hope to show there is a place in the energy industry for an American-, veteran-owned firm." Are too many black and Hispanic students incorrectly diagnosed with disabilities and sent to special education classes, where they run the risk of receiving a substandard education? Federal policy is built around the idea that this problem of disproportionality exists and that school districts need to actively guard against it. Newer research has countered the idea that some minority groups are overidentified for special education. Instead, this research states that black and Hispanic students are actually less likely to be enrolled in special education than white peers with similar academic achievement and behavior, meaning that those minority students may be missing out on the help they need to succeed. Now, a new study, looking at a decades worth of student records in Florida, offers additional nuance to the debate. The data links educational records to the birth records of every child born in the state between 1992 and 2002 for which kindergarten and 4th grade records were availablesome 869,000 children. The researchers were able to control for a wealth of health and economic factors, such as birth weight, complications during delivery, the educational level of the mother, and language spoken at home. That means they could compare children who were similar in all factors except for their race or ethnicity. The study showed that overall, black and Hispanic students are identified for special education at lower rates than white students who are otherwise similar to them. That fits in with the latest findings. But where those students attend school seemed to play a large role. Black and Hispanic students were more likely to be identified with disabilities when they attended schools that had a mostly white population. But black and Hispanic students were substantially underidentified with disabilities when they attended schools where the student body was mostly black or Hispanic. That trend was particularly evident for black children. For example, the researchers in this study found that a black 4th grader who attended a school that was more than 90 percent minority was 9 percentage points less likely to be identified for special education than a similar black student in a school that is mostly white. For black students, the difference was linked primarily to diagnoses of specific learning disabilities; for Hispanic students, the difference was connected to diagnoses of speech and language impairments. A Deeper Look at Special Education Identification The study, School Segregation and Racial Gaps in Special Education Identification was published in May by the National Bureau of Economic Research. Studies published on NBER are circulated for discussion and comment, but have not been peer reviewed. So what could this mean for school policy? The researchers were not able to tell, based on their data, whether minority students are being wrongly identified in mainly white schools, or being incorrectly passed over for identification in predominantly minority schools. Theres no number that indicates what the correct identification rate should be, said Scott Imberman, a professor of economics and education at Michigan State University and one of the studys authors. But the study offers some evidence that rules out economics alone as a cause of these disparities. In other words, it doesnt appear that black students are underidentified at minority schools due to those schools being underresourced. The study found, for example, that black students were more likely to be identified as gifted in mostly minority schools than they were in mostly white schools. If resources alone were a problem, one might expect gifted rates at those schools to also be low. With such a tangled web of possible causes and correlations, the findings suggest that lawmakers should rethink current policy about special education bias, Imberman said. If we are going to use [the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act] to deal with disproportionality, do we want to be accounting for certain aspects of students background when we do that? Imberman said. He believes the answer is yes, though right now, states are not required to make those kinds of calculations. And though this study looked only at Florida, its likely that there are similar complexities and complications in other states, he said. It may not work the exact same way [in other states], but its hard to believe that the complexity is not there, he said. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 28) Reelected Davao del Norte 1st District Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez claimed that two of his fellow contenders for the top post at the House of Representatives have supposedly thrown cash at lawmakers in a bid to secure votes. Sinabi sa akin ng mga kasamahan ko, mayroong nag-offer ng 500,000 per congressman and then sinagot naman tig-1 million per congressman," Alvarez told CNN Philippines' The Source on Tuesday. [Translation: My colleagues told me that someone offered 500,000 per congressman, and then this was countered by another camp with 1 million per congressman.] Alvarez said lawmakers who accept the offer would immediately sign a manifestation of support. He said he has seen the manifestation, which already has around 100 signatures. "Nawawalan din ako ng gana dahil nga pagka ganyan, siyempre, obviously, mayroon talagang funder yan, 'di ba dahil ang laking pera eh, Alvarez said. [Translation: Im also losing my appetite if there are things like that, because obviously, they have funders as they have huge amounts of money.] He refused to identify who the lawmakers offering cash were. Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Jay Velasco, one of those aspiring for the speakership, has denied bribing lawmakers to support him. "Boss, wala akong ganoong kalaking pera. [Sir, I don't have that kind of money,]" Velasco said. The lawmaker threw a birthday party for President Rodrigo Duterte at the posh Sofitel Manila hotel in Pasay City last year. The coalition of party-lists, the second largest voting bloc in the House, also said that no one from their group has been offered money to support a candidate for Speaker. "It cheapens the position of the speakership. Mali. Pangit pakinggan [It's wrong. It sounds off,]" said Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin, the bloc's spokesperson. Despite his allegations, Alvarez, who is gunning again for the speakership despite having been ousted by a House dominated by members of his party, is not yet conceding as he expects the tide to turn in favor of whoever President Rodrigo Duterte supports. Kahit wala kang numbers ngayon ... Pag halimbawa nagparamdam na yung Pangulo na ikaw na yung napupusuan, magbabago lahat yan, he said. [Translation: Even if you dont have numbers now If, for example, the President hints that he wants you as Speaker, everything will change.] He added that the manifestation of support is not binding and that the final verdict on who gets to be the next Speaker would be out after congressmen vote for their leader on the floor when Congress resumes in July. Malacanang has insisted that it is all up to the House to pick its next leader and Duterte has yet to publicly announce who he would back for Speaker. Alvarez and his fellow Partido Demokratiko Pilipino Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) members expect that their chairman, Duterte, will pick among him, Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Jay Velasco and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Dong Gonzales. However, Alvarez said it is also possible that Duterte picks a speakership bet from outside the party, like Taguig 1st District Rep.-elect Alan Peter Cayetano who hails from the Nacionalista Party which is allied with PDP-Laban. Garbin said Duterte should make his choice for Speaker known to quell vote buying rumors. Of the speakership bets, Velasco has claimed that he has the support of Duterte and his daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, who the President said was behind the coup that ousted Alvarez after the his third State of the Nation Address. Mayor Duterte said she has a personal pick to become Speaker, but would rather not announce it. I am only the Mayor of Davao City. I am not the correct person to endorse someone to be the next Speaker, she said in a statement. In the same statement, the Davao City mayor denied that she has recommended for House Speaker Leyte 1st District Rep.-elect Martin Romualdez, who is the president of Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats, the former political party of Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The Davao City Mayor also said that she declined Alvarez offer of reconciliation and confirmed that Taguig 1st District Rep.-elect Alan Peter Cayetano did not seek her endorsement. She did not comment on Velasco. Outgoing Senator Loren Legarda, who was elected Antique representative, has also expressed intention to run for Speaker. Meanwhile, the Presidents son, incoming Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte, has quashed rumors that he will run for Speaker. The President also threatened to resign if he gunned for the speakership. CNN Philippines Correspondent Xianne Arcangel contributed to this report. A man has been arrested after the body of a 13-year-old Massachusetts girl was brought Monday into a hospital emergency room, according to WCVB. The Essex District Attorneys Office said the girl was brought to the Lawrence General Hospital emergency room at 4:47 p.m. and pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The family identified the girl as Chloe Ricard, of Amesbury. On Saturday, officials announced that Carlos Rivera, 47, was arrested on charges of giving drugs to a minor and indecent assault and battery on a child. Rivera allegedly brought Ricard to the hospital, accompanied by another girl under the age of 16. Ricard and the other girl were at Rivera's apartment in Lawrence on Sunday night and most of Monday, according to investigators. "Chloe was a great kid. She was pretty smart. She was bright. She was beautiful," stepfather Brian Dolan said. "Just the wrong place with the wrong people." Dolan told WCVB that the family learned the news when a friend called them saying the teen was at the hospital. "The lady at the hospital told me, she goes, 'You know she had no pulse when they brought her here,'" Dolan said. "And as soon as I heard that, I was like, 'What? You got to be kidding.'" Her family said she stayed at a friends house Sunday night, but they have no idea how she died. The cause and manner of Ricard's death is under investigation. "Who can do that? Who can take and just dump her? Its just the most horrific act," Deborah Goldsmith-Dolan, the girl's mother, said. Nurses reportedly told Goldsmith-Dolan her daughter had been "thrown" out of the car, and that they tried to resuscitate her but there was nothing they could do. BREAKING NEWS | ALERTS Find out first: Get breaking news sent directly to your inbox. See More Collapse The heartbroken mother is now pleading for answers. "You took my daughter away, my baby, she was my everything," she said. "I want people to be held accountable. I want them to feel the pain I'm feeling." Goldsmith-Dolan said Ricard was an eighth grader at Solstice Day School in Rowley. She said her daughter had lingering trouble with her fathers death five years ago. "Our hearts go out to this family, and we are cooperating fully with the police investigation," Lawrence General Hospital said in a statement. Abell Junior High eighth-grader Amulya Ganta is in Washington, D.C., this week, preparing to compete in the 92nd Scripps National Spelling Bee against 566 students from around the world. This is the third consecutive year an Abell student has represented this region at the bee. An initial 11 million students competed in smaller competitions to make it to the nationals, according to the Scripps website. Students will come to compete from all 50 states and other countries, including Germany, South Korea and Canada. The competition began Monday morning with the first round of the preliminaries. All 567 students will take a written test at the Maryland Ballroom of the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center. The scores on the written test will be used to determine the finalists. The written test will have 26 multiple-choice questions on spelling and vocabulary. The onstage competition begins with round two at 7 a.m. CDT today. Round three will begin late this afternoon. Spellers will be divided into five competition groups for rounds two and three. Ganta speller No. 547 will participate with group five. The group is set to begin its rotation at 2 p.m. CDT Tuesday for round two and 1:45 p.m. CDT Wednesday for round three. Finalists for Thursdays two-part competition will be announced immediately after group five finishes round three. Part one of the finals begins at 9 a.m. CDT, and part two begins at 7:30 p.m. RELATED: Abell seventh-grader wins spelling bee title Rounds two and three will be broadcast live on ESPN 3; part one of finals will be broadcast live on ESPN 2 and Part 2 of finals will be broadcast live on ESPN. Before heading to the bee, the 12-year-old Ganta, of Odessa, and her mother, Sapna Reddy Ganta, stopped by the Reporter-Telegram to answer a few questions: Midland Reporter-Telegram: What was your experience coming back to school after winning regionals? Ganta: Everyone was giving me newspapers, and all my teachers were congratulating me, because Abell won the two years prior. Im glad I got to keep that for them. MRT: Now that its only a couple weeks away, how are you feeling about the Scripps? Ganta: Nervous. Im scared. Im studying a lot, but Im still scared. MRT: What have been some of your studying habits? Ganta: I study from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. everyday. For round two, I wrote down all the words (from the bee website) in my book and went over them at least two times because there are 600 words, then I wrote down the definitions, and when Im done with them, I study root words. I have to know the definitions in case I dont know the pronunciation of it that way I can still spell it. I go through a packet every day of common words. I read my brothers dictionary, occasionally. Ill skip the words I know but go over the words I dont know. Ive also taken so many practice tests. Reddy Ganta: She studies hard a couple hours every day. Theres no set time. Its hard with school and other activities. But whenever she grabs a few minutes here and there, she is always trying to catch up on words and things like that. Its there on her mind. MRT: What is your goal for the spelling bee? Ganta: To make it past round 3. You have to have a really, really, really high score from the prelims test to even make it to the finals. MRT: How is the family feeling about the trip? Reddy Ganta: I think we will be nervous, but Im not going to be a parent that says, Youve gotta do this, or else were all going to be disappointed. Its a good experience for her. Shell be on national stage. We just want her to have different opportunities and see the world out there, so were happy that shes making it. If she succeeds, thats great. The other kids who go there have been studying for it for two years, so its important we go with realistic expectations; otherwise it puts unnecessary pressure on her. Its good to just be grounded and tell her to do her best. The whole experience is going to be amazing, and its just going to enrich her viewpoint of things and make a good motivation for the future. MRT Media: Do you have any other plans for D.C.? Reddy Ganta: My sister-in-law lives in New Jersey. We will go by to visit her. We havent looked through them yet, but there are a lot of activities available for the spellers, like nighttime tours of monuments. The whole trip is going to be really busy with her there, among 566 students and their families. Ganta: I really want to go to the Ben and Jerrys while Im there. --- How finalists are chosen The finalists in the Scripps National Spelling bee will be determined based on a scoring system that combines points earned from the written test and oral spelling. Spellers can receive up to 36 points during preliminaries. Thirty points can be obtained in the written test and three points can be earned in rounds two and three for correctly spelling the word given that round. Spellers won't be eliminated for providing an incorrect answer on the written test; there is immediate elimination if the speller incorrectly spells in rounds two or three. Scores will be determined for spellers who remain after the third round is complete. Beginning at 36 points, spellers are added at each consecutive scoring level until no more than 50 competitors have been selected. The remaining will be eliminated and tied for the same place. Source: spellingbee.com What's at stake The 2019 Scripps National Spelling Bee champion receives: --a $50,000 cash prize and engraved trophy from the Scripps National Spelling Bee --a $2,500 cash prize and reference library from Merriam-Webster --$400 of reference works from Encyclopdia Britannica --a trip to New York City to appear on the syndicated program "Live with Kelly and Ryan" --a trip to Hollywood to appear on ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" James Durbin This years appropriations bill included funding for the expansion of the PA program at Midland College, $20 million for facilities associated with the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center program and tens of millions for road improvements in counties in energy industry-intensive regions, state Rep. Tom Craddick told the Reporter-Telegram this weekend as the Texas Legislature session neared its end. Craddick said that the TTUHSCs physician assistants program will receive the funding to enlarge the program from 60 to 120 students. Also, he said that while legislators made a decision not to approve tuition revenue bonds (TRBs), there is $20 million set aside for facilities expansion related to the program. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 28) Malacanang has certified the bill to raise excise taxes on tobacco products as urgent, in a last-ditch effort to get the measure passed before Congress adjourns next week. The Senate and the House of Representatives have roughly five session days left before the end of the 17th Congress, which would leave all other pending bills back to zero come the entry of new lawmakers by June 30. Congress officially adjourns June 7. Plenary sessions are usually held Monday to Wednesday. The Department of Finance and the Department of Health are now strongly lobbying for the Senate to pass its version of a bill that will further raise the "sin" tax on cigarettes and other tobacco products. The proposal, coupled with a similar move to raise duties on alcoholic drinks, is meant to raise about 62 billion which will then fund the universal health care program recently signed by President Rodrigo Duterte. The proposal to raise taxes on alcohol products remain pending at the committee level in Senate. Finance Assistant Secretary Antonio Joselito "Tony" Lambino II is more optimistic, but other advocates remain unsure about the fate of the cigarette tax bill. "I think we have a very good chance at passing the measure kung ang timeline ay masunod," Lambino said during the Pandesal Forum on Tuesday. "Kumpleto naman yung mga boto natin sa tingin ko [I think we have enough votes]... which means kailangang matapos 'yung period of interpellation and amendments sana by today." On Tuesday afternoon, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra announced that the proposal has been certified as urgent by the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office. Guevarra has been designated as officer-in-charge by Duterte as he attends a business forum in Tokyo, Japan. An urgent bill means the Senate can vote on the measure on second and third readings in one go, doing away with the three-day gap in between plenary approvals as required by Congressional rules. The bill is under plenary debates in the Senate since Monday, as sponsored by Senator Juan Edgardo "Sonny" Angara. Even he is unsure about the chances of the proposal, but said that he is "hopeful" about passing the bill "before we adjourn next week." "Not sure about the numbers right now," Angara told CNN Philippines in a text message. There are still five senators lined up to question the provisions of the bill at the plenary: Richard Gordon, Ralph Recto, Panfilo Lacson, Sherwin Gatchalian, and Franklin Drilon. But Anthony Leachon, president of the Manila Doctors Hospital and a former director of the state-run Philippine Health Insurance Corp., is skeptical given the small window for the bill to clear the legislative mill. He added that June 6 will also be one less work day due to the Eid'l Fitr holiday. "Therefore, unless mag-overtime sila ng Thursday and Friday this week para sa ganun makapag-bakasyon ka ng June 6, wala na po. Ang deadline natin, dapat June 5 ay meron na tayong dapat i-forward sa Malacanang at primahan ni Presidente," said Leachon, who has been leading health advocates in pushing for the measure. [Translation: Therefore, unless they go overtime with extra sessions on Thursday and Friday this week, it's over. Our deadline is by June 5, the Senate should already have a bill ready to be forwarded to Malacanang for the President to sign into law.] The House of Representatives has already approved its version of the bill in December 2018. The measure will gradually raise the tax on cigarettes from 37.50 per pack by July 1 of this year to 45 per pack by July 1, 2022. After this, the rate will be increased by four percent yearly. The Senate version proposes higher duties: it will jack up the excise tax on cigarette packs from 45 by Jan. 1, 2020 to 60 by 2022. The following year, the tax will rise by five percent annually. The measure combines three proposals filed by Senators Emmanuel Pacquiao, Joseph Victor "JV" Ejercito, and Sherwin Gatchalian, but takes the lowest tax increase being proposed. Ejercito's bill was asking for a 90 per pack tax for cigarettes. Pacquiao's version was once certified as urgent by Malacanang earlier this year. Still, Leachon said there could be just enough time to get the measure through, as House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has said she is willing to adopt the Senate version to do away with the bicameral committee session. But he worries as to whether or not they have enough votes in the plenary to carry the bill through. Leachon recalls that the Sin Tax Reform Law of 2012 went down to the wire when it was tackled by the Senate in that year, earning 10 yes and nine no votes on second reading. The bill eventually cleared third reading with a 15-2 vote, paving the way for its enactment. Then Senator Joker Arroyo and Senator Francis Escudero opposed. Escudero also did not sign the latest committee report prepared by Angara. Now, 12 out of 18 members of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means signed the updated version of the higher sin tax bill. There are currently 23 senators. Cass County Sheriff ARRESTS, CITATIONS Bryan W. Pena, 18, of 146 Division St., Chandlerville, was booked into the Morgan County jail at 5:50 a.m. Monday on a burglary charge. Morgan County Sheriff ARRESTS, CITATIONS Richard De Jesus, 49, of 262 W. Beardstown St., Virginia, was booked into the Morgan County jail at 1:42 p.m. Monday on a charge of leaving the scene of an accident. Jacksonville Police ARRESTS, CITATIONS Andrae P. Anderson, 37, of Springfield was booked into the Morgan County jail at 12:54 a.m. Sunday on charges of resisting a peace officer, driving under the influence, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, improper lighting and stop or yield sign violation. BURGLARIES, THEFTS Several electronic items were taken from Harmony Drive between Thursday and 7 p.m. Saturday, according to a report filed at 7:05 p.m. Saturday. Several items were taken from a business in the 1100 block of West Morton Avenue between 2:37 a.m. and 3:03 a.m. Sunday, according to a report filed at 3:03 a.m. Sunday. Several items were taken from the 900 block of East Independence Street between 4:30 and 7 p.m. Sunday, according to a report filed at 7:27 p.m. Sunday. South Jacksonville Police ARRESTS, CITATIONS Brandon V. Jordan, 32, of 1621 Chilton Ave. was booked into the Morgan County jail at 5:26 a.m. Monday on charges of aggravated battery, resisting a peace officer and disorderly conduct. OTHER REPORTS A vehicle was vandalized while parked at a house in the 1600 block of South West Street, according to a report filed at 6:45 p.m Sunday. Pike County Sheriff ARRESTS, CITATIONS Leslie D. Blackstun, 31, of Hannibal, Missouri, was arrested at 8:12 p.m. May 20 on charges of obstructing identification, delivery of cannabis and possession of methamphetamine. Timothy K. Mooney, 25, of Milton was arrested at 1:31 a.m. May 22 on a charge of driving under the influence. Yolonda D. Sydnor, 39, of Hannibal, Missouri, was arrested at 8:11 p.m. May 22 on charges of operating an uninsured motor vehicle and having no valid registration and on an unspecified Marion County, Missouri, warrant. Molly E. White, 25, of Hardin was arrested at 7 p.m. May 21 on a domestic battery charge. Alicia K. Niffen, 29, of Pleasant Hill was arrested at 2:29 p.m. May 21 on a petition to revoke. Ruben Nicolascu, 30, of Evergreen Park was arrested at 1:32 a.m. May 20 on charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of cannabis. Antony Q. Burns, 30, of New Salem was arrested at 5:23 p.m. May 20 on a petition to revoke. Deshaun J. Ellis, 19, of Jackson, Mississippi, was arrested at 9:05 p.m. May 18 on a charge of unlawful use of a weapon and on a Jackson, Mississippi, murder warrant. Qindarius D. Ellis, 22, of Jackson, Mississippi, was arrested at 9:05 p.m. May 18 on a charge of unlawful use of a weapon. Sean T. Mitchell, 24, of Chicago was arrested at 1:59 a.m. May 18 on a possession of a controlled substance charge. Michiel J. Inness, 49, of Hannibal, Missouri, was arrested at 11:12 p.m. May 17 on charges of driving while license is suspended or revoked and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Elijah B. Spears, 33, of Louisiana, Missouri, was arrested at 9:23 p.m. May 17 on a possession of a controlled substance charge. Noel B. Christison, 31, of Barry was arrested at 11:04 a.m. May 17 on a revocation of bond. Richard J. Wright, 66, of Dallas City was arrested at 12:28 p.m. May 16 on a petition to revoke. Joshua A. Wombles, 29, of Rockport was arrested at 1:43 a.m. May 16 on a driving under the influence charge. Leroy S. Stice, 27, of Meredosia was arrested at 5:44 p.m. May 15 on a charge of driving while license is suspended or revoked and on a Scott County warrant accusing him of failing to appear in court. Jedd S. Moore, 58, of Pearl was arrested at 6:12 p.m. May 15 on a battery charge. Hunter W. Abney, 19, of Nebo was arrested at 4:14 p.m. May 14 on a charge of operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Angelica R. Barrett, 22, of Pearl was arrested at 1:51 p.m. May 14 on a revocation of bond. Cheyenne R. Betts, 26, of Hull was arrested at 10:51 a.m. May 14 on a petition to revoke. Ethan D. Poor, 27, of Rockport was arrested at 9:03 p.m. May 14 on a charge of operating a motor vehicle while registration is suspended. Glen H. Dempsey, 53, of Louisiana, Missouri, was arrested at 10:54 a.m. May 14 on a petition to revoke. Joshua D. Smith, 36, of Baylis was arrested at 4:41 p.m. May 13 on theft and possession of methamphetamine charges. Martie W. Gibson, 62, of Pittsfield was arrested at 3:14 p.m. May 13 on a criminal trespassing to land charge. Compiled by David C.L. Bauer and Rosalind Essig Let me tell you about the very rich. They are different from you and me. They possess and enjoy early, and it does something to them, makes them soft where we are hard, and cynical where we are trustful, in a way that, unless you were born rich, it is very difficult to understand. F. Scott Fitzgerald . Gov. J.B. Pritzker is a man who was born rich and will die rich. The heir to Hyatt hotel fortune would have us believe he wants to rewrite the state constitution to raise income taxes just on swells like himself - and nobody else. Its a cynical argument. What Gov. Pritzker and his legislative supporters really are trying to do is eliminate a constitutional protection. If you are like me, youve heard the Fair Tax commercials many times by now. But we all know you have to take advertising, particularly political advertising with a grain of salt. But that doesnt mean we always do. Just last week, I installed two toilets in my house that are advertised by Koehler to be clog free. Within a week, my three daughters managed to stop up both, twice. Unfortunately, when we are misled by political advertising, there isnt a plunger to make the mess go away. If the progressive tax passes, it will be stinking up the state for a long time. While Ive spent most of my career in Illinois, Ive also been a reporter in Iowa, Ohio, Texas and Nevada. Two of those states have progressive income taxes and two have no income tax at all. In itself, a progressive income tax is not unworkable, but in the context of Illinois it would be devastating. Before anyones income tax is raised, Illinois needs meaningful and permanent property tax relief. Illinois already has the highest property taxes in the nation and there is no serious proposal in Springfield to reduce them. Add on an increase in income taxes and the overall tax burden for middle class families would be overwhelming. But arent the commercials saying only rich people will have to pay more under this plan? Yes. Politicians are asking you to trust them. But can you think of anything Springfield politicians have done during the past thirty years that gives you reason to trust them? I cant think of anything, either. And Ive spent many years covering them. Just taxing wealthy people wont generate enough money to fund the programs that Pritzker and his cronies in the legislature want. That means tax hikes will inevitably metastasize deep into the middle-class. As F. Scott Fitzgerald noted 93 years ago, The very rich are different than you and me. It doesnt matter if they call themselves liberal or conservative, they all embrace tax-avoidance strategies. Earlier this month, our billionaire president called gaming the tax system sport. As we all know, Pritzker sloughed off $330,000 he owed in property taxes onto other people by removing toilets from one of his mansions and calling it uninhabitable. Despite his current rhetoric that only rich folks should have their taxes hiked, he hasnt been reticent to engage in a bit of chicanery of his own to make taxpayers earning a lot less than he pay more. He ought to practice what he preaches. And tax avoidance goes well beyond toilets. A few years back, I worked for a man who had five homes scattered from California to Paris. How hard do you think it would be for a rich fellow like that to simply change his official state of residence to someplace else and not pay a dime to the state? Not hard at all. And for others, the answer to higher taxes will be to move. After all, when the tax burden exceeds the cost of moving, little incentive remains to stay. When either of these things happen, someone will have to make up the difference and the way the proposed constitutional amendment is written, it offers no protection to the middle class. Our taxes will go up too. If Pritzker really didnt want to tax middle-class people, his constitutional amendment would say just that. But it doesnt. For decades, our Springfield lawmakers have exhibited little financial restraint, making Illinois the fiscal basket case of the nation. Now the political power brokers are looking for a way out of the mess they have made. The Illinois Senate already has endorsed putting the amendment on the 2020 ballot and the House is expected to vote on it this week. Since House Speaker Mike Madigan wants it to pass, it will. And then, it will be the voters who decide. Dont be misled by slick commercials; the so-called fair tax opens the door for middle class tax hikes. Scott Reeder is a veteran statehouse journalist and a freelance reporter. He can be reached at ScottReeder1965@gmail.com. Last week, the Trump administration announced the removal of steel and aluminum tariffs on our North American neighbors, Mexico and Canada, alleviating a burden on our agriculture producers and removing a barrier for passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. With this positive step forward, now is the time for Congress to act and pass USMCA. This latest move signals that relief for our agriculture industry, who have endured a wet spring and low commodity prices, is on the horizon. If bipartisanship prevails, and with the passage of USMCA, Illinois top industry and our farming families will be able to take a deep breath as we take a big step forward by modernizing the North American Free Trade Agreement. Historically, trade with our neighbors has been a success story and the USMCA strengthens these relationships. From 1993 to 2017, exports to Canada and Mexico tripled from $27 billion to $91 billion, with nearly one-third of U.S. agricultural exports going to Mexico and Canada in 2017. Aside from modernizing the 25-year-old NAFTA, current terms that have been negotiated for the USMCA would increase US agricultural exports to Canada and the rest of the world by $2.2 billion, with $435 million of that estimated to come from just increased market access. Illinois particularly has much to gain from passage of USMCA. Canada and Mexico are responsible for a 29 percent and a 14 percent market share of all Illinois exports, respectively. For Illinois agriculture, Canada accounts for 18 percent of all Illinois agricultural exports and Mexico accounts for 10 percent. With Canada and Mexico, alone, Illinois farmers export 40 percent of their corn, 13 percent of their beef and 34 percent of their pork to the two countries. As the nations top soybean producer and a leader in corn production, as well, market accessibility is key to getting Illinois commodities around the globe. If passed, USMCA will expand that access for agriculture producers and manufacturers, allowing them to better reach customers in North America. Under the new USMCA, more corn and soybeans will be sold to Mexico and Canada. With agriculture as Illinois top industry, its easy to focus solely on our famers, but in reality, the USMCA is more than just ag. This is also about building on a record economy. USMCA will increase US real GDP by $68.2 billion and create 176,000 U.S. jobs, according to the U.S. International Trade Commission helping manufacturers and small business. The time is now to pass the USMCA. Delay only hurts our farmers, job creation, and our economy. With tariffs now removed, Republicans and Democrats must come to the table to pass this agreement. The USMCA means relief to farmers, it means jobs, and it means opportunity for Americans across the board, especially those in Illinois. The time to act is nowdoing so will expand economic opportunity for the agriculture community in our state. Failing to do so, will make worse the current uncertainty our farmers are feeling. Its time Congress work in a bipartisan fashion to get USMCA across the finish line and support the agriculture community in Illinois. Rep. Darin LaHood is congressman for Illinoiss 18th District. Richard Guebert is Illinois Farm Bureau president. Wives can sue their spouses for ... Danbury, Conn. Presidential biographer Edmund Morris, best known for writing a book about the life of Ronald Reagan in 1999, has died. He was 78. Morris' wife, Sylvia Jukes Morris, confirmed his death to The Associated Press on Monday, saying he died Friday in a hospital in Danbury, a day after suffering a stroke. "We at Random House mourn this loss with all who knew him and loved him, and with those who read his remarkable books. Our deepest sympathies are with his beloved wife Sylvia," read a statement from Andy Ward, Morris' editor. Morris' career took off with the success of his first book, "The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt," which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1980. But what cemented his legacy was "Dutch: A Memoir of Ronald Reagan." The book earned mixed reviews in part because he inserted himself into the narrative as a sometimes-fictional character to help tell the former president's story. Years before the book's publication, he called Reagan "the most mysterious man I have ever confronted." Morris started working on his Reagan biography more than a decade before it published. "I went through a period of a year or so of depression because I felt that with all my research, how come I can't understand the first thing about him?" Morris said of Reagan. But Morris also praised Reagan for allowing him so much access and independence to write the book. "He had the guts to let somebody come in from outside, stare at him, read his mail, go off and talk to his children?" Morris said. "Whatever you say about Ron Reagan, he has guts." Morris was born in Nairobi, Kenya, the son of South African parents. He was educated in Kenya and attended college in South Africa, according to his brief bio on the Penguin Random House website. He moved to Britain in 1964 and found work as a copywriter in London. After the success of his Roosevelt biography, he wrote a sequel titled "Theodore Rex." Morris' upcoming book, "Edison," is being published by Random House on Oct. 22. The owner of San Antonios celebrated Papas Burgers is getting into the barbecue business with a new concept on the North Side that will focus on a tight sandwich lineup designed to cater to grab-and-go diners. Papas Quickdraw BBQ is set to open June 18 at 12054 Blanco Road, across the street from Winston Churchill High School. The menu will feature smoked chunky brisket, pulled pork and chicken sandwiches mixed with a sweet house barbecue sauce served with pickles and grilled onions on the same soft, kolache-style buns served with the Papas burgers. When we were testing this out, I went to different barbecue restaurants and ordered a simple chopped sandwich it would take five minutes or more to get it, owner Robert Walker said. Our model is to have the product ready and serve out the quickest barbecue in all the area. Everything is built around speed. Quickdraw BBQ is drive-thru service only, and sandwiches can be paired with a lineup of four types of kettle potato chips and canned sodas. And thats it. On ExpressNews.com: Up in smoke: Exposing the myths of the barbecue world The meats will be smoked off-site by pitmaster Jesse Tindall of Tindall BBQ. Tindall and Walker have partnered multiple times throughout the years on catering jobs. The barbecue sandwiches have been tested and sold off and on at Papas Burgers for about a year as a special menu option. The plans were pretty much drawn up on the side of a truck, Walker said. Everything transpired very quickly once we found the space. Walker said that once Quickdraw BBQ gets up and running, additional sandwiches such as sausage and turkey may be offered as long as they can be prepared quickly. There also are plans to carpet the San Antonio area with up to 10 locations in coming years. Papas Quickdraw BBQ, 12054 Blanco Road, 210-642-8822. Hours (staring June 18): 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Facebook: Papas-Quickdraw-BBQ Chuck Blount is a food writer and columnist covering all things grilled and smoked in the San Antonio area. Find his Chuck's Food Shack columns on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com, or read his other coverage on our free site, mySA.com. | cblount@express-news.net | Twitter: @chuck_blount | Instagram: @bbqdiver The period of hot, muggy weather could finally give way to rain later this week, as meteorologists predict a 50 percent chance of thunderstorms in Houston on Thursday. Don't expect any major relief from the heat. Regardless of the precipitation, high temperatures of 88 to 91 degrees are in the forecast through Sunday, according to the National Weather Service forecast. A teen died Monday evening following a shooting at his home east of downtown, police say. San Antonio police called to the 200 block of Blue Bonnet Street around 9 p.m. found a Hispanic teen between the ages of 17 and 19 with a gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The boys father and uncle told police that they were asleep when they heard the gunshot. The father walked to his sons bedroom, where he found his wounded teen standing in the doorway. The father said he led the boy to his bed and called 911. San Antonio Police Sgt. Roger Cavazos said the investigation is ongoing and it is unclear if the gunshot was self-inflicted or if there could be a suspect at large. Emilie Eaton is a criminal justice reporter in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | eeaton@express-news.net | Twitter: @emilieeaton A 14-year-old boy was charged Monday in connection to the fatal shooting of a woman and her pregnant daughter last month on the South Side, according to police. The teenage suspect, who is not being identified by authorities, was already in a juvenile detention center for aggravated robbery when detectives walked his warrant on the capital murder of multiple persons charge. The butterfly effect: what one species miraculous comeback can teach us Guardian (David L) More fishing vessels chasing fewer fish, new study finds PhysOrg (Lance N). Quelle surprise :-( Stunning Satirical Sand Sculpture Wins Texas Competition Geek (David L) Wow, What Is That? Navy Pilots Report Unexplained Flying Objects New York Times and Navy Pilots Are Seeing UFOs on an Almost-Daily Basis: Report New York Magazine (David L) NASA Will Carry Your Name On a Chip To Mars The Verge Under the dome: Fears Pacific nuclear coffin is leaking PhysOrg (Chuck L) What If We Could Reuse The Packaging on Consumer Products? AdAge This Crafty Robot Can Write in Languages Its Never Seen Before Wired (Robert M) Man dies on plane after ingesting 246 cocaine bags BBC WHO Officially Classifies Gaming Disorder As An Illness CNET The Atomic Soldiers: U.S. Veterans, Used as Guinea Pigs, Break the Silence Atlantic (David L, UserFriendly). Worlds Rivers Awash With Dangerous Levels of Antibiotics Guardian China? Japan To Limit Foreign Ownership of Firms in Its IT, Telecom Sectors Reuters India EU Elections Brexit Corbyn backs referendum on Brexit deal after voter exodus Guardian (furzy). The headline-writers get a gold star. Its frustrating to seem pols and the press refer to second referendum which when the EU and virtually all mentions in the UK prior to 2019 meant a redo of the 2016 referendum with a better question, now too often means a confirmatory referendum and I cant imagine the EU being willing to indulge that due to how much time and uncertainty it would entail. Britains Great Brexit Divide Gets Deeper Bloomberg New Cold War Syraqistan Big Brother is Watching You Watch Trump Transition Lindsey Graham proposes invading Venezuela Vox (resilc) 2020 The Worst 2020 Election Interference Will Be Perfectly Legal Caitlin Johnstone (UserFriendly) The Mass Media Is Poisoning Us With Hate Chris Hedges, TruthDig (RR) Bank bailouts propped up the financial system. But we should never repeat them. Shiela Bair, Washington Post Guillotine Watch Class Warfare Some Americans Have Fled The Country To Escape Student Loan Debt CNBC Antidote du jour. Lozza262: Hi, a stray cat came into my house in United Arab Emirates 6 weeks back and decided to have her kittens in my bedroom. Now theyre about 6 weeks old and super cute. I believe this is an Arabian Mau cat as most of the strays (and there are a lot in the UAE) are local Arabians. And a bonus (martha r): Family of harmless black bears pic.twitter.com/3NXjm9RVxr NativeAmericanSoul (@Nativeesoul) April 29, 2019 See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here. By L K Sharma, who has followed no profession other than journalism for more than four decades, covering criminals and prime ministers. He was the European Correspondent of The Times of India based in London for a decade. He reported for five years from Washington as the Foreign Editor of the Deccan Herald. He edited three volumes on innovations in India. He has completed a work of creative nonfiction on V. S. Naipaul His two e-books The Twain and A Parliamentary Affair form part of The Englandia Quartet. Originally published at openDemocracy Narendra Modis stunning victory in the parliamentary elections speaks volumes about the transformed India and an India keen to be transformed further. He defied the incumbency handicap to be crowned as Indias Prime Minister for a second term. He got the most impressive mandate despite his Governments dismal economic record, his unkept promises, mendacity, an unprecedented rise in bigotry and sustained low-level communal violence during the past five years. Elections are not won or lost because of one single factor. However, what mattered most to the voters and why they felt so enamoured of Modi became somewhat obvious. A more authentic assessment may be made by Donald Trumps election strategist. The rise of the two leaders calls for a composite study. The two have learned a lot from each other. Modis achievement is bigger because Indias economy faltered during his regime. Indian voters had several reasons to do what they did but perhaps most of them looked for and chose a Messiah determined to protect the endangered religious majority. Such voters want a devout Hindu to be the Prime Minister. They responded to the BJPs clarion call: Declare with pride that we are Hindus! From Hope to Fear Modis poll campaign in 2014 was about hope: this time it was about fear. In an atmosphere of fear, lynch mobs fear the other and the victims fear the perpetrators. There was no angry public response to the acts of commission by the Hindu vigilante groups and acts of omission by the state police. This neutralised warnings by intellectuals and opposition parties that Modis India was heading towards Fascism. The people accepted electoral authoritarianism for their security. Sustained propaganda by Modi and his party created religious polarisation. The fear that Muslims are coming led to the consolidation of the Hindu votes. The religious card of the Hindu nationalist party worked wonderfully well this time. An allied strand of this electoral strategy was the focus on Islamic Pakistan. Once an Indian Muslim terrorist killed para-military troops in Kashmir, the Modi campaign of toxic nationalism took off furiously. The voters were warned that they live in a nation threatened by enemies within and without. The Modi Government failed to prevent the killing of the para-military personnel in Kashmir by a terrorist. But Modis media management ensured that its criticism was not amplified. Such a killing during the Congress regime would have damned that Prime Minister. Modi in the opposition would have gone to town demanding his resignation for the Governments huge intelligence failure! Modi ordered a surgical strike into Pakistani territory, publicised it on a massive scale, highlighting his nationalistic credentials and macho image. His followers sang praises of the Modi army! Modi prevented any political harm resulting from his dismal performance on the economic front by distracting the voters attention from their economic woes. He harnessed their support for the greater cause of helping him to protect the nation! He avoided any reference to his 2014 promise of Good Days that never arrived. No new promise of economic nirvana was made. Understanding the Follies and Frailties Modi presented himself as a devout Hindu seeking to restore the glory of Hinduism by making it muscular and aggressive. Bigotry and toxic nationalism energised the BJPs election campaign. Millions followed him as they would follow a cult leader. In their eyes Modi could do no wrong. His failures, his divisive sectarian statements, his threats, uncivil remarks and lies only increased his popularity. The campaign for these elections was launched by Modi immediately after winning the last ones in 2014. A steady flow of communal poison kept dripping into the nations veins. The incidents of violence against minorities, rationalists, independent journalists and liberals have been well documented. The vigilantes marching behind the flag of Hindutva enjoyed considerable freedom while Modis critics faced threats and lived in an atmosphere of fear. Writers were the first to protest against the culture of enforced thinking introduced by the Modi regime. The dissenting writers were neutralised by a social media hate campaign. In any case, how many battalions does a writer command? However, the believers in majoritarianism alone could not have secured a record victory, so Modi wooed different voters with different messages. Some came to him because he appeared competent and efficient. Some believed he could not be corrupt because he does not live with his wife and has no progeny. Modis claim that he is a fakir was amplified by his acolytes, notwithstanding his valuable personal possessions and his very expensive and huge wardrobe. Many were persuaded by the repeated assertion that there was no alternative to Modi. Of course, Modi also offered political stability which is valued even by ordinary voters unless they are too dissatisfied by an outgoing regime. Thus, Modi sold himself even to many of those untouched by sectarianism. Modi came across as a dynamic and charismatic personality. He could mesmerise large audiences with dramatic gestures and sharp and satirical remarks against his opponents. Modi had access to record sums of money. He had the fullest support of the incentive-hungry business leaders ever ready to loosen their purse strings to expand his partys war chest. There was no level field in these elections. The ruling partys muscle power comprised millions of booth-level workers and a vast network of volunteers working selflessly for the RSS, a so-called cultural organisation. Modi commanded a subservient media that amplified the message of hate against his opponents and against a religious minority. However, for being able to coordinate the strands of a winning strategy the credit goes to the mind of Modi. Some may qualify his genius but he has proved time and again his understanding of the follies and frailties of human beings and of Indias social and religious fault-lines. He used his oratorical skills to exploit these fault-lines. Being a divisive figure, he has taken conflict to every home so politics has come to dominate social life. Modi creates confrontation and prospers. Onslaught Against Secularism Since religious polarisation could not fully bridge the caste differences, Modi devised a complex strategy to break up the political dominant castes. He wooed and won sub-castes to neutralise the opposition by that caste formation. With two powerful weapons of envy and resentment, he divided it by accentuating internal economic rivalry. This strategy saved Modi in a couple of states where he was challenged by the caste-based parties. The BJP thus firmed up the sub-caste identities. Modi had the big advantage of having an incompetent and divided opposition. He went after the enfeebled Congress and its young leader Rahul Gandhi because when it comes to an ideological war, the Congress is the only enemy. Most other opposition parties have flirted with Modis party in the past. Enshrined in Indias Constitution, secularism was so cherished by the masses that the communal political parties were kept out of power for decades. Modis party relentlessly attacked the secular parties for appeasing Muslims. In a society lacking in empathy, this propaganda influenced many Hindus and some of them even started holding the Muslims responsible for their economic misery. The Congress had no effective strategy to counter the onslaught against secularism. Modi derided the secularists and said that their days were numbered in a nation bubbling with Hindu pride. Hinduism scholars never protested against the BJP hijacking their faith for a political project and seeking to distort it. Hindu priests were either co-opted by the BJP or chose to remain silent. The Congress raised the issue of corruption by alleging that Modi favoured a private Indian company instead of a public sector firm while striking a deal with France for the Raffle aircraft for the Indian Air Force. It did no political harm to Modi even after many reports embarrassing the Government were published by one newspaper. Corruption becomes a big issue if a party is competent to exploit it. The Congress had miserably failed to publicise the economic achievements of its Manmohan Singh Government. Thus, the voters got convinced by Modis assertion that nothing was done in India till 2014. The young impatient and aggressive aspirational class truly believed what Modi said. Narendra Modi appointed prime minister, May 27, 2019. | unreguser/PA. All rights reserved. Natural Advantage In a confrontational election campaign, leaders like Modi have a natural advantage. The days of the gentleman-politician are over. The growing criminalisation of politics is reflected in the profile of the new Parliament. Politics has place only for crafty individuals. Some years ago, Modi could not have called his opponents anti-national Indians. Every critic of Modi is asked to go away to Pakistan. This propaganda stooped to its ugliest level in social media. Even after the Model Code of Conduct came into force and the Election Commission prohibited references to religion and the military in the campaign, the Prime Minister merrily ignored such advice. India witnessed the ghoulish act of shooting down Gandhis cardboard cut-out in a public square by a saffron-clad woman. It was gleefully video-graphed and circulated. The scene had the artificial blood flowing down after the gunshot from a toy pistol. Some Hindu nationalists have not forgiven Gandhi for his sin of appeasing the Muslims. The BJP fielded as its parliamentary candidate a terror-accused Hindu nun Sadhvi Pragya who is out on bail. She said she had cursed a police officer who had once investigated her in a Hindu terror case involving the killings of Muslims. This officer later died fighting Muslim terrorists and was widely hailed as a martyr. Sadhvi Pragya also applauded as a patriot the right-wing Hindu killer of Gandhi, Nathuram Godse. She won by an impressive margin and will now speak in Parliament on the India of her dreams. Modis mentor organisation RSS has the declared objective of establishing a Hindu nation. Its political wing, the BJP, proudly calls itself a Hindu nationalist party. Modi has a proven record of consolidating the Hindu voters. As the chief minister of the Gujarat state which witnessed sectarian killings on a massive scale during his rule, he was hailed as Hindu Hriday Samrat (Emperor of the Hindu Hearts). His poll strategy in 2014 demonstrated that the Muslims, notwithstanding their numbers, could be politically marginalised. So, some compulsions of democracy were gone as far as Modis party was concerned. Social media posts and statements by the BJP leaders had prepared the ground to instil the fear of a coming demographic disaster and the infiltration of the termites belonging to a different faith creeping into the nation. The BJP chief used the word termites while an official move was made to grant citizenship to all infiltrators barring the Muslims! Educated Indians can be heard talking of the coming Islamisation of India. It is not that an epidemic of bigotry hit India all of a sudden. A large number of Indians, like the people of other nations, had kept such sentiments suppressed for years. In the atmosphere created by a new kind of political leadership, the dam burst. Reading the election results, one has to say it wasnt the economy, stupid! Someone from a new breed of BJP intellectuals may write a tome titled Its the Muslims, stupid. He has a ready template in Its the Jews, stupid. (As delivered) Good afternoon. We have just finished a meeting with National Security Advisers and other senior officials. This meeting was the first of its kind at NATO. We reviewed what we are doing to counter hybrid threats. And we discussed what more we need to do. We discussed ways to improve our situational awareness, through better intelligence and information sharing. The very nature of hybrid threats is that they are disguised and deniable. So we have to ensure we can detect them. Good intelligence is good deterrence. And NATOs new Intelligence Division is already increasing our situational awareness. We also addressed the need to strengthen the resilience of national critical infrastructure. Such as telecommunications networks, 5G, under-sea cables, and space assets. And we will revise NATO guidelines for the protection of our critical infrastructure, including telecommunication infrastructure. We are now also working on an overarching space policy, another first for NATO. And next month, I expect NATO defence ministers will adopt our new space policy. We are boosting our cyber defences, including with a new Cyberspace Operations Centre. We see more frequent and complex cyber-attacks against our networks, which is why it is so important we continue to strengthen our cyber defences. We also discussed how we can better support Allies. We already have teams of experts ready to deploy to help Allies that request assistance in the face of hybrid and cyber attacks. Allies underscored the importance of stepping up our training and exercises to better prepare for hybrid threats. And today Allies shared their national experiences and best practices. The strengthening of our collective defence is also important. We have undertaken the biggest reinforcement since the Cold War. We have greater readiness, including for our special operations forces. And we have increased our military mobility. All this is important to deal with hybrid threats. Sir Julian King, the EU Commissioner for the Security Union, outlined the tools that the European Union has at its disposal. NATOs cooperation with the EU is important because hybrid is not just a military threat. We have seen a pattern of cyber-attacks against our countries. Disinformation campaigns. And attempts to interfere in our democracies. Many of our countries have suffered from different types of hybrid attacks. In isolation, we may not always be able to see the connections, the trends and the patterns. But together, we can connect the dots, and see the bigger picture. And together, we have the full range of tools to address these challenges. NATO must remain prepared for both conventional and hybrid threats: From tanks to tweets. Thank you. The sale of a University of Bristol spin-out company working on technology to develop next-generation insulin has won a global award. Ziylo was bought by pharmaceutical firm Novo Nordisk, who hope to develop the worlds first glucose-responsive insulin and transform the treatment of diabetes for millions of people around the world. The deal won Exit of the Year at the Global University Venturing Awards, beating stiff competition from Harvard University, UCL, John Hopkins University and the University of Twente. Founded in 2014, Ziylo designed synthetic glucose-binding molecules that react and adapt to glucose levels in the blood and thereby prevent dangerously low blood sugar levels, known as hypoglycaemia. The spin-out company was based on research by Anthony Davis, Professor of Supramolecular Chemistry, and PhD student Harry Destecroix, who went on to become the spinout's Chief Executive. The pair co-founded the business with Chief Financial Officer Tom Smart. The deal also included the formation of a new spinout, Carbometrics, that has licensed back rights to help Novo Nordisk optimise glucose-binding molecules and to develop non-therapeutic applications, including continuous glucose monitoring products. It will remain at the Unit DX science incubator in Bristol and remains closely associated with the University. Novo Nordisk hopes to start clinical trials within three years and will carry out its research and development activities in Oxford and in Denmark. Jaci Barnett, Head of Research Commercialisation at the University of Bristol, said: "We are delighted to win this award as a testament to the work undertaken both inside the University by the academic founders and the research commercialisation team, and outside the University by the commercial drivers and other stakeholders. "I particularly want to pay tribute to Ros Darby and Sue Sundstrom who started down the commercialisation pathway with this project. Exits such as these take a long time, a lot of money, and a lot of hard work from a diverse group of people, but this shows that it is possible and the more research results we can get out into society commercially or otherwise - the more impact we can make on the world." Keith MacDonald, former Chairman of Ziylo, said: "Our interactions with the University at the time of Ziylo's creation, during the life of the company and when it was sold to Novo Nordisk in 2018, always struck the right balance between the commercial imperatives driving the company's ambitions, the protection of the University's legitimate interests and the overriding importance of achieving scientific progress in the field of diabetes. "The successful sale of Ziylo brought financial benefits to the University and the company's other shareholders, which included all employees as well as enhancing Bristol's reputation as a centre for scientific innovation. "In the period since Ziylo's creation there has been an ever-increasing number of spin-outs and I am delighted that the contribution of the University's Research Commercialisation team has been duly recognised by this prestigious award." (Natural News) Some political observers, including this publication, have likened deep state figures who participated in the Spygate coup operation to depose POTUS Donald Trump to acts of treason, but before now no lawmaker has used the T word. That changed Sunday when Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, noted that statements by FBI agents allegedly investigating collusion between the 2016 Trump campaign and Russia sounded an awful lot like a coup, and it could well be treason. Thats a very powerful statement from a sitting U.S. congressperson, and certainly not something you hear everyday from Cheney. In an interview with ABC News Martha Raddatz on This Week, Cheney echoed the president and Attorney General William Barr, as well as several other Republican lawmakers, that the origins of the hoax investigation must itself be probed. We had people that are at the highest levels of our law enforcement saying that they were going to stop a duly-elected president of the United States, Cheney told Raddatz. That sounds an awful lot like a coup and it could well be treason. (Related: Treason: Docs PROVE Deep State hacks Obama, Comey, Brennan, and Clapper aided Russian efforts to divide Americans with Spygate.) Rep. Liz Cheney: "We had people that are at the highest levels of our law enforcement saying that they were going to stop a duly elected president of the United States." "That sounds an awful lot like a coup and it could well be treason," she adds https://t.co/tzEmm40vCp pic.twitter.com/RhAVMWRfBU ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) May 26, 2019 She also said that we need to know more about who else was involved, including fired FBI Director James Comey, fired FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, and other ranking officials within the Justice Department, the intelligence community, and throughout Barack Obamas inner circle and bureaucracy, The Hill reported. It wasnt just fired FBI counterintelligence official Peter Strzok and his paramour, Lisa Page, who were talking about stopping Trump from taking office; they were acting on behalf of someone else, or several someones. And each of them is equally guilty of an attempted coup. Think about the fact that we had people that are at the highest levels of our law enforcement in this nation saying that they were going to stop a duly-elected president of the United States, saying they needed an insurance policy against him, Cheney said. That is something that simply cannot happen. We have to have confidence in our law enforcement, and the attorney general has got to get to the bottom of what happened, how it was that those people were allowed to misuse and abuse their power that way, she added. The White House is fighting back It became obvious on Sunday that, just two days after POTUS Trump ordered all appropriate agencies to declassify all relevant documents related to the Spygate scandal, his surrogates and his allies were launching a full-court press to get the details out. In addition to Cheney, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders appeared on cable news programs Sunday to pronounce that the Trump administration already knows there was a substantial level of corruption at the highest levels of DoJ and the FBI. We already know that there was an outrageous amount of corruption that took place at the F.B.I. They leaked information. They lied. They were specifically working trying to take down the president, trying to hurt the president, Sanders said on NBCs Meet The Press, The Hill noted. Well leave the final call up to the attorney general and hell get to the bottom of it. But we think Americans deserve the truth. The presidents asked for that. And we should expect nothing less, she added. AG Barr now has all the authority he needs to look at and release whatever documents he feels are necessary in order to let Americans see exactly what was done, who did what, and why up to and including, hopefully, former President Obama, without whos approval Spygate could never have moved forward. The rats are already throwing each other under the bus, denying, and pointing fingers. As the heat gets turned up by AG Barr and his primary investigator, U.S. Attorney John Durham, expect the accusations to fly even more. Read more about Obamas deep state corruption at DeepState.news and Corruption.news. Sources include: TheHill.com Trump.news (Natural News) Two phenomena are becoming clear throughout the West today: 1) More and more people, in the U.S. and Europe, are realizing that globalism is a loser; and 2) The globalists and their allies are going all-out to hold on to power even if it means destroying their own continents. In Europe, for instance, following years of EU policy which essentially forced all member states to accept millions of poor, displaced, mostly Muslim migrants from North Africa and the war-torn Middle East, a growing majority of citizens are rejecting globalist policies and globalist parties at the ballot box. Beginning with the still-uncompleted Brexit vote in 2016 and culminating in European Union elections in which right-leaning or center-right politicians and parties gained a lot of ground over the past week. Reuters was typical of the mainstream that is, globalist press in downplaying these huge victories: Parties committed to closer European Union integration began bargaining over jobs and policy on Monday after an election to the EU parliament which fragmented the center but gave only limited gains to nationalists. But despite other wins for eurosceptics in big countries, including France, Poland and would-be ex-member Britain, the result was taken as a vote of confidence by mainstream leaders after turnout surged and nationalists advanced only modestly. Globalist mouthpieces for the EU also downplayed the historic results. (Related: WAKE UP: The real globalist plan isnt merely to overthrow America, but to overthrow Earth.) The European elections were tangible proof that European democracy is alive and well, said Margaritis Schinas, chief spokesman for the European Commission, in a statement to reporters. The populists didnt win this election. Really? Because it sure seems like they not only did win, but made substantial advances. In the U.S., meanwhile, the election of Donald Trump and the increasing likelihood that hes going to be reelected is proof that Americans are sick and tired of the globalist status quo. And yet, in most all mainstream reporting, you wouldnt know that a revolution is occurring and that said revolution is not only a good thing, but the natural result of people who are weary of being sold out to globalist interests at the expense of their own sovereignty and liberty. The globalists love democracy when they WIN As noted by Venture Beat, hardly a household name as a media outlet but on the globalist bandwagon nonetheless, even one of the elites primary social media entities, Facebook, is helping all of this freedom and liberty spread because its not authoritarian enough: News about Facebook in the week leading up to the European Union Parliamentary elections reinforced the image of a company unable to control a platform that has been hijacked by right-wing extremists. In an age of fake news, that lone paragraph has got to be some kind of award winner. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and all other major social media has been hijacked by Left-wing speech Nazis that are targeting the Right. But the people the people are hungry for change, and that is especially true in Europe, where socialism has stagnated economies, mass migration has diluted and is destroying cultures, and the globalist EU Left are doubling down on the insanity. The time has come to totally re-discuss old and outdated rules that have hurt Europe. Otherwise a vote like this cannot be explained, Matteo Salvini, Italian deputy prime minister, leader of the anti-immigration League, said after his surprise EU parliamentary win, Reuters noted. The fact that Britain, nearly three years after voting to leave the EU, is still in the EU, should tell you just how resistant the globalist European elite are to changing their mindset and allowing the people to decide their own fate. Thats not democracy, thats tyranny. And thats why the people are resisting. Read more about Western elitist tyranny and globalism at Tyranny.news and Globalism.news. Sources include: Reuters.com Axios.com TheNationalSentinel.com (Natural News) By now it should be very apparent to most Americans that sending our children to a college or university is a crap shoot in terms of how they will come out the other end four, five, or more years later when they graduate. Thats because even if you instill in your kids your conservative, pro-America, constitutional values, they are going be inundated with Left-wing pabulum, propaganda, and disinformation virtually every moment of their higher education experience. Case in point: One professor, Ian Bremmer, a geopolitical analyst, journalist, and cable news regular, actually attributed a quote about North Korea to POTUS Donald Trump that was 100 percent made up, but posted on Twitter as though it was real and then he actually defended his actions and his lie. As reported by The Washington Examiner, Bremmer did not fess up to fabricating the post until after it was jumped on by other Left-wing hacks like Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Calif.) and CNN analyst Ana Navarro-Cardenas, whose Trump Derangement Syndrome is well into the advanced stages, and then spread around the cybersphere as a real quote. The supposed quote: Kim Jong Un is smarter and would make a better President than Sleepy Joe Biden. The Washington Examiner: The quote was unverified by journalists in the traveling pool with Trump in Japan. Once confronted about it online by a Washington Examiner reporter, Bremmer admitted it was false, though he said it could be plausible. Where does Bremmer work? Why, TIME magazine, of course. Hes a foreign affairs columnist for the discredited publication and an editor-at-large. Bremmer went on to claim that his hoax statement is a comment on the state of media and the twitterverse today. UPDATE: @ianbremmer has now admitted that he fabricated this viral Trump quote. And yet it is being shared by journalists and congressmen as if it is real. pic.twitter.com/QgNd9DnN8g Jerry Dunleavy (@JerryDunleavy) May 26, 2019 Jerry Dunleavy, a reporter for the Washington Examiner, tried to get a response about the fake quote from Bremmer, but he said the TIME journalist tried to clap back at me but then deleted all his tweets because he is garbage. .@IanBremmer also tried to clap back at me but then deleted all his tweets because he is garbage. Jerry Dunleavy (@JerryDunleavy) May 26, 2019 Dunleavy continued, noting, Bremmer also responded to the reporters tweet by calling his own tweet an objectively ludicrous quote. And Bremmer tried to defend his spreading of false information by calling his fake quote kinda plausible especially on Twitter, where people automatically support whatever political position they have.' (Related: Leftist media now calling edited videos accurately depicting a mindless Pelosi doctored in an attempt to discredit them.) Thats the point, Bremmer noted before deleting all of his prior posts in the thread. The charade did catch the attention of POTUS Donald Trump, who is visiting a key Asian ally Japan. This is whats going on in the age of Fake News. People think they can say anything and get away with it, the president tweeted, adding: Really, the libel laws should be changed to hold Fake News Media accountable! .@ianbremmer now admits that he MADE UP a completely ludicrous quote, attributing it to me. This is whats going on in the age of Fake News. People think they can say anything and get away with it. Really, the libel laws should be changed to hold Fake News Media accountable! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 27, 2019 Thats really not a bad idea about the libel laws when you stop and think about it. Our Constitution guarantees a free press, of course, as well as free speech, but there are laws on the books that actually limit public speech to what is verifiable, safe, and accurate and federal courts, as well as the U.S. Supreme Court, have routinely upheld those laws. You cant yell fire! in a crowded theater, for instance. There are laws against hate speech (though many of them go too far). And you cannot publicly slander a person that is, say something patently false or unproven about them because you can be held legally liable for such statements. So why can news agencies publish patently false information (such as, President Trump colluded with Russia) and not be held liable? Or jerk columnists whose Trump Derangement Syndrome is acting up at the moment? Read more about the fake news media and its disinformation campaigns at NewsFakes.com and Disinfo.news. Sources include: TheNationalSentinel.com WashingtonExaminer.com (Natural News) Sharyl Attkisson is one of the top journalists operating in America today. She has fearlessly investigated the vaccine deep state and was fired from the corporate-run media for daring to report truths about vaccines. Her latest investigation takes an in-depth look at Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia that has been overtaken by bad actors and special interests (such as the GMO industry, vaccine industry, Big Pharma, etc.). Its become a vehicle for special interests to control information, Attkisson writes. Agenda editors are able to prevent or revert edits and sourcing on selected issues and people in order to control the narrative. So why does Google, DuckDuckGo and every other search engine (including Facebook) rely on Wikipedia to provide information on millions of topics? Because Google, in particular, knows that Wikipedia is controlled by bad actors who push official narratives on everything from vaccines to chemtrails. Attkisson recently published a must-read story that exposes how Wikipedia has collapsed into a disinformation / propaganda hub run by corporate interests. Her full story, reprinted below, is found at SharylAttkisson.com. Sharyl is also the host of a highly-recommended broadcast journalism show called Full Measure, carried by the Sinclair network. Wikipedia isbroken, controlled by special interests and bad actors, says co-founder by Sharyl Attkisson, via SharylAttkisson.com. Ive done quite a bit of reporting about how Wikipedia is definitely not the encyclopedia anyone can edit. Its become a vehicle for special interests to control information. Agenda editors are able to prevent or revert edits and sourcing on selected issues and people in order to control the narrative. My own battle with Wikipedia included being unable to correct provably false facts such as incorrect job history, incorrect birth place and incorrect birth date. Whats worse is that agenda editors related to pharmaceutical interests and the partisan blog Media Matters control my Wikipedia biographical page, making sure that slanted or false information stays on it. For example, they falsely refer to my reporting as anti-vaccine, and imply my reporting on the topic has been discredited. In fact, my vaccine and medical reporting has been recognized by top national journalism awards organizations, and has even been cited as a source in a peer reviewed scientific publication. However, anyone who tries to edit this factual context and footnotes onto my page finds it is quickly removed. What persists on my page, however, are sources that are supposedly disallowed by Wikipedias policies. They include citations by Media Matters, with no disclosure that its a partisan blog. Another entity quoted on my Wikipedia biographical page to disparage my work is the vaccine industrys Dr. Paul Offit. But theres no mention of the lawsuits filed against Offit for libel (one prompted him to apologize and correct his book), or the fact that he provided false information about his work and my reporting to the Orange County Register, which later corrected its article. Obviously, these facts would normally make Offit an unreliable source, but for Wikipedia, hes presented as if an unconflicted expert. In fact, Wikipedia doesnt even mention thats Offit is a vaccine industry insider whos made millions of dollars off of vaccines. Meantime, turn to Dr. Offits own Wikipedia biography and at last look it also omitted all mention of his countless controversies. Instead, its written like a promotional resume in violation of Wikipedias supposed politics on neutrality. These biographies are just two examples of ones that blatantly violate Wikipedias strict rules, yet they are set in stone. The powerful interests that watch and control the pages make sure Offits background is whitewashed and that mine is subtly tarnished. They will revert or change any edits that attempt to correct the record. This, in a nutshell, exemplifies Wikipedias problems across the platform as described by its cofounder Larry Sanger. Sanger recently spoke to 150Sec. The following is an excerpt: Reading a Wikipedia entry about Wikipedia itself seems strange. But where else on the web would an average internet user go for digestible, encyclopedia-style content? With its entries almost always topping Google search results, Wikipedia receives around 33 billion page views per month, according to studies carried out by thinktank Pew Research in 2016. In line with statistics from the website itself, it also changes at a rate of 1.8 edits per second and the number of new articles per day averages 578. Watch Wikipedia: The Dark Side, a Full Measure investigation The multilingual free online encyclopedia was established in 2001 by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger, originally under the name of Nupedia. It is now the fifth most popular website in the world. 150Sec spoke to one of Wikipedias original co-founders, Sanger who despite leaving the project in 2002 shared his thoughts on online knowledge platforms on todays internet, ahead of this months Pioneers conference in Austria. As an open source, Wikipedia can be added to or edited by anyone in the world through knowledge base websites called wikis, which allow users to collaboratively modify content. However, Sanger claims that this has become one of Wikipedias biggest downfalls. In its early days, Wikipedia itself had special challenges, he explained. One was simply to teach everyone who arrived at the wiki, which was basically a blank bulletin board that could have become whatever we wanted it to become, that we intended to build an encyclopedia. A lot of people didnt seem to know what that meant, or maybe they just didnt care, he said. Wikipedia itself had special challenges, Larry Sanger, Wikipedia co-founder. Another hurdle was to figure out how to rein in the bad actors so that they did not ruin the project for everyone else. Unfortunately, we never did come up with a good solution for that one, Sanger added. Wikipedia is a broken system as a result, he said. It is this flaw that has earned Wikipedia its reputation as an often untrustworthy source of information, particularly during times of discussion around misinformation and fake news, a term which Sanger finds problematic. See more coverage of similar topics by Sharyl Attkisson: Measles: Facts and Misconceptions in a Near-Hysterical Media Environment How Media Narratives Became More Important Than Facts Is Facebook instituting unfair bans? Watch more truth videos on all topics at Brighteon.com, the free speech alternative to YouTube. Bancroft Middle School in San Leandro was ordered to shelter in place Tuesday afternoon as police officers searched for a robbery suspect in the area, officials said. San Leandro police say they arrested the suspect and the shelter in place had been lifted as of 2:34 p.m. The San Leandro Unified School District in a tweet said police assisted California Highway Patrol in the area of MacArthur and Estudillo. An old building might be the key to solving a very modern-day problem for several South Bay college students. Housing is a huge issue in downtown San Jose. Both its availability and affordability hit students at San Jose State University hard. Students are excited about a city proposal to turn the Alfred E. Alquist building -- on San Antonio Street between Second and Third streets -- be taken over by the university. San Jose State University is now putting together a plan for the building, which is due on June 15. San Franciscos mayor on Monday addressed the controversial police raid on a local journalists home and office. Chief Bill Scott reversed course a bit on Friday, admitting his officers may have violated the states shield law that protects journalists and their sources. Since then, the police commission and officers' union have weighed in as well. Scott offered an apology, and now his job appears to be on the line. The head of the police union is already calling for Scotts resignation, saying hes abandoning his officers amid growing criticism. Scott said the citys Department of Police Accountability will investigate. "There were issues in this investigation, and those issues have to be addressed, and the independent investigation will bare that out," Scott said. The investigation will be into what led to the police search warrant raid on the home and office of freelance journalist Bryan Carmody. They were looking for evidence of who leaked the police report on the death of Public Defender Jeff Adachi. California law protects journalists from search warrants aimed at revealing their sources. And the outcry over the violation of that law has pushed Mayor London Breed to call for an investigation. Breed said the next step is "to look at an outside agency to do this investigation to restore the public trust because of the way this investigation has been handled thus far." Breed, however, is backing away from questions about whether she still trusts him to lead the department. The head of the police union has called for Scott to resign. "This investigation was initiated at the top, meaning the chiefs office," SFPOA President Tony Montoya said. "The chief was very well briefed extensively on every step of the investigation, including giving direction to the sergeants themselves." Initially, Scott said the raid on the journalist's home was legal, but on Friday, he apologized and said mistakes were made. On Monday, Breed was asked if she still had faith in him. "I think at this point my goal is to focus on restoring the public trust by providing an outside entity for dealing with this particular issue," she said. NBC Bay Area has a long-time relationship with Carmody. In this case, we bought video from him that included the police report on Adachi's death. Asked if he knew about the raid before it took place and if the two judges that signed the warrant were aware that Carmody was a journalist, Scott said, "That will all come out in an independent investigation." Police responded to reports of shots fired near Candlestick Point in San Francisco on Monday evening, according to the California Highway Patrol. The report came in about 5:10 p.m. on police activity that started on San Francisco city streets and continued onto southbound Highway 101 as far south as San Bruno, the CHP said. The CHP initially reported there were shots fired on the freeway. At about 5:55 p.m., San Francisco police officers met with CHP officers on southbond Highway 101, where they had a vehicle with a person who had been shot earlier on a street near the Candlestick area, police said. Details of the victim's injuries were not provided. The police activity brought southbound traffic to a standstill. No further details were immediately available. Bay Area comedian W. Kamau Bell and community members were able to successfully raise money to help a Berkeley veteran move back into his home. And it all started with a couple of tweets from Bell, that got hundreds of people to take up the cause of Leonard Powell. The senior citizen claims the City of Berkeley forced him out of his home over code violations. Strangers raised tens of thousands of dollars, enough to pay off the repair debt and get him back into the place he's called home for 45 years. On Monday, Bell tweeted out that enough money was raised for Powell to move back in. Powell said he was forced to move from his house in 2017 after he was unable to pay for repairs required by Berkeley city officials. He said that the scope of the work was never made clear to him, and he eventually ended up with a $700,000 bill. Powell worked to get loans to cover lots of it, but was still about $70,000 short. Bell tweeted about Powell's GoFundMe page, and he now has enough to cover the remaining costs. Perhaps the most significant item on Illinois lawmakers' agenda this session is a proposal to change the state's individual income tax system from the current flat rate to a progressive scale. There's been plenty of debate surrounding the idea, and lots of questions. Here are a few key things to know: What is a graduated income tax? A graduated income tax, also referred to as a progressive tax, is a tax structure that imposes increasingly higher tax rates on higher-earning individuals or businesses. Essentially, under this kind of system: the more you make, the more you pay. In contrast, a flat tax is one rate for all. What is Illinois' tax rate now? Illinois' current individual income tax rate is a flat 4.95% for everyone, regardless of how much money they make. It's a flat rate across the board because the current version of the state Constitution, which has been in effect since 1971, requires that any income tax imposed by the state be "at a non graduated rate." Any amendment to Illinois' Constitution requires ratification by three-fifths of voters in an upcoming general election. What has Illinois' individual income tax rate been in the past? Illinois' first income tax rate was 2.5%, implemented in 1969 and in place through 1982. From 1983 and 2010, the rate fluctuated between 2.5% and 3%, where it stayed from 1990 to 2010. Facing a multi billion-dollar budget deficit in early 2011, then-Gov. Pat Quinn signed a temporary tax increase into law that hiked the rate to 5% through the end of 2014, when it was scheduled to sunset. Quinn lost his bid for re-election to Gov. Bruce Rauner in November 2014, and on Jan. 1, 2015, before Rauner took office, the rate automatically dropped to 3.75%. Rauner campaigned on what he called a "Turnaround Agenda," which included proposals to weaken public employee unions, change the workers compensation system and more, as a way to improve Illinois' economy, rather than increase taxes. That put him at odds with the Democrat-controlled legislature, and thus ensued a more than two-year state budget impasse - the longest in U.S. history - that devastated schools and social service agencies statewide and ballooned Illinois bill backlog to more than $14 billion - in part worsening the state's already tenuous financial situation. In 2017, the legislature overrode Rauner's veto of a budget that included a tax increase, ending the impasse and bringing the rate back up to 4.95% where it remains today. Who wants to change the tax rate and why? Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who defeated Rauner in 2018, campaigned in part on a promise to implement a progressive income tax on the state's wealthiest individuals. Pritzker himself is the richest elected official in the country, with Forbes estimating the Hyatt Hotel heir's net worth at about $3.2 billion and his 2017 tax forms showing he made more than $54 million that year alone. As governor, he faces the aforementioned bill backlog and pension deficit, while also looking to fund a major capital plan to rebuild the state's infrastructure, among other initiatives. Democrats largely support the change to what hes dubbed a fair tax, while the generally tax-averse Republicans in Springfield have expressed their opposition all voting in lockstep against the measure in both chambers. [[503509331, C]] What needs to happen for the tax rates to change? In short, several things. In May, the final month of the legislative session, both chambers passed a Constitutional amendment to repeal the state's flat tax and allow for a graduated income tax. But per the state Constitution, voters will have to decide whether to ratify that amendment in the next general election, happening in November 2020. The change will take effect one of two ways: if three-fifths (or 60%) of people voting on the amendment approve it, or if a simple majority (50% plus one) of all voters, including those who skip the question on their ballots, approve it. But the Constitutional amendment alone wont change the rates it will only allow for them to be graduated. In the final days of the legislative session, lawmakers passed (and Pritzker vowed to sign) a separate bill to set new rates that would take effect beginning the year after the amendment is ratified so on Jan. 1, 2021, if voters approve it in the fall. What would Illinois' new tax rates be? According to Senate Bill 687, which passed both chambers, the proposed rates would be as follows: For single and joint filers earning less than $250,000 per year, the first $10,000 would be taxed at 4.75%, then income between that and $100,000 would be taxed at 4.9%. From there, up to $250,000, the rate would be 4.95%, where it stands today. Above $250,000, the rates begin to differ for single and joint filers. For single filers from $250,000 to $350,000, and for joint filers up to $500,000, the rate would be 7.75%. That increases to 7.85% for single filers reporting between $350,000 and $750,000 in income, and for joint filers from $500,000 to $1 million. Under the new structure, single filers earning more than $750,000 and joint filers earning more than $1 million would be taxed at the top rate of 7.99%. For only that highest bracket, the taxpayers net income would all be taxed at that top rate, unlike the rest of the brackets. It's important to note: For anyone paying below that top rate of 7.99%, the lower rates will not apply to all of your income. It works more like a ladder than a blanket rate, so the majority of residents first $10,000 would be taxed at the lowest rate. You would then pay the corresponding rates for each bracket, unless and until you reach the $750,000 mark - or $1 million for joint filers. While a deal negotiated in the legislature seems unlikely to be revisited, these rates arent set in stone. Though it probably won't happen, they theoretically could be changed in the next year, since the amendment itself isn't up for a vote until November 2020 - leaving another full legislative session between now and then. [[510401762, C]] When would the new rates take effect? Because the Constitutional amendment requires ratification in the next general election, the earliest the new structure could take effect if its approved would be on Jan. 1, 2021. Interest groups on both sides of the issue have already taken to television airwaves both in favor and against the progressive tax structure, meaning it will be a long year and a half of ads and spirited debate before voters even head to their polling places. Who would a graduated tax impact most? Pritzker says under this new structure, 97% of Illinois residents would pay the same or less in state income taxes. Under the Senate-approved proposal, anyone making less than $250,000 would pay the current rate of 4.95%, with a slight decrease in the rates on income up to $100,000. What other states have a graduated income tax? Thirty-three states in the U.S. and Washington, D.C., all have some form of a progressive income tax, ranging from 0% on the lowest earners in South Carolina to as high as 13.3% on incomes over $1,000,000 in California. Illinois and its Midwestern neighbors Indiana and Michigan are three of eight states that impose a flat tax. Seven people are dead and at least 33 others have been wounded in shootings across the city of Chicago over the Memorial Day weekend so far. The most recent fatality happened just after midnight Tuesday, when three people were shot along the popular 606 trail in the city's Logan Square neighborhood, one of them fatally. Police said the group was walking together when three other men walked up and asked them their gang affiliation before displaying weapons and opening fire. A 22-year-old man was shot in the chest and back and was pronounced dead at Norwegian American Hospital, authorities said. A 19-year-old woman was in critical condition at Mount Sinai Hospital with a wound to the stomach and a 20-year-old man was shot in the lower backside and was listed in stable condition at John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, police said. The gunmen fled eastbound from the scene and were not taken into custody as of Tuesday morning, according to authorities. Area North detectives were investigating, but said none of the victims appeared to be known to police. just after 11 p.m. Monday, a 36-year-old man was shot during a verbal altercation with two juveniles, police said. One of the teens displayed a weapon and shot the man in the chest, police said. He was taken to Christ Hospital and pronounced dead, authorities said. The teens fled on foot northbound on Cicero and were not in custody as of Tuesday morning. Area Central detectives were investigating. The weekend's deadliest shooting happened when at least four people were shot in the 1300 block of West Hastings just after 6 a.m. Sunday, according to police. When officers arrived at the scene, they found two men, a 27-year-old and a 26-year-old, who had suffered gunshot wounds. Both men were taken to Cook County Hospital, where they were pronounced dead. Police say that two women, who were seated in a black sedan at the scene, were also shot. A 31-year-old woman was shot in the hip, and a 25-year-old woman was shot in the left arm. Both women are in good condition at Mount Sinai Hospital. After the shooting, police recovered multiple weapons, and a possible suspect is in custody in connection with the incident. Police say that two other persons of interest are also being interviewed by detectives in connection with the shooting. Earlier in the weekend, just after 10 p.m. Saturday in the 400 block of North 77th Street, two men were standing on a sidewalk when a person in a passing vehicle fired shots, striking both victims. A 43-year-old man was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center in critical condition with multiple gunshot wounds, and he later died from his injuries, police said. Another victim, a 31-year-old man, was also taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, and he was listed in stable condition with a gunshot wound to his left leg. A few hours later, another man was shot and killed in the 1300 block of West Hastings, according to police. Authorities were responding to a large group disturbance near the scene when shots rang out, and when they reached the man, he was unresponsive on the sidewalk, police said. The man was taken to Stroger Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. A 25-year-old woman was also shot, and she's in stable condition at Stroger Hospital with a gunshot wound to her arm. A fatal shooting was also reported just after 6:30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, according to police. A 29-year-old man was standing on a porch in the 100 block of West 109th Place when a person walked out of a gangway and opened fire, striking him in the chest. The man was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead in the first fatal shooting of the weekend. No suspects are in custody in the shooting. City officials, including Mayor Lori Lightfoot, have announced how they plan to keep Chicagoans safe on Memorial Day, and throughout the summer. NBC 5s Regina Waldroup has the details. Here are the rest of the weekends shootings: Note: No suspects are in custody unless otherwise noted. Friday: On Friday afternoon, a 24-year-old man was walking northbound in the 6100 block of South Maplewood when he heard gunshots and felt pain, according to police. The man was shot in the upper back, and he was later taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he is listed in serious condition. In the 1500 block of South Sawyer at approximately 9:44 p.m., two people were walking on a sidewalk when they heard gunshots. A 15-year-old boy was taken to Stroger Hospital with a gunshot wound to his right leg, and a 27-year-old man was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital with a gunshot wound to his left leg. Both victims are in stable condition, according to police. Just before 11 p.m. in the 300 block of North Lake Shore Drive, a 20-year-old woman riding in the backseat of a Nissan sedan when a person in a white SUV pulled up alongside the vehicle and opened fire. The woman was shot in the right hand, and was driven to Northwestern Medical Center in stable condition, according to authorities. In another shooting late Friday night, a 25-year-old man was at a gas station in the 5400 block of West Diversey when a man walked up to him and opened fire, striking him in the face, according to Chicago police. The man was rushed to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, where he was listed in critical condition. No suspects are in custody in the case. Saturday: In the 300 block of North Cicero at approximately 12:01 a.m., a 31-year-old man was standing on a sidewalk when he heard gunshots. The man was taken to West Suburban, and was later transferred to Stroger Medical Center in stable condition with gunshot wounds to his right arm and right leg, police said. A 26-year-old man was walking down an alley in the 1400 block of East 70th Street at approximately 12:40 a.m. when a man walked up to him and opened fire, police said. The victim was struck in the left shoulder and left leg, and was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he is listed in stable condition. Just after 2 a.m. in the 7400 block of South Langley, a 45-year-old man was walking on a sidewalk when he heard shots and felt pain in his buttocks, police said. The man was taken to St. Bernards, where he is listed in stable condition. Three people were hurt in a shooting Saturday morning in the citys Brighton Park neighborhood. Just after 2 a.m., the victims were in a sedan traveling southbound when a person in a black SUV pulled up alongside their vehicle and opened fire. A 42-year-old man was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital with multiple gunshot wounds, and he was listed in critical condition. A 19-year-old woman, who was also shot multiple times, was listed in critical condition at Mount Sinai. A 17-year-old girl was also taken to Mount Sinai, where she was listed in stable condition. No suspect is in custody, and Area Central Detectives are investigating. In the 7600 block of South May at approximately 3:51 a.m., a 33-year-old man was standing on a sidewalk when a person in a black sedan opened fire, striking him in the abdomen and left arm. He was taken to an area hospital in stable condition, police said. Chicago police responded to a call of a person with a gun in the 800 block of North Leclaire Avenue at approximately 10:48 a.m., and when they arrived they found evidence of a shooting. A short time later, officers learned that a 29-year-old man had been shot in the left ankle, and had transported himself to West Suburban Hospital. The man is in good condition, and police are investigating the shooting. Sunday: A man was arrested after he allegedly shot a gun in a Schaumburg hotel room on Sunday and was found with a batch of cocaine. Zachary Woelfel, 29, of Glendale Heights, faces five felony counts of unlawful use of a weapon, reckless discharge of a firearm, possession of a defaced firearm, and delivery and possession of cocaine, Schaumburg police said. Officers answered a noise complaint about 5:30 p.m. at the Extended Stay Hotel at 1200 American Lane and learned a gun had been fired, police said. Officers evacuated the hotel and were told by a guest that Woelfel was still in a room with other people. Police suspected a possible barricade situation and called the Northern Illinois Police Alarm System Emergency Services Team for assistance, police said. They checked the room and found Woelfel alone with a handgun, spent shell casings and 91 grams of cocaine, police said. He was arrested and scheduled for a bail hearing in Cook County court. Woelfels criminal history includes two charges of violating an order or protection in 2018 and 2014, a 2014 count of domestic battery and a 2012 count of possession a firearm with a FOID card. The search for a 17-year-old boy who went missing while swimming at Candlewood Lake in New Milford on Memorial Day has now turned into a recovery mission, officials said Tuesday. Emergency crews were called out for the possible drowning Monday after the teen was reported missing. Police said he was swimming with at least two friends when he became distressed, disappeared and went under the water as they were swimming from one island to another. Boaters and good Samaritans immediately began searching the water in the area between Dike Point Park and Rock Island. Then police, rescue crews and divers took over until Monday night. "The area where they were is an unattended swimming area. It's not exactly an area where it's monitored by the property owners so you know, it is kind of a swim at your own risk situation and we always encourage people to swim in locations where there are lifeguards available and other resources. And if they do get in trouble, you know, they have that immediately available to them," said New Milford Police Lt. Lawrence Ash. Crews from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Newtown Underwater Search and Rescue and New Milford Rescue are all on the scene and will continue to search for him on Tuesday. The divers are currently searching in what police said was murky water with depths of nine to 30 feet. The Connecticut State Police Dive Team has also been contacted to respond as an extra resource because they have more advanced technology. "It's always difficult in conditions like this. Visibility is limited as far as the lake. Visibility is reduced to feet so those are some of the challenges and other things in the lake that could present as a person. For instance, stumps, rocks, that kind of stuff also have to be checked out. So every angle of this search is being checked and that's kind of some of the challenges we face now," Lt. Ash added. According to authorities, there is no foul play suspected and nothing appears suspicious. The water is chilly, with temperatures around 60 degrees. Police have not released the missing teen's name, however, his family has been notified. A 38-year-old Norwich man suffered serious injuries in a motorcycle crash in Griswold on Monday night. State police said Javier Dario Santiago was driving a Yamaha motorcycle on Route 201, near the entrance of Hopeville State Park, around 7:45 p.m. Monday when he crossed the median from the westbound side of the road to the eastbound side and struck a Kia Sedona. Santiago was thrown from the motorcycle and suffered serious injuries, according to state police. LifeStar medical transport helicopter transported Santiago to Rhode Island Hospital. The driver and passenger in the Kia were transported to Backus Hospital to be treated for minor injuries. As the mortality of thoroughbreds at Santa Anita attracts national attention, some animal rights activists -- though not all -- are pushing for the abolition of horse racing in California. Several dozen demonstators gathered outside a track entrance Monday, following the weekend death of Kochees, a nine year old gelding that became the 26th thoroughbred to die this season after being injured in training or racing. Some protesters assert that even if injuries were eliminated, compelling horses to race is "speciesism" and "inhumane," and expressed hope a measure could be qualified to be placed on a California ballot next year. "We should not be using animals for entertainment," said Heather Wilson, one of the protest organizers, who sees a model in Florida's action last year to outlaw greyhound racing. Others see need for staying focused on reducing the leg fractures that in many cases become death sentences for thoroughbreds. The Stronach Group, which owns Santa Anita and other prominent racing venues, has become a powerful voice pushing for reform, including greater veterinary oversight, tighter limits on equine medications such as Lasix, and banning the use of the whip in most cases. "We think horse racing is at a precipice," said a spokesman, Stefan Friedman. "We need to make some wholesale changes in this industry." Stronach has had a perhaps unexpected partner and ally in PETA--People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. PETA does anticipate a future when horse racing will no long occur, but in the meantime is focused on actions that will make it safer for thoroughbreds. But after the death of Kochees, PETA issued a statement calling for an immediate suspension of racing throughout California until rules are "strengthened," and the investigation launched by the Los Angeles District Attorney's office is completed. "Nothing short of a zero-fatality rate is acceptable," said Kathy Guillermo, PETA Senior Vice President. Friedman spoke appreciatively of Stronach's "cooperative relationship" with Peta, but rejected the call for a suspension. "We believe reforms are working," Friedman said. He noted that after an initial round of changes was made, when the track reopened at the end of March, Santa Anita went seven weeks without a catastrophic injury. But then there were three over a nine day period. "Obviously, we had a setback," Friedman said. He emphasized Santa Anita's committment to insuring adherence to tightened rules, including those requiring horses to be cleared to run by both the attending veterinarian and the track veterinarian, and he warned there would be consequences for violations. Catatrophic leg injuries are not a new problem in thoroughbred racing, and in fact had long seemed intractable. Earlier this decade, thoroughred deaths following injuries came under examination at tracks in the state of New York. Scrutiny focused on Santa Anita in February when one of the sport's equine stars, Breeders' Cup winner Battle of Midway, was one of two horses that broke down within minutues during morning workouts, and both were euthanized. The crisis adds to the burdens on a sport long grappling with other challenges. Attendance has been on a decades-long downward trend since horse racing lost its position in California and other states as the only legal option for gambling. Thoroughbred breeding has also declined, and once iconic venues such as Inglewood's Hollywood Park have given way to more lucrative visions for the expansive property that racing requires. It's been nearly a century since thoroughbred racing became a major sport in California almost overnight. In the depths of the Great Drepression, in 1933, voters approved a ballot measure, Proposition 5, that legalized parimutual wagering on horse racing. Santa Anita opened Christmas Day, 1934, soon to be followed by Del Mar and Hollywood Park. Those who now seek to abolish the sport envision another ballot measure, either qualified by initiative, or placed on the ballot by the legislature. Wilson said four lawmakers have shown interest in introducing such a measure, but declined to identify them. PETA's Guillermo is among those who believe that even without a change in the law, horse racing's days in California are numbered. "If the current trend continues, horse racing will go away by itself," Guillermo said. "It's incumbent on the industry right now to do what they can to spare these horses in the time that the industry has left." Friedman expressed optimism that with the right reforms, horse racing can remain viable. "We at The Stronach Group are committed to get this right." Dallas police say a 4-year-old boy reported missing Sunday evening was "never in any danger" -- and was never actually in his father's car when it was reported stolen. Investigators learned Fermin Fuentes was safe with his mother the entire time, as the couple is estranged. A police spokesperson said they're now working with the Dallas County District Attorney's office exploring possible charges for the father related to making a false kidnapping claim. Fermin's father initially told police that his son was in the backseat of his car when it was taken from the parking lot of a McDonald's near S. Buckner Boulevard and Bruton Road shortly before 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Officers found the vehicle about three hours later in the 1800 block of Rylie Road, but the boy was not inside, police said. Two men and a woman were taken into custody at the scene and an Amber Alert was issued for Fuentes at 10:41 p.m. Through the course of their investigation, police said Fuentes' father "had inconsistencies in his report of the incident" -- and falsely claimed the boy's mother was in Mexico with no way to be contacted. Investigators later learned Fermin was safe and was with his mother the entire time. Police said Fuentes' father had not been taken into custody as of Monday evening. Another question raised in this case is why the late night emergency phone alert was so vague. It gave no details, instead it said, "Any information regarding this abduction, call Dallas Police Department." A DPD spokesperson said the department gave the Texas Department of Public Safety all the information and followed up with them to correct it. "At about 10:42 p.m., DPS sent out the alert without information on the believed missing child, a description of suspects or a vehicle. We contacted DPS and they quickly added the information on their Facebook page as well as other social media sites," Dallas police wrote Monday on its blog. Texas DPS normally sends information to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, who then sends the phone alert. Many people got the alert at 11:03 p.m., past the typical 11 p.m. cutoff. NBC 5 reached out to both agencies asking for clarification on what happened, but have not yet received a reply. Dallas police have arrested three men after a deadly shooting that happened in the Oak Lawn neighborhood early Monday morning. Officers responded to the 3100 block of Mahanna Street at 12:45 a.m. That's where investigators say 29-year-old Nicholas Edwards was involved in an argument with two other people. Police say one person involved pulled out a gun and shot Edwards multiple times. Edwards was taken to Parkland Hospital, where he later died. Nearly two weeks later, Dallas police arrested Jamie Israel Saenz, 17, and Lupe Anthony Zavala (pictured below), 18. Both were interviewed and charged with capital murder. Dallas Police Department A third suspect, Carlos Rodriguez-Quinones, 19, was arrested on an unrelated charge and is being held in the Dallas County Jail. He is also charged with capital murder. The only bells ringing at the Flower Mound Fire Department's Station No. 1 on May 22 were wedding bells. Jennie Royer shared a video of her now-fiance Jordan Sewell getting down on one knee on top of the ladder truck. What he said couldn't be heard over the motor of the fire truck, but after a kiss and hug, he said over her shoulder, "she said yes!" as family and friends cheered on. She's a nurse, he's a firefighter/paramedic. So you could say it's a match made in first responder heaven. Flower Mound firefighter/paramedic Jordan Sewell proposed to Jennie Royer on the top of a Flower Mound fire truck. She said yes. The Fort Worth Fire Department is saying goodbye to one of its own. Captain Keven Teague died on Friday from pancreatic cancer and already his fellow firefighters are working to prove his disease was caused by his job. It's a fight they're hoping will become easier thanks to a new bill passed through the Texas Legislature. Teague served with the department for more than 23 years and passed away at age 46 after he battled advanced stages of pancreatic cancer that had spread to his liver. "He was the stereotypical big firefighter that you wanted coming to rescue you," said Michael Glynn, President of the Fort Worth Professional Firefighters Association. "He was a great guy. He was a good family man, he was a good father. He was a heck of a good firefighter." According to the Fort Worth Professional Fire Fighters Association, Teague's cancer was a result of fighting fires and being exposed to heat, smoke, radiation and other suspected carcinogens. Under Texas law, that should mean his cancer will be deemed a line of duty injury. But in case after case, Texas firefighters' workers comp claims for cancer have been denied, forcing them into lengthy appeals. "We just want the cities to live up to what they've promised us," Glynn said. Now, a new bill passed through the Texas Legislature could make that fight easier. It establishes 11 cancers that cities will accept as a line of duty injury. "Then it creates penalties for the cities if they don't follow the law," Glynn said. Teague's pancreatic cancer is not on that list. But firefighters can still work to prove that any cancer they develop was caused by their job. "The cities are already denying us and they're making us have to go back and prove what we shouldn't have to prove in the first place," Glynn said. "So it's going to take us right back to what we're doing right now. It's going to help us with those 11 so that we don't have to go through this proving period, this proving phase that we contracted the cancer while on the job." It's a growing mission to protect the next firefighter in line while leaving no man behind. "I'm very confident that Captain Keven Teague's death will be considered in the line of duty," Glynn said. The workers' comp bill still needs the governor's approval to take effect. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is expected to sign it. Jim Davis, Chief of the Fort Worth Fire Department released the following statement on Friday: "Today the impact of cancer hit the Fort Worth Fire Department. Captain Keven Teague, a 24 year veteran, with a wife and two children ages 6 and 9 was diagnosed 14 days ago with cancer and this afternoon passed away. The FWFD will honor Keven in the future by becoming a leader in firefighter cancer reduction, research and strategy. Although the FWFD family grieves the loss of such a respected fire officer and friend, our focus will be to move heaven and earth to support his family moving forward. We ask that you keep the Teague family in your thoughts and prayers." Funeral arrangements are being made for Teague and the department is asking the public to keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. It was late at night and a group of Jewish teenagers were on a walk around the Chestnut Hill Reservoir in Massachusetts. Boston College Police Officer Carl Mascioli was on patrol on May 17, the night that the four teens saved a man with an anti-Semitic tattoo in Chestnut Hill. "As I approached them, two of them ran up to my car," said the patrolman. "There was a body in the water." Mascioli ran down the embankment and found a man partially submerged and not moving. "While I was pulling him out of the water, I also observed that he had a swastika on his hand," Mascioli said. It turned out the man the Jewish boys helped save had a tattoo of the Nazi symbol, and Mascioli told them about it. "I kind of let the gentlemen know sometimes some deeds have a funny way of turning around," said the officer. "Their good deed had a little bit of a twist to it." The students, who study at a nearby Yeshiva high school in Brighton, were not permitted to speak with NBC10 Boston about the incident, but they had a message for the officer to share with the man they helped rescue. "They wanted just to let him know that it was four young Jewish boys that helped save his life," recalled Mascioli, who said the students had no regrets about helping a man with an anti-Semitic tattoo. "A good deed is a good deed and that's part of life. We should be helping everybody out." It's unknown how the man ended up in the water. But police say he didn't have much time left, and if it hadn't been for the teenagers, the patrolman likely wouldn't have seen him. The man is expected to recover. Boastful on the occasion of Memorial Day, President Donald Trump and his Veterans Affairs secretary are claiming full credit for health care improvements that were underway before they took office. Trump said he passed a private-sector health care program, Veterans Choice, after failed attempts by past presidents for the last "45 years." That's not true. The Choice program, which allows veterans to see doctors outside the government-run VA system at taxpayer expense, was first passed in 2014 under President Barack Obama. Trump's VA secretary, Robert Wilkie, also is distorting the facts. Faulting previous "bad leadership" at VA, Wilkie suggested it was his own efforts that improved waiting times at VA medical centers and brought new offerings of same-day mental health service. The problem: The study cited by Wilkie on wait times covers the period from 2014 to 2017, before Wilkie took the helm as VA secretary. Same-day mental health services at VA were started during the Obama administration under Wilkie's predecessor, David Shulkin. TRUMP: "We passed VA Choice and VA Accountability to give our veterans the care that they deserve and they have been trying to pass these things for 45 years." Montoursville, Pennsylvania, rally on May 20. THE FACTS: Wrong. Trump is not the first president in 45 years to get Congress to pass Veterans Choice; Obama did it in the wake of a scandal at VA's medical center in Phoenix, where some veterans died while waiting months for appointments. The program currently allows veterans to see doctors outside the VA system if they must wait more than 30 days for an appointment or drive more than 40 miles (65 kilometers) to a VA facility. Trump did expand eligibility for the program. Now, starting June 6, veterans are to have that option for a private doctor if their VA wait is only 20 days (28 for specialty care) or their drive is only 30 minutes. Still, VA's top health official, Dr. Richard Stone, described the new program's start to "almost be a non-event" in testimony to Congress. That's in part because wait times in the private sector are typically longer than at VA. In 2018, 34 percent of all VA appointments were with outside physicians, down from 36 percent in 2017. Also key to the Choice program's success is an overhaul of VA's electronic medical records to allow seamless sharing of them with private physicians, a process expected to take up to 10 years. Wilkie has said full implementation of the expanded Choice program is "years" away. ___ WILKIE: "The first thing I did was change out the leadership at VA. ... (The president) also allowed me to change out leadership in the VA centers. If someone wasn't walking the post, getting to know the people who work for her or him, or getting to know those veterans, they had to leave. And, as a result, the Journal of the American Medical Association this year said that our waiting times are now as good or better than any in the private sector." interview Thursday with Fox News. THE FACTS: It's true that a study by the medical association came out in January that found wait times at VA medical centers on average were better than the private sector. But the improvement wasn't a "result" of anything that Wilkie did: The study involved a period largely covering the Obama administration and before Wilkie became acting VA secretary in late March 2018. In fact, in a VA press release in January announcing the study's results, Wilkie credits the department's "concerted" effort to improve access to care "since 2014." The study covered four specialties, primary care, dermatology, cardiology and orthopedics. It found that in 2014, the average wait time at VA medical centers was 22.5 days, compared with 18.7 days in the private sector, which was not statistically different. By 2017, the wait time at VA improved to 17.7 days, while increasing to 29.8 days for private doctors. Wait times at VA medical centers were shorter in all specialties except orthopedics. According to the study, the number of patients seen yearly in VA increased slightly between 2014 and 2017, to about 5.1 million. VA patient satisfaction also rose, according to patient surveys cited in the study. ___ WILKIE: The VA "had suffered from bad leadership. And that's a bipartisan comment. And the second thing I had to do was make sure that as we approach our veteran population that we make sure that they are at the center, their needs are at the center of what we do ... I think we've had it backwards at VA for many years. ... One of the things that we're doing at VA is that we have same-day mental health service. ... It is huge." interview with Fox News. THE FACTS: Same-day mental health service started at VA before Trump took office in January 2017, let alone Wilkie. VA's effort to provide same-day primary and mental-health care when medically necessary at every VA medical center was publicized in April 2016 under the Obama administration. At the time, Shulkin was helping lead the effort as VA's top health official. By late 2016, the department's blog announced that the goal of same-day mental health services would be achieved by year's end. A Dec. 23, 2016, article in the Harvard Business Review cites new same-day services at all VA hospitals as evidence of notable progress at the department. Shulkin, who was then named by Trump to be his VA secretary, told Congress in late January 2017 the services already were fully in place. Trump selected Wilkie to be his VA secretary after firing Shulkin in March 2018 because of ethics charges and internal rebellion at the department over the role of private care for veterans. Trump's initial replacement choice, White House doctor Ronny Jackson, withdrew after allegations of workplace misconduct surfaced. While Wilkie has been credited by both parties in Congress for bringing stability to the department, the VA improvements he attributes to himself this past week are misplaced. A new study showed a specific kind of seaweed could help significantly reduce methane gas emissions in California. The majority of those emissions come from the states 1.8 million dairy cows every time they burp, exhale or otherwise pass gas. Scientists at the University of California, Davis found a type of algae called Asparagopsis taxiformis that could be a solution. Jennifer Smith This particular species produces a whole unique suite of chemicals that when fed to cows in very small quantities prevents the production of methane in the digestive process of cows, said Jennifer Smith, a marine ecologist at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Smith joined the project several months ago and has since worked with the UC Davis team to find the most efficient way to cultivate the seaweed. Asparagopsis taxiformis is native to Australia and Hawaii and can also be found growing off the coasts of Baja, Catalina Island and San Diego. Were trying to understand how to grow it the best and the fastest with the least amount of energy input while also maximizing the production of the chemicals that were after, Smith said. California recently passed legislation requiring farmers and other producers to reduce their methane gas emissions 40 percent by the year 2030. Although more research is needed to determine the long-term effects of feeding seaweed to cows, Smith said this project has great potential. If this seaweed thing works out this is going to provide a wonderful opportunity for the farmers in California and beyond a way to reduce their methane emissions, Smith said. An eighth-grader from Corona began competing in the Scripps National Spelling Bee Monday for the fourth and final time after tying for seventh place last year. Aisha Randhawa was part of the record field of 562 taking a multiple-choice test with 12 spelling words and 14 vocabulary questions Monday, part of the qualifying process to advance to Thursday's finals. The test is considered the bee's first round. The spellers will spell words aloud for the first time Tuesday at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland near Washington D.C. Spellers correctly spelling their second-round word advance to the third round, which will begin Tuesday and conclude Wednesday. Spellers spelling their third-round words correctly can advance to the finals, which are limited to a maximum of 50 spellers. Spellers' scores are plotted on a chart beginning at 36. Spellers at each consecutive scoring level are added until no more than 50 spellers have been attained. Spellers receive one point for each of the 12 items correctly identified in the spelling portion of the test, one point for each of the 12 items correctly identified in the initial vocabulary section, three points for a correct answer to the lone item in the second vocabulary section and three points for a correct answer to the lone item in the third vocabulary section. Aisha is among seven spellers in the national bee making their fourth or fifth appearances. She has the fourth-highest past finish in the field. Aisha was eliminated in the 11th round of last year's bee when she misspelled perduellion, a noun meaning treason, omitting the second L. She tied for 22nd place in the 2016 bee and tied for 35th in the 2017 bee. Aisha has qualified for the national bee by winning the Riverside County Spelling Bee a record four consecutive times. Aisha said she thoroughly enjoys "learning of all kinds," loves performing in the Auburndale Intermediate School jazz band, for which she plays the piano and alto saxophone. She said she has fun with her siblings and friends playing board games and exploring the outdoors. The bee is limited to students in eighth grade or below. Contestants for the 92nd edition of the national bee range in age from 7 to 15 years old. The field consists of spellers from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, along with American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Department of Defense schools in Europe. Seven foreign nations are also represented -- the Bahamas, Canada, Germany, Ghana, Jamaica, Japan and South Korea. The field grew from 291 spellers in 2017 to a then-record 515 last year because of the creation of the RSVBee program, an invitational program designed "to level the playing field for national finals qualification," Valerie Miller, the bee's communications manager, told City News Service. The program gives students who live in areas without sponsored regional competitions the opportunity to advance to the national bee along with "spellers in competitive regions, where one speller is declared the winner from thousands of schools," Miller said. To qualify for the RSVBee program, students had to win their school spelling bee or be a former national finalist and attend a school enrolled in the Bee program. Parents applied on behalf of their child and paid a $1,500 participation fee to accept an invitation. The 2018 champion, Karthik Nemmani, from McKinney, Texas, was an RSVBee participant. The winner will receive a record $50,000 cash prize, $10,000 more than last year, from Scripps, which owns television stations and newspapers. The winner also receives $2,500 and a complete reference library from the dictionary publisher Merriam-Webster; reference works and a three-year online membership from Encyclopedia Britannica, plus trips to Hollywood to appear on the ABC late-night program "Jimmy Kimmel Live" and New York City to appear on the syndicated morning talk show "Live with Kelly and Ryan." Television coverage begins Tuesday at 5 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time on the ESPN App and the broadband network ESPN3. Wednesday's third round will be shown on the ESPN App and ESPN3 from 5 a.m. to about 1:30 p.m. The announcement of the finalists will be made at about 1:45 p.m. and be televised on the ESPN App and ESPN3. Finals coverage will begin at 7 a.m. Thursday on ESPN2 and the ESPN App. The prime-time portion will air from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on ESPN and the ESPN App. The multiple choice Play Along version of both portions of Thursday's coverage will be shown on ESPN U and the ESPN App. Viewers get a one-in-four chance to pick the correct spelling of the given word and informational boxes highlighting the word's etymology, definition, clear pronunciation and part of speech, as well as live tweets, the speller's biography and more. A speller from Riverside County has never won the bee. A man was arrested early Monday morning after deputies spotted him wearing a President Donald Trump mask while allegedly vandalizing a parked vehicle in Orange County. Deputies were conducting a patrol check of businesses near Cabot Road and Vista Viejo Road around 4 a.m. They had to do a "double take" when they spotted "a person resembling President Trump slashing tires and breaking the windshield of a parked vehicle." https://www.instagram.com/p/Bx9 The Orange County Sheriff's Department's Mission Viejo station posted photos of the Trump mask, along with other findings including a loaded handgun, body armor, an airsoft gun and a helmet. Authorities identified the alleged vandal as 56-year-old Rory Zimmerman. Photos from the scene also show Zimmerman's vehicle outfitted with "takedown lights" mounted to the front windshield and a fake California license plate. Orange County Sheriff's Department Court records show he got into trouble with the law in March and late last year for not having proper license plates. Zimmerman was arrested and booked for felony vandalism, authorities said. His bail was originally set at $20,000 and later upped to $100,000. What to Know Three members of a New Jersey family, including a 4-year-old, were killed in a Sunday crash in upstate New York The family was on a road trip to Niagara Falls when an alleged drunken driver blew a stop sign and hit their SUV, police say The pickup driver, Richard Sawicki, 20, was arrested on aggravated vehicular homicide, DWI and reckless driving charges Three family members -- including a 4-year-old girl -- were all killed when their vehicle was T-boned by a drunk driver while on a Memorial Day weekend trip to Niagara Falls, authorities say. Four-year-old Kiara Hernandez, of Perth Amboy, New Jersey, was killed in the crash in upstate New York on Sunday morning, according to her father. Her mother, identified by police as 32-year-old Mayelin Brito-Castro; and grandmother, 47-year-old Ondina Castro De La Cruz, were also killed. Six other people, ranging in age from 4 years old to 55, were also hurt in the crash at Route 20A and Maxon Road in Sheldon, a small town about 30 miles southeast of Buffalo. Investigators say the family of nine was heading west on Route 20A when their Kia Sedona minivan was T-boned by a Dodge Ram driven by 20-year-old Richard Sawicki of Lackawanna, New York. Authorities say that Sawicki's truck had blown through a stop sign just before the wreck. Authorities say that not everyone in the Sedona -- which was only intended to seat seven people -- was wearing a seatbelt and none of the three 4-year olds onboard had car seats. De La Cruz and Brito-Castro were ejected and pronounced dead at the scene; Hernandez had head injuries and died at a hospital. The two surviving 4-year-olds, two other children, ages 10 and 14; a 26-year-old woman; and a 55-year-old man were all taken to the hospital with varying injuries. The 55-year-old was later released, but everyone else in the Sedona is still at the hospital. Robinson Hernandez "Anytime a child is involved - and in this case, we had five - it pulls at you," Wyoming County Sheriff Gregory Rudolph told The Daily News of Batavia. "It's a tragedy." Sawicki, meanwhile, was taken to the hospital and was later released. He's now facing vehicular homicide, DWI and reckless driving charges. Photos: 3 Members of Same New Jersey Family Killed by Drunken Driver, Cops Say "That guy should pay for what he did," said Nelson Nunez, the family's upstairs neighbor. "If you drink, don't drive." Audio from the emergency dispatcher paints a harrowing picture of the scene police came across. "I have an MVA at 20A and Maxon Roadthere are people laying in the roadway," the dispatcher says. An officer replies: "Gonna have to get Mercy Flight on standby I got a least 5 to 6 people .. infants down." Wyoming County Sheriff's Office Sawicki is being held in lieu of $200,000 bond. Messages were left at his lawyer's office and possible phone numbers for his Lackawanna home. Sawicki is due back in court June 10. What to Know Its Tuesday, May 28th and NBC 6 has the top stories you need to know for the day. Its Tuesday, May 28th and NBC 6 has the top stories you need to know for the day. Weather wise, breezy conditions and warm temperatures greet South Florida following the holiday weekend with highs in the upper 80s for the rest of the work week. No. 1 - A man died after he was shot by a robber, who also stole his iPhone and gold chain Monday in Opa-locka. The robbery happened at 90 Bahman Avenue, as Manny Lira told NBC 6 he was talking on the phone with his friend Omar Alvarez when he heard a scuffle and then the call cutting off. Police said someone in a white vehicle drove up to Alvarez outside of his home and shot him. No. 2 - Jury selection begins today in the trial of a South Florida man accused of beating his roommate into a coma. Police say Byron Mitchell and Danielle Jones found each other on Craigslist back in 2016. Mitchell rejected a plea offer of 20 years in prison, sending the case to a trial. No. 3 - After several weeks of controversy that landed one person behind bars, voters in the city of Sweetwater will head back to their voting booths to decide who will be the next mayor of the Miami-Dade city. Residents who are eligible will cast their ballots Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. for one of the two people on the ballot incumbent Orlando Lopez or the man he beat four years ago, former Mayor Jose Diaz. No. 4 - A rapid-fire line of apparent tornadoes tore across Indiana and Ohio overnight, packed so closely together that one crossed the path carved by another. The storms strew debris so thick that at one point, highway crews had to use snowplows to clear an interstate. At least half a dozen communities from eastern Indiana through central Ohio suffered damage, according to the National Weather Service, though authorities working through the night had reported no fatalities as of early Tuesday. No. 5 - Student journalists from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School will receive recognition for an assignment they'll likely never forget filling the school newspaper with obituaries. The Pulitzer Prize board will honor the group for their work after the shooting during a luncheon in New York City. No. 6 - When a South Florida mother lost her Marine son to suicide, she made it her life's mission to help veterans cope. Janine Lutz's son, Janos "John" V. Lutz, was 24 when he died six years ago. He served two tours in Iraq and Afghanistan in five years but Janine said her son was once given up to 24 prescriptions at one time. To find out how Lutz is helping others avoid the same tragedy and what agencies across South Florida are taking part, click on this link. What to Know Boynton Beach Police were looking for 37-year-old Bethany Keen and her children 9-year-old Adanoi Zajac and 6-year-old Ostara Zajac. Police in a South Florida city say they have found a missing woman and her two children who they say could have been endangered. Officials with the Boynton Beach Police Department said they were looking for 37-year-old Bethany Keen and her children 9-year-old Adanoi Zajac and his 6-year-old sister Ostara Zajac after they were last seen getting into a car and leaving a hotel off Congress Avenue around 3 a.m. Tuesday. Police say the trio was believed to be in a white Honda CRV with Florida license plate DVR-M05, tweeting that all three had been found safe shortly after 11 a.m. Officers added that Keen has a history of neurological disorders, but not say if that had anything to do with this case. When a South Florida mother lost her Marine son to suicide six years ago, she made it her life's mission to help other veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and in the process, has taken on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Janine Lutz's son, Janos "John" V. Lutz, died by what she calls a "pharmaceutically-induced suicide" after ingesting a handful of Morphine and Klonopin pills given to him by VA doctors. He was 24 years old. Lutz blames John's death on the cocktail of powerful medications he was prescribed to treat his PTSD, specifically Klonopin, the brand name of clonazepam. The medication is a type of benzodiazepine, a class of drugs used to treat anxiety. The drug can trigger suicidal thoughts and tendencies in some patients. "I know my son died of pharmaceutically-induced suicide, it was the drugs that made him suicidal," said Lutz. "It wasn't his will [to die], it was the medication that f----- with his mind." The VA's National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder recommends against the use of benzodiazepines to treat PTSD. However, the VA does not outright ban doctors from prescribing it. The agency told NBC that it did not believe an outright ban would be in the best interest of patients because it could be complicated to discontinue usage in veterans who have developed a physical dependency to the drug. VA spokeswoman Susan Carter said 10.8% of veterans with PTSD had a "benzo" prescription in 2018, the latest year for which data was available. John had served back-to-back tours in Iraq and Afghanistan between 2007 and 2009. In Afghanistan, he fought in Operation Strike of the Sword, a massive U.S.-led offensive in the summer of 2009 to take control of a Taliban stronghold in the country. The operation left more than a dozen U.S. Marines dead and many more injured physically and mentally. "When he came home, he was visibly different, severe PTSD," said Lutz. "As a new mom, receiving a new war fighter, I didn't have any tools. I didn't know the things that I know now." What Lutz didn't know was just how bad John was struggling. After being diagnosed with PTSD by the VA stateside, John was given between 17 to 24 prescriptions at any given time. When some of them were taken together, the side effects included hallucinations, paranoia and suicide. One week after being prescribed Klonopin, John attempted suicide for the first time in 2010. Despite a medical history of mental health problems related to the drug, he would be prescribed Klonopin two more times. John was also taking morphine for combat-related injuries. Lutz said she kept his medications "under lock and key," at his request, and that she doled them out only as needed." "He says, 'I need you to take my pain meds, and when I need them, just give me one,' and I said, 'Ok honey,' and he said, 'Yeah mom, I'm just scared,'" she said. But after a 2013 visit to a VA psychiatrist, who Lutz said John was open with about the fact that his mom locked up his medications and his history with suicidal thoughts, the doctor prescribed him a stronger dosage of Klonopin. That visit was followed by one to an orthopedic doctor who Lutz said gave her son additional morphine pills. Eight days later, John was dead. "I was mad," Lutz said. She believes her son's death was preventable and filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the VA and won in November 2017. While the agency never acknowledged wrongdoing, Lutz received a settlement from the VA. She told the Military Times in 2015 that she doesn't dispute the VA's argument that her son had ample access to medical treatment. But, "she believes his physicians did not thoroughly read his lengthy medical records, did not understand the extent of his injuries and didn't read closely enough to know that some of his medications caused him to contemplate suicide." Lutz turned her grief into action and started the LCpl Janos V. Lutz Live to Tell Foundation, a non-profit that works to reduce veteran suicide by pairing veterans with other veterans and providing them with services and access to local resources, according to its website. Through Live to Tell, Lutz has also launched Lutz Buddy Up, which helps connect veterans through its social clubs for peer support. Her latest venture is Vet-Connect, an app that helps law enforcement and first responders connect veterans to resources in their community. Several South Florida police departments have already adopted the system. Lutz said the Sunrise Police Department and the Broward County Sheriff's Office have also expressed interest in the app. Her goal is to grow the app nationally as a resource for veterans everywhere. "The culture the military creates, especially among combat veterans, where service members take care of each other is re-established locally reducing the barriers of trust, shame, and accountability that organizations typically face when attempting to connect with a veteran in order to provide services to improve their quality of life and mental health," said a description of the program on the foundation's website. According to the VA, veterans are 1.5 times more likely than civilians to die by suicide, with men ages 18 to 34 at higher risks. Lutz said she wants the VA to change its protocols and the overall way it treats veterans with PTSD. "Medication should not be an answer to every single problem, that should be the last resort," Lutz said. "[The] first resort is to build local communities. Lets connect them with other war fighters -- thats who can understand a war fighter, another war fighter." Lutz said, for her, every day is Memorial Day. But, she will continue her fight to save others. "My son is gone, but his death will not be in vain," she said. "Because of his death, others will be saved." Carter said in an emailed statement to NBC that as part of the VA's Psychotropic Drug Safety Initiative program, they will be starting in July "to reduce benzodiazepine prescribing among high risk populations." The target groups include veterans with PTSD, older Veterans, veterans with substance use disorders and veterans who are prescribed both benzodiazepines and opioids. Asked if the agency kept track of the number of veterans who died by suicide who also had a benzodiazepine prescription, Carter said "yes," but did not provide any further details. You can download Vet-Connect on the App Store or Google Play. Veterans experiencing a mental health emergency can contact the Veteran Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and select option 1 for a VA staffer. Veterans, troops or their families members can also text 838255 or visit VeteransCrisisLine.net for assistance. Canadian lawmakers voted Tuesday to serve a summons on Facebook executives Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg that would compel them to appear before them the next time either visits Canada. The decision comes after Zuckerberg and Sandberg failed to appear before the international grand committee on big data, privacy and democracy, which is being hosted by Canadas parliament this week, despite being called on to testify. The panel of international politicians is examining the role of tech giants in safeguarding privacy and democratic rights. New Democratic party lawmaker Charlie Angus said Tuesday the Facebook executives were showing disrespect to legislators around the world. Facebook has serious responsibilities in terms of the misuse of the platform that has led to mass killings in Myanmar, the undermining of electoral systems around the world, the attack on private rights and citizen rights, Angus said. Conservative lawmaker Bob Zimmer said if the Facebook executives refuse to appear, they will be held in contempt. It was not clear exactly what consequences that might have. As soon as they step foot either Mr. Zuckerberg or Ms. Sandberg into our country they will be served and expected to appear before our committee, said Zimmer. The committee set up two chairs at a table with the pairs names on cards. The chairs sat empty. Kevin Chan and Neil Potts, two of Facebooks global policy directors, did appear. Potts said they were appearing as subject matter experts for their company. The committee is made up of politicians from Canada, the United Kingdom, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, France, Ireland, Latvia and Singapore. We are grateful to the Committee for the opportunity to answer their questions today and remain committed to working with world leaders, governments, and industry experts to address these complex issues. As we emphasized, we share the Committees desire to keep people safe and to hold companies like ours accountable, Facebook said in an email to The Associated Press. Jim Balsillie, the former chief executive of Research In Motion, which invented the BlackBerry smartphone, testified earlier Tuesday that a toxic social media business model is a threat to democracy. Balsillie, now the chair of the Ontario Centre for International Governance Innovation, also offered a thinly veiled criticism of Zuckerberg and Sandberg for not responding to the committees summons to testify. By displacing the print and broadcast media in influencing public opinion, technology is becoming the new Fourth Estate. In our system of checks and balances, this makes technology co-equal with the executive, the legislative, and the judiciary, he said he said in testimony at the start of the second of three days of meetings in Ottawa. When this new Fourth Estate declines to appear before this committee as Silicon Valley executives are currently doing it is symbolically asserting this aspirational co-equal status ... The work of this international grand committee is a vital first step toward redress of this untenable current situation. In its remaining sessions in Ottawa, the committee is to hear from experts on how best governments can prevent the use of social media to violate individuals privacy, spread fake news, sow dissension and manipulate election outcomes. This weeks meeting the second since last years inaugural gathering in Britain is being hosted by Canadas House of Commons committee on access to information, privacy and ethics. What to Know Nearly every U.S. child contracted measles before the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine was introduced in 1963. About half a million new cases were reported to the CDC annually between 1942 and 1962. Measles was eliminated from the U.S. in 2000. More than 900 cases have been reported this year. Cheryl Healton remembers the look on her mother's face when the then 8-year old was diagnosed with measles in 1961. "I could tell by her reaction that my life was at risk," said Healton, now 66 and the dean of New York University's College of Global Public Health. It was. While measles is best known for the rash it produces, the disease leaves people sick with a fever, runny nose, and can lead to complications like pneumonia, brain swelling and, in some cases, even death. Nearly every American child contracted measles at some point before the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine was introduced in 1963. About half a million new cases were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention every year between 1942, the first year it was tracked, and 1962. Most cases went unreported, and the CDC estimates up to 4 million people actually caught the measles every year. About 400 to 500 people died, 48,000 were hospitalized and 1,000 suffered encephalitis, or brain swelling. That changed when the MMR vaccine hit the market. Measles cases started plummeting. A resurgence in the late 1980s and early 1990s led health officials to recommend babies get two doses of the MMR shot instead of the previously recommended one. It also caused them to realize some children weren't getting vaccinated because they were uninsured or underinsured and they couldn't afford it, said Dr. Nancy Messonnier, acting director of the CDC's National Center for Preparedness and Response. Lawmakers created the Vaccines for Children Program in 1993 that allows children who can't afford vaccines to get them for free. Seven years later, in 2000, the CDC declared measles eliminated from the U.S., meaning the disease was no longer being transmitted between Americans. But people no longer saw the measles as a threat, and that was a problem. British physician Dr. Andrew Wakefield published a study in 1998 which has since been retracted that wrongfully claimed the MMR vaccine caused autism. His work is largely credited with giving birth to the so-called anti-vaxx movement that's scared some parents into refusing to vaccinate their children. Eighteen studies from seven different countries on three different continents have since proven children who receive the vaccine are at no greater risk of getting autism, but the fear still exists, said Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. "It's hard to unscare people," he said. "It's easy to scare them. It's much harder to unscare them." Messonnier said it's important people understand how "extensively and thoroughly" the MMR vaccine is studied. Prevention efforts rely on herd immunity where most people in a community are vaccinated, creating a "societal cushion" that protects people who cannot be vaccinated, she said. When that breaks down, measles can spread quickly and easily. The disease is among the most contagious in the world, and it's still common in some parts of the world. An estimated 7 million people were affected by the measles in 2016, according to the World Health Organization. Global measles deaths decreased 84%, dropping to 89,780 in 2016 from 550,100 in 2000. Measles has started to spread again in recent years as more parents refuse to vaccinate their children, even though health officials stress immunizations are the best way to protect against the measles. The WHO reported a 300% increase in measles cases in the first three months of this year compared with the same time last year. This year, health officials are battling the worst year for the disease in 25 years after unvaccinated Americans brought the disease back after visiting the Philippines, Ukraine and Israel, among other countries. The CDC has confirmed 940 new cases of measles so far this year through Friday, largely in unvaccinated children. "What [this year's increase in cases] shows us is that our ability to control measles is fragile," Messonnier said. Yet it's possible to eliminate measles "from the face of this Earth" because the MMR vaccine "is good enough to do that," Offit said. Two doses of the vaccine are 97% effective, according to the CDC. For those in public health who have watched measles cases plummet over the years, watching it make a comeback is shocking. "If you would have told me five years ago I would have laughed and said that's not possible," said Healton. "But the internet has made it possible." This story first appeared on CNBC.com. More from CNBC: What to Know A Lyft passenger was caught on camera brutally attacking his driver in Queens on Thursday The driver says he wasn't seriously injured in the attack but is considering finding a new job Police are now looking for the passenger Police are looking for a Lyft passenger who was caught on camera savagely attacking his driver in the middle of a ride in Queens. Video of Thursday's brutal attack was provided to News 4 by driver Eduardo Madiedo, who was not seriously injured in the attack. The footage shows the pickup beginning normally enough; a woman and man both get in the car and ask to be driven to Mount Sinai Hospital in Astoria. The male passenger appears to be in some sort of obvious distress and is seen laying down on the back seat and moaning. He then takes off his sweatshirt and irately asks the driver to speed up and weave through traffic. Madiedo pushes back, telling the passenger "excuse me man, if you're going to be disrespectful, I'll just pull over right now." It's that remark that sets the passenger off. He whales on Madiedo from the back seat, and at one point tries to get in the front seat of the car, which is still in motion. The two passengers then get out of the car, and the man hits Madiedo again before running off. "I just felt like, less than human almost," he told News 4. Police are now looking to question the man, and Lyft says the passenger has been permanently banned from the service. Madiedo, meanwhile, says he is not sure if he'll ever drive a Lyft again. "I feel like I have to look for a new job or a new form of income," he said. Authorities in Connecticut continue their search for a missing mother of five who was last seen Friday, according to police and multiple reports. The New Canaan Police and Connecticut State Police are continuing their efforts and investigation to locate 50-year-old Jennifer Dulos. Dulos was last seen on Friday in New Canaan driving a 2017 black Chevrolet Suburban, police say. According to the Stamford Advocate, Dulos was in the midst of a longstanding custody battle with her husband of 13 years, whom she filed for divorce from in 2017. A hearing in the case had been scheduled for Wednesday morning. The Advocate reports Dulos and her husband had a temporary shared custody agreement pending the finalization of their divorce. Dulos had planned to move to New York's Pound Ridge with her children while her husband stayed at their home in Farmington, Connecticut, the Advocate said. Authorities urge anyone who had contact with Dulos or has information regarding her disappearance to call the New Canaan Police Tip Line at 203-594-3544. What to Know A community in New York City is taking a stand against anti-Semitism, hate and bias crimes during a unity rally Tuesday morning Rally comes after Synagogue of Satan was spray painted on wall of Chabad of Staten Island; DA says the alleged crime is being investigated However, Tuesday morning, as a show of solidarity, the black spray-painted words were painted over during a unity rally A community in New York City is taking a stand against anti-Semitism, hate and bias crimes during a unity rally Tuesday morning. The gathering, which brought together lawmakers and clergy members comes after an alleged incident in which graffiti spelling out Synagogue of Satan was spray painted on a wall of Chabad of Staten Island located in the Manor Heights section of Staten Island. However, Tuesday morning, as a show of solidarity, the black spray-painted words were painted over during a unity rally. The graffiti appeared as reports of anti-Semitic crimes to the NYPD are on the rise in the city. Members of the community were initially considering keeping the incident quiet, but decided to speak out to double down on their message of love and in hopes that the suspect or suspects behind the incident is brought to justice. When cowards rise up ion hate their objective is to frighten and silence the Jewish community, Rabbi Moshe Katzman said during the rally. To those who want us gone, I say this: not only are we not going anywhere, we are redoubling our efforts to reach out to every person on Staten Island with love. Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon said the investigation into what occurred is vigorous and ongoing. There is a lot of information we are working with, McMahon said. We are asking the community if they have seen anything to let us know. McMahon tells NBC 4 New York he is confident that the perpetrator or perpetrators will be caught and not only charged with a hate crime, but also trespassing since the wall where the graffiti was found is on the other side of a gate. After a Colorado school district switched to a four-day week this school year, students had to find something to do with their Mondays, NBC News reported. 27J Schools was the largest district to make the change, and at the end of the experiment's first year, kids and parents have relished having three-day weekends while parents worried about child care for younger students and unstructured free time for older ones. "I'll be relieved that they'll be back on a five-day schedule. It's what pretty much every human on earth works or goes to school for," said Brody Mathews, a small business owner with two children in elementary school. But the district's teachers are the lowest paid in the Denver metropolitan area and it's seen more and more promising teacher applications since going down to four extended days of school instead of the traditional five. Real estate mogul Franklin Haney contributed $1 million to President Donald Trump's inaugural committee and all he's got to show for the money is the glare of a federal investigation. The contribution from Haney, a prolific political donor, came as he was seeking regulatory approval and financial support from the government for his long-shot bid to acquire the mothballed Bellefonte Nuclear Power Plant in northeastern Alabama. More than two years later, he still hasn't closed the deal. His tale is a familiar one in Washington, where lobbyists and wealthy donors use their checkbooks to try to sway politicians. It's a world Haney is accustomed to operating in and one that Trump came into office pledging to upend. Yet Trump has left in place many of the familiar ways to wield influence. Haney's hefty donation to Trump's inaugural committee is being scrutinized by federal prosecutors in New York who are investigating the committee's finances. Their probe is focused in part on whether donors received benefits after making contributions. Trump's former personal attorney, Michael Cohen, has given prosecutors information regarding Haney, his son and business associate, Frank Haney Jr., and the nuclear plant project, according to a person familiar with what Cohen told the authorities. The person was not authorized to speak publicly and requested anonymity. Haney had briefly hired Cohen to help obtain money for the Bellefonte project from potential investors, including the Middle Eastern country of Qatar. Cohen is now serving a three-year prison sentence for tax evasion, lying to Congress and campaign finance violations. Haney and his attorney did not respond to interview requests. Prosecutors also are examining whether foreigners unlawfully contributed to the committee. Federal prosecutors in Manhattan issued a subpoena last year seeking a wide range of financial records from the committee, including any "communications regarding or relating to the possibility of donations by foreign nationals." The inaugural committee has denied wrongdoing and said its funds were fully accounted for. Haney, 79, has previously faced accusations that his political gift giving is aimed at cultivating influence. An investigation by House Republicans in the late 1990s alleged that Haney's money and his political pull with senior Clinton administration officials helped him to get the Federal Communications Commission to move into an office building that he had a major stake in. Haney denied any wrongdoing and the Justice Department declined to pursue the matter. But he was charged in 1999 with funneling about $100,000 in illegal contributions to President Bill Clinton, Vice President Al Gore and other politicians, then acquitted. A federal prosecutor described Haney as a sophisticated fundraiser who hoped to impress potential business clients with his access to elected officials, like Clinton and Gore. Haney's family-owned real estate business donated thousands of dollars in 2013 and 2015 to political action committees that supported Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley, who later recommended that the nuclear plant Haney wanted to buy be put up for sale. Haney also contributed to a nonprofit created to promote Bentley's agenda. The Republican governor resigned in 2017 as he faced impeachment proceedings after an alleged affair with an aide. In addition to the investigation into Haney's contribution to the Trump inaugural committee, Haney is in an unrelated legal battle with the nuclear plant's owner, the Tennessee Valley Authority. Another Haney company, Nuclear Development LLC, has filed a lawsuit in federal court accusing the TVA, the nation's largest public utility, of illegally blocking the plant's sale to him at the last minute. The utility has argued it couldn't complete the transaction because Haney failed to get the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's approval for transfer of the construction permits. A tentative Bellefonte sale in November 2016 involved two partially constructed nuclear reactors and the supporting cooling towers, several other buildings and more than 1,000 acres of land on the Tennessee River. Haney put down $22 million and had until November 2018 to complete the $111-million sale. On Nov. 29, the day before the sale was to be closed, the TVA scrapped the deal, declaring that Haney's company had not yet secured regulatory approval as required by the Atomic Energy Act. Haney filed a breach of contract lawsuit. In early April, about five months after Nuclear Development submitted its application for transfer of the construction permits, the regulatory commission's staff told the company it needed to submit more technical details before it could proceed. Edwin Lyman, a nuclear power expert at the Union of Concerned Scientists, said the response reflected skepticism about whether Haney's company "is serious about or capable of actually undertaking this project or just wants to put the license in its pocket for purposes unknown." But Lyman added the five-member nuclear regulatory board is dominated by Trump appointees and may not want to be seen by Congress and the Trump administration as throwing up roadblocks to a nuclear power expansion. Haney's Nuclear Development company also has applied to the U.S. Energy Department for financing assistance on the project. The department said it considers the loan application process to be "business sensitive" and declined to comment. Stephen Smith, executive director of the nonprofit Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, said Haney faces too many technical and financial hurdles to overcome. For example, Bellefonte's never-completed nuclear reactors are decades old and are of a unique design that has never received an operating license in the U.S. before. He compared Bellefonte to a Ford Pinto, a 1970s-era vehicle with serious engineering flaws. Smith said it's "extraordinarily unlikely" Bellefonte will be allowed to operate. Associated Press writer Jim Mustian and researchers Rhonda Shafner and Jennifer Farrar contributed to this report. Amanda Eller had an emotional reunion on Monday night with the men who rescued her after she was lost for 17 days in a Hawaiian jungle, hugging them tight in thanks for saving her life. "You guys are the heroes,'' Eller said during a community gathering. "I am not the hero, I am just the girl sitting here healing my ankles." Eller, 35, is still recovering following her rescue on May 24 when she was spotted by a helicopter team after spending more than two weeks in a jungle on the island of Maui. "I am so blessed for every breath that I take,'' Eller said. She gave thanks to the hundreds of people in the local community who spent weeks contributing to the efforts to find her. "I've never experienced anything like this where the community is showing up with so much freakin' heart and so much passion, and these guys were not going to give up on me, thank God!" she said on Monday night. "It was incredible to see her (on Monday night),'' rescuer Javier Cantellops told Savannah Guthrie on TODAY Tuesday. "She was just so incredibly gracious to every single person who came to her." Her friend Sarah Haynes, who helped coordinate the search effort, gave an update on Eller's condition on TODAY Tuesday. "She's doing great,'' Haynes said. "She's got a little bit of a one step backward, two steps forward situation, but she's spiritually great. She's going through a very grueling process on her legs, where they need to remove the tops of the wounds and it's very painful, much like a burn victim. "Physically, she's gone backward a little bit. She walked out of the hospital, now she's in a wheelchair, but it's all part of the healing process, so she's still moving forward." The yoga instructor and physical therapist suffered a fractured leg, severe sunburn and a skin infection during her ordeal. She had gone for a hike on May 8 and become disoriented without her phone and GPS after stopping to meditate and rest. Eller was also without shoes and socks on rocky terrain for about 12 days because one night she slept in a cave and a flash flood washed them away, according to Haynes. There were times when Eller questioned whether she would survive. "She had kind of resigned herself to talking to the universe and saying 'Hey look, I really don't want to go, but if this is my highest purpose for some reason, then I'll accept it, but I'm really hoping that you'll allow me to have a higher purpose with this story and my situation,''' Haynes said. While flying by in a helicopter, Cantellops, Chris Berquist and Troy Helmer spotted her waving from an area five miles deep into the jungle. Cantellops said on TODAY that they only had about five minutes' worth of fuel remaining in the helicopter when they spotted Eller in an area where her boyfriend had suggested to look early in the search process. "That moment will live down in the depths of my soul forever,'' he said. "We're coming up this waterfall and look down and she appears out of the wood. It can only be described as magic. It was the greatest single moment of my life." The area where they found her was between two waterfalls and a steep canyon. "I don't go in that valley because it's so steep and there's so many boxed canyons that you're not coming out of there,'' Helmer told NBC's Molly Hunter on TODAY Tuesday. Eller survived by eating jungle fruit, drinking river water and sleeping in mud for warmth. She could only move by crawling after she fell off a 20-foot cliff and fractured a leg. "It did come down to life and death and I had to choose ... and I chose life,'' Eller said in a Facebook video on Saturday. "I wasn't going to take the easy way out." Eller has returned home with her family as the painful wounds in her legs continue to heal. She is expected to share more of her ordeal in a press conference at the hospital on Tuesday. "If anyone could survive that it was her," her father, John Eller, said on the day she was rescued. This story first appeared on TODAY.com. More from TODAY: Stephen Peltons EcoSmart Home Services in Berlin, Connecticut, expanded into installing rooftop solar panels about eight years ago, an outgrowth of work making houses more energy efficient. But now that the state is discontinuing one of its solar incentives, he is worried. A change in the way that utility customers are compensated for the excess energy that they generate is pitting solar advocates against the utilities and drawing the state into a battle that has been playing out across the United States. Advocates argue solar energy will become less financially attractive just as the state is aiming to use more renewable fuel not less. Utilities, worried about consumers buying less electricity from the electric grid, are trying to put a dent in the solar business, they say. In Connecticut, only 1.5% of the state's electricity comes from solar energy, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. Utilities counter that new billing system will be fairer to all of their customers, an argument being made throughout the country. Without a change solar customers pay less of the cost of the electric grids upkeep, they say. For Pelton, the companys chief executive officer, the policy shift foreshadows fewer customers for solar installations. If the law takes effect later this year, the company would focus instead on energy efficiency and other home improvements, but EcoSmart Home Services would likely lose four or five people from its staff of about 30, he said. Unless the state comes up with a plan and puts something in place for the long term then we're going to have a problem with solar going back to a small niche market, Pelton said. Frequent and Longer Power Outages Customers in Connecticut now sell their unused solar energy to the grid at the retail rate and are billed only for their net energy use, a practice called net metering. The state last year decided to phase out that system in favor of new rates, called tariffs, at which utilities would buy energy and renewable energy credits. Consumers would be offered two options: the buy-all, sell-all choice in which they would sell all of the solar power they generate at a rate set by states Public Utilities Regulatory Authority and buy back what they need at the retail rate, and a second choice in which the utility would buy unused energy in a time period to be set by the authority. Existing customers with solar panels would be grandfathered under the net metering compensation until 2039. But now Connecticut is rethinking last years decision. A bill that would delay the change and require a study of the value of solar energy is being considered by the states General Assembly. Clean energy advocates say that neither option will likely be as advantageous to solar customers as the current net metering and that the change will send the state in the wrong direction at a time when the country is grappling with how to respond to threats from climate change. The Fourth National Climate Assessment, a federal government report released last year, warns that unless significant action is taken to curb global warming, climate-related risks will continue to grow, damaging the environment, the economy and Americans health. As for the countrys energy system, extreme weather is expected to increasingly disrupt it with more frequent and longer lasting power outages, the report says. Utility companies and their allies across the country counter that a new compensation system is needed to serve all customers equitably. Without the change, a cost shift takes place with those without solar panels paying a disproportionate share of maintaining wires, poles, transformers and other fixed costs associated with a grid, they say. Utilities have been lobbying for changes that would lessen the economic benefits for residents or businesses to generate their own electricity through solar panels, said Sean Gallagher, the vice president of state affairs for the Solar Energy Industries Association. Theyre not really sure how this is all going to shake out and so we see these proposals that sort of slow down the revolution thats coming at them, he said. The Edison Energy Institute, an association representing all U.S. investor-owned companies, argues instead that net metering has outlived its purpose. The intent of the original net metering policy was to incentivize early adopters, not create huge subsidies from one group of customers to another, it says in a 2016 statement on its website that it calls Straight Talk About Net Metering. Now that the cost of solar systems has come down significantly, there is no need for continued large subsidies. The utilities have gotten help from the conservative non-profit, the American Legislative Exchange Council, which has been funded in part by the billionaire activist brothers, Charles and David Koch. In 2014, it wrote model legislation on net metering for state policymakers to adopt a service it offers successfully on a variety of conservative issues. From 2010 through 2018, bills based on its ready-made legislation were introduced nationwide nearly 2,900 times in all 50 states and the U.S. Congress, with more than 600 becoming law, an analysis by USA Today and the Arizona Republic found. Changing Direction in Maine and Nevada Thirty-eight states plus Washington, D.C., had net metering rules in place in 2017, according to the North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center. Arizona, Hawaii, Indiana, Maine, Michigan and Nevada are among the states that eliminated net metering, but Maine and Nevada reversed course and reinstated it, some Indiana lawmakers would like to do the same and Michigan this year substituted a payment scheme different from a utility-proposed one. Maines Gov. Janet Mills said when she signed the new bill last month that the state had lagged behind other states in policies that advanced solar power. Maine ranked 40th nationwide in solar installation in 2018, according to the Solar Energy Industry Association. Nevada returned to net metering in 2017, and last year saw a 32% increase in clean energy jobs. Its clean energy economy is now dominated by energy efficiency, solar and energy storage, according to a report by E2, a non-partisan business group that supports policies that are good for the environment and the economy. The number of solar jobs would have been even higher if the data was collected today, because it would more fully reflect demand increases spurred by the 2017 restoration of net metering, the report said. Clean energy advocates in Connecticut are urging officials to avoid mistakes made by other states. Nearly 40 environmental groups, solar companies and others wrote to Connecticuts General Assemblys Energy and Technology Committee in February asking it to pause the implementation of the new program, which it said would jeopardize the 2,100 solar jobs in Connecticut. One organization that signed the letter was the Acadia Center, a non-profit organization focused on developing a clean energy economy. Amy McLean Calls, its Connecticut director and a senior policy advocate, notes that Vermont has installed four times more distributed solar or rooftop solar per person than Connecticut. Massachusetts has nearly two times more per person. The higher deployment rates in nearby states indicate that Connecticuts in-state solar industry could expand but it has to be supported by effective solar policies, which is why weve been working so hard to make sure that we dont go backwards and end up killing our solar industry, she said. No one is arguing that the system should not be fair everyone, she said. But what we are saying is, it doesnt exist right now, so we need to not kill it, she said. We need to ramp it up. However the state's consumer counsel, Elin Katz, whose job is to be a watchdog over the utility industry, favors a new approach. "I feel like net metering is picking a big winner, Katz told NBC Connecticut. But the net metering is also benefiting the solar installers at a very high level, too. Why are we picking them over offshore wind or battery storage or energy efficiency? Let's do things in a competitive manner which is how we started to do things in this state and then we can get things at a much more reasonable level. Solar advocates challenge the idea that different clean energy technologies are competing against one another. All are needed for the world to move away from fossil fuels. Studies Back Solar Advocates Connecticuts largest utility, Eversource Energy, favors eliminating net metering though it would not oppose delaying the switch. The utilities also need more time to prepare for the change. We believe replacing net metering with a tariff-based system would be fairer to all of our customers, a utility spokesman, Mitchell Gross, said in a statement. A delay in the phase out will also mean additional time to develop a program that is more transparent than the process currently in place. But if utilities argue that the change is necessary for the equal treatment of customers, some studies do not back them. One 2017 study, by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, concluded that for the vast majority of states and utilities, the effects of rooftop solar on retail electricity will likely remain negligible for the foreseeable future. At the time only Hawaii had utilities with solar penetration rates of 10% of electricity sales, it noted. Energy efficiency has had, and is likely to continue to have, a far greater impact on electricity sales than disturbed solar, it said. A review of a number of studies, conducted by the Brookings Institution in 2016, found that net metering frequently benefits all customers when all costs and benefits are accounted for, among them reduced capital investment costs, environmental compliance costs, emissions and and energy cost. Far from a net cost, net metering is in most cases a net benefitfor the utility and for non-solar rate-payers, it says. While these fights over the direction of solar energy have been taking place, climate change has become an urgent political issue, advocated in particular by younger people who are demanding candidates explain how they will curb greenhouse gases. Among Democratic presidential candidates, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and former Texas Rep. Beto ORourke have presented plans to get the United States to a carbon-neutral economy. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has rolled back many of former President Barack Obamas environmental policies. California has taken the lead in the United States as far as future rooftop solar projects and as of next year, it will require all new houses to include solar panels. In 2017, California generated 15.6% of its energy from solar. A solar industry update in May 2018 by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that Hawaii had residential systems on an estimated 31% of households living in single-family homes. In California that figure was 11%, while in Arizona it was 9%. A New Utility Model Across the world, solar and wind power are growing rapidly and are expected to become the dominant source of electricity, according to a report released last November by the International Energy Agency. The annual World Energy Outlook found that renewable energy could supply 40% of the worlds electricity by 2040, as the electricity sector goes through the most dramatic transformation since its creation more than a century ago. It will require grid investments, improved smart meters and battery storage technologies and new rules for how electricity markets work. The traditional utility business model needs to be replaced by one that encourages more distributed generation such as that produced by rooftop solar, promotes less energy use and takes into account the costs of climate change, said Karl Rabago, the executive director of the Pace University Law School Energy and Climate Center in White Plains, New York. Utility companies could continue to maintain the wires and grid stability, but customers who are producing solar energy and using energy efficiently are just as effective in meeting demand and at a lower cost, he said. We have to confront the question of the fundamental utility architecture, Rabago said. Is it capable of embracing this stuff? And what we find is that its not very adept at doing that. In Connecticut, Pelton of EcoSmart Home Services says it will become harder to sell solar panels if net metering is discontinued. Federal income tax credits are already scheduled to drop and then expire over the next three years and adding solar energy systems will become less attractive to homeowners, he said. "All of sudden that conversation at the kitchen table doesn't go so well," he said. "We would like to have a little stability." The Philadelphia Police Department intends to deploy more officers onto city streets this summer in an effort to curb deadly gun violence, Commissioner Richard Ross announced Tuesday. Ross revealed the department's plans one day after a 17-year-old was hit by a stray bullet while playing video games inside his North Philadelphia home. The victim, who is expected to recover, had just attended his senior prom over the weekend. "These are real people and real families that are affected by gun violence," Ross said. "All of it is senseless. Not some of it - all of it." Police already added extra boots on the ground during the Memorial Day weekend, he added. Some of these officers came from administrative assignments and will continue to deploy as temperatures, and tempers, flare this summer. As of Tuesday morning, Philadelphia police recorded 130 murders, which is 10 more than this time last year, according to city data. Ross attributed much of this violence to drugs, as he did in 2018, but also to firearms. Approximately 90 percent of those murders involved guns, Ross said. The majority of these crimes were commited by young men between the ages of 18 and 34, he said. "We still have a long way to go," Ross said. "We will not rest until we continue to drive down violence as a whole but particularly gun violence." Despite the rise in homicides, overall crime remains down in Philadelphia. Ross pointed to recent successes in diversion programs and other alternatives currently being pursued by the police department. This includes SAT tutoring, offered in conjunction with Villanova University, plus mentoring and career programs for at-risk youth and adults. More than 61 people have already found jobs through the Turning a New Corner initiative, which was launched last year. We've got to drop that moniker that were the biggest poor city in the country," Ross said. "That is one thing that doesnt bode well for us. Weve got to move that needle. This holistic approach to law enforcement is keeping in step with policies also being pursued by the Philadelphia Mayor's Office and District Attorney's Office. In January, Mayor Jim Kenney unveiled a sprawling plan to reduce gun violence. His recommendations included job training, crisis intervention teams and cleaning up neighborhoods. Earlier this year, District Attorney Larry Krasner said his office will use a decade-old but barely enforced law to prosecute cases in which gun owners fail to report lost or stolen guns. Anyone who breaks this law will face a $2,000 fine and up to 90 days in jai l. What to Know MLB placed Phillies outfielder Odubel Herrera on administrative leave following his arrest following a domestic assault incident. Atlantic City police say a woman told them that she suffered visible injuries to her arms and neck during a domestic dispute with Herrera. "The Phillies take any domestic violence accusation seriously, and strongly support the Joint Domestic Violence Policy," the team said. Odubel Herrera is on paid administrative leave after police in Atlantic City, New Jersey, charged the Phillies outfielder with assault following a domestic abuse allegation Monday. The 27-year-old former All-Star, whose full name is David Odubel Herrera, was arrested around 8:30 p.m. on Memorial Day at the Golden Nugget Casino. A 20-year-old woman, who identified herself as Herrera's girlfriend, had visible signs of injury to her arms and neck that were caused by Herrera during a dispute, Atlantic City police said. In a criminal complaint obtained by NBC10, police describe the injuries as "minor," but do say that the woman had "hand print markings to her neck area" and "small scratches" on her arms. Atlantic City Police The woman, who is from Philadelphia, refused medical treatment, investigators said. Herrera was arrested in his hotel room without incident, police said. Herrera, a starting center fielder in his fifth year with the Phillies, had a day off on Monday after the team wrapped up a road trip Sunday. He was given a summons and a future court date is pending, police said. The Phillies alerted Major League Baseball about Herrera's arrest, the team said. MLB then placed the Venezuelan native on paid administrative leave, which is basically a temporary paid suspension to allow time for the league to investigate. "The Phillies take any domestic violence accusation seriously, and strongly support the Joint Domestic Violence Policy agreed upon by MLB and the MLBPA," the team said in a brief release. MLB's domestic violence policy was adopted in 2015. Under the policy, players accused of domestic violence are subject to an internal MLB investigation that could result in psychological evaluations, mandatory counseling sessions and full compliance with court orders. MLB has seven days to investigate the claims against Herrera. After that time they can ask for an extension or transfer the paid leave to a suspension without pay, according to the MLB Collective Bargaining Agreement. Herrera can request arbitration and ask for reinstatement. Herrera has struggled offensively this season, batting .222 with one homer, 12 runs and 16 RBIs in 39 games with the Phillies. The casino declined to comment. Herrera is due in court in June, the criminal complaint said. Phillies General Manager Matt Klentak addressed the charges during an interview Tuesday. He told reporters he was in a meeting preparing for next week's MLB Draft when he received a call, voicemail and text from Phillies Vice President of Communications Bonnie Clark informing him of the arrest. Klentak then contacted Phillies president Andy MacPhail, Phillies manager Gabe Kapler, the team's ownership and Major League Baseball. "We spent the better part of the morning on the phone with the league figuring out next steps and learning more information, Klentak said. Klentak also told NBC10 he and Kapler spoke with Herrera to inform him that hed be placed on administrative leave for at least seven days. Herrera did not give an explanation for what happened but apologized, according to Klentak. I think the best approach in this matter is to operate with an element of transparency and honesty, Klentak said. So as we get more information, well share it. Phillies player Nick Williams will return to the starting lineup in place of Herrera during Tuesdays game against the St. Louis Cardinals. He will start in left field and bat eighth in the lineup. If you've been the victim of domestic violence or know someone who is, please call the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-866-723-3014. [NATL] Top Sports Photos: Washington Nationals Win World Series, and More A fire that may have been intentionally set at a medical center in Linda Vista sent smoke billowing over the building Tuesday morning. The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department was called to the building off Linda Vista Road north of Ulric Street at about 5 a.m. When they arrived, flames could be seen on coming from the outside of the building, the SDFD said. Black smoke was rising above the building. The cause of the fire was not known but crews said the fire appeared suspicious. Metro Arson Strike Team (MAST) investigators were requested. No injuries were reported. San Diego police were diverting traffic around the area as firefighters investigate. No other information was available. Please refresh this page for updates on this story. Details may change as more information becomes available. A 4-year-old boy is lucky to be alive after being attacked by an 80-pound wild cat, likely a mountain lion, in a Rancho Penasquitos canyon on Memorial Day, a wildlife official said Tuesday. A female mountain lion suspected of attacking the boy was shot and killed by wildlife officers hours later, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) spokesperson Lt. Scott Bringman said. Officials said the four-year-old boy was "extremely lucky" after a possible mountain lion attack. The boy was hiking with a group of six adults and five children in the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, in an area known as Carson's Crossing at the center of the preserve, when the animal attacked at about 2:30 p.m., SDFD Battalion Chief Rick Ballard told NBC 7. Bringman said the boy's father should be commended for his quick actions. While the rest of the group dispersed, the father "threw rocks and the animal left the scene." After a four-year-old boy was attacked by a large cat, officials killed a mountain lion. NBC 7's Audra Stafford has more on DNA testing that may prove if the slain animal was the one from the attack. The boy was, "Extremely lucky, I mean an 80-pound lion could really did some damage and luckily the dad was there and fended off the animal," he said. The child was rushed to Radys Children Hospital with head wounds, Ballard said. DFW said the boy's injuries were non-life threatening but consistent with a mountain lion attack. Mountain lion tracks were also found at the scene. While the agency was investigating the attack, a female mountain lion that appeared "habituated" approached them. Wildlife officers shot and killed the animal. "The animal did not appear to be scared of the wardens, which is an indication that the animal is habituated," Bringman said. "So at that point in time the animal was euthanized." DFW will transport the animal's body and the boy's clothing and other samples to a a laboratory in Sacramento for analysis. Wildlife forensics specialists will attempt to match DNA evidence from the animal to the boy, Bringman said. Bringman said it was unusual that the animal returned to the same area just hours after the attack. Mountain lions are not typically spotted, even though they live in the area. The DFW must still confirm if the animal that was subdued was the same animal that left the boy with wounds to his head on Monday. After a four-year-old boy was attacked by a big cat, rangers shot a mountain lion. NBC 7's Joe Little has more. "Once it attacks somebody, and based on the evidence that this animal being habituated, wasnt scared of the wardens, it is a problem. We do not relocate them because that animal will be a problem somewhere else," he said. The last time a mountain lion attacked in San Diego County was in Dec. 1994, when a 56-year-old woman was killed at Cuyamaca State Park, according to the DFW. The only other attack dating back to 1986 was of a 10-year-old girl in Sept. 1993. Residents in the area said there were reports of a big cat in the area before. "It was pretty spooky because we've known there is a big cat down here and we like to go to Carson's Crossing where the big cat has been seen," nearby resident Katherine Weadock said after learning of the attack. A recording informs visitors the trails at Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve were closed Tuesday due to a wildlife issue. The trailhead at Park Village Road was marked with caution tape, but an NBC 7 camera crew spotted two cyclists and a jogger enter the canyon. The preserve is located between Rancho Penasquitos and Sorrento Hills, just north of Mira Mesa. It covers seven miles between the merge of Interstates 5 and 805 to just east of Interstate 15. Bringman said the preserve would remain closed until lab testing confirmed the mountain lion that was killed was the same mountain lion that attacked the four-year-old. Neighbors told NBC 7 signs are frequently posted near the trail when wild felines are reported. "We walk in this canyon all the time so it is a bit scary that you can get attacked like that," resident Marcela Reices said. Bobcats and coyotes are known to live in the preserve. Residents hike through the area to see a waterfall, a freshwater marsh and a grove of sycamore trees. With the addition of housing into the foothills in San Diego County, there have been an increasing number of reports of wildlife spotted in yards and near homes. In October, one resident in Chula Vista contacted the state and the federal government when she noticed four bobcats in her Eastlake neighborhood. One Poway homeowner shared video with NBC 7 after she said she spotted two mountain lions in her yard in July. That same month two bobcats activated a Carmel Valley resident's home-security motion lights and could be seen jumping around playing with their dinner. The woman said they were in their backyard for about three hours overnight. Some of the most striking video NBC San Diego received in 2018 showing a big cat near humans was the curious bobcat captured outside the Anza Borrego Desert Research Center. In all of these reported incidents over the last two years, no humans were injured in the interaction. In September 2016, a Carmel Valley woman was bitten by a bobcat that she had picked up when she saw it was injured. EDITOR'S NOTE (May 27, 2019, 10:14 p.m.): A previous version of this article stated the child was a girl. We have corrected the information from SDFD and regret the error. NBC 7's Dave Summers saw hikers and cyclist enter the trail after caution tape and warning signs were put up. A man whose wife disappeared while they honeymooned at sea was sentenced by a federal judge to eight years in prison. Lewis Bennett, 42, apologized to the family of Isabella Hellman during a Tuesday hearing before U.S. District Judge Federico Moreno in Miami. Defense attorneys sought a 7-year sentence, a year lower than the maximum number spelled out in a plea agreement on an involuntary manslaughter charge reached last November. "It's not because I expect that he will commit this crime again," Judge Moreno said. "Sentencing is for punishment." Before Moreno announced his decision, Bennett, a dual citizen of Australia and the United Kingdom, asked the judge that he let him get out of prison sooner so he could continue to raise the couple's daughter, who was an infant when the mother vanished. Emelia Bennet turns 3 in July and is being raised by his family in Scotland. "If you may permit me to be with my daughter as soon as possible," Bennett said. "I want to bring her up in a manner that is respectful to my wife's wishes." But Moreno sided with prosecutors and chose eight years in prison as the sentence and three years on supervised release. Hellman disappeared as the couple sailed off the Bahamas in May 2017. Her husband insisted he left Hellman on deck when he went to the boat's cabin to sleep. He said he woke up when the craft hit something, and Hellman was missing. The FBI says the catamaran's portholes were opened and the hull damaged from the inside. Assistant U.S. attorney Kurt Lunkenheimer said on Tuesday that Bennett "did not search for her diligently enough despite him being an experienced sailor." The defense attorney declined to comment, but an attorney for Hellman's family said her relatives were satisfied with the judge's decisions and were excited they would soon be able to visit Emelia in Scotland. "There's nothing more that can or could be done to bring Isabella back," said Mitchell Kitroser, a lawyer who spoke on behalf of the Hellman's family and said they were planning a visit in June. Emelia "lost her mom but that doesn't mean that she has lost her mom's family." "It's just a tragedy all the way around," he said. Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., on Monday defended recent remarks she made about the Holocaust and Israel and lashed out at President Donald Trump and GOP lawmakers for "spreading outright lies" about her, NBC News reported. During an interview on Yahoo Newss "Skullduggery" podcast released Friday, Tlaib was asked about her support for a one-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. Tlaib responded by noting that Holocaust Remembrance Day recently occurred and said, "There's kind of a calming feeling I always tell folks when I think of the Holocaust, and the tragedy of the Holocaust, and the fact that it was my ancestors, Palestinians, who lost their land and some lost their lives, their livelihood, their human dignity, their existence in many ways, have been wiped out, and some people's passports." She continued, "I mean, just all of it was in the name of trying to create a safe haven for Jews, post-the Holocaust, post-the tragedy and the horrific persecution of Jews across the world at that time, and I love the fact that it was my ancestors that provided that, right, in many ways. But they did it in a way that took their human dignity away, right, and it was forced on them. And so when I think about a one-state, I think about the fact that, why couldn't we do it in a better way?" A number of Republicans, including Rep. Liz Cheney, of Wyoming, slammed Tlaib for using the words "a calming feeling" when speaking about the Holocaust even though she appeared to say she had that feeling when thinking about a safe haven created for Jews after the Holocaust. Delta Air Lines employees are speaking out after they say the companys new uniforms have given some of them rashes and breathing problems. The airline unveiled its new line of uniforms for its employees last May. It didnt take long for the excitement of the uniform launch to turn into concern from some of Deltas 64,000 employees. Three flight attendants spoke with NBC10 Boston on the condition of anonymity for fear of losing their jobs. They said the uniforms have made them sick and the airline has not been responsive in helping them out. "I was experiencing breathing issues," an employee named Alex told NBC10 Boston. "My nose was running all the time. I was coughing and fatigued." Alex said he believes the issues were caused by the new uniform, and he is not alone. "I was tugging at my mock turtleneck at work, trying to get some air, and I just couldnt get any and my hair was falling out," another Delta employee named Jordan said. Some employees are speaking out on an online forum to share information about the rashes and burns they say theyve gotten as a result of the uniforms. One commenter posted a picture of a rash all over their neck and wrote, "I've had my uniform on for exactly 30 minutes..." Another commenter said their face broke out after wearing a sweater set. Delta has responded to the claims and said in a statement that it is working on a solution to the issue. "We want our employees to be able to safely wear the new garments with pride. Although Delta and Lands End conducted in-depth testing during every step of development, a small number of employees have reported skin irritations. While less than one percent of employees in the new uniform program have reported issues, Delta takes this very seriously and is working directly with employees on solutions that meet their individual needs." Some people have been allowed to wear an alternative uniform after they discussed their concerns. Others have not been as fortunate. "At first, they were willing to help. But then after that, they became extremely stubborn with allowing me to get back to work and allowing me to get out of the uniform," a Delta employee named Bobby told NBC10 Boston. Delta admits the company previously had problems with the "Passport Plum" color of the uniform. Some of the dye was rubbing off onto what it came into contact with. Towels, bras undershirts, seatbelts and even chairs were being stained after coming into contact with the clothing. "When outfitting as many as 65,000 employees, issues with how different employees react to a garment can occur for a variety of reasons," said Lands' End, the company that worked with Delta on the new uniforms. "We take each concern seriously and we work closely with Delta to attempt to find a solution that enables the employee to have a uniform that is both comfortable and functional." Bruce Maxwell, an attorney from Jacksonville, Florida, said hes had dozens of Delta employees contact him with their issues with the new uniform. "It's time for the wheels to be in motion to have some accountability," he said. "If Delta wants to have this family image amongst its employees, well, they need to treat them like that. Step up to the plate, do the right thing, acknowledge the problem and try to fix it." Although he hasnt filed a lawsuit himself, Maxwell plans to file workers comp claims for some flight attendants in Atlanta. Two Delta flight attendants have filed a proposed class-action lawsuit against Lands End, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health, part of the CDC, says it is "currently in the beginning stages of collecting information for the health hazard evaluation request by Delta employees." During day two of campaigning in the Granite State, Bernie Sanders packed the auditorium at the New Hampshire Technical Institute for a town hall that begin with a bit of bragging. "Our campaign is the strongest campaign to defeat the worst president in the history of the United States," he said. Four years ago Sanders was just introducing himself to voters around the country. Despite being a longtime senator, he was considered the anti-establishment option. This time around, while his policies are the same, he is a different candidate in many ways. "We are starting to see the real signs that Bernies campaign is more sophisticated than it was four years ago," political analyst Scott Spradling said. Spradling says behind the scenes, Sanders has done much more work to reach out to Democratic leaders in every state including super delegates, members of Congress and big-name Democrats. That's the groundwork it will take to beat the current front runner Joe Biden. "Hes not necessarily running as an outsider," Spradling said. "This is beginning to look more like an establishment campaign." Spradling says while Sanders is everywhere, Biden is running a very different kind of a race. "His visits are more selective. Hes not necessarily taking the Q&A. The interactions with the public are more limited," he said. Sanders audience had mixed feelings about the two front runners. "I think Bernie is a far stronger candidate than Joe Biden. Im 100% for him. I think he is the one person who can beat Trump," Victoria Abbott of Sanbornton said. "I think I might go Biden just because he seems to be more centrist and more able to kind of get things done in Washington," Zachary Holmes of Exeter said. Whether Bernie Sanders, Joe Biden or anyone of the 22 other candidate feel Democrats will ultimately go with the candidate who will best beat Donald Trump. Arrest warrants have been issued for a Massachusetts man suspected in a hit-and-run crash in Westport earlier this month that resulted in the death of a Fall River woman. The Bristol County District Attorney's Office announced Tuesday they issued arrest warrants charging Gerardo Lugo, 54, of Fall River with leaving the scene-death resulting, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, and driving with a suspended license. The warrants were issued last week after the suspect vehicle, a gray BMW, was located and seized following an anonymous tip. Thirty-year-old Stephanie Tripp, of Fall River, was hit by a car on May 7 on Old Bedford Road, according to authorities. Police received a call about the crash around 8:15 p.m. and responded to the scene, where they found Tripp lying facedown in the breakdown lane. Tripp was was taken to Rhode Island Hospital in critical condition and died from her injuries May 16. The district attorney's office said during the execution of a search warrant at Lugo's apartment last week, investigators found the keys to the BMW and a plastic bag containing about 200 grams of suspected heroin. As a result, he will also be charged with trafficking heroin in excess of 100 grams. Anyone who knows of Lugo's whereabouts is urged to contact Massachusetts State Police at 508-961-1928 or Westport Police detectives at 508-636-1122. Connecticut has joined five other states and District of Columbia on a path to increase its minimum wage to $15 per hour in the coming years. Gov. Ned Lamont signed the bill into law Tuesday, over a week after it passed the General Assembly. He was joined by Democratic leaders from the General Assembly and leaders from organized labor who helped pass the measure. We tried and failed a couple of times and this year we got it done, Lamont said during the bill signing. With the law in place, the first increase of the minimum wage will happen in October of this year to $11, from the current hourly floor of $10.10. In 2023, Connecticut minimum wage will reach the goal of $15. For fast food workers like Angelo Candelario, who has worked in places like Wendys and Dunkin, he views the increased wages as an incredible gift. Ill be able to pay more than one or two bills. I will be able to put 10, $20 into savings, Candelario said. Thats whatll open up the mental horizon, knowing you could save something for another day. Connecticuts business community had been fighting hard against an increase to the minimum wage over the past four months. The Connecticut Business and Industry Association sent an open letter to lawmakers Tuesday calling on them to stop before passing similar legislation to the minimum wage that increases costs on businesses. The groups CEO Joe Brennan, who speaks on behalf of hundreds of members said, My concerns for Connecticut are compounded by the General Assembly's direction. There are way too many bills progressing through the legislature that will, quite frankly, make it harder rather than easier for companies to keep and add jobs here. This is particularly true for small businesses. One of those members, Geaorge Frantzis, who owns Quassy Amusement Park in Middlebury, said he anticipates cutting back on some staff to make up for the increased wages being mandated by the state. Were going to do everything we can to cut back and were going to look at our staffing and scheduling and plan accordingly, he said. He was also blunt in his assessment of the minimum wage passing, saying, It put a shot across the bow that Connecticuts government isnt business friendly. Supporters, like Rep. Robyn Porter, (D New Haven), disagree. She, and others, argue that higher wages will lead to more money being spent in the state economy, which will lead to growth for the state. She says even the small dollar figure of $40 per week for some full time employees this fall, will make a difference. During that debate, it was said that $15 is not a livable wage. No, its not, but its one step closer. Right? And thats how we make things happen. One step at a time. The bill signing was held at Carecentrix. It also has its headquarters in the state. The companys COO and President Laizer Kornwasser, provided allies with a boost, telling his story of the decision the company made to raise wages for its own workers. He says the move paid off, saying the company doubled in size since wages increased. We made the decision to increase the minimum wage that we pay our employees because we felt that was the right thing to do, Kornwasser said. We made the decision to increase the minimum wage to our employees because we knew we were investing in our single most important resource, our single most important asset, our employees. Any Maine company with more than 10 employees must now offer earned paid leave. Thats the premise of a new state policy signed into law by Maine Governor Janet Mills on Tuesday. An employee at one of the affected businesses will now earn one hour of paid leave for every 40 hours worked for a single employer, after theyve worked there 120 days. Seasonal business are excluded, which helped win bipartisan support for the law, which is unique compared to ten or so other state with similar regulations because it does not require the employee to miss work for an illness. The carve out of seasonal employers were two specific areas that we had to find common ground, said Sen. Rebecca Millett, who represents Maine District 29 and spearheaded the law during its creation and compromise. Millett says the laws ability to preempt municipalities that wanted to enact their own paid sick time ordinances also won it support. Some leaders in Portland had pushed for their own paid sick time ordinance despite opposition from major businesses like MaineHealth, one of the states largest employers. The healthcare network testified openly against the Portland plan because it took away flexibility from MaineHealths existing paid time off plan that its employees supported. But MaineHealth supported the statewide effort in the legislature saying it has more leeway than Portlands proposal. We offer competitive benefits and operate in a national and almost international recruitment world so we need to be able to provide the benefits that employees across the nation and even the globe are looking for, said Katie Fullham Harris, MaineHealths senior vice president of government relations. Maine businesses will have a period of time to adapt to the new law before the Department of Labor enforces it. The new policy does not go into effect until 90 days after Maines 2019 legislative session ends. A federal judge has dismissed a class-action lawsuit brought by three students who attended a Massachusetts college that abruptly closed. The lawsuit was filed in November against Mount Ida College and former administrators and trustees. The students alleged that college officials deliberately misled them about the severity of the school's financial problems before it closed in May 2018. The Newton campus was bought by the University of Massachusetts Amherst. U.S. District Judge Richard Stearns noted in his order issued last week that Mount Ida's publicly available financial disclosures showed that the school had been operating at a deficit since 2015. He also rejected the students' claim that Mount Ida's closure amounted to a breach of contract between the school and the students. Since the Revolutionary War, more than 37,000 men and women from Massachusetts have given their lives defending the country. Today is all about taking time to remember them. On a beautiful massachusetts day, in cities and towns around the state, people gathered at cemeteries to honor those who died for our country. Im obligated to do my duty here, honoring our dead who sacrificed their lives for our country so that people could live free. From Worcester to Medford, veterans, clergy and elected officials also paid tribute to current service men and women as well as veterans who are still alive. "There are soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen and Coast Guardsman standing watch around the world at this very instant," Mike Rush said. In Boston, Mayor Marty Walsh thanked those who showed up but also called on citizens of all ages going forward to honor the war dead, not just the elderly. "We need to get some of the younger millennials here as well," Walsh said."They need to understand and respect our country and the people who gave their lives and gave us what we have." There were gun saluts in Lexington, and at every event, a wreath laying, all to say thank you to the tens of thousands of |Massachusetts men and women who lost their lives for the country. Many of those who particapted in memorial day events today called on citizans throughout the state to take a moment in between picnics and bar-b-qs to remember what this holiday is really all about. House Speaker Robert DeLeo is assuring visitors to the Massachusetts Statehouse they're not being subjected to facial recognition. In a written statement, the Winthrop Democrat says: "There is no such technology used at the State House." The comment was part of a longer statement DeLeo's office sent out late Thursday in response to students who had gathered at the Statehouse for several days to protest higher education costs. One of the protesters said he was told by an unnamed official that the Statehouse uses facial recognition to match the faces of people who walk through public entrances with law enforcement databases. DeLeo denies the use of facial recognition at the Statehouse. The Statehouse has been ramping up security, recently adding additional security cameras throughout the building. Although the disturbance responsible for Memorial Day tornadoes near Dayton, Ohio dove southeast to the Mid-Atlantic, a related piece of atmospheric energy is moving due east into New England. The result has been increased clouds, followed by sprinkles that develops into rain as Tuesday wears on. Some thunder is expected in parts of Connecticut, Rhode Island and southeast Massachusetts Tuesday evening. Although severe thunderstorms are most likely in New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey Tuesday evening, a few of these storms may keep enough strength into southwest Connecticut to produce localized damage briefly Tuesday evening. Rain departs Tuesday night, but a patchy drizzle and coastal fog will linger into Wednesday morning. After the patchy drizzle, most of Wednesday should be dry albeit mostly cloudy and, as a result, cool. In an active weather pattern with the jet stream winds - the fast river of air aloft that steers disturbances - flowing near to New England, each disturbance that moves overhead will raise the chance of showers. One disturbance brings some showers and thunder Wednesday night, and another brings the same Thursday night. Well watch both for the potential of embedded strong thunderstorms. [NATL] Extreme Weather Photos: Record Heat Threatens Europe Drier air takes hold Friday and Saturday, ensuring sunshine and a great start to the weekend with highs in the 70s ahead of our next disturbance. That's slated to bring showers and thunder Sunday, though the timing is still to-be-determined. This will be important in understanding just how much of an impact on outdoor plans the showers will have. Next week, our spring stretch will continue with temperatures near or perhaps slightly above normal. Vermont state biologists are urging pet owners to never release their goldfish or other pet fish into storm drains or into the wild, saying the fish can be a threat to the environment. Its just a really bad idea, Shawn Good, a state fisheries biologist with the Vermont Department of Fish & Wildlife, said of dumping pet fish into ponds or storm drains. Among several discoveries of tropical or non-native fish in Vermont waters over recent years, Good pointed to one surprise in Williston. Town crews doing routine maintenance found goldfish swimming around in the drainsseemingly at home under the streets. Good theorized someone might have been moving, but couldnt take their fish tank with them, so simply dumped its contents down a nearby grate. Good told necn the problem is goldfish are hardy and can survive in cold New England waters. So if they were to reach a stream or Lake Champlain, they could harm the ecosystem by competing with native fish for food or habitat, or by introducing parasites, Good saidwhich could also hurt Vermonts critical outdoor recreation sector. If its not from Vermontdid not occur naturally in Vermont watersit should never be let go in Vermont waters, Good said in an interview with necn Tuesday. The biologist pointed to other memorable discoveries from over the years, including a cousin to a piranha once found in the Otter Creek, a Chinese catfish showing up in Lake Dunmore, and a game warden on his day off catching a 23-pound ornamental koi in the Connecticut River. All of those fish were not native to Vermont and were likely dumped by owners, Good said. At the Pet Advantage in South Burlington, owner Gabe Oullette counsels customers on the responsibilities of owning fish, including how long they can live. For folks who cant care for their fish for whatever reason, the shop is actually willing to take them in, Ouellette said. A pond inside the store is now home to several fish that were dropped off, he said. We probably get at least a couple a week, Ouellette said of phone calls to Pet Advantage from people looking to relinquish their fish. If we cant take them in, were more than willing to help you find somebody that can take them, so they dont end up in the ecosystem. Aside from potentially harming native species, releasing aquarium fish or plants into drains or the wild in Vermont could also bring cash fines, Good warned. Dont dump your aquarium, the biologist said. Wynn Resorts has paid a record $35.5 million in fines to Massachusetts and won't appeal the decision. The company's board of directors said the company on Tuesday paid the state a $35 million fine as well as $500,000 assessed to CEO Matthew Maddox ahead of Friday's deadline to pay the fines or appeal. The state's Gaming Commission says it received the payment. It fined the company and Maddox last month for failing to disclose allegations of sexual misconduct against company founder Steve Wynn. Steve Wynn has denied the sexual misconduct allegations against him but resigned as CEO last year. The company's Encore Boston Harbor casino is set to open June 23. Wynn Resorts had been negotiating to sell the $2.6 billion Everett facility to MGM Resorts, but those talks ended recently. Aggressive efforts to keep China-based telecom vendor Huawei out of the U.S. market by the Trump administration have thrust a slow-burning debate in the networking space about the security implications of using Chinese-made technology into the limelight over the last two weeks, yet the real-world implications for business users are less than apocalyptic. The basics of the administration's case against Huawei are simple. The companys close ties to the Chinese government, coupled with Chinas history of industrial and political espionage against the U.S., means that its products cant be trusted not to slip important information back to Beijing. The current crisis is only two weeks old, but these concerns about Huawei and other China-based tech vendors date back years. [ Now see 7 free network tools you must have. ] Yet those close government ties arent in and of themselves particularly suspicious, according to Glenn ODonnell, a vice president and research director with Forrester. Thats just the way you do business in China that doesnt meant that these companies are arms of Chinese-government intelligence agencies, he said. Its also worth remembering that no cut-and-dried proof that Huawei has engaged in any kind of direct espionage on behalf of Chinas government has ever been made public, and experts agree that the issue is much more about reputation than fact. Yet most say theyd be uncomfortable letting important packets touch the companys hardware. For businesses operating solely in the U.S., this is largely a non-issue. Huaweis profile in American service-provider networks is small and shrinking fast. Market share research from the DellOro Group shows that the companys piece of the North American pie amounts to between 1 percent and 2 percent as of 2018, and Gartner senior principal analyst Bill Menezes said that its mostly found in small, rural carriers. Its kind of a non-event in the U.S., he said, adding that the companys handsets hadnt gained much traction in North America Former Snooty Fox undergoes refurbishment A NEWBURY pub will go full circle when it reopens today (Tuesday). The Globe Inn will officially open its doors after undergoing a 330,000 refurbishment. The pub was previously called The Snooty Fox, but has reverted back to its original name. New licensees Colin and Katie Martin are taking over the running of the pub, which is owned by Star Pubs & Bars. Mr Martin said: Weve had a huge amount of interest in the place, so many people asking if they can come in and book a table. Its had a complete transformation. Weve done everything we can to keep the original features and tried to make it a much more welcoming place. This applies to mans best friend too as the couple aim to make The Globe dog-friendly and their border terrier Dave will play a part in the pubs revival too. The pub will give a warm welcome to customers four-legged friends, offering Pawsecco, water and dog treats and there will be a regular Yappy Hour for dog owners and dogs to get together. Mr and Mrs Martin have both given up corporate jobs in London to run The Globe, although both have pub backgrounds and come from publican families. Weve always wanted to run a pub together and we have always wanted to save a pub, Mr Martin said. You read about the amount of pubs that close on a daily basis. We saw it [The Snooty Fox] had been closed and that there had been interest in it. But not wanting to lose another pub to housing, the couple said it became their mission to save it. The building, which dates back to 1875, has been revamped with a contemporary look to expose the original timber flooring and brickwork. Booth seating and a snug will be created at the rear, complete with sofas and soft seating. The overhaul also involved replacing the toilets, refitting the kitchen and upgrading the cellar with state-of-the-art dispense equipment. Mr and Mrs Martin plan to give The Globe a cafe/bar feel during the day, serving pastries and light bites such as artisan sandwiches, salads and soups and coffee. NEW MILFORD Even as rain rolled through the area Tuesday, divers and first responders continued searching with no success for the missing teen last seen Monday swimming in Candlewood Lake. The diving teams have been unable to locate the missing swimmer, New Milford Mayor Pete Bass posted to Facebook about 5 p.m. Tuesday. State diving team will continue until dark then all diving teams will resume tomorrow morning. Authorities have not released the name of the 17-year-old boy, who apparently drowned in Candlewood Lake. Crews spent hours Monday searching for him below the water off Dike Point Park, where the teen had celebrated Memorial Day with friends. New Milford Police Sgt. Jim Dzamko said detectives have interviewed the missing teens friends. The teens had been swimming near Rock Island, where the water is 20 to 30 feet deep, Dzamko said. Dike Point Park, owned by FirstLight Power Resources, which also owns Candlewood, is a popular swimming area in New Milford. FirstLight implemented rules in 2016, restricting the number of people in the park to 60 and the number of cars to 10. Before that, hundreds of people would be in the park, leading to littering and similar problems. FirstLight did not return a request for comment. More for you Search continues for boy who possibly drowned in Candlewood Lake On Tuesday, boats with search dogs scanned the waters and shoreline south of the Gerards Waters Edge Marina, next to Dike Point Park. The murky waters hindered divers ability to find him, Dzamko said. Sonar equipment picked up several hits in the water, but it was unclear what it meant. It could be a body, Dzamko said. It could be a couple of rocks. Crews halted the search after darkness fell Monday and resumed the next day. The search turned into a recovery operation for the boys body on Tuesday. Officials from New Milford Police Department, the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and State Police gathered under a tent in the marinas parking lot Tuesday as the rain fell. Newtown Police Departments search and rescue dive teams truck was parked nearby. A New Milford ambulance was also in the parking lot throughout the day. Brookfield polices dive team did not end up getting in the water Monday, said Patrolman Joseph Kyek, who is on the team. The team of six could be called again to help relieve the divers, but as of Tuesday afternoon had not been asked, he said. The Danbury Fire Department sent mutual aid a little after 11:30 a.m. Tuesday to assist New Milford police with light and air at Gerards Marina. The last drowning death on Candlewood Lake was on Oct. 21, 2018. Gary Hayes, 48, of East Hartford, drowned after a boat capsized. Officials received a report around 12:30 p.m. about an overturned vessel with two men on board. The other man was able to swim to shore despite the cold water temperatures and refused medical treatment. Fifteen drowning deaths were recorded between 1998 and 2010, according to state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. The Associated Press contributed to this story. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Argentina and Algeria malaria-free in a historic announcement for the two nations. The WHO statement says that over the last few years there has been a slow down in the global fight against malaria. Mauritius was certified in 1973 and now Algeria becomes the second nation in the African region to be declared free of malaria. Paraguay was declared free of malaria in June 2018 and Argentina comes a close second to Paraguay in South America. Macro of mosquito (Aedes aegypti) sucking blood close up on the human skin. Mosquito is carrier of Malaria. Image Credit: PongMoji / Shutterstock Malaria, transmitted by the bites of infected mosquitoes takes hundreds of thousands of lives around the world each year. In 2017 there were 219 million cases of malaria recorded around the world and it killed around 400,000. Of these deaths 6 in 10 were among children less than five years of age says data from WHO. According to a statement from Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHOs director general, the achievement of Argentina and Algeria serves as a model for other countries working to end this disease once and for all. In both of these nations, the last locally transmitted cases of the disease were recorded in 2010 and 2013 respectively says the WHO. He said, Algeria and Argentina have eliminated malaria thanks to the unwavering commitment and perseverance of the people and leaders of both countries. At present around the world 38 countries and territories are declared free of malaria, says the report. The WHO says that treatment of the disease is only part of the effort to free a nation or community from the disease. It has been possible for these nations to remove malaria by concentrating on prevention of malaria transmission, early detection of cases by routine screening. Free and accurate diagnosis and treatment has served both nations to free themselves of this disease, says the WHO. Malaria Virus Cell - 3D illustration. Image Credit: Giovanni Cancemi / Shutterstock Dr Abdourahmane Diallo, chief executive officer of RBM Partnership to End Malaria, in a statement said, As well as saving precious lives and strengthening health systems, malaria-free status provides external economic benefits for these countries, enabling them to free up resources to address other health and development priorities. At a time when malaria cases are rising in the highest burden countries for the first time in more than a decade, celebrating and learning lessons from these victories is critical. This partnership comprises of over 500 stakeholders. Press release The WHO press release report on 22nd May 2019 says, Algeria and Argentina have been officially recognized by WHO as malaria-free. The certification is granted when a country proves that it has interrupted indigenous transmission of the disease for at least 3 consecutive years. Expert speak Dr Matshidiso Moeti WHO regional director for Africa in a statement said, Algeria is where the malaria parasite was first discovered in humans almost a century and a half ago, and that was a significant milestone in responding to the disease. Now Algeria has shown the rest of Africa that malaria can be beaten through country leadership, bold action, sound investment and science. The rest of the continent can learn from this experience. According to the WHO report French physician Dr Charles Louis Alphonse Laveran had first discovered and reported the malaria parasite in 1880 in Algeria. It is a great achievement for the nation to have come down to zero cases from the 80,000 yearly cases in the 1960s says the report. Dr Carissa F. Etienne, director of the WHO Pan American Health Organization, in a statement said, Argentina reported the last indigenous case in 2010 and has demonstrated the commitment, the capacity within its health, laboratory and surveillance systems, and the necessary financing to prevent the re-establishment of malaria within the country. I am sure that Argentina will serve as an inspiration and as an example for other countries of the Americas to achieve the elimination of malaria in the coming years. The WHO in a statement in November 2018 had said that there was stagnation in the move to remove malaria from around the world between 2015 and 2017. There has been a rise in number of malaria cases in 10 African countries including Nigeria, Madagascar and the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2017 compared to the previous year. The experts cite not only lack of funds as a reason for this rise but also resistance of the mosquitoes to insecticides used. Peter Sands, executive director of the Global Fund, a global aid partnership to help fight Aids, tuberculosis and malaria in a statement said, This is a historic achievement by Algeria and Argentina. He added, We need to step up the fight achieving elimination wherever possible and breaking the transmission cycle and thus get on track towards elimination in the hardest-hit countries. The 2018 World Malaria Report says that other nations close to achieving malaria-free status around the world are China, Rwanda, Ethiopia and Pakistan. Major case load is still being reported from Nigeria, DRC, Mozambique and Uganda, said the report. Worlds first malaria vaccine RTS,S or Mosquirix is being trialled in Malawi as part of a WHO-run project. The vaccine is to be administered four times once a month for three months and the fourth booster dose after 18 months. This year 25th of April was marked as the World Malaria Day by the WHO. This years slogan was Zero malaria starts with me. On that day the WHO collaborated with RBM Partnership to End Malaria, African Union Commission and other partners to promote their anti-malaria campaign. The report says that this new campaign is aimed at the grassroots and would keep malaria as part of the every vulnerable nations political agenda so that funds are mobilized along with resources and manpower for prevention of malaria and its effective diagnosis, treatment and care. In Switzerland, as in most industrialized countries, nearly 1% of children are born "very prematurely", i.e. before the 32nd week of pregnancy, which represents about 800 children yearly. While advances in neonatal medicine now give them a good chance of survival, these children are however at high risk of developing neuropsychological disorders. To help the brains of these fragile newborns develop as well as possible despite the stressful environment of intensive care, researchers at the University of Geneva (UNIGE) and the University Hospitals of Geneva (HUG), Switzerland, propose an original solution: music written especially for them. And the first results, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) in the United States, are surprising: medical imaging reveals that the neural networks of premature infants who have listened to this music, and in particular a network involved in many sensory and cognitive functions, are developing much better. The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the HUG welcomes each year 80 children born far too early - between 24 and 32 weeks of pregnancy, i.e. almost four months ahead of schedule for some of them. The vast majority will survive, but half will later develop neurodevelopmental disorders, including learning difficulties, attentional or emotional disorders. At birth, these babies' brains are still immature. Brain development must therefore continue in the intensive care unit, in an incubator, under very different conditions than if they were still in their mother's womb. Brain immaturity, combined with a disturbing sensory environment, explains why neural networks do not develop normally." Petra Huppi, professor at the UNIGE Faculty of Medicine and Head of the HUG Development and Growth Division, who directed this work A tailor-made music The Geneva researchers started from a practical idea: since the neural deficits of premature babies are due, at least in part, to unexpected and stressful stimuli as well as to a lack of stimuli adapted to their condition, their environment should be enriched by introducing pleasant and structuring stimuli. As the hearing system is functional early on, music appeared to be a good candidate. But which music? Luckily, we met the composer Andreas Vollenweider, who had already conducted musical projects with fragile populations and who showed great interest in creating music suitable for premature children," Petra Huppi Lara Lordier, PhD in neurosciences and researcher at the HUG and UNIGE, unfolds the musical creation process. "It was important that these musical stimuli were related to the baby's condition. We wanted to structure the day with pleasant stimuli at appropriate times: a music to accompany their awakening, a music to accompany their falling asleep, and a music to interact during the awakening phases." To choose instruments suitable for these very young patients, Andreas Vollenweider played many kinds of instruments to the babies, in the presence of a nurse specialized in developmental support care. "The instrument that generated the most reactions was the Indian snake charmers' flute (the punji)," recalls Lara Lordier. "Very agitated children calmed down almost instantly, their attention was drawn to the music!" The composer thus wrote three sound environments of eight minutes each, with punji, harp and bells pieces. More efficient brain functional connections through music The study was conducted in a double-blind study, with a group of premature infants who listened to the music, a control group of premature infants, and a control group of full-term newborns to assess whether the brain development of premature infants who had listened to the music would be more similar to that of full-term babies. Scientists used functional MRI at rest on all three groups of children. Without music, premature babies generally had poorer functional connectivity between brain areas than full-term babies, confirming the negative effect of prematurity. "The most affected network is the salience network which detects information and evaluates its relevance at a specific time, and then makes the link with the other brain networks that must act. This network is essential, both for learning and performing cognitive tasks as well as in social relationships or emotional management," says Lara Lordier. In intensive care, children are overwhelmed by stimuli unrelated to their condition: doors open and close, alarms are triggered, etc. Unlike a full-term baby who, in utero, adjusts its rhythm to that of its mother, the premature baby in intensive care can hardly develop the link between the meaning of a stimulus in a specific context. On the other hand, the neural networks of children who heard Andreas Vollenweider's music were significantly improved: the functional connectivity between the salience network and auditory, sensorimotor, frontal, thalamus and precuneus networks,was indeed increased, resulting in brain networks organisation more similar to that of full-term infants. When children grow up The first children enrolled in the project are now 6 years old, at which age cognitive problems begin to be detectable. Scientists will now meet again their young patients to conduct a full cognitive and socio-emotional assessment and observe whether the positive outcomes measured in their first weeks of life have been sustained. Leveraging artificial intelligence techniques, researchers have demonstrated that mutations in so-called 'junk' DNA can cause autism. The study, published May 27 in Nature Genetics, is the first to functionally link such mutations to the neurodevelopmental condition. The research was led by Olga Troyanskaya in collaboration with Robert Darnell. Troyanskaya is deputy director for genomics at the Flatiron Institute's Center for Computational Biology (CCB) in New York City and a professor of computer science at Princeton University. Darnell is the Robert and Harriet Heilbrunn Professor of Cancer Biology at Rockefeller University and an investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Their team used machine learning to analyze the whole genomes of 1,790 individuals with autism and their unaffected parents and siblings. These individuals had no family history of autism, meaning the genetic cause of their condition was probably spontaneous mutations rather than inherited mutations. The analysis predicted the ramifications of genetic mutations in parts of the genome that do not encode proteins, regions often mischaracterized as 'junk' DNA. The number of autism cases linked to the noncoding mutations was comparable to the number of cases linked to protein-coding mutations that disable gene function. The implications of the work extend beyond autism, Troyanskaya says. "This is the first clear demonstration of non-inherited, noncoding mutations causing any complex human disease or disorder." Scientists can apply the same techniques used in the new study to explore the role noncoding mutations play in diseases such as cancer and heart disease, says study co-author Jian Zhou of CCB and Princeton. "This enables a new perspective on the cause of not just autism, but many human diseases." Only 1 to 2 percent of the human genome is made up of genes that encode the blueprints for making proteins. Those proteins carry out tasks throughout our bodies, such as regulating blood sugar levels, fighting infections and sending communications between cells. The other 98 percent of our genome isn't genetic dead weight, though. The noncoding regions help regulate when and where genes make proteins. Mutations in protein-coding regions account for at most 30 percent of autism cases in individuals without a family history of autism. Evidence suggested that autism-causing mutations must happen elsewhere in the genome as well. Uncovering which noncoding mutations may cause autism is tricky. A single individual may have dozens of noncoding mutations, most of which will be unique to the individual. This make the traditional approach of identifying common mutations among affected populations nonviable. Troyanskaya and her colleagues took a new approach. They trained a machine learning model to predict how a given sequence would affect gene expression. This is a shift in thinking about genetic studies that we're introducing with this analysis. In addition to scientists studying shared genetic mutations across large groups of individuals, here we're applying a set of smart, sophisticated tools that tell us what any specific mutation is going to do, even those that are rare or never observed before." Chandra Theesfeld, a research scientist in Troyanskaya's lab at Princeton The researchers studied the genetic basis of autism by applying the machine learning model to a treasure trove of genetic data called the Simons Simplex Collection. The Simons Foundation, the Flatiron Institute's parent organization, produced and maintains the repository. The Simons Simplex Collection contains the whole genomes of nearly 2,000 'quartets' made up of a child with autism, an unaffected sibling and their unaffected parents. These foursomes had no previous family history of autism, meaning that non-inherited mutations were probably responsible for the affected child's condition. (Such mutations occur spontaneously in sperm and egg cells as well as in embryos.) The researchers used their model to predict the impact of non-inherited, noncoding mutations in each child with autism. They then compared those predictions with the effects of the same, unmutated strand in the child's unaffected sibling. "The design of the Simons Simplex Collection is what allowed us to do this study," says Zhou. "The unaffected siblings are a built-in control." Noncoding mutations in many of the children with autism altered gene regulation, the analysis suggested. Moreover, the results suggested that the mutations affected gene expression in the brain and genes already linked to autism, such as those responsible for neuron migration and development. "This is consistent with how autism most likely manifests in the brain," says study co-author Christopher Park, a research scientist at CCB. "It's not just the number of mutations occurring, but what kind of mutations are occurring." The researchers tested the effects of some of the noncoding mutations in laboratory experiments. They inserted predicted high-impact mutations found in children with autism into cells and observed the resulting changes in gene expression. These changes affirmed the model's predictions. Troyanskaya says she and her colleagues will continue improving and expanding their method. Ultimately, she hopes the work will improve how genetic data are used for diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders. Right now, 98 percent of the genome is usually being thrown away. Our work allows you to think about what we can do with the 98 percent." Olga Troyanskaya Source: Simons Foundation Journal reference: Troyanskaya, O. et al. (2019) Whole-genome deep-learning analysis identifies contribution of noncoding mutations to autism risk. Nature Genetics. doi.org/10.1038/s41588-019-0420-0. Licorice tea is a popular herbal tea consumed in large parts of the Western world. While the concentrations of licorice are low in tea, there have been studies showing that consuming large quantities of licorice may cause a rise in blood pressure. Now, a case report of a man admitted with hypertensive emergency after consumption of licorice tea has been reported in the latest issue of the CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal). mirzamlk | Shutterstock Dr. Jean-Pierre Falet, Department of Neurology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, lead author of the study said that the excessive consumption of herbal products is not always safe: Excessive amounts of some herbal products can have harmful side effects. Products containing licorice root extract can raise blood pressure, cause water retention and decrease potassium levels if consumed in excess. The case report is of an 84-year-old man who visited the hospital emergency department with a dramatic high rise of blood pressure called a hypertensive emergency. His condition was precipitated by consuming large amounts of homemade tea made from licorice root. He presented with a sudden high rise of blood pressure (between 180 to 200mm persistently over one week) and was suffering from photosensitivity, headaches, chest pain, tiredness and swelling of his lower limbs and calves due to fluid retention. A chest X ray showed a build-up of fluid around his lungs a condition known as pulmonary edema. The patient was admitted and his pressure was controlled using medication. He confessed to the treating physicians that he had been drinking 1 to 2 glasses of tea made from homemade licorice root extract called erk sous for the past two weeks. Erk sous is very popular in the Middle East and parts of Europe, especially during Ramadan. Dr. Falet explained, Given Canada's multicultural population, physicians should consider screening for licorice root intake in patients with difficult-to-control hypertension. Authors of the study explain that licorice leads to pseudohyperaldosteronism or a rise in the hormone aldosterone in the body. This leads to water and sodium retention in the body that causes a secondary rise in blood pressure. They write that aldosteronism can increase sodium levels, blood pressure, and lower blood potassium, metabolic alkalosis etc. The patient was advised to abstain from erk sous during his stay at the hospital and his blood pressure gradually came down to normal. He was discharged from the hospital after 13 days with a range of other blood pressure lowering medications. Licorice, the root of the plant Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been used for thousands of years for its therapeutic properties and as an essential ingredient to various sweets and beverages, write the authors. They add that to treat hypertension induced by licorice, supportive measures are necessary to reduce the blood pressure until the effects of the licorice wear off. For persons low on potassium, supplements may be necessary initially. Several countries, including the United Kingdom, impose strict rules on product labeling and require a written warning to be printed on products with high concentrations of glycyrrhizin, specifically addressed to patients with hypertension. The US Food and Drug Association considers glycyrrhizin safe, if consumed in moderation, and publishes maximum allowable concentrations for various foods. Health Canada, the regulatory body for food and drugs in Canada, also has an advisory that licorice should not be used if a patient has hypokalemia, high blood pressure, a kidney or cardiovascular disorder, or is taking a medication that might lead to an electrolyte imbalance. Approach licorice sweeteners with caution In a similar study, Jing Li from the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism and colleagues report a case of hypertensive emergency due to glycyrrhizin (the sweet tasting component of licorice). Their study titled, Hypertensive crisis with 2 target organ impairment induced by glycyrrhizin, was published in the March 2018 issue of the journal Medicine (Baltimore). They report the case of a 47-year-old woman, who took 225 mg of glycyrrhizin daily for 3 years due to primary biliary cholangitis. Licorice or Glycyrrhizin Radix is commonly used as a sweetener. In this case it led to a sudden rise in blood pressure to around 230/110 mmHg. The woman was not a known hypertensive and had never had any blood pressure lowering medications. She was given blood pressure lowering medications and her pressure was normalized. After around 6 months since she was asked to stopped glycyrrhizin, her blood pressure normalized completely. Licorice and glycyrrhizin induced hypertension due to pseudo-hyperaldosteronism has been widely reported, yet only 3 cases reported that excessive consumption of licorice could lead to hypertensive emergencies. By presenting this case, we remind clinicians of glycyrrhizin induced hypertension, a condition which could lead to medical emergencies. Jing Li, First Author Sources Hypertensive crisis with 2 target organ impairment induced by glycyrrhizin: A case report. Medicine. (2018). doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000010073. Falet, J-P., Elkrief, A., Green, L. (2019). Hypertensive emergency induced by licorice tea. CMAJ. DOI: doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.180550. Using artificial intelligence, scientists have discovered mutations in parts of non-coding DNA known as Junk DNA that can lead to autism. This is the first study of its kind to connect the dots between autism and the human genome. The study titled, Whole-genome deep-learning analysis identifies contribution of non-coding mutations to autism risk, was published this week in the journal Nature Genetics. Timofeev Vladimir | Shutterstock The research was led by Olga Troyanskaya, deputy director for genomics at the Flatiron Institute's Center for Computational Biology (CCB) in New York City and a professor of computer science at Princeton University. Troyanskaya worked alongside Robert Darnell, a Professor of Cancer Biology at Rockefeller University and an investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. The scientists used artificial intelligence software to scan the genome sequences of 1790 people with autism, along with their siblings and parents who did not have autism. Inherited mutations were excluded from the results. This meant that the genomes of participants with a family history of autism were only picked up on if their DNA contained spontaneous mutations, rather than mutations they could have inherited from their parents. The AI aspect of the study allowed the team to accurately connect the DNA mutations detected to the development of autism in the individuals. This is the first clear demonstration of non-inherited, non-coding mutations causing any complex human disease or disorder. Olga Troyanskaya, Lead Author Study co-author, Jian Zhou, said that there are many other diseases such as cancers and heart disease that could be evaluated using these techniques: This enables a new perspective on the cause of not just autism, but many human diseases. Only around 1 to 2 percent of the genome is made up of genes that encode proteins. These proteins regulate the various functions of cells throughout the body. Much of the remaining non-coding regions serve to regulate gene expression. The scientists noted that some had mutations in the regions that did not code for any proteins while some had mutations in regions with coding functions. Both were similarly associated with autism. Why artificial intelligence? Only around 1 to 2 percent of the genome is made up of genes that code for proteins. The proteins then regulate the various functions all over the body. The rest of the genome works by regulating the coding regions of the genes. When the mutations were seen in the coding regions of the genes, there was a 30 percent association with autism. On the other hand the other cases of autism where there was no positive family history, the connection remained unclear. This prompted them to explore the non-coding regions of the genome to see if there are any connections between the two. The team quickly realized that trying to discover mutations in non-coding DNA is comparable to looking for a needle in a haystack! There are often dozens of mutations in non-coding regions of DNA, and many of these will not cause a person to develop a particular disease. This meant that the scientists needed to look outside the box, as traditional genomics tools would fail to detect the correct mutations. Troyanskaya and her colleagues decided to use artificial intelligence technology to look for sequences that could predict the mutations in the non-coding regions of the genome. This is a shift in thinking about genetic studies that we're introducing with this analysis. In addition to scientists studying shared genetic mutations across large groups of individuals, here we're applying a set of smart, sophisticated tools that tell us what any specific mutation is going to do, even those that are rare or never observed before. Chandra Theesfeld, Co-author The researchers also noted that specific mutations in the non-coding regions could be linked to different IQs of children on the autism spectrum. The machine learning model used data from the Simons Simplex Collection from the Simons Foundation. This collection contains records of the whole genome sequences of nearly 2000 quartets that are associated with autism in a child and are associated with normalcy in siblings and parents. These four factors indicate mutations coming spontaneously in the child with autism with no inheritance. The team calculated the predicted effects of these mutations on the sibling that is unaffected by autism. Zhous explains, The design of the Simons Simplex Collection is what allowed us to do this study. The unaffected siblings are a built-in control. Co-author Christopher Park, a research scientist at CCB in a statement said, . This is consistent with how autism most likely manifests in the brain. It's not just the number of mutations occurring, but what kind of mutations are occurring. The team saw that certain mutations when inserted into cells in the lab altered the way genes were expressed and this predicted the outcome of such mutations by the machine. Troyanskaya added that many diseases could be explored in those 98 percent of non-coding genes saying, . Right now, 98 percent of the genome is usually being thrown away. Our work allows you to think about what we can do with the 98 percent. The authors concluded the study, stating, predictive genomics framework illuminates the role of noncoding mutations in ASD and prioritizes mutations with high impact for further study, and is broadly applicable to complex human diseases. Sources: Simons Foundation Press Release. 27th May 2019. simonsfoundation.org. Zhou, J., et al. (2019). Whole-genome deep-learning analysis identifies contribution of noncoding mutations to autism risk. Nature Genetics. doi.org/10.1038/s41588-019-0420-0. As the staffers at Devils Backbone Brewing Company began planning the brewerys second Music in the Blue Ridge concert series, they decided to give it a slightly different spin. Theres still an entire day packed with music and beer benefiting a good cause, but each of this years events, the first of which is planned for Saturday, has a different theme. Theres so many amazing festivals going on throughout Central Virginia this summer that we wanted to provide something that was going to really excite the local music fans, says Marisa Black, marketing director of Devils Backbone. Saturdays event, called The Commonwealth Collective, will showcase the musical talents of Virginia through a lineup of six regional bands, including headlining duo Illiterate Light, which signed with Atlantic Records just last week. The series continues on July 6 with Weve Got You Covered a lineup entirely of cover bands paying tribute to such wide-ranging acts as Sublime, The Allman Brothers Band and James Brown before finishing out the summer season with R-E-S-P-E-C-T, an event of up-and-coming, female-fronted bands on Aug. 17. Theres a little bit more diversity in the type of music that youre going to be able to see, Black says. In addition to music, each event will feature a pop-up beer tasting featuring products from Devils Backbone and other local craft breweries. There also will be childrens activities organized through Little Planets, a play space creation company based in Charlottesville, as well as a viewing area near the stage so parents can keep an eye on their kids while still enjoying the music, says Black. We really try to make the experience something the whole family can come out to and have a great time, she says. Devils Backbone took more than just its visitors into considerations when organizing Music in the Blue Ridge. Like in 2018, a dollar of every ticket the brewery sells will be donated to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), which works to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail. Last years Music in the Blue Ridge raised $2,043 for the ATC, says Rebecca Holland, communications coordinator for the brewery. This isnt the first time Devils Backbone has worked with the ATC. The Nelson County brewery has been donating a dollar of every case of Trail Angel Weiss beer it sells since 2017. According to a news release announcing the partnership, Devils Backbone is located near Reeds Gap, a major A.T. mile marker, and has been welcoming trail thru-hikers for years. We try to be good stewards of the trail and supporters of the AT being right in its backyard, Black says. On Nov. 16, Randolph College conducted a ceremony highlighting a significant part of local and national history: acknowledging that the land the college sits on historically belonged to the Monacan Indian Nation, the areas indigenous people now based in Amherst County. It is the first college in the area to do so, according to the spearheaders of the ceremony and related history project. World War II Army veteran Andrew Shieles slowly stood and waved to the crowd that had amassed Monday morning at the foot of Monument Terrace. Shieles, who also celebrated his 97th birthday Monday, was the only World War II veteran to attend the annual Memorial Day Observance Ceremony. At least 100 people sat at Monument Terrace for the Memorial Day Observance Ceremony, organized by the Virginia Piedmont Chapter Military Order of the World Wars and the Desmond T. Doss Memorial Post 12179. U.S. Navy veteran Mike Reeves, who served as the master of ceremonies, said from the start, Memorial Day has been a day of reconciliation, of coming together to honor those who gave their all. Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day and was first officially recognized just after the Civil War. Decoration Day, which was first held on May 30, 1868, was to decorate the graves of those who fought in the war. Decoration Day became Memorial Day over the years as it became a day to recognize not just those who fought in the Civil War but in all wars. Once Memorial Day was moved to the last Monday in May, Reeves said unfortunately moving the observance to the end of a three-day weekend has caused many people to lose sight of its meaning. For many, rather than being a day of reverence, its become a day of revelry. Thats why I believe its important to hold commemorations such as this to help people pause and remember, Reeves said. Reeves said those honored Monday were more than numbers in history books, names on a wall or maybe vignettes on the History Channel but people that someone knew. During the ceremony, as Reeves announced different wars U.S. Navy veteran Paul Webb rang a bell twice to honor those who died and veterans who served in those wars stood in recognition. After honoring the fallen, Greg Ritchie performed a reenactment honoring Lynchburgs Private First Class Harry Brooks who died Nov. 11 1918, in France during World War I. I dont know when I got shot. I didnt have no timepiece on me, but I do know when I died because the first time in as long as I could remember I couldnt hear no gun fire. What I did hear was the sound of cheering of the men in the woods around me. As I took my dying breath, the war that had raged for more than four years was over, Ritchie said. Several people at Mondays ceremony said they attended to remember those who have served. Vietnam veteran Clarence Kennon said he remembered signing up to serve in 1970 and served from Oct. 28, 1970 to May 1, 1973. I lost a lot of buddies over there. [I came] in honor of my friends that had fallen, Kennon said. They gave it all and sacrificed. I served, and I didnt get hurt, but I had a lot of friends that did. Reeves wife, Sue, recalled celebrating Memorial Day when she was growing up in the small town of Dalton, Massachusetts. When I was little everything closed on Memorial Day. This is what we did. We honored our veterans. We had a parade. We went to cemeteries. We placed flags. It was a very family, patriotic day Sue Reeves said. Sue Reeves said seeing dozens of veterans and at least 100 people at Mondays ceremony brought tears to her eyes and warms my heart because this shows that the people who are here really care about our veterans, those who are living, those who died in service. Sue Reeves said she had goosebumps knowing Shieles was in attendance. Its just absolutely incredible that he could be here because most of them are gone. There arent that many World War II veterans left, she said. After the ceremony, dozens approached Shieles, who was wearing a vest with several medals, to thank him for his service. Shieles wore a sash with the 15 medals he has received, including the French Medal of Honor. A Greene County supervisor is one of two men charged with felony theft after the commonwealths attorney impaneled a special grand jury to investigate illegal farming. Monroe District Supervisor David Cox, 62, of Stanardsville, and Richard Eppard, 55, also of Stanardsville, turned themselves in to the Virginia State Police on May 24, the day after the grand jury handed down grand larceny indictments against them. They are charged with farming hay on vacant county property for personal gain. Tax maps note the property as 51-A25C near Dairy and Watson roads in Greene County. The 200-acre property is the proposed Ruckersville location for a 900 million-gallon reservoir as part of the Greene County Water Supply and Treatment Project, formerly called White Run Reservoir. Greene County officials indicated they do not believe a theft occurred, but the investigation was initiated by the county Commonwealths Attorney Matt Hardin, who was granted a motion to empanel the grand jury. In March, a state trooper was appointed to investigate the matter. Hardins position is an elected position mandated by the state constitution which makes him independent of the countys Board of Supervisors. Im gratified the grand jury has concluded its investigation, Hardin said. The grand jury found probable cause that two individuals committed grand larceny against the county of Greene. In an email from Greene County Attorney Thomas Lacheney to Hardin, obtained by the Greene County Record through an open records request, Lacheney chastised Hardin for not consulting the county prior to submitting the motion. Lacheney noted the county, as owners of the parcel, would be the victim in this case and noted the county does not feel something of value has been taken from us. Instead, Lacheney suggested in his email that growth on the property was worthless weeds. Bill Martin, chairman of the Board of Supervisors, said he was aware of the charges and that he believes Cox should continue serving on the board until the judicial process has run its course. Mr. Cox is presumed to be innocent and he is legally entitled to the benefits of that presumption, Martin said. Therefore, there is no reason for his service as Greene Countys Monroe District Supervisor to be interrupted or otherwise disturbed by the pendency of such matter. Both Cox and Eppard are expected to appear in Greene County Circuit Court on June 11 at 8:45 a.m. 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 GamesRadar+ is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more https://youtu.be/f8JvxqLAxcw In another sign that the craft beer industry sees the recreational marijuana industry as a threat, Deschutes Brewery is rolling out a major cannabis counter attack called It Comes with The Territory. The new advertising campaign is created by Opinionated creative agency, and smartly positions Deschutes beer as not an enemy of weed, but a great alternative. The ad campaign's message is to remind cannabis craving consumers not to forget about craft beer. More from a press release: The It Comes with The Territory campaign, which features digital films, radio, and out of home advertising, highlights the brewerys iconic place in the region and continues a new marketing approach for Deschutes that began earlier this year with a packaging redesign. This campaign celebrates not only our humor and creativity but our Pacific Northwest roots. Its a way to reaffirm and honor our heritage and ignite our future in craft beer, said Gary Fish, Deschutes Brewerys founder. Deschutes Brewery, a pioneer in the industry, set the standards high for the craft beer movement and thinks of themselves as one of the quintessential beers of the Pacific Northwest. In the video launching the campaign, Deschutes uses symbolic images accompanied by Louie Louie, the classic song recorded by the iconic Oregon band The Kingsmen, to capture the true spirit of its home. The campaign also calls out a growing pressure between craft beer and cannabis. Using a unique creative positioning through video and radio, Deschutes proclaims itself as The beer of choice in the land of recreational cannabis. While the cannabis industry is growing at an unprecedented rate in the Northwest, Deschutes acknowledges its relationship with craft beer, increasingly sharing a consumer with recreational cannabis, a consumer that loves a diversity of experiences. Deschutes is relentlessly innovating, crafting new beers in new styles for every occasion. https://youtu.be/e_hXLoSP4d8 Were drawing attention to the healthy tension between craft beer and cannabis and proving that the two industries, which some may think are competitive can play nice with each other if consumed responsibly, said Deschutes Brewerys VP of Marketing Neal Stewart. Legalized recreational cannabis is a reality that craft brewers are facing in this region. People are going to enjoy recreational cannabis, but we want to remind them that this is still one of, if not the best place on Earth to enjoy a beer and Deschutes helped put the craft brewing industry on the map." In commenting on the creative inspiration for this campaign, Mark Fitzloff, founder and executive creative director of Opinionated said, We felt that for Deschutes to humorously call out the fact that recreational cannabis has become such a part of the region, would be a brave way to assert its insider knowledge and leadership position in the Northwest. Opinionated was appointed Agency of Record for the Deschutes brand in February of 2019 and created the digital films, radio and OOH for the brand. About Deschutes Brewery: Deschutes Brewery, family and employee owned since 1988, is one of the quintessential beers of the Pacific Northwest. Founded on the guiding principles of true craftsmanship, ultimate quality and extraordinary consumer experience, Deschutes Brewery is recognized for defining beers such as Black Butte Porter, Mirror Pond Pale Ale, Fresh Squeezed IPA and the non-stop release of pioneering small batch experimental and barrel-aged beers. Deschutes can be found at its brewpubs in Bend and Portland, Oregon, Tasting Rooms in Bend, and Roanoke, Virginia and at accounts across the country. Visit Deschutes Brewerys beer finder at https://www.deschutesbrewery.com/beer-finder/ to find a Deschutes beer near you. www.deschutesbrewery.com About Opinionated: Founded in 2017, Opinionated is a creatively-led advertising agency founded by former Wieden+Kennedy global executive Mark Fitzloff. The agency offers clients big idea creative platforms and the wisdom and experience that comes from having run the most respected creative agency in the world, delivered in the hyper-responsive packaging of a start-up. Opinionateds first year was marked with considerable growth, adding brands like adidas (Originals North America, Global Soccer, Global Basketball, Running North America, North America Youth Marketing), ABInBev/ZX Ventures (Hoegaarden), allbirds, Deschutes Brewery, Go Fund Me and Yogi Tea, to its client roster. www.Opinionatedgroup.com (Newser) Four Jewish high school students in Boston say they didn't see a man's swastika tattoo before they saved his lifebut they would have rescued him anyway. The students at an Orthodox Yeshiva high school in the Brighton neighborhood spotted the man floating in the Chestnut Hill Reservoir during a late-night walk last week and rushed to flag down a police officer, MassLive reports. Boston College Police Officer Carl Mascioli says that after the students raced to alert him, he pulled the partially submerged, motionless man from the water and discovered he had the Nazi symbol tattooed on his hand. story continues below Mascioli tells NBC Boston that the students told him they had no regrets about saving the man, but they "wanted just to let him know that it was four young Jewish boys that helped save his life." "I kind of let the gentlemen know sometimes some deeds have a funny way of turning around," Mascioli says. "Their good deed had a little bit of a twist to it." He adds: "A good deed is a good deed and that's part of life. We should be helping everybody out." It's not clear how the man ended up in the reservoir, but he is expected to make a full recovery. Police say he would probably have died if the students hadn't spotted him. (These boots were pulled from stores after wearers discovered they were leaving a trail of swastikas.) (Newser) A high school in Bradenton, Florida, is mourning two students who were killed in an accident while visiting Peru to celebrate their recent graduation. Albert Ales and Zachary Morris, both 18, were killed just hours after arriving in the country when a bus hit their motorcycle as they were exploring the city of Cusco, Fox reports. The two Americans died in a hospital hours after the Friday accident, La Republica reports. The bus driver was detained. "Our Southeast Community is heartbroken after hearing the unimaginable news that recent IB graduates Albert Ales and Zachary Morris passed away yesterday in a tragic accident while exploring Peru," Southeast High School tweeted Saturday. story continues below Friends and relatives describe the pair as exceptional students. One was planning to study at Yale; the other at the University of Central Florida. As part of the school's student engineering and entrepreneurship program, they built a machine to make thousands of wooden toys, which were given to the 101st Airborne Division to hand out to children in Afghanistan and elsewhere. "Not only is it a great loss for us, it's a great loss to our country. These young men, they exemplified the best in what our school can produce and what our state can produce. They were the best," engineering teacher Richard Platt tells WFLA. (Read more Peru stories.) (Newser) A government minister in Mexico who pulled strings to delay a flight she was about to miss has apologized and resigned. According to the government of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, environment minister Josefa Gonzalez Blanco asked an Aeromexico exec she knew to delay the flight from Mexico City to Mexicali on Friday, the Guardian reports. Passengers say the flight was delayed for 38 minutes after the pilot announced the aircraft had to return to the terminal "by presidential order" to pick up a late passenger. The minister resigned the next day amid a public outcry. "There was no presidential order to delay the departure of the plane," she admitted. "I am the only one responsible for what happened, the presidency never intervened." story continues below Gonzalez Blanco said her behavior did not live up to the left-wing government's promise of "purifying" public life and governing for poor people. "There is no justification. The true transformation of Mexico requires total alignment with the values of equity and justice," the minister said in a statement, per Reuters. "Nobody should have privileges, and the benefits of one, even in carrying out ones duties, cannot be above the well-being of the majority." The president said in a speech Saturday that Gonzalez Blanco had apologized and he had accepted her resignation. (Read more Mexico stories.) (Newser) If you've always hated black licorice, it's OK to keep hating itbecause too much of it can cause medical issues, as an elderly Canadian has found. Live Science reports on a study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal detailing the case of an 84-year-old man who turned up at the ER after a week of high blood pressure readings at home, as well as headaches, chest pain, and calf swelling. Doctors found his systolic reading to be 200mm HG; a normal reading is 120mm HG, with 180mm HG or above indicating a "hypertensive crisis." The man revealed that, for the past two weeks, he'd been throwing back a glass or two a day of homemade "erk sous," a popular Egyptian licorice tea often served during Ramadan and made from licorice root. The culprit causing the patient's distress: glycyrrhizin, a compound found in licorice root that can cause the body's potassium levels to plummet. story continues below That, in turn, can lead to swelling, heart arrhythmia, and high blood pressure, per the FDA. Although licorice and its derivatives have long been used in Eastern medicineas well as a sweetener in soft drinks and snacksand the FDA has deemed them generally safe if used in moderation, "the traditional belief that licorice is a healthy natural substance without side effects drives its liberal consumption, which can occasionally be hazardous," an unrelated study notes. The FDA notes that although no one should gorge on large amounts of licorice in one sitting, many licorice-flavored products in the US don't actually have licorice in them, flavored instead with anise oil. As for the elderly patient, the study notes he went home almost two weeks later, with back-to-normal blood pressure, after "complete abstinence" from licorice while hospitalized. (A man who ate a lot of Twizzlers sued the Hershey Co.) (Newser) A landmark trial got underway Tuesday in Oklahomathe first big test of whether a state can hold drug manufacturers responsible for the opioid crisis, reports the Wall Street Journal. In opening arguments, Attorney General Mike Hunter said these painkillers have led to the "worst manmade public health crisis" in US history, per the AP. Details and developments, including how the legal definition of a "public nuisance" will be crucial: The players: Oklahoma is going after Johnson & Johnson and subsidiaries in this trial. Previously, Oxycontin maker Purdue Pharma (owned by the Sackler family) agreed to a $270 million settlement with the state to avoid trial; and just this weekend, Teva Pharmaceutical agreed to a settlement of $85 million. That leaves only Johnson & Johnson left in the trial, which will be decided by a judge and not a jury. Oklahoma is going after Johnson & Johnson and subsidiaries in this trial. Previously, Oxycontin maker Purdue Pharma (owned by the Sackler family) agreed to a $270 million settlement with the state to avoid trial; and just this weekend, Teva Pharmaceutical agreed to a settlement of $85 million. That leaves only Johnson & Johnson left in the trial, which will be decided by a judge and not a jury. It's personal: Pew reports that two of the attorneys for Oklahoma know well the dangers of opioids. Michael Burrage lost his niece to an overdose and Reggie Whitten's son was addicted when he died in a motorcycle accident. Whitten's nephew also committed suicide over his addiction. story continues below A key term: The state is arguing that Johnson & Johnson created a "public nuisance" that will cost up to $17.5 billion to fix. The company, though, says the state is improperly using the term, which is more typically raised in property disputes. "This is an interesting twist on the idea of public nuisance," Virginia law professor Carl Tobias tells CNN. The state is arguing that Johnson & Johnson created a "public nuisance" that will cost up to $17.5 billion to fix. The company, though, says the state is improperly using the term, which is more typically raised in property disputes. "This is an interesting twist on the idea of public nuisance," Virginia law professor Carl Tobias tells CNN. Company's view: "The State ignores this well-established law and now argues that public nuisance allows them to compel any party allegedly contributing in any measure to a social problem to fund all programs that state administrators dream up to address it," J&J says in a statement. "This is not and should not be the law." "The State ignores this well-established law and now argues that public nuisance allows them to compel any party allegedly contributing in any measure to a social problem to fund all programs that state administrators dream up to address it," J&J says in a statement. "This is not and should not be the law." The stakes: The reason this trial is being so closely watched is that approximately 2,000 lawsuits have been brought by other states and municipalities against drug companies, and the outcome in Norman, Oklahoma, could set a precedent. If the state wins, Johnson & Johnson might have to pay billions, reports NPR, an outcome that could prompt settlements in the pending cases. The reason this trial is being so closely watched is that approximately 2,000 lawsuits have been brought by other states and municipalities against drug companies, and the outcome in Norman, Oklahoma, could set a precedent. If the state wins, Johnson & Johnson might have to pay billions, reports NPR, an outcome that could prompt settlements in the pending cases. More coming: Barring a settlement, a huge federal trial is scheduled to begin in Ohio in October, and that one will involve Purdue Pharma, notes Politico. Meanwhile, no fewer than 46 states have sued Purdue Pharma, according to Pew. That's why the Oklahoma case looms large. "We'll all be seeing what evidence is available, what evidence isn't available and just how convincing that evidence is," Stanford law professor Nora Freeman Engstrom tells NPR. (Read more opioids stories.) (Newser) A Japanese man returning to his homeland from Colombia with 246 bags of cocaine inside him died en route. Authorities in Mexico say the man, identified as 42-year-old "Udo N," began having a seizure after the Aeromexico flight from Bogota to Tokyo made a stopover in Mexico City, AFP reports. The flight made an emergency landing in Hermosillo, Sonora state, where paramedics boarded the plane and declared the passenger dead, the local coroner's office said in a tweet. story continues below Authorities say the man died of a cerebral edemaswelling of the braincaused by a drug overdose, reports the BBC. The bags of cocaine, measuring around 1 inch by 0.4 inches, were found in his stomach and intestines during the autopsy. Authorities say the flight, with the remaining 198 passengers, departed after the body was removed. (In 2015, authorities found cocaine pellets in the stomach of an Aer Lingus passenger who went berserk and bit another passenger before dying mid-flight.) (Newser) A man carrying a knife in each hand and screaming "I will kill you" attacked schoolgirls waiting at a bus stop just outside Tokyo on Tuesday, wounding 16 people and leaving three dead, including the attacker, Japanese authorities say. NHK national television, quoting police, said that the suspect died after cutting himself in the neck. Police wouldn't immediately confirm the specifics of that report. Most of the victims attended a school founded by Soeurs de la Charite de Quebec, an organization of Catholic nuns in Quebec City in Canada. The victims were lined up at a bus stop near Noborito Park in Kawasaki City when the man attacked, the AP reports. story continues below A witness told the Mainichi newspaper that he heard children shrieking after walking past a bus, and when he turned around, he saw a man wielding a knife in each hand, screaming "I will kill you" and that several children were on the ground. The NHK, citing police, said that a bus driver told officials that a man holding a knife in each hand walked toward the bus and started slashing children. NHK also interviewed a witness who said he saw the suspect trying to force his way onto a bus. The attacker's identity and motives weren't immediately known. Television footage showed emergency workers giving first aid to people inside an orange tent set up on the street, and police and other officials carrying the injured to ambulances. (Read more Japan stories.) (Newser) The Sumatran rhinothe smallest and hairiest of all rhino speciesonce roamed all over Malaysia. Now, just one survives in the country. Tam, a male around 30 years old, has died at a wildlife reserve in Borneo, leaving Iman, a female, as the only member of the critically endangered species left in the country, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reports. Tam, who was captured in 2008, had been suffering from liver and kidney problems. "Our hearts are filled with sadness as we mourn not only the loss of wildlife but the loss of a species," the World Wildlife Fund Malaysia said in a Facebook post. "With Tam gone, we now only have Iman left, our last female rhino." story continues below Malaysia's efforts to breed the rhinos through in vitro fertilization were unsuccessful. There are believed to be only 30 to 80 Sumatran rhinos remaining in the wild in small areas in Sumatra and on the Indonesian part of Borneo, which is split between Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. Authorities say the species, the closing living relative of the extinct woolly rhino, is under severe threat from poaching and habitat loss. Maszlee Malik, the Malaysia's education minister, said Tam's death should be a wake-up call for the country, Al Jazeera reports. " We need to protect the wildlife, the endangered species," he said. "To love is to educate." (Read more Sumatran rhino stories.) (Newser) The final morning of President Trump's visit to Japan was overshadowed by a horrific attack on schoolchildren near Tokyo. The president offered his condolences during a Tuesday morning appearance with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the AP reports. "I want to take a moment to send our prayers and sympathy to the victims of the stabbing attack this morning in Tokyo," the president said. "All Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and their families." Abe said he was outraged by the attack, in which at least three people were killed, including the knife-wielding attacker, and 16 injured. "It was an extremely harrowing incident in which many small children were victimized, and I feel strong resentment," he said. story continues below Police say an 11-year-old girl and 39-year-old foreign ministry official Satoshi Oyama, believed to be the father of another child, were killed in the attack, the BBC reports. Police have not released the name of the suspect, a man in his 50s who stabbed himself in the neck after attacking a group of schoolgirls waiting for a bus in Kawasaki. Witnesses say the man shouted "I will kill you!" as he stabbed the children. The driver of the bus told NHK that the man stabbed the children in the queue before boarding the bus and attacking more students inside. The injured people include 13 girls between the ages of six and 12, the Guardian reports. Police have not disclosed a possible motive for the attack. (Read more Japan stories.) (Newser) Meghan McCain was not a fan of Amy Klobuchar's anecdote about John McCain reciting names of dictators during President Trump's inauguration speech. "On behalf of the entire McCain family - @amyklobuchar please be respectful to all of us and leave my fathers legacy and memory out of presidential politics," The View host tweeted Monday. Klobucharwho discussed her late colleague in front of a crowd of 200 in Des Moines, Iowa, on Saturdaydid not respond to a request for comment, per USA Today. However, a campaign spokesman said the Democratic presidential candidate "was simply sharing a memory" and has a "deep respect" for McCain's family considering her "long-term friendship" with the Arizona senator, Fox News quotes from a statement. story continues below During her talk in Iowa, the Minnesota senator recalled sitting next to John McCain at the inauguration. John McCain kept reciting to me names of dictators during that speech because he knew more than any of us what we were facing as a nation. He understood it, she said, per NBC News. He knew because he knew this man more than any of us did. Klobuchar viewed John McCain as a mentor and has defended him from Trump's frequent jibes, notes the Washington Post. (The president's criticism of John McCain has continued after his death.) (Newser) Health workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo continue to struggle to effectively combat the deadly virus that's currently raging in an "out of control" outbreak: On Saturday, villagers killed a health worker, AFP reports, citing the daily health ministry bulletin dated Sunday. "Part of the population of Vusahiro village, in the health sector of Mabalako (North Kivu province), rose up and attacked the local team fighting back against Ebola," the official report reads. In addition to the worker who died, "the health center in Vusahiro was trashed and looted and three village houses were burned down." Another triage center was vandalized overnight in a separate incident over the weekend. The outbreak is the second-deadliest in history, having killed more than 1,200 so far, according to a Doctors Without Borders report from last week. story continues below Both militia attacks on health centers, as well as local hostility, have led to four health workers being killed in the DR since the outbreak began. Dozens more, both workers and patients, have been wounded. As PBS explained in a report earlier this month, there's a "deep distrust of government" in the region. "Clearly, this is an area of historic opposition to central government, and it's an area where the rumor mill about Ebola and how it's being spread is going in precisely the wrong direction," says David Miliband of the International Rescue Committee. International aid organizations are working to fight the spread of misinformation to villagers, but "10 months into the disease, the trust gap has got worse, not better," he says. "The level of violence has got worse, not better." (Because of that, experts say this outbreak could end up rivaling the worst-ever.) (Newser) "I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal," President Trump said Monday about possible talks concerning its nuclear program, "and I think thats very smart of them, and I think thats a possibility to happen." He received his answer on Tuesday. "We currently see no prospect of negotiations with America," a Foreign Ministry spokesman said, per Reuters. Trump had said the US isn't seeking a regime change in Iran, just "no nuclear weapons." Iran answered that, as well; Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri said the development of a nuclear weapon has been prohibited by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. story continues below A Revolutionary Guard spokesman addressed the growing tension between the two nations by saying the guard doesn't fear war with the US. The US has not become more formidable, he said, while Iran's military has. "The enemy is not more powerful than before," Gen. Ramazan Sharif said, per PBS. The tension has increased since Trump pulled the US out of the 2015 nuclear deal that limited Irans uranium enrichment activities in return for the removal of sanctions. Iran's economy has suffered since the US reinstated the sanctions. The US recently deployed an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Persian Gulf, citing a threat from Iran, and announced plans to send more troops to the Middle East. (Trump issued a warning to Iran.) (Newser) Facebook executives Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg could be held in contempt of the Canadian parliament after refusing subpoenas to appear at a Tuesday hearing, reports CNN. A Facebook rep said the company planned to send its head of public policy for Facebook Canada, Kevin Chan, and director of public policy, Neil Potts, in place of Zuckerberg and Sandberg, who received formal requests to appear in front of an international committee looking at Silicon Valley's role in privacy and democracy. Not good enough, says member of parliament Bob Zimmer. story continues below "Any change on the platform is done through Mr. Zuckerberg or through Ms. Sandberg," he says. "Nobody is going to come with some handcuffs and arrest them, but to be held in contempt by an entire country would not serve any platform well." A contempt finding is mostly symbolic as well as "a rare move in Canada," per the CBC. Lawmakers from at least 10 countries will take part in the meeting in Ottawa, hosted by the House of Commons' privacy and ethics committee. (Zuckerberg, who testified before the US Congress, also refused to speak to the UK parliament.) (Newser) For the second time in less than a week, a House Republican has prevented a $19.1 billion federal disaster aid package from passing Congress. That makes it more likely that the measure won't be approved until the House returns from recess next Monday, the Hill reports. When the bill came up for unanimous consent Tuesday, Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky objected, saying Speaker Nancy Pelosi "should have called a vote on this bill before sending every member of Congress on recess for 10 days." Rep. Chip Roy of Texas blocked passage on Friday, objecting to the cost and the lack of funding requested by the Trump administration to cope with migrants at the Mexico border. story continues below Members of both parties criticized Massie, as they had Roy; the measure has the support of Democrats and GOP leaders. "I cannot understand why any member would object to giving relief to so many millions of our citizens who have been badly damaged by natural disasters," Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said, per Politico. Sen. David Perdue, a Georgia Republican, tweeted, "It's pathetic that some members have chosen this moment to grandstand & get into the national headlines." Another pro forma House session is scheduled for Thursday, but Republicans have said they intend to keep preventing the disaster aid from passing. The bill passed the Senate, and President Trump has said he'll sign it. (Roy said the bill should receive a full debate and a regular vote.) (Newser) The pugilistic and embattled attorney Michael Avenatti pleaded not guilty Tuesday to defrauding his most famous client, porn star Stormy Daniels, and seized the spotlight to toss a barb at President Trump, the AP reports. Avenatti barely spoke during his 10-minute appearance before a federal judge in New York, except to answer a few brief procedural questions. His lawyer entered the plea on his behalf on charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Avenatti was indicted last week on charges that he cheated Daniels out of $300,000 she was owed for her book, Full Disclosure, which was published in October. Bail was set at $300,000. Avenatti, who surrendered to federal authorities in the early morning, agreed to have no contact with Daniels while the case is pending. story continues below Later, Avenatti was asked by reporters to comment as he walked to courthouse elevators. "Anybody know when the president and Don Jr. are going to be arraigned?" he quipped. It was the continuation of a feud he has carried on with the president and his son during television appearances and through social media. Avenatti also faces charges in California of stealing millions of dollars from clients, including much of the $4 million owed to a paralyzed man, dodging taxes, defrauding banks, and lying during bankruptcy proceedings. And in a third case, he's charged in New York with attempting to extort millions of dollars from Nike. After a court appearance in the Nike case Tuesday after entering his plea in the Daniels case, Avenatti told reporters outside the courthouse that he's facing the fight of his life "against the ultimate goliath, the Trump administration." (Read more Michael Avenatti stories.) Sorry! This content is not available in your region New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sent nearly 65 lakh messages to the people in eastern and southern India to give them updates about Cyclone Fani that hit the Odisha coast earlier this month, a report said. According to the report, which was sent to the Union government, the IMD sent over 59 lakh messages to the farmers of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry, advising them to take precautionary measures. Nearly half of the 59,37,365 messages were sent to the farmers of Odisha that saw the maximum destruction due to Fani. Some of the messages, which were also sent in local languages, read: Keep the animals and poultry birds in safe places. Postpone harvesting and keep the harvested produce if any in safe place. too. Multiples messages were sent to the farmers of these states from April 26-May 3 when the cyclone struck the Odisha coast, bringing large-scale destruction, flattening standing crops in the state and killing over 60 people. More than 40 lakh farmers have registered themselves for the IMDs Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa project, in which they are sent crucial weather-related messages that can help them to deal with emergencies. Moreover, over four lakh SMS were also sent to the public by the IMD. As many as 2,140 messages were sent to disaster managers of different states by the IMD. The national weather agencys cyclone warning centres in Kolkata, Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam also sent over 33,500 messages to different stakeholders. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services also sent messages to fishermen to alert them about the storm. The IMD won praise from different quarters for its accurate prediction of the very severe cyclonic storm and its landfall site. Dissemination of information to different stakeholders also played a critical role in carrying out massive evacuation exercise that saved several lives. Originating in the east Indian Ocean and southeast Bay of Bengal as a depression, Fani covered a track of 3,030 kilometres, one of the longest trajectories, the IMD said. New Delhi: One of the three doctors accused of abetting the suicide of 26-year-old Payal Tadvi, a junior at a state-run hospital in Mumbai, by tormenting her with castiest slurs has been arrested, according to news agency PTI. The Agripada police arrested Bhakti Mehere after initial interrogation, a police official said. Mehere was one of the three senior doctors against whom an offence was registered after 26-year-old Payal Tadvi committed suicide on May 22, police said. The two other accused doctors - Ankita Khandelwal and Hema Ahuja - have moved an anticipatory bail application before the session court here, the official said. Meanwhile, Payal's parents protested at the state-run hospital in Mumbai where she worked. Other protesters also joined Tadvi's mother Abeda and husband Salman, demanding stringent action against the three seniors who allegedly drove her to end her life by "torturing her by ragging and hurling casteist abuses at her." Protesters belonging to the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi and other Scheduled Caste and tribal organisations held protests outside the BYL Nair Hospital here over Tadvi's death. Abeda said will the government take responsibility for safety of students like her daughter, who are pursuing higher education. She said Payal would have been the first woman MD doctor from their community. "Payal used to tell me about the torture which she was facing by her seniors on petty issues. They threw files on her face in front of patients," she said. "Payal used to tell me not to give a written complaint against her seniors despite being harassed by them. She would say that doing so would advesrely impact their career," Abeda said. Salman, a doctor, said it is possible that Payal was murdered by the three women doctors. Expressing solidarity with the protesters and with Tadvis family, Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad said he would visit Maharashtra if needed to "fight for justice for our younger sister. The Maharashtra State Commission for Women has also taken cognisance of the matter and issued a notice to the hospital authorities demanding a reply within eight days on the action taken to implement the anti-ragging law. The three women doctors at the hospital accused of driving Tadvi to suicide Monday sought a "fair probe" in the case. In a letter to the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD), they said they want the college to conduct a fair investigation in the matter and "give justice" to them. "This is not the way to do an investigation through police force and media pressure, without hearing our side," the three doctors said in the letter. MARD has suspended the three doctors. We have credible inputs that the three doctors made casteist remarks against Dr Payal Tadvi, who allegedly committed suicide. We will cooperate with the police for the further investigation, a senior MARD official said. Tadvi committed suicide on May 22. Her family has alleged that the doctors taunted her for belonging to a Scheduled Tribe. The three doctors have been booked under the Atrocities Act, the Anti-Ragging Act and the IT Act and Section 306 (abetment to suicide) of the IPC. For all the Latest Crime News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has declared the Maharashtra Board Class 12 or HSC examination result today. The results will be published online at 1 pm today. Once the results are officially announced, students can get access to their scorecards by visiting the official website of the board i.e. mahresult.nic.in. Keeping in mind the convenience of the students, News Nation will be providing a direct link below to download the MSBSHSE HSC result 2019. LIVE UPDATES: 01.01 pm: The Maharashtra Board Class 12 results are now available for download on the official website. 12.42: The Maharashtra Board 12th Result will be published online soon. 11.48 am: Over 14 lakh students appeared for the HSC examinations this year. Of which, over 12 lakh students cleared the exam. 11.34 am: To pass the exam, candidates need to score aggregate 35 per cent marks in addition to scoring a minimum of 20 per cent marks in theory exam. 11.26 am: The results will be available at the websites at 1 pm. 11.25 am: Maharashtra Board has declared Class 12 Result. The total pass percentage is 85.88. 11.04 am: The Maharashtra Board Class 12 Results will be announced at 1 pm today. 10.49 am: Here are the websites thorugh which students can check and download their scorecards: mahresult.nic.in hscresult.mkcl.org english.newsnationtv.com/board-results 10.27 am: A total of 14,91,306 (14.19 lakh) students registered for the Maharashtra HSC examination, out of which 8,42,919 were boys and 6,48,151 girls. 09.47 am: This year Maharashtra HSC exams were held between February 21 and March 20 at various examination centres across the state. Heres how to check Maharashtra Board Class 12 Result 2019: Step 1: Click on english.newsnationtv.com/board-results or scroll to the top of the page Step 2: Enter required credentials in the allocated space Step 3: Verify and click on the 'submit' button Step 3: Finally, view and download MSBSHSE HSC or Class 12 Result 2019 Step 4: Take a print out of the same for future reference About Maharashtra State Board of Secondary & Higher Secondary Education: The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary & Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE), Pune was founded in the year 1965 under the Maharashtra Act No. 41 of 1965. The jurisdiction of the board extends over the nine divisional boards located at Pune, Mumbai, Aurangabad, Nasik, Kolhapur, Amravati, Latur, Nagpur and Ratnagiri. Almost 30 lakh plus students participate in the bi-Yearly examination conducted by The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary & Higher Secondary Education, Pune at HSC and SSC level every year. New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and AAP national convener will attend the swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi as Prime Minister on Thursday. The chief minister has been invited for the ceremony and he will attend it, a Delhi government official confirmed. The ruling AAP in Delhi and the BJP were involved in a bitter war of words with both sides attacking each other in a no holds barred contest. Delhi Congress president and three-time former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit said she has not received any invitation for Modi's swearing-in ceremony. The BJP won all the seven seats in Delhi routing both the Congress and the AAP in the Lok Sabha polls. The development came hours after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she will attend the oath-taking ceremony. I have spoken to other chief ministers also. Since it is a ceremonial programme, we thought of attending it. Yes, I will go, said Banerjee. An Indian government statement on Monday said the leaders of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan - all members, with India, of the little-known Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) - have been invited to Modi's swearing-in. "This is in line with Government's focus on its 'Neighbourhood First' policy," a government spokesman said.The leaders of Kyrgyzstan and Mauritius have also been invited, but two sources in Indian's foreign ministry said Pakistan will not be on the list, without providing further information. For the swearing-in ceremony for Modi's first term in 2014, all nations from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), that includes Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Maldives, were invited.In 2014 Pakistan's then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attended the ceremony. India, however, will not invite Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to Thursday's swearing-in ceremony. In 2014 Pakistan's then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attended the ceremony. Modi and Khan both claimed their air forces carried out air strikes in enemy territory in March, to the alarm of world powers. Modi, who was widely believed to have benefited politically from the stand-off, won a second term with an increased majority in a general election whose results were declared last week. Khan called Modi on Sunday to congratulate him on his win. Modi could still meet Khan at a Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan next month, that both leaders may attend. (With PTI inputs) New Delhi: Two Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLAs and one CPM lawmaker and more than 50 councillors from West Bengal joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the party headquarters in New Delhi on Tuesday. "Like the elections were held in seven phases in West Bengal, joinings in the BJP will also happen in seven phases. Today was just the first phase," Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP National General Secretary, said at a press conference where the lawmakers joined the BJP.A Suspended TMC MLA Subhrangshu Roy was among MLAs who joined the BJP. On May 24, the Trinamool Congress suspended Roy for six years for anti-party comments. The other MLAs are Tusharkanti Bhattacharjee from the TMC andA Devendra Roy from the CPM. Subhrangshu, the TMC legislator from Bijpur, is the son of BJP leader Mukul Roy. Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP National General Secretary on 3 MLAs and more than 50 Councillors from WB joining BJP: Like the elections were held in seven phases in West Bengal, joinings in BJP will also happen in seven phases. Today was just the first phase. pic.twitter.com/YbYEYK2KwU a ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 "Now, I will breath freely. Many in the TMC feel suffocated," he has earlier said, claiming that several others from the party will "follow his footsteps". "My father has advised me to be careful, as I may be implicated in a false criminal case, or may be attacked... I will join the BJP within two to three days," Subhrangshu said. Subhrangshu also said he did not get due respect in the TMC. Mukul Roy, once considered to be the second-in-command of the Trinamool Congress, joined the BJP in November 2017 after a fallout with party supremo Mamata Banerjee. He is being credited for the stellar show of the BJP in Bengal in the just-concluded Lok Sabha elections. (With PTI inputs) New Delhi: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she will attend Narendra Modi's oath-taking ceremony as Prime Minister on May 30. I have spoken to other chief ministers also. Since it is a ceremonial programme, we thought of attending it. Yes I will go, said Banerjee. An Indian government statement on Monday said the leaders of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan - all members, with India, of the little-known Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) - have been invited to Modi's swearing-in. "This is in line with Government's focus on its 'Neighbourhood First' policy," a government spokesman said.The leaders of Kyrgyzstan and Mauritius have also been invited, but two sources in Indian's foreign ministry said Pakistan will not be on the list, without providing further information. For the swearing-in ceremony for Modi's first term in 2014, all nations from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), that includes Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Maldives, were invited.In 2014 Pakistan's then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attended the ceremony. India, however, will not invite Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to Thursday's swearing-in ceremony. In 2014 Pakistan's then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attended the ceremony. Modi and Khan both claimed their air forces carried out air strikes in enemy territory in March, to the alarm of world powers. Modi, who was widely believed to have benefited politically from the stand-off, won a second term with an increased majority in a general election whose results were declared last week. Khan called Modi on Sunday to congratulate him on his win. Modi could still meet Khan at a Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan next month, that both leaders may attend. (With PTI inputs) Mumbai: Television actor Karan Oberoi, arrested on charges of raping and blackmailing a woman, has approached the Bombay High Court for bail after a sessions court rejected his plea for the relief earlier this month. The lower court had rejected Oberoi's plea noting that investigation into the case was incomplete, and hence it would be incorrect to release the accused on bail. In his petition filed in the HC Monday through advocate Dinesh Tiwari, Oberoi claimed he was falsely implicated in the case, and that it was a consensual relationship between him and the woman. The 40-year-old, who has acted in television serials and appeared in commercials, was arrested earlier this month after the woman, who was in a relationship with him since 2016, lodged a complaint with Oshiwara police alleging that Oberoi had raped her on the pretext of marriage. She also alleged that Oberoi shot some objectionable videos of her and demanded money while threatening to release these clips. The HC is likely to take up Oberoi's petition for hearing next week. For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New DelhiRadhika Apteas Padman was a super hit f: Radhika Apteas Padman was a super hit film of 2019 and it had garnered immense appreciation for the concept of the film, from across the segment of the population. The film had made a huge impact on the society to normalize the stigma around menstruation. In the past few years, conversations around menstrual hygiene have picked up across the country. What people earlier considered to be a topic relevant to be discussed in the company of only women has now rightly emerged as a topic worth discussing in general purview, regardless of gender and as a topic that demands the attention of the entire country. Part of it has to do with Radhika Apteas film Padman making an impact on the society, at large. On the account of the Menstrual Hygiene Day, Radhika Apte who essayed the character of the wife and support system of Lakshmi Prasad took to her social media and shared a still from the film and wished women, aHappy menstrual hygiene day!! #28thmay #menstrualhygienedaya. With an omnipresence across our screens, Indie queen Radhika Pate is not just creating an impact on screen with her choice of promising projects but also, off-screen with her sartorial choices!A Radhika Apte who pulls off her roles aptly is on the wish list of every director and a top choice of every filmmaker because of her talent of bringing authenticity and conviction in her characterization. The indie star, who looks for a good story has landed herself in the best space for her career. Radhikaas two movies Andhadhun and Padman are on the top rated Bollywood movies list and her aomnipresencea is much talked about with the screen presence she possesses. Radhika Apte will be next seen in a film alongside Nawazuddin Siddiqui for which the actress has already finished the first schedule shoot in Lucknow, The pair was last seen sharing screen space for a web series. For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: 12 people were killed and five other injured after two cars collided on Balesar-Jodhpur road in Rajasthan on Tuesday. The accident took place in early morning hours. Police have reached the spot. The injured have been taken to nearby MDM hospital. The impact of the crash was so severe that the cars crushed completely. The mangled remains were removed so that the traffic could be resumed on the busy route. Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot took to Twitter and expressed his anguish over the accident. A Deeply anguished by the loss of lives in a severe road accident near Agolai village on Balesar-#Jodhpur road. My heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost dear ones, may God give them strength to bear this loss. May the injured recover soon..#Rajasthan a Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) May 28, 2019 aDeeply anguished by the loss of lives in a severe road accident near Agolai village on Balesar-#Jodhpur road. My heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost dear ones, may God give them strength to bear this loss. May the injured recover soon (sic),a Gehlot said ina tweet. Jodhpur District Magistrate has ordered a probe into the incident. The Rajasthan government has announced compensation of Rs 1 lakh each to the family of the deceased. A World Health Organization report has said that road accidents are among the leading cause of death group worldwide. More than 1.35 million lives are lost each year and 50 million sustaining injuries in road accident around the globe. According to a 2017 Government of India report, a total of 464,910 road accidents were reported in the country, claiming 147,913 lives and causing injuries to 470,975 persons, which translates into 405 deaths and 1,290 injuries each day from 1,274 accidents. This also means 16 killed and another 53 injured every hour on Indian roads. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: A day after meeting Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat Nitin Patel, former Congressman and Gujarat OBC leader Alpesh Thakor on Tuesday made the explosive claim that more than 15 MLAs are leaving the Congress. Thakor, the MLA from Radhanpur in Patan district, had quit the Congress before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Speaking to news agency ANI, Thakor said, My people are poor and backward. They need the support of the government. I was disturbed that I couldn't give that to my people what I had intended to. My organisation voiced their opinion that we need not be there where we don't have respect and there's no talk of their rights. He also said that it was our decision and the voice of my conscience that we don't want to be here. We want to work for our people and the poor with help of the govt... Wait and watch, more than 15 MLAs are leaving Congress, everyone is distressed. More than half of the MLAs are upset. Thakor met Patel at his Gandhinagar office for about half an hour, BJP sources said. The OBC leader's associate and Congress MLA from Bayad Dhavalsinh Zala was also present at the meeting, they said. However, what transpired in the meeting was not known as both Thakor and Zala could not be contacted despite repeated attempts. The BJP appeared reluctant to provide details and speculate on the OBC leader's future course of action. "There is no such development with regards to Alpesh Thakor (on joining the BJP) The meeting might be for some other reason as he is an MLA," state BJP spokesperson Bharat Pandya said. However, speculation is rife among sections in both the Congress and the BJP here that he may be headed towards the saffron camp. The Congress chose former MP Jagdish Thakor over him from Patan. The Congress had also ignored Thakor's demand for ticket to a member of his outfit, the Thakor Sena, from the Banaskantha Lok Sabha seat. After emerging as a prominent OBC leader in Gujarat, he had joined the opposition party before the 2017 state polls and won from the Radhanpur Assembly seat. Before quitting the Congress, he had met party president Rahul Gandhi and conveyed his displeasure against the functioning of the state leadership. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: An army officer, identified as Major Rahul Singh of Rashtriya Rifles, on Tuesday succumbed to the acute chest pain while undergoing medical treatment in a nearby hospital. As per the media reports, Singh, who was deployed along the Line of Control (LoC), complained of severe chest pain during patrolling in Machil sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district. Speaking to news agency PTI, an army official said, "Maj Rahul Singh of Rashtriya Rifles, deployed along Line of Control, succumbed to the acute chest pain while undergoing medical treatment". "The officer had complained of severe chest pain during patrolling along the LoC in Machil Sector in Kupwara district in the afternoo," he added. All ranks of the Chinar Corps Commander has saluted the supreme sacrifice of Singh in line of duty and offered condolences to his bereaved family. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP from Begusarai, Giriraj Singh on Tuesday said population control laws are necessary for the development of the country. Standing by Yoga guru Baba Ramdev, he said that his statement on population control should be seen in a positive light. Ramdev on Sunday opined that India is not ready to deal with its population explosion and suggested some measures like denying voting rights and other government services to the third or higher children. Addressing a press conference Haridwar, he said the countrys population should not be allowed to go beyond 150 crore. This is only possible if we enact a legislation denying voting right to the third or higher children of a parent. Such children should also be denied right to contest elections and other government services, he had suggested. Indias population should not be more than 150 crores in the next 50 years as we are not prepared or ready to bear more than that. This is only possible when the government makes a law that third child would not be allowed to vote, neither contest election nor he/she enjoys any type of privileges and facilities given by the government, Ramdev had said. AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday took a dig at Ramdev and said, There is no law preventing people from saying downright unconstitutional things, but why do Ramdevs ideas receive undue attention?. Criticising Ramdev over his Yoga poses, he further wrote, That he can do a thing with his stomach or move about his legs shouldnt mean Narendra Modi lose his right to vote just because hes the 3rd kid. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Two terrorists were killed in encounter that broke out on Tuesday in Kokernag area of Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag district. This came after security forces launched a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in Kachwan area. A joint team of forces comprising armys 9RR, 164 BN of CRPF and SOG of Jammu and Kashmir Police cordoned off the area. Earlier, Zakir Musa, the chief of Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, a group allegedly affiliated with Al-Qaeda was killed in an encounter with security forces in a village in Tral of South Kashmir, officials said. One AK-47 rifle and a rocket launcher was recovered from the site of encounter. Zakir Musa was an Ansar Ghazwat-ul Hind chief and a A++ terrorist. Zakir Musa, a close associate of Burhan Wani who was killed in 2017, was a militant of Hizbul Mujahideen who succeeded Burhan and later headed the Al Qaeda affiliate. He had taken to militancy in 2013. In 2012 he left for Chandigarh to study engineering at Ram Dev Jindal college but left it midway to join militancy. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: No decision has been taken on a possible meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan next month on the sidelines of a summit in Bishkek, official sources said on Tuesday. Modi is attending the annual summit of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in the Kyrgyz capital on June 13-14 where Khan is also expected to be present. "A decision on the issue will be taken by the new government," said a government source, without completely ruling out the possibility of a meeting between Modi and Khan. There has not been any meeting between the two leaders since Khan took over as prime minister of Pakistan in August last year. Another source termed as "entirely speculative" reports in some section of the media that the two prime ministers are meeting in Bishkek. India has not been engaging with Pakistan following the attack on the Air Force base at Pathankot in January of 2016, maintaining that talks and terror cannot go together. The government's decision to invite leaders of the BIMSTEC countries for the swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi as prime minister for a second term on May 30 also reflected India's reluctance to engage with Pakistan even as the external affairs ministry said the invitations were "in line with government's focus on its 'Neighbourhood First' policy." Besides India, BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan. In 2014, Modi had invited all SAARC leaders including the then Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for his swearing-in ceremony, in a major initiative to reach out to the neighbouring countries. Sharif's attendance at the swearing-in ceremony had triggered hopes of better Indo-Pak ties. The two leaders also met several times, including Modi's famous Lahore trip in 2015. However, after 2016 terror attack, the ties nosedived again. In a carefully crafted move, the government has this time decided to invite BIMSTEC leaders apart from Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov, who is the current SCO chair, and Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth for the swearing-in ceremony. On Sunday, Khan called up Modi to congratulate him on his re-election. It was their first telephonic conversation after the Balakot airstrikes. During the conversation, the MEA said, Modi told Khan that creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism was essential for fostering peace and prosperity in the region. Recalling his initiatives in line with his government's 'neighbourhood first' policy, Modi referred to his earlier suggestion to Khan to fight poverty jointly, the MEA said. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel Monday claimed Hindu Mahasabha leader Vinayak Damodar Savarkar had first sown the seed of the two-nation theory which was later taken forward by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the late founder of Pakistan. "Vinayak Damodar Savarkar had first thought of the two-nation theory. His theory was taken forward by Muhammad Ali Jinnah," Baghel was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. He was addressing Congress workers on former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's death anniversary in Raipur. The Congress leader claimed efforts are being made to change Jawaharlal Nehru's idea of India and said the first Prime Minister started nuclear and space programmes and oversaw building of world-class institutions. "Savarkar, who was a leader of the Hindu Mahasabha, had sown the seed of division of the country which was later implemented by Muhammad Ali Jinnah," he said. Later, talking to reporters on the sidelines of the programme, Baghel said, "It is a historical fact that in Hindu Mahasabha, Vinayak Dmoadar Savarkar had proposed that Hindustan should be independent as two nations. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: All he wanted was his girlfriend to crack the MBA exam. But instead of helping her in studies or any other conventional way, he had some other ideas. The small-time BSP leader, with some considerable clout, decided to get the paper leaked! The plan, the paper, the process was in place. But in the end, Feroz Alams luck ran out and was arrested. Now, his girlfriend is absconding. The incident took place in Uttar Pradeshs Aligarh, where Alam tried to get the prestigious Aligarh Muslim Universitys MBA entrance paper leaked. However, the plan didnt work out and the Aligarh Police raided the flat, where Alam along with two of his associates had hatched the conspiracy. An IANS report said that Alams SUV bore he name plate BSP coordinator Patiyali and always moved with bunch of bouncer-like mean. The BSP leader got in touch with one Irshad, who was an AMU employee. Alam promised him a permanent job in lieu of the question paper. With another friend Haider, whose flat was used to hatch the conspiracy, Alam asked AMU staff to get the paper leaked. Irshad, who was employed by the AMU to serve water to students during exams, got hold of an unused question paper. The Times of India report said that Alam and Haider got some solvers to the flat to get the answers, which were subsequently Whatsapped to five students including Alams girlfriend. However, Irshad couldnt place the unused question paper back in the lot. The AMU officials realised the paper leak and cancelled the examination. Soon, police teams were formed to nab the culprits. All accused including Alam, Irshad and Haider have been arrested. Interestingly, the flat belonged to Haiders uncle Tehseem Siddiqui who is said to be close to Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav. Police have registered an FIR against five persons, Tariq Khan, Mohd Irshad, Firoz Alam, Haider, and Akram under sections 3/4/5/6/7/9/10 of Uttar Pradesh Public Examinations Act, 1998 and sections 420 (cheating), 406 (committing criminal breach of trust), and 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code on the basis of complaint filed by Prof Iffat Asgar from the AMU. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Actor-turned-politicians Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan, who were among the prominent candidates to win the Lok Sabha polls for the first time in 2019, on Monday faced vicious trolling on social media after they posed for photographs in front of the Parliament building of India. Twitterati vent ire over their choice of clothing as they took to their respective Instagram handles, sharing pictures from their first day at Parliament. Taking to photo-blogging site Instagram, Chakraborty wrote, "Remember your dreams and fight for them Y #gratitude #Obliged", while posting a photograph of herself donning a white t-shirt along with a blue denim jeans. Minutes after, Chakraborty shared another photograph on Twitter tagging Jahan, where the young parliamentarians can be seen displaying their identity cards as MPs at the Parliament premises. "And it's us again. First day at Parliament Nusrat Jahan," the tweet read. And its us again 1st day at Parliament @nusratchirps pic.twitter.com/ohBalZTJCV a Mimssi (@mimichakraborty) May 27, 2019 Nusrat captioned her picture as, "A new beginning...!! I thank @mamataofficial and people of my Basirhat constituency to have belief in me", following which she also faced similar wrath for breaking the preconceived notion of how female parliamentarian should dress up. While one of the Twitterati ridiculed the actresses for turning Parliament premises to their film sets, another asked if they have gone there to do this drama. "This is not a place for photoshoot. This is a place where you should fight for the people's rights and legislate for the country. You don't belong here," one user wrote in Bengali. However, some section of the social media also came out in their support and was of the opinion that there is nothing bad in taking photographs outside Parliament and that the duo is being trolled for no reason. Former Congress leader and newly-elected Shiv Sena member Priyanka Chaturvedi also congratuled the new MPs, adding that she loved what both of them were wearing "in tune with the changing times". "Dear @mimichakraborty and @nusratchirps , firstly many congratulations for your debut in the parliament and secondly I loved what you both are wearing, in tune with the changing times," Chaturvedi tweeted. Dear @mimichakraborty and @nusratchirps , firstly many congratulations for your debut in the parliament and secondly I loved what you both are wearing, in tune with the changing times :) Keep rocking! pic.twitter.com/hMFqGGnQr1 a Priyanka Chaturvedi (@priyankac19) May 28, 2019 For those unserved, Mimi Chakraborty, the Jadavpur candidate of the Trinamool Congress, defeated BJP's Anupam Hazra by a margin of 2,95,239 votes in this Lok Sabha eletions. The actor-turned politician bagged 6,88,472 votes, while Hazra managed 3,93,233 votes. Jahan left her BJP rival Sayantan Basu behind by 3,50,369 votes from the Basirhat Lok Sabha seat. Chakraborty and Jahan, who were among 17 women candidates to get Trinamool Congress tickets in this Lok Sabha polls, earlier, were mocked over their eligibility to contest the election, despite having no prior political experience. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Vinayak Savarkar is popularly known as Veer Savarkar and Svatantryaveer Savarkar and today we are celebrating Savarkars 136 birth anniversary. A poet, philosopher, playwright, and a well-admired political leader, he was a brave freedom fighter and social reformer. On his birthday today, we bring to you some little-known facts about the aggressive freedom fighter: Veer Savarkar was born on May 28, 1883 in a village, Bhagur (Nashik) Maharashtra; he had 3 other siblings namely Ganesh, Narayan and Maina (sister). While pursuing his BA from Fergusson College in Pune, he was inspired by Lokamanya Tilaks announcement to boycott British clothes. He went a step ahead and on October 7, 1905, during Dusshera, he set up a bonfire (holi) and burnt all his foreign clothes and goods. Veer Savarkar created the term Hindutva . He emphasised its distinctiveness from Hinduism; which he associated with political communalism. . He emphasised its distinctiveness from Hinduism; which he associated with political communalism. Veer Savarkar was the first poet in the world who was deprived of pen and paper in a jail. He improvised and used thorns and nails to compose his writings on prison walls. Not one but eight works of Savarkar were banned by British government. The list includes: Mazzini his biography in Marathi, Indian War of Independence 1857, drama Usshaap, Shraddhanand magazine by his brother that carried his articles and his biography by GP Parchure, among others. Veer Savarkar practised dining of all Hindus together irrelevant of the castes in 1930. He was the first revolutionary-cum-politician who within 10 years eradicated the evil practises of untouchability in Ratnagiri, where he was interned. Veer Savarkar pioneered the Shuddhi movement. The movement was against the Muslims who were forcing their religion on Hindus using prison authorities. The movement was to re-convert those people back to Hindu dharma. According to Veer Savarkar, the Hindu society was bound by seven bandis (prohibitions); viz. ( sparshabandi ) prohibition of touch of certain castes, ( rotibandi )prohibition of inter-dining with certain castes, (betibandi) -prohibition of inter-caste marriages, (vyavasayabandi) -prohibition of pursuing certain occupations, ( sindhubandi ) prohibition of seafaring, ( vedoktabandi ) prohibition of rites sanctioned by the Vedas, ( shuddhibandi ) prohibition of reconversion to the Hindu fold. (prohibitions); viz. ( ) prohibition of touch of certain castes, ( )prohibition of inter-dining with certain castes, -prohibition of inter-caste marriages, -prohibition of pursuing certain occupations, ( ) prohibition of seafaring, ( ) prohibition of rites sanctioned by the Vedas, ( ) prohibition of reconversion to the Hindu fold. On July 1911, Savarkar was sentenced to two life sentences i.e. 50 years in the cellular jail of Andamans, also known as Kala Pani. After mercy petitions and pressure from Indian National Congress he was shifted to Yerwada Jail in 1923 and was released in 1924 under strict conditions of not participating in politics for 5 years and barring to leave Ratnagiri district. In 1964, Savarkar felt his goal of Independence India is achieved and it was time to leave. So he declared his wish to attain Samadhi and started hunger-strike on February 1, 1966 and passed away on February 26, 1966. In 1970, Indira Gandhis government issued a postal stamp in honour of Veer Savarkar. Andaman and Nicobar Islands Port Blair airport has been named as Veer Savarkar International Airport. History has not been kind to Savarkar, as his name was soiled with Mahatma Gandhis murder. Known for his famous escape from a ship and swimming across the ocean only to be captured again, he became a cause celebre in France. Veer Sarvarkar is one of those freedom fighters who couldnt claim much credit of their deeds because of the false propaganda against them. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: At least 2 people were killed and 17 injured in a mass stabbing incident on the street in Kawasaki City, south of Japan's Tokyo. The injured included primary school children. A man with a knife attacked people lined up at the bus stop, according to media reports. Public broadcaster NHK said at least three people were in critical condition. Police said one suspect, a man, had been detained. NHK said he had stabbed himself, suffering a serious wound. aOne man and one female child are showing no vital signs, said fire department official Yuji Sekizawa, employing a phrase commonly used in Japan to mean the victims have died but the death has not yet been certified by an official medical professional. Footage broadcast on local TV stations showed multiple police cars, ambulances and fire engines at the scene. Emergency medical tents were put up to treat the wounded. The fire department said 17 others were injured in the attack, among them more children. aA man stabbed them,a another spokesman for the department, Dai Nagase, earlier told AFP. aWe received an emergency call at 7:44 am, which said four elementary schoolchildren were stabbed.a Police said one suspect, a man, had been detained. NHK said he had stabbed himself, suffering a serious wound. There was no immediate indication of a motive. #BREAKING | Two feared dead after Japan stabbing: fire dept For more updates, visit https://t.co/FKiTwn4lh5 pic.twitter.com/ihNRT7dBuH a News Nation (@NewsNationTV) May 28, 2019 For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Beijing: China on Tuesday rejected US Ambassador Terry Branstad's call to Beijing to engage in "substantive dialogue" with the Dalai Lama, saying it was firmly opposed to "foreign interference" in Tibet and its internal affairs. Branstad visited Tibet from May 19 to 25, the first such visit by a US ambassador to China to the remote Himalayan region since 2015, where access is restricted for diplomats and journalists. During his visit, he asked the Chinese government to "engage in substantive dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his representatives, without preconditions, to seek a settlement that resolves differences," according US embassy spokeswoman who briefed the media. "He also expressed concerns regarding the Chinese government's interference in Tibetan Buddhists' freedom to organise and practice their religion," she said. Asked about the US envoy's call for dialogue with the Dalai Lama, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang told media here that Chinese officials had briefed the ambassador about China's religious and ethnic policies and also about socio-economic development in Tibet. It has also been made clear to him that "the Chinese government's policy on dialogue and contact with the Dalai Lama and foreigners access to Tibet. Finally, it was also stressed that China firmly opposes any foreign interference in Tibet affairs in China's domestic affairs," he said. "The ambassador thanked China for the hospitality given to him and spoke positively about socio-economic development in Tibet and said that the visit helped him have a better understanding of the situation in Tibet," Lu said. Beijing's permission to Branstad came after the US early this year passed the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act of 2018, warning equal and reciprocal measures if Beijing denied access to American citizens, government officials and journalists to Tibet. The new US law would impose a visa ban on Chinese officials who deny American citizens, government officials and journalists access to Tibet. Before the US's envoy's visit, Lu hoped that he would make an objective and unbiased judgement on the situation in Tibet. China, which accuses the Dalai Lama as a "splittist" working for Tibetan independence, has held talks with the Dalai Lama's representatives to find an amicable solution to the Tibetan issue in the past. The last such dialogue took place in 2010. The 14th Dalai Lama had fled to India in early 1959 to escape from the Chinese occupation and lives in exile in the hill town of Dharamshala. Beijing criticises the Dalai Lama's demand for autonomy, saying that it is a ploy for separation of Tibet from China. Chinese officials have said in the past that the Dalai Lama's demand to unify all the Tibetan prefectures with the present Tibetan Autonomous Region and provide greater autonomy is unacceptable to Beijing. Over 120 Tibetans committed self-immolations in recent years calling for the return of the Dalai Lama from his exile in India. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Iran on Monday hit out at the United States for causing tensions in the region. The statement came after US President Donald Trump said his government was not seeking regime change and that he would welcome talks with Tehran. The Trump administration was hurting the Iranian people and causing tension in the region, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif wrote on his Twitter account. Actionsnot wordswill show whether or not thats @realDonaldTrumps intent, Zarif added, referencing the US presidents Twitter handle. Zarif also denied Iran was seeking nuclear weapons, after Trump said during a visit to Japan that were not looking for regime change (in Iran)... were looking for no nuclear weapons. Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei long ago said were not seeking nuclear weaponsby issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them, the foreign minister tweeted. Donald Trump announced on Friday that some 1,500 additional US troops would deploy to the Middle East against a backdrop of soaring tensions with Iran. We want to have protection in the Middle East, Trump told reporters as he prepared to set off on a trip to Japan. Were going to be sending a relatively small number of troops, mostly protective, Trump added. Itll be about 1,500 people. The deployment includes reconnaissance aircraft, fighter jets, engineers, and the extension of the presence of a Patriot missile defense battalion that accounts for 600 of the personnel. This is a prudent response to credible threats from Iran, said Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan. Pentagon officials said the 1,500 additional troops were in response to recent incidents in the region that US intelligence had tied to Irans leadership. Trump had threatened to meet provocations by Iran with great force". The president however said that hes also willing to negotiate with the Islamic Republic. He says, If they do something it will be met great force. But he adds, We have no indication that they will. Still, he is not mincing his words, calling Iran hostile and the No. 1 provocateur of terror. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Islamabad: Pakistan has tried to downplay India's decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modi's swearing-in on Thursday, claiming that the Indian Prime Minister's "internal politics" does not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a part of the seven-member regional grouping. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Prime Minister Khan to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. "His (Prime Minister Modi's) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon)," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. "India's internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation," he said. Modi and Khan are scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan next month. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in held on May 26 in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Khan after he won the general election last year and wrote a letter as well. Prime Minister Khan, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. "Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Mr Modi as a goodwill gesture," the Pakistani foreign minister said. "Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region... the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. "It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tension," Qureshi said. Prime Minister Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. One of the most beautiful traditions of Bahraini society is the Ramadan Majlis. After prayers, and in keeping with the mood for introspection, people gather at Majlis to discuss current affairs, news and intellectual matters. What makes these Majlis important is that they are an intellectual level ground, where everybody is equal and can openly talk and share ideas. It is also valuable because the leaders in the Kingdom make it a point to keep their doors and minds and hearts open to the public and also to attend the Majlis of citizens. In the past few Ramadan days, we have seen the Deputy King visiting the Majlises of some prominent citizens and meet people and listen to their ideas and concerns. It is this engagement with the public that strengthen our Bahraini community and build close ties. It is a time -honoured tradition which shapes the Bahraini experience of citizenship. After all, how many times have we heard of leaders of even most democratic countries visiting citizens homes to greet them on special occasions and listening to the public? In a close-knit community like Bahrain, our Deputy King has highlighted the efforts of Bahraini citizens in meeting challenges and staying united. This reflects the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa who underscores the role of citizens in Bahrains progress and how our unity is our strength. The Holy Month is a time for reflection and for building our network of friendship and unity. These are what will give us a valuable anchor in times of difficulty. They help us to forge our own unique experience of democratic values in which our ancient tribal community heritage takes centre-stage and is guided by the National Action Charter and the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030. The Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister, HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, yesterday asserted Bahrains full solidarity with Saudi Arabia in all measures it takes to strengthen the regions stability and peace. The emergency Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Arab summits, HRH the Premier said, is vital considering the critical situation the region is currently going through. Whoever seeks their countrys stability should be keen on Saudi security and stability, and has to counter any attempts to target it, the Prime Minister said calling on to adopt unified GCC and Arab stances in support of sisterly Saudi Arabia. The session wished the two emergency summits every success in coming up with resolutions that would serve the interests of GCC, Arab and Islamic countries and their peoples. The Cabinet also condemned in strongest terms the brutal attack on Holy Makka by the Houthi militias with a ballistic missile. The session described the attack as a despicable assault on the sanctity of the holy sites that provokes all Muslims, affirming Bahrains full-fledged solidarity with Saudi Arabia. The Cabinet then welcomed the visit carried out by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to the United Arab Emirates, and his meeting with the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan. HRH Premier lauded the long-standing distinguished solid relations between Bahrain and the UAE, and their joint keenness to strengthen them further. HRH the Crown Prince yesterday called for further deepening the bilateral cooperation between Bahrain and Jordan. During a meeting with HRH Prince Hashim bin Al Hussein, His Majesty King Abdulla IIs Chief Royal Councillor at Riffa Palace, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa highlighted the longstanding bilateral relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. For his part, HRH Prince Hashim expressed his appreciation and gratitude to HRH the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister on his warm hospitality, wishing the Kingdom of Bahrain further prosperity. The Crown Prince hosted an Iftar banquet in honor of HRH Prince Hashim and the accompanying delegation. Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa yesterday approved one-time funding of BD230 million to finance the governments Voluntary Retirement Scheme. The fund, HRH Premier while chairing the weekly Cabinet meeting said, will be moved to the public account from the surplus of the Insurance against Unemployment account. Approved by the Board of Directors of the Social Insurance Organisation, the move is in line with Law 4/2019 on amending some provisions of Decree-Law 78/2006 on Insurance against Unemployment. The Minister of Finance and National Economy was requested to take the necessary procedures to transfer the amount. Hospitals to be run by a board The session endorsed a recommendation by the Ministerial Committee for Legal and Legislative Affairs on a draft-decree to form a board of trustees for government-funded hospitals and another for primary health care centers. The two boards of trustees will carry out the tasks stipulated in the Social Insurance Law promulgated by Law 23/2018. The Supreme Criminal Court of Appeal yesterday reduced to five years the ten-year jail term awarded to a Bahraini man accused of planting a fake bomb in the Capital Governorate. The appellant was among a group of six accused of disrupting public order by placing a fake bomb on a public road in the Capital Governorate On 6 September 2015, the group burnt tires on Oman Avenue and placed there air-conditioners cylinders wrapped with electrical wires. The device, resembling an explosive device, terrified commuters, and residents in the area. Following an investigation, one of the suspects landed in police custody. He revealed the identities of others involved in the crime. The Supreme Court of Appeal yesterday upheld the verdicts against two Bahraini men found guilty of receiving funds from a Qatari minister to disrupt the Parliamentary elections last November. The Fourth High Criminal Court, in its February 6 judgment, awarded the first accused a five-year jail term and a fine of BD2,000. The Court gave the second accused a three-year jail term and BD1,000 penalty. The first suspect was also a candidate in the Parliamentary elections here. Court files say he was arrested, upon his arrival in the Kingdom from Qatar through Kuwait last October, with BD12,000 in undeclared cash. Further investigations proved that the suspects often received money from his Qatari contact also a former Qatari Interior Minister Abdullah bin Khalid Al Thani. Transactions were made either through bank accounts or received by hand from Qatar by making frequent visits. Customs officials arrested him while he was returning from one such visit to collect cash from Qatar. Investigators also found that the suspect received the money to support his campaign for the 2018 parliamentary elections. In return for the cash, the suspect was bound to serve Qatari interests by harming the Kingdoms legislative works from the Parliament. Officials recorded the arrests at the Bahrain International Airport. During the investigation, the first suspect denied the accusation leveled against him by claiming that he forgot to declare the money and was not attempting to hide. President Donald Trump said yesterday that he is not personally bothered by recent short-range missile tests that North Korea conducted this month, breaking with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who is hosting the president on four-day state visit full of pageantry Standing beside Trump at a news conference after hours of talks, Abe disagreed with the US president, saying the missile tests violated UN Security Council resolutions and were of great regret. Abe, who has forged a strong friendship with Trump and agrees with him on many issues, is concerned because the short-range missiles pose a threat to Japans security. Trump was invited to Japan to be the first world leader to meet with its new emperor . Despite being far from Washington, he didnt miss the chance to lob another broadside against former Vice President Joe Biden, one of the Democrats seeking to challenge Trump in next years presidential election. North Koreas Kim Jong Un recently criticized Biden as having a low I.Q. and Trump told the world he agreed with the authoritarian leaders assessment. When asked if he was bothered by Pyongyangs short-range missile tests, Trump said: No, Im not. I am personally not. The president has sought to downplay the significance of the missile tests, despite the fact that his own national security adviser, John Bolton, said over the weekend that they violated U.N. resolutions. Trump continues to hold out hope of eventually getting Kim to agree to give up his nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, despite two summits hes had with the North Korean leader that produced no concrete pledge to denuclearize the peninsula. Trump praised Kim, calling him a smart man who might have launched the missiles earlier this month to get attention. All I know is there have been no nuclear tests, no ballistic missiles going out, no long-range missiles going out and I think that someday well have a deal, Trump said, adding that he is in no rush. Abe reiterated his previous statement that the tests were carried out in defiance of the UN. The leaders held hours of talks after the US president at Abes invitation became the first world leader to meet Japans new emperor, Naruhito, who ascended to the throne May 1. The meeting with Naruhito and his wife, Empress Masako, was preceded by a grand outdoor welcome ceremony at Japans Imperial Palace, where Trump walked solo across red carpets, reviewing Japanese troops as the guest of honor. NEW MILFORD Even as rain rolled through the area Tuesday, divers and first responders continued searching with no success for the missing teen last seen Monday swimming in Candlewood Lake. The diving teams have been unable to locate the missing swimmer, New Milford Mayor Pete Bass posted to Facebook about 5 p.m. Tuesday. State diving team will continue until dark then all diving teams will resume tomorrow morning. Authorities have not released the name of the 17-year-old boy, who apparently drowned in Candlewood Lake. Crews spent hours Monday searching for him below the water off Dike Point Park, where the teen had celebrated Memorial Day with friends. New Milford Police Sgt. Jim Dzamko said detectives have interviewed the missing teens friends. The teens had been swimming near Rock Island, where the water is 20 to 30 feet deep, Dzamko said. Dike Point Park, owned by FirstLight Power Resources, which also owns Candlewood, is a popular swimming area in New Milford. FirstLight implemented rules in 2016, restricting the number of people in the park to 60 and the number of cars to 10. Before that, hundreds of people would be in the park, leading to littering and similar problems. FirstLight did not return a request for comment. More News Search continues for boy who possibly drowned in Candlewood Lake On Tuesday, boats with search dogs scanned the waters and shoreline south of the Gerards Waters Edge Marina, next to Dike Point Park. The murky waters hindered divers ability to find him, Dzamko said. Sonar equipment picked up several hits in the water, but it was unclear what it meant. It could be a body, Dzamko said. It could be a couple of rocks. Crews halted the search after darkness fell Monday and resumed the next day. The search turned into a recovery operation for the boys body on Tuesday. Officials from New Milford Police Department, the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and State Police gathered under a tent in the marinas parking lot Tuesday as the rain fell. Newtown Police Departments search and rescue dive teams truck was parked nearby. A New Milford ambulance was also in the parking lot throughout the day. Brookfield polices dive team did not end up getting in the water Monday, said Patrolman Joseph Kyek, who is on the team. The team of six could be called again to help relieve the divers, but as of Tuesday afternoon had not been asked, he said. The Danbury Fire Department sent mutual aid a little after 11:30 a.m. Tuesday to assist New Milford police with light and air at Gerards Marina. The last drowning death on Candlewood Lake was on Oct. 21, 2018. Gary Hayes, 48, of East Hartford, drowned after a boat capsized. Officials received a report around 12:30 p.m. about an overturned vessel with two men on board. The other man was able to swim to shore despite the cold water temperatures and refused medical treatment. Fifteen drowning deaths were recorded between 1998 and 2010, according to state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. The Associated Press contributed to this story. A one-time insurgent populist is re-elected on a track record of solid economic management, renewed commitment to infrastructure and an acknowledgment that religion plays a role in many people's lives. You'd be forgiven for thinking that election was in Australia or India, where talking heads have been quick to link recent right-wing wins to President Donald Trump's ascendancy. The country is Indonesia, whose 260 million-strong population and potential for economic growth make it far more consequential than Australia. By mid-century, the archipelago nation is projected to be one of the world's four biggest economies, alongside the U.S., China and India. President Joko Widodo, commonly referred to as Jokowi, last week was formally declared the winner of elections held April 17. Superficially, Jokowi's triumph might seem like the latest election outcome to seek Trump analogies. But look closer and there's reason to think there might be holes in the story line that right-wing parties are sweeping the board. Just as populists failed to completely dominate elections for the European Parliament. In many ways, Jokowi was the least conservative, least aggressively nationalist and least craven in his pandering to hardline Islamic sentiment of the choices. His opponent, Prabowo Subianto, presented himself as the classic strongman. A former top general, Prabowo married the daughter of autocratic ex-ruler Suharto, and left the military amid complaints about human-rights abuses. As Election Day neared, Prabowo amped up his right-wing nationalist rhetoric. Elites were raping the nation, he claimed, glossing over his own pedigree. Prabowo dialed up appeals to identity politics, brandishing support from Islamic firebrands so radical they were exiled from Indonesia. I was in Jakarta the week before the election, where likening Prabowo to Trump was a popular pastime. In the end, Jokowi's ability to deliver an unspectacular albeit steadily growing economy trumped Prabowo's brand of rabid nationalism. Indonesia's economy has performed decently under Jokowi's watch. Growth in gross domestic product has fallen short of the 7 percent he targeted when first elected in 2014, but has chugged along at a respectable 5 percent. Jokowi was also attentive to healthcare, the social-safety net and poverty alleviation. For decades, Indonesian leaders talked a good game on infrastructure. Jokowi delivered, opening the first stage of Jakarta's subway system a few months ago. An extensive highway program in Java and Sumatra, the two biggest islands, will be bolstered in the president's second term. Jokowi did shore up support by weaving the importance of Islam into his campaign, selecting a senior cleric as his running mate. The president has also been an economic nationalist, putting significant mineral and energy assets under the wing of state companies. For good measure, Jokowi has been careful to keep China at arm's length. Bottom line: Jokowi still lands in the populist bucket, even if voters show an appetite for a more centrist version of it. Indonesia's young democracy is far from perfect. Balloting revealed a country increasingly polarized, geographically. Much of Sumatra and important chunks of Java plumbed for Prabowo while the east of the country mainly opted for Jokowi. (As a general rule of thumb, the further east you go in Indonesia, the less the attraction of strict forms of Islam.) There's also a growing metropolitan-rural divide that's different from what we see in the West. In some regions, urban districts supported the hardliner candidate while inland areas, which tend to be less developed and stand to gain more from welfare spending and beefed-up healthcare, backed the incumbent. Indonesians have only voted directly for president since 2004. The rioting that beset Jakarta after the electoral commission formally declared Jokowi the winner May 21 shows democracy is still maturing. But give the world economy's next big thing its due. Eighty percent of the 190-million strong electorate cast ballots, easily surpassing turnout levels in India and the U.S. Even more impressive was that balloting for president, parliament and provincial roles took place over six hours. Polls opened at 7 a.m. and closed at 1 p.m. Scores of election workers died from exhaustion across the 17,000 volcanic islands that straddle the equator. When was the last time people cared that much in America or Western Europe? The most populist, nativist and divisive of the two campaigns was decisively defeated: Jokowi got 55 percent of the vote, a 10-point margin over Prabowo. This tends to get lost in a rush to draw a link between everything, everywhere to Trump. --- Moss is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering Asian economies. Previously he was executive editor of Bloomberg News for global economics, and has led teams in Asia, Europe and North America. The leader of Italys right-wing League Party, Matteo Salvini, said populist and nationalist parties will control at least 150 seats in the new 751-seat European Parliament. ECFR (European Council on Foreign Relations) published results of surveys that show most Europeans believe the EU could fall apart within the next two decades. Salvini told RAI state television that his League, Marine Le Pens National Rally in France and Nigel Farages Brexit party in Britain together should control 90 seats. He says other populist parties in the Europe of Nations and Freedom Group could bring that number to 150. Le Pen and Salvini are joining forces to try to reform the EU. Salvinis League gaining in strength in Italy to nearly 34% of the vote, a huge boost over the formerly regional partys 6% support in 2014. Matteo Salvinis League was the big winner in Italy. Salvini has a coalition of businesspeople who want to cut taxes, to voters hostile to migrants, to fierce opponents of gay marriage. SOURCES- AP, CNBC, the Guardian, France 24 NEW CANAAN A mother of five children who went missing last week has been involved in a long custody battle in a divorce case that has spanned two years. Jennifer Dulos was reported missing Friday night and a search for the 50-year-old woman intensified Tuesday with about a dozen state police and New Canaan police cars lining her Welles Lane neighborhood. Police and K-9 units searched a wooded area along Frogtown Road between Weed Street and Ponus Ridge Road. Dulos filed for divorce in 2017 from her husband, Fotis Dulos, who she has been married to for 13 years. The two have five children between the ages of 8 and 13, including two pairs of twins. A hearing is scheduled at the Stamford courthouse for 10 a.m. Wednesday, one day after a court-appointed guardian ad litem (GAL) filed a motion for a status conference regarding the safety of the children. Michael Meehan, a Bridgeport attorney, has served as a GAL for the Dulos children. In cases where a parenting plan cannot be agreed upon, the court could order a GAL to independently represent the best interests of the child, according to the Connecticut Judicial Branch. When reached Tuesday night, Meehan said, I have no comment at the moment. Jennifer Dulos had filed for an emergency order for full custody that was denied in July 2017. The plaintiff has not established by a preponderance of the evidence that there is an immediate and present risk of physical danger or psychological harm to the parties children. As a result, the request for emergency relief is denied, an order from the court in July 2017 reads. The two had a temporary shared custody arrangement until the end of the divorce proceedings. The couple lived in Farmington until Jennifer Dulos left with the children abruptly and rented a residence in New Canaan in June 2017, according to an order from the court filed in July 2017. They had previously agreed to separate, and Jennifer Dulos planned to relocate with the children in Pound Ridge, N.Y. Fotis Dulos remained at the Farmington home, which he also uses to operate his construction business, The Fore Group. Fotis Dulos could not be reached for comment on Tuesday. Messages left for Fotis and Jennifer Dulos attorneys were not immediately returned. The State Police Major Crime Unit is assisting New Canaan police with the investigation, a state police spokesman said. New Canaan police said Dulos was driving a black 2017 Chevrolet Suburban at the time of her disappearance. Police posted on Instagram on Tuesday night that the vehicle was found on Friday. The vehicle operated by Jennifer was located on Friday May 24th, the post reads. The reason a vehicle description was given in the most recent post was to provide the public with a description of the vehicle that Jennifer was operating on Friday May 24th. Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated the Dulos children were between the ages of 6 and 11. Those ages were when Jennifer Dulos filed for divorce in 2017. The children are now between the ages of 8 and 13. New Canaan Police are asking anyone who had contact with Dulos on Friday or has information regarding her disappearance to call the New Canaan Police Tip Line at 203-594-3544. HAMDEN Quinnipiac University board member and alumnus Arthur Rice, a veteran, has donated $1 million for the schools veteran and military affairs program. Rices gift and a matching contribution from the university will fund the Veterans Memorial Endowed Scholarship to provide tuition assistance for undergraduate veterans during summer sessions and the January term. Tuition during those terms is not covered by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Post 9/11 GI Bill tuition benefits. Art Rices leadership and passionate engagement as an alumnus, trustee and chairman of the Trustees Development Committee is powerful and impactful, Quinnipiac President Judy Olian said. Providing financial assistance for veterans who have served our nation is fitting given Arts heroic service in Vietnam. As a committed veteran, Art Rice is leading by example. Recently named one of the top military friendly universities in the nation, Quinnipiac serves more than 200 veterans and active military members. The university participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program and partially or fully funds tuition and fee expenses that exceed the established thresholds under the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Our warrior-scholars are very mission focused and dedicated to improving their lives and communities stemming from their experience at Quinnipiac, said Jason Burke, Quinnipiacs director of veteran and military affairs and a former Navy pilot. To have a military veteran like Arthur Rice recognize the need to support their funding gaps in benefits significantly enhances the quality of life of our cadre. As we celebrate and remember our fallen heroes during this Memorial Day weekend, I am gratified to be in a position to provide financial assistance to our veterans, said Rice, an attorney in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This touches me personally, and I am delighted to advance the excellent programs already available to veterans at Quinnipiac University. Twin 6-year-old brothers were killed Sunday in South Carolina when they were thrown from a vehicle that crashed, and their mother is charged with DUI, according to troopers. Officials said Jennifer Lynn Knox was driving a BMW in Pickens County at about 10 p.m. Her twin sons, Dylan and Camryn Clark, were in the backseat, officials said. Troopers said that, when Knox tried to pass a vehicle that was pulling a boat, her BMW crashed head-on into a 2014 Kia that was heading south. Troopers said the BMW overturned and slid down the highway on its roof. The BMW then hit a culvert and overturned again, causing Knox and the boys to be thrown from the car, according to troopers. Knox and the twins were not wearing seat belts, the coroner said. The boys died at the scene, troopers said. Knox was airlifted to the hospital, according to troopers. Trooper Joe Hovis said the boys' mother, Jennifer Lynn Knox, of Seneca, is charged with two counts of felony DUI resulting in death, two counts of child restraint violations, child endangerment and a seat belt violation. Troopers said the person driving the Kia was not hurt. The boys' family is trying to raise money to cover funeral expenses with a GoFundMe page. "Truly heartbreaking, losing a child," the page reads. "Totally devastating, losing twins boys at the same time. RIP little warriors, fly high and know that you are truly loved and missed every second of every day." NEW HAVEN A New Haven drug dealer was sentenced Tuesday to 6 1/2 years in prison for his part in a case that involved the death of an East Haven woman, federal authorities said. Devell Conley, also known as DL, 32, of New Haven, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to a total of 78 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing narcotics, according to a release from the office of Connecticut U.S. Attorney John H. Durham. The case is a result of an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users, the release noted. Related: New Haven man charged with distributing drugs, linked to womans death Further, according to court documents and statements made in court, it included that, on May 5, 2017, the East Haven Police Department responded to a report of an untimely death of a 27-year-old female at a home in that town, the release detailed At the home, officers seized drug and non-drug evidence, including three small bags that contained a substance that tested positive for the presence of fentanyl. The investigation revealed that Conley had provided drugs to the victim shortly before her death. He also had distributed heroin and crack cocaine to several drug users between July 2016 and May 2017, the release said. Conley has been held since his arrest May 18, 2017 and on Oct. 17, 2018, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of heroin and fentanyl, and one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of heroin and cocaine base, federal authorities said. Conleys criminal history includes 14 prior convictions, including convictions for drug distribution, assault, threatening, criminal possession of a firearm, and resisting arrest, federal authorities said. More News New Haven man pleads guilty to narcotics distribution The sentencing memos in the case portray very different sides of the defendant. Conley is, to be sure, a career criminal and an inveterate drug trafficker who has spent much of his adult life in prison, the governments memo says. The defendants prior sentences have not deterred him from criminal conduct. They have not engendered a respect for the law. And, as discussed more fully below, they most certainly have not adequately protected the public from Conleys persistent--and the instant case, deadly--drug trafficking, the government memo says. The memo recounts cell phone text messages shared between Conley, and the woman who later died, about drug purchases, as well as extensive other evidence used in the case. However, the defense memo portrays a difficult life for Conley growing up in New Haven that included alleged longtime neglect and abuse, marijuana, alcohol and other drug use at a young age, beatings, the slaying of his older brother, the death of his father and being shot twice. In the document, Conley apologizes for the death of the East Haven woman, whom he notes was a parent, as he is. I know by apologize (sic) wont fix your broken hearts, but I would like for you to know this event changed me (sic) life also, Conley wrote about the womans death in his letter to her family. Read the government memo: Read the defense memo: The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administrations New Haven Task Force and the East Haven and New Haven Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick F. Caruso. Newsfrom Japan Tokyo, May 28 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko will make an official visit to Poland and Finland from June 27 to July 6, according to a plan confirmed at a cabinet meeting Tuesday. The visit is the Crown Prince's first official overseas tour since he assumed his current title and became first in line to the throne May 1. According to the Imperial Household Agency, it will be the first time for the couple to visit the two European nations. The couple was invited by the two countries' governments respectively, as both states mark the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations with Japan this year. The Crown Prince and Crown Princess will leave Japan on a civilian plane from Tokyo International Airport at Haneda and arrive in Warsaw, the capital of Poland, on June 27. [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.] The 10-year-old Bergen County boy who was struck and killed by a NJ Transit bus on Memorial Day, was identified Tuesday as a Hoover Elementary School student in Bergenfield. Alvin Maracallo was hit around 4:30 p.m. near the corner of Veterans Plaza and Church Street by a bus on the 166 line in Bergenfield, according to NJ Transit. He was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead, police said. The woman driving the bus was also taken to the hospital where she was treated for distress, he said. Police said an investigation showed the child was on his bicycle traveling west on West Church Street. As he entered the crosswalk, the bus which was also traveling west on the same street made a left onto Veterans Plaza, striking the child. The Bergen County Fatal Accident Investigation Unit was called to assist in the investigation. The bus driver was not charged and the crash remains under investigation, police said. We are deeply saddened by the loss of this young mans life. Our heartfelt sympathies and condolences go out to the family. As a community, we all grieve with you, police Capt. Mustafa Rabboh said in a statement. Christopher M. Tully, superintendent of Bergenfield schools, said in a letter to parents that counseling is available for students. Learning of the death of a peer or a classmate can cause distress for some students, Tully said. Please communicate with your children at home and monitor their emotional wellness to continue to assess their needs. 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 man was killed and a woman injured when they were struck by a vehicle Friday in Ocean City, authorities said An SUV driven by a 48-year-old Woodbine woman struck the pair near the intersection of Eighth Street and Bay Avenue around 5:30 p.m., police said in a statement. A 47-year-old Lansdale, Pennsylvania man died as a result of his injuries at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center while a 40-year-old woman was treated for minor injuries. They were hit when the SUV turned from westbound Eighth Street onto southbound Bay Avenue. The driver stopped and cooperated with police. No charges have been filed. Police and the county prosecutors office are continuing to investigate. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips The Transportation Safety Administration Tuesday made a modest adjustment to its strict ban on airline passengers traveling with medicinal marijuana, in an acknowledgement products made with hemp pots sober relative no longer violate federal law. But the new rule does not open the friendly skies to weed possession, even in airports located in states where adults 21 and older or registered patients are free to buy and use it, the TSA said. Marijuana remains a schedule 1 substance deemed by the federal government to be dangerous and without medical merit. Thats why flying with marijuana remains a legal minefield tor the roughly two million medical marijuana patients in the nation, including 47,000 in New Jersey. The TSAs rule change recognizes two relatively major developments. The FDA last year approved the anti-seizure drug Epidiolex, made from cannabidiol or CBD, which is derived from cannabis but does not contain the psychoactive ingredient that gets people high. President Trump last year signed the farm bill, which legalized the production of hemp products. CBD oils, skin products and pill are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration but are widely sold. The new rules do not affect the vast majority of patients who smoke or vape medical marijuana. Products/medications that contain hemp-derived CBD or are approved by the FDA are legal as long as it is produced within the regulations defined by the law under the Agriculture Improvement Act 2018, according to the TSAs new guidance. The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint, according to the TSA website. Susan K. Livio may be reached at slivio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SusanKLivio. 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. Are you interested in the N.J. cannabis industry? Subscribe here for exclusive insider information from NJ Cannabis Insider. DitchMyTimeshareNow.com, a business that purportedly helps people get out of expensive, unwanted timeshares for a fee, offers this proverb on its website: The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out. But the proverb apparently doesnt apply to Daryl Turner, a man who appears to be associated with the business and whose exploits have been written about extensively by Bamboozled. Turner, who served less than three years of a seven-year prison term for scamming hundreds of people out of millions of dollars by selling sham travel club memberships, appears to be back in business, according to four consumers. The consumers believe that Turner, using the names Daryl Thomas or Daryl Young, collected their money, promising an easy way out of the timeshares. They say the man they believe is Turner told them to stop paying their timeshare bills and to ignore communications from the timeshare companies because his lawyers were on the case. Some customers are now at the mercy of creditors looking to collect and threatening foreclosure for non-payment. Its not fair that he gets to drive around in Porches while Im stuck with paying a timeshare that I still owe on, that he said hes going to get rid of, said Ashanta McGhee of Flagstaff, Arizona, who said he paid $1,650 to DitchMyTimeshare.com and got nothing in return. When reached by phone, Turner, who now appears to live in Merchantville based on the address listed on a traffic ticket he received in March, forcefully denied any involvement in the company. I have done my time, Turner said. I have nothing to do with the travel industry. I have nothing to do with travel at all. The DitchMyTimeshareNow.com Facebook page and the Daryl Thomas Facebook profile were taken down hours after our phone conversation with Turner. Turner called the Daryl Thomas account a fake account and said he reported it to Facebook. Facebook didnt respond to our inquiries about the removal of the profile and the page. When told that consumers identified photos of Turner from past Bamboozled columns as their DitchMyTimeshareNow.com contact, and that Turner is linked to the company by public records and a wire transfer receipt, he said it wasnt him. Im going to get to the bottom of this, he said. Ive done nothing wrong. The Division of Consumer Affairs, which investigated Turners past travel companies, has taken interest in the new consumer claims. The Division is concerned about these allegations against Daryl Turner and is looking into them, a spokeswoman said. The allegations In May 2018, Ashanta McGhee looked online for information about selling his Las Vegas timeshare. Soon after, an advertisement appeared in his Facebook news feed, he said. He clicked, and thats when McGee said he met a man who he says called himself Daryl Young, a representative of DitchMyTimeshareNow.com, on Facebook. McGee said he had Facebook chats with the man on a Facebook account for someone named Daryl Thomas. McGhee said he was skeptical at first, but he made me believe he was the real deal. McGhee paid $1,650 to the man, whom McGee says he believes is Turner, with a three-month payment plan, records show, and he also handed over personal information and details about the timeshare. He instructed me not to respond to [the timeshare] while the lawyers were in litigation with the property on my behalf, McGee said. According to transcripts of Facebook messages provided by McGhee, McGhee was advised to stop making payments on the timeshare and to forward any letters he received. McGhee would check in regularly, messages show. In between talking about sports, sharing birthday wishes and discussing the lavish lifestyle the man displayed in Facebook photos, he would explain delays in the process, McGhee said. The attorneys have written to developers and spoke to them. Waiting on a response from them, one message said. Another message said, All is going as planned lawyers have been in contact with developer. All good. As McGhee received nonpayment warnings from his timeshare, hed send them over to his contact, he said. Then he got a foreclosure threat. Soon after, McGhee came across a series of Bamboozled columns about Turner on NJ.com. When McGhee saw Turners photo, he realized it could be the same man, he said. Thats when he reached out to Bamboozled and filed a complaint with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. We reviewed McGhees Facebook messages, documents and photos he copied from the Daryl Thomas Facebook page. McGhee also supplied screenshots of other consumers who complained about DitchMyTimeshareNow.com on Facebook. This is a screenshot of a boat called "Turnerworld" on Daryl Thomas' Facebook page. The page has since been taken down. Other customers Thats how we met Tom and Catherine Crowley. They said they first talked to the man they believe to be Turner over Facebook in April 2018. Daryl told us that going with him would be painless and one of the best decisions that we ever made, Catherine Crowley said. He promised us financial freedom, but it has turned into a financial nightmare. The California couple said they paid $5,699 to the man, who was using the name Daryl Thomas on Facebook, for help getting rid of their timeshares in Orlando, Florida, and New York City. Thomas is Turners middle name, according to public records, and the couple said Daryl Turners photos in Bamboozled columns looked like those of the man they did business with through the Daryl Thomas Facebook profile. Rather than pay the DitchMyTimeshareNow.com fee by credit card, the Crowleys said the man instructed them to wire money to a credit union account. When they asked why, he said some customers, after they get out of their timeshares, would dispute the credit card charges, they said he told them, so he was just protecting the company. They also said they asked why the wire should go to the name Daryl Turner. He justified it by saying that Daryl Turner was the owner, Catherine Crowley said. He said that he, Daryl Thomas, was just sales. According to the couples wire receipt, the payment went to Daryl Turner. A redacted copy of the wire transfer from Tom and Catherine Crowley to Daryl Turner for DitchMyTimeshare.com services. Catherine Crowley said she was told to stop making payments on the timeshares. Over time, she was told their case was progressing, but the man stopped replying to messages in February, she said. He blocked them on Facebook in March, she said. The Crowleys said they reported the possible scam to their timeshare company, and theyre discussing how to bring the accounts into good standing after not paying for so long on DitchMyTimeshareNow.coms advice. The couple also filed a complaint with the Division of Consumer Affairs. Wendie Kleider Redman also said the photos she saw on Daryl Thomas Facebook page appeared to be the same as man as Daryl Turner, based on photos published with Bamboozled reports. She said she paid $2,100 for the companys services but got nothing in return. Her timeshare went into collections, records show. She said she saw the Facebook ad for DitchMyTimeshareNow.com in December 2017. I talked to [him] for one year. Ive seen his vacations and friends on Facebook, said Redman, who lives in Idaho. He told us to not pay our monthly payments, and he was in contact with the lawyers to get my timeshare taken away and have money back to us. 100% money-back guarantee. Screen shots provided by Redman of her Facebook messages with Daryl Thomas show that over a year, he offered many excuses when Redman questioned the status of her case: He was in trial. The lawyers were almost done. Its in final negotiations. But nothing happened. I feel real stupid, but he was really convincing, Redman said. I hope he gets caught. She also filed a complaint with Consumer Affairs. Further Facebook searches introduced us to Michael Young, a Kansas man who wanted to get rid of his Florida timeshare. He said he paid $600 to DitchMyTimeshareNow.com through PayPal, but then he became doubtful. We were working with them for a bit until they started asking for too much information, Young wrote on a Facebook post that asked about DitchMyTimeshareNow.com. When we cancelled (sic) we were assured refund and since, they have stopped communicating and blocked me from messaging them anymore. He disputed the charge with PayPal and got his money back, he said. Three other customers posted similar experiences on various public Facebook pages. Its been 12 months and I cant get a return phone call or email answered now. We signed a contract with a 12 month money back guarantee. To date no word or follow-up when to expect this. Seems they have dropped the ball. Buyer Beware!? one message said. Another said: Has anyone else paid Daryl Thomas to do terminations and found out hes full of false promises? Ditch My Timeshare? So glad I paid by card on PayPal. Dont be fooled by the spiel. Absolute tripe. Turners alleged connection and a closer look We took a closer look at DitchMyTimeshareNow.com and its alleged connections to Turner. The California address listed on the DitchMyTimeshareNow.com website is actually a Pack-N-Ship store in Los Angeles Koreatown neighborhood. The website offers testimonials from what it claims to be former customers, but they dont check out. Three of the testimonials are from people with unusual names who couldnt be found in Google searches or national databases. Plus, some of the testimonials name a different timeshare company in Florida, not DitchMyTimeshareNow.com. The site offers informational videos that claim the company has an A rating with the Better Business Bureau, but BBB doesnt have a listing for the company. The video also claims there are no complaints against the company. We have zero complaints anywhere online, it said. You wont find a single negative review on our company anywhere. Untrue, per the many Facebook complaints we found. The Terms and Conditions page of the website says its parent company is DMT Holdings LLC, based in Montana, doing business as Ditch My Timeshare Now. But neither DMT Holdings nor Ditch My Timeshare comes up in Montanas corporate database. Instead, we found several DMT Holdings in other states. One in Wyoming doesnt list Turners name, but it uses the same Pennsauken, New Jersey, address - the location of a UPS Store - that Turner used to register a different company, The Real Shark LLC, in Montana. That companys phone number matches one of Turners in public records, and the photo on the website matches those on Daryl Thomas Facebook page. The DitchMyTimeshareNow.com website registration uses a proxy server that shields its owners name, but the registration for DMT Holdings website is public. Its registered to Greg Jones at a Cherry Hill, New Jersey, address, home to another UPS Store. Public records connect the phone number on the registration to Daryl Turner, and its the same phone number Turner used when talking to Bamboozled. The DMT Holdings site has an attorney page that shows six supposed lawyers and their photos. A reverse image search found all six pictures are commercially available photos. We found they have been used generically on unrelated websites, including the Cleveland Clinic, Verizon and hundreds of others. One site even used the same six photos, with similar names, on its staff page. The attorney names also give pause. Three of the names didnt turn up in Google searches or in nationwide databases. The three other names did produce a handful of results, but the peoples ages or genders didnt match the stock photos on the DMT Holdings website. We supplied Turner with screenshots of the Facebook complaints and photos that linked the Facebook accounts of Daryl Turner and Daryl Thomas, and The Real Shark website. He still denied any involvement. I am NOT in the Timeshare [business] of any kind, Turner wrote from his email address, which starts with CloserEsq. Though the esq" in this email address may suggest he is an attorney, or esquire, Turner confirmed he is not. A database search of the email address found it was associated with an unidentified timeshare sales representative, and it was used to register two website domains, including the now defunct TheTimeshareHelpers.com. Anyone can write something on a Facebook page or any other page under an alias name, he said. I have done my time and am trying to move on without your false allegations. Turner also said he knew nothing about the wire transfer or the connections between the companies and him in public records. I just want to live my life under the radar, he said. I just want to be left alone. Turners shady past Turners troubles with the law go back longer than a decade. In July 2007, he received four years of probation after pleading guilty to theft by deception. As part of the plea agreement, prosecutors dropped charges of forgery, identity theft and passing bad checks. Court documents show he was awaiting sentencing on the theft charge when he embarked on his audacious travel club scheme, which involved a dozen fly-by-night businesses that sold travel club memberships for thousands of dollars and promised customers would get discounted vacation packages. Instead, customers said, they got swindled. They would try to book vacations, they told Bamboozled, only to learn their desired travel dates were unavailable. Eventually, the travel company was shut down. Next, Turner and his then-wife would reopen a new travel club under another name and start cheating consumers all over again, court records show. Daryl Turner at his arraignment in 2013 in Burlington County Court. (Tony Kurdzuk/The Star-Ledger) Bamboozled tracked the couples misdeeds, often learning of new companies from scammed customers before law enforcement was on the trail. The couples bogus companies included Dreamworks Vacation Club, Bentley Travel, Modern Destinations Unlimited, Blue Water Gateway, Five Points Travel Company, La Bonne Vie Travel and Vacation Clubs LLC. When the state caught up with them, prosecutors said the couple laundered more than $700,000 from their illegitimate businesses to pay for their Marlton home, which public records showed was worth $751,300 in 2011. The state put a lien against the home when the couple was arrested in July 2011, and it seized eight bank accounts, a speedboat and five luxury cars, including a Ferrari and a Bentley. When Turner finally pleaded guilty in 2013 to one charge of second-degree theft by deception in Burlington County Superior Court, he admitted that he pitched phony vacation membership packages and stole millions of dollars from would-be travelers. He served 33 months of a seven-year sentence. His parole ended on June 19, 2018, the New Jersey Parole Board said. His former wife received five years probation after pleading guilty to the same charge. In all, nearly 700 consumers filed complaints with the state. As part of their sentencing deals, Turner and his ex-wife were to repay $2.5 million in restitution, but less than $800,000 - money the state received after auctioning off seized property - has been paid, the state said. Turner and his ex still owe a total of $10.5 million in penalties, restitution and attorney costs to the state, making them one of the top 10 deadbeats who owe court-ordered payments and settlements to Consumer Affairs for cases settled between 2012 and 2017. Catherine Crowley, the customer who said she wired $5,699 to Turner, said she would gladly travel from California to help the state prosecute him. I expect that they will prosecute and throw away the key, Crowley said. He is scum, preying on people." NJ Advance Media Research Editor Vinessa Erminio and NJ Advance Media sports writer Bill Evans contributed to this report. Have you been Bamboozled? Reach Karin Price Mueller at Bamboozled@NJAdvanceMedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KPMueller. Find Bamboozled on Facebook. Mueller is also the founder of NJMoneyHelp.com. Stay informed and sign up for NJMoneyHelp.coms weekly e-newsletter. Three jazz festivals are set to take place in Jersey City this summer by Vault Allure and the first of three is set to take place Saturday, June 1, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. on the re-purposed Belgian block courtyard and vaulted bridge underside of historic Holland Street. The first Vault Allure show will serve as a part of the inaugural Jersey City Jazz Festival. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase by Jerk N Grind, Chilangos, and Lo-Fi among others. Vault Allure will feature the Akua Dixon Quartet, Fish Harmonics (Americana meets Jazz/World Music), Walter Parks Downright Iridescent, John Trigonis, Nokia Bell Labs Technology, Trading Fours Interactive led by Kelland Thomas, and a new interactive video led by Nicholas OBrien. The show will take place rain or shine and is open to the public. The next two Vault Allure shows will take place on July 13 and August 10. The entrance to Historic Holland Street can be found at Palisade Avenue at Bowers Street in the Jersey City Heights. Deutsche Bank and Union City are butting heads over a residential property with $2.5 million in code violations located on choice land next to Firefighters Memorial Park. The bank bought the vacant, two-story building at 910 Palisade Ave. at a sheriffs sale in late 2016 for just over $500,000. It already has a buyer, but the deal cant go through until the fines are paid, according to a lawsuit Deutsche Bank filed against the city in Hudson County Superior Court at the end of April. The complaint alleges the bank cannot sell the property due to the failure of Union City officials to take any action to either negotiate a settlement of the approximately $2,500,000 in fines or to sell the property to Union City. The city can seek to take the property via eminent domain and add it to the park if it chooses. In such a case, the city would have to pay the owner the fair market value of the property minus any valid liens against it. With $2.5 million in fines, that could make the property less than worthless. The lawsuit alleges that a representative of Deutsche Bank attempted to the speak to the citys building inspector but they wouldnt even talk to us before talking to the city attorney. Whats going on here is the city has a beautiful park right next-door and this [is a] property that is very valuable." A representative of the bank said The neighbor told me he wanted to put in an offer on the house but the city told him not to bother because they wont be settling with the bank for any violations that they owe on the property," the suit states. Union City spokeswoman Erin Knoedler said the city has no interest in owning the property and that this is another instance in which the city has to litigate because banks buy properties and do no bring them up to code. Knoedler said that according to a city ordinance, Deutsche Bank must either bring the building up to code and return the tenants to the building or pay the former tenants damages and relocation costs. That would have been the responsibility of the former owner but in purchasing the building, the responsibility became the banks obligation. The bank has owned other properties in Union City and other areas of the state under similar circumstances and in virtually every other case, if not every case, the municipality has agreed to resolve the outstanding violations within a reasonable amount of time, the suit says. The Deutsche Bank suit seeks monetary damages for the cost of carrying the property, including property taxes and insurance, as well as attorney fees and other relief the court deems proper. Violations cited at the Union City property in 2015 and 2016 include building a structure at the rear of the building without permits, making alterations to the interior of the building without permits, failing to get a permit/inspection for the installation of a water heater, building department documents say. The last notice was issued to Deutsche Bank in late 2018, citing the bank for failing to board up an abandoned structure, the documents say. Many of the fines have been increasing by $10,000 per week, the documents say. A heartless thief stole all the American flags placed along the wrought iron fence of the Historic Jersey City & Harsimus Cemetery in preparation for Mondays Memorial Day event at the site. I felt terrible, said Eileen Markenstein, volunteer president of the Historic Jersey City & Harsimus Cemetery on Newark Avenue. Its not like they cost a thousand dollars, its just the nature of the crime, especially since we were having this tribute. The roughly 25, 12 by 18-inch flags were fixed to the fence by veterans on Sunday. Hudson County Board of Education President Sudhan Thomas attended todays event at the cemetery and said the theft was sacrilegious. As outrageous and ridiculous as this sounds, it is an utter insult to the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice and are laid to rest in that cemetery, Thomas posted on Facebook. But volunteers at the cemetery quickly broke out a new batch of flags Monday morning and decorated the fence again before the Honoring Our Heros Memorial Day tribute and concert began at 1 p.m., Markenstein said. At the end of the tribute there was a blessing of flags which were then handed out for participants to place at the graves of veterans. The cemetery is the resting place of thousands of soldiers. It was the site of Revolutionary War skirmishes and housed an ammunition bunker during the war of 1812. Twenty years ago New Jersey had a civil war. But almost nobody noticed. Now we are at war with each other again. Same old arguments but now the positions seem to be reversed. Since you werent paying attention back in the nineties, Ill recap. For decades, leaders of South Jersey or at least the Democratic ones felt left out of the decision-making process in Trenton and demanded more. More power, more jobs, more money. They felt the north had it all, too much of it. And they wanted some. This time its different. This time the north or at least thats how southern leaders see Governor Murphy is checking to see how much more the south actually got. And how they got it. And the south is furious. Back in 1998 Democrats were the minority in both houses of the Legislature and Christie Whitman was governor. Joe Doria of Bayonne was Minority Leader in the Assembly and Loretta Weinberg of Teaneck was deputy. George Norcross, the unelected leader of the south, insisted one of his guys get either of those two top spots. Wait a minute, you are probably saying, George Norcross? Isnt that the guy we are reading about these days, the one who told the governor hes no longer welcome in Camden? Yes, right. All the other players have changed, but George Norcross is still calling the shots south of Route 195. When I was a newbie legislator I sat next to a man from one of the southern counties. We were at the end of a row on the left side of the Chamber where windows were drafty, and it was often chilly. However, this one day I noticed my seat mate actually trembling. I suggested that if he was that cold he ought to go down to the caucus room to warm up. He said he wasnt cold, and with his eyes cast down, he tipped his head across the floor to where a white-haired man was standing, talking with another legislator. I didnt get it, so I asked, Is he why youre shaking? Who is he? He whispered that it was George Norcross and he said every member of the southern delegation was scared to death of him. He added that if Norcross was on the floor something bad had to be happening. It was. A few days later, after some secret meetings, about a dozen legislators from the five southern counties stalked out of the Assembly caucus and began holding their own conclave, refusing to talk or collaborate with their colleagues from north or central Jersey or leaders of their own party. The little clout Dems had in Trenton shrank and almost nothing got done except things for which the Republicans already had enough votes. The stalemate lasted about a year and only resolved when Dems were voted into the majority in 2000 and there was enough power and enough money to share satisfactorily. Then a southern legislator became Majority Leader and a few years later a southern legislator became Senate President. And after a few more years, Camden got literally billions for redevelopment. No question it was needed and no question it worked. But some do question that George Norcrosss interests got big chunks of that money. Georges reaction was along the lines of How dare you? And he made it sound like it was all of Camden under suspicion, not just him. Governor Murphy merely ordered an investigation into the application and approval process for money distribution, but Norcross saw that as a declaration of war. This time its nuclear. A former assemblywoman from Jersey City, Joan Quigley is the president and CEO of North Hudson Community Action Corp. Submit letters to the editor and guest columns at jjletters@jjournal.com One person was killed and five others wounded as gunfire erupted in Trenton on Monday night just two days after a drive-by shooting outside a city bar wounded 10 people, authorities said Tuesday. The shootings were reported about 11:25 p.m. in the 100 block of Walnut Avenue about one mile from the shooting early Saturday night shooting at a Trenton bar that left 10 people hurt, according to Trenton police Capt. Stephen Varn. We had six individuals struck by gunfire, Varn said Tuesday. Officers found a man who had suffered gunshots to the head shoulder and forearm, according to Casey A. DeBlasio of the Mercer County Prosecutors Office. The victim was taken to Capital Health Regional Medical Center "where he was pronounced dead a short time later, DeBlasio said in a statement. The man was identified as Unique Anderson, 18, of Trenton. Five other gunshot victims were taken to area hospitals with gunshot wounds. They include a 22-year-old man from Trenton, a 20-year-old man from Edgewater Park, a 20-year-old woman from Trenton, a 19-year-old man from Trenton, and an 18-year-old man from Hamilton. The Monday night shooting comes after 10 people were wounded early Saturday in a drive-by shooting as gunmen fired at least 30 shots on a crowd, authorities said. The gunmen opened fire around 12:25 a.m. outside Ramoneros Liquor & Bar, formerly J&J Liquor & Bar and the Stokes bar. None of the injuries were fatal, officials said. DeBlasio said police are investigating a motive for Monday nights shootings but do not believe they are connected to the shootings on Saturday. The citys new police director, Sheilah Coley, said authorities were investigating if Saturdays shooting was gang related. There are gangs in Trenton, Coley said at a press conference on Saturday afternoon. They happen to be associated with neighborhoods and sometimes there are neighborhood conflicts. This might very well be a part of that friction. 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. When the New Jersey State Parole Board denied a convicted killers bid for parole two years ago, no one seemed aware at the time that one of those voting on the denial was a detective involved in the original investigation of the 1980 crime. Because of that conflict, Kevin Sabatini must receive a new parole hearing, appellate court judges ruled Tuesday. Parole board chairman Samuel J. Plumeri Jr., who previously served as a Trenton police detective, said he didnt recall having any role in Sabatinis case until that connection was revealed in the appeals process. Sabatini pleaded guilty to murder, robbery and kidnapping charges in the killing of William Grant, 57, of Bordentown Township. Sabatani, 59, was denied parole in 2016 and a second ruling determined he could not apply for parole again for another eight years. When Sabatini appealed both rulings, the full parole board issued a written decision affirming both decisions. It was when Sabatini and his attorneys reviewed board filings on that 2017 ruling that they spotted Plumeris name on a voting sheet indicating his support of the agencys final decision. Plumeri was an arresting and investigating detective in the case, Sabatini stated in his appeal. A Trenton Times story from 1982 confirmed Plumeris role in the investigation, describing how Sabatini cooperated with then-Trenton Detective Samuel J. Plumeri Jr. and led investigators to Grants body. This passage from a 1982 Times of Trenton story describes Samuel J. Plumeri Jr.'s role in the murder investigation. Before all of that, he was a Trenton cop. Plumeri stated that he had no recollection of involvement with the Sabatani case, according to the appellate ruling. He also noted that his name didnt appear in any of the police investigation documents on the case that the parole board had in its possession. Further, he stated he would have recused himself from the Sabatini parole matter had he recalled any earlier involvement. Parole board spokesman Anthony Ciavolella confirmed that the board didnt receive any police reports that referenced Plumeris role in the case. Chairman Plumeri has handled thousands of criminal investigations during his more than 40 years of law enforcement service prior to being appointed to the New Jersey State Parole Board and had no recollection of Mr. Sabatinis case, Ciavolella said Tuesday. Additionally, there was no police report that reflected Chairman Plumeris previous involvement in his investigation as a component of the record during Mr. Sabatinis consideration for parole. Furthermore, his police report was absent from the files sent to us upon consideration for his parole, the spokesman said. Following the revelation, the parole board acknowledged that Plumeri should have recused himself, based on its code of professional conduct and recusal policy, and requested that the matter be returned for a new parole hearing by the full board without Plumeris participation. The appellate court agreed and vacated the parole boards earlier rulings. Sabatini, described in news accounts at the time as the son of a Mercer County sheriffs officer, was 21 years old when he was sentenced to life in prison with the requirement that he serve at least 25 years before he would be eligible for parole in Grants killing. Sabatini, his girlfriend and another friend, Karen Craddock, were drinking at a bar in Bordentown when they met Grant, who was a Navy veteran. After drinking and traveling to several locations, the group feuded and the others turned on Grant. He was stabbed, beaten with motorcycle chains and a pipe, and his legs were burned with a cigarette lighter. He was killed by three deep stab wounds to the neck and chest, but also suffered several shallow knife wounds, news reports stated. The torture lasted for several hours and his bloodied body was found in a wooded area of Millstone Township with his hands tied behind his back, his feet tied at the ankles and a gag stuffed in his mouth. Craddock, described as an associate of the Breed Motorcycle Club, was convicted of murder, kidnapping and related offenses and sentenced to life in prison. The 64-year-old was released on parole in 2015, according to prison records. The girlfriend was sentenced on a robbery charge related to the case and another man was sentenced for conspiracy to kidnap Grant. Parole board members who worked in law enforcement will continue to recuse themselves when they learn of conflicts such as the one identified in the Sabatini case, Ciavolella noted Tuesday. "State parole board members who have a law enforcement background disqualify themselves from parole proceedings when they are aware of their involvement in the prosecution of an offender or a potential conflict of interest and they will continue to do so in the future, he said. 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 stabbing and shooting at a towing company in Mercer County Sunday afternoon left two people in critical condition, officials said. At 1:10 p.m., Ewing police responded to a report of a stabbing at Matts Towing on Fifth Street, according to a department spokesman. Authorities found a 36-year-old man with stab wounds and a 28-year-old woman who was shot in the abdomen, cops said. The incident took place in the secured lot of the towing company, police said. The victims, who knew each other, were transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center and are in critical condition. The detective bureau is investigating the incident, and anyone with information is urged to contact Det. Rich Tramontana at 609-882-1313. Sophie Nieto-Munoz may be reached at snietomunoz@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her at @snietomunoz. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips More than a dozen people were injured and one killed as gunfire tore through the streets of Trenton twice in just three days over the holiday weekend, prompting the capital citys mayor to call out council and federal gun laws in efforts to prevent further bloodshed. Early Saturday, two gunmen fired 30 shots during a drive-by near Ramoneros Liquor & Bar, formerly J&J Liquor & Bar and the Stokes bar in North Trenton. Ten people were injured, and authorities said at the time they believed the drive-by shooting could be gang-related. Then, on Monday night, another shooting took place about a mile away on Walnut Avenue, killing an 18-year-old and injuring five others. On Walnut Tuesday morning, as crime scene tape still tied to a tree fluttered in the wind, mourners stopped to sign a bed sheet memorial for the victim who died, Unique Anderson, 18, who went by the name Boogie. Authorities said Tuesday morning there was not any information connecting the two shootings. But the barrage of gun violence has rattled the city, where brazen daylight shootings have become too common. "Trenton has faced more than its share of tragedies this weekend alone, Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora said in a statement. [Sixteen] shooting victims is 16 too many. One fatality is one too many. Im confident in our police department and our county prosecutor to bring those responsible to justice, but that cant erase the permanent damage, and it cant bring back those weve lost. A second memorial on the 100 block of Walnut Avenue on Tuesday, May 28, 2019, where an 18-year-old was killed Monday night.Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com He also said state-by-state differences in gun control play a role in the shootings, as its easy to bring guns across state lines from Pennsylvania, even with laws New Jersey has enacted. Its federal action on gun control and investment in the city on behalf of the state that are needed to make Trenton safe, Gusciora said. Im a person of faith, but thoughts and prayers will not stop this horror, he said. The mayor also said Trentons police department is understaffed and working overtime, all without the proper technological advancements, due to a lack of an approved city budget. "I implore Council President McBride and her colleagues to pass the budget. That way, our police force will have the funding it needs, and we may continue addressing the underlying issues pushing our youth towards violence against our city. McBride did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday afternoon. 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. New Jersey health officials announced last week that 22 people were infected with Legionnaires disease and five older adults, who had other health problems, had died from the disease. The 22 cases between March 8 and May 13 all involved people who live in or visited Union County. While there are no further confirmed cases of the disease, a Department of Health spokeswoman said officials as of Tuesday have not identified the source of the outbreak. Legionnaires disease is caused by bacteria called Legionella. It can be contracted by breathing in small droplets of water containing Legionella bacteria, which can come from cooling towers (air conditioning units for large buildings), cooling misters, decorative fountains and plumbing systems. Legionnaires disease cannot be contracted by drinking water or through home air conditioning units, according to the Health Department. Those at increased risk to be infected by the disease are people over the age of 50, smokers or those with certain medical conditions, including weakened immune systems, chronic lung disease or other chronic health conditions. New Jersey Health Commissioner Dr. Shereef Elnahal said last week that the risk to any resident of Union County or recent visitor is very small. Here is what we know about the Union County outbreak. Three cases in Clark While local and state health officials have not determined where the outbreak has occurred within Union County, there are three cases of the disease in Clark. Nancy Raymond, the Clark Township health officer, said it is unclear where the three residents were infected but confirmed they lived in Clark. She said she did not have any further information. TapInto first reported that there were three cases in Clark last week. A state Department of Health spokeswoman said the department does not confirm cases down to the municipal level for medical privacy reasons, but also because as people travel around it is impossible to know what town they became infected in. Why did the state just announce the outbreak if it first started in March? Donna Leusner, a spokeswoman for the Department of Health, said the state opens investigations into possible Legionnaires disease outbreaks any time they see an increase in the number of cases in an area, like what has occurred in Union County over the past few months. However, Leusner said these investigations, which are conducted with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local health departments, are complex and take several weeks. The investigations, she said, involve interviews with patients to characterize the geographic area of potential exposure, mapping and field visits to obtain water samples that then need to be analyzed. Any time that individuals become ill with this serious infection when it could have been prevented, we are concerned, she said. However, the risk to any resident of or recent visitor to Union County is very small. Is there more than one source in this outbreak? State officials are continuing their investigation into the source of the outbreak, Leusner said Tuesday. However, she said this outbreak does not appear to be associated with a single location exposure and seems spread throughout the county and is affecting a larger number of people. Typically, the Department of Health investigates cases where the disease is coming from a common single source that only affects a few people. In this community outbreak, we have seen an unusual clustering of cases both in the time the individuals became ill and in the geographic area Union County, Leusner said. Health officials are conducting epidemiological and environmental tests in an attempt to find possible sources of the bacteria. How common is Legionnaires disease? According to the Department of Health, there are 250 to 350 cases per year in New Jersey. Leusner said 10 to 15% of the people infected die from the disease. Earlier this month, officials were investigating a suspected Legionnaires disease outbreak that infected three people at a Newark senior citizen apartment complex. The reported cases of Legionnaires' disease is on the rise in the U.S. What should residents be aware of? Dr. Debra Chew, an assistant professor in the department of medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, said residents who develop pneumonia-like symptoms, like a cough, fever or nausea, and who live in or who have visited Union County recently should seek medical attention. Chew said Legionnaires disease is treated with antibiotics. She added that without knowing the source of the outbreak, it is hard to know what remedial steps should be taken to stop its spread. Joe Atmonavage may be reached at jatmonavage@njadvancemedia.com. Follow on Twitter @monavage. 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. Former Cardinal Theordore McCarrick told a Vatican official that sharing beds with young seminarians at a Jersey Shore house was an unfortunate lack of judgment, but he insisted he never had sex with anyone, according to private correspondence released by one of his former aides. Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo, a priest ordained in New Jersey who served as McCarricks personal secretary and aide, released excerpts from nearly a decades worth of letters and emails Tuesday. Figueiredo said he posted the correspondence on his website -- available at http://thefigueiredoreport.com/ -- after several months of attempting to share them with Catholic Church officials. In addition to showing McCarricks denials of sexual abuse in his own words, the letters appear to confirm Pope Benedict XVI put restrictions on the cardinals public appearances in 2008 after allegations of sexual misconduct. But McCarrick appears to have not followed the new rules and gradually returned to making public appearances without any punishment by the Vatican. The existence of Vatican restrictions on McCarrick because of his alleged sexual misconduct had never been publicly confirmed. Critics said Vatican officials knew about allegations against McCarrick for years before they became public last year. In one of the newly-released letters, McCarrick said the Vatican wanted to avoid publicity and kept the 2008 restrictions on his ministry secret. However, the restrictions did little to derail McCarricks activities as one of the churchs post public faces. Within a few years, McCarrick was traveling around the world from China to the Middle East for the church, briefing Pope Francis on his travels and meetings with local leaders, according to the released letters. Pope Francis defrocked McCarrick, 88, earlier this year after a church investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct with boys, seminarians and fellow priests. McCarrick, the former head of the Archdiocese of Newark and the Diocese of Metuchen, moved to a friary in Kansas, where he has not commented on his dramatic fall from power. In a 2008 letter to Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the former Vatican secretary of state, McCarrick explained why he regularly slept in the same bed as seminarians at a vacation house at the Jersey Shore. I have always considered my priests and seminarians as part of my family, and just as I have shared a bed with my cousins and uncles and other relatives without thinking of it being wrong, I had done this on occasion when the Diocesan Summer House was overcrowded. In no case were there minors involved, but men in their twenties and thirties," McCarrick wrote. He denied any sexual misconduct. I have never had sexual relations with anyone, man, woman or child, nor have I ever sought such acts," McCarrick said in the letter. Figueiredo, McCarricks former secretary in Newark from 1994 to 1995, said he released the private letters because he wanted the truth to come out as the church tries to become more transparent. After working for McCarrick, Figueiredo was assigned to work in Rome, where he served as a key aide and emissary for his former boss as McCarrick rose to become the head of the Archdiocese of Washington and a cardinal. Figueiredo pled guilty to drunk driving last year in England after he crashed into a car driven by a pregnant woman. In his report releasing the letters, he said he is receiving treatment after years of alcoholism. Now I am deeply grateful for the therapeutic treatment that I am receiving, which has allowed me to embrace a life of sobriety, Figueiredo wrote. Kelly Heyboer may be reached at kheyboer@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KellyHeyboer. Find her at KellyHeyboerReporter on Facebook. 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 New Jersey man has been identified as one five people killed in a Honduras plane crash earlier this month. Bradley W. Post, 46, of Ho-Ho-Kus, died May 18 in a crash off the coast of Roatan, Honduras, according to his obituary. He was off on another one of his adventures, this time to learn how to fly fish," the obituary said. Post, survived by his wife and daughter, was a passenger of a Piper Cherokee Six that plummeted into the Atlantic shortly after takeoff from the popular tourist destination of Roatan en route to the port of Trujillo, according to the countrys agency of civil aeronautics The agency said in a statement that rescue boats with police divers and firemen recovered four bodies within minutes of the crash, and transported another to a hospital, where he died shortly after of internal injuries. Honduran authorities identified the pilot as Patrick Forseth, a Canadian national who developed tourism projects in the Trujillo Bay area. Post, who was born in Ridgewood, had a pilots license but was not flying the plane when it crashed, according to his obituary He and his younger brother purchased the family business, Post Financial Services Group, from their father in 2003 and continued to grow it until they sold to Hilb Group in 2016, his obit said. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl, and daughter, Kate, 17. This article contains material from the Associated Press. 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. An attempted shoplifting at the Woodbridge Center mall turned violent Sunday, when a Macys employee was stabbed twice by men who fled the store and drove away, police say. The incident happened around 5:25 p.m. and a security worker who tried to intervene was stabbed twice in the arm, according to the Woodbridge Police Department. The worker suffered serious injuries that were not considered life threatening and was taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, police said. The shoplifting suspects fled in a grey Honda Odyssey that was quickly located by Woodbridge officers on Route 1 after a brief pursuit, officials said. Police did not say what the men allegedly stole, but released the charges against each of them. Joel Cordello, 19, of Brooklyn was charged with receiving stolen property and robbery. James Edward Farrow, Jr., 59, of Cambridge Heights, New York, was charged with eluding, receiving stolen property, resisting arrest, conspiracy, robbery, forgery and possession of a controlled dangerous substance. Bruce Garcia, 49, of Brooklyn was charged with receiving stolen property, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, resisting arrest, conspiracy and robbery. Denise Orengo, 46, of Brooklyn was charged with receiving stolen property, resisting arrest, contempt, conspiracy and robbery. Kevin Orengo, 22, of Brooklyn was charged with receiving stolen property, resisting arrest and weapons-related charges. 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. When a law firm released a report earlier this month naming 311 Catholic clergy members from New Jersey accused of sexual misconduct there was something striking about the list-- it included women. Three nuns from New Jersey were among the priests, monks, deacons and other clergy members listed in the report compiled by New Jersey attorney Greg Gianforcaro and Jeff Anderson & Associates, a Minnesota-based law firm that specialized in representing victims of abuse. The law firm said it used lawsuits, settlements and news accounts to come up with its list of 311 clergy members -- far more than the 188 priests and deacons that were on a list from New Jerseys five dioceses released in February. None of the lists from New Jerseys dioceses -- Newark, Metuchen, Camden, Trenton and Paterson -- have included nuns. Most nuns are overseen by their individual orders, which would probably have handled any accusations of abuse in the past. While sexual abuse by priests has been widely publicized in recent years, sexual misconduct by nuns has been less discussed. By some informal counts, more than 100 U.S. nuns have been accused of sexual abuse over the last decade. But there has been no official list. The Leadership Conference of Women Religious, a group that represents religious orders, acknowledged in February that there have been nuns who have abused children in their care. The group is encouraging religious orders and institutions to reevaluate their practices and policies to prevent and report abuse. We encourage persons with grievances involving allegations of sexual misconduct by a woman religious to approach the individual religious congregation involved. We believe that it is at this level that true healing can begin, said Sister Annmarie Sanders, a spokeswoman for the Leadership Conference of Women Religious. Heres what we know about the three New Jersey nuns named in the Anderson law firm report: Sister Eileen Shaw Shaw, a member of the Sisters of Charity, was accused of abuse by a former student at Paramus Catholic Girls High School student from Ridgewood, according to several news stories. The nun was accused of sexually assaulting a teenage student starting in the late 1960s. Her alleged victim, Patricia Cahill, said she met Shaw when she was 15 and the nun gave her drugs and sexually abused her after she passed out. The alleged abuse continued for years, including when Cahill was an adult. Cahill, who has since become a vocal advocate for victims of sexual abuse by nuns, did not report the abuse to the Sisters of Charity until she was in her 40s, according to the news accounts. She said she received a $70,000 settlement from the Morris Township-based order. A review board of lay professionals and nuns investigated Cahills allegations in 1994 immediately after they were reported, said Donna Sartor-Halatin, a spokeswoman for the Sisters of Charity. Since 1994 and for the past 25 years Sister Eileen has been subject to a program of restrictions and therapy including permanent removal from ministry that she will remain subject to for the remainder of her life or as long as she is a Sister of Charity, Sartor-Halatin told NJ Advance Media. Shaw previously worked as principal Our Lady of Visitation School in Paramus and at St. Cecelia Elementary School in Kearny. After the abuse accusations, she worked as an administrator in a Jersey City retirement home for nuns, according to news reports. After extensive inpatient treatment, Sister Eileen has been confined to living with sisters. The congregation continues to support her in a restricted, confined lifestyle, Sartor-Halatin said. Sister Regina Two men filed a lawsuit in the early 2005 against the Archdiocese of Newark and the Pallottine Sisters, an order of nuns, alleging they were physically and sexually abused when they were children in the Sacred Heart Orphanage in Kearny in the 1940s. Henry Coffey, of Colonia, and Frank Fioretti, of Florida -- who were friends at the orphanage and later became brothers-in-law -- said media reports of priest sex abuse cases triggered their memories of being beaten and sexually abused by several nuns, including one called Sister Regina, according to an account they gave to The Star-Ledger in 2009. Frank Fioretti, then 82, and Henry Coffey, then 81, outside of Superior Court in Essex County after testifying about alleged sexual and physical abuse by nuns at Sacred Heart Orphanage in Kearny. (Star-Ledger file photo)SL One of the men said Sister Regina asked him to touch her breasts when he was 14 and she sexually molested him for several years before they had sex at a summer camp, according to the lawsuit. He said he later visited her in the 1950s, when she was dying, and she apologized for physically abusing him, but did not mention the alleged sexual abuse. The other man testified that Sister Regina used to tickle and kiss him while he was cleaning the stairs at the school, according to the court papers. The allegations were difficult to prove. The nuns, including Sister Regina, were dead and the orphanage had been closed since the 1950s. The Pallottine Sisters attorney argued at the time the case was impossible to defend because more than 60 years had passed since the alleged incidents. The case remained in court for years. A state appellate rejected the mens appeal in 2011, upholding a lower courts decision to throw out the case because too many years had passed since the alleged abuse under New Jerseys statute of limitations law. Sister Reginas birth name was never identified in the court papers. The Pallottine Sisters religious order, based in Orange County, N.Y., did not respond to requests to comment. Sister Andre A former New Jersey resident said a nun at Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Hillside sexually abused her daughter for years in the 1960s, starting when the girl was 12. The woman said the nun, known as Sister Andre, began paying special attention to her daughter when the girl was young and the pair eventually went on a trip down the Shore together, according to an account the mother gave to a New Orleans newspaper in 2002. The nun and the teenager would spend evenings at the convent, until the mother said she found a letter written from the nun on her daughters bed describing a sexual relationship. The teenager later said the nun sexually abuser her, her mother said. The family reported the incidents to the nuns supervisor, who later found journals and letters describing the sexual misconduct, according to the account the mother gave the newspaper. The nun was dismissed, she said. The family considered filing a lawsuit, but later decided it would be best to put the incident behind them. When the story ran in 2002, the head of the Dominican Sisters of Caldwell, Sister Andres order, said she was not aware of any complaints against the nun and did not know what happened to her. Her legal name was not revealed. The alleged victim committed suicide in 1989 after years of counseling to deal with her abuse, her mother told the New Orleans newspaper. The mother died in 2013. The Dominican Sisters of Caldwell did not respond to a request to comment on the case. Staff writer Vinessa Erminio contributed to this report. Kelly Heyboer may be reached at kheyboer@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KellyHeyboer. Find her at KellyHeyboerReporter on Facebook. 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. WASHINGTON Shruthika Padhy of Cherry Hill was one of the top 10 finalists in the annual Scripps National Spelling Bee each of the last two years. The eighth grader is back for another attempt beginning Tuesday. She is one of 16 students from New Jersey among the 564 individuals competing in this years annual bee. The finals will be televised on ESPN in prime time on Thursday. An eighth grader at Rosa International Middle School, she is competing in her fourth bee. She tied for 10th last year after finishing seventh the time before and 22nd in her first year. Its great to be able to represent New Jersey for the fourth time, said Shruthika, 13. Its amazing. A second New Jersey finalist from last years competition, Navneeth Murali, 13, of Edison, also is back. The seventh grader at Woodrow Wilson Middle School finished fifth. And Christopher Serrao of Whitehouse Station will be on stage a third time after competing the previous two years. The 12-year-old is a seventh grader at Readington Middle School. The spellers will be on stage for two days beginning Tuesday, when a wrong word means automatic disqualification. The scores of a preliminary written test given Monday will then be used to whittle down those who survived both spelling rounds to no more than 50 students. They will return Thursday morning for the finals that will be aired on ESPN2, and after several rounds of spelling, those still in the competition will be on stage Thursday night until a champion is crowned. The winner will receive $50,000 and a trophy, plus a $2,500 prize and reference library from Merriam-Webster, $400 in reference works from Encyclopdia Britannica, and trips to New York City to appear on Live with Kelly and Ryan and to Hollywood for a guest spot on Jimmy Kimmel Live. In all, 162 spellers are back for another try, including these other Jersey contestants who competed for the first time last year: -- Sky Lewit, 12, of Weehawken, a seventh grader at Weehawken High School. -- Sharvani Vadlamani, 13, of Dayton, an eighth grader at Crossroads South Middle School. -- Tai Nakamura, 13, of Emerson, a seventh grader at Emerson Junior-Senior High School. -- Aritra Banerjee, 12, of Hillsborough, a sixth grader at Auten Road Intermediate School. -- Aashi Mishra, 14, of Westfield, an eighth grader at Thomas Edison Intermediate School. Making their first trips to the bee are: -- Tian Hu, 10, of Jersey City, a fifth grader at School 16 in Jersey City who won the 60th annual Jersey Journal-Hudson County Spelling Bee. -- Hannah Campbell, 12, of Northfield, a seventh grader at Northfield Community Middle School. -- Saloni Singh, 13, of Secaucus, an eighth grader at Secaucus Middle School. -- Jeremiah Markose, 10, of New Milford, a fourth grader at Berkley Street Elementary School. -- Albin Mullan, 13, of Parsippany, an eighth grader at Central Middle School. -- Caroline Kovacs, 10, of Hoboken, a fifth grader at All Saints Episcopal Day School. -- Nitya Kathiravan, 10, of Edison, a fifth grader at Rutgers Preparatory School. -- Varshaa Venkitesh, 13, of Paramus, a seventh grader at East Brook Middle School. Two New Jersey students have taken home the grand prize. Katharine Close of Spring Lake, 13, won the 2006 bee when she spelled ursprache, a language reconstructed from later languages. Jonathan Knisely of Mullica Hill, 12, was the 1971 champion after spelling shalloon, tightly woven wool usually used for linings of clothing. Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JDSalant or on Facebook. 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. For all those who think Hawaii is too expensive to visit: Not when you go on the taxpayers dime! A merry group of New Jersey mayors will be making the trek for a four-day convention of the United States Conference of Mayors this summer, to network, share, and glean ideas from other parts of the nation. This includes a 7-person contingent from Plainfield, and Elizabeth Mayor Chris Bollwage, who will presumably find out how other cities discipline racist police directors, in Honolulu. He refused to fire his own until the Attorney General demanded it. Now, Bollwage can brush off questions from reporters about why his dysfunctional police department has ignored excessive force complaints, while enjoying Hawaiian music, hula, and fire dancers beneath the stars. The mayors of Kearny and Rahway, at least, told NJ Advance Medias Cassidy Grom that they will pay for their own airfare, room and board. Fanwoods mayor is using League of Municipalities money, some of which comes from taxpayers. But the rest of the mayors whove signed up including Bollwage and his counterparts in Pleasantville, Piscataway, Irvington Township and Plainfield are refusing to say who is footing the bill for their trip, if not their constituents. The optics are so bad it makes Joe D look good, the Essex County Executive known for jaunts to Puerto Rico, paid for by campaign dollars; or Sen. Bob Menendezs free flights to the Dominican Republic on his shady friends private jet. Should these New Jersey mayors decide to stay at the lovely Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, where the convention is being held, their rooms could cost taxpayers between $279 and $389 a night. Yes, for the mere price of absolutely free, thanks to you, they could get stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu coastline, soak in the sun on a balcony overlooking the beach, sample five outdoor swimming pools, lei-making, hulu and ukulele classes. We dont have time for such silliness, or lounging poolside with a tropical cocktail, they might say, frostily we will be busy talking infrastructure and paramedic services and trying to secure valuable grants for our communities. Of course. Thankfully, a few replenishing breaks are written right into the agenda: The mayors and their staffers get exclusive access to explore the opulent Iolani Palace, official residence of Hawaii's monarchy, on June 30th. And they will gather under the stars for dinner, drinks and a rooftop performance by one of Hawaiis most revered entertainers, Willie K. Granted, its not as if they were the ones who picked a temperate, 75-degree night on a rooftop in Honolulu, or booked the revered Willie K. Some are regular attendees at this event, held somewhere different every year. But when people in Elizabeth or Irvington could never in their wildest dreams spring for a trip like this, how long do you suppose it took their elected officials to decide to go, for free? Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. By Troy Singleton In recent years, independent expenditure campaign committees have become a growing influence over our electoral process not just here in New Jersey, but nationally as well. They funnel millions and millions of dollars in order to sway elections without ever disclosing the identities of their donors. This has led to a system that is dominated by wealthy special interests who remain anonymous. These clandestine entities live in the shadows of our political system, with benign sounding names designed to conceal donors identities and their true intentions. Their funding is known as dark money for a reason to keep the public in the dark and unenlightened. Consider this: in the 2017 statewide elections for governor and the Legislature, independent groups spent over $47 million , compared to a combined $27 million by state and county political parties. In the 2018 mid-term congressional elections, independent groups spent six times the amount expended by political parties a record breaking $49 million . Combined, that amounts to nearly $100 million of anonymous dollars spent to buy our votes just in the past two election cycles. The public has a right to know who funds the political ads they see on television, encounter on social media, and hear on the radio. Without knowing what interests are behind the information, they are unable to make informed decisions. Additionally, there is a growing cynicism that exists between the public and its elected representatives on all levels of government. A recent Eagleton/FDU Poll found that New Jersey residents view many of the politicians in our state unfavorably. Another key component of that disillusionment can be traced to our current campaign finance system. Too often, average citizens believe their voices are shut out. They believe that our politics and policies are driven by the well-heeled and well-connected, simply because they have the ability to give exceptionally large, secret donations. To combat that feeling of mistrust, we need real campaign finance reform. That is why Ive been working closely with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission since 2016 to craft legislation that would provide greater transparency through heightened disclosure, which I believe is necessary to empower voters to hold all of us elected representatives accountable. In the wake of the United State Supreme Courts Citizen United decision, we saw how drastically the voices of average citizens were drowned out in todays political structure, which impedes the democratic process. Transparency has always been one of the fundamental tenets of campaign finance regulation. As candidates for office, we are legally required to disclose who contributes to our campaigns, and so should those who operate in the world of dark money seeking to influence our elections and governmental processes. Unfortunately, politics and not the quest for good public policy has clouded this debate in our state. This year, my proposal, Senate Bill 1500, which would shed a light on the activities of independent expenditure committees, advanced through both houses of the Legislature. Its rapid rise, after being stagnant for several years, was fueled by the debate earlier this year over campaign contributions to certain independent expenditure committees controlled by groups supportive of Gov. Phil Murphy and Senate President Steve Sweeney. However, since then, the governor conditionally vetoed the legislation and the issue has now become a pawn in personal and political gamesmanship. This is bad for public policy and for the institutions upon which our democracy relies. The "politics of personal destruction," a phrase once made popular by former President Bill Clinton, has never been, nor will it ever be, my objective or motivation in crafting public policy. It was not my motivation when I introduced the dark money legislation three years ago, nor is it today. But, we cannot allow personal infighting to stall the progress we have made on this issue. This initiative will not end the disproportionate power that some have over our political process. That will only be achieved by amplifying the voices of everyday citizens through greater participation in our electoral process. However, it could be an important step towards shining the light of transparency on the influence that dark money contributions have over our government, once and for all. Senator Troy Singleton represents the 7th Legislative District. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow us on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and on Facebook at NJ.com Opinion. Get the latest news updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Everything the political left touches, it contorts, redefines or seeks to vanquish. It tries to destroy all it surveys, like a bad infection. They want group thought, and only thought that they approve. On Memorial Day, I watched a rerun of a two-hour presidential candidate forum with Bernie Sanders. Every one of his solutions originated with government intervention, and all would be accomplished by taking money from achievers and handing it to underachievers and non-achievers. Sanders never sought to hold anyone accountable for their own behavior. He just shifted blame. He castigated America as if it were one of the worst countries in the world. It was mostly unfair, and mostly unkind to Americas poor citizens. In two hours, the senator never used the word good to describe his country. He only bellyached about it. It was hard to watch him run down our country. But, Sanders personifies the left. He'll be a great leader for them. Petulant children who see our country as dark and bad will gravitate to him. Most Americans don't see their country that way. They are too busy achieving, making America strong, enjoying its freedom and beauty, and not hating their neighbors. On Memorial Day, it was good to remember these things and those who gave. While Sanders was giving away the farm, I wondered how many in that forum site would give what our soldiers did, as they cheered Bernie's blame America game. Ken Frank, Pitman Resistance futile against Norcross tyrrany? Concerning the South Jersey Times editorial, Dont let Norcross-Murphy feud become toxic to Camden, on May 23: The editorial was great. Now read the thoughts of a Camdenite for 30 years. Ever since President Barack Obama announced a visit to Camden during his administration, local residents had been hopeful to finally be heard. But and there is always a but who was invited to attend? Only those who were designated to smile and repeat written scripts. The public is always left out. The only ordinary people appearing at any special meeting or project announcement are paid municipal workers to represent all residents. Gov. Phil Murphy is welcome to call me, the president of the old Cramer Hill Residents Association, and a few others I know, who will tell him the truth. Even my son advises me to forget being critical of anything because its a done deal. Well, my son is right about Camden becoming Norcrosstown (for South Jersey political power broker George Norcross III). There aren't too many here who are not afraid of him. Even municipal workers and elected officials cringe at his presence. Its sad to think that this country has accepted tyranny. Mary Cortes, Camden Send a letter to the editor of South Jersey Times at sjletters@njadvancemedia.com Mother Nature does not appear to be a Yankees fan because once again, New York will find itself dodging raindrops before (and possibly during) a game this spring. Two weeks ago, the Yankees had two games against the Baltimore Orioles rained out at Yankee Stadium. That forced New York to play a single-admission doubleheader, which the team swept, and schedule a separate-admission doubleheader for August. Gates for tonights game will open on time at 5pm. New York Yankees (@Yankees) May 28, 2019 The Yankees found themselves in another doubleheader this past weekend because of rain in Kansas City. And for what its worth, New York swept that doubleheader as well. The Yankees hope to avoid scheduling another twinbill as they continue their three-game series Tuesday against the San Diego Padres. But the forecast from the National Weather Service is not promising. A rainout Tuesday could force a doubleheader on Wednesday at Yankee Stadium, since the Padres are not scheduled to visit the Bronx again this season. This Afternoon A 30 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 67. Southeast wind around 11 mph. Buy Yankees tickets: StubHub, SeatGeek, PrimeSport, Ticketmaster Tonight Showers and thunderstorms likely before 2am, then a slight chance of showers. Some of the storms could be severe. Mostly cloudy, with a steady temperature around 66. South wind around 8 mph becoming northwest after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. Mike Rosenstein may be reached at mrosenstein@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @rosenstein73. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Seventeen people were shot, leaving five dead and 12 wounded, during a violent Memorial Day weekend in the New Orleans metro area. A woman shot in the arm in the Leonidas neighborhood on Monday (May 27) afternoon was the 17th person wounded or killed by gunfire since Saturday. Among the fatal shooting victims was Reginald Field, the 50-year-old dean of students and a founder of Andrew H. Wilson Charter School in Broadmoor. Also killed were: A man found shot dead in Jefferson Parish, near the Pair of Dice lounge in Metairie early Saturday. 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 weekend shootings began about 10 p.m. Saturday. In the 2300 block of A.P. Tureaud Avenue in the 7th Ward, police said a man approached two people sitting on a the porch of a home and began firing at the man and the woman. The shooting occurred within a block of the gunfire that left Field, the educator, about two hours later. Police said the victims on the porch were each shot once and were hospitalized. Police have not said whether the two shootings were connected. Two people were also injured in stabbings on Sunday, New Orleans Police said. Late Sunday, police said a man 30-year-old man was found at Chantilly Drive and Chef Menteur Highway suffering from multiple stab sounds. Police said the man was in a fight with another man who pulled out a razor knife." Correction: This story has been updated with the correct block number for a shooting on A.P. Tureaud Avenue. A man killed by police gunfire in New Orleans East earlier this month shot at the New Orleans Police Department officers before they fired back, body camera footage released Tuesday (May 28) shows. A family member of the man who viewed the footage last week said it shows he was in the midst of a mental episode leading up to and at the time of the fatal encounter. Donald Davis, Jr., 40, was fatally shot May 17 the 6800 block of Parc Brittany Boulevard on May 17. NOPD Superintendent Shaun Ferguson said officers were called that morning to investigate a report of an aggravated assault at an apartment complexs leasing office when they encountered an armed man. Note: Footage below comes from surveillance video recorded at the apartment complex where the fatal shooting occurred, and the leasing office where an incident prompted the initial call to police. NOPD made available officers body worn camera footage, but NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune is choosing not to publish it because of its graphic nature. Three responding officers, who have all been on the force somewhere between three to five years, fired their weapons during the encounter, according to NOPD. The officers fired a total of 31 rounds, Ferguson said, and Davis fired once. The officers gunfire struck Davis more than once and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Ferguson said investigators did not learn until meeting with Davis family to review the footage that he has a history of diagnosed mental health problems. Body camera video shows a verbal exchange ahead of the gunfire. Ferguson said Davis yelled something to the effect of, Shoot me. I dare you. 1 dead in NOPD officer-involved shooting in New Orleans East Asked if the fatal shooting was the result of a suicide by cop incident, in which someone is believed to intentionally draw police gunfire, Ferguson said he couldnt say for sure but that its something investigators have considered. Davis first cousin, Otra Williams, 40, said she has considered that possibility. One video clip taken from a camera inside the Laguna Creek Apartments leasing office showed Davis inside the office with a .45-caliber gun in his hand, hanging at his side. Someone in the leasing office called police, initiating the police encounter. Davis relatives said the argument was related to the fact that his apartment key broke off in the units door. Broderika Parker, 33, of Slidell, also a first cousin of Davis, viewed video of the fatal encounter last week with Ferguson, NOPD Public Integrity Bureau Chief Arlinda Westbrook and PIB investigators. Her mother and Davis brother also joined, she said. Parker said the video from the leasing office shows Davis was talking out of his head, because he was yelling about his wife -- but Davis was not married. He was in a rage about an hour, said Parker, a first cousin of Davis. Ferguson said Davis threatened someone in the leasing office with a gun a little less than an hour -- 54 minutes -- before police encountered him in the leasing offices parking lot. Officers were initially dispatched to a priority call of an armed man in the leasing office, he said, but when someone from the leasing office called to say Davis had left, the priority was downgraded. Officers arrived at the leasing office nearly an hour after the initial call to take the report. They were getting back into their vehicles in the parking lot, on their way to drive to Davis apartment to interview him, when Davis walked toward them with the same gun. The video shows Davis pointing his gun at officers as they get back out of their vehicles and yelling at them, then lifting his arm and firing a round. Two officers take cover near a black pickup truck that Davis bullet appeared to have struck, then fire their guns toward him until he falls down on his back. The third officer shoots at Davis from the side. Video shows Davis, while on the ground, appears to lift his hand that was still holding the gun. Its unclear if he intended to shoot again. The gunfire subsides as Davis lay on his back, knees slightly bent, but still moving slightly, the footage shows. One of the officers approached Davis and used his foot to move the gun that still lay in or near Davis hand. Parker and Williams both said Davis has struggled with mental health problems most of his life. His mother, Charlene Davis, who died in 2011, lived with schizophrenia and bipolar disease, Williams said. She was unable to raise Davis when he was young, so Davis grew up in foster care in different parts of Louisiana. Parker and Williams also said they believe Davis was molested as a boy. He was not treated for his mental health problems while in foster care as far as she knew, Williams said. At the time of this death, Davis was living off of his disability benefits. This whole thing could have been prevented if he had proper mental health, Williams said. Davis had been living with his mother a few years before she died and found her dead when he returned from a trip to the drug store, Parker and Williams said. Davis wasnt capable of handling it, Williams said, noting he didnt call for first responders when he found her, but called her crying hysterically. Ever since that he went into a deep depression, Williams said. Parker said there were times when Davis was accessible, then he would become withdrawn. He served probation in two separate incidents, in 2011 and 2014, after pleading guilty to various charges including illegally carrying a weapon, attempting to disarm a police officer and possession of marijuana. But Parker said she knew her cousin, and Donald wasnt no killer. He was stressed out his whole life, Parker added. Williams, whose mother Rose Dunbar retired from NOPD in 2008 as a roughly 20-year veteran of the force, said she can sympathize with the officers who fatally shot her cousin because they didnt know what kind of person Davis was when he fired a shot at them. She added, though, that she wishes it could have been handled differently, perhaps with nonlethal force, such as a taser. NOPD policy allows officers to return lethal force with lethal force. 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 This is devastating to us, Williams said. Ferguson said the officers were forced to respond within seconds after Davis began approaching them and fired at the officers, noting they didnt know what he was thinking or the nature of his mental state. Video shows about six or seven seconds passed between when officers got out of the car and when Davis fired the shot, which appeared shatter the window of a the pickup truck that the officers were moving toward to take cover. He didnt give us a chance to say any words and trust us, we wish that he had, Ferguson said. This didnt have to turn out this way but, again, we were left with no other options. No officers were injured during the exchange. In this case, while a life was unfortunately lost, we are confident our officers acted within departmental policies, and while difficult, they did what they had to do, Ferguson said. Parker said she was glad she was able to look at the video to get clear answers about her cousins death, but it was hard to watch," noting the sight of three officers firing on Davis. I wish I could have talked to him, Parker said. Williams has been reflecting, she said, on how she or other relatives could have been a better mentor to Davis, or checked in more. Its so heartbreaking because he didnt deserve to die like that," she said. Ferguson said internal investigators do not believe the officers violated any NOPD policies. The three officers, all 7th District officers who were answering a call for service that day, were temporarily reassigned to administrative desk duty while the investigation continued, per NOPD standard practice. On Tuesday, Ferguson said they would likely be returning to their regular assignments later this week. He identified the officers as Kevin Nguyen, Stephen Jones and Wayne Lewis. The body camera footage was released under a department policy that gives NOPDs leaders and investigators a total of nine days to review and decide when and how to release any pertinent video of officer-involved shootings, a decision that involves the city attorney, district attorneys office and U.S. Attorneys office. Davis is the third man to be killed in an police-involved shooting in New Orleans in 2019 with seven months left in the year. Zonell Williams, 33, was fatally shot by police Jan. 4 after firing at officers in front of a home in the 2300 block of Orleans Avenue. Police were responding to the home that night to a call of an attempted suicide. Reginald Bursey, 32, was fatally shot Feb. 17 by NOPD officers and a Louisiana State Police trooper when he started shooting at officers who approached him near the intersection of Canal Street and Elk Place. Five bystanders were shot, including three Ferguson said investigators determined were struck by errant NOPD gunfire. Police had approached Bursey because he was a suspect in two armed robberies. NOPD internal investigators are still probing possible police involvement leading up to the death of two teenagers who Ferguson said may have been chased by officers in violation of NOPD policy before the car they were in crashed into a Broadmoor beauty salon, setting it on fire, on March 20. A salon customer also was killed, in addition to the teens in the car, Byron Wilson Jr., 16, and Chimelu Collins, 14. There were no fatal or nonfatal officer-involved shootings in 2018, which was the first time that was the case at least in the past several years. The lack of police shootings last year drew commendation from the New Orleans Independent Police Monitors Office. Davis aunt, Lanell Parker, 54, of Chalmette, also viewed the footage with police last week. She said will always remember Davis smile, the way he walked. Hes my nephew, she said. Williams said she can see people suffering from mental health problems when she drives around New Orleans and it makes her think of her cousins struggles, and now his fateful end. She hopes theyre encouraged to get help and that services are available for them. A lot of work needs to be done because Im sure hes not the only person in this city suffering, Williams said. Correction: A quote that was misattributed as a result of an editing error was corrected in this story. Officer Kevin Nguyens last name was incorrectly spelled Ngyen. A woman was shot in the arm in the Leonidas neighborhood Monday (May 27) and a 66-year-old faces aggravated assault and other charges in connection to the shooting, New Orleans police said. Police said Tuesday that officers arrested Alphonse Young and booked him on charges of aggravated assault with a firearm, negligent injuring and illegal use of a weapon. NOPD officers were investigating the scene in the 2300 block of Joliet Street about 3 p.m. Monday. Yellow crime scene tape cordoned off an area near a white Ford pickup truck, which had its driver door opened. Woman shot in Leonidas, New Orleans police say Orleans Parish Magistrate Judge Harry Cantrell on Tuesday morning appointed the Orleans Public Defenders Office to represent Young while he remains in custody of the Orleans Justice Center jail. Cantrell set his bond at $18,000. The judge ordered Young to report to Orleans Criminal District Courts domestic violence court program. The man fatally shot inside the Pair of Dice Lounge in Metairie early Saturday morning (May 25) has been identified as Michael Brown, 49. 16-year-old booked with murder in LaPlace shooting Brown, of Mandeville, died of a gunshot wound to the head, said Mark Bone, chief death investigation for the Jefferson Parish Coroners Office. Jefferson Parish Sheriffs Office detectives have not yet made an arrest in the killing, which occurred at the 24-hour bar, located at 4520 S. Interstate Service Road, Metairie, authorities said. The sheriffs office hasnt released much information about the shooting. Deputies dispatched to the business just after 4 a.m. found Brown already fatally wounded. An employee who did not want to be identified said the shooting occurred near the front door following an argument. No other information was available. Anyone with information about the shooting death of Michael Brown is asked to call the Jefferson Parish Sheriffs Office investigations bureau at 504-364-5300. The public can also call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 877-903-7867. Callers do not have to give their names or testify and can earn a $5,000 reward for information that leads to an indictment. Shake Shack will open a location in New Orleans proper before the end of 2019, according to a press release issued Tuesday (May 28). The restaurant will be in the Canal Place shopping mall at the corner of Canal and North Peters streets. The hamburger chain from New York restaurateur Danny Meyer had already announced that it will open two other Shake Shack restaurants in the New Orleans area, one on Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Metairie and one inside the new airport terminal. The fast-food restaurant from Meyer, who owns New York fine-dining restaurants such as Union Square Cafe, Gramercy Tavern and The Modern, has attracted a near cult-like following with its all-natural Angus beef burgers, chicken sandwiches and griddled flat-top dogs, crispy crinkle-cut fries, hand-spun shakes and craft beer and wine. The first Shake Shack opened in 2001 as a pop-up at Madison Square Park in New York. Shake Shack is now a publicly traded company with more than 100 locations around the world. The Canal Place Shack plans to hire about 70 full-time and part-time employees, according to the press release. The 3,411-square-foot restaurant will feature an outdoor patio. The restaurant will be built using recycled and sustainable materials, with booths made from lumber certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, and table tops will be made from reclaimed bowling alley lanes, according to the release. Brooks Brothers is renovating its shop and will be located in a portion of its original footprint to make way for the restaurant. A lawsuit charging six oil and gas firms with damaging wetlands and land within the Potash Oil & Gas Field in Plaquemines Parish in violation of Louisianas coastal zone management laws should be heard in state 25th Judicial District Court in Plaquemines, a federal judge ruled Tuesday (May 28). The order is the first to return to a state court of 42 lawsuits charging that the historic operation of oil and gas companies in six parishes along Louisianas coastline -- including the construction of service canals, the improper disposal of hazardous wastes and saltwater, and other operations -- caused damage to wetlands that state law requires the companies to either pay compensation for or repair. 42 oil wetland damage suits move back to federal courts Theres a good chance that the opinion issued by U.S. District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman of New Orleans will be followed in returning other suits to state courts that are under consideration by other federal judges in New Orleans. A similar ruling might also follow for the suits that were removed to the federal court in Lafayette. "The governor is pleased that the judge approved the Department of Natural Resources motion, which is also supported by Attorney General Jeff Landry and simply says that these Louisiana claims should be heard in a Louisiana court, said a statement issued by the office of Gov. John Bel Edwards. Edwards, Landry and the state Department of Natural Resources have intervened in all the suits in an effort to assure that any restoration or money coming from an ultimate ruling on behalf of the parishes will be used in compliance with the states coastal Master Plan. Todays ruling by Judge Feldman clears the way for an appeal to the Fifth Circuit, which is the next step in legal proceedings that will continue for the foreseeable future, said Gifford Briggs, President of the Louisiana Oil & Gas Association. These unproductive lawsuits put the interests of the plaintiffs lawyers over the people of Louisiana and divert time and resources away from activities that actually support the economic and environmental resiliency of our coast. Plaquemines wins document access in oil industry damage suit Todays ruling is another procedural step in the judicial process, which unfortunately takes time and resources away from what could be collaborative efforts working towards real solutions for our coast, said Tyler Gray, president and general counsel of the Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil & Gas Association, in a statement. As weve learned from the Levee Board lawsuit and many years of litigation involving this case, the solutions to securing our coast will not be found in the courtroom. Louisiana oil and natural gas companies recognize our working coast is an invaluable cultural, economic and environmental asset. For decades our member companies have voluntarily invested millions of dollars in restoration and hurricane protection projects and spent countless hours advocating for major federal funding opportunities like GOMESA to help make our coastal communities safer and stronger," he said The Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) provides Louisiana, Texas, Alabama and Mississippi with a share of revenue paid by oil and gas companies to the federal government to extract and sell oil and gas from the Gulf of Mexico. Partnering with Louisianas oil and natural gas industry is the path to protecting Louisianas working coast. Nothing good comes from lawsuits, said a statement issued by the Grow Louisiana Coalition, an organization supporting oil and gas development. "In places like Port Fourchon and other parishes across south Louisiana, the industry is working on large-scale, innovative ideas that can increase commerce, while protecting infrastructure and building up the working coast. Industry, science and communities are coming together to make things happen. The courtroom should not be viewed as a potential income stream for parishes and the state," the coalition statement said. "On the contrary, these years-long efforts take critical time and resources away from the industrys support of Louisianas coastal efforts, which have been underway for decades. In issuing his decision, Feldman also granted the oil and gas firms their request to appeal his decision to the 5th Circuit appeals court. However, the parish suit might be restarted in state court while that appeal is under way, if they do not also request a stay halting action at the state level until the appeal is decided, said John Carmouche, lead attorney for the parishes. Finally, Louisianas coastal claims will be tried in Plaquemines Parish, where real and provable damages occurred, Carmouche said. He said that there have not been any discussions or negotiations with the oil and gas firms in this suit or the other suits. We are going to move towards trial now, but the parishes, as always, have been open to discussing a resolution of the provable damages caused by the oil and gas industry, he said. The lawsuits had been filed in state courts in Plaquemines, Jefferson, St. Bernard, St. John the Baptist, Vermilion and Cameron parishes between 2012 and 2017. All of those suits were filed by the Talbot, Carmouche and Marcello law firm of Baton Rouge on behalf of parish governments. Seven Jefferson and 14 Plaquemines suits were removed to federal court in New Orleans and returned to state courts for action in 2017. In May 2018, those 42 suits were removed to federal courts in New Orleans and Lafayette by the oil and gas company defendants, who contend that they all include issues involving federal law that should properly be heard in federal courts. A 43rd lawsuit filed by New Orleans against oil and gas companies, using other attorneys, also was recently removed to federal court. The second removal of the suits to federal courts occurred just a few months before the first case was scheduled to be heard in Plaquemines Parish. An attempt to have all the cases considered by a single federal judge was quashed in July 2018 by a national panel of judges that governs multi-district litigation. Parish oil damage lawsuits won't be consolidated before one judge 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 Attorneys representing the oil and gas firms said a report filed in Plaquemines state court in 2018 in advance of the courtroom trial in the first case, Plaquemines vs. Rozel, et. al., showed that many of the alleged violations actually occurred during or before World War II, a period when federal laws governed oil and gas exploration in an attempt to increase production for the war effort while also limiting use of steel and other scarce wartime resources. That was long before the state Legislature passed the State and Local Coastal Resources Management Act of 1978, which went into effect in 1980 and regulates development operations in the states official coastal zone. Feldman ruled it was simply too late in the legal process during a second removal attempt to claim the information concerning the history of oil and gas operations before and during World War II included in the Rozel report was new. Although the defendants suggest that the Rozel Report presents new theories of bad faith and changed impacts, these expert opinions simply put a finer point on what the plaintiffs already placed at issue: whether the defendants activities in these operational areas were lawfully commenced prior to (the state laws) enactment, Feldman wrote. If so, then come 1980 (when the new law requiring coastal permits went into effect), no permit was required; if not, then a coastal use permit was required once (the state law) became effective. And he said other papers filed in the case before that report also pointed to inquiries into conduct as far back as before and during World War II. Feldman also found that the oil and gas companies were not acting under the authority of a federal officer in operating their facilities and exploration activities during and before the war, which the companies contended gave them the right to be heard in federal court. Merely being subject to federal regulation will not suffice to bring private action within the scope of the (Federal Officer Removal statute they cited); rather, oily private parties that are (often, contractually) obligated or authorized to act with or for {federal officers or agents} in affirmatively executing duties under federal law are sufficiently acting under federal control, he said. Simply complying with a regulatory order, even a highly complex order, was not enough, he said. And he also dismissed the companies broader argument that the federal governments wartime regulation of oil and gas production aimed at increasing production while reducing use of steel should show the industrys actions under that regulatory scheme should be heard in federal court, and not in state court. The court finds that the difference between wartime regulations and other types of administrative regulation is simply one of degree, not kind, he said. And unlike past lawsuits involving companies required under federal contract to install asbestos on ships or to manufacture Agent Orange for use during the Vietnam War, the regulations cited by the oil and gas companies provide mere oversight. And Feldman agreed with attorneys for the parish that their lawsuit is aimed at the failure of the companies to follow the requirements of the coastal zone law. The Rozel report said that in the Bayou Gentilly oil field, oil and gas operations that followed existing laws before the coastal zone law was passed would be exempt and would not require a permit under the new law, unless activities changed after 1980 and negated the initial exempt status. Examples include continued operations of canals without seeking a permit for modification and continued discharge of produced water, the ruling said. And the report also said that certain uses that began before 1980 were not exempt from the new law because they were not legally commenced or not commenced in good faith, and in such cases, a coastal zone permit would have been required. That might include waste pits and salt discharges that occurred before 1980 in violation of then existing laws. Maintenance dredging and the plugging and abandoning of wells after 1980 were listed as examples of actions requiring permits, and in some cases, failing to fully disclose cumulative impacts in applications for coastal use permits seeking to dredge or maintain canals could also be a violation. The oil and gas companies argued that based on wartime regulations and directives, they vertically drilled wells, spaced wells, used earthen pits, discharged produced water and dredged canals, all under the color of federal office, and thus should not be liable for those actions. But Feldman wrote that just because the federal government had the power to exercise control over those actions during the war doesnt establish that that power was exercised. There were detailed exceptions allowed and operators could have sought relief, he wrote. Feldman said the oil and gas firms also failed to show that federal jurisdiction outweighs the rights of plaintiffs to have a case heard under state law. Theres a four-part test that has been fashioned for determining federal jurisdiction by the U.S. Supreme court: only if a federal issue is necessarily raised, actually disputed, substantial, or capable of resolution in federal court without disrupting the federal-state balance approved by Congress. In this case, Feldman said, the parish carefully restricted its claims in the wording of its original lawsuit to only include state law and to specifically exclude a variety of federal laws, such as the Clean Water Act, that might also govern the oil and gas companies actions. And while the oil and gas plaintiffs cited a U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals decision confirming that a similar lawsuit against oil and gas interests by the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-East did fall under federal law and belonged in federal court, Feldman said that unlike the limitations in the parish suit, the levee authority suit specifically cited violations involving three federal laws in seeking damages and never pointed to any specific Louisiana statutes or regulations. Mark Schleifstein covers the environment and is a leader of the Louisiana Coastal Reporting Team for NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. Email: mschleifstein@nola.com. Facebook: Mark Schleifstein and Louisiana Coastal Watch. Twitter: MSchleifstein. State health officials have identified a case of pertussis, more commonly known as whooping cough, at the Audubon Charter Schools Broadway Campus, a spokesman for the Louisiana Department of Health confirmed on Tuesday (May 28). Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can produce uncontrollable coughing, making it hard to breathe. It can affect people of all ages but can be especially serious or deadly for infants, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The school first informed parents about a confirmed case of pertussis in the school in an online May 27 notification, three days before Audubons last day of school on May 30. A copy of the notification was sent to NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune by a parent from the school. A school spokeswoman Tuesday stated there is only one confirmed case of whooping cough at the Broadway Campus. Audubon sent out a notice to families and to be safe performed a deep cleaning of its facilities yesterday evening, according to school spokeswoman Heather Harper. State health officials investigating whooping cough cases at Metairie Park Country Day School Audubon Charter enrolls 77 students in preschool through third grade at its 428 Broadway Street campus. The B-rated schools remaining 796 students in grades four through eighth are enrolled at the 1111 Milan Street campus in Uptown New Orleans. 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 Neither the school nor the state Health Department disclosed the students grade or classroom. The case of pertussis at Audubon comes more than a week after state health officials identified five potential cases of pertussis among vaccinated students at Metairie Park Country Day School. In that case, school officials confirmed in a May 15 letter sent to parents of children in the elementary school that all four cases of pertussis were reported in one particular classroom that had a mix of 3rd and 4th-graders. Two more potential cases in the 3rd and 7th grade were identified a day later, according to another letter sent on Thursday (May 16). One of the cases was ultimately determined not to be whooping cough. The CDC recommends the vaccine at 2, 4 and 6 months, and at 15 through 18 months of age, followed by a third course between ages 4 and 6. That is followed by a booster shot for 11-year-olds. But even vaccinated children and adults can be susceptible to the illness. NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune Health reporter Maria Clark contributed to this article. Wilborn P. Nobles III is an education reporter based in New Orleans. He can be reached at wnobles@nola.com or on Twitter at @WilNobles. The executive director of the Louisiana Republican Party has pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor battery charge, according to a report by WDSU News. NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune reported in March that Andrew Bautsch was arrested March 16 at the Pontchartrain Hotel in New Orleans after he was accused of shoving a police officer. Bautsch, 31, had gotten married a few hours before, was staying at the hotel that night and had been at the Hot Tin bar on its rooftop, according to two people who attended the wedding. The officer involved in the incident and the arresting officer were with the Orleans Levee District Police, according to the New Orleans Police Department in March. The officers description of events said Bautsch refused to enter an elevator when asked by the officer and manager of the establishment, which was not named in arrest records. The officer then escorted Bautsch to the elevator, at which point Bautsch shoved the officer and resisted arrest, according to the officers own account of what happened. Whoever commits a simple battery in Louisiana faces up to six months behind bars and a $1,000 fine, according to state law. WDSU reported Bautsch was credited with time served when he pleaded guilty last week. Bautschs lawyer also told WDSU the offense can be expunged from Bautschs record within 60 days. Watch the full story at WDSUs website. Louisiana GOP director arrested after his wedding in New Orleans; court records say he shoved a police officer The St. Bernard Parish Council agreed to a $1 million settlement last week to end a lawsuit accusing the parish of once again engaging in discriminatory housing policies by obstructing plans for two small group homes for disabled teenagers. This comes just five years after St. Bernard agreed to pay $1.8 million to settle a lawsuit over a 2006 ordinance that prohibited property owners from renting their single-family homes to tenants unrelated to them by blood. The Fair Housing Action Center said a blood-kin ordinance in a parish that is about 90 percent white would effectively freeze everybody else out of the rental market. That followed a 2013 settlement that cost the parish $2.6 million in damages and attorney fees to resolve a Department of Justice lawsuit that accused the parish of violating the Fair Housing Act by "engaging in a multi-year campaign to limit rental housing opportunities for African-Americans in the parish." Its not just Bishops absences that are inexcusable That's about $5.5 million in legal payouts that can't be used for other parish needs. And even if much of that money comes from insurance, it's still a waste of time and resources for no benefit. How long will it take before St. Bernard's elected officials learn that they can't keep out people they don't think belong in their communities, in these cases, minorities and children with disabilities? Maybe it's part of a strategy to make the parish seem so mean and spiteful that no one from the outside would ever think of moving there. In the most recent travesty, parish leaders changed zoning laws to prevent Dionna Richardson from starting a group home for disabled teenagers in Violet and Cathy Moore from moving ahead with a similar group home in Chalmette. Richardson said she expected some pushback when she tried to start a group home for disabled teenagers in 2015 at a house in Violet. Richardson, who grew up in the parish, said she had expected some resistance but was taken aback by the intensity of the opposition. The suit quotes St. Bernard Councilman Nathan J. Gorbatys claim that officials were just responding to residents opposition. Gorbaty reportedly said at a Sept. 20, 2016, meeting that when residents come to speak about it, we really take that to heart because it shows that they care about it. Youd feel the same way about whats infiltrating into your neighborhood. Infiltrating? Richardson and Moore were legally and openly seeking approval to house five youths in a 24-hour setting with an on-site psychologist, hoping to fill a dire need for facilities that provide a residential setting for the benefit of the mentally disabled and their families. I was thinking at the very beginning, once they learned what they were doing was not right, that at some point they would basically step back and let us open, Richardson told The Advocate. The officials, however, never came to their senses or recovered their basic decency even as the Parish Council agreed in a closed session May 21 to sign off on the settlement with the two women and the U.S. Department of Justice. The plaintiffs lawyers told The Advocate it includes a $975,000 payout to the two would-be operators for damages and attorneys fees, as well as $60,000 in civil penalties to the federal government. It also requires the parish to allow Richardson and Moore to, at long last, be allowed to open their businesses. In other words, to follow the law. The settlement does not require the parish government to admit to any violations of federal disability or housing law although the public record is clear on what happened. Its the most obvious case of discrimination I have ever seen in my life, Eve Hill, a veteran disability-rights attorney in Washington, D.C., who represents the women, told the newspaper. The customers always write Enforcing a law that doesnt exist," she said. "Creating a law thats discriminatory. Not complying with the federal law. Just unrepentant discrimination. Its We dont want your kids. To which I respond: 'These are your kids.' Thats a strong message even without the $1 million settlement attached. Is anyone on the St. Bernard Parish Council listening? Tim Morris is a columnist on the Latitude team at NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. Latitude is a place to share opinions about the challenges facing Louisiana. Follow @LatitudeNOLA on Facebook and Twitter. Write to Tim at tmorris@nola.com. Colin Bortmess celebrated a milestone this weekend, but his faith has bigger things in store for him. Bortmess, 18, is a native of Rochester, Illinois, and he moved to Council Bluffs before his sophomore year. He ended his high school career at Lewis Central High School, and he said he couldnt be happier with his time spent as a member of the Titan family. I feel so good about the experience, he said. Everyone has been so awesome, friendly and helpful. I wouldnt trade the memories for anything. Bortmess and the rest fo L.C.s Class of 2019 crossed the Mid-America Center stage to receive their diplomas Sunday. Looking back at his high school journey, Bortmess said it was challenging, but fun, and he cant believe hes about to start a new journey as an adult. Its very surreal, he said. Its surreal to think that this chapters over and Im moving on to a new part of life. Bortmess plans on majoring in worship ministry at Hope International University in California. He said he felt his calling last summer and recently committed to spending his life spreading the word of God. He said he wants to become a minister at any church that needs him, saying he will follow his calling wherever it leads him. Bortmess has a lot work ahead of him, but he is taking some time to relax and enjoy his accomplishments over the summer. Before he heads to sunny California hell be heading to the east coast to enjoy an equally-sunny Orlando trip with the L.C. fine arts department. Fourteen months after its launch, the Council Bluffs Community School Districts Early College Academy is enjoying success. The program provides an opportunity for high school students who qualify to earn a college degree or certificate at Iowa Western Community College during their junior and senior years while completing their high school diplomas. This spring, 10 students graduated four with associate degrees and six with certificates or diplomas, according to coordinator Spencer Mathews. Im really proud of them especially the four who received an entire associate degree, he said. Its a real testament to their hard work and dedication. These are some of the most motivated students we have in the district. We could not be more pleased with the success of our students and the partnership with Iowa Western Community College to bring this program to life for our students, Superintendent Vickie Murillo said. The students in this first full year of ECA reinforced that our high school students can excel at college coursework and are motivated to earn another degree or certification along with their high school diploma. Many of the students have done well academically, Mathews said. Each semester this year, eight of the 35 students (25 juniors and 10 seniors) got straight As. Six of the students maintained a 4.0 grade-point average for the whole year. Students are responding to the opportunity, Murillo said. We had over 60 students apply (for next year) and were able to select 26 students, she said. We are excited about the interest students have in this opportunity to gain this college experience at no cost while in high school. Students must apply for admission to the ECA during their sophomore years and begin during their junior years. Selection is based on GPA, credits in advanced placement and concurrent-credit classes, an essay, attendance, teacher references and an interview. The student has to be the right combination of aptitude and motivation, Mathews said in a previous interview. Establishing the program was one of Murillos three-year goals after she came to the district and held her first round of community meetings in 2017. It was launched in March 2018. Students pay a one-time application fee of $35 but get free tuition, books and meals. The school district pays a reduced tuition rate on behalf of the students and a textbook fee for each course enrollment. The Iowa Department of Education reimburses the district for part of the expense, so the actual cost to the district is $29 per credit hour for career and technical courses and $65 per credit hour for arts and sciences courses, according to Corey Vorthmann, chief academic officer. These figures are based on the 2018-19 rates. The rates for 2019-20 were not yet available on Friday. It can mean a savings of tens of thousands of dollars for students and their families, Mathews said. In some cases, it might be the difference between having the opportunity to attend college and not being able to afford it. That will have an impact on the community, as well as the students. I also think they get another opportunity to get out of their comfort zone and experience some different challenges so they are academically, emotionally and socially more prepared when they go to get that four-year degree, he said. The 25 students who just completed their first year in the program will continue next year, when 26 new juniors will join them, pushing ECA enrollment to 51. 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. When your child complains of a sore throat, sore ear or other common ailment, he or she is speaking Dr. Kelli Rudmans language. She is an otolaryngologist who practices at Boys Town Ear, Nose and Throat clinics in Council Bluffs and Omaha. The Council Bluffs clinic is located at 320 McKenzie Ave., Suite 202. After practicing for about six years, Rudman is enjoying her profession. Simply put, I get to help people, she said in an email message. Plus, I work with fantastic people, and Boys Town is a great place to be a doctor. Rudman was born and raised in Omaha. A couple of factors influenced her career choice. Around the time I was in high school, some family members had some medical issues, she said. They were treated with kindness and compassion by their doctors, and that experience stuck with me. Rudman studied microbiology in college, where she roomed with her two best friends. We almost collectively decided we would go to medical school, she said. It made the hours of studying that much easier and today, each of us is a doctor in a different specialty. It was during her residency that Rudman chose otolaryngology as her area. In medical school, we were exposed to many different specialties to help us select a residency program (for) after we graduated, she said. I spent several weeks with the ENT department and loved it. On a personal level, I found the ENT physicians had personalities a lot like mine. Professionally, I get the perfect mix of one-on-one time with patients in a clinical setting, combined with the surgical cases we do in the operating room. Surgeries an otolaryngologist performs include procedures like a tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy and sinus surgery, according to boystownhospital.org website. Unlike some midwesterners, Rudman had no desire to settle far away from home. I always knew I wanted to stay in the Midwest, and Omaha is home, she said. I went to college in Kansas, medical school at University of Nebraska Medical Center and trained in Wisconsin at Medical College of Wisconsin. When this opportunity came along, it seemed like a perfect fit, and it has turned out that way. Rudman and her husband enjoy traveling and spending time with their four children a 6-year-old daughter and three 4-year-old sons who are triplets. In the summer, we go to our neighborhood pool about seven days a week, she 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. Volunteers play a huge role in the success of CHI Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs succeeding in its mission. Heading up that task since June of 2018 is Volunteer Services Manager Lisa Gronstal. Gronstal is certainly no stranger to the hospitals volunteer program, having volunteered at Mercy for a dozen years before moving up to the full-time position. A native of Franklin Grove, Illinois, Gronstal attended Illinois State University at Bloomington where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in finance. Following her graduation from college, Gronstal spent the next 10 years as a U.S. Treasury bank examiner. It was during her employment as a bank examiner in Illinois that she met her husband, Matt, also a bank examiner at the time. The couple moved to Council Bluffs when Matt, now president of Availa Bank, accepted a banking position here. Initially a stay-at-home mom, Lisa Gronstal eventually accepted a position in the St. Albert School Districts music department, a position she held for six years. In addition to her 12 years as a Mercy Hospital volunteer, Lisa was a member and officer of the hospitals guild. As a team, Matt and Lisa chaired the Mercy Heritage Award event in 2006. As volunteer services manager she supervises a group of more than 100 volunteers and supports a number of special projects including Mercys luminary project, the annual Mercy Easter egg hunt, the Mercy Gives Back program, flower sales and book sales. Shes also helped with the Mercy Heritage Dinner and awards presentation and, this year, the hospitals flood relief efforts. Gronstal also serves as operations director of the guilds gift shop located in the hospital lobby area. Sales in the gift shop allow the guild to donate $2,000 a month for patient assistance. The guild was also able to donate $65,000 to help with a Mercy project to remodel the surgery waiting area. Gronstal said the primary focus of her position is growing the number of volunteers who assist hospital staff members, hospital patients and hospital visitors. Shes also working to increase the number of teens who volunteer at the hospital. The teen program not only provides teens with an opportunity to experience the rewards of volunteering, but also an opportunity to experience various elements of health care for those who might be considering a health care career. Gronstal said Mercy is also the first area hospital to partner with Goodwill Industries, pairing six challenged teens with employees of the hospitals environmental services department. She said the goal is to provide those teens with skills they can utilize in the job market. In addition to her position at the hospital, Gronstal also serves on the Bridges Out of Poverty steering and executive committee and the Wings of Hope Board of Directors. Currently available figures suggest there are 6,000 people in Council Bluffs living in poverty, and the goal locally is to help lift half of those individuals out of poverty through participation in the Bridges Out of Poverty program. Wings of Hope provides services for people with cancer as well as their family members. The goal is to provide emotional support and guidance for people, family members, and health professionals as they journey through their cancer experiences. North Augusta, SC (29841) Today Partly cloudy this morning, then becoming cloudy during the afternoon. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 78F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Partly to mostly cloudy with scattered showers and thunderstorms developing overnight. Low near 70F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%. 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. On 18 June 2019, as part of the Speaker Series US Foreign Policy in the 21st Century: Challenges and Opportunities, that is funded by the US Embassy in Bern, William A. Carter discussed US-China Strategic Competition in the Digital Domain. Mr. Carter explored the various aspects of the US-Chinese digital relationship, including cyber, artificial intelligence, and 5G. He noted the extent to which the two economies are deeply interlinked, as well as the numerous areas of friction. He expressed concern about the relationship, but also voiced overall optimism about the role of technology in democracies, not least when it comes to fostering economic growth. Four new members were inducted Tuesday into the Northwest Indiana Business & Industry Hall of Fame, and one of the Region's most prominent companies was named Enterprise of the Year. The Hall of Fame, sponsored by The Times Media Co. and InBusiness magazine, welcomed attorney Kenneth Allen, realtor Ron McColly, restaurateur Benito Gamba, and food industry executive David Van Eekeren as its newest members, and U.S. Steel as the 2019 class' Enterprise of the Year. Introducing the inductees, The Times Media Co. Publisher Chris White said their induction was "not only because they're successful in their fields, but also because they're innovators and mentors." "They've shown a commitment to service within the Region," he continued. "They've committed generously of themselves and they've demonstrated a visionary outlook for Northwest Indiana." Kenneth J. Allen opened his law firm in Valparaiso 25 years ago, practicing personal injury and wrongful death litigation. The Kenneth J. Allen Law Group now has three offices in Indiana and three in Illinois, with 13 full-time lawyers and two part-time. If you're planning to go out to eat a casual meal with a group of friends or family members who all have quite different tastes, don't hesitat CHICAGO A Portage man was killed and two others were wounded early Monday in a shooting on Chicago's Northwest Side. Alejandro Aguado, 22, of Portage, a 20-year-old man and a 19-year-old woman, both of Chicago, were walking on The 606 Trail in the 1800 block of North Monticello Avenue about 12:10 a.m. when they were approached by three men, according to the Cook County medical examiner's office and Chicago police. The men asked Aguado and his friends their gang affiliation, then displayed guns and fired shots, police said. Aguado was shot in the chest and back and taken to Norwegian American Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 12:25 a.m., Chicago police said. The 20-year-old man was shot in the lower backside and was taken to John Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, where he was in stable condition, police said. The 19-year-old woman was shot in the stomach and taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where she was was in critical condition, police said. The three shooters ran east and were not located, police said. None of the victims appear to be known by police. Area North detectives were investigating. "On the issue of time in our lives, each of us only has so much of it," Visclosky said, sharing updates of his work in Congress to improve veterans' access to medical records when they return from war. "Each veteran here, I want to thank each of you for giving us a portion of your time that you can never get back." Martin Dzieglowicz, master of ceremonies for the Monday service, noted a physical representation of this. By next Memorial Day, he said, a new monument honoring women service members would be erected in Stoney Run County Park, near the current memorial that names each of the 261 Lake County servicemen killed in the Vietnam War in granite stone. "They were infiltrating us all over and they did one heck of a job," Dzieglowicz said of women service members. Outside the Porter County Museum, or PoCo Muse, in Valparaiso, Civil War reenactors of the 9th Indiana Volunteer Infantry Regiment saluted Memorial Day by educating passersby on the history of Porter County's Civil War heroes with a replica recruitment camp on the museum's front lawn. The rows upon rows of uniform white markers, each bearing a persons name, which make up the quiet architecture of Section 21, Arlington Cemetery, and all American national cemeteries, make up individual answers to the perpetual question of how to measure the cost of war. Between the American Revolution in 1775 and the Persian Gulf War in 1991, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that there have been approximately 651,031 battle deaths alone. Of U.S. military men and women killed in action since October 2001, there have been 5,429, according to the Department of Defense. There are thousands upon thousands more who have died as a result of battlefield injuries, or have died as captured POWS, or have gone missing. But there are also thousands whove survived their severe wounds. Since the initiation of the national cemetery system in response to the Civil War, more and more soldiers are surviving the battlefield thanks to innovations in combat medicine aided by advances in transportation and technology. RIO DE JANEIRO Violent clashes among rival drug factions in several prisons in the northern Brazilian state of Amazonas have killed at least 55 people, corrections officials said on Monday. The outbreak of violence, which began on Sunday, is the latest in a state where drug gangs have waged a vicious battle for supremacy as smuggling routes that run along northern Brazil have become increasingly profitable. The bloodshed comes as the Brazilian government is taking steps to assert greater control of the countrys chronically overcrowded and underfunded prisons, where drug kingpins have long managed to run their trade from behind bars with relative ease. KABUL, Afghanistan Attacks on Afghan schools tripled from 2017 to 2018, a Unicef report said Tuesday, as the Taliban and other extremist groups in Afghanistan continue to wage a campaign of violence against so-called softer targets, far from the battlefield. The number of attacks increased to 192 from 68, a surge not seen since 2015, according to the report by the United Nations agency for children. The number of children not attending school also increased last year for the first time since 2002. It is yet another sign of the deteriorating security situation across Afghanistan. To some Afghans, the report offered concrete evidence that the repressive Taliban regime is again on the rise, even as the United States attempts to negotiate a peace settlement with the group. Nooria Nazhat, a spokeswoman for the ministry of education, said the government did not have any specific statistics to back up the Unicef report. But she added: Every week we have a report about schools getting attacked in Afghanistan. KAWASAKI, Japan A man stabbed at least 20 people, including 18 schoolchildren waiting at a bus stop, before fatally stabbing himself Tuesday morning, according to the school the children attended. One of the schoolchildren and a 39-year-old man died in the attack, in a suburb southwest of Tokyo. NHK, Japans public broadcaster, reported that all the children were girls. Citing the Kanagawa prefectural police, NHK named the girl who died as Hanako Kuribayashi, 11. The man who was killed was identified by the broadcaster as Satoshi Oyama, 39, a father and an official in the Foreign Ministry. The attacker, identified by NHK as Ryuichi Iwasaki, 51, stabbed himself in the neck and subsequently died, officials said. The attack took place in Noborito-Shinmachi town in Kawasaki City. Lonnie G. Bunch III, the museum leader who opened the Smithsonians National Museum of African American History and Culture to critical applause and huge crowds, will serve as the next secretary of the entire Smithsonian, its most senior position. Mr. Bunch, 66, will be the first historian and the first African-American to oversee the Smithsonians 19 museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park and research centers. He will take over on June 16, the Smithsonian announced Tuesday. Mr. Bunch, who began his career in 1978 at the Smithsonians Air and Space Museum, said in an interview that, as the Smithsonianss 14th secretary, he hoped to figure out how to make the institution more effective in the digital space so that it could reach a broader audience than those who might have the time to visit Washington. I want to help it transform America, he said. As founding director of the African-American museum, Mr. Bunch led a decade-long effort to create a space that would recognize the achievements of black Americans, as well as the horrors of slavery and the struggle for civil rights. It fittingly opened on the National Mall in September 2016 at a ceremony at which President Barack Obama spoke. Whats on TV RUNNING WITH BETO (2019) 8 p.m. on HBO; stream on HBO platforms. As the United States looks ahead toward the 2020 presidential election, this new documentary looks back at 2018, when the Texas Democrat Beto ORourke burst onto the political scene to challenge the Republican incumbent Ted Cruz for his seat in the Senate. (Cruz came out on top in a narrow victory.) Directed by David Modigliani, this fly-on-the-wall film follows ORourke for a year as he leads a grass-roots campaign, visits all 254 counties in the state and welcomes voters into his life with quirky social media strategies. The Times critic James Poniewozik wrote that the documentary is an example of the very of-the-moment challenge of running for office in the Trump era. To pitch yourself as a president, you must first prove yourself as a show. 30 FOR 30: QUALIFIED 8 p.m. on ESPN. The French driver Simon Pagenaud gulped down some ice-cold milk after winning the 103rd Indianapolis 500 this past weekend. As fans celebrate his dramatic victory, this new documentary highlights the career of Janet Guthrie, a driver who in 1977 became the first woman to qualify for and compete in the race. Despite facing the ire of drivers who said she had no place in a male-dominated sport, Guthrie kept her eyes on the prize, and finished ninth in the Indy 500 in 1978. Edmund Morris, who upended the conventions of biography when he inserted himself into his book on Ronald Reagan, died on Friday. Here are our reviews of his books, plus some of his writing for The Times. The Times on Morris THE RISE OF THEODORE ROOSEVELT This Pulitzer Prize winner is the first of Morriss trilogy of biographies about Roosevelt. We get to see the many contradictory sides of Theodore Roosevelt, our reviewer wrote. Yet because Mr. Morris keeps his distances and submerges his picture of Roosevelt in carefully documented fact, his portrait remains alive and believable, and never deteriorates into mere thesis. THEODORE REX The second installment in Morriss Roosevelt trilogy begins at the moment of William McKinleys assassination and covers Roosevelts seven and a half years in the White House. Unlike many of his peers, Morris writes with a breezy verve that makes the pages fly, and that perfectly suits his subject, our reviewer wrote. [Read what another reviewer had to say about Theodore Rex.] COLONEL ROOSEVELT Morris ended his trilogy with the last 10 years of Roosevelts life, including his travels through Africa after leaving office. Morris has addressed the toughest and most frustrating part of Roosevelts life with the same care and precision that he brought to the two earlier installments, our reviewer wrote, adding: And if this story of a lifetime is his own lifes work, he has reason to be immensely proud. LAST DAY By Domenica Ruta Domenica Rutas first novel, Last Day, celebrates the end of the world, an international doomsday holiday that begins on May 27. Like the pagans of old during an eclipse, no one expects to survive the night. People burn their favorite things, settle debts and make dramatic amends, from Im sorry graffiti to full-page apologies in The New York Times. Oddly enough, no one decides to do much worse than get drunk no one stabs his mother-in-law, no one drives over a cliff and no one machine-guns the White House. For 15-year-old Sarah, Last Day is a dramatic holiday of self-inflicted upheaval drawn out into a public performance. A sworn asexual, she has a serious crush on Kurt, a 40-something tattoo artist, and they go off to build a bonfire at the beach. Like the beginning of a joke, a trio of astronauts an American, a Russian and a Japanese billionaire celebrate Last Day from space. Bear, the American, believes everything is A-O.K.; vodka-swilling Svec swears he has never vomited in space; and Yukis attention is completely absorbed by his twin on earth, symbolized by his devotion to a two-headed mouse pup. The opening flits among the characters, but once the mentally ill but well-meaning Karen shows up, the novel ignites. Ruta, who is also the author of a best-selling memoir, With or Without You, deeply sympathizes with the damaged and their worlds. Karen lives in a group home with Bears younger sister, who has Down syndrome, but the bond between them, like that of others in the book, is inconsequential, suggesting that our network of associations, in the end, does not matter. Despite the heavy subject matter, comic moments leaven the book. The astronauts lasso corn puffs with dental floss and record their cholesterol readings on graphs shaped like penises in the color of their countrys flags. Oh, the places youll go now or never! the library display reads. The mall urges customers to Buy now before its too late, and Italians believe anyone who doesnt change his sheets on Last Day will be impotent for a year. MONEYLAND The Inside Story of the Crooks and Kleptocrats Who Rule the World By Oliver Bullough During the federal trial of Donald Trumps former campaign manager Paul Manafort, prosecutors extensively detailed his lavish spending on clothing, listing multiple purchases that included an $18,000 suede coat, pairs of trousers at $2,800 each and total spending of nearly $1 million at one Manhattan store over a multiyear period. By enumerating these purchases, the prosecutors hoped to present a picture of unbridled greed to support their portrait of corruption and tax evasion. Though they were scolded by the judge, who snapped, We dont convict people because they have a lot of money and throw it around, they did win the case; Manafort was ultimately sentenced to seven years in jail. For many, the case was a leading indicator of the corruption surrounding Donald Trump, but for the British journalist Oliver Bullough, it is simply one more glimpse into a world he calls Moneyland, a shadow system of trillions of dollars of hidden assets that transcends nations, feeds corruption and quietly but effectively is impoverishing millions, undermining democracy, helping dictators as they loot their countries. After years of exhaustive investigative research for the book he also calls Moneyland, Bullough offers not just a bill of particulars spanning continents but a polemic about the dangers of a global cancer that must be exposed and combated. In dizzying detail, Bullough takes us on a tour of Moneyland, a place one part defined by geography and several parts more by demography. The physical havens of Moneyland are the familiar offshore tax shelters like the Isle of Jersey, Switzerland (until recently) and the Cayman Islands, as well as less familiar ones like Nevis, where Bullough finds nondescript buildings housing 18,000 corporations and very few actual people. The neighboring island of St. Kitts has its own brisk business of selling passports for tens of thousands of dollars a pop. There are also domestic havens, ranging from the trust-friendly city of Reno, Nev., to the corporation-friendly state of Delaware. And of course there is the luxury real estate of London, with scores of mansions in Mayfair, and New York, with sparkling towers whose apartments sell for tens of millions of dollars to Ukrainian and Russian billionaires and Greek and Chinese and Brazilian and American ones dwellings with few actual occupants. By 1926, Holmes was on the cover of Time, hailed as the leading judge of the age. What happened in the meantime to make Holmes into a legend may be summarized in two words: Felix Frankfurter. As a young Progressive government lawyer and then as a Harvard law professor, Frankfurter wanted a symbol who would embody rejection of the then-libertarian-conservative Supreme Court majority. Holmes, the Boston Brahmin war veteran with the military mustache, was a hero from central casting and usefully different from nearly all Frankfurters left-wing allies, like the Jewish Progressive Louis Brandeis, who would ultimately join Holmes on the court. The image Frankfurter and others created is captured in the title of a popular Holmes biography written by Catherine Drinker Bowen and published in 1944: Yankee From Olympus. Frankfurter courted Holmes, cajoled him and surrounded him with brilliant young lawyers who told him he was the greatest American judge ever, and maybe in the whole Anglo-American legal tradition. Holmes responded to the treatment with a steadily increasing line of important opinions that advanced Progressive causes, all the while eschewing Progressive beliefs. But if Frankfurters goals in lionizing Holmes are easy to discern, the same is not true of Budianskys biography, which self-consciously rejects critical studies of the justice over the past 40 years in favor of a worship that can verge on apologetics. This Holmes is in any event a fighter. Budiansky, a prolific historian and journalist, devotes more than 50 pages to Holmess Civil War career, including diagrams of battlefield movements. This material has not been dealt with in the same detail in previous biographies. These pages are exciting and well written, their subject presumably more to Budianskys taste than the mere work of the law, to which Holmes devoted the next 71 years until he died at 94. Budianskys warrior Holmes is not permitted to be an intellectual, despite devoting a decade of his life to a work of dense scholarship, his pathbreaking book, The Common Law. He must share Budianskys outspoken contempt for academics, despite having sought and accepted a professorship at Harvard Law School, resigning only because he was appointed to the bench. This Holmes could not possibly have had sex with one or more other young men, as an earlier biographer, Sheldon Novick, has suggested. He cannot have had a troubled marriage. His law clerks cannot have been surrogate sons for the childless justice. Holmess enthusiastic embrace of eugenics must be the product of his time, not an expression of the distinctive contempt that he considered as proof of his own tough-mindedness. Budianskys playing down of the contradictions that make Holmes infuriating and interesting is particularly mystifying because he has dived into the sea of Holmess voluminous writings and even contributed to Holmes scholarship. Budiansky goes through the mass of Holmess state court opinions and tells previously untold tales of Holmess several years of experience as a trial judge riding circuit through the state. Budiansky also does a fine job of telling the story of Holmess gradual move to embracing free speech under the influence of Judge Learned Hand and the Harvard Law School professor Zechariah Chafee. Along the way, Budiansky makes good (if grudging) use of Louis Menands Metaphysical Club, relying on its brilliant apercu that the war made Holmes lose his belief in beliefs. ASSAD OR WE BURN THE COUNTRY How One Familys Lust for Power Destroyed Syria By Sam Dagher Bashar al-Assad assassinated! shouted a man as he cycled past Manaf Tlass, an exiled Syrian general once a member of Assads inner circle, as he sat in an outdoor cafe in Paris in 2017. A childhood friend of the Syrian presidents, Tlass had fled Syria five years earlier, denouncing the government that he expected to fall at any moment. The cyclists cry may have suggested that this outcome was finally at hand, but Tlass greeted the news with a pained smile. Thats Ali, the guy I buy my newspapers from. He tells me this every time I see him, he explained to Sam Dagher, the author of Assad or We Burn the Country. Tlass, the main insider source for this account of the Assad familys half century in power, was one of many who underestimated the regimes strength after the start of the Arab Spring uprising in Syria in 2011. Were coming for you, one rebel threatened Assad in a television address the following year. Opposition forces attacked Damascus and Aleppo, the two biggest cities. Foreign governments assumed that Assad was on his way out and overconfidently discussed the best place for him to go Africa or South America after he had stepped down. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton assured more than 100 foreign ministers assembled in Paris in the summer of 2012 that there was a steady inexorable march toward ending the regime. The march turned out to be in the other direction: Assad and his regime gradually reasserted their grip and today hold most of the country, aside from the scantily inhabited northeast, ruled by Kurdish-led forces backed by the United States, and the large enclave around Idlib in the northwest held by Al Qaeda-type groups. The regime was never quite as weak as it appeared to the outside world: Utterly ruthless, it was prepared to kill anybody who got in its way, had a cohesive leadership united by kinship and kept the loyalty of core units of the army and Mukhabarat (secret police), which were often led by members of the Alawite sect, approximately two million strong, who saw themselves as battling not only to keep power but for their very existence. Macfarlane, who won the E.M. Forster Award for Literature in 2017, is primarily known as a nature writer, but it is not a term he is altogether comfortable with, especially regarding Underland. The nature here is rock and ice and time and nuclear waste and human activity, he said. So if it is nature writing, then it is a dark kind of nature writing, but Im quite happy for it not to sit easily in a genre. In Underland, as in his previous books, he insists on experiencing things for himself. He navigates precarious underground passageways in the Paris catacombs or ancient burial tombs in the Mendips of Somerset. Gradually he became fascinated by the idea that claustrophobia might possess this vicarious power to move people, grip them, he said. The body comes to know places in ways that cant be known by reading or remote-sensing. When he was younger, he was an avid rock climber, though he qualifies this with self-deprecation: I was very bad at it, but I was quite bold, and thats a bad combination. After an aborted Alps expedition I just reached a point on a knife edge at a ridge where it was impossible to proceed he has dialed back. He also has his wife, the writer and China scholar Julia Lovell, and their three children, Lily, Tom and Will, to consider. Macfarlane grew up in rural Nottinghamshire, but his love of nature and landscape bloomed when his parents began taking the family on walking holidays in Scotland. That was the country thats drawn me back and back as a writer and as a walker and a climber, he said. Underland is the first book Ive ever written that has no Scotland in it. Image Credit... Alessandra Montalto/The New York Times Altogether there have been nine books. To his surprise the one that has had the most impact is a childrens title, The Lost Words. Published in 2017, it began when Macfarlane and the British artist Jackie Morris were told that the latest edition of the Oxford Junior Dictionary had dropped nature words like acorn, dandelion and kingfisher in favor of technological terms. Together they created The Lost Words as a book of poetry or spells, with his writing and her illustrations. Get the DealBook newsletter to make sense of major business and policy headlines and the power-brokers who shape them. __________ A struggling global economy. A trade war. Geopolitical turmoil. Heading into 2019, Wall Street analysts had good reason to worry about the impact of international markets on corporate Americas profits. So far, it appears they werent worried enough. A wide divide has developed in the performance between the companies with the most exposure to the rest of the world and those that are mostly focused on the United States. At companies in the S&P 500 that draw more than half their revenue from abroad, first-quarter profits fell about 12 percent, according to data from John Butters, the senior earnings analyst at FactSet. By contrast, earnings at firms that generate most of their sales within the United States grew about 6 percent. The Paris Agreement is designed to let countries set their own targets to control their greenhouse gas emissions, and then to ramp up those commitments in the coming years. The first formal deadline to ramp up those pledges is 2020. The Trump administration has said it intends to pull out of the agreement making the United States an outlier but that also cant formally happen until the end of 2020. Whether the United Nations can persuade big polluting countries, like China and those within the European Union, to hasten their own reduction of greenhouse gas emissions is an important test for the world body. The Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, has made climate change a signature issue of his administration, and he has encouraged world leaders to tax carbon and quickly dump coal, the worlds dirtiest fossil fuel. At its climate summit in September, the day before the high-level meeting of the General Assembly begins, the United Nations says it aims to showcase the best examples of what is being done now to reduce the use of planet-warming fossil fuels, and to encourage countries to commit to more ambitious climate goals. Mr. de Alba said he is hopeful that China would announce new climate pledges at the September summit. At least 80 countries, he said, have signaled to the United Nations that they want to do so. But it doesnt mean they are ready to do that in the scale we need and by September, Mr. de Alba said. Among the invitees to the climate summit is the Swedish youth activist, Greta Thunberg. Mr. de Alba said she wants to come, but he did not know whether she would come, or how. Ms. Thunberg does not fly because of her concern about emissions from aviation fuel, and once suggested that she might travel to New York on a cargo ship. For more news on climate and the environment, follow @NYTClimate on Twitter. The post-World War II evolution of the American kitchen was not simply a matter of design and technology. As the design writer Sarah Archer explains, it was largely driven by social changes, especially concerning the role of women. Ms. Archer starts with the history of the kitchen and then covers the evolution of its features, including the standardization of dimensions and of appliances, advances like freezing and tastes in color avocado and even bright red, for everything. And though a sleek space-age look was heavily promoted at Worlds Fairs and even in Moscow at the exhibition that led to the confrontation between Richard M. Nixon, then the vice president, and Nikita Khrushchev, it appears that vintage charm still has its champions. The Midcentury Kitchen: Americas Favorite Room, From Workspace to Dreamscape, 1940s-1970s by Sarah Archer (Countryman Press, $24.95). Follow NYT Food on Twitter and NYT Cooking on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. Get regular updates from NYT Cooking, with recipe suggestions, cooking tips and shopping advice. Headline Tsismis NYC The flavors of the Philippines are interpreted inventively in the hands of Jappy Afzelius, a Filipino executive chef who worked at high-end kitchens in France, Italy and New York. Starters, called pica pica, include pinsit fritos or pork dumplings, fried vegetable spring rolls called lumpia, and kale laing sauteed with shrimp paste and replacing taro leaves with kale. Mr. Afzelius adds Filipino ingredients to a Caesar salad; uses French-cut chicken breasts in his chicken adobo with turmeric soy sauce; includes salmon in sinigang, a typical tamarind soup; and serves traditional Filipino milkfish belly called bangus, fried with chayote and quinoa. His halo-halo dessert uses coconut sorbet in place of shaved ice. Not only does the menu expand your Filipino vocabulary, but you may also note that the name of the restaurant is a play on the Spanish word chisme, or gossip. The intimate room has a tropical feel, a copper bar and a chefs table with eight seats facing the open kitchen. Philippe Segura, the beverage director, selected the wines and sakes. The owners, Stephen Young and Reggie Aguinaldo, have Filipino roots. (Opens Friday, June 7) 143 Orchard Street (Rivington Street), 646-329-6875, tsismisnyc.com. Opening The Tang Eric Sze and Yu Li, the owners of this Chinese noodle bar with a location in the East Village, went separate ways. Mr. Li subsequently opened Tang Hotpot on the Lower East Side, and is now adding an expanded version of the Tang to the Upper West Side. The new restaurant, with Kim Hui Teo, who was at Tim Ho Wan and RedFarm, in the kitchen, still features dishes like drunk noodles with beef, and scallion oil noodles. Others include marinated short ribs with Sichuan spices, braised pork knuckle with fermented bean curd and baijiu, and Japanese-style grilled eggplant. The dining room is crimson, with bare brick and an open kitchen. (Friday) 920 Amsterdam Avenue ( 10 5th Street), 646-596-7970, thetangnyc.com. Gemelli, the Ledge and Green Room The restaurateur Daniel Cipriani of the Sea Wolf in Bushwick, Brooklyn, is opening three places in a newly renovated commercial building. Gemelli, on the ground floor, will be an all-day restaurant featuring fresh pasta. The Ledge, on the second floor, is a 1970s California-style bar with a year-round roof deck; the speakeasy-style Green Room is installed upstairs. (Saturday) 321 Starr Street (Cypress Avenue), Bushwick, Brooklyn, 347-295-0731. Sushi by Bou Another iteration of the 30-minute omakase chain opens. (Thursday) 1811A Emmons Avenue (Sheepshead Bar Road), Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, sushibybou.com. Both had recently moved to Seattle. The coffee shop was crowded. He asked if she wanted to sit next to him. He was a professor of psychology, I was a psychologist, so we had lots to talk about, she said. He walked me to my car and our steps matched perfectly. His car was on the street. It was an old, dark red sedan with bench seats and had big patches of white all over it. He told me his car was voted ugliest car in the University of Washingtons parking lot. I fell in love with the car and him instantly. He asked for her phone number and called a few days later. The conversation lasted for hours. More calls followed, then a date. Then she was leaving to do a short speaking tour for work, which had her staying at five different hotels. John called my job and found out which hotels I was staying at he sent flowers to each one, she said. That blew my mind. We started dating when I came back. Four months later they moved in together. Soon after the pair was having lunch at a Chinese restaurant after going to synagogue. John said, What do you think of the idea of marriage? I wasnt sure what he meant. Then realized it was a proposal, she said. They were married six months later. What Theyve Learned Dr. Schwartz Gottman John and I came from very different places. Hes a researcher, Im a clinician. He was in the labs, I was in the front lines. He loves to sit in a chair and read, I love to climb mountains. His parents were Holocaust survivors. He grew up in Brooklyn sleeping in the hallway of a one-bedroom apartment. I grew up in Oregon in an upper middle class home. He was raised as modern Orthodox. I was raised as reformed synagogue on the high holidays. Our relationship was based on different approaches and backgrounds. We fought like cats and dogs, but weve worked a lot of things out. Gay men were literally dying to get into these trials, said Jeff Taylor, 56, an H.I.V. advocate in Palm Springs, Calif., who enrolled in dozens of trials after his diagnosis in 1982. Now, 30 years later, its the same group of people, who understand the value of clinical trials. Gay men have formed strong support networks that alert potential participants to clinical trials, and they often live in cities where the research is conducted. By contrast, women with H.I.V. tend to be isolated, and may not advocate for themselves. They may need help with child care or transportation, or be more comfortable with female doctors accommodations few trials offer. For women of color, there is an additional hurdle: mistrust resulting from a long history of exploitation by medical researchers. Its a lot of stigma still in our community around research, said Ublanca Adams, 60, who is living with H.I.V. in Concord, Calif. Scientists do not seem to know how to gain that trust, she said: How information is given out to our community and our people is just not in a way to be inclusive, nor is it inviting. Ms. Adams said she has enrolled in a few observational studies, but does not trust scientists enough to participate in tests of a treatment or cure. In the rare cases where scientists go the extra mile to enroll women, they face additional scrutiny from the Food and Drug Administration. (The agency has strict rules for including women of childbearing age.) The political has long been the personal for those who decided to abandon all they knew in El Salvador to search for a safer, but uncertain, future up north. The atrocities committed by its American-backed government during its war against leftist guerrillas in the 1980s spurred an exodus whose legacy is reflected in todays migrant crisis. The political narrative dominating the news includes scenes of desperate, weary souls seeking asylum and alarms over an impending albeit unproven invasion of hordes bringing crime and disease. Anita Pouchard Serra, who had been photographing news events along the border, thought the flood of images coming from there failed to capture the profundity of the crisis. That uneasiness eventually led her and two other like-minded journalists to Intipuca, a town in El Salvador transformed by remittances sent by untold thousands of its absent sons and daughters working in restaurants, hair salons, stores and offices in the Washington, D.C., area. T here were no Crazy Rich Asians onscreen in those days, no roles for Park to play, no roles for funny Asian-American women like Wong because, hang on, was there even such a thing? In this regard, Crazy Rich Asians was a commercial breakthrough for Hollywood. But it wasnt much use on the sociocultural front the majority of the movie is set outside the United States and if anything, it reinforced some ugly stereotypes . Too many dragon ladies and vacuous shoppers . It was also a fantasy a movie about no one any of us actually knows, set in a world where none of us actually live. Always Be My Maybe, meanwhile, is about people we all know. We werent trying to make a statement or whatever, Wong said. If people want to put it in that context, thats up to them. But its a very different movie. They were just trying to make a movie they wish they could have seen in their teens and 20s. The first time Park suggested they write the movie together, Wong thought it was for him to star in with another actress. Like Anne Hathaway or something, she said. No, he replied, he meant her. I remember looking in the mirror and looking at my face, and I was really surprised, Wong said. And then I was really excited. The streaming giant Netflix has become the first major Hollywood studio to publicly weigh in on Georgias restrictive abortion law, with Ted Sarandos, its chief content officer, saying the company would rethink our entire investment in Georgia should the law go into effect. Signed on May 7, the so-called fetal heartbeat law prompted calls for Hollywood to boycott Georgia, a major production hub for film and television that has generated 92,000 jobs in the state and $2.7 billion in annual revenues. While a small handful of productions canceled prospective plans to shoot in the state location scouting for the coming series The Power and a new Kristen Wiig movie have both been nixed large studios, including Warner Bros. and Disney, stayed mum, unwilling to risk alienating audiences by coming down on either side. Privately, studio executives said they are hoping that the law, which bans abortion once a fetal heartbeat is detectable, except in cases of rape or incest, gets struck down as unconstitutional, as has happened in other states. [Read more about Hollywood and the Georgia abortion law.] If unchallenged, the law will go into effect in January 2020. Should that happen, Netflix, which has productions in the state including the series Stranger Things and Ozark, along with the coming film Holidate, is suggesting it might consider boycotting, too. The Times first asked donors why they decided to donate to the mayor; for those who didnt immediately hang up, a second question followed: Do you think he should be president? Out of 35 people who stayed on the line long enough to hear the question, five said yes including a lawyer in Pennsylvania, an architect in Brooklyn and a woman on the Upper East Side. Seven said no, and the rest either expressed no preference or declined to say. Alex Tourk, a San Francisco public relations executive who gave $5,000 in September, had kind words for Mr. de Blasio. But as a presidential candidate? I am supporting Senator Kamala Harris, he said. Several less well-heeled donors said they had given to Mr. de Blasios committee not so much out of personal support for the mayors mission, but because of interpersonal ties in particular immigrant communities. Donations to Fairness PAC clustered around a handful of such events: one fund-raiser last year in Queens drew many Asian-American donors; another tapped into bonds in an Indian-American community on Long Island. An event in March saw a large number of Albanians gather for the mayor in a private room at Josephs Italian restaurant in Lower Manhattan. The host, Ilirjan Rusi, said the event attracted a range of small business people, restaurateurs and those who work in the building trades. The Albanians like the photo ops! he said, laughing. (That nights haul may have been offset by Mr. Rusis brother, Selim, a longtime supporter of Mr. de Blasios: Records show that a month earlier he had donated $41,000 to President Trumps re-election.) During election season, I always cringe when I see can didates eating fried chicken next to a bottle of hot sauce in Harlem or taking stag ed photos with black leaders. These shallow symbolic gestures are not a substitute for meaningful engagement with black voters. And candidates should know that we see right through them. Candidates and their campaigns are comfortable talking at black people, but few want to talk to us. This limits our ability to influence their decisions and policies. And its a bad strategy at a time when black people, black women in particular, form the base of the Democratic Party, are its most loyal voters and mobilize other people to go to the polls. Thats why, in 2018, I started the Black Census Project, the results of which we are releasing on Tuesday . More than 31,000 bl ack people from all 50 states participated in what we believe is the largest independent survey o f black people ever conducted in the United States. Share this with Close Three workers were killed and two others are missing after a metro construction site collapsed in Qingdao, Shandong Province. Photo taken on Monday, May 27, 2019 shows a collapsed metro construction site in Qingdao, Shandong Province. [Photo: Xinhua] The accident happened Monday afternoon, trapping five workers. Rescuers found three trapped workers deceased early Tuesday morning. Searching for the other two workers is underway. During El Salvadors brutal, bloody civil war, the Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front, or F.M.L.N., a coalition of leftist guerrilla groups, and Arena, a far-right political party that had its own death squads, were deadly enemies, killers and killed. From the 1980 assassination of Archbishop Oscar Romero, which was organized by Arenas founder, to a peace agreement in 1992, thousands of peasants were massacred. Union leaders and students had their thumbs tied behind their backs with wire, then were shot in the head, their bodies left behind shopping malls as a warning to others. Altogether some 75,000 civilians were killed during the war. The military acted with impunity, and had immunity. Now the F.M.L.N., which has 23 seats in the 84-member Legislative Assembly, is supporting legislation by Arena, which has 37 seats, that is tantamount to a de facto amnesty for crimes committed during the war. Politics may make strange bedfellows, but this? A vote is expected on Wednesday as the parties rush to pass the legislation before a new president, Nayib Bukele, is sworn in on Saturday. He has expressed opposition to the measure. The current president, Sanchez Ceren, was an F.M.L.N. commander during the war and has been linked to at least one crime that could be prosecuted if there is no amnesty the kidnapping of a wealthy businessman. Although the Cuban leadership has been criticized in the past for a lack of diversity , Cubas egalitarian society was the product of several decades of policies in pursuit of equality . The public sector was the predominant source of employment on the island and an engine for equality. Salaries were legally regulated and applied equally, regardless of gender, skin color, socioeconomic origin, or social and family networks. In 1959, Fidel Castro called for a battle against racial discrimination, particularly in the labor force. He envisioned an equal distribution of opportunities in areas such as education and employment that would ultimately unseat racism. The new nation would be built through social inclusion policies for the poor and disadvantaged, irrespective of color. Racism was conceived as a byproduct of societys class stratification, and would disappear with time. This framework guaranteed that income distribution margins would be narrow : In the 1980s the maximum wage differential in the public sector was 4.5 to 1. The government also guaranteed free and equal access to education, basic levels of nutrition, a public health system that was the envy of the developing world, and free access to art and culture. Consequently, by the 1980s, Cuban society had achieved unparalleled levels of racial equality in life expectancy, schooling, job distribution and even representation in power structures. In this sense, the Cuban social experiment is an exceptional laboratory for analyzing the impact of the so-called universal policies on racism and racial inequality. How can we explain the creation of a private sector plagued by discriminatory practices, yet based on an egalitarian society such as the Cuba of the 1980s? Have the ideals of equality and inclusion that guided state management for decades been abandoned? Scholars of racism in the Americas have debated various racial justice policies and the usefulness of specific laws against racism and discrimination. The achievements and limitations of affirmative action in the United States is frequently cited. On the one hand, it led to the creation of an African-American middle class along with the benefits that this implies. And yet, these policies benefit the relatively few, those already favored; they have not trickled down to the large sectors of the population that the sociologist William Julius Wilson deemed the truly disadvantaged. In France, the Greens gained as well, although the right-wing National Rally ( known until recently as the National Front ) finished first. The two traditional parties finished fourth and sixth. Opinion Debate Will the Democrats face a midterm wipeout? Mark Penn and Andrew Stein write that "only a broader course correction to the center will give Democrats a fighting chance in 2022" and beyond. write that "only a broader course correction to the center will give Democrats a fighting chance in 2022" and beyond. Matthew Continetti writes that time and again, the biggest obstacle to a red wave hasnt been the Democratic Party. Its been the Republican Party. writes that time and again, the biggest obstacle to a red wave hasnt been the Democratic Party. Its been the Republican Party. Ezra Klein speaks to David Shor, who discusses his fear that Democrats face electoral catastrophe unless they shift their messaging. speaks to David Shor, who discusses his fear that Democrats face electoral catastrophe unless they shift their messaging. Michelle Cottle examines two primary contests that will shake the parties well beyond the states in play. Many people felt relief that far-right parties which traffic in xenophobia didnt do better in this weekends elections. Instead, candidates who support the idea of the European Union combined to win a majority of seats. I share that relief. But I think its important not to lose sight of the main story line. Across much of Europe and the United States, dissatisfaction with the status quo remains the dominant political mood. Thats why so many European parties that were powerful only a few years ago now finish well outside the top two spots. Its also why Donald Trump was able to take over the Republican Party and win the presidency and why control of Congress has flipped back and forth in recent years. In the 2020 presidential campaign, Trump will no doubt attempt to tap into this anti-establishment mood once again. He will be the incumbent, which will make that strategy trickier for him. But he will be an incumbent like no other, one who constantly shows his disdain for the status quo. Democrats will need their own plan for speaking to this desire for change, especially if they nominate the decidedly establishment Joe Biden. Last weeks elections to the European Parliament, like many other elections these days, were more of an ideological battleground than a process of choosing representatives to a legislature. The populist nationalists on the rise across much of the world had been expected to score big, and to the degree that they fell short there was relief. But there was little else to pop Champagne corks about. The European Parliament itself is not an institution many Europeans feel strongly about, and past elections have reflected that disinterest. But the rise of populism and a broad dissatisfaction with traditional parties turned this years elections into something of a referendum on populist nationalism, on the European Union itself and on the mainstream parties. The results delivered the heartening news that Europeans still care about Europe. Europes populist parties had wanted to make the elections a dagger in the heart of the bloc. That danger galvanized supporters of the 28-member union, resulting in a turnout of more than 50 percent, the highest since 1994 . The populists did increase their share of seats, from 20 percent to a robust 25 percent, but fell short of the landslide many had feared. Pro-European forces in Parliament remained dominant. Yet the results also showed Europe more polarized than ever. Those who wanted to support the European Union usually voted for smaller parties, like the Greens or Liberals, and voters on the right often went further right, all but abandoning the mainstream center-left and center-right parties that have controlled the European Parliament for years. Mr. Salvini has been crowned (or at least, has crowned himself) this movements leader. During the campaign he met with fellow nationalists across Europe, and organized a big rally in Milan to unite the parties. His dream now is to build a cohesive voting bloc in the new Parliament that can shape the legislative agenda. Hes likely to fail: Nationalists arent known for cooperation and compromise, and many issues divide them, in particular Russia. Even so, they are a force to be reckoned with. None of these parties seems any longer to support exiting the European Union or the eurozone. Instead, they want to change it from within. If the nationalist far right can mobilize a third of the European Parliaments votes by making common cause with other conservatives, it will be able to do lots of damage, for example by blocking any attempt by the European Commission to punish a European Union country that violates the rule of law. Last year the Parliament issued such a warning against Hungary. Would the same thing be possible in 2020? Its not hard to imagine the European Union becoming a union of liberal and illiberal democracies. Thankfully and for this we can be grateful to voters the euroskeptic nationalists are not the only new force to be reckoned with in the European Parliament. Liberal and Green parties were the surprise winners of this election. Together they gained about 60 additional seats, giving them a total of 176; with this will come much political influence. Perhaps the Greens will use their success to demand that climate change become a priority for the continent. The Greens found their support predominantly among young, urban pro-Europeans who support the idea of a united Europe but are critical of the European Union as it exists today. They see Brussels as risk averse and neglectful when it comes to long-term problems like rising inequality and the environment. So these are the victors: Ecological liberals who want to preserve life on Earth and national populists who want to preserve their way of life. But what they have in common is the sense that the current trajectory of politics and society is not sustainable. They both offered change and change was in demand. There is nothing physicists love more than a mess of puzzling, apparently contradictory experimental results. Physicists are convinced that nature is fundamentally simple, and that they can discover hidden principles which bring order to the chaos if they just think about it hard enough. Nobody was better at finding order amid apparent chaos than Murray Gell-Mann, who died on Friday. The 1950s and 60s were a Golden Age of particle physics, as accelerators produced a plethora of new particles with unpredictable properties. This presented a problem: There were too many of these new particles, which appeared in collisions without any evident rhyme or reason. They didnt look anything like the kind of simple, elegant structure scientists expect from the laws of nature. With a series of brilliant strokes, Dr. Gell-Mann revealed the secret pattern that made everything snap into place. His Eightfold Way, mischievously named after a Buddhist doctrine of liberation, made sense of the new particles that had been discovered and predicted ones that hadnt been. The Eightfold Way is to elementary particles what the Periodic Table is to chemical elements. Ultimately, he proposed quarks, unobserved particles that are bound together in groups of two or three, to account for almost all of the new discoveries. But that wasnt all. Dr. Gell-Mann was at the center of a whirlwind of theoretical activity. He showed how quantum mechanics allowed a particle to transform into a different particle and then back again. He demonstrated that the strength of particle interactions would depend on the energy with which they were colliding. With his colleague Richard Feynman, he explicated the symmetry structure of the weak nuclear force , one of the four forces of nature. He proposed a physical quantit y strangeness that would explain why some particles lasted longer than others. He, along with Harald Fritzsch, hypothesized that there were force-carrying particles, which they called gluons, that hold quarks together. Each of these ideas has subsequently been triumphantly confirmed by experiment. To the Editor: Re Aide Says Trump Shares Kims View of Biden (news article, May 27): Sometime in the future, the question will be asked about how, in 2019, Republican officeholders responded when the president of the United States affirmed the insult by a North Korean dictator of a distinguished American politician. The question will be asked how a particular Republican senator, congressman or woman, or governor responded to Donald Trumps agreement with Kim Jong-uns denigration of Joe Biden. The answer silence will shame the descendants of all those officeholders until the memories of these craven politicians are forgotten. Barth Landor Chicago To the Editor: Re In Climate Fight, Trump Will Put Science on Trial (front page, May 28): In the face of increasingly violent storms, drought and wildfires, of climate refugees showing up at our southern border from Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador, of our Midwestern farmers grappling with record floods that destroy their crops and threaten their livelihood, and of the raw dollar cost of disaster relief, President Trump continues to try to make the intellectually dishonest case that climate change is a hoax. There is little left to roll back in terms of President Barack Obamas environmental regulations. Now the coup de grace: The president will assemble a panel of outliers, spurned by the scientific community, to prepare papers challenging what is obvious to most Americans, that climate change has indeed arrived. Fingers crossed that voters in 2020 will not be hoodwinked yet again. Felicia Massarsky Atlantic City To the Editor: With the United States going climate-science-free, its up to states to create sensible policy. Gov. Jay Inslee of Washington signed a bill this month to commit to a 100 percent renewable electric grid, the fifth governor to do so. Six other states are considering such legislation. Gov. Andrew Cuomo of New York just announced the 2020 closure of the states last coal-fired energy plants, on the states way to a 70 percent renewable grid by 2030 . Even cities and towns are making renewable pledges . Missouris governor, Mike Parson, also recently signed a measure banning abortion after eight weeks of pregnancy, without exceptions for victims of rape or incest. The legislation is part of a rash of near-total abortion bans being passed around the country this year nearly all of which are being held up in the court system and will not go into effect unless Roe v. Wade is overturned. Despite all efforts against it, the St. Louis Planned Parenthood has managed to hold on, while four other clinics in the state stopped providing abortions over the past decade. What seems likely to finally do in the clinics ability to perform abortions is a dispute with the state health department over the renewal of its license, which expires on Saturday . Planned Parenthood says that to make it more onerous to provide abortions, the health department has created new rules and started enforcing others that have long been understood to be outdated. One rule would require that doctors perform two separate pelvic exams on surgical abortion patients, despite protests from doctors that such a requirement is medically unnecessary and could be traumatic for patients. Planned Parenthood says that the clinic will not agree to comply with all of the rules, and the group plans to sue the state over the matter. If the St. Louis clinic stops performing abortions, Missouri will show America what abortion access would look like in much of the country if Roe were overturned, as some experts fear it will be in the years ahead. The coasts and parts of the Midwest would still have a decent number of clinics, while the entire Southeastern portion of the country and the region from Texas up through Missouri would likely not. Abortion would become, even more than it is today, a procedure for the upper classes: Women with the financial means to travel, to pay for child care or to take time off from work would be able to get one in a clinic , while those who are poor would not. For now, many Missouri women looking to have an abortion would most likely travel to clinics in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Illinois and Iowa in fact, many women in the state are already doing exactly that. But many of those states are facing their own attacks on abortion rights, and if anti-abortion lawmakers keep racking up political wins, the options for women will continue to dwindle. Howdy. Good evening. Can everyone hear me? As my reign as your queen comes to an end tonight, I want to tell you what it meant to me to be your 64th queen. If you live in Luling, you know who the Watermelon Thump Queen is. They, for that year, get to represent Luling. They didnt want it to be a pageant like other towns have. They wanted it to be an election, where girls would go and ask for votes. I wanted to show the community that I was worthy of holding the title of Watermelon Thump Queen, and to be able to carry that name throughout the rest of my life. I really wanted to run, because its my hometown. And its my familys hometown. And that scholarship really means a lot. Most of my family didnt graduate from college. And Im really dead set that I am going to. And Im going to get my degree. And I just really want to be able to provide for my family. Like, I want to be able to buy my parents the things that theyve always wanted. Ive lived in Luling for all my life, the past 17 years. Were all connected through our agriculture, or the oil fields. Its a low income town. If you come, you usually stay, sometimes for the best, sometimes for the worst. We have the north side and the south side. The north side is more of like, the Mexican families and that sort of thing. And then this sides usually more white, rich families. We all get along, but I feel like its a big separation issue. At school, I do the announcements. And I had to announce, any girl that would like to run for Watermelon Thump Queen, please pick up a packet. It needs to be returned by this Friday. And it was scary for me, because I was like, oh, I hope nobody else picks up a packet. Then Ill win, and Ill have it all to myself. The first meeting, its scary, because its something youve been waiting for your whole life. And thats when it got real. The candidate must be a resident of Luling or the vicinity. She must be qualified as at least a junior attending Luling High School, who has never been married and is not pregnant and who does not have children, and if elected, must remain unmarried and without children during her reign. The candidate may not have a GoFundMe page on Facebook. [laughter] Are you kidding? no, Im not kidding. The girl with the most votes will be elected queen, princess with the next most votes. Each girl must ride in at least four parades in the first round and four parades during the second round. But anyway, unless yall have any other questions Im in cross country. Im also in basketball. Also a cheerleader, National Honor Society. Its a lot, but its great, because Im never bored. [chanting] Ive been good friends with Celina for a long time. Im the drum major in the band. Im in Key Club, Im in student council. I dont like to be bored. One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight. Jessalyn is very strong. Shes not let anybody know that youve hurt her feelings or anything like that. She keeps it inside. And part of me applauds her for that. And part of me doesnt want her to do that. Celina was a very active child. In school, shed tell all the boys and girls, climb up on the teacher, saying, everybody, come over here with me. Im going to read you a story. Or were going to talk about this. And she could lead the class in first grade. So yeah, thats my Celina. See what my fortune is. Oh, I want one too. What did you get? Honor yourself and others will honor you too. Thats pretty cool. The girls that have ran that were Hispanic, theyve worked their tails off. Sometimes, therell be like three Hispanics running. And so votes split. You know, theyre like, well, they have to pick one. They cant choose all of them, because I know if they could choose all of them, they would. Theyd all be queen. I just remember hearing all those negative things that were said to me, like, youre never going to win. And why would you think that you could run for Thump Queen? I had to work very hard and make myself known to the community, and also show the type of person that I was, that I could represent Luling in a good light when you look at all of the Thump Queen pictures, youll notice that theres a trend. The tradition of Thump Queen is they are predominately Caucasian. I was the first Hispanic queen since 1978. Yeah. Sorry. No, its O.K. Are you O.K.? Yeah. Just, its very exciting when a Hispanic girl wins, because theres a lot of Hispanics here. Our community, its getting bigger. I think that sometimes, its hard to progress or grow, you know? A lot of people dont like change when youre in a small town. A lot of Hispanic families have no clue how to even go and vote, or the date, or they thought they needed all these credentials to vote. You know, a drivers license well, I dont have a drivers license. Well, you dont need one. I have family that said for the past three or four years, no girl has come to my door. Everyone says the candidates are too scared to hit that side of town. People dont vote if you dont ask. Even though it is an election, being born and raised here, growing up here, you know, you just can almost pinpoint whos going to get it. Some people just see it as a level playing field, but its really not. Family and money are two huge factors. Ive definitely had people say, Im not going to vote for you, because youre Mexican. And its really frustrating, because Im just me. You feel for your child, because shes dealing with something that should not occur this early in life, to be honest. But are you going to let it knock you down, or are you gonna get back up and go? [music] [indistinct chatter] [cheering] It was good. It was very interesting. I met a lot of people. A lot of people. No. I think its close between three girls. Its very tense, because at that point, you know you cant do anything else. You cant go ask for another vote. You cant put out another sign. And now, the moment that weve all been waiting for. The Queen of the 65th Luling Watermelon Thump Her Royal Highness, Kendall Gibson. [Screaming, cheering, applause] [Music] Princess its still super neat. But you know, we all wanted to be queen. I dont really cry in front of people much. But in that moment, like, I felt loved and safe enough to just kind of like let it out and show them how I actually felt. It was really I dont know. Once I got my crown and I went and I sat back down, my escort, he had leaned down to me and said, Im really proud of you. And I just started crying. And I didnt want to cry, because a lot of people were like, thats kind of embarrassing. And I wasnt crying because I lost. I was crying because I knew I made someone proud. [country music playing] [live band playing] Its probably the most adult thing Ive ever had to do. I know I can do things for myself now. And Im ready to do more, see more. You cant be that shy little girl anymore. You have to get out there. You have to represent your town. So it changes you. It definitely does for the good. Yeah. Yeah. For the better. Yeah. Im in the process of getting my doctorate degree, which I dont think that would have ever happened had I not won Thump Queen. It just made me want to persevere through things and try things that people will tell you you cant accomplish. [laughing] I learned who I was, running for Watermelon Thump Queen. Regardless of the color of my skin, Im still going to work hard for what I want. I am the princess. And its nice to know that people remember me, and that I made an impact. [indistinct speech] Right there. Good eyes, thank you. Now, were gonna need you to unhitch I can do it. Well, I didnt realize it was Democrat. If Id have realized it was Democrat, I would have left it alone. [laughter] Yeah. I thought maybe Trump was getting on there. I didnt want him falling off. Everybody wants to see you the way they want to. Its more, what do you look like than who are you? And thats something that I can change. But I cant change it here. PRINCETON, N.J. A century ago, on May 29, 1919, the universe was momentarily perturbed, and Albert Einstein became famous. On Wednesday at the Institute for Advanced Study, Einsteins intellectual home from 1932 until his death in 1955, scholars celebrated the centenary with an afternoon symposium titled The Universe Speaks in Numbers. The premise: that nature reveals itself through patterns, which can be described with numbers and probed through problems posed by mathematicians and physicists alike. The events name was borrowed from the title of a new book by Graham Farmelo, who gave the introductory talk. This is actually a good story, said Helmut Hofer, a mathematician at the Institute, sitting in his office. Behind him, on the wall, hung an axiom that his wife had found and framed: Mathematics is such a drama queen. It cant seriously have that many problems. Having the right mathematicians in the company of the right physicists can be quite helpful in solving problems, said Dr. Hofer . Einstein himself apparently had no special plans for what he knew could be a momentous day. He was home in Berlin. He wrote a letter admitting a blunder in an ongoing debate with Theodor Kaluza, a German mathematician with a new notion of space-time that required five dimensions. Temps for Training A.I. Google has relied on temporary workers even when the work has become more permanent. When the company started a research project code-named Pygmalion in 2014 to improve its speech-recognition technology, it hired temporary employees many of whom had doctorates in linguistics to help annotate and structure data so Googles computers could better understand what people were saying, according to five people familiar with the project. The team grew to about 250, and the majority were contractors. Some contractors worked two years on the project, which is Googles limit, and took a six-month break before returning in a similar role. As the project grew, Google managers pressed contractors to do more. In a complaint to the human resources department, one full-time employee said project leaders pressured contractors to work longer hours than stated in their contracts without reporting overtime. The project leaders made subtle promises of conversion to full-time status, two of the employees said. Google said it had learned of a possible violation in February and immediately opened an investigation, which is still continuing, into unpaid overtime. The company said it instructed employees not to promise temps future employment. Our policy is clear that all temporary workers must be paid for any overtime worked, Ms. Naughton said. If we find that anyone isnt properly paid, we make sure they are compensated appropriately and take action against any Google employee who violates this policy. States and the federal government are trying to define the distinction between contractors and employees more clearly. The difference usually depends on how much control the company exercises over the worker. That is based on certain criteria, like whether the company has the power to hire or fire the employee, or supervise and control work schedules or conditions of employment. As a result, companies keep contingent workers at arms length. Planning for the Engagement In 1991, Mr. Schnell moved to Miami, where he met Staci Lee, a graduate student in marriage and family therapy. After a reasonable amount of time, he felt he trusted her enough to share his affection for the Theyre Playing Our Song album, which was now a fixture in his cars 8- track player, alternating only with The Carpenters. He had faith that Staci would get it and therefore get him. Its not the most manly of shows, he confided. They came to agree that their song was the second-act opener, When Youre in My Arms. In 1993, Ron relocated to Los Angeles for business and asked Staci to join him. But she was still studying at Nova Southeastern University and didnt want to move in with him just like, you know. But if he was willing to wait until she finished her masters degree, shed agree to come for a long visit. The understanding was that a life-changing decision was imminent. I wanted our engagement to be memorable, Ron told me over a bowl of chips con queso at the Tipsy Oak restaurant in Arlington. I decided if there was some way, maybe a high school was putting on the show, I could somehow find it. This was before the internet, reader, and it wasnt easy to research. And remember, too, that although Theyre Playing Our Song was the couples favorite show, and that it ran on Broadway for 1,082 performances, Staci had never actually seen it. Mr. Schnell was undeterred. He came to learn about theater licensing, and Samuel French publishing, and discovered that there would be a production in Long Beach, Calif., in March 1994. ALBUQUERQUE Congress has so far thwarted President Trumps plan to build a wall along the border with Mexico. But that hasnt stopped some supporters from finding a way to build their own barrier. A group that pushes for stricter border control is spending $6 million to construct less than a mile of border fencing on private land in southern New Mexico. Their hope is for the project to help limit the flow of migrant families trying to enter the United States around El Paso. It really was ridiculous how easy it was to get around the El Paso wall until we built this, said Kris Kobach, who is known for his hard-line stance on immigration and is on the advisory board of the group, We Build the Wall, which collects donations to finance a barrier on the southern border. Mr. Kobach unveiled the fencing on Memorial Day on land in Sunland Park, N.M., owned by the American Eagle Brick Co. He said that the company hired to build the wall, Fisher Industries of North Dakota, hoped to complete the project in a few days. Good morning. (If you dont already get California Today by email, heres the sign-up.) I hope your Memorial Day weekend was relaxing and reflective. Heres how The Times has covered the holiday for the past century. Its a worthwhile reminder that the nation has heard many calls for peace over the decades but its still possible to find some comfort in the words. Now, if for you a long holiday weekend means spending some time blissfully offline, you might have missed the latest developments in the bizarre story surrounding a police raid on a freelance journalists San Francisco home. On Friday, the chief of the San Francisco Police Department, William Scott, apologized for the raid, in which officers took a sledgehammer to the door of the home of the journalist, Bryan Carmody, in an effort to find information about where he obtained a leaked police report. Missouris last abortion clinic might have to stop providing the procedure by the end of the week because of a standoff with state officials over an audit. Lawyers for the clinic, which is operated by Planned Parenthood, say that the audit, which began this spring, has become wide-ranging and includes demands they consider to be unreasonable. They say the clinics license is due to expire at midnight on June 1, and if the disagreement is not sorted out by then, the clinic will be forced to stop providing abortions. Helene Krasnoff, head of litigation at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, said the group filed suit on Tuesday in court in St. Louis, where the clinic is, to try to prevent that outcome. A hearing scheduled for Wednesday was postponed until Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Central time. If the clinics license is not renewed, Missouri would become the first state in the United States without access to abortion services since 1974, the year after the Supreme Court extended federal protections for the procedure in its landmark Roe v. Wade decision. Tornadoes swept through Ohio and Indiana on Monday night and into Tuesday morning, killing at least one person, injuring others and leaving a trail of widespread damage. Footage on social media and from local news outlets showed homes torn apart, downed trees and power lines, and roads littered with debris. Emergency responders and homeowners were surveying the damage, which was spread across much of Ohio, and thousands of people were still without power. [Read more: 11 straight days of tornadoes have U.S. approaching uncharted territory] In Celina, a city of about 10,000 people about 60 miles north of Dayton, an 81-year-old man was killed after the storm picked up a vehicle and slammed it into his home, said Mike Robbins, the Mercer County emergency management director. He said that at least seven people had been injured, three of them seriously, and that at least 40 homes had been destroyed or seriously damaged. This article was produced in partnership with the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting. WASHINGTON A retired Navy judge has been named to oversee the military tribunals at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, filling a job that has lacked a permanent occupant since his predecessor was dismissed last year after discussing plea deals with defense lawyers in the Sept. 11 and the destroyer Cole cases. The acting secretary of defense, Patrick Shanahan, appointed the retired judge, Christian L. Reismeier, to the civilian job officially known as the convening authority for military commissions last week and the Pentagon announced the decision on Tuesday. Mr. Reismeier, who retired as a one-star admiral in 2015, was spotted last week at Military Commissions headquarters in Alexandria, Va. The job includes negotiating plea deals with defense lawyers, approving proposed cases, deciding whether prosecutors can seek the death penalty and funding trial and defense teams. The jobs responsibilities have been carried out since early last year on an interim basis by two lower-level officials. Mr. Reismeier is taking over more than 15 years after the Pentagon named the first overseer of a tribunal system at Guantanamo Bay set up after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks with no major Qaeda prosecution yet carried out. WASHINGTON A single House Republican again blocked final passage of a long-delayed emergency aid package, the second Republican in a week to use the power of an individual lawmaker to ensure the delay of relief for communities and farmers still recovering from natural disasters. House Democrats tried for a second time on Tuesday to use a procedural vote to pass a Senate-approved $19.1 billion package while most lawmakers are spending a weeklong recess outside of Washington. But Representative Thomas Massie, Republican of Kentucky, used the power of a single lawmaker to object to the vote, pushing for the full chamber to be present to vote on legislation. If the speaker felt that this was must-pass legislation, Mr. Massie said, the speaker should have called a vote before sending members home. When Representative Sanford Bishop, Democrat of Georgia, tried a second time to bring up an extension of the National Flood Insurance Program, Mr. Massie objected a second time. The main thing for me is the plans that she has that are just more thought out, she said. Ms. Warren shows no sign of slowing down on that front. Her campaign is expected to release another major policy proposal within the coming week, timed around a trip to Michigan and Indiana the 19th and 20th states she will have visited during the campaigns early stages. Her proposals have often coincided with campaign trips: an opioid plan before traveling to West Virginia, a proposal to protect public lands before visiting Colorado and Utah, a call to break up big technology companies before a rally in New York City. Altogether, she has posted more than a dozen policy explanations on her Medium page, and T-shirts branded Warren has a plan for that have become her campaigns fastest-selling merchandise. Ms. Warrens campaign has also caught the attention of several liberal groups and unions. Top leaders at the Service Employees International Union, the influential labor group with almost two million members, have pointed to Ms. Warrens ascendance as a reason to slow their primary endorsement process, according to people familiar with the deliberations. Some leaders at S.E.I.U. wanted to back Ms. Harris early in the primary season, these people said, particularly after her campaigns strong initial rollout, but the fluid nature of the race has the groups leaders echoing many rank-and-file Democrats, who feel it is too early to choose sides. Ms. Warren still faces the long-term challenge of growing her support to include a broader population of Democrats, including nonwhite voters as well as moderates. And she faces obstacles in multiple directions: In addition to competing with Mr. Sanders for voters on the partys left flank, she faces stiff competition from other candidates to emerge as an alternative to Mr. Biden, whose centrist campaign could appeal to a broad swath of Democratic voters. Like others in the race, she is dealing with the so-called electability test, as voters assess which candidate they believe is best suited to defeat Mr. Trump a calculation that can include gender bias in a country that has never elected a female president. Some online supporters have even taken to calling her Likable Liz in an attempt to rebuff notions she is only a policy wonk. Theres a lot of talk that the new Supreme Court, one with two Trump justices on it, might overturn Roe v. Wade. So the court cant just wake up one morning and say, were overruling Roe v. Wade. I think supporters of abortion rights are right to be nervous, but theyre maybe not exactly right about how to be nervous, what to be nervous about. Its a shorthand, sure, to say Roe v. Wade can be overruled, but thats not the only, or even the most likely, outcome. Let me take you through the possible scenarios. Lets call the first category the nuclear options. These are the most extreme and, therefore, least likely scenarios. The first one would flip Roe on its head. Roe says theres a constitutional right to abortion. The court could say the Constitution prohibits abortion in the interest of protecting fetal life. That would suggest that fetal life is like any other life, so that taking it away would be murder. So if the court were to go in that very unlikely direction, abortion would be outlawed across the nation, and women could not get abortions in the United States legally. A second nuclear option would be for the court to do away with the right to privacy established in a case called Griswold in 1965. The individual is entitled to some private sector. That right to privacy is the foundation for Roe v. Wade. If the right to privacy goes, it would do away with the basis for Roe v. Wade and, therefore, Roe v. Wade itself and flip the issue back to the states and allow states to regulate abortion as they wish. The right to privacy has been, and could be, the foundation of many rights, so I dont think its likely the court will go after the right to privacy. A second possibility, and the one everyones talking about, is the court could overrule Roe v. Wade. Protesters: Ho, ho, Roe v. Wade has got to go. Hey, hey, ho, ho. So in a post-Roe world, you still have a right to privacy. But that right to privacy does not include a constitutional right to abortion. States would be free to do what they wanted. And some advocacy groups say perhaps 22 states could make abortion illegal entirely. Thats probably not going to happen anytime soon. Protesters: Hey, hey, Roe v. Wade is here to stay. Chief Justice John Roberts is an incrementalist. He takes things step by step, and I dont think his first impulse is going to be, lets overrule Roe v. Wade when there are other ways to get from here to most of the way there. The last scenario, and the most likely one, is for the court to chip away at Roe v. Wade. The court has already upheld some restrictions on abortion. The 5 to 4 majority upheld a ban on performing abortions in public facilities. The U.S. Supreme Court today upheld the nationwide ban on partial-birth abortion. Medication abortion is now effectively blocked in Arkansas. Much more severe restrictions on abortion rights are a perfectly imaginable scenario when we have a new Supreme Court. Heres how that could happen. States cannot impose an undue burden on womens right to abortion. Thats a fairly malleable standard, and it wouldnt be hard for the Supreme Court to keep it in place, but interpret it slightly differently and say states can impose such restrictions. A couple of years ago, the court heard a case from Texas. And had the court sustained the Texas law, the number of clinics in Texas would have dropped from about 40 to about 10. And that could rapidly diminish the ability of women to get abortions because the nearest abortion clinic, at a minimum, could be hundreds of miles away. Its a little hard to answer exactly what life will look like in a given state because well have a patchwork of laws. But whats for sure is that women in red states, and particularly poor women in red states, will have a much harder time getting abortions as each successive abortion restriction is sustained by a court that now has a solidly conservative majority. There is a viable opposition to the rule of the ayatollahs and that opposition is centered in this room today. Months before he became President Trumps national security adviser, John Bolton spoke at the annual gathering of an Iranian dissident group known as the Mujahedeen Khalq or the M.E.K. The behavior and the objectives of the regime are not going to change. And therefore, the only solution is to change the regime itself. Its no secret that Bolton has long been a hardline foe of the Iranian government. And thats why before 2019, we here will celebrate in Tehran. Thank you very much. Even though Boltons 2019 prophecy hasnt come true yet the administration has escalated tensions between the two countries this year, even hinting at the use of force. Well see what happens with Iran. If they do anything, it will be a very bad mistake if they do anything. Im hearing little stories about Iran. If they do anything, they will suffer greatly. Well see what happens with Iran. Bolton believes the M.E.K. is a viable alternative to Irans government. So what is the M.E.K.? Its a dissident group and its primary mission is to overthrow the regime in Iran. A 2011 State Department estimate said the group had between five to 13,000 members. Most M.E.K. members are Iranian exiles living in Europe and the U.S. Many experts believe it has little support inside Iran itself. They often stage demonstrations against Irans human rights record and its cleric-run state. Its often described as a cult. The U.S. State Department says it calls for forcing spouses to divorce and weekly ideological cleansing sessions. It was led by Massoud Rajavi but hes been missing since 2003. And so his wife, Maryam Rajavi, has become the de facto leader. Until 2012, the United States considered it a terrorist organization. M.E.K.s tactics have shifted over the years. But it has been known to use violence to achieve its goals. M.E.K. started in Iran in the 1960s. In the 1970s, it carried out anti-regime activities against the shah right up until the Islamic Revolution in 1979. And then it targeted Ayatollah Khomeinis government too. But it didnt stop there. During this time it was also suspected to be behind the assassination of six Americans and the bombings of American companies in Iran. The group eventually moved to Iraq and tried to destabilize the Iranian regime from there. But after Saddam Hussein was toppled the country grew too dangerous for them, even with U.S. troops present. M.E.K. was still a pretty undesirable group. But then we did not want to watch it be slaughtered in Iraq. Today, Bolton isnt the only public figure to find common cause with the M.E.K. Rudy Giuliani, former D.N.C. chair Ed Rendell and Trump Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao have spoken at or attended M.E.K.s national conference. The group also has an aggressive lobbying arm and seems to have deep pockets. The amusing thing is that the M.E.K. will try to buy pretty much anyone and they, you know, I was approached to do events in support of the M.E.K. I know a number of other former government officials who found them truly detestable also were approached. You know, its really something to have someone on the phone offering you $15,000 or $20,000 to appear at a panel discussion because that doesnt happen for former diplomats every day. Bolton hasnt said who hed like to see take over in Iran since he became national security adviser. Our policy is not regime change. But hes continued the aggressive messaging. So Ayatollah Khamenei, I dont think youll have many more anniversaries to enjoy. If past statements are any guide, M.E.K.s most powerful advocate is now within earshot of the president. I had said, for over 10 years since coming to these events, that the declared policy of the United States of America should be the overthrow of the mullahs regime in Tehran. By comparison, the fetal remains provision is quite mild, Liptak said. What does this ruling change? Neither part of the law had been enforced before, as they both were blocked by lower courts before they became effective, Liptak said. But with the Supreme Courts decision, the fetal remains provision will most likely be enforced in a matter of weeks. What does it mean for Roe v. Wade? By sidestepping the fetal characteristics provision of the two-part law, the justices punted what could have been a test of the future of Roe v. Wade. The justices are taking incremental steps, said Liptak, who covered the ruling. They tiptoed into this area by reinstating the fetal remains law, which is sort of abortion related, but theyre not moving fast, he said. Theyre taking their time in teeing up a major abortion case. The case was also the first test of such an issue since Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh succeeded Justice Anthony M. Kennedy last year. Justice Kennedy had been a cautious supporter of abortion rights, according to Liptak, while Justice Kavanaughs limited record on the subject suggested some skepticism. The ruling keeps abortion off the Supreme Courts docket for now, and the compromise indicates that the court may be biding its time to tackle a major abortion case, even as multiple bills aiming to restrict abortion access have made their way through statehouses. Whats the debate about fetal remains? The part of the law about how to dispose of fetal remains was struck down by lower courts on the grounds that it wasnt rational women were allowed to dispose of the fetus as they wished, while abortion providers had to cremate or bury. The decision had nothing to do with whether or not a fetus was considered a person, Liptak said. In urging the justices to reinstate that part of the law, which they did, lawyers argued that fetal remains were worthy of respectful treatment. KABUL, Afghanistan More than 40 people were killed across Afghanistan on Tuesday on the eve of talks between Afghan politicians and Taliban leaders in Moscow, as the militant group pursued a familiar tactic of intensifying its attacks before high-profile meetings. Thirteen Afghan soldiers were killed by Taliban fighters in Khost Province, and 23 people, including Afghan special operations forces, police officers, civilians and militia members, died in western Ghor Province. In northern Samangan, Taliban fighters nearly overran an Afghan military outpost, killing at least six Afghan police officers and soldiers, according to Afghan officials. But on Monday, Afghan soldiers wrested control of the Deh Yak district in southeastern Ghazni Province from Taliban fighters after a concerted offensive. The group had controlled the town for two years. The spurt of violence came as Afghan politicians, including one of the candidates vying to replace President Ashraf Ghani in elections in September, and members of the Taliban arrived in Moscow to celebrate 100 years of diplomatic relations with Russia. The ceremony serves as an excuse for informal peace talks between Afghan politicians and 14 Taliban negotiators. BEIJING For three decades, Jiang Lin kept quiet about the carnage she had seen on the night when the Chinese Army rolled through Beijing to crush student protests in Tiananmen Square. But the memories tormented her of soldiers firing into crowds in the dark, bodies slumped in pools of blood and the thud of clubs when troops bludgeoned her to the ground near the square. Ms. Jiang was a lieutenant in the Peoples Liberation Army back then, with a firsthand view of both the massacre and a failed attempt by senior commanders to dissuade Chinas leaders from using military force to crush the pro-democracy protests. Afterward, as the authorities sent protesters to prison and wiped out memories of the killing, she said nothing, but her conscience ate at her. Now, in the run-up to the 30th anniversary of the June 4, 1989, crackdown, Ms. Jiang, 66, has decided for the first time to tell her story. She said she felt compelled to call for a public reckoning because generations of Chinese Communist Party leaders, including President Xi Jinping, have expressed no remorse for the violence. Ms. Jiang left China this week. [New documents show power games behind Tiananmen crackdown.] The pain has eaten at me for 30 years, she said in an interview in Beijing. Everyone who took part must speak up about what they know happened. Thats our duty to the dead, the survivors and the children of the future. WASHINGTON When President Trump delivered a Memorial Day speech to the crew of the amphibious assault ship Wasp in Tokyo Bay on Tuesday, some of the nearly 1,000 sailors and Marines aboard were wearing more than patriotism on their sleeves. At least a few service members wore round patches emblazoned with a likeness of Mr. Trump and the words Make Aircrew Great Again a play on his campaign slogan on their flight suits. Images of the patches went viral, and the Navy soon found itself with a hornets nest on its hands. Theyre inappropriate & against regulation, tweeted Mark Hertling, a retired three-star Army general. Seemingly caught between enforcing uniform protocols and potentially getting crosswise with the commander in chief, the Navy, at least for the moment, punted on deciding whether to mete out any punishment. ISLAMABAD, Pakistan Pakistans powerful military has seemed unstoppable recently in getting what it wants: its favored candidate as prime minister, a victory of sorts in a dogfight with the Indian military, and its media critics hounded into silence or compliance. Now, the Pakistani Army has turned its sights on ending one of the last unbending sources of dissent to its power, an ethnic Pashtun rights protest movement known as P.T.M. that has called the Pakistani security forces to account for extrajudicial killings and other injustices. Trying to stop a rights demonstration in the troubled region of Waziristan on Sunday, the security forces killed at least eight people, according to members of the movement who described the dead as unarmed and peaceful protesters. The army also took into custody Ali Wazir, one of the movements leaders and a member of the countrys Parliament. After months of threatening and arresting leading P.T.M. figures, the army has made clear that it will no longer tolerate the group. A military spokesman said that its members attacked and wounded security forces before any shooting started though the army has shown no evidence to counter witness accounts and videos largely pointing to the contrary. The military also accuses the protest movement of being a proxy for enemies in India and Afghanistan. New 100- and 200-euro bank notes entered circulation on Tuesday, completing the European Central Banks overhaul of paper money to make it easier to handle and more counterfeit-resistant. The new notes worth about $112 and $224 have a shinier finish and more security features, and are more durable than their predecessors, the central bank said. They are also vegan friendly, unlike the polymer bills released by the Bank of England in 2016 and 2017. A spokeswoman for the European Central Bank, which oversees the currency in the 19 European Union member countries that have adopted it, said that there was no evidence of any animal-based products in the bills raw materials. The paper we use in euro bank notes is made of 100 percent cotton fiber, she said, adding, The euro system is strongly committed to maintaining and improving the sustainability of the euro bank notes and the raw materials used. BERLIN Nontraditional and upstart political parties are threatening established, centrist parties across Europe, as returns from the European Parliament election underscored this week. Their rise is eating away at an increasingly endangered political establishment. Adding to the uncertainty is a generational divide clearly visible in the voting, in which the Greens drew significant support from younger voters. Germany is no exception. A national election is not scheduled until 2021, and Chancellor Angela Merkel has said she intends to serve out her full term. But in the aftermath of the European vote, the two parties in Germanys governing coalition are frustrated and weakened, and speculation is rising over how long their unpopular government can last. Support for both the chancellors conservative party and its center-left partners declined in the election. The chancellors party, the Christian Democrats, lost five seats, earning only 28.9 percent of the vote. Their partners, the Social Democrats, endured their worst national showing ever, with support from only 15.8 percent of the voters. ROME For nearly a year, Pope Francis remained mostly silent in the face of a searing accusation by a former papal ambassador to the United States that he knew, and did nothing about, the sexual misconduct of former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick a silence that fueled criticism that he was tone deaf on the issue of sex abuse that was plaguing his church. But in an interview published Tuesday, just weeks after Francis issued the first law requiring that officials in the Roman Catholic Church worldwide report cases of clergy sexual abuse to their superiors, he directly denied the accusation. About McCarrick I knew nothing. Obviously, nothing, nothing, he said in the wide-ranging interview with the Mexican television network Televisa, a transcript of which was also published by the Vaticans own news outlet, Vatican News. He added that before a church investigation reported the misconduct, I knew nothing, no idea. Last August, Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, a former ambassador to Washington, said that he had personally told Francis about penalties imposed on Mr. McCarrick, a former archbishop of Washington, by the popes predecessor, Benedict XVI. Christian Hart was killed when he was hit by a boat near the Goat Island area of Smith Lake, according to authorities. Earlier this month an Auburn man was killed on Lake Martin in a boating accident. David George Goodling, 56, was killed on a Friday night, May 3, and Norman Ray Harris, 62, of Leeds was injured in what Alabama Marine Patrol officers have determined was two separate collisions, involving three boats. That earlier incident remains under investigation. Also during the Memorial Day weekend, Sunday night in Georgia near LaGrange, authorities say a man drowned on a lake trying to save his father who walked out of their boat after a nap because he mistakenly thought he was home. Troup County Sheriff's Sgt. Stewart Smith said the two men were sleeping on their boat on West Point Lake near LaGrange. Smith told The LaGrange Daily News that the father woke up and thought he was home, walking right off the boat as he thought he was going to the bathroom. The 34-year-old son jumped in to rescue his father, but did not resurface, Smith said. Nearby boaters rescued the father. Barrett joined the Alabama Army National Guard in 2004 after leaving active duty and spent time in Afghanistan working with American soldiers as a combat advisor and a teacher to the growing Afghanistan National Army. During his deployments, three U.S. soldiers and 27 Afghani soldiers were killed. When I think of Memorial Day today, I think of these men, Barrett said. I have felt a lot of guilt over the years because I discovered something: As an older man going to war and being in charge, Im responsible for these guys. Im responsible to their families. 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Theres no question that artificial intelligence has come a long way in the last few years, but apparently its not yet advanced enough to tell the difference between someone using a mobile phone and someone scratching their face. Chinese media recently reported the case of a man in Jinan, eastern Shandong province, who received a notification that he had broken the law by talking on the phone while driving. The letter also had a surveillance picture of his so-called offence attached, which showed him holding his right hand to his cheek. Only the man didnt remember using his phone behind the wheel that day, and the picture didnt show a phone either, just his hand in an awkward position near his face. It turns out the motorist was just scratching his face when the picture was taken. Even so, he learned that he would receive two penalty points on his licence and be required to pay a 50 yuan ($7.25) fine. I often see people online exposed for driving and touching [others] legs, but this morning, for touching my face, I was also snapped breaking the rules! the Chinese driver wrote on Sina Weibo, also posting the surveillance photo as evidence. He added that he planned to go to the authorities and ask them to sort the situation, after no one was able to help him over the phone. After his story went viral on social media and was picked up by mainstream news outlets, the Jinan traffic authority cancelled the ticket and explained that the traffic surveillance system automatically identifies a drivers motion and then takes a photo, which is why his face scratching triggered the artificial intelligence-powered device. While some people agreed that the awkward position of his hand did make him look like he was holding an invisible phone, others expressed their concerns about Chinas ever-growing surveillance system. This is quite embarrassing, that monitored people have no privacy, one person commented. Chinese peoples privacy is that not an important issue? someone else wrote. The BBC reports that there are more than 170 million surveillance cameras in China, and the Government plans to install 400 million more by 2020. Many of them feature artificial intelligence -powered face recognition software. Edelman is providing PR support for New York City's beleaguered Economic Development Corp. in the aftermath of Amazon's high-profile abandonment of its massive Long Island City headquarters project. Crain's New York Business reports today that Amazon was just the biggest of recent setbacks suffered by the EDC. They include the multibillion-dollar Brooklyn-Queens Connector streetcar system that has gone nowhere, failure to develop a distribution center at the Brooklyn Army Terminal despite the need for warehouse space in the city and the inability to find a partner for a life-sciences campus. James Patchett, president of the 500-member EDC, told the City Council in March that his group's initiative to create 100K "good paying jobs" by 2027, as so far resulted in 3K positions. Critics fault New York mayor and presidential hopeful Bill de Blasio for failing to ride herd on the economic development agency. "I think the mayor doesn't have much interest in the EDC," said Kathryn Wylde, CEO of the Partnership for New York City told Crain's. "So there's not a lot of drive." Edelman is providing a temporary shot in the arm for the EDC's short-staffed PR department. 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. Local Enterprise Office Offaly can provide financial assistance to eligible businesses in the manufacturing or internationally traded services sectors. The funding can be used towards taking on staff, purchasing equipment and other business requirements. These grants are available for business start up and business expansion provided that the enterprise is eligible and capable of becoming commercially viable. Priming grants are start-up grants available to micro-enterprises within the first 18 months of start-up. To be eligible for this grant, the business must be located in Offaly and employ from one to 10 employees. Business Expansion grants are available to businesses in Offaly who are in growth phase after the initial 18 month start up period. As above, the business must employ between 1 and 10 full time employees. Business owners who have received grants in the past may re-apply as their business expands. Speaking about the funding, Orla Martin, Head of Enterprise explained, Local Enterprise staff are working with aspiring entrepreneurs and existing business owners on a day to day basis. At first hand, we can see the benefit of providing targeted financial assistance to a start-up or growing company. The application process is good for the client too, as it encourages them to see the strengths and any possible weaknesses in their business plan. Orla Martin acknowledged that not all businesses meet the criteria for grants, but added that there are alternatives. The Local Enterprise Office has a partnership agreement with Microfinance Ireland, providing business loans of up to 25,000. Sole Traders, Partnerships and Limited Companies with fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover of less than 2m are eligible to apply. Unlike some of the other financial supports available from the LEO, all business sectors are eligible to apply for Microfinance loans. Loans can be used to fund start-ups, existing and growth microenterprises and can be used for working capital or the hiring of new employees, the purchase of stock, equipment, machinery and business vehicles. The Local Enterprise Office is the one stop shop for anyone looking to start or grow a business. In addition to free information, advice and networking, the Local Enterprise Office provides subsidised enterprise training, mentoring and grant assistance to eligible businesses. If you would like to apply for any of the above grants, or require any further information, please contact the Local Enterprise Office on 057 9357480 or email info@leo.offalycoco.ie Dissension is also brewing over how far to go on drug prices. Staffers for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., are working on a plan, first reported by Politico, to allow Medicare to directly negotiate lower prices for at least 25 drugs a year, but that idea appears to be a non-starter among Republicans. But Alexander, Murray and others see opportunity on the margins, especially given the public's overwhelming concern about health-care costs consuming ever more household income. Alexander, who chairs the HELP Committee, said his goal is to move the draft legislation through the committee next month and get it to the Senate floor in July. "There's one issue I hear a lot about from Tennesseans, and it is, 'What are you going to do about the health-care costs I pay for out of my own pocket?' " Alexander said. "Well, we've got an answer." There's a fifth bipartisan effort in the wings. Sens. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and Ron Wyden, D-Ore., the leaders of the Senate Finance Committee, say they're partnering on a health package aimed at lowering drug prices. Grassley has said he wants to have that package ready by June. Three Nebraska women battling breast cancer will benefit from a local nonprofit's fundraising efforts. The organization, Pink Bandana, will award financial support to the women at its annual mud volleyball tournament. This year's recipients are Maya Wittmaack, Kate Gorman and Jenae Jindra. The Beat Breast Cancer Mud Volleyball Tournament, in its 12th year, is Pink Bandana's main fundraising event. The organization helps women in Nebraska ages 40 and under who are battling the disease. This year's tournament is July 13 in Prague, Nebraska. Organizers expect more than 250 teams. Between players and spectators, it's expected to bring about 3,000 people to the city, which is about an hour west of Omaha. Registration for the 256-team tournament opens June 4. Each of the three recipients will receive $10,000 to use how they choose. Wittmaack, 29, was diagnosed with breast cancer two months after getting married. The Springfield woman underwent eight rounds of chemotherapy. Part of the problem, analysts say, is economic. Rising inequality and stagnant wages have squeezed middle-class Americans, leaving them with less disposable income to spend on clothing and housewares. As a result, they are trading down from department stores to chains such as Target, Walmart and T.J. Maxx, where business is booming. Luxury players are doing OK, and discounters are doing OK, said Mark Cohen, director of retail studies for Columbia Business School and the former chief executive of Sears Canada. But the middle continues to be a killing ground, and I dont think thats going to change any time soon. New tariffs, he added, are likely to make matters worse for middle-of-the-road retailers. Executives at J.C. Penney, Kohls and Macys this month warned that the trade war may soon cut into profits as they pay 25 percent more to import items such as makeup, handbags and leather jackets. At the same time, cash-strapped consumers are likely to cut back on clothing and shoes as they pay more for groceries, toilet paper and other essentials. Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts avoided a potential battle with state lawmakers on Monday by signing a two-year, $9.3 billion budget package that bumps up property tax relief. Ricketts chose not to veto any provisions in the various bills that he signed Monday, an uncommon but not unprecedented move for a Nebraska governor. In a statement accompanying his decision to sign the bills, Ricketts touted the tax relief thats being provided, the $2 billion being spent on public schools and restrained spending. The budget sets Nebraska up for expanded relief in years to come, Ricketts said. The budget includes: A $51 million annual increase in the states Property Tax Credit Fund. The increase would provide about $20 more in property tax relief to the owner of a $100,000 home and about $24 more per $100,000 worth of farmland. The additional money brings the total available for property tax relief to $275 million per year. An annual increase in state spending of about 2.9%, less than the 3.1% increase the governor had proposed. Authorities were called to the lake about 10:30 a.m. Sunday. Sheriff's deputies were told that a person had fallen into the water and a second person went in to help the first person get out. Nicholas Rodriguez of Wayne drowned while trying to help his friend, officials said. Our community does not have a whole lot of affordable housing, unfortunately, she said. Theres some rentals, not many. Usually the ones open get picked up pretty fast. Price said, There is nothing. We have money to rent. You cant find anything. If we could get a house now, wed gladly take it. Tudie Wheeler, 61, lost his home in Hamburg and said looters have been picking through whats left behind. He and his wife, Cynthia, are disabled he has diabetes and requires oxygen, and she has heart problems. They live on fixed incomes. The couple initially stayed in two temporary shelters in Hamburg and have been living at Waubonsie for about 45 days with their two cats. They fear for their future: Will they find another affordable place to live? Theyd like to stay near Hamburg, where their doctors practice. If you dont find a place to live, were going to be out in the streets, Wheeler said. Every place in 100 square miles is rented, said Harvey, who was Wheelers neighbor in Hamburg and now in the campground. Hes paying $250 per week to rent a camper and said FEMA aid is helping some. The U.S. Storm Prediction Center said parts of southeast Nebraska and southwest Iowa are at risk for severe weather Tuesday afternoon, said Van DeWald, a Valley-based meteorologist with the National Weather Service. The greatest threat for storms will be around Nebraska City into southwest Iowa, he said. "Omaha is right on the northern edge of some of the stronger stuff," said DeWald, referring to hail, strong winds and possibly tornadoes. It will be "a very active day," he said. Omaha police reported several vehicles stalled in street flooding, including two vehicles near 50th and F Streets and another at the intersection of Saddle Creek Road and Hamilton Street. Before 7 a.m., a driver called 911 to say he couldn't get out of his car near 132nd Street and West Center Road because of high water. Reports of missing manhole covers also were coming in from across the city. Officers also reported numerous areas where street construction barricades had been blown over or were washed away. Traffic lights were without power at several locations, police reported, including 144th Street and Industrial Road and 66th and Harrison Streets. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for central Lancaster County at 5:10 a.m. Under deferred judgment, the judge dismisses the guilty charge if the defendant successfully completes the terms of the probation. Defendants have a strong incentive to complete the probation, since otherwise theyre declared guilty and face jail time. Eligibility for the program would be the same as for regular probation various felonies, including murder, would bar eligibility. The bill specifies that DUI and domestic violence offenses would automatically exclude an offender from consideration for deferred judgment. In addition, judges would have flexibility in deciding whether to use it in individual cases, looking at factors including public safety, the likelihood of rehabilitation, prior record of convictions, family circumstances, mental health and substance abuse history. State Sen. Steve Lathrop, chairman of the Judiciary Committee, has worked constructively with court system officials and other senators to simplify the process to keep the procedures manageable and efficient for the courts. That work has eliminated the need for additional state appropriations under the bill. Promoting prison alternatives in appropriate cases serves the public interest. Lathrop is right when he calls deferred judgment an important tool for judges. Gov. Pete Ricketts should give final approval so this approach can move forward. Catch the latest in Opinion Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly 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. The real litter nuisance The Omaha City Council needs to consider banning the sale of 50-milliliter bottles of alcohol in Omaha. I cannot count the number of these bottles I see on a run through my neighborhood; they can be found littering the streets, parking lots, trails and parks. Not only is this bad for the environment since they surely make their way into sewers, but it highlights a bigger problem in this city: drinking and driving. These small bottles that litter 42nd Street surely are not dropped by pedestrians on foot, but tossed from moving cars. Lets take a look at ridding the city of these bottles rather than plastic bags, which so many people reuse. The bottles demonstrate that not only do we have a litter problem in this city, but also a drinking and driving problem. Theresa Ellrott, Omaha Let the wind blow Recently, it was noted that Nebraska grew faster in wind energy production capacity than any other state in 2018. If you live almost anywhere in this state, its easy to understand why. The wind almost never stops blowing. The following editorial appeared in the Washington Post. Jan Karski, a Polish resistance soldier, witnessed the plight of Jews in the Warsaw Ghetto in 1942 and, disguised in a guards uniform, slipped unnoticed into a transit camp of prisoners being shipped to the Nazi concentration camp at Belzec. Karski recalled later: The chaos, the squalor, the hideousness of it all was simply indescribable. There was a suffocating stench of sweat, filth, decay, damp straw and excrement. Karski reported to President Franklin Roosevelt in July 1943 on the horrors he witnessed in occupied Poland, and much debate has focused on whether more action should have been taken to save the Jews. If there is a lesson today from this history, it must be applied to Xinjiang, where China is carrying out genocide of a peoples identity. Mosquito dunks are organic product that contains Bt, a natural mosquito larvicide, which kills mosquito larvae. Larson said the strain of Bt bacteria in dunk are specific to flies. Mosquitoes are a type of fly who when their larva ingest what dissolves from the dunk then you get control over them, Larson said. The more water there is, the more dunk you have to use, Larson said. There are other ways to deal with a mass influx bugs coming arriving with the summer weather. Everyone should be going and emptying out containers in their yard, he said. If you have a bird bath you should empty it out once a week and refill it and make sure to dump out any mosquito larva that are in there. He said you should also check to see if your gutters are clean and are flowing because if theres any back up water thats in there then it could be a mosquito breeding ground. People should wear their repellents, those are going to be very helpful in keeping the bites down, Larson said. Last rites of actor Puneeth Rajkumar held with full state honours at Kanteerava studio in Bengaluru Final goodbye to 'Appu': Family bid tearful farewell; Puneeth Rajkumar laid to rest beside his father's grave Gone too soon: From Puneeth Rajkumar to Sidharth Shukla, untimely deaths leave family and fans stunned 10 dead, several taken ill after drinking spurious liquor in UP's Barabanki India oi-PTI Barabanki, May 28: At least five people died and several others were taken ill after consuming spurious liquor in Ramnagar area of Barabanki district, police said Tuesday. The locals belonging to Raniganj and adjoining villages were taken ill after consuming liquor on Monday night and rushed to Ramnagar Community Health Centre (CHC), police said. While five of them died, some others were undergoing treatment at the CHC, they said. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken serious note of the incident and directed senior officials to reach the spot and take stern action against the guilty, a senior government official said. Cash, liquor three times more than 2014 elections The chief minister has also asked the principal secretary, excise, to conduct an inquiry and take action against all those responsible for it. PTI For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 12:53 [IST] Ruckus in Jharkhand assembly over namaz room: Speaker says 'Beat me but don't disrupt proceedings' 11 security personnel injured in IED explosion triggered by naxals at Jharkhand India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa New Delhi, May 28: At least 11 security personnel have been injured in a blast at Jharkhand. Reports state that 8 CoBRA personnel and three Jharkhand police personnel were injured in the explosion caused by an improvised explosive device (IED). After the blasts, naxals fired at the security personnel before escaping. The incident took place at 4.53 am at the Kuchai area of Saraikella. The target was the troops of the 209 COBRA and Jharkhand police who were on a special operation. Jharkhand: Five Naxals killed in encounter All the injured personnel have been airlifted to Ranchi for medical treatment. The entire area has been cordoned off and the evacuation process has been completed. Can't be disqualified as MLA, never quit from Congress: Alpesh Thakor Alpesh Thakor, Dhavalsinh Zala who cross-voted during RS polls to join BJP on Jul 15 Alpesh Thakors meeting with Gujarat deputy CM triggers talk of BJP entry India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa New Delhi, May 28: Former Congressman and Gujarat OBC leader Alpesh Thakor on Monday met deputy chief minister Nitin Patel, triggering speculation that he may join the ruling BJP. Thakor, the MLA from Radhanpur in Patan district, had quit the Congress before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Thakor met Patel at his Gandhinagar office for about about half an hour, BJP sources said. The OBC leader's associate and Congress MLA from Bayad Dhavalsinh Zala was also present at the meeting, they said. However, what transpired in the meeting was not known as both Thakor and Zala could not be contacted despite repeated attempts. Hardik Patel slams Alpesh Thakor, says he couldn't handle power given by Congress The BJP appeared reluctant to provide details and speculate on the OBC leader's future course of action. "There is no such development with regards to Alpesh Thakor (on joining the BJP) The meeting might be for some other reason as he is an MLA," state BJP spokesperson Bharat Pandya said. However, speculation is rife among sections in both the Congress and the BJP here that he may be headed towards the saffron camp. Thakor had resigned from the Congress in April, apparently after being unhappy with the local party leadership for not considering him for ticket from the Patan Lok Sabha seat. The Congress chose former MP Jagdish Thakor over him from Patan. The Congress had also ignored Thakor's demand for ticket to a member of his outfit, the Thakor Sena, from the Banaskantha Lok Sabha seat. After emerging as a prominent OBC leader in Gujarat, he had joined the opposition party before the 2017 state polls and won from the Radhanpur assembly seat. Will BJP benefit from Alpesh Thakor's Congress exit? Before quitting the Congress, he had met party president Rahul Gandhi and conveyed his displeasure against the functioning of the state leadership. The OBC leader, who continues to be MLA, had claimed his community and supporters were feeling "cheated" and "ignored" by the Congress. The BJP won all the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat in the just-concluded general election. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 6:22 [IST] Amid crisis, Sachin Pilot to chair Rajasthan PCC meet on Wednesday India oi-Vikas SV Jaipur, May 28: Amid political crisis in Rajasthan after LS polls debacle and rumours flying thick and fast that the ruling party MLAs were 'unhappy' with the Gehlot government, the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee will meet on Wednesday at party headquarters. The meeting will be presided by the Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot in which AICC general secretary Avinash Pandey and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot will also be present, a PTI report quoted party spokesperson as saying. The unrest in the party started after the May 23 Lok Sabha results in which PM Modi-led NDA stormed to power bagging 352 of the 542 LoK Sabha seats. For Congress it was a double blow as the party failed to cash in on the recent assembly wins in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh drawing a zero out of 25 in first and just one out of 29 in the second state. The development led to speculations of BSP withdrawing support to the government. [Congress biggies in huddle at Rahul's residents; Priyanka, Gehlot, Pilot present] Tomorrow's meeting will be the first executive committee meeting after the party's debacle in Lok Sabha polls wherein Congress could not win even a single seat out of the 25 parliamentary constituencies in the state. Party leaders said that the meeting will brainstorm on the reasons of party's poor performance in the recent polls. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 20:09 [IST] As BJP eyes on MP, Kamal Nath asks ministers to look after MLAs to prevent poaching India oi-PTI Bhopal, May 28: Days after the Lok Sabha poll results, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath has moved swiftly to keep his flock of Congress MLAs together to thwart any poaching attempt by a resurgent BJP. Nath, whose five-month-old government is surviving on a wafer-thin majority, has asked each of his Cabinet colleague to look after at least five legislators to check any desertion to the opposition camp, a Congress leader said on Monday. Apprehension about the government's stability has crept in the Congress after its humiliating defeat in the recently concluded general elections in Madhya Pradesh, where it won just one of the 29 parliamentary seats, conceding the rest to the BJP. Will BJP form government in Madhya Pradesh: Chouhan has this to say The BJP wrote a letter to the governor last week, requesting her to convene a special session of the assembly for testing the Nath government's strength on the floor of the House. "Nath ji has asked each of his 27 Cabinet colleague from his party to look after five legislators, the Congress leader told PTI. The ministers are going to act as the "guardian" to the legislators, he said. They will coordinate and ensure that development works in the constituencies of these MLAs are not hampered, the leader added. An Independent MLA, too, is part of Naths Cabinet. In the 2018 Assembly polls, the Congress had won 114 ofthe state's 230 seats, two short of the majority mark of 116. The BJP had bagged 109 seats. The Nath government is backed by two BSP MLAs, one legislator of the SP and four Independent lawmakers. The Congress came to power in Madhya Pradesh barely six months ago after a wait of 15 years. The Congress leader said Nath on Sunday asked ministers to look after MLAs after holding two meetings - one with his Cabinet colleagues and the other with all MLAs. At the meeting with Nath, the Congress MLAs aired their grievances related to ministers and the state bureaucracy, he said. The Chief Minister told the MLAs that he has asked his Cabinet colleagues to look into the issues raised by them, he said. Valued at Rs 6,60,19,46,757 Kamal Nath's son Nakul is richest MP Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargava of the BJP on May 20 wrote a letter to Governor Anandiben Patel, requesting her to convene a special session of the assembly to discuss the problems being faced by the state. According to Bhargava, the BJP will seek a division (voting) on financial matters in the House. If the Congress-led government fails to scrape through, it will collapse, he said on Monday. Nath has accused the BJP of luring his partys MLAs with money and posts to topple his government, a charge denied by the main opposition party. PTI Forces on high alert as terrorists in northeast play into Chinese hands Delhi on very high alert as ISI backed Khalistan forces look to infiltrate tractor parade Delhi on high alert as Pak terror groups look to strike Delhi ahead of Independence Day Punjab on high alert after tiffin box bomb found in Amritsar, apparently dropped by drone from Pak Boat with Islamic State terrorists: Cops seek information from locals India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, May 28: A high alert was sounded following intelligence reports that a boat carrying 15 Islamic State Terrorists had set off from Sri Lanka to Lakshadweep islands. In the wake of this alert, the Kerala police chief met with security officials to review the situation. The police is seeking information from the locals regarding the boat. The Navy, Coast Guard and Coastal police are maintaining a high level of surveillance off Kerala and Lakshadweep coasts. "The Navy and Coast Guard are maintaining vigil. Ships and aircraft have been engaged to ensure high level of coastal survillance", Naval sources said, on Sunday. High alert continues as agencies look for boat carrying ISIS terrorists Coastal police are also continuing their vigil. Kerala Police sources, on Saturday, said coastal police stations and coastal district police chiefs have been alerted. Though such alerts are a usual practice, as there is specific information, coastal police stations and police chiefs of coastal districts have been asked to be alert in case suspicious vessels are sighted. The Coastal police department said it was on alert since May 23, the day the alert came from Sri Lanka. After the serial bombings in Sri Lanka, Kerala was on alert, especially after NIA investigations revealed that IS operatives had planned attacks in the State. Indian Coast Guard on high alert after Sri Lanka blasts that killed 290 Intelligence agencies believe that a considerable number of Keralities are still with the ISIS, which was recently wiped out from Iraq and Syria. Sri Lanka witnessed a deadly terror attack on April 21 when eight blasts rocked the island nation, claiming over 250 lives. The Islamic State had claimed responsibility for the incident. Can't be disqualified as MLA, never quit from Congress: Alpesh Thakor Alpesh Thakor, Dhavalsinh Zala who cross-voted during RS polls to join BJP on Jul 15 Chemical locha in their minds: Alpesh Thakor slams Congress leaders India oi-Deepika S Gandhinagar, May 28: Gujarat OBC leader Alpesh Thakor on Tuesday slammed the Congress saying the party has no people but is full of 'chela chapatas'. Thakor, the MLA from Radhanpur in Patan district, had quit the Congress before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. "Congress failed to understand what people want. They only repeatedly shouted ''ghotala hua, ghotala hua'' (scam happened, scam happened). There was no scam, the scam was in their minds, the "chemical locha" was in their minds," said Alpesh Thakor while talking to ANI. "We want to work for our people and the poor with the help of the government... wait and watch, more than 15 legislators are leaving Congress, everyone is distressed. More than half of the legislators are upset," Thakor claimed. The OBC leader met Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel, triggering speculation that he may join the ruling BJP. Alpesh Thakor's meeting with Gujarat deputy CM triggers talk of BJP entry However, what transpired in the meeting was not known as both Thakor and Zala could not be contacted despite repeated attempts. The BJP appeared reluctant to provide details and speculate on the OBC leader's future course of action. However, speculation is rife among sections in both the Congress and the BJP here that he may be headed towards the saffron camp. The BJP won all the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat in the just concluded general elections. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 16:23 [IST] Cong will have to adopt BJP's strategy of strengthening regional leaders: Harish Rawat Congress flag falls off while being hoisted by interim president Sonia Gandhi [Video] Divisive ideologies anchored in hate causing havoc on secular fabric of our society: Sonia Gandhi Keep UP Additional Chief Home Secretary Awasthi away from poll process: Cong to EC Congress biggies in huddle at Rahul's residents; Priyanka, Gehlot, Pilot present India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, May 28: Amid Congress attempts to persuade Rahul Gandhi to continue as party president after its national election rout, senior party leaders, including his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his deputy Sachin Pilot met him on Tuesday. Uttar Pradesh Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi, Ashok Gehlot, Randeep Singh Surjewala, Sachin Pilot and others have reached Rahul Gandhi's residence to discuss the major crisis that has hit Congress. Rahul's trusted aide K C Venugopal also met the party president at his Tughlaq Lane residence. Rahul Gandhi plans to visit Wayanad in first week of June After Saturday's Congress Working Committee (CWC) meet on Saturday, the Congress leadership announced that Rahul Gandhi had offered to resign but the party refused to accept it. The election results have triggered a crisis in the Congress party, with several state and local leaders sending in their resignations taking responsibility for the poll loss. Rahul's offer of resignation was expected and so was the CWC's rejection. However, Rahul insisting on stepping down has caught the party in a surprise. If Rahul refuses to relent, the CWC - expected to meet again this week - will have no option but to discuss his possible successor. Meanwhile, amid the continuing leadership crisis, the Congress party has issued a gag order to its leaders, asking them not to speak to the media. Separately, Modi will sworn-in as the prime minister on May 30. As per reports, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba may be appointed as next Cabinet Secretary, replacing P K Sinha, whose four year tenure comes to an end on June 12. Will always be with you to fight injustice: Rahul Gandhi to media Congress in a spot of bother as Rahul insists on quitting India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, May 28: Rahul Gandhi continues to insist that he would resign as the Congress party chief. On Monday, he refused to meet with party leaders amidst a spate of resignations tendered by various state unit chiefs. He also refused to meet with Rajasthan Chief Minister, Ashok Gehlot, who has been accused of focusing largely on the campaign of his son, Vaibhav at the cost of the Congress party candidates. Rahul however met with senior Congress leaders, Ahmed Patel and K C Venugopal and insisted that he was keen on quitting the top post. On Saturday at the Congress Working Committee meeting, Rahul expressed unhappiness over the party's performance and also pointed out how some Congress leaders had insisted on fielding their kin in the Lok Sabha elections. Sons before party, selfish motives: Some of the problems of Congress The Congress has issued a statement that it has authorised its President to carry out radical changes in the party. On the other hand, Sonia Gandhi has advised party workers to continue working for the Congress and not get demoralised with the defeat of the party in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 5:57 [IST] Keep UP Additional Chief Home Secretary Awasthi away from poll process: Cong to EC Congress workers too didnt take NYAY seriously India oi-Hardeep Singh Bedi New Delhi, May 28: A publicity agency of the Congress has told party high command that even the Congress workers didn't take Nyuntam Aay Yojna (NYAY) or minimum income guarantee seriously during Lok Sabha campaigning, say sources. On March 26, Congress president Rahul Gandhi announced that 20 per cent of the poorest families in the country would be annually given Rs. 72,000 each under the NYAY, if his party is voted to power. While releasing the Congress manifesto, his main focus was on NYAY. He said, "Narendra Modi said he deposit Rs 15 lakh in every bank account after bringing back black money. We all know that was a lie. We didn't lie but did the groundwork and arrived at the figure of Rs 72,000 per year; Rs 3,60,000 in five years. This will go directly to their accounts. And this will help remonetize what Modi had demonetised." Congress in a spot of bother as Rahul insists on quitting The 55-page document titled 'Hum Nibhayenge' (We will Fulfil) made other appealing promises like, filling up 22 lakh government vacancies, bringing a separate budget for farmers and fixing a single moderate Good and Services Tax (GST) rate. A source tells OneIndia that the agency has told Congress high command in plain words that had the Congress workers taken NYAY seriously, the results would have been different. The agency is of the view that only publicity on social media and media platforms can't guarantee success. The basic ingredient for the success of any political campaign is the active participation of the party workers. The Congress lacks dedicated workers and it's nowhere near to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has around 11 crore active members. The other problem with the party is that everyone considers itself as a leader and not a worker. "Though the NYAY was a lucrative offer but it lacked a blueprint. The Congress workers were directed to highlight Rs 72000 in their campaigning but they weren't trained to answer counter questions. Even senior Congress leaders gave conflicting statements," says a party insider. "After the success of farm loan waiver promise in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh assembly elections; Rahul Gandhi was convinced by party strategists that a populist manifesto was must for winning elections," adds the insider. It's notable that initially Rahul was in favour of a realistic party manifesto but he changed his mind after the results of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh wherein the Congress rode into power by ousting the BJP governments. Angus Deaton, the British economist who won the Nobel Prize in 2015, and French economist Thomas Piketty, economist Abhijit Banerjee, and former Reserve Bank of India governor Raghuram Rajan had reportedly advised the Congress on NYAY. Sons before party, selfish motives: Some of the problems of Congress While the buoyant Congress believed that the NYAY will ride it into power, the economists questioned the scheme by saying that if implemented, it would have catastrophic effects on the Indian economy. A depressed Congress leader laments that nobody in the party had ever thought that with such a populist manifesto only eight seats will be added to the Congress' 2014 tally. He says even in the worst scenario we were expecting that the Congress would win more than 100 seats. From Rajasthan to Karnataka: Congress on the edge post poll debacle India oi-Vikas SV By Vishal S New Delhi, May 28: The grand old party seems to be in a total disarray post debacle in Lok Sabha elections and the Congress' top leadership will have to do a lot to keep the flock together. The voices of discontent leaders making open remarks about state leadership and demanding that accountability for the loss be fixed is something the party will have to deal with carefully. Whether Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh or Karnataka, the Congress is on the edge and it is now for the veterans to stock of the situation and address concerns raised by the leaders. Congress chief Rahul Gandhi has offered resignation over party's election performance and the CWC does not want him to step down. He appears to be adamant and seniors leaders head for his residence to convince him. Rahul at the CWC meet had reportedly blamed some leaders for putting their sons above the party. He reportedly expressed unhappiness at Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot spending a week in Jodhpur to campaign for his son and neglecting the state. Crisis in Rajasthan: Now, many reports claim that some leaders are saying that Sachin Pilot should have been made chief minister instead of Ashok Gehlot. The Congress in Rajasthan has called for a state executive meeting on Wednesday in which a resolution requesting Congress president Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his resignation is likely to be adopted. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had won all 25 Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan, less than six months after the Congress wrested power from BJP in state. [BJP's victory, explained in numbers] Rajasthan BJP leaders are reportedly saying that several ruling party MLAs were 'unhappy' and the government 'might fall'. The unrest in the party started after the May 23 Lok Sabha results in which PM Modi-led NDA stormed to power bagging 352 of the 542 LoK Sabha seats. For Congress it was a double blow as the party failed to cash in on the recent assembly wins in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh drawing a zero out of 25 in first and just one out of 29 in the second state. The development led to speculations of BSP withdrawing support to the government. Crisis in Karnataka Congress: In Karnataka, amid reports of a rift between ruling coalition partners Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) in Karnataka, Congress general secretary in-charge of the state K C Venugopal is rushing to Bengaluru to sort things out. A meeting of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) in Karnataka has been convened, which will take stock of the ongoing political developments in the southern state, triggering speculation about the future of its coalition government, a PTI report said.. Top Karnataka Congress leaders will take stock of the situation in the state and seek to unite all partymen to ensure that there is no threat to the coalition government. Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad was also supposed to attend the meeting, but he cancelled his Bengaluru visit in view of the situation prevailing within the party after its president Rahul Gandhi offered to resign. Voices of dissent are gaining ground within the Congress in Karnataka as two of its MLAs met former chief minister S M Krishna at his Bengaluru residence on Sunday. [Amid crisis, Sachin Pilot to chair Rajasthan PCC meet on Wednesday] The coalition government in the southern state has been fragile since its inception with reports of its collapse surfacing every then and now. Following the drubbing of the Congress-JD(S) combine in the just-concluded Lok Sabha election, where the two parties managed to win only one seat each in Karnataka, a senior Congress leader has claimed that the state government will collapse after June 10. The BJP, with 105 MLAs, is the single-largest party in the 225-member Karnataka Assembly. The ruling coalition has 117 members -- 79 of the Congress, 37 of the JD(S) and one of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). OneIndia News with PTI inputs For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 22:19 [IST] Girlfriends, fancy clothes, gadgets: Why many Hizbul terrorists pick the gun India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, May 28: A recent confession by a terrorist in the Valley gave the clear indication that many who are part of the Hizbul Mujahideen took up guns with the sole intention of impressing girls. It is an interesting confession to re-visit looking at the fall of Zakir Musa, who too had taken up arms with the sole intention of impressing women. It has been learnt that one of his two girlfriends had leaked information about his whereabouts, which led to his location where he was finally killed. Danish Ahmed, who had surrendered had told the police, "Most youth pick up the gun to impress girls. He says that many local girls treat these youth as heroes. With a gun in hand, they feel strong and powerful and this impresses many girls," he says. He goes on to add that the likes of Reyaz Naikoo and Zakir Musa and Abu Dujana have multiple girlfriends." Love, betrayal and solid intelligence: How Zakir Musa was gunned down He said that these persons project themselves as Robin Hood before the girls in a bid to impress them. He further says that not all the money looted by the militants goes into funding the terror organisation. He says that in most cases the money looted from banks or got from extortion is used to buy fancy gadgets and expensive clothes." For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 15:34 [IST] Attack on Jaganmohan Reddy an attempt to murder him, says remand report Here is why BJP and Jagan Reddy are wooing each other India oi-Hardeep Singh Bedi New Delhi, May 28: The 2019 Lok Sabha election results have shocked many political parties as their betes noires have performed very well. Andhra Pradesh is one of the states where this has happened. The ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) led by N. Chandrababu Naidu has been grounded in the state. It not only lost the Lok Sabha elections but also the Assembly elections. The new star in the state's politics is Yuvajana Sramika Raithu Congress Party (YSRCP) leader Jaganmohan Reddy, a.k.a. Jagan. The YSRCP has won 22 Lok Sabha seats out of the 25 seats in the state. The remaining seats are bagged by the TDP. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress couldn't win a single seat. After win, Jagan Reddy says 'Will remind PM Modi 40, 50 times' on Andhra special status In 2014, the YSRCP had won 08 , TDP 16 and the BJP 02 seats. Jagan's party bagged 151 seats in the 175-seat Andhra Pradesh Assembly, its best-ever performance so far. The TDP registered its worst-ever performance and managed to win only 23 seats and one was won by Jana Sena Alliance. Again the BJP and the Congress couldn't win a single Assembly seat. In the outgoing Andhra Pradesh Assembly, the TDP had 103 and YSRCP 67 MLAs. To understand why Jagan and the BJP are a perfect match, one needs to revisit history. Jagan is the son of former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy (popularly known as YSR). The Congress' chief minister was so popular that over 100 people in Andhra Pradesh committed suicide after he died in a helicopter crash on September 2, 2009. Jagan, who was a Congress MP from Kadapa, was the first choice of the Congress MLAs and Cabinet Ministers for the post of Chief Minister. However, then Congress President Sonia Gandhi didn't allow it and made an old loyalist with no mass base K Rosaiah as the new chief minister of the state. Jagan was disappointed but six months after his father's death, he began an odarpu yatra (condolence tour) as promised earlier to go and meet the families of those alleged to have either committed suicide or suffered ill health on the news of his father's death. Sonia Gandhi was very upset and she summoned Jagan's mother and sister in Delhi in 2010 and told them to pressurise Jagan to stop his condolence tour. When Jagan heard this, he told his family and friends that he would be floating his own party to teach the Gandhi family a lesson. He resigned from the Congress, floated YSRCP and won the Kadapa Lok Sabha by-poll and swept Assembly by-poll by winning 15 seats in 2011. This had alarmed the Gandhi family. In 2102, Jagan and several of his close associates were sent to jail in a disproportionate assets case. His family cried foul play and alleged Sonia Gandhi was behind this political vendetta. He spent 18 months in jail and was released on bail in September 2013. Now, he will be sworn-in as Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister on May 30 at IGM Stadium in Vijayawada, which is scheduled for 12.23 pm. On Sunday, Jagan met Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi and invited him for the swearing-in ceremony. Later, he also met BJP President Amit Shah. Jagan meets Modi after massive win, discusses Andhra special status, finances Since Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony is also scheduled to take place on Thursday evening therefore he is unlikely to go. However, Jagan will attend Modi's swearing-in ceremony after taking oath as Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister. Jagan along with Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) Chief K Chandrasekhar Rao wanted to play an important role in the formation of a Central government in case of a hung parliament, but that didn't happen. He has also said on record that he was praying for a hung parliament and had BJP got around 250 seats then he would have supported the BJP only after getting a written assurance of granting special status to Andhra Pradesh. It's notable that BJP's former partner Chandrababu Naidu had severed relations with the Modi government at its fag end on the issue of special status to Andhra Pradesh. According to sources, though the BJP didn't get any success in Andhra Pradesh but it is happy that Naidu's TDP too has been dusted. "YSRCP's success is a boon for the BJP. A powerful Naidu would have been a problem for it. The BJP is aware of Jagan's animosity with the Congress and would like to use his strength in Andhra Pradesh Assembly for its benefit in the Rajya Sabha, where it is in the minority. Jagan also realises the need of the BJP and his own limitations while dealing with a majority government at Centre," says a source. "BJP President Amit Shah praising Jagan on May 23; Jagan meeting Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi and Shah; and the YSRC chief attending Modi's swearing-in ceremony are indications that both the parties are wooing each other," says a source. "Jagan has also won Lok Sabha and Assembly elections by making various promises; therefore it is in his interest to maintain friendly relations with the Centre. The new government would like to pass important Bills in the Rajya Sabha and Jagan's party could be helpful. The present political situation is that both need each other and would be scratching each other's back as and when required," adds the source. Four Rajya Sabha seats from Andhra Pradesh will fall vacant next year. The term of TDP's Thota Seetharama Lakshmi, Congress' Mohd. Ali Khan; T. Subbarami Reddy, and TRS' K. Keshava Rao is ending on April 9, 2020. Currently, the YSRCP has two Rajya Sabha MPs: V. Vijaysai Reddy and Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 6:49 [IST] Indian doctor shot dead in US by former colleague Arrangements done for evacuation of Indians from Hurricane-hit Sint Maarten Indian stranded abroad will pay for their own flights says Hardeep Puri IAF all-women crew flies Mi-17 chopper for first time India oi-PTI Chandigarh, May 28: In yet another feat by women officers, an all-woman crew on Monday flew a medium-lift helicopter for the first time in India, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said. Flight Lieutenant Parul Bhardwaj (Captain), Flying Officer Aman Nidhi (co-pilot) and Flight Lieutenant Hina Jaiswal (Flight Engineer) flew the chopper, which took off from a forward air base in South Western air command, a defence release said. "The all women crew flew a Mi-17 V5 helicopter for a Battle Inoculation Training mission taking off and landing from restricted areas at a forward air base in South Western air command," it said. IAF Abhinandan Varthaman gets 'Falcon Slayer', 'AMRAAM Dodgers' patch to mark F-16 kill Flt Lt Parul Bhardwaj hails from Mukerian in Punjab and is incidentally also the first woman pilot to fly the Mi-17 V5, while Flight Lieutenant Hina Jaiswal from Chandigarh is the first woman flight engineer of the Indian Air Force (IAF), the release said. Flying officer Aman Nidhi hails from Ranchi, Jharkhand and is also the first woman IAF pilot from the state, it added. The pilots had undergone their basic flying training at the Helicopter Training School at Air Force Station Hakimpet followed by advanced training at Air Force Station Yelahanka. The helicopter was certified airworthy by Squadron Leader Richa Adhikari the unit Engineering officer, the release said. This is yet another achievement of women officers in the IAF, it added. PTI For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 8:32 [IST] IAF gets its first fleet of 8 Apache attack choppers Here is why the Rafale Jets will fly with the initials BS The Message of Balakot: Dont mess with us IAF proposal to strike Pakistan post 26/11 was rejected says former IAF chief One year of Balakot airstrike: 'It marks paradigm shift in our operations', says Ex-IAF chief Dhanoa IAF chief leads missing man formation for Kargil martyrs India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa New Delhi, May 28: Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa on Monday flew the 'missing man' formation in a MiG-21 aircraft to pay tributes to Squadran Leader Ajay Ahuja and other fallen heroes of the Kargil war. He was accompanied by Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) Western Air Command Air Marshal R Nambiar in the flypast organised at Air Force Station in Bhisiana here. The 'missing man' formation is an aerial salute accorded to honour the fallen comrades-in-arms. It is an arrow formation, with a gap between two aircraft in the formation depicting the missing man, the IAF said in a statement. Timely induction of Rafale jets would have boosted Balakot airstrike: BS Dhanoa The Chief of the Air staff, led a four aircraft, MiG-21 'missing man' formation flypast to honour the valour and supreme sacrifice of men killed in action during 'Operation Safed Sagar' at Kargil, an IAF spokesperson said. Later, in a sombre ceremony, he laid a wreath at the War Memorial to honour the IAF men who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja had laid down his life during the Kargil conflict. He was at that time the Flight Commander of 17 Squadron and was awarded the Vir Chakra posthumously for his valour during the conflict which took place 20 years ago. Rafale would significantly bolster India's air defence capabilities: IAF Chief On the occasion Alka Ahuja, widow of Ajay Ahuja, also paid tributes to the late IAF officer. On May 28, the air chief will visit Air Force Station in Sarsawa, Uttar Pradesh and fly in a Mi-17 V5 'missing man' formation to commemorate the Kargil martyrs. Jharkhand: 15 security personnel injured in series of IED blasts India pti-PTI Ranchi, May 28: Fifteen security personnel were injured when Maoists triggered a series of IED blasts near Hurda forests in Jharkhand's Seraikela-Kharsawan district in the early hours of Tuesday, a police officer said. The blasts took place around 5 am when a joint team of the CRPF's special jungle warfare unit, CoBRA, and police was carrying out anti-Naxal operations in the forests of Kuchai area in the district, he said. "Fifteen security men were injured when the Maoists triggered more than 15 IED blasts. Two of the injured are in a serious condition," Inspector General of Police (Operation) Ashish Batra said. [11 security personnel injured in IED explosion triggered by naxals at Jharkhand] The injured troops, 13 belonging to the CRPF's CoBRA battalion and the rest to the Jharkhand Armed Police and the district police, were airlifted to Ranchi, another senior officer said. Superintendent of Police of Seraikela-Kharsawan, Chandan Kumar Sinha, said the Maoists team, headed by Maharaj Pramanik, was involved in the IED blasts. He said that after the IED blasts a gun fight took place with some Naxalites being shot at, but they managed to flee into the dense forest. The officer said all the injured were taken to a hospital in Ranchi, adding four of them suffered minor injuries. Seraikela Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Avinash Kumar said all the injured were out of danger. This is the third incident of blast in the district this month. Earlier, the rebels triggered 21 IED blasts in the forests of the district and then set ablaze to a BJP office. PTI How Khalistan terrorists in Canada are effecting targeted killings in Punjab J&K: Two terrorists killed in encounter in Anantnag India oi-Madhuri Adnal Srinagar, May 28: At least two terrorists have been killed after a fierce encounter with security forces at Kazhwan forest area near Khundru in Anantnag in South Kashmir on Tuesday. Security forces gunned down two Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists in the encounter. The two terrorists had initially been trapped in the area during the encounter. "A brief exchange of firing took place between militants and security forces in Kachwan forest area of Kokernag in Anantnag district," a police official said. Kashmir's top terrorist Zakir Musa killed in Tral encounter The encounter comes hours after suspected terrorists shot dead a 39-year-old man in Babagund area of Handwara in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district on Monday evening. Earlier, one of the most wanted terrorists, Zakir Musa was killed in an encounter with security forces in Tral in Pulwama. Musa was the head of al Qaeda linked Ansar Ghazwat-ul Hind. Last week, General Officer Commanding in Chief, Northern Command, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh had claimed that security situation in the Valley is 'under control' and that as many as 86 terrorists were killed in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019 alone. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 16:18 [IST] Omicron Scare: Karnataka CM calls for an emergency meeting tomorrow, more curbs likely Vaccination for children in Karnataka: We'll organise drives at schools, says CM Bommai Night Curfew in Karnataka from Today: Timings, Rules, What is Open, What is Closed Karnataka JDS-Cong government may go for cabinet expansion to save alliance India oi-Deepika S Bengaluru, May 28: Under pressure to save the one-year-old Congress-JD(S) alliance, the Karnataka government is likely to reshuffle the cabinet this week and avoid poaching from the BJP. According to reports, some Ministers may be asked to step down to make way for disgruntled legislators, with an aim to keep the government safe. The Karnataka cabinet which met after the coalition's rout in the Lok Sabha polls, had discussed the issue, which may also come up at the Congress Legislature Party meeting on Wednesday and AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal's meeting with Congress ministers this evening. BJP storms Karnataka, but South India remains unconquered frontier Out of 34 ministers, Congress and JD(S) have 22 and 12 respectively according to the coalition understanding. Currently, three posts are vacant, two from JD(S) and one from Congress. Amid simmering discontent within the Congress, coalition leaders fear the BJP, spurred by the Lok Sabha poll outcome in which it bagged 25 of the 28 seats in the state, may poach some MLAs. Rebel Congress MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi's visit to senior BJP leader S M Krishna's residence here in the presence of party state chief B S Yeddyurappa on Sunday had fuelled the speculation. Jarkiholi, who has been hobnobbing with the BJP for some time, had threatened to resign from the party along with some MLAs after the Lok Sabha polls. BJP gets over 51 per cent vote share in Karnataka, highest ever since 1984 The BJP had predicted the collapse of the coalition and increase in its tally in the assembly after the LS poll results, claiming that 20-odd Congress MLAs were unhappy and may take any decision anytime. Coalition partners Congress and JD(S) managed to win one seat each in the Lok Sabha polls. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 16:54 [IST] Omicron Scare: Karnataka CM calls for an emergency meeting tomorrow, more curbs likely Vaccination for children in Karnataka: We'll organise drives at schools, says CM Bommai Night Curfew in Karnataka from Today: Timings, Rules, What is Open, What is Closed Karnataka told to release 9.19 tmc of water to Tamil Nadu India oi-PTI Bengaluru, May 28: The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) on Tuesday asked Karnataka to release 9.19 thousand million cubic (TMC) water to the lower riparian states for June. The decision to release the water was taken by the CWMA which was attended by the representatives of the Centre and the riparian states -- Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Puducherry. "The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) has taken a decision for the release of 9.19 TMC of water by Karantaka at the Biligundlu site for June this year," S Masood Husain, the chairman of the CWMA. Karnataka JDS-Cong government may go for cabinet expansion to save alliance Several parts of Tamil Nadu are grappling with acute water shortage. The Centre had last week also issued a drought advisory to the state in the backdrop of depleting water levels in its reservoirs. As terrorists lose big in Kashmir, Pak looks to push in the old guard Zakir Musas successor Lelhari bites the bullet: The terror market in Kashmir is less crowded now Love, betrayal and solid intelligence: How Zakir Musa was gunned down India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, May 28: It was a case of love and intelligence which finally led to the end of dreaded terrorist Zakir Musa in Jammu and Kashmir. Zakir Musa, one of the most dangerous terrorists, who had broken away from the Hizbul Mujahideen to form the Ansar Ghazwatul Hind, an Al-Qaeda linked outfit in the Kashmir Valley was killed in the encounter on Thursday. It required a lot of planning to get to Musa, who had been on the run for several years now. He had successfully managed to give the agencies the slip and was becoming an extremely dangerous. However like several others terrorists in the Valley, Musa too had a weakness for women. The agencies learnt that he had two girlfriends and this came in handy to get to the man. One of the girlfriends, obviously upset with being two-timed, leaked information regarding Musa's whereabouts to the agencies. This led to his precise tracking, following which he was killed in the encounter. Killed in the nick of time: How gunning down Zakir Musa, destroyed an Al-Qaeda dream in India It may be recalled that Samir Tiger and Burhan Wani too had met their fates due to their girlfriends. Intelligence Bureau officials tell OneIndia that many terrorists, especially those part of the Hizbul Mujahideen take up arms to impress girls. Flashing a gun and posing for a photograph incidentally gives many Kashmiri youth an adrenaline rush. The officer also said that there are many terrorists who have picked up guns to impress girls, but their downfall too has come about due to this. The officer said that like Musa, others such as Reyaz Naikoo and Abu Dujana too have had multiple girlfriends. One of them is expected to get upset and give out the information regarding their location, which has come in handy for us, the officer also noted. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 14:33 [IST] We don't have even 2 minutes to waste, must strive religiously for self-reliant nation: PM Modi PM Modi likely to address rally in Punjab on January 5, may share stage with Amarinder Modi pays tributes Veer Savarkar, says he epitomises courage, commitment towards Nation India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, May 28: Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi paid his tribute to the Indian independence activist and the formulator of the Hindutva philosophy, Veer Damodar Savarkar on the birth anniversary. Taking to Twitter, Modi said,''Savarkar's character was full of specialties. He was a devotee of both health (swastha) and (shastra). Savarkar means tej, Savarkar means sacrifice (tyag), Savarkar means dedication(tap), Savarkar means tarangi, Savarkar means til, Savarkar means strength (talwar). Veer Savarkar is remembered for his courage and fight against the British. But apart from this, he was also a great poet and social reformer who always emphasize harmony and unity. He took poetry and revolution together. Apart from being a poet with sensibilities, he was a courageous revolutionary." Modi, Sonia, Rahul pay homage to Nehru on his 55th death anniversary Home Minister Rajnath Singh also paid his tribute to the freedom fighter Savarkar. Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, also known as Veer Savarkar, is a polarising figure in India history. The freedom fighter was born on May 28, 1883, and was a lawyer by profession. People know him as a Hindutvavadi (a proponent of Hinduism), but Savarkar looked at Hindu philosophy through the eyes of pragmatism and worked towards reforming Hinduism. Modi, Shah meeting ahead of swearing-in lasts for nearly 5 hours India pti-PTI New Delhi, May 28: BJP president Amit Shah on Tuesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leaders are understood to have discussed the contours of the new government which will be sworn in on Thursday. There is a view within the BJP that Shah may join the government after playing a crucial role in the party's return to power with an unprecedented majority. Shah has refrained from commenting on the matter. Though there was no official word on what transpired in their meeting but both leaders are believed to have discussed the formation of the second Modi government, including choices for ministerial berths and portfolios. Sources suggested the new council of ministers will reflect the saffron party's rise in strength in states like West Bengal and Telangana. Many leaders are of the view that most key members of the previous dispensation could be retained. There has been speculation that Arun Jaitley, who held the finance portfolio in he previous government, may opt out due to health reasons but people close to him have insisted that he has been doing well after undergoing treatment. [BJP's victory, explained in numbers] A number of senior faces from the outgoing cabinet including Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Nirmala Sitharaman, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Piyush Goyal, Narendra Singh Tomar and Prakash Javadekar are expected to figure in the new cabinet. As far as allies are concerned, both the Shiv Sena and the JD(U) are expected to get two berths (one cabinet and one MoS) each, while the LJP and the SAD may be given one berth each. Many leaders are of the view that most key members of the previous dispensation could be retained. Lok Janshakti Party on Tuesday passed a resolution, recommending its president Ram Vilas Paswan as the party's representative in the Modi government. [BJP to aim for 220 plus seats in next WB assembly polls, says Vijayvargiya] The AIADMK, which was also not part of the previous government, won only one seat. It may be given a ministerial berth as it is in power in Tamil Nadu and a key Dravidian ally of the BJP. PTI BJP-ruled states slashes petrol, diesel rates further: New price to come into effect from today NIA convicts NDFB (S) cadres in connection with killing of innocent tribals India oi-Vicky Nanjappa Guwahati, May 28: The Special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Assam has convicted four persons belonging to the NDFB(S) in connection with the killing of 5 innocent tribals. The four were convicted under the sections of the UAPA and Indian Penal Code. Those convicted include Bina Basumatary, Jayanta Mushahary, Khanda Daimary and Dwithai Basumatary. All have been sentenced to 5 years imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10,000 each has been imposed. The case pertains to the terrorist attack on December 23, 2014 by NDFB(S) cadres upon innocent people of Pakiriguri village under Serfanguri Police Station in Kokrajhar district of Assam, in which five Adivasis were killed and another five sustained grievous injuries due to indiscriminate firing by the terrorist group. Chirag Paswan thanks PM Modi for Padma honour for his late father Not Chirag, Ram Vilas Paswan is LJPs choice for ministerial berth India oi-PTI New Delhi, May 28: BJP ally Lok Janshakti Party on Tuesday passed a resolution, recommending its president Ram Vilas Paswan's name as the party's representative in the Modi government. LJP leader Chirag Paswan told reporters that the party's parliamentary board unanimously passed a resolution to this effect at a meeting attended by all its six MPs and other senior office bearers. He also played down reports that Ram Vilas Paswan, who is a Cabinet minister in the outgoing government, had pushed for his name in the new Council of Ministers, saying it was more out of fatherly feelings. Chirag is son of Ram Vilas Paswan. 'Could not even get Leader of Opposition chair': Ram Vilas Paswan mocks Congress' defeat Narendra Modi will be sworn as prime minister for a second term on May 30. Chirag Paswan said it was Modi's prerogative to decide who will be the ministers in his government, but the LJP would like to be represented by Ram Vilas Paswan in the new government. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 14:53 [IST] Will always be with you to fight injustice: Rahul Gandhi to media Rahul Gandhi plans to visit Wayanad in first week of June India oi-Madhuri Adnal Thiruvananthapuram, May 28: Even as media is agog with reports of Rahul Gandhi being firm on his decision to quit the post of Congress president, reports on Tuesday said that he would visit Wayanad in the first week of June to thank the electorate for his record breaking win from this Lok Sabha seat in Kerala. Gandhi had won with the highest ever margin of victory in any Lok Sabha election with 4,31,770 votes. He defeated his nearest rival P P Suneer of the Communist Party of India who secured 2,74,597 votes while Gandhi received 7,06,367 votes. Earlier on Monday, the Congress had issued a statement urging the media not to speculate on what transpired at the Congress Working Committee Congress (CWC) meeting. 'Congress workers too didn't take NYAY seriously' The statement by the party's senior leader Randeep Surjewala comes as the party is under immense pressure following its decimation in the national elections and the decision of its chief Rahul Gandhi to quit the post. Meanwhile, since Saturday, all meetings and appointments of the Congress chief have been cancelled. He has even refused to meet the party's newly-elected lawmakers who have called on him. Some reports suggested that Rahul has assured he would continue as the party chief till his successor is found. However, finding a successor also will not be easy because of the reported distrust among senior leaders. Will always be with you to fight injustice: Rahul Gandhi to media Rahul's offer to resign suicidal: Lalu Prasad India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, May 28: Rahul Gandhi's offer to step down as Congress president will be suicidal not just for his own party but also all opposition, said jailed Rashtriya Janata Dal leader and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav on Tuesday. "Rahul's offer to resign suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India," Lalu Prasad, who is in jail since last year in the Fodder scam case, tweeted. Congress in a spot of bother as Rahul insists on quitting Lalu Prasad's RJD, currently headed by son Tejashwi, was decimated in Bihar with the party failing to get even one of the state's 40 Lok Sabha seats. Uncertainty at the Congress helm continued on Tuesday with party president Rahul Gandhi remaining adamant on his resignation. According to the reports, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) - the highest decision-making body will convene a meeting within the four days to decide the next course of action. Rajinikanth calls Modi 'charismatic' like Nehru, advises Rahul to prove himself India oi-Deepika S Chennai, May 28: Superstar Rajinikanth has said that he would attend Narendra Modi's oath ceremony as Prime Minister on Thursday and called him a "charismatic leader" like "Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi". "This victory is a victory for Modi. He is a charismatic leader. In India, after Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi, Modi is now a charismatic leader," Rajinikanth told reporters in Chennai. Talking about Rahul Gandhi's possible resignation, Rajinikanth said, "He should not resign. He should prove he can do it. In democracy the opposition should also be strong." Modi did not invite Imran to swearing-in due to internal politics: Pak downplays India's decision Actors-turned-politicians Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth are among the first guests to have received the invitations. Incidentally, commenting on the Opposition uniting against Modi last year, Rajinikanth had said the Prime Minister was 'stronger' than 10 persons aligning against him. "When 10 persons go against one person, who is stronger? Those 10, or the persons they are aligning against. If 10 persons declare a war against one man, who is stronger," he had said then on the possibility of a mega opposition alliance against Modi. However, the veteran star had earlier questioned the 'flawed' implementation of the Modi government's demonetisation exercise in November 2016. Haasan, who is opposed to the BJP, even expressed joy that the saffon party, which swept the Lok Sabha seats in rest of the country, did not win a single seat in Tamil Nadu, saying the State did not toe the national line. BIMSTEC leaders invited for Modi's swearing-in There have also been speculations about several world leaders being in attendance when Modi is sworn-in for a second consecutive term as PM, however there has been no official confirmation. Modi's 2014 swearing-in ceremony was attended by SAARC leaders, including the then-Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif. President Ram Nath Kovind will administer the oath of office and secrecy to the Prime Minister and other members of the Union Council of Ministers. Cabinet meeting highlights: Nod for revised DTH guidelines, licences to be issued for 20 years Cabinet approves allocation of 5MHz spectrum for railways to improve communication and signalling Cabinet nod to Samagra Shiksha Scheme for school education for another 5 years Rajiv Gauba set to be next Cabinet Secretary India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa New Delhi, May 28: Union home secretary Rajiv Gauba may be appointed as next Cabinet Secretary, replacing P K Sinha, whose four year tenure comes to an end on June 12, officials said. Chief secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, B V R Subrahmanyam, a 1987 batch IAS officer of Chhattisgarh cadre, seems to be the top contender for the post of Union home secretary after Gauba. Gauba, one of the senior most bureaucrats, had served in various capacities in central government as well as in Jharkhand and Bihar governments, is supposed to complete his two-year tenure as home secretary on August 31. There is all likelihood that Gauba will be the next Cabinet Secretary, the top post in the country's bureaucracy, an official privy to the development said. If Gauba, a 1982 batch Jharkhand cadre IAS officer, is appointed as cabinet secretary, he will have a fixed two-year tenure, which can be extendable for further two years. Incumbent Sinha was first appointed in 2015 for two years. He got an year extension of service in 2017 and again another year in 2018. Both predecessors of Sinha - Ajit Kumar Seth and K M Chandrasekhar - had also served the post for four years. Jaitley unlikely to be a minister in new Modi govt, may travel overseas for treatment Seth, who was appointed by the UPA dispensation in 2011 continued in the post till 2015 after the Narendra Modi government came to power in 2014. As per the government rules, no government servant shall be granted extension in service beyond the age of retirement of 60 years but as per rule FR 56, extension in public interest may be given "for a period not exceeding four years in the case of Cabinet Secretary". If Gauba's name is cleared by the Appointment Committee of Cabinet in the new government after it assumes charge on May 30, he will first be appointed as Officer on Special Duty, some time in first week of June before taking over the charge from Sinha, another official said. In the central government, Gauba had served as secretary in the ministry of urban development, additional secretary in the ministry of home affairs, joint secretary in the ministry of environment. He had also served as chief secretary of Jharkhand, Resident Commissioner of Jharkhand in Delhi. Before bifurcation of Bihar, Gauba had also served as district magistrate of Gaya, Nalanda and Muzaffarpur districts. Gauba had also served as private secretary to the then Defence Minister George Fernandes in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 6:08 [IST] Mamata Banerjee upset after not being allowed to speak during PMs meet Setback for Mamata as Mukul Roy's son, 2 Bengal MLAs, 50 councillors join BJP India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, May 28: In a major setback to Mamata Banerjee, 50 Trinamool Congress councillors along with BJP leader Mukul Roy's son joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday. BJP National General secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya had also confirmed the same while speaking to the media. "Three MLAs and 50-60 Councillors are joining BJP today. Such joining will continue in future also," he had said. At the BJP press conference, Kailash Vijayvargiya said, "Like the elections were held in seven phases in West Bengal, joinings in BJP will also happen in seven phases. Today was just the first phase," he said. PM's allegations baseless, not a single BJP worker killed in political violence: TMC Subhranshu Roy was expelled on May 24, just a day after Lok Sabha election result was announced, for making anti-party comments by praising his father Mukul Roy and saying he single-handedly wrecked the TMC in the state. 16 TMC Councillors of the Kanchrapara Municipality collectively withdrew from TMC Councillor' Party. Subhrangshu Roy, son of BJP leader Mukul Roy also withdrew his membership. The ruling Trinamool won 22 seats in the Lok Sabha election this year, down from 34 in the general election in 2014. The Bharatiya Janata Party wrested 18 out of Bengal's 42 Lok Sabha seats after getting just two seats in the last national polls. Allow women candidates to appear for November NDA exam: SC PM says notion that Army, police meant for men no longer exists, lauds rise in number of women cops Postpartum Fitness Blogger Harman Sidhu Is An Inspiration To Many Women Rajasthan cabinet reshuffle: BJP hits out at Congress over absence of women in new team The state of women politicians in India India oi-Hardeep Singh Bedi New Delhi, May 28: India is a country where women in politics face all sorts of problems. Despite this, women have served the highest offices. Indira Gandhi was prime minister of India and Pratibha Patil was the president. In the first Narendra Modi government, women handled important portfolios. Nirmala Sitharaman became the first dedicated woman defence Minister. Sushma Swaraj was External Affairs Minister; Smriti Irani Human Resource Development Minister; Maneka Gandhi Women & Child Development Minister, and Uma Bharti Drinking Water and Sanitation portfolio Minister. Sumitra Mahajan was the Lok Sabha speaker. Anandiben Patel, who served as first woman Chief Minister of Gujarat, is now Governor of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Former Congress president and United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi had rode Congress into power in 2004. Her daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has recently joined active politics. Mamata Banerjee is credited to achieve what was unimaginable in West Bengal. She dethroned the Left rule in West Bengal and is serving the second term as West Bengal Chief Minister. NDA expected to get majority in Rajya Sabha in November 2020 Former UP chief minister and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Mayawati is the current Dalit icon. Congress' Sheila Dikshit was Chief Minister of Delhi for 15 years. Late J Jayalalithaa was the chief minister of Tamil Nadu. Despite all these and other women stars of Indian politics, India lags behind many countries as far as the percentage of women MPs is concerned. In the just-concluded Lok Sabha elections, 78 women MPs have been elected, which stands at 14 per cent. In 2014, 62 women MPs were elected. Even a Muslim country like Bangladesh has more women MPs than India. There are 21 per cent women MPs in Bangladesh. The Parliaments of Rwanda, South Africa, UK, and USA have 61 per cent, 43 per cent, 32 per cent, and 24 per cent women MPs respectively. To understand how women politicians are treated in India, analysis of the just concluded Lok Sabha campaigning is enough. For example, senior Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Azam Khan stooped very low against her opponent and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate and former actress Jaya Prada from Rampur during campaigning. Khan was castigated by one and all for making a sexist remark against Jaya Prada. Without naming Jaya Prada, Khan allegedly said, "People of Rampur, people of Uttar Pradesh and people of India, it took you 17 years to understand her reality. But, I could recognize it in 17 days that she wears a khaki underwear." Despite this, the voters voted for Khan and he defeated Jaya Prada. Another example is that former Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi resigned from the party and joined Shiv Sena, which she describes as a safe party for women. Chaturvedi, who was also convenor of the Congress' media cell, quit the party after some Congress leaders who misbehaved with her in Mathura were reinstated in the party on April 15 by Jyotiraditya Scindia, Congress in-charge of Western Uttar Pradesh. Here is why BJP and Jagan Reddy are wooing each other These Congress leaders reportedly misbehaved with Priyanka during the press conference on Rafale deal in Mathura a few days ago. After Chaturvedi filed complaint, the Congress suspended eight Mathura Congress leaders. They were reinstated in the party by Scindia on April 15 after they gave a written apology. The reasoning of their reinstatement was that the party needed expelled leaders to win the Lok Sabha election in Mathura. However, the Congress lost the Mathura seat where another woman and BJP candidate Hema Malini became victorious. Ironically, a woman's dignity was ignored in a party where the words of two women: Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are still considered final. Actor-turned-politician Khushbu Sundar was forced to slap a man who was misbehaving with her during her Congress rally in Bengaluru. These examples sum up the problems being faced by women politicians in India. Another example of political space for women in India is that previous 16 governments have failed to pass the Women's Reservation Bill or The Constitution (108th Amendment) Bill, 2008 which proposes to amend the Constitution of India to reserve 33 per cent of all seats in the Lok Sabha and in all state legislative assemblies for women. South Africa: Promoting sanitary dignity As the world observes Menstrual Hygiene Day (MHD), the Department of Women is hosting a Sanitary Dignity Indaba to share the best practice, lessons learnt, challenges and opportunities experienced during the roll out of the programme in provinces. MHD is an annual awareness day observed on 28 May to highlight the importance of good menstrual hygiene management. The day aims to bring together government, non-governmental organisations, individuals, the private sector, civil society, as well as the media to promote good menstrual health and hygiene management. It also aims to break stigmas that exist around women and young girls experiencing their menstrual cycle. The department, with its mandate to advance womens socio-economic empowerment and promote gender equality, continues to champion the Sanitary Dignity Programme to provide free sanitary products to indigent women and girls in quintiles 1-3 schools. The programme is guided by the National Sanitary Dignity Implementation Framework (SDIF), which has been drafted by the Department of Women and other stakeholders to further enhance the framework and implementation plan. The aim of the SDIF is to promote sanitary dignity and to provide norms and standards in respect of the provision of sanitary products to indigent persons. It further seeks to promote social justice and emphasise the basic human rights of indigent persons. The department held its national launch in Piet Retief, Mpumalanga, on 28 February 2019. The programme was also launched in Makana, Eastern Cape, on 13 April 2019, and in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, on 3 May 2019. Minister of Women Bathabile Dlamini said the department continues to stress that sexual and reproductive health and rights education is a critical step in ensuring that girls are prepared for the changes their bodies are going through. Dlamini reiterated that the provision of free sanitary products needs to be supported by education and awareness campaigns to address and change unhealthy menstrual practices, messages and behaviours. Age-appropriate social and behavioural change communication is crucial to address inequity in sanitary dignity in the country, Dlamini said. Break stigma around menstruation The Minister said the ability of women and girls to manage their menstrual cycle with dignity is a human rights issue, and part of restoring this dignity is to break the stigma that exists around menstruation by ending the silence, through education, advocacy and awareness campaigns. This must be a joint effort of government. Infrastructure enablers like water supply, sanitation, handwashing facility, toilet paper and an environmentally safe and hygienic disposal system are all necessary for the implementation of the SDIF. Media organisations and civil society organisations must play their part by educating communities on menstruation and make it less of a taboo, Dlamini said. Interventions to manage menstrual cycle with dignity Government has introduced a number of interventions to ensure that indigent women and girls are able to manage their menstrual cycle with dignity. In October 2018, the Minister of Finance announced the provision of free sanitary products to school girls in non-fee paying schools. In the 2019/2020 budget, National Treasury made available R157 million to provide free sanitary pads to quintile 1-3 schools across the provinces of the country. Dlamini said the National Student Financial Aid Schemes decision (taken in January 2019) to allocate R275 per month to students for personal care, was hailed as a victory for womens rights in South Africa. The allowance, disbursed to nearly 800 000 students, for incidental or personal care needs, will most certainly be used for personal hygiene as well as sanitary products. This allocation takes into account the whole life of the student, who comes from an economically poor background, and offers support to both young men and women to take care of their personal hygiene requirements, Dlamini said. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met with Nigerien President Mahamadou Issoufou on Tuesday, calling on the two countries to cooperate for more achievements. Commending the progress of cooperation between the two countries, Li said Niger is China's important cooperation partner in Africa. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang shakes hands with visiting Nigerien President Mahamadou Issoufou on May 28, 2019. [Photo: Xinhua] He said China stands ready to deepen political mutual trust and enhance the synergy of development strategies with Niger in line with the principles of mutual trust and equal treatment, so as to build China-Niger friendly cooperation as a model of China-Africa relations. China and Niger are both developing countries and they should learn from each other and choose a development path that suits their own national conditions, Li said. China is willing to enhance infrastructure construction, energy, agriculture, health cooperation with Niger in accordance with market rules and business principles to achieve mutual benefits and win-win results, said Li. He added that China will support its capable enterprises to take part in Niger's domestic construction and hopes that the Nigerien side will strengthen security protection for them. China is willing to continue providing support and aid to Niger within its own capacity to help the African country's economic and social development and livelihood improvement. Li also expressed China's support for the agreement on Africa free trade area and Africa's integration process. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang meets with Nigerien President Mahamadou Issoufou on May 28, 2019. [Photo: Xinhua] Issoufou expressed congratulations on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and expressed admiration for the huge achievements of China's reform and opening-up. He said China has set off on a new journey and is bound to achieve its goals. Niger speaks highly of bilateral relations, firmly upholds the one-China principle, and is willing to actively taking part in the joint construction of the Belt and Road, he said. Niger is willing to enhance relations and cooperation with China across the board, and enhance coordination and cooperation in international affairs to enhance bilateral relations and Africa-China relations, he said. Poor weather could have played spoilsport, says Wedding photographer who took viral video of crash DK Shivakumar once again loses cool over selfie-seeker in viral video This is why #JCBKiKhudai is trending on Twitter: Check out this viral meme India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, May 28: Social Media is full of memes and the desi Internet's latest obsession is 'JCB Ki Khudai.' Yes, you heard it right. If you woke up this morning and scrolled through Facebook and Twitter, your timeline must have been flooded with memes on this #JCBKiKhudayi. All this started trending after a video of a JCB machine removing rubble went viral. Since then, netizens are sharing funny memes and one-liners with #JCBKiKhudayi. For those that don't know, JCB stands for Joesph Cyrill Bamford and they are into construction, agriculture and demolition. They are a Britain-based company. The search term 'JCB' spiked as soon as the memes started surfacing. One user tweeted, "When you cancel your date so that you can watch #jcbkikhudayi". Whoever says the JCB operator isn't entertaining show them this#jcbkikhudayi pic.twitter.com/jFMTJJY8w6 KAUSTUBH MANATKAR (@cos2bh_writes) May 27, 2019 Pic 1: crowd in SRK movies Pic2: crowd watching JCB ki khudai in India#jcbkikhudayi pic.twitter.com/k2fNAYUfdE Rahane haters ko bhagao (@rahaneswarrior) May 28, 2019 If I was a JCB driver Me :#jcbkikhudayi pic.twitter.com/2UvBjODIoU (@AbhiRay9506) May 28, 2019 Now, joining the meme world, Nagupur police has come up with its unique message, urging the citizens to drive safe. And last not but the least, JCB had the best reply to all the love they have been getting on social media. We are truly humbled by the love shown for JCB in India today, with #JCBKiKhudai trending across the country! Thank you to our customers and fans for your enthusiasm and support! With @JCBIndiaLtd, you can #ExpectMore. #JCBkikhudayi pic.twitter.com/4oGhCAqcyJ JCB (@JCBmachines) May 27, 2019 Taking over the world of social media as one of the top young singers is Armaan Thakur Trinamool MPs Mimi Chakraborty, Nusrat Jahan trolled for posing at Parliament India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, May 28: Trinamool Congress MPs and Bengali actors Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan are massively trolled on social media after the duo shared pictures from their first day at the Parliament. And this isn't the first time, when their names were announced as Trinamool candidates, the actors faced trolls saying they were incompetent to run for the seats. While Mimi Chakraborty was dressed in a white shirt, jeans and a pair of sneakers, Nusrat Jahan, was dressed in a purple shirt and black pair of formal trousers. NDA expected to get majority in Rajya Sabha in November 2020 Netizens slammed the two MPs for posing in front of the Parliament and how they dress up on their first day as Members of Parliament. While one Instgaram user shamed the actress by saying, "this is not film shooting", another one wrote, "Did you go there to do this drama? Please do not do this drama at the Parliament and shame Bengal." One user wrote in Bengali, "This is not a place for photoshoot. This is a place where you should fight for the people's rights and legislate for the country. You don't belong here." Both the actors won their seats defeating their respective opponents by a huge margin. However, few people of the Internet seemed more interested in their choice of clothes as opposed to their accomplishments. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 13:27 [IST] Will always be with you to fight injustice: Rahul Gandhi to media Trouble brews in Rajasthan Congress, 2 ministers seek accountability for poll mess India oi-Deepika S Jaipur, May 28: Two ministers in the Rajasthan cabinet have come out in support of Congress president Rahul Gandhi and spoken against state chief minister Ashok Gehlot, who faced flak for putting the interests of party behind in order to promote his son. According to some of the leaders, who attended Saturday's Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting, Gandhi did a lot of "plain-speaking" in his surgical analysis of the role of several party leaders while himself offering to quit as the party president. Ticking-off Gehlot for camping in Jodhpur for his son Vaibhav's election, Gandhi said the chief minister spent days campaigning extensively for his son in Jodhpur and neglected the rest of the state. Congress in a spot of bother as Rahul insists on quitting Gehlot had reportedly taken part in over 130 rallies and road shows, 93 of them in Jodhpur alone. His son, however, lost to the BJP, which took 24 of the 25 seats in the state, with one seat going to its ally. After Gandhi's severe criticism, several ministers in the state have come out in the open, demanding fixing of accountability and action over the electoral drubbing just months after the party formed the government in the state. Rajasthan Transport Minister Pratap Singh Khachariyawas said the CWC has given Gandhi full authority to fix the accountability and he will exercise that power. Asked about Gandhi hauling up senior leaders for putting their sons over party, he said: "Rahul Gandhi ji has full right to say what he has to in the CWC. Nobody is above him and he would have said it after giving it full thought. All workers and leaders of the Congress respect his word. I also learnt from the media about it (Rahul's remarks)." "If Rahul Gandhi ji finds fault with senior leaders, it is his right -- to fix accountability and take corrective steps," Khachariyawas said. Echoing Khachariyawas' views, his cabinet colleague, Bhanwarlal Meghwal, also demanded that accountability be immediately fixed for the defeat. "Whatever Rahul Gandhi said is right...Action should be taken against those people who are responsible for this defeat so that a message goes to the workers. The Congress workers are also very angry," he said. Meanwhile, Gehlot was in Delhi and met Congress general secretary in-charge K C Venugopal on Monday. However, what transpired in the meeting was not known. Two state ministers have also come out in the open to demand a detailed assessment by the top leadership. Cooperative Minister Udai Lal Anjana, and Food and Civil Supplies Minister Ramesh Meena have said the party should review the reasons for the defeat so that the party bounces back and performs well in upcoming local body elections in the state. 'Congress workers too didn't take NYAY seriously' Meanwhile, there were reports that Agriculture Minister Lalchand Kataria has resigned after party's poor showing in the polls. However, there was no conformation. K C Vishnoi, DCC president Hanumagarh, lashed out at Gehlot for the poll debacle. "The organisation worked really hard and brought the party to power. But within three months the people got upset with the government, the chief minister should take responsibility. He should have offered to resign," he said. The Congress, which came to power in December 2018, lost all the 25 Lok Sabha seats in the State. United Nations Peacekeepers day: Significance of this day, India's role in UNPK missions India oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, May 29: Today is International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers which is observed to honor the memory of the UN peacekeepers who have lost their lives in the cause of peace. The theme for this year's Day is "Protecting Civilians, Protecting Peace" to mark the upcoming 20th anniversary when for the first time the Security Council explicitly mandated a peacekeeping mission (UNAMSIL in Sierra Leone) to protect civilians. Today, in 14 peacekeeping operations on four continents, it deploys more than 88,000 military and police personnel -- from 124 Member States -- nearly 13,000 civilian personnel, and 1,300 UN Volunteers. Despite the size and breadth of its operations, peacekeeping's budget is less than one half of one percent of global military spending. Peacekeeping has clearly proven to be a solid investment in global peace, security and prosperity. Since the first UN Peacekeeping mission was established in 1948, 3,800 military, police and civilian personnel have lost their lives in the service of peace as a result of acts of violence, accidents and disease. On 29 May, UN offices, alongside Member States and non-governmental organizations, hold solemn events to honour fallen peacekeepers. UN Peacekeeping operations use the Day to strengthen bonds with the local populations that they have been deployed to serve. For example by holding sporting events, school and orphanage visits, art and essay competitions, photo exhibits, neighbourhood clean ups, tree plantings, concerts, and conferences and workshops on peace issues. India's role in UN peacekeeping corps: India's contribution to UN peacekeepers has been immense. India has been one of the largest contributors of peacekeepers and has suffered the most casualties in the process. So far India has taken part in 43 Peacekeeping missions with a total contribution exceeding 180,000 troops and a significant number of police personnel having been deployed. In 2014, India was the third largest troop contributor with 7,860 personnel deployed with ten UN Peacekeeping Missions of which 995 are police personnel, including the first Female Formed Police Unitunder the UN. Recently Indian Peacekeepers were lauded by the UN for their efforts in preventing a carnage in the South Sudan conflict which resulted in the death of two of its soldiers. Historically, India has participated in nearly all UN peacekeeping operations in Africa. Most famously, India helped set the trend in "peace enforcement missions" by deploying a sizeable contingent-around 5,000 troops assisted by light bombers, to the United Nations Operations in Congo (ONUC) from 1960 to 1963. This militarized mission ensured the unity of Congo and resulted in the maximum number of casualties suffered by India in any UN operation, according to www.brookings.edu. (Information source - www.un.org/Wikipedia) For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 29, 2019, 0:42 [IST] With Modi back, Pakistan will have no option but to change: Former R&AW official India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, May 28: With Narendra Modi set for a second term, the focus will be largely on national security and development. One of the key areas where the focus would be on is Pakistan. During a call with Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, the Indian PM made it clear that if talks are to continue then, action against terrorism is a must. Former officer with the Research and Analysis Wing, Amar Bhushan says that with Modi back, Pakistan would need to seriously evaluate. I feel that they want to mend fences, he tells OneIndia. It is time that Pakistan sets a new agenda and for them the time is critical now, failing which they will be completely isolated. Modi's first term was a defining phase for them and in the next five years, they will have a lot more to ponder over. The only option available for them now is work together with India and grow together, Bhushan also says. Modi has made it clear that he won't talk until Pakistan acts on terror. Modi compromised on national security says Congress Modi will not settle for just words or action such as suspension of terror training in Pakistan. He would only speak when Pakistan stops launching terrorists into India. In the meantime, he will continue with tough action in Kashmir and look to wipe out terrorism. I get the feeling that they will use the President's rule in the state to clean up the mess. The government would not like to lose its grip on the issue and will fight it to the finish. Modi will not speak with the Hurriyat, Omar Abdullah or Mehbooba and will continue to clean up the mess on the ground, Amar Bhushan further adds. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Tuesday, May 28, 2019, 15:58 [IST] Mamata Banerjee upset after not being allowed to speak during PMs meet "Yes I will go", says Mamata on attending Modi's swearing-in India oi-Vikas SV Kolkata, May 28: Amid speculations whether Mamata Banerjee would attend Narendra Modi's swearing-in or not, the West Bengal Chief Minister on Tuesday confirmed that she would attend the oath taking. As per latest reports, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal would also attend the oath taking. Mamata Banerjee and Prime Minister elect Modi had engaged in bitter war of words during the campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections. Mamata had said that Modi government's expiry date had come, while Modi and Shah had accused West Bengal chief minister of having unleashed a reign of terror in the state. The cadre of both the TMC and the BJP had also clashed during almost every phase of the 7 phase Lok Sabha elections. "I have spoken to other Chief Ministers also. Since it is a ceremonial program we thought of attending it.Yes I will go," Banerjee today told ANI. Meanwhile, in a major setback to Mamata Banerjee, 50 Trinamool Congress councillors along with BJP leader Mukul Roy's son joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday. BJP National General secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya had also confirmed the same while speaking to the media. "Three MLAs and 50-60 Councillors are joining BJP today. Such joining will continue in future also," he had said. [Setback for Mamata as Mukul Roy's son, 2 Bengal MLAs, 50 councillors join BJP] Modi will be administered the oath of office for his second term along with his new council of ministers on May 30 by President Ram Nath Kovind. He is the first BJP leader who has been elected for the second time after completion of his five-year tenure, a feat so far achieved only by two Congress leaders--Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. Papua New Guinea Parliament was in chaos this afternoon after the Parliament Speaker refused the Opposition's motion to remove him as the Speaker . In a raging debate over a motion, introduced by the Opposition Leader and prime minister nominee, Patrick Pruaitch to remove Mr Pomat from the Speaker's chair, Parliament erupted in a shouting debate from both sides with countless points of orders arguing the motion.Rage was clearly visible among the MP's with even Petroleum Minister Fabian Pok openly swearing without any reprimand from the Speaker.Patrick Pruaitch, stood up as soon as the speaker opened up question time and put forward the a request to remove Pomat as speaker.I want to ask leave of Parliament There are a number of motions that I intend to move. One of them is to challenge your position as a speaker of parliament. I seek leave to move that motion.Despite the demonstration of numerical strength on the Opposition side, the Speaker told Patrick Pruaitch that he was not going to entertain the motion on grounds that Parliamentary standing orders did not have the provisions that allowed for the removal of the speaker on the floor.Pomat told the house that the provisions in the standing orders were silent and that it was up to the speaker to decide if such a motion was to be entertained.I can show you provisions for the removal of the Governor General. I can show you provisions for the removal of the Prime Minister. But I cannot find the provisions for the removal of the Speaker. So If you can show me the sections under the constitution, then I will entertain it, Speaker Pomat said.The house then degenerated into a chaotic shouting match between the beefed up opposition and a heavily depleted Government side. Vanimo-Green MP, Belden Namah shouted at the speaker to entertain the motion.We are not here for you to dictate on the floor of Parliament. We are not here for you to be the judge. There is a motion on foot. The vote has to take place. You have to entertain the vote, Namah said. You are preempting a motion. If I were you, I would resign.The Speaker then referred to the standing orders reading out section 284 to show that he could not be removed through what he called an unprecedented request by the Opposition.Later, after a lot of persistence, the Speaker recognized Madang MP, Bryan Kramer who accused the him of attempting to hold on to power.You quoted section 284: In any matter no provided for, the Speaker shall decide There is a reason for that. Its because of bias and you have demonstrated that bias. You cant move against yourself. You wont accept it. You have to accept [the motion] now, Kramer said.Another round of chaos erupted. Tempers flared and North Whagi MP, Dr. Fabian Pok, hurled abuse at an opposition MP who had interrupted him.Youwait! You wait! We are setting a precedence here. We will all not be here in parliament. If we do this, anyone who has the numbers will change the speaker! Dr. Pok said.Towards the end of the 45 minute period. The Speaker had lost control of the house. He tried to invoke sections in the standing order to suspend the Parliament to 10am tomorrow. But was later advised to suspend and recall parliament until the ringing of the bell.EMTV/ NBC News/PNG Today Aquafeed Market set to grow according to forecasts Aller Aqua Group, Alltech, Archer Daniels Midland Company, BioMar Group Aquafeed Market http://bit.ly/2Xc7KRQ https://www.theinsightpartners.com/ This market research report provides a big picture on Aquafeed Market, on a Global basis, offering a forecast and statistic in terms of revenue during the forecast period. The report covers a descriptive analysis with detailed segmentation, complete research and development history, latest news and press releases. Furthermore, the study explains the future opportunities and a sketch of key players involved in the Aquafeed Markets hike in terms of revenue.Every crucial and decisive detail for the development of the market and the restraining factors that may hamper the market in near future is mentioned with solutions in the report. Segmentations of the market are studied specifically to give profound knowledge for supplementary market investments.Detailed segmentation of the market, on the basis of Ingredients, Additives and End-users and a descriptive structure of trends and restrictions of the segments and sub-segments are mentioned in the report. It also provides the market size and estimates a forecast 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 report also provides exhaustive PEST analysis for all five regions after evaluating political, economic, social and technological factors effecting the Aquafeed market.For sample report click: -The report assists in determining and analyzing the Key market players portfolios with information such as company profiles, components and services offered, financial information of last 3 years, key developments in past five years and helps in constructing strategies to gain competitive advantage. The market payers from Aquafeed Market are anticipated to lucrative growth opportunities in the future with the rising demand for Aquafeed in the global market. Below mentioned is the list of few companies engaged in the Aquafeed market.Companies Mentioned:- Aller Aqua Group, Alltech, Archer Daniels Midland Company, BioMar Group, Biostadt India Limited, Cargill, Incorporated, Nutreco N.V, Nutriad International NV, Purina Animal Nutrition LLC, Ridley Corporation LimitedAnswers that the report acknowledges: Market size and growth rate during forecast period. Key factors driving the Aquafeed Market market. Key market trends cracking up the growth of the Aquafeed Market market. Challenges to market growth. Key vendors of Aquafeed Market market. Detailed SWOT analysis. Opportunities and threats faces by the existing vendors in Global Aquafeed Market market. Trending factors influencing the market in the geographical regions. Strategic initiatives focusing the leading vendors. PEST analysis of the market in the five major regions.The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services.We are committed to providing highest quality research and consulting services to our customers. We help our clients understand key market trends, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions by providing market research solutions at an affordable cost.Call: +1-646-491-9876Email: sales@theinsightpartners.comWebsite: Comprehensive analysis on Commercial Satellite Launch Service Market | Key Players are: Lockheed Martin, Airbus, Space Exploration Technology, Boeing, Axelspace Corporation, Orbital ATK https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1130980/?utm_source=openpr.com-VL https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/1130980 https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/commercial-satellite-launch-service-market https://www.marketstudyreport.com https://www.marketstudyreport.com/blog The demand for Global Commercial Satellite Launch Service market is anticipated to be high for the next five years. By considering this demand we provide latest Global Commercial Satellite Launch Service Market Report which gives complete industry analysis, market outlook, size, growth and forecast till 2024. This report will assist in analyzing the current and future business trends, sales and revenue forecasts.Continuous R&D activities for cost reductions will aid developing countries such as India to strengthen its position., In 2018, ISRO launched 31 satellites and is planning for around 3000 in next ten years. Rising satellite manufacturing facilities will strengthen the commercial satellite launch service Market over the forecast period. For instance, in 2017, Airbus commissioned factory to manufacture One-Web SATs with annual investment of around USD 17 billion.Request a sample of this premium report titled atIncreasing public spending and availability of financial investment is spurring the use of smart appliances, such as smart televisions and web streaming which in turn will fuel commercial satellite launch service Market. Soaring smart phone sales along with internet usage among youngsters is enhancing web-based applications such as AccuWeather, Google search, Facebook, and Instagram. In addition, introduction of smart classes will further improve internet penetration. In 2017, the number of online users reached approximately to 25 million. This in turn will escalate the commercial satellite launch service Market in next seven years.Government agencies such as the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends and approves the regulations and procedures that govern commercial launch service industry. It satisfies infrastructure requirement for the companies located both domestically and internationally. European space organizations are exploring various alternatives for micro launchers for launching SATs for different applications including, telecom, technology demonstration, education, earth observation, and mobile applications.Proliferating use of GPS and communication-based facilities will require additional launches thereby boosting commercial satellite launch service Market from 2018 to 2024. Rising sales of passenger vehicles with built-in navigation facility has increased adoption of this facility in various sectors including information & technology, electronics, and automobile. Companies in oil and gas sector trace the fuel tankers and vehicles for monitor the on-shore facilities that requires well established communication network. Owing to diverse applications the service demand is predicted to expand thereby supporting industry growth rate.Prohibitive cost may hinder the commercial satellite launch service market growth during forecast period. In addition, launching challenges, quality control, absence of proper launch facility, and distribution channel may restrict the industry growth. However, declining price owing to technological advancements thereby reinforcing Industry.Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report titled atLEO segment of commercial satellite launch service market will exhibit CAGR of around 3.2% during forecast period owing to less deploy time and low launching cost in comparison with other orbits. Additionally, the segment is the positive gateway for expanding connectivity in remote areas.The micro commercial satellite launch service market will experience more than 6% of growth rate during the projected time span. This growth rate can be credited to rising developments for enhancing affordability and reliability of the launching vehicles. Micro SATs penetration is observed in various industries owing to compact size.Communication commercial satellite launch service Market will dominate industry volume share owing to increasing usage of wireless technology and rising connectivity among various countries. Reconnaissance segment is anticipated to hold over 35% of overall revenue share owing to utilization of imagery SATs for improving farming techniques. Online web sources and GIS tools for farmers will further spur segment revenue over the forecast period.North America is predicted to dominate commercial satellite launch service Market and will be worth over USD 2.5 billion by 2024. This dominance can be credited to availability of robust infrastructure in the region and presence of multiple space organizations including SpaceX and NASA. Expansion of navigation industry demand to locate destinations is contributing significantly in regional revenue generation. Asia Pacific is anticipated to register robust growth owing to low launching cost offered by organizations such as ISRO.Commercial satellite launch service market players are Lockheed Martin, Airbus, Space Exploration Technology, Boeing, Axelspace Corporation, and Orbital ATK. Industry players are adopting mergers and acquisition strategy to enhance their industry share. In January 2018, ULA acquired Atlas division of Lockheed to reduce cost and enhancing business efficiency.Key Table Points Covered in Commercial Satellite Launch Service Market Report:1. Global Commercial Satellite Launch Service Market Research Report 20192. Global Commercial Satellite Launch Service Market Competition by Manufacturers3. Global Commercial Satellite Launch Service Capacity, Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2019-2025)4. Global Commercial Satellite Launch Service Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Region (2019-2025)5. Global Commercial Satellite Launch Service Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type6. Global Commercial Satellite Launch Service Market Analysis by Application7. Global Commercial Satellite Launch Service Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis8. Commercial Satellite Launch Service Manufacturing Cost Analysis9. Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers10. Commercial Satellite Launch Service Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders11. Commercial Satellite Launch Service Market Effect Factors AnalysisComplete report titled atAbout 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: Global Medical Textiles Market is valued at 12200 million US$ in 2018 and to reach 18500 million US$ at a CAGR of 5.3% by 2025| Valuates Reports https://reports.valuates.com/sreport/QYRE-Auto-12160/Global_Medical_Textiles_Market https://reports.valuates.com/request/sample/QYRE-Auto-12160/Global_Medical_Textiles_Market https://reports.valuates.com/request/discount/QYRE-Auto-12160/Global_Medical_Textiles_Market https://reports.valuates.com/sreport/QYRE-Auto-R429/Global_Healthcare_Linen_Market_Insights_Forecast_to_2025 https://reports.valuates.com/ www.linkedin.com/company/valuatesreports www.facebook.com/valuatesreports www.twitter.com/valuatesreports www.instagram.com/reportsvaluates www.youtube.com/channel/UCH4wNXynaTZbiD5m92WQI4A The Global Medical Textiles market is valued at 12200 million US$ in 2018 and will reach 18500 million US$ by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of 5.3% during 2019-2025.Medical Textiles are used in hygiene, health and personal care, as well as in surgical applications. These products include: wipes, baby and adult diapers, adult sanitary and incontinence products, as well as, medical and surgical products, such as operating gowns, operating drapes, sterilization packs, dressings, sutures and orthopedic pads.The objectives of this study are to define, segment, and project the size of the Medical Textiles market based on company, product type, end user and key regions.This report studies the global market size of Medical Textiles in key regions like North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Central & South America and Middle East & Africa, focuses on the consumption of Medical Textiles in these regions.This research report categorizes the global Medical Textiles market by top players/brands, region, type and end user. This report also studies the global Medical Textiles market status, competition landscape, market share, growth rate, future trends, market drivers, opportunities and challenges, sales channels and distributors.Read More:Market Trends:In the last several years, global market of medical textiles developed stably, with an average growth rate of 8%. In 2015, the global production of medical textiles reached 3258 K MT. With developed manufacturing technology and low labor cost, China is the largest supplier, with the production market share over 32% in 2015, and other Asian regions also accounted for over 34% market share globally. Europe accounted for over 34% of market size in 2015.The market is developed in Europe due to the mature healthcare sector, growing consumer demand for improved healthcare facilities. North America is the second largest regional segment accounting for over 29% of the global market volume in 2015. Meanwhile, China and other Asia regions demand is projected to witness a high growth rate of over 10% due to increasing penetration of disposable baby diapers and feminine hygiene products. Non-woven textile dominated the global medical textiles market, accounting for over 57% of global volume in 2015. This segment is projected to gain market share over the forecast period, due to high performance characteristics such as easy disposability, cost-effectiveness and reduced danger of cross-contamination. Healthcare & hygiene products and non-implantable goods application segments together accounted for a share of nearly 60% in 2015. Healthcare and hygiene products are rapidly gaining popularity in the developing regions including Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East due to rising healthcare infrastructure.The study objectives of this report are:To study and analyze the global Medical Textiles market size (value & volume) by company, key regions, products and end user, breakdown data from 2014 to 2018, and forecast to 2025.To understand the structure of Medical Textiles market by identifying its various subsegments.To share detailed information about the key factors influencing the growth of the market (growth potential, opportunities, drivers, industry-specific challenges and risks).Focuses on the key global Medical Textiles companies, to define, describe and analyze the sales volume, value, market share, market competition landscape and recent development.To project the value and sales volume of Medical Textiles submarkets, with respect to key regions.To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market.Get Sample Copy Of This Report:The following manufacturers are covered in this report, with sales, revenue, market share for each company:Medtronic (Covidien)Johnson & Johnson3MBSN medicalSmith & NephewMolnlyckeMedlineDupontCardinal HealthB. BraunAllmed MedicalAhlstromWinner MedicalLohmann & RauscherJianErKangHakuzoKOBTWE GroupZhende MedicalVileneMedprideTechtexMarket size by ProductNon-woven FabricWoven FabricKnitted FabricsMarket size by End UserImplantable GoodsNon-implantable GoodsHealthcare & Hygiene ProductsOtherMarket size by RegionNorth AmericaUnited StatesCanadaMexicoAsia-PacificChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaAustraliaIndonesiaSingaporeMalaysiaPhilippinesThailandVietnamEuropeGermanyFranceUKItalySpainRussiaCentral & South AmericaBrazilRest of Central & South AmericaMiddle East & AfricaGCC CountriesTurkeyEgyptSouth AfricaThis report includes the estimation of market size for value (million US$) and volume (K MT). Both top-down and bottom-up approaches have been used to estimate and validate the market size of Medical Textiles market, to estimate the size of various other dependent submarkets in the overall market. Key players in the market have been identified through secondary research, and their market shares have been determined through primary and secondary research. All percentage shares, splits, and breakdowns have been determined using secondary sources and verified primary sources.Avail Discount On This Report :About Valuates Reports :Our aim is to collate unparalleled Market insights and notify our customers as and when it happens.Valuates is curating premium Market Research Reports from the leading publishers around the globe. We will help you map your information needs to our report repository of Market research reports and guide you through your purchasing decision. We are based out of silicon valley of India (Bengaluru) and provide 24/7 online and offline support to all our customers and just a phone call away.For Similar ReportsHealthcare Linen Market -Contact Us:Valuates Reportssales@valuates.comFor U.S. Toll Free Call +1 (425) 388-2538For IST Call +91-8040957137To know more visit us on:Website:Linkedin:Facebook:Twitter:Instagram:Youtube:Valuates,4th Floor,Balaraj's Arcade,Whitefield Main road,Bangalore 560066, Building Thermal Insulation Market Scrutinized in New Research by BASF SE, Beijing New Building Material (Group) Co., Ltd., Compagnie de Saint-Gobain S.A., Covestro AG,GAF Materials LLC, Johns Manville (Berkshire Hathaway Inc.) Building Thermal Insulation Market http://bit.ly/2Xa31Aj http://bit.ly/2XgafTu https://www.theinsightpartners.com/ Worldwide Building Thermal Insulation Market to 2027 research report conveys industry business patterns and the undertaking information, tolerating one to grasp clients and the stock driving gainfulness and yield development. The report highlights information on improvements and Global Building Thermal Insulation Market trends, drivers, revenue and furthermore available. The market report pulls in the most peculiar bits of knowledge of this business additionally makes Building Thermal Insulation forecast that is important out there. It accompanies estimations concerning the Building Thermal Insulation advancement, subordinate and draws in the distinguishing proof of their industry status.Building thermal insulation is an important technology in modern construction to prevent heat loss or gain through the building envelope. It also helps against the accumulation of heat inside the building thereby reducing dependency on electrical cooling and saving significant energy costs. Also, thermal insulation materials are easy to install, highly durable, and possess better compressive strength. The adoption of building thermal insulation has increased owing to the rising consumer awareness towards reducing carbon footprint and favorable government policies towards energy-efficient means.Get Sample Copy of This Report:Companies Mentioned:- BASF SE, Beijing New Building Material (Group) Co., Ltd., Compagnie de Saint-Gobain S.A., Covestro AG,GAF Materials LLC, Johns Manville (Berkshire Hathaway Inc.), Kingspan Group plc, Knauf Insulation, Inc., Owens Corning, Rockwool International A/SThe global building thermal insulation market is segmented on the basis of material, application, and building type. Based on material, the market is segmented as plastic foam, glass wool, stone wool, and others. The segment plastic foam is further categorized as polystyrene foam, polyurethane (PUR) & polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam, and others. On the basis of the application, the market is segmented as roof insulation, wall insulation, and floor insulation. Roof insulation market is further sub-segmented as flat roof insulation and pitched roof insulation. On the other hand, by wall insulation, the market is sub-segmented as external wall insulation, internal wall insulation, and cavity wall insulation. The market, on the basis of the building type, is classified into residential and non-residential building. The non-residential building segment is further sub-segmented as industrial building, commercial building, and others.What the report features: - Global analysis of Building Thermal Insulation Market from 2017 2027 illustrating the progression of the market. Forecast and analysis of Building Thermal Insulation Market by Product Type, Sales Channel and Application from 2017 2027 Forecast and analysis of Building Thermal Insulation Market in five major regions, namely; North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Middle East and Africa (MEA) and South & Central AmericaThe report contains imperative and pivotal details affecting the developments and growth of the market and also talks about the restricting factors that may restrain the Building Thermal Insulation Market growth during the forecast period. Segmentation of the market are examined specifically to provide knowledge for supplementary market investments. Segmentation of the market on the basis of Product Type, Sales Channel and Application are elucidated in details portraying a descriptive structure of the market trends and restrictions affecting the Building Thermal Insulation Market through the segments and sub-segments.As far, restraining factor in the growth of Building Thermal Insulation is lack of skilled labors resulting in improper installation and directly impacting efficiency and performance. Also, certain materials are sensitive to moisture and cannot be recommended where there are chances of moisture. Furthermore, increasing urbanization and methods of energy conservation provides prosperous opportunities for the market.The "Global Building Thermal Insulation Market Analysis to 2027" is a specialized and in-depth study of the food and beverages industry with a special focus on the global market trend analysis. The report aims to provide an overview of Building Thermal Insulation market with detailed market segmentation by product type, application, sales channel, and geography. The global Building Thermal Insulation market is expected to witness high growth during the forecast period. The report provides key statistics on the market status of the leading Building Thermal Insulation market players and offers key trends and opportunities in the market.The report analyzes factors affecting Building Thermal Insulation 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 Building Thermal Insulation market in these regions.Major Factors about the Report: Global Building Thermal Insulation Market Overview Economic Impact on Market Market Competition Global Building Thermal Insulation Market Analysis by Application Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders Global Market Effect, Factors, Analysis Global Market ForecastKey Questions Answered in Report: What are the key of Building Thermal Insulation Market? What are factor which lead this market to next level? What are the opportunities to Building Thermal Insulation Market in future? What will the market Demand and what will be Growth? What are the strengths of the key players? MoreHave Queries? Ask us at:The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services.We are committed to providing highest quality research and consulting services to our customers. We help our clients understand key market trends, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions by providing market research solutions at an affordable cost.The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We are a specialist in Technology, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Automotive and Defense.Call: +1-646-491-9876Email: sales@theinsightpartners.comWebsite: Application Delivery Network (ADN) Market set to grow according to forecasts Citrix Systems, F5 Networks, Radware, A10 Networks, Akamai Technologies, Barracuda Networks and more Application Delivery Network (ADN) https://www.worldwidemarketreports.com/sample/269376 https://www.worldwidemarketreports.com/quiry/269376 Application delivery network is also known as content switch or web switch which is an advance traffic management device. It is a suit of technology which provides availability, visibility, security and application acceleration. System performance & traffic is managed by delivery controller device which is fixed at data center end of the whole system, this device distributes the traffic among servers across different geographic locations.Get Sample Copy Of This Report @Increasing demand for cloud computing, big-data, and virtualization has increased the need for reliable and efficient webbing solutions. Dramatically changing web traffic patterns, such as from network oriented to bandwidth intensive solutions, voice, video, unstructured data and ERP support is expected to create opportunities for ADN market growth.Increasing efforts from enterprises to improve business agility and mobility, which involves application delivery network solutions, is expected to fuel the ADN market growth over the forecast period. Rising concerns regarding cost effectiveness and organizational profitability are also anticipated to foster the market growth.Ability of this system to protect critical data against malicious applications &content and ability to deliver the solution much faster among the enterprise is one of the key factorsdriving the market growth.Key manufacturers are included based on company profile, sales data and product specifications etc.:Citrix Systems, F5 Networks, Radware, A10 Networks, Akamai Technologies, Barracuda Networks, Brocade Communications systems, Fortinet, HPE, Juniper Networks, Riverbed TechnologyMajor applications as follows:High-TechEducationMedia And EntertaintmentBFSIGovernmentOthersMajor Type as follows:Application delivery controllers (ADC)WAN Optimization controllers (WOC)Application Security EquipmentsApplication GatewaysInquire Here Before Purchase of Research Report @About WMRWorldwide Market Reports is your one-stop repository of detailed and in-depth market research reports compiled by an extensive list of publishers from across the globe. We offer reports across virtually all domains and an exhaustive list of sub-domains under the sun. The in-depth market analysis by some of the most vastly experienced analysts provide our diverse range of clients from across all industries with vital decision making insights to plan and align their market strategies in line with current market trends.Contact Us:Mr. ShahWorldwide Market Reports1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154,U.STel: +1 415 871 0703Email:sales@worldwidemarketreports.com Global Smart Bras Market Growth 2019-2024 https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com/reports/846519/global-smart-bras-market https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com/reports/846519/global-smart-bras-market https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com Market Research Report Store offers a latest published report on Smart Bras Market Analysis and Forecast 2019-2025 delivering key insights and providing a competitive advantage to clients through a detailed report. The report contains 158 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:Smart Bra Device contains two sets of sensors which can detect a sudden surge in heart rate and the exertion of force on a bra. It sends out a message to police, and other people preset by the user, when she is being attackedAccording to this study, over the next five years the Smart Bras market will register a xx% CAGR in terms of revenue, the global market size will reach US$ xx million by 2024, from US$ xx million in 2019. In particular, this report presents the global market share (sales and revenue) of key companies in Smart Bras business, shared in Chapter 3.This report presents a comprehensive overview, market shares, and growth opportunities of Smart Bras market by product type, application, key manufacturers and key regions and countries.This study considers the Smart Bras value and volume generated from the sales of the following segments:Segmentation by product type: breakdown data from 2014 to 2019, in Section 2.3; and forecast to 2024 in section 11.7.FemaleGeneral PurposeSegmentation by application: breakdown data from 2014 to 2019, in Section 2.4; and forecast to 2024 in section 11.8.AthleteFemale ProtectionDisease DetectionOthersThis report also splits the market by region: Breakdown data in Chapter 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8.AmericasUnited StatesCanadaMexicoBrazilAPACChinaJapanKoreaSoutheast AsiaIndiaAustraliaEuropeGermanyFranceUKItalyRussiaSpainMiddle East & AfricaEgyptSouth AfricaIsraelTurkeyGCC CountriesThe report also presents the market competition landscape and a corresponding detailed analysis of the major vendor/manufacturers in the market. The key manufacturers covered in this report: Breakdown data in in Chapter 3.Catapult SportOmSignalVector-industryCyrcadia HealthSomaFirstwarning...In addition, this report discusses the key drivers influencing market growth, opportunities, the challenges and the risks faced by key manufacturers and the market as a whole. It also analyzes key emerging trends and their impact on present and future development.Research objectivesTo study and analyze the global Smart Bras consumption (value & volume) by key regions/countries, product type and application, history data from 2014 to 2018, and forecast to 2024.To understand the structure of Smart Bras market by identifying its various subsegments.Focuses on the key global Smart Bras manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the sales volume, value, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis and development plans in next few years.To analyze the Smart Bras with respect to individual growth trends, future prospects, and their contribution to the total market.To share detailed information about the key factors influencing the growth of the market (growth potential, opportunities, drivers, industry-specific challenges and risks).To project the consumption of Smart Bras submarkets, with respect to key regions (along with their respective key countries).To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market.To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their growth strategies.For More Information On This Report, Please Visit @Related Information:North America Smart Bras Market Growth 2019-2024United States Smart Bras Market Growth 2019-2024Asia-Pacific Smart Bras Market Growth 2019-2024Europe Smart Bras Market Growth 2019-2024EMEA Smart Bras Market Growth 2019-2024Global Smart Bras Market Growth 2019-2024China Smart Bras 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: Cloud IAM Market Expected to Increase Highest Revenue by 2025 with Demanding Key Vendors: CA Technologies, IBM Corporation, EMC Corporation, Intel Corporation, Dell Inc., Okta, Sailpoint Technologies Inc. Cloud IAM Market 2019-2025 https://www.orianresearch.com/request-sample/1035780 https://www.orianresearch.com/enquiry-before-buying/1035780 https://www.orianresearch.com/checkout/1035780 www.orianresearch.com/ www.linkedin.com/company-beta/13281002/ Global Cloud IAM Market report provides information on types, applications and its regional markets including past and expected (2019-2025) Opportunities. Cloud IAM Market report delivers data on Manufacturers, Geographical Regions, Types, Applications, Key Drivers, Challenges, Opportunities, Annual Growth Rate, Market Share, Revenue and the actual process of the whole industry. This Market report is a perfect source to acquire thorough synopsis on the market study, analysis, estimation and the factors influencing the industry.In 2018, the global Cloud IAM market size was 1530 million US$ and it is expected to reach 8620 million US$ by the end of 2025, with a CAGR of 24.1% during 2019-2025.Get Sample Copy @Cloud IAM access policies are used to assign users and service IDs access to the resources within your account.The cloud IAM market is segmented by components: access management, user provisioning, directory services, single sign-on, password management and audit, governance and compliance management. Further, the report has also been segmented by end user: small and medium businesses (SMBs) and enterprises; by verticals: BFSI, telecom and IT, energy, oil and gas, public sector and utilities, healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail and others; by region: North America, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa (MEA).Inquire more or share questions if any before the purchase on this report @The Global Cloud IAM Market 2019 report incorporates Cloud IAM industry volume, piece of the overall industry, Market Trends, Cloud IAM Growth perspectives, an extensive variety of uses, Utilization proportion, Supply and request examination, producing limit, Cloud IAM Price amid the Forecast Period from 2019 to 2025.Further, the Cloud IAM report gives data on the organization profile, piece of the pie and contact subtle elements alongside esteem chain examination of Cloud IAM industry, Cloud IAM industry standards and approaches, conditions driving the development of the market and impulse hindering the development. Cloud IAM Market improvement scope and different business techniques are additionally specified in this report.TOP PLAYERS of Cloud IAM Market: CA Technologies IBM Corporation EMC Corporation Intel Corporation Microsoft Corporation Dell Inc. Okta Sailpoint Technologies Inc. Onelogin Inc. Ping Identity Corporation Centrify Corporation Order a copy of Global Cloud IAM Market Report 2019 @Development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures are also analysed. This report also states import/export consumption, supply and demand Figures, cost, price, revenue and gross margins. The report focuses on global major leading Cloud IAM Industry players providing information such as company profiles, product picture and specification, capacity, production, price, cost, revenue and contact information.Market segment by Type, the product can be split into Access Management User provisioning Single Sign-On (SSO) Directories Password Management Audit governance and Compliance ManagementMarket segment by Application, split into SMB EnterprisesReasons to Buy : Current and future of Cloud IAM Market outlook in the developed and emerging markets Highlights key business priorities in order to assist companies to realign their business strategies The segment that is expected to dominate the Cloud IAM Market Regions that are expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period Identify the latest developments, Cloud IAM Market shares, and strategies employed by the major market players Save and reduce time carrying out entry-level research by identifying the growth, size, leading players and segments in the global Cloud IAM Market Develop/modify business expansion plans by using substantial growth offering developed and emerging marketsAbout Us:Orian Research is one of the most comprehensive collections of market intelligence reports on the World Wide Web. Our reports repository boasts of over 500000+ industry and country research reports from over 100 top publishers. We continuously update our repository so as to provide our clients easy access to the world's most complete and current database of expert insights on global industries, companies, and products. We also specialize in custom research in situations where our syndicate research offerings do not meet the specific requirements of our esteemed clients.Contact Us:Ruwin MendezVice President Global Sales & Partner RelationsOrian Research ConsultantsUS +1 (415) 830-3727| UK +44 020 8144-71-27Email: info@orianresearch.comWebsite:Follow Us on LinkedIn: Global Oncology Drugs Market is Estimated to Witness a CAGR of 7.0% During the Forecast Period 2018 - 2024 by Valuates Reports https://reports.valuates.com/sreport/INFO-Othe-136/Global_Oncology_Drugs_Market https://reports.valuates.com/request/sample/INFO-Othe-136/Global_Oncology_Drug_Market https://reports.valuates.com/request/discount/INFO-Othe-136/Global_Oncology_Drugs_Market https://reports.valuates.com/sreport/DPIR-Phar-41/Global_Oncology_or_Cancer_Blockbuster_Drugs_Market https://reports.valuates.com/ www.linkedin.com/company/valuatesreports www.facebook.com/valuatesreports www.twitter.com/valuatesreports www.instagram.com/reportsvaluates www.youtube.com/channel/UCH4wNXynaTZbiD5m92WQI4A The global oncology drugs market is estimated to witness a CAGR of 7.0% during the forecast period 20182024. The market is analyzed based on three segments: therapeutic modality, applications, and regions.Oncology drugs or anti-cancer drugs or anti-neoplastic drugs are agents that can be used alone or in combination to control or destroy neoplastic cells. These agents can be either systemic or targeted. In systemic, the drug spreads throughout the body, whereas in targeted, the drug or substance identifies the specific location causing less harm to the growth of neighboring healthy cells.View Full Report:Key Trends:The oncology drugs market, by applications, is segmented into breast cancer, blood cancer, prostate cancer, gastrointestinal cancer, lung cancer, and others. The incidence of cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally due to unhealthy food habits, changing lifestyle, and increasing consumption of tobacco-related products. According to the estimation of the National Cancer Institute, in the US, around 1.6 million new cases of cancer were diagnosed and 595,690 people died due to cancer in 2016. Nearly 60% of new cancer cases are from Africa, Asia, Central and South American countries and almost 70% of cancer deaths are from these regions. The Indian Council for Medical Research estimated around 1.4 million new cancer cases in 2016, which is expected to rise to 1.7 million cases by 2020.Increased prevalence of cancer, unhealthy lifestyle, and increasing geriatric population are the primary factors driving the market growth. However, the high cost of the drug & development process and side effects of the drug are the factors hampering the market growth. The development of pipeline oncology products and expiry of key patents are providing an opportunity for the manufacturers of cancer drugs.Key Players: F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., BristolMyers Squibb, Novartis AG, Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, Inc., Celgene Corporation, AstraZeneca PLC, GlaxoSmithKline plc, Eli Lilly and Company, Amgen Inc., Merck & Co., AbbVie, Inc., Sanofi, and other predominate & niche players.Competitive Analysis: The high adoption of personalized medicine and immuno-oncology have fueled a shift in cancer treatment from chemotherapy in the past decade. During 20112017, around 84 new chemotherapy drugs have been approved across 22 indications globally, of which immuno-oncology PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors have seen a speedy uptake based on their notable clinical profile and approval for various cancers. Additionally, there is a robust late-stage oncology pipeline with around 630 unique molecules in the development, i.e., more than 7% when compared to the previous year, including 278 biological therapies and 82 vaccines. The market is dominated by key vendors such as F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., BristolMyers Squibb, Novartis AG, Celgene Corporation, Pfizer Inc., and Johnson & Johnson; and products of these firms are available globally through their distributors and subsidiaries.Inquire for Sample:Regional Analysis: The regions covered in the report are North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World (RoW). North America is set to be the leading region for the oncology drugs market growth followed by Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World.Therapeutic Modality Analysis: The global oncology drugs market by therapeutic modality is segmented into chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and others. Chemotherapy occupied the largest share in 2017, and immunotherapy is expected to grow at a high CAGR in the coming years due to high efficiency, increased preference of targeted immunotherapy from chemotherapy, and fewer side effects.Applications Analysis: The global oncology drugs market by applications is segmented into breast cancer, blood cancer, prostate cancer, gastrointestinal cancer, lung cancer, and others. Blood cancer occupied the largest share in 2017, and lung cancer application is expected to be the fastest growing segment during the forecast period due to the high incidence of lung cancer and promising pipeline for NSCLC drugs.Inquire for Discount:Our aim is to collate unparalleled Market insights and notify our customers as and when it happens. Valuates is curating premium Market Research Reports from the leading publishers around the globe. We will help you map your information needs to our report repository of Market research reports and guide you through your purchasing decision. We are based out of silicon valley of India (Bengaluru) and provide 24/7 online and offline support to all our customers and just a phone call away.View Similar Reports:Oncology Blockbuster Drugs Market -Valuates Reportssales@valuates.comFor U.S. Toll Free Call +1 (425) 388-2538For IST Call +91-8040957137To know more visit us on:Website:Linkedin:Facebook:Twitter:Instagram:Youtube: Formalin Vials Market | Key Players: Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, F Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Johnson & Johnson, Kadmon Holdings https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-8322 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-8322 The Formalin is also known as methylene oxide, methylaldehyde, oxomethane and oxymethyline. Formaldehyde (Methanal) is generally used as an aqueous base, containing 36-38% formaldehyde. Demand for formalin vials is primarily driven by its extensive use in the production of various methanol-based resins. These resins (urea-formaldehyde, urea-melamine-formaldehyde, and melamine-formaldehyde) find application in various industrial manufacturing purposes. Due to cost advantages and superior functionality formaldehyde based resins are used in wood adhesives. Therefore, the wood industry remains a major consumer of formaldehyde products. In addition, the growth of the housing sector and increasing demand for wood-based housing materials will continue to drive the global demand for formalin vials. Also, widespread application of formaldehyde in varied industries continues to support the growth of the formalin vials market. On the other hand, stringent regulation on formaldehyde use in manufacturing particleboards and other consumer products is anticipated to impact formalin vials sales. Factors as such are expected to influence the global formalin vials market during the study period.Request For Report Sample @Formalin Vials Market: Drivers and RestraintsThus, the growing acceptance of formalin vials or tubes over other alternatives of formalin is anticipated to propel the revenue generation in formalin vials market over the forecast period. The standardized utilization of formalin vials lowers the risk of professionals getting into direct contact with hazardous formalin, thereby preventing the further risk of developing cancer. The Immunohistochemical (IHC) and molecular analyses that incurs huge cost and time investment. The test errors would lead to an increased rate of histological misdiagnoses thus followed by wrong treatment decisions. The dramatic increase in misdiagnoses is expected to have massive consequences on patient-centered care. Thus formalin is the best-preferred fixative agent used in histopathology over other alternatives, thereby anticipated to drive formalin vials market growth. However, the high occupational hazard associated with Formalin Vial's implications and stringent regulatory guideline for formalin use is anticipated the restraint the growth of the Formalin Vials market.Formalin Vials Market: SegmentationBased on product type, the Formalin Vials market is segmented into:Low VolumeMedium VolumeHigh VolumeBased on End User, the Formalin Vials market is segmented into:Emergency Medical ServicesHospitalsClinicsForensic LaboratoriesVeterinary ClinicsAcademic InstitutesDiagnostic LaboratoriesContract Research OrganizationsFormalin Vials Market: OverviewOver the last few years, an increase in the demand for prefilled formalin vials over the conventional formalin containers has been registered from the end users such as hospitals, academic institutes, forensic labs, emergency medical services, contract research organizations, and veterinary laboratories in Europe as compared to Asia Pacific region. As these prefilled formalin vials and tubes are safe owing to the least direct exposure with the pathologist, thereby Formalin Vials anticipated to register a high adoption over the study period and is expected to follow the same trend. An ultra-hygienic standard is required in quite a lot of facilities including health care facilities, majorly pharmaceutical companies, and the veterinary industry, livestock farming, sanitary facilities, schools, and food manufacturing industries. In-Depth infection prevention and control needs to be done in these industries. It can be achieved by intensive and frequent cleaning of these facilities with a wide range of products including disinfectants. Formaldehyde is, therefore, a broad spectrum disinfectant as it is active against various bacteria, fungi and spores, and viruses. The growing adoption of formalin as a disinfectant is anticipated to offer new growth opportunities to the formalin vials marketFormalin Vials Market: Region-Wise OverviewThe global Formalin Vials market is segmented into the following regions - North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific Excluding China & Japan, China, Japan, and the Middle East & Africa. North America is the leading regional market for Formalin Vials due to growing research on cancer and biopsy samples utilizing Formalin Vials in the region. In North America, the U.S. is the dominating Formalin Vials market owing to increasing number healthcare research and segregation of manufacturers in the country. Europe Formalin Vials market is anticipated to grow considerably higher owing to the inclination towards research associated with organ preservation. Japan and China is a growing at a fast pace due to growing application of formalin vials in sterilization. Growth in Latin America and the Middle East and Africa is considerably low due to lack of research initiatives and stringent regulation within formalin vials use.Request For Report Table of Content (TOC):Formalin Vials Market: Key ParticipantsExamples of some of the key participants in the Formalin Vials market are AbbVie Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, F Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Johnson & Johnson, Kadmon Holdings, Inc., and Merck & Co., Inc. among others.About UsFuture Market Insights is the premier provider of market intelligence and consulting services, serving clients in over 150 countries. FMI is headquartered in London, the global financial capital, and has delivery centres in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customised and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.Future market insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United States Chemical Distribution Market Insights, Industry Player (Univar, Helm, Brenntag, Nexeo Solutions), Key County Analysis (North America, United States, Europe, Japan, India) and Forecast 2019-2025 Market Research Hub https://www.marketresearchhub.com/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=2350268 https://www.marketresearchhub.com/report/global-chemical-distribution-market-size-status-and-forecast-2019-2025-report.html This research report titled Global Chemical Distribution Market Size, Status and Forecast 2019-2025 has been added to the wide online database managed by Market Research Hub (MRH). The study discusses the prime market growth factors along with future projections expected to impact the Chemical Distribution Market during the period between 2019 and 2025. The concerned sector is analyzed based on different market factors including drivers, restraints and opportunities in order to enlighten the readers about the actual scenario prevailing in the Chemical Distribution Market.Get Sample Copy of This Report @The chemical industry produces essential raw materials and supplies for companies in the manufacturing and industrial sectors.The key factors contributing to the growth of global chemical distribution market are the surging customer demand for services and reachable supply chain model.In 2018, the global Chemical Distribution market size was xx million US$ and it is expected to reach xx million US$ by the end of 2025, with a CAGR of xx% during 2019-2025.This report focuses on the global Chemical Distribution status, future forecast, growth opportunity, key market and key players. The study objectives are to present the Chemical Distribution development in United States, Europe and China.The key players covered in this studyUnivarHelmBrenntagNexeo SolutionsBarentzICC ChemicalsAzelisSafic-AlcanOmyaIMCDBiesterfeldMarket segment by Type, the product can be split intoPipelinesContainersBarrelsSacksMarket segment by Application, split intoOil and PetroleumCosmeticsFoodTextilePaintBuilding ConstructionAgricultureMarket segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaCentral & South AmericaBROWSE Full Report NOW @Table of Contents1 Report Overview1.1 Study Scope1.2 Key Market Segments1.3 Players Covered1.4 Market Analysis by Type1.4.1 Global Chemical Distribution Market Size Growth Rate by Type (2014-2025)1.4.2 Pipelines1.4.3 Containers1.4.4 Barrels1.4.5 Sacks1.5 Market by Application1.5.1 Global Chemical Distribution Market Share by Application (2014-2025)1.5.2 Oil and Petroleum1.5.3 Cosmetics1.5.4 Food1.5.5 Textile1.5.6 Paint1.5.7 Building Construction1.5.8 Agriculture1.6 Study Objectives1.7 Years Considered2 Global Growth Trends2.1 Chemical Distribution Market Size2.2 Chemical Distribution Growth Trends by Regions2.2.1 Chemical Distribution Market Size by Regions (2014-2025)2.2.2 Chemical Distribution Market Share by Regions (2014-2019)2.3 Industry Trends2.3.1 Market Top Trends2.3.2 Market Drivers2.3.3 Market Opportunities3 Market Share by Key Players3.1 Chemical Distribution Market Size by Manufacturers3.1.1 Global Chemical Distribution Revenue by Manufacturers (2014-2019)3.1.2 Global Chemical Distribution Revenue Market Share by Manufacturers (2014-2019)3.1.3 Global Chemical Distribution Market Concentration Ratio (CR5 and HHI)3.2 Chemical Distribution Key Players Head office and Area Served3.3 Key Players Chemical Distribution Product/Solution/Service3.4 Date of Enter into Chemical Distribution Market3.5 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion PlansMore Information@@@About Market Research HubMarket Research Hub (MRH) is a next-generation reseller of research reports of different sector like software market research and analysis. MRHs expansive collection of industry reports has been carefully curated to help key personnel and decision makers across industry verticals to clearly visualize their operating environment and take strategic steps.MRH functions as an integrated platform for the following products and services: Objective and sound market forecasts, qualitative and quantitative analysis, incisive insight into defining industry trends, and market share estimates. Our reputation lies in delivering value and world-class capabilities to our clients.Contact Us90 State Street,Albany, NY 12207,United StatesToll Free: 800-998-4852 (US-Canada)Email: press@marketresearchhub.com The International Remote Weapon Station Market will be Valued at US$ 17.9 Billion by 2025 - RightScale, Doublehorn, IBM, Capgemini, Dell Businessindustryreports have new report on Global Remote Weapon Station Market 2019-2025. The report provides the newest industry data and industry future trends. The industry report lists the leading competitors and provides the insights strategic industry Analysis of the key factors influencing the market. Global Remote Weapon Station Market valued approximately USD 7.1 billion in 2016 is anticipated to grow with a healthy growth rate of more than 11.0% over the forecast period 2017-2025. The Global Remote Weapon Station Market to reach USD 17.9 billion by 2025. Get Sample Copy of this Report @ https://www.businessindustryreports.com/sample-request/106790 . A remote weapon station, additionally alluded to as a remote weapon framework, (RWS) is a remotely worked weaponized framework for light and medium gauge weapons which can be introduced on ground battle vehicle or ocean and air-based battle stages. It is utilized on present day military vehicles, as it enables a heavy armament specialist to stay in the overall insurance of the vehicle. The remote weapon station permits portability, guard, and assault amid a battle, prompting a quickened development of the remote weapon station advertises. By types, the sensors segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the use of the sensor fusion technology, and the sensor suite, which continues to be upgraded to deliver enhanced detection and decision-making. Combining data from key sensors provides the warrior an autonomous ability to rapidly evaluate the overall tactical scenario and respond efficiently to identify threats. The increasing need for remote weapons station in the defense forces across the globe is the major driving factor for the remote weapon station market. The remote weapons station helps the military troops efficiently during close-in combat situations. Owing to this fact, the demand for remote weapons station is increasing among the defense forces in the developed as well as developing nations. Moreover, rise in political conflicts, and regional conflicts in different parts of the world is also increasing the usage of remote weapon stations by the homeland securities and law enforcement agencies, which is boosting the market to grow over the period. remote weapon system, (RWS) is a remotely operated weaponized system often equipped with fire-control system for light and medium caliber weapons which can be installed on ground combat vehicle or sea and air-based combat platforms. Such equipment is used on modern military vehicles, as it allows a gunner to remain in the relative protection of the vehicle. It may also be retrofitted onto existing vehicles, for example, the CROWS system is being fitted to American Humvees and the Thales SWARM for Bushmaster IMVs of the Royal Netherlands Army. Key Players: 1 RightScale, Inc 2 Doublehorn LLC. 3 IBM Co. 4 Capgemini S.A. 5 Dell Inc. 6 Jam Cracker Inc. 7 Accenture Plc and more........... Purchase this report online with 80 Pages, List of Tables & Figures and in-depth Table of Contents on Global Remote Weapon Station Market Outlook 2019-2025@ https://www.businessindustryreports.com/buy-now/106790/single . Segments and sub-segments by: Regions: 1 North America Country (United States, Canada) 2 Latin America (Brazil, Mexico) 3 Asia Country (China, Japan, India, Korea) 4 Europe Country (Germany, UK, France, Italy) 5 Other Country (Middle East, Africa, GCC) Type: 1 Military 2 Homeland Security Key questions answered in the report include: 1 What are the key factors driving the Remote Weapon Station market? 2 What are the key market trends impacting the growth of the global Remote Weapon Station market? 3 What are the challenges to Remote Weapon Station market growth? 4 Who are the key vendors in the global Remote Weapon Station market? 5 What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the vendors in the global Remote Weapon Station market? 6 What are the key outcomes of the five forces analysis of the global Remote Weapon Station market? Grab Your Report at an Impressive Discount @ https://www.businessindustryreports.com/check-discount/106790 . Table of Content: 1 Global REMOTE WEAPON STATION Market Definition and Scope 2 Research Methodology 3 Executive Summary 4 Global Remote Weapon Station Market Dynamics 5 Global Remote Weapon Station Market, By Type 6 Global Remote Weapon Station Market, By Insulation Material 7 Global Remote Weapon Station Market, By Component 8 Global Remote Weapon Station Market, By End-Use 9 Global Remote Weapon Station Market, by Regional Analysis 10 Competitive Intelligence About us: BusinessindustryReports.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 Contact Business Industry Reports Pune India sales@businessindustryreports.com +19376349940 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. Global Alkyl Polyglucoside Market Steady Growth to be Witnessed by 2019 to 2029 | Key Players are BASF SE, Dow Chemical Company, Huntsman Corporation, etc. https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=747 https://www.factmr.com/report/747/alkyl-polyglucoside-market https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=AE&rep_id=747 https://www.factmr.com/ The purpose of this rich study presented by FactMR is to elaborate the various market projections impacting the global alkyl polyglucoside market during the period until 2029. This assessment delivers high-end statistics concerning market size, Y-o-Y growth in trends and revenue share (US& Mn) linked to different geographies and segmentation types. Readers can acquire precise insights about growth trends along with opportunities that are expected to reshape the overall structure of the alkyl polyglucoside market during the forecast period.Request for a Free Sample Report -Regulatory bodies such as ECHA and CEFIC have laid stringent regulation on the use of inorganic surfactants owing to various environmental hazards associated with them. This has influenced the development of organic surfactants such as alkyl polyglucosides that are plant derived as they exhibit biodegradability and non-toxic characteristics. An insightful research report by FactMR reveals that the alkyl polyglucoside market is expected to rise at a value CAGR of 8.0% throughout the period of forecast, 2018-2028.Regulatory bodies such as ECHA and CEFIC have laid stringent regulation on the use of inorganic surfactants owing to various environmental hazards associated with them. This has influenced the development of organic surfactants such as alkyl polyglucosides that are plant derived as they exhibit biodegradability and non-toxic characteristics. Bio surfactants of vegetable origin, when used as co-surfactants, are typically incompatible with polymer additives and other synthetic surfactants. As compared to sugar surfactants, bio surfactants face limitations associated with shelf life, stability, foam quality, and appearance. In addition, sugar surfactants are ecofriendly and non-toxic, fuelled their use and production, which consequently has provided a wide scope for growth of alkyl polyglucosides market.With growing trend of green surfactants that are easily biodegradable, the use of bio-based surfactants is revving across industries such as cosmetics, agricultural applications, textile and industrial cleaning applications, to name a few. This has triggered the adoption of alkyl polyglucosides as surfactants in these industries as they display higher dispersing and wetting properties, enhanced foaming ability and detergency, high solubility and stability. The paradigm shift associated with environment and human protection has pushed manufacturers to focus on developing bio-based surfactants such as alkyl polyglucosides for several applications, which is expected to aid the growth of the polyglucoside market during the period of assessment.Browse Alkyl Polyglucoside Market Report Here -In addition, sustainability being the core focus, demand for sustainable solutions amongst consumers has risen, and has been recognized due to regulatory initiatives such as RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil) and DfE and new GHS (Globally Harmonized System) standards. This trend is expected to further the adoption of alkyl polyglucoside across various end use applications, them being nonionic plant-derived biodegradable surfactants.Given the significant proliferation of personal care products such as shampoos, the demand and adoption of alkyl polyglucoside is expected to witness a steady growth path during the period of forecast. Alkyl polyglucoside is largely used in shampoo formulations as they provide high foaming and cleansing properties that offer better soil and solid removal and are scalp and skin friendly. Owing to their cost efficient manufacturing and aforementioned benefits, players involved in manufacturing of personal care products are opting for alkyl polyglucosides in their products, which is anticipated to fuel the demand for alkyl polyglucoside during the assessment period.By far, alkyl polyglucoside, as natural or bio-based surfactants, have been largely used in skin care applications, industrial applications, as detergents and other applications. However, manufacturers have introduced alternative materials that can act as natural surfactants offering higher efficiency across various application areas. These alternatives, typically from the glucamide plant family, are widely being used in the cosmetics industry as they offer enhanced mildness, sustainability and are easily compatible to skin. In addition, they also deliver higher foam forming and cleaning efficiency than palm oil based surfactants and are in alignment with the Nordic and EU Ecolabel standards for environment health. Such alternatives are likely to exert negative impact on the adoption of alkyl polyglucoside surfactants, thereby impeding the growth of the alkyl polyglucoside market.Have Any Question? Ask Our Industry Experts -About FactMRFactMR 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 UsFactMR11140 Rockville PikeSuite 400Rockville, MD 20852United StatesEmail: sales@factmr.comWeb: Work Order Management Tools Market by Top Manufacturers eMaint CMMS, Maintenance Connection, Hippo CMMS, Facilities Management eXpress, MPulse, UpKeep Work Order Management Tools https://www.profresearchreports.com/request-sample/27736?utm_source=OPR&utm_medium=Anil https://www.profresearchreports.com/get-discount/27736?utm_source=OPR&utm_medium=Anil https://www.profresearchreports.com/work-order-management-tools-insights-2019-global-and-chinese-analysis-and-forecast-to-2024-market?utm_source=OPR&utm_medium=Anil Work Order Management Tools Market Insights 2019, Global and Chinese Scenario is a professional and in-depth study on the current state of the global Work Order Management Tools industry with a focus on the Chinese market. The report provides key statistics on the market status of the Work Order Management Tools manufacturers and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the industry. Overall, the report provides an in-depth insight of 2014-2024 global and Chinese Work Order Management Tools market covering all important parameters.Get Sample Copy of this Report @The key ponits of the report:1.The report provides a basic overview of the industry including its definition, applications and manufacturing technology.2.The report explores the international and Chinese major industry players in detail. In this part, the report presents the company profile, product specifications, capacity, production value, and 2014-2019 market shares for each company.3.Through the statistical analysis, the report depicts the global and Chinese total market of Work Order Management Tools industry including capacity, production, production value, cost/profit, supply/demand and Chinese import/export.4.The total market is further divided by company, by country, and by application/type for the competitive landscape analysis.5.The report then estimates 2019-2024 market development trends of Work Order Management Tools industry. Analysis of upstream raw materials, downstream demand, and current market dynamics is also carried out.6.The report makes some important proposals for a new project of Work Order Management Tools Industry before evaluating its feasibility.There are 3 key segments covered in this report: competitor segment, product type segment, end use/application segment.For competitor segment, the report includes global key players of Work Order Management Tools as well as some small players. At least 8 companies are included: eMaint CMMS, Maintenance Connection, Hippo CMMS, Facilities Management eXpress, MPulse, UpKeepFor complete companies list, please ask for sample pages.The information for each competitor includes: Company Profile Main Business Information SWOT Analysis Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin Market ShareAvail Discount on This Report @Reasons to Purchase this Report: Estimates 2019-2024 Work Order Management Tools market development trends with the recent trends and SWOT analysis Market dynamics scenario, along with growth opportunities of the market in the years to come Market segmentation analysis including qualitative and quantitative research incorporating the impact of economic and policy aspects Regional and country level analysis integrating the demand and supply forces that are influencing the growth of the market. Market value (USD Million) and volume (Units Million) data for each segment and sub-segment Competitive landscape involving the market share of major players, along with the new projects and strategies adopted by players in the past five years Comprehensive company profiles covering the product offerings, key financial information, recent developments, SWOT analysis, and strategies employed by the major market players 1-year analyst support, along with the data support in excel format.Access Full Report @About UsProf Research Report is a high-end market research & consulting firm that offers current and future market intelligence across 30+ industrial verticals such as energy, new materials, transportation, daily consumer goods, chemicals, etc. through its quality database. Prof Research Report has successfully utilized technology to manage complex and massive market related database, which offers research reports of high analytical value.5933 NE Win Sivers Drive, #205, Portland,OR 97220 United StatesDirect: +1-971-202-1575Toll Free: +1-800-910-6452E-mail help@bigmarketresearch.com Synthetic Food Market Competitive Strategies of Key Manufacturers by 2024| Aarkay Food Products, Archer Daniels Midland Company, Allied Biotech Corp https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/sample-report/58087-global-synthetic-food-market https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/request-discount/58087-global-synthetic-food-market https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/enquiry-before-buy/58087-global-synthetic-food-market https://www.linkedin.com/company/advance-market-analytics https://www.facebook.com/AMA-Research-Media-LLP-344722399585916 https://twitter.com/amareport This intelligence report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Synthetic Food Market. Accurate data on the products, strategies and market share of leading companies in this particular market are mentioned. This includes investigating past progress, ongoing market scenarios, and future prospects. Report provides a 360-degree overview of the global market's competitive landscape. The report further predicts the size and valuation of the global market during the forecast period.With the upsurging growth of the food & beverage industry with respect to increasing population and changing consumer preferences towards Ready to Eat (RTE) products will ultimately increase the demand for synthetic foods. In addition to this, changing consumption habits as well as consumer lifestyles are further increasing the demand for synthetic food items. Also, the growing demand for packaged food has fueled the adoption of artificial additives due to their strong role in enhancing product shelf life and retaining flavor and taste. Synthetic foods can be a variety of consumables which are manufactured with the help of artificial or biotechnological methods with the help of nutritive substances.Get Free PDF Sample Pages Of Synthetic Food Market Report:Major Key Players in This Report Include,Aarkay Food Products Ltd. (India), Archer Daniels Midland Company (United States), Allied Biotech Corp (Taiwan), BASF SE (Germany), Biolandes SAS (France), Chr. Hansen (Denmark), Dohler Group (Germany), D.D. Williamson & Co., Inc. (United States), FMC Corporation (United States) and Flavorchem Corporation (United States) are some of the key players profiled in the study. Additionally, the Vendors which are also part of the research are Fiorio Colori SRL (Italy), Falcon Essential Oils (India), Frutarom Industries Ltd. (Israel) and Sensient Technologies (United States).Competitive landscape gives a description of the competitive nature of the market shares, and a description of the leading companies. Key financial deals which have shaped the market in the last five years are identified. The trends and strategies section highlights the likely future developments in the market and suggests approaches.The regional analysis of Synthetic Food Market is considered for the key regions such as Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, Latin America and Rest of the World. North America is the leading region across the world. Whereas, owing to rising no. of research activities in countries such as China, India, and Japan, Asia Pacific region is also expected to exhibit higher growth rate the forecast period 2019-2025.For Early Buyers | Get Up to 20% Discount on This Premium Report:The Global Synthetic Food Market in terms of investment potential in various segments of the market and illustrate the feasibility of explaining the feasibility of a new project to be successful in the near future. The core segmentation of the global market is based on product types, SMEs and large corporations. The report also collects data for each major player in the market based on current company profiles, gross margins, sales prices, sales revenue, sales volume, photos, product specifications and up-to-date contact information.Strategic Points Covered in Table of Content of Synthetic Food Market:Chapter 1: Introduction, market driving force product Objective of Study and Research Scope the Synthetic Food marketChapter 2: Exclusive Summary the basic information of the Synthetic Food Market.Chapter 3: Displaying the Market Dynamics- Drivers, Trends and Challenges of the Synthetic FoodChapter 4: Presenting the Synthetic Food 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 2013-2018Chapter 6: Evaluating the leading manufacturers of the Synthetic Food market which consists of its Competitive Landscape, Peer Group Analysis, BCG Matrix & Company ProfileChapter 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 SourceFinally, Synthetic Food Market is a valuable source of guidance for individuals and companies.For More Information and Customization:Data Sources & MethodologyThe primary sources involves the industry experts from the Synthetic Food Market including the management organizations, processing organizations, analytics service providers of the industrys 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 Companys Annual reports, press Releases, Websites, Investor Presentation, Conference Call transcripts, Webinar, Journals, Regulators, National Customs and Industry Associations were given primary weight-age.About Author:Advance Market Analytics is Global leaders of Market Research Industry provides the quantified B2B research to Fortune 500 companies on high growth emerging opportunities which will impact more than 80% of worldwide companies' revenues.Our Analyst is tracking high growth study with detailed statistical and in-depth analysis of market trends & dynamics that provide a complete overview of the industry. We follow an extensive research methodology coupled with critical insights related industry factors and market forces to generate the best value for our clients. We Provides reliable primary and secondary data sources, our analysts and consultants derive informative and usable data suited for our clients business needs. The research study enable clients to meet varied market objectives a from global footprint expansion to supply chain optimization and from competitor profiling to M&As.Craig Francis (PR & Marketing Manager)AMA Research & Media LLPUnit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJNew Jersey USA 08837Phone: +1 (206) 317 1218sales@advancemarketanalytics.comConnect with us at Alpha Olefin Sulfonates (AOS) Market Likely to Inflict Positive Growth Trend during 2018-2027 | Key Players are Stepan Company, Huntsman Corporation, Pilot Chemical Company, etc. https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=591 https://www.factmr.com/report/591/alpha-olefin-sulfonate-market https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=AE&rep_id=591 https://www.factmr.com/ The purpose of this rich study presented by FactMR is to elaborate the various market projections impacting the global alpha olefin sulfonates (AOS) market during the period until 2027. This assessment delivers high-end statistics concerning market size, Y-o-Y growth in trends and revenue share (US& Mn) linked to different geographies and segmentation types. Readers can acquire precise insights about growth trends along with opportunities that are expected to reshape the overall structure of the alpha olefin sulfonates (AOS) market during the forecast period.Request for Sample Report -Emerging economies in the Asia-Pacific region represent high-potential markets for personal care products and cosmetics. As beauty and personal care products are among the biggest applications of alpha olefin sulfonates, the burgeoning growth of the personal care industry in the region is likely to create significant sales opportunities for alpha olefin sulfonates market players.Additionally, increasing economic growth of the developing Asian countries, such as China and India, is generating high demand for industrial surfactants such as alpha olefin sulfonates. To capitalize on the ever-growing consumption of alpha olefin sulfonates as a surfactant in wide-ranging industrial applications, leading alpha olefin sulfonates market players are investing heavily in local markets in the Asia-Pacific region.Some of the examples include:Clariant, a Swiss player in alpha olefin sulfonates market, has adopted a strategic framework to invest heavily in China in order to capitalize on a significant rise in local demand for surfactants, such as alpha olefin sulfonates. Along with its plans to set an integrated capacity and regional innovation center in Shanghai by 2020, the company has already opened its first online flagship store, to cater to the local demands, on 1688.com (Alibaba)Another player in the alpha olefin sulfonates market, Huntsman Corporation recently declared that the Asia-Pacific region accounted for over one-fourth of the companys $8 billion in revenues in 2017. The company is further investing in the region to expand its manufacturing facilities, as it recently opened a multi-purpose facility in Vietnam, right after the groundbreaking of its new production facility in China.AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals, a Dutch multinational company which was recently launched as Nouryon, announced that it has made a strategic investment of over 4.8 million to expand its Surface Chemistry facility in Boxing, China to improve operational excellence and establish a stronger position in the fabric softeners market and alpha olefin sulfonates market in the country.Stringent Safety Regulations Create Challenges for Alpha Olefin Sulfonates Market PlayersWhile manufacturers in the alpha olefin sulfonates market are concentrating their efforts on minimizing the cost of production, stringent standards and environmental regulations imposed are influencing competitive pricing.Browse Full Report on Market with TOC -The European Union has adopted REACH regulations, which stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals, to mitigate negative impacts of chemical products on the human health and the environment. All the chemical manufacturers, importers, distributors, downstream users, as well as alpha olefin sulfonates market players have to comply with REACH regulations to carry out operations in the European Economic Area (EEA). In addition, the United States Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has imposed labeling regulations for chemical products manufactured or marketed in the U.S., under its Safer Choice Program. Though participating in this program is not mandatory for alpha olefin sulfonates manufacturers, consumers in the U.S. prefer to purchase products that meet these standards.Although adherence to these regulations is beneficial considering the long-term impact of chemicals on the environment, a cost escalation is the bitter medicine in the short run.Biodegradability of Alpha Olefin Sulfonates: Key to Future AdoptionA majority of personal care product manufacturing companies are aiming to mitigate the environmental impacts of their manufacturing processes as consumers are becoming highly conscious about the carbon footprint of the products they use. While alpha olefin sulfonates exhibit a combination of good emulsification properties and foaming properties, these are also readily biodegradable, which boosts their applications in manufacturing eco-friendly surfactants, thereby, complementing growth of the alpha olefin sulfonates market.Consumers are becoming conscious about ingredients in personal care products by the virtue of rising awareness about the negative effects of chemicals on the skin. A majority of government organizations, including the Government of Canada, have declared that alpha olefin sulfonates are free from carcinogens, which further provides a fillip to the alpha olefin sulfonates market growth.Have Any Question? Ask Our Industry Experts -About FactMrFactMR 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 UsFactMR11140 Rockville PikeSuite 400, Rockville, MD 20852United StatesEmail: sales@factmr.comWeb: Functional Workwear Apparel Market Revenue Growth Predicted by 2017 to 2026 | Key Players are Fristads Kansas AB, V.F. Corporation, Rentokil Initial Plc, Ansell Ltd., etc. https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=338 https://www.factmr.com/report/338/functional-workwear-apparel-market https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=AE&rep_id=338 https://www.factmr.com/ The purpose of this rich study presented by FactMR is to elaborate the various market projections impacting the global functional workwear apparel market during the period until 2026. This assessment delivers high-end statistics concerning market size, Y-o-Y growth in trends and revenue share (US& Mn) linked to different geographies and segmentation types. Readers can acquire precise insights about growth trends along with opportunities that are expected to reshape the overall structure of the functional workwear apparel market during the forecast period.Request a Free Sample Report from Here Growing prevalence of diabetes has led to various foot related problems such as ulceration and neuropathy. In addition, increasing cases of arthritic foot leads to nagging pain, due to which the patients are required to wear protective cartilage. Prevalence of various foot related problems has led to an upsurge in demand for functional footwear workwear apparel. Manufacturers are focusing on designing apparels according to the professional requirements of the customers.Companies are increasingly defining the workwear according to the nature of profession. In addition, demand for protective workwear apparels that are equipped with protective features such as resistance from rain, sun, snow and wind will continue to increase in the manufacturing industry. As the workforce employed in the manufacturing industry are subject to extreme temperature, manufacturers are incorporating protective features such as safety glasses, personal flame-monitor, steel-toe boots and flame-resistant fabric.Technological Advancements to Underscore Lucrative OpportunitiesDemand for the functional workwear apparel will also continue to gain momentum bound to incorporation of technological advancements. Manufacturers are also increasingly designing garments quipped with functional details such as adjustable trouser length, extra stretch in the apparels. In addition, demand for workwear equipped with U.V protection features in the mining industry will continue to increase during the forecast period.Sports Industry to Contribute Towards Growth of Global MarketFunctional workwear apparel are also increasingly witnessing significant demand in the sports industry bound to growing need for boost in performance. Incorporation of aerodynamic features for sport activities such as skiing, cycling and swimming is further expected to impact growth of the global functional workwear apparel market. These factors are expected to contribute towards growth of the global functional workwear apparel market significantly during the forecast period.Browse Full Report on Market with TOC -Increasing employment opportunities and progress in the manufacturing industry is expected to rev up demand for functional workwear apparel in APEJ. On the basis of region, the functional workwear apparel market in APEJ is expected to represent a leading region in the global functional workwear apparel market during the forecast period. The functional workwear market in Europe is expected to represent positive growth bound to increasing investment in the research and development for fabric development and innovation. Manufacturers in this region are further focusing on equipping the workwear with advanced fabric that is durable, water-resistant and maintain body temperature.Based on workwear type, the uniform segment is expected to generate significant revenues, recording a value of over US$ 600 Mn by 2026-end. The synthetic fiber is expected to outsell the natural globally. In terms of revenue, the synthetic fiber is expected to represent a revenue growth of around US$ 600 Mn during the forecast period. By buyer sector, the service sector segment is expected to remain a dominant market. Throughout the forecast period, the service sector buyer sector segment is expected to witness significant revenue growth, representing a value of over US$ 300 Mn.Leading market players operating in the global functional workwear apparel market include Fristads Kansas AB, V.F. Corporation, Rentokil Initial Plc, Aramark, Ansell Limited, Engelbert Strauss GmbH & Co. KG, Sioen Industries NV, Carhartt, In, Delta Plus Group, Lakeland Industries, Inc, Duluth Holdings Inc., Delta Plus Group, Mascot International A/S, Superior Uniform Group, Inc, Alsico NV and Jonsson Workwear (Pty) Ltd.Have Any Question? Ask Our Industry Experts -About FactMRFactMR 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 UsFactMR11140 Rockville PikeSuite 400Rockville, MD 20852United StatesEmail: sales@factmr.comWeb: New Technology on Micro-Display Market 2019 Industry Application, Opportunity, Upcoming Trend by Top Key Profile: MicroVision, Syndiant, Kopin, Himax, Sony, EMagin Inc. Global Micro-Display Market 2019-2026 https://www.orianresearch.com/request-sample/1038297 https://www.orianresearch.com/enquiry-before-buying/1038297 https://www.orianresearch.com/checkout/1038297 www.linkedin.com/company-beta/13281002/ Global Micro-Display Market was estimated to be valued at USD XX million in 2018 and is projected to reach USD XX million by 2026, at a CAGR of XX% during 2019 to 2026. Low power consumption and compact size of micro-displays acts as one of the key driver. However, high cost and low picture quality at high temperature by micro-displays are one of the factors restraining the market growth.Get Sample copy @Key Market Players: - MicroVision, Sony Semiconductor Solution Corporation, Syndiant , EMagin Inc., AU Optronics Corp., Kopin Corporation, Himax Technologies Inc., Holoeye Photonics AG, Olightek Opto-Electronic Technology Co. Ltd., Jasper Display Corp.Based on display technology, the market is divided into:OLEDLCDDLPLCoSBased on industry vertical, the market is divided into:RetailHealthcareAerospace and DefenseAutomotiveConsumer ElectronicsOthersPage No: - 121Company profile:-10Inquire more or share questions if any before the purchase on this report @Key Benefits of the Report:Global, regional, industry vertical and display technology wise market size and their forecast from 2015-2026Identification and detailed analysis on key market dynamics, such as, drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges influencing growth of the marketDetailed analysis on product outlook with market specific Porters Five Forces analysis, PEST analysis, and Value Chain, to better understand the market and build expansion strategiesIdentification of key market players and comprehensively analyze their market share and core competencies, detailed financial positions, key products, and unique selling pointsAnalysis on key players strategic initiatives and competitive developments, such as joint ventures, mergers, and new product launches in the marketExpert interviews and their insights on market shift, current and future outlook, and factors impacting vendors short term and long term strategiesDetailed insights on emerging regions, industry vertical and display technology with qualitative and quantitative information and factsIdentification of the key patents filed in the field of micro-display marketResearch Methodology:-The market is derived through extensive use of secondary, primary, in-house research followed by expert validation and third party perspective, such as, analyst reports of investment banks.Secondary research is the primary base of our study wherein we conducted extensive data mining, referring to verified data sources, such as, white papers, government and regulatory published articles, technical journals, trade magazines, and paid data sources.Order a Copy of this Report @The market estimates and forecasts have been verified through exhaustive primary research with the Key Industry Participants (KIPs), which typically include:Micro-display ManufacturersConsumer Electronics ManufacturersGovernment Body and AssociationResearch InstitutesMarket Segment by Regions:-North America- U.S., CanadaEurope- Germany, U.K., Italy, Germany, France, Russia, Rest of EuropeAsia-Pacific- China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Rest of Asia PacificMiddle East & Africa- UAE, Saudi Arabia, Rest of Middle East & AfricaLatin America- Brazil, Mexico, Rest of Latin AmericaThe global Micro-Display market was estimated to be valued at USD XX million in 2018 and is projected to reach USD XX million by 2026, at a CAGR of XX% during 2019 to 2026.About Us:-Orian Research is one of the most comprehensive collections of market intelligence reports on the World Wide Web. Our reports repository boasts of over 500000+ industry and country research reports from over 100 top publishers. We continuously update our repository so as to provide our clients easy access to the world's most complete and current database of expert insights on global industries, companies, and products. We also specialize in custom research in situations where our syndicate research offerings do not meet the specific requirements of our esteemed clients.Contact Us:-Ruwin MendezVice President Global Sales & Partner RelationsOrian Research ConsultantsUS +1 (415) 830-3727| UK +44 020 8144-71-27Email: info@orianresearch.comFollow Us on LinkedIn: Anti-body Coupled T Receptor Therapy Market Growth and Revenue Opportunity Explained Anti-body Coupled T Receptor Therapy Market https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/1600 https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-discount/1600 Anti-body coupled T receptor (ACTR) therapy is kind of immunotherapy used to treat cancer in which bodys own immune response is utilized to act on cancerous cell. Anti-body coupled T receptor therapy utilizes T cells from body, engineered it to express specific T cell receptor, multiplying it in lab and then administering it along with targeting antibodies. The advantage in this approach is, that these T cells do not attack normal antigens from blood circulation but attack only antigens attached to the cancerous cells. This is possible as tumor specific monoclonal antibodies are given together with ACTR T cells. ACTR therapy is cost effective as it can be used in various cancer therapy. Also, greater therapeutic benefit with minimum side effects can be possible by adjusting the amount of targeting antibody which is essential for activation of the ACTR T cells.Request Sample Copy of Research Report @Rising incidence of cancer and new products to be launched in future to drive the market for anti-body coupled T receptor therapy market.According to World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is one of the leading non-communicable disease and second leading cause of death globally. As reported by International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in 2012, there were 14.1 million new cases, 8.8 million deaths and 32.6 million people living with cancer worldwide. As per 2017 report by Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, U.S. alone is expected to have prevalence of 8,16,834 and 80,500 annual new cases of lymphoma. Therefore, such high number of cancer patient would propel the anti-body coupled T receptor therapy market.ACTR therapy is better in its approach than other adoptive T cell transfer technologies such as CAR-T cell therapy. CAR-T therapy products such as Kymriah (Novartis AG) or Yescarta (Gilead Lifescience, Inc.) has side effects such as cytokine release syndrome, and neurological toxicity as discussed in their respective product literatures and other studies. ACTR therapy being specific in its action do not produce such side effects. This advantage would drive the anti-body coupled T receptor therapy market in future. Also CAR-T therapy has application in specific type of cancer such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, multiple myeloma whereas ACTR therapy has potential use even in solid tumorous cancer such as breast cancer, and neuroblastoma.Cost of product can be a major concern. Kymriah which is a CAR-T therapy costs approximately US$ 4,75,000 per patient. Considering such high cost for CAR-T therapy it can be assumed that anti-body coupled T receptor therapy can also costs on similar line as it works in same segment of immuno oncology, which may limit the potential growth of anti-body coupled T receptor therapy market.Ask For Discount Before Purchasing This Business Report @Strategic merger and acquisition amongst the companies to expand the market for anti-body coupled T receptor therapy.Unum Therapeutics is currently the only company that is working actively in anti-body coupled T receptor therapy. It has several product in its pipeline, and they vary based on the technology used for expression of receptor in patients T cell such as mRNA or viral vector. There is also combination of different monoclonal antibodies to be used for coupling such as rituximab, and trastuzumab. In phase one clinical trial, rituximab coupled t receptor therapy found to produce desired therapeutic effects. Seattle Genetics, Inc. and Unum Therapeutics, Inc. in 2015 entered into a strategic collaboration and license agreement to develop and commercialize novel antibody-coupled T-cell receptor (ACTR) therapies for cancer. This collaboration would enable study of different combination of the tumor-specific monoclonal antibodies with T receptor and cater to patient specific treatment needs.About Coherent Market InsightsCoherent 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 UsMr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave, #3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com Isopropanol Market Expansion Projected to Gain an Uptick During 2018 to 2028 | Key Player are Exxon Mobil Corporation, Mitsui Chemicals Inc., Tokuyama Corporation, etc. https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=RC&rep_id=836 https://www.factmr.com/report/836/isopropanol-market https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=AE&rep_id=836 https://www.factmr.com/ The purpose of this rich study presented by FactMR is to elaborate the various market projections impacting the global isopropanol market during the period until 2028. This assessment delivers high-end statistics concerning market size, Y-o-Y growth in trends and revenue share (US& Mn) linked to different geographies and segmentation types. Readers can acquire precise insights about growth trends along with opportunities that are expected to reshape the overall structure of the isopropanol market during the forecast period.Request For Report Sample Here -Isopropanol has gained immense significance as an effective solvent across various industrial sectors in light of its complete miscibility in most of the solvents including water. Isopropanol has been deemed as an accurate solvent for compounds such as natural & epoxy resins, alkaloids, ethyl cellulose, and essential oils. Fast evaporating property of isopropanol that leaves zero oil traces, and its lower toxicity, coupled with the estimated future phase out of ethanol will continue to augur well for its market growth in the near future.On account of its miscibility in non-polar solvents, isopropanol has gained traction as an essential prerequisite for cleaning pores present in electronic components. The compound witnessed robust demand as a popular cleaner in the semiconductor and electronics industries, as it readily dissolves ionic flux residues, light organic contaminants, and dirt particles. Referred to rubbing alcohol, isopropanol is increasingly being used as a sterilizer and disinfectant in home applications.Prospects of the isopropanol market will remain modest, as the industry matures and witnesses confinements in innovations & developments. A recent FactMR report estimates nearly 3750 thousand tons of isopropanol to be sold worldwide by 2028-end. The report states that Isopropanol market in North America and Europe represents a consolidated landscape, while in Asia-Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ) the market is ruled by small and medium-sized enterprises. The report systematically represents an intensity-based presence of key players in the isopropanol market through a graph as illustrated below.Isopropanol forms an integral ingredient in the production of rubbing alcohol, disinfecting pads, and hand sanitizer. The compound also serves as an efficacious skin soother, and pain reliever. Banking on these attributes of isopropanol, pharmaceutical companies highly seek its pharmaceutical-grade variant for use as a solvent during the production of pharmaceutical products that comprise 67-70% isopropanol in water. Semiconductor- or electronic-grade isopropanol is sought-after for use as an exclusive cleaner and solvent in the industry.Browse Isopropanol Market Report with TOC Demand for electronic-grade isopropanol has witnessed a significant surge, backed by the proliferation in semiconductor ICs and consumer electronics. Leading stakeholders are adopting capacity extension strategies to keep up with the rising demand. In 2017, Sumitomo Chemical commenced construction of new plant for production of high purity isopropanol in China.Isopropanol witnessed a notable rise in domestic and spot prices in first quarter of 2017, on account of increasing costs of feedstock propylene. Amid broadening demand-supply gap, major isopropanol manufacturers that include LyondellBasell, Monument, Shell, and ExxonMobil independently raised their isopropanol costs, and the trend continued in 2018, with these stakeholders announcing a price hike of 5 cents/lb. Isopropanol industrys future growth will be significantly affected from these price fluctuations. Additionally, growing crude oil costs driven by the prevailing oil crisis will continue to influence the expansion of the isopropanol market.A key trend being observed in the isopropanol market is increasing use of the compound as a biofuel. Recent studies conducted to devise engineered synthetic pathways to produce isopropanol from microbes point at the potential of isopropanols used as a biofuel to replace gasoline. In addition, isopropanols production using lignocellulosic waste has represented a lucrative avenue for economically-viable manufacturing of the compound. The imminent era of green chemicals, which promotes adoption of bio-based chemicals, will significantly complement such biological production methods of isopropanol in the upcoming years.Have Any Question? Ask Our Industry Experts -About FactMrFactMR 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 UsFactMR11140 Rockville PikeSuite 400, Rockville, MD 20852United StatesEmail: sales@factmr.comWeb: North America Microgrid Market startups shine in the $7 billion | By Top Players: ABB, Eaton, Siemens, Schneider Electric, Toshiba Corporation, Honeywell, Tesla, Caterpillar, Hitachi, EnSync, Lockheed Martin Corporation https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/2833 https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/2833 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/north-america-microgrid-market https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/dynamic-application-security-testing-dast-market https://www.gminsights.com http://solutionrocket.com Canada microgrid market is set to exceed installation of 400 MW by 2024. Increasing investments toward sustainable energy sources along with accelerating power demand from off-grid and remote areas will encourage the technology adoption. In addition, the growing development of renewable energy sources to reduce the dependence on conventional grid network will positively impact the business growth. For instance, in 2016, the Government of Canada invested around USD 2.4 billion toward the development of numerous energy sources including wind and solar.Request for a sample of this research report @Increasing penetration of captive power plants to provide regulated power supply across the industrial and manufacturing sector will expand the North America microgrid market size. In addition, the upsurge in investments toward the development of decentralized grid along with growing investment opportunities toward infrastructure and energy sector will further propel the industry growth. According to the Government of Canada, in 2016, around USD 900 million were invested toward research, development and deployment of various energy sources across the nation.Flow battery in 2017, accounted for over 5% of the North America microgrid market share. Rapid technological advancement toward the development of efficient and cost-effective storage systems coupled with growing investments toward the integration of renewable grid infrastructure will positively influence the product demand. High efficiency and longer life cycles are some of the key features which will make its adoption preferable over other alternatives.Make an inquiry for purchasing this report @Increasing spending toward the exploration of unconventional reserves on account of growing gas demand across the region will propel the natural gas microgrid market. Favorable government initiatives and policies toward the development of low emission fuel as a substitute to conventional fuel sources will stimulate the industry growth. For instance, in 2017, Amren Corporation announced the completion of technologically advanced microgrid network which uses wind, solar and natural gas as a power source with advanced automation and battery storage system.Extensive electricity requirement for manufacturing operations, industries, offices, retail outlets, automotive and hospitals will complement the microgrid market across industries/commercial applications. In addition, escalating high end power consumption on account of the presence of new heavy load machinery and HVAC systems will complement the business outlook. According to EIA in 2017, the industrial and commercial sector consumed 22.4% and 4.5% of the primary energy respectively.Company profiled in this report based on Business overview, Financial data, Product landscape, Strategic outlook & SWOT analysis: ABB Ltd Eaton Corporation Siemens Schneider Electric Caterpillar Inc. Honeywell International Homer Energy LLC Tesla EnSync Inc Advanced Microgrid Solutions Viridity Energy Solutions, Inc Toshiba Corporation Exelon Corporation Power Analytics Corporation Hitachi Lockheed Martin CorporationNorth America Microgrid Market size will exceed USD 7 billion by 2024, as reported in the latest study by Global Market Insights, Inc. Favorable government policies pertaining to integration of sustainable energy technology along with aging grid infrastructure will foster the North America microgrid market. Relatively low power cost, reliability, economic competitiveness and reduced transmission losses are some of the underlined parameters which will encourage the product adoption. In addition, increasing investments toward the expansion of distributed generation technologies will further complement the industry growth.Browse Full Report:Notable industry players across the North America microgrid market includes Schneider Electric, GE Alstom, ABB, Siemens, Caterpillar Inc, Honeywell, Tesla, EnSync Inc, Virdity Energy Solutions, Toshiba, Exelon, Advanced Microgrid Solutions, Power Analytics Corporation, Hitachi, and Lockheed Martin.Browse Related Report:Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) Market Size, Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (U.S., Canada, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Russia, Spain, China, India, Japan, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, GCC, South Africa), Growth Potential, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2018 2024About Global Market Insights:Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb:Blog: In-vitro Diagnostics (IVD) Market Industry Growth, Analysis By Leading Key Players: Roche Diagnostics, Siemens Healthineers, Abbott Laboratories, Sysmex Corporation In-vitro Diagnostics www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/195 https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/market-insight/in-vitro-diagnostics-ivd-market-195 Among application, infectious diseases segment accounted for the highest revenue in the in-vitro diagnostics (IVD) market. The segment is expected to grow by 1.5X at a CAGR of 4.4% between 2016 and 2024. The prevalence of infectious diseases has increased considerably over the past few years. In 2016, morbidity cases in tuberculosis, salmonella and meningococcal disease was as high as 90,000 in the U.S. These factors have led to increasing demand for IVD from diagnostic centers, thereby driving growth of the market.As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 3.9 million patients visited hospital outpatient department for infectious and parasitic diseases. The demand for IVD is expected to increase, as it is largely used for the detection of autoimmune disorders and infectious diseases.Ask for the Sample of the Study:North America is highest contributing region for In vitro diagnostics (IVD) market, with a projected market share of 46.7% by 2024, expanding at the fastest CAGR of 5.4% between 2016 and 2024. Changing healthcare landscape, favorable regulatory policies such as Medicaid and Medicare along with significant healthcare spending (16.7%) is expected to boost the market for IVD in the region. Though the market outlook seems lucrative in North America, reimbursement pressure, increased usage of companion diagnostic and significant growth potential of next generation sequencing (NGS) are key challenges for the industry players in the North America.Companion diagnostics market is proliferating at faster market pace compared to IVD. As such, product innovation in the segment is the key focus area for market players. North America has also seen some of the major mergers and acquisitions in the recent past, to tap into market opportunities. For instance, Roche acquired Ventana Medical in 2008. In 2011, Novartis acquired Genoptix to capture a greater chunk of market in the U.S.Market players are focused towards research and development to expand their business reach in the market. Moreover, industry players are focused towards generating revenue from respective key product segment. For instance, while Roche and Siemens are active players in clinical chemistry IVD product segment, Allere and Abbott holds key market share in point of care IVD solutions.Furthermore, the In vitro diagnostics (IVD) market is expected to witness mergers and acquisition in near future, wherein leading players are expected to acquire regional companies based in emerging economies. Similar trends have been noticed in recent past where leading players acquired/partnered with regional players. For instance, Roche acquired majority stake in Foundation medicine with US$ 1.2 Bn in 2015.Several factors driving growth of the in vitro diagnostic market include high unmet healthcare needs in categories of infectious disease, chronic disease, and other acute allergies. Furthermore, high prevalence of cancer along with high demand for lab automation is expected to support growth of the in vitro diagnostic market in the near future. In 2015, according to the National Cancer Institute, majority of share in the type of cancer was contributed by lung and bronchus cancer, followed by colon, rectum and other type of cancers. Furthermore, in 2015, around 1.7 million new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the U.S., which is propelling demand for adoption of diagnostic tests worldwide.For More Information On This Report, Please Visit @Market players are focused on expanding their product portfolio with wide applications of the IVD in healthcare sector, which is expected to offer various choices to the physicians for the appropriate type of test in particular symptoms, which is further expected to favor growth of IVD market in near future. Key players in the IVD market are focused on inorganic growth strategies such as mergers and acquisitions to maintain leading position in the market.For instance, in 2015, Roche acquired Signature Diagnostics AG based in Potsdam, Germany, which is expected further to strengthen the companys next generation sequencing (NGS) diagnostic segment.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 Single-Use Bioprocessing Systems Market 2024 by Top Key Players are arpon Biosystems Inc., GE Healthcare, STI Components Inc., Parker Hannifin Corporation, Pall Corporation, Eppendorf AG, Cellexus Ltd. https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/single-use-bioprocessing-systems-market/report-sample https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/single-use-bioprocessing-systems-market https://www.psmarketresearch.com Rising demand of disposables in biopharmaceutical production, increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, which requires biological drugs for their management and treatment, low manufacturing costs of disposable products and instrument, and improving life science research infrastructure are some of the growth drivers of the global single-use bioprocessing systems market. In addition, technological advancement in bioprocessing systems is also driving the growth of global single-use bio-processing systems market. Increasing numbers of mergers and acquisitions and rapid product launches are some of the major trends, observed in the global single-use bioprocessing systems market.Download free report sample at:Single-use bioprocessing technology is mainly used in the development and production of biopharmaceuticals. The technology is used throughout the workflow of biopharmaceutical production, starting from buffer and media preparation to bioreactor cultures for vaccines to the storage and shipping of intermediates and bulk biologics. Single-use bio-processing techniques are carried out through several products. Some of the major products include manifold assemblies, bioprocess containers and bags, single-use bioreactors, outer support containers, and single-use mixers. These products reduce cost related to the complex bioproduction procedures, such as cleaning, sterilization, and care of the large bioreactors.Europe and North America are the major markets for single-use bioprocessing systems, attributed to the increased life science research and growing demand for biopharmaceuticals. Asia-Pacific market for the single-use bioprocessing systems is growing at a significant rate owing to improving life science infrastructure and increasing investment by several pharmaceutical manufacturing companies for the development of R&D plants in the region. Apart from these regions, Latin America and Middle-East are other important markets of single-use bio-processing systems.Browse full report at:Some of the major players operating in global single-use bioprocessing systems market include Tarpon Biosystems Inc., GE Healthcare, STI Components Inc., Merck & Co Inc., Saint-Gobain Corporation, Sartorius Stedim Biotech SA, PendoTECH, ThermoFisher Scientific Inc., Parker Hannifin Corporation, Pall Corporation, Eppendorf AG, Cellexus Ltd. and Broadley-James Ltd.About P&S IntelligenceP&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 IntelligenceToll-free: +1-888-778-7886 (USA/Canada)International: +1-347-960-6455Email: enquiry@psmarketresearch.comWeb: Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Market 2019-2024 Analysis Reports Revenue Growth during the Forecast Period | Market players Auxilium Pharmaceuticals, Sobi Qurate Business Intelligence https://www.qurateresearch.com/report/sample/HnM/QBI-BIS-HnM-350359 https://www.qurateresearch.com/report/enquiry/HnM/QBI-BIS-HnM-350359 https://www.qurateresearch.com/report/buy/HnM/QBI-BIS-HnM-350359/ https://www.qurateresearch.com/ With the slowdown in world economic growth, the Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum industry has also suffered a certain impact, but still maintained a relatively optimistic growth, the past four years, Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum market size to maintain the average annual growth rate of 15 from XXX million $ in 2014 to XXX million $ in 2018, our analysts believe that in the next few years, Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum market size will be further expanded, we expect that by 2023, The market size of the Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum will reach XXX million $.Global Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Market Report covers the manufacturers data, including: shipment, price, 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, volume and value, as well as price data.Besides, the report also covers segment data, including: type segment, industry segment, channel segment etc. cover different segment market size, both volume and value. Also cover different industries clients information, which is very important for the manufacturers.Get Free Sample Copy of Report @The Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Industry report is business intelligence assessment envisioned to offer comprehensive understanding of global market scenario. It strives to evaluate the key components of the industry which have superior impact on it. This includes numerous fundamentals of significant nature including market overview, segmental breakdown, competition landscape, value chain analysis, major players review, and more. Also, the report inspects worldwide market on the basis of several analysis techniques including SWOT and Porters Five Forces. Here it aims to deliver critical analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats as well. This might assist readers to comprehend current scenario of the market and make predictions about future course of it.Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Industry report further stocks market intelligence in relevance with few more treasured aspects of the market such as regulation scenario, supply chain analysis, patents and standards, regional market summary and more. While entailing variety of information related to each of the segments, the study attempts examine each segment on various parameters in order to offer incisive business acumen to readers.Market Segmentation:The Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Industry categorizes whole worldwide market into several segments for better understanding. This has been done based on different kinds of parameters including product type, service type, application, end use, technology, geographical region, etc. This delivers thorough description of each segments which may benefit readers in understanding the market into smaller bits of it. The study offers insights in relevance with various elements of each segment including market share, revenue, past performance, growth drivers, future outlook and more.To book MOST UPDATED VERSION (2019) of the report @Key Players Analysis:Owing to mounting pace of growth, swelling demand, varying regional market scenarios and more factors of such nature, numerous companies have arrived in this industry in recent past. However, very few of it can be recognized as significant players of the industry. To name a few Auxilium Pharmaceuticals, Sobi.The Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Industry report delivers in-depth analysis of these key players where it tries to evaluate these companies on the basis of different parameters such as company profile, revenue, business overview, historic data figures, product or service portfolio, profits and more. This might provide brief idea about competitive dashboard of the industry.In addition, it also shares remarkable information in relevance with industry dynamics including market growth drivers, challenges faced by major players, opportunities, new entrants tips, trends, and more.Table of Contents:1. Industry Overview2. Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats Analysis3. Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Industry Trends4. Market Segmentation5. Geographical Review6. Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Industry Competitive Insights7. Key Players Analysis8. Market ForecastPlace Purchase Order for this Report @About Us:Qurate Business Intelligence delivers unique market research solutions to its customers and help them to get equipped with refined information and market insights derived from reports. We are committed to providing best business services and easy processes to get the same. Qurate Business Intelligence considers themselves as strategic partners of their customers and always shows the keen level of interest to deliver quality.Contact Us:Nehal ChinoyRunwal Platinum,Ramnagar Colony, Bavdhan,Pune, Maharashtra, India-411021IN +919881074592info@qurateresearch.com Beverage Refrigeration Market Revenue & Growth Forecast 2019-2024 By Top Players - Dover Corporation, Electrolux, Whirlpool Corporation, GE, Haier Beverage Refrigeration Market https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/2111 https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/2111 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/beverage-refrigeration-market https://www.gminsights.com/ https://www.gminsights.com/ This can be credited to escalating consumption of refreshment drinks and technological improvements in refrigeration systems. In addition, government encouraging utilization of energy-efficient and eco-friendly technologies in refrigerators.Beverage Refrigeration Market to reach USD 4.5 billion by 2024. Escalating demand for refrigerators to store and serve drinks for social gathering and private events, is a key factor driving beverage refrigeration market growth. Ongoing technological advances to reduce the overall cooling time and consumer demand for distinctive features such as bottom freezer drawer and powerful filtered water will boost beverage refrigeration market.Request for a sample copy of this report @Manufacturers are anticipated to invest in new product development to comply with new energy standards implemented by the regulatory bodies. Further, increasing penetration of refrigerators that employ specific features such as modifiable shelves to accommodate bottles and cans will boost product sales.Increasing consumer preference for packaged drinks which are convenient to consume at home will support the product demand. According to recent statistics, the global consumption of packaged drinks was estimated more than 1.05 trillion liters in 2016 and Chinese consumption amounted to about 178.6 billion liters.Beverage Refrigeration Market, By Producto Under counter beverage refrigerator Gliding door Swing Dooro Countertop beverage refrigerator Gliding door Swing dooro Storage beverage refrigeratoro Milk coolersMake an Inquiry for purchasing this Report @Under counter beverage refrigerator was valued at over USD 1 billion in 2016. Product offering such as stainless-steel body or custom panel-ready fronts are stimulating the demand. In addition, better shelving and temperature control will support segment penetration over the forecast period.Rising demand to preserve milk in dairy shops will propel coolers demand over the projected timeframe. Diary companies are upgrading their existing capacities, and setting up cold storages along with the processing plant. This will generate the overall revenue over the forecast period.Asia Pacific market holds over 20% of overall industry share in 2016. According to industry estimates, the region is anticipated to account for more than two-thirds of the global beverages consumption by 2020. The region accounts for 60% of the world population and increasing consumption will provide lucrative opportunities for manufacturers.Browse Report Summery @Global Beverage Refrigeration Market is fragmented in nature. Key industry players are Electrolux, Daikin Industries, Avanti, Dover Corporation, KingsBottle, Whirlpool Corporation, Edgestar, Haier, Ford and General Electrics. Other Industry participants are Koolatron, Coca-Cola, Danfoss, Gamko, Liebherr, Marvel, Kegco, Danby, Johnson Controls, U-line, HABCO, Allavino, Kenmore, Marvel, United Technologies Corporation and Illinois Tool Works.Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone:1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb:Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone:1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb: Global Glycinates Market Insights, Industry Player (BASF, Solvay, Ajinomoto, Clariant, Albion Laboratories), Key County Analysis (North America, United States, Europe, Japan, India) and Forecast 2019-2025 Market Research Hub https://www.marketresearchhub.com/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=2360201 https://www.marketresearchhub.com/report/global-glycinates-market-insights-forecast-to-2025-report.html Market Research Hub (MRH) has actively included a new research study titled Global Glycinates Market Insights, Forecast to 2025to its wide online repository. The concerned market is discoursed based on a variety of market influential factors such as drivers, opportunities and restraints. This study tends to inform the readers about the current as well as future market scenarios extending up to the period until forecast period limit; 2025. In addition, a deep analysis of the competitive landscape, including prime market players is also enclosed in this reportGet Sample Copy of This Report @t.Glycine is an amino acid of endogenous antioxidant reductive glutathione. It is often added exogenously in severe stress, sometimes called semi-essential amino acid.The feed additive segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. North America is projected to be the fastest-growing region in the market during the forecast period.The global Glycinates 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 Glycinates market based on company, product type, end user and key regions.This report studies the global market size of Glycinates in key regions like North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Central & South America and Middle East & Africa, focuses on the consumption of Glycinates in these regions.This research report categorizes the global Glycinates market by top players/brands, region, type and end user. This report also studies the global Glycinates market status, competition landscape, market share, growth rate, future trends, market drivers, opportunities and challenges, sales channels and distributors.The following manufacturers are covered in this report, with sales, revenue, market share for each company:BASFSolvayAjinomotoClariantAlbion LaboratoriesShijiazhuang Donghua Jinlong ChemicalGalaxy SurfactantsNovotech NutraceuticalsSchaumannDunstan NutritionAliphosChaitanya ChemicalsProvitMarket size by ProductDryLiquidMarket size by End UserPharmaceuticals/NutraceuticalsFood AdditivesFeed AdditivesPersonal Care ProductsMarket size by RegionNorth AmericaUnited StatesCanadaMexicoAsia-PacificChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaAustraliaIndonesiaSingaporeMalaysiaPhilippinesThailandVietnamEuropeGermanyFranceUKItalySpainRussiaCentral & South AmericaBrazilRest of Central & South AmericaMiddle East & AfricaGCC CountriesTurkeyEgyptSouth AfricaBROWSE Full Report NOW @Table of Contents1 Study Coverage1.1 Glycinates Product1.2 Market Segments1.3 Key Manufacturers Covered1.4 Market by Type1.4.1 Global Glycinates Market Size Growth Rate by Product1.4.2 Dry1.4.3 Liquid1.5 Market by End User1.5.1 Global Glycinates Market Size Growth Rate by End User1.5.2 Pharmaceuticals/Nutraceuticals1.5.3 Food Additives1.5.4 Feed Additives1.5.5 Personal Care Products1.6 Study Objectives1.7 Years Considered2 Executive Summary2.1 Global Glycinates Market Size2.1.1 Global Glycinates Revenue 2014-20252.1.2 Global Glycinates Sales 2014-20252.2 Glycinates Growth Rate by Regions2.2.1 Global Glycinates Sales by Regions2.2.2 Global Glycinates Revenue by Regions3 Breakdown Data by Manufacturers3.1 Glycinates Sales by Manufacturers3.1.1 Glycinates Sales by Manufacturers3.1.2 Glycinates Sales Market Share by Manufacturers3.1.3 Global Glycinates Market Concentration Ratio (CR5 and HHI)3.2 Glycinates Revenue by Manufacturers3.2.1 Glycinates Revenue by Manufacturers (2014-2019)3.2.2 Glycinates Revenue Share by Manufacturers (2014-2019)3.3 Glycinates Price by Manufacturers3.4 Glycinates Manufacturing Base Distribution, Product Types3.4.1 Glycinates Manufacturers Manufacturing Base Distribution, Headquarters3.4.2 Manufacturers Glycinates Product Type3.4.3 Date of International Manufacturers Enter into Glycinates Market3.5 Manufacturers Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion PlansMore Information@@@About Market Research HubMarket Research Hub (MRH) is a next-generation reseller of research reports of different sector like pharmaceuticals market research and analysis. MRHs expansive collection of industry reports has been carefully curated to help key personnel and decision makers across industry verticals to clearly visualize their operating environment and take strategic steps.MRH functions as an integrated platform for the following products and services: Objective and sound market forecasts, qualitative and quantitative analysis, incisive insight into defining industry trends, and market share estimates. Our reputation lies in delivering value and world-class capabilities to our clients.Contact Us90 State Street,Albany, NY 12207,United StatesToll Free: 800-998-4852 (US-Canada)Email: press@marketresearchhub.com ECT TELEVOTING TECHNOLOGY PRESENT AT EUROVISION 2019 Munich, May 28th, 2019 ECT (European Computer Telecoms AG), Europes leading communications software company for the realization of value-added services in nextgeneration networks, adds another year as an important contributor to an impeccable streak of televoting results from the Eurovision Song Contest 2019.By providing our effECTive Televoting system to major carriers in Germany, Sweden and other countries, ECT has supported the annual song contest for many years running. Our solution allows callers to vote for their favorite performers, and for event organizers and networks to track the tally in real-time. It supports thousands of call attempts and messages per second (CAPS) and its highly redundant and reliable.As this years event demonstrated, humans are error-prone if allowed to take part in the process, while quality technology can always be relied on, as stated by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). The EBU can confirm, following standard review practices, we have discovered that due to a human error an incorrect aggregated result was used. This had no impact on the calculation of points derived from televoting across the 41 participating countries and the overall winner and Top 4 songs of the [Eurovision Song Contest 2019] remain unchanged, they stated in a press release dated Wednesday, May 22.Its our tried and true technology that imbues our platform with the reliability and stability our customers require for mass calling events like the Eurovision Song Contest, says Dr. Marshall E. Kavesh, CEO of ECT. Our effECTive Televoting platform is a robust and powerful solution like no other. We are always looking forward to providing our partners with solutions they can trust implicitly, no matter the scale.If you are interested in knowing more about our televoting solutions, or our wide array of products, contact us at communications@ect-telecoms.deAbout ECT (European Computer Telecoms AG):ECT is Europes leading communications software company. With our virtualized INtellECT Service Delivery Platform, innovative service applications and our Joint Agile Product Development Program, major communications service providers worldwide realize their products with minimal costs and the shortest possible time-to-market. We also often migrate existing services from multiple legacy platforms, innovating and consolidating them in one multiservice solution. As a one-shop vendor, we cover not only core services, like carrier routing, NP and FMU, but also sophisticated cloud services, e.g. for call centers and unified communications as a service (CCaS and UCaaS as well as workstream collaboration. Our Innovation Department keeps our software development and thus the products of our customers on the cutting edge of communications technology. We empower BT, Deutsche Telekom, DNA, Hi3G, izzi, KCOM, Liberty Global, Proximus, TalkTalk, Teliasonera, Virgin Media, Videocon, VodafoneZiggo, among many others. In addition to our own direct sales and service primarily in Europe, we also partner with Nokia Networks which offers our products and services worldwide. Together with our customers and partner Nokia, we at ECT enjoy meeting challenges and creating opportunities.Founded in 1998, ECT is an unlisted German public company with its headquarters in Munich, Germany and wholly owned sales and service subsidiaries in England, The Netherlands and the USA.For more information on this press release, please contact: communications@ect-telecoms.deEuropean Computer Telecoms AGWestendstrasse, 16080339MunichBavariaGermanyAdam McIlroyMarketing AssistantMarketing Departmentemail: adam.mcilroy@ect-telecoms.denumber: 0172 2302847 Hematology Analyzers and Reagents Market: Latest Technological Innovation by Top Leading Player- Horiba, Roche Holding AG, Beckman Coulter, Abbott Laboratories, Abaxis Inc, Siemens, Sysmex Corporation https://www.qurateresearch.com/report/sample/HnM/QBI-CMR-HnM-57926 https://www.qurateresearch.com/report/enquiry/HnM/QBI-CMR-HnM-57926 https://www.qurateresearch.com/report/buy/HnM/QBI-CMR-HnM-57926/ https://www.qurateresearch.com/ Industry Outlook and Trend AnalysisThe Hematology Analyzers and Reagents Market is predicted to garner lucrative market share by 2025, while registering itself at a significant compound annual growth rate (CAGR) during the forecast period. Hematology includes the science or investigation of blood cells and coagulation. Blood being the main liquid that streams all through the human body, analyzing the blood test is basic for location of normal physiological signs, for example, infections, anemia, autoimmune disorders, diabetes and cancer. The analysis of blood or testing likewise exposes genetic data, organ deficiencies, viruses, and so forth. Hematology analyzers are widely accessible for examination of blood and blood related issues can take type of basic handheld photo-optical devices, sophisticated diagnostic point-of-care instruments and very automated or complex research facility analyzer.Get Free Sample Copy of This Report@Competitive InsightsThe leading players in the market are Horiba, Roche Holding AG, Beckman Coulter, Abbott Laboratories, Abaxis Inc, Siemens and Sysmex Corporation. The major players in the market are profiled in detail in view of qualities, for example, company portfolio, business strategies, financial overview, recent developments, and share of the overall industry.Drivers and RestraintsAutomated analyzers, handheld photo-optic devices and point-of-care diagnostic analyzers have turned out to be complicated and high-tech alongside easy to use and simple in task, driving the market for hematology analyzer and reagent market. Research centers select hematology analyzers and reagents based on patient populace, service, reliability, accuracy budgetary constraints, precision, current and anticipated scope of laboratory services, etc. Manufacturers has administered and inquired about these necessities keeping in mind the end goal to target particular analyzers to fluctuated number of research facilities and has subsequently conveyed success to hematology analyzers and reagents market. For instance, customary bench top optical hematology analyzers estimated up to 50-60 centimeters long and 10 centimeters in width and was excessively costly while today because of drive towards miniaturization of similar analyzers is 10-15 centimeters in length and 3 centimeters in diameter.Market SegmentationThe Hematology Analyzers and Reagents Market is segmented based on product into Automated Blood Analyzer, Handheld Photo-Optic Devices, Point-Of-Care Diagnostic Analyzer and Consumables. On the basis of end users the market is segmented into Specialized Research Institutes, Hospitals, Specialized Diagnostic Centers and Others.Query Discussion with Analyst@Regional Outlook and Trend AnalysisNorth America is the biggest market for Hematology Analyzer and Reagents because of simple selection of exceptionally propelled research center analyzers. While hematology analyzers and reagent market has seen an enduring increment and can possibly thrive in nations like India, China, Japan, and so on. Developing healthcare facilities, expanding commonness in blood and blood related issues, for example, cancer, developing awareness regarding health among populace, increasing number of profoundly progressed diagnostic clinics and several factors add to the development hematology analyzer and reagents market in developing countries.The Hematology Analyzers and Reagents Market is segmented by regions as follows-By RegionNorth AmericaU.S.CanadaMexicoEuropeGermanyUKFranceRussiaItalyRest of EuropeAsia-PacificChinaJapanSouth KoreaIndiaSoutheast AsiaRest of Asia-PacificSouth AmericaBrazilArgentinaColumbiaRest of South AmericaMiddle East and AfricaSaudi ArabiaUAEEgyptNigeriaSouth AfricaRest of MEAPurchase Full Research Report@Some of the key questions answered by the report are:What was the market size in 2014 and forecast from 2015 to 2025?What will be the industry market growth from 2015 to 2025?What are the major drivers, restraints, opportunities, challenges, and industry trends and their impact on the market forecast?What are the major segments leading the market growth and why?Which are the leading players in the market and what are the major strategies adopted by them to sustain the market competition?About Us:Qurate Business Intelligence delivers unique market research solutions to its customers and help them to get equipped with refined information and market insights derived from reports. We are committed to providing best business services and easy processes to get the same. Qurate Business Intelligence considers themselves as strategic partners of their customers and always shows the keen level of interest to deliver quality.Contact Us:Nehal ChinoyRunwal Platinum,Ramnagar Colony, Bavdhan,Pune, Maharashtra, India-411021IN +919881074592info@qurateresearch.com Immune Anti-Inhibitor Market Perceive Rapid Growth By Leading Key Players - Shire Plc, Baxter International, Inc, F. Hoffmann La Roche Ltd., Novo Nordisk A/S, Immune Anti-Inhibitor https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/1519 https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-pdf/1519 Government organizations and agencies are engaged in providing support to patients suffering from haemophilia with inhibitors by increasing the awareness of the disease. For instance, the National Haemophilia Foundation (NHF) Inhibitor Education Summits help in spreading awareness and information about the disease condition. Moreover, the Haemophilia Federation of Americas Helping Hands Program offers financial assistance to financially unstable population for attending national and state bleeding disorder educational meetings; travel for necessary medical procedures, surgeries and second opinions; and tutoring or education-related expenses.Request Sample Copy of Research Report @Researchers are working on analyzing the risks associated with use of replacement factors, as in which replacement factors are more prone to facilitate development of antibodies. For instance, World Federation of Haemophilia (WFH) announced results from study published in journal Blood in 2014, which demonstrated higher incidence of inhibitor development after treatment with Kogenate FS/Bayer/Helixate NexGen replacement factor. The World Federation of Haemophilia has requested the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and the European Medicine Agency (EMA) to examine the data. Such studies are expected to reduce the instances of haemophilia with antibodies.According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2016, an estimated 1 in 5 people with haemophilia A and about 3 in 100 people with haemophilia B develop inhibitors (antibodies). Moreover, patients suffering from Von Willebrand Disease (VWD) type 3 are also at a risk of developing inhibitors. According to National Haemophilia Foundation (NHF), haemophilia A occurs in 1 in 5,000 people and is four times as common as haemophilia B, which supports growth of the immune anti-inhibitors market. Ongoing research and development of different therapies for haemophilia with inhibitors are expected to boost growth of the global immune anti-inhibitor market.For instance, Roche is working on monoclonal antibodies for treatment of haemophilia with inhibitors. In June 2017, Roches emicizumab (Hemlibra) showed positive results in Phase III studies in haemophilia A with inhibitors. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved Emicizumab (Hemlibra) once weekly subcutaneous therapy for haemophilia A with inhibitors in September 2017. Emicizumab is a monoclonal antibody designed to facilitate blood clotting process by combining factors IXa and X. Moreover, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is examining the etiology of the haemophilia with inhibitors, which could help in development of novel therapies to boost growth of the immune anti-inhibitor market.Pipeline for haemophilia with inhibitors is also promising as few of the manufacturers are working on novel therapies for the condition. One such organization Catalyst Biosciences has a Factor VIIa marzeptacog alfa (activated) in the clinical trials for haemophilia A or B with inhibitors. Moreover, Bioverativ Inc., a Sanofi S. A.'s subsidiary has FVIIIa mimetic bispecific antibody under studies for haemophilia A with inhibitors. Multiple products are pipeline which are expected to receive approval.Download PDF Brochure of Research Report @Immune system of haemophilia patients produces antibodies called as inhibitors, which acts against the administered therapy. Haemophilia patients are administered either plasma-derived or recombinant replacement blood factor concentrates as medication therapy, which help in blood clotting. However, the inhibitors falsely target replacement factor concentrates as a foreign substance. These antibodies are developed after the patient has been administered with blood factor FVIII concentrate. Inhibitors act after 10 to 20 days of first exposure to factor replacement therapy. Most of these inhibitors remain in the blood for short time and disappear without treatment. However, more persistent inhibitors is a serious adverse event with respect to treatment of Haemophilia A. Commercially available anti-inhibitor coagulant complex includes FEIBA and FEIBA VH Immuno.Key players operating in global immune anti-inhibitor market include Shire Plc, Baxter International, Inc, F. Hoffmann La Roche Ltd., Novo Nordisk A/S, and CSL Behring.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 Medical Carts Market Is Booming Worldwide -Challenges and Opportunities 2019 to 2024 | by Key Players: Medical Carts Market 2019 AFC Industries, Ergotron, Inc, ITD GmbH, Enovate Medical, JACO Inc. Advantech Co., Ltd Medical Carts Market https://www.worldwidemarketreports.com/sample/261313 https://www.worldwidemarketreports.com/quiry/261313 https://www.worldwidemarketreports.com/discount/261313 Worldwide Market Reports offers 2019 Depth Insights report on Global Medical Carts market that evaluates industry growth trends, through historical data and estimates future prospects based on comprehensive research. The report also identifies the factors driving this market, various restraints and opportunities impacting it along with the adoption trends for the period 2019-2024.Medical cart/trolley is a mobile equipment, which consists of a set of shelves, trays, compartments, and drawers for hospital use and medical settings. It carries, dispense, and transport emergency drugs, medicines, medical devices, and medical instruments. Carts are a crucial aspect of medical aid as it provides storing, recording, and dispensing drugs, supplies, and patient information along with patient care. Many carts are designed to supply various surgical and emergency needs depending on the operating room and other medical settings.Get sample PDF of Medical Carts Market Research Report 2019 @The Medical Carts market research report displays the latest industry insights with future trends and analysis of the products and services, enabling you to deeply penetrate the market with high profitability. It also makes you aware of the leading competitors influencing the Medical Carts market along with the key factors to help you sustain your products or services with better forecast of demand and growth opportunities.Scope of the Report:Hospitals are the largest end users of medical carts. Availability of technologically advanced and mobile medical workstations is driving their adoption. These advancements include adjustable, secure, and efficient systems for medication delivery.North America accounted for the largest revenue share in 2016 and is anticipated to register an exponential CAGR in the coming years. Presence of streamlined healthcare operations - from hospital admissions to reimbursements - and availability of integrated healthcare IT systems to maintain EHR are some of the factors contributing to the region's dominance in the market for medical carts.Medical device manufacturers in this region are focusing on developing advanced medical carts on wheels to meet customer demand. For this, companies are changing their product portfolio to include new technologically advanced products such as clinical workstations with batteries, security drawers, and automated dispensing systems.Asia Pacific is expected to witness lucrative growth as manufacturers in this region are focusing on developing low-cost devices with higher efficiency. In addition, global players are investing in local companies owing to low costs of labor and raw materials.The worldwide market for Medical Carts is expected to grow at a CAGR of roughly xx% over the next five years, will reach xx million US$ in 2024, from xx million US$ in 2019By Top manufacturers/players:AFC Industries, Ergotron, Inc, ITD GmbH, Enovate Medical, JACO Inc. Advantech Co., Ltd, Harloff Manufacturing Co., Medline Industries Inc. Hergo Ergonomic Support Systems, Inc., Performance HealthMarket Segment by Type, coversAnesthesia CartsEmergency CartsProcedure CartsOthersMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided intoHospitalsAmbulatory Surgical CentersPhysician Offices or ClinicsOthersGet Discount@Market Segment by Regions, regional analysis covers:North 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)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa)If you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you required.The Medical Carts research report completely covers the vital statistics of the capacity, production, value, cost/profit, supply/demand import/export, further divided by company and country, and by application/type for best possible updated data representation in the figures, tables, pie chart, and graphs. The statistical analysis, the report depicts the global total market of Medical Carts Industry including capacity, production, production value, cost/profit, supply/demand import/export. The total market is further divided by company, by country, and by application/type for the competitive landscape analysis.Key Reasons to Purchase: To gain insightful analyses of the Medical Carts market and have comprehensive understanding of the global market and its commercial landscape. Assess the production processes, major issues, and solutions to mitigate the development risk. To understand the most affecting driving and restraining forces in the market and its impact in the global Medical Carts market. Learn about the market strategies that are being adopted by leading respective organizations. To understand the future outlook and prospects for the Medical Carts market. Besides the standard structure reports, we also provide custom research according to specific requirements.Medical Carts Market Research Report 2019 Inquire Before Buy@About Us:Worldwide Market Reports is your one-stop repository of detailed and in-depth market research reports compiled by an extensive list of publishers from across the globe. We offer reports across virtually all domains and an exhaustive list of sub-domains under the sun. The in-depth market analysis by some of the most vastly experienced analysts provide our diverse range of clients from across all industries with vital decision making insights to plan and align their market strategies in line with current market trends. Worldwide Market Researchs well-researched inputs that encompass domains ranging from IT to healthcare enable our prized clients to capitalize upon key growth opportunities and shield against credible threats prevalent in the market in the current scenario and those expected in the near future.Mr. ShahWorldwide Market ReportsTel: +1 415 871 0703Email: sales@worldwidemarketreports.com Digital Logistics Market Analysis by key Players Advantech Corportion, Digilogistics, Hexaware Technologies, IBM Corporation, JDA Software Oracle, Samsung Electronics Co, SAP AG, Tech Mahindra, UTI Worldwide Inc https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1462810/?utm_source=openpr.com&utm_medium=RV https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/1462810/?utm_source=openpr.com&utm_medium=RV Digital Logistics Market Research Report is a professional and in-depth study on the current state of the global industry. The report provides a basic overview of the industry including definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure. The Digital Logistics Market analysis is provided for the international market including development history, competitive landscape analysis, and major regions development statusRequest a sample of this premium report at:Logistics is the most important activity among the components of the business and Supply Chain Management (SCM) system. The dynamic logistics environment and significant need of digital technologies is defining new era for managing logistics. Developments in the communication technologies have made the world a closer space where the speed and accuracy of the operations are the key factors for sustainability. Speedy transactions, flexibility of operations, scalability of resources and business transparency are the need of current logistics environment. Digital logistics market has provided various opportunities to solution providers in transforming traditional logistics strategies to well synchronized, efficient and effective model for managing the movement of goods.Digital systems offer a life time management of assets (materials, vehicles, labor etc.) and also enable users to find out the real-time location, availability and movement of assets. Users and suppliers are able to share information about products and prices through web portals and thus able to manage the resources optimally. Transportation management is the one of the major functions of these logistics which minimizes transit cost and maximizes service delivery to the customers. The other important function constitutes of warehouse management that holds the key for every supply chain wherein the entire focus is towards movement and storage of materials within the warehouse. Digital logistics market systems are being used to create visibility within warehouse and associated processes such as order processing, financial transactions, shipping, dispatch and picking. Logistics information helps in identifying the crucial bottlenecks and hence facilitates in critical decision making.Technological advancements in the past few decades have inevitably led to the potential growth of the industry across the globe. The increasing customer expectation, along with measures to control the logistics cost is playing a vital role in shaping the future of the digital logistics market. The digital logistics market is growing at a constant pace. Since various organizations are gradually adopting these solutions, while innovation and availability of new technologies are generating strong traction across all the emerging venues, owing to the growing need of connectivity on a real-time basis. Furthermore, the technology is expected to bring in integration capabilities of analytical software tools with the existing systems; and such applications will further enhance the growth of revenues, while ensuring customer privacy and assets security.In 2018, the global Digital Logistics market size was xx million US$ and it is expected to reach xx million US$ by the end of 2025, with a CAGR of 9.0% during 2019-2025.This report focuses on the global Digital Logistics status, future forecast, growth opportunity, key market and key players. The study objectives are to present the Digital Logistics development in United States, Europe and China.Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report at:key playersAdvantech Corportion, Digilogistics, Hexaware Technologies, IBM Corporation, JDA SoftwareOracle, Samsung Electronics Co, SAP AG, Tech Mahindra, UTI Worldwide IncMarket segment by Type, the product can be split intoConsulting servicesSystem integration servicesOther servicesMarket segment by Application, split intoWarehouse managementLabor managementTransportation managementTable of Contents1 Report Overview1.1 Study Scope1.2 Key Market Segments1.3 Players Covered1.4 Market Analysis by Type1.4.1 Global Digital Logistics Market Size Growth Rate by Type (2014-2025)1.4.2 Consulting services1.4.3 System integration services1.4.4 Other services1.5 Market by Application1.5.1 Global Digital Logistics Market Share by Application (2014-2025)1.5.2 Warehouse management1.5.3 Labor management1.5.4 Transportation management1.6 Study Objectives1.7 Years Considered2 Global Growth Trends2.1 Digital Logistics Market Size2.2 Digital Logistics Growth Trends by Regions2.2.1 Digital Logistics Market Size by Regions (2014-2025)2.2.2 Digital Logistics Market Share by Regions (2014-2019)2.3 Industry Trends2.3.1 Market Top Trends2.3.2 Market Drivers2.3.3 Market OpportunitiesAbout 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.com Retinal Biologics Market will Exhibit a Steady CAGR 11.1% by 2028 | Spark Therapeutics, Inc., F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., AbbVie Inc., Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc. and Amgen Inc. www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-8663 www.futuremarketinsights.com/askus/rep-gb-8663 https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/retinal-biologics-market http://keepfacts.com/ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ Retinal biologics market value surpassed US$ 14.6 billion in 2018 and projected to grow at 10.7% y-o-y in 2019, as per a new FMI study. The projected growth of the market can be attributed to,Increasing prevalence of diabetic eye diseases and age-related macular degeneration (AMD)Significant R&D investments engaged in developing biologics for infectious and non-infectious retinal diseasesGrowing application of specific biologic molecules as a promising drug targetDevelopment of gene therapy as retinal biologics in the wake of large number of monogenic retinal disordersHigher specificity of retinal biologics as compared to other traditional therapies has escalated R&D efforts in the retinal drug delivery field. Rising burden of diseases as well as treatment on the back of ageing population and spread of diabetes epidemic have increased efforts in finding the cure of untreatable diseases. Greater strides to develop long-acting therapeutics in a bid to reduce disease burden is set to augur well for the retinal biologics market and generation of US$ 16.2 billion market value is projected in 2019, says FMI report.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Promising Treatment of VEGF-A Antagonist Drug Translates to Hefty Revenue GenerationThe FMI study estimates that adoption of VEGF-A antagonist class of drugs remains higher as compared to TNF-? inhibitor. In 2018, VEGF-A antagonist drugs witnessed significant penetration while accounting for a hefty 93% revenues of the retinal biologics market. Significant advances in developing biologics for VEGF-A antagonist therapy and their delivery to posterior ocular tissues are underway.Ubiquitous acceptance of VEGF-A antagonist therapy has led manufacturers to invest in the development of retinal biologics in a similar area. For instance, Eylea by Regeneron and Lucentis by Roche are VEGF-A antagonist drugs available in the market.The study finds that despite lower revenues, penetration of TNF-? inhibitor drugs is likely to increase at a rapid pace in the coming years. In 2019, annual revenues of TNF-? inhibitor drug class is expected to grow at an impressive rate of 11.6%.Retinal Biologics Find Prominent Use in Macular Degeneration TreatmentThe study opines that over 35% of the retinal biologics revenues were consolidated in the treatment of macular degeneration. Highest revenue growth of 12.3% is also expected in macular degeneration as compared to other indications where retinal biologics are used in 2019.Macular degeneration (MD) remains the leading cause of vision loss wherein it affects over 10 million Americans, the prevalence is higher than the combined incidences of cataract and glaucoma, as per the American Macular Degeneration Foundation (AMDF). As macular degeneration mainly affect people of age 50 years or more, with the ageing population, the prevalence of MD continues to rise despite improved treatment options.Diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema treatments also significantly include retinal biologics in therapy. FMI shows that collectively both the disorders accounted for over 43% of the retinal biologics market revenues in 2018. Annual revenue growth in these two disorders is estimated to remain above 10% in 2019. Increasing incidences of diabetes complications on the back of growing epidemic of diabetes will continue to increase cases of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, thereby generating demand for retinal biologics in the coming years.Retinal Biologics Distribution in Specialty Clinics and Hospitals ProminentManufacturers in the retinal biologics market distribute the products through institutional and retail distribution channels. The FMI study finds that institutional sales will garner higher revenues in the retinal biologics market wherein retinal biologics are distributed in specialty clinics and hospitals. Sales in hospitals accounted for over 35% of the market revenues in 2018.The study estimates that retail sales of retinal biologics will garner similar revenues as that of hospitals and grow at 11.9% in 2019. Retail distribution occurs through retail pharmacies and mail order pharmacies of which retail pharmacies will register higher revenues as compared to its counterparts in the coming years.Request Methodology of this Report @Penetration in North America Higher, APEJs Attractiveness to IncreaseNorth America continues to hold leading revenues in the retinal biologics market. According to FMI valuation, North America held over 46% of the global retinal biologics market revenues in 2018. Revenues in North America are expected to grow at 10.4% y-o-y in 2019 on the back of increasing prevalence of retinal disorders, steady growth of the healthcare infrastructure and favorable reimbursement scenario.Europe garnered nearly one-fourth revenues in the retinal biologics market, wherein a bulk of demand penetration was observed in Western European countries such as Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain and others. The attractiveness of the APEJ retinal biologics market is expected to rise at the rate of 11% in 2019, wherein China and India remain the most lucrative markets.Retinal Biologics Market Reports - Table of Contents1. Executive Summary2. Market Introduction3. Global Economic Outlook4. Market Opportunity Analysis5. Market Dynamics6. Key Inclusion7. North America Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 201820288. Latin America Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 201820289. Western Europe Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 2018202810. Eastern Europe Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 2018202811. Asia Pacific Excluding Japan Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 2018202812. Japan Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 2018202813. Middle East and Africa Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 2018202814. Forecast Factors: Relevance and Impact15. Forecast Assumptions16. Competition Analysis17. Global Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 20182028 by Region18. Global Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 20182028, By Drug Class19. Global Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 20182028, By Indication20. Global Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 20182028, By Distributional Channel21. Global Retinal Biologics Market Analysis 20132017 and Forecast 2018202822. Assumptions and Acronyms Used23. Research MethodologyBrowse Full Report @About UsFuture Market Insights is the premier provider of market intelligence and consulting services, serving clients in over 150 countries. FMI is headquartered in London, the global financial capital, and has delivery centers in the U.S. and India.FMIs research and consulting services help businesses around the globe navigate the challenges in a rapidly evolving marketplace with confidence and clarity. Our customized and syndicated market research reports deliver actionable insights that drive sustainable growth. We continuously track emerging trends and events in a broad range of end industries to ensure our clients prepare for the evolving needs of their consumers.Contact UsU.S. Office616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comBlog:Web: What's driving the Travelers Diarrhea Therapeutics Market trends? Salix Pharmaceuticals, P&G, Johnson & Johnson, Otsuka Pharma, Valneva, Shanghai United Cell, PaxVax, Livzon, Immuron https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1503418?utm_source=openpr.com&utm_medium=ADS https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/1503418?utm_source=openpr.com&utm_medium=ADS https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/global-traveler-s-diarrhea-therapeutics-market-growth-2019-2024?utm_source=openpr.com&utm_medium=ADS https://www.marketstudyreport.com https://www.marketstudyreport.com/blog Market Study Report Has Added A New Report On Travelers Diarrhea Therapeutics 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 Travelers Diarrhea Therapeutics Market In Tandem With Its Competitive Terrain.According to this study, over the next five years the Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics market will register a 7.1% CAGR in terms of revenue, the global market size will reach US$ 890 million by 2024, from US$ 630 million in 2019. In particular, this report presents the global market share (sales and revenue) of key companies in Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics business.Request a sample of this premium report titled Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Market Growth 2019-2024 at:Traveler's diarrhea (TD) is a stomach and intestinal infection. TD is defined as the passage of unformed stool (one or more by some definitions, three or more by others) while traveling. It may be accompanied by abdominal cramps, nausea, fever, and bloating. Occasionally bloody diarrhea may occur. Most travelers recover within four days with little or no treatment. About 10% of people may have symptoms for a week.ETEC is usually responsible for 22-60% of all TD cases in both civilian and military groups or about 7-18 million cases per year. ETEC is also a major cause of diarrheal disease in children living in countries endemic for ETEC, leading to over 400 million diarrheal episodes and approximately 300,000 deaths each year.Travelers diarrhea is the leading cause of illness among international travelers to developing countries. Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) bacteria are the primary cause of this disease. Among the estimated 65 million travelers from industrialized countries to high-risk areas in the developing world, as many as 50% may experience at least one TD episode during their journey.The classification of Travelers Diarrhea Therapeutics includes Immunization, Non-antibiotic Agents, Antibiotics, Anti-Motility Agents, Other. And the proportion of Non-antibiotic Agents in 2017 is about 36%, and And the proportion of Anti-Motility Agents in 2017 is about 20%.This report presents a comprehensive overview, market shares, and growth opportunities of Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics market by product type, application, key manufacturers and key regions and countries.This study considers the Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics value and volume generated from the sales of the following segments:Segmentation by product type:ImmunizationNon-antibiotic AgentsAntibioticsAnti-Motility AgentsOtherSegmentation by application:Adult Traveler's DiarrheaChildren Traveler's DiarrheaThe report also presents the market competition landscape and a corresponding detailed analysis of the major vendor/manufacturers in the market. The key manufacturers covered in this report:Salix PharmaceuticalsP&GJohnson & JohnsonOtsuka PharmaValnevaShanghai United CellPaxVaxLivzonImmuronIn addition, this report discusses the key drivers influencing market growth, opportunities, the challenges and the risks faced by key manufacturers and the market as a whole. It also analyzes key emerging trends and their impact on present and future development.Research objectives:To study and analyze the global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics consumption (value & volume) by key regions/countries, product type and application, history data from 2014 to 2018, and forecast to 2024.To understand the structure of Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics market by identifying its various subsegments.To share detailed information about the key factors influencing the growth of the market (growth potential, opportunities, drivers, industry-specific challenges and risks).To project the consumption of Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics submarkets, with respect to key regions (along with their respective key countries).To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market.To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their growth strategies.Focuses on the key global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the sales volume, value, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis and development plans in next few years.To analyze the Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics with respect to individual growth trends, future prospects, and their contribution to the total market.Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report titled Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Market Growth 2019-2024 at:Table of Contents:2019-2024 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption Market Report1 Scope of the Report1.1 Market Introduction1.2 Research Objectives1.3 Years Considered1.4 Market Research Methodology1.5 Economic Indicators1.6 Currency Considered2 Executive Summary2.1 World Market Overview2.1.1 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption 2014-20242.1.2 Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption CAGR by Region2.2 Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Segment by Type2.2.1 Immunization2.2.2 Non-antibiotic Agents2.2.3 Antibiotics2.2.4 Anti-Motility Agents2.2.5 Other2.3 Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption by Type2.3.1 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption Market Share by Type (2014-2019)2.3.2 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Revenue and Market Share by Type (2014-2019)2.3.3 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Sale Price by Type (2014-2019)2.4 Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Segment by Application2.4.1 Adult Traveler's Diarrhea2.4.2 Children Traveler's Diarrhea2.5 Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption by Application2.5.1 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption Market Share by Application (2014-2019)2.5.2 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Value and Market Share by Application (2014-2019)2.5.3 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Sale Price by Application (2014-2019)3 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics by Players3.1 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Sales Market Share by Players3.1.1 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Sales by Players (2017-2019)3.1.2 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Sales Market Share by Players (2017-2019)3.2 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Revenue Market Share by Players3.2.1 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Revenue by Players (2017-2019)3.2.2 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Revenue Market Share by Players (2017-2019)3.3 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Sale Price by Players3.4 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area, Product Types by Players3.4.1 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Manufacturing Base Distribution and Sales Area by Players3.4.2 Players Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Products Offered3.5 Market Concentration Rate Analysis3.5.1 Competition Landscape Analysis3.5.2 Concentration Ratio (CR3, CR5 and CR10) (2017-2019)3.6 New Products and Potential Entrants3.7 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion4 Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics by Regions4.1 Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics by Regions4.1.1 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption by Regions4.1.2 Global Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Value by Regions4.2 Americas Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption Growth4.3 APAC Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption Growth4.4 Europe Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption Growth4.5 Middle East & Africa Traveler's Diarrhea Therapeutics Consumption GrowthComplete report titled 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: Correction appended Sen. President Peter Courtney didnt expect to pass a bill to lower Oregons legal drinking limit to .05 blood-alcohol content this legislative session, but the Salem leader wanted to start the conversation. On Tuesday, the Senate Judiciary Committee did just that. Courtney, the Salem Democrat, got his wish for an informational hearing on his proposal to lower Oregons legal drunken driving limit from .08 to .05. This bill is about changing the culture we live in, Courtney told the committee. He likened it to the culture shift undertaken in the early 1980s to lower the legal drinking limit from .10 to .08. Courtney introduced the bill in February but started discussing the idea last year. Oregon wouldnt be alone if it lowered the legal blood alcohol content level; Utah already lowered its limit to .05, a proposal pushed by the National Transportation Safety Board and other organizations. Courtney made the case to his colleagues that driving in Oregon is much more perilous in 2019 than it was in 1983 when the state lowered the drinking limit to .08 from .10. Cell phones are ubiquitous now, the states population continues to grow, and cars are equipped with infinite distractions that make driving more difficult. Those issues are compounded by any level of impairment, Courtney said, and drivers have more options to get home safely thanks to ride-hailing companies like Uber and Lyft. The car is a dangerous weapon, he added. According to state figures, 11 people died in 2017 in crashes where drivers had blood alcohol content between .05 and .08, and 67 people were injured. During the past five years, 41 people died under such circumstances, data show. In that same period, 543 were killed in crashes where drivers blew .08 or higher. Lobbyists with the local and national drink and restaurant industry testified to oppose the bill. Jackson Shedelbower, lobbyist with the American Beverage Institute, said drunken driving remained a serious threat and it was comforting lawmakers were considering action, but he characterized Courtneys idea as a distraction that will not address that problem. He said the real problem remained those drinkers who tally an average of .15 blood-alcohol content levels and account for the vast majority of fatal crashes, not someone who enjoys a drink or two over dinner. Shedelbower said Courtneys bill criminalizes perfectly responsible behavior. He said a 120-pound woman would effectively be limited to one drink before hitting the legal limit under Courtneys proposal. The Oregonian/OregonLive conducted a drinking lab earlier this year to illustrate how alcohol affects different people. The test showed what law enforcement officers have known for decades: drinkers generally have no idea what level of impairment they are at nor how many drinks it takes to get to .05 or .08. Oregonians can legally be cited for driving under the influence even if they are below the .08 legal threshold if an officer determines they are impaired. Law enforcement representatives support the bill, but say it needs to be coupled with separate legislation to boost the number of state troopers on highways. The agency has dozens of vacancies. Sen. Cliff Bentz, R-Ontario, asked state officials if moving the legal limit would help shift what he described as the gargantuan number of people who still drive drunk. Courtney and state transportation officials said thats the intended goal, but the culture shift may take a generation to accomplish. Some 41,702 people were injured in crashes in 2017 in Oregon, more than the population of Keizer. Some 755 people were injured in crashes where the driver had a blood alcohol content greater than .05 and 109 died. Sen. Floyd Prozanski, D-Eugene, the committees chair, said hed like to see more data presented about the number of injuries and accidents between .00 and .05. Courtney reiterated his desire to hold a working group during the lawmakers interim session to further study the issue. CORRECTION: A previous version of this story indicated 41,702 people were injured in crashes where drivers had a blood-alcohol content greater than .05. That figure represents all traffic injuries in 2017. That year, 755 people were injured in crashes where the driver had a blood-alcohol content greater than .05 and 109 died. -- Andrew Theen atheen@oregonian.com 503-294-4026 @andrewtheen Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Prosecutors have dropped one murder case against accused serial killer Homer Jackson but added another one in a new indictment filed Tuesday. The indictment comes five months after the Oregon Supreme Court upheld the suppression of an alleged confession by Jackson. Jacksons lawyers and prosecutors also are in multi-day pretrial hearings in Multnomah County Circuit Court, where defense attorneys are challenging Jacksons fingerprint identification from at least one crime scene. A trial is set for Jan. 21. The indictment drops all aggravated murder charges against Jackson in the death of Essie Jackson, 23, killed in March 1983. Instead, it charges Jackson with the 1993 killing of Lawauna Janelle Triplet, 29, whose body was found in North Portland. Four years after his arrest, Jackson, 59, faces charges in the asphyxiation deaths of four African American women who had been sexually assaulted and their bodies dumped in North Portland - three in the 1980s, and Triplets death in 1993. On Tuesday, he pleaded not guilty to the new indictment, charging him with 15 counts of aggravated murder stemming from the four deaths. A 9-year-old boy walking home from school located Triplets body on June 15, 1993, near a pedestrian overpass at North Going Street and Concord Avenue. She was last seen alive walking west on Northeast Alberta Street at about 1:30 a.m. on the day her body was found, police have said. Triplet was a known prostitute in the area, according to police. Triplet died of abdominal injuries and strangulation, according to the state medical examiners office. Dean Smith, one of Jacksons defense lawyers, said he had just received the indictment. Well take a good look at it, he said. The new indictment, issued more than three years after the initial indictment, continues to charge Jackson in the deaths of Tonja Harry, 19, killed in July 1983; Angela Anderson, 14, killed in September 1983; and Latanga Watts, 29, killed in March 1987. Police arrested Jackson in October 2015 and has remained in custody since. Police and prosecutors said similarities in the crimes helped investigators link the deaths. Each of the victims died of asphyxiation by strangulation or a ligature, was sexually assaulted and found with their shirts pushed up over their chests. They all walked the old Union Avenue, now Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, as prostitutes, authorities said. Jacksons original defense lawyer, Conor Huseby, reviewed the police evidence and Jacksons hours-long, video-recorded interview with detectives and argued in 2016 that police had no evidence tying his client to Essie Jacksons case and little linking him to the others. In cases where Jacksons DNA was detected, police also found multiple other male DNA profiles in more incriminating locations at some of the scenes, defense lawyers have argued. Multnomah County prosecutors until now have stood by all the charges, contending Jackson confessed to Andersons killing, made inculpatory statements and admissions when questioned about Essie Jacksons death and that his DNA was found at three of the four crime scenes, according to court documents. Though the new indictment no longer charges Homer Jackson with Essie Jacksons murder, police and prosecutors said they still believe that Homer Jackson is responsible. Prosecutors suffered a setback in the case when in December the state Supreme Court upheld the ruling in 2017 by Multnomah County Circuit Judge Michael A. Greenlick, who threw out statements Jackson made during more than seven hours of questioning over two days by two Portland cold case detectives when he was taken into custody. Greenlick found they were made under the influence of fear produced by threats (and promises of leniency). The states highest court found that the two veteran Portland police detectives methods and inducements may have persuaded defendant to tell the detectives what they wanted to hear, whether or not that was the truth. The states high court said it considered the totality of circumstances, including Jacksons diagnosed schizophrenia, his significant problems with memory, that he wasnt allowed to call his family until Portland police cold case Det. James Lawrence told Jackson that he felt "we are working together on this, and that Jackson had provided incorrect details about some of the killings. The new indictment charges Jackson with three counts of aggravated murder in connection with each of the deaths of Harry, Anderson and Watts, and six counts of aggravated murder in the death of Triplet. It alleges Jackson killed Harry, Anderson and Watts in the course of committing and attempting to conceal the crimes of first-degree sexual abuse against each woman. The six aggravated murder counts against Jackson in Triplets death accuse of him killing her in the course of committing and attempting to conceal first-degree sexual abuse and first-degree unlawful sexual penetration. -- 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. SALEM Oregon will require public schools to teach about the Holocaust under a measure sent to the governor. Lawmakers unanimously voted Tuesday to add Holocaust instruction to the school curriculum starting in the 2019-2020 school year. Ten other states require some level of genocide education in schools. A recent poll found that one in five American millennials surveyed were unfamiliar with the Holocaust. Some say that those awareness gaps can have consequences. The Anti-Defamation League reports that anti-Semitic incidents at K-12 schools quadrupled from 2015 to 2017. Rep. Janeene Sollman says the bill is in honor of Holocaust survivor Alter Wiener, who died last year after he was struck by a car. Sollman says Wiener spoke publicly about his three years as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps and hoped that by sharing his painful story over and over, history would not repeat itself. -- The Associated Press Synceire Bivens just wanted the world to know what happened. In late April, a girl at Wilson High School yelled the n-word at a group of black boys, and video of the incident began circulating on Snapchat. The footage started fights, eventually putting the school on lockdown as police heard another brawl may be brewing. Administrators issued a statement, saying the lockout was a precautionary measure made necessary by a potential threat by a student. They didnt say anything about the n-word, Bivens, a sophomore and president of the schools Black Student Union, said. Instead, a lot of parents only learned about it when they read it in The Oregonian. So on Friday, Bivens and at least 100 other students walked out of class and rallied in the cafeteria to demand action. They want administrators to begin forthrightly describing incidents and drop vague statements about precautionary measures and potential threats. The students are also demanding that the school make an effort to hire more staff and faculty of color. Wilson freshman Molly Cogburn-Frary, who is black, said she rarely sees adults roaming the schools halls who look like her. She said the few faculty members of color have been the ones most likely to check in with students when incidents like Aprils surface. She said student leaders are typically left on their own to address issues of race and intolerance at the majority-white school. Wilson is the whitest high school in Portland. Nine percent of Wilson students identify as Latinx. Another 5% are mixed race and 5% are black, according to Portland Public Schools. Were the ones making the effort, Cogburn-Frary said. The students who walked out of class on Friday also want more schoolwide conversations on diversity and racial history throughout the year. Sophomore Isa de Los Santos said Wilson High teachers led in-class conversations at the beginning of the year centered on those subjects. Then, nothing. (At least not until the fights broke out in April.) Freshman Aslan Newson, who is also black, said she wants the school to push for more conversations about race. Newson said her white peers sometimes say things that make her slightly uncomfortable not because the white teens are racist, but because they dont know any better. She wants the 75% of her classmates who rarely, if ever, have to confront racism to know what it looks like. The majority of the class may not experience it. But to every student who does, it matters, Newson said. So on Friday afternoon, Newson, Cogburn-Frary, Bivens and their peers made those demands during a two-hour rally in the cafeteria. They walked out of class at 12:45 p.m. and flooded the commons. Some students made posters and signs as their classmates filled the room. After about 10 minutes, Bivens addressed the room to make his demands. Then, he asked his peers to share their stories. Bivens expected a few students of color to relay their experiences to their mostly white peers for a little more than half an hour. Instead, kids of all stripes, one after the other, spoke to the crowd for more than two hours, Bivens said. Students of color talked about the racism they face every day. Some told stories Bivens had never heard before. White students also spoke, many of them pledging to do better. Administrators in the Portland Public Schools central offices were also listening. In a statement, High School Program Director Elisa Schorr said faculty and staff will organize listening sessions and collaborate with incoming Principal Filip Hristic on a plan to ensure students feel safe at school. The districts school climate team will also participate in efforts to aid Hristic and the Wilson staff. This is ongoing work and will be at the forefront of plans for next year, Schorr wrote. Bivens said Hristic is also meeting with the Black Student Union to listen to their concerns and collaborate on solutions. Its a start, the sophomore said. But he plans to hold administrators both at the central office and on the Wilson High campus to their promises. We want public acknowledgement when things like this happen. We want education, Bivens said. A homeless woman with a troubled history in Portland including felony convictions for arson and rioting during the citys 2017 May Day demonstrations was arrested Monday on suspicion of committing a hate crime. Sarah Pugh, 38, is accused of shoving and shouting racial slurs at another person during an early morning altercation near Southwest Oak Street and Third Avenue, said Lt. Tina Jones, a Portland Police Bureau spokeswoman. Police provided no further details about the incident. Authorities booked Pugh into the Multnomah County jail on charges of second-degree intimidation, a felony hate crime in Oregon, and harassment, records show. Shes also accused of violating the probation order tied to her 2017 convictions. Court and police records cast Pugh as someone who has struggled with addiction and substance abuse for several years. Pugh left her two children with family in Indiana, where she was born and raised, to travel the country, racking up arrests for assault, disorderly conduct and drug-related charges in Arizona, Californian and Tennessee, records show. She arrived in Portland in 2016 and took up residence on the streets, occasionally earning money by cleaning the dumpster of a city restaurant, according to court documents. Portland police have cited Pugh for public intoxication a dozen times since September 2016. Shes also been arrested on suspicion of assault, disorderly conduct, interfering with a peace officer and criminal mischief, court records show. Pugh told police she decided to join the May 1, 2017, demonstrations after she saw a large group of protesters who converged on downtown, according to a probable cause affidavit. As police and protesters clashed, she set a pile of newspaper ablaze in Southwest Morrison Street and Park Avenue. She was later captured on video holding a burning flare next to a growing bonfire at Morrison and Southwest Fourth Avenue. After authorities extinguished the second fire, Pugh mooned police then urinated on the street, court records said. It was my first time at an anarchist riot, Pugh later told police, court records show. A warrant for Pughs suspected probation violation was issued in February 2018. Shes scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday on the new charges. -- 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. In reading Page A3 of The Oregonian on May 18, I was sorely perplexed by an article headlined Oregon sues Sackler family, made wealthy by Oxycontin sales. The story said nothing about the Sackler family but did discuss a man named James Arthur Sickler. There was no mention of Oxycontin in the story. I thought that perhaps the headline writer was to blame. But on the next page, the same article about Sickler appeared, but with an appropriate headline. So I realized that the headline on the previous page may have been correct, but the wrong story got pasted there. These things can happen on a Friday evening in the rush to meet a deadline. The story about the Sacklers showed up in the Sunday paper on Page A10 with a brief editors note saying The article was inadvertently omitted from Saturday editions. Aha! The note did not mention that the Sickler story appeared twice on Saturday. I found this amusing, but it seemed to me that the editors could have made a fuller explanation of what happened. I could not tell whether confusion of the names was a factor in the snafu. A little humor never hurts. Tom Griffith, Portland The door was unlocked. The television was on. Childcare items and a bank card were left inside. But Karissa Fretwell and her young son were nowhere to be found. A family member recounted the chilling state of the missing womans apartment in a conversation with police, apparently spurring an investigation thats left 52-year-old Michael Wolfe behind bars. Wolfe, the father of Fretwells 3-year-old son, was arraigned Tuesday on suspicion of kidnapping and killing the mother and child. Hes being held without bail in the Yamhill County Jail. His next court date is scheduled for June 7. Neither Fretwell nor her son has been found, but authorities believe they have probable cause to charge Wolfe with kidnapping and aggravated murder. New details about the investigation including the discovery of the mother and sons disappearance were made public in court records filed Tuesday. Based on the interviews of Karissas family and friends, I believe the only known person who would benefit from the disappearance or criminal homicide of Karissa and William is Michael, an investigator wrote in a probable cause affidavit filed in Yamhill County Circuit Court. The affidavit details Wolfes movements late May 13 the last day Fretwell and her son were seen and early the next morning. It also indicates Fretwell and Wolfe were together about that time. Wolfe in a later interview with police maintained he didnt have any recent contact with the mother and son. He said he didnt know where they were, according to the affidavit. Wolfe is the biological father of the boy, and court documents show Wolfe had recently taken a paternity test and been ordered to pay more than $900 a month in child support. Wolfe and his wife had threatened to take the boy and get custody of him, a babysitter for the boy told an investigator, according to the affidavit. A Salem police spokesman previously said Wolfes wife was not missing but would not say whether his family members are part of the investigation or whether police have spoken to them. Wolfe is accused of three counts of aggravated murder and two counts of first-degree kidnapping. He was arrested Friday afternoon in Portland. -- Jim Ryan; jryan@oregonian.com; 503-221-8005; @Jimryan015 Jayati Ramakrishnan of The Oregonian/OregonLive staff contributed to this report Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. SALEM Gov. Kate Brown on Tuesday signed a bill into law that lowers the degree requirement for child welfare caseworkers. Under House Bill 2033, Oregon can now hire as caseworkers people who hold associates degrees and have completed additional training or additional certification in human services or a field related to human services. State law previously required workers who investigate reports of child abuse and make decisions about whether to remove children from their families to have earned at least a bachelors degree. Brown and leaders at the Department of Human Service originally wanted to eliminate the degree requirement completely. Oregons child welfare program has struggled to hire and retain enough caseworkers, and director Marilyn Jones told lawmakers earlier this year that ending the degree requirement could encourage a more diverse pool of job candidates. But the decisions of some caseworkers have also been called into question in high profile cases in which children were harmed or killed and lawmakers were skeptical of completely removing the degree requirement. In the end, they reached a compromise with the executive branch by retaining a degree requirement but lowering it to an associates degree. 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 The seal of the state of Oregon adorns mugs, t-shirts, key chains and all sorts of doodads and knickknacks that are for sale in gift shops in many corners of the state. Somebody is making money selling all that stuff, and now Oregon lawmakers want a piece of the action. A legislative budget committee is set to vote Thursday on Senate Bill 803, which would prohibit the commercial use of the state seal without a licensing agreement from the Oregon Secretary of State. Companies would have to pay a licensing fee and royalties from the sale of the products. The bill does not specify the amount the state would charge for use of its seal, and a legislative analysis does not contain an estimate of the amount of revenue it would generate. The idea for the licensing program came after Portland-based Pendleton Mills approached the Oregon Secretary of States office for permission to use the seal on a new line of blankets. Technically, the company didnt need permission. Current Oregon law only prohibits use of the seal in a manner that implies official endorsement by the state. Simply putting the seal on a product does not imply such an endorsement, said Amy Alpaugh, an attorney with the Oregon Department of Justice, during earlier testimony on the measure. But the inquiry gave then-Secretary of State Dennis Richardson an idea, said Sen. Bill Hansell, R-Athena, who is one of the bills sponsors. He felt that the state could raise additional revenue without raising taxes by granting a license to those seeking to use the state seal for commercial purposes. Not everyone is on board with the proposal. Sen. Mark Hass, D-Beaverton, voted against the bill in the Senate Committee on Business and General Government. I think we have to be really careful with that state seal, he said. I just think thats kind of the brand of state government. Theres a reason that its special, and if we start loaning it out for commercial opportunities, we do it with some peril. But committee chair Sen. Chuck Riley, D-Hillsboro said that ship has sailed. Clearly, its being used in lots of places, he said. Riley noted that he already owns a tie with the state seal on it. I dont think that having it on my tie implies that Im a product of the state of Oregon, he said. If Senate Bill 803 becomes law, Oregon wouldnt be the only state that licenses the use of its seal. In Washington, the Secretary of State oversees a similar licensing program. But its not exactly a cash cow. We only allow the Legislative Gift Center in the Capitol to use the seal for commercial purposes, said Erich Ebel, a spokesman for Washington Secretary of State Kim Wyman. Ebel noted that there are unauthorized products featuring the Washington state seal available online. When we uncover these violations, we send a cease-and-desist letter to those responsible to inform them of state law, he said. Its unclear whether Senate Bill 803 would stand up to a legal challenge under Oregons broad free speech protections outlined in the state constitution. Our free speech provision does not give a lesser protection to commercial speech, said Alpaugh. Portland online education company OpenSesame said Wednesday it has raised an additional $28 million and expects to hire as many as 70 new employees this year. Founded in 2011, OpenSesame operates a market of online courses for professional training. Customers including Siemens, Caterpillar, Toshiba and Blount International use its service to train employees on everything from installation of TV satellite dishes to bedbug removal. OpenSesame was among a surge of tech startups that emerged in Portland in the aftermath of the Great Recession, capitalizing on newly available internet tools to begin offering online services. Collectively, they helped transition Oregon technology from its historical dependence on electronics manufacturing to the software and internet. OpenSesame doesnt develop its own education courses. Rather, its marketplace operates much like the iTunes music store. Developers post their courses to OpenSesames marketplace and the Portland company takes a share of the revenue, typically about 50 percent, when a customer buys the course. OpenSesame had previously raised $19 million and currently employs 70, the vast majority at its headquarters near Providence Park. The privately held company doesnt disclose financial results but Josh Blank, the companys general manager and co-founder, said it began breaking even on its operations last fall. That gave the company a choice, Blank said: We could grow on one trajectory staying at breakeven or we could put more gasoline in and grow faster. OpenSesame opted for the additional investment in pursuit of faster growth. Chief executive Don Spear, also a co-founder, said the business has advanced as the online marketplace matured and the quality of the courses improved. He said nearly half of businesses professional courses are now online instead of in-person classroom instruction. Wednesdays funding was led by FTV Capital, an investment firm with offices in San Francisco and New York. Its a large investment by Oregon standards. No large, homegrown tech company has emerged from the Silicon Forest in decades but small firms like OpenSesame that target market niches continue to attract millions of dollars from out-of-state investors. In April, for example, a Georgia company called Fleetcor completed its purchase of Beaverton-based Nvoicepay as part of $255 million in acquisitions. And Pearl District startup Cloudability sold to a Bellevue company, Apptio, earlier this month. OpenSesame plans to use Wednesdays capital on marketing and customer service, and to develop tools to make it easier for experts in particular subjects to develop more courses. Some of those new services will be automated, Spear said, while others will match up course developers with graphic artists and others to help build appealing courses. As with iTunes, Amazon and other online retailers, OpenSesame encourages its customers to rate the courses they try. Featuring highly rated courses ensures customers get what theyre looking for and encourages others to develop high-quality courses making the marketplace more appealing. We dont ever have to be the selectors, Spear said. We can use the market to say whats good and not good. -- Mike Rogoway | twitter: @rogoway | 503-294-7699 Gladwin Police officer Eric Killian, who is a school resource officer, is expected to be sworn-in as police chief June 14, after school ends the day before. Killian told the Gladwin City Council members last Monday that he was looking forward to sitting down with each of them and examining changes and making things run smoothly. Interim police chief Tom Huber, who filled-in after former chief Duane Bean retired in March, said the city made a good decision. "He'll do a good job for you," Huber said. Councilmember Roger Gardner sent a message via Gladwin County Sheriff Mike Shea, that he will be there to assist Killian in any way he can. Councilmember Linda Winarski said at the meeting that Killian will be missed as the school resource officer for Gladwin Community Schools. He started that position in August 2018. Winarski said she wishes they could clone Killian. Gladwin City Manager Chris Shannon said he and Gladwin Mayor Dee Jungman conducted interviews the previous week. They were joined by Jeff Gaither, Boyne City chief and former Department of Natural Resources officer, who worked in Gladwin County. Jungman said the panel asked Killian some difficult questions that he thought about and gave good answers. Gladwin Community Schools Superintendent Rick Seebeck said Monday that he and other school administrators are excited for Killian. "We're still going to have a school resource officer," Seebeck said, noting that Killian will help them find one. Killian is staying on for the remainder of the school year and a new officer will start in August. Paducah, KY (42003) Today Cloudy with occasional showers for the afternoon. Thunder possible. High 54F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Showers in the evening, then cloudy overnight. Areas of patchy fog. Low 47F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%. Brazzaville, Congo (PANA) A three-day workshop bringing together Congolese and Burkinabe researchers opened on Monday in Brazzaville to see how plant-based medicines can help solve more health challenges, Congolese public radio reported on Tuesday Kinshasa, DR Congo (PANA) - The awareness campaign against Chikungunya, a viral disease transmitted to humans by an infested mosquito, will be launched in a few health areas in Kinshasa, the capital, and in the province of Central Kongo, in the southwestern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), an official source told PANA here Monday Banjul, Gambia (PANA) - The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) Monday said it had launched an investigation into a shooting incident involving a civilian driver by a soldier stationed around former Gambian President Yahya Jammehs home area of Foni District Tripoli, Libya (PANA) Libyan human rights advocacy, the National Human Rights Committee, has expressed concern about the increasing number of arbitrary detentions, abductions and disappearances of civilians on the basis of their origins, social identities, opinions and political convictions Tunis, Tunisia (PANA) - The president of the Tunisian national anti-corruption institute, Chawki Tabib, said here Monday that Tunisia signed in 2003 the African Union Convention on the prevention and fight against corruption but its non-membership remained an issue with successive governments due to bureaucracy Khartoum, Sudan (PANA) - Sudanese civil society groups have requested the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) to undertake an urgent mission to the country to assess progress in the talks towards the formation of a civilian government and to identify peace spoilers Paris, France (PANA) The forthcoming UNESCO-Africa-China Forum on World Heritage Capacity Building and Cooperation will seek to strengthen collaboration between Africa and China in the preservation of World Heritage, the specialized UN agency said on Tuesday BLOOMINGTON Bloomington has been awarded state grant money to help disabled people make their homes more accessible. The City Council is expected to approve the $100,000 Illinois Housing Development Authority Home Accessibility Program (HAP) grant when it meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall. The council's meeting was moved because of Memorial Day. "So in the fall of 2018, the city applied for a grant to help with home accessibility and mobility rehabilitation, and we got it. We're very, very pleased," said Deputy City Manager Billy Tyus. In addition to traditional rehabilitation, the money can be used to install specialized equipment such as a stair lift and pay for extended warranties to cover future equipment repairs or replacements, said Tyus. "We also have been working with associations and entities that represent disabled communities ... and we're pleased that this is another example of being able to come up with tools and solutions for some of the needs that the disabled community may have," said Tyus. The assistance is limited to people over age 60 with a physical limitation and/or people of any age with a physical or mental impairment, city officials said. The program offers up to $25,000 per property, which can be either an individually owned home or a rental unit, with zero interest, five-year forgivable mortgages, said city grants coordinator Jennifer Toney. At the end of five years, the mortgage becomes a grant and no repayment is required, she added. IHDA requires the city to only accept referrals for the program from local agencies funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services and Illinois Department of Aging. Toney said the city will announce when it is ready to begin receiving referrals locally through PATH (Providing Access To Help), Marcfirst, Peace Meals and Life Center for Independent Living. In other business, the council will consider: Contract terms are similar to those negotiated with about 100 Local 699 members who work for the zoo, public works and parks, recreation and cultural arts departments. Approving Coldwell Banker Commercial Devonshire Realty to exclusively list and market the sale of the city-owned former Mennonite Hospital/Electrolux site and two adjacent parcels owned by Illinois Wesleyan University in the 800 block of North Main Street for future redevelopment. There are no formal development proposals under consideration, but if the properties are sold, CBCDR will receive a fixed commission of $100,000, with the city paying about 73 percent and IWU 27 percent of the amount. "For that omission we're recommending a fine of $750 per terminal for the violations," Tyus said. If approved by the council, the fine will be applied toward Killarney's Irish Pub's two video gambling machines and Lakeside Country Club's five machines, he added. Creating the Downtown Cultural District and setting its boundaries. Contact Maria Nagle at (309) 820-3244. Follow her on Twitter: @Pg_Nagle Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 SHIRLEY A 52-year-old man from Bloomington died Sunday night after being struck by an Amtrak train in the Shirley-Funks Grove area, according to the McLean County coroner. The incident occurred about 8:25 p.m., said Coroner Kathy Yoder. No foul play is suspected. The McLean County sheriff's department is handling the case. Amtrak spokesman Marc Magliari said the train was en route to St. Louis with 166 customers on board. The train was delayed four hours and 12 minutes, he said. Two other trains also were delayed. Train 307, also headed to St. Louis, was delayed for two hours and 50 minutes and train 306 was delayed three hours and 50 minutes, on its way to Chicago, according to Magliari. Contact Lenore Sobota at (309) 820-3240. Follow her on Twitter: @Pg_Sobota 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 A donor who wishes to remain anonymous has given $2,000 each to 12 rural public libraries, hoping that the donor's love of books is passed to a new generation. The donation was made through the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation. The donor wishes to remain anonymous, believing that the attention should go to the libraries, and The Pantagraph agreed to honor the request. But the donor, who grew up in a small town, released the following statement to the newspaper through the community foundation: "Over the past five years or so, I've worked with Illinois Prairie Community Foundation to anonymously donate thousands of dollars to support libraries and literacy generally. I believe in the power of literacy and the importance of libraries. I spent a lot of time in the library when I was younger, and I felt empowered; I could read about anything I wanted to. Access gives everyone a choice and a chance and I would say to everyone, 'make the most of it.'" According to Michele Evans, the foundation's grants and communications director, the libraries receiving $2,000 each are the Deer Creek District Library, Gridley Public Library District, Mackinaw District Public Library, El Paso Public Library, Mt. Hope-Funks Grove Townships Public Library District, H.A. Peine District Library in Minier, Chenoa Public Library District, Carlock Public Library, Allin Township Library in Stanford, Martin Township Public Library in Colfax, Cheney's Grove Township Public Library in Saybrook and Danvers Township Library. "Two thousand dollars for a small township library really can go a long way," Evans said. "Libraries have a special place in communities. They are a gathering place where people can be safe and gain knowledge." "I was astonished and amazed," Deer Creek Library Director Carlene Mathis-Kull said. "The donor requested that they wanted it to be used for books and that's exactly what we're going to do." "It's a very large gift for us," Mathis-Kull said. The Deer Creek District Library's total operating budget is $96,000. The donor has a donor-advised fund with the foundation, Evans said. Donor-advised funds give donors the right to say which non-profits the donors want to support. In the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2018, $1,110,443 in donor-advised funds were distributed through the foundation, Evans said. The foundation also awards competitive grants and, several weeks ago, awarded $140,613 in grants to 77 programs in McLean, DeWitt, Livingston and Logan counties. Contact Paul Swiech at (309) 820-3275. Follow him on Twitter: @pg_swiech 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. BLOOMINGTON Charges filed in 2018 were dismissed Friday against a 26-year-old Normal man after he pleaded guilty to a new charge involving a 2014 offense, ending his long-running legal challenge of the constitutionality of the states sex offender registration rules. Mark Minnis was 16 when he engaged in sexual activity with a 14-year-old classmate. He served 12 months on probation, and registered as a sex offender until 2018 when the state did not object to his request to end reporting requirements. About two weeks later, police arrested Minnis again, this time accusing him of failing to list a Facebook page on his registration form. Minnis said he believed he had met the requirement by listing the email address associated with the social media page. Minnis accepted a plea offer Friday that dismisses the 2018 felony case; instead, he pleaded guilty to filing a false police report that omitted the social media information. The state also dismissed one count of the 2014 case. Minnis was placed on Second Chance probation, a program that allows defendants to have a conviction removed from their record if they complete two years of probation. Minnis must abstain from drugs and alcohol and complete 30 hours of community service. Minnis case became part of a national legal debate on the free speech rights of sex offenders. In June 2017, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a North Carolina law barring sex offenders from social media websites that allow minors to have accounts. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to review the Minnis case. In July 2015, a McLean County judge dismissed the charge against Minnis, ruling Illinois' law was unconstitutional in its broad requirements related to social media. The Illinois Supreme Court reversed that ruling in 2016 and sent the case back to McLean County. At a hearing in March seeking dismissal of charges accusing him of failure to update information about his social media page, Minnis described the impact the criminal charges had on his life. After high school, Minnis attended culinary school and found work at several local restaurants. It was hard to keep jobs, said Minnis, after news coverage of his arrest on the registration charge. Neighbors also learned he was a sex offender, said Minnis. Defense lawyer Stephanie Wong argued at the time the states decision to refile the 2014 charge against Minnis in June 2018 and its continued prosecution of the second case was vindictive, capricious and arbitrary. In support of her argument, Wong pointed to Minnis June 2018 successful petition to end his registration. The law permitting such petitions is designed to allow juveniles who complete probation to be removed from the sex offender list two years after their probation ends. Minnis petition was granted without objection from the state, said Wong. Assistant States Attorney Ashley Scarborough argued the state refiled the charges after the decision by the Illinois Supreme Court. Minnis had the option of seeking removal from the list and ending his reporting requirements after 2013. The prosecutor denied Wongs allegation that the states refiling came in response to Minnis removal from the sex offender list. Contact Edith Brady-Lunny at (309) 820-3276. Follow her on Twitter: @pg_blunny 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. BLOOMINGTON The search continues for a man who escaped in handcuffs while being arrested by officers from the Illinois Department of Corrections earlier this week. James Snow, 29, escaped late Tuesday morning from officers in the area of Cardinal Ridge Trailer Park on Bloomingtons south side. Officers from the Bloomington Police Department joined the search, but as of Wednesday evening, Snow remained at large. Snow, 29, is described as being 6 feet tall and weighing 180 pounds. He has brown hair and was wearing a white shirt, gray pants and no shoes when he escaped. Bloomington police confirmed they assisted with the search and directed questions to the IDOC. An IDOC spokeswoman did not return messages seeking comment on Wednesday. Snow was released from prison on April 10 and there was an active warrant for his arrest, but the details of why IDOC was arresting him Tuesday morning and how he got away were not released. Snow has a previous felony conviction for escape in McLean County. Prosecutors said he escaped from custody while at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center in Normal, where he was being treated for ingesting an unknown substance during his arrest. He also has McLean County convictions for residential burglary, theft and drug charges. Court documents indicate his mother, Tammy, lives in the Cardinal Ridge Trailer Park area. He is the son of Jamie Snow, a former Bloomington resident who was convicted in the 1991 murder of a gas station attendant during an armed robbery at the Clark Super 100 Station, 802 E. Empire St., Bloomington. Police are asking that if anyone sees Snow, to immediately call 911. Photos: 2018-19 McLean County jail mugshots Contact Kevin Barlow at (309) 820-3238. Follow him on Twitter: @pg_barlow 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. NORMAL Illinois State University will host two speakers in June who will address family issues, including teen pregnancy and sibling relationships. Anita Barbee, professor at the Kent School of Social Work of the University of Louisville, will present The Role of Relationship Education in Teen Pregnancy Prevention Among High-Risk Youth at 11 a.m. June 5 in Schroeder Hall, room 103. Sarah Killoren will give a talk titled Sibling Relationships and Mexican-origin Youths Development at 2 p.m. June 10 at Schroeder Hall, room 104. The free series is sponsored by the Interdisciplinary Initiative and the ISU Interdisciplinary Research Group on Personal Relationships This speaker series is sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences Interdisciplinary Initiative and the ISU Interdisciplinary Research Group on Personal Relationships, with assistance from Illinois State Universitys Department of Psychology, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, School of Communication, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, and from the College of Applied Science and Technology. For special accommodations or questions, contact Susan Sprecher at sprecher@ilstu.edu. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 BLOOMINGTON A program that provides ex-offenders a support network for finding a job and a place to live needs a new place to continue its work. Jobs Partnership lost its office space and storage in the former Bloomington Junior High, 510 E. Washington St., in May after owners began extensive remodeling work for a senior living complex. Temporary quarters at Heartland Church, 1811 N. Linden St., Normal, provide adequate meeting space but lacks the room needed for a clothing room and the food pantry participants have come to reply on, said Michelle Cook, Jobs Partnership's coordinator. "Right now we have everything in storage because we don't have a central location," said Cook. The food pantry provided food for people in the program and others in the community who needed help, said Cook. "We were set up to help 100 to 200 people a week with food," said Cook. Twenty volunteers from the church helped pack and move things out of the former school building. Jobs Partnership opened in 2010 as a program of the Joy Care Center, a Twin Cities program to assist former offenders. Joy Care partnered with Heartland Church to provide classes, mentors and a support system for people starting over after a criminal conviction. Since its opening, the partnership has served more than 1,500 individuals, with 1,267 completing the program and their parole or probation requirements, according to Jobs Partnership data. Twenty-five participants currently attend classes. Contact Edith Brady-Lunny at (309) 820-3276. Follow her on Twitter: @pg_blunny Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 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 Legislation that would overhaul Illinois abortion statute was fiercely debated for the first time by a panel of lawmakers Sunday, with six days to go before the scheduled end of session. The Reproductive Health Act, which backers and detractors agree would be the most liberal reproductive health care measure in the country, passed out of committee by a party line vote. It received no Republican support. To advance the initiative, Chicago Democratic Rep. Kelly Cassidy, the bills sponsor, abandoned her originally-filed legislation and amended another one in what is often referred to under the dome as gut and replace. The new measure is Senate Bill 25. It was a move that caught some conservative House legislators off guard. Rep. Tom Demmer, a Republican from Dixon, expressed his frustration the initiative was resurrected without enough time for his colleagues or constituents to prepare for the committee hearing. People who had been watching this, tracking the process of it, people who cared deeply about it on either side didnt know the bill was going to come back today, he said. At 6:08 that posting was made for a meeting that, not exaggerating here, was scheduled to begin at 7:08, exactly one hour after the posting the absolute minimum amount of time that could be offered for a bill to be considered by a committee of this house. Another, Republican Rep. Terri Bryant, from Murphysboro, drove to Springfield from a Memorial Day event in her district to be present for the committee hearing. The way the act is being legislated is a miscarriage of justice, she said. Im not trying to be dramatic about this, but you know this is an issue Im very passionate about. Cassidys originally-filed measure, House Bill 2495, was stuck in legislative limbo since early March with the other reproductive health care and abortion-related bills introduced this session. Recent calls for action on the act were spurred by laws passed in states nationwide, including Alabama, Georgia, Missouri and Ohio, that restrict access to abortion. Some of those states hope to get those statutes before the U.S. Supreme Court in an effort to challenge the 1973 case Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion across the country. Quite frankly, as we watch this parade of horribles in state after state after state, its nice to be able to do something about it, Cassidy said. It feels good to be able to have the opportunity to fight back and push back to defend these rights with as much force and vigor as our opponents in doing in other states and to make very clear who we are in Illinois. This is a very clear statement of that. Opponents, such as Rep. Avery Bourne, a Republican from Raymond, pointed to language in a law signed by former Gov. Bruce Rauner that solidified abortion would remain legal in Illinois should Roe v. Wade be overturned. She asked if the Reproductive Health Act would be necessary taking that into account. If the case was overturned, Cassidy responded, the harm would be for the possibility of lower courts to allow for currently-enjoined laws to be enforced. For example, there is a statute on the books that places criminal penalties on doctors who perform abortions that would be repealed under the proposed measure. The language of the act Cassidy filed Sunday combines the bill she originally filed with two amendments she proposed at the end of March, as well as a new amendment. According to the originally-filed version of the legislation, reproductive health would be preserved as a fundamental right. This Act sets forth the fundamental rights of individuals to make autonomous decisions about ones own reproductive health, including the fundamental right to use or refuse reproductive health care, the act reads. The measure blocks Illinois from intruding in a womans decision to carry a pregnancy to term, opt for an abortion procedure or any other reproductive health care choice and, should she feel this right was violated, it creates an avenue for her to bring a lawsuit. The legislation additionally bars local governmental bodies from impairing access to contraception or procedures such as abortion, but allows them to pass rules strengthening reproductive health care. The bill requires health care professionals to file a report of each abortion they perform with the Department of Public Health, but does not specify the type of information to be collected and reported as current statute mandates. It also exempts these documents from Freedom of Information requests. Emily Werth, an attorney with the Illinois chapter of the American Civil Liberty Union, said at the end of March the amendments filed to Cassidys original legislation and included in the act filed Sunday were in response to concerns. One, she said, makes explicitly clear a health care provider who has a moral, ethical or religious objection to abortions do not have to participate in performing one. The Reproductive Health Act would repeal several statutes in existing law that refuse to take part in such procedures, leaving one law, the Health Care Right of Conscience Act in place. The Thomas More Society, a conservative law firm based in Chicago, released a legal analysis when the legislation was first introduced. In it, the group argues a case could be made that a legal challenge could render that act toothless because a medical provider would be hindering a womans newly-created fundamental right to reproductive health care. This amendment, Werth said, addresses that concern. The newly-filed act also clarifies a contentious point among opponents that the Reproductive Health Act requires private insurance companies regulated by the state to cover abortion procedures if they also cover pregnancy-related benefits. It now allows for cost-sharing provisions, such as copayments, so long as they do not exceed those that apply to pregnancy-related coverage. Finally, Werth said, the bill clarifies that physician assistants and advanced practice registered nurses can only provide abortion care that is otherwise consistent with what is within their scope of practice and their professional licensing act. New language introduced by Cassidy on Sunday redefines viability. The opponents to the bill have really focused, unfortunately, on later abortion, which is rare but they have focused in on that and have been saying some things that are frankly, at best misleading and at worst completely untrue about the legislation, said Brigid Leahy, senior director for public policy for Planned Parenthood of Illinois. We have added in clarifying language that basically clarifies what is happening right now in Illinois, what the standard is right now and what it has been for many, many years. Leahy said when advocates were drafting the legislation and thinking about which legislators would be the best sponsors for it, they were looking for a representative who was passionate and completely committed to the issue but also had the skill set to really carry a bill with this kind of weight. When youre working with colleagues in a state as diverse as the state of Illinois, Rep. Cassidy has a wonderful ability of reaching out to other colleagues who dont necessarily agree with her on everything, she said. Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker has vowed to make Illinois the most progressive state in the nation for access to reproductive health care, seemingly indicating he would sign the bill if it arrived on his desk. Before then, the act would have to be approved by the Senate. In an emailed statement Sunday night, his spokesperson said the governor is a lifelong advocate for a women's right to choose and with recent attacks on access to reproductive health care across the country, the governor applauds the House for taking an important step toward sending him a bill that will protect women's rights in Illinois. The time for recognizing abortion as health care in Illinois is long overdue, Planned Parenthood of Illinois President Jennifer Welch said in a statement Sunday. Were looking forward to the bill moving quickly through committee to a full vote in the General Assembly and off to the Governors desk for his signature. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 (Arlington Heights) Daily Herald The unrelenting wave across the country to legalize the recreational use of marijuana began in 2012 when Colorado and Washington by way of referendum became the first states in the union to grant that liberty. Two years later, Alaska and Oregon followed suit; two years after that, California, Maine, Massachusetts and Nevada joined in. All six by referendum. Two years ago, Vermont became the first state to approve legalization through action by the state legislature without a referendum. Last year, Michigan became the latest state to legalize recreational use of marijuana when voters agreed to it through a referendum. All told, that's 10 states that have embraced that freedom in this decade. A movement toward pot clearly is afoot. Frankly, we don't know if that's a good or a bad thing. And that, it strikes us, is the problem as the General Assembly rushes toward a May 31 deadline to decide whether Illinois should become the 11th state on the list. What's the rush? Take a year, let both sides agree to design an independent study, perhaps with one of our universities, to examine the experience in the early-adopting states. Questions to be addressed would include: auto crash rates, effect on psychosis, labor productivity, other health concerns, effect on underage rates of use, and more. Take a year. If we're going to consider recreational marijuana, let's consider it right. Assign an independent body to develop a report. Publicize the findings. Then take it to the voters for their advice. Chicago Tribune Cases in which parents reject DCFS intervention after the agency receives repeated complaints and hotline calls yet there's no emergency need to remove the children fall into a gray area that Gov. J.B. Pritzker and DCFS need to swiftly address. Should DCFS intervention be voluntary for families on the margin, troubled but not in imminent crisis? Or should parents who have been identified as problematic be forced to accept state services or, if they won't, temporarily lose custody of their children? A Pritzker-commissioned report released from policy center Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago focused on the need to reform intact family services. Caseworkers who deal with high-risk families but can't engage them in services "may simply close the case," the report says. It happens routinely. That's too risky. DCFS needs a specific protocol that accelerates these cases to supervisors or to the court system, where parents can be compelled to participate, to be subjected to home visits, or risk losing custody. The children our state has lost under DCFS radar should serve as an urgent, tragic reminder to Pritzker and to DCFS. The governor owns the agency he inherited, has pledged to make it better and will be judged accordingly. If we can suggest one directive he should give to the agency: DCFS should more dramatically prioritize families that have provoked repeated complaints yet who refuse services. Parents and caretakers who refuse state help after numerous complaints shouldn't fall off DCFS' radar. Those refusals should be glaring, red flags. The (Carbondale) Southern Illinoisan It's a sad state of affairs in our region when homeless shelters are shutting down and service organizations are stretched so thin financially they cannot fulfill their missions. In March, the Williamson County Family Crisis Center, a homeless shelter in Herrin, shut its doors, leaving about 20 people who had been staying there to find another place to stay. And, earlier this year, the United Way of Southern Illinois announced it would have to indefinitely stop making payments to the local programs it had traditionally supported. A common refrain in some political circles states homeless shelters and the like should be privately funded. They say the government shouldn't be involved in such endeavors. It is up to the churches and the private sector to care for the poorest among us. Well, this is exactly what happens when the government isn't involved funding goes by the wayside in the form of a budget impasse and important social service needs go unfunded or forgotten about. And that's not to say the state's two-year-plus impasse is the sole cause of the closing. There are other factors at play. We realize that there's no magic wand to fix these problems immediately. Checks with a bunch of zeroes on the end of them aren't coming magically in the mail anytime soon. And, we also realize the blame doesn't rest solely with the state. We can't offer any solutions. But, this is the reality in today's world. We just wish it didn't have to be this way. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office officially published a series of 85 newly granted patents for Apple Inc. today. In this particular report we cover two granted patents. The first relates to possible future foldable iDevices, while the second patent relates to the iPad's Smart Keyboard Folio. The latter patent still has other ideas that are buried that could one day to come to light. iDevices with a Foldable Display and Cover In August 2018 Patently Apple posted a patent application report titled "Apple invents both Single and Multi-Fold Device Form Factors for Future iDevices." Today Apple was granted a patent for this invention. You could review our 2018 IP report here for more details or review Apple's newly granted patent 10,303,218. Foldable smartphones were the buzz out of Spain's Mobile World Congress event this year with Huawei and Samsung leading the way. Samsung rushed their Galaxy Fold to reviewers before launching it so as to drum up interest for the product and suddenly, it all it all blew up in their face. As far as Huawei's Mate X goes, the trouble with being on the U.S. tech blacklist puts their foldable smartphone into doubt. Apple's granted patent relates to electronic devices having a flexible or bendable region. More specifically, the embodiments are directed to an electronic device having a display layer and a cover layer that are configured to fold or bend along a flexible or bendable region. The flexible cover layer may be formed from a ceramic material (e.g., glass, strengthened glass, sapphire, zirconia) to provide some measure of protection for the flexible display from impact or other potential damaging contact. The flexible cover layer may also provide structural support for the display along both the folded and non-folded regions of the device. As used herein, a cover layer may also be referred to as a cover sheet or simply as a cover. In general, a foldable electronic device can be folded to accommodate a variety of form factors. For example, a foldable electronic device may be used in an unfolded configuration to allow use of an entire display area. Apple's patent FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrated below respectively illustrate a device in open and closed configurations. In Apple's patent FIG. 4A above we're able to see device #400 in a fully folded or closed configuration. In the fully folded or closed configuration, roughly two thirds of the display layer #420 is viewable along the first region #481 and second region #482 of the device. To make this kind of product viable, Apple engineers with experience with materials were put on the project as follows: Christopher Bartlow: Product Design Engineer who came to Apple via Ferrotec where he was a materials scientist. Dale Memering: Product Design Material Engineer Christopher Jones: Chemist who is working with the panel process and optics team to design and develop cutting edge display technologies to support Apples product line. This includes total optimization & integration of display material, optics, and process to deliver superior optical, mechanical, and reliability performances. Smart Keyboard Folio Back in 2012 Patently Apple covered, what I call, a master patent application. This kind of patent application lays out the foundation of a product or product line in the widest possible vision of where Apple could take the technology over time. For instance, in our original 2012 patent report we covered such things as the 'smart connector' and the fabric cover-keyboard combination years before they came to market. It's where the idea of the Smart Keyboard was born. You could review our original report here for more details and patent figures. Apple was first granted a patent for this invention (or at least one portion of the master patent) back in May 2016. Today's second granted patent focuses on the modern Smart Keyboard Folio that we have today. You can read the patent claims of today's granted patent 10,303,215 to confirm it here. The patent covers variable form factors beyond what we have today. Below are just a few of the forward looking concepts that may or may not be viable in the future. One idea shown below adds a a trackpad to the folio while another provides a space above the keyboard so as to allow Apple Pencil users an input space. Still other ideas are buried in this granted patent. About Making Comments on our Site: Patently Apple reserves the right to post, dismiss or edit any comments. Those using abusive language or negative behavior will result in being blacklisted on Disqus. Patna: Motorcycle-borne criminals in Patna on Monday morning shot and killed a man and escaped before police could arrive at the crime-scene. The incident occurred near Kidwaipuri Park barely 500 meters from the Kotwali police station on Buddha Marg. The victim was identified as Ravi Rai of Mandiri area in Patna. As reported, three men on motorcycles accosted Rai as he was returning to his home after his morning walk. Sensing some threat, Rai tried to lose the criminals but was surrounded by them who fired at least three shots hitting him in his head and stomach. He died on the spot. Police have recovered two spent cartridges from the crime scene. Police said the victim had a long criminal history that included murders and robberies and was recently released on bail from the Beur Jail. Patna Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Garima Malik said that an FIR was filed by the victim's family and police were in the process of collecting surveillance video footages from the area to identify the killers of Rai. "The crime appears to be the result of a personal enmity. While in prison, he was reportedly threatened by other gang members who swore to kill him once he was out of the jail," the SSP said. He was a Harrisburg businessman and a person who served on the board of the directors of numerous organizations in central Pennsylvania. Morton Spector died Sunday at the Homeland Center in Harrisburg, one of the numerous groups where he served as a volunteer. He was 89. Spector was born in Williamsport, served in the military and entered the family business, D&H Distributing Company. He later became the firms treasurer and vice president, according to his obituary. Both D&H and the Spector family moved to Harrisburg when the company became a Philco distributor. The company later dropped Philco and signed a deal with RCA for the entire central Pennsylvania territory. RCA would become a major part of D&H over the years as would Whirlpool. Spector and his wife, Alyce, traveled throughout the world with RCA and Whirlpool executives, the obituary said. The company first set up shop in Harrisburg on Cameron Street and later moved to its current location on Seventh Street in 1952. The company plans to move to a larger location in Lower Paxton Township and is one of the largest private companies in Pennsylvania. Spector retired in 1998 from D&H and he and his son, Harry, then co-founded Design House Kitchens & Appliances LLC. In addition to being a business leader, Spector was a leader of numerous nonprofit organizations. Over the years, he served as president or chair of many organizations including Boys & Girls Club of Harrisburg, Crime Stoppers of Dauphin County, Dauphin County Library System, Harrisburg Council of the Jewish National Fund, Harrisburg Public Schools Foundation, Homeland Center, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Home, Pinnacle Health Foundation, Retired Senior Volunteer Program, Salvation Army of Harrisburg, Silver Academy, Silver Academy Foundation, United Jewish Community, United Jewish Federation, and the United Way of the Capital Region, according to his obituary. Community was a part of Spectors life since childhood, according to a 1989 Patriot-News article. My mother and father had both been involved in charities when we lived in Williamsport and I think it became a part of our familys way of life, he told the paper in 1989. Spector had concentrated on working with local organizations and had continued to add to his workload through his inability to say no, the article said. People asked me [to get involved] and I would say, yes,' " he said at the time. I was able to participate and contribute something and evidently they liked it and said, Keep coming and keep doing. Barry Ramper II, president and CEO of Homeland Center, called Spector humble and considerate. Spector was a past chair of the organization and a board member for many years. His leadership skills were outstanding and (he) looked as he did with all organizations to have others that were fully committed to strive to have the mission of the organization met at the highest level possible, Ramper said of Spector. Jennifer Ross, president and CEO of the Jewish Community Center said Spector was a mensch. He was an amazing board member of ours, she said. He was an asset to our entire community both the Jewish Community and the secular community. It is a loss to our entire community that he is gone." Ross said Spector served as a board member of the Jewish Community Center for decades and served each organization with all of his heart. He truly gave 100 percent to everything he did, she said. Allen Geckle, chief executive officer for the Jewish Home of Greater Harrisburg said that Spector served on the organizations board of directors for more than three decades including as president from 1995 to 1997, and noted his energy, commitment and passion for the organization. He was very instrumental in the growth of the home over the years and in the successful preservation of the home several years ago during some financial challenges, he said. Kathy Anderson-Martin, director of resource development at The Salvation Army Harrisburg Capital City Region, called Spector a man of integrity and character. He was a man who loved his family, loved his community, and did everything with 120 percent, she said Tuesday afternoon. Anderson-Martin said Spector served on the Salvation Armys board for many years and was the organizations longest serving board member. For the past eight years, the organization has been planning a new headquarters that is currently being built on 29th Street in Harrisburg. She said Spector wanted to live to see the day when it would be built, but, she says he was thrilled that it was finally under construction. The building is expected to be completed in September. Anderson-Martin said Spector led by example and said he never asked anyone else to do more than what he was willing to do. There are people that talk and there are people that do, she said. Anderson-Martin said one of Spectors good leadership qualities was his ability to recruit other volunteers. One of those volunteers was Kathleen Pavelko, who recently retired as president and CEO of WITF. Pavelko knew Spector because he was a donor to WITF, and Spector later recruited her to be on the Salvation Armys advisory board. She said she was grateful to Spector for recruiting her to be on the advisory board. She said that Spector was very passionate and always looked for the next achievable goal and to the future. Pavelko also remembers Spector taking part in the Salvation Armys annual Shoe Strut an event that attracts hundreds of people, mostly women. She said Spector attended the Shoe Strut almost every year. He would get into the spirit of the event by wearing his flashiest shoes, she said. Spector is survived by his wife Alyce (Grunberg) Spector of Paxtang, three children, four grandchildren and one great grand child. Spectors funeral was held on Tuesday at Beth El Temple in Harrisburg. Its been a whirlwind week in Canaan, N.H., with television cameras descending on the town of fewer than 4,000 after news of a cafeteria worker being fired for giving a student a free meal garnered national media attention. Bonnie Kimball claimed that she had lost her job when a supervisor caught her giving food worth $8 to a student whose account had no money. She received an outpouring of support after the story went viral, including a job offer from celebrity chef Jose Andres, and the contractor that employed her offered to rehire her. But now the school district has withdrawn its support for Kimball after the students mother shared information with the New Hampshire Union Leader suggesting Kimball lied and engaged in a cover-up. Kimball had served lunch in the cafeteria of Mascoma Valley Regional High for nearly five years, according to the Valley News, when she was fired March 29. The Union Leader reported, based on her account, that the termination came in response to a manager catching her giving one meal to a student who had no money in his lunch account. After an outpouring of public support for Kimball, the president of the Cafe Services subsidiary that employed her, Brian Stone, said in a May 17 statement to The Washington Post that the company would offer to rehire her. That same day, Kimball told the Associated Press she wasn't interested in taking the job back, alleging that the company, Fresh Picks Cafe, had offered her her job back "so that it could keep its contract [with the school district]." But the mother of the student who got the free lunch from Kimball has now told the Union Leader that Kimball has been dishonest. She said that her son, a 17-year-old, was supposed to bring his own lunches. "I have three children, and they are all well-cared for and well-fed," the mother told the Union Leader. "She did not get fired for feeding a hungry child." The woman, who the Union Leader did not name to protect her privacy, also shared Facebook messages from Kimball to the teenager attempting to cover up her account given to the news media. "We will prolly get written up," Kimball wrote, according to the messages cited by the Union Leader, "but we can make it look good. Lol." Stone said that the teenager received free food from Kimball for three months, not just one meal. The student's mother told the Union Leader that she did not know why Kimball was giving her son free food. "We have nothing to do with her outside of the school system," she told the paper. Kimball rejected the student's mother's claims of a coverup, the Union Leader reported. After the story went viral, Kimball started a GoFundMe account that has raised $8,498 as of May 24. A representative for GoFundMe, who had previously verified the account, told The Washington Post, "GoFundMe will honor refund requests by donors. To date, we have not received any requests for refunds." When first reached for comment May 17, a Cafe Services representative told The Post that "the information as reported is untrue" but declined to elaborate. The school district superintendent, Amanda Isabelle, confirmed that district policy is to provide lunch to every student, regardless of their ability to pay. On May 20, Stone, the president of the Cafe Services subsidiary that employed Kimball, released a video statement explaining that while he had not commented on the matter before out of "respect for the privacy and confidentiality of our employees," he wanted to correct the record. This student hadnt been charged for anything for the previous three months, Stone said. This employee was dishonest and was let go for not following procedures. Isabelle, the school district superintendent, wrote in a May 22 Facebook post that the district was "rescinding its demand that the employee be rehired." "We have been overwhelmed by a crush of national and international media interest in this incident," Isabelle wrote, "but I do not believe we have yet seen a full and complete retelling of the facts." In a separate statement sent to The Post, Stone said he hoped the attention on the story could be directed instead to organizations such as Friends of Mascoma, which supports nutrition in the area. He closed his video statement with a call for a return to normal. Wed like to get back to the business of feeding kids, he said, because thats what we love to do. (c) 2019, The Washington Post Orion Donovan-Smith Two people from Elizabethtown, Lancaster County, are facing charges after police say they stole more than $36,000 from people with mental health issues. Michael Dunk, 53, and Carol Witmer, 52, are each charged after Dunk was designated to be a representative payee for two people with mental health issues, police told LancasterOnline. Police told the news agency that because of the mental status of the two people, they could not account for where any of their money had been going. Dunk and Witmer withdrew a total of $36,284.24 for personal use, according to the report. Dunk was arrested and taken to Lancaster County Prison in lieu of $20,000 bail. Witmer is still at large and police are looking for her. On Dec. 22, 2017, Officer Chad McGowan put on his uniform and got into his patrol car. He started the engine and hit the streets of Harrisburg. He was not supposed to work that day, but his unit was responsible for training three new officers, and McGowan was called in to help. He had no way of knowing that hours later, long after he was supposed to be on his way home, he would be crouched beside his vehicle, exchanging rapid gunfire with a man who was determined to kill him. It was a pretty scary and surreal moment, McGowan said. McGowan on Wednesday will be awarded the Congressional Badge of Bravery for his actions that day by U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., in conjunction with the Harrisburg Police Department. Its an honor given to law enforcement officers for exceptional acts of bravery in the line of duty. The shooting spree began that day near the state Capitol, when gunman Ahmed El-Mofty shot at a Capitol Police officers vehicle. El-Mofty, a 51-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen from Egypt, went on to wound a state trooper before reaching the intersection of 17th and Mulberry streets, where McGowan recognized his vehicle. McGowan had a county probation officer and the officers in training in his unmarked car. When El-Mofty saw them, he pulled over and began walking toward the vehicle with a handgun. I was kind of in big brother mode that day, doing my best to take care of the younger officers and my probation partner that evening, McGowan said. It was really a dual mindset at that point: Protect the citizens of Harrisburg and protect my partners. McGowan got out of his car, identified himself and ordered El-Mofty to drop the weapon. Instead, El-Mofty began shooting. While McGowan exchanged gunfire with El-Mofty, his passengers were able to get out of the vehicle and take cover. After returning to his car to retrieve a second handgun, El-Mofty was fatally wounded, ending his assault. Throughout the course of a lot of great teamwork and I mean the collective efforts of everybody working that day for the Harrisburg city police we were fortunate enough to find the suspects vehicle and do our best to bring the threat to a stop, McGowan said. Now, more than a year after the cross-city shooting spree, McGowan, who joined the Harrisburg Police Department in 2013, will be recognized for his response to it. McGowan will be the third officer from Pennsylvania to receive the honor: Officer Raymond Blohm III of the Upper Darby Police Department was awarded the honor in 2010, and Lieutenant Anthony Palermo, Sergeant James Vogel and Detectives William Friburger Jr. and David Honick of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police were given the honor in 2015. He also received the District Attorneys Award for Valor last year for his actions during the shootout. McGowan said protecting the city that day was a team effort. I couldnt be more humbled to receive this honor, he said. But really, I think Im accepting this on behalf of Commissioner [Thomas] Carter, Deputy Chief [Deric] Moody, the City of Harrisburg, our entire police department [and] all the agencies that helped us come together that day. WASHINGTON (AP) The Supreme Court will not take up a challenge to a Pennsylvania school districts policy allowing transgender students to use bathrooms and locker rooms that correspond with their sexual identity. The justices on Tuesday rejected an appeal from students who argued that allowing transgender students to use the same facilities violated their right to privacy. The courts order leaves in a place a federal appeals court ruling that held the Boyertown School District in Berks County could continue to allow transgender students the choice of what facilities to use. Boyertown is about 45 miles northwest of Philadelphia. The students are represented by the conservative Christian law firm Alliance Defending Freedom. The ACLU hailed the courts order in a post on Twitter Tuesday morning. This move means school districts can continue to allow trans students to participate in school activities, and use restrooms and locker rooms, that match their gender, The ACLU tweeted. UPPER MERION TWP. As Jeff Frank strode out of his polling place on a recent Tuesday morning, poll watchers thanked him for voting. Have a great day enjoy the complaints as they come out the door, Frank responded. Municipal elections tend to be relatively quiet even in Montgomery County, which consistently turns out a higher number of voters than any other county in the state but more-populous Philadelphia and Allegheny counties. But this year, several counties debuted new voting machines and two, including Montgomery, went to an entirely different way of voting. When I came and discovered what the process was, I said, OK, but it is ridiculous, a waste of time and will cause lines so long that people will not be here when the presidential election comes up, Frank said. Other voters exiting the Temple Brith Achim Synagogue polling location in Upper Merion werent quite as animated over the switch from push-button machines to scannable paper ballots filled out by hand. Its even its better now that you actually get a confirmation ticket that your vote was cast. We never got that before, said Tykia Turner. Voter concerns and election security are on county officials minds as they try to save as much money as they can while complying with a state mandate to upgrade their voting machines. For contractors, there could be more than $100 million in contracts at stake. In April of last year, the Department of State told counties that they should pick new voting systems with a voter-verifiable paper record by the end of 2019. The administration of Gov. Tom Wolf committed to having new machines in place by 2020 after settling a lawsuit brought by 2016 Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein. The case targeted Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin for their voting systems susceptibility to hacking and for barriers to recounts. That prompted some questions from reader Glenn Holler. Who stands to profit from the sale of voting machines in PA? Holler asked. How is voting machine certification done? He submitted his questions to the Listening Post. Readers were asked to choose among several questions the one they wanted answered, and Hollers were the most popular. Centre County introduced new Electronic Systems & Software voting machines in the primary on May 21, 2019. So far, five vendors have been certified by the Department of State. The most recent was Hart Intercivic, this month. Others are Election Systems & Software, known as ES&S; Dominion Voting Systems; Clear Ballot; and Unisyn Voting Solutions. In order to be certified, systems first have to be approved by the federal Election Assistance Commission. At the state level, the process takes a few months, and the secretary certification reports are frequently around 100 pages long. When it comes to who profits, records from the Pennsylvania Department of State show that industry giant ES&S, based in Omaha, Neb., leads the pack. As of early May, at least 29 counties had taken what the department considers official action to replace their voting machines. Of those, 18 picked ES&S at an estimated total cost of $48 million. Theres no clear better system Wolf has pledged to pick up at least half the costs of new machines, but its not clear whether the General Assembly will go along with that. The Wolf administration has estimated that replacing the voting machines will cost about $150 million statewide. As of early May, the department had cost estimates for 24 counties. Prices varied. Half of those counties expected to spend more than $1 million on new machines. Kevin Skoglund, chief technologist for Citizens for Better Elections, has been tracking which machines counties pick. He said counties have not gotten a lot of money from the federal government. So, Skoglund said, counties are largely choosing systems based on costs. Theyre extremely price sensitive, Skoglund said. And so what were finding is that thats the number one criteria. Skoglund said the five vendors in Pennsylvania offer similar systems. He compared the choice between vendors to buying a Ford or a Chevy. It really is up to you, as to which machine has the features and options that you like better, Skoglund said. But theres no clear better system. But he said there is an important difference between versions of systems: Whether most voters in a county will vote on hand-marked paper ballots that are scanned into a machine, or by a touch-screen machine that creates a paper record. Counties that select ES&S or Dominion, for instance, can choose between a system that is primarily based on hand-marked paper ballot machines or touch screens. A paper ballot system is cheaper, according to Skoglund and some county officials. Skoglund also believes it is more secure. But, ES&S noted, paper ballots might be more expensive over time, depending on printing costs. The company cited a report from the Georgia Secretary of State. Centre County introduced new Electronic Systems & Software voting machines in the primary on May 21, 2019. The choice also comes down to the jurisdiction and how they make their decision and run their elections, said Kay Stimson, vice president of government affairs for Dominion Voting Systems. There are times where county might save on one piece of equipment, but then need another piece of equipment or different supplies or amounts of supplies such as paper, Stimson said. So far, Skoglund said 18 counties have picked a scannable hand-marked paper ballot option, while six have picked the touch-screen option that prints ballots to be scanned. The list of six includes Philadelphia, where some groups, including Citizens for Better Elections, have objected to the choice; elsewhere, the decision hasnt sparked any kind of backlash. The Leader: ES&S ES&S has some advantages in the contest to win these contracts. About four dozen counties already use ES&S machines or services. Some have been in business with ES&S, which traces its origins back 45 years, for decades. The company also got certified ahead of most other vendors, according to dates listed on the Department of State website. Adams County is going with ES&S, mainly because its machines are lighter and easier to set up one piece versus Dominions three-part devices and voting procedures wont change much, according to Director of Elections & Voter Registration Angie Crouse. When you have 80- and 90-year-old poll workers, thats something you really consider, Crouse said. In Lawrence County, on the Ohio border, election officials rolled out the new ES&S machines in Tuesdays primary. Ed Allison, director of voter registration and elections, said officials there liked the programming for ES&S, which he described as user-friendly. Theyve been around the longest, and weve had good experience with their equipment, Allison said. The county spent about $697,000 on the ES&S voting system plus money for voting booths and additional equipment. The county went with a version that is primarily a paper ballot and optical scanner system. Mifflin County uses ES&S, but several companies are scheduled to visit the central Pennsylvania county in July, said Commissioner Kevin Kodish. Were going to give everybody a fair shot, Kodish said. But ES&S is going to be a high bar to beat, thats for sure. The Runner-Up: Dominion Election equipment is whats known as a sticky market: Its not unusual for customers (in this case, counties) to stay with their existing provider if theyre happy with the service, said Dominions Stimson. Dominion, based in both Canada and the United States, ranked second among vendors in the number of contracts secured, according to Department of State records. Four counties picked a Dominion system, and the value of those contracts was estimated at more than $9 million. Montgomery picked Dominion between the two vendors that could deliver machines in time for an election in 2019, according to spokesman John Corcoran. The countys paying more up front for its $5.8 million contract with Dominion. But the method for reporting results with Dominion machines is closer to the countys procedure with its old machines, Corcoran said. Officials also believe Dominion could prove the cheaper choice over time. One reason is ES&S machines use more custom parts, so repairs might take longer or be more expensive, Corcoran said. Crawford County chose Dominion and opted for a $1.6 million lease instead of an outright purchase. One reason: uncertainty over how quickly requirements could change again, given the accelerating pace of technological innovation amid heightened concerns about election security, according to Chief Clerk and Open Records Officer Gina Chatfield. Also, officials think the new machines could save so much time that fewer will be needed. In Pike County, officials spent about $200,000 for upgrades and chose a hand-marked paper ballot system from Dominion. Nadeen Manzoni, director of elections in Pike County, said Dominion came in as the cheaper option both for the equipment and the long-term election support. Pike County was already using Dominion for election support services and is happy with the company. The Rest of the Pack: Clear Ballot, UniSyn and Hart In Monroe County in northeastern Pennsylvania, commissioners narrowed their choices to two: Dominion and Clear Ballot. They chose Clear Ballot at a cost of more than $750,000 for the hardware and software. Only one other county chose Clear Ballot, according to Department of State records. But Greg Christine, administrator for Monroe County, said commissioners liked Clear Ballot because of how simple it is. I think our voters are going to understand it, he said. Clear Ballot, a Boston-based company founded in 2009, is new to the Pennsylvania voting machine market, so it doesnt have the decades of relationships with counties that some other vendors do. Clear Ballot focuses on a paper-ballot based system, not a touch-screen one that is more familiar to some counties. Sometimes people just arent as open to change that quickly, said marketing director Hillary Lincoln. But weve had great demos with some of those counties, and weve had some counties that are open to that change. Undecided Several counties indicated they wouldve upgraded soon regardless of the state directive, or were even years into researching new machines when it was issued. Some hurried to make a decision to avoid running afoul of state law that prohibits commissioners from taking official action on county voting systems while seeking re-election. The moratorium starts in March, with petition filing, and runs until the general election. Waiting until after that would have meant putting a new system in place during a presidential election, which those counties also wanted to avoid. A few counties are still holding out hope that they wont have to upgrade. Thats the case in Montour County in north-central Pennsylvania. Its a small county with 15 voting precincts. Officials there already have a paper-ballot system in place, and they say buying new machines will put a strain on them. We anticipate moving forward sometime this summer but have been dragging our heels somewhat in case of more comprehensive legislative relief, Holly Brandon, chief clerk and election director for the county, said in an email. Bucks, Dauphin, Delaware and Fayette officials say their voting machines are still in pretty good working order, despite their age. But theyre moving forward. All four, as well as Columbia County, have scheduled public voting machine expositions in June where they hope to get feedback on multiple vendors from poll workers, election officials and anyone else who wants to attend. Similar events were held in other counties including Berks, Chester and Montgomery. Fayettes hoping to move quickly enough for a November debut to avoid launching during a presidential primary, while Delaware is one of seven counties planning on a spring 2020 rollout. Smacks of impropriety Amid the voting machine expos, contract negotiations, moratorium debates and deadlines, Auditor General Eugene DePasquale issued a report detailing counties disclosures of gifts, meals or trips from vendors. ES&S, Dominion, Electec and Unisyn all were flagged. DePasquale said the decision by county officials to accept gifts smacks of impropriety. Some county officials said DePasquales report was being blown out of proportion, while ES&S and Dominion the two companies listed the most times in DePasquales report both denied any wrongdoing, WJAC reported. It also was based on self-reporting, which wasnt consistent across counties. Delaware Countys chief elections clerk Laureen Hagan, for example, disclosed attending vendor-sponsored cocktail parties at conferences run by the Department of State. It was announced, after the fact, that a vendor picked up the beverage tab. The gesture was not specific to me but to all in attendance, Hagan wrote in a letter included in the report. Hagan also disclosed taking pens and notepads from vendor booth displays in the past. Adams County wasnt noted in the report. But it hit a nerve for Crouse, the elections director. He really beat us up, Crouse said. We are all very hard-working people. Fayette County Election Bureau Director Larry Blosser is uncompromising when it comes to accepting gifts. Thats the way Ive been schooled since I started working for the county in 1982: no gifts even if its a little pocket watch, he said. But even with his own staunch rules, Blosser said most of the gifts detailed in the report didnt seem like they were a big deal. And any perceived or actual influence really depends. I can understand if it was a substantial amount of money, or a trip to some exotic place, I can see making an issue with that, Blosser said. But for a candy bar or some crackers, I cant see that. There was, in fact, quite a range of values among the gifts disclosed: from a box of donuts to a trip thousands of miles away. The one incident that really piqued the Auditor Generals interest was a trip to Las Vegas. I would say a trip to Las Vegas paid for by a potential vendor is probably not, optically, the best thing for citizens to see is occurring in our elections office, said Centre County Commissioner Michael Pipe. Same goes for vendors, Pipe said. You dont want to be seen as a vendor thats trying to instead of being the best equipment, or the best provider getting in through another route, through gifts, he said. WPSU reporters Anne Danahy and Min Xian contributed to this report. Will Rolling Thunder return to the nations capital next year? Its hard to say. Organizers say the ride that began in 1988 and this weekend again drew tens of thousands of motorcyclists will not be back in Washington, D.C. next year, but will return as a variety of regional rides, hosted by regional chapters. Well, its not the final Rolling Thunder, its the final one in Washington, D.C., said co-founder Artie Muller, a Vietnam veteran, according to Military.com. Its getting entirely too expensive, theres too much interference -- running around and everything else. But President Trump, who was in Japan, tweeted that the ride would return. The Great Patriots of Rolling Thunder WILL be coming back to Washington, D.C. next year, & hopefully for many years to come, he tweeted Sunday. It is where they want to be, & where they should be. Have a wonderful time today. Thank you to our great men & women of the Pentagon for working it out! One question is whether organizers want that. The ride began in 1988 to draw attention to Vietnam War POWs and MIAs. Tens of thousands of motorcyclists begin at the Pentagon parking lot, ride over a bridge into Washington, D.C., and circle the National Mall before ending the ride at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Unquestionably, some of the riders were calling for the Washington ride to return next year. And Karen Worcester, executive director of Wreaths Across America, appeared on Fox and Friends Monday and announced a donation of $200,000 to Rolling Thunder to help cover costs of the ride, according to Fox News. But Muller said hes had no communication with Trump. He didnt close the door on the idea that something could happen to make the ride return next year. But he also seemed to question whether that was desireable. He said the $200,000 it costs to stage the ride could be better spent on veterans issues and organizing rides by local chapters. Our mission is still our POWs and MIAs and making sure that veterans get the services they need, organization spokeswoman Nancy Regg told USA Today. But weve been at this for 32 years and our founder is 73 years old. Its time for change. For sixty years, the Keystone Chapter of the Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) has fought to defend free enterprise and promote the merit shop philosophy throughout central Pennsylvania. With nearly 600 member companies throughout an 11-county region, ABC has allies at every level of government who cast votes to end discrimination, promote fair contracting, and preserve equal treatment for construction professionals to compete and earn business fairly. So, I was deeply disappointed when I learned that Cumberland County Commissioners Gary Eichelberger and Vince DiFilippo were catering to a small fraction of the construction industry by turning their back on fair and open competition. Months ago, ABC approached the board of commissioners about adopting an ordinance that would prohibit the use of project labor agreements (PLAs) on county-owned and county-financed projects. PLAs allow any qualified party to bid on a project, but mandate that the winning contractor utilize employees from prescribed organized labor halls rather than use his/her own employees. This type of discrimination in construction is outlawed in 24 states nationwide and three other counties in Pennsylvania. Cumberland Countys workforce is overwhelmingly merit shop, and some of the regions strongest contractors are headquartered in the county, so I am deeply troubled by the decision of two Republican commissioners to ignore these constituents and placate labor unions from as far off as Pittsburgh. I hope that ultimately, Cumberland County will make the right decision to support free enterprise and prohibit blatant workforce discrimination. G. David Sload, president-CEO, ABC Keystone, Manheim, Lancaster County Russia continues to be an adversary of the United states, and keeps trying to encroach into the Western Hemisphere, and create instability in the region. When I served onboard a radar picket ship in the Pacific during the 1950s we tracked and reported Russian bear bombers making practice runs approaching the west coast of the U.S. In the early 1960s Russia installed missile batteries in Cuba which threatened the U.S. We implemented a naval blockade and Russia was forced to remove the missiles. Once again, Russia is becoming militarily involved in the Western Hemisphere. They have bilateral agreements with dictator Maduro of Venezuela which they are expanding. On March 23, 2019, two Russian air force planes landed in Venezuela carrying 100 special forces personnel to help bolster the Maduro regime. We have to help the democratic forces in Venezuela oust Maduro so we can get the Russians out of Venezuela. The Russians are a threat to the countries in the region and could threaten the U.S. and our interests in the Western Hemisphere. President Trump told the Russians to get out of Venezuela. I commend him for realizing the adversarial threat Russia poses to the United States. Donald Moskowitz, Londonderry, New Hampshire Michigan's redistricting commission adopts final congressional map The vote Tuesday leaves Michigan with 13 new U.S. House districts for the next decade. On a lazy morning in December 2007, Steve Pacek called out his partners name. But there was no answer. Thirty-year-old Jorge Maldonado had died suddenly of arrhythmia. Three years of grief later, Pacek, a Philly actor and playwright, worked with close friends and colleagues to craft an experimental play based on his experience, premiering it at the Philadelphia Fringe Festival in 2010. Nine years after its original run, [Untitled Project] #213 comes to Norristowns Theatre Horizon on Friday through Sunday. It then travels to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland, where it runs Aug. 4-17. Pacek, 40, talked with The Inquirer about his journey to healing and his creative process. This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity. What do you remember about the day your partner died? I remember going into the shower, and before I went in, he gave me a big bear hug, which didnt seem out of the ordinary. When I got out of the shower, the entire world had shifted. I could see down the long hall of our apartment, and I saw him lying on the ground. I called again and still no answer. ... I ran out into the hallway of the building just screaming, Help! Help! over and over again. I found my phone and called 911. There was a construction worker doing something on our floor, and he came in and did CPR. He talked me through everything until the ambulance got there. When I was in the ambulance, I heard the words code blue. I didnt know what it meant at the time. What made you want to bring this experience to the theater? We myself; Jen Rose, who is the choreographer; and Dan Kazemi, who is the composer didnt necessarily know we were going to end up writing a story about this. We were three very good friends, and we were living together at the time at 213 McKean St., so thats where the number 213 in the title comes from. We were just a really creative household. We would create stuff as we were sitting on the couch watching TV. We would pick up instruments and write things. Obviously, during that time I was still processing [the loss]. So when we started to create stuff, it just seemed like the right thing to do. We decided to lean into [the pain] and maybe find some kind of release or catharsis. Was it difficult to revisit those emotions? Yeah, definitely. At the time, it wasnt dredging up; the feelings were ever-present. Once we started doing rehearsals with the cast, I remember having to share Jorges story because some of the cast knew Jorge and some didnt. So the act of getting to tell people about who he was and how it affected me actually became helpful, but hard at the same time. Many, many, many tears were shed. What were you trying to accomplish with [Untitled Project] #213? To celebrate somebody who is no longer here. The reason we tell the story through music, through poetry, through dance is because there is not a lot of [dialog]. We found this one Marcel Marceau quote that says, Do not the most moving moments of our lives find us all without words?" And that struck me. If theres not much dialogue, how do you portray grief? Theres a section after the climactic moment of the piece, where the audience sees the CPR process through dance. We stylized that and choreographed it according to my memory. Then theres a scene that we call the Coat Dance. I bring out a coat rack and put a hanger and hat on it. Thats the moment where I bring Jorge back to life near the end of the show. A part of what my character in the piece does is hold on to things that remind you of [the deceased]. I put on a piece of music and I bring the coat back to life, but I manipulate it so it looks like a separate person. Through listening to the music, my character is transported and able to go back to relive the moments. Its a way [to dramatize how we] find comfort in somebody that you cant talk to anymore. Has the show been workshopped or altered in any way since its premiere? Bits and pieces. The spaces that weve worked in have been different, so the play has to breathe in a new space. This production now at Theatre Horizon and then moving on to Edinburgh in August is also going to feature a new cast member. What would Jorge say about the play? Jorge would love that I made a show about him. I feel like he has been a part of the process. We would have these long conversations, and one of the frequent topics was synchronicity. We always felt that those little signals from the universe help us feel like were on the right track. I still feel like thats how we communicate. Nonverbal, nonphysical, but through little messages that the universe drops along the way. THEATER [Untitled Project] #213 May 31-June 2 at Theatre Horizon, 401 DeKalb St., Norristown. Sold out. Information: 610-283-2230, theatrehorizon.org. Jesse Waters, front row, has spearheaded a range of changes for the West Chester University Poetry Conference. On the back row are (left to right:) Luke Stromberg, conference coordinator; K. Hyoejin Yoon, senior associate dean of arts and humanities; and Cyndy Pilla, head of logistics and planning of the College of Arts and Humanities. Read more The West Chester University Poetry Conference is throwing the doors wide open. Since 1994, West Chester has been the yearly destination of famous poets, would-be poets, teachers, and poetry lovers. Running this year from June 5 to 8, the gathering has earned a reputation as one of the biggest and best in the country. Now, thanks to new management and a refreshed outlook, West Chester is seeking diversity in the big names, the kinds of poetry discussed, and, most of all, the people invited, as in students, teachers, and people of different backgrounds. Art has to stay alive, says Jesse Waters, artistic director since January 2018, and that means young people. Waters has rejiggered admission fees so its easier for students and teachers to attend, and hes bringing in new names and themes. But what about West Chesters hallmark, its stress on form, the tough, hands-on structuring and shaping of poems? That stays, Waters says: We want to make sure the young poets out there who are as obsessed as we are with form know they have a place where they can come to grow and contribute. But U.S. poetry is busting out all over. The American way of poetry is growing and changing all the time, Waters says, and we dont want to lose that sense of vitality and exploration. The bumpy road to now Its been a bumpy road for the conference during the last few years. After concerns about finances and leadership, it went dark in 2015. Interim director Sam Gwynn resuscitated it in 2016-17, but in a decision that caused controversy in the poetry world, his appointment was not renewed. Waters was brought in and has breasted the tide handily, eager to reassure the old guard and welcome the new. Welcome starts with ease of access. A new pricing structure aims to make it easier for students to attend. Though full-on admission for all five days runs to $549, students can attend for $299 (meals and housing included), or $199 (meals only). Waters says that speaking anecdotally, our registration numbers are running healthily ahead of last year." (Information on registration is at wcupa.edu/poetry.) For teachers, theres an all-day Saturday session called Teaching Poetry: Connecting Head with Heart, taught by conference veterans Rhina Espaillat and Jennifer Ozgur. Its priced at $49, or $59 with lunch. As for big names, both old and new will be on hand. Mainstays include keynoter David Yezzi and fine poet/teachers like Espaillat, Ned Balbo, and Jane Satterfield. One of the fresh names this year is Jericho Brown, a poet from Emory University in Atlanta. Hes both a voice from right now and the inventor of a new form called the duplex, a richly ironic verse form with stanzas of two lines each. The second line becomes the first line of the next couplet, except ... somethings different. Heres a taste, from his poem titled Duplex: A poem is a gesture toward home. It makes dark demands I call my own. Memory makes demands darker than my own: My last love drove a burgundy car. My first love drove a burgundy car. He was fast and awful, tall as my father. Steadfast and awful, my tall father Hit hard as a hailstorm. Hed leave marks. ... Browns workshop for the conference is called Jumpstart Your Engines, and it runs for three days. Im completely excited about contributing to a conference with the history that West Chester has, he says. Brown is a big reason Julia Mallory, 36, is traveling from Harrisburg to take part. Im a black woman, Mallory says, and many times Ill look at an event and ask, Are there going to be people there, not just who look like me but who are doing the type of writing Im interested in? A poet like Jericho Brown teaching a three-day workshop really sealed the deal for me. The West Chester atmosphere of almost familial warmth and conviviality, as Espaillat puts it also works for Alexander R. Murphy, 25, from Atlanta. He went blindly in 2017, he says, and was ready to feel intimidated. But everyone was very welcoming and nice to me and they were some of the smartest people I ever met. Which is saying something because Murphy is a graduate student in mechanical engineering at Georgia Tech. He minored in English as an undergrad at the University of South Florida, and an English teacher impressed with his poetry chops encouraged him to try out West Chester. He went again last year. It was clear there had been a regime change, he says. But he liked it: The biggest difference was the participation and inclusion of a younger audience, way more college students. I made many more connections last year with people my age. Chad Abushanab won the coveted Donald Justice Poetry Award last year at the conference; it goes to the best book-length collection of poetry that pays attention to form. When I heard about West Chester, he says, I thought, Ive found my people. The word I keep coming back to is community. Abushanab, 33, who identifies as an Arab American poet, says that as a somewhat younger poet of color who writes in formal verse, which isnt always the most popular kind of poetry in some areas, I cant tell you how encouraging it was, how much impact its had. I woke up this morning with a poem in the New York Times Sunday supplement. He says Waters is bringing in more diverse voices and trying to angle for younger poets, people who are newer to poetry in general. That is really important if we want to keep poetry alive. Waters keeps expanding the pool and has spent the last 17 months reaching out to college and high school groups. Matthew Kay is a teacher at the Science Leadership Academy and founder of the Philly Slam League, a poetry program that involves around 300 students from 22 schools all over town. He says Waters has been a judge in Slam League events for the last two years and has sent poets to talk to the league. An early end of the school year prevented kids from attending this years conference, Kay says, But were going to start next year. Jesse and I have been talking about the possibilities. Im excited about what could happen. SPRINGFIELD The Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts of St. Matthews on Saturday replaced the American flags at the graves of service members resting in Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery. The boys enjoy it and it gives them a sense of service, Scout Master Pack 503 Ed Burkhalter said. Ryan Henry, an Eagle Scout with Pack 503, finds the activity over Memorial Day weekend meaningful because he comes from a family with a history of serving in the military. This is one of my favorite things to do as a scout. It means so much to me, said Henry, who has participated every year. I cant find the words to describe it. Looking out in the field and seeing all the American flags and for them to not be forgotten, it means so much to me. He looks up to his relatives, who have served in the military, including his uncle who retired from the Air Force. Henry has plans to attend the Air Force Academy or Naval Academy, or attend a college where he can join the ROTC program. Through his Eagle Scout project he has helped service members by collecting donations to send to the troops deployed in Afghanistan as well as to domestic military bases. He created 12 drop-off boxes in Springfield and Morton to send necessities to the troops, such as undergarments, hygiene products, and snacks. People can donate anything that would bring (the troops) comfort, Henry said. Those who serve are guaranteeing a better tomorrow for us. Joe Myers, a Den Leader with the Cub Scouts Pack 503, described the day as patriotic. He said that it is nice to show appreciation for those who have served to protect our daily freedoms. Even though they have passed on, were thinking of them, Myers said. He added that the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts are service-oriented, and they learn about duty, service, and citizenship. This project represents those three values. This is one of the most important things we do to understand the importance, the meaning of the flag, said Robert Suter, Tiger Den Scout Leader Pack 503. About 80 scouts replaced more than 3,000 flags. The scouts will participate in a ceremony to retire and properly dispose of the old flags. Senior Patrol Leader Andrew Lim, enjoys seeing the tombstones of those who served in during different wars and he likes to look at what years people served. To me, it seems very respectful and patriotic to replace the flags, Lim said. Lim, a first-generation scout, enjoys the relationships created in the scouts and he has fun participating in the service projects. It feels like were bringing everyone together for this one project, Lim said. It pushes you to learn more and become more. Wireless companies will install thousands of these on light and utility poles in Philadelphia. Read more On a walk around Society Hill, lawyer Paul Boni looked up at 38th Parallel Place and Spruce Street and was surprised to see a big brown box with wires hanging on a city light pole. He looked around the neighborhood. There were more of them, seemingly on every block. My initial reaction, Boni said, was what government spy technology is this? Boni put the question of the boxes provenance to Curious Philly the forum through which we answer queries from readers about the city and region and heres what we found. Theyre new small cell antennas for mobile coverage, a Philadelphia official said after reviewing photos that Boni emailed to The Inquirer. And Philadelphia residents will start seeing more -- many more -- of them. So far, wireless providers have installed 1,824 small cells in Philadelphia in public rights-of-way. But thats only the leading edge of an invasion. Over the next decade, AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and Sprint will each hang several thousand small cells on light and utility poles around the city, part of an infrastructure project that will entail an estimated 800,000 small cells nationwide. They boost cellular coverage -- more coverage bars on smartphones -- and prepare the city for next-generation 5G wireless services. Zoning fights have broken out over how and where telecom companies can put them throughout Pennsylvania and other states. There was a big zoning fight in Doylestown Borough in Bucks County as residents feared that the ugly boxes detracted from the boroughs charm. Boni is somewhat uncomfortable with the small cells. He thinks that, over time, they might be unnecessary as technology advances. Other observers have raised concerns about potential health effects of wireless beams from small cells outside apartment windows or near playgrounds. "Landlines seem to be a dying thing and we realize we need cell phone coverage not just for 911 but for everyone,said Richard Montanez, the citys deputy commissioner of transportation. Philadelphia has asked the carriers to co-locate their small cell antennas, Montanez said. This means two or more wireless carriers use the same equipment on the same pole. Small cell antennas are mini-cell towers that utilize public rights-of-way. Theyre inexpensive for the telecom companies to put them up. 5G services will lead to driver-less cars. It also is expected to enhance telemedicine. Wireless companies say they will offer high-speed internet services over 5G networks to compete with Comcast and other cable companies, though some analysts are skeptical that 5G can deliver on all its hype. The Trump administration has said that the U.S. has to be a global leader in 5G, beating China at this next-generation wireless service. In 2018, the Federal Communications Commission made it easier for wireless carriers to install the small cells. Cities blasted the new FCC rules as subsidizing profitable wireless carriers through low fees and mandated quick responses to applications. Philadelphia was among the cities opposed to the new rules. Philadelphia charges carriers $400 to review applications for the small cells on utility-owned wood poles and $800 for city light poles. There is a $50-a-year inspection fee, and the permits last a decade. Verizon released this photo of a truck believed to have been used by a vandal who cut a communications cable in Cherry Hill on April 28. Read more Cherry Hill police arrested a 38-year-old Southamption, N.J., man for allegedly cutting Verizon Communication telecom lines and selling it for scrap, the Cherry Hill police said on Tuesday. David Reidenbaker has been charged with theft, criminal mischief and other crimes for damaging Verizon property during three incidents in March and April. Reidenbaker also has been charged with similar crimes in Burlington County and other jurisdictions, the Cherry Hill police said. He was sent to Burlington County Jail. Detectives from the Cherry Hill Police Department and the New Jersey State Police Red Lion Barracks jointly broke the case. Verizon publicized the crimes with a photo of a pickup truck that it said was used in the crimes, looking for tips. Thousands of residents lost their communications with the damage to their lines. Verizon also offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. A Verizon spokesman said on Tuesday that law-enforcement authorities cracked the case without the tips. We encouraged that authorities have made an arrest in this case, Verizon said. "These actions have put thousands of lives at risk by cutting off essential lifelines to fire and police departments, doctors and the families of those impacted. These sorts of activities cannot and should not be tolerated. A circa 1866 Ku Klux Klan robe and hood is displayed in the new exhibit "Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality," at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Read more Jeffrey Rosen, the CEO of the National Constitution Center, is the kind of guy who gets as wound up talking about things like the 15th Amendment as a Phillies fan might get after a Rhys Hoskins walk-off homer, but nothing gets him as excited about the centers new permanent exhibit on Civil War and Reconstruction as when he shows off a simple box wrapped in bright green paper. This in some ways is the most moving artifact the first time that African Americans voted in Virginia! Rosen enthused, gesturing at the separate-but-equal (since whites continued to use an ornate wood ballot box) relic from 1867. It is literally a cereal box theres still an ad for Jamaican ginger on the back but, Rosen explained, the people who made it wanted to dignify it by creating this beautiful green paper to signify the very first black votes. The green box spotlights the feel-good narrative that my generation of baby boomers and presumably todays kids, to the extent that they learn American history and civics at all learned about the Civil War and the freeing of the slaves in the mid-1860s. But right at this very moment, the 19th century abolitionist and suffragist Frances Ellen Watkins Harper performed with amazing grace by actor Nastassja Baset Whitman strolled into the exhibit space, stepped up to podium and dropped a truth bomb from 1875 about what else happened in the decade after Appomattox. And yet, with all the victories and triumphs which freedom and justice have won in this country, I do not believe there is another civilized nation under heaven where there are half as many people who have been brutally and shamefully murdered, with or without impunity, as in this Republic within the last ten years, she said. Harpers speech delivered here in Philadelphia to the Pennsylvania Society for Promoting the Abolition of Slavery focused on how far America still lagged in delivering racial equality. The murders she referenced were committed by the night riders of the Ku Klux Klan and by white rioters like those in Mississippi who on one day of infamy Dec. 7, 1874 killed 75 to 300 blacks while forcing an African American sheriff from office, or those in New Orleans who in 1866 killed 44 African Americans in disputes over voting and the so-called black codes, which were laws that made it easy to imprison newly freed slaves or force them into labor. And who cares? asked the aggrieved Harper in a ghostly voice from 144 years ago. Where is the public opinion that has scorched with red hot indignation the cowardly murderers of Vicksburg and Louisiana? Who cares, indeed ... then, or now? The echoes of what Harper called out here in Philly in 1875 the run-up to decades of unconscionable American apartheid known as Jim Crow reverberate across todays America, whether in the new wave of voter suppression laws taking hold in much of the country, the mass incarceration of blacks that hinges on a few words in 1865s 13th Amendment, or a president determined to preserve a regressive way of life much like Southerners did in the 1870s. We have a long way to go, but in the Trump Era, more and more Americans are starting to get it. They get that while there was undoubtedly profound moral courage during the 1860s, from Abraham Lincoln and antislavery icons like Pennsylvanias Thaddeus Stevens to the thousands of blacks who escaped bondage to fight for the Union side, that led to a remarkable victory in ending slavery, the real story of the Civil War era is less triumph and more like, triumph followed by a stunning betrayal. The fact that Southerners called their role in this betrayal Redemption is beyond Orwellian. The National Constitution Center and exhibition developer Elena Popchock deserve a lot of credit for spotlighting both the idealistic promise but also the hard truths of the Reconstruction era (and if you havent been to the NCC, this neat new, permanent exhibit is the perfect excuse to get yourself down there), but others are also now telling the reality how the stone of racism proved too heavy for 19th century Americans to roll away. The historian Henry Louis Gates Jr. contributed to the recent outstanding PBS series Reconstruction: America After the Civil War and authored a book to set the record straight. A recent New Yorker piece by Adam Gopnik captured this revisionist zeitgeist: How the South Won The Civil War. Gates recently told WHYYs Terry Gross on Fresh Air that watching the white political backlash of the 2010s is what inspired his renewed interest in the post-Civil War era. And I realized that what we were seeing, what we were witnessing, was Reconstruction redux the period of black optimism and black hope, when we thought that you know, even for a time, scholars fantasized that we were at the end of race and racism. You remember that, at the beginning of Barack Obamas presidency? All of that was followed by an alt-right rollback and the rise of white supremacy, and thats exactly what happened in the period immediately following the Civil War, between 1865 and 1877, when black people experienced more freedom and more rights than at any other time in American history. What infuriates me is that in the schoolhouses of the 1960s and 70s, I learned next to nothing about Reconstruction or the Jim Crow segregation that followed it. I guess the truth didnt quite fit the American Exceptionalism spin that was part of the Cold War. What little I do remember is learning that Northern troops hung around the South for a few years, that sleazy carpetbaggers from the North tried to take advantage (why we were taught this pro-Confederate talking point, I have no idea) and there was this crazy period where blacks even won elections. Then the troops left and America got back to normal if you think of normal as African Americans not voting and held back by the serfdom of the sharecropper economy while whites erected granite monuments to their heroes of the Lost Cause (that cause being violent rebellion against the U.S. government, on behalf of white supremacy.) We didnt spend one second learning that most of the roughly 2,000 black office holders from the 1860s and 70s were eloquent and courageous fighters for the American ideal like Mississippis Hiram Rhodes Revels or Joseph Rainey, the first black elected to the U.S. House, from South Carolina. And I wasnt until I was a middle-aged adult that I learned about the Compromise of 1877, in which the Democrats let Republicans keep the White House in a disputed presidential election in return for pulling those troops out of the South and teeing it up for the Jim Crow era. Arguably, this sellout changes America for bad as much as the Emancipation Proclamation had changed it for good. The lies of omission that our teachers committed mattered then and now its just as critical that todays Americans finally learn the real history. There are several reasons for this. One is as Professor Gates stated more eloquently that the proper context of seeing the fight against white supremacy as a sad constant of our national story, and not as this thing that was beaten down in 1865 and 1965 and 2008 only to mysteriously pop back up, helps to gird us for the difficult task at hand. Whats more, understanding the struggle for freedom and civil rights that led to the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments, only to see that how that power was whittled away, is critical for understanding the reactionary culture that in 2019 is waging war across on multiple fronts, from the effort to control womens bodies in the states of the Old Confederacy to the ultimate goal of Trump henchman Stephen Miller to somehow rob the kids of immigrants the birthright citizenship guaranteed in the 14th Amendment. But theres something else about the end of Reconstruction that very much dovetails whats happening right now, and that is the matter of political will. The horrible things that became entrenched between 1877 and 1900 segregated drinking fountains and swimming pools, poll taxes and literacy tests on Election Day didnt happen in a vacuum. They happened because well-intentioned people especially political leaders lacked courage or just got too lazy to keep fighting for what was right, or they chose short-term self-interest (like keeping the White House in 1877) over moral principles. And because a reactionary Supreme Court picked the backward old ways over civil rights. Does any of that sound familiar? At the National Constitution Center, visitors at the end of their journey through the ups and downs of the post-Civil War amendments are confronted with the word BACKLASH and the surreal and grim figure of a real-life KKK white costume and hood from 1866. Its a haunting specter of what can go wrong in 1877 or 2019 when bad people are determined and when good people are too worn down to do the right thing. Earlier this year in Phoenix, DACA supporters march to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office. A new poll shows wide support in three battleground states for the program, which allows children who were unlawfully brought into the country by immigrant parents to live and work in the United States. Many grew up here, knowing no other country. Read more A new poll of residents in Pennsylvania and two other battleground states shows strong support for immigrants who were unlawfully brought to the United States as children. And for those who came legally, and were permitted to stay, after war or natural disaster devastated their homelands. The survey found that 78 percent of people surveyed in Michigan, 74 percent in Colorado, and 71 percent in Pennsylvania thought the federal government should offer a path to citizenship for DACA recipients and TPS holders. DACA stands for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, a program that barred the deportation of young immigrants who were illegally brought into the United States by their parents. President Donald Trump ended the program, under which about 790,000 people live, work and go to school in this country, but enforcement of that 2017 termination has been blocked by the courts. TPS, short for Temporary Protected Status, is a special immigration category that allows about 320,000 people from 10 countries to live and work in the United States because of floods, droughts, epidemics or fighting in their home nations. The program was not meant to be permanent when enacted by Congress in 1990. Some countries never recovered from natural disaster, and some TPS-holders dread forced return to violent homelands. The United States currently grants TPS to migrants from El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. The poll was conducted across several days in May and commissioned by the Immigration Hub, a Washington advocate for progressive policies. Trump narrowly won Michigan and Pennsylvania in 2016, while Hillary Clinton took Colorado in close voting. All three states with a combined 45 electoral votes are expected to play an important role in the 2020 election, where immigration promises to be a contentious issue. The House of Representatives is reviewing a bill called the Dream and Promise Act, which provides DACA and TPS holders with a means to gain U.S. citizenship. Meanwhile, Trump has begun his reelection campaign with rallies in key states such as Pennsylvania. Trump has made crystal clear that his 2020 strategy is all about immigration, but voters want solutions and not carnival barking and policies that separate families, Immigration Hub director Tyler Moran said in a statement. The Dream and Promise Act is just that. The bill protects over one million community members, colleagues and neighbors who are Dreamers and TPS holders. In Pennsylvania, the poll showed, support for a route to citizenship was strong overall but split on party lines approved by 92 percent of Democrats, 68 percent of Independents, and 48 percent of Republicans. Among the 20 percent opposed overall, the breakdown was 4 percent of Democrats, 16 percent of Independents, and 37 percent of Republicans. DACA allows undocumented immigrants to register with the government and contribute to their communities, paying taxes and holding jobs without fear of being deported. Those opposed to the program say the government must enforce its immigration laws equally, without exceptions based on age. Allowing DACA to continue, they say, makes the U.S. an amnesty magnet for undocumented migrants. Dan Stein, president of the Federation for American Immigration Reform, which seeks to lower both legal and undocumented immigration, has called the creation of DACA an unconstitutional abuse of executive authority by President Obama, and asserted that Trump has full authority to do away with the program. His organization has blamed activist judges for preventing the president from ending DACA. The federal government holds the power to designate a country for TPS, and to decide when conditions merit its cessation. The courts have barred termination of TPS for Haiti, Nepal, Honduras and other countries. Rev. Jean Waites-Howard sits for a portrait with a program from a funeral she officiated outside her home in Norristown. Waites-Howard has delivered a number of eulogies for the West Philadelphia community where she grew up. Read more In a close-knit West Philadelphia community where churches are spiritual homes for some and foreign spaces for others, evangelist Jean Waites-Howard is the neighborhood eulogist. At a reunion picnic, she described a gang-member-turned-activist as a warrior for the community. A revered elder who dispensed advice as he walked the streets with a limp was memorialized with a Kahlil Gibran poem. A college roommate who became a nun was remembered as the mischievous student who told Waites-Howard, now 70, to lie as a cover for an off-campus escapade. In churches, funeral homes, parks, and at family gatherings, Waites-Howard, who recently moved to Norristown, has delivered farewell portraits of the dead to comfort the living. It is a skill that she has developed over the course of 20 years as part of a rite that has been the responsibility of both the lesser-known, such as Waites-Howard, and the routinely spotlighted: Abraham Lincoln, Adlai Stevenson, and Madonna have all done it. It is the final bow at the eleventh hour, said writer Cyrus Copeland, author of Passwords: 7 Steps to Writing a Memorable Eulogy, published in March. It often tells as much about the eulogizer as the dearly departed, said Copeland, who splits his time between Bryn Mawr and New York. At their best, eulogies bestow a gift to the grieving of a multidimensional portrayal that is familiar and often revelatory, Copeland said. At their worst, they are boring, cliche-ridden tomes that fail to say anything new or insightful, said writer Phyllis Theroux, of Richmond, Va., author of The Book of Eulogies, published in 1997. Politician and diplomat Adlai Stevenson described the challenge of delivering a well-drawn eulogy as standing at the edge of loss attempting to retrieve some memory, some human meaning from the silence, something which is precious and gone. He said those words at the funeral of Eleanor Roosevelt. Copeland, 55, delivered his first eulogy when he was called on to speak at the funeral of his father, Max, in 1992. The desire to create an evocative portrait so moved him that he resolved to write a book about eulogies. It took him 10 years, and the tragedy of 9/11, to do it. By 2001, Copeland was living in New York and working as an advertising executive. After the terror attacks, he was surrounded by the remembrances of those lost in the rubble of the World Trade Center. In 2003, he published Farewell, Godspeed: The Greatest Eulogies of Our Time. In it, actor Ossie Davis says of Malcolm X: We will know him then for what he was and is a prince, our own black, shining Prince! who didnt hesitate to die because he loved us so. Writer and activist Max Eastman says of the last time he saw dancer Isadora Duncan, she raised her hand to wave goodbye, moving slowly in a serene and strong benediction. ... She looked like a statue of real liberty. Madonna starts her eulogy of designer Gianni Versace by saying: I slept in Gianni Versaces bed, of course he wasnt in it at the time, but I couldnt help feeling that I was soaking up some of his aura. The history of the eulogy dates to 431 BCE, when Greek general and statesman Pericles delivered a speech during a public funeral for the dead soldiers who fought in the Peloponnesian War in Greece, Copeland said. Americans usually attribute the art of eulogizing to Lincolns 272-word Gettysburg Address delivered in 1863 during the dedication of what was then the Soldiers National Cemetery (now Gettysburg National Cemetery). Lincoln honored those who died in defense of the country, saying, That these dead shall not have died in vain. The practice has evolved from one dominated by clergy who interweave messages of salvation with biography, Copeland said, to more democratic remembrances delivered by family members and friends. He attributes the trend to Princess Dianas funeral, when her brother, Charles Spencer, delivered a blazing eulogy, as well as the transience of families who may no longer be closely connected to clergy, and reality TV, which has made people more comfortable with stepping up to the microphone. Funeral director David Peake, of the Mannal Funeral Home in Mayfair, refers family members to funeralbasics.org for a primer on how to craft a stellar eulogy. He advises that they tell stories, inject a little humor, be specific about memories and characteristics, and always speak to the heart, said Peake, president-elect of the Pennsylvania Funeral Directors Association who also operates the Craft Funeral Home in Springfield, Montgomery County. Copeland has traveled to lead discussions of eulogies at funeral director conventions, and Theroux hosted book readings where she would draft prominent people to read eulogies of the famous. Years ago, former U.S. Sen. Eugene McCarthy participated, reading a tribute that had been written about Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey. This year, on her 80th birthday, Theroux got a glimpse into a future she wouldnt ordinarily have been able to experience. Her son, actor Justin Theroux, threw her a party and invited 12 of her friends. A condition of attendance? They had to write a mock eulogy for his mother. Justin Theroux told her friends, You know how much Mom loves compliments; this way, shell be able to hear them, Phyllis Theroux recalled. The experience was not macabre, she said, but heartwarming and hilarious. Its true," she said with a laugh. "I love compliments. I thought they were great. FILE - In this May 22, 2016, file photo, former Belgian King Albert II arrives for a tribute ceremony at the Royal Palace in Brussels for the victims of the Brussels attacks. Belgiums former monarch Albert II has agreed to a DNA test demanded by a woman who claims to be his love child. King Albert II, who abdicated in 2013 for health reasons, is facing a daily fine of 5,000 euros ($5,600) for failing to provide his DNA in the case brought by Delphine Boel. She reacted with relief Tuesday, May 28, 2019 saying that final proof would soon be in the hands of the judiciary. (Frederic Sierakowski/Pool Photo via AP, File) Read more BRUSSELS (AP) A decades-old royal paternity scandal is setting Belgium abuzz again. Lawyers said Tuesday that Belgium's former King Albert II, 84, has finally agreed to a DNA test demanded by a woman who claims to be his daughter in what could be a decisive breakthrough in the long-running case. By the evening, news of the former king's acquiescence had already pushed Sunday's Belgium election results with its extreme right gains into second place on the local news. King Albert II, who abdicated in 2013 for health reasons, had been facing a daily fine of 5,000 euros ($5,600) for failing to provide his DNA in the case brought by 51-year-old Delphine Boel. Boel has been trying to establish paternity for years and her story has often made headlines. Albert has never publicly denied being her father but so far refused to provide DNA. A statement from Albert's lawyer, delivered to the Belgian media, said after the former monarch had taken note of the judgment two weeks ago, which imposed the daily fine, he would submit to the test "out of respect to the judicial authorities." It was made clear the move did not imply any admission of guilt. Boel's lawyer, Yves-Henri Leleu, said she "reacted very positively, because with the DNA test, the biological evidence is now there." The lawyer for the former monarch said the DNA results would have to be sealed until later in the legal case. Rumors about Albert and Boel's mother, the aristocratic wife of a well-heeled industrialist, had been around for years. But the news the king may have had a child with her broke out into the open when a biography of Albert's wife, Queen Paola was published in 1999. In his Christmas message to the nation that year, King Albert indirectly confessed to a past infidelity and said he and Queen Paola lived through a "crisis" in the late 1960s that almost wrecked their marriage but that "a long while ago" they overcame their marital problems. Six years ago, Boel, who has a striking resemblance to some members of the royal family, opened court proceedings to prove that Albert is her father. Boel, an artist and sculptor, has always said that she brought the paternity case due to anger since she was being cold-shouldered by the royal family. KATHMANDU, Nepal Chatur Tamang was on his way to the roof of the world when he hit a traffic jam. Ahead of him, on the final ascent to Mount Everest, he saw more than 100 people bunched together on the narrow ridge that leads to the summit a place so high that it is known as the "death zone," where the human body has trouble functioning. Some of those descending from the summit pleaded desperately with those ascending to clear a way for them to pass since they had run out of oxygen. "That sent chills down my spine," said Tamang, 45, a mountaineering guide who lives in Russia. He fears that if no action is taken, the crowds next year could be worse, with potentially fatal consequences. At least 11 people died trying to reach the summit of the world's tallest mountain this year, the deadliest climbing season for the peak in four years. One factor contributing to this year's toll appears to have been crowding as scores of people attempted to ascend in a short window of good weather, producing delays that extended the time climbers spent at deadly altitudes. Now officials in Nepal are reviewing whether to change the way access to Everest works. Some experts say that the government should extend the climbing season in May or implement certain requirements for climbers, a number of whom lack experience or sign on with companies offering bargain-priced expeditions. Nirmal Purja, an accomplished climber who is attempting to summit 14 peaks worldwide within seven months, was on his way down from the summit at Everest when he decided to stop and photograph the scene behind him. It was unusually cold, he said, and extraordinarily crowded. "I've seen traffic, but not this crazy," said Purja, who has summited Everest four times. Purja is among those who believe that the solution is to lengthen the traditional climbing season at Everest to spread out the climbers attempting to reach the summit. The Nepali government granted 381 permits to climb the mountain this year, a record. At least double that number of people were on the mountain, since the figure does not include guides. Because of the crowds, some climbers took longer than normal to make their way up the mountain. One of them was Nihal Bhagwan, a 27-year old Indian man who died of dehydration, exhaustion and high-altitude sickness, said Keshav Paudel of Peak Promotions, the expedition company guiding Bhagwan's trip. Bhagwan spent two days each at two intermediary points on the climb, said Paudel, though he should have spent only one at each place. Already weak when he climbed to the summit, Bhagwan became totally depleted while descending, said Paudel, who attributed his death both to the traffic and extreme exhaustion. Others who died this year included two other Indians, two Britons, two Irish citizens and two Americans Don Cash of Utah and Christopher Kulish, a 62-year-old attorney from Boulder, Colorado, who died Monday. Two others died while attempting the Tibetan route, according to the Reuters news agency. Some involved in the trekking business said what had unfolded on Everest last week was not abnormal and a reminder of the deadly stakes involved. "If you are setting out on an Everest expedition, it is no less than heading for a war," said Mingma Sherpa of Seven Summit Treks. Climbing Everest is like "attaining the highest pilgrimage," he continued, and sometimes delays are unavoidable. "It is just like waiting for your turn outside a temple." Others saw the traffic as an indication of how climbing Everest has become a commodity, drawing inexperienced thrill-seekers and polluting the mountain with garbage. Seeing the "anxiety-inducing conga line in the death zone," it is "not only dread you sense, but hubris, too," wrote Peter Beaumont in the Guardian. Climbing the world's tallest peak "has become a trophy experience." But Nepali officials are reluctant to curb the number of climbers, who are also an important source of revenue for the country. "The government cannot just say no to the tourists who come to ask for permits," said Meera Acharya, director at the Department of Tourism with responsibility for mountaineering. "Personally, I feel that it is not as much about the number of permits as what kind of climbers we are issuing the permits to." After this year's expeditions are concluded, Acharya said officials would analyze the data and determine how to move forward. The mountain is for every human being, said Purja, the climber attempting to summit 14 of the worlds highest peaks. But it has to be managed properly. Judge Thad Balkman listens during opening arguments for the state of Oklahoma Tuesday, May 28, 2019, in Norman, Okla., as the nation's first state trial against drugmakers blamed for contributing to the opioid crisis begins in Oklahoma. At right is a slide from the state's presentation shown on a monitor. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki) Read more NORMAN, Okla. (AP) Corporate greed is responsible for an opioid crisis that has cost Oklahoma thousands of lives and will take billions of dollars to repair, the state's attorney general told a judge Tuesday at the start of the nation's first state trial against the companies accused of fueling the problem. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter's opened the state's case against consumer products giant Johnson & Johnson and several subsidiaries by saying the powerful painkillers have led to the "worst manmade public health crisis" in U.S. history. The state alleges drugmakers extensively marketed highly addictive opioids for years in a way that overstated their effectiveness and underplayed the risk of addiction. "This crisis is devastating Oklahoma," Hunter said, adding that opioid overdoses killed 4,653 people in the state from 2007 to 2017. Lawyers for Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson say the products the company manufactured were not just legal, but were heavily regulated. Janssen attorney Larry Ottaway told the judge that the drugs are important because they can help people manage debilitating pain. "Serious chronic pain is a soul-stealing, life-robbing thief. It leads to depression. It leads to suicide. People can't take care of their own basic functions," Ottaway said. "You will hear from doctors, who practice right here in Oklahoma, some of those stories." The Oklahoma case is significant because it's the first to go to trial and could help shape negotiations to resolve the roughly 1,500 other opioid lawsuits that have been consolidated before a federal judge in Ohio. Two companies, OxyContin-maker Purdue Pharma and Teva Pharmaceuticals , settled with Oklahoma ahead of the trial. The state also contends two other Johnson & Johnson subsidiaries, Noramco and Tasmanian Alkaloids, were the primary suppliers of the active pharmaceutical ingredients provided to a number of opioid manufacturers, including Purdue and Teva. Oklahoma is suing under a public nuisance claim, alleging it will cost more than $13 billion over 20 to 30 years to abate the opioid crisis. Lawyers for the state say they plan to use internal company documents, including call notes between sales representatives and doctors, to show how Janssen used misleading claims to influence physicians and patients to use opioids. The trial could bring to light documents and testimony that show what the companies knew, when they knew it and how they responded. The state's lawyers also intend to call as witnesses family members of those who have died from taking the drugs, including Craig Box , whose son Austin was a 22-year-old standout linebacker for the Oklahoma Sooners when he died of a prescription drug overdose in 2011. Ottaway pushed back at the idea that doctors were unduly influenced by drug company sales representatives about whether to prescribe opioids for pain. "The doctor has an independent obligation," Ottaway said. "It's not a sales rep's decision." He also said that Janssen's fentanyl patch Duragesic represented only a tiny fraction of the opioid market in Oklahoma and was not widely abused or sold on the street like other drugs. "It has low rates of addiction and low rates of diversion," Ottaway said of the Duragesic patches. "When you hear about pill mills, you don't hear about patches." Cleveland County District Judge Thad Balkman, not a jury, will decide the case. He is allowing cameras in the courtroom, which is a rarity in Oklahoma. ___ Follow Sean Murphy at www.twitter.com/apseanmurphy FILE - In this May 18, 2018, file photo, White House adviser Jared Kushner speaks in the East Room of the White House in Washington. Read more JERUSALEM President Donald Trumps top Mideast advisers face skeptical audiences as they visit several locations in the region and in Europe starting Tuesday to rally support for what they have billed as a workshop on the economic foundations of peace between Israel and the Palestinians. The White House is promoting the June 25-26 meeting in the Gulf state of Bahrain as the first phase of its long-awaited Mideast peace plan, which envisions large-scale investment and infrastructure work, much of it funded by wealthy Arab countries, in the Palestinian territories. But American officials say the Bahrain conference will not include the core political issues of the conflict: borders of a Palestinian state, the status of Jerusalem, the fate of Palestinian refugees, or Israeli security demands. A White House official said the trip, with stops in Morocco, Jordan, Israel, and Europe, is part of our ongoing efforts to achieve peace between Israel and the Palestinians but offered no specifics. The official was not authorized to speak publicly about the meetings and spoke on condition of anonymity. The Palestinians will not attend the Bahrain meeting, rejecting the parameters of the conference, while key American allies Egypt and Jordan have not announced their plans for participation. For now, the Americans are pinning their hopes on wealthy Gulf states, led by Saudi Arabia, hoping their regional influence and deep pockets can make the conference a success. The Saudis, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, along with host Bahrain, have accepted invitations to attend. This has fueled Palestinian jitters that they will come under heavy pressure to accept large sums of money in exchange for freezing or abandoning aspirations for an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip. The deal of the century or the deal of shame will go to hell, with Gods will, and the economic project they are working on next month will go to hell, too, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said this week. Whoever wants to solve the Palestinian issue must start with the political issue, not by selling the illusions of billions [of dollars]. Jared Kushner, Trumps senior adviser and son-in-law, announced the plans for the Bahrain conference last week, saying it would focus on economic issues and investment in the Palestinian territories. The absence of a political horizon has put American allies in the region in a bind. Heavily reliant on the U.S. for political and military support, it is difficult for countries like Jordan to say no to the invitation. But the Palestinian issue resonates deeply with the Arab public and it is difficult for leaders to embrace a plan that does not promise the Palestinians a state. In accepting the invitation to the Bahrain conference, Gulf countries have been careful to express solidarity with the Palestinians but have also signaled flexibility. These countries have forged quiet relationships in recent years with Israel, driven primarily by a shared animosity to Iran. Those concerns, and readiness to engage with Israel, appear to outweigh any sympathies they may feel with the Palestinians. "Dialogue with Israel is a positive thing," Anwar Gargash, the UAE's minister of state for foreign affairs, recently told journalists. "I think this is something that we need to do, but at the same time the dialogue with Israel doesn't mean that we don't disagree with them politically." Palestinian officials have called on Arab countries not to attend the Bahrain workshop. Abbas is expected to step up those calls at a pair of conferences later this week in Saudi Arabia. But changing their minds may be difficult. In a recent editorial, the editor in chief of a Saudi newspaper with close ties to the palace urged the Palestinians to give the Trump plan a chance. "The Palestinians should negotiate hard, and then take what they can to secure a nation state for future generations," Faisal Abbas wrote in the Arab News. "There is nothing to be gained from a refusal to come to the negotiating table." In another important diplomatic breakthrough, Qatar, which has been embroiled in a bitter dispute with Saudi Arabia, has agreed to attend, a possible precursor of a broader reconciliation among Gulf rivals. Beyond the Gulf, the plan appears to face skepticism. Jordan is in an especially sensitive situation. A majority of the population has Palestinian roots, and the kingdom borders the Israeli-occupied West Bank, the heartland of any future Palestinian state. Any perception that Jordan is selling out the interests of the Palestinians would be deeply unpopular and possibly even destabilizing. Ahead of Kushner's arrival, Jordan's foreign minister, Ayman Safadi, indicated he is uncomfortable with the economy-first approach. The official Petra news agency said that in a phone call with his Irish counterpart, Safadi stressed that "any economic plan to handle the consequences of the conflict can't be an alternative to a comprehensive political plan that aims at fulfilling the two-state solution." "Safadi stressed that all efforts for solving the conflict need to begin from the fact that ending occupation is the path for peace," the agency said. Egypt, a key U.S. and Israeli ally that borders Gaza, also has not said whether it will attend. An Egyptian official said businessmen who do business with Israelis might take part in the conference as "individuals." The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss the matter with the media. President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi has repeatedly called for the resumption of Israeli-Palestinian peace talks. Kushners visit to the region started Tuesday in Morocco, a moderate Arab state that has low-level ties with Israel. From there he was to head to Jordan, then Israel, and on to Europe. The European Union has not said whether it will attend the conference, while Russia, another key player in the region, late Tuesday expressed "deep concern" over the gathering. "At this difficult stage, collective efforts to launch Israeli-Palestinian negotiations are needed, rather than unilateral 'deals' of opportunistic nature," Russia's embassy in Israel said on Twitter. After more than two years of work, Kushner's team still has not unveiled its political vision. But his few public statements have indicated they will focus heavily on so-called economic peace while sidelining or ignoring the long-standing Palestinian goal of independence. The two-state solution continues to enjoy the broad support of the international community. Abbas and his autonomy government in the West Bank cut off ties with the White House after Trump recognized contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital in December 2017. Israel captured East Jerusalem in 1967 and annexed it to its capital. Though Trump said his declaration did not determine the citys final borders, the Palestinians saw the move as unfairly favoring Israel. U.S. cuts in aid, and the closure of the Palestinian diplomatic office in Washington, further deepened their suspicions. Saeb Erekat, a top Palestinian official, noted this week that the Palestinians were not even consulted about the Bahrain conference. "Let us be clear," he wrote in the New York Times. "There will be no economic prosperity in Palestine without the end of the occupation." Associated Press writers Jon Gambrell, Aya Batrawy, Mohammed Daraghmeh, and Matthew Lee contributed to this article. Mark D'Amico, left, stands with his attorney, Mark Davis, while entering a not guilty plea during his arraignment on charges including theft by deception at Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly, N.J., on Tuesday, May 28, 2019. Prosecutors allege that D'Amico, his ex-girlfriend, Kate McClure; and a homeless man, Johnny Bobbitt, concocted a nationwide GoFundMe scam that netted $400,000. Read more Mark DAmico, the accused mastermind of a $400K GoFundMe scam that relied on a fictitious Good Samaritan story, pleaded not guilty to theft, conspiracy and related crimes Tuesday in state Superior Court in New Jersey. DAmico, 39, of Florence, stands 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. He said little during a brief hearing in Mount Holly before Judge Terrence Cook after Assistant Burlington County Prosecutor Andrew McDonnell said the state had offered a plea agreement that would carry a five-year prison term. DAmicos lawyer, Mark Davis, said his client rejected the plea offer. McDonnell said the state would reserve judgment on whether to go along with any recommendation made by court staff as to whether DAmico would qualify for an Intensive Supervision Program instead of jail time. The program is available to nonviolent offenders without a prior criminal record and is based on criteria that would determine eligibility. The judge said he was aware DAmico may file a motion to dismiss the charges and set a status hearing for July 8. DAmico, who wore a suit and tie to the hearing, is not in custody, having been granted pre-trial release after the charges were issued. He declined comment after the hearing. Last month, his former girlfriend, Katelyn McClure, 29, of Bordentown, pleaded guilty to conspiracy as part of an agreement that calls for her to face a four-year prison term. She admitted that she and DAmico, befriended Johnny Bobbitt Jr., 36, a homeless veteran, outside a Philadelphia casino in 2017 and made up a story that Bobbitt had offered her his last $20 when she ran out of gas off I-95 in Philadelphia. McClure said in a GoFundMe post and in TV and other media interviews that Bobbitt had been panhandling in an area where her car sputtered to a stop and he came to her aid and walked to a nearby gas station to buy gas for her. McClure admitted to a single charge of theft by deception and agreed to testify against DAmico and Bobbitt. Sentencing in her case is scheduled for June 3. More than 14,000 donors worldwide contributed to the GoFundMe campaign and were led to believe the money would be used to help Bobbitt, a former Marine, get off the streets. The three appeared on national TV and radio shows to promote their Paying It Forward campaign, which went viral over the holiday season. McClure also pleaded guilty to conspiracy related to the case in federal court in Camden and is awaiting sentencing. She said she and DAmico spent much of the money that was raised on vacations, casino gambling, a BMW, two trucks, designer handbags, and other purchases. Bobbitt, a longtime drug addict, was sentenced in Burlington County last month to five years of special probation that requires him to enroll in a court-supervised live-in drug rehabilitation program. If he fails to complete the program, he could be sentenced to five years in state prison with 18 months of parole ineligibility. Bobbitt also agreed to testify against McClure and DAmico at trial. He also was prosecuted by federal authorities and faces an additional six to 30 months in federal prison on a charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering, under his plea arrangement. That term could be concurrent or consecutive to the sentence in state court. Federal prosecutors have declined to say whether DAmico may be charged or whether he is under investigation. Margate police say the crowds of teens who congregate every year did not cause problems as they had in prior years. Police brought trash bags to the beach this year and asked the teens to help out. Reed Sullivan, above, collected 33 bags. Read more MARGATE Just as they did Memorial Day weekends of the last few years, hundreds of teens flocked to Margates beaches and stood around, drinking, well, something out of their Wawa iced tea bottles. But unlike other years, there were no viral videos of Margate police slamming teens to the sand to control them, and the usual crowds roaming around the nearby Wawa, dubbed Club Wa, were manageable, Margate officials said Tuesday. The difference? A stepped-up police and security presence, in which Margate police were stationed at beach entrances from Decatur to Monroe Avenues, rode around on ATVs, and walked the crowd in street (or beach), clothes from the time the teens arrived until they left (mostly in Ubers). Margate police even brought trash bags to the beach Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and asked the young people to clean up after themselves. Some did, including Reed Sullivan, whose work was celebrated by the police department on Facebook. MCPD would like to give a big thanks to our friend Reed! the police department said on its Facebook page in a post liked by more than 700 people. "He saw the trash left behind by some of the beachgoers and decided to do something about it. He spent most of his day Sunday cleaning up and making sure the beaches looked good. This year many of the kids enjoying themselves on the beach took it upon themselves to help clean up, but none as much as Reed. Thanks to Reed, and all the others who helped keep our beaches clean! Sullivan, of Villanova, commented that he filled 33 bags of trash. (thank you guys so much for the trash bags! ended the day filling up 33 bags. thank you guys again for all of the help today, really appreciate it," Sullivan wrote.) Margate Capt. Matthew Hankinson said that the crowds were large all over Margate (and the entire Shore), but that the police did not encounter any undue problems on the beaches frequented by the high school and college-aged kids, most of whom are from the Philadelphia suburbs. We took a different approach, Hankinson said. We interacted with the kids. Theyve had a tradition for schools to come down. We wanted to start a new tradition where everyone enjoys themselves and cleans up afterward. He said many of the teens said they were staying in Airbnbs or in Atlantic City, and there were lines of Ubers and Lyfts waiting along the beaches to take them away. A lot of people coming off the beach were appreciative, he said. All was also relatively calm in Wildwood, another town that in prior Memorial Day weekends had found itself with unwanted national attention from viral video of police encounters with underage drinkers. (See last years notorious arrest of Philadelphias Emily Weinman, still currently banned from Wildwood.) Just a typical Memorial Day weekend, nothing crazy, said Wildwood Commissioner Pete Byron, who noted robust crowds that filled the boardwalk and beaches. People came down in greater numbers than we anticipated, he said. If this is any indication, its going to be a great summer. In Margate, Hankinson said there were just two ordinance violations all weekend, and that in general, the crowds were well-behaved, or at least discreet. The kids arent dumb," he said. Everyones holding a Wawa iced tea bottle. What we know and what we can prove are different. In the digital age, every kids on Snapchat, every kids on Instagram. Around 4 p.m., there was a line of Ubers and Lyfts taking kids all over the place. Commissioner John Amodeo, who said he monitored the situation all weekend both in person and via Margates beach and city webcams (cc: parents) called the weekend incident free despite what many in town believed was the most crowded Memorial Day weekend in memory. With beach patrol headquarters now 13 feet in the air at Decatur Avenue, police had a clear view of the beach and could anticipate any problems before they got out of control, Amodeo said. He said there was one arrest for cannabis, another for an open-container violation in which the person tried to run. What did we do when we were kids? The same thing, Amodeo said. They were a well-behaved crowd. The police did an outstanding job controlling the crowd. This photo provided by CBS3 Philadelphia shows police canvasing the scene of the shooting that left 10 people wounded early Saturday in Trenton. Read more A Trenton man was killed and five other people were wounded late Monday in the second mass shooting in New Jerseys state capital in three days, police said. Early Saturday, 10 people were hurt, two critically, in Trenton when two men fired about 30 shots from a car outside a bar on Brunswick Avenue, police said. The latest shooting occurred about 11:30 p.m. Monday on Walnut Street, about a mile from Saturdays crime scene. Five men and a woman were struck by gunfire in the attack. One man, Unique Anderson, 18, of Trenton, suffered wounds to his head, shoulder, and forearm and was taken to Health Regional Medical Center, where he died a short time later, the Mercer County Prosecutors Office said in a statement. The conditions of the other victims were not immediately released. The prosecutors office said they were a 20-year-old woman, a 19-year-old man and 22-year-old man, all from Trenton; a 20-year-old man from Edgewater Park; and an 18-year-old man from Hamilton. The prosecutors office said the two shootings do not appear to be related. No arrests have been reported in either case. The two shootings came almost a year after a gun battle erupted at a 24-hour arts and music festival in Trenton, killing a suspected gunman and injuring nearly two dozen people. Authorities have said the June 17 shooting stemmed from a neighborhood gang dispute. At least two men have been charged in the violence. The beach in Ocean City May 27, 2019. Ocean City was declared "America's Happiest Seaside Town" by Coastal Living, beating out gorgeous beach town runner-ups in California, Florida, and elsewhere. Read more Memorial Day visitors to Ocean City beamed when asked if the South Jersey town is, in fact, Americas Happiest Seaside Town," a title designated by Coastal Living after its annual nationwide competition. Many werent aware of the title, but they wholeheartedly agreed and were happy to stop and explain why. Sure, Ocean City has white beaches, a two-mile boardwalk, and a sparkling bay under blue skies, but they listed a host of other reasons the town deserves the distinction hands down (even though alcohol sales are banned). Its great; Ive been coming here all my life, like since I was born, said Cynthia Juliana, a hostess at the Dockside Kitchen, who wore a T-shirt that said, fittingly, Dont Be Crabby. Juliana, 19, of Media, Pa., laughed when she heard about the competition and said its true that no one complains when they are in this popular vacation spot. Coastal Living, a website and magazine, bestowed the top honor on Ocean City last year, but the town still holds the crown. The website cited the towns old-fashioned spirit, Victorian bungalows, grand boardwalk, beaches, and the scenic Corsons Inlet at the southern end of the island. Since 2012, Coastal Living has nominated seaside towns based on the number of sunny days really, its tied to a formula their charm, and their vibe, and then asked readers to vote on which ones should be ranked in the Top 10. Since 2012, the only other town in New Jersey to make the cut was Cape May, a contender in 2017. As much as she loves Ocean City, Juliana wanted to set one record straight: I dont believe its always sunny. Still, she couldnt find fault, saying rainy days are good days to go to a movie. Another hostess at the restaurant, Valerie Highley, 21, of Glassboro, said all the things to do are what make Ocean City such a happy place. She listed the boardwalk, delicious pizza at Three Brothers, amusement rides, and beaches, which all put everyone in a good mood. On the boards, visitors flocked to the quaint jewelry and clothing shops and lined up to get soft-serve ice cream, caramel popcorn, and fresh fudge. Smiles were plentiful as customers picked out their salt water taffy flavors at Shrivers and watched workers operate the machines that stretch and pull the taffy and then cut and wrap it before packaging. At the Music Pier, a marquee announced Chubby Checker would be coming in July. At the towns southernmost beach, David Ludwig, 50, who lives nearby in Northfield, was glad Ocean City was getting recognition. He and his wife, Rachel, 51, had just kayaked across Corsons Inlet with their little dogs, Oreo and Scoop, as a warm breeze rippled the water on Monday afternoon. Well, its pretty great here ... its relaxing, a great place to go and just be you and not worry about the problems of the world, he said as they pulled up and settled down on the secluded beach off the inlet. Rachel Ludwig, a preschool administrator, said she enjoys hunting for shells and playing with the dogs on the beach. She also enjoys the Ocean City boardwalk because it is so wholesome, a place where you feel kind of safe, with no alcohol, no addiction, no gambling, and no smoking. Its a great place to take children, she said. Farther up the beach, Olivia Glenn, 50, of Pennsauken, said she came down for a day of fun on the beach with her husband, Kobie, and their three children, ages 2, 9, and 11. We like to play in the sand and put our toes in the water. Its too cold to go in now, she said. She couldnt think of any downside to Ocean City except the flies, she said, flicking off a few that had landed on her head. They are a nuisance every so often when theres a land breeze. Traffic to Ocean City also can be painful, and parking can at times be difficult, but once you arrive, well, its time to just enjoy all thats there. Last Memorial Day, the Glenn family came down for the day, but they had so much fun they decided to stay over because they didnt want it to end. They booked a room at a big tall pink hotel on the boardwalk," the Port-O-Call. "Its so peaceful here, good for unplugging, Glenn said. FILE - Braxton Becker walks as eight more Penn State Beta Theta Pi brothers are arraigned at Centre County Courthouse in in Bellefonte, Pa., Tuesday, May 9, 2019. ( DAVID SWANSON / Staff Photographer ) Read more BELLEFONTE, Pa. A former Pennsylvania State University fraternity brother erased security camera footage from the night a pledge died because he knew it would be damaging, prosecutors told a jury Tuesday as the first trial in the case began. Braxton Becker faces misdemeanor charges of evidence tampering, obstruction and hindering apprehension for his actions after pledge Tim Piazza, a 19-year-old from North Jersey, died in February 2017 after sustaining injuries in a series of falls after a night of drinking and hazing. Beckers lawyer raised questions about what investigators saw when they watched Becker retrieve video from a basement closet in the Beta Theta Pi house, according to the Centre Daily Times. At the time, investigators were photographing the scene. About two dozen former fraternity members face charges related to the Lebanon, N.J., teens death. On Tuesday, State College Police Detective Craig Ripka testified that Becker, 22, was cooperative when investigators arrived two days after Piazzas death to collect all the footage they could get. Months later, however, police noticed there were additional camera angles when they were at the house for an unrelated investigation. Authorities say the FBI was able to recover deleted footage from the night of Piazzas pledge bid acceptance ceremony. Police have said the footage was erased at the precise time on the morning of Feb 6, 2017, that Becker, of Niskayuna, N.Y., had been photographed by Ripka working with the video system. Investigators have said they recovered a text from Becker the day after the pledge bid ceremony and party that said Piazza was technically hazed into drinking that much. Authorities estimate Piazza was given at least 18 drinks in 90 minutes. Piazza sustained severe head and abdominal injuries and was shown on video in agony as he spent the night on a first-floor couch, stumbling and falling on several occasions. Fraternity members found him unconscious in the basement the next morning, but took 40 minutes to summon an ambulance. More than a dozen members of the now-closed fraternity chapter have pleaded guilty, mostly to hazing and alcohol violations. The trial is expected to wrap up by weeks end. A teen playing video games in his bedroom at home in North Philadelphia was struck by a bullet that pierced the wall of his house Monday afternoon, police said. The 17-year-old boy was struck in the left calf by the bullet shortly before 4 p.m., Philadelphia Police said in a news release. The teen, whose identity has not been released, was taken to Temple University Hospital, where he is listed in stable condition. Authorities did not indicate if the projectile was a stray bullet or if the teen may have been targeted. Police said no firearms were recovered and an arrest has not been made in the case. Ria Mar (center), senior staff attorney with the ACLU, hugs Aidan DeStefano, a transgender student who recently graduated from Boyertown Area Senior High School, outside federal court in Philadelphia on May 24, 2018 after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit upheld the district's policy allowing transgender students to use the bathroom of their choice. Aidan DeStefanos mother, Melissa DeStefano, is at left. Read more The U.S. Supreme Court declined Tuesday to consider a challenge to the Boyertown Area School Districts policy allowing transgender students to use restrooms and locker rooms that correspond to their gender identity. In so doing, the justices rejected the latest appeal from a conservative legal organization representing six students who say they felt uncomfortable after spotting transgender teens using the restrooms of their choice. The decision, issued in a one-line order, lets stand a lower-court ruling that has shaped a growing body of law surrounding the question of whether federal statutes protect against discrimination based on gender identity. It also effectively ends a legal fight that has roiled the Berks County school district since 2017. That issue has become more fraught in recent years with President Donald Trumps decision to roll back Obama-era protections soon after he took office. Ria Tabacco Mar, a senior staff lawyer with the American Civil Liberties Union, hailed the Supreme Courts decision. This is an enormous victory for transgender students across the country, said Mar, who intervened in the case on behalf of the Pennsylvania Youth Congress, a coalition of LGBTQ youth leaders. Boyertowns schools chose to be inclusive and welcoming of transgender students. This lawsuit sought to reverse that hard-won progress. Meanwhile, Christiana Holcomb, legal counsel for the Alliance Defending Freedom, the Christian advocacy law firm that represented the suing students, vowed that her firms fight on the issue would continue even if the Boyertown case was over. We hope the Supreme Court will eventually weigh in to protect students constitutional right to bodily privacy, she said. All schools, including [Boyertown], should be providing compassionate support for those dealing with gender dysphoria, but they should do it in a way that protects the privacy of all students. The Supreme Courts decision on Tuesday leaves standing an earlier ruling by a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, which in an unusual move last year issued its decision upholding the policy less than 20 minutes after hearing the arguments of the protesting students. Circuit Judge Theodore McKee said at the time that the students had failed to show that they were irreparably harmed by the school districts policy especially given the steps the Boyertown district had taken to accommodate those who did not feel comfortable sharing facilities with transgender teens. The district implemented its transgender restroom policy in 2016 under Obama-era guidelines that required all federally funded school districts to recognize basic transgender student rights and chose to stick with them after Trump eliminated those standards soon after taking office. To accommodate anyone who was uncomfortable, district officials expanded the number of single-user restrooms, alternative locker rooms, and private stalls across their high schools campus so that any student could use them, instead, if they preferred. Aidan DeStefano, a recent Boyertown graduate and transgender male, described that policy as crucial to his emotional well-being during his high school experience. By the time I graduated, I was using the boys bathroom and participating on the boys cross-country team, he said Tuesday. I felt like I belonged and had the confidence I needed to continue with my education. The six students who filed suit in 2017 argued that the policy effectively forced them into using the alternate facilities a move they described as a form of discrimination. They argued that the only solution was to overturn the policy and return to the status quo a suggestion that seemed to hold little sway with the Third Circuits judges last May. You could have come in here during Brown v. Board of Education and said, Lets go back to the status quo,' McKee told the students lawyers, referring to the landmark Supreme Court decision that struck down racial segregation policies in public schools. These types of cases wouldnt happen if the answer was always, Go back to the status quo. Students gather for a sit-in outside the White House on March 14 to protest inaction on gun violence more than a year after the mass school shooting in Parkland, FL. Read more These are challenging times for those fighting to prevent gun violence and suicide. This spring, we lost two student survivors of the tragedy in Parkland and the father of a child murdered at Sandy Hook. A couple weeks ago, while we do not yet know if it was a suicide, we lost a survivor of the Columbine High School shooting who was open about turning to opioids to dull the pain. In the face of loss, this is a moment to call attention to the connection between firearms and suicide so that we can save lives. Approximately half of all American suicide deaths involve firearms, and nearly two out of every three American firearm deaths is a suicide. To put this in perspective, nearly 24,000 Americans died by suicide using a firearm in 2017, a number large enough to make it one of the top 15 causes of death in the U.S. In fact, more people die by suicide using a firearm than die by homicide by all methods combined. These are difficult conversations. But theyre too important not to have. The national suicide rate has risen by over 30% since 2000, and increased every year since 2005. Clearly, even as the mental-health community continues to make progress on how we treat the issue, our approach to suicide prevention is not working. We need to do something different. The American Association of Suicidology and Brady are working to expand the national conversation on gun violence and suicide prevention. This effort isnt about being for or against firearms. Its simply about doing all we can to prevent suicide. We can respect the rights and culture of firearm owners while also acknowledging the role of firearms in suicide. As a nation, we must rally behind the importance of safe storage of personal firearms. That means keeping guns unloaded, separate from ammunition, in a locked location such as a gun safe or lockbox. For those who want their firearm to be ready at a moments notice, biometric lockboxes that open based on fingerprints and other options allow for relatively quick but not unrestricted access. The presence of a firearm in the home increases the risk for suicide by 300%. That number increases dramatically when the firearm is stored unsafely. Thats why firearms should be stored away from the home when anyone who lives there is experiencing a difficult time emotionally. Its the same as having somebody hold our car keys when weve had too much to drink. Storage options like these also help protect children in the home. Children often know where unlocked weapons are stored even when parents think they are safely hidden. Additionally, Congress must pass evidence-based legislation proven to be associated with lower suicide rates. This doesnt mean overturning the Second Amendment or banning firearms. It means promoting legislation supported by the majority of American firearm owners, like extreme risk protection orders, mandatory waiting periods, permit to purchase laws, and universal background checks. Congress cant solve gun violence on its own, but it has a role to play. It must have the courage to act. Individual states can make a difference as well by passing extreme risk laws, such as the one under consideration in Pennsylvania. These types of orders are often connected to mass shootings, but they play a significant role in allowing family members to temporarily remove guns from a loved one who poses a danger to themselves. There is emerging evidence that states with extreme risk laws have lower suicide rates. Its clear this type of legislation can and will save lives. Many argue that if we stop someone from using a firearm to die by suicide, theyll simply find another way. But research has shown time and again this isnt actually the case. Additionally, firearms are so much deadlier than other methods: 85-95% of all firearm suicide attempts result in death. Suicide attempts by all other methods combined, on average, result in death only 3% of the time. Given that 70% of those who survive a suicide attempt never attempt again, giving somebody that second chance a second chance rarely provided by firearms is vital. In the wake of the recent tragedies in Columbine, Parkland, and Sandy Hook not to mention all those who die by suicide with a firearm every day we must forge a path forward. By having the courage to take on these difficult conversations, we honor the lives of those we have lost, and we protect the lives of those who remain. Michael Anestis, Ph.D., is the cochair of the American Association of Suicidologys Firearms and Suicide Committee and the author of Guns and Suicide: An American Epidemic. Kyleanne Hunter, Ph.D., is vice president of Programs at Brady. Buildings are reflected in the window as WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is taken from court, where he appeared on charges of jumping British bail seven years ago, in London on May 1. Swedish prosecutors plan to decide whether they will reopen a rape case against WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. Read more WASHINGTON Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called WikiLeaks a nonstate hostile intelligence service. Apparently Julian Assange agrees. In its new 18-count indictment of Assange for multiple violations of the Espionage Act, the Justice Department notes that Assange told former Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning that WikiLeaks had originally described itself as an intelligence agency for the people. Now, at long last, the head of that enemy intelligence agency is facing a possible 175 years in a federal penitentiary for his theft of American secrets. The damage Assange has done is unfathomable. In 2010, he exploded what he called his thermonuclear device releasing a tranche of more than a quarter of a million classified State Department diplomatic cables, all unredacted. According to the indictment, those cables included names of persons throughout the world who provided information to the U.S. government in circumstances in which they could reasonably expect that their identities would be kept confidential. These sources included journalists, religious leaders, human rights advocates, and political dissidents who were living in repressive regimes and reported to the United States the abuses of their own government, and the political conditions within their countries, at great risk to their own safety. The indictment cites specific examples of sources WikiLeaks burned inside China, Iran, Iraq, and Syria. Moreover, Assanges decision to release 90,000 Afghanistan war-related activity reports also revealed the identities of at least 100 Afghans who were informing on the Taliban. The indictment quotes a New York Times interview with a Taliban leader who told the paper, We are studying the report. We knew about the spies and people who collaborate with U.S. forces. We will investigate through our own secret service whether the people mentioned are really spies working for the U.S. If they are U.S. spies, then we know how to punish them. Assanges stolen classified documents didnt just find their way to the Taliban; the indictment points out that WikiLeaks copies were also found in Osama bin Ladens compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan. During the raid that killed the al-Qaida leader, U.S. forces recovered a letter from bin Laden to another member of the terrorist organization al-Qaida in which bin Laden requested that the member gather the DoD material posted to WikiLeaks as well as a response from that al-Qaida operative providing him with the secret U.S. government documents Assange had provided. Indeed, Assanges disclosures nearly blew the bin Laden operation. Just one week before the raid, Assange released his "Gitmo files "which contained information that could have tipped off bin Laden that the CIA was closing in on him. One of Assanges stolen documents the file on Abu Faraj al-Libi, al-Qaidas captured operational commander revealed that Faraj had reported on al-Qaidas methods for choosing and employing couriers, as well as preferred communications means; that he had received a letter from UBLs designated courier who was the official messenger between UBL and others in Pakistan; and that in mid-2003, [Faraj] moved his family to Abbottabad, and worked between Abbottabad and Peshawar, Pakistan. The CIA tracked bin Laden down to Abbottabad by following his courier, thanks, in large part, to information provided by Faraj. Had bin Laden read that document detailing what Faraj had told the agency, he could have known that the United States had made the connection between his courier and his Abbottabad hideout. Fortunately, U.S. Special Operations forces did not give bin Laden time to figure it out. The indictment leaves out much of the damage Assange did, such as his 2014 release of classified CIA documents exposing how CIA operatives maintain cover while traveling through airports; his 2016 release of documents detailing European Union military operations to intercept refugee boats traveling to Europe from terrorist-infested regions along the Libyan coast; and his 2016 exposure of top-secret documents describing NSA intercepts of foreign government communications. Some are concerned that the newest Assange indictment will help set a precedent to go after investigative journalists who publish classified information. But as I wrote in 2010, unlike reputable news organizations, Assange did not give the U.S. government an opportunity to review the classified information WikiLeaks was planning to release so they could raise national security objections. So responsible journalists have nothing to fear. Regardless, Assange is not a journalist. He is a spy. The fact that he gave stolen U.S. intelligence to al-Qaida, the Taliban, China, Iran and other adversaries via a website rather than dead-drops is irrelevant. He engaged in espionage against the United States. And he has no remorse for the harm he has caused. He once called the innocent people hurt by his disclosures collateral damage and admitted WikiLeaks might get blood on our hands. Sorry, he does not get to aid and abet our enemies, put countless lives at risk, and then hide behind the First Amendment. The Justice Department is right to indict him for his crimes. Marc Thiessen writes a twice-weekly column for The Washington Post on foreign and domestic policy. He is a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and the former chief speechwriter for President George W. Bush. @marcthiessen The Philadelphia Fire Department runs the busiest EMS services division in the United States. Medic 7 on Market Street runs constantly with little downtime for paramedics and EMTs Read more Whether they are responding to a heart attack or combating the spread of Ebola, we know that first responders and medical professionals perform dangerous work, often under tough circumstances. This month, the Safeguarding Health in Conflict Coalition a group of nongovernmental organizations and university researchers created in 2012 to raise awareness and strengthen documentation of attacks on health put out its latest report. The numbers are staggering: 973 attacks in 23 countries against vaccination workers, paramedics, nurses, doctors, midwives, patients, community volunteers, health facility drivers, and guards. As many as 167 workers died and 710 were injured. Bombings of hospitals and clinics in 15 countries, more than 120 aerial attacks affecting health facilities in Syria, and violence and threats forcing 140 health clinics in Afghanistan to close, all limited the availability of critical medical care. Vaccine outreach workers were attacked in the previous year in Afghanistan, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Pakistan, Somalia, and Sudan. Armed men entered a health facility in the DRC, looted and beat patients, and attacked and raped a nurse. Each attack impedes delivery of health care far beyond the individual incident, disrupting access to care temporarily or permanently. Recent reports from the Ebola crisis in eastern Congo have described unimaginable scenes of health workers being threatened, attacked, and killed. But health workers and first responders are not only at risk in the middle of armed conflict or deadly disease outbreaks. Fire and rescue workers in the United States face injury and assault as well. For both groups, the mental-health impact of emotionally demanding work takes a toll. Whether its climate change, infectious disease outbreaks, or violence, its important to think, and act, globally and locally. First, the thinking part. The phenomenon of health workers and first responders under attack is common, but little studied. Better information on the frequency and types of attacks is needed to document the scale of the problem and the ways workers can be protected. The Safeguarding Health in Conflict Coalition, of which Drexel University is a member, has gained ground in this effort. Additionally, Drexels Center for Firefighter Injury Research and Safety Trends (FIRST), has researched urban fire departments and paramedics, looking at injuries and occupational fatalities. The FIRST Center has identified high risks of assault among paramedics: 14-fold more so than among firefighters. EMS responders were threatened or assaulted by patients, family members, and bystanders. Not only do these responders suffer physical injury, but their rates of burnout are concerningly high and their job satisfaction rates low significantly impairing their ability to perform their lifesaving work. Next, comes the acting part. Translating evidence into policy is critical. Putting the evidence of risks for first responders into action includes creating systems-level checklists for some of the nations busiest EMS-running fire departments (Chicago, Dallas, Philadelphia, and San Diego). Also needed is the development of community paramedicine models of care that provide health services to communities from people they already know and trust. To protect health workers globally also requires expanding trust. Building local relationships can combat the irrational fear and misinformation that can arise in disease outbreaks like Ebola or in tense conflict settings where health personnel maintain impartiality by treating all victims without discrimination. Globally and nationally, these heroic responders are trying to ensure health as a human right. We must continue working beside them to document attacks when they occur and work to prevent the violence and instability they face. Joe Amon is director of the Office of Global Health and Jennifer Taylor is director of the FIRST center, both at Drexel Universitys Dornsife School of Public Health. Demonstrators protesting a Pennsylvania law that doesn't limit how much in gifts state lawmakers may accept from people seeking to influence them are escorted from the House of Representatives' chamber in the state Capitol in Harrisburg, Pa., Monday, May 6, 2019. Read more Like many rites of spring, the annual filing of state lawmakers ethics forms can get the blood moving. Invariably, it engenders amusement and bemusement. For some, it creates the urge to go kick something. And our legislature, a journalists gift that keeps on giving, deserves a good kick on this one. Lawmakers operate, no surprise, under one of the nations laxest ethics laws. In terms of meals, gifts and travel, they can take anything they can get from lobbyists and others if they report it each May to the State Ethics Commission. Members of the good government activist group March on Harrisburg earlier this month protested this legal greed by standing in the visitors gallery of the state House chamber, throwing dollar bills down at lawmakers, and chanting, Stop taking bribes. They were ushered out by Capitol Police. Too bad. Such harassment of legislators is earned and deserved. The Associated Press over the weekend reported that this years filings show lawmakers grabbed more than $83,000 in freebies, including international travel, parties, booze and, in one case, entree to a Philly after-hours club. More on that last one in a bit. The AP highlighted GOP House Majority Leader Bryan Cutler, of Lancaster County, taking $2,000 from the Jewish Federation to help pay for a trip to Israel. And GOP Senate Leader Jake Corman, of Centre County, taking a Penn State alumni award valued at $375, and dinner for himself and family worth about $1,800. Must have included lots of Peachy Paterno ice cream. (You can find any lawmakers filing on the Ethics Commission website: Dont laugh, its ethics.pa.gov. Click on Search e-Library and follow prompts.) I took a closer look at Philly lawmakers. There was Philly Democratic Rep. Jason Dawkins with a $6,500 trade conference trip to Taipei, plus a $1,435 Seattle trip for a conference paid for by the liberal activist group People for the American Way. Philly Democratic Rep. Jordan Harris got AP attention for an $11,400 trip to Israel, lots of concert tickets he gave constituents, and free entry to a club in Philadelphia. The club thing piqued my interest. So, I went to Harris filing. It lists Harris getting $750 from the Manayunk Social Club, 125 S. 2nd St. There is a Manayunk Sport and Social Club at 4245 Main St. in Manayunk. It features adult volleyball, kickball and softball leagues. Whats at 125 S. 2nd Street? That would be the Recess Lounge, a members-only after-hours nightclub offering VIP service, guest DJs and leather seating. Seemed like a reason to chat with Rep. Harris. No, he said, hes not trying to duck his lounge act by listing it differently. He does go to Recess Lounge. And when he does, he pays no cover charge. And, he says, If I have a drink or two, I dont pay for that, either. He says he doesnt list it as Recess Lounge because a personal friend manages the club and is one of its owners. And he stresses that by listing the gift at all hes being overly transparent because lawmakers are not required to list gifts from friends. Fair enough. And another argument for a legislative gift ban. Other Philly filings show Sen. Tina Tartaglione getting $14,700 worth of lunches, tote bags, school supplies, and cases of soda and water for constituency events she held, funded by the likes of Peco, Shop Rite, Einstein Healthcare, Fox Chase Wellness, and Coca Cola. Nice to do stuff for constituents (and feed the soda tax), I guess. Not nice the stuff is paid for by entities whose interests come before the legislature. Sen. Vincent Hughes reports taking $1,336 for an LGBT Arts and Culture Music Festival in Union City, Ga.; Sen. Larry Farnese lists getting $818 from the Philadelphia Academy of Music; and Rep. Jared Solomon discloses taking $300 worth of tickets to the Philadelphia Auto Show. Legislation banning gifts to lawmakers is routinely introduced and proceeds, each session, on its own death march. Gov. Tom Wolf instituted a gift ban for administration employees when he first took office in 2015, and has encouraged a legislative gift ban since. Ive long argued for such a ban. Its good policy. A way to say public service should never include self-service. And it could help get the "kick me: sign off the legislatures back. Councilman Kenyatta Johnson's bill seeks to regulate bay windows and balconies in and around the Point Breeze and Grays Ferry neighborhoods. An example of such bay windows are pictured in Point Breeze. Read more After coasting to an easy victory last week in what was expected to be a competitive and potentially groundbreaking Democratic primary election, City Councilman Kenyatta Johnson returned to Council just two days later with his eyes set on regulating new construction in his fast-gentrifying district a contentious subject that was seen as a key issue in his primary race. Johnson, who represents much of South Philadelphia, introduced a bill during City Councils May 23 session that would ban balconies and bay windows across Point Breeze and Grays Ferry. The two architectural features would still be allowed outside of those two neighborhoods, but according to the bill, the distance from which they can project from a building would continue to be regulated. Johnsons legislation comes amid unprecedented change in his district, which stretches from the fast-gentrifying neighborhoods of Graduate Hospital and Point Breeze, to areas farther south and west, including the Navy Yard and Eastwick. Thousands of new rowhouses have been built, adding taller and showier structures to older and modest rowhouse blocks. The boxy, bump-out bay windows that Johnson aims to legislate have become a well-known architectural feature of Philadelphias construction boom, just as aluminum siding and roof decks have. For some homeowners in the market for newly constructed homes, balconies and bump-out bay windows offer two things that a traditional rowhouse cant: additional space and light. Other people see these architectural features as a defining symbol of gentrification bringing with it anxieties about cost-of-living increases and displacement. And yet others worry that the features disrupt the appearance and character of older blocks. Bay windows "are absolutely reflective of the change that has happened in that [area] in the last 15 years or so, said Patrick Grossi, advocacy director for the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia. They are an icon of that change, and maybe for a lot of people, they are an icon of unwelcome change. Historically known for their curved outward projection, bay windows have long been a defining characteristic of Philadelphia architecture, often appearing in West Philadelphia Victorians, for example, or South Philadelphia rowhouses. (In the latter neighborhood, bay windows are well-known for their holiday displays.) Johnsons legislation is instead more likely targeted at the large, boxy bay windows that have appeared citywide in recent years, jutting out from the sides of new rowhouses built in South Philadelphia, the River Wards, West Philadelphia, and elsewhere. Development tensions have become especially pronounced in South Philadelphia, where the population has grown wealthier and whiter in recent years. Graduate Hospital, for example, the neighborhood in Johnsons district that is bounded by South Street, Washington Avenue, Broad Street and the Schuylkill, saw average incomes rise from about $60,000 in 2006 to nearly $91,500 in 2017. The neighborhoods African American population has plummeted from roughly 80 percent in 1990 to 33 percent in 2014. Meanwhile, development pressures have stretched farther south. Point Breeze also has seen incomes rise, though much more modestly than Graduate Hospital, its neighbor directly to the north. Earlier this year, several properties either belonging to or associated with Ori Feibush, a Point Breeze developer, were vandalized. Those incidents came roughly two years after a fire was set to four townhouses he was building; that was later ruled an arson. Development tensions such as these were viewed as a central issue in the 2nd District primary, in which Johnson faced Graduate Hospital resident Lauren Vidas as a challenger. Vidas, a white lawyer and lobbyist, including for the soda industry, told The Inquirer she was running to prevent the displacement of longtime residents and to ensure that the district develop fairly and transparently. Johnson, who has represented the district for eight years, was born and raised in Point Breeze, and made that fact a fundamental part of his campaign, with the motto, From Here. For Here." Among other goals, he promised to fight for property tax relief. Yet Johnsons time as a councilman has been plagued by periodic scandal, and his opponents have accused him of abusing his political clout in a way that conflicts with his promises to keep his district affordable. In 2016, a jury awarded Feibush, the Point Breeze developer, $34,000 in a civil case that accused Johnson of blocking Feibushs attempts to buy two city-owned lots after he announced plans to run against Johnson in 2015. And multiple Inquirer investigations have found that Johnson steered the sales of city-owned lots to a friend, who, despite promising to build affordable housing on some of the lots, ended up pricing the houses at $400,000 and more. Even so, Johnson managed to win last weeks primary election handily, capturing nearly 60 percent of the vote. Johnson also managed to win with wider margins in the neighborhoods including Point Breeze, Grays Ferry, and West Passyunk. Johnson was not available for an interview Friday or Tuesday morning. In a statement provided by his communications director, Johnson said the legislation is designed to better preserve the neighborhoods in his district. Some developers are putting bay windows past the property line [and] encroaching on the sidewalk/streets space," Johnson said in the emailed statement. This practice is inconsistent with the character of many of South Philadelphias historic rowhouse blocks, so the legislation is designed to ensure the historical preservation of the facades and character of the residential blocks. His legislation, if passed as is, would take effect immediately and would apply across Point Breeze and Grays Ferry. Outside of those designated neighborhood boundaries, all existing rules surrounding balconies and bay windows stand. For example, outside of those neighborhoods, a developer could build a balcony or bay window that extends four feet, but only if that building is set back from its property line. Claudia Smith Sherrod, a Point Breeze resident and the former executive director of South Philadelphia H.O.M.E.S., a social services nonprofit in the neighborhood, said that she views the balconies and bay windows bill as largely positive, and that neighbors have grown increasingly concerned about development that intrudes onto sidewalk space. A lot of [the development] going on is too large for the block that its being built on, Sherrod said. Theres no real consideration for the people who live on the block or the character of the block. Feibush, who has built multiple properties in Johnsons district, called Johnsons legislation a pointless bill that will just fill the [Zoning Board of Adjustment] with a few more cases each year. Hes also 10 years late to the party with this one, Feibush said in a text message, adding that if the concern is neighborhood aesthetics, Johnson should instead focus on introducing legislation that would require new homes to match the second-story cornice line, meaning the horizontal molding, on blocks with already intact cornices. Johnsons proposed bill comes roughly six months after he introduced a bill that would make it harder to build three-story houses in some sections of Point Breeze and Grays Ferry. That bill remains held in committee. In this June 19, 2017 a severe-thunderstorm moves through the region during evening drive time along the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge. Read more The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for part of the Philadelphia region as a line of thunderstorms with the potential to spawn twisters bears down on the area. The storms are remnants of a weather system that led to tornadoes in the Midwest. The watch, which is in effect until 10 p.m., covers most of Pennsylvania and Gloucester, Camden, Burlington, Warren, Hunterdon, and Mercer Counties in New Jersey. The National Weather Service said the storms expected Tuesday afternoon and evening could have locally damaging winds and large hail. A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in and close to the watch area. Overall, the short work week looks like it will be mostly wet, with showers or thunderstorms in the forecast through Friday morning. In an updated hazardous weather outlook statement, the weather service said, Scattered strong to severe thunderstorms are possible late in the day both Wednesday and Thursday. The daytime high temperatures will be around 81 degrees Tuesday, in the mid 80s Wednesday and Thursday, and in the upper 70s on Friday, according to the weather services forecast. It should be mostly sunny with a high around 80 on Saturday, but theres a chance of showers and thunderstorms again Sunday. Top Pair Podcast 335: Interview with Brad Owen May 27, 2019 Robbie Strazynski In episode 335 of the Top Pair Home Game Poker Podcast, Bruce Briggs and Robbie Strazynski welcome poker vlogger Brad Owen to the show. He speaks of his introduction to poker via home games with his brother and the good old days as a teenager playing at poker rooms on Native American reservations. Of course, we dive into his poker vlogging life, what makes his style unique, and what he loves about the MUGs (meet up games) that he co-hosts with fellow poker vlogger Andrew Neeme. Plus, new installments of the shows Its in the Cards and Table Talk segments, Bruce and Robbie sharing their latest home game recaps, and a One Outer that figure(ine)s to get you a good chuckle. Top Pair thanks their sponsor, the Poker Notes Live mobile app, for their support. Be sure to check it out! Show Time Stamps 00:24 Synopsis 1:0515:58 How Ya Runnin? Bruce: Making a solid $45 over two home game sessions. Breaking down what Erics game is all about, six-handed for three hours; one orbit of every single game in the mix, according to a set pattern of flop games, followed by draw games, and finally stud games.. 6:25 Email from a listener, Ron from South Carolina, sharing a game called action razz that he plays at the well-known BARGE poker gatherings in Las Vegas. Robbie: Finally got a local home game, because we planned for it one week in advance. Nice mini-mixed game: Holdem, PLO, PLO8, Stud, Stud8, 2-7 Single Draw, SHOP, and 2-7 Triple Draw. Unfortunately lost, but grateful to have gotten some good preparation in prior to entering the $1,500 Dealers Choice, as well as all the run bad out of the way. 12:30 Busy preparing lots of World Series of Poker-oriented content ahead of my trip to Las Vegas, including 50 Tips for the 50th Annual WSOP. 16:42 Its In the Cards with Tom Wheaton of Faded Spade Playing Cards: Playing cards paper or plastic? Why 100% plastic playing cards are best for the home game. 21:46 Table Talk with George Chao of BBOPokerTables: Digging into the nitty gritty of qualitative differences among various types poker chips. Dont forget to use the coupon code TOPPAIR for a discount and free upgrades when ordering your poker table products. 31:351:01:38 Look Who Weve Found (Interview with Brad Owen) 32:48 Brad talks about his poker beginnings, as a teenager in high school, playing $3/6 limit with his old brother and his buddies. Giving professional poker a shot after satelliting into the Main Event in 2010. Going broke in 2012, building his way back up to starting to play professionally full time in 2015. 34:22 Brad reflects on the success he experienced when he first started playing, winning more often than losing, and what he loved about poker that made him want to pursue it. Playing in Native American poker rooms about an hour away from the University of San Diego, where he was studying for a degree. 36:58 Does Brads background as a CPA and crunching numbers help him at the table? Also, always feeling its important to share with people what it was like to go broke; being a pro isnt as glamorous as it seems and its really difficult to succeed. More thoughts on Las Vegas being a tough city for single guys. Lows of not being prepared to handle the higher cost of living in California. 40:05 What Brad loves and finds most challenging about playing poker full-time as a professional. 42:16 A video Brad made where he revealed his exact net earnings from playing poker. Why hes chosen to be so open, and if it was easy for him to share all those private details. 47:25 Does Brad feel that having had real jobs in the real world, now that hes in a good place playing poker professionally and as a popular vlogger, was important in retrospect? 48:25 Brad reflects on having hit 100,000 YouTube subscribers, how all the grinding and editing of videos has been worthwhile, and how he stays motivated. 50:22 Whats unique about Brads vlogging style versus other poker vloggers? 52:27 How Brad first met Andrew Neeme and hwo the two ended up becoming business partners in the MUGs venture. 54:44 Brad reflects on the success of MUGs. Whats it like meeting all the fans? 56:34 When will the first non-Holdem MUGs happen? The people wanna play mixed games! 58:26 Brads plans for the 2019 WSOP. Any meet-up games on the horizon? Will he be firing in tournaments or sticking to cash games? 1:01:03 Subscribe to Brads YouTube channel and follow him on Twitter. 1:02:20 One Outer Figurines at the poker table?! You can subscribe to PokerNews Top Pair Home Game Poker podcast on iTunes here, or you can access the RSS feed here. Follow hosts Bruce Briggs @toppair and Robbie Strazynski @cardplayerlife, also available via email: [email protected] 2.6k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Biden waited for Air Force One to touch down on US soil and then unloaded on the president for siding with Kim Jong-un in attacking the former vice president. Joe Biden delivers the perfect response to Trump siding with Kim Jong-un The Biden campaign said in a statement, The Presidents comments are beneath the dignity of the office. To be on foreign soil, on Memorial Day, and to side repeatedly with a murderous dictator against a fellow American and former Vice President speaks for itself. Bidens response was perfect. The former vice president showed dignity and respect for the presidency that has been missing since Trump was elected. His response highlighted Trumps biggest weakness, which is his lack of character, and established Joe Biden as the defender of American democracy and values that are under attack from Donald Trump. Joe Biden isnt going to get into Trumps social media slap fights. He is also not going to let Trump dictate the timing of conversations. Trump is used to popping off and placing his opponents on the defensive. Trump is erratic and impulsive. Joe Bidens campaign appears to be more surgical and patient. The Biden campaign is doing something that has never been done with Trump before. They arent letting the president hijack the conversation. They respond on their terms, and their response always contains the message that it is time for America to do better and return to normal. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 1.5k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard House Judiciary Democrats are demanding an investigation into the deaths of migrant children in US custody due to Trumps immigration policies. Democrats demand investigation in child migrant deaths in US custody House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), along with Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship Chair Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Immigration and Citizenship Vice Chair Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), and House Judiciary Vice Chair Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA) demanded a DHS investigation: Due to the seriousness of this tragedy and the many questions that remain, we request you initiate an investigation into this incident, as well as the four other deaths in CBP custody over the last few months. The investigation should assess CBP policies or practices, training curricula, staffing, and potential systemwide errors that may have contributed to the childrens deaths. The investigation should also identify policies and practices designed to protect health and safety and whether they were employed, as well as policies and practices that may be unnecessarily exposing children and families to particularly harsh terrain. For example, the Department of Homeland Security Inspector General issued a report in September of 2018 describing the impact of CBPs policy of turning away asylum seekers.[2] That report concluded that the practice of turning away asylum seekers at international bridges and limiting the volume of asylum-seekers entering at ports of entry may have caused an increase in unauthorized crossing attempts.[3] One asylum seeker interviewed by the Office of Inspector General stated that she had been turned away three times by an officer on the bridge before deciding to take her chances on illegal entry.[4] These facts are particularly troubling considering clear instructions from former Secretary Nielsen that asylum seekers should present themselves at ports of entry instead of crossing between the ports.[5] The investigation should also examine the appropriateness of holding children in Border Patrol stations, which were designed to hold adults, and not children, for no more than 72 hours. In December, you appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where you testified that CBPs short-term holding cells are incompatible with increased migration of family units and unaccompanied children. You added that [o]ur Border Patrol stations were built decades ago to handle mostly male single adults in custody, not families and children.[6] As part of the Fiscal Year 2019 DHS appropriations bill, the agency was given $415 million for humanitarian relief, specifically for medical care, transportation, and improvements to CBP processing centers along the border.[7] We are concerned that these funds may have not been adequately used to address systemic issues that have contributed to the death of asylum-seeking children. The fact that deaths have continued to occur three months after such funding was issued is troubling. DHS had not had a child die in custody over the last ten years until December 2018. Since December, six children have died. The change that led to these deaths was the cruelty of the Trump administration toward migrant children. Trump sees punishing children as a deterrent to keep their parents from trying to come to the United States. It is not working. Trump has manufactured a crisis on the border, and children are dying. There is blood on Trumps hands, and Democrats are not going to allow those kids to be forgotten. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 883 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard This is one of those polls that will yank you from side to side until youre dizzy and sick. In other words, a Trump news story. But this one has an important clue for Democrats heading into 2020 and that is, run a Democrat who can beat Trump on character. Gallup is urging this, in what seemed like very specific instructions on how to beat Trump at the end of their poll analysis. The sick part: More Americans today believe Trump has the personality and leadership qualities a president should have than thought so two years ago, although that still represents a minority of the public. Gallup notes, In contrast, roughly six in 10 Americans thought George W. Bush and Barack Obama had the right presidential characteristics at a similar point in their presidencies. Neither Obama nor Bush ever had ratings lower than 49% during their presidency. Trump is at a personal high with 40%. The April 17-30 Gallup poll finds Trumps character continues to be a weakness for him, especially given the generally strong ratings of his predecessors on the same question. In fact, neither Obama nor Bush ever had a rating lower than 49% during their presidencies. This poll was taken a few weeks after Attorney General Barr misled the public with a false summary of the Mueller report that put Trump in the best light possible, that he later walked back and claimed wasnt actually a summary of the report. The public didnt get a glimpse of what the report actually said until April 18, when the redacted report was published. But even key Republicans on important committees havent bothered to read it, and the public has been widely misinformed and deliberately misled about the key findings. It wasnt until Saturday, May 18th that the first Republican lawmaker, Michigan Rep. Justin Amash, said Trump committed impeachable offenses based on the Mueller report. Amash later said that several Republicans had told him they privately agreed with him, and that they needed to actually read the Mueller report after hearing his comments. Gallup took the results of their poll to indicate that Democrats need to nominate someone who is perceived as having a strong character if they want to beat Trump: Democrats can enhance their odds of beating Trump in 2020 by nominating a candidate who is perceived as having a strong character. That is something they did not do in 2016 when Hillary Clinton was the Democratic nominee. She, like Trump, was widely thought to be dishonest and untrustworthy, thus negating one of Trumps obvious weaknesses and making character less of a factor in voters decision-making processes. They left out that Hillary Clinton was perceived to be dishonest and untrustworthy because the media portrayed her that way by making a huge deal out of her emails, when almost every Republican who ran for the presidential nomination and had executive experience had done the same thing, and furthermore the DNC emails were hacked by the Russians and the mainstream media then published those emails and turned them into the story. Furthermore, as evidenced in the Mueller report, the Russians interfered in the publics perception of Hillary Clinton, by attacking her from the left and right on social media. Its important to call the media out on this level of dishonesty because they gave us Donald Trump with their both sides, neo-Nazis have a point too approach. Gallup continued by warning that if Democrats nominate someone too far to the left they will elevate issues in the campaign and that will help Trump, Democrats also must be careful not to nominate a candidate who is perceived as out of the mainstream on issues. Doing so could elevate issues as a voting factor and work to Trumps advantage if more voters say they agree with Trump than the Democratic candidate on the most important issues. The truth is, issues rarely get any public attention in campaigns. People go with their guts, and this means they go with the charismatic person, the person who moves them personally and emotionally. That is why our elections are so easy to hack by interfering via social media emotion is easy to manipulate. Even if Democrats elect the most mainstream person on issues, that person will need to be able to capture the publics attention and earn their trust inherently. It is a wonder that Trump got elected at all with such a low character rating. Is this person presidential is usually the first hurdle that has to be overcome to sell oneself as possible presidential material. 879 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Anyone who thinks Donald Trump hasnt changed America is not paying attention. Trump is consolidating power before our eyes. Only the House of Representatives and the courts, for the most part, bear a resemblance to institutions that continue to fight for the American democracy we knew. The daily press briefing became a propaganda session under Trumps Press-Secretary, Sarah Sanders. Ethical standards are routinely violated by virtually everyone on Trumps staff. Under William Barr, the Department of Justice became Donald Trumps personal law firm. Mitch McConnells Senate behaves more like Trumps employees than an independent part of a co-equal branch of government. The House of Representatives is empowered with oversight under the Constitution. Its a power that Trump is trying to wrestle away from the House. The courts are being packed with Trump loyalists who dont want to admit that Brown v. Topeka Board of Education is settled law. Even the Supreme Court is packed with two Trump loyalists chosen by the Federalist Society. They join the conservative coalition of Alito, Thomas and Roberts as the swing vote, Yet, as legal analysts, like MSNBCs Glenn Kirschner say, the courts are the guardrail between our democracy and Donald Trumps tyranny. I felt like, you know what, the state of the judiciary is strong, he said. And once the Congress can get these matters before judges, judges will not endure or endorse a runaway administration or a criminal president. You know, they are really going to be governed by the rule of law regardless of whether they were appointed by Republican presidents or Democratic presidents. Trumps policy fared badly in the courts over the past couple of years. As of March, the Trump administration lost in 63 court cases. Its why he has packed the lower courts with 112 Trump loyalists. Its why he attacks the character, integrity and, when the opportunity arises, the ethnic background of a judge who rules on the law instead of on Trumps whims. In the days before the Memorial Day weekend, there were several reports that Trump intended to pardon convicted and accused war criminals over the Memorial Day weekend. Because Trump already pardoned a war criminal, this story was plausible. Such pardons mock the very spirit of the day we pay tribute to people who died defending our freedoms and our democracy. Trump may admire people who gun down civilian women and children in the street. He might even call them war heroes. My war heroes dont commit war crimes though they might be victims of them, like the late Senator John McCain. The fact that Trump insults the memory of our war dead by pardoning war criminals on Memorial Day weekend is disconcerting in another way. Trump made it clear on Friday that he would decide on pardons after trials are completed. Really, the pardons are a signal of Trumps possible intent to nullify any and every verdict he doesnt like. Pardoning war criminals would definitely announce to the world that it is free to violate the rights of our soldiers in return. Its telling rogue states they wont face consequences for torturing American civilians. Of course, we already know that from the way Trump denied Kim Jong Uns culpability for the torture and death of American student, Otto Warmbier. All that is bad enough, but the pardons tend to demote courts from their rightful place as a co-equal branch in our constitutional order. This figures into Trumps general aims of persecuting non-whites in general and most immigrants in particular. We know Trump is comfortable with degrading and humiliating treatment when he fires the DHS Secretary because putting babies in cages and watching 6 asylum seeking children die in our custody wasnt tough enough. This is while media reports in horror and Democrats dig for the buried facts about the demeaning and abusive treatment intended to strike fear in all immigrants but especially refugees and asylum seekers. Making themselves enemies of Trumps anti-immigrant program, the courts push back on Trumps Muslim ban, on his wall, on his effort to financial penalize sanctuary cities and on every other unconstitutional and immoral policy of the past two and a half years. Trump is trying to condition us into accepting crimes against humanity when the victims are brown and arrive at the southern border. Part of it may involve discrediting courts who recognize that cruel and inhumane treatment of brown people is a crime regardless of their citizenship and regardless of their immigration status. The framing of Trumps possible pardon of convicted war criminals suggests someone is orchestrating a long game with the pardon power that slowly but surely conditions us into believing the presidency is the highest court in the land and the Judicial Branch is subservient. Under this framing, the speculation about pardoning war criminals on Memorial Day weekend makes perfect sense. Trump was never going to preemptively pardon the likes of Erik Princes henchman over the Memorial Day weekend. But putting it out there means people would subconsciously equate war criminals with the people who sacrificed their lives to defend our values, our freedoms, our laws and our democracy. If or when there is a conviction by a legitimate court, Trump will whine about the injustice of convicting someone who shot a civilian woman dead on a public street in broad daylight. Hell demonize the court and possibly the jurors, and if he can find a way to blame Obama, Hillary or Nancy Pelosi, he will. It will be another in a series planted seeds intended to smear the courts as part of a conspiracy against Trump and his fellow fascists. Food editor and chief critic Eating all of the chicken livers just as fast as I can. By IMT Online, May 26, 2019 Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., plans to enjoy ice cream with New Hampshire voters to celebrate Memorial Day. He won't be far from former Rep. John Delaney, D-Md., another presidential candidate, who's in the midst of his 19th trip to the state and plans an itinerary that includes four barbecues, one parade and a wreath-laying. In Iowa, Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., is rolling through the cornfields in an RV, while Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., unveils a "Family Bill of Rights" and tours an ethanol plant. 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. Jerrel Floyd is an Alabama raised reporter who covers Summerville and Dorchester County for The Post and Courier. David Slade is a senior Post and Courier reporter. His work has been honored nationally by Society of Professional Journalists, American Society of Newspaper Editors, Scripps foundation and others. Reach him at 843-937-5552 or dslade@postandcourier.com Paul Bowers is an education reporter and father of three living in North Charleston. He previously worked at the Charleston City Paper, where he was twice named South Carolina Journalist of the Year in the weekly category. Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations. 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 Partly cloudy skies. High around 75F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Mainly clear. Low 63F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. It all started in 1979 with the kind of sales pitch that seems, in hindsight, questionable at best: "Hey, everyone! You should give us money so we can build a house to be used by people you dont know who have no ties to Rochester!" But that pitch led by the late Phil Henoch, a longtime owner of the areas McDonalds restaurants was to build a home for families with seriously ill kids. Kids who would be facing hospital treatments for weeks, even months. Kids who needed a place to stay with their families. "We thought it would be a tough sell," Phil told us in 2009. "We were asking Rochester people to support something that no one from Rochester would ever use. But, oh, how people responded. Ive never been so proud of a community in my life." In 1980, the group opened the 12-bedroom Northland House. By 1995, the home by then an official Ronald McDonald House featured 24 guest rooms. Last week following a capital campaign the recently expanded RMH cut the ribbon on what is now a 70-room facility capable of serving more than 1,200 families per year. ADVERTISEMENT More than 1,600 individuals donated. They raised more than $17 million. The numbers are impressive. But its still all about the kids. Just go to the RMH website, where Communications Director Jacob Dreyer collects (and writes) stories about parents and their kids. Kids like Jack, who was born at 24 weeks (and one pound, 11 ounces). Who was described by his doctors as not just a "day by day" case, but "hour to hour." Who spent 151 days in the NICU. Jacks parents got to stay at RMH for 149 of those days. And RMHs proximity to Saint Marys mattered. When Jack was three weeks old, his parents got a 3 a.m. call from Jacks doctors. A collapsed lung, they were told. Youd better get down here. They ran out the door of RMH. Got to the hospital in time to hold Jack for the first time ever as doctors moved him from one ventilator to another. "We were prepared to say goodbye to our baby boy," said Jacks mom, Kaycee. But Jack survived that hour, then another. Later that year, he celebrated his first Christmas outside the NICU. "The house is a happy memory, even though it was a really trying time," said Kaycee. "You dont truly know what it means until youre in that situation." And kids like Ruth, a teenager who came to Mayo with persistent leg pain. Tests revealed she had cancer. Ruth and her family would be in Rochester for the long haul. After a two-week stint on the RMH waiting list, Ruths family moved into a room on the day before Thanksgiving. Ruth, who hadnt been eating much, woke up with an appetite a Thanksgiving day-craving for turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans and pumpkin pie. ADVERTISEMENT For 20-plus years, the Wilson family has been serving Thanksgiving meals to kids and families (and those on the waiting list) at RMH. So that Thanksgiving, hundreds of miles from home and in the middle of cancer treatments, Ruth and her family including relatives visiting from Michigan, Ohio, and Alaska ate dinner together. "I was crying as I ate my pumpkin pie," said Ruth. "It was the biggest blessing ever. I was so worried that my family wouldnt have a special Thanksgiving because of me." And kids like Faith, a 15-year-old girl with special needs who required a liver transplant to survive. When a liver became available the parents of 15-year-old Logan donated their sons organs after he died from an ATV accident Faith finally got her transplant. Eventually, Logans parents reached out to Faiths family. But Faiths mom, Jeannie, was afraid to return the message. Afraid that Logans parents would be disappointed that their sons liver had been given to a girl with special needs. "I was scared to death," said Jeannie. They finally met. "Our families bonded instantly," said Logans mom, Wendy. "Jeannie showed me Faiths incision and said, Your DNA is a part of my daughter, so she is your daughter, too." "We became a family," said Jeannie. Just like, she says, the way they became a family with RMH. "Walking through the front doors (of the Ronald McDonald House) is like walking into a completely different world. You feel loved. It is home. The staff and volunteers are our family." ADVERTISEMENT A home and a family funded by locals. Used by people we dont know. For more stories written by Jacob Dreyer and others (including family members), check out the RMH blog, at rmhmn.org/blog . A Southeast Rochester retail complex on a high profile corner sold for $2.25 million earlier this month. The Marion Business Centerat 1217 Marion Road SE was sold to Moose Enterprises LLC, based at 1105 10th St. SW in Rochester, on May 16. It was sold by Marion SE LLC,which is based at 1770 75th St. NE. The 9,200-square-foot center was developed by a local group of investors that includes contractor Bryan Schoeppner. It was built in 2014. Its tenants include Toppers Pizza, Glo Nails, Metro PCSand Brava Restaurant. Olmsted County estimates the total market value for the property at $1.15 million for 2018-2019. ADVERTISEMENT Biz buzz A downtown Med City property also recently sold for $1.2 million, though the sale is just a step in the process to develop a proposed apartment complex. The empty 2,772-square-foot building at 324 First Ave., the former home of Gallery 24/The Creative Salon, was purchased by 988 Rochester LLCof Wayzata on April 29. The seller was Minneapolis-based 324 1st Avenue SW LLC. The property is on the northeast corner of First Avenue Southwest and Fourth Street. The buyer is an entity owned by Detailed Management Co.of Wayzata. DM Co. is working with North Rock Real Estateto build a 50-unit complex on the site to be called 324 Apartments. GREENLEAFTON - Two tornadoes that came up through Iowa caused damage to at least four Southeast Minnesota farmsteads Monday. For Les Prinsen, the tornado that took down his machine shed caused a level of destruction he hadnt experienced in his eight decades of life. Prinsen, who lives south of Greenleafton on Fillmore County Road 9, said he was in his basement when the storm hit. It was loud, and lasted less than a minute. A preliminary summary of the storm posted by the National Weather Service in La Crosse, Wis., noted that strong thunderstorms produced two tornadoes, one near Charles City, Iowa, and one near Lime Springs, Iowa. Both storms moved north-northeast and ended in Fillmore County. An EF-0 tornado touched down in Greenleafton around 1:54 p.m. and reached a peak wind speed of 85 mph, according to the national weather service. The tornado traveled three miles and had a maximum width of 25 yards. Greenleafton is approximately 11.5 miles southwest of Preston. Fillmore County Sheriff John DeGeorge said by email Monday that at least three tornadoes were reported to have touched down in western Fillmore County the first, confirmed at 1:39 p.m., had traveled from Howard County in Iowa, northeast through York Township. ADVERTISEMENT "At least four farm sites sustained damage to buildings," DeGeorge wrote. "The sheriffs office has received no reports of injuries to people or livestock. Some homes sustained minor wind and tree damage." Fillmore County Emergency Management Officials will work to evaluate storm damage, DeGeorge said. Hours after the storm had blown through, more than a dozen people were on Prinsens property helping clear branches and downed trees, and to move loose boards and roof sheeting off of the equipment in the now-damaged machine shed. The group also helped to collect shed material that ended up in nearby fields. South of Prinsens farm, the property of Scott Hendrickson and his wife, Laurie, also was hit. The couple had been watching TV and at first didnt know anything was headed their way. But after turning on a local channel, they realized theyd "better pay attention," Hendrickson said. The couple made their way to the basement. "All I saw was a bunch of wind. We heard stuff hitting the house and then all of a sudden it was over with," Scott Hendrickson said. He said the trees on the couples acreage are "pretty much junk" and the storm took down part of a shed and a small barn. The home lost electrical power. The Hendricksons have a generator. In the nearly 18 years the Hendricksons have lived on the property, Hendrickson said hes not seen a storm this bad. ADVERTISEMENT "Weve lost a couple of trees before, nothing like this," he said. Heavy rain and the threat of severe weather couldnt keep some away from honoring those who sacrificed their lives for their country. More than two dozen people attended a Memorial Day program at the Solders Field Veterans Memorial. Among them was Rob Holland, a 30-year Army veteran. Holland, who moved from Texas to Rochester last year, said his youngest brother, Daniel, was killed in action while serving in Iraq in May 2006. "Im grateful to all the soldiers who have served, especially those who served abroad," Holland said. "Im here to honor him (Daniel) and all the soldiers who died while in service for our country." Heidi Haugen attended the ceremony with her parents and her brother. She came in from Somerset, Wis., with the intention of seeing her dad ride in the parade with other Korean War veterans, but the parade was canceled. Following the ceremony, Haugen spent some time looking for her fathers marker among the memorials pavers. Storms cancelled the planned procession from Central Park along First Avenue to the memorial and Mayor Kim Nortons speech. However, Norton did post her speech on Facebook. ADVERTISEMENT In her speech, Norton recalls her own experience as the mother of a service member who served overseas and noticing those homes displaying a flag with a blue star. "I learned that each blue star on the flag represents a service member on active duty," Norton wrote. "As the mother of an active duty, deployed Airman at that time, I felt a sense of camaraderie with these families ... they understood my pride, but also my anxiety of having a son deployed overseas." Most families stars stayed blue, Norton noted, but some were replaced with gold ones when a service member was killed in action or died in service. Norton remembers three servicemen who died in military service Army Spc. Travis R. Bruce, Marine Lance Cpl. Curtis M. Swenson and Army Sgt. Nicholas M. Dickhut. "Today, we offer our love and support to the grieving families who will forever feel the loss for their loved ones bravery and service," Norton concluded her speech. "Today, we let you know that in our collective hearts they will never be forgotten." Nearly 19,000 Minnesotans lost their lives in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Persian Gulf War, according to numbers published in the "American War and Military Operations Casualties: Lists and Statistics" report published in September 2018 by the Congressional Research Service. Minnesota Public Radio News reported in December 2015 that almost 100 military personnel with Minnesota connections have died in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan since the onset of hostilities that followed the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. A more recent number could not be found. Records from the National Archives Defense Casualty Analysis System only go until 2006. Later in the day, about a dozen people attended the ceremony on the Center Street Bridge honoring those who were buried at sea. At the cemetery in Marion, Marilyn Allen and about 10 members of her family joined others to honor the men and women who served. Members of the Marine Corps League Detachment 606 led the ceremony in Marion as well as at two cemeteries near Simpson. ADVERTISEMENT "We always come. We have come for many years, ever since my husband died 32 years ago," Allen said of the Marion ceremony. Allens husband, Ross Allen, was a decorated WWII veteran. Allen said the bad weather wouldnt keep her away from the ceremony and said she only recalled one time that the ceremony was postponed. "It honors our veterans, those who lost their lives in service and those who are deceased now," she said. Allen and her children and grandchildren visited her husbands grave following the brief ceremony. Having her family around her, Allen said shows they understand the significance and importance of freedom. "It isnt necessarily free," she said. "A lot of people have given their lives so we could have our freedom." The Olmsted County Sheriffs Office is investigating an incident in which a 77-year-old woman was scammed out of more than $100,000. Olmsted County Sheriffs deputies were called to a banking institution in Rochester on Friday to help report a lottery scam that began in September, Capt. Scott Behrns said. Behrns declined to identify the bank. The 77-year-old Marion Township woman began receiving phone calls in September, telling her that she had won a Las Vegas sweepstakes of $1.5 million and a new Mercedes Benz but in order to claim her prize had to send in money for paperwork, according to Behrns. Over the course of nine months, the woman sent multiple payments totaling $109,000. Bank employees spoke with the woman multiple times and cautioned her that she had fallen victim to a scam but were unable to report it to law enforcement without the womans consent, Behrns said. A report was finally made Friday. There is an escalating crisis in the Minnesota fire service one that is costing firefighters their lives. The high incidence of illness particularly cardiac, cancer and mental health challenges is alarming and requires an immediate response. In March 2018, Mapleton, Minn., firefighter Timothy Royce died in the line of duty. Capt. Jeff Vollmer, a 12-year veteran of the Mayer, Minn., Fire Department, died in December 2017 after a rigorous training session. As the former chief of the Rochester Fire Department, news like this really hits home for me. Over the course of my 36-year career, I have known 20-plus firefighters who had cancer, died from cancer, had heart issues or significant post-traumatic stress problems. These arent isolated instances. Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of firefighters nationwide and is by far the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths in the fire service. According to the International Association of Firefighters, more than 12 percent of all firefighters will develop heart disease at some point in their lives. Cardiovascular issues are not the only occupational health risk afflicting firefighters. More and more research has surfaced showing that those in the fire service also endure higher rates of mental health challenges and cancer rates than the general population. ADVERTISEMENT The lack of awareness around these health risks among the public and firefighters contributes to the continued decline of firefighter health and safety. Departments do as much as they can with limited resources, but there is no unified vision or commitment at the city or state level to prioritize fire service funding. Something must be done. The Minnesota Firefighter Initiative (MnFIRE) launched in 2017 as an innovative and inclusive approach to unify and spark conversations among firefighters, their families, their communities and state policymakers regarding firefighter health, specifically cardiovascular disease, cancer and mental health. MnFIRE was created to equip firefighters and the people who care about them with the resources they need to prevent and treat common illnesses among firefighters and empower them to make good decisions about their health. In addition to its work educating Minnesotans about the importance of firefighter health and wellness, MnFIRE recently launched a peer support hotline for firefighters struggling with emotional issues. Firefighters in crisis can call the 24-hour hotline at 888-784-6634 for peer counseling. Improving firefighter health outcomes starts with awareness. But to make a real difference, we also need legislative action. There is a bill currently under consideration by the Minnesota Legislature that promises to improve access to care for firefighters in need of treatment. The Hometown Heroes Assistance Program bill has overwhelming bipartisan support and would provide supplemental health insurance and Employee Assistance Program resources for our states firefighters. Firefighters are obligated to face hazards every day on behalf of those who cant or wont, which is why we must confront these threats facing Minnesotas fire service with the same bravery, determination and commitment they bring to fighting fires and protecting Rochester residents. I encourage fire departments to contact MnFIRE about how they can promote greater health awareness among firefighters. I also urge legislators to pass the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program bill in 2020 and ensure our firefighters have the resources they need to combat occupational health risks. ADVERTISEMENT When firefighters are taken care of, theyre able to continue protecting our communities, and that benefits everyone. There might not be a more important public institution in our community than the Rochester Public Library. As Jefferson has so often been quoted, "A democratic society depends upon an informed and educated citizenry." And the citizens here, at least, appear to be heavily invested in their librarys well-being. So its not surprising that, ever since preliminary concept drawings of Destination Medical Center plans showed something other than the Rochester Public Library at its current site on Second Street Southeast, the future of the library has been a topic of discussion. There has never been a firm confirmation that the library will be asked (or forced) to leave its site, but that hasnt stopped the speculation and concern. ADVERTISEMENT Perhaps library officials have contributed to that by going on record saying the library needs more space. Whether that space is to be at the current site, or at a new location, is a topic for discussion. We think its a discussion well worth having, including not only the library board and city officials, but also citizens. Theres no need to jump to conclusions and pre-conceived notions, but here are some thoughts we have been kicking around in recent weeks: We believe a public library should, if at all possible, be located in the central area of the city. Define "central" in any way you like, but as in the case of other major institutions, a library should be at the heart of everything. The cost of building at a new location downtown, where real estate prices keep rising, might be prohibitive. Have all the construction projects and road closures in the vicinity of the library in recent years frustrated some users to the point where they just wont try to get there anymore? Will citizens get out of the habit of visiting the library if they continue to face access issues? Much as we would hate to see it, do some of the above points argue for development of a new library outside the central city, where there might be ample affordable space, parking and easier access? The mention of a public-private partnership to get a new library built makes us leery. In a perfect world, a public library should be funded by the public, without assistance (and potential interference) by a private entity. ADVERTISEMENT Based on all of this, we anticipate interesting times on the horizon for the library and those who love it. Lets all keep talking, keep learning, and keep in mind that a public library is possibly the most important public institution in any community. A POST-NATIVE PERSPECTIVE Over the first half of my two-week Christmas break, I spent every day in the garden attending to chores that in years past would have been com Read more NEGOTIATIONS: In this file photo, President Donald Trump congratulates U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer as he delivers remarks on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement at the White House in Washington, D.C., Oct. 1, 2018. The Trump administration recently removed a barrier to the USMCA, which replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement. POTTSTOWN A man accused of shooting his roommate during a dispute over drugs will stand trial for murder. Darryl McMillian, 36, of Pottstown, is facing first- and third-degree murder charges following an altercation that police say resulted in the death of James Madison, 41, in the early morning hours of April 16. McMillian faced a preliminary hearing Tuesday before District Judge Edward Kropp. According to reports from the District Attorneys Office, Pottstown Police officers were called to the 100 block of North Charlotte Street at 1:02 a.m. on April 16 for a report of a disturbance. When officers arrived, they heard a single gunshot inside an apartment. Police entered the apartment after McMillian opened the door, the D.A. said. Officers then found Madison on the bathroom floor suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Madison was transported to Pottstown Hospital where he was pronounced dead, police said. An autopsy conducted by Dr. Marianne Hamel, a forensic pathologist with the Montgomery County Coroners Office, determined the cause of death to be a gunshot wound to the torso, and the manner of death was ruled homicide. Pottstown Police and Montgomery County Detectives launched a joint investigation at which time they determined that the two men had gotten into an argument and physical altercation before the shot was fired. Officers observed a broken chair in the kitchen and the top portion of the bathroom door to be broken. They also found one spent .45 caliber cartridge case on the floor near the bathroom. Authorities said they also found 62 bags of suspected crack cocaine and a .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol that had been reported stolen to New Hanover Township Police on Dec. 12, 2018. According to an affidavit of probable cause, the pistol was concealed above a ceiling tile and 56 of the 62 bags of suspected crack cocaine were found inside a sock. During the proceedings, the Commonwealth called four witnesses. The first of the four was officer Nikolas Stoltzfus with Pottstown Police. He testified that officers received a call for a fight inside an apartment on North Charlotte Street that was spilling out into the alley. When officers arrived, Stoltzfus testified, McMillian, Madison and a third individual were inside the residence. When officers arrived, they heard a single gunshot inside an apartment. Police entered the apartment after McMillian opened the door, according to the District Attorneys Office and testimony from Stoltzfus. Officers then found Madison on the bathroom floor bleeding and with labored breath. Madison was transported to Pottstown Hospital where he was pronounced dead. The second witness called was Detective Mark Minzola with the Montgomery County District Attorneys Office. Minzola testified that he took two statements from McMillian. In the first, Minzola said McMillian denied shooting Madison and claimed the two had gotten into an argument and that Madison had the gun. Minzola stated that McMillian later made a statement to police indicating he was not truthful in his first statement and told police that they had been arguing through the bathroom door, a tussle ensued and that he then heard a pop. McMillian said he saw the blood and told the witness inside the apartment to call 911, according to Minzolas testimony. McMillian also admitted to hiding the firearm above a ceiling tile in the bedroom, Minzola said. The third witness, Detective John Wittenberger, with the homicide unit of Montgomery County Detectives testified that he took a statement from a witness within the apartment. According to Wittenberger, the witness identified McMillian as the aggressor in the argument leading up to the shooting. Wittenberger stated that the witness also stated that she had not seen either man with a gun before the shot was fired. The final witness was Detective Michael Fedak with the Montgomery County Detectives narcotics team. Fedak, who has been utilized as a narcotics expert over 20 times in court, served as a narcotics expert for the Commonwealth Tuesday. Fedak testified that the 62 packets of suspected crack cocaine indicated possession with intent to deliver based on the amount of drugs. Additionally, the recovery of a firearm at the scene and a lack of means to ingest the drugs also indicated that the suspected cocaine was being using for delivery purposes, according to Fedaks testimony. In closing, defense lawyer Michael Peter Gottlieb argued that evidence was pretty thin for anything related to murder charges. Assistant District Attorney Michael Bradbury pointed to testimony that McMillian actively tried to hide the gun and that he had lied to police about what happened in the apartment. McMillian was held on all charges of first- and third-degree murder, receiving stolen property, possession of an instrument of crime, possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, possession of a controlled substance and unsworn falsification to authorities. He is scheduled for a formal arraignment on July 17. In February 2018, the House Intelligence Committee released the so-called Nunes memo. In four pages, the document, from the committees then-chairman Rep. Devin Nunes, revealed much of what the public knows today about the FBIs reliance on the Steele dossier in pursuing since-discredited allegations that the Trump campaign and Russia conspired to fix the 2016 election. Specifically, it revealed that the FBI included unverified material from the dossier in applications to a secret spy court to win a warrant to wiretap Trump foreign policy volunteer adviser Carter Page. All that was classified. To release it, the committee appealed to President Trump, who made a declassification order. That is the only way Americans know about the Page warrant. From that knowledge came later revelations about the FBIs use of confidential informants and undercover agents to get information on Trump campaign figures. It is good that the public knows such things, just as it is good that the public knows what is in the Mueller report. But in the days before the Nunes memo was declassified, many of the nations top current and former intelligence officials, members of Congress, and analysts in the press warned that declassification would do grave damage to American national security. It didnt happen. Now, some of the same people are issuing somber warnings of the damage that will be done if Attorney General William Barr declassifies documents showing what else the nations law enforcement and intelligence agencies did in the 2016 Trump investigation. In 2018, former CIA Director John Brennan said of the Nunes memo, I never witnessed the type of reckless partisan behavior I am now seeing. Recently, Brennan called the Barr declassification project a reckless, reckless initiative. In 2018, Rep. Adam Schiff, the current chairman of the Intelligence Committee, said the Nunes memo crosses a dangerous line. Recently, he said the Barr initiative marks a new and dangerous phase. In 2018, former Attorney General Eric Holder called the Nunes memo unheard of, dangerous and irresponsible. Recently, he called the Barr initiative the height of irresponsibility and a dangerous precedent. Many others echoed Brennans and Schiffs and Holders sentiments. The problem is, they were wrong then, and they are likely wrong again now. The revelation that the FBI used the Steele dossier the collection of unconfirmed anti-Trump dirt compiled for the Hillary Clinton campaign by the former British spy Christopher Steele set off a tremendous argument about the dossiers reliability. But there was no doubt that the Nunes memo was correct, that the FBI had indeed cited the dossier as evidence in its argument that Carter Page should be wiretapped. Its hard to avoid the conclusion that some of the loudest voices denouncing Nunes were angry about the exposure of the FBIs questionable actions, and not the fact that the FBIs actions were indeed questionable. Indeed, after the release of the Nunes memo, there was little discussion of any specific damage it had done to U.S. national security. Now, there is another fight about declassification. Nunes himself has heard this all before. Every time we have tried to get information on the Russia hoax, the left as well as the media and their leakers claimed it would devastate national security, Nunes said in a text exchange. Now we hear the same argument from the same reporters, leakers and leftists, even though all their previous doomsday warnings proved false. These people simply use national security as a false justification to hide information that would reveal their abuses. Nunes summed up with one more line: Democracy dies in darkness. The resistance to declassification is likely to be ferocious. Almost immediately after President Trump ordered intelligence agencies to cooperate with Barr and gave the attorney general full and complete authority to declassify information from the Trump-Russia investigation, the intelligence world struck back when The New York Times reported that Barrs project could endanger one of the CIAs most prized sources. Attributing its story to former officials, the Times said the source was someone close to (Vladimir) Putin who gave the CIA information about (Putins) involvement in U.S. election interference, and specifically turned over evidence to support the conclusion that Putin himself was behind the Russia hack. The source had been long nurtured by the CIA and was highly valued by Brennan when he was director. All of that work might be at risk if Barr moves ahead, the Times suggested. Now, if anything might endanger such a source, it would be exposure in The New York Times. But the story showed that the intelligence world will push back hard against this new effort to investigate its record. The fight could be messy. But Barr, like Nunes, has heard such threats before. Its time to find out what the CIA, FBI and other agencies did in those difficult days of the 2016 campaign. (Byron York is chief political correspondent for The Washington Examiner.) Congresswoman Ilhan Omar has generally seemed to have nothing but contempt for the country that took her in as a refugee, educated her and elected her to Congress. But in a speech at a CAIR event in Bellevue, Washington, on Saturday, she sounded almost patriotic as she described her own successes and the growing power of Muslims in American government. This is the poster for the event. It emphasizes the theme of Muslim power: These are the first few minutes of Omars speech: These introductory comments include a jarring note: Omars claim that she is fighting against efforts to ban our entire religion from this country. Really? As a Congresswoman, Omar should know that the U.S. Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, and there is no way any religion can be banned from this country. Moreover, I am not aware of a single person anywherelet alone a political movement that needs to be fought against by Omarthat advocates banning the entire Muslim religion from the U.S. It is hard to tell, sometimes, whether Ilhan Omar is a skilled demagogue or a person for whom allowances must be made because, as Nancy Pelosi put it, she has a different experience in the use of words and therefore cannot be held to normal standards of veracity. Unfortunately, in the years to come we are likely to have many opportunities to revisit this question. New York Times media reporter Marc Tracy has written with a question following up on my long message responding to his request for comments on the Assange indictment. He wonders if I could speak to [my] feelings specifically on the superseding indictment against Assange. I thought my feelings were apparent from what I wrote, but I have responded as follows: I support enforcement of the Espionage Act against perpetrators of egregious violations such as Assange and such as the Times. I hope it might have a deterrent effect on the Times next time around. I guess we shall see if the Times finds my feelings fit to print. On Friday afternoon New York Times media reporter Marc Tracy wrote us to ask if we might be available to discuss the superseding indictment of Julian Assange before a Tuesday evening deadline. I promptly gave Marc my personal contact information and invited him to fire away. He didnt get around to posing a question until 11:00 p.m. last night. Here is whats cooking in his kitchen: -Do you see a link between the governments increased willingness to prosecute leakers of classified information and, now, this prosecution against a publisher of that information? -Do you agree with the governments decision to charge Assange, including for things that many say are similar to what other national security reporters do. Eg, this is not just the 18th count, which was in the previous indictment, but the ones that strive to criminalize his contacts with his source that sought to protect the sources identity; and to publish the classified information? -Tell me a little about yourself, and how you came to this field. Basically we are writing about the indictment against Assange. I deduce from your post that you are in favor of the broader, superseding indictment. Here are a few questions: Coming from the Times, these questions hit home. I dont feel capable of doing justice to them, but I responded this morning as follows: Marc: I am a Minneapolis attorney who has been writing about politics and public policy for newspapers and magazines for nearly 30 years. I have written for the Power Line site nearly every day since we founded it 17 years ago. In 2004 I was involved in the exposure of the Rathergate fraud on Power Line. For a symposium published on election day 2004 the Times invited my colleague John Hinderaker and me to contribute a short piece discussing our role. If there is more you would like to know about me, I would be happy to answer specific questions. The publication by the New York Times of highly classified information for reasons of pure political malice has been a special interest of mine. I wrote about it in the 2006 Weekly Standard column Exposure (accessible online here: https://www.weeklystandard.com/scott-w-johnson/exposure) and have written about it frequently on Power Line. In my Standard column, for example, I specifically asked Is the New York Times a law unto itself? I support the enforcement of the Espionage Act laws with discretion, such as in cases involving the publication of highly classified information of the kind that is protected from publication by the Espionage Act with absolutely no bona fide public purpose, or no purpose other than rank partisan politics. Yesterday I cited two egregious 2017 instances involving the Times in the Power Line post Tears of the Times (URL: https://www.powerlineblog.com/archives/2019/05/tears-of-the-times.php). I cited these cases in the context of the Times story by Barnes and Sanger on the Trump declassification order. Barnes and Sanger seem all choked up by President Trumps lawful authorization of Attorney General Barr to declassify documents bearing on the Russiagate hoax. The Times wants to reserve to itself the authority to determine which highly classified information is to be exposed to the enemies of the United States. I dont. Accordingly, I advocated for the prosecution of the Times under the Espionage Act in 2005 and 2006. My work on Power Line elicited this letter to the editor of the Times from then-Lieutenant Tom Cotton serving in Baghdad: Dear Messrs. Keller, Lichtblau & Risen: Congratulations on disclosing our governments highly classified anti-terrorist-financing program (June 23[, 2006]). I apologize for not writing sooner. But I am a lieutenant in the United States Army and I spent the last four days patrolling one of the more dangerous areas in Iraq. (Alas, operational security and common sense prevent me from even revealing this unclassified location in a private medium like email.) Unfortunately, as I supervised my soldiers late one night, I heard a booming explosion several miles away. I learned a few hours later that a powerful roadside bomb killed one soldier and severely injured another from my 130-man company. I deeply hope that we can find and kill or capture the terrorists responsible for that bomb. But, of course, these terrorists do not spring from the soil like Platos guardians. No, they require financing to obtain mortars and artillery shells, priming explosives, wiring and circuitry, not to mention for training and payments to locals willing to emplace bombs in exchange for a few months salary. As your story states, the program was legal, briefed to Congress, supported in the government and financial industry, and very successful. Not anymore. You may think you have done a public service, but you have gravely endangered the lives of my soldiers and all other soldiers and innocent Iraqis here. Next time I hear that familiar explosion or next time I feel it I will wonder whether we could have stopped that bomb had you not instructed terrorists how to evade our financial surveillance. And, by the way, having graduated from Harvard Law and practiced with a federal appellate judge and two Washington law firms before becoming an infantry officer, I am well-versed in the espionage laws relevant to this story and others laws you have plainly violated. I hope that my colleagues at the Department of Justice match the courage of my soldiers here and prosecute you and your newspaper to the fullest extent of the law. By the time we return home, maybe you will be in your rightful place: not at the Pulitzer announcements, but behind bars. Very truly yours, Tom Cotton Baghdad, Iraq Then-Lieutenant Cotton copied Power Line on his letter to the editor of the Times. We promptly published it. Even though the Time has since interviewed Senator Cotton about his letter to the editor, the Times has never seen fit to publish it. The Times has failed utterly in its duty to air the issues raised by its own conduct bearing on enforcement of egregious violations of the Espionage Act. If you have any follow-up questions, please feel free to contact me. In the meantime, thank you for contacting us in connection with your interest in the issues. Scott W. Johnson Power Line I havent found exactly what Ive been looking for in the way of analysis of the European Parliament election results in the United Kingdom. The Telegraphs weekly newsletter summary put it this way yesterday: The Conservatives have been decimated in the European elections and recorded their worst result in history, as Nigel Farages six-week-old Brexit party triumphed. The European elections, which were never supposed to happen, proved disastrous for both the Tories and Labour, as the vote polarised between parties backing hard Brexit and Remain. Mr Farages Brexit Party came first and the Liberal Democrats second, with Labour third, the Greens fourth and the Tories fifth. The success of the Brexit Party will ignite the Tory leadership race and is likely to bolster the case of Eurosceptic candidates pushing for Britain to leave with or without a deal on October 31. Even NPRs Frank Langfitt seems to get the drift. NPR quotes Langfitt: This is the worst showing by the Conservative Party since the 1830s. Jack Blanchard wrote here at greater length in Politicos London Playbook yesterday, and all of Blanchards comments are worth a look. Among Blanchards takeaways is this one: Nigel Farage was undoubtedly the nights big winner, taking a political party formed just four months ago to the top of the polls on its debut outing a feat never before seen in British politics. Blanchard contributes a good quote from Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt as well in this observation: Astonishingly for the party of government, the Tories failed to finish top in a single one of the 300-plus local authority areas across Britain. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt admitted the Tories face an existential crisis. Responding to my email inquiry, Spectator USA Life & Arts editor Dominic Green adds this preview of coming attractions with his characteristic literary flair and gives me exactly what I have found to be missing in the analyses: The obvious conclusion is that the next Conservative leader should be committed to Brexit in order to restore trust, must be prepared to steer the party right in order to head off the Brexit Party, and must be able to appeal to the center ground at the next general election. Whether enough Conservative MPs have internalized this will be shown in the next few weeks, as the leadership contest gets under way. The only candidate who possesses all three of these criteria is Boris Johnson, who twice won mayoral races in Labour-majority London, and who, after some prevarication, led the Brexit referendum campaign in 2016. Johnson is the Conservative members favorite, but the members dont get to vote until the MPs have whittled down the field to the last two candidates. There is every chance that Johnson will be ambushed on his way to the Senate. This is, as they say, a developing story. The Washington Post reports that Joe Biden is running a presidential campaign of limited exposure. This Memorial Day weekend, when his rivals were scurrying from venue to venue pressing the flesh, Bidens agenda stated no public events scheduled. Thats typical of his campaign so far. According to the Post, since entering the race four weeks ago, Biden has held 11 public events. Beto ORourke held nearly four times that number in the same period. Elizabeth Warren and Cory Booker have held 27; Bernie Sanders 17. Kirsten Gillibrand planned 11 stops in Iowa just over the holiday weekend. Post reporters Annie Linskey and Chelsea Janes point out that, with the exception of ORourke, all of these candidates have full-time jobs in the Senate. Biden is unemployed. Here are some of the events Biden is skipping: MoveOns Big Ideas forum; the California Democratic Party convention; the Iowa Democratic Party dinner; and the Black Economic Alliance presidential forum in Charleston, S.C. These events seem quite skipable, but not by someone who seeks the Democrats presidential nomination. Why is Biden limiting his exposure so sharply? Linskey and Janes are too diplomatic, or partisan, to discuss the obvious reason hes a gaffe machine. Instead, they note that he has plenty of name recognition and leads in the polls. But if Biden were confident in his ability to face public scrutiny, he would be pressing home his advantage instead of avoiding the public. Bidens backers say that the public has no doubt about where their man stands on the issues of the day. That statement is laughable, though Linskey and Janes dont challenge it. Biden has stood on both sides of many important issues. Voters who pay attention know that, as a general matter, hes repudiating the relative centrism that marked much of his political career, but they dont know how thoroughly he is prepared to repudiate it. Biden himself may not be sure another reason to avoid various fora. The closest Linskey and Janes come to a satisfactory explanation for Bidens reluctance to appear in public is this quotation from a Democratic operative who favors candidates to the left of Biden: Voters are going into events with him expecting Uncle Joe, but they come out having seen Grandpa Joe. Harsh, but probably true. There are limits to the degree Biden can run a front porch campaign. He will, of course, have to appear in a series of debates. And participants in the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire expect candidates to pay lots of attention to them. A candidate who takes his appeal in these states for granted does so at his or her peril. Donald Trump found that out when he skipped a major Iowa forum and ended up second to Ted Cruz in the 2016 caucuses. On balance, though, Biden is wise to limit his exposure. Given his somewhat centrist past, his opponents have enough to shoot at without Biden putting his foot in his mouth every other day. Until a strong challenger not named Bernie Sanders emerges from the crowded field to mount a credible challenge to Biden, or until his poll numbers show hes coming back to the pack, it makes sense for the former vice president to sit back, rest up, and rely on his image, which is considerably more appealing than the real Joe Biden. A fire broke out early Monday evening at a local woodworking shop in Hot Springs, Arkansas, shutting down traffic in the area while firefighters used four engines to contain the blaze. In order to allow a ladder truck to operate safely, utility company Entergy Arkansas said it had to de-energize a power line, causing some 1,700 customers to lose service. Fortunately, nobody was in the building, according to Hot Springs Fire Marshall Carlton Scott. However, the fire, which started out as thick smoke that eventually burst into a blaze, destroyed the structure. The building had been home to Whatll It Be? Woodworking, a local business in operation for more than 35 years. The fire was contained by about 7:00pm local time, and Entergy said it would have power back on a few hours later. While the fire didnt physically impact other businesses in the area, the power outage carried a risk to their technology. Specifically, outages often are accompanied by power surges, which send bursts of higher-than-normal voltage electricity into businesses and then into any powered equipment. Damage can be minor, merely weakening circuits and wearing them down so they eventually break even without a power outage or much more severe, immediately breaking circuits and rendering systems useless. Either way, any number of systems are susceptible any time unclean power runs through them. In addition the costs of repairing or replacing servers, switches, firewalls, corrupted software, or other technology critical to business operations are high, and even higher when factoring in days or weeks of downtime. The best way to avoid damage is by installing power protection systems with UPS capabilities. The UPS feature allows for continuous power even during an outage, so equipment can be manually shut down to prevent damage or data loss. Longer runtime solutions can keep systems operational for longer periods to service business continuity needs. Most importantly, though, the power protection systems regulate line voltage to ensure only clean power runs into businesses. A fire is likely to cripple businesses, but even extended downtime due to equipment damage can be difficult to overcome. With the right power protection system in place, business owners can rest easily.Edited by Erik Linask Automotive tire market projections deliver positive revenue growth during the period between 2017-2022. Fact.MR PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-28 14:43:58 Press Information Fact.MR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Basant Manager 353-1-6111-593 email https://www.factmr.com/ # 648 Words 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400Manager353-1-6111-593 FactMR has published a new study titled Automotive Tire Market Forecast, Trend Analysis & Competition Tracking: Global Market insights 2017 to 2022, which drops light on the overall market scenario prevailing in the automotive tire sector. Based on this assessment, the automotive tire market is likely to register steady growth during the forecast period until 2022. Interestingly, it is projected that the target market will acquire nearly US$ 300 billion in 2019. Some of the prime facets motivating revenue growth in the global automotive tire market includes enhanced tire performance, launch of innovative products and surging tire production.According to this FactMR study, the automotive tire market is likely to showcase burgeoning growth at 5.1% CAGR through 2022. This report accentuates the primary consequences associated to the automotive tire market together with a comprehensive research methodology to educate the readers. Further, the involvement of primary and secondary researches to acquire actionable insights about the automotive tire market works to make this assessment a well-heeled data source.Request For Sample Report- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=12 Technological Innovations to Steer Market PropagationLooking at the global automotive tire market, technological progressions are expected to aid manufacturers to update their production process and thereby adapt with the changing consumer demands. In addition, the implementation of sophisticated technology is helping to elevate the mechanism for manufacturers for heightening the supply chain and receive maximum profitability.APEJ Region to Register Impressive Growth during Forecast PeriodTalking about the regional revenue status, APEJ is likely to retain a significant share in the global automotive market during the forecast period. The marked region is anticipated to account for nearly 50% of the market revenue share in 2019. In addition, the APEJ region is even projected to record fastest growth in the automotive tire market as a result of rapid industrialization in the manufacturing industry. The advent of newly developed economies such as Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia, is estimated to indorse heavily towards the growth of the automotive tire market.Browse Full Report on Automotive Tire Market with TOC- https://www.factmr.com/report/12/automotive-tire-market Inclination towards Smart Tires Host Fresh Avenues for ManufacturersAccording to this intelligent FactMR study, exploration towards the development of smart tires is likely to introduce new opportunities across the automotive tire market. Several automotive tire manufacturers have started to embed sensors into tires with a purpose to monitor the prevalent driving conditions and thereby manufacture tires which can suitably adapt autonomously to the researched conditions. For example, quite recently Continental AG issued a launch news for its ContiAdapt and ContiSense technologies that are stated to provide efficient resolutions towards autonomous driving in the near future.Sustainable Manufacturing Methods Expected to Impact Tire ProductionIt has been observed that rising environmental concerns fused with extended governmental support towards sustainable manufacturing is likely to influence tire production. The concentrated investments from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) into research and development for sustainable materials and production techniques is gaining pace, which thereby tends to support the overall automotive tire market.The final segment of the report is dedicated to discourse information about the competitive landscape. This portion talks about the leading market players like Bridgestone Corporation, Madras Rubber Factory Limited, The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., Apollo Tyres Ltd., Pirelli & C. S.p.A, and Cheng Shin Rubber Industry Co., based on their company overview, key financials and product overview.Request Methodology of this Report- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=RM&rep_id=12 About FactMRFactMR 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 UsFactMR11140 Rockville PikeSuite 400Rockville, MD 20852United StatesEmail: sales@ factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-28 22:02:24 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 943 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / Minerva Intelligence Inc. (formerly Two Owls Ventures Corp.) (TSXV: MVAI) (the "Company"), is pleased to announce that, further to its news releases dated November 8, 2018 and April 4, 2019, it has closed its arm's length Qualifying Transaction ("QT"), being the acquisition of all of the outstanding shares of Minerva Intelligence (Canada) Ltd. ("Minerva") from the former holders thereof, in exchange for shares of the Company.Resumption of TradingIt is expected that on or about June 5, 2019, the Company's common shares will commence trading on the Exchange as a Tier 2 technology issuer under the symbol "MVAI".The Qualifying TransactionPursuant to a Plan of Arrangement and Arrangement Agreement (the "Arrangement"), the following has been completed:(a) the Company completed a consolidation of its 6,200,000 outstanding common shares on a two-for-one basis (resulting in 3,100,000 shares outstanding);(b) the Company changed its name to "Minerva Intelligence Inc."; (c) Minerva continued its jurisdiction of incorporation from Ontario to British Columbia, to become subject to the B.C. Business Corporations Act ("BCBCA");(d) Minerva amalgamated with 1198574 B.C. Ltd. (a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company) and continued as "Minerva Intelligence (Canada) Ltd." under the BCBCA;(e) the Company issued an aggregate of 38,575,005 post-consolidated shares in exchange for all of the outstanding shares of Minerva;(f) the Company also issued (i) 1,000,000 post-consolidated shares as a finder's fee, and (ii) a total of 1,950,000 stock options in replacement of outstanding options in the capital of Minerva, each new option entitling the holder to acquire one share of the Company at the exercise price of $0.2534 per share; and(g) Minerva became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.About MinervaMinerva is in the business of developing and marketing artificial intelligent (AI) software products. Minerva's AI systems combine human expertise (e.g., mineral exploration) with vast amounts of information from public and private databases in a cognitive computer reasoning system to carry out complex tasks faster and more thoroughly than can be done by human beings. One of its first AI software products focuses on enhancing the success rate of minerals exploration. Although mineral deposits are rare and complex with many different attributes, more than 100 years of scientific research has produced many powerful models used to predict where mineral deposits are most likely to occur. Minerva's AI system combines the power of human knowledge and experience with computer speed and reasoning to streamline mineral discovery.Minerva initially applied its AI platform to minerals exploration, but it can be used in other industries, such as environmental protection, geohazards, land use planning, insurance and healthcare. Minerva's AI platform will be available as a software-as-a-service (SaaS) application. Its first of three products for the mineral exploration industry, the www.yukonmineraltargets.com website, was launched in early 2019 and it is also currently developing applications for the geohazards and insurance industries to be released in the near-term.Capital Structure and Resale RestrictionsThe Company currently has issued and outstanding: (i) 42,675,005 shares; (ii) 310,000 stock options exercisable at $0.20 per share; (iii) 200,000 agent's options exercisable at $0.20 per share; and (iv) 1,950,000 stock options exercisable at $0.2534 per share.A total of 12,766,675 common shares will be subject to escrow restrictions, including 1,100,000 shares originally issued to the Company's principals upon listing the Company as a CPC, and 11,666,675 shares issued to new principals and others in connection with the QT. All escrowed shares will be released from escrow as to 10% on listing, and an additional 15% every six months thereafter over 36 months.In addition (i) 3,416,665 shares are subject to resale restrictions over four months with 20% to be free trading on listing, with an additional 20% every month thereafter; and (ii) 5,166,665 shares will be subject to resale restrictions over 12 months with 20% to be free trading on listing, with an additional 20% every three months thereafter.FinancingMinerva recently completed two private placements of (i) 2,765,000 shares at US$1.00 per share for gross proceeds of US$2,765,000, and (ii) 1,450,000 shares at US$2.50 per share for gross proceeds of US$3,625,000. Minerva's working capital as of May 1, 2019 was C$5,656,000. In addition, the Company has working capital of C$355,000 (prior to closing expenses). No funds were advanced by Two Owls to Minerva prior to closing of the QT.ManagementThe Company's new board of directors and officers are:Clinton Smyth - CEO, President and DirectorMr. Smyth is a geologist and software developer with 40 years of experience in minerals exploration, resource evaluation and mining, 25 of those with one of the largest mining companies in the world. He began his career as a De Beers Consolidated Mines student at the University of Cape Town in 1974, moving to the Anglo American Corporation of South Africa with a BSc (Hons) in geochemistry in 1978. He served Anglo American in diverse roles throughout Africa and Australasia. In 1985 he was sent by Anglo American to Imperial College, London, to study artificial intelligence applications in geology, and in 1996 he moved to Singapore to establish Anglo American's exploration presence in that region. During his career with Anglo American, he held various responsibilities in exploration geochemistry, resource evaluation, software development and corporate management. Mr. Smyth and his team discovered the Buzwagi deposit in Tanzania in 1996; the Boyongan Cu-Au porphyry deposit in the Philippines in 1999; and GT Gold Corp's Saddle Gold Project in British Columbia's Golden Triangle in 2014.In 2000, as Vice President (Exploration) in Johannesburg, he resigned from Anglo American and co-founded Georeference Online Ltd ("Georeference"). Georeference provided consulting services to the minerals exploration and mining industry and develops software applications for mineral exploration and the earth sciences in general. In 2017 Minerva purchased Georeference's artificial intelligence software and intellectual property, and appointed Mr. Smyth as its CEO.%0 PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-28 21:07:01 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 804 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 This release is replacing and correcting: Bright Mountain Media, Inc. Announces Letter of Intent to Acquire S&W Media Group, from May 23, 2019.Spelling of "Winsham" has been corrected to "Winshman," and the phrase "verified by white ops, pixelate and," was removed.BOCA RATON, FL / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / Bright Mountain Media, Inc. (OTCQB: BMTM), a digital media holding company whose primary focus is connecting brands with consumers as a full advertising services platform, announced today that on April 21, 2019, it entered into a non-binding letter of intent ("LOI") to acquire Slutzky & Winshman Ltd. d/b/a/ S&W Media Group ("S&W") in a cash and stock transaction.Based in Tel Aviv, S&W Media Group is a global, cross-screen video content delivery and monetization platform. S&W enables content owners and media properties alike with the ability to deliver precision based targeted content and advertising with proprietary machine learning data. S&W brings efficiency and value to media owners by enabling them to quickly build and grow their business across all screens around the world. S&W is a trusted and transparent platform powering the most premium direct and programmatic dollars across the globe and at scale.The closing of the transaction is subject to a number of conditions precedent, including satisfactory due diligence by us and the execution of definitive agreements, including employment agreements with the principal officers and directors of S&W Media.The purchase price for the transaction is $750,000 cash and up to 13,000,000 shares of our common stock of which 7,000,000 shares are payable at closing. The balance of 6,000,000 shares are payable over three years upon achieving certain forecasts, including the following:For 2019 - Revenues of $12,430,919 and EBIDTA of $715,193;For 2020 - Revenues of $18,192,454 and EBIDTA of $1,932,283; andFor 2021 - Revenues of $19,404,498 and EBIDTA of $2,010,293.Kip Speyer, Chairman and CEO of Bright Mountain Media, said, "Recognizing the global presence of S&W Media and its young, creative and aggressive leadership makes this acquisition, if consummated, a major game changer for us. We believe that a global presence with offices in Israel will permit us to accelerate our growth worldwide." Together with the acquisition of Inform, Inc., if consummated, as previously reported, Mr. Speyer further stated, "We believe that the consolidation of our businesses will permit us to grow exponentially." "Today's announcement with Bright Mountain is very exciting for us. We believe that the combination of our companies will facilitate our ability to take advantage of global opportunities and grow our combined company internally as well as with strategic acquisitions," said Messrs. Slutzky and Winshman.The LOI is non-binding and there are no assurances that Bright Mountain Media will consummate the proposed acquisition of S&W Media. Stockholders and investors should not place undue reliance on the LOI.ABOUT BRIGHT MOUNTAIN MEDIABright Mountain Media, Inc. (BMTM) is a digital media holding company whose primary focus is connecting brands with consumers as a full advertising services platform. Bright Mountain Media's assets include an ad network, an ad exchange platform and 25 websites (owned and/or managed) that provide content, services and products. The websites are primarily geared for a young, male audience with several that focus on active, reserve and retired military audiences as well as law enforcement and first responders.Additional information about Bright Mountain Media can be found at: https://www.brightmountainmedia.com Forward-Looking Statements for Bright Mountain Media, Inc.This press release contains certain forward-looking statements that are based upon current expectations and involve certain risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as ''should,'' ''may,'' ''intends,'' ''anticipates,'' ''believes,'' ''estimates,'' ''projects,'' ''forecasts,'' ''expects,'' ''plans,'' and ''proposes, '' and similar words. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, some of which are beyond our control and difficult to predict and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements made with respect to expectations of our ability to close the proposed acquisition of Inform, Inc., any the realization of any expected benefits from such transaction if closed. You are urged to carefully review and consider any cautionary statements and other disclosures, including the statements made under the heading 'Risk Factors' in Bright Mountain Media, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 12, 2019 and our other filings with the SEC. Bright Mountain Media, Inc. does not undertake any duty to update any forward-looking statements except as may be required by law.PRESS CONTACTSBright Mountain Media:Maria Montiglio+1 (561) 998-2440maria@ brightmountainmedia.com SOURCE: Bright Mountain Media PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-28 10:25:02 IXINA to Bring Chinese Consumers the Most Cost-effective Kitchens IXINA Accesses to China by Opening Stores in Beijing and Shanghai IXINA David Andrew davidandrew@foxmail.com On May 29, IXINA opened stores in both Beijing and Shanghai, marking the European kitchen retailers official access to China. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005 (Photo: Business Wire) Brought to China by GOME Retail, IXINA plans to open 6 more stores in 2019 incl. Wuxi and Nanjing, and make the number to 100 in the next three years. Chinese consumers are giving more concerns over kitchen quality in the context of a new round consumption update. Chinese believe kitchen is a space they experience something, make social interactions and maintain affection ties. The market size of kitchen furniture and appliances is currently over RMB 400 billion. Wang Junzhou, President of GOME Retail said that selling individual products is far from meeting new consumption habits, and package solutions are more popular. For over a year, GOME Retail has extended its business scope and strategic outreach based on its strong home appliance supply chain. New businesses such as Comfortable Home, IXINA and Kitchen Space are introduced, and self-operated home decoration business will soon be launched. Wang Junzhou said, These businesses are essential approaches to achieving GOME Retails Home Life strategy. Founded in 1987, GOME Retail (SEHK code HK00493) is a leading retail chain operator in China that offers consumers quality home appliances, decoration, furniture and services. GOME Retail has more than 2,100 stores in 630 Chinese cities. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005 PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-28 23:08:38 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 536 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 DALLAS, TX / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / Some of today's thriving US cities are getting to the top through not only supporting large global corporations but also through their growing network of small businesses. A recent ranking by online resource Biz2Credit highlights this fact as they comprised their annual report for uncovering the best cities in the nation for small businesses in 2019. On the list were those cities familiar to widespread economic success including California's San Diego and Los Angeles as well as NYC and Boston.In order to calculate the ranking, the online analyst used its tool BizAnalyzer to uncover the factors behind sustaining a successful business climate that supports and fosters growth. Touching on a collective view of the business environment in each city location, a key category analyzed focused on the cost of doing business. Things like taxes, property costs, permits, etc. all impact the cost of starting and running a business and helped to organize how each location ranked among affordability when compared to other cities in the running.This baseline information was then analyzed against the overall annual revenues for each location's small business network in which the report used a combined pool of 30K organizations for running the comparison. These companies were all those that fit into what the SBA defines as small businesses; which in the report's case narrowed it down to those organizations with 250 or less employees making no more than $10 million in annual revenue that have been operating for at least a year.Weighing the averages across these companies in both affordability and revenue, the report also looked at the rate of which small business creation was growing in each metro area along with the local talent pool and its ability to sustain growth. With nearly 59 million people or 48% of the nation's private workforce employed by small businesses - understanding the health of each area's employee network is a critical factor keeping the United States' metros growing and fueling small businesses.The report's top 10 cities included:MiamiSan Jose, CASan FranciscoNew YorkSan DiegoLos AngelesBostonSacramento, CABaltimoreWashington, DC"Understanding the role of the nation's small business network is critical to understanding our nation's history and future economic success and independence. Starting as a small business myself, the opportunities available in each metro are different so it is up to business owners to evaluate where they can setup and successfully run their company as location will likely be a continuing factor in either enabling or hindering success." shares Texas-based entrepreneur and business owner Marcus Hiles.By seeing Miami top the charts this year followed by both those well-established city economies like San Francisco along with up and coming areas like Baltimore, it is apparent small businesses are thriving across a diverse group of locations. Whether an area is the best place to start and own a business or not, there are opportunities nationwide for the next generation of business owners.To learn more about business and development news visit marcushiles-news.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwrLIhyaB0p_0F1gWg4R7cA/videos Houzz: https://www.houzz.com/pro/marcushiles/marcus-hiles Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcus.hiles/ SOURCE: Marcus Hiles PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-28 15:04:18 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 773 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 28, 2019 / Nexus Gold Corp. ("Nexus" or the "Company") (TSX-V: NXS, OTCQB: NXXGF, FSE: N6E) is pleased to announce that the Company has reached an agreement with Robert Stares, an arms'-length party, to acquire a series of mineral claims located in Central Newfoundland and commonly known as the Gummy Bear ("GB") Copper-Gold Project (the "Project"). In consideration for the Project, the Company is required to issue 4,000,000 common shares. The Company is also required to grant a 2.0% net smelter returns royalty on commercial production from the Project, one-half of which may be purchased at any time for a cash payment of $1,000,000.The Project is located in Central Newfoundland, 15 km south of South Brook and 40 km north of Badger on the Trans-Canada Highway. Woods roads give good access to all parts of the Project . The Project consists of 7 Claims and covering an area of 2,525 hectares.Regional GeologyThe Project is underlain on the eastern side by mafic volcanics of the Roberts Arm Group, a steeply dipping, attenuated and deformed sequence of dominantly submarine volcanics and volcanogenic rocks. Much of the central part of the Project is underlain by the Gull Island Formation (Badger Group), comprising marine siliciclastics. A tectonized block of melange termed the Sops Head Complex occurs locally. Marine siliciclastics of the Pennys Brook Fm (Wild Bight Gp) occur to the north. Marine sandstones of the Crescent Lake Fm (Roberts Arm Gp) underlie parts of the NE section of the Project.MineralizationThe Company is acquiring the Project to investigate the gold potential based on anomalous gold occurring in outcrop which graded up to 4.2 g/t Au. In addition to the gold showing, several large boulders containing pyrrhotite, pyrite and chalcopyrite have been discovered to the south west which have returned assays ranging from 2.76 - 4.02 % Cu. Historic aeromag/ EM surveys conducted in 1989 identified six parallel conductors a few kilometers to the east of the boulder train.Three additional showings occur in the western portion of the claim block, the Moose Brook Showing, the Tommy's Arm, and the Rocky Point Cu showing. Mineralization is described as consisting of disseminated chalcopyrite, pyrite and possibly molybdenite in the mafic to felsic flows of the Roberts Arm Group (Elias, 1957). Alteration includes graphite and several narrow bands of hematite. Pyrite occurs with the graphite. Mineralization is interpreted as pre-to syn-tectonic. Elias (1957 estimate that 1-2% Cu is present. The Tommy's Arm Fault runs through the mineralized area and may be a structural control for the mineralization.In connection with completion of the acquisition of the Project, the Company intends to issue 400,000 common shares to an arms'-length third party who assisted with introducing the acquisition to the Company.All securities to be issued in connection with the acquisition of the Project will be subject to a four-month-and-one-day statutory hold period in accordance with applicable securities laws. The acquisition remains subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and cannot be completed until such approval is obtained.Figure 1: GB Project (Gummy Bear) Sample LocationsAbout the CompanyNexus Gold is a Vancouver-based gold exploration and development company with active projects in West Africa and Canada. The Company is concentrating its efforts on establishing a compliant resource at one or more of it's four current West African-based projects which total over 560-sq kms (56,000+ hectares) of land located on active gold belts and proven mineralized trends, while also conducting development phases on its two 100%-owned Canadian projects, McKenzie Gold Project in Red Lake, Ontario, and the New Pilot Project, located in BC's historic Bridge River Mining Camp. For more information please visit www.nexusgoldcorp.com Warren Robb P.Geo., Vice-President, Exploration, is the designated Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and is responsible for the technical information contained in this release.On behalf of the Board of Directors ofNEXUS GOLD CORP.Alex KlenmanPresident & CEO604-558-1920info@ nexusgoldcorp.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. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially because of factors discussed in the management discussion and analysis section of our interim and most recent annual financial statement or other reports and filings with the TSX Venture Exchange and applicable Canadian securities regulations. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.SOURCE: Nexus Gold Corp. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-28 08:00:00 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 615 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 The research arm of leading investment management services firmSendai Mebuki Holdings announces the opening of its new research officebased in SeoulSEOUL, SOUTH KOREA / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2019 / The research arm of leading investment management services firm Sendai Mebuki Holdings announces the opening of its new research office based in Seoul. As of May 2019, the facility will centralize Sendai Mebuki Holdings research operations, providing comprehensive, innovative information streams and analytics to Sendai Mebuki Holdings brokers for their institutional investors and retail clients.Established in 2004 and headquartered in Osaka Japan, Sendai Mebuki Holdings has built a respectable reputation within the capital markets industry. Asian financial markets at present hold some of the world's most rewarding and profitable investment opportunities.With so many dynamic markets in play, it has been difficult even for institutional investors to gather the information needed to develop leading strategies in the region confidently. Retail investors face even more significant challenges, often settling for small investments in Asian index funds and leaving bolder, more profitable plays for others.Sendai Mebuki Holdings research office addresses these hurdles with a comprehensive array of reporting on Asian securities of all types. Their current number of employees in Seoul is around 120, which is scheduled to grow to 200 by 2021, giving Sendai Mebuki Holdings a unique capacity for gathering up-to-the-moment information on Asian equities and bonds. This reporting provides Sendai Mebuki Holdings a comprehensive suite of technical and fundamental analysis."The skills and instincts that make for successful investment in Western markets don't always guide investments in Asian markets in the same way," observes the new office's Director of Equity Research, 12-year industry veteran Chi Ho-Jin. "For most retail investors, the opportunities to purchase stocks and gain access into information has been challenging, thus investors are going through index funds or actively managed vehicles." "But those investors are leaving a lot of opportunity on the table. Our goal with Sendai Mebuki Holdings Research's new Seoul facility is to give investors worldwide the tools they need to invest in Asia just as confidently as they do in the West. That'll take a lot of work-trading mechanics are different across regions, and reporting requirements are even more varied. But Sendai Mebuki Holdings has made a huge investment here, and everyone from investors to capital markets themselves will benefit." Investors can look forward to more information and less ambiguity surrounding Asian equities, including rigorous reporting on earnings, revenues, cash flow, and other fundamentals that can be difficult for foreign investors to identify. This fundamental research informs Sendai Mebuki Holdings' technical analysis. Better fundamentals allow better pattern analysis, more complex and revealing technical indicators, and more accurate projections.Michael Fox, Head of Derivatives at Sendai Mebuki Holdings, is particularly excited about the Seoul facility's ability to benefit one particular trading strategy."Equity markets here in Asia are one of the biggest in the world, and they're governed by stronger transparency requirements and other regulations that you'll find elsewhere. That's tremendously reassuring to investors. When our clients have the information they need to invest in equities confidently, we think that that they'll be ready to create some enormously profitable strategies. Our job is to give them that confidence, and we're ready to do so." To learn more about how Sendai Mebuki Holdings Research is bringing the power and promise of Asian financial markets to the global investment community, please contact us at info@ smhpartners.com Contact Info:Name: Chi Ho-Jin, Director of Equity ResearchEmail: Send EmailOrganization: Chi Ho-Jin, Director of Equity ResearchAddress: 7F Haesung Building, 504 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea.Website: https://www.smhpartners.com/ SOURCE: Sendai Mebuki Holdings The outgoing minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Okechukwu Enelamah, has said the 13 major reforms initiated by his ministry were to facilitate the implementation of the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), the National Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) and speed up governance. In a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, the minister said the NIRP was initiated to help develop world-class Special Economic Zones to position Nigeria as the pre-eminent manufacturing hub in sub-Saharan Africa as well as a major exporter of made in Nigeria goods and services regionally and globally. The minister said Project MINE, (Made in Nigeria for Exports) was initiated to aid the structural transformation of the Nigerian economy by increasing the manufacturing sectors contribution to GDP to 20 per cent by 2025. Also, the minister said the project was aimed at contributing to sustainable, inclusive growth by creating 1.5 million new direct manufacturing jobs in the initial phase and to increase and diversify non-oil foreign exchange earnings to at least $30 billion annually by 2025, by increasing manufacturing sector exports. In February, the ministry said the Federal Government signed investment agreements with three Development Finance Institutions, namely Afreximbank, Bank of Industry and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), for the development of the project. The three DFIs, it said, are among a consortium of five who will partner with Nigeria SEZ Investment Company Limited (NSEZCO) and the Ministry of Finance Incorporated to implement the project. The other investment partners are Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and the African Development Bank (AfDB). The minister said to realise the project, NSEZCO had a meeting with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and the strategic investment partners in Abuja last week. During the meeting, the VP reportedly reaffirmed FGs endorsement of the strategies and plans put in place for the actualisation of the SEZs. Mr Osinbajo also assured the investors of the readiness of the Buhari administration to offer all the support required to complete their investments in the company. It is the vision and plan of the Buhari Administration for the country to be the pre-eminent manufacturing hub in Sub-Saharan Africa and a major exporter of manufactured products, he said. On governments commitment to Project MINE, he said as a Presidential Priority Intervention project, it will be used as Special Economic Zones to boost manufacturings share of their gross domestic product (GDP) to 20 per cent. About $30 billion is to be generated in annual export earnings, creating about 1.5 million new jobs in the export-oriented manufacturing value chain, the minister also said. Also, Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, who was at the meeting, explained the recent investigation into the affairs of the company. This, the ministry said, was to establish the integrity of the Federal Government and the propriety of its actions in the light of the negative perceptions created in the media. Other reforms The statement identified other reforms embarked on by the Ministry, including those in Trade and Intellectual Property Registration. To ensure trade policy agreements are effectively aligned with domestic regulations, laws and policy priorities that would lead to diversification of the economy, growth, modernisation and job creation, the Federal Government established the Nigerian Office for Trade Negotiations (NOTN) in May 2017. NOTN coordinates and manages Nigerias trade policy, formulate Nigerias trade negotiating priorities, negotiate Nigerias trade agreements as well as ensure domestic trade-related policy coherence. NOTN is in the process of updating Nigerias Trade Policy, which was last updated in 2002. In September 2018, it launched the process of preparing a 21st Century Trade Policy for Nigeria, tagged A Welfare and Prosperity Trade Agenda that Works for All. This was necessitated by the need to meet up with changes in domestic and international environments which have made it imperative to review the policy to reflect the current realities and emerging issues, specifically, trade and investment facilitation, electronic-commerce and digital economy, and regional integration, the statement noted. According to the release, the other reform is the Intellectual Property (IP) Registration, which has been made faster and more transparent. With the IP reforms the backlog of applications for registration and issuance of certificates dating back to 2012 have been cleared, and digitisation of the records of the registries has addressed the problems of missing files and inaccessible records. Also, for the first time in 51 years, since the Trademarks Act came into force, the Acting Registrar of Trademarks issued the Annual Report on the implementation of the Trademarks Act and the compendium of all opposition rulings in the Registry of Trademarks has been published, the ministry added. Advertisements More than 800,000 people will soon be immunised against cholera in North Kivu in the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The vaccination campaign will be implemented by the DRC Ministry of Health with support from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and partners and funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. According to a statement released by WHO on Tuesday, the campaign is aimed at containing the spread of cholera in the country. Since January, over 10,000 cases of cholera have been reported in the country, leading to more than 240 deaths. The country is also combating an Ebola outbreak which has killed over 1,000 people. Also, over 80,000 suspected cases of measles have led to over 1,400 deaths so far this year while a case of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 was reported in Kasai province earlier this month. WHO said to contain the cholera outbreak, 835,183 people in Binza, Goma, Kayina, Karisimbi, Kibirizi, Kirotshe and Rutshuru areas will be vaccinated by June 1. The campaign will administer the first of two doses of oral cholera vaccine (OCV) to people in these areas. Following successful implementation, a campaign to administer the second dose will take place at a later stage to provide full protection against cholera, it said. Unprecedented CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance Seth Berkley, said the DRC is confronted with an unprecedented combination of deadly epidemics. While the Ebola outbreak continues to cause untold misery in the East, measles and cholera epidemics are claiming the lives of thousands of people throughout the country. Thats why we are stepping up our response, through this cholera vaccination campaign, through ongoing measles vaccinations in health zones affected by measles outbreaks, as well as through our continued support for Ebola vaccinations in both the DRC and neighbouring countries. We cannot allow this needless suffering to continue. Cholera is a preventable disease. It is often associated with lack of water, good sanitation and hygiene. Acting WHO Representative in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Deo Nshimirimana, said vaccinating people at risk in the most exposed health zones in North Kivu against cholera is a massive contribution. This, he said, will protect hundreds of thousands of people against the disease and raise population immunity levels in these areas. WHO is working with national and provincial authorities and all partners to make sure that people targeted in these health areas will be reached with the vaccine. According to the international health agency, the 835,183 doses of oral cholera vaccine (OCV) were taken from the global cholera vaccine stockpile, which is fully funded by Gavi. Gavi is also supporting operational costs for the campaign. GAVI said since the stockpile was launched in 2013, millions of doses of OCV have helped tackle outbreaks across the globe. Since the beginning of 2019, more than six million doses have already been shipped to respond to outbreaks or address endemic cholera in countries including Mozambique, Nigeria, Somalia and Zimbabwe. More than two million people have also been vaccinated in the DRC in 72 health zones as part of a measles outbreak response funded by Gavi through the Measles & Rubella Initiative (MRI). Also, 400,000 people are expected to be vaccinated as part of this response. Gavi will also be funding a measles campaign for 18 million children aged six months-59 months starting later in the year. This will be additional to Gavis support for the governments efforts to strengthen routine immunisation which is the best long-term solution against measles outbreaks, the agency said. Advertisements Health experts and advocates have named period poverty as the main reason that young girls routinely stay away from school, especially in developing countries. Period poverty is when a girl cannot afford menstrual products during menstruation, which is approximately four days every four weeks. Such girls would often resort to unhygienic practices. Menstruation is an integral part of a womans life but is a nightmare for the over 1.2 billion women across the world who do not have access to basic sanitation during their periods, according to a study. Another report suggests that women who experience period poverty are likely to suffer from anxiety or depression. Period poverty though globally recognised still gets less attention in many parts of Africa. One in 10 African girls misses school during their periods, the UN childrens agency, UNICEF, estimates. This means they fall behind in their studies and often drop out of school. The National Democracy and Health Survey 2013, revealed that girls make up 60 per cent of the 10.5 million out-of-school children in Nigeria. Pad up The Encounter Ashley Lori, a health activist, formed a movement to end period poverty in Nigerian schools with her Pad-Up Africa campaign a menstrual sensitisation initiative. She began her advocacy in March 2018 after an encounter with some schoolgirls on the streets of Abuja, Nigerias capital. One day, I was moving and saw four girls in MabushiJabi area (of Abuja). They were with a newspaper stained with blood and I thought someone had injured herself so I stopped to check. One of them said she was trying to change her sanitary pad which was actually a rough old newspaper. She said the newspaper was what they use when I asked. I took them to a supermarket and got them pads. From there, I took them to their school, Mrs Lori narrated to PREMIUM TIMES. The health advocate said she was confronted with grimmer stories upon getting to the school. A girl in the school said she wore seven skirts during her period because she could not buy pads. The mother of three said the encounter motivated her to start the campaign. While the government appears lukewarm in tackling period poverty, many young Nigerians such as Mrs Lori have picked the baton. On Saturday morning, she led over a hundred youth to the Millennium Park for a march dubbed, One million pad campaign a walk for pad to raise awareness and demand free sanitary wears for school girls. The march came ahead of the world Menstrual Hygiene Day on Monday. Through previous campaigns, the 34-year-old activist said Pad-Up Africa has distributed free sanitary pads to schools, mostly in Abuja and its surroundings, and is now hoping to draw the attention of the government, international organisations and key players in the pad industry through the walk. They need to see the need for free pads for secondary school girls. If we can have condoms for free in schools, why not pads? Sex is a choice but periods are inevitable. Undeterred Young Nigerians Even before Saturdays march, many young Nigerians had been calling on the government to reduce or stop taxing female hygiene products. They also demanded that sanitary pads be distributed free to secondary school students and teenagers in rural areas. Advertisements Last October, they submitted a petition titled An appeal to end all the taxes on menstrual hygiene products (including sanitary pads) and pass the menstrual hygiene bill to the National Assembly. Despite these calls, the government is unmoved as menstrual products remain taxed resulting in higher prices of pads. Between 2015 and 2019, sanitary pads like Always Ultra rose from N250 to N400. Most Tampon brand products which sold for N750 have risen to about N1200. The hike is also linked to the fall in the exchange value of the national currency, the naira, as many women prefer foreign pads to locally manufactured products. (Even local products are also expensive due to taxes.) PREMIUM TIMES research showed that many Nigerian girls and young women now use cloth napkins, cotton wools and tissue paper due to escalating costs of tampons. Long Road to Free-pads A paucity of funds is chief among challenges to sustaining any advocacy for free pads said the young activist. She said some mothers disallow their daughters from collecting the free pads because they cannot sustain buying it for them. She said government, stakeholders and pad companies have a civic responsibility to give free pads in schools especially in rural areas and track them to ensure they are not sold. The government should find a way to subsidise or totally remove value-added taxes on pads. They should partner with pad companies. Ladi Ogoleye, the project manager of Pad-up Africa said the movement had engaged government agencies and institutions such as the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS), the National Assembly and even the First Lady (Aisha Buhari). We hope they give us an audience. Beyond Period Poverty Beyond period poverty, experts point to lack of water and poor or inadequate toilet facilities in schools as other reasons girls stay away from school during periods. A 2015 UNICEF survey revealed that most school toilets in Nigeria are unkempt with only 25 per cent having clean water, soap and sinks. Mrs Lori said some schools and communities they visited did not even have toilet facilities. The ones that have toilets lack water, thats why even girls who can afford tampons also stay away from schools in their periods. Government should make provision for toilets and water. They should also provide a small cubicle with sewage where girls can change their pads in schools, she said. Poor Awareness Cynthia Anyele said she was motivated to join the Pad-up Africa campaign by the poor awareness and stigma associated with menstruation. She shared an experience she had during her first period. I woke up and saw blood all over me and I was shocked. I was scared. I thought I was pregnant and I told my sister not to tell our parents. It took time before I realised I was just seeing my period. Parents dont go the extra length to educate young people on what to expect when they get to puberty stage. Millions of children out there dont know what to expect when they find themselves in the same situation as I was then and that is why am here. Free Pads: What Kenya Did? In 2017, PREMIUM TIMES reported how Kenya introduced a law giving schoolgirls right to free, sufficient and quality sanitary towels and a safe place to dispose of them. The law was aimed at making girls stay in school during their monthly flow. We are treating access to sanitary pads as a basic human right, government spokesman Eric Kiraithe had told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. The policy was estimated to cost Kenya 500 million shillings ($4.8 million) a year, Mr Kiraithe said. But just like many programmes by African governments, it remains vague whether this policy was sustained in Kenya. A report by Independent UK revealed how teenage girls trade sex for pads in the suburbs of Kenya, a year after the policy was announced. The sex for pads trend ultimately leads to unwanted pregnancy that will eventually force the girl to leave school entirely. The Supreme Court on Friday ruled against the elections of all the candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State in the 2019 general elections. The court ruled that the party did not conduct valid primaries in the build-up to the elections. It also decided that a party that had no valid candidate cannot be said to have emerged winner of the general elections. The court also ordered that the candidate with the second highest number of votes be declared winner of the election. On Saturday, the Independent National Electoral Commission confirmed Bello Matawalle of the Peoples Democratic Party, as the governor-elect of the north west state. It also confirmed other PDP candidates for the National and State Assembly seats. The new winners received their certificates of return on Monday. The ruling by the Supreme Court can be described as the climax of the political crisis currently rocking the state. One person, however, who played a prominent role in the loss of APCs hold in the state is a senator, Kabiru Marafa, who represents Zamfara Central. GENESIS Besides being at loggerheads with the state governor, Abdulaziz Yari, the lawmaker has blamed the ruling party for the crisis in the state countless times. Mr Marafa, who had lost his governorship aspiration during the controversial primaries, went ahead to form a faction of the party. The electoral commission, INEC, had said it would not allow the APC field candidates in Zamfara because the party did not hold primaries within the stipulated time. Internal wrangling among leaders of the APC in Zamfara led to the inability to hold the primaries within the stipulated time. While the APC faction loyal to Governor Yari claimed it held congresses and had candidates, the faction loyal to Mr Marafa, insisted no primaries held. Although the party headquarters said no primaries held but consensus candidates were adopted within the stipulated time, the faction, led by the senator and 139 others, filed a suit against the party. The plaintiffs were represented by a senior lawyer, Mike Ozekhome. Two different courts in Zamfara and Abuja later gave conflicting judgments on the position of INEC. A High Court sitting in Gusau, Zamfara State, ruled that the governing APC actually conducted primaries in the state and should be allowed to present candidates for the electoral contest while an Abuja court ruled otherwise. The Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, on February 21 set aside the judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja, for lack or want of jurisdiction on the part of the lower court. The electoral body respected this by including the names of APC candidates on ballot papers. Marafa plods on While the court process stalled, Mr Marafa did not succumb to pressure. He maintained that there was no primary election in the state and condemned the leadership of the party for supporting some candidates. Even after one of the appellants and member of the House of Representatives, Aminu Jaji, withdrew his appeal, the lawmaker remained unshaken. Mr Jaji had withdrawn his appeal challenging the judgment of a Zamfara State High Court asking INEC to recognise candidates of the APC for various offices in Zamfara State. At a point when preparation for the elections were in top gear, Mr Marafa said he did not give a damn if APC lost the elections in Zamfara. He challenged the party leadership for being biased in its decision and also called for the resignation of the state governor. He also recommended that Mr Yari should be prosecuted for treason. No compromise. Let him resign as governor, let me resign as senator and let us go and meet the people for elections. If he gets 10 per cent of what I get, I will resign. So, what else do I need. I think I am overripe to die if you want to kill me. They will say he died at the age of almost 60. I think it is a very good number. What I am afraid only is how I die. I dont want to die telling lies. Advertisements I dont want to die procuring false and illegal judgements. If you come with that kind of thing, I will run. I dont want to die, spending security votes when I resign as chief security officer. To me, AbdulAziz is supposed to be prosecuted for treason because what they did was treason and if allowed to stand, then we are laying a very bad precedence in this country. A day will come when maybe a president will do a similar thing, he said while speaking at a press briefing. Amidst the brawl with the state governor and his faction, Mr Marafa had said it will be better to have another party in Zamfara than to have bad ones from APC just because APC wants to win. Bitter, sweet victory Although not in his favour, the ruling comes as a win for Mr Marafa in his quest for justice. Political analysts also say the ruling has given the lawmaker bragging rights over the state governor who has been his political foe for a while. In his reaction to the ruling, the lawmaker said it is a sweet, bitter but a huge victory for democracy. He said Mr Yari, the outgoing governor, had locked horns over control of the states chapter of APC prior to the partys primaries. No matter how long, truth will always prevail over falsehood. Todays judgement is a victory for democracy, triumph of truth over falsehood and redeemer of the integrity of the judiciary. According to him, as we all know, the APC was unable to conduct primaries in Zamfara, following Mr Yaris thuggery and violent machinations. He also urged his adversaries to take the judgement as the will of Allah and a lesson that only Allah, the Almighty, can crown a king. Judiciary remains the last hope of the common man, therefore all hands must be on deck to strengthen it, he said. In his reaction, Mr Yari said the ruling was the will of God. He said, the members have also done their best in ensuring the viability and capability of the party to continue to hold on to power to provide more dividends of democracy to the people of the state, but as Allah wanted it, the Supreme Court judgement went the way it happened. President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday indicated that he may retain some ministers, as his first term winds down. The president said in an interview aired on NTA Monday night that he had asked ministers to submit their records of achievement and expect to leave the cabinet, but he was considering whether some would stay during his next four years which begins on May 29. The president asked ministers to submit their performance earlier this week and prepare to leave office. He said he would focus on law enforcement and judiciary in order to make both institutions efficient for citizens. I will make the police and the judiciary much more efficient. They are at the forefront of law enforcement, the president said. He also promised to be tougher on incompetent officials in the security sector. I will find out who is responsible where they are not efficient, Mr Buhari said. The president has been widely criticised for failing to sack security chiefs, amidst widespread breaches that have cost thousands of Nigerian lives. Boko Haram has killed hundreds of Nigerian soldiers since it launched a campaign against military formation in July 2018 alone. The police have also been condemned for failing to tame armed robbery, kidnapping and other violent crimes that have kept citizens awake at night. President Muhammadu Buhari has attributed some of the security challenges faced by Nigerians to the failure of the police and likely deterioration in the military after he left service. The president who officially begins his second term in office on May 29, following his reelection on February 23, stated this in an interview with Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). The interview was aired on Monday. Mr Buhari also commented on the economy, food security, security, appointment of ministers, his relationship with the leadership of the Senate and other topics pertaining to his last four years in office. While responding to a question on rampant cases of kidnapping, across the country, the president stressed that those culpable have not been brought to book due to the ineptitude of the police. Those perpetrating this evil come from somewhere in Nigeria. Their neighbourhoods know them. The community leaders and also the police are in the front line. They (the police) were not giving the position and uniforms to impress anybody but to secure the people. In this, I feel the community leadership and police to some extent have failed this country. Mr Buhari also spoke of a decline in the quality of the Nigerian military, saying he had passed through virtually all the top ranks having served in the Lagos, Ibadan and Jos divisions of the army. The security in relation to when I was in command has really gone down. I can not claim to know what happened after I left the military. But definitely, I did not know person to person all the service chiefs. I am still expecting more but Im thinking of what happened between 1999 to 2014, Mr. Buhari said. I suspect that a lot of things went wrong including accountability and efficiency of the military and law enforcement agencies, he said. He stated that the police and the judiciary will be focused on for improvement in delivering justice during his second term. I will try to make the police and the judiciary to be more efficient. There is no town where we dont get a police station. They are supposed to be the front line of law and order. In some communities, if anyone steals, they know from which family who stole or which kind of criminal. This is what I want the police to achieve- absolute community security. To know the criminals around them and get them prosecuted. Noting the effect of insecurity on the economy, the president explained that the rate of kidnapping is capable of discouraging foreign investors. We are making noise that people should come and invest their money. But who will bring his money when his General Manager will be abducted? The government cannot build all the factories required and employ all the people and produce all the goods and services. What the government should do is to provide security and convince entrepreneurs both from abroad and local places to invest and encourage people to produce goods and services, he said. He urged Nigerians to expose kidnappers and thieves as their contribution to fighting insecurity in the country. The presidents statement comes amidst worsening insecurity across Nigeria. PREMIUM TIMES reported how about 36 people were killed by bandits, terrorists and kidnappers while at least 27 people were kidnapped in different states including Edo, Kaduna and Osun. Today makes it 250 days since Nigerias Minister of Communication, Adebayo Shittu, was busted for deliberately skipping the mandatory National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC), an offence punishable under the law with up to 12 months imprisonment. Section 2 (1) of the NYSC Act makes it compulsory for all Nigerians who earn degrees or higher national diplomas from tertiary institutions home and abroad (effective 1972/73 session) to participate in the scheme. Employers are mandated by law to request this certificate of national service as part of the conditions for hiring. Those exempted according to the law are those who graduated after their 30th birthday, those with national honours and people who serve in the military and intelligence organisations. Before Mr Shittu was busted, former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun was forced to resign after she was exposed by PREMIUM TIMES to have submitted a forged NYSC exemption certificate. She departed the country after her resignation without being charged for forgery. Amidst this scandal, the All Progressives Congress (APC) disqualified Mr Shittu from taking part in Oyo governorship primary election last year. Genesis Mr Shittu graduated from the then University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife) at the age of 25 in 1978 and proceeded to law school immediately after graduation, qualifying as a lawyer in 1979. While he was expected to go for national service, he got elected into the Oyo State House of Assembly in the 1979 general elections. Without presenting himself for service afterwards, he later became attorney general and commissioner for justice in Oyo State. He also served as member of the Oyo State Judicial Service Commission from 2004 to 2007. President Buhari nominated him, in 2015, for the position of minister of communication and this, was approved upon legislative screening without the SSS, and the National Assembly, discovering the illegality. Higher Service Rather than accept wrongdoing, Mr Shittu admitted he deliberately boycotted the NYSC scheme. He made a case for himself that his membership at the state assembly when he graduated was equivalent to service. The constitution provides for the qualification needed for state assembly members, NYSC is not there, I didnt need it to become a member of the state assembly, and that is already a service, he said. He also disagreed that he has similar case with Mrs. Adeosun Former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun (Photo Credit: Chronicle.ng) I left Law School in 1979. And the Constitution says anyone who qualifies to contest an election or who has gone through an election and wins, he is obligated to move through the House of Assembly which I did for four years. So, it is a form of higher service as far as Im concerned, and even now, I am still in service. I dont think I have violated the law except someone has a superior argument and can prove it. Unfortunately, Kemi had a fake certificate, I didnt present any, I didnt have one. I simply followed the constitutional requirement that if you are qualified to contest an election, it is compulsory for you to serve the nation in the capacity that you won an election, he said. Lies Meanwhile, a detailed fact-check done by Dubawa, an initiative of Premium Times Centre for Investigative Journalism, revealed that Mr Shittus claim that his service as an elected member of the old Oyo State House of Assembly, in the defunct Second Republic, was equivalent to the compulsory one year NYSC is false. When contacted then, the spokesperson of the NYSC, Adenike Adeyemi, said political office has nothing to do with compulsory service. The Minister of Communication, Adebayo Shittu, [Photo credit: THISDAYLIVE] You have read the Act and you can see the circumstances where someone is exempted. You analyse it, if he [Shittu] was exempted duly or there is a reason why he should have served. But the Act is very straightforward on the grounds for not coming up to serve. If you are a graduate locally trained or foreign trained, as long as you graduate before the age of 30, you are expected to serve. Whether foreign or locally trained, the law is the same. Our youth should be rightly guided that if you were able to complete your studies and as of the date of graduation, you are under 30, you are eligible to serve. A Lagos-based lawyer, Muniru Abeedeen, in his reaction to Dubawa then said the interpretation by Mr Shittu is an insult to legal practice. Advertisements How can he say serving as a member of the state assembly is equivalent to NYSC. Thats an insult to legal practice. He should rather surrender himself and accept defeat. The law is clear even to a lay man. Another Lawyer, Kayode Ashiru, also condemned Mr Shittus argument. There is nothing contrasting in the law. The NYSC decree is well spelt out that serving is compulsory, as long as you graduate before 30. He was serving his constituency and pocket as an assembly member not Nigeria. So, it is not equivalent. APC takes action Following PREMIUM TIMES revelation, the APC excluded Mr Shittus name from the list of gubernatorial aspirants in the March 9 general elections. The APC national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, said then that the party considered Mr. Shittus action of skipping the NYSC an offence that disqualifies him from contesting to be governor. He admitted that he did not do the mandatory NYSC as provided for under the law and in his own judgment, his being a member of the House of Assembly in the state and now as a minister of the federal republic that these were enough sacrifices. But for us as a party, we know that NYSC is a mandatory scheme. It is not something you may elect to do or abstain from doing. And my understanding of the NYSC Act is that no employer of labour is permitted to employ anyone who graduated under 30 years and who did not obtain an exemption for reasons as provided for in the NYSC Act. So, for us, not participating in the NYSC raises very serious moral issue as well as legal issue. Anyway, we were convinced that if he did not do NYSC, that for us was enough to disqualify him and we had to find the courage to do so, Mr Oshiomhole said. Disappointed with his disqualification by the party, Mr Shittu filed a suit marked FHC/IB/CS/111/2018 against his party. He prayed the court to determine whether the action of his party to omit his name in the list of gubernatorial aspirants was lawful or a contravention of the constitution because he did not participate in the NYSC scheme. Meanwhile, the court on April 12 struck out the case. The court dismissed the case due to the fact that Mr Shittu did not file the case within the time stipulated by law. Having failed to satisfy the dictates of the constitution, the court refused going into the merit of the case. Defiant President Meanwhile, President Buhari has refused to take any measures to sanction his appointee despite the fact that many Nigerians have called for his removal. Femi Adesina, the spokesperson to Mr Buhari did not respond to a PREMIUM TIMES request to speak on the issue. Mr Buharis second term, which will last for another four years, is expected to commence on Wednesday, May 29. The president in a televised interview indicated he would reappoint some ministers. He did not indicate if Mr Shittu would be reappointed despite violating Nigerian law. The deputy chairman (North) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Lawal Shuaibu, has called for the resignation of the partys chairman, Adams Oshiomhole. In a letter to the chairman dated May 27, 2019, the top official declared Mr Oshiomholes leadership a failure. Mr Shuaibu, a former senator from Zamfara State, said the party chairman was squarely responsible for the partys loss in his home state. The Supreme Court on Friday ended a winding legal tussle on the emergence of APCs candidates for various posts in Zamfara state. The court invalidated votes cast for the party in the elections and directed the electoral body, INEC, to recognise the runner-ups for various positions. Mr Shuaibu, in a five-page open letter, said Mr Oshiomhole caused the party to lose the seats. He also listed other dwindling fortunes of the party, which he said is on the path of extinction, to buttress his claims. We had 23 states in 2015 but after the elections we lost 7 states. We also had 60 senators in 2015, at the end of the election count we end up with 57 in 2019, Mr Shuaibu wrote. He said with the partys decline under his leadership, Mr Oshiomhole should not be prompted before he bows out. In advanced democracies, people who fail to add value or build over what they met on assumption of duty show some civilised example, they honourably bow out, he wrote. A spokesperson for the party, Lanre Issa-Onilu, said he could not comment since the letter was not addressed to the party. Mr Oshiomholes spokesperson, Simon Ebegbulem, did not respond to phone calls and a text message to his phone on Tuesday. Read full text of the letter: Nigerias former Minister of State for Health, Muhammad Pate, has received two appointments from the World Bank Group and the public health graduate school of Harvard University: Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health. Mr Pate was appointed earlier this May by the World Bank Group as the Global Director of Health, Nutrition and Population (HNP) and Director, Global Financing Facility (GFF), in Washington DC. At about the same time, he was also appointed by the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health as Julio Frenk Professor of Public Health Leadership in the Department of Global Health and Population. Both appointments are effective from July 1, 2019. However, the Harvard T. H. Chan School said Mr Pate will be on leave while he serves as the Global Director for HNP and GFF. In his new position with the World Bank Group, Ali Pate will lead, develop and communicate the vision and strategic direction of the HNP and the GFF, as well as the linkages to the Human Capital Project; ensure that global priorities are effectively integrated into country programmes; oversee the delivery of high-quality global engagements; and work closely with the HNP practice affiliated regional directors. He will effectively oversee strategic staffing and talent management for staff in the HNP practice and the GFF to deploy and create knowledge and solutions. Established in 2015, the GFFs goal is to end preventable maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent deaths and improve the health and quality of life of women, children, and adolescents. The GFF is a new model of development financing for the sustainable development goals (SDGs) that helps governments to prioritize critical health and nutrition areas and brings together multiple financing sources to close the funding gap for reproductive, maternal newborn, child, and adolescent health and nutrition (RMNCAH-N) by 2030. The GFF monetary arm, which is the GFF Trust Fund, provides part of the financing countries need for their investment in RMNCAH-N and it is linked to funding from the International Development Association (IDA) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD). In 2018, donors, including the Gates Foundation, the European Commission, Norway, Japan, Cote dIvoire and Burkina Faso, pledged over $1 billion for the GFF. According to the World Bank, Mr Pate was selected to the position through the Bank-wide competitive managerial selection process. He had previously worked with the World Bank: he joined the Bank as a young professional in 2000 and worked on health issues such HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria in several regions including Africa and the East Asia and Pacific. Until recently, he was the Chief Executive Officer of Big Win Philanthropy a UK-based organisation that invests in children and young adults in developing countries to improve their living standard and maximise demographic dividends for economic growth. Prior to Mr Pates appointment as Nigerias Minister of State for Health in 2011, he had successfully served as the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). In 2013, he resigned as the Minister of State for Health to join the Duke Universitys Global Health Institute, where he served as a visiting professor and taught comparative health systems to postgraduate students. Mr Pate studied at the Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria. He obtained his Master of Science in health systems management from the London School of Hygiene and Tropic Medicine, and his Master of Business Administration with a Certificate in Health Sector Management from Duke University. The federal government has urged the benefiting states of Kebbi and Zamfara to take ownership of the newly installed Centre Pivot Irrigation systems to turn around the agricultural sector and promote food security. An official of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, Adeyinka Adenopo, made the call during a visit to project sites to assess their functionality ahead of full hand over to the river basins on Tuesday. He said the federal government is looking at the fastest means of achieving food security, adding that the need for irrigation agriculture had become imperative. We consider this a very short gestation means of irrigation, and actually all over the world, it is considered an efficient system. We are new in the technology in Nigeria, even though it is well advanced in the world generally. Our biggest challenge is manpower, operation and maintenance of the system, and of course, this is what we have been discussing with the contractor; the need for training of the people that will man the project. If that is done, then we would have overcome a very big challenge that it poses, he said. Mr Adenopo expressed the hope that the project conceived years back was being materialised, adding that with duplication of similar systems across the country, the dream would have been realised. He noted that due to delay in agreement on paperwork, terms and conditions, the handover to the river basins was stalled. Mr Adenopo expressed the hope that all technical work and modalities would be perfected. Jerry Cunningham of Waste Management and Environmental Solutions said the centre pivot irrigation system was the latest irrigation technology to develop farmlands. He said farmers could double and triple their yields in a sustainable manner. According to him, this popular method has changed farming globally while its availability in the country would help to cultivate larger farm sizes for agricultural development. Here, we have not had much trouble, its just vandalism from the herdsmen with the cows. As long as you keep farming, you dont have a problem, its when you let the green grass grow, the cows will come in, so it takes little more in security and management of the area. I think once the programme starts and you see all the community members out here working, it will make a big difference. Once all the farmers are working in the farm, the herdsmen will stay away, he said. Earlier, an official of Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority, Abdullahi Danmagaji, said sustainable agriculture development would be achieved with manpower development. He said the basin authority was discussing with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to ascertain modalities to train its staff on sustainable practices. Mr Danmagaji said the communities would also be carried along to take ownership. 3000 farming households to benefit He said that no fewer than 3,000 farming households would benefit from the 700 hectares irrigation system. Initially, our yield per hectare was four tonnes per hectare before the coming of this administration, but now, we are very proud to say that our farmers can produce as much as eight tonnes per hectare, he said. Advertisements The Director, Irrigation and Drainage in the ministry, Elijah Aderibigbe, had said with the security challenge in some states, vandalisation of some irrigation infrastructure had occurred. He called on benefiting states to take ownership of the projects and also ensure that security of water infrastructure was made a top priority. Mr Aderibigbe said participatory irrigation concept would help to promote sustainability of projects. Some of the components of this centre pivot irrigation systems are being removed, they vandalise them, making part of it spoons while the tyres are cut in pieces as slippers. Meanwhile, all over the world, these are the systems that are called the low-hanging fruits. So, its really a problem, in fact the system should have been expanded all over the country. Technically, it is viable, but the ministry is a bit sceptical about it, he said. Mr Aderibigbe urged the river basins to speedily build perimeter fences to protect the facilities while state governments and communities should protect them. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the team from the Department of Irrigation and Drainage in the Federal Ministry of Water Resources was led by Mr Adenopo. (NAN) The Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, on Tuesday warned Army personnel against disclosing classified information through unauthorized social media platforms. He gave the warning while declaring open a five-day workshop on Army Officers Office Management and Document Security Workshop at 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, Kaduna. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 160 officers within the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and below are attending the workshop from different army formations across the country. Mr Buratai, who was represented by the Director of Administration, Army Headquarters, Kuta Isyaku, explained that the army had an extant policy which prohibited the use of social media to disclose service matters. He said that the army cyber warfare command had capacity to monitor and deal effectively with issues, including management of the social media. The army chief said that the workshop targeted the officers because of the important role they played in proper handling and management of service documents, some of which were highly classified. According to him, disclosure of the content of such documents could be injurious to national security. Earlier, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 1 Division, Kaduna, Faruq Yahaya, had explained that the workshop was meant to refresh the minds of officers on their roles. According to him, the workshop will also enhance their skills in office management and security of classified documents. Mr Yahaya, however, noted that office management had helped the army in the past to draw useful lessons that assisted in identifying gaps in management and document security. (NAN) A 20-year-old man was on Tuesday flogged 40 lashes for eating a mango fruit during Ramadan. Ibrahim Ismail was found guilty of eating during the Islamic holy month by an upper Shariah court in Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State. The judge, Safiyanu Yau, ordered that the victim should be flogged 40 times in a market square to served as a deterrent to others. He said the action of the victim contravenes section 370 of penal code law of Jigawa State. The victim, Mr Ismail, was earlier arrested and prosecuted by the state Hisbah board (also known as the Sharia police) for eating a mango while other healthy Muslims are observing the Ramadan fast. The flogging exercise took place at Ringim market square after a court official read before the public the offence committed by Mr Ismail. The court official stated that the offender will receive forty lashes for eating mango in public as ordered by the judge. People should witness the flogging and help count the lashes, the official said. Jigawa, like many states in Northern Nigeria, uses the penal code which takes a lot from the Islamic Shariah law. There are also Shariah courts and judges in the Northern states to implement the law. Healthy adult Muslims are expected to fast from dawn to dusk during the 30 days of Ramadan. The Director-General of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Shuaibu Ibrahim, has identified insecurity and the penchant by corp members for influencing their places of primary assignment as some of the challenges facing the scheme currently. He also urged relevant stakeholders to assist the corps in tackling the other challenges limiting the optimal performance of the corps. He said this at the NYSC Batch B pre-mobilisation workshop which held in Abuja on Tuesday. The workshop was titled Achieving greater efficiency in the NYSC mobilization process: The Role of Stakeholders. The growing insecurity in the country with its attendant lobby for the preferential posting of corps members calls for greater synergy among stakeholders to proffer solutions to the identified challenges, he said The official also said it is time to take full advantage of the many ICT applications to finetune the operations of the scheme. According to him, the new ICT-driven, NYSC is gaining acceptance across the broad spectrum of stakeholders and the general public in spite of the numerous challenges. Mr Ibrahim said that it shows that they (NYSC) were heading in the right direction. The official said the lessons learnt from the implementations of decisions from past workshops are expected to influence deliberations towards a better performance in the next mobilisation exercise. At the event, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Muhammad Bello, said the FCT administration would continue to support the scheme within the limit of its available resources. The Minister said the administration was delighted with the choice of Abuja as the venue for the workshop. We will continue to improve on the facilities in the Permanent Orientation Camp and the security and welfare of corps members deployed to the Federal Capital Territory, he said. The Minister, who was represented by the Secretary of Social Development for the FCT, Safiya Umar, said the workshop is a forum where stakeholders in the mobilisation process rub minds on the challenges of the previous mobilisation exercise and draw up a roadmap for the next mobilisation. Mrs Umar called on all participants to make valuable contributions to the success of the workshop and the mobilisation process in general. The current Director General of NYSC, Mr Ibrahim, was appointed on April 26. He replaced Suleiman Kazaure who occupied the position since April 2016. He is the 18th DG of NYSC. President Muhammadu Buhari said on Monday that Nigerian elite have never been in support of his political ambitions. He said they should thank ordinary citizens for making him a leader and, therefore, saving everyone from acute leadership failure. The president said the elite have always pushed a candidate they believe would be amenable to their political and economic interests, but Nigerians saw through their selfishness and settled on him without preconditions. They want to impress and they try to dictate the terms for government, the president said during an interview aired on NTA Monday. I contested three times before I won the fourth time. The elite should thank the rest of other Nigerians who voted for him (me). Mr Buhari said Nigerians supported him massively during the campaign, a gesture that moneybags could not have been able to procure. People trooped out to see him on the campaign trail, which means that the elite had always been in the minority. Nigerians understood me, the president said. Mr Buhari said he travelled across the country during the course of four election cycles, building alliances and familiarising himself with the grassroots. There is no local government in Nigeria I have never visited between 2003 and now, Mr Buhari said. The interview comes two days before Mr Buhari would be sworn-in for a second term of four years. The Nigerian leader won re-election on February 23 with nearly four million votes, according to the electoral commission. A Chief Magistrates Court in Kano, on Tuesday, ordered the arrest of three persons, including Mannir Sanusi, the Chief of Staff to the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II. The three were dragged before the court by the Kano State Public Complainant and Anti-corruption Commission for failing to honour its invitation in a N4 billion fraud investigation against the Emir of Kano. Chief Magistrate Mohammed Idris ordered the arrest of Mr Sanusi, who holds the traditional title of Damburan Kano, Mujitaba Abba and the Accountant of Kano Emirate Council, Sani Muhammad-Kwaru, over their alleged refusal to honour the commissions invitation. The commission wrote to the court seeking an order of arrest against the three palace officials. Mr Idris consequently issued and signed the arrest warrant sequel to a motion by Salisu Tahir, Chief State counsel. Mr Tahir had said that the request was based on the provision of Section 38 of the enabling Law establishing the Commission. NAN recalled that the Commission had invited four people in connection to the allegation, of which only one person, Isa Bayero, alias Isa Pilot, who was a former scribe to the Emirate Council, honoured the invitation. When contacted, the Chairman of the commission, Muhiyi Magaji, said the three persons that have an arrest warrant on their heads are the principal suspects in the case. He said the commission had already requested security operatives to enforce the order and arrest the three persons. (NAN) A Lagos division of the federal high court on Tuesday returned a former director-general of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Calistus Obi, to prison. Mojisola Olatoregun, the judge, ordered that Mr Obi stay in Ikoyi Prisons till June 3 when she would deliver sentencing in his case. The judge gave the order after lawyers of the defendant made various pleas for lenient sentencing for the accused. Mrs Olatoregfun said the decision was to enable her to resolve all issues raised in the plea for leniency made by the defence counsel to the court. In line with Section 390, we would adjourn one more time. I will like to look at the issues raised. I would give a very short date. We would come back June 3rd just to read the sentencing, she said while adjourning the matter. Prosecuting counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, had prayed the court to apply the maximum sentence on the defendants. He said the court needed to send a strong signal to public officials who are thinking of dipping their hands into public funds. My Lord, this is the time we must begin to send a strong signal to public servants and those entrusted with public funds not to breach the trust reposed on them as My Lord affirmed in this case. Mr Oyedepo also asked the court to, in addition to the punishment prescribed by the anti-money laundering Act, order the convicts to pay compensation to any victim of the crime which he said would be NIMASA. He also asked that the court make them refund monies lost to the federal government. In his prayer, the counsel to the 1st, 3rd and 4th defendants, Mobolaji Kuti, said his clients were first-time offenders and, therefore, the court should not grant the prayers of the maximum sentence made by the prosecution. By virtue of section 416 subsection 2(d), a trial court shall not impose maximum sentencing on a first time offender. He also said that the first defendant, Mr Obi, was a family man who had various people as dependents and has also engaged in various public service, humanitarian and charity endeavours prior to his arraignment. He pleaded that these should, therefore, be considered by the court. Mr Kuti asked the court to dismiss the prosecutions prayer asking the court to mandate the convicts to pay further fines, stating that the provisions were optional and not mandatory. Section 321 of the ACJA referred to buy my learned colleague, it is not mandatory. The section provides that after conviction, the court may impose further fine on the defendants. I want the court to consider that the supposed victim has never complained. The counsel to the 2nd defendant Collins Ogbonna, prayed the court to grant his client a non-custodian sentence instead. According to Mr. Ogbonna, the whole gamut of sentencing is at the discretion of the court as stated by section 416 subsection 2 of the ACJA 2015 and how such discretion will be exercised from paragraph A-K. Two things stand out regarding the 2nd defendant. One, he is a junior staff and P.A to the ex-DG NIMASA, Patrick. Secondly, the prosecution through one of its witnesses, the IPO, testified that the monies, N111 million which he was convicted for converting, none of it came to the 2nd defendant. He was more of a conduit pipe for the monies. Mr Ogbonna also said the prosecution had not established that the 2nd defendant would constitute any form of nuisance or danger to the society. He urged the judge to instead give him non-custodial sentencing. Being just a conduit pipe, I urge My lordship to please give justice a human face. He has a wife and five kids, the last one is a year old. His wife is a full housewife and has no income and he also has an 84-year-old father whom he takes care of his financial and health needs at their home in Bayelsa. He also said section 453 of the ACJA provides for non-custodial sentencing and that section 454 provides for circumstances where such can apply which includes character, antecedents and health. Mr Obi was charged by the EFCC on an eight-count charge alongside one Alu Dismas P.A to former DG NIMASA Patrick Akpobolokemi, Grand pact LTD and Global Seal Investment LTD. On May 23, the court had found Mr Obi guilty of count five, six, seven and eight of the charges and found Mr Dismas guilty of count two and four of the charge. President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday said decades of neglect and resource mismanagement have led the nation into deep poverty and insecurity. He said if the assets and resources available to Nigeria had been properly managed, the country would be prosperous and peaceful. According to a statement Tuesday afternoon by his special adviser on media and publicity, Femi Adesina, the president spoke at the State House, Abuja, while receiving in audience the board of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, led by the Group Chairman, Emmanuel Ikazoboh. The statement quoted the president as saying his government was not only determined to reverse the trend of squandermania and mismanagement, we have made progress in some areas such as agriculture. He appealed to Ecobank Transnational Incorporated to institute a special fund to develop agriculture, which will cement your legacy as a bank that helped to transform this regions economic fortunes. While stressing that the government remained committed to the goals of securing the country, inclusive economic growth and fighting corruption, Mr Buhari said Nigeria was in a unique position as the most populous and resource-rich nation on the African continent. He said the resources would be harnessed and properly managed, to engender a prosperous and peaceful country. Mr Buhari commended Ecobank for being active in promoting financial inclusion, noting that it is key to the governments diversification agenda. Speaking on requests by the bank for decongestion of Apapa ports, and rebuilding of the transnational Lagos-Badagry-Seme road, Mr Buhari said We are aware and are working in all those areas and by the grace of God, you will start seeing results during my second term in office. Mr Ikazoboh said the Ecobank Group is in 36 countries in Africa and 40 globally. The bank founded 30 years ago by the private sector entrepreneurs, has over 20 million customers, with over eight million of them in Nigeria. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reacted to the acquittal of Robert Azibaola, a cousin to the former president, Goodluck Jonathan, who was charged for $40 million fraud. According to a statement signed by its spokesperson, Tony Orilade, and made available to PREMIUM TIMES on Tuesday, the commission described Mr Azibaola acquittal as unfortunate. PREMIUM TIMES on Monday reported how an Abuja Division of the Federal High Court discharged Mr Azibaola of laundering charges filed against him by the Anti-graft agency. The judge, Nnamdi Dimgba, accused the prosecutor of failing to produce the former National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki as a witness. Mr Dasuki is in the custody of the State Security Service. Back Story The EFCC had in 2016 filed a seven-count charge against Mr Azibaola, his wife, Stella, and their company, saying that they received $40 million worth of illicit contract from Mr Dasuki. They were arraigned on June 7, 2016, and were admitted to bail in the sum of N500 million each. They were re-arraigned on April 27, 2017, on a nine-count amended charge. In the course of the trial, the prosecution called 10 witnesses and tendered 27 documented evidence against the three parties and closed its case. Subsequently, Mr Azibaola and One Plus company were ordered to open their defence on the remaining two counts, as Stellas name was struck off the charge sheet. He denied diverting money to his personal use. On February 6, his defence team led by Chris Uche closed its defence after calling two witnesses, including Mr Azibaola, and presenting several documents. Legal Pursue The anti-graft agency also said its legal team would study the judgement and take necessary actions to appeal it. Will be studying the judgement thoroughly and will be taking necessary actions to appeal it as we hope that the appellate court shall view the merit of the prosecution and do justice to the case. The EFCC expressed concern that despite the weight of evidence brought before the court and witnesses presented, Justice Dimgba held that, the prosecution must show directly how the defendant took possession of funds and knew that it forms part of proceeds of corruption, the statement reads. Abubakar Bello, governor of Niger State has dissolved the State Executive Council and directed all commissioners to hand over the affairs of their ministries to their permanent secretaries. He also directed other political appointees to handover to the most senior civil servant in their departments or agencies. The directives are in a statement by Jibrin Ndace, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor in Minna. Mr Ndace stated that the governor gave the directives during a valedictory session of the council on Monday night. He noted that the governor commended members of the Executive Council and Special Advisers and directed that all handover should be done on or before 12 midnight on Tuesday. He expressed his appreciation to the council members for offering themselves to serve the state. The governor said, I want to express my profound gratitude to all of you. I appreciate your commitment to the service of our dear state. You all have contributed immensely to the social contract we had with our people four years ago. The modest actualisation of the `Restoration Agenda was a product of our collective efforts. I want to wish every one of you success in your future endeavours while I implore you all to remain committed to the development of our dear state. Your valuable contributions are highly appreciated and I make bold to say that you all have done well. The valedictory session had in attendance, members of the state Executive Council, Special Advisers, Permanent Secretaries, Local Government Directors of Personnel Management, Departments, Ministries and other stakeholders. (NAN) The Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has ordered the immediate posting of Ahmed Iliyasu as the Commissioner of Police in Kano. According to a statement issued by the police spokesperson, Frank Mba, on Monday, the official takes over from Wakili Mohammed. Mr Mohammed retired from the Force on May 26, after 35 years of service. Mr Iliyasu, who holds a Masters Degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, was until his recent deployment, the Force Provost Marshal, Force Headquarters, Abuja. He had also held command position as the Commissioner of Police in charge of Ogun State Command from 2016 to January, 2019. The new commissioner is expected to bring to bear his wide policing and law enforcement experience in managing the complex security challenges in the beautiful and ancient city of Kano, the police said. Meanwhile, Mr Adamu wishes Mr Mohammed a blissful retirement, the statement noted. The posting is with immediate effect. The Kaduna Governorship Election Petition Tribunal on Tuesday struck out the motion of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) seeking the recount of votes cast in the governorship elections in the state. The tribunal dismissed the motion for lack of merit. The Chairman of the Tribunal, Ibrahim Bako, a judge, while ruling on the motion said the tribunal has a timeline of only 180 days within which to complete its assignment and would not accommodate the motion seeking for the recount of the votes. The tribunal also refused the application for amendment of the motion that sought to narrow the votes recount exercise to only 12 local government areas of the state. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalled that the motion was brought before the tribunal by the PDP and its governorship candidate in the March 9 election, Alhaji Isa Ashiru. Counsel to both PDP and Ashiru, Emmanuel Ukala (SAN), had on May 25 applied for the amendment of the motion for the votes recounts to be done in Kaduna North, Kaduna South, Igabi, Birnin Gwari, Giwa, Zaria, Sabon Gari, Makarfi, Kudan, Kubau, Soba and Ikara local government areas, mostly won by the APC. However, the tribunal chairman ruled that the motion be struck out, thus ending the pre-hearing session of the petition. He then adjourned to June 15 to begin hearing in the main petition filed by the PDP and Ashiru. Meanwhile, counsel to Nasiru El-Rufai, Abdulhakeem Mustapha, that of the All Progressives Congress, Lawal Bawa, and Aliyu Umar of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), who had objected to the motion, said they were happy with the ruling. They said the verdict was a reflection of the position of the law and commended the tribunal for ruling in their favour. The counsel told journalists in separate interviews at the end of the sitting that they were ready for the hearing in the main suit scheduled to begin on June 15. Mr Mustapha, the counsel to El-Rufai, said that they were ready to defend the re-election of the governor. According to him, the defence would provide all needed documents and evidence to defend the mandate given to El-Rufai before the tribunal. But Elisha Kura, counsel to the PDP, told journalists that the party would challenge the tribunals ruling in the Appeal Court even as the tribunal begins hearing the main petition. We are going to study the ruling and we have already had a perception about the case, but it has to be challenged. For the tribunal to say that it has no powers to order for a ballot recount is strange because other Tribunals had done it before. For them to assume that there is no place in the Electoral Act that there is no specific provision that talks about the recount is strange, Mr Kura said. The counsel said while the party would continue with its petition, it would seek a further interpretation of the ruling of the tribunal against the motion for the recount of votes at the Court of Appeal. (NAN) A Federal High Court sitting in Katsina State, on Tuesday, fixed June 26 to hear an application filed by a former governor of Katsina State, Ibrahim Shema, seeking the court to order for the release of his international passport to travel for medical treatment abroad. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in October 2018 re-arraigned Mr Shema on 26 counts of conspiracy and money laundering. Mr Shema is accused of laundering N5.7 billion, which was allegedly stolen from the account of the Katsina State Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P). He is alleged to have conspired with one Idris Kwado, who is on the run, to perpetrate the fraud. The judge, Hadiza Shagari, fixed the date following an application by Mr Shemas counsel, Uyi Igunma. Mrs Shagari, who complained that she has a backlog of cases in her former division in Lagos, said the June 26 may be the convenient date for her to hear the application. She rejected an application by the EFCC praying the court to adjourn the hearing in the case due to other cases to attend to at the apex court. She held that the prosecutions argument that they had pending cases in the apex court without serving the defendants makes their application null and void. Mrs Shagari, therefore, ordered that the case would continue. Earlier, Mr Igunma urged the court to quickly hear the application to release his clients passport saying, my client is in need of urgent medical treatment abroad. (NAN) The police in Zamfara State on Tuesday confirmed the killing of 23 persons in Tunga and Kabaje villages, Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area by suspected bandits in the early hours of the day. Confirming the incident to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Gusau, the state capital, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mohammed Shehu, a superintendent of police, said it is true that the bandits killed 23 persons in the attack. At the moment, peace has been restored in the affected areas and a combined team of mobile and regular police, the Army and Air Force are on surveillance in the area. Earlier, Chairman of Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area, Lawal Isa, had said bandits numbering over 100 riding on motorcycles, invaded two communities in the early hours of Tuesday when residents were going to their farms. He said the bandits may had come for reprisal following the killing of one of their suspected informants whose name he gave as simply Anas. The chairman said unknowingly to Anas, he was trailed by local vigilante members when he picked a wife and child of a suspected bandit at Angwan Sarki village to take them to the man in the bush on his motorcycle. The vigilante members blocked the rider and killed all three instantly on Monday and at about 5 Oclock the following morning, the gang invaded the villages and killed the victims, he said. He said all the villagers killed had been buried in the two villages according to Islamic rites. Mr Isa appealed to security agencies to consider going to the identified hideouts of the bandits, especially at Gidan na Zumbure village which now harbours the bandits and serve as their base for launching attacks. (NAN) The outgoing Deputy Governor of Zamfara State, Ibrahim Wakkala, has been named the chairman of the 79-member Transition Committee set up by the state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to ensure smooth transfer of power from the outgoing APC-led administration. Mr Wakkala has been serving as deputy governor in the Abdulaziz Yari-led APC government in the state since 2011. He however fell apart with his principal late last year when he indicated interest in the governorship position ahead of the 2019 elections and pitched camps with seven other governorship aspirants under the APC to form the G-8 group. A statement signed by the PDP Transition Committee Secretary, Abubakar Danmadami, said the Wakkala-led committee would ensure a seamless handover and takeover of the state administration between the APC and the PDP. This is to inform the general public that His Excellency, Hon. Bello Mohammed (Matawallen Maradun) MON, the Zamfara State Governor-elect, has approved the constitution of a 79-man Transition and other sub-committees for a seamless handover and takeover of the administration of the state, Mr Danmadami said. Other members of the committee include a former general manager of the state owned radio station, Nuhu Anka, who was sacked by the outgoing Yari administration as well as the former aide to Mr Yari, Zaharadeen Imam, who defected to PDP. Meanwhile, arrangements are in top gear in the state towards the handover ceremony from the APC to the PDP following last weeks Supreme Court ruling that nullified the election of the APC candidates for failure to conduct an acceptable primary election of the party ahead of the general elections. (NAN) The Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Eyitope Ogunbodede, has predicted the degradation of public universities compared to their private counterparts in the coming years. The don spoke at a meeting with student journalists of the school on Tuesday. The meeting was attended by the President of Association of Campus Journalists (ACJOAU), Oludiran Olusola; Dean of the Division of Students Affairs (DSA), Isiaka Aransi; the school spokesperson, Abiodun Olanrewaju; and other principal officers of the institution. Mr Ogunbodede said that to prevent the looming crisis of substandard services, the university is looking inwards to solve her problems including insufficient accommodation for students. Citing the benefits enjoyed in Nigerian universities in the 60s and 70s, he said the government cannot afford the type of feeding programme and accommodation that existed in the 1970s. I was a student on this campus. In my first two years, we were eating with 50kobo per day: 10 Kobo in the morning, 20 kobo in the afternoon and 20 kobo for supper. And you have everything on the dining table. If you take bread, tea and sardine, and you are not ready to pay for egg, that is 10 kobo, you can take those ones for free. Nigeria cannot, for now, afford that because the government is not providing such funds like that to any university again and we must realise that. We have 171 universities in Nigeria now of which 79 of them are private. You see the rate at which the private universities are growing. If you go to ABUAD(Afe Babalola University) today, you see a new building, you go again in two months, you see another building. Mr Ogunbodede said he hoped the fate that befell public primary and secondary schools does not befall universities. The public primary schools used to be the best until it was destroyed. The secondary school got destroyed. Now, its the turn of public universities. Give another ten years- Landmark, Covenant, ABUAD, Babcock University, Bowen University, will overtake the government universities. Government will then owe salaries. If you dont like public universities, you go to the private (owned). All these things we are doing now if we dont come together and look inwards Mr Ogunbodede explained. He explained that his administration was planning to provide additional 10,000-bed space in addition to the existing ones on campus. He spoke on his plans to utilise the institutions alumni to the benefit of the university. As a university, we need to cultivate our alumni and that is the future of any university. But for them to support us, we must also be ready. On accommodation, he said, People are coming to our aid and have promised to build hostels. We have allocated lands to some of them while we are planning to give to some others. He said poor funding of universities is not solely the fault of the federal government. He blamed the lack of adequate funding on Nigerias dependence on oil as its major source of revenue. Some countries, like in U.S., have developed cars that use electricity. You just park your car and it will be fully charged. Before you know it, nobody buys petrol. In another ten to fifteen years, nobody buys petrol again and government will no longer be able to pay, he said. He addressed other prevailing issues that cut across cultism and security challenges in the university. Mr Ogunbodede, while speaking on the progress made in the fight against cultism, announced the arrest of some confirmed cultists recently. Through the security measures put in place, the university had arrested some cultists few days ago. Advertisements It might surprise you that some of them are not students of this school but from neighbouring schools and even outside Osun State. PREMIUM TIMES reported a cult attack on OAU campus by some students of Oduduwa University, a neighbouring school, in April. Meanwhile, the Dean of Student Affairs, Isiaka Aransi, urged the journalists to steer clear of publications that put the university community in a bad light. He asked them to ensure verification of facts before publishing their stories. He said people who hide under unregistered bodies on campus to publish false claims against the management will be dealt with in coming days. We are not going to take it likely with this set of people, he threatened. In his remarks, the president of the student journalists, Oludiran Olusola, maintained that the journalists are ethical in their work. He promised that the organisation will continue to uphold the name of the school like it has always done. The Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, on Tuesday bowed out of office, a day to the official end of his eight years tenure. Mr Amosun said he would be leaving for Saudi Arabia to spend some days in expressing appreciation to God for seeing him through. He drove out in a motorcade in the company of his wife, and deputy governor, Yetunde Onanuga. The former governor said he came, he saw and he conquered. He said God had used him as a tool to transform the state. Firstly, all glory and adoration to almighty God because it is God that does things. He just uses us as tools in the way he wishes. So I want to thank God primarily and the good people of Ogun State, Mr Amosun said. My joy knows no bound because I am not the first Governor of Ogun State and you people (journalists) know Ogun State more than I do because we are like soldiers and they will say; soldier comes soldiers go, barracks remain. Clearly, you (journalists) have seen even the military amongst others. Mr Amosun had earlier ordered his Secretary to the State Government, Adeoluwa Taiwo, to formally hand over to the incoming administration. On Tuesday, he said he was leaving the state better than he met it. We came, we saw and to a reasonable extent, we have conquered. We are leaving Ogun State better than we met it. Some cannot even stay and someone says I am running away. Yes, but I will be running to Mecca to say thank you to God and I will be away for like 14 days because I will be coming for Sallah. I have told God that if He would do this for me, I will come and say thank you. And I am going to thank Him (God) for what I will describe as unseen fingers, uncommon glory and favour. Immediately we came, we knew what we wanted to do and that certain things must be put in place such as infrastructures and we did that. I have done my bit and I have moved on. And of course, I have a new assignment which I will do better than I have done in government. I am off and once you have done your bit, leave so that people can decide what is best for them. We have done our best and I am at peace with my creator, the former governor said. Mr Amosun is feuding with the incoming governor, Dapo Abiodun. He had opposed the nomination of the governor-elect by their All Progressives Congress (APC) and later got his preferred candidate, Akintunde Akinlade, to run for governor as the candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM). Mr Akinlade is currently pursuing a petition at the election tribunal against the victory of Mr Abiodun at the poll. Mr Amosuns actions on Tuesday indicate he will not be present to formally hand over to Mr Abiodun. The Alliance for Democracy (AD) and its governorship candidate in the last election, Owolabi Salis, on Tuesday, at an Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Ikeja, lost their bid to stop the swearing-in of Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as the governor of Lagos State on May 29. In a ruling delivered at 3.16pm on the eve of the swearing-in, the Chairman of the tribunal, Justice T. T Asua said the petition of AD and its gubernatorial candidate lacked merit. The main purpose of an interlocutory injunction as rightly argued by the respondents is to preserve the res that is the subject matter of the case. In this case, the petitioners have failed to show via their affidavit evidence that the res, which is the governorship seat of Lagos State, is in danger of being destroyed and has to be preserved by the issuance of the restraining order sought. An injunction is only issued to restrain a threatened wrong and not to restrain the performance of a legal right, he said. Dismissing the application, the Chairman of the Tribunal noted that restraining Mr Sanwo-Olu from being sworn-in as governor will lead to a chaotic situation in the state. To crown it all, restraining the second defendant from being sworn-in as governor of Lagos State when the tenure of the incumbent expires on the 29th of May 2019 creates a vacuum in the governance of Lagos State. This throws spanners in the works, causing confusion and leaving the entire Lagos State at the mercy of the first petitioners (AD) personal ambition to govern the state. Such an ugly scenario shall not be allowed by this Tribunal. In a final analysis, we hold that this application lacks merit and is hereby dismissed, Mr Asua said. After the ruling, the counsel to Mr Sanwo-Olu, Tunde Falola, thanked the Tribunal for its decision. On behalf of the second respondent, I thank this Tribunal. This decision has prevented the creation of a chaotic atmosphere in Lagos State. We are grateful sir, Mr Falola said. AD and Salis had on April 25 filed a Petition numbered EPT/LAG/GOV/2/2019 which sought to halt Mr Sanwo-Olus swearing-in on the grounds that he has a criminal record in the United States and is of unsound mind. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mr Sanwo-Olu, All Progressives Congress (APC) and the INEC Residential Electoral Commissioner were listed as respondents to the Petition. Other respondents are -The Returning Officer for The Lagos State Governorship Election, the Commissioner of Police and the Nigerian Army. The AD and Mr Salis in the petition had claimed that, The second respondent (Sanwo-Olu) is a person adjudged to be of unsound mind and who is not capable to be sworn in as the Governor of Lagos State. Sanwo-Olu has records of unsound mind and rehabilitation with the Gbagada General Hospital Lagos State. By virtue of section 182(1) (c) of the 1999 constitution as (amended), the second respondent is a person not qualified to be sworn-in as a governor. Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, the present Governor of Lagos state and who is the chief security officer of the state attested to the fact in Punch Newspapers of Monday October 1,2018, that Mr Sanwo-Olu is of unsound mind and not fit and proper to govern Lagos State. Governor Ambode equally stated that Sanwo-Olu was arrested and detained for several months and was convicted for spending fake dollars at a night club in America. AD and Salis had sought an Order restraining the Chief Judge of Lagos from swearing-in Mr Sanwo-Olu as the Executive Governor of Lagos State. They had also sought an Order restraining the Chief Judge of Lagos State in the interim from swearing-in Mr Sanwo-Olu as the Executive Governor of Lagos State pending the determination of the Petition at the Tribunal. (NAN) ATLANTIC CITY A line of people stretched along the Boardwalk, snaking around the corner onto Pennsylvania Avenue. Men and women, dressed in their finest attire, anxiously waited to be a part of history. Inside the old Haddon Hall, cards were shuffled, chips were stacked, bars were stocked, microphones checked and the slot machine lights were glowing. Just before 10 a.m. May 26, 1978, then-Gov. Brendan T. Byrne cut a ceremonial ribbon and quipped that his father told him to never bet on anything except Notre Dame and the Yankees. For those not willing to follow that advice, the casino is now open. Resorts International Casino Hotel was here and Atlantic City would never be the same. Rocco Pepino, now 74, said he remembers the crowds and how much they wanted to be a part of it all. When we would go on break outside (not supposed to) they would see our dealer uniforms and think we could somehow get them in, Pepino, of Atlantic City, said. My first night dealing roulette was a real experience. It was cash only (and) customers would reach through the crowd at the table and drop a handful of cash on the layout. It was a nightmare but a truly great learning experience. 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. If this had been in the opposite i.e. Hispanic wife of council president replacing African American the black community would have been outraged, and rightfully so. Ernest A. Aponte via Facebook Atlantic City school board votes to switch principals amid tense meeting Harassment has lost all meaning within the last 10 years. Mike Gant via Facebook Appellate court rules long-running Borgata Babes case can go to trial Are the taxpayers responsible for paying this settlement? Curious why the mayor would ask a private citizen for a loan for something apparently government-related. Lori Michele Atlantic City mayor settles civil dispute with nightclub employee This is a positive movement and everyone should play a part to help one another. Joann Leone Not legalizing cannabis jeopardizes related jobs Like most college students, I often ask myself: Will my education be worth it? So with expanded medical and adult-use marijuana legalization in New Jersey becoming a possibility, I enrolled in Stockton Universitys cannabis studies program. One of only a few in the country, it prepares students to navigate the legal, social justice, health and economic impacts of cannabis. Im also president of the Student Marijuana Alliance for Research and Transparency chapter on campus. But is there even going to be a cannabis industry in New Jersey when I graduate? Im putting time, energy and tuition into a career field that is rapidly expanding across the country. By the year 2022, cannabis is expected to grow to 330,000 jobs nationwide, eclipsing the entire iron and steel industry. But it barely exists here. If I graduated tomorrow, my job prospects would be limited to six licensed medical cannabis dispensaries in the state. This Page Is Under Construction - Coming Soon! Why am I seeing this 'Under Construction' page? 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. DUBLIN, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Aptiv PLC (NYSE: APTV) to host 2019 Investor Conference on Tuesday, June 4 in Boston, MA. Presentations by company executives will begin at 9:30 a.m. EDT and conclude at 1:00 p.m. EDT. A simultaneous webcast of the presentations will be available on the Aptiv Investor Relations website at ir.aptiv.com. For additional information, please contact Aptiv Investor Relations at [email protected]. About Aptiv Aptiv is a global technology company that develops safer, greener and more connected solutions enabling the future of mobility. Visit aptiv.com. SOURCE Aptiv PLC Related Links http://www.aptiv.com ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. today announced the acquisition of Zionsville, Indiana-based Cairnstone Financial, LLC. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 2010, Cairnstone Financial, LLC is a benefits consultant offering group health, life, wellness, retirement, disability and dental coverages and services to middle-market clients across the Midwestern United States. Mark Shrack and his associates will continue to operate from their current location under the direction of John Neumaier, head of Gallagher's Great Lakes region employee benefits consulting and brokerage operations. "Mark and his team have a solid track record of growing their business and finding innovative ways to help clients control healthcare costs while focusing on their employees' wellbeing," said J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr., Chairman, President and CEO. "We are very pleased to welcome Mark and his associates to our growing team." Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE: AJG), a global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm, is headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. The company has operations in 35 countries and offers client service capabilities in more than 150 countries around the world through a network of correspondent brokers and consultants. Investors: Ray Iardella Media: Linda J. Collins VP Investor Relations VP Corporate Communications 630-285-3661/ [email protected] 630-285-4009/ [email protected] SOURCE Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Related Links http://www.ajg.com CANTON, Mass., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Hospital executives have closed or are threatening to eliminate essential services from Greenfield to Taunton, prompting patients, nurses and advocates to push for legislation that will strengthen the existing hospital closure law, shine a light on hospital profits and offshore tax havens, and limit excessive CEO pay. Strengthening Hospital Closure Law Massachusetts hospital corporations such as Baystate Health, Partners Healthcare, UMass Memorial Health Care and Steward Healthcare have closed at least 27 hospitals or hospital units over the last 10 years. At least nine of these were deemed "essential services" by the state Department of Public Health, but executives closed them anyway. Right now, Baystate Health is planning to close inpatient mental health beds at community hospitals in Greenfield, Palmer and Westfield, along with its intensive care unit at Noble Hospital. Patients, nurses, advocates and elected officials have come out strongly against the closures. Cambridge Health Alliance recently proposed closing its emergency department at Somerville Hospital and turning it into an urgent care clinic. In Taunton, where Steward Healthcare closed its maternity unit in 2017 despite enormous public opposition, mothers have been giving birth under risky and inappropriate conditions because of the loss of those essential services. "Hospital executives are operating our hospitals paid for by our tax dollars like Wall Street banks and real estate holding companies rather than vital community resources," said RN and Massachusetts Nurses Association President Donna Kelly-Williams. "Patients face losing mental health care in their communities or are forced to give birth in an emergency department," Kelly-Williams said. "In Massachusetts, in 2019, this is a disgrace. Patients should be getting more high-quality care near where they live, not less care 30 miles away because a hospital CEO decided that for executive pay to keep skyrocketing the most vulnerable members of our society have to suffer." An Act Relative to the Closing of Hospital Essential Services (S. 672/H. 1139) will: Extend the official notice period to the DPH in advance of a closure or discontinuation of health services. Require any hospital proposing closure or discontinuation of health services to provide evidence of having notified and provided the opportunity for comment from affected municipalities before the notification period begins. Instruct the Attorney General to seek an injunction to maintain the essential services for the duration of the notice period. Prohibit the hospital from eligibility for an application for licensure or expansion for a period of three years from the date the service is discontinued, or until the essential health service is restored, or until such time as the DPH is satisfied with a modified plan. Nurses, health care professionals, lawmakers and advocates will attend the hearing in favor of a strengthened hospital closure law. They will represent patients who have been affected by closures, or threatened hospital closures, in communities throughout Massachusetts. Donna Stern, RN in the mental health unit at Baystate Franklin Medical Center: "These closures will have a ripple affect, impacting thousands of people. Any one of us can be a hospital patient at any time. Any of our loved ones can end up in the ICU or in a mental health bed. Many people in our communities work and volunteer with patients who require these services. If the care we need is not local, it will limit access and hinder recovery. "That is why we are fighting to keep care local. But we need better tools. Executives should not be able to close local services while expanding throughout Massachusetts, out of state and around the world. Hospital corporations should not be able to pile up profits, stash them in tax havens, pay their executives millions and close essential services." Lisa Valley-Shah. RN in the emergency department at Somerville Hospital: "To take away services, especially for people where this is their only means of care, especially non-English speaking people, not only is it disrespectful, this is such total disregard for people that already find it hard to navigate a health care system. To now disregard them and basically tell them they can no longer come here for things they get from us is dangerous for their health and welfare. It's such a burden." Jacqui Fitts, RN who used to work in Morton Hospital's maternity unit: "Last year, Steward Healthcare executives callously closed maternity services at Morton Hospital even though the state Department of Public Health deemed them essential. Our maternity unit had been serving families in the Taunton area for more than 100 years. The closure devastated many of the most vulnerable people in our communities, especially mothers struggling financially or with addiction. "Unable to access hospital maternity care close to home, mothers are giving birth in our emergency department. These births are happening in an unsafe and inappropriate setting because these mothers have no other options and Steward has not provided them the support they need. Morton ED doctors have had to call obstetric physicians at other hospitals to talk them through births. Nurses like myself have been called from other hospital units into the ED to assist in these sudden, risky deliveries." Hospital Profit Transparency and CEO Pay When hospital corporations making tens or hundreds of millions of dollars in profits each year keep closing essential health care services, policy makers have the right to know if our tax dollars are being spent to benefit patients or hospital CEOs. Massachusetts hospitals have a least $1.5 billion in offshore accounts in places like the Cayman Islands and Bermuda, according to IRS 990 reports from 2015, 2016 and 2017. Baystate Health and Partners Healthcare, for example, each have more than $100 million in the Cayman Islands. UMass Memorial Health, which closed pediatric and mental health beds in recent years, has $171,000,000 in the Cayman Islands, according to its 2017 990 form. To address this issue, The Hospital Profit Transparency and Fairness Act (S. 714/H. 1144) will: Require hospitals to be transparent about their financial holdings and other activities. Assess any hospital receiving taxpayer dollars that has an annual operating margin above a specific, predetermined cap. Assess any hospital receiving taxpayer dollars that provides a compensation package for its CEO that is greater than 100 times that of the hospital's lowest paid employee. Deposit assessments in a newly created Medicaid Reimbursement Enhancement Fund to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates to eligible hospitals as a way to claw back excess profits and ensure that taxpayer dollars are dedicated exclusively to safe patient care and necessary services for all communities in the commonwealth. Mansfield RN and MNA Vice President Karen Coughlin: "Because of the opaque way hospital executives move money around their corporations, stashing it in tax havens like the Cayman Islands and pouring it into new corporate entities as they expand around the state, the country and the world, the public does not know how its tax dollars are being spent. We can improve our health care system by shining a light on hospital finances, limiting excessive CEO pay and ensuring that the public has a stronger voice in shaping how our health care dollars are spent." Bill Co-Sponsor Senator Michael Moore: "Given the high cost of health care, the public deserves to know what hospital executives are doing with public funds. Many people do not realize that many of the Commonwealth's multi-billion-dollar hospital corporations are largely funded by taxpayer dollars. Transparency in regard to the use of those funds is critical to maintaining public trust." Bill Co-Sponsor Representative Josh Cutler: "Our Medicare, Medicaid and other state tax dollars fund hospital corporations, but what those corporations do with our money can be at odds with public service. This bill will allow the public to see exactly where our tax dollars are going especially if they end up in the Cayman Islands and limit excessive hospital CEO pay. We should instead spend that money helping our most vulnerable patients." MassNurses.org Facebook.com/MassNurses Twitter.com/MassNurses Instagram.com/MassNurses Founded in 1903, the Massachusetts Nurses Association is the largest union of registered nurses in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Its 23,000 members advance the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting the economic and general welfare of nurses in the workplace, projecting a positive and realistic view of nursing, and by lobbying the Legislature and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public. SOURCE Massachusetts Nurses Association Related Links http://www.massnurses.org SANTA MONICA, Calif., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Atom Tickets, the social movie-ticketing platform, announced today it has partnered with Cinemark (NYSE: CNK) to expand its national theater footprint. Cinemark is the third largest national exhibitor in the U.S. and adds more than 4,500 screens at 340 locations to the Atom Tickets network, which now covers over 26,000 screens. The Cinemark deal brings increased screen count in key markets such as Dallas, Houston, San Francisco, Sacramento and Denver. The company expects to have Cinemark locations live on the Atom app and website by mid-summer. Movie fans will be able to book tickets through Atom for any Cinemark location while enjoying all the benefits of Atom's convenient social ticketing platform, including reserving seats in advance of any movie for themselves and their guests; inviting friends via contacts; quickly checking-in for movies using a mobile device and eliminating the need for paper tickets. "We're thrilled to have Cinemark as our newest exhibitor partner to satisfy the significant consumer demand for this chain of theatres on the Atom platform. We know this partnership will deliver an even better user experience when hundreds of Cinemark locations appear in the Atom app," said Matthew Bakal, Chairman and Co-Founder of Atom Tickets. "Cinemark is an innovative leader in the exhibition industry and we're excited to partner with them to grow their audience and attract more guests with digital ticketing." "Our first priority is to make purchasing tickets as seamless as possible for our guests," said Mark Zoradi, CEO, Cinemark. "Through our partnership with Atom Tickets, Cinemark's customers will now have even more opportunities to easily access tickets to every must-see movie." In just over two years since its national launch, Atom Tickets now has: 6 million monthly unique visitors to Atom Tickets (Atom internal data, app and web) 80% of Atoms web audience unduplicated from another leading movie ticketing site* Over 60 leading exhibitors on its platform, including 7 of the top 10 U.S. exhibitors Cinemark joins an impressive list of Atom Tickets theater partners that includes AMC Theatres, Regal Cinemas, Harkins Theatres, National Amusements' Showcase Cinemas, CMX Cinemas, Landmark Cinemas of Canada, Studio Movie Grill, Malco Theatres, Landmark Theatres, ArcLight Cinemas, and Larry H. Miller Megaplex Theatres, among others. *Source: Comscore Media Metrix Multi-Platform, Audience Duplication, Custom Entity Comparison for AtomTickets.com and Fandango.com, April 2019, U.S. About Cinemark Holdings Cinemark is a leading domestic and international motion picture exhibitor, operating 547 theatres with 6,051 screens in 41 U.S. states, Brazil, Argentina and 13 other Latin American countries as of March 31, 2019. For more information go to investors.cinemark.com . About Atom Tickets Atom Tickets is the first-of-its-kind social movie ticketing app. Backed by Lionsgate, Disney, and Fidelity Management & Research Company, Atom Tickets allows consumers to search for films instantly, invite friends, buy tickets, pre-order concessions and more. Enabled on over 26,000 screens across the U.S. and Canada, the platform's innovative marketing capabilities help studios, exhibitors and brands maximize revenue opportunities. The company's advisory board includes Steven Spielberg, J.J. Abrams, Tyler Perry, Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia who serve as resources to Atom in developing the most innovative and convenient theatrical movie experiences for consumers. Atom Tickets is available as a free app in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store and online at atomtickets.com. Media Contacts: Kristen Morquecho Atom Tickets [email protected] James Meredith Cinemark [email protected] SOURCE Atom Tickets Related Links https://www.atomtickets.com BOGOTA, Colombia, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Beriblock has announced its official launch, as the startup works to usher integrity to asset transactions using blockchain technology. Founded in 2018, Beriblock set out to find a better way to safeguard debt contracts and commercial notes against fraud. When a debt transaction takes place, the unity of digital data and physical presence is lost, generating a "trust gap" in the financial system. Today, Beriblock offers a blockchain-based service that addresses said trust gap and improves upon the custodian system. Based in Bogota, Colombia, Beriblock is the first blockchain-based Latin American startup in the document authentication and custodian niche. "We are proud and excited to be announcing the official launch of Beriblock, following a pivot from lending to blockchain-as-a-service, which came from an acknowledgment of the many pain points of large financial institutions and the outdated ways in which they have historically worked to circumvent them," said Salomon Muriel, Beriblock CEO and co-founder. With plans to scale across Latin America, and beyond, Beriblock has partnered with Rokk3r Inc. (OTC: ROKK) to create and execute upon a roadmap for expansion. The U.S.-based company cobuilder and consulting firm will help Beriblock strengthen its core technology, devise go-to market strategies in new countries and establish product-market fit in new areas of operation. "It is emboldening to have a partner like Rokk3r by our side," Muriel said. "We are confident the Rokk3r team's expertise identifying product-market fit in Latin America and building robust technology platforms will make the early-stage scaleup part of Beriblock's lifecycle smoother than it might otherwise be." "The evolution of Latin America's financial sector has been hindered for decades because of an array of issues, including trust, or lack thereof, in traditional systems. Beriblock is directly addressing this issue," said Lorenzo de Leo, Rokk3r's Chief Growth Officer. "Together, Beriblock and Rokk3r will hopefully bring a new, improved way of doing business in a region we know is ready for change." About Beriblock Beriblock is replacing custodians with mathematical proof to ensure compliance across transactions. Our blockchain-as-a-service document authentication platform offers instant, cheap, distributed, and secure proof of existence, ownership and authenticity for any document, agreement, or contract. We secure debt titles, contracts, documents, agreements, invoices and other digital assets. To learn how we are ushering in integrity and efficiency to transactions, visit us at beriblock.com . About Rokk3r Inc. Rokk3r is a company builder headquartered in Miami, Florida, that enables aspiring entrepreneurs and established companies to successfully launch exponential, tech-driven businesses. By leveraging Rokk3r's global network of engineers, designers and educators, such groundbreaking companies as Hyp3r , AdMobilize , Joule.AI , Uniko , and Emerge have been #PoweredByRokk3r. To learn how Rokk3r transforms businesses from traditional to exponential, visit rokk3r.com and follow Rokk3r on Twitter , LinkedIn , Instagram and Facebook . For inquiries, contact: Debora Lima | [email protected] | 786-797-8540 SOURCE Beriblock Related Links https://www.beriblock.com TORONTO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Artificial Intelligence powered hedge fund, Castle Ridge Asset Management Limited ("Castle Ridge"), announced today that it has accepted a strategic investment from Canaccord Genuity Group Inc. ("Canaccord Genuity"), a leading global financial services firm that specializes in wealth management and capital markets. The investment will enable Castle Ridge to expand its distribution channel with Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management, which manages over $60 billion in client assets in Canada, the UK & Europe and Australia. Adrian de Valois-Franklin, CEO of Castle Ridge, stated, "We are thrilled to be backed by an investor with such global reach. Together, we believe Castle Ridge represents the future of asset management. Our proprietary WALLACE AI platform constantly adapts to ever changing financial markets. WALLACE is the culmination of 20 years of experience of what works, and more importantly, what does not work when trying to apply Machine Learning techniques to the markets. As a result, we developed a completely new branch of self-evolving Artificial Intelligence called Geno-Synthetic Algorithms." Dr. Alex Bogdan, Chief Scientific Officer, added, "Clients will gain access to a truly unique set of uncorrelated investment strategies driven by Castle Ridge's explainable and transparent AI. What really sets the system apart is the ability to spot market behavioral patterns that are hidden to human managers and traditional static systematic strategies." Castle Ridge is rolling out a full range of investment funds, which includes U.S. and Global Equities, Market Neutral, Macro, Fixed Income, Foreign Exchange and Multi-Strategy. As an example, Castle Ridge's flagship U.S. Large Cap Alpha strategy (Castle Ridge LP) was ranked #2 of 214 global Equity Long funds tracked by the Barclay Hedge database for net performance in 2018. Castle Ridge's investment products are tailored for accredited high-net-worth, family office, institutional, pension plan and sovereign wealth fund clients. ABOUT CASTLE RIDGE ASSET MANAGEMENT Castle Ridge Asset Management, with offices in Toronto and New York, offers hedge fund investment strategies powered by its proprietary Artificial Intelligence system, named WALLACE. The WALLACE AI platform continuously learns and evolves by analyzing vast quantities of financial market data. Through major breakthroughs in Machine Learning and self-evolving Evolutionary Computing, WALLACE uncovers unique market patterns that go far deeper than typical quantitative or systematic strategies. One of WALLACE's most powerful features is its ability to anticipate positive events, like acquisitions, or negative events, like market pull-backs. Unlike traditional or static investment strategies that often fail when market conditions change, WALLACE adapts and thrives. As a result, Castle Ridge avoids the pitfalls of human bias and ego to deliver Alpha under ever changing market conditions. To learn more about Castle Ridge, visit: www.castleridgemgt.com SOURCE Castle Ridge Asset Management SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency (CINDE) announced that NTT DATA, Inc. opened a center of excellence in Costa Rica to serve its Salesforce portfolio. The company, located in the America Free Zone industrial park, has been certified as a Platinum Salesforce Partner with more than 15 years of partnership with Salesforce. NTT DATA, a leading IT services provider, currently has a dozen Salesforce accounts in Costa Rica that need to hire more specialized personnel with English language proficiency. The profiles required are systems engineers or the like, with experience and knowledge of the platform, who can work on integration and development. To date, the company has 30 employees and will hire more than 100 collaborators during this year. Due to the degree of specialization required, the company will train the new hires. Costa Rica's Minister of Foreign Trade, Dyala Jimenez, said: " NTT Data established in Costa Rica three years ago. We thank its confidence in our country with this new center. The Government of President Carlos Alvarado is committed to working and fostering bilingualism even further, as well as expanding the population's technical and academic education, which will ensure new opportunities just like the ones coming from companies like this one." Franklin Apuy, Vice President and General Manager of NTT Data Costa Rica commented: "Costa Rica plays a very important role in the expansion of technology services for our clients in the United States and Latin America. We are placing our trust in Costa Rican human talent to develop differential factors with respect to our peers in the region." CINDE's Managing Director, Jorge Sequeira, said: "Thanks to companies like NTT Data in the digital tech industry, Costa Rica's services exports add up to 44% of all exports, which are well above OECD members' exports: 27%. Furthermore, among Costa Rica's total services exports, 48% of them belong to IT and communication technologies. We hope that, working hand in hand with Costa Rican talent, the company continues to consolidate its business in this country." Those interested in exploring employment opportunities with the company are invited to submit an application at: https://careers-inc.nttdata.com/key/costa-rica.html NTT DATA Services has more than 30 services centers in more than 50 countries, including Latin American centers in Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, Argentina, Brazil and Colombia. Collectively, these centers comprise part of a global network providing standardized and customized business applications and services for global and regional clients, using standards of very high quality and security. SOURCE Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency Related Links http://www.cinde.org HOUSTON, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Hart Energy Conferences announced its growing speaker line-up for its Marcellus and Utica conference, DUG East, returning to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh June 18 20. Executive speakers from CNX, EQT, Ascent Resources and others will present their company's plans and the new developments in the Marcellus and Utica regions. "Favorable production economics place the Marcellus and Utica shale plays among the most cost competitive in the nation," said Richard Mason, Chief Technical Director at Hart Energy. "Hundreds of professionals will gather in Pittsburgh to hear how leading producers are keeping production high and costs low at this year's DUG East conference." CNX turned-in-line 18 wells in Q1 (all in Southwest Marcellus) and plans to have turned-in-line 62 well (with an additional 24 wells in 2020) by year-end. CNX continues to see strong production cash flows and margins. In a morning roundtable, Tim Dugan, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer will discuss the company's growth, attention to lease operating expenses, and their gathering and compression profiles. EQT, one of the biggest natural gas producers in the U.S., will deliver the DUG East operator spotlight presentation by the Vice President of Drilling and Completions, Brad Maddox. The Pittsburgh-headquartered company is known for its super laterals and plans to drill the majority of its wells in the Pennsylvania Marcellus with 13,200-ft average laterals. Jeff A. Fisher, CEO of Ascent Resources, will give key take-aways from the company's 310,000 net acres in the over-pressured southern part of Ohio's Utica play, bolstered by a $1.5 billion purchase last year. Ascent produces more than 1.8 Bcfe/d in credit to the company's technology, well spacing and commodity prices. Marcia Simpson, Senior Vice President Engineering & Operations of Chief Oil & Gas, will share how Chief Oil & Gas navigates Northeast Pennsylvania, a region with tight margins, bustling resources and growing gas demand. Since Chief began leasing in Pennsylvania in 2007, it has produced more than 1 Tcf of gas (gross) from the Marcellus and currently produces about 1 Bcf/d. Other speakers at this year's 11th annual DUG East conference include: Brian Akins , Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Westmoreland Gas, LLC , Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Chris Doyle , President and CEO , Huntley & Huntley Energy Exploration, LLC President and CEO Kathryn Z. Klaber , Managing Partner , The Klaber Group Managing Partner Nicole Baird , Asset Manager , Equinor ASA Asset Manager Rusty Hutson Jr. , Co-Founder and CEO , Diversified Gas & Oil PLC Co-Founder and CEO Jerry James , Co-Founder, Shale Crescent USA ; President, Artex Oil Company Co-Founder, ; President, Wally Kandel , Co-Founder, Shale Crescent USA ; Senior Vice President & Plant Manager, Solvay Specialty Polymers USA Co-Founder, Shale Crescent ; Senior Vice President & Plant Manager, Charles A. Schliebs, Managing Director, Stone Pier Capital Advisors, LP Managing Director, Des Murphy , Business Development Technology Manager, Halliburton Co. Business Development Technology Manager, Tom Petrie , Chairman, Petrie Partners Chairman, Donald R. Raikes , Senior Vice President Gas Transmission Operations Gas Infrastructure Group, Dominion Energy Senior Vice President Gas Transmission Operations Gas Infrastructure Group, Ray Walker , COO, Encino Energy LLC COO, Richard D. Weber , Chairman and CEO, PennEnergy Resources LLC For more information about DUG East conference and exhibition, visit DUGEast.com. About Hart Energy For more than 40 years, Hart Energy editors and experts have delivered market-leading insights to investors and energy industry professionals. The Houston-based company produces award-winning magazines (such as Oil and Gas Investor and E&P); online news and data services; in-depth industry conferences (like the DUG series); GIS data sets and mapping solutions; and a range of research and consulting services. For information, visit hartenergy.com. Contact: tel +1.713.260.4657, [email protected] SOURCE Hart Energy Related Links https://www.hartenergy.com CARROLLTON, Texas, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- FASTSIGNS International, Inc. , franchisor of FASTSIGNS, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today that it will be attending and sponsoring the International Franchise Expo from May 30 June 1 at The Javits Center in New York City. FASTSIGNS CEO Catherine Monson will speak at the event and share insights gained during her more than 30 years in franchising. FASTSIGNS is recruiting franchisees globally, with a focus on urban markets throughout the Northeastern United States including New York City, Long Island, Boston, Providence, and Portland as well as finding master franchisees for Quebec, Europe, Latin America, and other international markets. In 2018, the company celebrated the opening of its first location in Chile, and in April celebrated the opening of four additional centers in Santiago, Chile. "As the demand for comprehensive signage and visual communications solutions soars, FASTSIGNS is growing at an unprecedented pace," said Mark Jameson, Executive Vice President of Franchise Support and Development. "We're looking forward to attending the International Franchise Expo and connecting with entrepreneurs excited about the opportunity to grow with the top-ranked franchisor in the segment." Entrepreneurs are encouraged to meet Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, Inc., and the brand's franchise development team at booth #214 to learn more about the benefits of being a franchisee. At the booth, FASTSIGNS will be showcasing digital technology, including a kiosk featuring the 1HUDDLE workforce-training platform. Additionally, during the three-day event, Monson will speak on a panel alongside other franchise experts on Thursday, May 30 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. to discuss some of the most common business and legal problems affecting international franchising. On Saturday, June 1 from 12:30 -1:30 p.m., Monson will join FASTSIGNS franchisee Denise Acquaye, of Newark, New Jersey, to share how they work together to achieve a balance between the franchisor and franchisee in order to create a successful brand and position FASTSIGNS as one of the top-ranked franchisors for franchisee satisfaction for over 10 years. (For more details on these panels, click here .) "After 40 combined years in corporate America, my husband and I wanted to follow our hearts and become entrepreneurs. We knew franchising was the right path because it would provide us with a proven business model to be successful," said Acquaye, who owns and operates a FASTSIGNS location in downtown Newark. "We looked at a lot of different concepts, from fast food to retail, but we picked FASTSIGNS because of its strong commitment to supporting franchisees. Without any company-owned centers, FASTSIGNS' success is entirely driven by its franchisees so the corporate team allocates an enormous amount of resources to support." FASTSIGNS is known in the industry for equipping its franchisees with tools vital to securing the ongoing success of each individual location. In 2018, FASTSIGNS announced the launch of a special incentive for first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, which includes a 50-percent reduction on the franchise fee a savings of $24,875. For any existing business looking to expand into this fast-paced market, FASTSIGNS also offers co-brand and conversion programs to help owners diversify their product lines and services to meet the growing demand for comprehensive signage and visual communications solutions. FASTSIGNS has helped countless owners of print shops, photography studios, camera stores, embroidery shops, and more, add a FASTSIGNS to their existing business or fully convert their store to a FASTSIGNS franchise. FASTSIGNS franchisees receive ongoing training and support to stay ahead of the competition and exceed the needs of their local business community. Both the co-brand franchise opportunity and conversion can be started with only $15,000 down on the initial franchise fee. FASTSIGNS International, Inc. was ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and 95 overall on Entrepreneur magazine's 2019 Franchise 500 , the world's first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking. Acknowledged by entrepreneurs and franchisors as a top competitive tool of measurement, the Franchise 500 recognizes FASTSIGNS, the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100, for its exceptional performance in areas including financial strength and stability, growth rate, and brand power. FASTSIGNS also made Franchise Direct's list of the Top 100 Franchises 2019 and ranked #2 on this year's Franchise Gator Top 100 list, both ranking the best franchises for 2019. FASTSIGNS has also been ranked by Franchise Business Review as one of the "Best of the Best" for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years. Additionally, FASTSIGNS was also named to Franchise Business Review's "Innovative Franchises" list in 2017 and a "Best-in-Category" franchise by Franchise Business Review in 2018. In 2019, the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) awarded FASTSIGNS International, Inc. the Franchisees' Choice Designation for the seventh consecutive year for its strong relationship with Canadian franchisees, as well as extensive franchisee training and support. About FASTSIGNS FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 700 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS centers in nine countries including the United States, Canada, Chile, England, Grand Cayman, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE). Locations are slated to open in two additional countries - Malta and Spain - in 2019. FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and visual graphic solutions to help companies of all sizes and across all industries attract more attention, communicate their message, promote their products, help visitors find their way and extend their branding across all of their customer touch points. FASTSIGNS centers provide architectural and interior decor graphics, fleet vehicle graphics, digital signs and digital signage content, event graphics, displays, banners, posters, ADA signage, safety and identification signs and much more, as well as handle everything from design to project management to installation. FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is a recipient of many awards, including being ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur magazine's Franchise 500 for the past three years, and Best-in-Category in the business services sector on Franchise Business Review's list of the top 200 franchises for multiple years. Learn more about sign and visual graphic solutions or find a location at fastsigns.com . Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns , Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS . For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson ([email protected] or call 214.346.5679). CONTACT: Chelsea Bear Fish Consulting 954-893-9150 [email protected] SOURCE FASTSIGNS International, Inc. Related Links http://www.fastsigns.com SCHAUMBURG, Ill., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- After spending months documenting the extraordinary work of emergency nurses across the country, filmmaker Carolyn Jones will take the stage in September as the keynote speaker at Emergency Nursing 2019 the Emergency Nurses Association's premier education and networking event. Jones' and the Carolyn Jones Productions team partnered with ENA on The Emergency Nurse Project, a documentary film scheduled for release in 2020 which celebrates emergency nurses and the impact they have on patients throughout the United States. Preview clips from the project include an Iowa nurse sharing the emotional lesson she learned about working with the families of patients and a nurse from Kentucky who describes the ongoing epidemic of workplace violence plaguing every emergency department. The clips have received 20,000 views on Facebook in less than a month. "Carolyn's reputation as a captivating storyteller and her skilled eye for powerful visuals makes the Emergency Nurse Project a compelling way to help build awareness and understanding of who ED nurses are and what they do," ENA President Patti Kunz Howard, PhD, RN, CEN, CPEN, TCRN, NE-BC, FAEN, FAAN, said. "We are honored to have Carolyn join us at Emergency Nursing 2019 where she will most certainly be welcomed with open arms by thousands of emergency nurses whose collective story is being told in the film." Jones known for her work on The American Nurse: Healing America and Defining Hope said she has been captivated by the wisdom of emergency nurses, who she described as unique and special. "As our team has traveled the country meeting ED nurses in small communities and big cities, I've truly gained an appreciation for not only the amazing work they do, but the remarkable people they are," Jones said. "The honor of speaking at Emergency Nursing 2019 offers me a wonderful opportunity to share the film's vision and to tell some of my stories from meeting these special nurses." In addition to her appearance at Emergency Nursing 2019, Jones will be featured in a July episode of the ENA Podcast, which is available on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and Sound Cloud. Visit The Emergency Nurse Project website or follow @ENAorg on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for news and updates about the film. About the Emergency Nurses Association The Emergency Nurses Association is the premier professional nursing association dedicated to defining the future of emergency nursing through advocacy, education, research, innovation, and leadership. Founded in 1970, ENA has proven to be an indispensable resource to the global emergency nursing community. With more than 44,000 members worldwide, ENA advocates for patient safety, develops industry-leading practice standards and guidelines, and guides emergency healthcare public policy. ENA members have expertise in triage, patient care, disaster preparedness, and all aspects of emergency care. Additional information is available at www.ena.org. About Carolyn Jones Productions Carolyn Jones Productions is best known for producing socially proactive documentary films and photography, using a variety of media tools to create projects that point our attention toward issues of global concern. The team is comprised of award-winning filmmakers led by Executive Producer and Director Carolyn Jones, and including Producer Lisa Frank, Cinematographer Jaka Vinsek and Editors Laura Israel and Chelsea Smith. For more information about Carolyn Jones Productions, visit www.carolynjones.com. ENA Media Contact: Dan Campana Senior Manager, PR & Communications 847-460-4017 [email protected] SOURCE Emergency Nurses Association Related Links https://www.ena.org NEW YORK, May 21, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Gap, the iconic American cultural brand, today announces a creative campaign and collection that celebrates 2019 Pride Month, honoring the diversity of the LGTBQIA+ community and Jodie Patterson's chosen family, and includes a partnership with the United Nations Foundation and UN Free & Equal, a campaign of the UN Human Rights Office to promote equal rights and fair treatment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex people globally. Gap Pride 2019 | Chosen Family with Jodie and Penel Patterson Gap Pride 2019 | Anthem With a full heart and open mind, we can find love, foster love -- and be love." - author, social activist, and mother @jodiepatterson with her mother Jamelle and her transgender son Penel Love sets us free. - @kimkatrinmilan with her daughter Soleil "We want to help create a world for our daughter that is hopeful, open, reflective, and shapeshifting love -- with new languages and communities of love." - wife, mother, educator, artist, and LGBTI advocate @kimkatrinmilan featured with her transgender husband @themrmilan and their daughter Soleil. I love him whole. - @kimkatrinmilan with her husband @themrmilan. As the wife of a transgender man, Kim strives to create movements and communities that accept people for who they are, without limitations, without expectations, and with love only. Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8462151-gap-celebrates-2019-pride-month-chosen-family-campaign/ Gap's 2019 Pride Month campaign celebrates "love all ways" and what is truly timeless: being true to oneself and one another. As the mother to Penel Ghartey, a transgender boy, Jodie is known for her courageous and poetic book The Bold World: A Memoir of Family and Transformation, which explores identity, gender, race, and authenticity to tell the real-life story of a family's history and transformation. She has become an activist in the LGTBQIA+ community with a determination to create a more loving world not only for her son, but for all. "Celebrating love has been an inherent part of Gap's DNA from the beginning and Jodie Patterson and her chosen family are full of love," says Alegra O'Hare, Chief Marketing Officer of Gap. "It was important for us as a brand to take a stand for what we believe in and create a meaningful campaign that shines light on the LGBTQIA+ community and their incredible stories. We hope to inspire our consumers from around the world to love all ways." Shot in classic black and white portraits, Gap has captured the honest and authentic dynamic of what it means to love and be loved within Jodie's chosen family. Courageous, loving, and open-hearted trailblazers, Jodie's chosen family includes friends, relatives, mentors, and neighbors. Within the campaign portraits, Jodie and her chosen family wear the Gap 2019 PRIDE collection, featuring messages of love and acceptance. Gap's 2019 PRIDE collection includes easy to wear fashion and accessories for women, men, kids and babies. Jodie Patterson comments, "when I think about this moment we are in, I see how important it is to centralize all identities. To ask ourselves to see those whom we have never seen before. In particular those who have been marginalized. My family is complex and layered. We come from all over the world, speak over 5 languages, pray in unique ways, identify across the spectrum, love as we see fit. I am so proud of GAP for seeing us and centralizing us. In the midst of all this decisiveness, some decide to come together and simply say YES." From May 26 to July 6 2019, Gap will donate 15% of sales from the PRIDE collection to the United Nations Foundation in support of UN Free & Equal. 2019 marks Gap's fourth consecutive year partnering with the UN Foundation and the UN Free & Equal campaign. The 2019 partnership comes ahead the 50-year mark of the 1969 Stonewall Riots, a pivotal moment in the movement for LGBTQIA+ equality, as well as Gap's 50th anniversary of the first Gap store opening in San Francisco. To view all of the stories behind Gap's Pride campaign, please visit on 5/29: www.gap.com #ChosenFamily Assets: Download campaign imagery: here Download product imagery: here Link to campaign videos: here For press inquiries, please contact: Matt Kays & Bernadette Fahey PR Consulting [email protected] [email protected] (212) 228-8181 About Gap: Gap is one of the world's most iconic apparel and accessories brands and the authority on American casual style. Founded in San Francisco in 1969, Gap's collections are designed to build the foundation of modern wardrobes all things denim, classic white shirts, khakis and must-have trends. Beginning with the first international store in London in 1987, Gap continues to connect with customers online and across the brands about 1,600 company-operated and franchise retail locations around the world. Gap includes Women's and Men's apparel and accessories, GapKids, babyGap, GapMaternity, GapBody and GapFit collections. The brand also serves value-conscious customers with exclusively-designed collections for Gap Outlet and Gap Factory Stores. Gap is the namesake brand for leading global specialty retailer, Gap Inc. (NYSE: GPS) which includes Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Athleta, Intermix, Janie and Jack and Hill City. For more information, please visit www.gapinc.com. SOURCE Gap DILLON, Mont., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Great Harvest Bread Co., a leader in the bakery cafe space, was named a Top Food Franchise of 2019 by Entrepreneur magazine. Under the "Baked Goods" category, the franchise earned the No. 10 spot, rising two slots up from last year's ranking. Over the last two years, Great Harvest has revolutionized its expansion efforts via bakery cafes and hub-and-spoke modelsthe latter of which many new & existing franchisees across the United States have opted to open. The brand is looking to strengthen its presence in the Northeast as it's in the process of developing a hub and two-spokes to serve Long Island, N.Y., and a hub with one spoke in Red Bank, N.J., and Asbury Park, N.J. Great Harvest recognizes the high-index suburban areas throughout the Northeast and is actively seeking qualified franchisees to complete the expansion in the metro areas of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Philadelphia. Investors looking to diversify their business portfolio and establish a presence either internationally or in the Northeast with a wholesome franchise can learn more about Great Harvest Bread Co. at the International Franchise Expo in New York City, May 30 June 1. Learn how this company, located at booth No. 623, built a franchise model that allows multi-unit and multi-brand franchise owners to go where the competition cannot and cover more territory at an unrivaled investment level. A hub-and-spoke model costs about $700K to build out and pulls in, on average, $1.6 million with 17.4 percent EBITDA. Given the bakery cafe's customizable design, its modernized franchise model and the brand's 40-plus years of success, Great Harvest's influence on the local market level remains unmatched by Panera and other big-name competitors. The local level success of the nearly 200-unit franchise is also due in part to the brand's promise of milling only fresh wheat in-store sourced from trusted farmers in Montana's Golden Triangle, largely considered the top spot for agricultural production and ingredient processing. "The initial response from existing and new franchisees has been supportive and by yearend, we expect to have 33 percent of the system operating through the hub-and-spoke model as operators add their second or third cafes in their respective markets," said Great Harvest Bread Co. CEO Mike Ferretti. Unlike other big-box fast casual franchisees, Great Harvest franchisees can out-bake and out-localize the competition in high-traffic areas with as little as 1,500 square feet. With the freedom franchise, each location takes on the look and personality of the demographic around them, keeping the same quality but local atmosphere unique to each bakery cafe. Great Harvest is an investment opportunity that lets the owner decide how turnkey they want the process to be and lets franchisees call their own shots. To learn more about the Great Harvest hub and spoke model, check out the blog or download the franchise information packet. About Great Harvest Bread Company Great Harvest Bread has spent the past 40 years perfecting the combination of ingredients to make the freshest and authentic breads and pastries, as well as the newer sandwiches, grain bowls and soups, growing to nearly 200 locations, all of which continue to mill their own Golden Triangle wheat every morning from scratch. Providing local communities with authentic breads and pastries made fresh daily, the brand is now growing through franchising with a new bakery-cafe model ideal for multi-unit ownership. Open during three parts of the daybreakfast, lunch and dinner the menu has grown beyond a wide variety of soft, delicious breads to include soups, sandwiches and grain bowls. To learn about franchising opportunities with Great Harvest Bread Company, go to https://www.greatharvest.com/franchise. SOURCE Great Harvest Bread Company CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Bob Hilliard announced today that, for the second time, the United States Supreme Court has granted his request on behalf of his client to determine if a Mexican citizen standing in Mexico has protections against being wrongly shot by a border patrol agent standing in the United States. Fifteen-year-old Sergio Adrian Hernandez Guereca, an unarmed teenager, was playing with his friends in a cement culvert near the U.S./Mexico border and was shot in the head in June 2010 by U.S. Border Patrol, agent, Jesus Mesa, Jr. The Hernandez family is represented by Bob Hilliard, Steve Shadowen and Stephen Vladeck. Said Bob Hilliard, the lead attorney representing the Hernandez family, "The justices knew that they must once again tackle this issue head on, and it appears they have decided that this time it's time. The 5th circuit's circuitous opinion offers no clarity or consistency for either sideand the deadly practice of agents, standing in the United States and shooting innocent kids across the border must be stopped. It's never right. It's never constitutional. This is one of those times when morality and our U.S. constitution line up perfectly." The lower courts dismissed the Hernandez family's claims. In a divided en banc decision, the Fifth Circuit held that the Hernandez family could not assert a claim under the Fourth Amendment because Hernandez was a Mexican citizen who was on Mexican territory at the time of the shooting. Hernandez's family appealed this decision to the Supreme Court. On October 11, the Supreme Court agreed to hear the case and asked the parties to brief the additional question of whether the Hernandez family has a right to sue for damages under Bivens v. Six Unknown Fed. Narcotics Agents, 403 U.S. 388 (1971). The Court heard oral argument on February 21, 2017 and on June 26, 2017, the Court issued a per curiam opinion, sending the case back to the Fifth Circuit to reconsider the Bivens question in light of the Court's decision earlier in the Term in Ziglar v. Abbasi. On Marcy 19, 2019 the full Fifth Circuit affirmed the lower courts' dismissal of the case thereby declining to expand the ability for individual federal officials to be sued for damages and ruling against allowing a family to sue a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent who shot and killed the Mexican teen. Today, the Supreme Court agreed to hear the issue again, so as to determine when the plaintiffs plausibly allege that a rogue federal law-enforcement officer violated clearly established Fourth and Fifth amendment rights for which there is no alternative legal remedy, whether the federal courts can and should recognize a damages claim under Bivens v. Six Unknown Named Agents of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics. ABOUT HMG http://www.hmglawfirm.com/ Hilliard Martinez Gonzales, LLP (HMG) specializes in mass torts, personal injury, product liability, commercial and business litigation, and wrongful death. Hilliard Martinez Gonzales, LLP has been successfully representing clients in the United States and Mexico since 1986. Bob Hilliard obtained the Largest Verdict in the country in 2012 and the #1 verdict in Texas, he currently is co-lead counsel in the single biggest litigation in US history, GM's ignition switch defect litigation, currently pending in the Southern District of New York. SCHEDULE AN INTERVIEW WITH BOB HILLIARD Contact Lauren Gomez at 361-960-3146 SOURCE Hilliard Martinez Gonzales, LLP Related Links https://www.hmglawfirm.com CHICAGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Illinois State Senate approved House Bill (HB)-2265 legislation requiring all Illinois middle schools serving grades 6th, 7th, and 8th to provide a civics class with strong bi-partisan support. The bill previously passed the House, and now goes to Governor Pritzker for his signature. Representative Camille Lilly (D-78th District) and Senator Jacqueline Collins (D-16th District) championed the legislation in their respective chambers. "This is truly an exciting time for civics and civic education in the state of Illinois," says Representative Camille Lilly (D-78th District) and legislation sponsor. "The objective for this bill is clear, we want to create a better environment to empower tomorrow's voters and residents. "The affirmative vote is a testament to the commitment of both chambers to create a better environment for the citizens of tomorrow by enhancing civics education today," said Senator Collins (D-16th District) one of the Senate chief sponsors of the legislation. Young Illinoisans are ill-prepared for their role as citizens in our democracy. Only 23 percent of 8th graders tested proficiently in civics on the National Assessment of Educational Progress in 2014, and this comes at a time when nearly half of schools have cut back on time devoted to civic learning and the social studies more generally. School administrators agree: According to a 2018 Education Week survey, 57 percent of middle school leaders reported that their schools spend too little time on civics, blaming its marginalization on other tested and required subjects. "HB 2265 is a generational investment in the civic development of our youth. Learning about civics is more than reading about it in a textbook or taking a test. It's about understanding the importance of our role as citizens in a democracy," says Dr. Shawn Healy, Chair of the Illinois Civic Mission Coalition. "Studies show that young people with strong school-based civic learning experiences develop into informed adults who are deeply engaged in their communities." In 2015, Illinois enacted a law to bring quality civic education to all public high schools. It has since been implemented by teachers, schools, and districts throughout the state with early evidence of strong student civic learning and engagement outcomes. "This legislation will be another milestone in our mission to prepare the next generation of citizen leaders in Illinois," said David Hiller, President and CEO of the Robert R. McCormick Foundation. About the Illinois Civic Mission Coalition The Illinois Civic Mission Coalition (ICMC) is a broad non-partisan consortium including educators, administrators, students, universities, funders, elected officials, policymakers and representatives from the private and non-profit sectors. Formed in 2004 by the Constitutional Rights Foundation Chicago, the ICMC is part of the Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools, a national initiative to restore a core purpose of education to prepare America's youngest citizens to be informed and active participants in our democracy. The Robert R. McCormick Foundation has convened the ICMC since 2010. For more information visit www.McCormickFoundation.org/DemocracySchools. SOURCE McCormick Foundation Related Links http://www.mccormickfoundation.org CHICAGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the new market research report "In vitro diagnostics market by Product (Instruments, Reagents), Technology (Immunoassay, Clinical Chemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Hematology, Urinalysis), Application (Diabetes, Oncology, Cardiology, Nephrology) - Forecast to 2023", published by MarketsandMarkets, the report studies the global in vitro diagnostics market from the forecast period of 2018 to 2023. The market is projected to reach USD 87.93 billion by 2023 from USD 68.12 billion in 2018, at a CAGR of 5.2%. Don't miss out on business opportunities in In Vitro Diagnostics Market Factors such as increasing burden of chronic diseases (majorly due to the rising geriatric population), rising prevalence of infectious diseases, rising demand for early disease diagnosis using specialized tests, growing awareness on personalized medicine, increasing adoption of fully-automated instruments and automation in laboratories, and increasing adoption of point-of-care testing are driving the market growth. Moreover, the introduction of a new range of condition-specific markers and tests, with advances in genomics and proteomics, is expected to offer significant growth opportunities for market players during the forecast period. Reagents and kits segment will grow at higher rate during the forecast period. Based on products and services, the IVD market is segmented into reagents and kits, instruments, data management systems/software, services. During the forecast period of 2018-2023, the reagents and kits segment is projected to grow at highest CAGR. Increased accessibility and demand for reagents and the rising number of IVD tests conducted are the key factors driving the growth of this segment. Molecular diagnostic technology segment is expected to register highest growth rate during the forecast period of 2018-2023 Based on technology, the IVD market is categorized into immunoassay/immunochemistry, clinical chemistry, molecular diagnostics, hematology, microbiology, coagulation & hemostasis, urinalysis, other technologies. The molecular diagnostics segment is projected to grow at faster rate between 2018 and 2023. Growth in this market is majorly driven by the rising prevalence of infectious diseases, cancer, and various genetic disorders; growing demand for blood screening; and increasing application of molecular diagnostic technologies in pharmacogenetics and point-of-care testing. Browse in-depth TOC on "In Vitro Diagnostics Market" 283 Tables 63 Figures 405 Pages Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=703 The oncology segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR in the in vitro diagnostics market during the forecast period The IVD market, by application is segmented into infectious diseases, diabetes, oncology, cardiology, drug testing/pharmacogenomics, HIV/AIDS, autoimmune diseases, nephrology, and other applications (including genetic disease screening and human leukocyte antigen typing). The infectious diseases accounted for the largest share of this market, while oncology is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The increasing number of cancer cases across the globe, growing demand for personalized medicine treatment, the increasing utility of biomarkers, and availability of funding for cancer research are some of the major factors propelling the growth of this application segment Point-of-care testing segment will continue to grow at higher rate till 2023. On the basis of end users, the in vitro diagnostics market is segmented into hospitals, laboratories, poit-of-care testing, patient self-testing, academic institutes, and other end users. The hospitals segment held the largest share of this market in 2017, while point-of-care testing segment is expected to register highest growth during the forecast period. The rising prevalence of infectious diseases in developing countries and increasing incidence of cardiac diseases and diabetes are the major factors driving the demand for POC tests. The growing use of POC devices within hospitals and clinical settings, especially in remote and rural areas, is also fueling the demand for POC tests and thereby contributing to the growth of the IVD market. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=703 Asia Pacific is expected to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period The in vitro diagnostics market, by region, has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. In 2017, North America dominates the market; and Asia Pacific is expected to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period, owing to factors such as government efforts to increase awareness about the early detection of diseases and regular health check-ups; continuously rising healthcare expenditure; increasing number of hospitals and clinical diagnostic laboratories in India and China; and strengthening research base for diagnostic procedures across India, China, and Japan. Furthermore, the rapidly increasing geriatric population in Asian countries (particularly in Japan and China) and supportive government regulations will further aid the growth of this market during the forecast period. The in vitro diagnostics market is highly competitive with several companies holding substantial market shares. The top five players in this market hold a share of ~5560% in 2017. Roche Diagnostics Limited (Switzerland), Siemens Healthineers (Germany), Danaher Corporation (US), Abbott Laboratories (US), and Thermo Fisher Scientific (US) are the leading players in this market. Other players in this market are Johnson & Johnson (US), Becton, Dickinson and Company (US), Bio-Rad Laboratories (US), Sysmex Corporation (Japan), bioMerieux (France), Diasorin (Italy), Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics (US), and Qiagen (Germany). Major players in this market are continuously focusing on securing higher market shares through product launches, expansions, agreements, partnerships, collaborations, and acquisitions. Browse Adjacent Markets: Medical Devices Market Research Reports & Consulting 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. 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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: [email protected] Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/ivd-in-vitro-diagnostics-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com SOURCE MarketsandMarkets TSX: JAG TORONTO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Jaguar Mining Inc. ("Jaguar" or the "Company") (TSX: JAG) is pleased to report the Company has completed the filings of independent National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") "Technical Reports on the Turmalina and Pilar Gold Mines, respectively, (the "Technical Report"). The Technical Report supports the Company's updated Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources announced in a news release dated March 1, 2019. All Company Technical Reports are available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com). Turmalina Gold Mine Update Management continues to advance a turnaround plan expected to return gold production to historical rates of approximately 15,000 ounces quarterly by the end of 2020. Importantly, Turmalina maintains a well-defined base of mineral reserves and mineral resources to support a sustainable, increasing gold grade and production profile. The Company continues to focus on operational execution and provided the following operational update on recent and upcoming critical milestones in process: Total Mineral Reserve gold ounces increased 95% as at December 31, 2018 to 1.4 Mt at 5.05 g/t containing 228 koz, representing over four years of mine life based on a 50,000-ounce annual production rate. to 1.4 Mt at 5.05 g/t containing 228 koz, representing over four years of mine life based on a 50,000-ounce annual production rate. Following exploration success at Orebody C-Central, the Company has prioritized and initiated development in this area to provide a third mining area and additional flexibility. Orebody C-Central is expected to contribute development ore in the second half of 2019 with first stoping ore expected in Q4 2019. Q4 2019. Orebody B Measured Mineral Resources totaled 353 kt at 3.34 g/t containing 38,000 ounces and Indicated Mineral Resources totaled 192 kt at 4.26 g/t containing 26,000 ounces at December 31, 2018 . Orebody B, which is outside the current mine plan and does not have Proven and Probable Reserves, has the potential to provide increased mine flexibility and production capability in 2019. A higher-grade pay shoot is currently being re-evaluated as a potential forth mining area. Orebody B has existing ventilation infrastructure and can be accessed from Orebody A. (Refer to the Press Release dated March 1, 2019 for more information on Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources.) . Orebody B, which is outside the current mine plan and does not have Proven and Probable Reserves, has the potential to provide increased mine flexibility and production capability in 2019. A higher-grade pay shoot is currently being re-evaluated as a potential forth mining area. Orebody B has existing ventilation infrastructure and can be accessed from Orebody A. In Q1 2019, mine working hours increased to a 4 shift/day schedule. Hiring and training efforts ramped up during Q2 2019 to support increased development and production. The new management team is implementing work routines to improve employee communication, shift effectiveness, mine planning, adherence to plan and safety culture. Q2 2019 equipment purchases to support increased planned production: (1) development jumbo, (1) haul truck, (2) basket-lift, auxiliary vehicles, and (1) personnel -carrier to facilitate the hot shift changes. Expected ore production during Q2 and Q3 will be from remaining stopes in Orebody A and from one production panel in orebody C-SE. Increased development combined with two new production mining panels in Q4 2019, followed by one new panel in Q1 2020, is expected to support planned production ramp up. Total development rates continued to improve to over 400 meters/month from 300 meters/month prior. With increasing shift schedules, extra equipment, added employees, and added development faces, development rates are expected to increase to over 550 meters/month in the second half of 2019. The contractor developing the Orebody A ramp area has also changed shift schedule and added equipment and people. The contractor will be increasing from 150 to +200 meters/month while Jaguar crews increase from 250 to +350 meters/month. Mine designs and systematic sequencing developed for the new mining panels will prevent geotechnical delays, production delays, and re-work. Dilution and ore loss will be significantly improved when mining includes drill-and-blast quality control improvements and use of cemented paste fill in wide zones of the orebody. Mine infrastructure improvements are in progress including: A ventilation system to the ramp bottom has been upgraded and a ventilation raise is expected to be completed in Q2 2019; Underground pumping stations are planned for Q2 and Q3 2019; Electrical substation has been installed in the deepest zone in the mine (A-12); Paste fill distribution system will be extended to Orebody A level 12 in Q3 2019; A new mine infrastructure coordinator has been added combined with new infrastructure crews which has resulted in a significant reduction in production delays. Pilar Gold Mine Update Management continues to make progress on operational execution and key initiatives to support a sustainable production profile including the following: Exploration success at Pilar increased Mineral Reserve contained gold ounces by 69% as at December 31, 2018 , including Proven Mineral Reserves of 1.2 Mt at 3.79 g/t containing 143,000 ounces, and Probable Mineral Reserves of 0.6 Mt at 3.47 g/t containing 68,000 ounces. This represents more than four years of mine life at 50,000-ounce annual production. (Refer to the Press Release dated March 1, 2019 for more information on Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources.) , including Proven Mineral Reserves of 1.2 Mt at 3.79 g/t containing 143,000 ounces, and Probable Mineral Reserves of 0.6 Mt at 3.47 g/t containing 68,000 ounces. This represents more than four years of mine life at 50,000-ounce annual production. Development and exploration in 2019 include the BA, Torre, and SW orebodies and potential open pit sources, which are being targeted to increase mine flexibility and production capability. Operational issues experienced in early 2019, with excess dilution in a large stope, and fan drill production have been resolved. A new fan drill was delivered in February 2019 and drilled inventory has recovered to target levels. and drilled inventory has recovered to target levels. An underground maintenance shop will be completed in Q2 2019 to ensure improved equipment availability with faster maintenance response time and avoid tramming slow moving equipment to surface. Caete metallurgical recovery has returned to 88% following the replacement of leach agitators in February 2019 combined with additional operational improvements. CIP agitators are planned to be replaced in early H2 2019 to further improve recovery levels. combined with additional operational improvements. CIP agitators are planned to be replaced in early H2 2019 to further improve recovery levels. Production remains stable and with mine working hours increased following a 4 shift/day schedule that started in May 2019 . Additional employees are being hired and trained which are expected to add work hours and drive increased ore production starting in Q3 2019. Corporate Update The Board of Directors (the "Board") initiated a strategic review process to explore opportunities and alternatives to enhance shareholder value. The Board has appointed Canaccord Genuity Corp. as its exclusive financial advisor in conjunction with its strategic review. The review will consider various alternatives for the Company, including reviewing merger opportunities, potential partnerships, joint venture agreements and any other options with the objective of maximizing value for the Company's shareholders. The Company has also retained an external executive recruitment firm to search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer. The hiring process is in an advance stage and the Company expects to finalize the position in Q2 2019. Qualified Persons The scientific and technical information contained in the Turmalina and Pilar Gold Mines' Technical Reports has been reviewed and approved (i) in respect of the estimated Mineral Reserves and the Life of Mine Plan (LOM) by Jeff Sepp, P.Eng., of Roscoe Postle Associates Inc. ("RPA"), and (ii) in respect of the estimated Mineral Resources by Reno Pressacco, P.Geo., of RPA. RPA is an independent mining consultant and Mr. Sepp and Mr. Pressacco are each Qualified Persons within the definition of NI 43-101. Scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Jonathan Victor Hill, BSc (Hons) (Economic Geology - UCT), FAUSIMM, Senior Expert Advisor Geology and Exploration to the Jaguar Mining Management Committee, who is also an employee of Jaguar Mining Inc., and is a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). The Iron Quadrangle The Iron Quadrangle has been an area of mineral exploration dating back to the 16th century. The discovery in 16991701 of gold contaminated with iron and platinum-group metals in the southeastern corner of the Iron Quadrangle gave rise to the name of the town Ouro Preto (Black Gold). The Iron Quadrangle contains world-class multi-million-ounce gold deposits such as Morro Velho, Cuiaba, and Sao Bento. Jaguar holds the second largest gold land position in the Iron Quadrangle with just over 25,000 hectares. About Jaguar Mining Inc. Jaguar Mining Inc. is a Canadian-listed junior gold mining, development, and exploration company operating in Brazil with three gold mining complexes and a large land package with significant upside exploration potential from mineral claims covering an area of approximately 64,000 hectares. The Company's principal operating assets are located in the Iron Quadrangle, a prolific greenstone belt in the state of Minas Gerais and include the Turmalina Gold Mine Complex and Caete Mining Complex (Pilar and Roca Grande Mines, and Caete Plant). The Company also owns the Paciencia Gold Mine Complex, which has been on care and maintenance since 2012 and the Roca Grande Mine which has been on care and maintenance since April 2018. Additional information is available on the Company's website at www.jaguarmining.com. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. All of the forward-looking information made in this news release is qualified by the cautionary statements below and those made in our other filings with the securities regulators in Canada. Forward-looking information contained in forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "are expected," "is forecast," "is targeted," "approximately," "plans," "anticipates," "projects," "anticipates," "continue," "estimate," "believe" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may," "could," "would," "might," or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, may be considered to be or include forward-looking information. This news release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, expected sales, production statistics, ore grades, tonnes milled, recovery rates, cash operating costs, definition/delineation drilling, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, capital expenditures, costs and timing of the development of projects and new deposits, success of exploration, development and mining activities, currency fluctuations, capital requirements, project studies, mine life extensions, restarting suspended or disrupted operations, continuous improvement initiatives, and resolution of pending litigation. The Company has made numerous assumptions with respect to forward-looking information contained herein, including, among other things, assumptions about the estimated timeline for the development of its mineral properties; the supply and demand for, and the level and volatility of the price of, gold; the accuracy of reserve and resource estimates and the assumptions on which the reserve and resource estimates are based; the receipt of necessary permits; market competition; ongoing relations with employees and impacted communities; political and legal developments in any jurisdiction in which the Company operates being consistent with its current expectations including, without limitation, the impact of any potential power rationing, tailings facility regulation, exploration and mine operating licenses and permits being obtained an renewed and/or there being adverse amendments to mining or other laws in Brazil and any changes to general business and economic conditions. Forward-looking information involves a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including among others: the risk of Jaguar not meeting the forecast plans regarding its operations and financial performance; uncertainties with respect to the price of gold, labour disruptions, mechanical failures, increase in costs, environmental compliance and change in environmental legislation and regulation, weather delays and increased costs or production delays due to natural disasters, power disruptions, procurement and delivery of parts and supplies to the operations; uncertainties inherent to capital markets in general (including the sometimes volatile valuation of securities and an uncertain ability to raise new capital) and other risks inherent to the gold exploration, development and production industry, which, if incorrect, may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company and described herein. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of gold exploration, development, mining and production, including environmental hazards, tailings dam failures, industrial accidents and workplace safety problems, unusual or unexpected geological formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding, chemical spills, procurement fraud and gold bullion thefts and losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance, or the inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks). Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. For additional information with respect to these and other factors and assumptions underlying the forward-looking information made in this news release, see the Company's most recent Annual Information Form and Management's Discussion and Analysis, as well as other public disclosure documents that can be accessed under the issuer profile of "Jaguar Mining Inc." on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking information set forth herein reflects the Company's reasonable expectations as at the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. SOURCE Jaguar Mining Inc. Related Links http://www.jaguarmining.com SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Jujotech, a leading company in the push to transform business and industry through the use of augmented reality and remote assist, is introducing Fusion AR with WorkLogic, its latest solution that delivers actionable workflows to connected workers wherever they may be. The Boulder, Colorado-based Company is launching its Fusion AR with WorkLogic product this week at the 10th Annual Augmented World Expo (AWE), being held May 29-31 at the Convention Center in Santa Clara, California. Jujotech Logo Through an augmented reality interface, Fusion AR provides quick access to IoT enabled equipment information and immediate guidance to address operational issue resolution. WorkLogic is an open API component working within Fusion AR to deliver digital work instructions and checklists to smart headsets, tablets, and smartphones. It allows for improved productivity by giving remote technicians step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting decision trees, and hands-free control. "We are excited to introduce Fusion AR with WorkLogic into our lineup of products that are designed to help companies be more productive, agile, and compliant. Our customers now have access to customizable AR applications and solutions that will make their engineering and technician team more effective with instant training," said Rafael Gutierrez, chief executive officer of Jujotech. Fusion AR with WorkLogic, in conjunction with Jujotech's Fusion Remote, give connected workers a complete set of just-in-time actionable digital applications. Rich media content may be triggered by Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) analytics, or by image target recognition in the field. Jujotech introduced Fusion Remote last year as a remote assist solution compatible with Microsoft Skype for Business on smart headsets. In industrial settings, the combination of Fusion AR and Fusion Remote, with the instructional workflow processes of WorkLogic, allows for seamless collaboration between technicians in the field and experts in other locations. RealWear, a leading manufacturer of wearable technology for industrial settings, is adopting Jujotech applications for its products, including HMT-1Z1, the first ruggedized head-mounted wearable Android-class tablet computer that frees a worker's hands for dangerous jobs. "We are thrilled to partner with Jujotech on this solution as they will be a key partner as we scale HMT-and HMT-1Z1 in the industrial world. Innovative solutions like these will allow our partners to further refine critical KPIs to solve real world problems as we focus collectively on the next generation or computing focused on productivity and safety in the field and factory," said Brian Hamilton, RealWear Cofounder and Chief Business Officer. "Collectively we are defining the next generation of computing and it is critical to have innovative solutions which focus on solving real world problems and further refine customer KPIs as we embark on this next evolution of increased productivity and safety in the field and factory driven at the edge," he added. For more information about Jujotech, WorkLogic, and its full suite of mixed reality applications and solutions, stop by Booth #925 at AWE USA 2019 or visit Jujotech.com. About Jujotech: Named one of the 20 Most Promising AR/VR Tech Solution Providers by CIO Review, Jujotech provides mixed reality (AR/VR) solutions for business, marketing, and Industrial clients. Jujotech products, sold as an infrastructure software solution for mobile devices, wearables, and other connected devices, merge IoT actionable information with AR and remote assist. Jujotech products are used in industrial, manufacturing, and enterprise settings. About AWE: Augmented World Expo is the world's most essential AR+VR conference and expo, with annual dates in the USA, Asia, Israel, and Europe, as well as meetup chapters around the world. AWE brings together a diverse mix of CEOs, CTOs, designers, developers, creative agencies, futurists, analysts, investors, founders and top press in a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn, inspire, partner, and experience first-hand the most exciting industry of our times. Media Contact Jim Pedderson | Social Capital Agency m 847.567.1463 | e [email protected] SOURCE Jujotech Related Links http://www.jujotech.com SAN DIEGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Medical Marijuana, Inc. (OTC: MJNA) (the "Company"), the first-ever publicly traded cannabis company in the United States that launched the world's first-ever cannabis-derived nutraceutical products, brands and supply chain, announced today that it has received the first-ever authorization in Bulgaria to sell hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) products. "As the EU continues to navigate its stance on CBD, we are proud to continue paving the way for the acceptance of CBD in Bulgaria just as we have in many other countries around the world," said Kannaway CEO Blake Schroeder. "With this authorization, we hope that we can establish our company as pioneers in Bulgaria's CBD industry and leaders in CBD education throughout Europe." This authorization certifies that Kannaway's imported goods are normally and freely sold in the certifying country's open markets and are approved for export. "As a company of firsts, we look forward to trailblazing the international CBD market as advocates of this supplement's potential benefits," said Kannaway Vice President of International Alex Grapov. "We have met with all of the appropriate regulatory bodies to ensure that our operations are within the bounds of the law creating a stable opportunity for our customers and Brand Ambassadors." Kannaway is a direct selling company specializing in the sales and marketing of hemp-based botanical products. CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabis compound found abundant in hemp, has been researched extensively for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. To learn more about Kannaway and where the company's products are available, please visit http://kannaway.com/ . About Kannaway Kannaway is a network sales and marketing company specializing in the sales and marketing of hemp-based botanical products. Kannaway currently hosts weekly online sales meetings and conferences across the United States, offering unique insight and opportunity to sales professionals who are desirous of becoming successful leaders in the sale and marketing of hemp-based botanical products. About Medical Marijuana, Inc. We are a company of firsts. Medical Marijuana, Inc. (MJNA) is a cannabis company with three distinct business units in the non-psychoactive cannabinoid space: a global portfolio of cannabinoid-based nutraceutical brands led by Kannaway and HempMeds; a pioneer in sourcing the highest-quality legal non-psychoactive cannabis products derived from industrial hemp; and a cannabinoid-based clinical research and botanical drug development sector led by its internal R&D and scientific team and its pharmaceutical investment companies and partners including AXIM Biotechnologies, Inc. and Kannalife, Inc. The Company's flagship product Real Scientific Hemp Oil(RSHO) is one of the top three cannabis brands in the U.S., according to Forbes, and the Company was also named a top CBD producer by CNBC. Medical Marijuana, Inc. was also the first company to receive historic import permits for CBD products from the governments of Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Paraguay and is a leader in the development of international markets. Medical Marijuana, Inc.'s headquarters is in San Diego, California, and additional information is available at OTCMarkets.com or by visiting www.medicalmarijuanainc.com. To see Medical Marijuana, Inc.'s corporate video, click here. Shareholders and consumers are also encouraged to buy CBD oil and other products at Medical Marijuana, Inc.'s shop. FORWARD-LOOKING DISCLAIMER 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 risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Medical Marijuana, Inc. to be materially different from the statements made herein. FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA) DISCLOSURE These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. LEGAL DISCLOSURE Medical Marijuana, Inc. does not sell or distribute any products that are in violation of the United States Controlled Substances Act (US.CSA). These companies do grow, sell, and distribute hemp-based products and are involved with the federally legal distribution of medical marijuana-based products within certain international markets. Cannabidiol is a natural constituent of hemp oil. CONTACT: Public Relations Contact: Andrew Hard Chief Executive Officer CMW Media P. 858-264-6600 [email protected] www.cmwmedia.com SOURCE Medical Marijuana, Inc. Related Links http://www.medicalmarijuanainc.com NEW YORK, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- OUTFRONT Media Inc. (NYSE: OUT) announced today that Jeremy Male, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, is scheduled to present at the 21st Annual Credit Suisse Communications Conference in New York, New York on Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time. A live and replay audio webcast will be available on the investor relations section of the Company's website at www.OUTFRONTmedia.com. About OUTFRONT Media Inc. OUTFRONT leverages the power of technology, location and creativity to connect brands with consumers outside of their homes through one of the largest and most diverse sets of billboard, transit, and mobile assets in North America. Through its ON Smart Media platform, OUTFRONT is implementing digital technology that will fundamentally change the ways advertisers engage audiences on-the-go. SOURCE OUTFRONT Media Inc. Related Links http://www.outfrontmedia.com BOCA RATON, Fla., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Peroxfarma, which is introducing the Epaplus Arthicare supplement product line to the U.S. market this year, urges everyone to take stock of their aches and pains during National Arthritis Awareness Month. Health.com reports four myths that people have about arthritis: Arthritis only affects the aging. Joint health is not a serious issue. Those with arthritis should avoid exercise. There is no treatment for arthritis. "There is a lot of confusion about arthritis. As a health and wellness company, we want to educate everyone about the seriousness of arthritis," said Joan Xiol Foret, the CEO of Peroxfarma, which is based in Barcelona, Spain. "Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, affects more than 27 million people in America. In total, about 54 million adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis. "Observances, such as National Arthritis Awareness Month, are a great opportunity to educate people," she added. "Regardless of your age, you can have arthritis. Find out today what your options are?" As a leading European pharmaceutical company, Peroxfarma has developed a worldwide reputation as a pioneer in joint-care supplements. The Epaplus Arthicare products offer a unique combination of ingredients (Hydrolysed collagen, Silicon, Hyaluronic acid, vitamins and Magnesium) that provides multiple benefits to joints and bones. Arthicare products also come in different flavors and formats powder, liquid, tablets, single-dose sachets to meet the needs of consumers. Arthritis is a major public health issue in America. The Arthritis Foundation estimates that more than 78 million people will have doctor-diagnosed arthritis by the year 2040. As the Baby Boomer Generation ages, arthritis will affect more and more people. "We urge everyone to see a doctor if they believe they may have arthritis. The earlier the diagnosis, the better," Xiol said. "Along with what your doctor advises, we believe our Arthicare products can help you." Peroxfarma decided to expand its retail distribution network to the United States in 2019. In addition to its Arthicare product line, Peroxfarma offers a wide array of nutritional supplements, such as Epaplus Sleepcare, Epaplus Skincare, Epaplus Vigorcare, Epaplus Immucare, Epaplus Digestcare and Epaplus Vitalcare. For more information, check out Peroxfarma's website at peroxfarma.com/en. Please direct inquiries to: Andrew Polin, 561-544-0719 [email protected] SOURCE Peroxfarma Related Links https://www.peroxfarma.com/en CHICAGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Chicago-based R.J. O'Brien & Associates (RJO), the oldest and largest independent futures brokerage and clearing firm in the United States, today announced several promotions, giving new responsibilities to key executives as a reflection of the firm's continuing global growth. The new roles further the firm's strategic priorities of achieving world-class sales and operational excellence, as well as enhancing client experience. The promotions include: Daniel Staniford to Chief Sales Officer; Terry Gilhooly to Chief Operating Officer, North America; and Karen Northup to Global Solutions Officer. RJO Chairman and CEO Gerald Corcoran said: "Dan has done a terrific job of growing our global institutional broker footprint, recruiting some very strong professionals to the firm. He places a strong emphasis on the culture here which is unique and compelling as a critical part of our value proposition, and he's well positioned to spearhead all of our sales efforts globally, ensuring a cohesive strategy across regions." He continued: "As an important partner to the front office, our Operations teams provide critical platforms, processes and infrastructure. Terry who excelled in our Commercial Grains division and has extensive operations experience will work closely with Dan and other firm leaders to maximize efficiencies and enhance the experience of our clients. And Karen, who has successfully led our operational functions for many years, will assume responsibility for our newly created Global Solutions Group, ensuring that as we continue our global expansion, we dedicate resources to operational excellence in the design, implementation and management of all solutions firm-wide." Staniford Staniford joined RJO in 2016 as Executive Director, in charge of the firm's institutional business development in New York and London. In his new expanded role, he will also oversee RJO's Marketing organization, charged with ensuring the external brand and presence is aligned with sales strategies. Staniford will continue to report to Corcoran. Staniford has more than 22 years of experience in sales and management at some of the world's leading banks and financial services institutions. Prior to joining RJO, he spent 13 years at Citigroup Global Markets, serving most recently as Managing Director, Rates Sales. He spent the first seven years of his career at Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., where he became a Vice President in the Commodities Lending Department. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, and an MBA in Finance from Columbia University in New York. Gilhooly In his new role, Gilhooly will oversee the North American Operations groups, along with RJO's Client Service, Market Insights and Facilities teams, providing clients with a more integrated service and support experience. He now reports to Corcoran. Gilhooly has served since 2016 as Senior Director in the Commercial Agricultural division, running the Operations functions for the division, including the support of its Asian activities. He started his career at RJO in 1991 as a trading floor runner, remaining at the firm for nine years and ultimately managing the firm's trading desks on the agricultural trading floor at the Chicago Board of Trade. In 2000, he joined Merrill Lynch to run the futures division's U.S. Client Services, taking on additional operations responsibilities until 2011, when he left as Director and Head of Global Client Services and Global Documentation. He joined State Street to help launch its planned futures commission merchant, and in 2014 joined the Royal Bank of Scotland, leading operations for listed derivatives in the Americas. Gilhooly earned a Bachelor of Science degree and MBA from Indiana University Northwest in Gary. Northup Northup's new Global Solutions Group will identify and implement business solutions across RJO functions and locations, including in internal and external applications for product management; project analysis and delivery; business analytics, and automation and process improvement. She continues to report to Jim Gabriele, Senior Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer for RJO's holding company. Since 2007, Northup has served as RJO's Chief Operating Officer, managing the firm's Trading and Clearing Operations. Prior to joining RJO in 2004, Northup was in the Corporate Strategy and Development Group at Citadel Investment Group. Previously, she served as a Principal in the Financial Institutions Group at management consulting firm A.T. Kearney, where she spent five years. Earlier in her career, she led IT development of Morgan Stanley's global custody business. A resident of Chicago, Northup earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine and an MBA from the University of Chicago. About R.J. O'Brien & Associates Founded in 1914, R.J. O'Brien & Associates is the largest independent futures brokerage and clearing firm in the United States, serving more than 80,000 institutional, commercial and individual clients globally, in addition to a network of approximately 400 introducing brokers (IBs). RJO services the industry's most expansive global network of IBs, a vast array of middle market firms and many of the world's largest financial, industrial and agricultural institutions. The firm offers state-of-the-art electronic trading and 24-hour trade execution on every major futures exchange worldwide. RJO has received the FOW International Award for "Non-Bank FCM of the Year" for the past three years. Wealth and Finance International Magazine named the company's private client division, RJO Futures, "2018's Most Trusted Financial Brokerage Firm." At its 2019 U.S. Services Awards, CTA Intelligence named RJO the "Best Independent FCM" the seventh honor bestowed by the magazine on RJO and its UK affiliate. R.J. O'Brien was also the top-ranked broker in Oil Options and Structured Products in Europe in the 2019 Energy Risk Commodities Rankings. SOURCE R.J. OBrien & Associates Related Links https://www.rjobrien.com TAIPEI, Taiwan, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- OwlTing officially announced the launch of OwlTing Blockchain Services (OBS) in a culmination of more than 6-years of practical experience. The service consolidates OwlChain, OwlNest, and OwlCheck to target multiple industries with exclusive blockchain applications. Since its founding in 2010, OwlTing has become one of the world's most buzzworthy blockchain startup companies; the company's many technical accomplishments have become "world firsts", cementing their leading position amongst global blockchain startups. Last year, OwlTing even received the confidence of Japan's SBI Holdings in the form of an eight figure USD investment. OwlTing announced the world's first blockchain-based hotel management service, OwlNest, in 2017 and at the end of 2018, OwlNest accounted for the majority of OwlTing's revenue. The SaaS payment model allowed for swift and stable profit growth maintained at 20-30% each month; combined with OwlTing's local experience platform that provided consolidated travel packages, the company was able to expand market share. As of April 2019, the service has partnered with close to a thousand B&B's, a 60% growth since the end of 2018. It is estimated that the company's OTA online travel platform OwlNest will exceed NTD1 billion in orders at the end of 2019. In 2017, OwlTing released OwlChain, the world's first blockchain-based food safety system that traces each ingredient to their source. After 3 years of development testing and operation, OwlChain was upgraded into a platform. The primary difference between OwlChain and traditional traceability systems is the use of an open blockchain linked to historic records; each system developed by producers can become nodes and link their historic records in various proprietary formats to the uniform tracking platform for perfect tracing of the source in the entire supply chain. In addition to applications in agriculture and food industries, OwlTing has been forging partnerships with companies and brands from different industries, successfully applying the service in diverse industries such as medical, logistics, and automobiles. Furthermore, OwlCheck, a blockchain anti-counterfeiting system was launched in the U.S. this year for the purpose of providing information and records for high-value products or items with a high risk of counterfeit. Consumers will be able to trace the source of each product using blockchain trust mechanisms linked to industry chain nodes to effectively fight against counterfeiters, build consumer trust, provide a solution for inconsistencies in product information, and finally stamp out the problem of counterfeits. SBI Holdings CEO Yoshitaka Kitao states, "SBI's investment in OwlTing is an important piece of the puzzle in our global blockchain ecosystem. We believe the use of the revolutionary blockchain technology will further expand in various industries, including the tourism industry and supply chain. SBI's own blockchain financial services will be used in the future as new payment services to form a comprehensive blockchain ecosystem and upend the business models of traditional financial institutions who have relied heavily on the internet over the past 20 years." Darren Wang, Founder and CEO of OwlTing, states, "Blockchain is the fundamental structure in the future internet, and OwlTing is working hard to change the world in the next decade. We hope to build customized blockchain applications and services for every industry to explore the infinite possibilities of blockchain technology." The official launch of OBS validates the infinite possibilities of blockchain technology and their practical applications in various industries. Currently, OwlTing has formed partnerships with Sofiva Genomics, RD&D Cold Logistics, Strike Industries, Carpost, HeGuFang, Sinhong Soy Sauce, Choice Pig, and projects with the Council of Agriculture in addition to future plans for working with industries such as finance, aviation, intellectual property, and inventory management. SOURCE OwlTing Mr. Wang Hao, founder of TechTemple, gave an opening statement on TechTemple empowering global entrepreneurs by presenting innovative global opportunities. Mr. Wang believes 2019 presents both opportunities and challenges, including competition and collaboration for global entrepreneurs. He encouraged entrepreneurs to develop an international mindset and apply it to all facets of a business in order to run it successfully on a global scale. He stated that GEOP's mission is to empower entrepreneurs by connecting them to resources to achieve their full potential. The Summit continued with the launch of the "Global Entrepreneur Open Platform (GEOP)." GEOP aims to connect tech hubs in different geographical locations and provide a network that truly empowers entrepreneurs with global visions. With strategic partners in Fund Raising, Technology, Marketing, Talents, Media, and Communities, GEOP empowers entrepreneurs to land their businesses in global tech centers. Entrepreneurship comes with exacting challenges that are nevertheless rewarding. Richard Robinson, Peking University professor, addressed challenges entrepreneurs might face through his own personal experience. With 22 years spent in China, Mr. Robinson has a profound understanding of the difficulties in running a business in a geographically and culturally distant market. He encouraged all entrepreneurs to focus on effort and attitude, the two sole factors under one's control in starting a business. In the next part of the Summit, TechTemple's six GEOP launch partners presented their point of views on how they empower entrepreneurs by joining GEOP. To start a business, the right financial investment is key. Mr. Jason Ji, SPD Silicon Valley Bank technology innovation director, gave a speech on the efforts made by SPD Silicon Valley Bank to empower entrepreneurs. With years of experience in the VC and finance industry, Mr. Ji shared his view that enterprises focused on scientific and technological innovations are responsible for supporting entrepreneurs throughout the various stages of entrepreneurship. From distinctive financing solutions to domestic and oversea exits, SPD Silicon Valley Bank provides expert financial services tailored for the unique needs of startups in supporting entrepreneurs. Mr. Dai Wen, AWS (Amazon Web Service) Solutions Architect Manager, shared how AWS empowers entrepreneurs through comprehensive support of infrastructure and technical services. With AWS's strong international reputation and products, Mr. Dai believes it provides powerful support for entrepreneurs to position their business internationally. Mr. Liu Jing, Cheung Kong Graduate School of BusinessChuang Community Ecosystem Development Director, tackled the question of how to empower entrepreneurs with his thoughts on the role of incubators. He believes an incubator should provide a community beyond the traditional office space to also offer resources. The Chuang Community joins the GEOP hoping to provide guidance and essential training on entrepreneurship. Mr. Xu Fanlei, irechear Research Director; Mr. Niu Lie, corporate innovation director of XNode Corporate Innovation Director; and Mr. Li Yanguang, OPT Holding China Business Development Office Manager, Inc, all presented on empowering global entrepreneurs with their individual distinctive expertise. Two panels themed "Going GlobalOpportunities for Chinese Projects Oversea," and "How I startedGlobal Entrepreneurs Startup Experience in Shenzhen" consisted of entrepreneurs with particular backgrounds from Startup Grind Shenzhen, Mutrics, Aftership, Zen & Zany, Relay, Britwood, and 5X Ventures. The panelists discussed the growth opportunities in the Internationalization of Chinese companies and in establishing businesses in the Chinese market. Company Name: TechTemple Contact Person: Yuexi Lee Email: [email protected] Country: China Website: www.geop.org/ www.kejisi.com SOURCE TechTemple Related Links http://www.kejisi.com/ GREENVILLE, S.C., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Innovate Fund, a South Carolina based Community Development Entity (CDE) managed by taxadvantagegroup and Greenville Local Development Corporation, is excited to announce it was awarded a $60 million allocation of New Markets Tax Credits (NMTCs) by the Community Development Financial Institution Fund (CDFI Fund) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The funds will help finance economic and community development projects in Low-Income Communities across South Carolina. Whitney Ferguson, Program Manager of The Innovate Fund With tremendous support from U.S. Senators Tim Scott and Lindsey Graham, The Innovate Fund secured its 5th NMTC award during this year's round of funding, bringing its total NMTC allocation amount to $277 million. The CDFI Fund released $3.5 billion in NMTC awards nationwide on May 23, 2019. The purpose of the federally funded NMTC program is to stimulate new investment in Disadvantaged Businesses and Low-Income Communities with high levels of poverty and unemployment. "The Innovate Fund will use the $60 million NMTC award to work with operating businesses, community organizations, and real estate developers who will either create jobs, improve health and wellness outcomes, or catalyze further economic development in Low-Income Communities in South Carolina" said David Barnett, The Innovate Fund Board Chair and Greenville Market President for Carolina Alliance Bank Division of The Park National Bank. "We are dedicated to transforming South Carolina's hardest hit communities and with this award, we will be able to fund projects from the Upstate to the Lowcountry - in our cities and our rural areas - in an effort to lift up the communities across the state most in need" said Whitney Ferguson, The Innovate Fund Program Manager. Organizations interested in applying for funds should contact The Innovate Fund Program Manager, Whitney Ferguson at (864) 271-2737 or [email protected]. About The Innovate Fund Established in 2004, The Innovate Fund and affiliates were created to provide federal New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) financing for Disadvantaged Businesses and Communities located in South Carolina's Low-Income Communities. Today, The Innovate Fund has deployed $217 million of NMTC investments to transactions that support 4,453 jobs, provide community goods and services to almost 67,000 Low-Income Community residents and Low-Income Persons, and created or rehabilitated over 2 million square feet of real estate in South Carolina. The community demographics of The Innovate Fund's current investment portfolio consist of poverty rates as high as 67%, median family income as low as 14% of the statewide median family income, and unemployment rates as high as 26%. For complete information, please visit our website at www.theinnovatefund.com. Media Contact: Whitney Ferguson (864) 271-2737 [email protected] SOURCE The Innovate Fund Related Links http://theinnovatefund.com LONDON, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The world's leading attraction pass specialist, the Leisure Pass Group, has launched its first California-wide pass giving visitors the opportunity to tour the Golden State one thrill at a time. The Go California Explorer Pass offers unrivalled access to a choice of 14 attractions around California. Among them are eight of the state's best-loved theme parks, including Knott's Berry Farm and SeaWorld San Diego, with savings of up to 34 per cent on usual gate prices. Designed for visitors on extended touring itineraries, the Go California Explorer Pass can be purchased as a 3-, 4- or 5- attraction option. After first using the pass to gain entry to an attraction, holders have 30 days to visit their remaining choices. Holders are entitled to visit one of two 'premium' attractions - Universal Studios Hollywood or LEGOLAND California Resort (a two-day ticket including SEA LIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND Water Park) - plus an unrestricted choice from the remaining 12 attractions on the Go California Explorer Pass. Tours and nature-based attractions are offered in addition to theme parks. The comprehensive list of the attractions is as follows: San Diego Area Los Angeles Area San Francisco Area A 3-attraction Go California Explorer Pass is currently available at an introductory promotion price of $219 per adult and $204 per child aged 3-12 years, with digital delivery enabling holders to use their pass directly from their smartphone. Savings can be significant. Together the 2-day LEGOLAND Park Hopper ticket and entry to SeaWorld San Diego and Six Flags Magic Mountain would cost $336.98 at gate prices; 3-attraction Go California Explorer Pass holders would save nearly $118 visiting the same three attractions. Holders also enjoy the convenience of knowing their experiences are pre-purchased, with nothing further to pay at the gate. On arrival, they simply show their Go California Explorer Pass and walk straight in. www.californiaexplorerpass.com About The Leisure Pass Group The Leisure Pass Group offers multi-attraction passes that allow sightseers to explore on their terms. Through the Go City passes and the 'Great Cities' collection of international passes, the Leisure Pass Group is actively growing across 1,000 attractions, 36 cities, 17 countries and 5 continents. Each year over three million sightseers choose the company's passes. www.leisurepassgroup.com High-resolution images can be downloaded at: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/1bq6fodmzu6fznr/AAAy0U8odhtJvoZ9Te45QP9Oa?dl=0 SOURCE The Leisure Pass Group DUBLIN, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The "VCSEL Technology: Impact and Opportunity Assessment" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Apple Inc's integration of VCSELs into smartphones for 3D sensing applications has triggered R&D activities and demand for the technology amongst its competitors. The technology showcases high adoption potential across various industries such as consumer electronics and automotive in the long term. VCSELs hold potential to disrupt existing illumination technologies such as infrared LEDs and light-emitting lasers in the medium term. The technology and innovation report highlights some of the key opportunities for the stakeholders of VCSELs in the medium term. The report highlights key application areas for VCSELs. Some of the key questions addressed in the report are highlighted below. In what areas are VCSELs better than existing competing technologies? What are the key drivers and challenges of VCSELs? How does the patent landscape of VCSELs look like? What are the key existing and emerging application areas for VCSELs? Which are key funding trends observed? How sustainable is the VCSEL technology? What are the growth opportunities and key strategies observed by the stakeholders? Key Topics Covered: 1. Executive Summary 1.1 Research Scope 1.2 Research Methodology 1.3 Research Methodology Explained 1.4 Summary of Key Findings 2. Overview of VCSELs 2.1 VCSEL Attributes Make it an Ideal Light Source for Datacom Applications 2.2 Criteria based Comparative Assessment of VCSEL with Competing Technologies 2.3 Technology Attributes Driving Advancements in VCSELs 3. Factors influencing development of VCSEL 3.1 VCSELs Growth Drivers and Industry Challenges Overviews 3.2 Extended Government Support to Drive Advancements for VCSELs in the Long Term 3.3 Limited Number of Suppliers are Capable to Mass-Produce VCSELs and Deliver Quality Products 4. Opportunity Strategy Evaluation of VCSELs 4.1 Application Diversity of VCSELs 4.2 Industry Prioritization Matrix for Structural Electronics - Technology Disruption Potential vs. Current Development Scenario 4.3 ICT, Manufacturing, and Consumer Electronics Offer High Adoption Potential for VCSELs in the Near Term 4.4 LiDARs and ToF Applications Offer High Adoption Potential for VCSELs in the Medium Term 4.5 In the Long Term MAN and Additive Manufacturing Offer High Adoption Potential for VCSELs 5. Patent Portfolio Analysis and Funding Trends 5.1 Patent Trend Analysis and R&D Portfolio Areas 5.2 VCSEL - Patent Landscape 5.3 OEMs Investing Aggressively to Establish New Production Lines in Order to Meet the Growing Market Demand 5.4 Stakeholders Actively Involved in Developing VCSEL Technology 6. Growth Opportunities and Key Strategies 6.1 MOCVD Reactor Developers Poised to Witness Multifold Growth in Business Due to Surge in Demand for VCSELs 6.2 Increasing Support from Government Bodies a Boost for VCSELs 6.3 Stakeholders Establishing Strategic Partnerships to Broaden their Technology Base and Expand their VCSEL Product Portfolio 6.4 Key Industry Participants in VCSEL For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/jhec2j 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 "The Virginia is for Lovers brand is one of the most iconic brands in advertising, recognized around the world, and we are proud to partner with Virginia Tourism," Visit Loudoun President and CEO Beth Erickson said. "The Summer of Love tour captures the cultural touchstones of 1969 while also highlighting the diversity of experiences in Loudoun and what people truly love about this destination." In partnership with Lindsay Volkswagen, a vintage VW tour bus will travel to all 19 stops county-wide, including concerts, food and wine events, a Lilly Pulitzer themed evening of polo, camp out, farm festivals and more. Visitors can stop by the bus for special giveaways and photo opportunities with the classic vehicle. The campaign will commence with a preview event June 1 at the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum, celebrating Loudoun's rich agricultural history, and officially kick off with Woodstock in the Gap June 7 and 8. This two-day festival in the historic town of Hillsboro includes multiple music acts, family crafts, local craft beverages and more. The tour will end August 17 with the Lindsay VW Summer of Love Music Festival presented by iHeart Radio. Held at B Chord Brewing Company, the day will feature a variety of musicians, songwriters, local artisans and food vendors. Several stops throughout the tour will also feature the special 50 Years of Love wine, being released by Tarara Winery, and limited-edition 50 Years of Love craft beer from B Chord Brewing. For more information and a complete list of events visit www.visitloudoun.org/summeroflove #LoCoSummerofLove #LoveLoudoun #50YearsOfLove #ShareWhatYouLove #LoveVA SOURCE Visit Loudoun Related Links www.visitloudoun.org SAN DIEGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholder rights law firm Johnson Fistel, LLP has launched an investigation into whether the board members of WABCO Holdings Inc. (NYSE: WBC) ("WABCO") breached their fiduciary duties in connection with the proposed sale of the Company to ZF Friedrichshafen AG ("ZF"). On March 28, 2019, WABCO announced that it had signed a definitive merger agreement with ZF. Under the terms of the agreement, all WABCO shareholders will receive $136.50 in cash per share. The investigation concerns whether the WABCO 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 WABCO shares of common stock. Nationally recognized Johnson Fistel is investigating whether the proposed deal represents adequate consideration, especially given analysts' projections for future earnings and revenue growth, also one Wall Street analyst has a $173.00 price target on the stock. The 52-week high for WABCO was $146.68 A shareholder vote has been set for June 27, 2019 , if you are a shareholder of WABCO 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 LAREDO, Texas, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Plan Viva Laredo, a long-term comprehensive plan for the growth, economic development and health of Laredo, Texas and its residents, was awarded a Merit Award for excellence in urban design, placemaking, and community building. The award is a part of the Congress for the New Urbanism's (CNU) 19th Annual Charter Awards in Washington, D.C. Plan Viva Laredo was developed with the support of Laredo's residents, public officials, and staff at the City of Laredo through various workshops and events led by Able City. "When we were working on the comprehensive plan we knew it was something special because of the public engagement and how much people wanted to tell us what they valued and needed out of the city," said Viviana L. Frank-Franco, Mario A. Pena, Frank Rotnofsky, and Diana Pena, Partners and Principals at Able City. Plan Viva Laredo frames a vision of practicality to create diverse, mixed-income, mixed-use, and pedestrian-oriented neighborhoods and building development in Laredo. It began to take shape prior to its adoption. Immediately, quality of life advocates showed an interest in the plan's new urbanist principles, and new bike lanes emerged from the enthusiasm. "How a place is designed fundamentally shapes people's lives," said Lynn Richards, President and CEO of CNU. "That's a profound responsibility, and Charter Award-winning designers take it seriously. Seeing how quickly the public embraced Plan Viva Laredo, and how enthusiastically the city is enacting its reforms, reinforces how important New Urbanist principles are, providing the seemingly simple building blocks for people in a community: options for home, work, and shopping; green spaces, connections to transit; and streets and sidewalks that are safe to walk and bike on." The CNU Charter Awards identify exemplary work by CNU members who design places people care for. Able City, along with winners from across the globe will be announced at the CNU's annual Congress on June 14, 2019 at the Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky. Able City is based in the heart of downtown in both Laredo and San Antonio, Texas. Their goal is to educate society through architecture, urban planning, and civic engagement that inspires, and empowers citizens into becoming city makers. To learn more visit them online at www.able.city. SOURCE Able City Related Links https://www.able.city TAMPA, Fla., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Atmos Home is going to contribute a portion of this week's sales of their smart home hub to the Autism Speaks Foundation, after receiving an email from one of their customers. It's like a universal remote control for all of your smart home devices It's like a universal remote control for all of your smart home devices In it, Stephen A. wrote, "Wanted to drop you a note and let you know how excited I am to receive this device. Also the main reason I am buying is I have an autistic child and we have to do a lot... I am hoping the device aids in tying our various systems together and want you to know you may be meeting a specific need you are unaware of in the autism community (and any other such as Alzheimer's, dementia, etc). Anyway, really looking forward to receiving the system." AtmosControl is the 1st universal smart home hub with 4 ways to interact with devices (Voice, Touch, Smartphone, and Gesture controls). It pairs those with the top 5 smart home connection protocols (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Infrared). AtmosControl allows people to easily manage smart thermostats, cameras, doorbells, speakers, TVs, ceiling fans, door locks, and appliances, all from 1 place. These include Nest, Hue, Leviton, Ring, WeMo, Sonos, Yale, Bosch, SmartThings, and 1000+ more, right out of the box. "It's always nice to create a product that customers find useful," said Dean Gebert, CMO of Atmos Home. "But after having a grandma with Alzheimer's live with our family for 2 years and ultimately losing her to the disease, this one was particularly rewarding and we decided to do a little more." AtmosControl is currently in beta and plans to begin shipping in early-Q3 of 2019. A larger online and retail rollout is planned for later this year. About Atmos Home Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, Atmos Home is developing and manufacturing the next generation of smart home control systems and accessories, with an emphasis on simplicity and connectivity. Their debut product, AtmosControl, will be easier to setup than other smart home hubs and will feature 4 ways to interact with devices. It will also include the top 5 smart home connection protocols, allowing it to manage 1000+ integrated devices. For more information, or to register for pre-orders of AtmosControl, please visit www.atmoshome.com. Contact: Dean Gebert CMO, Atmos Home 424-272-1288 [email protected] SOURCE Atmos Home Related Links http://www.atmoshome.com LONDON, May 29, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Alveo Land, the high-end residential brand of Ayala Land, bags the 'Best Real Estate Brand' in the Philippines this year for its revolutionary living solutions and well-planned communities. Global Brands Magazine (GBM) is one of the world's most admired brand publications, devoted to news and opinions on brands that are shaping the future of their industry. The UK-based magazine provides its readers with the latest news and information on 'best-in-class' brands across the globe. Each year, GBM develops a series of awards for companies that have stood out among their industry leaders, demonstrating exceptional service and unique vision. Alveo Land is committed to providing high quality living and working spaces in the Philippines, driven by foresight, excellence, commitment, and an inherent passion and drive for innovation. Robert Lao, President of Alveo Land, "On behalf of Alveo Land, it is truly an honour to be recognized as one of the best brands in the industry. We have always aimed to set a high bar for ourselves, and this much-valued acknowledgement can only inspire us to achieve even greater milestones in the future. We also owe this success and gratitude to our clients, for recognizing and appreciating what we do. As we celebrate our 17th year, we are proud of just how much Alveo has grown as a brand and as a company. Most of all, this award is all the more special as it recognizes the collective efforts of the entire TEAM ALVEO, who helped build what we have become today." About Alveo Land Alveo Land sets the benchmark for innovation in Philippine real estate today. Armed with sharper foresight, unparalleled excellence, and total commitment, Alveo prides itself on creating master-planned living and working solutions that enhance the total customer experience. Its unique portfolio of vibrant neighbourhoods, ground-breaking living solutions, and master planned communities nurture individuals and hard-earned investments with a singular vision: giving you a place for living and working well. Alveo is a residential brand of Ayala Land, the Philippines' leading developer of sustainable estates offering a diverse mix of quality residential and commercial developments that support local economic growth. About Global Brands Magazine Global Brands Magazine is the one of the world's best branding publications. The magazine provides the reader with up-to-date news, reviews, polls on brands across the globe. The Magazine is headquartered in England. SOURCE Global Brands Publications Limited DALLAS, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Alternet Systems, Inc. (USOTC: ALYI) ("ALYI") today announced implementing a management restructuring plan in a strategic partnership designed to trigger 1000% revenue growth. The company has recently announced a number of developments regarding major business developments to advance its electric vehicle production and sales in Africa. The company has signed $1.5 million in orders for its ReVolt Electric Motorcycles in Africa. The company has $2 million in orders for its electric motorcycles overall. The company is also developing an opportunity to assemble its electric motorcycles in Africa in conjunction with a $20 million order for the ReVolt Electric Motorcycles. The management restructuring announced today includes a management swap with a partner company key to the ALYI opportunity in Africa. On Thursday, May 30th, later this week, ALYI will publish an online presentation on the company's website detailing the management restructuring designed to trigger bringing to fruition the initiative in Africa that would rapidly increase ALYI's orders from $2 million to over $20 million. ALYI is focused on offering varied, environmentally sustainable, energy storage solutions for targeted markets, including consumer electric vehicles and military applications. The first product category is lithium battery-powered motorcycles, to be followed by motorbikes. ALYI also has an ongoing hemp energy storage initiative leading its current efforts to introduce an alternative to lithium batteries. Disclaimer/Safe Harbor: This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Litigation Reform Act. The statements reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events that involve risks and uncertainties. Among others, these risks include the expectation that any of the companies mentioned herein will achieve significant sales, the failure to meet schedule or performance requirements of the companies' contracts, the companies' liquidity position, the companies' ability to obtain new contracts, the emergence of competitors with greater financial resources and the impact of competitive pricing. In the light of these uncertainties, the forward-looking events referred to in this release might not occur. For more information, please visit: http://www.alternetsystemsinc.com Alternet Systems, Inc. Contact: Randell Torno [email protected] +1-800-713-0297 SOURCE Alternet Systems, Inc. AGOURA HILLS, Calif., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- American Homes 4 Rent (NYSE: AMH) (the "Company"), a leading provider of high-quality single-family homes for rent, announced today that members of the Company's management team will participate in a roundtable discussion at the NAREIT REITweek 2019 Conference at the New York Hilton Midtown. The roundtable discussion will begin at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, June 4, 2019. A live audio webcast will be available on the Company's website at www.americanhomes4rent.com under the "For Investors" tab. A replay of the webcast will be available through June 18, 2019. About American Homes 4 Rent American Homes 4 Rent (NYSE: AMH) is a leader in the single-family home rental industry and "American Homes 4 Rent" is fast becoming a nationally recognized brand for rental homes, known for high-quality, good value and tenant satisfaction. We are an internally managed Maryland real estate investment trust, or REIT, focused on acquiring, developing, renovating, leasing, and operating attractive, single-family homes as rental properties. As of March 31, 2019, we owned approximately 52,923 single-family properties, in selected submarkets in 22 states. Additional information about American Homes 4 Rent is available on our website at www.americanhomes4rent.com. Contact: American Homes 4 Rent Investor Relations Phone: (855)794-2447 Email: [email protected] SOURCE American Homes 4 Rent Related Links https://www.americanhomes4rent.com MANALAPAN, N.J. and BASKING RIDGE, N.J., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Armas Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Micro Labs USA, Inc. have announced today, the forming of a strategic collaboration to bring select multisource injectable products to the U.S. market. The first product, Diphenhydramine Injection 50mg/1mL, is slated to be launched in May. Diphenhydramine has been seen on the FDA Drug Shortage list since September of 2018. Additional product launches are set for the second quarter of 2019. The market size of these products total $100 million annually, according to IMS data. "Armas Pharmaceuticals is excited to partner with Micro Labs as we look to expand our product line across multiple therapeutic classes," said John Niemi, President and CEO of Armas. "Our first launch with Micro Labs, Diphenhydramine Injection 50mg/1mL, is a medicinal drug used widely in the healthcare space. It is our aim to make this product available at affordable pricing to patients in need of the same. This medication reinforces our ultimate goal to bring high quality, affordable drugs that are needed in the U.S. market." Ashok Jain, Director of Micro Labs USA, Inc. said, "Micro and Armas have been working together on various ideas and projects. We are proud to be associated with Armas and we truly value the rich experience and understanding of the US healthcare sector they bring to the partnership." About Armas Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Armas Pharmaceuticals is a generic pharmaceutical company delivering an ever-growing portfolio of high quality products that provide convenience, affordability and consistency. Through the development of strong partnerships and industry relationships, Armas maintains this pipeline of products with customer and patient satisfaction in mind. Headquartered in Manalapan, New Jersey, Armas Pharmaceuticals is always open to new partnership opportunities and ways to offer our customers the best products at affordable prices. For more information please visit ArmasPharmaceuticals.com. About Micro Labs USA, Inc. Micro Labs, established in 1972, is today one of the leading Pharmaceutical companies in India. Micro Labs is an integrated Pharmaceutical Company having its presence in the entire value chain from Research & Development, Manufacturing and Marketing of both active ingredients and formulations. With a sharp focus on quality affordable medicines, Micro Labs USA markets its full range of oral, ophthalmic and injectable formulations on its own, as well as by forging strategic partnerships. Mr. Jain added that over the last four decades, Micro has been relentlessly pursuing its vision of serving healthcare needs in multiple countries and today building on its legacy of success, Micro enters a new chapter in the US through this partnership with Armas. Contact: John Niemi 888-831-2292 [email protected] SOURCE Armas Pharmaceuticals MARINA DEL REY, Calif, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Armata Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NYSE American: ARMP), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on precisely targeted bacteriophage therapeutics for antibiotic-resistant infections, today announced the publication of a case study involving a cystic fibrosis patient who was successfully treated for a multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection with the Company's natural phage product, AP-PA01. The paper, entitled "Successful adjunctive use of bacteriophage therapy for treatment of multidrugresistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in a cystic fibrosis patient," appears in the peer-reviewed journal Infection. In addition to its work with AP-PA01, Armata is engineering its Pseudomonas aeruginosa phage to create a new, synthetic phage product, AP-PA02. "The publication of this successful treatment case study, with an Armata phage administered through our single-patient expanded access program, adds to the impressive and growing body of evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of our phage product candidates, and bacteriophage in general," said Todd R. Patrick, Chief Executive Officer of Armata. "To solidify our position as a leader in the development of phage-based therapeutics, we are currently working with key opinion leaders to map out an efficient clinical strategy for both our Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus phage product candidates, and plan to file an IND later this year for our Staphylococcus phage candidate. Treatment of single patients through the expanded access program has been very helpful in demonstrating the promise of phage therapy. However, the reality is that supporting compassionate use cases limits our ability to focus our resources on formal clinical trials required for FDA approval to bring a potential solution to all patients suffering from drug-resistant bacterial infections. With the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, it is extremely important that we take the necessary steps to perform rigorous clinical trials so we can move toward commercialization of alternatives to traditional antibiotics." Mr. Patrick added, "As such, we plan to end our single-patient expanded access program and instead focus on demonstrating phage efficacy through well-powered clinical trials. The work in these two lead programs will pave the way for development of new phage product candidates, natural or synthetic, that address additional unmet medical need and create new opportunities for corporate or government partnerships." "Patients suffering from cystic fibrosis are particularly vulnerable to Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections, and repeated exposure to antibiotics puts them at high risk for developing multidrug resistant strains," said Saima Aslam, MD, MS, Associate Professor, Medical Director, Solid Organ Transplant Infectious Diseases, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health at the University of California, San Diego, principal investigator and co-author of the paper. "This particular cystic fibrosis patient who was awaiting a lung transplant developed multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia and worsening respiratory failure that persisted despite treatment with multiple antibiotics. She also developed renal failure as an adverse event from one of her antibiotics. Only after phage therapy was introduced as an adjunct to antibiotic treatment did the infection resolve, and the patient went on to receive a bilateral lung transplant. Additionally, her renal failure resolved as we were able to stop the nephrotoxic antibiotic once the phage was added to her treatment regimen. This successful outcome speaks to the great potential of phage-based therapeutics to address the growing threat of antibiotic resistance and provides very strong rationale for continued development." Management to Host Key Opinion Leader (KOL) Meeting The management team of Armata will be hosting a bacteriophage KOL meeting and webcast on Wednesday, June 26 at 12:00pm EDT. The event will feature a presentation by Robert Schooley, MD (University of California, San Diego), who will discuss the rapidly growing antibiotic resistance crisis, and the urgent need for the development of new antibiotic alternatives. Dr. Schooley will be available to answer questions following the lunch. Armata management will also provide an overview of the company's phage-based product candidates aimed to address areas of significant unmet clinical need by targeting key antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Armata's lead product candidate, AP-SA01, is a Phase 1/2-ready asset that targets Staphylococcus aureus, including multidrug-resistant strains. In addition, Armata is also developing and advancing a broad pipeline of proprietary synthetic phage candidates, including a synthetic phage for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Armata has also partnered with Merck to develop proprietary synthetic phage candidates designed to target an undisclosed infectious disease agent. The live webcast of the event can be found at: http://lifesci.rampard.com/20190626/reg.jsp Phage Therapeutics Phage therapeutics are uniquely positioned to address the threat of antibiotic-resistance as they can be precisely targeted to kill select bacteria, have a differentiated mechanism of action, can penetrate and disrupt biofilms (a common bacterial defense mechanism against antibiotics), are potentially synergistic with antibiotics and have been shown to restore antibiotic sensitivity to drug-resistant bacteria. About Armata Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Armata is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development of precisely targeted bacteriophage therapeutics for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant infections using its proprietary bacteriophage-based technology. Armata's lead product candidate, AP-SA01, targets Staphylococcus aureus including multidrug-resistant strains. The Company is also developing and advancing a broad pipeline of synthetic phage candidates, including a synthetic phage for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, leveraging its proprietary phage-specific GMP manufacturing capabilities. In collaboration with Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, Armata is developing proprietary synthetic phage candidates to target an undisclosed infectious disease agent. Forward Looking Statements This communication contains "forward-looking" statements, including, without limitation, statements related to the anticipated benefits of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement and related transactions, the anticipated benefits of the sale of $10 million of Armata's common stock to certain shareholders of Armata immediately following the closing of the merger, and statements related to the anticipated initiation of a clinical trial of AB-SA01 for the treatment of S. aureus bacteremia later in 2019. Any statements contained in this communication that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon Armata's current expectations. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Armata's actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation, related to Armata's ability to successfully integrate the operations of AmpliPhi Biosciences Corporation and C3J Therapeutics, Inc. and achieve the potential benefits of the merger; the company's ability to advance its preclinical and clinical programs and the uncertain and time-consuming regulatory approval process. Additional risks and uncertainties relating to Armata and its business can be found under the caption "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in Armata's filings and reports with the SEC, including in Armata's Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on March 25, 2019, and Armata's subsequent filings with the SEC. Armata expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Armata's expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based. Media Contacts: At the Company: Steve Martin Armata Pharmaceuticals, Inc. [email protected] (858) 800-2492 Investor Relations: Joyce Allaire LifeSci Advisors, LLC [email protected] 212-915-2569 SOURCE Armata Pharmaceuticals, Inc. SCHAUMBURG, Ill., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Ahead of the 2019 Atlantic hurricane season, Zurich Insurance is launching a new Continuing Education (CE)-accredited training program on building resilience to severe weather events. The two-hour program, The Post Event Review Capability (PERC) Program and Insurance: Analyzing Resilience and Insurance Protection, is available in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina and satisfies requirements for two insurance CE credits. The program will educate insurance distributors and Zurich customers on Zurich's award-winning PERC methodology, a comprehensive, robust analytical tool designed to help all community stakeholders learn from past disasters to make their communities more resilient. The program will also share lessons learned from conducting 14 post-event reviews of disasters and explain the types of insurance offerings and resilience measures available to businesses and communities. "This training program is premised on the clear understanding that our customers don't conduct business in a vacuum," said Zurich North America Chief Claims Officer Paul Lavelle. "We are all part of communities where we live, work and do business. At Zurich, we see it as our responsibility to share what we've learned from studying disasters with the hope of making our communities we serve safer and more resilient." Insurance distributors and Zurich customers who attend the training program will gain the following knowledge: Understand the history and background of the PERC methodology; Learn how the methodology helps communities develop a systematic, disciplined approach to preparing for a disaster before, during and after it occurs; Identify the characteristics that resilient communities exhibit that enables them to effectively plan for, endure and recover quickly from a disaster; Understand the elements of the PERC framework and how it is utilized to conduct a post-event analysis of a community's response to a disaster and how that analysis is used to frame "lessons learned" and areas in which the community can enhance its resilience; Understand how insurance relates to effective PERC planning, what obstacles stand in the way of securing adequate coverage, the role the industry needs to play throughout the pre- and post-disaster cycle and the range of coverages needed; and Review key findings from recent post-event reviews conducted in the United States . This new training program is based on extensive research conducted by Zurich on disasters around the world and implications for developing and building resilience, including effective insurance programming. It also aligns with the Sustainable Cities and Communities and Climate Action goals that are part of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Plans are underway to make the training available in additional states. For more information about the training program, fill out the "Contact Us" form on https://www.zurichna.com/en/brokers/broker-academy. About Zurich North America For more information about Zurich, go to https://www.zurichna.com/zna/services/about-zurich SOURCE Zurich North America Related Links https://www.zurichna.com/en Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 28) Rank-and-file workers in the hotel and restaurant sector may soon look forward to fully receiving service charge after the Senate ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the Service Charge bill Tuesday night. Should the House of Representatives ratify the same before the 17th Congress adjourns next week, the bill would be submitted to the President for signing into law. Currently, the Labor Code states that service charges collected by hotels, restaurants and other establishments should be distributed at a rate of 85 percent to covered employees and 15 percent to the management. Should the bill be signed into law, 100 percent of the service charge will go to the employees, not the management. Senate Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resources Development chair Joel Villanueva said that they have received several complaints from employees on how the above mentioned split is distributed in reverse, with employees only getting 15 percent. "Maraming mga datos tayo, maraming mga survey, maraming mga complaints, even establishments in Quezon City na baliktad pa nangyayari, 15 percent nakukuha ng waiters, tapos 85 percent nakukuha ng management," Villanueva said. [Translation: We have data, surveys and complaints, some from establishments in Quezon City, that say the reverse is happening. Waiters get 15 percent, while management gets 85 percent.] Management, Villanueva explained, has been using the 15 percent to augment salaries, or cover breakage and pilferage costs. The Senate is expected to ratify the bicameral conference committee report on Thursday. CNN Philippines Correspondent Joyce Ilas contributed to this report. Newly formed Paris and London based venture capital firm Future Positive Capital has launched its Pan-European deep tech fund and held the first close, at $57.1m. Backers included top tier institutional investors such as Bpifrance, Draper Esprit, the European Investment Fund and Isomer Capital, family offices and individuals like Bertrand Badre, Walter Butler, Henri de Castries, Marie Eriksson, Robin Klein, Francois Lemarchand; and Frederic Lemoine. Launched by Sofia Hmich, Alexandre Terrien, and Michael Rosen, Future Positive Capital seeks Europes boldest entrepreneurs who use advances in artificial intelligence, robotics, synthetic biology, genetics, and other deep technologies to solve problems such as feeding the worlds growing population sustainably, tackling climate change and coping with an ageing population. Future Positive Capital is building a concentrated portfolio of 20 to 25 investments in startups at seed and Series A, with a strong capacity to follow-on at Series B, where desirable. Investments will range between ~300,000 and ~5m. First investments are: BioBeats, an Oxford-based AI company focused on delivering preventative mental health, and Dutch Meatable, which is developing the next-generation of lab-grown meat. Sofia Hmichs career has encompassed tech innovation throughout Index Ventures, Europes top venture capital firm, and digital music service Deezer, where she was in charge of international expansion. Prior to setting up Future Positive Capital, she invested in companies including what3words, HomeTree, Streetbees and Ynsect. Terrien previously worked with Harvard biomedical engineering professor David Edwards to build companies at the frontiers of science and design. He also co-founded pan-African education media franchise Kukua, and scaled the French and Swiss businesses of VC-backed General Assembly (which recently sold to Adecco for $412m). Rosen brings 13 years of experience of private equity through Pamplona Capital Management, investing across a range of sectors and geographies. He has also been an active investor in a large number of early stage technology businesses. Other members of the team are CFO Eva Sitbon and General Counsel Maarten Scholten, who was the former General Counsel at Total. FinSMEs 28/05/2019 LAS VEGAS, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- As a leader in laser tattoo removal, hair removal, and other aesthetic procedures, Astanza is hosting an educational workshop during the Vegas Cosmetic Surgery (VCS) 2019 Symposium to introduce attendees to their latest technology, the Astanza EthereaMX platform laser. The Astanza VCS workshop, "One Laser to Rule Them All: The Astanza EthereaMX" will be held on June 6, 2019 at 2 pm PDT in Tower 1 and 2. The workshop will be hosted by Astanza and special guest, Dr. Juliana Jordao , a world-renown dermatologist from Brazil, who will discuss the reasons why aesthetic platforms are increasing in popularity and why many plastic surgeons and dermatologists, such as herself, are moving towards primarily utilizing a platform system. Dr. Jordao will provide information about the most popular treatments that she regularly performs and detail the protocols and case results that she is achieving for patients. Dr. Jordao will focus on the various EthereaMX handpieces including the unique, exclusive ProDeep Nd:YAP 1,340-nm wavelength for nonablative fractional skin resurfacing. She will also highlight combining the ACROMAQS Q-switched/short-pulsed Nd:YAG 1,064-nm wavelengths and the LongPulse (LASER Gemini) in a single session for the treatment of LASER toning, pigmented lesions, and rosacea. Dr. Jordao will also provide an overview of the IPL-SQ and DualMode Er:YAG 2,940-nm technology for a deeper, controlled, dual-effect fractional skin resurfacing. "We are so excited to attend VCS alongside Dr. Juliana Jordao and introduce physicians, dermatologists, and other aesthetic practices to our revolutionary EthereaMX system," said David Murrell. "This all-in-one platform laser is the true endgame to all laser systems and is the perfect addition to any aesthetic practice that is interested in broadening their aesthetic services without investing in multiple devices." The EthereaMX is an FDA-cleared device that supports seven handpieces and allows for 70+ treatment indications including the most popular and revenue generating procedures including acne, hair reduction, skin resurfacing, benign pigmented lesions, melasma, vascular lesions, tattoo removal, and much more. Backed by the Astanza service guarantee, the EthereaMX is the #1 aesthetic laser platform system in the world's 2nd largest aesthetic market, Brazil. To learn more about the Astanza EthereaMX and its numerous applications, join Astanza at the Vegas Cosmetic Surgry 2019 Symposium and visit our team at Booth 315. We'll be giving out special Astanza Rock n' Roll Gift Bags while quantities last. Click here to register for VCS 2019. About Astanza Astanza is the leader in lasers for tattoo removal, hair removal, and additional aesthetic procedures. In addition to developing cutting-edge medical laser devices such as the Duality, Trinity, DermaBlate, EthereaMX and ReSmooth systems, Astanza offers its customers a complete range of training, marketing, and business consulting services specific to achieving success in this growing field. Astanza Laser is headquartered in Dallas, TX with customers throughout North America and Europe. For product, investor, or press information, call (800) 364-9010, or visit https://astanzalaser.com/ . SOURCE Astanza Laser Related Links http://www.AstanzaLaser.com CHICAGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Though audio has always been close to Tim Pickett's heart, listening to intuition over the buzz of industry standard has been his loudest proponent. As Founder and President of EncompassAV, Pickett has made a lot of headway in the commercial and service industry by installing top quality A/V and lighting equipment to create the best possible visual and acoustic experience for his clients. EncompassAV has become a leader in the industry by designing and executing better than anyone else, and they are ready to take on new challenges, with a new vision. Already experts in commercial A/V, acoustic and lighting design, EncompassAV looks to their roots to move forward into the future of IoT, Internet of Things, leveraging new forms of technology along with an elite group of vendor partners to bring clients the utmost in A.I.-driven data analysis. Life safety, wellness and economics can be maximized by the appropriate combination of heightened technology, all available within the EncompassAV family. The EncompassAV team is about to embark into the Wild West of their industry, taking on new challenges at a larger scale, with a larger team. With nearly 20 years of experience, EncompassAV's sell is no longer simply the best in sound and lighting, it's the best in eco-friendly, cost-efficient, sustainable, smart building for the ultimate ambient experience and management. EncompassAV Commercial A/V and Lighting Projects in Chicago: Gibson's Restaurant Group, including the marquis Gibson's Italia Nobu Hotel in River West Hotel Essex on Michigan Avenue on Michigan Avenue University of Chicago Hickory Street Capital, (the investment arm of the Ricketts family, owners of the Chicago Cubs) About EncompassAV: Founded by award-winning acoustical architect Timothy Pickett in 1999, EncompassAV is one of the most respected audio visual and acoustical design firms in Chicago. EncompassAV and its staff of 20 highly trained field engineers have been providing custom-designed A/V, low voltage, network and security systems. Since inception, EncompassAV has worked closely with all levels of business from local single proprietors to Enterprise and Fortune 500 multi-nationals. LINKS TO WEBSITE DIGITAL ASSETS: https://encompassav.com/ YouTube SOURCE EncompassAV Mr. Newlin stated recently, "Between concert tickets and parking costs, the cost of taking your girlfriend, wife, or family to a concert is simply not affordable to many families. I remember when I was a teenager I really wanted to see Lionel Richie in concert. My father, a steelworker, told me that it was just too expensive. Later that year, REO Speedwagon came to town for a local festival and played for free. It was intense, and it was free. I was first in line with my dad, and we had a great time and, today, it is a lasting memory. I am really excited, knowing that so many families and fans of Global Superstar Pitbull, Nacho, and DJ Vice will be able to enjoy a fabulous night of live music for free. What better way to give back in honor of Orlando Police Officer Kevin Valencia." Adding an Additional Element of Community to the Concert This year Attorney Dan Newlin is producing the concert in honor of Officer Kevin Valencia of the Orlando Police Department. Officer Valencia was born in Cali, Colombia but raised in Florida by his parents. He later went on to serve in the U.S Army National Guard and later joined the Orlando Police Department where he served as a patrol officer. On June 10th, Officer Valencia was dispatched to an emergency call involving a domestic disturbance. While trying to make contact with the residents at the home, Officer Valencia was ambushed and shot in the face. Officer Valencia sustained a serious brain injury as a result of this shooting and has undergone multiple surgeries and remains in a coma today. Mr. Newlin said, "When this shooting first happened, we were asked to help with a small donation, of course, we helped. There was a lot of news coverage for months, but things slowly dropped off, and you did not hear much about Officer Valencia any longer. Then, one day a few months ago, I was reading the paper online, and there was a small article maybe a few sentences with the title: Officer Comes Home. The article was on page six of the paper and said that Officer Valencia was moved to a new medical facility near Orlando." Attorney Newlin continued, "I thought 'How can this be? How can this man a hero still in a coma, be a back-page news story? That is so wrong.' That is when it hit me to reach out to Orange County Sheriff Mina, Orlando Police Chief Colon, and Mrs. Valencia to see if we could turn this back-page story into a front-page story again for life. When I met with Mrs. Valencia, I knew instantly we had to do something spectacular to help keep Officer Valencia's story front and center forever. Awareness brings support and hope. I also knew that I had to work behind the scenes to help raise money, so Mrs. Valencia could have the additional monetary resources to best care for her husband." Newlin said he did not want people attending the concert to give any money but only bring their love and support. According to Mr. Newlin, he and his law firm have personally knocked down doors raising money to help the Valencia family, which will be given to the Valencia family the night of the concert. Attorney Dan Newlin said, "My goal was to do great for Mrs. Valencia and her family, and I am going to do just that, better then great, no one deserves it more!" Finally, Newlin reminds all to arrive at the Central Florida Fairgrounds early on June 1st. "Bring the family, bring your friends, bring your neighbors, and enjoy what will be an amazing spectacular free night of Grammy-winning artists and live music. I'll see all of you at the concert," says Attorney Dan Newlin. Read more about Officer Valencia's story here: www.officervalencia.com More information about the free concert can be found here: www.newlinlaw.com/free-concert-with-pitbull Dan Newlin Injury Attorneys is a nationally recognized and highly accomplished personal injury law firm, serving the state of Florida. Our attorneys are experts in the area of personal injury law and are dedicated to helping clients who have sustained an injury at no fault of their own. Dan Newlin Injury Attorneys currently consists of a team of 75 highly experienced lawyers and over 150 support staff; priding themselves on providing personal, professional legal representation to all of our clients while always striving to get the best result possible. SOURCE Dan Newlin Injury Attorneys Related Links http://newlinlaw.com SAN DIEGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Building upon its existing relationship with the San Diego Padres, BNBuilders recently completed the Compass Premier Club and VIP Patio Suite renovation at Petco Park. Designed by Carrier Johnson + CULTURE, the $2 million renovations were completed during the off season to be ready for Opening Day on March 26. BNBuilders also built the San Diego Padres Hall of Fame in 2017, a ballpark feature which has quickly become a favorite for local and visiting fans. The Compass Premier Club renovations demonstrate the Padres' continued commitment to delivering an exceptional experience to fans of San Diego's MLB team. The Compass Premier Club renovations included demolition and reconstruction of the 7,500-square-foot space with upgrades to the arrival vestibule, bar area including wood and tile, and 36 new VIP loge seats. Now complete, the Club features an open floorplan with expansive views of the park. Emphasizing the Padres' strong regional connections, the Club was complemented by locally-resourced custom materials, adding unique character to the space. Manuela Bravo-Smith, Sr. Associate with Carrier Johnson + CULTURE, states, "The design concept was developed in close collaboration with the Padres team to provide their members a space that embraces the love for the sport in a relaxed yet classic environment. We were delighted to work with many 'behind-the-scenes' members of the very dynamic and complex Padres organization, who all contributed to bringing this project to life." Jamie Awford, Principal at BNBuilders, states, "The Padres and Carrier Johnson were knowledgeable, proactive, and collaborative partners in helping make this exciting space a reality. We are thrilled to play our part in continuing to make America's favorite pastime a memorable experience which enhances community connections and enriches lives." About BNBuilders Founded in 2000 in Seattle, BNBuilders is a West Coast general contractor that specializes in complex projects for clients in the life sciences, education, healthcare, public, and technology sectors. They are known for their innovative solutions to highly technical issues, comprehensive preconstruction services, passion for sustainable construction practices, and commitment to the communities in which they do business. With four offices, 600+ employees, and a strong presence in the California and Washington construction markets, BNBuilders is a leader and preferred contractor on the West Coast. For more information, visit www.bnbuilders.com. Contact: Beth Binger BCIpr 619-987-6658 [email protected] SOURCE BNBuilders Related Links http://www.bnbuilders.com Calidi Biotherapeutics is currently developing a novel immunotherapy approach utilizing oncolytic vaccinia virus delivered via cell-based therapeutic platforms. Their initial clinical safety trial using autologous cells to deliver the same virus demonstrated safety and signs of efficacy in cancer patients. Calidi Biotherapeutics is now developing a next-generation platform using cultured mesenchymal stem cells to protect and potentiate the virus, a highly scalable off-the-shelf, allogeneic cell-based delivery technology . Calidi has proven that expanded mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) can protect the oncolytic viruses against the human immune system barriers, and enable the generation of a transient immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. "It has been an honor to work with the Department of Transfusion Medicine at the National Institutes of Health over the last ten months. This joint research is laying the groundwork for our future clinical trials," said Boris Minev, MD, President, Medical and Scientific Affairs for Calidi Biotherapeutics. "We are driven by one mission; to create an affordable treatment that will eradicate cancer and save lives. As such, we are excited to participate with the NIH in the development of oncolytic virus-based therapies. The ability to protect oncolytic viruses from destruction by the human immune system is very significant when it comes to developing the next generation of oncolytic immunotherapies." The focus of Calidi Biotherapeutics's collaboration with the Department of Transfusion Medicine at the NIH is to examine how the progression of oncolytic virus infection in the carrier stem cells might differentially change their natural immunomodulatory capacity. Importantly, the therapeutic potential of oncolytic viruses delivered by different mesenchymal stem cells is being analyzed and compared. Different MSC types have different features, which could result in distinct functional properties as viral delivery systems In Vivo. About Calidi Biotherapeutics Calidi Biotherapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company with proprietary technology that overcomes the challenges to effective delivery of oncolytic viruses. Calidi Biotherapeutics is advancing its cell-based oncolytic virus delivery platform in an Investigational New Drug (IND) application for the treatment of prostate cancer, based on previous guidance the company has received from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Calidi Therapeutics scientific, clinical and regulatory expert advisors. Calidi Biotherapeutics is headquartered in San Diego, California. For more information, please visit www.calidibio.com. Investor Contact: Stephen Thesing Senior Vice President, Corporate Development & Operations [email protected] Contact: Aimee Eucce [email protected] Calidi Biotherapeutics, Inc. SOURCE Calidi Biotherapeutics Related Links http://www.calidibio.com LOS ANGELES, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- "IP and the Internet," a full-day conference focusing on cutting edge legal issues concerning the Internet, e-commerce and intellectual property will take place on Thursday, June 6, 2019 at the UCLA Luskin Conference Center in Los Angeles. Presented by the Intellectual Property Law Section of California Lawyers Association (CLA), "IP and the Internet" will address evolving Internet-related legal issues such as California's new Consumer Privacy Act, the federal copyright Music Modernization Act, the European Union (EU)'s new Copyright Directive, and rapidly evolving legal issues affecting e-commerce. The conference provides 5.75 hours of MCLE credit. Keynote Speaker Mike Masnick, Founder of TechDirt and CEO of Floor 64, will discuss the new EU Copyright Directive and its effect on the "open Internet" concept. Mr. Masnick will also discuss the controversial "Article 13," mandating online platforms to filter copyrighted material from their websites. Other panels include Prof. Tyler Ochoa of Santa Clara Law School, George Borkowski of Coblentz Patch Duffy & Bass, and Brad Prendergast of SoundExchange on Music Modernization Act, and Kevin DeBre and Luis Wharton of Stubbs Alderton & Markiles and Tavio Hobson of Truf discussing the lifecycle of mobile apps. Panelists will host lunch "table topics" on GDPR, California's bot disclosure law, cannabis and the Internet, "lootboxes" and the continuing viability of Privacy Shield. "The Internet is a critical medium for commerce today. California businesses, and professionals advising them, are faced with complex legal issues at state, federal and international levels," said Emily Yu, Conference Chair. "This conference will provide crucial, up-to-the-minute information on pressing legal issues affecting the Internet and e-commerce." "IP and the Internet" is expected to attract business executives, in-house, private practice, government and nonprofit attorneys, law school professors, and law students. The conference will include networking opportunities during breaks and at a reception following the program. More information and online registration are available at https://bit.ly/2Wlpiho. About the Intellectual Property Law Section: The CLA Intellectual Property Law Section (formerly under the State Bar of California) was organized in 1976. With nearly 7,000 members, the Section is one of the largest intellectual property organizations in the world. For additional information, visit https://bit.ly/2X1rZBB. SOURCE California Lawyers Association SHANGHAI, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Cango, Inc. (NYSE: CANG) ("Cango" or the "Company"), a leading automotive transaction service platform in China, today announced its unaudited financial results for the first quarter of 2019. First Quarter 2019 Financial and Operational Highlights Total revenues in the first quarter of 2019 were RMB351.7 million ( US$52.4 million ), representing a year-over-year increase of 41.3% and outperforming the high end of the Company's guidance by 6.6%. ( ), representing a year-over-year increase of 41.3% and outperforming the high end of the Company's guidance by 6.6%. After-market services facilitation revenues in the first quarter of 2019 were RMB39.8 million ( US$5.9 million ), continuing to contribute stable revenues. ( ), continuing to contribute stable revenues. The amount of financing transactions the Company facilitated in the first quarter of 2019 totaled RMB6,555 million ( US$976 .7 million). The total outstanding balance of financing transactions the Company facilitated was RMB35,748 million ( US$5,326 .6 million) as of March 31, 2019. ( .7 million). The total outstanding balance of financing transactions the Company facilitated was ( .6 million) as of March 2019. M1+ and M3+ overdue ratios for all financing transactions that remained outstanding and were facilitated by the Company were 0.77% and 0.37 %, respectively as of March 31, 2019 , as compared to 0.74% and 0.37 %, respectively , as of December 31, 2018 . respectively as of , as compared to 0.74% and 0.37 respectively as of . The number of dealers covered by the Company was 47,879 as of March 31, 2019 , as compared to 46,565 as of December 31, 2018 . Mr. Jiayuan Lin, Chief Executive Officer of Cango, commented, "In the first quarter of 2019, our strong financial and operating performances were marked by our better-than-expected revenue growth and the continued expansion of our dealership network. During the quarter, we continued to focus on strengthening our core competencies in auto loan facilitation services, accelerating the development of our after-market services, and expanding our collaborations with strategic partners. As a result, our total revenues increased by 41.3% year over year to RMB351.7 million in the first quarter. Such growth is a testament to our steady optimization of our automotive financing facilitation service offerings, which has helped to improve both our operational efficiency and service quality. It also speaks to our success in implementing cross-selling strategies to meet the targeted attach rate for our after-market services. Going forward, we plan to continue leveraging our capabilities in data analytics, technology innovation, and customized service offerings to sustain growth while further cementing our market leadership in the Chinese automotive transaction space." Mr. Yongyi Zhang, Chief Financial Officer of Cango, stated, "We started 2019 with a solid financial performance in the first quarter. Our total revenues increased by 41.3% year over year to RMB351.7 million in the first quarter. Our after-market services facilitation business continued contributing revenues of RMB39.8 million in the first quarter, or 11.3% of our total revenues. Looking ahead, we will continue to invest in expanding our dealership network as well as improving the quality and efficiency of our services. As we continue establishing new partnerships with financial institutions and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to further enhance our service offerings, we are confident that our strong market position will allow us to navigate among the obstacles of this year's macroeconomic uncertainties." First Quarter 2019 Financial Results REVENUES Total revenues in the first quarter of 2019 were RMB351.7 million (US$52.4 million), representing a 41.3% increase from RMB248.8 million in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was primarily driven by the Company's strategies to rejuvenate growth and the increased contribution from its after-market services business. Revenues from after-market services facilitation in the first quarter of 2019 were RMB39.8 million (US$5.9 million), compared to RMB4.4 million in the same period of last year. OPERATING COST AND EXPENSES Total operating cost and expenses in the first quarter of 2019 were RMB282.3 million (US$42.1 million), compared to RMB155.7 million in the corresponding period of 2018. Cost of revenue in the first quarter of 2019 increased by 61.8% to RMB130.8 million ( US$19.5 million ) from RMB80.9 million in the corresponding period of 2018. Cost of revenue as a percentage of total revenues in the first quarter of 2019 increased to 37.2% from 32.5% in the corresponding period of 2018. This was primarily due to increases in the average amount of commissions paid to dealers per individual financing transaction. ( ) from in the corresponding period of 2018. Cost of revenue as a percentage of total revenues in the first quarter of 2019 increased to 37.2% from 32.5% in the corresponding period of 2018. This was primarily due to increases in the average amount of commissions paid to dealers per individual financing transaction. Sales and marketing expenses in the first quarter of 2019 increased by 30.8% to RMB45.5 million ( US$6.8 million ) from RMB34.8 million in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was due to increases in staff compensation. Sales and marketing expenses as a percentage of total revenues in the first quarter of 2019 decreased to 13.0% from 14.0% in the corresponding period of 2018. ( ) from in the corresponding period of 2018. Sales and marketing expenses as a percentage of total revenues in the first quarter of 2019 decreased to 13.0% from 14.0% in the corresponding period of 2018. General and administrative expenses were RMB64.8 million ( US$9.7 million ), or 18.4% of total revenues, in the first quarter of 2019, compared to RMB26.7 million , or 10.7% of total revenue, in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was mainly driven by increases in staff compensation including share-based compensation expenses as the Company expanded its business. ( ), or 18.4% of total revenues, in the first quarter of 2019, compared to , or 10.7% of total revenue, in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was mainly driven by increases in staff compensation including share-based compensation expenses as the Company its business. Research and development expenses in the first quarter of 2019 increased to RMB13.3 million ( US$2.0 million ) from RMB6.5 million in the corresponding period of 2018. Research and development expenses as a percentage of total revenues in the first quarter of 2019 increased to 3.8% from 2.6% in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was mostly due to the expansion of the Company's research and development team, as well as increases in their salaries and benefit s. NET INCOME Net income was RMB74.4 million (US$11.1 million) in the first quarter of 2019, compared to RMB84.0 million in the corresponding period of 2018. Non-GAAP adjusted net income was RMB89.6 million (US$13.4 million), compared to RMB84.0 million in the corresponding period of 2018, representing a year-over-year increase of 6.7%. Non-GAAP adjusted net income excludes the impact of share-based compensation expenses. For further information, see "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measure." NET INCOME PER ADS Basic and diluted net income per American Depositary Share (ADS) in the first quarter of 2019 were both RMB0.50 (US$0.08). Non-GAAP adjusted basic and diluted net income per ADS in the first quarter of 2019 were both RMB0.60 (US$0.09). Each ADS represents two of the Company's Class A ordinary shares. BALANCE SHEET As of March 31, 2019, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of RMB2,178.0 million (US$324.5 million), compared to RMB2,912.9 million as of December 31, 2018. Business Outlook For the second quarter of 2019, the Company expects total revenues to be between RMB290 million and RMB315 million. This forecast reflects the Company's current and preliminary views on the market and operational conditions, which are subject to change. Conference Call Information Cango's management will hold a conference call on Tuesday, May 28, 2019, at 9:00 P.M. Eastern Time or Wednesday, May 29, 2019, at 9:00 A.M. Beijing Time to discuss the financial results. Listeners may access the call by dialing the following numbers: International: +1-412-902-4272 United States Toll Free: +1-888-346-8982 China Toll Free: 4001-201-203 Hong Kong Toll Free: 800-905-945 Conference ID: Cango Inc. The replay will be accessible through June 4, 2019, by dialing the following numbers: International: +1-412-317-0088 United States Toll Free: +1-877-344-7529 Access Code: 10131913 A live and archived webcast of the conference call will also be available at the Company's investor relations website at http://ir.cangoonline.com/. About Cango, Inc. Cango Inc. (NYSE: CANG) is a leading automotive transaction service platform in China connecting dealers, financial institutions, car buyers, and other industry participants. Founded in 2010 by a group of pioneers in China's automotive finance industry, the Company is headquartered in Shanghai and engages car buyers through a nationwide dealer network. The Company's services primarily consist of automotive financing facilitation, automotive transaction facilitation, and after-market services facilitation. By utilizing its competitive advantages in technology, data insights, and cloud-based infrastructure, Cango is able to connect its platform participants while bringing them a premium user experience. Cango's platform model puts it in a unique position to add value for its platform participants and business partners as the automotive and mobility markets in China continue to grow and evolve. For more information, please visit: www.cangoonline.com . Definition of Overdue Ratios We define "M1+ overdue ratio" as (i) exposure at risk relating to financing transactions for which any installment payment is 30 to 179 calendar days past due as of a specified date, divided by (ii) exposure at risk relating to all financing transactions which remain outstanding as of such date, excluding amounts of outstanding principal that are 180 calendar days or more past due. We define "M3+ overdue ratio" as (i) exposure at risk relating to financing transactions for which any installment payment is 90 to 179 calendar days past due as of a specified date, divided by (ii) exposure at risk relating to all financing transactions which remain outstanding as of such date, excluding amounts of outstanding principal that are 180 calendar days or more past due. Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measure In evaluating the business, the Company considers and uses Non-GAAP adjusted net income, a non-GAAP measure, as a supplemental measure to review and assess its operating performance. The presentation of the non-GAAP financial measure is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The Company defines Non-GAAP adjusted net income as net income excluding share-based compensation expenses. The Company presents the non-GAAP financial measure because it is used by the management to evaluate the operating performance and formulate business plans. Non-GAAP adjusted net income enables the management to assess the Company's operating results without considering the impact of share-based compensation expenses, which are non-cash charges. The Company also believes that the use of the non-GAAP measure facilitates investors' assessment of its operating performance. Non-GAAP adjusted net income is not defined under U.S. GAAP and is not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. This non-GAAP financial measure has limitations as analytical tools. One of the key limitations of using Non-GAAP adjusted net income is that it does not reflect all items of expense that affect the Company's operations. Share-based compensation expenses have been and may continue to be incurred in the business and are not reflected in the presentation of Non-GAAP adjusted net income. Further, the non-GAAP measure may differ from the non-GAAP information used by other companies, including peer companies, and therefore their comparability may be limited. The Company compensates for these limitations by reconciling the non-GAAP financial measure to the nearest U.S. GAAP performance measure, all of which should be considered when evaluating the Company's performance. The Company encourages you to review its financial information in its entirety and not rely on a single financial measure. Reconciliations of Cango's non-GAAP financial measure to the most comparable U.S. GAAP measure are included at the end of this press release. Exchange Rate Information This announcement contains translations of certain RMB amounts into U.S. dollars ("US$") at specified rates solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise stated, all translations from RMB to US$ were made at the rate of RMB6.7112 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate in effect on March 29, 2019, in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board. The Company makes no representation that the RMB or US$ amounts referred could be converted into US$ or RMB, as the case may be, at any particular rate or at all. Safe Harbor Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States 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, the "Business Outlook" section and quotations from management in this announcement, contain forward-looking statements. Cango may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the 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 Cango'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: Cango's goal and strategies; Cango's expansion plans; Cango's future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Cango's expectations regarding demand for, and market acceptance of, its solutions and services; Cango's expectations regarding keeping and strengthening its relationships with dealers, financial institutions, car buyers and other platform participants; general economic and business conditions; and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Cango's filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of this press release, and Cango does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law. Investor Relations Contact Jenny Tang Cango Inc. Tel: +86 21 3183 5088 ext.5521 Email: [email protected] Jack Wang ICR Inc. Tel: +1 (646) 405-5056 Email: [email protected] CANGO INC. UNAUDITED INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (Amounts in Renminbi ("RMB") and US dollar ("US$"), except for number of shares and per share data) As of December 31, 2018 As of March 31, 2019 RMB RMB US$ ASSETS: Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents 2,912,901,189 2,177,957,831 324,525,842 Restricted Cash 298,900,155 573,869,955 85,509,291 Short-term investments 265,869,717 111,660,538 16,637,939 Accounts receivable, net 86,513,830 128,930,564 19,211,253 Financing receivable, net 5,420,617 7,260,231 1,081,808 Short-term loan principal and financing service fee receivables,net - 4,424,291 659,240 Short-term finance leasing receivable, net 1,123,703,618 1,407,413,299 209,711,125 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 61,272,518 58,605,413 8,732,479 Total current assets 4,754,581,644 4,470,122,122 666,068,977 Non-current assets: Restricted Cash 668,627,618 772,103,062 115,046,946 Long-term investments 292,099,059 492,048,117 73,317,457 Equity method investments 1,448,416 1,446,001 215,461 Goodwill 145,063,857 145,063,857 21,615,189 Property and equipment, net 18,286,218 18,673,678 2,782,465 Intangible assets 1,693,407 33,894,434 5,050,428 Deferred tax assets 100,194,993 122,170,671 18,203,998 Long-term finance leasing receivable, net 1,282,457,409 1,616,811,046 240,912,362 Other non-current assets 36,687,583 7,827,157 1,166,283 Total non-current assets 2,546,558,560 3,210,038,023 478,310,589 TOTAL ASSETS 7,301,140,204 7,680,160,145 1,144,379,566 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Short-term borrowings 660,000,000 1,010,000,000 150,494,695 Long-term debtscurrent 467,194,051 589,258,093 87,802,195 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 211,458,501 218,020,870 32,486,123 Risk assurance liabilities 173,210,363 194,586,541 28,994,299 Income tax payable 53,517,717 67,787,225 10,100,612 Total current liabilities 1,565,380,632 2,079,652,729 309,877,924 Non-current liabilities: Long-term borrowings 472,793,340 300,323,214 44,749,555 Other non-current liabilities 7,599,404 330,595 49,261 Total non-current liabilities 480,392,744 300,653,809 44,798,816 Total liabilities 2,045,773,376 2,380,306,538 354,676,740 Shareholders' equity Ordinary shares 204,260 204,260 30,436 Additional paid-in capital 4,444,078,463 4,459,355,925 664,464,764 Accumulated other comprehensive income 109,452,996 67,445,738 10,049,729 Accumulated retained earnings 698,036,438 774,254,938 115,367,584 Total Cango Inc.'s (deficit) equity 5,251,772,157 5,301,260,861 789,912,513 Non-controlling interests 3,594,671 (1,407,254) (209,687) Total shareholders' (deficit) equity 5,255,366,828 5,299,853,607 789,702,826 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 7,301,140,204 7,680,160,145 1,144,379,566 CANGO INC. UNAUDITED INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Amounts in Renminbi ("RMB") and US dollar ("US$"), except for number of shares and per share data) Three months ended March 31, 2018 2019 RMB RMB US$ Revenues 248,819,200 351,658,505 52,398,752 Operating cost and expenses: Cost of revenue 80,855,739 130,806,450 19,490,769 Sales and marketing 34,818,388 45,547,380 6,786,771 General and administrative 26,744,045 64,763,620 9,650,080 Research and development 6,452,126 13,347,804 1,988,885 Net loss on risk assurance liabilities 3,767,948 17,851,133 2,659,902 Provision for financing receivables 3,061,743 10,023,282 1,493,516 Total operating cost and expenses 155,699,989 282,339,669 42,069,923 Income from operations 93,119,211 69,318,836 10,328,829 Interest income 8,077,396 18,884,548 2,813,885 (Loss) income from equity method investments (2,333,691) 16,107 2,400 Interest expense (4,789,726) (5,294,245) (788,867) Foreign exchange loss, net (2,623,389) (1,286,492) (191,693) Other income 22,021,823 20,736,938 3,089,900 Other expenses (106,088) (1,015,943) (151,380) Net income before income taxes 113,365,536 101,359,749 15,103,074 Income tax expenses (29,339,041) (26,988,619) (4,021,430) Net income 84,026,495 74,371,130 11,081,644 Less: Net income (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest shareholders 3,934,307 (1,847,370) (275,267) Net income attributable to Cango Inc.'s shareholders 80,092,188 76,218,500 11,356,911 Net income attributable to Cango Inc.'s ordinary shareholders 80,092,188 76,218,500 11,356,911 Net income per ADS(Note 1): Basic 0.63 0.50 0.08 Diluted 0.63 0.50 0.08 ADSs used in net income per ADS computation (Note 1): Basic 63,574,601 151,404,946 151,404,946 Diluted 126,415,858 151,404,946 151,404,946 Other comprehensive income, net of tax Unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities 77,984 (38,207) (5,693) Foreign currency translation adjustment - (41,969,052) (6,253,584) Total comprehensive income 84,104,479 32,363,871 4,822,367 Total comprehensive income attributable to Cango Inc.'s shareholders 80,170,172 34,211,241 5,097,634 Note1: Each ADS represents two ordinary shares. CANGO INC. RECONCILIATIONS OF GAAP AND NON-GAAP RESULTS (Amounts in Renminbi ("RMB") and US dollar ("US$"), except for number of shares and per share data Three months ended March 31, 2018 2019 (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) RMB RMB US$ Net income 84,026,495 74,371,130 11,081,644 Add: Share-based compensation expenses - 15,277,462 2,276,413 Cost of revenue - 626,376 93,333 Sales and marketing - 3,254,099 484,876 General and administrative - 10,602,557 1,579,830 Research and development - 794,430 118,374 Non-GAAP adjusted net income 84,026,495 89,648,592 13,358,057 Less: Net income (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest shareholders 3,934,307 (1,847,370) (275,267) Non-GAAP adjusted net income attributable to Cango Inc.'s shareholders 80,092,188 91,495,962 13,633,324 Non-GAAP adjusted net income attributable to Cango Inc.'s ordinary shareholders 80,092,188 91,495,962 13,633,324 Non-GAAP adjusted net income per ADS-basic (Note 1) 0.63 0.60 0.09 Non-GAAP adjusted net income per ADS-diluted (Note 1) 0.63 0.60 0.09 Weighted average ADS outstandingbasic 63,574,601 151,404,946 151,404,946 Weighted average ADS outstandingdiluted 126,415,858 151,404,946 151,404,946 Note1: Each ADS represents two ordinary shares. SOURCE Cango Inc. Related Links http://ir.cangoonline.com/ "Weed Like to Know" Chatbot PAD employed the technical expertise of Massively , a leader in artificial intelligence, to develop a fun and interactive chatbot designed to engage, educate and encourage conversation between parents and their kids about cannabis. This tool helps parents structure conversations with their pre-teens about cannabis to inform and prevent early use, associated with a number of negative short and long-term outcomes. By having an informed, open dialogue about cannabis, parents can protect their children while creating a culture of knowledge and resiliency. Through activities like charades, quiz questions, and "what would you do?" scenarios, chatbot users learn age-appropriate evidence-based information about cannabis, its effects, the law, risks to youth during brain development, and reasons youth consume or not. Content related to harm reduction and safety for cannabis consumers is also covered. Weed Like to Know can be accessed on a desktop, laptop, tablet or smartphone, through the PAD website, or Facebook Messenger and Twitter. Additionally, the chatbot will be deployed directly inside display ads on targeted websites. What's With Weed SMS Tool: PAD collaborated with Evolution Health Systems, a trailblazer in creating digital health tools, to build a youth-focused cannabis education and problematic use prevention text message program aimed at teens and young adults (15-21 years). People can subscribe through the new, What's With Weed (WWW), comprehensive cannabis education website, whatswithweed.ca. Once they do, they will receive texts with proactive messages every day for 54 days. The text messages will focus on: Factoids about weed and how it works in the brain and body Cannabis laws Tips for reducing risks and safer use Questions to reflect upon one's use and why Alternative approaches to coping with life stress Support for cutting down/quitting Subscribers can also select from a list of "keywords" to get additional, targeted educational and support messages. Although the tool is more relevant for youth who use cannabis, or those who may be concerned about their use, anyone will be able to learn from this valuable information. The WWW site also includes an anonymous brief intervention questionnaire, Check Your Cannabis, and personal risk profile report. "PAD is incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to advance its resource development forward by providing educational information on cannabis through unique digital tools," stated Joanne Brown, Executive Director of Parent Action on Drugs. "PAD's mandate is to provide youth, parents, and youth influencers with evidence-based information to support youth in making informed decisions. Through the partnership with Canopy Growth and CSSDP, we are excited to launch these innovative tools that will put current information in the hands of parents and youth through their smartphones." "We're thrilled to see CSSDP's Sensible Cannabis Education Toolkit being used to inform the development of new educational tools in a rapidly changing and expanding policy landscape. Parents are often left out of cannabis education initiatives. Yet, they are on the frontlines of engaging youth in evidence-based cannabis conversations," says Dr. Jenna Valleriani, Strategic Advisor for Canadian Students for Sensible Drug Policy. "Now that cannabis is legalized in Canada, we have a tremendous responsibility to ensure families have the tools they need to have pragmatic, well-informed conversations about cannabis," commented Hilary Black, Chief Advocacy Officer, Canopy Growth. "It is our privilege to have brought together Canadian Students for Sensible Drug Policy and Parent Action on Drugs, the leaders in evidence-based education for youth to develop these essential interactive tools we are launching today." Today's announcement follows the recent publication by CSSDP of a comprehensive cannabis education toolkit aimed at youth as part of the first phase of the partnership with Canopy Growth, CSSDP and PAD. The Sensible Cannabis Education: A Toolkit for Educating Youth focuses on realistic and evidence-based approaches to cannabis education for young Canadians. Since its launch, it has been viewed online over 1,000 times, with over 500 hard copies in English and French being distributed to parents, educators, other stakeholders and youth. Canopy Growth continues to focus on engaging in meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility ("CSR") initiatives. Its CSR strategy is based on listening to communities and stakeholders and supporting areas where awareness and education can make a difference. Just some of the initiatives Canopy Growth has undertaken include: A $2.5 million donation to the University of British Columbia to establish the Canopy Growth Professorship of Cannabis Science, held by Dr. M-J Milloy, who is examining the potential utility of cannabis in addressing the opioid crisis. donation to the to establish the Canopy Growth Professorship of Cannabis Science, held by Dr. M-J Milloy, who is examining the potential utility of cannabis in addressing the opioid crisis. A three-way partnership with the Canadian Drug Policy Coalition (CDPC) and Mothers Against Drunk Driving Canada (MADD Canada) to increase awareness and education surrounding the dangers of driving under the influence of cannabis. A two-year partnership with the Canadian AIDS Society, which has been working on issues related to medical cannabis access since 2004, to fund the development of Canadian guidelines on the use of medical cannabis for the management of chronic pain and associated symptoms. Here's to Future (Responsible) Growth. About Parent Action on Drugs Parent Action on Drugs is a Canadian registered charitable organization, has addressed the issues related to youth substance use since 1983. PAD develops and disseminates a range of programs and resources for parents, youth, educators, health promoters and communities. We aim to reduce the harms associated with the use of alcohol and other drugs and increase informed decision making and build resiliency among youth. About Canadian Students for Sensible Drug Policy (CSSDP) Canadian Students for Sensible Drug Policy (CSSDP is a grassroots national network comprised of youth and students who are concerned about the negative impact our drug policies have on individuals and communities. CSSDP considers problematic drug use in society primarily a health issue rather than a criminal justice issue, and advocates for appropriate, evidence based responses to reduce and prevent harm from drug use. CSSDP currently runs 12 local youth-run chapters across Canada, in addition to a national Board of Directors, and is working to increase access and awareness of harm reduction, support evidence-based legislation, and promote drug policy reform on local, national and international levels. About Canopy Growth Corporation Canopy Growth (TSX:WEED,NYSE:CGC) is a world-leading diversified cannabis, hemp and cannabis device company, offering distinct brands and curated cannabis varieties in dried, oil and Softgel capsule forms, as well as medical devices through the Company's subsidiary, Storz & Bickel GMbH & Co. KG. From product and process innovation to market execution, Canopy Growth is driven by a passion for leadership and a commitment to building a world-class cannabis company one product, site and country at a time. The Company has operations in over a dozen countries across five continents. The Company's medical division, Spectrum Therapeutics is proudly dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners, conducting robust clinical research, and furthering the public's understanding of cannabis, and has devoted millions of dollars toward cutting edge, commercializable research and IP development. Spectrum Therapeutics sells a range of full-spectrum products using its colour-coded classification Spectrum system as well as single cannabinoid Dronabinol under the brand Bionorica Ethics. The Company operates retail stores across Canada under its award-winning Tweed and Tokyo Smoke banners. Tweed is a globally recognized cannabis brand which has built a large and loyal following by focusing on quality products and meaningful customer relationships. From our historic public listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange to our continued international expansion, pride in advancing shareholder value through leadership is engrained in all we do at Canopy Growth. Canopy Growth has established partnerships with leading sector names including cannabis icons Snoop Dogg and Seth Rogen, breeding legends DNA Genetics and Green House Seeds, and Fortune 500 alcohol leader Constellation Brands, to name but a few. Canopy Growth operates ten licensed cannabis production sites with over 4.6 million square feet of production capacity, including over one million square feet of GMP certified production space. For more information visit www.canopygrowth.com Notice Regarding Forward Looking Statements This news release contains "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 securities legislation. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Canopy Growth or its subsidiaries to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release. Examples of such statements include "launch two new digital tools, and "continues to focus on engaging in meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility ("CSR") initiatives". Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including tool functionality, and such risks contained in the Company's annual information form dated June 27, 2018 and filed with Canadian securities regulators available on the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information or forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking information or forward-looking information to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities laws. SOURCE Canopy Growth Corporation Related Links canopygrowth.com LITTLE FALLS, N.J., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- CANTEL MEDICAL CORP. (NYSE:CMD) will release the results for its third quarter ended April 30, 2019 on Tuesday, June 4, 2019 before the market opens, and hold a conference call to discuss the results at 9:30 a.m. ET. To participate in the conference call, dial 1-877-407-8033 (US & Canada) or 1-201-689-8033 (International) approximately 5 to 10 minutes before the beginning of the call. If you are unable to participate, a digital replay of the call will be available from Tuesday, June 4, 2019 through midnight on July 4, 2019 by dialing 1-877-481-4010 (US & Canada) or 1-919-882-2331 (International) and using conference ID #: 49309. An audio webcast will be available via the Cantel website at www.cantelmedical.com . A replay of the presentation will be archived on the Cantel website for those unable to listen live. In addition, the Company will provide a supplemental presentation to complement the conference call. The presentation can be accessed on Cantel's website in the Investor Relations section under presentations. About Cantel Medical Corp. Cantel is a leading global company dedicated to delivering innovative infection prevention products and services for patients, caregivers, and other healthcare providers which improve outcomes, enhance safety and help save lives. Our products include specialized medical device reprocessing systems for endoscopy and renal dialysis, advanced water purification equipment, sterilants, disinfectants and cleaners, sterility assurance monitoring products for hospitals and dental clinics, disposable infection control products primarily for dental and GI endoscopy markets, dialysate concentrates, hollow fiber membrane filtration and separation products. Additionally, we provide technical service for our products. For further information, visit the Cantel website at www.cantelmedical.com . SOURCE Cantel Medical Corp. Related Links http://www.cantelmedical.com SHANGHAI, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- China Rapid Finance Limited (NYSE: XRF) (the "Company") today announced that its Board of Directors has commenced a comprehensive review of strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value, which could result in a merger or sale of the Company or other transaction involving the Company or its assets. XRF is engaged in formal discussions with several parties that have expressed interest in a potential transaction. The Company cautions that there can be no assurance that any transaction will be approved or consummated. The Company does not intend to disclose developments relating to its strategic review unless and until the Board of Directors has approved a specific agreement or transaction or has terminated its review of strategic alternatives. Zane Wang, Founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer said, "The current regulatory environment for P2P lending platforms is creating substantial challenges, both for XRF and the industry as a whole. Many industry participants are considering partnerships, mergers, and other alternatives to bolster their businesses and ensure their long-term viability. We too are engaged in formal discussions that we believe can result in a strengthening of our competitive position." The Company reiterated that it will continue to endeavor to file its Annual Report and restated quarterly reports in a timely manner. Also, the Company intends to return to compliance with the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") Continued Listing requirement by curing the stock price deficiency within the applicable cure period. As required, the Company has notified the NYSE of its intent to cure. During this period, the Company's American Depositary Shares will continue to be traded on the NYSE, subject to compliance with other NYSE continued listing requirements. The NYSE notification does not affect the Company's business operations or its Securities and Exchange Commission reporting requirements and does not conflict with or cause an event of default under any of the Company's material agreements. About China Rapid Finance Limited China Rapid Finance (NYSE: XRF) is a leading fintech company that operates an award-winning microcredit company and one of China's largest online consumer finance marketplaces. The Company enables affordable access to digital credit for one of the world's largest untapped consumer credit markets: China's mobile-active consumers. The Company utilizes its proprietary, mobile-first technology to select consumers for its platform. China Rapid Finance was founded by Dr. Zane Wang, who has decades of consumer credit industry experience in the U.S. and China. For more information, please visit http://ir.crfchina.com. Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements can be identified by terminology such as "may," "will," "expects," "anticipates," "aims," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "likely to" and similar statements. The Company may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports filed with, or furnished to, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual reports to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company'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: the Company's ability to file its Annual Report in a timely manner or regain compliance with NYSE continued listing standards, adjustments to prior period financial statements, unexpected difficulties in the Company's pursuit of its goals and strategies; the unexpected developments, including slow growth, in the consumer lending market; reduced demand for, and market acceptance of, the Company's products and services; difficulties keeping and strengthening relationships with borrowers or investors; difficulties of expanding data and channel partnerships, potentially costly servicing activities; competition in the consumer lending market; PRC governmental regulations and policies; and general economic and business conditions in the regions where the Company provides products and services. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company's reports filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this announcement and in the attachments is as of the date of this announcement, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law. Investor Relations Contact: The Blueshirt Group Gary T. Dvorchak, CFA [email protected] SOURCE China Rapid Finance Related Links http://ir.crfchina.com DENVER, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Cimarex Energy Co. (NYSE: XEC) today announced the retirement of David A. Hentschel from its Board of Directors and the appointment of Paul N. Eckley as an independent director of Cimarex effective May 31, 2019. Mr. Eckley will be a member of the Compensation and Governance Committee. Cimarex Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Tom Jorden, stated, "We want to thank Dave Hentschel for his dedicated service to Cimarex since joining our Board of Directors in 2002 upon the founding of the company. Dave helped guide Cimarex to become a premier operator in two of the best basins in the United States. We are delighted that Dave has agreed to serve as Director Emeritus for the next two years so that we will have ongoing access to his wisdom, insights, and tremendous depth of operational experience." Mr. Jorden went on to say, "We are very pleased to announce the addition Paul Eckley to the Cimarex board. His 42 years of experience investing in public and private companies across all sectors, including the oil and gas industry, coupled with the extensive leadership roles he has held, make him well qualified to serve as a director at Cimarex. We welcome his perspective and thank him for his willingness to serve." Mr. Eckley currently serves as Senior Vice President Investments at State Farm Corporate Headquarters in Bloomington, Illinois, a position he has held since 1998. He joined State Farm in 1977 as an investment analyst, was promoted to Investment Officer in 1990 and became Vice President Common Stocks in 1995. State Farm is a top ten owner of Cimarex. Mr. Eckley was a director of the Emerging Markets Growth Fund owned by the Capital Group from 2005 until November 2016, including serving as Chairman of the Board of that fund from January 2014 through November 2016. Mr. Eckley earned a bachelor's degree in economics and history from Northwestern University in 1975 and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago in 1977. He earned the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation in 1981. About Cimarex Energy Denver-based Cimarex Energy Co. is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company with principal operations in the Permian Basin and Mid-Continent areas of the U.S. SOURCE Cimarex Energy Co. Related Links http://www.cimarex.com "For many people, EWTN's Family Celebration has become an annual tradition," said EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw. "Some of my favorite parts of the day are the Family Talk, where a panel of us have the opportunity to answer questions live, as well as the many opportunities to interact face-to-face with our EWTN Family from different parts of the country and the world." Speakers include Dr. David Anders, Fr. Mitch Pacwa, Johnnette Williams, Fr. Joseph, Fr. Mark, Fr. Agustino Torres and more. Guests will have the opportunity to be part of the studio audience for a taping of a special "EWTN Live Show" hosted by Fr. Mitch Pacwa, meet EWTN hosts and authors while browsing the EWTN Religious Catalogue shop, and, of course, celebrate the Vigil Mass with their EWTN family. Plus, there will be plenty of opportunity for Adoration and Confession, and children will be thrilled to meet some of their favorite characters from "EWTN Faith Factory." EWTN Radio will broadcast live on-site throughout the weekend and staff from the National Catholic Register will be on hand to answer your questions. Guests will even have an opportunity to join EWTN in its mission of evangelization by becoming an EWTN Media Missionary! It's a feast for the mind, the heart, and the spirit! For more information, please go to our website: http://www.ewtn.com/familycelebration/. We look forward to seeing you there! EWTN Global Catholic Network, in its 38th year, is the largest religious media network in the world. EWTN's 11 global TV channels are broadcast in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week to over 300 million television households in more than 145 countries and territories. EWTN platforms also include radio services transmitted through SIRIUS/XM, iHeart Radio, and over 500 domestic and international AM & FM radio affiliates; a worldwide shortwave radio service; one of the largest Catholic websites in the U.S.; electronic and print news services, including Catholic News Agency, "The National Catholic Register" newspaper, and several global news wire services; as well as EWTN Publishing, its book publishing division. SOURCE EWTN Global Catholic Network Related Links http://ewtn.com VANCOUVER, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - The Corix Group of Companies (Corix) today announced Lisa Sparrow has been appointed its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective July 2, 2019. As President and CEO, Lisa will have responsibility for all Company operations. Lisa joined Corix in December, 2012 when Corix acquired Utilities, Inc. and has continued as the President and CEO, Utilities Inc. In 2016, Lisa assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer, US Regulated Utilities for the Corix Group of Companies and her responsibilities continued to expand. Lisa holds a Masters in Management, Marketing and Strategy from the J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Northwestern University, and a Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering from Michigan State University. She is also a 2018 Michigan State University Department of Mechanical Engineering Distinguished Alumni Award winner. An active member of the professional water community, Lisa was appointed to a three-year term on the National Drinking Water Advisory Council in 2009, the EPA Climate Ready Utilities Working Group later that year, and was elected to the Water Research Foundation Board of Directors in 2014. She continues to be a Board Member of the National Association of Water Companies, having served as Vice President and President, as well as having served on the Government Relations, Communications and Executive Committees. "After an extensive North American search, the Corix Board was unanimous in our decision to select Lisa to lead Corix in the delivery of the company's long-term strategic objectives and sustained growth across North America," said Lincoln Webb, Chair, Board of Directors, Corix Group of Companies. Adding, "A proven leader, Lisa brings extensive experience in utility infrastructure, operating and manufacturing companies, ranging from the design and construction of operating assets to executive leadership and policy development." The Board also wishes to thank Gordon Barefoot for his dedicated service as President and CEO over the past 18 months. During this term, Gordon worked closely with the executive team to progress a number of important initiatives, successfully guiding Corix's continued transition and transformation into a leading North American, pure-play utility infrastructure company. About Corix Utilities The Corix Group of Companies, is a leading provider of sustainable water, wastewater, district energy solutions, electricity generation and gas distribution, serving small-to-medium-sized communities across Canada and the U.S. Corix develops, finances, constructs, owns, operates and maintains local utility infrastructure on behalf of municipal, residential, university, military and commercial customers, through regulated utility and contract (unregulated) utility business models. Corix is privately held by the British Columbia Investment Management Corporation (BCI). For more information, please visit corix.com. SOURCE Corix Group of Companies Related Links https://www.corix.com/ CINCINNATI, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Duke Energy Foundation will donate $5,000 to the Greater Cincinnati-Dayton Region of the American Red Cross to assist victims of Monday night's tornadoes. The donation will help Dayton communities and residents as they recover from the deadly storms that hit the Montgomery and Greene Counties late Monday. Cleanup and restoration is expected to take months, but local officials say that money is the most effective gift in the immediate term. "We believe in giving back to neighboring communities during times of great need," said Amy Spiller, president, Duke Energy Ohio and Kentucky. "We are pleased to partner with the Red Cross to ensure that the aid reaches the areas most devastated by Monday's tornadoes." As of this afternoon, Duke Energy crews and its contractors remain ready to assist in any needed storm restoration efforts in the region. Duke Energy Foundation and Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts, and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation. Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky, a subsidiary of Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), provides electric service to about 860,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in a 3,000-square-mile service area, and natural gas service to approximately 538,000 customers. Contact: Sally Thelen Office: 513.287.2432 24-Hour: 800.559.3853 Twitter: @DE_SallyT SOURCE Duke Energy Related Links http://www.duke-energy.com LONDON, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- ECH (European Cannabis Holdings), the London-based group with a fundamental anchor in the global cannabis market, has announced the launch of a new division of the business dedicated to ensuring that patients across Europe can access potentially life changing treatment. The establishment of ECH Medical follows the launch last week of the first platform to facilitate the licensed importation of medical cannabis into Europe, Astral Health. The new ECH Medical division will now bring together Astral Health, The Medical Cannabis Clinics and The Academy of Medical Cannabis under one management team who will support the growth of the individual companies across the UK and Europe. ECH Medical will take a comprehensive approach to improving access to medical cannabis for eligible patients by providing key infrastructure and educational services. The launch is part of ECH's growth strategy, which will be focused on what will become the five largest European markets UK, Germany, France, Spain and Italy. ECH Medical will comprise: The Medical Cannabis Clinics , the UK's first chain of private clinics, which will be rolled out across other European countries later this year , the UK's first chain of private clinics, which will be rolled out across other European countries later this year The Academy of Medical Cannabis , the online learning platform for healthcare professionals with a growing presence around the world including UK, Ireland , France , Brazil and New Zealand , the online learning platform for healthcare professionals with a growing presence around the world including UK, , , and Astral Health, the first platform to facilitate the licensed importation of medical cannabis into Europe Dean Friday, previously ECH's CFO, will take the reins as CEO of ECH Medical and will be joined on the leadership team by Prof. Mike Barnes (Chairman), Hannah Simon (COO), Jonathan Nadler (MD, Academy), Robert Whitehouse (MD, Astral) and Richard North (MD, Clinics). North has recently joined The Medical Cannabis Clinics bringing extensive experience overseeing the growth of medical or clinical facilities across the UK and Europe. Hannah Deacon, the tireless campaigner for access to medical cannabis for her son Alfie Dingley and others, will continue as Patient Advocacy Specialist. The wider team includes a medical advisory board of Dr David McDowell, Dr Elizabeth Iveson, Dr Dani Gordon and Dr Leon Barron, along with other highly-respected specialist physicians in the UK and across Europe. Stephen Murphy, ECH co-founder commented: "We are delighted to mark the next step of ECH's strategic growth across Europe with the setting up of a specific division designed to transform treatment options for patients with chronic and debilitating conditions. ECH Medical will work with an experienced and respected group of medical practitioners and pharmaceutical experts in order to play a leading role in expanding patient access to safe and effective medical cannabis treatments, both at point of prescription and beyond, by ensuring critical infrastructure and educational services are in place." ABOUT ECH ECH is an unrivalled group of companies at the forefront of the cannabis industry. It provides venture capital, exceptional talent and operational excellence to a portfolio that includes market intelligence firm Prohibition Partners, Europe's leading medical cannabis conference Cannabis Europa, CBD brand Nooro, online learning platform The Academy of Medical Cannabis, UK private clinic chain The Medical Cannabis Clinics and importation and distribution platform Astral Health. These holdings provide ECH with a fundamental anchor in the cannabis industry while helping to shape its future. Contacts: Jennifer Lipman, +44 (0)20-7025-2325, [email protected] Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/813128/ECH_Logo.jpg SOURCE ECH Third of Three Tributes to Albert Einstein DENTON, Texas, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- In the preceding releases, dated May 20 and May 24, 2019, we outlined studies by the Italian American scientist Sir Ruggero Maria Santilli (http://www.i-b-r.org/Dr-R-M-Santilli-Bio-1-10-18.pdf) and other scientists on the apparent confirmation in physics and chemistry of Einstein's argument that quantum mechanics is an 'incomplete theory.' In this news release, we outline studies on the need for a 'completion' of quantum mechanics for consistent treatments of new clean energies and basically novel technologies. Santilli states: "I never accepted quantum mechanics as a 'complete' theory because quantum mechanics has 'no time arrow' and, therefore, cannot consistently represent irreversible energy releasing processes. After learning during my graduate studies that quantum mechanics is characterized by time reversal invariant Lie algebras, I did my Ph. D. thesis in 1965 on their 'completion' into irreversible Lie-admissible algebras (http://www.santilli-foundation.org/docs/Santilli-54.pdf) with related irreversible dynamical equations." Following various academic positions, in September 1978, Santilli joined the Department of Mathematics of Harvard University under DOE support to conduct innovative research in new clean energies. In that context, Santilli introduced the most general known realization of irreversible Lie-admissible algebras characterized by generalizing and differentiating the conventional product "ab" between number, functions, into the product of a and b to the right, a>b = arb, from the product of b and a to the left, a 0. Quantum mechanics and chemistry are recovered identically for r = s = 1 (http://www.santilli-foundation.org/elements-hadronic-mechanics.htm). Santilli states: "I believe that our inability to achieve controlled nuclear fusions despite the investment of billions of public funds is due to inconsistencies in their treatment with time reversal invariant 20th century sciences. By contrast, at the U. S. publicly traded company Thunder Energies Corporation (http://thunder-energies.com/), we are attempting nuclear fusions that, when represented with the new irreversible sciences, appear to have no harmful radiation or waste (http://www.santilli-foundation.org/docs/hypercombustion-2019.pdf)." When asked how irreversible processes may verify Einstein's argument, Santilli states: "It appears that Einstein's objections to quantum mechanics are verified in the scattering region of ongoing high energy particle collisions. Quantum mechanics is valid during the acceleration of protons in hadron colliders. However, quantum mechanics cannot be valid at the impact of protons against a target due to the irreversibility of the scattering. Einstein's argument appears to be verified in the interior of high energy scattering regions due to their extreme densities approaching that of black holes under which quantum uncertainties and other laws are clearly inapplicable. The importance of Einstein's argument, as well as its lack of general acceptance by the academic community for about one century, are illustrated by the need for a revision of 'experimental results' in high energy scattering experiments due to currently missing irreversible contributions." Contact: Paul Knopick E & E Communications [email protected] 940.262.3584 SOURCE Santilli Foundation Related Links http://www.santilli-foundation.org PROVIDENCE, R.I., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- EpiVax, Inc. is celebrating the company's 21st birthday in Providence by renewing its commitment to improving human health everywhere and highlighting the work of two not-for-profit organizations that have been partners with EpiVax for nearly all of those 21 years. Clinica Esperanza/Hope Clinic (CEHC) is located near EpiVax's headquarters in the Valley neighborhood of Providence. CEHC provides walk-in primary care to more than 2,000 uninsured immigrants and refugees in Rhode Island. CEHC's walk in clinic, called CHEER, has been estimated to save more than $500,000 per year in Emergency Room costs for uninsured individuals. EpiVax supports CEHC by providing quarterly support to bilingual, bicultural physicians-in-training who serve as Associate Medical Directors at the clinic. GAIA Vaccine Foundation (GAIA VF) has also been supported by EpiVax since its inception with in-kind contributions such as free office space, and direct involvement by EpiVax's CEO. Dedicated to improving access to vaccines, GAIA VF has initiated innovative projects, such as the Grand Challenges-funded 2015 "Story Telling Cloth" project, a campaign that raises awareness about human papilloma virus and cervical cancer vaccines. In addition to direct support for these two outstanding not-for profits, EpiVax also promotes corporate responsibility by engaging employees in selecting new giving opportunities. VaxGivesBack is the EpiVax employee-led corporate responsibility committee. The committee organizes volunteer opportunities and giving campaigns that support local organizations. Together, EpiVax and VaxGivesBack have pledged to contribute $50,000 annually to not-for-profits in the lower income neighborhoods of Olneyville and Valley, where the company is headquartered. About EpiVax: EpiVax is a 21-year old privately-held biotechnology company located in Providence, RI, with a broad portfolio of projects including vaccines and immunotherapies for infectious diseases, autoimmunity and cancer. Scientists at EpiVax, led by co-founders Annie De Groot, MD and Bill Martin, lead the field in immunogenicity risk assessment for vaccines and biologics The ISPRI and iVAX toolkits for therapeutics and vaccines are used by a global roster of companies. Visit www.epivax.com for more information. Contact information Press Contact: Annie De Groot EpiVax, Inc. E: [email protected] W: 401 272 2123 M: 401-952-4227 (please text request first) E: [email protected] SOURCE EpiVax, Inc. Related Links http://www.epivax.com BIG SUR, Calif., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly a decade ago, renowned marine biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols published Blue Mind and increased awareness of water's positive impact on our emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing. This June, Nichols will be joined for the first time by mindfulness expert Dr. Shauna Shapiro and neuropsychiatrist Dr. Daniel Siegel for the 9th Annual Blue Mind Summit to be held at Esalen Institute. The summit leaders combine contemplative practice with science and Blue Mind to create the experience of Blue Mindfulness for workshop participants. "I can't imagine a better location in the world to combine the benefits of water and mindfulness than Esalen," says Nichols. "We will explore the intersection of Dan, Shauna and my work and how nature can serve as medicine for our emotional health." The workshop features practical discussions on Blue Mindfulness as well as opportunities for participants to experience first-hand the healing impact of water at Esalen, which is the focal point of three sources: fresh, salt water, and mineral. In addition to experiential learning, summit leaders hope to issue a position paper to highlight the critical need to connect mindfulness work to the environment. "My hope is that this summit will be a way for us to help protect the environment," observes Shapiro. "We need to understand how we are all connected." "One of the causes of human suffering, of planetary suffering, is our sense of disconnection," adds Siegel. "We are hungry for something we can't name. This will be a life-transforming weekend, bringing us back to the true nature of our origin and perhaps provide a pathway to healing for self and planet." Shapiro and Siegel have previously led workshops at Esalen on the power of awe, empathy and meditation to strengthen resilience, compassion and wisdom. Visit https://www.esalen.org/bluemindsummit2019. About Esalen Founded in 1962, Esalen is a nonprofit center for exploring and realizing human potential through experience, education, and research. Esalen sponsors pioneering initiatives and offers personal, spiritual, and social transformation practices for workshop participants and residential staff. Located on California's scenic Big Sur coast, Esalen welcomes more than 12,000 students, seminarians, and visitors each year. It works toward the realization of a more just, creative, and sustainable world. For more information: www.esalen.org. CONTACT: Lori Putnam, [email protected] SOURCE Esalen Institute Related Links http://www.esalen.org STOCKHOLM, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- On the 12th of February 2019 Ocean Yield ASA ("Ocean Yield" or "the Company") entered into an option agreement with Aker Energy AS ("Aker Energy") for a long-term bareboat charter of the FPSO Dhirubhai-1. The option period expired on the 1st of May but was extended until the 30th of May 2019. Ocean Yield has today agreed with Aker Energy to further extend the option period until 1st September 2019 against an additional compensation. Aker Energy is currently evaluating different opportunities for the FPSO at the Deepwater Tano Cape Three Points (DWT/CTP) block offshore Ghana. As there is uncertainty related to a contract for Dhirubhai-1 with Aker Energy, Ocean Yield is in parallel pursuing other employment opportunities for the FPSO. In that respect, Ocean Yield has entered into an agreement to perform a fully paid Engineering Study for the potential use of the unit on behalf of a non-related independent oil company. When reviewing future dividends of Ocean Yield, the prospects for long-term employment of the FPSO will be taken into consideration. If no satisfactory employment can be firmed up within the end of Q1 2020, an adjustment of the current dividend level of USD 0.191 per share per quarter will be considered. Based on the expected earnings from the existing portfolio of vessels with long term charters and the company's continued growth ambitions, a quarterly dividend of about USD 0.15 per share as from Q1 2020 is currently considered to be an appropriate dividend level until a new employment contract is secured for the FPSO. Company contact: Eirik Eide (CFO), Tel +47 24 13 01 91 Investor Relations contact: Marius Magelie (SVP Finance & IR), Tel +47 24 13 01 82 This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/ocean-yield/r/extension-of-option-for-long-term-charter-with-aker-energy-for-the-fpso-dhirubhai-1,c2827313 SOURCE Ocean Yield PALM BEACH, Florida, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- It's become tough to ignore the cannabis story. Over the last year, Canada approved its recreational use. More U.S. states are legalizing. Corporate America is using CBD and hemp oil in everything from lotions and pain balm to beverages. President Trump signed the 2018 Farm Bill into law. Congress has even submitted a cannabis bill that could legalize cannabis at the federal level. Even better, according to Arcview Market Researcher and BDS Analytics, global spending on cannabis is expected to rocket 38% this year to $16.9 billion up from $12.2 billion in 2018. Along the way, it's creating sizable sales opportunity for several companies, including The Yield Growth Corp. (CSE:BOSS) (OTC:BOSQF), Aleafia Health Inc. (TSX-V:ALEF) (OTC:ALEAF), The Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd. (TSX:TGOD) (OTC:TGODF), Canopy Rivers Inc. (TSX-V:RIV)( OTC:CNPOF), and Charlotte's Web Holdings Inc. (CSE:CWEB) (OTC:CWBHF). The Yield Growth Corp.(CSE:BOSS)(OTCQB:BOSQF) BREAKING NEWS: The Yield Growth Corp. just announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Wright & Well, has developed a dedicated line of CBD products which are set to be manufactured in California this summer. The collection contains less than 0.3% THC, in compliance with the US Farm Bill for legal sale across the United States. The new Wright & Well CBD line includes CBD Full Spectrum Tinctures, Body Balm, Body Gel and Body Oil. Yield Growth approaches product development with uncompromising quality. The unique formulations of the balm, gel and oils are founded on Ayurvedic wellness principals, and include as a key ingredient Cannabis Sativa Root Extract, made using Yield Growth subsidiary Urban Juve's patent pending extraction technology. The CBD products will be manufactured at an FDA registered laboratory and manufacturing facility in California which follows cGMP guidelines. Yield Growth is currently building a CBD product-specific B2C e-commerce website to take consumer orders, and a B2B portal to process retail orders as well. These orders will be routed through Yield Growth's existing enterprise resource planning system, which will then generate shipping orders to a fulfillment center in California. This development will be built using the underlying architecture of the recently launched fully functional e-commerce platform www.urbanjuve.com. "The supply chain and manufacturing and fulfillment processes we have set up in California are scalable and will allow us to manufacture and sell many CBD products beyond our Wright & Well brand," says Penny Green, Yield Growth CEO, "Within a few months we will have product manufacturing and distribution channels set up for all 3 legal streams in the cannabis industry: non-cannabinoid hemp, hemp derived CBD, and full THC. We are now in talks with potential licensing and joint venture partners to allow us to grow our business at an accelerated rate." For more information about BOSS, please visit: https://yieldgrowth.com/investors/ Other cannabis-related developments from around the markets include: Aleafia Health Inc. (TSX-V:ALEF)(OTCQX:ALEAF) just completed the largest adult-use cannabis order in the company's history. The Order is scheduled to depart from the Company's facility with delivery to a Canadian provincial government for distribution to online and retail consumers. It will contain the company's branded Symbl oils, oral sprays and dried flower products. The value of the Order is expected to generate proceeds from the sale of cannabis exceeding $0.7 million. In the first 38 days of Q2 2019, including the revenue to be obtained from the Order, the Company has received adult-use cannabis product orders from three Canadian provincial governments of over $1.2 million in gross revenue, representing significant growth when compared to the sale of cannabis revenues generated during 2018. "We are extremely pleased to report the largest ever cannabis sale in our Company's history," said Aleafia Health CEO Geoffrey Benic. "Furthermore, with our Niagara Greenhouse and Outdoor Grow expansion in a plant-ready state, the assets are now in place to scale our cannabis health and wellness vision exponentially and build on today's results." The Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd.(TSX:TGOD)(OTCQX:TGODF) just obtained approval from Health Canada, under the Cannabis Regulations, to expand operations into its new state-of-the-art building located in Hamilton, Ontario. The 20,000 square feet indoor facility is going to be used for cannabis cultivation; planting will start in the coming weeks. "This is yet another important milestone for our team as we continue to ramp up production with a focus on executional excellence," commented Brian Athaide, CEO of TGOD. "We have pioneered the concept of sustainably growing all-natural, certified organic cannabis at scale. The product we are able to offer Canadians is clean, pesticide-free and undeniably premium." The newly built facility is the second of three buildings at TGOD's Hamilton site, which will have a total size of 166,000 square feet when all are completed later this summer, and an annual production capacity of 17,500 kgs. Canopy Rivers Inc.(TSX-V:RIV)(OTCPK:CNPOF) just announced that its portfolio company, Agripharm Corp.has received its outdoor cultivation license from Health Canada. Agripharm will be growing its first outdoor crop this summer at its Creemore, Ontario location using award-winning genetics. "We are pleased to see Agripharm diversify its operations and increase its growing capacity with the grant of this outdoor cultivation license," said Oliver Dufourmantelle, Chief Operating Officer of Canopy Rivers. "Agripharm's outdoor production is ahead of the curve with support from Green House Brands, which provides decades of experience in choosing, and successfully growing, the best genetics for open-air crops." Charlotte's Web Holdings Inc. (CSE:CWEB) (OTCQX:CWBHF) just announced today that the Underwritersof its previously-announced underwritten public offering of 7,000,000 common shares of the Company sold by certain current shareholders at a price of C$20.00 per share have exercised in full their option to purchase an additional 1,050,000 common shares from the Selling Shareholders at the Offering Price. The gross proceeds to the Selling Shareholders under the exercise of this over-allotment will be C$21,000,000, and together with the gross proceeds from the initial closing on May 15, 2019 of C$140,000,000, the aggregate gross proceeds of the offering will be $161,000,000. 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. 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Media Contact email: [email protected] +1(561)325-8757 SOURCE Financialnewsmedia.com MIRAMAR, Fla. and TALLAHASSEE, Fla., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Vohra Wound Care was awarded a grant by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration to establish the Florida Wound Care Excellence Program for Skilled Nursing Facilities to improve the care of nursing home residents across the state. This program will train nurses about prevention, assessment and management of wounds in the nursing home setting. Key areas to be covered include wound healing, wound care treatment options, and infection prevention. "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to train nurses throughout the state and improve patient outcomes through this education. We developed this program because we have seen the need for wound care skills that nurses could use on a daily basis," said John Sory, President of Vohra. With over 26% of Florida's long term care facilities rated only one or two stars in quality for their care of pressure ulcers, the present need and potential impact of this educational program are significant and timely (floridahealthfinder.gov). The funding provides education support for 350 nurses in Florida to become certified in wound care through the Vohra Wound Care Nurse Certification program. Nurses who successfully complete this program will be awarded the credentials of VWCN, an industry-leading certification specific to wound care of the nursing home resident. The award is made possible through re-investment of civil money penalties that were issued to FL nursing homes, only four other active programs have received such an award by the Agency. Vohra Wound Physicians created the wound care nurse certification program based upon over 20 years of experience treating patients in long term care and post-acute facilities. The course content follows the evidence-based Vohra Wound Physicians wound care model which has been independently evaluated and proven to result in a 21-day decrease in wound healing time, an 88-percent decrease in wound-related hospitalizations and an 86-percent decrease in infection and amputation rates. This program offers 20 hours of continuing education credits in eleven topic areas in an interactive online format. To register for the free education and certification sponsored through this award go to https://vohrawoundcare.com/cmp/florida. About Florida Agency for Health Care Administration Our mission is "Better Health Care for All Floridians." As champions of that mission, we are responsible for the administration of the Florida Medicaid program, licensure and regulation of Florida's health facilities and for providing information to Floridians about the quality of care they receive. http://ahca.myflorida.com About Vohra Wound Physicians: Founded in South Florida in 2000, Vohra Wound Physicians has become the nation's largest physician group dedicated to providing expert wound care services to patients in post-acute clinical settings, including nursing homes, assisted living centers, and rehabilitation facilities. Vohra has partnered with over 230 facilities throughout the state of Florida. Our team of 250 physicians provides complete wound care management programs to over 2,700 facilities in 27 states. https://vohrawoundcare.com Media Contact: Japa Volchok, DO VP, Operations | 954.399.4621 | [email protected] Related Links Partner with Vohra Wound Physicians SOURCE Vohra Wound Physicians Related Links https://vohrawoundcare.com FELTON, California, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Flow Cytometry Market size was estimated at USD 3.27 billion in 2016 and is anticipated to grow at CAGR of 10.6% in coming years. Key drivers of this market include increasing incidence of chronic disorders that requires toxicity testing for cancer tests and need for quick, accurate and sensitive prognosis techniques for the validation of disease. Increasing awareness levels amongst healthcare experts and patients coupled with rising healthcare expenditures are major factors driving the growth. Furthermore, related benefits of cell-based assays including development in reagents and software employed for the study, ease-of-use and high sensitivity and reproductively are some other elements anticipated to boost the growth in coming years. Technology Insights Cell-based technology held the leading position in 2016. Rising demand for advance diagnosis and increasing awareness related to related advantages with cell-based analysis are the elements contributing to its leading position during the coming years. Cell-based flow cytometry involves substantial usage in variety of research fields. This analysis is applied in the discovery of drug for physiological importance of results. Furthermore, it is utilized in clinical studies involving endothelial cells in blood, hematopoietic progenitor cells, and tumor cells in peripheral blood and tumour stem cells. In addition, they are utilized in the study for target identification and disease mechanism. Get Sample PDF and read more details about the "Flow Cytometry Market" Report 2025. Product Insights In 2016, instrument segment was the market leader due to huge penetration combined with benefits such as user-friendliness, accurate result and cost-effective characteristic. Consumables and reagents, due to their high application in diagnosis of cancer are anticipated to account for high growth. Instruments having application in flow cytometry include sample preparation devices, cell analyzers and cell sorters involving platforms for cell analysis and replaceable components such as detectors, filters and lasers. The development of new innovative technologies including the multi-color flow cytometers combined with the ability to detect up to eighteen cell parameters concurrently is amongst the causes leading towards growth. Application Insights This technology is used in industrial sectors, research and clinical diagnosis. Research segment held leading position in 2016 due to increasing R&D for cancer and other infectious diseases diagnosis and treatment. Flow cytometry has applications even in some other industries including plant tissue culture and food microbiology. Clinical diagnosis is anticipated to be the fastest growing application segment by the year 2025. This growth is boosted by elements such as rising demand for cost-effective disease diagnostic tools and related advantages of these assays in disease detection. End-use Insights The commercial organization segment dominated the industry due to extensive applications in various verticals including plant cell culture, food microbiology and blood banks. The entry of reagents and multiplex probes for definite usage in diagnostics and discovery of drug is anticipated to benefit this vertical accompanied with development opportunities by offering the users in research and small- scale peripheral laboratories. Hospitals are anticipated to grow at remunerative CAGR owing to rising number of diagnostic tests required by increasing prevalence of infectious and chronic diseases, beneficial and supportive reimbursement policies and rising awareness among patients. Regional Insights North America held leading position in 2016 owing to the availability of solicitous government initiatives for the growth of enhanced technologies pertaining to molecular diagnostics. Furthermore, presence of skilled experts and larger awareness levels are the other factors expected to drive the growth in regional market. Asia Pacific is speculated to demonstrate lucrative growth over the forecast period due to rising solicitous government aid for the biotech industry growth. The economic development, increasing patient awareness level, persistently advancing healthcare infrastructure and presence of untapped opportunities are the factors contributing towards the fast growth in this region. Competitive Insights Some major players functioning in this industry include Agilent Technologies; Apogee Flow Systems Ltd.; Becton, Dickinson and Company; Beckman Coulter, Inc.; Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.; GE Healthcare; Luminex Corporation; Merck & Co., Inc., Miltenyi Biotec; Stratedigm, Inc.; Sysmex Corporation and Thermo Fisher Scientific. The market is fierce in nature as major players are involved in persistent product development and alliances to help market penetration. Rising number of outsourcing service providers are anticipated to boost industry rivalry in the coming years. Industry players are acquiring product penetration by establishing manufacturing plants in the untapped areas of developing countries. For instance, BD Life Sciences entered into collaboration with Seegene Inc. in September 2015, for the advancement of multiplex PCR reagents for BD max system in an inquest to attain more share. Browse 75 page research report with TOC on "Global Flow Cytometry Market" at: https://www.millioninsights.com/industry-reports/flow-cytometry-market Market Segment: Global Flow Cytometry Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2025) Cell-based Bead-based Global Flow Cytometry Product & Services Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2025) Instruments Reagent & consumables Software Accessories Services Global Flow Cytometry Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2025) Research Pharmaceutical Drug discovery Stem cells In vitro toxicity Apoptosis Cell sorting Cell cycle analysis Immunology Cell viability Industrial Clinical Cancer Organ transplantation Immunodeficiency Hematology Global Flow Cytometry End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2025) Commercial organizations Hospitals Academic institutes Clinical testing labs Flow Cytometry Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2025) North America U.S Canada Europe UK Germany Asia Pacific Japan China India Latin America Mexico Brazil MEA South Africa Browse reports of similar category available with Million Insights: About Million Insights: Million Insights, is a distributor of market research reports, published by premium publishers only. We have a comprehensive market place, that will enable you to compare data points, before you make a purchase. Enabling informed buying, is our motto and we strive hard to ensure that our clients get to browse through multiple samples, prior to an investment. Service flexibility & the fastest response time are two pillars, on which our business model is founded. Our market research report store, includes in-depth reports, from across various industry verticals, such as healthcare, technology, chemicals, food & beverages, consumer goods, material science & automotive. Contact: Ryan Manuel Research Support Specialist, USA Million Insights Phone: +1-408-610-2300 Toll Free: 1-866-831-4085 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.millioninsights.com/ Blog: https://millioninsights.blogspot.com/ SOURCE Million Insights MCLEAN, Va., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Attain, LLC, a leading management, technology, and strategy consulting firm, today announced that Cindy D'Annunzio has joined the company as a Managing Director. In her new role with Attain, D'Annunzio will lead the firm's Federal Health business and will be responsible for strategy, growth, and quality delivery of services to clients. Cindy DAnnunzio, Managing Director, Attain As a former Division Director for Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), D'Annunzio managed a billion dollar budget, which included complex and agile technology initiatives. She brings a unique knowledge of federal healthcare and its transformation. Since her departure from CMS, D'Annunzio has lead Federal Health business development and delivery teams for General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), Turning Point Global Solutions, and Companion Data Services, a subsidiary of Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina. "I am thrilled to join the innovative and customer-focused team at Attain," said D'Annunzio. "With a focus on digital transformation, I look forward to harnessing the power of technology to deliver secure and powerful solutions, including cloud computing, advanced analytics, and automation," she said. "Cindy is a seasoned leader known for delivering mission-critical services and solutions, and we are proud to welcome her to Attain," shared Attain President and COO, Manish Agarwal. "With a demonstrated history of leadership in the federal government, coupled with deep industry experience focused on healthcare and information technology, Cindy is well positioned to capitalize on Attain's momentum in the market, and to grow the practice to the next level with a focus on holistic and agile approaches to technology initiatives." About Attain Based in McLean, Va., Attain is a leading management, technology, and strategy consulting firm comprised of innovative problem solvers who disrupt the status quo to change the world and improve the lives of those they serve. Powered by extreme automation, Attain leverages a holistic, agile, secure, and customer-centered approach to digital transformation, advancing our clients' missions across the government, education, healthcare, and nonprofit landscapes. For more information, please visit attain.com. SOURCE Attain, LLC Related Links http://www.attain.com ANAHEIM, Calif., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Consolidated Analytics, the premier provider of mortgage services, today announced the appointment of Josh Fuchs as senior vice president (SVP), product development and sales for its residential valuations division. In this role, Fuchs will drive the vision, innovation, execution and adoption of new real estate valuation products and will strengthen and modernize existing platforms. Consolidated Analytics Hires Former Goldman Sachs Exec Fuchs joins Consolidated Analytics from Goldman Sachs, where he was vice president, head of residential valuation for its real estate management division. Fuchs has more than 15 years of leadership experience developing operational and technology infrastructure, policies, and capabilities that enhance valuation platform and service scalability, efficiency and quality. In earlier roles, Fuchs held leadership positions at JP Morgan Chase, ISGN and FNMA. "Josh's talent and experience is known in the mortgage industry and he is particularly known for successfully using technology and analytics to innovate solutions within constraints," said Chief Executive Officer Arvin Wijay. "As Consolidated Analytics continues to augment our solutions with real estate analytics, leverage automation and embrace emerging technologies, Josh's 'in-compliance' but 'outside-the-box' approach will be incredibly valuable." The addition of Fuchs to Consolidated Analytics valuation team is timely, and comes within days of the company's launch of its Consolidated Collateral Analysis (CCA) product, a solution that provides portfolio buyers and sellers with collateral risk insights that may influence transaction and loan decisions. Fuchs' experience extends beyond property valuation operations and includes significant experience with loan quality control process automation, including the development of underwriting guidelines to facilitate higher quality and more efficient trading platforms for originations, second liens, jumbo and other consumer loans. "Our valuation team is already excited about the new CCA product, and we believe that the addition of Josh with bolster that enthusiasm even more," said CA President, Brian Gehl. "Our team has great ideas for more efficient and modern valuation solutions that could transform the end-user experience, and Josh has the technical, industry, and product development acumen to help operationalize those ideas and leverage our growing arsenal of tools and technologies." About Consolidated Analytics, Inc. Founded in 1996, Consolidated Analytics, Inc. is a diversified provider of solutions to the mortgage services industry. Extending through all channels of origination, capital markets and servicing, Consolidated Analytics provides innovative, comprehensive and fairly-priced products and services in the areas of valuation, asset management, fulfillment, risk management, due diligence and advisory. www.consolidatedanalytics.com. Media contact: Robyn Mahoney [email protected] 720-503-5551 SOURCE Consolidated Analytics Related Links http://www.consolidatedanalytics.com CLEVELAND, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- On Thursday, May 24, 2019, we were informed that the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) had released a notice, withdrawing a 2016 notice of proposed rulemaking establishing a minimum train crew size for most rail freight operations in the United States. This news was not surprising. What is shocking, however, is the degree to which FRA has chosen to subordinate the safety of Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) and SMART Transportation Division (SMART TD) members, other railroad workers, and the American public to the interests of the nation's major railroads. FRA's reference to current crew sizes, which have existed for decades, as mere "crew redundancy" displays an astonishing ignorance of the findings of the agency's own research studies, which establishin detail and beyond disputethe unique and specific duties of each crewmember. FRA also disappointingly engages in self-serving fact selection in its attempts to negate the importance of the 2013 Lac-Megantic tragedy and the Casselton, North Dakota oil train derailmentand subsequent explosion and fireto the crew size debate. And it simply ignores several subsequent accidents where a two-person crew saved the public from an even more horrific outcome. In its rush to diminish the safety impact of common-sense crew size regulations, FRA also points to various regulations requiring risk analyses and the adoption of risk reduction plans by railroads. While our Organizations fully support such plans, we note that Congress mandated regulations governing these subjects more than a decade ago, but they have yet to be promulgated because of industry recalcitrance and obstructionism. Also, the argument that two-person crews have not been proven saferbecause of FRA's failure to collect crew size datawhile the data support a conclusion that single-person crews are not demonstrably less safe is mystifying in its logic, to be charitable. Moreover, the federal rail safety regulator hints that there is no "specific requirement that would prohibit autonomous technology from operating a locomotive or train" in the absence of any human crewmember whatsoever as a means of "reducing accidents caused by human error." If the ongoing grounding of the Boeing MAX aircraft has taught nothing else, FRA and the Department of Transportation should be mindful of the danger of transferring the risk of a human factors accident from operator to programmer when autonomous technology is implemented. For this reason, FRA's declared "support [for] the integration and implementation of new automation technologies" on the Nation's locomotives should give everyone pause. Lastly, the Agency's invocation of the negative preemption doctrine is incredible. Both the industry and the Agency reject prescriptive safety regulations as a philosophical matter, because they supposedly require a "one size fits all" approach; indeed, this was part of the industry's argument against the proposed rule. In stark contrast to this philosophy, FRA's invocation of negative preemption seeks to promulgate a prescriptive prohibition, regardless of the implications of its action on federalism. In so doing, the valid safety concerns expressed by supporters of the proposed rule such as National League of Citiesrepresenting more than 19,000 cities, villages, and townsand the Western Organization of Resource Councils are dismissed out of hand. We frankly did not expect this Administration to complete this rulemaking, but we did afford the new Federal Railroad Administrator a fair opportunity to demonstrate that safety was his primary objective. Given the scope of this withdrawal, the Administrator has clearly failed the test, because he has placed corporate profits above public safety. Railroad safety has taken a giant step backward today, but our Organizations do not intend to let this development go unchallenged. The SMART Transportation Division is comprised of approximately 125,000 active and retired members of the former United Transportation Union, who work in a variety of crafts in the transportation industry. The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen represents over 57,500 professional locomotive engineers and trainmen throughout the United States. The BLET is the founding member of the Rail Conference, International Brotherhood of Teamsters. CONTACT: John Bentley, 216-241-2630 SOURCE Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen; SMART Transportation Division FRANKFURT AM MAIN, Germany, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- FRA/rap Fraport AG's executive board chairman, Dr. Stefan Schulte, struck a positive note at the company's Annual General Meeting (AGM) today: "We can look back on a very successful 2018. Supported by strong growth in passenger traffic at Frankfurt Airport and our international locations, we achieved a new record high for revenue and earnings. At the same time, we are laying the foundation for further long-term growth with our extensive investments particularly in Frankfurt, Greece, Brazil and Peru." Group revenue increased by 18.5 percent to almost 3.5 billion. After adjusting for proceeds related to expansion investments for the international Group companies (based on IFRIC 12), revenue rose by 7.8 percent to more than 3.1 billion. Group EBITDA increased by 12.5 percent to over 1.1 billion. Consolidated earnings climbed by 40.6 percent to about 506 million. This includes the 75.9 million earnings component resulting from the sale of Fraport's stake in Flughafen Hannover-Langenhagen GmbH. Because of Fraport's strong operating and financial performance, the Supervisory Board and the Executive Board proposed a dividend of 2.00 per share for fiscal year 2018 to the Annual General Meeting. This represents an increase of 50 cents per share up by one-third compared to the previous year. International Business Makes Key Contribution to Earnings With a 36 percent share, the "International Activities & Services" business segment, for the first time, accounted for the largest share of EBITDA among the four business segments (adjusted for selling Fraport's stake in Flughafen Hannover-Langenhagen GmbH). Passenger traffic at most of the Group airports reached record levels. Schulte: "Our strategy of expanding Fraport's international business is bearing fruit. We will continue on this path. We are maximizing growth and earnings potential around the world, while giving our Group an even broader and stronger foundation for the future." Alone at Fraport's 14 Greek regional airports, five new passenger terminals are currently being built. At both airports in Brazil, expansion projects are scheduled to be completed by the end of this year. In Peru, construction of the second runway is set to begin during the second half of 2019, with work on the new terminal starting the next year. FRA: Important Milestone Reached with Terminal 3 Project Fraport's expansion program at its Frankfurt Airport home base is also progressing according to plan. Laying the cornerstone for the new Terminal 3 recently marked a key milestone for Fraport. This expansion is urgently needed: With some 69.5 million passengers recorded last year, Frankfurt Airport welcomed more passengers than ever before. The Pier G project at Terminal 3, which has been moved forward, will be the first noticeable step to improving capacity constraints in the terminals. Scheduled to be completed in 2021, Pier G will provide capacity for some four to five million passengers per year. From mid-July, the new extension to Area A of Terminal 1 will considerably improve congestion at the security controls, which are heavily utilized especially on peak traffic days. Fraport's extension building creates space for seven additional security lanes which feature enhanced layout for faster and more efficient screening procedures. Furthermore, the company is continuing to add staff. Some 2,300 new hires are planned for this year, on top of about 3,000 new staff already recruited in 2018. After a challenging 2018, which impacted the entire aviation industry, Frankfurt Airport successful met the first endurance test of 2019 during the Easter holiday rush. Schulte said: "Some of the measures that the various partners in aviation have implemented are already helping to improve punctuality and reliability. However, efficient reorganization of Europe's heavily utilized airspace is still required." Outlook for 2019 Confirmed Fraport is continuing to forecast sustained growth throughout its entire portfolio for the 2019 fiscal year. Passenger traffic at Frankfurt Airport is forecast to rise between about two percent and three percent noticeably more moderate than in the previous two years. Fraport expects a light increase in consolidated revenue to about 3.2 billion (adjusted for IFRIC 12). Group EBITDA is forecast to be in the approximate range of 1,160 million to 1,195 million, despite the revenue loss resulting from the sale of Fraport's stake in Flughafen Hannover-Langenhagen GmbH. The application of the IFRS 16 accounting standard which changes the accounting rules for leases will not only make a positive contribution to Group EBITDA, but will also lead to much higher depreciation and amortization in the 2019 fiscal year. As a result, Fraport expects Group EBIT to be in the range of about 685 million to around 725 million. The company also expects to post consolidated earnings between about 420 million to around 460 million. The dividend per share should remain stable at the higher level of 2 for the 2019 fiscal year. Print-quality photos of Fraport AG and Frankfurt Airport are available for free downloading via the photo library on the Fraport Web site. For TV news and information broadcasting purposes only, we also offer free footage material for downloading. If you wish to meet a member of our Media Relations team when at Frankfurt Airport, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our contact details are available here. For further information about Fraport AG please click here. Fraport AG Alexander Zell Corporate Communications Media Relations 60547 Frankfurt, Germany Telephone: +49-69-690-70555 E-mail: [email protected] Internet: www.fraport.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/FrankfurtAirport SOURCE Fraport AG Related Links fraport.com HOUSTON, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Freeport LNG today announced it has received approval from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for the export of Train 4 volumes to Non-Free Trade Agreement countries. Freeport LNG's fourth liquefaction train is part of the company's existing natural gas liquefaction and LNG export facility on Quintana Island near Freeport, Texas. The company recently received approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to site, construct and operate its fourth train. Freeport LNG's Train 4 is expected to add over 5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of LNG production to its existing project, increasing the total export capability of the 4-train facility to over 20 mtpa. Approximately 13.5 mtpa of this capacity has been contracted under 20-year tolling agreements to Osaka Gas Trading & Export, LLC, JERA Energy America, LLC, BP Energy Company, Toshiba America LNG Corporation, and SK E&S LNG, LLC, and approximately 0.5 mtpa has been contracted to Trafigura PTE LTD under a 3-year sale and purchase agreement commencing in 2020. "We appreciate the Department of Energy's swift approval, closely coupled with the recent FERC approval, which enables us to further advance our project development and marketing efforts for Train 4," said Michael Smith, Founder, Chairman and CEO, Freeport LNG. "Having DOE's approval marks another significant milestone for Freeport LNG, which brings us one step closer to our goal of moving ahead with Train 4 construction later this year." Train 4 operations are anticipated to commence in 2023. Freeport LNG's export facility currently consists of three liquefaction trains, with Train 1 scheduled for commercial startup in Q3 2019, and full three-train commercial operations anticipated by mid-2020. Under 3-train operations, Freeport LNG's facility will rank 7th in current global liquefaction production capacity, with the facility rising to become the world's 5th largest LNG producer once Train 4 is completed. About Freeport LNG Freeport LNG Development, L.P. was formed in 2002 to develop, own and operate an LNG terminal on Quintana Island, near Freeport, Texas. The terminal started LNG import operations in June 2008 and is scheduled to begin LNG export operations in 2019. Freeport LNG is implementing the largest fully electric motor drive natural gas liquefaction plant in the world, reducing emissions at the facility by over 90% relative to other plants which use combustion turbines. Freeport LNG's limited partnership interests are ultimately held by Michael Smith, Global Infrastructure Partners, and Osaka Gas Co., Ltd. For further information, visit www.freeportlng.com or contact: Heather Browne, Director, Corporate Communications: 713.980.2888. SOURCE Freeport LNG Related Links http://www.freeportlng.com LAKEWOOD, Ohio, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading cloud solutions provider Onix and experts from Google are coming to St. Louis June 13 to help business leaders and IT professionals learn about the benefits of cloud computing technology. Lakewood, Ohio-based Onix is hosting "Going Google in St. Louis" June 13 at the Anheuser-Busch Biergarten in St. Louis. 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 will get valuable face time with Google and Onix cloud experts in a relaxed, informal setting. Attendees will see firsthand the benefits of Google products such as G Suite, Google Cloud Platform, Google Cloud Search, Google Maps Platform and Chrome OS and Chromebooks. There also will be time for networking with reps from Google and Onix, and other 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 St. Louis When: Thursday, June 13, 3:30 - 6 p.m. Where: Anheuser-Busch Biergarten, 1127 Pestalozzi St, St. Louis, MO 63118 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 digital accessibility of websites and online documents through its Equidox brand, and cloud billing and budget management software through OnSpend. 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 DETROIT, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading lower-middle-market private equity firm Huron Capital today announced High Street Insurance Partners ("High Street"), its ExecFactor commercial and personal insurance platform, has acquired KorthaseFlinn Insurance & Financial Services ("KF" or "the Company"), an independent insurance and financial services firm. Based in Boyne City, Michigan, with additional offices in East Jordan, Gaylord and Petoskey, KF is one of northern Michigan's largest independent insurance and financial services firms. KF provides specialized business, employee benefits, financial and personal insurance solutions. The Company's employees currently serve over ten thousand clients throughout the Midwest. "KF's experienced employees and excellent client service have built the Company a strong reputation in the insurance industry," said Scott Wick, Managing Partner & Chief Executive Officer of High Street. "We are confident that KF's focus on providing tailored risk solutions to its clients and robust customer network will enhance our ability to service new and existing relationships at the highest level." Randy Flinn, President of KF, will continue to lead the Company while reporting to Randall Koch, Managing Partner and Chief Operating Officer of High Street. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. "We believe Huron Capital's history of growing companies through add-on acquisitions will add great benefit to our current clients and create additional relationship opportunities across Michigan," Flinn said. "We expect our partnership with High Street will help us elevate our customer services and grow our expertise, and we are incredibly excited about the opportunity this presents for our company, customers, employees and all of our stakeholders." This marks the fourth acquisition for High Street a provider of commercial insurance, personal lines and employee benefits services since its formation by Huron Capital in 2018. High Street, which is one of 15 Huron Capital ExecFactor initiatives, was designed to pursue a buy-and-build strategy through add-on acquisitions in the insurance agency market. ExecFactor combines a CEO's industry expertise with Huron Capital's extensive investment experience and committed capital. "We believe KF's diverse client base and trusted financial services are a great addition to High Street as we continue to deepen our presence across Michigan," said Matt Hare, Partner at Huron Capital. "We are excited to welcome the KF team to the High Street family and look forward to pursuing additional expansion opportunities in the insurance agency market." About Huron Capital Based in Detroit, Huron Capital is an operationally-focused private equity firm with a long history of growing lower middle-market companies through our proprietary ExecFactor buy-and-build investment model. We prefer complex situations where we can help companies reach their full potential by combining our operational approach, substantial capital base, and transaction experience with seasoned operating executives. Celebrating its twentieth anniversary in 2019, Huron Capital has raised over $1.8 billion in capital through six committed private equity funds and invested in over 170 companies, and our portfolio companies have employed over 11,000 people throughout North America. The Huron Capital buy-and-build investment model includes equity recapitalizations, family succession transactions, market-entry strategies, corporate carve-outs, and management buyouts of companies having revenues up to $200 million. Huron Capital targets both control and non-control equity stakes in fundamentally-sound companies that can benefit from the firm's operational approach to creating value. Huron Capital's sector focus includes business services, consumer products & services and specialty industrials. For more information, please visit: www.huroncapital.com. About High Street Insurance Partners Headquartered in Traverse City, Michigan, High Street Insurance Partners provides commercial property & casualty insurance, employee benefits services and personal lines to a wide range of industries. High Street Insurance Partners distinguishes itself through the specialization of its practice groups, leveraging the collective expertise of its partners to provide tailored solutions to its clients. Aligning industry expertise with insurance products and services expertise, it significantly enhances the customer experience and provides agency partners the opportunity to grow and expand with their customer base. For more information, please visit: www.highstreetpartners.com. About KorthaseFlinn Insurance Founded in 1926, KorthaseFlinn Insurance & Financial Services is one of Northern Michigan's largest independent insurance and financial services firms. The Company's team of professionals from various backgrounds, bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to solve client's risk management problems and to help them protect and accumulate assets. Today it operates four offices and services over ten thousand clients throughout the Midwest. For more information, please visit: www.korthaseflinn.com. Contact: Brent Snavely, Director Lambert & Co. (313) 309-9516 [email protected] SOURCE Huron Capital Related Links http://www.huroncapital.com "GrandView Aviation has an industry leading business model that puts our clients and our employees first," said Naor. "We're breaking some antiquated ways of doing business in the charter industry and I'm thrilled to lead the charge on our future expansion plans." Naor received her Master's in Business Administration from Johns Hopkins University with concentrations in Management & Finance; she completed her undergraduate degree in Aviaiton Business Administration at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Additionally, she holds an Associate's degree in Air Traffic Control and comes from a family of aviators. GrandView Aviation GrandView Aviation operates a fleet of Phenom 300 charter jets in Maryland & Texas as well as a helicopter fleet in Baltimore, MD. The company has offices at Martin State Airport and Austin-Bergstom International Airport. GrandView Aviation is a FAA Part 135 certificated aircraft operator & carries the elite Wyvern Wingman safety rating. For more information about GrandView Aviation, please visit www.flygv.com. SOURCE GrandView Aviation Related Links https://flygv.com SAN DIEGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholder rights law firm Johnson Fistel, LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has commenced on behalf of shareholders of Jumia Technologies AG ("Jumia") (NYSE: JMIA). If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff in this class action, you must move the Court no later than July 15, 2019. [click here to join this action] On May 28, 2019, Andrew Left, managing editor of Citron Research ("Citron") published a report entitled "Jumia Indisputable Evidence of Fraud " wherein Left detailed a series of alarming s fraudulent business activities. Specifically, Citron stated that "Former executives from Jumia have volunteered to provide indisputable evidence that Jumia is a complete fraud." This report was preceded by a report on May 9, 2019, when Citron Research issued a release announcing "Jumia is a Fraud" that "deserves immediate SEC attention." The report alleged that Jumia misrepresented its active consumer and active merchant figures, among other things. Following the May 9, 2019, report a class action was filed for purchasers of Jumia between April 12, 2019 and May 9, 2019. The lawsuit alleges defendants made false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information to investors, specifically that: (1) Jumia materially overstated its active customers and active merchants; (2) Jumia's representations about its orders, order cancellations, undelivered orders and returned orders lacked a sufficient factual basis and materially overstated the Company's sales; (3) Jumia failed to sufficiently disclose related party transactions; and (4) Jumia's financial statements were presented in violation of applicable accounting standards. If you purchased Jumia between April 12, 2019 and May 9, 2019, inclusive, or if you have questions about this notice or your legal rights, please contact Jim Baker ([email protected]) by email or phone 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 http://www.johnsonfistel.com . Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Contact: Johnson Fistel, LLP Jim Baker, 619-814-4471 [email protected] SOURCE Johnson Fistel, LLP Related Links http://www.johnsonfistel.com CARMEL, Ind., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- KAR Auction Services Inc., announces its participation in the Mobility Open Blockchain Initiative (MOBI) Electric Vehicle Grid Integration (EVGI) working group alongside representatives from Accenture, GM and Honda. MOBI is a member-driven consortium of smart mobility industry leaders exploring blockchain technology for use in the digital mobility ecosystem. Its EVGI working group will research the potential value of using blockchain technology and the logistics necessary to pilot peer-to-peer energy smart contracts, tokenized carbon credits, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) energy storage and ancillary services. "As a leader in the automotive industry, we are always looking for ways to collaborate and innovate," said Peter Kelly, KAR president. "Working with other automotive and technology industry leaders as active members of MOBI, we are pioneers in the mobility and blockchain technology space with a vested interest in the success, integrity and security of blockchain enabled solutions. Together we can build a more transparent and trustworthy ecosystem for our customers and the industry." MOBI's EVGI working group will explore smart contracts to help create a more transparent, conflict-free way to exchange money and property, research the use of blockchain digitized ledgers to track and manage carbon credits that off-set charging station setup costs, and examine V2G energy storage solutions. KAR is the first and only auto remarketer to join MOBI and collaborate with international automotive OEMs, new mobility technology companies, government agencies, and leading consulting and financial services firms to put forward interoperable solutions. For more than a year, representatives from KAR's legal, operations, marketing and strategy business areas have worked to develop blockchain technology use cases for the automotive industry. Through MOBI's open-source approach to blockchain software tools and standards, KAR continues to collaborate on the development of standardized blockchain-enabled vehicle data and mobility services applications. Blockchain technology operates by cryptographically distributing information to a network of independent computers, ensuring that transactions are secure and that data privacy, ownership rights, and integrity are protected. Working in a consortium allows MOBI and its partners to reduce fraud risks and lower mobility transaction costs. KAR Contacts Media Inquiries: Analyst Inquiries: Gene Rodriguez Miller Mike Eliason (317) 343-5243 (317) 249-4559 [email protected] [email protected] About KAR Auction Services KAR Auction Services (NYSE: KAR) provides sellers and buyers across the global wholesale used vehicle industry with innovative, technology-driven remarketing solutions. KAR's unique end-to-end platform supports whole car, salvage, financing, logistics and other ancillary and related services, including the sale of approximately six million units valued at over $40 billion through our auctions. Our integrated physical, online and mobile marketplaces reduce risk, improve transparency and streamline transactions for customers in more than 130 countries. Headquartered in Carmel, Ind., KAR has 18,000 employees across the United States, Canada, Mexico and Europe. For more information go to www.karauctionservices.com . For the latest KAR news follow us on Twitter @KARspeaks . SOURCE KAR Auction Services, Inc. Related Links http://karauctionservices.com/ CHINO, Calif., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Karat by Lollicup announces it is experiencing continued growth in sales, customers, employees, and products, as it has for the past five years. The company has been on the Inc. 5000 list for the fastest growing companies in America for six consecutive years. Karat by Lollicup's growth demonstrates its strength in an everchanging industry. The company prioritizes managing inventory levels efficiently and providing excellent customer service. The company's flexibility is matched by its focus to put clients first and deliver products they need. Karat by Lollicup makes sure to stay on trend with the foodservice industry. Over the past eight years, the company has expanded its product line that ranges from eco-friendly products to custom print jobs. Karat by Lollicup makes sure its customers are taken care of. About Karat by Lollicup Karat by Lollicup is a manufacturer and supplier of premium beverage and disposable foodservice products. The company's brands include Karat, Karat Earth, Tea Zoneand Total Clean. The been in business for almost 20 years and employs 400 at multiple locations throughout the United States. For more information, please visit www.Karatpackaging.com or email [email protected]. SOURCE Lollicup USA Inc. Related Links http://www.karatpackaging.com CALGARY, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Representatives of Kinder Morgan, Inc. (KMI), which owns a controlling interest in Kinder Morgan Canada Limited (KML), intend to participate in investor meetings at the Alliance Bernstein Annual Strategic Decisions Conference on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in New York City to discuss the business and affairs of KMI, which may include discussion of KML's business. Interested parties will be able to view the materials to be presented on the day of the event by visiting KML's website at https://ir.kindermorgancanadalimited.com/presentations-and-webcasts or KMI's website at https://ir.kindermorgan.com/presentations-webcasts. The live presentation for the conference will also be accessible by audio webcast (both live and on-demand) on KMI's website at the same web address. The live presentation is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. EST, and an archived webcast will remain available for 90 days on KMI's website at the above address. About Kinder Morgan Canada Kinder Morgan Canada Limited (KML) focuses on stable, fee-based energy transportation and storage assets that are central to the energy infrastructure of Western Canada. We strive to promote shareholder value by increasing utilization of our existing assets while controlling costs and operating in a safe and environmentally responsible way. For more information, visit kindermorgancanadalimited.com. SOURCE Kinder Morgan Canada Limited Related Links https://www.kindermorgancanadalimited.com CHESEAUX-SUR-LAUSANNE, Switzerland and PHOENIX, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Kudelski Security, the cybersecurity division within the Kudelski Group (SIX:KUD.S), today announced the expansion of their Managed Security Services (MSS) to include inspection of cloud-based traffic and data. The expanded capability relies on an advanced analytics engine developed by Kudelski Security engineers to provide security teams a unified security view of their data across today's hybrid business environments. Currently available for Amazon Web Services (AWS), support for Azure and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) will be available by mid-year. According to Gartner, 75 percent of businesses will use a multi-cloud or hybrid cloud model for their businesses by 2020. While migrating to the cloud can save time and money in the short term, cloud adoption presents unique challenges when it comes to long-term data visibility and security, particularly in hybrid environments. Businesses need a way of monitoring, detecting and responding to threats regardless of where their data is stored. "Our ability to integrate cloud platforms such as AWS into our threat monitoring with hunting service provides clients greater visibility into data sources that are increasingly located across hybrid environments, which include cloud service platforms, remote data centers, and distributed locations," said Rich Fennessy, CEO of Kudelski Security. "This addition to our MSS complements our expanding portfolio of cloud offerings which includes strategy, architecture design and build, as well as security assessments, procurement, management and cost optimization." The services to integrate cloud platforms with traditional on-premise IT, operational technologies (OT), and IoT environments are delivered through Kudelski Security's Cyber Fusion Centers (CFC). The CFCs, next-generation Security Operations Centers (SOC), leverage iterative intelligence along with advanced threat hunting capabilities to quickly identify malicious activity and accelerate incident response. The CFC combines cutting-edge technology with human analysts to reduce the number of alerts SOCs receive and only escalate verified incidents. "The expanded monitoring capacity is a response to the growing adoption of hybrid delivery environments and the absolute need by enterprise clients to have a holistic view of their data and systems to rapidly identify and mitigate threats," said Alton Kizziah, global leader for managed security services at Kudelski Security. "Our approach embraces all sources of data and enables a powerful combination of advanced machine-based analysis with targeted human-led threat monitoring and hunting to deliver broader visibility and inspection of activity within a client environment regardless of where it is located." Kudelski Security's MSS offerings have rapidly gained industry recognition and attention, being listed as a notable vendor in Gartner's 2019 Magic Quadrant for Managed Security Services worldwide (Europe Context) and earning leader status in Forrester's most recent Wave report covering Emerging Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs). Other recognitions include Gartner's MDR report, Frost & Sullivan, 451 Research, CRN and MSSPAlert, which recently ranked Kudelski Security as #16 on their list of top 100 global MSSPs. Kudelski Security operates Cyber Fusion Centers in Cheseaux, Switzerland and Phoenix, Arizona. To learn more about Kudelski Security's managed security services, visit www.kudelskisecurity.com/services/managed-security. For more information about our comprehensive cloud services, visit https://www.kudelskisecurity.com/solutions/cloud-security. About Kudelski Security Kudelski Security is the premier advisor and cybersecurity innovator for today's most security-conscious organizations. Our long-term approach to client partnerships enables us to continuously evaluate their security posture to recommend solutions that reduce business risk, maintain compliance and increase overall security effectiveness. With clients that include Fortune 500 enterprises and government organizations in Europe and across the United States, we address the most complex environments through an unparalleled set of solution capabilities including consulting, technology, managed security services and custom innovation. For more information, visit www.kudelskisecurity.com. Media Contact: John Van Blaricum Vice President, Global Marketing +1 650 966 4320 [email protected] SOURCE Kudelski Security Related Links https://www.kudelskisecurity.com BOSTON, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Nutter Investment Advisors announced today the appointment of Richard A. Sipley as President of Nutter Investment Advisors (NIA). Mr. Sipley brings more than two decades of investment experience directed towards advising high-net-worth families and foundations. He joins NIA in advance of the June 2019 stepping down of E. Barnes M. Abbott, who has served as CEO of NIA for over 30 years. Mr. Abbott will continue as a senior consultant to Nutter Investment Advisors after June 30, 2019. "We are delighted to welcome Rich Sipley to the Nutter Investment Advisors team," said Deborah J. Manus, Managing Partner, Nutter. "Rich's investment management experience, focus on client service and business acumen make him the right leader to continue NIA's longstanding tradition of excellence overseen by Barnes Abbott. During this time of transition, our clients will have the benefit of working with both Rich and Barnes. We thank Barnes for the leadership and advice he has shared over the years with Nutter lawyers, NIA, and firm clients. We look forward to a seamless transition for our clients." Prior to joining Nutter Investment Advisors, Mr. Sipley was Chief Investment Officer at Wellesley Investment Partners, where he advised high-net-worth families and foundations. Prior to that, Mr. Sipley was a Senior Vice President and Portfolio Manager at Boston Private Bank, where he oversaw the Dividend Growth Equity team and served as a member of the Asset Allocation Committee. Mr. Sipley earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Miami University and a Master of Business Administration from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst, a Certified Financial Planner, and a member of the Boston Security Analysts Society. About Nutter Investment Advisors With over $1.4 billion in funds under management, the guidance and expertise of Nutter Investment Advisors helps more and more people reach their critical financial aspirations. Each and every client benefits from a highly-personalized approach, both in selecting appropriate investments and in providing special attention to every detail. Through our in-depth understanding of every financial situation, we remain committed to tailoring an investment strategy that meets specific goals for financial security, family, philanthropy or other interests. Nutter is a subsidiary of Nutter McClennen & Fish LLP. SOURCE Nutter Investment Advisors BEIJING, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Leju Holdings Limited ("Leju" or the "Company") (NYSE: LEJU), a leading online-to-offline ("O2O") real estate services provider in China, today announced its unaudited financial results for the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2019. First Quarter 2019 Financial Highlights Total revenues increased by 35% year-on-year to $110.4 million . - Revenues from e-commerce services increased by 44% year-on-year to $76.8 million . - Revenues from online advertising services increased by 22% year-on-year to $33.2 million . . - Revenues from e-commerce services increased by 44% year-on-year to . - Revenues from online advertising services increased by 22% year-on-year to . Loss from operations was $19.1 million , a decrease of 39% from $31.5 million for the same quarter of 2018. , a decrease of 39% from for the same quarter of 2018. Non-GAAP [1] loss from operations was $15.3 million , a decrease of 43% from $27.1 million for the same quarter of 2018. loss from operations was , a decrease of 43% from for the same quarter of 2018. Net loss attributable to Leju Holdings Limited shareholders was $13.5 million , or $0.10 loss per diluted American depositary share ("ADS"), a decrease of 35% from $20.9 million , or $0.15 loss per diluted ADS, for the same quarter of 2018. , or loss per diluted American depositary share ("ADS"), a decrease of 35% from , or loss per diluted ADS, for the same quarter of 2018. Non-GAAP net loss attributable to Leju Holdings Limited shareholders was $10.6 million , or $0.08 loss per diluted ADS, a decrease of 39% from $17.3 million , or $0.13 loss per diluted ADS, for the same quarter of 2018. [1] Leju uses in this press release the following non-GAAP financial measures: (1) income (loss) from operations, (2) net income (loss), (3) net income (loss) attributable to Leju shareholders, (4) net income (loss) attributable to Leju shareholders per basic ADS, and (5) net income (loss) attributable to Leju shareholders per diluted ADS, each of which excludes share-based compensation expense, amortization of intangible assets resulting from business acquisitions, and income tax impact on the share-based compensation expense and amortization of intangible assets resulting from business combinations. See "About Non-GAAP Financial Measures" and "Unaudited Reconciliation of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results" below for more information about the non-GAAP financial measures included in this press release. "We're pleased to announce that Leju delivered strong top line growth in our online advertising and e-commerce businesses in the first quarter," said Mr. Geoffrey He, Leju's Chief Executive Officer. "The substantial market recovery we have seen so far in 2019 has driven increased developer demand for marketing services. We further solidified our leading position in e-commerce business by increasing the number of our projects significantly in the first quarter, which is a result of our top-down approach strategy and quick response to market changes. Our 'New Media' strategy further enhanced Leju's media influence and laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth in our online advertising business. In addition, we continued to improve operational efficiency and streamline our cost structure following our return to profitability last year. Going forward, we will continue to focus on market expansion, product innovation, and organizational optimization, as we strive to improve profitability." First Quarter 2019 Results Total revenues were $110.4 million, an increase of 35% from $81.5 million for the same quarter of 2018, mainly due to an increase in revenues from e-commerce services and online advertising services. Revenues from e-commerce services were $76.8 million, an increase of 44% from $53.5 million for the same quarter of 2018, primarily due to an increase in both the number of discount coupons redeemed and in the average price per discount coupon. Revenues from online advertising services were $33.2 million, an increase of 22% from $27.1 million for the same quarter of 2018, primarily due to an increase in property developers' demand for online advertising. Revenues from listing services were $0.4 million, a decrease of 56% from $0.9 million for the same quarter of 2018, primarily due to a decrease in secondary real estate brokers' demand. Cost of revenues was $23.5 million, an increase of 26% from $18.7 million for the same quarter of 2018, primarily due to increased cost of advertising resources purchased from media platforms. Selling, general and administrative expenses were $106.0 million, an increase of 11% from $95.2 million for the same quarter of 2018, primarily due to increased marketing expenses related to the Company's e-commerce business. Loss from operations was $19.1 million, a decrease of 39% from $31.5 million for the same quarter of 2018. Non-GAAP loss from operations was $15.3 million, a decrease of 43% from $27.1 million for the same quarter of 2018. Net loss was $13.6 million, a decrease of 36% from $21.3 million for the same quarter of 2018. Non-GAAP net loss was $10.6 million, a decrease of 40% from $17.7 million for the same quarter of 2018. Net loss attributable to Leju Holdings Limited shareholders was $13.5 million, or $0.10 loss per diluted ADS, a decrease of 35% from $20.9 million, or $0.15 loss per diluted ADS, for the same quarter of 2018. Non-GAAP net loss attributable to Leju Holdings Limited shareholders was $10.6 million, or $0.08 loss per diluted ADS, a decrease of 39% from $17.3 million, or $0.13 loss per diluted ADS, for the same quarter of 2018. Cash Flow As of March 31, 2019, the Company's cash and cash equivalents balance was $137.9 million. First quarter 2019 net cash used in operating activities was $11.7 million, primarily comprised of non-GAAP net loss of $10.6 million and an increase in accounts receivable and contract assets of $10.3 million, partially offset by an increase in amounts due to related parties of $5.2 million, an increase in advance from customer of $2.5 million and a decrease in customer deposits of $1.4 million. Business Outlook The Company estimates that its total revenues for the second quarter of 2019 will be approximately $150 million to $160 million, which would represent an increase of approximately 22% to 30% from $122.7 million in the same quarter in 2018. This forecast reflects the Company's current and preliminary view, which is subject to change. Conference Call Information Leju's management will host an earnings conference call on May 28, 2019 at 7 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time (7 p.m. Beijing/Hong Kong time). Dial-in details for the earnings conference call are as follows: U.S./International: +1-845-675-0437 Hong Kong: +852-3018-6771 Mainland China: 400-620-8038 Please dial in 10 minutes before the call is scheduled to begin and provide the passcode to join the call. The passcode is "Leju earnings call". A replay of the conference call may be accessed by phone at the following number until June 5, 2019: U.S./International: +1-855-452-5696 Hong Kong: 800-963-117 Mainland China: 400-632-2162 Passcode: 5549295 Additionally, a live and archived webcast will be available at http://ir.leju.com. About Leju Leju Holdings Limited ("Leju") (NYSE: LEJU) is a leading online-to-offline, or O2O, real estate services provider in China, offering real estate e-commerce, online advertising and online listing services. Leju's integrated online platform comprises various mobile applications along with local websites covering more than 370 cities, enhanced by complementary offline services to facilitate residential property transactions. In addition to the Company's own websites, Leju operates the real estate and home furnishing websites of SINA Corporation, and maintains a strategic partnership with Tencent Holdings Limited. For more information about Leju, please visit http://ir.leju.com. Safe Harbor: Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "target," "going forward," "outlook" and similar statements. Leju may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports filed or furnished with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, 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 Leju's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements that involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained, either expressly or impliedly, in any of the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, fluctuations in China's real estate market; the highly regulated nature of, and government measures affecting, the real estate and internet industries in China; Leju's ability to compete successfully against current and future competitors; its ability to continue to develop and expand its content, service offerings and features, and to develop or incorporate the technologies that support them; its limited operating history and lack of experience as a stand-alone public company, given its carve-out from E-House and prior reliance on E-House for various corporate services; its reliance on SINA and others with which it has developed, or may develop in the future, strategic partnerships; substantial revenue contribution from a limited number of real estate markets; complexities resulting from its ongoing relationships with E-House, due to E-House's status as a principal shareholder of Leju; and relevant government policies and regulations relating to the corporate structure, business and industry of Leju. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release is current as of the date of the press release, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable law. About Non-GAAP Financial Measures To supplement Leju's consolidated financial results presented in accordance with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP"), Leju uses in this press release the following non-GAAP financial measures: (1) income (loss) from operations, (2) net income (loss), (3) net income (loss) attributable to Leju shareholders, (4) net income (loss) attributable to Leju shareholders per basic ADS, and (5) net income (loss) attributable to Leju shareholders per diluted ADS, each of which excludes share-based compensation expense, amortization of intangible assets resulting from business acquisitions, and income tax impact on the share-based compensation expense and amortization of intangible assets resulting from business combinations. The presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. For more information on these non-GAAP financial measures, please see the table captioned "Unaudited Reconciliation of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results" set forth at the end of this press release. Leju believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide meaningful supplemental information to investors regarding its operating performance by excluding share-based compensation expense and amortization of intangible assets resulting from business acquisitions, which may not be indicative of Leju's operating performance. These non-GAAP financial measures also facilitate management's internal comparisons to Leju's historical performance and assist its financial and operational decision making. A limitation of using these non-GAAP financial measures is that share-based compensation expense and amortization of intangible assets resulting from business acquisitions may continue to exist in Leju's business for the foreseeable future. Management compensates for these limitations by providing specific information regarding the GAAP amounts excluded from each non-GAAP measure. The accompanying tables provide more details on the reconciliation between non-GAAP financial measures and their most comparable GAAP financial measures. For investor and media inquiries please contact: Ms. Christina Wu Leju Holdings Limited Phone: +86 (10) 5895-1062 E-mail: [email protected] Philip Lisio Foote Group Phone: +86 135-0116-6560 E-mail: [email protected] LEJU HOLDINGS LIMITED UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands of U.S. dollars) December 31, March 31, 2018 2019 ASSETS Current assets Cash and cash equivalents 147,263 137,899 Accounts receivable, net 102,697 111,654 Contract assets 2,137 733 Marketable securities 2,467 3,213 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 8,621 8,654 Customer deposits 10,672 9,262 Amounts due from related parties 6,695 5,257 Total current assets 280,552 276,672 Property and equipment, net 14,058 15,528 Intangible assets, net 57,401 54,221 Right-of-use assets[2] 35,894 Investment in affiliates 63 52 Deferred tax assets 62,356 63,557 Other non-current assets 2,297 1,246 Total assets 416,727 447,170 LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Current liabilities Accounts payable 803 2,138 Accrued payroll and welfare expenses 30,628 28,718 Income tax payable 58,030 54,656 Other tax payable 12,675 13,734 Amounts due to related parties 3,477 8,726 Advances from customers 26,873 29,386 Lease liabilities, current[2] 7,924 Accrued marketing and advertising expenses 14,896 14,053 Other current liabilities 12,999 12,897 Total current liabilities 160,381 172,232 Lease liabilities, non-current[2] 27,950 Deferred tax liabilities 14,780 15,065 Total liabilities 175,161 215,247 Shareholders' Equity Ordinary shares ($0.001 par value): 1,000,000,000 shares authorized, 135,763,962 and 135,763,962 shares issued and outstanding, as of December 31, 2018 and March 31,2019, respectively 136 136 Additional paid-in capital 792,626 793,202 Accumulated deficit (528,825) (542,316) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (19,848) (16,481) Total Leju Holdings Limited shareholders' equity 244,089 234,541 Non-controlling interests (2,523) (2,618) Total equity 241,566 231,923 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 416,727 447,170 ________________________________ [2] In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), which requires lessees to recognize a right-of-use asset and lease liability on their balance sheet for all leases with a term of more than 12 months. The Group adopted this ASU on January 1, 2019 using the modified retrospective approach and the financial statements for the comparative period has not been restated. LEJU HOLDINGS LIMITED UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share data and per share data) Three months ended March 31, 2018 2019 Revenues E-commerce 53,470 76,849 Online advertising 27,130 33,179 Listing 923 405 Total revenues 81,523 110,433 Cost of revenues (18,675) (23,538) Selling, general and administrative expenses (95,178) (105,977) Other operating income 830 22 Loss from operations (31,500) (19,060) Interest income 287 383 Other income, net 2,837 597 Loss before taxes and loss from equity in affiliates (28,376) (18,080) Income tax benefit 7,117 4,539 Loss before loss from equity in affiliates (21,259) (13,541) Loss from equity in affiliates (19) (12) Net Loss (21,278) (13,553) Less: net loss attributable to non-controlling interests (416) (62) Loss attributable to Leju Holdings Limited shareholders (20,862) (13,491) Loss per share: Basic/Diluted (0.15) (0.10) Shares used in computation of loss per share: Basic/Diluted 135,763,962 135,763,962 The conversion of Renminbi ("RMB") amounts into reporting currency USD amounts is based on the rate of USD1 = RMB6.7335 on March 31, 2019 and USD1 = RMB6.7977 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 LEJU HOLDINGS LIMITED UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (In thousands of U.S. dollars) Three months ended March 31, 2018 2019 Net loss (21,278) (13,553) Other comprehensive income, net of tax of nil Foreign currency translation adjustment 2,209 3,334 Comprehensive loss (19,069) (10,219) Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to non-controlling interest (518) (95) Comprehensive loss attributable to Leju Holdings Limited (18,551) (10,124) shareholders LEJU HOLDINGS LIMITED Unaudited Reconciliation of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results (In thousands of U.S. dollars, except share data and per ADS data) Three months ended March 31, 2018 2019 GAAP loss from operations (31,500) (19,060) Share-based compensation expense 979 575 Amortization of intangible assets resulting from business acquisitions 3,450 3,153 Non-GAAP loss from operations (27,071) (15,332) GAAP net loss (21,278) (13,553) Share-based compensation expense 979 575 Amortization of intangible assets resulting from business acquisitions 3,450 3,153 Income tax benefit: Current Deferred[3] (817) (788) Non-GAAP net loss (17,666) (10,613) Net loss attributable to Leju Holdings Limited shareholders (20,862) (13,491) Share-based compensation expense (net of non-controlling interests) 971 575 Amortization of intangible assets resulting from business acquisitions (net of non-controlling interests) 3,450 3,153 Income tax benefit: Current Deferred (817) (788) Non-GAAP net loss attributable to Leju Holdings Limited shareholders (17,258) (10,551) GAAP net loss per ADS basic/diluted (0.15) (0.10) Non-GAAP net loss per ADS basic/diluted (0.13) (0.08) Shares used in calculating basic/diluted GAAP/non-GAAP net loss attributable to Leju Holdings Limited shareholders per ADS 135,763,962 135,763,962 ________________________________ [3] Amount represents the realization of deferred tax liabilities recognized for the temporary difference between the tax basis of intangible assets recognized from acquisitions and their reported amounts in the financial statements. The income tax impact on the share-based compensation expense is nil. LEJU HOLDINGS LIMITED SELECTED OPERATING DATA Three months ended March 31, 2018 2019 Operating data for e-commerce services Number of discount coupons issued to prospective purchasers (number of transactions) 19,678 29,549 Number of discount coupons redeemed (number of transactions) 13,799 19,559 SOURCE Leju Holdings Limited Related Links http://ir.leju.com Roubal has 20 years of experience as a practicing attorney. As a Partner at Baird Lightner and Millsap, PC, Brett evolved his practice into a thriving transactional consulting business, where he represented numerous local, regional and national clients on various business and real estate issues, including years of corporate representation of Little Sunshine's Playhouse. "Brett is a pivotal addition to our executive leadership team as we continue to grow at a tremendous pace," said Rochette Dahler, Founder and CEO. "Brett's dedication to personal success and the success of others, and his strategic approach to our long-term growth goals are what will make him a great, and highly respected president." "For years I have watched and admired as LSP has experienced its phenomenal growth and success across the nation," said Brett Roubal. "I am beyond excited to be a part of the success the success of happy children, happy parents and the dedicated and caring LSP employees who make our families a priority every single day. The idea of bringing this type of care to more children and parents is something I truly look forward to and can't wait to start." "From all of us at Baird Lightner Millsap, PC, we would like to congratulate Brett on this fantastic opportunity to help lead a great organization like LSP," said Ron Baird, president of BLM, PC. "While we will certainly miss having Brett at the office, we will continue providing that same high level of service that we've been providing this community for over 35 years." Roubal obtained his B.S. in Mathematics from Creighton University in 1996. In 1999 he earned his Juris Doctor degree, also from Creighton University. Brett has been actively involved in various activities over his professional years, including 7 years on the Missouri Bar Board of Governors and the same amount of time on the board of the Springfield Workshop (now SWI Industrial Solutions), where he served as Board Chairman for 2 years. He has been honored as one of the Best Lawyers in America since 2012, a Missouri Super Lawyer since 2012 and is AV Preeminent Rated by Martindale-Hubbell. About Little Sunshine's Playhouse and Preschool Little Sunshine's Playhouse has 22 preschools nationwide, providing an elite standard for educational child care. They are dedicated to providing a safe, secure and nurturing environment to each of our students allowing them to grow socially and emotionally at their own pace. For more information about LSP visit https://www.littlesunshine.com. SOURCE Little Sunshines Playhouse and Preschool Related Links http://www.littlesunshine.com LiveU is democratizing live video by providing high quality live video solutions for TV, mobile, online and social media with its innovative portable devices and cloud services. With over 3,000 customers in 130+ countries, LiveU's technology is the solution of choice for leading broadcasters, sport organizations, news agencies, online and social media. Samuel Wasserman, CEO and Co-Founder of LiveU, said, "We are delighted to have Francisco Partners, a firm with an established track record, as our new majority owner. This will allow us to focus on our long-term strategy and growth objectives, benefiting our customers, partners and employees. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our previous shareholders Canaan Partners, Viola Ventures, Pitango Venture Capital, and Lightspeed Venture Partners for their valued support along the way, and contribution to our success." "We have made tremendous progress in delivering on our promise to establish LiveU as the clear market leader in providing live video streaming solutions for TV, digital and social media," added Wasserman. "This could not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our amazing employees developing and driving superior technology solutions that contribute to LiveU's current market position." "We are extremely excited to be partnering with LiveU as the company enters the next chapter of its growth story," said Eran Gorev, Senior Operating Partner at Francisco Partners. "LiveU is already recognized as the industry leader, and we look forward to partnering with IGP Capital and LiveU's management team to further enhance the company's solutions, grow the customer base and advance its strategic goals." Mario Razzini, Principal at Francisco Partners, added, "The broadcast and media industries are in a period of rapid change and LiveU is distinctively positioned to help customers capitalize on this opportunity with its strong market position and unmatched product innovation and performance." IGP Capital General Partner Assaf Harel, added, "We are thrilled to join Francisco Partners in backing the company and its talented team of professionals. LiveU is uniquely positioned in the global broadcast and media markets and we're excited to support the company with new investment initiatives and future growth prospects." Goldman Sachs acted as exclusive financial advisor to Francisco Partners. About Francisco Partners Francisco Partners is a leading global private equity firm that specializes in investments in technology and technology-enabled businesses. Since its launch over 19 years ago, Francisco Partners has raised over $14 billion in committed capital and invested in more than 200 technology companies, making it one of the most active and longstanding investors in the technology industry. The firm invests in opportunities where its deep sectoral knowledge and operational expertise can help companies realize their full potential. For more information on Francisco Partners, please visit www.franciscopartners.com. About IGP Israel Growth Partners (IGP) is a private equity investment firm established with a mission to provide growth capital to Israeli-related technology companies. With $500 million in AUM, IGP seeks to partner with exceptional companies and management teams who are eager to accelerate their growth and to reach category leadership and significant position in their respective markets. For more information visit www.igpcapital.com. About LiveU LiveU is driving the live video revolution, providing live video streaming for TV, mobile, online and social media. Let your audience become part of your story with high-quality and flawless live video, transmitted from anywhere in the world, through the use of our patented bonding and video transport technology. LiveU creates a consistent bandwidth and a reliable connection so you can acquire, manage and distribute high quality remote live broadcasts over IP. Our broad portfolio of products sets the industry standard for live video production. From backpacks to smartphones, and satellite/cellular hybrid to external antenna solutions, LiveU offers a complete range of devices for live video coverage anytime, anywhere. In addition, LiveU offers extensive cloud-based management and video distribution solutions. With over 3,000 customers in 130+ countries, LiveU's technology is the solution of choice for global broadcasters, online media, news agencies and social media. For more information, visit www.liveu.tv, or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn or Instagram. Contacts: Joyce Essig (US) 201-742-5229 [email protected] Joss Armitage (Int'l) +44-7979-908-547 [email protected] SOURCE LiveU Related Links http://www.liveu.tv COPENHAGEN, Denmark and ARMONK, N.Y., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Global container carriers CMA CGM and MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) today announced they will join TradeLens (www.tradelens.com), a blockchain-enabled digital shipping platform, jointly developed by A.P. Moller - Maersk ( MAERSKb.CO ) and IBM (NYSE: IBM). More than 90 percent of global trade is carried out by the shipping industry each year. IBM and Maersk today announced that two of the world's largest ocean carriers, CMA, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, are using TradeLens, a blockchain-based shipping platform designed to increase transparency and efficiency across the global shipping ecosystem. Together CMA, MSC and Maersk, along with other carriers already on TradeLens, represent nearly half of the worlds container shipping volume. With CMA CGM, MSC, Maersk, and other carriers committed to the platform, data for nearly half of the world's ocean container cargo will be available on TradeLens. The addition of CMA CGM and MSC will provide a significant boost to the TradeLens vision of greater trust, transparency, and collaboration across supply chains to help promote global trade. The companies will promote TradeLens and create complementary services on top of the platform for their customers and partners. "Digitization is a cornerstone of the CMA CGM Group's strategy to provide an end-to-end offer tailored to our customers' needs. We believe that TradeLens, with its commitment to open standards and open governance, is a key platform to help usher in this digital transformation," said Rajesh Krishnamurthy, Executive Vice President, IT & Transformations, CMA CGM Group. "TradeLens' network is already showing that participants from across the supply chain ecosystem can derive significant value." "Digital collaboration is a key to the evolution of the container shipping industry. The TradeLens platform has enormous potential to spur the industry to digitize the supply chain and build collaboration around common standards," said Andre Simha, Chief Digital & Information Officer, MSC. "We think that the TradeLens Advisory Board, as well as standards bodies such as the Digital Container Shipping Association, will help accelerate that effort." TradeLens enables participants to connect, share information and collaborate across the shipping supply chain ecosystem. Members gain a comprehensive view of their data and can digitally collaborate as cargo moves around the world, helping create a transparent, secured, immutable record of transactions. The attributes of blockchain technology are ideally suited to large networks of disparate partners. Blockchain establishes a shared, immutable record of all the transactions that take place within a network and enables permissioned parties access to trusted data in real time. With more than 100 participants on the platform today, TradeLens is already processing over ten million discrete shipping events and thousands of documents each week, providing shippers, carriers, freight forwarders, customs officials, port authorities, inland transportation providers, and others a common view of transactions, which can build trust. A commitment to data ownership rights and permissioned access to data helps ensure privacy and confidentiality while enabling users to collaborate more efficiently with real-time access to shipping data. "The major advances IBM continues to make in blockchain illustrate that the technology is fostering new business models and playing an important role in how the world works" said Bridget van Kralingen, Senior Vice President, Global Industries, Clients, Platforms & Blockchain, IBM. "More than a hundred participants have put their trust in the TradeLens network and are gaining greater transparency and simplicity in the movement of goods. Together we are advancing a shared aim to modernize the world's trading ecosystems." CMA CGM and MSC to Play an Important Role in the TradeLens Network CMA CGM and MSC will operate a blockchain node, participate in consensus to validate transactions, host data, and assume the critical role of acting as Trust Anchors, or validators, for the network. CMA CGM and MSC will be on the TradeLens Advisory Board which will include members across the supply chain to advise on standards for neutrality and openness. Supporting the Entire Shipping Supply Chain "While carrier participation is critical, it is important to note that the TradeLens platform relies on participation from across the entire supply chain ecosystem," said Vincent Clerc, Chief Commercial Officer, A.P. Moller - Maersk. "Increasing ease of doing business for our customers and providing visibility across the container journey is at the center of the Maersk strategy. And TradeLens is all about that in its aim to transform the supply chain industry and provide value to all players, from freight forwarders, to ports and terminal operators and inland transportation providers, to customs and other governmental agencies, and ultimately to the customers themselves." Beneficial cargo owners like Procter and Gamble will benefit from the addition of more carriers onto the platform. "P&G ships a significant volume of ocean containers every year. Whether filled with our products or the materials used in production, understanding the status of our containers helps us manage an efficient supply chain. We are convinced that the industry will benefit from the transparency and accuracy of blockchain solutions and we are pleased to see MSC, CMA CGM, and Maersk all on the TradeLens platform. We have been testing TradeLens for the P&G business and see potential as the solution scales. We look forward to industry-wide adoption to benefit all network members," said Michelle Eggers, Director Global Logistics Purchases, P&G. About CMA CGM Led by Rodolphe Saade, the CMA CGM Group is a world leader in shipping and logistics. Its 509 vessels serve more than 420 ports on five continents around the world and carried nearly 21 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in 2018. With CEVA, a world leader in logistics services, CMA CGM handled more than 500,000 tons of airfreight and 1.9 million tons of inland freight in 2018. CMA CGM is enjoying sustained growth and is constantly innovating to offer customers new maritime, inland and logistics solutions. Present on every continent and in 160 countries through its network of 755 offices and 750 warehouses, the Group employs 110,000 people worldwide, of which 2,400 in Marseille where its head office is located. www.cmacgm-group.com About MSC MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. is a global leader in transportation and logistics, privately owned and founded in 1970 by Gianluigi Aponte. As one of the world's leading container shipping lines, MSC operates 480 offices across 155 countries worldwide with over 70,000 employees. With access to an integrated network of road, rail and sea transport resources which stretches across the globe, the company prides itself on delivering global service with local knowledge. MSC's shipping line sails on more than 200 trade routes, calling at over 500 ports. www.msc.com About TradeLens The TradeLens platform has been jointly developed by Maersk and IBM. TradeLens is an open and neutral industry platform underpinned by blockchain technology, supported by major players across the global shipping industry. The platform promotes the efficient, transparent and secure exchange of information in order to foster greater collaboration and trust across the global supply chain. www.tradelens.com Contacts: CMA CGM [email protected] IBM Holli Haswell [email protected] +1 720- 396-5485 Maersk Mikkel Linnet [email protected] +45 3363 8515 MSC [email protected] SOURCE IBM BETHESDA, Md., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Marriott Hotels announced today This Works as its new personal care amenity provider starting this month. This collaboration is the latest installment in Marriott Hotels' journey to inspire guests as they travel. Renowned for its natural and clean formulations This Works products are intelligently crafted to work in harmony with the body's circadian rhythms to optimize skin performance 24 hours a day. Marriott Hotels introduces This Works amenity product line Marriott Hotels, the iconic flagship brand of Marriott International, continues to find ways that enhance the travel experience for their guests. This Works collections such as In The Zone or In Transit are carefully curated to protect guests against the natural stressors that the body and hair are exposed to during travel. Other recent innovations from Marriott Hotels include the introduction of the Mind Menu in the M Club and integration of mobile-enabled innovations including check-in and check-out and F&B ordering. "Every touch point we have with our guests is an opportunity to enhance their travel experience," said Julius Robinson, Senior Vice President, Marriott Classic Premium Brands. "Marriott Hotels constantly seeks ways to help our guests be at their best. By offering products infused with live, naturally derived ingredients, we are helping them optimize their day with restorative products in the room." Launched in 2003, This Works' unique proposition provides clean skincare solutions formulated with proven, naturally-derived actives, and formulated without unnecessary chemicals. The brand's award-winning range of 24hr skin solutions provide exactly what your skin, your day and your lifestyle demands. The carefully curated Marriott collection of This Works amenities aims to help repair, protect and restore your body's balance. The in-room amenity kits will include: In the Zone Shower Gel & Body Lotion A natural blend of Eucalyptus and Petitgrain essential oils help to rebalance and revitalize body and mind. The perfect shower-time treat to help you focus and feel at your best. A natural blend of Eucalyptus and Petitgrain essential oils help to rebalance and revitalize body and mind. The perfect shower-time treat to help you focus and feel at your best. Clean Skin Face and Bath Bar A natural blend of Frankincense and Patchouli gently cleanse and moisturize skin A natural blend of Frankincense and Patchouli gently cleanse and moisturize skin In Transit Shampoo & Conditioner infused with Citrus, Nutmeg and Ginger essential oils, this uplifting duo gently cleanse and soften hair infused with Citrus, Nutmeg and Ginger essential oils, this uplifting duo gently cleanse and soften hair Deep Sleep Pillow Spray a powerful Superblend of True Lavender, Wild Chamomile and Vetiver helps you fall asleep faster, naturally, and wake-up feeling and looking more refreshed. "Each This Works product is formulated with a Superblend of naturally derived, scientifically proven ingredients at therapeutic levels which are expertly blended and without the use of unnecessary chemicals, to work in harmony with the body clock to boost not only skin health and performance, but also overall wellbeing at every phase of the 24 hour day." said Dr. Anna Persaud, This Works CEO. "We understand the needs of the busy Marriott guests and we are delighted to enhance their stay from morning to night." This new collaboration comes off the heels of the introduction of the Mind Menu, a collection of snacks and beverages with active ingredients that will enhance the mind and body throughout the day, including the new Brain Boosters which are a series of "shots" aimed at helping you recharge and decompress from your day. The morning drinks are highly concentrated with ingredients designed to stimulate your mind and taste buds, and later paired with the Slumbershot, packed with ingredients to help you unwind and digest. About Marriott Hotels With over 500 hotels and resorts in 65 countries and territories around the world, Marriott Hotels is evolving travel through every aspect of the guest's stay, enabling the next generation to Travel Brilliantly. Boldly transforming itself for mobile and global travelers who blend work and play, Marriott leads the industry with innovations, that elevate style & design and technology. To learn more, visit www.MarriottHotels.com . Stay connected to Marriott Hotels on Facebook, @marriott on Twitter and @marriotthotels on Instagram. Marriott Hotels is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the new name of Marriott's travel program replacing Marriott Rewards, The Ritz- Carlton Rewards, and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG). The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including earning points toward free hotel stays and nights toward Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com. About This Works With an international footprint encompassing Europe, North America, the Middle East, Asia & Australia, This Works is a smart, natural skincare brand that works in synchronicity with the body clock to maximise skin performance 24 hours a day. Combining its knowledge of the body clock and skin health with modern lifestyle learnings This Works develops skincare and wellbeing essentials that support a busy life, starting with a good night's sleep. At the heart of each This Works product is a Superblend - a powerful trio of natural actives, botanical oils and essential oils, each selected for their specific benefits and expertly blended without unnecessary chemicals to create, clean and targeted skincare that delivers with integrity. All products are free from phthalates, sulphates, synthetic colour and fragrance, parabens, GMOs, mineral oils, petrolatum and propylene glycol. Market leaders in the development of natural sleep solutions - with over four million pillow sprays sold worldwide - This Works' pillow sprays have been put through six independent user trials and clinical studies with over 900 participants. For more information about the brand and global stockists, visit www.thisworks.com. SOURCE Marriott International, Inc. Related Links http://www.marriott.com GLENWILLOW, Ohio, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- mDesign, the digitally native brand of InterDesign, Inc., is proud to announce its move to new headquarters located at 30325 Emerald Valley Parkway in Glenwillow, Ohio. The move accommodates the company's rapid growth in the houseware products market. "Our unprecedented growth in revenue, aggressive hiring of immensely talented associates, and desire to create a best-in-class working environment has led us to create a new headquarters for our mDesign division," said Chris Quinn, President and CEO of InterDesign USA. FREEHOLD, N.J., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation (NYSE: MNR) today announced that Michael P. Landy, President and Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Miller, Chief Financial Officer, and Eugene W. Landy, Chairman of the Board, are scheduled to participate in Nareit's REITweek: 2019 Investor Conference, to be held in New York City, at the Hilton New York Midtown. Monmouth's senior management team is scheduled to present on Tuesday, June 4, 2019, at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time. The presentation will be available live via webcast and accessible at the Company's website, www.mreic.reit , with a link on the Homepage in the Highlights section. The webcast replay will be available for 90 days after the presentation. Presentation materials will also be available at the Company's website Homepage, in the Highlights section. Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation, founded in 1968, is one of the oldest public equity REITs in the world. The Company specializes in single tenant, net-leased industrial properties, subject to long-term leases, primarily to investment-grade tenants. Monmouth Real Estate is a fully integrated and self-managed real estate company, whose property portfolio consists of 113 properties containing a total of approximately 21.8 million rentable square feet, geographically diversified across 30 states. In addition, the Company owns a portfolio of REIT securities. SOURCE Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation Related Links http://www.mreic.reit/ PISCATAWAY, N.J., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- It was a very significant week for Novadoz Pharmaceuticals, the U.S sales & marketing affiliate of The MSN Group (MSN) based in Hyderabad, India. The company was granted FDA approval to market Solifenacin Succinate tablets, their generic version of Astellas Pharma's product VesiCare, on May 20th. MSN also received FDA clearance to market Trientine Hydrochloride 250mg capsules, that is the company's AB rated generic to Valeant Pharmaceuticals brand Syprine on May 22nd. Solifenacin is available in 5mg and 10mg tablets in 30 and 90 count bottles. MSN received FDA approval for the Solifenacin Succinate as part of a DAY 1 launch that marked the brand's patent expiration. The product is in a class of drugs used to treat symptoms of an overactive bladder, such as frequent or sudden urination, and incontinence. U.S sales of Solifenacin have exceeded $940mil over the previous 12 months. Trientine 250mg capsules are available in 100 count bottles. The product is prescribed to treat Wilson's Disease for patients who cannot tolerate penicillamine. It is a condition where the body stores excess copper. The total market for Trientine over the previous 12 months exceeded $124mil. Commenting on the launch, Seshu Akula, President, N.A. Generics Novadoz Pharmaceuticals, states: "Our approval of Solifenacin and Trientine keeps with the organization's focus to participate in important DAY 1 launches, as well as introducing niche specialty products that provide tremendous value to the entire pharmaceutical supply chain. These approvals provide patients significant cost savings as alternatives to higher cost brands." Tom DeStefano, Novadoz's Vice President of Sales and Marketing, is quoted: "We are delighted to launch Solifenacin and Trientine and continue to establish Novadoz's reputation as a reliable and consistent supplier of high quality products to our customers. The value of our finished dosage forms is leveraged with our strength in APIs and backward integration with key starting materials and intermediates. Additionally, we will file upward of 30 ANDAs per year providing our company with a deep and extensive product pipeline." MSN Labs is engaged in the development and manufacturing of API (active pharmaceutical ingredients), KSMs (key starting materials), and product intermediates. MSN is currently ranked second in the world in that sector. In addition, the company manufactures finished dosage oral solids, liquids, & injectable products in sixty-five markets throughout the world. For more information, visit the company's websites at www.NovadozPharma.com & www.MSNLabs.com. Contact: Tom DeStefano, V.P Sales of Sales and Marketing for Novadoz Pharmaceuticals 239-770-0532 SOURCE Novadoz Pharmaceuticals Related Links http://www.NovadozPharma.com CHICAGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- NCSBN will recognize its dedicated and exceptional membership and guests at its annual awards ceremony during the NCSBN Annual Meeting and Delegate Assembly, held in Chicago, Aug. 21-23, 2019. Specific award recipients include: Elizabeth Lund, MSN, RN, executive officer, Tennessee State Board of Nursing, will be honored with the prestigious R. Louise McManus Award. Individuals receiving this award have made sustained and significant contributions through the highest commitment and dedication to the mission and vision of NCSBN. Fred Knight, JD, board staff, Arkansas State Board of Nursing, will receive the Meritorious Service Award, which is granted to a member for significant contributions to the mission and vision of NCSBN. Ingeborg "Bibi" Schultz, MSN, RN, CNE, board staff, Missouri State Board of Nursing, will receive the Exceptional Contribution Award, which is given for significant contribution by a member who is not a president or executive officer and demonstrated support of NCSBN's mission. The Alabama Board of Nursing will be awarded the Regulatory Achievement Award that recognizes the member board or associate member that has made an identifiable, significant contribution to the mission and vision of NCSBN in promoting public policy related to the safe and effective practice of nursing in the interest of public welfare. In addition, service awards will be given to the following executive officers of nursing regulatory bodies (NRBs): Five Years Margaret Cooke , PhD, RN, RM, executive officer, Nursing and Midwifery Council of New South Wales , PhD, RN, RM, executive officer, Nursing and Midwifery Council of Ruby Jason , MSN, RN, NEA-BC, executive director, Oregon State Board of Nursing , MSN, RN, NEA-BC, executive director, Oregon State Board of Nursing Tanya Vogt , executive officer, Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia 10 Years Anne Coghlan , MScN, RN, executive director & CEO, College of Nurses of Ontario 20 Years Kimberly Glazier , MEd, RN, executive director, Oklahoma Board of Nursing , MEd, RN, executive director, Board of Nursing Shirley Brekken , MS, RN, executive director, Minnesota Board of Nursing About NCSBN Founded March 15, 1978, as an independent not-for-profit organization, NCSBN was initially created to lessen the burdens of state governments and bring together nursing regulatory bodies (NRBs) to act and counsel together on matters of common interest. It has evolved into one of the leading voices of regulation across the world. NCSBN's membership is comprised of the NRBs in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and four U.S. territories American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands and the Virgin Islands. There are three exam user members. There are also 26 associate members that are either NRBs or empowered regulatory authorities from other countries or territories. Mission: NCSBN provides education, service and research through collaborative leadership to promote evidence-based regulatory excellence for patient safety and public protection. The statements and opinions expressed are those of NCSBN and not individual members. Contact: Dawn M. Kappel Director, Marketing and Communications 312.525.3667 direct 312.279.1034 fax [email protected] SOURCE National Council of State Boards of Nursing SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Medicx Media Solutions (https://medicxmedia.com), the leading data-driven healthcare media analytics company, today announced two appointments to its senior leadership team. Mark McCarthy and Virginia Evans have joined the company as Senior Vice President of Sales and Vice President of Performance Analytics, respectively. This addition of high-level expertise will accelerate Medicx' focus and delivery of several new solutions, including the company's "NewFront" offering and forthcoming advanced analytics products. Mark McCarthy, SVP, Sales, Medicx Media Solutions Virginia (Ginger) Evans, VP, Performance Analytics, Medicx Media Solutions To learn more about Medicx Media's leadership, visit: https://medicxmedia.com/about/ "I look forward to working alongside these new leaders to push the boundaries, build on our core business, drive profitable growth, and embrace operational excellence. Together we will continue to collaborate with our customers and develop new solutions addressing the challenges of our life science clients," said Medicx Executive Vice President and General Manager Dr. Eric Trepanier. Mark McCarthy joins the company with over 15 years of life sciences industry experience. Prior to Medicx, Mark was with Aptus Health, where he led global commercial teams including sales, operations, strategy and guided the sales organization with a customer focus. Within the industry, Mark has also held leadership positions with Prognos, WebMD, and Medsite. At Medicx, he will be responsible for leading the sales team and partnering with clients and agencies to drive top-line growth at Medicx. "I am excited to join Medicx, a company rooted in patented, HIPAA-compliant technology and data assets, to deliver superior performance for our clients," said Mr. McCarthy. "Our Micro-Neighborhood approach is an amazing platform that we can bring to an even wider client base looking to deliver superior audience quality." Virginia (Ginger) Evans brings more than 20 years of pharmaceutical industry experience to Medicx. Before joining the company, she led insights and performance intelligence at Sharecare and QualityHealth. As a Senior Client Solutions Director at inVentiv Health, Virginia managed Sales Force Optimization analytics for pharmaceutical and medical device clients including market segmentation, forecasting, promotion response, product and portfolio optimization, alignment, and call-planning activities. Virginia will be responsible for fine-tuning the company's campaign performance analytics to set a new industry standard and for helping to expand the company's offerings around advanced analytics products. "I am so pleased to join the Medicx team to capitalize on the significant growth opportunities we see for our new solutions across the healthcare industry. With the demand for more actionable insights, Medicx is uniquely poised to answer this call and help clients demonstrate the critical role they can play in improving patient outcomes," Mrs. Evans said. Mark and Virginia are based in Medicx' New York City office. About Medicx Media Solutions Medicx Media Solutions ( https://medicxmedia.com/ ) provides best-in-class data-driven healthcare media analytics that sets the standard for hyper-locally targeted multichannel marketing and media campaigns with a focus on life sciences and other health-related brands. Through a patented analytical and HIPAA-compliant1 segmenting and targeting platform, Medicx profiles nearly 35MM Micro-Neighborhoods, encompassing 240MM+ adult patients and over 4MM healthcare practitioners from evidence-based data. The outcome is an unmatched method of locating and engaging the right audiences across multiple platforms and channels resulting, in the more efficient and effective use of client's media dollars, higher audience quality, and compelling ROIs. A re-identification risk determination was performed pursuant to the HIPAA Privacy Rule Expert Determination standard and the determination concluded that, in the given data use and disclosure context, the risk of re-identification was very small. SOURCE Medicx Media Solutions Related Links http://www.medicxmedia.com VANCOUVER, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - NexGen Energy Ltd. ("NexGen" or the "Company") (TSX: NXE, NYSE MKT: NXE) is pleased to report radioactivity for an additional twenty holes comprising 7,969.5 m from the Company's Feasibility stage drilling program at our 100% owned, Rook I property in the Athabasca Basin Saskatchewan. Objective I: Conversion of Indicated Mineral Resources to Measured Category This current phase of the 2019 drilling program is targeting the A2 and A3 High-Grade Domain mine planning sections at a spacing between 9.0 m and 16.7 m. The target spacing incorporates the results of a geostatistical data spacing report compiled by Clayton V. Deutsch from Resource Modeling Solutions based on 189 drill holes, totaling 121,923.15 m, which forms the basis of the Indicated Mineral Resource of 256.6 M lbs at 4.04 % U 3 O 8 . All drill holes are collared at a steep inclination, then shallowed out between -55 and -60 before intersecting the target by utilizing the latest in directional drilling technology. Highlights: A2 High-Grade Domains and Sub-zone AR-19-229c2 intersected 46.5 m of total composite mineralization including 12.05 m of total composite off-scale radioactivity (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within an 86.0 m section (602.0 to 688.0 m ); intersected including (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within an section (602.0 to ); AR-19-229c4 intersected 39.0 m of total composite mineralization including 8.55 m of total composite off-scale radioactivity (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within an 88.0 m section (578.0 to 666.0 m ); intersected including (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within an section (578.0 to ); AR-19-230c3 intersected 30.5 m of total composite mineralization including 7.55 m of total composite off-scale radioactivity (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within a 93.0 m section (564.0 to 657.0 m ). Additionally, of the 7.55 m of off-scale mineralization intersected in the hole, 0.5 m of massive-to-semi massive pitchblende with minimum-greater-than-61,000 cps; intersected including (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within a section (564.0 to ). Additionally, of the of off-scale mineralization intersected in the hole, AR-19-235c1 intersected 43.0 m of total composite mineralization including 7.15 m of total composite off-scale radioactivity (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within a 93.0 m section (517.0 to 610.0 m ). Additionally, of the 7.15 m of off-scale mineralization intersected in the hole, 3.0 m of massive-to-semi massive pitchblende with minimum-greater-than-61,000 cps; intersected including (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within a section (517.0 to ). Additionally, of the of off-scale mineralization intersected in the hole, AR-19-236c2 intersected 26.0 m of total composite mineralization including 6.35 m of total composite off-scale radioactivity (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within an 89.0 m section (579.0 to 668.0 m . A3 High-Grade Domains AR-19-231c2 intersected 48.0 m of total composite mineralization including 5.75 m of total composite off-scale radioactivity (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within a 102.0 m section (469.0 to 571.0 m ); intersected including (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within a section (469.0 to ); AR-19-232c3 intersected 26.0 m of total composite mineralization including 5.1 m of total composite off-scale radioactivity (>10,000 to >61,000 cps) within an 89.0 m section (560.0 to 649.0 m ). Drill hole locations and schematics are shown in Figures 1 to 2, drilling results can be found in Table 1. Drill hole descriptions can be found at www.nexgenenergy.ca Development, Permitting, Appointments, Activities & Financial Expediting Arrow to Feasibility by a 2-stage (10 rig) high density drilling program focused on mine optimization plans based on Measured and Indicated mineral resources. focused on mine optimization plans based on Measured and Indicated mineral resources. As reported on April 29, 2019 , NexGen received acceptance of the Rook I Project Description (Technical Proposal) by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission ("CNSC") and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment ("MOE"). The acceptance marked the commencement of an Environmental Assessment ("EA") on the Rook I Project (the "Project") in accordance with the requirements of both The Environmental Assessment Act (Province of Saskatchewan) and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 "CEAA 2012" (Government of Canada). The EA is being conducted through a coordinated process between the MOE and the CNSC, which is the Federal life-cycle regulator for all uranium mine and mill projects in Canada . In addition, NexGen filed an Initial Licence Application with the CNSC under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act in order to obtain a Licence to Prepare Site and Construct for the Project. , NexGen received acceptance of the Rook I Project Description (Technical Proposal) by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission ("CNSC") and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment ("MOE"). The acceptance marked the commencement of an Environmental Assessment ("EA") on the Rook I Project (the "Project") in accordance with the requirements of both The Environmental Assessment Act (Province of Saskatchewan) and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 "CEAA 2012" (Government of Canada). The EA is being conducted through a coordinated process between the MOE and the CNSC, which is the Federal life-cycle regulator for all uranium mine and mill projects in . In addition, NexGen filed an Initial Licence Application with the CNSC under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act in order to obtain a Licence to Prepare Site and Construct for the Project. The Company also announces the appointments of Gillian McCombie , Vice President Human Resources and Arthur Lieu , MSc., P.Eng., Vice President Processing and Metallurgy. Gillian brings over 25 years of experience in human resources in the international mining and telecommunications sectors. Gillian most recently as Vice President Human Resources at Capstone Mining and prior to that with Telus and Placer Dome. Arthur joins NexGen having spent 20 years in mine processing and metallurgy. Most recently, he was the Chief Metallurgist at Cameco's Rabbit Lake mill and Orano's McClean Lake mill. Arthur holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering and a Master of Science degree in Geochemistry, with a focus on source-term characteristic of uranium waste rock piles at Cameco Key Lake uranium mine. Mr. Lieu is also trained in Lean Six Sigma Black Belt process improvement and optimization. Mr. Lieu is a registered Professional Engineer ( P. Eng ) with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS). , Vice President Human Resources and , MSc., P.Eng., Vice President Processing and Metallurgy. Gillian brings over 25 years of experience in human resources in the international mining and telecommunications sectors. Gillian most recently as Vice President Human Resources at Capstone Mining and prior to that with Telus and Placer Dome. Arthur joins NexGen having spent 20 years in mine processing and metallurgy. Most recently, he was the Chief Metallurgist at Cameco's mill and Orano's mill. Arthur holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering and a Master of Science degree in Geochemistry, with a focus on source-term characteristic of uranium waste rock piles at Cameco Key Lake uranium mine. Mr. Lieu is also trained in Lean Six Sigma Black Belt process improvement and optimization. Mr. Lieu is a registered Professional Engineer ( ) with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of (APEGS). The Company had cash-on-hand of approximately $90 million which fully funds NexGen for all drilling, feasibility and development programs planned this year. Leigh Curyer, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "These continuing high grade results received from sections of the ore body focused on the mine plan, highlight the extraordinary high grade and robustness of Arrow. In parallel, the Feasibility-stage engineering, metallurgical and environmental studies are all advancing extremely well, together with permitting and our community programs. I would like to take the opportunity to also welcome Arthur and Gill to the dedicated NexGen team. Two highly experienced and successful professionals in their respective fields joining NexGen at an incredibly exciting time as we begin to see positive signs emerging in the uranium market." Troy Boisjoli, Vice-President, Operations and Project Development, commented: "The continuity of mineralization within the high-grade core of Arrow is remarkable and these results highlight the technical advantages at the Arrow Deposit: mineralization hosted within stacked shear system (allowing holes to intersect multiple targets with one drill hole, minimizing total meterage), stable crystalline basement host rock, and extremely high-grades. These high grade results in all twenty holes will be incorporated into an updated Mineral Resource Estimate which will form the basis of the Feasibility Study, scheduled for release in H1 2020." Table 1: Arrow Deposit Drill Hole Data Drill Hole Athabasca Group - Basement Unconformity Depth (m) Handheld Scintillometer Results (RS-120) Hole ID Azimuth Dip Total Depth (m) From (m) To (m) Width (m) CPS Range AR-19-225c3 327 -65 283 N/A 452.5 454 1.5 <500 - 46000 481 481.5 0.5 <500 - 800 488 490 2 <500 - 700 494.5 498 3.5 <500 - 1050 501 501.5 0.5 <500 - 1200 586.5 602 15.5 <500 - 61000 610 610.5 0.5 <500 - 550 615.5 618.5 3 <500 - 1800 AR-19-229c1 327 -65 693 132.8 473 475 2 <500 - 1200 480.5 481 0.5 <500 - 600 488.5 489 0.5 1000 - 13000 495 495.5 0.5 <500 - 1240 501 502 1 <500 - 41500 504.5 509 4.5 <500 - 20200 511.5 513 1.5 <500 - 4000 516.5 520 3.5 <500 - 19800 522.5 533 10.5 <500 - 61000 535.5 538.5 3 <500 - 49000 543.5 546.5 3 <500 - 61000 549.5 550 0.5 1230 - 61000 570 570.5 0.5 <500 - 540 628.5 634 5.5 <500 - 61000 638 638.5 0.5 <500 - 610 642 645.5 3.5 <500 - 61000 651 675.5 24.5 <500 - 61000 AR-19-229c2 327 -65 309 N/A 494.5 495 0.5 <500 - 700 500.5 501 0.5 <500 - 2150 505 505.5 0.5 <500 - 680 508 508.5 0.5 <500 - 31000 514 514.5 0.5 <500 - 9400 517.5 519 1.5 <500 - 6000 524.5 525.5 1 <500 - 4000 530 536.5 6.5 <500 - 8590 541.5 542.5 1 580 - 52500 545 545.5 0.5 <500 - 3200 550.5 562.5 12 <500 - 61000 574.5 577 2.5 <500 - 2000 625 671.5 46.5 <500 - 61000 AR-19-229c3 327 -65 240 N/A 494.5 496 1.5 <500 - 14900 502 503 1 <500 - 53300 506.5 507.5 1 <500 - 19500 510 510.5 0.5 <500 - 800 513.5 514 0.5 <500 - 1100 517 518 1 <500 - 12100 522 524.5 2.5 <500 - 2800 529 531 2 <500 - 32600 539.5 541.5 2 <500 - 14100 544.5 549.5 5 <500 - 47900 558 561 3 <500 - 61000 563.5 565 1.5 <500 - 14000 571 573 2 <500 - 2100 579 586 7 <500 - 1500 592.5 594.5 2 <500 - 610 629.5 645.5 16 <500 - 61000 648 651.5 3.5 <500 - 4400 654 680 26 <500 - 61000 683 683.5 0.5 <500 - 1350 705 707 2 <500 - 930 711.5 718 6.5 <500 - 1300 AR-19-229c4 327 -65 465 N/A 404 405.5 1.5 <500 - 600 415.5 416 0.5 <500 - 820 464 466 2 <500 - 3150 471.5 472.5 1 <500 - 2300 480 486.5 6.5 <500 - 61000 489 489.5 0.5 <500 - 1300 494 499 5 <500 - 18600 501.5 505 3.5 <500 - 32000 508.5 510.5 2 <500 - 43000 516.5 531.5 15 <500 - 39000 613.5 652.5 39 <500 - 61000 AR-19-230c1 327 -65 651.5 128.35 499 499.5 0.5 <500 - 4800 502 502.5 0.5 <500 - 1200 515.5 522 6.5 <500 - 3200 524.5 532.5 8 <500 - 1700 566 566.5 0.5 <500 - 550 571 572 1 <500 - 1300 577 598.5 21.5 <500 - 61000 603 605.5 2.5 <500 - 1200 608 608.5 0.5 <500 - 1650 611 611.5 0.5 <500 - 1160 622 628.5 6.5 <500 - 1800 631.5 632 0.5 <500 - 6600 AR-19-230c2 327 -65 252.5 N/A 484 484.5 0.5 <500 - 750 496.5 501 4.5 <500 - 50200 522.5 523 0.5 <500 - 575 552 556.5 4.5 <500 - 740 559 563 4 <500 - 1400 570.5 572 1.5 <500 - 620 586 609.5 23.5 <500 - 61000 613.5 614.5 1 <500 - 3200 617 618 1 <500 - 750 621.5 630 8.5 <500 - 15600 636 636.5 0.5 <500 - 970 AR-19-230c3 327 -65 234 N/A 458 458.5 0.5 <500 - 1030 461.5 463.5 2 <500 - 820 474.5 475 0.5 <500 - 680 487 487.5 0.5 <500 - 910 504 504.5 0.5 <500 - 1030 521.5 524 2.5 <500 - 730 561.5 562.5 1 <500 - 1310 567.5 568 0.5 <500 - 510 592 614.5 22.5 <500 - 61000 619.5 623.5 4 <500 - 1280 626.5 628.5 2 <500 - 14500 654.5 655 0.5 <500 - 540 AR-19-231c1 327 -65 564.5 138 466 470.5 4.5 <500 - 14000 487.5 488 0.5 <500 - 500 497 505 8 <500 - 46000 510.5 511 0.5 <500 - 900 515.5 528 12.5 <500 - 58000 AR-19-231c2 327 -65 222.5 N/A 467.5 472.5 5 <500 - 38000 480.5 481 0.5 500 - 7500 485 488 3 <500 - 2700 491 493.5 2.5 <500 - 3100 498.5 499 0.5 500 - 6200 505.5 546.5 41 <500 - 61000 555 555.5 0.5 <500 - 770 AR-19-231c3 327 -65 261.5 N/A 505.5 506 0.5 <500 - 2100 509 523.5 14.5 <500 - 61000 527 528 1 <500 - 650 535.5 557 21.5 <500 - 61000 559.5 560.5 1 <500 - 1400 567.5 568 0.5 <500 - 560 571 571.5 0.5 <500 - 1100 AR-19-232c1 327 -65 642.5 138.8 211.5 212 0.5 <500 - 650 477.5 481.5 4 <500 - 2200 485.5 486.5 1 <500 - 600 493 494 1 <500 - 1700 506.5 507.5 1 <500 - 1450 517 520 3 <500 - 12000 534 537 3 <500 - 24000 544 544.5 0.5 2200 - 51000 548 552 4 <500 - 5300 563.5 565 1.5 <500 - 44000 568 570 2 <500 - 5700 574 574.5 0.5 <500 - 1800 577 577.5 0.5 <500 - 680 580.5 598 17.5 <500 - 23000 601 604 3 <500 - 3600 607.5 609.5 2 <500 - 1200 AR-19-232c2 327 -65 278.5 N/A 454.5 458 3.5 <500 - 2100 486 486.5 0.5 <500 - 660 492 495 3 <500 - 960 516 518.5 2.5 <500 - 7500 531.5 534.5 3 <500 - 14100 539.5 540 0.5 <500 - 5700 550 553 3 <500 - 61000 556 556.5 0.5 <500 - 1350 560.5 564 3.5 <500 - 39000 571 571.5 0.5 <500 - 720 574.5 594 19.5 <500 - 14200 599.5 600 0.5 <500 - 860 AR-19-232c3 327 -65 294.5 N/A 473 473.5 0.5 <500 - 620 483.5 484 0.5 <500 - 840 492 493.5 1.5 <500 - 2100 504.5 505.5 1 <500 - 960 519.5 520 0.5 <500 - 600 530 531.5 1.5 <500 - 31000 552 560.5 8.5 <500 - 61000 563 569.5 6.5 <500 - 17200 572 575.5 3.5 <500 - 15700 580.5 581 0.5 <500 - 690 589 592 3 <500 - 54600 599 599.5 0.5 <500 - 840 606 617.5 11.5 <500 - 61000 620 620.5 0.5 <500 - 1900 AR-19-233c3 327 -65 276.5 N/A 451 456.5 5.5 <500 - 980 459 466 7 <500 - 1500 468.5 469 0.5 <500 - 550 483 490 7 <500 - 43700 498.5 510.5 12 <500 - 17200 514 517.5 3.5 <500 - 1700 520.5 523.5 3 <500 - 3200 536.5 540 3.5 <500 - 1600 542.5 543 0.5 <500 - 600 AR-19-234c1 327 -65 522 127.5 472 491 19 <500 - 61000 AR-19-234c2 327 -65 177 N/A 471.5 503.5 32 <500 - 61000 AR-19-235c1 327 -65 620 132.7 425.5 427 1.5 <500 - 950 440.5 441.5 1 <500 - 4500 452.5 453.5 1 <500 - 660 456.5 462 5.5 <500 - 1300 478.5 479 0.5 <500 - 1400 492.5 509.5 17 <500 - 4500 526 526.5 0.5 <500 - 1200 534 534.5 0.5 <500 - 520 547.5 548 0.5 <500 - 510 563 585 22 <500 - 61000 588.5 590.5 2 <500 - 36000 605.5 606 0.5 <500 - 550 AR-19-236c1 327 -65 660.5 133.95 465 466.5 1.5 <500 - 17500 478.5 479 0.5 <500 - 510 500.5 501 0.5 <500 - 2200 503.5 504 0.5 <500 - 1060 515.5 521.5 6 <500 - 27500 525 525.5 0.5 510 - 1050 529.5 530 0.5 <500 - 630 586.5 587 0.5 <500 - 530 597 597.5 0.5 <500 - 780 600.5 619.5 19 <500 - 61000 624 624.5 0.5 <500 - 850 628.5 629.5 1 <500 - 1200 633.5 634 0.5 <500 - 760 637.5 642 4.5 <500 - 1650 660 660.5 0.5 <500 - 1070 AR-19-236c2 327 -65 321.5 N/A 457 457.5 0.5 <500 - 5000 465 465.5 0.5 <500 - 1170 468.5 469 0.5 <500 - 2650 472.5 474 1.5 <500 - 1300 478 478.5 0.5 <500 - 510 486.5 487.5 1 <500 - 3330 494 494.5 0.5 <500 - 1100 497 497.5 0.5 <500 - 710 502 502.5 0.5 <500 - 1330 509 519 10 <500 - 3770 522.5 530 7.5 <500 - 8900 573 573.5 0.5 <500 - 520 588 589 1 <500 - 610 600 601 1 <500 - 800 608.5 609 0.5 <500 - 510 613 617.5 4.5 <500 - 61000 621 629.5 8.5 <500 - 61000 639 642 3 <500 - 5700 645 650.5 5.5 <500 - 7700 653.5 654 0.5 <500 - 510 669.5 671 1.5 <500 - 5200 Parameters: Maximum internal dilution 2.00 m downhole downhole All depths and intervals are metres downhole, true thicknesses are yet to be determined "Anomalous" means >500 cps (counts per second) total count gamma readings by gamma scintillometer type RS-120 "Off-scale" means >10,000 cps (counts per second) total count gamma readings by gamma scintillometer type RS-120 Where "Min cps" is <500 cps, this refers to local low radiometric zones within the overall radioactive interval Directional drilling has often resulted in mineralization intersected at a more favourable and shallower dip About NexGen NexGen is a British Columbia corporation with a focus on the acquisition, exploration and development of Canadian uranium projects. NexGen has a highly experienced team of uranium industry professionals with a successful track record in the discovery of uranium deposits and in developing projects through discovery to production. NexGen owns a portfolio of prospective uranium exploration assets in the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, Canada; including a 100% interest in Rook I, location of the Arrow Deposit discovered in February 2014, the Bow discovery in March 2015, the Harpoon discovery in August 2016 and the Arrow South discovery in July 2017. NexGen is the recipient of the PDAC's 2018 Bill Dennis Award and the 2019 Environmental and Social Responsibility Award. Technical Disclosure The technical information in this news release with respect to the PFS has been reviewed and approved by Paul O'Hara, P.Eng. of Wood., David Robson, P.Eng., M.B.A., and Jason Cox, P.Eng. of RPA, each of whom is a "qualified person" under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI-43-101"). The Mineral Resource Estimate was completed by Mr. Mark Mathisen, C.P.G., Senior Geologist at RPA and Mr. David Ross, P.Geo., Director of Resource Estimation and Principal Geologist at RPA. Both are independent Qualified Persons in accordance with the requirements of National Instrument (NI) 43-101 and they have approved the disclosure herein. All other technical information in this news release has been approved by Mr. Troy Boisjoli, Geoscientist Licensee, Vice President Operations & Project Development for NexGen. Mr. Boisjoli is a qualified person for the purposes of NI 43-101 and has verified the sampling, analytical, and test data underlying the information or opinions contained herein by reviewing original data certificates and monitoring all of the data collection protocols. All other technical information in this news release has been approved by Mr. James Hatley, a Professional Engineer, Senior Vice-President Project Development for NexGen. Mr. Hatley is a qualified person for the purposes of NI 43-101 and has reviewed the underlying the information or opinions contained herein on mine design. A technical report in respect to the PFS is filed on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) and EDGAR (www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml) and is available for review on NexGen Energy's website (www.nexgenenergy.ca). SEC Standards Estimates of mineralization and other technical information included or referenced in this news release have been prepared in accordance with NI 43-101. The definitions of proven and probable mineral reserves used in NI 43-101 differ from the definitions in SEC Industry Guide 7. Under SEC Industry Guide 7 standards, a "final" or "bankable" feasibility study is required to report reserves, the three-year historical average price is used in any reserve or cash flow analysis to designate reserves and the primary environmental analysis or report must be filed with the appropriate governmental authority. As a result, the reserves reported by the Company in accordance with NI 43-101 may not qualify as "reserves" under SEC standards. In addition, the terms "mineral resource", "measured mineral resource", "indicated mineral resource" and "inferred mineral resource" are defined in and required to be disclosed by NI 43-101; however, these terms are not defined terms under SEC Industry Guide 7 and normally are not permitted to be used in reports and registration statements filed with the SEC. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of the mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into reserves. "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. Under Canadian securities laws, estimates of inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, except in rare cases. Additionally, disclosure of "contained pounds" in a resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian securities laws; however, the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute "reserves" by SEC standards as in place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measurements. Accordingly, information contained or referenced in this news release containing descriptions of the Company's mineral deposits may not be comparable to similar information made public by U.S. companies subject to the reporting and disclosure requirements of United States federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder. Technical Information For details of the Rook I Project including the quality assurance program and quality control measures applied and key assumptions, parameters and methods used to estimate the Mineral Resource please refer to the technical report entitled "Arrow Deposit, Rook I Project Saskatchewan NI 43-101 Technical Report on Pre-feasbility Study" dated effective 5 November, 2018 (the "Rook 1 Technical Report") prepared by Paul O'Hara, P.Eng., Jason J. Cox, P.Eng., David M. Robson, P.Eng., M.B.A., Mark B. Mathisen, C.P.G. each of whom is a "qualified person" under NI 43-101. The Rook I Technical Report is available for review under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and EDGAR (www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml) providing details of the Rook I Project including the quality assurance program and quality control measures applied and key assumptions, parameters and methods used to estimate the Mineral Resource and is available on NexGen Energy's website (www.nexgenenergy.ca). Forward-Looking Information The information contained herein contains "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 securities legislation. "Forward-looking information" includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negative connotation thereof 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" or the negative connotation thereof. Forward-looking information and statements are based on the then current expectations, beliefs, assumptions, estimates and forecasts about NexGen's business and the industry and markets in which it operates. Forward-looking information and statements are made based upon numerous assumptions, including among others, that the proposed transaction will be completed, the results of planned exploration activities are as anticipated, the price of uranium, the cost of planned exploration activities, that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms, that third party contractors, equipment, supplies and governmental and other approvals required to conduct NexGen's planned exploration activities will be available on reasonable terms and in a timely manner and that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner. Although the assumptions made by the Company in providing forward looking information or making forward looking statements are considered reasonable by management at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking information and statements also involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performances and achievements of NexGen to differ materially from any projections of results, performances and achievements of NexGen expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or statements, including, among others, negative operating cash flow and dependence on third party financing, uncertainty of the availability of additional financing, the risk that pending assay results will not confirm previously announced preliminary results, imprecision of mineral resource estimates, the appeal of alternate sources of energy and sustained low uranium prices, aboriginal title and consultation issues, exploration risks, reliance upon key management and other personnel, deficiencies in the Company's title to its properties, uninsurable risks, failure to manage conflicts of interest, failure to obtain or maintain required permits and licenses, changes in laws, regulations and policy, competition for resources and financing, and other factors discussed or referred to in the Company's Annual Information Form dated March 4, 2019 under "Risk Factors". 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 or implied by forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or reissue forward-looking information as a result of new information or events except as required by applicable securities laws. SOURCE NexGen Energy Ltd. Related Links http://www.nexgenenergy.ca/ ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The National PACE Association (NPA) thanks the staff of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for their efforts updating the outdated regulations governing Programs of All-Inclusive Care or the Elderly (PACE), issued in 2006. "PACE continues to be an innovative model of care even though we have been serving elders with long-term needs and their families for decades," said NPA CEO and President Shawn Bloom. "These updated regulations build on the success of the PACE model and will improve the ability of PACE organizations to keep even more people out of nursing homes and in the community." PACE is an integrated care delivery model that serves over 49,000 older people in need of nursing home care in the community. PACE successfully saves taxpayer money while delivering high-quality, comprehensive care for nursing home-eligible individuals. Ninety-five percent of PACE enrollees are able to live in the community. "These new regulations are an important step in helping PACE to grow faster and benefit more people at risk of nursing home placement," said Peter Fitzgerald, Executive Vice President of Policy and Strategy for NPA. "For the last two years NPA has been working with our foundation partners and the PACE community on our PACE 2.0 project seeking to develop additional innovations that will help PACE grow even more quickly and serve new populations in the future. Meanwhile, these new regulations will provide greater flexibilities that will help PACE programs grow faster, operate more efficiently, and enhance care delivery now." In its press release, CMS indicates that the new regulations will provide more flexibility around the composition of the interdisciplinary team for each individual and standardize the waiver process for common PACE waiver requests. These two changes are key improvements NPA sought when commenting on the proposed rule, and we are encouraged to see them in the press release. NPA and the PACE community will study the new regulations over the next few days to assess their full impact. The National PACE Association (NPA) works to advance the efforts of Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). PACE programs coordinate and provide all needed preventive, primary, acute and long-term care services so older individuals can continue living in the community. The PACE Model of Care is centered on the belief that it is better for the well-being of seniors with chronic care needs and their families to be served in the community whenever possible. For more information, visit the NPA website at www.npaonline.org. Contact Robert Greenwood 443-822-5416 SOURCE National PACE Association Related Links http://www.NPAonline.org Nick Osgood, President and CEO of NSD Seafood had this to say, "National Fish has a strong customer base and they enjoy working with our staff, which is very skilled and knowledgeable." The acquisition will allow Atlantic Fish & Seafood to begin production as early as May 28, 2019. This will allow Atlantic Fish & Seafood to meet customer orders and ship products to grocery stores by the end of May. AUSTIN, Texas, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- OJO Labs, a leading-edge technology company on a mission to empower consumer decision-making through its conversational AI assistant, OJO, won the highly coveted 2019 A-List Award among mid-sized companies from the Austin Chamber of Commerce in partnership with SXSW. OJO Labs, a leading-edge technology company on a mission to empower consumer decision-making through its conversational AI assistant, OJO, won the highly coveted 2019 A-List Award among mid-sized companies from the Austin Chamber of Commerce in partnership with SXSW. This brings OJO Labs' major award count so far this year to eight, dominating national and local "Best Places to Work" lists, including Inc. Magazine's "Best Workplaces 2019," Fortune Magazine's 2019 list of "Best Places to Work," Austin Business Journal's "Best Places to Work in 2019," and Built in Austin's "Best Places to Work in 2019." The Austin-based company was also a winner of the "Artificial Intelligence Excellence Award" from Business Intelligence Group, named the "Best Digital Property Search Platform" by Corporate Vision Magazine, received HousingWire's biggest honor, its TECH100 list, and honored with the prestigious "2019 Red Herring Top 100 North America Award." Winning the Red Herring award, which is judged by industry experts, insiders and journalists on a wide variety of criteria including financial performance, innovation, business strategy, and market penetration, is a significant achievement with previous winning alumni including Alibaba, Google, Kakao, Skype, Spotify, Twitter and YouTube. "These awards are a reflection of the incredibly talented and passionate people we have working at our company," said John Berkowitz, CEO of OJO Labs. "Our vision and dedication to developing technology, products and exceptional customer experiences is a part of the fabric of our culture. Inherent in these awards is the character of an intelligent team collaborating to solve some of the biggest challenges and executing on our goals. As we continue to hire across all departments and office locations, we are accelerating our scale to serve millions more consumers." Angela Dunham, COO of OJO Labs, notes that the "Best Places to Work" awards were based on independent surveys of its team members. "When you win an award recognizing the company, it's a special honor. But when you win an award that is rooted in how the people you hire feel about working at their company, it's priceless," she said. OJO, the machine-powered assistant, helps consumers with answers to any questions and access to all kinds of real estate information through vast databases of online and offline sources. Accessing listing details, home features, neighborhood selection, budget or financing guidance, and education surrounding one of their largest purchases, is in their hand all the time. Consumers have the control and ability to source information without pressure, or get connected to a professional when they are ready. OJO works in partnership with leading REALTORS and matches them with highly qualified agents who can best serve their needs based on their customized profile. By providing both parties with a foundation of information through a warm hand-off, OJO helps to establish trust between the agent and the consumer from the start. Now in its ninth year, the 2019 A-List Award from the Austin Chamber of Commerce and SXSW honors breakthrough local, homegrown companies. Some 165 firms were nominated and considered for the award. A panel of independent judges evaluated businesses in three investment stage categories: start-up, mid-size and scaling. OJO Labs' A-List Award was for a Mid-Size firm receiving more than $10 million in funding. "Austin was recognized as the number one city to live by U.S. News this year, and it is a growing hub of incredible talent," noted Berkowitz. "Our founding headquarters was launched in Austin to bring together generations of talent, build an exceptional company and have an impact on the community of such a vibrant, expanding city." Recently, OJO Labs raised $45 million in Series C funding to accelerate its development and expansion. The company has increased its market-leading position as it continues to hire and build world-class data science, engineering, product and design teams. OJO Labs is rapidly expanding in each of its three offices Austin, where OJO Labs' headquarters is based; Minneapolis-St. Paul, where last fall, OJO Labs combined with leading real estate data services provider, WolfNet; and St. Lucia, where the company operates its AI training and customer service teams. A list of current career opportunities with OJO Labs is available at https://corporate.ojo.me/careers. About OJO Labs Inc. - OJO Labs is on a mission to empower people to make better decisions through the fusion of machine and human intelligence. The company's unique, patented AI technology products can conduct text conversations with consumers at scale. By combining natural language understanding with data and personalization, the products allow consumers to deeply engage in a purchase process before interacting with a salesperson. OJO Labs is backed by the two most active VC firms in Texas, leaders in real estate and financing industries, as well as key industry executives. OJO Labs has been recognized as a Best Places to Work in Austin by the Austin Business Journal, an Austin A-List and 50 On Fire winner, recognized in Comparably's 2018 Best Company Culture Awards, named a Built In Austin 2019 Best Company to Work For, and a 2019 Artificial Intelligence Excellence Awards recipient. The OJO team has decades of combined success scaling businesses and deep experience in data science, engineering, product marketing and operations. Media Contact: Christine Jacobson 415-595-8787 [email protected] Related Images ojo-labs-wins-2019-a-list-award-5.jpg OJO Labs wins 2019 A-List Award : 5 months, 8 Major Awards OJO Labs, a leading-edge technology company on a mission to empower consumer decision-making through its conversational AI assistant, OJO, won the highly coveted 2019 A-List Award among mid-sized companies from the Austin Chamber of Commerce in partnership with SXSW. Related Links OJO Labs SOURCE OJO Labs, Inc. Related Links https://landing.ojo.me/ Unique Opportunity for Colorado Cannabis Franchisor to Address its Key Industry Audiences- Cannabis & Franchising- This Week at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center NEW YORK CITY, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Denver-based ONE Cannabis is building a major growth vehicle that will be taking the industry mainstream: cannabis franchising. In a one-of-a-kind occurrence, both industry segments are uniting this week at the Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) and International Franchise Expo (IFE) at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. ONE Cannabis is exhibiting at both shows to teach the cannabis crowd about franchising, and prospective franchise owners about the legal cannabis market. Taking place from May 29 to June 1, CWCBExpo is a business-to-business trade show for the legalized cannabis industry. It's a leading forum for dispensary owners, growers, suppliers, investors and entrepreneurs who are looking to achieve business success and identify new areas of growth in this dynamic and fast-growing industry. Taking place from May 30 to June 1, IFE is the largest franchise expo in the country, where thousands of entrepreneurs and future business owners meet face-to-face with representatives from 400-plus franchise companies. "For anyone interested in cannabis entrepreneurship, this is an ideal opportunity to explore both worlds at once and meet the only relevant team that's primed to engage with both audiences," said ONE Cannabis CEO and Co-Founder Christian Hageseth. ONE Cannabis seeks prospective retail dispensary owners interested in growing the brand in U.S. and Canadian markets where medicinal or recreational use is legalized, and has single- and multi-unit franchise opportunities available. "The most common question we hear from the franchise crowd is: how is this possible? And, the answer is quite simple: we operate like any other traditional franchise, providing the same depth of resources, ongoing support and vendor relationships that one would expect with any other franchise concept," said Hageseth. "Our commodity just happens to be cannabis. I encourage anyone exploring business opportunities in marijuana to visit us at either show and immerse yourself in cannabis at CWCBExpo." Several key company players will be present at both shows. Interested parties can visit ONE Cannabis at Booth No. 151 at CWCBExpo and Booth No. 423 at IFE, or contact the VP of Franchise Development Justin Livingston at [email protected] to set up an introductory meeting. ONE CANNABIS LEADS CANNABIS FRANCHISING IN NORTH AMERICA ONE Cannabis began franchising in early 2018 and currently has five franchise agreements signed for Colorado development, as well as several agreements in the works in other states and in Canada with different entrepreneurial teams. The company expects to add a dozen corporate and franchise locations in 2019 in multiple states. Recently, ONE Cannabis became the first marijuana business to earn a Franchise Times Dealmakers award. This recognition is presented to the boldest players driving mergers and acquisitions in franchising. JOIN THE BUDDING CANNABIS MARKET WITH INDUSTRY LEADERS ONE Cannabis team members have decades of experience in the legal cannabis industry, franchising and operations. With a proven business model in-hand, franchisees gain access to this knowledge including operational systems, best practices, depth of resources, exclusive award-winning products and hundreds of vetted business relationships as well as national brand recognition and marketing support. IDEAL FRANCHISE PARTNERS ONE Cannabis partners with both new franchisee investors and existing multi-unit franchisees who are looking to diversify their franchise portfolio. Franchise partner investment costs range from $750,000 to $2.5 million, including a $100,000 franchise fee for a single unit or $250,000 for three units. Those interested in becoming a ONE Cannabis franchisee should have access to $750,000 in liquid capital. Franchisees may be owner-operators or passive owners with a designated, experienced manager running operations. To learn more about the ONE Cannabis franchise opportunity, contact Justin Livingston at [email protected] or visit ocginc.com. ABOUT ONE CANNABIS : ONE Cannabis is a Denver-based cannabis franchisor. The company's cutting-edge franchise offering stems from over a decade of proven cannabis operation combined with decades of franchise experience with industry veterans. With countless industry awards, the marijuana pioneers have now built the world's most powerful cannabis business franchise system. Through its franchise opportunities and Social Equity & Economic Development (SEED) program, ONE eases the industry's barrier to entry, making cannabis entrepreneurship more feasible to a broader group. ONE Cannabis CEO and co-founder Christian Hageseth has been named an "Industry Trailblazer" by High Times magazine. His entrepreneurial journey in the cannabis industry is chronicled in his book: Big Weed: An Entrepreneur's High-Stakes Adventures in the Budding Legal Marijuana Business. For more information about the ONE Cannabis franchise opportunity, visit ocginc.com. SOURCE ONE Cannabis Health care services for the town of more than 26,000 residents also was badly damaged by the Camp Fire, forcing many to drive long distances to see a doctor. "Having Paradise Medical Group re-establish its presence back in Paradise is welcome news and we're grateful that they are committed to serving and helping our community rebuild," said Paradise Medical Group patient Bradford Ogden, 65. "As a patient I'm excited to try some of the new technologies such as PMG Connect, which will be a huge help especially for those of us who live outside Paradise." More than 100 dignitaries, community leaders and PMG staff gathered on Friday, May 24 at PMG's Paradise clinic on Pentz Road, for a "Homecoming Community Event" to mark the occasion. "The Camp Fire has exacted a heavy toll on our community in Northern California, but with each passing day, we grow one small step closer to a sense of normalcy," said Rep. Doug LaMalfa, who represents Paradise in Congress. "Paradise Medical Group's return will reintroduce experienced doctors into their facilities in Paradise while the introduction of new technology to allow displaced residents to see a physician remotely will be a game changer. It's no secret that a long road to recovery still lies ahead, but I'm grateful to Blue Shield of California and PMG for their commitment to helping Butte County recover." PMG's return is part of the community's long road to recovery and renewal. The fire left more than 85 dead and over 18,000 buildings destroyed, including PMG's main clinic building. Blue Shield has played a key role in supporting PMG since its physicians and staff were displaced after the wildfire. The work has included a collaboration with Teladoc Health to build PMG Connect, a much-needed service for PMG providers to care for their patients, many of whom have dispersed into neighboring communities, and helping reopen the Paradise clinic. Blue Shield's assistance was part of the nearly $2 million in support the nonprofit health plan provided to help restore health care delivery and other services in response to the wildfires throughout California last Fall. "In the wake of the Camp Fire, we were engulfed in how to reconnect phones and medical records, answer phones and renew destroyed medical supplies and medications when we quickly realized that we had the possibility of going bankrupt as we continued to provide care for our community," said Richard Thorp, M.D., President of Paradise Medical Group. "In an answer to prayer, Blue Shield of California with the encouragement of the California Medical Association extended gifts of financial and operational support that pulled PMG back from the brink of collapse." Thorp added: "Blue Shield has provided and continues to provide unwavering support which has allowed PMG to return to Paradise, provide care to our patients who have evacuated to distant communities via PMG Connect and given us the opportunity to reinvent the future of primary care in Paradise. PMG would not be in a position to face a new future without the financial and operational assistance of Blue Shield." When the Camp Fire raged across the tinder dry hills of Butte County last fall, doctors and staff at PMG were among the last to leave their town. One pediatrician sent his family to safety while he helped moms and their newborn babies evacuate a nearby hospital while another staff member risked his life to save patient records on disk drives, bundling them frantically and fleeing on his motorcycle just moments before the flames arrived. "In the aftermath of such tragedy, Paradise Medical Group's courage and commitment to the Paradise and the larger Butte County community are simply inspirational, and Blue Shield of California is honored to support them in a meaningful way," said Jeff Bailet, M.D., Executive Vice President, Blue Shield of California. "At Blue Shield, we are passionate about providing people access to care that is worthy of our family friends, and our collaboration with Paradise Medical Group helps us make that a reality for residents in this region." After the fire, PMG, which serves about 10,000 area residents, relocated temporarily to rented space in the nearby city of Chico, where the practice's doctors will continue to see their patients. The largest of their three original buildings in Paradise was destroyed in the fire and the remaining two buildings have limited clinic space. In order to help the medical group return to Paradise more quickly, Blue Shield is assisting in renovating the remaining facilities to maximize the clinic capacity. "The reopening of this clinic is a testament to what is possible when community and health care leaders work together," said David. H. Aizuss, President of the California Medical Association. "Thanks to the dedication and perseverance of the physicians and staff of PMG, and an unprecedented partnership with Blue Shield, we are not only creating a better future for the people of Paradise but reimagining what is possible for rural communities and health care practices across California." PMG Connect will serve all Paradise Medical Group patients, regardless of their health plan. Patients can now see PMG providers using their mobile phone, tablet or computer no matter where either is located, and receive diagnosis and treatment for an array of conditions. Doctors will be able to treat medical issues such as upper respiratory infections and other breathing illnesses fire survivors experience, as well as many other everyday care needs. For Blue Shield of California members, the service will be available with no additional cost to the member. About Paradise Medical Group Paradise Medical Group is a multi-specialty primary care group formed in 2001. The group formed after California Health Foundation divested physicians in the late 1990s. Group physicians are trained in and practice family medicine, internal medicine and pediatric medicine. Paradise Medical Group's physicians include practitioners who have practiced medicine on "The Ridge" for over 30 years. Paradise Medical Group physicians have held key medical leadership positions over the last 20 years in various capacities including 3 Chiefs of Staff of Feather River Hospital, a member of Adventist Health's Governing Board, a President of The Butte-Glenn Medical Society and The California Medical Association and have served on advisory boards and as consultants. About Blue Shield of California Blue Shield of California strives to create a health care system worthy of our family and friends that is sustainably affordable. We are a not-for-profit, independent member of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association with 4 million members, 6,800 employees and more than $20 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 and headquartered in San Francisco, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid and Medicare health care service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $500 million to Blue Shield of California Foundation since 2002 to have an impact on California communities. For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com. Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook. CONTACT: Matthew Yi Blue Shield of California 415-229-5359 [email protected] SOURCE Blue Shield of California Related Links https://www.blueshieldca.com DETROIT, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Lambert & Co., Michigan's top-ranked public relations firm and a top-50 PR firm nationally, partnered with long-time client HarperCollins Publishers to donate 5,000 early-reader books from the Michigan-based Zonderkidz imprint to students at Detroit Public Schools, Flint Community Schools and the Detroit Literacy Project. To celebrate its 20th anniversary and heritage built on the written word, Lambert is giving the gift of lifelong learning to the next generation of readers. The premium hardcover and softcover books, including New York Times Best Seller Fiona the Hippo and selections from the wildly popular and iconic Berenstain Bears series, including Sister Bear and the Golden Rule and Berenstain Bears Respect Each Other, were given to 5,000 individual K-4th grade students across 20 Detroit and Flint schools. "Literacy and specifically fourth grade reading levels are key determinants of future success in education and in life," said Jeff Lambert, CEO and founder of Lambert. "We wanted to celebrate our success as an agency by paying it forward to our most deserving communities and to the kids who will most benefit from the gift of words." Representatives from Lambert and HarperCollins presented the pallets of books to schools and kids in Flint and Detroit. "Literacy is an integral part of the learning process, and giving children books their very own, brand new books will make a meaningful impact on the essential skills for thousands of students," said Flint Community Schools Superintendent Derrick Lopez. "It's truly a gift that lasts a lifetime and will have a multiplying effect as these books go home to siblings, families and neighbors. We're grateful for our partnership with Lambert and appreciate their investment in our students and the next generation." Lambert added: "We worked with Detroit Public Schools when it reorganized and many of our colleagues and clients are graduates of DPS and neighbors with these students. Likewise, we have supported Flint Community Schools since the water issues challenged the community of Flint, and we could think of no better way to give back than to causes and kids we care about. "One phone call to a client and friend of the firm for most of our 20 years, HarperCollins, and they were expanding our vision from 2,000 books to 5,000, and did a remarkable job of curating best-sellers and award-winning authors to give the kids of Detroit and Flint not just books, but the best books with the most potential to impact early reading development." HarperCollins has been entertaining, educating and inspiring generations of readers for 200 years. As the second-largest consumer book publisher in the world, HarperCollins Publishers supports local communities through volunteer efforts, book donations and various charitable organizations. Lambert's Education and Social Impact practice works with educational institutions from early childhood development to higher education and non-profit and community organizations and causes that matter. The firm has contributed more than $2.5 million in pro bono work and contributions since its founding in 1998. About Lambert Lambert (www.lambert.com) is Michigan's top-ranked PR firm, and a top-10 investor relations and top-10 private equity PR firm nationally with clients based in 20 states and six countries. Lambert serves middle-market companies and national brands across a wide array of industries and is the state's largest bipartisan public affairs firm. Lambert has posted 20 years of growth, been named PR Week and PRNews Firm of the Year, been honored as an Edward Lowe "Michigan 50 Companies to Watch," and earned Crain's "Michigan's Healthiest Employers" and "Coolest Places to Work" awards. Lambert is also a global partner in PROI Worldwide, the largest partnership of independent PR firms in the world spanning 120 cities on five continents. About Zonderkidz Zonderkidz, the children's division of Zondervan, inspires young lives through imagination and innovation. As a leader in children's publishing, Zonderkidz creates products that awaken the hearts of readers 12 and under. For additional information, please visit www.zonderkidz.com. About Zondervan Zondervan is part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., delivering transformational experiences through its bestselling books, curriculum, academic resources and digital products. The Company's products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan's offices are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com. CONTACT Jessica Price, coordinator [email protected] 313.309.9503 SOURCE Lambert & Co. Related Links http://www.lambert-edwards.com CASTLE PINES, Colo., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Proximo Medical today announced that it has been selected as the marketing and commercial partner for Walk Vascular, an innovative medical device company that has developed JETi, a novel Peripheral Thrombectomy Catheter. Proximo Medical is a fractional commercial organization for start-up medical device technologies that delivers market validation, an experienced workforce and scalability to deliver accelerated revenues. Walk Vascular just released its new JETi 88 device which employs a powerful internal jet, located just inside its catheter mouth, capable of engaging large thrombus volumes through a miniature lumen, rapidly clearing peripheral vessels that would prove difficult and frequently clog standard aspiration devices. Last fall, Jean Cournoyer-Rodrigue, MD, Centre Hospitalier de l'Universite de Montreal Research Center in Montreal, Quebec, presented data from a study assessing the safety and efficacy of the JETi Thrombectomy System at CIRSE 2018, the Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology Society of Europe annual meeting held in Lisbon, Portugal. The system was tested in 23 venous thromboembolism cases with an 83% rate of technical success, defined as restoration of antegrade flow with the elimination of any obstructing lesion without overnight postprocedural lytic infusion via catheter-directed thrombolysis. "This percentage of 'single session' efficacy, with a mean total procedure time of 73 minutes is quite remarkable relative to the existing literature. Using devices that require adjunctive procedures, ICU stays, is not a win for anyone in the healthcare value chain, especially the patient. Single session devices offer great promise of a new treatment paradigm," states Cournoyer-Rodrigue. "By partnering with Proximo Medical we can hit the ground sprinting, with high quality direct sales representatives that startups generally can't afford without the need for additional funding," states David Look, President & CEO, Walk Vascular. "Proximo provides a crucial next step absent of most technology developers. Their ability to quickly de-risk commercial viability, confirm reordering patterns and document the salesforce's ramp time provides huge value to both the developer and potential future acquirer." "We are pleased to be working with Walk Vascular and the JETi technology, a proven solution that safely and effectively restores blood flow in coronary and peripheral interventional procedures," states Brett Martin, CEO, Proximo Medical. "With more than 75% of medical device start-ups failing prior to commercialization, we are proud to partner with innovators like Walk Vascular to provide insights, marketing strategy, and a top-tier salesforce to ensure commercial success and clinical adoption." About Proximo Medical Proximo Medical is a business acceleration solution that effectively and efficiently overcomes medical device commercialization challenges. Proximo Medical provides medical device innovators with market analysis, economic insights and a world class sales and marketing team focused on commercial execution. Proximo brings innovative solutions to the market to allow patients to receive the best care and physicians to provide the best care in a cost-effective model. Proximo Medical also partners with venture capital and private equity groups who have a portfolio of medical device technologies to make highly informed investment decisions and maximize enterprise value. Visit ProximoMedical.com About Walk Vascular Headquartered in Irvine, CA, Walk Vascular is a performance driven medical device company dedicated to addressing physician needs with product design and rapid iteration. Walk Vascular has an innovation-driven culture and recruits top notch engineering talent willing to address the most challenging and complex medical conditions facing our health care systems today. Visit https://www.jeti.tv/ Media Contact: Amy Triandiflou Phone: 719-352-5394 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Proximo Medical Related Links http://ProximoMedical.com LAS VEGAS, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- RockPro Enterprises is showing fast growth and popularity as they take hold of the windshield repair industry with the launch of their new product. Specializing in windshield repair, RockPro's one-of-a-kind patented process is the best DIY solution to fixing pesky windshield chips and pits. They remove bigger chips, better and faster than any competitor on the market and all for a cheaper price! DIY Repair Kit Commercial Repair Kit Since their launch in March 2019 they have received astounding results and interest in their DIY kit. Currently you can find RockPro's DIY windshield repair kits on Amazon, Ebay, and in their three Las Vegas locations: 2915 Losee Road ste 101, 4726 Flamingo, and 3111 S. Valley View Blvd Ste 0-101. With their finished product in hand and selling fast, RockPro just broke into Calgary in Alberta, Canada finalizing a deal with Revolution Detailing Supply. They are also in negotiations with a large national auto supply dealer, working at making their easy to use repair kits accessible to all of us. RockPro's revolutionary windshield repair equipment will also be featured in Motor Week and on the Motor Trend network, giving them a huge upcoming audience for both their commercial and DIY repair kits. While their expansion is developing fast, they are proving they're ready for it, gearing up to be the go-to windshield repair kit in the United States. For many retailers the big selling point is that RockPro's DIY kit can be successfully used by literally ANYONE. With an instructional video depicting a 4-year-old girl successfully repairing a chipped windshield in less than 10 minutes, they are proving their DIY kit is truly a DO IT YOURSELF SUCCESS! RockPro's interchangeable hot and cold cartridge options, catering to various climates and weather changes, is proving to be a game changer for commercial fleets in need of fast windshield repair in any circumstance or situation. The RockPro commercial unit is on track to become the standard in the auto repair industry. This kit is perfect for automotive body shops, mobile glass repair companies, wholesale automotive supply stores and commercial fleets. With a big pit adapter and a corner adapter the commercial repair kit can be adjusted to repair larger pits and all types of corners and edges. For a total cost of $59.99 , and with replacement cartridges as low as $1.75 each, the RockPro commercial unit is the most affordable and user-friendly windshield repair kit in the auto-repair industry. The RockPro DIY unit is perfect for every garage, roadside emergency kit, and do-it-yourselfers. For a total cost of $19.99 they are the most affordable DIY windshield repair kits available today. RockPro's repair kits have officially launched, and are stocked, so place your order now to ensure your shelves are stocked and your customers are guaranteed a successful chip repair process! Place your order on RockPro.info today! RockPro Enterprises (702) 888 5086 RockPro.info Media contact: Jarah Sakamoto [email protected] 831-251-1006 SOURCE RockPro Enterprises Related Links http://RockPro.info Top press and industry professionals watched as models walked down the runway sporting innovative designs from graduating students. Designs included womenswear, menswear, knitwear, and childrenswear collections. Students' creative inspirations for the 29 unique clothing collections ranged from the Japanese technique of Shibori to the vibrant culture of Colombia, strong women, coffee, and even pencil shavings. Other influences included the fluidity and movement of water, colorful birds, functionalism, drag performers, and one student's experience of heritage and identity as a Chinese-Indonesian. "It is so interesting to discover the possibilities that this school gives to everyone, the materials, everything is amazing. The students have big possibilities to work, to be free, to create." - Livia Stoianova / founding designer of On Aura Tout Vu "The visual and aesthetic developmental innovation is always so evident with the design students. I just love the creativity here and what Simon and the department in general does with the students, is always amazing to watch." - Andre Walker / designer Previous graduates from this program have proceeded to work for major fashion labels, including Alexander McQueen, Nike, Oscar de la Renta, Chloe, and Marc Jacobs upon graduating. WATCH the Fashion Show and MEET the Designers: https://www.academyart.edu/academics/fashion/graduation-fashion-show/ DOWNLOAD Runway Images https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/gFfpFePaHP School of Fashion Blog: www.fashionschooldaily.com Instagram: http://instagram.com/academyufashion About Academy of Art University Academy of Art University is the largest private university of art and design in the United States. Established in 1929, the Academy imposes a rigorous curriculum that requires the students to produce a portfolio of work that demonstrates a mastery of their field. About the School of Fashion Graduates have gone on to such companies as Abercrombie & Fitch, Adidas, Alexander McQueen, Azzedine Alaia, Banana Republic, BCBG Max Azria Group, Blanc de Chine, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Corso Como 10, Chloe, Diane von Furstenberg, Donna Karan, Gap, Kate Spade, Kiton, L.A.M.B., L'Ecole Lesage ParisAtelier de Broderie, Liz Claiborne, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, Martin Margiela, Martine Sitbon, Missoni, Nike, Nordstrom, The North Face, Old Navy, Oscar de la Renta, Phillip Lim, Pottery Barn, Ralph Lauren, Reebok, St. John, Tocca, Viktor & Rolf, and Williams-Sonoma. About School of Fashion Executive Director Simon Ungless, Executive Director of the School of Fashion, graduated from Central Saint Martins School of Art and Design in 1992 and was awarded the prestigious M.A. Degree in Fashion with Distinction. He collaborated with Alexander McQueen on the first 10 collections shown in London and New York, and personally introduced Sarah Burton, Creative Director of Alexander McQueen, to the late designer. His work experience spans fashion design, textile design, forecasting, brand development, and marketing for such clients as Givenchy, Paul Smith, and Versace. School of Fashion: www.academyart.edu/academics/fashion Gabriel Joshua Gima / 415.618.3802 / [email protected] SOURCE The Academy of Art University School of Fashion NETANYA, Israel, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Sensible Medical Innovations and Bayer successfully signed an agreement making Bayer, Sensible's largest customer in Europe. Bayer will use Sensible ReDS technology as an exploratory device-derived biomarker to monitor lung congestion in a clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03901729). The ReDS System is a wearable vest which quantifies the amount of lung fluid non-invasively. It can be used as a Point-of-Care device in hospital and clinic environments, as well as a monitoring system for the home setting, creating a Continuum of Care for patients with fluid management problems. Sensible currently concentrates on the heart failure (HF) market. HF is a serious and chronic medical condition in which the heart is unable to adequately fill with and eject blood. It is a global pandemic affecting at least 26 million people worldwide and is increasing in prevalence. HF health expenditures are considerable and will increase dramatically with the ageing population. Despite the significant advances in therapies and prevention, mortality and morbidity are still high, and quality of life poor. Almost 1 out of every 4 hospitalized patients (24%) are rehospitalized for heart failure within the 30-day post discharge period. Nearly 1 out of 2 patients (46%) are rehospitalized for heart failure within the 60-day post discharge period. Amir Ronen, CEO of Sensible Medical Innovation: "This is an exciting time for ReDS technology. ReDS is becoming the standard of care marker of lung fluid status for HF patients and we are happy to have Bayer as a new customer. ReDS is primarily being commercialized in the US and this is a major step forward in the European market, for the benefit of millions of heart failures patients". About Sensible Medical Innovations Sensible Medical Innovations has set out to develop a new standard of care in lung fluid management. Sensible developed the ReDS medical radar technology that stems from defense "see through wall" applications. The technology is well positioned to be a game changer in a wide range of applications, and become the next generation monitoring and imaging modality. Sensible Medical Innovations received FDA 510(k) clearance and CE mark for ReDS System, its non-invasive thoracic fluid status monitor. The product is intended for use by qualified health care practitioners and by patients, under the direction of a physician, in hospitals, hospital-type facilities and home environment, for the non-invasive monitoring and management of patients with fluid management problems in a variety of medically accepted clinical applications. ReDS is indicated for patients with fluid management problems, taking diuretic medication, living with Heart Failure, or recovering from Coronary Artery Disease related event. Contact Mr. Eran Kurman VP, Sales and Marketing Sensible Medical Innovations Inc Phone: +1 (917) 434-4202 Email: [email protected] www.sensible-medical.com SOURCE Sensible Medical Related Links http://www.sensible-medical.com Currently Klarna is the only alternative payment method in the US to offer consumers the ability to pay later everywhere in four equal installments with zero interest and fees, versus competitors' capabilities to shop with only specifically integrated merchants. While Klarna has its own strong network of affiliated merchants, it is now opening its service to consumers across all merchants via the Klarna App inclusive of those that may not employ an alternative payment option and those that may have a competitor program. Additional App features include the ability to create a cross-platform wishlist, price drop notifications, and exclusive fashion, beauty, and lifestyle shopping inspiration from editorial and influencer created content. These aspects aim to help shoppers today, considering that 67% of millennials do not have credit cards and spend up to 6 hours a week searching for fashion inspiration or price comparisons. The App aligns with Klarna's already established 'smoooth' payments and seamless integration into ecommerce platforms within a retailer's check out. It marks another way for consumers to access Klarna's popular product in the US - the ability the pay with short-term fixed installments. "The demand for personalized shopping and ease of transactions are no longer trends in retail - they are now requirements," said Michael Rouse, Chief Commercial Officer at Klarna. "Streamlining the digital shopping experience, from product searches to point of sale, allows consumers to not only take control of their purchases and on their terms it also enables diverse, curated styles. With that said, it is a perfect fit to launch the 'Shop Like a Queen' initiative to encourage Klarna's mission of consumer self-empowerment." On Saturday, May 25th this new App offering launched around RuPaul's DragCon LA 2019, which provided an amazing opportunity for fans to meet with world-famous RuPaul's Drag Race Queens, celebrities and stars. Klarna's 'Shop like a Queen' is partnering with icons Aquaria, Asia O'Hara, Kim Chi, Naomi Smalls, and Violet Chachki, who will showcase the benefits of shopping to create their looks with Klarna via App exclusive content and competitions. "Creating experiential engagement around the launch of the App is our goal," said David Sandstrom, Chief Marketing Officer at Klarna. "For one month, the queens will use the Klarna App to shop and create fierce custom looks and demonstrate the consumer benefits first-hand especially considering the wide range of elements needed. These are some of the most inspiring shoppers with such a strong point of view, all consumers should be able to achieve their own self-expression in an inspiring, accessible way and we simply aim to make that experience a joy. The visual world of the queen community resonates with the Klarna brand, as well as their hugely loyal and engaged following align perfectly with our approach." "When it comes to creating a drag look, it's like solving a puzzle," said Drag Queen Icon, Kim Chi. "There are so many pieces from so many different stores - wigs, shoes, and duct tape - it's a lot of time and work to go from one place to the next. Klarna lets me get all the pieces I need from one place with the App and from any store, so then I can put it together and help me complete my fabulous puzzle!" Culminating on June 28th, the smoooth looks created over the month will be revealed during a special New York City Pride show where the five Queens will perform exclusively together. The show will also be live streamed on the Klarna App. Additional activations and events will take place during the Columbus, Ohio Pride Festival on June 15th. Download the Klarna App to 'Shop like a Queen' via Google Play and Apple itunes. For more information, visit www.klarna.com . Follow along with the Queens through the month of June to get exclusive updates and content from #ShopLikeAQueen @klarna.usa @ageofaquaria @asiaoharaland @kimchi_chic @naomismalls @violetchachki About Klarna Klarna is a leading global payments provider that's revolutionizing the payment experience for shoppers and merchants alike. Founded in Stockholm, Sweden, in 2005, Klarna gives consumers the option to pay now, pay later or over time offering a trusted, frictionless and smoooth checkout experience. Klarna now works with 130,000 merchants including Adidas, Sephora ASOS, Nike, Sonos, IKEA, H&M and JD Sports, to offer payment solutions to users across Europe and North America. Klarna has 2,500 employees and is active in 14 countries. SOURCE Klarna Related Links https://www.klarna.com CHICAGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the new market research report "Single Loop Controller Market Type, Display Type (LCD, LED), Panel Cutout Size, Application (Oil & Gas Plants, Petrochemical Plants, Iron & Steel Plants, Power Plants, Chemical Plants), and Geography - Global Forecast to 2024", published by MarketsandMarkets, the Single Loop Controller Market was valued at USD 94 million in 2018 and is expected to reach USD 103 million by 2024, at a CAGR of 1.4% from 2019 to 2024. Changing energy trends, increasing demand for unconventional energy sources, booming power sector, and growing investments toward power generation projects drive the growth of the market. Ask for PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=12690310 Temperature Controller to hold the largest market share of the single loop controller market between 2019 and 2024 The demand for single loop temperature controllers is expected to grow at the highest CAGR between 2019 and 2024. The reason behind the high growth rate of temperature controllers is their extensive usage across several industries such as oil & gas, petrochemicals, food & beverages, and power plants. The growth of the single loop temperature controller market is also fueled by factors such as their ability to improve process efficiency, minimize waste, and flexible communication options and the introduction of hybrid temperature controllers as an alternative to a PLC device. Oil & Gas plant to grow at the highest CAGR for single loop controller between 2019 and 2024 In oil & gas plants, safety and reliability are crucial factors. In these plants, many operations are performed simultaneously; all these operations need to be planned, scheduled, executed, and monitored on time. Hence, companies operating in the oil & gas industry are always looking for new ways to meet the increasing energy needs, cutting down their operating costs, and enhance the overall efficiency of the plant. The market for single loop controllers used in oil & gas plants is expected to record the highest CAGR during the forecast period. North America to hold the major share of the single loop controller market in 2019 Rising demand for industrial control and factory automation solutions owing to the increasing adoption of automation in industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food & beverages, automotive, and aerospace & defense drives the demand for single loop controllers in North America. The need for tracking and monitoring real-time data, making industrial processes more visible, and managing production activities effectively is surging the demand for automation by industries in this region to enhance their production efficiency and reduce operational expenditure. Technologically, North America is one of the most advanced regions that use automation in the manufacturing process to produce goods in bulk quantities. Browse in-depth TOC on "Single Loop Controller Market" 37 Tables 39 Figures 112 Pages Request Sample pages of the Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=12690310 The major players in the single loop controller market include ABB (Switzerland), Honeywell (US), WEST Control Solutions (UK), Sure Controls (UK), Eurotherm (UK), Yokogawa (Japan), OMRON (Japan), Gefran (Italy), Mitsubishi (Tokyo), Azbil Corporation (Japan), PSG Plastic Service GmbH (Europe), and Carotek (US) among others. Please Explore Relevant Reports: Industrial Control and Factory Automation Market by Solution (SCADA, PLC, DCS, MES, PLM, PAM, Functional Safety), Component (Industrial Robots, Industrial 3D Printing, Control Valves, Machine Vision, HMI), Industry and Geography - Global Forecast to 2024 Smart Factory Market by Technology (DCS, PLC, MES, ERP, SCADA, PAM, HMI, PLM), Component (Sensors, Industrial Robots, Machine Vision Systems, Industrial 3D Printing), Industry, and Geography - Global Forecast to 2024 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: [email protected] Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/single-loop-controller-market.asp Visit Our Web Site: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com SOURCE MarketsandMarkets MIAMI, May 27, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Speedcast International Limited (ASX: SDA), the world's most trusted provider of remote communication and IT solutions, today announced it will provide connectivity services for 23 rural courts in Colombia with CenturyLink, a local partner. Speedcast and CenturyLink are providing connectivity services for the Superior Council of the Judiciary (SCJ), an institution within Colombia's judicial branch responsible for administration and other tasks. Speedcast will use integrated VSAT and MPLS technology to provide end-users with a hybrid, multipurpose network for services and solutions such as internet, video conferencing, voice, and IP PBX. Speedcast with CenturyLink will provide the courts with 6/3 Mbps 13:1 contention links. The project with SCJ will provide connectivity for rural courts in Choco, Putumayo, Guainia, Vaupes Meta, Puerto Carreno, Leticia and Vichada. "We worked closely with the SCJ to develop a robust, high-quality service for its rural courts," said Erwan Emilian, EVP Enterprise & Emerging Markets, at Speedcast. "Overcoming the digital divide goes beyond merely making services available to underserved locations for content, education, and commerce. The connectivity services that we provide to CenturyLink also help these remote towns uphold justice and fair governance." "These days, connectivity and speed is expected, even in rural areas," said the IT Director at SCJ. "That's why it's important that our judicial branch uses high-quality, reliable connectivity services. We chose Speedcast for their fast deployment and high level of service." About Speedcast International Limited Speedcast International Ltd (ASX: SDA) is the world's largest remote communications and IT services provider. The company delivers critical communications solutions through its multi-access technology, multi-band and multi-orbit network of 80+ satellites and an interconnecting global terrestrial network, bolstered by extensive local support from 40+ countries. Speedcast is uniquely positioned as a strategic partner, tailoring communications, IT and digital solutions to meet customer needs and enable business transformation. The company provides managed information services with differentiated technology offerings, including cybersecurity, crew welfare, content solutions, data and voice applications, IoT solutions and network systems integration services. With a passionate customer focus and a strong safety culture, Speedcast serves more than 3,200 customers in over 140 countries in sectors such as Maritime, Energy, Mining, Enterprise, Media, Cruise, Humanitarian and Government. Learn more at www.speedcast.com. Speedcast is a trademark and registered trademark of Speedcast International Limited. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective owners. 2019 Speedcast International Limited. All rights reserved. Contact Information: Toni Lee Rudnicki Vice President, Global Marketing Speedcast International Ltd [email protected] +1-832-668-2634 SOURCE Speedcast International Limited Related Links http://speedcast.com VANCOUVER, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - StillCanna Inc. (CSE: STIL) ("STIL" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that further to its press release dated March 28, 2019, it has signed a definitive agreement to supply Bioscience Enterprises of California with up to C$36,000,000 worth of CBD Isolate. "We are extremely pleased to formalize our relationship with StillCanna," stated Richard Parker President of Biosciences Enterprises, "not a day goes by that our firm isn't looking for a company like StillCanna, but finding a knowledgeable seed to shelf CBD manufacturer in this young industry is extremely rare. With access to their own biomass and years of extraction expertise StillCanna makes a perfect partner for us today and into the future." To accelerate its product delivery, the Company is implementing a two-stage extraction plan for Poland. Stage one will consist of equipment engineered to optimize the production of CBD Isolate. With permitting in place and equipment ordered for Poland, it is anticipated that the initial line will produce and ship CBD Isolate Q4 of 2019 allowing the Company to begin fulfilling its obligations under the Biosciences agreement. "One of the many benefits in our acquisition of Olimax in Poland is its infrastructure including buildings and existing licenses to extract CBD. By having these licenses in place, Olimax alleviates what could be a lengthy bureaucratic process to obtain such licenses. The purchase and installation of equipment is not the delaying factor in building an extraction facility in Europe, it's the time required to obtain the many license and permits to manufacture CBD," explained Jason Dussault Chief Executive Officer of StillCanna, "the Company is ecstatic about being able to hit the ground in Poland running." Stage two of the Company's extraction plan in Poland is a brand new, ground up, GMP certified CBD extraction facility engineered to produce over 80 million grams of CBD per year. The Company has budgeted an initial C$8.5 million for construction and equipment. Completion of stage two in Poland is expected to be completed in 10 to 14 months. Since the Company's initial financing in October 28, 2018 it has been focused on the building and completion of its Romanian extraction facility. Originally, the Company had anticipated a 12 to 14 month build to be fully operational. The Company remains on time and on budget. Over the past 7 months the Company has: Secure the physical location; Completed all architectural drawings, electrical drawing and fire plan; Updated the architectural drawings to be GMP complaint; Ordered, installed and wired all the equipment required to produce CBD; Processed tons of hemp and have stored tons of flower waiting final processing; Purchased and received all laboratory equipment for testing and chromatography; Completed construction on a minus 26 degree, 400 square foot walk in freezer; Secured leading Chemists and PhDs to oversee production; Built GMP compliant facility including special floors, ceiling, walls, lights doors and ventilation; Achieved a major milestone by receiving final approval from the Environmental Protection Agency; Completed our GMP Standard Operating Procedures The Company's equipment and personnel have been in place in Romania for many months as we anxiously await our final permits to manufacture CBD. The Company expects that it will receive all required licenses and permits and be in full production within its original 12-month timeline. The Company is waiting for certain approvals including, but not limited to: The Romanian General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations; A Geotechnical Report; Health Ministry Approval; and Final Fire Inspection. The Company expects to receive all remaining approvals required to be obtained in its normal course of business without complication. The Company looks forward to manufacturing and shipping CBD to meet the needs of its current and future partners. The Company is also pleased to announce 1,800,000 stock options have been granted to certain officers and consultants pursuant to the Company's stock option plan. The options are exercisable after three months from the grant date for a period of five years at a price of $1.23 per share. About StillCanna Inc. StillCanna Inc. (CSE: STIL) www.StillCanna.com is a Canadian early-stage life sciences company focused on large scale CBD extraction in Europe. The Company believes its proprietary intellectual property allows it to extract CBD at a lower cost. The Company has signed an initial extraction contract in Europe to be the exclusive extractor for Dragonfly BioSciences LLC, a United Kingdom-based supplier of CBD. The Company also recently completed the acquisition of Olimax NT SP. Z .O.O, which is expected to increase the Company's market share in the European CBD industry. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements: This release includes certain statements and information that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, including statements regarding the expectation that Poland will produce and ship CBD Isolate prior to Q4 of 2019, the stage two construction in Poland being expected to complete within 10 to 14 months, that the Company expects to receive all required licenses and permits without complication for its Romanian facility within its original 12 month timeline and that the Olimax acquisition is expected to increase the Company's market share in Europe. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should" or "would" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this press release, including that Poland will produce and ship CBD Isolate prior to Q4 of 2019, stage two construction in Poland will be completed within 10 to 14 months, that the Company will receive all licenses and permits without complication for its Romanian facility within its original 12 month timeline and that the Olimax acquisition will increase the Company's market share in Europe. Although the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect, and the forward-looking statements in this release are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Such risk factors may include, among others, that Poland will not produce and ship CBD Isolate prior to Q4 of 2019 or at all, stage two construction in Poland will not be completed within 10 to 14 months or at all, that the Company will not receive all licenses and permits without complication for its Romanian facility within its original 12 month timeline and that the Olimax acquisition will not result in an increase in the Company's market share in Europe. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. SOURCE StillCanna Inc. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunniva Inc. ("Sunniva", the "Company", "we", "our" or "us") (CSE: SNN) (OTCQB: SNNVF), a North American provider of cannabis products and services plans to release its results for the first quarter 2019, after market close on Thursday May 30, 2019. The Company's executive management will discuss the results during a conference call on Friday May 31, 2019 at 11:00 am Eastern Time / 8:00 am Pacific Time. To participate in the call please dial 1-800-319-4610, or (604) 638-5340. An audio replay will be available shortly after the call by dialing 1-855-669-9658 or (604) 674-8052 and entering code 3294. The replay will be available for two weeks following the call. For more information please visit: www.sunniva.com To be added to the Sunniva email distribution list please register at www.sunniva.com/email-alerts. 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. About Sunniva Inc. Sunniva, through its subsidiaries, is a vertically integrated cannabis company operating in the world's two largest cannabis markets California and Canada. In Canada, Sunniva's wholly owned subsidiary NHS operates medical cannabis clinics that provide educational and clinical services to patients. In California, Sunniva is focused on creating sustainable premium cannabis brands supported by our large-scale, purpose-built cGMP designed greenhouse and extraction facilities. We offer a steadfast commitment to safety and quality assurance providing cannabis products free from pesticides, which positions Sunniva in California as a leading provider of safe, high quality, reproducible products at scale. Through production from Phase One of our strategically positioned 325,000 square foot high technology greenhouse which is nearing completion and our fully operational Extraction Facility in California, we are launching Sunniva branded products in various product categories and price points including flower, pre-rolls, vape cartridges and premium concentrates. Sunniva branded products will be showcased within our flagship dispensary to be located at the greenhouse and our in-house marketing and distribution team will strive to ensure the placement of Sunniva branded products at licensed dispensaries throughout the state. Sunniva's management and board of directors have a proven track record for creating significant shareholder value both in the healthcare and biotech industries. This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, statements regarding the Company's operations and growth opportunities, the Company's plans to launch Sunniva-branded products in various product categories including high quality distillate, premium concentrates, vape cartridges, flower, pre-rolls, and beverages, which will be showcased within the Company's flagship dispensary, the placement of Sunniva-branded products at licensed dispensaries throughout California, are "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, events or developments to be materially different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, the risk factors included in the Sunniva's continuous disclosure documents available on www.sedar.com. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Although Sunniva has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other risk factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements. Sunniva assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, even if new information becomes available as a result of future events, new information or for any other reason except as required by law. Company Contacts: Sunniva Inc. Dr. Anthony Holler Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Phone: (866) 786-6482 Investor Contact: Media Contact: Phil Carlson / Erika Kay Katelyn Tumino / Tony Forde KCSA Strategic Communications KCSA Strategic Communications Phone: (212) 896-1233 Phone: (212) 896-1252 Email: [email protected] / [email protected] Email: [email protected] / [email protected] SOURCE Sunniva Inc. Related Links http://www.sunniva.com MRI operates MRI Network, one of the largest search and recruitment organizations in the world and comprised of nearly 400 independent search and recruitment firms. Over the course of its more than 50-year history, MRI has provided to thousands of independent search and recruitment firms an unparalleled array of services, including learning and talent development, organizational development, marketing support and content, strategic planning, performance management, technology support, and contract staffing backoffice outsourcing. In addition, through MRI Network, MRI provides member firms with a unique forum for collaborative learning, mentoring, benchmarking and rewards, further contributing to their success potential. Bert Miller said of the transaction: "Protis Global has been a member of MRINetwork since 1995, and, today, is one of its ten largest members. I understand intimately the challenges faced by independent search and recruitment firms in our rapidly changing industry. I also have direct experience and appreciation for the leadership that MRI demonstrates in enabling such firms to overcome those challenges, through its unique network-centric service model. I am excited to partner with the MRI team to expand that model in support of both our existing members and the broader market." "We believe this transaction is an excellent outcome for MRI and CDI," added Michael Castleman, President & CEO of CDI. "Bert brings a unique combination of experience, thought leadership and energy to MRI." In his new role as President & Chief Executive Officer of MRI, Miller will dedicate his professional time to MRI. He will be supported by Nancy Halverson, who will continue to serve as General Manager, as well as the rest of the talented MRI team. Day-to-day management responsibility for Protis Global will be assumed by newly appointed and promoted to General Manager Michael J. Bitar, working with a talented and long-tenured leadership team in Miami. About MRINetwork : Management Recruiters International, Inc., branded as MRINetwork, is one of the largest executive search and recruitment organizations in the world. MRINetwork has approximately 400 offices spanning four continents. Visit MRINetwork at www.mrinetwork.com. About CDI Corporation : CDI seeks to create extraordinary outcomes with its clients by delivering solutions based on highly skilled and professional talent. Through its EdgeRock Technology Partners and CDI Engineering Solutions business units, CDI provides engineering, information technology, and staffing solutions to clients in multiple industries, including chemicals, energy, infrastructure, and technology, as well as municipal and state governments. Learn more at www.cdicorp.com. About AE Industrial Partners : AE Industrial Partners is a leading private equity firm with more than $2.7 billion of assets under management, including equity commitments from Fund II, specializing in control investments in aerospace and defense, power generation, and specialty industrial businesses. AE Industrial Partners invests in market-leading companies that can benefit from its deep operating experience, industry knowledge, and relationships. Learn more at www.aeroequity.com. SOURCE MRINetwork Related Links http://www.mrinetwork.com LISHUI, China, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Tantech Holdings Ltd. (TANH) ("Tantech" or the "Company"), a leading clean energy company in China, today announced that it plans to hold its 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders on July 27, 2019, at 10:00 A.M., local time, at 9th Floor, Block A, FPI, No. 459 Qianmo Rd, Binjiang District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, PRC. Shareholders as of the record date, close of business on June 24, 2019, will be entitled to vote at the meeting. Although the Company does not provide its shareholders with any right to put any proposals before annual general meetings, any shareholder may submit a proposal to the Company for consideration of inclusion in a proxy statement. The Company has determined that June 10, 2019 should be the deadline for receipt of proposals. Such proposals by mails should be delivered to: Tantech Holdings Ltd, c/o Zhejiang Forest Bamboo Technology Co., Ltd., No. 10 Cen Shan Road, Shuige Industrial Zone, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, PRC 323000, Attention: Corporate Secretary. Proposals by email should be sent to [email protected]. About Tantech Holdings Ltd. Established in 2001 and headquartered in Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, China, Tantech Holdings Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, develops and manufactures bamboo-based charcoal products in China and internationally. It operates through three segments: Consumer Products, Trading, and electronic vehicle. The Company provides its products for industrial energy applications, as well as household cooking, heating, purification, agricultural, and cleaning uses. The company also exports its bamboo vinegar, bamboo charcoal purification products. For more information about Tantech Holdings Ltd., please visit: http://ir.tantech.cn Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, product and service demand and acceptance, changes in technology, economic conditions, the impact of competition and pricing, government regulations, and other risks contained in reports filed by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All such forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, and whether made by or on behalf of the Company, are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and any other cautionary statements which may accompany the forward-looking statements. In addition, the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. For more information please contact: Tantech Holdings Ltd. Ms. Nancy Wang IR Manager +86-578-261-2869 [email protected] SOURCE Tantech Holdings Ltd. CHICAGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ --Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. (NYSE: TDS) and TDS' subsidiary United States Cellular Corporation (NYSE: USM) today announced the following financial leadership appointments effective June 24, 2019: TDS Peter L. Sereda, currently serving as senior vice president of finance at TDS, has been appointed to executive vice president and chief financial officer at TDS. Sereda will oversee the following TDS functions: accounting and reporting, treasury and capital markets, tax compliance and planning, and financial analysis and budgeting. Sereda joined TDS in 1998 as vice president and treasurer. U.S. Cellular Steven T. Campbell, currently serving as executive vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer, will transition to executive vice president and chief administrative officer at U.S. Cellular. In this role, Campbell will provide oversight for the chief financial officer function and will provide direct leadership for the strategy, financial planning and analysis, regulatory affairs, and supply chain activities at U.S. Cellular. Campbell joined U.S. Cellular in 2005 as vice president and controller. He is also on the board of directors for U.S. Cellular. Douglas W. Chambers, currently serving as senior vice president of finance at TDS and chief accounting officer at TDS and U.S. Cellular, will become senior vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer of U.S. Cellular, succeeding Steven T. Campbell as chief financial officer. Chambers will report to Campbell and be responsible for U.S. Cellular's accounting and financial reporting, as well as credit and real estate services. Chambers previously served as vice president and controller for U.S. Cellular and as vice president and controller for TDS. He has held a number of positions in the finance organization since joining TDS in 2007. TDS and U.S. Cellular Anita J. Kroll will remain vice president and controller at TDS, and will succeed Chambers as chief accounting officer at TDS and U.S. Cellular. Kroll will continue to be responsible for corporate accounting, internal and external reporting, technical accounting, tax accounting, and enterprise-wide shared services. Kroll joined TDS in 2011. Prior to her current role, Kroll served as director of accounting and reporting for TDS and held a project role in accounting policy. "Peter Sereda is an outstanding leader for our financial organization," said LeRoy T. Carlson Jr., TDS president and CEO. "Through his thought leadership, management and guidance as chief financial officer, TDS will further enhance its strong financial foundation that provides stability to help the growth of the TDS Family of Businesses." "Anita has shown her extensive financial knowledge and strong leadership skills in managing our financial and accounting functions," said Carlson. "I'm confident she will excel in the additional responsibilities as chief accounting officer for TDS and U.S. Cellular." "I sincerely thank Doug Chambers for his exceptional leadership at TDS," said Carlson. "I am pleased he's accepted this opportunity to advance his career within the TDS family of companies, and am confident he will bring his strong talent to bear in his new role at U.S. Cellular." "These moves at U.S. Cellular will allow us to spend more time on strategic matters while continuing to grow and develop our leadership team," said Kenneth R. Meyers, president and CEO of U.S. Cellular. About TDS Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. (TDS), a Fortune 1000 company, provides wireless; cable and wireline broadband, TV and voice; and hosted and managed services to approximately 6 million connections nationwide through its businesses, U.S. Cellular, TDS Telecom, BendBroadband and OneNeck IT Solutions. Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Chicago, TDS employed 9,400 people as of March 31, 2019. About U.S. Cellular U.S. Cellular is the fifth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier is building a stronger network with the latest 5G technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers' lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. To learn more about U.S. Cellular, visit one of its retail stores or uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with U.S. Cellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp. SOURCE Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. and United States Cellular Corporation Today, TI surprised the first winner of the contest, Calculus teacher Glenn Marr from Park Vista Community High School, just outside of Palm Beach, Florida. High school senior Faith Southwick, who is the first person in her school's history to receive an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, nominated Mr. Marr for inspiring her love of math and helping to facilitate her military career. "I can honestly say that I may have never chosen this path, or been able to succeed, without the mentorship of Mr. Marr. His mathematical abilities, which are remarkable on their own, are far outweighed by his passion for teaching calculus," wrote Southwick. Having dreamed of serving her country since she was 11 years old, Southwick plans to pursue a nuclear engineering degree at the academy. "For the next 20 years of my life, I will be using the momentum created by my two years in Mr. Marr's class, and my passion for math, to help defend the United States. I am extremely grateful to Mr. Marr for inspiring me, and others, in the way he has and I hope to inspire others in the future in a similar way." For his prize, Texas Instruments will fly Mr. Marr to San Francisco, California this summer, along with his wife, for a tour of the Exploratorium, a renowned collection of exhibits that draw together science, art, and human perception. "I can't believe it, this is a dream come true, definitely the best day I've ever had as a teacher," said Marr, who has been teaching mathematics at Park Vista Community High School for the past 15 years and has taught Southwick for the past 2 years. "The fact that she is going to be able to go to the US Naval Academy and I was a small part of that, it's unbelievable." The Exploratorium donated the tours to help fulfill Mr. Marr's math wish. There will be four additional "wish" winners through September. Help spread the love of math by recognizing and giving back to the person who helped you build a relationship with numbers. Honor them by sharing your math story for a chance to help them win a math wish at: https://education.ti.com/mathlove. About Texas Instruments: Education Technology, a business of Texas Instruments, provides a wide range of tools connecting the classroom experience with real-world applications, helping students and teachers to explore mathematics and science interactively. TI's products and services are tested vigorously against recognized third-party research, which shows that the effective use of graphing calculators improves the mathematical skills of students and their attitudes toward mathematics. For more information, visit www.education.ti.com. Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) is a global semiconductor design and manufacturing company that develops analog ICs and embedded processors. By employing the world's brightest minds, TI creates innovations that shape the future of technology. TI is helping more than 100,000 customers transform the future, today. Learn more at www.ti.com. SOURCE Texas Instruments Related Links http://www.ti.com Stock Market Symbols GIB (NYSE) GIB.A (TSX) www.cgi.com/newsroom Company helps advance healthcare to leverage eGovernment best practices and domain expertise to continue the digital transformation of CMS's Health Plan Management System FAIRFAX, VA, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - CGI (NYSE: GIB) (TSX: GIB.A) announced it has been awarded a five-year contract by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service (CMS) to enhance and maintain an optimized cloud environment for the Health Plan Management System (HPMS), CMS's central data repository for Medicare Advantage and Part D health care plans. The company will leverage its eGovernment best practices and long-term partnership to help innovate delivery on behalf of beneficiaries and ensure that the system is monitored and optimized on a continuous basis. Worth over $60 million, the contract extends CGI's partnership with HPMSwhich dates back to the creation of the system in 2004for an additional five years and represents the first full and open project awarded under CMS's Strategic Partners Acquisition Readiness Contract (SPARC). HPMS is a web-enabled, robust, portal for 14,500 users, fully accessible to those with disabilities (Section 508-compliant). CGI has historically delivered HPMS software development and operations support that annually supports 5,000+ active health plans, 1,000+ contract applications and 400+ formularies. With a broad user base comprised of internal staff, private health and drug plans, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and more, AAHPMS acts as the main conduit of health plan-related information into CMS. HPMS helps to manage, monitor and track the annual lifecycle activities required by CMS for the successful vetting, signup and execution of every Medicare Advantage and Part D plan. "CGI has a deep appreciation for the critical nature of HPMS and we are proud to extend our partnership with CMS on the system," said CGI Federal President Tim Hurlebaus. "We believe that our experience and proposed strategies will continue to drive the technology transformation of HPMS." Under the agreement, CGI is tasked to build a robust and dynamic reporting solution to ensure that 26 applications within HPMS operate effectively and efficiently and optimize an Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud environment while simultaneously deploying continuous integration and continuous delivery. Additionally, CGI will help HPMS remain compliant with all federal requirements, developing and deploying enhancements using both Agile and hybrid iterative approaches. CGI will also modernize a subset of HPMS applications to a more application programming interface (API)/microservices-based architecture, using open source technologies. About CGI Federal CGI Federal Inc. is a wholly-owned U.S. operating subsidiary of CGI Inc., dedicated to partnering with federal agencies to provide solutions for defense, civilian, healthcare and intelligence missions. Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world. With approximately 77,000 consultants and professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from IT and business consulting to systems integration, outsourcing services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. With Fiscal 2018 reported revenue of C$11.5 billion, CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com. Forward-looking information and statements This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other applicable United States safe harbors. All such forward-looking information and statements are made and disclosed in reliance upon the safe harbor provisions of applicable Canadian and United States securities laws. Forward-looking information and statements include all information and statements regarding CGI's intentions, plans, expectations, beliefs, objectives, future performance, and strategy, as well as any other information or statements that relate to future events or circumstances and which do not directly and exclusively relate to historical facts. Forward-looking information and statements often but not always use words such as "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "anticipate", "foresee", "plan", "predict", "project", "aim", "seek", "strive", "potential", "continue", "target", "may", "might", "could", "should", and similar expressions and variations thereof. These information and statements are based on our perception of historic trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other assumptions, both general and specific, that we believe are appropriate in the circumstances. Such information and statements are, however, by their very nature, subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, of which many are beyond the control of CGI, and which give rise to the possibility that actual results could differ materially from our expectations expressed in, or implied by, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not restricted to: risks related to the market such as the level of business activity of our clients, which is affected by economic conditions, and our ability to negotiate new contracts; risks related to our industry such as competition and our ability to attract and retain qualified employees, to develop and expand our services, to penetrate new markets, and to protect our intellectual property rights; risks related to our business such as risks associated with our growth strategy, including the integration of new operations, financial and operational risks inherent in worldwide operations, foreign exchange risks, income tax laws, our ability to negotiate favorable contractual terms, to deliver our services and to collect receivables, and the reputational and financial risks attendant to cybersecurity breaches and other incidents; as well as other risks identified or incorporated by reference in this press release, in CGI's annual and quarterly MD&A and in other documents that we make public, including our filings with the Canadian Securities Administrators (on SEDAR at www.sedar.com) and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (on EDGAR at www.sec.gov). Unless otherwise stated, the forward-looking information and statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and CGI disclaims any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. While we believe that our assumptions on which these forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are based were reasonable as at the date of this press release, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking information or statements. Furthermore, readers are reminded that forward-looking information and statements are presented for the sole purpose of assisting investors and others in understanding our objectives, strategic priorities and business outlook as well as our anticipated operating environment. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Further information on the risks that could cause our actual results to differ significantly from our current expectations may be found in the section titled "Risk Environment" of CGI's annual and quarterly MD&A, which is incorporated by reference in this cautionary statement. We also caution readers that the above-mentioned risks and the risks disclosed in CGI's annual and quarterly MD&A and other documents and filings are not the only ones that could affect us. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial could also have a material adverse effect on our financial position, financial performance, cash flows, business or reputation. SOURCE CGI Inc. Related Links www.cgi.com SAN FRANCISCO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Tivic Health Systems today announced the expansion of its executive team with the appointments of Subinoy Das, MD as Chief Medical Officer and Michael Nketiah as Vice President of Quality and Regulatory Affairs. Earlier this year, Tivic Health received 510(k) clearance from the FDA for ClearUP Sinus Pain Relief, a small, handheld device that uses gentle microcurrent waveforms to provide sinus pain relief to the 40+ million Americans suffering from allergic rhinitis (hay fever). As Chief Medical Officer, Subinoy Das, MD, a leading otolaryngologist from Ohio, will provide clinical insights and perspectives to facilitate product development and adoption. Michael Nketiah, Vice President of Quality and Regulatory Affairs, will be responsible for Tivic Health's compliance efforts, working with regulatory bodies and refining research protocols. "We are delighted to have Dr. Das and Mr. Nketiah join our team as we work to bring ClearUP to market late this summer," said Jennifer Ernst, CEO of Tivic Health. "Dr. Das brings to our team deep expertise and business savvy in sinus health care. Mr. Nketiah's domestic and international experience in quality and regulatory affairs will be invaluable as we chart our growth." "I've been impressed with the product's efficacy as well as the dynamic Tivic Health team and look forward to breaking new ground with ClearUP and the Tivic Health team," said Dr. Das. Mr. Nketiah said, "I prefer companies that have a deep respect for and understanding of quality and have found that mindset at Tivic Health. The company was particularly interesting because they are in the forefront of cutting-edge medicine, e.g. neurostimulation." Subinoy Das, MD, FACS, FARS is the CEO and Medical Director at the U.S. Institute for Advanced Sinus Care and Research in Ohio. He is the former director of the Ohio State University Sinus and Allergy Center and Assistant Professor at Ohio State University. Dr. Das is a U.S. board-certified otolaryngologist, Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and Fellow of the American Rhinologic Society, where he received a Presidential Citation in 2015. He is a former Research Associate of the Center of Microbial Pathogenesis at the Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital. Prior to joining Tivic Health, Michael Nketiah served as VP in the areas of Quality and Regulatory for other medical technology companies such as SIRIS Medical, ClearPath Surgical Inc., and Previvo Genetics, Inc. He also served as Senior Director of Quality and Regulatory Affairs at PROCEPT BioRobotics. About ClearUP Sinus Pain Relief ClearUP, a first-in-class bioelectronic device is an over-the-counter (OTC) device that provides consumers with a simple, drug-free option to relieve sinus pain caused by various environmental allergies such as dust, mold, pollens and pet dander. It delivers low current electrical waveforms that stimulate the nerves under the skin to help relieve sinus pain. Its state-of-the-art technology guides the user to target the most optimal treatment points. ClearUP will launch an Indiegogo campaign in mid-June and will be available late summer for $149. About Tivic Health Systems Inc. Tivic Health Systems Inc. is a bioelectronic device company dedicated to developing microcurrent therapy solutions for chronic diseases and conditions. Founded in 2016, Tivic Health is part of a $6.2B global neuromodulation industry and is dedicated to harnessing the power of neuromodulation for home use products, empowering people to improve their health and quality of life. Visit www.tivichealth.com @TivicHealth www.facebook.com/TivicHealth SOURCE Tivic Health Systems Inc. The two companies will work together to launch Loopring Protocol 3.0 within TokenMarket's upcoming decentralised securities exchanges, located in Europe and the Middle East. While current decentralised exchange speeds allow approximately two trades per second to be settled on the Ethereum blockchain, Loopring Protocol 3.0 allows up to 525/sec by using zero-knowledge proofs, dramatically increasing throughput and improving the speed and cost of TokenMarket's decentralised exchanges. Founded in 2017, Loopring is an open-sourced protocol for building decentralised exchanges and supporting infrastructure. It has been designed to give users and developers multiple benefits, such as non-custodial settlement, order sharing, anti-front running, and the ability to be deployed on multiple smart contract platforms. Protocol 3.0 has focused on providing scalability without sacrificing the security guarantees offered by public blockchains. It does so by ensuring that only a small amount of information requires on-chain verification, with most activity being compressed into proofs. It thereby allows decentralized exchanges to offer better safety, with comparable speeds previously only found on centralized exchanges. Upon the announcement, TokenMarket CTO and Co-founder Mikko Ohtamaa stated: "Using Loopring Protocol 3.0 will enable our users to have even more protection on our decentralised security token exchange. The groundbreaking protocol Loopring has developed, combined with our decentralized platform, will give users the freedom that centralised exchanges simply do not have. I am excited to be working closely alongside the Loopring team as things develop." Concurrently, Loopring Founder and CEO Daniel Wang said in a statement: "Our mission is to support the future of value exchange, and we're thrilled that TokenMarket has chosen to integrate and build upon Loopring to power their platform. TokenMarket has ambitious plans regarding security token trading venues, which is a sector Loopring has developed infrastructure for since version 2 of our protocol. We're optimistic their experienced team will excel." About TokenMarket TokenMarket is a global investment platform that utilises its blockchain-based platform to enable rapid growth companies to raise capital faster. The platform has assisted over 30 of the most innovative blockchain companies raise over 240 million in total, issuing digital tokens to over 250,000 investors. TokenMarket has achieved this by providing global, everyday investors access to early-stage opportunities alongside VCs and Angel investors. Further powering the platform are the upcoming securities exchanges in Malta and Dubai, encouraging faster liquidity in the market for security token offerings. For more information visit https://tokenmarket.net/ . About Loopring Loopring Foundation is a blockchain research organization focused on decentralized trading protocols. The open-source Loopring Protocol provides a fundamental building block for non-custodial exchanges (DEXs) and other applications that incorporate trustless token trading. Loopring 3.0 leverages zero-knowledge proofs, allowing for significant throughput increases while maintaining the security guarantees of the Ethereum blockchain. Loopring also offers an auction protocol called Oedax (Open-Ended Dutch Auction Exchange). For more information on the Loopring protocol, please visit: https://loopring.org/ and https://github.com/Loopring . Media Contact: For more information contact: Lawrence Chiu, TokenMarket [email protected] James Isola, Maitland [email protected] Tel: +44-(0)-207-379-5151 SOURCE TokenMarket SAN DIEGO, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Trucept Inc. (OTC Pink: TREP) Trucept Inc. has published its first quarter results for 2019. The Company earned a net profit of approximately $2 million for the period ending March 31. Trucept reported revenues of $2.03 million and a gross profit of $859 thousand. Compared to the previous year, there was a slight decrease in gross revenue from $2.1 million to $2.03 million. The gross profit for the prior year was $719 thousand. It increased to $859 thousand. Operating income remains consistent at $125 thousand compared to $126 thousand last year. Net income this year is $2 million, compared to $127 thousand. Trucept CEO Norman Tipton said the increase in Net Income is attributable to the settlement of outstanding debt. "In 2017 Trucept radically altered its business model to provide support to the PEO industry," Tipton said. "We believe our on-going positive numbers reflect the wisdom of that strategy." 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 Trucept Inc. Related Links http://www.trucept.com/ LONDON, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Pain Management Devices Market by Type (Neurostimulation Devices, Analgesic Infusion Pumps and Ablation Devices), by Application (Neuropathic Pain, Cancer Pain, Facial Pain & Migraine, Musculoskeletal Pain and Other Applications), Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast Market Definition: Pain management device are more widely used to manage acute and chronic pain in patients suffering from various health conditions, such as neurological disorders, cancer and musculoskeletal disorders. Pain management devices are gaining traction in the market owing to its ability that helps patients to do everyday activities, lowers the need for oral medications for pain, and improve the patient's quality life suffering from various diseased conditions. Market Overview and Trends The pain management devices market is growing at appreciable rate with booming healthcare sector. There are several disabilities caused by pain that is frustrating and usually a liability for patients as it hampers the normal efficacy or day-to-day life of human being. Pain management devices are usually designed to mitigate or eradicate such pains and specify patients a stress-free life. The global pain management devices market is banking on the aspect such as large patient pool and rising geriatric population that requires long term management of pain associated with them. The product upgradation and enhanced efficiency specially designed for the pain management or mainly for the remedy of the chronic pain are accelerating the market growth. Government initiative for pain management or pain rehabilitation centers have raised the demand for devices used for pain management, thereby driving the market growth. Download samples here: https://www.visiongain.com/report/global-pain-management-devices-market-2019-2029/#download_sampe_div Market Dynamics: Factors Influencing the Market Growth: Growing demand for long term pain management among the targeted population that include both geriatric as well as diseases patients. Adverse effects of intake of pain medication at longer duration. High Proven Efficacy for the use of Pain Management Devices for treating various chronic pains. Technological advancements in the development of novel pain management devices. Factors Restraining the Market Growth: High capital required for pain management devices and costly affair in the patients suffering from pain for longer duration. Dearth of pain specialists and a smaller number of pain clinics in many countries. To find out more about this report please contact Sara Peerun at [email protected] or refer to our website: https://www.visiongain.com/report/global-pain-management-devices-market-2019-2029 Market Segmentation 2019-2029: Type Neurostimulation Devices Market, 2019-2029 Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) Devices Market, 2019-2029 Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) Devices Market, 2019-2029 Analgesic Infusion Pumps Market, 2019-2029 High Use of Infusion Pumps in Post-Operative Pain Management Intrathecal Infusion Pumps External Infusion Pumps Ablation Devices Market, 2019-2029 RF Ablation Devices Cryoablation Devices Application Neuropathic Pain Market, 2019-2029 Cancer Pain Market, 2019-2029 Facial Pain & Migraine Market, 2019-2029 Musculoskeletal Pain Market, 2019-2029 Other Applications Market, 2019-2029 Geographic breakdown Focused regional forecasts and analysis explore the future opportunities: North America Market, 2019-2029 U.S. Market, 2019-2029 Canada Market, 2019-2029 Mexico Market, 2019-2029 Rest of North America Market, 2019-2029 Europe Market, 2019-2029 Germany Market, 2019-2029 UK Market, 2019-2029 France Market, 2019-2029 Spain Market, 2019-2029 Italy Market, 2019-2029 Rest of Europe Market, 2019-2029 Asia-Pacific Market, 2019-2029 China Market, 2019-2029 Japan Market, 2019-2029 India Market, 2019-2029 Australia Market, 2019-2029 Malaysia Market, 2019-2029 Rest of Asia Pacific Market, 2019-2029 LAMEA Market, 2019-2029 Brazil Market, 2019-2029 Argentina Market, 2019-2029 Turkey Market, 2019-2029 South Africa Market, 2019-2029 Rest of LAMEA Market, 2019-2029 Competitive Analysis: There are many companies operating in the market, however, number of players are entering in the market by developing more standardized and cost-effective products. Companies are strategically expanding their global presence and offering improved products across various sectors. Major Market Players: Medtronic PLC, ST. Jude Medical, Inc., Boston Scientific Corporation, Hospira, Inc. (A Subsidiary of Pfizer Inc.), Halyard Health, Inc., Smiths Medical, B. Braun Melsungen AG Neurotech Na, Inc. (A Subsidiary of Theragen LLC), Becton, Dickinson and Company and Nevro Corp. Did you know that we also offer a report add-on service? Email [email protected] to discuss any customized research needs you may have. Companies covered in the report include: Autonomic Technologies B. Braun Melsungen AG Baxter International Inc. Becton, Dickinson and Company BioControl Medical Ltd. BioDelivery Sciences International BioElectronics Corporation Bio-Medical Research (BMR) Ltd. Boston Scientific Corporation Codman and Shurtleff, Inc. DJO Global LLC ElectroCore Endo Pharmaceuticals Flowonix Medical Inc. Halyard Health, Inc. Hospira, Inc. (A Subsidiary of Pfizer Inc.) I-Flow Corp. ImThera Medical Innovative Health Solutions Inspire Medical Systems Kimberly-Clark Corporation LivaNova (Cyberonics) Medical Devices Inc. Medtronic PLC NeuroMetrix NeuroMetrix, Inc. NeuroPace Neuros Medical NeuroSigma Neurotech Na, Inc. (A Subsidiary of Theragen LLC) Nevro Corp. Nevro Corporation Pain Management, Inc. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Smith's Medical Sorenson Medical Products Inc. SPR Therapeutics SPR Therapeutics ST. Jude Medical, Inc. Stryker Corporation Synapse Biomedical The Pressure Positive Co. Zynex Inc. To discuss this report please e-mail Sara Peerun on [email protected] SOURCE Visiongain MELBOURNE, Australia, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- A new revolutionary non-invasive embryo screening test will reduce miscarriages and the time it takes to achieve a healthy live birth for the one-in-six Australian couples affected by infertility. In a world-first scientific breakthrough, Australia's leading fertility scientists have developed an embryo DNA screening test that is non-invasive and will be available to more patients at a lower cost. The existing biopsy technique -- the standard across the world -- can only be used on the strongest embryos, meaning many embryos are never DNA tested. Embryos that do not contain the correct amount of chromosome pairs often result in miscarriage or a child born with a genetic abnormality. That risk increases rapidly when a woman gets older. Genetic testing allows those embryos to be identified before they are transferred back to the womb. It's a significant step forward in making IVF genetic testing more widely available. Monash IVF Group Medical Director Luk Rombauts said it's an exciting development for patients -- particularly those at a higher risk of miscarriage or failed pregnancy. "This has long been the holy grail for genetic testing as many embryos were not strong enough for a biopsy," says Professor Rombauts. "The current practice of pre-implantation genetic screening of embryos has seen improvements in pregnancy rates, but we felt there was a better way of screening that could be applied to more embryos." "Older patients who would benefit the most were missing out because most or all of their embryos were not suitable for the embryo biopsy -- with this new breakthrough these embryos can be screened, improving their chance of successful pregnancy." The new test -- developed by Monash IVF Group -- is non-invasive, allowing clinicians to perform the screening on embryos that were previously assessed as not strong enough for biopsy, but may still result in a healthy baby. Professor Rombauts said the key advantages of the new test are that it can be performed on more embryos for those patients that really need it, at a lower cost and without the need for an invasive surgical embryo biopsy. Monash IVF Group scientists found that as the embryo cells grow and divide, they secrete DNA into the culture medium in which they are growing. This sample can then be tested for abnormalities in chromosomes. "Without IVF many Australian families would simply not exist," says Professor Michelle Lane, who led the development of the test. "But for some it can be a lengthy and emotional journey." "This is a fantastic outcome for reproductive research in Australia which is set to help more people in Australia become parents for the first time." "Monash IVF Group created Australia's first IVF pregnancy and will now make genetic testing more accessible to many Australians with a test that will help IVF patients achieve the birth of a healthy baby more quickly." The AU$495 test is available from today. It has been validated over two years via two clinical trials. Learn more about this test at www.monashivf.com. About Monash IVF Group Monash IVF Group is a leading provider of fertility care, specialist women's imaging and diagnostic services in Australia and Malaysia. The Group continues to invest a significant amount of money into research and is a driving force in the development of assisted reproductive technologies. Monash IVF Group has many Australian and world firsts since the early work of our pioneers who achieved the first IVF pregnancy in the world in 1973. Today a Monash IVF baby is born every two and a half hours. Monash IVF Group -- Helping to bring life to the world. SOURCE Monash IVF Related Links http://www.monashivf.com Brosnan, the 18-year-old son of actor and producer Pierce Brosnan and filmmaker and journalist Keely Shaye Brosnan, recently traveled to Sri Lanka with Bush Lauren and Clarins company chairman Christian Courtin-Clarins to document firsthand how WFP's on-the-ground program there has been supporting children and helping the regional economy develop. WFP connects local farmers with its school meals program that help under-nourished students reach their full potential, both mentally and physically. In turn, those farmers are able to employ their neighbors, including many women. "Traveling to Sri Lanka was an amazing opportunity for a young filmmaker," Brosnan says of his interest in spreading awareness about the projectespecially to a younger generation that's looking for ways to change the world. "I was drawn to Clarins and FEED's mission to help solve childhood hunger through school feeding. This school meals program gives children a sense of belonging, community, and an education. This program is a powerful way to connect with children and to help them thrive. We not only visited schools, but also local farms. One of the most impressive aspects of this partnership is that local farmers are funded to grow rice to feed schoolchildren, which supports the local economy. I feel inspired to develop more socially relevant projects utilizing the resources I have and to create a platform that gives back to our global community." To fund these efforts, FEED & Clarins capitalizes on the prestige beauty brand's global reach and influence. During FEED promotions each spring and fall, Clarins customers at Macy's, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales and clarinsusa.com may purchase a cosmetics tote bag or pouch featuring the brand's logo and a number indicating that the purchase has funded either 10 or 20 meals for kids (inside are trial-size products as a thank-you token). Beginning mid-June, clarins.com will provide five meals for every online order. "The number we put on every FEED bag or accessory connects customers with the cause in a tangible and shareable way. The idea is to elevate the concept of a gift with purchase to a 'gift with purpose', empowering Clarins customers to give directly to those who need it most, through their everyday purchasing choices, such as the ones they make at the makeup counter" says Bush Lauren. "Each meal we are able to help provide truly makes a difference to the child who receives itfor some, it may be the only meal they receive all dayand an entire school year of consistent meals can truly change a life." Not only do guaranteed nutritious meals give children the energy they need to focus and learn, they also give parents an incentive to send their children to schoolespecially helpful for girls in countries where female education may not be as valued. The partnership with FEED is a natural fit with Clarins' core values and mission. "Respect has always been at the heart of the Clarins ethicrespect for the environment, for life, for people," explains Courtin-Clarins. "That's why Clarins believes that real beauty is expressed by taking action to make the world a better place. When I met with Lauren Bush Lauren, it was immediately clear that Clarins needed to be part of this project." Through Brosnan's film and his personal influence, FEED & Clarins hopes to further raise awareness about how people can make a real, measurable difference in the fight against childhood hungerby making the world a better place for present and future generations, one meal at a time. The full film can be viewed on the Clarins USA YouTube channel and clarinsusa.com. And today, May 28th, for every clarinsusa.com order, the brand will donate 10 school meals to children in Sri Lanka. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pB8PuZtXAOc&feature=youtu.be About Clarins Founded in a professional Parisian beauty institute by Jacques Courtin-Clarins in 1954, Clarins has become the #1 prestige skincare brand in Europe. 65 years later, the brand remains family-owned and is distributed in more than 140 countries, offering skin care innovations for face and body, makeup, men's care and treatment fragrances. With unique expertise in phyto-chemistry, Clarins Laboratories are considered pioneers in the fields of plant science and technology. The brand's values are rooted in an ongoing dialogue with women and in abiding respect for both nature and people, with commitments to sustainable sourcing, eco-design, and partnerships with Pur Projet over 440,000 trees planted FEED over 30 million school meals provided to children in need (by end of 2019). Good for the skin, and good for the planet, Clarins launched the My Clarins vegan-friendly and eco-conscious line, in March 2019. Lucas Petry, Clarins PR Manager [email protected] Melissa Reidhead, Clarins Senior Director, Communications [email protected] www.clarinsusa.com About FEED FEED is a social-impact driven lifestyle brand on a mission to end childhood hunger, through the sale of good products that do good. Founded by Lauren Bush Lauren in 2007, FEED was born out of the desire to create a tangible, transparent, and shareable way for people to engage with the issue of worldwide hunger, using their everyday purchasing decisions. Every single product FEED makes from the bags & accessories they are known for, to the coffee they serve at the FEED Shop & Cafe in Brooklyn provides school meals domestically and globally when purchased, through the brand's incredible on-the-ground giving partners the UN World Food Programme and No Kid Hungry. To date, FEED has provided over 107 million meals and counting. Megan Heacock, Manager Community and Content [email protected] About World Food Programme (WFP) Assisting 91.4 million people in around 83 countries each year, the World Food Programme (WFP) is the leading humanitarian organization saving lives and changing lives, delivering food assistance in emergencies and working with communities to improve nutrition and build resilience. As the international community has committed to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition by 2030, one in nine people worldwide still do not have enough to eat. Food and food-related assistance lie at the heart of the struggle to break the cycle of hunger and poverty. The global average cost of a WFP school meals is just $0.25. Tyler Guthrie, World Food Programme, Communication Officer, Rome [email protected] SOURCE Clarins USA Related Links www.clarinsusa.com Jerusalem, May 28 : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that he is trying his best to form a new government in the last 48 hours before the deadline. "You can do a lot of things in 48 hours. There is no reason in the world to paralyse the state for another half a year and spend billions on elections," Xinhua quoted Netanyahu as saying on Monday. However, he admitted that he had not yet persuaded Avigdor Lieberman, head of Yisrael Beiteinu party, to join the coalition. Netanyahu made the statement shortly after the Knesset, Israeli Parliament decided to dissolve itself in a preliminary vote fewer than two months after the April 9 general elections. Just before his statement, Netanyahu met with Lieberman at the Parliament, but the two did not reach an agreement. According to Israeli law, Netanyahu had 28 days to form the government, before he received a two-week extension which will expire on Wednesday's midnight. The right-wing parties won 65 out of the 120 seats in the Israeli Parliament, but without the five seats gained by Lieberman's party, Netanyahu will not be able to form a coalition with a stable majority. Lieberman refuses to join the government because Netanyahu does not accept his demand to amend the draft law to set army recruitment quotas for ultra-Orthodox Jewish students. This amendment is opposed by Yahadut Hatorah and Shas, two ultra-Orthodox parties which are planned to join Netanyahu's coalition. Bengaluru, May 28 : Shocked by its worst defeat in the parliamentary elections, in which it managed to retain a lone seat in Karnataka, the Congress has blamed the 'polarisation' of votes and an unseen 'Modi wave' for the spectacular performance of rival BJP, which won 25 of the 28 Lok Sabha seats in the southern state. "Instead of focusing on real issues like joblessness and rural distress, the BJP succeeded in polarising the electorate by whipping up a frenzy in the name of national security following February's Pulwama terror attack and the air strikes on Balakot in Pakistan thereafter," Congress' state spokesman K.E. Radhakrishna told IANS here. As part of a pre-poll seat-sharing arrangement with its ruling ally Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S), the Congress contested on 21 seats, but lost 20, including the eight it won in the 2014 general elections. The lone seat won by the party was Bangalore Rural, where D.K. Suresh defeated BJP's Ashwath Narayangowada by 2,06,870 votes. Suresh is the younger brother of state Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who belongs to the politically powerful Vokkaliga community (Gowdas). The consolation for the Congress is even the JD-S won only one seat, Hassan, the home turf of its supremo H.D. Deve Gowda. "Between mid-February and mid-April, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed about 10 rallies in which he invoked security concerns in the aftermath of the terror attacks and India's surgical and aerial strikes and changed the narrative from social and economic issues, while we continued to focus on the 'Minimum Income Guarantee Scheme' Nyay, job creation and alleviating farm distress," recalled Radhakrishna. Admitting that the party failed to notice the 'Modi wave' as it was an undercurrent, the leader said the polarisation of the electorate and "money power" helped the BJP to retain the 17 seats it won in 2014 and wrest eight more from the Congress and JD-S. "In our seat-sharing arrangement with the JD-S, we fielded joint candidates for a straight contest against the BJP and also tried to ensure that our respective votes do not get divided in a triangular or quadrangular contest. But our pre-poll strategy and calculations failed to work as transfer of our votes between the two allies did not happen," said Radhakrishna. Karnataka has been the only southern state, where the saffron party has a strong hold on its electorate since 2004, when it won 18 seats, followed by 19 in 2009 and 17 in 2014, while the Congress won 8, 6 and 9 in these respective Lok Sabha elections. "The Congress lost more than the JD-S in this election by entering into a post-poll alliance with it after the May 2018 Assembly elections to keep the BJP out of power even though the two parties did not have the mandate to form the coalition government. By fielding joint candidates, it conceded winnable seats like Tumkur to its ally for the sake of coalition dharma," a political analyst told IANS. The Modi wave was so intense that even a veteran like Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge faced defeat for the first time in his own bastion Gulbarga, a reserved constituency for the Scheduled Castes (SC), which he won twice in the 2009 and 2014 polls. "Every vote for a BJP candidate was meant to be a vote for Modi's return to power. And the saffron tsunami swept away Congress stalwarts like former UPA ministers M. Veerappa Moily in Chikkaballpur, K.H. Muniyappa in Kolar (SC) and three-time winner R. Dhruvanarayana in Chamramajanagar (SC)," said the analyst. As a Congress-JD-S joint candidate from Tumkur, even Deve Gowda lost to BJP's G.S. Basavaraj by a narrow margin of 13,339 votes. The BJP not only retained its sway in all the three Bangalore seats, but also won the five seats reserved for the Scheduled Castes and two reserved for the Scheduled Tribes (STs) -- all of which had been traditional Congress strongholds. "As there is no love lost between the local leaders and cadres of both the parties at the grassroots level, their leaders failed to ensure they campaigned for their joint candidates and voted for them too," added the analyst. (Fakeer Balaji can be contacted at fakir.b@ians.in) Chennai, May 28 : The Indian chess players banned by All India Chess Federation (AICF) will have to wait for some more time for restoration of their Elo rating as announced by global chess body FIDE. According to them, FIDE Qualification Commission is working on the issue. "Nearly a decade ago, FIDE, at the behest of AICF, removed the Elo ratings of dozens of players and expunged their names from the records. Today we are delighted to welcome back all those players with immediate effect," FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich said in a statement. Queried about the timeline for Elo ratings restoration of the banned Indian players Nigel Short, Vice President, FIDE told IANS: "It might take some time to restore all these ratings, because quite a lot of people were banned and at different times." "At the moment, we still don't know the full list and how many people have been subsequently readmitted. However, the Qualification Commission is already working on it. They do have quite a lot of information, but perhaps not everything. I suspect it might not be until July that it is completely sorted out," Short said. "The players - or at least the majority of them - have not been restored yet to the rating list, because we need to cross-reference different lists and other sources," David Llada, Chief of Public Relations for FIDE told IANS. According to him, some of the players may have been already readmitted in the list in previous years. "We need to check all this and it will take some time," Llada added. Llada said the announcement by Dvorkovich on Monday was not a sudden decision and there is no particular reason why it was made now. "The new FIDE management took over approximately seven months ago, and there was a long list of problems to deal with. We had to establish some priorities. Finally the time came to make a decision on this," Llada said. The AICF is maintaining silence on the FIDE announcement. It will be interesting to see how the AICF headed by P.R. Venketrama Raja would respond to FIDE's announcement. According to the players, there are two options for AICF. The first option is to agree to FIDE's decision and facilitate restoration of Elo ratings of the banned players. The other option is to continue to stick to its stand and tell FIDE that the banning of players and expunging of their Elo rating is an internal issue. The AICF has said that the ban on players will be revoked if they give an apology letter and an undertaking to abide by its rules and bye-laws. However banned players like Gurpreet Pal Singh and Karun Duggal who have approached the Competition Commission of India (CCI) against AICF have rejected the idea of giving an apology letter. Singh told IANS: "We will apply to AICF to restore our Elo rating without giving any apology letter citing FIDE's announcement and guidelines and CCI order." Interestingly the FIDE President's Monday announcement has further strengthened the players' case against AICF in the CCI. Recently, the AICF faced a setback at CCI. According to Singh and Duggal, the CCI in its order dated May 9, 2019 told the AICF that it has not complied entirely with its order dated July 12, 2018 by keeping in abeyance the rule that prohibits players from playing in unauthorised tournaments and not rescinding it totally. On May 9, 2019, the CCI directed the AICF to file an undertaking that it will rescind its rule that prohibits players from participating in chess tournaments not authorised by the latter. The AICF had also said that players seeking re-registration should tender a written apology and give an undertaking that they will henceforth abide by the existing bye-laws/rules. On July 12, 2018, the CCI had held that the undertaking prescribed by the AICF for players regarding non-participation in events not authorised by it amounts to restraints that were in the nature of exclusive distribution and refusal to deal as defined in Section 3(f) and 3(4)(d) of the Competition Act, 2002. The CCI also imposed a penalty of Rs 6,92,350 on the AICF for infringing on the provisions of Section 4 of the Act. The CCI said that non-compliance with such an undertaking will result in banning of players and removal of their Elo rating, create entry barriers, foreclose competition and restrict the opportunities available to chess players. "The said restrictions are likely to have appreciable adverse effect on competition in terms of factors contained in Section 19 (3) of the Act. The Commission is, thus, of the view that AICF has contravened Sections 3(4)(c) and 3(4)(d) of the Act read with Section 3(1) of the Act," the CCI order said. The CCI had also directed the AICF to establish the prejudice caused by a chess player before taking any disciplinary action against him and the disciplinary actions taken shall be proportional, fair and transparent. The disciplinary actions against the four players and other similar players shall be reviewed by the AICF on these lines, the CCI had ordered. The complaint against the AICF was filed by four chess players -- Hemant Sharma, Devendra Bajpai, Gurpreet Pal Singh and Karun Duggal -- alleging contravention of the provisions of Sections 3 and 4 of the Competition Act. The players were banned by the AICF from playing in chess tournaments for the past several years and their Elo ratings were also withdrawn. One of the four players who had originally complained to the CCI -- Hemant Sharma -- was re-registered with the AICF in 2016. (Venkatachari Jagannathan can be contacted at v.jagannathan@ians.in) Mumbai, May 28 : The Anil Ambani-led Reliance Capital on Tuesday said that the Offer for Sale (OFS) of its stake in Reliance Nippon Life Asset Management Ltd (RNAM) had received an excellent response from investors. In a statement issued here, Reliance Capital said it had exercised the "Green-Shoe" option and would sell over eight per cent of its shareholding in RNAM through the OFS aggregating approximately Rs 1,100 crore. The company announced OFS of its shareholding in RNAM in order to comply with the mandatory requirement of achieving a Minimum Public Shareholding of 25 per cent by reducing the promoter stake. The RNAM entire stake monetisation proceeds of about Rs 6,000 crore and the already announced transaction with Nippon Life Insurance Company of Japan would be utilised to reduce Reliance Capital's outstanding debt. Based on the above, and other asset monetisation deals presently underway, Reliance Capital expects to reduce its debt by at least Rs 12,000 crore, or 70 per cent, in the current financial year. New Delhi, May 28 : Rashtriya Janata Dal leader and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad on Tuesday said Congress President Rahul Gandhi's decision to resign will be suicidal not just for his own party but also all opposition. "Rahul's offer to resign suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India," Lalu Prasad, who is in jail since last year in the Fodder scam case, tweeted. Rahuls offer to resign suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India. Read more..https://t.co/DkeXAygrFw Lalu Prasad Yadav (@laluprasadrjd) May 28, 2019 The RJD faced a complete rout in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, while Lalu Prasad was imprisoned at the Birsa Munda Central Jail. He has not kept well and had also been undergoing treatment at a hospital in Ranchi. His Twitter handle says while in jail the RJD chief's tweets would be managed by his family. Gandhi had offered to resign during the Congress Working Committee meeting held on Saturday. The CWC had not accepted the offer but media reports since have said that Gandhi is determined to find a successor and pass on the baton. -- With inputs from IANS Patna, May 28 : Hours ahead of a review meeting to discuss the RJD-led Grand Alliance's routed in the Lok Sabha polls in Bihar, jailed RJD chief Lalu Prasad on Tuesday advised Congress President Rahul Gandhi to not resign from the post calling his offer "suicidal". "Rahul's offer to resign is suicidal. Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge BJP but failed to build a national narrative. The result in a particular election can never alter the reality in as diverse and plural a country as India," said Lalu Prasad in a tweet. The RJD President, who is undergoing treatment at a government hospital in Ranchi after being convicted in fodder scam cases, was reportedly disturbed for last few days after his party's poll rout in Bihar and Jharkhand. However, he asked Rahul Gandhi to "continue to lead the Congress". Lalu Prasad said that if the Congress appointed a non-Gandhi as its president, it would be accused of being a Gandhi family "puppet". "Why should Rahul give such an opportunity to his political rivals?" he said. Referring to humiliating defeat of the Opposition parties in the elections, the RJD leader said the opposition should admit that the resounding victory of the Modi government was its collective failure and should introspect on what went wrong. He said the opposition parties failed to synchronise their strategies and actions leading to the absence of a national narrative for the public. "No clear prime ministerial candidate emerged from the opposition against Narendra Modi. The opposition could not choose one 'dulha' (groom) for its 'baraat' (wedding procession)," he pointed out. Lalu Yadav said that the opposition should have collectively projected Rahul Gandhi as its prime ministerial candidate. "There was nothing wrong in regional parties bargaining for more seats, but they should not have made the strategic blunder of not projecting someone without a national perspective as their prime ministerial candidate," he said. "Laluji understands the importance of Rahul Gandhi and his family in leading the Congress. It was he who defended and backed Sonia Gandhi, when the issue of her foreign origin was raked up by the RSS and the BJP. Congress minus Rahul Gandhi will be party without the glue to hold it together," RJD spokesperson Shakti Yadav said. Senior RJD leader Shivanand Tiwary said Lalu has rightly advised Rahul Gandhi. "If the opposition is keen to counter the BJP and defeat it, Rahul Gandhi should continue to lead the Congress and the Opposition," he said. Srinagar, May 28 : The pre-dawn search operation by security forces on Tuesday in Kareemabad village of Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district has been called off. No militant was found in the village during the cordon and search operation that started early in the morning. Reports from the village said the security forces withdrew after bands of stone pelting youths engaged them in pitched clashes. Security forces in large numbers were carrying out a door-to-door search operation to flush out the hiding militants after receiving information about their presence in the village, the reports said. New Delhi, May 28 : The Delhi High Court on Tuesday asked the Central government to file a reply on a plea seeking to increase the time limit from "20 weeks to 24 or 26 weeks" to terminate a pregnancy. A division bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice Brijesh Sethi listed the matter for August 6 and said that some issues need scientific consideration. The court was hearing a plea filed by social activist and lawyer Amit Sahni, who sought direction to the government to replace or suitably extend the time limit to terminate a pregnancy from 20 weeks by a further period of four to six weeks by bringing suitable amendments in Section 3(2)(b) of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act. The petitioner said that Section 3(2)(b) of the MTP Act, which prohibits abortion of a foetus after 20 weeks of pregnancy, is against the Right to Privacy as it prohibits termination of pregnancy even if the foetus is suffering from severe abnormality. "There is substantial risk that if the child was born, it would suffer from such physical or mental abnormalities as to be seriously handicapped," the plea said. Where pregnancy is caused by rape or due to failure of a device used by a married woman or by her husband, the MTP Act is silent on it, the plea said, adding that it makes termination of pregnancy an offence punishable under the Indian Penal Code if abortion is not done in accordance with the Act. The plea said that the foetal abnormalities were detected between 18 to 20 weeks and the period of one-two weeks was too less for the would-be parents to take the difficult call on whether to keep their baby or to abort it. "...the lack of legal approval moves abortion to the underground (illegal manner) and they are done in unhygienic conditions by untrained persons, thus putting thousands of women at risk," read the plea. It also demanded empowering women with sexual rights, legal protection against sex crimes and sex choices both for their own interest and for the sake of reducing the fertility rate as a whole. The plea said that abortion beyond a period of 20 weeks was permitted only if continuing the pregnancy posed a substantial risk to the woman's life. But the law does not consider the factum of serious abnormalities suffered by the child in womb which are detected after the 20th week. Sahni has cited Supreme Court judgments that a woman's right to privacy, dignity and bodily integrity should be respected. He also mentioned many European countries including France, the UK and Italy and even Nepal which allow abortion after 20 weeks if foetal abnormalities were discovered. He requested the court to hold that the right to abort the foetus was a fundamental right of the woman's body sovereignty and each woman has the sole right to make a decision about her body in the context of carrying on a pregnancy or to terminate the same, subject to checks as provided under the MTP Act or further checks, which may be provided. Sahni also pleaded that unmarried women and widows were equally entitled to terminate a pregnancy under the MTP Act. Lucknow, May 28 : The Uttar Pradesh Police said on Tuesday that the killers of Surendra Singh, a former village head and a BJP leader in Amethi, were his local political rivals. It had been widely speculated that Singh was murdered because he had campaigned for Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP( leader Smriti Irani. Director General of Police O.P. Singh said that on the basis of evidence, the victim had local-level rivalry. One of the accused wanted to contest the panchayat election but Singh was supporting another aspirant. The police have filed a First Information Report against the five accused. Wasim, Nasim, Golu and Ramchandra have been booked for the murder while the fifth person, identified as Dharamnath Gupta, has been charged with conspiracy to kill the BJP leader. Three of the accused were arrested on Tuesday and the police are searching for the remaining two. Surendra Singh was shot dead while he was sleeping outside his house early on Sunday and the murder prompted Smriti Irani to come down to Amethi where she met the family of the deceased and even attended the cremation. Later she told reporters that she would personally ensure that the accused get strict punishment. Taipei, May 28 : Amid the ongoing trade tensions between the US and China, US-based chip-maker Qualcomm and Chinese computer-maker Lenovo have teamed up to introduce the first 5G laptop, powered by Snapdragon. Code-named "Project Limitless", the 5G-enabled PC would be "the world's first 7nm platform purpose-built for PCs that offers 5G connectivity", TechCrunch quoted the companies as describing the device on Monday. The laptop would run on Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8cx Compute Platform, which supports both 5G as well as 4G connections and has a battery that Qualcomm claims can last for several days per charge. The platform would put to use the Snapdragon X55 5G modem, which has download speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps. The release date and pricing details of "Project Limitless" have not been revealed as yet, the report added. Qualcomm and Lenovo made the announcement at the Computex press conference held in Taipei, Taiwan. The companies announced their pairing despite US President Donald Trump's decision to scrutinize trade relations between the two countries due to security concerns. On May 15, Trump effectively banned Chinese tech major Huawei with a national security order following which Qualcomm, along with Google, Microsoft, Intel and ARM, put restrictions on businesses with Huawei. Settlement status of the US-China trade war remains unclear as of now but Qualcomm's withdrawal from Huawei's manufacturing could greatly affect the Chinese company's 5G ambitions. Currently, South Korea, China, Japan, Australia and the US are leading with 5G large-scale mass deployment. While China is expected to represent 40 per cent of global 5G connections by 2025, India is yet to allocate 5G spectrum to operators even for 5G trial of use cases. India is targeting 2020 for 5G rollout. Mumbai, May 28 : Veteran actor Anupam Kher says "Queen" actress Kangana Ranaut, whom he met at the airport here, is his favourite. "Always a pleasure to meet the one and only and my favourite Kangana," Anupam wrote on Instagram on Tuesday. He also uploaded a few photographs of himself with her. Dressed in a plain white dress, Kangana looked elegant with a pair of white heels and a pair of shades. Anupam too opted white for his airport look. He wore white shirt along with a pair of denim jeans. Anupam has often praised Kangana a lot on social media. When Kangana claimed that no one from the industry spoke about her performance in "Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi", Anupam had lauded the actress. He had tweeted: "Kangana Ranaut is a rockstar. She is brilliant. I applaud her courage and performances. She is also the real example of women empowerment." On the work front, Anupam is gearing up for the release of "One Day: Justice Delivered" while Kangana will be next seen in "Panga". Aizawl, May 28 : Mizoram has once again become a "completely dry state" from Tuesday following a new liquor law that prohibits the sale and consumption of alcohol, a Minister said here. "The Mizoram Liquor (Prohibition) Bill, 2019 was passed unanimously in the state Assembly on March 20. The Bill, that received Governor Jagdish Mukhi's assent before the parliamentary polls, replaced the four-year-old Mizoram Liquor (Prohibition and Control) or MLPC Act, 2014," the state's Excise and Narcotics Minister K. Beichhua told IANS in a telephonic interview. He said that the laws in the new Bill could not be implemented immediately after Mukhi's assent due to the model code of conduct (MCC) in force for the 17th Lok Sabha polls and Assembly by-elections. "The Election Commission on Sunday afternoon lifted the MCC. The Mizoram Liquor (Prohibition) Bill, 2019 was notified today (Tuesday)," Beichhua said. The Minister said that the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF) was committed to fulfilling its pre-poll promise made to the people before the November 28 Assembly polls. "We are happy that the MNF government fulfilled one of its major pre-poll commitments," Beichhua said, adding that the state government had taken the step to save future generations from the menace of alcohol and drugs, and establish a clean Mizo society. He said that the state government would lose revenue to the tune of Rs 60 to Rs 70 crore annually following the decision. "But the loss of revenue is much less than the loss of human life and suffering. Larger societal benefit is more vital." The Minister said that the MNF government had decided to ban production, import, sale and consumption of liquor for the common people, except defence personnel and those with medical needs. "Under the new Act, rules have been framed to provide separate provisions to the defence personnel and tourists who can consume liquor maintaining some restrictions. People under treatment would be allowed to drink only if it is prescribed by a doctor," Beichhua said. However, the vendors opposing the government's move said that the liquor ban has resulted in huge losses to their business. According to officials of the Mizoram State Excise and Narcotics Department, in all there were 43 liquor shops, three bonded warehouses, two bars and one micro brewery run by private owners across the state, whose license expired on March 31. Mizoram was a dry state for about 18 years, until the Congress government lifted the ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol in January 2015. Beichhua claimed that several hundred people, mostly young men, died of alcohol consumption and in road accidents after the ban was lifted. However, Chief Minister Zoramthanga at a public meeting in Aizawl recently claimed that about 6,000 people died post the policy change. In fact, some political pundits blame the Congress' liberal liquor policy for its debacle in its last political bastion in the November 28 Assembly polls. "The Congress leaders did not pay heed to the public and church bodies' call to ban liquor because of the rise in alcohol-related deaths," political analyst and writer R.L. Sailo told IANS. Instead, it justified revoking the ban stating that it generated revenue and prevented consumption of spurious liquor as well as smuggling of liquor from neighbouring Myanmar and other northeastern states. Prohibition was one of the major poll promises of the MNF that won 26 seats in the 40-member House. With a population of 1,091,014 (according to the 2011 census), Mizoram is a closely knit society with a Christian majority (87 per cent). (Sujit Chakraborty can be contacted at sujit.c@ians.in) London, May 28 : UK Foreign Secretary and Tory leadership candidate Jeremy Hunt has warned that his party will be committing "political suicide" if it tries to push through a no-deal Brexit, drawing a major dividing line between himself and the frontrunners in the leadership contest Hunt told BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Tuesday that the move to no-deal would result in a general election, which could see opposition Labour Party take power. He said the "only solution" to deliver Brexit was to change the withdrawal agreement that outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May negotiated with the EU, which was voted down by MPs three times. The official leadership race for Conservative party leader gets under way in early June, after May stands down - but jostling between candidates has already begun. The winner, expected to be named by late July, will also become Prime Minister. The EU has consistently refused to reopen the negotiations, but Hunt said creating a new UK negotiating team -- including members of Northern Ireland's DUP, Tory pro-Brexit European Research Group as well as representatives from Scotland and Wales -- would "give the EU the confidence that any offer can be delivered through Parliament". He claimed the main issue that needed addressing in the withdrawal agreement was the Irish backstop - the policy to prevent a hard border returning between Ireland and Northern Ireland that has proved controversial with a number of Brexiteers. "If you go to (the EU) with the right tone, with a deal that recognizes their legitimate concerns over the border of Ireland, if you go with a negotiating team that gives them the confidence you can deliver with a majority in the House of Commons, you have the prospect... of getting a deal." Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Hunt also warned the Conservatives would be "annihilated" and "face extinction" if there was a general election before Brexit happened. Housing Minister Kit Malthouse has become the latest Tory MP to join the race to become party leader. So far, the candidates vying to replace May are: Hunt, former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, Environment Secretary Michael Gove, Health Secretary Matt Hancock, Home Secretary Sajid Javid, former Leader of the House Andrea Leadsom, Housing Minister Kit Malthouse, former Work and Pensions Secretary Esther McVey, former Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab and International Development Secretary Rory Stewart. Jammu, May 28 : Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) Dilbag Singh said on Tuesday that with the killing of the chief commander of Ansar Gazwatul Hind Zakir Musa, the new idea of militancy had ended in Kashmir. Talking to the media on the sidelines of his visit to Poonch district of Jammu region, the officer termed Zakir Musa's killing a big success for the security forces. "He tried to start a new idea of militancy in Kashmir but his idea has come to an end with his death," Singh said. He said there were still 275 active militants in the Kashmir Valley, out of which 100 to 200 were foreign terrorists. He said all the security forces were working in complete synergy in their fight against militancy in the state. New York, May 28 : Using Artificial Intelligence (AI), researchers have discovered new genetic flaws that contribute to autism in people. Most previous research on the genetic basis of disease has focused on the 20,000 known genes and the surrounding sections of DNA that regulate those genes. However, even this enormous amount of genetic information makes up only slightly more than one per cent of the 3.2 billion chemical pairs in the human genome. The other 99 per cent has conventionally been thought of as "dark" or "junk," although recent research has begun to disrupt that idea. In their new finding, detailed in the journal Nature Genetics, the research team offers a method to make sense of this vast array of genomic data. The system uses an AI technique called deep learning in which an algorithm performs successive layers of analysis to learn about patterns that would otherwise be impossible to discern. The algorithm teaches itself how to identify biologically relevant sections of DNA and predicts whether those snippets play a role in any of more than 2,000 protein interactions that are known to affect the regulation of genes. "This method provides a framework for doing this analysis with any disease," said Olga Troyanskaya, Professor at Princeton University in the US. The approach could be particularly helpful for neurological disorders, cancer, heart disease and many other conditions that have eluded efforts to identify genetic causes. In the case of autism, the researchers analysed the genomes of 1,790 families with "simplex" autism spectrum disorder, meaning the condition is apparent in one child but not in other members of the family. The method sorted among 120,000 mutations to find those that affect the behaviour of genes in people with autism. Among this sample, fewer than 30 per cent of the people affected by autism spectrum disorder had a previously identified genetic cause. The newly found mutations are likely to significantly increase that fraction, the researchers said. New Delhi, May 28 : Congress President Rahul Gandhi is unlikely to be the party leader in the Lok Sabha and the post may go to someone else as it happened in the previous Lok Sabha, party sources said on Tuesday. But Gandhi is expected to be the CPP leader. Two senior Congress General Secretaries IANS spoke to confirmed that Rahul Gandhi was not willing to take the position of Leader of the Congress in the lower house. They said that Gandhi was more eager to continue the ideological battle with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ideological mentor RSS in and outside Parliament. The leaders pointed out that he had taken the party's poor showing in the Lok Sabha elections in which the Congress won just 52 seats personally and offered to step down as the Congress President and called for someone outside the Gandhi family to head the party. Gandhi told senior leaders that he did not want to get into the appointments of state unit and district chiefs. But party sources said that Rahul Gandhi was likely to opt for the post of Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) leader in the Lok Sabha. His offer to step down as Congress President was earlier rejected by Congress Working Committee members. New Delhi, May 28 : The Delhi High Court on Tuesday was moved for implementation of the national commission to review the working of the Constitution (NCRWC) proposal on population control and 'two-child norm' as a criteria for government jobs, aid and subsidies. A public interest litigation (PIL), filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, sought direction to the Centre to ascertain the feasibility of implementing the 24th recommendation of the NCRWC (Justice Venkatchaliah Commission) on population control. In his plea, Upadhyay said the right to clean air, drinking water, health, peaceful sleep, shelter, livelihood and education could not secured for citizens without effective population control. Stating that the government has not implemented the NCRWC proposals, the petitioner sought withdrawal of statutory rights like the right to vote, contest, property, free shelter and free legal aid. Upadhyay requested the court to direct the government to spread awareness on population explosion and provide contraceptive pill, condoms and vaccines to economically weaker section and below poverty line families. He also sought direction to the law commission to prepare a comprehensive report on population explosion within three months and ways to control it. In his petition, Upadhyay said the vote bank politics had been misusing the taxpayers' hard-earned money for the past 70 years and there was an utter lack of strategy to banish poverty. "At present, 122 crore Indians have Aadhaar Card, around 20 per cent viz. 25 crore citizens (particularly children) are without Aadhaar, and around 4 crore Bangladeshi and 1 crore Rohangiya intruders illegally reside in India. From this, it's evident that the population of our country is around 152 crore instead of 130 crore and we have marched ahead of China," he said. He said India accounted for only 2 per cent of agriculture land and 4 per cent drinking water, but the population was 20 per cent of the world. If we compare with China then our agricultural area was only one-third of that country and the rate of population growth three times that of China, he said. "The population explosion is the root cause of most of our problems like shortage of water, forests, land, cloth, house, poverty, employment, hunger and malnutrition," the petitioner said. He said population explosion was also the root cause of crime like theft, dacoity and snatching. Islamabad, May 28 : Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) Chief Executive Officer Richard Morin has stepped down from his post and his resignation has been accepted by the board of directors with immediate effect on Tuesday, according to a notification. Morin tendered his resignation after the PSX board of directors issued a show-cause notice asking him to explain his simultaneous working with a Canadian wealth management company, the Express Tribune reported. Earlier, the board had issued him two letters and was not satisfied with his explanations, the daily said. According to Dawn newspaper, an emergency meeting of the PSX board of directors was held on Tuesday during which Morin submitted his resignation. "We would like to inform you that Richard Morin has tendered his resignation from the position of CEO of PSX Limited, which was accepted by the board of directors with immediate effect," Company Secretary Muhammad Rafique Umer said in a notification. Morin joined the PSX as the first non-Pakistani CEO in January 2018 following its demutualisation and corporatisation about a year before. According to the board, Morin had simultaneously been serving in Archer Wealth Management Inc Canada as its Chairman and Chief Compliance Officer. "PSX rules and regulations suggest that if a high official is found to be in conflict of interest and does not meet the 'fit and proper' criteria for the high position, then he should be removed with immediate effect," a PSX director said. Morin completed his B.Sc in Economics from the University of Montreal and an MBA from McGill University. He co-founded Montreal-based investment manager Landry Morin Inc. He has also headed the Stock Exchange of Mauritius. He had also been vice-president of National Bank Securities. Beijing, May 28 : China on Tuesday told the US to stop interfering in Tibet after the American envoy advised Beijing to hold talks with Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama who is living in India. In a rare visit to Tibet last week, US Ambassador to China Terry Branstad advised the Chinese government officials to hold talks with the spiritual leader and slammed Beijing for cracking down on religious freedom in the restive region. China, which sees the 14th Dalai Lama as a secessionist, reacted angrily on expected lines. "US Ambassador recently visited the Tibet autonomous region and officials there also met him. He also met the local community, educational and cultural institutes as well as religious venues," Chinese Foreign Ministry's spokesperson Lu Kang said. "China briefed the US side about its religious and ethnic policies and also about socio-economic development in Tibet... China made clear its policy on dialogue and contact with the Dalai Lama as well as foreigners' access to Tibet. Finally, it was also stressed that China firmly opposes any foreign interference in Tibet," Lu added. Branstad was the first US envoy to visit Tibet since 2015. Last year, Washington enacted a law to deny visas to the Chinese officials who denied officials and journalists access to Tibet. Tibet is China's troubled region that is almost off-limits to foreign journalists and diplomats. Beijing sees the Dalai Lama a "trouble maker" in Tibet who fled to India after a failed revolt in 1959. The spiritual leader, who has been living in India ever since, rejects Beijing's charges and says he seeks autonomy in Tibet where human rights violations have been reported. China scorns any foreign leader or country that maintains contact with the Dalai Lama. New Delhi, May 28 : The Congress has said it will move the Supreme Court to demand compensation for the victims of violence in Tripura during the Lok Sabha elections from the state government or the Election Commission. Addressing the media at the party headquarters here on Tuesday, Tripura Congress chief Pradyut Kishore Deb Barman said, "Tripura witnessed the worst law and order situation in the last two months during the Lok Sabha elections." He said on April 11, during the first phase of elections, the incidents of violence were worst. "We demanded re-polling at 436 polling booths, but it took place only at 168 stations," he said. Barman said the April 18 vote was rescheduled to April 23. "We are moving the Supreme Court to demand compensation for the families who lost their kin or were injured during the violence and for the properties damaged during the violence," he said. Barman said the Supreme Court will guide either the Election Commission or the state government to pay the compensation to the victims. He accused the BJP workers of attacking people in the state. "Many people had to take shelter in the forests to save themselves from the BJP workers." Barman said as the Tripura Police had failed to control the law and order situation, the task should be assigned to the Assam Rifles. Mumbai, May 28 : Actress Anita Hassanandani, who has just wrapped up "Naagin 3", believes in the power of television as a medium to reach out to viewers in small towns. "I do believe in TV as a medium. In smaller towns, people really follow you (actors). They want to know how you lead your life. I feel TV has more power than any other medium because people personally connect with your characters. They see you every day. There's a different connection they make with you," Anita told IANS over phone. She also feels artistes across the board, irrespective of the medium, must leverage their popularity to spread the message on any kind of upliftment. Akshay Kumar-starrer "PadMan", for one, has done quite a bit in opening up discussions on the need for awareness on menstrual hygiene. Anita, who has built a fan following with shows like "Kabhii Sautan Kabhii Sahelii", "Kkavyanjali" and "Yeh Hai Mohabbatein" over the years, has herself come on board as brand ambassador for Pee Safe, which has made a foray into organic cotton, biodegradable sanitary pads. The announcement was made on Menstrual Hygiene Day on Tuesday. "Everybody nowadays is thinking towards the betterment of the environment. If people switch to biodegradable pads, it would change so much and would help the environment," she said, explaining her decision to promote the product, which comes with recyclable disposable bags. "When something like this (endorsement) came up, it just felt like a responsible citizen. It felt more about trying to spread a message in whichever little way I can. "I truly believe it's really not the medium (of spreading a message). It's about the way you get an opportunity, the way you handle it and the way you try to do your best with whatever you can do," Anita said. Brussels, May 28 : European leaders headed on Brussels on Tuesday to launch the hunt for candidates for top EU jobs in the wake of polls that shook up traditional alliances and boosted nationalists, the Greens and liberals. The haggling over jobs, including a replacement for EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, is likely to last several months. For the first time the big centrist blocs no longer have a majority as the European Parliament elections boosted nationalists, the Greens and liberals. It leaves the EU more fragmented, so finding consensus may be harder than in the past, the BBC reported. The talks over dinner on Tuesday may not even result in a shortlist of candidates. Outgoing UK Prime Minister Theresa May will participate, but reports say that there will be little or no discussion of Brexit. It is more an occasion for leaders to assess the political mood and explore possible combinations, to ensure a stable balance of political opinions, geography and gender. The other top EU officials to be replaced later this year are: European Council President Donald Tusk (Polish), European Central Bank President Mario Draghi (Italian) and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Federica Mogherini (Italian). The new top officials will take up their posts on November 1, except for the new European Council chief, who starts on December 1. In 2014, Juncker was chosen to head the Commission as the centre-right European People's Party candidate, after the EPP had won the election. But it is a much tougher challenge this time for the EPP's candidate Manfred Weber - a German - after his bloc shrank from 217 seats to 180 in the 751-seat Parliament. He has the backing of German Chancellor Angela Merkel. On the selection of the European Commission President, the European Parliament said the winner only had to be someone "who made his/her programme and personality known prior to the elections and engaged in a European-wide campaign". That opens the door to candidates who weren't strictly candidates before, such as Denmark's Margarete Vestager or maybe even the Chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier, the BBC said. New Delhi, May 28 : Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President John Bailey on Tuesday weighed in on diversity, saying there are great filmmakers everywhere and they need to be acknowledged. "The Academy and film institutes around the world are dealing with issues of...encouraging and supporting diversity while not compromising on the inherent artistic value of films," Bailey said here amidst many aspiring Indian filmmakers. He agreed that the Academy is looking for increasing its membership in diversity, but not at the expense of quality. "Last year, we brought in 928 new members into the Academy. Fifty per cent were international members... we have been so Hollywood-centric for so long. "There are literally thousands of incredible filmmakers around the world... men and women who have been making movies for 30, 40, 50 years who could have been, but have never been invited in the Academy or didn't know that they could be sponsored. "There need be no compromises. There are great filmmakers everywhere. We need to acknowledge them and their films need to be seen irrespective of gender, race, any kind of ethnicity... at the same time, we need to pay attention to those issues because we have ignored them for so long," he said. Bailey shared that the Academy had started an initiative to double its membership in diversity. "That is inviting more women into all the branches of the Academy. That is also a commitment to diversity in languages, film culture around world," he said. Talking about his visit to India, he said: "Your films are made in 23 or 24 languages. When the Academy is thinking of diversity, I can't think of any other country in the world that represents the opportunities and challenges of diversity and unifying us all through diversity than in India." Hailing India as a land of story-tellers, he highlighted the need for filmmakers to tell personal stories. He also appreciated the enthusiasm and willingness shown by India towards deeper collaboration with the Academy. The session here was also attended by Amit Khare, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and Prasoon Joshi, Chairman, Central Board of Film Certification. Joshi talked about how cinema is a part and parcel of everyday life in India. He highlighted the current trend of 'Cinema Loktantra', the democratization of cinema in India through technology and increased outreach. New Delhi, May 28 : The Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed the plea of UAE-based businessman Naval Kishore Kapoor challenging consideration of the supplementary chargesheet filed against him in a terror funding case in the Kashmir Valley allegedly involving Pakistan-based terrorist leaders Hafiz Saeed, Syed Salahuddin, seven Kashmiri separatist leaders, among others. A bench of Justices Manmohan and Sangita Dhingra Sehgal dismissed Kapoor's plea challenging the trial court order taking cognisance of the chargesheet filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) against him in the terror funding case. Kapoor told the court that the trial court had wrongly taken cognisance of the chargesheet as there has been no offence made out against him. Kapoor also said the allegation that he was remitting foreign money into India through the Kashmiri businessman Zahood Ahmad Shah Watali is vague and without any supporting document. The court, however, observed that there was sufficient material available on record which prima facie points towards the involvement of the Kapoor along with accused and Kashmiri businessman Watali. Both of them aided and abetted the flow of funds from fake and bogus companies floated in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and channelised these to secessionists and separatists in the Kashmir Valley. "The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on the basis of fresh material collected, was able to unearth the fresh cause of action against the appellant/Naval Kishore Kapoor and filed the supplementary chargesheet against him," the court said. "...we are of the considered view that the arguments advanced on behalf of the appellant that the trial court erroneously and wrongly took cognisance against the appellant because no fresh material was produced by the investigating agency in the supplementary chargesheet implicating the appellant in the alleged conspiracy, is without force." it added. In January 2018, the NIA chargesheeted Ahmad Shah and Watali along with Pakistan-based terrorist leaders Hafiz Saeed, Syed Salahuddin, seven Kashmiri separatist leaders and others in a case of terror funding in the Kashmir Valley. They were chargesheeted under stringent anti-terror laws alleging that they had hatched a conspiracy with Saeed and Salahuddin to wage war against India for the secession of Jammu and Kashmir. The separatists arrested on July 24, 2017, are - Aftab Hilali Shah alias Shahid-ul-Islam, Ayaz Akbar Khandey, Farooq Ahmad Dar alias Bitta Karate, Nayeem Khan, Altaf Ahmad Shah, Raja Mehrajuddin Kalwal and Bashir Ahmad Bhat alias Peer Saifullah. Watali was arrested on August 17, 2017, while Kapoor was arrested in July 2018. On January 22, the NIA filed a supplementary chargesheet naming Kapoor as accused in the case. The trial court has taken cognisance of the chargesheet on February 6. Thiruvananthapuram, May 28 : Congress Kerala unit (KPCC) chief Mullappally Ramachandran on Tuesday hauled up congress leader and former MLA A P Abdullakutty over a facebook post put up by the latter heaping praise on prime minister Narendra Modi. Mr. Ramachandran told reporters that the KPCC had sought an explanation from Adbullakutty on his facebook post following a complaint lodged by the Kannur unit of the party against him. The congress chief said that a special committee will be constituted to look into the complaint against Adbullakutty. Abdullakutty had heaped praise on the alleged development initiatives undertaken by the Modi government. In the facebook post, the congress leader opined that the BJP under Modi sailed to victory piggybacking on the goodwill generated by the welfare initiatives of the government such as the construction of toilets under the swachh bharat scheme and the distribution of LPG cylinders under the ujjwala scheme which benefited the poorest sections. The Modi government constructed toilets in over 9 crore homes and gave LPG cylinders to 6 crore households, the former congress MLA wrote, adding that the LPG cylinders proved a boon for women of poor households who had previously to make do with dung cakes and dry twigs for cooking. He attributed Modis popularity among the masses to the latters alleged embracing of the Gandhian ideal of drawing up schemes meant for the uplift of the most vulnerable and poorest of the poor. With his post coming under fire from congress workers and supporters, Abdullakutty clarified that his post was not pro-Modi but pro-development. Abdullakuttys waxing lyrical on Narendra Modi is nothing new. He had been a CPI(M) leader before joining the congress. He had been expelled from the CPI(M) for heaping praise on the Gujarat model of governance of Narendra Modi. The ujjwala scheme (pradhan manthri ujjwala yojana) aims to provide LPG gas connections to BPL (below poverty line) households. However, the purported success of the scheme has been called into question by recent media reports saying that a majority of the beneficiaries of the scheme have chosen not to go for a refill of gas cylinders for want of money. Most poor households are unable to cough up the 950 rupees required for a monthly refill. Similarly, the parliamentary standing committee on rural development has found that many toilets constructed under the swachh bharat scheme have become defunct and unusable for reasons ranging from poor quality of construction to scarcity of water. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 28) Filipino and Japanese firms are seen to sign over 20 business agreements amounting close to P300 billion when President Rodrigo Duterte visits the east Asian country, the Department of Trade and Industry said on Tuesday. In a statement, DTI said the deals that will be signed at the sidelines of Duterte's trip to Japan for the 25th NIKKEI Conference on the Future of Asia, which will be held from May 30 to 31, will provide at least 80,000 jobs to Filipinos. "Japanese investors remain bullish on the sustained growth momentum under the administration of President Duterte, given its aggressive infrastructure build-up, meaningful investment and financial reforms, and demographic advantages," Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said. DTI said the signed investment pledges will mostly be in infrastructure, manufacturing, electronics, medical devices, business process outsourcing (BPO), power, electricity, transport, automotive, food manufacturing, and marine manpower industries. Lopez is expected to witness the signing of the business agreements. Duterte will leave for Tokyo on Tuesday afternoon. He is scheduled to have a bilateral meeting with Japan Prime Minister Abe Shinzo after his keynote address at the Nikkei Conference on May 31, but there will be no agreements signed during the two leaders' meeting, the Department of Foreign Affairs said. Panaji, May 28 : The All India Hindu Convention on Tuesday passed a resolution condemning the arrest of Sanjeev Punalekar, a lawyer associated with the Sanatan Sanstha, in connection with the murder of rationalist Narendra Dabholkar. Lawyers who participated in the convention, which is currently underway in Goa, also said that the arrest of Punalekar by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), in connection with the Dabholkar probe, would be protested at various bar councils across the country. Virendra Ichalkaranjikar, President of the Hindu Vidhidnya Parishad, which is a part of the organising body Hindu Janajagruti Parishad, said that while an uproar is being created over the killing of rationalists and left wing thinkers like Dabholkar, Govind Pansare, M.M. Kalburgi and Gauri Lankesh, there was very little dialogue about the killings by Maoists in the country. "Uproar is being created over the killing of Dabholkar, Comrade Pansare, Kalburgi and Gauri Lankesh. However, nobody speaks on killings of more than 12,000 innocent citizens by the Communists-sponsored naxals," Ichalkaranjikar said. He added that the arrest of Punalekar and his assistant Vikram Bhave by CBI officials earlier this week was a conspiracy to "implicate devout Hindus". Dabholkar, 67, headed the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS). He was gunned down near his residence while on a morning walk in 2013. Besides Punalekar and Bhave, the CBI has so far arrested a total of five persons in connection with the murder. Five years after Dabholkar's killing, the CBI made the first breakthrough arrest in August 2018 of the alleged shooters - Sachin Andure from Aurangabad and Sharad Kalaskar from Palghar region in Maharashtra. Srinagar, May 28 : The Jammu and Kashmir High Court on Tuesday came down heavily on the director of Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, directing him to explain how the medical report of the Bandipora rape victim was leaked on social media. Since Tuesday morning, a medical report purportedly related to the medical examination of the three-year rape victim of Bandipora district had been doing the rounds on social media sites in the Valley. The lawyer of the victim's family told the court that the report pertaining to the medical examination of the rape victim had been leaked on social media which has also carried the name of the victim thereby violating the child's privacy. The division bench of the High Court comprising Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice Rashid Ali Dar asked the director of the super specialty SKIMS hospital to explain the exposure of the medical report on social media. Public outrage had followed reports of the alleged rape of the three-year old child in Bandipora district on May 8. The police had constituted a special investigation team (SIT) that swiftly completed the probe and presented the chargesheet against the accused in the trial court. Chennai, May 28 : The DMK would decide on its no-confidence motion decision against Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal once the assembly is convened. "Wait and see," was the reply by Stalin when a reporter asked whether the party would press for the no-confidence motion against Dhanapal for which the party has given a notice earlier. Last month Stalin sent a letter to the Secretary of Tamil Nadu Assembly proposing a no-confidence motion against Dhanapal. Stalin is the leader of Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly. He said the functioning of party legislators would be known once the assembly session starts. Winning 13 seats in the by-elections, the DMK strength in the 234-member Assembly has gone up to 101. The ruling AIADMK has the support of 123 MLAs. All the newly elected lawmakers took oath of office at the State Secretariat on Tuesday. New Delhi, May 28 : In a huge blow to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, two Trinamool Congress MLAs and more than 60 councillors joined the BJP here on Tuesday along with a CPI-M MLA, with BJP veteran Kailash Vijayvargiya predicting many more defections. The dramatic development, just five days after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) breached the Trinamool fortress, led to the saffron outfit taking control of three municipalities in the state from the ruling party. Trinamool Congress-turned-BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu Roy, a two-term MLA from Bijpur constituency, Tushar Kanti Bhattacharya from Bishnupur (Trinamool) and Debendra Roy of Hemtabad (CPI-M) were the MLAs who joined the BJP at the party headquarters here. So did more than 60 councillors from the municipalities of Kanchrapara, Halishahar and Naihati amid cries of "Bharat Mata ki Jai" and "Jai Shri Ram". As a result, all three Municipalities will now be ruled by the BJP. Vijayvargiya, the BJP in-charge of West Bengal and a party Genreal Secretary, asserted that more Trinamool Congress leaders would join the saffron party soon. Vijayvargiya said: "We will do a seven-phase programme of joining, just like the state saw elections in seven phases." He said that every month more and more people will join the BJP. "Those who feel suffocated in the TMC because of Mamata want to join the BJP." But he said that the BJP will be selective. "Not everyone will be allowed (to join). Only those eligible will be allowed." He said his best wishes were with Mamata Banerjee so that she remains the Chief Minister till 2021. "But if her 'karma' and people work like this, we cannot help." Added Mukul Roy, once a right hand of Mamata Banerjee and now in the BJP: "The way Bengal is going under the leadership of Vijayvargiya, all the TMC people will join the BJP. From June 1 or 2, you will see the queue of MLAs." The BJP stunned the Trinamool Congress by winning 18 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats -- from just two bagged in 2014. The councillors who embraced the BJP included 17 each from Kanchrapara and Halishahar municipalities and 29 from Naihati municipality. Some panchayat heads also walked over to the BJP. A despondent Trinamool Congress admitted there was a "minor crisis" in the party but vowed to bounce back in the 2021 Assembly elections. "The Lok Sabha vote was not based on any people-centric issue. Polarisation and 'Chowkidar' were the issues. It is a minor crisis for our party. It has faced bigger crises. We will bounce back," West Bengal Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Tapas Roy said. While campaigning in West Bengal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that 40 MLAs from the Trinamool Congress were in touch with him. Reacting to Modi's claim, Trinamool Congress leader Derek O' Brien had boasted: "Nobody will go with you. Not even one councillor." Gurugram, May 28 : Taking cognisance of a viral video showing a woman being brutally assaulted by some policemen in Faridabad, the Haryana Police suspended two head constables and terminated three SPOs from service on Tuesday. The incident occurred at the Adarsh Nagar police station under Ballabhgarh zone in Faridabad in September last year. The accused head constables Baldev Singh and Rohit Kumar along with three Special Police Officers (SPOs) - Krishna Kumar, Harpal Singh and Dinesh Kumar - illegally held the woman captive and brutally assaulted her using belts. "The police personnel allegedly picked up the woman from a park in Adarsh Nagar area while she was interacting with a youth. She was taken to the police station and beaten up with belts which appeared in the viral video. We have immediately taken action against the alleged personnel under the law," said Rajesh Kumar, Ballabhgarh zone DCP. During investigation, it emerged that the youth who was with the victim escaped from the spot after the police raid. "We have managed to locate the house of the victim in Palwal district but she was not found there. The hunt is on to locate her and take her statement. So far, we have taken suo moto cognisance on the basis of the viral video," the DCP said. "We have suspended two head constables and terminated three SPOs with immediate effect after their guilt was established prima facie. All five accused have been arrested and produced in a local court which granted them bail. They have been booked under 323, 325 and 509 sections of IPC," the officer added. Jaipur, May 28 : Amid a looming leadership crisis in the Congress, the state party committee secretary Sushil Asopa on Tuesday shared a post on his facebook wall supporting Sachin Pilot as chief minister, bringing factionalism within the party to the fore. In his Facebook post, Asopa said the results in the Lok Sabha elections would have been different in Rajasthan had Congress leader Sachin Pilot been made chief minister. "No matter where you go in Rajasthan, there is just one voice that echoes: the election results would have been different had Pilot been made the chief minister. People have been saying that it was because of Pilot's efforts in the last five years that Congress MLAs won because the youth felt that Pilot would get a chance to lead this time," said his post. Meanwhile, state BJP vice-president Gyanchand Ahuja said, "I have heard that BSP MLAs are not happy in state and similar is the case with around 20-25 MLAs", he added. The comments of these two leaders have added fuel to the fire in the latest rounds of controversy surrounding leadership change in the state. On Monday, six BSP leaders supporting the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government had sought appointment with the Governor. However, the meeting was called off at the last moment. In the 200-member Rajasthan Assembly, the Congress has 100 members, BJP 73, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) 6, Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) 3, Communist Party of India-Marxist 2, Bharatiya Tribal Party (BTP) 2, the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) 1 and 13 Independent members. Also, state cabinet minister Lalchand Kataria's "resignation" -- which was neither confirmed by the CMO nor by the Governor -- went viral. Other minister, Ramesh Meena, has called for analysing the reasons for the party's rout in the Lok Sabha polls, saying the bureaucracy dominated the state government resulting in many welfare works remaining incomplete. Udai Lal Anjana, state cooperative minister, also questioned distribution of tickets and on the Congress not aligning with Hanuman Beniwal's Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP). He said that Vaibhav Gehlot, son of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, should have contested election from Jalore. New Delhi, May 28 : With Congress President Rahul Gandhi remaining steadfast on quitting his post in wake of the poll drubbing, hectic activities were witnessed on Tuesday to tide over the crisis amid questions over whether there will be a structural overhaul, starting from the top. Not only was the party in crisis at the central level, but its state units in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka also looked in disarray and vulnerable to a collapse. Led by his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, a host of party leaders met the angry and sulking Congress President at his residence through the day and Gandhi is believed to have conveyed to them that he could at best lead the party in Parliament as the chief of the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP). He is believed to have conveyed to the party leaders that he was "not running away" but wanted that someone else should lead the Congress, not necessarily from his family. Gandhi cited past examples when the party was led by leaders from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family, according to a senior leader. As he stayed firm on quitting, suggestions poured in noisily from other members that he should not do so but appoint a Working President or a Vice President to look after day-to-day functioning. Congress leaders said that if he had agreed to withdraw his resignation, there was scope for further discussion but because of his response there is no further progress on the matter. Besides Priyanka Gandhi, who stayed with her brother for most of the day, those who met Gandhi included party General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot and Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala. With Gandhi remaining adamant, a presidium system to govern the party is being considered, wherein a group of senior leaders will run the show. Party sources said Gandhi is unlikely to be the party leader in the Lok Sabha and the post may go to someone else as happened in the previous House. But he can be the CPP leader. Two senior Congress General Secretaries, whom IANS spoke to, said Gandhi was not willing to take the position of leader of the Congress in the lower House, which will not have the status of Leader of Opposition, a Cabinet rank, because of the lack of adequate numbers. They said that he was more eager to continue the ideological battle against the BJP and its mentor RSS in and outside Parliament. The leaders said Gandhi had taken the party's poor showing in the Lok Sabha elections personally and offered to step down as the Congress President and called for someone outside the Gandhi family to head the party. He has told senior leaders that he did not want to get into the appointments of state unit and district chiefs. The party is in deep crisis as resignations by senior leaders are piling up across the states ever since its poor show in the Lok Sabha polls in which it bagged only 52 seats in the 543-member House. The number is just 8 more than it got in the last Lok Sabha elections. Gandhi, in the wake of the party's poll debacle, had offered to resign during the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting held on Saturday last but it was unanimously rejected. The CWC, which is the party's top decision-making body, authorised him to make structural changes in the party. However, he has remained adamant on quitting the post and efforts are being made to convince him to change his position. Gandhi is particularly unhappy with Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot as he feels he did not do enough for the party to be able to score well in the Lok Sabha elections in the state where the Congress performed well in the Assembly polls and formed the government only six months back. He refused to meet Gehlot on Monday and asked him to meet Venugopal instead. On Tuesday, Gehlot went to Gandhi's residence and later met party Treasurer Ahmed Patel at the Congress office here before returning to Jaipur. The Congress is expected to call another CWC meeting within the next four days. Gandhi had blamed Gehlot and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath for devoting more time in the constituencies of their sons instead of doing more for the party in the elections. Senior Congress leader Pramod Tiwari, who met Priyanka Gandhi at Gandhi's residence on Tuesday, said this was not the time for Gandhi to resign but seek accountability from those who were given responsibility. "All those who are responsible should give their resignation and Rahul Gandhi should remain as the party president," Tiwari said while speaking to the media after the meeting. "Congress has faced such a debacle many a time and this party has the strength to come back and the party should be led by Rahul Gandhi and the Gandhi family," he added. Agartala/New Delhi, May 28 : Opposition CPI-M and Congress on Tuesday urged the BJP-led government in Tripura to stop unrelenting political violence against opposition party leaders and workers and restore rule of law. A six-member Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) legislature group led by opposition leader Manik Sarkar on Tuesday met Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb and requested him to stop political violence and restore normalcy in the state. On the other hand, the Congress has demanded Central paramilitary force, Assam Rifles, in Tripura. "We have told the Chief Minister to stop uninterrupted political violence that started since the BJP came to power on March 3 last year. Murders, attacks, looting, rioting, extortion, destructions of business establishments and properties are continuing," Sarkar told the media after meeting Deb. "Due to the unprecedented insecurity, the Election Commission had to defer the Lok Sabha election in Tripura East seat from April 18 to April 23 and held repolling in 168 polling stations in Tripura West seat," Sarkar said. Demanding Chief Minister's immediate intervention, Sarkar said that after the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government came to power in the state, "farcical elections" to the local bodies were held, entirely disallowing the participation of opposition parties. "During the counting of votes in the parliamentary polls across the state on May 23, over 60 counting agents of Left parties were evicted by the ruling BJP members in front of the security forces. After the declaration of Lok Sabha poll results, 20 more Left party offices were either burnt or destroyed by the ruling party members," said Sarkar, a Chief Minister for 20 years (1998-2018). "Over 700 CPI-M MLAs, elected leaders and others, including state secretary Gautam Das, were attacked several times by BJP goons. During the 14 months of BJP governance, seven CPI-M leaders and workers were assassinated," said Sarkar. A few days back, a Communist Party of India member Rabi Paul, 62, had committed suicide at Muhuripur in southern Tripura after the BJP members demanded Rs three lakhs from him as 'subscription'. "To celebrate the victories of BJP party, Rs ten thousand to Rs ten lakhs are being forcibly collected from many CPI-M supporters and businessmen. In New Delhi, Tripura Pradesh Congress President Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarman in a separate media briefing urged the central government to deploy central para-military Assam Rifles in Tripura to restore peace and normalcy in Tripura. "Tripura is a bordering state along Bangladesh. Internal disturbances in the state could create major troubles in the state. Due to the violence unleashed by the ruling party workers, the law and order situation has totally broken down. Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb, who also holds the home portfolio and state party President, remains totally inactive even as the people are being attacked by his party men," said Debbarman, who was accompanied by AICC spokesperson Pawan Khera and other leaders. Kolkata, May 28 : Warning of the rise of "divisive and communal forces" in West Bengal, Congress leader Pradip Bhattacharya on Tuesday said his party will keep fighting against these in the state as well as in the country. The Rajya Sabha member said that while Congress might have lost the 2019 elections to BJP, it was not a defeat of the party's ideology. "Communalism was never a part of Bengal's politics. But it has now entered in a big way. It is extremely unfortunate for us. We have to stop the rise of divisive and communal forces at any cost," Bhattacharya said at the state Congress headquarters here. "We believe that such polarisation will not work in the land of Bengal. We want to tell those who are trying to divide people along communal lines that Congress will fight against the divisive politics till the end, even if no one else does," he added. The Congress only managed to hold on to two Lok Sabha seats in Bengal in 2019, down from four five years ago while its vote share (5.61 percent) also witnessed a sharp decline. Bhattacharya said the state unit of the party will soon hold a working committee meeting to analyse the shortcomings and challenges, which resulted into this mandate. Referring to party President Rahul Gandhi's offer to resign which has been declined by the Congress Working Committee, he said the Bengal unit of the party also believes that Gandhi's "leadership and guidance" will help Congress in the challenging times. He also thanked the Left Front which did not field candidate in the two seats-- Baharampur and Malda South, where Congress emerged victorious in Bengal, even after the seat adjustment talks between the two parties collapsed ahead of the polls. New Delhi, May 28 : Congress President Rahul Gandhi, who won from Kerala's Wayanad seat in the recently-concluded Lok Sabha election, is likely to visit his constituency to thank the electorate at the end of this week or early next week, a party leader said on Tuesday. The senior party leader told IANS: "A programme of Rahul Gandhi is being finalised for his tour to Wayanad." He said the Congress chief during his visit to Wayanad will visit all the seven Assembly constituencies of Wayanad to thank the people. The leader said that Gandhi's visit is planned for either Saturday or Sunday or early next week. "However, his programme will be prepared once he gives the dates to us," he added. Gandhi had contested on two seats in this election. He won from Wayanad with a record margin of 4,31,770 votes. The Congress chief defeated his rival P.P. Suneer of the Communist Party of India who secured 2,74,597 votes. Gandhi received 7,06,367 votes. However, Gandhi lost from his family pocket borough in Amethi to BJP's Smriti Irani by a margin of 55,000 votes. Party general secretary K.C. Venugopal and other Kerala leaders on Monday handed over the certificate of victory from Wayanad on Monday at his residence. Bad Godesberg : Mindfulness trail planned in Kottenforst Bad Godesberg Want to leave everyday life behind? A mindfulness trail that the German Association for the Protection of Forests (SDW) wants to install in the Kottenforst in Bad Godesberg should help. With the aid of audio instructions, walkers will experience the forest with all their senses at six stations. Teilen Teilen Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Tweeten Tweeten Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Drucken An excursion into the forest can seem like a short holiday. Those entering the forest are taking a break, recovering and therefore doing something for their health. But it is often hard to leave everyday life behind. The mindfulness path that the German Association for the Protection of Forests (SDW) wants to install in the Kottenforst in Bad Godesberg should help. With the help of audio instructions, walkers will experience the forest with all their senses at six stations, explains SDW federal manager Christoph Rullmann. Bad Godesberg is to be a trailblazer. Once the project starts, it is planned to bring more cities on board. There are already prospective customers. We are just waiting for the start signal, says Rullmann. This could happen soon. The environment committee will decide on the proposal this Wednesday and on Wednesday 19 June, the Bad Godesberg district administration has the final word. 60 young people from throughout Europe developed the idea If the politicians agree, the idea that 60 young people from all over Europe developed in 2018 will become a reality, says Rullmann. At that time, the SDWs European Summer School Creating Forest Experiences took place, during which it was discussed how to implement new leisure time projects in and for forests. The result was the mindfulness path in Bonn. Not only is the SDW based in the federal city, there is also a lot of forest here, says Rullmann, explaining why Bad Godesberg was chosen. The focus is on six stations with various themes: seeing, hearing, smelling, walking, touching and breathing, explains Rullmann. They will be identified by signs with a QR code. Downloading these onto a mobile phone gives an audio commentary with either a male or female voice. This is how you are guided through the exercises, explains the SDW federal manager. You do not have to read anything, just listen and get involved in the meditation. According to Rullmann, the stations were developed in collaboration with psychologists. Small arrows will show the way and lead the walker on a two kilometre route through the forest for one and a half to two hours. According to the municipal draft resolution on which politicians will vote, the aim is to train your own mindfulness. The visit to the forest should therefore help with mindful behaviour in the forest and in everyday life and leave visitors with a positive feeling, says the administration. The signs and spoken texts have been developed so, that they can be used in every bit of forest in every German-speaking region. The project offers an ideal expansion of the current offers in the local city forest, says the administration. They want to link the mindfulness trail with the biodiversity trail at Venusberg. Kolkata, May 28 : The large-scale defection of municipal councillors and some legislators on Tuesday from the Trinamool Congress to the BJP may only be a trailer of the big picture that could unfold in West Bengal in the coming months, with state opposition leaders calling it the beginning of the end of the Mamata Banerjee-led outfit. Two Trinamool MLAs -- BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu Roy and Tushar Kanti Bhattacharya, the latter still officially a Congress legislator despite having ditched the party to join the Trinamool in 2016 -- one CPI-M legislator Debendra Nath Roy and over 50 councillors of three municipalities joined the saffron outfit in Delhi during the day. The immediate impact of the desertions is the Trinamool has lost control of the boards in Halishahar, Naihati and Kanchrapara municipalities in North 24 Parganas district. Halishahar and Kanchrapara are part of the Bijpur assembly segment, represented by Subhranghsu Roy. Naihati is a separate Assembly constituency. All three municipalities are part of the Barrackpore Lok Sabha seat, from where another defector from Trinamool to BJP, Arjun Singh, emerged victorious in the recent elections. Bahubali leader Singh, a four-time Trinamool legislator from Bhatpara, in fact added to his former party's misery during the day, as he organised the defection of eight Trinamool councillors of Bhatpara municipality to the BJP. The BJP, which now has 19 councillors in the 35-member municipality, is now set to capture the board. That makes it the loss of four municipalities on a single day, the second biggest shocker for Mamata Banerjee after the Lok Sabha election setback. But what could have further raised the blood pressure of Trinamool leaders is BJP leader Mukul Roy's comment that within the next two-three months, his party would take over 55-60 municipalities in the state. Coming from once considered an expert in engineering defections, the remarks could be an indicator of how the political scene could unravel in the coming days. Besides the two MLAs who joined on Tuesday, the names of a lot of Trinamool legislators are floating around as potential BJP recruits. Among them are Sabyasachi Dutta, Siuli Saha, Shilbhadra Dutta, Gautam Das and Sunil Singh. While the two Duttas and Saha are considered Mukul Roy loyalists, Singh is a relative of the new Barrackpore MP. Speaking off the record, Trinamool leaders express apprehensions of a deluge of defections from their ranks in the coming days. In fact, senior minister and Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim inadvertently described the deep crisis the Trinamool faces when he likened his party to a "ship rocked in the face of a storm" while comparing the deserters to "rats". "When a ship is rocked in the face of a storm, the rats jump into the sea without knowing their fate. The same is happening now. We are sure, those who are joining (BJP) are being forced to do so," he said. But Congress Rajya Sabha member Pradip Bhattacharya and CPI-M state secretariat member Shyamal Chakraborty were not ready to shed tears for Trinamool. Bhattacharya recalled the way the Trinamool had poached MLAs, municipal councillors, panchayat functionaries from CPI-M and the Congress in the past to take control of elected bodies. "They are being paid back in their own coin. The Trinamool had started its journey and consolidated itself by breaking the Congress. Now it has started coming apart. And that is natural," Bhattacharya told IANS. "Trinamool will collapse fast," Chakraborty told IANS. However, state Congress vice president Om Prakash Mishra had a different take. "BJP's expansionism could not only be socially divisive and politically destabilising, it would also have negative consequences for the state. I condemn the forced and dangerous expansionism of BJP facilitated by the employment of ill-gotten wealth of the BJP leadership," he told IANS. Bhopal, May 28 : Jyotiraditya Scindia's defeat in Lok Sabha elections continues to hurt his supporters in Madhya Pradesh. While all party members stood by Kamal Nath as chief minister, some members talked about sabotage in Gwalior-Chambal region. Crash of key leaders in the Lok Sabha elections has thrown up a leadership crisis. Who will now lead the organization in the state? Chief Minister Kamal Nath is also the PCC chief for over a year. The party sidestepped the PCC leadership issue after assembly elections to focus on Lok Sabha elections. But the Scindia camp will not let it pass. The party will struggle to find someone acceptable to all. Now that the elections are over, there is a fresh demand for Scindia to be made the PCC chief. Party treasurer Govind Goyal has also criticised the chief minister for not sparing enough time for the organisation. Scindia was the campaign manager of the party in the last year's assembly elections. His supporters had last year suggested he was a better face to invest in for the chief ministerial candidate. There are others who say Kamal Nath has already proved his mettle in the assembly elections. The circumstances were very different in the Lok Sabha elections. This is the first time in three generations that no member from Scincia family will be a member of the Lok Sabha. Jyotiraditya was humbled by his fan and follower till recent times, K.P. Yadav, with a big difference of 1.2 lakh votes. Pictures of Scindia wiping his tears will remain etched in his supporters' minds. Congress president Rahul Gandhi's recent remarks obliquely suggesting Kamal Nath, P.C. Chidambaram and Ashok Gehlot's extra care for sons has revived murmurs against the leadership in Madhya Pradesh. Kamal Nath was quick to scotch the speculation about his possible resignation as PCC chief. The party spokesperson Shobha Ojha said there was no such proposal. Meanwhile, there are reports of state Assembly speaker N.P. Prajapati's displeasure over pruning of security. This opens up a new front for the chief minister to fight on. There was a reshuffle of the security which did not go down well with the Speaker who referred to the Speaker being better looked after in the neighbouring Chhattsgarh. The government sought to ward off the crisis saying the issue was caused by the model code of conduct for the recent elections. Jaipur, May 28 : Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot on Tuesday insisted that there was no question of him leaving the Congress at a time when there was speculation about his role in the party in case Congress President Rahul Gandhi quits. Speaking to IANS, Pilot said, "This is a crucial time for the party and there was no question of me leaving the party." Earlier in the day, Congress sources told IANS that with Congress chief himself mulling over his resignation, Pilot's future hangs in the balance in Rajasthan. Party sources said Rahul Gandhi was instrumental in making Pilot the state Congress chief in 2014. After the Assembly polls late last year, Pilot was made Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's deputy. However, since then, Rajasthan Congress was being run by two power centres, one led by Chief Minister Gehlot and other by Pilot respectively. Post-Lok Sabha debacle with Congress scoring not a single seat, both Gehlot and Pilot have been camping in Delhi. Rahul Gandhi had already expressed his displeasure with Gehlot for putting his son before the party during elections and speculation was rife over whether there could be a leadership change in the state. Meanwhile, the party has called a meeting on Wednesday in which reasons of defeat in the Lok Sabha elections will be evaluated. Also, a proposal will be passed for Rahul Gandhi to continue as national Congress president, party sources said. State party in-charge Avinash Pandey will chair the meeting and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and deputy CM Sachin Pilot are likely to be present in the meeting. Japan-based global fashion retailer Muji, has signed a lease in Melbourne's CBD at the historic Scottish House building on William Street, just ahead of the opening of their biggest Australian store at Chadstone in August. Samuel Friend and Stephen Land of Fitzroys negotiated the lease five-year deal with two three-year options. Set over 292 sqm on Level 5 at 90 William Street, the lease was signed for $116,000 per annum with 4% annual increases on behalf of The Australian Club. Friend said Muji needed a larger Australian head office as it embarks on a major expansion and wanted a CBD location. The new 1,700 sqm store will offer Mujis popular minimalist-style clothing, bedding, skincare and stationery, as well as a new range of furniture available in Australia for the first time; workshops and interactive events; a Muji Books offering, and self-serve coffee bar. Friend said the Scottish House space attracted more than 80 enquiries, with law firms, finance companies, not-for-profits, accounting firms, marketing agencies and major transport operators all keen on the space. Major commercial developments through the CBDs western corridor are attracting a broader range of tenants to this part of the city, beyond law firms seeking offices close to the legal precinct, he said. Scottish House is just metres from the dual-tower, office, hotel and residential Collins Arch development at 447 Collins Street, on the corner of William Street, as well as Mirvacs Olderfleet project at 477 Collins Street, which will bring more than 52,000sqm of new office space. A three bedroom one bathroom Dallas, Victoria House is set to go under the mortgagee auction hammer June 8. The previously updated rendered brick home comes with an indicative price guide of $440,000 - $480,000. Andrew Butler and Anthony Monteleone of Brad Teal hold the listing. Situated at 13 King Street, the property is described as "ideal for homebuyers looking to enter the market, renovate/extend, rebuild or redevelop (STCA)". Set on 642 sqm, it features an undercover outdoor area and backyard as well as a one car lockup garage. Located within a short drive from Dallas and Broadmeadows Shopping Centres, Ilim College, primary schools, buses and Hume Highway, the home features an open plan layout. Last sold in 2005 the home transacted for $180,000. The median price for a home in Dallas is $487,500 according to CoreLogic, which calculate its annual change in median price over the past 10 years as 7.5%. "Partnering with ProPrep gives colleges and universities greater access to resources that can increase students' interest in STEM courses, help them visualize and practice the subjects, and improve learning outcomes," said Blicht. Broadening access to specialized content and course materials, Ambassador Education Solutions today announced an exclusive partnership with ProPrep, which provides STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) content and study guides to help students master curriculum. The partnership empowers educators to supplement their print and digital course materials with customized content they can integrate into their courses to further engage and inspire students. "According to the Smithsonian Science Education Center, there are approximately 2.4 million unfilled STEM jobs in our country," said Steven M. Blicht, CEO of Ambassador Education Solutions. "Tackling this opportunity and demand head on, students should have access to the tools and technologies that will help them succeed in their STEM programs. Partnering with ProPrep gives colleges and universities greater access to resources that can increase students' interest in STEM courses, help them visualize and practice the subjects, and improve learning outcomes." ProPrep allows educators to create content collections that align with their own syllabus, as well as the textbook or eBook they have selected for their course. Faculty can specify which kinds of videos and which specific topics they want to include. Led by top lecturers and academics, ProPrep's library includes more than 60,000 STEM tutorials. "Each of our videos and study guides are designed with student preferences and learning goals in mind - much the same way Ambassador approaches the course materials experience for students," said Itay Koppel, co-founder of ProPrep. "Our content serves as a great complement to the already robust course materials that Ambassador manages and delivers, fostering deeper understanding and improved grades for students." Ambassador is the exclusive distributor of ProPrep's video content and study guides for career schools in the United States. Ambassador simplifies the adoption, management and delivery process, helping faculty evaluate and select the right content; managing access and licenses; and facilitating delivery to students through a school's online bookstore, inclusive access model or other fulfillment channel such as a hybrid solution. Ambassador brings everything together in a simplified, streamlined and measurable way. "At Ambassador, we are always looking for innovative ways to improve the teaching and learning experience. An ideal complement to print and digital materials, OER and more, ProPrep's content gives educators and students more opportunities to connect with their STEM courses and thrive," noted Blicht. About Ambassador Education Solutions Ambassador creates and manages customized content integration programs that connect students with course materials in the most meaningful and effective way, driving down costs and improving outcomes. Integrated with leading SIS, LMS, eBook readers, publishers, and Ambassadors Digital Content Platform, we simplify the adoption, management and delivery of textbooks, eBooks, digital resources, custom content, OER, access codes, online testing, supplies, kits, devices and more. We provide an exceptional student experience, lower your operational and financial risk, and deliver key intelligence to measure and enhance programs. For more information, please visit http://www.ambassadored.com. About ProPrep ProPrep values achievement, commitment, creativity, practice and learning. Our team works around the clock to provide quality materials from esteemed academic leaders to support the learning process for students around the world. With over 60,000 videos and limitless options for course customization, students receive clear explanations on the content. The result is deeper understanding of material, improved problem-solving techniques, and better grades. For more information, please visit https://www.proprep.com/. AquaGuard co-owners, Tom DiGregorio and Joe Rusk, and the team honored at Cobb Countys Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year. Ill never stop feeling honored and humbled by the awards we receive, knowing they are a result of our team of now 250+ people, their effort, hard work, and dedication to doing the right things for the right reasons. The Cobb Chamber of Commerce named AquaGuard a 2019 Top 25 Small Business of the Year Finalist at the Chambers May 6th awards ceremony for innovation, sound approach to organizational challenges, and positive impact on the community. At the Awards breakfast, AquaGuard Founder and Co-Owner, Tom DiGregorio, said that, Ill never stop feeling honored and humbled by the awards we receive, knowing they are a result of our team of now 250+ people, their effort, hard work, and dedication to doing the right things for the right reasons. Tom expanded with, Those reasons are clearly conveyed by AquaGuards Core Values values by which we proudly live, hire and fire. My proudest accomplishment to date is not the incredible and consistent growth weve experienced the past few years, but the fact that weve done it with a company culture thats stronger than when we had 50 employees! Thats no small feat, and its a result of our employees committing to coming to work each day building our reputation, never relying on it. AquaGuard provides homeowners with sensible solutions for waterproofing, foundation, and concrete support. Vice President and Co-Owner, Joe Rusk, goes on to tell us that, At its core, AquaGuard exists as a service contractor with integrity thats driven to make the extraordinary, ordinary. Its accountable to its employees, its customers, and the communities in which its employees work and live, and the company remains selfless in its pursuit to serve others. Joe says that, As co-owners Tom and I feel strongly that our companies purpose is to provide peace of mind to its customers, its employees, and the communities it represents. We are so proud of all the small businesses that make up such an integral part of our community, said Cobb Chamber President and CEO Sharon Mason. The quality of the businesses, the work theyre doing in the community, the great jobs theyre bringingit all goes toward making Cobb County a vibrant and successful place to live, work and play. Tom DiGregorio chuckles Ive heard it said that 'culture eats strategy for lunch,' and we believe that. Sustaining a positive and impactful culture allows us to be inspired both individually continually and as a team to help our customers, our community and ourselves, and to be and do the best we can. You see with us, everything truly matters. This award reinforces that Joe and I plus our entire team appreciate the Cobb Chamber for recognizing our efforts to provide peace of mind to those we serve." To be considered for the Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year, organizations submit an application to the Cobb Chamber. Applicants must prove an increase in sales or unit volume, provide examples of innovation, discuss adversity and challenges, and thoroughly detail their community involvement. Applications are analyzed and considered by a group of independent community business leaders and affiliates of the Small Business Administration, with the five finalists being awarded a 30-minute office tour and presentation opportunity to showcase what sets them apart. Click here to see the full list of 2019s Cobb Chamber Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year. About AquaGuard Foundation Solutions For more than two decades, Atlanta and North Georgia homeowners have trusted AquaGuard with their waterproofing, foundation repair, concrete leveling, and gutter replacement needs. The regions exclusive, authorized dealer for Contractor Nation, Supportworks, and GutterShutter waterproofing, structural repair, concrete repair, and covered gutter system products, AquaGuard repairs more than 120 homes per week. It offers nationally-backed, fully-transferable, industry-leading warranties in most cases for the life-of-structure a Price Assurance Guarantee, and is one of the only waterproofing contractors in Georgia that staffs a full-time, dedicated Service Department for any post-installation issues that may arise. About the Cobb Chamber As one of the most influential business advocacy organizations in Georgia, the Cobb Chamber is dedicated to bringing the community and its leaders together to create jobs and strengthen the economy and quality of life so businesses and the community can achieve more. The Chamber achieves this by creating jobs and driving economic development; strengthening the community and the region; growing member businesses and nurturing leadership; and connecting businesses, government, and the community. Boardwalk Ferrari Maserati We have been impressed by the added value and transparency that AutoiPacket brings to our clients and shoppers. AutoiPacket announces its recent installation at two luxury dealerships, Boardwalk Ferrari and Boardwalk Maserati in Plano,Texas. The company is pleased to build on its already existing relationship with the respected Boardwalk Auto Group, a premier luxury dealer across the nation. In 2017, the two companies first teamed up at Lamborghini Dallas. With the addition of two more Boardwalk Auto Group dealerships to its customer base, AutoiPackets leadership is eager to see its products and services continue to deliver. AutoiPacket President Seve Astorg underscored the companys perspective: Were excited to continue to expand our partnership with Boardwalk Auto Group. AutoiPacket was designed to give dealers a platform to provide a more transparent vehicle shopping experience; its rewarding to see our dealer partners finally realize a true ROI on their pre-owned reconditioning and integrity. The shift to transparency in automotive is here to stay, and were proud to be on the leading edge of that movement. AutoiPackets cutting-edge software helps dealers get ahead in an ever-competitive market. With user-friendly digital information portfolios and built-in social sharing options at their disposal, sales teams at Boardwalk Auto Group can provide a more transparent and value-focused shopping experience. We have been impressed by the added value and transparency that AutoiPacket brings to our clients and shoppers. Our sales team members have been thrilled to be able to follow up with such a professional presentation provided by AutoiPacket, said Jack Weinzierl, Vice President of Marketing at Boardwalk Auto Group. About AutoiPacket Founded in 2012, AutoiPacket is an innovator in the automotive sales industry, providing digital portfolios with comprehensive information on every vehicle in a dealers inventory. Easily accessed and social-share ready, these digital packets support streamlined sales and increased profits. Visit autoipacket.com or find us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. My Million Dollar Mom, a film shot in the Philadelphia area and based on Ross Schriftmans book by the same name, has been accepted to screen at the New York Shorts International Film Festival (https://www.nyshorts.net), which will run from May 31 to June 6, 2019. This is the third film festival that will screen My Million Dollar Mom in the past year, said Schriftman. "Im both thrilled that the film will be seen by more people and grateful to our wonderful cast, crew, production and marketing teams and supporters who have made this film possible." To see a schedule of when this and other films in the New York Shorts International Film Festival, go to: https://www.nyshorts.net/film-program-1. The film, directed by Kevin Hackenberg, stars veteran film and television actors Pete Postiglione and Susan Moses and was inspired by real events in Schriftmans life. Moses portrays an aging mom diagnosed with Alzheimers and Postiglione portrays her son Ross, who steps forward to care for her. At the same time, he is offered a last-chance opportunity to run for Congress. He must decide between his life-long dream and his moms wishes to remain in her home under his care. The life lesson of caring for one another through Tikkun Olam (the Hebrew expression for repairing the world) is the theme of the film. For information about the film, visit http://www.mymilliondollarmom.com. About My Million Dollar Mom: Based on the book of the same name by Ross Schriftman, My Million Dollar Mom is a film about a loving mother who is diagnosed with Alzheimer's and the devoted son who steps forward to care for her. Schriftmans production company is partnering with the Dementia Society of America in an effort to promote awareness and encourage people to plan for the possibility of needing long term care services. Schriftman screens the film in the Philadelphia area and holds discussions with audiences about the issues surrounding Alzheimers and other forms of dementia. Schriftmans ultimate goal is to release the film to a worldwide audience. This film is directed by Kevin Hackenberg, who began his career working on the M. Night Shyamalan films The Sixth Sense and Unbreakable. He went on to establish the production company Get-Kinetic in 2003 in Philadelphia, where he and his staff create visual content for clients as varied as Temple University and NBC10 in Philadelphia. For information about the film visit http://www.mymilliondollarmom.com, http://www.facebook.com/mymilliondollarmom or contact Ross Schriftman at mymilliondollarmom(at)gmail(dot)com. About the New York Shorts International Film Festival: Established in 2016, the New York Shorts International Film Festival showcases short films from both established and emerging independent filmmakers. Events include receptions and workshops with film industry experts. The founders of New York Shorts feel that short form cinema and its creators deserve the kind of recognition given to the feature film and its creators. To learn more, visit to https://www.nyshorts.net. Editor's Note: Interviews are available with Ross Schriftman, cast and crew members. To schedule an interview, please contact Debbie Goetz of Debbie Goetz Media Connections at 215-630-5408 or by email at dgoetz(at)dgmediaconnections(dot)com. The new BioFit corporate website features a fresh branding design with a focus on the companys most popular products, a responsive user-friendly interface, product comparison functionality and more. The all-new biofit.com is the culmination of detailed analysis of customer site use and sales trends combined with the implementation of todays top technology and best online practices. BioFit Engineered Products, a globally recognized manufacturer of ergonomic seating solutions, recently launched a brand new corporate website. Highlights of biofit.com include a fresh branding design with a focus on the companys most popular products, a responsive user-friendly interface, product comparison functionality and more, resulting in an enhanced, efficient and informative user experience. The new BioFit website simplifies the process of sourcing and selecting ergonomic seating, mobile folding tables and library and industrial carts for work and learning environments. Developed for easy use and a consistent experience across mobile and desktop platforms alike, the site emphasizes BioFits most popular products, providing detailed specifications and resources on models including over 70 models from its next-day and two-day quick-ship program. Those users seeking a custom solution can build and request quotes via an updated version of the sites chair configurator the first in the seating industry when it was originally launched nearly 15 years ago. Plus, a newly implemented product comparison function allows users to simultaneously compare up to four different models, helping ensure they choose the exact product to meet their requirements, even for the most technical workspaces. The site puts a comprehensive support package at users fingertips as well, allowing easy access to contact information for the sales or manufacturer's representative for their respective areas, the companys administrator for GSA, state government and educational procurement contracts, and the BioFit customer service team. Ready access to resources including product use and assembly videos, catalogs and data sheets is also available. According to LouAnn Evans, BioFit Vice President of Sales and Marketing, The all-new biofit.com is the culmination of detailed analysis of customer site use and sales trends combined with the implementation of todays top technology and best online practices. Its long been our objective to project a web presence and deliver a user experience commensurate with the quality and innovation for which our products are known, and were confident the new site hits the mark. Ohio-based BioFit Engineered Products designs and manufacturers LEED-compliant ergonomic chairs and stools, GREENGUARD-certified cafeteria tables, carts and accessories for healthcare, laboratory, technology, office, education and industrial environments as well as custom applications. All products are manufactured in the USA. BioFit strives to improve the workplace experience through innovation, ergonomic performance and reliability. For more information, visit http://www.biofit.com or call 800.597.0246. HR Hero Weve brought on a strong customer base of HR Hero users, representing a wide range of industries, and are poised to grow our subscribers substantially. BLR, a Simplify Compliance brand, announced the celebration of the 1-year anniversary of HR Hero, the organizations premier compliance and workflow platform for human resources. Marking the celebration was a significant release of additional product features for subscribers. HR Heros launch in 2018 heralded in a new era of employment law compliance and HR team workflow support, inspired by 40+ years of providing employment law compliance to thousands of organizations. Our compliance and workflow solutions in the last 40 years can be summed up by one word: trust, related Chief Product Officer David Cella. Customer feedback told us we needed to deliver our trusted content and tools in a modern, team-based solution with an enhanced user experience. Thus, HR Hero was born. HR Hero was crafted around a customizable dashboard and updated navigation that allows users to quickly access the tools and information they need to support the HR function. Powerful and upgraded tools were developed into the platform to execute essential tasks like building and updating employee handbooks and job descriptions. Upgraded state and federal topic analysis, report building tools, search functionality, and content upgrades were all a strong focus of the product development process. We are very excited with what weve accomplished in the last year, said Cella. Weve brought on a strong customer base of HR Hero users, representing a wide range of industries, and are poised to grow our subscribers substantially. In addition to a robust launch, the HR Hero product team has continued to push innovation with feature releases. The newest release has added an updated salary finder tool with data from over 40,000 jobs, sample policies, an impressive list of compliance eBooks, and weekly subscriber email alerts. To celebrate the anniversary, BLR is offering a 15% discount for new subscribers through the end of June. Those interested should call 800-727-5257 to speak with a solutions expert. About BLR BLR (Business & Legal Resources), a Simplify Compliance brand, helps U.S. businesses comply with state and federal legal requirements. In-house experts and an exclusive attorney network provide comprehensive, reliable state-specific information for businesses in all 50 states. Award-winning products and solutionsincluding training programs, events, online solution suites, reports, and subscription servicesgive businesses of all sizes and industries the best tools available at affordable prices. For more information on their offerings, visit http://www.BLR.com. About Simplify Compliance Simplify Compliance helps its customers learn, comply, and succeed by providing mission-critical regulatory and business information, analysis, and tools. Serving a range of industries, including healthcare, human capital management, and telecommunications, Simplify Compliance provides time-saving products and solutions that help U.S.-based businesses and their employees monitor compliance, optimize financial performance, and create and implement best practices. For more information on their offerings, visit http://www.SimplifyCompliance.com. Celebrate women's achievement. Raise awareness against bias. Take action for equality. Past News Releases RSS Adventure tourism has continued to increase dramatically in the past several years and with it so have the number of women who opt for outdoor-oriented holidays in exotic locations instead of run-of-the-mill tropical beach vacations. The stereotype that women cannot or should not tackle extreme physical challenges in faraway places is being dispelled quite clearly. One destination that is seeing its fair share of female visitors is Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. As the worlds tallest freestanding mountain, it stands 19,341 feet above sea level is a demanding hike due to the extreme elevation. Peak Planet, a professional guide company on Mount Kilimanjaro, has observed the increase in the female climbers over the years. "When we first started operating more than ten years ago, our climbs were comprised of approximately 30% women," said Dana Wentzel, Executive Director of Peak Planet. "The current balance of male and female clients is essentially equal. Furthermore, we have found that the sex of the climber has no bearing on the summit success rate whatsoever." In short, women can achieve just as much as men on Kilimanjaro. To celebrate International Womens Day, Peak Planet has opened a women-only group climb. The adventure begins on March 1, 2020, and summits on International Women's Day, March 8, 2020, using the beautiful and unspoiled Lemosho Route. This is an ideal trip for solo female travelers and women who want to meet like-minded, active people like themselves. Growing up, I was consistently bombarded with the message you cant do that simply because I was a woman. Traveling and exploring nature in the process helped me realize that I can, said Rhonda Sommer, a 29-year-old trail runner who recently returned from her successful climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. "I think all women can benefit from doing something big like climbing Kilimanjaro. It does wonders for your confidence which affects all aspects of life." Nancy Porter, who has also climbed Kilimanjaro, said, When my children left home and my husband decided he was done with long distance travel, I decided to go it alone. Best thing I ever did." As an experienced hiker, she stated that Kilimanjaro was her most ambitious climb. More than pleased with her performance, Porter, who is retired, is looking for more challenges. "Kili was going to be my swan song, but the experience was so amazing and so rewarding that Im planning another long-distance trek at altitude, she stated. Climbing Kilimanjaro does have risks. It is reported that half of those who attempt to summit fail. The primary reason is due to acute mountain sickness, which can occur when the body fails to adapt quickly enough to low oxygen levels at high altitudes. Peak Planet's guides conduct health checks twice daily to ensure the safety of the climbers. Measurements of pulse rate and oxygen saturation are taken, as well as body temperature and blood pressure. Having this data helps the guides assess how well a person is coping with the altitude. Our health protocols are second to none, said Wentzel. From certified Wilderness First Responders to emergency oxygen and helicopter evacuation, no other climbing company provides such a comprehensive safety program. To learn more about Peak Planets women-only International Women's Day climb in 2020, visit https://peakplanet.com. ABOUT PEAK PLANET Peak Planet has been setting the standard for climbing Kilimanjaro since 2008. As one of the few specialist companies organizing high-quality Mount Kilimanjaro climbs, Peak Planet is consistently recognized as one of the best operators on Kilimanjaro. I am very pleased to see this transition of the Slant Collections business to an accomplished gift industry leader who places as much value on customer service as they do to original graphic art. Creative Brands of Phoenix, AZ has acquired the renowned Slant Collections brand of San Francisco, CA from the Pacific Market International (PMI). Slant Collections was founded in 1994 by Mark Towery and Leslie Miller in San Francisco, CA in response to specialty gift retailers growing demands for innovative party goods and private label custom hydration products. For the last twenty-five years Slant Collections has solidified its position as the market leader in beverage napkins, coffee mugs, wine glasses and water bottles that differentiate the firm in the marketplace. The key to the Slant Collections success has been its imaginative product groupings, incorporating trend savvy designs with original type fonts and leading-edge packaging. I am very pleased to see this transition of the Slant Collections business to an accomplished gift industry leader who places as much value on customer service as they do to original graphic art. Creative Brands shares the vision for Slant Collections and understands the specialty gift retailers needs. This team is well versed with the needs of our industry and can help grow this brand in all channels of distribution, said Mr. Randy Eller, President of Eller Enterprises, who acted as a strategic advisor in the transaction to Creative Brands. With the Creative Brands resources, and the help of their field sales force, telemarketing staff and sophisticated web presence, I firmly believe Slant Collections will continue to grow profitably and offer their customers the highest quality products and superior customer service that our industry has come to expect. Creative Brands, a division of the CBC Group, was founded in 1948, and is a distribution, importing and manufacturing firm with six distinct brands selling to an assortment of retailers across the country. Recent acquisitions include Heartfelt, Santa Barbara Design Studio, Stephan Baby and 47th & Main. In addition, the Faithworks and the Lets Light it Up brands round out their gift offerings to the specialty gift market. Paul DiGiovanni, President of Creative Brands, said, We are thrilled to acquire the wonderful Slant Collections brand and look forward to not only growing the business but enriching and nurturing the brand impression. We would like to build upon the combined vision and hard work of both Leslie Miller and Mark Towery to build this distinctive gift brand and we look forward to offering this unique grouping of quality products to our customer base while getting to know all the new customers of the Slant Collections. Creative Brands, a division of the CBC Group, is headquartered in Phoenix Arizona with manufacturing facilities, a call center and a distribution center in Lewisburg, TN and offices in Hong Kong, Ningbo, China and Manila, Philippines. 61 percent of all online sales derive from smartphones, which shows the importance of well-designed websites that work well on every device. DesignRush.com, a B2B marketplace connecting brands with agencies, researched the best eCommerce development firms who can create and build highly-functional platforms optimized for both desktop and mobile devices. DesignRushs Agency Listing section features the best local and global eCommerce website design and development companies. Some of the top eCommerce design and development agencies from around the world include: 1. BCP Design BCP Design understands that businesses make the world better. However, many businesses potential impact is stifled by wasting money and time with people who dont get why they exist or how to get them results. BCP provides access to the most effective marketing available anywhere. They define strategies and launch campaigns that get results. They have helped companies increase their revenue and impact. https://www.bcp-design.com/ 2. Codedesign Codedesign is a data-driven digital marketing agency focused on growing businesses online. From custom web development to 360 online marketing, they create digital strategies designed to help brands define and achieve their most valuable business goals. Codedesigns bespoke approach is aimed at finding the best digital solution to fit each of their clients unique brand identity and online customer journey. They use a combination of the main digital disciplines (Search Engine Optimization, Paid Search Marketing, Display Marketing and Remarking, Organic and Paid Social Media, Content Marketing, and Data Analytics) to build holistic strategies focused on building brand awareness and driving conversions. https://codedesign.org/ 3. Endertech Endertechs team of savvy, creative, and certified developers specialize in custom website design and development plus on-going site maintenance, cloud hosting and security. They strive to produce elegant coding and UI/UX design, deliver efficient production to match their clients timelines, and pride themselves on responsive communication with clients. https://endertech.com/ 4. 4por4 | creative agency Living in a symbiosis between the use of new technologies and the human perspective associated with creativity, 4por4 creative agency presents innovative, responsible, and adjusted solutions to all the requirements. They have created and managed communication supports (online and offline) since 2002, and their experience tells them that the proper development of a brand or company strategy is critical to obtaining the appropriate results. Thats why all of their solutions and projects are developed from scratch based on the needs and characteristics of each client. https://www.4por4.pt/ 5. Fullestop Fullestop is a leading website design, web development and mobile app development company in India with positive reviews from fortune 100 companies to startups. They deliver on their promises to bring client success! https://www.fullestop.com 6. Galaxy Weblinks Inc. As a global enterprise with offices across in the U.S., South America, Australia and Asia, Galaxy Weblinks has the expertise, development bench, and digital marketing services to scale to meet virtually any business requirement. Galaxy Weblinks has been providing custom website design and development for web or mobile since 1990. Galaxy Weblinks provides a number of white label development, design, and technology support services to digital agencies of all sizes and shapes. https://www.galaxyweblinks.com/ 7. Grad Agency Grad Agency is a website developer, designer, marketer, and top-notch quality all bundled together in a coherent and transparent package. With continuous updates to each project status and an ability to work with brands as closely as possible, clients are promised to be satisfied. https://grad-agency.com/ 8. *instinctools Company Brands need developers, and *instinctools adds to their engineering power. They provide dedicated teams of specialists matching each clients individual technology stack, ready to join any software project and development process. https://www.instinctools.com/ 9. Intelivita Intelivita is a leading digital transformation company based in Leeds, UK. Intelivita provides concept-driven interactive and scalable software development solutions for businesses to streamline the work process and inmove customer engagement. They are experts in providing effective and innovative enterprise mobile applications, eCommerce solutions, augmented reality, virtual reality, mixed reality, web applications and 2D/3D mobile games. Intelivita flourishes in understanding and meeting client expectations by delivering exceptional service well within the set milestone. With 5+ years of industry experience, they have attained the high-volume credibility in enterprise application development. The dynamic team of Intelivita is well equipped in dealing with clients from small startups to MNC like Microsoft. To date, Intelivita has executed more than 100+ projects successfully serving 50+ clients worldwide. Their global client base has reached the USA, UK, Australia, United Arab Emirates, Canada, Spain, France, Israel, India, Thailand, Nigeria, Turkey, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong. https://www.intelivita.co.uk/ 10. Itransition Itransition helps large, medium-sized companies and startups to design, develop and evolve software that supplies their ad-hoc needs and brings ideas to life. From business process inquiry and modeling to systems engineering, they provide tailored services to enable integrated digital enterprise, where all systems work as a whole. Clients receive ECM, EDM, ERP, CRM and custom apps, that solve enterprise integrity, communication and collaboration problems and increase employee productivity. Besides, they help to anticipate users expectations across every interaction, be it a tiny website or a BI-geared web portal. Itransitions team implements scalable backends with user segmentation, content personalization and social features on top, to provide for seamless device-agnostic experience while giving customer engagement analytics for decision-making. https://www.itransition.com 11. Kontra Agency Kontra Agency is built on trust their clients have in them. The ultimate goal is to provide every client with that feeling. How do they do it? With a serious approach to work and with the orientation to results. Just because everybody does something one way, it doesnt mean its the way to do it. Thats why their slogan is: Turning things around. The driving force behind their successful business story is in the strive for providing better results. Its not easy to describe the team, so Kontra does it in a single word: Focus. Its their fundamental guiding principle, and its enabling them to provide the first-class experience. https://kontra.agency/ 12. On Purpose Projects As the leader of a professional services business, On Purpose Projects knows how difficult it can be to stand out from the competition in a noisy marketplace. In talking to business leaders every day, they know that brands worry about lost revenue and not looking professional or credible because of an outdated website. Despite that, most business owners avoid redesigning and rebuilding their website simply because they don't think they have the time and energy to deal with all the work that they expect would be involved. But On Purpose Projects has created proprietary systems and processes to get a new website planned, designed, developed and delivered in a way that is painless time efficient and on budget. They are here to lead the project every step of the way and help clients create a modern, professional website that will help them capitalize on their credibility, deepen trust with prospects and stay competitive - with zero headaches. https://onpurposeprojects.com/ 13. Oomph, Inc. Being distinctive in the digital age is a multi-dimensional challenge. Oomph blends expertise in strategy, design, and technology to deliver integrated digital solutions that express purpose, enhance value, and make first impressions that become lasting ones. As strategic collaborators, Oomph dives deep to absorb clients world, ways, and wantsand those of their customers. Oomph uncovers brands emotional connections with audiences and develops a digital strategy that aligns with the purpose and goals at the heart of every business. As designers, they balance the aesthetics and the utility that realize compelling and effective creative expressions. Oomph uses research and best practices to create an authentic digital experience that educates, resonates, and communicates. As engineers, Oomph lives and breathes the details, the science, the constructive thinking required to architect the best solution. They know that speed, performance, and security are critical to success. They build to scale for the future. Finally, as a long-term digital partner, Oomph knows the best websites are never done. Thats why they dont leave clients after the launch. From performance assessments to feature enhancements, Oomph continually monitors, refines, and optimizes each digital presence for an improved experience and better results. https://www.oomphinc.com/ 14. Optima Ninja In business, innovation is what drives growth. Optima Ninja knows what it takes to be successful in a competitive economy with a creative web design that converts traffic to leads. Their full-stack development team offers services such as WordPress website design, code-from-scratch development, enterprise resource planning system (ERP), mobile app development, and more. Optima Ninja knows that first impressions are critical. But a good design will help a business to establish its presence and promote growth. https://optimaninja.com/ 15. Pengreen Design Pengreen Design offers UX/UI design services for small companies, mainly working with long-term partners to help them deliver better experiences to their clients, with a small but focused and highly experienced team of designers. Their team works remotely and with flexible hours, making the company 100% digital and that doesn't stay local. Therefore, Pengreen Design is able to handle projects of clients worldwide. They have been working with companies from several countries, such as United States, Australia, Spain, Czech Republic, Sweden, Canada, South Africa, and of course Brazil. https://www.pengreendesign.com/ 16. Promodo Promodo is a leading international performance agency in Central and Eastern Europe that helps in-house marketing teams of medium and large e-commerce companies to deliver better results. Their team of over 200 experts helps clients from 60 countries to promote businesses in developed and emerging markets across the globe. Promodo employs its cutting-edge proprietary software and know-how to increase ROI of marketing campaigns, boost conversion rates, grow SEO and email marketing efficiency in a transparent and measurable way. https://www.promodo.com/ 17. RBD Digital Marketing Agency RBD is a Digital Marketing Agency that provide Custom Website Services, Search Engine Marketing, SEO Optimization and Social Media Marketing that innovate and help businesses grow. They know that businesss online presences are important and it is important to them too. RBD works hard to turn every clients vision into a reality and make sure that their site is top shelf. RBD believes that innovation is the future and it begins right here, with RBD. https://www.rbdwebdev.com/ 18. ROXO ROXO is a digital agency specializing in strategy, design and technology. They create digital products and immersive experiences for forward-thinking brands. They establish meaningful and lasting relationships between businesses and consumers. They are a team of digital enthusiasts who are passionate about building brands for the better. https://www.roxo.agency/ 19. Shawn DeWolfe Consulting Shawn DeWolfe Consulting does WordPress, ClassicPress and Drupal site deployments. He builds the smarts into each brands system. He creates flexible, durable and effective solutions. Outside of web design, Shawn DeWolfe Consulting has almost two decades of IT work (hardware support, database development, app development, project management) and has experience reaching back into the 1980s. Shawn DeWolfe Consulting has seen lots of projects get completed and lots of problems get solved. https://shawndewolfe.com/ 20. SiO Digital SiO Digital is a creative inbound marketing agency based in Downtown Los Angeles and San Diego. SiO reinvents the digital marketing world by combining mathematics with inbound marketing called iNBOUND iNTELLIGENCE. They focus on attracting customers through a dynamic smart content approach by creating tailored, relevant and helpful content not interruptive. It is the marketing that people love with a smart leads acquisition and sales intelligence closing approach. SiO is in total control of the business ROI by using artificial intelligence and a high level of mathematics but also able to forecast it with 80% accuracy. https://siodigital.com/ 21. Skywell Software Skywell Software was founded in 2008. Initially, the company was a system integrator supplying computer and office equipment throughout Ukraine, but in 2014 the company launched software development services and entered the international market in 2015. Company services include the development of augmented, virtual and mixed reality; the creation of animated design and visual effects, 3D modeling, 3D visualization, and computer vision; web design and development; mobile application development services for developing mobile applications for iOS and Android platforms using programming languages such as Kotlin/Java for Android and Swift/Objective-C for iOS; dedicated project teams; and more. https://skywell.software/ 22. 36creative 36creative is Greater Bostons Award-Winning Creative Agency, offering Brand Strategy and Creative Production since 2004. Their team of experts combines outstanding artistry and technical mastery to build brands a core product that drives home impactful results. https://36creative.com/ 23. TinyFrog Technologies TinyFrog Technologies is a San-Diego-based web agency, specializing in WordPress web design and development, secure hosting and maintenance and search engine marketing. Founded in 2003, TinyFrog has built over 1,100 websites and has worked with almost every industry. Their goal is to build a website for each business that reflects the personality of every brand and engages visitors on the highest level. https://tinyfrog.com/ 24. Twitchtime Twitchtime is a creative team of makers, thinkers, explorers and geeks. They approach every work and play with curiosity and experimentation and producing meaningful and interesting products. The secret to truly successful work isnt just about technology; its about working with the right people. https://twitchtime.com/ 25. VEN Interactive Media Established in 1997 on Long Island and with offices in New York City, VEN Interactive Medias web design services have a proven track record of what it takes to have a successful website. The firm shines when it comes to conceptualizing inspired and inventive online business models, brand-friendly websites, powerful direct response tactics, and ingenious marketing strategies that create hyper-growth for our clients. With over 20 years experience as a talented web design company, they have had the privilege to work with many different companies across many industries. They are prepared to bring their knowledge and experience to brands next digital projects. http://venwebsites.com/ Brands can view the best eCommerce web design and development agencies by price, portfolios, reviews, leadership, expertise, rankings and more on DesignRush. About DesignRush: DesignRush.com is a B2B marketplace connecting brands with agencies. DesignRush features the top agencies around the world, including the best Digital Agencies, Logo Design, Branding, Digital Marketing, Website Design, eCommerce Web Design Companies, and more. Encore currently has thousands of acres under agreement in Lawrence County, Kentucky targeting the Berea Sand oil formation. The final three (3) drill-site selections shall be largely predicated by the results at JDH #NB-1 and WFC #H1," said Steve Stengell, Encores President and CEO. Encore plans to drill multiple horizontal well locations from one (1) or two (2) existing well pad(s) in an effort to more efficiently produce the Berea Sandstone oil reservoir with the least possible environmental impact at the surface," said Joseph Hooper, Encores Executive Vice President and Director. The vertical Strat test well locations, previously drilled by Encore, help us to further de-risk our Berea project(s), as we target a projected ~100 300+ initial BOPD rate per horizontal well, added Hooper. Oil and gas investments involve a high degree of risk, uncertainty and are suitable only for SEC defined accredited investors. No assurances can be made as it relates to production, income, rates, reserves, profitability, timelines and/or any other estimates. Qualified SEC defined accredited investors can deduct 100% of their intangible and tangible drilling costs against all forms of income with years of potential income from production. These tax savings are important because they mitigate a significant amount of the risk associated with oil and gas drilling, completion and production. For more information, please contact Joseph Hooper at (270) 842-1242, ext. 224. Assumptions, Disclaimer and Cautionary Statement: The information herein may contain forward-looking statements, and actual results may vary. Words such as "estimate", "will," "intend," "continue," "target," "expect," "achieve," "strategy," "future," "may," "goal," or other comparable words or phrases or the negative of those words, and other words of similar meaning indicate forward-looking statements and important factors which could affect actual results. Forward-looking statements are made based upon Management's current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects upon Encore Energy, Inc. Oil and gas investments involve a high degree of risk, uncertainty and are only suitable for qualified Accredited (SEC Definition) investors who are sophisticated in making business decisions and can bear the financial loss of their entire investment, while delivering a turnkey profit to the Company for proving the prospect development, lease acquisition, drilling, completion, engineering and ongoing production operations. The Company does not provide tax advice and investors should seek the advice of their tax professional. Any tax and/or other information herein is provided for illustration purposes only and may include estimates that are uncertain and subject to change. It is impossible to accurately forecast profitability, production, reserves, income, expenses and timelines for any project. No assurances can be made as it relates to reserves, production, income, profit, prices, timelines and/or other estimates. Actual production, timelines and the actual results are beyond the control of management. In the event that commercial production is achieved, it may take many years for the investor to recoup his or her investment. The Company's lease acreage position under is subject to change and includes acreage under lease, Farmout agreement, verbal agreement, renewals, expired terms and any other prospective acreage in which the Company has communicated and/or negotiated with the landowner the leasing of oil and gas rights, now or in the future, and the lease / mineral owner has leased or communicated their intent to lease there mineral lease rights to the Company. It is important for qualified investors to acknowledge the fact that the US government provides them with tax savings (100% IDC tax deduction) to mitigate a significant amount of the financial risk associated with domestic oil and gas investments. This is not an offer to sell or buy a security. An offer shall only be made pursuant to SEC Regulation D, Rule 506(c) by a private placement offering memorandum, and this is not a private placement offering memorandum. Booth #7-7062 NeoCon 2019 Win a 2-day trip for two to Austin, Texas by posting a photo of a Formaspace Office furniture from booth #7-7062 on social media. As the worlds architects, interior designers, and office planners convene at the annual NeoCon expo in Chicago to discover the newest commercial design trends, Austin-based Formaspace Office will exhibit six client-driven projects that showcase its unique Co-Creation furniture manufacturing process. NeoCon attendees are invited to learn firsthand how they can create their own unique office furniture designs manufactured by one of Americas leading custom furniture companies by meeting the Formaspace Office executives and the engineering & design team in person at NeoCon booth #7-7062 on June 10, 11, and 12th. Attendees are also cordially invited to attend a special Co-Creation Cocktail Hour held at the booth on June 10 (3 - 5 pm) and June 11 (2 - 5 pm). Since we launched the Formaspace Office brand at NeoCon in Chicago two years ago, its helped us grow our overall business by 60%, making Formaspace one of the fastest growing manufacturing companies in America, says Formaspace CEO Jeff Turk. Our strategy is simple: as a custom office furniture manufacturer, we can build whatever you can imagine in large or small quantities by working in direct partnership with YOU as part of our unique 4D (Discover, Design, Develop, Deliver) Co-Creation manufacturing process. Its simple: no two companies are the same, no two clients are the same, and very few physical locations are the same. Thats why its difficult to create a modern, flexible office design with standard off-the-shelf solutions, you need an element of custom solutions for each project, explains Frank Bucher, Formaspace EVP of Sales. And to get to a custom solution, you need a special partnership with a custom manufacturer thats why weve developed the 4D Co-Creation process. Its become a key to our success, helping to make Formaspace Office furniture a favorite choice of many leading Silicon Valley-based high-tech firms. These companies understand the power that custom furniture design brings to the office environment and how it helps them convey an authentic, visually coherent brand message. What can we build for you? asks Bucher. By Co-Creating with Formaspace Office, you can take complete control over the development of a coherent visual design and branding message for your entire office. And you can simplify your project management workload by working with a single furniture manufacturer that delivers exactly what you want, when you need it from project management to production to professional on-site installation. Be sure to visit the Formaspace Office booth #7-7062 to see our custom manufacturing capabilities first hand and to meet our engineering and design team. Visit the Co-Creation Projects On Display at Formaspace Offices NeoCon Booth #7-7062 June 10 12, 2019 at Chicagos Merchandise Mart NeoCon visitors are encouraged to visit the Formaspace Office booth #7-7062 located on the 7th floor of Chicagos Merchandise Mart from June 10 through June 12, 2019. Architects, designers, space planners and more can meet the companys engineering and design team in person to learn more about the companys custom manufacturing capabilities and tour the Co-Creation projects on display, including the following: Collaboration Zone: When its time to get down to business, the Collaboration Zone provides a dedicated space for the hands-on project and brainstorming sessions, with built-in whiteboards, video screens, and more. Flex Office: Fast-growing companies know the challenge of keeping up with ever-changing employee workspace needs. These mobile Weldmarx work desks, originally developed for the fintech division of major finance company, allow employees to take back control and hack their own layout configurations. Outdoor Lounge: Todays employees want to take their work with them wherever they to go, including the great outdoors. The Outdoor Lounge offers a durable work environment built to withstand exterior conditions while maintaining a coherent visual look that connects the exterior and indoor design elements together into a unified design. Team Zone: Encourage collaboration by adding a Team Zone to new construction or to an existing office space. The custom vintage-looking table on display at NeoCon is a prime example of Formaspace Offices 4D Co-Creation process; it was designed in partnership with (and manufactured for) a major West Coast media company. Huddle Zone: When the conference room is too big and too far away, its time to move to the Huddle Zone for a quick conversation between colleagues. Huddle Zones with bar stools and cocktail height tables can also serve as hospitality areas for casual office meetings and receptions. Lounge Zone: Employees looking to move around during the workday are attracted to casual environments that blend the best characteristics of residential, commercial, and hospitality design. The Lounge Zone serves as an alternative work area that offers the opportunity for more spontaneous interaction between employees, helping to break down departmental silos at work. Lucky NeoCon visitors can also win a fun 2-day trip for two to Austin, Texas home of Formaspace Office by posting a photo of their favorite Formaspace Office furniture from booth #7-7062 on their Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn accounts. About Formaspace Office You imagine it. We build it. Formaspace Office fosters the spirit of discovery and creation through the design and manufacture of unique, made-in-America furniture solutions, from discovery to delivery. To learn more about our large-scale, custom manufacturing capabilities and our unique furniture systems for large and small conference rooms, private offices, co-working spaces, makerspaces, cafes, lounges, laboratories, industrial environments, K-12, Universities, and beyond, please visit http://www.formaspaceoffice.com Brave Little Black Bear: a touching lesson in the power of prayer and knowing that even when others have gone, one is not alone. Brave Little Black Bear is the creation of published author Frances Froehlich, a childrens writer and mother of three with a message to share, and illustrated by her daughter, Marie Froehlich. Froehlich writes, God gave courage to Little Black Bear. "After she said a silent prayer, "She was able to help her friend in a special way. "Little Black Bear was brave today. Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Frances Froehlichs new book is an uplifting rhyming tale about a young bears good example when it comes to relying on God to give her strength to do whats right instead of whats easy. Young readers will be enthralled by the charming illustrations and the inspiring actions of Little Black Bear as she demonstrates the Christian value of love for other and love for God. View a synopsis of Brave Little Black Bear on YouTube. Consumers can purchase Brave Little Black Bear at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or inquiries about Brave Little Black Bear, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919. Veterans are 50% more likely to die by suicide than civilians. Geospatial technology company Spatial Networks (SNI) is donating 100% of proceeds from our new corporate merchandize e-commerce site to support veteran suicide prevention. Veterans are 50% more likely to die by suicide than civilians. Having witnessed military suicide firsthand, U.S. Army Veterans Brian Kinsella, Nick Black, and Craig Gridelli founded the nonprofit Stop Soldier Suicide in 2010. The organizations mission is to help troops, veterans, and military families connect with the resources available to them without having to go through a complicated, overwhelming process in a time of crisis. Stop Soldier Suicides resource center is staffed with case managers who work one-on-one with clients, assessing each individuals needs and helping them obtain mental health services, housing assistance, emergency financial aid, and more. "I've known Nick for several years now, said Anthony Quartararo, Founder and CEO of Spatial Networks. He's been instrumental in helping Spatial Networks evolve our product pricing and packaging, and through that exercise, I've grown to truly appreciate and respect all that Nick brings to the table as a professional, especially his leadership experiences from his military service. When the idea for this online SNI store came up and with it the suggestion to donate all proceeds to support Nick's organization, it could not have been an easier choice to support. We owe far more to our veterans than we realize and giving back whatever we can is something all of us consider an honor and privilege." The team at Spatial Networks knows what it means to serve, said Nick. The good, bad and ugly. Leading from the front, Spatial Networks has proven its commitment to hiring veterans and supporting them as they grow as civilians. Stop Soldier Suicide is honored and humbled to be the recipient of such outstanding and innovative corporate philanthropy. Our employees, partners, and customers love our swag, and this store is a new way for them to get it while supporting a great cause. We even added some playful designs featuring some prominent personalities around the office. Visit the shop at http://www.spatialnetworks.myshopify.com. About Spatial Networks Founded in 2000, Spatial Networks enables organizations to identify opportunities, reduce uncertainty, and mitigate risk by leveraging geography and geographical information systems, including the mobile data collection platform Fulcrum. Spatial Networks, which was named one of the 100 Top Workplaces in Tampa Bay for 2019 by the Tampa Bay Times, is headquartered in St. Petersburg, FL, but employs remote staff across the United States. The company also utilizes vast global network of geospatial professionals to obtain the most accurate, timely, and relevant data for its clients. Learn more at http://www.spatialnetworks.com About Stop Soldier Suicide Founded in 2010 by U.S. Army Veterans Brian Kinsella, Nick Black, and Craig Gridelli, Stop Soldier Suicide is the first national, veteran-founded and -led 501(c)3 nonprofit focused on military suicide prevention. The organization, based in Durham, NC, works one-on-one with troops, veterans, and military families to help navigate the maze of services, programs, and assistance available. Learn more at http://www.stopsoldiersuicide.org. The All-New Haven Track and Trace "We created Track and Trace so that our customers would no longer have to search multiple websites or license complex software platforms to see all their shipments in one place. Now they have an affordable solution that lets them focus on growing their business said Matt Tillman, CEO at Haven. Haven, Inc., considered one of the pioneers of the digital revolution in shipping logistics, announced the availability of its new stand-alone cloud-based ocean tracking platform, Haven Track and Trace. The new product allows any shipper, freight-forwarder, trader or broker to easily track the journey of their ocean cargo from the point of origin to its final destination in real-time. A free 30-day trial is available to encourage the sharing of critical information across teams so anyone at any point can take action as needed. Getting stuff from point A to point B should be straightforward. For companies that need international cargo shipping, however, the process often turns into a labyrinthine tangle of phone calls, faxes, and emails to third-party service providers with different pricing models and ways of sharing data. Haven wanted to simplify things. In an industry first, Haven created a stand-alone version of their Track and Trace solution for companies of any size no matter their volume of shipments. "We created Track and Trace so that our customers would no longer have to search multiple websites or license complex software platforms to see all their shipments in one place. Now they have an affordable solution that lets them focus on growing their business said Matt Tillman, CEO at Haven. The new product is built around Havens ability to harmonize the formats of externally collected data, along with proprietary Automated Identification System (AIS) vessel data the company collects in real time. Data from 65 ocean carriers is available through the service, and customers can sign up to receive data from 1,200 additional logistics services providers and air and surface transportation carriers utilizing the companys API. Currently, the new Track and Trace solution supports ocean container visibility with air, rail, and intermodal tracking services coming soon. To learn more about Track and Trace and to start a free 30-day trial, go to Haven Track and Trace. About Haven, Inc. Haven was founded in 2014 to responsibly expand global trade through digital transformation. We help enterprises automate logistics, collaborate with partners, and gain valuable insights into their supply chain. Haven supports customers worldwide with offices in San Francisco, Japan and Singapore. If you share our vision and seek to make a material impact on trade, or if you manage a complex supply chain, get in touch here: haveninc.com Serviced Apartments for June: San Jose Serviced Apartment Designee San Jose is the center of Silicon Valley living, and by selecting Villa Torino we want to draw attention to an apartment complex that is 'European friendly. Key Housing Connections, the NorCal leader in locating hard-to-find corporate apartments in San Jose and other major Northern California cities, is pleased to announce the second part of its focus on so-called "serviced apartments" in both Northern and Southern California. As Europeans and British citizens, both tourists and business travelers, flock to California during the summer months, the company is designating two properties (one in San Diego, and one in San Jose) as the designees of its prestigious "featured listing" awards for June, 2019. The San Jose winner is the Villa Torino at https://www.villatorinoapts.com/, which is an incredible complex that bills itself as a "Modern Italian Villa in the Heart of an Jose." The complex offers Europeans and Brits, short term, furnished rentals in the so-called "serviced apartment" category, making it an ideal fit for Germans, French, Brits, or other Europeans who are coming to Silicon Valley either for business and/or pleasure. "San Jose is the center of Silicon Valley living, and by selecting Villa Torino we want to draw attention to an apartment complex that is 'European friendly,'" explained Robert Lee, President of Key Housing. "Whether one calls it a serviced apartment or a furnished apartment, the reality is that Villa Torino offers foreigners a way to enjoy Silicon Valley without having to pack their furniture." Interested persons can learn more about the NorCal featured listing for June at http://www.keyhousing.com/rightside.asp?action=form3&ID=148. There, they can read about Villa Torino, or use the navigation features to browse up and down California to learn about short term rental opportunities. For example, to browse availabilities throughout all of Silicon Valley, they can click up to http://www.keyhousing.com/silicon-valley-furnished-rentals.asp. They can also reach out to Key Housing for personalized help on finding hard-to-find short term rentals in San Jose for the summer months. Indeed, those who want to read up on the San Jose apartment marketplace can check out the company's spirited blog at http://blog.keyhousing.com/tag/san-jose-corporate-rentals/ which shares tips, tricks, and insights on how to find one of the hardest things to find on God's green earth: an available short term rental in Santa Clara county, California. THE WAY TO A SAN JOSE SERVICED APARTMENT: KEY HOUSING Here is a background on this announcement. While Dionne Warwick made San Jose famous with her 1968 song, Europeans may not know that Americans use the term "furnished apartment" for what Europeans and Brits call "serviced apartment," namely an apartment that has the basic furnishings. Indeed, Europeans and non-Californians may not know that finding a short term rental in Silicon Valley is harder than finding a person who doesn't have the Uber or Lyft app on their phone. By identifying a leading apartment complex that understands Europeans, Brits, and the terminology that they use to find short terms rentals, Key Housing is helping bridge not only the linguistic gaps but the real estate gaps between Europe and California. ABOUT KEY HOUSING Based in Folsom, California, Key Housing Connections Inc. specializes in corporate housing and corporate rentals in large cities like San Diego, San Francisco or Los Angeles as well as smaller cities like Carlsbad, Studio City, and Glendale. Key Housing is a leader in affordable, friendly, short-term serviced apartments in places like San Francisco, Ontario, Costa Mesa and just about every city in California. Whether it's furnished apartments or serviced corporate housing, search, click or call today! Key Housing (800) 989-0410 http://www.keyhousing.com/ This is a very exciting time for libraries, and LA County exemplifies the creativity and care brought to our communities every day by these vital institutions. LA County Library is the 2019 Gale/Library Journal Library of the Year. Under the leadership of Skye Patrick, who is also the Library Journal 2019 Librarian of the Year, LA County, serving the 3.4 million residents of Los Angeles County, has reinvented its organizational culture to run on deep listening to community members needs and desires, a baked-in focus on equity and inclusion, developing original services that take a broad view of the library mission and active partnerships, both public and private. As the 2019 Library of the Year, LA County Library will receive a cash prize of $10,000, be featured on the cover of Library Journals (LJs) June 2019 issue, available in print and online, and will be honored at a reception at the American Library Association (ALA) annual conference 2019 in Washington, DC. Established in 1992, each year the Library of the Year Award celebrates the library that most profoundly demonstrates service to the community, creativity and innovating in developing specific community programs or has seen dramatic increase in library use and leadership in creating programs emulated by other libraries. To learn more, visit: http://www.libraryjournal.com/LOY2019. LA Countys numerous innovations many of them in partnership include: Adapting the Positive Parenting Programs to a library setting. The Turns the Tables free nine-week DJ workshop to teach technological and entrepreneurial skills. A partnership with Barbershop Books. Programming to develop protective factors to reduce the development of mental illness plus mental health clinicians in eight libraries. Four new Veterans Resource Centers. New programs for youth on probation. Hiring ten young men of color as My Brothers Keeper Peer Advocates. Developing the website Path2Citizenship.lacounty.gov and circulating Citizenship in a Bag kits. Building Digital Equity, which teaches youth Microsoft programs and certifies their acquisition of up-to-date digital skills. "I am thrilled that we have been named 2019 Library of the Year by Library Journal thrilled because this award is a representation of our organization as a whole, and it puts our new vision and our staffs dedication front and center. I simply could not be more proud of the amazing work and effort put forth by this incredible staff, and am honored to lead such a great Library, said Skye Patrick, LA County Library Director. "It is truly remarkable to be recognized by Library Journal with three career-defining awards in one year. We strive to be responsive to our customers, and this award recognizes the impactful, systemwide work of our staff, making it that much more meaningful!" said Patrick. Established in 1912, LA County Library is one of the largest public library systems in the United States, and the world. The system has 87 libraries; three book kiosks at housing sites for older adults and youth between the ages of 16 and 24 who are in transition from state custody or foster care; and a fleet of 18 vehicles comprised for outreach. Library users borrowed 10,767,071 items from collections in fiscal 2017-18 and 10,300,859 visited a library to get those materials and many other services, among them answers to 6.7 million reference questions. LA County Librarys digital resources delivered more than 2 million e-circulations (increasing 29-33 percent a year), 4.4 million Wi-Fi sessions, and 2.2 million Internet sessions last year. LA Countys 26,400 programs attracted more than 619,000 participants in total. An amazing 499,512 came to childrens programs, up four percent from last year. Some 86,534 attended adult programs, up a huge 24 percent over the prior year, and 32,996 attending teen programs, an increase of eight percent. This is a very exciting time for libraries, and LA County exemplifies the creativity and care brought to our communities every day by these vital institutions, said Rebecca T. Miller, editorial director of Library Journal and School Library Journal. Weve been watching LA County Library under the leadership of Skye Patrick, who was recently named LJs Librarian of the Year. Now this honor signals how effectively the organization has adapted and evolved to set a standard of service worth emulating. Also featured in the June 2019 issue of Library Journal are two other libraries honored with special mentions in the 2019 Library of the Year Award program. They are: Calgary Public Library, under the leadership of CEO Bill Ptacek Chicago Public Library, honored for the third consecutive year, under the leadership of Commissioner and CEO Brian Bannon A team of LJ editors winnowed the competitive nomination pool to a group of semi-finalists, and each of those was evaluated by a panel of qualified industry professionals. For award guidelines, visit http://www.libraryjournal.com/?page=All-Awards-Guidelines. About Library Journal Founded in 1876, Library Journal is one of the oldest and most respected publications covering the library field. Over 75,000 library directors, administrators, and staff in public, academic, and special libraries read LJ. Library Journal reviews over 8,000 books, audiobooks, videos, databases, and websites annually, and provides coverage of technology, management, policy, and other professional concerns. For more information, visit http://www.libraryjournal.com. Library Journal is a publication of MSI Information Services, which also owns School Library Journal, The Horn Book, Junior Library Guild, and AKJ Education, Inc. About Gale Gale, a Cengage company, provides libraries with original and curated content, as well as the modern research tools and technology that are crucial in connecting libraries to learning, and learners to libraries. For more than 60 years, Gale has partnered with libraries around the world to empower the discovery of knowledge and insights where, when, and how people need it. Gale has 500 employees globally with its main operations in Farmington Hills, Michigan. For more information, please visit: http://www.gale.com. Follow Gale on: "Were thrilled that we are experiencing expansive growth based on our mission to get people out of pain, said Dr. Jason Garrett of Airrosti. We all want to be healthy and live pain-free lives." Airrosti has quickly become the nations go to treatment plan for people experiencing chronic and acute pain from soft tissue injuries. Their approach focuses on diagnosing the root cause of pain, then employing specific manual therapy and rehab exercises to correct and prevent future injuries. This yields quick results with many patients experiencing relief in an average of three visits according to patient-reported outcomes. Ultimately, 99.6% of past and present patients have stated they would recommend Airrosti to family, friends, and colleagues. These positive results have led to rapid and substantial growth for Airrosti, which originally opened in 2004 with one employee. Today, Airrosti has 210 locations throughout the United States with just under 700 employees. This includes providers and support staff who served 138,380 patients in 2018. To meet this growing demand, Airrosti is opening a new national headquarters in San Antonio, Texas. The 44,000 square-foot facility will house additional treatment space, a training site for new employees, and corporate offices. This campus also houses teams focused on supporting all Airrosti Providers across the U.S., including marketing, billing, scheduling, and finance. In 2019, Airrosti plans to add an additional 50 providers nationwide. All Airrosti Certified Providers are chiropractors or physical therapists who have been specially trained to assess the root cause of patient symptoms, and then address them. Their detailed evaluation and individually prescribed rehab exercises are key to patient success. For many, this type of therapy has improved health and deterred potential surgeries, motivating national insurance carriers to customize contracts designed to make Airrosti more accessible to patients. Were thrilled that we are experiencing expansive growth based on our mission to get people out of pain, said Dr. Jason Garrett of Airrosti. We all want to be healthy and live pain-free lives. People are seeing that Airrosti delivers that while also reducing healthcare costs. Its a great impact that we are able to deliver every day. About Airrosti: Airrosti, headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, has more than 200 locations across Texas, Illinois, Ohio, Virginia, and Washington. Airrosti Providers are experts at accurately diagnosing your injury and treating it directly at the source, safely and effectively. Their quality care approach means they spend significant one-on-one time with every patient, one full hour every visit, to accurately assess or determine and resolve the source of your pain. Airrosti Providers educate you and give you guidance you can use at home to speed your recovery. Their targeted approach leads to rapid recoveries and lasting results while helping most patients avoid the high costs of imaging, pharmaceuticals, and even surgical procedures. Most patients report significant improvement after only one visit, with injury resolution in an average of just three visits. For more information, visit http://www.Airrosti.com. "Our partners are strategic to us and we're deeply committed to their success, so it's exciting to see the high and increasing percentage of subscription-based revenue they're generating," said Scott Erickson, senior vice president of worldwide channel sales at M-Files. M-Files Corporation, the intelligent information management company, today announced significant progress with the transition of its global partner network to a subscription and cloud-based business model. A new global partner program, innovative licensing options and new software features streamlined and accelerated the transition to M-Files software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions for both customers and partners. In the first quarter of 2019, 83 percent of business that came through M-Files partners in the U.S. was subscription-based. The adoption of subscription-based services was reflected worldwide as well, with an average of 54 percent in Europe and 72 percent in Australia / New Zealand, respectively. As the industry moves rapidly toward subscription and cloud-based models, M-Files is poised for significant growth, and the company's extensive experience delivering cloud solutions based on the Microsoft Azure infrastructure is paving the way for its partner community to follow suit. With a subscription-based business, M-Files partners can close business faster, thanks to the ability to flexibly scale a deployment up or down with simple pricing and licensing and a shift from capital to operational expenses, which collectively reduce risk for customers. Since M-Files customers spend less upfront for licensing, they can invest more in professional services delivered by partners, resulting in a solution more tailored to their needs. They also benefit from continuous-improvement of the M-Files solution with automatic, regular updates included with the subscription. Finally, an increasing recurring revenue stream creates more commercial stability for M-Files partners as they work and invest to grow their business. M-Files broadened its subscription business model with the launch of M-Files Online in August 2018. M-Files Online is the first information management solution to offer "all-in-one" licensing for on-premises, hybrid and cloud use. With its unique approach, M-Files decouples the transition to subscription-based licensing from the transition to the cloud. This means that an M-Files Online customer can use the same license on-premises, in the cloud, or a hybrid mixture of both. This makes all M-Files Online customers instantly "cloud ready," even if they are not yet ready, or simply don't want to move to the cloud. They can then begin leveraging the cloud in a phased and targeted manner as they choose. Our partners are seeing the same recurring and compounding benefits we are from the subscription-based business model," said Scott Erickson, senior vice president of worldwide channel sales at M-Files. "Our partners are strategic to us and we're deeply committed to their success, so it's exciting to see the high and increasing percentage of subscription-based revenue they're generating. It shows that our solutions, business model and global partner program are working well for them and for M-Files. As a longstanding partner of M-Files, Marco Technologies greatly benefits from the commitment and investment M-Files continues to make to help its partners transition to a subscription-based business, said Kurt Meemken, director of software solutions at Marco Technologies. "We're particularly excited about the growing momentum and positive reception for M-Files Online in the market. With a single license for both on-premises and cloud deployments, along with instant cloud readiness, it offers enhanced flexibility to better meet the specific needs of our customers. To learn more about the global partner program, visit: https://www.m-files.com/en/partners ### About M-Files Corporation M-Files provides a next-generation intelligent information management platform that improves business performance by helping people find and use information more effectively. Unlike traditional enterprise content management (ECM) systems or content services platforms, M-Files unifies systems, data and content across the organization without disturbing existing systems and processes or requiring data migration. Using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in its unique Intelligent Metadata Layer, M-Files breaks down silos by delivering an in-context experience for accessing and leveraging information that resides in any system and repository, including network folders, SharePoint, file sharing services, ECM systems, CRM, ERP and other business systems and repositories. Thousands of organizations in more than 100 countries use M-Files for managing their business information and processes, including NBC Universal, OMV, Rovio, SAS Institute and thyssenkrupp. For more information, visit http://www.m-files.com. M-Files is a registered trademark of M-Files Corporation. All other registered trademarks belong to their respective owners. Media Contact: Webbo Chen 10Fold for M-Files 415-800-5367 m-files(at)10fold(dot)com Bob, Reza, Matt and Megan are tremendous additions to our team and help us continue to serve our clients in the best way possible. - Michael J. Novogradac, CPA, and managing partner Novogradac, a national accounting and consulting firm, welcomes Bob Chervenak, Reza Karim, Matt Kelley and Megan Murphyfour newcomers who provide additional expertise to an organization that specializes in affordable housing, community development, historic preservation and renewable energy. Each of the new members assume the role of principal in the company. Bob, Reza, Matt and Megan are tremendous additions to our team and help us continue to serve our clients in the best way possible, said Michael J. Novogradac, CPA, the managing partner. Our goal is to help clients reach their goals and each of our new principals bring unique skills and passion to our company. Were thrilled that theyre part of Novogradac. Chervenak joins the Novogradac office in Naples, Fla., with significant experience in affordable housing, where he has worked with developers and syndicators. He has extensive corporate and partnership tax experience and worked many low-income housing tax credit transactions, from the planning stage to the submission of the final cost certification. Chervenak has experience leading his own firm as well as working at other prominent firms. Karim, who has more than 15 years of technical and leadership experience, works out of Novogradacs New York City office, where he focuses on individual and partnership tax compliance and consulting in incentives such as opportunity zones, new markets tax credits, state and local taxes, and international tax matters. Karim previously worked with PricewaterhouseCoopers in the Tokyo; San Jose, Calif.; and New York metropolitan areas. In addition to tax compliance, Karim led a global team that provided coordinated consulting services to U.S. and foreign multinational clients on various areas of cross border taxation. Kelley, who has expertise in the opportunity zones incentive and other state tax credits and incentives, most recently worked in Boston for Ernst & Young. In his 12 years of client service, Kelley has worked on various tax matters, including state and local taxes, international and domestic discretionary business incentives, federal and state tax credits, and advising clients regarding complex new tax rules. In addition to his client service, Kelley has been a prominent speaker at professional conferencesincluding a presentation on the impact of tax regulations on innovation at a G20 Summit. He works out of Novogradacs office in Andover, Mass. Murphy brings 12 years of tax and legal experience, having most recently worked with The Vanguard Group as a corporate and fund tax attorney. She also has worked with PricewaterhouseCoopers and with Ernst & Young as a tax advisor, focusing on federal corporate and international tax, while providing tax due diligence services and tax advice related to multinational mergers, acquisitions and integrations. She will continue to provide tax consulting and advisory services in Novogradacs metro Philadelphia office and will contribute to Novogradacs internal tax technical skill development initiatives. About Novogradac Novogradac began operations in 1989 and has grown to more than 600 employees and partners with offices in more than 25 cities. Tax, audit and consulting specialty practice areas for Novogradac include affordable housing, opportunity zones, community development, historic rehabilitation and renewable energy. NEW Executive Forum powerhouse keynote lineup In the past two years, I have reframed aspects of NEW to expand how we advance all women. My aim for this years Forum is to encourage guests to consider how reframing their business leadership values can impact gender equality, diversity and inclusion within their companies, Sarah Alter, NEW CEO. Obama Foundations Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett will share her journey toward finding her voice on August 1 at Network of Executive Womens 14th Annual NEW Executive Forum 2019. The conference is an opportunity for more than 300 executive level leaders from various industries to come together and examine ways to reframe the conversation around gender equality. This years theme Reframe: Our power. On purpose. For progress. will inspire leaders to harness their personal power to create change, reaffirm the importance of collective accountability and work across boundaries to focus on continued progress over perfection. Forum attendees will gather at the Omni Amelia Island Resort in Florida July 30-August 1, 2019. I am so proud to celebrate my second year as NEWs CEO. My predecessors who helped found NEW and its mission left big shoes to fill; the organization I now lead has more than 13,000 members, 22 regions, 925 companies and is still growing in its ability to transform the lives and careers of our partners, said Sarah Alter, CEO at NEW. In the past two years, I have reframed aspects of NEW to expand how we advance all women. My aim for this years Forum is to encourage guests to consider how reframing their lives, careers and their business leadership values can make an impact on gender equality, diversity and inclusion within their companies, said Alter. Called the ultimate Obama insider by the New York Times, Jarrett will discuss her journey as a daughter, mother, lawyer, businessperson, public servant and leader in government at a historic moment in American history. Other highly anticipated keynotes include Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code and author of Brave, Not Perfect; Maggie Timoney, CEO at Heineken USA; and Suzy Whaley, president at PGA of America. Press who wish to attend should contact Holly Goodhart, Director of Marketing & Communications, hgoodhart(at)newonline(dot)org. ABOUT NEW Founded in 2001, the Network of Executive Women represents more than 13,000 members, 900 companies, 120 corporate partners and 22 regions in the U.S. and Canada advancing all women and building business. For more information about NEW and its learning programs, events, content and insights, visit newonline.org. Connect with us on social media @newnational. Paul M. Conlon, MBA, a native Houstonian with experience in business consulting and education, holds graduate degrees from the University of Houston-Victoria and Rice University, composes orchestral music, enjoys watching and participating in Americas favorite pastime, and has recently completed his book The Sociopaths Playbook: a thought-provoking work addressing a myriad of questions surrounding antisocial individuals. Sociopathswho are they? What do they want? How long have we known about them? How many are out there? And what can you do when around them? Welcome to The Sociopaths Playbook. Delve deep into the mind-sets of abusive individuals and immerse in strategies to counter them. Designed around the latest diagnostic manuals from the World Health Organization and the American Psychiatric Association, The Sociopaths Playbook weaves together the most up-to-date clinical analyses available to provide a detailed look into the mind of a sociopath. Feeling lied to, cheated, or stolen from? Look no further. The Sociopaths Playbook provides fifty action plans for a variety of real-life situations to address abusers in their tracks. Conlon tackles the bullying, intimidation, callousness, and manipulation, offering genuinely inspirational and uplifting messagesall while refusing to blame others for how they might have been born. All this and morefresh perspectives on pressing questions like do people choose what they feel? What does the word antisocial really mean? Do experts agree that sociopaths and psychopaths are the same? Does every human being experience empathy similarly? Can sociopaths change? At what age should they be diagnosed? Is sociopathy a learned or inherited condition? Are women or men more likely to be sociopaths? Are sociopaths truly smarter than others? Are they truly fearless? What strategies help potential victims in identifying them? And what courses of action can victims take to empower themselves? Published by New York City-based Page Publishing, Paul M. Conlons book is a well-researched and fascinating resource containing dozens of effective self-preservation strategies for interacting with a psychopath or sociopath. Readers who wish to experience this engrossing work can purchaseThe Sociopaths Playbook 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. This Sunday, June 2, our Special Vida Sana from 10:30am-12:30pm, at Pico Union Project (1153 Valencia St, Los Angeles, CA 90015) Vida Sana is a great opportunity to open our doors to our neighbors, share food with them, and strengthen the community. -Craig Taubman, Founder of Pico Union Project Pico Union Projects Special Vida Sana Health and Wellness Fair. PUP is thrilled to host a special Vida Sana on Sunday, June 2, 2019 from 10:30am - 12:30pm at the Pico Union Project. This program is made possible in part through a grant from the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health as part of Wellbeing Community Engagement. Pico Union Project is passionate about bridging communities and putting the principles of love thy neighbor into action. Vida Sana is one of our flagship programs that we use to connect our community to valuable services and resources. Furthermore, Vida Sana provides an opportunity for community residents, volunteers, and service providers to engage in meaningful interactions and cultural experiences. This special Vida Sana event will be similar our bi-monthly event, but on a grander scale. The Vida Sana Health and Wellness Fair is free to the public. Adults and children will enjoy fresh produce from the Farmers Market, healthy cooking demonstrations, art projects, games, music, food, haircuts, workshops, and resources from a wide network of social and health service organizations. It takes a village: Looking for volunteers and community partners to support our mission and help us grow Vida Sana into a robust program. Please get involved in the following ways: Partners and Vendors PUP welcomes you or your organization to provide information, resources, and/or services to Vida Sana attendees. Interested in partnering with organizations that provide services and or resources that serve to empower and support individuals and communities in the areas of self-advancement, health and education, and personal enrichment. Volunteers Come volunteer in the community to assist with setup, food distribution, facilitation of youth activities, and general event coordination. All are welcome and appreciate your participation in any way that best supports your unique skills, talents, and preferences. Donations Donate clothing, toys, non-perishable foods/snacks, and personal hygiene items if you are unable to attend the event. For more information about Vida Sana or to get involved please contact Pico Union Project Manager Lauree Martin at (213) 915-0084 or info@picounionproject.org. The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members ~ Coretta Scott King Imran G. Chowdhury, the inaugural Diana Davis Spencer Professor of Social Entrepreneurship at Wheaton College, Norton, Mass. (Photo: Pete Byron/Wheaton College) Wheaton is one of the few liberal arts colleges nationwide, and the first in the Northeast, to appoint a professor for an endowed chair in social entrepreneurship. A distinguished researcher and teacher whose scholarship examines issues at the intersection of business and society has been appointed to serve as the inaugural Diana Davis Spencer Professor of Social Entrepreneurship at Wheaton College in Norton, Mass. Imran G. Chowdhury, who is currently an associate professor of management in the Lubin School of Business at Pace University in New York, NY, will join Wheatons faculty at the start of the 2019-20 academic year with the charge of integrating the colleges burgeoning social entrepreneurship programs with its liberal arts and sciences curriculum. [EDITORS: High-resolution photo available online. The appointment is made possible by an endowment established through the support of the Diana Davis Spencer Foundation, the namesake of Wheaton College Trustee Emerita Diana Davis Spencer who is also a 1960 graduate of the institution. Wheaton is one of the few liberal arts colleges nationwide, and the first in the Northeast, to appoint a professor for an endowed chair in social entrepreneurship. We are thrilled that Professor Chowdhury will be leading our efforts to expand and strengthen Wheatons emphasis on addressing critical social issues through our programs in social entrepreneurship, said Wheaton President Dennis M. Hanno. His experiences in the social enterprise sector, and as a scholar, dedicated teacher and mentor to undergraduates, make him the perfect person to push forward Wheatons leadership in this area. Wheatons commitment to social entrepreneurship education and social innovation within the liberal arts is embedded in the institutions 2016 strategic plan, Wheaton Means Impact: Growing Our Influence on the World. The effort builds upon the colleges historic emphasis on experiential learning as a means for helping students to connect liberal arts study to the needs and concerns of the wider world. This is a dream jobintegrating social entrepreneurship into the study of the liberal arts and sciences, Chowdhury said. I am extremely excited to have the opportunity to work with Wheatons committed scholar-teachers. They share my commitment to the idea of a personalized education, wherein faculty work with students as collaborators, helping provide each of them opportunities to explore their own unique interests, and offering guidance and support as needed. Diana Davis Spencer 60, whose foundation supported this endeavor, said, Im thrilled that Wheaton is a leader in social enterprise and has been recognized as one of Americas most innovative colleges. Wheaton students are becoming more engaged leaders as they launch impactful enterprises that make the world a better place. Dr. Chowdhury will accelerate this strategic focus. As President Lincoln said, The best way to predict the future is to create it. Wheaton students are doing just that! At Wheaton, Chowdhury will develop course offerings on topics in social entrepreneurship, strategic management and international management that complement the colleges growing array of programsfrom partnerships with external organizations to a semester-long bootcamp for social entrepreneurs and dedicated center for social entrepreneurship that help students build their skills and refine ideas for social innovation ventures. He also will collaborate with faculty members in other departments to forge interdisciplinary connections that foster innovation among interested students in every discipline of the liberal arts and sciences. Provost and Academic Vice President Renee T. White said connecting this work to the liberal arts is crucial to Wheatons plans for the program. Innovations with social impact can come from every corner of the liberal artsfrom the arts and humanities to the social sciences and natural sciences. Professor Chowdhurys capacity to work with colleagues and students across interdisciplinary boundaries will help to set our social entrepreneurship programs apart. Chowdhury has experience in building and expanding programs. He played a lead role in developing Paces M.S. in entrepreneurship program, designing model syllabi, benchmarking the universitys offerings against best-in-class graduate degrees in entrepreneurship from around the country, and teaching the first Social Entrepreneurship course within the Lubin School of Business. During his tenure at the Institute for Social Entrepreneurship & Innovation at ESSEC Business School, he was responsible for a review of the institutions social entrepreneurship program, which is recognized as a leader in the field in France. At Pace, Chowdhury has been recognized for teaching excellence in the undergraduate program and has worked closely with a range of students, including those interested in pursuing social impact in their careers. Beyond Paces New York City campus, he serves as a visiting professor at the Free University of Berlins International Summer and Winter University. He is particularly active in the global social entrepreneurship education arena, having developed pedagogical materials, articles and teaching cases for his own courses as well as for instructors at business schools and universities around the world. In his scholarship, Chowdhury examines how organizations simultaneously pursue profit and social good. In particular, he looks at how social entrepreneurs, corporations, nonprofits, and community-based organizations attempt to balance social and economic objectives while transferring knowledge, organizing for growth, and finding opportunities within their internal and external environments. Much of his work is field-based: during his doctoral studies, Chowdhury examined partnerships between social enterprises in South Asia and Latin America; subsequent projects have focused on tourism-based social entrepreneurship in Brazil, the rise of multinational enterprises during early-modern history in Asia, and the emergence of corporate philanthropy in France. His research has been published in leading journals and presented at national and international scholarly conferences, and has received a number of awards, including best paper honors from the Academy of Management, the Eastern Academy of Management, the Administrative Sciences Association of Canada and the European Doctoral Programs Association in Management and Business Administration. Chowdhury is a member of the Editorial Review Board of Academy of Management Learning & Education, the leading teaching-related journal in the management field; he serves on the award committee of the oikos International Case Competition, an annual international competition to select the top teaching cases in social entrepreneurship and sustainability; and he is a term member at the Council on Foreign Relations think tank, where he is currently serving on the Study Group on U.S.-India Relations. In addition to his academic work, Chowdhury has significant firsthand experience in the social enterprise sector. As a Fulbright Scholar, he worked with the National AIDS Commission in Lilongwe, Malawi and with the Malawi Field Office of Save the Children (US). He later worked as grants manager and project consultant with the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) in New York and in Kampala, Uganda. A native of the borough of Queens in New York City, Chowdhury graduated from Stuyvesant High School and earned his undergraduate degree in anthropology and geography at Hunter College, where he was the recipient of an Athena Scholarship and a Jeannette K. Watson Fellowship. He completed graduate studies in France, obtaining a masters degree at L'Institut europeen d'administration des affaires (INSEAD), and a Ph.D. from LEcole superieure des sciences economiques et commerciales (ESSEC Business School). We are thrilled with the results of this pilot and are eager to keep moving forward so we can help as many patients as possible find relief. A promising trial at Israels Sheba Medical Center could bring much needed relief and less reliance on addictive opioids for patients who suffer from upper abdominal cancer. The pilot phase of this trial saw such substantial results that it is now expanding to additional academic medical centers across North America, Europe and the Middle East. With an urgent need for new pain management techniques outside the dangerous realm of opiate medications and nerve blocks, Dr. Yaacov Lawrence, Shebas Director of the Center for Translational Radiation Oncology and Dr. Tikva Meron, RN Ph.D. have entered into the second phase of a groundbreaking Celica Plexus Radiosurgery clinical trial funded by Gateway for Cancer Research. The first phase of the trial proved to be quite successful with over 80% of participants reported significant improvement in pain. One-third claimed to have all pain resolved. Sheba Medical Center is testing the efficacy and safety of a single dose of radiation directed towards the celiac plexus--nerves located behind the pancreas at the 12th thoracic vertebrae. The Celiac Plexus Radiosurgery clinical trial is gaining traction. At Sheba Medical Center, over 23 patients enrolled within one year. Now, Dr. Lawrence and his Tel Aviv team, along with investigators from London, Philadelphia, Ohio and Toronto, are beginning this next phase of the study with an enrollment of 100 patients. Palliative care is so incredibly important for our patients, said Dr. Lawrence. It improves their quality of life and gives them tremendous hope. We are thrilled with the results of this pilot and are eager to keep moving forward so we can help as many patients as possible find relief. Dr. Yaacov Lawrence is available for interviews regarding his work with the Celiac Plexus clinical trial. About Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer Born together with Israel in 1948, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer is the largest and most comprehensive medical center in the Middle East. Sheba is the only medical center in Israel that combines an acute care hospital and a rehabilitation hospital on one campus, and it is at the forefront of medical treatments, patient care, research and education. As a university teaching hospital affiliated with the Sackler School of Medicine at Tel-Aviv University, it welcomes people from all over the world indiscriminately. In 2019, Newsweek magazine named Sheba one of the top ten hospitals in the world. To learn more, visit: eng.sheba.co.il. After serving the local community with custom jewelry, appraisals, estate jewelry, repairs, charitable events, and more for over 25 years, we are so thankful for this referral and looking forward to showing our unique store, custom designs and more to the rest of the world. Past News Releases RSS Sisters Stacey Hill and Traci Jordan of Masterpiece Jewelers in Daytona Beach, http://www.AwardWinningJewelers.com, got a call most small business owners dream of receiving. An assistant producer called to ask if theyd like to appear on a nationally recognized, reality television show and have their jewelry store used as the location for an upcoming episode. An anonymous cast member from Love After Lock Up recommended our store to the producers, and in a matter of days, we found ourselves prepping to be on this popular television show and showcasing our jewelry right here in Daytona Beach, states Stacey Hill, award-winning jewelry designer and co-owner of Masterpiece Jewelers. After serving the local community with custom jewelry, appraisals, estate jewelry, repairs, charitable events, and more for over 25 years, we are so thankful for this referral and looking forward to showing our unique store, custom designs and more to the rest of the world. Seen on WE TV, Love After Lock Up, is a reality television docuseries that follows six couples as they share the emotional journey of being united for the first time after years of supervised visits in prison. The episode at Masterpiece Jewelers will be part of the shows new season and promises to be packed with drama and surprises. As sisters and best friends who have designed and sold jewelry since we were very young, it will be fun to experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity together, states Traci Jordan, award-winning jewelry designer and co-owner of Masterpiece Jewelers. Plus, we cant wait to share some of our behind-the-scenes insights with customers, friends and family members at our next, monthly jewelry-giveaway-party! The sisters have served the Daytona Beach, Florida area since 1976. Working with their late mother, Miller Hill, and Master Jeweler, Henry Jordan (who has over 35 years of experience at the bench), Stacey and Traci offer award winning, custom-design jewelry and a large, carefully-curated estate jewelry selection with appraisals, remounting, cleaning, repairs, trades, and many, other services. They are certified in computer-aided jewelry design (CounterSketch by Gemvision) to virtually make anything a client envisions. In the last five years alone, Masterpiece Jewelers has donated over $30,000 to local charities, organizations and clubs. They are members in good standing with Jewelers of America, Diamond Council of America, Jewelers Vigilance Committee, and The Port Orange South Daytona Chamber of Commerce. Stacey and Traci have presented more than 120 speaking programs as jewelry experts to numerous groups including The Symphony Guild and The Museum of Arts & Sciences Guild. For more information about their custom jewelry, estate jewelry collection, and other services, visit http://www.AwardWinningJewelers.com, stop by the store at 1500 Beville Road, #404-2, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, or call 386-252-0010. About Masterpiece Jewelers Owned by sisters, Stacey Hill and Traci Jordan, Masterpiece Jewelers is a family-owned business that has been serving the Daytona Beach, Florida area since 1976. Under the guidance of Master Jeweler Henry Jordan, the business grew from a small mall-store into a recognized, fine jeweler winning awards year-after-year for their custom designs and large selection of estate jewelry. The store offers appraisals, remounting, repair, trades, magnetic clasp installation, free prong checks and cleaning, watch battery and band changes, and more that are all accompanied by V.I.P. customer service. Members in good standing with Jewelers of America, Diamond Council of America, Jewelers Vigilance Committee, and The Port Orange South Daytona Chamber of Commerce, Stacey and Traci are certified in computer-aided custom jewelry design to virtually make anything a client envisions. In the last five years alone, they have donated over $30,000 to local charities, organizations and clubs and have presented more than 120 speaking programs as jewelry experts to numerous groups including The Symphony Guild and The Museum of Arts & Sciences Guild. For custom-made jewelry to meet your specific needs and more, visit http://www.AwardWinningJewelers.com or 1500 Beville Road, #404-2, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, or call 386-252-0010. Media Contact: Melanie Rembrandt, Rembrandt Communications, 800-771-0116 Santa Rosa Consulting, Inc., a leading provider of management consulting and information technology services for the healthcare industry, and a MEDITECH READY-Certified firm, announced today that Lawrence General Hospital, a leading not-for-profit provider of superior and comprehensive healthcare services, has successfully completed the implementation of the MEDITECH Expanse system, meeting established project timelines and objectives. Dianne Anderson, RN, President and CEO of Lawrence General Hospital observes, Our robust new electronic health record marks an incredibly important milestone in Lawrence General Hospitals history and Im thankful for the leadership from the hospitals multidisciplinary team, MEDITECH and Santa Rosa Consulting for their focus, forethought and dedication to detail. Anderson added, the planning steps we have accomplished, and our thoughtful training, education and support have prepared Lawrence General well for this momentous event. The implementation of an EHR technology platform is a complex and challenging endeavor that requires the strong commitment of many, coupled with rigorous dedication to achieve success, said Mike Ragan, president of Santa Rosa Consulting. Our dedicated team is especially proud to have been a part of this successful journey with Lawrence General Hospital. Our ability to deliver results, not only on-time and within budget, but also under an innovative contractual fixed fee arrangement, was a critical component of the overall project success. Santa Rosa began working with Lawrence General over 24 months ago to assist with identifying the right system to support their clinical, operational and IT needs. Upon selecting MEDITECH Expanse, the teams worked closely to develop the implementation plan and budgets to deliver success for both its acute and ambulatory practices. We are pleased to meet our scheduled Go-LIVE commitment and to take full advantage of the MEDITECH Expanse capability, said Felix Mercado, Lawrence General CFO and project sponsor. Having a READY partner budget, backed by a contractual commitment, allowed us to better focus on the project at hand. A change like this touches every hospital department and the planning, preparation and education, combined with the care staffs engagement through Go-LIVE, made this conversion a success. Mark Scruggs, executive vice president at Santa Rosa added, Delivering MEDITECH Expanse projects, under a fixed fee arrangement, was the logical progression for Santa Rosa. Our years of delivering proven on-time and within budget value, through an experienced team and enhanced project management processes, allowed us to bet on ourselves. Cost predictability is paramount to todays Health System executives, so our ability to offer this alternative to the market is vital, as many health systems are being asked to do more with less. Lawrence General is one of several Massachusetts healthcare providers Santa Rosa has partnered with for MEDITECH implementation services, making the firm one of the top EHR implementation consultants in the state. ABOUT SANTA ROSA CONSULTING: Santa Rosa Consulting provides management advisory and technical consulting services across the spectrum of vendor and IT products and systems. We empower better healthcare by designing, creating, staffing and sustaining IT solutions that deliver quantified value. Founded in 2008, Santa Rosa Consulting is managed by industry veterans with an average of 20 years of healthcare information technology experience. Santa Rosa is recognized for delivering world-class services and solutions and has received Modern Healthcares Best Places to Work in Healthcare award multiple years in a row. For more information, visit santarosaconsulting.com or call (866) 944-4772. ABOUT LAWRENCE GENERAL HOSPITAL: Lawrence General Hospital is a private, non-profit community hospital providing the Merrimack Valley & southern New Hampshire regions with patient-centered, compassionate and quality health care for the whole family. For nearly 140 years, the dedicated doctors, nurses and staff of Lawrence General have been committed to improving the health of the people and communities we serve. Lawrence General Hospital is clinically affiliated with both Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center. These affiliations help us to provide our patients with specialty services and clinics so that they can get expert care close to home when they need it most. As a practice we are dedicated to helping members of the LGBTQ community achieve their goals of building a family. We feel privileged to have the opportunity to educate couples about their family building options, and to help them begin their path to parenthood. In honor of Pride Month, a month dedicated to recognizing the LGBTQ community, Shady Grove Fertility (SGF) is hosting various events to spread awareness about the multiple family building options available for the LGBTQ community. SGF is dedicated to helping gay, lesbian, and transgender people and couples realize their dream of parenthood. SGF has been a leader in donoralso called third-partyreproduction, for nearly 30 years and is a proud sponsor of the Capital Pride Festival in the nations capital on Sunday, June 9, 2019. This event celebrates the diversity of the community and educates, supports, and inspires others to help create full equality for LGBTQ individuals and their families. Pride Festival attendees are encouraged to stop by the SGF booth, for information and to meet practice physicians and members of the team. Dr. Kate Devine, SGFs Director of Research, will host an LGBTQ Family Building seminar on Monday, June 17, 2019 at SGFs Washington, D.C. K Street location. Attendees will receive a voucher for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Devine. Interested parties must register to attend. As a practice we are dedicated to helping members of the LGBTQ community achieve their goals of building a family. We feel privileged to have the opportunity to educate couples about their family building options, and to help them begin their path to parenthood, says Dr. Devine. Were able to offer a full range of services, from low tech to highly advanced, and to apply the latest in assisted reproductive technology (ART) to help individuals and couples achieve successful outcomes. Many of our treatment options for same-sex and transgender couples enable both partners to participate actively in the family building process, adds Devine. SGF will host a free virtual webinar about LGBTQ family building options that will include information about fertility testing, treatment options such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), donor egg treatment, gestational carriers, reciprocal/co-IVF, intended father treatment, transgender options, reproductive legal considerations, psychological support services, and much more. The event will take place on Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at 12 pm and will be hosted by board certified reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Ryan Martin, who sees patients in SGFs Warrington, PA location. Following the presentation, Dr. Martin will host a live, anonymous question and answer session. Interested parties must register to attend. As a premier fertility center in the nation, SGF has created a comprehensive program for LGBTQ family building and is home to the largest donor egg program in the United States. Through continuous innovation and new developments in assisted reproductive technology (ART), we can offer the LGBTQ community a full range of fertility treatment options, giving them every advantage in building their family. SGF programs include options for every type of partnership in a nurturing and supportive environment, says Dr. Martin. To learn more about LGBTQ family building at SGF, visit SGFs website or schedule an appointment with an SGF physician and get started on your path to parenthood. 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. Uptrust logo Most FTAs are not because someone is seeking to evade the court process, said Elena DAgustino, Interim Public Defender with the Solano County Public Defender. We are optimistic that this will increase court attendance and improve our attorneys ability to communicate with their clients. Uptrust, the social justice text messaging reminder platform, announced that it has launched a partnership with The Solano Public Defenders Office to reduce the number of Failure to Appear (FTA) incidents, arrest warrants and technical violations in the county. The partnership aims at reducing wasted taxpayer funds, improving efficiency for the countys attorneys, and decreasing the number of incarcerations for certain violations. Most FTAs are not because someone is seeking to evade the court process, said Elena DAgustino, Interim Public Defender with the Solano County Public Defender. We are optimistic that this will increase court attendance and improve our attorneys ability to communicate with their clients. Under the agreement, all public defender clients will receive text reminders for their court dates. Uptrusts trademarked platform connects public defenders offices with defendants via text message to remind them to appear at scheduled legal appointments, most specifically their court hearings. Local governments spend more than $9 billion on unnecessary pretrial incarceration, and an additional $1 billion issuing and enforcing FTAs. Further, bench warrants have been shown to become expensive and wasteful of both taxpayer and law enforcements time and funds. To date, Uptrusts messaging system has reduced FTAs by more than 50 percent in some jurisdictions, with 30 percent of users texting back to their attorney, continuing the correspondence. The platform provides a communication and reminder tool similar to many modern dentist or doctor appointment applications. Solano joins Yolo, San Joaquin, Contra Costa, Ventura, San Bernardino and Santa Barbara Counties in working with Uptrust to keep people out of jail that dont need to be there. Uptrusts partnership with Solano County is supported by the Heising-Simons Foundation, a foundation based in Los Altos, California. As part of its human rights and justice reform investments, the Heising-Simons Foundation is supporting an expansion of Uptrusts work in California. Solano County is like many counties now trying keep jails for those that actually need to be there. As an advancement in technology, our platform can help reduce unnecessary incarceration, said Jacob Sills, founder of Uptrust. Ultimately, we hope made a positive impact in Solano County, while also saving taxpayer funds and public defenders time. ABOUT UPTRUST Uptrust is a text message-based communication and engagement tool helping defendants arrive at court for their scheduled hearings and other mandatory appointments. By improving the relationship between the criminal justice system and defendants, Uptrust has proved to keep low-income defendants out of jail on bench warrants and technical violations, while also saving attorneys time and reducing the cost to the municipality or county. Uptrust currently is contracted with more than 15 public defender offices around the US, and reaches over 100,000 defendants. Uptrust is a public benefit corporation supported by the Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation, RFK Human Rights and the Heising-Simons Foundation; it has offices in San Francisco, CA and Northampton, MA. To learn more about Uptrust, visit http://www.Uptrust.co. Star Energy Consumption Benchmarking Tool The cold storage energy consumption benchmarking tool is a quick and simple way to find out if youre paying more than average on your annual energy bill. Star Refrigeration, one of the UKs leading refrigeration engineering companies, calls on businesses to benchmark their energy consumption against industry standard at the Temperature Controlled Storage and Distribution Show which will take place on 25th and 26th June in Peterborough. In a bid to get cold storage businesses thinking about energy consumption and life cycle costs, Star Refrigeration has launched a benchmarking tool to assess how businesses electricity usage compares against similar sites across the UK and Europe. Industrial refrigeration systems use large amounts of energy and typically cost 7-10 times as much to run over their lifetime as they do to buy, according to the Food and Drink Industry Refrigeration Initiative report. Just in the Cold Storage sector, refrigeration is estimated to account for up to 90% of the energy costs. With this in mind, Stars new Chilling energy costs tool is able to benchmark the performance of a refrigeration plant vs industry standard and UK best practice guidelines. This will arm end-users with practical knowledge, allowing them to compare electricity consumption and implement energy saving measures to reduce energy spend. In order to benchmark their energy consumption against competitors, businesses must ensure they have details of their refrigeration systems energy consumption and site volume. David Wallace, Director of Sales at Star Refrigeration said, The cold storage energy consumption benchmarking tool is a quick and simple way to find out if youre paying more than average on your annual energy bill. You will receive a detailed report demonstrating how your energy consumption compares with other users. The energy consumption calculator analyses data to give a detailed insight into how energy efficient a refrigeration plant is. If a user discovers their equipment is consuming more energy than most plants, and higher than the industry standard, Star Refrigeration can signpost a number of services which aim to increase efficiency and reduce energy bills. The free benchmarking service is part of a wider Star strategy to increase awareness of energy consumption within the cold storage industry, with the end goal of reducing carbon emissions and energy costs. Mr Wallace added, With energy consumption playing such a huge part in a business annual spend, it makes sense to ensure everything is done to make a plant as efficient as possible. Not all actions require huge investment, we have found with many customers that simply altering set temperatures or regular maintenance can have a significant impact. As a company we strive for sustainability and pride ourselves on suggesting sensible solutions which help users save money and the planet. Now in its 5th year, the TCS&D Show is a two day long conference and exhibition at the East of England Arena. In addition to sponsoring World Refrigeration Day, Star will be exhibiting at stand B24 and speaking to delegates sharing industry knowledge with two presentations as part of the conference programme. Find out more about the TCS&D Show and register to attend at: https://www.tcsdshow.com. To find out more about Star Refrigeration, visit http://www.star-ref.co.uk. 88% of college graduates under 30 strongly believe they will live as well or better than their parents, (contrary to available evidence), according to a new survey of 21-30 year-olds conducted by The NHP Foundation, not-for-profit providers of affordable housing. That is even true for many of those saddled with student loans. Other responses include: 55% have student loans, 10% owing more than $50k, yet nearly 40% (38.8) expect to pay their loans off in 1-3 years. In truth, although standard repayment puts borrowers on a 10 year track according to this report, the average bachelors degree graduate actually takes 21 years to pay off loans. 89% of the cohort are comfortable renting a home vs. owning for the foreseeable future, though 60% fully expect to be able to afford the kind of housing they most prefer in 1-5 years. 70% of respondents consider home ownership important to very important. Some research shows that home ownership is more achievable than previously thought for Generation Rent (young adults who, because of the high cost of home ownership, stagnant wages, and toxic debt live in rented accommodations for longer periods than previous generations). However other economists believe that prices will continue to rise- while the construction industry under-builds rather than increasing density or incorrectly builds for this demographic. As a result, there will be too many large, expensive homes located in the suburbs and not enough smaller more affordable for sale units in the cities that this generation has gravitated to. In addition, it is much harder for younger works to qualify for home loans. 46% of graduates expect to live on their own, paying rent with no help from roommates or parents. The truth is today, according to US Census data, more recent graduates are living at home than ever before. In markets like New York, Miami and Los Angeles, grads back under the family roof can number as high as 45%. Amidst this unbridled optimism, some responses are much more in touch with reality. For example, 66.6% expect to spend more than 30% of their income on rent. We were surprised to learn that 54% of these young graduates know that they could potentially qualify for affordable housing under HUDs definition, stated Richard Burns, President & CEO of The NHP Foundation. This helps us understand how we need to consider housing to suit these renters, who may be in apartments for longer than they think. Affordable housing, long thought of as the purview of the very poor is fast becoming the housing needed by many demographics graduates on tight budgets, Baby Boomers caught in an economic squeeze and many middle income families whose paychecks cant always cover housing and healthcare. This reality is a wake-up call for housing providers and those who invest in its construction. Generation Rent expects to live as well or better than their parents. Affordable housing can provide a necessary stepping stone for this most optimistic demographic. About The NHP Foundation Headquartered in New York City with offices in Washington, DC, and Chicago, IL, The NHP Foundation (NHPF) launched on January 30, 1989, is celebrating its 30th year as a publicly supported 501(c)(3) not-for- profit real estate corporation. NHPF is dedicated to preserving and creating sustainable, service-enriched multifamily housing that is both affordable to low and moderate income families and seniors, and beneficial to their communities. NHPF also provides a robust resident services program to nearly 18,000 community residents. Through partnerships with major financial institutions, the public sector, faith-based initiatives, and other not-for-profit organizations, NHPF has 52 properties, with more than 8,000 units, in 15 states and the District of Columbia. Hosea's mission to fulfill a promise made to NARAL Pro-Choice America founder Dr. Bernard Nathanson. And what if weve been wrong if the Court should soon reverse itself on the abortion issue in the light of changing times and or new scientific evidence? What an incalculable injustice will have been perpetrated. What an immeasurable irretrievable loss will have been suffered. - Dr. Nathanson Past News Releases RSS Hosea Initiative (http://www.Hosea4You.org) is a pro-life non-profit organization with a mission to fulfill a promise made to repentant NARAL Pro-Choice America founder Dr. Bernard Nathanson. In a rare interview on December 1, 2009, terminally-ill, 83-year-old Dr. Bernard Nathanson confided in Terry Beatley the tactics he used with the intent of deceiving America into believing that abortion is womens healthcare. He was the last surviving cofounder of NARAL Pro-Choice America who was once known as Americas Abortion King. Deeply regretting unleashing the abortion monster, he instructed Terry to teach America the 8 points of propaganda and to deliver his parting message about love. All of this can be found in detail in her book, What If Weve Been Wrong? Keeping my promise to Americas Abortion King. (Terry Beatley What If Weve Been Wrong, Guiding Light Books, 2016) (https://guidinglightbooks.com/product/what-if-weve-been-wrong) As Roe v Wade teeters toward collapse, it seems quite timely to consider what the father of Americas industry of abortion wanted every American to know. The strategy Dr. Nathanson implemented was as follows: First, Dr. Nathanson admitted in an interview what [he and NARAL] knew to be true that an abortion kills an existing human being; therefore, they framed the debate around choice to pivot away from the fact that Dr Nathanson felt they were advocating for legal homicide knowing full well it was a baby and it was not the mothers body. (Nathansons statement to South Dakotans - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1xfEoqGeliA&feature=youtu.be ) Second, Dr. Nathanson, with the help of a public relations firm, invented many slogans reflecting the messaging My body, My choice used to completely ignore and dehumanize the unborn child and focus solely on the woman. (Bernard N. Nathanson, Aborting America, Doubleday & Company, 1979, p.171) Third, they used the media which nursed on every word Dr. Nathanson spoke, for he was a medical doctor who pretended to have much authority on the matter of abortion. Eventually, he did have authority to speak on the matter being personally responsible for the death of 75,000 babies, including two of his own. (Bernard N. Nathanson, M.D., The Abortion Papers, Frederick Fell Publishers, 1983, p. 7-109) Fourth, claimed Nathanson, We aroused enough sympathy to sell our program of permissive abortion by fabricating the number of illegal abortions done annually in the U.S. The actual figure was approaching 100,000 but the figure we gave to the media repeatedly was 1,000,000. Repeating the big lie often enough convinces the public. The number of women dying from illegal abortions was around 200250 annually. The figure we constantly fed to the media was 10,000. (David Kupelian - Nathanson interview republished WND, Jan 2019 https://www.wnd.com/2019/01/my-interview-with-the-doctor-who-gave-america-legalized-abortion ) Fifth, Dr. Nathanson told the media that 60% of Americans wanted abortion-on-demand legalized. Terry asked him where he got that statistic and he said he pulled it out of thin air knowing that he needed to quote above 50% percent in order to sway public opinion. According to his book, The Abortion Papers, the real statistic was 1/2 of one percent of Americans wanted legalized abortion. (Bernard N. Nathanson, M.D., The Abortion Papers: Inside the Abortion Mentality, Frederick Fell Publishers, 1983) Sixth, he repeated the lies in the media. As you well know, if a lie is repeated often enough, it begins to sound like the truth. (Bernard N. Nathanson, M.D., The Abortion Papers: Inside the Abortion Mentality, Frederick Fell Publishers, 1983, p. 7-109) Seventh, Dr. Nathanson justified his demand by claiming that women who want abortions are going to procure them whether they are legal or not. As soon as abortion was decriminalized in 1970 under the lie that Its not a baby just a clump of cells, New Yorks abortion numbers sky-rocketed to close to 250,000. After Roe v Wade in 1973, abortion spiked ten-fold from under 100,000 per year to well over 1,000,000 per year and has hovered there ever since. (Terry Beatley, What If Weve Been Wrong, Guiding Light Books, 2016,) The eighth point was named The Catholic Strategy. NARAL knew that in order to secure and sustain an abortion law victory in New York, a significant portion of Catholic voters would have to be persuaded to support pro-abortion candidates even if they did not like the idea of killing babies. Because of the nearly 2,000-year-old magisterium declaring abortion to be an intrinsic evil, NARAL was faced with a problem: how to convince enough Catholics to support abortion politically. (Bernard N. Nathanson, M.D., The Abortion Papers: Inside the Abortion Mentality, Frederick Fell Publishers, 1983, p. 179) So, Dr. Nathanson and Lawrence Lader devised four tactics known as The Catholic Strategy which allowed them to use [Catholics] with great effect. Dr. Nathanson described it as the most brilliant political strategy of all times. These tactics aimed to shift enough Catholic voters to support pro-abortion candidates by: 1) blaming the Pope, bishops and priests anytime a woman died due to complications of an illegal abortion, 2) emphasizing Catholic politicians who were softening their position against abortion, 3) supporting Catholic candidates who were in support of decriminalizing abortion, and 4) implementing the Catholic Straddle which persuaded Catholics, politicians and voters that they could straddle the fence on this issue by remaining personally against abortion, but vote with the idea that every woman deserves the right the choose [to kill her baby] and make this decision with her doctorfathers excluded, by the way. (Bernard N. Nathanson, M.D., The Abortion Papers: Inside the Abortion Mentality, Frederick Fell Publishers, 1983, p. 179) This is how and why over 60 million babies have been slaughtered on the altar of choice. Thats approximately 1,875,000 pounds of human flesh or 937.5 tons of babies utterly destroyed, much of which is now sold on the secondary market in the name of research. (Check Your Fact.com, July 2018 https://checkyourfact.com/2018/07/03/fact-check-60-million-abortions/ ) (New York Times June 2015 https://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/28/health/fetal-tissue-from-abortions-for-research-is-traded-in-a-gray-zone.html ) On January 22, 1975, on the second anniversary of Roe v Wade, Dr. Nathanson resigned from NARAL stating in his never-seen-before resignation letter now published in Terrys book, And what if weve been wrong? if the Court should soon reverse itself on the abortion issue in the light of changing times and/or new scientific evidence? What an incalculable injustice will have been perpetrated. What an immeasurable irretrievable loss will have been suffered. The annual dues of NARAL are ten dollars and hubris of certainty. Regretfully, I can no longer afford those dues. Sincerely, Bernard N. Nathanson, M.D. Dr. Bernard Nathansons last words to Terry were, Continue teaching the strategy of how I deceived America, but also deliver this special message. Tell America that the co-founder of NARAL says to Love one another. Abortion is not love. Stop the killing. The world needs more love. Im all about love now. About Hosea Initiative: Terry Beatley promised Dr. Nathanson after he accepted the evil he helped unleash, that she would reveal the eight-point scheme he used to deceive America. To help fulfill this promise, Terry established Hosea Initiative, an educational 501(c) 3. She named the organization after the Bible verse Hosea 4:6 "My people are destroyed for lack to knowledge." http://www.Hosea4You.org Hosea: P.O. Box 56, Lancaster, Virginia 22503 info@hosea4you.org James Perry, VP of Business Development, will be the presenter at AWWA's ACE 2019 The fact that other consultants have independently chosen to present our solution demonstrates the success of our technology, and this is the biggest compliment possible. - Elly Perets, CEO Utilis will present Demystifying Satellite-Based Leak Detection, at an invited session for AWWAs 2019 Annual Conference and Expo (ACE), taking place June 10th -12th at the Colorado Convention Center. Additionally, presentations by outside consultants at the conference will include case studies from the Utilis customer base. Utilis will also be participating in a live interview podcast and have a booth at the exposition in space #4407. Our work is included in multiple case studies that are being presented at the conference, which is incredibly exciting, commented Elly Perets, CEO of Utilis, who will attend from Israel. The fact that other consultants have independently chosen to present our solution demonstrates the success of our technology, and this is the biggest compliment possible. Three opportunities to hear about Utilis will take place on the Monday of the conference. Beginning with a live Water Online podcast, James Perry, Utilis V.P. of Business Development, will be interviewed at 10am (taking place at booth# 4320). Leita Bennett of GHD will present the Prince William County Virginia case study in room Mile High 1A at 2pm, and Tori Yokoyama of Hazen and Sawyer will be presenting on a comparison of leakage reduction technologies in room Mile High 1A at 4pm. Lastly, the invited session will take place on Tuesday, presented by James Perry, in room Mile High 1D from 2:15-3:15pm. ABOUT UTILIS Utilis is the only patented technology using satellite microwave technology to penetrate soil in the search for drinking water associated with leaking pipes. As the worlds only drinking water leak detection provider, their algorithm brings remote sensing technologies to the forefront of protecting the earths resources. Headquartered in Israel, with a United States subsidiary in San Diego, CA, Utilis currently provides innovative solutions for utilities around the globe. For more information on Utilis and to learn more about our technology visit https://utiliscorp.com/ Naomi demonstrating Validation We are proud to collaborate with Ms. Feil in educating our team members and associate businesses to create a much higher quality of life for our memory care residents across the country and in China. Meridian Senior Living, LLC is proud to announce a life-changing opportunity to experience and learn from Naomi Feil, Founder of the Validation Training Institute, how to communicate with and reach cognitively impaired individuals. Validation Techniques for Families and Practitioners will be held on June 13, 2019 from 1-5 p.m., at The University of Akrons Quaker Station located at 135 Broadway Street, Akron, OH 44325. Meridian Senior Living and Ohio senior living communities: Heritage Crossing and Brooklyn Pointe are proud to be the major sponsors in bringing Naomi Feil to Akron for this unique workshop. This event offers 4 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for activities professionals. Attendees must register prior to this free event by visiting https://validationjune2019.eventbrite.com. We are proud to collaborate with Ms. Feil in educating our team members and associate businesses to create a much higher quality of life for our memory care residents across the country and in China, says Kevin Carlin, Principal and Chief Sales Officer, Meridian Senior Living. We are committed to enriching the lives of seniors and continue to actively support our memory care communities through education and proven staff training. This workshop is vital to caregivers as the global impact of dementia is staggering. According to the Alzheimers Association, as of 2015 there were 9.9 million new cases worldwide with one diagnosed every 3 seconds. There are 46.8 million people across the world living with dementia in 2015. This number is expected to double every 20 years to 74.7 million in 2030 and a whopping 131.5 million in 2050. And in our own country, one in nine people age 65 and older has Alzheimers disease. By mid-century, someone in the United States will develop the disease every 33 seconds. With that data in mind, all of us will be affected by Alzheimers in one way or another and understanding about the disease becomes increasingly important to deal capably with afflicted family members and loved ones. The speaker Naomi Feil, born in Munich in 1932, grew up in the Montefiore Home for the Aged in Cleveland, Ohio where her father was administrator and her mother was head of Social Services. After graduating with a Masters degree in Social Work from Columbia University, Naomi began working with the elderly. Between 1963 and 1980, Mrs. Feil developed the Validation technique as a response to her dissatisfaction with traditional methods of working with severely disoriented elders. Validation is a method of communicating with and helping cognitively impaired seniors. It helps reduce stress, enhances dignity and promotes happiness. Built on an empathetic and holistic approach, Validation asks caregivers to step into the shoes of those with dementia and see through their eyes to understand the meaning of their often-complex behaviors. This method allows seniors the opportunity to express, both verbal and non-verbal, their often-suppressed feelings and needs. Please see this video (Click here) to better understand and observe first-hand Validation therapy. Feil founded the Validation Training Institute (VTI) in 1983 and, as Executive Director of VTI, has traveled the world, including Germany, the Netherlands, Scandinavia, France, Belgium, Italy, Great Britain, and Austria. On behalf of Meridian Senior Living, she visited China to share her experience and Validation method with people from all walks of life. VTI, a U.S.-based, not-for-profit organization with a professional Board of Directors, has progressively developed certification levels and training programs, and formed a network of national and regional Validation organizations to disseminate information, train interested individuals, and maintain the spirit of Validation. To R.S.V.P. visit https://validationjune2019.eventbrite.com or contact Laura Miller at Heritage Crossing at (330) 483.5937. About Meridian Senior Living: Meridian Senior Living, LLC, a privately held company, owns and operates senior housing communities across the United States. With more than 7,000 beds, Meridian is among the largest senior housing operators in the United States. Meridian prides itself on providing the highest quality care and affordable living options to residents in their own communities. Although large in scale, Meridian focuses its growth effort on building state-of-the-art properties in cities outside major markets. For more information on Meridian Senior Living, visit us online at http://www.meridiansenior.com. As the New York Times bestselling author of the Grishaverse novelsthree million sold worldwideLeigh Bardugo has kept many a young adult up at night with her gripping fantasy tales. (Netflix is currently making a TV series out of the books.) Now she brings her brand of alchemy to the adult world with the publication of Ninth House (Flatiron, Oct.), a fantasy tale of power, privilege, and dark magic set among the Ivy League elitein particular, Yales storied secret societies. Show Daily talks with Leigh Bardugo about this turn in genre, among other things. What inspired you to enter the adult field? It wasnt that I wanted to leave YA behind, but this story pushed me into adult. I think the violence feels more visceral, maybe because its more explicit, maybe because its set in our world. And I think my heroines goals are a little different. Alex isnt working toward a single moment of revelation or revolution. Shes living with the terror of trying to build a life and a future. Will Ninth House be a standalone or the beginning of a series? I definitely conceived it as a series and Ive left quite a few questions unanswered. But for readers who are hesitant to get involved in a series, I think the book could stand on its own. This is set at Yale. Elite colleges have been at the center of much discussion these days about the privileged and powerful. Was this a deliberate choice? I went to Yale, and the idea was born of being in that environment where there are actual secret societies with actual tombs, or clubhouses, scattered around campus. I thought, what if these werent just old-boy networks? What if they were repositories of arcane knowledge? I wanted to write a dark, magical romp. But you cant explore these ideas at an institution like Yale without discussing privilege, and I couldnt dig into my own time as an undergraduate without confronting issues of gender and power. What attracted you to the science fiction and fantasy field? Science fiction and fantasy saved me. When I went to junior high, I started a new school, my mom remarried, we moved. I was having a really tough time. Thats when I started reading and writing in these genres. It became a survival mechanismthese worlds were expansive in a way that my world was not. They showed me places where being clever, brave, and dangerous mattered more than being cheerful and cute. It was a lifeline. Today, 1:402:20 p.m. Leigh Bardugo discusses Ninth House on the Downtown Stage. Today, 34 p.m. Bardugo will sign 100 galleys at the Macmillan booth (1544). WWE RAW REPORT: SHANE WRESTLES, BROCK DANCES, DOLPH TALKS, AND BROCK ALSO LEARNS ABOUT THE MITB CASH IN STIPULATION We begin tonight's show with a video package for Memorial Day. We are in Kansas City, Missouri and your announcers are Michael Cole, Renee Young, and Corey Graves. Brock Lesnar is in the back with Paul Heyman and Paul says they should make their way to the ring as Brock picks up his briefcase/boom box. WWE Champion Kofi Kingston makes his way to the ring.and he has pancakes. We see what happened to Kofi Kingston on Smackdown. Kofi says last week on Smackdown, Kevin Owens took out Big E and reinjured his knee. After his match, you saw what Dolph Ziggler did. Dolph brutalized him in and out of the ring and he tried to end Kofi. Kofi says that Dolph did not finish the job because he is standing tall. When the time is right, he will address Dolph Ziggler. Tonight, Kofi says he is here for Mr. Money in the Bank. Paul Heyman said that Brock chooses his opponent tonight. Kofi says he is not only a fighting champion and one of the greatest of all time and that happens if he can beat Brock Lesnar. Kofi wants Brock to come out and cash in his contract on him tonight. WWE Universal Champion Seth Rollins makes his way to the ring. Seth says he is not Brock Lesnar, he is better. Seth says he came out here because of where Kofi's head is. Seth says he wants to know who Brock is going to cash in on. Seth wants Brock to come out to make his decision. Brock Lesnar's music plays and then we get a party mix as Brock goes full Radio Raheem to the ring. Brock looks at Kofi while Kofi's music plays and then he turns his attention to Seth when it changes to Seth's music. Seth drops his mic and leaves the ring because he will not deal with any of Brock's games. Paul says it is just like Seth Rollins to pee on everybody's parade. Paul says his client, Brock Lesnar, was going to announce right here, right now, against whom he was going to cash in the briefcase against but Seth Rollins has ruined the Brock Party. Paul says don't blame them, blame Seth Rollins. Paul and Brock leave the ring. Brock goes up the ring and Kofi goes to the apron, but Dolph Ziggler attacks Kofi and knocks him off the apron and hits a Zig Zag on the ramp. Dolph gets a chair and Xavier Woods attacks Dolph before Dolph can hit Kofi. We go to commercial. We are back and Kofi Kingston is being helped up the ramp and Dolph Ziggler hits Woods from behind and Woods with punches. Woods punches Ziggler and brings him to the ring. Woods punches Ziggler but Ziggler sends Woods to the floor. Ziggler rakes the eyes Ziggler sends Woods into the ringside barrier. Woods punches Ziggler and sends him into the crowd. Woods with an elbow off the ringside barrier. Woods takes Ziggler and sends him back into the crowd after momentarily sending Ziggler back into the ringside area. Woods punches Ziggler but Ziggler hits Woods with a trash can. Woods sends Ziggler into the dasher boards and then Woods throws another trash can at Ziggler. They return to the ringside area and Ziggler kicks Woods in the knee and sends him into the ring steps. Ziggler takes a chair and hits Woods in the back with it many times. Ziggler sends Woods back into the ring and Ziggler hits Woods in the back with a chair. Ziggler puts the chair around Xavier's head and Kofi makes his way to the ring and Ziggler escapes into the crowd. We go to commercial. We are back and Kofi helps Xavier in the ring. Dolph comes back out to the stage and he has something to say. Dolph says he thought he knew Kofi but you have been wasting all of your time on Brock Lesnar cashing in his contract when you should have been worrying about him. In eleven days, you defend that WWE title against him. Dolph asks that Kofi does one thing. He wants Kofi to celebrate like you never have before for the next eleven days. Dolph says that Kofi is the best WWE Champion that he can remember. Every time he sees that title and Kofi, it reminds him that it should have been him. Dolph says he admires Kofi. You have had two friends to watch your back every step of the way. Some people said you were no better than a B+ player, but Dolph says he defended Kofi. What happens when you don't have that title? More specifically, what happens when I take that WWE Title from you? The millions of fans that look up to you since Day One? What happens to the fans when I take that title from you? Dolph says it took a little bit longer than he wanted because at Wrestlemania, it should have been him. At Super Showdown, it will be him. We see a Memorial Day cookout and the Usos are the hosts. Jey wishes Nattie a happy birthday. Jimmy says everybody is invited and Jey wants to know if that includes the Revival, but that isn't happening. They welcome everyone to the Usos Block Party. Shane is shuffling and punching at air and he is asked about his match tonight. Shane says he is getting ready for Roman Reigns at Super Showdown and he tells Drew it is time to go to the ring. We go to commercial. We are back with the Randy Orton and Triple H video package. Shane says the McMahon family and Samoan dynasty have been pillars of the WWE. It all comes down to respect. Shane says respect was ingrained in him since a young age. It has not for Roman Reigns. That explains how Roman Reigns was able to strike down the patriarch of the WWE. What type of human being strikes down another man's father? Roman Reigns. Look at who Roman is representing. It goes back to the High Chief Peter Maivia. Then you have the Rock, the Headshrinkers and the Usos. The two most vicious were the Wild Samoans. Afa and Roman Reigns' father, Sika. Shane grew up knowing Afa and Sika. He says he may know them better than Roman does. He had a front seat for all of their accomplishments and their mistakes. Shane says he is not going to disparage the Wild Samoans because that is not in him. It is not part of his DNA. Shane says his father was always there to clean up Afa and Sika's mistakes. Shane says he is here to represent the McMahon family and he is ready to fight. Who from the Samoan Dynasty will walk down that aisle to face him and he is next and will face the Best in the World. We go to commercial. Match Number One: Shane McMahon (with Drew McIntyre) versus Lance Anoa'i Drew pulls Lance out of the ring before the bell rings and then Drew runs Lance into the ringside barrier and apron before dropping Lance on the ring steps. Shane tells Drew this is too much and he almost sounds sincere. Drew sends Lance into the ring post and then hits an overhead belly-to-belly suplex. Drew chops Lance. Shane says it is time for Lance to come back into the ring. The bell rings and SHane with a knee and punch like punches. Shane with kicks and more punches before Shane shuffles and kicks Lance. Lance with punches but Shane punches back. Lance with punches followed by a drop kick. Lance goes for a super kick but Shane with an elbow and crossfaces. Shane with a figure four head scissors and Lance taps out. Winner: Shane McMahon After the match, Shane tells Drew to hit Lance and then he reapplies the figure four head scissors. He says the biggest mistake that Sika ever made was spawning Roman Reigns. Roman's music plays and he makes his way to the ring and gives Drew a Superman punch. Shane leaves the ring and Roman grabs Shane before he can escape. Shane with an elbow but Roman with a Superman punch off the steps. They return to the ring and Roman sets for the spear but Drew pulls Shane out of the ring. We see Shane and Drew in the back as we go to commercial. Coverage continues on next page 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! 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 US cable giant Comcast is planning to replace premium cable channel Cinemax with a network called Hitz. Hitz will be a commercial-free, on-demand film service available as part of Xfinity Premier, Super and certain other TV packages. Hitz will feature more than 200 movies and will be included with these packages at no additional cost; the selection will evolve over time.Movie lovers of all kinds will enjoy Hitz, Comcast said in a notice . This exciting new offering will provide even better value and variety for you.Cinemax, the cableco argued, is redundant from a content perspective.Most of the movies on Cinemax have also aired on HBO , according to the company. By offering Hitz instead, well be delivering customers a better variety of content.Die-hard Cinemax fans can also buy the premium networks direct-to-consumer (DTC) service, for $12 per month. Twelve countries have committed to orders of the F-35 joint strike fighter either as formal partner nations or through foreign military sales. As production of the fifth-generation systems ramp up, the joint program office and manufacturer Lockheed Martin are looking to expand their global footprint even further. Australia, Canada, Denmark, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Turkey and the United Kingdom currently are in formal partnership with the United States on the F-35 program. Israel, Japan and South Korea have made orders through the foreign military sales process. Belgium also recently signed on to purchase platforms. Iran in Iraq Iraq has been described by Frederick Kagan as Irans Poland given Iraqs role as the linchpin of Irans sphere of influence. Iraq serves as the northern flank of Irans double envelopment of Saudi Arabia, while Iran threatens Israel with weapons and fighters sent through Iraq to Syria and Lebanon. Iran has armed these militias with small arms, rocket systems, anti-tank missiles, anti-aircraft missiles, and materials for improvised explosive devices for targeting U.S. troops, while Hezbollah and Irans Revolutionary Guard have provided training to Iraqi militants. Iran has escalated its proliferation in Iraq by arming these militias with ballistic missiles that can reach population centers in Saudi Arabia and Israel. Iran established a presence in Iraq after the overthrow of Saddam Husseins regime and played a central role in sponsoring and coordinating insurgent elements. These same insurgent elements were included in so-called Popular Mobilization Forces combating the emergence of ISIS. Iranian-backed militias have since proved unresponsive to civilian control while engaging in pogroms and other atrocities targeting Sunni Arabs, Assyrian Christians, and even Shiite Turkmen. The extent of the impunity and influence of Iranian-backed militias in Iraq led to former Iraqi prime minister Ayad Allawi, a Shia Muslim, to describe Iraq as a failed state...an Iranian colony, while former Iraqi parliamentarian Mowaffak al-Rubaei, who is also Shia, claimed Iranian special forces commander Qassem Suleimani was the most powerful man in Iraq without question. U.S. Strategy and Iran Among the strategies developed for responding to asymmetric threats is what David Kilcullen proposed as disaggregation wherein the threat is recognized as emanating from a central ideological actor that builds a web of dependency that will feed on local grievances, integrate them into broader ideologies, and link disparate conflicts through globalized communications, finances, and technology. While Iran is not Al-Qaeda or ISIS, there are parallels between how they operate. The vulnerable points in these networks are the links that are used to weave separate conflicts into a broader campaign. Whereas Israel and Saudi Arabia have focused on targeting the nodes of Irans networks, such as strikes against Irans proxies, disaggregation would focus on disrupting the financial, technological, and sectarian-ideological connections that Iran uses as the links. The endgame of a disaggregation strategy, according to Kilcullen, would then be a series of disparate local conflicts that can be addressed at the regional or national level without [foreign] interference. The end of payments and the return of sanctions on the regime in Tehran should be only the starting point of diminishing its ability to finance its forces and proxies. The formal designation of Iranian forces or proxies as terrorist organizations, such as Irans Revolutionary Guard, would facilitate the enforcement of these sanctions. The next candidates should include the Houthi militias, which have already been designated as a terrorist entity by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and the Iranian-backed militias that engage in political violence against civilians in Iraq. The interception of arms proliferation by the regime in Tehran should be the next step. The U.S. should continue supporting Saudi Arabias efforts to interdict smuggling into Yemen by Iran and its proxies regardless of the surrounding political controversy. In Syria and Iraq, the U.S. could interdict Iranian transfers of weapons and fighters through Iraq to Syria with airstrikes and special forces while signaling to the Russians that the U.S. will intervene to defend Israel against retaliation. The U.S. and its allies have a role to play in undermining sectarian narratives Iran exploits. Saudi Arabias opening to Iraq, including outreach to Shia clerics disillusioned with Iran, can be the first step in a diplomatic process that disrupts Irans sectarian-based coalition-building. The U.S. and Saudi Arabia could also play a role in undermining Irans self-appointed role as the champion of Shia Islam by promoting its historical center in Iraq. Since Irans revolution in 1979, the regime in Tehran and its proxies have presented a competing version of Shia Islam based on extremist interpretations that rival the more moderate form represented by Najaf in Iraq. The U.S. should encourage Saudi Arabias ongoing efforts to promote integration and discourage radicalization among its own Shia while encouraging the Kingdom to engage in a similar outreach towards Yemens Shia minority. The U.S. and Saudi Arabia face a political disadvantage in Yemen as the popular narrative among media commentators frames sectarianism as central to the origin and purpose of the Saudi intervention while neglecting its historical context and geopolitical implications. After the Kingdom supported a Shia theocracy against rebels backed by Egypt and the Soviet Union in 1962, Saudi interventions since have always been in support of established governments against foreign-backed insurgencies given long standing concerns that armed conflict or civil unrest could spill over border from Yemen. Sectarian tensions, which are undoubtedly leveraged by Saudi Arabia and Iran, nonetheless fail to fully and accurately describe the motives behind the Saudi intervention in Yemen. U.S. policy options towards sectarianism in Syria are more challenging given the Assad regimes nominal secularism, its dependence on a self-styled Islamic Republic, and the increasing role that jihadists and Islamists have played in the opposition to the Assad regime. The dissolution of the Assad regime might leave behind a remaining Iranian enclave and a patchwork of fiefdoms that could include jihadists and Islamists on Israels borders. The reunification of Syria under the Assad regime, on the other hand, would not mean the stabilization of Syria under a secular strongman but the consolidation of Irans presence. Syria thus brings to mind Henry Kissingers rumored quip regarding the Iran-Iraq War, its a pity they cant both lose. U.S. interests regarding Syria could best be served by ensuring that no faction in the civil war, including the Assad regime, achieves a disproportionate advantage that would give it any territorial or operational edge against U.S. allies. USS Abraham Lincoln has been sent to the Persian Gulf amid tensions with Iran. (Jason Waite/Getty Images) The U.S. should signal to Iran that it will respond to any countermoves made by Iranian forces and proxies against the U.S. forces or U.S. allies. A contingency plan and a show of force in the region should be the basis of a pattern to establish and expand deterrence towards the regime. A strategy of disaggregation coupled with deterrence is best option for the U.S. It may not eliminate the threats from the regime in Tehran, but it can limit the scope and potential for escalation. The risks of miscalculation between the U.S. and Iran should be weighed against the risks of uncertainty about U.S. capabilities and resolve to defend its interests and its allies in the Middle East. The alternative to countering Irans adventures in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq is not peace but more war. Introduction The U.S. mainstream view of Russia has changed quite a bit in the last twenty years, particularly in the last five. We have moved from the fantasy that there was no threat from Russia after the demise of the Soviet Union to a recognition of a serious Russian threat to the U.S. and its allies, including a nuclear threat in the last two years of the Obama administration and the Trump administration. However, characterizing the relationship between the U.S. and Russia as competition as it now appears in U.S. Government documents[1], does not go far enough. Lockheed and Boeing compete; Russia threatens preemptive nuclear attack. It is unilaterally trying to create a sphere of influence in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet states in the classic 19th Century sense while building the largest nuclear arsenal in the world. There is no competition here but rather a serious threat from Russia. Russia and Nuclear Weapons Putins economic policies are a disaster for Russia; yet he continues to modernize and expand Russias military and nuclear capabilities. In January 2017, Russian Defense Minister General of the Army Sergei Shoigu stated that development of the strategic nuclear force was Russias first priority, noting that Russia will continue a massive program of nuclear rearmament, deploying modern ICBMs on land and sea, [and] modernizing the strategic bomber force.[2] The 2018 Nuclear Posture Review report agrees stating, In addition to modernizing legacy Soviet nuclear systems, Russia is developing and deploying new nuclear warheads and launchers. These efforts include multiple upgrades for every leg of the Russian nuclear triad of strategic bombers, sea-based missiles, and land-based missiles. Russia is also developing at least two new intercontinental range systems, a hypersonic glide vehicle, and a new intercontinental, nuclear-armed, nuclear-powered, undersea autonomous torpedo.[3] Secretary of Energy Rick Perry and National Nuclear Security Administration Director Lisa Gordon-Hagerty in April 2019 told the Senate Armed Services Committee, Russia and China are investing massive resources into upgrading and expanding their nuclear arsenals, all at a time when they seek to challenge U.S. interests and unravel U.S. alliances around the world.[4] Russias New Nuclear Superweapons Russias only real claim to be a great power is its nuclear weapons. Therefore, it is hardly surprising that Russia has officially announced over 20 new or modernized strategic nuclear systems.[5] Putin routinely brandishes his nuclear superweapons because he believes Russia gets political benefits from nuclear threats. In his March 2018 State of the Nation address, Putin bragged about five new Russian nuclear systems. Putins superweapons include:[6] The new Sarmat heavy ICBM whose capabilities Putin said are much higher than the Cold War Soviet SS-18 ICBM because it will carry a broad range of powerful nuclear warheads and the Sarmat has practically no range restrictions. [7] The Sarmat is reported in the Russian state media as capable of carrying 10 warheads of 800-kilotons or 15 warheads of 350-kilotons. [8] It will be their main counterforce weapon. In light of reported Russian development of variable yield missile warheads, [9] it is also likely to have a low-yield option. The Sarmat is reported in the Russian state media as capable of carrying 10 warheads of 800-kilotons or 15 warheads of 350-kilotons. It will be their main counterforce weapon. In light of reported Russian development of variable yield missile warheads, it is also likely to have a low-yield option. The Burevestnik, a nuclear-powered cruise missile carrying a nuclear warhead, which Putin said had almost an unlimited range This is a very dangerous weapons system from a testing safety standpoint because every flight will end in a radiation release. An ultra-fast and deep-diving nuclear-powered drone submarine called the Poseidon which Putin said would carry massive nuclear ordnance. This weapon has similar safety problems as the nuclear-powered cruise missile. Worse, it is a weapon of genocide. If it were used, there would be no way to limit its damage. It is reported in the Russian press to carry a 100-megaton weapon and possibly a cobalt bomb, a doomsday weapon never built during the Cold War. [10] A single submarine armed with these weapons would release more fallout than the entire U.S. strategic force even if we used it in the most destructive manner. [11] TASS reports it will be deployed during the current procurement plan which goes until 2027. [12] A single submarine armed with these weapons would release more fallout than the entire U.S. strategic force even if we used it in the most destructive manner. TASS reports it will be deployed during the current procurement plan which goes until 2027. A high-precision hypersonic aircraft missile system, the Kinzhal, which is capable of delivering nuclear and conventional warheads in a range of over 2,000-km, and which is now operational. The Chief of the Russian Aerospace Force called it an aeroballistic missile. [13] Deputy Russian Defense Minister Yuri Borisov said that ten Kinzhals are operational on the Mig-31 fighters and TASS, the main official Russian news agency, reports that an aeroballistic missile," obviously the Kinzhal, will be carried by the Su-34 long-range strike fighter. [14] State-run Sputnik News says the Backfire bomber can carry four Kinzhal missiles. [15] [16] Deputy Russian Defense Minister Yuri Borisov said that ten Kinzhals are operational on the Mig-31 fighters and TASS, the main official Russian news agency, reports that an aeroballistic missile," obviously the Kinzhal, will be carried by the Su-34 long-range strike fighter. State-run Sputnik News says the Backfire bomber can carry four Kinzhal missiles. The Avangard nuclear hypersonic boost glide vehicle which Putin characterizes as, "A real technological breakthrough" which he said, "has been successfully tested." TASS says it has a two-megaton warhead. [17] In June 2018, President Putin said it was in serial production. [18] The Russians have said that it will be operational in 2019. [19] In his February 2019 State of the Nation address to the Duma, President Putin promoted the new Tsirkon (Zircon) hypersonic missile into the superweapon category.[20] These are real programs. According to STRATCOM Commander General John Hyten, you should believe Vladimir Putin about everything he said hes working on.[21] Based on open sources it appears that four of these systems are nuclear armed and two are nuclear capable.[22] In April 2019, Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov said that these weapons were not subject to the New START Treaty.[23] It is clear that the New START Treaty does not restrain four of the six and the fifth is only subject to the Treaty because it uses an ICBM as a booster. In March 2019, Antonov said Russia would not agree to changes to the New START Treaty to bring these weapons into it.[24] Anyone who thinks the New START Treaty protects us against Putins nuclear threat is living in a fantasy world. Current Status of Russian Nuclear Modernization On December 24, 2018, Russian Defense Minister General of the Army Sergey Sergei Shoigu said Russia had achieved an unprecedented level of equipment with modern weapons, surpassing all other nations.[25] He stated that 1) "The modernity level of the Strategic Nuclear Forces has reached 82%..."; 2) the new Sarmat heavy ICBM had been successfully tested in a pop-up test; 3) in 2019, the first missile regiment [will be] equippedwith [the] Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle and would become operational; 4) in 2019, a total of 31 Yars and Avangard nuclear ICBMs would be put on combat duty; 5) in 2019, the first Borey A ballistic missile submarine would become operational; 6) four Tu-95 nuclear-capable bombers would be modernized; and 7) Russia had conducted a salvo launch of 12 nuclear capable Kh-101 cruise missiles from a Tu-160 heavy bomber.[26] This adds up to the modernization in a single year of about 10 percent of the declared Russian strategic nuclear force under the New START Treaty .[27] TASS also reported that the new version of the Tu-160 (the Tu-160M2), which will add 500 additional deployed warheads to the Russian strategic nuclear force, is now being manufactured.[28] Thanks to the 2018 Nuclear Posture Review report we now have official confirmation of much of what Russia says it was doing and disclosure of some things that the Russians do not talk about presumably because they involve arms control violations. It states, While Russia initially followed Americas lead and made similarly sharp reductions in its strategic nuclear forces, it retained large numbers of non-strategic nuclear weapons. Today, Russia is modernizing these weapons as well as its other strategic systems. Even more troubling has been Russias adoption of military strategies and capabilities that rely on nuclear escalation for their success. These developments, coupled with Russias seizure of Crimea and nuclear threats against our allies, mark Moscows decided return to Great Power competition.[29] Russian nuclear modernization is literally never-ending. All legs of the Russian Triad are being modernized. When Russia deploys a new system, it starts work on the follow-on. We dont. We are pursuing a minimum program to maintain a nuclear triad replacing systems only when very old. We are almost a decade away from any new systems actually being deployed. The Number of Deployed Russian Strategic Nuclear Weapons Russian New START data are very limited and of little use. Russias declared New START numbers are apparently not real and certainly not verifiable because of the Treatys many loopholes and limited and ineffective verification provisions.[30] There are inspections but they cant verify anything because of the lack of attribution rules in the Treaty. (Attribution rules establish both a minimum and maximum number of warheads for each missile type). There is no way to verify the total number of accountable warheads much less the number of actual deployed warheads which is clearly much higher. There is no Senate Select Intelligence Committee report on New START verification because there is no credible way to claim it is verifiable. Then-Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Senator Christopher Bond summed it up during New START ratification: The Select Committee on Intelligence has been looking at this issue closely over the past several months. As the vice chairman of this committee, I have reviewed the key intelligence on our ability to monitor this treaty and heard from our intelligence professionals. There is no doubt in my mind that the United States cannot reliably verify the treatys 1,550 limit on deployed warheads.[31] In December 2018, the Commander of the Strategic Missile Force Colonel General Sergei Karakayev stated that the nuclear potentials of the sides have [been] reduced more than 66% since the signing of START I.[32] This is a major departure from the standard Russian position which claimed it had made an 85% reduction.[33] If one uses the late Soviet declared number of over 10,000 deployed strategic nuclear warheads for the calculations,[34] the difference between an 85% reduction and a 66% reduction is almost 2,000 strategic nuclear warheads above the supposed New START Treaty allowed level of 1,550. This is much higher than any previous unclassified Western estimate of currently deployed Russian strategic nuclear warheads. For example, in 2018, Hans M. Kristensen and Robert S. Norris estimated that Russia has 2,522 deployed strategic nuclear warheads.[35] While the New START Treaty warhead limit is not real because of the Treatys many loopholes, a force of over 3,300 Russian deployed strategic nuclear warheads (a two-to-one and growing Russian advantage in strategic nuclear weapons) is very significant and could impact Putins future decisions regarding war or peace. To deploy more than 3,300 strategic nuclear warheads today, it takes more than simple exploitation of the New START Treaty bomber weapon counting rule which counts a bomber load of nuclear weapons as one warhead.[36] The Kristensen and Norris number already does this. A current level of over 3,300 warheads requires a substantial covert force of heavily MIRVed mobile ICBMs and/or cheating on warhead numbers on declared delivery vehicles There is evidence of a covert Russian mobile ICBM force. In December 2014, Colonel General Karakayev said, There are currently around 400 missiles [ICBMs] with warheads on combat duty.[37] General Karakayev has repeated his claim that Russia has deployed about 400 ICBMs several times.[38] Yet, Russias declared strategic force numbers make it impossible for Russia to have more than about 300 ICBMs legally with warheads on combat duty. Interestingly, in 2011, the Russian Space Agency published a request for proposals for eliminating ICBMs including the Kuryer, a late Soviet-era small mobile ICBM. This missile should have been declared under the START Treaty and the New START Treaty but it was not.[39] This is a violation of the New START Treaty. Deployed Russian strategic nuclear weapons numbers will almost certainly increase. According to Bill Gertz, A U.S. intelligence official said Moscow is expanding its nuclear arsenal and is expected to deploy a total force of 8,000 warheads by 2026 along with modernizing deep underground bunkers.[40] There is evidence in the Russian state media that the Backfire bomber is now a non-declared heavy bomber under the New START Treaty which is a violation of the Treaty. If the Backfire has become a heavy bomber, it counts against the New START Treaty limit. This may put Russia above the New START limit of 1,550 accountable warheads, and, hence, in violation of the Treaty. The New START heavy bomber definition (The New START Treaty, Protocol, Part 1, definition 23) states: The term heavy bomber means a bomber of a type, any one of which satisfies either of the following criteria: (a) Its range is greater than 8000 kilometers; or (b) It is equipped for long-range [600-km] nuclear ALCMs. The Backfire bomber is an extremely important system because it is the subject of a very substantial upgrade (the Tu-22M3M) and will reportedly be operational this year. TASS reports the new NK-32-02 engines to be put on the Backfire are the same engine to be used in the new Tu-160M2 heavy bomber, which Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yury Borisov said will increase its range 1,000-km+ (about 600 miles).[41] The improved version of the Backfire (Tu-223M3), according to noted aviation journalist Alexander Mladenov, has a range of 5,000 nautical miles (10,000-km).[42] This would be well beyond the heavy bomber range threshold. The Backfire reportedly now carries new nuclear-capable cruise missiles that alone would turn it into a heavy bomber under the New START Treaty definition. It carries the new Kh-32 1,000-km range cruise missile, according to TASS.[43] The Kh-32 is described in the 2018 Nuclear Posture Review report as being nuclear capable.[44] State-run Sputnik News confirms this saying, the Kh-32 can carry either conventional or nuclear munitions.[45] State-run Russia Beyond the Headlines also says its range is 1,000-km and it can be armed with a nuclear or conventional 500-kilogram (1,102 lb) warhead and hit targets within a few yards.[46] Rossiyskaya Gazeta, the official newspaper of the Russian Government, reports the new version of the Backfire (Tu-22M3M) can carry the Kh-101 and the Kh-555, both long-range air-launched cruise missiles.[47] The Kh-101 is nuclear capable, according to Putin and the Russian Ministry of Defense.[48] The Kh-555 was long reported to be the conventional modification of the Kh-55 (AS-15) nuclear air-launched cruise missile. However, Sputnik News says it is dual capable: Second, in addition to the nuclear option, the Kh-555 can carry up to 410 kg of conventional munitions.[49] It also noted that it was five times as accurate as the Kh-55. Russian Non-Strategic Nuclear Weapons Russia has thousands of tactical or non-strategic nuclear weapons. According to General Paul Selva, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Russia is developing new nonstrategic nuclear weapons[50] Russian press reports indicate that Russia has retained virtually every type of Cold War tactical nuclear weapon capability.[51] The Nuclear Posture Review confirms this: "These include air-to-surface missiles, short-range ballistic missiles, gravity bombs, and depth charges for medium-range bombers, tactical bombers, and naval aviation, as well as anti-ship, anti-submarine, and anti-aircraft missiles and torpedoes for surface ships and submarines, a nuclear ground-launched cruise missile in violation of the 1987 INF Treaty, and Moscow's antiballistic missile system."[52] The Obama administration stated that Russia had a ten-to-one advantage vis-a-vis the U.S. in non-strategic nuclear weapons (thousands vs. hundreds).[53] During the Cold War, we had thousands of tactical nuclear weapons in Europe to deter attack. They are now almost completely gone and dismantled.[54] Empowering Putin in this manner increases the risk of war in Europe and Russian nuclear escalation. Putins Nuclear Strategy As noted Russia expert Dr. Steven Blank has pointed out, since 1993 Russia has changed its posture from no first use [of nuclear weapons] to first use, and now to preemption.[55] Putin personally developed Russias year 2000 nuclear strategy which allows for the first use of nuclear weapons in conventional war when he was Secretary of the Russian National Security Council Staff.[56] Like real Soviet nuclear doctrine, as distinct from Soviet declaratory policy, it allowed for first use of nuclear weapons. However, there were differences. Planned Soviet first use was massive and in support of a rapid invasion of Western Europe with little concern over collateral damage. In Russian doctrinal literature, Russian first use of nuclear weapons is limited and designed to produce low collateral damage, but it still risks massive escalation. The effect of this, as NATO Secretary General Jen Stoltenberg stated in March 2018, has been blurring of the line between nuclear and conventional warfare which lowers the threshold for Russias use of nuclear weapons.[57] Senior Russian officials have talked about nuclear pre-emption as far back as 2006. In 2009, Secretary of the Russian National Security Council Nikolai Patrushev said that Russian nuclear doctrine allows for the first use of nuclear weapons in regional or even a local war and noted, In situations critical to national security, options including a preventative nuclear strike on the aggressor are not excluded.[58] In June 2015, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense Robert Work and then-Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral James Winnefeld observed, Russian military doctrine includes what some have called an escalate to de-escalate strategya strategy that purportedly seeks to deescalate a conventional conflict through coercive threats, including limited nuclear use, a policy they categorized as playing with fire.[59] In 2017, then-DIA Director Lt. General Vincent Stewart said Russia has built nuclear de-escalation into their operational concept, weve seen them exercise that idea[60] In April 2018, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg declared, Russiahas invested heavily in new military equipment, modernized their forces, which are exercising more including with nuclear forces, integrating exercises with nuclear capabilities with conventional capabilities[61] In 1999, Colonel General Vladimir Muravyev, Deputy Commander of the Strategic Missile Force, said, the deterrent actions of strategic forces[involve] strikes with both conventional and nuclear warheads with the goal of de-escalating the military conflict, and Russian forces should be capable of conducting surgical strikesusing both highly accurate, super-low yield nuclear weapons, as well as conventional ones[62] Russia has reportedly introduced low-yield, precision low-yield and low-collateral damage nuclear weapons in large numbers. A now declassified CIA report from 2000 states, Moscows military doctrine on the use of nuclear weapons has been evolving and probably has served as the justification for the development of very low-yield, high-precision nuclear weapons.[63] Russian press reports, including the state media, say that low-sub-kiloton yield warheads are now deployed on Russian SLBMs and there are reports of dial-a-yield on the missile warheads on Russian ICBMs.[64] Dr. Philip Karber, President of the Potomac Foundation, has stated that roughly half of Russias 5,000 tactical nuclear weapons have been modernized with new sub-kiloton nuclear warheads for air-defense, torpedoes and cruise missiles.[65] Russian Information Warfare and Nuclear Threats Russia puts great emphasis on information warfare which is waged on a global basis 24/7. Russia is more or less simultaneously running an arms control and nuclear threat offensive, while not correcting its violations of the INF Treaty and stating that it will not close any of the loopholes in the New START Treaty.[66] The standard Russian nuclear missile targeting threat, conceived by the Commander of their Strategic Missile Force in 2007, has recently evolved in several ways. Hypersonic missiles are now a part of it. It has moved from targeting missile defense to targeting fictional U.S. ground-launched INF-range nuclear missile deployments in Europe. Even more dangerous is that the new Gerasimov doctrine, announced in March 2019 in a major speech, is based on deployment of forces beyond the boundaries of Russia, pre-emption and the threat of nuclear targeting of the U.S. National Command Authority, something that is only done if a nation is fighting an all-out nuclear war. Between October 24, 2018 and March 2019, the nuclear missile targeting threat was made at least 11 times at the highest levels by President Putin, by the Chief of the General Staff General of the Army Valery Gerasimov, by the Strategic Missile Force Commander Colonel General Sergei Karakayev, by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov and by Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov.[67] This time the initial targeting threat was not made by the Commander of the Strategic Missile Force and repeated by Putin as it was in 2007. In 2018, Putin made the first threat and it was subsequently picked up by the generals. In December 2018, Colonel General Sergei Karakayev said, following deployment of US intermediate missiles in Europe and the ensuing new threats to our security, are undoubtedly taken into account during the planning of the Strategic Missile Force use.[68] According to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, There are hypersonic warheads, different types of air and underwater autonomous systems, the new heavy missile, which is being developed. Successful test-launches of the Avangard and Kinzhal systems were recently conducted. All this and much more makes up the set of forces and means that reliably neutralize any potential threat on the part of the U.S. and any other direction wherever they come from.[69] In his February 2019 State of the Nation address to the Duma, President Putin hinted that the Tsirkon hypersonic missile would be used to launch surprise strikes against the U.S. national command authority (the President, the line of succession, the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, senior military leaders, and the nuclear command and control system).[70] Within days, a retired Russian admiral said that the Tsirkon would be capable of hitting command posts in the U.S. within five minutes from Russian submarines and Russias Vesti Nedeli state TV station published a list of American targets it said the Kremlin could strike with hypersonic nuclear missiles within five minutes if war breaks out.[71] They were apparently command and control facilities. In an important March 2019 speech, the Chief of the Russian General Staff General of the Army Valery Gerasimov said Russia was forced to plan future delivery of strikes against decision making centers[72] This is a very serious threat because Washington is undefended against hypersonic missiles and because of the lack of deep underground bunkers in Washington to protect the national command authority from a surprise nuclear attack. The President has to be removed from the Washington D.C. area before Russian warheads arrive and this means there must be enough warning time to carry out this evacuation. Command centers are only hit with nuclear weapons in the context of an all-out nuclear war. Russia has been talking about strategic cruise missile submarines since 2011.[73] With dual capable missiles, they would be a circumvention of the New START Treaty since they would not be limited by it. In April 2019, TASS reported that Russia may deploy, after 2027, cruise missile carrying Borei-K submarines.[74] The Borei is Russias most modern strategic nuclear missile submarine. A cruise missile-carrying version of the submarine and the nuclear weapons it carries would not be limited by the New START Treaty despite being able to carry large numbers of nuclear cruise missiles. TASS also reported that Russia was developing a multi-role fifth-generation submarine that will carry Tsirkon hypersonic missiles [which] will be among its strike weapons.[75] In the last several months, senior Russian officials threatened a nuclear arms race,[76] gloated about Russias new super nuclear weapons,[77] and warned about the end of arms control and a nuclear arms race.[78] Moreover, Russia conducted bomber provocations, including deployment of Tu-160s nuclear capable bombers to Venezuela, with its implied threat of a new Cuban Missile Crisis.[79] We dont make such threats against Russia. Indeed, we have never even warned Russia about what might happen to it if it implemented its nuclear threats. Russian Violations of the INF Treaty Russia is violating the INF Treaty in a very critical way. It is apparently much more than the SSC-8/9M729 ground-launched nuclear-capable cruise missiles which the U.S. Government has officially determined to be a violation of the INF Treaty. According to Latvias Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics, We knew that the INF Treaty was violated long before the United States decided to withdraw. We also knew, and spoke about it many times, that four different types [of missiles banned under the INF Treaty] were already targeted at the Baltic statesthey were deployed in Kaliningrad and Russian territory near our borders.[80] Regarding the SSC-8/9M729, the evidence of violations of the INF Treaty is so overwhelming that NATO has declared the violation to be a material breach of the INF Treaty.[81] Unfortunately, this is not the only reported violation. According to the Russian press, including the state media, the Russian R-500/9M728 ground-launched cruise missile has a range which violates the INF Treaty.[82] The Russians, in their 2019 demonstration in Moscow of the launchers and missile canisters for the 9M729 and the 9M728, virtually confirmed the R-500/9M728 was an additional violation of the INF Treaty. The Russians said that the 9M729 was an improved version of the 9M728.[83] The 9M729 canister was 8 meters long and the 9M728 canister was only slightly shorter.[84] Thus, the Russian claims that these missiles have a range of under 500-km is an insult to our intelligence. According to Deputy Under Secretary of Defense David Trachtenberg, Russia has tested this ground-based system well into the ranges covered by the INF Treaty, produced it, and fielded it.[85] If the 9M729 can fly well into ranges covered by the INF Treaty, it is virtually certain that the 9M728 can fly into the INF Treaty prohibited range arena, particularly when one takes into account that the INF accountable range (to fuel exhaustion) would be significantly longer than any likely operational test of the missile. The Russian Bastion is a deployed supersonic ground-launched coastal defense anti-ship and land-attack cruise missile system using the Oniks (3M55) missile. In July 2016, Interfax, Russias main unofficial news agency, reported, The Bastion coastal defense [cruise missile] system has an operational range of 600 kilometers and can be used against surface ships of varying class and type[86] The 2017 National Air and Space Committee Intelligence report stated that the 3M55 missile (also called the P-800 Oniks) was possibly nuclear.[87] It is not clear what the fourth missile mentioned by Latvias Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics is. It might be a legacy Soviet missile or a version of the Iskander-M. The recently announced Russian ground-launched hypersonic missile programs that are supposed to be operational by 2020 are not a response to U.S. suspension and withdrawal from the INF Treaty as Russia contends. These are clearly programs that have been going on for many, many years. Most appear to be part of the program that President Putin announced in his infamous March 1, 2018, Duma address, about six months before the announcement of the U.S. intent to respond to the Russian INF Treaty violations.[88] The rest appear to be covert programs that would have violated the INF Treaty but that are now being made public, so they can be used as threats. Similarly, the announced Russian program for a ground-launched version of the Kalibr, also supposed to be deployed by 2020,[89] is apparently an old program. Reports of a ground-launched version of the Kalibr/Club missiles go back to 2012.[90] The suggestion that arms control brings transparency is just opposite of reality involving Russia. Conclusion This is not a pretty picture. We have been sleepwalking for the last 25 years and most of that time we were in denial concerning a Russian nuclear threat. We are now beginning to reverse this but much remains to be done. Putin is dangerous. Indeed, Kremlin spokesman Peskov has stated, I can only say that as a normal man, he [Putin], certainly, can express his negative attitude towards this or that person or process. And so that it makes the blood run cold.[91] Even the 2018 Nuclear Posture Review has not done enough in recommending programs to correct the enormous disparity that now exists in non-strategic nuclear weapons. Furthermore, if the American left succeeds in aborting the Triad modernization and sustainment programs, the result could lead to Putins first use of nuclear weapons. Dr. Mark B. Schneider is a Senior Analyst with the National Institute for Public Policy. Before his retirement from the Department of Defense Senior Executive Service, Dr. Schneider served in a number of senior positions within the Office of Secretary of Defense for Policy including Principal Director for Forces Policy, Principal Director for Strategic Defense, Space and Verification Policy, Director for Strategic Arms Control Policy and Representative of the Secretary of Defense to the Nuclear Arms Control Implementation Commissions. He also served in the senior Foreign Service as a Member of the State Department Policy Planning Staff. Notes: [1] Department of Defense, Nuclear Posture Review, (Washington D.C., US, Department of Defense, February 2018), I, available at https://media.defense.gov/2018/Feb/02/ 2001872886/-1/ -1/1/2018-NUCLEAR-POSTUREREVIEW-FINAL-REPORT.PDF. [2] Pavel Felgenhauer, Kremlin Learning to Navigate Washingtons New Unpredictability, Eurasia Daily Monitor Vol. 14. No. 3 (January 19, 2017), available at https://jamestown.org/program/kremlin-learning-navigate-washingtons-new-unpredictability/. [3] Ibid., p. 9. [4] Bill Gertz, "Navy cybersecurity faulted, The Washington Free Beacon, April 1, 2019, available at https://m. washingtontimes.com/news/2019/apr/3/navy-cybersecurity-faulted/. [5] Mark B. Schneider, Russian Nuclear Weapons Policy, Real Clear Defense, April 28, 2017, available at http:// www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2017/04/28/russiannuclearweaponspolicy 11261.html. [6] Presidential Address to the Federal Assembly, Kremlin,ru, March 1, 2018, http://en.kremlin.ru/events/President/news/ 56957. [7] Ibid. [8] Nikolai Litovkin, What major weapons Russian military will get in 2018, Russia Beyond the Headlines, January 19, 2018, available at https://www.rbth.com/science-and-tech/327726-new-russian-weapons.: Sarmat ICBM: 8 Megatons at Hypersonic Speeds, Arriving 2 Years Ahead of Schedule, Sputnik News, January 19, 2018, available at https://sputniknews.com/military/201609071045062797-sarmat-ahead-of-schedule-analysis/. [9] Pavel Felgenhauer, Bomb Makers Trade Union, The Moscow Times, March 14, 2002, available at http://www.themoscowtimes.com/opinion/article/bomb-makers-trade-union/247805 html. [10] Lynn Berry and Vladimir Isachenkov, Kremlin-controlled TV airs secret plans for nuclear weapon, Associated Press, November 12, 2015, available at http://bigstory.ap.org/article aaa75e4bb6e84d52948b9e6d8275c71d/kremlin -controlled-tv-airs-secret-plans-nuclear-weapon.: Status-6 and Nuclear Strategy Beyond the Tripod, geopolicraticus.wordpress.com, November 12, 2015, available at http://geopolicraticus.wordpress.com/2015/ 11/12/status-6-and-nuclear-strategy-beyond-the-tripod/#comments.; Patrick Know, Russian NUCLEAR war plan leaked: News report fails to blur out top secret document, London Daily Star, November 11, 2015, available at https://dialog.proquest.com/professional/docview/1900529954/fulltext/169A7350B1C519E58EB/1?accountid=155509&t:ac=169A7350B1C519E58EB/1&t:cp=maintain/resultcitationblocksbrief&t:zoneid=transactionalZone_16a41b3f92b..; Lynn Berry, Russian TV leaks file on top-secret new nuke, Dublin Independent, November 13, 2015, available at https://dialog.proquest.com/professional/docview/1732748463/fulltext/169A7365A8C5865E0E 8/1?accountid=155509&t:ac=169A7365A8C5865E0E8/1&t:cp=maintain/resultcitationblocksbrief&t:zoneid=transactionalZone_16a41b53898. [11] Dr. John Harvey, then-Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Defense Program during the Obama administrations 2010 Nuclear Posture Review, said that the review concluded that the U.S. needed about 1850 real deployed [strategic nuclear] warheads.[11] According to Ambassador Ron Lehman (former Assistant Secretary of Defense, Chief START Treaty negotiator and Director of the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency), the average yield of U.S. nuclear warheads in 1994 was .216 megaton. Since then, the average yield certainly has not increased since no new weapons have been added to the U.S. nuclear arsenal. A force of 1,850 deployed nuclear warheads with an average of .216 megaton yield would total slightly less than 400 megatons, which is about what one Russian submarine carrying Status-6 could deliver to the U.S. Statement of Dr. John R. Harvey Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Defense Programs Fiscal Year 2014 Budget Request for Atomic Energy Defense Activities and Nuclear Forces Programs Before the Strategic Forces Subcommittee Committee on Armed Services U.S. House of Representatives May 9, 2013, p.1, available at http://docs.house.gov/meetings/AS/AS29/20130509/100558/ HHRG-113-AS29-Wstate-HarveyJ-20130509.pdf.: Dr. Ronald Lehman, NUCLEAR WEAPON TRENDS: SOME PERSPECTIVES ON NUMBERS TOP TO BOTTOM, LLNL, February 5, 2016, p. 6. [12] Russian Navy to get Poseidon nuclear underwater drones by 2027 source, TASS, May 12, 2018, available at http://tass.com/defense/1003964. [13] Russian commander comment on Putins weapons announcement, BBC Monitoring of the Former Soviet Union, May 5, 2018, available at https://dialog.proquest.com/professional/docview/2010308306?accountid=155509. [14] The Su-34 strike fighter Upgrading a Hellduck: Russias Su-34 to Get State of-the-Art Overhaul, Sputnik News, December 10, 2016, available at https://sputniknews.com/russia/20161210104840 2800-russia-su-34-strike fighter-modernization/.: Piotor Butowski, Daggers, Stones and Foxbats, Air International, April 2018, pp. 12-13. [15] Russia to deploy new Kinzhal missile on Tu-22M3 bomber, BBC Monitoring Former Soviet Union, July 8, 2018, available at https://dialog.proquest.com/professional/professionalnewsstand/docview/ 2065914513/fulltext/167F6F8818 973E056B4/1?accountid=155509&site=professionalnewsstand &t:ac=167F6F8818973E056B4/1&t:cp=maintain/resultcitationblocksbrief&t:zoneid=transactionalZone_1689177 4de0.: Russias Tu-22M3M Bomber to Be Able to Carry Up to 4 Kinzhal Missiles Source, Sputnik News, July 2, 2018, https://sputniknews.com/science/201807021065959682-russia-bombers-missiles/. [16] Su-57 jets will be equipped with hypersonic missiles similar to Kinzhal source, TASS, December 6, 2018, http://tass.com/defense/1034559. [17] Russia to use SS-19 ICBMs as carriers for Avangard hypersonic glide vehicles source, TASS, March 20, 2017, available at http://tass.com/defense/995167. [18] Russia to deliver Avangard system to Armed Forces in 2019 - Putin (Part 2) Interfax, June 7, 2018, available at https://dialog.proquest.com/professional/docview/2051567000?accountid=155509. [19] Pavel Podvig, Avangard system is tested, said to be fully ready for deployment, Russia Forces.org, December 24, 2018, available at http://russianforces.org/blog/2018/12/avangard_system_is_tested_said.shtml. [20] Presidential Address to Federal Assembly, Kremlin.ru, February 2019, available at http://en.kremlin.ru/events/ president/ news/59863. [21] John A. Tirpak, The Great Hypersonic Race, Air Force Magazine, August 2018, http://www.airforcemag.com/ MagazineArchive/Pages/2018/August%202018/The-Great-Hypersonic-Race.aspx. [22] Presidential Address to the Federal Assembly, March 1, 2018, op. cit.: Litovkin, What major weapons Russian military will get in 2018, op. cit.: Sarmat ICBM: 8 Megatons at Hypersonic Speeds, Arriving 2 Years Ahead of Schedule, op. cit.; Russia to use SS-19 ICBMs as carriers for Avangard hypersonic glide vehicles source, op. cit.: Russia to use SS-19 ICBMs as carriers for Avangard hypersonic glide vehicles source, op. cit. [22] Felgenhauer, Bomb Makers Trade Union, op. cit. [23] Russias new strategic weapons dont fall under limits of New START Treaty, says envoy, TASS, April 15, 2019, available at http://tass.com/defense/1053781. [24] Patrick Tucker, New New START a Nonstarter: Russian Ambassador, Defense One.com, March 12, 2019, available at https://www.defenseone.com/politics/2019/03/new-new-start-nonstarter-russian-ambassador /155474/?utmsource = Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ebb-3-13&utm_term=Editorial%20-%20Early%20Bird%20Brief. [25] Russias Armed Forces Surpass All World Armies in Modern Weapons, Russian Federation Defense Ministry, December 24, 2018, available at http://eng.mil.ru/en/newspage/country/more.htm?id=12209498 @egNews. [26] Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Federation attends extended session of the Russian Defence Ministry board session, Russian Federation Defense Ministry, December 18, 2018, available at http://eng.mil .ru/en/news_page/country/more.htm?id=12208613@egNews.: Meeting with Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, Kremlin.ru, December 8, 2015, available at http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/50892. [27] New START Treaty Aggregate Numbers of Strategic Offensive Arms, (Washington D.C.: U.S. Department of State, September 1, 2018), available at https://www.state.gov/t/avc/newstart/286466.htm. [28] Russia launches production of upgraded Tu-160 strategic bombers, TASS, December 20, 2018, available at http: //tass.com/defense/1037133. [29] Nuclear Posture Review, op. cit., pp. I. [30] New START: Potemkin Village Verification, (Washington D.C.: The Heritage Foundation, June 24, 2010), available at http://www.heritage.org/research/reports/2010/06/new-start-potemkin -villageverification?query=New+ START:+Potemkin+Village+Verification. [31] Senator Christopher Bond, The New START Treaty, The Congressional Record, November 18, 2010, available at http://www.thomas.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?r111:34:./temp/~r111MwN34p. [32] U.S. to seek ways of leveling capacities of Russian strategic nuclear forces - Gen. Karakayev, Interfax, December 17, 2018, available at https://dialog.proquest.com/professional/docview/2157713172?Accounted=1. [33] Statement by Mr. Dmitry Polyanskiy, First Deputy Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the UN, during General Debate at the UN Disarmament Commission 2018, Permanent Mission of the Russian Federation to the United Nations, April 2, 2018, available at http://russiaun.ru/en/news/desarm0204. [34] FACTBOX Strategic Missile Forces Day in Russia, Sputnik, December 17, 2018, available at https://dialog .proquest.com/professional/docview/2157472585?accountid=155509. [35] Hans M. Kristensen & Robert S. Norris, Russian nuclear forces, 2018, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, April 30, 2018, p. 186, available at https://thebulletin.org/2018/05/russian-nuclear-forces-2018/. [36] New START, (Washington D.C.: U.S. Department of State, no date), available at https://www.state.gov/t/avc/ newstart/index.htm. [37] Some 400 ICBMs are on combat duty in Russia - RVSN commander, Interfax, December 16, 2014, available at . http://dialog.proquest.com/professional/docview/1636603843?accountid=155509. [38] Russias RVSN has some 400 ICBMs on duty commander, Interfax, December 15, 2016, avaiable at https://dialog.proquest.com/professional/docview/1849162771/fulltext/169A732DCF2743015E1/1?accountid=155509&t:ac=169A732DCF2743015E1/1&t:cp=maintain/resultcitationblocksbrief&t:zoneid=transactionalZone_16a41b1af10.: Russian Strategic Missile Troops have about 400 ICBM launchers commander, BBC Monitoring of the Former Soviet Union, December 17, 2013, available at http://dialog.proquest. com/professional/docview/14685975 32?accountid=155509. [39] Vladimir Kudelev, The Super-Accurate Skorost and the Undetectable Kuryer. The Forgotten Unique Developments of Aleksandr Nadiradze, Moscow Voyenno-Promyshlennyy Kuryer Online, October 12, 2011. (Translation by World News Connection.) [40] Bill Gertz, Inside the Ring - SMITH OPPOSES SMALL NUKES, The Washington Times, April 17, 2019, available at https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/apr/17/china-militarizing-deep-sea/. [41] Russia to upgrade Tu-22M3 strategic bombers in 2018, TASS, November 17, 2108, available at http://tass.com/defense/976261.: Vladimir Karnozov, Upgraded 'Backfire' Rolled Out at Kazan, AINonline, August 17, 2018, available at https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation.: Russias White Swan Strategic Bomber Just Got a 1,000 km+ Range Upgrade, Sputnik News, March 21, 2018, available at https://sputniknews.com/military/201803211 062773529-tu160-range-upgrade/. [42] Alexander Mladenov, New Flankers, upgraded Flankers and a Backfires Maidan flight, Air International, February 2019, p. 32. [43] Russias upgraded strategic bomber to join Aerospace Force in October, TASS, May 15, 2018, available at http ://tass.com/defense/1004329. [44] Nuclear Posture Review, op. cit., p. 8.: Tu-22M3 launching a Kh-32 cruise missile, YouTube, June 27, 2013, available at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtsWTuZQhvQ.: David Cenciotti, New image of a Russian Tu-22M Backfire with cruise missile emerges, The Aviationist.com, December 16, 2013, available at http://the aviationist.com/2013/ 12/16/tu-22-cruise-missiles/. [45] Winged Snipers: Best of the Best of Russias Ballistic and Cruise Missiles, Sputnik News, December 23, 2017, available at https://sputniknews.com/military/201712231060272064-russian-air-launched-ballistic-cruise-missiles/. [46] Nikolai Litovkin, New Russian cruise missiles to hit targets from the stratosphere, Russia Beyond the Headlines, August 30, 2016, available at https://www.rbth.com/defence/2016/08/30/new-russian-cruise-missiles-to-hit-targets-from-the-stratosphere_625441. [47] Russia: First Tu-22M3M bomber due 2018, 30 to be upgraded, BBC Monitoring Former Soviet Union, May 21, 2017, available at https://dialog.proquest.com/professional/docview/1900529954/fulltext/169A7211AB8429A B902/1?accountid=155509&t:ac=169A7211AB8429AB902/1&t:cp=maintain/resultcitationblocksbrief&t:zoneid=transactionalZone_16a419fe5cb. [48] Meeting with Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, Kremlin.ru, December 8, 2015, available at http://en.kremlin. ru/events/president/news/50892: In the course of the last 24 hours, aircraft of the Russian Aerospace Forces have performed 82combat sorties engaging 204 terrorist objects in Syria, Defense Ministry of the Russian Federation, December 9, 2015, available at http://eng.mil.ru/en/news_page/country/more.htm?id=12071355 @egNews.; "Strategic Tu-95MS bombers destroyed the ISIS militants' command post and storages in Syria with a missile attack, Defense Ministry of the Russian Federation," August 5, 2017, available at http://eng.mil.ru/en/newspage/country/more.htm?id=12132186@egNews. [49] Winged Snipers: Best of the Best of Russias Ballistic and Cruise Missiles, op. cit. [50] STATEMENT OF GENERAL PAUL SELVA, USAF VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF BEFORE THE 115TH CONGRESS HOUSE ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE MILITARY ASSESSMENT OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS REQUIREMENTS 8 MARCH 2017, p. 4, available at http://docs.house.gov/meetings/ AS/AS00/20170308/105640/HHRG-115-AS00-Wstate-SelvaUSAFP-20170308.pdf. [51] Aleksey Arbatov, Tactical Nuclear Weapons: Problems and Solutions: Strategic Offensive Weapon Reductions Could Extend to Nonstrategic Munitions, Voyenno-Promyshlenny Nezavisimoye Online, May 20, 2011. (Translated by World News Connection).: Aleksey Arbatov, Concepts: Nonstrategic Nuclear Weapons; Dilemmas and Approaches; The Path to a Nuclear-Free World Promises To Be Long, Moscow Nezavisimoye Voyennoye Obozreniye Online, May 20, 2011. (Translated by World News Connection.); In a Broad Context, Krasnaya Zvezda Online, April 29, 2011. (Translated by World News Connection.) [52] Nuclear Posture Review, op. cit., p. 53. [53] Obama Advisor Gary Samore, The Ball is Very Much in Tehran's Court,'" Radio Free Europe, April 14, 2011, available at http://www.rferl.org/content/interview samore_russia_iran_us_policy/3557326.html. [54] Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney, General Colin Powell, Chairman JCS, Pete Wilson, ASD (Public Affairs) Saturday 28, 199110:00am, pp. 2-3. [55] Dr. Stephen Blank, Putins Asymmetric Strategy: Nuclear and New-Type Weapons in Russian Defense Policy, in Glen E. Howard and Mathew Czekaj, editors, Russias Military Strategy and Doctrine, (Washington D.C.: The Jamestown Foundation, 2019), p. 286, available at https://jamestown.org/product/russias-military-strategy-and-doctrine/. [56] Russia to broaden nuclear strike options, Russia Today, October 14, 2009, available at http://rt.com/news/russia-broaden-nuclear-strike/. [57] Secretary Generals Annual Report: The Alliance is Stepping Up, (Brussels: NATO, March 15, 2018), available at https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/news152805.htm?selectedLocale=en. [58] David Nowak, Russia reserves right to conduct preemptive nuclear strike: Say US, NATO pose threat of aggression, When a wave of popular anger driven by a desire for change sweeps away much of a regions political establishment, it usually provokes hope and fear in equal measure. This is the case right now in Latin America. Economic distress and public revolt against corruption and excess have taken down ruling parties in the regions biggest economies. The candidates who promised the most change have been given the chance to deliver it. The verdict on hope versus fear will be in by the end of 2019, and the coming months are crucial. The wave started with the 2015 election of Mauricio Macri in Argentina and culminated late last year with the landslide victory of hard-right President Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil. Outsiders, disruptors and reformers from across the political spectrum have taken power in all the major economies of the region; it has been a remarkable shift. The public rejection of the established order at the ballot box was harsh, and justice for the corrupt has been uncharacteristically swift. Many defeated establishment figures, including former presidents and sitting officials, have landed in courtrooms and jail cells. The mandate for change was big, and the publics faith was placed in leaders with little to no apparent experience in governing on such a scale, or with carrying the burden of high expectations. Argentina and Brazil illustrate the hope and the perils of the phenomenon. Macri came into power in Argentina as the head of a new coalition aptly named Lets Change, after 11 years of leftist rule by the husband-and-wife team of Nestor and Cristina Kirchner, who governed in alternating terms. Mrs. Kirchner is now in a Buenos Aires courtroom facing trial for a corruption scheme that allegedly diverted and laundered millions of dollars in public funds for private gain. She left behind a moribund economy that Macri had to revive, but the new president chose a gradual approach, taking on debt instead of imposing a program of economic shock therapy that might have burned up his political capital. Macris choice left Argentina more exposed to external shocks, which hit hard and forced him to seek a bailout from the International Monetary Fund. He now faces a steep climb to re-election in October, and Cristina Kirchner will be back on the ticket running against him despite her economic legacy and legal woes. His peers in the region can see in Macri the dangers of walking too softly, and markets are worried about the implications of a return of the old regime. Brazil, on the other hand, elected someone known for excessive boldness in Bolsonaro. Before he took on the reform mantle, Bolsonaro was best known for his outrageous statements and controversial views on cultural issues. Like Macri, he inherited a broken economy. Now Bolsonaro has to do what Macri did not -- get his Congress to pass fiscal adjustments big enough to stave off financial calamity in the medium term. This is the defining test of his presidency. Should he win approval of a first crucial measure, aimed at reforming pensions, it could open the door to other reforms and a sustained economic rebound. If he fails, the markets will begin to panic, given the fiscal hole Brazil now faces. Only days ago, as the pensions measure was struggling to advance, Bolsonaro said he was moved out of a sense of frustration to circulate a text hed read on social media. Its message was that it doesnt appear possible to govern Brazil without playing the old corrupt game that Bolsonaro refuses to play. Like with Macri, and no matter how unloved Bolsonaro might be personally, the consequences of failure are too distressing to imagine. The broader lesson is that change cannot be a perpetual high-wire act for untested leaders, and lasting change doesnt spring up from devastated ground overnight. The collapse of the political establishment also destroyed the credibility of Latin Americas progressive movements, and their corruption scandals crushed public faith in their ideas even though some of their policies really did lift many out of poverty. Whether or not the mostly conservative reformers succeed or fail in their efforts this year, the regions progressives have a duty to repair the publics broken confidence in them and regain a seat at the policy table. They must contribute ideas, solutions, and effective checks and balances. Their contributions are needed for the sake of democracy in the region, not to mention prosperity. That will mean tough choices and generational renewal. It will mean renouncing old icons who let them and their countrymen down, and turning away from their polarizing methods for gaining and holding power. The people of the region are watching closely as events unfold in Argentina and Brazil, given the stakes and the potential consequences. Behind all the political drama, there remains the honest wish of the peoples of Latin America who voted in good faith for things to change for the better. Well soon see whether they will get their wish. Harold Ford Jr. is a former U.S. representative from Tennessee. Learn more about him at www.haroldfordjr.com. 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 English French Press contact: Florence Lievre Tel.: +33 1 47 54 50 71 Email: florence.lievre@capgemini.com Intelligent Automation is boosting operational efficiency, topline growth and customer engagement for global energy and utility companies The sector must focus on quick wins in core functions such as forecasting, yield optimization and complaints management Paris, May 28, 2019 The global energy and utilities sector is making increasing use of intelligent automation, including a significant rise in the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) since 2017, but executives are underestimating its full potential with large scale projects taking a back seat, according to new research from the Capgemini Research Institute . The Intelligent Automation in Energy and Utilities: The next digital wave study found that nearly half of respondents have under-estimated the benefits they derived from their intelligent automation initiatives, while only 18% of organizations are deploying quick-win use cases, and just 15% of those surveyed said their company is deploying multiple intelligent automation use cases at scale. The report highlights that the traditional energy and utilities business model is under pressure worldwide, with technological changes and increased competition making their presence felt. It cites that automation and AI will also be instrumental in helping these companies to meet climate change goals and the growing demand for clean, cheap, reliable energy. The report also shows significant regional and sub-sector disparities in the scaling of automation: In the United States, 23% of energy and utility companies have deployed intelligent automation initiatives widely at scale, as have 16% in both France and India, compared to just 8% in the UK. Meanwhile, a fifth (20%) of oil and gas executives reported multiple use cases at scale, compared to just 6% from water companies. While the sector is deriving significant value from intelligent automation compared to other industries, scaling, seizing quick-wins and overcoming the critical digital skills gap will be key to bringing it into the mainstream. Key findings of the study, which surveyed 529 leaders at manager level or above in energy and utility companies, include: Intelligent automation is delivering significant benefits to the sector: The report finds that the sector is already seeing significant value from automation, in terms of boosting operations, topline growth and engaging customers, compared to other industries. A consistently higher percentage of executives in the energy and utilities sector said theyd achieved benefits from their intelligent automation initiatives compared to the response for all sectors. Example areas of benefit included: 40% of executives said they had seen an increase in operations quality (30% for all sectors) 45% had seen an increase in inbound customer leads (27% for all sectors) 81% had improved the customer experience through faster responses (60% for all sectors) 78% saw a reduction in the number of processes relating to queries and purchases (61% for all sectors) 32% had seen an increase in staff productivity (26% for all sectors) In terms of the benefits, 47% have underestimated the cost savings, 48% the customer satisfaction, and 45% the impact on net and incremental revenue. Abhijeet Bhandare, Chief Automation Officer at GE Power, explains. We have a very clear filtering criteria defined for automation use cases. We have close to 200 automation ideas in the pipeline, and on average about 50% to 60% of them will be rejected. It is important to focus your attention on the remaining 50%, as they will give you the most value. And you must have the right criteria whether it is value, efficiencies, cost savings or the opportunity cost. Organizations should focus on quality over quantity of use cases. 80% of organizations are missing out on quick wins for critical use cases: In core functions, only 18% of energy and utility organizations are deploying quick-win use cases (those that are low on delivery complexity but high in terms of benefits achieved such as forecasting, energy trading, yield optimization, grid behavior interfaces and complaints management). Instead, just over a third of the energy and utility organizations (38%) are focusing their efforts on use cases that are easy to implement but which have a low-benefit upside. Business related challenges and skills gap hamper deployment at scale: While overall adoption of AI has matured in the sector, with the majority (52%) of respondents having deployed a number of use cases (compared to 28% just deploying pilots two years ago), only a small minority (15%) of executives said their company was deploying multiple intelligent automation use cases at scale. Business-related challenges were cited by respondents as barriers to scaling including a lack of co-ordination across different business units (37%), a lack of leadership commitment (35%), and an organizational reticence to experimenting with technology that could replace human workers (34%). Many executives also pointed to a shortage in skills as a challenge. A majority (55%) cited a lack of talent skilled in automation technologies, with 47% identifying limited efforts to reskill employees, 42% the difficulty of retaining employees with the right skills, and 41% employee resistance to learning new skills. Philippe Vie, Global Head of Energy & Utilities at Capgemini, comments, The energy and utilities sector is already seeing the difference that intelligent automation can make in improving business efficiency, customer satisfaction, and revenue. Executives are quite rightly making the deployment of automation one of their top priorities. Now the focus must shift to the factors that will enable the scaling of multiple use cases including an investment in specialist talent, more integrated co-ordination between business units, and a stronger commitment from leadership. Having tasted the benefits of automation, energy and utility companies must now redouble their investment to reap the full rewards. Research Methodology The Capgemini Research Institute conducted a primary survey of 529 business leaders at the manager lever or above in energy and utility organizations experimenting with or implementing automation. Respondents were based in seven countries the United States, Germany, India, United Kingdom, France, Netherlands and Sweden and across five sub-sectors: electricity utilities, oil and gas, energy services, water utilities, and electricity and gas utilities. The report can be downloaded here For a deep dive into the intelligent automation landscape across sectors: Reshaping the future: Unlocking automation's untapped value , a 2018 global research study from Capgemini Research Institute For a comprehensive view of the Energy and Utilities market trends, see World Energy Markets Observatory 2018 About Capgemini A global leader in consulting, technology services and digital transformation, Capgemini is at the forefront of innovation to address the entire breadth of clients opportunities in the evolving world of cloud, digital and platforms. Building on its strong 50-year heritage and deep industry-specific expertise, Capgemini enables organizations to realize their business ambitions through an array of services from strategy to operations. Capgemini is driven by the conviction that the business value of technology comes from and through people. It is a multicultural company of over 200,000 team members in more than 40 countries. The Group reported 2018 global revenues of EUR 13.2 billion. Visit us at www.capgemini.com . People matter, results count. About the Capgemini Research Institute The Capgemini Research Institute is Capgeminis in-house research center. The Institute publishes research on the impact of digital technologies on large traditional businesses. The team draws on the worldwide network of Capgemini experts and works closely with academic and technology partners. The Institute has dedicated research centers in India, the United Kingdom and the United States. It was recently ranked #1 in the world for the quality of its research by independent analysts. Visit us at https://www.capgemini.com/researchinstitute/ Attachment English Danish Company announcement no. 8 Vejle May 28th, 2019 Waturu enters into an agreement with a internationally recognized company within fish farming. The intention is to eliminate the risk of mortality from fish as a result of external bacteria or algae. Tons of fish die as a result of the influence of algae or bacteria of various kinds. Waturu has developed a new type of sustainable solution for the treatment of process water for eg. fish farming that, when using electrodes in a water flow, kills bacteria and algae and supplies antioxidants to the water. So far, the usual solution has been to medicate the fish against diseases such as Flavobacterium psychrophilum, use of formalin and purification of the water by using e.g. UV lighting. Unfortunately, there is an increase in mortality among the fish, which may be due to resistance to current medications as well as sporadically increased incidences of algae and bacteria due to the weather. The agreement means that Waturu will set up test facilities during the month of June and that in the subsequent 6 - 8 weeks, documentation will be recorded on improvement of the survival rate and faster growth. "The climate-friendly technology Waturu has developed - we designate as a platform technology. There is in many different industries the need for treatment of water whether it be heating, cleaning or a combination. We call it our OEM business area and with the agreement we prove that it is possible to execute and expand the business. When the results are available later in the year, we will assess the impact on the future results ". Says CFO at Waturu Holding A / S, Michael Nrgaard. The Scandinavian countries are at the forefront of fish farming based on the type RAS - Recirculating Aquaculture Systems, and have a total of more than approx. 700 plants. There are thousands of plants worldwide and in the year 2030 it is expected that up to 40% of the global fish market will be delivered from RAS plants. The plant that participates in the test produces approx. 750 tons of trout. The current mortality among the fish is approx. 40%. About the company: Waturu Holding A/S is a Greentech company that offers an innovative water technology. The technology, instantly delivers hot water in a sustainable and responsible manner. The water and energy consumption is lowered by respectively 75% and 94% compared to a district heating solution with circulation. With the savings, a significant CO2 reduction follows. Integration of the company's technology into external products and the treatment of process and waste water are also business areas of focus. The company initiates automated production in Denmark in 2019, has established subsidiaries and has a patent and patent applications in process. More information: CEO Toke Reedtz, tel: +45 5188 1262, e-mail: toke@waturu.com CFO Michael Nrgaard, tel: +45 2720 6214, e-mail: mn@waturu.com Waturu Holding A/S Sjllandsgade 32 7100 Vejle Denmark www.waturu.com Certified Adviser: Vastra Hammen Corporate Finance AB Per Lonn, tel. +46 40 200 255 Jungmansgatan 12 211 11 Malmo Sweden www.vhcorp.se Porterville, CA (93257) Today Occasional rain. High 49F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.. Tonight Light rain early. Then remaining cloudy. Low near 40F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%. More than 450 seek refuge in shelters in multiple states WASHINGTON, D.C., MAY 28, 2019 The American Red Cross is responding across multiple states in the Midwest where tornadoes and flooding continue their relentless assault on the region. More than 450 people spent Monday night in 25 Red Cross and community shelters in the area. The Red Cross has deployed more than 650 trained disaster workers to assist people impacted by these storms. In the Dayton, Ohio area where a powerful tornado touched down Monday night, the Red Cross has opened several shelters where people impacted by the devastating storm can find food and shelter. In Oklahoma, the entire state is under a state of emergency. The Arkansas River is above flood stage and voluntary evacuations have been ordered in the Tulsa area. The Red Cross has nine shelters open where more than 125 people spent Monday night. The Red Cross also has shelters open in Missouri, Arkansas and Kansas due to the flooding in those states. The National Weather Service (NWS) reports there were as many as 110 tornadoes over the three-day Memorial Day holiday weekend, including 60 reports of tornadoes on Monday alone in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Indiana, Colorado, Nebraska and the large twister which touched down in Ohio. The severe weather threat is not over. The National Weather Service reports severe weather will continue in the Midwest today with another storm system moving through Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware that could bring heavy rain, strong winds and hail. A MAN AND HIS PETS When a powerful tornado blew through Jefferson, Missouri last week, Jerome Ruff was left with the clothes on his back and his dogs, Chewy and Taz. He was worried that his pets would have nowhere to go. But through a partnership with the Humane Society of Missouri, a mobile kennel was set up outside a Red Cross shelter where Ruffs pets found a clean place to stay. I wouldnt stay without my dogs. Whatever befell them would befall me as well, he said. Chad Gard, Humane Society staffer, said having the kennel nearby often makes the difference between someone staying in a shelter or striking out on their own, maybe sleeping in their car with their pets. It helps in the recovery of the people. They are relieved to know that their pets are nearby and will be well cared for, he said. Having Chewy and Taz nearby makes all the difference for Ruff as he figures out what to do next. At the shelter, there are Red Cross volunteers to help him and knowing his pets are safe makes it easier for him to focus on his recovery needs. It really brings tears to my eyes when I think of the help Im getting here at the shelter, especially providing a place for my dogs, he said. IF YOU NEED TO FIND A SHELTER Call 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767), visit redcross.org or download the free Red Cross Emergency App. You can also check with your local officials for information on where to find a shelter. The Emergency App also provides emergency alerts and information about what to do in case of emergencies such as tornadoes and flooding. Users can find it in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps. The Red Cross encourages people impacted to list yourself as safe and well on the free Safe and Well website. Family and friends may then search for the name of anyone they are trying to locate. The site is always available and available in Spanish. HOW YOU CAN HELP You can help people affected by disasters like storms and countless other crises by making a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Call, click, or text to give: visit redcross.org, call 1-800 RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. To donate by check or to a specific cause, please complete this donation form by printing and mailing to your local Red Cross chapter. CORPORATIONS HELP The generous donations from members of the Red Cross Annual Disaster Giving Program (ADGP) and the Disaster Responder Program enable the American Red Cross to prepare communities for disasters big and small, respond whenever and wherever disasters occur and help families during the recovery process. ADGP $1 Million members are: American Airlines; Anheuser-Busch Foundation; Anthem Foundation; Bank of America; Caterpillar Foundation; The Clorox Company; Costco Wholesale; Delta Air Lines; Enterprise Rent-A-Car Foundation; FedEx; The Home Depot Foundation; LDS Charities; Lilly Endowment Inc.; Lowe's Companies, Inc.; Mazda North American Operations; Microsoft Corp.; Nationwide Foundation; PepsiCo Foundation; State Farm; Verizon; VSP Global; Walmart and the Walmart Foundation; and The Walt Disney Company. ADGP $500,000 members are: 21st Century Fox; Altria Group; AmazonSmile; Aon; BMW of North America; Capital One; Cisco Foundation; Citi Foundation; Darden Foundation; Delta Dental Community Care Foundation; Discover; Energy Transfer/Sunoco Foundation; Ford Motor Company; General Motors; Grainger; Humble Bundle; IBM Corporation; International Paper; Johnson Controls Foundation; LHC Group; Merck Foundation; Mondelez International Foundation; New Balance Foundation; Nissan; Procter & Gamble Company; PwC Charitable Foundation; Sands Cares; Southwest Airlines; Target; TD Ameritrade; The TJX Companies, Inc.; United Airlines; UPS; The USAA Foundation; The Wawa Foundation; and Wells Fargo. Disaster Responder Program members are: 7-Eleven Cares Foundation; Adobe; AdvoCare International L.P.; Alliance Data; American Express; Assurant; AstraZeneca; AT&T; AvalonBay Communities, Inc.; Avangrid Foundation; AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company; The Ball Foundation; Barclays; CarMax; Choice Hotels International; Cox Enterprises; DICKS Sporting Goods; Duke Energy; Edison International; Entergy Corporation; GE Foundation; Harbor Freight Tools Foundation, LLC; Hewlett Packard Enterprise Foundation; HP Foundation; Ingersoll Rand Foundation; The J.M. Smucker Company; John Deere Foundation; The Kraft Heinz Company Foundation; Land OLakes, Inc.; Mastercard; Medtronic Foundation; Neiman Marcus Group; Northrop Grumman Corporation; Northwestern Mutual and the Northwestern Mutual Foundation; Old Dominion Freight Line; Prudential Financial; Rodan + Fields Prescription for Change Foundation; Ryder System, Inc.; SC Johnson; Security Finances Lending Hand Foundation; Southeastern Grocers Home of BI-LO Harveys Winn Dixie; The Starbucks Foundation; Tata Consultancy Services; Toyota; U-Haul International; United Technologies Corporation; U.S. Bank; and Visa. In a departure from the past, when IHCL adopted the organic route for entering markets like London and New York, this time around the expansion will be acquisition-led. Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL) will soon embark on an international expansion in the second phase of the five-year strategy, its managing director and chief executive officer (MD and CEO) Puneet Chhatwal crafted within 100 days of taking up the top job in November 2017. The 115-year-old hospitality arm of the Tata group is also working on a plan to unlock value in the high margins non-hotembers (club membership brand for the ultra high net worth individuals), Jiva (wellness brand), food and beverages (F&B), TAJsats (airline catering) and Ama Trails & Stays (homestay). In a departure from the past, when IHCL adopted the organic route for entering markets like London and New York, this time around the expansion will be acquisition-led. In the second half of Aspiration 2022, if we want to go international, we cant do it organically. We have to go for four to eight hotels, Chhatwal said. The company will prefer buying out a firm that has multiple assets in its fold as compared to buying just two to three hotels. Buying such a firm will not only be more viable financially but will also help IHCL give a better toehold in a new market. It will help build on the local capability, which is critical for overseas operations, particularly in non-English speaking countries, he added. Personally I feel, if the foundation is getting weak, you cant build a sky-scraper. "In 2002, IHCL was very strong and had cash to invest. We are on track to bringing back the confidence through consistent profitability, said Chhatwal. Even as IHCL remains sharply focused on India, the confidence to step up presence in markets outside India stems from the improved performance of the international business, which forms 15 per cent of IHCLs operational inventory. IHCLs consolidated total income rose to Rs 4,595.38 crore in FY19 against Rs 4,165.38 crore a year ago. Earlier this month, the Mumbai-headquartered firm stitched an agreement with GIC, Singapores sovereign wealth fund to create a Rs 4,000 crore platform that will acquire marquee assets in India and help IHCL monetise stake in wholly-owned assets, as part of the asset light strategy the company has been pursuing under Chhatwals leadership. At the end of the fiscal that ended in March, IHCL had 41 per cent of the total hotel properties in its fold on management contracts. If we are successful with GIC in India, we will go outside, and it could be a partner in future, said Chhatwal. Meanwhile, the owner of Taj, Vivanta, Ginger and Seleqtion brands plans to boost the adjacent segments within the hotels business that will start unfolding in a bigger way. For instance, over the next three months, IHCL plans to introduce three new concepts in the F&B segment. These include opening an Italian restaurant in partnership with an Italian firm and a Indian dining concept. Also, in a first ever for a five-star hotel chain, IHCL is looking to introduce live brewings of beer for its guests. All the three F&B concepts will be introduced in a phased manner at select Taj branded hotels which are best known for fine dining restraunts that specialises in Indian, oriental and continental cuisines. Food is big in India, said Chhatwal, pointing out that F&B in India accounts for as high as 47-50 per cent in companys top line. For TajSATS, the companys airline catering services in which Taj controls 51 per cent, IHCL plans to diversify into non-airline segments. The companys wellness business, with 62 spas under the Jiva brand, is also set to get a boost. With an annual membership of Rs 20 lakh, The Chambers boasts of over 2,000 ultra-high net worth individuals as its exclusive members. Plans are afoot to introduce The Chambers in Taj James Court in London and extend it to more cities in India. The companys homestay business under the Ama Trails & Stays brand will also see an expansion from the current 11 properties to 25 by this fiscal. When I look back, one of the biggest turning points in the 19 months that I have been with the company was retaining Taj Mahal Delhi (Mansingh). It gave the teams a lot of self-pride and self-esteem, Chhatwal said. Rashesh Shah, analyst at ICICI Securities, while hailing the move, said, The enhanced focus on the non-hotel segments and expansion in international business will help IHCL in driving up the margins. Photograph: Courtesy, Tata.com Without Googles Android operating system, Huawei may have to put off new launches. American internet major Google has banned Huawei from some of the Android mobile services, in a new twist to the continuing trade war between the US and China. Other US-based tech giants such as Intel and Qualcomm, too, have deserted Huawei globally, adding to the adverse impact on the India business of the Chinese telecom major. International reports suggest that suppliers from Europe may follow suit, a development that could hit Huawei even harder. Marketing its handsets under brands like Huawei and Honor, the Chinese firm had managed to grow its share in the highly competitive India market recently. With the latest developments globally linked to a perception of security threat, Huawei is looking at a bleak future in India and some other key markets, analysts pointed out. Without Googles Android operating system (OS), Huawei may have to put off new launches, market analysts and experts said. Android OS, that powers over 90 per cent of the smartphones in the country, has been the only operating system used by Huawei to date. From its flagship devices like Huawei P30 Pro and P9 to its top-selling mid-level smartphones like Honor 9N and 9i, each one is dependent on different versions of Android. Its tablets, too, are solely running on Android OS. Moreover, Googles virtual monopoly over the smartphone market (globally Android holds over 80 per cent of the market) and its vast software ecosystem would mean an unprecedented control over any hardware maker. The burn of dissociation with it could be catastrophic for any handset maker, said analysts. Without access to Android OS, it would be nearly impossible for Huawei to operate, said Navkendar Singh, research director, IDC India. While Huawei has been developing an in-house OS for quite some time, Singh said for any new OS to establish itself in the market takes years. In todays world, where an all-round OS ecosystem like Android exists, it takes at least two to four years to develop another OS that can stand before competition, he said. Huawei has made substantial contributions to the development and growth of Android around the world. "As one of Androids key global partners, we have worked closely with their open-source platform to develop an ecosystem that has benefited both users and the industry, the company said in an email statement. Googles latest move also means that not only its OS, but all its mobile apps like YouTube, Google Maps, Chrome, and Gmail, among other hundreds of apps, will be inaccessible to Huawei. The new order from Google, however, has spared its existing devices in the market, which would continue to operate. Assuring its customers, Huawei said, it will continue to provide security updates and after-sales services to all existing Huawei and Honor smartphone and tablet products, covering those that have been sold and that are still in stock globally. While it didnt specify its plans on launching the in-house OS, the company added it will continue to build a safe and sustainable software ecosystem, in order to provide the best experience for all users globally. In India, Huawei had moved up the pecking order in the January-March quarter to the seventh spot, with over 4.5 per cent share under its belt. IDC said Huawei, along with Xiaomi and Samsung, played a key role in the strong growth in Indias online sales channel for smartphones. The smartphone sales, through the e-commerce channel, grew 20 per cent year-on-year during January to March, to reach over 40 per cent of the total market. Globally, Huawei reached the second spot, replacing Apple. During the quarter, Huawei (19 per cent share) registered volume growth and stood just behind Samsung (23 per cent share). Apple was at the third spot, with 11.7 per cent market share, IDC reported. In 2018, it had shipped some 206-million handsets globally. Photograph: David Becker/Getty Images According to reports, Vodafone NZ had offered all its employees, other than call centre and retail staffers, voluntary severance package IT services firm Tech Mahindra has bagged an outsourcing contract of $ 100 million from Vodafone in New Zealand as a part of which the Mahindra Group-owned company will absorb the telecom majors 200 employees. Sources said Tech Mahindra was rebadging these employees of Vodafone, as the latter went through business realignment recently. In the second week of this month, Vodafones New Zealand unit was sold to infrastructure investment firm Infratil and Canada-headquartered Brookfield Asset Management for NZ$ 3.4 billion ($ 2.2 billion). According to reports, Vodafone NZ had offered all its employees, other than call centre and retail staffers, voluntary severance package. Tech Mahindra is learnt to be absorbing mostly the call centre employees for its business process management operations to serve Vodafone as well as its other clients in the region. The company has bagged this deal a few months ago in New Zealand. "As Vodafone is an existing client of Tech Mahindra, the rebadged employees will continue to serve the telecom major in other geographies, sources said. In response to a query by Business Standard, a spokesperson of Tech Mahindra said the firm continued to maintain strong relationship, with Vodafone is planning to set up a centre of excellence on digital technologies in New Zealand. In FY19, Tech Mahindra reported a total revenue of $4.97 billion, an increase of 5.8 per cent over the previous financial year in constant currency term. The communication business, which was the biggest vertical for Tech Mahindra, accounted for over 41 per cent of the companys revenue in the fiscal year. Projects in communication that have driven growth include optimisation initiatives, cloud migration and digital enablement and 5G labs and trials. "Last year, it was almost flat. This year, the communication vertical should lead over all verticals in terms of growth, Tech Ms MD & CEO CP Gurnani had said after the announcement of its earnings last week. According to analysts, revenue from the telecom-led business is likely to grow by 8-10 per cent. Recovery in the telecom vertical continued for the third consecutive quarter, based on ramp-up deal wins. "However, rising concerns over trade war, ban of Huawei products in the US and delay in 5G-related spend can derail the growth, said HDFC Securities in a report. IT services firms globally are betting big on 5G related investment from telecom majors to clinch bigger deals. According to a report by Mumbai-based brokerage firm JM Financial, the planned roll out of 5G technology by telecom companies offers at least $ 10 billion business opportunities for IT services companies over the next five years. Among the Indian IT firms, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys, HCL Technologies, Wipro and Tech Mahindra are seen as major contenders to clinch some of these deals. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters 'The anti-India biases of the Western elite can be attributed to the unease these privileged nations feel at the rise of Asian nations like India and China.' 'But what ought to shock all right-thinking Indians is that many of our own countrymen/women have joined this chorus,' says Colonel Anil A Athale (retd). IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi offers prayers at the Sai Baba temple in Shirdi. Photograph: Press Information Bureau One of the most absurd yet enduring images of the Lok Sabha election campaign was the coverage by the much vaunted BBC. While India was debating the electoral sweep as well as the earlier exit polls carried out by multiple agencies, what did the Beeb do? Well, it caught hold of -- hold your breath -- a woman 'Vedic astrologer' who was pontificating on her 'science' and predictions! Another favourite of Lutyens Delhi, The New York Times published biased articles on the election. Time magazine published an article by a person of half-Pakistani parentage describing Narendra Damodardas Modi as 'divider in chief'. In 'Agent Orange: Under Narendra Modi, India's Ruling Party Poses A Threat To Democracy', The Economist magazine cautioned that India is 'too combustible a place to be put into the hands of politicians who campaign with flamethrowers'. The nastiness of The Economist comes as no surprise to a historian. I recall the gleeful remark in the same weekly on January 24, 1966, in the wake of the crash of the Air India Boeing 707 Kanchenjunga (in perfect weather) on the slopes of Mont Blanc in which India's leading nuclear scientist Homi J Bhabha was killed: 'India's nuclear dream lies shattered on the slopes of Mont Blanc'. This crash had all the hallmark of an assassination carried out by an intelligence agency. The reasons for the crash have never been satisfactorily investigated/explained. The Western obsession with persisting with an image of India as land of snake-charmers has a long history. The Western media completely ignored the reality that the world's biggest electorate (900 million) has exercised its free choice in elections that were largely free from violence. Unlike in many 'developing' countries, the mandate was accepted by the opponents. But instead of highlighting the stupendous achievement, the Western media has only carping criticism to offer. As someone who has been a participant in various seminars in the West, this comes as no surprise. I recall a time in 1991 when in the USA, the image of a starving India was etched so firmly the fact that in the same year India gifted 2 million tonnes of wheat to Russia, where riots over bread had broken out, was totally unknown. Possibly even in the 21st century, the false image of a 'starving India' still persists. I must narrate a story told to me by a three-star general of the Indian Army. In the early 1990s he was invited to the US Pacific Command for a visit. He was at that time in charge of the army's College of Combat in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. At the end of the visit an American casually enquired about the general's travel plans. When told that he would fly into Delhi and then take a connecting domestic flight to Mhow, the American officer asked in wonderment, 'Do you have internal flights in India?' The Indian general (actually my late cousin), who had a great sense of humour, replied with a straight face, 'You know, actually I am worried about my parked elephant at the airport. I hope he has been fed properly in my absence.' The anti-India biases of the Western elite can be attributed to the unease these privileged nations feel at the rise of Asian nations like India and China. But what ought to shock all right-thinking Indians is that many of our own countrymen/women have joined this chorus. The 'comprador' elite of Delhi was shell-shocked by the election verdict. One does not have to be a psychoanalyst to see how flustered these worthies were watching the results. Post the results, many of them have vanished from their own channels. Even a century after the discrediting of Rudyard Kipling's theory of the 'white man's burden', the 'Gunga Dins' and 'Uncle Toms' of our country are seen clutching at straws in the Western media to justify their angst at Indian election results. One reason for this vehemence against India is the chaotic political conditions in major Western nations. Britain is in a mess over Brexit and the US is being ravaged by Donald J Trump on almost a daily basis. The French have been plagued by the 'Yellow Vest' protests for months. In India and Modi, the Western liberals see a reflection of their own fears! It is another matter that no two persons and ideologies could be more different than Trump and Modi. One comes from a privileged background and is unashamedly anti-poor while the other comes from a background where his mother was a domestic worker and he himself sold tea! Colonel Anil A Athale (retd) is a military historian. 'Nobody understands the deep causes of defeat and victory better than the defeated.' 'The defeated have been to all the battlefields.' 'They have looked into the eyes of their soldiers and those of the opponents,' says Aakar Patel. IMAGE: Rahul Gandhi, who is determined to step down as Congress president. Photograph: ANI The rest of us who are not in politics will likely never fully understand the meaning of a loss of this magnitude. The problems of defeat start with the personal. The loss of confidence in oneself and the shame of knowledge that others are looking at you differently are not things that most of us face on this scale. Our defeats and losses at work are mostly personal and if others know it is because we told them. For the opposition leaders, it is in the most public sphere. Then there is the matter of having to face the adversary who has trounced you. In war, there is death or surrender for the defeated. In politics, the defeat is already in the past. It is over and done with. It is the present that must be engaged with and you have to work with the person and people that till yesterday you were abusing and being abused by. But the argument is ended and you have been humiliated. What is to be done from now on? The defeated leaders will not be short of advice, particularly from the media on what went wrong and what they should now do. Some of this will be useful, but my guess is that most of it will not. At the television channel that I was a guest on, we were laughing over our designations: 'Varisht patrakar.' The fact is that 30 years or 40 years of experience in writing stuff is not a substitute for 35 minutes spent addressing a rally and the signals a crowd sends out. Nobody understands the deep causes of defeat and victory better than the defeated. The defeated have been to all the battlefields. They have looked into the eyes of their soldiers and those of the opponents. They have knowledge that is based on reality and lived experience. So with that understanding, and without wanting to give advice, let us see what we think they could do in terms of steps. When the Pakistani general Ayub Khan made himself the president of the country in the 1950s, he says he first wrote an Appreciation. This is apparently a military term which figures out the position that one finds oneself in. That would be a good first step in my opinion. It is fun to assess victories (students of military history spend many hours studying maps of Julius Caesar at Pharsalus or Alexander at the Jhelum). It is probably excruciating to assess a defeated position, and yet it must be done. State by state and candidate by candidate, there should be an assessment (I do not mean a judgement) of the present and where things stand. There should be, in this appreciation, an honest and unemotional estimation of the opponent. Perhaps the sharpest tool that a leader and a manager has is transparency. The saying is that sunlight is the best disinfectant. Openness would be encouraging to troops and supporters who are totally demoralised by a thrashing and the gloating of the victorious. It would bring the defeated together in sprit if they confront the reality of what they were defeated by and where they stand now. Then there is the issue of accountability. I do not mean blame. I think it would be easy for a leader to step down and go away, and perhaps that may be the right thing to do. But it should be part of a sequence in which there is first transparency. Stepping down without the critical steps required to start bringing the shattered side back together would just be like a tantrum and an act of ego. This moment requires selflessness. In my opinion, there is not much else that the Opposition could have done in this election. A missed tie-up here or there, and a wrong candidate in some or other constituency was not the reason this election ended in the way it did. A hammering of this magnitude cannot be avoided through tactics or even through strategy. There is something deeper that needs to be addressed. Everything that the Opposition was faulted for -- for example, not be aggressive, taking it easy, going off on vacations, not seeking alliances -- all of this was addressed. If defeat still came, it was not for want of awareness or effort. Higher forces were at play. Another thing that must be done is a gathering of allies and friends. The Opposition has sympathy from civil society, meaning those groups like non-governmental organisations, which fight some of the same issues that are in the domain of politics. Many of these are grassroots organisations which have been struggling for decades. They will be of some value in both the assessment and in the rebuild. The third last thing is that defeated parties, particularly older ones, should go back to their founding principles and examine how far or close the party is currently to them. There was something within that made the party attractive to Indians. How can that or a version of that be reintroduced? It is a good question that will require some reflection and wisdom. The second last thing is to keep up the spirit. Civil society and NGOs, which in our part of the world have tasted defeat far more than success, do this through song. Volunteerism comes from a sense of purpose but work should be fun and it should be energising. The last thing in this piece of non-advice is to begin a routine. A routine is a wonderful thing. Just getting up and getting to work at a particular time and organising oneself can work small miracles. A routine lays out the small steps that we must take, and it gives us the confidence that we are moving forward. Aakar Patel -- winner of the 2018 Prem Bhatia Award for Political Reporting -- is Executive Director, Amnesty International India. The views expressed here are his own. '"Pakistan will come and bite you doesn't work here".' IMAGE: Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam President M K Stalin greeted with a traditional aarti during his election campaign in the temple town of Thiruparankundram in Madurai district, Tamil Nadu. Photograph: DMK/Twitter In the Lok Sabha election, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led front won 38 of the 39 parliamentary seats in Tamil Nadu. The DMK won an impressive 23 seats itself. And in assembly by-elections to 22 seats held simultaneously, it won 13. Not enough to topple the state government, but enough to send shockwaves in the ruling All India Anna DMK-led front. How did the southern state, where the Bharatiya Janata Party hoped to make deep inroads, resist the saffron foray, and turn back the pro-Narendra Modi wave? "Our MPs are veterans of Delhi politics. They will be a beacon of hope for the entire country," DMK Spokesperson Saravanan Annadurai, below, tells Rediff.com's A Ganesh Nadar. How did your alliance demolish the AIADMK front? This is a massive victory, it is our biggest mandate after 2004. The full credit for this goes to M K Stalin, our president. His tireless campaigning and also his embracing of our allies worked in our favor. What factors led to the sweep? We started our work long ago. The gram sabha meetings that Stalin held all over the state helped him connect with the people. He also had regular review meetings with our party cadres who told him about the people's issues in their area. We appointed our people for specific work. Everyone was focused. How was the campaign planned? We are veterans in campaigning. Stalin always organised with an eye on the elections. He worked very hard and for very long. The gram sabha meetings started when the elections were not even in sight. (His son) Udayanidhi Stalin also campaigned. There was support for him too as he is already a popular film star. Basically, we seized the narrative long ago. What did the AIADMK/BJP do wrong in the state? Anti-incumbency against both the state and central governments went against them. The people of Tamil Nadu were upset with both. Moreover, Hindu pride doesn't work in Tamil Nadu. The people here are devout Hindus, but they don't bring it into politics. Here religion is for your personal life. Can the BJP hope to come up in Tamil Nadu like it did in Bengal? Here, it is not possible at all. Tamil Nadu's people will consider you only if you come with a credible ideology. 'Pakistan will come and bite you' doesn't work here. The same voters who helped you sweep the Lok Sabha polls did not do the same in the assembly bye-elections. Why? They spent a lot of money in the assembly elections, which helped them. But you must see that even there we won the majority of seats -- 13 out of 22. Do you think it was a mistake for the AIADMK to ally with the BJP? Yes, it was a mistake. If they had stood on their own, they would have won two or three seats more. What do you plan to do in Parliament where the BJP has a brute majority? We have seen the Emergency and fought it. Our MPs are veterans of Delhi politics. They will navigate the troubled waters easily. They will be a beacon of hope for the entire country. Leaders of all BIMSTEC countries have confirmed their participation in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony on Thursday for a second term. Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth and Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov also confirmed their participation at the event, the ministry of external affairs said. MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said President of Bangladesh Abdul Hamid, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, and Prime Minister of Nepal K P Sharma Oli have confirmed their participation at Modi's swearing-in ceremony. He said President of Myanmar U Win Myint and Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering also confirmed their attendance at the event. From Thailand, Kumar said, its Special Envoy Grisada Boonrach will represent the country at the ceremony. "We look forward to receiving the dignitaries in New Delhi for the ceremony," said the MEA spokesperson. India invited leaders of the BIMSTEC countries as well as Kyrgyz President Jeenbekov, the current chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and Mauritius PM Jugnauth for the Modi's swearing-in. Besides India, BIMSTEC comprises Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan. In 2014, Modi had invited all SAARC leaders including the then Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif for his swearing-in ceremony, in a major initiative to reach out to the neighbouring countries. However, invitation to BIMSTEC leaders for the event on Thursday is seen as an attempt to send a signal to Pakistan that India is not willing to engage with it. Sharif's attendance at Modi's swearing-in ceremony in 2014 had triggered hopes of better ties between the two countries. There were several engagements between the leaders of the two countries following Sharif's visit here. However, the ties derailed after the Pathankot terror attack in January 2016. A doctor at a state-run hospital in Mumbai, accused of abetting suicide of a junior colleague by tormenting her with castiest slurs, was arrested Tuesday, police said. IMAGE: Activists stage a protest condemning the death of Payal Tadvi. Photograph: PTI Photo Agripada police arrested Bhakti Mehere after initial interrogation, a police official said. Mehere was one of the three senior doctors against whom an offence was registered after 26-year-old Payal Tadvi committed suicide on May 22, police said. The two other accused doctors -- Ankita Khandelwal and Hema Ahuja -- have moved an anticipatory bail application before the session court in Mumbai, the official said. The three women in their bail application claimed innocence. The three doctors said in their bail plea they were not even aware of the victim's caste and had only professional interaction with her. In their bail application, which is likely to come up for hearing Wednesday, the doctors claimed they had not caused any harm to the victim, Dr Payal Tadvi, 26, who allegedly hanged herself on May 22. Meanwhile, Payal's parents protested at the state-run hospital in Mumbai where she worked. Other protesters also joined Tadvis mother Abeda and husband Salman, demanding stringent action against the three seniors who allegedly drove her to end her life by "torturing her by ragging and hurling casteist abuses at her." Protesters belonging to the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi and other Dalit and tribal organisations held protests outside the BYL Nair Hospital in Mumbai over Tadvi's death. Abeda said will the government take responsibility for safety of students like her daughter, who are pursuing higher education. She said Payal would have been the first woman MD doctor from their community. "Payal used to tell me about the torture which she was facing by her seniors on petty issues. They threw files on her face in front of patients," she said. "Payal used to tell me not to give a written complaint against her seniors despite being harassed by them. She would say that doing so would advesrely impact their career," Abeda said. Salman, a doctor, said it is possible that Payal was murdered by the three women doctors. Expressing solidarity with the protesters and with Tadvis family, Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad said he would visit Maharashtra if needed to "fight for justice for our younger sister. The Maharashtra State Commission for Women has also taken cognisance of the matter and issued a notice to the hospital authorities demanding a reply within eight days on the action taken to implement the anti-ragging law. The three women doctors at the hospital accused of driving Tadvi to suicide Monday sought a "fair probe" in the case. In a letter to the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors, they said they want the college to conduct a fair investigation in the matter and "give justice" to them. MARD has suspended the three doctors. We have credible inputs that the three doctors made casteist remarks against Dr Payal Tadvi, who allegedly committed suicide. We will cooperate with the police for the further investigation, a senior MARD official said. Tadvi committed suicide on May 22. Her family has alleged that the doctors taunted her for belonging to a Scheduled Tribe. The three doctors have been booked under the Atrocities Act, the Anti-Ragging Act and the IT Act and Section 306 (abetment to suicide) of the IPC. English French QUEBEC CITY, Quebec, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LeddarTech, an industry leader providing the most versatile and scalable auto and mobility LiDAR platform, is pleased to announce that LeddarTechs Mobility Leadership Series continues through the month of June with participation in several conferences across North America. LeddarTechs senior executives will present at Impulsion MTL 2019 on June 3rd, APMAs connectTEC conference on June 11th, and at the 2019 GSA Silicon Summit on June 18th. LeddarTech will also exhibit at TU-Automotive Detroit on June 5th. June 3rd: Impulsion MTL 2019 Montreal, Canada Frantz Saintellemy, president and COO of LeddarTech, will present at Impulsion MTL International Fleet Forum. The event will bring professionals and suppliers together around a common objective: upgrading fleets with new technologies and solutions to meet environmental, social, operational, and regulatory requirements. Mr. Saintellemys talk will focus on LiDAR and the evolution of technology in advanced driver-assistance systems. June 5th: TU-Automotive Detroit, U.S.A. Senior members from LeddarTech will exhibit at the TU Automotive Conference in Detroit, U.S.A. TU-Automotive Detroit is the world's largest automotive technology conference & exhibition, shaping the future of connected auto mobility. LeddarTech will exhibit as part of the Government of Canada pavilion. Visit booth #B113 to speak with our LiDAR specialists and discover our ADAS and AD solutions for automotive and mobility applications. June 11th: APMAs connectTEC Conference Windsor, Canada Pierre Olivier, Chief Technology Officer at LeddarTech, will join a panel discussion on Intelligent Mobility at the connectTEC Conference - The In.tel.li.gent Network. The APMA event aspires to bring together Canadas Leaders in Auto, ICT, Industry, and Infrastructure to discuss the challenges and identify the opportunities that lie ahead for Canadian manufacturers. Mr. Oliviers focus will be on communicating the impact of LiDAR Technology for automotive and mobility AD applications. June 18th: 2019 GSA Silicon Summit Santa Clara, U.S.A. Charles Boulanger, LeddarTechs CEO, will speak and participate in a Transformation of Mobility panel at the 2019 GSA Silicon Summit. Mr. Boulanger will discuss advanced LiDAR sensor architectures, and how platform solutions are enabling autonomous driving. GSAs Silicon Summit brings together more than 250 semiconductor executives from leading companies in the expanded semiconductor ecosystem for a full day of discussion and thought exchange. This years focus is on The Smart Evolution Ubiquity, Autonomy, Mobility. About LeddarTech LeddarTech is an industry leader providing the most versatile, scalable auto and mobility LiDAR platform based on the unique LeddarEngine, which consists of a suite of automotive-grade, functional safety certified SoCs working in tandem with LeddarSP signal processing software. The company is responsible for several innovations in cutting-edge mobility remote-sensing applications, its patented technologies enhancing ADAS and autonomous driving capabilities for automobiles, trucks, buses, delivery vehicles, robotaxis, shuttles, and more. Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.leddartech.com, and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. LeddarTech, Leddar, LeddarEngine, LeddarSP, and LeddarTech logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Inc. All other brands, product names, and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners. Pakistan has tried to downplay India's decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modi's swearing-in on Thursday, claiming that the Indian Prime Minister's 'internal politics' do not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) countries to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a part of the seven-member regional grouping. The BIMSTEC comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Prime Minister Khan to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. "His (Prime Minister Modi's) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon)," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. "India's internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation," he said. Modi and Khan are scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Kyrgyzstan next month. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in held on May 26 in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Khan after he won the general election last year and wrote a letter as well. Prime Minister Khan, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. "Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Mr Modi as a goodwill gesture," the Pakistani foreign minister said. "Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region... the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. "It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tension," Qureshi said. Prime Minister Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed killed 41 Central Reserve Police Force personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. Two people, including a child, were feared dead on Tuesday in a mass stabbing attack that also injured 17 people in Japan, emergency services said. The rampage, which took place in the Japanese city of Kawasaki, was a rare attack in a country with one of the lowest rates of violent crime in the developed world and there was no immediate detail on the motive of the knifeman. The attack occurred during the busy early morning commute as workers headed to their offices and children to school in Kawasaki, a city south of Tokyo. A male suspect, likely in his 40s to 50s, reportedly began slashing at people waiting at the station and was badly hurt after stabbing himself in the shoulder. He was detained on the spot by the police later. Footage broadcast on local television channels showed that emergency medical tents were put up to treat the wounded. The attack comes as Japan hosts United States President Donald Trump on a state visit, which wraps up Tuesday with the US leader visiting an American military base outside of Tokyo. With such a low crime rate, visitors to Japan are often surprised to see very young children travelling unaccompanied to school. Photographs: Kyodo/Reuters Rashtriya Janata Dal patriarch Lalu Prasad on Tuesday termed Rahul Gandhi's decision step down as Congress president as suicidal. The former Bihar chief minister, who is serving a jail term after conviction in the multi-crore fodder scam cases, said Rahuls resignation will amount to falling into the Bharatiya Janata Party's trap. According to a report published in English paper The Telegraph (external link), Lalu Prasad said Rahul Gandhi's decision to quit as Congress chief will not only ring the death knell for his party but all forces who are fighting against the Sangh Parivar. In the article, Lalu is quoted as saying, "The moment someone else beyond the Gandhi-Nehru family replaces Rahul, the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah brigade will paint the new leader as a puppet remote-controlled by Rahul and Sonia Gandhi. This will play on it till the next general election. Why should Rahul give such an opportunity to his political detractors?" Analysing the 2019 Lok Sabha election results, Lalu Prasad said that the Opposition should admit that the resounding victory for the Modi government was a collective failure and should introspect on what went wrong. "The Opposition parties had the common goal to dislodge the BJP but failed to build a national narrative. All across northern, eastern and western India, they fought it as though it were a state election. They failed to synchronise their strategy and actions. The people were looking for a national alternative, which the Opposition parties -- fighting in a disoriented manner in their respective states -- failed to provide," the former Bihar chief minister is quoted as saying. Referring to the fact that no clear PM candidate emerged from the opposition against Narendra Modi, Lalu Prasad said, the opposition could not choose one 'dulha' (groom) for their 'baraat' (wedding procession). According to reports, after the debacle in the Lok Sabha election, Rahul has offered to quit as Congress chief and has asked the party to look for a suitable successor. The RJD, meanwhile, drew a blank in Bihar. This is the first instance after its inception in 1997, that the RJD could not win a parliamentary seat in the state. The crisis in Rajasthan Congress after the debacle in the Lok Sabha polls deepened on Tuesday with two more leaders voicing their disappointment despite an advisory from the party against making public statements. Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee secretary Sushil Asopa said the state unit chief Sachin Pilot should have been made chief minister instead of Ashok Gehlot. Jaipur former mayor Jyoti Khandelwal, who was also the Congress candidate in the Lok Sabha polls, blamed poor booth management for her own defeat and sought a detailed analysis. In Delhi on Tuesday, Congress president Rahul Gandhi met Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his deputy Sachin Pilot separately. Meanwhile, the Rajasthan PCC will meet on Wednesday at party headquarters, a party spokesperson said. The meeting will be presided by Pilot in which All India Congress Committee general secretary Avinash Pandey and Gehlot will also be present, he said. It will be the first executive committee meeting after the party's debacle in Lok Sabha polls. Party leaders said that the meeting will brainstorm on the reasons of party's poor performance. The Congress failed to win a single Lok Sabha seat in Rajasthan despite a winning the assembly elections there just months back. In a Facebook post PCC secretary Sushil Asopa batted for Pilot. 'Wherever you go in Rajasthan, you hear one voice -- Congress. The results of the Lok Sabha elections would have been different had the party made Sachin Pilot chief minister as a reward for his hard work over five years,' he wrote. 'The public says it was because of Pilot's hard work over five years that a favourable atmosphere for the party was created and the party's MLA candidates won,' he said, adding that the youth thought that the younger leader will get the chance to be CM. When contacted, Asopa said, "I have just expressed my opinion on social media." He added that this was also the general sentiment. "Pilot worked hard for five years. He has wide acceptability among the youth who saw him as the next chief minister of Rajasthan during the assembly elections last year," he told PTI. He said the youth were disappointed when he was not made the CM. Jyoti Khandelwal said she wrote a letter to Rahul Gandhi before the counting of votes, seeking a detailed analysis of the party's functioning in Jaipur constituency, where she lost. "There was no impact of the Modi wave on the Jaipur seat where Congress vote share has increased as compared to the 2014 elections," she claimed. "Leaders and workers were not active in Malviya Nagar assembly constituency under the Jaipur Lok Sabha seat and the booth management was poor," she said. "The party should take the Jaipur Lok Sabha seat first for a detailed assessment," she added. She demanded that phone call details of leaders in Malviya Nagar should be examined and responsibility for the failure fixed. Earlier, Rajasthan ministers Udai Lal Anjana and Ramesh Meena had also demanded introspection and a detailed analysis of the defeat. Agriculture minister Lalchand Kataria on Sunday announced his 'resignation' from the state cabinet. A purported press release, circulated on social media, said he was resigning over the poor performance by the party in the elections. But there has been no confirmation on this by the Chief Minister's Office or the Raj Bhawan, and the minister has been unreachable. Ashok Gehlot faces accusation that he concentrated on his son Vaibhav Gehlot's Jodhpur constituency, neglecting others. All India Congress Committee general secretary in charge of Rajasthan, Avinash Pande, has advised party workers against airing their views in public. "Congress leaders and workers should refrain from giving public statements. A review meeting on the election results will be held soon and every Congress man will have a chance to express his thoughts," Pande said in a statement on Monday. Congress faced defeat on all the 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party won 24 seats and its alliance partner Rashtriya Loktantrik Party headed by Hanuman Beniwal won one seat. -- PTI Tamil superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a 'charismatic' leader like Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi and attributed the Bharatiya Janata Party's massive win in the Lok Sabha polls to his leadership. He also said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi need not resign following the party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections, saying he was a youngster and perhaps had not got the cooperation of senior party leaders. The veteran star likened Modi to tall leaders of India, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, A B Vajpayee, K Kamaraj, C N Annadurai, M G Ramachandran, M Karunanidhi and J Jayalalithaa. "This Lok Sabha poll victory is a win for the individual leadership called Modi. It is the victory for a charismatic leader," he told reporters in Chennai. "In Indian politics, whether at the national level or state, any party will reap wins only on the (popularity) of a leader. He is a charismatic leader," he said about Modi. He noted that the country in the past had charismatic leaders like Nehru, Indira, Rajiv and Vajpayee. "After them (the country) has got Modi, a charismatic leader. If you see in Tamil Nadu, there were charismatic leaders like Kamaraj, Anna, Kalaignar, MGR, Jayalalithaa. Along those lines, this victory is achieved for the leadership of Modi," he said. However, the BJP lost out in southern states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu due to an "anti-Modi wave" though there was a pro-Modi wave in other parts of the country, he noted. "When there is a political wave, one cannot swim against it and will be swept away," he added. The reasons for such an anti-Modi wave in Tamil Nadu included the Sterlite issue in Tuticorin, methane extraction project in Cauvery delta and the 'whirlwind campaign' of the opposition, Rajinikanth added. On Congress chief Gandhi's offer to resign, the Tamil superstar said, "He should not resign." "I won't say he lacks leadership qualities. I think it is really difficult to handle the Congress party... where senior- most people are there." "As a youngster it is difficult to handle the senior-most people. Even I think, my observation is, the senior Congress leaders -- they had not cooperated well. They had not worked hard," he said. There was no need for Gandhi to resign as an opposition party was as important as the ruling one in a democracy, the veteran star added. HARTFORD As Gov. Ned Lamont signed into law a bill that will increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2023, Connecticuts largest business lobby continued to urge the former cable executive not sign it, or any other legislation they believe will be detrimental to business and the economy. Surrounded by labor at the Parkville Care Center nursing home in Hartford, Lamont signed the bill. This is a big deal, Lamont said. After the press conference, Lamont said this bill is a big win for Connecticut and a big win for working families. This is a 10 percent raise for people on Oct. 1. Thats $40 a week. Under the new law the current minimum wage of $10.10 an hour will increase to $11 in October, $12 on Sept. 1, 2020, $13 on Aug. 1, 2021, $14 on July 1, 2022, and then $15 on June 1, 2023. Lamont also asked Laizer Kornwasser, president and COO of CareCentrix, to speak about why five years ago they decided to increase their lowest wage to $15 an hour. Lamont said the company, which has no relationship to the nursing home where the signing ceremony was conducted, decided it was going to treat its workers with respect and thats what this bill is all about, treating people with respect. Kornwasser said they made the decision to increase the minimum wage they pay their employees because we felt that was the right thing to do. He said since the company made that decision theyve doubled their revenue and theyve also doubled the number of employees they have in the state of Connecticut. CareCentrix is the home healthcare company the state helped move from East Hartford to Hartford with a $24 million economic development package. The Connecticut Business and Industry Association continued their vocal opposition to the legislation, releasing a statement today. Not a day goes by when I dont hear from a small business owner, often a small manufacturer, about the impact that a steeply higher minimum wage and an expansive paid FMLA bill will have on their ability to continue operating here, Joe Brennan, president and CEO of the CBA, said in an open letter to lawmakers. Do we really want to make it harder for these types of companies to compete and employ people here? For Senate Republican Leader Len Fasano, R-North Haven, it was too little, too late. After weeks of virtual silence, the CBIA, with less than two weeks left, decided to speak, Fasano said in a statement. I agree with many of the sentiments in Mr. Brennans letter, but there is one glaring omission. Mr. Brennan cannot bring himself to say the word Democrat. CBIA does not have the courage to call out the party that is advancing these harmful policies. Andrew Markowski, state director of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) in Connecticut, said the minimum wage increase will be a hardship on small business owners in food service, day care, amusements, or any company that hires entry-level workers. Rep. Robyn Porter, D-New Haven, said there was a lot of discussion during the 14-hour debate in the House about how a minimum wage is not a living wage. It was said whats a dollar? Whats a dollar when you dont have it? Thats a lot of money, Porter said. Times 40 thats a meal, a utility bill, a pair of shoes for the child, a school trip. She said the state of Connecticut has set a trend and she hopes the rest of the states will jump on board. Connecticut is the seventh state to increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour. Many of the same supporters of a minimum wage increase have also been working to get Paid Family and Medical Leave across the finish line. Last week Lamont threatened to veto the version of the bill the Senate passed and the House has yet to take it up. Paid Family and Medical Leave will pass. Were gonna get something done, Lamont said. Lamont had issues about how the quasi-public agency in charge of the trust fund would be governed. After completing the signing ceremony, Lamont was taking pictures with supporters of the bill when a fire alarm went off at the facility, cutting short the celebration. In 2003, 16 people died in a fire at the facility when it was under previous ownership. At that time it was called the Greenwood Health Center. The Parkville Health Center is owned and operated by iCare, which recently reached an agreement with its unionized employees to avoid a strike. Manila (CNN Philippines Life) On May 17, Taiwan became the first country in Asia to pass marriage equality into law. A few days later, Congress released an online poll on its website asking citizens whether they are in favor of legalizing same-sex unions as civil partnerships in the Philippines. Suddenly, social media was abuzz with varying opinions on the poll. Conservatives expressed their staunch disapproval, pushing the polls results to lean heavily towards no. Meanwhile, within the LGBTQ+ community, there was no general consensus on the poll. Some were angered by the phrasing of the options (Why was personal opinions an acceptable basis for answering no?). Others were wary of the use of unions rather than marriage. There were also those who, though dismayed by the results but hopeful for change, clamored for more LGBTQ+ members and allies to vote. But how much do these online polls affect public policy anyway? And how crucial is it for the local LGBTQ+ community to bring it into the spotlight? According to Jeff Crisostomo, communications officer of outgoing Representative and Governor-Elect Kaka Bag-ao of Dinagat Islands, the online poll has very little to no bearing on policy. Gov. Kaka Bag-ao is the principal author of the Anti-Discrimination Bill (ADB), also known as the SOGIE Equality Bill. The online poll is a feature added to Congress website by the IT department. Once in a while, the site runs a poll on hot topics on social media, such as the lowering of the age of criminal liability. Congressional offices don't get the final results of the poll, he says. We never get to discuss poll results from the websites in any committee hearing, much more in plenary debates. Crisostomo adds that though the poll itself may not affect policies, the conversation around it might spark discussions in Congress. However, it must be taken into account that data and survey results are not necessarily the basis of decision-making. For instance, death penalty. Kahit mas maraming hindi pabor base sa surveys ng SWS at PulseAsia, pinasa pa rin ito ng Kamara, he says. What then can members of the LGBTQ+ community do now? Personally, I believe that we must fight for the passage of the SOGIE Equality Bill first, says Crisostomo. We need to ensure the protection of basic rights for all persons regardless of their SOGIE. Many LGBTQ+ advocates stand by this as well, including Atty. Jazz Tamayo of legal literacy NGO Rainbow Rights Philippines. In fact, advocates worry that in the clamor for same-sex unions/marriage, the SOGIE Equality Bill, which already is in dire straits, becomes further ignored. The bill was passed in the lower house in 2017, but it has since languished in the Senate. Its the longest-running bill in the period of interpellations, and with the 17th Congress coming to a close this June, the 19-year-old bills fate remains in limbo. It will have to be filed again, bringing the fight for an anti-discrimination law back to square one. Tamayo tells me that when the discussion is centered on same-sex marriage, lobbyists are often forced to go on a defense fielding questions on morality, religion, divorce, etc. instead of talking about the merits of the bill. This makes it much more difficult to get people on board with the SOGIE Equality Bill. Bakit pinupush ang Anti-Discrimination Bill, o ang SOGIE Equality Bill pero bakit hindi gaanong maingay tungkol sa marriage equality? Tamayo asks during Pride Speaks, a discussion on LGBTQ+ activism organized by Metro Manila Pride. Kasi may paniniwala kami sa advocacy na yung SOGIE Equality Bill, it cuts across the board. Mas marami kasing nakaka-benefit doon. Mayaman o mahirap, single o hindi, pwede kang gumamit ng batas kasi mapoproteksyunan ka niyan sa trabaho mo, sa eskuwelahan mo, she adds. Hindi ibig sabihin na hindi importante ang marriage equality. Ang ibig sabihin lang, in terms of prioritizing, mas mahalagang may trabaho ka, diba? With all this in mind, how can members of the LGBTQ+ community participate in lobbying for the SOGIE Equality Bill? Shatter myths about the LGBTQ+ community Call out stereotypes, break myths about both the LGBT community and about the proposed bill, says Tamayo. SOGIE Bill does not give special treatment or special rights. What it's trying to do is correct an imbalance [in the law], she stresses, pointing to the provisions in the bill that state that under the law, LGBTQ+ individuals will gain protection against hate speech and SOGIE-based discrimination in private and government workplaces, schools (including parents/legal guardians), and in obtaining assistance and services. The bill also prohibits forced medical or psychological evaluations and harassment in handling of criminal cases. Tamayo also suggests that artists and creative groups can take the initiative to tell stories that portray LGBTQ+ individuals in a realistic, non-stereotypical, and positive light. This is also a way of reaching out to LGBTQ+ youth and individuals in the closet and telling them that life as a queer person does not always have to be tragic. Contact your district representatives/senators I think it is best to share narratives of discrimination with the legislators, district representatives man or senators, Tamayo says. Tag them [online], tell them about why ADB is needed, how it could have helped [you] had it been passed, how it could help [you] against discrimination. For Crisostomo, this also means reaching out beyond social media. Palagay ko mas epektibo pa rin ang direct lobbying at mass actions. So far, the debate has been confined to social media, and for me, I don't think that we should stop there. Push for Anti-Discrimination Ordinances (ADOs) in your own localities ADOs are local ordinances that prohibit discrimination and enforce certain penalties in specific barangays, cities, municipalities, or provinces. Advocates and LGBT persons should push ADOs in their own localities, para in the interim na wala pang ADB, mas dumami ang areas na merong ADOs, may remedies, says Tamayo. However, it should be noted that no ordinance is the same, and not all ordinances have implementing rules and regulations (IRRs). Push for anti-discrimination policies in the workplace A study conducted by the Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce and research firm Cogencia found that out of 100 Philippine-based companies, none of them implemented SOGIE-based anti-discrimination policies. Pushing for SOGIE-inclusive policies in your workplace doesnt just protect LGBTQ+ employees within that company, but sets an example for other companies as well. Another thing individuals can do is to urge executives and higher-ups to speak up and release statements in support of the ADB. Participate in data gathering efforts Data gathering efforts help equip legislators to strengthen the bill further. It also gives lobbyists more information about the community to push lawmakers into acting on the bill. At the 2018 Metro Manila Pride March and Festival, surveys conducted among attendees showed that discrimination in the form of physical and verbal abuse is still very much a reality today. Go outside of your immediate circles Its vital to note that most attendees of the Metro Manila Pride March and Festival and therefore most survey respondents are from a younger, urban, middle-class demographic. At Pride Speaks, Bernadette V. Neri, an assistant professor at the Department of Filipino and Philippine Literature at UP Diliman and chairperson of LGBT organization Bahaghari Metro Manila, talks about the importance of recognizing this imbalance in representation. Ang hirap humanap ng LGBT advocacy na hindi city-centric at labas sa middle-class, she says. Nagmimistulang walang ibang LGBT. Pero hindi naman ito totoo. Tayo sa lungsod, yun ang hamon sa atin ... gaano ba natin kakilala ang ating sector na labas nga doon sa tayo-tayo lang? Kasi doon talaga [tayo] magiging mas buo, mas magkakaroon ng dibersidad, ng pagkakaiba ng karanasan. Kung makakalap natin 'yun at makakapagsama-sama tayo, mas mabunga ang paraan ng pag-oorganisa ng ating sektor. Dublin, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Western Europe Pay TV Forecasts" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Reflecting the rising importance of the telcos, IPTV is gaining subscribers in Western Europe at the expense of the other pay TV platforms. IPTV overtook satellite TV in 2015 and will be approaching cable by 2024. IPTV will add 5.5 million subscribers between 2018 and 2024. Simon Murray a Principal Analyst said: IPTV operations are owned by telcos. Some telcos also have assets on other platforms. If all of the current proposed deals receive regulatory approval, then telcos will have 18.61 million non-IPTV subscribers by 2024. Adding the 38.72 million IPTV subscribers, telcos will control 56% of Western Europe's pay TV subscribers by 2024. Murray continued: This marks a sea change for Western Europe's pay TV sector. Pay TV is not the priority for telcos - broadband and mobile provision are at the forefront. Western Europe will have 101.59 million pay TV subscribers by 2024. Germany will contribute a quarter of the total, followed by the UK (15%) and France (14%). Half of the 18 countries covered in the Western Europe Pay TV Forecasts report will lose pay TV subscribers between 2018 and 2024. Italy will decline the most (down by 728,000 subs) from the 1,229,000 overall losses, followed by the UK (down by 621,000). Key Topics Covered: Outlook: Forecasts for 18 countries in a 55-page PowerPoint document full of charts, graphs and bullet points; Excel workbook covering each year from 2010 to 2024 for 18 countries by household penetration, by pay TV subscribers, by pay TV revenues and by major operator. As well as summary tables by country and by platform; Insight: Detailed country-by-country analysis in an 86-page PDF document. Companies Mentioned Bouygues Boxer BT Canal Digital CanalSat Com Hem DNA DT/T-Home eir Elisa Eltrona Euskatel Free Freenet Get Go HD Austria HD+ KPN/Digitenne Liwest Mediaset Melita Meo/PT NOS Nowo Ono Orange Proximus Riks TV SFR Siminn Sky Stofa Sunrise Swisscom TalkTalk TDC Tele 2 Tele des P&T Telecable Telecolumbus Telecom Italia Telefonica/Movistar Telekom Austria Telenet Telenor Telesat/TV Vlaanderen Telia TNT Unitymedia UPC Viasat Virgin Vodafone VOO You See Ziggo For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/9px5bs Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. LITCHFIELD The Litchfield Historical Society invites the community to participate in The Great Litchfield Challenge: A Puzzle 300 Years in the Making, June 1, 12-4 p.m. The Challenge will begin in the Tapping Reeve Meadow, but soon teams will be off and driving to every corner of the town as they complete challenges, earn clues, and uncover the history of Litchfield. Games, music, and refreshments for competitors and spectators will be waiting at Tapping Reeve Meadow for when the challenge has been completed. The challenge is $50 per team. Teams are limited to one car-load and must have at least one team member with a drivers license. Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www.litchfieldhistoricalsociety.org, email registration@litchfieldhistoricalsociety.org, or call 860-567-4501. Space is limited, so register by May 24th Clem students have exhibit at Morris library MORRIS Frances Clem Studios artists are sharing some of their creative journeying with the Morris Public Library.. The young artists explore, experiment and celebrate mistakes as an opportunity to learn something new. Frances Clem Studios is a participant of the Global Art Project for Peace and The Memory Project. For more information: https://morrispubliclibrary.net, 860-567-7440 or email Fran Clem at clem_artkids@yahoo.com SVNA to hold cancer survivors celebration LAKEVILLE Salisbury Visiting Nurse Association and VNA Northwest are hosting a cancer survivor celebration, June 4, 5-7 p.m. at the Town Grove in Lakeville to commemorate National Cancer Survivors Day. A $10 donation at the door includes 4 raffle tickets. The celebration will include drinks and hors doevures, a raffle, and live music provided by Northwest Passage, with guest speaker Sandy Dennis. To RSVP, call Joanna at 860-435-0816 or jgeiger@salisburyvna.org Major advances in cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment have resulted in longer survival. However, a cancer diagnosis can leave a host of problems in its wake. Physical, financial, and emotional hardships often persist for years after diagnosis and treatment. Survivors must contend with rapidly rising drug costs, inadequate insurance coverage and difficulty finding or keeping employment. In light of these difficulties, our community needs to stand with these survivors and make a commitment to addressing the challenges of cancer survival. Woodbury Lions to hold car show WOODBURY The Woodbury Lions Club is presenting th 41st Annual Car Show June 9 at Hollow Park in Woodbury. This years special theme is a tribute to veterans. Cars can be entered for judging at 8 a.m., with the first three hundred entries receiving a free dashboard plaque, with general admission beginning at 10 a.m. Admission is $15 per car, $6 for walk-ins, $! for children under 10. Judging begins at noon, with trophies presented at 3 p.m. Along with the car show, the food booth has been expanded with breakfast sandwiches being sold starting at 8 a.m., along with the usual hot dogs and hamburgers offered starting at 11 a.m. The show also includes raffles, music, a Touch-a-Truck event and a vendor area. There is still room for a few vendors, especially those who sell automobile-related wares. No food vendors can be accepted. Space is $25 for a 10x10 area. Contact the club by email at woodburyctlions@gmail.com for a registration form. For more information about the car show and the Woodbury Lions, visit www.woodburyctlions.org. Paul Cryan Photo Fundraiser returns NEW HARTFORD Photographer Paul Cryan will bring his photo fundraiser to the Beekley Memorial Library, June 17, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. All proceeds from this photo session will be donated by Cryan Photography to the Beekley Community Library. Each child will be given one five-minute appointment. Paul will take about 30 shots of each child, and his staff will select the three best shots and make up a 5 x 7 photo of each one. Families may buy the package of three photos for $68, package of two photos for $60, or individual photos for $30 each. A digital package of three images in high definition is available on disc for $100, or purchase the disc and three photos for $135. Extra copies in different sizes are also available: 11x14, $56; 8x10, $42; 5x7, $30; 8 wallets, $32; 16 wallets, $49. Photos will be black and white. The minimum age is 6 months, maximum, 21 years old, and no group shots, only individual portraits The library has a sign-up sheet. Appointments are required; call 860-379-7235. Vendors invited to Peddlers Flea Market FALLS VILLAGE The Falls Village-Canaan Historical Society is holding the annual Peddlers Flea Market, June 15, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. The rain date is June 16. The market will be held at the South Canaan Meeting House on Route 63 in Falls Village with a bake sale, crafts, antiques, tag sales, and a huge book sale with all books for $1 each. Hot dogs will also be available throughout the day. Vendor spaces are available. If interested, call 860-824-5607, 860-824-8226 or email fvchs8226@gmail.com. WINSTED - This year the art department at Northwestern Connecticut Community College (NCCC) will exhibit at the Winsted Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), graphic design posters from past graduates. The posters, which highlight graphic design history, are both beautiful and informative. The former student artists include: Brooke Bittel, Lea Carosella, Jamie LeMieux, Amber Foley, Noah Solbol, Chelsea Solkowski, and Christina Warchol. The goal of the graphic design history project is twofold; one, to expose students to the rich history of graphic design. These posters represent 20th century designers as well as designers practicing today. Two, it requires students to use only type to emulate the style of a chosen designer. By following in the footsteps of an artists work, students examine how the chosen designer solved problems using distinct methods and styles. The NCCC art department endeavors to teach students higher order thinking skills such as problem solving, spacial relationships, creative trouble-shooting and critical analysis. The art department offers an array of credit courses leading to an associate in science degree or certificates. Stdents may choose to specialize in Graphic Design, Digital Media, Photography or Fine Arts (drawing, painting, ceramics, and sculpture), as they progress in the art program. Certificate programs are available in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Digital Media and Photography. For more information about Northwestern Connecticut Community College Art Departments programs, contact Professor Janet Nesteruk at Jnesteruk@nwcc.edu or Professor Sue Berg at Sberg@nwcc.edu. CJR to hold annual scholarship dinner WATERBURY On Wednesday, June 5, the Connecticut Junior Republic will hold its 18th Annual Scholarship Dinner at LaBella Vista in Waterbury, June 5, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Proceeds provide scholarships for boys and girls who are associated with CJRs programs in 11 locations throughout Connecticut. The scholarships will assist students in obtaining a college, university, or technical school education. Tickets are $30 per person, and include a buffet dinner of salad, pasta, chicken marsala, stuffed fillet of sole, potatoes, vegetables and chocolate mousse cake. More than 200 sponsors, guests, scholarship recipients and family members are expected to attend. Scholarships will be awarded to 21 young people with recipients from five of CJRs program locations across Connecticut anticipated to receive awards. Tickets may be purchased in advance until Wednesday, May 29, via CJRs website: www.ctjuniorrepublic.org. Tickets will not be sold at the door. Last year CJR raised more than $56,000 in net proceeds through this event, said CJR Executive Director Daniel W. Rezende in a statement. This year we hope to do as well so we can provide at least as much support for our young people, he said. He noted that CJR just received a $5,000 challenge grant from the David, Helen and Marian Woodward Fund (Watertown). I am optimistic that we will be able to fully match this very generous grant commitment, he said. Founded in 1904, the Connecticut Junior Republic (CJR) provides care, treatment, education and family support for vulnerable at-risk, special needs and troubled young people so they may become productive and fulfilled members of their homes, schools and communities. Today, the organizations combined community-based and residential programs serve approximately 1,500 boys and girls annually. Connecticut Junior Republic conducts three residential programs for young men on its Litchfield campus, and longer term care at its REGIONS Program in Waterbury and Group Home in Winchester. Regular, special, vocational and alternative education programs are provided for boys from communities throughout onnecticut at CJRs Cable Academic and Vocational Education Center, which is located on its Litchfield campus. Enhancement, transition and related services are also provided. CJR also provides educational services for a growing number of girls at its Cable Academic and Vocational Education Center campus in Bristol. A broad spectrum of prevention, early intervention, family support, and intensive, home-based service and aftercare programs are provided for boys and girls through CJRs community locations in Danbury, East Hartford, Meriden, New London, New Britain, Torrington and Waterbury. Behavioral and mental health services are provided at most of these locations, as well as Litchfield and by special arrangement at the Gilbert School in Winsted. A private charitable organization, the Connecticut Junior Republic is accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). CJR is supported by gifts from individuals, businesses, foundations and organizations, and through service contracts funded by the Judicial Branch Court Support Services Division (JBCSSD), the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF), the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS), and by Connecticuts public schools. For further information, please contact Hedy Barton, Director of Development and Public Relations 860-567-9423, extension 252; or by email: hbarton@cjryouth.org. Albany, New York, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With rapidly expanding biomedical research, the growth in the global mice model market will rise considerably in the coming few years. There are high chances that the global mice model market will across US$1.79 bn by 2023. Extensive use of the mice model is done for studying ALS diseases and to understand lung injury repairing processes. Few animals and humans share some specific genetic make-up, which prompts us carry out various experiments on the animals. Mice, rabbits, and pigs are the most preferred animals for such tests. Moreover, increasing investments in biomedical research has encouraged the use of mice model at an extensive rate. Request to View Sample of Report - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=2085 Maximum use of mice model is seen in the North American region, as the pharmaceutical industry is growing extensively coupled with ongoing advancements in the biosciences research field. Moreover, the growing popularity of CRISPR technology for creating gene knockouts is also pushing the use of mice model. Mice Model Setting Platform for Advanced Researches Based on a recent study, mice modeling helped in repairing and reconnecting dysfunctional neurons to various parts of the brain in dementia patients. It has been found that in mice chemically activating cells, and engaging animals with toys and stimulating environment reversed the alteration and restored a few of the connectivity by dementia. Similar changes were experienced and new directions were seen in humans that helped in combating cognitive decline among the geriatrics. Request PDF Brochure of Report - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=2085 Another outreaching contribution by using mice model involves understanding the role of different cells in developing cachexia. Scientist first used usual suspect proteins, but it did not have enough effect in controlling cachexia. They then investigated T cells and surprisingly found that they were being implicated in cachexia. Additionally, the study also showed that the LCMV virus activated the T cells triggering cachexia. However further research is still required to understand the full working of T cells. Request For Discount On This Report - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=2085 With these developments taking place, the global mice model market holds a substantial share in the ongoing research and development activities. More Trending Reports by Transparency Market Research: Eosinophilic Asthma Treatment Market - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/eosinophilic-asthma-treatment-market.html Chlorhexidine Gluconate Cloths Market - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/chlorhexidine-gluconate-cloths-market.html Abetalipoproteinemia Monitoring Systems Market - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/abetalipoproteinemia-monitoring-systems-market.html About TMR Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information. A university in Atlanta, Georgia has fired two Chinese scientists over an alleged failure to disclose sources of overseas financing and research ties in China. Emory University said it had fired two faculty members, who were identified in Hong Kong's South China Morning Post newspaper as Li Xiaojiang and his wife Li Shihua, after an investigation revealed that they had "failed to fully disclose foreign sources of research funding and the extent of their work for research institutions and universities in China." "Emory has shared this information with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the faculty members are no longer employed at Emory," the university said in a statement. According to the Chinese science website Zhishi Fenzi, Emory shut down Li's laboratory on May 16, while he was on leave and visiting China. Investigators seized computers and documents, and questioned members of his research team. Emory said it had acted on a warning issued by Francis Collins, director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the U.S. last August, in which he warned of hidden sources of overseas funding for researchers working at NIH-funded institutions. Li Xiaojiang had worked at Emory for more than two decades and led the universitys research on gene-editing technology, the SCMP reported. He was a member of the Chinese government's Thousand Talents Program, a scheme to encourage leading professionals to work in China. 'Diversion of property' In his August statement, Francis also warned of the "diversion of intellectual property in grant applications or produced by NIH-supported biomedical research to other entities, including other countries." He said researchers asked to peer-review work in their field were also sharing that research with others, "including in some instances with foreign entities." Emory said it began its probe after the NIH sent a letter to many academic research universities. "Emory discovered that two of its faculty members named as key personnel on NIH grant awards to Emory University had failed to fully disclose foreign sources of research funding and the extent of their work for research institutions and universities in China," it said. "Emory ... takes very seriously its obligation to be a good steward of federal research dollars and to ensure compliance with all funding disclosure and other requirements," the statement said. Scientific commentator Heng He said he wasn't surprised by the announcement, and said the Thousand Talents program was part of the ruling Chinese Communist Party's overall strategy for acquiring overseas knowledge and expertise. "It's pretty unique in the world, for a country to use all the power of the machinery of state to mobilize the resources of the whole of society, so that [Chinese] scholars working in the United States can serve the interests of their country," Heng said. Purge unlikely Feng Chongyi, associate professor in China Studies at Sydney's University of Technology, said the firing of the Li's was unlikely to herald a "purge" of Thousand Talents researchers in the U.S. "This is more like killing the chickens to frighten the monkeys," Feng told RFA. "They want to curb the others, and let other researchers working in U.S. institutions know that they can't be as relaxed as they were before about taking U.S. technology back to China." But he said the move could have an impact on other Chinese researchers applying for new research positions overseas. "Things could get much harder for Chinese people applying to top research institutions in the U.S. or other Western countries in future," Feng said. Australia-based student Wu Lebao said the impact would likely be limited to areas of research considered sensitive. "On the one hand, they want to guard against Chinese infiltration, but there is a fundamental conflict with protecting their own interests," Wu said. "I think this will have an impact, but it is inevitable." "I don't think that the normal development of China's economy is going to be negatively affected by a few controls on students and visiting scholars who work in national defense or high technology," he said. Reported by Wen Yuqing for RFA's Cantonese Service, and by Jia Ao for the Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. Relatives of victims of the Tiananmen massacre of civilians by China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) on , 1989 marked the 30th anniversary of their loved ones' death on , under close surveillance by the authorities. You Weijie, spokeswoman for the Tiananmen Mothers victims' group, posted video footage of several of its members lighting white candles in memory of their loved ones to social media, Tiananmen Mothers member Zhang Xianling told RFA. "Every year around , we lay wreaths for our lost relatives at the Wan'an public cemetery," Zhang, who is currently under round-the-clock surveillance by China's state security police, said. "We refuse to keep a low profile, although we have never tried to have a high profile either," said Zhang, whose 19-year-old son died in the military assault on Beijing that began on the night of , 1989. "We do what we need to do." Nonetheless, the authorities have targeted the group's members for surveillance and curbs on public commemoration, year in, year out, for the past three decades, Zhang said. "They didn't want us to gather together, but we protested about that, and so we were eventually allowed to get together," she said. "We were going to get together this year regardless of what they said or the measures they took." "We keep up our resistance, keep up the fight, but in a peaceful, rational and non-violent manner, not [actually] fighting them," Zhang said. The ruling Chinese Communist Party styled the 1989 student-led democracy protests a "counterrevolutionary rebellion" and "political turmoil," and the families of victims are demanding a re-evaluation of that verdict, as well as compensation and a public inquiry into the massacre, with the aim of holding the leaders of the time responsible. Public memorials and discussions of the events of are still largely banned in mainland China, with activists who seek to commemorate the bloodshed often detained, with veteran dissidents placed under police surveillance or detention ahead of each anniversary. The Tiananmen Mothers have been writing to China's National People's Congress (NPC) with their demands annually for more than 20 years, but have never received any kind of reply, only police restrictions. Anger, grief and heavy-heartedness Zhang said she has spent the past 30 years experiencing anger, grief and heavy-heartedness. She cited a recent official history of the post-1979 era of economic reforms as typical of the attitude of the current leadership under President Xi Jinping, which sticks to the ruling party's description of the weeks of peaceful, student-led protests on Tiananmen Square as "political turmoil" and "counterrevolutionary rebellion." Zhang said the official verdict is a distortion of history, and called once more for a full inquiry, compensation and for those responsible for the massacre to be held to account. Meanwhile, Beijing-based Zhang Baocheng, who was among a group of dissidents detained in for posting a commemorative photo of themselves ahead of that year's massacre anniversary, has been detained and his home searched, sources said. "They searched his home and apparently there was a firearm," a friend of Zhang's said. "It's pretty serious, anyway." "They took away his computer and cell phone. We haven't seen any legal document yet detailing the formal reason for his detention," the friend said. "But the anniversary is fast approaching, so it could be [to do with that]." And Hunan-based activist Ou Biaofeng was taken away on an enforced "vacation" by police to stop him from giving media interviews in the run-up to the anniversary, former rights activist Xie Wenfei told RFA. "Ou Biaofeng was taken away to Kunming on vacation a few days ago," Xie said. "His usual cell phone number has been switched off." "It's to stop him from talking to international media during the run-up to ," he said. "Some other people have been called in for chats [with police], so they know the score." The death toll from the night of -4, 1989, when PLA tanks and troops entered Beijing, opening fire on unarmed civilians, remains unknown to this day. While the Chinese government once put the death toll at "nearly 300,"it has never issued an official toll or list of names. A 2009 map published by the Tiananmen Mothers listed more than 250 names garnered from confirmed eyewitness accounts and hospital records of those known to have died in the days after , but it is unlikely to be an exhaustive account of casualties. Reported by Wong Lok-to for RFA's Cantonese Service, and by Gao Feng for the Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. Several hundred of 200,000 pro-democracy student protesters face to face with policemen outside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing's Tiananmen Square April 22, 1989. Several hundred of 200,000 pro-democracy student protesters face to face with policemen outside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing's Tiananmen Square April 22, 1989. Thirty years after the People's Liberation Army cracked down on weeks of student-led protest with machine gun fire and tanks, former student leader Wu Renhua says the scenes of bloodshed that unfolded before him on the night of June 3-4, 1989, will never leave him. Wu, who was among the last of the student protesters to leave Tiananmen Square peacefully by arrangement with incoming troops, said the students never expected the tanks and armored vehicles to pursue them down Chang'an Avenue to Liubukou, where an unknown number of students died: Suddenly, three tanks from the first tank division of Tianjin military district launched a poison gas shell, then they accelerated and pursued the students from behind. One of the tanks -- bearing the number 106 -- turned around and plowed into the students from behind. There was a Ph.D. student from the Beijing Aviation Academy and masters student, Wang Kuanbao, who were walking along with the rest of us, pushing their bikes. I never thought the tank would catch up with us so fast. They died on the spot. I will never forget what I saw. When I got back to the University of Political Science and Law at around 10.00 a.m. [on June 4], the first thing I saw when I walked through the campus gate was the bodies of five students killed in the Liubukou tank incident. They had been brought back to the campus by Beijing's private transportation drivers and laid out on tables in classrooms in the main teaching building. I had just led a group of some 20 students back from Tiananmen Square, and I knelt down in front of those five bodies soaked in blood. I was weeping in grief, but in another part of my mind, a voice was saying: "Never forget. Never forget. Never forget." A student from Renmin University called Wu Guofeng was on the ground after taking three bullets. Then an officer of the PLA army that was enforcing martial law took out his handgun and shot him one more time to the head, and a regular soldier bayoneted his chest and dragged downwards, causing a wound of seven or eight centimeters. It was horrific. It was such a cruel way to kill someone. This isn't just about reawakening our memories of the past. More importantly, we want to force the Chinese Communist Party to confront these images in a profound way. The current dictatorial regime in China is the biggest threat to Taiwan; actually it's the only threat. We have to make protecting Taiwan's democracy and sovereignty the top priority, otherwise there won't be any elections for the people of Taiwan to vote in. Reported by Hwang Chun-mei for RFA's Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. Seven Myanmar soldiers jailed for the killing of 10 Rohingya Muslim men and boys in the western state of Rakhine in 2017 were given early release, a prison official told RFAs Myanmar Service on Monday. "The seven military men serving jail sentences are no longer in prison, Myint Soe, director general of the Prisons Department, told RFA. The official confirmed details in a report by Reuters news agency, which quoted two prison officials, two former fellow inmates and one of the soldiers jailed for the September 2017 killings at Inn Din village. The soldiers were freed in November last year, the two inmates told Reuters, meaning they served less than one year of their 10-year prison terms and less jail time than two Reuters reporters who uncovered the killings. The journalists, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, spent more than 16 months in jail on charges of obtaining state secrets. They were released in an amnesty on May 6, shortly after winning a Pulitzer Prize for their reporting on the Inn Din murders. "We havent learned anything about this Inn Din case yet. We learned it only now from you, said Brigadier General Aung Kyaw Hoe, the permanent secretary of the Home Affairs Ministry. Col. Aung Khin Thein of the Ministry of Defense told reporters that the seven soldiers who were serving jail time could have made an appeal for their release in accordance with the legal proceedings to the commander-in-chief, Sr. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing. Reuters quoted a man named Zin Paing Soe in a telephone interview who confirmed that he was one of the seven soldiers. He told the agency that he was free but declined to comment further. "We were told to shut up," he said. If it is true, it is totally unacceptable. It gives the message that military members can do whatever they want and walk away free, said Bo Kyi of the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners. These soldiers were convicted for murders. Early release of these convicts violates the Geneva Convention agreements and international principles, he told RFA. More than anything, the early release of these seven soldiers reveals Sr. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing and Tatmadaw commanders dont really consider the Rohingya to be human, and were never committed to seeing anyone held accountable for their crimes in Rakhine state, said Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director of Human Rights Watch. The only reason these seven soldiers were arrested is because Reuters journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo exposed these cold-blooded murders in an investigative news story that could not be refuted, he said in a statement. Prominent lawyer Kyi Myint said the early release of the seven soldiers showed that the military is off-limits from application to the rule of law and doesn't seem to concern itself with the civilian government. All in all, there is no rule of law in the whole country. The military has committed this kind of action all the time. This action clearly indicates the lack of rule of law in the country, said Maung Maung Lay of the Human Rights Defenders Network. We could say the military is above the law. At the time of their arrest, the two Reuters reporters were working on a story about the murders of 10 Rohingya men, including two teenagers, from Inn Din village in northern Rakhine state. The news agency later produced a gripping account of the killings by soldiers and ethnic Rakhine Buddhist neighbors. The 10 Rohingya men were buried in a mass grave after being hacked to death or shot by Buddhist neighbors and soldiers. Following an investigation of the incident, the Myanmar military sentenced seven soldiers to 10 years in prison. The Inn Din killings came after militant attacks in late August 2017 were answered by an army-led campaign of terror that included indiscriminate killings, rape, torture, and arson in what Myanmar calls a counterinsurgency against Muslim terrorists. More than 700,000 Rohingya fled to Bangladesh, where most remain in squalid refugee camps. Reported by Win Ko Ko Latt and Khin Khin Ei for RFA's Myanmar Service. Translated by Ye Kaung Myint Maung and Khin Maung Nyane. Written in English by Paul Eckert. Authorities in northern Myanmars Kachin state have arrested four Chinese nationals for illegally entering the country and working on banana plantations, bringing the number of Chinese in police custody to nine in the last two weeks, a police official said. During surprise security checks, officials from Kachin states Forestry Department and Immigration Department discovered two Chinese from the Nantwah Generation Star company in the Nantwah forest reserve and another two from the Malikha Dragon company in the Washaung forest reserve without permission and arrested them, said officer Kyaw Soe at the Waingmaw Police Station. The Forestry Department found them there and filed a case, he told RFAs Myanmar Service. Two were found in the Nantwah forest reserve and another two in the Washaung forest reserve on May 25 for a total of four. Surprise checks by [officials from] the forestry and immigration departments discovered that they were intruding in the reserve forests and have filed a case under Section 40(a) of the Forestry Act of 40(a) at the moment. The four will also face charges under Myanmars immigration law, sources said without elaborating. The investigation is still underway, and authorities are examining evidence, Kyaw Soe said. Officials of the companies for which the detained Chinese nationals were working were unavailable for comment. An administrator of Nantwah village who declined to give his name said there are dozens of Chinese nationals working on banana plantations in the area, and that their vehicles have disrupted the flow of local traffic. There are about 40 to 50 in Nantwah alone, he told RFA. It may be up to hundreds if every banana plantation is counted. Some have been granted permission by the government [to work in Myanmar], but some are here without permission, he added. About half of them are [here] illegally. Earlier this month, forestry department officials filed charges against five other Chinese nationals and their company manager for allegedly expanding a banana plantation into protected forests, village administrative and police officials told RFA at the time. The six people from Jinghphaw Nadi Company had been operating the plantations near Aung Myae Thar No. 1 and No. 2 villages in Waingmaw township since 2018 and had expanded their growing areas by more than 300 acres in the two communities, illegally occupying part of a forest reserve, they said. The company manager was released on bail for health reasons, but the others remain in the township jail. Controversial China-backed tissue-culture banana plantations, banned in Laos and Thailand, began appearing in Kachin state about 12 years ago and have quickly expanded in Waingmaw township, which lies alongside the Irrawaddy River near the state capital Myitkyina. A research report issued earlier this year by the local NGO Land Security and Environmental Conservation Network indicated that that there are more than 100,000 acres of banana plantations in the states Myitkyina and Bhamo districts. State residents frequently complain about the downsides of banana cultivation, including the loss of farmland, deforestation, the destruction of natural habitats, low wages for laborers, and damage to their social and economic well-being. Earlier this year, Kyaw Kyaw Win, Kachin states minister of agriculture, livestock, and irrigation, told RFA that officials had not issued permits for banana plantations, although some companies had planted banana trees on fallow land and on farmland where fruit trees are allowed to be grown. At the time, he also said he would submit a proposal to the state government to set up a special committee whose subcommittees would look into illegal plantations and their impacts on the environment and local labor. Leaders of a nationwide network that wants the Myanmar government to permanently suspend the controversial Myitsone Dam project speak at a press conference in Yangon, May 28, 2019. Credit: RFA Network demands Myitsone documents A newly formed nationwide network that wants the government to permanently suspend the controversial Myitsone Dam, a Chinese hydropower project located in Kachin state, called on the ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) government to make public within a month the contract between the Chinese company building the dam and the former military junta that ruled the country when the deal was struck. At a press conference in Yangon, the network warned the government that if peoples expectations were not met by canceling the Chinese dam project, the NLD would not see another term in office when the next general election is held in 2020. If the ruling government fails to fulfill the peoples calls for the cancellation of this dam project once and for all, the party will lose public support in the upcoming election, and it will not have an opportunity for another term, farmworkers rights activist Zaw Yum, spokesman of the nationwide network, said during the press conference. The NLD government, which has said that it will disclose any deal it reaches concerning the dam, has a responsibility to make public the terms of the original deal, he added. It is totally unacceptable that the government is failing to honor its promises on this issue, Zaw Yum said. If the ruling government uses this issue as leverage again to win the upcoming election, it will be an utter manipulation of and dishonesty toward the voters. It will be apparent that it only works to fulfill the interests of a handful of people rather than that of all the people. Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Su Kyi told voters during the campaign for the 2015 general election that once the NLD party formed a government, it would issue the contract terms of the Myitsone Dam project as one of its first actions. But the NLD government, now in its fourth of a five-year term, has yet to fulfill the promise. The members of the network said it would still not be acceptable if the ruling government chose to issue the terms later instead of within a month closer to the election date. Attorney Kyi Myint, who advises the network on the termination of the Myitsone Dam project, stressed that the ruling NLD government should stop ignoring public demands and cancel the project once and for all. We are exercising our rights and responsibilities as members of civil society as guaranteed in Article 390 of the constitution, he said. Far from recognizing us, now the ruling government is ignoring us and trying to undermine our voices, he said. If it keep acting like this, it will see the consequences in the 2020 election. Conflict with national missions Formed on May 2, the nationwide network comprises more than 100 activists, scholars, authors, environmental conservationists, and prominent individuals. Aung Soe Myint, another network spokesman, noted that the groups activities focus solely on the permanent cancellation of the dam project, and not other Chinese-backed infrastructure projects that are part of Chinas massive Belt and Road Initiative, such as a deep sea port in Rakhine state and road networks throughout Myanmar. We are focused only on the Myitsone Dam project, he said. We have no relations with groups protesting other projects in the country. Members of the network also said that if the government allowed construction of the hydropower project to resume, despite widespread opposition and protests, it would pose a direct conflict with other national missions such as national reconciliation and ending internal armed conflict, forging unity and equality among ethnic groups, ensuring peace and economic development in poor regions, and the ultimate goal of establishing a federal union. The network said it will submit written appeals for the release of Myitsone Dam contract terms to President Win Myint, the countrys vice presidents, Aung San Suu Kyi, the speakers of the upper and lower houses of the national parliament, government ministers, and all regional and state chief ministers. Begun in December 2009, the hydropower project was put on hold by former President Thein Sein in 2011 after public protests over potential flooding and other environmental impacts as well as anger that 90 percent of its electricity would be exported to China. Suspension of the project has dismayed China, which has been pushing Aung San Suu Kyis NLD government to allow the U.S. $3.6 billion, 6,000-megawatt project to resume, arguing that Chinese companies have already invested heavily in it. A week ago, Hong Liang, Chinas outgoing ambassador to Myanmar, expressed serious concern over the project and said that the two countries had agreed to find a solution that would not damage bilateral relations, the Myanmar Times reported. Reported by Elizabeth Jangma and Thant Zin Oo for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Nandar Chann and Ye Kaung Myint Maung. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin. KABUL -- Afghanistan's authorities say they have launched an investigation into allegations that some members of President Ashraf Ghani's administration have given out government posts in exchange for sexual favors. Jamshid Rasuli, a spokesman for the attorney generals office, told reporters in Kabul on May 28 that a team had been formed to investigate the claims. The accusations were made by General Habibullah Ahmadzai, a former senior adviser to Ghani, in a TV interview last week. Ahmadzai, who did not provide any evidence, said "circles" inside the Afghan presidential palace were asking women for sexual favors -- offering coveted government jobs in return. The allegations have prompted condemnation in Kabul and Afghans have taken to social media to demand a probe. Haroon Chakhansuri, a spokesman for Ghani, said that the accusations were "false and baseless." And Nargis Nehan, the acting minister of mines and petroleum, tweeted on May 25: "I can say with confidence that these allegations are baseless." In an interview with Khurshid TV on May 23, Ahmadzai said that "people were working systematically to promote adultery in the [presidential] palace." Rasuli said investigators had asked Ahmadzai to deliver any evidence he may have to support his claims by May 30. With reporting by AFP Dublin, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "China Pharmaceutical Packaging Industry Report, 2019-2025" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. In China, the high-end pharmaceutical packaging market is currently carved up by multinational corporations, typically BD, Gerresheimer, SCHOTT, Nipro and Amcor; Chinese companies just focus on low- and mid-end markets, but they tend to move toward the high-end by lavishing more on research and development as pharmaceutical packaging standards grow stricter. A total of over 1,500 Chinese pharmaceutical packaging companies fall into three kinds: a handful of pharmaceutical giants that concentrate on independent production, like Sichuan Kelun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.; players which not only work on pharmaceutical packaging but have offerings for food, healthcare products and consumer goods packaging, such as Shandong Linuo Technical Glass Co., Ltd., Heilongjiang Tongyu Pharmaceutical Packaging Co., Ltd. and Shanghai Haishun New Pharmaceutical Packaging Co., Ltd.; and those committing themselves to the R&D, production and sales of pharmaceutical packaging materials, for instance, Shandong Pharmaceutical Glass Co., Ltd., Guizhou Chienyeh Pharmaceutical Packaging Co., Ltd., Shanxi Hongguang Medicine Packaging Co., Ltd. and Hebei First Rubber Medical Technology Co., Ltd.. In the lowly concentrated pharmaceutical packaging market of China, even the pharmaceutical glass bellwether Shandong Pharmaceutical Glass Co., Ltd. takes a tiny share of 2.4% in 2018. China's pharmaceutical packaging industry holds the following trends: New types of pharmaceutical packaging materials emerge. China has built a standard system for the pharmaceutical industry over the years. The country pays more and more attention to the stability of pharmaceutical packaging materials during the drug storage period, and safety when used. Under this background, new types of green, degradable and easy-to-use pharmaceutical packaging materials and vessels are in the palmy days. The industry is becoming more concentrated. Mergers and acquisitions among pharmaceutical packaging companies occurred frequently in recent years, thanks to favorable policies like the Guidance on Accelerating the Merger and Reorganization of Enterprises in Key Industries. For instance, Shandong Pharmaceutical Glass Co., Ltd. acquired Sichuan Mianzhu Chengxin Pharmaceutical Glass Co. Ltd.; Anhui BBCA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. acquired Chengdu PUSH Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.; China Jianyin Investment Ltd. (JIC) acquired SGD Pharma; and Guizhou Chienyeh Pharmaceutical Packaging Co., Ltd. acquired Nanchong Sanying Medicinal Packaging Material Co., Ltd., Accordingly, Chinese pharmaceutical packaging market is increasingly concentrated. Neutral borosilicate products substitute for low borosilicate products. As people lead a better life, they require better quality of pharmaceutical packaging materials. A growing number of companies have applied international standard-based neutral borosilicate glass. Several companies including Shandong Pharmaceutical Glass Co., Ltd., Chongqing Zhengchuan Glass Co., Ltd., Cangzhou Four Stars Glass Co., Ltd., Anhui Huaxin Medicinal Glass Products Co., Ltd., Baoji Tongli Pharmaceutical Glass Co., Ltd. and Ningbo Zhengli Pharmaceutical Packing Co., Ltd. have been approved to roll out their neutral borosilicate glass products. Driven by companies that have passed consistency evaluation, neutral borosilicate products will become an alternative to low borosilicate products in China. The injection packaging materials field alone will see RMB3 billion to RMB9 billion be replaced. China Pharmaceutical Packaging Industry Report, 2019-2025 highlights the following: China pharmaceutical packaging industry (development status, market size, competitive pattern, import & export, market segments, downstream demand, and development trend) 4 foreign companies (operation, pharmaceutical packaging business, and development in China) 16 Chinese companies (operation, pharmaceutical packaging business, and forecast). Key Topics Covered: 1 Overview 1.1 Definition 1.2 Classification 1.3 Industry Chain 2 Chinese Pharmaceutical Packaging Industry 2.1 Status Quo 2.2 Market Size 2.3 Competitive Landscape 2.3.1 Foreign Companies 2.3.2 Chinese Companies 2.4 Import & Export 2.4.1 Import 2.4.2 Export 2.4.3 Comparison between Unit Prices of Imports and Exports 2.5 Market Segments 2.5.1 Medicinal Glass Packaging 2.5.2 Medicinal Plastic Packaging 2.5.3 Medicinal Rubber Packaging 2.5.4 Composite Packaging Materials 2.6 Downstream Demand 2.6.1 Vaccine 2.6.2 Blood Product 2.6.3 Insulin 2.6.4 Heparin 2.7 Development Trends 2.7.1 Population Aging and Two-child Policy Conduce to the Development of Pharmaceutical Industry 2.7.2 Favorable Policies Promote the Development of Pharmaceutical Packaging Industry 2.7.3 Rapid Development of Biological Agents is in Favor of Pharmaceutical Packaging Industry 2.7.4 Neutral Borosilicate Pharmaceutical Glass Tube Will Substitute for Low Borosilicate Products Gradually 2.7.5 New Pharmaceutical Packaging Materials Grow Up 2.7.6 Pharmaceutical Packaging Industry Concentration Gets Improved Further 2.7.7 Injection Packaging Materials Tend to be Neutral Borosilicate 3 Foreign Companies 3.1 Becton, Dickinson and Company 3.1.1 Profile 3.1.2 Operation 3.1.3 Revenue Structure 3.1.4 Pharmaceutical Packaging Business 3.1.5 Development in China 3.2 Gerresheimer AG 3.3 SCHOTT AG 3.4 Nipro Medical Corporation 4 Chinese Companies 4.1 Shandong Pharmaceutical Glass Co, Ltd. 4.1.1 Profile 4.1.2 Operation 4.1.3 Revenue Structure 4.1.4 Gross Margin 4.1.5 R&D and Investment 4.1.6 Development Strategy 4.2 Sichuan Kelun Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd. 4.3 Guizhou Chienyeh Pharmaceutical Packaging Co, Ltd. 4.4 Shandong Weigao Group Medical Polymer Co, Ltd (WEGO) 4.5 Hongguang Medicine Packaging Company 4.6 Tongyu Pharmaceutical Packaging Co, Ltd. 4.7 Linuo Glassworks Group 4.8 Shanghai Haishun New Pharmaceutical Packaging Co, Ltd. 4.9 Chongqing Zhengchuan Glass Co, Ltd 4.10 Hebei First Rubber Medical Technology Co, ltd 4.11 J.S. Yunkang Officinal Package Co, Ltd 4.12 Shanghai Jiatian Pharmaceutical Packaging Co, Ltd 4.13 Cangzhou four stars glass co, ltd. 4.14 Lindu yao yong bao zhuang 4.15 Global Printing 4.16 Jiangsu Hualan New Pharmaceutical Material Co, Ltd. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/ic0e2g Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. NUR-SULTAN -- Pressed for information about what relatives and activists say is a crackdown on indigenous, mostly Muslim ethnic groups in China's northwestern province of Xinjiang, the Chinese ambassador to Kazakhstan angrily denied any wrongdoing by Beijing. In a heated exchange with journalists in the Kazakh capital, Nur-Sultan, on May 28, Ambassador Zhang Xiao rejected the allegation as "false information." China has come under intense criticism for putting more than 1 million of them in "reeducation centers," which rights activists say are mass internment camps -- an accusation Beijing has consistently denied. The issue is particularly sensitive in Kazakhstan, which borders Xinjiang, because ethnic Kazakhs are among the groups said to be targeted by the crackdown. "The situation there is stable and normal. Measures conducted in Xinjiang are exclusively about fighting against radicalism and extremism and have nothing to do with Kazakhstan," Zhang told reporters. 'Shrouded In Secrecy' As journalists raised concerns over the fate of naturalized Kazakh citizens relatives in Xinjiang, Zhang became irritated and interrupted the reporters. "Where did you get that information from, can you tell me?... I just want to state here that all those [reports] are disinformation! Did I answer all your questions?" Zhang said before putting an end to the briefing. In August last year, a UN human rights panel cited "credible reports" that more than 1 million people were being held in counterextremism centers in Xinjiang and another 2 million had been forced into "reeducation camps," raising concerns that the region had turned into a "massive internment camp shrouded in secrecy." The mass detention targeted Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and other mostly Muslim groups such as Kyrgyz, Tajiks, and Hui, also known as Dungans. In recent months, several demonstrations protesting against Chinas policies in Xinjiang were held in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia's Republic of Tatarstan. China is a major trading partner for neighboring Kazakhstan, where authorities and state-controlled media have generally avoided the issue. During a visit to Beijing in March, Kazakh Foreign Minister Beibut Atamkulov said his country "understands and supports the measures taken in Xinjiang to tackle terrorism, separatism, and extremism. The same month, Kazakh police detained a naturalized Kazakh citizen born in Xinjiang who has campaigned on behalf of ethnic Kazakhs in China, and charged him with inciting ethnic hatred. TASHKENT -- German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev have discussed bilateral cooperation in the Uzbek capital on the second day of Steinmeier's three-day official visit to Central Asia's most populous country. Mirziyoev said after the talks on May 28 that Steinmeier's visit "will contribute to the further development of bilateral ties between the two countries." Steinmeier expressed support for the course that the former Soviet republic was taking, saying that Berlin was "following the political, economic, and social change under your leadership with much respect and sympathy." "Germany wants to encourage and support you to continue resolutely along this path," he added. Steinmeier is accompanied by his wife and a German business delegation on his trip, which began on May 27. The visit is seen as part of an effort to reinforce Uzbekistan's path to reform after Mirziyoev came to power in 2016 and to end many years of relative isolation for the Central Asian country under the longtime autocratic leadership of Islam Karimov. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called on Steinmeier to stress during his visit that the "positive changes" in Uzbekistan under Mirziyoev have been "small steps on a long road." HRW said areas where further reforms are needed into the "vast" powers that Uzbekistan's security services have retained and "persistent reports that arbitrary detention, torture, and other ill-treatment in custody are widespread." Mirziyoev, a former prime minister, became president after Karimov's death was announced in September 2016. Since then, Mirziyoev has taken steps to bolster Uzbekistan's struggling economy and to implement reforms in Uzbekistan -- where rights abuses had been widespread under Karimov. On the morning of May 29, Steinmeier is scheduled to "discuss current developments in Uzbekistan with representatives of civil society," according to a statement on Steinmeier's website. The German president also plans on May 29 to meet students of Urganch State University in western Uzbekistan and visit the historic city of Khiva. With reporting by dpa Human Rights Watch (HRW) is calling on the government of Kyrgyzstan to do far more to stop violence against women and girls, saying that weak enforcement of legislation aimed to prevent abuse and punish the perpetrators leaves half the population of the Central Asian country at risk. New York-based HRW issued the call in a statement on May 28, a year and a day after the stabbing death of university student Burulai Turdaaly Kyzy by a man who authorities said abducted her for forced marriage caused an outcry and brought the issues of so-called "bride kidnapping" and violence against women and girls to the fore. "A year after [Turdaaly Kyzy's] murder, it's outrageous that the government hasn't done everything possible to enforce laws that could save women's and girls' lives," Hillary Margolis, women's rights researcher at HRW, said in a statement. "Passing laws is a good first step, but it is far from enough to ensure real protection." "Kyrgyzstan adopted a strengthened Family Violence Law in 2017, but weak enforcement of laws on violence against women and girls leaves them in jeopardy," the rights group said. It said that police registered 2,701 cases of domestic violence in the first three months of 2019 and that two-thirds of the cases involved physical violence, but that data on bride kidnappings and on injuries or deaths resulting from domestic violence were missing. HRW said that in addition to the 2017 legislation, a law passed in 2016 aimed to curb child marriage and forced marriage and the government introduced a provision criminalizing domestic violence in January 2019. But the group, which conducted research in Kyrgyzstan in April, said that "inadequate enforcement of protection orders in cases of domestic abuse limits their effectiveness, as does uneven enforcement of laws to address bride kidnapping and child and forced marriage. Scarce government support for services for survivors of abuse leaves women and girls without a safety net." In December, a Bishkek court convicted Mars Bodoshev, 29, of abducting and murdering Turdaaly Kyzy, who was 20 when she was stabbed to death at a precinct house after police who detained the two left them alone in a room together. Bodoshev was sentenced to 20 years in prison, a co-defendant was sentenced to seven years, and more than 20 police officers were punished. The practice of "bride kidnapping" is illegal in Kyrgyzstan, and lawmakers raised the maximum prison sentence from three to 10 years in 2012, but prosecutions have been rare. With reporting by RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service War criminals or war heroes? For Ilir Bytyqi, whose three brothers were killed in Serbia in 1999, the distinction has become so lost that it makes him nauseous. Literally. So, as the June 17 hearing at the UN war crimes court on the early release of Vlastimir Djordjevic approaches, the 46-year-old U.S. citizen born to ethnic Albanian parents once again feels uneasy. Bytyqi, and many others, fear that Djordjevic will become the latest war criminal to have joined Serbian politics after serving a sentence thanks in part to the government and media, which have promoted them as heroes. In an attempt to avoid that, the family has started a campaign to prevent Djordjevic from being granted an early release at a June 17 hearing at the Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals (MICT), which has taken over from the former International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY). An online petition with more than 1,700 signatures asks the court to keep Djordjevic behind bars until he demonstrates "rehabilitation" and "substantial cooperation with authorities in revealing where any more mass graves may be located." 'Treated Like Heroes' "I'm sick of war criminals being treated like heroes," he says of Djordjevic's possible release and what could follow. "Djordjevic ordered my brothers kidnapped and taken to a site where he had recently dug a mass grave for 75 people. He is responsible for my brothers' murders and should not be granted early release until he shows he is reformed." Djordjevic was convicted in 2011 of crimes against humanity and war crimes against Kosovar Albanians in 1999, including organizing the transfer of bodies and interments in Serbia and a subsequent cover-up. He has not admitted guilt in the killings. Ylli, Agron, and Mehmet Bytyqi, all U.S. citizens like Ilir, headed to their parents' homeland, Kosovo, to fight against Serbian forces in the then-autonomous province's battle for independence during the bloody breakup of the former Yugoslavia. Though the war was over, the three were arrested one night in 1999 after they crossed an unmarked border line into Serbian territory. They were taken into custody and eventually sentenced for illegally crossing the border. According to Serbian court records, the brothers were immediately arrested again as they left prison and transported to a police training center where they were executed on July 9, 1999. Two years later, their bodies, and those of dozens of other Kosovars, were discovered on the top of a mass grave in Serbia. The bodies had been burned in a mass fire. 'Adding Injury To The Wounds' Ilir and his family say court documents from the ICTY show Djordjevic ordered the extrajudicial detention and eventual deaths of the brothers, and then was directly involved in covering up the mass murder of thousands of Kosovars. "In our own family's case, Djordjevic has admitted to ordering Ylli, Agron, and Mehmetto be detained and taken to the active crime scene at Petrovo Selo -- all without judicial involvement," the family says in a letter to the MICT. Estimates put the number of missing from the conflict at around 1,650, two-thirds of whom are ethnic Albanians. The remainder are Serbs and Roma. The early release of Djordjevic, who was sentenced by the ICTY in 2011 for "participating in a joint criminal enterprise in 1999, whose aim was to change the ethnic balance of Kosovo to ensure Serbian dominance in the territory" has raised fears that he will be elevated from criminal to hero in Serbia. Many critics say Serbian leaders still treat the Balkan wars as a series of civil wars and ignore the role played by Belgrade in fomenting them. Even worse, says Gjon Bucaj, former head of the Pan-Albanian Federation of America, the release of convicted war criminals in Serbia has often been accompanied by their rehabilitation by authorities in the public eye. "The release of criminals like this one adds injury to the wounds of their victims who were murdered, massacred, had their throats slit -- many are not accounted for yet after 20 years, thousands were raped, while criminals are treated like heroes and even hold high public positions," he says. The Bytyqi family has accused Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic of repeatedly breaking promises to resolve the case and of refusing to keep the family up to date with the investigation. Vucic has rejected the accusations and reiterated on May 28 in parliament his long-standing position that "there is no evidence of who committed the murder" of the brothers. The chief editor of Sputnik's Lithuanian branch has been kicked out of the Baltic nation amid growing concerns in the West over Russian state media influence. Marat Kasem was stopped by Lithuanian border guards after landing at Vilnius airport from Moscow on May 28 and later deported to Latvia, the state-run Sputnik news agency said on its website. Kasem, who holds Latvian citizenship, was banned from entering Lithuania for five years, the Russian news agency said. The country considers Kasem a "threat to national security," according to a document he posted online from the Lithuanian State Border Guard Service. In a video post from Riga after the incident, Kasem said he was detained for about six hours at Vilnius airport and questioned by authorities. He said he was asked whether he had any connections to the Russian secret services, among other things. "It is surprising how much [Lithuanian authorities] fear their own shadow," he said in the video post. Lithuania's border service could not be immediately reached for comment. Lithuania faces tense relations with Russia. The Baltic country has arrested and charged several people in recent months accused of spying for Moscow. Western politicians and intelligence officers have increasingly expressed concern over Russian state-owned media outlets, including Sputnik and RT, formerly known as Russia Today, calling them propaganda tools of the Kremlin. The U.S. Department of Justice forced RT America to register as a foreign agent in 2017 after U.S. intelligence agencies said the news agency contributed to a Kremlin campaign of interference in the 2016 presidential election. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. A Russian boy who learned to love hotels during frequent visits to doctors far away, has become a hotelier in his remote hometown, thanks to his mother. Russia's Economy Ministry has proposed restricting access to the Unified Land Registry, or EGRN, a database widely used by journalists and anticorruption campaigners to shed light on the lifestyles of the country's elite. The bill, which has been published on the parliament's website, would introduce fines of up to 400,000 rubles for publishing, sharing, or selling information from the registry. It will be debated in parliament following a public appraisal. Critics say the legislation falls in line with attempts to restrict access to information in the wake of several high-profile investigations into official corruption, and note previous attempts by authorities to restrict access to sensitive data capable of revealing the undeclared assets of powerful figures. "This bill strictly regulates the rights of those who possess information to use it freely and distribute it as they wish," Ilya Shumanov, deputy director of Transparency International Russia, told the newspaper Vedomosti, adding that anyone who accesses information that doesn't concern state secrets from a government registry should be allowed to legally distribute it. 'Duplicate Websites' In 2015, the Federal Security Service backed legislation that would anonymize the personal data of real-estate owners, but it foundered in parliament after the Justice Ministry warned that it would endanger property rights. In 2017, the Duma passed amendments that limited the publication of officials' details and those of their family members to instances when their express permission was granted. A description of the new bill on the parliamentary portal presents the initiative as a response to complaints from Russian citizens about "duplicate websites" that allegedly present fake information acquired from the EGRN register. But Georgy Alburov, a lawyer at the Anti-Corruption Foundation run by opposition leader Aleksei Navalny who first drew public attention to the new bill, believes it's aimed at clamping down on groups like his. "It's clearly written there that the handover and publication of data is forbidden," he told Vedomosti. "The Anti-Corruption Foundation publishes EGRN data in its entirety." One example is the foundation's 2017 investigation into Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, titled He's Not Dimon To You. It was a catalyst for mass protests against corruption that erupted across Russia that March, and the bulk of the data cited was acquired from Russian state registers. In 2017, the Supreme Court rejected a complaint by Navalny against the actions of the state registry, which anonymized the names of Prosecutor-General Yury Chaika's sons following an Anti-Corruption Foundation's probe into their business dealings. Alburov pointed out proposed legislation apparently released in conjunction with the new bill that would substantially raise the costs of acquiring data from the registry and set a lower limit of 50,000 records, at a cost of over 1 million rubles ($15,500). "That means everyone who doesnt have a million can't use the service -- that's a blow to journalists and to business," Alburov said. Shumanov appeared to agree. "The new bill is largely aimed at private services selling EGRN records, which would compete in competition with the official register," he told Vedomosti. "But considering the unpredictable nature of Russian law enforcement I wouldnt be surprised if average citizens are harmed through this." Russia has summoned Spain's ambassador to Moscow after acting Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell referred to the country as an "old enemy." The Russian Foreign Ministry said it had summoned Ambassador Fernando Valderrama Pareja on May 28, days after Borrell told Spanish newspaper El Periodico: "Our old enemy, Russia, is once again saying, 'here I am,' and has returned as a threat. Borrell's "unfriendly" comment "damages the relations between Spain and Russia, the mutual perception of bilateral relations as friendly, based on a partnership and mutually-beneficial," the Russian ministry said. Spain's Foreign Ministry has not immediately commented. Russia's relations with the West have soured since Russia's takeover of Ukraines Crimea region in March 2014. Based on reporting by Reuters, TASS, and Interfax A Russian blogger who posted a meme mocking President Vladimir Putin has been charged under a controversial new law penalizing "disrespect toward the authorities." Sergei Komandirov, a blogger in the western city of Smolensk, posted a photograph of Putin and a verse that read "Every citizen knows who is D[...]ck No. 1." Komandirov's post was a form of protest over the conviction of Yury Kartyzhev, a man in the northwestern region of Novgorod who was the first person to be found guilty under the new law. Kartyzhev was fined 30,000 rubles ($470) for two posts mocking Putin on March 31, two days after the law came into effect. Under the law, insulting the authorities or state symbols is punishable by up to 15 days in jail and by a fine of up to 100,000 rubles ($1,570). A repeat violation may lead to a 200,000-ruble ($3,140) fine. On May 27, a key aide of opposition politician Aleksei Navalny, Leonid Volkov, who is serving a 20-day jail sentence over an unsanctioned rally in September 2018, was charged with disrespect of the authorities for criticizing Kartyzhev's conviction on Twitter. Komandirov also posted a comment that read: "Check it out, they will not convict you, they do not have guts to convict everyone. Therefore, go and flash-mob." With reporting by Mediazona and 7x7 A former museum director who has conducted research at a mass grave containing the remains of thousands of people shot under Soviet dictator Josef Stalin has been convicted of having sex with a minor and sentenced to nine years in prison. Sergei Koltyrin, who was convicted and sentenced along with co-defendant Yury Nosov on May 27 by a court in the Karelia region town of Medvezhegorsk in northwestern Russia, is the second historian involved in research at the Sandarmokh mass grave site to be prosecuted on charges related to the alleged sexual abuse of minors. The trials have raised suspicion that the authorities are seeking to silence Russians who labor to uncover evidence of Stalin's crimes. Koltyrin and Nosov, who were arrested in October and tried behind closed doors, were both found guilty of corrupting an underage boy and having sex with an underage boy. Nosov was sentenced to 11 years in prison. The convictions came as the second trial of historian Yury Dmitriyev, who discovered and began documenting the Sandarmokh site in the1990s, continues behind closed doors in the Karelian capital, Petrozavodsk. Dmitriyev heads the Karelia branch of the Moscow-based human rights group Memorial, whose decades-long efforts to expose the extent of Stalin's crimes have met with opposition under Russian President Vladimir Putin. Dmitriyev was arrested in 2016 on child-pornography charges based on photographs of his foster daughter that authorities found on his computer. He proclaimed his innocence, contending that the images were not pornographic -- but were meant to document the girl's development after his family took her in because of concerns about her health -- and that the charges were intended to interrupt his work investigating Stalin-era crimes. The Petrozavodsk City Court acquitted Dmitriyev in April 2018, but the Karelia Supreme Court upheld an appeal by prosecutors and ordered a new trial. The historian was rearrested in June 2018 and is currently on trial on the more severe charge of "violent acts of a sexual nature committed against a person under 14 years of age" -- again referring to his daughter. Koltyrin, who had been director of a local history museum in Medvezhegorsk museum since 1991, last year publicly criticized excavations being carried out around Sandarmokh by the Russian Military-Historical Society, which is headed by Culture Minister Vladimir Medinsky. Koltyrin and other critics contend that the new excavations, which are aimed at finding possible graves of World War II Red Army soldiers who were allegedly executed as prisoners of war by the Finnish military, are intended to revise the significance of the site and downplay Stalin's crimes against his own people. Under Putin, Stalin's image has been steadily rehabilitated to emphasize his role in industrializing the country and leading it to victory over Nazi Germany while downplaying the purges, forced collectivization, mass political repressions, deportations, and labor camps that characterized his decades in power. Putin has accused Russia's critics of using the "excessive demonization" of Stalin "to show that today's Russia carries some kind of birthmarks of Stalinism." Koltyrin and Nosov declined to comment to journalists following the hearing on May 27. A former lawyer for Koltyrin has said that the historian was pressured to renounce his services and use a state-appointed lawyer instead. Dublin, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Radiation Shielding and Monitoring: Technologies and Application Markets" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This report has been prepared in a simple, easy-to-understand format. Numerous tables and figures are included to illustrate current and future market scenarios. The report includes a detailed study of global and regional markets for various products and equipment involved in radiation monitoring and shielding, as well as the various applications for these products and equipment in different fields and industries, with reasons given for variations in the growth of the industry in certain regions. The Report Includes: Detailed overview of the global markets for various products and equipment involved in radiation monitoring and shielding and the various applications for these products and equipment in different fields and industries Analyses of the global market trends with data from 2017 and 2018, estimates for 2019, and projections of compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) through 2024 Quantitative analysis of the global and regional markets for radiation shielding and monitoring products and equipment by various end user segments such as forms of ionizing radiation, methods of radiation detection, radiation protection equipment and their sub-types, and applications of radiation detection Information on various types of radiation shielding materials, including their properties, uses and the future market outlook Discussion of technological, regulatory, and economic trends that are affecting the market Patent review and new developments in radiation monitoring and shielding products and equipment industry Company profiles of major manufacturers of radiation shielding and monitoring equipment, including Ametek Inc., Rapiscan Systems, S.E. International Inc., Scionix Holland B.V., IBA Dosimetry GmbH, Smiths Detection Inc., and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. Key Topics Covered: Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Summary Chapter 3 Technology Radiation Sources of Radiation Classification of Radiation Alpha Particles Beta Particles Neutron Particles Gamma Rays X-Rays Causes for Increase in Radiation Levels Electromagnetic Radiation Medical Radiation Radiation Exposure Measurement Exposure Situations Acute and Chronic Exposure Methods of Radiation Detection Effects of Radiation Measurement of Radiation Radiation Detection and Measurement Devices Portable Radiation Detectors Personal Radiation Dosimeters Radiation Monitoring Systems Radiation Contamination and Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Nuclear Radiation Detection, Measurement and Monitoring Classification of Dosimetry Personal Dosimetry Personal Dosimeter Types Non-Personal Dosimetry Area Dosimeters Gas-Filled Radiation Detectors Solid-State Detectors Dosimeter Applications Hospitals and Medical Care Nuclear Power Plants and Domestic Exposure Applications of Radiation Detection and Monitoring Homeland Security Applications of Radiation Detection Medical Applications of Radiation Detection Industrial Applications of Radiation Detection Laboratory Applications of Radiation Detection Military Applications of Radiation Detection Nuclear Power Applications of Radiation Detection Radiation Protection Components of Radiation Protection Basic Radiation Protection Measures Countermeasures to Prevent Radiation Protection Against Radioactive Hazards Radiation Protection Equipment Personal Radiation Protection Products and Equipment Radiation Shielding Factors for Determining Radiation Shielding Requirements Different Types of Radiation Shielding Radiation Shielding Requirements Gamma and X-Ray Shielding Neutron Shielding Alpha and Beta Particles Shielding Radiation Shielding Types Medical Radiation Shielding Medical Diagnostic Radiation Shielding Nuclear Radiation Shielding Medical Nuclear Shielding Electromagnetic Radiation Shielding Electromagnetic Shielding Applications Electromagnetic Radiation Shielding Types Radiation Shielding Materials Traditional Lead Shielding Lead Composite Shielding Non-Lead and Lead-Free Shielding Industrial Nuclear Shielding Electromagnetic Radiation Protection Clothing History of Radiation History of Medical Radiation Radiation Shielding History Government Regulation Covering Radiation and Exposure Chapter 4 Market by Technology Radiation Detection and Shielding Equipment Global Market for Radiation Detection and Shielding-Related Equipment Regional Markets for Radiation Detection and Shielding-Related Equipment Radiation Detection and Monitoring Segmentation of the Radiation Detection and Monitoring Market Global Market for Radiation Detection and Monitoring by Product Type Global Market for Personal Dosimeters by Product Type Global Market for Personal Dosimeters Based on Modality Global Market for Portable Dosimeters Global Market for Personal Dosimeters Based on Technology Regional Markets for Personal Dosimeters Global Market for Non-Personal Dosimeter Types Regional Markets for Non-Personal Dosimeters Global Market for Area Dosimeters Regional Markets for Area Dosimeters Global Market for Gas-Filled Radiation Detectors Global Market for Solid-State Detectors Global Market for Scintillation Detectors Global Market for Radiation Detection and Monitoring by Detection Method Global Market for Radiation Shielding, Safety and Protection Types Regional Markets for Radiation Shielding, Safety and Protection Products Global Market for Personal Protection Products and Equipment to Protect Against Radiation Regional Markets for Personal Protection Products and Equipment Global Market for Internal Contamination Safety and Protection Equipment Global Market for External Contamination Safety and Protection Equipment Global Market for Radiation Shielding Based on General Classification Global Market for Radiation Shielding Products and Equipment Types Regional Markets for Radiation Shielding Products and Equipment Global Market for Nuclear Radiation Shielding Products and Equipment Global Market for Medical Radiation Shielding Products and Equipment Drivers for the Medical Radiation Shielding Product and Equipment Market Market Segmentation for Medical Radiation Shielding Products and Equipment Global Market for Medical Radiation Shielding Products and Equipment Based on Product Type Global Market for Full-Body, Face and Hand Radiation Protection Products Global Market for Radiation Protection Glass Global Market for Radiation Shielding Textiles Global Market for Medical Radiation Shielding Products and Equipment Based on Solution Type Global Market for Electromagnetic Radiation Shielding Materials Chapter 5 Market by Application Global Market for Radiation Detection and Monitoring by Applications Global Market for Radiation Detection and Monitoring in Homeland Security Applications Global Market for Radiation Detection and Monitoring in Medical Applications Global Market for Radiation Detection and Monitoring in Industrial Applications Global Market for Radiation Detection and Monitoring in Laboratory Applications Global Market for Radiation Detection and Monitoring in Military Applications Global Market for Radiation Detection and Monitoring in Nuclear Power Applications Global Market for Dosimeter Applications Global Market for Gas-Filled Radiation Detector Applications Global Market for Solid-State Radiation Detector Applications Global Market for Scintillation Detector Applications Global Market for Nuclear Radiation Shielding Product and Equipment Applications Global Market for Medical Radiation Shielding Applications Global Market for Electromagnetic Radiation Shielding Applications Chapter 6 Patent Review and New Developments Importance of Patents New Radiation Shielding and Protection Products and Equipment Developed by Various Companies New Technique to Assess Radiation Exposure Instruments for Detecting Low-Level Radiation Magna Dense Loose Ballast for High-Density Concrete Radiation Shielding Concrete Grid Therapy SPRD SPECTRA: Dosimeter-Radiometer MKS-11GN RDS-31 Modular Radiation Survey Meter TELEPOLE 2 Telescopic Radiation Survey Meter Polymer Gel Dosimeter MKS-UM Multipurpose Dosimeter-Radiometer Gamma Dosimeter RADIAGEM 4000 Personal Portable Dose Rate and Survey Meter T-Flex Shielding Materials Tissue Equivalent Gel-Dosimeter Custom Lead-Shielded Carriers with Transportation Cart Polaris H Detector Handheld Radiation Camera PRD Cadmium Alarm Dosimeter DKS-02PN VeriFinder Handheld Radiation Detector FLIR IdentiFinder R200-GN Spectroscopic Personal Radiation Detector Thermo Scientific RadHalo Rapid Deployment Probe Thermo Scientific RadEye SPRD Personal Radiation Detector BANG Gels Bruker SVGps Radiation Survey Meter Wearable Radiation Detection Technology X2 Solo Product Line Aires Shield Pro Three-Dimensional Dosimetry System Chapter 7 Analysis of Market Opportunities Overview Factors Influencing the Increasing Need for Radiation Protection and Shielding Increasing Need for Radiation Protection and Shielding in Medical Field North American Market for Radiation Monitoring and Shielding Equipment European Market for Radiation Monitoring and Shielding Equipment Asia-Pacific Market for Radiation Monitoring and Shielding Equipment Rest of World Market for Radiation Monitoring and Shielding Equipment Mergers and Acquisitions in Radiation Monitoring and Shielding Products and Equipment Industry Chapter 8 Company Profiles A & L Shielding Inc. Aaronia Ag Alpha Pro Tech, Inc. Ametek Inc. Amray Medical Ansell Ltd. Ansell Microgard Ltd. Arktis Radiation Detectors Ltd. Arrow-Tech Inc. Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, India Atomtex Spe Autorite De Surete Nucleaire, France Bar-Ray Products Inc. Beijing Jlsun High-Tech Co., Ltd. Berkeley Nucleonics Corp. Berthold Technologies Gmbh & Co. Kg Bertin Technologies Sas Biodex Medical Systems Inc. Canberra Industries Inc. Carestream Health Inc. Centronic Ltd. Comecer S.P.A. Diacarta Inc. Dupont Protection Technologies Eckert & Ziegler Strahlen-Und Medizintechnik Ag Else Nuclear Srl Esco Technologies Inc. ETS-Lindgren L.P. European Atomic Energy Community Flir Systems Ab Fluke Biomedical Corp. Gaven Industries Global Partners In Shielding, Inc. Government of India Atomic Energy Commission Hartalega Holdings Berhad Health Physics Society Holland Shielding Systems Hologic Inc. Honeywell Analytics Inc. Hopewell Designs Inc. IBA Dosimetry Gmbh Infab Corp. International Atomic Energy Agency International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements International Commission on Radiological Protection International Medcom Inc. International Radiation Protection Association Ion Beam Applications Sa John Caunt Scientific Ltd. Kenex (Electro-Medical) Ltd. Kitagawa Industries Co., Ltd. Kromek Group Plc Laird Plc Lakeland Industries Inc. Lancs Industries, Inc. Landauer, Inc. Laurus Systems Inc. Leader Tech Inc. Lemer Pax Ludlum Measurements Inc. Marshield Radiation Shielding Products Mayco Manufacturing Llc Mcgrory Glass Inc. Metal Textiles Corp. Microgard Ltd. Mirion Technologies, Inc. Msa Safety Inc. National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements Nelco Inc. Nuclear Energy Agency Nuclear Regulatory Authority, U.K. Nuclear Shields B.V. Parker Chomerics Pitts Little Corp. Polimaster Ltd. Protech Medical Protect-Laserschutz Gmbh Protective Industrial Products Inc. Protecx Medical PTW Freiburg Gmbh Qingdao Dongwei Textile Co., Ltd. Qingdao Hengtong X-Silver Speciality Textiles Co., Ltd. Radiation Detection Company Inc. Radiation Monitoring Devices Inc. Radiation Protection Products Inc. Radiation Shield Technologies Radiation Shielding Inc. RAE Systems Inc. Rapiscans Systems Ray-Bar Engineering Corp. Redlen Technologies Inc. Royal Ten Cate Inc. RTP Company Inc. S.E. International Saphymo Sas Scionix Holland B.V. Shielding International Inc. Sioen Industries Nv Smiths Detection Inc. Society for Radiological Protection Soliani Emc Srl Sun Nuclear Corp. Supermax Corporation Berhad Swift Textile Metalizing Llc Swiss Shield Tech-Etch Inc. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. Top Glove Corporation Bhd Tracerco Ltd. Ultra Electronics Ultraray Radiation Protection Unfors Raysafe Ab United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation Veritas Medical Solutions Llc Worldwide Innovations & Technologies Inc. X-Z Lab Inc. Chapter 9 Appendix 1: List of Manufacturers Chapter 10 Appendix 2: Patents Chapter 11 Appendix 3: Organizations Involved in Radiation Protection European Atomic Energy Community Health Physics Society International Atomic Energy Agency Government of India Atomic Energy Commission Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, India International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements International Commission on Radiological Protection International Radiation Protection Association Society for Radiological Protection United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation Nuclear Energy Agency Nuclear Regulatory Authority, U.K. Autorite De Surete Nucleaire, France National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/c8lx2 Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. PRISTINA -- Serbia ordered its troops on high alert and its ally Russia accused Kosovo of provocation, following a Kosovar police operation in the countrys mainly ethnic-Serb north. Kosovar officials said that the May 28 raids targeted organized crime groups, but the operation also resulted in the detention of two members of the United Nations mission in Kosovo, including a Russian citizen who was later released. Authorities in Kosovo said more than 20 people were arrested, mainly police officers, and that 11 were injured during the operation. The raids fanned Kosovos already-tense relations with neighboring Serbia, which does not recognize the 2008 declaration of independence of its former province. The Kosovar police issued a statement saying those detained were suspected of being involved in "criminal activities." The statement also cited "armed resistance" by ethnic Serbs in Zubin Potok. The raids that involved special police forces were conducted in other municipalities including Mitrovica South and Skenderaj, they said. Police chief Rashit Qalaj told a news conference in Pristina that 19 police officers were among those arrested and suspected of smuggling goods into Kosovo. Eleven were ethnic Serbs, four ethnic Albanians, and four were Bosniaks, Qalaj said. Five police officers and six civilians were reported injured during the operation. In Belgrade, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic put Serbian troops in a state of full alert after learning about the operation, which he said was designed to intimidate minority Serbs. "If there is any serious threat to the order and life of people in the north of Kosovowe will protect our people," Vucic said. Serbia's official news agency, Tanjug, later reported that a column of Serbian Army vehicles packed with troops was heading toward the border with Kosovo. 'Great Concern' The United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) voiced "great concern" at the arrests of two of its staff members during the police operation, saying they sustained injuries that needed medical treatment. UNMIK later said that one of them, a Russian national, had been released. Kosovar President Hashim Thaci earlier said that a Russian citizen who was "camouflaged as a diplomat in order to prevent the police operation" was among those detained. Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj tweeted that Kosovo will "treat the case of the Russian 'diplomat' in accordance with international conventions." "Kosovo and regional countries are familiar with the Russian agenda to destabilize our region." Haradinaj added. The Russian Embassy in Belgrade in a statement expressed "outrage" at the Russian's detention, demanding that the man be freed immediately and that "all those responsible for this incident be held liable." In Moscow, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that Kosovo "provoked" Serbia by sending its police force to enter Serb-populated regions of the former Serbian province. Zakharova said that the operation "aims to stoke fears into the non-Albanian population" and "seize control over those areas by force." The European Union, UNMIK, and KFOR, the NATO-led peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, called for calm. European Commission spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said Brussels was calling for "utmost restraint" between the sides. Kocijancic also warned Kosovar authorities that police operations need "to reinforce and not weaken" EU-brokered efforts to normalize relations between Belgrade and Pristina. UNMIK urged "all parties to abide by the principles of rule of law and dignity for all to life and liberty, and to help restore calm and security in the area. KFOR said in a statement that the operation was only conducted by the Kosovar police and it did not involve the military. The peacekeeping mission also called on everybody to stay calm and not to escalate to the use of violence." Belgrade lost control over Kosovo, a region with an overwhelmingly dominant Albanian majority, after a NATO air campaign in 1999. Kosovo's ethnic Albanian majority declared independence from Serbia in February 2008. Although more than 110 countries recognize Kosovo, Belgrade and Moscow do not. The northern part of Kosovo remains in a state of lawlessness as the majority Serbs, backed by Belgrade, have rejected Pristina's jurisdiction over them. Organized crime thrives in the region, with suspects easily finding refuge from police across the porous boundary. With reporting by AP, Reuters, dpa, TASS, and Interfax Hosting Taliban delegates and Afghan politicians in an effort to promote itself as a peacemaker in Afghanistan, Russia has called for the complete withdrawal of international forces from the war-ravaged country. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke at a May 28 ceremony in Moscow marking what the government says is the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Russia and Afghanistan. The ceremony was followed by talks between the 14-member Taliban delegation and senior Afghan politicians, including candidates challenging President Ashraf Ghani in a presidential election due to be held in September. "We are calling for a total pullout of foreign forces from the country. We are calling on all Afghan sides to start talks as soon as possible involving a broad range of social and political forces," Lavrov said in welcoming the Taliban delegation, despite the fact that the militant movement is designated a terrorist organization in Russia. The remarks appeared aimed in part at the United States, which has thousands of troops in Afghanistan nearly two decades after leading an invasion that ousted the Taliban from power following the September 11, 2001 terror attacks on the United States. The Taliban was harboring Al-Qaeda leaders behind 9/11. "Russia is convinced that there is no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan," Lavrov said. "The only possible way...is to achieve peace by political and diplomatic means." The leader of the Taliban delegation, chief negotiator Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, said later that the group was "committed to peace" but "believes that, first of all, the obstacle on the way to peace must be removed, which means ending the occupation of Afghanistan." It was the first ever public media appearance for Baradar, a co-founder of the group who was jailed for years in Pakistan before his release last year. Among the Afghan politicians in attendance were ex-President Hamid Karzai; Atta Mohammad Noor, a powerful figure from northern Afghanistan; Ghani's former national-security adviser Hanif Atmar, who is contesting the presidential election; and Omar Zakhilwal, the ambassador to Pakistan. Two women were present, including lawmaker Fawzia Koofi. The meeting in Moscow comes amid a push by the United States for a peace settlement with the Taliban as fighting and attacks persist. Afghan officials said on May 28 that a a total of at least 23 members of the security forces were killed in two Taliban attacks targeting security checkpoints, one in western Ghor Province and one in Logar Province in the east. The meeting in Moscow comes amid a push by the United States for a peace settlement with the Taliban as fighting and attacks persist. Afghan officials said on May 28 that a total of at least 23 members of the security forces were killed in two Taliban attacks targeting security checkpoints, one in western Ghor Province and one in Logar Province in the east. Zalmay Khalilzad, the U.S. envoy seeking a peace deal with the Taliban, has held several rounds of talks with the militants in Qatar in recent months. The sides have made progress, but the Taliban has so far rejected the idea of direct negotiations with the Afghan government, and a summit planned for April in Qatar was canceled. U.S. and Taliban negotiators have been trying to find agreement on four interconnected issues: the Taliban breaking off ties with groups designated as terrorist by Washington; the timetable of a U.S. military withdrawal; a cease-fire in Afghanistan; and an intra-Afghan dialogue that would include the Taliban and government representatives. The sides have reached a draft agreement on the first two issues, but progress on the latter two have been slow. Advocates of talks like those held in Moscow say meetings between Taliban members and political figures not formally associated with the Afghan government are a way of laying groundwork for broader negotiations, but critics contend that they undermine the government and strengthen the Taliban. After the Soviet military withdrew from Afghanistan in 1989 following an unsuccessful nine-year war of occupation and the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, partly due to the cost of the conflict in terms of money and morale, Moscow had less involvement in Afghanistan. But Russia has been assuming a more prominent role in diplomacy over Afghanistan in recent years, as President Vladimir Putin has sought to increase its clout around the world. Taliban officials met a delegation of powerful Afghan power brokers in Moscow in November and February, but those talks did not include members of Ghani's government. The February talks marked the most significant contact between senior Afghan political figures and the militant group since the U.S.-led invasion in 2001. Khalilzad welcomed Russias efforts in the peace process, although some U.S. officials have said Moscow is promoting itself as a power broker in order to challenge the U.S.-backed peace process with the Taliban in Qatar. The United States has about 14,000 troops in Afghanistan as part of a 23,000-strong NATO-led mission that is training and assisting the governments security forces in their fight against Taliban militants and other extremist groups such as Islamic State and Al-Qaeda. With reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan, Reuters, TASS, Interfax, and AFP U.S. national-security adviser John Bolton says he has arrived in the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) for talks on "regional security matters." Bolton tweeted on May 28 that he had "just landed" in the U.A.E., adding that he was "looking forward to meeting with our Emirati allies tomorrow to discuss important and timely regional security matters. Boltons visit comes amid heightened tension between Iran and the United States and its allies in the Persian Gulf. Washington, a close ally of Iran's regional rivals Saudi Arabia and the U.A.E., blamed Tehran for an attack on oil tankers in the Gulf earlier this month. And Saudi Arabia accused Tehran of ordering drone strikes on oil installations in the kingdom that was claimed by Yemen's Shi'ite Huthi rebels. Iranian officials have denied the accusations. Regional summits are planned on May 30 and May 31 in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, as Riyadh attempts to further isolate Tehran. Earlier on May 28, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Tehran was ready to engage in dialogue with Gulf Arab countries in order to address regional tensions. Araqchi was speaking during a visit to the Qatari capital, Doha, the final stop in a tour that included Kuwait and Oman. Relations between Tehran and Washington have plummeted since U.S. President Donald Trump a year ago pulled the United States out of a 2015 nuclear accord between world powers and Iran that curbed the country's nuclear program in exchange for relief from crippling economic sanctions. Since then, Washington has reimposed sanctions, stepped up its rhetoric, and beefed up its military presence in the Middle East, citing "imminent threats" from Iran. Tehran has dismissed the U.S. allegations. With reporting by Reuters and AFP The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) says militant attacks on schools in Afghanistan increased almost threefold last year, making it increasingly difficult to ensure education for children in many parts of the country. The agency, which promotes education and children's rights, said in a report on May 28 that the number of attacks against Afghan schools jumped from 68 in 2017 to 192 in 2018. It was the first time since 2015 that a rise in attacks had been recorded. UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore said that "education is under fire in Afghanistan." "The senseless attacks on schools; the killing, injury, and abduction of teachers; and the threats against education are destroying the hopes and dreams of an entire generation of children," she said. More than 1,000 schools across the country remain closed because of security threats from militant groups like the Taliban and Islamic State, which have sought soft targets for attacks. Although Taliban leaders say they have shifted from their previous opposition to all forms of girls' education, the militant group faces regular accusations of shutting down schools run in a way they do not approve. UNICEF said the use of school buildings as voting stations during the 2018 parliamentary election might have been a factor behind the increased number of attacks. Although Afghanistan has a young and fast-growing population, UNICEF said on May 28 that about 3.7 million Afghan children -- nearly half of all school-age children -- were not enrolled in formal education. Based on reporting by Reuters and The New York Times Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has said Tehran is not seeking nuclear weapons as tensions escalate with the United States. Zarif's remarks on May 27 came the same day that U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington was not seeking regime change in Iran but wanted to ensure Tehran did not produce nuclear arms. Zarif said in a tweet that "we're not seeking nuclear weapons," adding that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had issued a fatwa "banning them." He said that U.S. "economic terrorism" was "hurting the Iranian people and causing tension in the region." Trump said the United States was "not looking regime change, we're looking for no nuclear weapons," following talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo, adding that he thought "we'll make a deal" with Tehran over its nuclear program. Relations between Tehran and Washington have plummeted since the United States a year ago pulled out of a 2015 nuclear accord between world powers and Iran that curbed the country's nuclear program in exchange for relief from crippling economic sanctions. Since then, Washington has reimposed sanctions, stepped up its rhetoric, and beefed up its military presence in the Middle East, prompting growing concerns of a possible military conflict with Iran. Based on reporting by Reuters and AP Employers who hire veterans immediately see the value that they bring to the workforce. As noted by the VEC, veterans generally have an accelerated learning curve, they already have received training and practice in leadership and teamwork is built into the manner in which they work. The military includes a diverse workforce, many have learned to navigate places and people foreign to their common network. As a result, they have lived the value of inclusion. After one of my clients hired a veteran, the CEO commented how if this person could fight in Iraq the pressure in her company wouldnt phase him. And it didnt. He thrives under pressure and understands the need for efficiency. Many resources are available for connecting employers with critical job openings to the veteran community who deserve the opportunity to transition into the civilian workforce. By tapping into these resources, candidates receive training to fill any skills gaps and employers are rewarded with talented former military employees and their spouses. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GOR:CSE, GOJ:Frankfurt, GORAF:OTCUS Goldrea Resources Corp. (Goldrea or the Company) is pleased to report that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Global Lab Analytics (GLA), is near completion with its construction of a testing laboratory in Irvine, California. In addition, the City of Irvine has scored GLA an 84 on its critical laboratory licensing application, with 70 being needed for acceptance. GLAs management will now interview with the City, and upon passing inspection of the facility, be able to obtain a license certificate to become operational. Final state approval will be the last step in this process. A temporary license will allow full testing while the State works through industry backlog. Because of the bottleneck in mandatory State testing of all cannabinoid products for impurities, heavy metals, pesticides, micro toxin, potency, etc., GLA expects that its roster of potential clients, many of whom have signed LOIs and MOUs, will lead to the laboratory running at full capacity once operations begin. Goldreas President and CEO Jim Elbert states: We are very pleased to have accomplished what we have, interacting closely with the City of Irvine. Our goal of entering the lucrative lab testing space is in sight, and we can now begin working toward a Change of Business with respect to our CSE listing. A flow-through financing is in progress to fund exploration of the Companys Cannonball property in BCs Golden Triangle. An additional private placement is being conducted to finance advancement of the GLA testing laboratory as well as to provide general working capital. For more information, please contact: James Elbert, President and CEO Telephone: (604) 559-7230 Email: jelbert@goldrea.com The CSE has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forward-looking statements, which are statements about the future based on current expectations or beliefs. For this purpose, statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements by their nature involve risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate or true. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by law. The Charlie Daniels Band is headed to Innsbrook After Hours on July 25. The legendary Southern rockers are known for their big hits "The Devil Went Down to Georgia" and "Uneasy Rider," among others. Tickets go on sale this Friday, May 31, at 10 a.m. at www.innsbrookafterhours.com or by phone at 1-800-514-ETIX (3849). A limited number of early bird general admission tickets will be available for one week for $16. Innsbrook After Hours is located at the SERVPRO of Richmond Pavilion, 4901 Lake Brook Dr. Glen Allen, VA. They got to visit with someone from Mexico City, Stefanovich said, referring to the homeless men who experienced the portal. Karen Manning is the curator for the Richmond portal. She is setting up some special programming, such as connecting multilingual students from the Oakland portal with high school students in the Richmond portal. The kids in Oakland come from over 30 countries and speak over 30 languages, she said. Theyll get to practice their English with Richmond teenagers. In March, Quill Theatre will be doing a performance of Jack & the Beanstalk inside the portal for Milwaukee and Oakland. There will be discussions with Berlin and Kigali, Rwanda, where citizens can talk about what monuments in their cities mean to them. Manning is also planning a class with Mexico City where visitors on both sides of the portal can draw from a live model. Organizers describe the portal experience as similar to running into someone on the street and stopping to have a deep, unexpected conversation. Its all about Noori, Sparks said. That is who he is. *** Potato skins hold little value in most restaurants. For Noori, however, those discarded peels are a monumental reminder of how far hes come. When Nooris mother had nothing to feed her eight children, shed scrounge for potato skins. Noori said shed cook them with chiles or whatever spices she could find. They were sustenance, nothing more. Now theyll be given a place of honor on the menu and will be used for good, as much as possible. If his restaurant is successful, he said, I may be able to serve the needy families that are still struggling back home with no food. We still have the same situation back home that I used to have people are dying for food, he said, and because of that, each and every penny [from The Mantu] will be separated for the people who really need it. Money, he said, has never been his motivation. Hes still somewhat surprised that hes earning a living for his family doing what he loves. Rather, its that invisible power that drives him. The first MMR vaccine people receive, typically as children, is effective at blocking the disease for about 95% of the population, said Dr. Costi Sifri, director of hospital epidemiology at the University of Virginia Medical Center. A second shot boosts effectiveness. There are certain groups that the CDC recommends should have another MMR vaccine, and those include people going to college, people who work in health care and people who are traveling internationally, because theyre at more risk for exposure, Sifri said. Hepatitis A Health officials also are warning of an epidemic that is widespread in the state: hepatitis A. Last month, the state Department of Health warned Virginians of an outbreak of hepatitis A, of which there have been about 50 cases this year. About half the cases are in Southwest Virginia. Vogt said there hasnt been a change in the virus, which is typically spread when someone with the virus uses the bathroom and then doesnt properly wash their hands. Then it can spread, often through contaminated food or needles or sexual contact. MELVILLE, N.Y., May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- North American Partners in Anesthesia (NAPA), one of the leading single-specialty anesthesia and perioperative management companies in the US, proudly congratulates its anesthesia team at Southington Surgery Center (SSC) on earning First Place ranking for Confidence in Anesthesia Department in the EdgePerception Performance Analysis Report for 2018. In this annual survey of more than 800 hospitals nationwide, SSC also placed in the top 20 for Anesthesia staff courtesy and Anesthesia staff spent timehonors that NAPAs SSC anesthesia clinicians previously earned in 2016 and 2017. SSC, located in Southington, Connecticut and managed by Constitution Surgery Centers, is a joint venture of the Hospital of Central Connecticut (HOCC), MidState Medical Center, and area physicians. Anesthesia services are delivered by a NAPA team that includes eight anesthesiologists, 14 certified nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and two RN MSNs, who together collaborate to produce optimal patient outcomes. John Satterfield, MD, FASA, Director of Anesthesia Services at SSC, attributes the teams high performance and consistent EdgePerception recognition to a service culture built on NAPAs mission to always do whats right for the patient, as well as NAPAs robust leadership training programs. Our anesthesia clinicians and non-clinicians have fully embraced the NAPA philosophy, which imbues the way we all interact with patients and colleagues to create a collegial environment. Every member of the SSC anesthesia department has received leadership training by the world-renowned Studer Group through the NAPA Service Experience program, and this makes a big difference in the way we communicate with patients and their families. The training gave us the tools to put NAPAs service excellence philosophy into practice, whether its in service to our patients, or collaborating with the nursing staff, or working with the administrative staff, says Dr. Satterfield. On behalf of the entire NAPA organization, we congratulate Dr. Satterfield and the SSC anesthesia team on achieving First Place and two top 20 anesthesia-related rankings in the most recent EdgePerception Performance Analysis Report, said John F. Di Capua, MD, CEO of NAPA. A great anesthesia department is one in which every member of the team is committed to patient care and safety, to meeting the needs of their clinician colleagues and administrators, and to adapting to the changing health care landscape. These principles guide how NAPAs more than 2,500 anesthesia and business team members provide perioperative care and leadership at 314 healthcare facilities in 11 states, and as the SSC team has demonstrated, when the whole team takes service excellence to heart, the results can be transformative for our patients and our clients. Read more about the 'secret sauce' for NAPA's top-ranking anesthesia department 4 key principles. About North American Partners in Anesthesia As a clinician-led organization, North American Partners in Anesthesia (NAPA) is redefining healthcare, delivering unsurpassed excellence to its partners and patients every day. In three decades, NAPA has grown to become one of the nations leading single-specialty anesthesia and perioperative management companies, serving more than one million patients annually in more than 260 healthcare locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, and Southeast. For more information, please visit NAPAanesthesia.com. Judi Dench is the one marquee name associated with the movie Red Joan. But really, with her on board, who needs more than one? Yet as good as she is, the actress is little more than the framing device for this polished and morally provocative yet hardly pulse-pounding tale, loosely based on the life of English spy Melita Norwood. (In her 80s, Norwood, hardly a household name, was exposed for handing atomic secrets to the Russians, dating to World War II.) Opening with the 2000 arrest of Denchs fictionalized Joan Stanley, and structured as a series of police interrogations, the story is largely told in flashbacks, beginning in 1938, as a young Joan (Sophie Cookson) is gradually radicalized by her Communist lover, Leo (Tom Hughes), and recruited by the KGB. My little comrade, Leo calls her, over and over. Cookson and Hughes both deliver fine performances, under the irreproachable staging of theater director Trevor Nunn, working from Lindsay Shaperos adaptation of Jennie Rooneys 2013 novel. But the action (if thats the right word) moves pretty darn slowly, with Joan, who takes a job working with British nuclear scientists on the code-named tube alloys project, hesitating to even dip her toe into espionage until after the United States has already developed and dropped its bomb on Japan. The film argues, persuasively, if somewhat one-sidedly, that Joan wanted to even the playing field, assisting Russia in the development of its own nuclear weapons as a way to deter any single nation from using them. Such ethical nuance will not necessarily convince everyone. Joans grown son (Ben Miles), a lawyer, represents the skeptical side of things, denouncing his mother as a traitor, after he gets over his shock and disbelief. But even he eventually comes around. Red Joan is ostensibly a spy drama thriller may be overstating it but at heart its more like an antiwar film. Much of the story concerns Joans romantic relationships: first with Leo, and then later with her boss (Stephen Campbell Moore). But Joans true passion and the films, which it proudly wears on its sleeve is for peace, even at the cost of patriotism. Or at least as that word is traditionally defined. I love my country, the elder Joan says, with a fervor approaching defensiveness. As delivered by Dench, those words dont land like the rationalization of a turncoat. BEDFORD Blue Ridge Optics, which manufactures precision laser optics, crystals and thin film coatings, is an unusual business caught in the middle of the trade war with China. The Bedford company uses certain rare earth materials used in manufacturing high-end optics, and China is a dominant global supplier of rare earths. Walter Siehien founded Blue Ridge Optics in 2005, and now his son Justin Siehien is the general manager. The business employs 42 people. Its one of numerous businesses in Virginia concerned about the trade war, which could put serious strain on them unless a deal is negotiated soon. Rep. Denver Riggleman, R-Nelson, visited Blue Ridge Optics on Friday to learn about the business and how it has been affected by the tariffs. The Siehiens both back the tariffs against China. Were all for tariffs against China right now, Justin Siehien said. Its an unfair market right now that they can sell optics at one-tenth of the cost and develop their technology. Its only going to hurt us. Rare earth metals are a group of 17 elements that appear in low concentrations in the ground, and theyre used in products such as iPhones, electric car motors, computers and televisions. Blue Ridge Optics uses one of those metals, cerium. China accounted for 81% of the worlds rare earth production, according to data from the U.S. Geological Survey. They really do control the market, Justin Siehien said. So far, the U.S. government has exempted rare earths from tariffs on Chinese goods. But Riggleman expressed concern that China could use its position as the supplier of rare earths as leverage in the trade war if tensions increase. The worry is if the trade war keeps going, that there might be some arbitrary issues with getting rare earth metals from China, Riggleman said. The private industry has stockpiles of rare earths to plan for an increase in prices. On Friday, a machine at Blue Ridge Optics was running, infusing liquid with cerium. Blue Ridge Optics makes components that go into other products, many of which end up being sold to China, Justin Siehien said. So Riggleman said if China cut off rare earth exports, it would suffer as well. I do believe China is going to come to the table, Riggleman said. I want you guys to succeed, and I know enough about the challenges you face, and you dont need more on your plate. Riggleman said hes hopeful a deal can be negotiated within the next month. President Donald Trump has also expressed hope that China will make a deal, but its unclear how long hes willing to extend the trade war. At a joint press conference Monday in Tokyo alongside Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Trump said the United States was not ready to make a trade deal with China. I think they probably wish they made the deal that they had on the table before they tried to renegotiate it, Trump said. They would like to make a deal. Were not ready to make a deal. Riggleman said many small businesses across the central Virginia congressional district he represents are in support of the United States getting tough on China. But they have expressed trepidation that China may not negotiate, he said, prolonging the trade war and overburdening American businesses. Theres a lot of small businesses that are willing to take the short term pain for long term gain when it comes to free and fair trade practices with China, Riggleman said. People know its been an unfair, unbalanced playing field for decades. Beales Brewery in Bedford purchases metal tanks that are made in China. Its set to open a second Beales Brewery location in the Tidewater. Owner and developer Dave McCormack said the business hasnt felt the effects of the tariffs yet but expressed concern about the trade battle dragging on. Were worried what the tariffs could do, he told Riggleman. 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. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES RICHMOND HILL, Ontario, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canso Select Opportunities Corporation (TSX Venture: CSOC.A, CSOC.B) (the "Company" or "CSOC") announces that, pursuant to a share transfer agreement dated May 28, 2019, CSOC has agreed to sell certain of its assets consisting of 99,006 Series 4 Class A preferred shares of Hubba Inc. to Skunkworks Investment Corporation (Skunkworks) for total cash consideration of $2,100,000 (the "Transaction"). The Transaction is expected to close on or about June 19, 2019. As at April 30, 2019, the Hubba position accounted for approximately 38.8% of the Companys assets. The Transaction will reduce the Hubba position to 23.4% of the Companys assets. The gross proceeds of the Transaction will be used by the Company to pursue several investment opportunities currently under investigation and for general working capital purposes. John Carswell, a director of CSOC, beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, or exercises control or direction over, approximately 45% of the voting rights of CSOC. In addition, John Carswell, a director and President of Skunkworks, directly and indirectly, beneficially owns, in the aggregate, more than 50% of the securities of Skunkworks. As such, the Transaction is deemed to be a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Transaction is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to subsections 5.5(b) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101 as the Company is not listed on a specified market and the fair market value of the consideration received from interested parties did not exceed 25% of the Companys market capitalization. Closing of the Transaction is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. The Transaction has been reviewed by a special committee (the "Special Committee") comprised of members of the board of directors (the Board) who are independent of CSOC and are not members of management of the Company. The Special Committee determined that it is in the best interests of, or fair to, shareholders of the Company to recommend the Transaction to the Board. The Board reviewed and considered the recommendation of the Special Committee, and provided its approval of the Transaction. John Carswell, Shirley Sumsion and Joe Morin, each a director of the Company and of Skunkworks, abstained from voting with respect to the Transaction. About CSOC CSOC is a publicly-listed, investment company focused on maximizing long-term total returns to shareholders by investing in an actively managed portfolio consisting primarily of Canadian and global holdings which could include large illiquid positions in private and public equity, debt, loans, real estate and infrastructure. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) has in any way passed upon the merits of the proposed transactions and neither of the foregoing entities has approved or disapproved of the contents of this press release. More information on the Company may be found on the Companys website at www.selectopportunitiescorporation.com For further information, please contact: Brian Carney, CEO Canso Select Opportunities Corporation bcarney@selectopportuntitiescorporation.com Tel : 647-956-6264 Forward Looking Information This press release contains forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the words seeks, expects, believes, estimates, will, target and similar expressions. The forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations of CSOC regarding future results or events and are based on information currently available to it. Certain material factors and reasonable assumptions were applied in providing these forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. CSOC believes that the expectations reflected in forward looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions; however, CSOC can give no assurances that the actual results or developments will be realized. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations. Readers, therefore, should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Further, a forward looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made. CSOC undertakes no obligation to publicly update any such statement or to reflect new information or the occurrence of future events or circumstances except as required by securities laws. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release. Additional information about CSOC is available under its SEDAR profile at www.sedar.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. BEDFORD Smith Mountain Lake resident Joyce Horne slowly made her way Monday afternoon to the grave of her uncle, Sgt. John Wilkes, who is one of the eight Bedford Boys buried in Greenwood Cemetery. She bent down and stuck an American flag in the ground and placed a red rose on Wilkes grave before returning to the large group of people who came to the cemetery to honor the eight Bedford Boys on Monday. I grew up in Bedford. My aunt and Uncle John were best friends with my parents, and they palled around a lot together. Movies, picnics, fun things that young people did then whenever they had an opportunity because they never knew when the opportunities were going to stop, Horne said. More than 100 people attended the Bedford International Alliances Memorial Day Service Monday at Greenwood and Oakwood cemeteries in Bedford. The Bedford Boys were the men from Bedford who served together in the 116th Infantry Regiment in World War II, many of whom were killed in Normandy in 1944. For so long World War II veterans didnt want to share and talk. It was just so painful. I think things happening like the 75th anniversary and Ken Parker its amazing that hes opening up Greens Drugstore brought people together. The community seems to be just coming together to celebrate and honor these Bedford Boys. Its about time, BIA secretary Carol Amburgey said. Eight people read biographies of each of the Bedford Boys that were honored before placing a flag and rose on their graves while Bedford Parks and Recreations The Silver Notes, a senior choir group, sang Shenandoah. Horne said it was wonderful and she was so happy to read her uncles biography. Al Vincent, a member of American Legion Post 54, came up with the idea to have a ceremony for the Bedford Boys buried in Bedford after visiting Normandy in 2014 for the 70th anniversary of D-Day. He said he saw large crowds of people gather in Normandy to honor the men from Bedford who were unable to return home. Cindy Higgins, whose mother grew up in the same neighborhood as Sgt. Frank Draper, who was honored Monday, said the ceremony keeps the memory alive, especially as everyone is getting older and the people that knew them or knew their families are passing on. My generation and generations after me, if we dont have this then we dont remember, Higgins said. Higgins said shes heard stories of Draper all her life and remembers being in the Railroad Avenue neighborhood of Bedford when she would stay with her grandmother. To put faces to the stories is a very moving experience, she said. Higgins mother, Barbara Helms, said she knew Draper all her life. My daddy worked with him, and he went to church with us. His whole family went to the same church. My daddy was so fond of him because he was such a good athlete. He was just a tremendous young man, a good person, Helms said. Mondays ceremony was the biggest turnout the BIA had seen since the ceremonys inception in 2016, Amburgey said. Several people said it was nice to see younger people attend the ceremony as well. Im so glad to see it growing. It makes me tearful. It gladdens my heart. Im sure it would my uncle [too], Horne said. Horne, Amburgey and several other BIA members will travel to Normandy for the 75th anniversary of D-Day. Amburgey said she collected a sample of soil from each of the Bedford Boys homes and will take it to France to leave a piece of Bedford there. She said they will also read the biographies of the soldiers while visiting their graves. Heres the unusual situation that Virginians find themselves in. We now have the benefit of a 55-page report detailing everything that one of the states most prominent lawyers could find about why a racist photo appears on Gov. Ralph Northams page in his medical school yearbook from 35 years ago. Never mind that the report was ultimately inconclusive in determining exactly who is in that photo or how it got there (although the evidence leads us to think that its probably not Northam in the photo). The point is that an investigation was conducted, it seems as thorough as possible for someone working without the power to subpoena witnesses to compel testimony. Anyone can now go online at https://bit.ly/2M5TSHQ to read everything that was found including intriguing hints that some people may have fingered just who really is in the photo but some of those suspects refused to talk. By contrast, we know almost nothing about the allegations that Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax committed sexual assault against two different women. True, we know what those allegations are because the women have come forward to speak. And we know Fairfax has denied them. And we know that one of his employers a San Francisco-based law firm is conducting an investigation and put Fairfax on leave. But we may never know the outcome of that investigation. As Fairfaxs other employer, the people of Virginia have a right to wonder. Lets boil down this contrast even more. Northam is not accused of any crime bad judgment and racism, yes, but those are social offenses, not statuary crimes. By contrast, Fairfax is accused by two citizens of crimes serious ones, violent ones, felonies. So why is it we now know more about what Northam did or did not do than what Fairfax did or did not do? Shouldnt the more serious allegation merit a more serious investigation? Some of these questions are easy to answer. We have the public report on Northam because Eastern Virginia Medical School commissioned it. The school had a pressing interest in commissioning the inquiry: It wasnt just Northams reputation that was tainted by the yearbook photo; it was the schools, as well. The school had a vested interest in determining answers, not just about that one particular photo but the culture that produced it. The school went out and found the biggest and most reputable name it could find: Former U.S. Attorney Richard Cullen, who heads the powerful McGuire Woods law firm in Richmond. He has now produced a report that the school should find very useful in rooting out a culture that allowed blackface photos in its yearbook as recently as 2004 and Confederate imagery as recently as 2013, as well as lots of sexual innuendo. If it hadnt been for the schools need to protect its reputation and its deep pockets wed have none of that. No government commission investigated because this wasnt a governmental issue. Journalists investigated somewhat, but not to the extent that Cullen did because no news organization in the state has the resources to put to the task that McGuire Woods does. His report listed nine people who worked on the investigation for nearly four months. Thats more people than most smaller newsrooms have in total, which leads to this important observation: Journalism can be a powerful watchdog only to the extent that readers support it through their subscriptions. We now know as much as we will likely ever know about Northams yearbook photo unless someone actually confesses to being in it, which seems highly unlikely. By contrast, we know almost nothing about the more serious allegations against Fairfax beyond whats already been reported. Its unclear if either of the two women who have accused him of crimes is interested in pressing those through the one venue that society has set up for adjudicating allegations of crimes: The court system. If there are investigations in the two jurisdiction involved Massachusetts and North Carolina wed only know if authorities there chose to talk about them, which they typically dont. Wed only know if there was an indictment, or a public statement that authorities there arent pursuing charges. Its possible somethings happening behind the scenes we dont know about; its also possible that nothing is happening which leaves Fairfax, and all of Virginia, in an uncomfortable gray area. There is one investigation taking place and thats the one by Morrison & Foerster, the international law firm that employs Fairfax in its McLean office (being lieutenant governor is only a part-time job). That firm put him on leave as soon as the allegations surfaced and retained outside counsel to conduct an investigation. That was February. Its now May, and all we know is that Fairfax is still on leave. Does that mean the investigation is still going on? How robust is it? As a private firm, Morrison & Foerster is under no obligation to say what it finds unlike the state-funded Eastern Virginia Medical School in the Northam yearbook case. We may know only by inference does Fairfax ever return to practicing law, or does the law firm suddenly and formally cut ties with him? Virginians ought to find this an unsatisfactory situation: This is essentially an outsourced investigation of a public official by a private company whose interests may not align with the citizens the lieutenant governor represents. There is another option, of course: The General Assembly could investigate. Republicans on the House Courts of Justice Committee would sure like to, but have been stymied by Democrats, who want nothing to do with such a proceeding. In a way, both sides are right: Republicans are right that there ought to be some kind of investigation into these serious allegations against the states No. 2 officeholder, but Democrats are right to be suspicious of a partisan inquiry (a witch hunt, to employ a popular phrase). Does anybody think the U.S. Senates handling of the allegations against then-Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh constituted an example of careful, serious-minded jurisprudence? The best resolution, of course, would be through the courts thats where accusations of criminality ought to be addressed. However, unless something happens, Virginia ambles along with its lieutenant governor accused of crimes that will never get resolved in any kind of public way. Thats not fair to him but, more importantly, its not fair to Virginia. The longer this goes on, the stronger the Republican argument for a hearing becomes. Indians lead the top 10 nationalities investing in Dubai's gold sector followed by the citizens of Pakistan, Britain, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Oman, Jordan, Belgium, Yemen and Canada, according to media report. As per the Business Registration and Licensing (BRL) sector in the Department of Economic Development (DED), about 4,086 companies operate in the gold sector in Dubai and the number of investors stands at 62,125 including 60,012 businessmen and 2,113 businesswomen. Of the 4,086 companies, 2,498 licences were issued for 'Jewellery and jewels of gold and silver', 1,184 for trade in 'Gold and precious metals', 392 for 'Goldsmiths and precious jewellery', seven for 'Gold foundry and precious metals', and five for 'Gold liquidation' activity. The total gold, jewellery and diamond sales, reached 274 bn dirhams last year, an increase of about three per cent compared to 2017. Aruna Gaitonde, Editor in Chief of the Asian Bureau, Rough & Polished A large, dangerous tornado touched down last night in northwest Montgomery County, we are focused on supporting life-saving measures, such as shutting down gas lines or locating people who are trapped by debris, a post on the countys Twitter page announced. The tornados path crossed directly over Interstate 75. It leveled homes and entire apartment complexes and knocked out power and water to tens of thousands of people. More than 80,000 people in Ohio were without power early Tuesday morning. An update on the tornado damage was given at a press conference at Daytons City Hall at 7 a.m. Tuesday. The rescue crews were going house to house looking for trapped residents. The damage was big in Dayton. There were no reports of fatalities and only some minor injuries. Several other tornadoes were reported in Ohio on Monday night, including in Celina, where numerous trees and power lines were downed. Severe weather expands eastward into Pennsylvania, southern New York, Maryland and New Jersey. The biggest threat for tornadoes on Tuesday is from Kansas City into western Illinois. Similar threats on Wednesday will stretch from Texas all the way to New Jersey, with tornado threats highest in the southern Plains. Rich Treats: Stories Of Food From Eastern Montana, May 30, Sidney Join food historian Dr. Mary Murphy from Montana State University and Molly Kruckenberg from the Montana Historical Society in a discussion on the food history of eastern Montana on Thursday, May 30 at 6 p.m. at the MonDak Heritage Center, 120 3rd Ave SE, Sidney. Presenters will discuss the role of food as a touchstone during times of upheaval and the role of food in bringing people together. They will also compare Montanas food history generally to the trends and traditions of food in eastern Montana. The program is FREE to the public! For more information call 406-433-3500 or e-mail [email protected] Summer Art Camps! June 3-July 11, Sidney Each camp runs from Monday-Thursday, where kids will learn creative techniques and processes, create variety of art projects, play outside as appropriate, enjoy daily snacks, and have fun! Schedule of camps: Ages 12+ - June 3-6, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Ages 10-12 June 10-13, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Ages 8-10 June 17-20, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Ages 6-8 June 24-27, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Ages 2-6 July 8-11, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. *must be accompanied by adult/guardian Each camp is $50/child. MDHC members receive a $5 discount! Space is limited. Sign up today for fun, hands-on art! Call 406-433-3500 or visit mondakheritagecenter.org to enroll. For more information call 406-433-3500 or e-mail [email protected] The Perfect Pair: Beer + Cheese w/ Meadowlark Brewing June 14, Sidney On Friday, June 14 at 7 p.m. at the MonDak Heritage Center, 120 3rd Ave SE, Sidney. Travis Peterson and Tim Schnars of Meadowlark Brewing discuss the art and science of pairing beer and cheese. Find out how to pick the perfect cheese for your favorite beer, learn how to put together a tasting plan, and enjoy a variety of local brews and artisan cheeses, like Ole Gus + Gruyere and Harvester + Muenster! Tickets are $35 per person or $25 for MDHC Members. Limited space is available. Proceeds from this event support MonDak Heritage Center exhibits, programs, and collections preservation. Get tickets and reserve your spot by calling 406-433-3500 or stopping by the MonDak Heritage Center. Or purchase tickets online at mondakheritagecenter.org/events/the-perfect-pair. Must be 21+ to attend. French English MONTREAL, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gildan Activewear Inc. (GIL: TSX and NYSE) announced today that Rhodri J. Harries, Executive Vice-President, Chief Financial and Administrative Officer will participate in an interactive discussion at each of the following institutional investor conferences: The National Bank Financial 9th Annual Quebec Conference held in Toronto, Ontario, on Thursday, May 30 th , 2019 at 8:30 AM ET. National Bank Financial does not provide webcast services for this event. , 2019 at 8:30 AM ET. National Bank Financial does not provide webcast services for this event. Stifel 2019 Cross Sector Insight Conference to be held in Toronto, Ontario, on Monday, June 10th, 2019 at 8:00 AM ET. The live audio webcast of the interactive discussion can be accessed at http://www.gildancorp.com/events and will be available for 30 days subsequent to the conference at the same link. About Gildan Gildan is a leading manufacturer of everyday basic apparel which markets its products in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America, under a diversified portfolio of Company-owned brands, including Gildan, American Apparel, Comfort Colors, Gildan Hammer, Prim + Preux, Gold Toe, Anvil, Alstyle, Secret, Silks, Kushyfoot, Secret Silky, Therapy Plus, Peds and MediPeds, and under the Under Armour brand through a sock licensing agreement providing exclusive distribution rights in the United States and Canada. Our product offering includes activewear, underwear, socks, hosiery, and legwear products sold to a broad range of customers, including wholesale distributors, screenprinters or embellishers, as well as to retailers that sell to consumers through their physical stores and/or e-commerce platforms. In addition, we sell directly to consumers through our own direct-to-consumer platforms. Gildan owns and operates vertically-integrated, large-scale manufacturing facilities which are primarily located in Central America, the Caribbean Basin, North America, and Bangladesh. With over 50,000 employees worldwide Gildan operates with a strong commitment to industry-leading labour and environmental practices throughout its supply chain in accordance with its comprehensive Genuine Responsibility program embedded in the Company's long-term business strategy. More information about the Company and its corporate citizenship practices and initiatives can be found at www.gildancorp.com and www.genuineresponsibility.com , respectively. Investor inquiries: Sophie Argiriou Vice President, Investor Communications (514) 343-8815 sargiriou@gildan.com Media inquiries: Garry Bell Vice President, Corporate Marketing and Communications (514) 744-8600 gbell@gildan.com Invitational Art Exhibition, June 4 - July 27 Local artists Trish Stevenson and Afton Ray have gathered a treasure trove of local and regional artists to the "Confluence of Creativity" at the MonDak Heritage Center in Sidney. The show, which runs June 4 through July 27, will feature about 14 different artists including painters, a book illustrator, a glass artist and more, plus musical acts. An opening reception will be held on Friday, June 7. The Roundup will be regularly featuring artists from the show. Cris Fulton grew up in Bowman, North Dakota, and from an early age she enjoyed drawing and taking photographs. She received a B. A. in Art from the University of North Dakota in 1973. After graduation from college, Cris spent a year as a VISTA volunteer at Pierre Indian School in South Dakota. Then she taught basic skills and art in Slope County, North Dakota. Following that, Cris lived in Minneapolis, Minnesota and Taos, New Mexico, where she pursued a career in fine art. Starting with pencil drawings of cowboys and Indians, she went on to pastel drawings of Indian powwow dancers, Aztec dancers, and mythological figures. She moved back to Bowman in 1993, and began to photograph and draw the prairie country of southwestern North Dakota. She enjoys photographing the countryside with a small digital camera and then making paintings with watercolor pencils and crayons on Aquabord. Fulton plays with the colors of this high plains terrain, creating a body of work that celebrates the dreamlike beauty and mystery of her home on the range. Her work has been exhibited at many places throughout the region, including Bismarck, Jamestown, Fargo, Dickinson, Medora, Spearfish, Bowman, Hettinger, Mott, and Miles City. Cris loves the grasslands and badlands country of southwestern North Dakota and southeastern Montana. She considers the magnificent prairie landscape of the Little Missouri and Powder rivers to be her own artistic backyard. As a child, she made many trips on Highway 12 with her grandparents to visit an aunt in Miles City. She and her sisters named one of the tree-studded hills "Freda's Hat" after a woman they knew in Rhame. Fulton's father grew up in Amidon, and she remembers the rides to visit her grandparents there, especially the drives at night past the mysterious shapes of Black Butte and White Butte, and the sky loaded with stars. The Burning Coal Vein area was a favorite place of her family for picnics and fun, and also for comfort and strength when times were sad. The land of my birth seems like a magical place, with rolling hills, magnificent skies, massive buttes, herds of cattle and sheep, and fields of sunflowers and wheat. These rugged plains encase the ancient remains of dinosaurs, crocodiles, camels, gigantic ferns, redwoods, and palm trees. Southwestern North Dakota is a vast and truly awesome territory where you can still experience buffalo herds, bighorn sheep, elk, eagles, rattlesnakes, jackrabbits, coyotes, meadowlarks, prairie dogs, mule deer, antelope, horses, and hawks. Cris Fulton This country is like some mythical Kingdom of the West, with fantastic place names like Little Missouri River, Medora, Prairie Dog Creek, Coyote Creek, Rainy Buttes, Elkhorn Ranch, Killdeer Mountains, Black Butte, White Butte, Medicine Pole Hills, Table Mountain, Pretty Butte, Post Office Butte, and the Cave Hills. I thank my lucky stars for having such an enchanted realm for a backyard. My subjects include the grassy slopes and contours of the country, sagebrush, cottonwoods, and junipers, rivers and creeks, clouds, trails, buttes, and badlands. It is my desire to share the serenity, the exuberance, the liberation, the reverence, the wonder, the beauty, and the joy that I have experienced in this prairie paradise that is sometimes called "God's Country." On May 14, Loren Young, Shane Gorder and Duane Mitchell as individual rate payers and Richland County Commissioners filed public comment with the Public Service Commission opposing the application for a rate increase by MDU. At a recent listening session held in Sidney by PSC Randy Pinocci, MDU stated the increase was for wind farm electric generation in North Dakota. Meanwhile, MDU has announced plans to retire the coal fired units at Lewis and Clark Station in 2020. Although MDU stated that wind powered electricity was less expensive, the Commissioners stated that no uncontested information has been provided comparing the total cost of electric power by wind farms in North Dakota versus electric power generated from coal at Lewis and Clark. The Commissioners also voiced their concerns at the economic impact to Richland County, including the school system, which would result from the Lewis and Clark closings, with the ripple effects on the Savage Mine and Sidney Sugars. The public comment states: "The closure of the Lewis and Clark Station in Montana in favor of yet another rate hike for subsidized wind farms in North Dakota may look better in North Dakota, but it looks bad for Montana and especially for Richland County. The closure of the Lewis and Clark Station is economically the same thing as closure of the Savage coal mine, which in turn puts tremendous pressure on Sidney Sugars." "The total consumer cost and consumer interest in this plan has not been adequately studied or accounted for. At present, we are flying blindly into a probably bleak future, unless we slow down and get the complete picture of what granting the Application and closing the Lewis and Clark Station will do." Sidney Health Center is better able to treat burns after two Sidney nurses recently underwent advanced medical training at the Shriners Hospitals for Children Burn Center in Galveston, TX. Registered Nurses Kay Hatter and Christa Veltman said they look forward to sharing the information that they received during a week of intensive training at the world's premier burn center with other nurses and doctors at SHC. With this region's abundance of agricultural, industrial and oil-related jobs there is always a high risk of injury from burns, and they don't all come from fire, Veltman said. Chemical burns are also a concern. Prevention is the first step. "The best way to treat a burn is to prevent it. We need to teach our children about the dangers of burns," Veltman said. "We can do a lot more for burns now. The chances of surviving critical burns over most of the body have improved through the work being done by the Shriners Hospital in Galveston." The Shriners Hospitals for Children Burn Center in Galveston is the preeminent world leader in pediatric burn care and has been the world's leading pioneer in the advancement of pediatric burn research. "The healing advances made possible by our medical and research staff have improved pediatric burn treatment and dramatically increased survival from burn injuries, improving patient outcomes beyond imagined expectations," said Angel Martinez, outreach coordinator for the Shriners Hospital for Children in Galveston. The trip to Galveston was made possible through generous donations from two local Shrine clubs. The Richland Shrine Club in Sidney, along with a grant from the Sidney Health Center's Foundation for Community Care, contributed to the expense, but the bulk of the funding came from the Glendive Shrine Club. Sandy Stinnett, President of the Glendive Shriners, said his club decided to help pay for the burn training after learning about a group of nurses from Billings who had made the trip. Stinnett wanted children and residents of eastern Montana to also benefit from the training. "I'd like to see more nurses from our area undergo the training," Stinnett said in offering his club's financial support for future trips by area nurses. The Shriners Hospitals for Children is a network of 22 non-profit medical facilities across North America. Kids with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients' ability to pay. The Shriners Hospitals for Children is supported solely through private donations raised by Shrine Clubs throughout the world. The Shriner organization raises more than $2.6 million per day to support the 22 hospitals in three countries. "This is what we do," said Tim Hert, Potentate of Al Bedoo Shrine Temple in Billings. "We help children. That's why we became Shriners." "If you have money to give, give it to them, "Veltman said. "The work they are doing is incredible and it is helping children all around the world." NEW YORK, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. is investigating potential claims against the board of directors of Total System Services, Inc. (NYSE: TSS) on behalf of Total System shareholders concerning the proposed merger with Global Payments Inc. (NYSE: GPN). Click here to participate in the action. Pursuant to the proposed transaction, announced on May 28, 2019, Total System shareholders will receive 0.8101 shares of Global Payments for each share of Total System common stock owned. The investigation focuses on whether Total System and its board of directors violated the federal securities laws and/or breached their fiduciary duties to the Companys shareholders by failing to conduct a fair process and whether and by how much the proposed transaction undervalues the Company. If you own Total System shares, have information, 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 Brandon Walker or Melissa Fortunato by email at investigations@bespc.com , or telephone at (212) 308-1869, or by filling out this contact form . There is no cost or obligation to you. Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. is a New York-based law firm concentrating in commercial and securities litigation. For additional information concerning our investigation of Total System please go to https://bespc.com/tss/. For additional information about Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. please go to www.bespc.com . Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Toronto, ON, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cority, the trusted provider of environmental, health, safety and quality (EHSQ) software, has announced that it has entered into an agreement with Thoma Bravo, LLC, in which the leading private equity investment firm will own a majority stake in the company. Previous majority investor Norwest Venture Partners will continue to retain a significant stake in the business and will re-invest over half of its proceeds. Over its 30-year history, Cority has built the only enterprise-grade, unified true SaaS platform spanning all aspects of EHSQ. Today, Coritys award winning solutions serve over 800 clients worldwide, allowing organizations to gain actionable insights from their data, manage risk and compliance, and improve business performance by safeguarding employees, protecting the environment and streamlining complex workflows. The company has continually driven innovation on behalf of its clients, most recently with the introduction of its Quality and Predictive Analytics solutions and announced record levels of growth and investment in 2018. As organizations increasingly recognize the value and strategic importance of improved EHSQ outcomes, the need for a comprehensive, holistic EHSQ platform has risen in tandem. Cority, which enjoys the industrys best client satisfaction and retention rates and supports millions of end users, is well positioned to address these needs and lead a $4bn+ industry. Our longstanding core values of integrity, quality, customer centricity, community, and diversity continue to underpin our success, said Cority CEO Mark Wallace. We are excited to move to a new phase of our success story by welcoming Thoma Bravo to Cority and look forward to sharing the benefits of their software expertise and investment capital with our clients, partners, and employees. We have tracked Coritys success for years through our numerous investments in other segments of the broader Governance Risk and Compliance (GRC) market, said Hudson Smith, a Partner at Thoma Bravo. With so many point solutions in the GRC market, we believe that Cority is unique in that it offers enterprise clients a single platform to manage their health, safety, environmental, sustainability, operational risk and quality needs. We look forward to helping Mark and the team further invest to deepen and broaden Coritys solutions. Rob Arditi, General Partner of existing investor Norwest, noted, It has been a great journey with Cority over the last few years partnering with management to expand product capabilities, elevate the companys brand and fully cement Coritys position as the global EHSQ leader. Were excited to continue our partnership with Cority alongside Thoma Bravo. Georgian Partners will also re-invest a portion of its existing investment in the business, and continue to advise the company in the area of applied analytics. The transaction is expected to close by the end of June 2019 subject to customary closing conditions. Cority is being advised on the transaction by Harris Williams & Co. and Goodwin Proctor LLP, and co-advised by William Blair & Co. Thoma Bravo is being advised by Kirkland & Ellis LLP. ### About Cority Cority is the most trusted environmental, health, safety, and quality (EHSQ) software for assuring client success. Cority enables organizations to utilize EHSQ software to advance their journey to sustainability and operational excellence by combining the deepest domain expertise with the most comprehensive and secure true SaaS platform. With 30+ years of innovation and experience, Coritys team of over 350 experts serve over 800 clients in 100 countries, supporting 2.5 million end users. The company enjoys the industrys highest levels of client satisfaction and has received many awards for its strong employee culture and outstanding business performance. About Thoma Bravo, LLC Thoma Bravo is a leading private equity firm focused on the software and technology-enabled services sectors. With a series of funds representing more than $30 billion in capital commitments, Thoma Bravo partners with a companys management team to implement operating best practices, invest in growth initiatives and make accretive acquisitions intended to accelerate revenue and earnings, with the goal of increasing the value of the business. Representative past and present portfolio companies include industry leaders such as ABC Financial, Blue Coat Systems, Deltek, Digital Insight, Frontline Education, Global Healthcare Exchange, Hyland Software, Imprivata, iPipeline, PowerPlan, Qlik, Riskonnect, PEC, SailPoint, SolarWinds, Sparta Systems, TravelClick and Veracode. The firm has offices in San Francisco and Chicago. For more information, visit thomabravo.com. Attachment Authorities are searching for a woman who flew from Colorado and was last seen in Malibu four days ago. Jennifer Michelle Lorber, 30, was staying at a motel in the 22000 block of Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu and was driving a rented white Toyota Rav 4, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. The vehicle was found about 12:50 a.m. Sunday, KTLA reported. The Sheriffs Department did not disclose where the car was located. Detectives said Lorber suffers from depression and that her family is concerned about her well-being. Advertisement The most recent contact with Lorber was about 11 p.m. Thursday. She is described as 5 feet 1 and weighing 100 pounds, with brown eyes and long brown hair. The Sheriffs Department asks anyone with information about her whereabouts to contact its missing persons unit at (323) 890-5500. Tips can be made anonymously by calling CrimeStoppers at (800) 222-TIPS. maya.lau@latimes.com Twitter: @mayalau A Newbury Park teen who ran over a school employee while leaving his high school must spend as much as a year behind bars, a Ventura County Superior Court judge has ruled. The 16-year-old, whom prosecutors declined to name because he is a minor, admitted in May to purposefully running over and causing great bodily injury to Lisa Solis, an employee at Thousand Oaks High School. A judge Friday ordered that he spend 11 months in a juvenile detention facility before his behavior is evaluated, said Maureen Byrne, a Ventura County prosecutor. If the teen behaves well, he may be eligible to spend the remaining month of his sentence under house arrest with an electronic monitoring bracelet. He then would be evaluated again, Byrne said. The assault happened the evening of Feb. 8 in the parking lot of the high school. According to prosecutors, the teenager had just stolen something from a school concession stand and was trying to escape. He got into his parents white Mercedes-Benz and stopped in a driveway to let four friends get into the car, Byrne said. Advertisement Solis tried to stop the teen by standing in front of the vehicle. The minor just ran her over and did not stop and left the scene, Byrne said. He then dropped off his friends before driving home, where he was arrested, she said. Solis appeared in court Friday to address the judge and the teenager who ran her over. Sitting in a wheelchair with slightly slurred speech, she said she has problems with balance, suffers from vertigo, and that the left side of her head and chest remain numb, according to the Thousand Oaks Acorn. When you decided to hit the gas and just run me down, what was going through your mind? she asked the teen, according to the Acorn. When I hit the hood of your car, why didnt you stop then? The boy also gave a statement. Ill never be able to put in words how truly sorry I am, he said, according to the Acorn. Byrne said she is happy with the judges order and that the teenager chose to forgo trial by admitting guilt. Its the right thing to do, she said. alejandra.reyesvelarde@latimes.com Twitter: @r_valejandra Serbia put its troops on full alert Tuesday after heavily armed Kosovo police entered Serb-dominated northern Kosovo, firing tear gas and arresting about two dozen people in what they called an anti-organized crime operation. It was the latest flare-up in long-simmering tensions between Serbia and its former province, which declared independence from Belgrade in 2008 after a bloody 1998-99 war that ended only with NATO intervention. Serbs make up 90% of the population in northern Kosovo and they want to remain part of Serbia, not an independent Kosovo. Action by Kosovo special police there is rare and always triggers Serb anger. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said Kosovo police arrested 23 people, including Serbs, Bosnians and a Russian, after bursting into several northern villages and the town of Mitrovica with armored vehicles. Vucic said he had seen video of the police firing live ammunition over the heads of unarmed Serbs, and said the operation was designed to intimidate minority Serbs in Kosovo, whose population is mostly ethnic Albanians. Vucic said he has ordered soldiers near the border to be on combat alert to protect Serbs if tensions escalate. Advertisement Serbia will try to preserve peace and stability, but will be fully ready to protect our people at the shortest notice, Vucic told parliament. He later said that the Kosovo policemen withdrew from northern Kosovo. But in a sign of lingering tensions, Serb troops and armored vehicles were seen leaving their barracks in central Serbia and headed toward the Kosovo border. An air force MiG-29 fighter jet made a low pass near the border with Kosovo, according to the state Tanjug news agency. Any Serbian armed incursion into Kosovo would mean a direct clash with NATO-led peacekeepers there. Lately, Serbia has been making frequent military threats against Kosovo as its political and military alliance with Russia grows stronger despite a proclaimed European Union membership goal. Kosovo police said five police officers and six civilians were injured during an operation against organized crime and corruption, and 19 police officers and a number of other people were arrested. The U.N. mission in Kosovo said those detained included two of its staff, one of them Russian. It said both employees were hospitalized for injuries, and it called for all parties to help restore calm and security. Later, the mission said the Russian citizen was released and Tanjug reported he was taken to a Serb hospital in northern Mitrovica with injuries to the head and face. Russia called Kosovos actions a provocation and demanded the immediate release of the Russian U.N. employee. Kosovo President Hashim Thaci said earlier that the Russian was camouflaged under a diplomatic veil to hamper the police operation. Kosovo Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj urged the ethnic Serb minority to remain calm and support the police. Those involved in illegal activities will go behind bars, he wrote on his Facebook page, insisting that the police operation was not targeting people from specific ethnicities. Kosovos foreign minister said his countrys authorities are set to carry out more police actions like Tuesdays operation that sent tensions with Serbia soaring. I believe its not the last operation in Kosovo. ... Maybe today, maybe tomorrow or in next days. We are fighting organized crime, said the minister, Behgjet Pacolli. The spokesman for the NATO peacekeeping mission, Col. Vincenzo Grasso, said the force is monitoring the situation and coordinating with authorities. Because of the political sensitivity of the moment, Commander KFOR invites all the parties to deal with the disputes peacefully and responsibly, without any use of force or violence. People should stay calm, they have nothing to fear, the mission said in a statement. Serbia and allies Russia and China do not recognize Kosovos 2008 declaration of independence, while the U.S. and more than 100 other countries do. The lingering dispute has stalled both countries efforts to become EU members. The two sides had been taking part in an EU-facilitated dialogue, but Serbia walked away in November after Kosovo slapped a 100% tax on Bosnian and Serbian imports, saying it will be lifted only when the two countries recognize Kosovos sovereignty. ___ Associated Press writers Jovana Gec in Belgrade and Llazar Semini in Tirana, Albania, contributed. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. An Argentine bishop close to Pope Francis is now on trial at the Vatican, accused of sexually abusing seminarians. Francis revealed the development in an interview with Mexicos Televisa Tuesday. He said he received the results of a preliminary investigation into Bishop Gustavo Zanchetta two weeks ago and ordered the case be handed over for trial by a Vatican tribunal. Zanchetta resigned suddenly as bishop of Oran, Argentina in 2017 and within a few months, Francis named him to a senior Vatican administration position. Through documents and interviews, The Associated Press and Argentinas Tribune of Salta have reported that the Vatican was aware of inappropriate sexual behavior by Zanchetta two years before he resigned. Advertisement The Vatican had insisted Zanchetta was only facing governance problems at the time, and that the first accusation of abuse only came in late 2018. Francis acknowledged in the interview that he asked Zanchetta about the first accusations against him, made in 2015 and involving nude selfies on his cellphone. He said he gave Zanchetta the benefit of the doubt when he claimed his phone had been hacked. A year later, documents show that Orans seminary rector was so concerned about Zanchettas behavior that he told the Vatican ambassador in a formal complaint that urgent measures were needed to protect his first-year students, since their introductory classes were held in Zanchettas residence. The 2016 complaint, signed by the rector and two former vicar generals, listed Zanchettas problematic behavior with seminarians, including walking by their rooms at night, asking them for massages, going into their rooms to wake them up in the morning and sitting on their beds, inviting them to drink alcohol and having an obsessive omnipresence in the seminary that made the young men feel asphyxiated. Francis didnt refer to that 2016 complaint in his interview. He jumped instead to 2017, saying as soon as he received a subsequent complaint, he summoned Zanchetta to the Vatican and had him resign. He denied the appointment to the Vaticans financial oversight office was a soft-landing, saying that a psychiatric analysis had determined Zanchetta had aptitude for administration and that he required further treatment in Spain, making his continued residence in Argentina unrealistic. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) The Department of Health (DOH) is confident that imposing higher taxes on tobacco and alcohol products will further trim down the number of Filipino smokers and alcohol drinkers. "There are many ways of decreasing the consumption of tobacco and alcohol but it has been proven worldwide that the best practice, the best and most effective way to do it is really to increase the prices by increasing the taxes," Health Undersecretary Rolando Domingo told CNN Philippines' MedTalk. "The higher the taxes are the less people who will be able to consume and afford these products, and it will have better health benefits for all of us," he added. The Finance department has proposed that an additional 60 excise tax should be imposed on every pack of cigarettes and an additional 40 excise tax should be imposed on every liter of alcohol. If enacted, it will be the second time the government raises taxes on tobacco and alcohol products since the Sin Tax Law took effect six years ago. Domingo said with the implementation of the first tranche of the measure in 2013, the smoking prevalence in the country decreased to 23 percent from 29 percent. But he said the rate is not going down anymore because prices have become affordable again. He said there is a need to raise the cost to make sure the smoking prevalence goes down and meets government targets. "It worked really well for the first five years, but now people are earning so much more money it's more than a tax increase, so the young children who couldn't afford cigarettes before can afford it with their allowance because the prices have not gone up in the past five years," he added. Domingo said money collected from the policy had helped about 9 million Filipino families and six million senior citizens. The agency, he added, had also built hospitals and paid for medical bills using the collection. "If we do not increase the taxes now we're going to expect about 200,000 new smokers every year and these are people who will get sick when they get old," he said. Domingo said higher sin taxes will also cut DOH's spending for the treatment of patients with illnesses caused by tobacco and alcohol. "We spend about P210 billion every year on treating patients with diseases caused by tobacco. If we decrease the number of smokers, decrease the number of illness that we have, then we spend less," he said. "Every time that smoking goes down in any country the incidence or prevalence of these cases also goes down, so we're very sure about that," he added. Domingo urged Filipinos to support the passage of the increased sin taxes as it will benefit them in the future. "Sin taxes work for everybody. We're here to protect your health we want you to indulge less in products that will kill you and at the same time get the money that will help us give universal healthcare to all the Filipinos," he said. THIS NEWS RELEASE IS INTENDED FOR DISTRIBUTION IN CANADA ONLY AND IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA TORONTO, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MediPharm Labs Corp. (TSXV: LABS) (OTCQX: MEDIF) (FSE:MLZ) (MediPharm Labs or the Company), a leader in specialized, research-driven cannabis extraction and cannabinoid isolation, is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Scotiabank, on behalf of a syndicate of underwriters, including GMP Securities L.P. and BMO Capital Markets (collectively the Underwriters), pursuant to which the Underwriters have agreed to purchase on a bought deal basis 10,815,000 common shares of the Company (the Shares) at a price of $5.55 per Share for gross proceeds of $60 million (the Offering). The Company has granted the Underwriters an option (the Over Allotment Option) to purchase up to an additional 1,622,250 Shares on the same terms and conditions, exercisable at any time, in whole or in part, for a period of 30 days following the closing of the Offering for over-allotment and market stabilization purposes. The Shares will be offered in all provinces of Canada, except Quebec, pursuant to a short form prospectus to be filed by MediPharm Labs, as well as in the United States under applicable registration statement exemptions and such other jurisdictions as may be agreed to by MediPharm Labs and the Underwriters on a private placement basis. The Company plans to use the net proceeds from the Offering to fund the Companys ongoing capital expenditures at its Canadian and Australian facilities, for domestic and international expansions, research and development and general corporate purposes. The Offering is expected to close on or about June 17, 2019, and is subject to the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and the securities regulatory authorities, and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States. The Shares have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. About MediPharm Labs Corp. Founded in 2015, MediPharm Labs has the distinction of being the first company in Canada to become a licensed producer for cannabis oil production under the ACMPR without first receiving a cannabis cultivation license. This expert focus on cannabis concentrates from being built to cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practices) and ISO standard-built clean rooms and critical environments laboratory, allows MediPharm Labs to produce purified, pharmaceutical-like cannabis oil and concentrates for advanced derivative products. MediPharm Labs has invested in an expert, research-driven team, state-of-the-art technology, downstream extraction methodologies and purpose-built facilities to deliver pure, safe and precisely-dosed cannabis products to patients and consumers. MediPharm Labs private label program is a high margin business for the company, whereby it opportunistically procures dry cannabis flower and trim from its numerous product supply partners, to produce cannabis oil concentrate products for resale globally on a private label basis. For further information, please contact: Laura Lepore, VP, Investor Relations Telephone: 705-719-7425 ext 216 Email: investors@medipharmlabs.com Website: www.medipharmlabs.com NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSXV) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: 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 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 to, among other things, statements regarding the terms and closing date of the Offering and the Companys expected use of proceeds from the Offering. 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; the inability of MediPharm Labs to obtain adequate financing; the delay or failure to receive regulatory approvals: and other factors discussed in the Companys filings, available on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. 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, MediPharm Labs assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change. An Iraqi court on Tuesday sentenced two high-profile French members of the Islamic State group to death, including one who featured in a propaganda video praising the 2015 Paris attacks, bringing the total number of French former jihadis condemned to death this week to six. France said it would do all it can to spare the group from execution in Iraq. Although it has made no effort to bring back the captured fighters, France is outspoken against the death penalty globally. The sentencings in Iraq come amid controversy about the legal treatment of thousands of foreign fighters who had joined IS at the height of its power in Syria and Iraq when the militant group declared its self-styled caliphate. Human rights groups are concerned they are being rushed through Iraqi counterterrorism courts in trials that raise questions over whether justice is being done. Convictions are often based on confessions that defendants and rights groups say are extracted by intimidation, torture and abuse and without due process. Although European IS members have been sentenced to death, none has actually been executed in Iraq. Advertisement The men sentenced to death Tuesday were identified as Karam Salam Mohammed El-Harchaoui and Brahim Ali Mansour Nejara. They are among a group of 12 French citizens who were detained by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces in neighboring Syria and handed over to Iraq in January. The Kurdish-led group spearheaded the fight against IS in Syria and has handed over to Iraq hundreds of suspected IS members in recent months. Nejara, 32, helped run one of the networks that sent Europeans to join the Islamic State group and appeared in a video a week after the November 2015 attacks in Paris. The video was titled Paris has collapsed and shows a fictitious destruction of the Eiffel Tower, according to Jean-Charles Brisard of the Center of the Analysis of Terrorism. Nejara is originally from a suburb of the French city of Lyon called Meyzieu, long known to be a training ground for jihadis, even before the appearance of the Islamic State group. He is believed to have encouraged one of his brothers back home to carry out an attack in France, possibly on the stadium there. Two brothers were arrested in France. The video, in which he appeared armed and in military uniform praising the Paris attacks, was played in court Tuesday. The attacks killed 130 people and wounded more than 400. Nejara, speaking before the judge, said that he was forced to make the video because the group was looking for someone who speaks French. He said he was threatened with prison when he requested to appear masked in the video, before they agreed to his request. The other militant, El-Harchaoui, 33, lived in Belgium before he left for Syria in 2014. He was wounded in one of the battles he fought for IS in Syria. His second wife told The Associated Press he joined IS in Syria in 2014, was sent to Iraq to fight, escaped and traveled back to Syrias Shaddadeh, then to Raqqa where he was wounded in an airstrike in 2016. He was jailed for fleeing, then released. The two then met and married in October 2015, after which he was arrested again. I know he will not have a fair trial, Samira told the AP in an interview in March at camp Roj in northern Syria, where thousands of foreign women and children are languishing. El-Harchaoui showed off his wound to the court on Tuesday, pulling off the top of his yellow prison uniform to reveal a hole in his right shoulder where he was wounded from a shell that hit a nearby house. Three other French IS fighters had already been sentenced to death on Sunday, and a fourth on Monday. Those convicted can appeal their sentences within a month. Nabil Boudi, lawyer for Leonardo Lopez, who was sentenced to death earlier this week, told France Info radio that lawyers for the French citizens were waiting for the end of all the trials before appealing. Human rights groups have criticized Iraqs handling of IS trials, accusing authorities of relying on circumstantial evidence and often extracting confessions under torture. Judge Abdul Sattar Bayraqdar, a judicial spokesman, said Iraq is prosecuting these militants on behalf of all the countries of the world. By punishing these criminals, we are saving the world from their evils, he told AP. The former IS members all said they regretted what theyd done. However, they all referred to IS by the Arabic name of Tanzeem, or organization, rather than Daesh, even when the judge did. The Arabic acronym for the group is deemed offensive by IS and its supporters. Frances foreign minister said earlier Tuesday that his government is working to spare the group of condemned Frenchmen from execution after Iraq sentenced them to death. Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian also reiterated Frances position but said the IS militants should be tried where they committed their crimes. We are multiplying efforts to avoid the death penalty for these ... French people, he said on France-Inter radio. He didnt elaborate, but said he spoke to Iraqs president about the case. Boudi, the lawyer, accused France of engaging in doublespeak. He said France knew full well the moment the French citizens were transferred to Iraq that they were going to be sentenced to death. He said the investigation lasted three months and was a judicial fiasco. The idea of a fair trial is a farce, a huge joke. ___ Associated Press writers Lori Hinnant in Brussels, Zeina Karam in Beirut, and Ahmed Sami in Baghdad contributed to this report. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Police on Tuesday arrested a former Iranian vice president and mayor of Tehran after he confessed to shooting one of his wives dead in her home, Irans state news agency reported. Police detained Mohammad Ali Najafi after he went to authorities and confessed to killing wife Mitra Najafi, IRNA quoted prosecutor Mohammad Shahriari as saying. Shahriari said Najafi and his wife were having domestic problems. Earlier on Tuesday, Iranian media reported that Mitra Najafi, who is one of Najafis two wives, had been killed in northern Tehran. Gun violence is very rare in Iran, especially among the countrys political and economic elite. Advertisement Najafi resigned as mayor in 2018 after hard-liners criticized him for attending a dance performance by young girls. In 2013, Najafi an MIT educated mathematician worked as vice president in charge of cultural heritage and tourism in President Hassan Rouhanis administration for nearly seven months. Najafi has held many ministerial positions in his career. Gen. Ali Reza Lotfi, head of Tehran polices criminal investigation department, told state TV that Najafi handed the weapon over to police voluntarily and admitted committing the crime. Lotfi said Najafi fired five times and two bullets hit the victim. He said the case is under investigation by the police and judiciary simultaneously. Semi-official news agency Tasnim quoted Shahriari as saying Mitra Najafi was shot several times, including once in the heart. Her body was found in a bedroom on the seventh floor of a residential high-rise in northern Tehran. Polygamy is legal in Iran, though many criticized Najafi, 67, on social media after he married Mitra, 35 . Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Israel was in an unprecedented political impasse Tuesday as parliament pressed forward with legislation to dissolve itself in a high-stakes showdown that could lead to another snap election. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had appeared to have secured a fresh mandate to rule after last months election, with a clear path to build a coalition government with his traditional political partners. But a shocking crisis with his longtime ally and erstwhile rival Avigdor Lieberman has thrust the country into unchartered territory. Netanyahu has until late Wednesday to present his new coalition or else Israels largely ceremonial president can task someone else with the job. But the prime minister seems to have no intention of letting that happen and is threatening another election instead. Advertisement Backed by Netanyahu, the first of three motions required to dissolve parliament passed early Tuesday with a 66-44 majority, and a tentative election date was set for Sept. 17. Negotiations are expected to continue right up till the final deadline. But if no compromise is found, Israel will likely go to elections for the second time this year something that has never happened before. Though Netanyahus Likud party increased its power to 35 seats in parliament in the Apr. 9 vote, it cannot muster a 61-seat majority without Liebermans Yisrael Beiteinu party. The Likud has assailed Lieberman in recent days for undermining the peoples will of a right-wing government and accused him of acting out of personal spite for Netanyahu. The prime minister himself said Lieberman would be fully responsible for dragging the country to an expensive, wasteful election and his people have vowed to aggressively go after Liebermans core supporters in response. But the mercurial Lieberman seems to be holding his ground. The only motivation of Yisrael Beiteinu is to stand by our principles and our commitments, he said in a Facebook post. We are not looking to topple Netanyahu and are not looking for an alternative candidate, but we will not compromise. The crisis ostensibly revolves around Liebermans insistence that current legislation mandating that young ultra-Orthodox men be drafted into the military, like most other Jewish males, run its course. Ultra-Orthodox parties consider conscription a taboo, fearing that military service will lead to immersion in secularism. They insist that years of exemptions that have generated widespread resentment among the rest of Jewish Israelis remain in place. A stalemate on the issue was one of the factors that shortened the term of the previous coalition government, but the assumption was that a creative compromise would be found this time around. Instead, Netanyahu finds himself on the precipice of having to call new elections that could once again put his lengthy rule in peril. The crisis shines a spotlight on the 60-year-old Lieberman, one of the most influential and unpredictable politicians in Israel. The tough-talking, Moldovan-born Lieberman started out as a top aide to Netanyahu during his first term in office in the 1990s before embarking on a political career of his own. Since then, he has known his ups and downs with his former boss in stints in various ministries, including as foreign minister and defense minister. A staunch nationalist, he has faced long-standing accusations of racism for branding Arab lawmakers as enemies of the state and advocating for population swaps in a future peace deal that would leave many Arab citizens outside Israels borders. But Lieberman, who still speaks in a thick, monotonous Russian accent, also champions a secular agenda aimed toward his political base of immigrants from the former Soviet Union and has pledged to confront efforts of ultra-Orthodox parties to coerce religion on a secular majority. And despite his fiery rhetoric and strongman persona, he has shown signs of pragmatism such as once suggesting hed be willing to dismantle his own West Bank settlement if Israels final borders were redrawn. Mostly he has emerged as an iconoclast in a right-wing bloc that has largely blindly bent to the will of Netanyahu in recent years. Its made him an unlikely savior in the eyes of some anti-Netanyahu forces. He is insisting on a matter of principle. True, we look at the spectacle and can scarcely believe it, said Ben-Dror Yemini, a columnist for the Yediot Ahronot daily, which is highly critical of Netanyahu. Liebermans very act of abiding by the principles with which he is identified is a refreshing change in the political scene, Yemini added. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Irans influential Revolutionary Guard said Tuesday it doesnt fear a possible war with the United States and claimed that America hasnt grown in power in recent years the latest tough talk from Tehran amid escalating regional tensions and a crisis with Washington. The enemy is not more powerful than before, said the Guard spokesman, Gen. Ramazan Sharif. Tensions between Washington and Tehran soared recently over America deploying an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Persian Gulf over a still-unexplained threat it perceives from Tehran. The U.S. also plans to send 900 additional troops to the Mideast and extending the stay of another 600 as tens of thousands of others also are on the ground across the region. The crisis takes root in President Donald Trumps withdrawal last year of the U.S. from the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers that capped Irans uranium enrichment activities in return to lifting sanctions. Washington subsequently re-imposed sanctions on Iran, sending its economy into freefall. Advertisement Trump has argued that the deal failed to sufficiently curb Irans ability to develop nuclear weapons or halt its support for militias throughout the Middle East that the U.S. says destabilize the region, as well as address the issue of Tehrans missiles, which can reach both U.S. regional bases and Israel. Speaking at a press conference in Tehran, Sharif said the Guard doesnt support engaging in any war while at the same time it doesnt fear the occurrence of a war. We have enough readiness to defend the country, he said, adding that Iran has boosted its military power over the past 30 years. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif appeared unimpressed with Japans offer to mediate in the crisis, saying Trump should make his intentions clear about any talks with Iran through actions, not words. Zarif said in a late Monday tweet: Actions_not words_will show whether or not thats In Japan on Monday, Trump said hed back Prime Minister Shinzo Abes efforts to open a communication with Iran. I do believe Iran would like to talk and if theyd like to talk, well talk also, Trump said. Iran has said it has no interest in negotiations with Washington following Trumps pullout from the nuclear deal and the re-imposing of sanctions on Iran. Zarif in his tweet also blamed Trumps economic pressure on Iran for the regional tensions. However, Irans foreign ministry spokesman, Abbas Mousavi, tempered his ministers remarks by saying that Iran would wait and see before deciding on any offers of negotiations. Japanese media have reported that Abe is considering a visit to Iran next month. The Kyodo News agency, citing unidentified government sources, said Friday that Abes visit would be likely in mid-June. Earlier this month, Zarif visited Tokyo. The U.S. also has accused Iran of being behind a string of incidents this month, including what officials allege was sabotage of oil tankers off the coast of the United Arab Emirates and a rocket that landed near the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, while Yemens Iranian-aligned Houthi rebels launched a string of drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia. A Dubai-based, government-aligned newspaper criticized Zarif in a rare front-page editorial Tuesday. The Gulf News piece, headlined No thank you, Mr. Zarif, dismissed his recent offer of forming a nonaggression pact with Gulf Arab nations and said the countries are not buying Zarifs nice neighbor routine. The paper says Iran continues to call for the overthrow of Arab governments, sends its agents to spy and sabotage, aiming at spreading chaos in Gulf countries, such as Bahrain and Kuwait and more recently off Fujairah and in Saudi Arabia. Nobody wants war in this region, the newspaper added. But Iran should instead focus on its daunting internal problems which cannot be resolved by constantly fomenting aggression against our countries. The UAE is part of a Saudi-led coalition that has waged war on Yemens Houthi rebels since 2015, backed by Iran. Tehran, however, denies arming the Houthis. ___ Associated Press writer Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed to this report. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. President Donald Trumps son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner is in Morocco to seek King Mohammed VIs backing for economic elements of the Trump administrations still-secret peace plan for Israel and Palestine. The Trump administration is stepping up efforts to build support for the plan, as the architects of the proposal began a Mideast tour this week aimed at winning over uneasy Arab nations. A White House official said Tuesday the trip is part of our ongoing efforts to achieve peace between Israel and the Palestinians but offered no specifics about the teams agenda at its various stops. The administration is keen to win support from members of the Arab League on whom the plan will rely heavily for both economic and political support. Kushner, Trumps special representative for international negotiations Jason Greenblatt and special U.S. envoy for Iran, Brian Hook, will also travel to Jordan and Israel as part of the trip. Advertisement The Palestinians, who have cut off contact with the Trump administration and have rejected the peace plan sight unseen, are urging fellow Arabs to steer clear of the Bahrain economic workshop to be held on June 25-26. However, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have all signaled they intend to participate. Morocco and Jordan have yet to offer any public position on either the peace plan or the Bahrain meeting. Both have close ties with the Palestinian leadership and may fear public discontent should they endorse the plan. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. European Union leaders and party officials plotted strategy Monday after European Parliament elections ended the domination of the main center-right and center-left parties and revealed an altered political landscape where the far-right and environmentalists stand as forces to be reckoned with. French President Emmanuel Macron launched a flurry of meetings, ahead of a summit Tuesday where the 28-nation blocs presidents and prime ministers will take stock of the results from elections that attracted the highest voter turnout in 20 years. Macrons Republic on the Move party looks to have secured 23 seats in the assembly for the next five years the same number as the far-right National Rally, whose leader Marine Le Pen was trounced by Macron in national elections two years ago. He was due to hold talks with the leaders of Spain, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia ahead of the dinner summit in Brussels. France wasnt the only country where voters took their concerns about immigration and security to the ballot box. Italys populist League party, under hard-line Interior Minister Matteo Salvini, is set to become one of the biggest in the 28-nation blocs assembly. Belgiums Vlaams Belang also made significant gains. Advertisement The rules are changing in Europe, Salvini said at his League party headquarters in Milan early Monday. A new Europe is born. Provisional results show the League would win 34% of the vote, up from just 6% at the last European election in 2014. The lions share of Britains seats went to Nigel Farages Brexit Party, as citizens punished the governing conservatives and opposition Labour party for their embarrassing failure to manage the divided countrys delayed departure from the EU. Riding what they called Europes green wave backed by Europe-wide rallies urging climate action, environmentalist parties made strong gains, notably in Germany, one of the continents main forces for EU integration. Another mainstream formation, the pro-free-market ALDE group backed by Macron, saw their stake in the 751-seat parliament rise to 109 seats, from 68 in 2014. The picture of a fractured assembly for the next five years was complete as many citizens turned their backs on the center-right European Peoples Party one of its key figures, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, saw her party lose ground and the center-left Socialists. In Berlin, the leaders of Germanys governing parties met separately to weigh the fallout from their worst post-World War II showing in a nationwide election. Certainly the EU polls have signaled an end to a cozy two-party relationship that has endured for 40 years. We are facing a shrinking center of the European Union parliament, a subdued EPP lead candidate Manfred Weber said, after just over 50 percent of the EUs more than 400 million voters had turned out over four days in the worlds biggest transnational elections. From now on, those who want to have a strong European Union have to join forces. The Socialist lead candidate, Frans Timmermans, essentially conceded defeat, even though the two groups remain the assemblys biggest by some margin. If you lose an election, if you lose seats, you have to be modest, the former Dutch foreign minister said. We have lost seats and this means that we have to be humble. Spanish caretaker Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez was a notable exception, as his victorious Socialists looked set to win 20 of the countrys 54 seats in the parliament. Although still trickling in, results show that the EPP is set to secure 182 seats, down from 217 five years ago. The Socialists are slated to win 147, down from 187. The two parties have dominated the parliament with a combined majority since elections were first held in 1979. Senior figures from the EPP hold the top posts in the EUs three main institutions: parliament president, head of the EUs powerful executive commission and European Council president, who chairs summits of European presidents and prime ministers. While real power in Europe remains in the hands of the 28 member states, the assemblys influence has grown. Its helped improve air flight safety in Europe, cut down on plastics use, end mobile telephone roaming charges inside the bloc, boost data privacy, and cut carbon dioxide emissions from cars. The parliament also has an important say in international treaties ranging from trade talks to Brexit. But now new, uncomfortable alliances must be forged. Weber suggested that the EPP, Socialists and ALDE could form a stable majority at the center of the political spectrum, working in concert with the Greens. But ALDE officials, including group lead candidate Margrethe Vestager, insist that Europes traditional political certainties are a thing of the past. The monopoly of power has been broken, said Vestager, currently the EUs competition commissioner, describing Sundays polls as a signal for change. Party group leaders are likely to signal Tuesday morning what kind of alliance might hold, and who might be the best candidates for the EUs top jobs. Their decisions will set the stage for EU leaders as they gather Tuesday evening to see where the political pieces lie and discuss potential candidates. AP writers Lori Hinnant and Raf Casert in Brussels, Angela Charlton in Paris and Frank Jordans in Berlin contributed. A second conservative Republican in as many House sessions stepped in on Tuesday to block a long-overdue $19-billion disaster aid bill thats a top priority for some of President Trumps most loyal allies on Capitol Hill. Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky said that if Democratic leaders such as Speaker Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco thought the measure was so important, they should have kept the House in session in Washington late last week to slate an up-or-down roll call vote. Another conservative blocked an earlier attempt Friday to pass the measure under fast-track rules, but Democrats tried again Tuesday. Veteran Democrat Sanford Bishop flew to Washington from Georgia to request the House pass the popular measure under fast-track procedures that permitted any individual lawmakers to block the bill. Eventual passage of the bill, supported by Trump and top leaders in Congress, is a forgone conclusion. Trying again on Tuesday was a political freebie for Democrats, who went on the attack right after the vote. Advertisement One objection by Republicans was a move by House Democrats last week to dump overboard Trumps request for $4.5 billion to address the crisis of Central American refugees at the southern border. Trump is a supporter of the measure, which swept through the Senate on Thursday as lawmakers rushed to exit Washington for Memorial Day. Many Republicans, including Southerners facing reelection, are frustrated that the bill has taken so long. After being denied his border money in a fight with House Democrats such as Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut, Trump still embraced the bill, which directs much of its aid to political strongholds of his, such as the Florida Panhandle and rural Georgia and North Carolina. Passing legislation without any objection from anyone is often trickier to do in the House than the Senate, however. I just think a unanimous consent, voice vote, on the way out the door theres always, out of 535 [members of Congress], theres always a few who think maybe thats not appropriate, said Sen. Ken Cramer (R-N.D.), a conservative who presided over a moments-long pro forma session of the Senate on Tuesday. Cramer, who moved over to the Senate this year after spending three terms in the House GOP majority, also pointed out that the final disaster bill actually took out some of the things that the House conservatives wanted, such as billions of dollars to care for the influx of migrants seeking asylum after crossing the southern border. There are also newer additions to the measure to help Midwestern areas suffering from springtime floods, along with large chunks of money to rebuild military bases such as Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida that were damaged by a string of disasters dating to last falls hurricane season. The measure ordinarily would have passed months ago, but Trump injected himself into the debate, demanding that funding sought by Puerto Ricos elected officials, Republicans and Democrats both, be kept out. Democrats held firm in demanding that Puerto Rico, a territory whose 3 million people are U.S. citizens, be helped by the measure. Their confidence was clear from the outset and GOP resolve on Puerto Rico, never particularly strong to begin with, steadily faded as the impasse dragged on. The bill now contains more money for Puerto Rico, about $1.4 billion, than Democrats originally asked for. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zanzibar Gold Inc. (ZBR CSE; ZNZBF OTC Pinks) reports that its consultants have initiated their exploration evaluation of the Mkuvia Gold Property in the Nachengwea area of southern Tanzania. The Mkuvia property has had small scale local placer operators mining gold from the property since 2005. In 2009, a 43-101 Compliant Reserve report was calculated on the central portion of the main gold producing area, that outlined an inferred reserve 6 million grams of gold. The initial assessment is to determine that the identified reserve is intact and the purity of the gold being recovered. A field visit to the property and the collection of the alluvial gold for analysis is being completed by the reports original author. This work will determine how much of a gold bullion inventory can be established for the company by a low cost placer operation, Company President S.A. Farrage outlined, As well as enabling the company to evaluate other gold prospects in the region. Tanzania has moved from an insignificant gold producing country in the last century to a 50 tonne per year producer in the early part of the 21st century with Anglo Since Ashantis Geita Gold mine (7 million ounces produced since 2000 with reserves estimated at 7.7 million ounces) and Acacias (Barrick gold) Buylanhulu (initial reserves 17 million ounces) as the forefront operations. G. Macdonald, the QP for the company has reviewed this news release. On behalf of the Board Abby Farrage President 1-778-891-2701 Web site Zanzibar Gold Inc. This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects or does not expect, is expected, estimates, intends, anticipates or does not anticipate, or believes, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, events or developments to be materially different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. THE CSE HAS NEITHER APPROVED NOR DISAPPROVED THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. 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. TORONTO, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Centerra Gold Inc. (TSX: CG) (Centerra or the Company) announced today that it has agreed with the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic (the Government) to further extend the First Longstop Date under the Strategic Agreement for Environmental Protection and Investment Promotion (Strategic Agreement) previously entered into with the Government on September 11, 2017. The First Longstop Date is the date by which all conditions precedent to the completion of the Strategic Agreement are required to be satisfied and it has been extended from May 31, 2019 to July 31, 2019. The Company will continue to work with the Government to satisfy the remaining conditions precedent and to complete the Strategic Agreement as soon as possible. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Information Information contained in this news release which is not a statement of historical fact may be forward-looking information for the purposes of Canadian securities laws. Such forward-looking information involves assumptions, risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The words believe, expect, anticipate, contemplate, plan, intends, continue, budget, estimate, may, will, schedule, understand and similar expressions identify forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things: the Companys expectations regarding its future discussions with the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic to reach completion of the Strategic Agreement. Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Centerra, are inherently subject to significant political, 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 information. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: risks that any of the conditions precedent to the Strategic Agreement will not be satisfied in a timely manner or at all, particularly as the Government may not bind the General Prosecutors Office or the Parliament of the Kyrgyz Republic; a decision by the General Prosecutors Office, or its successor the Anti-Corruption Service of the State Committee for National Security, to re-open at any time civil or criminal proceedings against Centerra, its subsidiaries or other stakeholders; the failure of the Government to comply with its continuing obligations under the Strategic Agreement, including the requirement that it comply at all times with its obligations under the 2009 Kumtor Project Agreements, allow for the continued operation of the Kumtor Mine by Kumtor Gold Company (KGC) and Kumtor Operating Company (KOC) and not take any expropriatory action; actions by the Government or any state agency or the General Prosecutor's Office that serve to restrict or otherwise interfere with the payment of funds by KGC and KOC to Centerra. See section titled Risks that can affect our business in the Companys most recently filed Annual Information Form available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. About Centerra Centerra Gold Inc. is a Canadian-based gold mining company focused on operating, developing, exploring and acquiring gold properties in North America, Asia and other markets worldwide and is the largest Western-based gold producer in Central Asia. Centerra operates two flagship assets, the Kumtor Mine in the Kyrgyz Republic and the Mount Milligan Mine in British Columbia, Canada, and is building its next gold mine, the 100% owned Oksut Gold Mine in Turkey. Centerra's shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol CG. The Company is based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. For more information: John W. Pearson Vice President, Investor Relations (416) 204-1953 john.pearson@centerragold.com Additional information on Centerra is available on the Companys web site at www.centerragold.com and at SEDAR at www.sedar.com . A PDF accompanying this announcement is available at http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/839ab77c-adbf-45c6-809d-6027a988634a Data Is a Toxic Asset, So Why Not Throw It Out? Thefts of personal information arent unusual. Every week, thieves break into networks and steal data about people, often tens of millions at a time. Most of the time its information thats needed to commit fraud, as happened in 2015 to Experian and the IRS. Sometimes its stolen for purposes of embarrassment or coercion, as in the 2015 cases of Ashley Madison and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. The latter exposed highly sensitive personal data that affects security of millions of government employees, probably to the Chinese. Always its personal information about us, information that we shared with the expectation that the recipients would keep it secret. And in every case, they did not. The telecommunications company TalkTalk admitted that its data breach last year resulted in criminals using customer information to commit fraud. This was more bad news for a company thats been hacked three times in the past 12 months, and has already seen some disastrous effects from losing customer data, including 60 million (about $83 million) in damages and over 100,000 customers. Its stock price took a pummeling as well. People have been writing about 2015 as the year of data theft. Im not sure if more personal records were stolen last year than in other recent years, but it certainly was a year for big stories about data thefts. I also think it was the year that industry started to realize that data is a toxic asset. The phrase big data refers to the idea that large databases of seemingly random data about people are valuable. Retailers save our purchasing habits. Cell phone companies and app providers save our location information. Telecommunications providers, social networks, and many other types of companies save information about who we talk to and share things with. Data brokers save everything about us they can get their hands on. This data is saved and analyzed, bought and sold, and used for marketing and other persuasive purposes. And because the cost of saving all this data is so cheap, theres no reason not to save as much as possible, and save it all forever. Figuring out what isnt worth saving is hard. And because someday the companies might figure out how to turn the data into money, until recently there was absolutely no downside to saving everything. That changed this past year. What all these data breaches are teaching us is that data is a toxic asset and saving it is dangerous. Highly personal data Saving it is dangerous because its highly personal. Location data reveals where we live, where we work, and how we spend our time. If we all have a location tracker like a smartphone, correlating data reveals who we spend our time withincluding who we spend the night with. Our Internet search data reveals whats important to us, including our hopes, fears, desires and secrets. Communications data reveals who our intimates are, and what we talk about with them. I could go on. Our reading habits, or purchasing data, or data from sensors as diverse as cameras and fitness trackers: All of it can be intimate. Saving it is dangerous because many people want it. Of course companies want it; thats why they collect it in the first place. But governments want it, too. In the United States, the National Security Agency and FBI use secret deals, coercion, threats and legal compulsion to get at the data. Foreign governments just come in and steal it. When a company with personal data goes bankrupt, its one of the assets that gets sold. Saving it is dangerous because its hard for companies to secure. For a lot of reasons, computer and network security is very difficult. Attackers have an inherent advantage over defenders, and a sufficiently skilled, funded and motivated attacker will always get in. And saving it is dangerous because failing to secure it is damaging. It will reduce a companys profits, reduce its market share, hurt its stock price, cause it public embarrassment, andin some casesresult in expensive lawsuits and occasionally, criminal charges. All this makes data a toxic asset, and it continues to be toxic as long as it sits in a companys computers and networks. The data is vulnerable, and the company is vulnerable. Its vulnerable to hackers and governments. Its vulnerable to employee error. And when theres a toxic data spill, millions of people can be affected. The 2015 Anthem Health data breach affected 80 million people. The 2013 Target Corp. breach affected 110 million. This toxic data can sit in organizational databases for a long time. Some of the stolen Office of Personnel Management data was decades old. Do you have any idea which companies still have your earliest e-mails, or your earliest posts on that now-defunct social network? Why do we hang on to data? If data is toxic, why do organizations save it? There are three reasons. The first is that were in the middle of the hype cycle of big data. Companies and governments are still punch-drunk on data, and have believed the wildest of promises on how valuable that data is. The research showing that more data isnt necessarily better, and that there are serious diminishing returns when adding additional data to processes like personalized advertising, is just starting to come out. The second is that many organizations are still downplaying the risks. Some simply dont realize just how damaging a data breach would be. Some believe they can completely protect themselves against a data breach, or at least that their legal and public relations teams can minimize the damage if they fail. And while theres certainly a lot that companies can do technically to better secure the data they hold about all of us, theres no better security than deleting the data. The last reason is that some organizations understand both the first two reasons and are saving the data anyway. The culture of venture-capital-funded start-up companies is one of extreme risk taking. These are companies that are always running out of money, that always know their impending death date. They are so far from profitability that their only hope for surviving is to get even more money, which means they need to demonstrate rapid growth or increasing value. This motivates those companies to take risks that larger, more established, companies would never take. They might take extreme chances with our data, even flout regulations, because they literally have nothing to lose. And often, the most profitable business models are the most risky and dangerous ones. Smart solutions We can be smarter than this. We need to regulate what corporations can do with our data at every stage: collection, storage, use, resale and disposal. We can make corporate executives personally liable so they know theres a downside to taking chances. We can make the business models that involve massively surveilling people the less compelling ones, simply by making certain business practices illegal. The Ashley Madison data breach was such a disaster for the company because it saved its customers real names and credit card numbers. It didnt have to do it this way. It could have processed the credit card information, given the user access, and then deleted all identifying information. To be sure, it would have been a different company. It would have had less revenue, because it couldnt charge users a monthly recurring fee. Users who lost their password would have had more trouble re-accessing their account. But it would have been safer for its customers. Similarly, the Office of Personnel Management didnt have to store everyones information online and accessible. It could have taken older records offline, or at least onto a separate network with more secure access controls. Yes, it wouldnt be immediately available to government employees doing research, but it would have been much more secure. Data is a toxic asset. We need to start thinking about it as such, and treat it as we would any other source of toxicity. To do anything else is to risk our security and privacy. Categories: Computer and Information Security, Featured, Privacy and Surveillance Having multiple-birth babies can be a time of wonder and excitement, however, according to the first-ever international collaborative report released today, these babies and their families can face serious disadvantages compared to parents of single-birth babies. Led by Twins Research Australia based at the University of Melbourne, the report identifies common challenges facing these families, including greater risk of pregnancy complications and premature birth, infant development delays and special needs, as well as financial, psychological and social support obstacles. Researchers are calling for urgent action in the areas of research, education, policy and practice to ensure health services and professionals can better meet the needs of multiple-birth families. Over the last 40 years, multiple births in Australia have almost doubled with 9056 multiple-births in 2017, compared to 4740 in 1975. This is a 91 per cent increase. Murdoch Children's Research Institute Honorary Fellow Christie Bolch said the report showed that health knowledge, services and practices have not kept pace with this rise. "Twins -- plus triplets and above -- bring many special experiences. But at every point of contact in our health system these families experience disadvantage, and this is not well recognised," Dr Bolch said. advertisement "There is a pressing unmet need for adequately funded resources for parents of young multiples to address their unique challenges such as increased social isolation, anxiety and depression, inadequate bereavement support when one or more babies do not survive, and caring for infants with special needs." University of Melbourne Director of Twins Research Australia John Hopper said adequate support must be provided to ensure all children receive the best start in life. "These findings demonstrate where our knowledge is lacking -- such as the challenges of staggered discharge for the families of multiple-birth babies, the long-term costs to a family when multiples are born prematurely and the factors that contribute to developmental delays," Professor Hopper said. "We also show how to close these gaps through better research to understand the physical and mental health concerns of these families, improved education for health professionals and parents, and robust polices to address the financial disadvantage experienced." Strategies identified in the report include extended recovery services, special care and postnatal ward policies, as well as better training about the heightened support needs of families with multiples, and structured, multiple-specific early parenting education programs. The full report is entitled, "Multiple perspectives: What support do multiple-birth families need to live happy and healthy lives?" This is a collaboration of Twins Research Australia, the Twins and Multiple Births Association -- UK, the Australian Multiple Birth Association and the International Council of Multiple Birth Organisations. A large study of Swedish men found that those who were even mildly overweight around age 18 were more likely develop cardiomyopathy in adulthood -- an uncommon heart muscle condition that can cause heart failure, according to new research in the American Heart Association's journal Circulation. The study examined data on height, weight and overall fitness from a Swedish registry of 1,668,893 men who enlisted in compulsory military service between 1969 and 2005, when the men were 18 or 19. The researchers then used two other national databases that track the causes of all hospitalizations and deaths in Sweden to determine whether the men had serious heart disease as they aged, and followed them for up to 46 years. "We were interested in studying cardiomyopathies, because heart failure caused by this historically uncommon disorder doubled in Sweden between 1987 and 2006," said Annika Rosengren, M.D., Ph.D. study co-author, professor of medicine at the University of Gothenburg and cardiologist at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden. Among the men in the study, 4,477 were diagnosed with cardiomyopathy at an average age of 45.5 years. The men who were lean at age 18 -- with a body mass index (BMI -- measure of body weight) below 20 -- had a low risk of cardiomyopathy. However, that risk steadily increased as weight increased, even among men on the high end of a normal BMI (22.5-25). There are several types of cardiomyopathy, but the causes are poorly understood. In one form, called dilated cardiomyopathy, the heart muscle becomes weak and can't pump blood efficiently. In another, called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the heart muscle becomes stiff and isn't able to fill with blood properly. Cardiomyopathy can reduce heart function and lead to heart failure, which means the heart is not able to pump blood properly. In the study, men who had a BMI of 35 and over in their youth were eight times more likely to develop dilated cardiomyopathy as adults compared to men who were lean in their youth. It was not possible to estimate increased risk for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in men with BMI 35 and above because there were too few cases to provide a meaningful analysis. Because overall rates of cardiomyopathies are so low, it took a dataset as large and long-term as this one to have enough statistical power to find an association with weight, said Rosengren. She is not aware of other datasets large enough for a comparison study, but she would expect the results of this study to apply to men throughout the world, including the United States, although additional studies would need to be conducted to see if there are racial or ethnic differences in how body weight in adolescence influences the development of cardiomyopathy later in life. The findings may or may not translate to women. The data on weight was gathered when males in Sweden register for compulsory military service. Since women do not register for military service, data on women's weight at around age 18 was not available to the researchers. Co-authors are Josefina Robertson M.D.; Maria Schaufelberger, M.D., Ph.D.; Martin Lindgren, M.D., Ph.D.; Martin Adiels, Ph.D.; Linus Schioler, Ph.D.; Kjell Toren, M.D.; Ph.D., John McMurray, M.D., Ph.D.; Naveed Sattar, M.D., Ph.D.; Maria Aberg, M.D., Ph.D. Author disclosures are on the manuscript. The Swedish state, the Swedish Research Council, the Swedish Heart and Lung Foundation and the Swedish Council for Health, Working Life and Welfare funded the study. Embedded at the end of chromosomes are structures called "telomeres" that in normal cells become shorter as cells divide. As the shortening progresses it triggers cell proliferation arrest or death. Cancer cells adopt different strategies to overcome this control mechanism that keeps track of the number of times that a cell has divided. One of these strategies is the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway, which guarantees unlimited proliferation capability. Now, a research group led by Claus M. Azzalin at Instituto de Medicina Molecular Joao Lobo Antunes (iMM) has discovered that a human enzyme named FANCM (Fanconi anemia, complementation group M) is absolutely required for the survival of ALT tumor cells. The results were now published in the open access journal Nature Communications. Future strategies targeting the activity of this molecule in ALT tumor cells can constitute the basis of a novel therapeutic protocol for the treatment of these tumors. ALT tumors are approximately 10% of the human tumors, and often develop in children (for example, juvenile osteosarcoma) and they are particularly resistant to conventional chemotherapy. "Contrary to the canonical telomere elongation mechanism that activates the enzyme telomerase, these tumor cells specifically use this alternative pathway which is insensitive to therapeutic approaches based on telomerase inhibition," explains Claus M. Azzalin, group leader at iMM. "Previous studies have shown that a sustained physiological telomere damage must be maintained in these cells to promote telomere elongation. This scenario implies that telomeric damage levels be maintained within a specific threshold that is high enough to trigger telomere elongation, yet not too high to induce cell death," says Bruno Silva, first author of this work. Using a series of molecular biology-, cell biology- and biochemistry-based experiments, the research team found an essential role for FANCM, a component of the DNA damage repair machineries of the cell. "What we have found is that ALT cells require the activity of the FANCM in order to prevent telomere instability and consequent cell death," says Bruno Silva. "When we remove FANCM from ALT tumor cells, telomeres become heavily damaged and cells stop dividing and die very quickly. This is not observed in tumor cells that express telomerase activity or in healthy cells, meaning that is a specific feature of ATL tumor cells," explains Claus M. Azzalin. "In our view, this is very exciting because it indicates that transiently drugging FANCM activity in ALT cells should lead to very fast cell death specifically in these cells, and sets the potential basis for an alternative therapeutic protocol for this type of tumors," adds Claus Azzalin. This study was developed at iMM in collaboration with the Genome Stability Unit and the Department of Medicine at St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research and University of Melbourne (Australia) and the Institute of Biochemistry at ETH Zu?rich (Switzerland). This study was supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation, the European Molecular Biology Organization, the Fundac?a?o para a Cie?ncia e a Tecnologia, the Cancer Council of Victoria, Australian National Health and Medical Research Council, the Buxton Trust and the Victorian Government's OIS Program. Parts of Alaska's mountainous Brooks Range were likely transported from Greenland and a stretch of the Canadian Arctic much farther to the east, according to a series of Dartmouth-led studies detailing over 300 million years of Arctic geologic history. The finding updates the geological evolution of the Arctic Ocean and could help revise predictions about the Arctic's oil, gas and mineral wealth. By explaining the formation of the Arctic Ocean in the Western Hemisphere -- known as the Amerasian Basin -- the research provides more clues into the geological history of the rapidly changing region. "This is arguably the most important place for the United States from the perspective of Arctic economic development," said Justin Strauss, an assistant professor of earth science at Dartmouth. "The geology of this region, which is directly connected to its ancient history, will help revise our knowledge about natural resources in the Arctic." The existing model for the formation of the Arctic Ocean along the U.S. and Canada border region details how seismic activity, known as faulting, caused Alaska to rotate away from a western band of islands in the Canadian Arctic starting approximately 125 million years ago. Under this original "rotation" scenario, parts of the Brooks Range should match perfectly with Canada's Banks Island and Victoria Island about 450 hundred miles away. advertisement But after close to ten years studying exposed rocks in the region, the Dartmouth studies show that the area actually contains rocks with origins as far away as 1,200 miles to the east. The results were recently published in a Special Papers series by the Geological Society of America. "The geology of the northeastern Brooks Range does not match anything that we've studied in the neighboring region of North America," said Strauss, the research lead of the study. "This complicates previous models for how you open this major ocean basin." Further confirming the findings, researchers in the study area saw signs of mountain-building processes that are not known to have taken place near the present position of the Brooks Range. This collision of ancient land masses dating from 400-450 million years is more closely associated with tectonic activity in the eastern Arctic. The team believes that the area was formed by a combination of activities including the action of a major strike-slip fault system -- similar to the San Andreas Fault of California -- that transported part of what is now the Brooks Range from Greenland to the western Canadian Arctic Islands. A smaller scale rotation of the land mass farther westward that has been previously recorded may complete the explanation of how northern Alaska was transported to its current location. advertisement "Relationships on the northwestern margin of North America have long been poorly understood and poorly documented," said Bill McClelland, a professor of earth and environmental studies at the University of Iowa and co-investigator of the study. "The results of these studies have significantly enhanced our understanding of the tectonic processes that formed the Arctic margin of North America and will be instrumental in pushing forward on new research frontiers." "Because of its remoteness, the North Slope of Alaska and Yukon has seen limited studies to date," said co-investigator Maurice Colpron, a scientist with the Yukon Geological Survey. "Understanding the area with complete certainty will still take many years of hard work, but these research findings greatly advance our knowledge of the region." As the Arctic continues to open for the development of oil, gas and mineral resources, this new understanding of the region's history could change predictions of how much resource wealth lies in the area. The United States Geological Survey currently estimates that about 6 percent of the world's oil and 25 percent of the world's natural gas are in the Arctic. The region studied by the team lies within the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, an area that some would like to open for oil drilling. In addition to changing the outlook over how much resource wealth exists in the Arctic and where it sits, the research could impact how countries lay claim to those resources. The United States, Russia, Canada and other Arctic countries are all jostling for extended footholds in the region. "If countries are going to make legal claims based on geology or geophysics, they should consider these much older boundaries that we are highlighting. Governments will to need to confront the complexities of geology meeting politics," said Strauss. While magnetic surveys allow researchers to understand how the Arctic's Eurasian Basin over Europe and western parts of Asia was formed, that same data are not as easy to interpret for the Amerasian Basin above North America. The research, funded by the National Science Foundation, is based on the existence of a major fault system in the northern part of North America that has yet to be completely mapped. "This is the area of the Arctic Ocean that still baffles researchers. It's one of the last major ocean basins on the planet that we just do not understand," said Strauss. In future studies, the research team will focus on Canada's Yukon and Ellesmere Island to look for major fault systems. The research will retrace hundreds of millions of years of geological evolution to further explore where this part of Alaska came from and why it landed where it did. Researchers from University of Iowa, West Virginia University, Yukon Geological Survey, Johns Hopkins University and University of Alaska-Fairbanks all contributed to this study. FLORENCE, S.C. Child Development Center at Woods Road students and faculty gathered around the flagpole Tuesday morning to say the Pledge of Allegiance to a new U.S. flag, one that has flown over the South Carolina Statehouse. S.C. Rep. Jay Jordan Jr. presented the flag to center. Floyd Creech, the director of school readiness at Florence One Schools, said the center's previous flag had been destroyed in a hurricane, and the center asked Jordan to get the school a flag from the Statehouse. During the presentation, the school received a certificate with the flag, unfurled the flag and placed it on the flagpole. Then the students and faculty said the Pledge of Allegiance. Creech used the flag presentation as a teaching moment for the children. Creech said in preschool, children are taught about community helpers. A state representative is another type of community helper, Creech said. We thought it was special, Creech said. For the children, we made it really special. ... Creech said Rona Allen, a preschool teacher at the Child Development Center and Jordans sister, was instrumental in getting the flag and helped with the presentation. OTTAWA, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Calian Group Ltd. (TSX: CGY) has again been awarded an eLearning contract with the Department of National Defence (DND) to provide courseware production support services for the Canadian Army. Calian will develop and support courseware projects for the Army Learning Support Centre (ALSC) located in Gagetown, N.B. The contract value is approximately $17 million over a term of approximately three years. Calian and its training partners have been providing eLearning services to ALSC since 2007. This contract enhances ALSC's eLearning production capability with the provision of a full scope of eLearning services including eLearning production, distribution and related support services. Calian has partnered with Bluedrop Performance Learning Inc. and Valcom Consulting Group Inc. to deliver the services. "This contract re-win is a testament to our continued commitment to service delivery excellence and the eLearning projects we build in support of the Canadian Armed Forces advanced training requirements," said Donald Whitty, VP, Calian Training. Through DND training contracts like this one and our work with the Canadian Army Simulation Centre, we continue innovating with our customer with advanced training technologies to help facilitate student learning. "The first pillar of Calian's growth strategy is customer retention. Building on our signature contract re-win last year to deliver training with the Canadian Army Simulation Centre with an estimated value of $170 million over the full nine-year period I am very pleased to see us continue our strong and trusted training relationship with our largest customer, DND, stated Kevin Ford, CEO. Calian is honored to continue to support mission readiness for CAF members. About Calian Training For more than 20 years Calian Training has been providing a full-suite of specialized training services to both public and private sector organizations, including the Canadian Armed Forces and nuclear power operators. We help customers in both the emergency management and military domains validate their plans and team performances. Calians training experts help large and small organizations prepare for events in which the consequences of failure are unacceptable. About Calian Calian employs over 3,200 people with offices and projects that span Canada and global markets. The companys capabilities are diverse with services delivered through two divisions. The Business and Technology Services (BTS) Division is headquartered in Ottawa and includes the provision of business and technology services and solutions to industry, public and government in the health, training, engineering and IT services domains. Calians Systems Engineering Division (SED) located in Saskatoon provides the worlds leading space technology companies with innovative solutions for testing, operating and managing their satellite networks. SED provides leading-edge communications products for terrestrial and satellite networks, as well as providing commercial (including agriculture) and defence customers with superior electronics engineering, manufacturing and test services for both private sector and military customers in North America and Europe. www.calian.com For investor information, please visit our website at www.calian.com or contact us at ir@calian.com Kevin Ford President and Chief Executive Officer 613-599-8600 Patrick Houston Chief Financial Officer 613-599-8600 Media inquiries: Simon Doyle 613-599-8600 x 2205 DISCLAIMER Certain information included in this press release is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties. The results or events predicted in these statements may differ materially from actual results or events. Such statements are generally accompanied by words such as intend, anticipate, believe, estimate, expect or similar statements. Factors which could cause results or events to differ from current expectations include, among other things: the impact of price competition; scarce number of qualified professionals; the impact of rapid technological and market change; loss of business or credit risk with major customers; technical risks on fixed price projects; general industry and market conditions and growth rates; international growth and global economic conditions, and including currency exchange rate fluctuations; and the impact of consolidations in the business services industry. For additional information with respect to certain of these and other factors, please see the Companys most recent annual report and other reports filed by Calian with the Ontario Securities Commission. Calian disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No assurance can be given that actual results, performance or achievement expressed in, or implied by, forward-looking statements within this disclosure will occur, or if they do, that any benefits may be derived from them. FLORENCE, S.C. -- Florence Police have arrested four people and are seeking a fifth in connection with the May 12 armed robbery of the South Irby Street Walmart in Florence. Two people entered the store right before midnight and demanded money, at gunpoint, from a clerk at a register, according to a release from the Florence Police Department. After that the pair left the store and escaped in a car which was waiting for them at the time. Florence Police investigators obtained warrants against five people and have taken four of them into custody, according to the release. Hasaan Lafawn Johnson, 19, of 3487 E. Front Street, Mullins; Jasmine Laquasha Davis, 28, of 114 Prevatte Street, Mullins; and Anthony Reche Epps, 23, 2185 Warner Street, Florence, have since been arrested and charged with armed robbery, according to a release from the agency. All three are being held without bond at the Florence County Detention Center. The document cites Federal Bureau of Prisons "intelligence summaries," which claim that in March 2016, Lindh "told a television news producer that he would continue to spread violent extremist Islam upon his release." The document does not identify the news reporter, and Foreign Policy says there is no "public record" of Lindh participating in media interviews. That doesn't mean it didn't happen, but if the interview exists, now would be a good time to see it. Homegrown violent extremists have long been considered the most difficult to detect and monitor. Lindh's release is likely to give aid and comfort to potential terrorists already in the country and others seeking to enter the United States. There is no indication Lindh has repented of his actions, much less changed his ideology or brand of Islamic extremism. "Treason" is a word that should be used only in cases where an American citizen betrays his country and goes over to the enemy's side. Lindh fits that description. Another problem: The Arms Trade Treaty has a track record of being used by groups to try and overturn sovereign national decisions on arms exports, the White House says. No one who cares about national sovereignty should consent to such an agreement. Just ask the British, who have been sued repeatedly by the activists in the name of the treaty. Then theres the matter of the Second Amendment. Oh, the treatys supporters assure us that the ATT wont affect our right to own guns. But as Mr. Bromund points out, they also refuse to make that clear in the treaty text. So sure, the treaty (at least as now written) is no gun grab. But gun-control activists could still use it to advance their goals. And lets not forget a major flaw in the Arms Trade Treaty, at least if were to take it seriously. China and Russia, both of which are major arms exporters, arent party of the treaty. So President Trump was right to say he was un-signing the Arms Trade Treaty. But we shouldnt stop there. The treaty still has 102 state parties around the world, so the United States should follow up by pulling all U.S. funding from the treaty. Plus, notes Bromund, there are other bad treaties out there like the Arms Trade Treaty. Its time to quit them as well and work to ensure we never get to this point again. Edwin J. Feulner, Ph.D. (@EdFeulner) is the founder and former president of The Heritage Foundation. This piece originally appeared in The Washington Times. OAKLAND, Calif., May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- California BanCorp (OTCQX:CALB), the holding company for California Bank of Commerce (the Bank), has announced the promotion of Vivian Mui from Deputy Chief Credit Officer to Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Credit Officer. Mui will assume her new role on July 1, 2019. She replaces John Lindstedt, who was the Banks founding Chief Credit Officer and has been serving in the position on an interim basis. Lindstedt will continue to advise the Bank as Chief Credit Officer Emeritus. Over the past 12 years, Vivian has added tremendous value to the Banks credit administration function. She has long been a key member of our leadership team and we look forward to the additional positive impact she will contribute to the success of the Bank and its clients in this new role, said Steven Shelton, California Bank of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer. Stephen Cortese, Chairman of the Banks Board of Directors, added, Vivian is uniquely qualified to continue the credit culture that defines California Bank of Commerce. The Bank has long been known in the market for its high quality loan portfolio and client base. Vivian Mui has served in key credit roles since the Banks founding in 2007. Previously, Mui held various lending and credit administration positions at Mechanics Bank. She holds a bachelors degree in economics from University of California, Berkeley and has worked in financial management and commercial banking since 2001. About California BanCorp and California Bank of Commerce California BanCorp, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, California Bank of Commerce, offers a broad range of commercial banking services to closely held businesses and professionals located throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. The stock of its parent company, California BanCorp, trades on the OTCQX marketplace under the symbol CALB. For more information on California BanCorp and California Bank of Commerce, call us at (510) 457-3751, or visit us at www.californiabankofcommerce.com . Contact California Bank of Commerce Steven E. Shelton, (510) 457-3751 President and CEO seshelton@bankcbc.com Thomas A. Sa, (510) 457-3775 Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer tsa@bankcbc.com Vivian Mui, (510) 457-3784 Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Credit Officer vmui@bankcbc.com VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mel Hyatt, the President of the Power Workers Union, welcomes the International Energy Agency (IEA)s call for a global and national commitment to clean, nuclear power. If Canada and the world are to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, we need a national commitment to new nuclear power. Fortunately, Ontario is home to some of the leading nuclear power expertise in the world both in design, engineering, construction, production and operation, said Mel Hyatt. Mr. Hyatt is attending a Vancouver gathering of energy ministers and officials from 25 countries focused on exploring clean energy opportunities. Dr. Biron, the Executive Director of the IEA, called on participants to renew their commitment to nuclear power as part of a larger effort to reduce GHG emissions. Nuclear power provides over 60% of Ontarios baseload electricity power needs. The Province of Ontario has committed to refurbishing existing nuclear reactors at Darlington and the Bruce; this investment has already created thousands of new employment opportunities for young women and men across Ontario. Canadas nuclear expertise is recognized around the globe, and Ontario is the major hub. Canada and Ontario need a comprehensive nuclear power plan that helps us meet our clean energy and economic objectives. It must also include sustainable, good-paying jobs-existing and new, said Mr. Hyatt. Canada can leverage nuclear energy to anchor a low carbon national electricity grid. Moreover, as the IEA report highlights, climate change is a real threat, and a commitment to nuclear power is part of the solution, added Mr. Hyatt. The Power Workers Union represents over 17,000 workers in Ontarios power generation industry and is committed to working with government and industry in making Ontario and Canada a leader in the supply of clean, sustainable and affordable electricity. Media Contact: Paul Reece, Chief of Staff UCSF has abruptly ended three years of negotiations with Dignity Health, halting plans to share branding and medical services with the Catholic hospital chain while calming critics of Dignitys religious restrictions on care. Given the concerns, we will not continue to pursue the affiliation as it had been envisioned, which would have created a stronger link between UCSF Health and Dignity Healths four Bay Area hospitals, UCSF Chancellor Sam Hawgood and UCSF chief executive Mark Laret wrote in a Memorial Day letter to employees. More than 1,500 UCSF doctors and hospital staff signed a petition last month opposing UCSFs effort to expand its two-year collaboration with Dignity Health on grounds that the religious hospitals discriminate against women and LGBT patients. The critics, who have urged the UC regents to end the collaboration altogether, have said they were appalled that UC appeared willing to endorse the Catholic hospitals refusal, to varying degrees, to perform such medical procedures as abortions, sterilizations and transgender surgery. Another group of critics, Americans United for the Separation of Church and State, last month admonished UCSF, a public university hospital, for a proposed expansion it said would violate the First Amendments prohibition against government endorsement of religion. Laret and other supporters of the expansion have said it would help ease overcrowding at UCSF that is so bad that last year the university turned away more than 850 patients transferred from other hospitals, many of whom needed intensive care. Major academic medical centers around the country all are full, Laret told The Chronicle earlier this month, as he made the case for the affiliation. UCSF has affiliated with three Dignity Health hospitals since 2017: St. Marys and St. Francis in San Francisco, and Sequoia in Redwood City, as a way to increase capacity. And since 2016, it has been negotiating for a larger collaboration with those hospitals and to add a fourth, Dominican in Santa Cruz. In an opinion piece arguing for the expansion, Dr. David Teitel, a pediatric cardiologist, and Dr. Dana Gossett, an obstetrician-gynecologist, said the partnership with Dignity would mean that women would have access to a new obstetrics unit, critically needed because UCSF does not have enough beds to meet the growing demand for our care. The doctors and other supporters promised that UCSF would not be influenced by religious prohibitions on care, even though it would not be able to perform many services within the Catholic hospitals walls. None of the assurances was persuasive to opponents, including Evan Minton, a transgender man who told the regents this month about being turned away from a scheduled hysterectomy the day before the surgery when Dignity hospital officials learned that he was transgender. A recent survey about the proposal sent to UCSF faculty yielded 705 responses: 63% opposed, 27% in support, and 10% neutral. Im really pleased that the administration and the leadership have taken seriously the conflict in values that this presented, said Lori Freedman, an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at UCSF who wrote an opposing piece in The Chronicle, noting that Dignity Health follows religious doctrine prohibiting comprehensive reproductive health care, limiting care for transgender individuals and opposing assisted suicide, which is now legal in California. 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. On Tuesday, Freedman said, Im looking forward to finding other ways to solve our problems and strategize around optimally meeting patients needs. Dr. Vanessa Jacoby, the first physician to sign the petition that now has 1,800 names opposing the affiliation, credited the growing chorus of opposition for halting the plan. However, she and Freedman pointed to developments across the country, from President Trumps new regulations allowing health care providers to withhold care on religious grounds, to the criminalization of abortion in Alabama and other states, as another reason to oppose the proposed affiliation. They expressed concern that in their letter to employees, Laret and Hawgood said they will continue looking for ways to work with Dignity Health. We are committed to finding a viable path forward to help meet patient needs and increase access to crucial health services, including in the areas of adolescent and adult psychiatry, surgical services, primary care and cancer care, they wrote. Nanette Asimov is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: nasimov@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @NanetteAsimov TORONTO, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pasinex Resources Limited (CSE: PSE) (FSE: PNX) (The Company or Pasinex) today reported financial results for the first quarter of 2019. As expected, production from Horzum AS was lower than the prior year and combined with lower realized zinc prices in 2019, consolidated net income was lower than 2018. Adjusted consolidated net income for the first quarter of 2019 was $0.5 million. Consolidated loss for the year was $0.2 million reflecting the impact of a $0.5 million impairment on the zinc material used and owing from Akmetal (joint venture partner) to Horzum AS. Highlights Q1 2019 and 2018 (Canadian dollars) First Quarter 2019 2018 Pasinex financial results: Consolidated net income (loss) $ (214,850) $ 726,021 Adjusted consolidated net income(1) $ 455,225 $ 2,412,621 Equity gain from Horzum AS $ 250,055 $ 2,984,186 Adjusted equity gain from Horzum AS(1) $ 920,130 $ 2,984,186 Dividend received from Horzum AS $ 250,055 $ 383,593 Basic net income (loss) per share $ - $ 0.01 Horzum AS operational data (100% basis): Zinc produced (wet) tonnes 6,787 13,037 Zinc sold (wet) tonnes 7,659 12,721 Zinc grade 30% 35% Gross margin(1) 59% 75% C$ cost per tonne mined(1) $ 257 $ 190 US$ cash cost per pound of zinc produced(1) $ 0.31 $ 0.18 (1) Refer to Note 1 Steve Williams, CEO of Pasinex commented, Horzum AS produced as expected and managed its costs diligently so that a strong 59% margin was achieved in the quarter. Drilling continues at Pinargozu to find a parallel oxide system to improve the production estimates for the year. Studies are on-going to determine the appropriate measures to mitigate the excess water at depth so that development can continue to access the higher grade sulphide material. In May, we entered into a legal debt repayment agreement with Akmetal. The agreement requires that a minimum repayment of the debt owing to Horzum As is made on a monthly basis and it strengthens certain control provisions within the joint venture agreement. We will adamantly make certain that Akmetal is maximizing the debt repayments owing to Horzum AS to provide sufficient cash flows to Pasinex. Pasinex Highlights Pasinexs adjusted consolidated net income for the first quarter of 2019 was $0.5 million, which included a $0.9 million adjusted equity gain from Horzum AS. The adjusted equity gain decreased period over period largely due to lower sales volumes at lower realized zinc sales prices (see Horzum AS Highlights below). Q1 2019 adjusted consolidated net income excludes an impairment on a receivable owing from the joint venture partner (Akmetal) to Horzum AS recorded in equity loss. A $0.5 million impairment charge on the receivable from Akmetal was included in equity loss from Horzum AS. The full amount of the receivable owing from Akmetal to Horzum AS was written down to zero in 2018 to reflect significantly increased credit risk. In the first quarter of 2019, Akmetal used approximately 4,000 tonnes of zinc oxide at a cost of approximately $1 million (100% basis). This amount was recorded as a receivable from Akmetal and then written down to zero (see further details below). On May 10, 2019, Pasinex entered into a legally binding debt repayment agreement (Debt Agreement) with Akmetal and Horzum AS. The debt repayments will be made by means of Akmetals delivery of all sulphide zinc and some oxide zinc material from its wholly owned Horzum mine. Horzum AS will sell the material and proceeds from the sale will be used to repay the debts owing. Akmetal will guarantee a minimum of 300 tonnes of zinc material per month. In addition, a portion of proceeds from sale of certain other of Akmetal assets will also be used to repay the debts owing. The Debt Agreement provides a legal mechanism for Horzum AS to receive payment of the debts owing but it still does not demonstrate credit worthiness from Akmetal and as a result the receivable remains written down to zero. The Company will continue to vigorously pursue receipt of funds from Akmetal and reassess the expected credit losses on a regular basis. Any recovery of the receivable will be recorded in the equity gain from Horzum AS. At March 31, 2019 the Companys cash balance was $0.2 million with $0.7 million in current payables, excluding shareholder loans payable. The Company relies on dividends from Horzum AS to fund its spending. The 2019 production forecast for Pinargozu is approximately 19,000 tonnes (half of 2018 production), but in combination with the sale of inventory on hand at January 1, 2019 and the replenishment of inventory used by Akmetal there should be adequate cash flow to fund operations at Horzum AS as well as fund non-discretionary spending at Pasinex for the next twelve months. Drilling will continue through 2019 at Pinargozu to find a parallel oxide system in an effort to increase 2019 production. In May 2019 the Company received an additional $100,000 from a shareholder to pay for certain overdue administration costs. Horzum AS Highlights (described on a 100% basis) The decrease in adjusted equity gain from Horzum AS is a result of the following operational and financial highlights: In 2019, Horzum AS produced 6,787 tonnes (wet weight) of direct shipping material with an average grade of 30% zinc. Mine production was down from 2018 production of 13,037 tonnes reflecting difficulties in gaining access to the available ore. Sales volumes are down between periods, at 7,659 tonnes in Q1 2019 and 12,721 tonnes in Q1 2018, consistent with the lower production. Gross sales decreased to $4.3 million in Q1 2019 from $9.5 million in Q1 2018; a result of lower zinc sulphide sales volumes and lower LME zinc prices in 2019. Total costs per tonne mined in Q1 2019 were $257 per tonne or US$0.31 per pound of zinc produced. This compares to $190 per tonne mined in Q1 2018 or US$0.18 per pound of zinc produced. Although the unit costs are higher than the prior year due to the decreased production, the costs are very competitive as confirmed by a strong gross margin of 59% in the first quarter. Note 1 Please note that all dollar amounts in this news release are expressed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated. Refer also to the year-end 2019 Managements Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) and Audited Financial Statements found on SEDAR.com for more information. This news release includes non-GAAP measures, including adjusted equity gain from Horzum AS, adjusted consolidated net income, gross margin, cost per tonne mined and US$ cash cost per pound of zinc produced. A reconciliation of these non-GAAP measures to the GAAP financial statements is included in the MD&A. About Pasinex Pasinex Resources Limited is a Toronto-based mining company which owns 50% of the producing Pinargozu high grade zinc mine and, under a Direct Shipping Program, sells to zinc smelters / refiners from its mine site in Turkey. The Company also holds an option to acquire 80% of the Spur high-grade zinc exploration project in Nevada. Pasinex has a strong technical management team with many years of experience in mineral exploration and mining project development. The mission of Pasinex is to build a mid-tier zinc company based on its mining and exploration projects in Turkey and Nevada. Visit our web site at: www.pasinex.com On Behalf of the Board of Directors PASINEX RESOURCES LIMITED Steve Williams Steve Williams Evan White President/CEO Manager of Corporate Communications Phone: +1 416.861.9659 Phone: +1 416.906.3498 Email: info@pasinex.com Email: evan.white@pasinex.com The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This news release includes forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause the actual results of the Company to be materially different from the historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although Pasinex believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, continued availability of capital and financing, exploration results, and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. Oakland could become the second city in the country to decriminalize certain natural psychedelics including magic mushrooms if elected leaders approve a resolution that would instruct law enforcement to stop investigating and prosecuting people using the drugs. The resolution is scheduled for its first public hearing before the City Councils public safety committee Tuesday night and could go before the full council as early as June 4. It applies only to psychedelics that come from plants or fungi, not synthetic drugs like LSD or MDMA, also known as ecstasy. Councilman Noel Gallo, who introduced the resolution, said he hopes that the decriminalization of natural psychedelics could help people with mental health issues. We need all the help we can get to deal with the mental health issues that we have, Gallo said. If I can bring it publicly and talk about the benefit and talk about (how it can) deal with the mental illnesses that we have in the city, why not? Gallo said he decided to support the resolution after being approached by Decriminalize Nature Oakland, a community group promoting natural psychedelics for mental health and overall well-being, and became educated on the benefits it could have for those suffering from mental health issues. Council President Rebecca Kaplan said Friday she supports the resolution. I believe we need to continue to support efforts to help end mass incarceration and I recognize that the war on drugs has been a racist, expensive, wasteful failure, Kaplan said. I also believe there are strong public health reasons to support this change. The move comes amid a wave of decriminalization efforts nationwide that some advocates are calling a psychedelic renaissance. Denver voters approved decriminalization of hallucinogenic mushrooms earlier this month, and statewide initiatives are brewing in California and Oregon. The Oakland measure would decriminalize mushrooms containing psilocybin, as well as the psychedelic plants ayahuasca, cacti and iboga. The concept of using natural psychedelics for medical reasons has seen a resurgence of interest in recent years, including from mainstream research institutions that for decades had avoided study of hallucinogens after they were roundly maligned in the 1960s and 70s. Things are starting to roll. Were getting calls from L.A. and other states in the U.S., said Carlos Plazola, a co-founder of Decriminalize Nature Oakland. Theres an international movement and wed like to weigh in for Oakland. Local authorities say they are not alarmed or particularly concerned by the potential decriminalization of psychedelic mushrooms. In Alameda County, the number of arrests made per year for use or possession of psychedelic drugs is low perhaps a dozen per year said Sgt. Ray Kelly, of the countys Sheriffs Office. On the scale of concerns about illicit drugs, theyre not as high up there as meth and coke and heroin and fentanyl, Kelly said. Theyre more down in the recreational drug use category. The only thing we would be concerned about in regards to public safety is obviously someone driving under the influence of psilocybin mushrooms. Just like we are concerned about people driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana or prescription drugs. Plazola and others noted that while there are similarities to preceding efforts to decriminalize and eventually legalize cannabis in California and elsewhere, they recognize that the drugs are different both in how theyre used and their effects on the body and mind. As with cannabis, the first steps are in deprioritizing enforcement of federal laws on psychedelic use. After that, its unclear what the path toward legalization will look like for psychedelics, assuming thats the agreed-upon end goal. Few people want, or expect, psychedelic dispensaries to pop up next door to cannabis shops. What advocates are pushing for now is safe access to drugs that are increasingly seen as potentially paradigm-shifting therapies for a host of mental health issues, from post-traumatic stress and depression to end-of-life despair and addiction. Studies that began four or five decades ago have resurfaced under a new generation of scientists who have taken interest in the mind-bending capabilities of psychedelic drugs. Most of the work is focused on psilocybin, the compound found in psychedelic mushrooms. Research out of Johns Hopkins University has shown that the drug could help people quit smoking. UCSF scientists are studying psilocybin as a possible treatment for long-term AIDS survivors who are feeling general malaise and demoralization. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. The data are really impressive. We should be cautiously but enthusiastically pursuing these threads, said Matthew Johnson, an associate professor in psychiatry and behavior sciences at Johns Hopkins who worked on the smoking cessation research. We want to be aware of overexuberance, but at the same time, we have to avoid falling into a kind of dogmatic skepticism. Johnson said that while he generally supports decriminalization efforts as a human rights issue its widely understood now that low-income people and communities of color are unfairly targeted by drug laws hes wary of full legalization and opening up access to psychedelics in the same way cannabis has been in several states. I dont encourage the use of these things outside of structured settings like our research trials, Johnson said. Decriminalization is not the same thing as saying we encourage use and there are no risks. The risks, though, are not nearly as pronounced as they once were thought, said Johnson as well as proponents of more widespread legalization. A small percentage of people who are already prone to serious mental illness like schizophrenia may be at risk of a psychotic episode. More generally, anyone can have a so-called bad trip that at best is disturbing and at worst could cause them to hurt themselves or others, though those cases are rare, Johnson said. Casual use of psychedelics such as recreationally at a bar or club is of more concern, say scientists like Johnson and those who advocate for improved access. People experiencing a psychedelic trip are vulnerable and may not be able to protect themselves or their belongings. Still, most people pushing decriminalization in Oakland say they would, in fact, like to see more people using psychedelics and not necessarily in a research or traditional medical setting for mental health or just general well-being. The reality is people are already using it and growing it in their homes, its just underground, Gallo said. Where we are today in the city of Oakland we have a great problem when it comes to mental illness. That is what led me to bring this to the table. Erin Allday and Sarah Ravani are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: eallday@sfchronicle.com, sravani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @erinallday, @SarRavani San Francisco officials have a message for homeowners who have long used the steep city-owned parcels in Bernal Heights as an extension of their backyards: Give us our land back. For at least 50 years, property owners bordering Bernal Hill Boulevard have cared for triangular parcels of land as part of an informal agreement with the city. The land separates the homes from Bernal Heights Boulevard, a popular dog-walking destination, a portion of which is closed off to traffic and owned by the Recreation and Park Department. Over the years, property owners built retaining walls to help contain hillside erosion. They cut staircases into the steep terrain, planted flowers and trimmed pine trees and foxtails. Some installed tire swings and play areas. A few built fences on public land, not only for privacy but to keep dogs and kids from tumbling over the steep precipice. Michael Short / Special to The Chronicle Everyone has cultivated these little pieces of land for as long as everyone has lived up here, and it was never an issue, said Mark Sabatino, who has lived at 95 Andover St. for 22 years with his wife, Kathy Sabatino. It was live and let live. But its no longer live and let live. The Recreation and Park Department is now demanding that the parcels be returned to the public, and the controversy is turning some longtime Bernal Hill residents against each another. In the case of 95 Andover St. and the neighboring 168 Moultrie St., Recreation and Park Director Phil Ginsburg has given property owners until the end of May to remove a redwood fence that spans the two properties. If they dont, the city will take down the fence and charge the property owners for the job, Ginsburg said. In a letter to the property owners, Ginsburg said his departments primary responsibility is the stewardship of public parkland for all San Franciscans. On the one side, neighbors and city officials say the dispute is about the privatization of public land. But the fight also raises questions about the rights of property owners to take matters into their own hands when recreation areas are overgrown, neglected or subject to graffiti, littering, public drinking and other nuisances. The Sabatinos, and their next-door neighbor Bev Anderson, say that a fence has been at that location for more than 50 years and that the city always told homeowners they could use the parcels in exchange for taking care of them. The Sabatinos say they spent about $50,000 caring for the land over 22 years. We were told to care for the land, which we did, said Kathy Sabatino. Then, in 2017, the Sabatinos and Anderson built the redwood fence along the street, which cost about $14,000. While there had been a fence there for at least 50 years most recently a chain-link barrier that was falling down the 6-foot-high redwood fence drew some complaints from neighbors who said it was too tall and blocked views. It also sparked criticism from neighbors Bud and Olga Ryerson, Bocana Street residents who started showing up to Rec and Park Commission meetings to complain about the privatization of public land on the hillside. For several years, we have been concerned about the encroachment over Bernal Hill Park, Bud Ryerson told The Chronicle. Michael Short / Special to The Chronicle The construction of the new taller fence in 2017 was egregious, he said. But more important than creating a buffer between the busy boulevard and their house, the fence is a matter of safety, the Sabatinos argue. They say that the area of the park by their house is a frequent spot for drug dealing, prostitution and dumping. In May of 2017, the body of a man who had been shot and his tongue cut out was left by their back door. At least four stolen cars have been set on fire nearby, and fireworks shot off on the hilltop have sparked grass fires. The Sabatinos said they call the police regularly, but the response is either slow or nonexistent. The No. 1 problem is that after dark this place is a whole different animal, said Mark Sabatino. We have a bona fide fear that if the fence comes out its going to be open season on us. 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 2018, the city and the property owners reached a tentative compromise. The Sabatinos agreed to lower the fence to 42 inches, remove private property from the land including a tree house they had built and install a gate that would allow the public to access the property during park hours. But after a car by the fence was set on fire in February, the Sabatinos decided to close the gate. They also didnt take down two sections of side fence the city had asked them to remove. Supervisor Hillary Ronen, who lives a few blocks down the hill from the park and represents the district, said the city has no choice but to open the property. Its unfortunate that this went under the radar for so many years, but once it came to light, its incumbent on Rec and Park to protect the public land for the public good, Ronen said. They would create an awful precedent if they created a special exception. Michael Short / Special to The Chronicle Rec and Park spokeswoman Sarah Madland said the city is investigating several similar issues in other parts of San Francisco and will work through the proper legal process to return the land to public use. For Bev Anderson, 89, the whole saga is baffling. She said that when she bought the property in 1966, a tall redwood fence was already there. That fence was the same height as the current one. Anderson said she doesnt have the money or energy to stand up to the city. I cant afford a lawyer, that is out of the question, and I am not inclined to fight, she said. Ill just take it down. The illegal dumping has always been rampant on the land, Anderson said, and she would continue to clean it up so as not to be ankle deep in garbage. For his part, Mark Sabatino said he is not going to comply with the order. What they are saying is take the fence down and get off our land. ... Its ours now so beat it, he said. They are probably going to come down hard, but I dont know what else we have to lose. J.K. Dineen is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jdineen@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @sfjkdineen San Franciscans will almost certainly be asked a groundbreaking question on the November ballot: Should all city residents be guaranteed the right to quick, effective mental health care? Its clear the citys mental health care system is devastatingly broken. Weve all seen mentally ill homeless people released from San Francisco General still wearing their hospital gowns wandering into traffic or screaming at nobody in particular. But there are also many San Franciscans who struggle with depression, anxiety and other mental health issues in a more private way. They have housing, jobs and medical insurance, but still cant get the treatment they need. Just this month, for example, thousands of mental health clinicians at Kaiser voted to authorize a strike if staffing levels arent boosted to ensure patients can get quicker mental health treatment. People at both ends of this spectrum and every San Franciscan in between would be covered under a proposed program called Mental Health SF. Its a twist on the 12-year-old Healthy San Francisco program, the first of its kind in the country, that ensured medical care for nearly every city resident. The proposal would expand the promise to ensure mental illness and addiction are also covered. Its backers say it would likely be the most comprehensive approach to mental health care in any American city. Its the, well, brainchild of Supervisors Hillary Ronen and Matt Haney and also has support from Supervisors Gordon Mar and Shamann Walton. Theyll introduce the proposal at the June 4 meeting of the Board of Supervisors and ask city voters in November for their approval. The measure would need just a simple majority. In a city with huge income disparity, theyll attempt to fund the operating costs with a new gross receipts tax on those companies that pay their CEOs upward of 100 times more than the median compensation paid to employees. That proposal, probably on the November or March ballot, would need the support of two-thirds of voters. In a city that once embraced big, creative plans, this is a refreshing idea. From Healthy San Francisco to same-sex marriage to free City College, City Hall has long backed innovative ideas. But not so much when it comes to mental health care and drug abuse at least not lately. (City officials do support opening a safe-injection site, but are waiting for state approval and its opening, if it happens, is still far off.) Our so-called progressive city has become so paralyzed in this arena, it has allowed our sidewalks to turn into de facto psychiatric wards and injection drug sites. While City Hall plays around the edges, adding some treatment beds here and creating a new high-paid position there, the misery festers. San Francisco has the opportunity to lead, to say, This should be a right for everybody. Were going to build a system around it, Haney said. Its going to be messy as we figure it out, but we have to figure it out. We have the values. We should have the resources. We just need the leadership. Granted, its a big dream, and one with many kinks to work out. For example, only those well enough to know they need treatment would be cared for under Mental Health SF, but more on that later. Mental Health SF would center around the construction of a new treatment center, probably on the campus of San Francisco General Hospital, that would be open every day, around-the-clock. It would open by June 1, 2022. Ronen and Haney said they dont know how much construction would cost, but have asked Mar to commit half of the revenue from his IPO tax, also pegged for November, to build it. Mar has estimated the tax would raise between $100 million to $200 million in the first two years. Any city resident needing mental health or substance abuse treatment could walk in and receive quick access to psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, case managers and a pharmacy. There would be an acute crisis wing with beds for those who are so ill that they cant safely be released. Patients would be divided into two categories. Bridge patients would be those with private insurance or Medi-Cal who are having a hard time getting an appointment with a psychiatrist or a prescription written. The treatment center would help them and seek reimbursement from their insurance company. Core patients would be those newly released from jail, uninsured people or others who need longer-term care provided by the city. Both sets of patients would be paired with a navigator who would help them obtain the care they need. Mental Health SF would also create a new Office of Coordinated Care within the Department of Public Health to better link all the disparate treatment facilities and a working group to figure out how to expand treatment beds throughout the system. The plans backers say it would cost the city an estimated $40 million to $60 million annually to staff the center and the Office of Coordinated Care. The idea is to pull in additional federal dollars for substance abuse treatment and state Medi-Cal funds. Assemblyman Phil Ting has signed on to help find ways to direct more state money to the project. Ronen and Haney said theyre hopeful the program would actually save money in the long term, which isnt too far-fetched considering the Department of Public Health spends $370 million annually on mental health care and substance abuse treatment. While any additional taxes to pay for the program would need voter approval, Ronen and Haney dont have to go to the ballot just to create Mental Health SF. But because they are so disenchanted with the Department of Public Healths performance, they want a binding mandate from voters. Grant Colfax, the new director of the Public Health Department, said he hadnt yet seen the proposal and couldnt comment. But he has said that he knows much needs to change. For example, his department says it serves 30,000 mental health patients yearly and yet so many are still on our streets in obvious distress. If we keep doing the same things weve been doing, then were not going to address this gap, Colfax said in April. One clear problem: Theres too little follow-up. Even many of those brought by police to San Francisco General Hospital for a 72-hour hold because they pose a danger to themselves or others dont get care after theyre discharged. Staff in the cramped, dingy psychiatric emergency room which is licensed for just 18 beds have called it a car wash because they quickly clean up patients before sending them on their way. 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. For those voluntarily seeking help, there is no central waiting list for care, and patients and their families must seek out information from each clinic or treatment facility on their own. The Department of Public Health has no centralized tracking system to monitor all the nonprofits and city programs providing treatment. If patients do receive care, there are too few beds at every step of the system. For example, 44% of patients released from 90-day residential treatment facilities are sent back to the streets where their mental health problems and drug addictions are likely to resurface. The system is completely broken, and its a mess, Ronen told me. Not only does the Department of Public Health not admit theres a problem, instead of spending their time generating a vision and a plan to fix the system, theyre spending all of their time trying to hide the fact that there is a problem. To be fair, Ronen hasnt supported San Francisco Mayor London Breeds push for expanded conservatorship, which would allow the city to compel more seriously mentally ill and drug-addicted people into treatment. The Mental Health SF plan would only help those who are well enough to know they need help. Still, Ronen said she could envision police officers using the treatment center as a carrot as opposed to the stick of jail time for mentally ill people or those on drugs caught committing low-level crimes. It seems like the system would be improved if the ideas were paired mandate treatment for those in clear crisis and offer quicker care for them and everyone else. Also, Ronen and Haney havent done much about the citys tacit acceptance of injection drug users shooting up on our sidewalks. They said the city shouldnt permit it and that drug users, too, can come to the treatment center and receive help. But it will take action from the supervisors and mayor to change the culture of blatant drug use on our streets. Steve Fields is the director of Progress Foundation, which operates treatment facilities for mentally ill people, and has been working on improving our mental health system for 40 years. He said the Mental Health SF idea has been germinating for a long time, but has never come to fruition. He said while many programs offered by the city are excellent, their coordination and coherence is poor. Patients cant easily gain access or even figure out how to get on waiting lists or how long those lists are. The idea of a triage services center is as good an idea as Ive heard for providing that kind of coherence, he said. Clients know they can show up and get immediate services. He said the ambitious plan could be a game changer. Goodness knows we need one. San Francisco Chronicle columnist Heather Knight appears Sundays and Tuesdays. Email: hknight@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @hknightsf Hoping to advance another front in the fight against climate change, a Bay Area energy nonprofit plans to harness the powers of space technology and machine learning to make a trove of planet-warming emissions data publicly available. WattTime, a technology and clean energy firm in Oakland, is partnering with two other organizations on an ambitious project to track carbon emissions from large power plants across the globe. Backed by a $1.7 million grant from Googles philanthropic arm, the project hopes to make the information readily accessible to anyone within the next few years. WattTime and its partners will draw on satellite images, which can capture visible plumes emitted by power plants, that will be analyzed by artificial intelligence technology. The project will also use data from various sensors, including thermal infrared devices that can detect heat. While California air quality regulators, for example, already require power plants to report data about their greenhouse gas emissions, WattTime and its partners want to go a step further and more robustly monitor pollution with eyes in the sky. It all comes at a crucial time for efforts to thwart climate change, as the amount of carbon dioxide in Earths atmosphere has reached a record high. The main thing were trying to focus on for the project is what is currently leading to a rise in emissions and how can we get that data into the right hands of stakeholders and citizens, said Chiel Borenstein, WattTimes director of operations. WattTimes partners are Carbon Tracker, a London financial think tank, and World Resources Institute, an international research organization in Washington. Carbon Tracker has experience monitoring power plants with satellites, and the resources institute maintains a global database of power plants. The organizations will start by building an early, limited version of their project using public satellite imagery, but theyll probably need to expand that using commercial satellites, said Matt Gray, a senior analyst for utilities and power at Carbon Tracker. Its certainly a challenge, Gray said of the projects overall goals. But it is so important that this information is liberalized and made available to the public so they not only know the health implications of operating these facilities, but also the long-term impact from a climate perspective. Rob Jackson, a Stanford University earth scientist unaffiliated with the project, called the WattTimes plan very promising. Satellite technology is advancing to the point where it will soon allow for close monitoring of carbon emissions and even methane from power plants, though its not quite there yet, he said. Thats OK though, Jackson said. Within three to five years, they and many groups around the world will have access to data in real time, so I like what theyre doing. I think were a few years away from them being able to do what they described. Public power plant emission tracking will let companies that operate the facilities have better information about their products and will help governments and their citizens see whos performing better and relatively worse, Jackson said. As satellite technology continues to advance, very soon, there will be nowhere for people to hide, he said. Power plants are required to report emission data to the California Air Resources Board, but better in-the-moment monitoring would probably require the use of satellites, said Dave Clegern, a spokesman for the regulatory agency. Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes Board officials are aware of WattTimes plans. Right now, were just interested in watching what theyre doing, and if the data is available, we obviously will take a look at it and may end up factoring it in somehow, Clegern said. Our interest, primarily, is going to be total emissions. The World Resources Institute has not encountered any significant objections to the power plant data it has already assembled, said senior associate Johannes Friedrich. In fact, other parties have so far proven collaborative. We were actually surprised that a number of organizations, researchers as well as sometimes utility companies came to us and said, actually we have better data, Friedrich said. We havent had any situations ... where we were asked to take data offline. As important as the major power plant data will be, Friedrich stressed that it is only one perspective in a larger piece of the electricity sector. Going forward, he said his group would like to be more involved in areas such as transmission line mapping, to get a wider view of electric infrastructure, as well as energy efficiency. The WattTime project does not plan to look at other sources of carbon emissions beyond power plants, such as refineries, based on its current funding level. It will probably start with a more limited look at large power plants and then expand to include a broader list in a future phase, according to WattTime. J.D. Morris is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jd.morris@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @thejdmorris A group of Napa entrepreneurs from the wine and weed industries are seeking to make it legal to grow cannabis in the county for sale in stores. They turned in signatures Tuesday in a bid to put a measure on the March 2020 ballot. The petition gathered around 8,100 signatures, more than the 6,635 needed, according to the Napa Valley Cannabis Association, which wants cannabis and wine to coexist and counts vintners among its members. It asked voters if they support a proposed initiative that would greenlight cultivation of the plant for commercial use in unincorporated areas, which include more than 90% of Napa County. Though marijuana is legal in California, Napa County has enacted legislation that bans companies in the business of growing, processing or selling weed from setting up shop in the region. But members of the cannabis association argue theres room for both cash crops. Ive heard friends in other counties say, Were going to be the Napa of cannabis. I say, Napa should be the Napa of cannabis, said Eric Sklar, a founding member of the trade group. He left the wine industry a decade ago and now owns a Lake County company that grows marijuana as well as a dispensary, Napa Valley Fume (not to be confused with the Napa restaurant of the same name). State law allows residents to grow up to six marijuana plants inside their homes for personal use. Napa County has one dispensary, a Napa store that sells cannabis for medical use only, and no licensed growers or distributors. After the state legalized pot in 2016, county supervisors put a temporary ban on commercial cannabis activity and outdoor cultivation in the unincorporated area. That ban was renewed in January 2018 and is still in effect. Sklar, whose company grows cannabis north of his St. Helena home in Lake County, said the trade group decided to forge ahead with a ballot measure potentially skirting the countys board of supervisors, in doing so 2 years after the state legalized marijuana. Members of the association have met with supervisors, invited them to industry events and tried to put the issue on the boards meeting agenda for months, without success, according to the groups president, Stephanie Honig, who leads public relations and international sales for the Honig Vineyard and Winery in Rutherford. They say the Board of Supervisors has refused to come to the bargaining table. Two and a half years is plenty of time to give them a chance to do their job, Sklar said, adding: We ran out of patience, frankly. Supervisor Diane Dillon said the board has put off tackling this issue as it grapples with other priorities, including housing, fire recovery and construction of a $128 million jail. Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes We have limited revenues. ... We therefore have limited staff time, she said in an email. We cant add things to the to do list just because a small group of people wants us to do so. We must prioritize based on the greater good. Supervisor Ryan Gregory, chairman of the board, said the issue is popular with residents. Nearly two-thirds of Napa County voters said yes to marijuana legalization in the 2016 election. Cannabis is coming whether people like it or not, said Honig, whose family has grown grapes in Napa County for three generations, though it doesnt plan to get into the marijuana business. Its not a question of if. Its a matter of how. Melia Russell is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: melia.russell@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @meliarobin After 37 years in a building whose gold plaque promises fair play and a square deal, old-school San Francisco bar Eddie Rickenbackers will close next month a casualty, its co-owner said, of a rent increase. San Francisco restaurateur Dennis Leary and business partner Eric Passetti are taking over the space at 133 Second St., with plans to open a bar with food called Henry Africa. Its named after former Rickenbackers proprietor Norman Hobday, the San Francisco saloonist who passed away in 2011. Hobday opened a fern bar by that name in 1969 and later changed his legal name to Henry Africa as well. Weve chosen the name Henry Africa because we want to do our part to maintain some sort of historical continuity from past to present in downtown S.F., which as we all know is under threat, Leary said via email. Eddie Rickenbackers, named for the ace World War I fighter pilot and Medal of Honor recipient, will serve its last burger and beer in mid-June. Plans to open an outpost in the Transbay transit center are in the works. No opening date has been given. This is one of those situations where you feel the hardship of doing business in San Francisco. With so many things increasing in cost, its hard to start something and maintain it, said co-owner Noelle Calixto. We have a new location coming up, but not every place has that luxury. Calixto took over Eddie Rickenbackers with local restaurateur Rick Howard roughly six years ago. One of the first things they did was scale back the places kitschy decor, including Tiffany lamps and motorcycles hanging from ceiling. Today the interior is filled with wood surfaces and black leather stools and booths. The business was profitable over the years, Calixto said, adding that while the crowds were consistent, rent tripled. The bars lease comes to an end next month, and Calixto said the landlord offered the owners a short-term lease with a 42% rent increase. Six years ago, the rent for the bar was $8,500 a month, and the proposed agreement was for $25,000 a month, Calixto said. Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. Ken Epstein, landlord for the Second Street space, has not responded to a request for comment. Leary is known for his talent as a chef, but since 2013 he has focused on developing bars, including Tequila Mockingbird, Natoma Cabana and Cafe Terminus. At Henry Africa, hell be back in the kitchen. So, as Eddie Rickenbackers was Normans final bar and Henry Africa his first, we hope this gesture brings his legacy full circle, Leary said. Its going to be a fun project, and Im looking forward to cooking again after five years in the wilderness. Justin Phillips is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jphillips@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JustMrPhillips Description GIS 28 May 2019: The Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium, Mr. Peter Van Acker , paid, today, a courtesy call 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 after the meeting, Mr Peter Van Acker , said that the meeting with the Prime Minister was cordial and fruitful adding that discussions focused on the Chagos issue. He expressed the wish that both the United Kingdom and Mauritius find a solution based on the verdict of the International Court of Justice. He also spoke on the challenges facing the tourism sector, and added that both Mauritius and Belgium should work together to find ways to attract more tourists to the island. It is to be noted that around 15 000 Belgian tourists visit Mauritius annually. Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium, Mr. Peter Van Acker is presently on an economic mission to Mauritius along with six Belgian enterprises with a view to collaborate closely with Mauritian enterprises and further promote economic development. Description GIS 28 May 2019: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) must make the most of the schemes available at SME Mauritius so as to be able to be more competitive and expand their activities, emphasised the Minister of Business, Enterprise and Cooperatives, Mr Soomilduth Bholah, during a site visit at Food Works Ltd, this morning, in Quatre Bornes. The site visit was organised by SME Mauritius, in collaboration with the Ministry of Business, Enterprise and Cooperatives, as part of its communication and SME Proximity Programme. In a statement to the press after the visit, the Business Minister pointed out that there is also an array of training programmes available in other institutions such as the National Productivity and Competitiveness Council, which can help SMEs in their process and work flow. According to him, Food Works Ltd has already benefited from several schemes available at SME Mauritius and has also adhered to the Made in Moris label, thus benefiting from more visibility on the market. Minister Bholah pointed out that the objective of his visits at SMEs is to give them more visibility as well as motivate them in their endeavours, and to show that the Ministry and SME Mauritius are by their side. He added that these site visits also help to take stock of the difficulties faced by SMEs in addition to commending them for their good work. He further observed that Food Works Ltd has limited space for its operations and the Ministry and SME Mauritius will assist the company in finding free space on existing industrial sites for it to expand its activities. Food Works Ltd, incorporated in 2007, is an SME engaged in the production of frozen pizzas, pies, lasagna, chilled salads and soup, among others. The company employs ten people and sells its products in several supermarkets, restaurants chains and hotels across the island. The company generates a yearly turnover of some Rs 10 million and is a model for SMEs which help the population through their economic activities. California is home to more immigrants than any other state in the nation, and manages the worlds most active border crossing in San Ysidro. Today, we serve as a primary destination for thousands of women and children who are seeking aid at our border, many of whom are referred to immigration court. There, they will all meet the sobering reality that their chances of retaining a pro bono attorney, and consequently having a fair chance at challenging their deportation, are slim. The most significant challenge for immigrants in removal proceedings is the fact that they are not guaranteed an attorney, even though the stakes in immigration court can be just as high as any criminal proceeding. In fact, an immigration judge once noted that the circumstances of immigration court amount to death penalty cases heard in traffic court settings. For those who find themselves in these dire circumstances, access to legal counsel is key. In 2014, a Stanford Immigrant Rights Clinic report focusing specifically on legal representation in the Bay Area highlighted the critical effect access to counsel can have on immigration proceedings. Individuals who were detained during their removal proceedings were three times more likely to obtain relief when afforded access to counsel. Despite this glaring need, the report also noted that two-thirds of detained individuals had no legal assistance during their proceedings. California immigration, by the numbers 52% proportion of school-aged children with one or more immigrant parents 150,000 immigration cases backlogged in four immigration courts 48% increase in immigration cases since fiscal year 2017 Source: Public Policy Institute of California; Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University See More Collapse In recognition of this need, California lawmakers have approved nearly $50 million in funding for legal services in our state, an important first step in addressing this issue. To date, the largest challenge has been developing organizational and training capacity to take advantage of these funds for deportation defense. We simply do not have enough organizations that qualify to receive this funding, particularly in regions like the Central Valley and the Central Coast where the need is high, but resources are low. These areas are home to the highest concentration of vulnerable immigrants and some of the most aggressive enforcement actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. That is why as a lawmaker, I am calling for the establishment of the California Immigrant Justice Fellowship. If approved, it would be the first state-sponsored legal-fellow training program to increase removal defense representation for residents in the nation. This program would leverage the legal resources and experience of organizations in the Bay Area to serve as training opportunities for new attorneys before they begin their fellowship at organizations in places such as Fresno and Watsonville (Santa Cruz County). We must create a pipeline of experience, mentorship and most of all attorneys to these underserved regions of our state, and we must do this now as the challenges continue to mount. Californias immigration courts have the longest backlog in the nation, with nearly 150,000 cases in court and some individuals waiting more than three years before their hearings are scheduled. In fact, the number of cases in California has increased 48 percent since 2017, and will likely continue to rise as a reflection of the demographic realities of the state. The federal government is looking for sites to add private detention centers in California that could house 5,600 migrants. Contracting directly with ICE would sidestep a 2017 California law that barred local governments from leasing their jail facilities to for-profit detention center companies. Fifty-two percent of school-aged children in California have one or more immigrant parents. Any promise of opportunity offered to the next generation must necessarily account for the reality that a great number of our children will confront the loss of a parent to deportation unless we act now. To defend our communities, we must speak with one voice in denouncing the expansion of for-profit immigration detention facilities in California. We must also recognize that immigration courtrooms, where so many of our families stand alone, are truly the front lines of this battle. While we still have a long way to go in the area of immigration as a country and a state, the goal is unequivocal: Guaranteeing that residents of our state irrespective of income or ZIP code have access to just and fair representation. Immigration has long been the backbone of our nations economy fostering a culture of innovation. Throughout history, California has always been at the forefront of protecting the rights of immigrants. However, despite California cities local opposition, recent reports have emerged that ICE continues to expand its deportation and detention facilities under the direction of the Trump administration. At the core of the Trump administration is a war on immigrants, an attack on justice and the erosion of due process in immigration law. As elected leaders, we must devote our efforts to ensuring that legal support and guidance are available to all, particularly in the rural regions and the most vulnerable communities of our state. Melissa Hurtado, a Democrat, represents Californias 14th Senate District, which encompasses portions of the southern Central Valley, including parts of Fresno and Bakersfield. Prior to being elected to the state Senate, she was a city councilwoman in Sanger (Fresno County). 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At least thats what it said on The San Francisco Chronicle letters page, where an irate reader was protesting plans for the Palace Hotel the new tallest building in San Francisco. At all of seven stories and 120 feet, the unnamed author said, it would block views and be a blight on the skyline for generations. It may be too late, but we hope not, to improve on this lamentable state of things, the unsigned letter finished. I think about this letter every time a new outside-the-city publication calls the time of death on San Francisco, most recently the Washington Posts How San Francisco broke Americas heart. The stories, particularly the recent ones, share similar hallmarks: A legacy business that is closing down as if legacy businesses havent closed and opened for a century. A sense that the city is rotting from the inside as if rot in San Francisco is a new symptom and not a historical near-constant. Chronicle archives / And theres focus on two or three of the citys current struggles as if San Francisco is a city that will live and die by rising property values or a restaurant closing or the fate of a Navigation Center for the homeless. The death of San Francisco is an illusion, and it always has been. San Francisco is a stunningly beautiful and continuously innovative city, cursed to always be considered one or two generations past its peak, like a rowboat chasing the horizon. As seen by the vocal cynic, the soul of San Francisco is always just one tall building or comedy club closure or homemade ravioli shortage away from some arbitrary point of no return. Displacement is a serious issue, and the wealth disparity thats driving teachers and artists and citizens of color out of the city is a challenge thats worth the attention it receives. But its ridiculous to celebrate a mythic golden era, when the city has been a coexisting constant of highs and lows throughout time. Did San Francisco possess a better soul in the 1950s, when authorities shut down gay bars and harassed patrons, and neighbors pressured a seller to ban Willie Mays from buying a house because of the color of his skin? Did the city possess a better soul in the 1960s, when city leaders and the media treated a peaceful and influential counterculture movement like a crime wave? Did the city possess a better soul in the 1970s, when the number of murders in San Francisco (146 in 1973) was more than triple the most recent figure, and the political elite supported a cult leader who was ultimately responsible for more than 900 deaths? How San Francisco broke Americas heart isnt the first time San Francisco has been written about in the past tense. Gary Fong / The Chronicle Will Irwin did it on April 18, 1906, writing The City that Was, beginning the day an earthquake and fire destroyed much of San Francisco. Irwins obituary of the city, published in the New York Sun, described the death of a perfect San Francisco that hadnt existed, the gayest, most lighthearted, most pleasure-loving city on the western continent ... a city of romance and the gateway to adventure. The city rebuilt itself better than before, and Irwin spent most of the rest of his long life apologizing. (In actuality, the city before the quake was largely lawless and politically corrupt.) When Irwin caught up to Herb Caen in 1946, less than two years before the reporters death, Irwin coined a phrase that has since been wrongly attributed to Caen. San Francisco isnt what it used to be, Irwin told The Chronicle columnist. And it never was. But The City that Was spawned a genre, and everything from the invention of radio to rock n roll to Sutro Tower to video game arcades to electric scooters has been blamed for the demise of San Francisco. The latest high-profile round of outside-publications-discover-San Francisco articles arrived about five years ago. Jessica Christian / The Chronicle Theres absolutely nothing wrong with steeling up for a good fight. This city has stayed extraordinary because of the populations willingness to battle to preserve beauty, show humanity toward the oppressed and work together to rebuild through the ashes. But theres a real problem when the writing promotes a belief that the fight is already over. More from the Archive The Vault Home of the San Francisco Chronicle's archive and more than 150 years of journalism covering the Bay Area and beyond. And unlike all the previous generations who were told that San Francisco isnt what it used to be, our current technologies amplify that point, until the illusion of defeat becomes the prevailing mind-set. Look at the social media headlines and San Francisco appears to be a hellscape. Its all burnt-out shacks selling for a small fortune (See what $650,000 can buy in San Francisco!) and photos of smashed electric scooters being thrown into the sea. What were missing, as this skewed picture becomes national news, is equal time for the sense of joy and wonder and creativity and allure that continue to exist in the city. Mourn for the institutions that leave us while recognizing that new ones are being born every day. Fight the corrupt or misguided impulses of our leaders with the understanding that the city has been shaped and bettered by similar battles in the past. Jessica Christian / The Chronicle I dont want the author of the Washington Post piece, or her editors, to feel shame. But I want them to know that a trip to The Chronicle archive would have revealed that their San Francisco-is-a-train-wreck thesis was actually part of a skipping record that goes back at least 135 years. And a simple ride on a random Muni line that passes through multiple neighborhoods we suggest the 5 Fulton or 43 Masonic would allow anyone to see the illusion for what it is. San Francisco still has most of the same sights. San Francisco has many of the same people. San Francisco is still a journey filled with moments of unexpected majesty and kindness and compassion. And, as always, a city brimming with soul. Peter Hartlaub is The San Francisco Chronicles pop culture critic. Email: phartlaub@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @PeterHartlaub Upcoming political events in the Bay Area: WEDNESDAY Japanese American incarceration: KALW-FMs public affairs show Your Call tapes a live show exploring the connections between Japanese American incarceration during World War II and modern threats to civil liberties. Free. 6 p.m., David Brower Center, 2150 Allston Way, Berkeley. More information is here. Food system equity: A conversation about access, affordability and equity in the food system. Speakers include Danielle Nierenberg of Food Tank, Chronicle food writer Justin Phillips, Tom Philpott of Mother Jones, Leigh Gaymon-Jones of the Castanea Fellowship and Chez Panisse founder Alice Waters. $25. 7 p.m., SFJAZZ, 201 Franklin St., San Francisco. More information is here. Eyewitness Venezuela: Antiwar activist Gloria La Riva, just returned from a month-long trip to Venezuela, speaks about the situation there. Sponsored by ANSWER Coalition. $5-$10. 7 p.m., 2969 Mission St., San Francisco. More information is here. Future of democracy: On how digital democracy is rewriting democratic politics. Panelists include David Ernst, CEO of Liquid.US; Agatha Bacelar, candidate for Congress for the San Francisco seat held by Rep. Nancy Pelosi; David Evan Harris, a mixed media sociologist and chancellors public scholar at UC Berkeley; and Joshua Krafchin, co-founder of Swing Left and Democracy Hacker. $6. 7:30 p.m., Mannys, 3092 16th St., San Francisco. More information is here. THURSDAY Green New Deal: A forum to discuss strategies and action leading up to the 2020 election, hosted by Better World Associates. $20. 2 p.m., Delancey Street Foundation, 600 Embarcadero, San Francisco. More information is here. Life after release: A panel discussion on removing barriers facing formerly incarcerated people, sponsored by TechEquity Collaborative. $10. 6:30 p.m., 344 Thomas L. Berkley Way, Oakland. More information is here. SB50: Why it wont substantially increase affordable housing Michael Storper, a UCLA professor of economic geography, on why the stalled state legislation would mainly create more high-end housing and increase displacement. Free. 7 p.m., San Francisco LGBTQ Center, 1800 Market St., San Francisco. More information is here. Rep. Anna Eshoo: South Bay Democrat holds a town hall meeting, open to constituents in her district. Guest speaker is Jessica Rosenworcel, a Federal Communications Commission member. 7 p.m., Villa Ragusa, 35 South Second St., Campbell. RSVP required here. FRIDAY Rep. Adam Schiff: House Intelligence Committee chairman speaks in a Commonwealth Club event. $35 for nonmembers, $15 for students. 7 p.m., Sydney Goldstein Theater, 275 Hayes St., San Francisco. More information is here. FRIDAY-SATURDAY There are several events Friday and Saturday connected to the California Democratic Party convention in San Francisco: FRIDAY Elizabeth Warren town hall: Democratic presidential candidate hosts a town hall. 7:30 p.m., Laney College gymnasium, 900 Fallon St., Oakland. More information is here. United Resistance Democratic Party: Hosted by San Francisco Assemblymen David Chiu and Phil Ting. Sponsored by San Francisco Eastern Neighborhoods Democratic Clubs. 8 p.m., 1355 Market St., San Francisco. More information is here. SATURDAY Impeach on the Beach: A human banner spelling out Impeach. 11 a.m., Ocean Beach near the Cliff House. More information is here. Dem Party Resistance Organization: Panel discussions on collaborations between resistance activists and the Democratic Party going into the 2020 elections. Free. 12:30 p.m., Galvanize, 44 Tehama St., San Francisco. More information is here. Bernie Sanders rally: Candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination holds a rally. 5 p.m., Arena Green East, 340 West St. John St., San Jose. More information is here. Avance Democratic Club's Zona Azul Reception: In partnership with ILWU International. 8 p.m., Parc 55, 55 Cyril Magnin St., San Francisco. More information is here. Crazy, Political Asians: A party hosted by the legislative Asian and Pacific Islander Leadership PAC and Asian Americans Rising PAC. Access code required for tickets: Click here for more information. 9 p.m., St. Josephs Arts Society, 1401 Howard St., San Francisco. SUNDAY Marin and state housing law: What AB686, a state law requiring every California city and county to identify and address disparities in housing and access to opportunities, means for Marin County, local control and zoning. Free. 2:30 p.m., San Rafael Community Center, 618 B St., San Rafael. More information is here. TUESDAY George Shultz: Former secretary of state in conversation with Commonwealth Club President Gloria Duffy. $40 for nonmembers. $15 for students. Noon, Marines Memorial Theatre, 609 Sutter St., San Francisco. More information is here. Ukraines future: Yaroslav Hrytsak, history professor and director of the Jewish studies program at Ukrainian Catholic University in Lviv, discusses the countrys recent elections and its future. $20, $7 students. 6:30 p.m., World Affairs Council, 312 Sutter St., Suite 200, San Francisco. More information is here. Political correctness: What does it mean in 2019? A discussion with Loretta Breuning, author of How I Escaped Political Correctness and You Can Too. $25. 7:30 p.m., Courtyard by Marriott, 2500 Larkspur Landing Circle, Larkspur. More information is here. JUNE 5 Political art: Oakland Art Murmur hosts a speaker event about the confluence of art and politics. $15. 6 p.m., the Crown: Royal Coffee Lab and Tasting Room, 2523 Broadway, Oakland. More information is here. JUNE 6 Georgian prime minister: Mamuka Bakhtadze, prime minister of Georgia, speaks at the Commonwealth Club. $15, $10 for students. Noon, 110 Embarcadero, San Francisco. More information is here. JUNE 7 State Sen. Scott Wiener: San Francisco Democrat discusses his SB50 and other regional housing issues, in an event sponsored by Palo Alto Forward, SV@Home, the Housing Leadership Council and the TechEquity Collaborative. Free. 7 p.m., Lucie Stern Community Center, 1305 Middlefield Road, No. 1, Palo Alto. More information is here. JUNE 8 World Naked Bike Ride: Riding naked to protest big oil and call attention to need for renewable-energy advances. 11 a.m., starts from near the Ferry Building in San Francisco. More information is here. JUNE 10 YIMBY Neoliberal: Guest speaker is Sam Moss, executive director of Mission Housing Development Corp. Free. 6:30 p.m., 1260 Mission St., San Francisco. More information is here. JUNE 11 Shannon Watts: Founder of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America in conversation for the Sonoma Speaker Series. $35. 7 p.m., Hanna Boys Center, 17000 Arnold Drive, Sonoma. More information is here. JUNE 12 New citizen voting: Democracy Action volunteers will register new citizens to vote following swearing-in ceremonies. Two sessions, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway, Oakland. More information is here. JUNE 13 Green New Deal: A town hall meeting focused on project ideas and possible legislation for implementing a Green New Deal. 6:30 p.m., 1213 Newell Road, Embarcadero Room, Palo Alto. More information is here. JUNE 14 Rep. Eric Swalwell: Democratic presidential candidate in conversation at the Commonwealth Club. $30 nonmembers, $10 students. 6:30 p.m. 110 Embarcadero, San Francisco. More information is here. Lateefah Simon and Michael Tubbs: Racial justice advocate Lateefah Simon and Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs in a conversation to discuss politics, spirituality, justice and the future. $6-$12. 7 p.m., Mannys, 3092 16th St., San Francisco. More information is here. JUNE 15 Women of color candidates: Democratic Reps. Barbara Lee of Oakland and Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts on women of color running for office. Free. Noon, Beebe Memorial Cathedral, 3900 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. More information is here. Criminal justice reform: A discussion hosted by the Libertarian Party of San Francisco. Panelists include Matt Gonzalez, chief attorney of the San Francisco public defenders office, and Reason magazine associate editor Scott Shackford. Free. 4:30 p.m., Clickup, 580 Howard St., San Francisco. More information is here. JUNE 16 Indivisible S.F.: General meeting. 1 p.m., the Womens Building, 3543 18th St., San Francisco. More information is here. JUNE 18 Inside the real China: Frank Langfitt, NPR correspondent and author of The Shanghai Free Taxi, on the political and economic changes in China. $25 for non-Commonwealth Club members, $10 for students. Noon, 110 Embarcadero, San Francisco. More information is here. JUNE 23 Courage to Run S.F.: A celebration of women getting politically active and running for office, with a 5K run and party. Free to $40. 8:30 a.m., Pioneer Log Cabin picnic area in Golden Gate Park. More information is here. JUNE 26 George Will: Washington Post columnist in conversation about the future of conservatism with the Commonwealth Clubs Lenny Mendonca. $35 for nonmembers, $15 for students. 6:30 p.m., Marines Memorial Theatre, 609 Sutter St., San Francisco. More information is here. JUNE 27 Women in leadership: Second annual Celebrate Women in Leadership networking mixer, sponsored by the Alameda County Commission on the Status of Women. An opportunity to connect with and celebrate local women in leadership. Free. 6 p.m., Zocalo Coffeehouse, 645 Bancroft Ave., San Leandro. More information is here. To list an event, email Politics Editor Trapper Byrne at tbyrne@sfchronicle.com Woody Hartman had only been on the summit of Mount Everest for a few minutes when his Sherpa guide grabbed him. "We have to leave now," he said, "Or well be stuck here." Dawa Tenzeng Sherpa, who had just completed his twelfth summit of Everest, could see the danger coming. They were in the death zone, an area above 26,000 feet where oxygen is so thin the human body begins shutting down. Behind them was a growing crowd of climbers. Perhaps youve already seen the photograph that went viral last week, a line of humans clustered along the spine of the mountain. Every extra moment spent in the death zone was a minute they could not afford. I knew going in, of course, that climbing Everest was extremely dangerous. Even as a young man, I created a will for this and wrote a letter just in case I didnt return, Hartman said. But this year, really even more than any of the advice and preparation that Id heard from Everest climbers, this year seemed really different. The journey began three years ago for Hartman, a 35-year-old San Franciscan who took a six-month sabbatical from Lyft in order to journey to the Himalayas. He was at a friends house in Redwood City when the friend suggested he try his new virtual reality headset. One of the options was a virtual climb of Mount Everest. As Hartman tried it, he felt tingles run through him. If it feels like this in virtual reality, what would it feel like in real life? he wondered. So he began the arduous process of preparing for the climb, building up his endurance, gaining technical skills and, finally, acclimatizing to high elevations. Two months ago, he flew to Lukla Airport in eastern Nepal to start the hike. From there, he trekked from camp to camp, four in total, on his way to the summit. The window to summit Everest is short. Because of the intense weather at the top, its usually only safe for a week in May. This year, the window was even smaller: just about a day. On the day of May 22, Hartmans guides told him it was time to go. They would leave base camp that night, hoping to arrive at the summit at dawn. The mood in the camp was tense and tired, punctuated by the ripples of adrenaline as climbers anticipated the night. Hartman's group left at 7:30 p.m., hiking in near darkness for hours with only their head lamps for scant illumination. As the sun rose, Hartman saw the huge queue of hundreds of people trying to get up the mountain. The death zone was packed and the slowdown was catastrophic. I start to realize a big part of whats causing this traffic jam is that people are limp, lifeless on ground, being dragged back down by their Sherpas, he said. Not all the climbers made it down alive. Some died where they lay: along the fixed rope laid out on the ridge. My carabiners attached to this rope, and I have to bend down and almost come face-to-face with a body in clothes just like me, with brands of companies like mine on their jackets, and unclip around them, Hartman said. It really felt like a horror show of these frozen bodies. It was a mad scramble to the top before oxygen deprivation and frostbite set in. Once at the summit, Hartman took a few quick photos before his guide told him they needed to leave. I had hoped to have even a few minutes on the summit to savor the moment and the accomplishment, but I didnt have that, he said. The fear, the freezing cold, the crowds. I was in survival mode, and I think almost everyone else was too. Back home, Hartmans friends and family heard the news: People were dying on the mountain. Luckily, Hartman says, he traveled with a well-regarded company, International Mountain Guides, which equips its guides with radios. Although Hartmans family couldnt talk to him directly, they were able to get reports back from IMG, alleviating a bit of their worry. Some experts fear less reputable companies and less experienced climbers contributed to the number of fatalities seen this year. As mounting Everest becomes more popular, more mountaineering novices are attempting the climb. With the line between life and death so thin, any mistake can be deadly. And there is no minimum fitness or experience requirement to obtain a climbing permit. "The major problem is inexperience, not only of the climbers that are on the mountain but also the operators supporting those climbers," veteran climber David Morton told CNN. "Everest is primarily a very complicated logistical puzzle and I think when you have a lot of inexperienced operators as well inexperienced climbers along with, particularly, the Nepal government not putting some limitations on the numbers of people, you have a prime recipe for these sorts of situations happening." So far, 11 people have died on Everest this season. Although the experience was clearly troubling for Hartman, he says it hasnt diminished his love of mountaineering or the profundity of his achievement. For me, it felt significant to be a gay man on the mountain, he said. I havent met many LGBT mountaineers and actually encountered some homophobia on the mountain, which was part of the many challenges I had to work through in my 60 days. I certainly hope that, while Im not the only one, the courage of folks like me ... helps pave the way for others. Hell fly home soon (More than anything I owe it to my friends and family, who have been very nervous for the last two months, to come home and spend time with them) and rest his exhausted body. Hartman says he lost 25 pounds, about 15% of his body weight, during the trek. Hes also thinking of more mountains he hopes to climb although a repeat trip to Everest wont be one of them. The trek to base camp comes at a fraction of the risk. And I think for many, that would be worth it, he said. I certainly will never climb it again. When asked if he would recommend the journey to anyone, Hartman paused to collect his thoughts. If anyone I cared about asked me if they should climb Everest, I would have a very serious conversation with them about the risk and really make sure it was worth it to them to potentially die on the mountain, he said after a while. I think my knee-jerk reaction to anyone who asked me is no. I cannot recommend climbing Everest unless youre prepared to sacrifice a lot to do it. Katie Dowd is the SFGATE senior manager. Send her news tips at katie.dowd@sfgate.com. The idea of states rights is what opened the door to marijuana legalization around the country. But heres the thing about states rights for both employees and employers: You better know exactly what those rights are in the state where you live. Thats especially important for marijuana users who want to hold on to their current job. Cannabis is now legal for medical use in 33 states. Doctors can, and do, prescribe it to patients for issues such as chronic pain. But all that is meaningless in many states when it comes to the relationship between you and your employer. Depending on where you live, you can still get fired for using legal medical marijuana. The right to use marijuana legally under state law does not necessarily guarantee job protection for exercising that right, according to Lawyers.com, which provides legal advice to individuals and small businesses. Unless your states marijuana law specifically prohibits your employer from firing you for off duty marijuana use, you probably wont be protected. Related: Harvard, MIT Receive $9 Million Donation to Conduct Marijuana Research States that offer protections. When it comes to concerns about drug tests by employers, marijuana presents a problem because it can still be detected in the bloodstream long after its been used. That means a joint smoked under the recommendation of your doctor on Saturday afternoon could lead to failing a random drug test on Tuesday morning. Lawmakers in some states see that as a problem. According to Global HR Research, 13 states and the District of Columbia have laws on the books that protect employees from getting fired for using medical cannabis. The states are: Arizona Arkansas Connecticut Delaware Illinois Maine Massachusetts Minnesota Nevada New York Pennsylvania Rhode Island West Virginia Even in these states, its important to become familiar with the fine print. For example. Arkansas law protects employees, but not from using cannabis during work hours. Such nuances are numerous in all the states. Related: New Jersey Lawmakers Admit Failure on Weed Legalization, Will Let Voters Decide in 2020 Things to know in your state. If your state is not among those offering protections, then its important to know how the state approaches drug testing. Also, its important to know that drug testing has been an issue for both marijuana users and those who take products that include hemp-derived CBD, which also can provide a positive result on a drug test. The first issue to know is the circumstances under which your state allows drug testing. Most states allow businesses to conduct a drug test as part of a pre-employment screening. However, fewer states allow employers to test their works randomly once they are on the job. Check to see if your state is one of those. Most states only allow testing of current employees if there is reason to believe they are under the influence of drugs, they hold a position where they could threaten public safety or the safety of co-workers, or they have been involved in an accident. Some states also may allow employees to challenge positive drug test results. As with everything dealing with cannabis currently, its a patchwork quilt of laws across the country that both entrepreneurs and employees need to understand. As an attorney told Governing, The big problem is [marijuana] remains illegal federally except for narrow exceptions. Theres this conflict, and a lot of the court rulings have deferred to federal law. Its a very confusing situation. In short, using marijuana in Little Rock is not the same as using it in Long Beach. Its the responsibility of every marijuana user - and the businesses that employ them - to know the laws in their area. Follow dispensaries.com on Instagram to stay up to date on the latest cannabis news. Related: Most States Provide No Legal Protection If You're Fired for Using Medical Marijuana PTSD, Veterans and Suicide: Action Is Needed and Cannabis Helps NFL Agrees to Study Medical Marijuana for Pain Management Copyright 2019 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved ONeil Dillon is a retired physician from Berkeley. He attended UC Berkeley and UCSF School of Medicine, and he worked for the U.S. Public Health Service as a Peace Corps physician in Malaysia. He practiced psychiatry for many years in Berkeley, as well as caring for patients in the Department of Corrections and on San Quentins Death Row. I have been obsessed with cars since early adolescence, when my brother and I transformed a 1938 Chevrolet Coupe into a classic 50s hot rod. We put in a GMC truck engine and a brand new 1938 Packard floor shift transmission, lowered the front and chromed and painted everything. Working on that car got us through adolescence without getting into too much trouble, although I did lose my license for three months for drag racing. My obsession continued over the years as I lavished loving attention on a 1955 front wheel drive Citroen 15CV with suicide doors. Then followed a 1971 Mercedes 220, a 1986 Mercedes 300 E, a 1999 BMW 540I and a 2013 Audi A4. CHECK CAR PRICES: All were fine automobiles and a pleasure to drive. Then came my salvation. My youngest son had a 1990 Honda Civic he was selling, and I offered to help him fix it up and sell it. As I began to gradually put money into the car for one thing or another, I started to drive it here and there especially for those short trips down to the store and around town that I did not want to subject my finer vehicles to. Lo and behold, I started falling in love. This car was fun to drive. It almost felt like a go-cart. I had always made fun of Japanese cars because it seemed like the engine compartments were a rats nest of wires going every which way. But in spite of how the engine compartment looked, the quality of the car itself including the ride, handling and reliability was notable. This car was miserly with fuel, and parts were reasonably priced. The Honda Civic was a happy camper that lacked the emotional neediness required by the automotive divas I was addicted to. I bought it from my son, and the benefits kept adding up. For one thing, I no longer had to worry about where to park it. Will that guy next to me crash his door into my side? How about that tree is it dropping sap? These were no longer problems that consumed me. And forget about detailing hosing it off once in a while was more than enough. When it did get dented, it did not destroy my equilibrium. It no longer mattered! I was free at last. But wait, theres more. When the car was stolen, no damage occurred to the locks or ignition because Honda only made 16 variations on the keys and every thief has them. The radio was deemed too worthless to steal. When the police called to report that they had found it down the hill, I picked it up no worse for wear. Soon I realized that I did not need to keep locking the doors everywhere I went, or even roll up the windows when I parked. Other benefits included that I no longer needed to pay for collision coverage, and the absence of power steering provided an excellent upper body work out. I got a particular kick out of driving my Honda to the Berkeley Rotary Club meetings when I was president, and watching the puzzled looks it occasioned. I keep getting letters from the state wanting to get it off the streets and offering $1000 to do so. A guaranteed buyer waiting in the wings how many automobiles have that? I have also had two or three unsolicited offers to buy it as a commuter car. Now I ask you, what more could you want out of an automobile? I love my (currently not for sale) 1990 Honda Civic! Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 28) The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Tuesday ordered the pull out of processed pork from countries affected by the African Swine Fever, officer-in-charge Eric Domingo said. He said the items will be immediately "recalled and seized" from Philippine markets to prevent contamination. "These will be padlocked to be sure na hindi na maibebenta," he told CNN Philippines. The Department of Agriculture and stakeholders of the Philippine hog industry on Monday asked FDA to recall processed pork products, including processed luncheon meat Ma Ling, from countries affected by the African Swine Fever. They sought the recall of all pork products manufactured starting August 2018 from 16 ASF-affected countries namely Russia, Ukraine, Czech Republic, Moldova, South Africa, Zambia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Belgium, Latvia, Poland, Romania, China (including Hong Kong and Macau), Mongolia, Vietnam, and Cambodia. FDA, in its order dated May 27, urged distributors and other dealers of processed meat products to abide by its directive. It also warned consumers to be wary of their future purchases. The public is advised to exercise extreme caution in purchasing and consuming processed pork meat products and is advised to only consume processed pork meat products which are sourced from countries other than the above listed countries suspected to be affected by ASF virus, and are registered with the FDA, the document read. Virus in processed goods Agriculture Secretary Manny Pinol explained that the virus can thrive even in processed goods. "While we consider Ma Ling and other processed pork products as minimal risk products, we still would like to pursue the banning of these products because we cannot take chances because according to experts the ASF virus can survive the processing and even heat used in the processing," he said. Domingo, who also serves as Health Undersecretary, added, "A virus can stay dormant. Kahit processed, minsan naiiwan ang virus." Pinol added that those found violating the ban could be fined P200,000 under the Food Security Act. He also assured the public the Filipino hog raisers can address the needs of the country. The African Swine Fever poses no direct and immediate danger to human health. But its spread may threaten the hog industry, with major potential impact on supplies and prices. The disease, which has no vaccine or cure, was first detected in Asia in 2018 in an area in Siberia, according to the United Nations. In December 2018, the Department of Agriculture said pork products from affected countries will be confiscated at the country's points of entry to prevent its spread. If you happened to find yourself in or near the San Jose Convention Center this past weekend, you may have met a sight rarely seen beyond television and computer screens. There were Pikachus, Magikarps, Yugiohs and shirtless Toads. By all accounts, the event space contained enough sequins and spandex to rival the upcoming ABBA revival tour. Even Captain America and Captain Marvel stepped out in full uniform. Their weapon of choice: a teensy black pup (in costume, no less). CHICAGO At least 42 people were shot, five fatally, in Chicago over the Memorial Day weekend even as severe storms kept people indoors and 1,200 extra officers patrolled the streets. The toll was slightly higher than last years Memorial Day weekend, when 39 people were shot, seven of them fatally, according to shooting data kept by the Chicago Tribune. In 2017, 45 people were shot, seven of them killed. And, in 2016, 71 people were shot, six of them fatally, in one of the most violent Memorial Day weekends in recent years. That is just an unacceptable state of affairs, Mayor Lori Lightfoot told reporters following a Monday ceremony at a Grant Park monument to commemorate the nations war dead. The new mayor said she rode with officers Saturday night and responded with them to a shooting on the South Side. She also spoke of the frequency she receives emailed notifications of shootings. I certainly knew that before, but to see it graphically depicted is quite shocking and says that weve got a long way to go as a city, she said. This is not a law enforcement-only challenge. Its a challenge for all of us in city government. Its a challenge for us in communities to dig down deeper and ask ourselves what we can do to step up to stem the violence. Repeating a main talking point of police Superintendent Eddie Johnson, Lightfoot said a critical part of the citys strategy is getting illegal guns off the streets by focusing on gun traffickers, convicted felons carrying guns and those who have their firearm ownership cards revoked. The message must be clear that picking up a gun is not how to resolve disputes, she said. For those who think it is, we can give them no quarter, they can have no sanctuary in our city, she said. Weve got to make sure we flood these areas with a lot more resources. The long weekend is typically one of the busiest for the Chicago Police Department, which canceled days off for many officers. In addition to extra patrols, Chicago police made drug raids throughout the city leading up to the weekend. Much of the violence was concentrated in parts of the South and West sides that have long struggled with poverty, gangs and drugs. On Saturday, 13 people were shot and two of them were killed. Sunday saw the worst of the weekend violence, with 18 people shot. Eight of them were wounded in two shootings just five hours apart on the same block on the Near West Side. Around 1:30 a.m., John Benford, 27, was killed and two others were injured at the ABLA Homes in the 1300 block of West Hastings Street. Around 6 a.m., five more people were shot on the same block, two of them fatally. Killed were Antonio Green, 28, and Martez Cox, 27. In the second shooting, Tevin Covens, 25, was shot in the face by Antonio Green, 28, who also shot and killed another man, 27-year-old Martez Cox, after Cox fired a TEC-9 machine pistol into the air, according to police. Covens, also armed, opened fire on Green, killing him, police said. But shot fired by Covens also hit two women, according to chief police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi. Alice Yin and Jeremy Gorner are Chicago Tribune writers. WASHINGTON The Supreme Court on Tuesday sidestepped part of a case that could have tested the constitutional right to abortion established in Roe v. Wade, turning down an appeal to reinstate a strict Indiana abortion law. But the court, in an apparent compromise, upheld part of the same law regulating the disposal of fetal remains. The first part of the law banned abortions sought solely because of fetal characteristics like sex or disability. The laws second provision required abortion providers to bury or cremate fetal remains. The courts decision, issued without briefing on the merits or oral arguments, was unsigned and just three pages long. It stressed that its decision upholding the fetal-remains provision does not implicate our cases applying the undue burden test to abortion regulations. Indiana, the court said, has a legitimate interest in proper disposal of fetal remains, quoting an earlier decision. Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor said they would have denied review of both issues in the case. The case, Box v. Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky, No. 18-483, had been closely watched because it could have given the Supreme Court its first chance to consider the constitutionality of a state law restricting abortion since Justice Brett Kavanaugh replaced Justice Anthony Kennedy last year. Kennedy had been a cautious supporter of abortion rights, while Kavanaughs limited record on the subject as an appeals court judge suggested some skepticism. The modest move Tuesday left for another day the consideration of state laws limiting abortion that were enacted, at least partly, to challenge the courts decision in 1973 in Roe v. Wade. The Indiana law was enacted in 2016 and signed by Gov. Mike Pence, now the vice president. It prohibited all abortions, at any time during a pregnancy, solely sought based on the fetuss sex, or because it had been diagnosed with Down syndrome or another disability, or because of characteristics like race or national origin. The state law also imposed limits on the disposal of fetal remains, though it allowed mass cremations and did not impose any restrictions on women who disposed of the remains themselves. A statement issued by Pences office Tuesday said he commends the Supreme Court for upholding a portion of Indiana law that safeguards the sanctity of human life by requiring that remains of aborted babies be treated with respect and dignity. We remain hopeful, the statement said, that at a later date the Supreme Court will review one of numerous state laws across the U.S. that bar abortion based on sex, race or disability. Also Tuesday, Planned Parenthood officials said Missouris only abortion clinic could be closed by the end of the week. The officials said in a teleconference that the current license for the St. Louis facility expires Friday. If not renewed, the organization said Missouri would become the first state without a functioning abortion clinic since the 1973 Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision. Missouri is among half a dozen states that have passed sweeping antiabortion measures. Republican Gov. Mike Parson signed a bill Friday banning abortions on or beyond the eighth week of pregnancy, with no exceptions for rape or incest. Associated Press contributed to this report. Adam Liptak is a New York Times writer. WASHINGTON President Trump has rolled back environmental regulations, pulled the United States out of the Paris climate accord, brushed aside dire predictions about the effects of climate change, and turned the term global warming into a punch line rather than a prognosis. Now, after two years spent unraveling the policies of his predecessors, Trump and his political appointees are launching a new assault. In the next few months, the White House will complete the rollback of the most significant federal effort to curb greenhouse-gas emissions, initiated during the Obama administration. It will expand its efforts to impose Trumps hard-line views on other nations, building on his retreat from the Paris accord and his recent refusal to sign a communique to protect the rapidly melting Arctic region unless it was stripped of any references to climate change. And, in what could be Trumps most consequential action yet, his administration will seek to undermine the very science on which climate change policy rests. Trump came into office viewing agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency as bastions of what he calls the deep state, and his contempt for their past work on the issue is an animating factor in trying to force them to abandon key aspects of the methodology they use to try to understand the causes and consequences of a dangerously warming planet. As a result, parts of the federal government will no longer fulfill what scientists say is one of the most urgent jobs of climate science studies: reporting on the future effects of a rapidly warming planet and presenting a picture of what the Earth could look like by the end of the century if the global economy continues to emit heat-trapping carbon dioxide pollution from burning fossil fuels. The administrations prime target has been the National Climate Assessment, produced by an inter-agency task force roughly every four years since 2000. Government scientists used computer-generated models in their most recent report to project that if fossil fuel emissions continue unchecked, the Earths atmosphere could warm by as much as 8 degrees Fahrenheit by the end of the century. That would lead to drastically higher sea levels, more devastating storms and droughts, crop failures, food losses and severe health consequences. The next report is expected to be released in 2021 or 2022. But from now on, officials said, such worst-case scenario projections will not automatically be included in the National Climate Assessment or in some other government scientific report. Coral Davenport and Mark Landler are New York Times writers. With some 200 restaurants on the Alameda dining scene, theres something to satisfy every craving, no matter how exotic. Explore this rich culinary diversity: The Park Street Tavern: Owner Christos Frangoulis opened this elegant spot last year, specializing in classic Greek and Italian fare. Try the wonderfully seasoned locally made loukaniko fennel seed sausage with tzatziki and pita its great with a shot of Barbayanni ouzo. (1901 Park St., (510) 671-2867, www.thepark streettavern.com) Mama Papa Lithuania Restaurant & Tea House: What a rare, delicious find, showcasing Baltic, Eastern and Central European cuisine. Fresh grated potato pancakes are knockouts, stuffed with seasoned ground pork, pan fried and slathered in sour cream. A Svyturys Lithuanian Gold Medal winning beer is a must, too. (1241 Park St., (510) 522-4100, www.mamapapalithuania.com) Speisekammer: Owners Peter and Cindy Kahl invite you to their German table, for savory bites such as schweinebraten (roasted pork in beer sauce with homemade sauerkraut), sauerbraten (beef tri tip braised in red wine and spices over red cabbage and spatzle) and vegetarian gemusestrudel (spinach, goat cheese and red bell peppers wrapped in puff pastry served over carrot puree). (2424 Lincoln Ave., (510) 522-1300, www.speisekammer.com) Wild Ginger: Youve got to love a Szechuan place that lists numbing spicy street food on its menu, which turns out to be ultra-fiery chicken or duck feet, head and neck. More timid appetites will love the large array of fragrant noodle soups and malatang hot pots stocked with goodies like pork dumplings, enoki mushrooms and tempura fish cake. (1239 Park St., (510) 263-8128, www.wild gingeralameda.com) Habanas Cuban Cuisine: What a beautiful, contemporary space with curved banquettes, white tablecloths and bright pops of green and blue paint. The food is riveting, too, including marinated churrasco steak over moros y cristianos (Cuban rice and beans), chimichurri, sauteed yellow onions and plantain chips. (1518 Park St., (510) 521-0130, www. habanascubancuisine.com) Injera: Wow, authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean Cuisine sings with deeply seasoned, often spicy signatures such as traditional doro wat of chicken leg and boiled egg simmered in berbere sauce of chiles, garlic, ginger, basil and a flurry of other herbs. This is a great place for vegetarians, too. (1305 Park St., (510) 865-6257.) Angelas: Chef Saboor Zafari marries Mediterranean/Afghan recipes and California accents, for sumptuous fare like vegan spaghetti Alfredo made with cashew cream, spinach, basil, garlic, carrot chutney and spiced breadcrumbs, or buttermilk and lime marinated Marys organic chicken breast thats lightly breaded and fried then plated with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes and citrus beurre blanc. (1640 Park St., (510) 263-8788, www.angelas alameda.com) Asena: The modern bistro is owned by Turkish-born chef Mustafa Yildirim and business partner Muhittin Arpaci, with an emphasis on homemade staples including pasta, breads, sauces, and even home-cured olives and salmon. Tuck into delicacies like gulf prawns over fresh scallion fettuccine with braised cabbage and silky tarragon-Champagne cream. (2508 Santa Clara Ave., (510) 521-4100, www.asena restaurant.com) CEra Una Volta: Rustic Tuscan cuisine makes this stylish, cream-and-white restaurant popular. Chef Rutilio Rudy Duran looks to his own Italian heritage to craft dishes like homemade lobster ravioli, pizza Romana, and elaborate antipasti platters. (1332 Park St., (510) 769-4828, www. ceraunavolta.us) Phnom Phen: Mporn slarp moarn sounds odd, but its just the restaurants name for Cambodian style deep fried chicken wings, served with pickled vegetables and sweet and sour tamarind sauce. In a sleek wood trimmed setting and with hundreds of dishes on the menu, theres lots to love here (trei chean bonlai kreun, anyone? Its delicious deep fried red snapper topped with mushrooms, bean thread noodles, lotus nuts, ginger and pork.) (1514 Webster St., (510) 893-3825, www.phnompenh house.com) Pacific Lighthouse Seafood Restaurant: This Chinese eatery is gorgeous, anchored with an enormous crystal chandelier over white cloth tables, plus views of the Oakland Estuary and yacht club. Lots of dim sum and seafood take center stage, plus fancy soups (sun dried scallop bisque) and clay pots (braised vegetables with mushroom vermicelli). (1051 Pacific Marina, (510) 263-9232, www.pacificlighthouse88.com) India Palace: The tiny, colorfully decorated spot sends out lots of very good cooking, including a nicely stocked lunch buffet, plus a la carte signatures like spicy curries, tandoori, and a lovely prawn palak mounded in spicy creamed spinach. (737 Buena Vista Ave., (510) 814-8778, www.indiapalacealameda.us) Sidestreet Pho: Vietnamese cuisine shines as owner Hanh Nguyen focuses on fresh, clean flavors, for favorites such as shaken beef the pan-crisped egg noodles are tender-chewy in the middle and crisp outside, while the filet mignon is wok-tossed in rich, salty sauce with a side of chicken broth. (2304 Encinal Ave., (510) 808-5298, www.sidestreetpho.com) Christina Koci Hernandez/SFC A 10-year-old boy was transported to a hospital by helicopter late Tuesday morning after CPR was administered at a water park in Antioch, according to a county fire spokesman. Emergency crews with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District responded to the Antioch Water Park, listed at 4701 Lone Tree Way, at 11:22 a.m. on report of CPR in progress on a 10-year-old boy, fire spokesman Steve Hill said. The nature of his injuries was not immediately clear, but the child was conscious and breathing by the time he was placed in a helicopter at 11:55 a.m., Hill said. The patient was transported to UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland. Hill referred additional questions to the Antioch Police Department. Police were not immediately available for comment. 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. Animal rights activists are gathering in the Bay Area this week for workshops, demonstrations and a march outside the California Democratic Convention. The weeklong Animal Liberation Conference starts on Wednesday and is expected to bring more than 1,000 activists to the Bay Area for events in San Francisco and Berkeley, according to organizers. On Friday, the conference plans to stage a "Giant Cube of Truth" at Civic Center Plaza on McAllister Street in San Francisco, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Masked activists will form a cube to display video footage from farms and slaughterhouses, organizers said. The march on Saturday outside the Democratic convention will take place from 1 to 6 p.m. at Civic Center and United Nations Plaza. The conference will also include a panel discussion on Sunday at UC Berkeley about the rise of the animal rights movement and repression faced by activists and journalists. The panel includes Amy Goodman of Democracy Now! and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Glenn Greenwald. The discussion will be held from 10 a.m. to noon at the Pauley Ballroom, UC Berkeley. Groups represented at the conference include Direct Action Everywhere (DxE), Greenpeace, Extinction Rebellion, the Save Movement, PETA, and Anonymous for the Voiceless. For more information on conference events, go to https://www.animalliberationconference.com/ 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. DALY CITY (BCN) A garage fire at 178 Winchester St. in Daly City was quickly extinguished by crews Monday evening. Firefighters arrived just after 5 p.m. and reported heavy smoke and flames coming from the garage of the single-family two-story home. The fire was confined to a room in the back of the garage, but there was smoke damage to the second story of the home. No injuries were reported. The Red Cross was dispatched to assist the five residents and an infant temporary housing, but the household made its own arrangements. The cause of the fire is under a joint investigation by Daly City Police and the North County Fire Prevention Services Bureau. 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) The San Francisco chapter of the NAACP has released a statement of support for police Chief William Scott in the wake of his apology for the May 10 police raid of a freelance journalist's home and office. "The civil rights and African American community stands solidly behind Chief Bill Scott," the Rev. Amos Brown, president of the NAACP chapter said in the statement. "He has recognized and apologized for his department's raid of a journalist's home office in an effort to unmask a confidential source who leaked a police report on the death of Public Defender Jeff Adachi to the news media." Brown wrote that "the chief's apology and his admission that the searches were probably illegal as well as his call for an independent investigation demonstrates he is the right leader for SFPD, able to admit mistakes, retain his integrity, and enjoy the respect of the many peoples that make up our city. The NAACP statement is the second in two days defending Scott for apologizing after the police union on Friday called for his resignation. ""We are deeply disappointed, but not surprised, by the flagrant political attack by the San Francisco Police Officers Association against Chief Scott," Brown said. "Their unwarranted remarks belie their resistance to any reform of the department and their ranks. The only reason for their attack is to stop the police reforms that Chief Scott is leading in our city. The community demands reform and it will not stand for the SFPOA's attacks against a man who is big enough to admit a mistake." The president and vice president of the city's Police Commission issued a statement supporting Scott on Sunday. The raid of freelance journalist Bryan Carmody was done as part of an investigation by San Francisco police into who leaked a report with details of the Feb. 22 death of San Francisco Public Defender Jeff Adachi, including that Adachi died while with a woman who wasn't his wife. Carmody somehow obtained a copy of the report and sold it to three Bay Area television stations. News and First Amendment organizations have condemned the raid as a violation of legal protections for journalists. Scott initially defended his deparment's actions as legal and in compliance with the Shield Law, which prohibits law enforcement from forcing journalists to reveal their sources. But on Friday he reversed his stance, officially apologizing for the raid and setting off more criticism that in turn has others rising to Scott's defense. The San Francisco Police Officers' Association on Saturday called for Scott to resign, calling the apology a "pathetic, deceitful and shameful display of self-preservation." "We urge the city's elected leadership to reject the comments by the SFPOA and be mindful that their attack on Chief Scott is emblematic of everything that is wrong with the backwards thinking of some police officers who reject civil and human right reforms in our police ranks," Brown said in the NAACP 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. UNION CITY (BCN) Representatives for teachers on strike against the New Haven Unified School District indicated Monday evening that a settlement could be near. "We are hoping there is going to be some kind of agreement, hopefully maybe tonight," said second grade teacher Paul Strickland, a member of the executive board of the New Haven Teachers Association. Strickland, speaking through a megaphone during a briefing broadcast on the association's Facebook page, said that if an agreement is reached there are two possibilities - that teachers could be back in the classroom as soon as Tuesday, or that teachers could remain out another day to consider the possible settlement. "There's no agreement yet, but there is a conversation," Strickland said to pickets and supporters outside the Alameda County Office of Education in Hayward. "We could be here very late tonight." Cynthia Menzel of the California Teachers Association said she is "pessimistically optimistic" about the progress made, adding, "It's a two-way conversation now, instead of one-way." The walkout by teachers in the 11,000-student district started May 20. Teachers have been seeking a 10 percent raise over the next two academic years, while the district has offered a 1 percent raise for next year and a one-time 3 percent payment. The district is also offering a permanent 0.5 percent increase if it's able to secure an additional $1 million in revenue, and another 0.5 percent if it can add yet another $1 million, according to district officials. 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. RICHMOND (BCN) The Richmond Police Department is scheduled to address the City Council Tuesday evening on its efforts to reduce gun violence after the community was rocked by a series of shootings this month. Police say that going a full year without a homicide is one of the city government's goals. There have been at least seven criminal homicides so far in 2019, according to city documents, but over the past five years there have been between 16 and 25 homicides per year. Those numbers are down significantly from historical averages, however. There were an average of 38 homicides per year in Richmond during the 1990s, according to police, with an all-time high of 67 homicides in 1991. The department is asking for additional resources, including $1.1 million, to fill vacancies and increase the resources dedicated to gun violence prevention. Improving public safety is seen as a requisite step to improving the city's image, and thereby improving the city's economic outlook. A study session on gun violence prevention with the Office of Neighborhood Safety, which was carried over from a meeting in April, is also on the agenda. The Richmond City Council meeting is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers at 440 Civic Center Plaza. 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. Animal rights activists are gathering in the Bay Area this week for workshops, demonstrations and a march outside the California Democratic Convention. The weeklong Animal Liberation Conference starts on Wednesday and is expected to bring more than 1,000 activists to the Bay Area for events in San Francisco and Berkeley, according to organizers. On Friday, the conference plans to stage a "Giant Cube of Truth" at Civic Center Plaza on McAllister Street in San Francisco, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Masked activists will form a cube to display video footage from farms and slaughterhouses, organizers said. The march on Saturday outside the Democratic convention will take place from 1 to 6 p.m. at Civic Center and United Nations Plaza. The conference will also include a panel discussion on Sunday at UC Berkeley about the rise of the animal rights movement and repression faced by activists and journalists. The panel includes Amy Goodman of Democracy Now! and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Glenn Greenwald. The discussion will be held from 10 a.m. to noon at the Pauley Ballroom, UC Berkeley. The afternoon optimism of a possible agreement between the New Haven Teachers Association and the New Haven Unified School District had dissolved by late evening after more than 12 hours of bargaining talks at the Alameda County Office of Education in Hayward, both sides said Monday. As a result, the strike and negotiations will resume on Tuesday. "Both sides adjusted their respective last, best and final offers," according to a statement by district officials. The union, which had previously sought a 10 percent pay increase over two academic years, instead requested a 3.7 percent for the current year and 3.26 percent for 2019-20. "Our members pay all healthcare costs out-of-pocket," the teachers association said in a release. "We know the district can afford to give their teachers COLA (cost of living allowance) to help us keep up with the rising cost of living in the Bay Area." The district, however, says meeting that offer "would cost the school district approximately $17.7 million over three years and would increase the amount of cuts in 20/21 by $11.7 million more than the planned $4.6 million, totaling $16.3 million." The district said its latest offer is "a one-time, 3 percent off-the-schedule pay increase for 2018-19 and an ongoing 2 percent on-the-schedule salary increase for 2019-20" and the teachers association has responded that the offer "is still not ratifiable by our members." Hopes were raised Monday afternoon when the teachers association said there was progress in talks and that there was hope an agreement could be reached. The walkout by teachers in the 11,000-student district started May 20. The San Francisco chapter of the NAACP has released a statement of support for police Chief William Scott in the wake of his apology for the May 10 police raid of a freelance journalist's home and office. "The civil rights and African American community stands solidly behind Chief Bill Scott," the Rev. Amos Brown, president of the NAACP chapter said in the statement. "He has recognized and apologized for his department's raid of a journalist's home office in an effort to unmask a confidential source who leaked a police report on the death of Public Defender Jeff Adachi to the news media." Brown wrote that "the chief's apology and his admission that the searches were probably illegal as well as his call for an independent investigation demonstrates he is the right leader for SFPD, able to admit mistakes, retain his integrity, and enjoy the respect of the many peoples that make up our city. The NAACP statement is the second in two days defending Scott for apologizing after the police union on Friday called for his resignation. Westfield Mall on Market Street was evacuated for a time Sunday evening on a report of a man swinging an undisclosed weapon, San Francisco police said. Police were notified about the man, whose identity and age were not available, around 6 p.m. The man, who had "a potential weapon," according to police, was located and detained between the Hollister and Abercrombie & Fitch stores. "He caused enough stir to have people leave the mall due to the potential level of violence he could inflict," said officer Robert Rueca, department spokesman. "But when we contacted him he was compliant." At least one person was taken to a hospital after a one-alarm fire in San Francisco on Monday night, according to police. The blaze was reported at 8:56 p.m. on the fifth floor of 1700 Broadway, fire officials said. Nobody was injured or displaced after the fire that was located in an isolated room. The cause of the fire is under investigation. No further information was provided by fire officials. Tuesday will be partly cloudy in the morning, then becoming sunny. Highs will be in the 50s to upper 60s. Southwest winds will be 5 to 10 mph, increasing to west winds at 15 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Tuesday night will be partly cloudy in the evening, then becoming mostly cloudy and breezy. Lows will be in the mid 50s. West winds will be 20 to 30 mph, decreasing to 10 to 20 mph after midnight. Wednesday will be partly cloudy. Highs will be in the upper 50s to lower 70s. Southwest winds will be 5 to 10 mph, before becoming west winds at 10 to 20 mph in the afternoon. 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. Poysti on Monday stated that Niinisto used inappropriate language to criticise two constitutional law experts in his blog in late February, but added that there is no reason to suspect him of an offence that a cabinet member could be charged with. MINISTER OF DEFENCE Jussi Niinisto (BR) has been reprimanded for inappropriate use of language by Tuomas Poysti, the Chancellor of Justice. No pre-trial investigation will therefore be launched into the remarks of Niinisto. Niinisto in February called Juha Lavapuro, a professor of public law at the University of Turku, and Martin Scheinin, a professor of international law and human rights at the European University Institute in Florence, Italy, Talibanis of constitutional law and questioned their motives and political backgrounds. Lavapuro and Scheinin had expressed their concerns about the constitutional compliance of a bill for new civilian and military intelligence laws. The Chancellor of Justice on Monday said the expressions used to refer to the two professors were inappropriate, personal and needlessly harsh. Cabinet members, he underlined, must remain dignified and reasonable also when voicing what they believe is warranted criticism. It is the responsibility of ministers to refrain from using inappropriate language in connection with their official duties. Ministers have the right to freedom of speech, but on the other hand they must take into consideration that also others have the right and an opportunity to participate in public debate, wrote Poysti. He also pointed out that criticism that is directed at the activities of others in certain areas of public activity and that does not clearly exceed the limits of acceptability does not meet the elements of defamation. The Finnish criminal code states that even pointed and derogatory criticism may be accepted if as it is directed at the activities of an individual rather than the individual themselves. Aleksi Teivainen HT Source: Uusi Suomi Its now a done deal, he stated to reporters in the House of the Estates at around 11pm on Monday. ANTTI RINNE , the chairperson of the Social Democratic Party, has announced that the chairpersons of the parties that are set to form the next government have reached an agreement on a financial framework for the government programme. The five chairpersons resumed the coalition formation negotiations yesterday afternoon, after a short hiatus caused by the elections to the European Parliament. The negotiations dragged on late into the evening, with the participants providing little in the way of updates to members of the media. Well no longer have to wrangle over the economy not that we wrangled in the first place; we were looking for solutions, said Rinne. Weve balanced revenues and expenses, and we share an understanding of how to move forward from here. Rinne also confirmed that the government is planning on increasing spending by around one to three billion euros. Helsingin Sanomat reported last week that the task force on tax policy has identified measures to increase tax revenues more than the 700 million euros deemed necessary by the parties involved in the government formation process. The government is also set to refrain from making spending cuts, and divest state-owned assets to generate up to two billion euros in revenue and allocate roughly 500 million euros of the proceeds to research and innovation. The task forces resumed their work today and should iron out the last details on Wednesday, according to Rinne. If any problems arise, theyll be settled by the chairpersons. And then well have roughly a dozen questions that require answers, he said, affirming that the contents of the government programme should be finalised by tomorrow evening. But Im not sure itll be in a shape that it can be printed. The Left Alliance has already announced it will ask its membership to vote on whether or not the government programme should be approved, meaning the ministerial portfolios will unlikely be distributed until next week. Aleksi Teivainen HT Source: Uusi Suomi Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 28) President Rodrigo Duterte brought 16 members of his Cabinet to Japan possibly as a "reward" for the turnout of the 2019 midterm elections where most of the administration bets won, Philippine Ambassador Jose Laurel said Tuesday. A list Malacanang relayed today showed 16 Cabinet members comprising his official delegation to Japan for the NIKKEI Conference on the Future of Asia, which will be held from May 30 to 31. "You know, you ask me personally what is this purpose? Itoy pabuya sa nakaraang election [This is a reward for the recent elections.] Why do you bring 21 --- ah 20 Cabinet members here pati ang [including the] local government or land reform?" Laurel told reporters. "But I think the President is so elated with the results that it --- of the midterm election, that this is an affirmation of his administration in the last three years." But Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea denied this, saying the Cabinet officials are there for work. "Puro halos wala sa kampanya ang mga kasamang opisyal. May mga kanya-kanyang trade missions ang mga kasamang gabinete. Hindi po sila dekorasyon sa summit. Trabaho lang yan," Medialdea said in a message Tuesday. [Translation: Almost all of the officials there are not in the campaign. Each Cabinet member has his or her own trade mission. They are not there for decoration, it's just their job.] Duterte left for Japan Tuesday afternoon. Laurel said there are over 200 delegates from the Philippines, including the Cabinet officials. But he clarified the trip is not a junket. "Ill tell you at 75, I get tired very easily. And I can imagine that fellow (Duterte) who is six months younger than me, I think is also getting tired with the kind of lifestyle and schedule that he has. Now, my impression is its important that you know the Cabinet is here for reasons that they may ask the Japanese," he said. As to who will shoulder the expenses, conference organizer NIKKEI paid for Duterte's costs. It remained unclear who paid for the costs of the Cabinet members and local government officials in the trip. Duterte formally banned junkets through Executive Order 77. International trips for conferences or meetings which the Philippine government has committed to or official missions and assignments which cannot be assigned to officials abroad are exempted. During his Japan trip, Duterte is scheduled to have a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Abe Shinzo after his conference's keynote address on May 31, but there will be no agreements signed during the two leaders' meeting, the Department of Foreign Affairs said. Department of Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra was appointed officer-in-charge of the Philippine government during Duterte's trip. A Memorial Day pleasure cruise nearly ended in tragedy for two people who were out boating near the Texas City dike on Monday evening. The U.S. Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston reported that it received a mayday call from a 32-foot recreational vessel. The mariner reported that three people had fallen overboard. Weather conditions were reported as 13 mph winds with 2-foot seas. The disabled vessel, now with one adult and six children left onboard, was drifting toward the rocks. One of the adults in the water was safely pulled back into the boat, according to the mariner. The Coast Guard launched launched a MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Air Station Houston, a Station Galveston 45-foot Response Boat-Medium boatcrew and two Station Galveston 29-foot Response Boat-Small boatcrews. The boatcrews recovered the two adults from the water adrift on a cooler. "This could have been a tragic situation," said Lt. j.g. Terrell Sisk, command duty officer at Sector Houston-Galveston. "While the vessel had the required amount of lifejackets, no one onboard the vessel was wearing one including the three adults who entered the water." "Unexpected events can happen while on the water, and in a moment mariners can find themselves in a dangerous situation. It's very much like a seatbelt; if you're not wearing it, it can't help save your life," Sisk added. The disabled vessel was towed to the Galveston Yacht Basin. No injuries were reported. Danny Hermosillo is the Digital News Editor for Chron.com | Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com | Follow him on Twitter at @Dannyherm1| Email him at Danny.Hermosillo@chron.com | Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message For years, architect Joshua Larson had watched his developer and contractor clients purchase run-down homes, renovate them and flip them for profit. "I thought, 'Well that doesn't seem that hard,'" Larson recalled. In the fall of 2017, he "jumped in deep" and took on the role of both designer and developer of 128 Woodland Ave. in Parnassus Heights. A silent partner provided the financing for the then-$1.8-million property and Larson spent the next year and a half drawing up plans, getting through the extensive permitting process, making all the material selections and working with the contractor to completely transform the 1922 propertyall while continuing to do design work for other clients. As the now $4.2-million home comes to market, Larson has definitely reassessed his initial impression of development work. "It's a very hard task to pull off a project of this scale with a set budget while at the same time trying to create an inspiring project that stands out from other developers," he said. "It's not easy. I learned a lot but feel really satisfied with end result." Since the neighborhood isn't known for modern homes, Larson kept the "overall scale and mass" of the original facade. "You do not sense that the house is unlike any others in the neighborhood until you step inside," he said. "We did not want to change the 'pattern language' with the adjacent houses and instead voted to create an element of surprise on the interior with the modern layout, including the finishes selected." Larson said buyers love how "peaceful and zen-like the house feels to them" as well as "the quality of natural light that is present on every floor." That light comes courtesy of the home's most unique feature: a three-floor atrium accented by a 30-foot-high irrigated "living wall." It's all part of the home's indoor-outdoor appeal, which is accentuated by the location adjacent to the Mt. Sutro Open Space Reserve. Many rooms in the four-floor home, which also has an elevator, open onto either the atrium or the back decks overlooking the open space. In fact, it was the location that appealed to Larson and first allowed him to see the potential in the property. "Sitting on the back decks feels like being in nature. [It's like] Marin County but with San Francisco at your fingertips. The sound of nature is in full swing all year round." Emily Landes is a writer and editor who is obsessed with all things real estate. This week, BART police are rolling out a strategy to help cut back on phone snatchings and other thefts of personal electronic devices, which numbered 402 in the first four months of the year. "Is it more cops on trains?" you might ask. That's part of the plan, but today it's all about ...index cards. ALSO: Watch this guy shave his head on BART "BART police detectives are walking trains in the San Francisco corridor this week to hand out cards advising riders to be aware of their surroundings, so they can avoid falling victim to thieves who are after their cellphones," the agency announced Tuesday. The efforts to hand out the index card info sheets will be concentrated in the middle of the day and early afternoon between the Balboa Park and Embarcadero stations. The cards tell people to look up from their phones, so that it is harder to steal their phones. Will seasoned BART riders ignore the attempts to hand them index cards, instead continuing to stare resolutely at their phones, because most people on BART who try to hand you stuff are asking for money or trying to convert you to their religion? Probably! BART is trying to increase awareness because a large share of the electronics that get stolen about 75 percent, this year so far are snatched, rather than being taken "by force or fear." "Thieves will board a train and wait until the moment it arrives at a station and the doors open to snatch a phone and make a quick escape," BART Interim Police Chief Ed Alvarez said in a news release. MORE: BART operator in SF reports getting hit in the face As for the more obvious solution of adding more police on trains, BART says an officer recruitment program is currently in the works, as well, with 26 officers hired as of mid-May, already more than all the officers hired in 2018. Filipa Ioannou is an SFGATE staff writer. Email: filipa.ioannou@sfgate.com | Twitter: @obioannoukenobi For the first time in two weeks, there's no rain in the forecast for the San Francisco Bay Area. The week ahead will see a spring-like pattern with morning fog, sunny afternoons and seasonably warm temperatures. This streak of pleasant weather will be welcomed by many after an unseasonably wet period soaked the Bay Area, raining out many picnics, parades and Little League games. "We're finally breaking out of this pattern that we've been stuck in for several weeks," says Matt Mehle, a forecaster with the National Weather Service office in Monterey. "For San Francisco itself we don't have any rain in the official forecast looking six to 10 days out. The only chance would be night and morning drizzle from the marine layer. We're starting to get into our summer type pattern. After morning fog, San Francisco and the greater Bay Area will see sunny skies Tuesday with highs in the high-60s on the coast and in the high-70s, maybe even low-80s inland. On Wednesday temperatures will climb even higher with inland areas more likely to break into the low-80s. ALSO: Yosemite looks like a snow globe, and summer is just around the corner Clouds may move into the region and temperatures could drop Thursday as a weak system moves across Northern California. "The only area we have any mention of rain or chance of thunderstorms is across the North Bay on Thursday, and that's even a stretch," says Mehle. "The storm is most likely to stay north of the North Bay." On Friday, warm weather returns and the weekend is likely to see the highest temperatures of the week. "Over the weekend we could get close to 70 in downtown San Francisco and that will last into early next week," says Mehle. Downtown San Francisco has seen 1.94 inches of rain since May 1. Normal rainfall for the entire month is .70 inch. "The last time May has been this wet was in May 1998 when 3.92 inches fell," according to the National Weather Service. May 2019 so far ranks as the city's 12th wettest May on record, and it's likely to remain that way with no rain in the forecast through the end of the month. SINGAPORE Early in December, Surachai Danwattananusorn went uncharacteristically silent. The septuagenarian Thai dissident stopped recording the fortnightly podcast he had hosted for years from exile in Laos. Text messages from his wife in Thailand went unanswered. Two weeks later, the bodies of two of his colleagues were found floating in the Mekong River between Thailand and Laos. They had been handcuffed and strangled with a rope, their stomachs disemboweled and stuffed with concrete. Surachai remains missing and is feared dead the most prominent of a wave of exiles who have been arrested, abducted, disappeared or killed in recent months in a shadowy crackdown against critics of the twin pillars of Thailands establishment the monarchy and military. Exiles say the Thai army is trying to silence opponents, at home and abroad, in the twilight of military rule that began with a 2014 coup. The crackdown also signals the armys effort to clear the way for the coronation this month of Thailands new king, Maha Vajiralongkorn. Hundreds have been arrested for making or sharing statements or online posts deemed offensive to the monarchy, which is protected from almost all criticism by some of the worlds most sweeping lese-majeste laws. The arrests and disappearances have sent shock waves through the scattered community of roughly 100 Thai dissidents in exile most living in the neighboring countries of Laos and Cambodia. Soon after appointing himself prime minister, the junta leader, former Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha, said his top priority was protecting the monarchy and called on foreign governments to hand over exiled activists. Prayuth, who refashioned himself into a civilian politician and led the party that won the most votes in the March election, is favored to stay on as prime minister in the new government. In March, a U.N. working group on enforced disappearances wrote to the Thai government asking for information about Surachai and his colleagues, saying it is believed Thai officials may be responsible for their fates. The Thai Foreign Ministry did not respond to requests for comment. Then, in early May, human rights groups said that three other Thai dissidents who fled Laos after Surachais abduction had been arrested in Vietnam, which reportedly extradited them to Thailand. Thai authorities have not acknowledged holding the men, whom rights groups identified as Chucheep Chivasut, Siam Theerawut and Kritsana Thapthai accused of operating anti-monarchy radio programs and mobilizing demonstrations. Shashank Bengali is a Los Angeles Times writer. NAMCHE, Nepal Scaling Mount Everest was a dream few realized before Nepal opened its side of the mountain to commercial climbing a half-century ago. This year the government issued a record number of permits, leading to traffic jams on the worlds highest peak that likely contributed to the greatest death toll in four years. As the allure of Everest grows, so have the crowds, with inexperienced climbers faltering on the narrow passageway to the peak and causing deadly delays, veteran climbers said. After 11 people died this year, Nepal tourism officials have no intention of restricting the number of permits issued, instead encouraging even more tourists and climbers to come for both pleasure and fame, said Mohan Krishna Sapkota, secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation. Nepal, one of the worlds poorest countries, relies on the climbing industry to bring in $300 million each year, and doesnt cap the number of permits it issues, or control the pace or timing of the expeditions, leaving that to tour operators and guides who take advantage of brief clear weather conditions whenever they come, leading to pile-ups near the peak. On May 22, a climber snapped a photo from a line with dozens of hikers in colorful winter gear that snaked into the sky. Climbers were crammed crampon-to-crampon along a sharp-edged ridge above South Col, with a 7,000-foot drop on either side, all clipped onto a single line of rope, trudging toward the top of the world and risking death as each minute ticked by. There were more people on Everest than there should be, said Kul Bahadur Gurung, general secretary of the Nepal Mountaineering Association, an umbrella group of all expedition operators in Nepal. We lack the rules and regulations that say how many people can actually go up and when. The death toll this season is the highest since 2015. Most of those who died are believed to have suffered from altitude sickness, which is caused by low amounts of oxygen at high elevation and can cause headaches, vomiting, shortness of breath and mental confusion. Once only accessible to well-heeled elite mountaineers, Nepals booming climbing market has driven down the cost of an expedition, opening Everest up to hobbyists and adventure-seekers. Nepal requires climbers to have a doctors note deeming them physically fit, but not to prove their stamina at such extreme heights. Because of the altitude, climbers have just hours to reach the top before they are at risk of a pulmonary edema, when the lungs fill with liquid. From Camp Four at 26,240 feet to the 29,035-foot peak, the final push on Everest is known as the death zone. The deaths this year on Nepals side of the mountain included Don Cash, a sales executive from Utah, and Christopher Kulish, an attorney from Colorado, who both died on their way down from the peak. This year, permits were issued to 381 people in 44 teams, the highest number ever, according to the government. Upendra Man Singh, Binaj Gurubacharya and Emily Schmall are Associated Press writers. 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 Wild monitor lizards have become an unlikely attraction at this park - with tourists visiting to take pictures of the reptiles. Officials believe there are around 400 of the creatures lurking in the pond at the Lumpini Park in Bangkok, Thailand. They have even been known to attack passing cyclists, with one woman being rushed to hospital after claiming a lizard jumped at her bike. But despite their fearsome reputation, the creatures have become a much-loved draw to the open green space. Every day they can be seen ambling along the grassy banks of the lake and sauntering along footpaths. Footage taken on May 22 shows holidaymakers posing for selfies and taking pictures of the Asian water monitor lizards. City officials had previously tried to remove the beasts but gave up following a backlash from the public and is now trying to manage the population. Bangkoks City Hall said that it counted 400 monitor lizards in the park in September last year while National Parks Department Director Kanchana Nittaya believes the number is closer to 160. He said: The latest population figure for monitor lizards given to us by the [Bangkok Metropolitan Administration] was 400. "They said their workers walked around counting them. "We told them this method of counting could produce a highly inaccurate figure because the same lizard could be counted again by the time an official walked to another spot. This is the harrowing moment villagers in Thailand rescued a female puppy that was abandoned on a riverbank with its mouth taped shut. The seven-month-old pooch was thrashing around in the undergrowth by the side road in Chainat, central Thailand on Saturday (May 25). A passing motorcycle rider noticed the movement and stopped to look, before calling over more residents who went to help. But each time they tried to approach to help the terrified pooch, she ran deeper into the bushes. Villagers spent more than 10 minutes looking for her until one of them bought a piece of grilled chicken to lure her out of the hiding spot. The brown aspin slowly walked out from the trees following the food smell while some male villagers approached her from behind to gently cover her head with a jacket to calm her down. She had thick black electrical tape wrapped several times tightly around her jaws preventing her from opening her mouth or breathing properly. Locals carried the dog to the field by the path where it was easier to tend to her. She was laid on the grass while one local carefully unwrapped the wire tape from her mouth. As soon as she felt free from being tied up, the dog quickly ran away into the field while the villagers were cheering and relieved to successfully save the stray dog. They believed that the dog was recently dumped by a cruel owner who also wrapped her mouth with a sticky wire tape, so she was not able to eat or drink and would eventually die. Resident Apichet Somboon said: We never saw her around before and she didnt seem to know where she was, so we believed that someone had been cruel and tied her mouth and randomly dumped her here. Luckily, we found her just in time or else she may be starving to death. We wish we could feed her before she ran off, but at least we were very happy to see that she was still healthy. Police in the Baan Kuay district are now investigating to try and find the owner of the animal. Anyone found guilty of abusing the dog could face up to two years in prison. A spokesman said: We have spoken to citizens in the area but nobody knows who owned the dog and nobody saw anything suspicious. Those who carry out cruelty to animals without reasonable cause shall be liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or a fine not exceeding 40,000 baht or both. Dozens of citizens in Thailand are battling to save giant catfish stranded in a drought-ravaged reservoir. The pond in Phrae, northern Thailand, had been around 20ft deep most years since it was opened in 1995 to provide water for agricultural use. But a lack of rain combined with recent heatwaves - caused partly by warm phase El Nino - have seen water levels plunge to just a few feet deep with cracked banks drying up. Locals noticed several fish floating on the surface of the water on Saturday (May 25) and began the grim task of removing the bodies, with each carcass weighing up to 150kg. Large numbers of Mekong Catfish were then found drowned in the water. The massive creatures were filmed being pulled out of the reservoir and laid on the banks before being carried away. With no sign of rain in the coming days, villagers and local officials have now begun frantically trying to catch the remaining fish in the reservoir so they can be transferred to different ponds. Resident Kanyasorn Tintip: There has never been a drought this severe. It is the first time I have seen so many fish killed by it. The fish are very heavy and there is more than two tonnes of fish that have died. It is a waste of life. Somnuek Duangnai, President of Nam Lao sub-district, said: We are working with the Royal Irrigation Department and Phrae Provincial Fishery Office in order to find ways to help the aquatic animals in the basin, especially the giant catfish. The general opinion was that it would be better to remove them from the water while waiting for the reservoir to be replenished. There were at least 25 that drowned in the mud. We had to mobilise many forces to assist with the evacuation of the fish. Villagers are helping by also catching them. Last month, soaring temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius and a lack of rain - made worse by El Nino warm phase. It caused households and businesses in tourist hotspot Phuket in the south of the country to suffer a shortage of ta water. Video taken at the Bang Niew Dam reservoir showed how some channels were now bone dry and the water level has dipped so low that the rocky banks had been exposed. Page Content Employers have long valued human resource information technology (HRIT) professionals for the quality and breadth of their technical skills. But in today's team-driven, collaborative work environments, companies are finding that, given the changing realities of their businesses, they need to recruit for and train HRIT professionals in such soft skills as communication, empathy and even persuasion. A study from LinkedIn and Capgemini, a Paris-based technology consulting firm, highlights the growing need for soft skills in technology roles. The study found the talent gap for soft skills to be greater than for hard skills, with experience in customer-centricityan approach to doing business that focuses on creating a positive experience for the customerbeing most in demand by companies. The worldwide study included responses from 1,200 HR and talent leaders, as well as digital and technology recruiters across industries. [SHRM members-only platform: SHRM Connect] Digital Solutions Pervade the Enterprise In a recent study from West Monroe, a Chicago-based technology research and consulting firm, 53 percent of business leaders said they're interacting more frequently with technology team members. But of those respondents, 43 percent said they'd also experienced a lack of collaboration when working with these teams, with poor skills in verbal and written communication and a lack of teamwork the most commonly cited problems. These shortcomings can lead to missed deadlines, misunderstandings and product quality breakdowns, the study found. "More business gets done today via technology than ever before," said Greg Layok, managing director and leader of the technology practice at West Monroe. "Individuals who possess both technical and business skills are hard to find, so organizations are blending teams and requiring more collaboration between people to fulfill the need." If technologists speak only in "code" and struggle to articulate in plain language the limitationsand possibilitiesof technology, business leaders can't relay that information properly to all stakeholders, Layok said. "These communication problems often require conversations be rehashed, and delays start to happen," he said. "On the flip side, if a business leader doesn't treat the technologist as an equal member of the working team and says, 'I don't understand any of that technology stuff,' they're not being a good partner either. So soft-skill requirements run both ways." Layok has met with technology leaders who express concern that their information technology (IT) teams may not be able to handle the challenges of digital transformation, "not because they don't have the technical skills, but rather the leadership, project management and communication skills required to execute such large-scale projects aren't as developed as their technical capabilities," he said. Priyanka Komala, a technology leader for a nonprofit organization, believes that customer-centricity and empathy are often-overlooked but increasingly important traits for IT professionals. "It's not just about being a good coder anymore," Komala said. "When working cross functionally, you need to be good at listening and understanding others' perspectives. IT leaders and their staffs need to be as much technology enablers and educators as they are technology experts today." HRIT as Company Collaborator Research shows that HRIT professionals also are interacting more frequently with other parts of the organization in such tasks as configuring cloud software and integrating disparate technology systems. The 2018-19 Sierra Cedar HR Systems survey found that the average organization now has 18 technology-integration touch points between its HR environments and non-HR systems, with larger organizations having even more. That study also found that the HRIT role is likely to be more responsible for software configuration decisions and data security than general IT or functional roles, giving the position strategic importance and making soft-skill competency in the role vital. Today's greater focus on the user experience translates into a need for IT workers to develop new soft skills such as empathy, said Jeff Mike, vice president and head of HR research for Bersin, Deloitte Consulting. "IT professionals and software developers have to learn how to fall in love with the end-user, not the technology itself," Mike said. "The days of user error are over. If someone doesn't find an app easy to use within 10 or 15 seconds, they won't use it, and that includes HR apps. At its core, designing or configuring software of that type requires an ability to empathize and see the world from end-users' eyes." Roy Altman, an HR technology expert and former HRIS manager at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, said he's seeing increased need for collaboration between IT and other business units, a trend that requires technologists have new kinds of soft skills to be effective in those scenarios. "With the rise of the cloud, there's no longer a need for as much building of software internally as there is a need to configure software that vendors deliver," Altman said. "So rather than writing code, sending it out to end-users and largely being done with the process, IT professionals more often have to work with end-users in agile fashion to prototype and iterate software until those users get what they need." Closing the Soft-Skills Training Gap Despite a perceived lack of soft skills among IT professionals, organizations that provide training to help employees develop those skills are in the minority, experts say. The West Monroe study found that 78 percent of companies surveyed factor soft skills into performance evaluations for IT professionals, but only 59 percent provide soft-skills training for those employees. "This amounts to creating expectations without providing the leadership or guidance to get there, and that's a miss," Layok said. Layok believes the best way to build soft skills in technologists and IT managers is through hands-on experience. "Employers must give their IT folks the opportunity to get out of their cubicles and into the boardroom, where strategic conversations are being held and business decisions being made," he said. "The more they learn how they can influence those decisions and how their business peers think and talk, the better they'll understand how to leverage their communication skills, conflict management and leadership skills to make them ideal partners." Dave Zielinski is a freelance business writer and editor in Minneapolis. District Attorney McMahon, who is running for re-election, used fear mongering and misdirection in his recent editorial urging the good people of Staten Island to contact their representatives regarding the recently-passed Criminal Justice Reform Act. The prosecutor wants the people to think that once the law goes into effect in 2020, the criminals will run wild in the streets while innocent Staten Islanders cower in the corner. But, in reality, he just wants to keep the unfair advantage that he and previous prosecutors have held in prosecuting criminal cases. If things were changed to reflect the opinions of D.A. McMahon, your families, friends, and neighbors would be at risk of being treated as if they were guilty until proven innocent. If we were to have things his way, we would resemble Soviet Russia, Communist China or North Korea. Fortunately for the people of Staten Island, they are innocent until proven guilty. For a long time in New York, the prosecutors were able to throw people in jail, withhold evidence and give them a choice between pleading guilty and going home or maintain their innocence and linger in jail until the overburdened courts are able to give them their day in court. In a system based on justice, this is far from it. Under the current antiquated and archaic New York state laws, prosecutors are allowed to withhold crucial evidence from the defense until the day of trial. This leaves the defendant and his attorney guessing as to what the police reports and witness statements say regarding the alleged crime. While the D.A. improperly claims that the trial-by-ambush tactics are needed to protect the victims, he turns his back on the other group of people he swore to protect, the wrongfully accused. His worry that victims and witnesses would be scared off by defense attorneys are not founded in reality. One just needs to drive across any bridge that connects to Staten Island and see how the policies that the new law is based on work. The Kings County District Attorneys Office has been practicing open file discovery for decades. In Brooklyn, the defendant receives the evidence against him almost at the start of the case. Yet, witnesses are still showing up to court. Victims are still pressing forward and testifying at trial. Same thing goes for New Jersey. None of what D.A. McMahon warns about is actually happening. More importantly, D.A. McMahons own office follows these policies when it comes to misdemeanor cases. Does the D.A. think that the same attorneys who handle misdemeanor cases will just throw ethics out the window and attempt to influence and scare off the witness just because the charges are more serious? This is absurd and a direct slap to the integrity of the defense members of the Bar, many of whom supported his initial campaign for District Attorney. In most cases, the defense attorney does not directly interview the victims or witnesses. That is primarily done through the use of private investigators, who are retired law enforcement officers. Is the D.A. saying that only active members of law enforcement are trustworthy? Of course not. To suggest otherwise would be to insult the many retired law enforcement officers that the D.A. currently has working for him. Its time for D.A. McMahon to give Staten Islanders equal access to justice as our Brooklyn and New Jersey neighbors enjoy. D.A. McMahon also attacked the Bail Reform Bill. While he points to the removal of cash bail for many offenses charged, it does not remove bail requirements, cash or bond, in the most serious cases, which seems to be the point of the legislation. Bail must still be set for serious charges, which may impact the safety of witnesses and victims of the crime. Under the law, the purpose of bail is to ensure that a defendant returns to court when required. It is not to keep the defendant, who may not be guilty of any crime, incarcerated while the prosecutor delays the case for years. If the prosecutors remembered this when they requested bail to be set, there would be no need for this piece of legislation. Lastly, D.A. McMahon would want people to believe that everyone that goes before the parole board is granted release, but that is far from the truth. In two recent cases, the Parole Board was held in contempt for refusing to grant parole, after the Court ordered a new hearing. In one case, while being incarcerated for over 35 years, the inmate obtained 2 college degrees and was instrumental in establishing a number of programs that linked inmates with counseling and education programs. The inmate also served on a committee that mediated disputes between prisoners and correctional staff. Yet, the Parole Board continued to deny the release, citing infractions that occurred when the inmate was a teenager. If such an inmate is denied parole, then there is no chance for others. The law is here to protect all persons regardless of race, creed, background, or economic status. D.A. McMahon should want a fair and balanced criminal justice system, the same way our Founding Fathers designed it to be. The Staten Island Criminal Defense Lawyers Association supports the Criminal Justice Reform Act. Click here for an update to this story, detailing the NYPD efforts during the rescue. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Emergency officials on Monday evening rescued a boat in distress at Great Kills Park. NYPD and FDNY personnel were among those at the scene. Emergency responders received a call at 5:58 p.m., asking for help in Great Kills Harbor, an FDNY spokesman said. The vessel reportedly lost power, he said. NYPD Harbor Unit responded and towed the boat back to safety, according to a Police Department spokesman. The NYPD Air-Sea Unit had a visual of the boat from the air. Harbor Launch 314 towed the boat with three people on board back to Great Kills Yacht Club. No injuries were reported. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A Meiers Corners man who was the kingpin of a billion-dollar international ring that smuggled marijuana into the U.S. is not only being put on ice for a decade, hes on the hook for nearly $1.2 million. Jonathan Braun, 35, was sentenced Tuesday in Brooklyn federal court to 10 years in prison and fined $100,000 for spearheading an operation that illegally imported more than 110 tons of pot from Canada through a Native American reservation on the New York border, said Brooklyn federal prosecutors. The drugs had a conservative retail value of more than $1.7 billion dollars, prosecutors said. Braun must also forfeit almost $1.1 million previously seized from his home and various safety-deposit boxes, which he controlled, court papers show. In May 2010, Braun was indicted in Brooklyn federal court on marijuana conspiracy, marijuana distribution and money laundering charges. Federal prosecutors said he operated the ring between November 2007 and mid-2010. Braun was supplied by a consortium with ties to the three most powerful organized crime groups in Canada, including the Hells Angels, said prosecutors. Those groups control virtually all of Montreals drug trade, court filings said. The contraband was concealed in vehicles entering New York from Canada through the Akwesasne Native American reservation in upstate Franklin County, said authorities. Prosecutors said the weekly shipments of pot were delivered to "stash houses" on Staten Island and in Queens. Street-level dealers then distributed the marijuana in the metropolitan area, including the Island, court documents stated. In November 2011, Braun pleaded guilty in Brooklyn federal court to conspiracy to import 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds) of marijuana or more and conspiracy to launder drug proceeds, said prosecutors. Afterward, he was released on $8 million bond, pending sentence. In a pre-sentencing memorandum, defense lawyer John C. Meringolo asked that his client be sentenced to 10 years, the mandatory minimum. Meringolo said Braun had turned his life around after his arrest, getting married, becoming a father and maintaining gainful employment. The lawyer said Braun has worked for the past five years as a manager and risk analyst at a private lending company. Meringolo said Braun had committed his crimes when he was young and admittedly foolish. The mandatory minimum sentence of 120 months imprisonment is undoubtedly sufficient to punish and deter Mr. Braun and others from committing similar crimes, wrote Meringolo. A spokesman for Richard P. Donoghue, U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, declined comment on the sentence. The sentencing doesnt conclude Brauns legal woes. In December, New Jersey resident Matias Fortgang sued Braun alleging the defendant vicious(ly) attacked and shoved him off a deck outside another Meiers Corners home in July 2018. Both men were attending an engagement party. Fortgang suffered severe injuries, including multiple fractures requiring surgery, his civil complaint alleges. A law enforcement source previously told the Advance he is unaware of any criminal charges being filed against Braun stemming from the episode. The suit was recently stayed in state Supreme Court, St. George, pending Fortgangs posting of a security bond as an out-of-state resident, court documents show. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The party is over! Following a summer-like Memorial Day Weekend, residents returning from the Jersey Shore and other parts of New Jersey are fighting traffic at the boroughs bridges. The Goethals Bridge and Outerbridge Crossing are both "experiencing heavy delays headed to Staten Island, according to the Port Authority. Photos sent to the Advance from Route 440 in Perth Amboy, N.J., around 5:15 p.m. already showed traffic starting to backup along the approach to the Outerbridge. However, traffic appeared to be moving smoothly at new electronic tolls just beyond the crossing on Staten Island. The Goethals also was experiencing traffic delays headed toward Staten Island due to the general volume of traffic on I-278, the Port Authority said. The Brooklyn-bound side of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge also is experiencing delays due to traffic on the Belt Parkway, according to 511New York. Have photos from your nightmarish commute home? Email them to ISpezzamonte@siadvance.com, post them in the comments below, or tag #SILive on Instagram or Twitter. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Less than a week after hate speech was written on a yeshiva wall in Meiers Corners, nearly 100 Staten Islanders, including religious and community leaders, gathered at a unity rally on Tuesday to denounce hate and encourage peace and kindness. The unity rally was held at the Chabad of Staten Island on Tuesday. The graffiti was discovered on the side of the building Thursday morning, the eve of Lag BOmer, a Jewish holiday celebrating unity and freedom from persecution. The words, Synagogue of Satan, were written on the Chabad of Staten Island, while across the street, the letters SOS were written on the Yeshiva Zichron Paltiel of Staten Island, referencing the aforementioned phrase. Residents and members of the Jewish community were joined by local elected officials, NYPD Assistant Chief Kenneth Corey, borough commander of Staten Island, and the Staten Island Hate Crimes Task Force. Rabbi Moshe Katzman told the crowd that when he first learned of the graffiti on Thursday morning, he wanted to keep the vandalism quiet, and not make it a big deal. After people started to reach out to him, and photos of the hate speech spread on social media, he made the decision to use this hateful crime as a way to spread kindness. For every act of evil, we need to double and re-double our acts of kindness and this is the only way we can continue our life, said Rabbi Moshe Katzman. All we want to do is help another person, it doesnt matter who you are and what you are, what you look like, male, female, black, white, Spanish, Chinese. Its irrelevant. He continued: It shouldnt just be, Oh, its only graffiti.' No. This graffiti on the walls is going to show us and teach us that we, a handful of Staten Islanders, the forgotten borough, isnt forgotten. We woke up. Sometimes they call us the bedroom community. Were waking up. And we will show the world we can get together. Look at this room. Its a Tuesday morning, look at this room. And we are going to do the right thing and I dont know exactly how to do this, but we got to do it. PROPOSES STUDENT RALLY Rabbi Katzman said the community needs to come together to send messages of kindness, teaching especially to young children. He suggested students from public and private schools join together for a rally before the school year ends. Rep. Max Rose, District Attorney Michael McMahon, Borough President James Oddo, Assemblymembers Michael Cusick, Nicole Malliotakis and Michael Reilly, and Councilmembers Joseph Borelli and Steve Matteo, spoke at the unity rally to encourage kindness and push back against hate. To further condemn anti-Semitism, elected officials painted over the hate speech on the side of yeshiva, using supplies provided by Matteos Clean Team and Dennis McKeon of local non-profit Where to Turn. During the rally, Rose said that Staten Island is one borough and one family -- defined by the rabbis, imams, pastors and civic leaders of the community. Its important that we condemn anti-Semitism today, Rose said. I say that as a Jew, I say that as your congressman. But I also ask, as Rabbi Katzman alluded to, that we carry on with the full knowledge that we as a people are so much better than this. WE REFUSE TO GIVE IN Rose added that Staten Island is defined by its acts of compassion, not hate. We continue to lift each other up and we refuse to give in and let whoever committed that act of hate outside, he said. We refuse to let them win because we will always speak to our better angels, we will always seek to come together and we will always seek to make sure that this country fulfills its values. McMahon said his office has been working diligently to provide resources to the yeshiva, while the NYPD continues to investigate the hate crime. Were taking a stand for light, because only light can defeat darkness, he said. Were taking a stand for love, because only love can defeat hate. Were taking a stand for all people and all religions that they can enjoy the benefits and protections of American society, our constitutional principles, the freedom of religion, the freedom of association, the freedom of speech and together we are taking that stand. We on Staten Island are taking a stand against hate and for love. NYPD Assistant Chief Kenneth Corey asked for anyone who had information about the graffiti to reach out to the NYPDs Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-8477 (TIPS). According to McKeon, the SOS graffiti will be removed from the school by the end of the week. Incidents of hate speech are not uncommon on the borough, as the Advance reported on multiple instances of anti-Semitic graffiti found on Staten Island over the years. Wagner College condemned the anti-Semitic graffiti, noting the rising number of incidents on Staten Island. Such acts have no place in our society and I urge the authorities to aggressively seek out and bring to justice those who have perpetrated these heinous acts, said Richard Guarasci, president of Wagner College. Controversy rose more recently when Westerleigh residents began placing signs on their lawns that read Westerleigh Strong. The motto was in response to realtors asking Westerleigh homeowners to sell their homes. Some viewed it as a response to residents from the Boro Park section of Brooklyn, a largely Orthodox Jewish community, seeking to move to that section of the Island. Opposition by some to an influx of Jewish residents grew, particularly after an eruv -- an overhead religious wire -- was installed in the neighborhood, which the Advance learned on Thursday was quietly taken down. 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! Controversial tech group GetSwift has landed in hot water with the stock exchange after an undisclosed 'strategic partnership' in Kuwait appears to have sent its shares soaring by 20 per cent on Tuesday. Former AFL player Joel MacDonald has taken a few knocks since starting up Getswift. Credit:Sebastian Costanzo The last mile logistics operator faces a shareholder class action and is being sued by ASIC after allegedly misleading the market by not revealing in 2017 that half the customer contracts it had boasted did not generate a cent of revenue. Now, it appears to be in trouble with another corporate regulator for the opposite reason: failing to disclose a 'strategic partnership' in the Middle East nation. The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) suspended GetSwift from trading on Tuesday after its shares rocketed as much as 20 per cent on high turnover. "ASX observed some unusual trading and share price movement in GetSwift Limited (GSW) securities following this mornings open," said a spokeswoman for the sharemarket regulator. "Trading was suspended at 12.07pm, pending a response by the company to ASXs price query." Myer has struck a deal with its biggest landlord Scentre Group to shrink one of the stores it had slated for closure, the first such deal in what it hopes will be a new way of reducing its rent costs. The company announced on Tuesday it would reduce its Belconnen store in Canberra from three floors to two rather than close the outlet as previously announced. Myer said it had agreed to shrink the store rather than close it, which is its new strategy for dealing with its over-sized footprint. Credit:Wayne Taylor The move reflects chief executive John King's new strategy to deal with the retailer's oversized store footprint by handing back space to landlords in exchange for lower rent and to then use the remaining space more efficiently. Myer announced in 2017 that store in Belconnen would close this year. But Myer said on Tuesday it had signed a new lease with Scentre Group, and agreed to consolidate the store onto two floors and share the cost of refurbishing the remaining space. Tim Clipsham started the business from his home. Credit:Christopher Pearce "I think it's really important to focus on a specific niche as a business and do well at it and I saw a huge opportunity on Atlassian marketplace," he says. "With any business there are many risks you have to face whether on a platform like Atlassian or whether it is other competitors, but I believed the benefits outweighed the risks." His costs of starting up the business were minimal with Clipsham initially working from his home. "In terms of a software start-up there are not many large upfront costs you just need a laptop which I already had," Clipsham says. "The main challenge was how to reduce personal expenses to put more into the business, rent was a big expense so my wife and I moved house to a cheaper place." Clipsham says while there were challenging moments building Good Software but demand for its apps grew steadily enabling him to hire a team of four. Things were going according to plan until Atlassian "reached out" to him. It wasn't my goal to be acquired. It wasn't something I was thinking of. Tim Clipsham Reaching out "The Atlassian team really talked through the circumstances we were in and the benefits of joining a greater team," Clipsham says. "I was looking at what is the best outcome for the customer and for my team, I wanted to make sure they were looked after, and obviously for my wife and me for all the hard work we put in. The more I thought about it, the more Atlassian made so much sense. I thought the way to have maximum impact with what I had created was to join the team." Clipsham and his team moved across to Atlassian just over a month ago and he has been given a role as a senior product manager. Mike Cannon-Brookes, co-founder and co-CEO of Atlassian, which bought Good Software. Credit:Louie Douvis "It's been surprisingly smooth to tell you the truth because we really knew the Atlassian culture from being part of the ecosystem," he says. "I am really excited for the growth opportunities that are here not just for me but also for the team members." Clipsham won't disclose how long he is contractually required to stay but says the sale was "a really good outcome" for him. "It wasn't my goal to be acquired, it wasn't something I was thinking of," he says. "There is benefit to having a plan but the most important thing is building a really good team and doing great work for your customers. If it distracts from that then you are working on the wrong area." Fuelling Atlassian's growth Good Software is Atlassian's most recent acquisition with the Australian tech giant paying $US295 million for OpsGenie last year and $US166 million for planning software provider Agile-Craft in March this year. With a valuation of more than $US30 billion, the workplace software business continues to grow, both through acquistions and organically. Atlassian's marketplace is one of the keys to its success with over 25,000 developers on the ecosystem, many more than the number of developers in the company. The staff at the Bay Hotel in Mordialloc loved their job until wages ran dry, cheques issued to suppliers bounced and the pub closed without notice. It was heartbreaking, former head chef David Gregor said. Former staff of The Bay in Mordialloc, including David Gregor (centre) rallying outside the shut-down pub. Credit:Eddie Jim Gregor joined the team in January as a sous chef and was promoted soon after when the head chef quit. Along with the new role, Gregor said he was given the job of finding new food suppliers. The 35-year-old previously ran the Frankston RSL so was able to use those connections to organise deliveries. But alarm bells started to ring when publican Andree Chaaya requested the orders be paid with forward-dated cheques. Markets make decisions about whether new coal mines are built and not politicians, Anthony Albanese wants Australians to know. The new Labor leader is in Queensland where voters overwhelmingly sided with the coalition at the May 18 federal election. Labor leader Anthony Albanese speaks during a media conference at the Caboolture Hub, north of Brisbane, on Tuesday. Credit:AAP With mining jobs vital in some parts of the state, Mr Albanese has been under pressure to declare whether or not he believes Adani's proposed Carmichael coal mine in the Galilee Basin stacks up economically. But the Sydney-based MP insists that's not his job. If Labor's vote in the federal election is replicated when the state goes to the polls in 2021, Premier Mark McGowan's landslide majority would be wiped out, returning the party to the number of seats it held before winning office in 2017. A preliminary analysis of how Western Australians voted on May 18 has spooked a number of first-time Labor MPs who watched massive swings against the party. An analysis of how Western Australians voted at the federal election reveals Labor would be in big trouble if the result is replicated at the next state election. Credit:Chris Hopkins When federal booth results are overlaid onto state boundaries, Labor would lose 21 seats and face swings of up to 25 per cent in some of its safest seats. But an elections expert who has seen the analysis has counselled caution about reading too much into transposing federal election results onto state districts and vice versa. Two years ago, we gathered in the red dust for a ceremony at Uluru and offered a gift to all Australians. There was a great sense of hope about what this gift could deliver. A new beginning, an opportunity to re-define who we are as a country. A country that celebrates its First Peoples and resets the relationship between all Australians for a better future. Despite the recent setbacks and the rejections, I still hold a deep sense of hope, because I genuinely believe that this gift will benefit all Australians. And I believe that Australians are looking for a way to move forward together. Noel Pearson signs the Uluru Statement from the Heart in May 2017. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen The Uluru Statement from the Heart calls for constitutional reforms to empower our people and take a rightful place in our own country. When we have power over our destiny our children will flourish. They will walk in two worlds and their culture will be a gift to their country. The Dee Why RSL Club faces a disciplinary hearing following an investigation into allegations of irresponsible gambling practices after the death of one of its customers last year. Gary Van Duinen died by suicide after an all-night gaming binge at the club that occurred after family members begged the club to help curb his gambling. Joy Van Duinen holds a photo of her son Gary, who took his own life after a 13-hour gambling binge. Credit:Janie Barrett Liquor & Gaming NSW has completed an investigation and as a result lodged a formal disciplinary complaint with the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority (ILGA). According to Mr Van Duinens mother, Joy, by the end of his life her son was commonly spending up to 13 hours at the clubs poker machines, and had destroyed both his business and his marriage. A months-long investigation between NSW Police and the Australian Border Force into cocaine and MDMA imported from Spain led to a truck driver and his encrypted mobile phone on Monday. Police this week raided nine different storage units in Brookvale, Cromer, Chatswood, Artarmon and Macquarie Park, after 312 kilograms of cocaine and 236 kilos of MDMA hidden in a shipment of shampoo bottles were seized by Australian Border Force officers. The truck driver was arrested in Cromer. Police raid a storage unit at Cromer on Monday, where they arrested a truck driver. Credit:NSW Police Investigators believe the drugs, worth approximately $140 million, were destined for regional NSW. State Crime Commands Acting Assistant Commissioner Stuart Smith said on Tuesday that the seizure is the most significant of its kind. Polluters punished Two companies were convicted in the Central Court of polluting waters in Sydney. The Nestle Company was fined $100 on a charge of having discharged liquid cocoa butter into Abbotsford Bay and Bernard Lawrence Pty Ltd was fined $50 on a charge of having discharged mill effluent into Sheas Creek at Alexandria. Both companies were also directed to pay $25 professional costs and $2 court costs. Bolte blunder Victorian Premier, Sir Henry Bolte, accused the ABC of deliberate sabotage of his TV election talk earlier in the week. The ABC telecast the wrong speech, one that was taped and shown earlier this month. This was either deliberate sabotage to ridicule me, injure my party and deny me the right of a final message to electors or a series of bungles, he said. The ABC deeply regretted the inexcusable error. Gretel II departs While most of its policies were admirable, Labors fault in this past election was it wasnt reformist enough. Had it opposed the Adani mine outright, it would have generated huge support in southern states and swung a few critical seats. Queensland was lost anyway, with its policy of sitting on the fence. - Jenny Goldie, Cooma Illustration: Matt Golding Credit: Coal must be stopped, globally. Other fossils fuels must also go. The transition cannot begin too soon. Affected communities such as mining towns must be compensated. There will be other opportunities in mining copper and lithium and other minerals needed for a cleaner, safe future; in renewables projects, irrigation, in impact mitigation and in sustainable farming. If the Morrison government is bent on energy agnosticism, it will recklessly fail us all and instead of becoming a leader a renewable energy superpower it will make Australia into a carbon bludger and thereby excuse every other nation from real, effective action to avoid catastrophic climate change. - David Sargent, Castle Hill It would appear a new innovative policy for the conservative side of politics would be to propose exploitation of the undoubted oil and gas reserves under the Great Barrier Reef. The resulting jobs bonanza and angst generated on the left side of politics would ensure the majority of Queensland seats remain conservative and may wipe Labor out altogether in Queensland. - Bill Higgins, Cammeray Metro lines can expand rail links to all of Sydney Thank you Matt OSullivan for stating the obvious: we need proper upkeep (and modest expansion) of our existing rail network (Dont forget existing rail in rush for shiny new train lines, May 28). Upgrade Redfern station. And send these shiny new metro lines to those parts of Sydney not yet served by rail. Divert the metro at Sydenham towards Miranda via Brighton-le-Sands. We wont get the best overall system until we make the existing network function optimally. - Matthew Doherty, Balmain It is clear the passengers who used the Epping-Chatswood line have returned (Riding high: new line passes peak-hour test, May 28). It will take time to build patronage further west. The lack of meaningful metrics makes it difficult for the government to ensure we have an effective integrated land use-transport plan that addresses our needs and the environment. - Peter Egan, Artarmon The Hills gets a train service that took four years to build but we on the northern beaches are still waiting. Our previous federal MP never tried to get funding for a rail service from Chatswood to Dee Why. Maybe now we are no longer a blue-ribbon seat we might stand a chance. - Eira Battaglia, Seaforth Having read several spine-chilling accounts of rogue computer systems resisting manual attempts to rectify near-fatal and fatal situations in air travel, I wouldnt be touching a driverless train with a 10-foot barge pole. - Aaisha Slee, Hurlstone Park Policy without politics Mark Latham suggests contentious laws, such as the greyhound racing ban, should be put out to community focus groups to prevent half-baked policies being rushed through Parliament (Push to overhaul how laws are made, May 28). Thats terrific because over 80 per cent of the community agreed with the ban. Not the result that he is probably expecting. This initiative is long overdue and would depoliticise policy making, allowing legislation to be properly considered and the interests of the community represented. - Janine Burdeu, Mona Vale How about snuffing out unsafe laws before they invite death and disability. The smoking-allowed Smoke-free Environment Act condones situations where 100 smoking gamblers can sit in a 75 per cent enclosed/ legally unenclosed room. Pub and club workers are then exposed to the toxins in gamblers second-hand smoke. - Margaret Hogge, Curl Curl Those who like sausages and respect the law should never see either being made. - Greg McCarry, Epping Millions of quiet voices in unison Professor Anne Twomeys lucid explanation of a possible Indigenous voice to Parliament should be prescribed reading for all politicians, the media and our learning institutions (Uluru body is not a third chamber, May 28). How simple and ennobling it could be for us all. - Anne Garvan, Chatswood One cant help be struck by the convergence of the two most pressing existential and moral demands confronting our nation: Makarrata and meaningful action on climate change. With over 60,000 years of sustainable stewardship of this land to learn from, it is time we stop preaching be more like us and accept the gracious invitation from our first Australians to start listening. - Ali Ritchie, Mona Vale May the hearts of all Australians be open to hear this invitation in the Uluru Statement from the Heart. - Esmey Herscovitch, Vaucluse I suggest that a lapel badge be designed, in a form approved by Indigenous leaders, which supporters of the Uluru Statement from the Heart can wear in a public demonstration of solidarity with First Peoples. The proceeds from sales of the badges could be used to support the campaign. - Robin Margo, Macmasters Beach I would like to join such a movement and, in this very special week, I believe there are millions of others who would also join it. I do hope Scott Morrison listens to these millions of quiet voices. - Susan Emeleus, Ermington The forthright actions by the Herald in launching a campaign for constitutional recognition for Indigenous Australians will be welcomed by the majority of Australians, with polls showing more than 80 per cent in favour. I hope the Voice of the Heart will gain wide support. - Ruth Fink Latukefu, Newport As a white Australian who has worked for more than 50 years on Indigenous issues, I am excited that the Herald is campaigning on this issue. I was devastated with Malcolm Turnbulls dismissal of the Uluru Statement from the Heart. But now it seems a re-elected Scott Morrison may be reconsidering. If he is serious, we could have the bipartisan political support essential to pass a referendum. Your campaign may be crucial in refuting, or at least neutralising, the inevitable scare campaign against it. Over the years I have worked for Indigenous leaders including Galarrwuy Yunupingu, Pat Dodson and Noel Pearson among many others, and I understand how complex and fraught Indigenous politics can be. The fact that so many nations could unite in the Uluru declaration shows that this side of the argument is, if not yet settled, certainly ready for discussion. Their agenda is sensible, cautious and inclusive. It must not be sidelined again. - Mungo MacCallum, Ocean Shores It is far past time that our First Peoples were heard speaking for themselves in the national conversation. The notion of a vote on broad principles is a good one and would get things moving a lot faster. The Uluru Statement explains their thinking and the very different relationship the tribes have with the land, in which their entire culture is deeply rooted. I wish your campaign every success. - Meg Vella, Berry All words no action Your correspondents (Letters, May 28) appropriately represent the Australian sentiment for reconciliation with our First Peoples. And those noble sentiments are expressed elsewhere. But in the same edition, you carry a story of devastation in the law-and-order situation in Dubbo, virtually all of it attributed to alienated Aboriginal people (Crime prevention: harsh means and harsher ends). I wonder whether the pious expressions will ever be reflected in reality? On innumerable occasions I have heard conferences begin with recognition of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation, or whatever the Indigenous group is identified with that area. Then there is a tribute to elders past and present. I look around and ask: Where are they then? Where are the Gadigal people? Where are the elders? You can travel the whole of the Northern Line and barely see an Indigenous person. Go anywhere in Sydney apart from areas such as Redfern, Mount Druitt and La Perouse and they are not there. And where they can be seen, in population clusters like Dubbo, and in the states prisons, you can see the vast gulf between the enlightened statements and the harsh reality confronting a people who remain on the fringe. - Malcolm Brown, Ermington Height of selfishness It is shocking to see the image of the number of mountaineers jostling to reach the summit and the amount of garbage left behind on the worlds tallest peak (Australian latest to be rescued from Mount Everest, smh.com.au, May 28). The inexperienced are blinded by the needs of their personal achievement and they pay money to put their lives and those of others at stake. Added to that is there are no rules about who can climb. Unless there is an emphasis on safety and regulation on the numbers of climbers each year, the deaths and jostling will become a regular feature. - Balasubramanian Ramakrishnan, Cherrybrook Down the drain I find it hard to take the Berejiklian government seriously (Sydneys water restrictions to kick in from June 1 as big dry worsens, smh.com.au, May 28). Last week I reported a leak in a water main outside my house. The woman to whom I spoke thanked me, told me they were aware of it since someone had already reported it and that they would probably get someone out there in about two days. Six days later, after thousands of litres of water had run out to sea, some Sydney Water employees were finally outside my house repairing the leak. - Alex Danilov, Naremburn Manus from the inside In lieu of no front-page news regarding asylum seekers in Manus, Nauru and Australia (Letters, May 28), I recommend the reading of No Friend But the Mountains, by Manus inmate Behrouz Boochani. This harrowing account of the torture and dehumanisation of residents there is all the more remarkable for its lyrical beauty. We are accountable for the atrocities committed in our name. Lets clear it. - Rosemary Bedford, Leura Notorious paedophile Michael Anthony Guider could be assessed for anti-libidinal medication to reduce the likelihood of him sexually assaulting more children when he is released, lawyers for the state government have suggested in court documents. Guider, 68, killed nine-year-old Samantha Knight after she disappeared from Bondi in August 1986. He pleaded guilty to manslaughter in 2002, telling a psychiatrist that she died from an overdose of sleeping pills, but he now denies having a role in her death. Samantha's body has never been found. Michael Guider arriving at a Sydney court after he was charged with manslaughter. Credit:Steven Siewert On Monday, barristers for the State of NSW argued Guider should be kept behind bars beyond the expiry of his 17-year manslaughter sentence next week, noting a "real and unacceptable risk" he will commit another serious offence if released. Guider's legal team opposed the application, revealing he has been seriously bashed twice while in custody, one assault leaving him with short-term memory loss. He fears further assaults after his cellmate described as his "best friend" was killed. Three young pedestrians have been seriously injured in two separate incidents in Sydney's western suburbs on Tuesday afternoon. Police said two girls, aged 13 and 11, were struck by a utility vehicle that mounted the curb after a collision with another car in Merrylands, at about 3pm. The girls had been walking down Davies Street when the black Holden Colorado utility travelling south down that street was involved in a collission with a white Toyota Corolla at the intersection of Morris Street. The girls were taken to Westmead Childrens Hospital in a serious but stable condition. The 44-year-old female driver of the Toyota was taken to Westmead Hospital with minor injuries, while the 51-year-old male driver of the Holden returned a negative breath test and is now assisting police with inquiries. Brisbane's Labor councillors have called for smoking to be banned in King George Square, but were not successful in convincing the LNP administration to consider the idea. At Tuesday's council meeting Labor councillor Kara Cook (Morningside) asked community arts and lifestyle chairman Peter Matic (Paddington) if the council would ban smoking in the square, dubbed "the ashtray of the CBD" by deputy opposition leader Jared Cassidy in 2017. There are fresh calls to ban smoking in 'ashtray of the CBD'. Credit:Michelle Smith Cr Cook said in light of World Tobacco Day on Friday, and in light of the complexities of smoking issues in the city, it would be appropriate for the council to ensure King George Square was fully welcoming for all with no exposure to second-hand smoke. "Labor councillors have called repeatedly for smoking to be banned in King George Square will you support a ban on smoking in King George Square?" she asked. Brisbane City Council will actively seek out local small businesses to contract for the council's procurement spend, lord mayor Adrian Schrinner has pledged, but opposition councillors have criticised his promise as "hollow". At Tuesday's meeting, Cr Schrinner made the promise to invest 80 per cent of the council's procurement spend in Brisbane and south-east Queensland businesses to support the region's industry. Brisbane's lord mayor Adrian Schrinner has pledged new small business contracts. Credit:Brisbane City Council Cr Schrinner said the council would also weight quotes from Brisbane businesses with an additional 30 per cent in their favour when considering tenders. "Going forward I'd like to see the vast majority of our business going to south-east Queensland businesses," Cr Schrinner said. Tourists heading north of Brisbane are set to get a fresh slice of The Big Pineapple as the ageing attraction undergoes a $6.8 million internal makeover. The inside of the Sunshine Coast's most famous tropical fruit will be refurbished in the next step of a 10-year plan to return the towering fibreglass pineapple to its 1980s popularity. The Big Pineapple. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen The master plan, announced in 2017, included a hotel, "glamping" (or glamorous camping), eco-villas and nature walks among the specialty food preparation hub. Project director Jim Costello hoped the makeover would return the Big Pineapple to its "glory days". A Hervey Bay school on the southern Queensland coast is in mourning after two students were killed in the crash that claimed the lives of a mother and her four children. Meanwhile, the local councillor representing the inland southern Queensland community where the head-on smash occurred, said it was the worst tragedy she could remember happening in the area. Kawungan State School principal Mark Jones said the community was deeply shocked and saddened by the deaths of the two students. "They were both joyful and friendly children who will be greatly missed by all their friends and teachers," he said in a statement. Winter coats will need to be dusted off and electric blankets pulled down from cupboards as temperatures plummet to freezing point in parts of the south-east this week. A cold snap has blown into the Sunshine State just days before winter officially begins at the weekend, thanks to a surface trough that drifted across the coast, allowing cool air to take its place. Margaret Rogers and Karen Roughton from St Vincent de Paul rugging up for the cool weather Credit:Lydia Lynch The coldest part of the state on Wednesday morning was expected to be Applethorpe on the Granite Belt, where the mercury will hover around freezing point, Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Adam Blazak said. The north-eastern suburbs of Brisbane braced for another chilly morning on Wednesday after a drop to single digits on Tuesday morning, with the Brisbane Airport recording a low of 9.5 degrees its coldest morning since August 31. Loading "She might have been 25, but she was so at risk. Believing, trusting, loving, but she was so vulnerable. "She was like a little damaged bird." Police say Courtney had been sleeping rough at the time of her death, and had struggled for many years with mental health issues and drug addiction. They also emphasised that the circumstances of Courtney's life were not what caused her death that violence against women was about the behaviour of perpetrators not victims. Throughout the hardships, Courtney's family had always been there, watching and trying to help. Maxie said Courtney had struggled with depression, anxiety and attachment issues during her teenage years, in part related to her parents' divorce when she was three. Courtney with her Pappou, her late grandfather, whom she will be buried with. She moved from one school to another, including time at Lowther Hall Anglican Grammar School in Essendon, Lauriston Girls' School in Armadale, and then Genazzano in Kew, where she tried for a fresh start after being bullied. When this also didn't work out, she went to several inner-city state schools, however, she was caught with two ecstasy tablets in her late teens and placed on a diversion program by police, which helped her to find a job. "In year 12 she was free falling. Then this diversion thing came in and changed her life. It showed who she was: a capable, smart, loving girl in a work environment," Maxie said. Loading "She got into a program to work at the Department of Health and Human Services Victoria." It was here that Courtney thrived. One Christmas, when the department was preparing to buy gifts for under-privileged children, Courtney made sure they wouldn't get daggy presents and instead bought cheap snap back caps for the kids. "The kids said it was the best present ever," her mother said. "Courtney said, 'You cant give young people the daggy gifts they are giving them. They need to know they are part of a community. They are part of it and not different to their peers.' I was so proud of her. They were so impressed with her." But the job she loved ended with a "sliding doors" moment. "They offered her a senior job at the Prahran office which included a car in the package - a mammoth achievement for her entry level - but then they saw the diversion order. We went to Heidelberg Court to plead with [a] judge to remove the diversion order. They agreed to have the order removed," she said. Courtney with her younger sister. The pair loved to take selfies together and were making a scrap book called "Sister Love". "Then the rejection came because they hadn't removed it in time for a police check. That was a huge knock." Courtney was shattered. The people she worked with said, 'Dont give up, you are so capable'. She loved it, and she wanted to do community work and a diploma in housing but then the demon friends came in, Maxie said. "She did try so very hard and I was shattered for her. She took it so hard." Courtney fell in with a bad crowd and started using ice. Over the next few years, the family tried to get her back on the right path, picking her up from hospital, taking her in. But it took a toll on them. Courtney Herron struggled with a drug addiction and had been sleeping rough at the time of her death. "We tried so hard," Maxie said. "I would ring friends, go through Facebook, track her down. Get access to her Messenger, with her Facebook, and ring people, contact them. I would say, 'You dont know me, Im Courtneys mum, shes left the house. I dont know where she is. "When we knew she was in a psychosis, I would beg dealers. I said, 'I dont care, Im not interested in dobbing you in'. I would say, 'Tell me what street' and would go pick her up. I just wanted to get her help." Sometimes, the department would find her accommodation, however, her mother said it was inadequate. "The places they found for her were so disgusting. No treatment, just putting a whole lot of people together with no support. One time someone busted in her room," Maxie said. "I couldnt leave her and said, 'You are coming home with me'. We had intervention orders in place but she said, Dont leave me Mum. And I couldnt do it." Then, in 2015, Courtney met Ahmet Ozkurt. Courtney Herron with her former boyfriend Ahmet Ozkurt. He was a Kurdish refugee from Turkey who had fled to Australia for a better life and was working as an electrician. "He fell in love with her and wanted to save her and she fell deeply in love with him," Maxie said. "He tried to control the drug intake, be there for her mental health, protect her against people who she associated with, that whole horrible world. She did not fit into that and he knew that." Loading They had been planning to get married, but before they had the chance he was taken into a detention centre after complications with his visa. Courtney blamed herself for missing the appointment for his visa renewal. "Courtney was destroyed and said, I did this, I destroyed him. He doesnt deserve to be there. He loves me and he tried to help me. Please help me Mum, make this right.' So I became his advocate." Maxie has written to politicians, the ombudsman and the immigration department in a bid to help Mr Ozkurt get out. She now sees it as her mission, a last wish granted to Courtney. "I need to make sure, even though she is gone, I want to keep going," she said. Tributes left in Royal Park by Ms Herron's family. Credit:Paul Jeffers "She begged me, please, please do whatever you can to make this right for me. If we as a family could right that wrong we would alleviate all that stress and pain and guilt she was carrying. "I want her to look down with my Dad in heaven and say, 'You haven't let me down. You made it happen'." The last time her family had contact with Courtney was at Greek Easter this year, when her grandmother visited Courtney at the Austin hospital. Courtney had been staying with her grandmother a few days before but had left in the middle of the night, leading her worried family to begin the search again. But she had blocked her mother from communicating with her and they were unable to track her down. Courtney Herron's mother weeps at the site of her death in Royal Park as her grandmother and other family members stand by. On Monday, Maxie visited the site where her daughter's body was found. She couldn't look at the patch of ground where Courtney's body had laid hours before. She fell to her knees, and wept. Now, as they prepare for the funeral, the family is trying to focus on the good times with their girl: the time she devoted to scrap booking with her little sister, laughing and dancing at Greek Easter last year, enjoying time with family and friends during Christmas as a child. Victoria Police fear for the safety of the man formerly charged over the murder of a three-year-old and have sought a court order to protect him from the missing toddler's brother. Police served the interim intervention order on Ricki Nash, the older brother of Cheryl Grimmer who went missing in 1970, preventing him from stalking, approaching or contacting the Victorian man, who cannot be named. The man accused of Cheryl Grimmer's murder as extradited to NSW from Victoria last year. Credit:NSW Police The protected person was due to face trial in the NSW Supreme Court this week over the death of Cheryl at Fairy Meadow Beach in 1970. However he walked free once his 1971 confession to the crime was ruled inadmissible. The Heart Foundation has bowed to a barrage of criticism and removed a contentious scene from its new television advertisement which suggested that people who dont look after their health dont love their families. The campaign, called Heartless Words, featured a mother tucking her son into bed as she tells him: "Every time I told you I loved you I was lying you are not my priority". But following a backlash from both health professionals and people who had lost a loved one to the disease, the Heart Foundation edited the ad and completely cut out one scene with a mother and child. The 30-second advertisement, which remains on social media, still features another mother on her deathbed telling her daughter: "It's not just my heart I don't care about, it's yours as well." The AFL community is reeling following the death of Anna Green, the wife of Demons champion Brad Green. Ms Green, a mum and lifestyle blogger, died on Monday, leaving behind two young sons, Oliver and Wilba. Brad Green and Anna Green arrive at Crown. Credit:Vince Caligiuri Tributes have started pouring in for the former flight attendant, who described herself on Instagram as a lover of sunshine, palm trees, yoga, beaches, travel, summer, sunsets, cocktails [and] style. Her husband made a touching message to his wife on social media. A psychiatrist who got a patient pregnant after she was referred to him following a workplace sex assault has been banned from practising until next year. The patient saw Luke Ainsworth five times during 2016 and a personal relationship unfolded between them. She had been referred to him by her psychologist after a workplace sex assault and subsequent attempt at self-harm. The woman told a tribunal that during her first appointment, Dr Ainsworth questioned her in detail about her sexual history in a "voyeuristic" way. She alleged he encouraged her to contact him and meet up out of hours. Renowned comedian and best-selling author Ben Elton is joining the world's top surfers at Western Australia's most famous break to call for climate change action. As professional surfers including current world champions Gabriel Medina and Stephanie Gilmore prepare for the 12-day Margaret River Pro, which begins on Wednesday, Elton will address the Climate Action Summit overlooking the Main Break. Ben Elton has joined surfers in Margaret River to call for action on climate change. Credit:Nick Moir The outspoken Englishman has previously taken aim at the Australian government for climate change inaction and done so again. "I believe that grass roots community initiatives like this one are even more important since the recent election result," he said. Weve spent half a million dollars proving that our site is not contaminated. Theres been no contamination occurring to our neighbours, theres been no risk to the environment, theres been no risk to environmental values or human health, which is the criteria for declaring a site contaminated, he said. Loading On the allegation he had run a business without a relevant license, Mr Avila said his business had been vindicated. That allegation was tested in the Magistrates Court through a four-year prosecution launched against my business, myself and my parents - we were exonerated on all matters, he said. In every single case we have been vindicated ... in the legal process. Weve won all the cases. Mr Avila said each decision was only reached after a monstrous forensic investigation into 6500 electronic and physical records, which found the department had ultimately failed to adequately regulate the business. He said there had been an issue when the department changed over waste codes in 2014, and said the controlled waste tracking system falsely indicated Bio-Organics had accepted unauthorised waste for over 10 years when it had actually been operating within the constraints of its license. You can fight for your innocence but [once] the facility is closed and no longer built, the ability to restart is impossible, he said. Our employees [were] let go and were just floundering trying to preserve our name and defend ourselves in court. Weve got kids that grew up in the area, and ... you have these murmurings in the community that Im an environmental terrorist. Its pretty hard. Perths a pretty small area, a pretty small community and people hear my name and hear my business and just do a quick Google and you see a whole bunch of nasty articles and allegations. Somehow, I hope theres a light at the end of the tunnel. That people will see that the allegations were false, that the communitys fears can be alleviated and they can go back to living their lives not concerned about something theyve been misinformed about. I can go on with my life. Im a businessman, I always have been, and I can go on and create new opportunities - but this is hanging over my head. But neighbours who claim to be affected by Bio-Organics said their fight was not over. Local real estate agent and landowner Mal Dempsey was one of the first residents to bring up issues with Bio-Organics, with his 20 hectare investment property sitting close to the Oakford site. He said his block of land was classified as possibly contaminated by the department over six years ago, and he was no closer to finding out what caused a patch of vegetation on his property to die completely. Vegetation on Mal Dempsey's property. An independent report he commissioned found the tree deaths were "abnormal". Credit:Mal Dempsey My property ... was purchased as an investment and a future legacy for my children and grand-children, he said. I [dont] live at this property however feel for those and the neighbours that do ... it is now six years since all this hit the fan and we are still no closer to resolving the issues. We cannot do anything with the property until it is cleared of any classification by DWER, whether it is possibly contaminated or not. We are very disappointed with the regulator who was found by a parliamentary inquiry to be asleep at the wheel - and indeed continue to sleep. It appears they are waiting for the problem to wash away. Mr Dempsey said he understood the issue was with the departments regulation controls rather than Bio-Organics, but there needed to be strict supervision and ongoing controls on other businesses in the future. A department spokesperson said it did not accept the change of its waste code had impacted Bio-Organics, and rejected claims it had altered records of what type of waste was going into the business. The Department of Water and Environmental Regulations controlled waste tracking system was considered in the parliamentary inquiry by the Standing Committee on Environment and Public Affairs, the spokesperson said. Police are searching for a man they believe used the credit cards of a young man attacked and beaten in Northbridge earlier this year. On February 10, police said the 21-year-old man was seriously assaulted, then robbed of his mobile phone and wallet outside a nightclub on Aberdeen Street. The man was caught on CCTV. Credit:WA Police We need to determine the identity of this person who was captured on CCTV at a later time using the stolen credit cards, a WA police statement said. Its understood the man is not wanted for the assault, but for the series of fraudulent transactions made using the PayPass feature. The man responsible for community safety and multiculturalism in Scott Morrison's new ministry has pledged to work closely with Islamic, Sudanese and other key communities but is making no apology for leading the charge against "African gangs" in his home city. Liberal MP Jason Wood, a supporter of Peter Dutton in last year's leadership coup, will now work underneath Mr Dutton in the Home Affairs portfolio as assistant minister for customs, community safety and multicultural affairs. Liberal MP Jason Wood is the new assistant minister for customs, community safety and multicultural affairs. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen While Mr Wood was yet to be sworn in and receive his first briefings, he said he intended to focus on nationwide versions of integration and intervention programs that had already succeeded in his own multicultural electorate of La Trobe, in outer-eastern Melbourne. "When you say 'there's nothing to see, nothing to worry about', you then can't go and get funding for all these programs," Mr Wood told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age on Tuesday as he prepared to join Mr Morrison's outer ministry. A key Coalition proponent of constitutional recognition of Indigenous Australians has warned that strong bipartisan support will be crucial for a successful referendum and rushing the process could risk a Brexit-like outcome. Julian Leeser, a Liberal MP and co-chair of Parliament's constitutional recognition committee, said it would be premature to stake out political positions before the completion of a comprehensive "co-design" of the referendum proposal. Liberal MP Julian Leeser: "We have got to get this right." Credit:Andrew Meares "Nobody in Australian politics wants to put up a referendum that doesn't succeed, so we have got to get this right," Mr Leeser said on Tuesday. "We know that to have a referendum pass you need to have bipartisan support. Kathmandu: A 62-year-old American climber has died on Mount Everest, bringing the death toll this season on the world's highest peak to 11. Christopher Kulish "saw his last sunrise from the highest peak on Earth," his brother Mark Kulish said in a statement. Christopher Kulish beneath Mount Everest. Credit:Mark Kulish/AP Mark Kulish said that his brother scaled Everest in nearly ideal weather after last week's crowds cleared, becoming a member of the "7 Summit Club" as he scaled the highest peak on each continent. Christopher died early on Monday during the descent, his brother added. Hong Kong: Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam has told an Australian audience it was "speculation" and "absolutely untrue" that Hong Kong would lose its distinct identity as the Chinese Communist Party pushes ahead with an economic plan to link the former British colony with nearby mainland cities. Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam. Credit:Bloomberg Lam will travel to Australia to promote the Greater Bay Area, the Chinese governments plan to create an economic hub linking Hong Kong, Macau and Chinas technology centre of Shenzhen, among nine mainland cities. She will call for Australian companies to invest in the project, which has already seen China build the worlds longest sea bridge to link the islands by road with the mainland. Tax concessions that would allow professionals living in Hong Kong to work under the same conditions within the Greater Bay Area on the Chinese mainland have been announced. Along with our Great Barrier Reef and America's Grand Canyon, Mount Everest is commonly and justifiably included in the list of the worlds greatest natural wonders. Like the former two, its the whole Everest massif, not just its singular, pre-eminent summit that constitutes this wondrous phenomenon. The stellar cluster of adjacent peaks and the glaciers they feed; on the southern, Nepal side, the valleys carved deep by tumbling rivers, cloaked in rich and distinct altitude-graduated vegetation; on the other side, the starkly different, high undulating plateau of Tibet, where aridity lies bare, the bones of the earth exposed to the thin cold air and intensely bright high-altitude light. All add to the richness and complexity. The mountain itself is the central jewel, the enduring symbol of human hope, striving and achievement, the primary reason why, especially on the more diverse Nepal side, tens of thousands flock to make the arduous trek up towards points below it to gaze in wonder at the all-round spectacle, and why climbers, and those who aspire to be climbers, harbour the desire to stand on the highest point on earth. The crowds have brought comparatively great wealth to the Sherpa people, who live in the valleys on the Nepal side. Theres hardly a house where glass windows dont feature prominently, whereas in other parts of Nepal, adorned by lower but no less spectacular mountains, glass windows are rare or non-existent, the people are poor. The government reaps a rich reward as well, collecting more than $4 million annually from climbing permits alone. Yet little of this gets put back into managing the burgeoning problem of overcrowding. Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia's last male Sumatran rhinoceros has died, an official said on Monday, dashing efforts to save the critically endangered species in the country. The rhino, named Tam, was about 30 years old and lived at a wildlife reserve in Sabah state on Borneo island since his capture in 2008, Christina Liew, state minister for tourism, culture and environment, said in a statement. There could be as few as 30 Sumatran rhinos left in the wild. Credit:Jeremy Hance The Sumatran rhino, the smallest species of rhinoceros, was declared extinct in the wild in Malaysia in 2015. Iman, a female captured in 2014, is now the only surviving member of the subspecies left in the country. Another female rhino, Puntung, died in captivity in 2017. Yangon: Myanmar has granted early release to seven soldiers jailed for the killing of 10 Rohingya Muslim men and boys during a 2017 military crackdown in the western state of Rakhine, sources have told Reuters. The soldiers were freed in November last year, the sources said, meaning they served less than one year of their 10-year prison terms for the killings at Inn Din village. Reuters journalists Kyaw Soe Oo, left, and Wa Lone were arrested for their work that uncovered the 2017 massacre. Credit:AP They also served less jail time than two Reuters reporters who uncovered the killings. The journalists, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, spent more than 16 months behind bars on charges of obtaining state secrets. The two were released in an amnesty on May 6. Reuters spoke to two prison officials, two former fellow inmates and one of the soldiers to confirm the early release of the soldiers. London/Brussels: The European Union will not renegotiate the Brexit deal that Prime Minister Theresa May agreed, Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker said on Tuesday, as concerns grew that a successor to May could trigger a confrontation with the bloc. Brexit is up in the air after May announced plans to step down, triggering a leadership contest in the ruling Conservative Party that could bring a new prime minister to power who wants a much more decisive break with the EU. One of the candidates, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, said it would be "political suicide" to pursue a 'no deal' Brexit, a reprimand to frontrunner Boris Johnson who said last week that Britain should leave with or without a deal by the end of October. Hunt, who voted to stay in the EU in the 2016 referendum but now accepts Brexit, said he would try for a new agreement that would take Britain out of the EU customs union while "respecting legitimate concerns" around the Irish border. Miami: An Australian man whose wife disappeared while they honeymooned at sea has been sentenced to eight years in prison for involuntary manslaughter. Lewis Bennett, 42, apologised to the family of Isabella Hellman during a hearing before US District Judge Federico Moreno in Miami on Tuesday. He waived his right to appeal. Lewis Bennett with Isabella Hellman. Credit:Facebook Bennett was originally charged with murder, with investigators alleging he intentionally tried to sink the boat, but later dropped the charges. Bennett, a dual Australian-British citizen, had asked the judge to let him out of prison sooner so he could raise the couple's daughter, who turns three in July and is being raised by his parents in Scotland. The Australian teenager dubbed "Egg Boy" after he smashed a raw egg on the head of far-right Senator Fraser Anning has donated $100,000 toward helping those affected by the Christchurch mosque attacks. The money was raised on two Go Fund Me pages set up by others after Will Connolly, 17, egged Anning, who had blamed Muslim immigration for the shooting. Egg Boy Will Connolly. Credit:Channel 10 In an Instagram post, Connolly said he had donated $99,922.36 to the Christchurch Foundation and Victim Support. The post did not say whether that was Australian dollars, but if it is, the amount would be nearly NZ$106,000. The money was transferred "after a huge amount of red tape", Connolly said in the Tuesday evening post. Wellington: Substance over style. It is what many New Zealanders hope to see when Jacinda Ardern's government unveils the nation's first "wellbeing" budget this week. For Ardern, who created a buzz at the World Economic Forum at Davos in January by pitching her approach to budgeting as "doing things differently", the challenge will be to move the dial for the likes of Mark Potter. NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, seen here in Singapore, has vowed to deliver a "wellbeing" budget on Thursday. Credit:AP Potter, the principal of Berhampore Primary School in Wellington, says his staff and students are on the frontlines of decades of rising inequality that New Zealand's popular Prime Minister has promised to address in Thursday's budget. "What you see with children is very, very heightened anxiety, you see children who are often exhausted because they just can't sleep, we've got children who aren't eating properly," he said, adding a third of his 300 students come from low-income backgrounds and around half a dozen are homeless. Mexico City: A Japanese man who ingested 246 packets of cocaine died mid-flight on his way from Colombia to Japan, authorities say. The Aeromexico plane was forced to make an emergency landing in Hermosillo, northern Mexico, after the man, identified only as Udo "N", started having seizures and convulsing. Aeromexico The man boarded the jetliner from Mexico City and was headed to Narita, Japan. The Attorney-General's office for Sonora issued a statement confirming the man's death. An autopsy was performed in Sonora following the emergency landing on Friday, local time. Rio de Janeiro: A non-government group that monitors the Amazon rainforest says the pace of deforestation is increasing. Imazon said that satellite imagery show the region lost 2169 square kilometres (216,900 hectares) of forest in the most recent August-through-April period. A deforested area near Novo Progresso in Brazil's northern state of Para. Credit:AP That's a 20 per cent jump from the 1807 square kilometres lost over the same nine-month period the previous year. Analysts blame uncontrolled logging and land invasion for much of the loss, some of which occurred in protected areas and Indigenous reserves. PHILIPSBURG --- The LARIMAR investigation which began some years ago and wrecked-havoc on St. Maarten began on Monday in the Court of First Instance. Based on the proceedings it already showed that Ronald Maasdam the Dutch Consultant that worked for Windward Roads and other companies made a deal with the Prosecution for a lighter punishment. LARIMAR investigation deals with corruption, bribery and money laundering involving top politicians The session started at 2 pm and the prosecutor has presented the prosecution's case against the first suspect, Ronald Maasdam. Via live-streaming video from The Hague in the Netherlands, already Maasdam's attorney, Robbert de Bree, is questioning the status of the dossier regarding his client's involvement and pointing out the fact that certain documents are missing from the dossier. According to the prosecution, Maasdam has to be heard as he has signed an agreement with the prosecution for a lower punishment. The second suspect in the LARIMAR investigation is suspended Member of Parliament, Theodore Heyliger, who is scheduled to hear the case against him presented this afternoon at 4 pm. However, sources say Heyliger checked in to the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) awaiting to undergo surgery this afternoon. However, Heyliger left the SMMC last week Tuesday afternoon (May 21st) when the Appeals Court decided to let him go on several conditions, one being that he must present himself during the hearing. Heyliger already had a surgery to remove a small tumor on his kidney. So far details on the pending surgery have not been forthcoming especially since Heyliger was seen conducting his business operations as usual last weekend. Heyligers attorney Peppie Sulvaran did not make it on time for the hearing on Monday as it was understood that his flight from Curacao had a delay. Initial reports indicate that the prosecution is indicating links between the LARIMAR investigation and the EMERALD investigation, which has to do with the investigation at Port St. Maarten and it's managing company, the Harbour Group of Companies, whereby the Port Director Mark Mingo, Checkmate Security Director ONeal Arrindell and member of Parliament Frans Richardson are implicated as suspects. The prosecution has presented allegations that several invoices from Windward Roads have been found at the port pertaining to the Emerald investigation. However, from the initial presentation, it seems that the prosecution is not quite fully prepared in this case. It looks like in their haste to present their case the prosecution is not yet ready as the defense attorney continues to poke holes in the case. According to the summarized information presented, the prosecution holds the contention that Windward Roads offered They Heyliger bribes in excess of millions in cash, hundreds of thousands in free work on his house and even by extending financial lines of credit. It is expected that more will be presented as the case continues to be investigated before reaching the final stage of completion. Key witnesses still have to be heard and presented in this investigation. The questions remain now whether the court hearing at 4 pm will be heard if Heyliger is not present to hear the charges levied against him. The possibility that Heyliger will be re-arrested in order to secure his appearance in court is a serious likelihood given the conditions of his release for medical reasons. SMN News will bring you more updates on the ongoing trial. MARIGOT:--- A 37 year old has been remanded to Her Majesty Prison in Anguilla for theft on May 27th. The suspect has been identified as Justin Junior Miath 37 year old male from French St Martin was arrested and charged for the offence of theft in the sum of US $4,800 from the automated teller machine (ATM), the property of The National Commercial Bank of Anguilla. Mr. Miath appeared before the magistrate court on Friday 24th May 2019 where the charge was read to him. Bail was denied, and he was subsequently remanded to Her Majesty Prison, to re-appear in court on Wednesday 31st July 2019. The RAPF would like to remind the public that made the announcement on their FACEBOOK page regarding the arrest and remand of the suspect. SMN News further learned that a female suspect also from French St. Martin is in custody in Anguilla on the same charges. The suspect it is understood is an employee of the Collectivity of St. Martin who was participating in the strike that began in January 2019. So far no details on the female suspect has been released. PHILIPSBURG:--- It was quite apparent to many that the Minister of TEATT evaded the question posed by Member of Parliament Doran during Fridays CTEATT meeting. Minister of TEATT Stuart Johnson stated during the meeting that the hiring process of the airports new CFO is in its final stages. MP Doran then asked the Minister if he thinks it is ethical to be finalizing the process of employing someone, without following the proper channels like advertising the vacancy in the newspaper, so that a local person could have the opportunity to apply. Minister Johnson broadly elucidated that he believes that the patrimony of local people should be protected. However, he never answered the question that was posed. When MP Doran asked for clarification and pointed out that the Minister did not answer his question, the Minister offensively said that he would dumb-it-down for the Member of Parliament. MP Doran stated that it came as no surprise to him that the Minister would stoop so low regarding a question that has the people of St. Maarten at the forefront. Doran said that the Minister often gives broad responses that sound good but have no substance and do not answer the questions posed by the Members of Parliament. Though the Minister stated that he believes that the patrimony of the local people should be protected, Doran challenges the honesty of this statement. It is clear that the Minister of TEATT together with other Ministers, are selling out our Country one managerial position at a time. It is also clear that they do not consider the local people to be competent enough to hold these positions. If they do, then why are they so submissive to the Dutch government? Why did the Minister of TEATT allow Mr. Mingo to imply that our local people cannot hold the CFO position because they do not have the ability to crunch numbers? Why are they so lackadaisical and not fighting for the people in which they swore to serve? The people are being left behind and forgotten time and time again. Its really a sad situation. When the Minister stated that the hiring process of the CFO was in its final stages, I simply asked him if he thought that the process was done ethically, as it was not advertised for locals to apply. I asked this question because it became clear to me that yet again, the people of St. Maarten were being robbed of an opportunity in their own country. It really bothered me, so that is why I could not let the agenda point close without seeking clarity, Doran stated. The Member of Parliament also stated that the shareholder reps., which is the Minister of TEATT, is at the top of the chain-of-command. The Minister is then followed by the holding company (PJIAH) and then the operations company (PJIAE). He further explained that based on the chain-of-command, if there is an open vacancy on the managerial board, the Minister has a responsibility to instruct the Director of the holding company (PJIAH) to start the hiring process. Therefore, it is questionable that the Minister would imply that the hiring process has nothing to do with him. It seems as if Minister Johnson has no clue as to how the process goes based on his distancing himself as if he is not at the helm. Doran suspects that the reason that the Minister avoided his question is because the position is already filled by a non-local candidate brought forward by the Dutch Government. It is sad to witness the Ministers lack of passion for our people. His deflection will not deter me from standing up for the people of St. Maarten and demanding answer to the questions that they deserve. I will continue to serve my country, focused and unphased. ~ 4 charges levied against Heyliger, Ronald Maasdam and associates paid huge sums of money for government contracts. Heyliger house was repaired, he collected cash and Dodge Charger.~ PHILIPSBURG:--- Suspended Member of Parliament Theodore Heyliger showed up late with his lawyer Peppie Sulvaran in court on Monday afternoon. The proceedings on Monday was a procedural hearing ( Regie Zitting) where the proceedings were discussed since the case is deemed complicated. Heyliger was stacked with at least 4 charges all of which alleges that he accepted bribes in the form of money and other gifts. These monetary and other gifts were given to Heyliger from 2004 to 2019, a period of 15 years while he was holding government offices and or functions. He is accused of taking almost $4M in bribes as a politician whether he was a commissioner, Minister or Member of Parliament. The first charge states that Heyliger received from Windward Roads money, property in Upper Princess Quarter a Dodge Charger Vehicle and had his private home repaired all of which was for construction contracts. The second charge indicates that Heyliger received from DEVCON and/or Ronald Maasdam and others the sum of $700.000 for dredging work which was awarded to Devcon. The third charge has to do with the Causeway as it relates to Volker Stevin involving Ronald Maasdam, from all indication based on the indictment Maasdam served as a State witness against Theodore Heyliger. The fourth charge indicates that Heyliger was part of a criminal deal or cover up with the sale of several properties. The indictment presented by the prosecution states that from 1 January 2004 to 31 March 2014 while in St. Maarten and or Netherlands Antilles, Anguilla, and or Panama, and or the United States of America has repeatedly accepted one or more gifts and or promises from Windward Roads BV and or Concrete Mix BV from another main suspect in the LARIMAR investigation Ronald Maasdam, and Consultech, S.A and or J. Jones, those gifts amounts to USD 1,847,685.24, at least; and cash of approximately USD 850,000 and or; a giro cash amount of USD 40,000.00 and (a part of) a plot of land, registered under SXM UPQ 038/2004 (Mullen property).( Upper Princess Quarter). A redirection line and or redemption of outstanding invoices for the benefit of Caribbean International Maritime Co. NV and or Sint Maarten Shipping & Stevedoring NV and or Nichirei Carib Co. NV, worth ANG 900,000, or at least any amount of money, and or; work on the home of the suspect to the value of ANG 135,292.88, or at least some money and or a car (Dodge Charger), valued at approximately USD 200,000,00. Having a suspect other than for whatever reason and or not for all reasons, one or more government contracts for (construction) work awarded to Windward Roads B.V. and or have used his influence to ensure that Windward Roads B.V. was awarded contracts, and or the suspect has entered into and or maintained a relationship between him, the suspect, and Windward Roads B.V., whether or not via a third party, in order to obtain possible governmental contact. The indictment further states that in around April 1, 2009 to January 1, 2011 in St. Maarten and or the Netherlands Antilles and or Anguilla and or the Isle of Man and or the United States of America accepted gifts from Devcon TCI Ltd. and or Ronald Maasdam and or Caribbean Advice and Consultancy Ltd., being those gifts and or promises; amounted to of USD 700,000, at least; cash amounts of approximately USD 82,468.37 and or a cashless amount of USD 260,000, or at least some amount of money and or (part of) a parcel of land registered under SXM UPQ 038/2004 (Mullen property) Heyliger is accused of doing these things for business reasons and not only owing to having more government contracts awarded to Devcon TCI Limited for dredging whether by his own person or by using his influence to ensure that Devcon TCI Ltd was contracted. The indictment further alleges that the suspect has entered into and maintained relationships with Devcon TCI Ltd even through third parties to ensure future contracts are awarded to the company. Further, the charges state that Heyliger from February 1, 2010, to March 31, 2014, has taken part in one or more donations and or promises, from Volker Stevin Caribbean NV or Ronald Maasdam or Advanced Consultech SA with monetary amounts to USD 1,065,524.25 and or USD 179,000, or cash amounts of approximately USD 83,000. The fourth charge states that from September 9th, 2011, to February 2019 Heyliger was involved with the sale of property namely the Mullen Property in Upper Princess Quarter. The charge alleges that Heyliger knows the real heir, the origin, place of origin and the alienation and or the movement hidden and or disguised, always hidden and or disguised who the person entitled to that object was or who held that object while he knew that the aforementioned object - immediately or indirectly - came from criminal activities. The defense asked the court to hear some witnesses which were granted no date was set for the continuation of the trial. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 28) A group of UV Express van operators is calling on transport officials to defer the implemention of a new policy that modifies their service route to a point-to-point (P2P) or terminal-to-terminal system. On Tuesday, the operators said the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) policy will force them to lose passengers as they will only be able to pick up and drop off commuters in designated terminals, instead of within the two-kilometer radius previously allowed. This would also mean an additional cost to passengers, as well as add extra time to their commute. Operators are afraid this would make passengers stop using their service altogether, adding passengers are against the policy as well. They are asking LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra to defer the implementation of Memorandum Circular 2019-025, and instead study first how it should be done. The memo signed May 15 imposes stiff fines for violators of not lower P5,000 and cancellation of franchise for repeat offenders. Meanwhile, UV Express drivers in Cebu City have also expressed dismay over the memo. Eduardo Montealto Jr., LTFRB Central Visayas regional director, said the policy will be implemented on June 1, and its impact will be felt on June 3, when classes begin. Drivers say the policy could result in conflict between passengers and drivers with the drivers getting the brunt of a commuter ire as they will not be able to disembark at their usual spots. In an interview with CNN Philippines Monday, Ariel Inton, president of the Lawyers for Commuters and Safety Protection said a compromise could be agreed upon on select loading and unloading areas. "Ang compromise pong suggestion namin is to have a selected loading and unloading bay areas. For instance, kung sa pag-aaral nila ay makita nila na isang lugar dun maraming sumasakay, maraming bumababa, then you can have that as a loading and unloading ng mga UV Express," he said, [Translation: The cmpromise we suggest is to have selected loading and unloading areas. For instance, if in their study they see people riding or disembarking at a certain area, they can have that as a UV Express loading and unloading bay.] Enforcement of the original plan was the problem, Inton said. Selected stops would prevent incovenience to passengers. In a statement Tuesday, the LTFRB said the memo is " in line with the original policy of UV Express service." The regulator said it has observed "that numerous UV Express Services are in breach of the terms and conditions of their franchise, leading to the rampant practice of loading and unloading of passengers in between their origin and destination, prolonging the turn around travel time between destinations and making it very difficult on the part of the enforcers to implement the service." CNN Philippines correspondent Makoi Popioco and stringer Dale Israel contributed to this report. THE VALLEY ANGUILLA:--- The 29-year-old St. Martin resident identified as Renita Catherine Emmanuel was arrested in Anguilla and charged with theft and conspiracy to theft while going equipped to steal and in possession of Criminal property. Emmanuel a Collectivity was part of the months-long strike on the French side of this island hoping that she would have been made a permanent civil servant. The Royal Anguilla Police Force posted on their Facebook page the press release outlining the charges Emmanuel is facing. Renita Cathrine Emmanuel 29 yr. old female of St James, St Martin was arrested and charged for the offences of Theft, Conspiracy to Theft, Going equipped to Steal and Possession of Criminal Property. Miss Emmanuel appeared before the magistrate court on Monday 27th May 2019 where the charges were read to her, bail was denied and she was remanded to Her Majesty Prison, to return to court on Monday 12th August 2019. The RAPF would like to remind the public that: a) The defendant is entitled to a fair trial; b) There is a presumption of innocence until proven guilty; c) Nothing would be stated or published which would prejudice a fair trial taking place; and d) Section 115(g) of the Criminal Code applies and which provides for an offence in respect of any person who, while a judicial proceeding is pending, makes use of any speech or writing misrepresenting such proceeding or capable of prejudicing any person in favor of or against any parties to such proceeding, or calculated to lower the authority of any person before whom the proceeding is to be held. Randy Dick B.Sc. Public Media Relations Officer Royal Anguilla Police Force Grand Case:---The Be the Change Foundation has provided $800 in funding for Les Fruits de Mers Citizens of Change project. The project will highlight St. Martiners who have made a difference on the island. The stories of their work will be featured in an exhibit at Amuseum Naturalis at The Old House, and also online. We are thrilled that Be the Change and their local donors have supported this project, said Les Fruits de Mer President Jenn Yerkes. Local kids need a place where they can see the faces and read the stories of the people that made St. Martin what it is. It is one of our goals for Amuseum Naturalis and something this project will do. The first installment of the project will feature about a dozen people. The project aims to spotlight a variety of people, including teachers, writers, artists, builders, farmers, craftsmen, cooks, parents, and storytellers. During March, Les Fruits de Mer requested nominations from the public. Based on those nominations, the association decided to focus first on St. Martiners who have passed. As we started researching, we realized its already difficult to find information and images of St. Martiners from the past, explained project leader Mark Yokoyama. In many cases, we feel like were racing against the clock to find and document these exceptional lives. The first installment of exhibits from Citizens of Change project will debut later this year at Amuseum Naturalis. The museum welcomes further submissions of people to feature, and information and photos that can help tell their stories. Amuseum Naturalis is open from 9am to Noon Tuesday to Saturday and admission is free. It is located at The Old House, on the hill above Galion Beach in French Quarter. More information is available at http://amuseumnaturalis.com. ~ Several locals victims scammed from using Marigot ATM Distributor.~ MARIGOT:--- At least one person living on St. Martin told SMN News that the two persons that were arrested in Anguilla and placed on remand for theft at ATM machines seemingly robbed several residents on St. Martin through cloning their Banque Postale cards from a distributor in Marigot. The victim said on May 2nd the culprits debited her card three times within a time span of three minutes each time withdrawing $500.00. Within 3 minutes they debited my card for a total of $1,500.00. The victim further states that the time of the transaction she was at home and in possession of her ATM credit card. She said she believes that there is a major network operating this scam because some kind of system was installed at a local distributor which collects data from a persons real ATM credit card, which allow the scammers to use it on other cards without a chip. The victim further explained that she was already reimbursed but wondered what local authorities or even the Banque Postale is doing to protect its clients and their finances. The Royal Police Force of Anguilla said in a press release published on their Facebook page that two French citizens have been arrested, charged and placed on remand at the Her Majesty Prison. They are 29-year old Renita Catherine Emmanuel of St. James Marigot who appeared in court on Monday, May 27th, 2019. Emmanuel is due back in court on August 12th, 2019 while 37-year-old Justin Junior Miath also from French St. Martin appeared in court on Friday, May 24th, 2019 and he will reappear on July 31st, 2019. Both suspects have been denied bail. Realisation of 5G networks requires more fibre to maximise full potential, highlights Emtelle Hawick, Scotland, 28 May 2019 ? For operators to maximise the full potential of 5G and capitalise on their network infrastructure, fibre should be at the heart of every Fibre-To-The-x (FTTx) and mobile network, Emtelle?s Market Specialist, 5G, IoT and Smart City said today. Speaking ahead of ANGA COM 2019, which will take place in Cologne, Germany next week, Paul McCue explained that given the expected small cells, network densification and 5G requirements, it is essential that fibre is extended further into the mobile network. Fibre all the way to the antenna is becoming a necessity for many operators? fronthaul and backhaul to cater for reliable, low latency and higher bandwidth demands. ?Many companies have already planned and noticed the pivotal role fibre will play in 5G networks, which is acting as a catalyst for them to adopt new approaches to their network builds. As operators switch on 5G, FTTx and existing mobile backhaul will converge, creating a robust network which can support the high-speed, anytime, anywhere connectivity that is required. With fibre at small cells, we see that backhaul connections follow similar routes as street layouts in an FTTx network,? stated McCue. ?At Emtelle, we have identified eight areas in fronthaul and backhaul where our fibre solutions can be used. This includes expanding existing 4G Fibre-To-The-Antennas (FTTAs), network densification, changing C-RAN, vRAN architectures, small cell, new antenna sites, Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) through to indoor solutions. For instance, we are currently working with the Danish Outdoor Lighting Lab (DOLL), which is the country?s National Test Centre for Intelligent Lighting and Smart City services. As part of the project, we deployed our pre-terminated fibre and ducting solution, QWKconnect, that fully integrates into streetlights containing 5G antennas in the DOLL network. QWKconnect is highly reliable and compact enough to be easily integrated in streetlights, traffic lights and city-wide deployments,? McCue said. Emtelle?s FibreFlow WEBFLEX is another crossover technology from FTTx that the mobile industry can capitalise on, McCue went on to explain. Consisting of 12 microducts joined together in a branch formation, the solution?s unique design makes it easy to strip and branch the desired microduct with minimal disruption or risk of damage to the remaining microducts. Fibre-connected small cells are paving the way for 5G by enabling even faster speeds, lower latency and better coordination between cells than traditional network methods. Better coordination and lower latency are essential for the advancement of future applications such as Autonomous Vehicles (AV), emphasised McCue. ?With the evolution of 4G and the architectural changes in the Radio Access Network (RAN), we saw fibre quickly become first choice to many operators given its longevity, ultra-low latency, cost effectiveness and high bandwidth capabilities,? said McCue. ?With increasing network densification and small cells becoming operational, performance expectations in 5G in fronthaul and backhaul are ensuring that fibre will be an even more critical asset in any operators? network. We have seen growth in new fibre and ducting network models to support all types of mobile operators as well as other wireless networks.? The implications for 5G and the FTTx industry will be a key topic of conversation for Emtelle?s teams at ANGA COM 2019, where the company will showcase its full range of blown fibre, cabling and microduct solutions designed to support 5G networks, at Booth A11, Hall 7, from Tuesday, June 4 until Thursday, June 6. For more information about Emtelle, please visit: http://www.emtelle.com/. 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. Election, Debt Exclusion Vote Set in Clarksburg CLARKSBURG, Mass. Voters will decide whether to borrow $1 million to invest in the school and town infrastructure this week, as well as elect new officers and approve a $4.3 million budget for fiscal 2020. The town election will be held Tuesday from noon to 7 p.m. at the Senior Center. There are only two races on the ballot for the Select Board and for the School Committee. Incumbent Karin Robert is running for a three-year term on the Select Board; challenging her is newcomer Danielle Morgan Luchi. Robert, who was elected last year to complete the final year of a three-year term, said she has spent her first year in office learning about the town, its needs and her role as a member of the Select Board. "I really believe in moving the town forward in a progressive way," she said. "I want to represent everyone in the town, from birth to the elders, whatever their needs are, but we need to start looking at doing things differently, the whole town and be more progressive. "It's just taken me a year to figure out what the needs are never mind what the possible solutions are." Luchi has been involved with the school. "My family and I love the town of Clarksburg and everything it has to offer our community," she wrote on Facebook announcing her candidacy. "I look forward to serving my community to the best of my ability." There is still a one-year term on the Select Board that no one took out nomination papers for. A similar vacancy was filled last year by a write-in vote. Eric Denette and David Robert are newcomers vying for the three-year School Committee seat vacated by Patricia Prenguber. Denette is a behavior analyst who has worked as a public school special education teacher and a consultant. In a message to the community, he said it was time to come together as town. "If you're unsure about the future of our school and how to achieve the best outcomes, I hear you," he said. "But let's work together and not become polarized. There is a lot at stake for all of us." Robert is an insurance agent who graduated from Clarksburg School and McCanne Technical School. He said he is running because he wants to get involved in town government and help bridge the divide between the school and town. "I had a good experience here with my education. And I saw how it helped me with furthering my education at McCann," he said. "I just want to make sure that culture is the same way it was when I was here. One of his major concerns is the number of students "choicing out" of the school, Robert said. "I just don't ever recall anybody in my class in '05 school choicing out to North Adams per se, it was always people moving into Clarksburg." Robert is also running unopposed for a five-year term on the Planning Board. All other offices are unopposed and the post of town moderator will require a write-in vote. Longtime Moderator Bryan Tanner declined to run for another term, saying his many years in office was enough. Voters will also determine by majority ballot vote a Proposition 2 1/2 debt exclusion that will allow the town to borrow above the town's levy limit without an override. The ballot vote, if approved, will clear the way for a vote on borrowing $1 million at Wednesday's town meeting. The borrowing approval will require a two-thirds vote. More information is available here. Town meeting will also be requested by two-thirds vote to transfer $38,000 from the school stabilization fund toward the replacement of the school's boilers. These funds will cover the balance of the project, which is largely being funded through the town's Green Communities grant. The school budget, at $2,457,570 is up $48,000, or 2 percent, over this year. The McCann Technical School assessment based on enrollment is $345,051, up $38,905, about on par where it was two years ago. The town operating budget is $1,445,060, down $58,068, or 3.85 percent, over this year. The largest reductions are in the Police Department ($7,620); debt service ($23,082); and health and life insurance ($92,350). A number small-sum lines have been zeroed out this year, including tree warden, Conservation Commission, cemetery and beautification. However, another line item for an ADA Commission has been added at $1,250 related to the town's need to revive its committee and begin an audit for Americans with Disabilities Act compliance. Town meeting will be asked to rename the "Handicapped Commission" to the ADA Solutions Committee to better reflect contemporary language and the panel's mission. The 16-article warrant also has a number of standard annual approvals and a bylaw on dog and animal control that addresses fees, abuse, leash and containment, and nuisance animals. The town election is Tuesday from noon to 7 p.m. at the Senior Center; the annual town meeting is Wednesday beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Clarksburg School. Georgetown, SC (29440) Today Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 76F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Clear to partly cloudy. Low 62F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Sixty years ago today, a pair of female monkeys made history when they went to space and landed safely but their story was only just beginning to get weird. Able and Baker took flight on May 28, 1959, soaring 300 miles (480 kilometers) up during a 15-minute flight. At the time, they were humble female laboratory animals, barely given names for the project before they were stuffed into a Jupiter Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile . By the time the first American human followed them, just two years later, Able was dead, the picture of machismo and sacrifice, while Baker was living in retirement, married off and put on display. "My whole jam with the history of the astronauts is kind of going one step back in time and going beyond the earliest stories that we know about them," Jordan Bimm, a sociologist at Princeton University who has researched Able and Baker in this context, told Space.com. "Almost nobody remembers the story of Able and Baker, who were actually the first primates to be recovered from a spaceflight." Related: Able and Baker: The First Primates to Survive Spaceflight in Photos Before Able, a rhesus monkey, and Baker, a smaller squirrel monkey, faded into obscurity, they were American stars, pawns in a story that became a morass of Cold War stereotypes and symbolism, Bimm argues. "[Their survival] allowed them to perform a sort of PR work and to become, importantly, America's first celebrity space animals," he said. The mismatched monkeys flew as part of NASA's Bioflight #2 mission, along with payloads ranging from blood samples to yeast cells to two frogs. Their predecessors had met horrifying fates: six consecutive monkeys dubbed Albert and one named Gordo were killed by a variety of spaceflight and recovery hazards. But Able and Baker survived their predawn flight and were fished out of the Caribbean safely, and with two live monkeys in hand, the government's spin machine whipped into overdrive. "Recovering these animals alive was a huge priority; they really, really, really wanted them both alive," Bimm said. "Getting some wins on the board for America was crucial." Able and Baker were shipped off to Washington, D.C., to be paraded in front of journalists in the very same room where, just one month earlier, Alan Shepard, John Glenn and their fellow human trainees had been introduced to the world a few weeks earlier. "From the very, very beginning of human spaceflight, humans selected as astronauts had to contend with animals also going to space," Bimm said. "The only difference is that the monkeys had actually been to space, had actually done the job that the humans were selected to do." It's enough to give even the most swaggering of astronauts an inferiority complex. But celebrity isn't easy, and that news conference included the first hint of just how weird the story of Able and Baker would get. Gen. Joseph McNinch, who headed the Army's medical research unit, misspoke, using "he" to answer a question about Able. A journalist corrected him and all seemed to be well but the slip of the tongue began to gain traction. A cartoon Bimm found that was published four days after the flight depicted Able in astronaut garb returning to a harried midcentury monkey wife and baby, the very picture of a jetsetting businessman and absentee father. Related: Photos: Pioneering Animals in Space Able, a rhesus monkey, underwent pre-flight tests in her capsule a week and a half before launch. (Image credit: NASA) The same day that the cartoon was published, Able died. Caretakers noticed an electrode implanted in her skin seemed infected and prepared to remove it, but when doctors sprayed routine anesthetic in her cage in preparation for the surgery, she stopped breathing. The medical team spent 2 hours attempting to revive her even performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation but failed. After her death, Able was eulogized in obituaries, several of which listed her as male. Her skin was stuffed and sent to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum , where she was displayed encased in spaceflight equipment like Han Solo frozen in carbonite. Bimm sees the pose as eternally at work, looking up toward the heavens, hand at her heart. "Unlike other taxidermy exhibits, where the animal is placed in nature, in this one the animal, Able, is completely surrounded by technology," Bimm said. "It has the sort of valence of the fallen soldier." Baker, who was often referred to as Miss Baker, survived the postflight hubbub but remained a public icon. For years, she was on display, first at "Baker's Bungalow" in Florida, then at the Alabama Space and Rocket Center, where her enclosure was labeled "The First Lady in Space." During her retirement, handlers arranged three different "marriages," each heralded with breezy gossip updates. She was thrown birthday parties (despite having been born in the wild) and made to "pawtograph" glamor shots for fans. Baker lived to 27 years old, a record-breaking achievement in and of itself. (Coincidentally, female pilots spent the first years of Baker's retirement lobbying the government to consider them for astronaut training, with 13 passing all the physical qualifying tests that the Mercury 7 took. Their de facto leader, Jerrie Cobb , endured much of the same media scrutiny and stereotyping as Baker did and never quite reached space.) Related: Pioneering Animals in Space: A Gallery Able died just days after the duo's flight, but Baker lived to 27. She spent her later years at the Alabama Space and Rocket Center. (Image credit: NASA) Ironically, before their flight, most of the hubbub around Able and Baker's identity was focused on where the monkeys were born Baker in Peru and Able in Independence, Kansas. (Able's species is venerated in India and so the government insisted on an American monkey to avoid upsetting the geopolitically important country.) But just days after their flight, that rubric was forgotten, erased by a new one. "There's sort of a male/female, masculine/feminine, work and domesticity binary in operation," Bimm said. The dead/alive binary he left unspoken, but for years it separated Able and Baker as well. Until Baker, too, died and was buried below a massive marble headstone inscribed to "Miss Baker, squirrel monkey First U.S. animal to fly in space and return alive." Bimm has visited both Able's display and Baker's memorial . "It was moving," Bimm said. "As a historian, you become really attached to your subjects and a lot of the times my subjects are quite evil people, they're ex-Nazi scientists who come to America and work for the space program, but in the case of Able and Baker, they're these innocent animals." People still visit both monkeys some leave bananas at Baker's grave. But by the time the pair had died, the space program had moved on, and so had space fans. The first space shuttle had launched in 1981, and soon enough the country had humans to mourn, not just monkeys, after the Challenger broke apart shortly after launch in 1986. "The shuttle era had its own tragedies, human tragedies," Bimm said. "Those really served to displace, I think, a lot of the narratives about space." But Bimm argues that Able and Baker's wild story offers important reminders of the baggage that comes with spaceflight gender stereotypes and sex discrimination, jingoism and missile programs, ex-Nazis and animal cruelty among them. All of those undercurrents continue to haunt the U.S. space program. "I hope people see it as a story, as something constructed in the minds of humans, and I hope they see for all animals in spaceflight research that these are unwilling participants," Bimm said. That's especially true because spaceflight research on animals continues to this day and has already been discussed in the context of future Mars exploration . "We need to talk about them realistically and not create these fables and fantasies that paper over the truth." An astronaut-led crew will go underwater to get ready for human moon missions. The 10-day NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations (NEEMO) 23 expedition is scheduled to begin June 10 and will test technologies NASA will use for lunar missions that could come as soon as 2024. Among the crew goals is testing science instruments and tools for work on the moon, including items that will help get "core samples" a cylindrical cross-section of the moon's geology just below the surface NASA officials said in a statement . Apollo astronauts who did lunar missions (between 1969 and 1972) obtained several core samples using a special device called the Apollo Lunar Surface Drill. The mission also includes work that is useful for a variety of deep-space destinations, including tracking sleep and using augmented reality to train crewmembers in navigating their habitat. Astronauts will live and work in the Aquarius laboratory, which is located 62 feet (19 meters) below the ocean surface near Key Largo, Florida. They will also venture outside the habitat to explore the nearby underwater environment. Related: The 9 Coolest Mock Space Missions "The close parallels of inner and outer space exploration will be clearly demonstrated during this undersea mission," Bill Todd, NEEMO project lead, said in the NASA statement. "The daily seafloor traverses, or 'extravehicular activities' in space jargon, are jam-packed with technology and operations concept testing, as well as complex marine science. In the interior of Aquarius, aquanauts and astronauts will tackle an array of experiments and human research related to long duration space travel." Leading the crew will be Samantha Cristoforetti , a European Space Agency astronaut who spent 200 days in space during Expeditions 42 and 43, between 2014 and 2015. She holds the record for longest spaceflight by a European. Joining her will be Jessica Watkins, a NASA astronaut candidate; Shirley Pomponi, a research professor at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute-Florida Atlantic University and professor of marine biotechnology at Wageningen University & Research, Netherlands; and Csilla D'Agostino, whose many affiliations include research assistant professor from the University of South Florida and CEO of the company Ketone Technologies. Accompanying the crew in the habitat will be two professional habitat technicians, who NASA did not name in the press release. Earlier this year, the Trump administration set a goal for NASA to return humans to the surface of the moon by 2024; the administration requested an additional $1.6 billion in NASA's fiscal 2020 budget for this effort. The announcement came in the 50th anniversary year of the first moon landing in 1969. Astronomers may have spotted a distant star spitting out a giant flare that packed 100,000 times more energy than any seen from Earth's sun, a new study finds. The researchers also said they've made the first clear detection of a remote star emitting a kind of eruption known as a coronal mass ejection that were until now only seen from our sun. Such explosions may wreak havoc on any surrounding worlds , lead author Costanza Argiroffi, an astrophysicist at the University of Palermo in Italy, told Space.com. Scientists are most familiar with the dynamics of our own sun. Solar flares are the largest explosions in Earth's solar system . Our star unleashes these intense bursts of radiation when magnetic energy that builds up in the sun gets suddenly released. The blasts can endanger satellites or astronauts in orbit. Related: Monster Solar Flare Marks 7th Powerful Sun Storm in 7 Days Often, solar flares are accompanied by the release of giant bubbles of stellar material, and these are the coronal mass ejections . These eruptions are the most powerful magnetic events on Earth's sun, blasting out up to 44 billion tons ( 40 billion metric tons ) of superheated plasma, or clouds of electrically charged particles. One of the fastest recorded coronal mass ejections , detected in 2012, raced across space at up to 7.92 million mph (12.75 million km/h). Scientists have suspected that both of these phenomena occur on other stars as well. Astronomers have spotted brief spikes in average stellar brightness that they believe represent flares . Researchers have also found that other stars could prove up to 10,000 times more magnetically active than the sun, suggesting that they could burst with coronal mass ejections many times stronger than ones seen from the sun. "Stellar coronal mass ejections are thought to be important for stellar physics," lead author Costanza Argiroffi, an astrophysicist at the University of Palermo in Italy, told Space.com. "Stellar coronal mass ejections could cause large amounts of mass and kinetic-energy loss during stellar life. In addition, stellar coronal mass ejections could also affect exoplanetary systems." However, until now, astronomers had not detected any coronal mass ejections from another star, because researchers could not resolve any details on the surfaces of stars. "Stellar coronal mass ejections have been very elusive," Argiroffi said. "In the last few decades, there were a few claims of stellar coronal mass ejection detection, but all were rather uncertain." Now Argiroffi and his colleagues have said they have stronger evidence for such a detection. The researchers focused on HR 9024, a yellow giant star nearly three times the mass of Earth's sun located about 455 light-years from our planet. Using NASA's Chandra space observatory , they analyzed X-rays from the star's plasma, which was a searing hot 7.2 million degrees Fahrenheit (4 million degrees Celsius). The scientists found that light from HR 9024 shifted in frequency in a manner that suggested hot plasma was moving up from and down toward the star's surface. (That change would register in the X-ray data in a phenomenon similar to the Doppler effect, which causes an ambulance siren to sound higher-pitched as the vehicle drives toward you and lower-pitched as it moves away .) The researchers suggested that this was evidence of a coronal mass ejection from the star. The researchers estimated that the coronal mass ejection blasted out about 1.3 million billion tons (1.2 million billion metric tons) of material, a little less than one-quarter the average mass of Earth's atmosphere. The team suggested that the ejection released about 5.2 trillion quadrillion joules of kinetic energy, or about 80 trillion times the amount of energy released from the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima and about 100,000 times more energy than seen from the strongest known flares from our sun. "The detected coronal mass ejection is 10,000 times more massive than the most extreme solar coronal mass ejections, but not as fast as expected," Argiroffi said. " Solar coronal mass ejections can be ejected at velocities up to a thousand kilometers per second [2.2 million mph], while the detected coronal mass ejection has a velocity of 90 kilometers per second [200,000 mph]." That relatively slow speed suggests that the strong magnetic fields of young, active stars such as HR 9024 are not as effective as the sun's at accelerating coronal mass ejections, Argiroffi said. But in general, all these detected qualities "neatly agree with predictions based on flare modeling, proving that our understanding of stellar flares is really robust," Argiroffi said. That said, future research could uncover more stellar coronal mass ejections, allowing scientists to see how else these might differ from the ones produced by the sun, he noted. The scientists detailed their findings online May 27 in the journal Nature Astronomy. An illustration of a spacecraft for deep space missions powered by nuclear thermal propulsion. Congress has added funding to NASA appropriations bills to support development of the technology. PASADENA, Calif. With congressional funding and industry support, nuclear thermal propulsion technology is making progress for potential use on future NASA deep space missions, although how it fits into the agency's exploration architectures remains uncertain. The House Appropriations Committee approved May 22 a commerce, justice and science (CJS) appropriations bill that offers $22.3 billion for NASA. That funding includes $125 million for nuclear thermal propulsion development within the agency's space technology program, compared to an administration request for no funding. "The bill's investment in nuclear thermal propulsion is critical as NASA works towards the design of a flight demonstration by 2024," said Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.), ranking member of the CJS appropriations subcommittee, during that subcommittee's markup of the bill May 17. He offered similar comments in support of that project at the full committee markup. Related: Superfast Spacecraft Propulsion Concepts (Images) The $125 million comes on top of $100 million that Congress provided in 2019, of which $70 million was earmarked for a flight demonstration by 2024. The report accompanying the House bill makes no mention of a 2024 date for a flight demonstration, but does call on NASA to develop "a multi-year plan that enables a nuclear thermal propulsion demonstration, including the timeline associated with the space demonstration, and a description of future missions and propulsion and power systems enabled by this capability." Nuclear thermal propulsion, where a fission reactor heats propellants like hydrogen that are then accelerated through a nozzle, holds the potential of reducing travel times for deep space missions, such as to Mars. While studied early in the Space Age, NASA programs in nuclear thermal propulsion were cancelled by the early 1970s and are only now being revisited. The concept has support in Congress as well as the White House. "As we continue to push farther into our solar system, we'll need innovative new propulsion systems to get us there, including nuclear power," Vice President Mike Pence said in a March 26 speech at a National Space Council meeting in Huntsville, Alabama. That renewed work in nuclear thermal propulsion is being led by the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, which Pence alluded to in his remarks. "And the president and I know there's no place on Earth better equipped to lead the world in pioneering these new propulsion technologies than Rocket City, U.S.A." Some outside NASA also say development of nuclear thermal propulsion is important. "Nuclear propulsion is key to exploiting our capabilities beyond low Earth orbit," said Jeff Thornburg, chief executive and president of propulsion company Interstellar Technologies and a former propulsion executive with SpaceX and Stratolaunch. Speaking on a panel at the Space Tech Expo here May 22, he supported additional work on that technology. "There's some key technology development that really needs to happen beyond the current state of the art," he said. That technology, coupled with electric propulsion, "are the future of how we're going to facilitate that expansion." He acknowledged that, beyond the technological issues, there are regulatory ones involving such systems, whether operated by government agencies or in the private sector. He added, though, he was encouraged by comments at that March meeting of the National Space Council, where new Office of Science and Technology Policy Director Kelvin Droegemeier said his office would be reviewing nuclear space launch policy. It's unclear, though, how nuclear thermal propulsion fits into NASA's long-term exploration plans. NASA's exploration roadmaps, as well as many developed by companies and organizations, have relied on more conventional propulsion technologies, including chemical and solar electric propulsion. Those systems don't offer the shorter travel times of nuclear thermal propulsion, but also avoid its technical and regulatory hurdles. At a May 21 meeting of the NASA Advisory Council's science committee, agency officials showed a manifest of missions projected through 2028 to carry out its planned human and robotic exploration of the moon and development of a Gateway in lunar orbit. None of the missions listed specified the use of nuclear thermal propulsion. A Dim View of the World Will Merkel Be Followed by Darkness? As the end of her tenure approaches, Angela Merkel has a view of the world that couldn't be much grimmer. She sees the pillars of the world order collapsing and yet, strangely, she doesn't seem to be doing much about it. May 28th, 2019 The innovative functional food brand Novo Nutrition and a couple of its enjoyable products, are now available in Canada. The UK based company has partnered with the major Canadian distributor Nutrition Excellence who handles a lot of other great snack brands in the country including OWYN and Barebells. Nutrition Excellence has picked up two of Novo Nutritions great tasting products with its original Protein Wafer and its recently released, higher protein Easy Bar. The brand has only just arrived with the distributor, so you can probably expect to see Novo hitting stores and shelves over the coming weeks. Project Spotlight: Fellowship IDF Vehicles The Fellowship | October 19, 2021 During the High Holy Day season, the vehicles were branded with a Happy New Year wish from The Fellowship and its donors.(Photo: Yahad for the Wellbeing of Israel's Soldiers) Fellowship IDF Vehicles travel around Israel from north to south. And they provide Israels guardians with refreshments and the reminder that Christians and Jews around the world love and support them. Soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) make many sacrifices. They endure long hours of grueling training, life-threatening missions, a harsh desert climate, and time away from family and friends. Fellowship IDF Vehicles travel to IDF bases and outposts to boost morale and show them that Fellowship friends stand with these brave soldiers at the forefront of Israels defense. The simple act of providing them with drinks, snacks, and Wi-Fi connection so they can call their family, shows them how much we love and support them. With The Fellowship, you can support and help protect Israel and her people today. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Rep. Justin Amash, the sole congressional Republican to call for President Donald Trump's impeachment, took aim at Attorney General William Barr on Tuesday, saying that he had deliberately misrepresented key aspects of special counsel Robert Mueller III's report "to further the president's false narrative about the investigation." In more than two dozen tweets, Amash of Michigan detailed multiple objections to how Barr had handled Mueller's report on Russian interference in the 2016 presidential campaign, starting with a memo to Congress in late March that summarized Mueller's key findings and relayed that he decided not to pursue obstruction-of-justice charges against Trump. "Barr has so far successfully used his position to sell the president's false narrative to the American people," Amash said in the final tweet of his thread. "This will continue if those who have read the report do not start pushing back on his misrepresentations and share the truth." The Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Amash's tweets came just hours before he held his first town hall meeting in his Michigan district since declaring on May 18 that Trump had "engaged in impeachable conduct" and becoming a pariah among his GOP colleagues. Amash is already facing two primary challengers, and one of them, state Rep. Jim Lower, told The Washington Post that he raised $60,000 in his first eight days as a candidate. In an interview, Lower said he had not read Mueller's report but agreed with the assessment of most Republicans that it ended questions about Trump's conduct. "Clearly the congressman is going to try to justify his impeachment position to the district tonight," Lower said in a text message. "I don't expect it to be well received with Republican primary voters. Those voters do not want the President to be impeached and they disagree with the Congressman's conclusion. Throughout this primary campaign, I will be the voice for those voters!" Amash's initial tweets on impeachment drew the wrath of Trump, who said last week that the congressman has "been a loser for a long time." Privately, Trump vented to associates about the Michigan lawmaker, according to officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss private conversations. Amash, 39, has long been uniquely comfortable breaking with his party, citing his libertarian principles in regularly opposing GOP leaders on votes ranging from spending bills to the routine approval of the daily House journal. Last week, the wealthy DeVos family said through a spokesman that it was cutting off financial support for Amash. The Michigan-based family, which made its fortune running Amway, decided to stop donating to Amash before his most recent comments about the president, DeVos family spokesman Nick Wasmiller said in a statement. "Family members have expressed increasing concerns about a lack of representation for their district, the Third Congressional, and I would say an inability to advance efforts connected to important policy matters," he said. In his tweets Tuesday, Amash took issue with the rationale Barr offered for not indicting Trump on obstruction charges before the Mueller report was publicly released. "Mueller's report says he chose not to decide whether Trump broke the law because there's an official [Department of Justice] opinion that indicting a sitting president is unconstitutional, and because of concerns about impacting the president's ability to govern and pre-empting possible impeachment," Amash wrote. "Barr's letter doesn't mention those issues when explaining why Mueller chose not to make a prosecutorial decision," he continued. "He instead selectively quotes Mueller in a way that makes it sound - falsely - as if Mueller's decision stemmed from legal/factual issues specific to Trump's actions. But, in fact, Mueller finds considerable evidence that several of Trump's actions detailed in the report meet the elements of obstruction." Amash also took issue with Barr's declaration at a subsequent news conference that Mueller had found "no collusion" between Trump's campaign and Russia. Barr implied that the investigation was "baseless," Amash wrote. "In truth, Mueller's report describes concerning contacts between members of Trump's campaign and people in or connected to the Russian government," Amash wrote. "It's wrong to suggest that the fact that Mueller did not choose to indict anyone for this means there wasn't a basis to investigate whether it amounted to a crime or 'collusion,' or whether it was in fact part of Russia's efforts to help Trump's candidacy." O ne of Africas biggest telecoms firms is plotting a float in London that could value it at towards 4 billion. Airtel Africa wants to sell 25% of its stock to new investors, raising almost 1 billion in the process, mostly to pay down debt. It has hired nine banks to get the deal done, including JPMorgan, Bank of America, Citi, Barclays and Goldman Sachs. If all goes well, the stock could start trading in London next month. Airtel Africa raised $1.25 billion (984 million) last year from investors that included Temasek and SoftBank. It operates in 14 African countries including Kenya, Ghana and Nigeria. It is a subsidiary of Indias Bharti Airtel and is also looking to list on the Nigerian stock exchange. Bharti, backed by billionaire Sunil Mittal, is fighting intense competition in its home market from Reliance Jio. Reliances low-cost offer has seen Airtels customer numbers plunge in India. Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump became the first foreign leaders to meet Japan's newly appointed Emperor Naruhito this weekend. The Trumps arrived in Tokyo for a four-day state visit on Saturday, the first of the Reiwa era. The historic trip saw the President and First Lady take part in several traditional activities, including a visit to the Digital Art Museum, tasting local delicacies at the Inakaya restaurant and watching Sumo wrestling. Melania decked out her wardrobe with plenty of glamorous outfits for the occasion, with the past 48 hours alone seeing FLOTUS don over 10,000 worth of dresses. On Sunday, the 49-year-old joined prime minister Shinzo Abe's wife, Akie Abe, at Akasaka Palace. Melania chose to wear a simple white midi dress with floral embroidered detail by Carolina Herrera, paired with statement red heels. The modern dress currently retails for 5,847. Melania Trump and Akie Abe at Akasaka Palace / AFP/Getty Images In the evening, the Trumps attended a lavish state banquet at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, for which, Melania changed into a pale blush caped gown with metallic embroidered feathers by US designer J. Mendel, also a favourite designer of former first lady Michelle Obama. The 4,212 number is now sold out. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are greeted by Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako / Getty Images For her final ensemble of the state visit, Melania chose a vibrant orange floral print coat dress with neon yellow heels. The eye-catching design, from Dries Van Noten's spring/summer 2019 collection, is currently being sold for 1,000. The President and First Lady in Yokosuka on the final day of their state visit / Getty Images 15. The Who They might be best known by many for proving the CSI themes these days, but the Who are, without doubt, one of the best British rock bands of all time. Pete Townshend proved himself to be one of the most expressive British songwriters of the 1960s and 1970s while Roger Daltrey was one of the most commanding frontmen of the era. They were also one of the first British bands to introduce the idea of a concept album, too, with 1969s hugely successful Tommy. Whos Next is one of the great UK rock albums, too, and the band are still talking about their generation five decades on. Georgie Gillard/Daily Mail T he average cost of attending a wedding in 2019 has been revealed and it's rather a lot. American Express has released its annual wedding study which estimates how much guests are likely to spend attending ceremonies in the UK. According to the report, which surveyed 2,000 adults, 2019 guests are set to fork out an average of 391 each to celebrate a big day, which is almost a third more than in 2018. The Amex research also found that the number of weddings that Brits are expected to attend in 2019 has fallen, with the average Brit expected to attend just one ceremony this year, down from an average of three in 2018. The biggest expenses were for hotels, outfits, followed by a wedding gift on which guests are expected to spend an average of 66, up from 57 last year. Here's how the estimated wedding costs break down: Hotel 72 (up from 54) Outfit 68 (up from 50) Gift 66 (up from 57) Hen/stag do 58 (up from 42) Travel 57 (up from 42) Drinks 45 (up from 36) Hair and beauty (25 up from 22) TOTAL = 391 (up from 303) A man has died after he was repeatedly stabbed in a fight near a hotel and leisure centre in east London. Emergency services were called to Warwick Road in Forest Gate, opposite Atherton Leisure Centre, in the early hours of Tuesday. The attack happened at the junction with Romford Road, where the budget Viking Hotel is also located. Photos posted on social media show a cordon in place on both sides of the road and a number of police cars at the scene. The victim, aged in his 30s, was found with stab injuries, police said. Paramedics rushed him to hospital where he died. There have been no arrests. A Met Police spokesman said Officers are working to inform his next of kin. Formal identification awaits. A post-mortem examination will be held in due course. A drill rapper who bragged about gang culture in his songs before stabbing to death a teenager with a machete in a moped ambush has been jailed for life. Joel Amade, 19, admitted he was entrenched in the gang lifestyle to the fullest when he carried out the fatal attack on 18-year-old Jason Isaacs, chasing him down an alleyway before stabbing him repeatedly. He and three accomplices had spent almost 30 minutes scouring the streets of Northolt looking for their target, pouncing on Mr Isaacs as he walked along the road with friends. The Old Bailey heard Amade had been involved in gangs and drug dealing since 2016, and was in the midst of a feud between rival groups in South Harrow and Northolt when he murdered Mr Isaacs on November 18, 2017. Sentencing him to a minimum of 20 years in prison on Tuesday, Judge Mark Dennis QC said the stabbing was a senseless waste of life that accompanies the swell of knife crime across urban communities, affecting everyone. You know this was a shocking and dreadful display of violence, he told Amade. What you did on that fateful night cannot be put down to immaturity, but is rather down to your lifestyle choice. You were mature enough and intelligent enough to know full well the risks involved in making that choice. Joel Amade was convicted of murder and jailed for life It is apparent from your own lyrics you appreciated how destructive to someones life violence can be, whether the victim or the offender subsequently called to account. Mr Isaacs father Steve earlier told Amade he would now be left behind by his gang associates and urged him to reveal who else had been involved in the murder. This is real life, not Call of Duty," he said. I hope you, Joel, come to your senses and bring justice to others involved in this vile attack. Why are you just taking the rap for it? He said violence from postcode rivalries is absolutely nuts, adding: Your gang will forget about you in an instant while you are in prison. Mr Isaacs mother, Sharon Kendall, told the court her son, once scouted by QPR and training to be a carpenter, had said to her I love you mum as he went out the night he was stabbed. Little did I now this would be the last of the goodbyes, I will cherish that forever, she said, adding that a piece of me died when her son passed away in hospital. What you did that night was forever unforgivable, she told Amade. The court heard Amade was one of four moped riders who headed to Northolt armed with knives and in search of violence, scouring the streets before coming across Mr Isaacs and friends. Jason Isaacs, pictured on holiday, was training to be a carpenter He had travelled across London to join the attack, having been moved out of north west London and into care accommodation a month earlier to try to steer him away from gang activity. Amade was also on bail at the time over another incident where he was accused of brandishing a knife, and later conceded he habitually carried weapons when in public. In a probation interview after he was convicted, Amade admitted he was in jail because of what I chose to do, and that he had been entrenched in gangs and living that lifestyle to the fullest. He also conceded that the prison sentence may well have save my life, and if freed he would likely go straight back to the life of gangs and violence. Amade, of Ilford, denied murder at trial, but was caught out by CCTV of the attack as one of his accomplices called out his nickname Jo Jo. He was convicted by a jury last month. T he number of Met officers on sick leave is soaring as a police leader warns that they are dealing with a war zone on Londons streets. Figures show that the number of Met staff on long-term sick leave has nearly doubled in the past four years. In 2014, 1,399 officers and staff were recorded as off sick for more than a month, rising to 2,731 in 2018. Ken Marsh, chairman of the Met Police Federation, which represents rank and file officers, said: There has been an increase in long-term sickness, rather than short-term sick leave. Officers are facing more traumatic situations than ever faced before. They are regularly being called to serious stabbings and are the first to attend. You can equate it to a war zone. They have to deal with these situations and then before they can recover, they are back out there again. He said there had been a big rise in the number of officers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health issues. The figures, obtained by the London Assembly Tory group, emerged as police have faced record levels of knife crime. Mr Marsh added: I cannot think of any other employment where people have to work the sort of hours that my colleagues have to, and they have no choice over this. We need more officers, they are constantly having to cancel rest days. The figures show that the number of officers recorded as sick rose under the last years of Boris Johnsons term as mayor, as well as during Sadiq Khans first two years in the post. Steve OConnell, the Conservative London Assembly spokesman for police and crime, said: London is fortunate enough to be served by thousands of world-class police officers who regularly put themselves in harms way to keep others safe. But these escalating sickness rates show that we are not sufficiently looking after them or giving them the support they deserve. This failure means fewer cops on the streets, making Londoners more susceptible to crime. The reduction in police numbers has put officers under increasing pressure and taken a toll on both wellbeing and morale. He claimed that Mr Khan could recruit hundreds more officers by cutting waste at City Hall. A spokesman for the Mayor blamed crippling funding cuts which had resulted in officer numbers in London dropping to below 30,000 for the first time since 2003. P olice have launched an investigation after a 45-year-old woman was found dead following a house fire. A man and two children were also taken to hospital following the blaze on Cray Avenue, in Orpington, on Monday. Scotland Yard said the two youngsters, a boy and a girl, are not believed to be in a life-threatening condition. Their ages are unknown. A 45-year-old man remains in a life-threatening condition in hospital. Police said the occupants of the house are believed to be family members. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency Services were called to the scene at about 11.15pm. The London Fire Brigade said firefighters were able to control the fire by 12.30am. Part of the ground floor, first floor and staircase of the home were damaged in the blaze. Video footage showed multiple fire engines outside the home, as the force battled to control the fire. T hree men have been arrested over an armed raid on a luxury watch shop in Duke Street, in London's West End, while reality star Spencer Matthews was shopping. Police were called to the store on Tuesday morning at around 10.30am following reports armed men drove to the shop on mopeds before smashing a window, stealing watches and fleeing. Police said three men have been arrested on suspicion of armed robbery and remain in custody at a north London police station. A Scotland Yard statement said: "Detectives investigating a smash and grab raid at a jewellery store in Duke Street have made three arrests. Police outside The Hour House, off Oxford Street, where moped-riding robbers targeted a luxury watch shop / PA "Police were called at 10:32hrs on Tuesday, 28 May following reports that men armed with weapons drove to the premises on mopeds and smashed a window before stealing goods and fleeing. "Officers attended, including specialist firearms colleagues. Spencer Matthews outside The Hour House wearing the watch he came to pick up. / PA "Three men have been arrested on suspicion of armed robbery and remain in custody at a north London police station. "A member of the public, aged in his 30s, was treated for a minor injury; this has been assessed as non life threatening or life-changing." Moped-riding armed robbers target luxury watch shop in London's West End Made in Chelsea star Spencer Matthews described the terrifying moment he hid in a vault while a moped gang smashed into the central London shop. The 30-year-old said he and two friends were visiting The Hour House in Duke Street, near Oxford Street, when it was targeted. He said on Instagram that he had gone to buy a vintage watch when he was forced to hide in a safe while the shop got smashed to pieces by robbers with huge jack hammers. The Hour House in Marylebone was 'smashed to pieces' while Spencer Matthews took cover downstairs with two friends. / PA I was there picking up this vintage piece and these guys drive a scooter through the glass and start battering the shop with big huge hammers, wearing helmets, he said. Were at the back of the shop looking at them, sprint downstairs, hide in vault until the noise passes, come upstairs and the place is just battered. Like I mean Gonzo. All the watches gone, everything. Spencer Matthews posted pictures from inside the shop on Instagram The reality TV star added that he was stunned to discover that amongst all the rubble and all the glass there was one watch left in the entire shop the one he had come to pick up. T hree tobacco smugglers who fled Britain while on bail for evading duty on 2.1 million cigarettes have been jailed after a two-year hunt traced them to Poland. Customs investigators caught Jakub Mloduchowski, 23, and Dariusz Szwarc, 28, unloading 335,700 illegal cigarettes, worth an estimated 85,000 in duty, at a lock-up in Wembley. When officers searched the premises they found another 1.8 million non-duty-paid cigarettes and 341 kilos of hand-rolling tobacco. A carrier bag with 62,750 of cash was also seized in June 2016, Harrow crown court heard. Jakub Mloduchowski admitted three counts of fraudulent evasion of excise duty and was sentenced last week to 13 months. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) arrested Mloduchowski and Szwarc, both of Harrow, and Andrzej Wozniak, 42, of Wealdstone, who was found hiding in womens lavatories. But the trio fled the UK when granted bail with conditions that they surrendered their passports. Andrzej Wozniak, 42, of Wealdstone, was found hiding in womens lavatories The men were tracked to Poland and brought back to the UK last November and December after HMRC applied for European Arrest Warrants. Duty due on the 2.1 million cigarettes and tobacco was calculated at 634,404, an HMRC spokesman said. Dariusz Szwarc received a 10-month jail terms for admitting one charge of evasion of duty Jobless Mloduchowski admitted three counts of fraudulent evasion of excise duty and was sentenced last week to 13 months. T wo young men were stabbed to death on a weekend of bloodshed which took the total number of people murdered on the streets of London this year above 50. Another man is fighting for life in hospital after being attacked by a hammer wielding mob trying to steal his moped from a car park in Battersea. In the first fatal attack of the weekend Alimuz Zaman, known as Alom, was chased and stabbed up to seven times with a Rambo knife in Mile End. He was ambushed as he went to buy food to break fast with his family, who said he had broken up an argument between two groups of men earlier in the day. The 23-year-old collapsed in a pool of blood outside a childrens play centre in St Pauls Way at about 4.30pm on Sunday. Medics battled to save him but he died in hospital. Another man, 25, was stabbed as he rushed to Mr Zamans aid. He remains in hospital with injuries that are not thought to be life-threatening. A witness said: I saw him being chased by two teenagers. They stabbed him with what looked like a Rambo-style knife and he then came back to the shops. He fell on the floor and tried to get up but fell again. Mr Zamans brother, Kom, said the killing happened hours after his younger sibling had intervened in an argument on the Burdett Estate. He told the Standard: There were two groups of people who had an argument and my brother knew them both, so he met with them to mediate. He thought he resolved it, but we heard later they didnt like my brothers tone. Later on he went to get sweets with our five-year-old niece. When he got home, my sister said, you forgot the coriander, so he went back out to get some and two boys came and stabbed him. Mr Zaman was stabbed 200 yards from his home while buying the food as his family prepared to break fast during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. His death marks the 50th murder investigation launched in the capital so far this year and the 31st fatal stabbing in London in 2019. His brother added: Were angry because hes young and the fact that he died over something so petty. Mr Zaman worked as his mothers carer and aspired to help his brother Kom on his mattress business, Comfasleep. Then in the early hours of today, a man in his 30s died of knife wounds after a fight involving men and women in the street in Forest Gate. Officers called to Warwick Road at 1.15am found the injured man. He was taken to hospital but died later. They are appealing for witnesses. The 46-year-old victim of the attack in Battersea was set upon by youths on bicycles in a cowardly attack in a Tesco car park at about 4.30pm on Saturday. One witness said: Those boys ganged up on a man and hit him over the head with a hammer, just because he was trying to protect his scooter. He wouldnt let them take his bike, he put up a fight and I guess they didnt like that. A 16-year-old boy was arrested near the scene on suspicion of GBH and has been bailed until a date in early June. Police are also investigating a fire at a family home in Orpington in which a 45-year-old woman died and a man, 44, was left in a critical condition. Two children escaped the blaze at the house in Cray Avenue at 11.14pm last night. A world-renowned cancer specialist hailed as a pioneer by Prince William died of a rare complication from a yellow fever vaccination, an inquest has found. Professor Martin Gore CBE, below, died eight days after being inoculated at a clinic in Chelsea earlier this year, ahead of a week-long trip to Tanzania. The 67-year-old, who was medical director for 10 years at the Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea and a Trustee of the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, went to hospital when he felt lethargic and cold. He was rushed into intensive care after suffering multiple organ failure and died the following morning, St Pancras coroners court heard. Professor Gore, a father-of-four, was presented with a lifetime achievement award in 2015 by William, who hailed him as a source of inspiration and said: He is one of the pioneers of 20th-century cancer care. He went to a Boots clinic on January 2 and was recommended the yellow fever vaccination after telling the pharmacist he may travel to areas where mosquitoes breed. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is generally not required for people travelling to Tanzania, coroner Mary Hassell said. It might be recommended for a small sub-set of travellers who are at an increased risk because of prolonged travel or who may have extensive exposure to mosquitoes. Boots said in a statement it is updating its World Health Organisation-based vaccination advice software to change recommended to to be considered for travellers in the same category as Professor Gore. Dr Sanjay Bhagani, an infectious disease consultant, said contracting yellow fever as a result of a vaccination is very rare and there is currently no cure for the disease. In a small percentage of people, especially people with immune deficiencies, the virus can replicate ... As far as we were aware Professor Gore did not have any immune deficiency. Professor Gores son Alex said his father was a specialist in immunisation and would not have wanted his death to put people off vaccinations. A row has erupted between a group of London neighbours over who owns the flowers on a public pavement. Pictures of of handwritten notes plastered to trees on Dalyell Road in Brixton have gone viral, with the community dispute branded as the most middle-class argument ever on social media. The row broke out after one neighbour pinned a note on a tree asking members of the community not to pick their flowers from the bed below. But, a fellow resident soon left a response beneath in a plastic wallet saying: In an area massively affected by gentrification, its sad to see people claiming ownership of even the flowers." A pink post-it note was latter pinned to the tree, saying: Flowers on the public pavement are owned by all the community, not just the house they happen to fall in front off. Then yet another angered resident weighed in to say that the original note was intended to stop people stealing plants. On a yellow piece of paper, the unknown neighbour said: Are you serious? This is not about ownership or gentrification. This is about someone trying to make the street a nice place for EVERYONE." A final message was added to the yellow piece of paper in a different hand saying: Totally agree. This was done with love and a spirit of community for heavens sake. A bemused local later posted a picture of the notes on Twitter, racking up more than 16,000 likes and hundreds of comments. One commenter said: This is the most middle-class argument ever. Others branded it a very British civil war and peak British nonsense. One social media user even joked: "Please don't post messages on my telephone pole. Thank you." Writer Rachel Thompson, who shared the images, tweeted: People on my street are having an almighty row over who owns some flowers. There have been no raised voices, just handwritten notes placed inside plastic wallets and pinned to a post. It all began a few days ago when someone put up a note saying "please dont pick my flowers" next to a lupin. A few days later, I see a literal war of words has begun." T he organisers of an east London music festival apologised today after revellers were injured in a scary crush caused by a ticketing glitch. The company behind We Are FSTVL said five people were hurt on Saturday after unforeseen technical difficulties at the wristband exchange. Witnesses today told how revellers were seen collapsing as they waited for more than three hours to be let into the festival in Upminster. In a statement on social media, organisers Lime Green Events said: Whilst we managed to rectify the issue, we accept queuing times on Saturday were unacceptable. Videos posted online, left, appeared to show crowds dismantling barriers and rushing past staff to get inside. One woman, who asked not to be named, said she had travelled from Hertfordshire to attend the festival and paid 90 for a VIP wristband. P aul Mason, the influential Corbynite commentator, has become the latest victim of Labours increasingly vicious struggles over Brexit after he demanded the resignation of senior party figures, including Labour chair Ian Lavery. But it was also Masons explicit identification of key Corbyn aides Seumas Milne and Karie Murphy that led to a furious backlash, which has included a 2,200-word hatchet job published on pro-Corbyn blog The Skwawkbox. In an article headlined Union leaders, northern MP take imploding Mason to task for shame of attack on Lavery and LOTO staff, the blog said that though it and most supporters of Jeremy Corbyn regarded Paul Mason with huge respect, the relationship was now changed probably beyond repair". Mason, an author and former economics editor of Channel 4, had said yesterday of Labours disastrous performance in the European Elections, Seumas Milne, Karie Murphy and Ian Lavery MP oversaw this fiasco". Mason has made himself a big target, a Left-wing source told the Londoner this morning, claiming there are four Ms around Corbyn: [Seumas] Milne, [Andrew] Murray, [Karie] Murphy and [Len] McCluskey. The source added that Masons demand was brave because it means that these four people can now direct all kinds of stuff at him. Pointing to the Skwawkbox article, Mason said on Twitter, When someone writes a hatchet job, always ask cui bono, and openly asked: Who ordered this? In reply, Skwawkbox said: Nobody ordered these hit-pieces, nor even requested that this article be written. Though Mason is still backing Corbyn, his identification of those around the Labour leader struck a chord with a despairing Left-winger, who told The Londoner: What Mason is trying to do is fight for the soul of the Corbyn project in order to save it There are a lot more people on Masons side than are saying so because it makes you a target. No 10 comms chief makes Tories swoon Robbie Gibb, No 10s director of communications, has a new strategy. Gibb recently went to CCHQ to advise the digital team about which MPs to select for videos, and explained the team should be using more telegenic stars. Suggestions included Gillian Keegan, MP for Chichester, and Helen Whately, MP for Faversham and Mid Kent. During Gibbs address an attendee fainted, bringing the meeting to a close, much to the delight of everyone. Though Gibb told The Londoner this morning that the fainting was unrelated to his speech. --- Sky News Beth Rigby says its important to stand out. You try to have something that makes you distinguishable, she tells this months RTS magazine. Nick Robinson had his glasses and Andy Marr has his ears and Laura Kuenssberg has her really bright, sharp coats and I, apparently, have my red lipstick. It gives you a signifier. --- Writer Russell T Davies is enjoying the reaction to his BBC dystopian drama Years and Years. I loved to see the early reviews saying its terrifying, he says in an interview. Im a very political writer. Every single year in Doctor Who, I killed or deposed a prime minister. In series one I blew up Downing Street with a missile. Stars head for Hackney and a proper East End party in the park Dave Benett/Getty Images The sun shone (occasionally) on the All Points East festival, which returned to Victoria Park this bank holiday weekend for three days of music. The gilded line-up included The Chemical Brothers, The Strokes, James Blake, and Christine and the Queens, and they pulled in star power to match. Actor Ellie Bamber donned her DMs to hang out in the Ray-Ban Studio at the festival on Saturday afternoon, alongside actor Jamie Dornan, who was spotted with pals enjoying The Strokes set on Saturday evening. Others stars partying in the park included actor Alfie Allen, DJs Ashley James and Charlotte de Carle, and the TV presenter Lilah Parsons. Presenter Kelly Osbourne attended the final day with her model boyfriend Jimmy Q. They were also spotted together last week at the Chelsea Flower Show. SW1A Michael Gove tells Nick Robinsons Political Thinking podcast a good leader must be principled. Sometimes you have to be determined and tough and say Look, I think this is the right thing to do. Ive thought about it. Its not an arbitrary or whimsical stance Im taking. I think that this is right. He added: If you can move the debate away from personality so much the better. A swipe at any particular rival? --- Dominic Raabs Brexit pitch hasnt gone down well with hardliners. There is still time to negotiate a legally binding exchange of letters to give the UK a clear exit from the so-called backstop of EU laws, over which we have no say, Raab said yesterday. Is that it? tweeted ERG chief Steve Baker. --- Andrew Bowie MP, the Prime Ministers PPS, tells us hes using his free time to match David Bowie songs to Brexiteers. Steve Baker is Rebel Rebel and Esther McVey is Suffragette City.He adds that the Tory anthem is Under Pressure. Proud members commemorate Mark Ayesha Shand says she keeps the originals of her fathers phallus collection in my sitting room and admits some guests are a bit surprised to see the sculptures. Her father Mark Shand, the Duchess of Cornwalls late brother, collected the curios on his travels. Since his death in 2014, Ayesha has auctioned copies of them for his charity Elephant Family. Speaking at its latest fundraiser, Shand said, I am paying tribute to my fathers collection. She added: You can find weirder things in peoples homes. Quote of the day 'So I hear you're looking for a new Prime Minister...' Rabbis Daughters Visit Destroyed Village Stand for Israel | May 28, 2019 Last week, we told you about the fires that were wreaking havoc across the Holy Land, including one that destroyed an entire village. Now, Arutz Sheva tells us about Yael Ecksteins visit to Moshav Mevo Modiin, along with the daughter of the rabbi who founded the village a village that was destroyed, but will be rebuilt: The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (Keren LYedidut) has quickly mobilized to raise more than NIS 1 million in emergency assistance for residents of Mevo Modiim, a small moshav (agricultural community) located west of Jerusalem and near the Israeli city of Modiin. The moshav sustained a massive fire last Thursday that destroyed at least 40 out of the communitys 50 homes. From the NIS 1 million, the Fellowship will be providing up to $5,000 in assistance for each family of Mevo Modiim. The amount distributed in each case will be determined and prioritized according to a number of factors and criteria provided to The Fellowship by relevant authorities. At the same time, The Fellowship is in constant communication with the National Emergency Authority, Israel Fire and Rescue Services as well as the Hatzalah emergency response organization to ensure that assistance gets provided as quickly as possible Every Sabbath eve, the men of the moshav would come to our house, Rabbi Carlebachs daugher, Dari said standing in her fathers old home with The Fellowships president, Yael Eckstein by her side. My father had a special perfume, which everyone said was special, that he would spray each one of them with for the Sabbath. On Sabbath morning, the guys would be in the kitchen eating and drinking coffee, sharing words of Torah. Even at three in the morning, people would stop by the home to consult and speak with my father. Unsurprisingly, the moshavs residents followed in Rabbi Carlebachs footsteps. Theres no one like the people of Mevo Modiim, Dari continued. They do not have a lot of money but their houses are open for guests all the time. Now they need a lot of help. Many are left with nothing but the clothes on their bodies. Their money has been burnt along with all their property. Nevertheless, Dari remains determined that Mevo Modiim will overcome the destruction: My father said that fire can destroy and kill but ones internal fire cannot be extinguished. I know that the internal fire has not been burned and that this moshav will once again thrive because the nation of Israel is very strong. It is impossible to burn the heart that dwells inside the collective soul of the moshav. The Fellowships President Yael Eckstein conveyed The Fellowships determination to help Mevo Modiim rebuild. For the past 13 years, The Fellowship has been a central hub for assisting citizens in times of emergency. We are continuing to assume that role in this regard by providing the residents of Mevo Modiim with over NIS 1 million that we have raised already. In fact, the Jewish community immediately turned to The Fellowship to provide the emergency aid in light of our track record in responding to every other emergency in Israel including our prior donation of 8 firetrucks and basic needs to victims in previous fires. Eckstein added: We would of course also be remiss not to thank our Christian friends and lovers of Israel from around the world who provided matching funds. During times like this one can see who is there to respond immediately, not only from the Jewish community but from millions of Christians around the world F resh Labour splits emerged today over the partys pivot towards a second Brexit referendum in the wake of its disastrous European election performance. Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott today became the latest senior Labour figure to publicly back another vote, saying they were now foregrounding it as a policy. But Labour MPs in Leave voting areas immediately warned that a shift from leading party figures risks haemorrhaging working class voters. We want to be clear now. We are foregrounding what was always Labour Party policy a peoples vote, Ms Abbott told the Radio 4 Today programme. Our position is that ideally we want a General Election, if we cant get a General Election in time we would support a Peoples Vote. EU Elections final result: Brexit Party win 29 seats in record haul She said the party is now moving towards a clearer line after significant criticism that they lost half their European Parliament seats because of their lack of clarity on Brexit. Any potential ballot paper on another vote should have Remain as an option, which she would personally back, she told the BBC. Mr Corbyn said on Monday that any Brexit deal must be put to a public vote after sustained criticism that the partys attempt to appeal to both remain and leave backing members had failed. Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry said Labour should call for a second referendum and Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell said going back to the people was now the only option. European elections 2019 1 /16 European elections 2019 Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage as the results came in last night REUTERS Brexit Party candidate Anne Widdecombe rejoices as her party secures seats in the South West region PA 'Now the general election':Brexit Party Nigel Farage is pictured after gains in the Euro vote REUTERS Mr Farage said his party had surged 'like a jack-in-the-box' REUTERS Farage reacts as the European Parliament election results for the UK South East Region are announced at the Civic Centre Southampton AFP/Getty Images Brexit Party's Jonathan Bullock, Annunziata Rees-Mogg and Matthew Patten celebrate after being elected PA The Brexit Party's three winning candidates in the West Midlands region - Rupert Lowe, Martin Daubney and Andrew Kerr PA Brexit Party's Tracy Knowles, Anna Bailey, Jonathan Bullock, Annunziata Rees-Mogg and Matthew Patten celebrate PA Leader of Spanish People's Party (PP), conservative Pablo Casado (C), celebrates the election results AFP/Getty Images Danish Prime Minister Lars Loekke Rasmussen and his wife Sulrun attend during the European Parliament elections 2019 election party AP Swedish Green Party (Miljoepartiet) candidate Alice Bah Kuhnke (C) and Per Bolund (R), Minister for Financial Markets and Housing, applaud at the party's election night REUTERS Italian Deputy Prime Minister and leader of far-right League party Matteo Salvini kisses a crucifix as he speaks during his European Parliament election night REUTERS However Lisa Nandy, MP for Wigan, which voted 63.9 percent to leave the EU, told the BBC: There is huge frustration amongst Labour voters who voted leave in towns like mine to see leading figures from the Labour Party out calling for a second referendum before theres been any serious attempt to implement the result of the first. Loading.... This could be the final breach of trust with this working class electorate. The influential backbencher added: The chances of a Labour Government without winning the trust of people in these towns is absolutely zero. She warned that a second referendum would lead to a no-deal outcome. Very few people have changed their minds and if there is a shift in this area of the country I think its towards no-deal Brexit, she said. MP for Ashfield in Nottinghamshire, Gloria De Piero, backed Ms Nandy over Twitter saying the feeling among her constituents against a second referendum was the same. E U President Jean-Claude Juncker has ruled out renegotiating Theresa May's Brexit deal. The announcement comes as a major blow to several Conservative leadership candidates, who have insisted on re-opening talks with Brussels if elected. Arriving at a summit in Brussels on Tuesday, Mr Juncker told reporters: "I was crystal clear. There will be no renegotiation." It comes as Theresa May lands in Brussels for her last EU summit as prime minister following the disastrous results for the Conservative Party in the European elections. Theresa May arrives at EU summit in Brussels On the doorstep of the same meeting Theresa May also warned her potential successors against leaving the EU without a deal. She said she was not going to comment on the views of individual candidates, but added: I continue to have the view that its best for the UK to leave with a deal. The EU said there would be no renegotiation of the Brexit deal with any new Prime Minister / AFP/Getty Images Tory leadership hopefuls, including Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, International Development Secretary Rory Stewart and Justice Secretary David Gauke earlier slammed hard line approaches by Boris Johnson, Dominic Raab, Andrea Leadsom and Esther McVey for the UK to leave on October 31, with or without a deal. But Mr Juncker's comment could mean that the three Cabinet ministers will be unsuccessful in their bid to re-open talks after the row erupted between leadership candidates on Tuesday. Rory Stewart attacked no-deal Brexiteers for "Wizard of Oz" thinking / PA In an interview with the Evening Standard, Mr Stewart attacked no-deal Brexiteers for Wizard of Oz thinking and vowed to vote against such a move without hesitation. He also warned on no deal: You would end up with Jeremy Corbyn. Mr Hunt stressed that pursuing no deal risked triggering a general election because it would be torpedoed in Parliament, and that the resulting verdict from voters would be absolutely catastrophic for the Tories. Mr Hunt branded a policy of seeking to catapult the UK out of the European Union without a deal as political suicide and called for a statesmanlike and robust approach to trying to renegotiate the withdrawal agreement, even though Brussels has ruled this out. He proposed a different negotiating team to also include the Democratic Unionist Party, the hardline Tory European Research Group, and voices from Scotland and Wales, so EU leaders would know that any agreement could win the backing of Parliament. Mr Gauke also backed Mr Hunt and warned no deal was likely to be defeated again in a Commons vote. We have to be responsible. We have to understand the impact on the economy, he said. We have to understand the parliamentary arithmetic. Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage also slammed the Conservative Party to say it is "extremely unlikely" that a future Tory leader would take the UK out of the EU by the end of October. Mr Farage said at a press conference on Monday afternoon: "The Conservative Party are bitterly divided. "I consider it to be extremely unlikely that they will pick a leader who is able to take us out on October 31 come what may. Theresa May arrives at an EU summit in Brussels / AFP/Getty Images "We might overnight have made their lives a bit easier but I don't see them being able to deliver," he continued. "I think the real barrier, the real obstruction to all of this is a two-party system that may well have worked in decades gone by but is no longer fit for purpose." The newly elected 73 MEPs are heading to Brussels, along with the outgoing prime minister, where they will begin negotiating to form political groups. A former Labour home secretary has admitted he also voted for the Liberal Democrats, and called on the party to reinstate the membership of Alastair Campbell. Charles Clarke, a senior figure in the New Labour government, said he took a "one-off decision" and also voted for the Liberal Democrats in the recent European Parliament elections. Mr Campbell, Tony Blair's former spin doctor, was expelled from Labour on Tuesday after he said he voted for the other party. In a statement, the former home secretary said Labour "should immediately withdraw its expulsion of Alastair". Alastair Campbell was expelled from the Labour Party. / PA He added: "I was not aware that Alastair had voted Liberal Democrat in the European election until I heard him say so on television on Sunday evening. "His expulsion from Labour Party membership is a disgrace and only compounds Labour's current political difficulties. "I also voted Liberal Democrat. This was a one-off decision because of the hopeless incoherence of Labour's position, particularly that of Jeremy Corbyn, on Brexit. "I have been a Labour Party member for 47 years and have never before voted anything but Labour. I was chair of the Labour Party in 2001-02. "I have consistently argued against those who, often in understandable despair at the Labour leadership's abandonment of Labour's fundamental values, have either resigned from the Labour Party or joined another party." Alastair Campbell speaks to the media outside his home in north London after he was expelled from the Labour Party. / PA Mr Clarke said he would vote for "Labour's excellent MP for Cambridge" in the next general election. Speaking earlier outside his north London home on Tuesday, Mr Campbell, told reporters he will appeal against Labour's decision to expel him. "I think that there are people in Jeremy Corbyn's office, senior positions in Jeremy Corbyn's office, who have recommended voting against the Labour Party," he said. "You can interpret the rules in all sorts of different ways, but one thing I know is I'm not going to leave the party just because some random email comes in telling me that I've been expelled. "So I will definitely appeal against it and we will see where that goes." He described his rapid expulsion as "strange" and added: "I think people will inevitably draw the contrast with the lack of rapidity in dealing with cases involving anti-Semitism." T he Tory leadership race escalated into open warfare over no deal today as three Cabinet ministers hit out at Brexiteers ready to crash Britain out of the EU within months. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, International Development Secretary Rory Stewart and Justice Secretary David Gauke tore into the hardline approach being pursued by Boris Johnson, Dominic Raab, Andrea Leadsom and Esther McVey for the UK to leave on October 31, with or without a deal. In an interview with the Evening Standard, Tory leadership hopeful Mr Stewart attacked no-deal Brexiteers for Wizard of Oz thinking and vowed to vote against such a move without hesitation. He also warned on no deal: You would end up with Jeremy Corbyn. Mr Hunt stressed that pursuing no deal risked triggering a general election because it would be torpedoed in Parliament, and that the resulting verdict from voters would be absolutely catastrophic for the Tories. Mr Hunt branded a policy of seeking to catapult the UK out of the European Union without a deal as political suicide and called for a statesmanlike and robust approach to trying to renegotiate the withdrawal agreement, even though Brussels has ruled this out. Leadership hopeful Rory Stewart attacked no-deal Brexiteers for Wizard of Oz thinking / Rex Features He proposed a different negotiating team to also include the Democratic Unionist Party, the hardline Tory European Research Group, and voices from Scotland and Wales, so EU leaders would know that any agreement could win the backing of Parliament. Kit Malthouse and Boris Johnson are both in the race to be the person to succeed Theresa May / PA However, he was immediately attacked by another Tory leadership hopeful, Ms McVey, who tweeted: Political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU and not leaving on October 31. TODO: define component type apester In a sign of growing animosity in the leadership race, a source from a rival camp added: Hunt has had more positions on Brexit than Corbyn. One day hes for no deal, the next hes surrendering to Brussels. Its clear he will continue to plug Theresa Mays failed deal. However, Mr Gauke backed Mr Hunt and warned no deal was likely to be defeated again in a Commons vote. We have to be responsible. We have to understand the impact on the economy, he said. We have to understand the parliamentary arithmetic. Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt issued a warning over announcing a general election / AFP/Getty Images The next Tory leader, who will also be prime minister, will inherit a working majority of just six, meaning it would take only a few rebels to block no deal getting through Parliament. The new leader could ignore MPs and press ahead with no deal as the legal default position, a move that would spark a constitutional showdown. However, some Tory MPs are threatening to vote against the Government in a confidence motion if Parliament was sidelined. Former attorney general Dominic Grieve said: I would see it as my duty to do everything I could to prevent a no-deal Brexit, which I believe would be uniquely damaging to the country. Just days ago, Chancellor Philip Hammond suggested the next Prime Minister would not survive long if he or she ignored Parliament and adopted a policy of no deal. He refused to say whether he would support the Government in a confidence motion. J ohn Bercow has warned Tory leadership candidates that parliament can still block a no-deal Brexit. Speaking in the US on Tuesday, the Commons Speaker speaker fired a warning shot at those in the leadership race threatening to crash out of the EU without a deal. Contenders like Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab have insisted the UK will leave on 31 October deal or no deal. Mr Bercow said: The idea the House won't have its say is for the birds," adding: The idea that parliament is going to be evacuated from the centre stage of debate on Brexit is unimaginable. The idea the House won't have its say is for the birds, says Mr Bercow / UK Parliament Agreeing that leaving without a deal was the default position, he said: There is a difference between a legal default position and what the interplay of different political forces in parliament will facilitate. Mr Bercow went on to point out the last legal default was meant to be 29 March, then April and now October. "There is much debate to be had and policy to be determined and conclusion to be reached." He also added that the next parliament were not bound by the last parliament's invoking of Article 50. He said: "They cant be wished away or sniffed at, but these matters were matters decided by the last parliament. No parliament can bind the hands of its successor. "This parliament can do as this parliament thinks fit." "There is a view that says the referendum supersedes anything else. Parliament legislated," he continued. "There is a view that says thats it, we didnt talk about best of three or best of five. "The only duty of a member of parliament is for he or she to do what they think is right." It comes as EU president Jean-Claude Juncker told reporters that there will be no renegotiation on a Brexit deal. Arriving at a summit in Brussels on Tuesday, Mr Juncker said: "I was crystal clear. There will be no renegotiation." J ohn Bercow has vowed he will remain as Speaker of the House of Commons while there are great issues such as Brexit to be resolved. The Speaker was expected to stand down in June or July but has now said it would not be sensible to vacate the chair within that timeframe. The move could anger hardline Brexiteers who have in the past accused him of Brexit bias. Speaking in Washington on Tuesday, he told The Guardian: I do feel that now is a time in which momentous events are taking place and there are great issues to be resolved and in those circumstances, it doesnt seem to me sensible to vacate the chair. John Bercow, Speaker of the House of Commons, has suggested he does not plan to step down in the summer / Getty Images He added that if he had intention to announce his departure he would first speak of it in Parliament. Addressing reports he was to stand down, the Speaker said: "Ive never said anything about going in July of this year. Mr Bercows comments came after he warned Tory leadership candidates that a no-deal Brexit could still be blocked in the Commons. John Bercow discusses the Speaker's 'Order' command Contenders like Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab have insisted the UK will leave on 31 October deal or no deal. Mr Bercow said: The idea the House won't have its say is for the birds," adding: The idea that parliament is going to be evacuated from the centre stage of debate on Brexit is unimaginable. Agreeing that leaving without a deal was the default position, he said: There is a difference between a legal default position and what the interplay of different political forces in parliament will facilitate. The Speaker, who was elected in 2009 and is approaching 10 years in the post, has in recent months faced criticism from pro-Brexit MPs. Hardliners had raised fears he wanted to stop a no-deal exit from the bloc. In January he was accused of ignoring the advice of his officials about parliamentary procedure and blocking a vote on the withdrawal deal. R ory Stewart has just arrived at KFC in Barking. Its day four of campaigning proper, as he puts it, for the Tory leadership. The International Development Secretary has chosen Barking because it is a no-deal Brexit enclave and he wants to talk to Leave voters. Margaret Thatcher did this, he says, hammering on doors with Labour stickers in the window to convince them their economic analysis was wrong. Stewart believes this shows sincerity. What I will find in Barking is people wholl disagree with me strongly. If my campaign is about being unifying and inclusive I have to have the confidence to go out and talk to them. His argument is for a managed deal. He describes himself as radical centre. Later he posts a film of himself doing a selfie piece-to-mobile-phone-camera while walking down the street, and another speaking Dari to a constituent (Stewart lived on-and-off in Afghanistan for three years from 2005). The response is hes indeed barking but charming. Earlier in the day he met Remainers in Borough. Among them, a woman whod seen his documentary on Afghanistan and a man whod heard one of his podcasts. Another guy clearly had no idea who I was. Another told him Youre the only Tory Id vote for. Unfortunately, sighs Stewart, he was a Lib Dem. Man of action: Rory Stewart / Alex Lentati Stewart is certainly the outsider hes polling last in the race but its instructive that he has hired Lizzie Loudon, a press secretary with experience of Number 10 under Theresa May, and is happy to admit he has the vanity and ego befitting a contender. He believes his time as a diplomat and adventurer (whose account of a month-long walk through Afghanistan The Places In Between became a bestseller) was the perfect apprenticeship for the job. Hes an unusual character, 5ft 9in, wire-thin in his tailored suit and knitted green tie. Even with a new hair cut, his style is artfully dishevelled. He wears thistle cufflinks, a nod to his Scottish roots, and a gold signet ring, and he looks like a cross between Mick Jagger, Eddie Redmayne and the puppet from Interpols Evil video. Rory Stewart is currently polling last in the race to be Tory leader / PA What kind of Tory is Stewart? On the one hand he is the Eton-Balliol kind, like Boris Johnson. On the other, hed never voted Tory before 2001 and only then, to his chagrin, because his father and mother a former deputy head of MI6 and a true blue Tory, Brexiteer and cornerstone of the Perth and Kinross Conservative Association cast his proxy vote while he was away in India. Between the ages of 18 and 21, he was a fully-paid up member of the Labour Party while helping Princes William and Harry with their Maths and English. Royal tutor and Labour member? Yes, he laughs. Thats the kind of Tory I am. In todays political landscape, your position on the EU is as important as party colours. Stewart wants both no-deal and a second referendum off the table. His proposed method of finding compromise in the middle ground is, painful though this sounds, locking the MPs up and bashing a deal through. He would do this with a Macron-style Citizens Assembly with the Archbishop of Canterbury in the role of mediator. He means to include literally everyone in talks, citing ERG hardliner Mark Francois, Unite boss Len McCluskey and, if necessary, Nigel Farage . The important thing is to lift our heads up from the day-to-day Brexit squabble to what the long-term objective is here, he says. Hes already collared McCluskey in the street after they appeared on a BBC politics show together. Today, he appears to make the decision to talk to Farage mid-sentence after relating that they had dinner six weeks ago at the Oxford Union. I am going to get my office to reach out straight to him, he says. I am the last person he will expect to hear from and that is a powerful position to come from. "I believe in a Britain that is understated I dont believe tough guys are people who say that they are tough" Stewart may have the same pedigree as Johnson in terms of schooling but in this contest hes the anti-Boris candidate. When we first meet (over tea in Portcullis House last Thursday) he says he would consider serving in a Johnson Cabinet for the good of the country. At some point over the weekend he rules this out. Asked if Johnson is across the detail of his brief, Stewart (who worked with Johnson at the Foreign Office) doesnt say yes, he says he wont be drawn into insulting my opponents. But he swings from high-chivalry to waspish, saying, when asked if as leader he would rein in Johnsons inflammatory commentary, such as comparing women in burqas to letterboxes, I dont think theres any leader who would be foolish enough to think they could control a poet of the legendary quality of Boris Johnson. Many have tried. I dont think hes a racist. I think hes an incredibly talented, very engaging journalist. If this is supposed to be damning, its a shame he is talking to journalists. He describes the point of Boris as not dissimilar to that of Jeremy Clarkson. Later, when drawing on his heroes, he says the thing that is greatest about Winston Churchill was his eye for detail: Because real leadership is not broad-brush poetical nonsense, he says. In policy terms, Stewart is much closer to Michael Gove. Both are radical, both embrace tech, both are extreme green Stewarts stated first policy would be to plant 120 million native trees in four months. He wants to issue green bonds and have the Government buy land and build houses, not nudging property developers. He cites Edinburghs new town and says he wants people in 200 years time to look back at the work of his government and say My goodness, what an incredible civilisation. But he is not convincing when asked, as a slightly Victorian character, how he will appeal to young people. Because I care, he says. Because Im sincere. And although claiming that it is completely vital to attract more BAME members and voters he is flummoxed by the question of Islamophobia in the Tories. I may be missing it, he admits. His is an unusual turn of phrase I am going to green DFID, he says at one point. Things are often a miracle. The British car industry is a miracle, as are our security services, London too. Hes at once terribly posh (issues is pronounced iz-use) with the odd Americanism like gotta (Stewarts wife Shoshana Clark is from New York) with a manner that at times appears superior. When telling the story of how he met his wife in Afghanistan, he relates it through her eyes. I was standing on the top of the turret of the mud castle about 25ft in the air in a suit trying to discourse with an Afghan engineer. She saw this strange person and a white dog. His speaking rhythm sometimes beats to iambic pentameter, perhaps because he likes to commit verse to heart. He learnt Eliots The Wasteland aged 14, and the Four Quartets while walking from India to Nepal in 2001, which he later recited through a megaphone in Penrith on the day he was elected in 2010. Always simmering under the surface is the desire to talk about his experiences in Afghanistan and Iraq. The thing Ive learnt negotiating, whether with warring factions in Iraq or with mini-wars in Afghanistan, he tells us, is that you have to be nimble. This is not a game of red lines or rigidity, you gotta keep trying and be imaginative, and you have to reach out. He says there are similarities with post-war Iraq and post-Brexit voting Britain. The most fundamental similarity is that there is a completely surreal gap between the way that the Government talks about this and what is actually going on on the ground. Actually, his discomfort with arms sales to Saudi Arabia (if we talk about democracy and human rights, we need to follow through on that) mean that he has revolutionary ideas on foreign policy too. If I were lucky enough to be Prime Minister, I would actually rebalance our foreign policy away from the Middle East towards Asia and Africa. He is keen to be honest. Then again, hes occasionally nettled. On the subject of Eton, he says: When you are choosing a leader, youre also choosing someone who spent 550 nights sleeping on the floor of village houses across Afghanistan, Nepal and India seeing things that many other people who went to Eton havent seen in their lives. What about rumours that he was like his father in the secret intelligence service? He emits a ha, then allows a pause. Well, so I mean no. He didnt know what his father did as a child but he adored him. The last time he cried properly was when his father died in his arms in 2015. I was trying to resuscitate him. It was a strange moment for me because in very quick succession within nine months Id had to deliver my first son with 999 on my telephone in my ear and I was trying to do artificial resuscitation with 999 in my ear. He now has two boys, four and two. Yes, he changes nappies. Asked if he has a fields of wheat moment of naughtiness, he says: All these things are relative. To illustrate he tells how he once sat with a KGB officer over a drink. He puts on a Russian accent. Rory he said at about 3am, I have broken every one of the Ten Commandments and he started crying. And I said, My God, every one? And he said, Yes, every one. Even I have not respected my father and mother. So thats the naughtiness that I am used to. Is he tough enough to be PM? A toothy grin spreads across his face. The reason I have been proud to be in Iraq, in Afghanistan, serving my country is because I believe in a Britain that is understated in its answers to those kind of questions. I dont believe tough guys are people who say they are tough. R ory Stewart has attacked no-deal Brexiteers for Wizard of Oz thinking and revealed he has reached out to trade union firebrand Len McCluskey and moderate Labour MPs. In an exclusive interview with the Evening Standard, the International Development Secretary joined Chancellor Philip Hammond in saying he would vote against a no-deal Brexit in the Commons if a Tory leadership rival such as Boris Johnson or Dominic Raab tried to push it through. He said it was unpatriotic to choose a no-deal departure from the European Union, claiming it would turn Britain into a zombie state. Calling for a new consensus, he unveiled plans to call citizens assemblies to inject fresh thinking, and said he would ask the Archbishop of Canterbury to mediate in cross-party talks in Parliament. Mr Stewart met Unite general secretary Mr McCluskey after they saw each other at a BBC studio on Sunday. We sat down and chatted in the street, he said. What struck me is that my belief that we are about a quarter of an inch apart on a lot of these issues resonated with him. Rory Stewart is currently polling last in the race to be Tory leader / PA His members are desperate to avoid no deal. He desperately cares about maintaining Britains edge in the automobile industry, aviation and advanced manufacturing. Im following up in the next few days with him. Saying he would talk to anyone if it would avoid no deal even, if necessary, Nigel Farage Mr Stewart revealed he is also in contact with Labour MPs Stella Creasy, who has championed citizens assemblies, and Lisa Nandy, who pressed Theresa May to adopt dynamic alignment with the EU on workers rights. In a contrast with Mrs Mays red lines on Brexit, he said: The whole point about this is: no red lines, talk to everyone. Mr Stewart revealed that Mr Johnson called him in last month to protest that he was being wrongly accused of backing a no-deal Brexit. He said, I hear you have been criticising me. I cant understand why you are saying that I want a no deal. I dont want a no-deal Brexit. I left the room thinking, OK, he doesnt want no deal. Later, however, Mr Stewart concluded that the small print of Mr Johnsons policy was to have no deal by default, because his demand for a new withdrawal agreement by October 31 was impossible to achieve. If you read the small print, I think what he is saying is he is going to get a different deal by October, and if he doesnt get a different deal by October, he will leave with no deal, Mr Stewart said. We know perfectly well there is no way on earth that Brussels is going to give him a deal by October Essentially its a recipe for going for no deal. Asked if he thought Mr Johnson was untrustworthy, he replied: I dont believe in impugning the moral character of other people. Explaining why he would not serve in a Johnson government, he said he could not obey collective ministerial responsibility to pursue no deal. If I was lucky enough to be foreign secretary, how could I advocate something I dont believe in? Mr Stewart attacked Brexiteers who think a no-deal exit would be acceptable, accusing former Brexit secretary Mr Raab of having somehow convinced himself this is a minor bump in the road when the reality was that no deal would destroy 300 years of reputation overnight. Going on the attack, he said: I think there is a sense in which the no-deal Brexit policy is a Wizard of Oz policy. In other words, a no-deal Brexit policy pretends that it is some grand and decisive thing. But when you pull the curtain back you discover it is just a recipe for more uncertainty and delay. You would leave but you would still have to get a future trade deal with Europe. You would be spending three or four years longer stuck trying to get a future deal. No deal sounds like a thing. It is not it is an absence, it is a zombie state. It is worse you are actually pulling back the curtain and looking at purgatory. Asked if he would vote to halt a no-deal exit, Mr Stewart said: Yes. Without hesitation. He dismissed the idea that he could bring down a Tory government, saying that was a separate question from a Brexit vote. On citizens assemblies, where ordinary people are chosen to deliberate compromises, Mr Stewart said going back to the people was necessary because Parliament has failed and he believed it was more likely to find a solution than either a second referendum or a general election. T ory leadership hopeful Matt Hancock says it is mission critical to deliver Brexit before a general election takes place after the party's humiliating performance at the European elections. The Health Secretary, who has announced his candidacy to replace Theresa May, said the Conservatives must "hold their nerve" and "get on" with leaving the EU in a bid to win back voters lost to both the Liberal Democrats and the Brexit Party. Mr Hancock warned that Tory voters who supported Remain and younger voters are being "hoovered up by the Lib Dems". He wrote in the Daily Mail: We've lost many long-standing voters to the Brexit Party not because of any details of the deal we proposed but simply because we haven't delivered Brexit yet. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said a no-deal Brexit would be "political suicide" / EPA It's not that most people want a No Deal Brexit, but because so many rightly think we should have left by now and want us to get on with it. So it is mission critical we deliver Brexit before any general election. Looking at these dire European election results we must hold our nerve, focus on what really matters to people and get to where we win elections - with a broad appeal based on rising pay in a growing economy. That way we can win once again. Mr Hancocks comments came as rival leadership candidate Jeremy Hunt warned that the Tories would be committing political suicide by pushing through a no-deal Brexit. Writing in the Daily Telegraph, the foreign secretary said any Prime Minister who tried to leave the EU without a deal would trigger a general election which risked the extinction of the Conservative Party. TODO: define component type apester Mr Hunt said: "The results contain a simple message which we ignore at our peril: if we attempt a general election before we have delivered Brexit we will be annihilated. "Attacked by the Brexit Party on the Right and the Liberal Democrats on the Left, we will face extinction. Any candidate for prime minister whose strategy leads inexorably to a general election is offering a prospectus for disaster. "Trying to deliver no deal through a general election is not a solution. It is political suicide, that would delight Nigel Farage and probably put Jeremy Corbyn in No 10 by Christmas." But rival Esther McVey said on Twitter: Political suicide actually lies in not having a clean break from the EU and not leaving on the 31st October. Ten Conservatives have now thrown their hat into the ring to replace Mrs May when she stands down on June 7. Runners and riders in race for Tory leadership 1 /20 Runners and riders in race for Tory leadership Boris Johnson AFP/Getty Images Dominic Raab AP Esther McVey Getty Images Sajid Javid Getty Images Andrea Leadsom EPA Michael Gove Getty Images Liz Truss PA Matt Hancock EPA Penny Mordaunt REUTERS Rory Stewart PA Jeremy Hunt Rex Features Gavin Williamson Getty Images David Lidington AP Rory Stewart AFP/Getty Images Graham Brady PA Housing minister Kit Malthouse became the latest candidate to add his name to the growing list on Monday. Environment Secretary Michael Gove, International Development Secretary Rory Stewart, Home Secretary Sajid Javid and former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson have said they will run for party leader. L eadership candidates for the Conservative Party will take part in a TV debate hosted by the BBC, the corporation have announced. Tory hopefuls will face a TV debate moderated by Newsnights Emily Maitlis as well as one-on-one interviews as part of the BBCs scheduled news coverage next month. The broadcaster announced that the final two candidates will appear on a special edition of Question Time, hosted by Fiona Bruce, where they will be invited to put their case to an audience. The final two will then also face a one-on-one interview with Andrew Neil in a separate broadcast on BBC One to take place within the voting period for Tory party members. Candidates include Dominic Raab and Esther McVey / AFP/Getty Images It follows Prime Minister Theresa May announcing on Friday that she would step down as the Tory leader on 7 June. Fran Unsworth, director BBC News and Current Affairs, said: The decision being made by Conservative Party members will profoundly affect us all. "So it feels right that BBC audiences get a chance to see the candidates debate with each other, and that we scrutinise the various policy proposals they will be standing on. Our plans include bringing the final two candidates in front of the same Question Time audience on the same night to be quizzed by the public, as although the final say will fall to Conservative party members, its firmly in the public interest for audiences to question and hear from the next potential Prime Minister. Under the timetable set out by Conservative Party chairman Brandon Lewis and the 1922 vice-chairmen, nominations for leader will close in the week beginning June 10. The party hopes to have elected a new leader by the start of Parliament's summer recess. Sky News will also host a live head-to-head debate as part of the Conservative leadership election. The two final candidates will take part in a live debate with a studio audience made up of Conservative voters presented by journalist Kay Burley. John Ryley, head of Sky News said: "We've consistently pushed the agenda for leaders' debates for over a decade, this will be another key milestone in the unprecedented political turmoil we've been able to witness." Several Conservative MPs have put themselves in the leadership race, including Esther McVey, Health Secretary Matt Hancock, Andrea Leadsom, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Home Secretary Sajid Javid. H ousing Minister Kit Malthouse has become the latest person to throw his hat into the ring for the Tory leadership. The MP for North West Hampshire, widely credited as the convener of both Conservative Leavers and Remainers to develop a compromise on Mrs May's withdrawal agreement, said there was a "yearning for change". He launched his bid with an article in The Sun, adding that it was time for a new generation to lead the charge into our future. The 52-year-old is a former deputy mayor of London and entered the Commons in 2015 as David Cameron's Conservatives won a majority. Mr Malthouse made the announcement on Monday (NIGEL HOWARD) His name was given to the so-called Malthouse Compromise - a proposal drawn up by backbenchers from Leave and Remain wings of the Tory Party, which would have implemented Mrs May's Brexit deal with the backstop replaced by alternative arrangements. He wrote: "This leadership campaign cannot be about the same old faces, scarred by wars that have split the Tory party over three years. "We need to end the Brexit paralysis, and while I voted to leave the EU, I know that without unity across the UK, we cannot get a deal over the line. "It's time for a new generation to lead the charge into our future with boldness and vision." Mr Malthouse is the 10th Conservative Party member to put himself forward for the top job, after Jeremy Hunt, Sajid Javid and Michael Gove all announced they would run. As the race to succeed Mrs May enters its first full week, each candidate has started offering a flavour for what their policies would be. Michael Gove is prepared to offer free UK citizenship to three million nationals who resided in the UK at the time of the June 2016 referendum, while Matt Hancock wrote in the Daily Mail about "driving up the Living Wage and cutting taxes". The Health Secretary wrote: "Instead of yet another battle over Brexit, the next election should be about the economy - the territory on which the Conservative Party wins. "It should be a clear choice between higher pay with the Tories or higher taxes with Corbyn's Labour." Michael Gove leaves No 10 Downing Street / AFP/Getty Images Mid Sussex MP Rory Stewart's campaign was endorsed by Sir Nicholas Soames, grandson of former Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill. The 36-year veteran of the Commons wrote in the Daily Mail there was only one person who had put their name forward "who can sort out Brexit, unite our party and restore pride and hope to Britain". He said: "That person is Rory Stewart. I am honoured to support him. "Some say we can leave the EU without a deal. But this would be the greatest insult to the wisdom and understanding of the British people. "They don't want a leader who offers to ruin our country. They want one to lead it. "Easy lies and false simplicities got us into this mess. They will emphatically not get us out of it." Former Cabinet ministers Andrea Leadsom, Esther McVey, Dominic Raab and Boris Johnson have also announced they would like to replace Mrs May. Boris Johnson is currently front runner in the Tory leadership race / AFP/Getty Images William Hague, who led the Conservative party in opposition between 1997 and 2001, urged candidates to "recognise the absence of certainty and go for honesty". Writing in the Daily Telegraph, he said: "If they are not careful, they are going to be swept up in the tidal wave of a rampaging Brexit Party and dashed against the sharp rocks of a hostile House of Commons. "Do explain your vision for the country, and what form of Brexit you want to see. But don't pretend you will have the power to do everything you wish. "In a political system in deep trouble for its failure to deliver, don't set yourself up to be the next example of it." J eremy Corbyn was hit by a major blow today when the equalities watchdog launched a probe into allegations of anti-Semitism within the Labour Party. The Equality and Human Rights Commission announced it had started a full statutory investigation after a dossier of complaints were submitted by campaigners and the Jewish Labour Movement handed in 1,000 pages of testimony from members. It will look into how the party investigated reports of alleged anti-Semitic discrimination and victimisation. Labour MPs were appalled that their party had failed to tackle anti-Semitism to such an extent that it was now being formally investigated. Deputy Labour leader Tom Watson said: "I have been warning both privately and publicly that we risked a vortex of shame if we didn't do everything in our power to root out anti-Semitism in our ranks. "The decision of the Equality and Human Rights Commission to launch a statutory investigation into Labour shows they have reasonable suspicion that the party has unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish. File photo: Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has denied being anti-Semitic / AFP/Getty Images "I feel utter shame that this investigation is necessary but I truly hope that it will provide the means to finally root out anti-Jewish racism from our party once and for all." Louise Ellman MP, president of the Jewish Labour Movement, said: I welcome this decision. Its a disgrace that it has come to this. I hope the EHRC will conduct a thorough investigation to expose what has been happening in the Labour Party. File photo: former Labour MP Luciana Berger quit over anti-Semitism within the party / AFP/Getty Images Wes Streeting, co-chairman of the all-party parliamentary group on anti-Semitism, said: This is a day of great shame for the Labour Party and a damning indictment on the failure of our leadership to respond to repeated warnings about the nature of our problem and what needs to be done to address it. Labour denies it has acted unlawfully or that it does not handle anti-Semitism complaints robustly. File photo: Mary Honeyball also quit last week / @maryhoneyball The last party to be investigated by the EHRC was the British National Party in 2010 over its whites-only membership rules. Dame Margaret Hodge tweeted: Nine years ago I defeated fascist Nick Griffin at the ballot box. His racist party was investigated by the EHRC that same year. Now, after four years calling out Labour anti-Semitism, the EHRC will investigate Labour as well. For Corbyn to have led us down this path is unforgivable. The investigation comes days after the party suffered humiliation at the European elections after losing half its 20 MEP seats over its unclear position on Brexit. Gideon Falter, chief executive of Campaign Against Antisemitism which submitted the dossier of complaints, said: In just four chilling years, Jeremy Corbyn has turned the party which pioneered anti-racism into the party that now finds itself in the company of the BNP, being investigated by the very equality and human rights regulator it once fought so hard to establish. The statutory investigation gives the EHRC the power to demand internal communications, such as text messages and emails, and take action against the party through the courts. The commission, which was created by a Labour government in 2006, was given tough powers designed to force organisations to comply with equality and human rights laws. It will look into whether anyone has acted illegally within Labour and whether steps were taken to implement the reports on anti-Semitism by Baroness Royall, the home affairs select committee and shadow attorney general Baroness Chakrabarti. They will also investigate whether the Labour rule book and the partys investigatory and disciplinary processes allow it to properly deal with complaints of discrimination and whether appropriate punishments have been applied. A Labour Party spokesman said: We reject any suggestion that the party does not handle anti-Semitism complaints fairly and robustly, or that the party has acted unlawfully, and we will continue to cooperate fully with the EHRC. It came as Tony Blairs former spin doctor Alastair Campbell was expelled from Labour after voting for the Liberal Democrats at the European elections last week. He wrote on Twitter: Sad and disappointed to receive email expelling me from @uklabour particularly on a day leadership finally seems to be moving to the right place on Brexit, not least thanks to tactical voting by party members, including MPs, councillors and peers who back @peoplesvote-uk. L evels of common antibiotics which are three times the "safe" concentration have been found in the River Thames, according to a new study. The river was found to be contaminated with five different drugs, including Ciprofloxacin - used to treat skin and urinary infections - which was found to be at triple the concentration which is considered safe. The University of York study tested for 14 common antibiotics in 72 countries, finding the drugs at two-thirds of the sites. Researchers found a maximum total antibiotic concentration of 233 nanograms per litre in the Thames, but in Bangladesh the concentration was 170 times higher. The Danube was found to be Europes most polluted river, with eight per cent of the continents sites above safe limits. More than a third - 35 per cent - of river sites tested in Africa exceeded safe limits, followed by 23 per cent in Asia and 18 per cent in South America. Dr John Wilkinson, one of the authors of the report, told The Times: "We're really beginning to understand that there are concentrations of antibiotics in the environment above which bacteria may select for resistance to antimicrobials. The ultimate worry here is that these pathogens may become resistant to the medication we use to kill their infection in humans." Last month, the United Nations said that antibiotic resistance could cause 10 million deaths a year by 2050. A newlywed British sailor has been jailed for eight years in the US for killing his wife who died when their yacht sank off the coast of Cuba Lewis Bennett, 42, was sentenced on Tuesday at a Miami court for the manslaughter of Isabella Hellmann, 41. Bennett, from Poole, Dorset, was initially accused of murder and intentionally scuttling the catamaran before he pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of involuntary manslaughter. He must also pay $22,910 dollars (18,000) in restitution and will spend three years on supervised release after serving his sentence, a spokeswoman for the US Department of Justice said. The catamaran as it sank off the coast of Cuba. / PA Bennett apologised to Ms Hellmann's family during the hearing before US District Judge Federico Moreno, who rejected his defence lawyer's request for a seven-year sentence. The newlyweds, who had recently had a baby daughter, had been sailing from Cuba to their home in Delray Beach, Florida, when Bennett sent a distress signal on May 15 2017. The experienced sailor, with dual British-Australian citizenship, claimed he woke to find his novice passenger missing from the 34ft vessel, Surf Into Summer. Hull damage to the catamaran. / PA But he only reported her absence 45 minutes later, after he had fled in a liferaft carrying Cuban trinkets, a tea set and a jar of peanut butter. In a twist, he was found to be smuggling rare coins worth nearly 30,000, which prosecutors cited as another potential reason he may have wanted his wife dead. He had reported the gold and silver collectables stolen from a former employer in St Maarten a year earlier. The catamaran belonging to Lewis Bennett, a newlywed British sailor whose wife died after their yacht sank off the coast of Cuba. / PA Bennett was already serving a seven-month jail term after admitting transporting the coins. He was plucked from the sea but, despite an extensive search, his wife's body was never found and she was declared dead by a judge earlier this month. A teenage boy who went viral for egging an Australian senator has donated 54,000 to the victims of the Christchurch terror attack. Will Connolly, 17, smashed an egg on the head of former federal senator Fraser Anning over his comments blaming Muslim immigration for the attack at two mosques that killed 51 people. The teenager shot to Internet fame as Egg Boy after a video of the incident at a press conference in Melbourne went viral. Supporters of the teenager set up two GoFundMe pages to raise money for his legal expenses but Will decided instead to donate the nearly $100,0000 AUD to a charity that supports the victims of the attack. In an Instagram post Will wrote: Finally!!! After a huge amount of red tape,$99,922.36 has today been transferred to the Christchurch Foundation and Victims Support. For those of you who dont know, there were 2 Go Fund Me pages set up to help cover the cost of my legal fees and to buy more eggs. Gratefully, Gordon Legal acted probono for me so I dont have any legal fees. I decided to donate all monies to help provide some relief to the victims of the massacre... it wasnt mine to keep. Melbourne teenager Will Connolly, known as EggBoy speaks out Melbourne teenager Will Connolly, known as EggBoy speaks out I want to thank Corey and @sajjad12345 who set up the funds and every single person who donated to the money and made this possible. To the victims of the Tragedy, I whole heartedly hope that this can bring some relief to you. Keep spreading the love. The post was liked nearly 64,000 times and commenters praised the teenager as a legend. In an interview following the egging, Will said: "This egg has united people and money has been raised, tens of thousands of dollars has been raised for those victims," Mr Connolly said. "It's going to help people affected by the tragedy in Christchurch, every cent." He maintained the stunt was intended to be a few laughs with mates and did not expect the Senator to react to the egging. T wo people, including a schoolgirl, have been killed and 16 more injured after a knifeman launched an attack at a bus stop in Japan. The attacker was reportedly carrying a knife in each hand and screamed I will kill you before launching his attack in Kawasaki, just outside Tokyo, on Tuesday. The two killed were thought to be a 12-year-old girl and a 39-year-old man. Most of the victims were said to be schoolgirls aged between six and 12. They were said to be lined up at a bus stop, when the man, thought to be in his 50s, began slashing them with knives. Japan stabbing - In pictures 1 /10 Japan stabbing - In pictures At least 18 people were injured during the bus stop attack, most of which were children AFP/Getty Images Elementary School students leave their school with parents following an attack in Kawasaki, near Tokyo AP Rescue workers operate at the site Reuters Police investigate the site of a mass stabbing in Kawasaki, near Tokyo, Japan EPA Witnesses claimed the knifeman screamed "I will kill you" before launching his attack AP Two people, including a schoolgirl, were killed before the knifeman took his own life EPA Police officers guard at the scene where a man wielding a knife attacked commuters in Kawasaki, near Tokyo AP The attack took place in Kawasaki near Tokyo on Tuesday EPA Masami Arai, an official at the Kawasaki city office, said three of the injuries were serious and 13 others were not life-threatening. Most of the victims attended a school founded by Soeurs de la Charite de Quebec, an organisation of Catholic nuns in Quebec City in Canada. Officials said the suspect had been detained after stabbing himself in the neck. National broadcaster NHK said he had later died. Witnesses claimed the knifeman screamed "I will kill you" before launching his attack / AP Police did not immediately confirm the report. A witness told the Mainichi newspaper that he heard children shrieking after walking past a bus. The attack took place in Kawasaki near Tokyo on Tuesday / EPA When he turned around, he saw a man wielding a knife in each hand, screaming "I will kill you" and that several children were on the ground. Another told NHK he saw people lying on the ground covered in blood. He added: "I saw a boy carrying a school bag with scratches on his face, wrist and legs in a parking lot. "He was visibly trembling - frightened and shocked." NHK also said that a bus driver told officials that a man holding a knife in each hand walked towards the bus and started slashing children. At least 18 people were injured during the bus stop attack, most of which were children / AFP/Getty Images The attacker's identity and motive weren't immediately known. Television footage showed emergency workers giving first aid to people inside an orange tent set up on the street, and police and other officials carrying the injured to ambulances. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe described the stabbing spree as harrowing, adding that he is outraged and will take all necessary measures for children's safety. Mr Abe said: "It was an extremely harrowing incident in which many small children were victimised, and I feel strong resentment... I will take all possible measures to protect the safety of children." U.S. President Donald Trump, who is currently on a state visit to Japan, offered his sympathy to the victims. He was on stage with Mr Abe when he said: "I want to take a moment to send our prayers and sympathy to the victims of the stabbing attack this morning in Tokyo. President Trump paid tribute to the victims while on a state visit / Getty Images All Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieves for the victims and their families." Violent crime is relatively rare in Japan but occasional high-profile incidents have shocked the nation. A knife-wielding man broke into a facility for the disabled in a small town near Tokyo in 2016 and killed 19 patients in their sleep. In 2001, eight children were stabbed to death by a former janitor at their school in Osaka. T he ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has promised to donate at least half her fortune to charity, just months after finalising her divorce from the world's richest man. MacKenzie Bezos, 49, reportedly received a stake in Amazon worth around 27.5 billion when she amicably divorced her husband of 16 years in April. She has now agreed to give more than half of the money to philanthropic causes by signing the Giving Pledge a commitment made by Americas billionaires to donate a majority of their wealth to charity, either during their lifetimes or in their wills. The Giving Pledge was launched in 2010 by 40 of Americas wealthiest individuals and couples, including Bill and Melinda Gates. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and his wife Melinda are famous for their philanthropic activities. / AFP Since then, it has been signed by 204 billionaires from across the world, ranging in age from 30s to 90s, according to the philanthropic collectives official website. In her letter to the Giving Pledge, Ms Bezos said she had a disproportionate amount of money to share. "We each come by the gifts we have to offer by an infinite series of influences and lucky breaks we can never fully understand," she added. My approach to philanthropy will continue to be thoughtful. It will take time and effort and care. But I wont wait. And I will keep at it until the safe is empty. Ms Bezos ranks 22nd on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, with a a personal fortune estimated at $36.6 billion (almost 28.9 million). Her former husband leads the global rankings with a net worth of roughly $114 billion (around 89.9 million) although he is notably absent from the Giving Pledges list of signatories. Mr Bezos expressed pride at his former wifes move, writing in a Twitter post: MacKenzie is going to be amazing and thoughtful and effective at philanthropy, and Im proud of her. Her letter is so beautiful. Go get em MacKenzie. The author and mother-of-four was one of 19 new Giving Pledge signatories announced on Tuesday. The group also included Brian Acton, the co-founder of WhatsApp messenger and Paul Sciarra, the co-founder of Pinterest. American business magnate and veteran investor Warren Buffett is one of the Giving Pledges co-founders. A new Filipino law would require all graduating high school and college students to plant at least 10 trees before they can graduate. The law, which has been passed by the countrys lower parliamentary House of Represensatives, formalises a tradition of planting trees upon graduation. The proponents of the law say the legislation could result in as many as 525 billion trees planted in a generation if it is properly adhered to. It has not yet been considered by the Senate (the upper parliamentary chamber), which must approve it before it can be signed into law by the President. "With over 12 million students graduating from elementary and nearly five million students graduating from high school and almost 500,000 graduating from college each year, this initiative, if properly implemented, will ensure that at least 175 million new trees would be planted each year, MADGALO representative Gay Alejano wrote on the bills explanatory note. In the course of one generation, no less than 525 billion can be planted under this initiative. He added that even with the survival rate of only 10 percent, it would mean an additional 525 million trees would be available for the youth to enjoy when they assume the mantle of leadership in the future. Priority would be given to forest lands, mangrove and protected areas, ancestral domains, civil and military reservations, urban areas, inactive and abandoned mine sites, according to CNN. Consideration would also be given to the type of trees to make sure they are appropriate to the location, climate and topography of the area as well as preference given to planting indigenous species. The Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education will be the government bodies making sure the scheme is implemented. The move follows other recent environmental initiatives in the Philippines such as using banana leaves instead of single-use plastic in supermarkets. P lucked from across the Atlantic, pinatas are an increasingly popular element at parties in the UK. For the uninitiated, pinatas (pronounced pin-ya-ta) are common in Latin America. Typically made from cardboard or papier-mache, theyre hollow models suspended on trees or an overhang and stuffed with sweets, small toys and other child-friendly treats. Blindfolded children must smash through the model, which should be moving on a washing line or strong rope, with a stick to retrieve the goodies. Pin the tail on the donkey it emphatically is not. Although we imagine them as a western invention, pinatas have some origins in the Far East. Its thought they were brought back by legendary explorer Marco Polo from China in the 13th Century where they were used to celebrate New Year. Readapted for Lent in Italy (where it was known as pignatta, Italian for 'small pot'), the popularity of pinatas soared and when Catholic missionaries from Spain travelled to the New World, they found the Aztecs and Mayans had a similar custom there too. All really rather intriguing, and although some religious good vs evil dogma remains (in Mexico, a traditional pinata is shaped like a seven-pointed star to represent the seven deadly sins), these days pinatas are simply for creating a smashing time at birthdays, BBQs, weddings any big celebration. As well as stars and donkeys, you can now get pinatas in a vast spectrum of shapes and themes, from unicorns and rainbows to political themes (find a Brexit pinata here) as well as less-controversial motifs like pineapples, cactus and flamingos. All you need to play is a blindfold, a washing line, a stick and a competitive. Got a specific design in mind? Head to Pinatas London to enquire about bespoke commissions. Just make sure your fillers are small enough to survive a good thrashing and that theres plenty of them to go around - pretty much anything goes. See below for some of our favourite pinatas to hang and smash at your next party. Llama Birthday Pinata This is one cool llama. Festooned with coloured blue paper, a festive saddle, multi-coloured ribbons and a suitably celebratory party hat and sunglasses, this is the perfect party piece for your guests to enjoy. 12.20 | Party Puffin | Buy it now Amscan Pinata Dinosaur T-Rex Perfect for small children, this dinosaur-themed pinata is delivered directly to your home or office, wrapped securely in brown padding. It's not huge (about the size of a house cat) which means it will be easier for younger kids to whack and get to the goodies inside. A plastic hoop is attached to the top of the T-Rex to make it easier to hang from a tree or washing line. 11.45 | Amazon | Buy it now Holographic Magic Unicorn Pinata Dazzle your darlings with this disco ready unicorn measuring 54 x 14 x 40 cm. Complete with a blindfold, stick and confetti all you need is an bag of sweets to make this a truly magical memory. If you're not a unicorn fan a butterfly and race car pinata are also available from the link below. 35.99 | Amazon | Buy it now Tesco Unicorn Pinata Fabulously decked out with colourful paper, ribbon and tinsel, this unicorn pinata is ideal for partygoers of all ages. Store sweets and small games inside and use the attached string for an extra element of mystery as to who will be the one to release the treats inside. Measures 32cm x 49cm x 14cm. 10 | Tesco | Buy it now Star Wars Darth Vader Pull Pinata There's no need to break open this with a stick, as the ribbons act as a Russian roulette to release the treasure hiding inside the Darth Vader design. There are 12 pull strings, so this ideal for smaller children's parties. Measures 53cm x 33cm. 13.99 | Party Pieces | Buy it now Cactus Pinata Measuring 63cm x 28cm, this 3D cactus design can accommodate up to 2lbs of favours and sweets in its centre. It's ideal for a Wild West or Mexican-themed party or BBQ. Not suitable for children under 3 years, and always play under the direct supervision of an adult. 13.75 | Amazon | Buy it now Personalised Hen Party Flamingo Pinata Want to host a hen party with a difference? Invite one more chick to your do and it's guaranteed you'll have a smashing good time. You can even personalise the 60cm x 60cm card and tissue paper creation with the name of the bride-to-be to make the event even more special. 21 | Not On The High Street | Buy it now Ginger Ray Rose Gold Gender Reveal Pinata This enigmatic question mark-shaped piece is designed for anyone hosting a baby shower/ gender reveal party. It's become really popular to hold such events, sometimes with pinata cakes (where the centre is filled with pink or blue Smarties) but we think an actual pinata offers an exciting twist. This pack includes pink and blue confetti to fill along with the 45cm x 28cm x 7cm rose gold pinata. 14.99 | ASOS | Buy it now Mermaid Pinata Plucked from her magical undersea kingdom, this iridescent mermaid pinata is perfect for shellebrating (not sorry) birthday parties or events with a nautical theme. This one does require a little assembly as well as filling with sweets, so make sure you assemble well ahead of the party. 20.50 | Meri Meri | Buy it now Paperchase Mini Heart Pinatas The latest trend in the pinata world is for mini sizes, filled with treats for one. They work brilliantly as party favours, and these versions from Paperchase house a sheet of temporary tattoos too! There's plenty of space inside, allowing you to personalise extra treats for your guests. 5 for a pack of 3 | Paperchase | Buy it now *On sale from 10 Ice Lolly Mini Pinata This lolly does the opposite of keeping you cool. You and your friends will work up a sweat with this mini pinata, shaped like an ice cream. A hanging string is attached to the top and it's just big enough to hold a few gummy sweets the perfect treat to enjoy after a summer BBQ. 19 | Sunnylife | Buy it now Verdict A ctors Jamie Bell and Kate Mara have welcomed their first child together. Mara shared the happy news with her Instagram followers, posting a sweet photo of the newborns tiny feet resting on a fluffy blanket. We had a baby a couple of weeks ago Here are her feet, she wrote. The couples famous friends rushed to congratulate them on their new arrival, with Maras The Martian co-star Jessica Chastain writing: Congrats dear one!!! Former Friends actress Courteney Cox added: Awwww so sweet!! Congratulations you two!! Kate Bosworth wrote: So happy for you Kate!!! The 36-year-old confirmed her pregnancy in February, sharing a photo of herself and the Billy Elliot star at Sir Elton Johns annual AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party with the caption: Went on a date with our bun in the oven. Mara was previously reported to be expecting a baby in January, after Page Six claimed that the star was overheard telling Emily Blunt the news at the 2019 Golden Globes. Loved up: Jamie Bell and Kate Mara on the red carpet / Dave Benett The couple starred opposite one another in superhero movie Fantastic Four in 2014 and started dating the following year, before marrying in 2017 at their neighbours home in Los Angeles. We actually got married right across the street from our house, Bell told Late Late Show host James Corden in 2018. I literally woke up in my own bed and walked across the street, and we had our ceremony. Speaking on Watch What Happens Live in 2017, Mara revealed that the pair actually first met about a decade beforehand at a screen test. We met like 10 years before, she told host Andy Cohen. We did a screen test together and had to kiss and it was very - I had to kiss many guys that day for the screen test. K atie Price has been accused of 'Photoshopping' her latest photo with her son Junior, using editing techniques to show off her surgery. Price went under the knife earlier this month in Turkey for liposuction, a face lift and a Brazilian bum lift to try to enhance her looks. Price updated fans on her progress as she posed in red workout clothes alongside her teenage son Junior on Monday. My body is getting there after surgery thanks to @comfortzonesurgeryofficial red hot, Price captioned the post. Fans rushed to comment on the stunning snap as they complimented Prices looks, but some claimed the photo looked heavily edited, calling out the wonky car grill in the shot. One wrote: Good job with the Photoshop. Keep it up, a new career ahead. Under the knife: Katie Price showed off the results of her facelift on Good Morning Britain (Ken McKay/ITV/Rex ) / Ken McKay/ITV/Rex Another laughed: Oh come on ! Your Photoshop skills are worse than mine!!! Not being funny but after all the work youve had done, I wouldnt still expect you to be editing your pictures, posted somebody else. Katie Price says she wants to 'look the same' in real life and on Instagram Others urged fellow users not to be fooled and criticised her for not being a good role model and promoting surgery. But some leapt to Prices defence as they told trolls to bore off and just unfollow if they didnt like the former models uploads. There are so many frauds on Instagram, she told Good Morning Britain. I like it if people meet me and I look the same as my picture. I dont want to adapt it so I look skinny and flawless. Id rather be what I am in life. Standard Online has contacted a representative for Price for comment. S pice Girls fans were left disappointed by awful sound quality at the groups reunion show in Cardiff, with some calling for refunds. Geri Horner (nee Halliwell), Emma Bunton, Melanie Brown and Melanie Chisholm performed at Cardiffs Principality Stadium last night, after opening their tour in Dublins Croke Park on Friday. Following complaints over sound issues at the Dublin gig, Welsh fans claimed that they struggled to hear the bands hits - despite experiencing few problems during support act Jess Glynnes set. Jess Glynne was crystal clear but the Spice Girls were shocking, one punter wrote on Twitter. Couldnt hear any vocals when they were singing or when they were speaking. Everything was just muffled and echoing. So disappointed that we left early. Disappointed: Some Spice Girls fans were less than impressed with the sound quality / SplashNews.com Okay so @spicegirls was so much fun however the sound was atrocious and you could not hear what they actually said! another wrote. So disappointing when you pay soo much for a once in a lifetime opportunity. @spicegirls not much better in Cardiff The sound was awful again What a way to spend money! #refundplease another wrote. The @spicegirls show in @principalitysta couldve been amazing but unfortunately sound quality from our seat was really poor couldnt hear what they were saying or hear their vocals! Surely this is a basic requirement of a concert @TicketmasterUK ????? another disgruntled audience member said. Others defended the group, claiming they had experienced no problems at the show. Fans in high spirits as Spice Girls kick off arena tour in Dublin Theres no sound issues [sic], one supporter wrote on Twitter. Its a massive stadium with 80,000 people crammed in it, singing and shouting. Not sure what people expect really. The show was amazing. Standard Online has contacted representatives for the band for further comment. Brown addressed sound problems at the bands Dublin show in an Instagram Story shared over the weekend, promising fans: We will see you in Cardiff and hopefully the vocals and the sound will be much, much better. The bands tour is set to continue with dates in Manchester, Coventry, Sunderland, Edinburgh and Bristol before culminating in three nights at Londons Wembley Stadium next month. A manda Holden joked she has "washed her mouth out" after swearing during last night's Britain's Got Talent. The terrified judge dropped an f-bomb as she took part in The Haunting magic act, which left her scared witless by ghosts on Monday night. After joining the act's lead Elizabeth on stage, Holden screamed "f***" as the act intensified before clamping her hand over her mouth to stop any other bad language slipping out. "I just really want to apologise. I said a really terrible word," Holden said after the act. "I know there are kids watching - I know my kids are watching - so [a] massive apology." Oops: Amanda Holden covered her mouth after accidentally swearing on air / Rex Features And the star managed to joke about her accidental expletive at the top of Tuesday night's second semi-final, after Ant McPartlin promised her nothing would be scaring her in the show. Holden quipped: "You'll be relieved to know I have washed my mouth out with soap." What Amanda Holden did straight after terrifying Britain's Got Talent haunting The swearing blunder prompted 38 complaints to media watchdog Ofcom, alongside 154 about the scary act itself. Speaking on Britain's Got More Talent, Holden revealed that the performance gave her a "panic attack" after she realised her language. Its all very boring [when the cameras stop], she told Stephen Mulhern. Simon [Cowell] goes out for a vape. I said oh my God, oh my God dont fire me for swearing. I had a panic attack and went to the toilet lots of times." T he psychologist who worked on Killing Eve drew on prison work with psychopaths to help bring cold-blooded killer Villanelle to the screen. Jodie Comer recently won a Bafta for her portrayal of the murderous hitwoman who despatches her targets wearing designer clothes. The show returns to BBC One next month, following the runaway success of the first series written by Fleabag creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge. Mark Freestone, a senior lecturer at the Centre for Psychiatry at Queen Mary University of London, worked with Waller-Bridge and Comer to ensure the main character was authentic. Expensive taste: Jodie Comer's Villanelle wears designer outfits / Nick Wall/BBCAmerica He said her love of looking good in everything from a Dries Van Noten power suit to a pink Molly Goddard tulle dress was integral to the portrayal as he had worked with patients with a similar love of clothes. The psychologist, who has also spent 15 years working with psychopaths in prisons, said Comers charming and appealing performance rang true. Psychopaths can often come across as very appealing people, not just because of their clarity of vision, but also they often have quite good dress sense like Villanelle who buys all these wonderful clothes, he said. Killing Eve season 2 trailer I worked with a case for many years where one of my patients had wanted to seduce his neighbour, which didnt end well, but on the way he basically learned how to dress really, really well and started buying incredibly expensive clothes to match the ideal. Dr Freestone said he had met psychopathic gangland killers in prison and the way they attempted to manipulate him was reflected in the relationship between Villanelle and Eve, the intelligence agent played by Sandra Oh. He said: Its sort of like a cat and mouse game and I need this from you and youre dangling it in front of me and giving me titbits to keep me coming along to the sessions but Im never quite getting enough. Fashion forward: Jodie Comer in a Molly Goddard piece / BBC America As part of his work advising on the first two series of the show, he put together a medical report on the character as if she were a real patient and revealed she scored 32 on a 40-point psychopathy checklist, making her a primary psychopath. He said: One of the defining characteristics of psychopaths is they are not anxious at all about the things that you and I are anxious about, so Villanelle doesnt seem to experience any anxiety about killing people or being caught and her dynamics with the security services is like a flirtatious relationship rather than something where there is a real threat to her. W hat do you use your phone for the most? Is it checking emails, speaking to people on social media, watching YouTube? Regardless of how you use your device, many people are in agreement that they spend too much time glued to their phones. New research by Google has shown that 79 per cent of people in the UK want to find a better balance with their smartphone usage. Of the 3,000 British adults surveyed, nearly half (47 per cent) believe that their phone affects their work, saying they would be more efficient if they could master control over their device. Over a quarter, 27 per cent, said they would be more present in their relationships if they had better control. On top of that, one in five (23 per cent) said they think they would find more time to be creative in the kitchen if they spent less time on their phone. Tristan Harris, co-founder of the Time Well Spent Movement and the Centre for Humane Technology, says this addiction to our smartphones is causing human downgrading. Harris, who appeared by video chat at the inaugural Digital Wellness Festival earlier this month, describes human downgrading as: the result of technology caught in a race to capture human attention, in this race to the bottom of the brain stem. Who can go lower into your outrage, your vanity, getting you addicted to attention from other people. Tristan Harris, former design ethicist at Google, wants to help people change their relationships with their phones and social media / Centre for Humane Technology As a former design ethicist at Google, he believes that the pull of our devices is too strong for us to overcome alone. Thats not because humans are necessarily weak, its more that the way things like social media have been designed is completely overwhelming. The technology weve built is smart enough that it can manipulate its creators, the humans who theoretically should be in control, he said over the phone from California. Take Instagram, for example. He says the photo-sharing app has pulled on the self-esteem puppet strings of hundreds of millions of kids. And its just tugging those strings all the way to go left towards depression, self-harm, isolation. That is what Instagram inadvertently, not intended, has done. Time to prevent human downgrading It's not all doom and gloom. Other speakers at the Digital Wellness Festival included Good Technology Collectives Nicholas Borsotto, and Googles Rose La Prairie, all discussing how tech companies can approach designing their products in order to prevent techs addictive nature. La Prairie, for instance, oversees Googles Digital Wellbeing features which provides analysis on a users screen time usage. Android users can set app time limits so as not to spend too long in one particular app, whilst Google Pixel phone owners can use the Wind Down feature to reduce the screen's blue light before going to bed. Apple offers similar functions with its Screen Time feature in iOS 12. These settings work: Googles research demonstrated that 78 per cent of people felt happier about their phone usage since using a digital wellbeing app. They reported finding more time to meditate, as well as improved sleep. The digital wellbeing dashboard breaks down how users are spending their time on devices / Google Harris believes these screen time graphs are a step in the right direction, and that its good to see Apple and Google competing against one another to protect their users. For these features to have a lasting impact, though, the companies need to ensure they go beyond just a graph. We need to move the goal posts from who can provide the better, cool chart of how many hours you spend per day, to how do we completely reverse the human downgrading, the downgrading of attention spans, reverse the downgrading of critical thinking? he said. There are a few simple things Harris suggests, such as turning off all notifications except for when it involves another human, so calls and text messages. Removing apps from your home screen is another one. This forces you to make a conscious choice [to open an app], rather than an unconscious choice, he explained. Just changing the relationship with your phone in the sense that make it not a consumption device, but really just a tool. The Centre for Humane Technology will be researching other ways that human-focused design can enforce this positive use of tech, instead of the negative. It may seem scary that our phones and social media profiles are controlling us in ways we cant imagine. But now is the time to do something before it becomes too overwhelming. Right now, our minds are inhabiting a Las Vegas-like digital environment, said Harris. Adding a meditation app here or there is like making sure theres a meditation store in Las Vegas, when youre mind is still surrounded by Las Vegas. I kea is making a big push into online shopping with the launch of a new app that allows customers to shop interior items in augmented reality. The Swedish-based company has been experimenting with AR for a while. It launched a separate AR app, Ikea Place, back in 2017, which allowed customers to see how an item of furniture would fit in their home or space, however, there was no option to buy the actual products in the app. The new app, launching first in France and the Netherlands before coming to the UK by the end of the year, will enable people to visualise the products in their home before directly buying it in the app. What is augmented reality? Augmented reality is when computer-generated images are superimposed over a users view of the real world, usually using a smartphone, which can enhance the perception of reality. Ikeas chief digital officer, Barbara Martin Coppola, told Reuters: It is a completely new experience. The app is combined with the store experience, with the online experience. Ikea Places allowed customers to see furniture in AR but they were unable to purchase items directly in the app / Ikea The AR features arent just aimed at those shopping at home. As Ikea moves to smaller, city-centre focused stores, such as its Planning Studio store in Tottenham Court Road, the app will allow people in an Ikea store to see a fuller range of products than is possible in a smaller space. For instance, if there is a particular chair a shopper likes, they can point their phone at it and see other textures and colours available. People who go to the stores might want to access the full range of Ikea, and that is when digital innovations come in handy, added Martin Coppola. Homes interiors and furniture e-commerce has been led by a few select players, such as MADE.com and Swoon, and Ikea is hoping to catch up with these competitors. MADE, in particular, infuses tech in all of its offerings, whether its shopping online or in store. In its showrooms in the likes of Soho, Paris and Berlin, there are supersized touch screens to help customers find products that match their taste, as well as Shop Instagram, a shoppable feed of social media posts featuring the brands products. The company recently launched a new MADE Labs project to find the next generation of interior design start-ups. World War II U.S. Army veteran Paul E. Malone, of Reva, witnessed the death of many men during his time on the battlefields of North Africa, Italy, France and Germany. I saw 400 days of combat so I lost a lot of them, said the 95-year-old Reva resident, his eyes filling with tears, during Mondays annual Memorial Day ceremony at Culpeper National Cemetery. Malone was infantry, said his caretaker, Navy veteran Michael Smith. The man never got a scratch, Smith said, reciting the details of his service. And he was the only one left from his original platoon. The rest got killed or wounded. When Malone, an Indiana native, got out of the Army, he reenlisted and worked in the machine shop at the former military facility at Flint Hill, Virginia. Asked how long he was in the Army, the nonagenarian replied, with surety, 21 years, seven months and 12 days. Never a day should go by that Americans forget the sacrifice or those fighting on todays battlefields to ensure our freedoms, said Culpeper National Cemetery Director Matthew Priest. A veteran himself, Priest quoted the 1964 speech made by Ronald Reagan before he was president in stressing the value of American liberty. One day, we were driving up the upper loop of the neighborhood when my dad suddenly stopped the car and pulled the emergency break. As he got out of the car, he looked at me and asked, "Do you want to drive?" I had no idea how to drive a stick, but I figured it couldnt be that hard. LAUREN BRANT: Cruising in the 64 Vette, learning to drive a Muncie Lauren Brant takes photos in her dad's 1964 Corvette Stingray on the Fourth of July. Sean's car collection began with the Corvette and is the With one foot on the clutch and the other on the brake, I released the emergency brake and began to push the gas. The car started jerking back and forth until it suddenly died and we started rolling backward. I slammed on the brakes and looked at my dad in terror. I dumped the clutch and had killed the engine from a lack of gas. Turning the key in the ignition, I tried again and every time my dad and I jerked back and forth in the seat as we made our way backwards down the hill. After multiple failed attempts, we switched seats and my dad drove to the top of the hill. Since shifting into gear going down hill was more forgiving, my dad let me take over driving down so I could get a feel for the clutch. As I started to gain some confidence, I came to a stop sign. While the Corvette jerked a couple times as I accelerated through the intersection, it was not half as bad as my attempt going up the hill. A shooting victim decided to follow an ambulance instead of going to a hospital after an incident in Mooresville Monday. The move led them to a movie theater, though there was no incident involving shots fired at that site. Two men residing on Selma Drive were visited by two other men prior to the incident, according to a release from the Mooresville Police Department. Shots were fired at the visiting men, the release stated. The victim then followed an ambulance responding to a medical call at Amstar Theatres. There was no shooting or active shooter incident at the theater, the release stated. As of Monday afternoon, two victims were at Lake Norman Regional Medical Center, one with a gunshot wound and a second with an injury not yet confirmed, the release stated. One victim was hospitalized in Charlotte with gunshot wounds. An investigation is ongoing. They performed the ceremony nearly a half-dozen times Monday morning but each one was done with reverence to honor their brothers and sisters who died in service to their country. The burial detail from various military organizations in Iredell County placed wreaths at the veterans monuments in various cemeteries and the Field of Flags in Mooresville and held a short, but meaningful ceremony. The ceremonies were followed by the firing of weapons and the playing of Taps. At Belmont Cemetery Monday morning, Harold Smith placed a wreath at the monument and Robert Osborne, Benny Wilhelm, Anthony Darty and Amy Morris put poppies at in front of the monument. Poppies were chosen because of the poem In Flanders Fields by John McCrae. Poppies were the first flowers to grow on the soldiers graves in the Flanders region of Belgium. Charles Williams, former commander of VFW Post 2031, talked about the symbolism of the poppy in his address during a ceremony at Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home Monday morning. Williams said the poppy was officially adopted by the American Legion as a symbol after World War I, and since that time the red poppy has been a symbol of remembrance. New Delhi, May 28 (UNI): President of Bangladesh Md. Abdul Hamid, his Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Ministers of Mauritius and Nepal Pravind Kumar Jugnauth and K.P. Sharma Oli respectively will attend the ceremony in which Narendra Modi with take path as the Prime Minister of India on May 30. According to an MEA spokesman, Sooronbay Jeenbekov, President of the Kyrgyz Republic, U Win Myint, President of Myanmar, Dr Lotay Tshering, Prime Minister of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, Special Envoy of Thailand, have also confirmed their participation. "We look forward to receiving the dignitaries in New Delhi for the ceremony. We will keep you abreast of any related developments, including bilateral engagements, in due course," the spokesman said. On Monday, Prime Minister Modi has invited government and nation heads of the BIMSTEC member states for his swearing-in on May 30. "Government of India has invited the leaders of the BIMSTEC Member States for the swearing-in ceremony. This is in line with Government's focus on its 'Neighbourhood First' policy," the MEA spokesman said. The President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov, who is the current Chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, is also coming. In 2014, Mr Modi had invited all SAARC nation and government heads for the swearing in ceremony. The field of construction involves the highest energy consumption compared to other economic sectors such as transport, industry and agriculture, according to the experts present at the 13th edition of the International Congress Clima 2019 that is taking place these days in Bucharest. "97pct of researchers mainatin that all these climatic changes in the last century are the result of human activity. At this year's Clima Congress, we are trying to investigate the changes we have to operate on buildings to counter climate change, caused to a high extent by construction - the sphere with the highest energy consumption compared to other economic domains: transport, industry, agriculture", emphasized Catalin Lungu at the Technical University of Constructions in Bucharest and the director general of the Clima 2019 event.This month, Bucharest is hosting one of the most important European events dedicated to the constructions and installations of the future - Clima 2019, a congress focusing on topics such as: plumbing systems and equipment for smart, energy-efficient buildings, passive buildings and renewable energy sources, integrated urban energy management systems, comfort in buildings and other artificial living environments in an adverse external environment.The event brings together over 1,000 participants from over 40 countries and six continents from 26 to 29 May: Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, North America and South America.According to the organizers - the Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), the Association of Plumbing Engineering in Romania (AIIR) and the Technical University of Civil Engineering (UTCB) - it is for the first time in the last 25 years, when a Southeastern European country hosts this event and an absolute first for Romania.The Bucharest edition, held out under the Romanian Academy's High Patronage, is entitled "Built Environment Facing Climate Change." The Liberals will submit a censure motion in this parliamentary session should the Dancila Government not resign, on Tuesday said this party's leader Ludovic Orban. "The Romanians, with a resounding majority no longer want the PSD [the Social Democratic Party, major at rule, ed. n.] in power. (...) Because of this, the PNL [the National Liberal Party] will take all possible constitutional, legal steps to put an end to this government. We repeat our request to the gov't: Step down! (...) The Romanians no longer want you at Romania's helm! Should the gov't not resign, the PNL will submit a censure motion against this government by end of this parliamentary session," Orban asserted at the end of the PNL National Executive Bureau's meeting. The Conclusions of the Competitiveness, Internal Market and Industry Council recommend for the future industrial policy strategy to highlight the opportunities for European industry and to addresses the challenges it faces, to include all the relevant policy areas and specify the policy objectives and indicators, a Ministry of Economy release sent to AGERPRES on Tuesday informs. According to the quoted source, on Monday, 27 May 2019, the second EU Competitiveness Council meeting was held in Brussels under the aegis of the Romanian Presidency at the EU Council and coordinated by the Ministry of Economy. The works of the Competitiveness Council were chaired by Minister of Research and Innovation Nicolae Hurduc and the Economy Ministry was represented by Secretary of State Ilie Calin Bodea. The last meeting of the Competitiveness, Internal Market and Industry Council under the aegis of the Romanian EU Council Presidency included on the agenda topical subjects featuring on the European strategic agenda on industry, the EU Single Market, tourism, legislative files adopted in the first semester of 2019. The Ministry of Economy proposed the member states to adopt three sets of conclusions in important areas for the European economy: the Conclusions regarding a EU Industrial Policy Strategy: "A vision for 2030," the Conclusions on "A new level of ambition for a competitive single market" and the Conclusions on "Competitiveness of the tourism sector as a driver for sustainable economic growth, jobs and social cohesion in the EU." The Council Conclusions on Industry recommend for the future industrial policy strategy to highlight opportunities for the European industry and tackle the challenges it is confronted with, to include all relevant policy areas and to set out policy objectives and indicators. At the same time, the future strategy should be accompanied by a specific action plan containing concrete measures, a timetable for the implementation and appropriate monitoring mechanisms. "The Romanian Presidency at the EU Council paid a great importance to developing a comprehensive and long-term strategy for EU industrial policy with a clear vision for 2030 and a long-term vision for a more efficient and competitive Single Market. Today's discussions and conclusions represent a substantial contribution of the EU Competitiveness Council to the future initiatives of the European Commission regarding the industrial policy and the Single Market," Research and Innovation Minister Nicolae Hurduc stated. AGERPRES President Klaus Iohannis is attending today a summit meeting of the European People's Party (EPP) in Brussels and an informal meeting of the European Council, also in Brussels. According to the official agenda, Iohannis will go to the EPP summit at 14:00hrs, EEST, and to the informal European summit at 19:00hrs, EEST. According to the Presidential Administration, discussions at the informal meeting of the European Council will assess the results of the European Parliament elections of May 23 to May 26. Leaders of the EU member states will also have a preliminary discussion on the candidates to be appointed to the management of EU institutions. As regards the appointment procedures, "the European Council shall elect its President, by a qualified majority, for a term of two and a half years, renewable once," in accordance with Article 15 (5) of the Treaty on European Union. The term of office of the current president of the European Council runs out on November 30. Under Article 17 (7) of the Treaty on European Union, "taking into account the elections to the European Parliament and after having held the appropriate consultations, the European Council, acting by a qualified majority, shall propose to the European Parliament a candidate for President of the Commission. This candidate shall be elected by the European Parliament by a majority of its component members. If he does not obtain the required majority, the European Council, acting by a qualified majority, shall within one month propose a new candidate who shall be elected by the European Parliament following the same procedure. The Council, by common accord with the President-elect, shall adopt the list of the other persons whom it proposes for appointment as members of the Commission. The President, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the other members of the Commission shall be subject as a body to a vote of consent by the European Parliament. On the basis of this consent the Commission shall be appointed by the European Council, acting by a qualified majority. The tenure of the current president of the European Commission expires on October 31. Under Article 18, "the European Council, acting by a qualified majority, with the agreement of the President of the Commission, shall appoint the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy." The term of office of the current high representative expires on October 31. AGERPRES Several dozens of people protested on Monday evening outside the Foreign Affairs Ministry (MAE), asking the resignation of Foreign Affairs Minister Teodor Melescanu, regarding the manner in which the voting unfolded in the polling stations opened for the Romanians abroad. A group of protesters who initially protested in Victoriei Square went to the MAE headquarters, chanting slogans such as "Everybody has the right to vote" and "Teodor Melescanu, resign." Several hundred people gathered on Monday evening in Victoriei Square to protest against the Government and the coalition in power, but also to celebrate the results obtained by the opposition parties on the European elections held on Sunday. The people who gathered outside the Gov't headquarters waved Romania's and the EU's flags and displayed banners with the following messages "Down with the perpetrators!" and "#likeafool." Moreover, the protesters chanted slogans such as "Resign!," "Down with the Gov't!," "PSD, the red plague." The protesters showed solidarity with the Romanians who couldn't vote on Sunday in the polling stations established abroad because of the manner in which the voting was organised. They chanted "Diaspora." AGERPRES Kejriwal Jong Un Twitter page Lahore, May 28 (IBNS): In a major development, a group of locals partially destroyed the four-storey centuries-old Guru Nanak palace, once visited by Sikhs from across the world, in Pakistans Narowal area, local media reports said on Tuesday. According to Dawn News report, a group of locals partially demolished a four-storey centuries-old building allegedly with the connivance of auqaf department officials and even sold its precious windows, doors and ventilators. The building is assumed to have been build over four centuries ago in village Bathanwala. Its construction comprised old bricks, sand, clay and limestone. There were 16 large rooms in the building all of which had at least three beautiful doors and at least four ventilators. The rooms were constructed with large broad walls with cupboards in them that had wooden doors with flowers carved on them.All the rooms were airy and their walls had small lamp enclosures in them. Diyar wood beams of various sizes were used in the roofs; the wood costs thousands of rupees per foot, reported Dawn News. The walls surrounding the building had beautiful designs and were intricately painted with pictures of Baba Guru Nanak. Guru Nanak was the founder of Sikhism. The paintings also included those of various Hindu rulers and princes, reports said. A local resident, Muhammad Aslam, told Dawn News: This old building is called the Palace of Baba Guru Nanak and we have named it Mahalan. A number of Sikhs from across the world, including India, used to visit this building. Another local, Muhammad Ashraf, told the news paper: The auqaf department was informed about the demolition of the building by some influential persons, but no officer or official took any action or even reached here. He also claimed: Three storeys of the building have already been demolished and new houses constructed. The influentials have demolished the building with the connivance of the auqaf department and sold its costly windows, doors, ventilators and wood. ETPB Sialkot zone Rent Collector Rana Waheed told Dawn News: Our team is investigating the Guru Nanak Mahal Bathanwala. If this palace was the property of Evacuee Trust Property Board, legal action will be taken against those responsible. Dawn News further reported that locals demanded Prime Minister Imran Khan to take immediate notice of the destruction of this heritage site and take action against those who demolished it. Fiorani said Fiat Chrysler could benefit from sharing the French automaker's expertise in electric vehicles and powertrains, where Renault and Nissan have jointly invested more than $5 billion. These are areas in which Fiat Chrysler has little in the way of components or intellectual property. Another sector that is ripe for consolidation is light commercial vehicles, where Renault and Fiat Chrysler could build a variety of vans in several sizes on common platforms that could be assembled and sold in global markets. Ford Motor Co. and Volkswagen AG began their alliance discussions a year ago by focusing on potential collaboration in light commercial vehicles. Getting Nissan's blessing Fiorani said Renault's CMF architecture, which was jointly developed with Nissan and underpins many of Renault's passenger cars and crossovers, could be used by Fiat Chrysler on a wide variety of vehicles. As an example, he said the CMF could provide a new foundation for at least five Jeep models, including the Renegade, Compass and Cherokee, which now are based on four different platforms. South Africa: Task team to advise on sexual harassment in universities Higher Education and Training Minister Dr Naledi Pandor has appointed a Ministerial Task Team to advise on matters relating to sexual harassment and gender-based violence (GBV) in public universities in South Africa. This follows an open letter written by a group of academics to the Minister in March 2019 highlighting issues of GBV, including sexual harassment. Among the issues raised by academics were lecturers, especially male lecturers, who asked for sexual favours from students for marks. According to the academics, young female academics also get harassed by senior leadership in universities in exchange for job security. In a letter, the academics called on the Department of Higher Education and Training to ensure that steps are implemented to help prevent sexual harassment and sexual violence in university spaces. The academics recommended the following: A special investigation be conducted into the extent of sexual offences directed at both staff and students in the higher education sector; A register of offenders be published on the departments website for all higher education institutions to access and consult before posts are offered to new staff members; Standardising the resources of offices dealing with sexual offences in higher education institutions, taking into account the size of each institution; Blacklist those found guilty of sexual offences to prevent them from joining any institution of higher learning after their guilt is determined; Establishment of a charter of ethics that would be signed by all staff and students who assume positions of leadership in higher education institutions, and Instituting quarterly reports through which all vice-chancellors disclose statistics on sexual offences collected in various institutions. In response to this, Pandor has met with a group of academics to discuss the proposals made. The meeting agreed that addressing sexual harassment and gender-based harm decisively will allow for a focus on fundamental academic questions and restore academic cultures that respect freedom and citizenship of all, Pandor said. The Ministerial Task Team will advise the Minister and the department on the following matters: The effective introduction and implementation of the policy framework to address gender-based violence, with a specific focus on universities; A possible enquiry into sexual harassment, gender-based violence and gender-based harm in the university sector, considering work that has already been carried out; Measures to ensure that sexual offenders do not escape justice and repeat offences in other institutions; Appropriate levels of support to be put in place at public universities; Mechanisms and processes to report on sexual offences in the sector, in line with the policy framework, with a view of improving monitoring and reporting; and Other possible interventions to improve institutional responses to gender-based violence and sexual harassment. The task team will also be requested to identify areas of good practice in reporting and managing gender-based harm and support mechanisms that could be replicated in the sector, and identify policy weaknesses across institutions that may be contributing to failures of institutions to adequately manage sexual harassment and gender-based violence, the Minister said. The nine-member team includes Lisa Vetten, Dr Babalwa Magoqwana, Professor Jackie Dugard, Professor Pumla Gqola, Dr Robert Morrell, Jerome September, Professor Malehoko Tshoaedi, Corinne Knowles, and a Student Representative nominated by the South African Union of Students (SAUS). The task team is appointed for a period of 12 months, starting in June 2019. Policy Framework to address GBV in Post-School Education Meanwhile, in addition to the task teams appointment, the department has released the Policy Framework to address GBV in the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector for public comment. Once in place, the Minister said, the Policy Framework will provide an important foundation for addressing many of the concerns raised by the academics. The vision of the Policy Framework is that everyone has the right to live, study and work freely and safely in PSET institutions without any fear of sexual or gender-based intimidation, harassment, abuse, rape or other forms of sexual/gender-based harm. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. He filed for bankruptcy in Chicago in 1990, and in St. Louis in 2009. Both were Chapter 7 bankruptcies, meaning Boisaubin would surrender his property and assets to pay part of the debt. He was discharged from the St. Louis case after surrendering his property, including a home in suburban Chicago then worth about $250,000, to make payments on a total debt of $443,299 from 29 creditors. After Boisaubin filed suit against the Marianists, the Chicago bankruptcy court was unable to locate the paper records to identify creditors who might want to claim part of any damages Boisaubin could win. But in St. Louis, seven creditors claimed just under $52,915. Only one creditor, a friend who made a personal loan to Boisaubin, objected to the Marianists agreement with the trustee. The court overruled that objection and approved the agreement on Feb. 20. Boisaubin appealed in March, and the trustee reneged on the agreement. UPDATED at 7:30 a.m. with details on recovery of man's body A dive team recovered the body of a 20-year-old man Tuesday on the Cuivre River, where he died after two boats carrying groups of friends collided on Memorial Day. Police haven't yet released the name of the man who died. Authorities also arrested a 24-year-old man for boating while intoxicated. The boats crashed about 7 p.m. Monday near Old Monroe, about 40 miles north of St. Louis. The crash site was in St. Charles County, near the Lincoln County line. Trooper Dallas Thompson of the Missouri Highway Patrol said the patrol's dive team recovered the man's body about 12:20 p.m. Tuesday. The river there was about 25 feet deep, swollen from recent flooding, he said. Thompson said search crews used sonar equipment. The water was murky and strewn with debris, Thompson said. Thompson said five people were in one boat. Two people, including the man who died, were in the other boat. They were all friends, Thompson said. "They were playing around and the boats got too close and collided," Thompson said. EUREKA The Rev. Joe Kempf wants to keep the claw marks the bear carved in the wall of his parish school. Theyre a reminder of the awe Gods creation can inspire, Kempf said Tuesday evening just after officials safely removed a young black bear from a bathroom at Most Sacred Heart grade school. We look upon it as one more of Gods creatures drawn here, Kempf said. We got to see a little bit of creation up close. The fuzzy brown omnivore was first spotted early Tuesday in a Eureka subdivision, then again rummaging through trash cans downtown. It may have been looking for food, and it may have been displaced by flooding in the forests along the nearby Meramec River. But by midday, it found God. A handful of staff at the parish school near Interstate 44 and Highway 109 were cleaning out classrooms for the summer and had propped open a back door at about 11:30 a.m. Kempf said it wasnt open for more than two minutes. But it was long enough for the bear. ST. LOUIS COUNTY A man died Monday afternoon after he turned into the path of an oncoming car on Manchester Road in Wildwood. Charles M. Wilcox, 60, was fatally injured in the 3:20 p.m. collision at Manchester and Pond roads. Police say Wilcox was from the Ballwin area. The Missouri Highway Patrol said Wilcox was driving west on Manchester Road in a 2005 Ford Focus. As he turned left to go south onto Pond Road, he drove into the path of an oncoming vehicle, an eastbound 2014 Hyundai Elantra, said Trooper Dallas Thompson of the Missouri Highway Patrol. The Elantra was driven by a 37-year-old woman from Wildwood. She suffered moderate injuries. Wilcox died at a hospital. Both were wearing seat belts, police say. John McLaughlin was arrested and charged after the discovery. As gruesome as the crime scene was, one challenge facing prosecutors now is that investigators have been unable to determine a cause of death, partly because of decomposition. McLaughlins defense lawyers, during a May 3 evidence hearing, fought to exclude the GPS and cellphone evidence from this weeks trial, arguing that police improperly seized the evidence. They said McLaughlin revoked consent to search his property several hours into a voluntary interview with detectives when he said, I dont want to do any of this, and asked for a lawyer. If convicted, McLaughlin faces a life prison term. Circuit Judge Nancy Watkins McLaughlin, who is not related to the family, is presiding over the trial. McLaughlins lawyer, Scott Rosenblum, has said the case is very defensible. Linda McLaughlin had filed for divorce in December 2014 after 35 years of marriage. The couple had been scheduled to appear in court in the divorce case three days after she disappeared. She was asking for their house and $2,000 a month to cover living expenses; her husband had moved out of the home. We will continue to be one option for Missouri patients, as we always have. While the state of Missouri is waging a war against its abortion services and providers, the Hope Clinic remains committed to the patients of Missouri, she said in a statement on Tuesday. We will do everything in our power to make sure that further barriers associated with seeking abortion care out of state are lessened to the best of our ability. Illinois, led by Democrats, has reported more out-of-state abortion patients in recent years as its Republican-led neighbors have further restricted abortions. Meanwhile, the ACLU of Missouri submitted a referendum to the Missouri secretary of state's office on Tuesday in an effort to repeal the abortion law that Parson, a Republican, signed last week. The ACLU and its allies will have to collect more than 100,000 signatures and turn them into the secretary of state before Aug. 28, when the law is supposed to go into effect. Democrat Mark Osmack has filed paperwork to run against state Sen. Andrew Koenig, R-Manchester in the 15th Senate District, which includes much of west St. Louis County. Osmack made an unsuccessful bid for Congress against Republican Ann Wagner in 2018. Rep. Deb Lavender, D-Kirkwood, told the Post-Dispatch Tuesday that she decided over the weekend to run for the seat, setting up a Democratic primary if both she and Osmack stay in the race. Rep. Chrissy Sommer, R-St. Charles, has filed to run in the St. Charles County district currently held by fellow Republican Sen. Bill Eigel of Weldon Spring. Prior to winning a seat in the House, Roberts was a prosecutor in the St. Louis circuit attorneys office. In the House, Roberts has been an advocate for criminal justice reform and economic development. Social justice and economic development will continue to be a central focus in my campaign and, if I am elected, in my work as a state senator, Roberts said. During my time as a prosecutor, I saw firsthand how the system can ensnare those who come into contact with it, especially low-income offenders and people of color. It was an opportunity to witness history being made by working with lawmakers on bills such as the Global Partnership for Education, the Maternal and Child Health Act and the Global Fund working to eradicate AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. More organizations need to welcome youth into advocacy and not allow age to serve as an exclusion factor. My experience as a young advocate has been more than exciting and definitely rewarding. Members of Congress, the public and the news media always seem interested to listen to what we have to say. Early on in my journey, even though I seemed to be too tiny in an oversized black suit seated in an extra-large meeting chair, everyone was open to hearing my point of view and having a discussion. Neither my size nor my age seemed to bother them. My message to young would-be activists: Get involved in an organization today, one that is working for a cause you care about. Research shows that one of the best predictors of intention to vote is actual civic engagement. Civically engaged youth go on to vote, get involved in policy-making, take ownership of problems and are catalysts for change. We are planning for that future and our role in it as a region. Not only is NGA building its new west campus here in St. Louis, the agency already is working with our public schools and with higher education institutions on programs to educate and train the next generation of talent to work at NGA and at geospatial companies throughout the region. There are already over 27,000 jobs in our region tied to the geospatial industry, and we expect that number to grow significantly in the years to come. Thats why its so great to see NGA, our schools and universities, and organizations like LaunchCode already putting in the work today to develop the talent pipeline we will need for the jobs of tomorrow. In addition to talent development, St. Louis has been working with regional and state leaders as well as our economic development agencies, academic institutions and the business and startup community to create the ecosystem necessary for us to be the nations center for geospatial excellence. We are well on our way, with major events taking place in the near future and for years to come. Next week, San Antonio will host the countrys largest gathering of geospatial industry, academia and government stakeholders at the annual GEOINT Symposium. Who needs Disneyland's Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge when you have this new theme park offering: a re-creation of the 1997 fatal car crash of Diana, Princess of Wales. No, we're not kidding. The attraction can be found at the new National Enquirer Live! when the park opens Friday. It's located in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., just a few miles from Dolly Parton's Dollywood. Among other exhibits related to stories the tabloid has covered over the years, guests can look down at a computer-generated 3-D model of Paris, with the path of Diana's car shown via animation, according to the Daily Beast. "It's projected, and you see the buildings and everything in a 3-D presentation," amusements impresario Robin Turner told the website. "And it shows the pathway as she left the Ritz hotel, and the paparazzi chasing her, and the bang-flash that we think blinded the driver - and how it happened. In Pakistan decades of economic mismanagement and dependence on foreign aid and loans have led to the government being forced to accept harsh terms in return for another financial bailout by the IMF (International Monetary Fund). To get these last chance loans, Pakistan has promised to raise tax collections by 30 percent and, even worse, cut government spending by nearly as much. This will anger the Pakistani military and the many groups that currently benefit from the deficit spending Pakistan has managed to get away with for so long. Not complying means national bankruptcy, years of economic chaos and much worse conditions than the IMF is demanding now. What caused all this was years of poor Pakistani fiscal policies that made it difficult for Pakistan to obtain large enough bailouts from the IMF. Other lenders (Gulf Arabs and China) were the only alternative. This time emergency loans from their last remaining wealthy allies (China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE) were not enough. China had conditions attached to its loan and Pakistan ultimately found that it still needed billions from the IMF. That has been avoided because this time it only happens if Pakistan actually does something about the corruption and deficit spending that is causing the chronic cash shortage. The IMF also wants Pakistan to sell (privatize) the money-losing national steel company and the national airline. Both are politically important because they provide lots of jobs for government supporters and are a source of cash for corrupt deals. Another corrupt practice is tolerating the wealthiest people to avoid paying taxes. Only one percent of the population pays taxes and few of the local rich do so. Another major source of tax dodgers is military leaders who receive a lot of tainted (from corrupt deals) money. The military spending will decrease because the Americans have halted all military aid. The IMF also notes that some of the major loan deals with China have terms that were never made public and even the IMF is unable to find out what is going on there. The main cause of these frequent appeals to the IMF is widely accepted; the Pakistani military gets too much of the government budget. The American decision to cut military aid to Pakistan was a big deal because since about 2005 that aid has accounted for nearly 20 percent of the Pakistani defense budget. The U.S. aid has declined since 2010 (when it was $2 billion), but was still significant because the current annual Pakistani defense budget is nearly $9 billion. So an extra billion or so from the Americans made a difference. While Pakistan can turn to China or Russia for all its weapons needs, it wont have access to the best nor will it get any gifts. China and Russia expect to be paid for military goods. Meanwhile, the Pakistani army gets 47 percent of the defense budget, the air force 20 percent and the navy 11 percent. The American aid was free, not a loan. The Arab and Chinese are offering loans, not gifts and this has put much more pressure on Pakistan to change is corrupt and wasteful economic policies. Pakistan talks about the Indian Threat and, in terms of numbers, there is an Indian threat because India spends nearly $60 billion a year on defense, the fifth largest defense budget on the planet (behind the United States, China, Russia and Saudi Arabia). Pakistan barely makes the top 20. Indian spending is 3.3 percent of GDP while Pakistan is 2.7 percent. In 2016 Pakistan boosted defense spending 15 percent but was unable to sustain that growth rate. For the last five years, Pakistan has, on average, increased its defense spending about 10 percent a year. Neighboring India spends more than five times as much. Chinas defense spending ($215 billion) is the largest in the region and second largest in the world. Defense spending in South Asia has risen nearly 50 percent since 2001. The large portion of Pakistani government spending going to the military is under growing criticism inside Pakistan, mainly because Pakistan lags way behind India and China when it comes to spending on education, infrastructure and public health. The Pakistani government tries to justify the high defense spending by pointing out that since 2011 Pakistan has suffered $57 billion in economic losses because of Islamic terrorism. That is tragic but the neighbors (and the United States) point out that those losses are largely because Pakistan has supported Islamic terrorists since the 1970s, and continues to do so even though many of these Islamic terror groups have declared war on Pakistan. The IMF is well aware of all this and Pakistani Finance Ministry officials cannot expect much help (unless you count the usual threats) from the military in persuading the IMF to look the other way and bail out the profligate Pakistani military once more. The Pakistani military is particularly unhelpful when it is pointed out that substantial Pakistani economic opportunities have been banned by the military for no good reason. Case in point is allowing free trade with India and Indian access, via Pakistan, to Afghanistan and Central Asia. The access fees would generate huge income for Pakistan but the Pakistani generals will not allow it because the main justification for the huge Pakistani military budget is the imaginary Indian threat. Pakistan And Taliban Since late 2018 the Americans have been negotiating directly with the Afghan Taliban to work out a mutually agreeable peace deal. Pakistan plays an important if unacknowledged, role in these peace talks. For example, Pakistan is behind the Taliban refusal to negotiate with the Afghan government. The Taliban finally agreed that it would negotiate with the Afghan government, but only after the Americans agree to pull all their troops out of Afghanistan and actually do so. This Taliban attitude is, for most Afghans, another reason for not believing or supporting the Taliban. The Taliban insist on negotiating a deal with the United States first, to get all foreign troops (unless they work for Pakistan) out of the country. Many Afghans remember that this was similar to what happened after the Russians withdrew in 1989 and left behind a pro-Russian national government that had enough support to hold Kabul and some other parts of the country. The civil war that followed that is still going on. During the early 1990s most of the Afghan rebels were still based in Pakistan where, since the early 1980s, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Arab states financed refugee camps and religious schools that taught hatred of non-Moslems. This led to Pakistan creating the Taliban in 1994 by recruiting refugee Pushtun students from these religious schools (Taliban translates to students), arming them and providing logistical support and plenty of reinforcements from the Afghan refugee camps. The Taliban were, and still are, the Pakistani faction in Afghanistan. The Taliban are seen as repeating the same mistake they made in the mid-1990s by agreeing with other rebel factions that negotiation with the pro-Russian Afghan government was not possible and it was preferable to fight each other to determine who would dominate Afghanistan. This is what Pakistan wanted and, by the late 1990s, their Taliban faction was on their way to defeating all the other factions. That job wasnt finished when September 11, 2001 came around and the Americans backed the remaining anti-Taliban coalition (the Northern Alliance of non-Pushtun tribes). The Taliban have never controlled all of Afghanistan and few Afghans believe they ever will. But as long as drug gangs finance the Taliban (who provide security for heroin production and smuggling) and Pakistan provides sanctuary in Pakistan as well as technical support, the Taliban will survive as a major nuisance in Afghanistan. The Russian supported Afghan government lost Russian financial and military aid after the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991. This left that government much less able to defend itself. In response, several tribal and rebel factions battled for control of Afghanistan and the capital Kabul. The Taliban was better organized, more fanatic and, most importantly, receiving all manner of logistic, training and military advisor support from Pakistan. Meanwhile, the former holy warriors among the tribal factions no longer had the support of Pakistan based camps and Islamic (mainly Saudi) charities operating there. Some of those factions agreed to work for Pakistan and were either integrated with the Taliban or, like the Haqqani Network, remained independent and useful to Pakistan. The Taliban soon took Kabul but was never able to defeat all the other factions, especially the non-Pushtun ones. Two decades later Afghans regard Pakistan as the foreign invader to worry about, not the American and NATO troops. The Taliban have even less credibility (as Afghan patriots) now than they did in the 1990s. The current Taliban as seen, by most Afghans, as a bunch of hired guns working for drug gangs as mercenaries. As long as the Taliban refuse to first negotiate with the current pro-West government, most Afghans will regard the Taliban as the main obstacle to peace. The reality is that the current war in Afghanistan has been going on since 1979. That is four decades of fighting caused by outsiders intervening militarily in Afghan affairs. First, it was Russia backed Afghan communists ousting a pro-West monarchy and replacing it with a communist dictatorship. That triggered violence by many tribes hostile to foreign influence and that is a problem that continues. Many tribes, or at least tribal elders, are unsure if democracy is an improvement over the old monarchy. The tribes do agree that a religious dictatorship is unwelcome, especially after the Taliban attempt to make it work in the late 1990s. Up until 1979 the two century old Afghan monarchy had always been dominated by Pushtuns and the kings were usually Pushtun because Pushtuns were not only the largest minority (40 percent of the population) but, across the border in Pakistan, there were twice as many Pushtuns. However in Pakistan, the Pushtuns were a small minority of the much larger Pakistani population and kept on a short leash by the non-tribal majority that has always run Pakistan. It is true Afghans have long (for thousands of years) been hostile to outsiders and the outsiders feared most were the ones next door (especially many Indian and Iranian Empires.) This history doesnt resonate with most Westerners but it is current events for most Afghans, who often consider other Afghans (from distant tribes or ethnic groups) as outsiders. Currently, the Westerners are seen as less of a threat because all they want is no sanctuary for Islamic terrorists and no drug production. The majority of Afghans can agree with both of those goals as well as the incoming Western economic and military aid. The Afghan Taliban are suffering fragmentation. More Taliban factions are opposing Pakistani and/or Iranian control as well as cooperation with (and financial support from) the drug gangs. The one thing nearly all Taliban agree on is getting rid of foreign interference. The problem is deciding which foreigners are the biggest threat to Afghanistan. The majority of Afghans agree it is Pakistan and therein lies the main obstacle to Taliban domination of Afghanistan. Because of their past and current behavior, most Afghans see the Taliban as the problem, not the solution. Until recently Pakistan would not even admit it was continuing to directly interfere with what happens in Afghanistan. Now Pakistan sees their goal of having their Taliban once more the dominant power in Afghanistan close to reality. Many Pakistanis are not so sure this is the kind of reality Pakistan needs. The United States has long maintained the possibility of working out a peace deal with the Afghan Taliban. The major problem with that is getting Pakistan to cooperate. The Afghan Taliban cannot make any deals without Pakistani cooperation. Then there is the larger problem of such a deal turning control of Afghanistan over to a coalition of Afghan drug gangs assisted by Pakistan, Iran and local Islamic conservatives (who ban education for women and generally unpopular lifestyle restrictions). Russia and Pakistan believe this would be the best possible peace deal. Most American and Afghans disagree. So does India and many Pakistanis unhappy with their military-dominated government. Then there are the traditional (usual) how to negotiate with infidels rules used by Islamic terrorist groups and some governments dominated by Islamic conservatives. These rules stress the use of lies and deception because the Islamic scripture mentions it so it must be the only way to go. This approach has been very consistently used by Islamic terror groups, and the fact that the Afghan Taliban are actually a front for Pakistan makes no difference because Pakistan is increasingly dominated by their armed forces who have, since the 1980s, been using (if not all believing in) Islamic terror groups against their real or imagined enemies. The drug gangs, which also depend on Pakistan to stay in business and are largely run by Pushtuns, will go along with whatever Pakistan wants as long as drug trade is not trifled with. Despite recent Pakistani pledges to cease any involvement with Afghan internal conflicts, Iranians, Indians and Afghans generally agree that Pakistan has no interest in abandoning its use of certain Islamic terror groups (like the Taliban) to put pressure on neighbors. This is considered a problem for everyone, especially the Afghans. Worse, few people in the region (especially Afghans and Iranians) expect the Taliban to agree to a ban on Taliban controlled Afghanistan again becoming a sanctuary for Islamic terrorists. Many Afghans are wondering why the Americans are even negotiating with the Taliban, who have long demonstrated that they cannot be trusted. Iranians are particularly wary of this as they see the Taliban as inherently anti-Iranian. Iran also has issues with the Afghan drug gangs, who continue to produce, with Pakistani cooperation, all that heroin, opium and hashish. Much of it gets out of Afghanistan via Iran and that has turned the Iran/Afghan border into a bloody battle zone. May 27, 2019: In northwest Pakistan, across the border in eastern Afghanistan (Nangarhar province) an American UAV used a missile to kill four ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) men who were identified by Afghan troops as Pakistani. The Afghans often return the bodies of Pakistani Islamic terrorists killed in near the border because these Pakistanis are often from Pushtun tribes with families on both sides of the border. Returning the bodies is also a public reminder of how Pakistanis are still heavily involved in terrorist operations in Afghanistan. ISIL has long maintained a presence in Nangarhar because it is remote and close to the Pakistan border. It is no secret that many ISIL recruits come from Pakistan and that is one reason why ISIL recently announced the establishment of a separate ISIL province in Pakistan. Elsewhere in northwest Pakistan (North Waziristan), Islamic terrorists attacked an army checkpoint killing one soldier and wounding four. An earlier incident in North Waziristan saw a group of PTM (Pashtun Tahafuz Movement or Pashtun Protection Movement) members, including two Pushtun MPs (members of parliament), fired on by soldiers at a checkpoint. The PTM members say their vehicles were fired on as they passed an army checkpoint. The army says there was some kind of dispute that got violent. Five soldiers claim they were injured by the PTM members. The PTM survivors insist there was no violence until the soldiers opened fire killing three PTM members and wounding ten (including one of the MPs). Nine of the PTM members were arrested, including the two MPs. Normally the PTM is non-violent although recently some PTM demonstrations in Karachi have turned violent. Pushtuns are 15 percent of the Pakistan population and most live in the northwest. The Pushtun have long complained about poor treatment by the government. The PTM is mainly about the Pakistani Pushtuns uniting to oppose the mistreatment of Pushtuns in general. While the PTM calls for peaceful demonstrations the military decided this month that the PTM is a threat and thus considered a hostile opposition organization. The main reason for this was that the peaceful demonstrations of the PTM were attracting more non-Pushtuns who not only agreed with the PTM complaints against the military but pointed out that the military is hostile to any Pakistani who speaks up and denounces the many misdeeds of the Pakistani military. May 25, 2019: In Bangladesh, the UN began issuing ID cards to Burmese Rohingya refugees in mid-2018 and so far have issued the IDs to about a third of the 740,000 Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. These IDs make it easier for Rohingya to return to Burma because the ID is proof that they were pushed out of Burma by the army and vigilantes in the first place. But few Rohingya are going back, even with the ID card. Their homeland in northern Burma (Rakhine state) is still too dangerous for any Rohingya. The Burmese government is being threatened with sanctions but army dominated government is not impressed. The military knows that China is eager to be Burmas main ally, to the exclusion of Western nations. India still works with Burma, to deal with tribal rebels who operate along their common border. Thailand is another neighbor not bothered by the Rohingya situation. May 24, 2019: India has banned Bangladeshi Islamic terror group JMB from operating in India in any way. Indian counter-terror organizations will now actively seek out any JMB activity inside India and act against it. Groups like JMB seek to quietly establish sanctuaries in neighboring countries and plan for attacks in Bangladesh. To that end JMB is quite law-abiding and discreet in India. But such groups often become a local threat and banning JMB improves relations with Bangladesh. May 23, 2019: In northwest India (Kashmir), police cornered a popular local Islamic terrorist leader, Zakir Musa, and killed him when he refused to surrender. The next day thousands attended his funeral. Zakir Musa was 25 years old and had been an Islamic terrorists since he was a teenager. Musa only had about a dozen followers but he was a local kid and Pakistani media played that up. But since a major Islamic terror attack in February the security forces in Kashmir have been on the offensive in a big way and have killed or captured nearly 200 of the local Islamic terrorists. That is major damage. In addition, the Indian threats to escalate with more air and artillery attacks into Pakistan have caused a slowdown in Pakistani efforts to sneak more Islamic terrorists into Kashmir. Pakistan conducted another test of its Shaheen II IRBM (Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile), has a range of 1,500 kilometers and can carry a nuclear warhead to any part of India. Shaheen II entered service in 2008 after nearly a decade of development. This is a 25 ton, two-stage solid fuel missile. It is deployed on about fifty wheeled TELs (transporter erector launchers.) Pakistan has developed a larger (2,500 kilometers range) Shaheen III but this one has not entered service yet. May 19, 2019: Pakistan, responding to Chinese complaints that about lack of security, has agreed to add more troops to the security forces already assigned to guard over 300 Chinese projects in Pakistan and the 15,000 foreigners (mainly Chinese) who work on them. The existing force has over 15,000 personnel with 9,000 being soldiers and the rest local para-military forces. This will be in addition to the special naval force that protects navy facilities in Gwadar and the waters off Pakistan. This force has blunted threats of violence against the Chinese but has not prevented four attacks on Chinese projects and personnel since late 2018. The Chinese are running out of patience. In mid-2017 Pakistan also agreed to build a walled and restricted residential area near the port of Gwadar to house up to half a million Chinese that will eventually be working in Pakistan. The Chinese construction work on the new Pakistani Gwadar port facilities are visible to anyone on the ground or flying by and in 2017 it was noticed that some features of the new port and airport facilities are clearly intended for military use. India has long claimed China (despite denials) was planning to use Gwadar as a base for Chinese warships and naval aircraft. Pakistan never had a problem with Chinese military using Gwadar as it helps keep local troublemakers out. Pakistan has assured China that there would be no terrorist violence against Chinese working on upgrading the port of Gwadar and land links north to China. Pakistan is willing to pay a high price to get CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) done because it means Pakistan has an ally against Iran and even Western powers that might have some violent disagreement with Pakistan. Best of all China is picking up most of the $60 billion cost. In early 2017 China and Pakistan finally signed the agreement that granted China a 40 year lease on new facilities China is building in the southwestern port of Gwadar. The lease grants China most (over 80 percent) of the revenue brought in by port and free trade zone operations. China usually imports its own workers from China to do most of the work on projects like this. By 2022 China expects to have about half a million Chinese in Pakistan, some of them with their families. The easiest way to provide protection is to have most of them live in a heavily guarded and restricted access area. Gwadar is a key part of CPEC and it has the misfortune of being in a province (Baluchistan) that does not want to be part of Pakistan. China and the Pakistanis try to ignore this by not reporting on non-Islamic terror attacks on CPEC construction projects. The government has long been accused of suppressing news of tribal separatists in Baluchistan attacking government targets and especially those related to CPEC. The separatists claim they regularly carry out attacks on CPEC construction projects, but most of their attacks are still directed at Pakistani security forces and government facilities. May 18, 2019: Pakistan has, so far this month, arrested at least 30 Chinese men and accused them of enticing or kidnaping Pakistani women to China and sell them to Chinese men to be wives. There a growing shortage of Chinese women in China that has created a market for young foreign women. China's "one child" policy of the last few decades and the ability to determine the sex of the child before birth led to more (20 percent more) boys than girls being born in China. There's a growing shortage of potential brides, and desperate Chinese men are willing to buy a kidnapped girl from Pakistan (or anywhere else). This crime has become common in most nations neighboring China. May 17, 2019: In northeast India (Nagaland), Indian and Burmese troops are cooperating to eliminate Naga rebel bases in the Sagaing Region on the Burmese side of the border. The Sagaing region has long been used as a refuge for Indian Naga rebels but this year Indian and Burmese forces have been coordinating efforts to shut down the border camps for good, or at least for a long time. In March Indian and Burmese swept both sides of the border for weeks but later discovered that, while this hurt the Naga rebels it did not destroy the rebel groups, who returned to the border area once the troops had ceased their activity. This time the Burmese troops are going to patrol the area for several months, or as long as it takes for India to certify that the Naga rebels have suffered serious and long-term damage. Indian troops will also be active on their side of the border to ensure that the Naga rebels, both the Indian and Burmese ones, have nowhere to go and that situation will last so long (several months) that many of rebels will desert and return to their villages. Other rebel groups will be cornered by Indian or Burmese troops and destroyed. Most of the Naga people are Indian but some live in the Burmese far north Sagaing Region and belong to the NSCN (National Socialist Council of Nagaland) which wants to form an independent Nagaland including Indian and Burmese territory and Naga people from both countries. Many of the camps being sought in Sagaing belong to the NSCN-K faction of the NSCN. At the start of 2019, there were believed to be about 5,000 active rebels in NSCN with about ten percent of them Burmese Naga. This new operation seeks to reduce the size of NSCN by a significant amount. How much damage will be done wont be known until the end of 2019. These operations are not just going after the NSCN but also smaller groups like the Ulfa-I, NDFB and Manipur rebels. The Naga are actually about two million people from a collection of tribes that share many ethnic (Burma-Tibetan) characteristics and traditions. About ten percent of the Naga live in Burma but most of the rebel violence occurs in Indian Nagaland. For years the Naga rebels have used bases in Burma to train and rest before returning to fight in India. After much diplomatic pressure, the Burmese army finally went after the Naga rebel camps and have now shut most of them down. The Naga rebels do not fight the Burmese soldiers but always retreat. For this new operation, Burmese soldiers have orders to pursue and capture or kill any rebels they encounter. If the rebels head for India the Indian Army is alerted and moves troops into position to confront any rebels crossing the border to escape Burmese troops. May 15, 2019: Worldwide ISIL has taken credit for several recent terror attacks, especially one in late April that killed nearly 300 people in Sri Lanka, and used that to explain why it is now establishing two more provinces. One will be in Pakistan and the other will be in India. Afghanistan (and much of Central Asia) has been Khorasan province for five years. This sort of thing is mostly about maintaining a prominent media presence. ISIL is largely an enterprise that exists because it can reach a wide audience with its message (basically join or die) that also allows wealthy Moslems to send cash instead. ISIL has had a hard time making any progress in India and has not done much better in Pakistan or Central Asia. May 13, 2019: In southwest Pakistan (Baluchistan), the Pakistani Taliban took responsibility for a bomb that went off outside a mosque, killing four policemen and wounding nine bystanders. Bangladesh has halted issuing visas to most Pakistanis, especially those who are government employees, in particular diplomats. Bangladesh accuses Pakistan of supporting Islamic terrorism in Bangladesh and has a growing body of evidence to back this up. Pakistan makes matters worse by denying any involvement in Islamic terrorism. Pakistan has long refused to pay attention to the successful anti-terrorism measures implemented in Bangladesh. Pakistan does not like to be reminded of anything to do with Bangladesh, which used to be East Pakistan and part of a much larger Pakistan. But the Bangladeshis rebelled in the early 1970s and West Pakistan (all that is now left of the original Pakistan) was unable to put down the uprising. After that defeat, Pakistan adopted Islamic radicalism as a new policy and Islamic terrorism as a weapon. Bangladesh made peace with India (which supported the rebels) and discouraged Islamic radicalism. Despite the growing popularity (among Moslems) of Islamic radicalism in the last three decades, Bangladesh has been largely free of it. May 11, 2019: In southwest Pakistan (Baluchistan), at least three Baluchi separatists attacked a hotel in the Chinese controlled port city of Gwadar, leaving a policeman, four civilians and three attackers dead. The Pakistani government has been reluctant to release details of this attack. May 10, 2019: Pakistan told Iran that joint work on a natural gas pipeline from Iran to Pakistan had to be suspended because of U.S. sanctions. May 7, 2019: In Pakistan (Lahore), the Pakistani Taliban took credit for a bomb going off near a major Sufi shrine. The blast killed ten and wounded 24. This shrine had additional security because of a 2010 attack that killed 40. Sufi have become a favorite target of Sunni Islamic terror groups in Pakistan (and worldwide). This is a relatively recent development. When Pakistan was created in 1947 the Sufi sect of Islam was dominant in Pakistan, but since the 1980s more militant forms of Islamic have proliferated with the support of the Pakistani military. This was fostered by missionaries and money from Saudi Arabia, who preached intolerance and violence against non-Moslems and Moslems who are not extreme enough. This extremist form of Islam has been a major factor in preventing India and Pakistan from making peace. According to Islamic radicals, Hindus are the worst kind of infidel (non-Moslem) because, unlike Christians and Jews, they have no common religious roots with Islam. Actually, Hindus do, as there was a lot of Hindu influence in Arabia when Islam was founded 1,400 years ago, but the founders of Islam choose not to openly recognize their Hindu roots. Thus the harder line on Hindus. In Pakistan, the growing number of Islamic terrorist attacks on non-Sunni Moslems (especially Shia and Sufi) is very unpopular with most Pakistanis, even those who are not Shia or Sufi. About ten percent of Pakistanis are Shia (mostly) or Sufi but because of the long history of Sufism in Pakistan, there are dozens of major Sufi holy places (usually tombs of prominent Sufis) there that attract many visitors from Pakistan and foreign countries. Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian falsely accused of blasphemy, has finally been able to leave Pakistan and get to Canada where her husband and children have already received asylum. Her husband was able to reach Canada in late January. Bibi has been given permission to leave but the Pakistan government kept stalling on actually letting her to actually leave. Bibi and her husband were long held in an undisclosed location (not a jail) in Karachi. Over the last decade, several Pakistani courts found her not-guilty but Islamic radicals saw that as secular courts meddling in a religious matter and continued to call for her death. Moslems in Western nations threatened violence if Asia Bibi was granted asylum. Until early 2019 the Pakistani government refused to let Asia Bibi leave the country despite rumors that they had finally relented and Asia Bibi and her husband quietly left Pakistan in late January and arrived in Canada. The U.S. was also in the process of passing a special law granting Asia Bibi asylum. Two of the Bibi children were already in Canada and the parents made it clear they wanted to join them. May 1, 2019: In eastern India (Maharashtra state), a Maoist roadside bomb went off and killed fifteen paramilitary police. This was a rare success for the Maoists who have been increasingly on the defensive. This attack was part of a Maoist effort to disrupt national elections. The effort failed, as have similar efforts in the past decade. Maoists used to be able to disrupt voting in areas where they were active but the years of intense efforts to shut down the communist rebels have been working. At the UN China halted a decade of blocking efforts to declare notorious Pakistani Islamic terrorist Masood Azhar an international terrorist. Azar was responsible for the 2011 Mumbai (India) terrorist attack and a more recent February suicide bombing in Kashmir that left 40 Indian police dead. India has plenty of evidence that Pakistan continues to protect Islamic terror groups that only attack other nations (mainly India and Afghanistan). While Pakistan was grateful that China used their UN veto to block justified counter-terrorism measures for so long eventually China got tired of it. China was also trying to persuade Pakistan to back off on sponsoring Islamic terrorist groups that were willing to attack Pakistani enemies. Pakistan refused to go along with the Chinese requests so China is sending the message in stronger terms. This move wins China some goodwill from Afghanistan, India and many other nations who have suffered from this Pakistani use of Islamic terrorists. Within days of the UN declaring Azhar a terrorist, Pakistan froze his bank accounts and banned him from leaving the country. Azhar was not arrested nor were any moves made against JeM (Jaish e Mohammad), the terror groups Azhar leads. JeM has become the primary target of counter-terror operations in Indian Kashmir. So far this year 80 Islamic terrorists have been killed in Kashmir and a third of these belonged to JeM. Although JeM has been around since 2000 it only became a major Islamic terrorist threat in the last few years. April 27, 2019: I n northwest Pakistan (North Waziristan), Islamic terrorists planted a bomb at an army checkpoint overnight before troops arrived to man the checkpoint during daylight hours. The explosion killed three troops and wounded another. Passengers could be able to travel nonstop from Auckland to New York when Air New Zealand takes delivery of its new Boeing Dreamliner jets. The national carrier announced today it was buying eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner jets worth $US2.7 billion ($4 billion) to replace its early 777 models, with completely refurbished cabins. The 330-seat Dreamliners are up to 25 percent more fuel efficient than their predecessors, meaning direct flights to the United States' east coast could soon be on the cards. Air New Zealand chief executive Christopher Luxon hoped they would pave the way for direct flights between Auckland and New York. "We're really, really committed and determined to see if we can get to New York. The timing will ... need to be worked through with our partner United [Airlines] in that regard. As to what fleet and configuration, that's now the big decision." Boeing has been beset by safety issues recently, with two of its 737 MAX jets involved in fatal crashes in less than six months. But Christopher says the decision to stick with the aircraft manufacturer, rather than going with competitor Airbus, was logical. "We're very fortunate that both with the aircraft manufacturers, be they Boeing and Airbus, certainly with the engine manufacturers, be they Rolls Royce or GE, we've actually got great options in both cases. "We've got to look at where we're going to fly the aircraft today, where they'll be going into the future. The combination of the 787-10 with the GEnx engine was just perfect." Part of Air New Zealand's long haul fleet has had to be grounded for expensive repairs because of problems with Rolls Royce engines. For this latest batch of aircraft, Rolls Royce missed out on the lucrative deal, with Air New Zealand instead opting to buy engines from American company, General Electric Aviation. Christopher says GE was just a better fit for the new Boeing Dreamliners. "It was a very competitive process and it was a very compelling offer we got from GE as a result ... they were very keen to win this job." Boeing's vice president of commercial sales and marketing for Asia Pacific Christy Reese said the 787-10 aircraft set new benchmarks for fuel efficiency. "This aeroplane is the most efficient wide-body aeroplane in service today and will pay immediate dividends to Air New Zealand." Aviation expert Professor Graham Hunt says the decision to replace Rolls Royce engines with GE could be seen as a snub - but it was a smart move. "I think it's certainly very costly for Rolls Royce, I think it's very unfortunate that it happened to them. But in terms of Air New Zealand, I think it's a very, very smart move." Air New Zealand wouldn't reveal how much of a discount it got off the $US2.7b price tag for the eight planes, but Prof Hunt said Boeing's recent spate of bad press would have enabled the airline to beat the price down. "I imagine the price that Air New Zealand would have been able to negotiate would have been excellent. It's been a very good customer for a very long time and given the difficulties that Boeing has had over these past few weeks, I think a top-class airline like Air New Zealand will be very, very positive for Boeing." Passengers wanting to travel directly to New York shouldn't pack their bags just yet - the first of the new Dreamliner planes won't be delivered until 2022. -RNZ. Bay of Plenty Our reputable client is on the hunt for experienced boat builders to help out with ongoing projects. Where looking for anyone... View or Apply on GoodWork.co.nz Challenging but rewarding is how a senior cardiologist describes a recent volunteer trip to Fiji. For the past 15 years a group of clinicians, including several from the BOPDHB, has been volunteering their time to provide lifesaving medical treatment in the Pacific Islands as part of the Pacific Island Pacing Service. Cardiologist Jonathan Tisch is a member of the most recent team in early April. Professionally and personally I get a lot out of it and I know the whole team does, says Jonathan. Its very much a team effort. The operating conditions are challenging and the patients are very sick so you learn a lot. It exposes you to different situations and medical conditions. By the same token its personally very rewarding, as youre helping people who otherwise would not be helped. These people have no other options, there is no other pacing service anywhere near them and theyre always incredibly grateful. The team provides critical services such as inserting pacemakers and ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator) which arent provided by the local health service. Twice a year the trip is made to Fiji for a week or ten-day visit to see as many patients as possible. The cost of the trip is covered either by Friends of Fiji or donations from individuals and Rotary. The team comprises a cardiologist, two or three experienced cardiac physiologists and a senior cardiac cath lab nurse. This team works alongside a local Fijian team of senior doctors, nurses and a radiographer. BOPDHB Team Leader and Senior Pacemaker Technologist Sheryl Tait also volunteered her time and expertise on this trip. We are the pacemaker service for the Pacific essentially, says Jonathan. Theres no local service. Thats why weve increased it to twice a year, because the more pacemakers you put in the more follow-up youve got. This trip we saw 87 patients and operated on 14. The focus is on upskilling the local medical team. We make a goal of trying to train the local cardiologists and nurses, he says. Every time we go there the local team is getting better and better. Our aim is to make ourselves redundant, for them to be self-sufficient. The New Zealand team arrived in Nadi on a Sunday afternoon, travelled across to Suva, operated for five days, and then flew out on the following Saturday. We saw some fantastic cases, says Jonathan. One guy was brought in who was getting CPR at the time. If hed come in the day before or the week after we arrived he wouldve died. So there are lives saved, its not only about lifestyle improvement. Its why you get into medicine, its very gratifying. Jonathan thanked all those who were involved. Im very grateful to my colleagues for donating their time, the various charities that support us with airfares and other costs, and the device companies which donate the gear. "Pacemaker manufacturers Medtronic have been particularly good in this regard for a long time. And were grateful for the support of the DHB in allowing us the time off. PIPS is driven by BOPDHB Consultant Cardiologist Dr Dean Boddington who has operated in Fiji and other islands multiple times. A number of other BOPDHB staff have helped out in various capacities on previous trips. The next trip to Fiji is scheduled for September, when the pacemaker team will accompany another which performs open heart operations. Every day at Sunrise communities, youll find chefs hard at work preparing nutritious meals designed to nourish the body. But we know our residents expect and deserve meal options that are more than just nutritious. They also want foods that look and taste great. One of our favorite ways to keep our menus diverse and fresh is the annual Senior Eats Nutritional Challenge. Sunrise chefs from across the U.S. and Canada submit recipes for consideration and finalists are chosen. Senior Eats Nutritional Challenge In April, 3 finalists made the trip to the annual Sunrise Leadership Conference to compete for the title of Sunrise Signature Chef. This years conference was held in Orlando, Florida. The finalists and their signature dishes were: Lye Fung Wong from Sunrise of Aurora, ON, who wowed the judges with her Maple-Orange Glazed Trout with Roasted Fingerling Potatoes and Asparagus. from Sunrise of Aurora, ON, who wowed the judges with her Maple-Orange Glazed Trout with Roasted Fingerling Potatoes and Asparagus. Mickey Averill from Sunrise of Norwood, MA, who served another delicious dish: Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Kale and Corn Slaw. from Sunrise of Norwood, MA, who served another delicious dish: Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Kale and Corn Slaw. Erwin Lazaro from Sunrise of Huntington Beach, CA, who was the winner! His Shiitake Ginger Chicken with Jasmine Rice and Chinese Long Beans earned him the top spot with judges. Meet the 2019 Sunrise Signature Chef Erwin was born and raised in Manila, Philippines. When he came to the United States, he met his first culinary mentor, Romulo Vistro, a former Mess Attendant, Second Class in the U.S. Navy. Erwin started his Sunrise career as a lead cook at Sunrise at Bonita, CA, in 2003. In 2007, he was promoted to Dining Services Coordinator. That year, he met another mentor, Randolph Valdez. Randolph taught him the ins and outs of dining at Sunrise. Today, Erwin is a Cluster Dining Services Coordinator at Sunrise of Huntington Beach. He supports seven Sunrise communities in Orange County. His service to Sunrise residents is one of accomplishment and distinction. He has: promoted five lead cooks to Dining Service Coordinators received the Leadership and Service Award in both 2014 and 2015 named a Regional Coordinator of the Year in 2017 received the Coordinator Joy in Service Award in 2017 earned the Dining Excellence Award in 2018. If youd like to try the recipe that earned Erwin his latest honor, weve included it below. Shiitake Ginger Chicken with Jasmine Rice and Chinese Long Beans Serves 4 Shiitake Ginger Chicken 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast, trimmed of excess fat cup cornstarch cup flour 1 tbsp. garlic powder tsp. white pepper canola oil Preheat the oven to 350F. Combine the cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, and pepper in a shallow pan. Cut the chicken into 4 oz. portions and pound to an even thickness. Dredge the chicken in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off the excess. Cover the bottom of a wide saute pan with canola oil. Add the chicken and cook on both sides until golden brown. Remove the chicken and place in a baking dish. Set aside. Shiitake Ginger Mixture 6 oz. shiitake mushrooms, julienned 1 tbsp. peeled and grated ginger 1 clove fresh garlic, minced 3 cups chicken stock Add the mushrooms, ginger, and garlic to the saute pan. Cook over high heat until mushrooms are tender. Add the chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and reduce for five minutes. Strain the broth. Pour the liquid over the chicken. Reserve the mushroom ginger mixture. Place the chicken in the oven to finish cooking to an internal temperature of 165F. Jasmine Rice and Chinese Long Beans 1 tbsp. olive oil lb. Chinese long beans, trimmed and cut into 3 pieces, blanched 1 orange bell pepper, seeded and quartered 2 to 3 cups cooked jasmine rice cup slivered almonds, toasted cup sliced green onions Heat the oil in a saute pan over high heat. Add the beans and peppers. Cook quickly until slightly blistered. Remove from the heat and set aside. To serve: Spoon the rice onto a plate. Top with the chicken and a spoonful of the broth. Arrange the beans, peppers, and reserved mushroom mixture over top. Sprinkle with the almonds and green onions. Sit back and enjoy! A grandmother and great-grandmother show the next generation the importance of decorating the graves of the fallen at Greenwood Cemetery Monday'. Young and old attended the Memorial Day service to honor those who died in the service of their country. "We can't bring them back, but we can honor their sacrifice," said John Sanna, Disrict 4 American Legion Commander during his address to Sidney's Memorial Day audience Monday. Sanna used the story of Major Brent Taylor of Ogden, Utah as an example of the typical soldier who died for his country. Taylor, on his third deployment, was killed in Afghanistan as he served in the U.S. Army. Taylor, like many veterans, said Sanna, served by choice. Prior to leaving for what proved to be his last assignment, friends told Major Taylor he had done enough, imploring him to let others serve that time... Fischer Worked to Include Nebraska in Supplemental Funding Bill WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, the U.S. Senate passed a disaster supplemental bill that included funding for Nebraska flood recovery. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), who worked with her staff to include the state of Nebraska in the bill, applauded its passage and released the following statement: Today the U.S. Senate came together in a bipartisan manner and passed a disaster supplemental bill that includes significant relief for Nebraska. Our families, ag producers, communities, and military installations affected by the catastrophic flooding need assistance and thats why I fought h... Sidney students line up for ice cream cake provided by Dairy Queen during "Challenge Day" at Sidney High School on Thursday. Sidney High School hosted its second annual "Challenge Day" on Thursday morning, sponsored by the Unified Raiders program. The Unified Raiders program brings students together and lets them know they're not alone when experiencing traumatic or emotional events effecting themselves or family members. The program sponsors events that address bullying, suicide prevention, and that encourage members to reach out to other students in times of need. "Challenge Day" rolls out the Be The Change movement, a project dedicated to service and giving back to the community. The project focuses on be aw... Authors of sweet or clean romance share about their lives and their stories. Opinion Policies Editorials are longer opinion pieces that are written by a group of community members recruited across campus who address relevant issues on a local, national and international level. Editorials are research-based. The purpose of the Editorial Board is to promote discussion concerning relevant issues in the community while advising on possible solutions. Topics are chosen via relevancy and interests of the members, which are then discussed by the Editorial Board in order to reach a general consensus concerning the topic or issue. Feedback policy If you have a grievance concerning the content or argument of the Editorial Board, please contact either Opinion Editor Peyton Hamel (peyton.hamel@iowastatedaily.com) or the Editorial Board as a whole (editorialboard@iowastatedaily.com). Those wanting to respond to editorials can also submit a letter to the editor through the Iowa State Daily website or by emailing the letter to Opinion Editor Peyton Hamel (peyton.hamel@iowastatedaily.com) or Editor-in-Chief Sage Smith (sage.smith@iowastatedaily.com). Column Policy Columns are hyper-specific to opinion and are written by only columnists employed by the Iowa State Daily. Columnists are unique because they have a specific writing day and only publish on those writing days. Each column undergoes a thorough editing process ensuring the integrity of the writer, and their claim is maintained while remaining research-based and respectful. Columns may be submitted from community members. These are labelled as Guest Columns. These contain similar research-based content and need to be at least 400 words in length. The following requirements should be met: first and last name, email and relation or position to Iowa State. Emails must be tied to the submitted guest column or it will not be accepted or published. Pseudonyms are prohibited and the writer will be banned from submissions. Read our full Opinion Policies here. Updated on 10/7/2020 Syracuse, N.Y. -- Construction of a nearly $7 million building containing apartments, offices, retail and light manufacturing is scheduled to start this fall in a South Side neighborhood that has not seen significant private investment in many years. Salina 1st developers Emanuel Henderson, Gail Montplaisir and Eli Smith held a ceremonial groundbreaking with state and local officials last week. Montplaisir said they expect to begin site work in early fall, with the building ready for occupancy in late 2020. Plans for the $6.8 million project call for a five-story, 52,000-square-foot building on a little less than two acres of vacant land at 1081 S. Salina St. The state is providing a $1.3 million grant through Gov. Andrew Cuomos regional economic development council initiative. The site is in a low-income area three blocks south of downtown. The Syracuse Industrial Development Agency has agreed to sell the land to Salina 1st LLC for $75,000. It also has granted the project $2.23 million in tax exemptions, consisting of $1.94 million in property tax discounts over 15 years, $147,200 in exemptions on sales taxes on construction materials and a $40,444 exemption from the state mortgage recording tax. Montplaisir said the project would not be possible without the grant and tax exemptions. While downtown has seen a surge of development -- mostly expensive apartments geared toward young professionals -- the South Side has seen no such investment. Henderson, Montplaisir and Smith are hoping to change that. This is kind of the point of the arrow, said Montplaisir, Salina 1sts managing partner and majority owner of Taurus Development Group, which has offices in Washington, D.C., and Syracuse. This is the first private development in this area in decades. The land once was the site of a natural gas storage facility and its soil likely contains some petroleum and chemicals that will be cleaned up under an agreement with the state Department of Environmental Conservation, she said. Rendering shows what the Salina 1st mixed-use facility at 1081 S. Salina St. in Syracuse will look like. Norman Smith Architecture Plans are for the ground floor to contain 23,400 square feet of commercial space consisting of a startup dental laboratory named Access Global, the new headquarters of Hendersons family-owned JHP Industrial Supply Co. and the new headquarters of Smiths contracting business, E. Smith Contractors LLC and his SGTR demolition company. Approximately 4,500 square feet on the ground floor will be available for rent. The ground floor also will contain 5,700 square feet of retail space. A total of 11,250 square feet of office space will occupy the second and third floors. The fourth and fifth floors will have 16 mixed-income one- and two-bedroom apartments. Monthly rents will be in the low $900s, considerably less than the rents charged at many of the new apartments downtown. A lot of professionals cant afford downtowns prices, Montplaisir said. Ours will be significantly more attainable. The property, which is on a Centro route, will have 55 onsite parking spaces. Plans also include solar panels to generate electricity for the building. Montplaisir has been building single-family to large mixed-use projects in underdeveloped areas of Washington, D.C., for 30 years. She said she met Smith at a small-business conference at Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts, in 2016. Smith asked her to join him and Henderson in developing the project in Syracuse. They came up with the name Salina 1st because it will be the first private development on South Salina Street on the citys South Side in a long time. Henderson said they are hoping the project spurs more private investment in the neighborhood, providing jobs for local residents. Weve got to do something, he said. Its just that simple. Rick Moriarty covers business news and consumer issues. Contact him anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-470-3148 Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV is proposing a merger with Renault SA to create the worlds third-biggest carmaker as manufacturers scramble for scale to tackle an expensive shift to electrification and autonomous driving. The transaction would be structured as a 50-50 ownership through a Dutch holding company, Fiat said Monday. Renault shareholders, including the French government, would get an implied premium of about 10 percent. In a statement, Renault's board said it would study what it called a "friendly" proposal. The carmakers are moving ahead without Renault's 20-year partner, Nissan Motor Co., and Mitsubishi Motors Corp., the other member of their troubled alliance. Fiat has conditioned the merger talks on Renault agreeing not to pursue a transaction with Nissan in the short term, according to people familiar with the matter. The Japanese company would be welcome to join the merged entity later. The broad strokes of the plan would make Fiat's founding shareholder, the Agnelli family's holding company Exor NV, the single largest investor in the combined entity. Fiat Chairman John Elkann would likely stay in that role while Renault Chairman Jean-Dominique Senard would be chief executive officer, the people familiar with the proposal said. Renault shares surged as much as 16.7 percent, while Fiat rose as much as 19.5 percent, the most ever. Together, they had a combined market value of about 35 billion euros ($39 billion). The talks come as automakers worldwide face intense pressure to spend heavily on new technologies and adapt to trends such as car-sharing. Falling sales in the world's biggest markets - China, the U.S. and Europe - have brought fresh urgency to consolidate. Fiat and Renault expect their joint annual synergies to amount to more than 5 billion euros, coming from areas such as purchasing power. "Fiat and Renault are looking for surer footing by gaining scale, and that's not a bad idea for mass-market carmakers," Bankhaus Metzler analyst Juergen Pieper said. "The execution of the deal is a significant hurdle. But on paper, this proposal looks good." The plan has political backing from the French state, which is Renault's most powerful shareholder. Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire met last week with Senard to discuss the proposal, government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye said on BFM television Monday. "We need to have industrial giants in Europe" to compete globally, she said. "Obviously we have to see the conditions" of the deal, to ensure that it would be favorable to Renault's development and to its employees. Italian Deputy Premier Matteo Salvini, who initially threatened to intervene, later gave his blessing - telling Agence France-Presse he trusts the deal "will safeguard every job in this country." Shareholders of both companies would be diluted by half. France's stake would go down to about 7.5 percent, and it would lose the double voting rights that give it extra sway with Renault. Nissan, which now owns almost 15 percent of Renault, would regain voting rights suspended under terms of the Renault alliance. Fiat and Renault went through dramatic changes at the top last year after former Fiat chief Sergio Marchionne died and Carlos Ghosn, who was chairman of the Franco-Japanese alliance, was arrested in Tokyo on charges of financial crimes. Ghosn has denied the accusations. Ghosn's removal from the helm of the Franco-Japanese partnership brought simmering tensions to the surface, with Nissan so far rejecting a French push for a merger. Should Renault's deal with Fiat go through, Nissan will now find itself chained to the larger entity through deeply integrated operations and cross-shareholdings with the French manufacturer. Fiat CEO Mike Manley said Monday that Nissan and Mitsubishi would see benefits from the combination - the company's proposal put them at 1 billion euros a year - and said he'd look for "even greater and mutually beneficial opportunities." Together, Fiat and Renault made about 8.7 million cars last year, which would vault the pair past South Korea's Hyundai Motor Group and Detroit's General Motors Co. That's still behind the world's two biggest automakers, Volkswagen AG and Toyota Motor Corp., who both topped 10 million vehicles last year. But if combined with output of Renault's existing alliance with Nissan and Mitsubishi, the total would be more than 15 million vehicles a year. Fiat and Renault would have a "broad and complementary brand portfolio" covering markets from luxury to mainstream, the Italian company said in its statement. Premium brands Jeep, Maserati, Alfa Romeo and Infiniti would come under a common umbrella. Fiat would give Renault access to the North American market, while gaining clout in Russia, the French carmaker's second-biggest market with its Avtovaz unit. Both companies reported lower deliveries in the first quarter. As part of the proposed deal, Fiat said it plans to spin off its robotics arm Comau through a distribution of shares. The company had considered options for the unit late last year, including a potential sale at a value of 1.5 billion euros to 2 billion euros, Bloomberg reported in November. The proposed deal between Fiat and Renault comes against a backdrop of an industry undergoing tectonic shifts. Carmakers are being pushed by regulators to develop electric vehicles to lower emissions. They've also been forced to spend on self-driving technology or risk getting left behind by deep-pocketed competitors like Alphabet Inc.'s Waymo. Merging companies with production facilities in North America, Europe and Japan won't be an easy task, and deal history in the car industry is marked by some spectacular failures. Daimler AG a decade ago unwound a merger with Chrysler after failing to overcome cultural differences between the German luxury-car maker and U.S. producer of mid-range cars. Volkswagen's planned alliance with Suzuki Motor Corp. ended in a London arbitration court before any joint vehicle came off the production line. In making the proposal to Renault, Elkann said he's encouraged by the success of Fiat's own merger with Chrysler. "We have learned that such deals can be done -- they are advantageous," he told reporters in Milan. "The automotive industry is going through changes, with challenges and opportunities ahead of us." Fiat Chrysler was advised by Goldman Sachs Group Inc., dAngelin & Co. and Nomura Holdings Inc. Renault worked with Societe Generale SA and Ardea Partners LP. Skaneateles, N.Y. -- The Welch Allyn name has been appearing on medical diagnostic equipment since the Skaneateles companys founding 104 years ago, and it looks like it will be sticking around for a while longer. Chicago-based Hillrom, which bought Welch Allyn Inc. in 2015, announced Tuesday it was uniting its many acquired company brands to the Hillrom brand. However, two of its brand names will remain, and one of them is Welch Allyn. Hillrom said the Welch Allyn brand will continue as a flagship product family for the companys patient monitoring and diagnostic equipment. The Welch Allyn name is well known and well respected, so it was important that we continue to leverage the Welch Allyn name even as we transition to a single global company brand in Hillrom, Howard Karesh, vice president of corporate communications, said in an email. As new products are introduced from that part of the business, the new Hillrom branding will appear, with Welch Allyn built into the specific product name. The other brand whose name will continue is Voalte, which Hillrom acquired in April. It will remain as a cornerstone of the companys expanded Care Communications product line. Reflecting its many acquisitions over the years, Hillrom makes medical equipment under the names Mortara, Trumpf Medical, Aspen Surgical, Allen Medical and Liko, in addition to Welch Allyn and Voalte. It said its rebranding, along with a new corporate logo, will strengthen its market positioning and strategic growth potential behind a single powerful brand. Our customers know us in a number of different ways, and today we bring them together under a powerful global Hillrom brand, said President and CEO John Groetelaars. Welch Allyn was founded in 1915 by Dr. Francis Welch and inventor William Noah Allyn, who together developed the worlds first hand-held, direct-illuminating ophthalmoscope to peer into patients eyes. Chicago-based Hillrom bought the company from the Allyn family in September 2015 for $2.05 billion. It opened a $12.7 million expansion of Welch Allyns manufacturing plant on State Street Road last year. The plant employs approximately 1,000 people. Rick Moriarty covers business news and consumer issues. Contact him anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-470-3148 The Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard police blotter of arrests from police agencies around Central New York has been updated today. Most of the new arrests are from the last couple weeks. The police blotter is searchable by name, charge, date and agency. You can search current dates or find arrests made in the past. Our database contains arrests from the current year and two years back. Among the 207 new arrests are: 1 person charged with arson 6 people charged with burglary 2 people charged with theft of services 26 people charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs Information in the police blotter is provided by the arresting agencies. Arrests are also published in the Neighbors pages of The Post-Standard. DEWITT, NY - A 31-year-old ShoppingTown Mall worker has been charged in connection with the ShoppingTown Mall bomb threat Thursday. Moriah Watkins, 31 , of Syracuse was charged with second-degree falsely reporting an incident (a felony) and making a punishable false written statement (a misdemeanor), DeWitt police said. Police said three mall employees reported that they each had received a text message threatening a bomb was in the building. K-9 dog units, along with officers, checked the building and its perimeter and determined there was no bomb, police said. The bomb threat was reported shortly after 9 a.m. Thursday. The mall was evacuated, although less than 25 people were inside the mall, according to police. The businesses that are operating had not yet opened for the day. A subsequent investigation revealed a third-party texting app was used to send the threatening text message to the three employees phones. A search warrant served on the texting app company uncovered a link to the worker who had initially reported the threat, according to police. That worker, Watkins, was questioned and confessed to sending the message to herself and the other two employees, according to DeWitt Police Chief John Anton. On May 23, she claimed in a written statement she had no knowledge of who sent the text message, police said. On the day of the bomb threat, Anton said the workers who received the text messages were part of the cleaning crew. At the time, police said two workers received the texts. Watkins was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to be arraigned June 12 in DeWitt court. Albany-area native James Charles has canceled his first-ever live tour amid controversy. Charles announced over the weekend that he cancelled all of his Sisters Tour" dates, including a June 28 show at the Auditorium Theatre in Rochester. Refunds are available through original points of purchase; tickets for the all-ages event started at $59. A lot has gone on in the past few weeks, which has led many people, including myself, wondering what was going to happen to the tour. And after the last week of meetings and phone calls, and trying to figure it all out, we have officially come to the very, very tough decision that I am canceling the Sisters Tour," Charles said in a YouTube video. Now I know this sucks, and people are going to be upset and sad about it and trust me, I am not really happy about this either. Charles, 19, became a celebrity on YouTube and Instagram while attending Bethlehem Central High School in the Capital Region. His beauty adventures and makeup tutorials drew millions of followers and he became CoverGirls first male model (or CoverBoy, as Katy Perry described him) at 16 years old. Charles had more than 16.2 million subscribers on YouTube and averaged 110 million views a month, plus 15.9 million followers on Instagram. However, his popularity took a huge hit and he lost more than a million followers this month when fellow youTube star Tati Westbrook accused him of spreading unflattering lies and criticizing his off-camera behavior. According to CNN, the feud allegedly began in April when Charles began promoting Sugar Bear gummy hair vitamins, a competitor of Westbrooks Halo Beauty hair vitamins. Westbrook said she felt betrayed because she was a mentor to Charles. Im not better, and Im not back either, but I am trying to move on with my life, Charles said in the video. Im still not doing well...I feel like I cant deliver the best version of James right now, and that sucks. According to a statement from RBTLs Auditorium Theatre, James is making plans to re-schedule his tour in the near future and will announce details as soon as possible. According to TubeFilter, the event was called the Sisters Tour because Charles calls everyone sister. Each show was expected to include onstage beauty tutorials, live music, games, an interactive Q&A session, surprise giveaways, exclusive merchandise, and chances for Instagram selfies. If someone yelled, Hey, Santa, to Garrey Curry as he was shopping at Nichols Market or leaving worship at Liverpool First United Methodist Church or leading a Memorial Day parade, hed ignore the greeting and just keep walking. He had the same cool reaction in any situation except those in which he was wearing full regaliared velvet suit, shiny black boots, and snowy white beard made of yak hair. There might be kids around, hed explain later to friends who felt snubbed. I dont want to confuse them. I want them to believe. Wanting people to believe was the force that motivated the burly, blue-eyed, gritty-voiced truck driver who, for more than three decades, was Santa Claus in Central New York. He died May 25 of complications from Parkinsons Disease, leaving behind a huge circle of believers who are certain that at a memorable point in their lives they had met the real Santa. That meeting might have taken place in a classroom, church, hospital or, for hundreds each year, at Johnson Park in the center of the one-square-mile village of Liverpool. Continuing a tradition that started in 1949, Curry took his place in the long line of Santas in the final decades of the century. He arrived at the park by fire truck on a Sunday evening early in December. After offering a few Ho-Ho-Hos and Merry Christmases, he asked the crowd to help him set a gigantic evergreen ablaze with colored lights. If everybody here believes, we can light the tree, hed say as he led the crowd in the countdown. Then, with holiday lights glowing and carols in the air, he sat patiently to listen as children approached him with their secret wishes. He gave each one a bag of treats, donated by the American Legion Post 188, and turned his full attention to the next child in line. Dad didnt play Santa, he was Santa, said his youngest daughter, Dawn Curry-Clarry of Salina. Dad embodied the role completely. Read Garrey Currys obituary She and her siblings recall living in a Santa-focused home all year as their father prepared for his mission, and they vividly remember their own participation. Turkey dinner leftovers were barely cleared away when they all shifted into high gear for Christmas. A neighbor made me an elf costume so I could ride along with dad in the red pickup truck to visit hospitals and nursing homes, Curry-Clarry said. Her brother, Garrey Jr. of Washington, Virginia, recalled everyone had an important role. Our basement was filled with bins labeled by age and interest. They held toys, games and books, most of which were collected during drives at local churches, he said. I helped Dad and the village police deliver food and gifts to needy families. I always went with him early Christmas mornings to the VA Hospital. Older sisters Tracy and Michelle helped writing letters with his wife, Diane, responding personally to hundreds of notes that arrived annually addressed simply to Santa Claus 13088. Those notes were gathered by staff at the Liverpool Post Office and passed along to the the Curry family. Curry began his role as Santa in 1972, just four years after he was discharged from the U.S. Army and had made Liverpool his home. He never accepted money for his appearances, but he did agree to allow a fund to be established and administered through the local branch of Seneca Federal Savings Bank. Through that trust, people could donate toward purchases for families in need. He took his vacation from Carolina Freight from Thanksgiving to Christmas, and he kept a full schedule of appearances each day and often into the evening. We never resented his work, but we, as family, did make sacrifices. Dad wasnt with us Christmas Eve because he was at St. Joseph the Worker Church. He wasnt with us Christmas morning because he was at the VA, Curry-Clarry recalled. Of course we would have liked to have him home, but we knew his gift to others was important. As kids, though, we did hate waiting to open our own presents, which didnt happen until well past noon. I may have driven my poor mother crazy with my impatience. Police Escort Gerry Neri, a 21-year member of the Liverpool Village Police force before he retired in 1998, said he and other officers in the Police Benevolent Association often drove Santa through moon-lit, picture-book nights to Christmas Eve destinations. But, he insists, even when winter blizzards hit and they navigated Central New Yorks infamous whiteouts, he felt privileged to be Santas official escort. No matter what the weather, or how tired we all were, when we stood with parents at a childs bedside as Santa gently whispered, Wake up. Im here, it was all worthwhile, Neri said. Ill never forget the look of wonder in those kids eyes. Sometimes on those holiday rides, the police would have reason to pull over a driver or stop to talk to someone on the streets. Neri said it usually worked out for the best, however, when theyd introduce Santa and tell the offenders to go safely on their way. Ill tell you this, Neri said, its hard to find a close friend. Its hard to lose a close friend. And, its hard to have to cherish the memory of a close friend who is gone. School Visits Dr. Jerome F. Melvin, who was superintendent of the Liverpool Central School District and, later, the North Syracuse Central School District, saw Curry as the personification of St. Nicholas kind, caring, generous, and the type of person who exemplifies strong community service. Im convinced that for many people now in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, the most vivid vision they have of Santa Claus is that of Garrey Curry, Melvin said. He even had a way of charming adults. Melvin recalled a December evening in 1993 when Santa arrived at a North Syracuse Board of Education meeting unannounced. He wished us all a Merry Christmas, and was soon on his way. But the simple goodwill that arrived with him lingered throughout the entire meeting. Now retired, Melvin said he often reflects upon his years in Central New York and the people who made it a welcoming community. Garrey was surely one of those people, Melvin said. He was the quintessential Santa, sure. But he was more than that. He represented the Christmas spirit of people reaching out to one another and caring for one another all year through. Jefferson Award Currys wife, Diane, and children say receiving the WTVH Jefferson Award for Distinguished Community Service in 1998 was a highlight in his life. It pulled together the many strands of his volunteer work and, according to his nominator, Lanny Hicks of the Liverpool branch of the U.S. Postal Service, it honored Curry for those actions that made him unique. Hicks wrote on the nomination form, His untiring devotion to one simple belief, that of bringing joy and good will to children and less fortunate people, sets him apart from the rest of us. Challenges By the time he was honored with the national award, Curry was already aware of some of the earliest changes that come with Parkinsons, a neurodegenerative disease. One of his first concerns upon diagnosis was that the involuntary tremors and weakness would affect his ability to be Santa Claus. The Rev. Bruce Webster, associate pastor of the Liverpool First United Methodist Church in the 1980s, said he knew Curry before and after his diagnosis and shared the fond feelings others had for Curry and for all the good works he did. First, Garrey was an amazing family man, making time for his children and watching over them carefully, Webster said, pointing out that the role of Santa came second only to family. I was always impressed with the number of connections he made and how he was in such demand and always rose to the occasion. He and his family sacrificed so much so others could have a wonderful Christmas. It was very touching to hear the stories of those he had visited. Later in his career, when Webster became the pastor of New Hartford UMC, he found that a Parkinson's Support Group met in the church. I reconnected with Garrey as he visited members of the group to bring the heart of Christmas to them, Webster said. By then, Garrey had been diagnosed with Parkinsons himself, and he was fully aware of the challenges wrought by the disease. Being Santa was tougher, but he was still faithful to the task. Reflecting on the passing of a man who embodied the best ideals of Santa Claus, Webster added, Garrey Curry was truly a child of Christmas, bringing light, joy and hope to as many people as he could. NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. Emma Sroka kept Central New Yorks perfect record intact Tuesday at the Scripps National Spelling Bee when she correctly spelled pelog in the first round of oral competition. Sroka, 10, of William H. Seward Elementary School in Auburn, asked for the words definition: a noun referring to scales in music native to Bali and Java in Indonesia. The fifth-grader asked for any alternative pronunciations. She was informed there were none. Her questions answered, Sroka proceeded to correctly spell p-e-l-o-g and become the third co-champion of The Post-Standard | Syracuse.com | WCNY Spelling bee to advance in the national competition. Earlier in the day, Hudson Brenner, 10, of Manlius, and Sehej Bajwa, 13, of DeWitt, correctly spelled their words to advance to the next round of competition on Wednesday. Brenner, of Eagle Hill Middle School, spelled anosmic, an adjective relating to the loss of the sense of small. Bajwa, of Jamesville-DeWitt Middle School, spelled piupiu, a noun that describes the short kilt worn for native dances by the Maori people of New Zealand. The three are among 562 students from all 50 U.S. states and seven foreign countries in this year's 92nd national spelling bee. The students are competing for more than $50,000 in cash and prizes. By 2:30 p.m., 36 competitors had been eliminated after spelling a word incorrectly in the opening round. No more than 50 students will advance to the final round of competition on Thursday. Contact Mark Weiner: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751 Evangelist Franklin Graham insists his appearance this week at the Lakeview Amphitheatre near the state Fairgrounds will be about God, not politics. Graham, the son of noted evangelist Billy Graham, brings his Decision America Northeast Tour to the Amp for a free-admission prayer, preaching and music event starting at 7:30 p.m. Thursday (May 30). This isnt a political tour or anything like that, Graham said in an interview with syracuse.com on Friday. We are simply calling people to prayer, to pray for the leaders in our country. And I just give a message of hope, how a person can have hope, knowing that their sins are forgiven and that theyre ready to stand before God and that he would welcome them into heaven. During the course of the interview, Graham made it clear the operation of the government is not far from his mind. Today our country -- weve taken God out of everything -- our politicians have taken God out of state government. Were trying to take him out of federal government. Washington is dysfunctional, he said at another point. It didnt used to be that way. And, unprompted, he continued his verbal sparring with Pete Buttigieg, the openly gay mayor of South Bend, Ind. who is running for the Democratic presidential nomination. Buttigieg has said his relationship with his husband brings him closer to God. Buttigieg also rejected the idea that he must repent for his sexual orientation. That, Graham says, gives him the opening to weigh in. Im not afraid to speak out, like on Peter Buttigieg, Graham said. .".. (he) brought God into the debate. OK. This is my arena. You want to talk about God, then Im going to talk about God. And I wanted the mayor to know Gods standards. God says homosexuality is a sin. And, now, adultery is a sin. Lying is a sin. Stealing is a sin. And I wanted the mayor to know that this is not something that we flaunt, this is something we should repent of and we should ask Gods forgiveness and turn to him and ask him for forgiveness. But hes very proud of his sins and wants to flaunt these sins. So I think I have a right to speak out." Graham believes this is his first visit to Syracuse since he accompanied his father on a multi-night crusade at the Carrier Dome in 1989. (Billy Graham, who died last year, had also brought his crusade to the War Memorial in Syracuse in 1953). Though some critics have accused Franklin Graham of being more overtly political than his father, he disagrees. Billy Graham, he notes, was an adviser to every president since Harry Truman. The Decision America tour started in 2016 and is taking Graham to all 50 states. Since it started, Graham has made speeches and issued statements that seem to support President Trump. The Northeast version of the Decision America concludes in Syracuse Thursday after taking Graham to one city in each of the five New England states in the past few weeks. Belief in God is on the decline, and the Northeast was recently named the least religious part of the U.S., Grahams web site says. What this regionand America as a wholeneeds is a spiritual transformation that starts in individual hearts. Only Jesus Christ can bring that change. The tour of the Northeast also comes as political debate intensifies over abortion and the 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision that legalized it. While states like Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky and Indiana have approved new restrictions on abortion rights, two Northeast states -- New York and Vermont -- have gone the other way and strengthened protections for abortion. Many believe the issue is headed back to the Supreme Court. Graham makes no secret of his views on this topic. Well, abortion in Gods eyes is murder, he said in the syracuse.com interview. "And regardless of what state legislatures or parties or governors say or do, God sees this as murder. Life begins at conception. And to stop a life, to terminate a life, (is) no different than what the German did a Auschwitz and these concentration camps where they slaughtered the Jews. Were taking and destroying a life and its sad that our politicians are so removed from God and his standards -- they dont even know whats right and wrong. ... And it just shows you the coldness and the wickedness of these legislators hearts, he continued. And I would hope that the state of New York would see and would understand that there is a God who made us. ... He is the creator and one day we will have to stand before him and give an account, and I want people to be ready to stand before God. In his Saturday appearance at the Big E area in West Springfield, Mass., Graham drew a crowd of more than 5,000, according to Masslive.com. Graham said he welcomes all -- including those he calls his critics -- to attend. For people who say, Oh we hate Franklin Graham, -- OK, come on down and listen to the word of God that Ill be preaching," Graham said ."Ill be preaching from the Bible and just listen to what God says. And maybe God will just speak to your heart. EVENT DETAILS What: Franklin Graham Decision America Northeast Tour When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 30. Where: St. Josephs Health Amphitheater at Lakeview. What to expect: The previous tour stops have typically featured about an hours worth of spiritual music by Crowder and 20 to 30 minutes of preaching from Graham. Admission: Free. Gates open at 6 p.m. Parking: Only the Orange lot is open (starting at 4:30 p.m.). Centro bus service is available. Concessions: Food and non-alcoholic beverages are available, including from vendors Bull 'n Bear, Toss 'n Fire and Glazed and Confused. Note: There is no alcohol allowed, per the tours rules. Signs -- including protest signs -- are allowed, but must be limited to the size of a standard piece of paper (8.5 x 11), according to the amphitheater. More information about this event from the amphitheater. 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. It feels like almost every single day, Apple gets sued for something. We previously reported on a widow winning a case over access to her dead husbands iCloud account, as well as the Apple Monopoly case where Apple has been accused of creating a monopoly over the App Store. Now its time for yet another lawsuit, this time over privacy. Apple has been very loud in its What happens on your iPhone, stays on your iPhone ad campaign, however, does that include MacBooks and other Apple devices running iTunes? Because if it does, someone may be in trouble. Three unnamed individuals have filed a court case against Apple, for selling iTunes user data to third-parties. The lawsuit, filled in California, accuses the Cupertino company of selling data regarding what users are listening to, liking and adding to their playlists via iTunes and Apple Music. Apple is a very strong advocate for privacy in the technology community, making the whole case quite ironic. Apple has stepped up against organisations like the FBI in the past over a single iPhone, just to show off how much they care about their user privacy. On top of that, the company has multiple times released posts, ad-campaigns and much more addressing privacy as the reason to use Apple devices. If this case proves to be true, Apple could risk their whole privacy-oriented reputation. Auburn, N.Y. -- A woman and an 18-year-old man were arrested earlier today in Auburn after one pushed pushed and bit a police officer and the other slapped the officer. According to Auburn police, officers went to Washington Street in the city at 2:44 p.m. to investigate a call. While they were there trying to get more information about the call, an 18-year-old pushed a police officer. The officer then attempted to arrest the man, whose name was not released. This prompted the man to bite the officers index finger, according to police. As the officer handcuffed the 18-year-old who had bitten him, Destiny Gould, 20, slapped the officer in the face, police said. She, too, was taken into custody, police said. The officer was treated at Auburn Community Hospital for the bite and bruising from the altercation, police said. The 18-year-old, whose name was not released, was charged with second-degree assault, a felony, and second-degree obstructing governmental administration, a misdemeanor. Gould was charged with second degree obstructing governmental administration, a misdemeanor, a second-degree harassment, a violation. Sunland Park, N.M. A group that raised money for a U.S-Mexico border wall online says construction of a section of its wall in New Mexico is nearly finished. We Build the Wall was founded by Brian Kolfage, an Air Force veteran and triple amputee. Several supporters of President Donald Trumps tough immigration policies are involved, including former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon and former Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach, according to CNN. The group has raised over $20 million through its ongoing campaign for wall funding on GoFundMe, CNN said. Kobach said a half-mile stretch of wall near the New Mexico-Texas state line is nearly done. The work will cost $6 million to $8 million, said Kobach, who serves as We Build the Wall's general counsel, according to CNN. Border Patrol officials said they could not immediately comment on the new wall, which is located on private land owned by the American Eagle Brick Co., according to USA Today. "Why wouldn't we allow it?" American Eagle Brick co-owner Jeff Allen said of the wall, according to USA Today. "We have dealt with illegals coming across. We have been attacked by illegals coming across. We have been burglarized by illegals. We have drug traffickers coming through here and anyone who is against this is against America." Bannon, chairman of We Build the Walls advisory board, told CNN that the wall connects two 21-mile sections of existing government fencing. CNN was not able to confirm that. Kobach said the area was not covered with government fencing in part because of its rough terrain, according to USA Today. Even though the section of new fencing is relatively short, it is critically important given its proximity to a sizable city like El Paso, he added. Work on the new wall section should wrap up by Wednesday, Kobach said, according to the El Paso Times in Texas. Contact Kevin Tampone anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-282-8598 CAMILLUS, N.Y. - If youve been to the New York State Fair or any number of festivals in Central New York over the last decade, theres a good chance youve seen Kikis. Identifiable by its bold blue-and-white-striped tent that matches the checkerboard paper wrapped around each gyro, Kikis has been serving Greek food and other Mediterranean fare since 2008. On Wednesday, May 29, after nearly 11 years, Kikis Authentic Greek Food will celebrate the grand opening of its first brick-and-mortar restaurant at 64 Main St. in Camillus. The gyros that have made Kikis a favorite werent even on the menu when the business started at the 2008 CNY TomatoFest in Auburn, owner Bob Cosselmon said. Instead, Kikis was focused on healthy Greek foods, such as its cuke-a-bobs," a pita wrapped around cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, onions and tzatziki sauceessentially a hand-held Greek salad. It didnt go too well, Cosselmon said. They [the customers] kept asking for meat, said Cosselmons mother, Kyriaki Psarros, who emigrated from the Greek island of Chios and whose nickname became the restaurants namesake. Diners can still get that original vegetarian sandwich, but now the menu has expanded to include salads, soups, appetizers; lamb, pork and chicken gyros and souvlaki and freshly-cut fries that come topped with anything from gyro meat to the tzatziki sauce thats made with Psarros recipe every morning that Cosselmon plans to eventually produce commercially for retail stores. The trick to great tzatziki, he said, is to start with good-quality Greek yogurt and extra-virgin olive oil. Theres also the Greek bowls, a dish of rice and shredded greens topped with choices of spit-roasted or grilled meats, falafel, stuffed grape leaves and all the fixings thats like a Greek equivalent of the burrito bowl. Dessert choices include baklava made with Psarros Chian recipe thats crispier and less syrupy than typical baklava. The restaurant, located in the former Nicks Pizzeria & Deli location, is decorated with a Greek meander motif. A bouzouki, a traditional Greek stringed instrument, that Cosselmon was gifted from his uncle, Christos, once a touring bouzouki player, hangs from one of the walls. For many years, Kikis was a side project for Cosselmon, who had a career in sales at Pepsi. But around a year ago, he decided he wanted to do Kikis full time and turn it into a restaurant. He got the space in September and left Pepsi in April. This is my retirement job, Cosselmon said with a laugh. Running a restaurant takes more hours, but Cosselmon has enjoyed being his own boss. If you have to be stressed, its better to be stressed about yourself, your own business," Cosselmon said. Its more rewarding. The restaurant is open Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, call (315) 952-1933 or visit the restaurants Facebook page. Jacob Pucci finds the best in food, dining and culture across Central New York. Contact him at (315) 282-8611, or by email at jpucci@syracuse.com. Subscribers only: Join a group text with Jacob Pucci to get news and updates on the restaurants and cuisines of Central New York. SIGN UP HERE Syracuse, N.Y. -- This week, Lake Ontario will probably rise higher than the record set just two years ago. The lake level is now 248.85 feet above sea level, just 1.2 inches shy of the record level set in 2017, said the International Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River board, which regulates the levels of the lake and river. The board said in a news release that the lake is expected to crest in one to three weeks at about 1 inch above the 2017 record, but could go higher if more rain falls than expected. Residents and politicians blame the high levels on Plan 2014, the boards regulation that went into effect in January 2017, but the board says weather is the problem now, just as it was two years ago. The main drivers for the high water levels continue to be the uncontrolled and record-high inflows from Lake Erie, through the Niagara River, and above average precipitation across the Lake Ontario and Ottawa River basins for this time of year, the release said. Lake Erie supplies 85% of the inflow to Lake Ontario, and Erie has hit record levels this year due to heavy rain in the Great Lakes basin. The Ottawa River, which merges with the St. Lawrence at Montreal, has already exceeded the record-high levels set there in 2017. Since May 16, the board has increased the amount of water it lets out of the lake through the Moses-Saunders Dam at Massena. The board is limited by how much it can release from Lake Ontario, because drawing down the lake by 1 inch increases the level of the St. Lawrence by 11 inches at Montreal. The National Weather Service has issued a lakeshore flood warning for Monroe, Niagara and Orleans county today. The combination of very high lake levels and moderate east-northeast winds will result in greater wave action and will lead to lakeshore flooding on the western portion of Lake Ontario, the warning said. Apple has teamed up with Goldman Sachs for the innovative Apple Card in the United States. It was not only Apples first credit card but also the first one for Goldman Sachs. As it turns out, Apple was also in talks with Citigroup for the Apple Card but the bank pulled out amidst doubts that it could turn a profit on the partnership. Unlike other credit cards, the Apple Card does not have any kind of fees whatsoever. Plus, Apple is offering customers cashback of anywhere between 1 to 3 percent depending on their purchase. Citigroup felt that there was no way it could make a decent profit off this partnership which led to it from pulling out of the talks. Other banks like Barclays, J.P. Morgan Chase, and Synchrony also bid for the Apple Card business. A Goldman Sachs spokesperson said that the company was thrilled to partner with Apple over the Apple Card. Goldman Sachs seeks to disrupt consumer finance by putting the customer first, Williams said in a statement. We are excited for customers to use Apple Card, which is designed to help people take control of their financial lives. U.S. banks earn billions of dollars every year in late fees, interest, and other charges from their customers. With the Apple Card though, the consumer-first approach means that there are no fees involved whatsoever on late payment, getting a physical card issued, or more. Then, Apple will also actively encourage Apple Card customers to pay off their credit card bill as soon and as much as possible which means that there is going to be less room for banks to earn any money via interest payment. Our Take Goldman Sachs has long been in the trading side of the business. The company has been making a push in the consumer finance space and this partnership with Apple will allow it to gain millions of new credit card users in a very short time. It also does not offer anything similar to its existing customers so theres no risk of cannibalizing its own business. However, it remains to be seen how Goldman Sachs scales up its operations to handle the influx of millions of new customers. It looks like the Apple Card partnership could make or break things for Goldman Sachs in the consumer finance space. If Apple Card ends up being successful, other banks would end up having a lot to worry about. [Via CNBC 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 Aside from malware and viruses, nothing has the potential to be more dangerous to your computers health than power outages. Here is how to ensure your computer keeps it boot on when a power failure turns the lights off. With the approach of the turbulent summer season, it is important to know what kills the electrical lifeline, how to safeguard your digital gear from fatal reboot disease, and how to reach the desktop when the computer refuses to restart. This knowledge is vital whether you use computers to do your job in a business office or your own home office environment. To minimize the potential damage from electrical power fluctuations, you should have your computers and modems plugged directly into power surge protective strips. Surge protectors are effective protection against glitches due to normally fluctuating energy levels. However, a direct lightning strike is likely to fry the surge protector and then burn out the electronic gadgets plugged into it. A good strategy is to unplug the surge protector from the electric wall socket when a storm arrives. Another essential piece of protective equipment is an uninterruptible power supply, or UPS. A UPS is a sophisticated battery-containing device that supplies backup power to desktop PCs during electrical grid outages and brownouts. One of the most important services a UPS can deliver is continuation of the electrical power usually about 15 minutes giving you enough time to safely save your data and power down your equipment. The UPS will kick in when its sensors detect an interruption of electricity from the main service line to your home or office. The latest UPS models can reset to an off position automatically as their rechargeable batteries run out of energy. When the normal power supply returns, your computer can restart without its power supply being blocked if it is so configured. The BIOS settings in many computers let you adjust the power settings so the computer senses when normal electrical supply returns. You can pick up a UPS at office supply retailers and box stores, as well as your favorite online shopping center. The software that comes with it safeguards the computer when it is unattended. This is useful if you use remote access services and file-syncing cloud storage services. Getting your PC to restart automatically after a power outage involves getting the computer to see the power returning by making some changes to the PCs BIOS settings and installing the UPS-included software. Read on to learn how to do this. What Breaks the Power Causes of power outages involve some obvious and a few subtle situations. Mother Nature, device fatigue and dumb luck all figure into the power breakdown equation. Other than being prepared before trouble strikes, there is little you can do when the power grid fails. Here is a quick list of power failure causes: Weather Lightning, high winds and ice are weather hazards that often impact the power supply. Interruptions can last several days, depending on how rapidly ground conditions improve to let work crews find and repair the damage. Lightning can strike equipment or trees, causing them to fall into electrical lines and equipment. Severe distress Earthquakes of all sizes and hurricanes can damage electrical facilities and power lines. This sometimes catastrophic damage can cause long-term power outages. Equipment failure Even when the weather is not a primary cause of a power outage, faulty equipment in the electrical system can be a primary cause of outages. Hardware breakdowns result from failure due to age, performance and other factors. Sometimes, adverse weather, such as lightning strikes, can weaken equipment. High demands on the electrical grid also can cause overloads and faults that make equipment more susceptible to failure over time. Wildlife Small creatures have an uncanny knack for squeezing into places they do not belong in search of food or warmth. When squirrels, snakes and birds come into contact with equipment such as transformers and fuses, they can cause equipment to fail momentarily or shut down completely. Trees Weather can be a secondary contributor, causing circumstances that can lead to power outages when trees interfere with power lines. During high winds and ice storms, tree limbs or entire trees can come into contact with poles and power lines. Public damage Accidents happen. Vehicle accidents or construction equipment can cause broken utility poles, downed power lines and equipment damage. Excavation digging is another cause of power loss when underground cables are disturbed. Tracking When dust accumulates on the insulators of utility poles and then combines with light moisture from fog or drizzle, it turns dust into a conductor. This causes equipment to fail. Momentary circuit interruptions Blinks, or short-duration interruptions, are annoying. However, they serve a valuable purpose by shutting off the flow of electricity briefly to prevent a longer power outage when an object comes in contact with electric lines, causing a fault. If power surge strips (not multi-socket power strips) are not attached to your computer gear, the sudden loss of electricity and then a surge of power can cause data loss or component failure. Dealing With It You can not prevent the power grid from going down, but you can takes steps to ensure that it does not take your computer down with it. You also can learn what to do if your computer refuses to boot up to the desktop once the power returns. First, before trouble strikes, make sure you set the BIOS switches to enable your computer to restart after a power interruption. The BIOS circuits are hardwired to the computers motherboard. You must establish the restart settings when there is no loss of electricity. You must be able to start the computer to reach the BIOS controls. A D V E R T I S E M E N T Just how you get there depends on the make and model of your computer. The BIOS restart setting is operating system-independent. It does not matter whether you run Microsoft Windows or Linux as the operating system of choice. The BIOS is responsible for bootstrapping the computer hardware and telling it to begin the startup process that leads to your desktop. Adjusting the Dials Here is how to set your computers BIOS to start automatically after power outage. Power On your computer and press DEL or F1 or F2 or F10 to enter the BIOS (CMOS) setup utility. The way to enter into BIOS Settings depends on the computer manufacturer. Watch for a message in tiny print along the bottom edge of the screen when it first turns on. Inside the BIOS menu, look under the Advanced or ACPI or Power Management Setup menus* for a setting named Restore on AC/Power Loss or AC Power Recovery or After Power Loss. *Note: The Restore on AC/Power Loss setting can be found under different places inside BIOS setup according to computer manufacturer. Set the Restore on AC/Power Loss setting to Power On. Save and exit from BIOS settings. (The menu on the screen will give you the function key combination to do this.) If you use a Linux-powered computer as a server, it probably is essential for you to get it up and running as soon as the power comes back on. The server might be located in a less accessible part of the building. You can select additional settings to ensure an unattended restart after a power interruption. There are four places where you have to set things up to continue without human intervention: BIOS: Make sure that the BIOS is set up to boot when power resumes. Boot loader: Set up the boot loader to not wait for a user to select what OS to boot. Boot into the default OS right away. Login: Set up the boot procedure to log in to a particular user automatically after boot. Do not wait for a person to log in. Application restart: Set up the boot procedure to start the application programs automatically without human intervention. Set Up Auto-Restart Some computers have a BIOS option that prepares the computer to restart more easily when failed power is restored. You need to check ahead of time to verify that your computer has this feature and it is activated. Here is how to do this: Open your computers BIOS settings menu. This is a hardware-dependent process that works fairly similar on all computers whether you boot into Windows or Linux. Restart the computer and watch for the first flash-screen to appear. Look for the Setup function key description. It will be Setup F2 or F12, or something similar. Restart the computer and at the same time press the appropriate function key. Tap the key repeatedly during this initial startup period and the BIOS Settings menu will appear. Look for the Power Settings menu item within the BIOS and change the AC Power Recovery or similar setting to On. Look for a power-based setting that affirms that the PC will restart when power becomes available. Some older PCs lack this functionality. If your gear has it, save the configuration by pressing the designated function key as displayed on the screen. This reboots the computer. If you are using a UPS to provide a short-interval battery supply when the power outage occurs, see the additional steps below to make the hardware connections. Meanwhile, lets focus on how to restart computers when the power grid is back online. Get Windows 10 to Start Again After a power outage, your Windows system may not boot or restart properly. Any attempt to boot the system could bring you to a stalled loading screen or a blue screen with an error message. Power surges are a common cause of booting issues with Windows. The sudden loss of power can corrupt system files. These suggestions may help you get around that problem. Start Windows 10 in Safe Mode. Press the power on button on the computer. Press Windows logo key + I on your keyboard to open Settings. Select Update & Security > Recovery. Under Advanced startup, select Restart now. After your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select: Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart. After your PC restarts, select an option to finish the process. Here is a second method to restart Windows 10 after a power outage. Use the built-in System Configuration Utility From the Win+X Menu, open Run box and type msconfig; then and hit the Enter key. Under the Boot tab, check the Safe boot and Minimal options. Click Apply/OK and exit. When the computer restarts, it will automatically enter Safe Mode. It will continue to boot into Safe Mode until you change the setting back to normal boot. So before you shutdown Windows 10, open msconfig again and uncheck the Safe Boot check box; click Apply/OK, and then click the Restart button. Get Windows 7 to Reboot Each version of Microsoft Windows has a slightly different procedure to apply. If you have not yet upgraded to Windows 10, follow these steps to jump-start Windows 7. Press the power on button to attempt to restart the computer. Press F8 before the Windows 7 logo appears. At the Advanced Boot Options menu, select the Repair your computer option. Then press the Enter key. Fix the Linux Boot Failure Linux may be more able to fight off malware and viruses and such than Microsoft Windows. Still. it is no more immune to electrical surges and power grid outages than any other piece of electronic equipment. The electricity issue attacks the hardware before it impacts the operating system by inadvertently corrupting Linux files. So you should make sure that your BIOS settings are enabled to restart after a wrongful shutdown when the power fails. Follow the same steps detailed above for adjusting the dials. When trouble strikes, apply the steps outlined below to force your Linux-powered computer to restart into Safe Mode, which is actually a recovery mode. The process with most Linux distributions can be a little different than with Windows-powered boxes. The process depends in large part on your computer hardware. Some computers especially those custom-made with Linux preinstalled have a BIOS option called fast boot activated in the BIOS setup, which disables the F2 setup and F12 boot menu prompts. This is something you will have to verify while the computer is still operational. In that case, power off your device and turn it back on. Hold down the F2 key (or whatever key combination is displayed on the screen). Activate Safe/Recovery Mode in Linux When you see the BIOS setup utility on the screen, disable fast boot, save the setting and reboot. Using the fast boot option, the Linux OS, in essence, jumps into the startup routine by forcing the computer to run the Grand Unified Bootloader (GRUB) or GRUB 2 menu. Press the Computers power on/off button. Hold down the left Shift key as the computer starts to boot. If holding the Shift key doesnt display the menu, press the ESC key repeatedly to display the GRUB 2 menu. Sometimes the SHIFT & ESC keys work instead. From there you can choose the recovery option. Follow the on-screen directions to attempt to restart your Linux computer. Use a Live CD Boot Repair Disk Super Grub2 Disk and Rescatux are strong and reliable emergency boot solutions for Linux computers. Super Grub2s stark interface makes it intimidating to use. Rescatux is far more user-friendly. Both are developed by the same source. Super Grub2 Disk is a bit limited in its fix-and-go capabilities. If all you need is to bypass the problem and boot your failed system, it usually does the job. If you need a bona fide repair solution, use Rescatux. The Rescatux emergency repair app is actually a live Linux distro CD environment. You can boot the dead computer from the CD/DVD (which you obviously must have created ahead of time). Make the Hardware Connections One of the major benefits of having a connected UPS is the ability to have the computer restart once the power supply resumes. The main things to look for when investigating which UPS to get are the initial cost, the cost of replacement batteries and the frequency with which youll have to replace them, the ability to manage and monitor the UPS from Linux, and the watts and volt-amps provided. The batteries in a UPS degrade over time, resulting in a loss in its total power capacity. You might have to replace the batteries in the UPS in three to five years. If you only need to run a machine for five minutes and have the choice of a UPS that can run a machine for seven minutes or one that can give you 10, you can get away without replacing the batteries in the larger capacity UPS for a longer time although the batteries for the larger UPS likely will be more expensive as well. If you run the Linux OS, make sure the UPS you buy has software that supports Linux. If it does not, you will have to manually turn off the computers before the UPS batteries run out of juice. Follow these steps to connect the UPS to your computer and peripherals such as printer and modem. Plug the PC and monitor into available controlled AC outlets on the UPS. Do not plug a power strip into the UPS socket first. Plug each hardware directly into its own UPS connection. Connect the included USB cable between UPS and PC. It is used for communications. Do not use a powered USB hub between UPS and PC or the lack of power during an outage will cause communications to fail. Plug the UPS into the wall power supply and allow it to charge. This takes four or more hours to charge fully. Install and Configure the UPS Software if available. The directions will vary based on the UPS you have and the software that comes with it. Install the included software. Navigate to the Energy Management tab or similar within the Configuration setting. Check the Enable Energy Management check box and choose the Default settings in PowerChute. Look for any Turn On Again settings in any other power management software and check as appropriate. A Few More Tips With no endorsement intended, following is a list products to provide a starting point for purchasing a UPS or supporting software. In brief: In a statement issued by Sony CEO Kenichiro Yoshida, the company's stance on gaming addiction has been brought to light. Recently declared as a mental disorder by the World Health Organization, Yoshida discussed the need to take this issue seriously as well as countermeasures that Sony has already in place to prevent gamers from becoming addicted. The World Health Organization's recent decision to declare gaming addiction as a mental health order raised quite a few eyebrows. Prompting responses from both sides of the fence, Sony's CEO also commented on this development promising to take gaming addiction seriously. "We need to take it seriously and adopt countermeasures," he said in an interview. "Weve already implemented a ratings system (to restrict players by age) and have been taking measures based on our own standards." Depending upon the depiction of violence and sexual themes, the company also provides guidance for game software based on suitable age. It also features a wide suite of parental controls on the PlayStation that can be used to limit a child's access to content and for how long can they play in a single day. Although these measures are effective for children, adults, who form a big chunk of the gaming community, can't be expected to be controlled by these features. What lengths will Sony go to prevent an adult from becoming an 'addict' remain to be seen. While countermeasures that need to be adopted were not detailed by Yoshida, the company would need to tread carefully in this territory for two reasons. The first is that gamers and mental health experts generally disagree with WHO's classification of gaming addiction as a mental health disorder because on the contrary, some studies have linked this hobby with improved mental health resulting in a sharper memory, reduction in anxiety and better cognitive functioning. The second reason is that if Sony treats gaming addiction a bit too firmly, it might come up with an intrusive or policing gaming experience that's likely to offend the PlayStation community and a huge player base that's eagerly awaiting the company's next-gen console. Going forwards, it will be interesting to see what features are implemented by Sony and how successfully it can prevent gaming addiction among it's PlayStation fanbase. Image Credit: Alexander Andrews on Unsplash Facepalm: Many people have ambitions of working for Apple, but there are right ways and wrong ways to go about it. Hacking into the company, twice, and being arrested for your crimes isnt the best way to secure employment, but an Australian teenager thought it was a good plan. In fairness to the teen, who cant be named for legal reasons, hed heard that Apple hired a European hacker whod broken into its systems, so he assumed the company would also offer him a job for doing something similar. The 17-year-old, along with another teen, hacked Apple in 2015 when he was just 13 and again in 2017 by creating false credentials to break into the companys servers. They downloaded internal documents and data but no customer information was compromised and Apple was not harmed financially or intellectually, according to the court. "He had no idea about the seriousness of the offence and hoped that when it was discovered that he might gain employment at this company," his lawyer, Mark Twiggs, told the Adelaide Youth Court. Rather than being convicted, the teen was given a $500 (around $346 US) 9-month good behavior bond and was told to use his skills for good. The accomplice in the case, who is now 19, also avoided jail, receiving an 8-month good behavior bond. It was last year reported that after a warrant was executed on the second boys family home, the stolen information was discovered on a hard drive in a folder called Hacky hack hack. His lawyers said he also dreamed of working for the Cupertino company one daymaybe applying the traditional way would be better, and certainly less risky. WTF?! Who knew that an obsolete netbook loaded with malware could be worth so much? As a PC repair technician, I've been dealing in "rare art" for well over a decade and had no idea. SMH. Take something ordinary, slap the term art on it and people will pay a fortune. Or at least, thats the lesson garnered from this story. The Persistence of Chaos is an art project commissioned by cybersecurity firm Deep Instinct. Get this its literally a 10-year-old Samsung NC10 netbook loaded with some of the worlds most malicious pieces of software that recently sold for more than $1.3 million at auction. The piece was created by contemporary Internet artist Guo O Dong to make physical the abstract threats posed by the digital world. It contains six pieces of malware ILOVEYOU, MyDoom, SoBig, WannaCry, DarkTequila and BlackEnergy which have collectively caused financial damage totaling $95 billion. Dong told The Verge that we have this fantasy that things that happen in computers cant actually affect us, but this is absurd. Weaponized viruses that affect power grids or public infrastructure can cause direct harm, Dong added. The laptop is isolated and airgapped to help prevent the malware from spreading. Engadget likens it to a grenade so long as you dont pull the pin out (or in this case, connect it to Wi-Fi or plug a drive into it), it should be safe. Image credit: Virus malware by Yuttanas One of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world has agreed to pay $85 million to settle a lawsuit in Oklahoma that allegedly links the company to the opioid crisis. Israel-based Teva Pharmaceuticals has been accused by Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter of intensifying the state's opioid epidemic through the company's production and marketing of opioids. Teva Pharmaceuticals clarified in a statement that the settlement "does not establish any wrongdoing" on the part of the company and it reiterates that it has not "contributed to the abuse of opioids" in Oklahoma in any way. Oklahoma's Historic Opioid Epidemic Lawsuit The settlement comes on the heels of reports that a first pharmaceutical company, Purdue Pharma, agreed in March to pay $270 million in the historic lawsuit. The only remaining defendant is Johnson & Johnson and a trial will be heard by a district judge in the last week of May. In a statement, Attorney General Hunter said Teva Pharmaceuticals' announcement is a testament to the hard work that the state's legal team has put in preparation for the trial and the team's dedication to resolve the opioid epidemic. The money from the Teva Pharmaceutical settlement will be used to combat the opioid crisis in Oklahoma, Hunter said. State attorneys estimate that it will take at least $12.7 billion to $17.5 billion over three decades to fully abate the state's opioid epidemic. In March, Hunter said $102.5 million of the settlement reached with Purdue Pharma will be used to help establish a national addiction treatment and research center at Oklahoma State University. Purdue Pharma will provide additional payments of $15 million every year within the next five years as well as $20 million worth of addiction treatment and opioid rescue medications. The $12.5 million that remains in the settlement will be used to help cities and counties directly affected by the opioid crisis. The Opioid Crisis In The United States Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that opioid overdoses have been responsible for nearly 47,000 deaths in the United States in 2017 alone. At least 36 percent of those deaths involved prescription opioids. Meanwhile, Hunter said almost all Oklahomans have been negatively affected by the opioid crisis. "We look forward to Tuesday, where we will prove our case against Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiaries," Hunter added. The opioid crisis is far from over. A report from the CDC revealed that the first wave of the epidemic consisted of the abuse of the prescription painkiller OxyContin, which was manufactured by Purdue Pharma. The second wave of the epidemic was heroin. Now, the third wave of the opioid crisis is in full swing, where it is dominated by fentanyl, the CDC said in its report. In fact, the number of deaths associated with fentanyl has more than doubled every year since 2013. Fentanyl is prescribed by doctors to patients who are undergoing cancer treatments to relieve their pain. This synthetic opioid has been said to be at least 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Fentanyl abuse can slow down a person's heartbeat and stop their breathing in less than a minute. Photo: Ajay Suresh | Flickr 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. All-purpose flour sold in supermarket chain Aldi is the subject of a recent product recall. The grocer company issued the recall after 17 people reported being sick. According to an alert by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is investigating a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O26 linked to flour. The particular strain was found in an unopened bag of Baker's Corner All Purpose Flour collected at a bakery where an ill person reported eating raw dough. Multistate Outbreak At least 17 people from eight states became sick, three of whom have been hospitalized. The illnesses started on dates ranging from Dec. 11, 2018, to April 18. No deaths and no cases of the hemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure, have been reported so far. According to the CDC, four out of seven people who were interviewed reported licking, eating, or tasting raw, homemade dough or batter. Two people said they ate raw dough or batter made with flour or baking mixes from Aldi. On May 23, Aldi, in association with ADM Milling Co., recalled the 5-pound bags of Baker's Corner All Purpose Flour sold at retail locations in the northeast United States, particularly in the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and West Virginia. "The Bakers Corner All Purpose Flour affected by the ADM Milling Co. recall is sold in a 5 lb. bag with the following UPC code: 041498130404. Out of an abundance of caution, Aldi has recalled all best if used by dates and all lots of Bakers Corner All Purpose Flour products produced by ADM Milling Co. in Buffalo, N.Y. from store shelves in these states," said Aldi in a statement. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has yet to determine whether other brands or lots of flour may be potentially contaminated with E. coli and need to be recalled. Do Not Eat Raw Dough The CDC has advised consumers, restaurants, and retailers to properly and immediately dispose of the recalled product. Other flour brands bought from Aldi and stored in another container without packaging must also be discarded, especially if the customer cannot recall the brand or "better by" date. "Any flour or raw eggs used to make raw dough or batter might be contaminated with harmful germs," the CDC said in a statement as it strongly warned the public never to taste raw dough or batter. People can get sick from the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli at an average of three to four days after ingesting the germ. Among the most common symptoms of the illness include diarrhea with blood, severe stomach cramps, and vomiting. It usually takes a week to recover from the illness, but more serious cases could take longer. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A bill that allows doctors to prescribe medical marijuana to patients instead of opioid has been signed into law in Colorado. On Thursday, May 23, Governor Jared Polis signed Senate Bill 13, which aims to help curb opioid addiction. The law will be effective starting Aug. 12. "Even in states with flourishing nonmedical cannabis markets, it is important to remember that thousands of people count on cannabis as a medicine," stated David Mangone of Americans for Safe Access, a group that lobbies for medical marijuana, in an interview with The Denver Post. Mangone predicted that the new law will reduce the number of people dying from an opioid overdose. Colorado Gives Thumbs Up To Medical Marijuana Under the new law, doctors can recommend medical marijuana to alleviate the symptoms of conditions for which opioids are prescribed to treat. Colorado already permits the use of medical marijuana to treat cancer, glaucoma, post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD, HIV and AIDS, and other conditions that cause seizures, nausea, and severe pain. The law applies to adult and minor patients. However, people who are under the age of 18 must take medical marijuana in non-smokeable form, especially when using it in school grounds or in public transportation. The House voted 47-16, passing the bill with the support of Democrats and some Republicans. In the Senate, only two conservatives voted against the bill: Republican Senators John Cooke of Greeley and Bob Gardner of Colorado Springs. Medical Community Cautious Of New Medical Marijuana Law The new law, however, draws concern from some members of the medical community. Stephanie Stewart, a physician who treats patients suffering from addiction, said that people might seek the use of marijuana instead of the treatment prescribed by their doctors. "Our real concern is that a patient would go to a physician with a condition that has a medical treatment with evidence behind it, and then instead of that treatment, they would be recommended marijuana instead," she told The Denver Post. "This will substitute marijuana for an FDA-approved medication something that's unregulated for something that's highly regulated." People who support the new law argued that medical marijuana is a safer form of treatment that will limit the use of opioid, which, according to public health experts, have reached epidemic levels. According to the Centers for the Disease Control and Prevention, in 2017, 68 percent of over 70,200 drug overdoses in the United States involved either precription or illegal opioids. On average, 130 Americans die from opioid overdose everyday. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A new report by Citi claims that Apple iPhone sales could halve in the coming months due to Chinese patriotism. Chinese citizens are more likely to pick national, Chinese brands over American ones. The US/China trade situation will result in a slowdown of Apple iPhone demand in China as China residents shift their purchasing preference to China national brands, Citi commented. Apple products not only arent seen as that desirable anymore, but theyre also hurt by tariffs and sanctions that make manufacturing more expensive and ultimately leads to increased prices. Apple has been slowly moving their manufacturing to India to, but not exclusively, avoid some of the sanctions placed on Chinese imports to the US. This causes a lot of trouble for Apple who is supplying parts from different regions of the world, including China and the US. The Trade War has caused a lot of emotional insult towards the average Chinese citizen, leading to the informal Apple Boycott in China. China is a huge market for Apple, as pointed out by Citi, and losing it or its trust would be a gigantic blow to the Cupertino company: China represents 18% of Apple sales which we believe could be cut in half, [via CNBC Up in the Makhonjwa Mountains of South Africa is a sliver of volcanic rock originating from 3.3 billion years ago. More than its age, scientists are awestruck at what they found within the ancient rock: evidence of organic matter from outer space. "This is the very first time that we have found actual evidence for extraterrestrial carbon in terrestrial rocks," Frances Westall, study author and astrobiologist at the CNRS Centre for Molecular Biophysics, told New Scientist. Plenty of previous research have suggested that organic molecules that kick-started life on Earth came from outer space, brought to the planet by asteroids. Westell and her colleagues' new findings published in the journal Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta support these theories and open up more possibilities about extraterrestrial life. South America's Extraterrestrial Organic Matter In the Moakhonjwa Mountain region, the scientists analyzed a volcanic deposit known as the Josefsdal Chert. With the use of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, they discovered that a 2-millimeter rock layer in the deposit contained two types of organic matter that point distinctly at extraterrestrial origins. One of the strange EPR signals detected is similar to signals found in carbonaceous chondrites, which are primitive meteorites rich in organic compounds. The other anomalous signal suggests the presence of nanoparticles of nickel, chromium, and iron, which isn't typically seen in rocks of terrestrial origins. Known as cosmic spinels, these are formed upon the entry of extraterrestrial objects in the planet's atmosphere, according to study author Didier Gourier from PSL Research University in a paper published in 2018. The presence of these two EPR signals in such a thin layer of sediment from the same time period is something that's puzzling to the scientists, Science Alert notes. Hydrogenated organic matter from the carbonaceous chondrites survive only if the temperature of the falling object isn't any higher than a few hundred degrees, while cosmic spinels form only if the object melts from an extremely high temperature while falling to Earth. The authors hypothesized that the layer formed when a meteor impact created a cloud of dust particles that ended up getting preserved under a layer of volcanic ash. "The organic matter from the carbon-rich meteorites must have been raining down at quite a high rate," Westall said. The Hunt For Alien Life Becomes More Challenging While the study findings is significant and supports the theory that carbon-rich meteors deposited life-forming matter to Earth, it may make it more complicated to find evidence of life in other planets such as Mars. After all, the biosignature of organic matter deposited by asteroids can look very similar to the signature of life originating from a planet. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A type of bacteria typically found in the human gut may hold the key to retarding the development of Alzheimer's disease symptoms. Scientists at the University of Chicago are exploring the potential of using long-term antibiotic treatment to alter the microbiome in the gut. Research involving male mice has shown that such a therapy may help reduce inflammation and even slow amyloid plaque growth in the brain. Both of these are common signs of Alzheimer development in people. However, it is important to note that another experiment involving female mice did not yield similar results. Impact Of Gut Microbiome On Alzheimer Symptoms The gastrointestinal tract is home to a collection of bacteria that are generally considered harmless. These microorganisms are known to influence the body's immune system, which is why they can affect the onset of different diseases, even those in the brain and other distant tissues. Sangram S. Sisodia, director of University of Chicago's Center for Molecular Neurobiology, said there is recent evidence to suggest that gut bacteria may play a key role in the development of certain neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, autism spectrum disorders, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. Alzheimer's, in particular, often begins with a buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain. It also triggers the production of immune cells called microglia, which the body uses to help expel the plaques from the organ. However, the activation of these cells may also worsen the impact of the degenerative disease by causing neuroinflammation. People suffering from Alzheimer's disease have experienced changes in the microbiome of their gut. Meanwhile, in their experiment, Sisodia and his team observed how these intestinal bacteria can affect the onset of disease symptoms in mice. By targeting these microorganisms using long-term antibiotic treatment, the researchers believe it may help retard the development of amyloid plaques and limit the activation of microglia cells. This was seen in rodents that had mutant proteins typically linked to Alzheimer's disease. However, the team clarified that earlier studies showing the impact of gut microbiome on amyloid plaque buildup were only limited to a single strain of mice. Long-Term Antibiotic Treatment In Mice Sisodia and his colleagues focused their experiment on a different mouse model carrying Alzheimer's symptoms known as APPS1-21. To observe the impact of antibiotics on the mice, the researchers subjected the animals to long-term treatment using a cocktail of drugs. While the medication helped reduce amyloid plaque buildup in male mice, no similar effects were observed among females. The antibiotic treatment may have also altered microglia activation in male rodents. Instead of having cells that promote the degeneration of the brain, the animals had microglia that helped keep their brain healthy throughout the study. The researchers later confirmed these observations by transplanting fecal matter from untreated mice into rodents that have undergone antibiotic treatment. This restored the mice's gut microbiome, resulting in an increase in the formation of amyloid plaque and the activation of microglia cells. Sisodia and his team found out that long-term antibiotic treatment affected intestinal bacteria differently for male and female rodents. The procedure caused the immune system of female mice to increase its production of proinflammatory factors, which in turn may have impacted microglia activation. "Our study shows that antibiotic-mediated perturbations of the gut microbiome have selective, sex-specific influences on amyloid plaque formation and microglial activity in the brain," Sisodia explained. "We now want to investigate whether these outcomes can be attributed to changes in any particular type of bacteria." The findings of the University of Chicago study are featured in the Journal of Experimental Medicine. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A 1-year-old dog, who received a revolutionary skin grafting procedure earlier this year, is now well on her way to recovery. Stella the Rottweiler underwent surgery at Michigan State University in February to help repair severe burns on her body. She received the injuries after she was left alone in a burning house. MSU vets operated on the poor dog to replace her damaged skin with those taken from fish. This allowed her wounds to heal properly. After several weeks of recovery, Stella is now back to being a relatively active pup. "Stella's will to live was amazing; she never quit fighting," said Rose Wahl, a veterinary technician at MSU and one of those who helped the dog after she was brought to the university. "Her resilience and strength have astounded everyone who has worked with her." The Day Of The Accident Stella's owners were away from their home in Lansing when the building suddenly caught fire. While she was able to escape their burning house, she sustained severe second- and three-degree burns on more than 10 percent of her body. The incident also left the dog with scarred eyes and serious breathing problems after she inhaled too much smoke. Stella was taken to MSU's Veterinary Medical Center, where she was given intravenous fluids and oxygen to help her breath. After her condition stabilized, she underwent soft tissue surgery to address the severe burns on her body. Her scarred eyes were also treated by MSU ophthalmologists. Brea Sandness, one of the vets who operated on Stella, explained that they had to be creative in how they treated the dog's wounds because of the trauma to her lungs. They could not give Stella anesthesia because of the injuries to her respiratory system. Replacing Stella's Damaged Skin With Fish Skin The MSU surgical team had to explore less traditional methods to help fix Stella's burned skin. They came up with a skin grafting procedure where they would replace her burned skin with a material made from descaled cod fish skins. The fish-skin products were donated by Kerecis, an Iceland-based company that specializes in creating such products for treatment of skin injuries on humans and animals. Cod skin made an ideal candidate as skin graft because of its tissue composition, as well as its high omega-3 fatty acid content. These helped give the material anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties, which is crucial for healing and skin regeneration. Applying cod skin grafts also do not require putting patients in heavy sedation during surgery. Sandness said they were able to operate on Stella with minimal sedation. This helped her wounds heal properly without causing any additional stress to her damaged lungs. The researchers believe the descaling of the cod skins was the key to making them into better skin grafts than others fish-based materials. Sandness said descaled grafts have the ability to stimulate cell production and even become functional, living tissue later on. The material can be replaced as often as required for burn injuries. In Stella's case, the fish-based grafts were absorbed by the dog's body and facilitated the growth of new tissue into the replacement skin. The burns on Stella's body are healing well, according to the researchers. However, she is still having difficulties breathing because of her respiratory issues. She will have to be monitored closely and cared for throughout her life. "Stella is one of the bravest and strongest patients I've ever encountered," Wahl noted. "Not only did she show incredible endurance and resilience, she has maintained a sweet and kind attitude throughout this whole ordeal." 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Apple could be adding support for dual Bluetooth audio connection to its next-generation iPhone, according to a rumor. If it turns out to be true, then users could soon have more options when it comes to listening to music and the like. iPhone Rumors Citing an Asian supply chain as its source, Japanese blog Mac Otakara says (via Mac Rumors) that the next iPhone, presumably called the iPhone 11, will be able to connect to two Bluetooth devices at the same time. For instance, a song could play on a pair of Bluetooth headphones and a speaker simultaneously. As another example, the phone could connect to wireless headphones and a smart car system, streaming audio to the earphones while sending GPS directions to the car's sound system. It should be mentioned that the current iPhone is already capable of connecting to multiple Bluetooth devices, but it supports only one audio profile. Familiar Feature This isn't the first time a feature like this has rolled out to smartphones. Samsung already introduced such a function on the Galaxy S8 called Dual Audio Feature, allowing users to play songs and the like on two Bluetooth earphones or speakers using their phone or tablet. Mac Otakara says that the iPhone's dual Bluetooth audio connection support would work in a similar way. It's unclear what the iPhone model in question exactly is, though it's assumed to be the iPhone 11. Samsung's Dual Audio Feature is based on Bluetooth 5.0, which suggests that Apple's development would be built on it too. If true, older phones such as the iPhone 8 and iPhone X could get the feature by way of a software update. For the uninitiated, Mac Otakara is a website that's reliable when it comes to Apple rumors, providing plenty of early information in the past that has proven to be accurate. In other words, there's a good chance that a feature like this for iPhones is really in the works. Still, it's recommended to take this with a grain of salt. The next-generation iPhones are expected to be unveiled in September 2019, and according to the rumor mill, there are three models in the cards: 5.8- and 6.5-inch iPhones with OLED displays and three cameras and a 6.1-inch iPhone with an LCD screen and two cameras, all of which are said to sport redesigned antennas. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Christian Davenport says he was born a poet. Thirty years later, hes Baton Rouges poet laureate. Davenport, who uses Cubs the Poet as his byline, was announced earlier this month as the inaugural holder of that title by Mayor Sharon Weston Broome. He describes the position as a yearlong literary effort. "I feel honored to be the first poet to begin writing the poem. The poem that will express the evolution of Baton Rouge's soul. The poem that will give voice to the narratives not yet heard. The poem that will potentially create a language of love, especially in the time of political tension, societal reformation and identity expansion," Davenport said. "We are all poems, and I feel fortunate, to be the first poet to see to the articulation of our great city's culture." Davenport was born and lived his early childhood in Baton Rouge. Hes spent much of his adult life here or in New Orleans, creating poetry often for an audience of one. Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome selects Baton Rouge's first poet laureate Baton Rouge native Christian Davenport will serve as the city-parish's first poet laureate a position that comes with a $5,000 stipend to co His method is spontaneous poetry. After a short encounter with someone, Davenport immediately writes a poem, banging it out on a manual typewriter using the words and thoughts that arose from their conversation. Im personally excited about the fact that hes practicing a form of poetry that is new and really sort of the rage right now, the spontaneous poetry, said Renee Chatelain, president of the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge and a member of the committee that advised Broome on the selection. You dont see a lot of typewriter poets, and hes one of them," she added. "Its the idea of having conversations with a particular group of people in our community and using the words and writing on the spot, which I kind of find fascinating. Theres a story behind Davenport's pen name, "Cubs." His mother was born in India, and he watched Bollywood (Hindi films) as a child. He couldnt pronounce the name of his favorite character and called him Cubs. I use that name to just kind of pay homage to that side of my family, he said. As I grew up, I kind of made it into an acronym: Can U Believe in Something? It just stuck with me. People just liked saying it. After his second-grade year, Davenports family moved to Frederick, Maryland, where he graduated from high school. He then returned to Louisiana, majoring in psychology at Dillard University in New Orleans. The subject led him to conclude that much of his education was teaching specific schools of thought rather than how to think for himself. During one summer break back in Frederick, Davenport fell asleep while the television was on. Hes not sure if it was the television or a vivid dream that suggested it, but he awoke wanting to write a poem. He wrote Do You Like Poetry? Davenport took the poem to Market Street, a popular shopping and dining area in Frederick. When people would walk by, I would ask them, Do you like poetry? he said. It was to get them to say yes or no, and then I would recite the poem. The rest is pretty much the evolution of that. When he returned to Dillard, Davenport noticed artists and musicians along Royal Street and decided to follow their lead. He set up on Royal Street with his typewriter, listened to the conversations of passersby and started writing poetry. People began noticing and talking with him, and, for a fee, he wrote poems for the individuals who did. That became his passion, and now it's his career. Davenport hasnt finished his psychology degree, though he is still working on it. Writing on the street in the Quarter, its a little manic, he said. You have tourists from all of the country or the world. Then, you have homeless people. You have different types of people. I would write multiple different types of poems in one day. I progressed into weddings, because those at least have a central theme of love, relationships, stuff like that. Davenport also has written a book, which he plans to release soon. In addition to being recognized for his work, the new poet laureate will be expected to share his love of poetry with nontraditional and underserved audiences and hold community workshops in coordination with the Arts Council. Poet laureates at the state level usually have had a long career and theyre published, and hes gotten in publications as well, Chatelain said. But this is sort of looking at somebody whos a young professional in the field looking forward and bringing new trends to the city in a really compelling way. To me thats exciting. Where To Go, What To Eat Each week we'll highlights the best eats and events in metro Baton Rouge. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Do You Like Poetry? BY CUBS THE POET My doors peephole, peeps souls secretly slipping by in the shadows. Ive seen scenes in my dreams who is to know if I am even awake? Whats at stake? But a second of well-done perfection. Either I make a way or give a way? I sweepstakes and lottery tickets underneath welcome mats, Because Ive seen homeless professor sleeping next to sewers While they teach us to chase green paper that falls down from skyscrapers. Im the only one with my hands up. Five fingers feeling for freedom from free! Have you ever had, five fingers feeling for freedom from free? The wind blowing soul away from the bayou, We no longer make wishes when blowing out candles. We are the generation that grew up before it died. Spoiled kids with monopoly reaching for the skies Grabbing clouds and cleaning stars. Life, Is but a bathroom break from sitting in the waiting room And I am too busy reciting poetry. The ongoing trade war between China and the United States has forced many of Apples suppliers to look at other regions for setting up their manufacturing plants. This morning, Pegatron signed a letter of intent and announced that it will be investing up to $1 billion to build a factory that would make chips for Apple smartphones. Pegatron plans on assembling the chips in partnership with Indonesian electronics company PT Sat Nusapersada. The factory will be located on the island of Batam. Initially, Deputy Minister Waristo Ignatius told that the factory would be used to produce chips, though later he clarified that the raw materials would be imported and the chips would be assembled in the factory. The factory can also be used by Pegatron down the line to produce MacBook components for Apple. Pegatron is one of Apples key supply chain partner and assembles a number of devices for the company. It is still a smaller player when compared to Foxconn which assembles and manufactures a number of Apple products and their key components. Our Take Pegatron was Apples first manufacturing partner to have set up an iPhone assembly factory in India. Now, Foxconn is also joining the bandwagon and is looking to set up an iPhone factory in the country to produce newer high-end iPhones. With the trade war between China and the United States getting worse, more and more companies are likely to look elsewhere to set up their manufacturing facilities in a bid to minimize the impact of this battle on their production and bottom line. [Via Reuters While residents in the Spanish Town Historic District want the city-parish to regulate the short-term rentals in their neighborhood, a proposed ordinance that surfaced recently is not what they had in mind. "(It's) basically trying to take away the property rights of people who live here," said Mary Jane Marcantel, a board member and spokeswoman of the Historic Spanish Town Civic Association. "It needs to be modified." Many residents have grown frustrated with the growing number of short-term rentals in the neighborhood, and the excessive noise and parking nightmares that have accompanied them. They also want to block more outside developers from coming in and renovating dilapidated properties just to turn them into mini-motels with no onsite management. However, Marcantel and other longtime residents of the downtown neighborhood are annoyed they were excluded from discussions among their Metro Council representative, downtown officials and lobbyists taking up the interests of outside investors and the Airbnb industry that led up to the proposed ordinance circulating through the community. +6 Short-term rentals in BR: Spanish Town residents ask Metro Council for 'sensible regulations' Residents in one of the Baton Rouge's oldest neighborhoods have launched a crusade for regulations to prevent vacant homes being flipped into Their Metro Council representative, Tara Wicker, claims that's not true and stressed that the ordinance they've seen is just a draft and nothing is set in stone. "After I met with the select group of people who reached out to me about this to come up with a proposal, my intention was to always have a community meeting to get their input before bringing anything to the Metro Council," Wicker said. But it's starting to feel like the debate over short-term rentals, which are commonly rented through sites like Airbnb, could flare up like it did in New Orleans and other metropolitan cities across the nation. Some cities have either banned such rentals or adopted restrictive measures requiring property owners to live on-site. The copy of the proposed ordinance obtained by The Advocate shows it would establish a $500 permitting fee for short-term rentals in the city's historic overlay districts and require that a permit be prominently displayed within the property if applicants meet all the mandated guidelines and on-site inspections by the city-parish. Any person who advertises a property as a short-term rental without first obtaining a permit would face a fine of $100 per day for each day the property was illegally advertised, up to the maximum of $1,500, the proposal states. The proposal also would limit the number of occupants at short-term rentals to twice the number of permitted bedrooms, with a maximum of 12 occupants, and prohibits consecutive rentals by the same renter. Spanish Town residents' ire with the ordinance proposal lies with a stipulation that caps the number of short-term rentals in operation at one time in historic neighborhoods at "no more than 3 percent." 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 Marie Constantin, a 20-year Spanish Town homeowner, is worried the stipulation opens the door for outside investors with pull at City Hall to swoop in, obtain permits and then buy up properties and flip them into short-term rentals until the 3 percent cap is reached. Such a scenario would bar residents there from converting their properties into short-term rentals in the future if they choose, she said. "If you're an investor with a whole house you want to turn into an Airbnb, we don't want you here," Constantin said. "We want owner-occupied short-term rentals." Constantin and Debbie Daniel, another longtime homeowner in Spanish Town, said a recent "whole house" rental to 12 guests resulted in loud parties and parking nightmares for them over the course of a weekend. Parking is so scarce in Spanish Town a city-parish ordinance limits residents to one parking pass each and two additional passes for visitors. Marcantel said the president of the neighborhood association, who said he was recusing himself from the matter because he and his wife have two properties they rent through Airbnb, attended at least one of the meetings Wicker had with officials. Collin Richie, president of the Historic Spanish Town Civic Association, said he did meet with city leaders and did express concerns before stepping aside and suggesting Marcantel step forward on the matter. He declined to say what his thoughts were. Davis Rhorer, executive director of the Downtown Development District, attended a meeting and echoed Wicker's sentiments that nothing about the draft is finial and that resident feedback is necessary. A spokesman for Airbnb did not respond to questions regarding the topic. Wicker said it's clear residents want to "maintain and protect the integrity of the neighborhood." "We know we don't want a block of properties that are Airbnbs there and the 3 percent cap felt like a logical way to make sure that didn't happen after looking at what other cities have done," she said. "There is no way we're going to please everyone. And whether we like it or not, Airbnbs are here to stay." Constantin said the city should look at best practices from other cities for a solution. Researchers recently found that inmate self-harm in solitary confinement at Louisiana state prisons increases as the heat index rises, raising concern that high temperatures are affecting inmates' well-being in dorms without air-conditioning, especially those held in some of the most restrictive housing units. Though a years-long lawsuit over extremely hot conditions on Louisiana's death row a unit that houses about 75 inmates has neared a settlement that includes accommodations to help keep prisoners there cool, the unofficial start of summer this Memorial Day weekend marks what can be the most grueling, and dangerous, season for the thousands more in prison, including about 1,400 in other solitary confinement units. In restrictive housing or 'cellblocks,' where prisoners are confined to a cell for at least 22 hours a day, researchers with the national nonprofit Vera Institute of Justice found that the average number of self-harm incidents per month was much higher when the average heat index was above 100 degrees: in June, July and August. This data, presented in Vera Institute of Justice's Safe Alternatives to Segregation report released earlier this month, was compiled from 2015 and 2016. Corrections officials have noted the number of prisoners living in these conditions, which they call restrictive housing typically used for discipline, have dropped significantly since then. Mental health providers and nurses also told researches they noticed more frequent suicide watches and self-harm behaviors in the summer months, "which they attributed to physical discomfort, psychological deterioration, and an attempt to exit the segregation tier to consult the psychiatrist in a part of the prison where there is air-conditioning," the report says. The report also found that unbearable heat interferes with the mental health care prisoners receive, as staff are deterred from conducting full rounds in sweltering conditions. The report references other studies not focused on prisons that have found "significant relationships between heat exposures, psychological distress, aggression, and different forms of violence." Most living quarters at state prisons have no air-conditioning. Advocates and attorneys point to the segregation or isolation tiers as the most dangerous, where ventilation is more limited and inmate movement is restricted. "We're not dealing with heat here, we're dealing with extreme heat," said Mercedes Montagnes, the executive director of the Promise of Justice Initiative, a New Orleans-based criminal justice nonprofit. "In this day and age, it's unconscionable." After 6-year legal battle, Louisiana death row 'heat index' suit nearing final resolution A 6-year-old lawsuit that claims high heat indexes on Louisiana's death row subjects three ailing condemned killers to cruel and unusual punis Montagnes led the litigation for the death row heat lawsuit, which claimed high heat indexes exacerbated by death row facilities created unconstitutional confinement, putting ailing inmates at risk of serious injury or death. Her initial filings claimed temperatures in the inmates' cells often reached well above 100 degrees. "The death row lawsuit is a drop in the bucket," Montagnes said, referencing the hundreds of other inmates in solitary units. "These are places that heat up very quickly and they are boxed in." But Department of Corrections spokesman Ken Pastorick explained that dormitories without air-conditioning, even restrictive housing, were built to allow ventilation without air-conditioning. He also said high-quality fans are in all prison living spaces and inmates are provided cold water and ice. There are seven men's dormitories with air-conditioning across all state prisons, Pastorick said, and all women's dorms have air-conditioning. He also said all prison infirmaries and almost all cafeterias are air-conditioned. The department's policy on heat pathology outlines precautions to take from May through October, especially once heat indexes reach 88 degrees. They include identifying heat-sensitive inmates, providing additional showers and wet towels as well as limiting outdoor work and increasing ventilation and fans when possible. Pastorick also pointed out that heat is not an issue unique to prisons, as many people work outside in Louisiana summers and some live without air-conditioning. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, 94 percent of all homes in the country's hot-humid region in 2015, which includes all of Louisiana, had air-conditioning equipment, either central or window/wall units. 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 But for the few people living without air-conditioning, Montagnes said it's not comparable to life behind bars, as free people have the ability to go to a public building with cool air prisoners, especially in confinement, cannot. She noted that almost all animal shelters in Louisiana have air-conditioning. While the Vera report recommended the Department of Corrections decrease the use of solitary housing and make all facilities air-conditioned, they also outlined some short-term changes, like providing clinicians an air-conditioned room for patient consultations, prioritizing air-conditioning housing for the medically vulnerable and designating a cool space for corrections officers to take breaks. Corrections Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc said he is looking into the more short-term fixes, calling them reasonable. "We're doing everything that we can (to have) a good living environment," LeBlanc told the Advocate. "I wish I could air-condition the entire prison, but again, it's a resource issue. Our officers have to work in the same environment. But we are going to make some adjustments." While Montagnes is glad to hear progress is in the works, she said Louisiana needs to prioritize these issues. "The idea that this is an extremely expensive thing to do is not true," Montagnes said. "Compared against health care costs, it might be cheaper to provide A/C than not." Louisiana's neighbor Texas has, in recently years, added air-conditioning to some state prisons mostly forced through a serious of lawsuits, including ones over inmates' heat-related deaths. In one case, officials estimated providing air-conditioning at a College Station prison would cost more than $20 million, but in actuality, it cost about $4 million, according to The Texas Tribune. And while Louisiana has not had a trail of heat-related deaths in prisons jump-start such changes like in Texas, Montagnes said she worries heat could be contributing to in-custody deaths, even if it's not listed as the official cause. +3 Louisiana prisons over-rely on solitary confinement, report finds, but leaders committed to progress Louisiana state prisons have over-relied on solitary confinement and have been employing troubling and inconsistent practices in recent years, But Pastorick said in the last three years, no inmates have died of heat-related causes in Louisiana. Pastorick said corrections officials reviewed causes of death for heat stroke, heat exhaustion or other heat-related issues. Either way, the heat issue needs to be promptly addressed, inmate activists say, especially as climate researchers predict heat indexes will rise in Louisiana in coming years and the prison population continues to age. "We really worry about people who are locked up in those cells in the extreme heat who don't have the ability to leave the cell," said Katie Schwartzmann, the ACLU of Louisiana's legal director, also currently suing the corrections department over poor conditions at a Homer prison. "You really are at the mercy at the staff. It's dangerous." While Livingston Parish detectives were gathering evidence in an August 2018 homicide, the suspect they've since identified was accused in another homicide that occurred months later in Baton Rouge. The bodies of the two victims, both shot, were found dumped in unusual locations. Livingston authorities announced Tuesday the arrest of Kevin Dukes, 43. The most recent accusations implicate Dukes in the August 2018 shooting death of Fermin Pecina, 38, who was found dead off Hood Road in Livingston Parish. Four months after Pecina's killing, Dukes was arrested and accused of shooting another man whose body was wrapped in a tarp and dumped in the middle of South Flannery Road, a quiet residential neighborhood in Baton Rouge. Dukes was released on $300,000 bail in the days following that arrest and appears to have remained free until this week, court records show. He's now being held without bond in Livingston Parish jail. Livingston authorities released almost no details about their investigation Tuesday, saying only that detectives found enough evidence to make the arrest. They also made no mention of Dukes' criminal record. Body found off Hood Road Friday is ID'd; Man died of gunshot wound, Livingston Sheriff says The body found off Hood Road in Livingston Parish early Friday morning has been identified as a missing Texas man. "We never give up. We keep pushing. We follow the evidence," Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard said in a news release. "And that is what led to this new development. A motive is still unclear. But these veteran detectives are continuing to look at and examine all the facts of this case." 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 Pecina had been staying in the Baton Rouge area for a few weeks when he was found dead from a gunshot wound last August. He was originally from Texas, and his family had reported him missing in the days leading up to his death, authorities said. Investigators estimated Pecina had been dead at least eight hours before he was found. In the December case that unfolded in Baton Rouge, Dukes is accused of killing Julius Thomas Sr., 55, and then dumping his body. Authorities said Thomas was shot at Dukes' paint and body shop, King of Karz LA on Old Hammond Highway. The victim's family told investigators the two men had an ongoing feud over a large amount of money that Thomas owed Dukes. Deputies executed search warrants the following day and found an abundance of evidence: an "excessive amount of blood" on Dukes' car and outside his business, along with a fired cartridge case and a bullet projectile. Detectives also discovered a box of ammunition inside his house that matched the cartridge case recovered from the scene. +4 Arrest made in death of man found wrapped in tarp; victim owed him money, officials say A Baton Rouge business owner was arrested Wednesday afternoon in the shooting death of a 55-year-old man whose body was found wrapped in a tar Dukes turned himself in and was arrested later that day. Authorities note in court documents that his criminal history includes previous felony convictions for first-degree robbery, false imprisonment with a dangerous weapon, simple robbery, aggravated battery and felon in possession of a firearm. He now faces two additional counts: second-degree murder, one in East Baton Rouge and one in Livingston. Court records show that Dukes was indicted last month in the East Baton Rouge case. He pleaded not guilty on Tuesday, and Livingston authorities took him into custody after his court appearance in Baton Rouge, said Livingston Parish Sheriff's spokeswoman Lori Steele. Eddie Rispone, the wealthy Baton Rouge businessman-turned-GOP candidate for governor, finds his campaign in a bit of a dust-up over a West Baton Rouge billboard slogan. I bought this billboard so the injury lawyers couldnt, Rispone announces in bold, dark letters on the sign, right next to a photo of the white-haired candidate smiling in a suit, his arms crossed casually. The billboard had been there for a month, the winking phrase and the smiling candidate looking down on the motorists chugging along the interstate toward the Mississippi River bridge, when the Rispone campaign got a letter from a lawyer accusing them of plagiarism and asking them to take it down. Last summer, a Lafayette advertising agency called Burning Stick Creative put up a billboard for a lawyer who used a cheeky phrase that singled out a prominent Baton Rouge personal injury lawyer, whose folded arms image is on a prolific number of billboards around the state: We bought this billboard so that Gordon McKernan couldnt. The phrasing and look of Rispone's billboard is too close to last summer's advertisement, the letter alleges. +7 Gordon McKernan, E. Eric Guirard settle Baton Rouge legal feud -- but not their differences The bitter feud between Baton Rouge personal injury lawyers Gordon McKernan and E. Eric Guirard is done playing out publicly over television a So, is a single billboard whats at stake? Just one outdoor sign in a race for governor thatll see millions spent on advertising in hopes of swaying potential voters? Not if you ask the Rispone campaign. They see something a bit bigger, and more sinister, at play. The demand to take down the billboard was a calculated political attack designed to smear the Republican candidate by the cabal of injury attorneys whove lined up behind sitting Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards, Rispone campaign communications director Anthony Ramirez wrote in an acerbic, defiant response mailed Friday. Ramirez closed the letter by vowing that we will not take the billboard down. The Rispone campaigns response on Friday contended the First Amendment protected the campaigns use of the phrase as political speech and satire. The billboard, Ramirez wrote, was designed to mock and parody the sad state of Louisianas legal system. Ramirez pointed out the lawyer who penned the letter, Charles Brandt, is himself an Edwards supporter. The complaint over the billboard slogan is a veiled attempt by Edwards to attack his opponents campaign, Ramirez charged. Absolutely not, Brandt said by phone on Friday. It's got nothing to do with Edwards. I didn't even think how it might impact on the Edwards campaign, that didn't occur to me. Brandt acknowledges he supports the current governor, but said he had no intention of causing a political fracas with the letter. It just happens that Burning Stick Creative also handles all the advertising for Brandt & Sherman, Brandt said, so when the agencys founder, Amy Jones, asked him to fire off a letter, he happily agreed. 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 I'm not going to attack Eddie Rispone. I don't know who he is or what qualities he has. He may make a fine governor, Brandt said. I was just representing Burning Stick. They're my advertising agency. I'm chuckling that the Rispone campaign took that as a way to attack the person who wrote the letter rather than the person who made the complaint, said Jones, who runs Burning Stick Creative as CEO. It's ridiculous. Jones said she was simply cheesed when she saw Rispone ripped off her billboard which she said stirred up a lot of buzz around her firm and went viral online with a near-identical joke. Jones noted Rispones tagline varied only a couple of words from hers, swapping out McKernans name to make a more general swipe at the profession. If you're running for governor, it might help if you show you can come up with original ideas, said Jones, who said shes regularly done political advertising work including for Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser and former Congressman Charles Boustany, both Republicans, as well as for local candidates from both parties around Lafayette but never for Edwards. Gov. Edwards re-election campaign also denied playing any role in Rispones billboard imbroglio. Ramirez, to punctuate his contention the billboard spat was really a political hit job on Rispone by the governors backers, highlighted just over $100,000 in donations from Brandt & Sherman, its attorneys and other lawyers and firms using the same Mercury Street address in Lafayette, a total that includes a handful of contributions as far back as 2010, when Edwards was a state representative from Amite. Louisiana Democrats have for years drawn deep-pocketed support from lawyers who represent injured plaintiffs, in part because Republicans more often backed by insurance companies and business interests have loudly called for so-called tort reform to cut down on lawsuits and court-ordered payouts. +2 Push to ban new Louisiana highway billboards crushed in House committee A bid to put a moratorium on new highway billboards, in part because of anger over anti-trucker ads sponsored by trial lawyers, was killed Tue Rispones disputed billboard went up just as the Louisiana Legislature prepared to grapple over a series of bills thatd change how courts handle injury claims. The Republican backers of the measures argue the changes to the courts could eventually lower the states high car insurance rates while opponents say theyd leave those hurt in accidents at an unfair disadvantage to the insurance companies. A pair of Republican state lawmakers also fought to impose limits on the number of billboards in the state. The proposals backers, Metairie state Sen. Conrad Appel and Jonesboro state Rep. Jack McFarland, described it as an effort to cut down on unsightly clutter along roads that might distract drivers. But their bills, which were both quickly killed by legislative committees, were widely seen as an attack on personal injury lawyers that extensively use billboards to recruit clients. Trucking firms also pushed for the ban, arguing they felt demonized by law firm ads targeting those hurt in wrecks with big rigs. Eric Holl, an Edwards campaign spokesman, quickly noted that Rispone had received donations from the very trial lawyers he claims to despise, pointing to a recent $1,000 contribution from McKernan and another $5,000 check from the Whaley Law Firm, another Baton Rouge personal injury group. Two weeks ago, a client asked wedding planner Michele Adams to inquire about organizing a party for 150 out-of-town guests at NOLA Brewery in New Orleans. Adams client had visited the small brewery on Tchoupitoulas Street in the Irish Channel and liked the casual, gritty vibe. But Adams had to tell her client that state law prohibits craft breweries from serving outside wine or Champagne, even at catered events like a pre-wedding party. That they could not have outside alcohol was a deal-breaker for them, said Adams, who runs Unique Weddings in New Orleans. The client held the party elsewhere. Craft breweries tried to eliminate the restriction in this years legislative session via House Bill 246, sponsored by state Rep. Scott Simon, R-Abita Springs. Were asking for something we had before, David Blossman, the president and chief executive officer of Abita Brewing, easily Louisianas biggest craft brewer, told a legislative committee. The restriction has been in place since 2017, when the commissioner of Louisiana Alcohol and Tobacco Control, which regulates the industry, ruled that state law did not permit the outside alcohol. But craft brewers will have to wait at least another year. HB246 died before a legislative committee on Tuesday, killed by the Beer Industry League of Louisiana, which was representing the interests of beer distributors. That group wants to keep strict limits on what craft brewers can and cannot offer, fearful that even the smallest changes could unleash bigger changes that would threaten its existing businesses and investments. It was only the latest example of the Beer League quietly exerting its influence to protect beer distributors against the rise of craft breweries throughout Louisiana. Dylan Lintern, NOLA Brewerys president and chief executive officer, said in an interview that his brewery, which opened in 2009, has space for up to 400 people that it rents out between two and eight times per week. It could be double that easily if we were allowed to bring in wine and liquor, Lintern said. Its a big hindrance. Were not trying to get anything special, he added. Were just trying to be equal to the other event places that host private events. The rules for breweries in Louisiana are archaic. Louisiana now has 34 craft breweries, up from 12 in 2012. Its not just locals who are looking for something other than Bud Light or Miller High Life. Tourists now search out craft breweries in New Orleans and Baton Rouge and in such rural towns as Arnaudville and Broussard in Acadiana. +24 'Beer tourism' joins the New Orleans bucket list as small breweries spread When Courtney and Garrett Bogden visited New Orleans last week from their home in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, their itinerary included some touri But Louisiana ranks 48th among the 50 states in craft breweries per capita, according to the Brewers Association, even though the state had the 15th highest beer consumption nationally in 2016, the latest year statistics were available, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Blossman of Abita Brewery estimated that Louisiana's craft brewers account for about 5 percent of the beer sold in the state. Craft brewing has been growing exponentially around the country. It has been growing relatively slowly in Louisiana, Jacob Landry, founder of Urban South Brewery, located just a few blocks downriver from NOLA Brewery, told members of the House Judiciary Committee a month ago in support of HB246. Its one of the only industries if not the only industry where we have to go through a third party to get to market. Landry said he is opening up another brewery in Texas, where he will face fewer government restrictions. Most beer drinkers care little about how the adult beverage reaches their hand. But its of paramount interest to brewers, distributors and retail outfits. Can't see video below? Click here. As in other states, beer sales in Louisiana are highly regulated. The key enforcement mechanism is known as the three-tier system, which was established following the end of Prohibition in the 1930s. Brewers are in one tier, distributors in a second one and retailers in the third one. The system prevents brewers from distributing beer, distributors from owning breweries and retailers from getting their beer from anywhere but a distributor. The Beer League represents the beer industrys interests in Baton Rouge. The group has wielded outsized influence for decades. Until 2016, the Legislature had not raised the tax on beer since 1948. The Beer Leagues longtime executive director, John Williams, has a friendly style and is well-liked by legislators. He provides beer for their fundraisers, contributes money to their political campaigns and frequently hosts informal after-hours gatherings at the Beer Leagues office near the State Capitol. (This reporter has attended several events there.) Williams did not respond to two requests for an interview. +20 As New Orleans breweries return, tap rooms recast old industrial spaces as social hubs It's not hard to find a drink in New Orleans. But getting a beer straight from the source at one of the local breweries now proliferating here Some craft brewers belong to the Beer League, but the distributors seem to employ the biggest clout. 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 Perhaps as a result, the Louisiana ATC tends to side with the distributors against the craft brewers. Thats what happened last week. If you take it too far, you could really disrupt an entire industry that is built on decades and decades of compromises and set up a certain way, ATC attorney Brett Bonin told members of the Judiciary B Committee last week in comments that helped kill HB246. It seems like theres an incremental desire every year, every so many months [by craft breweries] to come back and see if they can get [changes to state law]. Bonin said the current three-tier system protects consumers and ensures that the state collects the taxes it is due. Bonin also said that creating exemptions for craft brewers to distribute or act as retailers in any manner would unfairly harm the distributors. When that money was invested, everybody knew what the rules were, he said. Cary Koch, executive director of the craft brewers association, praised Juana Marine-Lombard, the commissioner, for working with the brewers. But her rulings have clearly angered Kochs members. The Beer League also has showed some flexibility. In 2015, the distributors agreed to changes in state law that allowed smaller brewers to sell beer in taprooms on site. Still, distributors are loath to allow even seemingly minor changes in the system. State Sen. Sharon Hewitt, R-Slidell, learned that last year when she sponsored a bill that would have allowed startup craft breweries to distribute their own beer while they remained small, rather than have to rely on a beer distributor. More than 40 other states allow brewers in one way or another to sell directly to retailers. Newer breweries, as theyre trying to get started, have a hard time getting their product distributed at bars and restaurants, Hewitt said in an interview. There are so many of them. The distributors would rather work with the big guys. Hewitt was surprised to have to wade through a crowd in the Senate hallway on her way to the Judiciary B Committee, which would hear her Senate Bill 314. She noticed that most of the people were wearing decals with a slash through her bill number. They were beer distributors, and they had arrived early to fill the committee room. The craft brewers had to watch via closed circuit television in an overflow room. The committee killed SB314. It was kind of a David versus Goliath story, Hewitt recalled. The House Judiciary Committee approved HB246 this year, but only after amending it to limit craft breweries to holding no more than 12 events with outside alcohol per year. The Judiciary B Committee then killed the bill. State Sen. Norby Chabert, R-Houma, was among the lawmakers who helped deep-six both SB314 last year and HB246 this year. We have a system clearly outlined in law in what you have permits to do, Chabert said in an interview. When youre starting your business, thats what you say you want to do. Now they want to change the law once theyre up and going. +3 Here's why La. breweries fear closures after regulations, clash with state officials Louisiana brewery owners say they are concerned about their industrys future under new state regulations that impose requirements related to Karlos Knott founded Bayou Teche Brewery in Arnaudville with two brothers on farmland that has belonged to his family for more than 200 years. Knott left home after high school to enter the U.S. Army, saying he never again wanted to eat crawfish, a family staple. After a year in West Germany, I would have paid $100 for a plate of crawfish, he said. Knott returned to Arnaudville and brewed beer at home for a decade. One Sunday, we drank too much of what we made and decided to open a brewery with zero knowledge, he said while standing in the shade of a tree, a stones throw from the one-time railroad car that in 2009 served as the brothers first brewery. They outgrew it a year later and now operate 100 yards away in a red steel building with much of the equipment imported from Italy. He and his brothers have invested almost $2 million and have 13 employees. Bayou Teche, set among farms that grow soybeans and sugar cane, has a patio that fills with visitors on weekends. On Sundays, a Cajun band performs. On a recent day, two French tourists parked in the gravel parking lot and wanted to taste Bayou Teche's offerings. Knott fetched his Cajun French-speaking father to show them around. Like the other breweries, because of the outside alcohol ban, Knott has to turn away potential events in a meeting space next to the brewery. They get pretty unhappy, he told members of the House Judiciary Committee in Baton Rouge. Were not in the business of making our customers unhappy. They always [say], I cant understand. I can do this in Texas. I can do this in Mississippi. Can I just sneak a bottle in? No, he said he tells them. You cant do that either. Most would agree the goal of any new government entitlement program should be to give someone a hand up, not a handout. The last thing you would want a government program to do is encourage a participant to stop paying his own way. But that appears to be exactly what one of Gov John Bel Edwards' self-proclaimed signature achievements is doing. Edwards, a Democrat, created more than 500,000 new government dependents by using his pen to expand Medicaid under Obamacare in July 2016. Edwards defended the expansion as a way to reduce the number of those in Louisiana without health insurance. But a new report from the Pelican Institute, a New Orleans-based policy organization that promotes free-market principles, found as many as 35% of new enrollees under Edwards' Medicaid expansion already had health insurance. The study found thousands dropped their coverage to get in on the free health insurance they suddenly qualified for thanks to Edwards. What happens if Obamacare is overturned? John Bel Edwards, Jeff Landry clash over solutions Political bickering between Louisiana's governor and attorney general over potential fallout from a lawsuit seeking to overturn the federal Af The Louisiana Department of Health disputes that figure, claiming only 2% of new Medicaid enrollees had previous coverage. The Pelican Institute's Chris Jacobs says LDHs low number relies on a LSU survey of the states entire low-income population. But Jacobs says even LSU researchers admit the metric LDH is using is not the best way to determine what percent of new Medicaid enrollees previously had insurance. Jacobs, through a public records request, unearthed some of LDHs own internal numbers for the month of August 2017 showing 35 percent of Medicaid enrollees that month previously had insurance but dropped their coverage. Of the 13,955 individuals newly enrolled in Medicaid expansion in August 2017, 4,957 had dropped private coverage within the prior 30 days. Louisiana senators refuse tax review of Medicaid eligibility State senators Monday shelved the latest effort to give Louisiana's legislative auditor access to income tax data to check Medicaid eligibilit In 2015, the Legislative Fiscal Office projected this would happen. The office predicted the state would spend between $900 million and $1.3 billion over five years providing coverage to individuals who dropped their private insurance to get on Medicaid once qualifying standards were lowered through expansion. The Pelican Institute claims taxpayers are now paying $461 million per year for Medicaid recipients who were previously paying for their insurance but dropped their coverage when Edwards expanded the entitlement program. Edwards often gloats about Medicaid expansion saving lives and improving health outcomes for the working poor people of our state. But according to the Pelican Institute, Edwards Medicaid expansion does more than help the working poor. It also benefits those who are well off. The institute reports a disturbing 1,600 enrollees signing up under Edwards' Medicaid expansion did so despite having six-figure incomes. Individuals earning $100,000 or more while enrolling in Medicaid, combined with LDHs failure to address the previously insured problem, point to the need for fundamental reform to Louisianas Medicaid program, said Jacobs. In addition to the scathing Pelican Institute report, three separate state Legislative Auditors Office investigations have discovered more than $100 million in widespread fraud involving Medicaid expansion. Despite that, on Monday, the Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs committee, by a 5-3 vote, rejected a bill allowing the Legislative Auditor access to more data involving potential Medicaid fraud. The bill, sponsored by Republican state Rep. Tony Bacala, of Prairieville, would allow state auditors to cross-check income tax disclosure statements on state tax returns with Medicaid enrollees applications. The vote failed along party lines, with Republicans voting for the legislation and Democrats rejecting it. Hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars likely are being spent on behalf of ineligible recipients, said Bacala. Dan Fagan: After shooting that changed his life, Steve Scalise struggles with forgiveness James Hodgkinson was a man of hate especially when it came to Republicans. The 66-year old former home inspector from Illinois belonged to F Its reasonable to assume Democrats killed legislation shedding more light on Medicaid fraud to save the governor embarrassment with a program he considers one of his signature achievements. Or maybe theyre hoping that creating new dependents will potentially lead to more voters. Medicaid enrollment has far exceeded growth estimates since expansion. This monstrosity of a government program is expected to grow an additional 7.5% this year. Approximately 15,000 new people sign up for Medicaid in Louisiana each month at a cost to taxpayers of more than $6,000 per year per enrollee. Its a giant government program spending billions deserving the highest of scrutiny and attention. Email Dan Fagan at faganshow@gmail.com. Twitter: @DanFaganShow. Robert Heberts recent letter regarding the minimum wage was chock full of his usual right wing econo-babble. Hebert seems to live in a world Having lived in Baton Rouge for more than 30 years, Ive seen how our community has fallen behind. The lack of control over the minimum wage a Editor's note: This editorial, with modifications, has appeared in previous Fourth of July editions of The Advocate: In this photo taken May 21, 2019, Robert Collins, left, and Bobby Joe Branston watch rising waters in the Fishing River from a condemned bridge in the small community of Mosby, Mo. Federal and local governments have poured more than $5 billion into buying tens of thousands of private properties over the past few decades to try to diminish the long-term costs of repeated floods. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) ORG XMIT: MOCR212 A Louisiana House committee advanced a bill on Tuesday that would set 16 as the minimum age for marriage in the state. Louisiana currently does not have a legal minimum age for marriage. Minors need parental consent to get married, and if they are under 16 they need parental consent and the authorization from a juvenile court judge. Under the proposed law, sponsored by Sen. Yvonne Colomb, D-Baton Rouge, minors 16 and 17 seeking to get married would have to obtain the permission of a parent and a judge. Some committee members did not agree that 16 was old enough and contended that 18 would be the appropriate age. Rep. Tanner Magee, R-Houma, and Rep. Mike Johnson, R-Pineville, advocated for raising the age to 18. Referring to a bill that was struck down last week, Magee asked why lawmakers had supported a proposal that would have raised the minimum smoking age to 21, but not a child marriage ban. Louisiana House lawmakers last Thursday voted down a proposal for a higher smoking age. The bill would have raised the smoking age from 18 to 21 for tobacco, alternative nicotine or vaping products. Push to raise Louisiana smoking age to 21 fails again despite claims it could save state billions In an effort to accommodate legislators concerns, the proposed bill would have exempted first responders, military members and veterans. We want to trust [minors] to make the most important decision of their entire lives when their brains arent even fully formed yet, Magee said in the House Committee on Civil Law and Procedure. I think its very shortsighted of us. The more lightly we take it, the less serious people [will] take it, he added. The committee also approved an amendment to the marriage age bill that would limit the possible age difference to two years, instead of four. Legislators, including Magee, voiced concern at the idea of a 16 year old being able to marry a 20 year old under the proposed law. Its not a perfect bill and we dont live in a perfect world, but I think its a good start, Johnson said about the amendment after the meeting. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle agreed that certain circumstances, such as the right to receiving military benefits, would warrant underage spouses getting married to enlisted members. The proposal previously passed the Senate floor in a 22-15 vote after it was amended to set the minimum age at 16. During the committee hearing, Colomb said that 16 was the compromise chosen because it is the age required to get a drivers license in the state. Tigers Against Trafficking, a student organization at LSU, as well as The Louisiana Partnership for Children and Families, and Morgan Lamandre, legal director of the Sexual Trauma Awareness and Response Center, spoke in favor of the bill. Similar legislation to enact a minimum marriage age was proposed during last years legislative session but did not have enough support to advance. This is the first time Ive ever seen a committee say, this isnt good enough, said Susan Nelson, executive director of the Louisiana Partnership for Children and Families, in an interview after the hearing. The bill would also allow the state to study the effects of child marriage on minors, Nelson said. Between 2000 and 2010, a PBS-Frontline report shows that 4,532 minors were legally married in Louisiana. Louisianas neighboring states already have laws on when children or minors can get married. Texas has set a minimum age of 16 and requires the consent of a judge. In Mississippi, parents need to give permission if their children men aged 17 and women aged 15 want to marry. In Arkansas minors can marry at 17 with parental consent. Louisianas marriage age bill now moves to the House floor for final passage. Books in dozens of genres, plus CDs, DVDs, vinyl records, sheet music, original artwork and posters will be for sale at the 66th annual Symphony Book Fair this weekend at the UNO Lakefront Arena, as an enthusiastic team of volunteers rallies to support the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. Among the literary treasures on offer this year are an official program from the first year of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (1968); a History of Louisiana series in four volumes from 1974 by noted historian Charles Gayarre; a 1935 pop-up copy of Disneys Mickey Mouse in King Arthurs Court; and a copy of The Mississippi signed by its authors, noted historians Stephen Ambrose and Douglas Brinkley. For cookbook fans there is a copy of The Chez Helene House of Good Food Cookbook signed by the late, celebrated chef Austin Leslie, who was the prototype for the popular Franks Place 1980s TV series starring Tim and Daphne Reed. Classical music aficionados may be interested in a signed concert program by noted pianist Arthur Rubenstein or a signed photograph of violin virtuoso Isaac Stern. Disaster fans might find a leather-bound, illustrated collectors edition of The Wreck and Sinking of the Titanic edited by Marshall Everett, first published shortly after the ship sank in 1912 and still in print today. First edition copies of books signed by their authors sell for a slightly higher charge than the normal price charged by the Symphony Volunteers. Phyllis Jordan, the retired founder of the nationwide chain of PJs Coffee shops and co-chairwoman of the book fair, said that the books on sale at the event, all of which are donated, are priced to move. Prices start at 75 cents and can range up to $12, depending on their size and category, but most are around $3. In my value system, its very important that we make books available to the community at affordable prices, Jordan said. Theyre all well below the market prices and, because book dealers are such a big part of our audience, we price everything including the most valuable items at well below the online prices for those books. Jordan, who has been volunteering for the Book Fair for about 15 years, noted that each of the past few years have brought in about $45,000 for the LPO, a vast improvement over the years immediately following Hurricane Katrina. Our sales were off during those years because the arena was out of commission and we had to go to smaller venues. It wasnt easy selling books in that situation, but we held them anyway, Jordan said. Mary Lowery, another Book Fair volunteer, specializes in researching and pricing some of the most valuable items offered for sale at the three-day event. For nearly 20 years she understudied with longtime volunteer, the late Marlene Jaffe, who was an expert at evaluating and assigning value to the high-end collectible items the team calls Fabulous Finds. Marlene was the total expert and she taught us as much as she could. I enjoyed learning from her, Lowery said. I love looking up these books and finding treasures that are rare or worth something. For me this is like being in a candy store, Lowery added with a laugh. Its just so much fun. ********************** To donate books or other collectible items to the Symphony Book Fair year-round, drop them off between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays at 8605 Oak St. near Leonidas Street. *********************** Symphony Book Fair WHEN: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday WHERE: UNO Lakefront Arena, 6801 Franklin Ave., New Orleans TICKETS: $15 for the first six hours (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Friday. Free from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and all day Saturday and Sunday. Cash, checks, VISA, MasterCard and Discover cards are accepted on sales. INFO: lpovolunteers.org Although he reported to federal prison earlier this month, former north shore district attorney Walter Reed is still seeking relief from the U.S. Supreme Court, arguing the same themes of federal overreach that his lawyer sounded in his federal corruption trial and subsequent appeal. Reed's attorney, Richard Simmons, filed writs to the Supreme Court even as he was fighting to keep his client out of prison a little longer during Reed's recovery from surgery for prostate cancer. Reed had hoped to stay out on bond until he exhausted his appeals. U.S. District Judge Eldon Fallon had agreed to that when Reed was sentenced in April 2017. But a three-judge panel of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld Reed's conviction on 18 counts of fraud and corruption, and he was denied a hearing before the full court. That prompted U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser to push in February for Reed to begin serving his four-year sentence, and Fallon agreed. Now, Reed is taking a legal long shot with the U.S. Supreme Court. Strasser underlined just how unlikely Reed is to succeed in his argument for making the former prosecutor report to prison while he pursues his final appeal. Strasser said that getting heard before the Supreme Court is "considerably more difficult than gaining admission to Harvard," since the court hears only 1 percent to 6 percent of the petitions it receives. But Reed, who spent 30 years as district attorney of the 22nd Judicial District, encompassing St. Tammany and Washington parishes, has fought tenaciously for his freedom since his indictment in 2015. The 40-page petition Simmons filed last month argues that Reed's case offers the Supreme Court "a vehicle ... to examine the sensitive balance between federal and state relations, particularly when it involves the sanctity of the election process of state public officials." The petition argues that the case presents questions of "exceptional importance," including a lack of fair warning to Reed that his conduct could be prosecuted under federal laws. State campaign laws should be enforced by the state that issued them, the petition argues, saying that Reed's prosecution represents a dangerous expansion of federal powers. Much of the case against Reed dealt with his use of campaign donations, but he was also found guilty of taking money from St. Tammany Parish Hospital that was meant for his office. 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's efforts to get his conviction reversed have been based in large part on a 2016 Supreme Court ruling that involved former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell, who was accused of taking gifts, trips and loans from a businessman who sought his help in dealing with other state officials. The high court reversed McDonnell's conviction, and Reed's petition argues that there are similarities in that both cases revolve around ambiguous language in state laws. The McDonnell case hinged in part on the interpretation of what an "official act" is. Reed's defense points to what it says is ambiguity in Louisiana campaign law, which prohibits spending campaign donations on expenses "unrelated to the campaign or the holding of public office." The petition argues that Reed's expenditures in fact were legitimate under state law. It says that flowers he sent as a gift to a woman who accompanied him to the Angola Prison rodeo were not campaign-related but did relate to his holding of public office, since district attorneys were invited to attend the rodeo to encourage support of the prison. But Reed was not allowed to present testimony from Gray Sexton, former general counsel for the Louisiana Ethics Board, that would have made clear to the jury that the law is ambiguous, the petition argues. Sexton also would have testified that an expenditure can serve a dual purpose, the petition says, pointing to a $25,000 donation that Reed made to Jerry Wayne Cox, a pastor in Franklinton who testified for the prosecution. Prosecutors said that donation was given in return for personal injury cases that Cox referred to Reed's private law practice. But the petition argues that such a donation was a reasonable way to encourage Cox's continued political support for Reed and that expenditures can serve a dual purpose. In an echo of earlier arguments, the petition also stresses the evils of federal overreach and says that federal prosecutors in New Orleans have a history of testing the limits of federalism. It cites an earlier case in which the Supreme Court limited federal authorities from enforcing Louisiana's video poker regulations and a more recent case in which defendants Peter Hoffman and Michael Arata were convicted of federal mail and wire fraud in their applications for Louisiana tax credits. Those defendants are also seeking a hearing before the U.S. Supreme Court, arguing in part that the 5th Circuit refused in their case to consider that Louisiana's tax credit law was ambiguous and that the defendants' actions were consistent with a "reasonable construction" of that law. Reed's case "raises the same issue as to the Louisiana ambiguous campaign finance law as defined by federal prosecution after the fact," his petition says. A Mississippi man was arrested and suspected to be intoxicated after his vehicle allegedly struck and killed a pedestrian in Jefferson Parish on Monday evening. Khalil Brice, 24 of Natchez, was booked on a count of vehicular homicide after a box truck he was driving southbound on U.S. 61 struck 67-year-old Ricky Lee of Metairie, according to a report from the Louisiana State Police. Lee was walking northbound on the southbound side of U.S. 61 at Severn Avenue at the time of the crash. Lee is also suspected to have been impaired at the time of the crash, State Police said, with toxicology results pending. Brice was not hurt. Despite the suspicion that he was intoxicated, the results of a toxicology test for him remain pending as well, police said. The crash remains under investigation. In other matters recently handled by local authorities: The Orleans Parish Coroner's Office identified two men slain during shootings over the Memorial Day weekend. Kendrick Mayes, 27, was fatally shot in the 2200 block of North Galvez Street in St. Roch on Saturday. Roy Cain, 35, was fatally shot in the 2200 block of St. Anthony Street in the 7th Ward on Sunday. Though the killings were reported about a mile apart, officials haven't said whether they suspect that they are related. One suspect, 31-year-old James Earl Webster, is wanted in connection with Mayes' slaying. Police on Tuesday said they are also seeking to question Jenae Webster, 27, in the case, though they stopped short of calling her a suspect. 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 Alphonse Young, 66, was booked on counts of aggravated assault with a firearm, negligent injuring and illegal use of a weapon in connection with gunfire reported in the 2300 block of Joliet Street in the Leonidas neighborhood on Monday afternoon, New Orleans police said Monday. Jude Ford, 21, was booked on counts of attempted murder and armed robbery in connection with a shooting reported the night of May 12 in Hollygrove, according to New Orleans authorities. In the shooting, police said a 22-year-old man was found in the 8700 block of Apricot Street with multiple bullet wounds. Paramedics took the victim to a local hospital for treatment. There were three robberies reported between 5 p.m. Monday and 6 a.m. Tuesday, New Orleans police said. About 5 p.m. in the 300 block of Saint Joseph Street in the Central Business District, a 26-year-old woman had her phone snatched by a man with whom she was arguing and who began tampering with her car battery after an argument over the phone, police said. The man later returned, gave the victim's phone back to an unspecified security officer on the scene and fled. Police have obtained a warrant to arrest Bryce Deruise, 27, in connection with the case. About 10:20 p.m. in the 1000 block of Music Street in the Marigny, a 26-year-old man surrendered his wallet to another man who approached him and pressed something sharp against the victim's left side, police said. The robber fled. Police said they investigated a carjacking reported about 6:10 a.m. at the corner of Chef Menteur Highway and Louisa Street on the edge of Gentilly, but exact details about the incident weren't immediately available. Christopher Charles, 59, was booked May 17 with two car break-ins and a business burglary reported in the Central Business District in the preceding days, New Orleans police said Tuesday. The car break-ins were reported April 30 in the 100 block of Elk Place and May 11 in the 800 block of Perdido Street. The business break-in occurred May 13 in the 800 block of Convention Center Boulevard. Police said they identified Charles as a suspect in the case with the help of surveillance camera footage. Staff writers Jeffrey Nowak and Ramon Antonio Vargas compiled this report. Gas, not coal, was the fossil fuel that would take the traditional energy industry into the future, a national industry conference has been told. The annual Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) conference is being held in Brisbane this week, with the result of the recent federal election front of many delegates minds. APPEA and Shell's Zoe Yujnovich insists natural gas can exist alongside renewable energy. Credit:Bloomberg APPEA chair and Shell Australia chief Zoe Yujnovich said following the election result, which saw the Coalition returned to power, the industry had an opportunity to plant the seeds of positive public debate around energy. In the wake of the election, when armchair experts are hoarse from shouting, we have a real opportunity to drive real change, she said. Taking the stage for his work Dancing with Strangers, dancer and violinist Eric Avery wears a reversible jacket resembling a British naval coat. It's quickly turned inside out to reveal a possum skin cloak as Avery visualises how it must have been for Australia's Indigenous people to have first caught sight of the sails of the First Fleet. Avery responds in dance to the story of how his ancestor watched as the First Fleet sailed to Port Jackson. Credit:Steven Siewert The jacket is a symbol for Avery of an alternate version of history in which the two cultures shared culture, created music and dance together, thereby reshaping Australias future for all. Dancing with Strangers is one of a triple bill of solo works from Marrugeku, an intercultural dance company which aims to break down walls between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Loading A key part of the publicity campaign for the new Aladdin has involved assuring would-be viewers that it will not make the same mistakes as the old Aladdin, which featured a predominantly white voice cast and invoked uneasy stereotypes about the Middle East. (Among other issues, a lyric about cutting off ears was replaced for the 1993 home video release following protests - though the city of Agrabah was still described as "barbaric." In the new Aladdin it's now "chaotic.") Some have argued Disney has made new mistakes this time around. Disney has been more persuasively progressive, however, in its original films of the past several years. The superhero fantasy Big Hero 6 seamlessly incorporated a multicultural voice cast into a futuristic setting known as San Fransokyo. Frozen has princesses (and a would-be Prince Charming), but it prioritises sisterhood over romance. Moana features a Pacific Islander heroine, and Coco (from the Disney-owned Pixar) has a Mexican hero (and Hispanic voice actors); both stories manage to represent their cultures respectfully while still being accessible to global audiences. And, on the live-action front, the Disney-owned Marvel movie Black Panther was important for its depiction of the black diaspora. I grew up loving Disney movies and still do, despite their troublesome aspects. Part of growing up means learning that many, if not most, of the things you loved are problematic - then spending your adulthood trying to counter all the harmful lessons you might have unconsciously taken away from them. It's good (and good business) for Disney to acknowledge the shameful parts of its past. But the best way to do this is by leaving behind the past and creating more films like Coco and Moana - definitive versions in their own right. New York Times Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 28) President Rodrigo Duterte has reappointed broadcaster and newspaper columnist Ramon "Mon" Tulfo as his special envoy for public diplomacy to China. Tulfo will serve another six-month term, according to the document signed by the President on Monday and released by Malacanang Tuesday. He first took over the post in October 2018 amid the country's long-standing dispute with China on the South China Sea and the controversial influx of Chinese workers in the country. Tulfo drew flak last March for saying that Filipino workers have bad work ethics, making their Chinese counterparts more desirable to employers. He never apologized for what he said despite criticisms from his fellow government officials, including Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III. A big number of Chinese nationals have flown to the country since Duterte assumed office in 2016 and pursued friendlier ties with Beijing. The Chinese government has provided funds and loans for the government's massive infrastructure program, but both Manila and Beijing officials dismissed fears the Philippines could fall into a debt trap. There are some things I dont quite get about Fleabag like how a show about grief and guilt can be so damned funny, and how a story about failed relationships can be so uplifting. Its a puzzle. In its second season, Fleabag (Amazon Prime) picks up "371 days, 19 hours and 26 minutes" after the first ended. Our unnamed heroine (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) is still running a guinea-pig themed cafe but now it's thriving rather than failing. She has also sworn off getting smashed and using sex as a way of avoiding emotions. Or so she says. That's not to say she's got everything under control; when we first see her, blood is streaming from her nose. She's in a bathroom, with another woman on the floor, also with a bloodied nose. And then Fleabag, because that's what we're meant to call her, turns to the camera and breaks the fourth wall and says: "This is a love story." And so it is, over six beautifully weighted episodes that alternate from hilarious to heartbreaking and back again. It is shameful that Scott Morrison won office by fuelling fears of tax increases for retirees and job losses for miners, rather than by advocating policies to make wealthier citizens contribute a proportionately fairer share of their wealth to help address the urgent problems typified by the sad story of Courtney Herron. Dr Edwin Harari, consultant psychiatrist, Fitzroy Spend on mental health, reduce prison numbers I wonder whether we would achieve a better outcome for our community if, instead of spending the proposed $1.8billion to expand prisons in Victoria, we diverted that investment into the mental health budget. Vivienne Kane, Hawthorn The terrible decision to close psychiatric hospitals The Victorian government needs to build homes for the homeless and repair the terrible damage done by the Kennett government when it closed our major psychiatric hospitals. Successive Labor governments have not repaired the damage. Some people with mental health issues know that they need help and just want "a safe place". Others might require involuntary secure accommodation. Victoria needs three or four new psychiatric hospitals so that people especially vulnerable women and children with mental health issues do not have to sleep rough. The adjunct wards at our "physical illness" hospitals cannot cope. No one should be sleeping rough in this wealthy country. David Langsam, Flemington Changing the laws so that women are protected It was not "society" which failed Courtney Herron, as the police have claimed (The Age, 27/5). Every day, social workers fight to ensure that vulnerable women receive housing and protection. It was the failure to change laws so that vulnerable women are protected. It is the failure of men to change the way they view and treat women. Elaine Stops, Balwyn North How can we justify spending so much on subs? If the federal government could see fit to eliminate just one or two submarines from its current order, it would go a long way towards solving our homelessness problem. These subs will never fulfil any useful purpose. What is more important? Ray Kenyon, Camberwell THE FORUM The right to treatment It is inconceivable that Courtney Herron was unable to be placed on a methadone program, prescribed to treat heroin addiction, because she lacked a stable address (The Age, 27/5). Why wasn't the address of her family sufficient, given that she had contact with them? For others, why isn't a nominated post office address sufficient? Surely there is a way around this issue so we can start to address the appalling and shameful existence of homelessness in our wealthy country. It should be given priority over removing one or two railway crossings. Kaye Kibblewhite, Frankston South The right to a fulfilling life As a mother of a son who developed an addiction to drugs as a late teenager, I am relieved that he has recovered and become a fine man. He is now supporting others in the same boat. We were lucky to be able to afford private rehabilitation for him. Fortunately, he was never homeless. Not so for those on waiting lists for publicly funded drug rehabilitation programs. Some wait months. In the meantime, some die because they do not have a stable address, so may be denied access to the programs. Shame on the government for failing our young and vulnerable. They could potentially have a worthwhile life beyond drugs and homelessness. Name and suburb withheld Shameless campaigning Alcohol and men are key factors in crime and domestic violence, so why did the political minders conspire relentlessly to show Scott Morrison (mostly) and Bill Shorten with a beer in their hands during the election campaign? And why did the media go along with it? One aim of Mr Morrison's campaign was to make his image more relatable to ordinary people. Would Julie Bishop and Tanya Plibersek, had they been heading their parties, been treated similarly? What is the message to adolescents? First, it is hypocritical for adults to lecture them on the evils of drink and drugs. Second, if something is considered important enough, anything goes. Is this the best we can do? Vic Rowlands, Leongatha The path to promotion Scott Morrison's new cabinet includes two recycled ministers, Sussan Ley and Stuart Robert. Where else can you misuse expenses, keep your job, bide your time and then get promoted? Building trust and confidence? I do not think so. Susan Simpson, Surrey Hills End the cruel export trade The new, pro-live export agriculture minister Bridget McKenzie has a duty to continue the reforms that were instigated by her predecessor, David Littleproud (The Age, 28/5). No doubt the industry is relieved by the election result as Labor had promised to phase out the sheep trade. Already exporters are reneging on their self-imposed suspension of exports between June and August by seeking a permit to send 56,000 sheep to the Middle East before their May 31 cut-off. Since it takes three weeks to reach the Middle East, the sheep will endure extreme heat stress during June. The Australian Veterinary Association does not recommend voyages between May and October. If the minister wants live exports to continue, she must protect farm animals. Jan Kendall, Hawthorn ALP, same old, same old So Labor has replaced a leader who, for three years trailed as preferred prime minister, with another who will also probably be "least preferred". This is a huge missed opportunity to bring in one of the many supremely qualified females in the party and/or more contemporary males who would make it relevant to current day Australia. David Parker, Geelong Our precious 'friends' I enjoyed Clare Cohen's article "Istill can't bear to sleep without a teddy" (Comment, 25/5). I myself, at 61, have a "blankie" given to me by my grandparents in 1959. Long live our constant, unwavering childhood companions. Michele Layet, Prahran Taxes provide our services David Corbett (Letters, 27/5), taxation is not "theft". It is the price of admission to live in a civilised society. It buys you law and order, a world-class health system, education, property rights, roads and public transport, and a million other things we all take for granted. Australia is a good country, but it is not great, and it is far from the best. If we want to make it better, we need to collect more taxes, not less. Until the "haves" among us grasp this concept, we will continue making only tiny gains while leaving significant sections of the community behind. David Nelson, Clayton South Selling our kids short As a teacher in a government primary school, a recent episode exemplified to me one of the problems with education in Australia. Our science teacher had acquired butterflies so that our students could observe the metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly. The first insect started to emerge from its chrysalis a day early, inconveniently during a standardised reading test. Disappointingly, the children were not properly able to observe it emerging, drying, unfolding, resting and plumping its delicate wings. The Education Department's online test would have "timed out", leading to poor data for our school and, apparently, insufficiently assessed children for our reporting. So they sat at computers, mostly oblivious to the miracle going on beside them. Luckily they will be able to recall, fondly, the precious moment of doing that test for years to come, long after the average four-week lifespan of a monarch butterfly has ended. Elizabeth Knight, Oakleigh East A family's nightmare Jo Hartley describes the morning struggle to get her children off to school (Essential Kids, Online 27/5). We sympathise but we are also envious. You might not be able to imagine what happens if sometimes you do not get to the school gate because your child struggles with anxiety, when trying harder stops working, when getting to the gate happens only sometimes, and then never. When the problem looms so large that your child would rather jump off the roof than deal with it, when the rest of the family is so neglected that they are self-harming. Everybody is expected to get to the gate. There would be tears of joy in our house if we fought the morning battle and sometimes won. Name and suburb withheld A true promise to 'burn' So this is what the Scott Morrison really meant: I will burn coal for you. And it is not just Adani, we have lots of it in Queensland. Now we know. I am so afraid for my two grandkids. Robert Cox, Blackburn The myth of many jobs Margaret Strelow's article, "We need to talk about Adani, Melbourne" (Comment, 28/5) did not address my major concern. The mathematicians and engineers have worked out how to run a big mine from an office anywhere (eg, India) with very few local workers. If Adani goes ahead, there will be jobs while it is built but they will disappear. So families who have relocated for these jobs will likely have to relocate again. Meanwhile the Adani mine will be a modern, very efficient operation that will be able to undercut other mines. The net result is likely to be job losses in the Hunter Valley. I oppose this project on environmental grounds but the con job being done on workers is unforgivable. A significant increase in Newstart along with targeted training around sustainable jobs would put money in these communities and give people, especially the young, much better options. Jan Thomas, North Melbourne The facts on dirty coal Yes, Margaret Strelow, we need to talk about Adani. More specifically, we need to talk about coal. You are welcome to visit the Latrobe Valley where the residents live in close proximity to the coal-fired power stations that pump out as much as 20 times more toxic air pollution than other countries allow. Victoria's power stations emit far more mercury than other coal-fired power stations in Australia. Do not feel left out, though. Environmental Justice Australia's analysis of this year's National Pollutant Inventory data found that the NRG Gladstone power station emitted more oxides of nitrogen than any other power station, despite generating only half as much energy as Origin's Eraring, Australia's largest power station. If Victoria is too far to visit, you could read the NPI and educate yourself before you subject our friends in India to a fate that the Latrobe Valley's residents would not wish on their worst enemy. No coal is clean. Leah de Vries, Traralgon Momentous, but ignored Yesterday marked the centenary of the electrification of rail services in suburban Melbourne a momentous forward step, phasing out coal-powered steam engines. Having we heard anything from the Victorian government about this? Not a toot. Unless one counts reports of the threat to local rail museums and restoration workshops (The Age, 25/5). Andrew Mackinnon, Kew The torment of Ablett One imagines there is some spiritual/psychological correlation between Gary Ablett's uncharacteristic behaviour "Cat finally runs out of lives" (Sport, 28/5) and his experience of banal booing, week after week. This of one of the finest and fairest players we have seen. Is this how it is to end? Even while he still plays so wonderfully? Philip Huggins, Albert Park Capital punishment and... Good point, Mary Walker (Letters, 28/5). The new stand against abortion by some American states is not consistent with their death penalties. Where do the evangelical stand on this conflict? David Jones, Essendon ...the right to bear arms Obviously guns are banned in those states that are "pro-life". Graeme Perry, Skye AND ANOTHER THING Politics It's a bit rich for the government to claim a mandate on anything. It took few policies into the election. Jack Wajntraub, South Melbourne Sometimes it's best for the government to implement a worthy but controversial opposition reform. Peter Walker, Black Rock The Victorian government could make Pallas available to the Greek government for a financial year. Mark Dymiotis, Hampton Is Fifield's new appointment a reward for his cuts to our ABC? Phil Lipshut, Elsternwick Now that the ABC has failed to get Labor into government, does it have a Plan B? Ken Barnes, Glen Iris Soon there'll be brand new senators (28/5). They're waiting for a vacancy that suddenly arises. Ralph Tabor, Pakenham Cabinet sounds like our economic situation: Price is down, Cash preferred. Kevan Porter, Alphington You know climate change is going badly when we need a drought minister. Samuel Leeder, Seddon The Age What a disappointment: the comics repeated and no "Brain Food". I want my money back. Heather Butler, Bairnsdale Groundhog Day. How comical. Rod Martin, Glen Waverley Deja vu. However, Zits always gives me a laugh, even second time around. Selma Seknow, Elwood Good Food with no vexing culinary questions? Sacrilege. Ann Young, Chirnside Park Furthermore "Australian coals burn cleaner than coals from other countries" (27/5). How? Jessica Hill, Burwood What sort of society do we live in that lets market forces determine whether vulnerable people have a safe roof over their heads? A Brisbane woman was bashed with a pestle, doused in hair dye, bound and gagged and had make-up crudely applied in an overnight ordeal which ended when she broke free and waved down cars. Her captor, Tammy Maree White, has been jailed for four years after pleading guilty to deprivation of liberty and torture. The woman has been jailed for four years at the Brisbane District Court. White was affected by ice when she was engaged to recover a $1200 drug debt from the woman in July 2018, Brisbane District Court heard on Tuesday. The victim was taken to a home in Seventeen Mile Rocks, in Brisbane's south-west, about 1am when White punched her and made her strip "because the money's probably on you". A Cairns man who raped and kidnapped a British backpacker on a road trip through the Queensland bush has been jailed for 10 years. Marcus Allyn Keith Martin, 24, was sentenced in the Cairns District Court on Tuesday, having previously pleaded guilty to rape and deprivation of liberty. The man was sentenced at Cairns District Court on Tuesday. Credit:Google Maps The bruised and battered Liverpool woman was rescued by police on an outback highway near Mitchell, about 600km west of Brisbane, after driving off from a petrol station without paying for fuel. Caltex Mitchell manager Beverley Page told reporters at the time it was clear the woman, crying and shaking, was in a bad way when she explained she couldn't pay for fuel because her ex-boyfriend had her wallet. In the industrial suburbs of northern Geelong, just past the old Ford factory on the route from Melbourne, you can see a vision of Australias future laid out in the shipping yards below. Its a massive stack of wind turbine blades, destined for the renewable energy boom under way in western Victoria. A wind farm near Ararat in western Victoria. Credit:Ararat Wind Farm During the election campaign, Scott Morrison would have been driven past on one of his many attempts to shore up the marginal surf-coast electorate of Corangamite. Glancing out the window of the Prime Ministers German-made BMW, Morrison might have seen this white and gleaming new technology among the suburbs rusting sheds. Looking more closely, he might also have seen that here is a way to reconcile action on climate change with regional jobs and unite Australians behind a shared vision of sustainable prosperity. Its a vision his party has yet to embrace. With Tuesday's front-page story confirming the Morrison government will stick with its weak and ineffective climate policy, its now up to others to seize the opportunity. Accused killer Henry Hammond was banned from a Thornbury restaurant where he volunteered because he frightened the customers. Lentil as Anything manager Dayle Lee Jones said Mr Hammond was living in a van beside the restaurant car park and had come to believe he was the Norse god Odin. Accused killer Henry Hammond. She was forced to bar him from the restaurant a non-profit, pay-as-you-feel eatery that is 99 per cent run by volunteers after alarming incidents including one in which he repeatedly threw himself against the window, scaring customers. Mr Hammond faced court on Monday charged with the murder of Courtney Herron, whose body was discovered in Royal Park on Saturday morning. The MCG was again the scene of violence on Saturday night after Richmond defeated Essendon in the Dreamtime at the 'G clash. A group of men wearing Richmond jumpers fought in the public car park on Olympic Boulevard about 10.45pm on Saturday, police say. One man punched at least one other, police say. Some of the men involved have been identified, but police believe there were other AFL supporters in the area who may have witnessed the incident or have footage. It comes after continued violence at footy matches at the MCG. Nicky Habjan was considered one of the ring leaders of the Perth based group. Credit:Facebook Within a day of arriving in WA, messages between the group members and cell figures showed the men had already begun following the syndicate's instructions to set up the phony Perth shop-fronts. In the first week of making the fraudulent transactions, the men stole $25,000 through manual EFTPOS transactions and attempted to steal a further $24,000 in failed transactions. Unaware the Australian Federal Police had been monitoring their movements, the men attempted to move the stolen money into bank accounts linked to the crime syndicate, but were blocked. By mid-November, the British members of the group realised the banks were stonewalling them and began to suspect they were being followed. They moved quickly to book flights out of Australia for the following day but were arrested the morning of their flight in a police raid at their hotel room. The Slovenian men were also arrested staying in the room next door. All of the men claimed they were unknowing and unwilling participants in the scheme. Rebernak and Edwards claimed they feared the repercussions if they did not follow the cell's orders, with Rebernak claiming his family's life was threatened if he didn't continue helping with the scam. While WhatsApp messages and call recordings obtained by police and a listening device planted in the groups' rooms the day before their arrest failed to detect any form of threat, prosecution lawyer Brett Tooker said it could not be ruled out. But he questioned claims the men were unknowing and then fearful, based on the obtained messages and more than five hours of voice calls. "The parties, particularly Habjan and Edwards, were actively and enthusiastically participating in the scheme," he said. "There's nothing in the calls to suggest they were afraid. "The relationship, I would describe as employer and employee ... these men were not slaves ... they knew they were there to do a job, and they were doing it." Mr Preece argued the men, who have been in custody since their arrest in November, were picked by the syndicate to 'take the risk on the ground' because they were vulnerable and owed money. He described them as small players in the scheme. "[The planning] had all been done by people [the four men] didn't know, by people they've never met," he said. "They're kept on a short lead ... they're just being told and directed with every step they take." During their sentencing in the District Court of WA, Judge Linda Petrusa said without the men's participation, the scheme would not have been possible. "Without them the scheme would not have worked," she said. "[To them] what seemed like a small risk they were going to profit a lot, so they took the risk. "There was nothing stopping any of them from going to authorities here in Australia." She sentenced the two Slovenian men to three years jail, and the British men to two-and-a-half years, with all eligible for parole upon serving half their sentence. As part of their sentence, the two Slovinian men must give evidence at trial if Miles is ever found and charged in relation to the scam. They have been convicted of carrying out 22 fraudulent EFTPOS transactions, and 21 attempted transactions using EFTPOS machines. Along with the British pair, the men have also been convicted of conspiring to commit fraud and conspiring to commit money laundering. The government will tackle the states flammable cladding crisis but only where it is the owner of the building. The state budget released this week revealed $160 million will be spent over the next four years fixing 95 government-owned buildings with dangerous cladding on their exteriors. The government's promised "cladding rectification program" included in Monday's state budget shows that $5.2 million was spent in the current financial year repairing 22 state-owned buildings considered the most dangerous. Flammable cladding has been replaced on the privately owned building where the government's planning department is located in Nicholson Street, East Melbourne. But no money was set aside in Monday's budget to help owners of apartment buildings covered in flammable cladding mount repairs. Microsoft and Facebook have agreed to help boost the security of Canada's October election by removing fake accounts and cracking down on bots, a top government official said on Monday. Last month the Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau complained that the world's major social media companies were not doing enough to help combat potential foreign meddling in the vote and said Ottawa might have to regulate them. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has expressed concerns about potential election tampering. Democratic Institutions Minister Karina Gould told legislators that the two companies had made commitments in a voluntary declaration on electoral integrity. "The Wild West online era cannot continue; inaction is not an option. Disinformation must not stand," said Gould, repeating the threat to crack down on the firms if necessary. Government officials say they fear bad actors some linked to Russia will try to interfere in the vote. Kabul: Attacks on Afghan schools tripled from 2017 to 2018, as the Taliban and other extremist groups in Afghanistan continue to wage a campaign of violence against so-called softer targets, far from the battlefield. The number of attacks increased to 192 from 68, a surge not seen since 2015, according to the report by the United Nations agency for children released on Tuesday. The number of children not attending school also increased last year for the first time since 2002. A relative of a victim is helped as he cries after a deadly suicide attack in Kabul on January 27, 2018. Credit:Rahmat Gul It is yet another sign of the deteriorating security situation across Afghanistan. To some Afghans, the report offered concrete evidence that the repressive Taliban regime is again on the rise, even as the United States attempts to negotiate a peace settlement with the group. Nooria Nazhat, a spokeswoman for the ministry of education, said the government did not have any specific statistics to back up the UNICEF report. But she added: "Every week we have a report about schools getting attacked in Afghanistan." Sao Paolo: At least 42 prisoners in Brazil were found strangled to death on Monday in four jails in the Amazon jungle city of Manaus, where a fight between rival prison gangs resulted in 15 dead the day before, authorities said. Women embrace outside Anisio Jobim Prison Complex after a deadly riot erupted among inmates in Manaus in the northern state of Amazonas, Brazil. Credit:AP A federal task force is being sent to Manaus in an effort to halt the violence. Prison clashes often spread rapidly in Brazil, where drug gangs have de facto control over nearly all jails. In January 2017, nearly 150 prisoners died during three weeks of violence in north and northeastern Brazil, as local gangs backed by Brazil's two largest drug factions - the First Capital Command and the Red Command - butchered one another. A statement from the Amazonas state penitentiary department confirmed the number of deaths that took place on Monday and said authorities had regained control of the four prisons. No other details were provided. 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. I got down on my knee in front of that mother, I handed her that flag, and I said, Maam, I know theres nothing I can say that can assuage the loss you must feel right now, but I hope you know how grateful we are as a nation for the sacrifice you and your family have made for all of us and that when you see this flag, youll remember what a fine young man you raised and how this country will always be indebted to him for his sacrifice for our country and its citizens, he said. Her response haunted him for years, he said, as she thanked Ramirez and all the soldiers for what they do and pledged she would continue sending her sons to the military. Well, rule number one, is generals dont cry. I had a bad case of allergies that day, Ramirez said, met with laughter, noting he had to walk away to make sure she did not see him cry. Then, in 2013, as Ramirez is welcoming new cadets to Texas A&M, he said, he sees a big, strapping young man from Verdon, Nebraska. He says, Sir, Im from Verdon, Nebraska. I was about to ask him his name when I looked to his right; theres that mother. Bad case of allergies that day too, he said. Ariana Grande has voiced her concerns over her new Madame Tussauds waxwork after fans claimed that the model looked like she is on crack. The 25-year-old got a figure at the museum's London venue but fans and critics believe there's something "off" about her appearance, reports The Sun. And it looks like Ari might just aree, commenting on an Instagram post about the new waxwork. 13-Year-Old Wakes up From 3-Week Coma After Smelling Deodorant: Reports Kacper Krauze, an English boy, woke up from a three-week-long coma after smelling deodorant. The child fell into a freezing river while playing with friends in Cumbria in February 2019, according to the Daily Mail. The boy, who was not able to swim, got submerged in the River Eden for about 25 minutes, witnesses said. He was pulled from the freezing river by emergency services. The boy was revived by paramedics and was taken to the hospital. His family and nurses tried anything to wake him up, but it wasnt until his mum sprayed his trusted Lynx deodorant at the intensive care unit of the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle that the teen opened his eyes https://t.co/LYohl1JT0f Metro (@MetroUK) May 27, 2019 However, while he was hospitalized, he was placed in a coma because his brain was deprived of oxygen for some time. After several weeks, his mother reportedly sprayed his favorite Lynx deodorant in the intensive care unit at Freeman Hospital in Newcastle, according to The Metro. It was a miracle. We had tried everything to wake him up. A nurse had suggested I bring in some of his toiletries to wash him with, his mother, Wioletta, told the paper. She said that as soon as she sprayed the deodorant, his eyes immediately opened and must have remembered that was his favorite smell. He has always absolutely loved Lynx and he still wears it to this day, she added. We had tried so hard to get him to wake up from his coma. We had played music, we had spent hours talking to him. But in the end it was the Lynx which did it. I just couldnt believe it. It was an absolute miracle. Boy, 13, wakes from three-week coma thanks to Lynx deodorant miracle https://t.co/vvYaqa5DD4 pic.twitter.com/chglus9A4i Daily Mirror (@DailyMirror) May 27, 2019 Kacper said that hes made a full recovery after waking up from the coma. I am really grateful to all the doctors, nurses and the Great North Air Ambulance for saving my life, he said, according to The Sun, adding that he never thought that the deodorant would help him wake up from a coma. I will continue to wear it now, always. Its my lucky charm, he said. Schoolboy wakes up from three-week coma after smelling favourite LYNX deodorant https://t.co/hWnSO07eG8 The Sun (@TheSun) May 27, 2019 In describing how the boy was pulled from the water, his mother said she thought he had drowned. He had been in the water for a really, really long time, Wioletta told The Metro. They told us later that in the air ambulance a doctor gave him another electric shock and after four electric shocks they could finally feel a pulse. He had been brought back to life but he remained in a coma, she said. The boys condition was poor, and she was praying like mad, she recalled. According to the United Kingdoms National Health Service (NHS), Research has also suggested that stimulating the main senses touch, hearing, vision and smell could potentially help a person recover from a coma. As well as talking to the person and holding their hand, you might want to try playing them their favorite music through headphones, putting flowers in their room or spraying a favorite perfume, its website says. It noted that some comatose people have reported feeling the presence of a loved one while in the state. The experience of being in a coma differs from person to person. Some people feel they can remember events that happened around them while they were in a coma, while others dont, the website says. Stock image of a deer. (Mabel Amber/Pixabay) Image of the plastic taken out of the body of a 17-year-old female deer that died at Nara Park in Japan on March 24. (Nara Welfare Deer Association) 17-Year-Old Deer Dies With 9 Pounds of Plastic in Stomach A 17-year-old female deer in Japans famous Nara Park died on May 24 and an autopsy found nine pounds of plastic in her stomach. Nara Park is a popular tourist destination for its deer, with around two million visitors a year, according to SoraNews24. Deer in Nara are considered sacred because in the Shinto religion they are believed to be messengers of God. Lately, however, the deer of Nara have been in the news for other reasonsthere have been incidences of tourists overfeeding them and deer biting them, according to CNN Travel. Problem of Plastics SoraNews24 reported that since March this year eight deer died in the park from unknown reasons and autopsies showed six died due to plastic in their stomachs. The 17-year-old sick female deer was sighted by vets from the Nara Deer Park Association on March 23. The deer refused to eat and died the next day. It weighed just 66 pounds when it died and an autopsy revealed nine pounds of plastic in its stomach, according to Unilad. Like cattle, deer cud their food and vets explained that the deer died because it couldnt regurgitate, digest, and ingest new food. Authorities have become increasingly concerned about the problem and have been appealing to visitors not to carry food for deer in plastic bags. Pauvres cerfs Nara deer dies with four kilos of plastic in its stomach, tourists cautioned to feed animals properly https://t.co/JzfRi5qYpB pic.twitter.com/3qOCt6WtJc Jerome Ydarack (@JaponMeneATout) May 27, 2019 Signs around the park request visitors feed deer only deer senbei, or deer crackers, sold around the park. However, there are increasing cases of tourists feeding them other food and deer biting into the plastic bags the tourists carry, reported SoraNews24. Deer have a strong sense of smell and they can make out that there is food inside the plastic bags but they cant differentiate between the plastic and the food. Authorities are also concerned about the plastic waste tourists leave behind and have been urging them to carry it away with them. Nara Travelers Guide mentions that deer are wild animals and are capable of finding their own food that includes a variety of plants and grass in the park. The Nara Welfare Deer Association has designed special environmentally-friendly food bags for tourists. In a blog post, the Association said the bag can prevent accidental ingestion of plastics by deer. When taking a walk in Nara Park, please take this eco bag, a translation of the post said. The Heritage of Nara Nara is the oldest park in Japan, established in 1880. The sacred deer of Nara are famous across the country because of religious associations attached to them. A portion of Nara hosts Kasuga Taisha Shrine thats home to Takemi Kajichi no Mikoto, a Shinto deity believed to have used a deer as its vehicle to Kashima Shrine (which is also written with a character for deer). This legend made deer sacred animals, according to Nara Travelers Guide. The park has a separate maternity enclosure called Roku-en. Every year in April, on an average 200 pregnant deer are placed in the enclosure to deliver their young ones. By mid-July, as the fawns are able to keep pace with their mothers, tourists are invited to visit them in a special event called Kojika Koukai (Presentation of the Fawns). The park is also home to the Todaiji Temple, the worlds biggest wooden temple and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The site is the location of a few other shrines, including Japans second-tallest pagoda, which is five stories high. However, deer are the main attraction. 5-Year-Old and 6-Year-Old Brothers Drown in Florida Apartment Complex Pool, Sheriff Says Two young Florida brothers were reportedly found dead after drowning in a Fort Lauderdale apartment complex pool, the Broward Sheriffs Office stated. They were identified as JaKye Joseph, 6, and Branario Minto, 5, and were discovered face down in the pool by neighbors, who hurried to pull them from the water, according to a police news release. I ran over there and saw two children laying on the side of the pool, the kids were on the floor and they were giving them CPR, a neighbor told CBS4 in Florida. The boys mother says her sons were taking lessons, but at least one still did not know how to swim. https://t.co/DGdrjwi2vA ABC7 Sarasota (@mysuncoast) May 26, 2019 Broward Sheriffs Office Fire Rescue paramedics attempted to revive the two boys. They were pronounced dead after being rushed to a nearby hospital, police said. The communitys pool area is secured behind a fence. Detectives believe the boys may have climbed over the fence to reach the pool, the news release stated. According to Local10 News, mother Wildine Joseph said she was sleeping when the boys drowned. Children die after being pulled from North Lauderdale apartment complex pool at the Silver Palms community in the 1200 block of Southwest 50th Avenue: Branario Minto, 5, and JaKye Joseph, 6. https://t.co/b1ueOHuyzS Dorotea Bourne (@quetevayasbien) May 23, 2019 Im so sorry. If I was there I could have saved them on time, she said, adding: I will always miss my babies. Im sorry, JaKye. Im sorry, Branario. Theyre only 5, and theyre only 6. The two boys were also reportedly unable to swim. He thought he could swim, but he could not swim, Joseph said, reported ABC7. Meanwhile, the victims 4-month-old and 1-year-old siblings were taken away from Joseph by Child Protective Services amid an investigation, said officials in the ABC affiliates report. A judge ruled that the siblings will stay in state custody after Joseph appeared in court last week, WSVN reported. The Florida Department of Children and Families said they have past dealings with Joseph and will be looking into previous reports. WSVN reported that Branario, the 5-year-old, was placed in foster care before he was given back to his mother. The family is devastated. Our family is devastated, said Eddie Perez, his foster parent. We thought he had a bright future ahead of him. Perez, who took care of the boy for a year, said he was a caring and loving boy. A judge ruled that they younger siblings of two North Lauderdale brothers, who drowned Wednesday in their apartment complexs pool, will remain in the custody of DCF. https://t.co/xET14YON8E @CBS4Ted CBS4 Miami (@CBSMiami) May 24, 2019 He was easy to get along with. The kids in school loved him, he said. According to a GoFundMe for the young boys started by the foster parents: We were blessed to be in his life for a year and he was turned over to him Mom for reunification. Questions are still going through my mind as to why they were out so late. He was just a baby. We reached out to his mom and she is unable to bury them correctly. Those with information about the drownings can call Detective Barbara Dyer at 954-321-4262. Anonymous information can be given by calling Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477. After What Mother Does in Back Seat, Driver Changes Destination to Police Station Security cameras in a taxi revealed a mother beating her 10-month-old child in the back seat. The driver changed his destination and drove to the local police station instead, where family members picked up the child, according to Kandu News, a news outlet in China. The woman, who was unidentified, got into the taxi with her baby in Chengdu City, Sichuan Province on May 21. The driver was alarmed when the passenger turned violent and began hitting her own child. So he drove to the police station. The police sent the woman to the hospital, and the family later came to pick up the child. The report claimed that the woman suffers from mental illness which caused her behavior. This is a catch-all explanation made by all Chinese media in the event of a persons abnormal behavior. After a stay in the hospital, the woman returned home in a healthy situation, according to Passion News. Backseat Beating Video footage from a camera installed in the drivers taxi shows the woman getting into the back seat at about 11:40 a.m. on May 21. By 11:47 a.m., the child is laying by her side, crying loudly. The woman backhands the child with her left hand, causing the baby to continue crying. The driver, named Chen Kun, appears to glance into the rear-view mirror after she makes a swing, and grimaces ever-so slightly. She was pressing down on her baby and hitting it, Chen told the Kandu News. Her behavior seemed abnormal. My first reaction was to send her to the police station. After ten minutes, the mother is seen holding the baby. From the footage, it is unclear if the baby is on her lap or between her legs. The mother swings her arms recklessly, her fists hitting her own leg and edge of the back seat. The babys cries are heard in the video, slightly muffled. By this time, he actually looks back at the woman. At 12:00 p.m., the woman can be seen half-laying along the back seat, with the baby still out of view. A few minutes later, Chen arrived at the police station. When the back door is opened, the child is seen standing on the floor between her legs. The police officer picks up the child, and the woman is taken to the hospital. After the womans family members were contacted, they came to the station to pick up the child a few hours later. After staying in the hospital for an unspecified length of time, the woman was sent home and in stable condition, according to Kandu News. Amazon Facial Recognition Ban Won Just 2% of Shareholder Vote Amazon.com Inc. shareholders overwhelmingly rejected a proposal that the company stop selling facial recognition technology to government agencies, while a resolution to audit the service drew more support, a regulatory filing on May 24 showed. Some 2.4% of votes were in favor of the ban. A second proposal that called for a study of the extent to which Amazons Rekognition service harmed civil rights and privacy garnered 27.5% support. Amazons sale of the technology to law enforcement in Oregon and Florida has put the company at the center of a growing U.S. debate over facial recognition, with critics warning of false matches and arrests and proponents arguing it keeps the public safe. Amazon has defended its work and said all users must follow the law. These and other Amazon resolutions by shareholders faced an uphill battle to winning majority support, with Amazons board recommending against them and founder and Chief Executive Jeff Bezos controlling 16% of the stock and voting rights. Calculation of support was based on the total votes for, against and abstaining. The tallies excluded broker non-votes. Law enforcement in the United States have used facial recognition for years, and vendors of the technology have abounded, including Frances Idemia, Japans NEC Corp. and newer entrants like Israels AnyVision and Microsoft Corp., which has called for regulation in recent months. Now, members of the U.S. Congress are looking into the rights impact of the technology. Amazons marketing of facial recognition has resulted in intense scrutiny, and researchers have said its technology struggled to identify the gender of individuals with darker skin, prompting fears of unjust arrests. Among other issues, shareholders considered before Amazons annual meeting on May 29 was a request to make it easier for investors to call a special meeting, which garnered 35.3% of votes. A proposal that the company report how it plans to deal with climate change received 29.8% of votes. Nearly 7,700 employees had signed a letter of support of the climate resolution, in a sign of rising worker activism at Amazon. By Jeffrey Dastin Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas) attends the Republican Jewish Coalition's annual leadership meeting at The Venetian Las Vegas in Las Vegas Nev., on April 6, 2019. (Ethan Miller/Getty Images) American Hero Dan Crenshaw Remembers Those Who Lost Lives in Line of Duty A former U.S. Navy SEAL officer turned politician has paid a tribute to all who lost their lives while serving their country on Memorial Day. Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas) took a moment out of his public holiday to share his personal story about close friends in the military who died in the line of duty. Crenshaw uploaded a series of social media posts that have since attracted more than 55,000 likes and 15,000 retweets. His first post reminisced about fellow Navy SEAL Officer Brendan Looney who he was with on this first deployment. Crenshaw praised Looney as a model citizen. Brendan Looney. Did our first deployment together at SEAL Team 3, Crenshaw said on Twitter. One of the best and most respected leaders on the team. Husband, son, and brother. Be Strong. Be accountable. Never complain. Brendan Looney. Did our first deployment together at SEAL Team 3. One of the best and most respected leaders on the Team. Husband, son, and brother. Be Strong. Be accountable. Never complain. pic.twitter.com/TsIuRPOkem Dan Crenshaw (@DanCrenshawTX) May 27, 2019 Joint Terminal Air Controller (JTAC) Pat Feeks was praised for being one of the best ground fighters who coordinated with close air support. One of the best JTACs out there. Best story teller I ever met (those who knew him will understand!), Crenshaw said on Twitter. Loyal friend, husband, brother, and son. He always showed up when you asked him to. Pat Feeks. One of the best JTACs out there. Best story teller I ever met (those who knew him will understand!). Loyal friend, husband, brother, and son. He always showed up when you asked him to. pic.twitter.com/p2sjVNPX8t Dan Crenshaw (@DanCrenshawTX) May 27, 2019 Crenshaw also remembered All American Dave Warsen for all the time they spend together while deployed in the Middle East. [We] spent a lot of time together on our deployment to Afghanistan. When not on missions, wed hit the volleyball court (half sand, half rocks), Crenshaw said on Twitter. [He was the] strongest guy in the platoon and also the happiest. Truly loved and missed [him]. Dave Warsen. All American. Spent a lot of time together on our deployment to Afghanistan. When not on missions, wed hit the volleyball court (half sand, half rocks). Strongest guy in the platoon, and also the happiest. Truly loved and missed. pic.twitter.com/Ufq7flyzOk Dan Crenshaw (@DanCrenshawTX) May 27, 2019 Roommate and fellow Navy SEAL Officer Kevin Ebbert would also be missed dearly, said Crenshaw in his posts. My roommate in BUD/S. One of the smartest, most capable, kindest SEALs I ever knew, Crenshaw said on Twitter. [He was a] skilled medic [and] loving husband. Kevin Ebbert. My roommate in BUD/S. One of the smartest, most capable, kindest SEALs I ever knew. Skilled medic, loving husband. Missed dearly. pic.twitter.com/FyKdSxf3Kx Dan Crenshaw (@DanCrenshawTX) May 27, 2019 Great Operator Brad Cavner was cool and collected. Brad taught me to shoot left-handed after I lost my right eye, and spent countless hours getting my close quarters combat skills back up to speed, Crenshaw said on Twitter. Its about the Brotherhood. Brad Cavner. Cool, collected, and a great operator. Brad taught me to shoot left-handed after I lost my right eye, and spent countless hours getting my CQC skills back up to speed. Its about the Brotherhood. pic.twitter.com/a7aFMbZRD9 Dan Crenshaw (@DanCrenshawTX) May 27, 2019 Life of the Party Charles Keating IV was great company and a team player. Chuck Heavy, his laugh was contagious, Crenshaw said on Twitter. He was killed placing himself in danger so that his team wouldnt have to. [He was a] Navy Cross recipient, epic hero, husband, son, [and] brother. Charles Keating IV. Chuck Heavy. His laugh was contagious. Life of the party. He was killed placing himself in danger so that his Team wouldnt have to. Navy Cross recipient. Epic hero, husband, son, brother. pic.twitter.com/uFj0ROOnSb Dan Crenshaw (@DanCrenshawTX) May 27, 2019 He described Brett Marihugh as the most motivating and entertaining colleague. [He] told stories for hours about his time as a cop before he joined, he said on Twitter. He pretended to be a doctor, so he could visit my hospital room in Afghanistan and check up on me after I got hit by an improvised explosive device. Brett Marihugh. The most motivating and entertaining guy in our BUD/S class. Told stories for hours about his time as a cop before he joined. He pretended to be a doctor so he could visit my hospital room in Afghanistan and check up on me after I got hit by an IED. pic.twitter.com/OzraXYQDp4 Dan Crenshaw (@DanCrenshawTX) May 27, 2019 Watch Next: Congressman Dan Crenshaw Discusses Differences Between Conservative and Progressive Approaches to Government Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison talks to the media at a press conference announcing his new Cabinet at Parliament House on May 26, 2019 in Canberra, Australia. (Tracey Nearmy/Getty Images) Australias Scott Morrison Promises to Govern Humbly Scott Morrison has promised to govern with humility and compassion as coalition MPs and senators came together for their first post-election meeting. The prime minister welcomed 28 new Liberal and National colleagues to Canberra on May 28. Morrison insisted his hungry, committed and united team would focus on the aspirations of ordinary Australians during their third term in power. They are the reason we have the opportunity and the great privilege to serve them each and every day, he told colleagues at Parliament House. As I said just before the election, we must burn for the Australian people every single day that we have this privilege of serving them, in this party room and as a government. The 46th parliament is expected to open in the first week of July. Prime Minister Scott Morrison poses for photographs with incoming Government Members & Senators after a Joint Party Room meeting at Parliament House on May 28, 2019 in Canberra, Australia. Scott Morrisons new ministry will be sworn in tomorrow following his victory in the May 18 Federal election. (Tracey Nearmy/Getty Images) While the party room did not specifically discuss policy, the prime minister promised to do the little things well over the next three years and focus on maintaining a strong economy. He also urged his colleagues to keep reaching into Labor-held seats, noting his was the first minority government since 1943 to be returned with a majority. About two-thirds of the coalition party room has never served in opposition, and Morrison said they should wish never to do so because it was a wasteland in which to work. While the prime minister was greeted like a rock star, his deputy Michael McCormack was bracing for a pricklier reception when the Nationals met separately. Some Nationals are miffed the party failed to pick up an extra portfolio in a ministerial reshuffle and demanded an explanation as to why the agriculture and water resources roles were split. There were expectations the Nationals could receive an extra portfolio such as trade, but its number of cabinet spots slipped from five to four after the Liberals boosted their numbers in parliament. Well, theres always people that are winners and losers and Im sure for each of them theres disappointment, and joy for others, Nationals backbencher Keith Pitt told reporters. McCormack shot down disgruntled colleagues, saying the ministrys composition was a simple matter of arithmetic. The new ministry will be sworn in on Wednesday before cabinet meets for the first time, with several changes to Morrisons line up. The prime minister warned them all on Tuesday that there was a wealth of talent within the governments ranks that would keep the pressure on all the frontbench to perform. And he told his backbench colleagues he and his office would be accessible to them and he expected the same from his ministers. The blue carpet (parliaments ministerial wing) should be no stranger to the green (House) and red (Senate) carpet, Morrison said. It should be where the whole of the government comes together because that accessibility to the government leadership allows us to fix problems, know what the electorate really thinks and keep in touch with delivering what everyday Australians want. By Daniel McCulloch and Katina Curtis Autopsy Reveals 246 Bags of Cocaine Inside Man Who Died on Flight Authorities found 246 bags of cocaine inside the stomach and the intestine of a Japanese man who died on a flight from Mexico City on May 24. Udo N, 42, boarded a flight bound for Japans Narita International Airport from Mexico City and was pronounced dead when the flight made an emergency landing at an airport in Sonora, northwestern Mexico, on Friday, reported The Japan Times. Udo died due to a cerebral edema caused by a drug overdose. The plastic bags found inside his body were between 2.5 centimeters to 1 centimeter (1 inch and 0.4 inches), according to a statement by Sonoras attorney general on Twitter. Autopsia revela que fueron 246 envoltorios de narcoticos en el cuerpo del pasajero de origen japones, lo que le ocasiono la muere en el aeropuerto de #Hermosillo. Detalles https://t.co/xlO4FzOKo0 pic.twitter.com/aM59e1gqg4 FGJE SONORA (@fgjesonora) May 26, 2019 Udo traveled from the Colombian capital of Bogota to Mexico City and, from there, boarded his next flight to Narita International Airport. Jailed Mentally Ill Woman Forced to Give Birth in Isolation Cell A mentally ill woman in a Florida prison on cocaine possession charges was forced to give birth in an isolation cell In April as her cries for help were allegedly ignored. Public Defender Howard Finkelstein wrote a letter about the incident to Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony alleging that jail inmate Tammy Jackson started complaining about contractions to staffers at 3:16 a.m. on April 10 and by 10 a.m. shed given birth to a daughter on her own, reported the Miami Herald. She was forced to deliver her baby alone, Finkelstein wrote in the letter, requesting that medical and isolation practices at all Broward County detention facilities be reviewed. `Inmate gave birth alone in an isolation cell hours after asking for a doctor`: Tammy Jackson gave birth alone in an isolated jail cell in Florida, prompting an investigation. https://t.co/Qw7Q7x8mym #US pic.twitter.com/H7BW3EVOvb Patrick (@cahulaan) May 6, 2019 The Broward Sheriffs Office (BSO) told the Herald that it learned about the birth after two days had passed. A Well Path medical team, including a physician and two nurses, attended to the mother and child. Child Protective Investigations Section was notified, and the baby was placed with an appropriate caregiver, BSO spokesperson Gina Carter wrote in an email to the Miami Herald. Jackson, 34, was arrested and booked on cocaine possession charges on March 27 and was released but was arrested again after she failed to appear for pretrial services. Charges against her included trespassing, sleeping on a public street, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Finkelstein alleged that since the day of her arrest, the BSO knew about Jacksons pregnancy and in order for her medical condition to be monitored, she was placed in an infirmary. Two weeks after her arrest she started feeling contractions and sought help. According to Finkelstein, instead of helping her and carrying her to a hospital, the jail staff tried to reach an on-call physician. At 3:16 a.m. on April 10, Tammy Jackson, a mentally ill and pregnant prisoner in solitary confinement, started having contractions. By 10 a.m., she had given birth to her daughter, alone in a prison cell..https://t.co/XccJUlAFA3 via @RobynElyse Wonkette (@Wonkette) May 6, 2019 Not only was Ms. Jacksons health callously ignored, the life of her child was also put at grave risk, he wrote. Chief Assistant Public Defender Gordon Weekes told Miami Herald that the mother is still in custody but is recovering in a hospital. Just imagine going through the trauma of delivering a baby, screaming for help, people are within earshot, and no one comes to your aid from 4 a.m., when the contractions start, until 10 a.m., said Weekes. All the while knowing people are in earshot. Weekes didnt provide any information about Jacksons mental illness but said that it is significant. It is unconscionable that any woman, particularly a mentally ill woman, would be abandoned in her cell to deliver her own baby, Weekes wrote. Your staff did not protect either Ms. Jackson or her child. Despite their neglect and callous indifference, both Ms. Jackson and her child survived. It remains to be seen how this gross negligence will affect Ms. Jacksons already fragile mental health. Students inside at a booth set up by Taiwanese PC maker Quanta Computer at a campus recruit held at National Taiwan University (NTU) in Taipei on March 9, 2019. (Marie He/The Epoch Times) Beijing Courts Taiwanese College Students With All-Expenses-Paid Tours to China TAIPEI, TaiwanBeijings efforts to infiltrate and gain influence over the democratic island of Taiwan are now targeting local student leaders at top colleges and universities. Hsu Rui-fu, president of the graduate student association at National Taiwan University (NTU), one of Taiwans best universities, recently spoke to local daily The Liberty Times and broadcaster Formosa Television, about his experience while taking part in a cross-strait youth-learning tour in 2018. The seven-day tour was advertised as an all-expenses-paid cultural exchange for Taiwanese and mainland Chinese students to understand each other better. The tour was hosted by the Personal Exchanges and Cooperation Across the Taiwan Straits in Fujian Province Association, an organization run by the provincial government located right across the strip of water from Taiwan. China claims Taiwan as a renegade province, despite the latter being a de facto independent country with a democratically-elected government and a separate constitution, military, and currency. Beijing has continually attempted to influence public opinion in Taiwan, often with soft power and propaganda tactics aimed to persuade Taiwanese citizens to embrace the idea of unification with the mainland. According to Hsu, many of the Taiwanese participants were student leaders from other top schools, such as National Tsinghua Hua University (NTHU), National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), and National Chengchi University (NCCU). The mainland Chinese students also came from prestigious schools such as Peking University and the Renmin University of China. Hsu said the tour took the participants to Beijing, northwestern Chinas Shaanxi Province, and the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen. Propaganda Tour What troubled Hsu was the running theme throughout all the lectures and seminars that the students attended, which he described as agreeing with [Chinese leader] Xi Jinping. More specifically, Hsu said the seminars were titled, Xi Jinping Talks About Governing the Country, Xi Jinpings New Era of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics, and The Strategic Framework of One Belt, One Road. Hsu added that the person who gave a lecture on One Belt, One Road was Zhao Lei, a professor at the Chinese Communist Partys Central Party School, an institution for training young cadres. The One Belt, One Road initiative is the Chinese regimes flagship foreign policy project for building geopolitical influence via investments across Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. Hsu said that after each lecture, all participants were required to share and present what they had learned. Hsu explained that he decided to take part in the China tour because he wanted to learn about Chinas politics and economy, and how Chinese people think. I think some of the content [in these lectures and seminars] made sense. But most of the content was more along the lines of talking about the [Chinese Communist] Partys values, and values being promoted by Xi Jinping. I find this content harder to accept, he said in a May 27 interview with Formosa Television. As the tour continued, the mainland Chinese students began to keep their distance from Hsu, believing him to be a Taiwan separatist due to the opinions he shared, he added. The Chinese regime refers to those who voice support for Taiwanese identity, or those who advocate for the island to formally declare independence, as part of Taiwans separatist forces. Information about a similar cross-strait tour in 2017 can still be found on the website of Taiwans National Tsinghua Hua University (NTHU). A talent exchange center run by the Fujian government issued the invitation, specifically seeking 10 to 12 participants who are outstanding student leaders from top Taiwanese schools such as NTU, NTHU, and NCKU, to join a tour from Aug. 8 to Sept. 2, 2017. The invitation stated that the tour was free of charge. According to the tour itinerary, the students were to travel to Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. On the second day in Beijing, students would attend two seminars, titled The Concepts Behind Governing a Powerful Countrys Rise and The Development Program for the 13th Five-Year Plan, referring to Beijings economic plan for the years 2016 to 2020. Deeper Motive Beijing has an ulterior motive in recruiting Taiwanese college student leaders to participate in its tours, according to Tseng Chien-yuan, assistant professor at the Department of Public Administration at Taiwans Chung Hua University. In an interview with the Liberty Times, Tseng said that the Chinese regime seeks to influence these students because of the high possibility of these academically excelling youth to become Taiwanese politicians. If they do become politicians, Beijing hopes that they can become Chinas agents in Taiwan, to sway public opinion and influence local government policies to become more favorable toward Beijing. Hsu isnt the only student who has publicly spoken about their experiences while on Beijing-sponsored tours. Chen Gu-hsiung, president of NCKUs student union, told the Liberty Times that he took part in a similar tour to China last summer. Chen said he paid a little over 10,000 New Taiwan Dollars (about $317) to take part in a 10-day tour, which took him to Macau, Beijing, and Inner Mongolia. In Beijing, Chen said he was taken to visit the Taiwan affairs office, the United Front Work Department, and political agencies under Beijings municipal government. The United Front Work Department is a Party agency that carries out operations around the world to fulfill Beijings agenda. In Macau, Chen said the group attended a presentation about the greatness of the One Country, Two Systems model. Currently, the model is used in both Macau and Hong Kong, after the two former European colonies were returned to Chinese sovereignty in the late 1990s. The model was purportedly to preserve the cities autonomy and freedoms while under mainland Chinese rule. However, both cities have seen Beijings encroaching influence in recent years. In a January speech, Xi suggested the model as a way to bring Taiwan under the control of Beijing. However, Xis proposal angered many in Taiwan, which eventually led to a street protest attended by about 3,000 locals in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, in early April. Bill Moving Through California Legislature That Would Keep President Trump Off Primary Ballot Unless He Releases Tax Returns After passing the California Senate in a 27-10 vote, a bill that would require all presidential candidates to publicly release the past five years of their income tax returns in order to appear on all future presidential primary ballots has moved to the state Assembly. On May 28, the bills authors, State Senators Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) and Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg), announced that amendments were added to SB 27 that would require gubernatorial candidates to release their tax returns. The legislation, also known by its formal name the Presidential Tax Transparency and Accountability Act, would make the returns public on the California secretary of states website. While not stating President Trump by name in the legislation, the authors of the bill have made it clear that they are mainly targeting the President with the bill. This President continues to make decisions that undermine our national security interests, said Senator Wiener in a statement. We deserve to know what is compelling him to take these bizarre actions. Requiring presidential candidates to disclose basic financial information is a common sense step that builds trust between the American people and our elected leader. The legislation also includes an urgency clause so that it would take effect immediately upon being signed into law, so that it could become law in time for the 2020 elections. In at least 20 other states, bills have been introduced that would require all presidential candidates to release their tax returns in order to be on the presidential primary ballot, although none have yet become law. Californias bill is expected to pass in the state Assembly, which has a 61-19 Democratic supermajority. Governor Gavin Newsom has not indicated whether he will sign the legislation or not. His predecessor, Jerry Brown, who didnt release his own tax returns, vetoed similar legislation in 2017. Jim Stanley, a spokesman from the office of California Assembly Minority Leader Marie Waldron (R-Escondido) told The Epoch Times, Jerry Brown didnt release his tax returns and the Democrats didnt have a problem with that, he added. When asked about how the votes would look on the Assembly floor and whether it would fall along party lines, Stanley responded, There [are] potentially some Assembly Democrats that arent planning on releasing their tax returns. This might put them in a tricky situation. As to whether Gov. Newsom would sign the legislation into law or veto like his predecessor, he said that its difficult to know. Newsom plays his cards close to his chest, he said. Questions of the bills constitutionality have been raised, since no stipulations requiring a candidates financial information are in the Constitution. However, states are allowed to regulate the manner of elections, such as requiring a minimum number of signatures for candidates to appear on the state ballot. This leaves SB 27 in a legal gray area. The bill has been referred to the state Assembly and is currently under review by the Elections and Redistricting Committee pending a vote. If passed by the committee, it will go the Assembly floor for a full vote, then to Gov. Newsoms desk. A group of illegal aliens is processed by Border Patrol agents after crossing from Mexico into Yuma, Ariz., on April 13, 2019. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times) Brennan, Clapper Call Border Crisis Nonexistent Threat in Lawsuit Against Border Wall News Analysis WASHINGTONSixty-two former government officials submitted a brief to a California district court on May 13 in support of a lawsuit against President Donald Trump, who wants to use Defense Department funds to help build a wall on the southern border. The brief is signed by a whos-who of officials from the Obama era, including John Brennan, CIA director from 2013 to 2017; James Clapper, director of national intelligence from 2010 to 2017; John Kerry, secretary of state from 2013 to 2017; Susan Rice, U.N. ambassador from 2009 to 2013; Samantha Power, U.N. ambassador from 2013 to 2017; Janet Napolitano, secretary of homeland security from 2009 to 2013; Leon Panetta, secretary of defense from 2011 to 2013; and Chuck Hagel, secretary of defense from 2013 to 2015. The 62 officials argue that the border crisis is a nonexistent threat and a manufactured crisis that rests on falsehoods and fearmongering. There is no factual basis for the declaration of a national emergency for the purpose of circumventing the appropriations process and reprogramming billions of dollars in funding to construct a wall at the southern border, the officials state in the brief. Trump declared a national emergency on Feb. 15, which allowed for the shift of $600 million from the Treasury Department and $6.1 billion from the military budget toward border-wall construction. The $6.1 billion from the Defense budget includes $2.5 billion reallocated from the counter drug activity purse and $3.6 billion from the military construction budget. Only the construction money is dependent on the emergency declaration. Were going to confront the national security crisis on our southern border, and were going to do it one way or the other. We have to do it, Trump said at the time. We have tremendous amounts of drugs flowing into our country, much of it coming from the southern border. The House and Senate subsequently passed a privileged resolution to terminate the national emergency, which Trump vetoed on March 15. A Numbers Game In the brief, Brennan et al. argue that the number of illegal border crossings has been near historic lows. Border Patrol apprehensions at the southern border declined dramatically when Trump took office, resulting in a 40-year low in fiscal 2017which the brief states. The apprehension numbers increased by 30 percent from fiscal 2017 (303,916) to fiscal 2018 (396,579), which the brief calls a modest increase. The brief does not mention that former Department of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen told the House Homeland Security Committee on March 6, At the current pace, we are on track to encounter close to 1 million illegal aliens at our southern border this year. Although the former officials say apprehension numbers are near historic lows, they omit the context around the population of the illegal aliens now entering the United States. In the early to mid-2000s, Border Patrol apprehensions ranged from 900,000 to 1.6 million people annually. But those were often the same peoplesingle males from Mexicoand it was easy to return them, according to Brandon Judd, president of the National Border Patrol Council. We would arrest them, send them back across the border, and then they would just come back. I mean, I arrested the same group three times in one shift, he told The Epoch Times on March 20. But now, thats not what were dealing with. Were on pace to have about 900,000 arrests, but thats 900,000 people that were dealing with. Whereas back in the early-2000s, we were dealing with somewhere around 500,000, 600,000 people. We were just arresting the same person over and over and over again. So were dealing with something thats just never been dealt with before. And if we dont get the support from Congress, were going to fail. Period. However, Brennan, Clapper, Kerry, and others said the recent sharp increase in apprehensions does not present a national emergency because the bulk of the population increase consists of family units and unaccompanied children who are forced to cross illegally, as ports of entry are unable to handle large numbers every day and use a metering system to cap processing. The brief does not mention that about 40 percent of Border Patrol agents are currently unable to secure the border because they are tied up with processing, transporting, and providing humanitarian assistance to the large groups of family units and unaccompanied minors crossing illegally. Agents are taking an average of 65 illegal immigrants to the hospital every day, according to testimony by Acting Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan during a House hearing on May 22. Mexican cartels and smuggling networks are sending large groups of mostly Central Americans across the border to tie up Border Patrol resources, while simultaneously smuggling drugs and criminals across unpatrolled areas nearby. Border Patrol encountered two large groups (each consisting of 100 or more illegal aliens) in fiscal 2017, and 13 in fiscal 2018. So far this fiscal year, more than 100 large groups have illegally crossed the border. Terror Threat The former officials state in the brief that there is no evidence of a terrorist or national security emergency at the southern border. The brief uses an NBC News report that said only six people who are in the terrorism database were apprehended on the southern border between October 2018 and March 2019. However, the brief did not mention the 3,000 special-interest aliens that Nielsen said were apprehended at the southwest border last year. Special-interest aliens (SIAs) are labeled as such for their travel patterns and behavior. They hail from dozens of countries in the Middle East, South Asia, and North Africa, where terrorist groups operate. This does not mean that all SIAs are terrorists, but rather that the travel and behavior of such individuals indicates a possible nexus to nefarious activity (including terrorism) and, at a minimum, provides indicators that necessitate heightened screening and further investigation, DHS said in a statement on Jan. 7. In the first five months of this fiscal year, at least 25,000 illegal aliens evaded capture by Border Patrol in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas. We actually dont know who they are. So far, here in south Texas, weve apprehended folks from 44 different countries. These are from the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Yemen, Iraq, Pakistan, Iran, you name it, said Raul Ortiz, then-deputy chief Border Patrol agent for the Rio Grande Valley sector. Former Acting ICE Director Tom Homan said that if illegal aliens arent caught by Border Patrol, theres no record of them even being in the country. And thats whats concerning. The whole world knows our southern border is in chaos, the whole world knows if you want to come to United States illegally, nows the time to come because of whats going on at the border, Homan told The Epoch Times on May 24. Everybody keeps saying, Well, this is not a really a crisis beyond a humanitarian. No, it is a crisis of national security proportions. Because our borders vulnerable and its vulnerable to terrorists who want to try to come into this country. Wall Cant Fix Trafficking In the 23-page brief, Brennan, Clapper, Kerry, and others also state that there is no human or drug trafficking emergency that can be addressed by a wall at the southern border. The brief says most drugs come through ports of entry or via the postal system, which a wall would not stop. Customs and Border Protection statistics account for the volume of drugs seizedwhich is predictably higher at ports of entry where single loads are generally larger and more detection equipment is available. Border Patrol drug seizures between ports of entry in fiscal 2018 totaled almost 500,000 pounds along the whole southwest border461,030 pounds of marijuana, 11,314 pounds of methamphetamine, 6,550 pounds of cocaine, 568 pounds of heroin, and 388 pounds of fentanyl (enough fentanyl to kill all Americans four times over, according to Nielsen). In the Rio Grande City area of Texas, agents seized 42,000 pounds of narcotics in the first five months of this fiscal year. However, were not even probably catching about 10 percent of it, Ortiz said. That would mean 378,000 pounds of drugs have made it across into the Rio Grande City area between the ports of entry. The cartels are starting to push alien traffic out here [where] theres nothing [but] a little, bitty village, Ortiz said. And why are they doing that? Not because its [in] close proximity to a community. No, because the cartels are using that as a diversion so they can tie up our hands so our agents cant get to the narcotics or to smuggled alien traffic. Brennan and the other former officials state that most human trafficking victims in the United States are citizens. And the three states with the highest per capita trafficking reporting rates are not even located along the southern border, the brief states, citing a CNN report. There is no mention in the brief of the more than 3,100 cases of fraudulent families that Homeland Security has detected in the last several monthsincluding cases in which children are being rented to adults, who pose as a family unit for quick release. For instance, on April 4, Border Patrol agents apprehended a Honduran male with a 1-year-old child. During questioning, the man admitted the child was not in fact his, according to Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Chief Rodolfo Karisch in a congressional hearing. In 2014, fewer than 1 percent of all men apprehended by Border Patrol in the Rio Grande Valley Sector had a child with them. That number now sits at 50 percent, according to Karisch. McAleenan said at a recent congressional hearing that smugglers are using a loophole in U.S. law to drive people across the border. Whats happening primarily and what we saw, really starting early last year, was increased awareness that theres a vulnerability in our legal system due to to the reinterpretation of the Flores Settlementthat if an adult arrives with a child, they have a likelihood of staying in the United States, McAleenan said. And smugglers are capitalizing on that; theyre directly advertising that fact. Smugglers are advertising, almost at a retail level, in communities [in Central America]. Social media has made that communication easier and faster and even more challenging for law enforcement to deal with. The brief by the officials also doesnt mention the report by a former Homeland Security agent who worked in the child-trafficking unit, who said in January that about 10,000 children are smuggled into the United States every year to be sold as sex slaves. For a decade of [my] service, I was stationed at the border office in Calexico, California, Timothy Ballard wrote in a Jan. 30 op-ed published on the Fox News website. Based on my extensive experience fighting transnational crime along the southern border, I know that we should absolutely finish building the wall, for the sake of the children. Ballard is now founder and CEO of Operation Underground Railroad, an organization dedicated to rescuing children from sex trafficking. Humanitarian Concerns Clapper, Brennan, and others said Trumps emergency proclamation will only exacerbate the humanitarian concerns that do exist at the southern border. The group says the metering policy at the ports of entry is used by the administration to turn away the families fleeing extreme violence and persecution in their home countries. Evidence shows that most of the illegal immigrants entering the country are coming for jobs or family reunification, and almost 90 percent will not be found eligible for asylum. Most dont turn up for their immigration court hearings. In Yuma, which is the third-busiest sector in the nation for illegal crossings, only 6.4 percent of illegal aliens make political asylum claims at the border, according to Yuma Deputy Chief Patrol Agent Carl Landrum in a May 22 press release. But Border Patrol is so overwhelmed by the sheer numbers, they are forced to release family units as quickly as possible, to make room for the next influx. The brief signed by the 62 former government officials was part of a lawsuit brought by the Sierra Club. On May 24, San Francisco District Judge Haywood S. Gilliam Jr. placed an injunction on the Trump administration using Defense Department funds for border fencing, saying irreparable harm would ensue if the administration moved forward before a full hearing takes place. British Airways logos are seen on tail fins at Heathrow Airport in west London, Britain, on Feb. 23, 2018. (Hannah McKay/Reuters) British Airways to Resume Pakistan Flights Next Week After a Decade ISLAMABADBritish Airways will resume flights to Pakistan next week a decade after it suspended operations following a major hotel bombing, becoming the first Western airline to restart flights to the South Asian country. BA halted service to Pakistan in the wake of the 2008 Marriott Hotel bombing in the capital Islamabad that took place during a period of devastating Islamist militant violence in Pakistan. Security has since improved, with militant attacks sharply down in the mainly Muslim country of 208 million people, reviving Pakistan as a destination for tourist and investors. The final touches are coming together for the airlines return ahead of the first flight on June 2, British Airways said in a statement. It will launch a three-per-week service to London Heathrow, it said. Were on board, Pakistani Civil Aviation spokeswoman Farah Hussain said about the flights resumption. BA, which is owned by Spanish-registered IAG, will begin the London Heathrow-Islamabad service with the airlines newest long-haul aircraft, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. At present, only loss-making national carrier Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flies directly from Pakistan to Britain, but its aging fleet of planes is a frequent source of complaints by passengers. Middle Eastern carriers Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and Emirates have a strong presence in Pakistan and have been eating into PIAs dwindling market share. Turkish Airlines also lays on a regular service to Pakistan. Islamabad has been running international advertising campaigns to rejuvenate its tourism sector, which was wiped out by Islamist violence that destabilized the country following the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks in the United States and the U.S.-led war in Afghanistan. We hope customers in both the UK and Pakistan will enjoy the classically British service we offer, with thoughtful bespoke touches, Andrew Brem, Chief Commercial Officer at British Airways, said in BAs statement. BA said there will be a halal meal option in every cabin and the airline would also ensure sauces in every meal do not contain alcohol or pork. By Asif Shahzad Revenue Department Jobs 2019 in Nasirabad Latest Revenue Department Posts Naseerabad 2021 Revenue Department Government of Balochistan required experienced, strong and energetic personnel for the posts of Naib Tehsildar, Stenographer, Assistant Computer Operator, Clerk, Patwari, Driver, Record Lifter, Mali, Sweeper in Nasirabad. How to Apply on Revenue Department Job Advertisement Apply as per details in job advertisement. In some cases, you may apply online at vacancies after registering at https://www.jobz.pk online. Note: Beware of Fraudulent Recruiting Activities. If an employer asks to pay money for any purpose, do not pay at all and report us at contact us form. Apply as per instuctions & dates mentioned in official job ad. Govt jobs may not be applied online here. Human typing error is possible. Error & omissions excepted. Footage of the brutal attack was captured on surveillance cameras in Sydney, Australia, on May 28, 2019. (NSW Police) Cameras Capture Vicious Street Attack on Pregnant Woman in Australia An off-duty police officer arrested a woman after she allegedly attacked a pregnant woman in a vicious street-assault, which was caught on video. NSW Police, cited by SBS News, said a 28-year-old woman was in custody after a 30-weeks pregnant woman was attacked on May 28 in Sydney, Australia, on her way to work. Detective Chief Inspector Adam Johnson told reporters on Tuesday, It was just a totally unprovoked, unwarranted, unnecessary attack. Australias Nine News further cited Johnson as praising a passerby for helping the injured victim. The civilian did not hesitate to leap to the rescue of the pregnant woman and we commend his bravery, Johnson said, the news outlet reported. We would also like to praise the swift response of the probationary constable who saved the woman from further harm. The 26-year-old victim was walking along the sidewalk when the assailant approached and lashed out with a barrage of strikes to the pregnant womans head. Footage of the disturbing incident also shows the attacker pulling the pregnant womans hair and ramming her into a pole, while the victim appears to clutch her stomach. Nine News reporter Tiffiny Genders shared the video on Twitter, saying: The pregnant woman has bruises, swelling and is now missing a huge clump of hair. Shes still under observation in hospital, with tests being carried out on her unborn baby. Here it is. Just disgusting. At least 10 punches thrown. The pregnant woman has bruises, swelling and is now missing a huge clump of hair. Shes still under observation in hospital, with tests being carried out on her unborn baby. @9NewsSyd pic.twitter.com/Z7t8U5oGMj Tiffiny Genders (@tiffgenders) May 28, 2019 2GB radio reporter Ben Fordham posted a statement by the victims husband: We have been informed that the baby of todays senseless attack victim is healthy and unharmed. The brave mother who used her hands to protect her baby instead of herself is recovering at this stage. We thank the Surry Hills Police for their assistance, the medical team at the RPA Hospital for their continued care and the first responders who stopped this barbaric act. The husband added, You are all our heroes. The alleged attacker was taken to Surry Hills Police Station and charged with assault, The Daily Mail reported. The suspect made an initial court appearance Tuesday and was denied bail. She remains in custody. Police Release Video of Fatal Officer-involved Shooting of Australian Woman The Minneapolis Police Department recently released footage of a 2017 incident in which a police officer shot an unarmed woman. Released on Thursday, May 23, the video shows the tense moments after U.S.-Australian citizen Justine Damond was fatally shot outside her home after she made a 911 call to report a possible rape. Former Minneapolis police officer Mohamed Noorlater found guilty of third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in connection with Damonds deathis seen in the footage visibly distressed and pacing nervously. Noor, who is the first police officer in Minnesota to be convicted in an on-duty fatal shooting, is seen in the video burying his face in one hand while another officer can be heard telling him keep your mouth shut. One of the clips shows Noor pacing while his partner Matthew Harrity performs CPR on the victim. Noors partner can be heard shouting to the woman, Stay with me. *Warning: contains sensitive footage and profane language. Another clip shows Noor covered in sweat and burying his face in one hand. The officer asks Noor if hes alright then tells him to keep to yourself, keep your mouth shut until you have to say anything to anybody. The footage also features Sgt. Shannon Barnette, Noors supervisor, who arrived on the scene and ordered it secured. Barnettes body camera footage shows her asking Noors partner what happened. Harrity responds, She just came up out of nowhere. On the side of the thing. We both got spooked. I had my gun out. I didnt fire. Then Noor pulled out and fired. A jury found Noor guilty on April 30 on the basis of evidence that includes the newly released footage. Noor remains in custody pending sentencing, which is scheduled for June 7. The Associated Press contributed to this report. A Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) sign is seen at the U.S. headquarters in Auburn Hills, Mich., on May 25, 2018. (Rebecca Cook/Reuters) Carmakers FCA and Renault to Go Public on Tie-Up Talks MILAN/PARISFiat Chrysler and Renault are set to confirm tie-up talks on May 27, with the board of the French carmaker called to an early morning meeting to discuss the situation. It comes after news broke over the weekend that two of the worlds leading car companies are in talks on a comprehensive global combination that could address some of the main weaknesses of both. The plan under discussion would involve some transfer of equity, according to a source close to the discussions. Renault Chairman Jean-Dominique Senard presented an FCA-Renault merger plan to French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire on May 24, Les Echos reported on its website. The French government has a 15 percent stake in Renault. The deal being discussed would include guarantees covering corporate governance and employment in France and Italy, the French daily said. Pressure for consolidation among carmakers has grown with the challenges posed by electrification, tightening emissions regulations and expensive new technologies being developed for connected and autonomous vehicles. Earlier this year FCA Chairman John Elkanna member of Italys Agnelli dynasty that controls the companystressed the familys commitment to the automotive industry. But he also added that they were prepared to take bold and creative decisions to help build a solid and attractive future for the company. A source said earlier an announcement from Italo-American FCA could provide some concrete although initial details but added the situation was still fluid. A separate source with direct knowledge of the situation confirmed that the Renault board were to meet early on May 27 at 8.00 a.m. local time (1.00 a.m. EDT) to discuss the issue. Regional Rationale FCA has a highly profitable North American RAM trucks business and Jeep brand but has been losing money in Europe, where it may also struggle to keep pace with looming carbon dioxide emissions curbs. Renault, by contrast, is an electric-car pioneer with relatively fuel-efficient engine technologies and a strong presence in emerging markets, but no U.S. business. Any tie-up would likely face political and workforce hurdles, particularly in Italy. However, most of FCAs European plants are running below 50 percent capacity. A deal between FCA and Renault would not preclude a consolidation of Renaults alliance with Japanese carmaker Nissan, a source told Reuters on May 25. The Renault-Nissan partnership, underpinned by cross-shareholdings, has been strained by the scandal surrounding former chairman Carlos Ghosn, who was ousted after his arrest last year. Speculation about the future of Fiat Chrysler, often seen as a potential M&A target, intensified after the sudden death of long-serving former CEO Sergio Marchionne almost one year ago. In October last year, just after three months he was picked to replace Marchionne, new CEO Mike Manley agreed to sell FCAs car parts unit Magneti Marelli to Japans Calsonic Kasnsei, owned by U.S. private equity firm KKR. The sale was completed early this month for 5.8 billion euros. According to reports earlier this year the manufacturer had also restarted talks with Frances PSA Groupwhich have been a recurrent theme over the years. Fiat Chrysler and Renault together would have a combined market capitalization of more than 32 billion euros ($36 billion) and total global sales of 8.7 million vehicles. Fiat Chrysler has a valuation of just under 18 billion euros and Renault around 14.4 billion An alliance that included Nissan would vault the ensemble to the rank of global No.1 carmaker with 13.8 million annual sales. It would also maintain a foothold in China, where both FCA and Renault are marginal players. By Giulio Piovaccari & Laurence Frost Rescue workers operate at the site where sixteen people were injured in a suspected stabbing by a man, in Kawasaki, Japan, on May 28, 2019. (Kyodo/via REUTERS) Mass Stabbing in Kawasaki City Near Tokyo Leaves 2 Dead, 17 Hurt, Including Children A man went on a stabbing rampage in Japans Kawasaki City, southwest of central Tokyo, on May 28, killing two people and injuring at least 17 others, including school-age children. According to local media, the man killed one girl and an adult who may have been the father of one of the children. The attack, which took place during the morning rush hour, left 16 other girls between the ages of 6 and 12 and a woman wounded. The middle-aged attacker died of a self-inflicted wound. One eyewitness told NHK that the attack occurred by a bus stop. I heard the sound of lots of ambulances and I saw a man lying near a bus stop bleeding, the man, who wasnt identified, told NHK. There is another bus stop near the elementary school and I also saw elementary schoolchildren lying on the ground Its a quiet neighborhood, its scary to see this kind of thing happen. According to the public broadcaster, the attacker began slashing at people as they were waiting at a bus stop. Two knives, along with some of the victims, were found in a nearby park, the broadcaster reported. Scores of officials, including policemen and firemen, were present at Kawasakis Tama Ward, near Noborito Station. I heard fire engines coming in the morning and I saw a man lying on the ground bleeding, a man who lives nearby told NHK. I saw many elementary school children lying on the ground near a school bus stop. School rucksacks were scattered all over the place. Dai Nagase, a spokesman for the Kawasaki Fire Department, told AFP: We received an emergency call at 7:44 a.m., which said four elementary schoolchildren were stabbed. A motive for the attack was undetermined. U.S. President Donald Trump has sent his condolences to the victims, saying that Americans stand with Japan and the victims of the mass stabbing. Violent crime is rare in Japan but there have periodically been high-profile incidents that have shocked the nation. In 2018, a man was arrested in central Japan after he stabbed one person to death and injured two others on a bullet train. In 2016, a man stabbed and killed 19 people at a disability center south of Tokyo. A stabbing spree on a school bus and a commuter bus in a Tokyo suburb in 2010 injured more than a dozen people. Two years earlier, a 28-year-old man drove a truck into a crowded pedestrian crossing in Tokyo, killing three people, and then fatally stabbed four others. Reuters contributed to this report. Fight Breaks Out in Plane When Passenger Demands Parachute, Attempts to Open Door A man on a flight suddenly demanded a parachute after pounding on the windows and trying to open the hatch of the airplane. He was subdued by both passengers and attendants, and taken by security guards when the plane landed, according to state sponsored Chinese news agency Beijing Youth News. The incident occurred on the evening of May 20 as flight FU6509 flew through Chinas southern provinces, from Fuzhou City to Kunming City. The man was not identified, and was released on May 24. The plane landed safely, and only one flight attendant received slight injuries. No other passengers were harmed. The man was said to be suffering from mental illness, according to all Chinese media reports. Mental illness is the reason given for all instances of abnormal behavior in China. The Fight for the Parachute 40 minutes before arriving in Kunming, the man was said to have lost control of his behavior, according to the Beijing Youth News. Before others began recording footage of the man, he used his cellphone to bang on the windows and attempted to open the hatch, according to the Beijing Youth News. He also reportedly shouted loudly, I want a parachute! Footage that appears to have been captured by a female flight attendant shows the struggle between the man and other people on the plane. The people first seen are a flight attendant, a safety officer wearing black, and the man in blue who had shown reckless behavior, according to the Beijing Youth News. The man in black used a sleeper hold to subdue the man in blue. The man in blue loses his grip on the flight attendant as he struggled with the safety officer. They press the man in blue down onto the seats, while two other passengers join in and restrain the man. However, he can still be heard. Once the man was restrained, he began screaming loudly. He then repeatedly shouted, Save me! A female flight attendant speaks on the loud speaker over his screams, asking passengers to remain seated. When the plane landed, the man was turned over to airport security officers. He was then released on May 24. The report said only one flight attendant was slightly injured, and no other passengers were harmed. First satellites for Musks Starlink internet venture launched into orbit CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.SpaceX, the private rocket company of high-tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, launched the first batch of 60 small satellites into low-Earth orbit last week for Musks new Starlink internet service. A Falcon 9 rocket carrying the satellites blasted off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, clearing a key hurdle for a business venture that Musk hopes will generate much-needed cash for his larger ambitions in space. The launch came a week after two back-to-back countdowns for the mission were scrubbedonce due to high winds over the Cape and the next night in order to update satellite software and triple-check all systems. The 60 satellites flown into space were released into orbit as planned about an hour after last weeks launch, and the Falcon 9s main-stage reusable booster rocket flew back to Earth for a successful landing on a barge floating in the Atlantic. SpaceX said it would probably take another day to learn whether all the satellites deployed were functioning properly. Each weighs about 500 pounds (227 kg), making them the heaviest payload carried aloft by SpaceX to date. They represent the initial phase of a planned constellation capable of beaming signals for high-speed internet service from space to paying customers around the globe. Musk has said he sees the new Starlink venture as an important new revenue stream for his California-based Space Exploration Technologies, or SpaceX, whose launch service income he expects to top out at around $3 billion a year. He told reporters a fortnight ago that makes Starlink pivotal in helping pay for his larger goals of developing a new spacecraft to fly paying customers to the moon and for eventually trying to colonize Mars. We think this is a key stepping stone on the way toward establishing a self-sustaining city on Mars and a base on the moon, said billionaire Musk, who is also chief executive officer of automaker Tesla Inc. At least 12 launches carrying similar payloads are needed to achieve constant internet coverage of most of the world, Musk said. For now, Starlink is only authorized for U.S. operations. Musk faces stiff competition. Airbus SE-backed OneWeb launched its own clutch of satellites in February, while LeoSat Enterprises and Canadas Telesat are also working to build data networks. In each network, the tiny satellites orbit closer to Earth than traditional communications satellites, a technological shift made possible by advances in laser technology and computer chips. Musk said SpaceX would begin approaching customers later this year or next year. As many as 2,000 satellites will be launched per year, with the ultimate objective of placing up to 12,000 into orbit. By Joey Roulette (FILE PHOTO) A sign welcomes visitors to the Los Alamos Laboratory after they cross over the Omega Bridge June 14, 1999 in Los Alamos, New Mexico. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Former Scientist at Top US Lab Charged with Lying About Links to Chinese Program A former scientist for a U.S. national laboratory has been charged with lying about his contacts with a recruitment program designed to attract foreign experts to work in China. The recruitment program has come under increased scrutiny in Washington over its role in enabling technology transfer to China from the United States. Turab Lookman, 67, of Santa Fe, New Mexico, pleaded not guilty to the charges on May 28. Lookman, who worked for the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), was asked in an employment questionnaire and by federal officials whether he had been recruited by the Chinese regimes Thousand Talents Program, or if he had applied for it, federal prosecutors said in a statement, The Associated Press reported. In an indictment filed last week, prosecutors alleged that between November 2017 and September 2018, Lookman denied his involvement with the program when he, in fact, applied for it, charging him with three counts of making false statements. Lookman was invited to participate in the Thousand Talents Program, then applied for and was accepted into the program, the indictment said. He also received compensation after being accepted. The program was established by the Chinese government to recruit people with access to and knowledge of foreign technology and intellectual property, prosecutors say. The scientist, who is currently released on bail while awaiting trial, faces up to five years in prison if convicted, prosecutors said. Lookman joined LANL in 1999 and worked there until recently, the Albuquerque Journal reported. Its unclear whether he resigned or was fired. In 2017, he was named Laboratory Fellow, one of the labs highest honors for its staff, according to a LANL press release at the time. Lookman, who also is a fellow of the American Physical Society, worked in LANLs Theoretical Division as an expert in the computational physics of materials, complex fluids, and nonlinear dynamics. His work in the field, which includes two books and more than 250 publications, also received enormous worldwide attention, according to the press release. LANL, located in northern New Mexico, is a national laboratory run by the U.S. Department of Energy, and is best known as the birthplace of the atomic bomb, which was developed at the site decades ago as part of the Manhattan Project. The laboratory now is tasked with engaging in science projects relating to national security, including ensuring the safety of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, developing technology to counter threats from weapons of mass destruction, and solving problems relating to energy, infrastructure, health, and global security. Thousand Talents This isnt the first time a scientist has been prosecuted for his involvement with the Thousand Talents Program. In 2018, a former research oceanographer at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a bureau of the U.S. Department of Commerce, was sentenced to time served for accepting a salary from China. He had been working for both the U.S. agency and two Chinese programs, one of which was Thousand Talents. The program, which has recruited at least 6,000 experts since 2008, has drawn increased scrutiny by U.S. officials because of its role in the theft of U.S. intellectual property and other technology-related secrets. In April 2018, the U.S. National Intelligence Council produced an analysis that described Thousand Talents as Chinas flagship talent program and probably the largest in terms of funding. The council raised concerns over the programs goal to facilitate the legal and illicit transfer of U.S. technology, intellectual property, and know-how to China. The National Institute of Health (NIH), the largest funder of biomedical research in the United States, also sounded the alarm last year, warning that the program could be used to transfer key research, produced using federal research grants, to China. The NIH has since started investigating NIH-funded foreign scientists at more than 55 U.S. institutions. Thus far, the investigations have led to the firing of three Asian researchers at a top cancer research center in Texas, and two Chinese Americans at Atlantas Emory University. Georgia Son Drowns While Trying to Save His Confused Father Who Stepped Off Their Boat A Jonesboro man was found drowned in West Point Lake near LaGrange, Georgia, on Monday. Deputies with the Troup County Sheriffs Office were dispatched to West Point Lake under the Cameron Mill Road bridge regarding a possible drowning, the Sheriffs Office said to wrbl.com. Once on the scene, deputies were advised that a 34-year old male had jumped in the water from his boat in an attempt to save his father, 64-years of age, who had accidentally fell in the water as the boat was tied under the bridge. The body has been identified by the Troup County Sheriffs Office as Jeremiah Israel, according to the LaGrange Daily News. Israel and his father were fishing on Sunday, according to Troup County Sheriffs Sgt. Stewart Smith. Both fell asleep after tying their boat to the bridge that night. At midnight, the father, thinking they were at home, mistakenly walked out of the boat to find a bathroom. The son then jumped into the water to save his dad. Israels father was saved by a group of boaters and treated at WellStar West Georgia, said Smith. He has since been released. Unfortunately, Israel never appeared again until his body was recovered by the Sheriffs Office. Upon news of his death, some of Israels friends took to Facebook to express their grief. On the last post on Israels personal Facebook account, made on May 26, friends conveyed their prayers and condolences to the family. One said: RIP. You did what any loving son would do. You helped save your dad. Another commented: Damn. Went out being the funny spirit he always was. The incident is being investigated as an accident by Georgias Department of Natural Resources. The scene of the accident has been blocked off for the investigation. Due to a law enforcement operation on West Point Lake, boaters use caution in the area of Yellow Jacket / Cameron Mill Rd. bridge. Also the Yellow Jacket boat ramp is closed until further notice, the Troup County Sheriffs Office tweeted on May 27. West lake point is a man-made reservoir impounded by the West Point Dam. The dam was built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the Chattahoochee River to provide flood control and hydroelectric power. Volunteers fill sand bags for distribution throughout the area for flood prone areas around homes, at the soccer field parking lot in Chaffee Crossing, Ark., on May 25, 2019. Jamie Mitchell/The Southwest Times Record via AP Historic Flooding Predicted Along Arkansas River FORT SMITH, Ark.Residents in parts of Arkansas are preparing for what meteorologists have predicted will be the worst flooding in recorded history along parts of the Arkansas River over the coming week. The National Weather Service said in the statement that levee over topping is likely, with significant impacts to life and property across a very large area. The Arkansas River reached 38.2 feet on May 26 near Fort Smith, Arkansas, surpassing the historic crest of 38.1 feet in April 1945. Spokeswoman Karen Santos said the city of 80,000 residents thats on the border with Oklahoma was in preparedness and warning mode. She said one home was completely submerged and about 500 homes either have water very close or in them. Authorities predict hundreds more homes and businesses will flood by the time the river crests there on May 28 at 42.5 feet. Across the river from Fort Smith, the tiny town of Moffett, Oklahoma, population about 120, was submerged by the afternoon on May 25, Sequoyah County Emergency Management Director Steve Rutherford told the Times Record in Fort Smith. In downtown Van Buren, Arkansas, just northeast of Fort Smith, Rickey Jones, co-owner of BrokenJoes Screen Printing, was among several business owners who put sandbags in front of their entrances. Were going to be stacking things as high as we can in here, taking out electronics, and helping out our neighbors, Jones said. On the afternoon of May 26, a National Guard helicopter was sent to rescue two Army Corps of Engineers workers who had become trapped in a building as the Arkansas River rose, said Melody Daniel, an Arkansas Department of Emergency Management spokeswoman. The river had risen and spread to a point where the lock and dam building itself was no longer accessible by boat or road, said Daniel, who took video footage of the rescue at the Trimble Lock and Dam, located on the county line of Crawford and Sebastian counties. She said there were also several road closures due to high water. The water flowing into the Arkansas River has come from rains in southeast Kansas and northeastern Oklahoma, said National Weather Service meteorologist Willie Gilmore. All that water funneled down into the tributaries that go into the Arkansas River, Gilmore said. In Tulsa, authorities advised residents of some neighborhoods on May 26 to consider leaving for higher ground because the river is stressing the citys old levee system. A condo building is seen under construction surrounded by houses with condo towers in the distance in Vancouver. The federal mortgage stress test has had a cooling effect on the housing market and industry groups want it modified. (The Canadian Press/Darryl Dyck) Industry Group Lobbies Ottawa to Ease Mortgage Stress Test One-size-fits-all not working for Canadas diverse regional housing markets OTTAWAA better balance between encouraging home ownership and curtailing household debt is needed in Canada, says Paul Taylor, president and CEO of Mortgage Professionals Canada (MPC). The target of MPCs return to the nations capital to meet with MPs and senators in the run-up to the federal election is the now-infamous mortgage stress test, which, it says, is punishing first-time homebuyers and the Canadian economy. The industry group, which speaks on behalf of more than 11,500 members and over 1,000 businesses in Canada, never suggested that the stress test was the wrong idea, but that it needs to be eased. MPC says the current stress test reduces homebuying power by 20 percent on average. For individuals, the knock-on effects of not owning a home are reduced financial stability and less development of communities, local commerce, culture, and civic life. Were really concerned that if you create a generation of renters, 20 years from now those folks that were precluded to build equity in a home that they own will be a whole lot financially worse off than they otherwise would have been, said Taylor at a press conference on May 27. The mortgage stress testpart of what is known as the B-20 guidelinecame into effect in January 2018. It requires homebuyers to qualify at the greater of the Bank of Canadas 5-year mortgage rate or 2 percent above their contract mortgage rate. MPC chair Michael Wolfe is asking MPs to encourage policy-makers to rework the stress test in three ways. He suggests changing the 2 percent add-on to 0.75 percent above the contract mortgage rate and removing the comparison with the Bank of Canada rate. He also recommends exempting borrowers who have met their mortgage obligations for 5 years and who want to renew with a different lender. Finally, he advises giving qualified first-time homebuyers access to 30-year amortization periods. The current 25-year amortization period means higher monthly payments and was thought of as potentially changing in the 2019 federal budget. We feel some of the policies introduced were too effective and cooled borrowing activity well beyond a normal correction, Wolfe said. Vancouver and Toronto were arguably overheated and needed some calming. I can confirm Alberta did not. MPC says the mortgage stress test is decreasing competition, raising costs, and lowering accessibility for potential homebuyers. Doing What Feds Want The Bank of Canada supports the stress test, saying it has slowed borrowing and improved the quality of new mortgage lending by precluding highly leveraged borrowers from tacking on more debt. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. says there has not been significant migration of business from federally regulated banks to less strictly regulated credit unions that are not obligated to enforce the stress test. In its April monetary policy report, the Bank of Canada suggested that the effect of the stress test would fade over time and that by 2020 the policy would no longer be dampening household spending growth. It also added that Vancouvers stabilization could be delayed. The problem for the federal government has always been that Canada does not have one homogenous housing market; the country is made up of many housing markets that can be reacting differently at any given time. So what measure might work for Vancouver and Toronto could have a deleterious effect on Calgary. Taylor also says a better balance needs to be struck between federal regulation and provincial and municipal regulation. The problem for Vancouver and Toronto is the compounding effect of provincial and municipal regulations on top of federal ones. Vancouver has a 20 percent foreign buyer tax, a 2 percent speculation and vacancy tax, and a 1 percent empty homes tax. Prices have fallen by 8.5 percent in Greater Vancouver in the last year. No market in Canada has felt the pain of the stress test as much as Vancouver, but there are signs of nascent stabilization in home sales for Torontos housing markets and prices are slightly higher year-over-year, according to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). But Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver president Phil Moore has said its the stress test that is the biggest reason for the local markets decline. He has suggested using a graduated add-on to the contract mortgage rate based on the size of the downpayment, instead of the flat 2 percent. Helping First-Time Homebuyers Budget 2019 introduced a new measure to spur first-time homebuyers by having the government finance part of the homes equity, thus reducing the size of the insured mortgage. MPC is skeptical of the success of the program due to its restrictions. It doesnt believe the Liberal governments idea of financing a share of equity in the home will see much take-up. The feds envision 100,000 first-time homebuyers benefiting over the next 3 years, but Taylor recalls a similar program in British Columbia that saw only 3,000 loans issued when 42,000 were expected. Taylor says the new program reduces housing options available by limiting the maximum loan value to four times a borrowers income, whereas a couple earning $100,000 could qualify for around $470,000 in mortgage loans. I just dont think those programs receive the level of success anticipated, he said, explaining that the qualification criteria is much more restrictive. Thus MPC believes that unless something is done to the stress test, regulations will keep preventing many Canadians from achieving their dream of home ownership. Follow Rahul on Twitter @RV_ETBiz Infant Girl Found Dead in California Is Daughter of Missing Depressed Man: Officials A California coroner has identified the infant child who was found dead in Bellflower. The baby, 8-month old Alexia Rose Echeverria, was identified as the daughter of a missing Northern California man, reported KTLA. She was found behind funeral home Funeraria del Angel on the morning of May 27, said the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department. UPDATE: Investigators believe the infant girl whose body was found in Bellflower actually died in Sacramento. Her father, Alexander Echeverria, remains missing. He was last seen in Bellflower on Friday. https://t.co/qEShCrLTIu CBS Los Angeles (@CBSLA) May 28, 2019 The child was reported missing along with her father, Alexander Echeverria, 30, and were last seen in Bellflower last week, officials said. Echeverria was described as depressed, and his family was concerned for his wellbeing. The baby was discovered after a worker saw a baby upright in a car seat and covered by a blanket, KLTA reported. The infant was pronounced dead at the scene. Homicide detectives are looking into whether a babys body found in Bellflower Monday may be related to a report of Northern California man who went missing with his 8-month-old daughter and were last seen in Bellflower on Friday. https://t.co/BKJOQNzt7h KTLA (@KTLA) May 28, 2019 Officials have not determined the cause of death, and Detective Steve Blagg said that officials saw no signs of trauma, CBS Los Angeles reported. Were talking to potential family members, but again, ongoing investigation, dont want to divulge, who or how we came in contact with them, Bragg told the outlet. Echeverria has not yet been located. His family said they are concerned for his well-being. #LASD Seeking the Publics Help in Locating At Risk #Missing Person Alexander Echeverria, 30y/o, 56, 160lbs, From Northern California, Last seen May 24, 2019. Call w/ ANONYMOUS TIPS 800-222-8477 @LACrimeStopper1 or Detectives at 323-890-5500 pic.twitter.com/ArJZ74IwX5 LA County Sheriffs (@LASDHQ) May 28, 2019 Hes described as 5-foot-6, 160 pounds with brown hair, and brown eyes. Officials said he may be driving a gray colored 2014 Volkswagen Jetta with California license plate 7FFT866. Facts About Crime in the US 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 the BJSs NCVS, 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. 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, 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. Security Guard & HTV Trala Driver Jobs 2019 in Qatar Latest Union Manpower Services Posts Qatar 2021 A well known and reputed oversea company requires the services of experienced and responsible personnel for the posts of Security Guard & HTV Trala Driver in Qatar. How to Apply on Union Manpower Services Job Advertisement Apply as per details in job advertisement. In some cases, you may apply online at vacancies after registering at https://www.jobz.pk online. Note: Beware of Fraudulent Recruiting Activities. If an employer asks to pay money for any purpose, do not pay at all and report us at contact us form. Apply as per instuctions & dates mentioned in official job ad. Govt jobs may not be applied online here. Human typing error is possible. Error & omissions excepted. Judge: Anheuser-Busch Must Pull Some Ads About MillerCoors MILWAUKEEA Wisconsin judge has ordered Anheuser-Busch to stop suggesting in advertising that MillerCoors light beers contain corn syrup, wading into a fight between two beer giants that are losing market share to small independent brewers. U.S. District Judge William Conley for the Western District of Wisconsin on May 24 granted a preliminary injunction sought by MillerCoors that temporarily stops Anheuser-Busch from using the words corn syrup in ads without giving more context. MillerCoors sued its rival in March, saying St. Louis-based Anheuser-Busch has spent as much as $30 million on a false and misleading campaign, including $13 million in its first commercials during this years Super Bowl. However, the ruling did not affect all of Anheuser-Buschs advertising targeting MillerCoors, allowing the commercials that premiered at the Super Bowl to keep airing. Anheuser-Buschs ad drew a rebuke from the National Corn Growers Association, which thanked MillerCoors for its support. In its lawsuit, MillerCoors said its not ashamed of its use of corn syrup as a fermentation aid. Corn syrup is used by several brewers during fermentation. During that process, corn syrup is broken down and consumed by yeast so that none of it remains in the final product. Bud Light is brewed with rice instead of corn syrup, but Anheuser-Busch uses corn syrup in some of its other beverages, including Stella Artois Cidre and Busch Light beer. MillerCoors applauded the ruling and said Anheuser-Busch should be trying to grow the beer market, not destroy it through deceptive advertising. We are pleased with todays ruling that will force Anheuser-Busch to change or remove advertisements that were clearly designed to mislead the American public, said MillerCoors CEO Gavin Hattersley. Anheuser Busch, however, called the ruling a victory for consumers because it allows the brands Special Delivery Super Bowl ad to continue airing. That ad showed a medieval caravan pushing a huge barrel of corn syrup to castles for MillerCoors to make Miller Lite and Coors Light. The commercial states that Bud Light isnt brewed with corn syrup. As the number one selling beer in the U.S., Bud Light remains committed to leading the alcohol industry by providing more transparency for consumers including letting them know about the ingredients that are used to brew their beer, said Cesar Vargas, Anheuser-Busch vice president of legal and corporate affairs. Judge Conley ordered Anheuser Busch to temporarily stop using advertisements that mention corn syrup without references to brewed with, made with or uses, or that describe corn syrup as an ingredient in the finished products. The ruling affects two Bud Light commercials and billboards that describe Bud Light as containing 100 percent less corn syrup than Miller Lite and Coors Light. Anheuser Busch said those ads are no longer up and the company had no plans to continue using them. Judge Conley also denied an Anheuser Busch motion to dismiss the case, saying it was likely to succeed in proving misleading statements and some harm to the reputation of MillerCoors. Chicago-based MillerCoors and Anheuser-Busch have the biggest U.S. market share at 24.8 percent and 41.6 percent, respectively, but theyve been losing business in recent years to smaller independent brewers, imports, and wine and spirits, according to the Brewers Association. MillerCoors maintains Anheuser-Busch is preying on health-conscious consumers who have negative connotations of corn syrup, sometimes confusing it with the high-fructose corn syrup in sodas. The feud threatens to disrupt an alliance between the two companies to work on a campaign to promote the beer industry amid declining sales. Judge Tosses Evidence, Acquits Saskatchewan Lovers of Plotting to Kill Spouses PRINCE ALBERT, AB.A Saskatchewan judge has acquitted a man and a woman of conspiracy to murder their spouses after ruling a key audio recording is inadmissible as evidence. Nicholsons attorney Ron Piche says police never had a search warrant for iPod. A key factor in admissibility decision today pic.twitter.com/lk4s3Hpt4q Guy Quenneville (@gqinsk) May 27, 2019 The judge entered the verdict Monday on what was supposed to be the start of trial for Curtis Vey and Angela Nicholson. A jury initially convicted them in 2016 and they were each sentenced to three years in prison. The Saskatchewan Court of Appeal, in ordering a new trial last year, said the judge didnt make it clear jurors must be satisfied beyond a reasonable doubt that the two intended to commit murder. Court heard that Vey, who is from Wakaw, SK., and Nicholson, who is from nearby Melfort, were having an affair. They were arrested in 2013 after Veys wife made a secret recording that appeared to suggest the pair was plotting to kill her and Nicholsons husband. The jury heard that Veys wife was to die in a house fire and Nicholsons husband was to be drugged and disappear. Vey and Nicholson argued there was no intent behind their words. Vey told police that he knew his wife was recording him and talked about the murder plot to give his wife and family something to talk about. Nicholson told officers she never intended to carry out the plan. Her lawyer, Ron Piche, told reporters outside the courthouse in Prince Albert, SK. that the public needs to know his client didnt get off on a technicality. She had no genuine intention of killing anyone, he said. Piche talks about what the trials have been like for Nicholson. #sask #saskatchewan pic.twitter.com/WKMUTE4U0D Guy Quenneville (@gqinsk) May 27, 2019 He argued the secret recording on an iPod violated the pairs charter rights because they didnt know they were being taped. Police also had warrants to search for computers but not the iPod, Piche added. That omission proved fatal in terms of the Crowns ability to rely on it, Piche said. Crown prosecutor Lori OConnor said her office will examine the case and determine whether to appeal. Veys wife, Brigitte Vey, said outside the court that she is OK with the acquittal. Im at peace that its finally over. Le Pen beats Macron in France as nationalists gain in EU vote BRUSSELSMarine Le Pen edged just ahead of President Emmanuel Macron in exit polls as French voters led what pollsters expected to be a nationalist surge in an EU parliament election on May 26. The defeat was narrowjust one seatbut a bitter one for those who hope the French leader can inspire Europeans to embrace the Union as an answer rather than part of the problem in the face of what for many is nerve-wracking social change. However, a first official projection of all 751 seats by the European Parliament indicated that losses for the pro-EU center may have been no worse than expected, with the Greens and liberals also gaining at the expense of the center-right and center-left. Brussels officials and pro-EU party leaders also took heart from a substantial increase in turnoutthe first in the 40-year history of direct elections to the Parliament. It was about 50%, up from 43% in 2014hardly massive, but an end to the declines that have fueled talk of a democratic deficit that undermines the legitimacy of EU lawmaking. Dropping about 40 seats each, the conservative European Peoples Party and Socialists & Democrats lost the majority they formed in a grand coalition with the EPP on top, according to the projection. Gains for the liberal ALDE and its allies under Macron put them in the frame for a bigger say. The Greens, in fourth place, could be kingmakers as the Socialists eye their chances of taking a lead, despite again trailing the EPP by 20-30 seats. The elections have consisted of four days of ballots across the 28-nation bloc. The right-wing League of Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini stands a chance of pipping Chancellor Angela Merkels German conservatives as the party with the largest number of seats in the chamber. Another contender will be the new Brexit Party of veteran British anti-EU campaigner Nigel Farage, set to top the vote in the country that was supposed to have left the bloc two months ago. He is determined to make the departure happen and that his MEPs will not sit for longthough drama after the resignation of Prime Minister Theresa May leaves the fate of Brexit still very uncertain. Green Wave In France, an official in Macrons team acknowledged some disappointment that, with some 22%, the presidents Renaissance movement had lost first place to Le Pens National Rally, which exit polls put on 24%. However, pro-EU parties were still in the majority, with the French Greens coming third. Added to the dazzling second place of their German counterparts, that lent credibility to expectations of a green wave that will influence policy in Brussels in the coming years. The Parliaments forecast put the EPP on 173 seats, ahead of the S&D on 147, with the liberals on 102, up 33 seats, and Greens on 71, up 19. On the right, two groups in the current parliament had a combined 113 seats, a 50% gain from 2014. Other parties may also add to the anti-EU firepowersuch as the ruling parties in Poland and Hungary, and a new right-wing movement in Spain. However, divisions among nationalist groups have limited their effectiveness in blocking EU policymaking. In Germany, the biggest member state and one of 21 countries that voted on May 26, an exit poll for public broadcaster ARD showed the Greens on 22%, Merkels Christian Democrats (CDU) and their conservative allies on 28%, down eight points from 2014, and the Social Democrats slumping nearly 12 points to 15.5%. On a night when German political attention was focused on the CDUs narrow defeat of Merkels national coalition partner the SPD in the small city-state of Bremen, a left-wing bastion, the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) raised its share of the EU vote by 3.4 percentage points to 10.5%. As the European Parliament in Brussels prepared for the EU-wide count, Brussels police detained dozens of yellow vest protesters, part of a movement that began in France to voice discontent with the political establishment. And outside the Belgian capital, a new right-wing surge was evident in a national election that also took place on May 26. The right-wing Vlaams Belang surpassed expectations in the richer half of the country, running second in wealthy Flanders. The European Parliament election will usher in weeks and possibly months of hard bargaining over who will run EU institutions. Party spokespeople for the four pro-EU center parties were quick to talks of plans for a broad coalition. The Parliament as an institution has insisted that one of its own winning members should succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as president of the executive European Commission. But many national leaders, who will meet over dinner in Brussels on May 28, have said they will not be bound by that demand. By Robin Emmott & Foo Yun Chee A Sumatran rhinoceros in Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden in Ohio on Aug. 19, 2004. (Mike Simons/Getty Images) Malaysia Mourns After Last Male Sumatran Rhino Dies Malaysias last male Sumatran rhinoceros has died, leaving behind one female in captivity, with authorities trying for years to save the critically endangered species in the country. The rhinoceros, named Tam, passed away due to health complications which worsened in his final few days, confirmed the Borneo Rhino Alliance (BORA) in a Facebook post on May 27. Malaysias last male Sumatran rhino, Tam, has died. Tams appetite & alertness declined abruptly last month & the cause of death is believed to be multiple organ failure. Msia is now left with only one female Sumatran rhino who also had health complications recently. pic.twitter.com/uNjW0OZnuQ BFM News (@NewsBFM) May 27, 2019 It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news that Tam, Malaysias last male Sumatran rhino, has passed away, BORA said. Before his death, Tam, who was about 30 years old, had been suffering from organ failure, BORA said. Since his capture in 2008, the Sumatran rhino had been living at Tabin Wildlife Reserve in the state of Sabah on Borneo island, said Christina Liew, minister for tourism, culture, and environment. Sumatran rhino is one of the most endangered species with two rhinos in captivity.The two last rhinos are managed in a facility in Tabin Wildlife Reserve by an organisation called Borneo Rhino Alliance, an NGO based in Sabah.Head over to https://t.co/N9XLtsVDSc for more info! pic.twitter.com/jJaehMMkG6 Sticky Rice Travel (@StickyRiceSabah) January 29, 2019 Regrettably, Tam died at midday, around noon on Monday, May 27. Invariably, everything that could possibly have been done, was done, and executed with great love and dedication. His last weeks involved the most intense palliative care humanly possible, rendered by the Borneo Rhino Alliance (BORA) team under veterinarian Dr. Zainal Zahari Zainuddin, at the Borneo Rhino Sanctuary in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Lahad Datu, Liew said in a statement. Last month, urine analysis tests showed Tam had poor kidney function and was suffering organ damage, reported the New Straits Times. Malaysia had been trying to breed Tam through in-vitro fertilization (IVF) with two female rhinos since 2011. Attempts to breed Tam with Puntung, who was captured in 2011 but died in captivity, and Iman, who was captured in 2014 and is the last Sumatran rhinoceros remaining in the country, were not successful. Sumatran rhinos stand at around 4 feet 3 inches high, making them the smallest rhinoceroses in the world. Decades of poaching and habitat loss has led wildlife experts to believe fewer than 80 of the subspecies are left in the world, according to Save the Rhino. Most Sumatran rhinos are believed to live on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, with the rest in Kalimantan in Indonesian Borneo. Liew said Tams living genome has been preserved in the hopes it could be used to help reproduce Sumatran rhinos in the future. We hope that with emerging technologies at cell and molecular level, he may yet contribute his genes to the survival of the species, she said. Wildlife experts believe the greatest threat to the continued existence of the species is isolation, as females are prone to developing fibroids and cysts in their reproductive tracts if they go too long without mating, reported National Geographic. Iman, Malaysias last surviving female Sumatran rhinoceros in captivity, is infertile for this reason as she suffers from a ruptured tumor in her uterus. Towards the end of Tams life in late April, he reportedly displayed a sudden loss of appetite and decline in alertness, and spent the majority of his time lying down, receiving care and medical attention around-the-clock. #Malaysias last surviving male #rhino, Tam, died this afternoon after under undergoing round-the-clock treatment since May 19. Iman, a female, is now the sole surviving Sumatran rhino in Malaysia. Find out more: https://t.co/TkMgiA7u5N pic.twitter.com/VpWv3hN9KL TheMalaysianInsight (@msianinsight) May 27, 2019 Sabah Wildlife Department director Augustine Tuuga told The Straits Times Tams health may have declined so rapidly due to old age, as the animals have a life expectancy of 35 to 40 years. In a tribute to the male rhinoceros, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) said on Facebook: With Tam gone, we now only have Iman left, our last female rhino. If we are not careful, the Sumatran rhino will not be the only species that will go extinct under our watch. A security camera image of suspects on a motorcycle (L) and a security camera image of the passenger (R) wanted in a hit and run collision on May 26, 2019. (Toronto Police Service) Man Charged in Motorcycle Hit And Run That Left 4-Year-Old in Hospital Toronto Police have arrested and charged a 31-year-old man in connection with a hit and run that put a 4-year-old child in the hospital in critical condition. Early on the afternoon of Sunday, May 26, a man riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle with a female passenger struck the child after he ran out into Victoria Park Ave., which borders Toronto and Scarborough. The rider and passenger fled the scene, according to a Toronto Police news release. Police say the motorcycle pulled over after hitting the boy, the passenger got off, then the bike continued on. Weve got information that the female got off the bike and walked away on foot. The motorcyclist continued northbound on Victoria Park and out of the area, Toronto Police Traffic Services Sergeant Brett Moore said in a Twitter video Monday morning. Motorcycle driver and passenger to ID in Fail To Remain collision. Four year old boy critical injuries. Info call Toronto Police 416-808-1900. Anonymous Crime Stoppers tips 1-800-222-8477. News release: https://t.co/SOgJYsj6BZ ^sm pic.twitter.com/4gKYxsVgdg Toronto Police (@TorontoPolice) May 27, 2019 The man was arrested on Monday about 24 hours after the accident, but according to the news release police did not release his name in order to protect the integrity of the investigation. The initial release describes the man as white, with a black half helmet and black pants. A 2016 Harley Davidson Road Glide Motorcycle was also seized. The man has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident that caused bodily harm, driving a motor vehicle with an improper licence, and operating a motor vehicle without insurance. In a video Monday afternoon, Moore said investigators have identified the female passenger whom they believe to be involved as well. He also said that in the 24 hours between the accident and arrest, investigators received 32 tips through Crime Stoppers as well as dozens of calls from community members asking questions and providing help where they could. Police canvased, collected, and looked at videos that people in the community provided. Arrest made in hit and run involving 4 yr old boy. 32 tips and many calls about video. #CommunityPolicing works ^bm https://t.co/zxnjNDIoa5 TPS Traffic Services (@TrafficServices) May 27, 2019 Police first reported that the child had been killed, but later tweeted that he was at SickKids hospital, where medical professionals said he was in critical condition. Update: -Contrary to earlier reports, the 4 year old victim of the collision is alive. Medical professionals have deemed him to be critically unwell the family has asked for everyones prayers for their sonhttps://t.co/zKCsAt5ati @Trafficservices #GO962038 ^adc Toronto Police OPS (@TPSOperations) May 27, 2019 In their news release, Toronto Police Traffic Services would like to thank the community, the public and media for their assistance that helped identify a suspect and vehicle alleged to be involved in a fail to remain investigation. They also say they have received tips and security videos, but are asking the public for more security or dash camera videos that they may have. Man Looking for Owner of Necklace Filled With Ashes Found on Florida Beach A Florida man has asked for the publics help to find the owner of a necklace filled with ashes that he found on the beach on Memorial day. I was neck deep in the water at Siesta Key last night and found someones mothers ashes on a necklace. Share this and help me find the owner!! Shawn Rauch wrote on Facebook on May 27, accompanied by a photo of the silver necklace with a ball charm that has the word Mom etched on to it. Rauch told Fox 35 that he stumbled upon the necklace while he was enjoying his metal detecting hobby. After Rauch made his post, many social media users quickly linked the necklace to one that had been missing since January. A South Philadelphia woman posted to Facebook on Jan. 2 that her bag was stolen while she attended a parade to celebrate the New Year. Inside the bag was her necklace with her mothers ashes. Brianna McCollum, 21, told Fox 29 at the time that she had taken her necklace off her neck and placed it in her purple JanSport backpack. She then placed her backpack on the ground and she said at some point her bag was stolen. I had it on all day so I sat it down not thinking anything because all my friends were standing there, McCollum said. It me took a few minutes like I didnt have it on my neck and Im like, Oh my God my necklace is in there. So I started freaking out, she said. She said her grandmother had given her the necklace to put her mothers ashes in, who had passed away two years ago. Ive worn it every day since Ive gotten it. The one day I take it off to be safe this happens, she said. Thats all I had. Pretty much all I had. The closest thing I have left to my mom. In her Facebook post she wrote: My bag was stolen down 2st last night in south philly all I want is my necklace with my moms ashes I know this is a long shot but if somebody comes across it please just give me my necklace back it was in a purple jansport school bag on 3rd st in between wolf and Jackson. The post was accompanied by a photo of the necklace she lost, which has a similar shape and design to the one found by Rauch. Many social media users have alerted McCollum about Rauchs post, hoping that the necklace found was the one lost five months ago. In another lost and found story, a man managed to find the owner of a lost camera filled with their wedding photos, which was lost on Laguna Beach, California. Nick Reed said his sister had found the camera and he helped her track down the owners by posting photos of the camera and the wedding photo on his social media account. The owners, newly-wed couple Heather and Kole Powell, were ecstatic when they received a call from their photographer that the camera, which had been lost for two months, had been found. Reed had tagged the professional photographer, who took the photos, on his post. I just was so shocked, Heather said. I ran over to my husband and said, Oh my gosh, someone found our camera. The couple contacted Reed and he sent the camera and memory card back to the Powells. He had managed to salvage all 500 photos on the camera, including about 200 from the couples wedding and other photos before and after the event. We tried to convince him to let us pay the shipping and he wouldnt, Heather said. We told [Nick and Maria] that if we make it out to California again were going to buy them dinner and meet them to thank them. Both my husband and I are just blown away by their kindness. There arent enough words. Sunny Chao contributed to this report. Mississippi Police Officer Accused of Rape of 15-Year-Old Commits Suicide A Mississippi police officer accused of raping a 15-year-old in the back of his patrol car has committed suicide, WLBT reported. Speaking to the news outlet, Jackson mayor Chokwe Lumumba identified the officer as 29-year-old James Hollins. Lumumba said Hollins killed himself with a colleagues service revolver in his personal vehicle on the I-220 on Monday, May 27. Hollins was put on administrative leave on Sunday after news broke of the alleged assaults. The mother of the alleged victim reported Hollins to Jackson Police Department Chief James Davis on Saturday, the Clarion Ledger reported. Speaking on behalf of the mother, attorney Lisa Ross told WLBT that Hollins allegedly sexually assaulted the womans 15-year-old daughter repeatedly over the course of about six months. Ross said the assaults took place several times a week, adding that there was evidence in the form of sexually explicit videos of the officer and the girl in the back of a police cruiser. The officer was found in a Dodge Charger on the side of the highway. https://t.co/yfRL30OU4N USA TODAY (@USATODAY) May 28, 2019 Sergeant Roderick Holmes with the Jackson Police Department addressed the sexual assault allegations at a press conference Monday, the Clarion Ledger reported. All matters involving assault we take very seriously. We want the family to understand that if at any point in time, theres evidence of wrongdoing going on, we will not hesitate to take action, Holmes said, according to the report. Speaking through her attorney, the victims mother called for an investigation into the incident. Police Release Video of Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting of Minneapolis Woman The Minneapolis Police Department has released footage of a 2017 incident in which a police officer shot an unarmed woman. Released on Thursday, May 23, the video shows the tense moments after U.S.-Australian citizen Justine Damond was fatally shot outside her home after she made a 911 call to report a possible rape. Former Minneapolis police officer Mohamed Noorlater found guilty of third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in connection with Damonds deathis seen in the footage visibly distressed and pacing nervously. Noor, who is the first police officer in Minnesota to be convicted in an on-duty fatal shooting, is seen in the video burying his face in one hand while another officer can be heard telling him keep your mouth shut. One of the clips shows Noor pacing while his partner Matthew Harrity performs CPR on the victim. Noors partner can be heard shouting to the woman, Stay with me. *Warning: contains sensitive footage and profane language. Another clip shows Noor covered in sweat and burying his face in one hand. The officer asks Noor if hes alright then tells him to keep to yourself, keep your mouth shut until you have to say anything to anybody. The footage also features Sgt. Shannon Barnette, Noors supervisor, who arrived on the scene and ordered it secured. Barnettes body camera footage shows her asking Noors partner what happened. Harrity responds, She just came up out of nowhere. On the side of the thing. We both got spooked. I had my gun out. I didnt fire. Then Noor pulled out and fired. A jury found Noor guilty on April 30 on the basis of evidence that includes the newly released footage. Noor remains in custody pending sentencing, which is scheduled for June 7. Missouris Last Abortion Clinic Could Close This Week: Reports Missouris last abortion clinic said that it expects to be shut down this week, effectively ending abortion in the state. Planned Parenthood said that Missouris health department is refusing to renew its annual license, KMOV reported on May 28. If the state doesnt renew the license by May 31, Missouri would be the first state in decades to not have a functioning abortion clinic. Planned Parenthood officials stated that they will file a lawsuit this week for a restraining order to prevent the clinic, located in St. Louis, from being forced to stop offering the procedure, NPR reported. It comes after Missouri Gov. Mike Parson signed a bill into law banning most abortions in the state earlier this month. The legislation stated, It is the intent of the general assembly of the state of Missouri to defend the right to life of all humans, born and unborn, and declares that Missouri [is] a sanctuary of life that protects pregnant women and their unborn children. If a heartbeat is detected for the unborn child, the bill would make it illegal to get an abortion unless the mothers life is in danger. If a heartbeat is not detected, abortions are legal if completed within 96 hours of the detection test. If a total ban is not possible, abortions shall be limited to women who are less than eight weeks gestational age, with a required fetal heartbeat or brain function test, the bills language said. The bill, meanwhile, prohibits selective abortions due to sex, race, or a diagnosis or potential diagnosis of Down Syndrome. Parson defended the bill as he spoke to a group of pro-life supporters gathered Friday for the bill signing in his Capitol office. Is it a terrible thing that happens in those situations? Yes it is. But the reality of it is bad things do happen sometimes. But you have two months to decide what youre going to do with that issue, and I believe in two months you can make a decision, he said, according to The Associated Press. This gives more rights to the rapists than it does the mother, Rep. Doug Beck, a Democrat, told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Perpetrators of incest would have more rights. But Republican proponents of the measure said it was a necessary law that will protect unborn children. Every single right we have is only possible for each one of us if we have the right to life, said Republican Rep. Sara Walsh. Epoch Times reporter Zachary Stieber and The Associated Press contributed this report. Mother on Night Shift Nearly Fired for Bringing Daughter to Work for Safety Concerns A driver was nearly fired for taking her daughter to work and letting her sleep on the bus during a night shift. But after strong reaction from social media users, the woman was allowed to keep her job and the bus company offered to change her work hours, according to the Chinese online news outlet Pear Videos. The woman, named Liu Xiaoqin, drives a bus in Changsha City, Henan Province, China. Liu had to bring her daughter with her on the night shift on May 21 since no one was at home. An unidentified passenger took pictures of Lius daughter sleeping on the bus. When these photos were first shared online, another post claimed that Lius employer, W222, said that she may be fired from her position on May 23. The post was followed by many angry comments. W222 decided not to fire Liu. Instead, she was suspended for two days for violating safety rules. A Bed on a Bus The first images were taken by a unidentified passenger and shared on Weibo, Chinas version of Twitter, showing the girl laying on the front seats, along with her backpack and a school book. The post showed sympathy toward both the mom and daughter about how difficult life can be sometimes, and that they were both hard working. Liu explained that taking her daughter to work was a rare occurrence, and that her mother usually took care of the girl. Her grandma had something to do at that time, and told me to bring my daughter [to work], Liu told Pear Videos. It was a long time, and then by eight oclock, she laid down and went to sleep. That was a rare day, but in the future her grandma will look after her. Two days later, a post said that Lius company, W222, was going to fire her. Many Weibo users reacted strongly to the post. User Incomparable Downfall wrote: This company is too heartless! If theres someone who has a kid, theyd definitely be willing to take them to work! User Big Big Big Golden Goose wrote: This company isnt going to hire women in the future . After the outcry, an employee made a statement on behalf of the company. At the time our company didnt know her situation, an unnamed employee said in a public interview to Pear Videos. It wasnt our companys response. The employee emphasized that the company puts safety first. Liu was put on detention for two days. We gave her a warning for two days, the bus chief for W222, surnamed Li, told Pear Videos. We are not dismissing [her]. Well do what we can to help her out, so our company is trying to be more accommodating. The company said that if I want to spend more time with my child, [they can] change my schedule so [I] can take care of my child and also go to work, Liu later said. Liu is still working for the company, but no information was given if her schedule had changed. In this photo made on May 22, 2019, a long queue of mountain climbers line a path on Mount Everest. About half a dozen climbers died on Everest last week most while descending from the congested summit during only a few windows of good weather each May. (Nirmal Purja/@Nimsdai Project Possible/The Canadian Press) N.L. Climber Says Crowding on Mount Everest Is Just One Factor in Death Count A climber from Newfoundland and Labrador who made it to the top of Mount Everest during a season marked by multiple deaths says he feels that crowding at the final ascent is just one among several safety problems. Mark Ballard said Monday that when he came to the last portion of the climb there was a chaotic scene of lineups as a number of expedition companies attempted to reach the summit under last weeks bright and clear skies in the Himalayas. Ballard says his Sherpa guide was instrumental in navigating his way through the crowds, especially on the final Hillary Step, swiftly taking him around slower groups and reducing his waiting time in the frigid, thin air. Still, he said there was a 1.5-hour wait on the way down from the summit due to the queues of climbers lining the route on May 22. Ballard says he believes there needs to be work on qualification of climbers attempting the summit, as he noticed some continued to climb despite difficulties adjusting to the altitude. He also says some climbers lacked knowledge, such as the protocols when two climbers meet as one is ascending and the other descending on the same rope. It was chaos coming down for sure, the Canadian climber said in an emailed comment. That (the descent) was all about staying warm, my right foot was freezing. A photo he provided shows a line of dozens of climbers making their way up and down on May 22. This remarkable picture shows the deadly overcrowding on Mount Everest | #TheCube https://t.co/nAlLYyjqSj Mount Everest (@MountEverest) May 26, 2019 I think that part of what happened came down to the smaller weather window this year, which required many companies to push into a small amount of days, Ballard said. Trevor Day, an associate professor of physiology at Mount Royal University in Calgary, says high altitudes can cause all climbers to lose strength and can lead to sicknessbut inexperienced climbers may not have a strong sense of their own limits. If you have experience getting sick and being up there, you have a sense of what you can do and what you cannot do, he said. The Associated Press has reported a number of May deaths on the worlds highest peak, which is about 8,850 metres high and commonly requires about two months of trekking to summit. Indian climber Ravi Thakar, 28, died during the third week of May while sleeping in his tent at Mount Everests highest camp site. An Irish climber, Seamus Lawless, was missing after falling while returning from Everests summit. CNN reported that Robin Haynes Fisher died at about 8,600 metres while descending from the summit on May 25, noting he had commented on the overcrowding in his final social media post. The body of Indian climber Ravi Kumar was spotted on May 20, but it was impossible to retrieve the body, after the climber fell some 200 metres. Climbers from the United States, Slovakia, and Australia also died on the mountain over the May 18-19 weekend. Everest claims multiple victims each year, often in the death zone above 8,000 metres, where the air is too thin to sustain human life. For example, in 2017, 648 people summited Everest, according to the non-profit Himalayan Database. Six people were confirmed to have died on the mountain that year, one of them on the north side. Eric Simonson, a partner in International Mountain Guides, said in a telephone interview that his company takes safety measures that include multiple Sherpas carrying additional oxygen tanks when theres a lineup on the final ascent. Its just the way the cards got dealt this year . Unfortunately the weather didnt come good until the very end (of May) and everybody had to go, he said in a telephone interview from the firms headquarters in Ashford, Wash. He said on May 22 his company had eight climbers and 11 Sherpas going up to the summit. We went up with abundant extra oxygen and manpower . It wasnt optimal, but Id rather have people standing in line on a nice day than battling a whiteout. Simonson said ensuring safetywhether it be additional Sherpa guides or training of the mountaineerscosts money. The teams that spend the money can create greater safety margins for their customers, and the teams that are bare-boned, they dont have those resources, he said. The Associated Press reported that the Nepalese Tourism Department issued a record 371 permits this year to people to scale the mountain. The increased number of climbers this year is likely because many people were unable to climb in 2014 and 2015, when deadly avalanches disrupted the climbing seasons. This aerial photo shows tornado damage at the Westbrooke Village Apartment complex in Trotwood, Ohio, on May 28, 2019. (Doral Chenoweth III/The Columbus Dispatch via AP) NOAA: 52 Tornadoes Touched Down in Central US on Memorial Day The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration stated that about 52 tornadoes may have touched down overnight after Memorial Day in the central United States. According to a report from the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, 14 tornadoes touched down in Indiana, 10 touched down in Colorado, and nine were reported in Ohio. In Iowa, six were reported, five were reported in Nebraska, four were reported in Illinois, and three may have touched down in Minnesota, The Associated Press reported. At least one person was killed in Celina, Ohio due to a tornado, AccuWeather reported. A large, dangerous tornado touched down last night in northwest Montgomery County. We are focused on supporting life-saving measures, such as shutting down gas lines or locating people who are trapped by debris, Montgomery County wrote on its Twitter page. Call 911 or contact your local fire station for emergency assistance. ABC News reported that the tornado destroyed entire apartment complexes and knocked out power and water to thousands in the area. I dont know that any community is fully prepared for this type of devastation, Dayton assistant fire chief Nicholas Hosford told ABC News. We have homes flattened, entire apartment complexes destroyed, businesses throughout our community where walls have collapsed, Hosford added. It was the scariest 15 seconds of my life, Blake Gifford, of Dayton, was quoted as saying. I was praying, asking God to keep us safe, he added. Were lucky, were lucky to be here. In Pendleton, Indiana, about 75 homes were damaged by a storm, the report said. Montgomery County, following the tornadoes, was forced to issue a state of emergency, noting widespread damage and having resources overwhelmed resources, WHIO reported. Sunrise shows just how bad the damage is here in Dayton. An entire strip mall in Northridge is gone. @Local12 @ABC22FOX45 pic.twitter.com/m5JI52QNjz WalterSmith-Randolph (@WalterReports) May 28, 2019 Its a mess out here, Montgomery County Commission President Debbie Lieberman said. Its going to take us a while to get our arms around the total devastation. In the meantime, we want to make sure that everybodys OK and accounted for. Residents were told to stay off roads near Dayton, AccuWeather reported, noting that a tornado passed over Interstate 75. The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) called on people to stay away from the area north of downtown Dayton. Our crews are assisting with debris cleanup from a tornado that hit about an hour ago, ODOT said on Twitter. Please give them and emergency crews room to work. Obama Administrations Snooping on Journalists Phone Records Broader Than Previously Known The Justice Departments seizing of journalists phone records during the administration of President Barack Obama was more extensive than previously reported, recently released documents show. In 2013, The Associated Press raised the alarm after the Justice Department (DOJ) informed the news service that it had subpoenaed and obtained the recordsnot including content of the callsof 21 mobile phones and land lines, including home numbers assigned to AP journalists, and their offices. But the DOJ had, in fact, issued 30 subpoenas for records of 30 phone lines it believed to be those of The Associated Press reporters and editors, according to a 2014 report by the DOJs Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR). The report, albeit heavily redacted, was obtained through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request by the Knight First Amendment Institute (KFAI) at Columbia University and the Freedom of the Press Foundation (FPF). The subpoenas covered a period between April 1, 2012, and May 10, 2012, as part of an investigation into who leaked classified documents that the AP used to produce several articles about the CIA foiling a Yemen-based plot to put a bomb on an airliner. The White House had said there was no credible threat to the American people in May of 2012. The AP story suggested otherwise, and we felt that was important information and the public deserved to know it, AP President and Chief Executive Gary Pruitt said in a May 14, 2013, statement. The OPR report says that then-Deputy Attorney General James Cole only approved the subpoenas on Feb. 6, 2013, after investigators interviewed more than 550 witnesses and reviewed thousands of government documents, but still failed to produce investigative leads concerning the source of the leak. The AP alleged that the DOJ overreached, including by seizing records for general numbers for some of APs offices, including those in New York City and Washington. These records potentially reveal communications with confidential sources across all of the newsgathering activities undertaken by the AP [during the targeted period], Pruitt said in a letter to then-Attorney General Eric Holder, also saying that the records could provide a road map to APs newsgathering operations, and disclose information about APs activities and operations that the government has no conceivable right to know. Media Guidelines The DOJs media guidelines require that subpoenas against journalists are narrowly drawn, but the OPR report shows how low of a bar that could be, according to Ramya Krishnan, attorney at KFAI, and Trevor Timm, FPFs executive director. The OPR report indicates that the DOJ originally wanted to subpoena records of The New York Times, Washington Post, and ABC News reporters, as well, since those outlets followed up on the AP articles and they too apparently used classified information, including some that wasnt used in the AP articles. But because the DOJ held back on those, the OPR concluded that the AP subpoenas were already significantly and deliberately narrowed. The guidelines also required that journalists be contacted ahead of time if their records are to be seized, as long as such negotiations would not pose a substantial threat to the integrity of the investigation. In its conclusion, the OPR stated that the DOJ could reasonably conclude that it was unable to find that negotiations would not pose a substantial threat to the integrity of the leak investigation and, thus, the DOJ was free to forgo negotiation and decline to provide The Associated Press with advance notice of the subpoenas. The Justice Departments narrow interpretation of the Media Guidelines throws into sharp relief the weakness of some of the only legal protections journalists have, Krishnan and Timm said in a May 23 article in the Columbia Journalism Review. In response to the uproar over the subpoenas, Holder had the guidelines revised, but they still include much of the same flexibility, including the exception that journalists will only be notified in advance unless such notice would pose a clear and substantial threat to the integrity of the investigation, risk grave harm to national security, or present an imminent risk of death or serious bodily harm. The Associated Press and the DOJ didnt respond to requests for comment. Leak Crackdown Under Holder, the DOJ pursued at least nine leak-related prosecutions, more than all previous administrations combined, The New York Times reported. President Donald Trump also called for a leak crackdown after his administration faced a stream of classified information reaching the media. In one of the most striking examples, Trumps calls with his Australian and Mexican counterparts shortly after entering office were leaked to the media. On Dec. 20, 2018, former Senate staffer James Wolfe was sentenced to two months in prison for lying to FBI agents who were investigating the leak of a top-secret surveillance warrant application on a former associate of the Trump campaign, Carter Page. As part of that investigation, the DOJ obtained some of the email and phone records of a New York Times reporter, Ali Watkins. Watkins was in an intimate relationship with Wolfe since 2013, spanning her tenure at publications including McClatchy Newspapers, The Huffington Post, Politico, and Buzzfeed News, but ended it before she joined The New York Times, she told the publication. Wolfes indictment alleged he leaked classified information to at least four reporters. The New York Times has said Watkins was one of them, although she denies ever using Wolfe as a source. Reports Say UFOs Entering Various Military-Controlled Ranges, Navy Drafting Guidelines for Reporting The U.S. Navy has said that there has been an increase in UFO sightings and it is drafting new guidelines for pilots and other personnel to report encounters with them. The Navy said it is attempting to examine the phenomenon of the unidentified aircraft, and to not dismiss them merely as science fiction. There have been a number of reports of unauthorized and/or unidentified aircraft entering various military-controlled ranges and designated air space in recent years, the Navy said in a statement to Politico. The Pentagon has been tracking UFO sightings for many years, and since 2007 it has been studying various encounters with UFOs under a program called the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, reported The New York Times. Wow, what is that, man? Look at it fly! Navy pilots report unidentified flying objects off the East Coast of the U.S. https://t.co/b0D5T0rU2L The New York Times (@nytimes) May 27, 2019 Not much is known about this program but the report says the Navy continued its investigation even after the program ended in 2012 due to lack of funds. The Navy has formalized the reporting process to take these suspected sightings even more seriously. For safety and security concerns, the Navy and the [U.S. Air Force] takes these reports very seriously and investigates each and every report, the Navy told Politico. As part of this effort, the Navy is updating and formalizing the process by which reports of any such suspected incursions can be made to the cognizant authorities. A new message to the fleet that will detail the steps for reporting is in draft, it said. The Navy said that by formalizing the reporting process it is not approving the idea of alien spacecraft but it is admitting that its highly trained military staff have sighted inexpiable aerial objects and they need to be taken seriously. I dont care what Twitter UFO bigwigs say to the contrary on this. I think this news article and many others like it together with what TTSA are doing will become diverging topics with Space Force. U.S. Navy drafting new guidelines for reporting UFOs https://t.co/TneMGmTq8M Keith Mayoh (@Keithmayoh) April 24, 2019 Right now, we have a situation in which UFOs and UAPs are treated as anomalies to be ignored rather than anomalies to be explored, Chris Mellon, a former Pentagon intelligence official and ex-staffer on the Senate Intelligence Committee, told Politico. He said such information has been dumped in many cases. In a lot of cases [military personnel] dont know what to do with that informationlike satellite data or a radar that sees something going Mach 3. They will dump [the data] because that is not a traditional aircraft or missile, he said. Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program In December 2017, the Pentagon admitted that it funded a program to collect information on unexplained aerial phenomena, called the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, reported The New York Times. Sara Seager, an astrophysicist at M.I.T., said that an unidentified object doesnt mean its from a different planet or galaxy. When people claim to observe truly unusual phenomena, sometimes its worth investigating seriously, she told the Times, adding that what people sometimes dont get about science is that we often have phenomena that remain unexplained. The Pentagon has acknowledged a secret program to investigate UFOs. It began in 2007 as a pet project of Harry Reid. https://t.co/eRvbBamKgz pic.twitter.com/rhPyQDgtd7 The New York Times (@nytimes) December 17, 2017 Robert Bigelow, who runs Bigelow Aerospace and works with NASA, told CBS News in 2017: There has been and is an existing presence, an ET presence. And I spent millions and millions and millionsI probably spent more as an individual than anybody else in the United States has ever spent on this subject. In 1947, the U.S. Air Force began investigating claims of UFOs, the Times reported, adding that it was dubbed Project Blue Book. It ended in 1969 with about 700 sightings unexplained. The National UFO Reporting Center reports 52 sightings of unidentified objects so far in May 2019 and 1,240 since the beginning of the year. The center, the countrys foremost UFO reporting agency, is based in eastern Washington at a decommissioned U. S. Air Force ICBM missile base, according to its website. Jack Phillips contributed to this report. Daksha Devnani writes stories about life, traditions, and people with uncompromising courage that inspire hope and goodness among humanity Authorities are investigating the deaths of Johanco Fleischman, 19, and his girlfriend Jessica Kuhn, 23, in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Specialized Security Services/Facebook) South African Couple Shot Dead After Running Out of Gas on Motorway Family and friends are mourning the sudden loss of a young couple who died shortly after running out of gas on a South African motorway. South African police confirmed delivery driver Johanco Fleischman, 19, and his girlfriend Jessica Kuhn, 23, died after their Toyota Hilux ran out of diesel at the top of an off ramp at the N12 West national route near Benoni, 23 miles east of Johannesburg. After coming to a complete stop at about 11 a.m. local time, Fleischman phoned a butcher friend of the family to organize a can of fuel. However, three men approached the vehicle and killed the couple before the fuel could arrive. Gauteng Province Community Police Board (GPCPB) said two employees who were sitting in the back of the car and survived the shooting. They recalled the attackers calling Fleischman an uhmlungu, which roughly translates as English, before opening fire. The attackers had used the word uhmlungu, which is a phrase of sorts for white man to the driver before he started shooting but I dont think that necessarily makes this attack racist, GPCPB Chief Dr. MR Patel told the Daily Mail. The two workers who were in the back when the attack happened had returned but both been badly beaten and were severely traumatized. Robbers execute white couple in racist attack after their car ran out of fuel in South Africa https://t.co/fA4kI3ESzD Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) May 27, 2019 Police believe there may have been a struggle before Fleischman was fatally shot and robbed. I think these were opportunists who saw a car broken down and saw the opportunity to rob them and it seems the driver put up a fight and after that it just all went totally pear-shaped, Patel said. I can see markers for nine bullet casings near the car in photographs but there could well have been many more fired. Private emergency medical care provider ER24 said paramedics found Fleischman outside of the Toyota with multiple gunshot wounds, including to the head. Witnesses claim a total of at least nine bullets were fired towards Fleischman before he slumped to the road. The gunman then allegedly leaned into the car and shot Kuhn once in the head before stealing her mobile phone and setting the car on fire with a lighter. Both showed no signs of life and were declared dead at the scene. It was a terrible thing to happen, ER24 spokesperson Ross Campbell said. The two badly beaten workers fled for their lives and a passing motorist stopped and used a fire extinguisher to douse the flames. The two workers who were with the couple had fled but returned when we arrived and the South African Police Service are investigating from them exactly what happened, Campbell said. Police condemned what they described as a callous murder and expressed their condolences to the victims loved ones. It is deeply concerning that such a blatant and brazen act of violence against innocents can be conducted in broad daylight by thugs and criminal elements in our community, Patel said. We extend our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of this couple in this senseless criminal incident. Specialized Security Services private investigator Mike Bolhuis said family and friends of the victims had appointed his team to help police investigate the tragedy on May 26. We have been appointed by the friends and families of Johanco Fleischmann, 19, and Jessica Kuhn, 21, to investigate the brutal and unnecessary murder of this young couple, Bolhuis said on Facebook. We have assembled our top specialist investigative teams that will be working closely with the Organized Crime Unit to solve this senseless murder and bring the killers to justice. Bolhuis and his team extended their heartfelt condolences to those affected by the tragedy. We wish that God will guide you and keep you through this difficult time, he said. Bolhuis asked the public to respect the privacy of the victims families and let the investigation run its course. We would also like to ask that the media respect these families in this difficult time of mourning by directing all queries to my team and I, he said. Although we understand how extremely difficult this situation is, we would like to respectfully ask that friends, family, and everyone involved in this case give us the necessary space and time to complete our investigation and not take matters into their own hands. Gauteng Police Commissioner Elias Mawela has set up a special task force to track the three suspected killers. Supreme Court Upholds Indiana Law Against Discarding Aborted Childrens Body Parts as Infectious Waste The Supreme Court on May 28 upheld an Indiana law that prohibits abortion providers from discarding aborted childrens bodies and body parts together with used needles and lab animal carcasses. The nations top court overturned a decision by the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals that ruled the Indiana law was irrational and unconstitutional. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, writing on behalf of the majority, said that the circuit courts decision was manifestly inconsistent with our precedent. I would have thought it could go without saying that nothing in the Constitution or any decision of this Court prevents a State from requiring abortion facilities to provide for the respectful treatment of human remains, Thomas wrote in an opinion (pdf). The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Indianas interest in the humane and dignified disposal of human remains was not legitimate. The Supreme Court rejected that argument, citing a precedent. The Indiana Department of Health and others sued Planned Parenthoods local affiliate and other parties for incinerating aborted childrens body parts together with surgical byproducts, used needles, and lab animal carcasses, arguing that the abortion provider ran afoul of the states law requiring for dignified disposal of human remains. In the same ruling, the Supreme Court denied a request to rule on a decision by the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals to strike down an Indiana law. The law prohibited abortions in cases when the mother made the decision to abort her child solely on the basis of the childs gender or disability. Only the Seventh Circuit has thus far addressed this kind of law, the opinion stated. We follow our ordinary practice of denying petitions insofar as they raise legal issues that have not been considered by additional Courts of Appeals. While Thomas concurred with the majority that the Supreme Court should not yet hear the case, he argued that the court will soon need to do so given the potential for abortion to become a tool of eugenic manipulation. Eugenics is a set of beliefs that the genetic quality of humans can be improved by the use of morally questionable means that exclude some groups in favor of others. The use of abortion to achieve eugenic goals is not merely hypothetical, Thomas wrote. The foundations for legalizing abortion in America were laid during the early 20th-century birth-control movement. That movement developed alongside the American eugenics movement. And significantly, Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger recognized the eugenic potential of her cause, he added. In his opinion, Thomas reviewed the history of the eugenics movement in the United States and linked it to the reality of abortions today. Thomas pointed out that the rate of abortions per 1,000 live births for black women is 3.5 times that of white women. Similar statistics apply for other populations, Thomas noted, pointing to abortion data showing that Chinese and Asian-Indian families in the United States tend to sex-select boys. Having created the constitutional right to an abortion, this Court is dutybound to address its scope, Thomas wrote. Residents in the West Brook neighborhood cut tree limbs and pick up scattered debris the morning after a suspected ef-4 tornado touched down early in Trotwood, Ohio, on the morning of May 28, 2019. (Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images) Swarm of Tornadoes Pulverizes Buildings Across Ohio, Indiana; 1 Dead A barrage of storms and tornadoes tore across Ohio and Indiana early on May 28, killing at least one person and injuring scores of others, as homes were left smashed and power outages affected thousands. Forecasters said the storms were among 53 tornadoes that may have touched down during May 27 across eight states, stretching eastward from Idaho and Colorado. Media reports said that at least one tornado hit Dayton, Ohio, and at least two others touched down near the city, including one near the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The extreme weather came as part of a series of storms that have ravaged the U.S. Midwest in recent days. High winds knocked houses off their foundations, toppled trees, and hurled so much debris that it could be seen on radar. Highway crews had to use snowplows to clear an interstate highway in Ohio. Some of the heaviest damage was reported just outside Dayton. The National Weather Service said there was a risk of more extreme weather, including tornadoes and hailstorm in Kansas and other Midwest states. In the meantime, residents in Arkansas and Oklahoma braced for more record-breaking floods. The service also said that at least one of the tornadoes reached wind speeds of 140 mph. On May 23, at least three people were killed in Missouri because of an earlier rash of destructive tornadoes. It comes as lawmakers from both parties agreed to a deal on May 23 for a $19.1 billion disaster-relief package. The agreement between the House of Representatives and Senate negotiators came after President Donald Trump said he would sign it without any border wall funding. The Republican-led Senate approved the measure 858 as the Democrats, who have a majority in the House of Representatives, said a vote could soon follow in that chamber. In Celina, Ohio, 81-year-old Melvin Dale Hannah was killed when winds blew a parked car into his house, Mayor Jeffrey Hazel said on May 28. Theres areas that truly look like a war zone, Hazel said. Storm reports posted online by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations Storm Prediction Center showed that 14 suspected tornadoes touched down in Indiana, 11 in Colorado, and nine in Ohio. Six suspected tornadoes were reported in Iowa, five in Nebraska, four in Illinois, three in Minnesota, and one in Idaho. Trump said he spoke with Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt about the devastating storms. Trump said he reassured Stitt that the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the federal government are fully behind him and the great people of Oklahoma. In Twitter posts, Trump described the overnight storms across Ohio and other states as very dangerous and damaging, and noted that his administration is looking into helping those suffering from the extreme weather. My team continues to update me with reports from emergency managers in the States affected. Listen to your local officials and be resilient, Trump said in the post. We are with you! Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine had updated Trump on the devastation from the tornadoes as well, the president said. My Administration fully supports the people of the great State of Ohio as they begin the cleanup and recovery, Trump said. The National Weather Service said earlier that power outages were affecting 5 million people across Ohio. John Franks, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, told CNBC that the figure was based on the population of where those outages occurred. But according to the PowerOutage.US tracking service, more than 65,000 homes and businesses in Ohio were left without power on the morning of May 27. Officials advised people to boil water after water plants and pumps went out of service. Residents React I just got down on all fours and covered my head with my hands, said Francis Dutmers, who with his wife headed for the basement of their home in Vandalia, Ohio, about 10 miles outside Dayton, when the storm hit with a very loud roar on the night of May 27. The winds blew out windows around his house, filled rooms with debris, and took down most of his trees. A tornado with winds up to 140 mph struck near Trotwood, Ohio, eight miles from Dayton, and Mayor Mary McDonald reported catastrophic damage in the community of 24,500 people. If I didnt move quick enough, what could have happened? said Erica Bohannon of Trotwood, who hid in a closet with her son and their dog. She emerged to find herself looking at the sky. The roof had blown away. Sue Taulbee, 71, was watching television in her bed in the Dayton suburb of Brookline when she heard the telltale sounds of an approaching twister. They say its like a freight train: Thats what I heard, she recalled on May 28. She hid at the foot of the bed while flying debris smashed her window, and she was soon trapped as her home collapsed around her. It was only a couple of minutes, but it seemed like an hour, she said as she sat in her yard, surrounded by her scattered possessions. I just started screaming and my neighbors heard me and said, Sue! Sue! I hear you! Were coming! Were coming! Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Taiwan war planes are parked on a highway during an exercise to simulate a response to a Chinese attack on its airfields in Changhua in southern Taiwan on May 28, 2019. (Military News Agency via AP) Taiwan Lands Aircraft on Highway as Part of Military Drills to Counter China CHANGHUA, TaiwanTaiwan landed war planes on a normally busy highway on May 28 to simulate a response to a Chinese attack on its airfields, part of annual drills designed to showcase the islands military capabilities and resolve to repel an attack from across the Taiwan Strait. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen presided at the exercise in the southern county of Changhua, not far from one of the islands main air bases at Taichung, which comes amid perceptions of a rising military threat from China, whose rulers claim the island as their own territory. Our national security has faced multiple challenges, Tsai said. Whether it is the Chinese Peoples Liberation Armys long-distance training or its fighter jets circling Taiwan, it has posed a certain degree of threat to regional peace and stability. We should maintain a high degree of vigilance, she added. Aircraft deployed included U.S.-made F-16, French Mirage 2000 and Taiwan-made IDF fighter jets and U.S.-made E-2K airborne early warning aircraft. The drill marked the exercises debut of the first F-16 upgraded to the V configuration, featuring advanced radar and other combat capabilities. The air force is spending about $4.21 billion to upgrade 144 existing F-16A/Bs to the F-16V version under its Phoenix Rising project. Taiwan is largely dependent on the United States for military hardware and has also asked to purchase entirely new F-16V fighters and M1 tanks. American arms sales to Taiwan have long been a thorn in the side of U.S. relations with China. In a sign of growing security cooperation between Taiwan and the United States under the Trump administration, National Security Council Secretary General David Lee met with his U.S. counterpart, National Security Adviser John Bolton, earlier this month, drawing a protest from China. The visit was the first between national security chiefs from the two sides since the breaking off of formal diplomatic ties in 1979. Teva Pharmaceuticals workers pack drugs in a clean room at the company's manufacturing plant in Jerusalem on March 10, 2008. (Uriel Sinai/Getty Images) Teva Pharm to pay Oklahoma $85 million to settle opioid claims BOSTON/JERUSALEMTeva Pharmaceutical Industries said on May 26 it had agreed an $85 million settlement with the state of Oklahoma days before the company was set to face trial over allegations that it and other drugmakers helped to fuel the U.S. opioid epidemic. Teva, the worlds largest generic drugmaker, said the settlement does not establish any wrongdoing on the part of the company and denied contributing to opioid abuse in Oklahoma. Claims against Teva focused on the branded opioid products Actiq and Fentora as well as generic painkillers it produced. The trial against Israel-based Teva, along with Johnson & Johnson, was set to begin on May 28. The lawsuit alleged the companies marketing of the painkiller was to blame for the opioid epidemic. Johnson & Johnson had no immediate comment. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter has alleged that J&J and Teva, along with OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma LP, carried out deceptive marking campaigns that downplayed opioids addictive risks while overstating their benefits. The state also alleges the companies actions created an oversupply of painkillers and a public nuisance that will cost $12.7 billion to $17.5 billion to remedy. Oklahoma resolved its claims against Purdue Pharma LP in March for $270 million. The Oklahoma case is being closely watched by plaintiffs in other opioid cases, particularly some 1,850 mostly municipal and state governments that have sued the same drugmakers in the federal court in Ohio. Teva is pleased to put the Oklahoma case behind it and remains prepared to vigorously defend claims against the company, including the upcoming federal court trial in Cleveland where the majority of the cases are pending, the company said. Attorney General Hunters office said in a statement the money would be used to address the opioid crisis in Oklahoma and that the J&J case is still scheduled to go to trial on May 28 before Cleveland County District Judge Thad Balkman. Nearly all Oklahomans have been negatively impacted by this deadly crisis and we look forward to May 28, where we will prove our case against Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiaries, Hunter said in a statement. By Nate Raymond & Ari Rabinovitch 3 Chinese Police Officials Die Under Unusual Circumstances The deaths of several officials within Chinas police system, and the circumstances surrounding their deaths, have recently generated a lot of public attention. Chinese state-run media reported the three deaths in May. Li Qingzhou, 49, died unexpectedly in the early morning of May 13, according to a May 16 report by Beijing News. Li was head of an internal anti-corruption department at the Huaining County police department in Anqing City, Anhui Province. His official obituary said that the medications he had been taking for his liver disease had resulted in depression and ultimately, suicide. Wang Fengxiang, who was a political commissar (a Party official who supervises political education for cadres) for the Lushan branch of the Hefei City police department, also in Anhui, allegedly committed suicide on May 22, another Beijing News report said. According to the media outlets obituary, Wang died in a city about 260 kilometers (162 miles) away from his home after ingesting pesticide. He allegedly left a suicide note, saying that he had been taking anti-depressants for a long time. On May 20, Yu Siqing, director of the Chinese Communist Party committee at Zhangjiajie City police department located in Hunan Province, allegedly committed suicide at his home, Beijing News also reported. The report indicated that Yu had locked himself in one of the bedrooms inside his residence, and by the time family members broke in, Yu was already dead. They found Yu had a chisel and a suicide note beside his body. According to Beijing News, its believed that he used the chisel to stab himself and died from heavy bleeding. Yu said in his suicide note that he suffered from severe pains due to some long-term illnesses. He had suffered from kidney disease for years, and had submitted a resignation letter to the police department three months ago, but it wasnt approved. Chinese netizens expressed their doubts about the official claim that Yu killed himself. An ongoing political campaign targeting the countrys police system may provide some clues as to the unusual deaths. Beijing launched its campaign to sweep away blackness and eliminate evil in January 2018. Authorities announced that it would be a three-year campaign to eliminate mafia and gang organizations across the country. In reality, the campaign is focused on local officials who have provided protection to local mafia and criminal groups. In China, its common for officials to protect criminal groups from prosecution, in exchange for bribes. For example, from November 2018 to April 2019, in central Chinas Hubei Province, several top police officials were fired and brought to trial for offering protection to mafia, including the head of a municipal court, a top prosecutor at a municipal procuratorate, the deputy chief of a municipal Political and Legal Affairs Committeea Party agency that oversees security agencies in a local area, and a city police chief. Last month, the national campaigns supervision team announced that it had begun investigations into 11 provinces, including Hunan and Anhui. In the case of Yu, netizens speculated that parties that stand to be implicated by a corruption investigation into Yu committed foul play. Tang Jingyuan, a U.S.-based China commentator, told the Chinese-language Epoch Times on May 30 that last year, many officials were also reported to have committed suicide, right before the sweeping blackness campaign was set to arrive in their locale. Chinese officials often choose to end their lives rather than face an investigation into their wrongdoing and any subsequent punishment, he said. Additionally, Chinese authorities often attribute their deaths to depression to cover up the real motive. Trump Calls for Changes to Libel Laws After Ian Bremmers Tweet President Donald Trump called for changes to libel laws after Time magazine editor Ian Bremmer admitted to making up a quote and attributing it to the president. Bremmer, published a message on Twitter purporting to quote Trump during his visit to Tokyo. Original report by Ivan Pentchoukov United Airlines Extends Cancellation of Boeing Max Flights United Airlines is canceling another months worth of flights with Boeing 737 Max planes that were grounded after two deadly accidents. United said May 24 it has removed the Max from its schedule through Aug. 3 and will cancel about 2,400 flights in June and July as a result. It had previously canceled all Max flights through early July. Southwest and American have already dropped the Max from their schedules into August. Boeing is making changes to flight-control software that investigators believe played a role in crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia that together killed 346 people. The company is expected to soon formally submit its changes and a proposal for additional pilot training to the Federal Aviation Administration for approval. Acting FAA Administrator Daniel Elwell said that his agency is conducting a wide-ranging review of the crashes that will guide its analysis of Boeings changes to the Max and additional training for pilots. We are looking at everything, Elwell said, adding that the list included pilot procedures, training and aircraft maintenance. Elwell said no final decision has been made on pilot training, and he declined to give a timetable for the agencys review, saying only that the FAA wont allow the Max to return to the skies until it is convinced the plane is safe. The Wall Street Journal, citing unnamed government officials, reported May 24 that the decision to review emergency procedures used by pilots on previous models of the Boeing 737 could contribute to delays in approving the Maxs return to flying. Those procedures include how pilots should respond when onboard computers push the planes nose down, the newspaper said. In a statement, Boeing spokesman Charles Bickers said, We are working with the FAA to review all procedures. He said the safety of the previous version of the 737, called the NG, is not in question after more than 200 million flight hours in over 20 years. The FAA held a meeting May 23 in Fort Worth, Texas, with nearly 60 officials from more than 30 countries to explain its process for analyzing Boeings changes to the Max. In a setback to FAAs prestige, other regulators around the world grounded the plane in March after the second crash without waiting for the FAA to do so. The FAA hopes that this time, other regulatorssome of whom are doing their own separate reviewswill approve Boeings changes at the same time or soon after FAA does. Our review of the Max design changes, the software upgrade, is already underway, said Nicolas Robinson, the head of civil aviation for Transport Canada, that countrys counterpart to FAA. Robinson said, however, that its difficult to put a time limit on that because the length of the review will depend on how quickly Canada gets answers to questions it has about Boeings work. Robinson said that at the May 23 FAA meeting in Fort Worth, some attendees put timelines on the review process but the consensusand the view of FAAwas that this is not about meeting a deadline, its about getting safety done properly. It will be done when we feel comfortable. Uniteds decision to cancel more Max flights puts the carrier more closely in line with Southwest and American, the other two U.S. airlines with Max jets, which had already dropped the Max from their schedules into August. United is using other planes to cover some flights that had been scheduled with its 14 Max jets. However, the airline said that because of the Maxs grounding it will cancel about 1,120 flights in June and about 1,290 in July. Venezuela's illegitimate dictator Nicolas Maduro speaks during a demonstration at Palacio de Miraflores in Caracas, Venezuela on May 20, 2019. (Eva Marie Uzcategui/Getty Images) US Officials Walk Out of UN Forum in Protest as Maduros Ambassador Takes Chair U.S. officials walked out of a United Nations arms forum on May 28 in a protest against Venezuela assuming the presidency of the Conference on Disarmament (CD), which is decided on a rotating basis. The Trump administration, in the meantime, has continued to step up sanctions against illegitimate dictator Nicolas Maduro. The United States hasnt ruled out military action to remove what it and dozens of other nations believe was a rigged 2018 election. As Venezuela took up the one-month presidency of the Geneva talks, U.S. Disarmament Ambassador Robert Wood left the session and announced a boycott while Maduro Ambassador Jorge Valero chairs the forum. In 2018, the United States similarly protested when Syria took the chair. We have to try to do what we can to prevent these types of states from presiding over international bodies, Wood told reporters. Clearly, when you have regimes like [Syrias Bashar] Assad regime and the Maduro regime presiding over this body, there is something fundamentally wrong with how we are conducting our business. And we need to examine that, he said. A representative of Venezuelas legitimate interim President Juan Guaidowho is recognized internationally and has the backing of more than 50 nationsshould assume the seat, Wood said. On Twitter, he noted the regime is already dead; it just doesnt want to lay down. A photo posted on Twitter by Wood showed the seat meant for the United States was left unoccupied. He said the seat will remain vacant for the entire four-week-long presidency. The US chair in the CD chamber will be unoccupied during the former Maduro regimes four-week CD presidency. pic.twitter.com/KgGJjisrGk Robert Wood (@USAmbCD) May 28, 2019 Latin American delegations that recognize Guaido, including Argentina, Brazil, and Chile, stayed away from the conference, as well. Syria and Russia denounced what they claimed was politicization. Maduros ambassador also condemned the move at a news briefing. In the meantime, Maduro maintains control over Venezuelas state institutions. We regret that the representative of the United States and its docile allies continue to bring to this forum matters that are outside the mandate of the CD, Valero told reporters. It is not a forum for coup-mongering. Weeks ago, President Donald Trump said the United States will continue to stand with the people of Venezuela for however long it takes. U.S. officials have also continued to offer their support to Guaido. After a great rally in Panama City Beach, Florida I am returning to Washington, D.C. with @SenRickScott and Senator @MarcoRubio, discussing the terrible abuses by Maduro. America stands with the GREAT PEOPLE of Venezuela for however long it takes! pic.twitter.com/KcBoNfEibv Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 9, 2019 Despite U.S. sanctions, Venezuelas military top brass have largely ignored entreaties from Guaido and Washington to go against Maduro. A little more than 1,000 troops have defected, mostly to Colombia and Brazil. National security adviser John Bolton recently posted on Twitter a photo of Guaido speaking to a crowd of Venezuelans. Juan Guaido and the people of Venezuela continue to overcome Maduros efforts to halt the march towards prosperity and democracy, Bolton said on May 27. Maduros dependency on foreign security services to block the internet has not changed the determination of the people. On May 24, Brazils foreign ministry said Maduro will be unable to reverse the democratic transition happening now inside Venezuela, but noted that the military will need to support that change as well. The process that is in place since January is irreversible with all the international support for a democratic transition. Theres no way back to the Maduro regime staying in power indefinitely, Ernesto Araujo said. Reuters contributed to this report. Vet Warns Pet Owners to Chuck Kmart Dog Toy After Use Leads to Surgeries A veterinarian is warning pet owners about a $5 plastic chew toy sold at some Kmart stores and online that could lead to their dog needing surgery. Wilston Vet, a veterinarian in Brisbane, Australia, shared a post on Facebook about two cases of dogs who had to undergo major operations to remove broken pieces of the toy from their stomachs. The incidents happened in Australia but the dog toy is available online. According to the vet, last week two completely separate dogs (unrelated and unbeknown to each other) came in on consecutive days to a local emergency centre both with an obstructed gastrointestinal tract. (Vomiting, not eating and very sick). Both required major abdominal surgery to remove the obstruction. In both cases, it was a $5 Kmart dog chew toy. Warn everyone out there. They are brittle, and somehow break, and dogs think its a good idea to swallow them. Brisbanes Wilston Vet said it had notified Kmart about the incidents and urged them to stop selling the $5 Two Handled Tug Pet Toy. Our colleagues who saw these patients have contacted K-MART directly to remove them from their shelvesso lets hope they do, Wilston Vet wrote in the post. A Kmart spokesperson told the New Zealand Herald that the safety of their customers and pets was its number one priority. We want all members of the family; including our furry friends, to have a safe and positive experience when using our products at home, the spokesperson said. This is why we encourage customers to carefully read through all product care labels, to ensure they are selecting toys that reflect their pets size and play style. The post sparked a flurry of responses from worried dog owners, some who said they had bought the toy for their pets. My pups fav toy but now in the bin, wrote Tiana Fry. Id rather her be sad for a day then be in hospital. My relatives dog chewed a Kmart chew toy and had to have an emergency operation. The family contacted the company that the toy came from and they reimbursed the vet fees, wrote Christine Mitchell. Commenter Tania Tonuika suggested that there may be some overreactions to the incident. Dogs chew up stuff and swallow bits all the time, Tonuika wrote. If not this toy then it would have been something else. Are you gonna hide everything? My dog did have this toy, wrote Donna Bright, adding, ate it and was fine. Another commenter said owners should put chew toys away after the animals have finished playing with them to reduce the risk of mishaps. Biggest problem with most toys is that they are left out ALL the time, wrote Miriam Holley. Play with them, then put them away. Rope toys are also extremely dangerous when left out. Family Dog Survives Eating Five Bags of Heroin The incident recalls the case of a family dog in Australia that survived the harrowing ordeal of swallowing six baggies of heroin. According to an April 6 report by the Daily Mail, a cocker spaniel on a walk with its owner at a park in Brompton, Australia, picked up the bag of drugs off the ground and swallowed it. After becoming sick, the dog was treated with medication andeventuallysurgery. Pet pooch Shelby survives swallowing heroin balloons in South Australia. https://t.co/nmSfcmstqR PerthNow (@perthnow) April 6, 2019 The animal survived. No Ordinary Walk In the Park Shelby, a 16-month-old cocker spaniel, was out for a walk in the park with owner Denis Parslow, according to the Daily Mail report. Parslow told the news outlet he noticed Shelby had picked up a large plastic bag off the ground. He had something in his mouth which was quite large so I challenged him and he swallowed it, Parslow told the publication. The owner recounted how the dog became less active than usual, and later began to vomit. He took Shelby to a veterinarian, who first gave the dog antibiotics for a suspected gastrointestinal infection. The symptoms got worse, however, and Shelby was taken back to the vet for another consultation. An X-ray revealed the disturbing cause of the dogs persistent malady. Hed actually swallowed this plastic bag full of balloons of heroin, we were in a real state of shock at the time, Parslow told Australias 7News. Lucky escape for dog who ate heroin Meet Shelby, the luckiest dog alive, after he accidentally ate a bag of heroin he found at a park in Brompton. Story: 7news.link/Ya9uuXReport in 7 NEWS at 6pm.#Brompton #7NEWS Dikirim oleh 7NEWS Adelaide pada Jumat, 05 April 2019 Parslow said the veterinarian gave the dog Narcana medication normally administered to people suffering from a heroin overdose. The bag of drugs was inside the dog for five days, the owner told Daily Mail, before it was decided to remove it through surgery. Shelbys treatment ended up costing the family around $2,800, according to 7News. The owner said that to his knowledge no other dog had ever encountered anything like Shelby had, and the beloved family dog was lucky to be alive. Police have seized the heroin stash and are investigating its origin, according to LAD Bible. When the police saw him, they thought he looked very much unlike a drug mule or a suspect, said Parslow, according to the report. He added, [They] kind of fell in love with him as well, I think. Authorities in Australia said anyone who finds illicit substances should contact the police immediately. You should not touch or move the drugs, the NSW Police Force said. Chu Yiu-ming, one of the key organizers of Operation Yellowbird, smuggling Chinese dissidents out of China after the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, poses after an interview, at a church, in Hong Kong, China on May 14, 2019. (James Pomfret/Reuters) Veteran Cleric and Hong Kong Democrat Keeps Up Quest for Historical Truth of Tiananmen HONG KONGVeteran Hong Kong democracy campaigner and Baptist cleric Chu Yiu-ming was in his mid-40s when he joined demonstrators around Beijings Tiananmen Square in 1989, just before a bloody crackdown that roiled China. Thirty years later, the political landscape appears even bleaker to Chu, who helped smuggle out dissidents after the bloodshed, and helped lead pro-democracy protests in 2014 that blocked major roads in Hong Kong for months. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has clamped down hard on rights lawyers, activists, Muslim minority Uyghurs in the far western region of Xinjiang and Chus home city of Hong Kong. Regarding Chinas political situation, I feel even more pessimistic, the silver-haired Chu told Reuters while seated in a wooden pew in his Hong Kong church. The students back then were opposing corruption but now things are more serious than in 1989. The June 4 events remain a taboo topic, censored by the government, which has never given an official account of the killings, released a death toll or investigated those responsible. Witnesses and rights groups say hundreds, perhaps thousands, were killed and wounded. In Hong Kong, where a gritty opposition has agitated for full democracy since the British colony reverted to Chinese rule in 1997, Chu is considered a more measured democratic voice. But this year, he was convicted on a public nuisance charge for helping to organize the Umbrella Revolution protests of 2014 and received a 16-month jail term, suspended because of his poor health. In a speech from the dock, Chu, 75, said that in this last mile of his life, he would continue to fight for justice. Ours is an age of absurdity, he told the court. Living in a society on the brink of authoritarianism and of arbitrary rule, let me be a brave bell toller, ringing, waking up sleepy souls. Operation Yellowbird After the troops of the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) crushed the democracy movement in 1989, calling it a counter-revolutionary plot, more than a million outraged Hong Kong residents spilled into the streets in mass protests. A small group of activists, businessmen and gangsters organized a covert effort, Operation Yellowbird, to smuggle hundreds of students and activists out of mainland China, sometimes using high-powered speedboats. About 400 dissidents escaped, passing through Hong Kong en route to Western nations such as Canada, France and the United States. Chu helped with the diplomatic negotiations, while British authorities allowed fugitives to stay in Hong Kong until they received asylum abroad. Chu believes that even in the face of authoritarian power, there remains hope for change and progress, as symbolized by Hong Kongs refusal to forget. He has long attended the citys annual candlelight vigil for the victims of June 4, saying it helps preserve the historical truth of Tiananmen in the face of blanket Chinese censorship. Many Chinese officials come to see me and ask me, Cant you stop holding the vigil? And I tell them, No. Until the dictatorship apologizes, this candlelight will continue to make their conscience uncomfortable. By James Pomfret A fire burns near High Level, AB. on May 21, 2019 in this handout photo from the Alberta Government. (HO, Chris Schwarz, Government of Alberta/The Canadian Press) Weather Network Forecasts Starkly Different Summer Conditions Across Canada The weather this summer could be starkly different across the country, according to the latest long range forecast from The Weather Network. Chief meteorologist Chris Scott predicts the wet weather that Ontario and Quebec have experienced in May will continue during the summer months and could lead to a heightened risk of flash flooding in some areas. In sharp contrast, hes forecasting more hot, dry weather for most of western Canada, raising the wildfire threat, which has already prompted evacuations in northwestern Alberta. We expect the wildfire risk to be heightened this summer, said Scott, adding that there will be an above normal season for wildfires for most of B.C., western Alberta, the Northwest Territories, and Yukon. But Scott said generally this summer wont be remembered for its heatexcept for B.C.which he noted was expected to be the king of the heat this summer. Scott broke down the summer forecast region by region: British Columbia He said B.C. can expect a hotter and drier than normal summer which will bring a consistent threat of wildfires. Weve already seen some warm days and we expect June overall will continue that trend, he said. He also the warned the heat and lack of rain could be particularly hard on urban residents because of the possibility of water restrictions. Prairies Scott said his network is predicting slightly below average precipitation for the Prairies, but not to the point where farmers should be concerned about drought conditions. Albertas always the swing province in terms of weather, he said. We expect that to be the case again this summer with it really flipping between warm and cool depending on the week. The network is predicting near normal temperatures in general for the Edmonton to Calgary corridor, with precipitation also close to normal. Well get our normal share of active summer weatherthunderstorms, hail storms, Scott said, adding its part of living in that part of the country. The forecast for Saskatchewan and Manitoba calls for slightly lower than normal summer temperatures, with close to average precipitation. Ontario and Quebec Scott expects seasonally cooler conditions in northern Ontario and Quebec, and near normal temperatures in the southern parts of the provinces, which together will increase the chance of rain. He said southern Ontario and Quebec will get their hot days, but there wont be as many as last summer. Last summer was a deadly one, Scott said, referencing the heat-related deaths in Quebec. We dont expect this summer to be as hot. He said there will be some heavy periods of rain in the southern part of the region which will exceed average precipitation levels for the area. But we dont want to convey that this is a washout of a summerit does not look that way, he added. It just means that when it rains it pours. Scott suggests the wet weather that characterized much of the spring will persist into the summer months, leading to a heightened threat for flash flooding. He pointed to extreme weather conditions, such as the Toronto flood in July 2013 and the Burlington, ON., flooding a year later, as examples of what could recur this year. Atlantic Canada Scott said the Atlantic provinces can expect generally near normal temperatures, with some above average temps also forecast for the southern Maritimes due to humid air moving into the region from the Great Lakes. He said not to expect a lot of heat in June, but to prepare for more humidity across the region in July and August. Northern Canada As for northern Canada, Scott said expect an above normal fire season as you head west of Yellowknife, especially, and then into the Yukon. The network is predicting normal to slightly warmer than average temperatures extending to the Alaska border, while near normal temperatures and precipitation are forecast for Nunavut. Worlds Rivers Contaminated With Dangerous Levels of Antibiotics, Major Study Finds Hundreds of the worlds rivers are awash with dangerous levels of antibiotics, the largest global study on the subject has found. The study, which examined the levels of 14 commonly used antibiotics at 711 sites in 72 countries, found that 65 percent of those sites are contaminated with the drugs. The research, presented at a conference in Helsinki on May 27, revealed 111 of the sites contained levels of antibiotics that exceeded safe levels, with the worst cases more than 300 times the safe limit, The Guardian reported. Researchers analyzed samples from rivers in 72 countries and found that antibiotics were present in 65% of them. https://t.co/G5x9vPYioS CNN International (@cnni) May 28, 2019 The findings come as the United Nations in April declared antibiotic resistance a global health emergency that could kill 10 million people by 2050. By 2050, 10 million people could die each year from diseases that have grown resistant to drugs [resulting from an overuse of antibiotics], according to a UN report on drug resistance.https://t.co/TQiD4ZHeLy Ardra Manasi (@ArdraManasi) May 8, 2019 Speaking at the Helsinki conference, Alistair Boxall, co-leader of the study and environmental scientist, told The Guardian: Its quite scary and depressing. We could have large parts of the environment that have got antibiotics at levels high enough to affect resistance. Experts fear the levels of the drugs in rivers could contribute to a rise in bacteria thats resistant to treatment by antibiotics, which means they can no longer be used in medicines for humans. Professor William Gaze, a microbial ecologist at the University of Exeter who was not involved in the study, told The Guardian, A lot of the resistance genes we see in human pathogens originated from environmental bacteria. The antibiotics enter rivers and soil via human and animal waste, as well as leaks from drug manufacturing sources and wastewater treatment plants. The research, which was put together by a global team of scientists led by the University of York, found 35 percent of river sites in Africa and 23 percent in Asia exceeded safe limits for concentrations of antibiotics. 10million extra annual deaths worldwide by 2050, not from 1 disease but from 1 cause: ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE. Not a scare story but official report to UN. More research by scientists to find new antibiotics urgent & management of current ones Including not using in farming pic.twitter.com/076LMU0HGr Dr. Michael Porter (@portersDNA) May 8, 2019 In Kenya, one site contained levels of antibiotics more than 100 times the safe level, with some areas so concentrated no fish could survive, researchers said. Higher levels of antibiotics were found in the rivers of lower-income countries, the study found. Metronidazole, which is used to treat vaginal infections, was discovered in Bangladesh at more than 300 times the safe level, with residues of the drug discovered near a wastewater treatment plant. Lack of access to technology to dispose of the drugs in lower-income countries is likely to contribute to the higher levels of contamination, The Guardian reported. Dangerous levels of antibiotics have contaminated hundreds of rivers worldwide https://t.co/KzXv6tooUp Sky News (@SkyNews) May 27, 2019 Meanwhile, 15 percent of river sites tested in North America and 18 percent of river sites in South America contained dangerous levels of the drugs. Eight percent of sites in Europe exceeded safe limits, the study found. Even if relatively low levels of the drugs are found in rivers, it could still increase the likelihood of the development and spread of antibiotic resistance, researchers said. Even the low concentrations seen in Europe can drive the evolution of resistance and increase the likelihood that resistance genes transfer to human pathogens, Gaze told The Guardian. The results are quite eye-opening and worrying, demonstrating the widespread contamination of river systems around the world with antibiotic compounds, Boxall said. Many scientists and policymakers now recognize the role of the natural environment in the antimicrobial resistance problem. Our data show that antibiotic contamination of rivers could be an important contributor, he added. Solving the problem is going to be a mammoth challenge and will need investment in infrastructure for waste and wastewater treatment, tighter regulation, and the cleaning up of already contaminated sites. As climate change intensifies, whats under-recognized in the global debate is that one of the most powerful antidotes to the escalating destruction is also one of the simplest and most affordable: trees. Trees absorb more than two billion tons of carbon globally every year -- equivalent to one third of annual fossil fuel emissions, while cleaning our air and protecting our precious drinking water. Just one acre of hardwood trees can offset the entire carbon footprint of 18 people. Each tree we plant is a stalwart protector of our planet, but leading experts warn were not planting enough trees to mitigate the impact of a changing climate. Between 1990 when scientists from around the world gathered for the World Climate Conference in Geneva and 2017, carbon emissions increased 163 percent. During this same period, diplomats crisscrossed the globe again and again, negotiating the Kyoto Protocol, the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit and the Paris Climate Accord. Yet carbon emissions have continued to skyrocket. Related: It's Official: Customers Prefer Sustainable Companies Billions have also been invested in renewable energies to replace fossil fuels. These non-carbon energy sources show great promise, but after decades of concerted effort, renewable energies like wind and solar power account for only 20 percent of total energy consumption worldwide. These solutions alone have not been successful. A future thats coming into sharp focus -- of a planet with unbreathable air, polluted water, and devastated parks and forests -- is landing most powerfully with young professionals. People under age 30 identify climate change and the destruction of nature as the worlds most urgent problem, ahead of war and inequality, according to global surveys by the World Economic Forum in 2017 in 186 countries. Related: Amazon Employees Call for a Company-Wide Climate Change Plan Dubbed the Change Generation, Gen Z and younger millennials are taking over the global workforce. Increasingly, they seek employment with socially responsible companies committed to a greater purpose. Nearly 90 percent of millennials would consider taking a pay cut to work at a company whose mission and values align with their own, according to LinkedIns 2018 Workplace Culture Trends report. Further, 89 percent expect employers to provide hands-on activities around environmental responsibilities in the workplace. Will a global movement from these activist employees who comprise nearly 30 percent of the workforce compel businesses to find real solutions for climate change? Will the competition for talent drive more and more companies to take a hard look at what they can do to attract and retain these eco-focused workers? If so, tree planting and what it represents is a corporate social responsibility (CSR) pathway that any business can adopt and scale to create authentic employee engagement opportunities. You dont need to be a multinational corporation to do it; even a single tree can have impact, absorbing as much as 48 pounds of carbon dioxide every year. A 10-employee start-up can participate and contribute easily and cost-effectively. A global awakening to the urgent need to plant more trees is already underway. Reforestation of historic proportion is transforming the landscape in many countries, notably in China, India and most recently Australia, which earlier this year committed to a massive tree planting program that will continue for decades. Related: The Far-Reaching Impact of Embedding a Sustainable Workplace Culture for World Earth Day -- Today! The Arbor Day Foundation is proud to be part of this broad global crusade. Our new Time for Trees initiative pledges us and our corporate partners to plant 100 million trees worldwide by the year 2022. The companies that have joined us range from small businesses on the cusp of expansion to global brands with deep sustainability roots; all are connected by a common passion to preserve our planet. Companies that commit to sustainability efforts like tree planting enjoy not only increased brand loyalty and in turn, increased sales, but a more committed, engaged workforce that recognizes their employer shares their values and reflects a greater vision for a healthier planet. Together we can address the most critical challenge we all face, provide powerful experiences for employees and plant a better future for all of us, one tree at a time. Related: How the 'Change Generation' Is Motivating Businesses to Commit to Sustainability This Digital Startup is Re-defining the 'Impact' of Corporates' Social Responsibility How Tech Platforms are Helping CSR in India Copyright 2019 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved NEW MILFORD Crews searched for hours Monday for a missing boy who possibly drowned in Candlewood Lake. By 7:15 p.m., a Newtown dive team had yet to find the young male in the water off Dike Point Park, where he had celebrated Memorial Day with friends, New Milford Police Sgt. Jim Dzamko said. The murky waters hindered divers ability to find him, he said. There is just no guarantee they can find him right away, Dzamko said. The dive team halted the search after darkness fell, but planned to continue in the morning, NBC Connecticut reported. A dispatcher with New Milford police could not confirm this. Dzamko said had said it would be likely divers would need to suspend the search in the dark for their safety. The boy had been swimming near Rock Island before park-goers realized he was missing and called 911, Dzamko said. DEEP officials have said the water is anywhere from 20 to 30 feet deep there, Dzamko said. New Milford police, New Milfords Water Witch Hose Co. No. 2, crews from New Fairfield and Brookfield, Newtown Underwater Search and Rescue, and the State Environmental Conservation Police were called to assist sometime around 4 p.m. Emergency vehicles stationed in Gerards Waters Edge Marina, next to Dike Point Park. Authorities blocked off the section of Old Town Park Road right before the park and told drivers the park was closed. Police had not confirmed the boys name or age and had not contacted his family. Mayor Pete Bass said the boy was a teenager. The boy was not with family at the park, but Dzamko said he could not disclose the age of the people he was with because it would reveal the boys age. Detectives interviewed his friends, Dzamko said. The plan Monday night was to bring the boy to Danbury Hospital if he was found, Dzamko said. That plan could change if he was found days later, he said. The dive teams sonar equipment picked up a several hits in the water, but it was unclear what this meant, Dzamko said. It could be a body, he said. It could be a couple of rocks. Memorial Day weekend kicked off the summer swimming and boating season. This is not the way we want to start off, Dzamko said. Check newstimes.com for updates. Contributed Photo / contributed A Middletown woman was arrested in Vermont Monday morning after police said she was caught driving over 100 mph on a major highway while drunk. Vermont State Police said a trooper arrested Marina J. Fogarty, 24, of Middletown, after his RADAR speed measuring device recorded her speed as 102 on Interstate 91, where the speed limit is 65 mph. NORWALK Community members will get two shots on Tuesday, May 28 to learn more about the Norwalk Public Librarys plans for expansion and give their thoughts on the proposals. The draft plans call for an approximately 60,000-square-foot building that would include a curated collection of over 104,500 titles, the restoration of the original Carnegie Library, outdoor seating, comfortable reading areas, a maker space area, technology center with iMacs and a 300-seat auditorium. About 6,000 square feet would be set aside to be designed by Connecticut Public through a partnership to create a Southwestern Connecticut Media and Innovation Center that was unveiled earlier this year. The expanded offerings will aim to serve as a community anchor in the Wall Street neighborhood and the city as a whole, the draft plans detail. The goals of the plan call for creating a library that is a destination, community anchor and the intellectual heart of the town and designing a building that is intentionally inclusive, interactive and innovative. One of the main goals is provide flexible space to accommodate a variety of needs, from meeting space to independent study areas to technology centers. Throughout the three story renovation, about 350 seats are proposed for readers and learners of all ages. The plans break the library down into eight zones, each of which has its own unique characteristics street zone, welcome and service zone, adult zone, childrens zone, teen zone, community zone, CPTV zone and support zone. Some zones, such as the CPTV zone will be sectioned off from others, while other zones, such as the community zone will be made to be accessible even after main hours are closed so that way community groups can still use the space for meetings safely. Throughout the plans, there is goal of providing abundant charging stations so people can utilize their own devices or library devices throughout. The next step in this process is to collect public comment on the drafts and integrate the comments into the plan before approval by the Library Board. The opportunities for public comment will take place at the Main Library Auditorium at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 28. To access a copy of the draft plans, visit norwalkpl.org. kelly.kultys@hearstmediact.com Thank you all for being here today to live up to those words, Ricketts said. Memorial Day is the day that we remember those who died for us, put on that uniform to face the dangers overseas to protect our freedoms here at home and gave their full measure of devotion to our country. We remember and honor their sacrifices because if it was not for them, we would not be here today enjoying these privileges and freedoms. Ricketts said on the 40th anniversary of the Memorial Day Services at Hall County Veterans Memorial Park, Grand Island was fortunate to have the traveling wall at the site to recognize the sacrifices those (Vietnam) veterans made 50 years ago. Many of those veterans felt like they didnt receive a welcome home they deserve, he said. Now, it is our chance to let them know how valued they are and remember their comrades who did not come home. Ricketts said that of the 58,000 veterans on the Vietnam Wall in Washington, D.C. Of those names, 395 are Nebraskans. He told the stories of a few of those Nebraskans, urging those in attendance to remember their stories and honor them for their service and sacrifice. In addition, he urged people to remember those veterans who lost their lives outside of Vietnam. Find your favorite place to sit and dig into the popcorn. Or rip open that box of candy. Summer movie season is here, and that means it's time for the usual glut of massive blockbusters, the long-running series sequels and the crop of new horror films, music biopics, goofy comedies and fresh franchises. It's a season packed with superhero shows such as "Spider-Man: Far From Home" and "Dark Phoenix," sequels such as "Toy Story 4," spin-offs like the "Fast & Furious" film "Hobbs & Shaw," comedies such as "Men in Black" and plenty of remakes ("Aladdin," "Ophelia," "The Lion King," "Child's Play"). "Aladdin" Opened last weekend A sorta live-action read: heavily CGI'd and animated film featuring some human actors remake of the 1992 classic comes from director Guy Ritchie and features Will Smith as the blue-skinned Genie. "Brightburn" Opened last weekend This horror thriller is a new twist on an old superhero tale. What if the alien baby with superpowers who crash-lands on Earth doesn't embody truth and justice and instead is totally evil? Sounds exactly like what you'd expect from producer James Gunn ("Guardians of the Galaxy"). "Godzilla: King of the Monsters" May 31 Epic monster fights will light up the screen when Godzilla clashes with Mothra, Rodan and the three-headed King Ghidorah. Oh, and there are human characters in it, too, including Millie Bobby Brown, Kyle Chandler, Vera Farmiga and O'Shea Jackson. "Rocketman" May 31 This music biopic follows Elton John from his years at the Royal Academy and through his musical partnership with songwriter Bernie Taupin. Actor Taron Egerton shows his talents by using his own voice to sing throughout a film that blends musical fantasy and drama. "Domino" May 31 Brian de Palma directs Nikolaj Coster-Waldau in a thriller about a cop seeking out the man who murdered his partner, while ISIS and a corrupt CIA agent muck up the investigation. "Dark Phoenix" June 7 A decade after the events of "X-Men: Apocalypse," Marvel's mutants are back with a classic story straight out of the comics: Sophie Turner's Jean Grey is overtaken by an ultra-powerful cosmic force, which tears apart the X-Men and threatens the safety of the entire planet. "Late Night" June 7 An aspiring comedy writer (Mindy Kaling) lands a dream job on a show hosted by a legendary late night talk show host (Emma Thompson). Kaling wrote the script using her own experiences writing comedy. "The Secret Life of Pets 2" June 7 The adorable pets get up to no good once again when they go on a road trip to a farm, where the puppies meet a grizzled dog portrayed by Harrison Ford. "The Dead Don't Die" June 14 A killer cast led by Adam Driver and Bill Murray stars in this horror comedy about the hapless residents of Centerville, who seem a bit lost when zombies start attacking their town. "Men in Black: International" June 14 Tessa Thompson and Chris Hemsworth reteam to put on the black glasses and dark suits of the Men In Black. This one's a globe-spanning adventure for the new agents, who encounter an enemy that can shape shift to look like anyone, even other agents. "Shaft" June 14 Nearly 20 years after the last Samuel L. Jackson "Shaft" film, the cat that won't cop out when there's danger all about returns to the role. This time, he'll team up with his son, John Shaft Jr. (Jessie Usher). Oh, and the original John Shaft, Richard Roundtree, will appear in the film, too. "Child's Play" June 21 Chucky (this time voiced by Mark Hamill) is back and reprogrammed for the smart device era. What would you do if your favorite toy could not only control the devices in your home but also was a demonic and murderous doll? "Toy Story 4" June 21 It's been nine years since Andy gave Buzzy, Woody and the gang to Bonnie. And now there's a new addition to the gang, Forky, a homemade toy made from a spork, glue and pipe cleaners. And when Forky gets lost on a road trip, Woody has to save his new friend. "Yesterday" June 28 Something mysterious happens and the world's collective memory of The Beatles is erased. Except for one struggling musician, and he knows the band's catalog, using it to his advantage. "Ophelia" June 28 Rather than just another redo of Shakespeare, "Ophelia" is a reimagining of "Hamlet" told from Ophelia's perspective and starring Daisy Ridley, Naomi Watts and Clive Owen. "Spider-Man: Far From Home" July 2 Spoiler alert! The Web-Slinger survived "Avengers: Endgame," and Peter Parker leaves Spider-Man behind to head out on a school trip. Oh, but he's needed in Europe when Nick Fury and Mysterio show up and complicate his life. "Midsommar" July 3 We're freaked out just from the trailer. Ari Aster, director of "Hereditary," has a new story. A couple are invited to experience a festival in a Swedish village that might have some kind of cult activity. "21 Bridges" July 12 In this thriller, an NYPD cop portrayed by Chadwick Boseman shuts down all of Manhattan to track down a group of cop-killing gangsters. "Stuber" July 12 Laughs are on the way from Kumail Nanjiani, who portrays an Uber driver named Stu, and Dave Bautista, a cop who needs a ride share. The comedy is all about the craziest ride they've ever experienced. "The Lion King" July 19 Another remake of a Disney classic, this one brings back James Earl Jones as Mufasa and features Donald Glover as Simba, Beyonce as Nala, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar and John Oliver as Zazu. "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" July 26 Quentin Tarantino takes things to Hollywood in 1969 in a film about an actor (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his stuntman (Brad Pitt) and their neighbor, Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie). Oh, and they get involved with Charles Manson and go to the Playboy Mansion and generally experience late '60s Hollywood as much as possible. "The New Mutants" Aug. 2 Though plagued by reshoots, it appears the next (and possibly the last) entry in the X-Men film franchise is on its way. This one features a group of young superpowered mutants that have been imprisoned in a secret facility. "Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw" Aug. 2 If you're a fan of the first eight "Fast & Furious" films, you're probably really excited for this buddy cop flick starring Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham. If not, you can enjoy that this is a buddy cop flick starring Statham and The Rock. Win-win, right? "The Kitchen" Aug. 9 Based on the DC Comics series of the same name, "The Kitchen" takes place in the sex- and drug-infested Hell's Kitchen of the 1970s. When their crime lord husbands are arrested, Melissa McCarthy, Tiffany Haddish and Elisabeth Moss take over their syndicates. "Official Secrets" Aug. 23 Based on a true story, Keira Knightley plays translator Katharine Gun, the whistleblower who uncovered information about the United States' illegal activities in the run up to the invasion of Iraq in 2003. "The Angry Birds Movie 2" Aug. 14 The heroes of bird island are back, and they're once again angry with their enemies: the goofy green pigs. But this time, there's a third island that wants to destroy the other two. Now the birds and pigs must team up to stop their common enemy. "Good Boys" Aug. 16 A group of sixth graders get into trouble after a series of questionable decisions in this raunchy comedy from the guys who made "Superbad." "Playmobil" Aug. 30 We're not sure how a movie based on Playmobils will work, but honestly we weren't sure about "The Lego Movie," and that turned out just fine. In this toy movie flick, two real-life kids are sucked into a world of Playmobil toys, and they must find each other and free themselves. Coming Soon Those aren't the only big movies coming this year. Looking down the road, there is much more on the horizon. "It: Chapter Two" (Sept. 6) "Downton Abbey" (Sept. 20) "Gemini Man" (Oct. 4) "Joker" (Oct. 4) "Zombieland: Double Tap" (Oct. 11) "The Addams Family" (Oct. 18) "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood" (Oct. 18) "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" (Oct. 18) "Charlie's Angels" (Nov. 1) "Terminator: Dark Fate" (Nov. 1) "Frozen 2" (Nov. 22) "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker" (Dec. 20) Biden doesnt, for good or ill. Whatever you think of his pitch, its authentic. Hes been talking about the same themes unity, civility, bipartisanship long before Trump walked down the escalator at Trump Tower and laid siege to the Republican Party. And Biden is a better, more disciplined campaigner than in 2008, when he last ran for president or in 1988, when he first tried. All those factors give him, in his third attempt, the best chance at the nomination hes ever had. None of this guarantees Biden will win the nomination. Front-runners often fall short. At this point in the 2008 campaign, Hillary Clinton and Rudolph W. Giuliani led their respective parties polls; neither survived the primaries that year. Biden still needs to flesh out his sketchy policy portfolio with clearer ideas about the economy, climate change, healthcare and other crucial issues. His aides say those are coming soon. At some point, hell have to respond to Sanders needling about his past positions, including his 2002 vote to authorize President George W. Bush to use military force in Iraq. Sanders voted no for that war, as he did nearly every military action in his career. As we walked from the grave of the young woman who had died at only 17, I struggled for the right words to say to my mother. She was so young. What happened? Mom, always a progressive realist and not one to beat around the bush, replied, My beautiful friend died of an infection after a botched abortion. I was not going to press for details, but I knew when the time was right, my mother would tell me the full story. On the day of this conversation in 1972, I was a senior in high school, and the ruling of Roe v. Wade was not yet the law of the land. At the time, about one-third of U.S. states had liberalized or repealed criminal abortion laws. However, the right to have an abortion in all states was only made available to American women in 1973 when the Supreme Court struck down the remaining restrictive state laws with its ruling in Roe v. Wade. WASHINGTON (AP) The Supreme Court will decide whether the family of a Mexican teenager who was shot to death by an American border agent can sue for damages in U.S. courts. The justices said Tuesday that they will hear arguments next term in a case involving an agent who fired shots across the U.S.-Mexico border that killed 15-year-old Sergio Adrian Hernandez Guereca (gweh-REK'-ah). The shooting occurred in 2010 on the border between El Paso, Texas, and Ciudad Juarez (see-yoo-DAHD' WAHR'-ehz). Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Rizal Sukma (The Jakarta Post) London Tue, May 28, 2019 09:44 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a30bf0 3 Opinion Insight,Indonesia-foreign-policy,maritime-defense,ASEAN Free The presidential election is over, even though the final results will have to wait for the decision by the Constitutional Court by the end of June. It is time to start planning for the next five years. One area that needs careful thinking and debate is foreign policy. It is time for Indonesia, after a focus on strengthening national capacity (economic development) for almost five years, to start deepening its regional and international engagement. That should start with an understanding that Indonesias foreign policy must be based on a solid foundation and carried out to shape, manage and respond to the ever-changing external environment in a manner that would effectively advance our strategic national interests. The foundation of our foreign policy is given. Indonesia will never deviate from key principles of foreign policy. Those principles oblige the country to conduct a foreign policy that upholds the bebas-aktif (free and active) principle and plays a role as an active participant in pursuing international peace. No administration in Indonesia could afford to depart from these key and fundamental requirements. Indonesias long-term strategic interests for the next few decades are relatively fixed. Defending sovereignty, maintaining territorial integrity, pursuing peoples welfare and ensuring stability in Southeast Asia will continue to be Indonesias core national interests. However, strategic priorities, especially within the short and medium term, might change in accordance to challenges the country faces. Five imperatives are in order. First, Indonesias greatest strategic challenge for the next five to 10 years would be the imperative of positioning itself within the growing rivalry between the United States and China. We often say we will not take sides in that rivalry. We also hope we dont have to choose between the two superpowers. Yet, intention and hope are not policy. We need to actively create conditions that would ensure our strategic autonomy. It is imperative for Indonesia to create ballast that will prevent us from being pulled into the rivalry. That ballast should take the form of a regional order that combines norms, institutions and a balance of power. Second, that imperative requires a full and coherent implementation of the Global Maritime Fulcrum (GMF) as a strategic framework for foreign policy. As President Joko Jokowi Widodo declared, we will put forward Indonesias identity as a maritime nation and an archipelagic state. We should continue to (1) defend our maritime sovereignty and sovereign rights, (2) protect our marine resources, (3) ensure security and safety of our seas, (4) work with our neighbors to resolve both maritime and land boundaries, (5) play an active role in finding solutions to the South China Sea dispute and (6) support international efforts to ensure good order at sea. We should do this through the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), maritime diplomacy, naval enhancement and regional maritime cooperation. Third, the GMF needs to be implemented within a maritime outlook that recognizes two strategic oceans around us the Pacific and Indian Ocean as a single geopolitical and geoeconomic unit. Indonesia should integrate the two oceans as the focus of foreign policy. Whether it is called the Indo-Pacific or the Pacific and Indian Ocean (PACINDO) region, this maritime common area will become a theater where the pursuit of power and welfare will take place for the rest of the 21st century. The construction of an inclusive ASEAN-centered Indo-Pacific outlook constitutes a first step in that direction. Fourth, the implementation of the GMF concept and the construction of an Indo-Pacific outlook will require Indonesia to work closely with key major and middle powers in the region. We need to strike a balanced engagement with the US, China, Japan, Russia and India, and deepen our relationship with Australia and South Korea. As the Indo-Pacific is fast becoming the center of gravity of global politics, these are the countries that matter the most for the future of the region. Finally, it is imperative to see ASEAN as key strategic capital for Indonesias foreign policy. Efforts to strengthen ASEAN need to be intensified, so that ASEANs centrality and relevance do not fade away amid strategic transformation taking place in the region. One feasible way to ensure this is by putting forward fresh ideas on how the East Asia Summit (EAS), as an ASEAN-led institution, could be transformed into a premier regional institution capable of ensuring regional security and delivering prosperity to all parties. Strategic changes in the region are taking place at an unprecedented speed. If not managed carefully, the implications of those changes could be devastating for the region. Indonesia and ASEAN need to work fast to find a common ground to address them. *** The writer is the Indonesian ambassador to the United Kingdom, Ireland and the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The views expressed are his own. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Raad al-Jammas (Agence France-Presse) Mosul, Iraq Tue, May 28, 2019 07:00 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a2a3fc 2 Health mosul,Iraq,hearing-loss,health,#health Free For months, Alia Ali endured the din of fighting in Iraq's second city Mosul. Then a missile slammed into her home, killing her husband and her hearing. The 59-year-old lost her sense of sound in the final phase of the ferocious battle between government forces and jihadists of the Islamic State group, not long before the guns fell silent in July 2017. For nearly nine months, air strikes, mortar rounds and car bombs pummelled the city relentlessly, and thousands of residents still suffer hearing problems ranging from tinnitus to profound deafness. "I lost my sense of hearing two years ago," Ali recalled. "A warplane hit our neighbourhood in the fight for the western half of the city and my husband died of very bad burns," she told AFP. Ali spent two years piecing her life back together, but could not afford to get specialised care for her diminished hearing. "We lost our home and all our possessions -- we didn't have money to go to private clinics," she said. Blasts in conflict zones can propel debris into the human ear and rupture the eardrum, which transmits sound further into the cochlea. Nerves in the cochlea, which sends sound on to the brain to be processed, can also be destroyed by explosions. Mines have noise levels approaching 170 decibels -- twice the loudness needed to cause permanent damage to ears. Bleeding, nerve damage In Mosul, civilians were exposed to repeated loud blasts that sent between 15 and 20 a day to hospitals complaining of hearing loss. "They were bleeding from their ears because of the shelling, but they had nothing to stop the flow," according to hearing specialist Mohammad Saleh. "Some never recovered because their nerve cells were torn by the loud sounds." Mosul's health infrastructure was ravaged by IS's reign and subsequent fighting, with the 6,000 hospital beds available before the jihadist takeover reduced to just 1,000. With help from outside charities, hospitals are slowly reopening wing by wing. At Jumhuriya hospital in west Mosul, a specialised hearing impairment centre opened its doors less than a year ago with backing from Iraq's Dary Humanitarian Organisation. The waiting room is packed with people, young and old, waiting to get long-delayed hearing tests to see how badly the blasts have damaged their ears. "My hearing deteriorated after three mortars hit my house in west Mosul," 65-year-old Fathi Hussein yelled. He can only respond to questions that are virtually screamed, and answers them at the same volume. Read also: After years of silence, music fills streets of Iraq's Mosul "I put off treatment because I'm poor. I don't have the money for consultations or medicine," he said. Since the centre opened less than a year ago, it has treated several thousand patients, according to specialist Mohammad Said. "We have distributed 2,000 hearing aids so far. More complex cases get sent to hospitals in Baghdad for treatment, including cochlear implants which aren't available here yet," Said told AFP. He expects there are thousands more cases that have yet to visit the Jumhuriya centre. "Some patients went to private clinics, others went elsewhere in Iraq or even left the country and still others have received no treatment at all," he said. 'I want to go to school' For younger patients, partial deafness means more than just shouting to be heard -- it can affect schooling. "In kids especially, hearing loss can damage speaking ability," Said said. "It's extremely important because it means the hearing aids we distribute aren't enough, and these children are in need of treatments and speaking rehabilitation that we don't offer here." Five-year-old Mohannad may not remember much of life under bombardment in Mosul, but it will likely mar his education for years to come. He suffers both hearing and speech impediments from the fighting that were long left untreated. "I didn't notice how weak his hearing was until weeks after Mosul was liberated," his mother told AFP. She said she was now desperate to get free treatment for Mohannad in time for him to finally enrol in classes this autumn. "I want to go to school like our neighbour's son, Ahmad," Mohannad mumbled with difficulty. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Devina Heriyanto (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 14:30 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a4095d 1 Books Vabyo,Valiant-Budi-Yogi,Tukar-Takdir,#book,books,Indonesian-authors,Indonesian-writer,writing,short-stories Free What is fate? What is it like to be in a doomed airplane before it crashes? Also, what is the similarity between an actor and a luwak (civet cat)? Valiant Vabyo Budi Yogi plays with the idea of fate and humans in his latest book Tukar Takdir (Changing Fate). Launched last Friday, the book explores the inevitability of fate and the unexpected turn our actions can produce. There are two different definitions of fate, at least according to the Great Dictionary of the Indonesian Language [KBBI] and Wikipedia. According to the KBBI, fate is inevitable, while according to Wikipedia, fate depends on our actions, Vabyo told The Jakarta Post during a visit on Thursday. I like the latter definition better because it means that as humans, we still have the authority to decide our own life and fate. The concept of Tukar Takdir had been in the works since late 2015. However, the stories in the book could be traced back further than that. One story owes its origin to a draft of an unfinished novel that had existed since 2013 but was forgotten for a while. Now, I plan my stories ahead. Since suffering from a stroke, Ive lived with cognitive problems that often make me forget about things, he said. Even while writing, the story might end up differently, without planning. I get lost in my own mind. A collection of 12 short stories, Tukar Takdir was written through the perspective of multiple narrators. One of the challenges Vabyo found in writing was how to stay true to the character and not to drown in himself. There are times when I have difficulties, when the character is too Valiant and not Mardikun, for instance, he said. When Ive become comfortable with one character, comes the next challenge: To move on to the next one when starting another story. Read also: 12 Indonesian books you should add to your reading list A common mistake in books that employ multiple narrators is when the author fails to craft distinguished voices for each one. Instead of richness, the book will feel dry. To avoid falling into this trap, Vabyo made a scheme for the characters. Small details, including language and vernacular, matter especially when his cast of characters are highly diverse, ranging from a Sundanese man and a snail to a Betawi woman. There is this stall in Ubud [Bali] owned by a Betawi emak-emak [old lady]; she became the inspiration for my character. The original is much cruder than the fictional one, Vabyo said. This Betawi woman in Ubud is the only Betawi person he knows in real life, despite the fact that he lived in Jakarta for years before moving to Bali. Of course, there is also a story that is based on Ubud, but in Vabyos version, gone is the romantic, soul-healing version of Ubud that has become a mecca for soul-searching tourists after Elizabeth Gilberts Eat, Pray, Love. Ubud in Vabyos world is a haunted place, both by ghost and memories. One of his characters said it best: Ive seen many come here for romance, only to go home with a broken heart instead. This is one of the many jabs at the reality that Vabyo has included in his stories. He conceded that he could speak the truth better through fiction and humor. The latter has become a key characteristic of his works. His first book, Kedai 1001 Mimpi (A Cafe of 1001 Dreams), which tells his story while working abroad as a barista in Saudi Arabia, is also rife with humor. There was a lot of pressure in my life back then, and humor became my source of strength. I was stressed and dramatizing the situation would worsen the pain. Through humor, there was something to laugh about, he said. Tukar Takdir was born out of a similar hardship, hence the humor. I learned about humor from Herge, the author of The Adventures of Tintin, he said, citing his influence, which also includes Enid Blyton and Alfred Hitchcock. While he learned about the sense of youth and friendship from Blyton, he was greatly inspired by Hitchcock in writing his stories. It is no wonder that his readers start his stories with the expectation of a plot twist which he discouraged. For the readers: Dont go in hoping for a plot twist. Expectations can kill you, he cautioned. I never force a plot twist just for the sake of a plot twist. Its automatic. Plot twist or not, one thing is sure: writing is fate. Its a fate that I get to choose. (wng) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Geneva Tue, May 28, 2019 13:06 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a3d702 2 Health health,#health,WHO,burn-out,medical-condition Free The World Health Organization has for the first time recognized "burn-out" in its International Classification of Diseases (ICD), which is widely used as a benchmark for diagnosis and health insurers. The decision, reached during the World Health Assembly in Geneva, which wraps up on Tuesday, could help put to rest decades of debate among experts over how to define burnout, and whether it should be considered a medical condition. In the latest update of its catalog of diseases and injuries around the world, WHO defines burn-out as "a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed." It said the syndrome was characterised by three dimensions: "1) feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; 2) increased mental distance from one's job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job; and 3) reduced professional efficacy." "Burn-out refers specifically to phenomena in the occupational context and should not be applied to describe experiences in other areas of life," according to the classification. Read also: Japanese reporter died after 159 hours of overtime The updated ICD list, dubbed ICD-11, was drafted last year following recommendations from health experts around the world, and was approved on Saturday. "This is the first time" burnout has been included in the classification, WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told reporters. The ICD-11, which is to take effect in January 2022, contains several other additions, including classification of "compulsive sexual behavior" as a mental disorder, although it stops short of lumping the condition together with addictive behaviours. It does however for the first time recognize video gaming as an addiction, listing it alongside gambling and drugs like cocaine. The updated list removes transgenderism from its list of mental disorders meanwhile, listing it instead under the chapter on "conditions related to sexual health". Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ashley Tang (The Star/Asia News Network) Tue, May 28, 2019 16:59 945 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a4a16c 2 Health transgender,WHO,mental-disorder,health,#health,transgenderism Free The World Health Organisation (WHO) has removed transgenderism from its list of mental disorders and activists welcome the move. According to international news agency AFP, transgenderism has been removed from the list of mental disorders, but remains listed under the chapter on "conditions related to sexual health". WHO introduced the change in its 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) during the recent World Health Assembly in Geneva on May 25. The World Health Assembly, the WHO governing body that represents 194 member states, had agreed to adopt the revision that will come into effect on Jan 1, 2022. Malaysian transgender activist Nisha Ayub said the reclassification was a positive step as it meant that transgender people have no mental issues related to their identity and would also reduce the stigma against them. However, Nisha noted that it was not proper for WHO to classify transgenderism as a sexual issue. "They have to understand that being a transgender person especially transsexual people is not about our sexuality but about our identity. "They need to relook where they should place us in the medical perspective because it is not just about sexual health," she told The Star on Tuesday (May 28). Even with the WHO reclassification, Nisha said she was not sure if the situation would be any different for transgender people in Malaysia. Read also: WHO recognizes 'burn-out' as medical condition She said this was because any research or statements by any international agencies that have come out will often be deemed as not part of the Malaysian culture and will therefore not be obliged to implement it. Transmen of Malaysia founder Dorian Wilde also welcomed WHO's decision, suggesting that the government incorporate trans-inclusive healthcare as a key component of public healthcare so that medical transitioning can be accessible and done safely. Wilde also urged for the government to take WHO's decision seriously and to move to "repeal civil and syariah laws targeting transgender and gender non-conforming people". Meanwhile, the Malaysian Mental Health Association (MMHA) president Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj said WHO's reclassification was to help end discrimination and promote better understanding of the transgender community. "MMHA supports any move that is aimed to remove discrimination and to promote an inclusive society acknowledging the fact that societal barriers and legal recognition may be a far cry away. "Transgender people, like all vulnerable people, may have psychological distress as a result of how society views and treats them but need not be inferred that being transgender is an illness. "Every one must be allowed to lead a life of dignity including those with sexual incongruence," he said. Topics : This article appeared on The Star newspaper website, which is a member of Asia News Network and a media partner of The Jakarta Post Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Reza Mardian (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 14:44 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a414d2 3 Entertainment Disney,remake,disney-princess,aladdin,Beauty-and-the-Beast,#movies,The-Lion-King,Mulan,live-action Free While the critic's consensus of Disney's live action's Aladdin (2019) is not exactly shining, shimmering and splendid, it is without a doubt that Disney did a very good job retelling the 1992 animated classic to the modern era, catering both to fans raised in the 1990s and young audiences unfamiliar with 2D animation. If you're a Disney freak like me, you know that Aladdin won't be the only animated classic made into a live-action film this year. This July, you will be seeing The Lion King on the big screen and later in October, Angeline Jolie returns as a misunderstood fairy in the sequel to Maleficent (2014). In March 2020, a live-action retelling of the 1998's classic Mulan will hit theaters worldwide. Any child raised by Disney films like I was would think that this is a great time to be alive. Right? But the cynic in all of us cant help but wonder why a big-budget studio like Walt Disney Pictures would choose to reboot its animated classics or create more sequels (Mary Poppins Returns and Frozen 2) rather than come out with a brand-new story? This year alone, were getting the live-action versions of Dumbo and Aladdin and The Lion King, the fourth installment of Toy Story, the sequel of Frozen as well as Maleficent. Is creativity in the studio dying? Judging by critics ratings of the last three live-action endeavors Disney on Rotten Tomatoes, (Beauty and The Beast, Dumbo, and Aladdin), it seems that the powerful studio has been unable to wow audiences. Among those films, Beauty and the Beast has the highest score with a 70 percent rating. Read also: Disney's live-action 'Aladdin' casts a box-office spell So, why more live actions? 1. The money Let's face it: Walt Disney Picture is all about generating more revenue. Even though it did not manage to captivate critics, it still managed to captivate the audience's hearts. And that is more than enough if the studio was only concerned about revenue and customer satisfaction. After all, films are not made to entertain critics; it's all about creating an ultimate cinematic experience for casual moviegoers. And as long as they're entertained with new interpretations of beloved stories, why stop making live-action films? 2. Inclusion When you spent your entire childhood dancing and singing along to these characters, it's beyond magical to see them again when you're an adult and are the same age as them. I guess that's one of the few magical effects of movies. Not to mention, Aladdin's South Asian cast is also a strong statement for the world. I guess this is also the reason why Disney wants Mulan to have an all Asian cast. But if Disney was really concerned about inclusion and portraying more diversity, it should travel more and explore more cultures. Coco (2017) and Moana (2016) are two good examples. Let's hope they're not the only ones and Disney is bringing more diverse stories to be told. 3. Its just a phase This might be the most far-fetched theory so far, but I'm a believer that the magic in Disney is far from dead. I'm suspecting that the reason why it keeps making these live-action films and sequels is that its planning something bigger. (wng) Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Marguerite Afra Sapiie (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 The National Police have revealed another group they claim attempted to disrupt the capitals security during the riots that followed postelection protests against the victory of incumbent President Joko Jokowi Widodo last week. The protests, originally driven by supporters of losing presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto, descended into deadly riots as more violent groups became involved, leaving at least eight people dead and hundreds injured, including journalists and humanitarian workers. In their latest release on Monday, the police named six people suspects for alleged illegal arms possession relating to a murder plot against four state officials and the head of a polling agency during the riots that occurred on May 21 to 23 in several locations in Central and West Jakarta. Five men and one woman were arrested at different times and places in raids around Greater Jakarta, during which the police also seized at least four firearms and boxes of ammunition, National Police spokesperson Gen. M. Iqbal said. 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 Dian Septiari (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 10:27 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a33508 1 World 2019-presidential-election-result,Joko-Widodo-Maruf-Amin,world-leaders,diplomacy,congratulations,Retno-Marsudi Free Indonesia's top diplomat has said that at least 40 world leaders and three international organizations have congratulated Joko "Jokowi" Widodo on winning the April 17 presidential election, following last week's announcement from the General Elections Commission (KPU) on the the official tally. The incumbent and his running mate Maruf Amin were declared the winners of the election after gaining 55.5 percent of the vote, beating rival pair Prabowo Subianto-Sandiaga Uno with a margin of nearly 11 percent. Jokowi is to be named the president-elect once the Constitutional Court has settled all legal challenges from the rival camp. Read also: World leaders react to Jokowi's reelection Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said the leaders of 40 countries and three international organizations had conveyed congratulatory messages. "A number of heads of state congratulated the President upon the KPU's announcement," she told reporters on Monday, after a meeting with Jokowi at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, adding that many leaders had taken to social media platforms like Twitter and YouTube to offer their congratulations. "But some countries used conventional diplomatic channels, said Retno. British Prime Minister Theresa May, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and South Korean President Moon Jae-in were among the leaders who had called Jokowi to congratulate him. Others sent their congratulations through their Twitter accounts and diplomatic cables, including United States President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Retno said she expected more congratulatory messages for the reelected President as diplomatic cables continued to arrive. She also noted that world leaders had praised the free, fair and peaceful presidential and legislative elections. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 09:20 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a2ffef 1 Business TaniGroup,funding,start-up,marketplace,P2P-lending Free TaniGroup, a homegrown agriculture technology (agritech) start-up, announced on Monday that investors have injected US$10 million into the company, which will use the funds to expand business operations. Singapore-based Openspace Ventures led the round with participation from Intudo Ventures, Golden Gate Ventures and The DFS Lab, a fintech accelerator funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. TaniGroup operates two business arms, e-marketplace TaniHub and peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platform TaniFund. The e-marketplace allows consumers to buy fresh produce directly from farmers, while the P2P platform provides farmers with an alternative and legally-registered source of loans. We will also be rolling out several other supporting platforms that will further improve agricultural decision making, said TaniGroup cofounder Pamitra Wineka in a statement. Established in mid-2016, TaniHub has partnered with over 25,000 farmers across the country and operates five distribution hubs around Java. The company also serves over 400 small and medium enterprises and 10,000 individual customers. Pamitra said his company had much room to grow as Indonesias agricultural sector had barely been touched by technology even though it contributed US$90.76 billion to GDP last year, the second highest contribution after manufacturing at US$152.29 billion. Shane Chesson, a partner at Openspace, concurred with Pamitra, saying that his venture capital firm chose to invest in TaniGroup because it operated in a sector barely touched by digitization. TaniGroup last secured funding from Jakarta-based Alpha JWC Ventures in April last year. The value of this pre-Series A fund remains undisclosed. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 15:13 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a42c1b 1 Politics Democratic-party,Susilo-Bambang-Yudhoyono,election-dispute,election-protest,2019-general-election,2019-presidential-election,2019-presidential-election-result,2019-legislative-election Free Former president and Democratic Party chairman Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has called on his party to accept the official results of the 2019 general election on a few "conditions", claiming a lack of fair play during the elections. Yudhoyono, who is currently tending to his hospitalized wife in Singapore, delivered his statement by a video that was played at a gathering of party cadres on Monday at his Jakarta residence. "I personally, and the Democratic Party, uphold the value of accepting defeat if we have truly lost," he said on the video. However, he added that the party had suffered losses from what he claimed to be "lack of fair play" in the general election. "Frankly, there are many things that must be noted in the 2019 general election. Therefore, the Democratic Party offers its support to our legislative candidates who are challenging the results at the Constitutional Court," Yudhoyono said. The General Elections Commission (KPU) announced its official tally that shows the Democratic Party secured 10.8 million votes (7.77 percent) in the legislative election, to rank seventh among the nine parties that passed the 4 percent electoral threshold. The Dems backed losing presidential pair Prabowo Subianto-Sandiaga Uno. Yudhoyono added that the party would evaluate the 2019 elections to ensure that the 2024 elections would proceed more peacefully and fairly, especially for participating parties and candidates. He also addressed the criticisms laid against himself and his eldest son, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, refuting claims that Agus sought a Cabinet position. Agus met with President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo earlier this month at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on the President's invitation. "It should be a lesson that meetings can be held publicly without [slinking] through the back door to avoid negative rumors, because the meeting was [held in good faith]," he said, seeming to imply that Jokowi and Prabowo should also meet publicly to ease post-election tensions. (ars) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Kharishar Kahfi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 13:09 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a3df99 1 National komodo-dragons,smuggling,DNA-test,Environment-and-Forestry-Ministry,LIPI Free The authorities and scientists have confirmed that the smuggled Komodo dragons found in East Java in March did not come from the conservation site in Komodo National Park, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The results from the DNA tests show it is more likely that the animals came from the northern part of Flores Island in NTT, and not from Komodo National Park in the western part of the province, LIPI researcher Evy Arida said during a press briefing on Monday. The researcher added the test also revealed that the rescued babies were female. In March, police investigators in the East Java capital of Surabaya busted a network of criminals who had attempted to smuggle 41 Komodo dragons out of the country. Each of the animals was sold for Rp 500 million (US$34,762) on the international black market. Read also: Police foil attempt to export Komodo dragons for Rp 500 million apiece Komodo dragons are among the most endangered species in the world. According to 2018 data from the Environment and Forestry Ministry, there are only 2,897 Komodo dragons left in Komodo National Park, the only place in the world where people can see the animal in their natural habitat. Evy added there had been a plan to release the rescued baby Komodo dragons on Ontoloe Island in Ngada regency, once the court issued a verdict for the case. The ministrys director general of natural resources and ecosystem conservation, Wiratno, said the police were working to uncover the criminal network. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 10:22 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a3299d 1 National election,Papua,TNI,protest,violence Free Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel have shot dead four people after supporters of a local legislative candidate stormed the Fayit district office in Asmat regency, Papua. Papua military spokesman Col. Muhammad Aidi said the candidate for the Asmat Regional Legislative Council, identified only as JK, felt he had received enough votes to obtain a seat but was replaced with another candidate by his political party. According to Aidi, JK was unhappy with the partys decision and sent around 350 of his supporters, who were armed with traditional weapons, to attack the Fayit district office on Monday in response. Seeing the sudden anarchic situation, four soldiers from the nearby Fayit district military post were deployed to try and control the crowd, he said in a statement. He said the soldiers were forced to shoot at the crowd, which had turned to attack them, resulting in five casualties, four of whom died. The fatalities were identified as Xaverius Sai, 40, Nikolaus Tupa, 38, Matias Amunep, 16, and Frederikus Inepi, 35. Meanwhile, Jhon Tatai, 25, suffered gunshot wounds to his elbows and was taken to the Asmat public hospital. Aidi said a joint TNI-National Police team of 25 people had been deployed to the area and that the situation was now conducive. After receiving the report, Cendrawasih Military commander Maj. Gen. Yosua Pandit Sembiring quickly took action and coordinated with the Papua Police chief and Komnas HAM [National Commission on Human Rights] to form an investigative team to get accurate information, he said. (kmt) Topics : election Papua TNI protest violence Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Stefanno Reinard Sulaiman (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 10:38 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a341e6 1 Business Inpex,SKKMigas,Masela-block,agreement Free Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Ignasius Jonan has said Japans oil company Inpex Corp and the Upstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Task Force (SKK Migas) has agreed on the plan of development (PoD) of the gas-rich Masela Block in the Arafura Sea on Monday in Tokyo. Inpex and SKK Migas have agreed on the substantial matters of the Masela Block's development this afternoon in Tokyo. The discussion has been taking place for 18 years, Jonan said in a statement received on Monday. The investment is between US$18 billion and $20 billion with a fair share between the government and the contractor. The agreement was concluded when Jonan met Inpex Corp. CEO Takayuki Ueda in Tokyo on Monday. It was the second meeting after they met on May 16 also in Tokyo. During the May 16 meeting, both parties agreed on the final structure of the PoD. On Monday they discussed the details of the plan. According to the press statement, both parties agreed to have a win-win solution with a production sharing scheme, where the government will get at least 50 percent of shares. The agreement was marked by the signing of the meeting minutes between SKK Migas chairman Dwi Soetjipto and Takayuki of Inpex Corp. The final signing of the agreement between the government and Inpex Corp will be conducted during the G20 Summit in Japan soon, Jonan said. The 2019 G20 Summit will be held on June 28 and 29 in Osaka. The cost of the agreed project development with an onshore LNG plant is around $6 to $7 per barrel of oil equivalent (boe), 20 percent lower than the previous offshore LNG plant at $8 to $9 per boe, according to an SKK Migas statement. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Tehran, Iran Tue, May 28, 2019 19:49 945 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a4deeb 2 World Iran,war,trump Free Iran's foreign ministry on Tuesday insisted it did not currently see the need for mediation with the United States, as it played down the chances of a military clash with Washington. Spokesman Abbas Mousavi told a press conference that Tehran "does not feel any tension or (the possibility of) clashes" and said concerns had been "created by others". He told journalists that the Islamic republic "does not presently believe in" mediation. Iran is locked in a standoff with the United States which has beefed up its military presence in the Middle East in response to alleged threats from the Islamic republic. Washington has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and B-52 bombers to the region in a show of force. The moves are the latest spike since US President Donald Trump withdrew from a landmark 2015 deal on Iran's nuclear programme and reimposed sanctions. Iran earlier this month rolled back parts of its commitments under the nuclear deal and gave an ultimatum to the remaining world powers involved if they did not provide sanctions relief. Mousavi warned that if sanctions relief is not offered Tehran "will with severity take the next steps", meaning it could turn its back on more substantial parts of the accord. The situation between Iran and the US has led a number of countries in the Middle East and others such as Japan and Switzerland to offer to mediate. Tehran insists that it will not hold direct talks with the US government anytime soon despite Trump saying Washington would "like to talk" if Iran was ready. Mousavi said Iran was "listening to the views of countries" who have offered to mediate but had not received or given any "special message" during a flurry of diplomatic visits in recent weeks. Topics : Iran war trump Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 16:31 945 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a4528f 1 City Jakarta-council,deputy-governor,election,replacement Free The Jakarta Council special committee for the deputy governor election has made plans to visit Riau Islands Legislative Council to learn about how to select a new deputy governor after the position was left vacant by Sandiaga Uno. The committee had visited the neighboring Riau Province on May 22 although it had not disclosed results from the visit. From our visit to the two provinces, we received inputs on how to craft a code of conduct [on how to replace a deputy governor], the committees head Muhamad Ongen Sangaji said, adding that Jakarta Council could soon begin move to select a new deputy governot, kompas.com reported. As the leader of this committee, I will make sure we will have a new deputy governor soon, he added. Earlier, Home Ministry's acting regional autonomy director general Akmal Malik proposed that the Jakarta Council should establish a code of conduct before electing a new deputy governor. We suggest [the city council] take the example of Jambi and Riau who have done a similar thing [elected a new deputy governor]. However we do not suggest [the city council] visit Riau Islands because [the new deputy governor] resigned there after being chosen, Akmal said last Monday. The deputy governor position has been vacant in the past in the past one year after Sandiaga Uno left the seat to run as Prabowo Subianto's vice presidential candidate. (ami) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 13:14 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a3e81a 4 Business KEIN,cabinet,economic-team,comments Free The National Industry and Economic Committee (KEIN) has made a new proposal to President Joko Jokowi Widodo to set up a new economic team in his next Cabinet to help the country reach a higher growth target in GDP. An assessment from the committee found that the government has failed to introduce a growth strategy in the last five years because the country's economy relies heavily on household spending and that the country could be trapped in perpetual 5 percent growth. Since 2001, growth in household spending has declined and always been lower than 6 percent, said KEIN deputy chairman Arif Budimanta at a media gathering on Monday as quoted by kontan.co.id. To achieve 7 percent GDP growth, the government has to change its strategy, including by focusing more on exports and investment, particularly in manufacturing, he said. The head of KEINs agriculture and forestry working group Benny Pasaribu said Indonesia could still boost exports and investments, particularly in superior sectors. KEIN has studied four main sectors, namely agriculture, maritime economy, creative economy and tourism, he added. Unfortunately, the economic team in Jokowi's Cabinet had not given adequate attention to the four sectors, Benny said, adding that the agriculture sector including forestry and fisheries contributed 12.81 percent to GDP in 2018, 13.51 percent in 2017 and 13.48 percent in 2016. KEIN chairman Soetrisno Bachir said the new strategy could only be implemented if Jokowi appointed a new economic team in his Cabinet. He said 5 percent GDP growth did not reflect the countrys potential. The President has to appoint ministers who can make a breakthrough. Honestly, the current economic team is just doing business as usual. There are no out-of-the-box moves, he added. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Riza Roidila Mufti (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 11:41 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a36e64 1 Business toll-road,Trans-Java,exodus,rest-areas,jasa-marga Free Toll road operators have prepared 75 rest areas along the trans-Java toll road for the Idul Fitri exodus which is expected to kick off Wednesday. Millions of travelers are expected to leave for their hometowns, mostly from Jakarta to cities in West, Central and East Java as well as Sumatra to celebrate the Islamic holiday on June 5 and 6. Public Works and Housing Ministry spokesperson Endra S. Atmawidjaja said 25 new rest areas were constructed this year, an 50-percent increase from 50 rest areas in 2018. Endra said that there were three types of rest areas -- Types A (32), Type B (22) and Type C (21). Type A are rest areas with the most complete facilities toilets, parking lot, prayer spaces, gas station, restaurants, stores, garage, health clinic and spaces for relaxation, said Endra. Type B rest areas are equipped with toilets, parking lot, prayer spaces, stores, restaurants and green areas, while Type C areas are equipped with toilets, kiosks, prayer spaces and a makeshift parking lot. Pertamina has prepared mobile gas stations at Type B and C rest areas. This year, toll road operators along the trans-Java expect an increase in the number of travelers. The Transportation Ministry has estimated that 14.9 million people from Greater Jakarta will drive along the trans-Java toll road on more than private vehicles. State-owned Jasa Marga president director Desi Arryani said the company had anticipated traffic jams along the route mostly fromcars queuing to enter rest areas. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 20:48 945 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a4ffbf 1 Politics Ratna-Sarumpaet,false-news,hoax Free Prosecutors have asked the South Jakarta District Court to sentence Ratna Sarumpaet, a former campaign team member of losing presidential pair Prabowo Subianto-Sandiaga Uno, to six years' imprisonment for spreading hoax news. "We ask the panel of judges to sentence the defendant, Ratna Sarumpaet, to prison for six years, reduced by the defendant's detention period," prosecutor Daroe Tri Sadono said on Tuesday, as quoted by kompas.com. The prosecutors said that Ratna had caused unease by spreading pictures of her swollen and bruised face and claiming that it had been the result of an assault. Prosecutors charged her under Article 14 of the Criminal Code, which relates to spreading false news causing public unease. Ratna claimed in September last year that she had been assaulted by a group of men at an airport in Bandung, West Java. She also suggested that the assault was related to her campaign on behalf of Prabowo. Police arrested Ratna on Oct. 4 at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten, after investigating her claims. They found that the swelling on her face had been the result of cosmetic surgery at Bina Estetika Hospital in Menteng, Central Jakarta. She later admitted that there had been no assault and she had indeed had surgery. Ratna had asked the judges not to politicize her case. "The judges have promised not to politicize my case. I will await their decision," she said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 12:32 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a38a3a 4 City Trisakti-University,victim,incident,West-Jakarta,Jakarta-accidents,jakarta,Jakarta-police Free A student of Trisakti University died on Saturday after being hit by a falling piece of ceramic wall of the college campus' buildings in Grogol Petamburan, West Jakarta. The victim was hanging out with three friends inside building E of the campus when the accident happened, Tanjung Duren Police crime unit chief Adj. Comr. Rensa Sastika Aktadiva said. As they were chatting, suddenly a piece of tile dropped from the building's sixth floor and hit her on the head. The incident happened at 12 p.m. We received the information at 3 p.m. the next day [Sunday], Rensa said as quoted by kompas.com on Monday. The victims friends emerged unscathed from the incident. Rensa said the piece of ceramic from the wall allegedly fell after years of being exposed to rain and sunlight. Police found that at least two similar incidents happened in the past. The 30-year-old victim, identified as LPS, was rushed to the Royal Taruma Hospital on Jl. Daan Mogot and passed away soon after getting treatment. She was admitted to the hospitals emergency unit but she died when she was moved to the intensive care unit, Rensa said. The victims family reportedly asked the police not to undergo a postmortem identification on her body and expected to bury her body in her hometown in Boyolali, Central Java. (vla) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Panca Nugraha (The Jakarta Post) Mataram Tue, May 28, 2019 13:44 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a3ff26 1 National KPK,bribes,Visa,Immigration-Office,Mataram,West-Nusa-Tenggara Free The Corruption E radication Commission (KPK) has apprehended the head of the Mataram Immigration Office in West Nusa Tenggara for alleged involvement in the illegal extension of tourist visas. A team of investigators from the KPK arrested the official, identified only as K, at a coffee shop in Mataram in the early hours of Tuesday. The KPK also took into custody four other officers who were allegedly complicit in the illegal visa extensions. The KPK suspected that K had received bribes to extend the visa of foreign tourists who had reportedly been staying at a luxury hotel in West Lombok. KPK spokesman Febri Diansyah confirmed the arrests, saying investigators were looking into the case. Yes, we did assign a team to Mataram on Monday evening, he said. Meanwhile, Mataram Immigration Office representative Junianto confirmed the arrest of his superior. However, he was unable to provide further information regarding the alleged crime. (rfa) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Panca Nugraha (The Jakarta Post) Mataram Tue, May 28, 2019 15:44 946 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a43bca 1 National Quran-reading-contest,West-Nusa-Tenggara Free West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Governor Zulkieflimansyah has awarded Syamsuri Firdaus money and paid for a minor haj trip for winning the 7th International Al Quran Recitation Competition held in Istanbul. The governor was jubilant because the 20-year-old from Bima, a city located on Sumbawa Island, beat participants from 68 countries in the contest. We are very proud and congratulate him for the success, Zul, as the governor is usually called, said in a press statement. On his Ramadan trip in Sumbawa, the governor presented the gifts to Syamsuri and his parents. The prize also comes in Rp 25 million (US$1,740) in savings for Syamsuri. Syamsuri is a student of the University of Indonesias Arabic literature department in Depok, West Java. He is a recipient of the governments Bidik Misi program, a scholarship for students from families on low incomes. Syamsuri won a similar competition for children in Singapore in 2013. The central government also heard the news and invited him to meet President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Andrean Sangabie Sancaya and Felicia Clarissa (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta/Nunukan Wed, May 29 2019 This is my first-time setting foot in Indonesia, claimed Sarah (not her real name) with a confused, anxious face. Sarah, an Indonesian national, was born in Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia, of Indonesian parents and had lived there all her life. However, in 2018, together with her two children, she was deported to Indonesia through Nunukan, North Kalimantan, to her home country, which did not recognize her as its citizen. Sarah, de jure, is an Indonesian as a consequence of Indonesia holding to the jus sanguinis principle, or acquiring citizenship based on that of the parents. However, before the Indonesian consulate in Tawau assessed her upon a referral from the Malaysian Immigration Office, she had not been acknowledged either as a Malaysian or an Indonesian. She lived as a stateless, undocumented person. Thousands of people like Sarah live in Sabah, where inter-generational migrants from Indonesia settle down with improper (if any) documents. In the absence of figures for the actual number of Indonesia-origin migrants in Sabah, deportation records shed some light. While last year alone, 1,132 people were deported from Sabah through Nunukan for illegal stay and overstay, the real number of undocumented Indonesian descendants, invisible under the radar, is much higher. Most of these migrants originate from South Sulawesi and East Nusa Tenggara. 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 Dian Septiari (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 ASEAN and the government of Myanmar have agreed to take practical steps to alleviate the situation in Rakhine state, in accordance with a preliminary needs assessment (PNA) conducted in the conflict-torn region. The state was where Myanmars military cracked down on insurgencies in 2017 that drove out 730,000 Rohingya Muslims, a minority people in Rakhine who are denied citizenship and live in apartheid-like conditions. Myanmar is currently working with ASEAN to prepare for the safe, dignified and voluntary return of refugees who had fled to Bangladesh. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, May 28, 2019 16:36 945 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa873a454e9 4 News Indonesia,Cambodia,citilink,Phnom-penh,travel,destination,Airlines Free Low-cost carrier Citilink, a subsidiary of national flag carrier Garuda Indonesia, will roll out a new direct flight connecting Jakarta and Phnom Penh. The new route is set to launch in June and will be available three times a week. Using the Airbus A320 with 180 seats, the initial flight will depart from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten. The long-awaited direct flight will be realized this year, Indonesian Ambassador to Cambodia Sudirman Haseng said in a statement on Saturday. Read also: Citilink after tourists, students with new route from Surabaya to Kuala Lumpur Thong Khon, Cambodias minister of tourism, expressed his appreciation of the direct flight. I appreciate the Indonesian government, Indonesian Tourism Ministry, the Indonesian Embassy in Cambodia, Citilink and other parties for their support and participation, Khon said. The new service is expected to boost tourism for both countries. In 2018, around 2 million Cambodians traveled abroad and more than 8,000 visited Indonesia, while over 55,000 Indonesians flew to Cambodia. Additionally, the new route will be able to facilitate the more than 3,500 Indonesians currently living in Cambodia. (wir/kes) An attorney representing three related companies that conducted third-party billing for a trucking company whose co-owner is accused of scamming $3.65 million from Bandit Industries asked that his defendants be dropped from the lawsuit Tuesday morning. Bandit brought the lawsuit against six entities earlier this year after discovering a trucking invoice fraud that took the company for an amount of money that escalated each year from the first in 2011 until last year, when it involved $1.4 million. Lorie Stuer, who owned Stoney Creek Trucking, LLC, with her husband William is charged criminally in the matter. The scam was uncovered during an internal audit last year. Michael Hindelang, an attorney with Honigman LLP, told Circuit Court Judge Paul Chamberlain that the complaint filed against the companies he represents is too vague, saying that to allege fraud that the person doing so has to be very specific in what they are accusing. Hindelang represents eCapital, a third-party invoicing service that purchases invoices and submits them for collection. There are three different entities named in the lawsuit eCapital, Capital Partners Funding and Capital Partners Services that are related. Hindelang said the lawsuit doesnt specify which entity is accused of perpetrating what part of the scheme. You know, theres a good deal of dust in the air, he said, before adding, The defendants are entitled to summary disposition. By defendants, he did not mean either Stuer or Stoney Creek. Bandit attorney Jerome Galante said that the request to drop the three defendants is premature for reasons related to the fact that he couldnt specify which defendant did what. While he noted that his complaint contains a number of very specific accusations of what went into the fraud, he said that without information on the internal dynamics between the three entities Hindelang is representing that they cant know who did what. Hindelang said that this kind of fishing expedition is illegal, and argued that even if his clients were involved in defrauding Bandit that they existed only as a pass-through service providers and that since they ultimately only kept 5 percent of the money $182,500 is 5 percent of $3.65 million they have very little of Bandits money. He said that his clients are like a bank that gets a check to pay for a car, that they are not responsible for whether the person who wrote the check has money in his account. Galante argued that the capital partners eCapital, Capital Partners Funding and Capital Partners Services took part in an active part in the fraud, even if they didnt know that it promoted deceptive behavior. He listed the services eCapital provided in taking the invoices from Stoney Creek, administering them and collecting money on them. Whether they knew of the fraud is less important than that they benefited from it, he said, and that Bandit is allowed to recoup what was taken from it. They want to walk away from this case with money for work that was never done, which is wrong, he said. Chamberlain said he will issue a written opinion about it, but did provide one ruling Tuesday. An attorney representing the Stuers and Stoney Creek asked him to terminate the receiver appointed to manage assets in the lawsuit, saying that the order was vague. At the opening of his presentation, Ray Mashni told Chamberlain that hed be willing to withdraw his request to keep the receiver to handle the assets of Lorie Stuer and Stoney Creek, but sought clarification on what Williams requirements are. Lorie Stuer, according to court documents from the criminal case, told Isabella County Sheriffs Detective Sergeant Dave Patterson that she alone bore responsibility for the scheme. William knew nothing about it. In particular, Mashni wanted to know what happened in William Stuer got a job or started a business and whether this meant hed have to report those assets to the receiver. David Findling, the court-appointed receiver from Findling Law, told Chamberlain in rebuttal that he serves first and foremost as a court officer and has sought to sit down with the Stuers and was willing to hear a proposal that would allow them to earn income while also preparing to make restitution should the judge rule in favor of Bandit. He said that its also in Bandits best interests for the Stuers to work and earn income, so his priority was to sit down and work with all parties on a mutually-agreeable plan. Chamberlain told Mashni that his preference was that the parties sit down with Findling and work it out, adding that in his years as a judge hes appointed a number of receivers and that its always worked out well. He denied the motion to terminate Findling as receiver. Image credit: Ian Holton via Flickr This is how normalised its become: @SOAS academic running for far-right AfD in Germany. German rightwing populists list Gunnar Beck as prof, but the University says he is *only* a reader in law. Yes, b/c that makes it less abhorrent, SOAS. https://t.co/8VCAa0Z9nZ Maryyum Mehmood (@marymood) May 14, 2019 Hey @SOAS how can you employ, Gunnar Beck, an academic who is running for a far-right racist, Islamophobic, anti-Semitic and xenophobic party??? Sort it out. https://t.co/ov4BKesXtS Kidiaba's Ponytail (@KidiabaPonyTail) May 13, 2019 Swede expresses gratitude to Thai officials for handling of partners death PHUKET: A Swedish woman who lost her boyfriend in a freak accident at their Phuket home has expressed her gratitude to Phuket Immigration Police and Tourist Police for their support and assistance in handling the repatriation. accidentsdeathimmigrationpolice By Eakkapop Thongtub Tuesday 28 May 2019, 04:44PM Satu Hanhijoki thanks officials for their assistance with the repatriation of her late boyfriend, Jarno Andre. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Satu Hanhijoki (right) thanks immigration officials including Phuket Immigration Police Chief Col Kathathorn Kumthieng (left) for their assistance with the repatriation of her late boyfriend, Jarno Andre. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Jarno Andre, 54, went into a coma after he slipped and fell on the bathroom floor at his home on Wednesday, May 15. He was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital and placed on an ICU but died the following day. It is believed that he suffered internal organ damage as a result of the fall. As Mr Andre and his girlfriend, Satu Hanhijoki were not married, the repatriation process became difficult for Ms Hanhijoki to deal with. Complications arose causing the Swede more distress, which led her to write about her struggles on Facebook. The post caught the attention of immigration officers and found its way to the very top as National Immigration Police Chief Pol Lt Gen Sompong Chingduang ordered the Phuket Immigration Office to cooperate with Phuket Tourist Police and the Swedish Consulate in Phuket to assist Ms Hanhijoki with the matter. Phuket Immigration Police Chief Col Kathathorn Kumthieng told The Phuket News today, Ms Hanhijoki told me that she was having problems with the repatriation process so we worked with the Swedish Consulate in Phuket and made contact with Mr Andres mother in Sweden who is providing documentation to authorise Ms Hanhijoki to handle the matter. Maj Tosapon Kitilap of the Phuket Immigration Office told The Phuket News that the consulate is working closely with Ms Hanhijoki and immigration officials are assisting. Ms Hanhijoki subsequently took to Facebook to express her gratitude for the assistance she received from Thai officials. Thank you to all police officers, tourist police and immigration for the absolutely wonderful help I got from all of you, she wrote. Weather warning tour cancellations spur new reviewed advisory PHUKET Following a slew of complaints from tourism operators over official weather warnings unnecessarily causing large-scale booking cancellations, the Tourism Business and Guide Registration Office (TGBRO) Region 2 in Phuket will soon start issuing its own weather advisories. tourismweather By Tanyaluk Sakoot Tuesday 28 May 2019, 11:10AM Tourists enjoy snokelling off Coral Island on Sunday (May 26), despite an official weather warning issued for the area. Photo: Guide Janny / Nikorn Marine Phuket TGBRO Region 2 Chief Atipong Sangsilp told The Phuket News that his office had received many complaints from tourism operators, especially those in the boat tour industry. The complaints centred on recent official weather advisories warning of heavy rain and strong wind-waves for Phuket and the surrounding region, resulting in large numbers of cancellations by tourists believing that Phuket was in for bad weather. Instead, Phuket during recent days experienced nothing but clear skies and gentle breezes. The new TGBRO weather advisories will be launched in June, explained Mr Atipong, who as TGBRO Region 2 chief is responsible for serving all tourism business in Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, Trang and Ranong provinces. We understand that tourism businesses have been affected by recent weather notices and boating warnings. The complaints we have received pointed out that tourism operators try to reschedule their tours and boat services as much as they can to try to keep their customers, but there are still too many cancellations, he said. Because of this, the TGBRO in June will start issuing its own notices. Our notices will provide details aimed at tourism business only. "Our notices will consider advisories issued by the Thai Meteorological Department and weather maps. It will be reliable information, and will include additional details about the type of boats that should still be allowed to operate considering the weather forecast and be mores specific about which areas will be subjected to the heavy weather, Mr Atipong explained. This should help to avoid confusion among tourism businesses when they read warnings issued by other government agencies, he added. Tourism operators will just need to read and hold to our notices only. There will be no need for it to be more complicated than that, he said. Regardless, Mr Atipong stressed that safety remained the top priority for all tourism operators. Everyone must focus on tourist safety first. We dont want to get risk any lives. Everyone remembers what happened to the Phoenix, he said. Tourism businesses must avoid risky situations. We want tourists to return to Phuket. To do that, we must remind them that safety comes first, and that comes with comfortable service, Mr Atipong said. The slew of complaints from tourism operators of unnecessary cancellations follows the Phuket Marine Office issuing a notice to all boat operators calling for them to beware storm conditions and for operators of small boats to refrain from putting to sea from last Thursday (May 23) through to tomorrow (May 29). (See story here.) The same warning was re-issued yesterday (May 27). That warning followed an advisory issued by the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) last Tuesday (May 21), warning of heavy rain, strong winds and waves more than two metres high from last Thursday through to tomorrow. (See story here.) Southern Pines, NC (28387) Today Partly to mostly cloudy. Record high temperatures expected. High around 75F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Rain showers this evening with isolated thunderstorms developing overnight. Low 63F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%. Class-action lawsuit filed against South Dakota state mental hospital Those needing mental health services are instead sitting in jail months at a time, the lawsuit says. There is considerable debate in the South Okanagan on whether a recreation trail between Osoyoos and Penticton should be located on the east or west side of Vaseux Lake. ABINGTON Stephen W. Christian, CPA, a member of the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs (PICPA), visited Pennsylvanias congressional representatives in Washington, D.C., to discuss the accounting professions advocacy agenda. Pennsylvania CPAs were attending the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) Spring Meeting of Council and Annual Members Meeting from May 19-21. The visits to Capitol Hill were a highlight of the AICPA meeting. I was proud to be with my peers during these meetings, said Stephen W. Christian, CPA, PICPA president. I think making these personal visits with our elected officials on Capitol Hill is one of the best ways to educate them about the issues important to the accounting profession and the taxpayers they represent. At the top of the professions list of issues are modernizing the Internal Revenue Services (IRS) taxpayer services, changing the trigger that allows the IRS to grant deadline extensions when natural disasters occur, taxation issues within the digital economy, and a resolution by Congress relating to the fiscal state of the nation. Exxon Mobil and Chevrons unwillingness to venture beyond their core oil and gas business will face a test Wednesday when shareholders vote on climate change proposals at both oil companies annual meetings. The U.S. oil majors have typically enjoyed an easier ride from investors on environmental issues compared with their European rivals. But pressure is building from some investment managers, especially after Royal Dutch Shell and BP recently made significant shifts to address investor concerns. I dont think theyre doing nearly as much as the majors in Europe are, said Brian Rice, a fund manager at the California State Teachers Retirement System, which manages about $230 billion including Exxon and Chevron shares. Alternative energy, to me thats the future. Theres still a big difference between the U.S. and European oil majors over how they deal with investors climate concerns. For example, BPs board this month supported a proposal that it disclose how the companys investments are compatible with the Paris climate accord. Exxon, by contrast, asked the Securities and Exchange Commission to strike a similar proposal off the ballot a wish that was granted. Yet U.S. energy companies cant afford to be complacent. The New York State Common Retirement Fund and the Church of England criticized Exxons plea to the SEC and vowed to vote against all the companys directors at its meeting. Theyre urging other shareholders to do the same. Exxons inadequate response to climate change constitutes a serious failure of corporate governance, they said in a filing earlier this month. The oil giant said in response that its board already holds at least one session a year dedicated to climate issues and already discloses the likely effects on its business. Representatives from Exxon and Chevron didnt respond to requests for comment. The two funds, which are working with the Climate Action 100+ group of investors who oversee $32 trillion in assets, also urged shareholders to vote in favour of the establishment of a climate change board committee. Chevron investors will vote on the same proposal. Exxon CEO Darren Woods and his counterpart at Chevron, Mike Wirth, are both reluctant to embrace wind and solar power to replace oil and gas because renewables generally offer lower shareholder returns while also offering their companies little in the way of a comparative advantage. They claim they can increase oil and gas production even if fossil fuel demand shrinks, because they aim to have the lowest-cost assets that will be economic, regardless of commodity prices or policy environment. Woods this month announced a partnership with the Department of Energy to make new discoveries in the clean energy space. Were working on a solution that doesnt exist but is needed, he said at the time. Somebody needs to be doing that. Aside from climate change, Exxon and Chevron also face another potentially controversial vote: whether to split the roles of chief executive officer and chairman once the incumbents step down. Both boards recommend investors reject the idea, but Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. and Glass Lewis, two leading shareholder advisory firms, pledged their support for the idea. Read more about: SAN FRANCISCOMindy Cruz had an offer for a full-time position at another big tech company when she accepted a temporary job as a recruiter at Google in 2017. The pay was less and the benefits were not as good, but it was one step closer to her dream of becoming a Google employee. Cruz became one of Googles many temps and contractors a shadow workforce that now outnumbers the companys full-time employees. But she never made the jump to full time. She was swiftly fired after a Google manager, whom she said had harassed her for months, told the temp agency that had hired her that he wanted her gone. High-tech companies have long promoted the idea that they are egalitarian, idyllic workplaces. And Google, perhaps more than any other, has represented that image, with a reputation for enviable salaries and benefits and lavish perks. But the companys increasing reliance on temps and contractors has some Google employees wondering if management is undermining its carefully crafted culture. As of March, Google worked with roughly 121,000 temps and contractors around the world, compared with 102,000 full-time employees, according to an internal document obtained by The New York Times. Though they often work side by side with full-timers, Google temps are usually employed by outside agencies. They make less money, have different benefits plans and have no paid vacation time in the United States, according to more than a dozen current and former Google temp and contract workers, most of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity because they had signed nondisclosure agreements. Better treatment for those workers was one of the demands made by organizers of a Google employee walkout last year to protest the companys handling of sexual harassment complaints. Its time to end the two-tier system that treats some workers as expendable, the walkout organizers wrote on Twitter in March. When Sundar Pichai, Googles chief executive, did not respond to those demands, a group of anonymous contractors sent an open letter demanding equal pay and better opportunities for advancement. In April, hundreds of Google employees signed another letter protesting the dismissal of about 80 per cent of a 43-person team of contingent workers working on the companys artificial intelligence assistant. In response, Google said it was changing a number of its policies to improve conditions for its temps and contractors. The reliance on temporary help has generated more controversy inside Google than it has at other big tech outfits, but the practice is common in Silicon Valley. Contingent labour accounts for 40 per cent to 50 per cent of the workers at most technology firms, according to estimates by OnContracting, a site that helps people find tech contracting positions. OnContracting estimates that a technology company can save $100,000 (U.S.) a year on average per American job by using a contractor instead of a full-time employee. Its creating a caste system inside companies, said Pradeep Chauhan, who runs OnContracting. In statements to The Times, Google did not directly address concerns that it had created a two-tiered workforce, but said it did not hire contractors simply to save money. Eileen Naughton, Googles vice-president of people operations, said that if a contingent worker is not having a good experience, we provide lots of ways to report complaints or express concerns. She added, We investigate, we hold individuals to account and we work to make things right for any person impacted. Out of the loop When Google became a public company in 2004, its founders, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, wrote that they believed in rewarding employees with unusual benefits because our employees, who have named themselves Googlers, are everything. But not everyone doing work for Google over the years has been a Googler. The company has been using temps and contractors since its early years in projects like scanning books for online search. According to one former Google employee, temps and contractors accounted for about a third of the workforce about a decade ago, and that share has steadily climbed. Googles contractors handle a range of jobs, from content moderation to software testing. Their hourly pay varies, from $16 per hour for an entry-level content reviewer to $125 per hour for a top-shelf software developer. Google usually pays staffing companies, which find the workers and provide them with salaries and benefits as their employer. But the current and former contract and temp workers, as well as four Google employees, said Google was the employer in all but name. It decides what jobs they do, dictates where and what hours they work, and often decides if and when to fire them. Googles contractors are barred from company events like holiday parties and all-hands meetings. They are not permitted to look at internal job postings or attend company job fairs. In some instances, email messages about workplace security concerns that went out to full-time staff members were not shared with contract workers even though they worked in the same offices, the contractors and temps told The Times. In their letter to Pichai, the temp workers said the company sent security updates only to full-time employees during a shooting at YouTubes offices last year, leaving contractors defenseless in the line of fire. They were also barred from a meeting the next day to discuss the attack. Andrea Faville, a YouTube spokeswoman, said that the exclusion had been an oversight and that contractors had been invited to another companywide meeting later that week. She said all security updates went out to all staff members, including contractors and temps, although two contractors working at YouTube said they had not received notices. Temps with doctorates Google has relied on temporary workers even when the work has become more permanent. When the company started a research project code-named Pygmalion in 2014 to improve its speech-recognition technology, it hired temporary employees many of whom had doctorates in linguistics to help annotate and structure data so Googles computers could better understand what people were saying, according to five people familiar with the project. The team grew to about 250, and the majority were contractors. Some contractors worked two years on the project, which is Googles limit, and took a six-month break before returning in a similar role. As the project grew, Google managers pressed contractors to do more. In a complaint to the human resources department, one full-time employee said project leaders pressured contractors to work longer hours than stated in their contracts without reporting overtime. The project leaders made subtle promises of conversion to full-time status, two of the employees said. Google said it had learned of a possible violation in February and immediately opened an investigation, which is still continuing, into unpaid overtime. The company said it instructed employees not to promise temps future employment. Our policy is clear that all temporary workers must be paid for any overtime worked, Naughton said. If we find that anyone isnt properly paid, we make sure they are compensated appropriately and take action against any Google employee who violates this policy. States and the federal government are trying to define the distinction between contractors and employees more clearly. The difference usually depends on how much control the company exercises over the worker. That is based on certain criteria, like whether the company has the power to hire or fire the employee, or supervise and control work schedules or conditions of employment. As a result, companies keep contingent workers at arms length. In response to the issues with its temp workforce, Google is both trying to improve their treatment and distancing itself from their management. Last month, Google said it would require staffing agencies to provide contract and temp workers with comprehensive health care, paid parental leave and an hourly minimum wage of $15. Many contractors who reported to a Google employee are now being managed by another contractor, who is the only one permitted to speak to full-time employees, three of the workers said. And Google is moving groups of contractors out of some offices in the United States and into separate buildings owned by Google but mostly managed by outside contractors. When Cruz, the temp recruiter, worked in a Google office in Mountain View, Calif., she sat with permanent recruiters and used a Google email address. Her manager, a Google employee, said he expected to convert her to full-time status after a year as long as she met her hiring quotas, which she did. That is why she did not say anything when her manager started asking her out. She repeatedly rebuffed him, she said, and his advances turned to harassment. He once invited her to a team outing at a winery that turned out to be just the two of them. That night, he tried to kiss her and put his hand up her dress. I had heard that a lot of times when you say something to your recruiting agency, they just take you out of the situation and put you somewhere else, Cruz said. And I didnt want my job to go away. She said she had considered reporting a claim when she suspected her manager was looking for a way to fire her. But she was fired in February before she had a chance. Her account was detailed in legal documents seen by The Times. Cruzs sister, Kristi Beck, said Cruz had told her about the harassment while it had been going on. Cruzs agency, Search Wizards of Sarasota, Fla., told her that Google was dissatisfied with her work. She was told that the dismissal was unusual, but that there wasnt much the agency could do because her manager wanted her gone. Miranda Hinshaw, chief executive of Search Wizards, said the company did not discuss past or present employees/contractors with any third party. Cruz filed a complaint to Google a month later. Google said it had fired the manager in April after it investigated. Cruz agreed to a settlement in mediation after months of proceedings. (Google said the matter was now resolved.) But one part of the settlement still gnaws at her: She is not allowed to work for Google again. It feels so unfair, she said. They took away this very big opportunity. Read more about: CALGARY - Husky Energy Inc. is slowing its capital spending on western Canadian projects over the next five years to allow downstream capacity to catch up with oil production as pipeline constraints continue to impede the industrys ability to get oil out of Canada. Average annual capital spending will fall to $3.15 billion under a new five-year plan unveiled Tuesday, down 10 per cent from about $3.5 billion per year under its 2018-22 plan released a year ago. Despite a $1.7-billion total capital investment reduction over the five-year period, Husky expects free cash flow before dividends to add up to a total of $8.7 billion based on a flat US$60 West Texas Intermediate price. The biggest changes were driven by our desire to focus the business on generating higher levels of free cash flows over the plan, said CEO Rob Peabody on a webcast from the companys investor day in Toronto. This was achieved by reducing the spending and growth in our Western Canada resource play business and pacing our thermal production growth in light of current production quotas imposed by the Alberta government and basin egress issues. He added excess cash is earmarked for higher shareholder dividends. An example of the investment slowdown is in Huskys rollout of cookie-cutter 10,000-barrel-per-day steam-driven oilsands projects near Lloydminster, Sask., chief operating officer Rob Symonds said on the call. Last year, the company said it would aim to complete two projects per year the pace has now been reduced to three projects every two years, he said, noting one new project will be on stream later in 2019 and five more are planned by the end of 2023. Some of the savings will also come from Huskys operations in Indonesia, where regulatory issues have resulted in a one-year delay in its shallow water offshore Madura Strait gas project, the company noted. Meanwhile, Husky will increase by later this year the heavy oil throughput capacity at its Lima, Ohio, refinery by 30,000 bpd to allow more western Canadian oil to displace lighter oil feedstock. It is planning a minor expansion of its Lloydminster heavy oil upgrader for 2020 and expects to have its Superior, Wis., refinery, heavily damaged in a fire last year, to be rebuilt and running at full capacity by 2021. The Calgary-based company controlled by Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-Shing says it will grow production by about 100,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day over the five years to between 400,000 and 415,000 boe/d despite the lower spending. In response to an analyst question, Peabody conceded on the webcast that the Jackfish oilsands project being marketed by Oklahoma City-based Devon Energy Corp. would likely fit into Huskys integrated corridor business plan but he wouldnt say if the company is interested in making an offer. Earlier this year, Husky dropped a hostile bid for oilsands rival MEG Energy Corp. after falling just short of the needed two-thirds shareholder support. Huskys plan to sell its small Prince George, B.C., refinery and retail gas station network is attracting strong interest, Peabody said, adding he hopes a deal will be concluded by year-end although it may be delayed if it requires competition regulator approvals. In December, Husky took $300 million out of its 2019 capital spending budget to account for the impact of Alberta oil production quotas and lower global oil prices. It says it still expects to record capital spending of between $3.3 billion and $3.5 billion this year to take average production to between 290,000 and 305,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. Follow @HealingSlowly on Twitter. Companies in this story: (TSX:HSE) OTTAWA - Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer says he wants to end Canadian imports of foreign oil by 2030, a move experts say would mostly affect purchases from the United States and could endanger deep trade relationships. Scheer raised the idea in a recent speech, stating Canada shouldnt buy oil from rogue states with poor human-rights and environmental records, like Iran, Venezuela and Saudi Arabia. In dollar terms, the vast majority of Canadian oil imports about 64 per cent came from the U.S. last year, while 18 per cent came from Saudi Arabia, six per cent from Azerbaijan and three per cent from Norway. Nigeria, the United Kingdom and Algeria were also sources of imports last year into Canada. Canada hasnt imported any crude from Iran or Venezuela in recent years. Meanwhile, virtually all the millions of barrels of crude oil Canada exports each day are sold to the United States. Pedro Antunes, chief economist for The Conference Board of Canada, said outright oil independence is not a big economic issue for the country. Alleviating transportation and logistical pressures on Albertas oilsands is far more important, he said. If youre really just trying to target all of our oil imports, then yeah I think that might cause some difficulties, Antunes said. We have some very open trade relations with some of the countries that are oil importers into Canada. Scheer also said he no longer wants to depend on oil from the United States, which he called Canadas biggest economic competitor. He argued that an energy-independent Canada would be a Canada firing on all cylinders. Part of Scheers plan includes the creation of a cross-Canada utilities corridor to ease pipeline construction and to open up new domestic markets for oilsands bitumen. Like the Conservatives, the Greens have also made a pre-election pledge for different reasons to end Canadas reliance on foreign oil imports. Green party Leader Elizabeth May, whose ultimate objective is to wean Canada completely off oil by 2050, has promised to end foreign crude imports as soon as possible. Since May opposes new pipelines, she envisions moving more raw bitumen by rail, with help from investments to improve train services, until Canada stops consuming oil. Talk of any determined push towards Canadian crude independence appears to be a message crafted to appeal to some voters. A number of experts, however, worry an absolute target of oil independence could also send unwelcome protectionist signals to the world and mean resisting market forces. Instead, the country should be focused on loosening bottlenecks that are preventing Albertan oil from getting to new markets. I think there is a concern of protectionism whenever youre limiting imports, said Grant Bishop, an associate director of research at the C.D. Howe Institute think-tank. You have to have a good economic or security reason for doing so. Im not sure that there is one here for crude-oil production. Martha Hall Findlay, CEO of the Canada West Foundation think-tank, said exploring the viability of a utilities corridor is fantastic. But the pursuit of oil independence sounds extremely protectionist, said Findlay, a former federal Liberal MP. Were heavily dependent on trade, so why would a trading country start talking about protectionism and independence? It doesnt make sense for an economy such as ours, Findlay said. I really think that this idea of independence and protectionism is politics but economics would say were crazy not to buy our own. Mike Moffatt, an assistant professor of economics at Western University, said hesconcerned whenever he hears politicians say their goal is to get completely off foreign oil. Thats a decision that should be left to companies, said Moffatt, who was an adviser to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau between 2013 and 2015. It does seem to be a shift in messaging from a traditional, free-market Conservative positioning to one thats sort of more nationalistic. Follow @AndyBlatchford on Twitter CALGARY - TC Energy Corp. has signed a deal to sell an 85 per cent stake in its Northern Courier Pipeline to Alberta Investment Management Corp. for roughly $1.15 billion. The company formerly known as TransCanada says the 90 kilometre pipeline transports bitumen and diluent between the Fort Hills mine site in northern Alberta and Suncor Energys terminal north of Fort McMurray, Alta. TC Energy will retain a 15 per cent stake and remain the operator of the pipeline. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter. TC Energy chief executive Russ Girling says the sale helps the companys efforts to fund its capital program. The company recently completed the sale of its Coolidge Generating Station in Arizona to Salt River Project Agriculture Improvement and Power District. Companies in this story: (TSX:TRP, TSX:SU) Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version stated that TC Energy sold its Coolidge Generating Station to a subsidiary of Southwest Generation Operating Co. LLC. Tanzania will no longer allow Acacia Mining to manage its mines in the country and will only work with the companys parent, Barrick Gold, to resolve the two-year impasse that has stymied operations, a government spokesman said. We will no longer work with Acacia, Hassan Abbasi said Tuesday by phone. Under no circumstances can Acacia be a party to the agreements, or have any role in the operation or management of the Barrick mining subsidiaries in Tanzania. The ball is now in Barricks court. Acacia has been at odds with Tanzanias government since July 2017, when the state handed the London-listed gold producer a $190 billion (U.S.) tax bill, saying it under-declared bullion exports. Barrick has since led discussions with the government and, in an effort to solve the impasse, surprised the market last week with an informal plan to buy out Acacias minority shareholders. In response to Toronto-based Barricks buyout proposal, Acacia advised its shareholders last week not to take action as it considers developments and tries to verify Tanzanias position. On Tuesday, a spokesman for Acacia had no comment other than to reiterate that the company is continuing to seek clarification from the government. Read more: Barrick CEO says nothing exploitative in lowball play for Acacia Mining shares Barrick plans to mop up Acacia at discount and end Tanzania pain Acacia shifts blame to Barrick gold for Tanzanian tax standoff 2017 framework Abbasi said the government of Tanzania will continue to try to resolve the dispute based on a previous tentative agreement with Barrick. The initial agreement that we reached with Barrick in October 2017 is the one that is guiding the negotiations, Abbasi said. In a 2017 meeting between President John Magufuli and Barrick Executive Chairman John Thornton, it was tentatively agreed that Acacia would pay $300 million to the government to settle tax claims and would split future returns from operations with the country. At the time, Acacia criticized the move and blamed Barrick for its worsening relationship with Tanzania after Thornton took over negotiations. Last week, Barrick said the government of Tanzania had made clear it wont negotiate a settlement with Acacia. Barrick chief executive officer Mark Bristow has repeatedly spoken about the breakdown of the relationship between the two companies, and between Acacia and the government. A Barrick spokeswoman said Tuesday it had no additional comment. Barrick and Acacia have to sort out their differences so that we can move forward and resolve the dispute, Abbasi said. Read more about: Texas money is flowing into a small corner of Canadas oilsands at a time when big international companies are pulling out. Rangeland Energy, based in the Houston suburb of Sugar Land, is building a 50,000-barrel-a-day, 85 kilometre pipeline in the Marten Hills area of the Athabasca oilsands in northern Alberta to transport heavy crude from one of Canadas newest oil plays. The conduit would link the remote location north of Fawcett Lake to the Plains Midstream Canada LP Rainbow Pipeline. The investment plan is a rare reversal of fortune for Canadian oil producers, beset by pipeline bottlenecks and mandatory production curtailments. In the past two years, companies including Royal Dutch Shell and ConocoPhillips have sold oilsands facilities, often reallocating funds into U.S. booming shale plays. While Marten Hills is located in an oilsands region, producers including Cenovus Energy Inc., Deltastream Energy and Spur Petroleum are employing multilateral drilling techniques used in shale to tap the Clearwater rock formation more than 1,600 feet underground, well below the oilsands that have traditionally drawn companies to the region. Backed by San Antonio, Texas-based private equity firm EnCap Flatrock Midstream, a unit of Houston-based EnCap Investments, Rangeland first entered the Canadian market about three years ago. The company won the contract to build a pipeline after responding to a request for proposals from three area producers, John Millar, Rangelands chief commercial officer, said by phone. Our financial backer in Texas has always been interested in establishing a footprint in Canada, he said. Our observation is that the political climate is changing and people are feeling that things need to change. Investment in Western Canadas oilpatch has been declining since global oil prices started to collapse in 2014. A shortage of export pipelines made things worse last year, causing local crude prices to plunge and prompting the provincial government to impose output caps. Projects to increase transportation capacity like the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion to the Pacific Coast and Enbridges Line 3 to the Midwest have faced repeated delays from court decisions, regulatory hurdles and local opposition. Last month, Albertas United Conservative Premier Jason Kenney was swept into power on pledges to fight harder for pipelines. The Marten Hills area, just east of Slave Lake, is a rare bright spot. The area saw a flurry of land grabs a few years ago, including a $10.15 million deal by Scott Land & Lease in 2017 that amounted to the single most expensive oilsands land lease in six years. Recoverable oil Oil production has only reached about 10,000 barrels a day but is poised to expand once the pipeline starts operating next year, Millar said. The area could yield 390 million barrels of oil if just 3 per cent of its crude is recovered, but the nearby Pelican Lake has a 28 per cent recovery rate using the so-called polymer flooding technique where liquid is injected into the ground to force more oil to the surface. Using the same method with similar success, recoverable oil at Marten Hills could rise to 3.5 billion barrels, Millar said. That would be more than the reserves of OPEC member Gabon. Deltastream, one of the three producers committed to shipping crude on the pipeline, has almost doubled the number of wells it plans to drill by year end to 45, chief executive officer Roger Tang said by phone. The company, which is currently producing 5,500 barrels a day in the area, is seeking to raise output to its commitment on the pipeline of about 11,000 barrels a day, Tang said. The pipeline is scheduled to enter service in the second quarter of next year with construction starting this fall, Millar said. Three shippers made combined minimum volume commitments of 40 per cent of the systems capacity. The line will have room for new drillers and Rangeland is already looking at the prospect of an expansion within about three years. Our view is that this pipeline is probably going to be a catalyst for the play to develop further, Briton Speer, Rangelands vice president for business development in Canada, said. Read more about: It has been less than a year since Adam Kanzer made the move from Domini Impact Investments to head of stewardship, Americas, for BNP Paribas Asset Management. So we cant yet assess Kanzers accomplishments in his new role. But we can take it as a positive sign in the realm of sustainable and responsible investing. Lets back up. Domini is a name unlikely to resonate with many Canadian readers, but the New York-based firm has been at the forefront in incorporating environmental and social considerations into its investing MO since its inception in 1991. In fact its more accurate to state that universal human dignity and ecological sustainability have been the firms primary drivers, what once might have been deemed faith-based standards, before the investment community started to wake up, slowly, to the imperative of ethical investing. Or sustainable investing. Or socially responsible investing. Or ESG investing (environmental, social and governance). Domini prefers the term impact investing. Its trademarked branding line: The way you invest matters. For two decades Kanzer took the lead in Dominis shareholder advocacy. Eight months ago he assumed the newly created stewardship position at BNP, the French colossus that dates its roots back to 1848 and today has more than $630 billion in assets under management and operations in more than 30 countries. This spring, BNP joined with 56 institutions targetting large publicly traded agricultural companies that source soybeans from Brazil, especially the vast savannah known as the Cerrado, which has been massively deforested as a result of soybean production. Soybeans, you might ask? Since when? Theres been a lot of attention on palm oil the last few years, which is appropriate, Kanzer acknowledged in an interview. But the focus on deforestation has to not so much shift as broaden. The Cerrado region in Brazil is very rich in biodiversity and a key soya production area. Each farmer is permitted to deforest a significant percentage of their land, and were concerned about (Brazilian President Jair) Bolsonaro coming into office. Hes made a lot of statements about climate and deforestation that are alarming. A strong private sector initiative is needed to push back on that. That private sector initiative is being led by environmental groups Ceres and PRI, and their call-to-action on sustainable forests. Its not about boycotting Brazil, Kanzer said. Its about continuing to produce soya, continuing to produce beef products, but do it in a way that respects the forest and local biodiversity. We should all know about the Cerrado Manifesto, which warns that the destruction of even a third of the savannah that remains would equate to the loss of about 8.5 billion tons of carbon dioxide sequestration. Dont stop there. If all youre worried about is net greenhouse gas emissions, which is critically important to worry about, you may miss some of the most critical aspects of preserving forests. In essence you could say, well, we could trade a forest in Indonesia for a forest in Brazil as long as the greenhouse gas emissions are net zero. But you cant do that for biodiversity and you cant do that for the local community and you cant do that for the local weather systems or the water table. Perhaps its a mistake to say agri-companies have been targetted by BNP and the other institutional investors concerned about deforestation in Brazil . What they are asking for are traceability commitments and measurable monitoring of sustainable protocols. The group of investors, by the way, represent $5.6 trillion (U.S.) of assets under management. Kanzers is an important voice on this. Back in 1998, when he started with Domini, the world of socially responsible investing was so small for the most part people didnt really know what to do with us. Companies didnt really know what to make of us. Other investors didnt really know what to make of us. The imperatives of traceability and supply chain management think off-shore labour conditions gained little traction then. One of my first conversations with a company was about labour conditions in their supply chain, Kanzer recalled. I distinctly remember the company saying, Well, you have to understand, we dont own these factories. Yes, the still-fresh reminders of Rana Plaza work against the belief that these problems have been fixed. There are still a whole lot of companies that are hoping they dont get a phone call from an investor because theyre really not doing very much, Kanzer said. He takes solace from the large firms he cites the Gap as one that have put real programs in place, including publicly disclosed traceability reports. It takes a larger leap of faith to believe the electronics company he is in current discussions with will effectively address the forced Malaysian labour that it is complicit in employing. It seems important to ask about corporate behaviour in a down cycle. Will the better behaving companies remain that way in a turning economy? Theres always a risk that the bottom line will take over in a pinch, Kanzer said. In a way, climate change and biodiversity may be the most effective vectors for forced change. Weve gotten to the point where whether you care about sustainability or not, if youre ignoring climate change youre ignoring massive potential risk in your portfolios. In closing, Kanzer offers a most memorable takeaway: A four-degree world is uninvestable. WHITEHORSEThe Transportation Safety Board says two people have died in a plane crash in Yukon. Spokesman Jon Lee says the single-engine Cessna 170 crashed into trees shortly after taking off from the airport in Whitehorse on Monday afternoon. Lee says it happened about 600 metres from the end of the runway, and that there was a fire afterward. He says neither of the planes two occupants survived. The privately registered aircraft had been on its way to Anchorage, Alaska. A team of investigators with the TSB that is based in Edmonton will head to Whitehorse on Tuesday. Read more about: OTTAWACanadian politicians voted across party lines Tuesday to issue an unprecedented summons for Facebook executives Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg. Zuckerberg and Sandberg ignored a subpoena from the House of Commons ethics committee to testify on Facebooks Cambridge Analytica scandal Tuesday. In response, MPs voted unanimously to issue a standing summons for the two executives. If Zuckerberg or Sandberg step foot in Canada, they could face immediate summons to testify before the committee. We are very, very surprised that Mr. Zuckerberg and Ms. Sandberg decided to ignore the summons of a parliamentary committee, particularly as we have international representatives here, said NDP MP Charlie Angus. As far as I know, we were not even informed that he wasnt showing up. To me, Ive never seen a situation where a corporate head ignores a legal summons. Canada is hosting the international grand committee on data, privacy and democracy in Ottawa this week. The nine-country committee of parliamentarians was struck to examine the cross-border issues posed by tech and social media giants like Facebook, Twitter, and Google. MPs on the Canadian committee were in the dark Monday night after CNN reported Zuckerberg and Sandberg would ignore the committees original subpoena. In a statement Monday night, Facebook Canada offered no reason for the two executives decision to skip the committee. In their place, Facebook Canadas Kevin Chan and global policy director Neil Potts faced frustration and outright anger over Zuckerbergs absence. U.K. MP Jo Stevens noted members of the committee crossed the Atlantic to make it more convenient for Zuckerberg to testify, and said she was sick of sitting through platitudes from Facebooks representatives sent in the CEOs stead. Potts pushed back on the narrative that Zuckerberg and Sandberg were not taking the committee seriously, saying he and Chan had an explicit mandate to speak for the company and to work with the lawmakers. Conservative MP Bob Zimmer, who chairs the Canadian committee, called that unacceptable, noting the committee collectively represents roughly 400 million people. Read more about: MONTREALA Quebec judge said she hopes the voices of caregivers struggling to care for loved ones are heard as she sentenced a Montreal man who suffocated his Alzheimers-stricken wife with a pillow to two years less a day in jail. Michel Cadottes killing of Jocelyne Lizotte, 60, in her long-term care bed warranted a strong message, Superior Court Justice Helene Di Salvo said in a decision rendered late Tuesday. Whatever the motivation and even in the name of compassion the gesture must be denounced, Di Salvo said. But bigger societal questions surrounding support for caregivers, helplessness, life in long-term care and dealing with Alzheimers were all brought to the forefront in the case. The court is well aware that this case has raised passion in public opinion, Di Salvo said. As citizens, we can only hope that the alarming cries of the difficulties caregivers face, as well as the problem of the growing number of people with Alzheimers disease, will have been heard. The judge said determining a just sentence was her primary role, and neither the Crown nor the defence was able to find any jurisprudence that could guide her on sentencing. A jury found Cadotte guilty of manslaughter last Feb. 23 in the death of his wife of 19 years. Lizotte, 60, was in the late stages of Alzheimers disease and was unable to speak or care for herself. But a doctor testified she was not considered to be at the end of her life and was receiving care to keep her comfortable under the circumstances. Cadotte, 58, was clearly in love with Jocelyne Lizotte, Di Salvo said, but by taking her life on Feb. 20, 2017 at the long-term care facility where she was being treated, he committed the irreparable. He caused the suffocation death of the woman he loved, and contrary to what any one might say, this does not make him a hero. In addition to the jail time, to be served in a provincial facility, Cadotte will also have three years of probation and 240 hours of community service to complete once hes released. The sentence, which is on top of 205 days Cadotte spent in preventive custody before the trial, fell well short of what the Crown had recommended. The Crown had sought an eight-year prison term, citing the vulnerability of the victim and the violent nature of her death. Prosecutor Antonio Parapuf had little to say about the sentence but noted the judge repeatedly mentioned the need to send a message. Of course at this step, we will take time to analyze all the different criteria and all the different steps taken by the judge before rendering our decision (on an appeal), Parapuf said. Our thoughts go towards the family of the victim, and now we will take time to explain everything to them. Defence lawyers Elfriede Duclervil and Nicolas Welt had recommended a sentence of between six and 12 months, which could have meant no additional time behind bars. Instead, Cadotte who was free on bail during the trial, was led away in handcuffs by court constables. We are sad. We are disappointed, because obviously we asked for much less, Duclervil said, noting the judge took into consideration the unique facts of the case. She came up with two years minus one day, so were going to have live with that, Duclervil added. And hopefully ... the family will start to grieve, but as a society, look around. Its said that one out of four people face the same challenges. Its not Michel alone. Cadotte had cared for his wife for nine years, struggling to keep her out of care until relenting in 2013. Depressed and recovering from a weekend of heavy drinking, he testified that on the day of the killing he was saddened to see Lizotte with her neck bent, sitting in a geriatric chair without a specialized head rest. He cried as he struggled to feed her lunch and then tried to place a pillow under her head. Cadotte said he couldnt explain what happened, but after a couple of failed attempts, he placed the pillow over her face and smothered her. She was suffering too much, Cadotte testified. I didnt want her to suffer anymore. I was suffering for her. The trial heard that Cadotte struggled to provide care as his wifes Alzheimers worsened, and a year before he killed her he inquired about a medically assisted death. But he was told that Lizotte was not eligible because she was not considered to be at the end of life and she lacked the ability to give consent. Di Salvo noted that lawmakers took care in restricting medically assisted dying, and members of society cannot take justice into their own hands. At sentencing, Lizottes adult sons and her younger brother held Cadotte accountable, believing he acted in his own interest. But one of Lizottes sisters, testifying for the defence, said she understood why Cadotte acted as he did. The crime had been framed in the media as a compassion killing an offence that doesnt exist in the Criminal Code. If we can understand that the situation in which Mr. Cadotte found himself could have led to the fateful gesture, it remains that, in the eyes of law, this gesture cannot be excused, Di Salvo said. To unlawfully cause the death of a human being will always constitute a reprehensible act, which must be punished. Read more about: MONTREALThe son of a Quebec man who has been jailed on fraud-related charges in the Middle East says his father is in the process of being extradited from Oman to the United Arab Emirates. Alexis Gauthier says his father, Andre, has left the prison where he was being held in Oman and is expected to be transferred early tomorrow back to Dubai, where he is facing charges related to an alleged $30-million fraud. Andre Gauthiers family and lawyers have appealed to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to repatriate Gauthier, saying he faces potential human rights violations and has little chance of a fair trial in the United Arab Emirates. They describe the 65-year-old Quebecer as a whistleblower who alerted authorities to irregular dealings in a gold-trading company he was involved with. They say he was blamed for the fraud after the real perpetrators left the country. Alexis Gauthier says his father is in good spirits and is encouraged by Canadians support, and the family isnt giving up on bringing him home. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said today that his government was concerned about Gauthiers case and would continue to follow it, but did not give further details. Read more about: REGINASaskatchewan residents no longer have limits on how much alcohol they can bring home from other provinces for personal use. The government says most provinces have some restrictions when it comes to the interprovincial movement of liquor. Jeremy Harrison, minister of trade and export development, says the government is committed to erasing unnecessary trade barriers between provinces. He says lifting restrictions is part of a broader discussion other provinces have had over trade. People buying alcohol from other provinces and bringing it into Saskatchewan has been happening for years, Harrison says. The Alberta borders an hour away from where I live. I would suspect that you would find most citizens didnt even know there was a restriction on personal importation limits already, he said Tuesday. We actually have tried to find the last prosecution for over-limit importation and we cant actually find one. Previously, Saskatchewan residents could bring in nine litres of wine, three litres of spirits and just under 25 litres of beer, coolers or a combination of the two. Alberta, Nova Scotia and Manitoba have also eliminated restrictions on how much personal booze people can bring into those provinces. Harrison believes the change will have a minimal impact on Saskatchewans economy. Toronto police have arrested a 46-year-old man for allegedly sexually assaulting multiple teenage boys in his Markland Wood home in a series of incidents dating back to 2015. The man was first arrested on April 24 for allegedly sexually assaulting three teen boys in his home near Bloor St. W. and Mill Rd. between 2015 and 2019, police said Monday in a news release. On May 22, he was arrested again and charged with sexually assaulting a 17-year-old boy at his residence between November 2016 and April 2019. Following the April 24 arrest, police allege the man indirectly contacted one of the victims in violation of his release conditions. Derek Nyilas, 46, of Toronto, has been charged with four counts of sexual assault, four counts of sexual interference, two counts of sexual exploitation and one count of householder permitting sexual activity to a person under 18 in relation to the April 24 arrest. He has also been charged with attempting to obstruct justice and failing to comply with recognizance over the May 22 arrest. He is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday. The investigation was conducted by members of the Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, a team of specialized child abuse investigators in collaboration local child welfare organizations. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-2922 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477). A Peel police officer is facing criminal breach of trust charges for allegedly misusing police computer databases. The charges follow an 11-month investigation into the unauthorized use of police databases to perform searches on members of the public and the subsequent contacting of those members, Peel police said in a news release. Const. Sean Duggan was arrested by the Peel Regional Police Professional Standards Bureau on Tuesday. He has been charged with three counts of breach of trust and one count for unauthorized use of a computer. Duggan, who has been with the service for 16 years, has been suspended with pay under the Police Services Act, police said. We investigate these things very seriously. It doesnt happen overnight, Peel spokesperson Sgt. Joe Cardi told the Star. Peel police Chief Chris McCord said hes committed to maintaining transparency about allegations of police misconduct. We have a very strict policy about accessing police databases and systems, McCord said in the release. Our officers are bound by that policy and as soon as the complaint was received through the Professional Standards Bureau, I ordered an investigation into the conduct of the officer. Duggan is scheduled to appear in a Brampton court on July 8. This isnt the first time Duggan has faced charges relating to his professional conduct. In 2017, the veteran officer pleaded guilty at a police tribunal after admitting to starting a personal relationship with a woman about 45 days after he charged her with inappropriately lenient traffic offences following a 2014 stop. Duggan was demoted from first-class constable to second-class constable for 16 months and ordered to complete remedial training. Temur Durrani is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Stars radio room in Toronto. Follow him on Twitter: @temurdur Read more about: Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer speaks about his economic vision at an event hosted by the Canadian Club of Vancouver, in Vancouver, on Friday May 24, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck The police stormed the Toronto apartment during breakfast. Teenaged Velma Demerson and her fiance, Harry Yip, were still in their pyjamas. Thats her, barked Demersons agitated father who arrived on the scene with the two constables to identify his wayward daughter. Demerson, 18 and pregnant, was taken away in a police car, arrested because she was a Caucasian woman consorting with a Chinese man. It was May of 1939 and pre-war Toronto attitudes toward ethnicity, poverty and sexuality meant a woman could lose her freedom if she was deemed immoral by authorities or even her family. Demerson would spend the next 10 months incarcerated because shed fallen in love with the wrong man. An outspoken link to that era, Demerson died on May 13 at a Vancouver hospital. She was 98, and had been battling throat cancer. More than 60 years after being whisked away by police, Demerson who would become an author, social activist and frequent school lecturer won an apology from the Ontario government for herself, her husband and son Harry Jr. for the way they were treated. It was a really racist society, Demerson once recalled of pre-war Toronto. We were ostracized. We just walked on certain streets, not in the better places, so to speak, because people would look at you And they always look at the woman and figure shes an immoral character. The Great Depression still lingered during that uneasy spring of 1939 and the drumbeats of a coming world war were unmistakable. Demerson lived with her divorced mother in a Church St. rooming house. Mom ran the home, accommodating anyone including sex workers, and also read tea leaves in the parlour as Madam Alice. Velma met a handsome waiter at a Yonge St. cafe repeatedly dropping her cutlery until he took notice and she came to enjoy the relative tranquillity of his Walton St. room. It wasnt long before they were living together there. When Demersons father, a restaurateur in Saint John, N.B., learned of this, he took a train to seek help from the Toronto police. Demerson said her dad considered it a disgrace that she planned to marry a Chinese immigrant and worse, provide him with a Chinese grandchild. Read more: Woman jailed for living with her boyfriend in 1939 She stole a blanket and was trapped in a home for wayward girls Vancouver apologizes to Chinese Canadians for discrimination A provincial law at the time, the Female Refuges Act of 1897, made Demerson vulnerable. Promiscuity, being illegitimately pregnant and consorting willingly with a Chinese man were all punishable with imprisonment under the broad strokes of the act. Anyone could make a charge against a woman between 15 and 35 who was suspected of leading an idle or dissolute life and judges need only make reasonable inquiry into the truth. The law also allowed a parent to have a daughter under 21 brought before a judge if she was unmanageable. If she was deemed incorrigible she could be confined in an industrial refuge, a place typically operated by religious groups, to work and receive moral recalibrating. Picked up in Yips room, Demerson was whisked to Old City Hall court. There, without being offered a lawyer, she told a judge she was three months pregnant and planned to marry Yip. She hoped that might ease the situation. It did the opposite. After a week at the Don Jail, she was sentenced to a year at Belmont Home, a workhouse in Yorkville where the women did laundry, without pay, for the citys hospitals. Because she was expecting, Demerson was mostly tasked with light housekeeping. Six weeks later, Belmont closed and 47 women were moved to Andrew Mercer Reformatory, Canadas first womens prison, where they were locked up for 12 hours each night, in cramped, cockroach-infested, windowless cells with a pail for a toilet. During the day, the inmates, some as young as 14, worked in a sewing factory and were only allowed to converse for 30 minutes after lunch and an hour at night. Not only were the women treated like hardened criminals at Mercer, Demerson says she was given unknown injections and subject to frequent gynecological exams. The prisons female doctor was a eugenicist who believed disease could be eradicated by maintaining the purity of Anglo-Saxon stock and sterilizing the morally defective and unfit. Demerson also had her newborn baby taken from her, and placed in a hospital, until her release some 10 months into her sentence. Its a well-hidden, ugly story about our past in Canada, says Vancouver filmmaker Karin Lee, who is making a documentary about Demerson, noting that there were people in positions of power that actively worked to block the mixing of races in the country. Today, you cant imagine that would be a criminal act and that only women would be incarcerated, says Lee, who is crowdfunding to finish the film. After her release, Demersons life unfolded like a sweeping epic. At one point, she moved her son to Hong Kong to escape discrimination here. She followed him and taught English. Under financial stress in Asia, she sent Harry Jr. home to his father, who she had married in 1940. But when she came home the boy was a ward of Childrens Aid. Demerson and Yip divorced. Still feeling ostracized in Toronto, Demerson started a new life in British Columbia, where she remarried, took her husbands surname of Lakes, and started a new family. When her son opted to remain with a foster family in Ontario, she was devastated. Harry Jr. died at the age of 26 when he suffered an asthma attack while swimming alone. Although Demersons marriage to Yip didnt last, shed lost her rights as a Canadian by marrying an alien. Women who married a non-Canadian were deemed to assume their husbands citizenship. Demerson remained stateless until 2004, when she became a Canadian citizen. After separating from her second husband, Demerson raised a daughter and son as a single parent in Vancouver. She also took secretarial courses and began working in law offices. She could easily have been forgotten in Ontario. But in the late 1980s, at 67 she returned to Toronto to research documents about her young life and her hazy past. The more research she did, the more angry she got over what happened to her, said Lee. A four-foot-11 dynamo driven to seek justice, she connected with paralegal Harry Kopyto, who helped her develop a strategy to seek redress. Kopyto determined that the Ontario government had exceeded its jurisdiction by instituting a criminal law with such severe punishment. (The Female Refuges Act was abolished in 1964.) In her fight for an apology, Kopyto says Demerson became a cause celebre beyond imagination backed by human rights groups, prisoner advocacy foundations, feminists, politicians, academics and the Chinese community. The Ontario government finally caved, he said, settling out of court. In 2002, Ontario attorney general David Young issued an apology to Demerson for being unjustifiably incarcerated and for its adverse effects on her, Yip and their late son. Demerson also filed an $11-million suit against the province and received an undisclosed settlement. Kopyto says her primary goal was to clear the dark mark off her reputation. This thing had burned away at her for half a century and she needed to put it to peace, said Kopyto. She felt completely vindicated. She became energized and renewed in her interest to help other people who were treated the way she was as well as others who were facing different problems because of government action or inaction. In 2018, Don Chapman, founder of the advocacy group Lost Canadians, arranged for Demerson to meet Vancouver Centre MP Hedy Fry and two other federal politicians. Fry warmly clutched Demersons right hand in both of hers and said: I bring you the apology from the government of Canada for taking away your citizenship, for having been imprisoned Demerson wrote the book Incorrigible, an unflinching and moving account of her life, in 2004. At 97, she finished Nazis in Canada, a self-published satirical novel based on her experiences at Belmont House and the Mercer Reformatory. In her later years, Demerson became a tireless advocate for social justice. She spoke often at schools and community gatherings about human rights and recounted how her life was affected by racism and oppressive government policies. At the age of 95, she moved back to Toronto on her own finding an apartment on Craigs List and did more archival research into how the inmates were treated at Mercer (near King and Dufferin Sts., where Lamport Stadium now stands), which had been shut down and demolished in 1969. A 1964 grand jury investigation found abhorrent conditions at the prison including hidden basement cells used for solitary confinement. Demerson also continued to lobby both the provincial and federal governments to apologize to every woman affected by the Female Refuges Act. Thats the kind of person she was, said Lee, the filmmaker. She was an activist and she knew the apology to one person wasnt right. Demerson moved back to Vancouver early in 2018, but her daughter Sylvia Lakes said she continued searching for former Mercer inmates she might help. She never gave up right until the end, she was always writing to somebody, said Lakes. I think that her purpose was to take the government to task, making them accountable (and) to admit the wrongs done to women in the past. Read more about: A frustrated man who accused a judge of corruption and obstruction of justice then refused repeated orders to behave himself in court has been jailed for three days for contempt. In imposing the sentence, Divisional Court Justice David Corbett said cdeserved two or three weeks behind bars but drew leniency for personal reasons. Wantonly accusing a judge of impropriety because he disagrees with the judges decision is a clear hallmark of an irrational litigant, Corbett said. The court will not accept the defiant, rude, contemptuous conduct he has shown in this matter, and that recurrent conduct of this type could well attract a substantially lengthier sentence. The case arose in 2006 when Toronto police used a stun gun on Lochners mentally disabled brother at the family home. Since then, the Lochners have sought redress, without success. Their attempts included a civil lawsuit settled over their objections with the agency that helps protects the interest of mentally vulnerable people which saw another brother charged with assaulting a lawyer in court. They sought criminal charges against the officers. They wanted the officers disciplined. None of their actions succeeded. At a recent hearing, Lochner refused to answer Corbetts questions, court records show. He complained the judge would not let him speak. When he did speak, he complained the judge was not listening. He provided a running commentary on how Corbett was running the hearing. He tried to cross-examine the judge. Lochner calmed down only when Corbett ordered him handcuffed under threat of a contempt citation. He promised to behave. That didnt happen. Corbett cited him for contempt and ordered him arrested. Corbett said he understood the family was upset and angry over the Tasering and their failure to get what they wanted by way of redress. At the same time, the judge said the various issues had been properly considered and decided. They have done everything that they can do (and) it is time for them to move on, Corbett said. It is time that they understood that the courts restraint in the face of misconduct in the courtroom is at an end. In his ruling, the judge characterized Lochner as a vexatious and abusive litigant and severely curtailed his access to the courts in respect to his brothers Tasering. The only exception would be for whatever legitimate appeal rights Lochner might have. On sentencing him to three days in jail, the judge said the calculated and sustained contemptuous treatment of the court deserved a stiffer penalty but said he accepted that Lochners mother was on her death bed and that he had day-to-day responsibility for his disabled brother. It would be a particular hardship for him to serve additional prison time now, Corbett said, adding Lochner should not misconstrue the relative leniency as an endorsement of his behaviour. Toronto police have been using facial recognition technology for more than a year a tool police say increases the speed and efficiency of criminal investigations and has led to arrests in major crimes including homicides. But the emerging technology which relies on artificial intelligence has generated enough privacy and civil liberty concerns that the city of San Francisco, worried about police and state overreach, recently became the first U.S. city to ban the tool. Toronto police say that facial recognition technology is being used to compare images of potential suspects captured on public or private cameras to its internal database of approximately 1.5 million mugshots. According to a report submitted by Chief Mark Saunders to the Toronto police services board, the technology is generating leads in investigations, particularly as a growing number of crimes are being captured on video through surveillance cameras. Since the system was purchased in March 2018 at a cost $451,718 plus annual maintenance and support fees officers have conducted 2,591 facial recognition searches. The report was submitted in advance of Thursdays board meeting. The goal of purchasing the system was to identify suspects more efficiently and quickly, including violent offenders. It will also help police conclude major investigations with fewer resources and help tackle unsolved crimes, Saunders said. Funding for the system was provided through a provincial policing modernization grant. But critics are wary of facial recognition technology for reasons including its potential to be misused by police or other government agencies as technological advancements outpace oversight. Read more: Toronto police tight-lipped on details around acquisition of controversial surveillance tool U of T researchers design algorithm that dupes facial recognition detectors Opinion | Heather Mallick: Fight for your digital privacy This technology is being put in place without any legislative oversight and we need to hit the pause button, NDP MP Charlie Angus told the Star on Monday. The technology is moving extremely fast, said Angus, who is examining the ethics of artificial intelligence as part of a House of Commons Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics. In San Francisco, city officials banned the use of the technology by police and other agencies earlier this month, citing concerns about potential misuse by government authorities. The citys police department had previously been using the tool, but stopped in 2017. One of the city legislators told reporters that the move was about having security without becoming a security state. According to Saunders report, Toronto police ran 1,516 facial recognition searches between March and December last year, using approximately 5,000 still and video images. The system was able to generate potential mugshot matches for about 60 per cent of those images. About 80 per cent of those matches led to the identification of criminal offenders. The total number of arrests the technology has generated is undetermined, the report states, because unlike fingerprint matches, the facial recognition tool only identifies potential candidates and arrests are made only after further investigation produces more evidence. Many investigations were successfully concluded due to the information provided to investigators, including four homicides, multiple sexual assaults, a large number of armed robberies and numerous shooting and gang related crimes, Saunders wrote. Other jurisdictions have come under fire for using facial recognition on crowds in real-time, such as scanning attendees at major sports events to identify the subjects of outstanding warrants and arrest them on the spot. In emailed responses to questions by the Star, Staff Inspector Stephen Harris, Forensic Identification Services, said Toronto police have no plans to extend the use of facial recognition technology beyond comparisons to its pre-existing mugshot database. Harris and Saunders both emphasized that Toronto police does not use real-time facial recognition and has no legal authorization to do so. Have your say Last year, Toronto police used the technology during their investigation into serial killer Bruce McArthur. Investigators located what they believed was a post-mortem image of an unknown man on McArthurs computer. Hoping to identify him, they used the software and found, within their police database, a mugshot image of Dean Lisowick. In documents filed with the courts during the McArthur probe, an investigator notes that there were undeniable physical similarities between the two images, including distinctive moles. A relative of Lisowicks later confirmed the match, and police charged McArthur in Lisowicks death three days later. Canadians need to have a discussion about what are legitimate uses of the technology and what arent, said Angus. Police using the technology to identify someone caught committing a crime on surveillance footage is reasonable, Angus said, but measures need to be put in place to stop what is determined to be unacceptable use, such as real-time monitoring at a rally. Research has shown that facial recognition technology has racialized false positive rates: some systems are more likely to produce an inaccurate match for Black women than white men, for example. This strikes me as particularly important, given all the concerns around carding and other kinds of ethnic and racialized surveillance that have taken place by TPS in the past, said Chris Parsons, research associate at the University of Torontos Citizen Lab. Asked by the Star about its false positive rate overall and for different racial and ethnic groups, Harris said that Toronto police does not use facial recognition to make a positive ID. Suspect identifications are only made after further investigation and evidence leads us to that conclusion. Civil liberties advocates also appreciated that Toronto police were disclosing details about their facial recognition technology, but wondered why it took so long. The force began a year-long pilot project for the technology in September, 2014, and sent four forensic officers for training at an FBI division in West Virginia before that. The fact that there has been very little virtually no public conversation about the fact that this is happening, despite the fact that theyve been looking into it for at least the past five years ... raises questions for me, says Brenda McPhail, director of the privacy, technology and surveillance project at the Canadian Civil Liberties Association. Being open and accountable and transparent about the ways that new surveillance technologies are being integrated into municipal policing is essential to maintaining public trust, and to enable the kinds of conversations that can help Toronto police understand the concerns of city residents. Saunders report also says that the force conducted a Privacy Impact Assessment for the technology in 2017. The system is only used in criminal investigations, and the only officers with access to it are six FBI-trained personnel. No other databases besides lawfully obtained mugshots are used. Calgary Police Service was the first Canadian force to begin using the technology. In 2014, it signed a contract for its facial recognition software and said the technology would be used as an investigative tool to compare photos and videos from video surveillance against the services roughly 300,000 mugshot images. Asked if images captured by Toronto polices body-worn cameras could be used with the facial recognition system, Harris said investigators could only do so if a suspect was on camera committing a criminal offence. In that case, investigators would still have to get the courts permission to use the facial technology during the probe. The Toronto police board is scheduled to hear discussion of Saunders report Thursday. With Star files Read more about: WASHINGTONPresident Donald Trump has rolled back environmental regulations, pulled the United States out of the Paris climate accord, brushed aside dire predictions about the effects of climate change, and turned the term global warming into a punch line rather than a prognosis. Now, after two years spent unravelling the policies of his predecessors, Trump and his political appointees are launching a new assault. In the next few months, the White House will complete the rollback of the most significant federal effort to curb greenhouse-gas emissions, initiated during the Obama administration. It will expand its efforts to impose Trumps hard-line views on other nations, building on his retreat from the Paris accord and his recent refusal to sign a communique to protect the rapidly melting Arctic region unless it was stripped of any references to climate change. And, in what could be Trumps most consequential action yet, his administration will seek to undermine the very science on which climate change policy rests. Trump is less an ideologue than an armchair naysayer about climate change, according to people who know him. He came into office viewing agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency as bastions of what he calls the deep state, and his contempt for their past work on the issue is an animating factor in trying to force them to abandon key aspects of the methodology they use to try to understand the causes and consequences of a dangerously warming planet. As a result, parts of the federal government will no longer fulfil what scientists say is one of the most urgent jobs of climate science studies: reporting on the future effects of a rapidly warming planet and presenting a picture of what the Earth could look like by the end of the century if the global economy continues to emit heat-trapping carbon dioxide pollution from burning fossil fuels. The attack on science is underway throughout the government. In the most recent example, the White House-appointed director of the U.S. Geological Survey, James Reilly, a former astronaut and petroleum geologist, has ordered that scientific assessments produced by that office use only computer-generated climate models that project the impact of climate change through 2040, rather than through the end of the century, as had been done previously. Scientists say that would give a misleading picture because the biggest effects of current emissions will be felt after 2040. Models show that the planet will most likely warm at about the same rate through about 2050. From that point until the end of the century, however, the rate of warming differs significantly with an increase or decrease in carbon emissions. The administrations prime target has been the National Climate Assessment, produced by an interagency task force roughly every four years since 2000. Government scientists used computer-generated models in their most recent report to project that if fossil fuel emissions continue unchecked, the Earths atmosphere could warm by as much as 8 degrees Fahrenheit by the end of the century. That would lead to drastically higher sea levels, more devastating storms and droughts, crop failures, food losses and severe health consequences. Work on the next report, which is expected to be released in 2021 or 2022, has already begun. But from now on, officials said, such worst-case scenario projections will not automatically be included in the National Climate Assessment or in some other scientific reports produced by the government. What we have here is a pretty blatant attempt to politicize the science to push the science in a direction thats consistent with their politics, said Philip Duffy, president of the Woods Hole Research Center, who served on a National Academy of Sciences panel that reviewed the governments most recent National Climate Assessment. It reminds me of the Soviet Union. In an email, James Hewitt, spokesman for the Environmental Protection Agency, defended the proposed changes. The previous use of inaccurate modelling that focuses on worst-case emissions scenarios, that does not reflect real-world conditions, needs to be thoroughly re-examined and tested if such information is going to serve as the scientific foundation of nationwide decision-making now and in the future, Hewitt said. However, the goal of political appointees in the Trump administration is not just to change the climate assessments methodology, which has broad scientific consensus, but also to question its conclusions by creating a new climate review panel. That effort is led by a 79-year-old physicist who had a respected career at Princeton but has become better known in recent years for attacking the science of man-made climate change and for defending the virtues of carbon dioxide sometimes to an awkward degree. The demonization of carbon dioxide is just like the demonization of the poor Jews under Hitler, said the physicist, William Happer, who serves on the National Security Council as the presidents deputy assistant for emerging technologies. Happers proposed panel is backed by John Bolton, the presidents national security adviser, who brought Happer into the NSC after an earlier effort to recruit him during the transition. Happer and Bolton are both beneficiaries of Robert and Rebekah Mercer, the far-right billionaire and his daughter who have funded efforts to debunk climate science. The Mercers gave money to a super PAC affiliated with Bolton before he entered government and to an advocacy group headed by Happer. Climate scientists are dismissive of Happer; his former colleagues at Princeton are chagrined. And several White House officials including Larry Kudlow, the presidents chief economic adviser have urged Trump not to adopt Happers proposal, on the grounds that it would be perceived as a White House attack on science. Even Steve Bannon, the former White House strategist who views Happer as the climate hustlers worst nightmare a world-class physicist from the nations leading institution of advanced learning, who does not suffer fools gladly, is apprehensive about what Happer is trying to do. The very idea will start a holy war on cable before 2020, he said. Better to win now and introduce the study in the second inaugural address. But at a White House meeting May 1, at which the skeptical advisers made their case, Trump appeared unpersuaded, people familiar with the meeting said. Happer, they said, is optimistic that the panel will go forward. The concept is not new. Trump has pushed to resurrect the idea of a series of military-style exercises, known as red team, blue team debates, on the validity of climate science first promoted by Scott Pruitt, the EPA administrator who was forced to resign in 2018 amid multiple scandals. At the time, the idea was shot down by then-White House Chief of Staff John Kelly. But since Kellys departure, Trump has talked about using Happers proposed panel as a forum for it. For Trump, climate change is often the subject of mockery. Wouldnt be bad to have a little of that good old fashioned Global Warming right now! he posted on Twitter in January when a snowstorm was freezing much of the country. His views are influenced mainly by friends and donors like Carl Icahn, the New York investor who owns oil refineries, and oil-and-gas billionaire Harold Hamm both of whom pushed Trump to deregulate the energy industry. Trumps daughter Ivanka made a well-publicized effort to talk him out of leaving the Paris accord in 2017. But after being vanquished by officials including Bannon, Pruitt, former Attorney General Jeff Sessions and former White House counsel Don McGahn, there is little evidence she has resisted his approach since. The presidents advisers amplify his disregard. At the meeting of the eight-nation Arctic Council this month, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo dismayed fellow diplomats by describing the rapidly warming region as a land of opportunity and abundance because of its untapped reserves of oil, gas, uranium, gold, fish and rare-earth minerals. The melting sea ice, he said, was opening up new shipping routes. That is one of the most crude messages one could deliver, said R. Nicholas Burns, who served as the NATO ambassador under President George W. Bush. At the National Security Council under Bolton, officials said they had been instructed to strip references to global warming from speeches and other formal statements. But such political edicts pale in significance to the changes in the methodology of scientific reports. Reilly, head of the Geological Survey, who does not have a background in climate change science, characterized the changes as an attempt to prepare more careful, accurate reports. Were looking for answers with our partners and to get statistical significance from what we understand, he said. Yet scientists said that by eliminating the projected effects of increased carbon dioxide pollution after 2040, the Geological Survey reports would present an incomplete and falsely optimistic picture of the impact of continuing to burn unlimited amounts of coal, oil and gasoline. The models in these reports that show different outcomes are like going to the doctor, who tells you, If you dont change your bad eating habits, and you dont start to exercise, youll need a quadruple bypass, but if you do change your lifestyle, youll have a different outcome, said Katharine Hayhoe, the director of the Climate Science Center at Texas Tech University and an author of the National Climate Assessment. Not all government science agencies are planning such changes. A spokesman for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, asked if its scientists would limit the use of climate models, wrote in an email, No changes are being considered at this time. The push to alter the results of at least some climate science reports, several officials said, came after Novembers release of the second volume of the National Climate Assessment. While the Trump administration did not try to rewrite the scientific conclusions of the report, officials sought to play it down releasing it the day after Thanksgiving and discredit it, with a White House statement calling it largely based on the most extreme scenario. Still, the report could create legal problems for Trumps agenda of abolishing regulations. This summer, the EPA is expected to finalize the legal rollback of two of President Barack Obamas most consequential policies: federal regulations to curb planet-warming pollution from vehicle tailpipes and power plant smokestacks. Opponents say that when they challenge the moves in court, they intend to point to the climate assessment, asking how the government can justify the reversals when its own agencies have concluded that the pollution will be so harmful. That is why officials are now discussing how to influence the conclusions of the next National Climate Assessment. Theyve started talking about how they can produce a report that doesnt lead to some silly alarmist predictions about the future, said Myron Ebell, who heads the energy program at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, an industry-funded research organization, and who led the administrations transition at the EPA. A key change, he said, would be to emphasize historic temperatures rather than models of future atmospheric temperatures, and to eliminate the worst-case scenarios of the effect of increased carbon dioxide pollution sometimes referred to as business as usual scenarios because they imply no efforts to curb emissions. Scientists said that eliminating the worst-case scenario would give a falsely optimistic picture. Nobody in the world does climate science like that, said Michael Oppenheimer, professor of geosciences and international affairs at Princeton. It would be like designing cars without seatbelts or airbags. Outside the United States, climate scientists had long given up on the White House being anything but an outlier in policy. But they worry about the loss of the government as a source for reliable climate research. It is very unfortunate and potentially even quite damaging that the Trump administration behaves this way, said Johan Rockstrom, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany. There is this arrogance and disrespect for scientific advancement this very demoralizing lack of respect for your own experts and agencies. Read more about: ALGIERS, Algeria - An Algerian human rights militant who went on a hunger strike after being jailed in March in the southern city of Ghardaia has died. The lawyer for Kamel Eddine Fekhar, a doctor in Ghardaia, which is where much of Algerias minority Mozabite population lives, said he died on Tuesday in a hospital in Blida, where he had been recently transferred. In a video on his Facebook page, lawyer Salah Dabouz said his clients death was foreseeable and noted the poor detention conditions that he had called to authorities attention. Fekhar, 52, was accused of provoking trouble to public order. His lawyer said he had done nothing wrong. Fekhar was known for his work on behalf of Algerias minority populations as well as Christians and followers of the small Ahmadi Muslim sect. MANAUS, Brazil - Brazilian officials said Tuesday up to 29 inmates blamed for killing sprees in several prisons will be transferred to stricter federal facilities, after two days of unrest left 55 prisoners dead and authorities rushing to prevent the violence from spreading. Fighting between inmates began around noon on Sunday in a prison complex in Manaus, the capital of the northern Amazonas state. The states governor, Wilson Lima, said the deaths were the result of infighting in one of the prisons criminal groups. We already had intelligence indicating there was a fissure between members of the same criminal fraction, Lima said in a press conference, without specifying which group. Drug trafficking and criminal gangs are able to run much of their day-to-day business from Brazils prisons, where they often have wide sway. Authorities frequently try to separate factions and transfer prisoners to prevent clashes. In the Manaus complex, an emergency security protocol was activated and within 45 minutes the situation was under control, local authorities said. Still, 15 inmates were killed, either asphyxiated or murdered with hand-crafted arms such as sharpened toothbrushes. The following day, more fights erupted in three other facilities, all in the same city of Manaus, leaving another 40 inmates dead and pushing federal authorities to send a special taskforce to avoid a scenario similar to that of January 2017, when weeks of gruesome prison killings left over 120 victims. Nine inmates who were transferred to federal facilities on Tuesday are believed to have ordered the killings, authorities said. It is unclear when the other 20 prisoners will be transferred to federal facilities. As a precautionary measure, another 200 prisoners have also been moved to different cells. While police forces were intervening to separate inmates considered at-risk, two detainees were shot as they tried to take prison staff hostage. As the troop advanced, they (inmates) were killing people choking them inside their cells, said Col. Vinicius Almeida, who leads the state prison office. Family members of inmates gathered outside the prisons, waiting for information on their loved ones. Some outside the Puraquequara Prison Unit, or UPP, on Tuesday told The Associated Press they heard people screaming and calling for help from within the facility Monday night. Im going to stand here until they give me some news, said Ediane Costa Soares, 38, whose 19-year-old son Anderson Soares de Souza, is an inmate at UPP. Her son does not appear on the list of victims, but Costa Soares wants reassurance of her sons well-being after the riots. They have not told us anything. Another woman, Ana Claudia Bonfim da Silva, was also seeking information about her husband, Marinaldo Chavier, serving a five-year sentence at UPP for robbery. Its not easy because they are treated like animals inside. But they are humans not dogs. They (authorities) should give them a job, make them work, but there is not anything like that, she said. Brazil has the worlds third-largest prison population, with more than 720,000 individuals behind bars, according to 2016 data from the online database World Prison Brief. Many facilities are severely overcrowded, up to three times more than its maximum capacity, leaving guards outnumbered. The Anisio Jobim Prison Complex, where 15 inmates died Sunday, was the scene of gruesome infighting two years ago that left 56 prisoners dead. Many of those victims had their heads cut off or their hearts and intestines ripped out. In a separate episode, 18 prisoners escaped Monday from a prison in the state of Goias. Officials from the prison said Tuesday they had captured six of the fugitives. Twenty members of the federal taskforce arrived in Manaus Tuesday for a period of 90 days, said state Gov. Lima in a press conference, adding that by the end of the week the number should rise to about 100 men. ___ AP video journalist Caivano reported from Manaus. AP journalist Jeantet reported from Rio de Janeiro. MEXICO CITY - Mexican authorities have frozen the bank accounts of Emilio Lozoya, the former head of Mexicos state-owned oil company, and those of steel maker Altos Hornos de Mexico, in what looks to be a major new push to punish alleged corruption. Altos Hornos de Mexico said later Tuesday in a statement that its president Alonso Ancira Elizondo was arrested in Spain for reasons it had not ascertained. The company said it was awaiting a response from Mexicos finance ministry to its request to release its accounts. The actions were illegal and arbitrary, the company said in its statement. The Financial Intelligence Unit said Monday that there were various transactions with funds that presumably did not come from legal activities in the frozen accounts and the funds are presumed to have originated in acts of corruption. Santiago Nieto, head of the unit, called the account freezes a hallmark of the new Finance Ministry. The policy of the Mexico government is zero tolerance for corruption and impunity, he wrote on Twitter. Lozoyas lawyers did not return calls for comment. Nieto was a top corruption investigator in the administration of former President Enrique Pena Nieto. But he was abruptly fired in 2017 in the middle of an investigation he led into Lozoyas dealings while head of state oil company Petroleos Mexicanos, or Pemex, also under Pena Nieto. Nieto has reopened the case in his new position in the administration of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who took office on Dec. 1 and vowed to stamp out endemic public corruption. Lozoya and Altos Hornos have been mentioned, but not charged, in corruption scandals involving Brazilian construction giant Odebrecht. The so-called Car Wash investigation into illicit payments by Odebrecht to government officials has led to multiple arrests and prosecutions in Latin American countries over the past five years, but none in Mexico. Mexico scored 28 out of 100 points in Transparency Internationals 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index, where a lower score indicates higher levels of corruption. That puts Mexico on par with Russia and behind countries such as Honduras and Bolivia on perceptions of clean business. Ricardo Alvarado, a researcher with non-profit Mexicans Against Corruption and Impunity, told The Associated Press that Mexico needs an emblematic case to send a strong signal to society that the government is serious about stemming corruption. Former Odebrecht officials have given evidence to Brazilian prosecutors implicating Lozoya in the companys bribery scandal. Lozoya has denied receiving bribes, though last week, the government banned Lozoya from holding public positions for 10 years. Altos Hornos, meanwhile, paid $3.7 million in 2014 to a company called Grangemouth, which it said was hired to advise on selection and pricing of equipment and to facilitate purchases of metallurgical coal to produce steel. Grangemouth has been identified as a possible shell company for Odebrecht. In a statement, Altos Hornos de Mexico SA called the freezing of its accounts without precedent, arbitrary and in violation of every right. The company said it employs more than 20,000 people and has thousands of suppliers. In a separate statement, AHMSA assured creditors that it would make its debt payments. The account freezes may stem from Pemexs decision to purchase fertilizer business Fertinal from AHMSA for $635 million in 2015, when Lozoya headed Pemex. Lopez Obrador has called the fertilizer plant junk and said that Pemex overpaid. Now the government must decide whether to put more money into the plant or bring in a private partner. I would very much like to re-establish fertilizer production, and for us to be self-sufficient, Lopez Obrador said Tuesday during his morning press conference. ___ This story replaces paragraph 13 to correct number to $3.7 million. MEXICO CITY - Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obradors flight to the west coast city of Tepic had nearly landed when the pilot pulled out due to crosswinds and landed a short time later. The president was flying aboard a commercial flight from bargain airline Volaris Tuesday from Mexico City. According to a statement from Volaris, the pilot followed protocol in aborting the landing when the crosswinds were detected. It said the manoeuvr was completely normal and safe. The airlines said the flight landed two minutes ahead of schedule. Upon arrival Lopez Obrador told reporters it happens and that it was nothing serious. Lopez Obrador is selling the presidential jet and flies commercial several times a week. He was attending a ceremony commemorating the centennial anniversary of the death of poet Amado Nervo. KAWASAKI, Japan - The Latest on a stabbing attack at a school bus stop in a city outside Tokyo (all times local): 7:30 p.m. The head of a Japanese school has condemned a savage knife attack on students waiting for a school bus in which a 6th grade student and a parent were killed, and said he is struggling to contain his anger. Tetsuro Saito, the head of Caritas Gakuen, told a news conference that My heart is broken with pain when I think of the innocent children and their parents who send their children to our school with love who were victimized by this savage act. Im struggling to fight back my anger. Saito said school officials will take steps to address safety concerns. Authorities say an 11-year-old girl and a parent of another student were killed and 17 others were injured Tuesday by an attacker carrying a knife in each hand. Most of the injured were students at the Catholic school. Police seized the attacker but he had slashed his own neck and was pronounced dead at a hospital. His motive wasnt immediately known. ___ 2:55 p.m. Japans Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has described a fatal stabbing spree near Tokyo as harrowing, adding that he is outraged and will take all necessary measures for childrens safety. Authorities say a man carrying a knife in each hand attacked schoolgirls waiting at a bus stop in Kawasaki, just outside Tokyo on Tuesday, wounding 16 people and leaving three dead, including himself. Most of the injured were schoolgirls at a Catholic school. Abe said: It was an extremely harrowing incident in which many small children were victimized, and I feel strong resentment... I will take all possible measures to protect the safety of children. The attack occurred as Abe hosted U.S. President Donald Trump. ___ 1:35 p.m. U.S. President Donald Trump has offered his sympathy to the victims of a mass stabbing attack just outside Japans capital. Trump is finishing a state visit to Japan and was on stage with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe when he made the comments about Tuesdays attack. He said: I want to take a moment to send our prayers and sympathy to the victims of the stabbing attack this morning in Tokyo. All Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieves for the victims and their families. An official at the Kawasaki city office told the AP that 16 people, most of them schoolgirls, were wounded and three others were believed killed, including the attacker. ___ 11:25 a.m. NHK TV in Japan is quoting police as saying the suspect in a knife attack that wounded at least 19 people at a bus stop just outside Tokyo has died. Police wouldnt publicly confirm the reports and it wasnt clear how many had died in Tuesdays attack. The local fire department told The Associated Press that one person had died. Some Japanese media outlets are reporting at least three deaths, while some are saying two, including the attacker. Reports said the attacker approached a group of children at the bus stop with a knife in each hand screaming I will kill you! ___ 9:05 a.m. Authorities say at least 16 people, including elementary school children, have been stabbed in an attack in Kawasaki, outside of Tokyo. One adult and one child have died. Fire officials tell the Kyodo news agency that a man has been detained in the attack. It wasnt immediately clear how serious the other injuries are. TOKYO - The Latest on President Donald Trumps visit to Japan (all times local): 1:05 p.m. President Donald Trump is on his way back to the United States after a four-day visit to Japan. Trump and first lady Melania Trump said goodbye to Japanese officials on a rain-slicked tarmac in Tokyo. During his stay, he met Japans new emperor and held serious discussions with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (shin-zoh AH-bay) about North Korea, Iran and trade. He and Abe also played golf and attended a sumo wrestling match. On Tuesday, Trump and first lady Melania Trump went aboard a Japanese destroyer to visit Japanese troops and then made a visit to the USS Wasp docked at the mouth of Tokyo Bay. Aboard the USS Wasp, Trump gave a Memorial Day speech to hundreds of members of the U.S. Navys 7th Fleet. ___ 11:55 a.m. President Donald Trump is giving Memorial Day remarks to more than 800 members of the U.S. military aboard the USS Wasp stationed in Japan. Trump called them the daring and mighty warriors in the Pacific Ocean. He says the U.S.-Japan alliance has never been stronger. Trump says the United States endures because of brave men and women who are willing to sacrifice to defend the nation. First lady Melania Trump introduced the president and the U.S. forces shouted U.S.A. U.S.A. A fighter plane, illuminated with red, white and blue lights, was parked nearby. Just before landing aboard the ship, he flew Marine One to a Japanese destroyer to meet with Japanese forces. ___ 11:15 a.m. President Donald Trump had an American-style greeting for Japanese forces when he saw them aboard their warship near Tokyo. Trump told them Happy Memorial Day! a message that seemed more fitting for Americans back home who were honouring those killed while defending the United States. Aboard the Japanese J.S. Kaga destroyer, Trump said, I want to start by saying happy Memorial Day. Also aboard were first lady Melania Trump, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his wife, Akie. It was the last day of Trumps four-day trip to Japan. After leaving the ship, he and Mrs. Trump flew by helicopter to their next stop aboard the USS Wasp, anchored nearby. ___ 10:55 a.m. President Donald Trump landed aboard a Japanese destroyer south of Tokyo, where he was greeted by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Japanese forces. Speaking on the deck of the J.S. Kaga docked at Yokosuka, Abe spoke of the strong alliance between the United States and Japan. Abe says the fact that he and Trump are standing together on the ship is evidence of the robust nature of that alliance. Trump, who was joined by first lady Melania Trump, thanked the Japanese forces and said they had been honoured to meet Japans new emperor and empress. He also sent condolences to those injured when a man swinging a knife attacked commuters waiting at a crowded bus stop on Tuesday just outside Tokyo, injuring 19 people. ___ 10:20 a.m. President Donald Trump will be heading home from Japan on Tuesday after stopping aboard a U.S. warship to give a Memorial Day speech to U.S. forces. Trump will land aboard on two vessels near a base in nearby Yokosuka. One is the Japanese destroyer J.S. Kaga where hell be joined by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The other is the USS Wasp, a multipurpose amphibious assault ship where hell deliver Memorial Day remarks to the troops. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako also are expected to visit with Trump and first lady Melania Trump. The U.S. honoured its fallen on Memorial Day on Monday. Trump has been criticized for skipping visits to cemeteries to honour U.S. troops, but he placed flags on graves in Arlington Cemetery last week before leaving for Japan. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 28) Blocks of illegal drugs amounting to over 200 million were recovered by three fishermen in Gubat, Sorsogon Monday. A report from police in Region 5 said fishermen Melvin Gregorio, Loubert Ergina, and John Mark Nabong discovered 12 boxes in a boat off the waters of Barangay Bagacay. The village chief reported the find to authorities who retrieved the boxes and handed them over to the PNP Crime Laboratory in Sorsogon for analysis. The contents were discovered to be cocaine. According to the PNP Crime Laboratory, the weight of the haul totaled 39 kilos, with a market value of 218.4 million. Authorities are now in charge of disposing the contraband. Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Assistant Regional Director Rogelito Daculla explained the disposal of recovered illegal drugs is done every year with necessary clearance from the national headquarters. TOKYO - President Donald Trump will be heading home from Japan Tuesday after stopping aboard a U.S. warship to give a Memorial Day speech to U.S. forces. Trump will land aboard on two vessels near a base in nearby Yokosuka. One is the Japanese destroyer J.S. Kaga where hell be joined by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The other is the USS Wasp, a multipurpose amphibious assault ship where hell deliver Memorial Day remarks to the troops. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako also are expected to visit with Trump and first lady Melania Trump. The U.S. honoured its fallen on Memorial Day on Monday. Trump has been criticized for skipping visits to cemeteries to honour U.S. troops, but he placed flags on graves in Arlington Cemetery last week before leaving for Japan. NAMCHE, Nepal - Scaling Mount Everest was a dream few realized before Nepal opened its side of the mountain to commercial climbing a half-century ago. This year the government issued a record number of permits, leading to traffic jams on the worlds highest peak that likely contributed to the greatest death toll in four years. As the allure of Everest grows, so have the crowds, with inexperienced climbers faltering on the narrow passageway to the peak and causing deadly delays, veteran climbers said. After 11 people died this year, Nepal tourism officials have no intention of restricting the number of permits issued, instead encouraging even more tourists and climbers to come for both pleasure and fame, said Mohan Krishna Sapkota, secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation. Nepal, one of the worlds poorest countries, relies on the climbing industry to bring in $300 million each year. It doesnt cap the number of permits it issues or control the pace or timing of the expeditions, leaving that to tour operators and guides who take advantage of brief clear weather conditions whenever they come, leading to pileups near the peak. On May 22, a climber snapped a photo from a line with dozens of hikers in colorful winter gear that snaked into the sky. Climbers were crammed crampon-to-crampon along a sharp-edged ridge above South Col, with a 7,000-foot (2,000-meter) drop on either side, all clipped onto a single line of rope, trudging toward the top of the world and risking death as each minute ticked by. Eric Murphy, a mountain guide from Bellingham, Washington poses for a photograph in Kathmandu, Nepal, Tuesday, May 28, 2019. Every minute counts there, said Murphy, who climbed Everest for a third time on May 23. He said what should have taken 12 hours took 17 hours because of struggling climbers who were clearly exhausted but had no one to guide or help them. Seasoned mountaineers say the Nepal governments failure to limit the number of climbers on Mount Everest has resulted in dangerous overcrowding and a greater number of deaths. There were more people on Everest than there should be, said Kul Bahadur Gurung, general secretary of the Nepal Mountaineering Association, an umbrella group of all expedition operators in Nepal. We lack the rules and regulations that say how many people can actually go up and when. The death toll this season is the highest since 2015. Most of those who died are believed to have suffered from altitude sickness, which is caused by low amounts of oxygen at high elevation and can cause headaches, vomiting, shortness of breath and mental confusion. Once only accessible to well-heeled elite mountaineers, Nepals booming climbing market has driven down the cost of an expedition, opening Everest up to hobbyists and adventure-seekers. Nepal requires climbers to have a doctors note deeming them physically fit, but not to prove their stamina at such extreme heights. Because of the altitude, climbers have just hours to reach the top before they are at risk of a pulmonary edema, when the lungs fill with liquid. From Camp Four at 8,000 metres (26,240 feet) to the 8,850-meter (29,035-foot) peak, the final push on Everest is known as the death zone. The conditions are so intense at such times that when a person dies, no one can afford to expend energy on carrying the body down from the mountain. Every minute counts there, said Eric Murphy, a mountain guide from Bellingham, Washington, who climbed Everest for a third time on May 23. He said what should have taken 12 hours took 17 hours because of struggling climbers who were clearly exhausted but had no one to guide or help them. Just a handful of inexperienced climbers, he said, is enough to have a profound effect. The deaths this year on Nepals side of the mountain included Don Cash, a sales executive from Utah, and Christopher Kulish, an attorney from Colorado, who both died on their way down from the peak. Kulish, 62, had just reached the top with a small group after crowds of climbers congested the peak last week, according to his brother, Mark Kulish. He described his brother as an attorney who was an inveterate climber of peaks in Colorado, the West and the world over. Just before he died, Kulish made it into the so-called Seven Summit Club of mountaineers who have reached the highest peaks on every continent, his brother said. Cash, 55, collapsed at the summit and was given CPR and massages by his two Sherpa guides. He got up only to fall again in the same way at Hillary Step, the first cliff face down from the summit. His body was left near there. Cash had said on his LinkedIn page that he left his job as a sales executive to try to join the seven summits club. Nepal doesnt have any regulations to determine how many permits should be issued, so anyone with a doctors note can obtain one for an $11,000 fee, Sapkota said. This year, permits were issued to 381 people in 44 teams, the highest number ever, according to the government. They were accompanied by an equal number of guides from Nepals ethnic Sherpa community. Some climbers were originally issued permits in 2014 that were revoked mid-season when 16 Sherpa guides died in an avalanche and other Sherpas, whose support as guides and porters is essential, effectively went on strike. Another factor was Chinas limit on the number of permits it issued this year for routes in its territory on the north side of Everest for a clean-up. Both the north and south sides of the mountain are littered with empty oxygen canisters, food packaging and other debris. Instead of the overcrowding, Sapkota blamed the weather, equipment and inadequate supplemental oxygen for this years deaths. There has been concern about the number of climbers on Mount Everest but it is not because of the traffic jam that there were casualties, Sapkota said in Namche, the town that serves as the staging area for Everest trips. Still, he said, In the next season we will work to have double rope in the area below the summit so there is better management of the flow of climbers. Mirza Ali, a Pakistani mountaineer and tour company owner who reached Everests peak for the first time this month, on his fourth attempt, said such an approach was flawed. Everybody wants to stand on top of the world, but tourists unprepared for the extremes of Everest endanger the entire industry, he said. There is not a sufficient check on issuing the permits, Ali said. The more people come, the more permits, more business. But on the other side it is a lot of risk because it is costing lives. Indian climber Ameesha Chauhan, soaking her frostbitten toes in medicine at a hospital in Kathmandu, described the agony of turning away from the peak when she realized her supplemental oxygen supply was low. Two of her team members died on the May 16 ascent. She returned and scaled the peak a week later. If you look at it, the inexperienced climbers do not even know how to tie on the oxygen masks around their face, she said. Many climbers are too focused on reaching the summit. ___ Associated Press researcher Chonchui Ngashangva in New Delhi contributed to this report. ___ Gurubacharya reported from Kathmandu, Nepal, and Schmall reported from New Delhi. KABUL - Afghan officials say two Taliban attacks targeted Afghan security checkpoints in the countrys west and east, killing at least 23 members of the security forces. In western Ghor province, Abdul Hai Khateby, the governors spokesman, says 18 policemen and pro-government militiamen were killed and seven were wounded in hours-long gunbattle with insurgents near Feroz Koh, the provincial capital. No group immediately took responsibility for the attack late Monday. In eastern Logar province, Mohammad Naser Ghairat, a provincial councilman, says insurgents overran an army checkpoint in the district of Baraki Barak on Monday, killing five soldiers there. Ghairat says four soldiers were also wounded while the Taliban captured four others. He says the insurgents stole a Humvee and ammunition from the checkpoint. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the Logar attack. BERLIN - The creator of a photo exhibit of Holocaust survivors in Austria expressed dismay Tuesday that his portraits were slashed and daubed with swastikas in three attacks this month, but said the vandalism serves to emphasize why the show is important. This destruction is the worst possible scenario, German-Italian artist Luigi Toscano told The Associated Press. These survivors trusted me when I took their photos and now their pictures have been defaced Im shocked. In the most recent attack, 10 larger-than-life portraits of Holocaust survivors, which are on show on a central Vienna street, were slashed across the faces late Sunday. Earlier, three pictures were cut and four were defaced with swastikas and anti-Semitic slurs, Toscano said. President Alexander Van der Bellen, who opened the exhibit Lest We Forget, condemned the attack Monday. Vienna police are investigating. The exhibition, on part of the Ringstrasse, a busy road that runs around downtown Vienna, is made up of 80 portraits of Holocaust survivors. Toscano said he talked to some of the survivors after the vandalism occurred and though they were hurt, they told him that, now more than ever before these portraits need to be shown. The artist also received support from many people in Vienna, he said. A group of young Muslims, a Catholic youth group and a Viennese theatre group arranged for an around-the clock vigil that started Monday night. More than 60 people showed up to protect the exhibit all night, Toscano said. Some brought along tents, lit candle and some even showed up with sewing kits. I was especially touched by the women who came and stitched the photos back together, Toscano said. I didnt even think it was possible. The supporters in Vienna said theyd continue their vigil until the exhibit closes on May 31. The portraits, which are 2.5 metres (8 feet) tall and 1.5 metres (5 feet) wide, are made from a textile-like material that is water-repellent. So far, they have been shown in 13 countries worldwide. An exhibit in San Francisco just ended without any incidents, while another thats currently on show at the banks of the Rhine river in the western German city of Mainz is getting police protection, Toscano said. On Tuesday, the United Nations Human Rights office condemned the attacks on the exhibition and expressed concern about the rise in anti-Semitic incidents taking place in a number of European countries and the United States. VIENNA - Austrias president formally dissolved the countrys government Tuesday, a day after Chancellor Sebastian Kurz lost a no-confidence vote in parliament. President Alexander Van der Bellens move followed more than a week of turmoil that began with the publication of a video showing a coalition figure, the leader of Austrias far-right Freedom Party, appearing to offer lucrative government contracts to a purported Russian investor. That prompted Kurz to pull the plug on the governing coalition between his right-wing Peoples Party and the Freedom Party and call for a new national election. During an acrimonious session Monday in parliament, the Freedom Party and the opposition Social Democrats accused Kurz of seeking to consolidate power while he and his Peoples Party are riding high in the polls. Both parties then voted in favour of a no-confidence motion against Kurzs government. Buoyed by a strong first-place showing in the European election on Sunday, Kurz vowed not to be gone for long, suggesting that his party would emerge even stronger in Austrias national election in September. In the end, the people will decide in September, and Im happy about that, he told a cheering crowd in Vienna. Van der Bellen needs to appoint a caretaker government to run the country until the national election, and has said he expects to do that in the next week. He plans to hold talks with all parties to find suitable candidates. Until that government is in place, Van der Bellen temporarily kept the same Cabinet ministers in place. Kurzs deputy chancellor, Finance Minister Hartwig Loeger, is taking over the duties of chancellor until the interim government is appointed. Van der Bellen took the occasion to admonish all parties to tone down their rhetoric and engage in constructive dialogue. I think that the current situation shows how important conversations are, he said. BAGHDAD - An Iraqi court on Tuesday sentenced two high-profile French members of the Islamic State group to death, including one who featured in a propaganda video praising the 2015 Paris attacks, bringing the total number of French former jihadis condemned to death this week to six. France said it would do all it can to spare the group from execution in Iraq. Although it has made no effort to bring back the captured fighters, France is outspoken against the death penalty globally. The sentencings in Iraq come amid controversy about the legal treatment of thousands of foreign fighters who had joined IS at the height of its power in Syria and Iraq when the militant group declared its self-styled caliphate. Human rights groups are concerned they are being rushed through Iraqi counterterrorism courts in trials that raise questions over whether justice is being done. Convictions are often based on confessions that defendants and rights groups say are extracted by intimidation, torture and abuse and without due process. Although European IS members have been sentenced to death, none has actually been executed in Iraq. The men sentenced to death Tuesday were identified as Karam Salam Mohammed El-Harchaoui and Brahim Ali Mansour Nejara. They are among a group of 12 French citizens who were detained by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces in neighbouring Syria and handed over to Iraq in January. The Kurdish-led group spearheaded the fight against IS in Syria and has handed over to Iraq hundreds of suspected IS members in recent months. Nejara, 32, helped run one of the networks that sent Europeans to join the Islamic State group and appeared in a video a week after the November 2015 attacks in Paris. The video was titled Paris has collapsed and shows a fictitious destruction of the Eiffel Tower, according to Jean-Charles Brisard of the Center of the Analysis of Terrorism. Nejara is originally from a suburb of the French city of Lyon called Meyzieu, long known to be a training ground for jihadis, even before the appearance of the Islamic State group. He is believed to have encouraged one of his brothers back home to carry out an attack in France, possibly on the stadium there. Two brothers were arrested in France. The video, in which he appeared armed and in military uniform praising the Paris attacks, was played in court Tuesday. The attacks killed 130 people and wounded more than 400. Nejara, speaking before the judge, said that he was forced to make the video because the group was looking for someone who speaks French. He said he was threatened with prison when he requested to appear masked in the video, before they agreed to his request. The other militant, El-Harchaoui, 33, lived in Belgium before he left for Syria in 2014. He was wounded in one of the battles he fought for IS in Syria. His second wife told The Associated Press he joined IS in Syria in 2014, was sent to Iraq to fight, escaped and travelled back to Syrias Shaddadeh, then to Raqqa where he was wounded in an airstrike in 2016. He was jailed for fleeing, then released. The two then met and married in October 2015, after which he was arrested again. I know he will not have a fair trial, Samira told the AP in an interview in March at camp Roj in northern Syria, where thousands of foreign women and children are languishing. El-Harchaoui showed off his wound to the court on Tuesday, pulling off the top of his yellow prison uniform to reveal a hole in his right shoulder where he was wounded from a shell that hit a nearby house. Three other French IS fighters had already been sentenced to death on Sunday, and a fourth on Monday. Those convicted can appeal their sentences within a month. Nabil Boudi, lawyer for Leonardo Lopez, who was sentenced to death earlier this week, told France Info radio that lawyers for the French citizens were waiting for the end of all the trials before appealing. Human rights groups have criticized Iraqs handling of IS trials, accusing authorities of relying on circumstantial evidence and often extracting confessions under torture. Judge Abdul Sattar Bayraqdar, a judicial spokesman, said Iraq is prosecuting these militants on behalf of all the countries of the world. By punishing these criminals, we are saving the world from their evils, he told AP. The former IS members all said they regretted what theyd done. However, they all referred to IS by the Arabic name of Tanzeem, or organization, rather than Daesh, even when the judge did. The Arabic acronym for the group is deemed offensive by IS and its supporters. Frances foreign minister said earlier Tuesday that his government is working to spare the group of condemned Frenchmen from execution after Iraq sentenced them to death. Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian also reiterated Frances position but said the IS militants should be tried where they committed their crimes. We are multiplying efforts to avoid the death penalty for these ... French people, he said on France-Inter radio. He didnt elaborate, but said he spoke to Iraqs president about the case. Boudi, the lawyer, accused France of engaging in doublespeak. He said France knew full well the moment the French citizens were transferred to Iraq that they were going to be sentenced to death. He said the investigation lasted three months and was a judicial fiasco. The idea of a fair trial is a farce, a huge joke. ___ Associated Press writers Lori Hinnant in Brussels, Zeina Karam in Beirut, and Ahmed Sami in Baghdad contributed to this report. ATHENS, Greece - The Greek government has set July 7, a week later than expected, as the date for early parliamentary elections. Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras called the early election after his partys heavy defeat in the weekends European parliamentary polls. Government spokesman Dimitris Tzannakopoulos said Tuesday the decision was taken to not disrupt school-leavers university entry exams that would have been affected by a June 30 date, the earliest allowed under Greeces electoral system. Tsipras announced after the European parliamentary vote Sunday that he would seek the dissolution of parliament after Greeces second round of regional and municipal elections on June 2. Tsipras current four-year term expires in October. His left-wing Syriza party trailed opposition conservative New Democracy by 9.4 percentage points in the May 26 vote. MILAN - Fiat Chryslers proposal to merge with French rival Renault has industry executives, analysts and union leaders rushing to figure out how it would reshape the sector worldwide. A deal would create the third-largest automaker with annual sales of 8.7 million vehicles, behind Volkswagen and Toyota. It would be a bold step in the industry consolidation that many see as necessary in the capital-hungry sector, which Fiat Chrysler Automobiles says would create 5 billion euros ($5.6 billion) in savings. Yet, while Renault has indicated it is open to talks, the plan faces hurdles and questions, including where savings - and perhaps even job cuts - will come from. Heres a look at the proposed deal. ____ WHATS NEXT Fiat Chrysler made public its plan on Monday, and is awaiting a response from Renault. The Renault board met Monday to discuss what they termed a friendly offer. The French government holds a 15% stake in Renault, and will have a say in the outcome. Renaults board will hold a new meeting early next week to decide on whether to say yes or no to the proposal. A yes would open the way for a non-binding memorandum of understanding to open exclusive merger negotiations with Fiat Chrysler. The ensuing process would involve consultations with unions, the government, antitrust authorities in all relevant jurisdictions, as well as other regulators. It would take about a year. ____ JAPANESE (TRI-)ANGLE One particular impact a deal could have is on Renaults existing alliance with Japanese partners Nissan and Mitsubishi. Questions over the future of that alliance have grown since the criminal investigation into the former head of Renault and Nissan, Carlos Ghosn, who denies wrongdoing. Ghosn intended to merge the two, but industry analyst Ferdinand Dudenhoeffer says the deal had little appeal for the Japanese. He noted that Renaults sales represented just 36% of alliance sales - and the Japanese didnt want to see the French carmaker drive a merger with those numbers. It is unclear whether they would be amenable to a bigger tie-up, adding Fiat Chrysler to the mix. Renault Chairman Jean-Dominique Senard is in Tokyo on Wednesday for a monthly meeting of Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi management, where he will discuss the merger proposal with his Japanese partners. The French Union CGT union has warned that the biggest risk of the proposed merger between Renault and Fiat Chrysler is to declare war on Nissan-Mitsubishi, due to their apparent resistance to full mergers. ___ SAVINGS AND STRATEGY The deal makes a lot of sense strategically: Renault is strong in Europe, Fiat Chrysler in North America; Renaults focus is passenger cars and Fiat Chryslers is in SUVs and big trucks, while it works to boost its Italian luxury marquees Maserati and Alfa Romeo. Renault, critically, has electric and hybrid technology that Fiat Chrysler lacks. Through Nissan-Mitsubishi, a foothold in Asia, where Fiat has struggled, would give an expanded alliance even stronger appeal for Fiat. And both automakers need to make serious investments to develop new driving technologies, like autonomous driving. ____ MERGER EXPERIENCE Fiat Chrysler can flaunt the fact that it has done well merging its Italian and American sides over the past decade. Fiats late CEO Sergio Marchionne, a master dealmaker, sealed an agreement with U.S. officials in 2009 to take over bankrupt Chrysler in exchange for small-car technology and managerial expertise. The deal secured Fiats survival, with Chrysler now the carmakers big cash machine on the strength of Jeeps SUVs and Ram trucks. Marchionne died unexpectedly last July, and his successor, CEO Mike Manley, who long worked alongside Marchionne for years, has taken up the deal-making mantle along with Chairman John Elkann, heir to the Fiat-founding Agnelli family. ___ JOBS This could be one of the biggest hurdles. The French government says that any deal needs to protect all French jobs and factories, and preserve Renaults existing alliance with Nissan and Mitsubishi. Italy does not hold the same sway over Fiat Chrysler, but Deputy Premier Matteo Salvini likewise says any deal must preserve Italian jobs. Fiat Chrysler says 90% of savings would come from reducing spending on purchasing parts, and combining research and development, manufacturing and tooling. It estimates the savings would be achieved in six years. On the one hand, Fiat Chrysler has already slimmed down since the financial crisis, combining many administrative functions following the merger. U.S. plants are running at capacity and Fiat Chrysler is looking to build a new assembly plant and retool another, regardless of the proposed merger. In Italy, it is planning investments of 5 billion euros. But the French union CGT noted that it took 18 years for the Renault-Nissan alliance to achieve a pace of 5 billion euros per year in savings. ____ Charlton reported from Paris. Tom Krisher in Detroit contributed to this report. MADRID - The European Union stepped up its push for a new presidential election in Venezuela as a way out of the crisis by appointing a former international banker and seasoned diplomat Tuesday as the blocs special envoy for the country. Enrique Iglesias is a former Uruguayan foreign minister who went on to head the Inter-American Development Bank and SEGIB, a Madrid-based international organization representing Latin American countries as well as Spain and Portugal. He was appointed as the EUs special envoy for Venezuela by the blocs foreign affairs chief, Federica Mogherini. With Iglesias dual Uruguayan-Spanish nationality and long experience in Latin American affairs, European diplomats believe he is well positioned to talk to both the government of Nicolas Maduro and the opposition. The goal for his appointment is to contribute to a peaceful and democratic solution to the Venezuelan crisis and as a follow-up to discussions held in the context of the International Contact Group, an EU statement said. Eight European countries, including Germany, Spain and Britain, as well as Bolivia, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Uruguay in Latin America are part of the group. Its mission to Caracas earlier this month met separately with both Maduro and Juan Guaido, the opposition leader recognized as the interim president of Venezuela by dozens of countries, including the United States. The International Contact Ggroup says that rather than mediating, it is working to set conditions for a fair and transparent presidential election and safe delivery of humanitarian aid. It has come out as a strong supporter of talks that representatives of Maduro and Guaido have been holding in Oslo. A senior EU official told The Associated Press that the bloc saw talks in the Norwegian capital as complementary and aligned with the work of the ICG. The official, who was not authorized to be named in media reports, added that the EU is open to provide support to possible accords that may emerge from the Oslo process. BERLIN - Teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg called on world leaders Tuesday to acknowledge the seriousness of global warming and that not enough is being done to curb it. Speaking at a conference in the Austrian capital, Vienna, Thunberg suggested it was wrong to portray the worldwide shift necessary to rein in climate change as primarily an opportunity to create new green jobs, new businesses, green economic growth, as some political and business leaders have done. This is above all an emergency and not just any emergency. This is the biggest crisis humanity has ever faced, she said, adding: This is not something you can like on Facebook. The 16-year-olds activism, which started with her protesting alone in front of the Swedish parliament last August, has inspired regular student protests around the world. Green parties in Europe have credited Thunberg with helping propel the issue of climate change into the limelight, boosting their results in last weeks European Parliament elections. Thunberg has often struck a much darker tone than some of her fellow activists and refused to hold back from criticizing her audiences. Politicians one second say climate change is very important, it is the most important topic and we are going to do everything we can to stop it, she said. And the next second they want to expand airports, build new coal power plants and motorways. And then they fly off in a private jet to attend a meeting on the other side of the world. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who has invited world leaders to a climate summit in New York in September, said countries arent doing enough to meet the Paris climate agreements goal of keeping global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) by the end of the century compared with pre-industrial times. Guterres called for an end to fossil fuel subsidies, saying taxpayers money shouldnt be used to harm the planet. Many people still think that to give fossil fuel subsidies is a way to improve living conditions of people, he said. Nothing (could be) more wrong. What we are doing is to use taxpayers money, which means our money, to boost hurricanes, to spread drought, to melt glaciers, to bleach corals, in one word: to destroy the world. I believe that as taxpayers we would prefer to see our money back than to see our money used to destroy the world, said Guterres. BELGRADE, Serbia - The Latest on tensions between Serbia and Kosovo (all times local): 7 p.m. The United Nations says a Russian staff member detained during a police operation in Kosovos Serb-populated north has been released from the hospital and is calling for the immediate release of a second staff member who is a Kosovar citizen. U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said both staff members were injured during Tuesdays operation and the Russian staffer is being examined following his release. Kosovo police say five police officers and six civilians were injured during an operation against organized crime and corruption that primarily targeted other police officers. Haq said the U.N. Mission in Kosovo is concerned about the detention of its staff members who were carrying out their duties. The Kosovo police operation on Tuesday sent tensions with Serbia soaring. __ 5:45 p.m. Kosovos foreign minister says his countrys authorities are set to carry out more police actions like the operation in Serb-dominated northern Kosovo Tuesday that sent tensions with Serbia soaring. Behgjet Pacolli says I believe its not the last operation in Kosovo...Maybe today, maybe tomorrow or in next days.we are fighting organized crime. Pacolli said the operation, which involved armoured vehicles and saw some two dozen arrested, was normal work for police. He said the action took place in other parts of Kosovo as well. Serbia put its troops on full alert after Tuesdays incident. Pacolli was addressing reporters in the Slovak capital after a meeting of European and Balkan foreign ministers. Serbias Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic, who was also present at the meeting, said: We should come back to dialogue. ___ 4:15 p.m. Serbias official news agency says a column of Serbian army vehicles packed with troops and equipment has left a military barracks in a central city and is heading south toward the border with Kosovo after tensions soared between the former wartime foes. The report Tuesday said the movement started around noon GMT Tuesday, in an apparent show of resolve after Kosovos special police carried out a heavily armed operation in Serb-dominated northern Kosovo. The incursion angered Belgrade, which said earlier Tuesday it has ordered its troops to be on alert and act should tensions escalate. The Tanjug agency says Defence Minister Aleksandar Vulin arrived in the barracks in Kraljevo shortly before the column of vehicles came out. It also reported a Serbian air force MiG-29 fighter jet making a low pass near the Kosovo border. Serbia does not recognize Kosovos 2008 declaration of independence. ___ 3:40 p.m. A European Union spokeswoman has called on both Kosovo and Serbia to show restraint as regional tensions soared after Kosovo police carried out a heavily armed operation in Serb-dominated northern Kosovo. Maja Kocijancic said in an email that Brussels is in touch with the leadership in Pristina and Belgrade and is calling for utmost restraint after the incursion Tuesday. Kosovo said it was an operation against crime and corruption, but Serbia was angered and has put its troops on full alert in reaction. Kocijancic said upholding the rule of law was an objective the EU strongly supports. But she warned Kosovo authorities that police operations need to reinforce and not weaken the normalization efforts. An EU-facilitated Pristina-Belgrade dialogue has stalled after Serbia declines to participate unless Kosovo lifts a 100% tariff on Serb and Bosnian goods set since last November. ___ 3:10 p.m. Kosovo police say five police officers and six civilians were injured during an operation against organized crime and corruption in the Serb-dominated north that primarily targeted other police officers. Police chief Rashit Qalaj said that 19 police officers and a number of other people were arrested during Tuesdays operation that involved special police forces. He said information about evidence that was seized would be released later. Qalaj said two of the officers sent to carry out the arrests were injured during armed resistance by ethnic Serbs in northern Zubin Potok commune, while others were hurt while clearing the road of makeshift barricades. The official said a U.N. vehicle with two staff members, a local and a Russian, was found while clearing a barricade. The reason we arrested them was participation at the barricades, Qalaj said. The United Nations Mission in Kosovo said it deplored the detention and asked for their release. ___ 2:15 p.m. The United Nations Mission in Kosovo, or UNMIK, has deplored the detention of two of its staff during an armed police operation in Kosovos Serb-populated north. The mission said in a statement Tuesday the two U.N. staff members were injured the operation, which triggered Serb anger and sent regional tensions soaring. Russias Foreign Ministry has said that one of the U.N. employees is Russian and condemned Kosovo for stoking tensions with neighbouring Serbia. The nationality of the other employee is not immediately known. UNMIK Ambassador Zahir Tanin called for their immediate release, adding any harm to United Nations staff will be met with the highest degree of diplomatic and international legal responses. UNMIK was deployed in Kosovo in 1999 after NATO intervened to stop a bloody Serb crackdown on Kosovo Albanian separatists. It has a reduced mission after Kosovos 2008 declaration of independence. ___ 1:50 p.m. Russia is demanding Kosovo authorities immediately release a Russian U.N. employee detained and injured during a police operation in northern Kosovo that has fueled tensions with Serbia. Alexander Chepurin, the Russian ambassador to Belgrade, said Tuesday on Twitter that we are revolted by the provocation. Chepurin says the detained Russian citizen is an associate of the U.N. mission in Kosovo known as UNMIK. He adds that we are demanding immediate release of the Russian (citizen) and establishing the responsibility for all those responsible for this flagrant incident. Kosovo said Tuesdays incursion in the Serb-dominated northern region was an operation against corruption and crime. Serbia warned it was a threat to peace and said it has put its troops on full alert. Kosovos President Hashim Thaci said that the Russian citizen was camouflaged under a diplomatic veil to hamper the police operation. Russia, a Serbian ally, does not recognize Kosovos declaration of independence from Belgrade in 2008. ___ 1:20 p.m. Russias Foreign Ministry has accused Kosovo of stoking ethnic tensions with Serbia after heavily armed Kosovo police entered a Serb-dominated region in northern Kosovo and arrested some two dozen people. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement on Tuesday that Kosovo provoked Serbia by sending its police force to enter Serb-populated regions of the former Serbian province. Zakharova said the incursion aims to stoke fears into the non-Albanian population and seize control over those areas by force. Kosovo declared independence from Belgrade in 2008 after a bloody war. Belgrade and its allies Russia and China do not recognize Kosovos statehood, while the United States and most of the Western states do. Zakharova said on Tuesday that the incident wipes away the progress made in reconciliation between Serbia and Kosovo and called on Kosovos foreign patrons to rein in Kosovar and Albanian radicals. ___ 1 p.m. Kosovos president has rejected as populist Serbias warnings about putting troops on alert in reaction to an armed police operation in a Serb-populated area in Kosovo. Hashim Thaci said that the Kosovo police operation early Tuesday in Mitrovica, in northern Kosovo, was fully legal and directed against no community. Thaci said that those arrested included Albanians, Serbs, Bosnians and also a Russian who was camouflaged under a diplomatic veil to hamper the police operation. He called for Belgrades support because organized crime is not local but regional. Serbia regarded the operation as a threat to peace. It said Serbian troops have been ordered to be on alert and would act if tensions escalate. ___ 11:40 a.m. Serbias president is warning that his country will act to protect our people in neighbouring Kosovo amid soaring tensions with its former war-time foe. Aleksandar Vucic confirmed reports Tuesday that Serbian troops have been placed on alert after armed police in Kosovo, a former Serbian province, entered Serb-populated regions and made a number of arrests. Vucic says Kosovo police so far have arrested 23 people after bursting into the northern region with armoured vehicles. He told Serbias parliament that Kosovo police have used force against unarmed Serbs and fired shots in the air. Vucic says Serbia will struggle to preserve peace and stability but we will be fully ready in a shortest possible period to protect our people. Any intervention from Serbia would result in direct confrontation with NATO peacekeepers stationed in Kosovo. Vucic says that we are aware of all the consequences. ___ 11 a.m. The NATO-led Kosovo Force mission is calling on all people in the country to stay calm, adding that it is closely monitoring a police operation in the north. KFOR spokesman Col. Vincenzo Grasso told The Associated Press on Tuesday that they are monitoring the situation and co-ordinating with the authorities, but NATO troops are not on alert. We are aware of the ongoing police operation. We are monitoring the situation and invite everybody to stay calm and not to escalate to the use of violence, he said by phone. A Kosovo police operation against organized crime in the north, where most of the ethnic Serb minority lives, has sparked tension, and Serbia ordered its troops to full alert. The Kosovapress news agency reported that three police officers were injured, one seriously. ___ 10:20 a.m. Kosovos president is calling on the ethnic Serb minority to remain calm and support the police fight against organized crime, which he says will speed up the countrys process toward integration with the West. Hashim Thaci on Tuesday called for calm after a police operation in the area of Mitrovica, where most of the ethnic Serb minority lives, sparked concern, and led Serbia to order its troops to full alert. Those involved in illegal activities will go behind bars, he wrote on his Facebook page, adding that the police operation was not targeting ethnicities. He invited the Serb minority to support the fight against organized crime. Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj called on Belgrade not to undermine our efforts to tackle (crime). Serbia has suspended European Union-facilitated dialogue with the Kosovo government after Pristina in November slapped a 100-per cent tax on Bosnian and Serbian imports, saying it will only be lifted when the two countries recognize Kosovos sovereignty. ___ 10:05 a.m. Serbias state TV says a meeting is underway of the countrys top security body following tensions in Kosovo over arrests in the Serb-populated north. The report says President Aleksandar Vucic will speak in the parliament later on Tuesday about the latest developments. It says Vucic has warned the European Union that Serbia will react if Kosovo does not pull its special police out of northern Kosovo. RTS TV also says movements of Serbian troops in the direction of Kosovo have been spotted after the country put the security forces on alert earlier on Tuesday. Serbias National Security Council includes top army and police officers and government officials. Kosovo police have said they have arrested several people in an action in northern Kosovo against crime and corruption. Serbia insists the action is aimed at intimidating Serbs in Kosovo. ___ 9:55 a.m. Kosovo police and media say two officers have been injured during a police action in the north of the country that has triggered tensions with Serbia. A statement said Tuesdays action followed a months-long investigation of criminal groups involved in smuggling, abuse of power, bribery and illegal trade. The lives of the injured officers are not in danger. Police faced resistance, especially in the commune of Zubin Potok, where they arrested the top policeman, an ethnic Serb. Local Serbs tried to block the road but police broke through. The police statement said those arrested Tuesday included several police officers and citizens, but didnt specify how many. Agim Bahtiri, the ethnic Albanian mayor of the commune of Mitrovica, said the operation was against no nationality but those people who have done harm. ___ 8:50 a.m. Serbia has ordered its troops to full alert after reports that Kosovo police entered Serb-populated regions of the former Serbian province. Serbias state TV said Tuesday that Kosovos special police burst into northern Kosovo and made several arrests. There was no confirmation of the action from Pristina. Serbian government official Marko Djuric says the Kosovo police action is designed to intimidate and expel Serbs from Kosovo and presents a not only a threat to stability but the most direct threat to peace. Serbia lost control over Kosovo after a NATO intervention in 1999. It does not recognize Kosovos 2008 declaration of independence. State TV says Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic ordered a full state of alert for Serbian troops. LONDON - Britains human rights watchdog says it is investigating whether the countrys main opposition Labour Party is guilty of illegal anti-Semitism. The Equality and Human Rights Commission says it is examining whether the party unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimized people because they are Jewish. Labour has been riven by allegations that the party has become hostile to Jews under leader Jeremy Corbyn, a longtime supporter of the Palestinians. Labour said Tuesday it was fully committed to the support, defence and celebration of the Jewish community and is implacably opposed to anti-Semitism in any form. But lawmaker Luciana Berger, who quit Labour earlier this year in part over anti-Semitism, said the threshold to initiate this process is extremely high. That the Labour Party has even met the evidenciary threshold is damning. JAFFA, Israel - Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed agreements with Israel officials to work on issues like space technology, agriculture, protecting water and cybersecurity. The agreements were part of a full schedule Tuesday, the third day of DeSantis trade mission to Israel. His delegation also a toured of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation. Florida emergency management director Jared Moskowitz toured the Gaza strip and the emergency management centre there. He praised an Israeli program that sends messages to residents cellphones during emergency events. He said Florida could learn from the technology. Moskowitz signed an agreement with Israeli officials which will lay groundwork to have Israeli emergency officials help Florida if the state has a major disaster. Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried joined DeSantis delegation after completing her own trade mission. BEIRUT - The Lebanese Foreign Ministry says Lebanon and Israel are close to establishing a framework for negotiations on demarcating the Lebanese-Israeli land and maritime borders. In a statement, it says the form of negotiations to be held under United Nations auspices and the role of each of the concerned parties is still being worked out. The purported negotiations are to be overseen by Washington, which has been mediating between the two Mideast nations. The statement came after a meeting Tuesday between Lebanese Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil and U.S. Acting Secretary of State David Satterfield. He has been shuttling between the two countries to mediate in the border dispute. The Foreign Ministry said Satterfield conveyed Israels response to the Lebanese proposals and that the atmosphere was positive. TEHRAN, Iran - Police on Tuesday arrested a former Iranian vice-president and mayor of Tehran after he confessed to shooting one of his wives dead in her home, Irans state news agency reported. Police detained Mohammad Ali Najafi after he went to authorities and confessed to killing wife Mitra Najafi, IRNA quoted prosecutor Mohammad Shahriari as saying. Shahriari said Najafi and his wife were having domestic problems. Earlier on Tuesday, Iranian media reported that Mitra Najafi, who is one of Najafis two wives, had been killed in northern Tehran. Gun violence is very rare in Iran, especially among the countrys political and economic elite. Najafi resigned as mayor in 2018 after hard-liners criticized him for attending a dance performance by young girls. In 2013, Najafi an MIT educated mathematician worked as vice-president in charge of cultural heritage and tourism in President Hassan Rouhanis administration for nearly seven months. Najafi has held many ministerial positions in his career. Gen. Ali Reza Lotfi, head of Tehran polices criminal investigation department, told state TV that Najafi handed the weapon over to police voluntarily and admitted committing the crime. Lotfi said Najafi fired five times and two bullets hit the victim. He said the case is under investigation by the police and judiciary simultaneously. Semi-official news agency Tasnim quoted Shahriari as saying Mitra Najafi was shot several times, including once in the heart. Her body was found in a bedroom on the seventh floor of a residential high-rise in northern Tehran. Polygamy is legal in Iran, though many criticized Najafi, 67, on social media after he married Mitra, 35 . CAIRO - A leading international rights group on Tuesday accused Egypts security forces of committing widespread abuses against civilians in the Sinai Peninsula, where Egypt has been battling Islamic militants for years. Human Rights Watch alleged that some of the abuses amount to war crimes. In a 134-page report, the group said it documented arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, extrajudicial killings, and possibly unlawful air and ground attacks against civilians. Some of these abuses, part of an ongoing campaign against members of the local ISIS affiliate, the Sinai Province group, amount to war crimes, the report said. ISIS is an alternative acronym for the Islamic State group. Egypts military dismissed the HRW report. Col. Tamer el-Refai, a military spokesman, said it was based on unverified sources and attempts by some politicized groups to tarnish the image of Egypt and the armed forces through baseless allegations. The militants have also committed horrific crimes, including kidnapping and torture of residents, some of whom were killed, the New York-based watchdog said. They have also killed captured members of the security forces, HRW said. Instead of protecting Sinai residents in their fight against militants, the Egyptian security forces have shown utter contempt to residents lives, turning their daily life into a nonstop nightmare of abuses, said Michael Page, HRWs deputy Mideast and North Africa director. Access to northern Sinai has been restricted for years, making it difficult to independently verify what is happening on the ground. HRW said the findings were based, in part, on interviews with Sinai residents and former detainees. The group also said, citing government statements and media reports, that 3,076 suspected militants and 1,226 members of the military and police were killed in fighting between January 2014 and June 2018 in Sinai. It said, however, that Egyptian authorities frequently counted civilians among the alleged militants killed and that hundreds of civilians have been killed or wounded in the violence. The government has not provided a tally for civilians killed in Sinai. HRW said the Egyptian military has recruited Sinai residents into a militia to help it by providing intelligence and carrying out missions on the militarys behalf. But these militia members also used their powers for arbitrary arrests and to settle scores and personal disputes. They have also participated in torture and extrajudicial killings, the group said. The insurgency in Sinai intensified after the militarys 2013 ouster of Mohammed Morsi, a freely elected but divisive president. Morsi was toppled amid mass protests against him, a year after he took office. In February last year, Egypt began a massive anti-militant operation, mainly focused on Sinai but also on parts of Egypts Nile Delta and the Western Desert along the porous border with Libya. TUCSON, Ariz. - In a story May 19 about the trial of a border activist, The Associated Press, relying on government court records, erroneously reported that the two migrant men aided by a member of a humanitarian aid group being tried on criminal charges were Mexican. They were from El Salvador and Honduras. A corrected version of the story is below: Trial begins for border activist who helped migrants A lawyer for a border activist being tried in Tucson for helping two migrants with water, food and lodging says prosecutors must prove his client intended to break the law to be found guilty A border activist being tried in a federal court for helping two migrants with water, food and lodging last year only intended to provide basic human kindness, his lawyer told jurors Wednesday. Defence attorney Greg Kuykendall also said in his opening statement that prosecutors must prove his client intended to break the law to be found guilty in the case. Scott Daniel Warren was arrested in 2018 when Border Patrol agents found him at a property used to provide aid to immigrants in Ajo, Arizona. Hes charged with harbouring migrants and conspiring to transport and harbour two men from Honduras and El Salvador found with him who were in the U.S. illegally. Prosecutors have argued that migrants Kristian Perez-Villanueva and Jose Arnaldo Sacaria-Goday were never in any real distress. The case is one of several against members of humanitarian aid groups who say their work on the border helping migrants in distress is increasingly under scrutiny. They blame the administration of President Donald Trump for the crackdown, which includes the separate arrests of several other members of the group Warren volunteers with. In a motion to dismiss the charges last week, Warrens defence team argued their client could not, consistent with his conscience and spiritual beliefs, turn away two migrants in the desert. The two migrants Warren helped were both ill, with one having chest pains, according to Kuykendall, who said Warren helped the men within the accepted legal and medical protocols. Scott intended one thing, to provide basic human kindness, Kuykendall told the jury. He also said Warren never hid the migrants and never encouraged them to commit the misdemeanour of illegal entry. Thousands of migrants have died crossing the border since the mid-1990s when heightened enforcement pushed traffic into Arizonas scorching deserts. ___ Information from: Arizona Daily Star, http://www.tucson.com METAIRIE, La. - A bald eagle hatched this spring in a New Orleans suburb was released Tuesday in the same neighbourhood after two weeks in Louisiana State Universitys Wildlife Hospital. Dozens of neighbours who had watched over the eagle family cheered as the mottled brown bird hopped out of the cage in which it had travelled from Baton Rouge and launched itself into the air in Metairie, Louisiana. I have a 1-year-old. Its been a lot of fun seeing her point up and say, Bird! said Christie Penot, whose home is across from the yard where the eagles built their nest. The nest was built a year ago, but this year is the first that eggs have hatched, she said. The eaglet sat for a while on the roof of a house in the shadow of its nest, fending off a pair of mockingbirds that were dive-bombing it. Then it flew off. It was heading toward a tree where its parents and sibling had been seen earlier Tuesday morning, said photographer and coastal consultant P.J. Hahn, who has been following the birds since they began work on the nest during the winter. The eaglet had been taken to the LSU veterinary schools Wildlife Hospital on May 11. It had been found May 10, walking in a nearby street and barely able to fly. Bald eagles first flights often leave the bird stranded on the ground, but their parents generally keep feeding them until they fly again, according to the Journey North citizen science centre at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. However, this bird and its sibling had begun flying in late April. Veterinarians didnt find any broken or injured bones, so they think the bird had a muscle injury, veterinary school spokeswoman Ginger Guttner said in a news release Friday. The birds are clumsy when learning to fly, Hahn said Friday. They fly into a tree and hit it hard. ... Im sure it probably bruised its shoulder. About 40 people, mostly area residents and a few members of the news media, were present as the LSU van and its police escort drove up and pulled into a driveway across the street from the nest. Jefferson Parish sheriffs deputies had blocked off the street and cleared a wide pathway through the small crowd. People cheered when the bird flew and landed. Claudia Bowman wiped away tears and hugged Christine Pauley-Lataxes, who was cheering and screaming. Someone began chanting L-S-U! L-S-U! Hahn gave the veterinary school a 60-by-40-inch (1.5-by-1-meter) photograph of one of the adults feeding a still fuzzy nestling to thank the veterinarians and their students for volunteer work at the hospital, which is part of LSUs veterinary school. ___ Associated Press writer Janet McConnaughey in New Orleans contributed to this report. NEW YORK - Democrats wont pick their nominee for another year, but President Donald Trump and former Vice-President Joe Biden are acting like the 2020 presidential contest is already a two-man race. Almost completely ignoring his 23 Democratic competitors , Biden has been laser-focused on Trump particularly his embrace of racist rhetoric . But it has been Trumps recent focus on Biden that has surprised both his allies and critics, who believe the Republican president may be unintentionally elevating someone whose candidacy is barely a month old. Trumps advisers have privately encouraged him to lay off Biden. He has done the opposite, lobbing more public insults at the former vice-president than any other Democrat over the month. Trumps latest attack was perhaps his most brazen: During a state visit to Japan on Monday, he agreed with North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns recent description of Biden as a low-IQ individual. A Biden campaign aide on Tuesday called the comments beneath the dignity of the office. The campaign said it waited a day to respond out of respect for Memorial Day, a holiday that honours the service of military veterans. To be on foreign soil, on Memorial Day, and to side repeatedly with a murderous dictator against a fellow American and former vice-president speaks for itself, said Biden deputy campaign manager Kate Bedingfield. Democrats on the ground in key primary states report that the intensifying feud has strengthened Bidens argument that hes best positioned to take down Trump in 2020. For many voters, nothing matters more than electability. And with Trumps help, Biden is dominating that debate. Regardless of the short-term political fallout, its becoming increasingly clear that Trump and his allies view Biden as their most formidable opponent. And the anti-Biden assault could become more organized and intense should Biden maintain his front-runner status in the coming months. Trump seems to be obsessed with Biden, which suggests that hes afraid of him, said Gary Pearce, a longtime Democratic operative based in North Carolina. Clearly, the reason Trump is going after Biden is because hes perceived as the biggest threat, Republican strategist Alice Stewart concurred. From Bidens standpoint, you couldnt ask for a better situation. Trumps attacks on Biden are not part of an organized strategy, according to three people familiar with the campaigns thinking who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal matters. They described the situation as Trump tweeting and the campaign and the Republican National Committee working overtime to keep up as evidenced by the delays in both entities in amplifying the presidents message. Its consistent with Trumps view of himself as his own political strategist, prioritizing his gut over the advice of aides. In recent weeks, the president has attacked Bidens intelligence, his energy level, his history of unwanted touching, his record on criminal justice reform and his dedication to Pennsylvania. Trump told Pennsylvania voters during a rally last week that Biden deserted them. Biden, a native of Scranton, Pennsylvania, left the state as a child when his parents relocated for work. Ive never forgotten where I came from. My family did have to leave Pennsylvania when I was 10 we moved to Delaware where my Dad found a job that could provide for our family, Biden tweeted. Trump doesnt understand the struggles working folks go through. But Trump went further on Monday when he swiped at the former vice-president on foreign soil, choosing Kims side over Bidens when asked about the North Korean leaders description of the Democrats intelligence level. I dont take sides as to who Im in favour or who Im not, Trump told reporters in Japan when asked whether he was favouring a violent dictator over the former vice-president. But I can tell you that Joe Biden was a disaster. Trump added: Kim Jong Un made a statement that Joe Biden is a low-IQ individual. He probably is, based on his record. I think I agree with him on that. On Tuesday, Trump claimed that he was actually sticking up for Biden in Japan. He said that Kim had referred to Biden as a low IQ idiot and that he had related the quote of Chairman Kim as a much softer low IQ individual. Who could possibly be upset with that? the president tweeted. Trumps swipes against Biden have been the subject of significant internal debate in the halls of the West Wing and his reelection campaign. Several officials, including Trumps senior adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner, have expressed reservations that the president is helping Biden, whom they view as his strongest opponent, according to the three people familiar with the campaigns thinking. Trump may be highlighting Bidens vulnerabilities for progressive voters, especially when it comes to his history on criminal justice issues. But in attacking the former vice-president, some aides believe Trump risks turning Biden into a cause celebre for Democratic voters who are most animated by their dislike of Trump. That could prove especially problematic if Biden proves most resistant to the Trump campaigns entrenched strategy to paint all of Trumps opponents as socialists. Bidens blue-collar appeal in Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin poses the deepest threat to the presidents path to 270 electoral votes. Others in Trumps orbit are less worried and believe Biden might be the easiest to beat of the Democratic field. I happen to believe Biden would be the weakest of the general election candidates because hell be carrying 47 years of baggage and will have many of same vulnerabilities as (Hillary) Clinton, said Trumps 2016 senior communications adviser, Jason Miller. Billionaire Republican donor Doug Deason, who sits on the finance committee for the most powerful pro-Trump super PAC, cheered Trumps approach. Why is he going after Biden? Biden is leading in the polls. He can beat em up, Deason said. I think hes the only real legitimate contestant in the field. And I think it would be a shame for Democrats to end their race to the left and nominate him. Still, few Biden supporters view the attention from the president as a bad thing. Bidens campaign seized on Trumps attacks in a Tuesday fundraising email titled Donald Trump is scared. Over the last week, President Trump has repeatedly insulted Joe Biden even going so far as to side with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. Why? Its simple: Trumps afraid hes going to lose, says the fundraising appeal. It adds: Lets use this opportunity to show Donald Trump he should be scared of our momentum. ___ Miller reported from Washington. HOUSTON - Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden unveiled his first major policy proposal on Tuesday before one of the nations largest teachers unions. The former vice-presidents education plan would triple funding for schools with a high percentage of low-income students. It would double the number of psychologists, guidance counsellors, nurses and other health professionals in schools. It would also provide universal prekindergarten for all 3- and 4-year-olds. Theres no debate about what needs to be done, about whether or not a child starting off in kindergarten or first grade is behind the eight ball, he told more than 200 Houston-area teachers at a town hall meeting sponsored by the American Federation of Teachers. As part of his education plan, he also called for rational gun laws, saying it was not acceptable for gun violence to be a routine part of American life. To that end, he called for bans on certain military-style guns and ammunition, which he included in the 1994 crime bill he helped pass as a U.S. senator from Delaware. Some of his Democratic rivals have critiqued the 1994 bill, while President Donald Trump, seeking to foment doubts among progressives about Biden, has taken to slamming Bidens role in the law while touting his own enactment of bipartisan legislation easing federal sentencing rules. As part of his education plan, Biden also called for increasing teacher pay, though he stopped short of setting a benchmark. Look, you all went to college. You spent four years. You ended up in debt, and you end up in a situation where youre making 25 per cent less than most college graduates, Biden said. California Sen. Kamala Harris, a 2020 Democratic rival, said last month that her specific teacher-pay proposal would raise average teacher salaries by $13,500, roughly closing the gap between teachers and the average college graduate. Biden was one of several candidates who have attended town hall-style meetings put on by the teachers union. However, he has made a particular pitch not just for union voters, but also to teachers. Biden noted this month that more than 8,000 teachers contributed to his campaign in the first month since announcing he announced his candidacy the largest number of any single occupation. On Tuesday, Biden also proposed reinstating an Obama administration directive encourage desegregation strategies and provide grants to create plans. The provision is notable in light of criticism over Bidens opposition to busing as a method to desegregate schools as a first-term senator in the early 1970s. ___ Associated Press writers Bill Barrow in Atlanta and Juana Summers in Washington contributed to this report. HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. - Family members, friends and fans attended a Southern California beach memorial for Dick Dale, the late King of the Surf Guitar. The Orange County Register says a crowd gathered Sunday at the Huntington Beach Pier to remember Dale, who died in April at age 81. A group of surfers then took to the water for a paddle-out, the traditional ceremony held for fellow surfers when they die. Dale played pounding, blaringly loud power-chord instrumentals in the 1960s on songs like Miserlou and Lets Go Trippin. An avid surfer, Dale began built a devoted fan base across greater Los Angeles starting in the late 1950s. Dale says he developed his style by trying to merge the sounds of crashing ocean waves with rockabilly melodies. Quentin Tarantino selected Miserlou as the theme of his 1994 film Pulp Fiction. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - An open-government watchdog group and several news outlets sued Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and members of the Cabinet on Tuesday in an effort to stop them from holding a Cabinet meeting while on a trade mission in Israel. The lawsuit argues that the meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, violates the states constitution and open-government laws, which require that Cabinet sessions be open to the public. Florida residents who dont happen to be in Israel wont be able to attend, and the meetings planned location, at the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem, has generated security concerns that will further restrict access. The lawsuit was filed by The First Amendment Foundation, Gannett Co., Gatehouse Media and the owners of the Miami Herald and Tampa Bay Times. The Associated Press and other news outlets plan to join the suit. The meeting was organized as part of a trade mission DeSantis is leading with a delegation of nearly 100 business leaders, lawmakers, state university officials and others. The governors office wouldnt comment on the lawsuit, but has labeled the meeting as ceremonial. That doesnt matter, said First Amendment Foundation President Barbara Petersen. The fact that there even saying, Oh, its only ceremonial, therefore we dont have to open it to the public shows to me a basic misunderstanding of the Sunshine Law, Petersen said. This has nothing to do with the trade mission. This has everything to do with our Cabinet holding a meeting in a foreign county. And I dont care if they were holding the meeting in Montana, Id have the same concern. The lawsuit seeks an order to stop the meeting. If a judge doesnt act on time, then it seeks to have the meeting declared a violation of state law and to void any actions taken during the gathering. The members of the Cabinet are Attorney General Ashley Moody, Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis and Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried. Fried said she hopes the Cabinet meeting will follow the spirit of accessibility. While we have not yet been served the lawsuit, my understanding is that the governors office is working to address the situation, she said, according to a pool report set up by the Florida Society of News Editors. Sitting in a hotel lounge in Tel Aviv, Moody and Patronis said they hadnt heard about the lawsuit, according to a pool report set up by the Florida Society of News Editors. Hours before the lawsuit was filed, DeSantis discussed the meeting at a networking reception in the residence of U.S. Ambassador David Friedman. Holding a meeting of the Florida Cabinet in the embassy in Jerusalem, that is going to be a real neat thing, DeSantis said. DeSantis and the independently elected Cabinet jointly oversee several state agencies. The agenda posted on the Cabinet website lists the signing of a resolution in support of the Florida/Israel relationship and presentations on victims of terror, water quality and emergency management. The meeting will be broadcast by The FLORIDA Channel, a state-funded news outlet that covers state government. A handful of other Florida reporters covering the trade mission wont be allowed to take equipment in that could provide live coverage, including cellphones and laptops. Even if no votes are taken, information-gathering sessions are still considered to be open to the public, Petersen said. She noted that the topics on the agenda relate to issues Florida has recently dealt with, including a red tide bloom, Hurricanes Michael and Irma and the school shooting that left 17 dead in Parkland. These are all issues that were extremely concerned about, and the right of access guaranteed by our constitution makes no mention of ceremonial meetings being exempt from that right of access, Petersen said. We dont want our future Cabinet meetings to be held anywhere but in the state of Florida. As the first state trial of the opioid epidemic begins in Oklahoma on Tuesday, families that have lost loved ones to opioid overdoses see a chance to hold drug companies accountable after years of waiting for recompense. Gail Box will be following the trial closely, but she wont be at the courthouse in Norman, the city where she last interacted with her son Austin in May 2011, when he graduated from the University of Oklahoma. Five days later, he was unconscious in a hospital after an overdose, with five different prescription painkillers and an anti-anxiety drug in his bloodstream. He died the same day. He was 22 years old. I just cannot go there, she said of the town where her son played middle linebacker for the Sooners. It is too painful for me to go there. Box is convinced that a stiff financial penalty against drug companies will provide accountability for her sons death, as well as providing the treatment and other services substance users need. Its not going to mend my broken heart, she said. Its not going to stop me from mourning my son. But hopefully it will stop the mourning of other peoples sons and daughters. Much has changed since Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter sued three drug companies and their subsidiaries 23 months ago, alleging they are responsible for the opioid scourge. Read more: First opioid trial takes aim at Johnson & Johnson Spotlight on Oklahoma for start of trial for opioid makers 5 states announce new suits over prescription opioids The central character in the opioid epidemic, Purdue Pharma, has settled with the state for $270 million (U.S.) and will not be on trial in Judge Thad Balkmans courtroom. On Sunday, a second defendant, Teva Pharmaceuticals, settled out of court for $85 million. The state has dropped all but one accusation against the remaining company Johnson & Johnson and is pinning its strategy on a novel use of Oklahoma law. During two years of pretrial battles, the community of people who have lost loved ones to opioid overdoses or seen lives ruined by addiction has steadily grown larger. In Oklahoma and elsewhere, they are among those most interested in the outcome. Its a club nobody wanted to join, said Bill Guy, 69, an Oklahoma teachers union organizer whose 34-year-old son, Chris, died of a heroin overdose in 2016. He wants companies held accountable for deaths like his sons, and he wants to prevent future death and addiction. Its not about retribution for me. When compared to other states, Oklahomas drug overdose rate of 20.1 per 100,000 residents is near the middle of the pack, far below West Virginias rate of 57.8, but much worse than Nebraskas 8.1, according to 2017 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Overdose deaths from prescription opioids have plunged in Oklahoma since they peaked at 478 in 2012, according to state data. In 2017, 277 state deaths were attributed to the prescribed painkillers. The states total number of overdose deaths continues to climb gradually, however, led in recent years by alcohol, methamphetamine and illegal opioids such as fentanyl and heroin. In 2017, 743 people died of overdoses. Like more than 1,600 other states, cities, counties, Indigenous tribes and other groups that have filed lawsuits, Oklahoma contends that pharmaceutical companies sparked the crisis of the past two decades, ignoring the growing toll and, in some cases, deceptively promoting the drugs. Oklahoma is seeking a penalty in the billions of dollars to abate the crisis, alleging it will take as much as $17.5 billion across the next 20 to 30 years to compensate for the damage. Its single charge is that the drug companies created a public nuisance, a violation historically alleged when one partys activities negatively affect others a neighbourhood crack house or a factory that pollutes a waterway, as examples. The companies have asserted that they responsibly marketed legitimate narcotics approved by the Food and Drug Administration to quell pain and cannot be linked to deaths from illegal abuse of the drugs. In a statement released Friday, John Sparks, Oklahoma counsel for Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiary, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, said Janssen is confident it acted responsibly in the marketing and promotion of its products. Its FDA-approved medicines helped people in pain, and Janssen successfully worked with regulators to prevent diversion and abuse of its opioid medications. With Balkman refusing to delay the Tuesday court date, Oklahomas case is the first of more than 40 state lawsuits to come to trial and is being closely watched elsewhere. Purdue Pharma, the company widely blamed for sparking the epidemic with the 1996 introduction and promotion of its painkiller OxyContin, will not be seated among the defendants. The company settled with the state in March, agreeing to pay $270 million, much of which will fund a treatment and research institute at Oklahoma State University. Mark McBride, an Oklahoma state representative from Moore, said many communities directly affected by the opioid crisis turned their attention away from the case in recent months when they learned most of the Purdue settlement would go to a school, rather than to localities. McBride and other legislators objected to the move, arguing they should have been allowed to decide how to spend the funds. He bemoaned the fact that cities and towns that have borne the brunt of crisis received just $12.5 million from Purdue. I dont think people really understand that there is something like this going on, McBride said of the trial. The funds from the Teva settlement will go to the state, and details on how to spend it are still being worked out. Becky ODell, executive director of Parents Helping Parents, a 1,200-member support group for Oklahoma parents of children with substance abuse disorders, said the members of her organization are keenly interested in holding drug companies responsible for the damage in Oklahoma. What I hear is they should be held accountable, she said. I think they just want the epidemic addressed. They just want the problem addressed. Austin Box was a star high school athlete in Enid, Oklahoma, where he suffered the first of a string of football injuries, his mother said. He, his family and his doctors carefully managed pain control with over-the-counter drugs and physical therapy, using no opioids until he ruptured a disc in his spine before his senior year at Oklahoma in 2010, she said. He received morphine in the hospital and a prescription for one opioid painkiller, with no refills, when he was discharged. Gail Box believes thats all it took for her son to become addicted. He began acquiring opioids from friends, she said, to manage his pain and the mental toll of the injuries. Her husband, Craig Box, declined to be interviewed because he could be called as a witness in the trial. After graduating on May 14, 2011, and returning home from a road trip with his father, Austin Box was found unconscious May 19 at a friends home in El Reno. Medics and doctors could not save his life. Gail and Craig Box have created a foundation in Austins name and Gail speaks at gatherings across the state about four times a month. She also served on the board of the states Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, where she met Hunter. I will continue to beat myself up for not realizing how dangerous opioids were, and are, she said. I want to send a message to the drug companies. They are responsible, they are directly responsible, for deaths as a result of not being totally honest (about) the addictive nature of prescription opioids. RABAT, Morocco - President Donald Trumps son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner is in Morocco to seek King Mohammed VIs backing for economic elements of the Trump administrations still-secret peace plan for Israel and Palestine. The Trump administration is stepping up efforts to build support for the plan, as the architects of the proposal began a Mideast tour this week aimed at winning over uneasy Arab nations. A White House official said Tuesday the trip is part of our ongoing efforts to achieve peace between Israel and the Palestinians but offered no specifics about the teams agenda at its various stops. The administration is keen to win support from members of the Arab League on whom the plan will rely heavily for both economic and political support. Kushner, Trumps special representative for international negotiations Jason Greenblatt and special U.S. envoy for Iran, Brian Hook, will also travel to Jordan and Israel as part of the trip. The Palestinians, who have cut off contact with the Trump administration and have rejected the peace plan sight unseen, are urging fellow Arabs to steer clear of the Bahrain economic workshop to be held on June 25-26. However, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have all signalled they intend to participate. Morocco and Jordan have yet to offer any public position on either the peace plan or the Bahrain meeting. Both have close ties with the Palestinian leadership and may fear public discontent should they endorse the plan. MIAMI - A man whose wife disappeared while they honeymooned at sea was sentenced by a federal judge to eight years in prison for involuntary manslaughter. Lewis Bennett, 42, apologized to the family of Isabella Hellman during a Tuesday hearing before U.S. District Judge Federico Moreno in Miami. He waived his right to appeal. Defence attorneys sought a 7-year sentence, a year lower than the maximum number spelled out in a plea agreement reached last November. Bennett was originally charged with murder, with investigators alleging he intentionally tried to sink the boat, but later dropped the charges. Its not because I expect that he will commit this crime again, Judge Moreno said. Sentencing is for punishment. Before Moreno announced his decision, Bennett, a dual citizen of Australia and the United Kingdom, asked the judge that he let him get out of prison sooner so he could continue to raise the couples daughter, who was an infant when the mother vanished. Emelia Bennett turns 3 in July and is being raised by his parents in Scotland. If you may permit me to be with my daughter as soon as possible, Bennett said. I want to bring her up in a manner that is respectful to my wifes wishes. But Moreno sided with prosecutors and chose eight years in prison as the sentence and three years on supervised release. Hellman disappeared as the couple sailed off the Bahamas in May 2017. A statement from the U.S. Attorneys office says Bennett had experience sailing, including training on emergency procedures and had previously travelled from St. Marteen to Australia. His wife, a naturalized U.S. citizen born in Cuba, had not trained in emergency sailing procedures and had less experience, prosecutors said. The couple had been married for three months when they set sail to St. Marteen, Puerto Rico and Cuba for a delayed honeymoon in late April. After they left Cuba on May 14, Bennett asked Hellman take over control of the boat for the night so he could go rest in the boats cabin, according to court documents. He didnt require her to wear a life jacket, harness or personal locator, prosecutors said in the statement. He said he woke up when the craft hit something, and Hellman was missing. Assistant U.S. attorney Kurt Lunkenheimer said on Tuesday that Bennett did not search for her diligently enough despite him being an experienced sailor. The government maintained he didnt use the satellite phone to call for help. Instead, he loaded provisions and stolen silver coins onto a life raft and boarded it. Prosecutors said he called for help 45 minutes after he had woken up realizing his wife was gone. A U.S. Coast Guard helicopter rescued him and flew him to the Florida Keys. Authorities searched for Hellman for four days, but never found her body. A Florida state judge declared Hellman dead earlier this month to clear the way for the couples daughter to inherit her mothers estate. Hellmans death occurred as a result of Bennetts knowledge of circumstances that existed that could have reasonably enabled him to foresee threat to life, said the U.S. Attorneys office statement Tuesday. The FBI said an inspection found that holes in the hull were inflicted from the inside and hatches were opened in a deliberate attempt to sink the boat. Bennett was initially arrested and charged with murder last year before reaching a plea deal with federal prosecutors. He had already pleaded guilty to transporting $100,000 in stolen coins. The defence attorney declined to comment. An attorney for Hellmans family said her relatives were satisfied with the judges decisions and were excited they would soon be able to visit Emelia in Scotland. There is nothing that can or could be done to bring Isabella back, said Mitchell Kitroser, a lawyer who spoke on behalf of the Hellmans family and said they were planning a visit in June. Emelia lost her mom but that doesnt mean that she has lost her moms family. ___ An earlier version of this report had an incorrect age for Lewis Bennett. INDEPENDENCE, Iowa - A new sentencing date has been set for former The Bachelor star Chris Soules for leaving the scene of a fatal 2017 accident. The Des Moines Register reports Soules will be sentenced on Aug. 27 at the Buchanan County Courthouse in Independence, Iowa. A judge last week delayed sentencing after striking letters written by the deceased drivers family. The judge agreed that family members couldnt be considered victims because Soules wasnt convicted of causing the death of 66-year-old Kenny Mosher. Soules was arrested after he rear-ended a tractor in April 2017. Soules called 911, performed CPR on Mosher and waited for first responders, but he left the scene before officers arrived. The 37-year-old former reality TV star pleaded guilty on Nov. 13 to a reduced charge of leaving the scene of a serious injury accident. Soules appeared on The Bachelor and Dancing With The Stars in 2015. ___ Information from: The Des Moines Register, http://www.desmoinesregister.com OPELIKA, Ala. - A man already sentenced to federal prison in a $2 million scam pleaded guilty Tuesday to an additional charge in state court, capping an odd saga that took in an entire Alabama town. Kyle Sandler, his hands cuffed and wearing a yellow jail uniform, stood before Circuit Judge Christopher Hughes trembling as he pleaded guilty to a state theft charge. Speaking softly, Sandler apologized to the east Alabama town of Opelika (Oh-puh-LIE-kuh), where he previously admitted cheating dozens of people with promises of riches from high-tech businesses. Id really like to do something to pay the town back, said Sandler, 43. A federal judge already has sentenced Sandler to more than five years in prison, and the state case doesnt automatically add more time unless Sandler violates his probation once hes free. The theft charge, involving a bad check of more than $2,500 that was taken out on an area bank, involved only a small piece of a scam that authorities described as massive. Sandler founded a business called The Round House in 2014 and lured in investors while portraying himself as a wealthy former Google executive. He raised his profile by aligning himself with internet security pioneer John McAfee and promoting the idea of an area teen who came up with an idea for a first aid vending machine. Lee County District Attorney Brandon Hughes said it was good to have the case behind the community. He is among the worst type of criminals, Hughes said outside of court. Its theft but he committed that through trust. He took in money from people that he knew, people he lied to and people who trusted him to be a good steward of their money and their investments. Sandler asked the judge to require him to perform 500 hours of community service in Opelika following his release from prison, but Hughes refused. The judge said such work would be a good gesture that Sandler could do on his own, but he added there was no point in adding it to his sentence officially. Sandler pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges involving the overall scheme. WASHINGTON - The Supreme Court will not take up a challenge to a Pennsylvania school districts policy allowing transgender students to use bathrooms and locker rooms that correspond with their sexual identity. The justices on Tuesday rejected an appeal from students who argued that allowing transgender students to use the same facilities violated their right to privacy. The courts order leaves in a place a federal appeals court ruling that held the Boyertown School District, about 45 miles (72 kilometres) northwest of Philadelphia, could continue to allow transgender students the choice of what facilities to use. The students are represented by the conservative Christian law firm Alliance Defending Freedom. ___ This story has been corrected to show Boyertown is northwest of Philadelphia, not northeast SAN DIEGO - Wildlife officers said Tuesday that they killed a mountain lion in a San Diego County nature preserve and will try to determine if it was the animal that injured a 4-year-old boy during a group hike a few hours earlier. The boy was hospitalized following the attack Monday and treated for head injuries that were not life-threatening, California Department of Fish and Wildlife Lt. Scott Bringman said at a press conference. The boy was part of a group of six adults and five children in Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, a 3,700-acre strip of nature meandering through neighbourhoods about 20 miles (32 kilometres) north of downtown San Diego. The boy was in the middle of the group, which scattered at the time of the attack, Bringman said. The father, who should be commended, he threw rocks and the animal left the scene, Bringman said. San Diego Fire-Rescue reported the attack to Fish and Wildlife, whose officers found mountain lion tracks. While they were at the scene, the mountain lion came to the location about 7 oclock at night, Bringman said. The animal did not appear to be scared of the wardens, which is an indication the animal is habituated, so at that point in time, the animal was euthanized. The mountain lion, described as an 80-pound (36-kilogram) adult female, will be tested for DNA from the victim. The boys clothing and bandages will be tested for DNA from the lion. Hopefully, we do have the animal which did attack the kid, Bringman said. The preserve will be closed until results of the tests are completed, likely within a few days. Bringman said its been more than 20 years since a mountain lion attacked a person in San Diego County. Its extremely rare, he said, noting that the animals are present but rarely seen. The boy was extremely lucky because an 80-pound lion can do major damage, Bringman said. Luckily the dad was there and fended off the animal, he said. Children have previously been attacked by Southern California mountain lions. Two well-known incidents occurred in 1986 at Ronald W. Caspers Regional Park in Orange County. A 5-year-old girl, Laura Small, was mauled that March and a 6-year-old boy, Justin Mellon, was grabbed by a lion the following October. He was rescued by his father, who used a hunting knife to drive the animal away. Urban sprawl has increasingly encroached in areas where Southern California mountain lions live. Still, they are rarely seen by people. The lions move constantly and each has a large home range. With some regularity, they are killed by traffic as they try to cross freeways. They also face such threats as rodent poisons and inbreeding due to being hemmed in by development. SACRAMENTO, Calif. - The Latest on the California Legislature (all times local): 4:30 p.m. The California Assembly voted Tuesday to extend the states Medicaid program to eligible adults who are in the country illegally. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom wants to spend about $98 million a year to cover low-income immigrants between the ages of 19 and 25 who are living in the country illegally. The state Senates budget proposal would also add coverage for people 65 and older living in the country illegally. The state Assemblys bill would cover all immigrants in California living in the country illegally over the age of 19. But Newsom has raised concern about the assemblys bill because it is estimated to cost more than $3 billion a year. The bill passed 44-11. The proposed law, Assembly Bill 4, goes next to the state Senate. ___ 3:20 p.m. The California Assembly has voted to ban the manufacture and sale of new fur products. Animal welfare groups have rallied around the bill, arguing the fur industry is inhumane and pointing to alternatives like faux fur. But opponents of the bill have countered that the proposed law would devastate fur retailers and manufacturers. Some California cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco and Berkeley, have already passed ordinances banning the sale of fur. The New York City council has also considered banning fur sales in Americas biggest city. The bill would not include used fur products or furs used for traditional purposes. Leather, cowhide and shearling would be exempt, too. The measure, Assembly Bill 44, now goes to the state Senate. ___ 3 p.m. Candidates running for office in California could use campaign donations to pay for childcare costs under legislation approved by the state Assembly on Tuesday. California law generally prohibits candidates from using campaign funds for personal expenses. But the proposed law would allow campaigns to pay for daycare, babysitting, nannying or after school programs while a candidate is on the trail. Backers argue the bipartisan bill will remove barriers for candidates interested in running for office and encourage more diversity in politics. But some lawmakers say it seems elitist at a time when childcare is unaffordable for many. The Federal Election Commission said last year that a campaign could cover a congressional candidates childcare costs in some circumstances. The measure, Assembly Bill 220, goes next to the state Senate. NORMAN, Okla. - The Latest on the trial in Oklahomas lawsuit against drugmakers, blaming them for contributing to the nations opioid crisis (all times local): 2:35 p.m. Drug companies being sued by the state of Oklahoma for fueling the states opioid addiction crisis say the products they manufactured were heavily regulated by state and federal agencies and addressed an important need for pain management. Attorneys for Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson delivered opening statements Tuesday in the nations first state trial against drugmakers blamed for contributing to the opioid crisis. Janssen attorney Larry Ottaway told a Cleveland County judge that the company represents only a small part of a vast supply and distribution chain for opioid products that is extensively regulated by various federal agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter says the powerful painkillers led to the worst manmade public health crisis in U.S. history. ___ 10 a.m. The nations first state trial against drugmakers blamed for contributing to the opioid crisis is underway in Oklahoma. Opening arguments started Tuesday with Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter saying powerful painkillers led to the worst manmade public health crisis in U.S. history. Drugmakers deny those claims. Lawyers for consumer products giant Johnson & Johnson and several subsidiaries are expected to start making their case later Tuesday. Two other pharmaceutical companies have settled with Oklahoma. The trial could bring to light documents and testimony that show what the companies knew, when they knew it and how they responded. The outcome could also shape negotiations on how to resolve the roughly 1,500 opioid lawsuits filed by state, local and tribal governments. Those have been consolidated before a federal judge in Ohio. ALBUQUERUE, N.M. - The Latest on a scientist charged with making false statements about contacts with a China program (all times local): 12:45 p.m. A scientist for a U.S. laboratory in New Mexico has pleaded not guilty to charges that he lied about contacts with a state-run program in China that seeks to draw foreign-educated talent. Turab Lookman of Santa Fe entered the plea Tuesday before a judge ruled that he could be released on a $50,000 secured bond with his familys home as collateral. His travel will be restricted to the Albuquerque and Santa Fe areas as he awaits trial on charges of making false statements while working at Los Alamos National Laboratory. The facility is tasked with ensuring the safety of the nations nuclear stockpile and reducing weapons threats. Prosecutors say Lookman had lied three times about being recruited by Chinas Thousand Talents Program and applying to participate in work there. __ 12:01 a.m. A scientist for a U.S. laboratory in New Mexico is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday on accusations he lied about contacts with a state-run program in China that seeks to draw foreign-educated talent. Prosecutors say 67-year-old Turab Lookman, of Los Alamos National Laboratory, had been asked on an employment questionnaire and by officials if he had been recruited by Chinas Thousand Talents Program or applied to work there. Hes accused in an indictment filed last week of falsely stating that he hadnt. Federal prosecutors say the China program had been established to recruit people with access to and knowledge of foreign technology and intellectual property. Court records did not yet list an attorney for Lookman. He faces up to five years in prison if convicted. BOSTON - Tony Horwitz, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and the bestselling author of Confederates in the Attic, has died. He was 60. Horwitz died Monday of apparent cardiac arrest in Washington, D.C., Sarah Hutson, a spokeswoman for his publisher, Penguin Press, said in an email. He had been on a publicity tour for his latest book, Spying on the South: An Odyssey Across the American Divide. Horwitz lived in West Tisbury, Massachusetts, on Marthas Vineyard. He covered conflicts in the Middle East, Africa and the Balkans for The Wall Street Journal for decades. He won the 1995 Pulitzer Prize for a Journal series on widening income inequality and low wage jobs. He was also a staff writer for The New Yorker before becoming an author full-time. In addition to Confederates in the Attic, which chronicles modern-day Southern attitudes about the Civil War, he wrote seven other books, including Blue Latitudes, in which he traced Capt. James Cooks 18th century journeys in the Pacific, and Midnight Rising, about John Browns 1859 raid on Harpers Ferry. He was also a fellow at the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard University and a former president of the Society of American Historians. Horwitz was a native of Washington who attended Brown University and Columbia Universitys Graduate School of Journalism. He was married to Pulitzer Prize-winning author Geraldine Brooks. They have two sons. The family had lived on Marthas Vineyard since 2006, where he was an advocate for conservation and historic preservation and was a regular at summer softball games. Funeral arrangements are pending. CHICAGO - The University of Chicago says it will be the first U.S. university to create a school of molecular engineering, thanks to a $100 million donation. The university announced Tuesday that the new school will be known as the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering. It will be supported by a gift from the Pritzker Foundation. Its the universitys first school in engineering and its first new school in three decades. The school will aim to find new solutions for pressing global challenges, including immunotherapy-based approaches to cancer and the search for sustainable energy. University of Chicago President Robert Zimmer says the gift will help expand work already underway with Argonne National Laboratory. The foundation is led by relatives of Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, including former U.S. Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker. ALBUQUERUE, N.M. - A scientist for a U.S. laboratory in New Mexico is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday on charges that he lied about contact he had with a state-run program in China that seeks to draw foreign-educated talent. Turab Lookman, who lives in Santa Fe and until recently worked at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, was asked on an employment questionnaire and by federal officials if he had been recruited by Chinas Thousand Talents Program or applied to work there, authorities said. Hes accused in an indictment filed last week of falsely stating three times between November 2017 and September 2018 that he had not. Prosecutors have described Thousand Talents as a program established by China to recruit people with access to and knowledge of foreign technology and intellectual property. For years, it was known as one of many state initiatives aimed at reversing a decades-long brain drain in China. Earlier this year, a former research oceanographer with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration was sentenced to time-served in Florida for working for the U.S. agency and two China programs, one of which was Thousand Talents. Chunzai Wangs sentence came after he pleaded guilty to a charged of accepting a salary from another source while working for NOAA. Lookman was arrested Thursday on charges of making false statements, and faces up to five years in prison if convicted, according to the U.S. attorneys office. His hearing Tuesday morning in Albuquerque is being held to determine whether he should be detained as he awaits trial. Court records did not yet list an attorney for Lookman. The Albuquerque Journal reported that Lookman began working in 1999 at the laboratory in Los Alamos. The once-secret city in the mountains of northern New Mexico is where the atomic bomb was developed decades ago as part of the Manhattan Project. The laboratory is now tasked with ensuring the safety of the nations nuclear stockpile, reducing weapons threats, and tackling energy, infrastructure, health and security problems. Lookman, an expert in the area of computational physics, was the recipient of at least two awards while working at the Los Alamos laboratory and is the co-author of two books, according to the labs website. WICHITA, Kan. - A Wichita, Kansas, man called police to his home twice claiming people were outside before they returned a third time early on Memorial Day and fatally shot him when he allegedly fired a gun at them. Police said Tuesday that they were called to 49-year-old Robert Sabaters home for the third time by a neighbours report of shots being fired. Authorities said Sabater ran out of his house and down the street, waving a gun and firing sporadically at officers. They said he refused an order to drop his weapon and officers shot him. He died at the scene. Sabater had called police to his house at about 9 p.m. Sunday and again at 11 p.m., complaining that he heard people outside. Police said they found no one. CHARLESTON, W.Va. - West Virginias only Roman Catholic diocese has released the names of two more priests who it says have been credibly accused of child sexual abuse in the state. The priests are accused of committing the abuse while working at the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston. Both are deceased. One of them, the Rev. Raymond Waldruff, previously was accused of abuse in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, Pennsylvania, in the 1960s. Complaints of decades-old abuse were made against him in March in the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston and in April in the Diocese of Owensboro, Kentucky. Waldruff served at two churches in north-central West Virginia in the 1970s. The other priest, the Rev. Andrew F. Lukas, was accusing of abusing a minor in the 1960s. The allegation was reported to the diocese in January. Eight other priests added to the latest list had claims against them in other regions or dioceses but not in West Virginia. None are in active ministry. The Intelligencer and Wheeling News-Register first reported on the updated list, which brings to 40 the number of accused priests or deacons who served in West Virginia. The diocese posted the list on its website last week. The original list was posted in November. Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston spokesman Tim Bishop said in a statement Tuesday that the updated list shows the Dioceses commitment to transparency and accountability. West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey filed a lawsuit in March accusing the diocese and former Bishop Michael Bransfield of knowingly employing pedophiles and failing to conduct adequate background checks on camp and school workers. Morrisey said in a statement that the diocese quietly updated the original listing without immediately trumpeting its release. If the Diocese truly sought closure and healing for victims, it would make good on its obligation to announce updates to its findings so those victimized would feel empowered to seek counselling and know they are not alone, Morrisey said. Instead, the Diocese appears fixated upon its goal of minimizing this scandal with limited publicity about wrongdoing and maximum publicity of its public relations campaign to protect the Church. Three respected, widely followed, non-conventional Saudi religious scholars, Salman al-Awdah, Awad al-Qarni and Ali al-Omari, currently under arrest in Saudi Arabia, could soon be executed on charges of terrorism. The Middle East Eye reports, citing an unnamed relative of one of the scholars and two anonymous Saudi sources, the executions could be carried out at the end of the Muslim holy month of fasting. The three are not dissidents. They have avoided criticizing the royal family or Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman (MBS). The most apparent offence they made; they did not back the MBS-led Saudi blockade of Qatar wholeheartedly. The crown prince does not seem to tolerate even the slightest hint of criticism. Salman bin Al-Awdah is a well-known Sunni Muslim scholar, known for his progressive views on social issues. He was arrested in September 2017, shortly after his tweet on the Saudi-Qatar imbroglio: May God harmonize between their hearts for the good of their people. After nearly a year in detention without charges, Al-Awdah was referred to a secret trial court. The state prosecutor brought 37 charges against him, including leading a terrorist group and inciting public opinion against the ruler. Similarly, Ali al-Omari has been a broadcaster running a TV station called For Youth. He was a popular religious broadcaster and commentator, while Al-Qarni has been a moderate preacher, academician and author. He too was a respected Islamic scholar, having a large social media following and used to appear regularly on TV talk shows. MBS is intent upon suppressing all forms of dissent. In April, the oil kingdom went ahead with the mass execution of 37 nationals, convicted on charges of terrorism. Most of them belonged to the minority Shia community, who have been waging a low intensity campaign to obtain more rights in the kingdom. Middle East Eye, quoting a source, reported that the mass execution of 37 men, was a trial run to gauge the reaction of the international community. And when they found out there was little international reaction, particularly at the level of governments and heads of state, Riyadh realized it was (the right) time to proceed (ahead) with its plans to execute (the three prominent) figures. Already, Saudi Arabia is on course to execute more people this year than any other in the decade. Amnesty International is calling the surge a bloody execution spree. In 2018 there were 149 executions in Saudi Arabia. Only China and Iran are ahead in the count. Riyadh continues to suppress dissent in all forms. Iyad al-Baghdadi, an Oslo-based, Palestinian-born, pro-democracy activist recently told CBS News that he and two other critics of the Saudi government have received threats for continuing the work of assassinated journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Authorities in Oslo recently brought Al-Baghdadi to a secure location to tell him about the information shared by the CIA, pointing to an unspecified threat from Saudi Arabia. At a news conference, Al-Baghdadi revealed that Omar Abdulaziz, a permanent resident of Canada, was recently taken by Canadian authorities to a secure location, after information was passed on by the CIA, about a possible threat to him. Al-Baghdadi also pointed to a recent report by the TIME magazine, revealing he knew the identity of the dissident in the U.S. whom the magazine said was also recently briefed by the CIA about potential threats. The timing of the imminent execution of the three scholars and the harsh moves against dissent is crucial. It has been dictated by escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran. Riyadh wants to avail the opportunity as Washington cannot offend Riyadh and needs its full support. Also important is the fact the U.S. is to unveil its Middle East Peace Plan. Despite all the carrots and pressure on Mahmoud Abbas, while the Palestinian Authority is not ready to accept and swallow the bitter pill the so-called peace plan delineated under the supervision of Jared Kushner Riyadh and Abu Dhabi are supporting the plan, and at a price, as their backing remains crucial to the entire game plan. In the process, the global conscience has been put to sleep, enabling Riyadh to get on with executing the dissidents. Rashid Husain Syed is a Toronto based political and energy analyst with insight into the Middle East. Read more about: Despite the #MeToo movement emboldening sexual assault survivors to publicly share their experiences, very few survivors report to authorities. In fact, only five per cent of sexual assaults in Canada are reported to police. There are many reasons why survivors dont report. According to Department of Justice Canada research from 2014, two thirds of women sexual assault survivors do not have confidence in the Canadian justice system. Thats not encouraging for anyone, but especially for women who make up the majority of sexual assault victims in Canada and who often face systemic gender-based discrimination from the very system they seek out for help. But what can be done about this? Part of a solution exists: Bill C-337. Bill C-337, also called The JUST Act, reaches the top of the justice system Canadian judges. If passed, the bill will require all federally appointed judges to complete training in sexual assault law, provide explanations for rulings, as well as ensure that the National Judicial Training Institute provide Canadians with transparency around how many judges complete training annually. In effect, Bill 337 will contribute toward greater gender sensitivity in the handling of these cases. There is full support for this bill in the House of Commons, yet it remains blocked by the Senate. Some argue its not needed. Some believe Canada has one of the best legal systems in the world. Unfortunately, our system repeatedly fails sexual assault survivors. A Google search of sexual assault trials in Canada reveals several examples of gender-based attitudinal biases that occur in our courtrooms. Further, In discussions with those who provide support to survivors across the country, we can conclude there is a serious problem in Canada that stems from a lack of justice system training, which in turn leads to bias and something short of respect for survivors. Sexual assault victims face scrutiny about what they may or may not have done before and after the assault. They are re-victimized by gender stereotypes that attack their credibility and dignity. Past sexual behaviour of the victim is often allowed to be part of the defence, despite laws that prohibits this in Canada. Just last week we saw news headlines of another extremely troubling example of what happens when judges dont have training. The Supreme Court of Canada ordered a new trial for Bradley Barton, who is accused in the death of Cindy Gladue. Bartons defence is that the sexual act that led to Gladues death was consensual. A retrial has been ordered because our Supreme Court justices agreed that the previous court did not prevent Gladues sexual history from becoming part of the trial and also failed to counter prejudice against her as an Indigenous woman. Canadian judges must have knowledge in the types of cases coming before them, they must be able to interpret sexual assault law with consistency, and they must mitigate bias within their courtrooms during sexual assault trials. Gender is one factor in how victims are treated, but so too is race, age and socio-economic status. The Canadian justice system needs more predictability within the courts during sexual assault trials. There is no doubt that trained judges will be better equipped to apply the law, helping them rise above gendered biases, discrimination and uneven legal interpretations. The Senate must act now. Due to a looming federal election, if Bill 337 isnt passed in June it will disappear altogether. One-in-three women and one-in-six men in Canada will experience sexual violence in their lifetime. As we continue to wait for the Senate to act, sexual assaults continue, and victims are forced to question whether seeking justice is worth it. We not only know it is worth it, but access to justice is an absolute and fundamental right. Bill C-337 will ensure our legal system is better able to demonstrate this. Increasingly popular veggie burgers have been called plant-based meat. Animal advocate Jessica Scott-Reid writes this description is acceptable, while Chris White of the Canadian Meat Council argues against the phrasing. Jessica Scott-Reid Animal advocate, plant-based food expert YES Does the term plant-based meat confuse you? Does it make you feel perplexed about what a product labelled as such is actually made of? Is it plants? Is it animals? Is it Soylent Green? The Quebec Cattle Producers Federation, backed by The Canadian Cattlemens Association, seem to think Canadian consumers cant figure out that the famous vegan Beyond Meat burger, marketed as plant-based meat, is made from plants, and has lodged a complaint to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Its a new chapter in the rhetorical battle over plant-based food labels, a battle that stems not from genuine concern for consumer confusion, but rather fear and desperation in the face of a booming eco-friendly and ethically sound plant-based proteins market. Dubbed by some as the meat-muzzle, several U.S. states have already enacted different forms of censorship on plant-based food and drink marketing. And if some EU lawmakers get their way, plant-based burgers in Europe may soon be marketed as veggie discs, (as if burger is a shape exclusive to animal parts). Meanwhile in Canada, after a Vancouver vegan cheese shop was notified by the CFIA earlier this year of a complaint regarding its use of the word cheese to market its nut-based products, the complaint was quickly dismissed. The CFIA stated after reviewing marketing materials, they had no objection to 100% dairy-free plant-based cheese. And thus, cooler Canadian heads prevail. Because, of course, most of us can read: labels, ingredients, nutrition information. And, most of us can comprehend the meaning of plant-based when used as a grammatical modifier before other food words. A survey done by the International Food Information Council regarding non-dairy milks, found that the vast majority of Americans absolutely understood that milks labelled plant based did not contain dairy. Duh. So then, what is this really all about? Its about the big bucks. Exclusively. The California based Beyond Meat company went public earlier this month. The stock immediately exploded and the company is currently worth nearly $5 billion US. Its one major success within a market of many other plant-based successes, predicted to be worth over $40 billion in the next decade. Even meat producers know a good idea when they see it, with Tyson Foods one of the biggest in the world announcing it will be selling plant-based protein products come summertime. Canadas own Maple Leaf Foods announced last month it is opening a plant-based protein facility in the U.S. It acquired plant-based LiteLife Foods in January. As consumers grow more and more aware of the detrimental environmental effects of meat and dairy production, the inherent cruelties abundant on industrialized animal farms, and the health concerns associated with consuming animal proteins, our desire for plant-based alternatives also grows. And the cowboys know it. So what does one do when your product is slowly but surely becoming a cultural no-no? You attack and censor your competitor, under the guise of consumer interest. The Canadian Cattlemens Association claim its concern is with keeping nomenclature clear and accurate. But just as meat evolved from the Germanic mete, meaning food of any kind, so too can the modern use of meat, as well as burger, sausage, nugget, etc., evolve to include plant-based proteins. In fact, as author Carol J. Adams explained in a 2018 New York Times piece entitled, There Is Nothing More all-American Than the Veggie Burger, Think of the hamburger as a single-portion protein patty and you locate its predecessors not in the ground horse meat of the conquering Tartars but in falafel, nut cutlets, veggie croquettes and millennium-old Indian-fried, protein-rich lentil or bean patties. What do you think? Meat can mean derived from animal (or, actually, also from the inside of fruits or nuts, like coconut), and plant-based meat can mean derived from plants. Consumers understand. No one is confused. Well, except perhaps animal farmers, about how to effectively protect their sinking ship. Jessica Scott-Reid is a Canadian writer, animal advocate and plant-based food expert. Chris White Canadian Meat Council NO The old saying goes, Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness. After all, most imitations fail to live up to the high quality of the original and when it comes to nomenclature, using terminology that suggests the original and imitation are the same will only serve to confuse consumers. The Canadian government understands this. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency defines meat as a product from an animal carcass. The regulations also say that consumers must not be misled as to the true nature of these simulated meat and simulated poultry products. Therefore, the complete common name Simulated (Naming the meat or poultry) must appear on labels and in advertisements for all simulated meat and poultry products. These clear rules aimed at avoiding consumer confusion should exclude any plant-based product from calling itself meat. A new wave of plant-based companies are hoping to change that dynamic and it makes sense why they aim to use meat terminology: meat is beloved in Canada and around the world. Meat was a prime contributor to the development of the human brain as we evolved and has been nourishing us for millennia. As wealth increases in developing countries, adding meat to the diet is one of the first steps people take. For marketers seeking to make a splash, naming their product after something so ingrained and beloved is a simple way to try to latch on to that products popularity, but it shouldnt involve violating consumer expectation and long-standing government regulations. There are many important differences between meat and plant-based products beyond the basic fact that that meat comes from an animal. At a time when consumers are seeking products with fewer ingredients and are more natural, meat satisfies. A beef hamburger patty is one natural ingredient: beef. The new plant-based products have more than 20 ingredients, many of which are not necessarily recognizable compared to what you would use in your home kitchen. Meat offers excellent nutrition with many important nutrients in our diets including protein, iron, zinc, niacin and more. Animal products are the only natural source of Vitamin B12, a key nutrient for brain development and health. Decades of research shows that meat promotes health and helps prevent human nutrient deficiencies. There are also considerations of protein digestibility. Whereas meat protein is nearly 100 per cent digested, many plant based proteins are not as well digested, so the protein benefits of the plant-based products may be lower depending on the protein source in the product. At a time when so many people are seeking protein in their diets, its a shame if theyre being shortchanged by an imitation. Another important consideration is with the plant-based products, choices are limited. The nutrition you are offered by their formulation is all that is available. With meat, there are more than 20,000 unique choices available in the grocery store and consumers can choose the products that fit their dietary goals and flavour preferences, whether it be low or reduced fat, sodium or organic. Finally, consumers deserve facts about the environmental impacts of products and unfortunately some of the plant-based companies have told a grossly misleading tale. Animals are solar-powered, mobile, self-replicating bioreactors that have been providing meat, milk, fuel, draft power, fibre, and wealth to humanity for millennia. Environmentally, animals play a unique role in our food system because they upgrade inedible plants to high-quality protein. Today, were able to produce more meat using fewer animals, water, land and other resources than ever before. Its a true industry success story that will continue to improve as the industry seeks to improve its environmental footprint. There have been many claims made about the environmental impact of plant-based products with little science to back those up, so its hard to make a true comparison. It is unclear if the plant-based products will be able to maintain what they claim is a limited environmental impact as they work to scale up production. Its flattering that plant-based companies have sought to imitate what nature has perfected. They have a high bar to reach in terms of the quality, taste, nutrition, affordability, range of choices and overall eating experience that meat offers. Consumers deserve facts when purchasing their food and the simple fact backed by Canadian government regulation is that just as meat is not plants, plants are not meat. A firefighter battles a northwest Alberta wildfire as it burns near the town of High Level on Friday, May 24, 2019. About 5,000 people in High Level and surrounding communities have been out of their homes since the long weekend, as the Chuckegg Creek fire rages three kilometres outside the town. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Government of Alberta-Chris Schwarz *MANDATORY CREDIT* Forget drones. The future of deliveries may be robo-vans. A Chinese startup called Neolix kicked off mass production of its self-driving delivery vehicles Friday -- saying it's the first company globally to do so -- and has lined up giants such as JD.Com Inc. and Huawei Technologies Co. as customers. Neolix expects to deliver a thousand of the vehicles, which resemble tiny vans, within the first year as it broadens out. The implications are potentially huge: Billionaire Jack Ma predicts there will be 1 billion deliveries a day in China within a decade and the commercialization of the technology could provide lessons for autonomous vehicles carrying passengers. Neolix isn't alone in this space as Silicon Valley's Nuro raised almost a billion dollars this year and is starting to deliver groceries in Arizona. "Driverless cars will change the world, just like the shift from the carriage to the automobile," Neolix founder Yu Enyuan, 45, said in an interview at his office in Beijing. "I have been looking for something that is worth fighting with everything I have and what I am doing now is that." Yu has been testing more than a hundred of the vehicles in enclosed areas such as Chinese campuses. The vehicles are priced similar to a regular car -- a Neolix van costs about $30,000. The entrepreneur, who was previously and inventor of smart tools for the logistics industry, said delivery of goods is just the start. Down the road, he envisages fleets of robo-vans providing everything from 24/7 mobile vending to help with running errands. His confidence stems from the Chinese e-commerce boom that's spawned Goliaths such as Ma's Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., which is valued at $400 billion. While humans are trying to keep up and becoming more efficient with inventions such as smart lockers, there's no doubt robots are becoming an increasing threat. With robo-vans, there's no need for a messenger who will need a salary, and robo-vehicles are bound to have fewer accidents than humans. One limitation: either a human needs to be present to accept the package, or the vehicle has to leave the parcel at a prearranged accessible location such as a ground-floor locker. One solution proposed by Ford Motor Co. is a small robot that walks on two legs to bring the parcel from the vehicle to the doorstep. While self-driving cars that carry passengers still face significant regulatory obstacles, Yu says the path has been easier for unmanned delivery vehicles. The company's vans are operating in the new Xiongan economic zone about 100 kilometers (60 miles) southwest of Beijing, as well as in limited areas of the capital and the city of Changzhou. China's not the only place where robo-deliveries are emerging. In the U.S., large self-driving trucks are hauling mail between Phoenix and Dallas, and Nuro started a robo-delivery service with grocer Kroger Co. in Scottsdale, Arizona, in December. As to Yu, he decided to expand into driverless vehicles in 2016 from logistics products including smart lockers and digital assistants for delivery personnel. He is the largest shareholder of closely held Neolix. Other investors include Autohome Inc. founder Li Xiang, venture-capital firm Yunqi Partners and Glory Ventures. Neolix's initial production line in the eastern city of Changzhou has an annual capacity of more than 30,000 vehicles, and the company plans to set up factories overseas with partners when sales ramp up, Yu said. Neolix is talking to potential customers in countries including Switzerland, Japan and the U.S. and targets annual sales of 100,000 units in five years. "We want to start with the smallest product," Yu said. "When robotaxis really enter our daily lives, we may already have over a million self-driving delivery vehicles in use, and makers of those vehicles will be a key driver behind the autonomous-driving technology." The men in suits had a message for rapper Meek Mill: He was not allowed to enter the Cosmopolitan hotel in Las Vegas. "We are private property, at this time. With the information we have, we're refusing to do business with you. We have the right to do that," a hotel security staffer said during the incident Saturday. Earlier, another staffer said Mill would be arrested for "trespassing" if he were to enter. "You're telling me I will be arrested if I don't leave. If I walk upstairs and I get something to eat, I'll be arrested. For what? For being a rapper?" Mill shot back in a tense video recorded by his associate. In the video, posted to Twitter and Instagram on Saturday and paired with Mill's accusation that the incident was because he is a black rapper, the hotel staff do not offer a reason Mill was blocked from entry. The hotel later said it was because of overcrowding in a hotel club. "I'm not accusing you of doing anything, man," a hotel staffer said. "I wasn't there, I don't know. This is way bigger than me. Obvious you're somebody." Then, the staffer asked for Mill's associate to stop recording. "No, absolutely not," the associate said. The staff member then noted Nevada's trespassing statutes. Mill will file a lawsuit against the Cosmopolitan this week alleging racial discrimination in violation of state and federal laws, his attorney Joe Tacopina told The Washington Post on Tuesday. He criticized the hotel's defense of overcrowding as the reason Mill was turned away. Mill was at the hotel's main lobby entrance, Tacopina said, not at the club, and was on a list to see his friend DJ Mustard perform. "I am certain no white entertainers or white people were denied access," Tacopina said. "He is a well-known African American hip-hop artist. That is what this is about." There was mention by hotel staff about a previous encounter at the hotel during the exchange, Tacopina said, but the details were unclear. Mill said on Twitter he had once been at the hotel with Jay-Z but said it occurred "without incident." Tacopina said that was about five years ago. In a letter sent to the hotel's general counsel, Anthony Pearl, Tacopina alleged a pattern of racial discrimination. "We have learned that the Cosmopolitan maintains a list of African American recording artists who should be denied access for no other reason than their culture and skin color," Tacopina said. On Tuesday, the Cosmopolitan did not address questions about the existence of such a list and provided a statement attributed to no one within the organization. "The recent situation regarding Meek Mill related to a matter of security, not race, and any reports citing otherwise are false," the hotel said. "Accordingly, when Marquee Dayclub was contacted in advance of Meek Mill's arrival, security staff clarified that he would not be granted access because of capacity issues, in accordance with both club and resort policy." Police had been called earlier to deal with the overcrowding, the hotel said. But it was not clear why the staff speaking with Mill in the video did not provide that information. "If you come from our culture you should never step foot in the cosmopolitan hotel they just really racist as hell," Mill said on Twitter later Saturday. "Something really has to be done in Las Vegas what they doing to black people!" Wosny Lambre, a staff writer at the Atlantic, quoted Mill's tweet. "It's tough to be black, man," Lambre wrote. "And they wonder why some of us lose our cool so quick," Mill replied. "We be tired of being treated this way!" Mill, whose given name is Robert Rihmeek Williams, has become a symbol for criminal justice reform after he was arrested for minor offenses, including performing a dirt bike wheelie without a helmet, that counted as a parole violation following drug and gun charges at age 19. He served eight months then, but was sentenced again in 2017 for two to four years in prison after the dirt bike incident and a separate altercation. He spent four months in jail before the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania ordered that he be granted bail. "What's happening to Meek Mill is just one example of how our criminal justice system entraps and harasses hundreds of thousands of black people every day," Jay-Z wrote in the New York Times after the 2017 sentencing. Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today Partly cloudy this evening, then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 13F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy this evening, then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 13F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. EDITORS NOTE: In recognition of National Historic Preservation Month, local historian Cindy Reinhardt will tell the stories behind some of Edwardsvilles historic buildings in a series of articles during May. The home at 805 St. Louis Street was built for a widow, Martha K. West, in 1889. Until her husbands death in 1887, Martha had lived at what was known as the West homestead at 627 St. Louis Street, but after his death, according to their pre-nuptial agreement of 1880, the house went to one of his children from a previous marriage. Her husband, Edward M. West, was a very wealthy and influential man, and although he did not leave the family homestead to her, he did leave her the lots where she built her new home and ample cash and other investments. While still under construction, the Intelligencer said the cottage of Mrs. M. K. West would be an ornament to the City of Edwardsville. Although it was called a cottage, the new house was said to have cost $4,000, far more than any other house in the Intelligencers listing of new construction for 1889. The typical cost for other houses on the list was $1,000 or less. Construction began in March 1889 and the house was completed by June. It was a beautiful Victorian home with lavish ornamentation on a porch that covered the entire front of the house. Unfortunately, the Victorian porch is gone and the windows drastically changed, but it is still a handsome home. Martha Bailey was born in Randolph County, Illinois, in 1835. She was widowed twice before marrying Edward West in 1880. Her second husband, Dr. Henry Mitchell, was an invalid in the last years of his life, during which time Martha established a successful dress making business with several seamstresses on staff. Martha had no children that survived to adulthood, but was close to many nieces and nephews. Born in Virginia in 1814, Edward Mitchell West came to Illinois with his parents in 1818. At a young age he left home to work in the recorders office in Springfield. He then secured a clerks position at the land office in Edwardsville. From there he used money saved from his salary to open a store where by industry, fair-dealing, pleasant manners and prompt attention to all the details(he) built up the largest trade in town. He was so respected that he was elected as the areas representative to the Illinois State Constitutional Convention of 1848. In 1868, with his son-in-law William Prickett, he established the banking firm of West and Prickett which eventually became The Bank of Edwardsville. Edward was married to his first wife, Julia Atwater West for almost 50 years until her death in 1877. Together they had three children that survived to adulthood, Virginia (Mrs. William) Prickett, Mary (Mrs. W. F. L.) Hadley and Nora (Mrs. Oscar) Taylor. Virginia died in a tragic accident before Edwards marriage to Martha and Noras family moved to Idaho, but Martha was close with the Hadleys who lived across the street at what is today School District #7s Hadley House. Edward and Martha were married in 1880, and although Martha was more than 20 years younger than Edward, the couple had much in common. Both were fond of literature and cultural pursuits and enjoyed spending winters in Florida. They were long-time members of St. Johns Methodist Church where Edward sometimes preached and Martha taught lessons and belonged to numerous womens organizations. In connection with the church, both were dedicated to the temperance movement which would become a major part of Marthas life. The Womens Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) was founded in 1874 in Ohio. By 1879, it was active in Madison County where Martha was one of the original organizers. Although some mistakenly view WCTU as being strictly dedicated to the prohibition of alcohol, in reality, from the early 1890s the WCTU encompassed many other womens social issues, including the womens suffrage movement, reform of labor laws, womens shelters, womens marital rights, and issues still of concern today like the fight for equal pay for equal work. Martha served as president of both the local and district WCTU unions for many years. She was proud of the fact that she attended one world, five national, 14 state and 15 district conventions and institutes. She was often a speaker at these conventions and was considered a leader in her district. In 1897, WCTU gave the following description of Martha, Mrs. M. K. West, of Edwardsville, is the President of the 18th District of the Illinois Womens Christian Temperance Union. She is the mother-in-law of our good ex-Congressman Hadley. Mrs. West does not pretend to oratory. She is a woman of very quiet manners and few words, but every word counts. She is wise, kind and persistent. There is blessing and honor to those wisely and honestly co-operating with her. At Mrs. Wests home in Edwardsville the WCTU has recently added 37 new members to their ranks. Martha was also among the first women to run for office and vote in Edwardsville when local elections were first opened to women in 1892. She ran for a position on the school board, and although she lost, she had a respectable showing of 109 votes. (There were only 20 women who voted.) Martha sold her home on St. Louis Street in 1905. After that, she spent much of her time in California and Florida, but always considered Edwardsville her home. She died at the home of her niece, Ione Sanders, on St. Andrews Place in Edwardsville on March 4, 1919, just after passage of the 18th Amendment prohibiting the consumption of alcohol. Although an invalid in her final weeks, Martha closely watched the ratification process of this social issue she had worked towards for so many years. She did not live to see passage of the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote, but the fight for womens suffrage was achieved less than two years after Marthas death. The house on St. Louis Street had a number of owners after Martha, some short term, but there were two additional families that owned the house for longer stretches of time. Charles and Olive Sheppard purchased the house in 1908. Although the home stayed in the family until 1945, it was not always occupied by them. Olive Sheppard died after complications in surgery in June 1927 and her husband, Charles, Edwardsvilles City Engineer, died in an automobile accident 18 months later. Their children kept the house after Charles died, but leased it to other families for nearly 20 years. The third long-term owner of the house was an SIUE Art professor and his wife, Harry and Estelle Hilberry. They purchased the house in 1965 and occupied the house well into the 1990s. When reviewing a list of occupants of this house, it is noticeable that they all had occupations that indicate they were intellectuals. However, Martha K. West, the homes original owner, stands out. She was a woman ahead of her time who worked diligently over many years to improve the lives of women everywhere. Information for this article was obtained from resources at the Madison County Archival Library, the Madison County Recorder and Probate Offices, Edwardsville Public Library and from the current owner. If you have questions about this article, contact Cindy Reinhardt at 618-656-1294 or cynreinhardt@yahoo.com. Rep. Abigail Spanberger had been in Congress for six days when she marched to the microphone in a meeting of fellow Democrats and informed the leadership that demonizing the border wall wasn't the way to keep control of the House. "Listen, in my district I am hearing, 'Build a wall!' In my district we are losing the messaging that Democrats can be strong on borders," said the 39-year-old from the Richmond, Virginia, suburbs, according to the congresswoman and others who were there. It was a critical moment for Spanberger, one of dozens of new Democratic lawmakers from red districts who helped their party seize control of the House last year. These members will have to win reelection if the party is to hold the chamber in 2020. They face a double challenge: Not only do they have to strike a balance between loyalty to the Democratic Party and fidelity to their more conservative districts, but they also have to fight the leftward tug of progressives who want universal health care, impeachment of President Trump and a Green New Deal. Spanberger and the other moderates must find ways to separate themselves from a freshman class defined by lawmakers such as Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, proud members of the Democratic Socialists of America. "It's a tough tightrope act [Spanberger] has to perform," said Mark Rozell, dean of the Schar School of Public Policy and Government at George Mason University. "She has to stay politically centered as much as possible, given the nature of her district, while at the same time work effectively with her party leadership who are pushing a more progressive agenda." As she fights the pull of the progressives and learns her way around Congress, Spanberger already faces a Republican opponent - Tina Ramirez, a Hispanic single mother and activist in the cause of religious freedom. That puts Spanberger on an immediate campaign footing, just six months after she beat Rep. Dave Brat, R, in Virginia's 7th Congressional District by emphasizing her national security background, independence and civility. In her first weeks in office, she visited the White House with Democratic and Republican members of the Problem Solvers Caucus to discuss ending the government shutdown that had begun in December. She signed on to letters and legislation spearheaded by Republicans. She voted against House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California, whom Brat and other Republicans frequently invoked during the 2018 campaign as embodying a liberal elite. Still, some Republican voters remain wary. "She had portrayed herself as somewhat independent - I don't have the impression she is exactly what she has sold herself as," said Paul Johnson, a Brat voter who was dismayed that Spanberger voted for H.R. 1, legislation containing measures including restricting partisan gerrymandering, creating automatic voter registration, making Election Day a federal holiday and requiring super PACs to disclose donors. "She is going to have to be very, very careful about siding with Nancy Pelosi, taking some of these extreme positions, taking rights away from the states." On a rainy Saturday in April, Spanberger made her first visit to a NASCAR track, the Richmond Raceway, which funnels millions of dollars into the local economy and tends to draw fans who lean conservative. "I heard you like to shoot," the security manager, a former police officer named Chris Alberta, said to Spanberger, who spent eight years as a CIA agent. "I do," she said, her thumbs hooked in the front pockets of her jeans. "So do we," he said with a chuckle. Later, under an elaborate tailgating tent, retired beer distributor Chris Williams offered cans of cold Miller Lite. "Don't be bashful now," he said. "We have a special on those today. Buy one for the price of two, you get the second one absolutely free." It was 1 o'clock in the afternoon, and Spanberger accepted a beer. He noticed. Williams told Spanberger that he voted for Brat but appreciated that she voted against Pelosi for speaker. "That was encouraging," he said. "Say all you want to about Trump - he's crazy as a loon, no question about that - but at least he's trying to do the things he promised people he was going to do. Whether it's right or wrong or in between, I don't know." In a phone call a few weeks later, Williams said he would consider voting for Spanberger if she upheld "Virginia conservative values." At times, she has supported Republican-led amendments, to the chagrin of Democrats, as when she and 26 other moderate Democrats helped Republicans amend a bill to expand federal background checks for gun purchases. They added a provision that says U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement must be notified when an illegal immigrant seeks to purchase a firearm. "It's incumbent on all of us to give her the room she needs to do the art of the possible for her district," Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va., said. Loosely quoting Pelosi, he said, "We didn't take back the House winning blue seats." Spanberger wants to position herself as a pragmatist, compromising to effect change gradually. "If we are just driven by ideology, we will achieve nothing for the people who actually need it," she said during an interview interrupted by well-wishers at a coffee shop in her district. She pointed to Brat, the Republican she defeated, noting his membership in the conservative House Freedom Caucus, which she said repeatedly sabotaged efforts at compromise when Republicans controlled the House. Brat's hard-line approach, combined with his cool relations with supporters of former House majority leader Eric Cantor, whom he defeated in a nasty 2014 GOP primary, made his last term rocky. His relationships with Democrats were toxic, especially after he complained that "the women are in my grill no matter where I go" in part because he refused to hold town halls after Trump's election. When he finally relented, he faced angry crowds. Spanberger, on the other hand, has held five subdued town halls in her first four months. During the campaign, she bonded with other first-time candidates with similar national security backgrounds. The nine new lawmakers with security backgrounds coordinated their choices in the office lottery so that they work near each other. The women in the group are particularly close and text one another often. They are Democratic Reps. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, who worked at the CIA; Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania, an Air Force veteran; Elaine Luria of Virginia, a retired Navy commander; and Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey, a former Navy helicopter pilot and federal prosecutor. They all flipped red seats to blue and understand the delicate politics of swing districts. "We come from places where different ideologies live side by side," Houlahan said, "and we have a real responsibility to legislate that way. I feel like the narrative is that the Democratic Party has been hijacked by the left." To Spanberger, the liberal goal of transforming the complicated health-care system into a single government-financed program simply isn't realistic. She cited the Affordable Care Act, still the subject of GOP ire a decade after it became law, as evidence that muscling legislation through can backfire. Instead, she thinks small steps can make health care more affordable: Allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices, insist on transparency from pharmacy benefit managers, and ease the passage of generic drugs into the market. She is one of nine co-sponsors of the House version of Medicare-X, a plan from Democratic Sens. Tim Kaine of Virginia and Michael Bennet of Colorado that would allow all Americans to buy into public health insurance. Spanberger also opposes the Green New Deal, a broad set of goals to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. "What's really challenging is it's been presented to the American people as if it's policy," she said. "There are literally people who think if we were to vote on this tomorrow, we could save our planet." Spanberger, who leads the House agriculture subcommittee on conservation and forestry - a rare honor for a freshman and in a field she said remains a mystery to her - is studying how climate change affects farmers. Environmental activists in her district seem unfazed by her opposition to the Green New Deal. Lee Francis, deputy director at the Virginia League of Conservation Voters, said he appreciates her opposition to offshore drilling and her desire that the United States rejoin the Paris climate agreement. (Spanberger also announced that she recently had solar panels installed on her home.) "Democracy is slow," Francis said. "That's just the nature of the beast." Spanberger had not seriously considered running for public office until a friend and former CIA colleague, Charlotte McWilliams, sent her a link to Emerge America, a program that trains female candidates. The experts encouraged her to run for school board, but Spanberger followed her instinct to aim higher. In a recommendation letter that McWilliams wrote to Emerge about Spanberger, she said their CIA training was "designed to be a pressure cooker" and that "Abby never lost her cool." Spanberger served undercover for her entire career in the CIA, where she worked on counterterrorism and nuclear proliferation. She and McWilliams each had three children in their CIA years. At the racetrack, Spanberger climbed into a Toyota sedan at the invitation of the car company. The doors clicked shut. In an instant, her driver hit the gas. The car peeled out and turned hard around tight corners. Spanberger's blond hair swung from side to side as the car jerked and shuddered, but she barely seemed to notice. The car stopped short, and she asked: "Do I get to go again?" "I think so," the driver said, unaware she had been through far worse in CIA training. "Yes!" she responded. Later, she rode in the pace car on the banked three-quarter-mile, D-shaped track. That same unflappability was on display during her first town hall. The rec center in rural Goochland was packed with Brat supporters who quizzed her on abortion, socialism and "sanctuary cities," although there are none in Virginia. "I know there's quite a few people in the room who didn't vote for me, and I thank you . . . very sincerely for challenging me, because the bottom line in a district like this, it is a 50-50 district. People like to say, 'Oh, we flipped the district.' " She added as an aside, "Democrats like to say that." But the composition of the district did not change, she said. "We worked hard to get people to give me a chance, and what that means is that I work for everybody," she said. She said she's also working to gain the trust of Republicans in Congress, using some of the skills that she honed at the CIA. First, she looks for a connection. She'll sometimes enter the House floor through the GOP section, which allows her to stop and chat with members of the other party. If they're from rural communities, she tries to connect over common issues, such as the scarcity of broadband Internet service. But for every Republican she wins over, more hope to unseat her. In addition to Ramirez, GOP observers name state lawmakers Nicholas Freitas of Culpeper, John McGuire of Henrico and Bryce Reeves of Spotsylvania as potential challengers. National Republican groups are painting Spanberger as no different from Ocasio-Cortez. "She'll find out the hard way that there are two teams," Corry Bliss, a Republican strategist and former executive director of the Congressional Leadership Fund, said of Spanberger. "There aren't three teams. Even voting with her team 90 percent of the time may not be good enough to get reelected." Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., a progressive on the leadership team, isn't worried. "She's old-school Virginia," he said. "She's interested in rational debate and discussion to make progress. . . . She's not an ideologue." He added: "To me, she's the face of the swing districts that we need to capture and defend." ALTON A federal grand jury for the Southern District of Illinois has indicted an Alton woman, accusing her of cashing her deceased mothers social security checks. Mia Lynn Cousett, 32, is charged with 12 counts of theft of government funds and one count of aggravated identity theft. The indictment alleges that the funds stolen were social security checks payable to Cousetts mother, who died in April 2017. SPRINGFIELD The Illinois Senate has approved a bill by state Sen. Rachelle Crowe, D-Glen Carbon, providing stricter consequnces for people convicted of assault or battery in places of worship. This measure is initiating protections for people to worship freely without fear, Crowe said. We must take action against those who instigate attacks on churches, mosques and synagogues, and also seek more severe punishment for them. Winchester Cemetery was the scene of just one of many Memorial Day services in the area Monday honoring American service members and their sacrifice. Deacon Kim Scott, of St. Mark Catholic church, spoke and led a prayer recognizing those who served. They follow in the footsteps of many great Americans past and present, Scott said. He recalled making a decoration to take to the grave of his grandfather, who was a World War I veteran, in the days when it was called decoration day. We have given decorations to these fallen soldiers, added their names to landmarks and named structures for them to honor their sacrifice on behalf of this country and us, Scott said. But nothing can close the hole left by a fallen soldier and no number of stripes or awards can comfort those that are left behind by their sacrifice. Your presence here is a living tribute to those lost troops and their families. The service included a flag raising ceremony, a gun salute and the playing of taps. Korean War veteran Gary Evans Leib remembers his uncles and great grandfather and decorates their graves each Memorial Day. They were servicemen and among his family members buried at Winchester Cemetery. I dont know, Ive just been doing it since I was a little kid, Leib said. Ive lived all over in Alabama and Texas, California and the east coast but whenever I was back here home, I always tried to be out here. From the time I was just a little kid. Leib, 90, is retired and back home in Winchester. But in 1948, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was eventually assigned to an aircraft carrier, the USS Boxer, according to his interviews for an oral history project of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library. Leib said he served three tours in the Korean War, but didnt want to say much about his time there. He received a citation for bravery after explosions and a fire on the USS Boxer in 1952, according to the library. He saved nine lives on the ship. I was just fortunate that I was able to rescue a few of my guys when my ship was burning off the coast of the Korean (peninsula), Leib said. EDWARDSVILLE An East St. Louis man faces a felony weapons charge after he was found in possession of a handgun Tuesday by Edwardsville Police. Emmett Crowell, 49, was charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, a Class 4 non-probationable felony. According to court documents, on Tuesday Crowell allegedly was in possession of a loaded weapon and did not have a valid concealed carry license or Firearm Owners Identification Card. His bail was set at $20,000. Other felony charges filed Tuesday by the Madison County States Attorneys Office included: Raymond W. Austin, 45, of Edwardsville, was charged with disorderly conduct, a Class 4 felony. According to court documents, Austin on May 24 made a false 911 call to the Glen Carbon Police Department requesting an ambulance, EMTs or paramedics knowing that no medical assistance was required. Bail was set at $25,000. Clifford D. Collier, 43, of Granite City, was charged with offenses relating to a motor vehicle, a Class 2 felony. According to court documents, on May 25 Glen Carbon Police found Collier allegedly in possession of a stolen 2008 Buick Lucerne. Bail was set at $75,000. Donte D. Fuller, 37, of Glen Carbon, was charged with driving while license revoked, a Class 4 felony. According to court documents, Glen Carbon Police on May 24 found Fuller driving on Glen Carbon Road with a revoked license. He has a previous conviction for DUI and driving with a revoked license. Bail was set at $15,000. Christopher M. Cherry, 33, of Alton, was charged with unlawful possession of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony. According to court records, on May 27 Madison County Sheriffs deputies allegedly found Cherry in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine. Bail was set at $20,000. Anthony R. Ashbrook, 41, of Affton, Missouri, was charged with retail theft under $300 (second subsequent offense), which is a Class 4 felony. According to court documents Ashbrook allegedly took electronics from the Godfrey Walmart and has a previous conviction for stealing in St. Louis County. Bail was set at $15,000. Matthew A. Yost, 36, of Cottage Hills, was charged with unlawful failure to register as a sex offender. According to court documents, Yost on May 27 failed to register within three days of changing his address. According to the Illinois Sex Offender database, Yost had prior convictions for grooming and criminal sexual abuse out of Jersey County and was listed as a sexual predator. Bail was set at $20,000. Ousted Austrian leader Sebastian Kurz started his campaign to take back the chancellery on Monday hours after his estranged coalition partners in the nationalist Freedom Party joined the opposition in a vote to dismiss him. The youngest Austrian head of government also became the shortest-serving and the first to be thrown out of office since the country was reconstituted after World War II. President Alexander Van der Bellen appointed Finance Minister Hartwig Loeger acting chancellor on Tuesday. An interim administration will be named in the coming week that can govern until snap elections are held in September. Speaking to supporters at his conservative People's Party's academy near Schoenbrunn Castle on Monday, the 32-year-old Kurz was defiant and confident that voters will return him to power in the election. "Parliament decided today but at the end of the day, in September, in a democracy the people decide," he said two hours after losing the vote in parliament. "I'm looking forward to that." The reversal of fortune for Kurz, seen as a fresh conservative Wunderkind among Europe's leaders, may only be temporary. The defeat came just a day after his party surged to a decisive victory in Austria in the European parliamentary elections. It netted record support and came in first as the opposition failed to capitalize on the week-old scandal that ensnared his nationalist vice-chancellor and threw the government into disarray. The opposition Social Democrats and the nationalists, politically far apart but both resentful of Kurz's self-serving style of governance, ultimately couldn't resist toppling him, even as they risk antagonizing voters who didn't want the chancellor replaced. They're gambling that separating Kurz from the symbolic trappings of office will even their campaigns in the weeks ahead. "With more than three months to go, it is too early to call the outcome, but as we have learned over the years, Austrian politics never ceases to amaze," said Inga Fechner, an economist at ING. Van der Bellen's options for the interim government include naming senior civil servants, retired politicians or judges that command respect across the party spectrum. Loeger's appointment happened in time for him to take part in the European Union summit in Brussels. Since taking power in 2017, Kurz has tried to show conservatives across Europe that they can achieve goals by working with their nationalist rivals. But the collapse of his coalition has served rather to highlights the risks of getting into bed with a party that has spent much of its time on the fringes of the mainstream. Local lawmakers voted along party lines Monday to advance a constitutional amendment that would allow the General Assembly set higher tax rates on greater amounts of income. After more than three hours of debate, in which all 44 House Republicans spoke on the floor, the vote cleared its constitutionally mandated three-fifths majority by two votes, 73-44. All 73 representatives voting in favor were Democrats. The measure, billed as the Fair Tax by Democrats, will go to voters in the November 2020 election. State Rep. Monica Bristow, D-Alton, said her vote reflected her commitment to fight for lower taxes for the middle class, resources that prepare people in our community for high-wage jobs, and affordable health care. Cutting through all the spin on both sides, the truth is the middle class bears too much of a burden under our current tax system, and the Fair Tax offers modest tax relief for the vast majority of people in the Metro East, she said. Thats an important first step. State Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwarsville, also called the bill a necessary first step in building a stronger Illinois by building a stronger middle class. Instead of supporting tax hikes and other outrageous proposals like a mileage tax, I supported a Fair Tax plan that will cut taxes for 98.2 percent of families here in our local communities, Stuart said. The Fair Tax plan I fought for is a critical first step to help balance the state budget, invest in a growing economy that creates high-wage jobs, and move Illinois forward after four years of partisan gridlock. Democrats said the graduated tax is needed to stabilizing Illinois state finances without cutting funding for programs such as education or services for the states most needy. Republicans said the bill more likely provided incentive for the states wealthiest taxpayers and job creators to leave, and warned that taxpayers do not trust Springfield Democrats to spend their money wisely. Assistant Republican Leader C.D. Davidsmeyer, R-Jacksonville, said the graduated tax proposal is like a fairy tale where someone else pays the bill, but we all know there is no such thing as a free lunch. What this tax will do is force wealthy Illinoisans out of state, taking their businesses with them, thus leaving the tax responsibility to the middle class, along with less job opportunities for each and every one of us, Davidsmeyer said. Raising taxes on the people of Illinois is not the answer to our problems, he said. We must change the way we operate in this state. Davidsmeyer said House Democrats have proposed an additional $12 billion in new spending just in the last 4 months, while the income tax increase is expected to bring in an additional $3.5 billion. Basic math tells me that they will be coming back to each and every one of us asking for more, he said. Their appetite for more spending and bigger government will never go away. This tax increases doesnt even cover new spending proposed this year. When a business loses customers do they raise their prices? No; they lower prices and invest into better products to attract customers, he said. Like a business with an old product, Illinois is losing population because people dont like the product Illinois is providing. We must change, pass reforms, and turn Illinois into a better product for our constituents. The tax question will appear on the November 2020 presidential election. Either 60 percent of those voting on the question or the majority of those voting in the election will have to support the measure for it to become law. An extensive advertising campaign on both sides of the issue has already begun and is expected to continue for the next 18 months. GERMANY - Angela Merkel decides her chosen successor isn't up to the job. 585 words, by Arne Delfs and Patrick Donahue (Bloomberg). One photo. Angela Merkel has given up hope on her heir apparent and is hunkering down in office in the face of growing turmoil in Germany's ruling party. Since taking over as leader of the Christian Democratic Union in December, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer slid in opinion polls, roiled the party with a failed effort to accelerate Merkel's exit, and on Sunday oversaw the CDU's worst ever result in a national election. All that has persuaded Merkel that Kramp-Karrenbauer may not be up to the job, according to two officials with knowledge of her thinking. As a result, the chancellor is more determined than ever to stay in power until her term ends in 2021, the officials said. Kramp-Karrenbauer's failure to grasp the baton leaves Germany's governing party flailing as the leadership prepares to meet June 2 and 3 to pore over the losses in the European Union election. It's likely to be an awkward encounter between the chancellor and her one-time protegee: AKK, as Kramp-Karrenbauer is known, convened the session without warning Merkel and the officials say it was designed to put pressure on the chancellor to move aside. AKK has also alienated the chancellor by reaching out to her conservative enemies within the CDU. Merkel has resolved to spend no more political capital helping AKK, the officials said. But her ability to change the party's direction is limited now that she has handed over control of the machinery. The chancellor is expecting to come under more pressure to step aside as AKK's political problems mount, they added. The direction of the party is completely open again, one official said, and what happens after 2021 is entirely uncertain. With AKK's chances of claiming the chancellorship fading, the contest to select the CDU's candidate for 2021 becomes a rerun of last year's succession battle. Merkel's moderate faction thought they had won when AKK claimed the party leadership in December but the chancellor's ability to influence that process will be much reduced second time around. That could open the door to the conservative Friedrich Merz or the liberal Armin Laschet. AKK's approval rating slipped three points to 36 perfect in the latest poll by public broadcaster ARD released May 2. That's the lowest since she became party leader and almost 20 points behind Merkel. AKK was supposed to provide fresh leadership and an electoral bounce for the CDU after 18 years of Merkel's leadership. Instead, support for the party and its Bavarian sister the CSU fell seven percentage points in the EU election, to below 30 percent. Many voters defected to the Greens, which doubled their backing to more than 20 percent. AKK has proved prone to stumbles. An off-color joke about transsexuals at a local festival put moderates on alert. Her latest mistake came in the aftermath of Sunday's election. When a YouTube video attacking the CDU became a viral sensation, AKK accused the 70 web activists who endorsed the clip of wielding undue influence and was forced onto the defensive following a wave of criticism. She tweeted on Monday that it was "absurd to accuse me of wanting to regulate statements of opinion." If nothing else, the episode highlighted the CDU's desperate attempts to reach younger voters with its own forays into the digital realm. As of Tuesday, the video by a blue-haired moderator known as Rezo has been viewed more than 12 million times since it hit the web May 18. --- Bloomberg's Raymond Colitt contributed to this story. WEST ALTON The Mississippi River will crest next week just above the 1973 flood, according to the latest predictions by the National Weather Service. This comes as residents of West Alton east of U.S. 67 on were told to start leaving the area now because of a controlled release along Riverlands Way at 7 p.m. Monday. The National Weather Service has revised the expected crest of the Mississippi River at Alton to top the 1973 flood. As of 4 p.m. Monday the river was at 35.27 feet; it is expected to crest at 37 feet at 7 p.m. June 2. This would be the third highest crest recorded, topping the 36.89-foot crest of April 28, 1973. At about 2:30 p.m. Monday, West Alton residents were warned about a planned breach and told they needed to leave the affected areas immediately. The release will be initiated along Riverlands Way, according to a statement from the Rivers Pointe Fire Protection District. This area is a natural spillway and the release will be more controlled. If you are not in a flood ready home you need to get out of the area. Fire district personnel went door-to-door Monday evening contacting residents. Earlier Monday, residents in Portage Des Sioux were advised to get important items, loved ones and pets to a safe place, and that if the levee overtops or breaches, all roadways in that area will be affected. At the foot of State Street in Alton, Public Works employees were placing rock and gravel against the flood wall, after water starting coming through on Monday. Several heavy generators were in operation. Other generators were operating pumps on Third Street, and numerous individual buildings were pumping out water Monday evening. City workers at the scene said they expected to be extending the flood wall over the next few days. Reach reporter Scott Cousins at 618-208-6447. SYDNEY/BRISBANE, May 28 (Reuters) - Papua New Guinea's lawmakers gathered on Tuesday for a crucial sitting of parliament, with opponents vowing to topple the government of Prime Minister Peter O'Neill, who clings on despite promising to resign three days ago. Additional police patrolled the capital of Port Moresby ahead of the session at which, O'Neill's opponents say, they will command a majority they plan to demonstrate with a vote to change the speaker of the house. "(This) is enough for us to move into government," deputy opposition leader Timothy Masiu said by text message from the Laguna Hotel, where the opposition has been based for weeks, as he prepared to leave for parliament. It was not immediately clear how that would proceed, or if the opposition would then be able to carry out its plans for a no-confidence motion, a procedure O'Neill has challenged in court. O'Neill is resisting calls to formally quit before the challenge is heard on Friday. His spokesman said he expected a rowdy question-time "but not much else" on Tuesday. Powes Parkop, a lawmaker who has stayed loyal to the government, said he was confident the speaker would not change. Instability is not unusual in the South Pacific archipelago and it has not held back mining and energy investment in the resource-rich nation. But protests over the benefits failing to reach poverty-stricken rural areas have dogged the government, sapping support from the ruling coalition. O'Neill himself resisted calls to resign for weeks but said on Sunday he would quit in favour of Sir Julius Chan, a two-time former national leader. GAS GO-AHEAD Analysts say the political turbulence will delay resource projects on the drawing board, putting a cloud over plans, with oil majors exposed to PNG, Total SA and ExxonMobil Corp, watching closely. The uncertainty knocked shares in Oil Search Ltd, a partner of the majors in large liquefied natural gas developments there, on Monday. However the head of another development partner, Santos Ltd dismissed analysts' concerns that final investment decisions on LNG expansion could be pushed out beyond their 2020 targets. "There's no indication that the PNG government want to delay anything," Kevin Gallagher, the chief executive of Santos, told reporters at an energy industry conference in Brisbane. "I'm confident that whoever forms the government or whoever leads the PNG government will continue to support development like we've seen for 10 years-plus now in PNG - very stable government, very development-focused government." He declined to predict what will happen with the leadership but said even the opposition was focused on gas development. "They are very development and growth-focused. So I wouldn't expect any delay. There's no indications anybody wants to slow anything down. I think on the contrary they are all very positive on expansion and development." He added that he thought the PNG LNG partners, led by ExxonMobil, would be able to stick to a previously flagged schedule to enter preliminary engineering planning for the expansion project within the next few months. (Reporting by Tom Westbrook in SYDNEY and Sonali Paul in BRISBANE; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) BUCHAREST, May 28 (Reuters) - Here are news stories, press reports and events to watch which may affect Romanian financial markets on Tuesday. CRIMINAL CODE Romania's Constitutional Court meets to discuss challenges brought by the centrist opposition and President Klaus Iohannis against changes made to the criminal code by the ruling coalition. COURT VERDICT The leader of Romania's ruling Social Democrats Liviu Dragnea began a three-and-a-half year prison sentence on Monday after the Supreme Court upheld a graft conviction one day after his party lost a European election to centrist groupings. -Senior ruling Social Democrats hold two meetings on Tuesday, at 0800 GMT and 1500 GMT on Tuesday to assess new leadership plans. DEBT TENDER Romania's finance ministry sold a more than planned 746.7 million lei ($175.69 million) worth of June 2023 treasury bonds on Monday, with the average accepted yield at 4.33%, central bank data showed. CEZ Czech utility CEZ plans to sell assets in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Poland in order to focus on its home market, the chief executive told the daily Hospodarske Noviny. Shareholders in CEZ, which is 70 percent owned by the state, would vote on the new strategy at the annual general meeting on June 26, Benes said. CEE MARKETS Central European currencies moved sideways on Monday on a quiet day of trading untroubled by any shocks from EU parliament elections, while shares in Czech utility CEZ gained slightly as it announced a plan to sell foreign assets. IMF A mission of the International Monetary Fund led by Jaewoo Lee began a two-week visit to Bucharest on Monday for Article IV consultations and will hold a news conference on June 7. For other related news, double click on: --------------------------------------------------------------- Romanian equities RO-E E.Europe equities .CEE Romanian money RO-M Romanian debt RO-D Eastern Europe EEU All emerging markets EMRG Hot stocks HOT Stock markets STX Market debt news DBT Forex news FRX For real-time index quotes, double click on: Bucharest BETI Warsaw WIG20 Budapest BUX Prague PX ------------------------------------------------------ The following companies are subsidiares of Reliance Steel & Aluminum: AMI Metals Aero Services Ankara Havaclk Anonim Sirketi, AMI Metals Europe SPRL, AMI Metals Inc., AMI Metals UK Limited, Acero Prime S. de R.L. de C.V., Airport Metals, Alaska Steel Company, Alaska Steel Company, Aleaciones Especiales de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., All Metal Services (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., All Metal Services India Private Limited, All Metal Services Limited, All Metal Services Ltd., All Metals Holding, All Metals Processing & Logistics Inc., All Metals Transportation and Logistics Inc., Allegheny Steel Distributors Inc., American Metals Corporation, Best Manufacturing Inc. an Arkansas corporation, Bralco Metals (Australia) Pty Ltd, CCC Steel Inc., Chapel Steel Canada Ltd., Chapel Steel Corp., Chatham Steel Corporation, Clayton Metals Inc., Continental Alloys & Services (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Continental Alloys & Services Limited, Continental Alloys & Services Pte. Ltd., Continental Alloys Middle East FZE, Crest Steel Corporation, Delta Steel Inc., Diamond Manufacturing Company, DuBose National Energy Fasteners & Machined Parts, DuBose National Energy Fasteners & Machined Parts Inc., DuBose National Energy Services, DuBose National Energy Services, Durrett Sheppard Steel Co. Inc., Earle M. Jorgensen Company, FastMetals Inc., Feralloy Corporation, Ferguson Perforating Company, Ferguson Perforating Company, Fox Metals And Alloys, Fox Metals and Alloys Inc., Fry Steel, Fry Steel Company, GH Metal Solutions, GH Metal Solutions Inc., Haskins Steel, Infra-Metals Co., KMS FAB LLC, KMS Fab, KMS South, KMS South Inc., Liebovich Bros. Inc., McKey Perforating, Merfish United, Metals USA, Metals USA Inc., Metalweb Limited, National Specialty Alloys, National Specialty Alloys Inc., Northern Illinois Steel Supply Co, Northern Illinois Steel Supply Co., PDM Steel Service Centers Inc., Pacific Metal Company, Phoenix Corporation, Precision Flamecutting and Steel Inc., Precision Strip Inc., Reliance Metalcenter Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Reliance Metals Canada Limited, Service Steel Aerospace Corp. a Delaware corporation, Siskin Steel & Supply Company Inc., Sugar Steel Corporation, Sunbelt Steel Texas, Tubular Steel, Tubular Steel Inc., Valex Corp., Valex Korea Co. Ltd., Valex Semiconductor Materials (Zhejiang) Co. Ltd., Viking Materials Inc., and Yarde Metals Inc.. The Williams Cos., Inc. operates as an energy infrastructure company, which explores, produces, transports, sells and processes natural gas and petroleum products. It operates through the following segments: Transmission and Gulf of Mexico; Northeast G&P; and West. The Transmission and Gulf of Mexico segment comprises of interstate natural gas pipelines, Transco and Northwest Pipeline, as well as natural gas gathering and processing and crude oil production handling and transportation assets in the Gulf Coast region. The Northeast G&P segment includes midstream gathering, processing, and fractionation businesses in the Marcellus Shale region primarily in Pennsylvania and New York, and the Utica Shale region of eastern Ohio. The West segment consists of gas gathering, processing, and treating operations in the Rocky Mountain region of Colorado and Wyoming, the Barnett Shale region of north-central Texas, the Eagle Ford Shale region of south Texas, the Haynesville Shale region of northwest Louisiana, and the Mid-Continent region which includes the Anadarko, Arkoma, and Permian basins. The company was founded by David Williams and Miller Williams in 1908 and is headquartered in Tulsa, Read More 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. 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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. RTL Group SA operates television (TV) channels and radio stations worldwide. It operates in six segments: Mediengruppe RTL Deutschland, Groupe M6, Fremantle, RTL Nederland, RTL Belgium, and Others. The company's TV channels include RTL Television in Germany, M6 in France, RTL 4 in the Netherlands, and RTL-TVI in Belgium. It also has broadcasting operations, such as RTL Klub, RTL II, and six cable channels in Hungary; and RTL Televizija, RTL 2, and RTL Kockica in Croatia and Luxembourg, as well as interests in Atresmedia in Spain. In addition, the company operates eight video on-demand (VOD) platforms; and VOD platforms comprising the advertising financed services that include 6play in France, RTL Play in Belgium and Croatia, RTL Most in Hungary, RTL XL in the Netherlands, and Atresplayer in Spain. Further, it operates its flagship radio station is RTL Radio in France, as well as owns or has interests in stations, which comprise 104.6 RTL and Antenne Bayern in Germany; Bel RTL and Radio Contact in Belgium; Onda Cero, Europa FM, and Melodia FM in Spain; and RTL Radio Letzebuerg and Eldoradio in Luxembourg, as well as creates, produces, and distributes television content that range from talent and game shows to drama, daily soaps, and telenovelas. Additionally, the company invests in multi-channel networks, including BroadbandTV, StyleHaul, Divimove, and United Screens; and operates SpotX, which offers ad-tech investment services, as well as Clypd and Videoamp. It has interests in 60 television channels and 30 radio stations. The company was founded in 1924 and is headquartered in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg. RTL Group SA is a subsidiary of Bertelsmann Capital Holding GmbH. Read More (CNN) German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said "there is work to be done" in Germany to face up to the dark forces that are finding mainstream support there and in other parts of the world. "In Germany, obviously, they always have to be seen in a certain context, in the context of our past, which means we have to be that much more vigilant than others," she said. Speaking exclusively to CNN's Christiane Amanpour a day after the European elections, where nationalists failed to live up to a forecasted surge in support, Merkel said we have to face-up "to the specters of the past." "We have to tell our young people what history has brought over us and others." In recent days, German Jews were warned by a leading government official not to wear kippahs in public, following a rise in anti-Semitic attacks. Addressing the rise in anti-Semitism, Merkel said that Germany has "always had a certain number of anti-Semites among us, unfortunately." "There is to this day not a single Synagogue not a single daycare center for Jewish children, not a single school for Jewish children that does not need to be guarded by German policemen," she added. Merkel, who has been Chancellor for more than 13 years and outlasted many global leaders, has shouldered much of the blame for Europe's populist wave, with some pinning the spike in support for the far-right, anti-Islam Alternative for Germany (AfD) on her handling of the European refugee crisis. The Chancellor again defended her decision to allow nearly 1 million refugees into Germany, saying that the best way to manage immigration in the wake of humanitarian crises, like those in Syria and Iraq, was not to "shut ourselves off from each other," but to be more "vigilant" in making sure that refugees fleeing these countries are "sufficiently cared for." That the forecasted far-right surge in last week's European elections didn't happen was largely attributed to increased support for pro-European Union green and liberal parties and an increased turnout across the bloc. In Germany, the green party finished second to Merkel's Christian Democratic Union. The Chancellor said that she was "pleased that more people went to the elections than in the last European elections," but conceded that the Greens' performance "has to do with issues that people are interested in the most these days, for example climate change, and that is also for my party, of course, a challenge now." Merkel has been criticized for her reliance on burning coal and bowing to pressure from German industry catering to their needs rather than the needs of the environment. This might seem strange, given that Merkel has previously been dubbed the "climate Chancellor" due to her public support for green and clean energy initiatives. Indeed, she was one of the most vocal critics of US President Donald Trump's decision to pull out of the Paris climate accord. Of her relationship with Trump, Merkel responded to a question about the public perception of her being a punching bag for the US President, by acknowledging that they have "had contentious debates" but that they've managed to find "common ground" where it was needed. She said that all German Chancellors had an "obligation" to forge a relationship with the U.S. President. "One of the most important decisions that (the) United States took after the second world war, to give Germany and Europe a chance to actually develop themselves, well ... That was achieved by the Marshall Plan. America has always defended us," Merkel said. It's widely assumed that Merkel had a better relationship with Trump's predecessor, Barack Obama. But Merkel revealed to CNN that her relationship with the former President "did not start very smoothly" and that "it was not that easy in the beginning." She recalled the speech he gave at the Brandenburg gate, saying, "I had been criticized a lot when he wanted to speak in Berlin in front of the Brandenburg Gate, but I said he's not the President yet. And only presidents can speak there." Speaking of another ex-U.S. leader, Merkel responded to the viral image of President George W. Bush giving her what appeared to be an uninvited neck rub at a 2006 meeting in Russia. The Chancellor brushed off the much-commented-on interaction as a "kind gesture at the time, a friendship" from the then-President. Merkel is nearly halfway through her fourth and final term as Chancellor. Reflecting on nearly 15 years as leader of one of the world's most powerful nations, the most powerful politician in Europe and, arguably, the most powerful woman in the world, she spoke of the responsibility she felt to women and girls that looked up to her. Asked if she sees herself as a feminist, the Chancellor said that, having been asked this question before, the Dutch Queen Maxima helped her find her own definition of feminism. She said the Queen explained to her that feminism meant "women having the same rights everywhere and this is parity... from politics to the media, to the business community, that must be our objective, we are not there yet." "For many girls, apparently, I have become indeed a role model, during my time of chancellorship," she added. "We need more women in these relevant positions and that means men have to change their way of life." With Merkel's final term as Chancellor ending in 2021, backers of her brand of politics fear it's on the way out as populism from both the left and right erodes the political center. Merkel strongly rejected ceding any ground to populist forces, instead saying there was a need to show "why we are for democracy, why we try to bring about solutions, why we always have to put ourselves into the other person's shoes, why we stand-up against intolerance, why we show no tolerance towards violations of human rights." In the immediate aftermath of the European elections, in which the center-right European People's Party had its dominance eroded, exactly how popular Merkel's signature pragmatism is remains far from clear. Especially as her Christian Democratic centrism is currently at the heart of the EPP's vision for Europe's future. As Merkel prepares to leave office, she might find that those who replace her sweep away her legacy not only in Germany, but across the continent she has for so long dominated. This story was first published on CNN.com, "Angela Merkel warns against dark forces on the rise in Europe." Music in PyeongChang's artistic director Son Yeol-eum speaks during a press conference in southern Seoul, Tuesday. Courtesy of Music in PyeongChang Artistic Director Son Yeol-eum talks about this year's installment of the annual music festival By Anna J. Park This year marks the 16th installment of Music in PyeongChang (MPyC), formerly known as the PyeongChang Music Festival, or Great Mountains Music Festival, and the annual summer classical music event's theme and detailed program have been unveiled. World-renowned pianist Son Yeol-eum, the annual music festival's artistic director, announced Tuesday that this year's theme will be "A Different Story," presenting 12 main music concerts along with scores of other special concerts and master classes. "I hoped to awaken somewhat different and fresh perspectives on the music concerts and festival; just as when we say it's a different story during our colloquial conversations, it conveys subtle nuances of curiosity or originality to listeners," Son said during a press conference held Tuesday in Seoul. It is Son's second year as artistic director of the annual music festival, which set in the beautiful mountainous region of PyeongChang, Gangwon Province, in the nation's east. The location became globally known with the hosting of the PyeongChang Winter Olympics early last year. Most of the main concerts will be held at Alpensia Concert Hall within Alpensia Resort in PyeongChang, while special concerts and outreach concerts will take place at diverse venues around Gangwon Province. Music in PyeongChang's artistic director Son Yeol-eum speaks during a press conference in southern Seoul, Tuesday. Courtesy of Music in PyeongChang This year's 10-day music festival starts on July 31 with a main concert titled "Once Upon a Time," featuring contemporary works such as Russian composer Shchedrin's "Three Shepherds," as well as Enescu's "Legend," and Schubert's "Die Forelle" (Trout) or "Piano Quintet in A major." "Shchedrin explained his piece was composed by thinking about the sounds of nature that he heard by a brook. I chose it as the opening piece of the festival, as I thought this music fits the ambiance of the music festival very well," Son said. Another main concert on Aug. 2 presents Beethoven's five Sonatas for Piano and Cello, marking the 250th birth anniversary of the iconic German composer next year. It aims to show Beethoven's musical transformations throughout his life. The following day's concert delves into the theme of death, despair and endings, with Prokofiev's "Piano Concerto no.2" and Tchaikovsky's "Symphony no.5." Aug. 6's main concert also draws attention. Under the title of "Bohemian Rhapsody," the concert presents diverse classical masterpieces inspired by gypsy melodies and literature, such as Dvorak's "Slavonic dance in E minor no.2," Kreisler's "Gypsy Caprice," and Ravel's "Tzigane," among others. The festival ends on Aug. 10 with a concert titled "Happily Ever After," presenting Berlioz' "Symphonie Fantastique," marking the 150th anniversary of the death of the French composer. Music in PyeongChang's artistic director Son Yeol-eum speaks during a press conference in southern Seoul, Tuesday. Courtesy of Music in PyeongChang Yu Sung-hun, chief financial officer of Shinhan Financial Group, holds an investor relations meeting in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Monday. The group invited 20 institutional investors and analysts to introduce Shinhan's goals in Vietnam this year. Courtesy of Shinhan Financial Group ALBANY - When Bernadine Ryan immigrated from Trinidad and Tobago to Albany 25 years ago after her 14-year-old son was killed intervening in a school fight, she started her life over. What she had was her high school equivalency, recommendations from her last job providing medical care for the handicapped, and a crucial skill English fluency. "Being a woman from a different country, it's not always easy," Ryan said. "This is a different culture. I had to learn the American culture ... I had to learn Albany. I had to be self-motivated. You have to be able to take initiative for yourself and do certain things." The Caribbean immigrant quickly found work at St. Peter's Hospital restocking operating rooms and then was trained on the job as a technician. Ryan, now in her 50s and recently a naturalized U.S. citizen, knows it's not as easy for all women to be self-sufficient. In a focus group as part of a study on female immigrant economic empowerment last fall, Ryan heard women from all over the world talk about some of the same challenges, and others even more daunting, when they arrived. One took the bus in the wrong direction and ended up walking from Colonie Center back to downtown Albany with no way to contact her husband who was looking for her. Another had an office job in her home country but could only find work cleaning. Yet another was a librarian but can't even volunteer here because she doesn't speak enough English. More than 12,000 people in Albany are foreign born, the last census reported. More than 4,200 refugees have been resettled in the area since 2005. This past fall, the Church of St. Vincent De Paul in Albany, supported by the Whalen Foundation, ran the study among women in these populations. The goal was to identify skills and interests, tackle gaps and obstacles to achieving economic stability, and propose solutions that women own themselves. "People are always wanting to do good things for them, but something they don't ask them is what they want," said Angela Warner, director of St. Vincent's food pantry and social justice ministries. "They get in white privilege mode of telling them what they need, instead of asking what they need." Warner found women to volunteer through the church's food pantry, where one in three clients are immigrants or refugees. Ryan and 25 other women from the Ukraine, Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Iraq, Congo Brazzaville and Syria participated. One group was conducted in English, another in Arabic and the third in Dari, an Afghan language. A business professor at the University at Albany helped design and implement the study along with a graduate assistant who could interpret for the non-English speaking groups. Volunteers got a $25 gift card to Price Chopper and another for the same amount to Target. The study found that in their new U.S. homes, participants valued education, freedom, security, safety, and the welcoming nature of Americans. Women had no shortage of dreams. They wanted to become doctors or police officers. Others desired to work as nurses, lawyers, or judges. One loved tailoring and wanted to make a living doing it. Their main hope for the future was finding a career followed by pursuing an education and improving English but the study found those problems are interconnected and their solutions complex. Barriers to economic empowerment were language, transportation, and juggling family life. Women might be able to find jobs, but couldn't understand the language or find childcare. Some were older or had health problems that prevented them from working. For others, location was an issue one said she needed to take three buses in the morning to get to work. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Warner explained that many of the Dari-speaking women from Afghanistan stay home and care for small children in large families. They can't access rides to get out of homes because many of them don't drive. "It's hard to learn English and integrate into the community. They kind of stick together," said Warner. "That can be a protective factor but also can impede ability to become a part of the community." Now that Warner and others know about the population's dreams and barriers, they want to partner with women to create measurable and time-sensitive solutions. The first step is two rounds of meetings with stakeholders in June one with schools, public safety, social services and refugee resettlement agencies, the other with employers and higher education institutions. Warner hopes it will strengthen systems to be more responsive, help agencies work together better, and create innovative ways to help refugees and immigrants become more integrated. The participants will also meet again in June, Ryan said. Her hope is that because she has been in the U.S. longer than most she can help others navigate American life and pursue their dreams. She hasn't yet realized hers of creating a center in her son's honor to teach students to grow and sell produce to the community but she hasn't given up hope. "There's always challenges, but I'm a person, I use the negative and turn it around to make it into something positive," Ryan said. "I'm not going to let my color or because I come from a different country hold me back." Des Moines, Iowa In Iowa, one of the whitest states in the nation, more than 100 black Democrats who expect to attend the 2020 caucuses crammed into a tiny community center in the capital city to position themselves as a force in the most wide-open presidential campaign in a generation. "There is hope! There is hope, I tell you, the same hope that Barack Obama brought us," Jamie Woods, former chairwoman of the Iowa Democratic Black Caucus, implored the cheering group last month. In the state where Obama's 2008 candidacy cleared its first important hurdle, black Democrats are energized as seldom seen, in part motivated by overwhelming dissatisfaction with President Donald Trump. That enthusiasm could make a difference in a state that holds a presidential caucus, which, unlike an open primary, attracts only the most motivated voters. That means a candidate who can rally more black voters in the caucuses can gain an outsized advantage, even though African-Americans make up only 2 percent of Iowa's population. Iowa's caucus, coming next February as the first event in the Democratic Party's presidential nominating contest, is an early test of how voters are going to respond to two dozen candidates and could be a harbinger of the primary a few weeks later in South Carolina, where African-Americans comprise most of the Democratic primary electorate. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. "They're realizing that their voice needs to be heard," said Deidre DeJear, the first African-American to win a primary for statewide office in Iowa and now state chairwoman for Sen. Kamala Harris' 2020 presidential campaign. "And they are using the platform they have whether they're elected or whether just a regular voter." Stacey Walker, the first black county board chairman in Iowa's second-most-populous metro area, said he hasn't seen this kind of energy among black operatives, activists and officeholders in Iowa in years. "Not since the Obama coalition have we seen so many persons of color actively engaged and inspired by our politics," Walker said. "It hasn't always been this way, and certainly not in Iowa." Saratoga Springs The stretch Ford Excursion involved in last October's limousine crash in Schoharie that killed 20 people first caught the attention of a Department of Transportation investigator nearly two years ago while it was sitting in the parking lot of the Mavis Discount Tire in Saratoga Springs. Newly released court documents in the criminal case against Gansevoort limo operator Nauman Hussain reveal that DOT investigator Chad Smith was at the Mavis location on Broadway on June 8, 2017 when he saw the white 34-foot-long Excursion in the parking lot. Something about the limo wasn't right. It had livery plates used by for-hire town car or black car services. But a limo that size with seating for 18 passengers is classified as a passenger bus in New York, making it subject to the DOT's bus safety program. Livery plates are only supposed to be issued to limos or town cars with seating for 14 or fewer. Under normal circumstances, the stretch Excursion limo would have had been issued bus plates by the Department of Motor Vehicles. "It caught my attention because due to the vehicle's size it would require NYS DOT authority," Smith says in a deposition he gave State Police four days after the crash. "I ran the registration in the NYS DMV database and the DMV registration had it listed as an 11-passenger vehicle." It's unclear from the deposition if Smith's visit to Mavis on that Thursday during the summer of 2017 was part of his duties with the DOT or if he was there on his own time getting his car serviced. Smith, who would later order the Excursion off the road twice in the months leading up to the Oct. 6, 2018 crash, originally didn't get very far in his initial investigation into the Excursion, which was registered with the DMV under the name of Shahed Hussain, Nauman Hussain's father. Smith says he came across an email address for a company called Hasy Limousine that appeared to be connected to the Excursion and emailed them the day after he first spotted the limo parked at the Mavis. Hasy Limousine is a DBA, or "doing-business-as," entity that Nauman Hussain registered with the Saratoga County Clerk's office in 2014. His father, Shahed, had registered a DBA called Prestige Limousine in 2012. Both entities, along with a third company called Saratoga Luxury Limousine, were all registered to the address of the Crest Inn Suites and Cottages, the Gansevoort motel operated by the Hussain family. Smith says he emailed Hasy Limousine on June 9, 2017 telling the company that it needed to call DOT and apply for "passenger authority" in order to rent out the Excursion to customers, although Smith never heard anything back. "I did not receive a reply to that email," Smith says in his deposition. Two weeks later, Smith says he checked to see if the company had applied for DOT passenger authority and when a search of the agency's databases came up empty, he forwarded the information to Martin Duffy, a supervising inspector at DOT. "I am aware that a notice of violation was issued to the company, but I wasn't part of that enforcement," Smith says in his deposition. The DOT issues notices of violations to commercial vehicle operators who appear to be violating state transportation laws. Companies that receive the letters have the right to argue their case in front of an administrative law judge but can face fines up to $5,000. It's unclear what the DOT's initial notice of violation sent back in 2017 said or what type of fine the company was facing. Last month, the Times Union requested copies of any notices of violation that the DOT sent to Nauman Hussain or his father, Shahed, in 2017 and 2018 under the state's Freedom of Information Law, or FOIL. Although DOT retains such records for three years, the agency told the Times Union on May 17 that it cannot produce the notices at this time due to the "high number of FOIL requests recently received." DOT said it would try to locate the violation notices for the Times Union by July 5. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Nauman Hussain is facing 20 counts of manslaughter and 20 counts of criminally negligent homicide in connection with the crash, which happened when the Excursion, carrying a party of 17 people from Amsterdam to Cooperstown careened into the parking lot of the Apple Barrel Country Store just outside the village of Schoharie after coming down a long hill on Route 30. The limo killed two pedestrians before crashing into a ditch, leaving all 17 passengers and the driver dead of blunt-force trauma. A report done by a State Police expert found the cause of the crash was "catastrophic brake failure," although Hussain's Albany attorney, Lee Kindlon, has asserted that the limo was safe at the time of the accident. Kindlon was not available for comment on Tuesday. It's unclear why the Excursion was being parked at the Mavis, although Nauman Hussain had sent the limo there for service, including exhaust work and other repairs, according to court documents. Most of the time, Nauman Hussain had the Excursion and other limos his company owned outside of a warehouse off Weibel Avenue in Saratoga Springs. In May of 2018, two months after the DOT's Smith ordered the Excursion off the road because it failed a safety inspection, the Mavis issued the limo a DMV inspection sticker, even though the vehicle wasn't eligible for such an inspection and needed to go through a more rigorous bus inspection done by the DOT. Officials with Mavis declined to comment. DOT spokesman Joe Morrissey stated the agency has "no comment due to the ongoing criminal prosecution." The next time the DOT's Chad Smith came across the Excursion was on Jan. 5, 2018, nine months before the crash, when he was searching the internet for unauthorized motor carriers and came across a website called SaratogaLuxuryLimo.com, which was offering limo service. Saratoga Luxury Limousine was a DBA that Nauman Hussain registered in 2016, right after the Excursion was purchased from an Albany limo company. "I then checked Facebook for Saratoga Luxury Limousine and found information offering for hire transportation and a photo of the Excursion," Smith said. "I recalled this vehicle from my previous encounter." The Saratoga Luxury Limousine web site also had a photo of the Excursion, a Times Union search found, although it was described as being a stretch Lincoln Navigator, not a Ford Excursion. Smith says when he came across the company in January 2018 he contacted the company via email and requested a quote for a five hour trip in the Excursion for 13 people. After being quoted $695 plus tax and tip, Smith says he issued a notice of violation against Shahed Hussain three days later. That was around the time that Shahed Hussain had open-heart surgery at Albany Medical Center, according to Nauman Hussain's defense team. Smith wasn't able to get his hands on the Excursion for a first-hand inspection until March 21, 2018, a day after Shahed Hussain left the United States for his native Pakistan to recuperate from triple bypass surgery. Nauman Hussain said he was managing his father's limo company in his absence when the crash occurred. Brussels The European Union prides itself on being a brilliant mosaic of nations, but its parliamentary elections produced a hodgepodge of sometimes contradictory results that complicates the future of both the 28-country EU and the domestic politics of several members. While issues like climate change, immigration and global trade dominated the campaign, voters' motivations were plainly parochial. And the domestic effect of the continent-wide elections was there for all to see, including at least one government coming apart at the seams. No name is bigger than that of Germany's Angela Merkel, and her recipe for conservative, stable government suffered a blow when both her Christian Democrats CDU/CSU and her Socialist coalition partner lost big in the elections. Climate has been a big theme in Germany, and despite windmills dotting the landscape, industry continues to rely heavily on coal and other polluting energy sources. A government plan to close coal mines by 2038 only put it among the climate laggards. Disregard the issue at your peril in these days of climate marches and student protests, the surging Greens showed. The Christian Democrats and Socialists sank to historic lows amid talk their coalition could be in peril. In Greece, the shock was even bigger, and climate change was not to blame. In Athens, voters lashed out against the hangover from the austerity imposed by Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras to avoid bankruptcy and a perilous exit from the euro currency four years ago. That was compounded by another national flashpoint: Tsipras lost appeal in northern Greece over his willingness to recognize the name of neighboring North Macedonia. His losses forced him to call for early elections. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Yet nowhere is a domestic issue bigger than in the United Kingdom, where an inability to deliver on Brexit, the 2016 referendum to leave the EU, caused the Conservatives of Prime Minister Theresa May and Labour to sink to historic lows. Even if you voted for an anti-EU party, the EU still loves you because you took part in the election. Every five years, the EU feared that fewer voters would show up. And every time, since the first direct elections in 1979, turnout was worse, dropping from 61.8 percent in 1979 to 42.6 percent five years ago. It went to their core business: How could the EU prove it was relevant if fewer people showed up to vote every time? So even if the euroskeptic vote rose to unprecedented heights this year, there was still a certain giddiness around EU institutions as turnout figures kept on rising through the night. They finally reached 50.9 percent, the highest in two decades. TACOMA, Wash. I went back to Tacoma last week to visit my family and ran headlong into Ted Bundy, one of the most notorious and savage serial killers in modern history, who grew up in Tacoma as I did. I never met Bundy, who was 13 years older than me, but our houses were only a few blocks apart in the city's North End. Our mothers knew each other because they both worked at the University of Puget Sound, which Bundy and I both attended. Bundy confessed to 30 homicides of young women in seven states stretching from Washington to Florida between 1974 and '78. The sexual slayings included decapitation of several victims. He escaped twice from police custody and committed additional killings while on the lam. The former law school student maintained his innocence and represented himself in two separate trials before exhausting his appeals and making an eleventh-hour partial confession on death row. Investigators believe Bundy killed many more women, perhaps as many as 100. He was executed in the electric chair at Florida State Prison on Jan. 24, 1989, as large crowds gathered outside the penitentiary walls, banging pans in celebration and chanting, "Burn, Bundy, burn!" From what I remember, we never spoke much about Bundy in our household or around Tacoma. He was a shameful stain we tried our best to ignore. But he still haunts Tacoma, and the national psyche. Bundy was a charming, handsome, articulate psychopath whose unspeakable acts of barbarity at once repulsed and fascinated. Witness the fact that Netflix over the past few months released not one but two Ted Bundy programs to coincide with the 30th anniversary of his execution. The first was a four-hour documentary series, "Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes," released in January. Earlier this month, Netflix released a biopic, "Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile," starring Zac Efron as Bundy and Lily Collins as the killer's longtime girlfriend, Elizabeth Kendall. Both Netflix programs were directed by Joe Berlinger, who broke through as the co-director of the 1992 documentary "Brother's Keeper," about a very different murder in upstate's Madison County. I watched them both. The film is schlock. The documentary, well done but overly long, is framed around extensive prison interviews with Bundy conducted by author and journalist Stephen Michaud. Like Bundy, Michaud was born in Burlington, Vt., and both moved to Tacoma as young boys of single mothers. Michaud was two years younger and they never met, but they had mutual friends in Tacoma. Both attended law school. Michaud left those studies for an entry-level job at Newsweek, where his mentor was investigative journalist Hugh Aynesworth. Michaud was assigned to assist Aynesworth on an in-depth article about Dean Corll, who abducted and murdered at least 28 teenage boys and young men in Houston, Texas, between 1970 and 1973. Corll was dubbed "The Candy Man" because he worked at his family's candy store in Houston. A teenage accomplice, Elmer Wayne Henley Jr., fatally shot the 33-year-old Corll in 1973. Aynesworth sent Michaud to observe recovery of the bodies of Corll's victims. "He put his victims in plastic bags, poured in lime and buried them in spaces at old boathouses he rented," Michaud said. "I gagged for three weeks." That was Michaud's introduction to the phenomenon of serial killers, a term that hadn't been coined at that point. Years later, Michaud's literary agent, Kathy Robbins, called to inform him that Bundy was looking for an author to write his story. Aynesworth agreed to collaborate. Michaud was 31 years old when he conducted his first of nearly 100 hours of taped interviews with Bundy at Florida State Prison in 1979. Michaud gained access by getting a private investigator's license and telling prison officials he was an investigator working on Bundy's appeals case. He was actually working on a book. In 1983, Michaud and Aynesworth published "The Only Living Witness: The True Story of Serial Sexual Killer Ted Bundy." In 1989, they published another Bundy book, "Conversations with a Killer," which became a New York Times bestseller. Both books are still in print. Now 71, Michaud was co-executive producer and a primary source for Berlinger's Netflix documentary. He has spent four decades trying to get inside Bundy's psyche while also "trying to put Ted in my rear-view mirror" as he put it. Michaud and Aynesworth quickly determined that Bundy was a manipulative, conniving sociopath, and clearly guilty of the murders. "Ted is my Moby-Dick," Michaud told me by phone last week from his home outside Baltimore, Md., where he is working on his 21st book, a collaboration with a Tacoma man who became obsessed with pinning numerous unsolved homicides of young women on Bundy. "Some days I think, 'Not another day of Ted.' It wears on you," said Michaud, a divorced father of two grown children. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. The new Netflix documentary series surprised Michaud, who first spoke with Berlinger more than 25 years ago. "I never thought it would get made," he said. The 30th anniversary of Bundy's execution and renewed interest in serial killers such as Charles Manson helped secure funding. Michaud has gotten used to both critics and weirdos who contact him. "Strange people want to talk in-depth about killing and the majority are women," he said. "When people criticize me for glorifying a killer, I say 'Read the book.' It is not a breathless fanboy's take." Michaud feels he got closer than anyone else to the essential Ted Bundy. "I portray Ted as a sociopath and a narcissist with violent sexual fantasies," he said. "He loved hunting and killing women. He called the force inside him urging him to do these horrible killings 'the entity,' and he didn't feel guilt or remorse. He spoke of his crimes like he was discussing what he had for dinner." Michaud was not frightened while spending hour after hour an arm's length from a serial killer. "I never felt any personal peril from him," he said. "It felt sort of like watching a shark under glass." Interviewing survivors and examining autopsy photos disturbed him, as did an encounter with Bundy's mother, Louise Bundy, who remained a staunch advocate for her son's innocence. He and Aynesworth went to her North End Tacoma home to share findings before they published their book. They sat at her dining room table and played tape recordings of her son describing gruesome killings. "She leaned in to the tape recorder and started making little squeaking sounds like a mouse, which was very bizarre," Michaud recalled. The tape ended. There was an awkward silence. "I mumbled an apology for putting her through something so difficult," he said. "And then Mrs. Bundy looked up with bright eyes and asked, 'Who's for ice cream and apple pie?'" Louise Bundy retired after many years as a secretary in the communications and theater department at the University of Puget Sound, where I saw her occasionally. I never asked her about Ted. She died in 2012 at 88. Paul Grondahl is director of the New York State Writers Institute at the University at Albany and a former Times Union reporter. He can be reached at grondahlpaul@gmail.com Longtime New York gubernatorial candidate Howie Hawkins will seek the Green Party nomination for president in 2020. Hawkins, who make the announcement on Tuesday in Brooklyn, has run for governor three times (in 2010, '14 and '18) on the Green Party's line, every time clearing the 50,000-vote limit required to maintain the party's ballot status. He launched his exploratory committee for the presidency in April. Hawkins, a retired Teamster, has also run for Congress and the U.S. Senate, as well as seeking local offices in Syracuse. The centerpiece of Hawkins' campaign for president is an "ecosocialist Green New Deal" to convert to clean renewable energy with zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 a "World War II-scale mobilization," he said in a statement. "The climate crisis is an existential threat to humanity. Real solutions can't wait," Hawkins said in a statement. " ... The Green New Deal is the program of hope that we can rally around to beat the ultra-right's program of fear based on racism, xenophobia, religious bigotry, fact-free irrationalism, and authoritarianism. It's how we beat the politics of Trumpism." Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. While a number of Democratic candidates have addressed the concept of a "Green New Deal," the particulars of their plans tend to vary. Referring to U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's efforts to push for such a plan, Hawkins said "they took the brand but watered down the content. Then the Democratic leadership shot it down anyway." Woori Bank's Chief Customer Officer Cho Su-hyeong, center, poses with Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon, left, and a Woori Bank official at an award ceremony for inventors hosted by the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO), at COEX in southern Seoul, Tuesday. Woori Bank was the first financial firm to receive the presidential award for its intellectual property. Cho, who is in charge of Woori's brand and intellectual property rights, received an individual award from the Presidential Council on Intellectual Property for his contributions. / Courtesy of Woori Bank Albany Two former electoral rivals of Gov. Andrew Cuomo have jumped into the fray over whether yeshivas and other religious and private schools should undergo periodic reviews to make sure they are teaching basics to their students. Zephyr Teachout and Cynthia Nixon this month urged state Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia and Regents Chancellor Betty Rosa to enact emergency regulations that would trigger inspections of yeshivas and other non-public schools. Those inspections were slowly being phased in until April when the plan was thrown out by state Supreme Court Justice Christina Ryba, who concluded it amounted to a set of rules rather than guidelines. Rules require a more thorough review and public comment period. Lawyers for yeshivas, Catholic and other religious schools as well as independent schools had all challenged the plan in court. Following the decision, Naftali Moster, executive director of Young Advocates for Fair Education, or YAFFED, had also called for emergency regulations. Moster has been one of the main critics of yeshiva education in which ultra Orthodox Jewish rabbis focus largely on Torah, or the first five books of the Old Testament. Moster and others have complained that young men graduate from yeshivas with no real secular education, leaving them unprepared for college or the workplace. Most of the yeshiva instruction is in Yiddish. Teachout and Nixon repeated those complaints in their letter, saying Every year students graduate from these yeshivas without the ability to read or write in English, and little to no understanding of science, math, history or civics. The added that According to a report produced by YAFFED, students currently receive only 90 minutes of secular education in Hasidic boys' elementary schools, and none in high school. Most yeshiva students graduate without a diploma, making it nearly impossible for them to obtain a secondary degree or obtain employment. While the regulations and lawsuit focused on all non-public schools, the complaints from YAFFED have centered on yeshivas. Education Department officials said they havent decided whether to appeal the court ruling. The training the department had been offering to local school officials, however, has since stopped. Under the plan, local school boards would be responsible for surveying non-public schools to determine if they offered educations that are substantially equivalent to that offered in public schools. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Teachout and Nixon have been involved in New York politics and have been outspoken on a number of issues including education. Teachout, a Fordham law professor, challenged Cuomo in a 2014 primary and lost. She then ran unsuccessfully in 2016 against Republican John Faso for Congress in the 20th District in the Hudson Valley. In 2018 she was among several candidates who competed in the Democratic primary for Attorney General which was ultimately won by Democrat Letitia James. Nixon lost a 2018 primary race with Cuomo. She has been an advocate for more school funding, joining forces more than a decade ago with the Campaign for Fiscal Equity, a group that has long pushed for education funding. rkarlin@timesunion.com 518 454 5758 @RickKarlinTU NEW YORK A former NXIVM disciple told jurors Tuesday that Keith Raniere impregnated her and her two sisters her older sister twice and told her it was a "great opportunity to lose weight." The witness, a 33-year-old Mexican national who began testifying last Thursday, testified at Raniere's criminal trial that just a few days after she underwent an abortion in Albany, she was walking with Raniere when he told her the procedure included benefits. In addition to the woman and her sisters, she learned Raniere's longtime girlfriend Pamela Cafritz, who died in 2016, also had an abortion. "He said when a woman gets pregnant, their metabolism and their hormones change. He said there were Olympic athletes who had abortions for training," the woman testified. Raniere, who was obsessed with women around him being rail thin, told her during the walk, "This was a great opportunity to lose weight and get fit." Assistant U.S. Attorney Moira Penza asked the woman what she felt when Raniere made the comment. "Shock," she responded. Raniere, whose trial is entering its fourth week, has pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with racketeering, conspiracy, sex trafficking and forced labor. The witness also began to detail her confinement in a room on Wilton Court in Halfmoon between March 2010 and February 2012. In the fall of 2006, she drew Raniere's wrath because she developed feelings for Ben Meyers, a NXIVM computer specialist. She and Raniere had a huge argument, she said, setting the stage for her to be shunned and, a few years later, confined to the room. "My life changed completely overnight," she testified. Even in the years before she was confined to the room, she said her world began to close in on her all because she kissed Meyers and it rankled Raniere. She could no longer attend volleyball games, a common activity for NXIVM members. Raniere's devotees and her own family decided her punishment for supposedly being "prideful" and "indulgent" was to confiscate her ability to use her cell phone, computer or iPod. A lock was placed on her refrigerator, she said. She said before she lost her computer, Raniere had relentlessly demanded to know every detail of her communications with Meyers, and that she report her weight to him. Meyers became the focus of thousands of Raniere's probing emails. She said nothing happened between her and Meyers beyond kissing and some touching. Raniere's reaction was "of absurd disproportionate" to what she did with Meyers. It became a "loss of every single one of my freedoms," she testified, saying Raniere emotionally "beat me up into submission." She described the pain emotional and physical that came from learning she was pregnant at age 20. She said Raniere falsely claimed that they had previously discussed the possibility of her becoming pregnant and had already agreed she would have an abortion. She said she did not want to have anyone's baby, let alone Raniere's, who was sleeping with her sisters. She said she felt a lot of shame. She was nervous, she said, but Raniere was calm and collected. He explained to her that he had impregnated her older sister and Cafritz. "He told me that this was no big deal, that Pam was going to take care of it," she testified. She said Raniere said he would pay for the abortion. She said the only people aware of her pregnancy were her, Raniere and Cafritz, who crafted a "cover-up" story and prepared answers for her. After the procedure, she added, Raniere was not by her side. "Keith didn't visit me not once," she testified. "I was all alone. I was all alone throughout the entire process." She said her younger sister, whom she previously said had been in a sexual relationship with Raniere since the age of 15, also later became pregnant by Raniere. Her sister was 18 at the time of the abortion. She said her older sister became pregnant twice by Raniere and had two abortions. Earlier, the witness testified she had been instructed to hack into the email accounts of her older sister, Seagram's liquor tycoon Edgar Bronfman Sr. and an associate of NXIVM critic Joseph O'Hara all at the direction of the man known as "Vanguard." The work included"key logging" to record the strokes taken by the people targeted so she could access their passwords and other information. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. She told jurors in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn that she had "extreme reservations" with Raniere's orders to hack into the computers of people identified as "targets." She said she told Raniere, "This (is) wrong," immoral and illegal. NXIVM's Executive Success Programs was supposed to be about teaching ethics but, "It didn't seem OK to me," she said. She said Raniere rationalized the criminal conduct by explaining that she and he were good people fighting "suppressives," who were breaking the rules. So to thwart them, she said he told her, they needed to break rules. "We're going to do unethical things ethically," Raniere had told her, she testified. She detailed an elaborate sequence of events they undertook to try to hack into the email account of O'Hara, a former NXIVM business associate and Albany attorney who had a falling out with Raniere. She said she took steps to mask her digital identity as the hacker, including purchasing a used computer in Troy, using non-traceable Wi-Fi and installing special software. She said she planned to send an infected email to O'Hara but it didn't work. O'Hara's emails were impenetrable. She said Raniere had a back-up plan: Hack the computer of James Loperfido, an account who was an associate of O'Hara's and had done work for NXIVM. She testified that NXIVM bookkeeper Kathy L. Russell, who is one of Raniere's co-defendants and has pleaded guilty, had arranged for Loperfido to come to their offices for a meeting. Russell distracted him, the woman said, while she successfully hacked into Loperfido's laptop. "I gave the good news to Keith. I thought he was pleased," she testified. With the hacking software installed, she was able to monitor Loperfido's emails for "years," she testified. The witness testified she was also asked to hack into the email account of Bronfman, who died in 2013 and was the father of NXIVM devotees Clare and Sara Bronfman. Clare Bronfman is NXIVM's operations director and also has pleaded guilty to felony crimes in the case. Edgar Bronfman, a billionaire philanthropist and the former longtime president of the World Jewish Congress, had once taken a NXIVM class but later turned on the organization and described it to Forbes magazine as "a cult." The Mexican woman testified that she was also told to hack into the account of her older sister because Raniere had explained that her sister was being destructive and they wanted to help her. She said she hacked into her sister's account and provided the information to Raniere, but did not look at it herself. She did not like it at the time, she said. "Now I feel worse," she said. "I know what I did was wrong. It's plain and simple illegal. ... I feel bad that I contributed to the abuse and the manipulation of my own sister." The witness also testified that Raniere held her unlawful immigration status she was in the country illegally since 2004 after initially arriving on a visa over her head as a form of discipline, including while she was allegedly being held against her will in the Halfmoon residence. Senate Passes TRACED Act to Curb Robocalls Nearly Unanimously Unwanted robocalls have become the bane of most Americans existence. Most of us receive several (sometimes dozens) of them each day. 26.3 billion robocalls were placed in 2018, a figure that rose by 46 percent from 2017. By the end of this year, half of all cellphone will come from scammers, according to First Orion (News - Alert), a company that provides phone carriers and their customers caller ID and call blocking technology. Year after year, the scam-call epidemic bombards consumers at record-breaking levels, surpassing the previous year, and scammers increasingly invade our privacy at new extremes, Charles Morgan, the chief executive and head data scientist of First Orion, said in a blog post. Americans, robocalled to the point of distraction, have been demanding that someone telecom companies or Congress do something about the scourge. This week, the Senate nearly unanimously (97-1) voted for the passage of a law called the TRACED Act (Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence) that would curb the robocall problem. (Senator Rand Paul was the only Senator to vote against the legislation.) Introduced as a bill in January by Massachusetts Senator John Thune, a South Dakota Republican, and Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey, a Democrat, the legislation is reportedly getting a companion version from the House. The TRACED Act requires voice service providers to develop call authentication technologies, implements a forfeiture penalty for violations (with or without intent) of the prohibition on certain robocalls; and directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC (News - Alert)) to initiate a rulemaking process to help protect subscribers from receiving unwanted calls or texts from a caller using an unauthenticated number. Violators could receive $10,000 in penalties per violation. The nearly unanimous vote proves that hatred for robocalls has no political boundaries, according to Senator Markey. There are no blue robocalls. There are no red robocalls. There are only robocalls that drive every family in America crazy every single day, he told reporters, according Roll Call. Scammers use these calls to successfully prey on vulnerable populations like elderly Americans who are sometimes less technologically savvy. According to Roll Call, the TRACED Act will unite the FCC, Federal Trade Commission, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and departments of Justice, Commerce, State, Homeland Security and other relevant federal agencies as well as state attorneys general, and other non-federal entities, to find solutions to deter robocalls, as well as build a framework for criminal prosecution of violators and scammers. Edited by Maurice Nagle [May 28, 2019] Acquired Sales Corp. to Acquire 100% of CBD Products Industry Leader Lifted Liquids LAKE FOREST, Ill., May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Acquired Sales Corp. (OTC Pink: AQSP) today announced that it has signed a letter of intent to acquire 100% of the ownership interests of rapidly growing CBD industry leader Warrender Enterprise Inc. d/b/a Lifted Liquids ( www.LiftedLiquids.com ), Zion, Illinois, for consideration of $7.5 million in cash, plus 4,545,455 shares of Acquired Sales Corp.'s common stock. Nicholas S. Warrender, Founder and CEO of Lifted Liquids, will continue as the CEO of Lifted Liquids under a long-term employment agreement, and Lifted Liquids will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Acquired Sales Corp. Closing of the acquisition is subject to a number of conditions, including completion of an acceptable due diligence investigation and audit of Lifted Liquids, completion of a capital raise of at least $9 million by Acquired Sales Corp., execution of definitive acquisition documents, receipt of a tax opinion on the transaction, obtaining all necessary approvals, and the completion of all necessary securities filings. The announcement of this acquisition comes less than three weeks after Acquired Sales Corp. announced a letter of intent to acquire 100% of rapidly growing CBD LION LLC ( www.CBDLION.com ), Mundelein, Illinois, and plans to change the combined company's name to CBD LION CORP. to emphasize its vision to become the national leader in the CBD products industry. Acquired Sales Corp. has already acquired 4.99% of rapidly growing CBD-infused beverage and products maker Ablis Holding Company ( www.AblisBev.com ), and of craft distillers Bendistillery Inc. and Bend Spirits, Inc. ( www.Bendistillery.com ), Bend, Oregon. Founded in 2015, Lifted Liquids was created with a passion to build a culture-based organizaion focused upon quality products and a healthier lifestyle. Lifted Liquids produces its own lines of CBD-infused products, CBD devices, research and development of CBD and vape brands and products for private label clients. Lifted Liquids has a unique raw goods/CBD supply chain that many customers benefit from: CBD and CBG isolate, full spectrum and broad spectrum water soluble and distillate. Nicholas S. Warrender said: Being in this business I noticed there was a disruptive supply chain that plagued the industry. We went to hell and back to create traceable supply chains with credible documentation. We are your solution for all bulk supply needs. Lifted Liquids has been committed to improving the community it serves by providing superior, consumer-centered and cost-effective CBD products and hemp raw goods that are third-party lab tested with quality assurance, consistency, and traceability. Lifteds goal is to create the benchmark for quality and assurance in the industry. Nicholas S. Warrender said: We are absolutely thrilled to join forces with like-minded individuals operating companies who are focused on the consumer first. Our goal is, and always has been, to help people improve their lives through quality products and to create a company that serves as a magnet to attract high caliber individuals with harmonious values and character. We take great pride in uniting with other industry leaders like CBD LION, and we believe that by working together we can make a monumental positive impact on our industry and the lives of many. From the start, Nicholas S. Warrender and Lifted Liquids have been hustling on a shoe string budget. Nick commented: Weve come a long way, without any debt. Year to date, Lifted Liquids gross revenue is almost $2,000,000. At the current run rate Lifteds gross revenue is conservatively expected to be 150% over last year, and we are profitable. Erik S. Lundgren, Founder and CEO of CBD LION, said: Collaborating with industry innovators and expanding our teams will be a powerful catalyst for future growth. We are excited for Lifted Liquids to join the LION PRIDE and we are thrilled to help Nick and his business continue growing the Lifted Liquids brand. We are seeking to partner with successful, innovative and creative entrepreneurs, like Nick, who are laser focused on making the best products for the people. William C. Jake Jacobs, CPA, President and CFO of Acquired Sales Corp., said: We are excited about partnering with Nick and the Lifted Liquids team. Lifted Liquids growth reflects Nicks outstanding leadership and his teams determination to deliver the highest quality products to Lifted Liquids customers. On top of that, Lifted Liquids and Nick bring a lot of proven industry and regulatory experience, and an expansive network, which give Lifted Liquids a competitive edge. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this document are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such information includes, without limitation, the contingencies to the closing of the contemplated transaction between the companies, and the growth strategies and future plans of the companies. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause or contribute to the contemplated transaction between the companies not closing, or to the actual results of these companies' operations or the performance or achievements of these companies differing materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Acquired Sales Corp. undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of contingencies to the closing of the contemplated transaction between the companies, and as a result of certain other factors, including those set forth in Acquired Sales Corp.'s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. CONTACTS: Acquired Sales Corp. William C. Jake Jacobs, CPA, President and CFO 847-400-7660 [email protected] www.AcquiredSalesCorp.com Lifted Liquids Nicholas S. Warrender, Founder and CEO 224-577-8148 [email protected] www.LiftedLiquids.com CBD LION LLC Erik S. Lundgren, Founder and CEO 224-688-9087 [email protected] www.CBDLION.com [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] BigLever Exec to Present a Keynote Address at ACM/IEEE International Conference on Software Engineering AUSTIN, Texas, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BigLever Software , the long-standing leader in the Product Line Engineering (PLE) field, today announced that the companys VP of Customer Success, Dr. Paul Clements, will be the keynote presenter for Industry Day at the 41 st ACM/IEEE International Conference on Software Engineering (ICSE) on May 29, 2019 in Montreal, Canada. His address, Managing Variation: An Industrial Perspective on Product Line Engineering , will spotlight Feature-based PLE best practices for effectively managing product line diversity across an enterprise. Clements will present case studies highlighting how industry leading companies are using Feature-based PLE to achieve order-of-magnitude improvements in time to market, efficiency, product line scalability and product quality. This years ICSE, sponsored by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computing Society ( IEEE CS ) and the Association of Computing Machinery ( ACM ), will be held May 27 to 31 at Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel in Montreal, Canada. Clements plenary session presentation is schedled for 9:00 to 10:30 a.m., Wed., May 29, on Industry Day, which features sessions of interest to industry practitioners. As the demand for increasingly sophisticated and diverse product lines continues to mount, manufacturers are faced with managing new levels of engineering and operational complexity, said Clements. A growing number of forward-thinking programs, business divisions and entire enterprises are turning to Feature-based PLE as a key strategy for taming variant management complexity and gaining competitive advantage. My Industry Day keynote will address the fundamentals of Feature-based PLE, exploring our key lessons learned and insights gained from working with the organizations that have used PLE with notable success. Feature-based PLE is a breakthrough practice and proven approach that enables organizations to develop, deliver and evolve an entire product line portfolio through each stage of the lifecycle, and across the enterprise, with far more efficiency than previously possible. It allows companies to establish a single source of feature truth for an entire product family eliminating the need for multiple feature management mechanisms across tools, processes and functions. This breaks down organizational silos, improves communication and dramatically reduces time, effort and errors. The ICSE is the long-standing premier software engineering conference where researchers, practitioners and educators come together to present, discuss and debate the most recent research results, innovations, trends and concerns in the field of software engineering. About Dr. Clements One of the founding fathers of the PLE field, Clements has in-depth systems and software architecture and analysis expertise, applied research experience, and insight for helping commercial organizations define pragmatic solutions to complex engineering problems. As Vice President of Customer Success at BigLever Software, Clements works to spread the industrial adoption of systems and product line engineering. Prior to BigLever, he was a senior member of the technical staff at Carnegie Mellon University's Software Engineering Institute (SEI), where for 17 years he worked leading and co-leading projects in product line engineering and software architecture documentation and analysis. Prior to the SEI, Clements was a computer scientist with the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C. Co-author of several software engineering books, Clements received his Ph.D. in computer science from The University of Texas at Austin. About BigLever Software BigLever Software is the long-standing leader in the Product Line Engineering field. BigLevers PLE solution delivers the leading-edge technology, proven methodology, business strategy and organizational change expertise needed to efficiently transition to and operate a game-changing PLE practice. The companys state-of-the-art PLE methods and tools provide one unified, automated approach for feature-based variant management. This approach extends across the full lifecycle, including engineering and operations disciplines; software, electrical, and mechanical domains; and tool ecosystem. BigLever is based in Austin, Texas. For more information, visit www.biglever.com . Media contacts : Cathy Martin, BigLever Software cmartin[at]biglever.com +1 (512) 565-4612 Diane Pardes, Pardes Communications, LLC dpardes[at]pardescommunications.com +1 (978) 254-7948 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 27, 2019] Canada Partners With Breakthrough Energy to Launch Game-Changing Program to Accelerate Clean Energy Innovations VANCOUVER, May 27, 2019 /CNW/ - Canada is helping to build the low-carbon economy. That is why we are investing in the development of new and innovative technologies that will help us fight climate change, boost the economy and create good jobs for Canadians. Canada's Minister of Natural Resources, the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, announced an investment of up to $30 million for a new initiative called Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada (BESC) that will foster cutting-edge companies to deliver game-changing clean energy innovations to the market. BESC is a first-of-its-kind publicprivate initiative aimed at accelerating the development of clean energy technologies in the electricity, transportation, buildings and manufacturing sectors with the potential for substantial pollution reductions globally. This funding call will harness the expertise of both Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and Breakthrough Energy in clean energy technologies with NRCan conducting and overseeing the funding call and Breakthrough Energy providing valuable insights and exposure to global investors. Launched under a new stream of NRCan's Energy Innovation Program, in partnership with Breakthrough Energy, BESC builds on the shared objectives of advancing a sustainable and resilient clean energy future. Minister Sohi made this announcement during the Clean Energy and Mission Innovation Ministerial meetings in Vancouver, where ministers, high-level officials and business leaders from over 25 countries gathered to accelerate progress toward a clean energy future. Born out of Mission Innovation's partnership with Breakthrough Energy, BESC demonstrates Canada's commitment to accelerating clean energy innovation through model partnerships, supporting Canadian innovators and making clean energy more widely accessible and affordable. The program's call for proposals is now open. Learn more about BESC: www.nrcan.gc.ca/breakthrough Quotes "To fight climate change and achieve a clean energy future, we must act quickly and work together. Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada will create a space for collaboration and help companies deliver clean energy technologies sooner and more often bringing us all one step closer to a clean energy future." The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau Prime Minister of Canada "The Government of Canada is proud to be a part of such an exciting, cutting-edge initiative that will position Canada as a leader in clean energy innovation. This investment brings us one step closer to a prosperous clean energy future one where we protect the environment, boost the economy and create good jobs for Canadians." The Honourable Amarjeet Sohi Canada's Minister of Natural Resources "Collaboration across the public and private sectors is a powerful way to advance the energy innovations and companies needed for a carbon-free future. We are hopeful that this Breakthrough Energy partnership with Canada will be a model for developing more collaborations that will help reach this goal." Bill Gates Chairman, Breakthrough Energy Ventures "Every day Canada's inventors and investors, engineers and entrepreneurs are coming up with smarter, cleaner ways of doing things. Their ideas are our best tools in the fight against climate change. The dawning global low-carbon economy is estimated to be worth $26 trillion and today's announcement positions Canada to compete as a global low-carbon leader. Supporting great ideas will help us find the innovative low-carbon solutions needed to power our economy, power our lives, and create a healthier, more prosperous future for our kids and grandkids." The Honourable Catherine McKenna Minister of Environment and Climate Change Related Information Energy Innovation Program Follow us on Twitter: @NRCan (http://twitter.com/nrcan) SOURCE Natural Resources Canada [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Clutch Announces the 2019 Leading Developers Across a Variety of Technology Focus Areas WASHINGTON, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- This morning, the leading B2B ratings and reviews platform Clutch released its annual rankings of the top development companies for the following categories: iPad Developers, Wearables Developers, Cross Platform Developers, Boutique App Developers, Freelance App Developers, Google Android Certified App Developer, Software Testing Companies, AngularJS Developers, Java Developers, NodeJS Developers, .NET Developers, Python and Django Developers, Ruby on Rails Developers, WordPress Developers, Drupal Developers, PHP Developers, Magento Developers, Shopify Developers, BigCommerce Developers, Chatbot Companies, Machine Learning Companies. The rankings are based on the companies' high client satisfaction, diverse market presence, and their track record of high-quality results. The leaders can be found in the following research lists: https://clutch.co/app-developers/ipad https://clutch.co/app-developers/wearables https://clutch.co/app-developers/cross-platform https://clutch.co/app-developers/boutique https://clutch.co/app-developers/freelance https://clutch.co/app-developers/android-certified https://clutch.co/developers/testing https://clutch.co/developers/angularjs/ "Only the most versatile and knowledgeable developers can keep up with the abundance of new technologies created every year," said Clutch Business Analyst Misty Lopez. "These developers stand out based on their ability to adapt to these new technologies and techniques and apply them to a variety of development projects for their clients. We are excited to feature them on our platform." Clutch's research is ongoing and rankings are dynamic. The Clutch team invites interested companies to apply to get listed in the report next year. The results are a snapshot of Clutch's Leaders Matrices on Thursday, May 16. Rankings are dynamic and may not reflect the rankings currently listed on Clutch's website. About Clutch A B2B research, ratings, and reviews firm in the heart of Washington, D.C., Clutch connects small and medium businesses with the best-fit agencies, software, or consultants they need to tackle business challenges together and with confidence. Clutch's methodology compares business service providers and software in a specific market based on verified client reviews, services offered, work quality, and market presences. Contact Sara Philibotte (202) 609-9922 [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/clutch-announces-the-2019-leading-developers-across-a-variety-of-technology-focus-areas-300856825.html SOURCE Clutch [May 28, 2019] Credo and Innovium Demonstrate Connectivity Solutions at Computex TAIPEI, Taiwan, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Computex CREDO , a global innovation leader in high performance, low power connectivity solutions for 100G, 400G, and 800G port enabled networks, and Innovium, Inc ., a leading provider of networking switch solutions for data centers, today announced they will be demonstrating Credos Active Electrical Cable (AEC) connectivity solutions with Innoviums industry-leading 12.8Tbps TERALYNX switch silicon at Computex 2019 in Taipei, TW. Interoperability demonstrations includes support for 400G based QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD and 400G to 100G based QSFP-DD to 4xQSFP28 AECs. Credos AEC solutions in conjunction with innovative 12.8T switch solutions from Innovium will accelerate the deployment of deterministic 400G enabled data center, service provider, and enterprise networks, said Jeff Twombly, vice president of marketing and business development at Credo. In addition to superior cost and power performance, Credo AECs are uniquely capable of providing speed-shifting functionality within the cable to increase data center architecture flexibility at reduced CapEx and OpEx. As customers adopt 400G for data center connectivity, the ability to use AECs to deploy lighter gauge, lighter weight, and superior bend radius solutions that also deliver longer reach for 50G PAM4 technology offers customers a major cost savings for high-bandwidth intra-rack and inter-rack connectiviy vs currently-available optical solutions. The extended reach capability of Credos AECs enables data center customers to drastically reduce CapEx by leveraging high radix production-ready 12.8Tbps switch solutions from Innovium to connect in-rack with speed-shifting AECs and to span across multiple server-storage racks with native 400G AEC connectivity, said Amit Sanyal, VP of Product Management and Marketing at Innovium. Innovium, the only provider of a low-latency, programmable 12.8Tbps switch silicon in the market, is excited to partner with Credo to demonstrate 100-400G interoperability with Credo's unique portfolio of AECs. To arrange to view the live demonstrations (May 28 May 31), contact Credo at [email protected] or [email protected] About Credo Credo is a leading provider of high performance, mixed-signal semiconductor device solutions for the data center, enterprise networking and high performance computing markets. Credo's advanced Serializer-Deserializer (SerDes) technology delivers the bandwidth scalability and end-to-end signal integrity for next generation platforms requiring single-lane 25G, 50G, and 100G connectivity for 100G, 400G, and 800G port enabled networks. For more information, please visit: www.credosemi.com . Credo Corporate Contact Helen Do, Credo, [email protected] About Innovium Innovium is a leading provider of high performance, innovative switching silicon solutions for data centers. Innovium TERALYNX family delivers production-ready, software compatible products ranging from 2Tbps to 12.8Tbps with unmatched telemetry, power efficiency, radix, programmability, buffers and low latency. Innoviums products have been selected and validated by market-leading switch OEM, ODM and cloud providers. The company is headquartered in Silicon Valley, California and is backed by leading venture capital firms including Greylock Partners, Walden Riverwood, Capricorn Investment Group, Qualcomm Ventures, S-Cubed Capital and Redline Capital. For more information, please visit: www.innovium.com . A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/afc37a14-09aa-4e49-9ece-3a2242a34a51 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] DaySmart Software Hosts Second Annual Women in Tech Conference DaySmart Software, the leading provider of business management software supporting small business growth, is hosting its second annual Women in Tech Conference on June 4 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The sold-out conference is being co-sponsored by Ann Arbor SPARK and FordLabs, and will take place in concert with the 2019 a2Tech360 - an annual week-long event series focused on promoting the Ann Arbor innovation ecosystem. This year's Women in Tech conference will feature three prominent female business leaders who will share their experiences navigating the technology industry and strategies for propelling their careers forward: Judy Asher - Ford (News - Alert) Motor Company's manager of cyber security, governance, risk and compliance, security and controls compliance; named "Women of the Year" by the Michigan Council of Women in Technology in 2018 and one of the "50 Names to Know in Information Technology" by Crain's Detroit in 2016 Tonya McCarley - an adjunct faculty member at the University of Michigan School of Information, DaySmart product manager and director of user experience with 24 years in sales and technology Lisa McLaughlin - co-CEO and co-founder of Workit Health, a telehealth addiction care company; recognized as the TechWeek Detroit Technology Women of the Year in 2017 Tech Talk on June 7 from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. ET. Brock Wackerle, DaySmart's corporate brand manager and SEO strategist, will host a talk titled, "An SEO Strategist's Climb to Page Zero," where he'll explain how he helped increase organic traffic to DaySmart's product pages by more than 150 percent in less than six months. Additionally, members of DaySmart's development department will serve as mentors for hackathon teams participating in the inaugural HackA2 2019 on June 8-9. As part of the hackathon, teams will be tasked with solving a problem the local Ann Arbor community is facing. "The Ann Arbor tech community is thriving and we're proud to be taking part in an event that celebrates the companies that are actively contributing to that growth," said Jeff Dickerson, CEO of DaySmart. "Our team's participation in the a2Tech360 event is a testament to DaySmart's commitment to supporting small businesses and tech entrepreneurs, and we're thrilled be able to host another conference dedicated specifically to supporting women in our tech ecosystem." The Women in Tech Conference will be hosted at FordLabs in downtown Ann Arbor. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. ET. There will be appetizers and drinks available, and the sessions will take place from 6:00 - 7:45 p.m. ET, followed by a meet and greet with the speakers and event organizers. Those interested in being put on the waitlist for tickets should email [email protected]. About DaySmart Software Makers of the popular and award-winning Salon Iris, Orchid, 123Pet and Inkbook software, DaySmart is the leading provider of business management tools designed to make it easier for entrepreneurs to run and grow their businesses. DaySmart desktop and cloud apps are purpose-built for the salon, spa, pet and tattoo industries, and backed by a US-based support team that is dedicated to client success. Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, DaySmart has been a small business champion since 1999. The company has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list for eight consecutive years. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005017/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Cho Nam-ju, author of the international best-seller "Kim Ji-young Born in 1982," speaks during a news conference for new book "Sakha Mansion" at the Press Center in Seoul, Tuesday. / Courtesy of Minumsa Publishing Group Best-selling author Cho Nam-ju unveils new fiction By Kang Hyun-kyung Cho Nam-ju, author of the international best-seller "Kim Ji-young Born in 1982," has released her much-anticipated new book "Sakha Mansion" dealing with her signature topic of the marginalized people struggling to assimilate into society. The title of her new fiction was derived from the namesake Russian Far Eastern Sakha Republic. The science fiction story revolves around the death of Soo, an upper-class woman who was in love with a modern-time untouchable man, Do-kyung, before she died. The police conclude Soo was murdered, and consider boyfriend Do-kyung to be a prime suspect. "Sakha is maybe the toughest region for people to live in because of its severe weather conditions," Cho said during a news conference for the book at the Press Center in central Seoul, Tuesday. "Its lowest temperature of the year hits below minus 70 degrees Celsius, whereas the highest annual temperature is over 30 degrees. Interestingly, about 50 percent of the world's diamonds are believed to be mined in the region. I chose Sakha for the title of my new book because it best represents the topic that I dealt with." Before Sakha was chosen, Cho said she changed the title several times because her publisher wanted a figurative, symbolic one that could capture her story. In "Sakha Mansion," Soo and Do-kyung represent two different social classes living in the fictional city state. Soo is a resident of a housing complex called Town inhabited by various upper-class, privileged people who lead luxurious lifestyles, whereas Do-kyung is from the lowest social class. He and his sister found a hideout in Sakha Mansion after they were falsely accused of murdering a man in their home country. Sakha Mansion is an enclave where undocumented immigrants and marginalized people reside. In the fictional city state, there is one more social class those who work for the people in Town. These people are low-paid laborers. They are legal residents and are allowed to live there for two years. Because of the similarities in circumstances, Sakha people in Cho's new fiction remind readers of refugees. Cho said she didn't try to focus on refugees, noting her definition of Sakha is broader than that. "I think it's reasonable if someone links Sakha people to refugees. Refugees could be part of Sakha but I used Sakha to refer to various groups of minorities. People who are not part of the mainstream are Sakha. In the book, women, elderly citizens, children and sexual minorities are part of Sakha," she said. Cho said her focus is consistent with her previous books because she has been dealing with the minorities. "The message that I wanted to deliver through this book is that minorities may be seen as being powerless but they try to make a difference for a better future," the author said. "Sakha Mansion" is Cho's fourth book. Beginning in March 2012, she said it took nearly seven years to finish her book. She likens herself to an artist who continues to repaint to improve her work. As an author, Cho said she tried to send a certain message to society as well as her readers through her book and being readable is not her prime focus. She said the success of her previous book "Kim Ji-young" helped her build confidence that as an author she could change the world. "I was told many times that it's hard for authors or books to change the world. After the success of my previous book, however, I found hope that we, authors, can make a difference," she said. Kim rose to international fame for "Kim Ji-young" which tells the story of an ordinary housewife on a career break and her struggles for gender equality both in her prior career and at home. Published in 2016, the book became a best-seller in Korea and has sold over 1 million copies as the publication coincided with the rise of the feminist movement here. The book has been translated into Japanese and Chinese and became a best-seller in Japan and Taiwan. [May 28, 2019] Landmark RATULS Research Trial of Robot-Assisted Stroke Therapy Utilizes BIONIK's InMotion Robotic Therapy Systems BIONIK Laboratories Corp. (OTCQB: BNKL) ("BIONIK" or the "Company"), a robotics company focused on providing rehabilitation and assistive technology solutions to individuals with neurological and mobility challenges from hospital to home, today announced the completion of a landmark Robot Assisted Training for the Upper Limb after Stroke (RATULS) trial utilizing the Company's InMotion Robotic Therapy Systems. Results of the RATULS trial were presented at the European Stroke Organisation Conference (ESOC) in Milan, Italy on May 22, 2019 and published in the Lancet Online Journal on the same day. The study's purpose was to compare clinical effectiveness of robot assisted training, enhanced upper limb therapy, and usual care for patients with moderate or severe upper limb functional limitation. The RATULS trial began in 2014 and was completed end of 2018. "We are pleased that the RATULS trial confirmed the finding of previous research studies which demonstrated that robot-assisted therapy improved upper limb impairment when compared with conventional care methods for stroke victims. The trial's finding that robotic therapy is the only therapy to statistically maintain a significant impairment advantage at six months after treatment is a strong signal that robotic therapy is critical for achieving positive patient outcomes," said Dr. Eric Dusseux, CEO, BIONIK Laboratories. "BIONIK's InMotion Robotic Therapy Systems have been selected for some of the largest interventional research studies over the past 10 years, including the Veterans Affairs Robotics Trial which confirmed robot-assisted therapy improvement in upper limb impairment using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA (News - Alert)), a stroke-specific, performance-based impairment index. In the VA study, the impairment advantage achieved through robot-assisted therapy translated into significant upper limb function improvements using the Wolf Motor Function Test." For the RATULS trial, the primary outcome for upper limb success was determined by Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), with four distinct success criteria that varied according to baseline severity, not used previously and developed by the RATULS trial team. Although the findings demonstrated that robot-assisted therapy improved upper limb impairment, using this ARAT measurement, the trial was unable to conclude that robot-assisted therapy or enhanced upper limb therapy resulted in improved upper limb functionality after stroke compared with usual care provided to patients with stroke-related upper limb functional limitation. The attrition rate was also drastically reduced in patient population following either robotic therapy or enhanced upper limb therapy versus usual care only, and most of the withdrawals before 3 months in usual care were due to disappointment with treatment allocation. BIONIK recognizes the difficulty of creating a level playing field for comparing technology-assisted therapy to conventional methods and commends Professor Helen Rogers and her UK research team for their diligent undertaking and extensive study of 770 patients over a four-year time eriod. "We appreciate the ongoing medical study of innovative technology designed to improve patient recovery from stroke. We are also grateful for the extensive feedback provided by patients and clinical practitioners over the past three years as we have actively researched and developed improved capabilities for our robotic rehabilitation systems," said Dr. Dusseux. "The combination of evidenced-based medicine and real-world clinical feedback have led to the release of substantially improved versions of the InMotion ARM (News - Alert)TM Robotic Therapy System announced in early 2018, and the InMotion ARM/HANDTM Robotic Therapy System announced beginning of 2019. These versions of our products include enhanced software applications with patient-centric configurable protocols to assist the therapist in providing specialized treatment of stroke and traumatic brain injury. BIONIK looks forward to providing the most advanced solutions to allow clinicians to develop the appropriate rehabilitation methods to address upper limb impairment and reduced arm function. We have seen robotic therapy utilized effectively due to its inherent repeatability and predictability which facilitates the standardization of treatment protocols and consistent measurement of patient progress, another great way to reinforce the patient's motivation." BIONIK's InMotion Robotic Systems have now been utilized in two of the largest interventional trials completed for upper limb evaluation in the past 10 years. The Company's robotic-assisted rehabilitation technologies were previously utilized in a trial led by the Providence Veteran Affairs Medical Center, involving 127 patients with moderate-to-severe upper-limb impairments six months or more after stroke. The results of that study were published in The New England Journal of Medicine in April of 2010. To read the complete RATULS study, please visit the Lancet Online Journal. About BIONIK Laboratories Corp. BIONIK Laboratories is a robotics company focused on providing rehabilitation and mobility solutions to individuals with neurological and mobility challenges from hospital to home. The Company has a portfolio of products focused on upper and lower extremity rehabilitation for stroke and other mobility-impaired patients, including three products on the market and four products in varying stages of development. For more information, please visit www.BIONIKlabs.com and connect with us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Forward-Looking Statements Any statements contained in this press release that do not describe historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements, which involve assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies, and expectations, are generally identifiable by use of the words "may," "should," "would," "will," "could," "scheduled," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "believe," "intend," "seek," or "project" or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements regarding (i) the plans and objectives of management for future operations, including plans or objectives relating to the design, development and commercialization of human exoskeletons and other robotic rehabilitation products, (ii) a projection of income (including income/loss), earnings (including earnings/loss) per share, capital expenditures, dividends, pipeline of potential sales, capital structure or other financial items, (iii) the Company's future financial performance, (iv) the market and projected market for our existing and planned products and (v) the assumptions underlying or relating to any statement described in points (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) above. Such forward-looking statements are not meant to predict or guarantee actual results, performance, events or circumstances, and may not be realized because they are based upon the Company's current projections, plans, objectives, beliefs, expectations, estimates and assumptions, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties and other influences, many of which the Company has no control. Actual results and the timing of certain events and circumstances may differ materially from those described by the forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties. Factors that may influence or contribute to the inaccuracy of the forward-looking statements or cause actual results to differ materially from expected or desired results may include, without limitation, the Company's inability to obtain additional financing, the significant length of time and resources associated with the development of our products and related insufficient cash flows and resulting illiquidity, the Company's inability to expand the Company's business, significant government regulation of medical devices and the healthcare industry, lack of product diversification, volatility in the price of the Company's raw materials, and the Company's failure to implement the Company's business plans or strategies. These and other factors are identified and described in more detail in the Company's filings with the SEC (News - Alert). The Company does not undertake to update these forward-looking statements. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005146/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Millitronic Launches Wireless Gigabit Docking Station TAIPEI, Taiwan, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Millitronic Co., Ltd., a leading developer of 60GHz mmWave total solutions, today announced the availability of its commercial wireless gigabit docking HIVE and wireless gigabit USB3.0 adapter MG360 video networking product in response to the ever-increasing push by docking ODM to provide multi-gigabit bandwidth for laptop wireless docking solutions. The product incorporates the Peraso 802.11ad chipset in addition to having increased capacity. Having high-frequency 60GHz, means it provides greenfield spectrum that is virtually interference free in contrast to existing 2.4/5GHz bands, which have become saturated and do not offer a reliable channel of communication. The low latency and high bandwidth aspect of WiGig technology is essential for video application usage, such as a video conference room. The benefit of 60GHz bandwidth user can remove the UVC IP camera USB cables and monitor HDMI display cables from the video conferencing console with ease. An example would be engaging in Skype business conferences using a single console. "The introduction of the HIVE and MG360 wireless video product brings forth a new era of performance and reliability for the video networking market" explains Alex Lin, President of Millitronic. "For example, most of the current laptops are not equipped with 802.11ad modules. However, with our MG360 802.11ad USB dongle and SDN (software defines network USB over IP), users can wirelessly extend HDMI/ VGA/USB3.0/Ethernet from their laptop to the docking station." "Peraso is thrilled to see the introduction of the Millitronic wireless video products to the market. Millitronic are pioneers in the wireless docking industry, and are clearly demonstrating the technical advantages that 60 GHz brings to this marketplace," said Ron Glibbery, founder and senior VP of corporate development at Peraso. Millitronic's products have multiple advantages over other products in the networking video market: The MG360 USB adapter is the first WiGig dongle to acquire FCC/ TELEC certification Hive wireless dock provides USB3.0/HDMI/VGA/ethernet interface Advanced software define network (HIVE can send both touch screen signals and UVC camera video sources to the connected laptop) Standard video quality [email protected] ( 4K @30fps optional) HIVE/ MG360 is available at Newegg market place https://www.newegg.com/p/0EP-00SF-00002 About About Millitronic Co., Ltd. Millitronic is a technical-based system integration company headquartered in New Taipei City, Taiwan. The company focuses on the development of 60GHz solutions that comply with the IEEE802.11ad/ay specification. Visit us at www.millitronic.com.tw 2019 Millitronic Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. Specifications are subject to change without prior notice. Some trademarks may be claimed as the property of others. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/millitronic-launches-wireless-gigabit-docking-station-300856945.html SOURCE Millitronic Co., Ltd. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Nanobiotix announces the launch of curadigm : a new nanotechnology platform for healthcare NANOBIOTIX ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF CURADIGM: A NEW NANOTECHNOLOGY PLATFORM FOR HEALTHCARE Curadigm opens new growth pathways for Nanobiotix beyond oncology, built on the success and know-how established through the development of NBTXR3 Curadigm will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nanobiotix and the platform will be further developed through multiple anticipated partnerships Curadigm Nanoprimer technology aims to prime the body to receive various therapeutics and could reshape the balance between efficacy and toxicity for patients In vivo proof of concept data were presented during AACR 2019 After achieving the milestone of our first European market approval for Nanobiotixs lead oncology product candidate, NBTXR3, our business continues to build momentum. We are thrilled to announce the launch of our subsidiary, Curadigmanother disruptive technology platform we have built as a result of pioneering nanomedicine for more than 15 years. While Nanobiotix remains focused on continued development of NBTXR3, we are pleased to open new growth pathways for our business and shareholders. Laurent Levy, CEO of Nanobiotix Paris, France and Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, May 28, 2019 NANOBIOTIX (Euronext: NANO ISIN: FR0011341205), a clinical-stage nanomedicine company pioneering new approaches to the treatment of cancer, today announced the launch of new subsidiary Curadigm, dedicated to redefining the therapeutic balance between bioavailability, toxicity, and efficacy across the pharmaceutical industry. The company will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nanobiotix and operate in France and in the US with a dedicated team committed to growth and potential financing opportunities. For most therapeutics today, only a small portion of the medicine administered is effective and the rest is cleared from the body without effect or may even be toxic. After injection, the dose moves through the circulatory system within the blood, and while a small portion reaches the targeted tissue the remainder is cleared or accumulates in organs such as the liver. Curadigm technology aims to change this balance through proprietary Nanoprimer technology. Leveraging over 15 years of experience in the development of nanotechnology at Nanobiotix, the company has created nano-scale objects that prime the body for treatment. These nanoparticles, called nanoprimers, have been designed with specific physico-chemical properties that allow them to transiently occupy the liver cells responsible for therapeutic clearance. Injected prior to the therapeutic, the nanoprimer increases systemic bioavailability allowing for increased accrual in the target tissue and therapeutic action. Curadigm technology shows potential to have broad implications across the healthcare system through its opportunity to increase the efficacy of therapeutics at their current dose, lower the necessary dose thereby decreasing toxicity and cost, and allow for novel therapeutic approaches (e.g. new approaches to drug design). In Vivo data proving the concept was published by Nanobiotix in Scientific Reports1 and presented at AACR2019.2 Curadigm will be led by Dr. Matthieu Germain, who holds deep expertise in the development of nanoparticles after more than 15 years with Nanobiotix, including initial development of the new technology. Dr. Kate Rochlin, leveraging her strong background in early stage company growth, will join the company as Director of Business Development. Under their leadership, Curadigm will maintain the same core values and spirit of its parent companyto significantly improve outcomes for millions of patients through a disruptive approach for therapeutics across healthcare. M. Germain et al., Priming the body to receive the therapeutic agent to redefine treatment benefit/risk profile, SCIENTIFIC REPORTS (2018) 8:4797 L. Poul et al., Prime the body to receive the treatment: how to improve nanomedicines efficacy, AACR 2019, poster 3613 -Ends- About NANOBIOTIX: www.nanobiotix.com Incorporated in 2003, Nanobiotix is a leading, clinical-stage nanomedicine company pioneering new approaches to significantly change patient outcomes by bringing nanophysics to the heart of the cell. The Nanobiotix philosophy is rooted in designing pioneering, physical-based approaches to bring highly effective and generalized solutions to address unmet medical needs and challenges. Nanobiotixs first-in-class, proprietary lead technology, NBTXR3, aims to expand radiotherapy benefits for millions of cancer patients. Nanobiotixs Immuno-Oncology program has the potential to bring a new dimension to cancer immunotherapies. Nanobiotix is listed on the regulated market of Euronext in Paris (Euronext: NANO / ISIN: FR0011341205; Bloomberg: NANO: FP). The Companys headquarters are in Paris, France, with a U.S. affiliate in Cambridge, MA, and European affiliates in Spain and Germany. About CURADIGM: www.curadigm.com Curadigm, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nanobiotix S.A., will be incorporated this year in France and will aim to expand treatment benefits by increasing drug bioavailability while decreasing unintended off-target effects, specifically liver and spleen toxicities. The Curadigm platform is being developed for use across multiple therapeutic classes to utilize biocompatible nanoparticles to transiently occupy the pathway responsible for therapeutic clearance and hepatic toxicity. The Curadigm platform is dedicated to bringing broadly applicable delivery technologies to patients to increase efficacy in both current & novel therapeutics and improve patient outcomes. Contact Nanobiotix Communications Department +33 (0)1 40 26 07 55 +1 (617) 852-4835 [email protected] Investor Relations Department +33 (0)1 79 97 29 99 +1 (646) 241-4400 [email protected] Media relations France - Springbok Consultants Marina Rosoff +33 (0)6 71 58 00 34 [email protected] United States RooneyPartners Marion Janic +1 (212) 223-4017 [email protected] Disclaimer This press release contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Nanobiotix and its business, including its prospects and product candidate development. Such forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that Nanobiotix considers to be reasonable. However, there can be no assurance that the estimates contained in such forward-looking statements will be verified, which estimates are subject to numerous risks including the risks set forth in the reference document of Nanobiotix registered with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorite des Marches Financiers) under number R.19-018 on April 30, 2019 (a copy of which is available on www.nanobiotix.com) and to the development of economic conditions, financial markets and the markets in which Nanobiotix operates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks not yet known to Nanobiotix or not currently considered material by Nanobiotix. The occurrence of all or part of such risks could cause actual results, financial conditions, performance or achievements of Nanobiotix to be materially different from such forward-looking statements. Attachment Nanobiotix_PR_launch_Curadigm_VFF [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Nevada Virtual Academy to Hold Commencement Ceremonies Across the State Nevada Virtual Academy (NVVA) will celebrate the Class of 2019 with two in-person commencement ceremonies across the state. An accredited, tuition-free online public charter school, NVVA is available to students in grades 6-12 across the state. "On behalf of the NVVA community, I am so pleased to congratulate the Class of 2019 on all they have accomplished," said Dr. Yolanda Hamilton, NVVA's head of school. "Each family begins a new journey with us, and it has been our honor to help them discover their unique skills, talents and passions in the online learning classroom, and beyond." NVVA graduates earn their high school diplomas in a personalized learning environment. Following graduation, members of the Class of 2019 will enroll in two- and four-year colleges and universities, enter military service, or join the full-time workforce. Graduating seniors report having been accepted to higher education institutions across the country, including Emory University, Indiana State University, Spelman College, University of evada - Las Vegas, and University of Oregon. More than 200 students will graduate from NVVA this year. Students access a robust online curriculum in the core subjects and a host of electives, and attend live virtual classes taught by state-licensed teachers. NVVA also offers field trips and social outings to foster a sense of school community, such as these annual graduation celebrations. Details of the ceremonies are as follows: Northern Nevada Graduation Ceremony Tuesday, May 28, 2019 - 11:00 a.m. PDT Nevada Museum of Art 160 W Liberty Street Reno, NV 89501 Las Vegas Graduation Ceremony Wednesday, May 29, 2019 - 7:00 p.m. PDT University of Nevada Las Vegas, Artemus Ham Concert Hall 4505 S. Maryland Parkway Las Vegas, NV 89154 Dr. Hamilton and graduating seniors will be available for media interviews. About Nevada Virtual Academy Nevada Virtual Academy (NVVA) is an AdvancED-accredited online public charter school serving students statewide in 6th through 12th grade. As part of the Nevada public school system, NVVA is tuition-free, giving parents and families the choice to access the curriculum provided by K12 Inc. (NYSE: LRN), the nation's leading provider of K-12 proprietary curriculum and online education programs. Learn more at nvva.k12.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005591/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] New Arizona State Trade Office in Israel Celebrated by the Arizona Israel Technology Alliance and Arizona Technology Council Following the passage of the Arizona state budget that includes funding for the establishment of an Arizona trade office in Israel, the Arizona Israel Technology Alliance (AITA) and the Arizona Technology Council (AZTC) today celebrated the move. AITA and AZTC have been instrumental in strengthening ties between Israel and Arizona, and have worked tirelessly to ensure the trade office became a reality. "Our goal has always been to promote trade and investment between Arizona and Israel, and establishing a trade office is a huge leap forward in that collaborative process," said Leib Bolel, president and CEO of the AITA, and venture partner at Grayhawk Capital. "We applaud Gov. Ducey and the state Legislature for recognizing the potential of trade relations between these two innovative powerhouses, which will reap economic benefits for years to come." Steven G. Zylstra, president and CEO of the Arizona Technology Council, shares Bolel's vision of increasing bilateral trade. He also serves on AITA's advisory board. "The Arizona Technology Council fully supports the new trade office in Israel," said Zylstra. "Our partnership with AITA has helped both Arizona and Israel solidify their global presence in the technology community. The passing of this legislation represents another step forward in establishing Arizona and Israel as influential leaders in innovation." Since AITA's inception, the number of Israeli companies with operations in Arizona has increased from 12 to 18. This increase doubled the workforce of local, Israeli-owned companies and led to numerous trade delegations between the two areas. To date, AITA has supported more than 100 Israeli companies seeking to increase ties with Arizona. AITA also created an advisory board in late 2018 to increase business and bilateral trade through B2B initiatives, business attraction and investment. AITA, which was established in October 201, has been instrumental in helping Israeli industry leaders like Airobotics, Eviation and IMNA Solutions open their U.S. headquarters in Arizona. "To see Arizona create a trade office in Israel aligns with the efforts and successes of the Arizona Israel Technology Alliance," said Eitan Weiss, consul general of Israel, Los Angeles. "I would like to thank Gov. Ducey for his vision and leadership, the Arizona legislature and the head of the legislative international committee, state representative Tony Rivero. I look forward to the ever-strengthening relations." The relationship between Arizona and Israel benefits both parties because both areas align in key industries, including autonomous vehicles, digital health, aerospace and cybersecurity. AITA is embracing similarities to help propel both Arizona and Israel forward in the global trade economy. The legislation that created the trade office was spearheaded by Arizona Rep. Tony Rivero and supported by a variety of public and private sector leaders. Rep. Rivero advocated to include funding in Arizona's budget for the Israeli office, as well as for expanding Arizona's trade presence in Mexico. "Israel's new trade office is a major victory for Arizona," said Rivero. "This development not only helps reinforce Arizona's reputation as a business-friendly state, but it also provides Arizona and Israeli companies with an additional avenue to succeed in the global marketplace." About the Arizona Israel Technology Alliance The Arizona Israel Technology Alliance (AITA) serves as the premier resource for companies and organizations in Arizona and Israel on collaborative initiatives. AITA is dedicated to promoting and strengthening business, investment, entrepreneurship, technology and trade relations between the technology communities of Arizona and Israel. AITA's purpose is to increase and support bilateral trade and investment between Arizona and Israel, with each offering resources and opportunities across the technology industry. Visit the Arizona Israel Technology Alliance's website at www.arizonaisrael.com. About the Arizona Technology Council The Arizona Technology Council is Arizona's premier trade association for science and technology companies. Recognized as having a diverse professional business community, Council members work towards furthering the advancement of technology in Arizona through leadership, education, legislation and social action. The Council offers numerous events, educational forums and business conferences that bring together leaders, visionaries and community members to make an impact on the technology industry. These interactions contribute to the Council's culture of growing member businesses and transforming technology in Arizona. To become a member or to learn more about the Arizona Technology Council, please visit www.aztechcouncil.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005836/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] STAR Systems International Launches US Based Subsidiary in Dallas, Texas HONG KONG, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- STAR Systems International Limited, a professional services provider, manufacturer and supplier of RFID readers, transponders, antennas, and accessories, has announced the opening of STAR Systems America LLC, its new US-based subsidiary located in Dallas, Texas. "The mission of STAR Systems America is to provide a platform to better serve our US and Latin American customers through local support and other professional services," said Stephen Lockhart, STAR Systems America President. "By providing a US base of operations we can more efficiently promote and expand the STAR Systems brand throughout the Americas." "Since the founding of STAR Systems International six years ago, our focus has been to provide the best products and the best technical support in the industry," said Bob Karr, STAR Systems International CEO. "The launch of a US based subsidiary continues our commitment to support of the US and Latin American markets." STAR Systems America will offer the same, high-qualiy, high-performance products and solutions that STAR Systems International partners have come to know over the past six years. STAR Systems America's products will include, but are not limited to, the multi-protocol Titan RFID reader, Avior antenna, and a variety of transponders and antennas targeted at vehicle identification applications. About STAR Systems International STAR Systems International is a leading provider of best-in-class technologies for Smart City Initiatives including; Electronic Tolling (ETC), Electronic Vehicle Registration (EVR), Fleet Management, Parking and Secure Access Control applications. STAR Systems' mission is to enable its partners and users to experience high-performance and reliable integrated solutions which are key elements of any modern Smart City initiative. For more information on STAR Systems International, visit www.star-int.net. Media Contact North American Agency: Spectrum Marketing & Communications, LLC Bob Basmadjian (908) 884-5249 [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/star-systems-international-launches-us-based-subsidiary-in-dallas-texas-300856815.html SOURCE STAR Systems International [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] StormGeo appoints new Chairman as part of strategy to further accelerate growth The newly appointed Non-executive Chairman, Carsten Mortensen, holds extensive senior leadership and operational experience from leading players in the global maritime and energy industry, and will play an important role in supporting StormGeo in its next phase of growth. BERGEN, Norway, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- StormGeo today appointed Carsten Mortensen as new Non-executive Chairman to its Board of Directors. He brings more than 30 years of operational experience, having held leadership positions at global Nordic companies, such as A.P. Mller-Mrsk, D/S Norden and most recently as CEO of BW Group. Furthermore, Carsten Mortensen has been a strong advocate for the adoption of digital services and sustainable business practices through his Chairmanships of the Danish Shipowners Association and "Vkstteam", an initiative to fuel growth in the maritime industry supported by the Danish Government. Rikke Kjr Nielsen, Partner at EQT Partners, comments, "We are proud to announce Carsten as StormGeo's new Chairman. In addition to direct experience with some of the company's largest customers, he has an excellent track record of growing Nordic companies into global champions via a relentless focus on speed and execution, innovative business models and developing people. We also thank Jonas Persson for his valuable work as Chairman, particularly his successful efforts to advanc StormGeo's technology capabilities and look forward to the continued cooperation on technology related topics." Carsten Mortensen, incoming Non-executive Chairman of StormGeo, comments, "StormGeo is an exciting company that operates at the forefront of global megatrends, such as climate change, digitalization and increasing regulations. I believe that with my experience, I will be able to assist the talented people at StormGeo in pursuing their mission to continuously create world-leading products, which reduce risk and increase safety for its customers." Following recent years of focus on advancing StormGeo's capabilities within software development and advanced data sciences, the outgoing Non-executive Chairman Jonas Persson comments, "Over the past years, StormGeo has successfully leveraged its core assets to create integrated ecosystems that reduce fuel consumption, optimize energy production and take advantage of modern technology to the benefit of its customers and society. I believe that Carsten is the ideal candidate to help StormGeo advance its strategic agenda, and I look forward to following StormGeo's continued growth journey." The appointment of Carsten Mortensen as Non-executive Chairman follows other recent appointments to the Board of Directors. In March 2019, Henrik Dahl, the founder and former CEO of Eniram, stepped into the Board of Directors, while also Trond Hodne, Director Business Development at DNV GL, acceded to the Board. The appointments align with StormGeo's strategic vision to provide the most innovative decision support solutions and services for weather-sensitive operations helping its customers safeguard people, assets and profits. Carsten Mortensen assumes the new role with immediate effect. About StormGeo StormGeo is a global provider of weather intelligence and decision support services, with leading solutions for shipping, oil and gas, renewable energy and aviation. More than 12,000 ships rely on StormGeo software or services for navigational planning, route optimization, weather and fleet performance. The company has 27 offices in 15 countries, including six 24/7/365 global operations centers. A participant in the UN Global Compact for Sustainable Ocean Business, our passion for weather and the protection of natural resources motivates us to support our clients in making informed, environmentally responsible business decisions. For more information, visit www.stormgeo.com. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/893413/StormGeo.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/701360/StormGeo_Freedom_RGB_Logo.jpg [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] TransEnterix Announces Japanese Regulatory Approval of the Senhance Surgical System TransEnterix, Inc. (NYSE American: TRXC), a medical device company that is digitizing the interface between surgeons and patients to improve minimally invasive surgery, today announced that it has received Japanese regulatory approval for the Senhance Surgical System. "Regulatory approval in Japan is a pivotal milestone for our company, as Japan is second only to the U.S. as the world's largest surgical robotics market," said Todd M. Pope, president and chief executive officer of TransEnterix. "Japan's high penetration of laparoscopic surgery coupled with their rapid adoption of robotics and the intense focus on procedure cost creates a considerable market opportunity for Senhance." The Senhance Surgical System was approved ("Shonin") by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) for use in laparoscopy for general surgery, gynecology, urology and certain thoracic procedures. "Approval of the Senhance Surgical System for use in laparoscopic procedures in Japan is a major achievement," said Professor Shigeki Yamaguchi, M.D., Ph.D., Chief of Colorectal Surgery at Saitama Medical University International Medical Center. "As the first hospital in Japan to obtain and utilize the Senhance Surgical System to treat patients, I believe this technology allows surgeons to offer excellent minimally invasive procedures that add precision and visual control while leveraging a familiar laparoscopic approach with minimal additional costs to the health system." Japan is the second-largest medical device market in the world, valued at over $40 billion annually, including over $5 billion in capital equipment spending. There are more than 8,400 hospitals in Japan, of which approximately 80% are private entities. Japanese laparoscopic penetration in surgery is among the highest in the world. The central government has implemented cost containment initiatives in recent years and has approached recent procedure approvals for robotics by establishing reimbursement at the same rate as traditional laparoscopy, which plces a high emphasis on procedure cost to influence adoption. About Saitama Medical University International Medical Center Saitama Medical University International Medical Center was established in April 2007 with the objective of contributing to regional and Japanese medicine, aiming to create an internationally competitive world-class hospital. Their mission is to cover all areas of Saitama prefecture, to be dedicated in highly specialized medical service for cancer and heart disease, and to provide advanced critical and emergency medical care. The medical center is affiliated with Saitama Medical University Medical Hospital, and is one of the top ranked hospitals in Japan. Saitama Medical University International Medical Center is the first university hospital in Japan to be Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited. About TransEnterix TransEnterix is a medical device company that is digitizing the interface between the surgeon and the patient to improve minimally invasive surgery by addressing the clinical and economic challenges associated with current laparoscopic and robotic options in today's value-based healthcare environment. The Company is focused on the commercialization of the Senhance Surgical System, which digitizes laparoscopic minimally invasive surgery. The system allows for robotic precision, haptic feedback, surgeon camera control via eye sensing and improved ergonomics while offering responsible economics. The Senhance Surgical System is available for sale in the US, the EU and select other countries. For more information, visit www.transenterix.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes statements relating to the current regulatory and commercialization plans for the Senhance Surgical System. These statements and other statements regarding our future plans and goals constitute "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, and are intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that are often difficult to predict, are beyond our control and which may cause results to differ materially from expectations and include whether the Japanese robotic surgical market will create a considerable market opportunity for the Senhance Surgical System and whether the Senhance Surgical System will allow surgeons to offer excellent minimally invasive procedures that add precision and visual control while leveraging a familiar laparoscopic approach with minimal additional costs to the health system. For a discussion of the risks and uncertainties associated with TransEnterix's business, please review our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC (News - Alert)), including our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on February 27, 2019 and our other filings we make with the SEC. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward looking statements, which are based on our expectations as of the date of this press release and speak only as of the origination date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005181/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 27, 2019] Sanitary ware brand JOMOO pioneers China's smart home development SHANGHAI, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Chinese sanitary ware brand, JOMOO, is connecting its products with the Internet and using cloud computing to explore new development space in smart home health management. The 24th Kitchen & Bath China 2019 opened in the Shanghai New International Expo Center on May 27. Industrial giant JOMOO attended the event with pioneering high-tech products under the theme "bathing in a smart future". JOMOO and Huawei announced a strategic partnership that morning at the launch ceremony of JOMOO Cloud smart health manager and super suite. The two companies will leverage their strengths further in their respective fields to explore new space for the development of smart home health management based on users' smart healt management scenarios. The cooperation and application of smart kitchen and bathroom and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies have become important trends in the further upgrading of the smart home industry with the rise of 5G, AI and other new technologies. Based on its clear judgment on this, JOMOO has long taken "intelligence plus health" as its strategic direction in building a smart space. Through IoT technology and cloud computing, user data can be collected, stored, analyzed, processed and given feedback, making the sanitary ware system a smart health manager. "As a national sanitary ware industrial leader, JOMOO is always committed to creating a more comfortable and healthy living space with smart technologies. JOMOO keeps partnering with leading brands in various fields during this process and the comprehensive cooperation with Huawei Cloud will be a major leap forward in our smart sanitary ware development," said Lin Xiaowei, Director of JOMOO European Operations Center. "JOMOO Cloud will connect all our products and become a smart health manager. The complete set of solutions will also be applied in our newly released smart bathroom space," Lin added. Image Attachments Links: http://asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=337057 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 27, 2019] D-Link (India) Honored at the 10th Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Awards 2019 NEW DELHI, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- With the theme of 'Promoting Inclusive Economic Development Through Sustainable Entrepreneurship', 15 top entrepreneurs and enterprises were recognized at the Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Awards (APEA) 2019 held at Hotel Andaz Delhi Aerocity, India recently. Organized by Enterprise Asia, the leading non-governmental organization for entrepreneurship in Asia, APEA is a regional awards program which aims to recognize Asia's outstanding entrepreneurs and enterprises for demonstrating sustainable growth, responsible leadership and operational excellence. Leading the list of winners was D-Link (India) Limited for Telecommunications & ICT Industry, which received the award under the Corporate Excellence Category. Modeled closely on the thought that 'Innovation leads to Progress', D-Link (India) champions the cause of breaking new ground in the field of technology. Formed in 1986 by a group of zealous technocrats, the Company is today regarded as one of the foremost network integrating companies globally. The company started with building products to connect desktop using Hubs/ Switches, right up to the Laptop era by connecting the world with Wireless Access Points. In the prevalent digital age, D-Link continues to foster and play a primary role in networking innovation with its latest wireless and cloud based solution. Most of the Company's latest offering today are based on the Internet of Things which is the future of technology. In 1995 following the liberalization of economy and Internet boom, D-Link made a speedy foray into the Indian market. Capitalizing on the dot-com era, the Company patterned their ambitions on newer possibilities, and consequently becoming synonymous with the Internet revolution. It comes as no surprise that the Company is defined as one of the trailblazers of the broadband products in the country. As the Indian arm of the conglomerate D-Link Corporation, D-Link India is today deemed as one of the largest networking company in the country. The Company is engaged in marketing and distribution of networking products in India and SAARC region. With PAN India reach, robust product portfolio and excellent service infrastructure, it is regarded as a key market player. It merits, therefore, that the quities of D-Link are listed in NSE & BSE. The Company puts into effect and supports unified network solutions that integrate competencies in switching, wireless, broadband, IP Surveillance, CCTV, cloud-based network management, and structured cabling. Emphasis on high performance and development has led to D-Link being a trusted vendor in home, SMB/SME and Enterprise networking space. D-Link truly believes in the principle of 'Sustainability' which comes with a cohesive team, steady growth, localisation of products & technology. As an organization, it is constantly working towards achieving operational excellence, quality deliverables, and outstanding field performance. Its strategies are defined on the basis of 'Economic, Social and Ecological Objectives' which essentially relates to Profit, People and Planet. Strong teamwork is the fabric of D-Link's daily operations. The Company puts the best minds to work thus optimizing output. Scaling up its business goals, it demonstrates brilliant astuteness while enhancing stakeholder's contribution. Believing in the dynamism of their expert team, human resources is an integral part of the core business. More than 200 strong workforces across India function together to achieve quantum leap which is the company's competitive edge. As a responsible corporate entity, the Company aims to achieve a progressive change in the society. For this reason, social welfare and Corporate Social Responsibility are an integral part of the company's value system. It focuses on initiatives for encouraging community involvement and sustainable development. D-Link is an active member of Self4Society (a CSR platform recently launched by India's Prime Minster) promoting employees from IT sector to volunteer in social endeavours to build a New India. Furthermore, the Company is among the top three organizations with 7400+ hours of service logged by its employees. D-Link's growth story in the Indian sub-continent has been phenomenal. Especially in the past five years where it has demonstrated stupendous growth with an approximate revenue of USD 100 million for CY 2018. D-Link has a strong team of over 200 employees with 13 branches pan India. Its distribution network comprises of a profitable mix of National Distributor, Business Distributor and Channel Partners. At present the Company has four National Distributors, more than 80 Business Distributors, over 15000 re-seller/ partners along with 2000+ System Integrators catering to the networking needs of customers. The Company is committed towards delivering high quality, efficient, reliable networking and connectivity solutions. To attain this goal, it has invested in state of-the-art support infrastructure for both consumers & enterprises. The reliable service infrastructure encompasses of 10 service centres in class Tier 1 cities, 50+ partner service centres in Tier 2/ Tier 3 cities and logistic support in 500+ cities. With a vision to further its reach and expansion of its network, D-Link acquired its long-term solution partner - TeamF1 Networks (P) Ltd. in June 2014 as a wholly owned, but independently operated subsidiary. With this, the Company has integrated Team F1 expertise in developing software for its hardware, and is actively supporting the 'Make in India' movement. D-Link's R&D arm Team F1 Networks (a subsidiary) is a provider of networking and security software for embedded devices. As an engineering-focused company, TeamF1 is driven by innovation and provides customized cutting-edge solution for businesses across verticals. After three decades of successful innovation globally, and with over two decades of spectacular growth in India, D-Link continues to be recognized as a Prominent End- to-End Networking Solution Provider. The Company looks forward to an exciting future, and continues to develop world-class networking solutions in years to come. About Enterprise Asia Enterprise Asia is a non-governmental organization in pursuit of creating an Asia that is rich in entrepreneurship as an engine towards sustainable and progressive economic and social development within a world of economic equality. Its two pillars of existence are investment in people and responsible entrepreneurship. Enterprise Asia works with governments, NGOs and other organizations to promote competitiveness and entrepreneurial development, in uplifting the economic status of people across Asia and in ensuring a legacy of hope, innovation and courage for the future generation. For further information, visit www.enterpriseasia.org. About Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Awards Launched in 2007, the Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Awards is the region's most prestigious awards for outstanding entrepreneurship, continuous innovation and sustainable leadership. The Awards provide a platform for companies and governments to recognize entrepreneurial excellence, hence spurring greater innovation, fair business practices and growth in entrepreneurship. As a regional award, it groups together leading entrepreneurs as a powerful voice for entrepreneurship and serves as a by-invitation only networking powerhouse. The program has grown to encompass 14 countries and markets all over Asia. For further information, visit www.apea.asia. Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20190524/2477279-1 SOURCE Enterprise Asia [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Kang Seok-yeon, the chief of the biopharmaceutical policy division at the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, speaks during a press conference at the agency's headquarters in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, Tuesday. / Yonhap By Kang Seung-woo The health authorities canceled the license for Kolon Life Sciences' osteoarthritis gene therapy drug Invossa, Tuesday, over the mislabeling of a key ingredient and the false reporting of this to them. In addition, they have decided to pursue criminal charges against the pharmaceutical firm. Invossa was the nation's first gene therapy drug for patients with the degenerative joint disease. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety approved it use in Korea in July 2017 on the basis that it used cartilage-originated cells. However, Kolon instead manufactured and sold the drug manufactured with a material different from that used at the time of approval. According to the ministry, the company used cells originating from the kidney. "Kolon Life Science falsely reported ingredients, intentionally did not disclose additional data on the problem it discovered before submitting the drug for approval, and failed to provide a scientific reason for this," the ministry said. To see how and why the key material of the drug was changed, the ministry examined documents on the drug, while carrying out on-site inspections of the drug maker's production plants and research facilities in Korea and the United States. The ministry said Kolon TissueGene, Kolon Life Science's U.S. affiliate, knew some of the Invossa ingredients were derived from kidney cells in March 2017, four months before approval was granted, and notified the parent firm of the fact via email one day after approval. "Given that Kolon Life Science received the email at that time, it already knew the drug contained kidney cells. Under current regulations, the company should have told the truth even if it knew the fact one day after the ministry gave approval," Kang Seok-yeon, chief of the ministry's Biopharmaceutical Policy Division, said during a press conference at its headquarters in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province. Kolon suspended the sales and distribution of Invossa at the end of March, following a ministry directive after it belatedly reported the ingredient change to the ministry. Invossa was the 29th out of 30 novel therapies developed by a Korean company and approved by the local drug regulator, with 3,707 local patients being treated with it. The drug has been sold in Hong Kong and Macau, with the manufacturer announcing in January that it reached an export deal to ship the medicine to Singapore and Indonesia. It also signed a deal to ship the product to China last year. The ministry said there appear to be no safety problems with Invossa despite the changed ingredient. However, to check for possible side effects, it decided to conduct a tracking survey on the 3,707 patients for the next 15 years. In the wake of the ministry's decision, angered patients who have taken the drug have taken legal action against Kolon although so far there have been no cases of side effects linked to it. "Kolon needs to take responsibility for hiding its mistakes that directly have a bearing on the health of users and for trying to dodge responsibility," Oh Kims Law and Company, a law firm representing 244 patients, said in a press release. It filed a complaint with the Seoul Central District Court later in the day. [May 27, 2019] Tencent Global Digital Ecosystem Summit: Hitachi partners with Tencent Welink to promote development of the smart building sector KUNMING, China, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2019 Tencent Global Digital Ecosystem Summit kicked off on May 21, 2019 at Kunming Dianchi International Convention and Exhibition Center, Yunnan province, China. During the intelligent construction forum, a part of the summit, Hitachi Elevator (China) Co., Ltd. president Jia Yuhui delivered a speech entitled "Hitachi, with 100-year history, partners with Tencent Welink to promote development of the smart building sector". Following the speech, he engaged in in-depth exchanges with the attendees on the subject. In terms of digitalized construction of cities, smart buildings have become an inevitable trend in the construction industry whereby new technologies, including the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, energy management and integrated building information modeling (BIM). These have been increasingly used to make buildings intelligent. It is achieved by enabling an interconnection between smart building management and service information, as well as data sharing, network convergence and functional synergies. Knowing that elevators are closely connected to public transportation and also as an integral part of smart buildings, Hitachi has been committedto providing customers with "pressure-free mobility" transportation solutions. Mr. Jia explained, "Elevators, a product with 'inherent traffic', need to be intelligent so that they can meet the huge traffic demand by enabling an effective split flow of buildings and enhancing the building's operating efficiency." Meanwhile, elevators also serve as the entrance to various facilities. As a result, creating an ecosystem around elevators is expected to offer great potential and value. While connecting to other systems installed within buildings, including, access control and gate systems, cameras as well as delivery and security robots, elevators can enhance the intelligence and convenience of facilities. In addition, elevators are leading the transformation of the smart community and retail scenarios into independent self-functioning e-commerce entities in their own right. The development of smart buildings is driving the digital transformation of elevator manufacturers, including innovation in elevator products and intelligent interconnection between elevators and other systems within buildings. Hitachi plans to engage in in-depth collaborations with Tencent to jointly develop and create IoT solutions for smart cities and buildings. Along with a number of Chinese firms, Hitachi attended the summit with the goal of sharing its best practices in operations with partners from a variety of sectors and engaging in discussions with them on various models for collaboration. Furthermore, displaying solutions and products specially tailored for urban environments are also goals. Hitachi is evolving from a traditional manufacturer to a digital company via the building of an AIoT (AI + IoT) business by leveraging a century of experience in manufacturing in combination with the latest technologies, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and IoT, creating new value for society. Currently, Hitachi, in cooperation with Tencent, is supplying "pressure-free move" transportation solutions to Shanghai-based Lingang Group's Hero land project located in China-Israel (Shanghai) Innovation Park in Taopu, a town in the northwest section of Putuo district, Shanghai. By integrating Hitachi's smart elevator systems into Tencent Welink's intelligent visualization platform, the solutions offer a closely-knit interconnection between the elevators and other systems within buildings and digitalization of construction space, helping to create more human-centric buildings. Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20190524/2477312-1-a Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20190524/2477312-1-b SOURCE Hitachi Elevator (China) Co., Ltd. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 27, 2019] AMERICAN RENAL 24 HOUR DEADLINE ALERT: Approximately 24 Hours Remain; ClaimsFiler Reminds Investors with Losses in Excess of $100,000 of Deadline in Class Action Lawsuit against Renal Associates Holdings, Inc. - ARA ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have only until May 28, 2019 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against American Renal Associates Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ARA). Investor losses must relate to purchases of the Company's securities between August 10, 2016 and March 27, 2019. This action is pending in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. Get Help American Renal investors should visit us at https://www.claimsfiler.com/cases/view-americanrenal-associates-holdings-inc-securities-litigation-1 or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options. About the Lawsuit On March 27, 2019, the Company disclosed a range of negative information including the resignation of its CFO and that its financial results for the fiscal years ended 2014 through 2017 would be restated and could no longer be relied upon due to the Company's ongoing investigation into its revenue recognition methodology and related accounting matters. On this news, the price of American Renal's shares plummeted. About ClaimsFiler ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations. To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190527005307/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Synack Recognized as CREST Accredited Crowdsourced Penetration Testing Company Synack, the most trusted Crowdsourced Penetration Testing company, announced today it is now both CREST Accredited for penetration testing services and a CREST Member company in the USA. This is further recognition of Synack as the market leader in delivering the most effective, efficient penetration test. CREST is a not-for-profit accreditation and certification body that represents and supports the technical information security market. CREST was set up in 2006 in response to the clear need for more regulated professional services with known, dependable quality, and is now recognized globally as the cyber assurance body for the technical security industry. CREST has become the respected standard for penetration testing in countries across the world, where it is increasingly a mandatory requirement for companies that have the most stringent security requirements such as government and financial services. Synack has researchers in more than 60 of these countries. "This accreditation demonstrates that Synack's crowdsourced penetration testing follows well-established best practices while using software and the world's best security researchers," said Dr. Mark Kuhr, Synack CTO and co-founder. "CREST's accreditation examination determines if an organization meets its risk assessment, technical capability, and code of conduct standards. The CREST organisation clearly understands the challenges enterprises face today in scaling their security practices, and is supporting the G2000 by accrediting Synack to support these challenges. We appreciate the acknowledgement that Synack meets all of those critical requirements." Synack has prioritized trust, quality and insights as critical characteristics of a penetrtion test. The accreditation process determines if an organization meets risk assessment, technical capability, and code of conduct standards. Relative to a traditional penetration test, Synack believes that the crowdsourced approach provides additional testing rigor, enhanced technology, and deeper visibility and control. "The CREST accreditation provides further recognition of Synack penetration testing, offering the highest levels of technical quality and testing rigor" said David Charlton, Synack's Chief Product Strategist and former Head of Penetration Testing at JPMorgan Chase & Co. Not only does CREST offer an independent, third party assessment of a company's penetration testing capabilities, it also provides researchers with the opportunity to become CREST qualified researchers. Synack's crowd includes CREST certified penetration testers. Synack exposes its elite, global security researcher community in 60+ countries to the benefits of CREST. CREST offers a structured entry point for penetration testers globally and could serve as a significant stepping stone to members of the Synack's Red Team. Synack looks forward to working closely with members of its global community seeking CREST qualifications. This accreditation is another pillar showing that Synack takes trust seriously. Companies gain intelligence and efficiency by utilizing Synack to address vulnerabilities in a more efficient and effective way while maintaining a strong security posture. Those that work with Synack and use Crowdsourced Penetration Testing for 2+ years are up to 200% more secure than those that do not or have less than a year of usage. Today, Synack secures >$1 trillion in Fortune 500 revenue, 75% of the top credit card companies, Top 10 consulting firms and security companies, and over 50% of federal cabinet-level agencies. Synack has received awards including 2019 Cyber Defender by CB Insights, CIO Review's 20 Most Promising Enterprise Security Solution Providers, The Software Report's Top 25 CyberSecurity Companies, and Wealthfront's 2019 Career-Launching Companies. About Synack Synack, the most trusted crowdsourced security company, delivers comprehensive and continuous penetration testing with actionable results. The company combines the world's most skilled and trusted ethical hackers with AI-enabled technology to create a scalable, effective security solution. Headquartered in Silicon Valley with regional offices around the world, Synack protects leading global banks, federal agencies, DoD classified assets, and close to $1 trillion in Fortune 500 revenue. Synack was founded in 2013 by former US Department of Defense hackers Jay Kaplan, CEO, and Dr. Mark Kuhr, CTO. For more information, please visit www.synack.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190527005215/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] OSE Immunotherapeutics to Present at 5th Annual Immuno-Oncology: BD&L and Investment Forum NANTES, France, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- OSE Immunotherapeutics (ISIN: FR0012127173; Mnemo: OSE) today announced that Alexis Peyroles, chief executive officer, will provide a Company update, including recent accomplishments and future plans, at the upcoming 5th Annual Immuno-Oncology: BD&L and Investment Forum. The Forum is being held on May 31, 2019 in Chicago, in parallel with the international annual American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) meeting. Details of the presentation: Date and Time: May 31 , 2019 , 10 :30 AM Central Time Session: Track B Location: Waldorf Astoria Chicago Hotel, Faulkner Webcast: https://youtu.be/ue1fN_e4JOo About the Annual Immuno-Oncology: BD&L and Investment Forum Taking place on the first day of ASCO, the 5th Annual Immuno-Oncology BD&L and Investment Forum is designed to bring together thought leaders from cancer research institutes, patient advocacy groups, pharma and biotech to facilitate partnering, funding and investment. We expect over 250 delegates and around 30 presentations by listed and private biotechnology companies seeking licensing & investment. ABOUT OSE Immunotherapeutics OSE Immunotherapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing and partnering therapies to control the immune system for immuno-oncology and autoimmmune diseases. The company has a diversified first-in-class clinical portfolio consisting of several scientific and technological platforms including neoepitopes and agonist or antagonist monoclonal antibodies, all ideally positioned to fight cancer and autoimmune diseases. The most advanced therapeutic-candidate, Tedopi, is a proprietary combination of 10 neo-epitopes aimed at stimulating T-lymphocytes and is currently in Phase 3 development in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after checkpoint inhibitor failure (anti PD-1 and anti PD-L1) and in Phase 2 testing in pancreatic cancer in combination with checkpoint inhibitor Opdivo. FR104 (an anti-CD28 mAb) has successfully completed Phase 1 testing and has potential to treat autoimmune diseases. BI 765063 (OSE-172) (anti-SIRPa monoclonal antibody) is under a license and collaboration agreement with Boehringer Ingelheim ; this checkpoint inhibitor has received CTA from French and Belgian health authorities for Phase 1 clinical trial in multiple cancer indications. BiCKI is a bispecific fusion protein platform built on the key backbone component anti-PD-1 (OSE-279) and targeting innovative targets. OSE-127 (monoclonal antibody targeting the CD127 receptor, the alpha chain of the interleukin-7 receptor) is partnered with Servier under an option agreement up to the completion of a Phase 2 clinical trial planned in autoimmune bowel diseases; in parallel, Servier plans a development in the Sjogren syndrome. OSE-127 is currently under Phase 1 clinical trial. Click and follow us on Twitter and Linkedln https://twitter.com/OSEIMMUNO https://www.linkedin.com/company/10929673 Contacts OSE Immunotherapeutics U.S. Media: LifeSci Public Relations Sylvie Detry Darren Opland, Ph.D. [email protected] [email protected] +33 153 198 757 +1 646 627 8387 French Media: FP2COM U.S. and European Investors Florence Portejoie Chris Maggos [email protected] [email protected] +33 607 768 283 +41 79 367 6254 Forward-looking statements This press release contains express or implied information and statements that might be deemed forward-looking information and statements in respect of OSE Immunotherapeutics. They do not constitute historical facts. These information and statements include financial projections that are based upon certain assumptions and assessments made by OSE Immunotherapeutics management in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current economic and industry conditions, expected future developments and other factors they believe to be appropriate. These forward-looking statements include statements typically using conditional and containing verbs such as expect, anticipate, believe, target, plan, or estimate, their declensions and conjugations and words of similar import. Although the OSE Immunotherapeutics management believes that the forward-looking statements and information are reasonable, the OSE Immunotherapeutics shareholders and other investors are cautioned that the completion of such expectations is by nature subject to various risks, known or not, and uncertainties which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of OSE Immunotherapeutics. These risks could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed in or implied or projected by the forward-looking statements. These risks include those discussed or identified in the public filings made by OSE Immunotherapeutics with the AMF. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. This press release includes only summary information and should be read with the OSE Immunotherapeutics Reference Document filed with the AMF on 26 April 2019, including the annual financial report for the fiscal year 2018, available on the OSE Immunotherapeutics website. Other than as required by applicable law, OSE Immunotherapeutics issues this press release at the date hereof and does not undertake any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking information or statements. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] VMware Innovations Help Drive Asia Towards a Digital Future SINGAPORE, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- At the 2019 VMware CIO Forum held from 23 to 24 May, VMware, Inc. (NYSE: VMW), a leading innovator in enterprise software, outlined its strategy for empowering organizations across Southeast Asia and Korea to build the best digital foundation in order to grow alongside Asia's rapidly digitalizing economy. Attended by more than 100 C-level executives from the region, the capstone event delved deep into the myriad new business opportunities, from the development of Industry 4.0, to how cloud, mobility and security underpin the success of organizations looking to ride the region's new wave of growth. According to Gartner's 2019 CIO Survey, the survey results show that digital business has reached a tipping point. Forty-seven percent of Asia Pacific CIOs report their enterprises have already changed their business models or are in the process of changing them[1]. Thirty-one percent of Asia Pacific CIOs are also scaling up their digital transformation efforts to capitalize on the region's growth -- ASEAN's digital economy is projected to hit US$5.1 trillion by 2025 alone, up from US$200 billion in 2018[2]. While businesses in the region appear ready for the next chapter of their growth, lack of organizational agility and slow pace of change remain key obstacles to their digital transformation journeys[3]. "There is no question that businesses need to transform themselves to stay relevant in Asia's new economic paradigm. The question is how can they support innovation and business growth in the coming decades," said Sanjay K. Deshmukh, vice president and managing director, Southeast Asia and Korea, VMware. "With VMware's end to end portfolio of innovative solutions, we are laying out a blueprint for digital transformation success, so our customers can grow alongside the region's burgeoning digital economy." Driving Greater Cloud Outcomes and Opportunities On a multi-cloud journey, many organizations are challenged by increased complexities associated with diverse infrastructures, management tools, and processes. To address this, VMware introduced advancements to VMware Cloud recently, including enhancements to VMware Cloud Foundation, VMware vCloud Director, CloudHealth by VMware, increased access to Cloud Foundation-based services via new VMware Cloud on AWS in Singapore and more VMware Cloud Verified partners globally. With the portfolio update, VMware customers now have the flexibility and choice to leverage cloud to build, deploy and deliver the applications that drive their businesses. United Overseas Bank Limited (UOB) is the first organization in Southeast Asia to deploy VMware Cloud on AWS to support the Bank's digital innovation journey. Adhunik Chug, Head of Group Shared Infrastructure Services, Group Technology and Operations, UOB said, "VMware Cloud on AWS enables us to build our innovation platform on the cloud while maintaining our robust security standards. We are pleased to be the first company in Southeast Asia to use this integrated solution to power our innovation drive." The recent announcements of VMware Cloud on Dell EMC and Microsoft Azure VMware solutions further extend VMware's innovations to a wider range of customers to accelerate digital transformation in the region. VMware Cloud on Dell EMC will combine public cloud simplicity, agility and economics with the security, control and performance of on-premises infrastructure while Azure VMware Solutions will give customers the power to seamlessly migrate, extend and run existing VMware workloads from on-premises environments to Azure. VMware's expanded partnership with Dell Technologies and Microsoft gives businesses even more value and flexibility to accelerate their hybrid multi-cloud journey as they transform to meet the evolving needs of their customers. Helping Businesses Advance Their Digital Workspace Strategy As businesses move towards a multi-cloud environment, the nature of workplaces has also evolved rapidly from traditional desktops to resources and applications across multiple clouds. To support the new reality of work, VMware Workspace ONE customers will now have the ability to manage and secure the powerful productivity features of Office 365 across devices via cloud-based integration with Microsoft Intune and Azure Active Directory. This helps businesses get the most out of their digital workspace across device platforms while maximizing existing and future investments. In addition, VMware plans to extend the capabilities of Microsoft Windows Virtual Desktop to enable customers to further accelerate their cloud initiatives, leveraging VMware Horizon Cloud on Microsoft Azure. The expanded partnership represents a significant step forward for businesses through the provision of end user simplicity and enterprise security across their multi-device digital transformation journeys. Adopting an Intrinsic Security Approach from Endpoint to Cloud With cybersecurity fast becoming the key to success for any organizations' digital transformation efforts, VMware recently outlined a new security approach that focuses on applications more than infrastructure to shrink the attack surface and making security intrinsic to organizations. Through the introduction of the industry-first Service-defined Firewall and new Workspace ONE security capabilities, VMware leverages the unique properties of the virtual and mobile infrastructure to deliver unprecedented visibility into applications to secure data centers, clouds and the digital workspace, safeguarding organizations' digital transformation journeys. "Organizations in Asia are in a unique point in time where they are at the forefront of the global shift towards the innovation economy. To this end, VMware's focus on delivering innovations around Cloud, Mobility and Security will support our customers, as they embrace digital transformation to leapfrog into the next chapter of their growth journeys," added Deshmukh. [1] Gartner CIO Survey Reveals Digital Maturity in Asia/Pacific Has Reached a Tipping Point, Gartner Press Release, October 2018 [2] Advancing Towards ASEAN Digital Integration, Bain & Company, September 2018 [3] From follower to leader: Digital transformation and the road to 5G in southern Asia-Pacific, MIT Technology Review, November 2018 About VMware VMware software powers the world's complex digital infrastructure. The company's cloud, networking and security, and digital workspace offerings provide a dynamic and efficient digital foundation to over 500,000 customers globally, aided by an ecosystem of 75,000 partners. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, VMware is committed to being a force for good, from its breakthrough innovations to its global impact. For more information, please visit https://www.vmware.com/company.html. VMware, VMware Cloud, Cloud Foundation, vCloud, vCloud Director, CloudHealth, VMware Cloud Verified, Workspace ONE, Horizon and Horizon Cloud are registered trademarks or trademarks of VMware, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the United States and other jurisdictions. This article may contain hyperlinks to non-VMware websites that are created and maintained by third parties who are solely responsible for the content on such websites. SOURCE VMware [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Ivory Coast Accelerates Digital Migration with SES Ivory Coast's public broadcasting company, the Societe Ivoirienne de Telediffusion (SIDT), has selected SES (News - Alert) as its digital partner in a major move to meet the country's 2020 deadline for switching over from analogue to digital broadcasting. Under this multi-year agreement, 60 analogue turned digital channels will be broadcast with brighter, sharper picture and better sound, via the SES-4 satellite at 22 degrees West. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190527005177/en/ Ivory Coast Accelerates Digital Migration with SES (Photo: Business Wire) SES will be using the comprehensive coverage of SES-4 to ensure high service availability of bandwidth and to broadcast all channels via the Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) infrastructure across Ivory Coast. These digital channels will then be available to all Ivorian television (TV) viewers who have a digital set-top box or an integrated digital TV with a built-in DTT decoder. In addition to using SES-4 to accelerate the digital switchover, the capacity leased on SES-4 for digital broadcasting will also be used to broadcast Radiodiffusion Television Ivoirienne (RTI), the state's public TV network, to fulfill its public service mission of providing local news and information to Ivorians. "SES has provided us with an innovative solution to ensure deployment of digital TV by broadcasting multiplexes across the country. This is an important milestone as we are now one step closer to ending analogue service," said Yeo Adama, General Manager of the SIDT. "We are excited to work with SES, which has both the technical capabilities and the practical experience required to support our ambitious projects, including the implementation of new broadcasting standards." Follow us on: Social Media Blog Media Library About SES SES is the world's leading satellite operator with over 70 satellites in two different orbits, Geostationary Orbit (GEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO). It provides a diverse range of customers with global video distribution and data connectivity services through two business units: SES Video and SES Networks. SES Video reaches over 355 million TV homes, through Direct-to-Home (DTH) platforms and cable, terrestrial, and IPTV (News - Alert) networks globally. The SES Video portfolio includes MX1, a leading media service provider offering a full suite of innovative services for both linear and digital distribution, and the ASTRA satellite system, which has the largest DTH television reach in Europe. SES Networks provides global managed data services, connecting people in a variety of sectors including telecommunications, maritime, aeronautical, and energy, as well as governments and institutions across the world. The SES Networks portfolio includes GovSat, a 50/50 public-private partnership between SES and the Luxembourg government, and O3b, the only non-geostationary system delivering fibre-like broadband services today. Further information is available at: www.ses.com About SIDT Societe Ivoirienne de Telediffusion (SIDT) is a state company, created by decree n 2017-844 during the Council of Ministers on December 20, 2017. Its main purpose is to ensure the broadcasting of radio and television programs on the national territory of Ivory Coast. Its role as a broadcaster also gives it the following prerogatives: Management of sound and television broadcasting centers installed on the national territory; creation, operation, maintenance and extension of digital terrestrial television broadcasting networks; management and maintenance of the analogue television broadcasting network during the simulcasting period; provision of multiplexing, transport and broadcasting services for channels, TV packages, and public and private radios; promotion of cooperation with international technical bodies, coordinating with the institutions involved. Further information is available at: www.sidt.ci View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190527005177/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Managed Service Provide, Fifosys, Acquires Cloud-based IT Services Company, Foration LONDON, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Fifosys announces the acquisition of Foration to bolster their penetration in the London market and will be retaining Paul Weeden as the Commercial Director. Foration is an established, 10-year business that wanted to deliver 24/7 support to their client base. Their coming together and joining forces with Fifosys enables them to offer this valued capability across their client base. Mitesh Patel, Managing Director at Fifosys "I have followed Foration for the last five years and first met Paul at Dattocon 2015. I always wanted him to join our team and I'm very glad that we will be working together to deliver value to businesses in need of exceptional IT services." Paul Weeden, former Managing Director at Foration, now Commercial Director at Fifosys "I have always been proud of the level of serviceForation offered its clients, but to expand and grow our offering to deliver a consistent 24/7 service in-house would have taken years. Now that Foration is part of the Fifosys Group we can now deliver that consistent, high level of, support to our global client base." About the Company: Fifosys bring enterprise level solutions to mid-market and growing businesses, providing a business-centric approach to IT support, aligning IT strategy to business goals. Some of our most notable clients include: The Santon Group, Saatchi Gallery, Meantime Brewery, Get Living London and Dixon Jones. Our business was born out of passion and has been developed with pride. We strive to ensure that we embody our core values in all that we do. This is what makes us tick: We're trustworthy and transparent because we keep our integrity, we keep our clients We're inquisitive and innovative if it doesn't exist, we create it We're passionate and positive everything is possible Get in contact with the team at Fifosys today to find out how we can help you with your IT strategy going forwards. Find Us: 6 Hampstead West, 224 Iverson Road, London, NW6 2HL, UK Related Links: https://www.fifosys.com Media Contact: Mitesh Patel [email protected] Company Contact: +44 (0)20 7644 2610 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Voip-Pal.com Announces the Patent Trial and Appeal Board Rejected Apple's Request for Rehearing BELLEVUE, Washington, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Voip-Pal.com Inc. (Voip-Pal, Company) (OTCQB: VPLM) is pleased to provide an update on its current legal activities: On May 22, 2019, the Honorable Judge Lucy Koh denied as moot defendants Apple and Amazons Alice 101 consolidated motions to dismiss in Cases 18-CV-06216-LHK and 18-CV-07020-LHK. If they choose to, the defendants will have another opportunity to file a new motion by June 5, 2019. On May 24, 2019 the Patent Trial and Appeal Board denied Petitioner Apples request for a rehearing in Cases IPR2016-01198 and IPR2016-01201. On April 23, 2019, Voip-Pal filed a Notice of Appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit to appeal the Order Granting Defendants Consolidated Motion to Dismiss entered on March 25, 2019 in Case Nos. 18-CV-06177-LHK, 18-cv-06217-LHK, C, 18-cv-04523-LHK, 18-cv-06054-LHK. The appellants brief is due by June 25, 2019. Voip-Pal and their attorneys in Germany have been carefully weighing all options for seeking injunctive relief for its European patent. They are close to finalizing their strategy and expect to announce their proposed actions very soon. Recently, Voip-Pal CEO, Emil Malak authored an op-ed on the current status of the United States patent system. In his article, Mr. Malak calls for revamping the current patent system and praises the efforts of USPTO Director Andrei Iancu, who Mr. Malak believes is determined to correct the problems at the USPTO to better protect inventors and ecourage innovation. The op-ed was published on IPWatchdog.com. IPWatchdog.com has been recognized by their peers as one of the leading sources for news, information, analysis and commentary in the patent and innovation industries. The article can be viewed on IPWatchdog.com or at the Companys website www.voip-pal.com CEO, Emil Malak, stated, We are very pleased with the PTABs decision to deny Apples request for a rehearing. For the second time in recent months three senior PTAB judges have sided with Voip-Pal. They have confirmed the two challenged patents on their merits and rejected Apples accusations and innuendo. Since we launched our first legal actions in 2016 our patents have been heavily challenged and we expect more challenges may come. We are very confident in the strength of our patents and we believe they will survive any challenges that may come our way based on their technical merits. The current patent system favors the tech giants of Silicon Valley making it difficult for small companies to assert their patents against infringement. However, we are determined to see this through until the very end. The defendants, Apple, Verizon, AT&T, Twitter and Amazon are working together and will do whatever they can to drag this process out. We want everyone to know we are not going away. We will continue this fight until we reach a settlement, sell the Company or have our day in court. Eventually the defendants will have to deal with us and our patents will prevail. Patience is a virtue About Voip-Pal.com Inc. Voip-Pal.Com, Inc. (Voip-Pal) is a publicly traded corporation (OTCQB: VPLM ) headquartered in Bellevue, Washington. The Company owns a portfolio of patents relating to Voice-over-Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology that it is currently looking to monetize. Any forecast of future financial performance is a "forward looking statement" under securities laws. Such statements are included to allow potential investors the opportunity to understand managements beliefs and opinions with respect to the future so that they may use such beliefs and opinions as one factor among many in evaluating an investment. Corporate Website: www.voip-pal.com IR inquiries: [email protected] IR Contact: Rich Inza (954) 495-4600 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Navigant Research Report Finds US Smart Home Market Will Create New Revenue Streams and Reduce the Carbon Footprint within the Built Environment A new report from Navigant Research explores how smart home developments can demonstrate the potential for innovation in the built environment. The impacts of technology disruption and digital transformation on the energy industry are rewriting the rules for how energy is generated and used. With residential primary energy consumption representing 11% of US energy consumption today, the smart home is an important part of the story. Click to tweet: According to a new report from @NavigantRSRCH, the smart home will create new revenue streams for technology and service providers, drive efficiency and convenience for homeowners, and help address climate change goals by reducing the carbon footprint within the built environment. "Powered by analytics and real-time automation, the smart home is quickly emerging as a dynamic asset for orchestrating how power is generated and used through automated devices and systems," says Casey Talon, research director with Navigant Research. "The orchestration of major energy-consuming end uses such as air conditioning and hot water heating alongside distributed energy resources (DER) like solar, storage, and energy efficiency measures will maximize the value of a smart home in the Energy Cloud by offering demand flexibility into the grid." To fully realize the potential of the smart home in the Energy Cloud, Navigant Research recommends architects, designers, and developers leverage building information modeling (BIM). OEMs must focus on amplifying their solutions with digital capabilities, while service providers should exlore partnerships with digital technology and OEMs. Electric utilities are advised to develop partnerships for a stake in the smart home market. The report, New Residential Construction in the US Demonstrates Smart Home Potential in the Energy Cloud, discusses how new smart home developments can demonstrate the potential for innovation in the built environment. The study examines the opportunity for a new kind of solution provider, an orchestrator, that will utilize IoT, automation, and DER to aggregate homes as a system for energy optimization. The report presents holistic smart home approaches to energy management that can bring even greater climate change impacts. An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the Navigant Research website. About Navigant Research Navigant Research, the dedicated research arm of Navigant, provides market research and benchmarking services for rapidly changing and often highly regulated industries. In the energy sector, Navigant Research focuses on in-depth analysis and reporting about global clean technology markets. The team's research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of clean, intelligent, mobile, and distributed energy. Additional information about Navigant Research can be found at www.navigantresearch.com. About Navigant Navigant Consulting, Inc. is a specialized, global professional services firm that helps clients take control of their future. Navigant's professionals apply deep industry knowledge, substantive technical expertise, and an enterprising approach to help clients build, manage and/or protect their business interests. With a focus on markets and clients facing transformational change and significant regulatory or legal pressures, the Firm primarily serves clients in the healthcare, energy and financial services industries. Across a range of advisory, consulting, outsourcing, and technology/analytics services, Navigant's practitioners bring sharp insight that pinpoints opportunities and delivers powerful results. More information about Navigant can be found at navigant.com. * The information contained in this press release concerning the report, New Residential Construction in the US Demonstrates Smart Home Potential in the Energy Cloud, is a summary and reflects Navigant Research's current expectations based on market data and trend analysis. Market predictions and expectations are inherently uncertain and actual results may differ materially from those contained in this press release or the report. Please refer to the full report for a complete understanding of the assumptions underlying the report's conclusions and the methodologies used to create the report. Neither Navigant Research nor Navigant undertakes any obligation to update any of the information contained in this press release or the report. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005083/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Codewise Joins World Economic Forum's Partnering Against Corruption Initiative LONDON and PALO ALTO, Calif., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Codewise, the industry's first provider of AI-powered online ad measurement and management solutions for digital marketers, recognized by the Financial Times as one of Europe's fastest-growing companies, today announced that it joined the World Economic Forum's Partnering Against Corruption Initiative (PACI) as a signatory. Launched in 2004, PACI serves as the principal CEO-led platform in the global anti-corruption arena, building on the pillars of public-private cooperation, responsible leadership and technological advances. With approximately 90 signatories from different sectors across the globe, PACI serves as the leading business voice on anti-corruption and transparency. It is one of the World Economic Forum's strongest cross-industry collaborative efforts that are creating a highly visible, agenda-setting platform by working with business leaders, international organizations and governments to address corruption, transparency and emerging-market risks. PACI signatories include some of the world's most prominent companies and organizations, such as Google, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Citigroup, Deloitte, KPMG, EY, Microsoft, Dell Technologies and others. "We are very excited to have Codewise join the PACI Community," sad Mr. Pedro G. Gomez Pensado, Head of PACI. "Codewise has already demonstrated their commitment and leadership to drive integrity in a complex and ever-evolving industry. We are looking forward to deepening our engagement with this innovative and dynamic company." "It's a great honor for Codewise to join one of the foremost international organizations that lead the fight against corruption around the world," said Dr. John Malatesta, Executive Chairman and CEO of Codewise. "Digital corruption and ad fraud are massive issues that affect multiple segments of the global economy, such as the Internet and Media industries, and largest advertisers. Tens of billions of dollars are stolen by digital fraudsters every year worldwide. In its ugliest forms digital fraud harms the democratic process through election manipulation. From the day of its foundation, our company has made defeating fraud and corruption in the Digital space one of its primary missions. Over the years, we have built advanced ad fraud detection technologies, deployed strict compliance practices and accumulated unique subject matter expertise, which we are happy to share with the companies and public organizations striving to put an end to this ugly phenomenon. Above all, we are excited to join forces with like-minded global leaders at PACI who are pursuing the same goal." About the World Economic Forum The World Economic Forum is an independent international organization committed to improving the state of the world by engaging business, political, academic and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. Incorporated as a not-for-profit foundation in 1971 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the Forum is tied to no political, partisan or national interests. About Codewise Founded in 2011, Codewise is the industry's first provider of AI-powered online ad measurement and management solutions for digital marketers. In 2017, 2018 and 2019, the Financial Times, Statista and Deloitte recognized Codewise as one of Europe's fastest-growing technology companies. Codewise's solutions help thousands of businesses in 190 countries track, measure and optimize billions of dollars of advertising spending, boosting their efficiency and ROI. Codewise is currently tracking more than $2.5 billion of digital ad spending for some of the world's largest brands and ad agencies, including $400 million on Facebook. Learn more at www.codewise.com. PR contact: [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/codewise-joins-world-economic-forums-partnering-against-corruption-initiative-300856896.html SOURCE Codewise [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] By Jon Dunbar Not many people here know the Freemasons have a lodge in Seoul. And that may be just how a secret society wants it. However, , opened exactly 110 years ago today, doesn't shy away from the greater community when it comes to making a difference. Lodge Han Yang is planning a in support of Haesimwon Orphanage Seoul this Friday at . Performers include Jay and Yoomi, The Jazzda Brothers, Krishnapelli & Friends, JangJak Groove and DJ Big Easy. On May 29, 1909, that same lodge was opened and consecrated somewhere in Jeong-dong, an area in central Seoul known for its foreign legations. It has seen a lot of turbulence throughout its history. Not much is known about its early years. What is remembered was published in 1953 in the Grand Lodge of Scotland Yearbook, and further updates were prepared in 1995 and 2005. We know it started small, with membership of around 30 for the first few years, composed mostly of foreign merchants, missionaries and miners. The imperial Japanese government forbid all its subjects, including Koreans, from joining secret societies. However, it's likely Koreans became Freemasons in other countries beyond the reach of Japan. A fire damaged the lodge's original meeting place, destroying records and the original charter. The Japanese authorities posed an ever-present threat to meetings and lodge property throughout the occupation, and the lodge closed sometime between 1940 and the expulsion of foreigners from Allied nations shortly after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. After liberation, Freemasons among the U.S. occupying forces started their own Han Yang Masonic Club, and as earlier members returned, plans were made to reopen Lodge Han Yang. It opened its doors a third time in June 1946 with the permission of the U.S. military government, returning to its original venue which had been used by the military. The lodge once again closed with the outbreak of the 1950-53 Korean War. Masonic clubs opened around Korea in locations including Busan, Daegu and at Gimpo Airport. Members supported Korea's war-ravaged civilian population, sponsoring a hospital for children and an orphanage and arranging shipments of powdered milk. Following the Armistice when civilian Freemasons returned to Seoul, they found military personnel had held active Mason events. Lodge Han Yang reopened on June 30, 1954, with a new copy of the charter sent from the Grand Lodge of Scotland. This meeting was held in a Quonset hut with 146 in attendance. They moved back to their original meeting place in early 1955 after the U.S. Army relinquished it. On April 24, 1957, the lodge awarded the Degree of Master Mason to its first Korean national. More followed, and it also claims Prince Yi Gu (1931-2005) as a member, initiated in 1966. In the 1980s the lodge worked toward increasing Korean involvement, hoping meetings could one day be held in the local language. "Brothers hailing from Australia, Canada, France, the U.S., Finland, the U.K., Spain, Bulgaria, Germany, the Philippines, Nigeria and of course Korea, added their own unique flair, interpretation and pronunciation to the mix, providing a wonderful environment where harmony truly ruled," an affiliate member wrote in July 2007 in a document titled "One Hundred Years of Freemasonry in Korea." Today, Lodge Han Yang remains closely tied to the community. Its oldest living member joined in 1960, and its oldest in-country member has been around since 1973. It has seen about 700 members over the past 60 years. Members have supported various other charities, including helping an orphanage in Vietnam, building a school playground in Tibet and supporting various local Scouting projects. The charity event for Haesimwon Orphanage starts at 8:30 p.m. and entrance costs 10,000 won. Visit or contact lodgehanyang@gmail.com for more information. [May 28, 2019] REVOLVE Launches Initial Public Offering Revolve Group, LLC (to be renamed Revolve Group, Inc., "REVOLVE") today announced that it has commenced an initial public offering of 11,764,706 shares of its Class A common stock ("Class A Common Stock") comprised of 2,941,176 shares of Class A Common Stock offered by REVOLVE and 8,823,530 shares of Class A Common Stock offered by certain stockholders. The underwriters also have an option for 30 days to purchase up to an additional 1,764,705 shares of Class A Common Stock at the initial public offering price from REVOLVE and the selling stockholders. The initial public offering price is currently estimated to be between $16 and $18 per share. REVOLVE's Class A Common Stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE under the ticker symbol "RVLV." Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC will act as lead joint bookrunning managers for the offering. BofA Merrill Lynch will also act as joint bookrunning manager for the offerin. Barclays Capital Inc. and Jefferies LLC will act as bookrunning managers for this offering, and Cowen and Company, LLC, Guggenheim Securities, LLC, Raymond James & Associates, Inc. and William Blair & Company, L.L.C. will act as co-managers for this offering. The offering will be made only by means of a prospectus. Copies of the preliminary prospectus relating to this offering, when available, may be obtained from Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, Attention: Prospectus Department, 180 Varick Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10014, or by telephone at 1-866-718-1649; or Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, Attention: Prospectus Department, Eleven Madison Avenue, 3rd floor, New York, NY 10010, by telephone at 1-800-221-1037, or by email at [email protected]. A registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission but has not yet become effective. These securities may not be sold nor may offers to buy be accepted prior to the time the registration statement becomes effective. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005314/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Squirrel Compliancy Solutions Awarded Contract to Provide CCRI Support by the US Army's Military Entrance Process Command (MEPCOM) RALEIGH, N.C., May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Squirrel Compliancy Solutions, a provider of network infrastructure security management, is announcing the United States Army's Military Entrance Process Command (MEPCOM) awarded a contract to Squirrel for their Automated Network Compliancy for DISA STIGs (ANCDS). MEPCOM is using Squirrel's ANCDS solution to gain continuous monitoring and enforcement of their security posture and vulnerability risk awareness. ANCDS supports nine DISA STIGs audits and updates the audits as DISA revises or releases new STIGs. MEPCOM enterprise network provides services to every branch of the United States military. Squirrel's ANCDS solution dynamically adjusts to the unique configuration of each remote site. ANCDS was able to identify vulnerabilities previously undetected by their previous solution, automated the remediation process, reduced their risk exposure, and passed their subsequent Command Cyber Readiness Inspections (CCRI). Squirrel's Systems Engineer, Gilbert Bollinger notes, "MEPCOM struggled with completing a full audit of their network within a year due o the personnel hours and manual efforts required. After installing Squirrel's ANCDS, we brought the time it takes to complete an audit down to 25 minutes. They can start the process and get a cup of coffee while it runs in the background. Now, they have a clear view into their security posture on a daily basis. MEPCOM saw an immediate return on their investment within the first month of using ANCDS." About Squirrel Compliancy Solutions Squirrel Compliancy Solutions focuses on automating and enforcing regulatory compliance standards. Squirrel's robust capabilities help its customers reduce their risk profile by identifying vulnerabilities and prioritizing them based on the compliance standard's scoring standards. Squirrel's Automated Network Compliance (ANC) solution also allows customers to correct their vulnerabilities using the built-in automated remediation tool giving them more time to focus on their mission or business priorities. Know your network better than your adversaries with Squirrel Compliancy Solutions. Media contact: Gilbert Bollinger [email protected] 1-833-477-8477 www.squirrelcompliancysolutions.com View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/squirrel-compliancy-solutions-awarded-contract-to-provide-ccri-support-by-the-us-armys-military-entrance-process-command-mepcom-300856829.html SOURCE Squirrel Compliancy Solutions [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Paycor to Host Two-Day "BUILD" Web Summit CINCINNATI, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Human Capital Management (HCM) company Paycor today announced it will be hosting its tri-annual Web Summit with a focus on building a company no one wants to leave. This free online webinar series will take place June 4-5, 2019 and will teach human resources (HR) and business leaders how to build a culture that can be a powerful competitive advantage in a tight job market when turnover is high and unemployment is at historic lows. According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of April 2019, the unemployment rate is at 3.6%, which is the lowest it has been since 1969 . Consequently, its more difficult than ever to find the right talent, so HR teams and department managers need to do everything they can to retain their best people. Paycors BUILD Web Summit will provide the actionable insights HR and business leaders need to drive retention and reduce turnover. Highlights of the two-day event include: The keynote presentation titled, Why Employees Leave, led by Jennifer McClure, CEO of Unbridled Talent and DisruptHR, will discuss why employees quit their jobs, as well as why the top reasons for quitting - company culture, the work environment, purpose, direction and managers - are under leaderships control. In addition, McClure will share how HR leaders can step into and embrace the responsibility to create and nurture workplace environments that attract, recruit and retain top talent to achieve an organizations strategic goals and objectives. The summit will include a total of eight sessions led by industry experts that discuss how to BUILD an organization tat upholds competitive benefits, talent, culture and more, to ensure employee retention. The virtual event will also give HR professionals the opportunity to earn HRCI and SHRM continuing education credits - at no additional cost. For more information on which sessions offer continuing education credits, please visit the Paycor Web Summit website: https://go.paycor.com/Web-Summit.html Schedule at-a-Glance: Day 1: Tuesday, June 4, 2019 When: 10:00 - 10:30 a.m. ET What: BUILD a Compelling Benefits Package Who: Andrea Toben, Total Rewards and Wellbeing Manager, Paycor When: 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. ET What: Keynote Session: Why Employees Leave Who: Jennifer McClure, CEO, Unbridled Talent LLC and DisruptHR LLC When: 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. ET What: BUILD a Culture of Feedback Who: Karen Crone, CHRO, Paycor When: 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. ET What: BUILD a Remote Workplace Who: Sarah Laboranti, Consultant, Dynamic Corporate Solutions, Inc. Day 2: Wednesday, June 5, 2019 When: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. ET What: BUILD a Competitive Compensation Plan Who: Christine Ippolito, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, Principal, Compass Workforce Solutions When: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. ET What: BUILD a Burnout-Resistant Culture Who: Eugene Partridge, Director of Purchasing, Paycor When: 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. ET What: BUILD a Compliant Interview Process Who: Katharine Weber, Principal, Jackson Lewis P.C. When: 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. ET What: BUILD an Intern Program to Scout New Talent Who: Shayna Royal, College Recruiting Program Manager, Paycor To register for the Web Summit, visit: https://go.paycor.com/Web-Summit.html Supporting Resources Paycor Web Summit Paycor Website Paycor Products Paycor Latest News Join the Conversation Join us on LinkedIn About Paycor More than 30,000 medium and small businesses nationwide trust Paycor to help them engage, manage and develop their people. Paycor is known for delivering the best unified HCM platform for the SMB market, but what makes us legendary is the total client experience we provide, from responsive service and user-friendly design to expert partnership and thought leadership. Our unique combination of technology and expertise helps clients streamline every aspect of people management so they can focus on what they know besttheir business and their mission. To learn how Paycor can help you make a difference, visit www.paycor.com . FOR MORE INFORMATION Carly Graman [email protected] (513) 310-1007 MEDIA CONTACT Marta Debski Offleash for Paycor (810) 956-4501 [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] EY Announces Eric Berry of TripleLift Entrepreneur Of The Year 2019 New York Award Finalist NEW YORK, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TripleLift, the worlds largest native advertising platform, today announced its CEO and co-founder, Eric Berry was named as a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2019 New York Awards. Widely considered one of the most prestigious business awards programs in the U.S., the program recognizes entrepreneurs and leaders of high-growth companies who are excelling in areas such as innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities, while also transforming our world. Berry was selected as a finalist by a panel of independent judges. Award winners will be announced at a special gala event on June 20, 2019, at the Marriott Marquis. Founded in 2012, TripleLift is committed to integrating advertising seamlessly into content, creating a positive consumer experience. Over the past year, the company has launched new products to further support that mission including new in-content over-the-top (OTT) ad formats and ContentDial . Between 2012 and 2017, the company had grown at least 3x each year, and in 2018, the company saw a 2x growth as it neared $100 million in revenue, earning it a position on the Crains New York 2018 Fast 50 list . As TripleLift continues to grow globally, earlier this year the company opened an office in Sydney, Australia to oversee its growing APAC business . Inclusion on this list of finalists is a huge honor for me and TripleLift, said Berry. We pride ourselves on being trendspotters and providing forward-thinking solutions to embracing those trends. 2019 will continue to be a year f growth and innovation for TripleLift as we continue to empower advertisers and content creators to offer integrated ads that provide consumers with non-disruptive experiences. Now in its 33rd year, the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year has expanded to recognize business leaders in more than 145 cities and more than 60 countries throughout the world. Regional award winners are eligible for consideration for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National competition. Award winners in several national categories, as well as the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner, will be announced at the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards gala in Palm Springs, California, on November 16, 2019. The awards are the culminating event of the Strategic Growth Forum, the nations most prestigious gathering of high-growth, market-leading companies. To see the full list of 2019 New York regional finalists, visit: https://www.ey.com/en_us/entrepreneur-of-the-year/new-york/finalists . Sponsors Founded and produced by Ernst & Young LLP, the Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards are nationally sponsored by SAP America and the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. In New York, sponsors also include Marsh & McLennan, Empire Valuation Consultants, Kirkland & Ellis, SolomonEdwardsGroup and DLA Piper. About TripleLift TripleLift is the technology company that invents, powers and scales ads that earn consumer attention. Having set the standard for respectful advertising, the company leverages its dynamic templating and computer vision technologies to flawlessly deliver and scale in-feed native ads, branded content experiences and programmatic OTT brand integrations that match the look and feel of the content that is being consumed. TripleLift is reshaping the digital advertising landscape with consumer-centric advertising that drives results for advertisers and unlocks new revenue streams for digital media publishers, app developers and television networks. Headquartered in New York City, TripleLift has offices across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. For more information about TripleLift, please visit triplelift.com . About Entrepreneur Of The Year Entrepreneur Of The Year, founded by EY, is the worlds most prestigious business awards program for entrepreneurs. The program makes a difference through the way it encourages entrepreneurial activity among those with potential and recognizes the contribution of people who inspire others with their vision, leadership and achievement. As the first and only truly global awards program of its kind, Entrepreneur Of The Year celebrates those who are building and leading successful, growing and dynamic businesses, recognizing them through regional, national and global awards programs in more than 145 cities and more than 60 countries. ey.com/eoy About EYs Growth Markets Network EYs worldwide Growth Markets Network is dedicated to serving the changing needs of high-growth companies. For more than 30 years, weve helped many of the worlds most dynamic and ambitious companies grow into market leaders. Whether working with international mid-cap companies or early stage, venture-backed businesses, our professionals draw upon their extensive experience, insight and global resources to help your business succeed. For more information, please visit us at ey.com/gm or follow news on Twitter @EY_Growth. About EY EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation is available via ey.com/privacy. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com. This news release has been issued by Ernst & Young LLP, a member of the global EY organization that provides services to clients in the US. For more information, please visit ey.com . Media Contact Lacy Talton Blast PR on behalf of TripleLift [email protected] 252-467-5220 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] MightyHive's Sasha Schmitz Recognized in Ad Age's Women to Watch Europe SAN FRANCISCO, May 28, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MightyHive, the leading media consultancy, today announced that Sasha Schmitz, managing director for the EMEA region, has been named an Ad Age Woman to Watch Europe 2019. The prestigious list honors groundbreakers, forward thinkers and rainmakers in the marketing and advertising realm who are blazing trails with new solutions, standout creative work and business-building initiatives. Schmitz is responsible for scaling the companys business across Europe. In just two years, she grew the MightyHive EMEA team from three women in a co-working space in London to a 30-person team, with offices in London, Stockholm, Paris and Milan with more offices in Europe and the Middle East to come. Under her leadership, MightyHives European revenue grew by triple-digit percentages in 2018, while maintaining a 100 percent retention rate across the entire region. Schmitz has been instrumental in developing partnerships in Europe that enable better connections between media, creative and technology, resulting in better experiences for advertisers and consumers. Her programmatic expertise and deep understanding of client management have been key in securing MightyHives marquee European clients, who still remain on their roster today. In 2019, Schmitz will continue to build the relationship between creative agency MediaMonks and MightyHive following the companys 2018 merger with Sir Martin Sorrells S4 Cpital, informing how the companies under the S4 Capital umbrella align offerings to better benefit clients. Having seen Sasha in action over the past few months, I am certain that Ad Age made the right decision, said Sir Martin Sorrell, Executive Chairman of S4 Capital. I look forward to seeing S4 Capital develop more talent like Sasha to lead the industry into the new era. Sasha is an excellent example of a new breed of digital marketers, savvy across the board in technology, media and general business acumen. We made a bet on her talent and ambition to lead our entry into Europe, and the results have exceeded our expectations, said MightyHive CEO Pete Kim. Her leadership of the European region has been critical for our overall business growth. We are thrilled that one of our most valued leaders is receiving this well-deserved recognition. Schmitz added, I am honored to be recognized by Ad Age, alongside many other outstanding women. Leadership to me is about building an inclusive culture and uniting teams across different cultural backgrounds, all while scaling the companys business. Throughout the journey, I feel it has been critical to empower teams with strategic clarity and a collaborative structure to develop their strengths and equip them with the confidence to nurture business relationships of their own. To see the full list of Ad Age Women to Watch Europe 2019 honorees, please click here . About MightyHive MightyHive is a new breed of media consultancy that partners with global brands and agencies seeking transformative marketing results in a time of massive disruption and opportunity. Recognized as the global leader in advanced marketing and advertising technologies, MightyHive provides consulting and services in the areas of media operations and training, data strategy and analytics. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, with offices in Auckland, London, Melbourne, New York, Singapore, Stockholm, Sydney, Tokyo, Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal. In 2018, MightyHive merged with S4 Capital plc (SFOR.L), a new age/new era digital advertising and marketing services company established by Sir Martin Sorrell. Contact Cassady Nordeen Blast PR for MightyHive [email protected] 718-644-0273 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ce5879db-88aa-4e58-a42d-d82e8535520a [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] The IoT Community - Internet of Things Community Announces ConnectedYou has Joined its Elite IoT Ecosystem as a Silver Corporate Member The IoT Community (Internet of Things Community, the world's largest community of CxOs and IoT professionals and practitioners, announces ConnectedYou has joined the IoT Community's ecosystem of elite IoT thought leaders as a Silver level Corporate Member. A leading independent digital marketplace of IoT connectivity, ConnectedYou offers unique and unified IoT connectivity orchestration services to enterprises globally. Together both organizations will collaborate to address the wide variety of barriers, inhibitors, and technical and operational issues that accompany the Devices, Connectivity, Cloud Services and Value added Services spectrum's of IoT. Additionally, Parag Mittal, Co-Founder and CEO, will join the IoT Community's recently announced and formed Mobility and Connectivity in IoT Center of Excellence where he will be leading the Ecosystem pillar of excellence, Chaired by Rahul C Vijay, Head of Global Connectivity Uber. Future announcements will be made shortly surrounding this newly formed leadership initiative. "We are thrilled to announce and welcome ConnectedYou to the IoT Community as a Silver member, and are excited to engage with Parag Mittal and his wealth of experience and expertise in the Mobility and Connectivity space. His expertise and thought leadership in the IoT Orchestration space will add tremendous value to our members and the overall IoT market," said Nancy Shemwell, IoT Community COO and Advisory Board Member. "One of the key motivation that drives my personal eagerness to engage with the IoT Community is passion for creating a change through industry best practices. This is especially important in the connectivity sector and the work we at ConnectedYou do will be amplified by the larger industry reach of the IoT Community. I am excited to be part of this journey and keen to work with some wonderful colleagues as we buildbest practices along with standardisation with key industry bodies." said Parag Mittal, CEO & Co-Founder of ConnectedYou. "ConnectedYou has deep insights and will be instrumental in community discussions about enabling key industry players to integrate offerings into a single platform, allowing switching and migration from one provider to another in real time on multiple and flexible business models." said David Hill, Executive Director of the IoT Community. "I am excited to welcome Parag Mittal to the IoT Community MCIoTCoE and look forward to announcing additional members of the IoT Community Center of Excellence program", said Rahul Vijay, Head of Head of Global Connectivity at Uber, IoT Community BoA member, and MCIoTCoE Chair. "Parag brings deep domain expertise and is a trusted and highly respected advocate in the space. Parag has a proven track record in launching global businesses and business turn arounds. His deep expertise and recognition as a leader in digital transformation will be of tremendous value to our industry efforts. Bill Mortimer, Vice President of Strategic Marketing at Spirent and IoT Community Advisory Board Chairman said, "We welcome ConnectedYou to our community; we look forward to their unique experience and perspectives as we work to address the challenges associated with the installation of these complex solutions." IoT Slam Live 2019 Registration Details In-Person Event - Spaces Nearly Fully Allocated: To register for access to the IoT Slam Live event in RTP North Carolina, IoT Practitioners should visit: https://iotslam.com/register (Free Registration now Fully Allocated). Virtual Broadcast: To register for the live and real time global broadcast, visit: https://ibm.com/account/reg/us-en/signup?formid=urx-37423 Collaboration Opportunities IoT solution providers seeking accession to the IoT Community should email [email protected] About IoT Community (Internet of Things Community) The IoT Community is the world's largest CxO community of senior business leaders and IoT practitioners consisting of 23,500+ members. The function is to focus on adoption and application of IoT in commercial environments, overcoming the variety of barriers, inhibitors, and technical and operational issues. For more information about IoT Community, visit http://www.iotcommunity.net. Follow @IoTChannel or hashtag #IoTCommunity. About CY ConnectedYou is an independent IoT Service company offering a unique and unified IoT service to enterprises globally through a single access platform integrated with multiple technology and service providers. ConnectedYou's service is based on 4 pillar approach encompassing Devices, Connectivity, Cloud Services and Value added Services. ConnectedYou enables an ecosystem that allows enterprises to freely choose services and offers from suppliers, enabling the ability to remotely switch suppliers within the ConnectedYou ecosystem. ConnectedYou provides enterprises with a future proof orchestration for all their IoT needs keeping future innovation and improvements in mind. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005435/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Silver Peak Wins Two Network Computing Awards; SD-WAN Vendor of the Year and Network Project of the Year with Mazars Silver Peak, the global SD-WAN leader, delivering the transformational promise of the cloud with a self-driving wide area network, today announced that it has been awarded 'SD-WAN Vendor of the Year' and 'Network Project of the Year' for its business-driven Unity EdgeConnect SD-WAN edge platform and customer deployment with Mazars at the 2019 Network Computing Awards in the UK. This marks the second consecutive year that Silver Peak (News - Alert) has been recognized for its SD-WAN innovation and successful customer deployments. The Network Computing Awards celebrate thebest companies and technology solutions that help to keep networks running effectively, as well as the business-critical applications that run on them. It also recognizes the industry's most innovative and inspirational projects of 2019. Mazars Awarded Network Project of the Year As a top 10 UK accountancy firm with a global footprint, Mazars had run private MPLS circuits from its data center - located at its headquarters in Tower Hill, London - to its 18 UK offices and seven international offices supporting 1,700 employees and 140 partners. When the company opened its international branch sites in Australia, Delhi and New York, Quality of Service (QoS) across its existing MPLS WAN architecture resulted in challenges in connecting its users to cloud-based applications. Since its deployment of the EdgeConnect SD-WAN edge platform, Mazars is now making the most of a hybrid WAN approach. Digital transformation is continuing to have a big impact on businesses today - especially on IT departments - as workloads are becoming increasingly cloud-based for speed and agility. Mazars is now able to fully embrace the cloud, without compromising network or application performance. "Winning these two awards reaffirms our market position as the global SD-WAN leader, enabling our customers to realize the full transformational promise of the cloud," said Kristian Thyregod, vice president, Europe, Middle East and Africa region for Silver Peak. "We are delivering true business value to companies like Mazars by enabling them to gain efficiencies, move with greater agility and realize both hard and soft savings. We are delighted that our work continues to be recognized, and the fact that the awards were voted on by the industry and Network Computing readers is the icing on the cake." About Silver Peak Silver Peak, the global SD-WAN leader, delivers the transformational promise of the cloud with a business-first networking model. The Unity EdgeConnect self-driving wide area network platform liberates enterprises from conventional WAN approaches to transform the network from a constraint to a business accelerant. Thousands of globally distributed enterprises have deployed Silver Peak WAN solutions across 100 countries. Learn more at silver-peak.com. 2019 Silver Peak Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Silver Peak, the Silver Peak logo, and all Silver Peak product names, logos, and brands are trademarks or registered trademarks of Silver Peak Systems, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. All other product names, logos, and brands are property of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005022/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] ChainUP with HiCoin, Node Capital, Jinse Finance, BiKi and other "Node Family" members attended the "Consensus 2019" in New York NEW YORK, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- New York time, May 13th to 15th, the Consensus 2019 Conference, the world's largest and most influential Blockchain summit was hosted by world-renowned blockchain media CoinDesk in New York. ChainUP, a world leading blockchain technology service provider, HiCoin, a branded blockchain wallet solution provider along with other members of Node Family, such as Node Capital, Jinse Finance, and BiKi, attended the consensus conference as one of the exhibitors. Consensus 2019 Conference is an industry event for all practitioners of the global blockchain ecosystem. It brings together large-scale corporate representatives, developers, entrepreneurs and investors in the encryption field, such as Wall Street financial giants, well-known investment institutions, blockchain star startups, well-known academic research institutions and major national regulatory agencies. The well-known people and industry experts gathered for the fifth time, through a three-day intensive agenda, to develop deep dialogues and discussions on the development of blockchan applications and cases, blockchain technology development, compliance, how to complete a global layout on the encrypted world economic map and other topics. As early as last November, ChainUP was invited as a leader in China's blockchain technology to attend Consensus to demonstrate the technical strength and excellent solutions of ChainUP, and to share ChainUP's exploration experience in the blockchain field. Among them, Kris, the founder of HiCoin Wallet, also participated in the round table discussion on "Differences and Comparisons between China and the US Blockchain Ecosystem" in the BBS investment special session of Consensus Invest, and put forward his views on the future market of the wallet. In the view of ChainUP after participating in the New York Consensus Conference, the US blockchain market is globally leading in terms of academic research, project quality, regulatory policies, and transaction volume. The team of ChainUP is very familiar with the US market, however ChainUP focuses on communicating with the world's blockchain practitioners and arranging global markets instead of regarding the consensus conference as an opportunity to know about US market. ChainUP is a world-leading Blockchain technology service provider which has obtained several-round investment from a number of top institutions in the industry, including Morningside Venture Capital, Joy Capital, Node Capital, Albatross Venture capital and Taoshi Capital. It provides blockchain technology solutions such as wallet service system, digital asset trading system, AUROR exchange situational awareness system and public & alliance chain. Currently, it has served more than 150 exchange customers around the world, and its brand HiCoin has also served more than 50 wallet customers around the world, with users throughout South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Southeast Asia, West Asia and North America. In the near future, it will further promote the global 'super node' partner program to seek global partners to develop overseas markets. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chainup-with-hicoin-node-capital-jinse-finance-biki-and-other-node-family-members-attended-the-consensus-2019-in-new-york-300857140.html SOURCE ChainUP [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Rene Caovilla, Italian Premiere Footwear Brand, Sweeps into SECOO to Reshapes China's Luxury Market BEIJING, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Last month marked the arrival of Rene Caovilla at SECOO, the largest premium lifestyle platform in Asia. Rene Caovilla, known as the "The King of Banquet Shoes", creates the best enduring fashion products with classic craftsmanship and design. The brand has a great reputation for the design of "jewelry shoes" by using elements such as jewelry, hollow-out and lace. Each shoe is a work of luxury and nobility and complements the elegance and charm of the wearer with graceful and smooth silhouette lines. This time, Rene Caovilla collaborates with SECOO to bring the limited edition Orange Classic Cleo Sandal 40, which are sold exclusively in SECOO. Inherit traditional ideas to set off new fashion trends Rene Caovilla, a high-end shoe brand originating in Italy, was founded in 1929. Over the past 90 years, they have inherited the brand's passion and persistence for innovation, and displayed magnificent Italian style and excellent craftsmanship. The colorful SWAROVSKI crystals with the silver lining at the bottom of the shoes has become a legendary symbol of the brand. When females lift their legs or raise their feet to reveal the soles, they will see the luxurious diamond decorated on the soles, which makes people wearing Rene Caovilla feel like a princess in a fairy tale. As a "red carpet shoe", all kinds of female stars are loyal fans of the brand. Forge an honorable experience to realize win-win business development Rene Caovilla has a reputation for "The King of Banquet Shoes", and is known to create one of a kind aesthetic experience for high-end consumers. As we come together this time, we embrace kindred spirit in the interpretation of premium lifestyle and jointly celebrate the glory of the luxury world. SECOO brings in Rene Caovilla this time as a trailblazer in integrating the premium products and lifestyle of party shoes into luxury e-commerce platforms. At the same time, SECOO capitalizes on its exceptional inight into luxury brand identity, personalized scenario-based purchasing experience and global fashion sense to precisely capture and satisfy user demand and convey the core valueGive you the most gorgeous beauty of the worldto more high-end consumers. As Edoardo Caovilla, COO and Creative Director of Rene Caovilla, said: "SECOO provides us with wide space to seek cooperation and leverage the clout and multi-dimensional advantages of its platform to enable closer communications and interaction between us and consumers from across the world. It also draws the attention of celebrities and social elites pursuing high-quality life to the essential craftsmanship that sustains a brand for many years. I'm looking forward to advancing our partnership with SECOO to jointly create a business legend of high-end fashion." Founded in 2008, SECOO now serves 27 million high-end consumers and offers over 400 thousand premium products and services sourced from over 3,800 famous domestic and international brands across a wide selection of clothes & accessories, jewelry, home appliances and artworks. With regard to business collaboration, SECOO works on two business modelsauthorized distribution and the direct purchasing model B2B2Cto meet established national and industry authentication standards, ensuring 100% authenticity of every product offered on our platform as an exemplary role model and safeguarding trust guarantee for brands and consumers. Moreover, years of dedication to building an integrated sales and service system now lands SECOO on firm ground to collaborate with brands, opening up an exceptional opportunity to move luxury products online and gain handsome profits from the momentum. The introduction of Rene Caovilla is also an important step in SECOO's efforts to expand into high-end lifestyle services. It also allows for a wider range of brand categories and cooperation methods, facilitating more diversified and better-defined development. As Mr. Richard Rixue Li, founder and CEO of SECOO, said, "Luxury brands from all over the world have now made inroads into China, and Chinese people's spending power is infiltrating into the world as well. SECOO aspires to become the most dedicated high-end luxury product and service enterprise with global visions. The purpose of this collaboration with Rene Caovilla is to let all corners of the world know more about Rene Caovilla. In the future, SECOO will engage more brands of this kind on our platform, and secure three upgrades, namely technology, supply chain and organization upgrade with a particular focus on the 'small social media + big e-commerce' strategy, to engage with consumers through all-encompassing e-commerce channels in the spirit of giving you the most gorgeous beauty of the world." Since the release of the strategic conception "Give you the most gorgeous beauty of the world", SECOO is now working with upscale brands, avant-garde designers and professional buyers to foster a larger resource circle, with a view to securing strategic value under the principle of win-win development. From purchasing worldwide to selling worldwide, SECOO's endeavor is not only opening up a new opportunity for more brands to engage with consumers worldwide, but also reshaping the development path of China's fashion industry. Fundamentally, SECOO aspires to pave the way for the building of a prominent fashion empire in China. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rene-caovilla-italian-premiere-footwear-brand-sweeps-into-secoo-to-reshapes-chinas-luxury-market-300857288.html SOURCE Secoo Group [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Discover Global Network joins forces with Sage to expand in the UK and Ireland Discover Global Network, the payments brand of Discover, has signed an agreement with Sage, a market leader in cloud business management solutions, that provides cardholders more options to pay at key hospitality and retail merchants throughout the UK and Ireland. The agreement with Sage Pay gives Discover Global Network cardholders, which includes Discover, Diners Club and affiliate network cardholders, more options to pay for purchases whether it's in-store or online. Merchants will now be able to provide additional payment options and reach a wider base of customers. While traveling internationally, 48 percent of Discover cardholders* changed their merchant or spend behavior if their payment type was not accepted.1 "Discover Global Network cardholders have spent more over the past year at merchants in the United Kingdom and Ireland and we expect to see that continue," said Amy Parsons (News - Alert), senior vice president of global acceptance at Discover. "Working with companies such as Sage Pay allows us to continue increasing the number of places where our cardholders are able to shop and use their card." "We are constantly looking for ways to improve our servce to our customers and their customers," said Seamus Smith, executive vice president payments and banking at Sage. "Adding Diners Club International, Discover and affiliate cards acceptance to our Sage Pay payments portfolio will give our customers greater choice and allow partners to expand their international reach. We are delighted be partnering with the Discover Global Network team." Discover Global Network has over 44 million merchant acceptance locations and 2 million ATM and cash access locations around the world. Discover Global Network includes Discover, Diners Club International, PULSE and affiliated networks. About Discover Discover Financial Services (NYSE: DFS) is a direct banking and payment services company with one of the most recognized brands in U.S. financial services. Since its inception in 1986, the company has become one of the largest card issuers in the United States. The company issues the Discover card, America's cash rewards pioneer, and offers private student loans, personal loans, home equity loans, checking and savings accounts and certificates of deposit through its direct banking business. It operates the Discover Global Network comprised of Discover Network, with millions of merchant and cash access locations; PULSE, one of the nation's leading ATM/debit networks; and Diners Club International, a global payments network with acceptance around the world. For more information, visit www.discover.com/company. *Discover cardholders who have travelled internationally in the past 18 months prior to April 2018 1 C+R Research Study of 3,000 Discover Cardholders, April, 2018, commissioned by DFS Services LLC View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005068/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] By Kyung Lee As the tally of empty spaces increases along Gyeongnidan-gil in Seoul's foreign neighborhood Itaewon, existing small businesses refuse to hang up their gloves in a fight to re-nurture the charms that once enlivened the neighborhood's diverse appeal. By employing their own grassroots methods, restaurateurs located in alleyways diverging from the main street say it is imperative they maintain close-knit relationships with other struggling owners while potential customers continue to overlook what Gyeongnidan-gil still has to offer. "We obviously welcome and build connections with new businesses," said Anna Kim, co-owner of the nearly two-year-old brunch cafe . "If there are establishments nearby that are successful, we would like to share with them insights that can attract a larger inflow of customers." Between the bars, cafes, boutiques and other shops that operate in branching Hoenamu-ro, Kim adds that a nearby realtor helps them coordinate regular group meetings through KakaoTalk to organize flea markets and other cultural spaces for its incoming visitors events Kim aims to be more active in participating in the near future. Utilizing homey atmospheres to deliver authentic cuisine to its customers is another key ingredient restaurants like Summer Lane and nearby brunch cafe Sunday Arvo lean on, but both establishments say they intend to emphasize their brands as a reminder to the public that Gyeongnidan-gil remains open for business. "Since opening last September, we've seen diners waiting in long queues on the weekends, and we feel grateful for that," said Summer Park, co-owner of . "The overall sentiment through media is that Gyeongnidan-gil is becoming even less popular, but we feel we should inject new life into this place by encouraging nearby businesses to do well." Following a TV documentary that covered the effects of gentrification in Gyeongnidan-gil on KBS late last year, Kim says a friend phoned her with concerns about Summer Lane. "We're doing fine," she recalled telling her friend. "I hope viewers don't think the whole area is failing, because the charms still exist." Despite having received extensive coverage on its downfall through other outlets for some time including through interviews with celebrity restaurateur Hong Seok-cheon Gyeongnidan-gil remains excluded from government initiatives that could empower local residents and proprietors with various civic participation methods to prevent their communities from going belly-up. And while 71 locations in Seoul have so far qualified to receive grants of up to 140 million won to support urban regeneration projects, education seminars and cultural programs through the Seoul Metropolitan Government since 2016, this area has received no such help. "At this time, we have no such projects in place targeting that area for revitalization because stakeholders [in Gyeongnidan-gil] are taking action upon themselves," said Kang Myeong-jun, a policy team manager at the Seoul City Urban Renewal Support Center. [May 28, 2019] Eversheds Sutherland Adds Sarah Paul, Former Assistant US Attorney for the Southern District of New York Eversheds Sutherland is pleased to announce that Sarah Paul has joined the Litigation Practice Group as a partner in the New York office. Ms. Paul was most recently an Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York in the Criminal Division. "Sarah's white collar and criminal tax law acumen will further bridge our Litigation and Tax groups and provide additional opportunities for cross-practice collaboration," said Mark D. Wasserman, Co-CEO of Eversheds Sutherland. "She will bring tremendous value to our clients, particularly given her experience and reputation in the market." In her previous position, which she held for nearly a decade, Ms. Paul investigated and prosecuted sophisticated financial crimes, including wire fraud, bank fraud, cybercrime, international money laundering, securities fraud, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act violations, healthcare fraud and Bank Secrecy Act violations. She also litigated substantial asset forfeiture matters and, as the Criminal Division's Tax Coordinator since August 2016, supervised over 100 prosecutors with respect to criminal tax matters, including hundreds of investigations and dozens of publicly charged cases. Ms. Paul also has led many significant cross-border investigations, including an investigation resulting in the first US indictment in connection with the Panama Papers, and an investigation resulting in a $547 million resolution with a Swiss bank and guilty pleas from two Swiss bankers. She was also lead prosecutor in an investigation that resulted in landmark guilty pleas of Cayman Islands investment brokerage and trust companies. "Sarah's prosecutorial accomplishments combined with her cross-border experience and criminal tax prominence will greatly benefit our US and international clients as they navigate investigations and cross-jurisdictional tax and compliancerequirements," said Ronald W. Zdrojeski, Partner and Co-Head of Eversheds Sutherland's Global Litigation Group. "She is highly respected by judges, defense lawyers, and her former colleagues at the Department of Justice, having earned her reputation through outstanding courtroom work as well as tireless preparation." A Distinguished Track Record A seasoned prosecutor, Ms. Paul, conducted 14 jury trials and achieved prominence in the area of criminal tax. For the last two and a half years, she supervised all criminal tax matters in the US Attorney's Office for the Southern District, working closely with the Internal Revenue Service and the Tax Division of the Department of Justice. She also briefed and argued multiple Second Circuit appeals. "Effectively managing cooperation and coordination among law enforcement agencies worldwide in the pursuit of favorable outcomes is vitally important in today's global environment," said Ms. Paul. "The global nature of Eversheds Sutherland's practice combined with its stellar reputation in the areas of white-collar defense, tax controversy and government investigations presents me with an ideal opportunity to drive the next phase of my career. The camaraderie at Eversheds Sutherland, combined with its commitment to client success only adds to that appeal." With more than 100 litigators, Eversheds Sutherland's Litigation Group has tried and argued cases in the US Supreme Court, all 13 circuits of the US Court of Appeals, the Court of Federal Claims, the Tax Court and hundreds of federal district and state trial and appellate courts. Eversheds Sutherland's litigation team represents regional, national and international clients from a broad range of industries, including energy, financial services, securities, insurance, construction, manufacturing, automotive, distribution, education, professional services, data privacy, electronics, technology and defense. About Eversheds Sutherland As a global top 15 law practice, Eversheds Sutherland provides legal services to a global client base ranging from small and mid-sized businesses to the largest multinationals, acting for 73 of the Fortune 100, 66 of the FTSE 100, and 119 of the Fortune 200. With more than 2,800 lawyers, Eversheds Sutherland operates in 67 offices in 34 jurisdictions across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the United States. In addition, a network of more than 200 related law firms, including formalized alliances in Latin America, Asia Pacific and Africa, provide support around the globe. Eversheds Sutherland provides the full range of legal services, including corporate and M&A dispute resolution and litigation; energy and infrastructure; finance; human capital and labor law; intellectual property; real estate and construction; and tax. Eversheds Sutherland comprises two separate legal entities: Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP (headquartered in the UK) and Eversheds Sutherland (US) LLP (headquartered in the US), and their respective controlled, managed, affiliated and member firms. The use of the name Eversheds Sutherland is for description purposes only and does not imply that the member firms or their controlled, managed or affiliated entities are in a partnership or are part of a global LLP. For more information, visit eversheds-sutherland.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005056/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Minister Joly, in Partnership with CBC/Radio-Canada, Announces a New Canadian Cultural Program to Promote the Learning of French and English as a second language The new program will pay tribute to the late Mauril Belanger, champion of Canada's official languages OTTAWA, May 28, 2019 /CNW/ - Canada's official languages help make our country more open and prosperous, and are a source of wealth for us all. They are at the heart of what it means to be Canadian. The Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie, used the Symposium on the 50th anniversary of the Official Languages Act to announce an investment of just over $16 million in a free program to help people learn and use English and French as a second language. CBC/Radio-Canada will design and implement this new program, dubbed "The Mauril" in honour of the late Mauril Belanger, a champion of Canada's two official languages. Through the program, Canadians will have access to a virtual learning environment, materials based on current events in Canada, Canadian cultural and artistic content, educational resources to help learners progress from a basic to an advanced level, and stimulating teaching tools to improve second-language comprehension and expression. The project is in line with the Action Plan for Official Languages 20182023: Investing in Our Future. Quotes "French and English are at the heart of Canadian identity. They are the languages of our national dialogue. The 50th anniversary of the Official Languages Act reminds us how important it is to create more opportunities for Canadians to learn them both. That's why "The Mauril" will become the go-to online program for all Canadiansseeking to learn and master their second official language. I am delighted that it is named in honour of Mauril Belanger, a former member of Parliament who defended our linguistic duality throughout his life." The Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie "Canada's public broadcaster is pleased and proud to be part of the Mauril project, an edutainment app for official languages learning. Drawing inspiration from the success of curio.ca, our teaching tool for the educational community, we will be supplying this new platform with 100% quality Canadian content drawn from CBC and Radio-Canada's rich collection. Catherine Tait, President and CEO, CBC/Radio-Canada Quick Facts Mauril Belanger was first elected to the House of Commons in 1995. Throughout his more than 20 years in Parliament, he was a champion of Canada's linguistic duality. The Mauril, an online program slated for launch in 2020, will be an easy-to-use tool to help Canadians learn or improve on their written and spoken comprehension and expression skillsand have fun in the process. The goal of the Action Plan for Official Languages is to support communities across the country and help make sure our official languages prosper in the years to come. With $2.7 billion in funding over 5 years, it represents the largest federal investment in official languages to date. The Official Languages Act , which came into force in 1969, recognizes English and French as the country's two official languages. It was enacted to better protect the rights of those living in official-language minority communities and promote the full recognition and use of both English and French in Canadian society. It also lays out that Canadians have a legal right to receive federal government services in the official language of their choosing. Associated Links Action Plan for Official Languages 20182023: Investing in Our Future Celebrating and modernizing the Official Languages Act SOURCE Canadian Heritage [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Bank of America's Erica Completes More Than 50 Million Client Requests in First Year Bank of America today announced that its virtual assistant, Erica, is already helping more than 7 million clients stay on top of their finances through the company's award-winning mobile app. Since its nationwide rollout in June 2018, Erica has: Completed over 50 million client requests - from everyday banking activities to more complex tasks - through the latest in artificial intelligence (AI), predictive analytics and natural language processing. Been engaged by an average of more than 500,000 new users per month. Doubled the various ways in which clients can ask financial questions - from 200,000 at launch to more than 400,000 today - through the ongoing expansion of conversational knowledge. Assisted clients across generations, including 15 percent from Gen Z, 49 percent millennials, 20 percent Gen X and 16 percent baby boomers/seniors. "The personalized, proactive and predictive nature of Erica's guidance is what will continue to make the solution unique and powerful," said David Tyrie, head of advanced solutions and digital banking at Bank of America. "It's been a solid first year, but we're just beginning to scratch the surface of Erica's full potential to transform the client experience and help them live their best financial lives." Since launching Erica's proactive insights late last year to give clients greater visibility into their full financial picture, daily engagement with the solution has doubled. On average, 150,000 clients now tap on the insights proactively shared by Erica each week. Throughout the remainder of 2019 and beyond, Bank of America will continue to expand and refine Erica's capabilities to provide clients further insights and guidance on optimizing cash flow, managing debt, monitoring transactions, capitalizing on savings opportunities and balancing competing priorities to reach critical financial goals. Recent developments include new insights introduced in March and a Balance Watch insight launching next month through which Erica will notify clients when typical spending has the potential to take their balance below $0 in the next seven days. For more information about key milestones during Erica's first year, click here. About Bank of America Digital Banking Bank of America's digital banking platform is an evolving source of increased client engagement and satisfaction serving more than 37 million digital clients, including more than 27 million active mobile users. Its award-winning mobile app and online banking were the first to receive J.D. Power's certification for "An Outstanding Customer Experience." During the first quarter of 2019, clients logged into mobile 1.5 billion times and deposited 34 million checks via mobile. To learn more about Bank of America's digital offerings visit bankofamerica.com. Bank of America Bank of America is one of the world's leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 66 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 4,400 retail financial centers, including approximately 1,800 lending centers, 2,200 financial centers with a Consumer Investment Financial Solutions Advisor, and 1,500 business centers; approximately 16,400 ATMs; and award-winning digital banking with more than 37 million active users, including over 27 million mobile users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 3 million small business owners through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and approximately 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom. Click here to register for news email alerts. www.bankofamerica.com Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC 2019 Bank of America Corporation. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005646/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Scali Rasmussen Bolsters Corporate and Real Estate Transactional Practice with Automotive Industry Veteran Rita Campanile Top automotive law firm Scali Rasmussen today announced that Rita Campanile has joined the firm's Automotive practice as Of Counsel. Having started her focus in the business of auto dealerships in 2008, Campanile is a seasoned corporate and transactional attorney, passionate about being a trusted, business-oriented advisor to her clients. Her legal expertise covers a broad array of services, including corporate governance; mergers & acquisitions (including dealer buy sells); new vehicle dealer franchises; commercial real estate transactions; environmental laws; employment/labor laws; financing/loan agreements; outside counsel selection/management drafting and conducting executive, manager and employee training; and creation of a complete library of templates, forms, policies, procedures and training materials. "Rita is a powerhouse when it comes to complex automotive transactions, whether involving privately or publicly held companies. Rita's joining our team not only reunites us wit a dear friend, but substantially adds to our already deep transactional practice," said firm Founder and Managing Partner, Christian Scali. "She understands the auto business, knows what clients are looking to accomplish and has the judgment and experience to navigate the gray areas of law to find the best solutions." Campanile successfully orchestrated and led one of the then largest automotive dealership buy/sell transactions involving a publicly-held auto dealer group which at closing simultaneously earned the sellers $364 million and contributed revenues of $2.3 billion annually (a 21% increase) to the buyer. Campanile began her automotive industry career with the DCH Auto Group as their Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary. DCH was one of the top 10 largest privately held automotive dealership groups in the United States, with a multitude of brands and rooftops in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, California and China. As General Counsel, Campanile served as a legal and strategic advisor to the Board of Directors and was also a member of Executive Committee and Advisory Board. She is well-versed in Corporate Compliance and Ethics Programs for Automotive Dealerships, real estate transactions and corporate mergers and acquisitions. "I was a client of Chris (Scali) and Bert (Rasmussen) for years and have worked with several of their team members," said Campanile. "I have seen firsthand that they put their clients first, they are extremely knowledgeable in automotive industry law and they are also incredibly smart. I am thrilled to now be working with the firm." Prior to her work with DCH, Campanile practiced at large law firms as well as in-house for major U.S. and foreign multinational corporations. Campanile has studied, lived and worked abroad extensively, is fluent in several languages, and has collaborated with business executives and around the world. Campanile is a member of the New Jersey and New York state bars and of various local and national automotive trade associations. She earned her J.D. at the University of Notre Dame Law School and her B.A. from Rutgers University and also studied law at the London School of Economics and at Kings College, University of London. Scali Rasmussen's attorneys are thought leaders in the automotive industry, often called upon to provide their opinions on new and trending issues on auto distribution and franchise, F&I, employment and advertising issues. The firm drafted the CNCDA's 2015 and 2017 Advertising Law Manuals, providing auto dealers with practical guidance on advertising practices. For more information, visit Scali Rasmussen. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005530/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] UrtheCast Announces Winning $2M in Technology Development Funding from the Canadian Space Agency VANCOUVER, May 28, 2019 /CNW/ - UrtheCast Corp. (TSX:UR) ("UrtheCast" or the "Company") today announces that it has been selected to receive $2.0 million from the Canadian Space Agency's ("CSA") Space Technology Development Program ("STDP"), in two separate agreements of $1.0 million each, for the development of new satellite technologies. The work is expected to start immediately and will be carried out over the next three years. The first CSA STDP contribution agreement, "Automated Calibration and Validation of Optical Satellite Constellations," will aid UrtheCast in the development of ground-breaking technologies for its planned UrtheDaily Constellation, currently slated for deployment in 2021. The second CSA STDP contribution agreement, "A Novel Self-Cueing TCPED Cycle for High Resolution Wide Swath SAR Imaging," will support continued development of the next generation UrtheCast SAR-XL Synthetic Aperture Radar. "We are extremely proud that the CSA has selected our innovative technology proposals through the highly competitive STDP program. This validation of our technology speaks to the Government of Canada's continued, active interest in our technologies and programs," explained UrtheCast's CEO Don Osborne. About UrtheCast UrtheCast Corp. is a Vancouver-based company that serves the rapidly growing and evolving geospatial and geo-analytics markets with a wide range of information-rich products and services. For more information, visit UrtheCast's website at www.urthecast.com. <>Forward Looking Information This release contains certain information which, as presented, constitutes "forward-looking information" or "forward-oriented financial information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information involves statements that relate to future events and often addresses expected future business and financial performance, containing words such as "anticipate", "plan", "explore" and "expect", statements that an action or event "may", "should" are "going" to occur or "will" be taken or occur, or other similar expressions and includes, but is not limited to, statements relating to: UrtheCast's ability to secure additional customer contracts for the planned UrtheDaily constellation in a timely manner or at all; and UrtheCast's ability to secure financing for the planned UrtheDaily constellation on acceptable terms, in a timely manner, or at all, and the related expectations regarding its build, launch and operations;. Such statements reflect UrtheCast's current views with respect to future events, and are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by UrtheCast as at the date of this press release, are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors could cause UrtheCast's actual results or performance to be materially different from expectations that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others: any delays or failures in the design, development, construction, launch and operational commissioning of the UrtheDaily constellation as well as those factors and assumptions discussed in UrtheCast's Annual Information Form dated March 29, 2019, which is available under UrtheCast's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. UrtheCast cautions readers that such factors and uncertainties are not exhaustive and that should certain risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying estimates or assumptions prove incorrect, actual results, performance or achievements may vary significantly from those expected. There can be no assurance that the actual strategies, results, performance, events or activities anticipated by the Company will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. UrtheCast undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by Canadian securities laws. Readers are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/urthecast-announces-winning-2m-in-technology-development-funding-from-the-canadian-space-agency-300857506.html SOURCE UrtheCast Corp. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Texas Instruments honors math heroes in new, nationwide contest, "Spread the Math Love" DALLAS, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- While the school year may be coming to an end, a new contest aimed at spreading the love of math is just getting started. Through September, Texas Instruments (TI) is asking people across the country to recognize the parents, teachers and mentors who inspired their passion for numbers for a chance to grant them a math wish. So far, Texas Instruments has received more than 800 entries in the "Spread the Math Love Contest" for a chance to make someone's math dreams come true. Today, TI surprised the first winner of the contest, Calculus teacher Glenn Marr from Park Vista Community High School, just outside of Palm Beach, Florida. High school senior Faith Southwick, who is the first person in her school's history to receive an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, nominated Mr. Marr for inspiring her love of math and helping to facilitate her military career. "I can honestly say that I may have never chosen this path, or been able to succed, without the mentorship of Mr. Marr. His mathematical abilities, which are remarkable on their own, are far outweighed by his passion for teaching calculus," wrote Southwick. Having dreamed of serving her country since she was 11 years old, Southwick plans to pursue a nuclear engineering degree at the academy. "For the next 20 years of my life, I will be using the momentum created by my two years in Mr. Marr's class, and my passion for math, to help defend the United States. I am extremely grateful to Mr. Marr for inspiring me, and others, in the way he has and I hope to inspire others in the future in a similar way." For his prize, Texas Instruments will fly Mr. Marr to San Francisco, California this summer, along with his wife, for a tour of the Exploratorium, a renowned collection of exhibits that draw together science, art, and human perception. "I can't believe it, this is a dream come true, definitely the best day I've ever had as a teacher," said Marr, who has been teaching mathematics at Park Vista Community High School for the past 15 years and has taught Southwick for the past 2 years. "The fact that she is going to be able to go to the US Naval Academy and I was a small part of that, it's unbelievable." The Exploratorium donated the tours to help fulfill Mr. Marr's math wish. There will be four additional "wish" winners through September. Help spread the love of math by recognizing and giving back to the person who helped you build a relationship with numbers. Honor them by sharing your math story for a chance to help them win a math wish at: https://education.ti.com/mathlove. About Texas Instruments: Education Technology, a business of Texas Instruments, provides a wide range of tools connecting the classroom experience with real-world applications, helping students and teachers to explore mathematics and science interactively. TI's products and services are tested vigorously against recognized third-party research, which shows that the effective use of graphing calculators improves the mathematical skills of students and their attitudes toward mathematics. For more information, visit www.education.ti.com. Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) is a global semiconductor design and manufacturing company that develops analog ICs and embedded processors. By employing the world's brightest minds, TI creates innovations that shape the future of technology. TI is helping more than 100,000 customers transform the future, today. Learn more at www.ti.com. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/texas-instruments-honors-math-heroes-in-new-nationwide-contest-spread-the-math-love-300857510.html SOURCE Texas Instruments [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] ERI's John Shegerian Describes the State of Digital Privacy, Data Protection at 2019 Digital New York Summit John Shegerian, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of ERI, the nation's leading fully integrated IT and electronics asset disposition provider and cybersecurity-focused hardware destruction company, was a featured panelist last week at the City and State 2019 Digital New York Summit at the National Geographic Encounter in New York City. City & State's 2019 Digital New York gathered New York's information leaders from government and industry for a day-long, dynamic program of candid discussion and thought-provoking presentations on the innovative ideas being used to improve the delivery of services to both citizens and government agencies. As part of a cross-disciplinary panel titled "Data Security in New York: Where We Stand," Shegerian was joined on stage by Tariq Habib, Chief Information Security Officer for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority; Richard T. Jacobs, Assistant Special Agent In-Charge, Cyber Branch, for the FBI; and Albert Fox Cahn,Executive Director of STOP (Surveillance Technology Oversight Project), who also served as moderator for the discussion. The experts shared the latest intel on concerns and best practices from varying perspectives about protecting privacy and managing data in the city of New York and beyond. During the discussion, Shegerian described and shared insights on what types of private and potentially dangerous content can be easily accessed on discarded or even on "wiped" hardware. He also explained key concerns relating to the very real threat of hardware hacking. The expert panelists also discussed next steps in terms of data security in New York and best practices in terms of what companies can do to proactively provide solutions and work together with government to keep data safe. "It has been an honor and privilege to share our insights with the audience at this important, forward-thinking summit," said Shegerian. "It has been rewarding to share what we know and what we've learned with other thought leaders from government agencies and law enforcement, discussing the urgent importance of data destruction, protecting the privacy of people and businesses. Proper destruction of private digital data has become a crucially important issue and these conversations at Digital NYC have been vital." ERI is the largest fully integrated IT and electronics asset disposition provider and cybersecurity-focused hardware destruction company in the United States. ERI is certified at the highest level by all leading environmental and data security oversight organizations to de-manufacture, recycle, and refurbish every type of electronic device in an environmentally responsible manner. ERI has the capacity to process more than a billion pounds of electronic waste annually at its eight certified locations, serving every zip code in the United States. ERI's mission is to protect organizations, people and the environment. For more information about e-waste recycling and ERI, call 1-800-ERI-DIRECT or visit https://eridirect.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005670/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Solera Holdings Announces Jeffrey R. Tarr as New CEO Solera (News - Alert) Holdings, Inc. ("Solera"), a global leader in risk and asset management data and software as a service (SaaS) solutions for the automotive and insurance industries, today announced that Jeff Tarr has joined the company as a director and its new CEO. Tarr, who replaces Tony Aquila as Solera's CEO, will be leading the company in its next phase of growth. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005674/en/ Jeffrey R. Tarr, Newly Announced CEO of Solera Holdings Tarr has two decades of experience leading data and technology-enabled services companies spanning multiple sectors. Most recently, Tarr served as CEO and President of DigitalGlobe (News - Alert), Inc. where he led the launch of innovative products that leveraged AI and other new technologies, entered new markets and nearly tripled the company's revenue. Prior to DigitalGlobe, Tarr was President and COO of IHS (News - Alert) Inc. (now IHS Markit Ltd.) where he helped transform the busiess into a high-growth, high-margin provider of information and insight. "Jeff's wealth of experience and his focus on building a high-performing team and culture committed to unlocking value for customers and shareholders alike make him the perfect leader for this next phase in Solera's growth," said Darko Dejanovic, Vista Operating Principal and Solera Board member. "During Tony's tenure, the Solera team built the company into a global leader. Solera is in a place of strength and we look forward to working with and supporting Jeff as he leads Solera to new heights." "I am honored to be joining Solera, and I look forward to working with the team to continue to grow the company, invest in our products and deliver an industry-leading experience to Solera's customers and partners," said Jeff Tarr, CEO of Solera. "For over 50 years, Solera has been leveraging data and software to serve the automotive and insurance industries. With more than 300 million transactions annually across the Solera ecosystem today, no company is better positioned to apply data and technology to protecting the assets people depend upon in their daily lives." Tarr serves on numerous corporate and philanthropic boards, including as Member of the Board of Directors of EchoStar Corporation, Chairman of the Stanford Graduate School of Business Management Board, Co-Chairman of the World Economic Forum's Council on the Future of Space Technologies, Member of the Board of the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation, and a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. About Solera Solera is a global leader in risk and asset management data and software as a service (SaaS (News - Alert)) solutions for the automotive and insurance industries. Solera is active in over 90 countries across six continents. Solera has over 235,000 customers and partners, including many of the largest U.S. and European P&C insurance companies and most of the world's largest vehicle OEMs, as well as national governments, financial institutions, vehicle dealership, vehicle repair shops, salvage yards and vehicle buyers and sellers. For more information, please visit www.solera.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005674/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Sysdig Honored as One of Inc. Magazine's Best Workplaces 2019 Sysdig, Inc., the cloud-native visibility and security company, announced today that it was selected out of more than 2,000 submissions to be named one of Inc. magazine's Best Workplaces for 2019 in the fourth annual Inc. ranking. This marks the third Best Places to Work award Sysdig has won in the last two months. Sysdig was recently named a 2019 Bay Area Best Places To Work by the San Francisco Business Times and the Silicon Valley Business Journal, and Battery Venture listed Sysdig second on the 50 Highest Rated Private Cloud Computing Companies to Work For list compiled with the help of Glassdoor. The 2019 Inc. winners include private American companies that have created exceptional workplaces through vibrant cultures, deep employee engagement, and stellar benefits. Omaha's Quantum (News - Alert) Workplace anonymously surveyed employees from each nominated company, asking questions about company trust, management effectiveness, perks, and confidence in the future. With the survey data, Quantum Workplace ranked employers using a composite score of survey results. "One of our mottos since day one has been to 'live joyously,' and we place a premium on putting people first - our team, our customers, our partners, everyone. To live joyously requires great communication, openness, and respect," said Suresh Vasudevan, chief executive officer at Sysdig. "To hear that our own employees would recommend us as a great employer and more than 85% described themselves as being highly engaged at Sysdig reflects the culture Loris Degioanni, our founder and chief technology officer, has instilled in the company since day one. It also reflects the people we hire at Sysdig - the best and the brightest who you can also call friends." Sysdig, a San Francisco-based company with five offices globally, delivers the only unified visibility, security, and forensics platform for cloud-native architectures and closes the cloud-native visibility gap, enabling enterprises to adopt modern infrastructure faster, with less risk, and at a lower cost. Every enterprisetoday has software powering its innovation, which makes every business a software business. Fueling this imperative, enterprises are transforming their approach to software development by making a generational shift from monolithic applications to highly distributed, cloud-native microservices. Sysdig took a data-focused approach and focuses on all three stages of containers - build, run, and respond - giving enterprises the workflows on top of the data to solve the problems unique to each stage of operating in modern environments - from development and production to remediation. Demand for Sysdig technologies - open source and commercial - has skyrocketed over the last 12 months as DevOps teams realize that technologies like Docker, Kubernetes, and OpenShift need container visibility and security solutions. Last year Sysdig more than tripled its Fortune 500 customer deployments and last October Sysdig closed a $68.5 million Series D funding round. Just last month Sysdig announced the opening of two new offices in Italy and Spain. As Sysdig continues to grow, the company is committed to maintaining a joyous company culture and putting people first. "With today's tight labor market, building a great corporate culture is more important than ever," says Inc. magazine editor in chief James Ledbetter. "The companies on Inc.'s Best Workplaces list are setting an example that the whole country can learn from." Connect with Sysdig Sysdig career page Twitter LinkedIn YouTube Facebook About Sysdig Sysdig is the cloud-native visibility and security company. Our data platform gives enterprises insight and control as they transition to dynamic modern architectures, allowing them to see the benefits of cloud-native faster, with less risk. Our open source technologies have attracted a community of millions of developers, administrators and other IT professionals. The Sysdig cloud-native visibility and security platform allows DevOps, security professionals, and service owners to get context-rich information to dig deeper into their containerized environments and reliably build, run and respond to issues in millions of containers across hundreds of enterprises, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and web-scale properties. Learn more at www.sysdig.com. About Inc. Media Founded in 1979 and acquired in 2005 by Mansueto Ventures, Inc. is the only major brand dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies, with the aim to deliver real solutions for today's innovative company builders. Winner of Advertising Age (News - Alert)'s "A-List" in January 2015, and a National Magazine Award for General Excellence in both 2014 and 2012, Inc. has a monthly audience reach that's grown from two million in 2010 to more than 20 million today. For more information, visit Inc.com. About Quantum Workplace Quantum Workplace is an HR technology company that serves organizations through employee engagement surveys, action-planning tools, exit surveys, peer-to-peer recognition, performance evaluations, goal tracking, and leadership assessment. For more information, visit QuantumWorkplace.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005713/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Tantech Holdings Ltd. to Hold Annual Meeting of Shareholders on July 27, 2019 LISHUI, China, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Tantech Holdings Ltd. (TANH) ("Tantech" or the "Company"), a leading clean energy company in China, today announced that it plans to hold its 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders on July 27, 2019, at 10:00 A.M., local time, at 9th Floor, Block A, FPI, No. 459 Qianmo Rd, Binjiang District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, PRC. Shareholders as of the record date, close of business on June 24, 2019, will be entitled to vote at the meeting. Although the Company does not provide its shareholders with any right to put any proposals before annual general meetings, any shareholder may submit a proposal to the Company for consideration of inclusion in a proxy statement. The Company has determined that June 10, 2019 should be the deadline for receipt of proposals. Such proposals by mails should be delivered to: Tantech Holdings Ltd, c/o Zhejiang Forest Bamboo Technology Co., Ltd., No. 10 Cen Shan Road, Shuige Industrial Zone, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, PRC 323000, Attention: Corporate Secretary. Proposals by email should be sent to [email protected]. About Tantech Holdings Ltd. Established in 2001 and headquartered in Lishui City, Zhejiang Provnce, China, Tantech Holdings Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, develops and manufactures bamboo-based charcoal products in China and internationally. It operates through three segments: Consumer Products, Trading, and electronic vehicle. The Company provides its products for industrial energy applications, as well as household cooking, heating, purification, agricultural, and cleaning uses. The company also exports its bamboo vinegar, bamboo charcoal purification products. For more information about Tantech Holdings Ltd., please visit: http://ir.tantech.cn Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, product and service demand and acceptance, changes in technology, economic conditions, the impact of competition and pricing, government regulations, and other risks contained in reports filed by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All such forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, and whether made by or on behalf of the Company, are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and any other cautionary statements which may accompany the forward-looking statements. In addition, the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. For more information please contact: Tantech Holdings Ltd. Ms. Nancy Wang IR Manager +86-578-261-2869 [email protected] View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tantech-holdings-ltd-to-hold-annual-meeting-of-shareholders-on-july-27-2019-300857572.html SOURCE Tantech Holdings Ltd. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] By Bahk Eun-ji The Sunfull Movement, a nonprofit anti-cyberbullying foundation, said Tuesday it will support a campaign to encourage positive comments online, sponsored by Google Korea. Officials from the foundation and the company, as well as participants in the campaign, held a launch ceremony at the National Assembly Library in Seoul. Under the theme of eliminating hate speech and malicious comments online, Google Korea and the Sunfull Movement will support 100 youth clubs in elementary, middle and high schools and universities nationwide. Members of the clubs will post comments and video clips about the harmful effects of hate speech as a part of their activities. Google Korea is participating in the movement as a part of the company's efforts to educate the public on making proper judgments about the media in the digital age and how to use various media tools. It has been running a relevant program since 2017. "It is meaningful that the global internet company Google is joining hands with us," said Sunfull Movement Chairman Min Byoung-chul. "The Sunfull Movement is an online peace campaign fighting against derogatory and malicious comments. I hope this campaign will be an opportunity for young people to realize the harmful effects of malicious commenting." [May 28, 2019] Golden Section Technologies Launches Houston-Based GSTVC to Invest in Seed Stage B2B SaaS Companies HOUSTON, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Golden Section Technologies announces the creation of GSTVC, a new Houston-based venture fund with a focus on seed stage B2B SaaS companies. GSTVC invests alongside talented entrepreneurs with a deep understanding of the end customer's problems, a sellable product, and demonstrated customer traction. "We have had great success with the investment strategy at our technology company, Golden Section Technology. Due to interest from other investors we are now increasing the size of our fund to deliver greater value to our entrepreneur partners and larger returns to our investors," says Dougal Cameron, Managing Partner at GSTVC. "We have done things a bit differently than the traditional investment fund as we supply far more than just working capital. We have the full strength of our software development company, Golden Section Technology, as well as deep experience in early stage B2B Sales and Marketing. The combination of our experience, capitl and hands on approach has the potential to substantially decrease the risk for our portfolio companies and increase the return for our investors," says Isaac Shi, Managing Partner at GSTVC. "The world doesn't need one more B2B investment fund like all the others, but there is surely room for one which reduces the risk of execution and accelerates product development in the manner that GSTVC can. They are doing something very different," says Marshall Williams, entrepreneur and Founder of QMSC, LLC, one of GSTVC's portfolio companies. GSTVC is a Houston based investment fund specializing in early stage investments in business to business and SaaS delivery model technology companies. GSTVC partners with driven entrepreneurs to build great companies. The fund is excited to meet entrepreneurs who have a deep understanding of the end customer's problems and an existing product. For more information, please visit https://www.gstvc.com and https://www.gstdev.com. QMSC LLC provides a suite of quality management tools enabling sustainable positive change to product and service companies. With its cloud based and mobile centric solution, QMSC replaces existing ad-hoc quality assurance and operations management tools while leveraging the power of analytics to identify core issues resulting in reduced operating costs and improved profitability. For more information, please visit https://www.qualitymsc.com. Golden Section Ventures, LLC 808 Travis Street, Suite 1406 Houston, Texas 77002 Dougal Cameron, [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/golden-section-technologies-launches-houston-based-gstvc-to-invest-in-seed-stage-b2b-saas-companies-300857727.html SOURCE Golden Section Technology [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP Announces Investigation on Behalf of Intelligent Systems Corporation Investors (INS) Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP ("GPM") announces an investigation on behalf of Intelligent Systems Corporation ("Intelligent Systems" or the "Company") (NYSE: INS) 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. 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 contactLesley Portnoy, Esquire, at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, or by email to [email protected], or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com. On May 24, 2019, Aurelius Value published a report alleging that the financial expert of the Company's Audit Committee had engaged in improper accounting practices and that its Chief Executive Officer had engaged in many undisclosed related party transactions. On this news, the Company's share price fell $4.18, nearly 11%, to close at $34.93 per share on May 24, 2019, thereby injuring investors. If you purchased Intelligent Systems 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, of GPM, 1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100, Los Angeles, CA (News - Alert) 90067 at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005784/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] INVESTOR ALERT: Law Offices of Howard G. Smith Announces the Filing of a Securities Class Action on Behalf of CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. Investors (CBL) Law Offices of Howard G. Smith announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. ("CBL & Associates" or the "Company") (NYSE: CBL) securities between November 8, 2017 and March 26, 2019, inclusive (the "Class Period"). CBL & Associates investors have until July 16, 2019 to file a lead plaintiff motion. Investors suffering losses on their CBL & Associates investments are encouraged to contact the Law Offices of Howard G. Smith to discuss their legal rights in this class action at 888-638-4847 or by email to [email protected]. On March 26, 2019, the Company disclosed that it had settled for $90 million a class action suit allegng that CBL & Associates overcharged its tenants for electricity. On this news, the Company's share price fell $0.47, nearly 25%, to close at $1.44 per share on March 27, 2019, thereby injuring investors. The complaint filed in this class action alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors: (1) the Company was the target of a class action suit that could result in tens of millions or even hundreds of millions of dollars in liability; and (2) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. If you purchased shares of CBL & Associates, have information, 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 Howard G. Smith, Esquire, of Law Offices of Howard G. Smith, 3070 Bristol Pike, Suite 112, Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020 by telephone at (215) 638-4847, toll-free at (888) 638-4847, or by email to [email protected], or visit our website at www.howardsmithlaw.com. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005788/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Telaria to Present at the Credit Suisse Communications Conference Telaria, Inc. (NYSE:TLRA), the complete software platform for publishers to manage and monetize premium video advertising, today announced that CEO, Mark Zagorski will present at the Credit Suisse Communications Conference in New York, NY on Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at 3:45 PM ET. A live audio webcast of the respective presentations will be available on the Company's Investor Relations website at www.telaria.com. Replays will be available following the live presentations. About Telaria Telaria, Inc. (NYSE:TLRA), is a complete software platform to manage premium video advertising. We engineer the most robust suite of analytics, automated decisioning, and integrated programmatic and direct monetization tools in the industry. Global publishers require total command of their business; Telaria's independent solution empowers unbiased decisions for the best revenue outcomes. Telaria operates out of 13 offices worldwide across North America, EMEA, LATAM and APAC. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005795/en/ [May 28, 2019] Kohn, Swift & Graf, P.C. Announces Jury Verdict in Class Action Lawsuit Against Bucks County for Willfully Violating PA Criminal History Record Information Act On Tuesday, May 28, 2019 a jury in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania ruled that Bucks County and the Bucks County Department of Corrections (collectively, Bucks County) willfully violated Pennsylvania's Criminal History Record Information Act (CHRIA) by unlawfully disseminating the Criminal Record History of 66,799 individuals that were booked in the Bucks County Correctional Facility between 1938 and 2013. As such, members of a class action lawsuit, Taha v. County of Bucks, No. 12-06867, have been awarded $1,000 in punitive damages per class member. The precise number of class members eligible for this award will be determined by the court at a later date. The case, filed in 2013, involved the question of whether Bucks County broke the law when it disseminated criminal history on an "inmate lookup tool" located on Bucks County's website from 2011-2013. The District Court granted summary judgment for the Plaintiff on liability, finding that the inmate lookup tool violated CHRIA's prohibition against disclosing to the public confidential information about individuals who had been processed by the Bucks County facility, Taha v. County of Bucks, 2016 WL 1182095 (E.D.Pa. 2014). The court also certified as a class action for trial to determine whether Bucks' conduct was willul under CHRIA. The United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit affirmed the trial court's certification ruling prior to trial, Taha v. County of Bucks, 862 F.3d 292, 303 (3d Cir. 2017). "We are gratified by the jury's verdict," said Jonathan Shub of Kohn, Swift (News - Alert) & Graf, P.C., Co-Lead Counsel for the Class. "This case has always been about Bucks' conduct in protecting the privacy of almost 68,000 people. The evidence at trial overwhelmingly proved that they dropped the ball in a reckless manner and the jury's verdict sent a clear message to Bucks that this conduct will not be tolerated." The case, Taha v. County of Bucks, No. 12-06867, lasted five days before the Honorable Wendy Beetlestone, United States District Court Judge. Theodore M. Schaer of Zarwin, Baum, DeVito, Kaplan, Schaer, Toddy, P.C., served as lead trial counsel. Jonathan Shub of Kohn, Swift & Graf, P.C. and Alan Denenberg of Abramson & Denenberg, P.C. served as additional trial counsel. Robert J. LaRocca, Zahra R. Dean and Aarthi Manohar of Kohn, Swift also assisted at trial. More information about the case can be found at www.chrialitigation.com. About Kohn Swift & Graf Kohn, Swift & Graf (KSG) is a national leader in class actions, including complex consumer litigation. With experienced attorneys and a competent support staff, the firm strives to provide the highest quality of service to clients. Each case is treated with careful attention to ensure that consumers get the justice they deserve. KSG is centrally located in Philadelphia, PA and handles class actions nationwide. For more information visit www.kohnswift.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005823/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Tencent and Roblox Form Strategic Partnership Roblox, a global online experience bringing more than 90 million people together through play, and Tencent Holdings (News - Alert) Limited, one of the largest internet companies in the world, today announced a strategic partnership to help fuel the next generation of Chinese creators. Roblox is on a mission to bring the world together through play by inspiring imagination, creativity, and learning through shared online experiences. Roblox will accelerate these efforts in China through the strategic partnership with Tencent. Together, the companies will establish a joint-venture company with an initial focus on education to teach coding fundamentals, game design, digital citizenship, and entrepreneurial skills. Based in Shenzhen, the joint venture will create opportunities for local Chinese developers to leverage the global Roblox ecosystem, with the ultimate goal of bringing Roblox to China. "I'm extremely excited to partner with Roblox," said Steven Ma, Senior Vice President of Tencent. "We believe technological advancement will help Chinese students learn by fueling their creativity and imagination. Our partnership with Roblox provides an engaging way to reach children of all ages across China to develop skills like coding, design and entrepreneurship." "Tencent is the perfect partner for Roblox in China," said Roblox Founder and CEO Dave Baszucki. "They have a deep understanding of the Chinese market and share our belief of the power of digital creation and our vision to bring the world together through play." To kick-off the joint venture's new Education Initiative, Roblox and Tencent announced a scholarship fund to sponsor 15 young creators from China to attend week-long creator camps at Stanford University this summer. Taught by iD Tech, the world's largest and most trusted name in quality summer tech education, students will create 3D worlds, learn game design, and practice programming fundamentals using the Roblox developer tools and Lua code. Together with the China Association for Educational echnology (CAET), Roblox and Tencent are calling for applications from young creators throughout China. Students aged 10-15 can apply to the program, and CAET encourages teachers to nominate and support students. Applications for the scholarships can be submitted at https://roblox.qq.com/scholarships/ and winners will be selected by CAET experts. Submissions close on June 14, and scholarship recipients will be notified on June 28. The first camp will run the week of July 23 with a second session the week of August 18. Students will be provided food and lodging at the prestigious Stanford University in the heart of Silicon Valley, California. "Tencent and Roblox are providing an invaluable opportunity for Chinese youth to learn at a prestigious university. We look forward to Roblox and Tencent's continued efforts to fuel the creativity of Chinese students through local programs," said Mr. Shang, Deputy of Peking University School of Education, and Chairman of CAET expert committee. These efforts are the first of a multi-year investment from the joint venture that will ultimately reach all connected Chinese students. Future programs will include local coding camps as well as training programs for instructors to build customized educational experiences for their students. The goal of the initiative is to foster innovation among the next generation of students and teachers who are pioneering STEM learning and education in China. Education is a fundamental part of Roblox, and through the company's educational programs, kids and teens around the world are learning STEM skills. Roblox recently added support for Chinese languages and made its coding curriculum available for free in Chinese. About Tencent Tencent uses technology to enrich the lives of Internet users. Our communications and social platforms, Weixin and QQ, connect users to each other, as well as to digital content and services such as games, video, music and literature. Our proprietary targeting technology helps advertisers reach out to hundreds of millions of consumers in China. Our infrastructure services including payment, security, cloud and artificial intelligence create differentiated offerings and support our partners' business growth. Tencent invests heavily in people and innovation, enabling it to evolve with the Internet. Tencent was founded in Shenzhen, China, in 1998. Shares of Tencent (00700.HK) are traded on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong. About Roblox Roblox's mission is to bring the world together through play. Every month, more than 90 million people around the world have fun with friends as they explore millions of immersive digital experiences. All of these experiences are built by the Roblox community, made up of over two million creators. We believe in building a safe, civil, and diverse community-one that inspires and fosters creativity and positive relationships between people around the world. For more information, please visit https://corp.roblox.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005832/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 28, 2019] Hyundai's Hdac Technology and TODAQ sign agreement for Strategic Business Cooperation Hdac Technology-TODAQ, promoting organic collaboration for innovation of decentralised technology Utilizing TODA Protocol for Hdac projects, and building markets for the HDAC token and TDN SEOUL, South Korea, May 28, 2019 /CNW/ -- Hyundai backed Hdac Technology, a blockchain technology company founded by Dae-sun Chung, a president of Hyundai BS&C, signed a business agreement with TODAQ for strategic business cooperation at its headquarters in Toegye-ro, Seoul, on May 17th. TODAQ is a global fintech company with offices in Seoul and Toronto and operates across Asia, Middle East and Europe providing decentralised supply chain and customer solutions to global corporations, banks and governments. TODAQ's platform is built on the decentralised TODA Protocol, which will be open sourced in the near future. Hdac and TODAQ pledged organic cooperation for the development of innovative decentralised technology through this agreement. In order to innovate blockchain technology, both companies will actively pursue joint projects and research and development based on the technological capabilitie of each company. The TODA Protocol will be used to strengthen existing Hdac blockchain technology. In addition, the two companies will make multifaceted efforts to establish close partnership between the two companies' global business development; join with TODAQ's other corporate partners on a global series of developer labs and hackathon competitions across Korea, North America, Europe, etc; and collaborate on building real economy usage cases for digital assets, including the HDAC token and the soon to be released TDN ('TODA Note'). "Based on our innovative technology, we will continue to carry out various projects for the development of blockchain technology with TODAQ. We will continue to strengthen cooperation with leading domestic and foreign innovation companies to provide more value to our customers." said BuYoung Yun, Hdac CEO. "We expect this agreement Hdac will bring both companies greater competitiveness in the development of decentralised business solutions and global expansion." said Hassan Khan, TODAQ CEO and Co-founder. Both companies also look forward to leveraging their respective markets and partners to mutual benefit. This year, TODAQ is concurrently launching retail, energy, education and pharmaceutical commercial projects across Asia, the Middle East and Europe. On the other hand, Hdac signed a MOU with Hyundai BS&C and GC Green Cross Healthcare in March for cooperation in the blockchain-based healthcare business, and is actively working on developing blockchain technology and expanding business by signing a partnership with India's first blockchain project "Eleven01" in April to develop blockchain technology. For further information: [email protected] View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hyundais-hdac-technology-and-todaq-sign-agreement-for-strategic-business-cooperation-300857813.html SOURCE TODAQ Financial Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Six pre-season friendlies announced for U23s Tuesday, 28 May, 2019 Everton Under-23s will warm up for their Premier League 2 title defence by playing six pre-season friendlies this summer.The young Blues will take on League Two Swindon Town on Thursday, 11 July (11am) as part of a warm-weather training camp in La Manga, Spain, before travelling to another fourth-tier side in Morecambe on Saturday, 20 July (3pm).Chorley, who will begin life in the National League next season after winning promotion via the National League North play-offs, will host David Unsworth's charges three days later on Tuesday, 23 July (7:30pm), with a trip to Welsh club Rhyl's Belle Vue Stadium confirmed for Saturday, 27 July (3pm).The young Blues will travel to Bamber Bridge of the Northern Premier League on Wednesday, 31 July (7:30pm) and then face Wigan Under-23s on Saturday, 3 August (1pm) at the Latics' Christopher Park Training Ground.Everton Under-23s completed a league and cup double last season. Unsworth's side topped Premier League 2 for the second time in three years, before beating Newcastle United 1-0 at Goodison Park to secure the Club's first Premier League Cup success. About these ads With a bigger cover display, improved design and innovative Flex Mode, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 is the best foldable phone yet and a productivity powerhouse. With a bigger cover display, improved design and innovative Flex Mode, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 is the best foldable phone yet and a productivity powerhouse. Update: Samsung has unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold 3 with a more durable design, water resistance S Pen support and improved multitasking. See our Galaxy Z Fold 3 review in progress. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 is a quantum leap better than the original Fold. And it needs to be for the high price. The front display is a lot bigger, 5G is standard, and the unsightly notch on the inside is gone. Plus, this foldable is more durable than the first Fold. Samsung has further innovated to make this phone-tablet hybrid a lot more versatile, thanks to a new Flex Mode. Plus, the multitasking is better for running up to three apps at the same time, and several apps have a dual-pane view for enhanced productivity. The Galaxy Z Fold 2s cameras are not as advanced as what you'll find on the Galaxy S21 Ultra (especially the zoom) and the design is pretty hefty. Plus, Samsung is reportedly prepping the Galaxy Z Fold 3 for a launch that's tipped for August, a sequel that may offer S Pen support along with other upgrades. But if you're in the market for a foldable phone now, the Z Fold 2 does a very good job of justifying Samsung's high asking price. It's no wonder why we named this the best foldable phone in our Tom's Guide Awards 2021 for phones. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 review: What I like (Image credit: Future) Bigger front display makes a huge difference: The cover display has grown to 6.2 inches, which means you dont have to use the internal display to get stuff done. The exterior screen is narrower than typical phones, though. The cover display has grown to 6.2 inches, which means you dont have to use the internal display to get stuff done. The exterior screen is narrower than typical phones, though. Apps finally make the most of tablet-size screen: For example, in Gmail youll see your list of emails on the left and the body of messages on the right, and Slack will display contacts on the left and messages on the right. The iPhone can't do this. For example, in Gmail youll see your list of emails on the left and the body of messages on the right, and Slack will display contacts on the left and messages on the right. The iPhone can't do this. The multitasking is better: Its pretty easy to create app pairs to launch three apps at once. I also like that you can drag and drop content from one window to another in certain apps. Its pretty easy to create app pairs to launch three apps at once. I also like that you can drag and drop content from one window to another in certain apps. Flex mode adds versatility: Thanks to the cam mechanism in the hinge, you can open the display at various angles. Flex Mode is there to take advantage of that. For example, in the camera app, youll see the live previous up top and controls down below. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 review: What I don't like The main display is smudge prone: Although the Ultra Thin Glass on the 7.6-inch screen is more durable and has a better feel, it picks up smudges quickly. And, yes, the crease is still noticeable. Although the Ultra Thin Glass on the 7.6-inch screen is more durable and has a better feel, it picks up smudges quickly. And, yes, the crease is still noticeable. Limited zoom: I can live without the Galaxy S21 Ultra's 108MP sensor, but having just 2x optical zoom on a $2,000 phone when you can get 10x on the Note is a bummer. I can live without the Galaxy S21 Ultra's 108MP sensor, but having just 2x optical zoom on a $2,000 phone when you can get 10x on the Note is a bummer. No water resistance: When it started to drizzle outside I took the Z Fold 2 indoors because there is no water resistance promised for this device. When it started to drizzle outside I took the Z Fold 2 indoors because there is no water resistance promised for this device. This is a hefty device: At 9.9 ounces, the Z Fold 2 is heavier than the original Galaxy Fold (9.5 ounces) and I felt a bit of strain after several minutes of typing. Then again, you are getting a phone and tablet in one. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 review: Price and availability Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 specs Price: $1,799 OS: Android 10 Main display: 7.6 inch inches 120Hz (2208 x 1768 pixels) Cover display: 6.2 inches 60Hz (2260 x 816 pixels) CPU: Snapdragon 865 Plus RAM: 12GB Storage: 256GB Rear cameras: 12MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide, 12MP telephoto (2x optical/10x digital zoom) Selfie cameras: 10MP (cover), 10MP (main display) Battery: 4,500 mAh Battery life: 10 hours 10 minutes Size: 6.2 x 2.6 x 0.66 inches (closed); 6.2 x 5 x 0.27 inches (open) Weight: 9.9 ounces The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 release date was September 18, 2020. It's available for sale through multiple carriers as well as unlocked. When it debuted the Galaxy Z Fold 2 cost $1,999 for 256GB of storage and 12GB of RAM. Note that a microSD card slot is not included and there are no other capacities available. These days, after a permanent $200 price cut, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 sells for $1,799. (That could be a sign that Samsung is looking to clear out stock in advance of the anticipated launch of the Galaxy Z Fold 3 later this year.) To put the Z Fold 2's price in context, Microsoft charges $1,400 for its Surface Duo phone. To see how similar these two foldable devices are, check out our Microsoft Surface Duo vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 face-off. If you're looking for Galaxy Z Fold 2 deals, the phone has been discounted as low as $999. So it can pay to look for sales on this foldable phone. The Galaxy Z Fold 2 is available through all of the major carriers, including AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile (Sprint), as well as unlocked. Samsung offers the Galaxy Z Premier Service for the Z Fold 2, which includes on-demand concierge support from dedicated experts. In addition, Z Fold 2 owners can get a membership to FoundersCard, access to a prepared meal from a Michelin star restaurant and access to a various golf clubs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 review: Design and durability (Image credit: Future) The Galaxy Z Fold 2 immediately makes a better impression than the Galaxy Fold because of its larger exterior display. You no longer feel like you're operating Android through a peep hole, and that's because the cover screen has grown from 4.6 inches to 6.2 inches. The interior display is also bigger at 7.6 inches for the Galaxy Z Fold 2, compared to 7.3 inches for the previous model. Even better, the ugly notch on the main screen is gone, replaced by a small cutout for a selfie camera. Samsung also made several enhancements fo the Galaxy Z Fold 2 to improve durability and usability. This includes a sturdier new Ultra Thin Glass display, which is designed to provide a better touchscreen feel than the plastic screen Fold, and a Hideaway hinge that uses sweeper technology to prevent dust and dirt from entering the phone. In a third-party test by YouTuber JerryRigEverything, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 survived having dirt thrown on it, which suggests that the new hinge works better than on the original model. (Image credit: Future) Similar to the Galaxy Z Flip 5G, the Galaxy Z Fold 2's hinge uses a CAM mechanism that allows you to position the screen in multiple positions. And while there's still a gap between the two sides of the phone when closed, it's narrower than before. (Image credit: Future) The Galaxy Z Fold 2 comes in two colors: Mystic Bronze and Mystic Black. But you'll be able to add some flair in the form of four hinge color options if you order through Samsung.com. Options include Metallic Silver, Metallic Gold, Metallic Red and Metallic Blue. Measuring 6.2 x 2.6 x 0.66 inches when closed and 6.2 x 5 x 0.27 inches when open, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 is slightly shorter but wider than its predecessor. It's also heavier, as the Z Fold 2 weights 9.9 ounces, compared to 9.48 ounces for the original model. I definitely felt a bit of strain after using the phone several minutes and typing out messages. Another bummer: The Galaxy Z Fold 2 doesn't offer water resistance, so you can't get it wet as you can with other flagship phones. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 review: Display (Image credit: Future) In addition to a larger size, the 7.6-inch main display on the Galaxy Z Fold 2 boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, so you should enjoy smooth scrolling and overall performance compared to the 60Hz rate on the Galaxy Fold. Plus, because the panel is adaptive, it's smart enough to dial the rate down or up based on the content on screen. The cover display on the Galaxy Z Fold 2 does not offer a 120Hz refresh rate, but it's still a heck of a lot better than what the first Fold featured. Measuring 6.2 inches, this OLED screen is big enough to perform pretty much any task, and you can still instantly resume what you were doing on the main display when you unfold the device. Just keep in mind that the aspect ratio on the Z Fold 2's cover display is narrower than most phones, so typing can feel a bit cramped. Galaxy Z Fold 2 review: Software and Flex Mode (Image credit: Future) One of the complaints we had about the Galaxy Fold is that many of the apps just felt like blow-up phone apps in tablet mode. But Samsung is addressing this drawback with the Galaxy Z Fold 2. For example, in Gmail I could see my messages on the left and the body of emails on the right. And in Slack my contacts were on the left and messages on the right. You need to flip the Galaxy Z Fold 2 display's orientation to landscape mode to see these changes, but it makes a huge difference in productivity. And it makes the Galaxy Z Fold 2 feel more laptop-like. Samsung also promises an optimized viewing experience in Microsoft Office and YouTube. (Image credit: Future) The Galaxy Z Fold 2's Flex Mode gives this foldable phone a lot of versatility. The idea is that you can have controls or settings on one side of the display and content on the other for maximum productivity. (Image credit: Future) I really enjoyed using Google Duo in Flex Mode, as it lets you set the phone down in a laptop-like position and have a video call with the other person without having to hold the device. It's something I immediately wished my iPhone could do. Samsung says that Flex Mode is supported by several Samsung apps, including Camera, Video call, Gallery, Video player, Clock and Calendar. And Google is supporting Flex Mode with YouTube as well as Google Duo. Samsung is working with third-party developers as well to create Flex Mode optimized apps. (Image credit: Future) Another key Galaxy Z Fold 2 upgrade is multi-tasking. With the improved Multi-Active Window feature, you can open up to three apps at the same time and can quickly create presets called App Pairs that you launch with just a tap. I tried this with Slack, Twitter, and Spotify as well as YouTube, Photos and Messages, and it was very cool to launch three apps at once.You can also quickly re-arrange the layout with a tap or drag an app from one window to another. Even cooler, you can also drag and drop content from one window to another. I had no problem dropping a photo from the Gallery app into an outgoing message. However, it didn't work with the Google Photos app. Multiple Samsung apps support Drag and Drop, as does Microsoft 365, Gmail, Chrome and Google Maps. Samsung's App continuity feature is also on board from the original Galaxy Fold. The idea is that you can start an app on the cover display, open the main display and pick up right where you left off. This worked in most apps, but the Sky Force 2 game forced to me restart the app when moving to the bigger canvas. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 cameras (Image credit: Future) It's a bit strange to say this, but the $2,000 Galaxy Z Fold 2 represents a step down from the $1,300 Galaxy Note 20 when it comes to the cameras. You don't get a 108MP main sensor, a 5x optical zoom or a 50x Space Zoom, but you do get three capable shooters you can use in a variety of ways. The Galaxy Z Fold 2 features a 12MP main wide-angle camera, a 12MP ultra-wide angle camera with a 123-degree field of view and a 12MP telephoto lens with a 2x optical zoom and 10x digital zoom. (Image credit: Future) The fun really starts with the camera features that are unique to the Galaxy Z Fold 2. For example, Dual Preview lets subjects see how they're going to look using the front display while you're taking the shot. You can also take higher quality selfies with the rear cameras. All you need to do is fire up the camera on the cover display and then press a button in the top right corner, then the Z Fold 2 will invite you to unfold the device and you'll see a live preview. (Image credit: Future) Another perk: you can prop up the Galaxy Z Fold 2 in what looks like laptop mode and it will keep your subject in focus when shooting video using a feature called Auto framing. Thanks to Flex Mode, you can also review recent pictures on the bottom half of the screen while maintaining the live preview in the top half. (Image credit: Future) The Z Fold 2's camera did a fantastic job capturing a close-up of these yellow and violet flowers. You can make out fine details in the petals and even fine droplets of water when you zoom in. (Image credit: Future) I also took this selfie using the rear 12MP camera and the Z Fold 2's cover screen as the viewfinder. The blue in my shirt pops, and the surrounding trees and grass look vibrant. You simply can't do this on an iPhone. Image 1 of 2 (Image credit: Future) Image 2 of 2 (Image credit: Future) As expected, the 10x digital zoom proved disappointing compared to the more powerful Space Zoom on the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra. As we zero in on the tree and hanging flower baskets, there's a fair amount of grain. It's certainly passable, though. The Galaxy Z Fold 2 did a fairly good job in this portrait shot, artfully blurring the photos in the background. The bokeh effect is better on the Z Fold 2 than the iPhone 12. However, my face is a bit more blown out in Samsung's shot. In this shot of fall decorations, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 delivers a brighter overall image, and you can make out lots of detail in the turkeys. The iPhone 11 Pro Max does a better job rendering the hay but overall I give the edge to Samsung here. The Galaxy Z Fold's 2 Night mode worked well in this shot taken in near darkness of a wall hanging. However, the iPhone 11 Pro Max's Night mode captured a considerably brighter image of the scene. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 review: Performance (Image credit: Future) The Galaxy Z Fold 2 sports a Snapdragon 865 Plus processor along with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage (UFS3.1). So we would expect similar performance to the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra. On Geekbench 5, which measures overall performance, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 scored 3,193 on the mult-core portion. The Note 20 Ultra with the same chip scored a slightly higher 3,294 and the Asus ROG Phone 3 hit 3,393. The iPhone 11 Pro was fastest with 3,500. On the GFXBench graphics test, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 scored 1,461 frames on the Aztec Ruins (High Tier) off-screen benchmark, compared to 1,455 for the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra and 1,657 frames for the iPhone 11 Pro. Overall, the Z Fold 2 offers smooth performance, but I noticed minor software glitches at times. The YouTube app view didn't change I switched screen modes at one point, but restarting the app resolved the problem. In terms of 5G, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 supports both mmWave and sub-6GHz flavors, so you should have no problems tapping into 5G networks where there is coverage. I didn't see the best results in central New Jersey. On AT&T's network the Galaxy Z Fold 2's download speed hit only 22 Mbps, but on T-Mobile it was a much higher 122 Mbps in the same location. Because the Z Fold 2 also supports Ultra Wide Band technology, you can leverage Samsung's Nearby Share features to quickly share files with other compatible devices, which thus far only includes the Note 20 Ultra. Galaxy Z Fold 2 review: battery life and charging (Image credit: Future) The Galaxy Z Fold 2 packs a 4,500 mAh battery, which should be able to get you through most of the day. The Galaxy Fold had a slightly smaller 4,380 mAh, so this is a step up. On our battery test, which involves continuous web surfing at 150 nits of screen brightness, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 lasted 10 hours and 10 minutes on the 60Hz display setting. That's not enough to make our list of best phone battery life, where are the handsets last longer than 11 hours. But given the size of the Z Fold 2's display that's pretty good endurance. As expected, the battery life dropped on the Z Fold 2 with the display set to 120Hz (adaptive), with the phone lasting 9 hours and 5 minutes. Anecdotally, the battery life on the Z Fold 2 is pretty solid. I started using the phone at 10 am and after a day of heavy usage it had about 18% juice left at 10 pm. The Z Fold 2 supports 25W fast charging, as well as fast wireless charging and PowerShare reverse charging. But we didn't see the best results in our testing. After 30 minutes the Z Fold 2 was at 46% and we would expect 50%. By comparison, the Note 20 Ultra hit 56% in the same amount of time. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 review: Verdict (Image credit: Future) Note that a Galaxy Z Fold 3 is rumored to launch this summer. It's expected to include a faster processor, S Pen support and perhaps an under-display camera, among other upgrades. So you'll probably want to hold off until mid-August until you make a move. Overall, though, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 is the quintessential example of a company listening to its customers and delivering a wide range of improvements they asked for. Even at its reduced $1,799 price, this is a phone that's still very much for early adopters. At least the Z Fold 2 seems a lot less like a prototype and more like a viable product. The front display on the Galaxy Z Fold 2 alone is a huge upgrade. I also really like Flex Mode and the versatility that gives this phone. Being able to prop up the device at various angles really makes the Z Fold 2 feel like a brand new type of device. And while the Mult-Active window multitasking requires a bit of a learning curve, it maximizes productivity. If you want a more powerful phone and better cameras, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is the better option, but Apple doesn't have anything nearly as innovative in its lineup to take on the Z Fold 2. An iPhone Flip could be on the way at some point, but we doubt it will be anytime soon. Overall, I am really impressed with what Samsung has accomplished with the Galaxy Z Fold 2. This is clearly the best foldable phone yet and a sign of great things to come in the category. By Lee Min-hyung Gen. Robert Abrams, U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) Commander Nothing says Computex like seemingly endless product announcements, rushing to cabs between keynotes, and copious amounts of stale coffee. Yep, Toms Hardware is in Taiwan to bring you all the highlights from Computex 2019. Heres all our coverage of the first day of Computex 2019. AMD Kicks Things Off With a Bang This year marked the first time Computex opened with a keynote address from an outside executive. AMD CEO Lisa Su used that opportunity to announce a technological menagerie of new CPUs and GPUs meant to help the company dethrone Intel and Nvidia. Intel and Nvidia Didnt Come Empty-Handed That isnt to say that AMD was the only company making big announcements at Computex 2019. (Or at least trying to capitalize on the presence of seemingly every tech journalist with a passport by making some bombastic claims.) Intel and Nvidia made some announcements of their own at the show: The Future of Mobile Computing AMD, Intel, and Nvidia had the desktop market pretty much covered on the first day of Computex 2019, even though the show doesn't officially start until tomorrow. But much of our technology is mobile these days, which is why Arm, Qualcomm, and their partners were at the show to reveal what they believe is the future of smartphones, tablets, and laptops. (Along with a few laptops featuring some new hardware from AMD and Nvidia, of course, to appeal to the gaming crowd.) The Best of the Rest Keep Up With Toms Hardware at Computex 2019 Were going to be in Taiwan all week to keep bringing you the best of what Computex 2019 has to offer. You can keep up with our coverage from the show floor by checking out the Computex page on our site as well as following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also want to know what you expect to see from Computex 2019, so join the discussion over in the Toms Hardware community forums! (Image credit: Allmy / Shutterstock) Updated, 5/28/19, 5:40am PT: So much for Huawei not ditching Android and Windows in favor of its operating system. TechRadar reported that Huawei plans to roll out its platform next month. "We did not want to bring the OS to the market as we had a strong relationship with Google and others and did not want to ruin the relationship," Alaa Elshimy, Managing Director and Vice President of Huawei Enterprise Business Group Middle East, told the outlet. "Now, we are rolling it out next month." TechRadar also said that Huawei expects Android apps to work with its operating system without requiring any work from developers. That could go a long way towards promoting the platform's viability--the quantity and quality of available apps is essential to any mobile offering. Huawei would still have other problems to solve, from its supply chain issues to it being barred from using industry standard technologies like Wi-Fi, but at least its phones would have apps. Other details about the rollout--like when exactly it will occur and whether or not it will be in a few markets to start--weren't provided. Huawei should reveal more soon. Original article, 5/21/19, 10:52am PT: Huawei is starting to seem like the smartphone industry's equivalent to a doomsday prepper. You know the type: stockpiles canned goods, owns more guns than a sporting goods store, hates reminding people the headpieces are made from tin foil instead of aluminum foil. That's essentially what Huawei did--presumably minus the bit about foils--by creating its own mobile and PC operating system in case it couldn't keep relying on Android and Windows. The difference here is that Huawei's apocalypse kinda-sorta happened. The U.S. Department of Commerce announced on May 15 that the company was put on the Entity List, which makes it far more difficult for it to do business with American companies. Much of the U.S. tech industry was quick to comply: within a few days, Google, Intel, Qualcomm, Broadcom, and Xilinx had reportedly told employees they would no longer supply Huawei. That's where Huawei's preparations come in. The company has reportedly stockpiled enough components to last three months, which should mitigate the loss incurred by being cut off from the American semiconductor industry. (To an extent--some analysts warned that Huawei wasn't nearly as ready to stop relying on U.S. companies as it thought.) It prepared for the loss of Android and Windows, too, by starting development on its own OS. Huawei told South China Morning Post that it didn't actually want to use its own OS. "Huawei does have backup systems but only for use in extenuating circumstances. We don't expect to use them, and to be honest, we don't want to use them. We fully support our partners' operating systems we love using them and our customers love using them. Android and Windows will always remain our first choices." But circumstances have been extenuated. SCMP reported that Huawei's work on its operating system began in 2012 after the U.S. started to investigate it and ZTE. Huawei Consumer Business Group CEO Richard Yu also told the German magazine Die Welt in March that the company had developed its own platform, though he also said it was "Plan B." Just like the doomsday prepper who hopes never to use their stash, Huawei didn't actually want to switch from American operating systems. It might not have to. The U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security announced on May 20 that it would issue a temporary license to let American companies do business with Huawei for 90 days. Tensions between the U.S. and China might have fallen by then, which could allow Huawei to keep using Android and Windows going forward. The company seems to be ready for it to go either way, at least for the (very) short term, thanks to these preparations. (Image credit: Microsoft) The 90s are making a comeback. Microsoft today announced that its remade the IntelliMouse, which debuted in 1996, as a Pro IntelliMouse thats meant to appeal to the gaming market. This new focus is immediately made clear by the Pro IntelliMouses design. It doesnt mar its predecessors legacy with a red-and-black color scheme or the sharp angles with which manufacturers insist on adorning many gaming products. Instead, the mouses textured, gradient-dominated look is simply reminiscent of Microsofts recent Xbox hardware. The Pro IntelliMouses hardware was also updated, of course, to improve upon the Classic IntelliMouse released in 2017. It now features a PixArt PAW3389PRO-MS sensor, a braided cable, and keys that are supposed to be more reliable than before. Because its 2019, the iconic tail light can also be customized to match your mood, your surroundings, or your custom setup. The rest of the Pro IntelliMouse is pretty tame: it features the same ergonomic design as its predecessors, offers just five buttons (including the scroll wheel button) and relies on a USB connection. Microsoft obviously wasnt targeting the high end of the market with its bajillion buttons, removable weights, and countless other fiddly options for the most serious gamers. There are people who have used some variation of the IntelliMouse for 23 years. It seems like the Pro IntelliMouse is less about bringing in a bunch of new buyers and more about making loyal customers happy that its better for gaming now. These folks know what they like, by golly, and would probably tell someone with another mouse to get off their lawns. Microsoft said the Pro IntelliMouse will ship in May in the U.S. and Canada; it will start to reach Europe and Asia in July. The mouse is available now for pre-order from the Microsoft Store for $60. Dell S2719dm monitor. (Image credit: Dell) A recent DigiTimes report said that some Taiwanese monitor makers have begun moving their production away from China. However, only 23% of Taiwans monitor shipments are expected to be affected by the U.S. tariff, according to DigiTimes. Moving Production out of China Digitimes Research expects the PC monitor industry to see limited impact of the U.S. tariffs because monitors are much easier to assemble than notebooks and other electronic devices. As such, moving production outside of China to avoid the U.S. tariffs is a much less daunting task. Furthermore, to minimize the tariffs impact, most of the monitor companies increased their inventory in the first quarter and have continued to do so in the second quarter. This should boost the monitor shipments by 10% this quarter compared to the same quarter last year. The shipments were expected to increase only 2% this quarter compared to last year. The monitor vendors are also closely watching the depreciation of the Chinese yuan and have started to accept transactions only in the US dollar. The U.S. government is also expected to hold a public hearing for the tariff on June 17, which means that the new tariffs may be officially implemented by the end of July. Impact On Largest Monitor Vendors TPV, the largest global PC monitor vendor, currently sells 18% of its monitors to the U.S., the highest percentage from all the Taiwan monitor companies. TPVs main production lines are in China, but it has started to rent production lines from Orion, a monitor maker from Bangkok. The company is not expected to rent these production lines for long, and it should soon start creating its own manufacturing facilities outside of China. Qisda, the second-largest monitor vendor has also started shifting production lines from China to Taiwan, Southeast Asia and the US. Moving to Taiwan will be a priority for Qisda, but the monitor vendor has also found 1-2 partners in the U.S., according to DigiTimes. The companys Taiwan facility is expected to begin production within 2-3 months. Only 30% of Foxconn Electronics (Hon Hai Precision Industry) and Wistrons monitor shipments have been impacted by the new tariffs. The two companies have not yet made any plans to move production out of China, as the shipments to the U.S. contribute to limited revenues for the them. Even so, the companies are expected to shift the related production out of China, if the trade war continues. The monitor companies havent been affected so much by the tariffs yet also because two of their main partners, HP and Dell, have been subsidizing 15-20% of the cost, giving them some time to make adjustments. Zotac, known for taking tech and making it small, brought a low-profile Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 to Computex here in Taipei. The GPU, appropriately entitled the Zotac Gaming GeForce GTX 1650 Low Profile, will release at the end of Q2. No price was revealed. The card needs no additional power connector and gets all of its power from the PCIe slot. While a standard bracket is attached, there's a low-profile bracket in the box for those who need one. Zotac Gaming GeForce GTX 1650 Low Profile Zotac Gaming RTX 2080 Ti ArcticStorm CUDA Cores 896 4352 Speed 1665 MHz Boost 1575 MHz Boost VRAM 4GB GDDR5 11GB GDDR6 Display Connectors DisplayPort, DVI, HDMI 3x DisplayPort, USB Type-C, HDMI (Image credit: Tom's Hardware) On the other end of the spectrum is the single-slot, water-blocked Zotac Gaming RTX 2080 Ti ArcticStorm for thin, powerful builds. At its Computex booth, Zotac showcased the card in a build by GGF. There's no firm release date - a representative said it's still soliciting community feedback on the card. But when it does release, I was told I could expect the card to cost around $1,599, though that could change. Local biohazard warning as the opioid epidemic worsens throughout the nation in one local community that's already struggling as the Meth Capital of the world. Kansas City Tribute To Troops Crew members of USS Kansas City visit ship's namesake city Some crew member of the USS Kansas City visited their ship's namesake Monday."I think we just want to belong to something. For us to be part of a crew on a ship with a namesake city like Kansas City is wonderful. Talking Kansas City Consequences Retired KCPD sergeant remembers young crime victims KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A family's promise to never forget some of the youngest victims of crime has now become their Memorial Day ritual. The holiday is always tough for the Bernards. "I think that's the best way you can describe it: it's bittersweet," Marla Bernard said. Never-Trumper And American War Hero Earns Local High Praise and Honor John McCain's son will accept Truman award for his father INDEPENDENCE, Mo. (AP) - The son of U.S. Sen. John McCain will accept the Truman Public Service Award in his late father's name. The Independence Examiner the city of Independence bestows the award each year to someone in public life who followed President Harry Truman's traits such as ability, honesty and integrity. Thanking Old School Vets "Hard to explain" Heartland Honor Flight brings out tears, emotions for local Veterans The Heartland Honor Flight brings back raw emotion as Veterans visit their Memorials in Washington D.C. Show-Me Fearsome Fish Fearsome invasive fish found for first time in Missouri JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Missouri conservation officials say a particularly troublesome invasive fish has been found in the state for the first time. An angler caught a northern snakehead in a ditch within the St. Francis River levee in April in Dunklin County. The St. Kansas Payback For Prisoners Kansas has paid 2 of 5 claims for wrongful incarceration WICHITA, KS (AP) - One year after Kansas lawmakers agreed to compensate people who were wrongfully convicted and incarcerated, the state has paid two claims, is negotiating one and is fighting two others. Troops Take Part In Kansas City Creativity & Healing KC area veteran says painting 'literally saved my life' LEAWOOD, Kan. - Gary Walker thought his future was set in stone. He made the commitment to serve his country with the U.S. Air Force right after meeting his wife in high school. But suddenly, what he had envisioned for his life came to an abrupt end. Weather Science Right Now Severe weather possible Tuesday afternoon, evening Some storms are expected to fire up Monday evening, but most of the area will remain dry. We'll see increasing clouds on Tuesday. A cluster of strong to severe... For holiday news watchers we offer a glimpse and highlight peek at our local news scene for right now . . .And this is thefor right now . . . AND WE'RE BACK!!! Record Breaking Kansas City May Rain Crime Fighting & Myth Busting KC Crime Lab is not like your favorite CSI show The kind of crime scene investigations that fascinate television viewers on shows like CSI and NCIS are taking place every day at the Kansas City Police Crime Lab.Three fourths of the employees of the crime lab are women, and getting a job there is not easy. Real Estate Season Winning Midwest Commercial Hall of Fame: Copaken Brooks' Jon Copaken Each year, Midwest Real Estate News highlights the successful careers of the region's top commercial professionals in its Midwest Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame issue. This year, we are also running these profiles online. Today, we look at the success enjoyed by Jon Copaken, principal with Copaken Brooks in Kansas City, Missouri. Kansas Hog Wild Pack of wild hogs vandalizing farms in rural Kansas BLUE MOUND, KS (KCTV) -- A pack of wild vandals are terrorizing properties in farming communities in Linn and Bourbon counties. But the culprits aren't what most people would expect. For years, Donnie Rhynerson and other farmers have noticed them invading his farm, hiding out along the fence row -- a pack of wild pigs rooting around in his pasture in search of grubs and a cool place to wallow. Show-Me How To Free Your Mind Washington University graduates its first class of students in prison PACIFIC - The graduation ceremony was like any other - tearful family members, caps and gowns, "Pomp and Circumstance" - only with added security. The first 10 graduates of the Washington University Prison Education Project received diplomas Wednesday in the visiting room at the Missouri Eastern Correctional Center state prison for men. Blue Springs Taps New Brew Tap List | Wind Shift Brewing Is Open in Blue Springs Wind Shift Brewing (3421 NW Jefferson St., Suite B) opened this weekend in Blue Springs, Missouri. The new brewery from Tony and Lynne DiPlacito is serving an American Pilsner, oatmeal brown, a coconut coffee porter and double IPA. Cinder Block Brewery's cider is on tap as well. Soggy Tonight Coming Up Strong storms possible Tuesday evening Hide Transcript Show Transcript DEVASTATION. TERRIBLE. NICK: IT HAS BEEN A VIOLENT TWO-WEEK STRETCH FOR THE PLANES. DONNA: AND THERE IS MORE TO COME. WE TALKED ABOUT THE FACT THE WARNING SYSTEMS WE HAVE, THEY DON'T ALWAYS TO PEN ON THE LAM WHAT YOU'RE GOING TO HEAR OUTSIDE BECAUSE I GUESS WE'RE GOING TO HEAR SIRENS TONIGHT THAT WE'RE ALSO GOING TO HEAR THE WEATHER RADIOS. Right nowbrigs us double back to the work week in grand fashion and with a bit of news on DD-list celebrity life:Closer to home, here are more than a handful of news links for right now . . .is the song of the day and this is thefor right now. Kelsey Smith's parents continue to push for federal law OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - U.S. Congress members from both parties and chambers are renewing a push to pass the Kelsey Smith Act, named after a Johnson County teen who was kidnapped and killed in 2007. The bill, which requires cellphone companies to turn over device location information in emergency situations, was first introduced in 2009. While mobile phones are basically for keeping track of the plebs, here's sketchy legislation that will make the process even more useful for authorities . . . Using a tragic story of a young lady murdered not so long ago . . . Read more: Missouri's New Anti-Abortion Law Violates Women's Religious Liberty In some primitive cultures, when a young girl or woman becomes pregnant, she can be forced against her will by the tribe's male elders to bear the child, even if she has been raped. Welcome to Missouri. A think piece that we may not agree with but can't help admit is artfully written and provocative. In fairness, here's a progressive take on recent abortion crackdown rules coming out of Jeff City: Members of the Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering union branch of the KCTU protest in front of the town hall building in Ulsan, South Gyeongsang Province, Tuesday, in advance of the general meeting of stockholders that was held in the building later that day. / Yonhap By Kim Jae-heun Police are set to recommend the prosecution seek arrest warrants for six leaders of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), for staging multiple violent rallies in front of the National Assembly between March 27 and April 3. Yeongdeungpo Police Station said Tuesday that it had asked prosecutors to request a local court to issue arrest warrants for the six. They are accused of damaging objects for public use, trespassing in a public building, interfering with public duty and obstructing traffic. The six allegedly tore down a fence at the Assembly on Yeouido, Seoul, in an attempt to enter the government compound during protests against the extension of the introduction of the flexible work hour system. They also used violence against police officers during clashes. Police officers have questioned 74 KCTU members, including 33 who were detained on the spot. KCTU Chairman Kim Myung-hwan was also detained at the time and included in the subjects for questioning; but he has since refused to comply with two police summons. Police said several leaders had prepared tools to use as weapons in advance and thus their violent protests were planned. Prior to the request for arrest warrants, officers searched the homes of the six leaders. The KCTU claimed in a statement that the warrant requests were a "preset conclusion" by law enforcement authorities to suppress union activities. This is the second time this month that arrest warrants have been sought for KCTU members over illegal activities at rallies. Last week, a warrant was sought for a member of the KCTU branch of Hyundai Heavy Industries for allegedly assaulting police officers while trying to enter the company building in downtown Seoul, May 22. However, the Seoul Central District Court dismissed the request, saying it was not necessary, as he was unlikely to flee or destroy evidence and he was not a high-ranking member of the union. Twelve members of the union branches at Hyundai Heavy and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) were detained at the time for interfering with public duties and disobeying an order to disperse. Missouri governor activates National Guard to help fight flooding Missouri Gov. Mike Parson activated the Missouri National Guard on Monday to help fight flooding."As our state continues to recover from severe storms & damaging flooding, and local resources deplete, I am confident in the Guard's capabilities to make a difference at this critical time," Parson said in a tweet. Important to remember that members of the armed services help on a great deal on the domestic front as well . . . Despite some important farmer complaints against Army Corps of Engineers . Read more: Most travelers set their satnavs for the graceful highways of the previous dependables - North America, Australia, and New Seeland - and with the smart reason (not least the savings offered on dear accommodation), however, those willing to navigate the potholes of roads less cosmopolitan might notice richer rewards elsewhere. For life lovers: African nation You'll want a 4WD to tackle the preternatural landscapes of the African nation, wherever droning cities, stark desert scenes, and wildlife-rich national parks are unit amongst the highlights. fill up your tour with spectacular drives through the shape-shifting sand dunes of the desert and a stop-off to eyeball the prodigious oxidization shipwrecks on the Skeleton Coast. A word of caution: Namibia's roads are unit principally loose gravel and there is unit usually giant distances between cities, thus forward designing is important, as well as camp web site bookings. For hardcore hikers: New Seeland Travelers usually proclaim New Seeland to be the simplest destination for a camper van vacation - and it's arduous to argue otherwise. From shiny glaciers to wave-lashed shores, its landscapes bring a precise grandeur to road visits, whereas its hiking trails and the legion of campsites build the scenery eminently accessible. For the geographically challenged: Chile It's arduous to lose your approach on a camper van vacation in Chile, wherever the foolproof Pan-American road runs virtually straight down the spine of the country, dispatching road trippers to vibrant colonial cities, arid deserts and abundant national parks. It's not all regarding natural wonders. The 3364km Pan-American conjointly serves up swaggering seaboard cities within the variety of Iquique, La Serena, and Valdivia, and, of course, the capital, Santiago, behind that loom the lofty peaks of the chain of mountains. For fans of the cold: Canadian province, Canada Icefields road manages to distill virtually everything that's epic regarding the Canadian geographical region into a brisk 230-km camper van route. From sparkling glaciers to wilding meadows, covering mountains to cascading waterfalls, this road packs in some serious scenery. Before you come back the camper van, take a detour to the arenaceous rock hoodoos of Alberta's Badlands, associate alien-looking landscape wherever several the rarest archosaurian fossils famous to humanity are found. For the hedonists: geographical region Australia Like native bear bears to eucalyptus trees, road trippers have long been drawn to Australia's geographical region, wherever indulgent surf cities, vibrant coral reefs, and paradisiacal beaches offer the pretext for camper van capers. Buckle up in Sydney, wherever the booming market in used camper vans ought to turn out a reliable set of wheels for those wanting to shop for. because the theater disappears within the rear-view, the geographical region unfurls to reveal spectacular national parks, unconventional islands and hard-partying cities like Brisbane, Cairns and Surfers Paradise. See Now: The U.S. had the highest number of Most Wanted properties, dominating the Hotels.com Loved By Guests Awards 2018 In the 30+ years since the disaster zone was evacuated, rare and endangered animals are flourishing. In 1986, the stuff of disaster movies and dystopian nightmares came to life with the fire and explosion at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in northern Ukraine. The disaster released 400 times more radioactive material than was released by the bombing of Hiroshima, making large swaths of surrounding areas unsafe for human habitation. Today, the inadvertently poetic Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant Zone of Alienation, also known as the Exclusion Zone, covers 1,000 square miles (2,600 square kilometers) in Ukraine and 800 square miles (2,100 square kilometers) in Belarus. Prior to the accident, the region was the home to some 120,000 people living in the cities of of Chernobyl and Pripyat. Now with just a few handfuls of human holdouts, the ghost towns and outskirts are enjoying the most ironic of comebacks wildlife is flourishing in the absence of mankind. The Animals Take Over We have covered this before, first when researchers found an abundant mammal community, regardless of the radiation. They found a rare Przewalski's horse and European lynx, which were previously gone from the region but have now returned. They also found a European brown bear in the exclusion zone. European brown bears have not been seen in that region for more than a century. Wild horses in Chernobyl. Kate Siomkina We wrote about it again when other research found that the ghost towns had become wonderlands for gray wolves (Canis lupus), with population densities in the Exclusion Zone exceeding those in uncontaminated reserves in the region. And now, the flourishing of nature has become so pronounced that Belarus has started offering wildlife tours. Touring Chernobyl The Belarus part of the zone is called the Palieski state radioecological reserve, and as a story in The Guardian reports, the reserve claims to be Europes largest experiment in rewilding, and the unlikely beneficiaries of nuclear disaster have been the wolves, bison and bears that now roam the depopulated landscape, and the 231 (of the countrys 334) bird species that can also be found here. Leading the tours, which began in December of last year, is eco-tour company APB-Birdlife Belarus, which calls Chernobyl an accidental wildlife sanctuary. From their site: "The accident at Chernobyl nuclear power plant resulted in complete abandonment of a huge territory in Belarus as well as land on the Ukrainian side, creating the largest ever experiment as to what nature does when people leave. 30 years later the area is the nearest that Europe has to a wilderness and gives key lessons on how wildlife doesnt need us! The zone is a classic example of an involuntary park. Its beauty cannot be overstated." Guardian writer Tom Allan went on one of these tours, and talks about how the usual animals that commingle with humans like sparrows and rooks have been given way to the more wild things, like eagles, lynx, and wolves. The Effects of Radiation For humans visiting the area, the radiation levels are said to be less than one would be exposed to on a transatlantic flight. But how are the animals who live their lives there managing it? Allan notes that some research has found signs of fallout-related disease and mutation, while other studies, like the ones cited above, and anecdotal evidence suggest large populations of mammals in the zone. Chistyakosha Allan writes, We dont yet have the full picture, according to Viktar Fenchuk, project manager for the Wilderness Conservation Program in Belarus, and one of the countrys most senior conservationists. The reserve could be an ecological trap, where animals move in [...] and then develop health problems, he tells me. But the evidence so far is that on a population level, the effect of radiation is not visible. Only time will tell the fate of the zones more recent inhabitants, but in the meantime, it certainly provides some sobering food for thought. Allan notes that nearly 350,000 people in total were evacuated from the zone. And while the number of deaths associated with the disaster is contested and likely ongoing the accident was obviously catastrophic. But that wildlife is thriving is poignant. And especially in light of the huge (largely ignored) UN report finding that mankind's voracious habits are leading to an imminent collapse of nature. The authors say that one million animal and plant species are now facing extinction, many within decades, more than ever before in human history and this doesnt end well for our species, either. But in one disaster-struck region, at least, wildlife is having a heyday. What may be a Zone of Alienation for humans has become an ironic haven for animals. And it begs the question: What if in the end, our dystopian nightmare becomes a dream come true for the rest of nature? Pe3k | Abandoned amusement park in Chernobyl exclusion zone. Streetfilms shows how a road can in fact be many things, not just a place for cars. When our kids were small, we used to close off the street every June at the end of school for a street party. It was wonderful, we got to know everyone on the street, and the kids all got to play together in the roadway. It was also just one day a year. In the Netherlands, lots of people get to do this all the time; they live on Woonerfs woonerven or "living streets" (more accurately, living yards). Dylan Reid tried to define it in Spacing magazine: In essence, a woonerf is intended to be a front yard for the residents who live on it. Cars should be rare, local, and restricted to walking speed. Often the street is configured to be narrow and a bit awkward so that cars have to be careful manoeuvring in it. Parked cars are sometimes arranged to deliberately contribute to this awkwardness. There are no sidewalk curbs restricting pedestrians to the side of the street, and signage indicates that pedestrians have priority and playing children should be expected. Life on a Dutch Woonerf (Living Street) from STREETFILMS on Vimeo. Clarence Eckerson of Streetfilms recently visited one in Utrecht, and it looked very much like our street party, with the occasional car creeping through, in exactly the way that Reid described. Clarence describes it with envy: When I arrived the street was full of neighbors and children and they wanted to talk to me about their lovely street. But this is not something exceptional as over 2 million Dutch people live on play/living streets. So take a gander but be warned: you will want the same thing for your block. There is really no reason one couldn't do this in North America, with houses close together opening right onto the road, with the street being your front yard. People still have parking. But as Dylan Reid noted, it doesn't happen here because of all those other regulations that "specify that all new roads, even laneways, have to have 6 metres (20 feet) of unobstructed width for fire trucks, and fire departments generally insist on a straight line for speed. Its hard to give a street a cozy, safe 'living yard' feel with that much straight open space." Really, it is time for a rethink about our roads, our garbage and fire trucks, and our need for speed. That woonerf looks like a lot of fun. Walking posts are all the rage recently in Trenton. New Police Director Coleys first official act was to implement walking posts downtown and in several high crime areas in the city. These walking posts were implemented and announced as some grand new scheme to offset the violent crime in the city. I assume that because every decision by the police department must always have reducing violent crime as its number one priority. In researching the effectiveness of walking posts, I found a number of arguments in favor of walking posts. As you read the comments of politicians and community activists, they spout off these same beliefs. These include better interaction with the police and community, officers getting a much better understanding of the lay of the land, and the decrease of citizen complaints and frivolous lawsuits. While none of these have actually been proven, these are the reasons why politicians and community activists insist on the police department creating these posts. This is not the first time that a police director has initiated walking posts in the city. Director Joe Santiagos first official act was to implement walking posts downtown. Sounds familiar. He ended up obtaining horses and creating a Metro Unit that involved officers on walking posts downtown and on Broad Street mainly for the safety of state workers that came in and out of Trenton. And as he expanded this unit, and eliminated any type of street crime enforcement, the gang culture continued to expand until the violence exploded in 2005 with 31 homicides. He eventually realized the importance of street crime enforcement and created the TAC Unit. I assume Newark is full of walking posts since both of these police directors came from Newark and from what I gather, worked together in leadership there. Its possible that having all of these walking posts is part of the reason that Newark is considered among the most dangerous cities in the country. In reading about the walking posts, my first question was where did the department find the manpower for this initiative? I know that Mayor Reed Gusciora had discussed laying off cops during the most recent budget crisis so I figured new cops were not hired. Also, by the Mayor improperly giving raises to the various department directors, I again figured that whatever money had been available did not go for the hiring of new cops. So, where did the manpower come from? The Trenton Police Department has always understood the importance of having street crime enforcement. During the Tony Mack administration, he wanted to disband the TAC Unit in favor of utilizing them for walking posts. Luckily, Acting Director Chris Doyle realized how ludicrous that was and went to the County Prosecutor for assistance. Sadly, Mayor Macks chosen Police Director, Ralph Rivera, eliminated the TAC Unit and the city once again experienced an explosion in violent crime with the homicide record being broken in 2013 at 38 murders. Over the last few years, the Street Crime Unit has provided the front line force to offset violent crime. In addition, the Violent Crime Unit was created to target violent offenders throughout the city. Both units have shown how important they are to the safety of the citizenry by arresting and assisting in the long term incarceration of some of the most violent individuals in the city. These units are well known throughout the area and have worked hand in hand with federal, state and county forces in putting away the most violent. The disbandment of the Violent Crime Unit and the downsizing of the Street Crime Unit to create walking posts is a travesty. These are some of the best officers in the department, who have made names for themselves as some of the best street crime officers in the area. To put these officers back in uniform, to walk a post, is a waste of resources. I am certain the Trenton leadership recognizes this and should have expressed this to someone who doesnt, like Director Coley. As crime rises with four homicides so far in the month of May, and the most recent mass shooting of ten people at the Ramoneros Liquor and Bar, it is my belief that those wanting to commit crime now know that units created to stop them have been eliminated or minimized. Bad guys know that walking cops cant truly suppress crime. And those cops that actually did suppress and target violent crime, are now seen downtown walking a beat. Councilman Blakeley in a recent article stated he wants to bring in the State Police and the National Guard to help deal with the violence. Why doesnt he insist on having officers that actually target these types of violent individuals instead of walking posts? It is my hope, and Im sure the hope of all the law abiding citizens of Trenton, that there is more to Director Coley than walking posts. While the assumptions of walking posts are used as the basis of community policing, in actuality, it is a small component. Walking posts are most effective in business zones as the officers provide an overall presence to keep patrons free from harassment, and businesses free of any issues. The optimum would be bike cops who would be able to patrol a larger area while still maintaining the presence. But walking posts are useful if handled as another tool in the patrol officers toolbox. First of all, to offset the violent crime, a new deployment plan should be implemented. The current one was implemented under Director Santiago which is now seventeen years old. Much has changed during that time period including a massive layoff of over 100 officers. Within the new deployment plan, temporary walking posts should be assigned to every patrol unit within each of their designated areas. This provides an opportunity for every patrol unit to walk every neighborhood in their assigned areas during downtime within their regular patrol functions. The city would get the best of both worlds and more neighborhoods would be able to interact with the officers. Having officers on foot patrols strictly in high crime areas does nothing for enforcement. The only activity that takes place with having officers walking beats in high crime areas is displacement. Displacement is when criminals move to another neighborhood to avoid the police presence in their neighborhoods. Studies have consistently shown that while crime in the walking posts decreases, crime rises in nearby neighborhoods. And with todays technology, that is limited as well. The gang members and drug dealers just watch as officers walk toward the other end of the street, to conduct business. There are other reasons, aside from displacement, that make having full time walking posts ineffective and dangerous. The first, clearing radio calls becomes more difficult because of having less officers handling calls. With more foot patrols means less officers available to respond to incidents. In critical incidents, what happens to the foot patrols when officers are needed in a hurry? Secondly, the crime areas are numerous and are spread out throughout the city. Who determines which area deserves walking posts? And what about those areas that have actual high tax paying residents? Are they not worthy of having a walking post? I understand the belief about foot patrols in high crime areas, but wouldnt more aggressive policing tactics be better than foot patrols? And finally and the most important, having officers walking posts in high crime areas at night is a travesty. I am actually quite surprised that the unions have allowed this to take place. By walking at night in high crime areas, cops are potentially more easily targeted for ambush attacks. It is my understanding that one call has already been received in dispatch by an individual threatening to cause harm to one of the officers walking a post. What will Director Coley and the police leadership say to the parents, husband, or wife, and children of that officer that is murdered by a sniper as they walk at night in a high crime area? Your loved one was a hero? Because I am sure they will not take blame for the murder of that officer. (CNN) The Chinese government has slammed Washington for engaging with Taipei and ordered the Trump administration to cease diplomatic engagements with the island, after a highly unusual public meeting between top officials from the U.S. and Taiwan. In May, U.S. national security adviser John Bolton met with one of Taiwan's top defense officials, National Security Council Secretary-General David Lee, who was visiting the U.S. Taiwan's official news agency CNA said it was the first meeting between the top security advisers of both governments since 1979, when Washington severed formal ties with Taipei. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said Monday that Beijing "deplored and strongly objected" to the meeting and urged the US to stop "having official exchanges or upgrading substantive relations with Taiwan." Taiwan and China were separated at the end of a bloody civil war in 1949 and officially the US only has official diplomatic relations with Beijing. "The one-China principle is the political basis for China-U.S. relations," Lu said. "We are firmly against the U.S. engaging in any official contact with Taiwan in whatever form and under whatever pretext. "We also stand resolutely against any attempt to create 'two Chinas' or 'one China, one Taiwan.' This is our clear and consistent position." As the China and U.S. engage in a tense trade war, however, Washington has been building closer ties with Taiwan, the island that China views as a renegade province. On Saturday, Taiwan announced it had renamed its unofficial embassy in Washington from the Coordination Council for North American Affairs to the Taiwan Council for US Affairs, after discussions with Washington. That marked the first time a Taiwan government organization had been renamed to include the words "Taiwan" and "U.S." "Really got to love the new name," Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said on the ministry's official Twitter. And in March, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen announced she wanted to purchase advanced new weapons from U.S. President Donald Trump's administration. Beijing's comments came as Taiwan began its annual Han Kuang Exercise on Tuesday. The military drills are aimed at ensuring the island's readiness for an invasion by communist China's People's Liberation Army (PLA). President Tsai watched as the air force landed F-16V aircraft on a highway in eastern Changhua county, an exercise designed to test the military's refueling and rearming capacity if major airfields on the island were occupied or destroyed by the PLA. Hundreds of Taiwan citizens flocked to the roadside to watch the drill, waving flags and displaying banners showing their support for the island's airforce. This story was first published on CNN.com. "China rages against Bolton meeting with Taiwan as anti-invasion drills begin on the island." In this May 12, 2019, photo, farmers replant rice seedlings in a field in Chongsan-ri, North Korea. South Korea vowed to move quickly on its plans to provide $8 million of humanitarian aid to North Korea while it also considers sending food to the country that says it is suffering its worst drought in decades. AP-Yonhap By Kim Yoo-chul The unification ministry plans to complete the delivery of $8 million of humanitarian aid to international organizations such as the World Food Program (WFP) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) by next month. "After the completion of the due diligence process, the ministry plans to finalize the transfer for the planned $8 million to WFP and UNICEF by the end of the first half of this year," a ministry official told reporters in a briefing. "The fund will be used to help finance a WFP nutrition support program for children, pregnant women, a child healthcare project in the North and other North Korean citizens in need." The official said a review committee will begin discussions to fix terms of details as the funds will come from the Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund. The plan requires approval from the Unification Minister Kim Yeon-chul and the Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Promotion Council. "The ministry will join forces with local NGOs to execute humanitarian aid at an early date, given the urgency of the worsening food situation in the North," according to the official. Regarding a question over the possibility of providing rice and other food to North Korean citizens, Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Ko Min-jung said neither of these humanitarian-oriented donations will directly provide rice to North Korea. The humanitarian assistance plan was the result of consultations with the United States because Washington remains reluctant in providing sanctions easing given its repeated reaffirmation to pursuing North Korea's fully verified denuclearization. U.S. President Donald Trump supported the South's proposal of offering humanitarian aid to the impoverished North. The unification ministry official said the South is in discussions with the North over South Korean businesspeople visiting the Gaeseong Industrial Complex in North Korea, which has been shuttered since 2016. "Seoul is trying hard to make the businesspeople's visit to the complex actually happen. However, we don't know whether we will announce the latest updates about the efforts anytime soon," according to the official. The humanitarian aid campaign comes in the wake of an earlier United Nations assessment that 10 million North Koreans lack reliable access to nutritious food. Cheong Wa Dae officials said they are engaged in "working-level" preparations toward sending a separate shipment of food to the North, while at the same time "continuing to collect public opinion to secure their support." Rep. Na Kyung-won, floor leader of the main opposition Liberty Korea Party, speaks during a party meeting at the National Assembly, Tuesday. Yonhap By Park Ji-won Conservative parties stepped up political offensives over a recent meeting between President Moon Jae-in's confidant Yang Jung-chul and National Intelligence Service (NIS) chief Suh Hoon, Tuesday, wary of Suh's possible intervention in domestic politics. Rep. Na Kyung-won, floor leader of the main opposition Liberty Korea Party (LKP), indicated the party may file a complaint against Suh with the prosecution, claiming he may have violated the NIS law by possibly sharing confidential information with Yang, chief of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) think tank Institute for Democracy. After their meeting was reported by an online media outlet, both Yang and Suh argued it was a private meeting among acquaintances without a political purpose. The NIS law prohibits the spy chief from participating in any political activities. "Suh has met with a key figure of the ruling camp. It is an apparent move for the spy chief to get involved in the upcoming general elections," Na said during a party meeting Tuesday. The move came after online media outlet The Fact reported Monday that Suh had a one-on-one meeting with Yang for several hours in a restaurant in Seoul on May 21. It did not specify what was discussed. The report immediately sparked controversy in political circles over whether Suh's meeting with Yang was acceptable or not. The DPK and Yang have been claiming it was a private meeting while opposition parties have raised suspicions about Suh's possible intervention in domestic politics. Yang, former public relations and press secretary for former President Roh Moo-hyun, as well as Moon's confidant, has been under the spotlight recently after he became the leader of the ruling party's think tank on May 14. The media has been focused on the politician and his potential role in the upcoming April 2020 general elections amid speculation that he could set up the election team within the DPK think tank and support Moon's loyalists. He is known to be running the election campaign for the DPK, as he did for Moon in the last presidential election campaign, but it is an unprecedented role for the head of the DPK think tank. Adding to the LKP, Rep. Oh Shin-hwan, newly elected floor leader of the minor opposition Bareunmirae Party (BMP), joined the criticism saying Suh may have intervened in domestic politics by meeting the chief of the ruling camp's election campaign at a critical time, and demanded an explanation from Suh. Rep. Lee Hye-hoon, head of the Assembly's Intelligence Committee, pledged to hold a committee meeting early as possible and summon Suh to ask him about the meeting. Some DPK members also criticized Yang for making such a hasty decision to meet Suh as a confidant of Moon and the leader of the de facto election campaign for the DPK at a critical time when Yang just took a political post. The progressive Justice Party and Party for Democracy Peace also criticized the meeting claiming, "If it turns out to be true, it is against the spirit of the candlelit revolution." Some LKP members held a street protest in front of the National Intelligence Service office in Seoul on Tuesday afternoon to criticize Suh for having such a meeting with Yang. Cheong Wa Dae has declined to make an official comment on the matter for two consecutive days. shalender@tribune.com New Delhi, May 27 The Central Information Commission (CIC) has directed the Reserve Bank of India to disclose the list of big loan defaulters it had sent to banks for resolution. The CICs directive came while deciding on a plea by Lucknow-based activist Nutan Thakur, who had based her RTI application on some media reports that RBI deputy governor Viral Acharya in a lecture in 2017 had said accounts of some loan defaulters have been sent to banks for resolution. The IAC (internal advisory committee) has recommended that the RBI should initially focus on stressed assets which are large, material and aged, in that they have eluded a viable resolution plan despite being classified as NPAs (non-performing assets) for a significant amount of time, Acharya had said. The RBI had accordingly directed banks to file insolvency applications against 12 large accounts comprising about 25% of the total NPAs, he had said. The RBI has now advised the banks to resolve some of the other accounts by December 2017; if the banks fail to put in place a viable resolution plan within the timelines, these cases also will be referred for resolution under the IBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code), the RBI deputy governor had said. In her RTI application, Thakur wanted to know from the RBI the list of loan defaulters that was referred to in the lecture and the records of note sheets and correspondence regarding these accounts. The RBI had refused to provide the details to her by calling them confidential information, following which she approached the CIC. PTI Central Information Commissions directive shalender@tribune.com Mumbai, May 27 Anil Ambanis Reliance Group will sell its FM radio business by divesting its entire stake in BIG FM Radio to Jagran Prakashan-owned Music Broadcast Ltd (MBL) for an estimated value of Rs 1,200 crore, an official statement Monday said. Reliance Capital and Reliance Land (a part of Reliance Capital Group) will divest their entire equity stake in Reliance Broadcast Network Ltd (RBNL) to Music Broadcast Ltd (MBL). The move would help in reducing the loan burden of the Reliance group firms, it added. This transaction is part of our overall strategy to reduce exposure in non-core businesses and will reduce our debt by an estimated Rs 1,200 crore, the statement Reliance Capital CFO Amit Bapna said in a statement. RBNL operates under the brand name BIG FM Radio network with 58 stations across the country. PTI shalender@tribune.com New Delhi, May 27 The Commerce Ministry is considering a major export promotion scheme to ensure expeditious refund of central and state taxes and levies to boost shipments in the wake of global challenges at trade front, an official said. The proposal is part of a 100-day action plan prepared by the ministry for the new government which will take office on May 30. A new export promotion scheme has become necessary as the existing merchandise exports for India scheme is being opposed by the US in the World Trade Organisation, stating it is not in compliance with global trade norms, the official said. The new scheme could be named as Central and State Taxes and Levies Scheme. According to the proposal, the new scheme would ensure refund of all un-rebated central and state levies and taxes imposed on inputs that are consumed in exports of all sectors. Initiatives by Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu has helped in taking exports to an all-time high of $331 billion in 2018-19. PTI editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Panchkula, May 27 A DJ had a miraculous escape after an unidentified person allegedly fired at him from the stage late last night at the Gymkhana Club in Sector 1 near Saketri village here. A team from the MDC police station reached the spot and recovered two empty shells of a revolver. Lalit Singh, a resident of Sector 19, Chandigarh, in his complaint to the police, said he had gone to the Gymkhana Club at 8 pm along with his friend Rocky, a DJ, to attend a wedding function. He said he was on the stage when a person came and started abusing and thrashing him. He said the suspect pushed him off the stage, causing injuries to him. He said after this, the suspect fired several rounds into the air and then at the DJ. He also submitted a video of the incident, which he recorded on his mobile phone. The police have registered a case under Sections 188, 285, 323, 506 and 34 of the IPC and Sections 25, 54 and 59 of the Arms Act against the unidentified person and investigations are on. The police have also booked another DJ Amit for playing music till late at night. The police also questioned guests about the unidentified suspect. They are suspecting a feud between the DJ and the suspect. The police are also checking the CCTV footage of the incident at the club. From left are Amb. Joseph DeTrani, former U.S. special envoy for the six-party talks with North Korea, Dr. Morton Halperin, former director of the policy planning staff at the U.S. Department of State and Prof. Moon Chung-in of Yonsei University who is also special adviser to President Moon Jae-in participating at a seminar titled "Making a Breakthrough for the North Korean Stalemate in the Post-Hanoi Era," held at the Four Seaons Hotel Seoul in central Seoul, Tuesday. The Seoul-based think tank East Asia Foundation organized the seminar. Korea Times photo by Jung Da-min By Jung Da-min The United States and North Korea should resume their denuclearization negotiations soon if they want to make a breakthrough that would save February's Hanoi summit from being another failure in the 25 years of negotiation history between the two countries, long-time North Korea watchers based in Washington said at a seminar held in Seoul, Tuesday. "I don't think the Hanoi summit was a failure but it gave us the very clarity on the ongoing issues that have to be pursued," said Amb. Joseph DeTrani, former U.S. special envoy for the six-party talks with North Korea, at the seminar titled "Making a Breakthrough for the North Korean Stalemate in the Post-Hanoi Era," held at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. "The point of this session here is, 'Don't walk away like we did in the past.'" The Seoul-based East Asia Foundation think tank organized the seminar inviting DeTrani and Dr. Morton Halperin, former director of policy planning staff at the U.S. Department of State, for the debate moderated by Prof. Moon Chung-in of Yonsei University who is also special adviser to President Moon Jae-in. DeTrani and Halperin both said the Hanoi summit was not a failure but rather a natural part of the dynamics and fluctuating situation on the Korean Peninsula that could again lead to another round of negotiations with enough willingness and preparation by the two sides. "[The Hanoi summit results] should be the basis for the negotiations moving forward the United States and DPRK, that is the framework that should be within the hard case at the Singapore communication that the goal is the denuclearization [of the Korean Peninsula] and complete change of the relationship," Halperin said. monicakchauhan@gmail.com New Delhi, May 27 Civility seems to be on the wane not only in public places, but also in flights. In a latest case of sexual offence against woman, a 24-year-old man from Kerala flying from Jeddah to New Delhi unzipped his pants on being stopped by a lady cabin staff from lighting a cigarette. The man has been identified as Abdul Shahid Shamsudeen, a resident of Kottayam in Kerala. The accused was on board a Saudi Airlines flight when the incident took place. According to airport sources in Delhi, Shamsudeen first verbally abused the woman crew member and refused to stop from lighting a cigarette. "The man created a ruckus. When the woman cabin staff called her colleagues for assistance, the man allegedly unzipped his pants and made obscene gestures," a source said. After the flight landed in Delhi, the crew members reported the incident to the airport operations control centre following which the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel were informed. The security personnel then detained the accused and took him to the IGI Airport police station. He was handed over to the Delhi Police for further legal action. The accused has been booked under Sections 354 (molestation) and 509 (using word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). IANS harinder@tribunemail.com RAHUL Gandhis offer to resign from the post of Congress president, taking entire responsibility for the 2019 Lok Sabha poll rout, evoked a sense of deja vu. Back in 2014, after the Modi wave decimated the Grand Old Party, then Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and then vice-president Rahul had declared their intent to step down from their posts. The Congress Working Committee (CWC) had not only rejected the offer, but also reposed faith in their leadership. On Saturday, the familiar script was played out in the case of the Gandhi scion, who was authorised by the CWC to carry out an overhaul of the party at all levels. What was different this time was Rahuls tough talk as he targeted certain senior leaders for putting the interests of their sons ahead of the interest of the party. In his line of fire were Chief Ministers Ashok Gehlot and Kamal Nath and former Finance Minister P Chidambaram. Taking an uncompromising stand, Rahul also asked the CWC to choose a new leader from outside the Gandhi family. However, the proposal was unanimously turned down. Now the ball is in Rahuls court. It is his job to lift the Congress out of the morass in which it finds itself. He can bank on two veterans with a distinguished track record Manmohan Singh and Capt Amarinder Singh who can be considered for the top post. With the party doing quite well in Kerala and Punjab, its these states that Rahul should zero in on for nurturing a new crop of leadership. Nothing less than a purge will do. The party will have to act ruthlessly against all those general secretaries and state unit chiefs who came a cropper. After all, Rahul was not solely responsible for the debacle. Priyanka Gandhis contention that her brother was abandoned by party stalwarts during his fight against Narendra Modi underscores the fact that there were enemies within. If the Congress undertakes course correction with sincerity and determination, it might rise from the ashes sooner rather than later. editorial@tribune.com Ravinder Saini Tribune News Service Jhajjar, May 27 Only two of the 19 students at the Government High School in Girawar village in Jhajjar have passed the matriculation examination, results of which were declared by the Board of School Education Haryana recently. Irked at the poor result of the school, parents of the students locked the main gate of the school on Monday. Holding teachers responsible for the poor show, they demanded that vacant posts be filled and teachers who had not performed well be shifted. The school staff were changed over a year ago. The teachers posted now are not serious about discharging their duties, said Anil Kumar, village sarpanch. Most teachers pass their time in gossip. Mattresses have been placed in a room of the school, where teachers take rest during school hours. Students roam idle on the campus, he claimed. He stated that a delegation of village residents had met the teachers recently to seek reasons for the poor show in the matriculation examination. Instead of accepting responsibility for the poor results, the teachers tried to wash their hands off, pleading that parents should have taught their wards at home after school hours, he added. The parents of a majority of students are uneducated. How can they teach their wards at home? Since teachers seem reluctant to discharge their duties properly, villagers locked the main gate to express their concern, said the sarpanch. On getting information, District Education Officer Satbir Siwach reached the village. He assured protesters on filling vacant posts and replacing some teachers. The residents relented and opened the lock after three hours. editorial@tribune.com Deepender Deswal Tribune News Service Hisar, May 27 The ashes of Sepoy Palu Ram of Nagathla village, who went missing fighting the German army during World War II in Italy, will be brought to his native village on May 31. Ramesh Koth, his grandson, said the Indian Army had informed him about the recovery about three months ago. He said his grandfather was 19 years old and unmarried when he went to the war in 1944. He was in 4th Battalion of the 13th Frontier Force Rifles under the British Indian Army. He went missing in Italy on September 13, 1944. The Zila Sainik Board had approached Leela Ram, a villager, on the instructions of the Indian Army and enquiries led to Palu Rams family. Leela Ram said Palu Rams original name was Pat Ram. His brother Moji Ram had two sons Kana Ram and Ramji Lal. Their families are marginal farmers and Ramesh is Ramji Lals son, he said. Ramesh said the Indian Army gave information about his grandfather on the basis of his pension records. My grandfather had been getting pension in the name of Palu Ram after he went missing, said Ramesh. Reports said in 1966, human bones were found in Poggio Alto in Italy. In 2010, the Italian authorities started identifying the remains. The DNA tests revealed that the remains belonged to non-European adults, aged around 20 to 21 years, which were later identified as that of Palu Ram of Nangthala and Hari Singh of Rohtak. The last rites were performed at the Girone monumental cemetery in Florence in Italy. gspannu7@gmail.com Tribune News Service Gurugram, May 28 The fake call centre menace in the IT hub of Gurugram is back again as police busted a fake call centre in Udyog Vihar area. The police along with a team of cyber cell conducted raids the entire night before they could trace the centre. Police caught four employees who were duping US nationals in name of providing technical support. In addition to other products, the accused offered support with various products of Microsoft. Police had last year busted eight call centres and nabbed 33 employees after Microsoft moved a complaint to police. According to the police, the call centre also called OSP i.e. Other Service Provider was operating from Udyog Vihar, Phase 3. "Five persons were sitting in their workstations calling and conversing in English using their headphones and working on their computer systems. None of them possessed any valid OSP licences or any other agreement/MoU related to their work. On further questioning, they told the police officials that they provide remote technical support services like printer repair, MS-windows error correction, MS-office error correction etc. over VOIP communication with people in the United States. The laptops, computer CPUs, pen drives etc. were seized from the spot for analysis. An FIR was lodged under Sections 75 of the IT Act, 66D IT (amendment), 406,420 and 120B of the IPC, said ACP Karan Goel. rchopra@tribunemail.com Parveen Arora Tribune News Service Karnal, May 28 In a major security breach, three miscreants opened fire on police personnel at the new bus stand here on Tuesday afternoon and freed a convict of a dacoity case from their custody. Two police personnel suffered bullet injuries and were rushed to the Trauma centre, where their health condition is said to be stable. The miscreants freed Sunil alias Kheera (23), a resident of Bahadad village in Panipat district, presently living in Karan Vihar in the city. As per police record, five cases one each of dacoity, murder and NDPS and two of loot had been registered against him. Three personnel of Yamunanagar police including sub-inspector Surinder Singh, constables Sandeep and Vinod brought him in Karnal court for hearing in connection with a murder case registered in Sadar police station in 2016. The incident took place at around 1pm, when the police were taking Sunil back to Yamunanagar from Karnal and were waiting at new bus stand for a bus for Yamunanagar. In the meantime, three miscreants came and opened fire on sub-inspector Surinder Singh and constable Sandeep. They also used pepper spray on another policeman, Vinod, and freed Kheera. As per the police, constable Vinod was the only who had a weapon. After this incident, Director General of Police (DGP) Manoj Yadav announced a reward of one lakh for any information about the criminals. One lakh reward has been declared for information about the accused. It is a request to public to provide information leading to the arrest of Sunil and his aides. The name and identity of the person who gives this crucial information will be kept as a secret, said Navdeep Virk, ADGP, Law and Order, in his tweet. Surinder Singh Bhoria, Superintendent of Police, rushed to the spot and constituted seven teams led by five DSPs to trace Sunil and his aides. The police have also started combing operation in the vicinity, but could not get any success so far. We have formed seven teams to arrest Sunil and his aides. We are also in touch with the police of neighbouring districts for their arrest, said the SP Bhoria. The injured police officials have been given medical attention. It was a well planned attack on the police to free the dacoity convict as the miscreants knew the police party would come at bus stand. They were also familiar with the fact that the new bus stand was outside the city and also neighbouring areas are free for their run. They were also aware that only one policeman was carrying a weapon and they attacked him with pepper spray, said a police official. Meanwhile, the police also found another security lapse at the bus stand as the CCTV cameras installed there were found to be non-functional. editorial@tribune.com Kurukshetra: A 25-year-old man was allegedly tied to a cot and set on fire at his home at Gumthala Garu village in Pehowa on Sunday night. The victim, identified as Budhraj, sustained 30 per cent burn injuries. He was sleeping on a cot in the verandah of his house when someone allegedly tied him with it and set him on fire. After hearing his screams, members of his family came out and rescued him. He was taken to a private hospital, where he is under treatment. His condition is said to be out of danger. As Budhiraj is yet to record his statement, a case has not been registered. TNS 10 sub-health centres upgraded Sonepat: To provide the best treatment to people in rural areas, 10 sub-health centres at Rohna, Sehri, Jharonth, Jainpur, Badoli, Raipur, llrsoli, Malikpur, Rabhra and Bhanderi in the district have been upgraded and each one has been provided with a community health officer. JS Punia, Civil Surgeon, said besides providing seven types of testing facilities, patients would get over 90 types of medicines free of cost for the first time at these centres. He also said 20 primary health centres were being upgraded. OC Wanted criminal held Sonepat: The police nabbed a wanted criminal carrying Rs 25,000 cash reward from his hideout in Nepal on Sunday. The accused, identified as Shankar of Mali Basti in Kishanganj district of Bihar, was produced here in court on Monday and sent in judicial custody. Shankar was arrested by the police for allegedly raping a woman and strangulating her in 1988. OC Polish youth held for peddling drugs Chandigarh: The police on Monday arrested a Polish national from Gurugram and recovered 345-gm opium and 4.285-kg charas from his possession. A police spokesman said the accused was identified as Patryak (28). He said a police team spotted two suspicious youths, who started running on seeing the police. The police chased and arrested Patryak, whereas the other youth escape. The accused said identified his accomplice as Kazi. They have been booked. TNS Boy drowns in pond Panipat: A-12-year-old boy drowned in a pond at Pawati village in Samalkha. The deceased has been identified as Mohit, a student of Class V. He, along with her mother Sunita and sister Payal, was living in a rented accommodation in Gandhi Colony here. It took villagers an hour to fish out the boy, who was unconscious then, and took him to the General Hospital at Samalkha. Doctors declared him brought dead. TNS editorial@tribune.com Our Correspondent UNA, MAY 27 BJP state president Satpal Singh Satti today said the BJP got 69 per cent vote share in Himachal, which is the highest in the country, in this Lok Sabha elections. Addressing mediapersons here, he said while the credit went to the Central leadership led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah. The massive mandate also gave credit to the performance of Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and the efforts put in by the party cadre. Satti said while 53 per cent votes had been polled in favour of the BJP during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the figure this time was 69 per cent, while only 27 per cent people voted for the Congress. He said all 68 Assembly segments gave the BJP massive leads. The president said party workers, panna pramukhs, block, district and state functionaries, MLAs and ministers worked in close coordination to ensure the landslide victory. Taking on the Opposition, Satti said Congress leaders should now introspect their remarks made during and before the campaign regarding the performance of the Jai Ram government. He said some Congress leaders had been spreading a misinformation campaign against the Chief Minister, stating that his performance was poor. Satti said the mandate to the BJP had proved that the people had accepted the functioning of theThakur government and ignored the propaganda of the Congress. He said the Chief Minister had visited every Assembly segment to understand the problems of the masses. The BJP leader said programmes like Jan Manch had gained huge popularity due to the honest efforts by the BJP government to solve peoples problems at their doorsteps, adding that the development works, which had come to a grinding halt during the Congress regime, were revived by the government. editorial@tribune.com Bhanu P Lohumi Tribune News Service Shimla, May 27 The 19-year-old girl was not raped on April 28, revealed the report of the State Forensic Science laboratory (SFSL), Junga. The team had collected samples, including semen on the victims body, clothes and mobile phone. The blood stain on the mobile was that of the victim and a blade was also recovered from the phones cover. The FSL report has ruled out rape and details, along with the medical report which had also suggested that the victim was not raped, have been sent for corroboration, ASP Praveer Thakur, who heads the special investigation team (SIT) said. WhatsApp and Facebook chats of the girl revealed that earlier on two instances, she had called her friend for help, claiming that she was being stalked and in danger. When the youth reached the spot, he saw her sitting in an eatery having food. When asked why she made up the story, the girl told the youth: I was just testing you. Moreover, the girl while talking to her friends mother from her brothers phone stated that nothing had happened. The girl had alleged in the FIR on April 29 that she was abducted near the Dhalli tunnel and raped in a moving car between the Dhalli tunnel and Lower Cemetery on the night of April 28. However, the next day, she retracted her statement before the Magistrate. The video footage of four CCTV cameras, installed on the 4.5-km stretch from the Dhalli tunnel to Lower Cemetery, did not verify the version of the girl that she was abducted as the girl was seen walking in all cameras. Moreover, she refused to identify the vehicle in which she was allegedly abducted. Other questionable points were: Why did she not take a safe route to her place if she was being followed and what made her throw her mobile phone after making a call at the Gudiya helpline. Injury self-inflicted: Report The medical report stated that the cut mark on the victims elbow was self-inflicted. There were six witnesses in the case. A witness had stated that the girl was seen semi nude. The victim had also stated in her FIR that she was molested near Malyana on the outskirts of Shimla on April 17, but refused to reveal the place where she was taken. However, her mobile phone location revealed that she was at home on April 17, police sources said. Timeline editorial@tribune.com Ambika Sharma Tribune News Service Solan, May 27 Investors have opposed an increase in power tariff proposed by HP State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) before the HP Electricity Regulatory Commission. They said the government was trying to attract more investors by projecting cheaper power as the key asset. However, any increase in the tariff would adversely hit investments. Sources said the industry was already moving out after the lapse of the package and HPSEBL had registered a decline in its growth. Power tariff in the state was Rs 4.20 per kilo volt ampere per hour (kvAh) for extra high-tension consumers, whereas in Punjab the same was Rs 5. In Haryana, it was Rs 5.95 per kvAh. The investors said the state government was levying 17 per cent electricity duty on cement plants, while on the remaining units, it was 13 per cent. They also put forward the case of Uttarakhand, where there is a reimbursement of Re 1 per unit for five years. In Haryana, there was a subsidy of Rs 2 per unit for micro and small enterprises in certain categories for three years. Dinesh Sharma, senior vice-president, corporate affairs, Ambuja Cements Limited, said the government continued to charge additional levies to the tune of Rs 120 to Rs 150 per tonne on various commodities as well as Rs 26.25 per metric tonne additional goods tax on raw material such as shale. These taxes had not been subsumed into the GST and they were putting an additional financial strain on the states cement industry. He said 28 per cent GST was already being charged on cement which was not even a luxury item. Rakesh Bansal, vice-president of the Parwanoo Industries Association, said there was also demand for a separate power tariff for intensive industries which were drawing power at higher than 66 kv, as their cost of service was much lower than other categories. Nation should have rights to maintain power plants it built Korea faces the danger of losing exclusive rights to run the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the United Arab Emirates, as its operator decided to break down the long-term maintenance agreement into several short-term projects. The owner, Nawah Energy Company, is considering dividing the 3 trillion won ($2.5 billion) maintenance project among Korean, U.S. and U.K. companies instead of giving it to Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP). If so, the value of the Korean consortium's portion will go down to around 500 billion won. The Barakah plant is the first example of Korea exporting nuclear reactors. Accordingly, KHNP was initially expected to win the exclusive right to maintain the plant that could last up to 15 years. Such expectations began to crumble with the Moon Jae-in administration declaration "to denuclearize" the nation's energy mix. Last November, Nawah Energy signed a contract to operate and maintain the plant with a French company, putting the brakes on Korea's exclusive operating right. Before blaming the UAE, the Moon administration needs to reflect on itself for providing a reason for the Middle Eastern client. The UAE is making the Barakah nuclear plant as the basis of its energy security, but KHNP declared it would permanently shut down 16 reactors in Korea by 2040. In such a situation, would the UAE feel like leaving the long-term maintenance of its nuclear plant to Korea? When President Moon visited Kazakhstan last month, Korea was invited to take part in the bidding for that country's construction of nuclear power plants in the future. The most powerful person in the Central Asian country mentioned Korea's building of UAE reactors then, which demonstrated Korea's status as a nuclear powerhouse. That is unlikely to last long if Korea stops building new reactors at home, which will destroy the entire industrial ecosystem, ranging from design to construction and maintenance. Few, if any, countries will then leave their projects to Korea. All this shows why the Moon administration should recognize the seriousness of the situation, and redraw its energy map to let renewable energy and next-generation nuclear plants coexist. shalender@tribune.com Majid Jahangir Tribune News Service Srinagar, May 27 The Jammu and Kashmir police have filed a chargesheet against a Lieutenant Colonel-rank officer in an alleged molestation case even as the Indian Army has opted for a civil court trial despite the local court in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district giving them the option to choose between court martial and criminal proceedings. A case under Section 354 (assault or criminal force with intent to outrage modesty) of the Ranbir Penal Code had been registered at the Safapora police station after a 34-year-old Mumbai woman accused the Lt Col of molesting her at the Manasbal Cantonment, near Srinagar, in January last year. During the course of investigation, statements of witnesses were recorded and site plan was prepared during which Sections 354-A (sexual harassment) and 354-D (stalking) were incorporated in the case. In light of the facts, given circumstances and evidences collected so far, Sections 354-A and D were established against accused, says the charge-sheet accessed by The Tribune. According to the chargesheet, filed nine months after the case was registered, as the accused is a Central Government employee and currently posted at Manasbal camp, his arrest could not be made out. And after legal opinion, the challan of the case was produced before the court of law for its judicial determination, it added. The accused was not arrested by the police citing Section 549 (delivery to military authorities of persons liable to be tried by court martial) of the J-K CrPC. Had the offence been committed by a civilian, his arrest was mandatory and his presence before the magistrate at the time of challan was necessary. The Army had ordered a CoI and defence officials said prime facie, the inquiry had not found the officer involved in the offences. They claimed due to the non-cooperation of the complainant, the CoI could not be proceeded. However, the officer has been found guilty of lapses, including inviting civilians to Army garrison without permission. 2018 Manasbal garrison case editorial@tribune.com Arun Joshi Jammu, May 27 Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans phone call to his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on Sunday on the latters stupendous victory in the just-concluded General Election was nothing short of an ice-breaking moment for J&K that had eagerly been waiting for the moment. It was no ordinary congratulatory call from Pakistan PM and the response by Modi was equally eloquent, showcasing pathways to foster peace, progress and prosperity in the region of South Asia where Kashmir is considered to be an outstanding issue between the two countries. Kashmiris are rightly analysing the importance of this conversation as path-breaking as it was the first such call Pakistan premier had said during the times of bitterness over Pulwama and Balakot in February this year that his phone call was not responded to by Indian Prime Minister that holds the promise of things moving forward in the way people in this state always wanted. The contents of the conversation released by the foreign ministries of the two countries are quite encouraging rather these can be called ice-breaking moment when seen and read against the backdrop of the catastrophic consequences that the ultra-nationalistic rhetoric could have unfolded in February this year after the February 14 Pulwama attack and the retaliation in aerial strike at Balakot for people of Jammu and Kashmir. They were particularly worried over the possibility of war breaking out between India and Pakistan. The internal situation in the state, especially in the Valley, despite intensified anti-militancy operations, was not showing an end to the alienation that has become a byword to describe the psychological distance to describe the distance between Delhi and Srinagar. Prime Minister Modis exhortation for an environment free of violence and terror for peace, progress and prosperity of the region, in response to Imran Khans congratulatory message, specified the first steps needed to institute the dialogue process. Read in the context of Imran Khans reiteration of his vision of peace in South Asia and wish to work together with his Indian counterpart to achieve these objectives should be seen as a preface to the future conversations between the two leaders and their countries. Those would be great moments for the people of J&K who are the worst affected by their hostilities, and benefit most when they talk friendship. India has genuine concerns about the violence and terror being exported from Pakistan into Kashmir. It would be a mistake if Modis words are interpreted as a precondition for the dialogue. He has only reminded Pakistan leaders of their own words and commitments that terrorism is not in their countrys interest. It is time for them to heed Modis words to make progress in improving ties with India. That alone can help address all issues, including Jammu and Kashmir. ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM With one hit after another to his credit, Ayushmann Khurrana says good box-office numbers give him the courage to do films with a social message. Bareilly Ki Barfi, Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, Badhaai Ho and AndhaDhun have all done well for him in recent times. The actor has taken a career turn to do Article 15, an investigative drama about discrimination. After doing good box-office numbers with four back-to-back films, as an artiste and as an actor, you get the courage to do a film which has a certain social responsibility that can make the nation think, Ayushmann said in a statement. I wanted to do something very relevant to society and to Indians, and not think about how much money it will make. For me, this has never been the benchmark for good cinema. Good cinema can also evoke a discussion and a dialogue and with this film, my attempt is to do just that. I have never been an insecure artist who feels if one film does well, the next has to do bigger and better. Thats a very small lens to operate from. I have always tried to disrupt stereotypes with my cinema. So, this decision is my attempt to disrupt how successful cinema is evaluated in India, he added. Playing a cop The actor, known to pull off experimental themes and genres with ease, has represented the common man in his films with elan. In Anubhav Sinhas Article 15, he plays a policeman who faces insurmountable challenges while in search for truth and justice. Cinema, says the actor, is about the common man and about relatability. It is about resonating your ideas with the masses and I understand that because I am one of them. I have lived every sphere of life just like them. Having had a middle class upbringing, my journey is the same as theirs. I have seen different taboos, progressive and regressive thoughts, have met quirky and mad people, gotten inspired by people and events that have affected all of us as a nation. IANS ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM Naina Mishra In a bid to change the sinful discourse of menstruation, Delhi-based photographer Niraj Gera ventured into the remote areas of Bihar, slums of Delhi and even travelled to Nepal to decipher the menstruation crisis created by our society at large. It took an excursion of six months for Gera to finish off the photo series titled as Sacred Stains, which is based on the theme, menstrual hygiene. This series has 35 photographs and each photograph sheds light on the dark, discreet and less known corners of menstrual hygiene. Gera faced a fair share of challenges. Getting women on board for the display of this issue in photographs was not easy. He shares, There were many well-educated girls who despite being comfortable with the idea of being photographed denied associating themselves with this kind of an issue. Gera adds, There is a custom of menstrual hut in Nepal in which whenever a girl is having her periods, she has to stay in a house meant for animals as she is considered impure. I also happen to know that many girls have died because of snake bites. In Bihar, I had stayed 4-5 days at Laxminiya village in Sapul district. As I tried to interact with women, I learnt that they refrained from interacting with men. There is a belief that if the shadow of a man falls on a woman, then the woman has to rinse herself in the river Ganga to regain purity. Women do not use sanitary napkins, rather were found using undergarments layered with ashes, sawdust, hay and sand. This is even recycled by washing over and over again, shared Gera. The photographs are elucidated with captions, voicing out the variable impressions pertaining to menstruation, including the strength of family required for a woman, the frightful first sight of bleeding that an adolescent girl encounters, the shame of stain on dress a woman has to deal with, the prohibition from entering inside the temples, period pain and work pressure of a working woman and so on. Besides the photo series, Gera has also signed a petition on change.org and has urged the government to make sanitary napkins free for women hailing from the Below Poverty Line. In the petition, he wrote: Twelve-year-old Bholis uterus was removed because she had contracted a reproductive tract infection. Bholi hails from a small village in Madhya Pradesh and represents a large population of Indian women who suffer at the hands of illiteracy. Just like Bholi, millions of women in India fall prey to low standards of sanitation and menstrual hygiene. ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM In the midst of working on 83, actor Ranveer Singh has signed up another film. He will play a Gujarati in Yash Raj Films (YRF) Jayeshbhai Jordaar, to be helmed by debutant writer-director Divyang Thakkar. The actor calls it a miracle script. The project, a humorous entertainer set in Gujarat, is being produced by YRFs home-grown producer Maneesh Sharma, who also discovered Divyang. It will go on floors this October. Describing the film, Ranveer says: Jayeshbhai... is a film with a big heart. In its concept as well as in its appeal, it encompasses the broadest spectrum of the cinema-loving audience its a film for everyone. It is, in fact, a miracle script that YRF found for me out of nowhere. The sheer brilliance of the writing compelled me to immediately green-light this film. Both humorous and poignant, Jayeshbhai... is right up there with the most solid on-paper material Ive ever come across. Great craft Ranveer has been on a roll in the industry, and has worked with top filmmakers like Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Rohit Shetty, Zoya Akhtar and Kabir Khan. After amassing nationwide love as an actor across all demographics, it was natural for him to back a newcomer. I have been immensely fortunate to have collaborated with some of the finest filmmakers of our country. It is humbling and gratifying that they believed in my craft and chose me to lead their cinematic vision. All that I have achieved as an actor today is due to these titanic cinematic forces having put their faith in me, he said. IANS rchopra@tribunemail.com New Delhi, May 28 The CBI has booked an official of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), a middleman and the director of a pharmaceutical company in a case of alleged bribery of Rs 12 lakh, officials said on Tuesday. The NCB had carried out searches on the premises of Three B Healthcare in Paonta Sahib in Himachal Pradesh on May 31, 2016, during which six kilograms of codeine phosphate was recovered from an almirah of the companys General Manager Rajender Singh Rajput, who was also present there, the CBI FIR alleged. Codeine phosphate is a chemical derived from opium and used in cough syrups. Fearing arrest of Rajput, company director Neeraj Bhatia allegedly used the services of one Vishwadeep Bansal, asking him to settle the matter with NCB officials as it could damage his reputation. Bansal assured Bhatia that the matter could be settled after negotiating with senior officials of the NCB in New Delhi, the agency said. The CBI alleged that Bansal met senior officials of the NCB in New Delhi and asked for Rs 12 lakh to be paid to them, it alleged. It is alleged that Bansal paid Rs 12 lakh to NCB inspector Raj Kumar, the FIR said. The agency has booked Raj Kumar, Bansal and Bhatia. PTI traineesubeditor@tribuneindia.com Bengaluru, May 28 Shocked by its defeat in the parliamentary elections, in which it only managed to retain a lone seat in Karnataka, the Congress has blamed the 'polarisation' of votes and an unseen 'Modi wave' for the spectacular performance of rival BJP, which won 25 of the 28 Lok Sabha seats in the southern state. "Instead of focusing on real issues like joblessness and rural distress, the BJP succeeded in polarising the electorate by whipping up a frenzy in the name of national security following February's Pulwama terror attack and the air strikes on Balakot in Pakistan thereafter," Congress state spokesman K.E. Radhakrishna told IANS. As part of a pre-poll seat-sharing arrangement with its ruling ally Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S), the Congress contested on 21 seats, but lost 20, including the eight it won in the 2014 general elections. The lone seat won by the party was Bangalore (Rural), where D.K. Suresh defeated BJP's Ashwath Narayangowada by 2,06,870 votes. Suresh is the younger brother of state Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who belongs to the politically powerful Vokkaliga community (Gowdas). The consolation for the Congress is even the JD-S won only one seat, Hassan, the home turf of its supremo H.D. Deve Gowda. "Between mid-February and mid-April, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed about 10 rallies in which he invoked security concerns in the aftermath of the terror attacks and India's surgical and aerial strikes and changed the narrative from social and economic issues, while we continued to focus on the 'Minimum Income Guarantee Scheme' Nyay, job creation and alleviating farm distress," recalled Radhakrishna. Admitting that the party failed to notice the 'Modi wave' as it was an undercurrent, the leader said the polarisation of the electorate and "money power" helped the BJP to retain the 17 seats it won in 2014 and wrest eight more from the Congress and JD-S. "In our seat-sharing arrangement with the JD-S, we fielded joint candidates for a straight contest against the BJP and also tried to ensure that our respective votes do not get divided in a triangular or quadrangular contest. But our pre-poll strategy and calculations failed to work as the transfer of our votes between the two allies did not happen," said Radhakrishna. Karnataka has been the only southern state, where the saffron party has a strong hold on its electorate since 2004, when it won 18 seats, followed by 19 in 2009 and 17 in 2014, while the Congress won 8, 6 and 9 in these respective Lok Sabha elections. "The Congress lost more than the JD-S in this election by entering into a post-poll alliance with it after the May 2018 Assembly elections to keep the BJP out of power. Even though the two parties did not have the mandate to form the coalition government, by fielding joint candidates, it conceded winnable seats like Tumkur to its ally for the sake of coalition dharma," a political analyst told IANS. The Modi wave was so intense that even a veteran like Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge faced defeat for the first time in his own bastion Gulbarga, a reserved constituency for the Scheduled Castes (SC), which he had won twice, once in the 2009 and then in 2014 polls. "Every vote for a BJP candidate was meant to be a vote for Modi's return to power. And the saffron tsunami swept away Congress stalwarts like former UPA ministers M. Veerappa Moily in Chikkaballpur, K.H. Muniyappa in Kolar (SC) and three-time winner R. Dhruvanarayana in Chamramajanagar (SC)," said the analyst. As a Congress-JD-S joint candidate from Tumkur, even Deve Gowda lost to BJP's G.S. Basavaraj by a narrow margin of 13,339 votes. The BJP not only retained its sway in all the three Bangalore seats, but also won the five seats reserved for the Scheduled Castes and two reserved for the Scheduled Tribes (STs) -- all of which had been traditional Congress strongholds. "As there is no love lost between the local leaders and cadres of both the parties at the grassroots level, their leaders failed to ensure they campaigned for their joint candidates and voted for them too," added the analyst. IANS editorial@tribune.com Ravi S Singh Tribune News Service NEW DELHI, MAY 27 With the BJP making a major dent in West Bengal by winning 18 of 42 seats, TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee has decided to shift her focus to state politics in view of the next Assembly election which will be preceded by the election to civic bodies. A TMC source said Banerjee has decided to revamp the party and make leaders accountable who failed to help garner votes. There is rumbling in the TMC on the sudden surge of the BJP, including in the party stronghold. The party has taken note of the BJPs lead in more than 129 Assembly segments, and being runners up in more than 50 Assembly segments in LS polls. In the last Assembly polls in 2016, the TMC had registered a land-slide victory bagging 211 out of the total of a total of 294. In the 295 seat- state Assembly, one person is nominated from Anglo India community. shalender@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, May 27 The Indian Air Force today flew a Mi-17 medium-lift helicopter with an all-woman crew for the first time, marking another milestone in the professional journey of women personnel in the armed forces. Flight Lieutenant Parul Bhardwaj was the helicopters captain, while Flying Officer Aman Nidhi was the co-pilot and Flight Lieutenant Hina Jaiswal was the flight engineer. They have become the countrys first all-woman crew to fly a medium-lift helicopter. They flew a Mi-17 V5 helicopter for a battle inoculation training mission, taking off and landing from restricted areas at a forward air base under the operational jurisdiction of the IAFs South Western Air Command. Flt Lt Parul Bhardwaj hails from Mukerian in Punjab and is also the first woman pilot to fly a Mi-17 V5. Flying Officer Aman Nidhi hails from Ranchi and is also the first woman IAF pilot from Jharkhand. Flt Lt Hina Jaiswal hails from Chandigarh and is the first woman flight engineer of the IAF. The Russian origin Mi-17 is a utility helicopter that can ferry up to 24 troops or 4,000 kg load. It can also be armed with rockets and machine guns for providing close air support to ground troops. The helicopter was also used to strafe enemy positions at high altitude during the 1999 Kargil conflict. The IAF has several Mi-17 units located across the country, making up the backbone of the vertical lift component. Two from punjab monicakchauhan@gmail.com Lucknow, May 28 The Uttar Pradesh Police said on Tuesday that the killers of Surendra Singh, a former village head and a BJP leader in Amethi, were his local political rivals. It had been widely speculated that Singh was murdered because he had campaigned for Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Smriti Irani. Director General of Police OP Singh said that on the basis of evidence, the victim had local-level rivalry. One of the accused wanted to contest the panchayat election but Singh was supporting another aspirant. The police have filed a First Information Report against the five accused. Wasim, Nasim, Golu and Ramchandra have been booked for the murder while the fifth person, identified as Dharamnath Gupta, has been charged with conspiracy to kill the BJP leader. Three of the accused were arrested on Tuesday and the police are searching for the remaining two. Surendra Singh was shot dead while he was sleeping outside his house early on Sunday and the murder prompted Smriti Irani to come down to Amethi where she met the family of the deceased and even attended the cremation. Later, she told reporters that she would personally ensure that the accused get strict punishment. IANS Why did intelligence chief meet Moon's confidant? National Intelligence Service chief Suh Hoon has come under fire for getting together for dinner last week with Yang Jung-chul, one of President Moon Jae-in's closest aides. The controversy over Suh's meeting with Yang, director of the think tank of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), erupted following media reports of their "secret" meeting at a restaurant in Gangnam. Yang has dismissed all suspicions regarding the meeting, saying it was a private gathering of old acquaintances. Opposition parties immediately raised suspicions that the meeting was to discuss strategies for the general election to be held in April 2020. Main opposition Liberty Korea Party (LKP) Chairman Hwang Kyo-ahn said it was not an appropriate time for the spy chief and Yang to meet, even if it was a private meeting. Many people agree with the LKP's claim that the meeting was highly inappropriate and could be seen as a sign the NIS intends to meddle in the upcoming elections. From the people's point of view, it is very odd that the head of the nation's top intelligence agency would spend time having dinner with someone like Yang, who was only recently named to lead the ruling party's think tank after a long time away from Korea. They had worked together during Moon's presidential campaign, but the timing is not right for the NIS chief and the President's close confidant to meet, with less than a year until the elections. And right now, the NIS chief should be tied up entirely with the security situation on the Korean Peninsula amid the shaky denuclearization talks between the U.S. and North Korea. It seems very odd for the NIS chief to have a lengthy dinner meeting with the head of a political think tank under such grave security conditions. Former NIS chiefs have been prosecuted for election meddling and other irregularities, and the people certainly do not want to see a repetition of this shameful side of the NIS. Equally problematic is Yang's behavior and attack on the press. He had said many times that he would stay away from domestic political affairs during Moon's presidency. But he made a political comeback as the head of the ruling party's think tank and one of the first things he did after the appointment was get together with the head of the nation's intelligence agency. Minor opposition Bareunmirae Party Rep. Lee Hye-hoon, head of the National Assembly's Intelligence Committee, underlined the inappropriateness of the Suh-Yang meeting, saying that even she was unable to get Suh's contact number during an emergency, such as when the talks between the U.S. and North Korean leaders collapsed in Vietnam earlier this year. Yang blamed the press for meddling in his private affairs, but his meeting with Suh cannot be categorized as private. Cheong Wa Dae's reaction is also incomprehensible. The presidential office said it had nothing to do with the meeting. But given that Moon had vowed to separate the NIS from politics from the beginning of his presidency, Cheong Wa Dae's explanation only fuels public discontent toward the President, who has already lost face over a series of embarrassing accidents such as the leaking of details of his phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump. As the parties enter election mode, it is particularly important for Cheong Wa Dae to stay out of situations that could trigger suspicions of political interference. rchopra@tribunemail.com Munger, May 28 JD(U) legislator Mewalal Choudhary and wife Nita, also an ex-MLA, sustained severe burns in a gas cylinder explosion in Bihars Munger district, police said. While Nita suffered 90 per cent burns and was battling for life, her husband escaped with burns on his hands, Munger Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Hari Shankar Kumar told PTI. Sources in the neighbourhood said the couple woke up to foul smell in the middle of the night and switched on the lights in the kitchen, triggering the cylinder blast. The ASP, however, said the reason behind the explosion could be ascertained only after a thorough probe. Kumar said the couple was rushed to Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital, Bhagalpur, where the doctors referred Nita to Patna Medical College and Hospital. From what we have heard, Nita is being airlifted to Delhi from Patna for treatment, he added. Choudhary is the JD(U) legislator from Tarapur Assembly constituency in Munger. His wife had also represented the constituency in the past. PTI traineesubeditor@tribuneindia.com Tribune News Service Kolkata, May 28 West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has constituted a committee to probe the incident of the smashing of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagars bust at the Vidyasagar College. The incident happened when a clash broke out between the supporters of the TMC and the BJP during a roadshow in Kolkata by BJP president Amit Shah on May 14. Headed by the newly appointed home secretary Alapan Banerjee, the committees members include Kolkata police commissioner Anuj Sharma, ACP Javed Shamim, Vidyasagar College principal Gautam Kundu and officer-in-charge at the Amherst Street police station Kaushik Das. The state government had earlier constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the incident. In his election meetings, Prime Minister Narendra Modi blamed the TMC for breaking the bust. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on the other hand, claimed that BJP supporters had vandalised the bust of the 19th-century reformer. gspannu7@gmail.com Shiv Kumar Tribune News Service Mumbai, May 28 The Mumbai Police on Tuesday arrested Bhakti Mehere, a senior medical student at the state-run BYL Nair Hospital, for allegedly driving a junior colleague, Payal Tadvi, to suicide earlier this month. Police said they are on the lookout for two more doctors, Hema Ahuja and Ankita Khandelwal, who were accused of harassing Tadvi. In their complaint with the police, the parents and husband of the deceased medical student showed WhatsApp messages shared by Payal naming the three doctors of harassing her because she had obtained admission to the course of MD on the quota reserved for Scheduled Tribes. Today the management of Nair Hospital suspended the head of the gynaecology department Dr Yi Ching Ling until further notice for not acting on the complaint filed by Payal and her husband Dr Salman. Maharashtras Minister for Medical Education Girish Mahajan told reporters that preliminary investigation into Dr Payals suicide revealed that she was ragged by the three doctors for being a Scheduled Tribe student. According to sources, some 30 staff at the hospital, including those present at the Operation Theatre on the day of the suicide, told police that they had seen Dr Payal being insulted by the three women. Meanwhile, Payals husband, Dr Salman, told reporters here that he wanted the police to probe the murder angle into the incident as well. The three women doctors, he said, were present when Dr Payals hostel room was forced open and she was found hanging from the ceiling fan in the room. The incident has ignited protests with organisations representing people from the Scheduled Castes and Tribes likening Dr Payals suicide to that of Rohit Vemula. rchopra@tribunemail.com Chennai, May 28 Tamil superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a charismatic leader like Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi and attributed the BJPs massive win in the Lok Sabha polls to his leadership. He said Congress president Rahul Gandhi need not resign following the partys debacle in the Lok Sabha election, saying he was a youth leader and perhaps had not got the cooperation of senior party leaders. The veteran star likened Modi to tall leaders of India, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, AB Vajpayee, K Kamaraj, CN Annadurai, MG Ramachandran, M Karunanidhi and J Jayalalithaa. This Lok Sabha poll victory is a win for the individual leadership called Modi. It is the victory for a charismatic leader, he told reporters here. In Indian politics, whether at the national or state levels, any party will reap wins only on the (popularity) of a leader. He is a charismatic leader, he said about Modi. He noted that the country in the past had charismatic leaders like Nehru, Indira, Rajiv and Vajpayee. After them (the country) has got Modi, a charismatic leader. If you see in Tamil Nadu, there were charismatic leaders like Kamaraj, Anna, Kalaignar, MGR, Jayalalithaa. Along those lines, this victory is achieved for the leadership of Modi, he said. However, the BJP lost out in southern states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu due to an anti-Modi wave though there was a pro-Modi wave in other parts of the country, he noted. When there is a political wave, one cannot swim against it and will be swept away, he added. The reasons for such an anti-Modi wave in Tamil Nadu included the Sterlite issue in Tuticorin, methane extraction project in Cauvery delta and the whirlwind campaign of the opposition, Rajinikanth added. On Congress chief Gandhis offer to resign, the Tamil superstar said, He should not resign. I wont say he lacks leadership qualities. I think it is really difficult to handle the Congress party...where there are so many veterans. As a young leader it is difficult to handle senior people. My observation is that senior Congress leaders had not cooperated well. They had not worked hard, he said. There was no need for Gandhi to resign as an opposition party was as important as the ruling one in a democracy, the veteran star added. PTI shalender@tribune.com Sandeep Dikshit Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 27 India is an enthusiastic participant in the summits of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) but as its push for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council does not get traction at these two forums, there is a concerted attempt to revive the IBSA (India, Brazil and South Africa) after an eight-year gap. Two back-to-back summits are usually not the norm in international diplomacy. But the eleventh BRICS summit in Brazil may well see the IBSA summit a day earlier if all the pieces fall in place. The last IBSA summit was held in 2011 and all associated activities had petered out by 2013. It was then felt that the IBSA had become redundant after South Africa joined BRIC as its fifth member. The move to revive the IBSA began last year in Pretoria with a meeting of Foreign Ministers. The momentum was maintained with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa delivering the Gandhi-Mandela lecture followed by a meeting of the BRICS sherpas (designated officials from the respective foreign offices) in Kochi last month. The rub with both the BRICS and the SCO is the dominating presence of Russia and China. Being permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), they have little interest in pushing for its expansion. On the other hand, India, Brazil and South Africa are all aspirants for a restructured UNSC, for which they do not get the expected support from Russia and China at both BRICS and SCO. Last year, the heads of government of the IBSA countries attending the BRICS summit in Johannesburg felt that despite 10 years of its existence, it does not fully address our aspirations with respect to multilateralism and UNSC expansion. The push for reviving IBSA has started, said official sources. At the Johannesburg BRICS summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had set the ball rolling at a restricted meeting of the five leaders. The Prime Minister had observed that in the 10th year of inception, the BRICS had deviated from the objective of promoting multilateralism in world affairs. Modi was backed by South African President who pointed out that reform was important, especially in the United Nations Security Council. Immediate focus on non-permanent seat shalender@tribune.com Mukesh Ranjan Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 27 The NITI Aayog has worked out a detailed 100-day action agenda for the Narendra Modi government 2.0 with special focus on laying robust foundation for enhancing employment opportunities and better management of water resources. Officials concerned told The Tribune that the job at hand was accomplished with active support from officials of the Prime Ministers Office (PMO). They said the action agenda has suggestions for further freeing up sectors like infrastructure (road, rivers, railways, airports and ports), oil and gas, education and healthcare from red tape. With a focus on enhancing employment opportunity in the country, the document, based on which the NITI Aayog will give a presentation to the PM, has also laid out a detailed plan to push investments in MSMEs, mining, power, education and primary healthcare sectors. A senior official of the NITI Aayog said, We have also made efforts to suggest measures in sync with the BJPs poll manifesto. As the PMO asked to work out a detailed plan on improving drinking water management and a blueprint for inter-linking of rivers, the official said, We have incorporated an idea to build a network of dams and linkages so that India is not exposed to threat of China building dams on upstream Brahmputra as well as optimum utilisation of the rivers under India as per the Indus Water Treaty. Other priority areas are roads, airports and port infrastructure to promote tourism across the country. The plan is to showcase Indias vast historical heritage by creating a network of hotels along with airports so that visitors from abroad have better access to these sites, said the official. Top priorities Laying robust foundation for enhancing employment opportunities and better management of water resources Building a network of dams and linkages so that India is not exposed to threat of China building dams on upstream Brahmputra Improving road, airport and port infrastructure to promote tourism across the country by showcasing Indias vast historical heritage Lies spread about BJP A wrong impression has been created about the BJP through lies and wrong logic. Those creating the perception can be defeated with the help of hard work and transparency. Narendra Modi, PM monicakchauhan@gmail.com Islamabad/Karachi, May 28 Pakistan has tried to downplay India's decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modi's swearing-in on Thursday, claiming that the Indian Prime Minister's "internal politics" does not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a part of the seven-member regional grouping. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Prime Minister Khan to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. "His (Prime Minister Modi's) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon)," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. "India's internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation," he said. Modi and Khan are scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan next month. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in held on May 26 in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Khan after he won the General Election last year and wrote a letter as well. Prime Minister Khan, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. "Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Mr Modi as a goodwill gesture," the Pakistani foreign minister said. "Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region... the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. "It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tension," Qureshi said. Prime Minister Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. PTI rchopra@tribunemail.com Karachi, May 28 Pakistan has tried to downplay Indias decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modis swearing-in on Thursday, saying the Indian Prime Ministers internal politics does not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it had invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to Modis inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a member of the regional grouping. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India had not invited Pakistan Prime Minister Khan to Modis inauguration, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. His (Prime Minister Modis) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon), Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. Indias internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation, he said. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Modis swearing-in held on May 26 in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Khan after he won the general election last year and wrote a letter as well. Prime Minister Khan, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Modi as a goodwill gesture, the Pakistani foreign minister said. Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region...the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions...Pakistan did not create tension, Qureshi said. Modi on Thursday led his BJP to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmirs Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. PTI editorial@tribune.com New Delhi, May 27 Leaders from BIMSTC countries, besides the heads of government of Kyrgyzstan and Mauritius, are among the foreign dignitaries who will attend the swearing-in ceremony of PM Narendra Modi for his second term. Making the announcement, the MEA said it would later announce any additions to the list. BIMSTEC or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Scientific Cooperation has Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand besides India. Last time, Modi had invited leaders of all SAARC countries for his first swearing-in ceremony as PM. The souring of ties with Pakistan has led the government to avoid the SAARC umbrella in order to ensure Islamabad is excluded. Afghanistan has suffered collateral damage from this strategy though the MEA has said the invitee list is still open. Earlier it was being speculated that either leaders from West Asia or the five permanent (P-5) members of the UN Security Council (the US, the UK, France, Russia and China) could attend the swearing-in ceremony. TNS monicakchauhan@gmail.com New Delhi, May 28 Congress president Rahul Gandhi is unlikely to be the party leader in the Lok Sabha and the post may go to someone else as it happened in the previous Lok Sabha, party sources said on Tuesday. But Gandhi is expected to be the CPP leader. Two senior Congress general secretaries IANS spoke to confirmed that Rahul Gandhi was not willing to take the position of leader of the Congress in the lower house. They said that Gandhi was more eager to continue the ideological battle with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ideological mentor RSS in and outside Parliament. The leaders pointed out that he had taken the partys poor showing in the Lok Sabha elections in which the Congress won just 52 seats personally and offered to step down as the Congress president and called for someone outside the Gandhi family to head the party. Gandhi told senior leaders that he did not want to get into the appointments of state unit and district chiefs. But party sources said that Rahul Gandhi was likely to opt for the post of Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) leader in the Lok Sabha. Meanwhile, Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Randeep Singh Surjewala and Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot were on Tuesday seen making a beeline at Rahul Gandhis residence following his insistence on stepping down from the top post. Gandhi had offered his resignation first during the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on Saturday but it was unanimously rejected. The CWC, which is the partys top decision making body has also authorised Rahul Gandhi to make structural changes in the party. Gandhi was slated to meet Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot as well, party source said. On Monday, Gandhi had declined to meet Gehlot despite an appointment and asked him to meet veteran party leader KC Venugopal instead. His offer to step down as Congress president was earlier rejected by Congress Working Committee members. IANS shalender@tribune.com Aditi Tandon Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 27 Congress president Rahul Gandhi is said to be adamant on giving up his post despite the Congress Working Committee at a meeting on Saturday rejecting his offer to resign. He has been incommunicado since then, not entertaining appointment requests and leaving the party in a state of flux. The Congress has received a drubbing in the Lok Sabha elections for a second time in a row. In a repeat of 2014, the party this time won 52 seats whereas it needed 54 to stake claim to the post of Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. Rahul is pushing for a non-Gandhi Congress chief. Congress cadres, meanwhile, are confused on the status of their president with resignations piling up in his office and none around to take a call. Punjab Congress president Sunil Jakhar, trounced by BJPs Sunny Deol in Gurdaspur, has put in his papers. So has his counterparts in Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam and Karnataka. In a statement, party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said: The CWC is the highest decision-making body of the Congress. It is a democratic forum in this realm, CWC members expressed views at the May 25 meeting, looked at reverses in Lok Sabha elections as an opportunity for radical changes and a complete organisational overhaul for which it authorised Congress president Rahul Gandhi. He urged everyone, including the media, to respect the sanctity of the closed-door CWC meeting, not fall into the trap of conjectures or speculation and await the calibrated efforts by the Congress towards the future course of action. The course of action, as The Tribune earlier reported, could mean a plan to create collective leadership with a new format where a non-Gandhi could come in as party chief. Rahul is learnt to have told his colleagues to study ways of implementing his vision of a new Congress even as insiders express the apprehension that the party could crumble under factionalism if Rahul steps down. Many are questioning the timing of the experiment after Rahul himself chose to become party vice-president in 2013, famously quoting his mother Sonia Gandhi as telling him, Power is poison. Leaders in private say Rahul knew what he was getting into. With elections due in Haryana, Maharashtra, Delhi and Jharkhand, we cannot afford to get into this debate right now. A discussion (on a non-Gandhi Congress president) at this juncture will demoralise the cadre and make room for heightened factionalism with leaders lobbying for the top job, neglecting the state elections ahead, cautioned a former UPA minister. Some leaders say Rahul should remain at the helm, creating a presidium of senior leaders for clarity of vision. But deep down, they are uncomfortable with the prospect of non-Gandhi chief. Even if one is appointed, no one will acknowledge him, they feel. Veterans point to how the Congress disintegrated each time a non-Gandhi asserted himself. Former Law Minister Ashwani Kumar said, It is the unanimous view of Congress persons that in the prevailing political context, which has no equivalence in the past, and considering the need for a cohesive Congress to resurrect itself, there is no substitute for Rahul Gandhi as pesident . I sincerely hope that he would reconsider his decision. Only then can he apply the necessary correctives and redefine the partys role as an effective Opposition necessary for a healthy democracy. editorial@tribune.com Anup Dutt Bhopal, May 27 The Congress coalition government in Madhya Pradesh led by Chief Minister Kamal Nath is ready for a floor test. I have proved majority in the House four times in the last five months and I am ready for it again. All MLAs supporting the government attended the Congress legislature party meeting yesterday. Despite that, if the Opposition insists, we are ready for the floor test, Nath said in Sidhi today. He was in Sidhi to pay homage to Saroj Devi, wife of late Congress leader Arjun Singh who passed away a few days ago. After the crushing defeat in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP has started talking about instability of the Congress-led government. Under pressure, yesterday, a CLP meeting was held at the CMs residence. The CLP meeting was also attended by coalitions two MLAs from the BSP, one from the SP and four Independents. All MLAs pledged to continue their support to Congress government, said a Cabinet minister. According to state Congress media coordinator Narendra Saluja, two Congress MLAs were unable to attend the meeting minister Lakhan Ghanghoriya being indisposed and MLA Vikas Patel on foreign visit. A few days ago, Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargav had demanded a special session of the Assembly, hinting that the BJP expected the Congress to prove numbers. In this backdrop, former CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the BJP would not do anything to unseat Nath. But we cant do anything if this government falls under its own weight, he told reporters on Saturday. He claimed if the BJP had wished, it would not have allowed the Congress to form the government. But we gave the single largest party a chance, he said. Amid BJPs demand for a floor test, Nath claimed at least 10 Congress legislators were being lured by money and posts. In the 2018 Assembly poll, the Congress won 114 seats two short of majority and BJP 109 (now reduced to 108 after GS Damor won the Ratlam Lok Sabha seat). amansharma@tribunemail.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 28 The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to pass any orders for further probe into Hapur lynching case and filing of a supplementary charge sheet. A Vacation Bench of Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Aniruddha Bose, however, asked the trial court to take note of statements of two witnesses recorded before a magistrate under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code. The incident occurred on June 18, 2018 -- a day after the Supreme Court issued guidelines to check incidents of lynching when one of the survivors, 65-year-old Samiuddin was with 45-year-old meat trader Qasim Qureishi. An alleged mob of gau-rakshaks attacked them for allegedly killing a cow. A video of the incident showed that both Qureishi and the petitioner were beaten up. Qureishi died in the incident. Survivor Samiuddin has moved the top court for a direction to the Uttar Pradesh Police to further probe the case and file a supplementary charge sheet. Having considered the matter, we are of the view that no such direction, as prayed for, ought to be issued, the Bench said. The court said it would be appropriate at this stage to permit the petitioners to draw the attention of the trial court to the statements of Saleem and Nadeembrothers of the deceasedrecorded under Section 164 CrPC on May 15, 2019 before the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Hapur. Noting that the trial court would pass appropriate orders on the issue, the Bench ordered the matter to be listed after summer vacation. It also gave liberty to the petitioner to file additional documents. The Uttar Pradesh government had earlier informed the court that it had filed a fresh status report on investigation in the Hapur lynching case in terms of the courts April 8 order. The top court had on September 5, 2018 asked the Inspector General of Police, Meerut Range, to supervise the investigation into the case. Earlier, Samiuddin had demanded an SIT probe into the case to ensure an impartial, competent and fair investigation. He had sought compensation for the victims family. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Lucknow, May 27 In a breakthrough in the murder of Smriti Iranis aide in Amethi, the UP Police today said the three suspects have been arrested and the murder weapon has been recovered. DGP OP Singh said they had recovered the weapon used to kill Surendra Singh, a BJP worker, in Amethi on Saturday. A case of murder and criminal conspiracy under IPC Sections 302 and 120B has been lodged against five accused, of which three Ramchandra, Dharam Nath and Naseem have been arrested. As many as seven persons were detained and they were interrogated. As of now, two accused Atul Singh and Waseem are absconding and we are tracking them, he said. The cause of murder appeared to be an old political enmity at the local level, the DGP said. The former village head is said to have a political rivalry with the father of one of the accused since 2013. He had reportedly implicated him in a case and sent him to jail, said the DGP. A blood-soaked towel and a .315 bore country-made pistol have been recovered and were being sent for forensic examination, he said. The motorcycle used by the accused in the crime is yet to be recovered. On Saturday night, some bike-borne assailants fired at Surendra Singh, 50, former head of Baraulia village, at his residence in Amethi. He was referred to a government hospital in Lucknow but succumbed to his injuries during treatment. Taking cognisance of the murder, CM Yogi Aditynath had directed the DGP to take action to bring the guilty to book within 12 hours. IG Lucknow Praveen Kumar is also monitoring the case. amansharma@tribunemail.com Kapurthala, May 28 A three-year-old girl was on Tuesday allegedly raped by a 55-year-old man, who lured the minor out of her house when her father was asleep, in a village in Sultanpur Lodhi here, police said. The minor victim, daughter of a migrant labourer from Bihar, was lured out of her room by accused Ganesh on some pretext in the morning, SHO Vikramjeet Singh said. The accused took the girl to his place in the neighbourhood and allegedly raped her, Singh said. Locals alerted by the cries of the minor rushed to her rescue and caught the accused, he said. Ganesh, who hails from Tamil Nadu, has been booked under relevant provisions of the law, including the POCSO Act, Singh said. The incident comes close on the heels of the rape of a four-year-old girl in Dhuri town of Sangrur district last week. PTI harinder@tribunemail.com Aditi Tandon Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 27 Punjab Congress president Sunil Jakhar today sent his resignation to Congress president saying he could no longer stay in the post after losing his own seat to BJPs Sunny Deol. Jakhar, a former MP from Gurdaspur, spoke to The Tribune about a range of issues, including the crisis in the Congress. Excerpts Why did you resign as Punjab Congress chief? I resigned because as state president I could not defend my own parliamentary seat of Gurdaspur despite the party blunting the impact of BJP in the state and doing reasonably well. Moreover I had the support of Congress president Rahul Gandhi and state CM Capt Amarinder Singh in my campaign. Yet I failed. I felt it was my moral responsibility to put in the papers. This will help Mr Gandhi restructure the party. But Rahul Gandhi himself offered to resign and the CWC rejected it. Is resigning a solution? What Mr Gandhi did was expected of him. He comes from a family that has always sacrificed power. UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi had given up the PMs chair in 2004 and now Mr Gandhi offered to give up his post. It was becoming of him to offer to resign but the party needs him. Like you, cant Congress President have moral pangs? He also lost his Amethi seat . Theres a difference. He is president of the party which, in his own words, is the sole representative of all castes, creeds, religions and languages. The onus on Congress to fight back is higher now than ever before and he is our leader. He needs to stay. But Rahul Gandhi now wants a non-Gandhi Congress president? What do you think? I would personally want Mr Rahul Gandhi to continue and I agree with AICC general secretary Priyanka Gandhi when she says he would be falling for BJPs trap if he resigns now. If you ask me Mr Gandhi should stay as the party needs him today more than ever. But we are with him in whatever he decides. Punjab CM Amarinder Singh and state in charge Asha Kumari did not know you had sent your resignation to Congress president? I did not discuss it with anyone and sent the resignation to Congress President on the day of the result itself. What do you think of CMs demand to change the portfolio of state minister Navjot Singh Sidhu who he feels damaged partys prospects in the state? These matters should not be discussed publicly according to me. We can resolve these issues within our party. The matter is really between the CM and Congress president. Do you agree with the CM about Navjot Singh Sidhu? As I said I would not like to publicly comment on this. In the past also we have amicably resolved such issues. Why do you think the Congress is where it is electorally today? This is a very profound question which requires profound introspection but on the face of it the BJP marketed itself well. It worked like a successful advertisement company churning out catchy slogans every day and again took people for a ride. Do you think it would have been better has you contested from your old Ferozepur seat. A section in the party wanted that? Everything looks good in hindsight. I did what the party asked me to do. In hindsight in fact one could have decided not to contest even as Congress president Rahul Gandhi has long argued for state chiefs to stay away from contesting elections themselves and rather concentrate on organising elections. editorial@tribune.com Lahore, May 27 A group of locals partially demolished the centuries-old Guru Nanak Palace and sold off its precious windows, doors and ventilators in Pakistans Punjab province, the media reported on Monday. Three storeys of the building have been demolished and new houses constructed. Some influential people have demolished the building with the connivance of the Auqaf Department and sold its costly windows, doors, ventilators and wood, said Muhammad Ashraf, a local. The four-storey Palace of Baba Guru Nanak is believed to have been constructed with bricks, sand, clay and limestone over four centuries ago at Bathanwala village, about 100 km from Lahore. It was frequented by a number of Sikhs from across the world, including India, it is reported. The walls surrounding the building showcased pictures of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak as well as of various Hindu rulers and princes. There were 16 large rooms in the building, all of which had at least three beautiful doors and as many as four ventilators. The rooms had large broad walls with cupboards in them with wooden doors and flowers carved on them. Residents requested Prime Minister Imran Khan to take action against those who demolished it. This old building is called the Palace of Baba Guru Nanak and we have named it Mahalan. A number of Sikhs from across the world, including India, used to visit this building, said Muhammad Aslam, a local. To determine its legal status, locate its owners or find out which government agency maintained its record, Dawn reached out to various authorities from the Deputy Commissioner, Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) to the family that lived in the building, but to no avail. Narowal Deputy Commissioner Waheed Asghar, in charge of the record of all properties in the region, said, There is no mention of this building in the revenue record. As it seemed to be historical, we are checking the municipal committees record. IANS rchopra@tribunemail.com Chandigarh, May 28 Member of Parliament and outgoing Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal has sought Prime Minister Narendra Modis intervention to protest against the demolition of centuries-old Guru Nanak Palace in Pakistans Punjab province. In a tweet on Monday night, she said: I join the Sikh community in condemning the demolition of historical Guru Nanak Palace in Pakistans Punjab province by some vandals in connivance with Auqaf authorities. She urged Modi to strongly take up the matter, which had deeply anguished the Sikh community, with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Believed to have been constructed with bricks, sand, clay and limestone over four centuries ago at Bathanwala village, about 100 km from Lahore, the four-storey Palace of Guru Nanak was frequented by Sikhs from across the world, including India, Dawn newspaper reported. The walls surrounding the building showcased pictures of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak as well as of various Hindu rulers and princes. There were 16 large rooms in the building, all of which had at least three beautiful doors and as many as four ventilators. The rooms had large broad walls with cupboards in them with wooden doors and flowers carved on them, the Dawn reported. The building was demolished by the vandals, who also sold off its precious windows, doors and ventilators, the report said. IANS shalender@tribune.com Tribune News Service Chandigarh, May 27 After a brief hiatus into which he was forced by the Election Commission order, IG Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh is back to take forward the SIT probe into the sacrilege cases and police firing that rocked Punjab under the SAD-BJP regime. Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh, who also heads the Home Department, had, during his election campaign, categorically announced that IG Kunwar Pratap would be back to complete and take the SIT investigations to their logical conclusion the day after the election code of conduct was lifted. The code of conduct ended last evening. As per orders issued on behalf of the Governor of Punjab today, Home Secretary NS Kalsi said Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh is transferred and posted as the IGP, OCCU (Organised Crime Control Unit), with the Additional Charge of IGP, Counter Intelligence, Amritsar. He was posted to the counter intelligence wing after being shifted out of the OCCU on the EC orders for alleged poll code violation, a charge that even the CM had stated as incorrect. The CM had even alleged that the orders were issued at the behest of the ruling BJP an ally of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), whose top leaders, including the Badals, had figured in the investigations. The Ranjit Singh Commission, set up by the Capt Amarinder Singh government to probe the cases, had suggested further probe into the role of the Badals, which the SIT was further probing. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Jalandhar, May 27 Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, president, Shiromani Akali Dal (Taksali), today alleged that the support of Sirsa dera and secret pact with the Congress ensured the Badal couple to win their seats in the state. He questioned SAD president Sukhbir Badal on what basis he was claiming it a victory of the party by winning just two seats. Brahmpura alleged, Sukhbir Badal and his wife are celebrating their victory. They say people forgot sacrilege. I ask them what are they celebrating after losing eight of 10 seats? Even their stalwarts lost. They managed to retain the little with the blessings of the dera, money power and due to understanding with Captain. Is it winning or losing? Brahmpura said his party would contest both the SGPC and the Assembly elections. He said all fringe parties joining together was the only way forward for an alliance in 2022. He also condemned Sukhpal Khairas decision not to allow Bibi Pramjit Kaur Khalra to contest as Independent. Stating that the sentiment against Navjot Sidhu within the Congress was likely to turn negative in the coming days, Brahmpuura invited Sidhu to join the alliance. By Oh Young-jin A former foreign minister once told me of an incident that I think captures the nature of power: one who has power wants to use it. The incident concerned a meeting at Cheong Wa Dae during the Roh Moo-hyun administration. Then Foreign Minister Yoon Yong-hwan berated deputy chief of the National Security Council secretariat Lee Jong-seok. "You could hear a pin drop between bursts of Yoon's criticisms." A "not-so-anonymous" letter was sent, accusing some Foreign Ministry officials of calling President Roh's aides, the famous bunch from the "386 generation," "Taliban." Back in the early 2000s, the 386 generation represented those aged in their 30s who attended colleges in the 1980s and were born in the 1960s, the rebels who saw the downfall of the Park Chung-hee dictatorship and forced his general-turned-successor Chun Doo-hwan to hold a popular presidential election. Yoon stepped down. Lee rose further. The letter sender is now an ambassador to Vietnam. Wi Sung-rak, a brilliant diplomat, was relieved of his post. My source told me that it was Lee's sweet revenge against Yoon. Yoon led Roh's presidential transition team responsible for foreign affairs and North Korea policy, with Lee a junior member. My source told me that Yoon didn't understand the nature of power that is often not so much based on title as on proximity to power. A deeper peek would show a Tolkien temptation to use power just like as in "The Lord of Rings." Why do I bring up the old story? Because I believe there is a ring to the ongoing "leakage-gate" (still in the early stages, with the chance of being covered up without going the full distance). It is about a diplomat caught for leaking the contents of conversations between President Moon Jae-in and U.S. President Donald Trump to an opposition lawmaker. The highlights include Moon's rejection of a visit by John Bolton, the U.S. national security adviser, who is at the top of North Korea's list of personae non grata, and Moon's request for the Trump visit. But these supposed nuggets look less important than the circumstances. Cheong Wa Dae opted to take a tougher line on the incident, triggering a chain reaction a probe started to catch the leaker and the leaker called home for questioning, with Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha vowing to have him severely punished. This action was taken when Trump was visiting Japan, as if it was intended for him. This represents the government's subtle change of direction toward the U.S. and Trump. The Moon team has been "patronizing" Trump, praising the ego-driven leader because he has a decisive say in dealing with the North but with plenty of derision hidden about him. Its handling of leakage-gate indicates Seoul has put more heart into its approach toward Washington. If this is true, there could be a couple of explanations. One may show a higher level of desperation to get the North's denuclearization process moving again at a time when it appears stuck after the no-deal Hanoi summit between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. But it is hard to readily believe that those dyed-in-the-wool people behind the facade of the national security establishment National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director Suh Hoon, National Security Office chief Chung Eui-yong and, by extension, non-standing presidential adviser Moon Chung-in have changed. One "foreign" element is Kim Hyun-chong, NSO second deputy, who was transferred from trade minister after the revision of the Korea-U.S. free trade agreement (FTA). Kim, a U.S. lawyer from Colombia University, served in the same post when the two countries worked out the FTA during the Roh administration. President Moon served as chief of staff for Roh. Kim went on to serve as ambassador to the United Nations. Then, he led Samsung Group's legal department. Now, Kim is known for acting like an American, "kicking a chair when he came back from negotiations with the U.S.," according to one source who worked with him during the FTA settlement in April 2007. He also thinks like an American proof of it being his leading role in the wrapping up of trade talks with the U.S. Of course, that doesn't necessarily mean he is sympathetic to causes the U.S. represents or U.S. leaders, particularly Trump. But he sat next to former U.S. President George W. Bush when he recently participated in the 10th memorial service for President Roh. Of course, his new position is more related to economic affairs, with the first NSO deputy being a former Army general. But Kim's role could be much greater and his influence much bigger than its job description. First of all, senior presidential aides don't always abide by their given jurisdiction, because important decisions are discussed and decided by a meeting of principals. Also, Kim has proved his expertise in dealing with Americans and has a bigger network among American influencers than anybody in the Moon government and most importantly he knows the way Americans think. These strengths can give Kim a leading role and make him the first among equals or over some seniors in policymaking about the Trump administration, when Moon's North Korea initiative faces headwinds from Washington. And he knows it. Then, wouldn't he feel tempted to use the power derived from them, just like the seeker of One Ring Gollum or the bearer like Frodo? Perhaps he is already using it, with the leak scandal being a manifestation. This is a different kind of power struggle one against himself. Just because he has the power, he wants to use it and he uses it to see how strong it is. ) is digital managing editor of The Korea Times. Oh Young-jin ( foolsdie5@koreatimes.co.kr rchopra@tribunemail.com Karam Prakash Tribune News Service Patiala, May 28 The family of a 34-year-old pregnant woman who died in the gynaecology wing of Rajindra Hospital here on Monday morning, has alleged negligence. Parminder Kaur was admitted to the hospital on Sunday night after being referred from Barnala. According to the family, the foetus was already declared dead before she was admitted to Rajindra Hospital. However, the womans health deteriorated at night and she died around 6 am. Following this, the family held a protest outside the gynaecology department. Accusing the doctors of being insensitive, the family said the patient was not treated despite her serious condition. Her husband, Jaswinder Singh, claimed, There was no doctor at night. Despite repeated requests to the staff nurses she was not properly attended to. Jaswinder said Patiala despite being the home district of Health Minister Brahm Mohindra and Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh, the health system there is in bad shape. He said the lack of medicine, no patient care and the insensitive attitude of the doctors spoke volumes about the health facilities in the state. Her father said, We dont want anybody else to face this. The government should take action against the negligent staff. Meanwhile, the doctors in the hospital refused to comment. Medical Superintendent Rajan Singla has called for a meeting to inquire into the death. editorial@tribune.com Manav Mander Tribune News Service Ludhiana, May 27 After going through the humiliation at the hands of the school authorities, the parents of Class VII student Harshdeep of SDN School have now finally shifted their son to a government school. Meanwhile, principal of SDN School has also given a written apology to the parents. The incident is of Friday when Harshdeep Singh came back home from SDN School with a stamp on his left arm which read Please deposit the fee. The two-member committee of principals of Mundiyan Kalan and Nurpur Bet schools was today formed by District Education Officer Swaranjeet Kaur. The inquiry was done by the committee although the DEO has not received the report so far. A two-member inquiry committee today went to the school in the morning, but I have not received the report, said the DEO. Rajinder Ghai, president of the School Parent Association along with the parents went to the school and discussed the matter with the principal. The principal, Shama Duggal, wrote a written apology to the parents on the schools letter head and also gave the pending certificates of Harshdeeps brother. The parents did not want that their son should go to the same school again as he felt humiliated and did not want to face his classmates. So, the wish of the parents was that the student should be admitted to a government school and today we got the student admitted to Government School, Mundian Kalan, and from tomorrow Harshdeep will go to his new school without any sense of fear or trauma, said Ghai. harinder@tribunemail.com NEW DELHI, May 27 (UNI & PTI)As part of the nation-wide memorial functions to mark the fifth death anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru, the Prime Minister, Mrs. Indira Gandhi, today laid the foundation stone of a library building of the Nehru Memorial Museum at a special function at the Teen Murti House where Nehru lived for 17 years. Speaking on the occasion, Mrs. Gandhi said this library was not the only memorial to Mr. Nehru, in fact the entire modern India is his memorial. She said the library would not only depict the personality of Mr. Nehru but would show his ideals and hopes. Though Mr. Nehru is not amidst us his light showing the path to freedom and prosperity it always there. Mrs. Gandhi said the library giving a glimpse of the freedom struggle would be a great source of inspiration to the people. shriaya.dutt@tribuneindia.com Tribune Web Desk Chandigarh, May 28 A driver in the German town of Viersen had a lucky escape when his cartravelling well above the speed limitwas caught on a speed camera. The driver was caught on speed camera, but his identity was hidden when a snow-white dove interceded on his behalf. A light-hearted statement from the police in Viersen suggested that perhaps "it was no coincidence the Holy Spirit" interveneda reference to the dove as a symbol of that aspect of God in Christianity, a media report said. "We have understood the sign and leave the speeder in peace this time." The drivers identity was hidden by the bird's wings spread in flight. "We hope that the protected speeder likewise understands this 'hint from above' and drives appropriately in the future," the statement added. But since only the car, and not the driver, could be identified, he was probably spared the fine "thanks to the feathered guardian angel with seemingly carefully spread wings". sanjiv@tribunemail.com Brussels, May 27 Pro-European parties kept a firm grip on the EU Parliament on Monday as liberal and green parties matched a surge by eurosceptic parties, who won control of a quarter of seats in European elections for the first time. The far-right and nationalists in Italy, Britain, France and Poland came out on top in their national votes on Sunday, shaking up politics at home but failing to dramatically alter the balance of pro-European power in EU assembly. Facing a more hostile Russia, Chinas growing economic might and an unpredictable US President Donald Trump, many Europeans appeared to heed a message that the EU needed to stick together to protect workers rights, free speech and democracy. We are going to build a social Europe, a Europe that protects, Spains Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, whose revival among Spanish voters offset a fall in centre-left support in Germany, said. Investor sentiment was bolstered by the smaller than expected gains by populist parties. However, the drop in support for the main centre-right and centre-left blocs could complicate policymaking and require broader cross-party agreements and discipline, market analysts said. Provisional results published on Monday showed the Socialists, Greens, liberals and conservatives with 507 of the 751 seats in the EU Parliament, which helps pass laws for more than 500 million Europeans. The search for a majority, as well as securing the top EU jobs, will now dominate as pro-EU groups seek to shield the EU from anti-establishment forces, who want to break up the worlds largest trading bloc but who are split over its future. French President Emmanuel Macrons centrist Renaissance platform added to gains for liberals at the EU level while support for the Greens surged, giving four groups the pro-EU middle ground and holding on to two-thirds of seats. A stronger voice for the liberals and Greens could see the next EU executive seek a tougher line on regulating polluting industries, taxing multinational companies or demanding trading partners help contain climate change. They could also press EU member states, notably in the east, not to damage civil rights. Turnout in the worlds second-biggest election rose to 51 per cent from 43 per cent in 2014, its highest in 20 years and the first reverse of falling participation since the first direct EU vote in 1979. Reuters UK parties gird for no-deal Brexit battle sanjiv@tribunemail.com Tokyo, May 27 President Donald Trump said on Monday he was not personally bothered by recent short-range missile tests that North Korea conducted this month, breaking with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who is hosting the President on four-day state visit full of pageantry. Standing beside Trump at a news conference after hours of talks, Abe disagreed with the US President, saying the missile tests violated UN Security Council resolutions and were of great regret. Abe, who has forged a strong friendship with Trump and agrees with him on many issues, is concerned because the short-range missiles pose a threat to Japans security. Despite being far from Washington, he didnt miss the chance to lob another broadside against former Vice President Joe Biden, one of the Democrats seeking to challenge Trump in next years presidential election. North Koreas Kim Jong Un recently criticised Biden as having a low IQ, and Trump told the world he agreed with the authoritarian leaders assessment. The visit was designed to highlight the US-Japan alliance and showcase the warm relations between the leaders. Trump said he and Abe deliberated over economic issues, including trade and Iran, during hours of talks at the Akasaka Palace, but North Koreas recent firing of short-range missiles emerged as an area of disagreement. When asked if he was bothered by the missile tests, Trump said: No, Im not. I am personally not. He has sought to downplay the significance of the tests, even though his own national security adviser, John Bolton, has said they violated UN resolutions. Trump continues to hold out hope of getting Kim to agree to give up his nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, despite two summits hes had with Kim that produced no concrete pledge to denuclearise the peninsula. AP 1st head of state to meet new emperor President Donald Trump got the red carpet treatment Monday at Japans Imperial Palace where he made history, becoming the first world leader to meet with the new emperor of Japan. Emperor Naruhito ascended to the throne on May 1, opening what is called the era of Reiwa, or beautiful harmony sanjiv@tribunemail.com Sydney, May 27 Australias Opposition is set to anoint Anthony Albanese as its new leader, hoping to win back the working class after a shock election defeat to the conservative government. The Australian Labor Party unexpectedly lost to incumbent leader Scott Morrison on May 18, despite leading in the polls running up to the election. Albanese, from Labors left faction, replaced Bill Shorten when the former union chief stepped down hours after losing the vote. The 56-year-old will be officially confirmed by the Labor caucus on Thursday after the uncontested leadership ballot. Albanese vowed to create a larger, more inclusive party amid soul-searching within the ranks over the defeat. I understand that it is a big mountain that we have to climb, Albanese told reporters in Sydney, where he holds his lower House seat. I want to build relationships between the Labor Party and those people who voted for us, but also those people who wanted to vote for us, who were open to vote for us, but who felt like they couldnt. Labors large and progressive policy reform agenda, which it campaigned heavily on, as well as Shortens unpopularity with voters, have been blamed for the election upset. Albanese argued it was possible to grow the economy, and create jobs while still pursuing a progressive agenda. AFP THE sister of a Santa Cruz man who was reported missing to police received news on Monday that he died of the Covid-19 virus several weeks ago. Maria Virgil, 62, was informed by hospital authorities that her brother, Sonny Fitzgerald Virgil, 78, of La Canoa, died at the Arima Hospital on December 1. By Choi Sung-jin The relationship between South Korea and Japan is at its most strained in decades or, as some say, since the two countries normalized ties in 1965. Unlike in the past, the more angered side seems to be Tokyo, not Seoul, this time around. Nothing shows this better than Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono's repeated diplomatic discourtesy. Kono rudely urged President Moon Jae-in to resolve the critical pending issue between the two countries before he visits Osaka, Japan, to attend the G20 summit meeting next month. The straw that broke the camel's back regarding bilateral relations was the Korean Supreme Court's ruling about six months ago. Last November, the top court ordered Japanese companies to award up to 120 million won ($100,000) to each of a dozen Koreans forced to labor for the Japanese during colonial rule. As the Japanese companies have refused to compensate them, the plaintiffs will soon enter into a process to seize these firms' assets in Korea. If that happens, Tokyo is threatening to retaliate with various measures, ranging from refusal to issue visas to slapping steep tariffs on Korean imports. Moreover, if the tit-for-tat escalates, the two countries could wage a large-scale trade war and some worry there might even be accidental military clashes. The Korean top court's ruling means it believes the 1965 treaty to settle colonial-era issues does not terminate individuals' rights to claim damages. The Japanese government says this breaches the bilateral agreement and violates international law. Tokyo wants to take this case to international arbitration, and, eventually to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). If Seoul rejects the offer, there is no way to bring this to the ICJ, but Tokyo aims at attaining a propaganda effect that it is acting according to international norms. Critics of President Moon, especially conservative opposition parties and media outlets, are calling for the South Korean leader and his government to act right away to prevent further aggravations from a bilateral relationship. Prompting their calls were the Japanese media's reports that U.S. President Donald Trump, who had so far appeared to pay little attention to the frictions between America's two Northeast Asian allies, nudged Moon to improve ties with Japan, during their summit in April. The news report may be right. Washington has always stepped in to mediate diplomatic disputes between Seoul and Tokyo whenever they got fierce enough to cause a setback in the U.S. strategy to contain its regional rivals of Russia or China. Trump is never ordinary as a U.S. president but might have found it difficult not to follow the traditional course. The ongoing diplomatic row between the two Asian neighbors is unlikely to end easily or soon, however. Underneath the ostensible bickering are the deeper-rooted philosophies and strategies of the two leaders Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and President Moon. Abe's ambition is to make Japan a "normal" country, diplomatically and militarily returning it to a pre-1945 situation. Abe and his political support base of ultra-rightists may think the only thing Japan did wrong was neither the military invasion nor the glaring abuses of human rights of foreigners but losing World War II. Also, they hate to see the economic and military emergence of China or Korea. President Moon, in contrast, thinks most of the problems in this country originated from Japan's forced annexation of the Korean Peninsula and failure to clear away the remnants of Japanese colonialism former pro-Japan collaborators and their dictatorial descendants. Abe and Moon will exit the political stage sooner or later and may be replaced by the advocates of compromise like former President Kim Dae-jung and former Premier Keizo Obuchi who opened an era of bilateral reconciliation and harmony. The chances, however, are there will be more Abes and Moons than Kims or Obuchis in the two countries unless Japan entirely gives up its ambition to restore its status as a military power without reflecting on its past or by justifying it. All this shows this is time for Korea to consider restarting bilateral ties. Korea should, of course, avoid confronting Japan on every issue. President Moon recently said the two countries could separate political i.e., historical issues from economic, or future, ones. The current Japanese attitude shows that the so-called two-track approach will not work, however. Tokyo wants Seoul's surrender in historical issues if it is to maintain economic ties with the larger and more advanced economic power. True, Korea may have more to lose than to gain from head-on clashes with Japan. Some might recall the 1997-98 Asian currency crisis when Tokyo's refusal to roll over yen-denominated loans dealt a crippling blow to Seoul's efforts to stave off the looming fiasco. That said, Korea's economy has grown enough not to be intimidated by Tokyo's threats. The nation needs to deal with Japan in a more fair and square manner on the international stage. It should be ready to meet Japan at the ICJ or even question the legitimacy of the 1965 regime, a typical unequal treaty by the coercion of the U.S. Human rights and democracy appear to be two awkward phrases as a diplomatic slogan in today's world, increasingly festered by populists and extremists. Nonetheless, Korea has few other ways to deal with and win over the brazen neighbor as well as grow to a small but influential country that is not easily swayed by surrounding powers. Conservatives in Seoul, Tokyo and Washington may not like it, but the last thing South Korea should do is to hold the hands of former colonialists to dominate its other half in the northern part of this peninsula. To survive in this regional jungle and not repeat past tragedies, South Korea should first grow economically and realize a de facto same political unity with North Korea. That may be the only way to win at least the recognition if not the respect of the arrogant and unrepentant neighbor to its east. Choi Sung-jin is a Korea Times columnist. Contact him at choisj1955@naver.com. So what if the AG says okay well take it off the table now, but were leaving ourselves open to put it back, at the end of the discussions. We are told there was a policy paper, which was in formulation, and being readied for wider discussion. Where it is, and what in it has led the Government to its current position, it seems fair to say lets see it. It is the best of times. It is the worst of times. In our current age of foolishness, things are incredible, thriving, booming, prospering, tremendous, beautiful, very much happy the greatest, best and most. It is also a disaster, a mess, disintegrating, really bad, even worse than the worst, ridiculous, nasty and fake- with abuses, a lot of problems and in a spiral down. All of the above thoughts were proclaimed by President Trump within the span of a few minutes this last week. So extreme is his rhetoric that even an attempt to portray himself as calm devolved into hysterical hyperbole. I was so calm, he said. I was extremely calm. Kellyanne, what was my temperament? Very calm, aide Kellyanne Conway replied. You were very calm, aide Mercedes Schlapp assured him. Aide Larry Kudlow concurred: You were very calm. So I was very calm, said Trump. Very calm, spokeswoman Sarah Sanders echoed. Couldnt have been more calm, Trump summarized. We had this instance at least once before where I was very, very calm. So I was extremely calm, very much like I am right now. Totally!!! He was so preternaturally pacific, so stupendously serene, so transcendentally tranquil that there has never, ever been a person, dead or alive, as utterly, astonishingly and overwhelmingly calm as Trump. We have by now become accustomed to such extreme emotion both hot and cold from the president. Routine though it is for him, it is not normal. Now we know exactly how abnormal it is. I asked Factba.se, a data analytics company that analyzes language with artificial intelligence, to do a sentiment analysis of Trumps speech compared to that of his predecessors. Factba.ses Bill Frischling had his computers sift through millions of words uttered by presidents back to Herbert Hoover and compute the intensity of each ones average positive comment and average negative comment. The presidents were in a tight band. With +1.0 being the most favorable possible statement, their positive statements averaged from +0.22 to +0.33. With -1.0 being the most adverse possible statement, their negative statements averaged from -0.19 to -0.27. And then there was Trump. His average positive statement: +0.64 (+0.66 on Twitter). His average negative statement: -0.53 (-0.61 on Twitter). He is literally twice as extreme as all predecessors over the past century. And its not just presidents. Trumps rhetoric is also about twice as extreme as the most extreme members of the last Congress (-0.31, +0.36). But if Trump is without peer in the American political tradition, he unfortunately has equals in another tradition. Such rhetoric is a hallmark of totalitarianism. Its using emotion to circumvent reason, to overwhelm reason, says Jason Stanley, a Yale philosopher specializing in language and author of the book How Fascism Works. He wants to get the situation such that its a crisis and theres such fear and suspicion that the only happiness, the delivery, is winning over his enemies, Stanley tells me. Hence, the lavish praise of and great love for his supporters and the unalloyed vitriol toward foreigners, racial minorities, elites and socialists. Trump isnt necessarily fascist, but his language is. Goebbels talks about propaganda being best when it appeals to straightforward emotion: fear, suspicion, anger, and then it would be culminated with were winning, were going to get them,' Stanley says. A speech of this method was often very long, with extremes of paranoia and then praise of us, our greatness, and a desire for revenge for lost greatness. When our emotions are being overwhelmed its because people are trying to manipulate us and drive us toward a desired goal. That Trump loves to insult is obvious. But hes actually more extreme in his positive sentiments his own greatness and his paternalistic love for supporters. He couldnt have that sort of negative campaign without also having the positive its the contrast, explains Texas A&M communications professor Jennifer Mercieca, author of a forthcoming book on Trumps rhetoric. His supporters, lovingly embraced, feel as if theyre in on the joke; they know he often lies, but they believe hes lying for them lying to the liars. Us-vs.-them thinking becomes so powerful that the enemys humiliation can be more gratifying than ones own betterment. How to counter this extreme emotion? The evidence that not a single member of Congress comes close to Trumps rhetorical excess raises hope that this will pass. The best opponents can do until then is to cling to truth. Emotion can only overwhelm reason for so long. Follow Dana Milbank on Twitter, @Milbank. Democrats are aggressively pushing late-term abortion, allowing children to be ripped from their mothers womb right up until the moment of birth, President Trump said at a Florida rally earlier this month. The baby is born and you wrap the baby beautifully and you talk to the mother about the possible execution of the baby. For cable news talking heads and leading Democrats, this is a demagogic lie. The fact-checkers mostly say its a distortion and exaggeration and it is. Its a distortion of something Virginia governor Ralph Northam said days before revelations that he dressed in blackface (or in a Klan outfit) during medical school eclipsed the Virginia abortion controversy. Trump has been referencing Northams remarks since January, when Kathy Tran, a Democratic Virginia delegate, introduced legislation to liberalize abortion in her state. During a colloquy with a Republican lawmaker, Tran said her bill would legalize abortions through the 40th week of pregnancy, including during labor. (She later said she misspoke when it was pointed out that this would violate infanticide laws.) The next day, Northam a pediatric neurologist by training appeared on a local radio station to support Tran and her bill. He explained how, in cases where a fetus was not viable, the infant would be delivered, the infant would be kept comfortable, the infant would be resuscitated if this is what the mother and the family desired, and then a discussion would ensue between the physician and the mother. Now, Northam never said anything about executing babies. But Trans legislation would have allowed late-term abortions of viable, non-deformed babies solely if the mothers mental or emotional health was threatened. Trans bill didnt pass, but it was part of a trend in liberal states to loosen abortion laws even further. Earlier in January, Democratic New York governor Andrew Cuomo had signed similar legislation. All of this is worth keeping in mind amid the furor over Alabamas near-total abortion ban. If we go by the attitudes of the American people, both the New York and the Alabama laws are extreme. Polling on abortion is notoriously fraught. Wording matters enormously because many Americans are conflicted on the issue. But generally, most Americans support early-stage abortions, and opposition grows along with the fetus. According to Gallup, 60 percent of Americans support abortion rights in the first trimester, but only 13 percent do in the third trimester. That the media yawned over New Yorks law but remain in a frenzy over Alabamas says a lot about where the press comes down on the issue. But it also speaks to the legal and political landscape. Even Supreme Court justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a strong defender of abortion rights, has called the courts 1973 Roe v. Wade decision a heavy-handed judicial intervention and said she would have preferred that abortion rights were secured more gradually, with greater buy-in at the state level. Under Roe v. Wade (and later Planned Parenthood v. Casey), the court not only imposed one of the most permissive abortion regimes in the world, it foreclosed state-level compromise, galvanizing the pro-life movement and causing both pro-choicers and pro-lifers to take more absolutist positions. Alabamas law is clearly unconstitutional under current precedent. But thats the point. Alabamas GOP legislators deliberately passed an unconstitutional law in the hope that the courts new conservative majority would overthrow Roe and Casey. New Yorks Democratic lawmakers werent trying to test Roe or Casey, but to create a post-Roe abortion sanctuary in case the court does reverse Roe. In other words, Roe is not a moderate ruling. Purely in terms of public attitudes, it permits pro-choice extremism (abortions in the 40th week!) but not pro-life extremism (total bans). Hence, Roe made it necessary for the pro-life movement to embrace an incremental strategy, working to change attitudes, chip away at Roe at the margins, and reduce the abortion rate (with considerable success). But now that some think the brass ring is in sight, the movement has split between incrementalists and those like the sponsors of the Alabama bill who think its worth going for broke. (I think the go-for-broke crowd is miscalculating.) The underlying political reality is that most Americans want a compromise, but the parties are more responsive to the activists and donors. As a result, Democrats have abandoned their safe, legal, and rare rhetoric, while Republicans are downplaying a culture of life. Instead, each seeks to cast the other party as extreme. Republicans highlight rare late-term abortions, and Democrats focus on the also-rare cases of 12-year-olds impregnated by their rapist fathers. Roe created this polarized and polarizing dynamic in which the debate is dominated by the extremes. Overturning Roe and allowing states to pass laws that reflect majority opinion might not defuse the political passion, but at some point we are likely to find out. Jonah Goldberg holds the Asness Chair in Applied Liberty at the American Enterprise Institute and is a senior editor of National Review. - The shortlisted candidates will face audit firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) which was contracted to recruit the next KRA boss - Members of the public were invited to submit information on any of the candidates to help assess their suitability for the job - PwC is expected to find a new commissioner general before June 2019 when the current one is set to exit office - Njiraini was appointed to the helm in 2012 by President Uhuru Kenyatta who was the then minister of finance The race to succeed Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Commissioner General John Njiraini has attracted 30 applicants, but only five have been picked to sweat it out for the top position. The five shortlisted candidates are Duncan Otieno Onduru, James Githii Mburu, Julius Waita Mwatu, Richard Boro Ndung'u and Andrew Kazora Okello. READ ALSO: Kenya Revenue Authority decry missing KSh 2.7 billion revenue from betting wins due to court order John Njiraini has been the Kenya Revenue Authority commissioner-general since March 2012. He was appointed by Uhuru Kenyatta, then Minister of Finance. Photo: Kenya News Today. Source: UGC READ ALSO: MCA wa Kiambu akamatwa kwa kuendesha gari lenye picha za DP Ruto kama Amiri Jeshi Mkuu In a public notice published on Tuesday, May 28, KRA stated 28 men and two women had applied for the job by the deadline, after which the applications were carefully scrutinised and five of them shortlisted. "The applications were scrutinised for conformity with the requirements published in the media advertisements, following which the KRA board approved five candidates for attendance of final interviews," the authority noted. READ ALSO: Matiangi sets ablaze KSh 30 million betting machines as he declares war against gambling The front runners are expected to face a recruitment panel constituted by audit firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) which was contracted to find the next KRA boss. The authority invited members of the public to submit before May 31, 2019, any information they may have on any of the shortlisted candidates and which can help assess their suitability for the crucial assignment. READ ALSO: Edward Ouko: End of era looms for Kenya's fearless, daring auditor general PricewaterhouseCoopers is expected to recruit a new commissioner general before June 2019 when Njiraini is set to exit office. He was appointed to the position in March 2012 by President Uhuru Kenyatta who was the then minister of finance. Njiraini was previously the commissioner for domestic taxes and large taxpayers office where he served between February 2006 and February 2012. READ ALSO: Auditor General accuses Alfred Mutuas government of concealing crucial documents He was expected to retired upon attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60 on December 19, 2017, but attempts to replace him were thwarted when the government removed the retirement age of CEOs of state corporations. Do you have a life-changing story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690 and Telegram: Tuko news. I Was Accused of Killing My Classmate - On Tuko TV Source: TUKO.co.ke By Jun Ji-hye Huawei officials have been rushing to meet with key executives of Samsung Electronics, SK hynix and other Korean tech companies to maintain business ties, according to industry sources here, Monday. The move comes at a time when global tech giants including Google and ARM have suspended deals with the Chinese company following the U.S. government's decision to blacklist the Chinese tech giant amid the prolonged trade war between Washington and Beijing. The U.S. has also been pressuring Korea through various diplomatic channels to join its anti-Huawei campaign. Huawei officials met with key executives of Samsung Display and LG Display as well as Samsung Electronics and SK hynix last week, asking them to continue to supply components. "Huawei officials claimed the U.S. government restrictions are unreasonable," said an official at one of the companies, who declined to be named. Since the Donald Trump administration effectively barred U.S. firms from selling components and software to Huawei, a slew of companies there including Google, Qualcomm and Intel have severed business ties with the Chinese company. Amid the turmoil, Korean companies, especially those in the IT sector, have been undecided over the issue as Korea is one of the major allies of the U.S., but at the same time has close economic ties with China. Huawei reportedly bought components worth $10.6 billion from Korean companies last year. Samsung Electronics and SK hynix have supplied semiconductors, while Samsung Display and LG Display have supplied display panels. Samsung Electro-Mechanics and LG Innotek are camera module suppliers to the Chinese firm. According to a business report issued by Samsung Electronics, Huawei was one of the five major clients of the Korean tech giant, alongside Apple and AT&T. SK hynix's supply of semiconductors to the Chinese company has taken a huge part of its sales as well. Industry analysts say Huawei could suffer a serious blow in its shipments and market share if the U.S. and China fail to make progress in their negotiations before the firm's current stock runs out. The Billie A. Hall American Legion Post 17 hosted a Memorial Day commemoration Monday at Woodland Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed the last Monday in May to honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. Military. This year, Candace Marshall sang the National Anthem at the commemoration, Katie McInnis sang God Bless America, State Rep. Jadine Nollan delivered the keynote address and a group laid wreaths for the Billie A. Hall Post 17, the Unit 17 Auxiliary, Poppy, Gold Star Mothers, Blue Star Mothers, Prisoners of War, Vietnam veteran and Sons of the Legion. Its an honor to be here today to honor those who served, Nollan said in her address. They sacrificed everythingthey did it for usits not just the soldiersits a big sacrifice for their families, too. Karen Cruice laid the wreath for the Billie A. Hall Post 17, Debra Bunch laid the wreath for the Unit 17 Auxiliary, JayCee Coble laid the wreath for Poppy, Janice Bellew laid the wreath for Gold Star Mothers, Kim McInnis laid the wreath for Blue Star Mothers, Mitchell Heidorn laid the wreath for Prisoners of War, former Mayor and veteran Mike Burdge laid the wreath for Vietnam veterans and Ryan George laid the wreath for Sons of the Legion. Rachel Snyder 918-581-8315 rachel.snyder@sandspringsleader.com "People ignoring barricades has resulted in several emergency water rescues over the past few days, endangering those who drove into water and those who had to rescue them," she added. With increased water everywhere, city officials are cognizant that West Nile virus may be an increasing threat. Residents should use bug spray when outside and protect themselves from mosquitoes as much as possible. Residents are also reminded to not allow children or others to play in the flood waters. "Not only are the currents dangerous, but debris and the possible contaminants are equally dangerous," Vavrinak said. "River and creek banks and areas near the water are eroding and unstable. Don't go look at the water." In response to rising water south of Coweta, the city is building a temporary earthen dike around the City of Coweta wastewater treatment plant to protect it. Water conservation efforts should also continue until notified otherwise by the City of Coweta. Brocksmith said he didnt want to get the landowner in trouble but thought chicken litter for fertilizer needs to be covered or contained when stored, so he notified the Oklahoma Department of Food, Forestry and Agriculture. This is a spot less than 5 miles from one of Oklahomas most beautiful parks and a lake that is a state jewel, he said. He looked at the piles eight days later, and it appeared some of the material was pulled off the pile to create a berm around the piles. I couldnt understand the idea of creating a berm out of chicken litter to contain a pile of chicken litter, he said. Department spokeswoman Morgan Vance said the department did look into the matter and that the landowner said the berms were more dirt than chicken litter, but the point was moot because the litter was purchased by a private landowner and rules that apply to licensed poultry waste applicators do not apply to farmers as long as the placement doesnt affect the water supply. Hametts attorney, John Russell, told Eagan he had confidence that Hamett would not reoffend, but he conceded that he could not provide any guarantee that nothing will ever happen. Russell said a review of defendants with a similar criminal history who were sentenced in 2018 for kidnapping found the average prison term to be about 15 years. A term closer to 20 years in prison would have the effect of a life sentence for Hamett, Russell said. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Gallant argued for a life term, saying the victim has been scarred for life by the ordeal and that she shouldnt have to hope for the best if Hamett is ever released from prison. Testimony during the July 2018 trial revealed that on April 25, 2017, Hamett tunneled through a bedroom wall at his ex-wifes home to bypass her security system. Once inside, Hamett waited for his her to return to her Broken Arrow home and confronted her with a stun gun and her own pistol when she arrived. All other pets can go to the temporary shelter at Tulsa Expo Square Fairground Pavilion (south entrance) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The temporary pet shelter at the fairgrounds is accepting pet food, blankets and towels. For large animal shelter requests, please contact 211. Security on the rise to prevent looting in evacuated areas Tulsa County Commissioner Karen Keith has arranged for the National Guard to patrol the Town and Country addition west of Sand Springs. Keith on Monday said she made the request to prevent looting and just to give the neighborhood some sense of security. The troops were expected to arrive Monday. In Tulsa, Deputy Chief Jonathan Brooks said there have been no specific looting problems in the city. Brooks said Tulsa police are focused on that issue and have dedicated personnel to cover high-risk areas. There are officers assigned and on patrol in both marked and unmarked capacities, Brooks said. There are many workers in the neighborhoods, so if someone is concerned they can call it in and we will handle it. Do not do that, he said. What you need to do is take pictures, document everything, document damage well and then get to tearing out and clean up, because youre going to suffer more damage if you just leave it there and try to wait for someone. Homeowners without flood insurance who plan to seek federal assistance should not file a claim with their insurance company, Mulready said. Contact your agent, he said. They know you dont have flood insurance. Theyll send you a letter saying you dont have flood insurance (and) youll have a copy of your homeowners policy that will help with FEMA down the road. But some companies do change their rates based on claims filed, whether a claim is paid or not not all of them, but some. He cautioned that it would be up to FEMA to determine what level of assistance the agency provides property owners and that the process could take longer than a private insurance company policy claim. But, yeah, there will hopefully be some sort of assistance, he said. A Huawei company logo is seen at the security exhibition in Shanghai, China May 24. Reuters Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei is reviewing its relationship with FedEx Corp after it claimed the U.S. package delivery company, without detailed explanation, diverted two parcels destined for Huawei addresses in Asia to the United States and attempted to reroute two others. Huawei told Reuters on Friday that FedEx diverted two packages sent from Japan and addressed to Huawei in China to the United States, and attempted to divert two more packages sent from Vietnam to Huawei offices elsewhere in Asia, all without authorisation, providing images of FedEx tracking records. Reuters could not verify the authenticity of the records. Shown the images of the tracking records, FedEx declined to make any comment, saying company policy prevented it from disclosing customer information. Huawei said the four packages only contained documents and "no technology," which Reuters was unable to independently confirm. Huawei declined to elaborate on why it thought the packages were diverted. Reuters was given no evidence the incident was related to the U.S. government's move to place Huawei and its affiliates on a trade blacklist in mid-May, effectively banning U.S. firms from doing business with them on security grounds. "The recent experiences where important commercial documents sent via FedEx were not delivered to their destination, and instead were either diverted to, or were requested to be diverted to, FedEx in the United States, undermines our confidence," Joe Kelly, a spokesman for Huawei, told Reuters. "We will now have to review our logistics and document delivery support requirements as a direct result of these incidents," the spokesman said. Huawei acknowledged to Reuters that one package originating in Vietnam was received by Friday, and the other was on its way, according to FedEx tracking records provided by Huawei. FedEx spokeswoman Maury Donahue told Reuters the packages were "misrouted in error" and that FedEx was not requested to divert them by any other party. "This is an isolated issue limited to a very small number of packages," said FedEx, referring to the four parcels affected. "We are aware of all shipments at issue and are working directly with our customers to return the packages to their possession." The U.S. Department of Commerce did not reply to a request for comment on whether the incident might be related to its move on May 16 to add Huawei to the so-called "Entity List," preventing it buying certain items from U.S. companies without U.S. government approval. FORMAL COMPLAINT The United States believes Huawei, the world's largest telecom network gear maker leading the way in creating the next generation of wireless networks known as 5G, is a potential espionage threat because of its close ties with the Chinese government. Huawei has repeatedly denied it is controlled by the Chinese government, military or intelligence services. The issue has become a flashpoint in an escalating trade battle between the world's two biggest economies. The two packages sent on May 19 and May 20 from Tokyo, intended for Huawei in China, ended up in Memphis, Tennessee, the headquarters of the U.S. company, by May 23, according to images of FedEx tracking records shown to Reuters by Huawei. The two packages originating from Hanoi on May 17, destined for Huawei's Hong Kong and Singapore offices, were held up after arriving in local FedEx stations in Hong Kong and Singapore on May 21 for "delivery exception," according to other images Huawei showed Reuters. According to FedEx's website, the status "exception" means an unexpected event is preventing delivery of a package, for example a customs delay, a holiday, or no one being available to accept delivery. FedEx declined to give details on what the exception was in this case. According to Huawei, a FedEx customer service representative in Vietnam replied to their inquiry on May 22 when two expected packages did not arrive on time, saying: "Please be informed that FDX SG received notification from FDX US to hold and return the package to US. Hence, the shipment is not deliver to consignee and now being hold at FDX station and under process to RTS it (return to sender)," the representative wrote in broken English, according to an email Huawei showed to Reuters. Huawei told Reuters that both Vietnam packages were sent by its shipping agent, a contractor to Huawei whom it did not identify, and contained urgent documents. It said the shipping agent refused permission for FedEx to send the packages to the United States and instructed they be returned, Huawei told Reuters. Reuters could not confirm that. Huawei told Reuters it only learned that the Japan-originated packages, which were sent by suppliers that it did not identify, had been diverted to the United States after checking FedEx's tracking record. The company said it has lodged a formal complaint with China's postal regulator, which it said is investigating the incident. China's State Postal Bureau did not return a request for comment. (Reuters) NHK national television, citing officials, said that a man with a knife attacked people lined up at the bus stop in Kawasaki City. The report, quoting police, said the wounded were rushed to nearby hospitals, but one child and two adults were believed to have died. An official with the Kawasaki fire department said one person was believed killed. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasnt authorized to speak to the media. NHK said the attacker was captured, and two knives were found at the spot. No other details, including the mans identity and motives, were immediately known. Police union criticized, called youths criminals BALTIMORE The union representing the Baltimore Police Departments rank-and-file officers stirred controversy on social media by calling some youths criminals after officers arrested several people while responding to a large gathering at the Inner Harbor. The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 3 wrote late Saturday on Twitter that while some officers were responding to a crowd of rowdy young people, they should Protect each other and dont fall into the trap they are only kids. NORMAN Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter on Tuesday told a Cleveland County district judge that greedy opioid makers were responsible for drug addictions and deaths and have created the worst man-made public health crisis in the state. An attorney for one of the drugmakers argued that the company supplied medication that was regulated by the government and lawfully prescribed by doctors. Opening statements in Oklahomas lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson and its affiliate Janssen Pharmaceuticals began Tuesday before Cleveland County District Judge Thad Balkman, who will ultimately rule in the case. Two other companies, Purdue and Teva, reached settlements with the state before the trial began. The trial has drawn international media attention. Some consider it a litmus test for cases against opioid makers in other states. In their zeal to provide a magic drug, Hunter said in his opening statement, the companies ignored science. Money may not be the root of all evil, but it can make people and businesses do bad things, the attorney general said. He accused the company of a multimillion-dollar brainwashing campaign to sell more drugs. The pressures weighed on volunteers, Berquist told The Washington Post. "As time pushes on in a search, it's natural for people to lose a little bit of faith," he said. "It starts to play with your mind the longer you're out there and not finding her." Coordinators set up a yurt in a parking lot, where volunteers, sometimes numbering 150 in a day, received their orders based on ability and skill. Those who could not hike ran tables at the base camp where nurses were on stand by. Experienced backcountry hikers fanned deep into the bush. Drone operators took to the skies, and hunters, rock climbers and rappellers carved out terrain to search. "The terrain there is pretty rough, there are a lot of trees down and a lot of confusing side trails," said Elena Pray, a rappelling guide on Maui who volunteered for nearly the entire search effort. Berquist, who said he had experience with EMS operations and cave rescues, warned each of them to be careful. "We don't need any more victims," he told one group. As the days wore on, Eller's father's tech background became key to search efforts. WASHINGTON The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has just released its latest statistics on U.S. births. Boring, you say. Not so. Historic birth patterns tell us a lot about where the country has been and where it might be going. We are now experiencing some of the lowest birth figures ever. In 2018, U.S. births totaled 3.788 million, the lowest figure in 32 years. And the so-called replacement rate the average number of children each woman must have to stabilize the population, disregarding immigration is roughly 2.1 children for every woman. The same replacement rate is also expressed as 2,100 lifetime births per 1,000 women. In 2018, the actual number was 1,728. This was the lowest since at least 1909, when records were first kept, and probably the lowest in U.S. history, because women in the 19th century typically had many children, notes statistician Brady Hamilton of the National Center for Health Statistics. Congratulations to legislators who stuck to their guns on a proposal to bring more competition to Oklahoma drug stores. Prescription benefit managers commonly referred to as PBMs are supposed to reduce prescription drug costs to insurance companies by encouraging the use of generic drugs, negotiating rebates from manufacturers, managing high-cost medications and reducing waste. All of that is good, but small drug stores complain that the PBMs have increasingly been in the business of helping big chains grow their market shares by freezing out independent competition. To address the issue, the Oklahoma Legislature overwhelmingly approved Senate Bill 841 earlier this year. The bill would have banned PBMs from blocking qualifying drug stores from their customer networks. Not one legislator voted against the bill, but under strong pressure from the Oklahoma State Chamber, Gov. Kevin Stitt vetoed it. Letter writer Denny Kaufman seemed upset the Tulsa World published columnist George Will and not Pat Buchanan ("Never Trumpers," May 21). An example of a column by Buchanan the writer suggested was "Tarriffs, the Taxes That Made America." I looked that up. Buchanan correctly states that taxes are a tax on consumers of goods meant to encourage the consumption of goods produced locally. He points to a "huge trade imbalance" with China. What Buchanan fails to understand is that the world economy is very different today. A huge part of the economy is information based, much of it produced by America and consumed by the rest of the world. We sell much of this information via subscriptions or by using it to drive advertising. While other countries could put a tariff on access to information, in order to push their citizens to consume information produced locally, this is impractical and unwise. The Acting Top Cop says he is confident there will not be chaos and fallout in the police se Huawei plans to open its world's first 5G open lab in Seoul this week, but will not hold a media event amid U.S. sanctions. / Reuters-Yonhap By Jun Ji-hye Huawei has decided to substantially scale down marketing and publicity activities for the opening of its first fifth-generation (5G) open lab in Seoul amid the increasing U.S. pressure on Korea to join its anti-Huawei campaign. The Chinese tech giant, which will open the 5G open lab in central Seoul on Thursday, had planned originally to hold a press conference on the eve of the opening ceremony for a large marketing campaign. But the firm decided recently to cancel the media event. The opening ceremony is also expected to be low-key as no Korean government officials or politicians will participate amid the prolonged trade war between Washington and Beijing. "We will open the 5G open lab as planned, but there will be no media event," a Huawei official said. "The lab will offer medium-sized and small enterprises as well as startups opportunities to develop and test their systems and services in the 5G environment." Earlier this year, Huawei announced a plan to establish 5G open labs in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Among the three regions, the Chinese firm decided to open the first lab in Seoul as Korea, which commercialized the world's first 5G network services in April, was considered an optimal location for the firm to expand its 5G-related business. But Huawei has faced a crisis after the Donald Trump administration effectively barred U.S. firms from selling components and software to the Chinese tech giant, citing security concerns. The U.S. has also been pressuring Korea through various diplomatic channels to boycott the Chinese firm at a time when other U.S. allies including Japan have sided with Washington. The Chinese firm's decision not to hold the media event for the opening of its Seoul lab was construed as its effort to prevent its Korean partner companies from being misunderstood and suffering damage. Several companies here that are in business relationships with Huawei have already seen a fall in their stock prices amid U.S. sanctions against the Chinese tech powerhouse. "Huawei will have no choice but to be cautious as a media event at this time could only lead to negative publicity," said an official from a telecom firm in Seoul, asking not to be named. The Ministry of Science and ICT also appears to have been put in an awkward position as it has no right to disapprove the opening of a laboratory of a private company. The situation in the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) area in Donbas is controlled. Ukrainian Joint Forces Commander, Lieutenant-General Oleksandr Syrsky reported this to President Volodymyr Zelensky during the meeting in Donetsk region on May 27, 2019, the press center of the JFO Headquarters reports. The meeting was also attended by Chief of the General Staff - Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Ruslan Khomchak and representatives of the security forces involved in the operation. As Ukrinform reported, on Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made his first working visit to Luhansk region where he inspected the frontline positions of Ukrainian military in Stanytsia Luhanska and Shchastia. The head of state talked with soldiers about living conditions, food quality, equipment, housing, social package and staffing of units. In Stanytsia Luhanska, the president visited the frontline, in particular, the observation post and trench shelters. ish Ukrainian Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak and U.S. Senator James Lankford discussed security in Ukraine in the context of Russias armed aggression. The press service of the Defense Ministry of Ukraine reported this on Tuesday. "Today, May 28, Ukrainian Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak and U.S. Senator James Lankford held a meeting in Kyiv. During the meeting, the sides discussed security in the region, threats and challenges facing the Armed Forces and Ukraine as a whole, and also exchanged views on the possibilities of their solution," the report says. The minister expressed gratitude to the senator for the consistent support of the United States for Ukraine in the times of Russias armed aggression. Social Policy Minister of Ukraine Andriy Reva has held a working meeting with representatives of the mission of the International Monetary Funds European Department and Mission Chief for Ukraine Ron Van Rooden. The meeting was also attended by representatives of the social policy ministry and the finance ministry, according to the Government portal. The main issues discussed during the meeting were: the utility subsidy program and the results of the 2018-2019 heating season; preliminary results of the pension reform and medium-term budget outlook. Also, the political situation in Ukraine has been put on the agenda of the IMF. In particular, this concerns the early resignation of the government, which may be considered by Ukraines financial donors as a factor of economic and social destabilization. At the same time, Reva stated: There is no threat to economic stability in Ukraine. Despite the election campaign, the government intends to ensure stability for the transition period... Our policy will continue to be predictable throughout this entire transition period. Moreover, Ill say that there are currently various radical statements and I would ask to consider them as final phenomena of the election race." Reva thanked the IMF mission for the work carried out to support reforms in Ukraine, as well as for understanding of Ukraines specifics. According to the minister, the International Monetary Funds European Department has managed to encourage many people to change. The head of the mission, in turn, said that the IMF sincerely wishes Ukraine to develop as a civilized European state and will fully support these aspirations of the Ukrainian people. Ron Van Rooden also noted that Ukraine had managed to carry out efficient reforms in recent years, in particular, pension and subsidy programs. iy A total of 6,800 km of roads of state and local importance have been built in Ukraine over the past three years. First Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Economic Development and Trade Stepan Kubiv stated this at the VIII International Conference UkrCemFor 2019, the ministrys press service reported. "Construction of roads, schools, hospitals, social infrastructure objects is one of the key positive factors for economic growth in Ukraine. Over the past three years, we have built 6,800 km of roads of state and local importance and envisaged UAH 55.1 billion for roads in the 2019 budget. Roads must be of high-quality, meet the best world standards and expectations of citizens," said Kubiv. He noted that for the successful development of construction and road industry, the government has created a transparent and fair competition on the market so that to stimulate innovation and update production capacities. iy The Chinese company Skywell will launch the production of electric buses in Ukraine, the company's press service reports on Facebook. "Today we met honored guests from China specialists in the development of electric bus technologies. We discussed the possibility and technologies of organizing SKD assembly of the electric buses Skywell in Ukraine. So ... we will produce the electric buses Skywell in Ukraine," reads the statement. According to the Ukrainian Representative Office of Skywell, there is no specific information yet. The negotiations are underway with various parties and participants. Timing, technology and processes are being determined. In addition, Skywell said that "much will depend on the new president." The company also reported that the Chinese side was ready to become a co-founder of the enterprise for the production of electric buses in Ukraine. ish On Thursday, May 30, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas and French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian will pay a visit to Ukraine. Ukrinform learnt this from Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration Vadym Prystaiko, who had a number of working meetings in Berlin on Monday. On May 30, the foreign ministers of France and Germany will visit Ukraine, Prystaiko said. Ukraine's Ambassador to Germany Andriy Melnyk also confirmed that the visit of the German foreign minister was being prepared. It is very important and symbolic that Member of the Federal Government, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas will visit Kyiv already on the tenth day after the inauguration of President Volodymyr Zelensky. We consider this a sign of strong political support for Ukraine from our strategic partner, the diplomat said. According to our diplomatic sources, the foreign guests intend to meet with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin, and the possibility of meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky is also being considered. ish President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone conversation with newly elected President of Lithuania Gitanas Nauseda and congratulated him on the convincing victory in the election. Volodymyr Zelensky wished Gitanas Nauseda success in developing the Lithuanian state, the press service of the head of state has reported. The president also thanked the Lithuanian party for the unwavering political support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the assistance in strengthening the defense capability of our country. The head of state noted the important role of Lithuania in supporting the course of European and Euro-Atlantic integration of Ukraine. In addition, the parties confirmed mutual willingness to strengthen strategic partnership between Ukraine and Lithuania and to enhance bilateral cooperation in all areas of mutual interest. The Ukrainian president and his Lithuanian counterpart agreed to maintain a dialogue and discussed further bilateral contacts. ish The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) sent 21 trucks carrying humanitarian aid to the temporarily occupied territories of Donbas, according to the press service of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine. "Twenty one trucks from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation to the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine crossed the Novotroitske checkpoint," the report says. The trucks were carrying 420 tonnes of humanitarian cargo consisting of water treatment chemicals for the residents of Donetsk and Luhansk regions. ish A Twitterstorm demanding the release of Ukrinform journalist Roman Sushchenko, illegally convicted in Russia, begins on Tuesday, May 28, PEN Ukraine has reported on its Facebook page. "Today, at 10:00 New York time, or 17:00 Kyiv time, a Twitterstorm is being launched in support of and demanding the release of Ukrinform journalist Roman Sushchenko who spends his 970th day behind bars in a Russian prison, having been illegally convicted on politically motivated charges," the report reads. PEN Ukraine called on all those who have Twitter accounts to join in: "When we are many our voice will be heard!" According to the report, people can write any text they find appropriate, but they need to make sure they use the hashtag #FreeSushchenko. "Pay attention to the spelling 'shch,' so that all messages are under this one hashtag," PEN Ukraine said. On Tuesday, May 28, the Ukrainian Institute of America in New York will host an exhibition of Roman Sushchenko's drawings and an event dedicated to the illegally imprisoned Ukrainian journalist and other prisoners of the Kremlin. Ukrinform's Paris-based correspondent Roman Sushchenko was illegally detained on September 30, 2016 in Moscow, where he arrived on a private trip. On October 7, 2016, he was charged with "espionage." Russia's FSB claimed that Sushchenko is a member of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry. The latter denied this allegation. On June 4, 2018, the Moscow City Court sentenced Sushchenko to 12 years in a high-security penal colony. The Supreme Court of Russia upheld the verdict on September 12. On November 7, the Russian Federal Penitentiary Service (FSIN) informed Ukraine's Embassy in Moscow that Sushchenko had been transferred to Penal Colony No. 11 of the FSIN directorate for the Kirov region (the town of Kirovo-Chepetsk, the village of Utrobino). op 05/16/2019 Lowell Sun By Emma R. Murphy LOWELL An empty UMass Lowell picture frame sits in Edina Hirt's living room. The frame has served as a source of motivation for Hirt, who is the first in her family to attend college. It is what Hirt's husband of 17 years, Carlos, would point to on the bad days when the pain of her cancer became too much. "He would point at it and say 'I want to see a picture of you there, I want to have a picture of you in that frame' and I would smile and say 'yes, yes I can make this work,'" Hirt said. "So here I am." On Saturday Hirt will be among UMass Lowell's 3,133 undergraduates receiving their bachelor's degrees. After she leads her fellow graduates into the Tsongas Center carrying the flag for the Honors College, Hirt will be recognized with a Chancellor's Medal for Community Service. She will also be graduating summa cum laude. The Class of 2019, totaling over 4,000 students including graduate students, is the largest class in the university's history. To accommodate the large class, the university will hold three ceremonies; one on Friday for graduate students and two on Saturday for undergraduates. U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan, who represents Massachusetts' Third District, will give the commencement speech in the Saturday morning ceremony and Jack Wilson, president emeritus of the University of Massachusetts system, will be the Saturday afternoon commencement speaker. UMass Lowell Distinguishes University Professor Meg Bond will deliver the Friday commencement address. "Graduates at each of UMass Lowell's commencement ceremonies will hear from leaders in education, entrepreneurship, gender equity and government," UMass Lowell Chancellor Jacquie Moloney said in a news release. "We are honored to have them address our Class of 2019." Hirt's path to graduation, to putting a picture in that UMass Lowell frame, has not been an easy one. In 2006, Hirt and her husband moved from her native Brazil to Everett, before later moving to Lowell. Hirt, who did not speak English, enrolled at Middlesex Community College in 2011 where she took night classes while working as a house cleaner during the day. Her dream was to attend college, she said, so she did everything she could to learn English from reading books and listening to the radio to watching television with subtitles. Hirt did so well on her placement exam that she was placed in a writing class with American students, not international students as she expected. It was overwhelming. On her first day of class Hirt called her husband sobbing, telling him she could not do it. "He said 'you can, I know you're stubborn, you can, you're not giving up,'" Hirt said. Hirt did not give up - even in April 2017 when she was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. By that time Hirt was a psychology major at UMass Lowell. Professors asked her if she needed to take a break but Hirt declined, only asking for extensions. She took her books to chemotherapy and poured herself into her work. "I think it's a dream, when you have something you really want to do, you focus on that and you keep going," Hirt said. There were times when Hirt felt like giving up, times when she broke down in tears in her professors' offices, but Hirt said the support from her husband, family and professors made the difference. Hirt's work has included developing a website for the university that links people looking for volunteer opportunities with Lowell organizations in need of volunteers. The site, which launched in January, currently lists 90 organizations. "It was a process of connecting with everybody, it's not only my project it's UMass Lowell's project," Hirt said. Though she is graduating, Hirt plans to continue working on the website and raising awareness about it. Her vision is for every student on campus to use the site. "When you do volunteer work you open your horizons," she said. Hirt's cancer has been in remission for a year and seven months. Cancer changed her perspective and has given Hirt a new drive. "It's to give everything I can possibly give, it's to do my best," Hirt said. "It's for me like the clock is running fast and I gotta get things done. It's passion." The chancellor's medal is one of several that Hirt has received for her work. In recent weeks she was recognized by the Psychology Department for excellence in community service, the university awarded her the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award for Distinguished Service and the Department of Higher Education recognized her in its "29 Who Shine" program as one of the state's exceptional public college students. "I'm like overwhelmed with all this love," Hirt said. Recently, "29 Who Shine" brought Hirt to the state house where she met Governor Charlie Baker. "My mom is amazed she's like 'oh my god my little one who came from the poor country side in Brazil now she's in the United States taking photos with the governor, this is too much,'" Hirt said with a laugh. When fall semester starts, Hirt will return to campus to start pursuing her masters degree. Hyundai Heavy Industries union members clash with non-union employees as they try to enter the firm's office in Ulsan, Monday. / Courtesy of Hyundai Heavy Industries By Baek Byung-yeul The labor-management conflict at Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) has been escalating as union workers intensify their protest against the company's decision to merge with Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME), according to company officials Tuesday. The HHI union has been staging walkouts in Seoul and its headquarters in Ulsan since May 16 and the protest has turned into violent clashes between union and non-union employees. HHI said it filed a complaint with the police against more than 60 union members for leading violent clashes when about 500 union members tried to enter the firm's office building in Ulsan Monday. While entering the building the union members clashed with non-union employees and dozens of people were injured, the firm said. The firm also filed a complaint with police in Seoul against dozens of union members for obstruction of business and assault as the union members allegedly rammed police officers when staging a walkout near the firm's Seoul office on May 22. "We will also respond strictly to the union's illegal action against the firm," a spokesman of the firm said. Since Monday, the union also has occupied Hanmaum Center, an art center in Ulsan where the firm's shareholders' meeting will take place. It added it launched a large-scale walkout with 8,000 union members starting Tuesday and will continue the strikes until May 31 when the plan to split HHI into two entities is scheduled to be proposed. The confrontation between the union and management came after HHI said it will split into two entities as the first step for merging with DSME. HHI agreed to merge with the industry's No.2 shipbuilder DSME in March to enhance its competitiveness, but unions expressed their concerns over possible job cuts after the division. Speaking of the local community's concern, an HHI spokesman said "only 50 employees will be transferred to a sub-holding company in Seoul, which will be spun off from HHI to take control of the combined shipbuilding firm and the rest of the employees will stay in Ulsan." He added, "To dispel such uncertainties and concerns, HHI released full-page ads in local newspapers in Ulsan on Monday that contain a statement from us." The official of the firm said the merger process will not be concluded within 2019 as there are many hurdles to overcome. "The split-up plan is only the first step in a lengthy merger process," the HHI spokesman said. "We have to get approval from the Fair Trade Commission here and still have to win approvals from antitrust regulatory bodies in other countries including the European Union, China, Japan and so on." After the merger plan was announced, HHI has been criticized by local residents in Ulsan who fear losing their jobs. Ka Sam-hyun, one of the co-CEOs of HHI, forecasted the merger process will be completed in 2020. "Before applying for the approvals of the merger from antitrust agencies here and abroad, we are now in preliminary discussions. We expect the evaluation process will be done next year," Ka told reporters Monday when asked about the progress of the merger. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres dropped by on Monday to listen to a music workshop in Vienna that featured refugees and world famous cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Guterres was in town to mark the 40th anniversary of the Vienna International Centre, which is home to several UN agencies. Is it really him? I didnt know he was coming, said Khalid Hussein, 21, a refugee from Somalia as Guterres arrived with the workshop in full swing. I am very excited to see him. Guterres said music is crucial as a symbol of the UNs values. Music is a universal language. Music brings us together. Music is a symbol of peace. But at the same time music represents diversity And that diversity is an enormous richness, he said. Eighty people including 10 refugees with ages ranging from six to 60 participated in the workshop with Ma, who has won 19 Grammy awards. They prepared an old song from Spains Andalusia region by first dividing the mixed-ability participants into two groups and getting them to learn different rhythms. "Music is a universal language. Music brings us together." This exercise symbolises what the UN does. Two groups will do one thing together that before they were doing separately, said Ma, who is on a two-year tour playing a programme of six Bach suites in 36 locations across six continents. Cellist Yo-Yo Ma welcomes UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, while the president of Caritas Austria, Michael Landau, looks on. UNHCR/ Stefanie J. Steindl UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and participants at a music workshop in the Austrian capital listen to cellist Yo-Yo Ma and musicians Marwan Abado and Basma Jabr. UNHCR/ Stefanie J. Steindl Cellist Yo-Yo Ma plays with refugees at a music workshop in Vienna. UNHCR/ Stefanie J. Steindl Noor Albaradan, 18, a refugee from Syria, was happy to see the Chinese-American cellist. I am a big fan of Yo-Yo Ma, he said. I actually know him from a movie called If I Stay. In the movie, the characterss first date is to a Yo-Yo Ma concert. After seeing that, I kept listening to his music day and night. The workshop took place far from Viennas glittering concert halls at Brunnenpassage, a cultural centre near a bustling market in the citys multi-ethnic 16th district. Nigerian refugees seek shelter in Diffa, Niger, in June 2016. UNHCR/Ibrahim Abdou Recent spike in violence in north-western parts of Nigeria has forced an estimated 20,000 people to seek safety and security in Niger since April. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is concerned about deteriorating security inside Nigeria, and is working closely with authorities in Niger to provide basic assistance and register the new arrivals. More than 18,000 people have already gone through the initial registration process so far. The latest upsurge in violence is not linked to Boko Haram. People are reportedly fleeing due to multiple reasons, including clashes between farmers and herders of different ethnic groups, vigilantism, as well as kidnappings for ransom in Nigerias Sokoto and Zamfara States. People leaving Nigeria, and arriving in Nigers Maradi Region, speak of witnessing extreme violence unleashed against civilians, including machete attacks, kidnappings and sexual violence. The majority of the new arrivals are women and children. The ongoing Boko Haram insurgency has already spilled over into Niger, where it has affected its Diffa region since 2015. The region currently hosts almost 250,000 displaced people including refugees from Nigeria and locals being displaced inside their own country. Niger continues to be a leading regional example in providing safety to refugees fleeing conflict and persecution in many countries. It has kept its borders open for refugees despite the ongoing violence in several regions bordering Nigeria, Mali and recently Burkina Faso. Many of the newly arrived are located very close to the Nigerian border, where there remains a high risk of armed incursions. UNHCR with sister UN agencies and partners is discussing with the government the possibility of relocating them into local towns and villages further in land. As well as providing aid to Nigerian new arrivals, UNHCR also plans to support host families, who despite lack of adequate resources and access to basic services, have always shown solidarity towards the displaced and welcomed people into their homes. Since the beginning of 2018, violence within the Diffa region perpetrated by elements of Boko Haram has also significantly escalated with a record number of civilian casualties and unprecedented secondary movements within the region. Niger is currently hosting over 380,000 refugees and asylum seekers from Mali and Nigeria as well as its own internally displaced population. The country has also provided refuge to some 2,782 asylum seekers airlifted from insecurity in Libya, while awaiting durable solutions. For more information on this topic, please contact: The banks are: PJSC Credit Agricole Bank (CAB), ProCredit Bank (Ukraine) (PCB), and PRAVEX-BANK JSC (PXB). Fitch Ratings has affirmed three Ukrainian foreign-owned banks' Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Ratings (IDRs) at 'B-' and their Long-Term Local-Currency IDRs at 'B' with stable outlooks. Read alsoFitch affirms Naftogaz at 'B-' with stable outlook The banks are: PJSC Credit Agricole Bank (CAB), ProCredit Bank (Ukraine) (PCB), and PRAVEX-BANK JSC (PXB), Fitch Ratings said in a press release on its website. The affirmation of the Long-Term IDRs reflects Fitch's unchanged view of support prospects for the banks. As UNIAN reported earlier, in March 2019, Fitch Ratings affirmed Ukraine's Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at 'B-' with a stable outlook. Experts forecast record high cherry crop in Ukraine in 2019 12:49, 28.05.19 1440 Ukrainians will buy sweet cherry in June at last year's prices, or even slightly cheaper. Ukraine boosts steel output in April, ranks 12th in WSA's rating 14:45, 28.05.19 1341 In general, 64 countries ranked by the WSA increased steel output by 6.4% in April 2019 from March 2018, to 156 million tonnes. PrivatBank appeals court decision to cancel its nationalization 16:29, 28.05.19 1253 Earlier, the government and the National Bank of Ukraine took similar actions regarding the decisions of Kyiv's District Administrative Court. IMF experts are ready to come to Kyiv after the parliamentary elections. The International Monetary Fund says it sees no obstacles to further cooperation with Ukraine. "We do not see obstacles to cooperation. After the parliamentary elections, after the government is formed, we are ready to come to Kyiv immediately and continue negotiations on the way to provide our support," Ron van Rooden, the head of the visiting IMF mission, was quoted as saying during a meeting with new Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on May 28, the presidential press service said. According to him, a decision to hold early parliamentary elections in Ukraine has opened up new opportunities for accelerating changes in the country. Zelensky, in turn, said that the decision was influenced by several factors. Read alsoIMF set to continue talks with Ukraine after parliament elections "Cooperation is being continued. The International Monetary Fund has always been a reliable partner of Ukraine in times when we need support, and Ukraine, for its part, will also remain a partner in fulfilling its obligations. Unfortunately, we are currently observing a delay in adopting the reformist draft laws long-awaited by citizens, businesses and financial community. I am hopeful that the parliament of the new convocation will make up for this and provide a basis for receiving a new disbursement from the Fund," Zelensky said. "The next [parliamentary] elections were originally scheduled for the end of October. Then somewhere in December we would have a coalition and a new government. But citizens and the economy cannot wait so long. Without the necessary changes we would have problems with the International Monetary Fund," he said. As UNIAN reported earlier, the IMF mission came to Kyiv on May 21 and was expected to stay for two weeks. On May 21, Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers Oleksandr Saenko said that the mission had stopped its work. The IMF's representative office in Kyiv denied the report, saying that the work continued on schedule. Later Saenko backtracked, confirming there was no information about the end of the mission's work. On May 23, spokesman for the IMF Gerry Rice said that the Fund was ready to resume cooperation with Ukraine after the formation of a new government. The elections to Ukraine's parliament are scheduled for July 21. Prosecutor General of Ukraine Yuriy Lutsenko has announced he is going to step down after the snap parliamentary elections in Ukraine. "I think we must respect the choice of the Ukrainian people who have elected a new president, but this does not mean that all should resign in one day, as the Constitution and laws of Ukraine stipulate who should resign and who should take a similar decision later," he said on ICTV. Read alsoUkrainian chief prosecutor Lutsenko: No grounds to resign "I have made such a decision for myself, and I think it is my task, together with other law-enforcers, to ensure not only fair presidential but also fair parliamentary elections, and after that I will go into politics not to parties, but to people with whom I will work on my vision of Ukraine's development," Lutsenko said. Lutsenko added that his vision was "that people in the country should be respected for deeds rather than for words, for concrete actions, for their ability to take responsibility," therefore he takes the responsibility to accomplish a three-year mission at the Prosecutor General's Office (PGO), and then he "will return to where they came from the grass-roots." When asked about the date of resignation, Lutsenko replied: "The parliamentary elections will take place in the 20th days of July, respectively, the newly elected parliament will form its system, form a coalition, elect a government, and then decide on a new general prosecutor." As reported by UNIAN, during his inauguration ceremony on May 20, President Volodymyr Zelensky called on the parliament to dismiss the heads of the SBU Security Service, the PGO, and the Defense Minister. The decision can be appealed at the Grand Chamber of the Supreme Court within 15 days. Ukraine's Supreme Court says a lawsuit against President Volodymyr Zelensky's decree to disband the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, does not fall within its jurisdiction. This is said in a Supreme Court ruling dated May 27, 2019, on case No. 9901/275/19. Read alsoUkraine's President Zelensky disbands parliament, schedules snap elections (Document) "The Supreme Court has refused to open proceedings in a lawsuit against President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky for recognizing presidential decree dated May 21, 2019, No. 303/2019 on the early termination of the powers of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine and the appointment of early elections illegal and invalid since the consideration of such a case falls within the jurisdiction of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine," the Supreme Court said in a statement on May 27. In particular, the Supreme Court concluded that under Part 2 of Article 147, Part 1 of Article 150 of the Constitution, the verification of compliance with the Fundamental Law of all, without exception, legislative acts of the Verkhovna Rada and the president is within the Constitutional Court's authority. "The ruling says that the constitutional process of parliament dissolution and the involvement of the president of Ukraine in this process is not a form of exercising its administrative functions and cannot fall under control of a court of administrative jurisdiction," it said. The decision can be appealed at the Grand Chamber of the Supreme Court within 15 days. Zelensky who swore in as president of Ukraine on May 20 announced his decision to disband Ukraine's parliament and call snap parliamentary elections. The absence of a parliamentary coalition since 2016 was cited as a de-jure cause. On May 23, he signed a decree to dissolve the parliament and the parliamentary election campaign officially began on May 24. Three claims were lodged with the Supreme Court for ruling Zelensky's parliament dissolution decree null and void. According to Stefanchuk, the party agrees to form a coalition with political forces ready to unite around ideas. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's envoy to the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, Ruslan Stefanchuk says the Servant of the People Party "would definitely like to take on the sole responsibility," but if this does not work, the party will consider proposals that will correspond to its plans and program. Read alsoZelensky's envoy to parliament says bill on president's impeachment, recall of MPs already written "The priority for us is not in surnames, factions, parties and approaches, because we still do not know who will be in the new parliament," he told a Svoboda Slova [Freedom of Speech] panel show on Ukraine's ICTV channel. According to Stefanchuk, the party agrees to form a coalition with political forces ready to unite around ideas. As UNIAN reported earlier, Ukraine's new President Volodymyr Zelensky on May 21 signed a decree disbanding the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament. On May 23, the decree on the early termination of the powers of the Verkhovna Rada and the appointment of early elections on July 21, 2019 was published in the government's official newspaper Uriadovy Kurier. Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage arrives at the party's HQ, prior to an event to mark the gains his party made in the European Elections, in London, May 27. In results announced for all regions of the U.K. except Northern Ireland, the party had won 29 of the 73 British EU seats up for grabs and almost a third of the votes. AP British euroskeptic Nigel Farage said Monday that his new Brexit Party's victory in the European election should spur Britain to leave the European Union even without a divorce deal _ a call echoed by many senior Conservatives, stung by their party's humiliating defeat. Farage's single-issue party and pro-EU forces combined to trounce Britain's two dominant political parties in the European Parliament election, as angry voters blamed the ruling Conservatives and the opposition Labour Party for the country's Brexit impasse. With complete results announced Monday, the Brexit Party had won 29 of the 73 British EU seats up for grabs and almost a third of the votes. On the pro-EU side, the Liberal Democrats took 20% of the vote and 16 seats _ a dramatic increase from the single seat in won in the last EU election in 2014. The opposition Labour Party came third with 14.1%, followed by the pro-European environmentalist Greens , who captured nearly 12.1%. The Conservatives _ apparently blamed by voters for failing to deliver Brexit in March as planned _ were in fifth with under 10% of the vote. The election leaves Britain's EU exit more uncertain than ever, with both Brexiteers and pro-EU ''remainers'' able to claim strong support. The result raises the likelihood of a chaotic ''no deal'' exit from the EU _ but also the possibility of a new Brexit referendum that could reverse the decision to leave. A triumphant Farage said he doubted the Conservatives, who are seeking a new leader, would be able to take Britain out of the 28-nation bloc on the currently scheduled date of Oct. 31. ''The Conservative Party are bitterly divided and I consider it to be extremely unlikely that they will pick a leader who is able to take us out on the 31st October,'' Farage said. He said his party _ which currently has no members and no policies apart from leaving the EU _ would ''stun everybody'' in the next British general election if the country didn't leave the EU on time. British Prime Minister Theresa May, who is stepping down as Conservative leader next month after failing to deliver Brexit, said the ''disappointing'' result of the European vote ''shows the importance of finding a Brexit deal, and I sincerely hope these results focus minds in Parliament.'' But the election instead is likely to harden the uncompromising stance of the candidates vying to succeed her. On Monday, Home Secretary Sajid Javid became the ninth Conservative lawmaker to enter the race for the top job. ''First and foremost, we must deliver Brexit,'' he said. Boris Johnson, the current favorite to replace May, tweeted: ''The message from last night's results is clear. It is time for us to deliver Brexit.'' Most businesses and economists think leaving the EU with no agreement on departure terms and future relations would cause economic turmoil and plunge Britain into a recession. But many Conservatives think embracing a no-deal Brexit may be the only way to win back voters from Farage's party. Labour paid for a fence-sitting Brexit policy in which it dithered over whether to support a new referendum that could halt Brexit. Some senior Labour figures said after the party's weak performance that it must now firmly back a new referendum on Britain's departure from the bloc. Party leader Jeremy Corbyn has long resisted a new referendum, but Labour economy spokesman John McDonnell suggested that might change. He said the best way of stopping a damaging no-deal Brexit was ''going back to the people in a referendum, and that's what I think our members want.'' (AP) Saakashvili was stripped of Ukrainian citizenship in July 2017. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reinstated ex-president of Georgia and ex-Governor of Ukraine's Odesa region Mikheil Saakashvili's Ukrainian citizenship. Zelensky deleted the respective provision from his predecessor Petro Poroshenko's No. 196 order dated July 26, 2017. Read alsoFormer Georgian president to return to Ukraine, then to home country media The reinstatement is stipulated in Zelensky's No. 329/2019 order on issues of Ukrainian citizenship dated May 28, 2019, which was posted on the president's official website. As UNIAN reported earlier, Poroshenko late in July 2017 signed an order to strip Saakashvili of Ukrainian citizenship. Member of the Interior Ministry's board Anton Gerashchenko said it was related with the fact that Saakashvili had provided wrong information when applying for Ukrainian citizenship, in particular, he did not mention his criminal record in Georgia. In Ukraine, Saakashvili was facing charges under three articles of the Criminal Code: an attempt to commit an offense (Part 1, Article 15); a criminal offense committed by a group of persons, or a group of persons upon prior conspiracy, or an organized group, or a criminal organization (Part 2, Article 28); assistance to members of criminal organizations and concealment of their criminal activities (Part 2, Article 256). Ukrainian Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko claimed Saakashvili organized protests to seize state power in Ukraine and assist former members of a criminal group of former President Viktor Yanukovych and businessman Serhiy Kurchenko in closing their criminal prosecution. In September 2017, Saakashvili illegally crossed the state border from Poland to Ukraine, which was confirmed by rulings by local and appellate courts. On February 12, 2018, Saakashvili was transferred to Poland in keeping with the readmission procedure. He is not allowed to enter Ukraine until 2021 in connection with the committed offences. He worked as Finance Minister in Volodymyr Groysman's government. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signed an order to appoint Oleksandr Danyliuk as Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC). "To appoint Oleksandr Danyliuk Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council," says presidential order No. 327, posted on the president's official website. Read alsoAdvisor to Zelensky names president-elect's priorities for first 100 days in office Danyliuk, 43, was adviser to Zelensky during the latter's presidential campaign. He worked as Finance Minister in Volodymyr Groysman's government. He was dismissed on June 7, 2018, over a dispute with Groysman. Previously, the post of the NSDC Secretary was held by Oleksandr Turchynov, from December 16, 2014, to May 19, 2019. Under Ukrainian legislation, the candidacy of the NSDC Secretary along with those of the foreign and defense ministries, the SBU chief and the chief prosecutor shall be appointed (with the parliament's approval) and dismissed by the president of Ukraine. The parliamentary elections in Ukraine are scheduled to be held on July 21, 2019. U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker says he hopes for the resumption of talks with the Russian Federation on the settlement of the situation in Donbas after the parliamentary elections in Ukraine. "I would like to have contact with Russia in the near future. I don't know what format it would take at the moment. We've just gotten through the presidential election in Ukraine. We've immediately launched into a parliamentary election campaign," he said during a video conference for European journalists on Tuesday, May 28, according to an UNIAN correspondent. "And so far, in contacts we had earlier this year the Russians made clear that they did not see an opportunity for productive discussions during the course of the presidential campaign. We have to see where it stands now during the course of this parliamentary campaign and when the appropriate time would be to meet and follow up," he said. Read alsoU.S. envoy Volker supports Zelensky-Putin direct dialogue According to him, a major subject for the talks is the war in the east of Ukraine. "As far as the topics go, of course, the main one is the war in the Donbas. We want to make sure that we're putting on the table all of the issues about Minsk implementation, starting with the ceasefire, withdrawal of foreign forces, the disarming of illegal armed groups, and creating a situation of security in the Donbas so that additional political steps that are also part of the Minsk [agreements] can be taken. And these include amnesty for people who've committed crimes as part of the conflict, implementing a special status for the region under Ukraine's Constitution, holding local elections, and of course eventually the peaceful reintegration of this territory with the rest of Ukraine," he said. In his words, Russia should take many steps to implement the Minsk accords, but Ukraine also has its responsibilities. "We will have some initial contacts with Russia to see whether now is the right time for getting together to talk about Minsk implementation, where we can go from here," he said. "Prior to the completion of the presidential election [in Ukraine] Russia had indicated that it was not prepared at that moment, we do hope that there will be an opportunity ahead, maybe after the parliamentary elections. We'll have to see, we'll be in touch with Russia about that," he said. "As far as Normandy format goes that is a process led by France and Germany, we fully support it, we track it very closely they have had discussions about the possibility of a Normandy format meeting, possibly as soon as July. I don't think anything yet has been scheduled and that, for course, will require agreement not only by Ukraine but also by Russia," he added. The parliamentary elections in Ukraine are scheduled to be held on July 21, 2019. The U.S. envoy says Ukraine, as any other country in the world, has a right to self-defense. U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker says the United States is open to foreign military sales, including to Ukraine. "As you know, we've provided foreign military financing approved by the Congress. That has produced support for systems such as anti-tank systems and anti-sniper systems. And just as we do with many countries, we'll be consulting with Ukraine about what their legitimate needs are. We will be looking at what capabilities we can help provide. We also are open to foreign military sales, that is to say, Ukraine [is] purchasing military equipment from the United States," he said during a press briefing on May 28. Read alsoVolker hopes talks with Russia on Donbas will resume after parliamentary elections in Ukraine "And this is all part of the normal course of business for a country developing its own defensive capabilities. And in Ukraine's case, it is particularly important because it is under attack every day, and so it has a desperate need to strengthen these defensive capabilities and prevent any further loss of territory, hold the line, and hopefully create the conditions where peace can again be negotiated," he said. According to him, Ukraine, as any other country in the world, has a right to self-defense. "That is a right enshrined in the UN Charter. For some reason, there was a decision here in a previous administration not to help Ukraine with its defensive capabilities, at least lethal defensive capabilities. That is something that has now been lifted, and the United States is prepared to work with Ukraine, just as we do with countries around the world in supporting their legitimate defense needs," he said. When asked to specify the names of the weapons that the U.S. intends to send to Ukraine next year under the U.S. defense aid worth US$300 million to Kyiv in the fiscal year 2020, he answered: "I wish I could, but unfortunately, I do not know the names of the specific systems. I do know that the process here is one where the Congress appropriates the funding, the Pentagon sits down Ukrainian defense leadership, we talk through exactly what the needs are, how they should be addressed and what systems are best in doing so. I don't have any specific systems to talk about today." The Embassy of Ukraine in Egypt is waiting for the arrival of the captain of the vessel. Deputy Director-General for Consular Service and Head of the Consular Support Department at Ukraine's Foreign Ministry Vasyl Kyrylych has said all Ukrainian crewmembers of a Panama-registered oil tanker, Sea Shark, detained in Egypt in December 2018 for the violation of Egypt's borders, left the Egyptian Navy's military base where they were kept, while formal measures for their return home are under way. Read alsoFive Ukrainian sailors of Panama-registered oil tanker detained in Egypt return home "All Ukrainian sailors from the Sea Shark vessel have left the Egyptian Navy's base. Now, preparatory formal arrangements for their return to Ukraine are under way. The consul is waiting for the captain [Vitaliy Nesterenko] at the embassy," he told UNIAN on May 28. As UNIAN reported earlier, a member of the Sea Shark crew informed Ukraine's Embassy in Egypt about the detention of the oil tanker by the Egyptian authorities for the violation of Egypt's borders. The captain of the vessel, Vitaliy Nesterenko, confirmed that the vessel had gone adrift and accidentally entered into the territorial waters of Egypt. At that time, the ship was in the port of Berenice (subordinate to the Ministry of Defense of Egypt). The Egyptian side fined the shipowner company over the said offense and the crew's passports were seized. Having receiving the relevant permission of the Egyptian naval forces, the Sea Shark vessel was on April 25 removed from the anchor in the port of Berenice and departed to Egypt's Ein El Sokhna Port, located 100 km from Cairo, where the replacement of crew members was to take place. Yet, on April 27, when the ship arrived at the port of Ein El Sokhna, the Egyptian military prosecutor's office demanded that the crew unload the crude oil the ship was carrying over an alleged environmental threat that is possible if it leaked into the water area. Ukraine's Foreign Ministry demanded that the Egyptian side explain the detention of a tanker with 17 Ukrainians on board. On May 19, the Egyptian military banned access of Ukraine's consul to 17 Ukrainian sailors kept at the Egyptian Navy's base. On May 20, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry promised to help Ukrainians return home. On May 27, five Ukrainian crewmembers of the Sea Shark vessel finally returned to Ukraine. The Ukrainian sailors arrived from Istanbul. Another five Ukrainian crewmembers of a Panama-registered oil tanker, Sea Shark, detained in Egypt in December 2018 for the violation of Egypt's borders, have returned home. "Today, border guards of the Odesa squad have separately made out documents for five sailors at the Odesa-Avia checkpoint. The sailors, citizens of Ukraine, arrived from Istanbul [Turkey]," the press service of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine said. Read alsoAll Ukrainian sailors of Panama-registered oil tanker detained in Egypt to return home soon MFA As UNIAN reported earlier, a member of the Sea Shark crew informed Ukraine's Embassy in Egypt about the detention of the oil tanker by the Egyptian authorities for the violation of Egypt's borders. The captain of the vessel, Vitaliy Nesterenko, confirmed that the vessel had gone adrift and accidentally entered into the territorial waters of Egypt. At that time, the ship was in the port of Berenice (subordinate to the Ministry of Defense of Egypt). The Egyptian side fined the shipowner company over the said offense and the crew's passports were seized. Having receiving the relevant permission of the Egyptian naval forces, the Sea Shark vessel was on April 25 removed from the anchor in the port of Berenice and departed to Egypt's Ein El Sokhna Port, located 100 km from Cairo, where the replacement of crew members was to take place. Yet, on April 27, when the ship arrived at the port of Ein El Sokhna, the Egyptian military prosecutor's office demanded that the crew unload the crude oil the ship was carrying over an alleged environmental threat that is possible if it leaked into the water area. Ukraine's Foreign Ministry demanded that the Egyptian side explain the detention of a tanker with 17 Ukrainians on board. On May 19, the Egyptian military banned access of Ukraine's consul to 17 Ukrainian sailors kept at the Egyptian Navy's base. On May 20, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry promised to help Ukrainians return home. On May 27, five Ukrainian crewmembers of the Sea Shark vessel finally returned to Ukraine. Ukraine Army reported no casualties over the period under review. Russia's hybrid military forces on May 27 mounted four attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas. Read alsoPresident Zelensky pays first working visit to Donbas (Photos) "Ukraine Army reported no casualties over the past day. Each enemy attack had an adequate response. According to intelligence reports, four occupiers were wounded," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation said in an update on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on May 28, 2019. During the period under review, Russian occupation forces opened fire from 82mm mortars, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms to attack the Ukrainian positions near the villages of Berezove, Mykolaivka Druha, Pivdenne, and Mayorsk. "From midnight on Tuesday, Russia-led forces attacked Ukrainian positions once near the town of Maryinka, using 120mm mortars. There were no casualties among the Ukrainian military [on Tuesday]," the report said. Experts have said Moscow is attempting to expand its global reach in order to counter the impact of Western sanctions, which were levied in response to Russia's annexation of the Crimean peninsula from Ukraine in 2015. Russia will deploy military specialists to the Republic of Congo to provide maintenance for military equipment that Moscow had previously given the African country, the Kremlin said Friday as the country's role in Africa came under the spotlight. Read alsoU.S. General tells of Russian Wagner PMC presence in Africa "These specialists will go there to help maintain military equipment provided to the Republic of the Congo earlier," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Friday, adding that helicopters and armored vehicles would be among the equipment serviced by these specialists. Peskov did not specify exactly how many Russian military personnel would be sent to the African country or whether they are regular service members of the Russian military or contractors, according to Newsweek. Russia has attempted to expand its footprint into Africa by signing military cooperation agreements with around 20 countries, including Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. Experts have said Moscow is attempting to expand its global reach in order to counter the impact of Western sanctions, which were levied in response to Russia's annexation of the Crimean peninsula from Ukraine in 2015. Last year, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov went on an extensive tour of Africa, stopping in Angola, Namibia, Mozambique, and Ethiopia, among other countries. "Moscow's decision is the latest in a series of Russian military deployments to the African continent, as it has already expanded its military cooperation with the Central African Republic, Sudan and Zimbabwe, among others. Russia is undertaking efforts to increase security ties with non-Western states to boost its arms industry, reassert itself on the global stage and expand its leverage against the United States amid its ongoing standoff with the West," reads a report released Thursday by Stratfor Worldview, a geopolitical intelligence site. Moscow may also be eyeing possibilities of cooperating with Congo's resource extraction. The country has iron ore and oil and gas reserves. Operations were conducted in other municipalities too, like southern Mitrovica and Skenderaj. A police operation in mainly Serb-populated northern Kosovo has fanned Pristina's already tense relations with neighboring Serbia, prompting Belgrade to put its troops on full alert. Kosovar police said on May 28 that special units conducted an operation in northern Kosovo and had detained "several [local] police officials and citizens," RFE/RL wrote. Separately, Kosovar President Hashim Thaci told the media in Pristina that during the raids, police also detained a Russian citizen who was "camouflaged as a diplomat, in order to prevent the police operation." He did not elaborate. But the Russian Embassy in Belgrade said it was looking into reports that a Russian citizen, named by the embassy as Mikhail Krasnoshchenko, was detained in Kosovo. Read alsoThousands rally in Belgrade calling President Vucic to resign The Kosovar police statement said the detainees were suspected of being involved in "criminal activities." The statement also cited "armed resistance" in Zubin Potok, the Serbian-majority municipality in northern Kosovo. It said four police officers were wounded during the operation, three of them superficially, while one sustained gunshot wounds. Serbian state RTS TV reported that two ethnic Serbs were also wounded during the operation. Operations were conducted in other municipalities too, like southern Mitrovica and Skenderaj, and the detainees were of different ethnic backgrounds Albanians, Bosnian Muslims, and Serbs, police said. Meanwhile, Serbian state TV said President Aleksandar Vucic ordered a full state of alert for Serbian troops on May 28 after Kosovo's special police "burst into" northern Kosovo and made several arrests. "I ordered the full combat readiness of our army units," Vucic said. "If there is any serious threat to the order and life of people in the north of Kosovo and Metohija, we will protect our people." Belgrade continues to refer to the country as "Kosovo and Metohija," its official name when it was an autonomous Serbian republic. Serbian government official Marko Djuric said Kosovo police "armed to the teeth" raided four Serbian municipalities in the north, claiming that the Kosovo police action was designed to intimidate and expel Serbs from Kosovo and presented "not only a threat to stability but the most direct threat to peace." "They did it with an aim to intimidate and if possible to sow panic...to create an impossible climate for Serbs in Kosovo," Djuric told RTS. KFOR, the NATO-led peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, said in a statement that the operation was only conducted by Kosovo's police and did not involve the military. "KFOR confirms that this is only a police operation and no Kosovo Security Force or any other military force has been deployed to the north of Kosovo," the May 28 statement said. Belgrade lost control over Albanian-majority Kosovo after a NATO air campaign in 1999. Serbia does not recognize Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence. The northern part of Kosovo remains in a state of lawlessness as the majority Serbs, backed by Belgrade, have rejected Pristina's jurisdiction over them. Organized crime thrives in the region, with suspects easily finding refuge from police across the porous border. Business AM modulation (Analog Amplitude Modulation) and Demodulation | Soukacatv.com Digital modulator from Soukacatv.com 28.05.2019 10:42:27 - AM modulation is also used for aircraft radio, an application on which human lives depend. (live-PR.com) - An outline of AM Modulation and demodulation AM radio is one of the most obvious examples of AM modulation. AM stands for analog amplitude modulation. AM modulation has a reputation for poor sound quality. However, this isnt really an appropriate way to express it. Humans can hear sound in frequencies from about 20 Hz to 16 kHz, and the music source - An outline of AM Modulation and demodulationAM radio is one of the most obvious examples of AM modulation. AM stands for analog amplitude modulation. AM modulation has a reputation for poor sound quality. However, this isnt really an appropriate way to express it. Humans can hear sound in frequencies from about 20 Hz to 16 kHz, and the music source is generally within this frequency range. For example, if you play music through a medium that only carries a frequency of about 3 kHz such as a telephone, naturally it will sound dull. While FM radio can transmit music up to about 15 kHz, AM radio can only transmit up to about 7.5 kHz. This is to comply with the radio wave band widths stipulated in the Radio Act, and it doesnt mean that the sound quality of AM modulation itself is poor. However, the amplitude of the AM carrier wave can carry information. But the amplitude component is readily affected by noise, and since the modulation and demodulation is analog, the variation is also converted into sound, making it unpleasant to listen to. HDMI Encoder Modulator, 16in1 Digital Headend, HD RF Modulator at Soukacatv.com However, AM modulation is also used for aircraft radio, an application on which human lives depend. This is because humans can understand the transmissions even if theyre affected by noise to some extent. The simplicity of AM modulation is its selling point. Technology related to AM modulation is also used in the latest radios, and it includes some very important areas relating to research into radio modulation and demodulation. With amplitude modulation, the amplitude of carrier wave C is shifted proportionally to the information data in the modulating signal m(t). Amplitude modulation has long been used for radio and television broadcasting. There are many types of amplitude modulation including AM (DSB-WC), DSB-SC, SSB-SC, VSB and so on. They each have their benefits and drawbacks, and are used as appropriate for the frequency band, transmitted power, required transmission quality and so on. AM radio uses the DSB (DSB-WC) modulation method where the direct current (positive component) is multiplied by the carrier wave and the modulated wave has a carrier wave component. The receiving wave includes a carrier wave component, so synchronization in the demodulation circuit is simplified. In double-sideband suppressed-carrier transmission (DSB-SC), the amplitude of the carrier wave is changed in accordance with the information. In DSB-SC modulation, the wave carrier is not transmitted in the modulated wave. DSB-SC is closely related to frequency conversion and single sideband suppressed carrier (SSB-SC) modulation, and is used in many applications. There is some confusion surrounding the various systems of amplitude modulation. For example, some people refer to AM as DSW, while others refer to DSB-SC as DSB. AM modulation is used as a generic term for amplitude modulation, but it includes a number of types, so its necessary to pay careful attention when discussing them. The types can be summarized as follows. Double sideband with carrier: DSB-WC(AM), referred to simply as DSW Single sideband with carrier: SSB-WC Double sideband suppressed carrier: DSB-SC Single sideband suppressed carrier: SSB-SC WC (With Carrier) means that the modulated wave includes a carrier wave component, and SC (Suppressed Carrier) means that there is no carrier wave component. The theory of AM modulation and demodulation Amplitude modulation: AM radio Amplitude modulation is often associated with the modulation method of AM radio. When the carrier wave is C(t) and the modulating signal is m(t), the modulated wave Sam is as follows. Kam: Constant With AM radio modulation, the amplitude of carrier wave Ac is shifted proportionally to the modulating signal m(t). The modulated wave Sam when the modulating signal m(t) is a single sine wave is as follows. If the initial phase C of the carrier wave is 0, and Kam*Am is modulation factor m, the result is as follows. The first equation shows the carrier wave component while the second equation shows that a spectrum where only the modulation signal frequency FM is separate on either side of the carrier frequency. Amplitude modulation shifts the spectrum of the modulating signal directly to the carrier wave. The upper part of the carrier frequency is the upper sideband (USB) while the lower part is the lower sideband (LSB). The bandwidth required for this modulation method includes the double sideband, so it is twice that of the modulating signal bandwidth. With this modulation, a carrier wave is transmitted and the receiver is built so as to be able to use it with demodulation, but the carrier wave has nothing to do with information transmission so it is not efficient from an electrical point of view. However, the receiver performs envelope detection and so the modulation factor must be 1 or higher, therefore the carrier wave component is unavoidable. A modulation factor of 1 or more results in over-modulation, so that synchronous detection is necessary. Actual AM modulation and demodulation Modulation Using a modulator, the amplitude of the carrier wave is shifted proportionally to the amplitude of the modulating signal. A transistor or diode can be used as a modulator. For example, if the carrier wave and modulating signal are input with the transistor operating at grade C, a signal combining the DSB wave and harmonics is output. If the DSB wave is extracted with a resonance circuit, it results in an amplitude modulated wave including the carrier wave. In addition, if the carrier wave and modulating signal are input to a DBM (double-balanced modulator) and the nonlinearity of the DBM is used for modulation, a DSB-SC (double sideband suppressed carrier) amplitude modulation wave without a carrier wave can be obtained. AM radio uses a DSB wave with a carrier wave and asynchronous detection at the receiver. If the modulation index m is less than 1, the envelope of the modulated wave indicates the form of the modulating signal (information). If it is bigger than 1, the envelope no longer indicates the form of the modulating signal due to over-modulation. Therefore, it is important to note that the modulated wave does not include a modulation signal frequency component, as you can see by looking at the spectrum. This is strongly relevant to the demodulation method of the receiver. Demodulation Demodulation methods for AM modulating signals include synchronous detection and asynchronous detection, and the applet shown below allows you to switch between the two to see the difference. The receivers for AM radio broadcasts use envelope detection, a type of asynchronous detection, to simplify their structure and reduce their cost. Envelope detection is a detection method that can only perform demodulation when the envelope of the modulated signal indicates a modulating signal. The applet below can be set to over modulation with a modulation factor higher than 1, but in this case, since the envelope of the modulated signal does not indicate a modulating signal, envelope detection is not possible and its necessary to use synchronous detection. The applet below allows you to switch between synchronous detection and asynchronous detection. You can confirm that demodulation can be carried out properly even with over modulation if you use synchronous detection. However, please confirm this using a single sine wave. AM modulation and demodulation applet An AM modulation and demodulation applet An AM modulation and demodulation applet Click the Explain button at the bottom right of the applet for how to use it. The detection method used by the applet is as follows. Synchronous detection: The carrier wave is multiplied with exactly the same transmission carrier wave, frequency and phase as the modulated wave. Asynchronous detection: The modulated wave is rectified and signals with a level higher than 0 are extracted. *Note: The modulation index of this applet is applied with a frequency 4 single sine wave. Established in 2000, the Soukacatv.com main products are modulators both in analog and digital ones, amplifier and combiner. We are the very first one in manufacturing the headend system in China. Our 16 in 1 and 24 in 1 now are the most popular products all over the world. For more, please access to CONTACT US Dingshengwei Electronics Co., Ltd Company Address: Buliding A,the first industry park of Guanlong,Xili Town,Nanshan,Shenzhen,Guangdong,China Tel : +86 0755 26909863 Fax : +86 0755 26984949 Phone: +86 13410066011 Email:ken@soukacatv.com Skype: soukaken Website: Source: cdt21 is generally within this frequency range. For example, if you play music through a medium that only carries a frequency of about 3 kHz such as a telephone, naturally it will sound dull. While FM radio can transmit music up to about 15 kHz, AM radio can only transmit up to about 7.5 kHz. This is to comply with the radio wave band widths stipulated in the Radio Act, and it doesnt mean that the sound quality of AM modulation itself is poor. However, the amplitude of the AM carrier wave can carry information. But the amplitude component is readily affected by noise, and since the modulation and demodulation is analog, the variation is also converted into sound, making it unpleasant to listen to.HDMI Encoder Modulator, 16in1 Digital Headend, HD RF Modulator at Soukacatv.comHowever, AM modulation is also used for aircraft radio, an application on which human lives depend. This is because humans can understand the transmissions even if theyre affected by noise to some extent. The simplicity of AM modulation is its selling point. Technology related to AM modulation is also used in the latest radios, and it includes some very important areas relating to research into radio modulation and demodulation. With amplitude modulation, the amplitude of carrier wave C is shifted proportionally to the information data in the modulating signal m(t). Amplitude modulation has long been used for radio and television broadcasting.There are many types of amplitude modulation including AM (DSB-WC), DSB-SC, SSB-SC, VSB and so on. They each have their benefits and drawbacks, and are used as appropriate for the frequency band, transmitted power, required transmission quality and so on. AM radio uses the DSB (DSB-WC) modulation method where the direct current (positive component) is multiplied by the carrier wave and the modulated wave has a carrier wave component. The receiving wave includes a carrier wave component, so synchronization in the demodulation circuit is simplified. In double-sideband suppressed-carrier transmission (DSB-SC), the amplitude of the carrier wave is changed in accordance with the information. In DSB-SC modulation, the wave carrier is not transmitted in the modulated wave. DSB-SC is closely related to frequency conversion and single sideband suppressed carrier (SSB-SC) modulation, and is used in many applications. There is some confusion surrounding the various systems of amplitude modulation. For example, some people refer to AM as DSW, while others refer to DSB-SC as DSB. AM modulation is used as a generic term for amplitude modulation, but it includes a number of types, so its necessary to pay careful attention when discussing them. The types can be summarized as follows. Double sideband with carrier: DSB-WC(AM), referred to simply as DSWSingle sideband with carrier: SSB-WCDouble sideband suppressed carrier: DSB-SCSingle sideband suppressed carrier: SSB-SCWC (With Carrier) means that the modulated wave includes a carrier wave component, and SC (Suppressed Carrier) means that there is no carrier wave component.The theory of AM modulation and demodulationAmplitude modulation: AM radioAmplitude modulation is often associated with the modulation method of AM radio. When the carrier wave is C(t) and the modulating signal is m(t), the modulated wave Sam is as follows.Kam: ConstantWith AM radio modulation, the amplitude of carrier wave Ac is shifted proportionally to the modulating signal m(t).The modulated wave Sam when the modulating signal m(t) is a single sine wave is as follows.If the initial phase C of the carrier wave is 0, and Kam*Am is modulation factor m, the result is as follows.The first equation shows the carrier wave component while the second equation shows that a spectrum where only the modulation signal frequency FM is separate on either side of the carrier frequency. Amplitude modulation shifts the spectrum of the modulating signal directly to the carrier wave. The upper part of the carrier frequency is the upper sideband (USB) while the lower part is the lower sideband (LSB). The bandwidth required for this modulation method includes the double sideband, so it is twice that of the modulating signal bandwidth. With this modulation, a carrier wave is transmitted and the receiver is built so as to be able to use it with demodulation, but the carrier wave has nothing to do with information transmission so it is not efficient from an electrical point of view. However, the receiver performs envelope detection and so the modulation factor must be 1 or higher, therefore the carrier wave component is unavoidable. A modulation factor of 1 or more results in over-modulation, so that synchronous detection is necessary.Actual AM modulation and demodulationModulationUsing a modulator, the amplitude of the carrier wave is shifted proportionally to the amplitude of the modulating signal. A transistor or diode can be used as a modulator. For example, if the carrier wave and modulating signal are input with the transistor operating at grade C, a signal combining the DSB wave and harmonics is output. If the DSB wave is extracted with a resonance circuit, it results in an amplitude modulated wave including the carrier wave. In addition, if the carrier wave and modulating signal are input to a DBM (double-balanced modulator) and the nonlinearity of the DBM is used for modulation, a DSB-SC (double sideband suppressed carrier) amplitude modulation wave without a carrier wave can be obtained. AM radio uses a DSB wave with a carrier wave and asynchronous detection at the receiver. If the modulation index m is less than 1, the envelope of the modulated wave indicates the form of the modulating signal (information). If it is bigger than 1, the envelope no longer indicates the form of the modulating signal due to over-modulation. Therefore, it is important to note that the modulated wave does not include a modulation signal frequency component, as you can see by looking at the spectrum. This is strongly relevant to the demodulation method of the receiver.DemodulationDemodulation methods for AM modulating signals include synchronous detection and asynchronous detection, and the applet shown below allows you to switch between the two to see the difference. The receivers for AM radio broadcasts use envelope detection, a type of asynchronous detection, to simplify their structure and reduce their cost. Envelope detection is a detection method that can only perform demodulation when the envelope of the modulated signal indicates a modulating signal. The applet below can be set to over modulation with a modulation factor higher than 1, but in this case, since the envelope of the modulated signal does not indicate a modulating signal, envelope detection is not possible and its necessary to use synchronous detection. The applet below allows you to switch between synchronous detection and asynchronous detection. You can confirm that demodulation can be carried out properly even with over modulation if you use synchronous detection. However, please confirm this using a single sine wave. AM modulation and demodulation appletAn AM modulation and demodulation appletAn AM modulation and demodulation applet Click the Explain button at the bottom right of the applet for how to use it.The detection method used by the applet is as follows.Synchronous detection: The carrier wave is multiplied with exactly the same transmission carrier wave, frequency and phase as the modulated wave.Asynchronous detection: The modulated wave is rectified and signals with a level higher than 0 are extracted.*Note: The modulation index of this applet is applied with a frequency 4 single sine wave.Established in 2000, the Soukacatv.com main products are modulators both in analog and digital ones, amplifier and combiner. We are the very first one in manufacturing the headend system in China. Our 16 in 1 and 24 in 1 now are the most popular products all over the world.For more, please access to www.soukacatv.com CONTACT USDingshengwei Electronics Co., LtdCompany Address: Buliding A,the first industry park of Guanlong,Xili Town,Nanshan,Shenzhen,Guangdong,ChinaTel : +86 0755 26909863Fax : +86 0755 26984949Phone: +86 13410066011Skype: soukakenWebsite: www.soukacatv.com Source: cdt21 Press Information: Dingshengwei Electronics Co., Ltd Contact Person: Phone: 13410066011 eMail: eMail Web: http://https://www.soukacatv.com 28.05.2019 10:42:27 - Disclaimer: If you have any questions regarding information in this article please contact the author. Please do not contact Live-PR.com. We are not able to assist you. Live-PR.com disclaims content contained in this article. Live-PR.com is not authorized to give any information about content and not responsible for content posted by third party. X Interstate cooperation in gas sphere and supported the coordination of joint plans for future, has accomplished its work on May 22, 2019, in Avaza National tourist zone Ashgabat (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2019) X Interstate cooperation in gas sphere and supported the coordination of joint plans for future, has accomplished its work on May 22, 2019, in Avaza National tourist zone. Atmosphere and course of discussions at the Congress was provided by the fact that the role of natural gas as the most ecologically acceptable and economically beneficial energy resource, which supports stable development of the countries, is growing rapidly in the world energy industry. Therefore, the intent of leading companies of the planet to establish close cooperation with our country, which has rich reserves of gas in the world, is quite legitimate. Demand on energy is the key indicator for any energy forecast. In this case, the opinion of experts is clear Asia will be in the focus in international gas trade for next three decades, which will lead to the necessity of formation of gas transport and gas processing infrastructure. Thus, geographic factor strengthens the positions of Turkmenistan in the world energy markets. Special interest raised by the presentation of the projects of industrial development of largest Galkynysh Field and construction of transnational gas pipeline Turkmenistan Afghanistan Pakistan India among the participants of the Congress became another evidence to this. At the same time, opportunities of supply of Turkmen gas to Europe and Russian, plans for increment of throughput capacity of Central Asia China gas line have been actively discussed at the sessions and fields of the Forum. Diversification of oil and gas industry and enhancement of its innovative component are important aspects of energy strategy steadily implemented by President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Rating of the companies successfully working in this direction are headed now by representatives of business circles of the Republic of Korean and Japan, together with which number of big projects of deep processing of natural gas has been implemented. Perspective directions of cooperation in oil and gas industry of Turkmenistan were discussed on the second day of the Congress. Reports of top managers and specialists of structural divisions of Turkmen fuel and energy complex Turkmenbashy Refinery Complex and the State Concern Turkmengaz, hve been listened with keen interest. In particular, it is planned to build new technological lines, which will refine the oil up to 90 percent, at Turkmenbashy Refinery Complex. It includes the complex of units for hydro treatment of diesel fractions and gasolines, catalyst cracking of heavy residuals of oil refining as well as the installations for production of high quality base technical oils. Representatives of PETRONAS (Malaysia) and Chinese National Petroleum Corporation presented the review of their activity in Turkmenistan. International petroleum company PETRONAS works for more than 20 years in Turkmenistan on the base of the Production Sharing Agreement on Block 1 in Caspian Sea. For this period, PETRONAS has invested more than 10.7 billion US Dollars to the exploration and development of contractual territory, which is located 80 km to the southwest from Turkmenbashy. At present time, Amudarya Regional Gas Company, which is the part of CNPC, continues work on improvement of material base of Turkmenistan China pipeline. The first phase of the project of development of the field, which located in eastern part of Bagtiyarlyk contractual territory, has been successfully implemented. It is planned to start industrial production of gas in the eastern part of B Block in the end of 2019. It is expected that completion of the first phase of the project will provide the production of 1.7 billion cubic meters of gas per year. Total volume of product supplied to Turkmenistan China pipeline from the fields of Bagtiyarlyk contractual territory is more than 82 billion cubic meters today. Direction of International Oil and Gas University spoke in details about training of personnel for oil and gas industry of our country and international cooperation in this field. Numerous business meetings between foreign businessmen and heads of oil and gas departments and concerns of Turkmenistan, during which specific proposals for establishment of beneficial partnership in different spheres of national gas industry, have been held under X International Gas Congress. DUSHANBE (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 28th May, 2019) Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu arrived in Dushanbe, where he will hold talks with the leadership of Tajikistan on the modernization of the republic's armed forces and the functioning of Russian 201st Military Base, the minister's spokeswoman Rossiyana Markovskaya told reporters on Tuesday. "These issues are planned to be discussed today with the republic's Defense Minister Mirzo Sherali," Markovskaya said. It is planned that Shoigu will be received by Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon, the spokeswoman added. In the course of the negotiations, the problems of modernizing the army of Tajikistan will be touched upon, as well as issues related to the functioning of the Russian military base stationed in the republic, she said. Sputnik Lithuania senior editor Marat Kasem told Sputnik by phone on Tuesday that he had been detained in Vilnius upon arrival at the airport on a business trip MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 28th May, 2019) Sputnik Lithuania senior editor Marat Kasem told Sputnik by phone on Tuesday that he had been detained in Vilnius upon arrival at the airport on a business trip. "Detained with the wording 'threat to national security', banned from entering the country for five years," he said. Sharareh Sherri Kermanshachi, assistant professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at The University of Texas at Arlington, has received grants from the Texas Department of Transportation and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development aimed at identifying and formulating best practices for construction of transportation projects. Sherri Kermanshachi, UTA assistant professor of civil engineering, has received grants from the Texas and Louisiana departments of transprtation to develop best practices for construction of transportation projects. Kermanshachi was awarded $223,652 from the Texas Department of Transportation to determine and prioritize the risks encountered by construction, maintenance and specialty inspectors. She and her team will interview TxDOT chief inspectors, project managers, area engineers and assistants to improve the inspectors performance and increase the construction and maintenance efficiency of Texas infrastructure projects. Kermanshachi will then develop best practices to optimize performance of field inspectors. In the end, she plans to establish a knowledge-sharing framework and network to ensure that lessons learned are documented and shareable to others in the field. The ultimate goal is to increase safety of TxDOT inspectors and improve knowledge sharing among senior and junior workforce within the construction and maintenance environments, she said. Kermanshachi also received a $39,183 grant from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to analyze project delivery time, execution cost and change orders using both in-house design and construction, and engineering and inspection consultants. This grant aims to investigate various aspects of transportation project delivery including risks, costs, timelines and reworks done in-house, versus using an outsourcing entity, Kermanshachi said. This project will determine the optimal project distributions among public and private transportation entities and guide resource allocations for delivery of outsourced projects in the transportation sector. Ali Abolmaali, chair of the Department of Civil Engineering, said Kermanshachis projects could have a far-reaching effect on how public entities intersect with construction engineering and inspection services in the transportation industry. Her goals on these projects extend beyond looking at a single transportation project or single state transportation agency, Abolmaali said. Her research always looks at enhancing project and organizational efficiencies with a very broad perspective. These two projects are great illustrations of her efforts in optimizing construction and maintenance performances of highway and bridge projects. Kermanshachi recently won the 2018 Design-Build Institute of America Distinguished Leadership Award in the faculty category. She is the only recipient this year. In addition to serving as the director of UTAs Resilient Infrastructure and Sustainable Environment, or RISE, Lab and supervising multiple doctoral and masters students, Kermanshachi is the founder of UTAs Design-Build Institute of America student chapter and currently serves as its faculty adviser. She has conducted several national- and state-level research projects and has published more than 80 books, journal articles, conference papers and research reports. In addition, she has served as a panel member on multiple research projects funded by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine and the U.S. Department of Transportation. Kermanshachi also has received several prestigious national and regional awards including the American Society of Civil Engineers, or ASCE, Professional Service Award; ASCE Excellence in Civil Engineering Education Fellowship; the Utility Engineering & Surveying Institute Fellowship; ASCE Outstanding Reviewer; Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award; Open Educational Resources Research Fellowship and the Graduate Climate Award. Kermanshachi was the only academic recipient of the 2017 Texas and Louisiana Engineering News Record Top 20 Under 40 Award and she was also invited to serve as the judge for the 2017 and 2018 projects. Telecommunications ECT TELEVOTING TECHNOLOGY PRESENT AT EUROVISION 2019 28.05.2019 18:45:09 - Once again, the reliable and stable effECTive Televoting technology delivers on its promise of uncompromised performance, regardless of the number of simultaneous calls and messages received during the worlds largest televoting event. (live-PR.com) - Munich, May 28th, 2019 ECT (European Computer Telecoms AG), Europes leading communications software company for the realization of value-added services in nextgeneration networks, adds another year as an important contributor to an impeccable streak of televoting results from the Eurovision Song Contest 2019. By providing our effECTive Televoting system to major carriers in Germany, Sweden and other countries, ECT has - Munich, May 28th, 2019 ECT (European Computer Telecoms AG), Europes leading communications software company for the realization of value-added services in nextgeneration networks, adds another year as an important contributor to an impeccable streak of televoting results from the Eurovision Song Contest 2019.By providing our effECTive Televoting system to major carriers in Germany, Sweden and other countries, ECT has supported the annual song contest for many years running. Our solution allows callers to vote for their favorite performers, and for event organizers and networks to track the tally in real-time. It supports thousands of call attempts and messages per second (CAPS) and its highly redundant and reliable. As this years event demonstrated, humans are error-prone if allowed to take part in the process, while quality technology can always be relied on, as stated by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). The EBU can confirm, following standard review practices, we have discovered that due to a human error an incorrect aggregated result was used. This had no impact on the calculation of points derived from televoting across the 41 participating countries and the overall winner and Top 4 songs of the [Eurovision Song Contest 2019] remain unchanged, they stated in a press release dated Wednesday, May 22. Its our tried and true technology that imbues our platform with the reliability and stability our customers require for mass calling events like the Eurovision Song Contest, says Dr. Marshall E. Kavesh, CEO of ECT. Our effECTive Televoting platform is a robust and powerful solution like no other. We are always looking forward to providing our partners with solutions they can trust implicitly, no matter the scale. If you are interested in knowing more about our televoting solutions, or our wide array of products, contact us at About ECT (European Computer Telecoms AG): ECT is Europes leading communications software company. With our virtualized INtellECT Service Delivery Platform, innovative service applications and our Joint Agile Product Development Program, major communications service providers worldwide realize their products with minimal costs and the shortest possible time-to-market. We also often migrate existing services from multiple legacy platforms, innovating and consolidating them in one multiservice solution. As a one-shop vendor, we cover not only core services, like carrier routing, NP and FMU, but also sophisticated cloud services, e.g. for call centers and unified communications as a service (CCaS and UCaaS as well as workstream collaboration. Our Innovation Department keeps our software development and thus the products of our customers on the cutting edge of communications technology. We empower BT, Deutsche Telekom, DNA, Hi3G, izzi, KCOM, Liberty Global, Proximus, TalkTalk, Teliasonera, Virgin Media, Videocon, VodafoneZiggo, among many others. In addition to our own direct sales and service primarily in Europe, we also partner with Nokia Networks which offers our products and services worldwide. Together with our customers and partner Nokia, we at ECT enjoy meeting challenges and creating opportunities. Founded in 1998, ECT is an unlisted German public company with its headquarters in Munich, Germany and wholly owned sales and service subsidiaries in England, The Netherlands and the USA. www.ect-telecoms.com For more information on this press release, please contact: supported the annual song contest for many years running. Our solution allows callers to vote for their favorite performers, and for event organizers and networks to track the tally in real-time. It supports thousands of call attempts and messages per second (CAPS) and its highly redundant and reliable.As this years event demonstrated, humans are error-prone if allowed to take part in the process, while quality technology can always be relied on, as stated by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). The EBU can confirm, following standard review practices, we have discovered that due to a human error an incorrect aggregated result was used. This had no impact on the calculation of points derived from televoting across the 41 participating countries and the overall winner and Top 4 songs of the [Eurovision Song Contest 2019] remain unchanged, they stated in a press release dated Wednesday, May 22.Its our tried and true technology that imbues our platform with the reliability and stability our customers require for mass calling events like the Eurovision Song Contest, says Dr. Marshall E. Kavesh, CEO of ECT. Our effECTive Televoting platform is a robust and powerful solution like no other. We are always looking forward to providing our partners with solutions they can trust implicitly, no matter the scale.If you are interested in knowing more about our televoting solutions, or our wide array of products, contact us at communications@ect-telecoms.de or visit our website here: www.ect-telecoms.com/ About ECT (European Computer Telecoms AG):ECT is Europes leading communications software company. With our virtualized INtellECT Service Delivery Platform, innovative service applications and our Joint Agile Product Development Program, major communications service providers worldwide realize their products with minimal costs and the shortest possible time-to-market. We also often migrate existing services from multiple legacy platforms, innovating and consolidating them in one multiservice solution. As a one-shop vendor, we cover not only core services, like carrier routing, NP and FMU, but also sophisticated cloud services, e.g. for call centers and unified communications as a service (CCaS and UCaaS as well as workstream collaboration. Our Innovation Department keeps our software development and thus the products of our customers on the cutting edge of communications technology. We empower BT, Deutsche Telekom, DNA, Hi3G, izzi, KCOM, Liberty Global, Proximus, TalkTalk, Teliasonera, Virgin Media, Videocon, VodafoneZiggo, among many others. In addition to our own direct sales and service primarily in Europe, we also partner with Nokia Networks which offers our products and services worldwide. Together with our customers and partner Nokia, we at ECT enjoy meeting challenges and creating opportunities.Founded in 1998, ECT is an unlisted German public company with its headquarters in Munich, Germany and wholly owned sales and service subsidiaries in England, The Netherlands and the USA.For more information on this press release, please contact: communications@ect-telecoms.de Press Information: European Computer Telecoms AG Westendstrasse 160 80339 Munich Germany Contact Person: Adam McIlroy Marketing Assistant Phone: 01722302847 eMail: eMail Web: http://https://www.ect-telecoms.com/ 28.05.2019 18:45:09 - Disclaimer: If you have any questions regarding information in this article please contact the author. Please do not contact Live-PR.com. We are not able to assist you. Live-PR.com disclaims content contained in this article. Live-PR.com is not authorized to give any information about content and not responsible for content posted by third party. (File photo) Catholics attend Mass in Kaya, Burkina Faso, near where Sunday's attack took place (SESAME PICTURES) A Bishop in Burkina Faso says Christians reject a growing spiral of violence, following an attack by heavily-armed gunmen on Catholics during Mass, which killed 4 people and injured 2 others. By Devin Watkins The latest in a string of terrorist attacks on Christians took place on Sunday morning in northern Burkina Faso. According to local media, armed men raided the Catholic Church in the town of Toulfe and opened fire during Mass, killing 4 of the faithful and injuring 2 others. Bishop Justin Kientega, of Ouahigouya, described it as a terrorist attack. A local resident said the attack caused panic in the village, causing residents to seek cover in their homes or in the bush. Spiral of violence Last week, attackers killed 4 Catholics taking part in a religious procession in Zimtenga. Earlier in May, gunmen murdered a priest and 5 parishioners in Dablo. An attack on a Protestant church in Silgadji in late April killed 6 people. No one has claimed responsibility for the violence, but suspicion has fallen on Islamic militants. The government has laid the blame on unnamed terrorist groups operating throughout the Sahel region. Mali-based Islamic extremists frequently carry out attacks in neighboring Burkina Faso and Niger. The upswing in anti-Christian violence is threatening to overturn traditionally peaceful relations between Muslims and Christians in Burkina Faso. Christians reject inter-religious conflict Bishop Theophile Nare, of the neighboring Kaya Diocese, told Vatican News that Christians do not want to be locked in a spiral of violence, despite growing insecurity in the region. I see this as part of jihadists strategy, which is to inflame tensions between [the Christian and Muslim] communities through their actions, he said. I think the driving vision is to spark war that is inter-ethnic, inter-religious, and inter-communal. But Christians, said Bishop Nare, want to reject the trap of violence that sets Christianity and Islam against one another. This is the work of a radicalized group of Muslims, he said. According to the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, attacks in the Sahel region have increased from 3 in 2015 to 137 in 2018. In a wide-ranging interview with Mexican media network Televisa, Pope Francis responds to a series of questions concerning his pontificate and the state of the world. By Vatican News Mexican journalist and writer, Valentina Alazraki, has been the Vatican correspondent for Televisa since 1974. In an exclusive interview, published on Tuesday, she asks Pope Francis questions ranging from abortion to migration. Building bridges not walls One of the first questions regards the border wall with Mexico. Pope Francis responds by repeating what he has always said, namely that whoever builds walls ends up a prisoner of the walls he builds... Instead, those who build bridges make friends, shake hands, even if they stay on the other side... But there is dialogue, he says. Young people Turning to the subject of young people, the Pope warns of how youth risk losing their roots. He confirms his advice for young people to talk to old people, and the old to talk to the young, because... a tree cannot grow if we cut off its roots. The Pope encourages youth to dialogue with the roots, receive culture from the roots. Then you grow, you bloom and you bear fruit. Violence against women The Pope also addresses the issue of violence against women. Without attempting to give what he calls a sociological explanation, the Pope does say that women are still in second place and, often, being in second place can mean to be the object of slavery. Here he gives the example of prostituted women and speaks of his own visit recently to a rescue shelter in Rome. The Pope goes on to praise the role of women, saying the world without women doesn't work. Relationship with the media In the interview, Pope Francis responds to a question regarding his relationship with the media: I feel comfortable, he says, I tell you the truth, don't I? The Pope admits that, sometimes, the questions may be more difficult to answer, but he thanks journalists for their patience. Some questions have made me think, he continues, giving the example of the trip to Chile when journalists asked him about alleged cases of sexual abuse in the country. It was largely some of the questions asked with much respect on the return trip, he said, that helped him realise he had not been adequately informed on the subject. The Pope says that when he returned to Rome, he thought, prayed, asked for advice and decided to send an Apostolic Visitor, who uncovered what I did not know. And that was a help, said the Pope. The McCarrick case The interview also touches on communicating information and the need to clarify matters to both the press and people in the pew. Here Pope Francis confirms how we have to explain, especially when it is a question of presumption of innocence. The McCarrick case was different, says the Pope, because it was obvious. Which is why he was able to cut to the chase before the trial and remove McCarrick from both the cardinalate and the clerical state. The Vigano case The interview continues with a question about the Popes silence over unanswered accusations by former Nuncio, Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano. Those who made Roman law say that silence is a way of speaking, he begins. He also says that, in the case of Vigano, he made a choice to trust the honesty of the journalists: I said to them: "Look, you have everything, study for yourselves and draw the conclusions And the result was good, it was better than if I started to explain, to defend myself. Pope Francis confirms he knew nothing about McCarrick: I said that several times, that I didn't know, no idea otherwise I wouldn't have kept quiet. He again explains his silence, saying firstly the evidence was there for you to judge, and secondly because of the example of Jesus: in moments of viciousness you can't speak, because it's worse. Everything is going to go against you. The Lord taught us that way and I follow it. Migrants and refugees The Pope also answers questions about migrants and refugees, something he calls a top priority in todays current world scenario. The phenomenon of migration is such that I have taken in my hands the Migrants Section of the Vatican Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, he says, because every day we receive news of more deaths in the Mediterranean. Pope Francis comments on the problems that arise from some political leaders enforcing policies that close ports of entry, obliging boatloads of migrants and refugees to return to dangerous waters. He reiterates his belief that not only must we have the heart to welcome, but that we must follow up with the unique process of accompaniment, promotion and integration. Pope Francis acknowledges that not all countries are able to follow up on that process, but he invites leaders to take into consideration how far they are able to do so, and that requires both dialogue and agreement, he says. The Pope also mentions the reality of humanitarian corridors as a positive response to the global emergency. He gives the example of Sweden, because during the dictatorships in the 1970s in Argentina and in Latin America, the so-called Operation Condor worked very well. Pope Francis explains that thanks to that project, Sweden received many Latin American refugees. They were welcomed, given language training, temporary housing and help in seeking employment. Sweden was able to do this, he says, although today it is harder because of the numbers. However, he says, the system has worked, pointing to some of the children of those migrants who today are government ministers. Pope Francis goes on to speak about how when countries make political agreements and set boundaries, migrants - who are the weakest and most vulnerable are the ones who suffer and often end up being trafficked, enslaved, tortured He also speaks of the need for security for those who are repatriated: In order to repatriate we need dialogue with the country of origin; not simply build a wall or close the doors of the house. Why does the Pope care so much about migrants today and talk so much about migrants? Because it is a burning problem, he says, underscoring how he also continues to talk about life, protecting life, and against abortion about which he reminds the interviewer, he has said some very hard, very hard things. Abortion On the subject of abortion, the Pope says, he always asks two very clear questions: Is it fair to eliminate a human life in order to solve a problem?. The answer to which is: no. Second question: is it fair to pay a sniper to solve a problem? No. Abortion is not a religious problem in the sense that just because I am Catholic I must not seek an abortion. It is a human problem, says Pope Francis. It is a problem of eliminating a human life. Period. Relationships with governments In the interview, the Pope refers to how, during his travels, he sometimes finds himself in situations in which political leaders may be champions of policies with which he disagrees. Pope Francis says he always strives for dialogue and for the best possible outcome. In his speeches, he says, he touches generically on what may be the problems of a country, but in private, he takes another step, always making the effort to give encouragement in achieving good. I find something good in everyone, he says, be it good will, also in non-believers, they always do something good, he says, reminding the journalist that it is never good or profitable to speak badly of others. For the first time, the Pope reveals that "Dont speak badly of others is the title of a pamphlet he has had distributed in the Roman Curia in the Vatican. Gossip is a universal defect and it applies to everyone, he says, to rulers, non-rulers, children, young people, men, women, everyone. They say that women are more gossipy: rubbish! Men are also gossips, says the Pope. Another question in the interview focusses on possible controversies deriving from gestures and words spoken privately to individuals such when as the Pope embraced a transsexual person and his partner whom he received at the Casa Santa Marta, or his words to a divorced Argentinean woman over the telephone in which he reportedly said she could receive Communion. 'Irregular' situations Sometimes people, because of the enthusiasm of being received (in audience), say more things than the Pope said, let's take that into account, explains Pope Francis. Still, he adds, we are all children of God, and no one must be discarded. I can't tell a person that his or her behavior is in line with what the Church wants, () but I do have to tell them the truth: 'You are a child of God and God wants you that way, settle it with God', he says. God loves all of his children, continues Pope Francis. Specifically regarding the lady from Argentina, the Pope says he does not remember exactly what he said to her: I must have told her: 'look in Amoris laetitia, it tells you what you have to do. Homosexuality Underscoring his belief that we are all Gods children, the Pope reiterates his stance regarding the fact that families must love and include all of their children, including those who are homosexual. He vehemently denies ever having said homosexuals are in need of a psychiatrist. But, he adds, that doesnt mean I approve homosexual acts, far from it. Finally, Pope Francis clarifies his famous quote: Who am I to judge?. He made the comment during an inflight presser while returning from Rio de Janeiro soon after becoming Pope. The comment seemingly raised a lot of expectation within the global homosexual community that allegedly hoped he was going to go further. In the interview with Televisa, Pope Francis notes that Catholic doctrine has not changed. Rather, he warns against the temptation to take words out of context, and as far as doctrine is concerned, he defines himself as a conservative. Pope Francis tells finance ministers they have the responsibility of working to achieve the goals that your governments have adopted to combat climate change. By Vatican News At a discussion on the Sustainable Development Goals, organized by the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, Pope Francis described climate change as an issue of great importance for humanity and the whole of creation. The discussion brought together finance ministers from various countries to reflect on the theme Climate Change and New Evidence from Science, Engineering, and Policy. Profits valued over persons Pope Francis lamented that, We live at a time when profits and losses seem to be more highly valued than lives and death, and when a companys net worth is given precedence over the infinite worth of our human family. On the contrary, Todays global interdependence obliges us to think in terms of one world with a common plan, and he called on finance ministers to work to achieve the goals agreed on by governments in the UNs Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement COP21. "The signs are not good" The Holy Father sounded a dire warning about the current state of affairs. The signs today are not good, he said, pointing to declining investment in clean energy and a rise in the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Citing leading climatologists and experts, Pope Francis said, Their message was clear and insistent. We need to act decisively to put an end to all emissions of greenhouse gases by mid-century at the very latest, and to do even more than that. Specifically, Pope Francis called on ministers to commit to several specific goals: - to value what is important, not what is superfluous; - to correct our national accounts and our business accounts, so as to stop engaging in activities that are destroying our planet; - to put an end to global dependency on fossil fuels; - to open a new chapter of clean and safe energy, that utilizes, for example, renewable resources such as wind, sun and water; - above all, to act prudently and responsibly in our economies to actually meet human needs, promote human dignity, help the poor and be set free of the idolatry of money that creates so much suffering. Waiting for decisive action Before all else, the Pope said, We must recognize the ledger of life itself, of human dignity and survival. He said it is his prayerful hope that, as stewards of the worlds finances, you will agree upon a common plan that accords with climate science, the latest in clean energy engineering, and above all the ethics of human dignity. Pope Francis told the finance ministers, Time is of the essence. We await your decisive action for the sake of all humanity. Click the link to read the full text the ADDRESS OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS at the "Climate Change and New Evidence from Science, Engineering, and Policy" Meeting with Finance Ministers from Various Nations. Industrial Zones (IZs) in Vietnam are a popular destination for foreign investors. But what are they? IZs are locations earmarked by Vietnams government for the industrial production of goods and services. Investors often locate in an IZ because IZs often have regionally competitive facilities, infrastructure, and logistics. Foreign invested companies are also able to tap into resources provided by the IZ as well as cost savings and financial incentives. Nevertheless, IZs differ significantly according to location, structure, incentives, and so on. Investors choosing to set up in an IZ should evaluate IZs closely in order to find a location that best suits their needs. Investors should consider several factors, when making a choice about where or if an establishment in an IZ makes sense for a given investment. Learning more about IZs is increasingly important. With investors moving factories to Vietnam, the domestic property market has experienced a boom with prices steadily rising. Ready to build factories were in the highest demand, which recorded more than an 85 percent occupancy rate. Binh Duong and Dong Nai in the southeast are the markets with the highest demand, given their access to transport infrastructure. Here, we highlight and compare three industrial zones in the north, central and southern part of the country which foreign investors can begin examining. This introduction can provide you and your team a good basis to begin assessing your next investment destination. Northern spotlight Dinh Vu Industrial Zone Hosting over 420 investment projects representing a cumulative value in excess of US$10 billion Dihn Vu Industrial Zone (DVIZ) is a well-established option for expansion to northern Vietnam. In addition to successfully hosting industry champions such as Chevron and Tamada, the completion of Lach Huyen Deep seaport capable of docking ships up to 100,000 TUE places DVIZ in direct proximity of northern Vietnams largest point of sea-based egress. Dinh Vu specializes in petrochemicals and heavy industry. Investors in the park include Petrolimex, Petro Vietnam, Nakashima, and Bridgestone, among others. Resources for investors Investors in DVIZ benefit from access to utilities and regulatory assistance that ensure operations function at full capacity. For firms seeking quick alternative sources of production, the ability to procure ready-made factories, and tap into Hai Phongs high skilled labor pools, ensure operations can be started and staffed in a timely manner. Exporters benefit from close proximity to Cat Bi International Airport, the newly constructed Highway 5, and proximity to the Chinese border. Cost savings instruments For companies interested in leveraging Vietnams cost competitiveness to its full potential, unconditional tax holidays present direct cost savings opportunities that can be factored into costs immediately. Within Dihn Vu, all investors are entitled to a four-year tax holiday on Corporate Income Tax, followed by nine years at 50 percent of the going CIT. Furthermore, enterprises exporting 100 percent of their goods to international markets qualify for a 100 percent exemption for import and export duties as well as a free VAT on certain purchases. Central SEZ spotlight Hoa Khan Industrial Zone (HKIZ) The Hoa Khan Industrial Zone (HKIZ) in central Vietnam offers investors access to a variety of Vietnams largest cities, as well as international export destinations via the North-South Railway at Da Nang Station, access to Han River Port, and proximity to highways 1A and 1B. HKIZ specializes in mechanical assembly and electronics manufacturing, and hosts companies like Seto Vietnam and Truong Giang Electric. HKIZ also houses a number of companies in the petrochemicals, garments, and agriculture industries. Resources for investors Within the industrial zone, investors benefit from infrastructure and facilities structured to meet the needs of Vietnams growing industries, such as garments and electronics. This includes access to water, electricity, as well as banking services. HKIZ also benefits from a steady pool of talent from Da Nang, the Central regions business hub. Cost saving Instruments In addition to up to five years of corporate income tax holidays, foreign investors are able to exempt all fixed assets and other materials essential to the upkeep of machinery needed for the production of goods within the zone. These advantages have not gone unnoticed to investors. With substantial growth in recent years, HKIZ is home to over 48 investment projects from the likes of Mabuchi Motor, Truong Giang Electric, and Seto. Southern SEZ spotlight VSIP Located in Binh Duong provinces Thuan An district, the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) is a good opportunity for those looking to establish themselves in the heart of Vietnams economic core. Specializing in mechanical, electric, and medical equipment, the park has been a massive success in recent years attracting 238 individual projects with a total value of US$2.6 billion. Resources for investors The park successfully integrates industrial, commercial, and residential facilities in a manner that meets the needs of a variety of investors. Within the park, investors benefit from access to an onsite customs office, ready built factories, as well as an educated workforce sourced from the Vietnam-Singapore Vocational College. These services are complemented by close proximity to the north-south railway, Ho Chi Minh Citys Tan Son Nhat international Airport, and multiple points of sea-based transport, including Saigon Port. Cost savings instruments To further incentivize investment, a series of tax incentives are also offered to investors within VSIP. For the first two years, investors are waived the requirement to pay any CIT. Following this two-year period, CIT is required, but at a discounted rate. A The gioi di dong store in Ha Noi. Sales of Huawei smartphones account for just 4-6 per cent of the chain's total sales. - VNS Photo Mai Huong According to the latest market strategy report by the VNDirect Securities Co, Huaweis smartphone market share in Viet Nam was only 4 per cent and worth VND2.65 trillion (roughly US$114 million) last year. Besides, though Huawei was the worlds second largest seller last year, the brand is not too strong in Viet Nam and there are many substitutes in the mid-range price category such as Oppo, Xiaomi and Nokia, it said. The market is dominated by Samsung, Oppo and Apple with respective shares of 41.1 per cent, 22.7 per cent and 8.6 per cent. Another Chinese brand, Xiaomi, had a 6 per cent share, it showed. On May 15, the US Commerce Department placed Huawei and its 70 affiliates on a trade blacklist, making it harder for the Chinese telecom giant to buy parts and components from US companies. A study by GCS-CIMB predicts this ban would drive down Huaweis smartphone sales in international markets by 40 per cent year-on-year in 2019, while sales of Oppo and Xiaomi would surge 60 per cent and 43 per cent. In Viet Nam, VNDirect expects an insignificant effect on FPT Retail and The gioi di dong (Mobile World), the two retailers distributing Huawei. For them, sales of Huawei smartphones account for just 4-6 per cent of total sales. But both retailers face inventory risk and have ongoing contracts for installment payment of Huawei products. VNDirect mentioned two possible scenarios: Huawei and its partners would share costs and liquidate the inventories by reducing prices and promotions or Huawei would buy back the stocks from partners like Samsung did with Galaxy Note 7 after the battery incident. Both FPT Retail and The gioi di dong are awaiting discussion with Huawei for optimal solution. In the unlikely case that Huawei does not support its partners, the latter would have to make provision for its current stocks of Huawei's products. The provision is expected to be VND110 billion for The gioi di dong and VND40 billion for FPT Retail, or 3.8 per cent and 11.5 per cent of their net profits in 2018, according to VNDirects estimates. Meanwhile, Digiworld is likely to benefit from this incident, since its main products are Nokia and Xiaomi, and any decline in Huawei sales would boost sales of those two brands. Staff at Van Don International Airport receive passengers from the airport's first international flight.-VNA/VNS Photo The route is operated by Donghai Airlines. There will be two charter flights per week on the route, on Monday and Friday. Director of Van Don Airport Pham Ngoc Sau said welcoming an international flight after only five months in operation was a new record in Vietnam. "New airports usually take three to five years to be able to welcome international flights," said Sau. Sau said the airport would create the best conditions for Donghai Airlines to continue to fly into Van Don. It will also promote Van Don and Ha Long Bay to customers in Shenzhen and mainland China. The opening of the new Van Don-Shenzhen route is a premise for Van Don Airport to continue pursuing its strategy towards the international market, starting with the most populous markets in Asia such as China, Taiwan, Thailand, South Korea and Japan, Sau said. In June, the airport will add international routes to Taiwan through Bamboo Airways and Incheon (South Korea) with Vietnam Airlines. For the Chinese market, there will be routes to Hainan, Nanning and Guangzhou. Its expected that by the end of 2019, it will add new routes to Japan and Bangkok, Thailand, Sau said. In the domestic market, it will add flights connecting Van Don with Da Nang, Phu Quoc and Nha Trang in the third quarter this year. After nearly five months of operation, Van Don Airport has welcomed more than 90,000 passengers with 664 flights by Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways and Vietjet Air. Adding international flights is expected to contribute to the plan to attract tourists to Quang Ninh, with the province targeting 15 to 16 million visitors including seven million foreign visitors by 2020. The airport has a capacity of receiving 2.5 million passengers per year and is expected to expand to a capacity of welcoming five million passengers per year by 2030. Recently, people saw a VinFast Lux SA2.0 in the yard of Vietnam Register. It is likely that this Lux SA2.0 was sent to register and is undergoing inspections before being launched for sale on the market. The VinFast Lux SA2.0 at the Vietnam Register (source: CafeF.vn) Meanwhile, the other VinFast Lux SA2.0 and A2.0 models are still being tested throughout the country. The vehicles leave the factory in Haiphong, go to Hanoi, and then move to the south to check their real performance. Currently, the commercial version of the cars is not fully ready yet, thus, the models arriving to the market may be different in some features. However, the main parts such as the chassis, engine, and gearbox seem to be finalised already. The VinFast cars undergoing road tests and the one in the Vietnam Register had stamps certifying the fuel consumption on the rear window and were equipped with a temporary license plate. The roadtests take 176 to 350 kilometre and are conducted by Magna Steyr, the leading brand-independent engineering and manufacturing partner for original equipment manufacturing from Austria. Magna Steyr tests the cars in urban areas, suburbs, highways, as well as different terrains such as steep mountain roads, bumpy, sandy, and flooded roads in common and less favourable conditions such as intense sunshine, fog, heavy rain, or thunderstorms. A VinFast car undergoing test runs (source: CafeF.vn) In the first phase, VinFast will check and adjust the air conditioning system (HVAC), by moving the vehicles in hot, humid, rainy weather, both day and night. The data collected during the test-drive process will be recorded by experts and will include the temperature difference between the car interior and outside, noting the passenger and driver experience. In the second phase, VinFast will test the vehicles on actual roads to see how they perform on different terrains, weather conditions, and how they react to different driving styles, checking the durability and the features of the vehicle under different operating conditions. The overall inspection process will improve the quality and features of VinFast cars, ensuring that they offer the best quality and are the most suitable for customers in Vietnam. Previously, since March 20, VinFast took its vehicles to 14 countries on four continents for quality and safety testing. A dairy farm of Viet Nam Dairy Products Joint Stock Company (Vinamilk) in Long Khanh Commune, Ben Cau District in the southern province of Tay Ninh. Vinamilks shares (VNM) soared by 2.7 per cent on Monday. - VNA/VNS Photo Le Duc Hoanh The VN-Index on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange increased 0.53 per cent to close at 975.14 points. The index lost a total of 0.66 per cent last week. The HNX-Index on the Ha Noi Stock Exchange dropped 0.33 per cent to end at 105.04 points. More than 138 million shares were traded on the two local exchanges, worth VND3.4 trillion (US$146 million). Worries about the US-China trade war continued to cast a shadow over global markets. Investors feared the escalation of the trade war would dampen global trade and the trade conflict would turn into a technology cold war, Reuters said. Asian stocks lingered near four-month lows on Monday. Chinese shares started Monday higher but then slumped, with the benchmark Shanghai Composite dropping by 0.3 per cent and the blue-chip CSI 300 falling 0.6 per cent. Hong Kong's Hang Seng declined 0.5 per cent. Vietnamese large-caps saw wide divergence among stock groups. Masan Group (MSN), dairy firm Vinamilk (VNM), brewery Sabeco (SAB), Vietjet Air (VJC), HDBank (HDB) and Vietcombank (VCB) gained to support the VN-Index with MSN up by 1.4 per cent, VNM 2.7 per cent, SAB 1.5 per cent, VJC 0.5 per cent, HDB 1.7 per cent and VCB 1.4 per cent. Bao Viet Holdings (BVH), Coteccons Construction Joint Stock Company (CTD) and Phu Nhuan Jewelry Joint Stock Company (PNJ) all declined, limiting the market's gains. BVH fell 1.2 per cent. CTD decreased 1.04 per cent and PNJ fell 1.4 per cent. Several oil and gas stocks increased such as PetroVietnam Drilling and Well Services Corporation (PVD), PetroVietnam Gas JSC (GAS) and Petrovietnam Transportation Corporation (PVT). Sectors that increased included logistics, oil and gas, seafood processing, banking, real estate and food and beverages. The agriculture, insurance, securities, construction and construction materials sectors reported losses. According to Bao Viet Securities Company (BVSC), the VN-Index is expected to alternate between ups and downs in upcoming sessions. After last weeks decline, the VN-Index might sit between 965 and 993 points in the short run, before sending signals to indicate what it will do next," BVSC said. "The market may recover in early sessions of the week then decline to the 960-965 support zone in the remaining sessions." Cash inflows are expected to be spread out this week among textiles, real estate, industrial parks, rubber, information technology and electricity. As the market is expected to remain flat in the short term, stock exposure should be limited at a maximum of 50 per cent of an investor's portfolio, BVSC recommended. Investors with high cash proportion should buy stocks at their support zones. Flying over rising water on terraced paddies" festival is becoming a signature product of Yen Bai tourism. (Photo: VNA) This is the third year the festival has been held in Yen Bais Khau Pha mountain pass of Cao Pha commune in Mu Cang Chai district, at a height of about 1,270m ASL (480m AGL), where it is renowned for being one of the top four famous mountain passes in the northwestern region for their stunning beauty. The sunny weather allowed local people and visitors to enjoy the captivating performances of domestic and international paragliding pilots. Those tourists, who want to have an aerial view of Mu Cang Chais striking landscapes, could also register to fly with the pilots. According to Luong Thi Xuyen, Vice Chairwoman of the Mu Cang Chai District People's Committee, this years event took place on May 25-26 and there will be about ten pilots who will perform on every Saturday and Sunday on the following weeks. On this occasion, Mu Cang Chai district also organized other activities, such as local product and books display, and community-tourism tours for visitors. Flying over rising water on terraced paddies" festival is becoming a signature product of Yen Bai tourism. Residents of Phnom Penh's Sras Chak community on the northern edge of Boeung Kak lake said yesterday that officials forcibly damaged their homes by claiming that the land they live on belongs to Shukaku Inc., a private property developer owned by ruling party senator Lao Meng Khin. The residents, however, said that they have been living on the land for more than twenty years and that they seek proper compensation, for the damage done to their homes. Chhit Sokun, 47, owner of a twin rowhouses, whose backyard was bulldozed into , told VOA Khmer that her family has occupied the land since 1990s. I bought it from a soldier in 1992, and in 2010 the Phnom Penh Municipality said they sold this land to a company to invest, said Sokun. On Monday, dozens of local officials and policemen blocked the road around the disputed area. Reporters and human rights group were barred from entering the heavily-guarded area. Two excavators were deployed to tear down the backyards of disputing residents. "It is painful," Sokun said. I bought this land. I did not get it for free or claimed parts of the lake freely like others did. I would give it back without regret had I received it for free. But, no, I bought it from a soldier. The residents sought to meet with Shukaku Inc. to negotiate for compensation. So Leng, 65, whose house and backyard were also partly damaged, hopes that they will finally get a reasonable compensation from the company. We have lived here for ages, and they said we do not have rightful ownership. The company that just arrived suddenly received rightful ownership, she said. Please help me to reason it, I am the land owner. Even those who lived in the water get compensation, but I have not. Another resident who identified herself only as Tob, 35, and sells construction materials, also sought compensation. We are not going against the company. [We just] ask that [the company] please give us reasonable compensation. We cannot allow you to just destroy our homes because we bought this land, she said. We have been here since the company was not born. Kan Vannak, police chief of Sras Chak commune told VOA Khmer that he was not aware of the incident. Why didn't you ask those who blocked the road yourself? Why do you ask me who knows nothing about it? Seung Senkarona, a spokesman for human rights group ADHOC said that authorities should try to negotiate peacefully with the residents before destroying their houses. We know that this kind of strategy does not benefit anyone but rather affects law enforcement. It shows that Cambodia uses aggressive interventions and it also affects citizens rights. Neither Phnom Penh municipal spokesman, the district chief or Shukaku Inc representative could be reached for comment on Monday. Shukaku Inc's plans to drain and develop the former inner city lake have been one of the citys most controversial developments in recent history. It has resulted in the complete filling in of the former lake and affected 4,000 families living in the area. The development has also drawn strong international criticism. Prime Minister Hun Sen on Monday praised his Win-Win Policy, which he said has ensured peace and helped build the economy and develop Cambodia since 1998. The remark from the long-time ruler came as he delivered a speech at the 75th session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN-ESCAP) in Bangkok, under the theme Empowering People and Ensuring Inclusiveness and Equality. Hun Sen, a former Khmer Rouge soldier, claimed that through his Win-Win Policy, Cambodia has been achieving strong economic growth for the past two decades, with GDP rates increasing up to 7.7 percent annually. He added that the poverty rate has also dropped from 53 percent in 2004 to 13.5 percent in 2014 and is currently expected to have dropped to around 10 percent. The premier stressed to a hall of attending delegates that with this positive progress following twenty years of peace, ordinary Cambodians have participated in maintaining harmony in the country. Based on this experience, the entire Cambodian nation highly values the effort in continuing to preserve peace and stability as well as encourage inclusive development, which is yielding true results for Cambodians throughout the country, he said. Hun Sens announcement about Cambodians social and economic progress over the past two decades comes as the European Union is conducting an eighteen-month revision for the suspension of a trade preference known as Everything But Arms due to the countrys human rights and democratic setbacks. The EUs measure has stirred worries among private-sector representatives, including the European Chamber of Commerce, the Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia (GMAC), as well as independent unions, all of whom foresee severe economic damages should Cambodia lose EBA preferences. To celebrate his Win-Win achievement, Hun Sen built a so-called Win-Win Monument. Rong Chhun, a former member of the National Election Committee (NEC), previously said that the construction of the Win-Win Monument does not reflect the reality in Cambodia. He said there is no more civil war. Rather, he said, Cambodia is plagued by political prosecutions and violation of human rights, all of which have drawn international condemnation. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen on Tuesday reiterated that he would deliver a keynote speech around the theme, In Search of the New Global Order - Overcoming the Chaos, at an international conference this week in Japan, where Asian political, economic and academic leaders will discuss global issues. Mr. Hun Sen will deliver his speech at the Future of Asia,' international conference in Tokyo, where its 25th session this year will run from May 29 to May 31. A regional analyst said that Mr. Hun Sen is likely to talk about the challenges brought about by rising powers with large emerging economies like China, Brazil, India, and Russia. These countries have contributed to creating a new form of multipolar relations. Dr. Chheang Vannrith, director of Asian Vision, told VOA Khmer that the premier will also likely discuss the role of ASEAN in the context of this new global order as well as Cambodias policy of neutrality. In this context, Cambodia has shaken hands with China and Japan, and Cambodia has also shaken hands with Russia and India to absorb the benefits for its national interest, he said. The analyst added that the Cambodian leader is driving his country to a new multipolar world order, in which the United States seems to have abandoned its role as the World Police amid challenges from emerging powers like China, India, and Russia. Thus, his message would be on the issues of multipolar order, the role of ASEAN and the power rivalries between Asias powers, and the neutral policy of Cambodia which will not take sides with anyone, he added. Hun Sen, who left Cambodia Tuesday for the conference in Japan, is expected to share his perspectives on the current global context, future prospect, and Cambodias commitment and contribution to promoting regional and global harmony, peace and shared prosperity. The two-day conference, to be attended by leaders from across Asia, will focus on a wide range of issues, including trade war between China and the U.S., rivalries for global supremacy of military technology, and the rise of trade protectionism. According to the conference website, Hun Sen will deliver his speech on May 30 after Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad. During his visit in Japan, Prime Minister Hun Sen will meet bilaterally with Shinzo Abe, prime minister of Japan, to sign two agreements for development projects in Cambodia, worth about $5 million. Meanwhile a number of activists and Cambodians living in Japan have planned protests against Hun Sens visit, according to a statement from Cambodia National Rescue Movement in Japan. However, Cambodian government spokesman Phay Siphan said that the protests would not have any impact on the prime ministers visit. Zimbabwes disused mines continue to be a death trap for poor and desperate illegal miners in search of the precious minerals to earn a living. Columbus Mavhunga travelled to Matopo a gold rich area about 500 kilometers south of Harare, where mining continues despite some having been trapped earlier this month. U.S. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump will wrap up a trip to Japan by addressing American service personnel Tuesday at the naval base at Yokosuka outside Tokyo. Despite differences on North Korea and trade, the president's trip is highlighting U.S. security commitments to its ally in the region, as well as an opportunity for Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to show Japan is shouldering its defense burden. VOA White House correspondent Patsy Widakuswara reports. A court in northern Vietnam on Wednesday sentenced a student activist to six years in prison for using social media to promote a multiparty system and press freedom amid a heightened crackdown on dissent. Phan Kim Khanh was also given four year of probation after being convicted of spreading propaganda against the state at the trial that lasted half a day in Thai Nguyen province, his lawyer Ha Huy Son said. ``The evidence (presented against him) was groundless and I think the sentencing is absurd,'' Son said. Son said the court convicted Khanh of opposing the communist state by using his two blogs and a YouTube channel to promote multiparty democracy and press freedom. Khanh admitted in court to have run the social media platforms, but said his main purpose was to fight corruption and he did not know that constituted a crime, Son said. The 24-year-old was arrested in March while in his final year of an international studies degree at the Thai Nguyen University. Human rights groups have appealed for his immediate release and called on leaders of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in Vietnam next month, including President Donald Trump, to pressure Hanoi to improve its rights record. ``International donors and trade partners need to step up pressure on the country's leaders to improve its abysmal rights record, and the APEC Summit is a good moment to start,'' Brad Adams, Asia director at Human Rights Watch, said in a statement. Police have arrested at least 28 people and charged them with ``vaguely interpreted'' national security violations over the past year, according to Human Rights Watch. The communist state does not tolerate any challenge to its one-party rule and maintains that only law breakers are put behind bars. Cambodian political observers say intimidation has been a widely used tool in the government for decades but that recently, there has been a shift in the practice to ensure the ruling party wins the next national election. Scores of former opposition members and activists were summoned to court, self-exiled opposition leader Sam Rainsy was sentenced to prison, and a group that included opposition supporters was interrupted while eating traditional Cambodian noodles. Authorities say the summoning of opposition members was needed to investigate alleged illegal activities and the disregarding of court orders. But Mu Sochua, vice president of the now-dissolved opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party, thinks the developments are part of a long-term strategy by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sens party to secure a victory in the elections scheduled for 2023. She said local authorities wouldnt dare act without direction from their superiors and were implementing orders from the prime minister. He [Hun Sen] is very certain that he cannot compete with us. And he is now even more threatened, she said. He knows that the grassroots of the CNRP are very, very deep, deep in every single village. He knows it because after 2017, when the party was dissolved, the grassroots did not defect as he expected... Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director of Human Rights Watch, agreed, and said in an email to VOA that the court summonses serve to "harass and intimidate local CNRP councilors." Clearly, the government aims to compel silence at the grassroots in the provinces and further pressure exiled CNRP leaders to dedicate precious time and efforts to defend their members. So far, the Cambodian government has been effective in stampeding many activists out of the country and it looks like they are now taking aim at the thousands of local CNRP councilors, who were stripped of their seats when the government-controlled court banned the party, he said. Last week, human rights group Civicus Monitor observed ongoing judicial harassment and attacks on opposition leaders and activists." Cambodia government spokesman Phay Siphan denied that authorities were attempting to harass local opposition activists. Instead, he said they were investigating whether national security was under threat, with local activists potentially meeting to plot against the government. They were also collecting evidence, he said, as to whether a Supreme Court ruling that banned 118 opposition members from politics for five years had been disregarded. It doesnt mean ex-opposition party members have the right to do everything they like, no! They have to respect national security, he said. Old strategy in a new framework Robertson and Sochua said they believed that intimidation of the opposition had long belonged to the ruling Cambodian People's Partys playbook on how to govern; however, they both argued that a perceived shift had taken place in recent months. What's new in the government's strategy is the focus on targeting local CNRP councilors who have previously been largely ignored while the authorities went after party leader Kem Sokha, national [members of parliament], and CNRP leaders in exile, Robertson said. The apparent targets are the provinces Battambang, Banteay Meanchey and Kampong Thom, regions that traditionally have supported opposition parties. While agreeing that a shift had taken place since the dissolution of the CNRP, political analyst Meas Nee views the recent action in a larger context. He argues that the Cambodian People's Party, or CPP, had lost its grip over local communes and was now trying to re-establish control of villages and communes that it had held in the 1980s, but had gradually lost since. I think the structure of the ruling party to control the people has been weakened, he said, explaining that human rights abuses, such as land grabbing, had pushed people to increasingly support opposition movements. But while in the 1990s many people were too afraid to openly align with opposition parties because some supporters were killed, he said people were now less afraid to support the CNRP. The CPP, he argues, was therefore attempting to regain control by monitoring people on the local level. Now I think [authorities] have their own system back in place, he said. The ruling party ran a two-coin strategy, Nee said, of strengthening its own local structure, while at the same time attempting to destroy the opposition. For opposition figure Sochua, the government pretexts to intimidate the opposition were unlikely to stop soon, and would often take place under the justification of an alleged color revolution, or resistance effort, being planned by the opposition. Whether we eat noodles, whether we drink coffee, whether we dig a hole together, whether we stand on a street together, there will always be an excuse used to label it as color revolution. Whether we walk around naked, it will still be a color revolution, she said. The Egyptian military and police forces have committed widespread abuses in the northern Sinai Peninsula, according a new report by Human Rights Watch, which said some of the actions amount to war crimes. The report alleges that Egyptian security forces, who have been conducting military operations against Islamist insurgents in the region, have engaged in unlawful action against civilians in the region. The report describes widespread extrajudicial arrests and killings, as well as torture, forced evictions and collective punishment by Egyptian security forces. Egyptian forces have also armed and trained militias that have conducted abuses and rights violations, according to the report. The organization documented 50 cases of arbitrary arrests and specifies that in 39 of the cases, the individuals were likely disappeared. The report also describes torture sites that detained children as young as 12 years old, according to former detainees. Egyptian government officials have dismissed the report. The HRW report also notes alleged abuses committed by Islamic State affiliates in the region, including kidnappings and executions. The local branch of IS claimed responsibility for the bombing of Metrojet Flight 9268 in October 2015, killing all 224 people on board. The plane crashed in the Sinai Peninsula after taking off from Sharm el-Sheikh. The conflict in the northern Sinai region has escalated since 2013, following the ouster of Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi by then-defense minister Abdel Fatah el-Sissi. The government subsequently mobilized tens of thousands of forces to the region The report calls on the Egyptian government to allow the Red Cross into the region and calls for the ceasing off all aid to Egypt until an investigation confirms that the abuses have stopped. European leaders are in Brussels to choose their preferred candidates for top European Union positions after last week's parliamentary elections, but already are divided on who should be the next president of the European Commission, the executive arm of the 28-nation bloc. The term of Luxembourg's Jean-Claude Juncker as president of the commission ends in October. But Germany and France, two of the biggest economic forces on the continent, are at odds on who should replace him, a choice that must be ratified by the 751-member parliament when it assumes power in July. German Chancellor Angela Merkel favors fellow countryman Manfred Weber, who has led the conservative European People's Party group, the biggest in the EU assembly, since 2014. The EPP, even as it lost seats in the parliamentary elections, still constitutes the largest bloc of lawmakers and her support for Weber is in line with past practice in picking a European Commission president from the leading party in the parliament. WATCH: Pro-European parties lose but take lead But the big centrist blocs in parliament will lose their majority in the new legislature, with nationalists and Greens gaining ground, leading to a more fragmented assembly and possibly more difficulty in picking a consensus nominee for president of the commission, which proposes EU laws and enforces them. French President Emmanuel Macron told reporters he favors a nominee with "experience either in their country or in Europe that allows them to have credibility and savoir faire," an apparent attack on the 46-year-old Weber, who has never served in government or a major institution like the commission. Macron suggested two alternative nominees, Denmark's Margrethe Vestager, the European Commissioner for Competition since 2014, and Frenchman Michael Barnier, who has led the EU's so-far unsuccessful negotiations with Britain over London's Brexit effort to divorce itself from the EU. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez suggested a fellow socialist, Dutchman Frans Timmermans, saying he "has the qualities and the experience." The European leaders are also picking a new leader of the EU Council, a body that defines the European Union's overall political direction and is now headed by Poland's Donald Tusk; the European Central Bank, now led by Italian Mario Draghi and a new foreign policy chief, currently Italian Federica Mogherini. In Accra's district of Old Fadama, the largest slum in Ghana's capital, a government official interrupts a group of men playing cards. The official carries a tablet and asks if anyone has time for a few questions to test an electronic questionnaire. Ghana is preparing for its first digital population and housing census next March, joining Swaziland, Malawi and Kenya as one of the first countries in Africa to collect data electronically. Long-time resident Mohammed Basiru volunteers. He was missed out of the head count during Ghana's previous census in 2010 because he was traveling overnight from the northern city of Tamale. At that time, questionnaires were on paper. It took months to gather and assemble the data, and around 3% of the population was left out of the survey. Now the government will be going digital, using tablets and satellite images to improve the reach of enumerators and make sure everyone in Ghana is counted on census night. Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia said the data would help fight inequality. "We must count everyone and make everyone accountable to pay their fair share in taxes that would be used to target assistance to those who may not have had access to critical social services previously," said Bawumia at an event last week. The census is expected to cost $84 million, around 50% more than the last census. The government has contracted around 60,000 enumerators, but is still working with the United Nations on how best to source the 65,000 tablets required to conduct the surveys. Officials say Kenya may be able to lend out the tablets after it completes its first digital census later this year. Araba Forson, chief statistician for the Ghana Statistical Service, said technology would prevent enumerators from under-staffing densely populated areas a problem encountered in 2010 because the population maps they used were out of date. "Satellite imagery will tell us that there are people living in this part of the country that the enumerator may not have visited," she said. "Using electronic data collection, we will be able to make sure that everyone has been covered." Ghana's urban population has more than doubled during the past two decades, rising from 7 million in 1997 to almost 16 million in 2017, according to the World Bank. Many people have moved from poorer rural areas in search for work, joining the millions of street vendors and waste pickers who make up most of Ghana's informal economy. Together with the homeless, they are the "floating population" whom government statisticians want to capture better in their database. And the stakes are higher this time, as the census will play a key part in the nationwide rollout of biometric ID cards launched by President Nana Akufo-Addo in 2017. The new Ghana Card requires a digital address code, many of which will be generated by enumerators during the census. In Agbogbloshie district, notorious for housing a toxic junkyard of electronic waste, community member Naa Ardo-Acquah said some slum dwellers were suspicious of the ID registration process. "In the Choko community, they thought the card means to tax," she said. "The authorities didn't sensitize them on it." Ardo-Acqhua hopes the new digital address system will stop city authorities from removing slum dwellers from their homes. But distrust remains an issue, and officials testing tablets and marking houses in poorer areas said some of their numbers were later removed by informal residents who feared eviction. "Our publicity and communication team has developed communication materials, both print and audiovisuals, that will be used to educate the people," said Omar Seidu, a social statistician for the Ghana Statistical Service. Seidu said his team would be working closely with community leaders before the census to make sure the process is understood. Ardo-Acqhua has said she still worries the government will not send enough staff to Agbogbloshie. She spent days helping people register for their ID cards at centers set up by the National Identification Authority, and said many were discouraged by long lines. "They only came for three days and less than half the community was able to sign up," she said. "I don't know what they are going to do about that." This is a night of a marvelous victory! Marvelous! Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu triumphantly declared after hearing the election results. That was 49 days ago, and Netanyahu appeared securely positioned to come July become the longest serving prime minister in the Jewish state's history. However, early Tuesday, in the second of four readings, the Knesset voted 66 to 44 to order a new round of elections. Netanyahu sought the vote as he has failed to form a coalition and his deadline is Wednesday. What happened? Netanyahus Likud party and his natural allies the right wing and ultra-orthodox parties command 65 seats in the 120-member Knesset. Each faction, but one, can deny him the 61 votes he needs to win the Knessets confidence. But two of those factions, the ultra-orthodox Yahadut Hatorah and the secular Israel Beitenu, are led by dominant figures. Their clash is over a plan to reduce the number of rabbinical students who get automatic, renewable, draft deferments. Some 50,000 Israelis learn in those institutions and the rabbis see to them. Israel Beitenus leader, former defense minister Avigdor Liberman, insists on a passing a law to gradually reduce the number of deferments. We are not talking of a right-wing government, but a government of net halacha [Jewish religious law] and we are definitely no partners to forming a government of halacha, he said Monday. If Liberman votes against the confidence motion, Netanyahu will not win the Knessets confidence. New elections may not be bad for the right- wing, which is under-represented in the Knesset. More than a quarter of a million votes went down the drain, in April, when two right-wing lists failed to pass the threshold. That is tantamount to some seven mandates and if there are new elections soon, the factions that proved their survivability could gain more power. Netanyahus rush to call for new elections seems to be a move to deny President Reuven Rivlin the opportunity of giving another member of Knesset a chance to form a coalition. Netanyahu feared Rivlin, who is no fan of the prime minister, would ask former education minister Gideon Saar, also of the Likud, to try his hand. There are other options and once a new elections bill turns into law, the presidents hands are tied. Another option could be former military Chief of General Staff Benny Gantz, who leads the Blue-White faction and like the Likud, has 35 mandates. Blue-White can hardly expect support from the ultra-orthodox or right-wing parties but made a proposal: If someone else would head the Likud, anyone but Netanyahu, a national unity government could be formed, Blue-Whites Yair Lapid, a former finance minister, said. Gantz indicated as much. Netanyahus insistence on preserving his seat at all costs is the main and only barrier to forming a national agreement party, he said. The Likud and Blue-White would then have a majority, would not need more partners, and would follow a center-right, more moderate policy. Which boils the issue down to Netanyahu. He will be charged with bribery and breach of trust unless he convinces the attorney general, Avichai Mandelblit, to drop the accusations. The hearing is scheduled for October. Netanyahu insists the accusations are baseless and he will disprove them in the hearing. But he seems to be doing his best to postpone a hearing and has argued voters chose him despite all the bad news. A first class campaigner, he persuaded many Israelis that he and his family are victims of persecution. Political science professor Avraham Diskin told VOA that Netanyahu has become a symbol to Likud voters and members of Knesset, of a pursuit of the Right. That is why his faction backs him, Diskin suggested. Netanyahus detractors refer to the draft charge sheets, leaked evidence, the fact that the chief of police when he was investigated and the attorney general are right-wingers whom Netanyahu had hand-picked. To secure his freedom, Netanyahu seeks parliamentary immunity and is likely to get it, especially if he is prime minister. The High Court of Justice can nullify his immunity and there is a Likud move to amend the law so the Knesset can override a High Court of Justice decision. Netanyahus coalition partners support the change which infuriates the opposition, lawyers, and judges who warn against weakening the judiciary that protects peoples rights. Israel moved closer to new parliamentary elections Tuesday as lawmakers voted in favor of the first of three procedural moves necessary to dissolve the current parliament. The 66 to 44 vote set a tentative date of September 17 for a new election, if the measure makes it through the final two rounds of voting. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been unable to form a new government since his party won the most seats in an election last month. He has until Wednesday to reach a coalition deal with other parties or risk having Israel's president give someone else a chance to form a coalition government. Netanyahu is unlikely to allow that to take place, preferring to take his chances in a new election. His prospective coalition has been thrown into turmoil by former defense minister Avigdor Lieberman, sometimes a Netanyahu ally and sometimes a rival. Lieberman has demanded passage of a new law mandating that young ultra-Orthodox men be drafted into the Israeli military, like most other Jewish men, while Netanyahus ultra-Orthodox allies have called for the current draft exemptions to remain in place. In a statement late Monday, Netanyahu called for his potential coalition partners to put "the good of the nation above every other interest" to avoid what he said would be "expensive, wasteful" elections. The Israeli leader said he was hopeful that a compromise could be forged before the late Wednesday deadline for him to form a new government. But he acknowledged, "Unfortunately, I haven't been able to convince Lieberman to avoid another election. The reality is that we must be responsible and form a government immediately." Netanyahu cannot form a government without the five seats of Lieberman's Yisrael Beiteinu party. "The draft law has become a symbol, and we will not capitulate on our symbols," Lieberman said, vowing to press for new parliamentary elections if his demand is not met. Ultra-Orthodox parties consider military conscription a violation of their religious beliefs, fearing that military service will lead to secularization. But such exemptions from military service are widely resented by other Jewish Israelis. Some Likud adherents say that Lieberman is motivated by his personal spite for Netanyahu, but Lieberman says he will not give in to religious coercion. "I will not be a partner to a Halachic state," he said, using the word for Jewish law. The U.N. Development Program says Mozambique will host a pledging conference later this week to raise money for reconstruction efforts in the wake of cyclones Idai and Kenneth that devastated the country over the months in March and April. The cyclones, hitting weeks apart, have impacted 1.85 million people, according to the UNDP. The conference will take place on May 31 and June 1 in the city of Beira, an area severely impacted by the cyclones The cyclones severely weakened the countrys health care infrastructure and reduced access to sanitation and safe water, resulting in an outbreak of cholera. The cyclones also destroyed much of the nations residential infrastructure. Houses and other buildings have been destroyed, leaving many without adequate shelter. According to Mozambique's National Institute of Disaster Management, more than 23,000 people are without shelter. Availability of food is also an issue in Mozambique, with many crops devastated by the cyclones. According to the UNDP, the first day of the conference will focus on technical discussions, whereas the second day, which will be headed by Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi, is to be oriented around pledges. The Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA), a study evaluating the extent of the cyclones impact, forms the basis of the Beira conference, according to Mozambique government spokesperson Ana Comoana, who is quoted in a U.N. press release. Myanmar's early release of seven soldiers who were jailed for killing a group of Rohingya Muslims is drawing criticism from rights activists. Four officers and three enlisted service members were freed last November, Reuters first reported, after being sentenced in 2018 to 10 years in prison with hard labor for killing 10 Rohingya men and boys the year before. Prisons department head Myint Soe confirmed to reporters Tuesday in Yangon the soldiers were "no longer in custody," but he declined to provide more information. The soldiers served less time than two Reuters reporters who were jailed for exposing the massacre. Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo were jailed last September after being sentenced to seven years on charges linked to their reporting. They served 500 days and then were released after receiving a presidential pardon. The massacre occurred during a military crackdown in 2017 that forced nearly three-quarters of a million Rohingya to flee to neighboring Bangladesh. United Nations investigators have said the violence warrants the prosecution of top military leaders for "genocide." The International Criminal Court has launched a preliminary investigation into the killings. Human Rights Watch Deputy Asia Director told the VOA Burmese Service the early release of the soldiers reveals that top Myanmar military leaders "don't really consider the Rohingya to be human, and were never committed to seeing anyone held accountable for their crimes in Rakhine state." Asia Human Rights Commission attorney Min Lwin Oo said in an interview with VOA Burmese the soldiers' early release "obviously shows that the military does not care about the judicial system." The Rohingya are widely viewed in Myanmar as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. The military has justified its 2017 crackdown, which involved mass killings, gang rapes and widespread arson, as a way of eradicating Rohingya insurgents. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has reinstated the Ukrainian citizenship of Mikheil Saakashvili, the former Georgian president who served as governor of Ukraine's Odesa region in 2015-16. In a decree signed and posted on the presidential website on May 28, Zelenskiy annulled a portion of his predecessor Petro Poroshenko's July 2017 decree that stripped Saakashvili of his citizenship. Zelenskiy's decree comes eight days after his inauguration and six days after Saakashvili's lawyer, Ruslan Chornolutskiy, filed a request seeking restoration of Saakashvili's citizenship. Saakashvili was granted Ukrainian citizenship and appointed to the Odesa governor's post in 2015 by Poroshenko, an acquaintance from their student days. Authorities in Tbilisi stripped Saakashvili of his Georgian citizenship in December 2015 on grounds that Georgia does not allow dual citizenship. Then, when relations between Poroshenko and Saakashvili soured over corruption allegations and slow reform efforts, Poroshenko in November 2016 sacked Saakashvili from the Odesa governor's post. In July 2017, after Saakashvili created an opposition party called the Movement of New Forces, Poroshenko issued a decree that stripped Saakashvili of his Ukrainian citizenship. In February last year, Saakashvili was detained in Kyiv, taken to the airport, and flown to Poland. Days later, Ukraine's border service banned Saakashvili from entering Ukraine until February 13, 2021. Saakashvili swept to power in Georgia after helping lead the peaceful Rose Revolution protests there in 2003, when he was mayor of Tbilisi. His party was dislodged from power by an opposition force in 2012 parliamentary elections and his term as president expired in 2013. Saakashvili currently resides in the Netherlands, his wife's native country. Rights groups in Indonesia investigating charges of police brutality are complaining that police are operating with impunity against demonstrators after the release of election results last week. The investigation is examining the police response to rioters, who reportedly attacked a Jakarta police academy during protests. City of Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan says eight people were killed. "As a moment of moral clarity, you can't deny that it was a grave oversight. It could annul the good perception that the public has of the police," Usman Hamid, country director of the Indonesian chapter of Amnesty International, told VOA. Noting that police have been praised by some for their restraint in their handling of the riots, he said, "We demanded that the police investigate the violence, identify the suspects openly, and give justice to the victims." Rioters threw rocks and Molotov cocktails last week at the police academy and in front of a building housing the elections oversight body. The riots followed peaceful protests against presidential election results. In video authenticated by National Police, 30-year-old Andri Bibir is seen being hit by police officers. "Even killers and corruptors have to stand before the law," Usman said. Andri says it is him being beaten in the video and admitted at a news conference conducted by National Police that he was collecting rocks to throw. The mass protests in which demonstrators demanded the April 17 Indonesian elections results confirming President Joko Widodo's re-election be thrown out for foul play initially were peaceful. But National Police say new groups entered several Central Jakarta neighborhoods and started rioting. Police deployed tear gas and fired blank bullets in response. National Police General Dedi Prasetyo told VOA an investigation of the police to determine what happened and who is responsible "will be put in place." He previously said no officers were armed with real bullets. The riots led to blocked streets, including the major thoroughfares of Medan Merdeka Barat and Imam Bonjol roads. The Indonesian government also restricted use of Instagram and Facebook to curb the spread of rumors action that rights groups decried. Political opposition groups protested official election results when they were released last week. Many claimed foul play, including the case of pre-marked ballots in Malaysia, took place. The police also have charged politician Eggi Sudjana and former military officer Kivlan Zen with treason. Additionally, the National Police last week named former military officer Soenarko for allegedly supplying firearms to protesters. Incumbent President Joko was re-elected in Indonesia's April 17 vote. His opponent, Prabowo Subianto, and his legal counsel filed an appeal Friday to the Constitutional Court. Police impunity National Police Commissioner Poengky Indarti said the brutality during last week's riots cannot be considered impunity. "There's still legal process that the National Police go through," she said. "Violence can be a last resort if the [acts committed by rioters] endanger the lives of the police, the people or the loss of property." Poengky says journalists and medical teams also were subjected to police brutality, adding that both sides' participation in the violence should be examined. "But I agree that excessive force should not be used," she said. In 2011, police officers violently dispersed the Third People's Congress on the country's easternmost island of Papua. In 2014, police and military personnel fired bullets at 800 peaceful demonstrators, leaving six dead. On Papua alone, Amnesty International says that between January 2010 to February 2018, there were 69 unlawful killings perpetrated by the military or police. Usman of Amnesty International said the case of Andri Bibir is an example of the impunity in play. "The punishment for those who collected and threw the rocks is different," he said. "Do the people who collect rocks need to be instantly executed by getting stomped, kicked or dragged [like Andri]?" Normally the delivery of twins is a cause for celebration and when the head of government is one of the parents and the other is an aspiring politician it opens up the possibility for cute photo-opportunities. Not so in Russia under the command of Vladimir Putin, it would seem, where the private life of Russias leader is apparently off-limits, say analysts. Rumors have been swirling for days in Moscow that the Russian leaders reputed 36-year-old girlfriend, former Olympic gold medal-winning rhythmic gymnast Alina Kabaeva and now a media executive, gave birth to twin boys earlier this month in the Russian capital. Nicknamed "the secret first lady," Kabaeva, three decades younger than Putin, was rumored in 2008 to have given birth to a daughter at a private Swiss clinic recommended by Italian politician Silvio Berlusconi. Then, as now, the Kremlin has moved to scotch reports of the births. Putin, who guards his private life fiercely possibly a habit from his days as a KGB agent has long denied he is in a relationship with Kabaeva. Asked once daringly about a possible romance, Putin responded: Ive always had a negative feeling about people poking their snotty noses and erotic fantasies into other peoples lives. In 2013, Putin announced the end of his 30-year marriage to wife Lyudmila Shkrebneva, with whom he has two grown-up daughters. He appeared in public for the announcement with his estranged wife, a former Aeroflot flight attendant and languages teacher, during the interval of a performance by the Kremlin Ballet. During their marriage, Shkrebneva, who since her divorce with Putin has remarried, kept a low public profile and her appearances were kept to a minimum. The Kremlin moved swiftly last week to stop news stories of the delivery of twins, say media insiders a further example of their strict management of top newspapers and news-sites, especially when it comes to coverage of Putin. In 2016, three editors at Russia's RBC media group, were fired over an article on the sources of Putins wealth in what media watchdogs feared would mark the demise of investigative reporting in Russia. The website of newspaper Moskovsky Komsomolets, which is owned by one of the Russian leaders oligarch friends, Arkady Rotenberg, reported the alleged Kabaeva births. But the report was quickly removed. Russian officials decline to comment. But reports here and there on Kabaeva, an Uzbek by birth, have continued amid accusations by Putin loyalists that they are being encouraged by Ukrainian enemies of the Russian leader. One site, dni.ru, announced in a headline: Alina Kabaeva gave birth to twins and disappeared. A showbiz website, Dom2Life, which is owned by another oligarch close to Putin, Alexander Karmanov, first reported the births on May 12, Kabaeva's 36th birthday. And according to Russian investigative journalist, Sergei Kanev, Kabaeva gave birth to twin boys by Caesarean at the Kulakov maternity clinic, where the VIP floor had been cleared in advance. He told Britains Daily Mail a doctor from Italy helped with the C-section delivery. Kabaeva became a model on leaving competitive sport and was a Russian lawmaker until 2014. She now heads the National Media Group. The mystery surrounding Kabaeva coincides with a further crackdown on the media in Russia amid rising complaints about shrinking press freedom and the Kremlins increasing determination to manage coverage. Earlier this month, nearly a dozen journalists quit their posts at Kommersant, a liberal business-focused newspaper, and at one time a trailblazer for press freedom, in protest at the firing of two star reporters, Ivan Safronov and Maxim Ivanov. They co-wrote an article that ran afoul of the Kremlin, they say. The newspaper is owned by billionaire Alisher Usmanov, another oligarch with close ties to Putin. One of the sacked reporters, Maxim Ivanov said on his Facebook page: Im no longer employed at the Kommersant publishing house. To avoid waxing lyrical: formally, my resignation from Kommersant is a mutual agreement between parties, but the decision to terminate my employment was made by the publishing houses stakeholder. In March, another Kommersant journalist, Maria Karpenko, was fired over her reports on political developments in St. Petersburg. The unfolding events at Kommersant have prompted the condemnation of the media watchdog and NGO Reporters Without Borders, which said in a statement May 20 that it is dismayed but the firings, dubbing them a terrible blow to what is left of journalistic independence in Russia. According to The Bell, an independent news outlet, Kommersant had been accorded by the Kremlin some independence, unlike many rival outlets, but is subject to censorship on political topics. The mass resignation of journalists will now call this arrangement into question. It added that it is not entirely clear why the article [by Ivanov and Safronov] upset the authorities so much. The story reported that Valentina Matvienko, the speaker of Russias upper house of parliament, would resign soon and be replaced by Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russias foreign intelligence service. Russian journalists fear the curtailing of editorial independence will only get stricter. In March, Putin signed new laws against the spreading fake news and showing blatant disrespect to the state with fines or jail sentences for offenders. Observers warned that the laws vague language could be abused to stifle free speech. Videos Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos. A regional boss in eastern Siberia has been suspended by the ruling United Russia party after he body-slammed a journalist from the state Rossia-24 television channel. The journalist was asking Sergei Zaitsev, head of the Shirinsky region of Russia's Republic of Khakasia, about allegedly slipshod housing provided to people left homeless by wildfires in 2015. The press service of United Russia, the Putin-era "party of power" that generally works with the Kremlin, said Monday that Zaitsev had been suspended as secretary of its regional branch and could face removal from his post. Party General Secretary Andrei Turchak was quoted as saying, "If you don't know how to deal with people and answer pointed questions, you have no place in government." On May 22, a Rossia-24 camera crew showed up at Zaitsev's office and began asking questions about the state of the federally funded housing. Three days later, the channel broadcast footage of Zaitsev trying to grab the microphone from journalist Ivan Litoman's hand before rising from his desk and angrily lifting, then slamming Litoman to the floor. Watch: Video of journalist being thrown to the ground The clip did not show what preceded the attack, and it was not immediately clear if Litoman suffered any injuries. The Investigative Committee said Monday that a criminal investigation into the incident had been opened on suspicion that Zaitsev obstructed "the lawful professional activities of journalists." If charged and convicted, he could face up to six years in prison. In April 2015, wildfires in Khakasia left 34 people dead and more than 5,000 more homeless. In the village of Shira alone, 500 homes were destroyed. With cameras rolling, President Vladimir Putin subsequently visited the scene and ordered that aid be delivered promptly and that homes be rebuilt. More than $23 million was allocated from the federal budget to provide relief. After complaints of shoddy construction and other problems, an audit revealed that much of the money had been stolen. Zaitsev had already been convicted of failing to remove illegal waste dumps near the village that contributed to the 2015 fire and of failing to create an early-warning system to notify locals of the danger. He was sentenced to 4 years in prison but granted a full amnesty under a general amnesty to mark the 70th anniversary of victory in World War II. His conviction was annulled and he was allowed to remain in his post. Rossia-24 journalist Litoman made headlines in April with a story about Nikita Yegorov-Kirillov, the organizer of a series of gay-friendly parties in Moscow who was attacked by unknown assailants. Many viewers found Litoman's piece, in which he described the parties as "orgies" and social-media posts from witnesses to the attacks were read in a nearly falsetto voice, offensive and homophobic. David Byrd contributed to this report The founder of the Smithsonian Institution's newest museum, which focuses on African-American history, has been selected to lead the institution's entire system of museums and parks. Tuesday, the Smithsonian Board of Regents appointed Lonnie Bunch as its 14th secretary, becoming the museum's first African-American leader in its 173-year history. The 66-year-old Bunch will guide the world's largest museum, education and research complex, overseeing a $1.5 billion annual budget that helps fund 19 museums, nine research centers and the National Zoo. Bunch told the Associated Press that he is humbled and excited at taking over as Secretary. It is humbling, exciting. It is something that had never crossed my mind to do," he said. " But it also makes me feel good because I get to give back to the institution I care the most about the Smithsonian. Board of Regents chairman David Rubenstein said Bunch's experience at three museums, reputation and fundraising skills separated him from other candidates. However, Bunch says he was still surprised to get the Secretarys job. I wasnt even sure, when they ask you to go for this job, that theyd hire someone like me, that theyd hire an insider, theyd hire a curator. Theyd hire a historian," he said. The appointment comes less than three years after the opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC). As its first director, Bunch oversaw an 11 year effort to collect more than 40,000 items before the museum opened on the National Mall in 2016. The museum immediately became one of Washington's most popular attractions, drawing more than four million people in its first two and one-half-years. The new Secretary says he does not want people to think of the Smithsonian as only looking at the past. He wants the public to see it as suited to serving a 21st-century audience. And so in a way, this is also a wonderful day for the Smithsonian to sort of say its a place that embraces all of what America is and is comfortable with diversity of leadership and vision. So for me, this is less about a triumph for me and more about the Smithsonian recognizing what it takes to lead in the 21st Century," he said. George Mason University history professor Spencer Crew will serve as the NMAAHC's interim director. Lonnie Bunch will assume his new duties on June 16. VOAs Salem Solomon contributed to this report. Col. Faadumo Ali spent her life trying to bring peace and security back to her home country of Somalia. The 33-year-old mother of 10 joined the military in 2007 and led a division of Danab, an elite, U.S.-trained commando force. She had taken part in many battles against the extremist group al-Shabab, including fights that liberated the capital, Mogadishu. But on May 22, while standing guard at a checkpoint in the capital, Ali was killed by a car bomb. Her husband, Cmdr. Bashar Sharif Abdullahi, also a member of Danab, died in the attack as well. Hassan Ali Mohamed, Somalias minister of defense, noted that Ali was a valuable bridge between the Somali National Army and the African Union Mission in Somalia because she spoke English. She was also the first female special staff member to former Somali President Sheik Sharif Sheik Ahmed. She developed the militarys attitude and was such a hero that we lost, Mohamed told VOAs Somali service. Role model Alis sister, Malyuun Mahmed, said she was a role model in and out of her home. She was raising her kids, providing for her father and mother, and she was an inspiration to all of us. We are so sorry that their kids lost their two parents on the same day, she said. Her children range in age from 17 to a 22-day-old newborn. Ali was married before and lost a previous husband to an al-Shabab attack two years ago. Although Mogadishu is under the control of the African Union and the Somali National Army, attacks by al-Shabab continue. This particular blast targeted officials and lawmakers on their way to the presidential palace. Nine people were killed, including former Somali Foreign Minister Hussein Elabe Fahiye. The defense minister said two operations were ongoing against al-Shabab, code-named Protection 1 and Protection 2. He added that the fight to destroy the extremist group was an entire government effort. Whenever we liberate a zone, we recruit and deploy police forces, rebuild houses, distribute food, and build the local administration, Mohamed said. Tributes to fallen Many Somali websites and popular social media pages featured tributes to the fallen soldiers, calling them heroes. She was a highly loved mother. ... Whenever she was in the operations, her mother and other kids used to care for her family. Her death touched us badly. Its a sad day for our family, her sister added. Remembrances also poured in for Abdullahi. He dedicated his time and efforts to the Somali army. Im so sorry and felt pain when I heard (about) the death of this couple, said Abdihakim Barre Ismail, brother of the deceased officer. Chanting anti-government slogans, workers lined up outside the upscale al-Waha shopping center in downtown Khartoum, demanding an end to the country's 30-year military rule. "Our martyrs lost their lives," they shouted, referring to the dozens of people killed since December in Sudan's revolution. "We can lose our jobs." Tuesday was the first day of a two-day nationwide strike called by opposition leaders demanding that Sudan's military junta transfer power to a civilian government. The junta took power in April following the ouster of longtime president Omar al-Bashir after months of street protests. Bashir had ruled for nearly 30 years and was accused of human rights abuses and corruption. An alliance of unions, professional organizations, and political parties called the strike. Talks between the alliance and the military council, which took power in an April coup, collapsed earlier this month after soldiers attacked peaceful demonstrators in the city, killing several and wounding hundreds. The talks had stalled over whether civilians or generals would have control of a sovereign council meant to run the country for the next three years before elections. With talks deadlocked, leaders of Sudan's protest movement said they are escalating their pressure on the military, starting with the strike. Outside al-Waha mall, Idris Ibrahim, a teller at the Bank of Khartoum, said the Sudanese people are growing impatient. "We want a civilian government," he said. "The military council has had the country for almost 50 days now. We've had negotiations, but they don't seem to want to give us our civilian government." Around the nation, workers in various sectors posted photos of themselves on social media holding signs supporting the strike, including oil workers, dentists, sugar processing employees, cement factory workers, and veterinarians. Numerous international flights to Sudan were also cancelled as aviation employees threatened to strike. The broad support for the protest was despite the rejection of the strike by of the opposition Umma Party, a member of the opposition alliance, which had raised fears of a split in the civilian movement. Back at al-Waha mall, Ibrahim said the upper management of his bank was totally against the strike. A few steps away, his colleague Susana Abdalla Hassan said her bosses' stance didn't matter to her. "I don't care," she said. "Even if they fire me, it's a small tax for the country. There are people who have lost their lives. The job is nothing." Inside the mall, many shops remained open, but employees supported the strike by refusing to do any work. At a shop of the MTN mobile phone company, staff politely turned away any potential customers away at the door, handing small pieces of paper explaining their support for the strike. At the Sena supermarket, employees lined shopping carts to block shoppers from entering. Throughout Khartoum, most businesses appeared shuttered, except for small stores selling basic necessities and petrol stations. On one run-down block, Siddig Ibrahim said he managed one of eight stores that normally sell clothes, watches, shoes, and other goods. All of them agreed to close. "We ask everybody who is not striking to join the strike. It's for the nation," he said. "Those who aren't striking don't represent the majority." On Ibrahim's block, only one shop - selling ties, suits, and dress shirts - remained open. The owner said he opened his store because he had not heard of the strike, but added he would close up soon because he feared crowds of striking workers that had gathered in the streets. There were no reports of violence from protesters by late Tuesday, but members of the military council earlier vowed to fire any striking government workers. Video circulated on social media Tuesday appeared to show uniformed security forces arresting staff of an electricity utility. Sudanese electricians had otherwise downed their tools, but said they would ensure power supply to necessary services such as hospitals. The Sudan Professionals Association, a leading member of the opposition alliance, also accused members of the military of entering the Central Bank and attempting to force employees to work. SPA spokesman Amjed Fareed condemned the alleged arrests, which he described as "illegitimate" and a "clear violation of political freedom of association." "The military council have to see the will of the Sudanese people, and accept it, and implement its previous commitment of handing over the power to a civilian government," he said. Fareed added if the military does not hand power to civilians after the strike ends Wednesday, the opposition alliance will call for further civil disobedience. Sudan's alliance of opposition and protest groups said Monday that it would push ahead with a two-day general strike starting Tuesday after talks with the ruling military council collapsed. Wagdy Saleh, speaking for the Declaration of Freedom and Change Forces (DFCF) alliance, said the Transitional Military Council (TMC) demanded a two-thirds majority on a sovereign council that would lead the country after the ouster of longtime President Omar al-Bashir last month. The deputy head of the TMC, Lt. Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, said earlier Monday that the council was ready to hand over power swiftly but that the opposition was not serious about sharing power. "These people do not want to partner with us," said Dagalo, who is known as Hemedti and heads the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, adding they wanted to confine the military to a ceremonial role. "By God, their slogans cheated us. I swear we were honest with them 100%," Hemedti said at a dinner with police and diplomats. "That's why, by God almighty, we will not hand this country except to safe hands." The Taliban and Russia have jointly called for the withdrawal of U.S.-led coalition troops from Afghanistan, with a top leader of the Islamist insurgent group denouncing the foreign presence in the country as a major obstacle to Afghan peace. Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the political deputy of the Taliban, made the remarks in Moscow to a gathering of Russian and Afghan government personnel, as well as representatives from prominent political groups from the war-torn country. Russia organized the meeting to mark the 100th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Afghanistan. "The Islamic Emirate [Taliban] is truly committed to peace but the first step is to remove obstacles in the way of peace, meaning the occupation of Afghanistan must come to an end," Baradar said in rare public appearance and speech. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in his welcome address to the group urged that foreign forces leave Afghanistan. He underscored the importance of bilateral relations, saying Russia is ready to offer more help to Afghanistan to fight terrorist groups led by Islamic State and drug-trafficking networks. "This conflict in Afghanistan has no military solution and the only way to settle this issue is to rely on diplomacy and politics. We believe all foreign military [forces] should be withdrawn from the country and the society of Afghanistan should unite in finding a solution," the Russian foreign minister stressed. "We believe that Afghanistan should stay united where all the ethnic groups can live peacefully. We hope that peace will settle in Afghanistan as soon as possible," Lavrov added, saying that accelerated Afghan peace-building efforts recently initiated by Moscow are furthering the peace process. Top Afghan candidates challenging President Ashraf Ghani in the upcoming presidential elections, former president, Hamid Karzai, and Afghan diplomats in Moscow, as well as the head of the official Afghan High Peace Council (HPC) tasked with promoting peace, were in attendance at Tuesday's meeting and delivered their own speeches. In his address, the HPC chief, Karim Khalili, emphasized the need for agreeing to "a dignified and just mechanism" for ending years of bloodshed in Afghanistan. Mullah Baradar Mullah Baradar, who is heading a 14-member Taliban delegation, was the center of attention during Tuesday's meeting in Moscow. He is known as a co-founder of the Islamist Taliban and is believed to have played a central role in organizing insurgent activities after the U.S.-led military invasion of Afghanistan 17 years ago. Baradar was traveling through Pakistan in 2010 when American security operatives, together with local counterparts, arrested him in Karachi. The insurgent commander was then placed in Pakistani custody until late last year. At that point, Washington requested that Islamabad free Baradar to push a nascent process of negotiations that U.S. diplomats initiated with the Taliban late last fall to seek an end to the Afghan war. Intra-Afghan conference Taliban and Afghan delegates also are scheduled to hold an intra-Afghan meeting on Wednesday to discuss ways to promote peace in their country. The bilateral talks would mark the second time Taliban officials have met with Afghan opposition politicians in Russia. The first such interaction took place in February, but no government representatives were present because of objections by the insurgents. The Taliban clarified in a statement issued late Tuesday that no Kabul government representatives will participate in the intra-Afghan conference, and insurgent delegates will interact only with Afghan politicians as well as civil society representatives. The Taliban refuse to engage in any peace talks with anyone associated with the U.S.-backed Kabul government, dismissing them as "stooges" installed by foreign "occupation" forces. "The delegation of Islamic Emirate [Taliban] will also hold closed-door meetings with senior officials of the Russian Federation," said Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. U.S.-Taliban talks The meetings in Moscow come as months of direct peace negotiations between the United States and the Taliban appear to have slowed down, if not deadlocked, over the insurgents' refusal to cease hostilities until all U.S.-led international forces withdraw from Afghanistan. Washington has linked its troop withdrawal move to counterterrorism assurances by the Taliban, a comprehensive cease-fire and the insurgent group's participation in a peace dialogue with the Afghan government and other groups to end years of hostilities. The U.S.-led military invasion ousted the Taliban from power in late 2001 for sheltering al-Qaida leaders blamed for the 9/11 terrorist attacks on American cites. The Islamist group rejected the charges and has since retaken control or influences nearly half of the country, inflicting heavy casualties on American-backed and trained embattled Afghan security forces. Russian military police last week reportedly carried out a raid against Iranian-backed militiamen stationed at Syria's Aleppo international airport, local media reported. In the aftermath, several Iranian militia leaders were arrested in what was seen as the latest episode of tensions between Iranian and Russian forces in Syria. Since the beginning of Syria's civil war in 2011, Russia and Iran have built a strong military presence in the country in support of forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Iran has since deployed thousands of its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and allied Shiite militias to Syria, while Russia officially entered the Syrian conflict in September 2015 to help Assad's regime. But as the war is waning, with Syrian regime forces reclaiming most of the territory once controlled by rebel forces, Russia and Iran seem to be vying for influence in the war-torn country. 'Slice of the pie' Analysts say the protracted war in Syria has created a slight fissure between the two allies. "There are definite tensions that exist between Russia and Iran within Syria," said Phillip Smyth, a researcher at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy who closely follows Iranian-backed militias in Syria. "You see things like this [raid in Aleppo] that occur in flashpoint zones because there's criminal activity going on. Each country's proxy wants a cut of that," he told VOA. Similar incidents have been taking place throughout the country in the past two years. Recently, two divisions of the Syrian military were engaged in deadly clashes in different parts of the country, local reports said. This power struggle is the result of differences among Syrian military leaders who are either loyal to Russia or Iran, observers believe. "I do believe that it comes down to who controls what, what slice of the pie they all have. But I don't necessarily believe that this is going to lead to some major conflagration between Iranian and Russian forces there," analyst Smyth said. Tactical differences The strategic partnership between Russia and Iran in Syria goes beyond such disagreements, especially since Russia is still dependent on Iranian forces to hold territory and to provide manpower for Syrian regime troops, some experts say. "I never believe that Russia would separate from Iran," said Anna Borshchevskaya, a research fellow at the European Foundation for Democracy who focuses on Russia's policy in the Middle East. "The disagreements they're having is that they're trying to carve out spheres of influence in Syria, which is something that Russia understands very well," she told VOA in a phone interview. "Their relationship is a complex one, for sure. But what holds them together is their anti-Americanism and a desire to reduce American influence in the region." Borshchevskaya added that "on the tactical level, [Russia and Iran] are going to have differences sometimes. But they agree on the big picture." The U.S. has been involved in the war against Islamic State militants since 2014, when the terror group announced its so-called caliphate in Syria and Iraq. U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), who declared victory over IS in March, now control more than a third of Syria's territory. The United States has about 2,000 troops in areas under the control of the Kurdish-led SDF. But the U.S. administration has said it will keep only about 400 soldiers in those areas after the war against IS is over. Russia and Iran have constantly opposed the U.S. military presence in Syria. Economic competition Some analysts believe that, unlike when they became involved in Syria's war, Russian and Iranian forces now control larger territories and both countries are searching for economic opportunities in the country. "Now there are more points of friction between the two countries than ever before," said Jowan Hemo, a Syrian economist who follows the economic patterns of the war. "So naturally, you would see them compete to win contracts with the Syrian regime, including the energy and power sectors and other types of investments," he told VOA. In 2018, Russia was awarded exclusive rights to produce Syria's oil and gas. Russia has also signed a contract to use the Syrian port of Tartus for 49 years, while Iran won a bid to partially use the port of Latakia. Both countries want to economically monopolize Syria for the long term, because they each have given sizable loans to the Syrian regime throughout the war, economist Hemo said. "I believe this type of competition will continue in Syria, but eventually Russia's economic dominance will prevail," he added. The Ugandan government and the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees are calling on the donor community to extend $927 million to support the over 1.2 million refugees living in Uganda. But the appeal is complicated by the alleged misuse of previous contributions. Located next to several countries in conflict, Uganda has become host to huge refugee populations. Currently there are 792,000 South Sudanese, 417,000 Congolese and more than 35,000 Burundians, among others. The $927 million sought would pay for water, sanitation, food, health care, shelter and other basic needs for the refugees. Jens Hessemann is the senior field coordinator for the U.N. refugee agency in Uganda. Uganda is Africas largest refugee situation of over 1.2 million refugees and the number is growing with continued influxes to the country. And over 100 partners, U.N. and NGO partners have been supporting the Uganda government in managing this humanitarian situation and deliver life saving services. That needs to continue," said Hessemann. However, the appeal is weighed down by what donors are calling unsatisfactory investigations over abuse of funds. In early 2018, four Ugandan officials under the Office of the Prime Minister were asked to leave their positions, pending investigations into alleged abuse of funds, fraud and exaggeration of refugee numbers. Ugandas junior minister for refugees, Musa Ecweru, said the probes are still ongoing. We are saying, the investigation is systematic, is thorough. Those gentlemen and ladies will not step in these offices, until, they are either cleared or brought to book if they are found to have committed a crime." He also accuses Uganda's development partners of misusing donor funds. The partners have also had a challenge. You over cost your administrative response. The money that the international community gives, three quarters of the money goes to your welfare. You drive big cars, you sleep in big hotels, he said. Hessemann declined to comment on Ecweru's remarks. He said the UNHCR has been working with the government to verify actual refugee numbers using a biometric system that the agency named Progress. He said the system will reduce fraud and corruption. Priority of all the partners is accountability. We are accountable to refugees. To deliver services, meeting their rights and their needs. But we are obviously also accountable to donors to ensure that funding is value for money and is used in the right way, said Hessemann. The appeal follows critical remarks from German Ambassador Albert Conze, who said Germany has re-established financial dealings with UNHCR but will not dispense half of the $52 million it had pledged until the Ugandan government limits corruption. I am a bit surprised that this takes 15 months. Not a very convincing response. We are getting the response that this is now with this or that agency and that they should come up with something, but nothing has come up so far. You can do what you want with your own money, but when you get money from friends, I think your accountability is increased, he said. UNHCR states that in 2018, only 57 percent of the Uganda refugee response plan was funded, leaving many unmet needs. The contributions in 2019 have been particularly slow in coming, with less than 20 percent of the needed funds received so far. On June 6th, heads of state including President Trump will gather at a beach in northern France to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the D-Day invasion. In this military operation, thousands of American and other allied soldiers lost their lives in the first phase of a final push to liberate France and the continent from Nazi occupation. The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial represents a unique place to pay tribute to the fallen warriors. Nicolas Pinault report. President Donald Trump's son-in-law is in Morocco Tuesday as part of a three-day trip to garner support for his Middle East peace plan. White House officials said Tuesday Jared Kushner would also visit Jordan and Israel, along with U.S. representative for Iran Brian Hook and U.S. international negotiator Jason Greenblatt. The trip comes as the U.S. prepares to unveil the economic part of the plan at a conference in Bahrain in late June. The Palestinians have already rejected the peace portion of the plan and have called on Arab nations to boycott the conference, citing Trump's previous recognition of Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have already committed to participate. Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh stressed at a cabinet meeting earlier this month the need for a political agreement with Israel that resolves longstanding issues such Israel's occupation of the West Bank. "Our struggle is over land, to end the occupation, establish our state with Jerusalem as its capital, and return the refugees," he said. Shtayyeh said the Palestinian financial crisis is the result of a "financial war" against them and that they would not relinquish their rights for money. A senior White House official said on May 19 the plan calls for substantial investments in the Gaza economy but the investments would require a "stable" cease-fire deal to remain in effect. "There's a tremendous amount of opportunity [and] the world is willing to step up and work on this," the official said. "But that only happens if we can resolve some of the political issues. The two things go hand in hand." The conference in Bahrain is scheduled to be held on June 25 and 26. Thiruvananthapuram : The Union Home Ministry has given nod to the National Investigation Agency ( NIA) to join the probe into thesuicide bomb attacks on churches and hotels in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, As per the reports, the team of NIA sleuths headed by director YC Modi, will fly to Sri Lanka to probe the link between Islamic State's Kerala module and Lankan terrorist or their handlers, The Investigation Agency had last month arrested a suspect from Kerala, identified as Riyas A, who allegedly confessed that he was following the Lankan bombers alleged ringleader and planned to carry out a suicide attack in Kerala. Officials in Zimbabwe say the bodies of eight illegal miners have been retrieved from an abandoned gold mine about 50 kilometers north of Harare. The news Monday was a reminder of the risk faced by desperate illegal miners trying to make a living in the economically troubled southern African country. Matopo is a gold rich area in southern Zimbabwe, and some men there enter such mines, despite the danger involved. These men are illegal miners, using a metal detector to search for gold at the Nugget Mine, about an hour's drive from Bulawayo, Zimbabwes second largest city. Piniel Ndingi-Nyoni is one of those who entered the mine, despite the recent collapse of a mine shaft that killed four men. Ndingi-Nyoni says he has no choice but to take the risk. Problems at home force me to do this. We need school fees, you need food, there are medical bills to take care of, so all that force you to stay in the bush. It is not funny at all. In this cold weather, we sleep in shacks while the wife is at home. At times, we can go for three months without getting anything, Ndingi-Nyoni said. A few minutes later, the illegal miners disappeared into the bush at the sight of officials in the area. Once the coast is clear, they re-appear. No man gives up, is the motto 42-year-old Edward Madyauta lives by. He says he has gold rush dreams. But he says on several occasions, he has gone for months on a wild-goose chase. What about fears of being trapped under, as what happened a few meters away? I do not fear death, because (I) usually get gold before depth gets past my height. So that cant collapse on me. But those who go under have a higher risk of the shaft collapsing on them, Madyauta explained. On Monday, searchers found the bodies of eight men working an abandoned mine in Mazowe, north of the capital. It was the third fatal incident involving illegal miners this year. Polite Kambamura, deputy minister of mines, says the government is worried about the trend and has embarked on a campaign to urge people to stay away from abandoned mines. We are going to call on owners of such mines to show cause why they are not mining. We are risking the lives of many people. If a mine stays for long without any activity, the ground will weaken up, Kambamura said. Some of those miners are going underground to mine on pillars. The moment they mine on pillars, then there is no more support and the ground will fall off. But with Zimbabwes economy in meltdown and no recovery in sight, one wonders if any of the miners, like Nyoni and Madyauta in Matopo, will listen to the advice. San Francisco, California recently became the first U.S. city to ban police and other city agencies from using facial recognition technology. The city is not alone. More people are growing wary of the powerful tech, at the same time that others are embracing it. Deana Mitchell reports. Chennai : Tamil superstar Rajinikanth Tuesday described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "charismatic" leader like Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi and attributed the BJP's massive win in the Lok Sabha polls to his leadership. He also said that Congress President Rahul Gandhi need not resign following the party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections, saying he was a youngster and perhaps had not got the cooperation of senior party leaders. The veteran star likened Modi to tall leaders of India, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, A B Vajpayee, K Kamaraj, C N Annadurai, M G Ramachandran, M Karunanidhi and J Jayalalithaa. "This Lok Sabha poll victory is a win for the individual leadership called Modi. It is the victory for a charismatic leader," he told reporters here. "In Indian politics, whether at the national level or state, any party will reap wins only on the (popularity) of a leader. He is a charismatic leader," he said about Modi. He noted that the country in the past had charismatic leaders like Nehru, Indira, Rajiv and Vajpayee. After them (the country) has got Modi, a charismatic leader. If you see in Tamil Nadu, there were charismatic leaders like Kamaraj, Anna, Kalaignar, MGR, Jayalalithaa. Along those lines, this victory is achieved for the leadership of Modi," he said. PTI All types of ants live in colonies that consist of hundreds or even millions of individual ants, with one or more egg-laying queens. For permanent control, you need to get rid of the whole colony, including the queens and grubs that are growing into the next generation of worker ants. Slow-acting pesticides that ants don't recognize as poison can do this. When the pesticide is mixed into sweet or fatty bait they like, foraging ants carry bits back to the nest and share it with their mates. It might take two weeks or longer, but eventually this can do in the whole colony. You can buy slow-acting pesticide for ants in bait stations enclosed in plastic, a handy, mess-free solution. But gel formulations, which come in squeezable or syringe-type tubes, are even more effective, according to Michael Potter, a University of Kentucky entomologist who is often called in to advise pest-control companies. "Oftentimes the squeezable gel formulations are more versatile in that you can put out lots of small dabs of bait wherever ants are trailing (along cracks, edges, both horizontal and vertical surfaces, etc.)," Potter wrote in an email. The 11 airmen survived because of the ingenuity and bravery of the areas indigenous people, known as Dayaks, who sheltered the Americans soon after they crashed into Borneo, and later hid them from Japanese troops till their final rescue by an Australian-British-New Zealand special forces team in June 1945. This amazing rescue was hardly foreordained. As Heimann relays in her book, Japanese forces which had occupied Borneo in 1941 seeking its rich oil deposits soon came to Lung Barang, demanding the Dayaks assistance in capturing the airmen. The Dayaks instead outsmarted the Japanese, leading them on fruitless searches through the impenetrable Borneo rainforest, always careful to stay far from where they had sheltered their American charges. When Japanese pressure intensified, tribespeople used even more elaborate ruses to divide and confuse their pursuers. Why did the Dayaks at great personal risk decide to help the Americans? Why would an indigenous people still largely isolated from the war decide to choose sides and invite the almost certain Japanese reprisals? ITHACA With summer right around the corner, the University of Nebraska Extension is getting ready to host a batch of summer learning opportunities in the county. 4-H Extension Assistant Melisa Konecky said the Eastern Nebraska Research and Education Center near Ithaca will be working with partners to teach a variety of topics this summer. Overall we want to give the kid the opportunities to look into many different things, Konecky said. Some workshops are favorites that were brought back by their popularity last year, while others are new. We have a lot of returns from last year, Konecky said. One of the first returns is the Outdoor Recreation Day May 31. On this day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., kids from ages eight to 18 will be able to enjoy a fun day outside at Lake Wanahoo. Activities like fishing, boating and kayaking will be available for all attendees. One of the new activities will be June 7, when from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., youth from grades seven through 12 can participate in the Saunders County Ag Tour, Participants will take a look at what agriculture looks like in Saunders County and the different job opportunities that are available. Top 10 AI Stocks Investing to Profit from the Machine Intelligence Mega-trend (6-10) This is my latest analysis in my machine intelligence investing mega-trend series that warns to prepare for EVERYTHING to change EXPONENTIALLY when average machine intelligence surpasses average human intelligence following which it will be off to the races. When the pace of change will leave everything that has happened before far behind. And in my opinion that key date will occur sometime during 2022, i.e. in less than 4 years time! Which means if you have not already got your act together by getting onboard this investing gravy train then you really need to take action or kick yourself many years down the road, when you will be asking yourself why I did not invest in those AI stocks before they went stratospheric! If you've not already done so then watch my following video from November 2016 which illustrates why everything will start to change exponentially by 2022. Machine Intelligence has become a broad church that has fragmented or branched off into a myriad of sectors and the number keeps expanding every year. Many years ago I broke the machine intelligence mega-trend down into 9 key sectors that I have now further fragmented into 10 by basically adding Cyber Security as the following list illustrates, the 10 key machine mega-trend sectors to invest in. However the grand daddy of ALL of the 10 sectors is Artificial Intelligence, which is the PRIMARY FOCUS for investing. All of the other sectors are DERIVATIVES of AI. Which means one could ignore most if not all of the other sectors and just focus on investing in Artificial Intelligence, for most of the AI stocks by nature encompass aspects of the derivative sectors. AI STOCKS So what do I mean by investing in Artificial Intelligence stocks. Basically this is investing in companies that are at the very forefront of developing self learning technology as the back bone of their business rather than for instance a company that is just focused on developing a self driving car, usually using AI already developed by another corporation. So when investing in Artificial Intelligence I am basically focus on 10 Tech giants that have both existing DEMAND for raw processing power of self learning algorithms and the resources to to commit to the development of artificial intelligence i.e. billions of dollars sat in the bank. So you should not be surprised if you recognise most of the stocks on my Top 10 AI investing list. How to Invest in Stocks First a brief primer of how to actually invest in stocks and no I don't mean the dynamics of placing orders with brokers. 1. ACCUMULATE - The objective is to accumulate positions over time so as to avoid major peaks and troughs. Timing doesn't make much difference because you don't have the benefit of hindsight when investing i.e. it does not really matter if the stock market is soaring or plunging. So set yourself a monetary target of how much of each stock your aiming to accumulate over a period of time. 2. Target Stocks List - You are going to have a list of target stocks that you are always ready to accumulate into whenever the opportunity arises. So that whenever the stock market does take a tumble, your not sat twiddling your thumbs trying to work out which stocks to buy because you already have a list of stocks PLUS a target amount to buy based on your AI investing game plan. 3. Best Stock Picking Indicator - Most analysts obsesses over stock fundamentals. However whilst significant, in my opinion the most important indicator of how the stock is doing is its performance relative to the general stock market indices, as you want to be wary of buying a stock when it is UNDER PERFORMING against the general stock market indices, which is a warning sign that something could be going wrong that may take a while to show up in corporate data. 4. Remember you are INVESTING NOT TRADING. So you are going to be committing funds for at least 5 years and likely more than 10. My strategy is basically to invest and forget. I don't do use online portfolio updaters, which can result in people wasting time checking the value of their portfolios several times a day! Instead I use manually updated spreadsheets that at best I update quarterly, and usually a less frequently. Because I am INVESTING NOT TRADING. For instance I have held some stocks for DECADES! So basically don't think too much about what your invested in after you have invested. i.e. avoid regular monitoring otherwise you may end up making the mistake of bailing out that you will likely regret selling later. 5. Market Timing - I know its hard to tell you not to time your entries, especially after the market has had a good run and ones instincts are wait for a correction, but then you'll end up waiting that bit longer and the stock will start to rise again, and so you'll want to wait for it get back to where it was when you were going to buy but you didn't because you thought it would go lower, instead it goes even higher. Now you think to yourself DAMN I've missed the move, and then wait for it to fall again. All the while the stock keeps trending higher as one would expect a good stock to do! Firstly, this there is NO such thing as a missed market move! Because everything is always clear in HINDSIGHT! ACCUMULATE! Don't worry about what the price is doing at any particular point in time, it's just noise, instead ACCUMULATE! Keep your eye on the big picture. For instance I have been accumulating some XXX every year for the past 10 years! Regardless of where the price its trading i.e. every year I put money into my ISA's and Pension Fund and then INVEST that into the list of target stocks. Trying to time for a few extra percent is just a waste of time. YES, if the market takes a PLUNGE and presents one with an buying opportunity then TAKE IT, but don't try to time entries for individual stocks, because then you will likely fall foul of the "missed market move" syndrome and become stuck. 6. Dividend vs Buy back - Most will be aware that even some of the biggest tech giants don't tend to pay dividends. Instead what investors usually get are share buy backs that result in capital appreciation rather than income. So annual dividend payments should be seen as a bonus as the primary return is capital appreciation, in significant part courtesy of share buy backs. That also tends to act as support in times of falling stock prices, i.e. companies step in to buy their own shares because they deem them to be cheap. In terms of total returns, investors tend to do best in companies that regularly buy back their stock. 7. LIMIT RISK - Investing in the stock market is high risk! So investors should aim to minimise that risk, and one such way of doing so is to NOT to invest in SMALL and Medium cap stocks, where you will basically be gambling with your money. So if you have come here for a list of small cap get rich quick stocks then you will be disappointed. My investing objective is to maximise long-term returns whilst minimising risk to capital, which is why I don't have sleepless nights worrying about how my stocks portfolio is doing following the latest flash crash because I understand that the stocks I have selected have a very high probability of delivering in the LONG-RUN. My Top 10 AI stocks are ranked in terms of risk vs reward and volatility. So I consider my Top 5 stocks as primary, then the next 3 as secondary and the last 2 as far more risky tertiary stocks. And remember that when investing in the stock market that your capital is at risk. There are NO SURE BETS! The stocks analysis will follow in two parts (newsletters) stocks 6 to 10 first then stocks 1 to 5. Note this analysis was first been made available to Patrons who support my work: https://www.patreon.com/posts/top-10-ai-stocks-25779914 So for immediate First Access to ALL of my analysis and trend forecasts then do consider becoming a Patron by supporting my work for just $3 per month. https://www.patreon.com/Nadeem_Walayat. SECONDARY STOCKS 6. FACEBOOK - FB You don't need me to remind you of who Facebook are and what they do. Personally, I have been skeptical of investing in Facebook right from its IPO in 2012, warning at the time that this stocks not a winner (18 May 2012 - FaceBook $100 Billion Internet IPO Emperor Has No Clothes, Investors Could Lose 85%) and for its first few years of trading I was proven right as the stock price collapsed to less than half of its IPO high, falling from $45 to $18. However, after those first 2 years, the Facebook stock built a base and started a relentless climb higher to stand today as a tech giant heavily reliant on the development of Artificial Intelligence for it's success as Facebook has effectively embraced the advertising model for its primary business, in the management of its social media architecture, that and its acquisitions of a string of companies such as Whatsapp, Oculus, Instagram etc. having gone on $20 billion+ spending spree. Clearly today's, facebook is a lot different to the Facebook of 2012, so definitely makes it into my Top 10 AI investing list. Facebook Financials Current Price $166.8 Market Cap $475bn Enterprise Value $432bn Total Cash 41.1bn Net Income $22.1bn P/E Ratio 22 Forward P/E 18.8 Dividend Yield Sales Growth 37.4% Price to Sales Ratio (lower better) 6.86 Price to Cash Flow Ratio (lower better) 13.08 PEG Ratio (lower better) 1.3 Debt to Equity (lower better) 0.59 Stock Price 3 Year Change 44% Ratio to S&P 114% Nothing surprises me more about Facebook then the fact that it has gone from a loss maker to making profit of $22bn (2018). So I admit I was wrong to write off Facebook 7 years ago when I thought it would be lucky to make a profit of $1 billion per year, because where the internet is concerned everything is free so when speculation was rife that Facebook would seek to monetize itself through membership fees, I KNEW that would NOT WORK, and luckily for Facebook they never went down that route, instead have embraced advertising and selling of user data. Facebook profits and revenues are growing FAST which on P/E of 22 has Facebook fairly priced. Facebook's financials today are strong, that and its huge cash balance of $41.1bn definitely supports its continuing exponential expansion as it gobbles up other Tech stocks. Trend - Facebook IPO'd in 2012 at just over $45, fell to $18 during its first year where it remained for another year, following which the stock began a relentless climb to its recent peak of $220. A huge ten fold increase for all who bought the stock during its first 2 years. However, as the 3 year chart shows FACEBOOK IS VOLATILE, having suffered a nose bleed dive from its 2018 peak of $220 to $120! You can't get much more volatile than that which is why I don't consider Facebook a primary AI investment, it's just too volatile for that status! Long-term Investing - Despite its recent collapse Facebook is still up 44% and out performs the S&P.The stock is consistently experiencing strong earnings growth as it is leveraged itself to the machine intelligence mega-trend, therefore it is only a question of time before Facebook surpasses its $220 high and carries on into the stratosphere. Conclusion - Facebook is definitely a AI machine mega-trend investing stock to hold as long as you are prepared to ride its roller coaster which on the plus side can from time to time generate buying opportunities as we witnessed during the past few months. 7. IBM IBM or Big Blue as it used to be called is unfortunately prone to making huge blunders from time to time such as failing to realise that the real enemy was Microsoft not Apple! I bet few remember OS2 created for IBM by Microsoft well all that money paid to Microsoft to develop OS2 directly resulted in the far superior Windows operating system. And so Microsoft went on to BECOME IBM. Another blunder was failing to compete for the desktop PC's market because IBM was a mini computer company. Unfortunately the desktops put IBM's minis out of business and so IBM became history as since the early 1980's has consistently been a tech under performer. However, now AI may offer IBM the possibility of riding the machine intelligence mega-trend back to computing dominance as I am sure you will all have heard of Watson, IBM's Deep Mind AI project that has featured in countless TV appearances. The thing is IBM is good in terms of big hardware projects and not so good in terms of software projects. Thus IBM could well be positioned to leap frog the rest via it's machine learning development projects such as IBM's cloud based Quantum Computing services basically making the development of smart phones and other smart devices obsolete as the processing power would be in the cloud rather than on the device. So I am basically including IBM in my Top 10 AI stocks not because of its previous track record in delivering stock price gains but rather it has the potential to WIN the AI race via Quantum Computing. So bare that in mind when looking at it's past performance. IBM Financials Current Price $141 Market Cap $125.6bn Enterprise Value $159.6bn Total Cash $12bn Net Income $8.72bn P/E Ratio 14.84 Forward P/E 10 Dividend Yield 4.45% Sales Growth 0.6% Price to Sales Ratio (lower better) 1.31 Price to Cash Flow Ratio (lower better) 6.83 PEG Ratio (lower better) 10.5 Debt to Equity (lower better) 272.8 Stock Price 3 Year Change 6% Ratio to S&P 15% IBM Saddled with debt, virtually no sales growth, a crazily high PEG of over 10! On the plus side investors get a good reliable dividend yield. So basically it's current performance is not particularly bullish for the stocks prospects. Trend - Again IBM's past performance has been abysmal, showing a gain of just 6% over the past 3 years! About 1/6th that of the S&P. And even what little growth there is has been is at great volatility that has seen the stock price fall from $168 to $100 before recovering to stand at $141. Furthermore the stock price trend is not particularly inline with the S&P. So IBM in technical chart terms does not look particularly appealing. Long-term Investing - IBM's basically gone nowhere for the past 7 years! Even Warren Buffett gave up on his stake in 2018. So in terms of past performance IBM has failed to deliver. However that's ignoring the 4.45% dividend yield. So one should view IBM in terms of paying a decent dividend rather than on expectations for regular capital appreciation. It's just that it's got the potential to beat the rest. Otherwise you earn a small dividend. Conclusion - In my opinion IBM is a low risk gamble. Your basically gambling that their Quantum Computing tech pays off. Otherwise you get to earn a dividend and maybe some capital growth. Obviously if you were only to buy ONE AI stock then IBM would NOT be that stock, but it is fine as part as a portfolio of stocks. 8. SAMSUNG - BC94.L Here's one you were probably not expecting to make it into my AI list. However if I am including APPLE then I should definitely include the South Korean electronics giant Samsung that like Google, Amazon, Apple and the rest has embraced the quest to develop AI to implement across it's internet connected devices foremost of which are its pocket super computers such as the Galaxy range of smart phones. The current incarnation of Samsung's quest for AI is its Bixby intelligence assistant that Samsung is seeking to imbed in all of its products from TV's to fridges, ultimately an HAL 9000 in every home! Samsung Financials Current Price $979 Market Cap $258bn Enterprise Value $253bn Total Cash $32bn Net Income $40.5bn P/E Ratio 6.3 Forward P/E 6.2 Dividend Yield 3.17% Sales Growth -5% Price to Sales Ratio (lower better) 3.42 Price to Cash Flow Ratio (lower better) PEG Ratio (lower better) 0.86 Debt to Equity (lower better) 5.92 Stock Price 3 Year Change 69% Ratio to S&P 181% Samsung's overall financials look good with $32bn in cash and strong annual net income of $40.5bn, though sales are falling which is reflected in the stocks low P/E 6.3, which means Samsung is going through a rough patch. Then there's a healthy yield of 3.17%. Trend - Samsung has been in a corrective bear market for the past 18 months since its peak in October 2017, falling from a peak of $1267. Nevertheless the stock is still up 70% for the past 3 years so still beats the S&P. Volatility is lower than most other AI stocks so gives ample time for investors to react to accumulate or distribute into. As a Korean stock it's obviously not going to track the S&P trend. Though importantly it does beat the S&P in dollar terms by a healthy 80% margin. Long-term Investing - I akin Samsung to being a sleeping giant. At a P/E of 6.3 its AI potential is definitely not being priced in by the market. So whilst it may remain a sleeping giant, nevertheless it does pay a dividend in compensation and it does out perform the S&P over the long-run. Conclusion - In amidst the volatiles are the calmer stocks such as Samsung, yes it may remain calm for many years but that's not so bad when one considers the volatility of the likes of Facebook. That and it's off the radar of most investors. So it may turn out to be one of those stocks that people wake up to in 10 years time and wish they had invested in it when it was trading at just 6X earnings when most would not touch it given its annual falling sales. And especially when one compares it to its smart phone competitor Apple which is trading at 15X earnings. TERTIARY STOCKS 9. NVIDIA - NVDA If your a gamer then you will have grown up with Nvidia graphics cards or GPU's. Whilst many will fail to make the connection between AI and a GPU chip maker, but NVidia has already gone well beyond its gaming origins for instance many emerging sectors require FAST GPU's such as self driving cars. NVIDIA basically got lucky, it's GPU's are well suited towards machine learning applications and so the company has been fast morphing towards becoming a retail applications AI company giving AI hardware to retail desktop users to plug into its GPU's as well as off the shelf solutions for small to medium sized companies. Already NVIDIA is touting Jetson an AI bolt on card for its GPU's for just $99! Of course it's mostly a gimmick along the lines of those programming cartridges for the Atari games console 40 years ago that never really delivered what they were promising. Still a 472GFLOP card is a start, a precursor of what's to come and even that not being the first to do so, for the AI Tech front runner Google already announced it's AI kit priced at $150. Straightforward AI boards that plug into GPU's (graphics card) and off you go, your desktop computer is optimised for deep learning neural network applications! Though not at $99, maybe wait for AI cards that deliver hundreds of teraflops of processing power than NVIDIA Jetson's 472 gigaflops. This illustrates that NVIDIA is targeting it's AI products towards ordinary home computer users and small and medium sized companies application of AI, all without having to study a computer sciences degree for 5 years. Off the shelf easy to apply AI. Much as the myriad of desktop applications we have grown accustomed to such as spreadsheets and graphics software over the past few decades, so we will get used to using AI development environments courtesy of the likes of NVIDIA. NVIDIA Financials Current Price $180 Market Cap $108.8bn Enterprise Value $103.4bn Total Cash $7.4bn Net Income $4.14bn P/E Ratio 27.1 Forward P/E 25 Dividend Yield 0.36% Sales Growth 20.6% Price to Sales Ratio (lower better) 8.54 Price to Cash Flow Ratio (lower better) 26.74 PEG Ratio (lower better) 3.92 Debt to Equity (lower better) 21.3 Stock Price 3 Year Change 500% Ratio to S&P 1300% NVIDIA is clearly priced for fast growth, a high volatility AI play that has enjoyed huge growth over the past couple of years. Though sales at 20.6% could be stronger. Trend - Looking at the stock price, the word bubble comes to mind! NVIDIA soared from about $30 to $290 in just 2 years! Long-term Investing - Given the amount of volatility, NVIDIA is not really a long-term stock, not yet anyway, it needs to settle down, but for now it's basically a trading stock until it matures in its transition from a medium cap to a big cap stock. So NVIDIA is for those who are willing to entertain higher risk with greater potential. Conclusion - Nvidia will definitely prosper as one of the drivers of the machine intelligence mega-trend. But I am reluctant to buy it given how volatile the stock price is i.e. it could easily halve in price as well as double over the coming year. Then there are the new entrants to the AI processor market who have taken note of Nvidia's success and so joining the market, most notable of which is INTEL. So it looks like Nvidia investors are in for an even bumpier ride. So perhaps a case of wait and see rather than to rush to accumulate this stock right now. 10. BAIDU - BIDU Putting the war with China mega-trend on pause for the moment and considering China's Google. We all know that China developed at hyper speed courtesy of stolen western tech given China's army of hackers and stealers of corporate intellectual property. And well, so chinese companies such as Baidu (China's Facebook) get to develop without having to invest anywhere near as much in R&D as the likes of Google are doing. Baidu is definitely a significant competitor to Google in a whole spectrum of AI related sectors from search right down to self drive cars. In fact every time Google announces a new project, a couple of months later Baidu pops up with something similar. So why shouldn't we attempt to profit from it as well? Even if investing in Chinese stocks is higher risk given that China is a totalitarian state with far less transparency of what is actually going on under the corporate hood. Baidu Financials Current Price $164.8 Market Cap $58bn Enterprise Value $57bn Total Cash ? Net Income $4.15bn P/E Ratio 13.9 Forward P/E 13.9 Dividend Yield Sales Growth 23.2% Price to Sales Ratio (lower better) 3.61 Price to Cash Flow Ratio (lower better) 10.26 PEG Ratio (lower better) 47.6 Debt to Equity (lower better) 36.93 Stock Price 3 Year Change -13% Ratio to S&P -34% Baidu is quite indebted with apparently slow earnings growth. Though sales growth is strong. Trend - The Baidu stock prices poor performance reflects the Chinese stocks bear market. The stock stands up just 18% in 3 year, under performing the S&P by 50%. Though it should be noted 9 months ago the stock was up 50% since which time it has been in a severe bear market. Given the drop from 280 to 165, one could say that the stock is cheap, though it could get cheaper yet. Long-term Investing - Baidu 'should' prosper from the machine intelligence mega-trend which ultimately means Baidu is set to target and break its previous high of $280 set about 9 months ago. Conclusion - Baidu is a more risky AI play, but on the plus side it's outside of the US TEK basket of stocks so offers AI portfolio diversification. In terms of its poor performance during the past few years, we'll that reflects the chinese stocks bear market, and given that one of my investing rules is to accumulate when markets plunge then Baidu trading at $165 looks like a classic long-term buying opportunity even if the stock is riskier than most on this list.And there you have it my top 10 AI stock picks for long-term investing exposure to the machine intelligence mega-trend. The Top 5 stocks will follow in the next newsletter. Again this the whole of this analysis has first been made available to Patrons who support my work: https://www.patreon.com/posts/top-10-ai-stocks-25779914 So for immediate First Access to ALL of my analysis and trend forecasts then do consider becoming a Patron by supporting my work for just $3 per month. https://www.patreon.com/Nadeem_Walayat. Nadeem Walayat http://www.marketoracle.co.uk Copyright 2005-2019 Marketoracle.co.uk (Market Oracle Ltd). All rights reserved. Nadeem Walayat has over 30 years experience of trading derivatives, portfolio management and analysing the financial markets, including one of few who both anticipated and Beat the 1987 Crash. Nadeem's forward looking analysis focuses on UK inflation, economy, interest rates and housing market. He is the author of five ebook's in the The Inflation Mega-Trend and Stocks Stealth Bull Market series that can be downloaded for Free. Nadeem is the Editor of The Market Oracle, a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication that presents in-depth analysis from over 1000 experienced analysts on a range of views of the probable direction of the financial markets, thus enabling our readers to arrive at an informed opinion on future market direction. http://www.marketoracle.co.uk 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 trading losses you may incur as a result of this analysis. Individuals should consult with their personal financial advisors before engaging in any trading activities. Nadeem Walayat Archive 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. This content is expired! Unfortunely this content is expired and cannot be viewed anymore; if You are the owner of this content please login to our Website, go to our access panel and enable this content again. 99 murals created on motorway barrier in east Rome. A 1.2-km wall of murals has been created in the Torraccia district of east Rome, on an anti-noise barrier separating the suburb from the Grande Raccordo Anulare (GRA) motorway. Known as the Miglio d'Arte, the wall of painted panels contains 99 murals by 120 street artists who worked for free. Inaugurating the project, which began in August last year, Rome's mayor Virginia Raggi hailed the Miglio d'Arte as an "open-air museum" and a "model of active citizenship." The themes of the murals include environmental protection, friendship, love and justice, as well as works dedicated to the memory of those who no longer exist and to historic activities in the area. The project was co-ordinated by the association Arte e Citta a Colori, in collaboration with other voluntary associations such as Retake Roma, and all expenses were covered by donations raised by local residents. Cover image: Retake Roma Virginia state conservators work Tuesday on a time capsule found in the base of the Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee monument in Richmond. (Video: Reuters: photo: AP) The capsule opened Tuesday appears to be the official artifact buried in 1887, containing Confederate memorabilia. In Defence of Marxism is committed to safeguarding your privacy. At all times we aim to respect any personal data you share with us, or that we receive from other organisations, and keep it safe. This Privacy Policy (Policy) sets out our data collection and processing practices and your options regarding the ways in which your personal information is used. This Policy contains important information about your personal rights to privacy. 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Please let us know if you have any queries or concerns whatsoever about the way in which your data is being processed by emailing the Data Protection Manager at webmaster@marxist.com That willingness to solve the equation of his own existence, no matter what its components, is a hallmark of Vuongs entrancing new book, which is labeled a novel but draws heavily on the events of his life. He was born in Saigon in 1988, and two years later was brought to the United States where he and his relatives lived in poverty in Hartford, Conn. None of them could speak English. Vuong didnt learn to read until he was 11, but before he was 30, his poetry had won a slate of major honors, including the T.S. Eliot Prize, and been published in Poetry magazine, the New Yorker and other prestigious journals. Now he teaches writing at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. In summary, his is the archetypal immigrant story on rocket fuel. The significance of Bunchs appointment as the 14th secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, announced Tuesday, goes far beyond the simple fact that he is the first African American to hold the job. The news was received ecstatically within the institution, not just because Bunch is smart and affable, and has on his resume an unparalleled accomplishment, having served since 2005 as founding director of the Smithsonians newest franchise, the African American Museum, which opened in 2016. Bunch also is the first museum director to be named head of the Smithsonian in almost 75 years, which means he understands the museums, which are the Smithsonians greatest scholarly and public asset. But the importance of his tenure surpasses any institutional concerns. As he ascends to one of the most powerful positions in the museum world, Bunch inherits a host of challenges that will test his political, fundraising and management skills. As the worlds largest museum and education organization, the Smithsonian has struggled to catch up with technological advances, has a massive and costly backlog of maintenance needs, and faces pressure to add branches focused on American Latinos and women. Efforts to improve diversity and inclusion in staff, collections and exhibitions are underway but are far from complete, and a recent mandate to connect a sprawling bureaucracy of independent museums hasnt gotten much traction. Among these is Klytmnestra (more commonly spelled Clytemnestra the plays under review use atypical spellings for some names), who kills her husband, Agamemnon, for having sacrificed their daughter Iphigenia. Other vivid figures in the play include a priestess; Klytmnestras macho, rapping son; and the knowing, sultry Helen of Troy, who asserts that she and her sister Klytmnestra are kingmakers whose husbands are nothing more than what we have made. Running with Beto (HBO at 8) Follow along with Beto ORourke as he runs for the Senate in 2018. See more on the documentary from Hank Stuever . Zaytinya chef Michael Costa, Andres and others spent months working on the system. Among other things, they had to program the software with the exact cooking times for each of the dozens of dishes on the menu (information that is updated regularly with new data collected from the kitchen). A server will punch in a tables entire order but send only a few dishes at a time to the kitchen to prepare and hold the rest until the diners are ready for the next round. The dish with the longest prep time will take precedence, and once a line cook starts on it, the computer will stagger the start times of the other dishes, so that the food in that round reaches the table simultaneously and in peak condition. This article, first published in Socialist Revolution (US magazine of the IMT), argues that the historical pendulum is swinging towards an eventual resurgence of the labour movement. What needs to be in place for a future revolution to succeed? What kind of organisation and programme can lead the working class to victory? When a seismic shift occurs in nature, all the accumulated pressure that had built up silently over a long period of apparent calm is suddenly released, instantly transforming the landscape. The reconfiguration of public opinion over socialism in the US has had a similar effect on the leftit has unleashed a debate that is pushing socialists to ask more interesting questions about what it will take to transform this society in our lifetime. Amid the churn of ideas, perspectives, and attitudes, there is an urgent attempt to make sense of the present epoch, to separate what is possible from what is unrealistic, to take stock of what is new and what is fundamentally unchanged about the tasks that confront us. The changed situation is fueling a polemic between revolutionary optimism and despairing pessimism. These contending attitudes reflect the dissonant clash between the vigour of the newly radicalised generation and the burnout of the old-guard activists who have been uprooted from the relative tranquillity of the pre-seismic political environment. Theres a sense now that socialists are beginning to swim with the stream / Image: Flickr, Mathiaswasik On one hand, theres a sense that the historical tide is turning against capitalism, and socialists are beginning to swim with the stream. The growing angst of the ruling class over socialisms popularityand even over the very survival of the capitalist systemhas become a frequent topic in the media. It has been a long time since weve let the ruling classes tremble like this, and yet, in place of the emboldened optimism youd expect from the growing socialist left, the array of voices peddling cynicism and defeatism is surprising. Bleak is the new red announces Salvage, a quarterly written by and for the desolated leftmade up of veterans of the activist scene who have earned their pessimism and have left their former organisations, dejected and tired of being told the revolution was coming, only to be let down time and again. Lacking a balanced perspective as to how the class struggle was unfolding, some socialists found that their expectations did not sync with reality. Instead of giving up their schemas and adjusting their perspectives, they gave up hope altogether. Groupings like Salvage take comfort in styling themselves as revolutionary pessimistsas if there were something novel or revolutionary about adopting a glum outlook on history. Far from being a serious contribution to the strategic debate, this is just a particularly morose variation on an old theme. Fortunately, the bleak outlook of the flotsam of the previous phase does not reflect the mood of the millions who are coming to socialist ideas today. But so-called revolutionary pessimism finds other, more subtle, exponents, which have managed to stake ground in the current debate on socialist strategy. One of these is Jacobins Vivek Chibber, whose article Our Road to Power pays tribute to the Leninist party organisation as the only model proven to be politically effective, and even concedes that, Given that history, its hard to imagine a way for the left to organise itself as a real force without some variant of the structure the early socialists hit upona mass cadre-based party with a centralised leadership and internal coherence. However, after applauding the Bolsheviks for their tactical success in sinking roots among the working class, he passes from the topic of organisation to the realm of strategy, and the admonishing tone of the NYU professor comes out, assuring the reader that the October Revolution has less to offer us today on the question of strategy: One might describe this as a strategy of a ruptural break with capitalism. Now theres no doubt that the decades from the early twentieth century all the way to the Spanish Civil War could be described as a revolutionary period. It was an era in which the possibility of rupture could be seriously contemplated and a strategy built around it. There were lots of socialists who advocated for a more gradualist approach, but the revolutionaries who criticised them werent living in a dream world. The Russian road, as it were, was for many parties a viable one. But starting in the 1950s, openings for this kind of strategy narrowed. And today, it seems entirely hallucinatory to think about socialism through this lens. The basic idea is that were living in a post-revolutionary era, in which traditional class struggle and insurrection are consigned to a remote past. To be a realist is to lower your head in despondence and accept the need for a gradualistthat is, reformiststrategy. But what is it about the present epoch that forces us to rule out the kind of revolution that the Bolsheviks achieved? The professor informs us: Today, the state has infinitely greater legitimacy with the population than European states did a century ago. Further, its coercive power, its power of surveillance, and the ruling classs internal cohesiveness give the social order a stability that is orders of magnitude greater than it had in 1917 . . . Today, the political stability of the state is a reality that the Left has to acknowledge. This appraisal of our epoch is frankly baffling, at a time when the worlds governments are more discredited than ever, and anti-establishment sentiment is near universal. An EU-sponsored survey recently asked over half a million people ages 18 to 34 Would you actively participate in large-scale uprising against the government in power if it happened in the next days or months? Among Greek youth, 67 percent answered in the affirmative, as did 65 percent in Italy, 63 percent in Spain, 61 percent in Francehardly a testament to the states legitimacy with the youth, who represent the future battalions of the class struggle. Equally puzzling is the claim of greater internal cohesiveness of the ruling classat a time when the traditional liberal centre has all but collapsed, and extreme polarisation is the defining political feature of the global situation. In the US, the president himself is one of the primary destabilising factors. It seems not a week goes by without a new constitutional crisis or a high profile scandal that undermines the facade of legitimacy of the state institutions. The regime at the head of the most powerful capitalist country on earth could be characterised in many ways, but it is anything but cohesive or stable! For millions of American workers and youth, the grotesque absurdity of having a racist billionaire in the White House is a modern picture of prerevolutionary decadence, at a time when inequality has reached almost unfathomable levels. As the anger and polarisation in society intensify, it is not the advocates of a revolutionary strategy who are living in a dream world. To imagine we are headed for a protracted period of capitalist growth and political stability, as during the postwar boom, and to urge the left to temper its ambitions accordinglythis is the hallucinatory position. The regime leading the most-powerful capitalist country on earth is anything but stable" / Image: Socialist Appeal Revolutionary optimism has nothing to do with hoping against hope that the revolution is around every corner. Its a broader historical vantage point that looks beyond the present moment and sees the factors that promise an intensification of the class struggle on the basis of the contradictions inherent within capitalism. The confident optimism of the bourgeoisie is a thing of the past. It had a material basis. For a time, the development of the productive forces enabled humanity to lift itself up and increase its mastery over nature. Today, the same class that oversaw that progress is now standing in its way, and this social impasse can only be broken by the revolutionary action of our class. The capitalists are powerless to prevent a further onslaught on living standards and the environment. The revolutionary optimists are simply those who see the pressure building along a fault line that has long appeared dormant on the surface. As with the timing of an earthquake, the precise moment when the accumulated anger passes into a revolutionary explosion cannot be predetermined. But to rule it out altogether is like concluding that seismic activity along a particular fault line is a thing of the pastwhen it is a fact of life that no fault line remains dormant forever. For those who can see that the historical pendulum promises an eventual resurgence of the labour movement, the strategic question is: what needs to be in place for a future revolution to succeed? For this it is indispensable to return to the lessons of Bolshevism, as so many socialists are doing today. The heightened interest in Lenins organisational conception is a promising indicator of the lefts future trajectory. So what is a cadre organisation? In its most general sense, a cadre is an organisational frameworkthe word means frame in Frenchconsisting of seasoned personnel capable of rapidly forming and training an expanded organisation when conditions make this necessary or possible. The term is most commonly used in a military context to signify a key group of officers and enlisted personnel necessary to establish and train a new military unit. The parallels between war and revolution provide a useful illustration of the dynamic function of a cadre organisation. The process of wartime mobilisation hinges on the ability of a ruling class to raise an army with maximum efficiency, and it is the role of the military cadre to take the influx of new recruits or conscripts and organise them into battle-ready detachments in the shortest possible space of time. The essential dynamic of the cadre organisation is its ability to systematically transmit a method or a body of expertise from an initially limited framework of personnel to an exponentially larger numerical force. This transmission belt is the essential operation, and in order for the general staff to be qualified for this task, the officers are themselves required to pass through an extensive preparation in a military academy. In addition to a thorough training in military science, structure, and protocol, the curriculum at West Point is designed to provide military leaders with a well-rounded theoretical education that includes history, philosophy, economics, international relations, foreign language, and even psychology and literature. To prepare for the success of a future revolution, we must return to the lessons of Bolshevism / Image: public domain The analogy highlights a central aspect of Lenins cadre organisation that is too often neglected in modern accounts of the legacy of Bolshevism. The October Revolution was made possible because the thousands of cadres in the party ranks had passed through two decades of training in the makeshift revolutionary academy of Bolshevismhundreds of clandestine study circles and discussion groups that collectively imbued these individuals with the dynamic revolutionary worldview offered by Marxist theory. At the start of 1917, the Bolsheviks numbered 8,000a drop in the bucket for a country of 185 millionbut over the next eight months, that framework of professional revolutionaries grew more than thirty-fold, and won over virtually the entirety of the working class to its programme. They succeeded in sinking roots in the class, and this constituted a crucial part of the cadres political education. On this point, we can absolutely agree with the base-buildersif socialists are not embedded in the working class, there can be no talk of winning the class to a socialist programme. Where Bolshevism diverges from todays base-building projects is in the content of what is being embedded as well as how this is carried out. The scientific method of Marxism, and the ideas, perspectives, and programme that derive from it, are the genetic information that make the revolution possibleif and when they are transmitted en masse into the class struggle. The political education of the Marxist circles was never a cherry on topit was the key factor that made October 1917 possible. The winning of political and economic power by the American working class is absolutely possible in our epoch. What is needed is to train the cadres who can intervene in the intensifying class struggle and transmit a programme that transcends the limits of capitalism once and for all. Old Ebbitt sets the bar for oysters, which budgeteers can enjoy during twice-a-day happy hours and which come with an Oyster Eaters Bill of Rights. The kitchen also does well by fried calamari, tossed with pickled cherry peppers, and crusty crab cakes, served with freshly creamy coleslaw and fries that are cut by hand impressive for a place that attracts more than 1 million visitors a year through its (ever) revolving door. Not every dish is a winner shepherds pie tastes like meatloaf soup but this is a business that puts the customer first, be it with handsome salt and pepper shakers ready and waiting on linen-draped tables or a bartender who offers a handshake, asks your name and remembers it when you leave. No wonder it sold $33 million in food and drink last year. Old Ebbitt is as much a monument as anything on the Mall. Global warming is just one issue kids have found they can press for change. There are also youths who speak out about homelessness, bullying, gun violence, mental health and many other issues. So we at KidsPost hope that even more kids will think about ways they can Make a Difference, which is this years Summer Book Club theme. Weve picked eight books in which kids engage, in ways big and small, to better the world. Well reveal a bit more about each book Wednesdays beginning June 12. We hope you will read along and realize that even global movements can start with just one. Politicians one second say climate change is very important, it is the most important topic and we are going to do everything we can to stop it, she said. And the next second, they want to expand airports, build new coal power plants and motorways. And then they fly off in a private jet to attend a meeting on the other side of the world. Just because you cant hear it on Frankens podcast doesnt mean the conversation isnt happening elsewhere. On the presidential campaign trail, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) gets asked on a regular basis about her decision to call for Frankens resignation (I had a choice to make whether to stay silent or not, whether to say, Thats not okay with me, and I decided to say that, Gillibrand said at a recent MSNBC town hall). Frankens friends, like Silverman, come to his defense in the pages of glossy magazines (Im so sad that he got bullied into resigning, she told GQ in a 2018 interview). And when the podcast isnt rolling, Franken will gripe, according to friends and co-workers, about what was taken away from him. He returned to the region for Midnight Rising, his 2011 study of John Browns 1859 attack on the federal armory in Harpers Ferry, W.Va. (then part of Virginia), and again for Spying on the South, which was published on May 14. He had been scheduled to speak about the book this week at Politics & Prose in the District. Across the District, at least 20 people were shot from Saturday to just after midnight Tuesday. Two of them, including Maurice, were killed by gunfire and a third person died in a stabbing. Much of the violence was concentrated east of the Anacostia River, though shootings were reported in every quadrant, including near Nationals Park and outside the Metro Center Metro station in Northwest Washington. Hussein had become fixated on Zayass relationship with a person they both knew, police said. Hussein had been seen outside Zayass home several times in the past and had threatened to kill Zayas last summer, police said. A spokeswoman for the town of Greensboro sent an email to the Sun regarding the complaint that stated: We received a complaint and are preparing a substantive response. The Town of Greensboro offers members of the public the opportunity to speak at our public meetings. We fully recognize and value our communitys right to free speech and believe a healthy dialogue is the foundation upon which strong community relations are formed. The Town of Greensboro offers members of the public the opportunity to speak at our public meetings. We fully recognize and value our communitys right to free speech and believe a healthy dialogue is the foundation upon which strong community relations are formed. Maryland State Police said Dustin Michael Curtis, 19, of Mount Airy was driving a Harley Davidson when he lost control of it, slid across the road and hit the guardrail. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Nationwide, more than 12 percent of people ages 14 to 49 are infected with HSV-2, the principal cause of genital herpes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But an increasing number of genital herpes cases are caused by HSV-1, which is usually associated with cold sores around the mouth and affects about 1 in 2 Americans ages 14 to 49. Most people with genital herpes dont know they have it because they dont experience any symptoms, which typically include painful sores or blisters on or around the genital regions or the mouth. But those who are asymptomatic are still capable of spreading the virus. Bonuses for knocking on the most voter doors will be awarded to the top four candidates every month from July through October, Squadron said. But only voter contacts made by the candidates themselves will count not visits made by campaign staff or volunteers. Whether you raise dollars or not, if you knock on this many doors, youre going to increase your chances of winning, he said. She had portrayed herself as somewhat independent I dont have the impression she is exactly what she has sold herself as, said Paul Johnson, a Brat voter who was dismayed that Spanberger voted for H.R. 1, legislation containing measures including restricting partisan gerrymandering, creating automatic voter registration, making Election Day a federal holiday and requiring super PACs to disclose donors. She is going to have to be very, very careful about siding with Nancy Pelosi, taking some of these extreme positions, taking rights away from the states. Dai Nagase, an official at the Kawasaki city fire department, said 19 people had been injured at the scene, three of whom were not breathing. One hospital said one man in his 50s had died and four people had been seriously injured, including three girls and one woman in her 40s, while another hospital said an adult man in his 30s had also been confirmed dead. Just as Sundays election results likely dont signal much about what voters intend to do in national elections, it isnt even clear how much influence the results will ultimately have over E.U. policy. But the results do tell us, with crystal clarity, that voters are still fed up with the status quo. They may want to return to a rosy-hued past of national strength and unity, or press forward toward an environmentalist paradise, but they all agree that they hate the incumbents, the policies theyve supported and, increasingly, the institutions that put those policies into practice. And even if the E.U. elections dont matter much, that anger will. The action was another violation by Mr. Trump of established norms, if not law. The administrations notification did not explain what emergency allowed it to use a loophole in the Arms Export Control Act, which gives Congress authority to review weapons sales. Though Secretary of State Mike Pompeo cited the need for Arab nations to deter and defend themselves against Iran, some of the arms being provided will not be available for years, which means they are not relevant to the civil war in Yemen or rising tensions elsewhere in the region. Some of the materiel is going to Jordan, which is not at war in Yemen or anywhere else. We investigated. We didnt gather information about the campaigns strategy. We didnt spy on anyones campaign. We investigated to see whether it was true that Americans associated with the campaign had taken the Russians up on any offer of help. By late October, the investigators thought they had probable cause to get a federal court order to conduct electronic surveillance of a former Trump campaign adviser named Carter Page. Page was no longer with the campaign, but there was reason to believe he was acting as an agent of the Russian government. We asked a federal judge for permission to surveil him and then we did it, all without revealing our work, despite the fact that it was late October and a leak would have been very harmful to candidate Trump. Worst deep-state conspiracy ever. All it does is accelerate the corrosive effect he has had on what used to be considered acceptable behavior on the part of our nations leaders. It also encourages those who oppose him to employ the same tactics, which never accomplishes anything. As the hoary adage goes, Never wrestle with a pig. You get dirty, and besides, the pig likes it. In a statement, Bidens campaign said: Educators deserve a partner in the White House. . . . With President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, theyll get two. Dr. Biden has worked as an educator for more than 30 years. She and Joe understand that, for educators, their profession isnt just what they do; it is who they are. Without comment, the court declined to review an opinion from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit that upheld the Boyertown Area School District policy. A half-dozen current and former students sued the school system in 2017, saying that allowing transgender students to change clothes alongside them in locker rooms and to use the same bathrooms violated the privacy rights of students who are not transgender. The appeals court ruled last year that the students who sued had failed to show how transgender students violated their privacy rights more than non-transgender students did. Mesa had said he and other agents were under attack from a rock-throwing gang, but cellphone videos of the incident indicated that was not true. Mesa grabbed one of the other youths and then, while holding on to him, shot at Sergio, killing him as he peered from behind a bridge piling. The comment by Jeffries (N.Y.) came in a tweet in which he sought to highlight the silence of many Republicans in response to Trump saying over the weekend that he agrees with the assessment of North Korean state media that former vice president Joe Biden is a fool of low IQ. An English major from eastern China who speaks flawless English, some French, German and Turkish, Liu became the first Chinese student to win an international public speaking competition in London in 1996. She joined CCTV after graduating and became one of its highest-profile correspondents, covering events like President Barack Obamas state visit to Beijing, the Iran nuclear talks and the conflict in Syria. But Mohsin Dawar, a national legislator from the PTM who participated in the protest and fled when the violence erupted, said in an online video posted from an unknown location Monday that he had seen 12 people dead and scores injured. He said that the crowd had been noisy but nonviolent and that the troops had fired directly into the rally. A second legislator, Ali Wazir, was arrested at the scene. Sitting in the pitch-dark cell, I questioned in fury why my legitimate efforts to earn a living landed me in this jail, said Oh, who had been a market merchant in North Korea for three years before escaping to South Korea in 2014. The then-20-year-old had to bribe her way out of detention. This did not please the Canadian hosts of the committee, who blasted the pair for their failure to appear and even issued an unusual, open-ended summons: Zuckerberg and Sandberg will be required to come before Parliament should they venture from Silicon Valley to Canada for any reason. In celebration of its year-long Silver Jubilee, GS1 Mauritius pursues its close collaboration with the Government to increase the adoption and implementation of GS1 Barcodes, to further contribute to the economic development of Mauritius and Rodrigues. In this context, GS1(MAURITIUS) LTD and SME Mauritius Ltd today announced an extension to their previous collaboration to also support Rodriguan MSMEs by providing them financial assistance to acquire GS1 Barcodes to access new markets. Today, it is hard to imagine life without barcodes. Any operator including MSMEs willing to expand the distribution of their products to supermarkets should barcode their products. Barcodes are those symbols that are unique product identifiers and can be scanned electronically using laser or camera-based systems. The GS1 Barcodes allocated by GS1(MAURITIUS) LTD are unique worldwide. By acquiring GS1 Barcodes under this scheme, Rodriguan MSMEs will not only upgrade their products and gain easier access to new markets, but they will reap numerous benefits. With GS1 Barcodes, MSMEs will gain efficiency whilst enjoying lower costs through inventory management and will be able to export without any modification since GS1 Barcodes are internationally recognised standards. Thes GS1 Barcodes and standards not only enable implementing product traceability solutions, but their uniqueness further enables the detection of counterfeited products, thus contributing tremendously to gaining consumer confidence. By adopting GS1 Barcodes and standards, MSMEs will further gain international visibility through GS1 GEPIR and GS1 Cloud. GS1 GEPIR (Global Electronic Party Information Registry) is a unique, internet-based service that gives anyone access to basic contact information for companies that are members of GS1 whilst GS1 Cloud is the largest source of trusted product information in the world. GS1(MAURITIUS) LTD firmly believes that nurturing the entrepreneurship culture within Mauritius and Rodrigues is crucial and MSMEs, whether in Mauritius or Rodrigues, must be well equipped to compete and operate in the economy of the future. Recognising the need to enable MSMEs to acquire GS1 Barcodes; under this scheme, SME Mauritius Ltd will finance 100% of the Registration fees and Training Fees for eligible MSMEs. With the signature of this MoU, both organisations are confident that MSMEs will largely benefit since the collaboration goes beyond acquiring GS1 Barcodes to access markets easier. GS1(MAURITIUS) LTD is also committed to provide training to ensure that the MSMEs acquire working knowledge to implement their barcodes correctly and to avoid any possible retailer rejection of their products. Furthermore, the collaboration includes access to technical support, a database to manage their barcodes and free technical documents. MSMEs will also get a Membership Certificate, the proof that they are the unique authorised licensee of the GS1 Barcodes. This is the second collaboration between GS1(MAURITIUS) LTD and SME Mauritius Ltd, after the MoU signed in March 2018 for Mauritian MSMEs to acquire GS1 Barcodes; and it is GS1(MAURITIUS) LTDs third collaboration with the government to provide more support to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to acquire GS1 barcodes and standards. In fact, GS1(MAURITIUS) LTD has recently signed an MoU with Small Farmers Welfare Fund in March 2019 to provide financial assistance to eligible micro, small and medium agro-processors to acquire GS1 Barcodes. Partager et informez vous aussi...... 0 shares Share Tweet LinkedIn Some church analysts sounded a note of caution, because the documents were not originals and were not published in full. Still, Figueiredo took pains to present himself as a neutral messenger loyal to Pope Francis, with no interest in the highly politicized inner-church battles over the McCarrick case. Figueiredo wrote that he had moral reasons for coming forward, and he quoted Pope Franciss own vow to follow the path of truth. MOSCOW When members of the Taliban and Afghan politicians met Tuesday in the Russian capital for talks aimed at ending the war in their country, one face in particular stood out: Abdul Ghani Baradar, a co-founder of the Taliban and the head of its political office, who spoke publicly for the first time about the need for a peace deal. But at the moment, the two are at loggerheads as Netanyahu faces the challenge of balancing the demands of the ultrareligious parties, which he needs as partners and which increased their number of seats in the elections, with those of the fiercely secular Liberman. Liberman is insisting on the passing of a law drafting the ultra-Orthodox into the military. The State Department briefings, a fixture since the Eisenhower administration, have served a small, targeted audience looking for gleanings of a shift in U.S. foreign policy and reaction to events around the world. They amplify the United States message, provide guidance to embassies and diplomats in Foggy Bottom and underscore the American belief in transparency even in the case of questions from Tass and Pravda. On behalf of the first lady and myself, I want to take a moment to send our prayers and sympathy to the victims of the stabbing attack this morning in Tokyo, Trump said in a speech aboard a Japanese aircraft carrier. All Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and for their families. Yet successive governments that promised to build more prisons werent able to keep up with the ballooning inmate population. Space for more than 8,650 inmates has been built since the beginning of 2018 but the number of new inmates jumped by more than 17,800 during the same period, according to the Igarape Institute. Woodside has fired pre-emptive strikes on consultations over the push for zero emissions on new resource projects by the WA environmental watchdog, warning the agency not to reissue the controversial guidelines. But Environmental Protection Authority chairman Tom Hatton has swiftly rejected suggestions that the agency would reissue the guidelines without substantial reconsideration. Woodside CEO Peter Coleman is warning the EPA not to just reissue the same greenhouse gas guidelines. Credit:David Moir The March guidelines key feature was that all new resources projects emitting more than 100,000 tonnes a year of CO2 be immediately carbon-neutral through measures such as offsets. Days after announcing them, interventions by the mining and petroleum industry led the EPA to withdraw the guidelines pending further industry consultation, on the Premiers request. Fast food giant Domino's Pizza will deliver lower-than-expected profit over the next three years as sales slow and it opens fewer new stores, according to an assessment by broker Morgan Stanley which sent shares to an almost four-year low. Morgan Stanley analyst Thomas Kierath on Tuesday cut his price target for the ASX-listed company's shares from $50 to $41, and sliced his recommendation to investors from overweight to equal weight. Domino's Pizza is trying to get under-performing store owners out of its network. Credit:Wayne Taylor Domino's shares fell as much as 6 per cent and closed down 5 per cent at $38.66, which is the lowest they have traded since September 2015. The shares hit highs of $80 in 2016. Mr Keirath, who had been one of Domino's most bullish analysts with a price target of $95 in 2016, said that after 10 years of strong double-digit growth the company's Australian and New Zealand business was slowing. "If China shut down all the Apple plants, the US would get very upset. This is a similar kind of move." Ren says Donald Trump's bluster is "laughable." Credit:Bloomberg Ren has had much to deal with of late. His company finds itself increasingly under fire, besieged by a US effort to get key allies to ban its equipment. The US assault helped crystallise fears about Huawei's growing clout in areas from wireless infrastructure and semiconductors to consumer gadgets. Then came the blacklist. Huawei appears to have anticipated this possibility since at least mid-2018, when similar sanctions threatened to sink rival ZTE. Huawei's said to have stockpiled enough chips and other vital components to keep its business running at least three months. "We have made some really good chips," said Ren, a legendary figure in his home country thanks to the way he built Huawei from scratch into a global powerhouse. "Being able to grow in the toughest battle environment, that just reflects how great we are." Last week, Trump said Huawei could become part of a US-Chinese trade deal, stirring speculation it was a bargaining chip in sensitive negotiations. But Ren said he wasn't a politician. "It's a big joke," he scoffed. "How are we related to China-US trade?" Even if the US wants to buy our products in the future, I may not sell to them. There's no need for a negotiation. Huawei founder Ren Zhengfei If Trump calls, "I will ignore him, then to whom can he negotiate with? If he calls me, I may not answer. But he doesn't have my number." In fact, Ren pulled no punches in going after a man he labelled "a great president" just months prior. "I see his tweets and think it's laughable because they're self-contradictory," he quipped. "How did he become a master of the art of the deal?" Beijing itself isn't without options. Some speculate China might retaliate against the ban of Huawei which may widen to include some of its most promising AI firms by in turn barring America's largest corporations from its own markets. Apple could relinquish nearly a third of its profit if China banned its products, Goldman Sachs analysts estimate. Ren said he would not support any retaliation by China against US giant Apple. Credit:Bloomberg Ren said he would object to any such move against his American rival. "That will not happen, first of all. And second of all, if that happens, I'll be the first to protest," Ren said in the interview. "Apple is my teacher, it's in the lead. As a student, why go against my teacher? Never." At the heart of Trump's campaign is suspicion that Huawei aids Beijing in espionage while spearheading China's ambitions to become a technology superpower. It's been accused for years of stealing intellectual property in lawsuits filed by American companies from Cisco and Motorola to T-Mobile. Critics say such theft helped Huawei vault into the upper echelons of technology but Ren laughed off that premise. Loading "I stole the American technologies from tomorrow. The US doesn't even have those technologies," he said. "We are ahead of the US If we were behind, there would be no need for Trump to strenuously attack us." Ren's easy demeanour belies the way he's consistently shunned attention. The army engineer-turned-entrepreneur has this year turned in a command performance in the public spotlight, particularly for someone who's rarely spoken to foreign media since he created Huawei. The re-emergence of the reclusive CEO who before January last spoke with foreign media in 2015 underscores the depth of the attacks on Huawei, the largest symbol of China's growing technological might. Ren again waved off speculation his company is in any way beholden to the Communist Party, though he's declared his loyalty ultimately lies with the country's stocksruling body. US lawmakers aren't convinced. That's why the US Commerce Department cut off the flow of American technology from chips to software and everything in-between. An iconic figure in Chinese business circles, the billionaire remains a uniquely placed voice in a conflict that will help define the global landscape. Ren, who says he survived the chaos of the Cultural Revolution thanks in part to his much sought-after expertise in high-precision tools, remains a big believer that Huawei's technology will win the day. The last of Hong Kong's 'Big Four' property dynasties is handing over the reins to a younger generation, completing a flood of successions at family empires worth $109 billion ($157 billion). Lee Shau Kee, the city's second-richest man, announced his plans to step down as chairman of Henderson Land Development on Tuesday. He'll be succeeded by his two sons. Lee's retirement comes one year after Victor Li, son of Hong Kong's richest man Li Ka-shing, took over the chairmanship of CK Hutchison Holdings and CK Asset Holdings from his father. Lee Shau-Kee's property empire is now in the hands of his two sons. Credit:AP Lee, who will still advise his sons on major matters, said elder son Peter will focus on Henderson's mainland China business while younger son Martin will take care of the Hong Kong assets. The scions have been involved in the company since as early as the 1980s, which Lee said made him confident in passing on the baton. "For years I have stayed behind the scene and let them run the show. They have done very well with full marks. I am confident to pass them the baton," the 91-year-old said in an exclusive interview with Bloomberg. When Uncle Jack Charles talks people listen. In part thats because it can be hard to get a word in edgeways once the self-confessed loudmouth is in full flow. But mostly its because of the credibility that comes not only from the veteran Indigenous actors successful stage and screen career but also from his many years of homelessness, heroin addiction, thievery and prison time. Since 2005, having kicked his habit for good, he has wielded that credibility and authority to increasing effect, working with Indigenous prisoners and taking a leading role among his own Boon Wurrung people. Two young women walk out of the Worlds End pub and disappear into the cold Edinburgh night. The next time anyone sees them, they are dead. Christine Eadies body will be found first, dumped on the sand dunes of Gosford Bay, just outside the Scottish capital. Helen Scotts body is found later, a few kilometres away, dumped in a just-harvested cornfield. Lothian and Borders Police file handout photos of Christine Eadie (left) and Helen Scott, who were murdered by serial killer and rapist Angus Sinclair in 1977. Credit:Lothian and Borders Police/PA Wire It would take 37 years, one failed trial and an Australian mathematician to finally put one of Scotlands most notorious serial killers behind bars. The 1977 Worlds End murders quickly gained international attention. But despite a huge manhunt by local police it took 30 years for a man to be charged. Bravo Prime Minister Scott Morrison! How many of those very few who predicted his re-election also foresaw that he would announce shortly after that he is committed to constitutional recognition? Good. None of you. And yet for the Prime Minister it is brilliant politics. As he is all but solely being credited with the election victory, how impressive if he can use his unchallenged authority to wrong-foot his critics and steer a bipartisan push that would help heal the national divide towards something important that is so long overdue? Yes, an actual legacy! Would the hard right of media and politics bitterly criticise the Prime Minister, if he pushed it hard? Perhaps, a very little. But he would get support, and respect, from broad swathes of those to the left of him who could never have imagined him being so wise. For at issue are some deep truths in our national story. The central point of the First Peoples is that they never ceded sovereignty in the first place, and that the Australian Constitution is therefore built on a false premise is simply irrefutable. The aspect that particularly interests me as one now finishing the final draft of a book on Captain Cook is the first claim of British sovereignty on these lands. Given the importance of the current debate for both recognition and the coming Australian republic, I have gone deeply into what happened. Her grandmother fell to her knees and cried "Why, why?" at the site where Ms Herron's body was found. Ms Herron was raised in Melbourne's northern suburbs in a Greek-Australian family. She had a brother and a sister. Courtney Herron's mother weeps at the site of her death in Royal Park as her grandmother and other family members stand by. A note left by her family reads: To our beloved Courky. Forever in our hearts. Find internal peace with Pappou [Greek for grandfather]. You will be forever safe with him. Her uncle and aunty wrote, You have been taken from us too soon. May you find rest and peace. Courtney Herron struggled with heroin addiction for a number of years and had been sleeping rough in Royal Park. The family also released a statement: "We are heartbroken by the loss of our daughter. Courtney has a family who love and care about her. The loss has devastated our entire family." Friends said Ms Herron had been sleeping in Royal Park. She was a private schoolgirl who had left Genazzano College in year 9 and had told friends she'd previously worked for the Department of Health and Human Services in Preston. They described her as a kind-hearted young woman in the grips of addiction who dreamed of getting clean. She knew her family loved her and she said how lucky she was, how grateful she was that they tried to help her, her friend Jessica Bateman said. She was a person at the end of the day, just like all of us. She was just trying to get by. Ms Herron had told Ms Bateman that she was on waiting lists for housing and could not get on the methadone program, prescribed to treat heroin addiction, without a stable address. Tributes left in Royal Park by Ms Herron's family. Credit:Paul Jeffers She was scared of withdrawal, Ms Bateman said, but wanted to try to get clean. She had been sleeping on friends' couches for several months before sleeping rough. Addiction is a disease, Ms Bateman said. It only progresses you end up in jail, an institution, homeless or dead and we as a community have to band together because its so detrimental to the addict to feel so marginalised and to have this drug-using stigma. Ms Herron's former boyfriend, Ahmet Ozkurt, said she had a great sense of humour. However, he said she had struggled with addiction for about seven years, which had strained her relationship with family and friends who had battled to help her back onto the right path. They tried to help many times, [picking her up] from hospital, her mother and grandparents, but they couldnt stop the drugs, he said. Courtney Herron with her former boyfriend Ahmet Ozkurt. The pair broke up last year, but he said they kept in contact. "She lived with me for two years in a house in Pascoe Vale ... I was looking after her all the time." Mr Ozkurt, 30, originally from Turkey, said the pair met through a mutual friend and were together for three years. He last spoke to Ms Herron a few months ago. "She was alright and doing good but I don't know what kind of people she hung out with," he said. He found out about Ms Herron's death when he saw her picture on the news over the weekend. "I still can't believe it. It's so cruel, so terrible. I'm just shocked. "She was not a bad person, she was a good person. She was funny and friendly." Its understood Ms Herron was well-known to local mental health and drug and alcohol treatment services in inner-city Melbourne, including a history of engagement with the Royal Melbourne Hospital. She had been accessing treatment there for several years. Its believed Ms Herrons grandmother was one of the last family members to try to care for the young woman before she became homeless. Messages left for Courtney Herron. Credit:Paul Jeffers Some of those who knew that Henry Richard Hammond, now 27, are struggling to reconcile him with the same man who fronted Melbourne Magistrates Court on Monday homeless, shoeless and with a black eye charged with the brutal murder of 25-year-old Courtney Herron, a woman who had become homeless and apparently estranged from her family. A man said to be from good family and schooling, who worked sometimes as a barber after studying at Bradfield Senior College in northern Sydney. Others have told The Age they avoided him for years because of his lifestyle choices. One said he was bullied and would regularly miss school. A more recent image of Henry Hammond Credit:Facebook The images he projected to the world are spread across three separate Facebook profiles. The earliest, apparently abandoned last year, show a life before the "tragic and complex" case heard for the first time in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Monday. The posts document the birth of a child, an engagement, and an offer of a haircut to his 1300-odd Facebook friends. Alleged victims of accused child sex abuser Malka Leifer have described a meeting between WA Deputy Premier Roger Cook and an Israeli politician under investigation for allegedly hindering her extradition to Australia as deeply hurtful and a "slap in the face". Mr Cook met Israeli Deputy Health Minister Rabbi Yaakov Litzman while leading a delegation from WA in discussions on digital medicine, medical cannabis and vaccination policy, according to an Israeli government media statement. Dassi Erlich, an alleged victim of a child sex accused awaiting extradition from Israel, has spoken out about WA Deputy Premier Roger Cook's meeting with an Israeli politician linked to the extradition proceedings. Credit:Joe Armao Rabbi Litzman has been accused of pressuring health officials and psychiatrists into declaring Ms Leifer unfit for extradition from Israel, allegations which are under investigation by the Jerusalem District Attorneys Office. He told Israeli media in February his intervention in the case was "all for the good of the public, everything was legal". London: British eurosceptic Nigel Farage said on Monday that his new Brexit Party's victory in the European election should spur Britain to leave the European Union even without a divorce deal. Nigel Farage, leader of the Brexit Party. Credit:Bloomberg His call was echoed by many senior Conservatives, stung by their party's humiliating defeat. Farage's single-issue party and pro-EU forces combined to trounce Britain's two dominant political parties in the European Parliament election, as angry voters blamed the ruling Conservatives and the opposition Labour Party for the country's Brexit impasse. With complete results announced on Monday, the Brexit Party had won 29 of the 73 British EU seats up for grabs and almost a third of the votes. On the pro-EU side, the Liberal Democrats took 20 per cent of the vote and 16 seats - a dramatic increase from the single seat in won in the last EU election in 2014. Jerusalem: Israel's parliament on Monday passed a preliminary motion to dissolve itself. The move further pushed the country toward an unprecedented political impasse, less than two months after elections seemed to promise Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a new mandate. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Credit:AP If the bill receives final passage in a vote scheduled on Wednesday, Israel would be forced to hold new elections - sending the political system into disarray. Netanyahu appeared to have a clear path to victory, and a fourth consecutive term, after the April 9 elections. His Likud party emerged tied as the largest party in the 120-seat parliament, and with his traditional allies, he appeared to control a solid 65-55 majority. Professor Ben Powell recently visited the University of The Bahamas on behalf of The Nassau Institute to speak about Free Trade in Labour. Lecture Summary There is a huge disjoint between popular beliefs about the impact of immigration on the economy and what social scientists find when they study immigration. Powell will argue that greater immigration has the potential to drive a massive reduction in global poverty while simultaneously enriching destination countries. Contrary to popular fears immigrants dont steal our jobs or have created a general depression in wages. Most of the problems associated with immigration arent problems of immigration per se, but rather of how public policy interacts with migration. Powell will explore these issues and how policy might better handle increased immigration. Watch the video here... BRIDGEPORT A local man ripped off a WWII veteran and others from across the country for thousands of dollars before, police said, they arrested him following an armed standoff in a Fairfield bank. Carl Myers, wearing a red, hooded sweatshirt, stood before Superior Court Judge Kevin Russo Tuesday morning and pleaded not guilty to first and second-degree larceny, telephone fraud, money laundering, risk of injury to a child, assault on a police officer, interfering with police and threatening. He asked for a jury trial. Myers lawyer, Corey Heiks, told a judge he will later argue for a reduction of his clients $750,000 bond. The case was continued to June 5. Everyone in this country is presumed innocent until proven guilty, Heiks said later as he left the Fairfield County Courthouse. Police said the 46-year-old Myers, identifying himself as the owner of a Texas construction company, From Start 2 Finish Construction, allegedly stole $128,000 from a 91-year-old WWII veteran from Houston on the pretext of building a waterside residential complex in Stratford. When Houston police contacted the veteran, police said, they determined the man suffers from dementia and said he was sending checks to Myers because he believed Myers had served with him. Police said they later learned that Myers had allegedly stolen $15,000 from a 76-year-old Minnesota woman. The woman, who is ill, told detectives she had sent Myers the money after she and her granddaughter were threatened by unknown individuals, police said. Police said they found evidence that Myers was allegedly setting up numerous other people as part of an apparent fraud scheme. On April 19, police said they were alerted by the manager of the Sasco Hill Road, Fairfield, branch of the Bankwell Financial Group that Myers was in the bank attempting to cash a large check from a Texas bank. When officers confronted Myers, they said he identified himself as the owner of a construction company but could provide no information on where he intended to build in Stratford or who was financing the project. He was not charged at that time. However, four days later, police were called back to the bank. Police said Myers had entered the bank with his young son and had gone into an office with a bank employee. When Fairfield police detectives approached him, police said Myers stood up with a gun in his hand which he began waving around asking, What did I do wrong? Detectives pulled out their guns and demanded Myers drop his as Detective Fred Caruso ran over, grabbed Myers son and took him outside the bank. After at first ignoring commands to drop his gun, police said Myers eventually placed it on the teller counter. But police said he fought with officers who tried to handcuff him and had to be Tasered. WESTPORT The Westport Sunrise Rotary will be hosting its annual Great Duck Race event on June 1. In addition to the Parker Harding Plaza main event, this years duck race will also be preceded by a 5K run. The 5K race is expected to conclude by approximately 10:30 a.m. Although no road closures will occur, while the race is traveling through town, residents and motorists may experience some minor traffic delays associated with the event. Residents are asked to alter any travel plans accordingly, allowing extra time for any possible delays, and seek alternate routes around the area wherever possible. The police department also asks motorists traveling to destinations in the immediate vicinity and through the area during the hours of the event to drive carefully and be mindful of traffic control personnel. The duck race event will again be held within Parker Harding Plaza and will necessitate a reconfiguration of the normal traffic flow through the lot in order to accommodate the attractions. Officers will be on hand to assist with traffic flow, however motorists should expect increased pedestrian traffic, as well as traffic delays associated with the event in the downtown area throughout the morning and afternoon. / Greenwich Police Department GREENWICH A motorist who allegedly fled from officers was later captured on foot in central Greenwich, police said. An officer attempted to pull over a 2017 Kia Forte that was observed to be operating erratically on Greenwich Avenue on Friday evening, police said. But the driver sped off, police said. The challenges for Canadas homebuyers will be the focus when mortgage professionals meet with officials in Ottawa this week. Mortgage Professionals Canada will be making the case for changes to federal mortgage eligibility and financing laws and their impact on Canadians and the economy. "Canadians, especially younger and new Canadians, have found it increasingly difficult to buy a home as a result of recent federal regulations," said Paul Taylor, President and CEO of MPC. "As we continue to say, the current regulatory framework is decreasing competition and increasing costs, and ultimately reducing accessibility for consumers." MPC advocates will be providing officials with industry knowledge on how a path can be created to help first-time buyers and others struggling with the cost of homebuying. "We ask that the federal government listen to Canadians, and read the research illustrating how current regulations are preventing many Canadians from achieving their dream of homeownership," said Claude Girard, MPC Board Member. "We agree on the first steps to fixing housing access in Canada: adjust the stress test to an appropriate level and allow the mortgage industry to offer more accessible products, in order to help those who want to become homeowners achieve their Canadian dream." OTTAWA - Canada has fired the starting gun on the race to ratify the new North American free-trade pact but the United States is setting the pace. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA - Canada has fired the starting gun on the race to ratify the new North American free-trade pact but the United States is setting the pace. When it comes to approving the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says Ottawa intends to align itself "very much" with the time frame of the U.S. Congress, an institution that finds itself riven by partisan rancour, thanks in large part to Donald Trump's divisive style of leadership. And with fewer than 20 possible sitting days left in the parliamentary calendar before the House of Commons rises for the summer, it remains an open question whether the agreement will be ratified in Ottawa before voters go the polls in October. "We're looking forward to having great conversations as we move forward with the ratification process," Trudeau said Tuesday before his weekly cabinet meeting. "We're going to be aligning ourselves very much with the pace of the American administration ... the deal, as it is, is a good deal for Canadians, it's a great deal for people across the country, and we're going to keep moving forward." Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland, who tabled a motion Monday in the House of Commons to begin the ratification process, said since the original NAFTA remains in full force, there's no rush to replace it with the deal the Americans call USMCA, Canada calls CUSMA and Mexico calls T-MEC. Freeland, who briefed cabinet members on her plans, said other brand-new trade deals that started from scratch, such as Canada's agreement with the European Union or the Trans-Pacific Partnership, required quicker action to ensure the economic benefits were promptly realized. Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland speaks with Steve Verheul, Canada's chief negotiator for NAFTA, prior to appearing before the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development in Ottawa, Tuesday May 28, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld "With those deals, there was an urgency to ratification," she said as David MacNaughton, Canada's ambassador to the U.S., stood alongside. "As Canadians appreciate, we have a trade deal already in North America it's called NAFTA. So we have those benefits today." On May 17, the U.S. agreed to what Freeland calls a "full lift" of punitive tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, paving the way for Canada to begin the process of ratifying the agreement, which was reached late last September after months of difficult and often tense negotiations between all three countries. However, with the Democrats in control of the House of Representatives and warring daily with the Trump White House, ratification remains far from a foregone conclusion, although U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer has been courting their support and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been sending encouraging signals in recent weeks. 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. MacNaughton, ever the optimist, said he believes Congress could indeed ratify the deal sooner rather than later. "There is still, I think, a reasonable chance that the U.S. Congress will pass this deal before the summer recess at the end of July," he said. "We want to be in a position where we can move in tandem with Mexico and the U.S. on this deal." On Thursday, U.S. Vice-President Mike Pence is scheduled to visit Ottawa, where he's expected to meet with Trudeau and Freeland to discuss the legislative way forward on the agreement, which business leaders in Canada are anxious to see come into effect. In a letter to be released publicly Wednesday, a number of prominent business lobby groups are encouraging Trudeau to begin preparing for the new trading landscape the new NAFTA promises to foster. "Even before the agreement is fully ratified, there are opportunities for Canada, the United States and Mexico to collaborate in pursuit of a more productive and mutually beneficial trilateral relationship," says the letter, which counts the Business Council of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Federation of Independent Business among its signatories. "For example, we would encourage all three governments to work together to enhance North American competitiveness and good regulatory practices as outlined in the agreement by establishing committees in each area to promote economic growth and strengthen regulatory co-operation." After more than a decade of rapid growth, Chinese travel to the U.S. is falling. And that has cities, malls and other tourist spots scrambling to reverse the trend. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 27/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. FILE - In this March 23, 2017 photo a pop-up map, left, a city guide, center, and an activities guide, right, all with Chinese translation, rest in a room at the Sheraton Boston Hotel in Boston. Travel from China to the U.S. fell 4.6 percent in the first 10 months of 2018 compared to the same period the prior year, according to U.S. government data. The government hasnt released full-year figures yet, but if the trend holds, it will be the first time since 2003 that Chinese travel to the U.S. fell from the prior year.. (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File) After more than a decade of rapid growth, Chinese travel to the U.S. is falling. And that has cities, malls and other tourist spots scrambling to reverse the trend. Travel from China to the U.S. fell 5.7% in 2018 to 2.9 million visitors, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office, which collects data from U.S. Customs forms. It was the first time since 2003 that Chinese travel to the U.S. slipped from the prior year. Friction between the U.S. and China is one reason for the slowdown. The Trump administration first imposed tariffs on Chinese solar panels and washing machines in January 2018, and the trade war has escalated from there. The U.S. now has a 25% tariff on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports, while China has retaliated with tariffs on $60 billion of U.S. imports. Last summer, China issued a travel warning for the U.S., telling its citizens to beware of shootings, robberies and high costs for medical care. The U.S. shot back with its own warning about travel to China. Wang Haixia, who works at an international trade company in Beijing, travelled to the U.S. in May for her sister's graduation. She and her family planned to spend 10 days in Illinois and New York. Wang says she might have stayed longer but doesn't want to contribute to the U.S. economy amid the trade war. "I cannot cancel this trip because I promised my sister I would go to her commencement," she said. "My relatives will contribute more than 100,000 yuan to America just staying for 10 days, and that's enough." FILE - In this Aug. 25, 2015, file photo two children visiting from China play on Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. Travel from China to the U.S. fell 4.6 percent in the first 10 months of 2018 compared to the same period the prior year, according to U.S. government data. The government hasnt released full-year figures yet, but if the trend holds, it will be the first time since 2003 that Chinese travel to the U.S. fell from the prior year.. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File) There are other reasons behind the slowdown. Economic uncertainty in China has travellers at the lower end of the market vacationing closer to home, says Wolfgang Georg Arlt, director of the Chinese Outbound Tourism Research Institute, which found that 56% of travellers leaving China in the last three months of 2018 went to Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan compared with 50% in 2017. Those who do travel farther are seeking out more exotic destinations like Croatia, Morocco and Nepal. Chinese travel to the U.S. had already been moderating from its breakneck pace earlier this decade. In 2000, 249,000 Chinese visited the U.S. That tripled to 802,000 by 2010, then tripled again by 2015, in part because of higher incomes, better long-haul flight connections and an easing of visa restrictions, according to McKinsey, the consulting firm. The U.S. welcomed more than 3 million Chinese visitors in 2016 and 2017. But year-over-year growth edged up just 4% in 2017, the slowest pace in more than a decade. Most industry-watchers agree that any downturn is temporary, since China's middle class will only continue to expand. The U.S. government forecasts Chinese tourism will grow 2% this year to 3.3 million visitors, and will reach 4.1 million visitors in 2023. "Even if the Chinese economy cools, it's still going to continue to be a very good source of growth for the travel industry," said David Huether, senior vice-president of research for the U.S. Travel Association. In general, international travel to the U.S. has been declining. Overall data for 2018 hasn't been released yet, but international travel fell 2% in 2016 and was flat in 2017. But because China commands some of the highest tourism traffic to the U.S., any falloff will be felt by destinations that have come to rely on Chinese spending power. In 2017, the country had the fifth highest number of U.S.-bound tourists, behind Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Japan. Ten years earlier, China wasn't even on the top 10 list, falling behind countries like Germany, France, South Korea and Australia, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office. China didn't crack the top 10 list until 2011 and has been climbing ever since. Spending by Chinese visitors which doesn't include students ballooned more than 600% between 2008 and 2016, to nearly $18.9 billion. In 2017, that fell by 1% to $18.8 billion, or about 12% of overall tourism spending. To hold onto those dollars, experts say the tourism industry must do more to keep up with Chinese travellers and their changing needs. Larry Yu, a professor of hospitality management at George Washington University, notes that Chinese tourists particularly younger ones are increasingly planning trips using social media apps like WeChat and are less likely to book through big tour groups. They have also rapidly adopted smartphone-based payment systems. Destinations should invest in those technologies now if they want to continue attracting Chinese tourists, says David Becker, former CEO of Attract China, a New York-based travel consultancy. "A lot of companies looked at the Chinese market as easy money, but we have to be relevant to the Chinese," Becker said. Attract China, for instance, has helped luxury stores in Manhattan incorporate Jeenie, a live translation app, and add Alipay and WeChat Pay for mobile payments. Others have also been stepping up their efforts. The Beverly Center mall in Los Angeles caters to both busloads of Chinese tourists and mid-size groups. But now it also focuses on small groups of less than 10 VIP shoppers, says Susan Vance, the mall's marketing and sponsorship director. The mall has also pushed stores to offer China UnionPay, a digital payment service. More than 100 stores now have it, Vance says, up from three in 2014. 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. Tourism officials are also catching onto WeChat. In late 2017, Washington D.C. became the first U.S. city to launch an interactive guide in the app. Chinese travellers can use it to get directions to attractions, access audio tours in Mandarin and find dining and shopping. The city's marketing office has one staff member dedicated to WeChat. Washington also recently launched a Welcome China program that teaches hotels, restaurants and other venues about Chinese customs and encourages them to offer things like Chinese-language menus or in-room slippers. Forty-four hotels and a handful of restaurants have signed on. Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC, the city's marketing office, said the number of Chinese tourists visiting Washington doubled in the last five years before falling slightly in 2017. But Ferguson, who travelled to China last month to meet with tourism officials, said there's still significant interest in travel to the U.S. "We're beefing up our efforts because we see there's so much potential for growth," he said. ___ Durbin reported from Detroit. AP Retail Writer Anne D'Innocenzio in New York. CALGARY - Husky Energy Inc. is slowing its capital spending on western Canadian projects over the next five years to allow downstream capacity to catch up with oil production as pipeline constraints continue to impede the industry's ability to get oil out of Canada. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Husky Energy logo is shown at the company's annual meeting in Calgary, Alta., on May 5, 2017. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh CALGARY - Husky Energy Inc. is slowing its capital spending on western Canadian projects over the next five years to allow downstream capacity to catch up with oil production as pipeline constraints continue to impede the industry's ability to get oil out of Canada. Average annual capital spending will fall to $3.15 billion under a new five-year plan unveiled Tuesday, down 10 per cent from about $3.5 billion per year under its 2018-22 plan released a year ago. Despite a $1.7-billion total capital investment reduction over the five-year period, Husky expects free cash flow before dividends to add up to a total of $8.7 billion based on a flat US$60 West Texas Intermediate price. "The biggest changes were driven by our desire to focus the business on generating higher levels of free cash flows over the plan," said CEO Rob Peabody on a webcast from the company's investor day in Toronto. "This was achieved by reducing the spending and growth in our Western Canada resource play business and pacing our thermal production growth in light of current production quotas imposed by the Alberta government and basin egress issues." He added excess cash is earmarked for higher shareholder dividends. An example of the investment slowdown is in Husky's rollout of cookie-cutter 10,000-barrel-per-day steam-driven oilsands projects near Lloydminster, Sask., chief operating officer Rob Symonds said on the call. Last year, the company said it would aim to complete two projects per year the pace has now been reduced to three projects every two years, he said, noting one new project will be on stream later in 2019 and five more are planned by the end of 2023. Some of the savings will also come from Husky's operations in Indonesia, where regulatory issues have resulted in a one-year delay in its shallow water offshore Madura Strait gas project, the company noted. Meanwhile, Husky will increase by later this year the heavy oil throughput capacity at its Lima, Ohio, refinery by 30,000 bpd to allow more western Canadian oil to displace lighter oil feedstock. It is planning a minor expansion of its Lloydminster heavy oil upgrader for 2020 and expects to have its Superior, Wis., refinery, heavily damaged in a fire last year, to be rebuilt and running at full capacity by 2021. The Calgary-based company controlled by Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-Shing says it will grow production by about 100,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day over the five years to between 400,000 and 415,000 boe/d despite the lower spending. In response to an analyst question, Peabody conceded on the webcast that the Jackfish oilsands project being marketed by Oklahoma City-based Devon Energy Corp. would likely fit into Husky's "integrated corridor" business plan but he wouldn't say if the company is interested in making an offer. 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. Earlier this year, Husky dropped a hostile bid for oilsands rival MEG Energy Corp. after falling just short of the needed two-thirds shareholder support. Husky's plan to sell its small Prince George, B.C., refinery and retail gas station network is attracting strong interest, Peabody said, adding he hopes a deal will be concluded by year-end although it may be delayed if it requires competition regulator approvals. In December, Husky took $300 million out of its 2019 capital spending budget to account for the impact of Alberta oil production quotas and lower global oil prices. It says it still expects to record capital spending of between $3.3 billion and $3.5 billion this year to take average production to between 290,000 and 305,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. Follow @HealingSlowly on Twitter. Companies in this story: (TSX:HSE) OTTAWA - The new North American free trade agreement will beat its June legislative deadline and be ratified by Parliament, Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland predicted Monday, but she acknowledged that Canada can't bring the new deal into force by itself. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 27/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA - The new North American free trade agreement will beat its June legislative deadline and be ratified by Parliament, Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland predicted Monday, but she acknowledged that Canada can't bring the new deal into force by itself. The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement USMCA, or CUSMA to Canadian officials requires the ratification of all three countries, which is why the federal government is collaborating so closely with its other two partners, she said after question period. Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, meets with steel executives to discuss the elimination of tariffs on steel and aluminum and the new version of NAFTA in Toronto on Friday, May 24, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Tijana Martin "I am confident we will be successful moving forward," said Freeland, who kicked off the process Monday by tabling a so-called ways and means motion in the House of Commons. "Of course, the entry into force of this agreement does not depend solely on Canada." In the politically tumultuous U.S., it remains an open question at the moment whether Congress can muster progress on anything, including the new continental trade pact and a plan to unleash infrastructure spending to fix crumbling American bridges and roads. President Donald Trump and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the Democrat who controls the agenda in the House of Representatives, are locked in a bitter battle. Pelosi has questioned Trump's fitness for office, while he has branded her "crazy" and incapable of understanding the complexities of the agreement. 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 Thursday, U.S. Vice-President Mike Pence will be in Ottawa, where he is expected to exchange views with Freeland and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the legislative way forward in their two countries. Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland responds to a question during Question Period in the House of Commons Monday May 27, 2019 in Ottawa. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld "It will be interesting for us to hear from Vice-President Pence about the U.S. domestic ratification process," Freeland said, adding that Canada will move forward in tandem with the U.S. as much as possible in order to get the deal approved. She also said last week's"full lift" of the U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs on Canadian imports has paved the way for formal approval of the new deal, and that she plans to brief the federal cabinet soon on plans to table the necessary ratification bill. Less than two weeks ago, Freeland hosted her Mexican counterparts in Toronto where they discussed how Canada and Mexico can collaborate on "the very ambitious labour reforms that Mexico has now passed, which are an important part of the new NAFTA." Canada and the U.S. pushed Mexico to improve workers' rights during the rocky NAFTA renegotiation, which culminated in a deal late last September, because they wanted to level the playing field between their workers and lower-paid Mexican workers, especially in the auto sector. Last month, Mexico's lower house of Congress approved a reform of labour law that aims to ensure workers can freely vote for their union representation and contracts. CALGARY - TC Energy Corp. has signed a deal to sell an 85 per cent stake in its Northern Courier Pipeline to Alberta Investment Management Corp. for roughly $1.15 billion. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. CALGARY - TC Energy Corp. has signed a deal to sell an 85 per cent stake in its Northern Courier Pipeline to Alberta Investment Management Corp. for roughly $1.15 billion. The company formerly known as TransCanada says the 90 kilometre pipeline transports bitumen and diluent between the Fort Hills mine site in northern Alberta and Suncor Energy's terminal north of Fort McMurray, Alta. 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. TransCanada president and CEO Russ Girling addresses the company's annual meeting after shareholders approved a name change to TC Energy in Calgary on May 3, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh TC Energy will retain a 15 per cent stake and remain the operator of the pipeline. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter. TC Energy chief executive Russ Girling says the sale helps the company's efforts to fund its capital program. The company recently completed the sale of its Coolidge Generating Station in Arizona to Salt River Project Agriculture Improvement and Power District. Companies in this story: (TSX:TRP, TSX:SU) Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version stated that TC Energy sold its Coolidge Generating Station to a subsidiary of Southwest Generation Operating Co. LLC. OTTAWA - A panel of international politicians vented anger at Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg on Tuesday after the Facebook executives snubbed their summons to appear at the international grand committee on big data, privacy and democracy in Ottawa. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Jim Balsillie, Council of Canadian Innovators, arrives to appear as a witness at a Commons privacy and ethics committee in Ottawa on May 10, 2018. A Canadian high-tech pioneer says a "toxic" social media business model is a threat to democracy. Jim Balsillie, the retired chief executive of Research In Motion, which invented the Blackberry smart phone, offers that grim warning in testimony today before the international grand committee on big data, privacy and democracy. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick OTTAWA - A panel of international politicians vented anger at Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg on Tuesday after the Facebook executives snubbed their summons to appear at the international grand committee on big data, privacy and democracy in Ottawa. The committee's chair, Conservative MP Bob Zimmer, called it "abhorrent" the two did not appear, and he closed a marathon session of testimony by telling the two Facebook employees who were sent in their place that it was "shameful" their bosses didn't show up. The committee, comprising politicians from Canada, Britain, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, France, Ireland, Latvia, St. Lucia, Ecuador and Singapore, is examining the role of internet giants in safeguarding privacy and democratic rights. Zuckerberg and Sandberg were called to testify but did not appear. Representatives of Twitter and Google also testified, but it was Facebook's two corporate pinch-hitters who drew the wrath of committee members. Their collective frustration grew as Kevin Chan and Neil Potts, Facebook global policy directors, separated by two empty chairs bearing Zuckerberg and Sandberg's names, were grilled about past company conduct, including its decision this week to permit postings of a doctored video meant to portray U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as slurring her words, addled or possibly drunk. The video was labelled false, and users were made aware of that classification, Potts said. "This sets a very dangerous precedent," said British MP Damian Collins, the committee's co-chair. Edwin Tong, a Singapore MP, clashed with Potts over how Facebook responded to postings from last fall that heralded the violence that came to pass in the Easter Sunday suicide-bomb attacks on three churches in Sri Lanka that left 250 dead. Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics Chair Bob Zimmer and members of the International Grand Committee on Big Data, Privacy and Democracy listen to a question from media during a news conference in Ottawa, Tuesday, May 28, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld "Let me suggest to you that you don't remove it because such content, being sensational, inciting fear, violence, hatred, conspiracy theories ... is what drives eyeballs to your platform this is what drives users to your platforms, and that is the engine room of your profit mechanism," said Tong. Potts shot back: "Mr. Tong, I reject the premise." Some MPs questioned why Zuckerberg meets world leaders behind closed doors, but chooses to send other officials from his company to field the public questions of lawmakers at the committee. His and Sandberg's absence on Tuesday has only fuelled skepticism about Facebook's promises to operate in a transparent manner. New Democrat Charlie Angus said the pair's absence showed disrespect to legislators around the world. "Facebook has serious responsibilities in terms of the misuse of the platform that has led to mass killings in Myanmar, the undermining of electoral systems around the world, the attack on private rights and citizen rights," he said. "Mr. Zuckerberg has stated his willingness to work with legislators but he seems to blow us off whenever it seems we want to ask him questions." The MPs, led by Angus, voted to serve a summons on the pair, compelling them to appear before the group the next time either sets foot on Canadian soil. "As soon as they step foot either Mr. Zuckerberg or Ms. Sandberg into our country they will be served and expected to appear before our committee," said Zimmer. If they refuse, he added, they will be held in contempt. It was not clear exactly what consequences that might have. Jim Balsillie, the former chief executive of Research In Motion, which invented the BlackBerry smartphone, testified earlier Tuesday that a "toxic" social media business model is a threat to democracy. Balsillie also offered a thinly veiled criticism of Zuckerberg and Sandberg for not responding to the committee's summons to testify. "By displacing the print and broadcast media in influencing public opinion, technology is becoming the new fourth estate. In our system of checks and balances, this makes technology co-equal with the executive, the legislative, and the judiciary," he said. "When this new fourth estate declines to appear before this committee as Silicon Valley executives are currently doing it is symbolically asserting this aspirational co-equal status ... The work of this international grand committee is a vital first step towards redress of this untenable current situation." Balsillie, now the chair of the Ontario-based Centre for International Governance Innovation, said technology, if left unchecked, will displace print and broadcast media, and he urged a panel of politicians to impose restrictions on big internet companies. "Social media's toxicity is not a bug it's a feature," he told the committee, kicking off the second of three days of meetings in Ottawa aimed at figuring out how best to protect citizens' privacy and democratic fairness in the age of social media. 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. Federal privacy commissioner Daniel Therrien told the committee that "freedom and democracy cannot exist without privacy and the protection of our personal information." Therrien last month concluded that Facebook violated Canadian privacy laws by failing to ensure political consultancy Cambridge Analytica got clear consent to use individuals personal information. He is going to court to force Facebook to comply with privacy laws. Cambridge Analytica allegedly gained improper access to some 87 million Facebook users' personal information and used it to try to influence the outcome of the 2016 U.S. presidential election and the Brexit referendum in the U.K. Therrien said the scandal "reminded citizens that privacy is a fundamental right and a necessary precondition for the exercise of other fundamental rights, including democracy." Ellen Weintraub, chair of the U.S. Federal Election Commission, recounted the "chilling" evidence of sweeping and systemic Russian interference in the 2016 American election, hacking into computer systems and using fake news and phoney social media accounts to bolster Donald Trump's campaign, exacerbate societal divisions and undermine Americans' faith in democracy. "Facebook's originating philosophy of 'move fast and break things,' cooked up 16 years ago in a college dorm room, has breathtaking consequences when the thing they're breaking is our democracies themselves," she said. This week's meeting of the grand committee the second since last year's inaugural gathering in Britain is being hosted by the House of Commons committee on access to information, privacy and ethics. PREMIER Brian Pallister touched down Monday in Churchill, his first visit to the polar bear capital since taking office three years ago. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 27/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. PREMIER Brian Pallister touched down Monday in Churchill, his first visit to the polar bear capital since taking office three years ago. "People were receptive; they were glad that the premier finally made it to Churchill," said Dave Daley, head of the Churchill Chamber of Commerce. BORIS MINKEVICH / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Brian Pallister made his first visit to Churchill, MB since becoming premier. The Manitoba premier spent four hours visiting the town of roughly 850, meeting with local officials and announcing a road upgrade. "Its always great to have the premier in your community, to see its potential firsthand," said Mayor Mike Spence, adding he discussed expanding the use of the local hospital, as well as how local jobs fit into the PCs Look North development strategy. Spence and others have been critical of the Pallister government for not visiting the town after its May 2017 railway washout, which cut off its land link to the south until November 2018. Daley said the chamber had an hour-long discussion with the premier, who took questions. "It wasnt a contentious visit. I think everyone was interested to get a feel of who he was." Pallister announced provincial support for upgrading the gravel road that links numerous tourism spots, Spence said. Existing funding is upgrading the towns civil centre, and helping build the University of Manitobas marine observatory. The premiers visit focused on tourism an industry the province and Ottawa are both ponying up cash to develop in Manitoba. "Finally, theyre realizing that theres huge business," said Daley, who runs a dog-sledding company. "Its not just willy-nilly." Locals raised objections to the closure of the provincially owned Liquor Mart, which will be replaced by a section of the towns Northern grocery store in a month. Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries Corp. has said the move is part of a province-wide exercise, and profits have been decreasing as Nunavut gets its own liquor sales off the ground. Daley and others argue the town needs to hold onto higher-paid, public-sector jobs as the port gets on its feet. 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 mayor also said the cost of gas and transporting goods along the repaired railway remains high. Local tourism operators have complained provincial contractors often stay in Manitoba Housing units that havent been occupied by subsidized tenants, instead of having them support local hotels. The premier "didnt seem happy about that situation," Daley claimed. Pallister has hinted at calling an election before the scheduled October 2020 vote, possibly in September. In 2016, 33 of the towns 230 cast ballots went to the PC candidate in the riding, with two-thirds of those voters siding with the NDP. dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca The jury that will decide whether a 46-year-old man is guilty of killing his 42-year-old girlfriend and ordering the disposal of her body in a barrel outside a suburban Winnipeg home has been urged to be suspicious about the testimonies of several women who said the accused killer was responsible. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The jury that will decide whether a 46-year-old man is guilty of killing his 42-year-old girlfriend and ordering the disposal of her body in a barrel outside a suburban Winnipeg home has been urged to be suspicious about the testimonies of several women who said the accused killer was responsible. Perez Cleveland has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder in the August 2016 death of Jennifer Barrett. Jennifer Barrett was one of five women in a relationship with Perez Cleveland when she was murdered in 2016. (Facebook) Cleveland's defence lawyer, Steven Brennan, argued the jury should have reasonable doubt about Cleveland's guilt. He suggested one of the women who testified could have been responsible for the assaults Barrett suffered, and urged jurors to think carefully about what they've been told over the course of the Court of Queen's Bench trial. "This case boils down to how much faith, trust and confidence you have in these three women, principal witnesses... what can you make of their evidence?" he asked jurors during his final arguments. "Collusion certainly appears likely." Barrett, a former nurse, was one of five women who was in an open relationship with Cleveland and living with him in a two-storey home at 38 Forest Lake Dr., in Waverley Heights, along with his adult daughter. Barrett's body was discovered in a steel barrel beside the house on Dec. 1, 2016, after Cleveland and the women had already abandoned the property. Crown prosecutors called to the witness stand four other women who were in the house when Barrett died. All of them offered "eerily similar" testimony detailing the control, abuse and violent torture Cleveland inflicted upon them, Crown prosecutor Breta Passler told jurors during her closing arguments Tuesday. Perez Cleveland is on trial for first-degree murder in connection to the death of Jennifer Barrett. (Winnipeg Police Service) She argued Cleveland is guilty of first-degree murder because he "physically and psychologically" confined Barrett to the home, beat her for days in the basement and then ordered two of the women to clean up the crime scene and get rid of Barrett's body. His motive was jealousy because Cleveland believed Barrett was cheating on him even though it wouldn't have been possible for her to have an affair while she was under Cleveland's control, Passler told jurors. An autopsy couldn't determine how Barrett died, but one of the women, Jessica Reid, testified she was in the basement when Cleveland was beating Barrett behind a curtain. Reid said she saw Barrett's final moments alive, tried to give her CPR and saw Cleveland use a Taser on her in an effort to revive her. "We say that even if the body of Jennifer Barrett had never been discovered, the evidence you heard is sufficient to prove murder," Passler told the jury. The defence's argument that it could have been one of Cleveland's other victims who killed Barrett "makes no sense," Passler argued. Instead, in his rage, Cleveland "simply did not care whether she died or not." "We say those beatings were not accidental," Passler said. "Her death could not have been unexpected." 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 defence argued it could have been Reid, not Cleveland, who killed Barrett. Brennan didn't suggest Reid should have been charged with murder, but said jurors should have a reasonable doubt about Cleveland's guilt. The basement of 38 Forest Lake Dr. where Jennifer Barrett was allegedly beaten to death. (Court of Queen's Bench) "You may suspect, fairly, I think, that he's not a nice person. There may be some truth to the allegations that he may be controlling, or that he may be abusive, but that does not mean he murdered Jennifer Barrett," Brennan told jurors. If the jury believes Cleveland was involved in Barrett's death, Brennan argued, "I say this is no more than an unintentional killing." Cleveland could be convicted of manslaughter if the jury believes he killed Barrett by accident, he said. Barrett had known Cleveland for several years and they had a child together. Three years before she died, while she was living with Cleveland and the other women in B.C., Barrett signed a handwritten contract that referred to her as a "submissive" and to Cleveland as her "master." Chief Justice Glenn Joyal is set to give jurors legal instructions Wednesday afternoon before their deliberations begin. katie.may@freepress.mb.ca Electricity rates will rise by 2.5 per cent for most Manitobans effective June 1, the Public Utilities Board has determined. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Electricity rates will rise by 2.5 per cent for most Manitobans effective June 1, the Public Utilities Board has determined. However, Manitoba Hydro will not have access to the increased revenues right away. In a 50-page ruling Tuesday, the PUB ordered Hydro to place all revenues from the rate hike into a deferral account to pay for capital projects currently under construction. It said the deferral account will partially mitigate future rate hikes that will be required when new projects, such as the $8.7-billion Keeyask generating station, come into service. Manitoba Hydro had asked for a 3.5 per cent increase in electricity rates, after receiving a 3.5 per cent hike last June, but the Crown corporation does not need the increased revenue for its 2019-20 operations, the PUB said. The PUB anticipates the 2.5 per cent rate increase will add $2.34 to the monthly bill of a residential customer (without electric space heating), using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month. Manitoba Hydro had no immediate comment on the ruling. "We continue to review and understand it," spokesman Bruce Owen said. Manitoba Hydro initially requested last fall it be granted a 3.5 per cent increase for all customer classes effective April 1, 2019. At the time, the Crown corporation was projecting a net loss of $28 million for the 2019-20 fiscal year. However, in mid-February, Hydro filed a revised forecast that projected a profit of $64 million, without a rate increase. With its requested 3.5 per cent increase effective June 1, net income for 2019-20 was projected to climb to $115 million. "A rate increase at the level of 2.5 per cent with all revenues directed to a major capital project deferral account is just and reasonable," the PUB said. Byron Williams, a lawyer representing Winnipeg Harvest and the Manitoba division of the Consumers Association of Canada, said the bad news is consumers are facing yet another rate increase that is above inflation. The good news is the PUB sent a strong message to Hydro it needs to tighten its belt and not just leave consumers on the hook for the costs of major construction projects, some of which "are dramatically over budget," he said. Hydro projected its operation and administrative costs this fiscal year to be more than a half-billion dollars a year. The consumers coalition had argued during PUB rate-setting hearings those expenses be trimmed. The PUB agreed. 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. "By finding that Hydro's day-to-day expenditures should be $22-million lower and granting a 2.5 per cent increase instead of $3.5 per cent, the PUB sent a powerful message that Hydro needs to be more accountable for its budgets," Williams said. The PUB said it granted Hydro a rate increase to "enhance rate stability and predictability" in light of the upcoming in-service dates for major new capital projects. These include Keeyask, which could begin service as early as October 2020, and the proposed Manitoba-Minnesota transmission line scheduled to be completed in June 2020. Construction on the latter project has yet to begin, pending federal approval. A majority of the five-member PUB panel ruled there be no increase in rates for on-reserve First Nations residents or for "diesel zone residential" customers. Larry Ring, the lone dissenter, said he believes the PUB has the jurisdiction to create a lower-income customer class, but he believes the approach the board has taken "excludes too many vulnerable consumers." larry.kusch@freepress.mb.ca Mayor Brian Bowman says a lockout of Winnipeg Transit drivers is not on the table, even if the union representing them doesnt agree to the latest contract offer the city has sent its way. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 27/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Mayor Brian Bowman says a lockout of Winnipeg Transit drivers is not on the table, even if the union representing them doesnt agree to the latest contract offer the city has sent its way. "Im pleased that we havent had any lockouts or strikes since Ive been here. Weve negotiated some very difficult collective agreements with a number of our different collective bargaining units," Bowman said. "Its not something Im contemplating. I cant envision that we would lock out. Far too many people rely on transit every day... Its such an important service to our citizens. We have to keep our city moving." However, later in the day, the citys director of customer service and communications Felicia Wiltshire clarified that the city isnt contemplating a lockout "at this time." "The city is still hopeful that the (Amalgamated Transit Union local 1505) will accept the final contract that they are voting on this week," Wiltshire said in a written statement. "A lockout is not something the city is contemplating at this time, as we do not want to see any form of labour disruption that would interrupt transit service for the 170,000 riders that depend on the service daily." The latest contract offer by the city has been characterized as its "final offer" and the administration has suggested a strike could occur at any time if it is rejected by the union this week. 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. ATU president Aleem Chaudhary said the results of the vote on the proposed contract should be known by Friday. He also said he believes the two sides remain far apart on contract talks. "Its going to come to a head. I think theyre going to have to realize, the workplace issues Im talking about... the morale is so low down there and its not only because of the wages or benefits, its because of the treatment they get. Theres no respect given to them," he said. "Were just wasting time not discussing the issues. At this point I would say no, were still a long ways away (on a deal). We need to work harder." Chaudhary also said the union is not considering a strike at this time, since it doesnt want to inconvenience its ridership, adding if a strike action was called it would come as a "last resort." ryan.thorpe@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @rk_thorpe OTTAWA Federal bureaucrats tried to stall the release of details surrounding the Liberals surprise payment to Quebecers living near the main entry point for irregular asylum claimants, according to an internal document marked "secret." Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 27/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA Federal bureaucrats tried to stall the release of details surrounding the Liberals surprise payment to Quebecers living near the main entry point for irregular asylum claimants, according to an internal document marked "secret." Last November, Ottawa dished out tax-free stipends ranging from $2,500 to $25,000 (based on proximity) to roughly 45 homes, for the "inconvenience" of having more traffic and noise outside their front doors. No similar payment was made to Manitobans. Border Security Minister Bill Blair contrasted the thousands of people entering along Roxham Road in Quebec, where dozens of security personnel were stationed, to the more spread-out crossings near Emerson. Roxham Road in Quebec, where dozens of security personnel were stationed during the influx of irregular border crossers. In a document marked "secret," obtained through a freedom-of-information request, public servants recommended the Liberals not make any public statements nor media releases about the payments, "to minimize possible negative reactions," as well as risks. The payments came to light when residents contacted local media. At time, the Liberals refused to provide a ballpark figure of how much these expenses would cost, until they were finalized. In March, facing a formal request by Conservative MP Ted Falk, the Liberals produced an estimate of $405,000 in compensation, out of an original budget of $485,000. Previously, Falk argued residents of his Provencher riding also deserved cash, after having strangers knock at the doors in the middle of the night. Download Documents on asylum-seeker 'inconvenience'payments to Quebec residents Public servants estimated the cost of the Quebec payments in a July 20 memorandum, though the number is redacted, as are the "considerations and risks" of the compensation, because they were used to advise the federal cabinet. Public Safety Canada wrote Monday that Ottawa did not communicate about the payments outside the households involved because "concerns about privacy were paramount" in discussions with those residents, according to spokeswoman Zarah Malik. In the documents, bureaucrats noted ministers can make ex-gratia payments "only in extraordinary circumstances" and suggested stressing the "benevolent nature of this payment," as well as the fact Ottawa has given out "lesser payments for more extreme circumstances." 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. MIKAELA MACKENZIE/WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Bill Blair, Minister of Border Security and Organized Crime Reduction In letters to the beneficiaries, Public Safety Canada told Quebec households it had "an obligation to disclose the payments" in regular filings, but told the residents it would "seek an exemption to try and limit the scope of the information published," because some of the residents raised "concerns for privacy." To get the compensation, residents had to sign a release saying they "remise, release and forever discharge" Ottawa "from all actions, claims or demands." The release still allows them to sue "for personal injury or property damage." Blair told the Free Press last year no one had threatened to sue Ottawa, and the risk of lawsuits wasnt part of the rationale for the payments. He rejected Falks contention the Liberals made the payment to Quebecers and not Manitobans in order to shore up their electoral base. Records show the idea of making payments came about because "some residents are seeking financial support." The first email on the topic appeared July 13, prompting a series of meetings that culminated in the letters being sent out Nov. 22. dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca OTTAWA With abortion in the news and small parties wielding more power, social conservatives have their eyes set on Manitoba. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 27/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA With abortion in the news and small parties wielding more power, social conservatives have their eyes set on Manitoba. "A lot of people are starting to realize that the big parties have not addressed the issues," said Rod Taylor, head of the Christian Heritage Party. Taylor is in Manitoba this week, ahead of a fall federal election in which he plans to have a candidate in each of the province's ridings for the first time. The party was founded in 1987. Taylor agrees with the U.S. state of Alabamas recent ban on abortion, which includes cases of rape and incest. He also knows those policies will push voters away. "We think its important to speak the truth, even if societys not ready to hear it," he said in an interview. Since Alabama passed its restrictions this month, Liberal MPs have been claiming the Conservatives would reopen the debate in Canada especially when pressed on government scandals such as the SNC-Lavalin Group Inc. affair. Tory Leader Andrew Scheer has insisted he wouldnt change abortion laws if elected, citing a vote last August by party members to keep the existing legislation. Taylor predicts that will lead socially conservative Tories to exit the party, which had absorbed anti-abortion activists in the Reform and Alliance movements in 2003. "The idea that theyre going to change a party from within weve just seen that that isnt going to happen," he said. Taylor said MP Maxime Berniers decision to split from the Tories and start the Libertarian-minded Peoples Party of Canada "has stirred the pot deeply." He also noted Green parties have started holding influence in provincial legislatures. To him, Tory MPs such as Ted Falk of Provencher are a better fit in his party. (Falk yelled in Parliament a year ago that abortion was "not a right.") "Were expecting that the people of Manitoba are common-sense people who want the same things we want," Taylor said He noted Manitoba is the sole province that explicitly protects a doctors right not to participate in medically assisted deaths. Even if no CHP candidates win this term, supporters "will send a message to the other parties" about the pro-life agenda, Taylor argues, even if it means splitting the vote at the benefit of Liberal candidates. Taylor said his party would restrict all forms of abortion unless it would prevent the mother or childs death, jailing doctors who perform the procedure. He argues the controversial Alabama law goes too far in allowing physicians jail sentences to reach up to 99 years but he says exemptions for rape and incest are unreasonable. "It is not the childs fault that the mother was raped, but we do need to do something about rape," he said, suggesting promoting abstinence and respect for women could prevent the "horrendous" crime. 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. This week, Taylor will be visiting supporters at Brandon University and the towns of Roblin, Boissevain and Pilot Mound. On Friday, hell hold a public meeting in Carman, a town with a large Reformist population. The most recent federal filings show between 2015 and 2017, the party raised $71,000 from Manitoba donors, $30,400 of which has come from residents of Carman. During this same time period, Manitobans donated $110,000 to the Green party. Comparable data to Berniers party is not yet available. The partys highest-ever vote result in Manitoba came in its first run, when candidate Don Esler took 5.56 per cent of votes in the former Lisgar-Marquette riding. dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca A governor who fled Somalia for his life was granted refugee protection on the same day as his Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada hearing Monday. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 27/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A governor who fled Somalia for his life was granted refugee protection on the same day as his Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada hearing Monday. "I am appreciating the Canadian government and the opportunity I was given," Noor Ahmed Hassan said through an interpreter after board member Nick Bower in Vancouver told him via videoconference that he was granted refugee protection. "I was excited," said Hassan who was named governor of the Galguduud region of Somalia in September 2017 putting him in the crosshairs of al-Shabaab terrorists and opposition militia. After surviving decades of civil war and terror attacks including Somalias largest in October 2017 that killed nearly 600 people at Mogadishus Safari Hotel the greatest threat to his life was being appointed to lead one of the countrys 18 administrative regions. Like the slain governor (Mohamed Dahir Ali Elmi) he was to replace, Hassan became a target for al-Shabaab terrorists trying to overrun the country, as well as an armed opposition. On Monday, he said he wasnt surprised that he was recognized as a bona fide refugee. "I was expecting to be accepted because there was a lot of evidence and documents," said Hassan, 47. "I was prepared." 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. He had links to news coverage and media interviews from his time in regional government in Somalia, as well as reports about what happened to the governor he replaced. Hassan was held hostage and beaten by opposition militia before making a refugee claim in Canada after attending a conference in Las Vegas on a visitors visa a year ago. "When you are governor of a region like this gentleman is, youre an endangered species," said Winnipeg immigration lawyer Bashir Khan, who represented Hassan at his refugee protection hearing. "The refugee convention of 1951 was written with governors like this in mind who would come to Manitoba (seeking protection)," Khan said. "Al -Shabaab will attack anyone who can make a difference. Their job is to destabilize the Somali state." Hassan said hes planning to take English-language classes and apply for permanent residence and apply for his wife and dependant children who are in an undisclosed location in Somalia so they can join him in Canada. "They are very much happy," he said of the news he shared with his family Monday. "This was the hope theyve been waiting for." carol.sanders@freepress.mb.ca A Winnipeg man has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for a pair of residential drive-by shootings tied to the city's drug trade. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 27/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A Winnipeg man has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for a pair of residential drive-by shootings tied to the city's drug trade. Kyal Brown, 21, previously pleaded guilty to two counts of discharging a firearm with intent and other weapons offences in the July 21, 2018 shootings. Provincial court Judge Sandra Chapman ruled an appropriate sentence for the offences was 16 years, but said it would be too "crushing" for an offender of Brown's age, noting the longest sentence he had served to date was seven months. "I do not think at this young age society should give up on Mr. Brown," Chapman said. According to an agreed statement of facts provided to court, Brown and co-accused Brad Wayne Baxter were members of the same street gang and targeted residents in the two homes because of their involvement in the drug trade Court heard a female accused drove Brown and Baxter to an apartment in the 300 block of Blake Street shortly before 3 a.m. when Brown fired a sawed-off shotgun into the window of a one-bedroom suite, injuring three of five occupants. 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. A resident of the suite, a sex-trade worker, later told police her home was frequented by drug users and that she had previously rejected a request by Brown and Baxter to sell drugs from the apartment. Thirty minutes later, Brown and Baxter were driven to an apartment in the 600 block of Cavalier Drive where Baxter fired a shot through a bedroom window, missing the male and female occupants. In a subsequent statement to police, Baxter identified another male as his target in the shooting. Court heard a video live streamed to Facebook showed the three disguised accused as they were in transit between shootings. The video showed a shotgun that has never been recovered. Police arrested Brown three days later at a College Avenue residence and recovered two sawed-off firearms, ammunition and stolen identification. Brown received credit for time served, reducing his remaining sentence to just over 11 1/2 years. Baxter is still awaiting sentencing. A total damage award totalling more than $456,000 for defaming a local surgeon on social media will serve as a stiff warning for freelance journalists and bloggers to be careful what they write. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 27/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A total damage award totalling more than $456,000 for defaming a local surgeon on social media will serve as a stiff warning for freelance journalists and bloggers to be careful what they write. Justice Deborah McCawley of Manitoba Court of Queens Bench ruled earlier this month that Jared Shapira, who usually writes articles about mens style and grooming, premium spirits and cigars, and luxury goods and services, had conducted "a campaign of intimidation, harassment, defamation, blackmail and extortion" against a doctor at CancerCare Manitoba. "Hopefully this will be a clear message to Mr. Shapira, and to others, that there are consequences for such harmful actions," the judge said in a six-page written decision. "It is apparent that whatever the defendants motive was, it was malicious and designed to bring harm to (the doctor). It is difficult to think of any more serious accusations that could be made against him. "The fact that the defendant resorted to the use of social media to spread them is an aggravating factor for the court to consider." McCawley also made an order that Shapira take down any of the statements from his social media accounts. Its similar to the injunction order made last September by Queens Bench Justice Sadie Bond after hearing a request from CancerCare Manitoba. James Turner, a journalism instructor with Red River Colleges Creative Communications program, said the judges decision serves as a warning for people who arent working for an established media outlet. 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. "Theres lots of people who can call themselves journalists, but theres a certain amount of training and education to do the job in a certain way," Turner said. "We gather information, test whether it is credible... You cant print stuff you cant prove. "Any time you put something on social media and call it journalism, it should face some scrutiny just like other journalism. It is a bit of a warning to people who put stuff on social media to be careful because it could come back to cost you." A spokeswoman for CancerCare Manitoba said it would not be commenting about the decision. In a statement, Shapira said he is legally restricted from commenting as much as he would like about the matter. He said he is currently exploring his legal options. Shapira said he is a freelancer, but he is a member of various journalism organizations including the Canadian Association of Journalists and the National Writers Union. kevin.rollason@freepress.mb.ca Former Federal Bureau of Investigation director James Comey brought an optimistic message about the future of the United States to Winnipeg on Tuesday. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (945 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Former Federal Bureau of Investigation director James Comey brought an optimistic message about the future of the United States to Winnipeg on Tuesday. He directly referenced the tumultuous presidency of Donald Trump, who fired Comey in 2017 as the FBI investigated Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. federal election. "It must be depressing for those of you who live in Canada to look south and watch us, but I want to console you a little bit, in a weird way: we are going to be OK," said Comey, who added that the history of the United States has been "far more screwed up than this." "Somehow, American values, that ballast at the centre of our nation, always rights us," Comey told a crowd of nearly 700 in his keynote speech to the Western Canada Information Security Conference at the RBC Convention Centre. Comey, who served as deputy attorney general during the George W. Bush administration before being nominated for FBI director by president Barack Obama, compared Trump unfavourably to his White House predecessors in the speech that focused on leadership. Unlike Bush and Obama, Comey said, Trump lacks a key attribute for an effective leader: the confidence to have a sense of humour. "I have never seen Donald Trump laugh, ever," said Comey, who described that as "a sign of a leader who is deeply insecure." Comey said Trump lies so much people are becoming numb to it. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press) Comey, who penned the 2018 memoir A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies, and Leadership, sprinkled his address with self-deprecating humour, admitting to the crowd that it was "never one of my goals to be an unemployed celebrity." But during a subsequent Q&A session with TV personality Amber MacArthur, the ex-FBI director suggested he's motivated by a desire to defend the concept of objective truth in an age of politicized misinformation. "A president lies so much that we start becoming numb to it, and disregarding the central norm of our public life in the United States, that is, that we hold leaders accountable to the truth," 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. Bush and Obama also lied to the public during their terms, but they were tethered to the touchstone of truth, he said. "The danger we face today in the States is there's such a tidal wave of lies that it risks washing away that touchstone like a sand castle at the beach. So the rest of us just give up, we become numb to it," he said. Comey said he sometimes feels that apathy himself, but called it a mistake. "If there's goodness and I believe there is in this era it's all of us realizing that every one of us owns that touchstone (of truth), and must speak about it, stand up for it and defend it." solomon.israel@freepress.mb.ca @sol_israel Three Winnipeg councillors have agreed to cover the cost of a pilot project for Edmonton-style permit signs intended to better explain the details of a proposed development, compared to the small yellow markers currently used by city hall. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 27/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Three Winnipeg councillors have agreed to cover the cost of a pilot project for Edmonton-style permit signs intended to better explain the details of a proposed development, compared to the small yellow markers currently used by city hall. Prompted by a proposal from Coun. Kevin Klein, Couns. Janice Lukes and Sherri Rollins have agreed to join with Klein to use ward allowance funds on signage for three work sites (chosen by the councillors) to gauge public reception to the type used by the City of Edmonton. SUPPLIED PHOTO An example of permit development signs that are used in Edmonton. Some city councillors want to see Winnipeg adopt similar types of signs. Councillors Sherri Rollins and Janice Lukes have agreed to use their ward allowance funds to pay for similar signs on one property on a pilot basis, to gauge public feedback. "Its a small investment (on the councillors part) to actually see something getting done," Klein said. "Once we get the signs up, well be able to talk to people. Then well bring back the information we have." Klein said the signs applicants are now legally required to post on a property are difficult to notice and the information on them isnt always easily understood. "It might cover all the legal requirements but when people are reading it, theyre really not sure whats being proposed or whats being changed," Klein told reporters following Mondays meeting of the property and development committee. "This would clear that up for them." Complaints have persisted for years about the permit signs. In December 2016, councillors on the committee directed the administration to develop better signage and ways to communicate with the public, with a report due April 2017. The department was given several extensions and the report was eventually presented to the committee in September 2018. However, it stated details on the format for new signage would be contained in a subsequent report, which would not be ready until sometime in 2020. Klein said he didnt want to wait that long, and Lukes and Rollins agreed to work with a developer in their wards to post identical signs to those now being used in the Alberta capital. The Edmonton signs come in two sizes: 24 x 18 inches, or 4 x 4 feet. They are required for new residential structures, demolition and substantial exterior renovations in mature and established neighbourhoods. 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 signs have to be made of durable, weatherproof material and contain clear wording that identifies whats being proposed, along with a drawing of the project. Klein conceded local builders may not want to incur the additional costs of the larger signs, but added he believes it will make the process more transparent and remove confusion, which adds to delays in getting projects completed. "Clear communication will go a long way to improving the process and improving the relationship between builders and residents," Klein said. John Kiernan, director of the citys planning, property and development department, agreed the signs used by the City of Edmonton are easier to understand, adding similar signage is used by other Canadian municipalities. Kiernan said the city's traditional yellow notices will still be required on the three project sites chosen by the councillors. aldo.santin@freepress.mb.ca When industry wants science to say something, how does it do it? Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion When industry wants science to say something, how does it do it? Last year, The Nation showed us how in its special investigation, How Big Wireless Made Us Think That Cell Phones Are Safe. In 1993, a lawsuit alleged that cellphones caused a womans terminal brain cancer. As wireless stocks headed downward, the industry unleashed a five-fold response. This tactical plan can be used by any threatened industry on any issue at any time to influence science, regulators, public perception and government policy. "Everyone knows that if your research results show that radiation has effects, the funding flow dries up." Citizens beware. The government never tested the safety of cellphones prior to the cancer lawsuit. But just one week after it was launched, Tom Wheeler, president of the Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association (CTIA) in the United States, announced that cellphones were safe. He also announced the industry would fund research that would "re-validate the findings of the existing studies." With that, he authored the conclusions of the Wireless Research Technology project before it even began. The first industry tactic is to buy the science. Biochemistry professor Henri Lai looked at 326 safety-related studies on cellphone use between 1990 and 2005 and found that 67 per cent of independently funded studies found biological damage from cellphone radiation, but only 28 per cent of industry-funded studies did. Lai participated in the CTIA study. In an interview with Microwave News, he recounted numerous anomalies and apparent industry manipulation of the study, including an attempt to gut its discussion section. The CTIA massaged the message again after the World Health Organization published its Interphone study in 2000. The study showed that those who used a cellphone for 10 years or longer saw their risk of glioma (a type of brain tumour) increase by 120 per cent. Yet John Walls, VP for public affairs at CTIA, told reporters that "Interphones conclusion of no overall increased risk of brain cancer is consistent with conclusions reached in an already large body of scientific research on this subject." Another tactic is to kill the research. Biochemistry professor Dariusz Leszczynski first experienced this in 1999 when he was adjunct professor at Harvard Medical School. He wanted to investigate the effects of radiation that were higher than the government-allowed levels but kept getting overruled by scientists funded by Motorola. In 2011, Leszczynski said in an interview, "Everyone knows that if your research results show that radiation has effects, the funding flow dries up." A year later, his employer, the Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority of Finland, stopped researching the biological effects of cellphones and released him. The draft version of a National Toxicology Program study in 2016 called cellphone radiation a "probable" or "known" carcinogen with "broad implications for public health." Yet when the final version was released in 2018, the studys senior scientist John Bucher said in a press conference, "I dont think this is a high-risk situation at all." Microwave News editor Louis Slesin wondered openly what changed at NTP? 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. His best guesses were industry, military and political pressure, as well as leadership changes. Tom Wheeler, CTIA president from 1992-2004, chaired the Federal Communications Commission in the U.S. from 2013-2017. Meredith Attwell Baker, FCC commissioner from 2009-2011, has presided over CTIA since 2014. In a Harvard University ethics paper, journalist Norm Alster called FCC a "captured agency," and cited the CTIA website, which praised FCC for "its light regulatory touch." Leave it to big wireless to maintain its message over the airwaves. Lee Harding is a research associate with the Frontier Centre for Public Policy. Troy Media In your bill from Manitoba Hydro this month, you probably received the usual Energy Matters leaflet, with an article titled The Manitoba-Minnesota Transmission Project a stronger grid for the province. It claims the purpose of this electric interconnection is to strengthen the overall reliability of Manitobas electricity supply and to meet existing power sale agreements. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion In your bill from Manitoba Hydro this month, you probably received the usual "Energy Matters" leaflet, with an article titled "The Manitoba-Minnesota Transmission Project a stronger grid for the province." It claims the purpose of this electric interconnection is "to strengthen the overall reliability of Manitobas electricity supply and to meet existing power sale agreements." What it doesnt mention is the capital cost to Hydro of this drastically overbuilt line to the U.S. could reach $1 billion. Hydros customer, Minnesota Power, desired a much smaller and lower-cost interconnection, but Hydro insisted a larger one was required. Minnesota Power responded that Manitoba Hydro should pay for it. Hydro established a numbered company (6690271 Manitoba Ltd.) to pay for the U.S. portion. The cost of the Manitoba portion of this interconnection is $453 million, meaning Hydro, through its numbered company, will be paying $547 million into the U.S. more than half the projects total cost. The need for this new interconnection was originally argued in 2014 Hydros "Preferred Development Plan," which included the 1,485-megawatt Conawapa project. But the Public Utilities Board excluded the Conawapa project from the scaled-down plan it approved, so why wasnt this 750-megawatt Manitoba-Minnesota transmission project cut back as well? What has gone horribly wrong in Hydros plan is that while it correctly anticipated a greater green-energy requirement in the future, it included only hydroelectricity as a non-carbon generation option. Xcel Energy, Manitoba Hydros largest export customer in the U.S. since 1980, recently published its average green-energy generation costs, which include large solar photovoltaics with battery storage at US$36/megawatt-hour, and a combination of wind, solar and battery storage at US$30.60/megawatt-hour. Compare these green-energy prices with the approximate US$90/megawatt-hour energy from Keeyask, some of which Hydro will require for the Minnesota Power contracts. Note also that Efficiency Manitoba, the replacement for Power Smart, requires Hydro to reduce its load 1.5 per cent from the previous year for each of the next 15 years so it will be a long time until Keeyasks power is required for Manitoba under the present circumstances. It is no wonder that Xcel Energy, Hydros other U.S. market, has no need to renew its existing firm energy contracts from Hydro after they expire in 2025. It will be able to get cheaper green energy elsewhere or, if not, from Keeyask at fire-sale prices. As it stands, Hydros average electricity export prices have been stuck at only US$30/megawatt-hour for the past 10 years. 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. All this brings into question Hydros claim in the Energy Matters leaflet that this new electric interconnection to Minnesota Power "will also keep electricity rates in Manitoba lower by providing increased access to markets in the U.S. for export sales." If this is so, why are our rates still increasing? To put things into perspective, Manitoba Hydro used to have the lowest-cost electricity on the continent, but not now. On April 1, 2018, Hydro-Quebec increased its rates 0.3 per cent and on April 1, 2019, its rate increase was 0.9 per cent. In Manitoba on June 1, 2018, electricity rates increased 3.6 per cent, with another 3.5 per cent rate increase requested for 2019. By then, Manitoba residential electricity rates will be 30 per cent higher than Quebecs. The Energy Matters leaflet states that Manitoba-Minnesota interconnection will "strengthen the overall reliability of Manitobas electricity supply," citing protection against drought as a reliability issue. Concern about drought is a consequence of hydroelectricity being the sole source of Hydros electric energy, and more profitable ways to achieve protection from drought are possible than with this new electric interconnection. Electricite de France is installing 75,000 electric vehicle charging stations in Europe. ENEL, the large Italian electric utility, is working with the Chinese BYD electric vehicle manufacturer, which is backed by Warren Buffett, to provide electric bus charging stations in South America. Quebec has established Ecotech Quebec to develop clean technologies as "an engine of wealth creation and prosperity." Actions are underway globally to deal with todays energy-industry challenges, and Manitoba is being left behind. Manitoba must cease selling its valuable hydroelectricity at a loss subsidized by domestic electricity rate increases. The provincial government can allocate its annual payments from Hydro to profitably invest in industry incentives to build our economy. Dennis Woodford is president of Electranix Corp., a consulting firm that specializes in power-system studies. Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer, once he becomes prime minister, will establish a coast-to-coast corridor for oil pipelines and power transmission lines. Provinces and Indigenous communities will agree in advance to pipelines and power lines within the corridor. Energy will flow freely through the country and everyone will be happy. Wow! Why did no one else think of that? Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 27/5/2019 (946 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer, once he becomes prime minister, will establish a coast-to-coast corridor for oil pipelines and power transmission lines. Provinces and Indigenous communities will agree in advance to pipelines and power lines within the corridor. Energy will flow freely through the country and everyone will be happy. Wow! Why did no one else think of that? Its a very suitable Big Idea for a Conservative leader. John A. Macdonald, the partys first leader and prime minister, conceived and achieved the national dream of a coast-to-coast rail line in the 1870s and 1880s, with momentous effects on both the national economy and Indigenous Peoples. Mr. Scheers energy corridor is a correspondingly bold 19th-century idea. Conservative leader Andrew Scheer wants to establish a coast-to-coast corridor for oil pipelines and power transmission lines. (Ryan Remiorz / The Canadian Press files) Mr. Scheer has been touring the country and outlining his program. He covered foreign policy in a May 7 speech in Montreal and economic policy on May 16 in Toronto. The Toronto speech was mostly about balancing the federal budget while cutting taxes. The startling new element he introduced was the energy corridor. 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. He would work, he said, toward "a dedicated, coast-to-coast right-of-way specifically set aside for energy infrastructure projects. Rather than have industry submit complicated route proposals for every new transmission line and pipeline project, we could have a single corridor planned upfront and in full consultation with the provinces and with Indigenous Canadians who would share in the prosperity that it would provide. With a single corridor, we could minimize environmental impacts, lower the costs of environmental assessments, increase certainty for investors and, most importantly, get these critical projects built." On closer inspection, however, the proposal seems unlikely to arouse much enthusiasm outside the oil and gas industry. Such a corridor is sure to run through some provinces territory and cross some Indigenous land. Why would any province or Indigenous community sign a blank cheque to support pipeline projects that have not even been proposed yet, much less designed? As long as it sounds like a proposal to put the pipelines somewhere else and Not In My Back Yard, it could seem appealing. Eventually, however, the corridor would lie in someones backyard under the St. Lawrence River at Montreal, for instance, or through the Yellowhead Pass in Alberta and British Columbia. The obstacles to pipeline or power line construction in Canada and the United States are difficult enough when just one line with one purpose and one set of ownership and environmental issues is under study. Those obstacles will not be made less by lumping all the current and potential pipelines and power lines together in a single corridor. The obstacles to pipeline or power line construction will not be lessened by lumping all the current and potential pipelines and power lines together in a single corridor. (Darryl Dyck / The Canadian Press files) The corridor idea seems like a shortcut or an end run around environmental assessment and negotiation with landowners. But Canadas experience has shown that shortcuts and end runs finish up in court. Law, policy and the prevailing public mood have changed since John A. Macdonalds day. There may be a substitute for the slow, patient work of designing and locating a pipeline to do the least possible damage and harm the fewest neighbours, but Mr. Scheer has not found it. The British Columbia Appeal Court unanimously found last week that the B.C. government had no power to regulate oil shipments through the Trans Mountain pipeline. That ruling, upholding federal authority, will have more impact than Mr. Scheers corridor idea when it comes to opening the way for pipeline construction. All Bluff Country Co-op events in June. All events are open to the public. To RSVP, call 507-452-1815. Tuesday, June 4: Tasty Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. In this new series held on the first Tuesday of every month, the co-op will introduce fruits and veggies to children 5 and under. Each child will receive a free fruits and veggies passport, which the co-op will use as a guide as everyone explores new tastes. Free, but space is limited. Please RSVP at 507-452-1815. Saturday, June 8: Drop-In DIY, Natural Bug Spray, 10-11 a.m. Stop in and make your own all-natural bug spray. Fee: $5 owners, $7 non-owners. (Fee includes everything you need to make a 4-ounce bottle of bug spray.) No need to RSVP. Thursday, June 13: Teen Cuisine, Vegetarian Sushi Rolls and Mindfulness, 5-7 p.m. Join Trish Johnson and Nico Stern (a teenager himself) as they lead our local teens through a fun, interactive evening of vegetarian sushi roll making and eating. This 2-hour class offers teens the opportunity to explore chopping, tasting, rolling and eating sushi together. Mindfulness, particular to mindful eating, will be incorporated throughout the class. Plan on lots of fun, engagement and plenty of delicious healthy food. This topic was requested by teens. Free, but space is limited. Please RSVP at 507-452-1815. Saturday, June 15: Kids Cook, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Kids ages 5-12 will have fun in this interactive introduction to cooking. Free, but space is limited. Please RSVP at 507-452-1815. Tuesday, June 18: Yoga at the Co-op, 12:05-12:50 p.m. Make a lunch date with your yoga mat at the Co-op. In this partnership with Infinity Wellness, the Co-op offers a free yoga class in the Community Room on the third Tuesday of each month. Mollee Sheehan will lead this gentle, all-levels 45-minute sequence. Please bring your yoga mat if have one. Free, but space is limited. Please RSVP at 507-452-1815. Tuesday, June 18: Herb Walk, 6-7:30 p.m. Join Herbalist Bonnie Kreckow for a walk to identify woodland plants and learn their medicinal benefits. Meet at Farmers Park at the bottom of Lewiston Hill in the arches. In case of rain, the walk will be rescheduled. $12 BCC owners, $15 non-owners. Please RSVP at 507-452-1815. Saturday, June 22: Class & Dinner: Lets Roll! Sushi & Spring Rolls, 5:30-7:30 p.m.: Gain the skills to make veggie sushi and spring rolls in your own home. Well create custom sushi/spring rolls and a delicious dipping sauce. Learning the art of rolling sushi is fun, simple and makes a great reason to gather a group of friends to roll sushi together. You will leave with sushi to bring home and an evening to remember. Bring containers to take some home. Fee: $15 non-owner, $12 owner. Sunday, June 30: Coffee Chat, 9-10:30 a.m. Ever wonder what its like to be on the Co-op board of directors? Stop in to chat with the board. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Della Schmidt, president/CEO of the Winona Area Chamber of Commerce, was recently named Executive of the Year by the Mid-America Chamber Executives. The honor occurred at the groups annual conference, held in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, in the beginning of May. The organization represents chamber executives in the six-state region of Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Awards were presented for Digital Campaign of the Year, Event of the Year, Executive of the Year, Public Policy of the Year and Publication of the Year. The executive of the year award is presented to a chamber executive who has demonstrated a vision, commitment and passion for the advancement of their chamber and community as a whole. The nominees in this category have proven to others that they are the gold standard in chamber leadership and are proven to have the vision for future chamber members to follow. The executive of the year award included nominees from around the six-state area and recognizes high ranking chamber members for their giving spirit, many successes and humble attitude. While these leaders take an active role in their communities, they are well respected among their peers, serve on many community boards and give a helping hand whenever needed. Schmidt was chosen for her dedication to the chamber industry and her 17 years of service to the Winona area. She was responsible for creating significant impact on the business community, the residents of Winona and its visitors. She was able to accomplish this by leading efforts through business initiative programs and innovative workforce solutions. Through her leadership the Winona Area Chamber has soared to amazing heights. Schmidt will be moving on in her career with her new position at the Greater Burlington Partnership in Burlington, Iowa, in the end of May. The other MACE Executive of the Year finalists were Nate Welch of the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company and Kristina Wiltgen of the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Agrace Hospice and Palliative Care has appointed Mary Bonte Spath to its foundation board. Bonte Spath, of Oxford, is chief financial officer of Kalahari Resorts, a full-service vacation destination with meeting and convention facilities in Wisconsin, Ohio and Pennsylvania. She has been a certified public accountant for 35 years, with previous experience working for Morton, Nehls & Tierney CPA Firm. She earned her masters of business administration in decision support systems from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. She is also a board member/treasurer for the Todd and Shari Nelson Family Foundation, based in the Wisconsin Dells. From first recognizing youre hungry to remembering where the bread is stored, there are more steps involved in making a sandwich than most people realize. Considering those implicit steps and the difficulty they pose for people living with dementia was one of the lessons of a Baraboo High School health class Friday led by Gina Laack, a dementia care specialist with the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Eagle Country. Simple activities like making a sandwich or getting dressed that we think are so simple can become very daunting and difficult for individuals living with dementia, Laack said. Through 90-minute sessions, students in Julie Jensens six 10th-grade health classes became the first high school students in Wisconsin to be trained as Dementia Friends on Thursday and Friday, according to Laack. The program, originally started in the United Kingdom, came to the U.S. as Dementia Friends USA and seeks to inform more people about what it can be like to live with dementia and how to help. Despite a visit to Walnut Hill Cemetery being rained out, Topham said the Memorial Day morning went well, and he felt grateful to everyone who came out to support local veterans. He commended Legionnaire Bill Crowley for taking a lead role in organizing the days events. Topham served in the U.S. Army Wisconsin National Guard when the Berlin Wall was erected during the Cold War. He said hes one of the lucky soldiers who returned home. Rundio also said he feels lucky that he, his father and many uncles all returned home safely after their military service in various decades or wars. During a closing ceremony Monday morning, community member Rosie Cummings read the names of at least 45 local veterans who are known to have died over the past year. Retired U.S. Army Colonel Jim Konicki spoke at the event about the importance of remembering the sacrifices to preserve our freedom made by all U.S. soldiers. Each year, we have the opportunity to recognize the deceased men and women of our armed forces. Thank you for doing it well, he told the audience. Follow Brad on Twitter @BradMikeAllen or call him at 608-745-3510. 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. Margaret Meg Exner was born Aug. 15, 1963, in Beaver Dam, the daughter of Donald and Irene (Decker) Exner. She graduated from Beaver Dam High School with the class of 1981 and earned a bachelors degree in education from UW-Eau Claire. She taught for more than 25 years, with the majority of her time at Beaver Dam High School, where she was a very passionate advocate for special education. She loved raising her daughter and spending time with her family. Relaxing by the pool and knitting were some of her favorite hobbies. An animal lover, Megs beaming smile and infectious laugh will always be remembered. But likewise, its also clear that were all still sifting through the implications in the states where the freedom has been granted, and there are plenty of analyses that suggest or conclude the measures are big business initiatives that have produced problems of one sort or another. As Illinois state Rep. Marty Moylan, an opponent from Des Plaines, aptly points out, the associated commercialization of marijuana will focus on expanding its market by glamorizing marijuana use, not discouraging it. As law enforcement critics point out, few practical techniques to test for marijuana use have been developed to assist in efforts to discourage driving under the influence. Proponents of legalization concede that marijuana use can be harmful. Their primary argument is that the status quo is not working, however, and we grant that is true. They say that under legalization, marijuana production, sales and use can be regulated in ways that they cant be now. Its a strong argument, and were open to it. But again, we ask, whats the rush? Instead, lets take advantage of the fact that were not first. From the use of light to treat tumors and the Roman mystery religion of Mithras to climate change and storm chasing, the topics of a UW-Madison public science series now in its 14th year span a broad range. Wednesday Nite @ the Lab, which started in February 2006, allows the public to hear campus scientists and occasionally researchers from other universities share their expertise. We want to welcome people to their public land-grant, research and extension university, said Tom Zinnen, outreach program manager at UWs Genetics Biotechnology Center on Henry Mall, where the talks are presented at 7 p.m. on 50 Wednesdays a year. Its something that is regular, routine and reliable, Zinnen said. Zinnen and Sarah Schutt, now with the Wisconsin Alumni Foundation, started the series through a Baldwin Wisconsin Idea Endowment grant. At the time, arts groups and select science venues, such as the Washburn Observatory and the Geology Museum, regularly invited the public to visit campus. But few other scientists had a way to routinely engage with the community, Zinnen said. A 2020 Kelly victory would maintain the courts 5-2 conservative majority, which it will have when Hagedorn is seated later this summer. Hagedorns election in April secured the courts conservative majority until at least 2023. Kelly is currently set to face two liberal-backed candidates: Ed Fallone, a Marquette Law School professor, and Dane County Judge Jill Karofsky. I believe that merit and integrity and not political connections are what qualify a person for a seat on our states highest court, and I believe that the voters of Wisconsin agree with me, Fallone said in a statement. Karofsky on social media welcomed Kelly to the race and said she looks forward to a spirited and important conversation about their experience and view of the law. Karofsky received the backing of the liberal-backed Justice Rebecca Dallet on Tuesday. The liberal group One Wisconsin Now, which has played a prominent role in recent Supreme Court elections by unearthing candidates controversial writings, tore into Kellys record Tuesday, slamming him as a far right candidate who owes his position on the Supreme Court to Walker. On a recent trip to Japan, President Donald Trump said he agreed with a remark by North Korea's dictator, Kim Jong Un, that Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden had a low IQ. It was remarkable for a president to side with dictator over a former vice president and it was also remarkable for a president on a foreign trip to discuss domestic politics. Emergency responders on Saturday flew an injured motorcycle driver to University Hospital in Madison after a crash near Pardeeville. Columbia County Sheriff Roger Brandner said Tuesday that Mark Savoy, 51, of rural Waunakee, suffered serious injuries after a woman driving a Mercury Grand Marquis pulled out in front of him from a stop sign at the intersection of Military and Polinske roads in the town of Marcellon. The crash occurred at 11:22 a.m. Saturday, and Brandner said authorities called a UW Med Flight helicopter to transport Savoy to a hospital. Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} Brandner said Savoy was not at fault in the crash. He was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash and was conscious and spoke to officers on scene. The female driver, who was unharmed, received a traffic citation for failure to yield right of way. UW Health Senior Media Specialist Toni Morrissey said Tuesday that Savoy was in stable condition. Brandner said such accidents can be prevented if drivers remain vigilant about other traffic and look twice at intersections, particularly on busy traveling weekends such as Memorial Day. This is a good reminder that it is imperative to pay attention for bikes, joggers and motorcycles when driving, Brandner said. They have just as much as a right to be there as cars. It is everyones responsibility to watch for and yield to bikes and motorcycles. Follow Brad on Twitter @BradMikeAllen or call him at 608-745-3510. 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. Between four and eight Alsum drivers are currently avoiding certain back roads and instead have to drive through Portage while traveling to various locations throughout the region, Jedlowski said. The extra few miles every day lead to more wear and tear on the companys vehicles, and some Portage residents might not be happy about being stuck in heavier downtown traffic as a result. Construction projects are inevitable, Jedlowski said, and she expects drivers to see reduced traffic congestion in a few weeks after the Fox River bridge reopens and allows drivers to traverse their usual routes. Flooding fallout Hardy said in the wake of two separate waves of flooding in Columbia County between March and April, a handful of roads remain closed to the public as highway teams work to reopen them. At the height of all of this, we had 20 roads closed, roughly, he said, adding 12 roads have reopened in the last month, and several more roads should reopen in the next few weeks. The 78th day dawned, quiet for the first time, he said. The flag was flying over Khe Sanh. It was dirty. It was ripped. But it was still there. Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} The same imagery comes to mind, Schutz said, during the War of 1812 battle at Fort McHenry, which inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words to The Star-Spangled Banner, and in the iconic photograph of U.S. Marines raising the stars and stripes at Iwo Jima during World War II. A parade down West Slifer Street preceded the ceremony at Blue Star Park Portages traditional display of patriotism not only from veterans and veterans organizations, but also from children, including Boy Scouts, band members from Portage High School and Wayne E. Bartels Middle School, veterans organization scholarship winners and the winners of the Daughters of the American Revolutions History Awards. But Mayor Rick Dodd who drove in the parade, with the Rev. David Hankins riding shotgun observed, at the start of the ceremonies, that Portages older veterans are a wealth of knowledge, and a source of stories that help many generations understand and experience the true meaning of Memorial Day. The following companies are subsidiares of Bristol-Myers Squibb: 1096271 B.C. ULC, 345 Park LLC, A.G. Medical Services P.A., AHI Investment LLC, AbVitro LLC, Abraxis BioScience Australia Pty Ltd., Abraxis BioScience Inc., Abraxis BioScience International Holding Company Inc., Abraxis BioScience LLC, Abraxis BioScience Puerto Rico LLC, Acetylon Pharmaceuticals Inc., Adnexus, Adnexus a Bristol-Myers Squibb R&D Company, Allard Labs Acquisition G.P., Amira Pharmaceuticals, Amira Pharmaceuticals Inc., Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Apothecon LLC, B-MS Generx Unlimited Company, BMS Benelux Holdings B.V., BMS Bermuda Nominees L.L.C., BMS Data Acquisition Company LLC, BMS Forex Company, BMS Holdings Sarl, BMS Holdings Spain S.L., BMS International Insurance Designated Activity Company, BMS Investco SAS, BMS Korea Holdings L.L.C., BMS Latin American Nominees L.L.C., BMS Luxembourg Partners L.L.C., BMS Omega Bermuda Holdings Finance Ltd., BMS Pharmaceutical Korea Limited, BMS Pharmaceuticals Germany Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals International Holdings Netherlands B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Korea Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Mexico Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Netherlands Holdings B.V., BMS Real Estate LLC, BMS Spain Investments LLC, BMS Strategic Portfolio Investments Holdings Inc., Blisa Acquisition G.P., Bristol (Iran) S.A., Bristol Iran Private Company Limited, Bristol Laboratories Inc., Bristol Laboratories International S.A., Bristol Laboratories Medical Information Systems Inc., Bristol-Myers (Andes) L.L.C., Bristol-Myers (Private) Limited, Bristol-Myers Middle East S.A.L., Bristol-Myers Overseas Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb (China) Investment Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (China) Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (Israel) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (NZ) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Proprietary) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (Singapore) Pte. Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Taiwan) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (West Indies) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb A.E., Bristol-Myers Squibb Aktiebolag, Bristol-Myers Squibb Argentina S. R. L., Bristol-Myers Squibb Australia Pty. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Axia Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb B.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb Belgium S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Business Services Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada Co., Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada International Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Delta Company Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Denmark Filial of Bristol-Myers Squibb AB, Bristol-Myers Squibb EMEA Sarl, Bristol-Myers Squibb Egypt LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Epsilon Holdings Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Ltda., Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Portuguesa S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb GesmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb GmbH & Co. KGaA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holding Germany GmbH & Co. KG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings 2002 Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Germany Verwaltungs GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Ireland Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Pharma Ltd. Liability Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Ilaclari Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb India Pvt. Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb International Company Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb International Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb Investco L.L.C., Bristol-Myers Squibb K.K., Bristol-Myers Squibb Kft., Bristol-Myers Squibb Luxembourg International S.C.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Bristol-Myers Squibb MEA GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Manufacturing Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Marketing Services S.R.L., Bristol-Myers Squibb Middle East & Africa FZ-LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Norway Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Nutricionales de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb Peru S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma (HK) Ltd, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma (Thailand) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Holding Company LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Ventures Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Polska Sp. z o.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Products SA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Puerto Rico Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Puerto Rico/Sanofi Pharmaceutical Partnership Puerto Rico, Bristol-Myers Squibb Romania S.R.L., Bristol-Myers Squibb S.A.U., Bristol-Myers Squibb S.r.l., Bristol-Myers Squibb SA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Holding Partnership, Bristol-Myers Squibb Sarl, Bristol-Myers Squibb Service Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Services Sp. z o.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Spol. s r.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Theta Finance Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Trustees Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Verwaltungs GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb de Colombia S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb de Costa Rica Sociedad Anonima, Bristol-Myers Squibb de Guatemala S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb/Astrazeneca EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb/Pfizer EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Partnership, Bristol-Myers de Venezuela S.C.A., CHT I LLC, CHT II LLC, CHT III LLC, CHT IV LLC, CR Finance Company LLC, Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals, Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals Inc., Celem LLC, Celem Ltd., Celgene, Celgene A.B., Celgene AS, Celgene Ab (Finland), Celgene Alpine Investment Co. II LLC, Celgene Alpine Investment Co. III LLC, Celgene Alpine Investment Co. LLC, Celgene ApS, Celgene B.V., Celgene BVBA, Celgene Brasil Produtos Farmaceuticos Ltda., Celgene CAR LLC, Celgene CAR Ltd., Celgene Chemicals Sarl, Celgene China Holdings LLC, Celgene Co., Celgene Corporation, Celgene Distribution B.V., Celgene EngMab GmbH, Celgene Europe B.V., Celgene Europe Limited, Celgene European Investment Company LLC, Celgene Financing Company LLC, Celgene Global Holdings Sarl, Celgene GmbH [Austria], Celgene GmbH [Germany], Celgene GmbH [Switzerland], Celgene Holdings East Corporation, Celgene Holdings II Sarl, Celgene Holdings III Sarl, Celgene Ilac Pazarlama ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Celgene Inc., Celgene International Holdings Corporation, Celgene International II Sarl, Celgene International III Sarl, Celgene International Inc., Celgene International Sarl, Celgene K.K., Celgene Kft., Celgene Limited [Hong Kong], Celgene Limited [Ireland], Celgene Limited [New Zealand], Celgene Limited [Taiwan], Celgene Limited [UK], Celgene Logistics Sarl, Celgene Ltd, Celgene Luxembourg Sarl, Celgene Management Sarl, Celgene NJ Investment Co, Celgene Netherlands B.V., Celgene Netherlands Investment B.V., Celgene Pharmaceutical (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Celgene Pte. Ltd., Celgene Pty Ltd, Celgene Puerto Rico Distribution LLC, Celgene Quanticel Research Inc, Celgene R&D Sarl, Celgene RIVOT LLC, Celgene RIVOT Ltd., Celgene RIVOT SRL, Celgene Receptos Limited, Celgene Receptos Sarl, Celgene Research Incubator At Summit West LLC, Celgene Research S.L.U., Celgene Research and Development Company LLC, Celgene Research and Development I ULC, Celgene Research and Development II LLC, Celgene Research and Investment Company II LLC, Celgene S. de R.L. de C.V., Celgene S.L.U., Celgene S.R.L., Celgene SAS, Celgene Sarl AU, Celgene Sdn Bhd, Celgene Services Sarl, Celgene Sociedade Unipessoal Lda, Celgene Sp. Z.o.o., Celgene Sro [Czech Republic], Celgene Summit Investment Co, Celgene Switzerland Holding Sarl, Celgene Switzerland II LLC, Celgene Switzerland Investment Sarl, Celgene Switzerland LLC, Celgene Switzerland Sarl, Celgene Tri A Holdings Ltd., Celgene Tri Sarl, Celgene UK Distribution Limited, Celgene UK Holdings Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing II Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing III Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing Limited, Celgene d.o.o., Celgene sro [Slovakia], Celmed LLC, Celmed Ltd., ConvaTec Divestiture, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals AB, Crosp Ltd., Delinia Inc., Deuteria Pharmaceuticals Inc., DuPont Pharmaceuticals, E. R. Squibb & Sons Inter-American Corporation, E. R. Squibb & Sons L.L.C., E. R. Squibb & Sons Limited, EWI Corporation, EngMab Sarl, F-star Alpha, FermaVir Pharmaceuticals L.L.C., FermaVir Research L.L.C., Flexus Biosciences, Flexus Biosciences Inc., Forbius, Galecto Biotech, GenPharm International L.L.C., Gloucester Pharmaceuticals LLC, Grove Insurance Company Ltd., Heyden Farmaceutica Portuguesa Limitada, IFM Therapeutics, Impact Biomedicines Inc., Inhibitex, Inhibitex L.L.C., Innate Tumor Immunity Inc., JuMP Holdings LLC, Juno Therapeutics GmbH, Juno Therapeutics Inc., Kosan Biosciences, Kosan Biosciences Incorporated, Linson Investments Limited, Mead Johnson (Manufacturing) Jamaica Limited, Mead Johnson Jamaica Ltd., Medarex, Morris Avenue Investment II LLC, Morris Avenue Investment LLC, MyoKardia, O.o.o. Bristol-Myers Squibb, Oy Bristol-Myers Squibb (Finland) AB, Padlock Therapeutics, Padlock Therapeutics Inc., Pharmion LLC, Princeton Pharmaceutical Products Inc., Receptos LLC, Receptos Services LLC, RedoxTherapies Inc., Route 22 Real Estate Holding Corporation, SPV A Holdings ULC, Seamair Insurance DAC, Signal Pharmaceuticals LLC, Sino-American Shanghai Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited, Societe Francaise de Complements Alimentaires(S.O.F.C.A.), Squibb Middle East S.A., Summit West Celgene LLC, Swords Laboratories, VentiRx Pharmaceuticals Inc., Westwood-Intrafin SA, Westwood-Squibb Pharmaceuticals Inc., X-Body Inc., ZymoGenetics, ZymoGenetics Inc., ZymoGenetics LLC, ZymoGenetics Paymaster LLC, iPierian, and iPierian Inc.. CMC Markets plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides online retail financial services to retail, professional, stockbroking, and institutional clients in Australia, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company provides its clients with the ability to trade contracts for difference and financial spread betting on a range of underlying shares, indices, foreign currencies, commodities, and treasuries through its trading platform. It also offers Australian clients the opportunity to trade Australian and selected international instruments, including shares, options, managed funds, warrants, and exchange traded funds. In addition, the company provides its clients a range of education opportunities through weekly and monthly webinars and seminars, as well as Trader Development programme, which provides a range of in-platform, on-demand education, and tailored market commentary. CMC Markets plc was founded in 1989 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom. Read More China Distance Education Holdings Limited primarily provides online and offline education services, and sells related products in the People's Republic of China. It operates in three segments: Professional Education Services, Business Start-Up Training Services, and The Sale of Learning Simulation Software. The company offers online professional education services in accounting, healthcare, engineering and construction, and legal education industries; and other professional education courses, such as online test-preparation courses for self-taught learners pursuing higher education diplomas or degrees, and accounting practical skills training courses for college students and working professionals. As of September 30, 2020, it operated 19 Websites. The company also operates an Open Learning Platform, a proprietary education platform to share educational content and deliver live courses online; and sells proprietary books and reference materials. In addition, it provides business start-up training services to university students, job seekers, and individuals; offline accounting, tax, healthcare, and legal professional training services to accounting firms and the general public; and courseware production and online platform development services, as well as sells learning simulation software to the college market. The company was founded in 2000 and is based in Beijing, the People's Republic of China. Read More 2 hours ago Value Investing: Is it a Good Strategy in 2022? (Hint: Always) When you're looking for good investing options in 2022, you may want to take the Warren Buffett approach and focus on value investing. You can't mention value investing without mentioning Buffett, and you can't mention Buffett without mentioning Benjamin Graham. Read Article iShares Edge MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF's stock was trading at $115.21 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus (COVID-19) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, MTUM shares have increased by 58.8% and is now trading at $182.95. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. MAXIMUS, Inc. engages in the operation of government and human services programs. It operates through the following segments: U.S. Services; U.S. Federal Services; and Outside the U.S. The U.S. Services segment offers a variety of business process services, and appeals and assessments for state, provincial and national government programs. The U.S. Federal Services segment includes process solutions, program management, as well as system and software development, and maintenance services for various United States federal civilian programs. The Outside the U.S segment comprises of national, state, and county human services agencies with a variety of business process services, and related consulting services for welfare-to-work, child support, higher education institutions, and other human services programs. The company was founded by David V. Mastran in 1975 and is headquartered in Reston, VA. Read More ONEOK, Inc. engages in gathering, processing, fractionating, transporting, storing and marketing of natural gas. It operates through the following segments: Natural Gas Gathering and Processing, Natural Gas Liquids and Natural Gas Pipelines. The Natural Gas Gathering and Processing segment offers midstream services to producers in North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Kansas and Oklahoma. The Natural Gas Liquids segment owns and operates facilities that gather, fractionate, treat and distribute NGLs and store NGL products, in Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, New Mexico and the Rocky Mountain region, which includes the Williston, Powder River and DJ Basins, where it provides midstream services to producers of NGLs and deliver those products to the two market centers, one in the Mid-Continent in Conway, Kansas and the other in the Gulf Coast in Mont Belvieu, Texas. The Natural Gas Pipelines segment provides transportation and storage services to end users. The company was founded in 1906 and is headquartered in Tulsa, OK. Read More Royal Bank of Canada operates as a diversified financial service company worldwide. The company's Personal & Commercial Banking segment offers checking and savings accounts, home equity financing, personal lending, private banking, indirect lending, mutual funds and self-directed brokerage accounts, guaranteed investment certificates, credit cards, and payment products and solutions; and lending, leasing, deposit, investment, foreign exchange, cash management, auto dealer financing, trade products, and services to small and medium-sized commercial businesses. This segment offers financial products and services through branches, automated teller machines, and mobile sales network. Its Wealth Management segment provides a suite of advice-based solutions and strategies to high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals, and institutional clients. The company's Insurance segment offers life, health, home, auto, travel, wealth, annuities, and reinsurance advice and solutions; and creditor and business insurance services to individual, business, and group clients through its field sales force, advice centers, and online, as well as through independent insurance advisors and affinity relationships. Its Investor & Treasury Services segment provides asset, cash management, transaction banking, and treasury services to institutional clients; correspondent banking and trade finance services for financial institutions; and short-term funding and liquidity management services. The company's Capital Markets segment offers corporate and investment banking, as well as equity and debt origination, distribution, sale, and trading services for corporations, institutional investors, asset managers, governments, and central banks. Royal Bank of Canada has a strategic partnership with Royal College Of Physicians & Surgeons Of Canada to support the needs of Canada's medical specialists. The company was founded in 1864 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Read More Rayonier Advanced Materials, Inc. engages in the production and sale of cellulose products, which is a natural polymer commonly used in the production of cell phone and computer screens, filters, and pharmaceuticals. It operates through the following segments: High Purity Cellulose, Forest Products, Paperboard, Pulp and Newsprint, and Corporate. The High Purity Cellulose segment manufacture and market high purity cellulose, which is sold as either cellulose specialties or commodity products in U.S., Canda, and France. The Forest Products segment manufacture and market construction-grade lumber in North America through seven sawmills located in Canada. The Paperboard segment comprises paperboard products. The Pulp and Newsprint segment involves in the production of pulp and newsprint in Canada. The Corporate segment consists senior management, accounting, information systems, human resources, treasury, tax, and legal administrative functions that provide support services to the operating business units. The company was founded in 1926 and is headquartered in Jacksonville, FL. Read More Xcel Energy, Inc. operates as a holding company, which engages in the generation, purchase, transmission, distribution and sale of electricity. It operates through the following three segments: Regulated Electric Utility, Regulated Natural Gas Utility and All Others. The Regulated Electric Utility segment generates, transmits and distributes electricity primarily in portions of generates, transmits and distributes electricity in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, Colorado, Texas and New Mexico. In addition, this segment includes sales for resale and provides wholesale transmission service to various entities in the United States. It also includes commodity trading operations. The Regulated Natural Gas Utility segment transports, stores, and distributes natural gas primarily in portions of Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Michigan and Colorado. The All Others segment engages in steam, appliance repair services, nonutility real estate activities, processing solid waste into refuse-derived fuel and investments in rental housing projects that qualify for low-income housing tax credits. The company was founded in 1909 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN. Read More It started with a simple question. "How has serving impacted you?" the US Army asked on its Twitter account days before Memorial Day. What came next was unexpected and heartbreaking. The tweet prompted a slew of gut-wrenching replies from veterans and their family members, including accounts of living with post-traumatic stress disorder and stories of suicide. One such response came from college professor Lacy M. Johnson. "My cousin committed suicide while on duty at the armory after coming home from a tour abroad," Johnson said. She later tweeted that she did not want to speak to journalists about family's experience. Kristen L. Rouse, founding director of the NYC Veterans Alliance, told CNN Monday the tweets showed that veterans haven't been and need to be heard. "We are going on 18 years of war, continuous war in multiple countries, the cost of these wars has been born by our military, by our veterans community, by their families who often feel invisible and ignored," said Rouse, who served more than 23 years and has been on three tours in Afghanistan. "We also heard on this Twitter thread from individuals or whose families served well prior to 9/11. It shows that our veterans and military community really needs to be heard." There are about 20 million veterans in the US, and fewer than half receive Veterans Affairs benefits or services, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. About 30% of these veterans served during the Vietnam War, 12% in the Gulf War and 11% to 20% in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, the VA says. "We can't talk enough about it, it's wonderful that this is getting attention, that this struck a chord with people, to see the individual stories," Rouse said. The Army responded to its own thread Saturday. "To everyone who responded to this thread, thank you for sharing your story. Your stories are real, they matter, and they may help others in similar situations. The Army is committed to the health, safety, and well-being of our Soldiers," one tweet read. "As we honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice this weekend by remembering their service, we are also mindful of the fact that we have to take care of those who came back home with scars we can't see," a second tweet read. Lindsay Rodman, spokeswoman for the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, told CNN Monday there's still so much that can be done for veterans. "We currently see a lot of people with mental health struggles who reach out to us," said Rodman, who is a Marine veteran. Rodman said not every veteran is being reached by the VA with reasons varying from a lack of outreach, to some vets not qualifying for such benefits. There are resources for veterans, including the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 (select option 1) and veteranscrisisline.net. "It's essential," Rodman said. "It is the immediate place to go if someone themselves are in crisis or if you know someone in crisis." DELPHI, Ind. (WLFI) The family of Owen Jones is praying that investigators find their their 4-year-old son. A prayer vigil held Monday afternoon in Delphi saw countless community members, friends and family reflecting on Jones' life. It was at 5 p.m. at the gazebo outside the Carroll County Courthouse. It's now been five days since anybody has seen Jones. He was last seen wearing blue shorts and a blue sleeveless shirt. As we previously reported, witnesses said he was swept down stream in Deer Creek under the Washington Street bridge at 6 p.m. last Thursday. Officials are continuing their recovery investigation. After highs Monday of 79-87 & the severe weather event in the evening, with some patchy fog, lows will drop to only 65-71 early this morning. Outflow boundary from complex of storms over Iowa tonight will move into part of our area midday-afternoon today. A few showers & storms may go up along it, but capping may prove to be a detriment to them. They may struggle. If the cap gets strong enough, there won't be any at all. Will keep at 30-35% coverage of rainfall with highs 83-88 & high humidity with southwest winds & sun/clouds. Line of severe storms will approach & gust out over the area in the midnight-3 a.m. time frame. Regardless, this gust front may still produce wind gusts of 35-50 mph over part of the area. Gusts may briefly reach severe limits from this (50-60 mph) in northwestern Newton & Benton counties. The other segment of the line may hold on a bit longer & actually make it to affect Lafayette area & southward 4-7 a.m. Isolated severe gusts are possible. A line of showers & storms may develop along the cold front & pass Wednesday late afternoon evening after a break from any lingering rainfall 10 a.m.-3 p.m. in the area with clouds/sun developing & highs 77-83. A few showers are possible Thursday with mostly cloudy skies & highs 71-76, followed by 52-56 Thursday night. Friday looks good with sun & 76-80, followed by lows of 51-55. 80s & humidity return for the weekend with storms possible Sunday. Severe weather could occur. It should cool off to 70s for highs by Monday. A few showers/storms are possible near June 5, followed by more pronounced showers/storms around June 10 as temperatures warm into the humid 80s. 1:30 p.m. Still capped, but it does appear it may erode by 2:30-3, allowing for robust storm development along outflow boundary. Thus, Severe T'Storm Watch has just been issued for the potential. Given the unstable, sheared environment, storms that completely break through would tend to go severe quickly. __________________________________________________________ 1 p.m. We are capped, so we have this stratocumulus & cumulus deck over the area underneath the cap in a warm, muggy airmass. Temperatures are 78-85 with heat indices as high as 92 with dew points as high as 73. Outflow boundary is progressing through (from storms over Iowa lastnight), which is attempting to build more enhanced cumulus towers from Boswell & Pine Village, through Greater Lafayette to Kokomo. However, the are struggling to really tower & produce t'storms despite very warm, unstable, dynamic & sheared environment. As we heat up to 83-88 today with heat indices 87-96, instability will continue to deepen & increase. There are signs that this boiling airmass & subtle shortwave may cause cap to break. As that occurs, storms may explode along this boundary with mainly severe wind & hail. Threat would tend to be in the 2:30 p.m.-6 p.m. As subtle shortwave skims by, I think cap could re-strengthen this evening & any lingering storms may collapse. This is why the duration is only 2:30-6 p.m. for storm development & severe risk. If cap remains & we can't erode it like it appears will happen, then storms may really struggle. We will monitor. We are in SLIGHT RISK for this period. Severe weather outbreak Iowa, northern Missouri & Illinois will gell into large complex with a bowing line of severe storms this evening-tonight. This will tend to gust out as it approaches & gets into our area. However, we may still get a few severe gusts to 60 mph as gust front surges out ahead of weakening storms. Risk is highest in Benton, Newton & Jasper counties. Gusts of 35-55 mph are possible elsewhere. This would tend to occurr in the 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. time frame. Lows tonight will run 64-69. Line south of the gust front may bring a few isolated severe gusts to our southern counties before & as it gusts out in the 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. time frame. Some showers will follow, followed by lull, then a broken line of storms along the cold front in the afternoon-evening. Highs will run 77-82. Some showers are possible Thursday with 70-76, followed by dry weather & sunshine & lower humidity with 77-83. 50s are likely Thursday night & Friday night. 80s return over the weekend with higher humidity, then storms possible Sunday. New study reveals an unexpected survival mechanism of a subset of cancer cells Embedded at the end of chromosomes are structures called "telomeres" that in normal cells become shorter as cells divide. As the shortening progresses it triggers cell proliferation arrest or death. Cancer cells adopt different strategies to overcome this control mechanism that keeps track of the number of times that a cell has divided. One of these strategies is the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway, which guarantees unlimited proliferation capability. Now, a research group led by Claus M. Azzalin at Instituto de Medicina Molecular Joao Lobo Antunes (iMM; Portugal: https:/ / imm. medicina. ulisboa. pt/ en/ investigacao/ labs/ azzalin-claus-m-lab/ ) has discovered that a human enzyme named FANCM (Fanconi anemia, complementation group M) is absolutely required for the survival of ALT tumor cells. The results were now published in the open access journal Nature Communications*. Future strategies targeting the activity of this molecule in ALT tumor cells can constitute the basis of a novel therapeutic protocol for the treatment of these tumors. ALT tumors are approximately 10% of the human tumors, and often develop in children (for example, juvenile osteosarcoma) and they are particularly resistant to conventional chemotherapy. "Contrary to the canonical telomere elongation mechanism that activates the enzyme telomerase, these tumor cells specifically use this alternative pathway which is insensitive to therapeutic approaches based on telomerase inhibition", explains Claus M. Azzalin, group leader at iMM. "Previous studies have shown that a sustained physiological telomere damage must be maintained in these cells to promote telomere elongation. This scenario implies that telomeric damage levels be maintained within a specific threshold that is high enough to trigger telomere elongation, yet not too high to induce cell death", says Bruno Silva, first author of this work. Using a series of molecular biology-, cell biology- and biochemistry-based experiments, the research team found an essential role for FANCM, a component of the DNA damage repair machineries of the cell. "What we have found is that ALT cells require the activity of the FANCM in order to prevent telomere instability and consequent cell death", says Bruno Silva. "When we remove FANCM from ALT tumor cells, telomeres become heavily damaged and cells stop dividing and die very quickly. This is not observed in tumor cells that express telomerase activity or in healthy cells, meaning that is a specific feature of ATL tumor cells", explains Claus M. Azzalin. "In our view, this is very exciting because it indicates that transiently drugging FANCM activity in ALT cells should lead to very fast cell death specifically in these cells, and sets the potential basis for an alternative therapeutic protocol for this type of tumors", adds Claus Azzalin. ### This study was developed at iMM in collaboration with the Genome Stability Unit and the Department of Medicine at St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research and University of Melbourne (Australia) and the Institute of Biochemistry at ETH Zu?rich (Switzerland). This study was supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation, the European Molecular Biology Organization, the Fundac?a?o para a Cie?ncia e a Tecnologia, the Cancer Council of Victoria, Australian National Health and Medical Research Council, the Buxton Trust and the Victorian Government's OIS Program. *Bruno Silva, Richard Pentz, Ana Margarida Figueira, Rajika Arora, Yong Woo Lee, Charlotte Hodson, Harry Wischnewski, Andrew J. Deans, and Claus M. Azzalin (2019) FANCM limits ALT activity by restricting telomeric replication stress induced by deregulated BLM and R-loops. Nature Communications. Doi: 10.1038/s41467-019-10179-z This story has been published on: 2019-05-28. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. [May 28, 2019] Telecommunication Support Services, Inc Is Now TSS Solutions Telecommunication Support Services, Inc. (TSS, Inc), an Acorn Growth Company, announces its name change to TSS Solutions. The new name is effective immediately and will be implemented across the company's products and services. The company's headquarters will remain in Melbourne, Florida. "For more than 25 years, TSS Solutions has supported a broad range of technical services for satellite, wireless, radar and broadband systems suppliers," said Don DiFrisco, president of TSS Solutions. "The name change signals a targeted focus on innovating and modernizing ground-based radar and satellite communication technologies to support customer needs and requirements around the world." TSS Solutions is a defense electronics engineering and manufacturing-focused company, continually innovating technology advancements and improvements to radar and SATCOM systems originally developed by some of the most powerful aerospace and defense brands in the world. TSS Solutions' technical capabilities and engineering expertise are supported by a full-service, in-house depot operation. As owners of several radar systems, and providers of systems for lease, TSS Solutions is uniquely positioned to provide state-of-the-art technology capabilities at the optimal mix of low cost of acquisition and leasing, fast delivery, service-life extension, and ongoing maintenance and operations support services where it is needed, when it is needed, globally. "Customers, suppliers, and parners will continue to experience the same high-quality products, services, and support that they experience today," DiFrisco said. "Our targeted focus on innovating and modernizing ground-based radar and satellite communication technologies will allow us to meet the growing needs of our customers and new customers as the need for radar and satellite communications continues to evolve and grow." TSS Solutions, an Acorn Growth Company, is the defense electronics leader in upgrading, reengineering, repairing and operating ground-based tactical and fixed position radar and SATCOM systems. The Company is committed to building innovative products and delivering world-class engineering and technical service to support customers' missions globally. TSS Solutions serves the global defense, telecommunications, and commercial industries. The men and women of TSS Solutions are proud to support the United States and its allies who protect national interests and preserve freedom around the world. www.TSSsolutions.com. Acorn Growth Companies is a middle market private equity firm focused exclusively on Aerospace, Defense, and Intelligence. Acorn invests solely in operating companies that strive to enhance global mobility and protect national interests. Acorn has a formidable reputation in the industry and is recognized for its deep understanding of the Aerospace and Defense markets, with proprietary access to the best companies within these sectors. With operational expertise and its ability to lead and manage investments through variable economic and industry cycles, Acorn works in tandem with management to build its portfolio companies into significant market leaders. AcornGrowthCompanies.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190528005004/en/ [ Back To www.mobilitytechzone.com\LTE's Homepage ] Whereas many people are familiar with famous territorial disputes, be it Taiwan, Kosovo, or Crimea, there exists one battle which has eluded widespread awareness. Both Canada and Denmark are known for their peaceful and democratic nature; one does not think of them as nations prone to saber-rattling. Despite this, Canada and Denmark have shared a territorial dispute for almost a century. At the center of this dispute is a small outcropping known as Hans Island. The dispute over Hans Island is genuine, having soured Danish-Canadian relations for decades and remains unresolved to this day. This war of words (and whiskey more on that later) over control of a tiny portion of the vast High Arctic, remains a key point in bilateral relations. Uncertain Past With Danish control over Greenland established in 1815, Denmark has long had a significant presence in the High Arctic region. Following the purchase of Alaska by the United States, and the formation of Canada in 1867, British and American interest in the area increased. Anglo-American efforts to explore and chart the region often relied on Inuit and Danish peoples in Greenland. Canadian sovereignty in the High Arctic came abruptly in 1880, when Britain transferred the British Arctic Territory (based on the claims of 16th century explorer Martin Frobisher) to Canada. The point of this was to prevent American claims based on the Monroe Doctrine (no European ownership in North America) to the region. Given imperfect mapping techniques and the difficulties inherent in Arctic exploration, Hans Island was not explicitly included in this transfer. In the 1920s, Danish explorers were finally able to accurately map Hans Island. The island is a mere 1.3 sq km, uninhabited, devoid of trees and with barely any soil. It is so remote that the closest inhabited location is Alert, Nunavut, Canada, 198 km to the north. Indeed, very little distinguishes Hans Island from the thousands of other barren islands in the area. Consequently, one rightly wonders what all the commotion is about. The reason is that this piece of land is located in the middle of the 35 km wide Nares Strait, which separates Nunavut from Greenland. Under international law, states have control over territorial waters which extend 12 miles (22.2km) from shore. Consequently, Hans Island falls within both the Danish and Canadian 12-mile zone, with both claiming the island as a result. Dispute Escalates in 20th Century In the wake of the Danish mapping of the island, as well as pressure from Copenhagen; the status of Hans Island was brought to the Permanent Court of International Justice (PCIJ), which ruled in favour of Denmark in 1933. However, given the remoteness of the island and the disintegration of the League of Nations (of which the PCIJ was the judicial organ) in the 1930s, this ruling did not resolve matters. Furthermore, following WWII both the League of Nations and PCIJ were abolished and superseded by the UN and International Court of Justice respectively. Consequently, the now eighty-year-old ruling of a defunct court has little power. Following the 1930s, Hans Island faded into obscurity for several decades as both Canada and Denmark attended to more pressing concerns. Later, the island once again fell through the cracks of international law in the early 1970s. In 1972-1973, Canada and Denmark agreed on the demarcation of maritime borders in the Arctic. Both countries recognized each others' claims extending out from the continental shelf, making the agreement the largest of its kind in history. Despite the scope of the negotiations, the status Hans Island remains unresolved. The maritime border immediately north and south of the island were established, but not the island itself. New Millennium, Same Dispute Despite languishing for several decades after 1973, the issue of Hans Island returned to international headlines with a vengeance in 2004. In that year, the official opposition in the Canadian parliament cited Hans Island as a reason for increasing defense spending. This suggestion prompted a swift reaction from Denmark, which summoned the Canadian envoy to the Danish Minister of Foreign Affairs, to explain Ottawa's statements. Relations were further strained when, on July 13th 2005, Canadian forces landed on the island, erecting an Inukshuk and Canadian flag. The following week, Canadian Defence Minister Bill Graham landed on the island. This led Denmark to file a complaint stating that we consider Hans Island to be part of Danish territory, and will therefore hand over a complaint about the Canadian minister's unannounced visit. Fortunately, despite the strong rhetoric, both sides maintain a sense of humor on the issue. As successive Danish and Canadian landings on the island erect and dismantle flag poles and markers, they leave presents for the next contingent. This 'whiskey war' was initiated in 1984, when the Danish minister for Greenland landed on the island leaving a bottle of schnapps and a sign proclaiming Welcome to the Danish Island. Peter Takso Jensen, head of international law department of the Danish Foreign Ministry, noted that when Danish military go there, they leave a bottle of schnapps. And when Canadian military forces come there, they leave a bottle of Canadian Club and a sign saying 'Welcome to Canada' Eastern Market Partnership aims to ensure equitable development in the historic district and preserve its character and authenticity. Marvin Shaouni Eastern Market on Tuesday unveiled several initiatives to foster equitable development while ensuring the preservation of the district's authenticity, including the establishment of development protocols, a food entrepreneur accelerator, and a name change. Effective July 1, Eastern Market's board of directors approved changing the organization's name to Eastern Market Partnership, an umbrella name to better describe the collective work of the organization and the nonprofit real estate development subsidiary, Eastern Market Development Corporation, Eastern Market President Dan Carmody said in a statement. EMP plans to utilize two different protocols, one for mixed-use commercial projects and the other for food production, processing, and distribution projects. The protocols outline 13-16 criteria developers will need to follow if they want to seek support from the partnership and to ensure the projects align with Eastern Market's mission of being an inclusive, welcoming food-centric hub that champions small businesses and food entrepreneurs. These protocols will help maintain rent affordability and how projects promote the core values of the Market, Carmody said. Eastern Market Partnership welcomes developers to join us in the journey to develop an enlarged public market district that is capable of serving Detroit for the next 128 years as the current market district has served the Detroit for the past 128 years. The announcement comes amid rapid development happening in the historic district, including the shuttering of Farmers Restaurant in March and the announcement of Russell Street Deli closing up shop in September. The owners of Farmers Restaurant closed after the owners retired and the building sold to Sanford Nelson, who is also the landlord of the building where Russell Street Deli is currently located. A key part of the organization's development initiatives to spur business growth is the 100-acre Food Innovation Zone, which would expand the market's footprint with the addition of space for food processing to retain existing companies and recruit new ones. This is about keeping thousands of jobs in the city by developing largely vacant land while improving the quality of life for existing residents and businesses who have survived decades of disinvestment, Carmody said. Earlier this year, the organization partnered with Eastern Market giants Wolverine Packing Co, E.W. Grobbel, and Germack, as well as Greenhorn Training Solutions to launch Food Industry Jobs. This sector provides the highest number of entry-level, living-wage jobs and makes up more than 20 percent of Michigans workforce, according to the market. Creating or retraining thousands of food jobs is important to offer employment opportunities to Detroit residents," Carmody said, adding that 15 Detroiters will be connected to jobs in the district within the next few months. Eastern Market also wants to help emerging food entrepreneurs get to the next level with the construction of the Metro Accelerator on Riopelle and Adelaide Streets. To occupy the 15,000-square-foot space, the partnership is negotiating with five food companies that started out in its Detroit Kitchen Connect incubator or sell their products at Eastern Market to participate in the accelerator. Lease rates will range between $7 to $11 per square foot and estimated occupancy in August. Major funders for the $3 million project are JP Morgan Chase, WK Kellogg Foundation and the New Economy Initiative. The Statue of Liberty is an iconic structure located on Liberty Island, Manhattan in New York, United States. Also known as "Liberty Enlightening the World," the Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the US to celebrate the alliance between the two countries that was formed during the American Revolutionary War. The Statue of Liberty was designed by French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, and the project was assisted by Alexander Gustave Eiffel, Viollet le Duc, and Joachim Gotsche Giver. The Statue of Liberty is currently administered by the US National Park Service and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. The statue has become a popular icon of the United States freedom, and the site is visited by roughly 3.2 million tourists each year. Statue of Liberty The statue, which is a sculpture of Libertas, a robed Roman liberty goddess, holds a torch in her right hand that is raised above her head. In her left hand, Libertas carries a tablet with the inscription "July 4, 1776" written in Roman numerals, referring to the date of the US Declaration of Independence. The height of the statue, from the ground to the top of the torch, is approximately 305 feet. Designer: Frederic Auguste Bartholdi Born in Colmar, France in 1834, Bartholdi's family moved to Paris when he was two years old following the death of his father. In Paris, Bartholdi studied sculpture, architecture, drawing, and painting. The capture of Alsace by Germany during the Franco-Prussian War stirred Bartholdi's desire to support Frances founding principle of Liberty, and he later served as an officer during the war. Bartholdi began work on the Statue of Liberty in 1870 and supervised its construction until the project was completed. Bartholdi also created another large sculpture, the Lion of Belfort, located in the city of Belfort, France. Construction of the Statue of Liberty The idea behind the Statue of Liberty is linked to to a discussion between Edouard Rene Lefebvre de Laboulaye, president of the French Anti-Slavery Society, and Bartholdi in 1865, following the end of the American Civil War and the abolishment of slavery in the US. Bartholdi developed sketches of the statue and raised 400,000 Francs for the project, and later settled on its location. The statue was built in France, disassemble it into 350 pieces, packed into 214 crates, and shipped to the US, where it arrived four months later. The reassembly process in the US was overseen by Norwegian-born civil engineer Joachim Gotsche Giver. The US was responsible for building the pedestal upon which the statue would stand, and it was designed by American architect Richard Morris Hunt. The statue was dedicated on October 28, 1886. The Labor Partys new leader Anthony Albanese has outlined a more explicit right-wing and pro-big business program following the partys debacle in the May 18 federal election. Albanese has vowed to forge closer ties to business, boost wealth creation, rather than wealth distribution, and pursue bipartisanship with the extreme right-wing Liberal-National Coalition government of Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Despite widespread popular hostility toward the Coalition, Labor was unable to make a credible appeal to large sections of youth and working people, who simply did not believe its phoney fairness rhetoric and token promises of slightly higher social spending. Now Albanese has junked that populist pitch, which sought to head off seething discontent over widening social inequality, declining working and living conditions, and worsening social services. Labor is appealing for common ground with the Coalition. Upon being confirmed as party leader unopposed yesterday, Albanese said Labor would not automatically block government legislation. Some reforms require bipartisan support, he declared. As a result of intense factional wheeling and dealing over the past week, all other leadership contenders dropped out, allowing Albanese, a leader of the partys nominal Left faction, to win without a party ballot. This was after a front-page interview in the Murdoch medias Australian last week in which Albanese described the supposed anti-business language of Labors election campaign as terrible and declared that unions and employers have a common interest. He declared: Successful businesses are a precondition for employing more workers, and that is obvious. The trade union bureaucrats certainly have a common interest with the employers. It consists of enforcing the profit dictates of the corporate elite, at the direct expense of the jobs, wages and social conditions of the working class. Successful businessessuch as Amazon, Microsoft and the banksare those that exploit workers the most ruthlessly. Albanese signalled a return to the blatant pro-corporate orientation of the previous Labor governments of Bob Hawke and Paul Keating (1983 to 1996) and Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard (2007 to 2013). I believe in a strong economy, he told a media conference yesterday. Our 27 years of uninterrupted economic growth began with Labor reform and I had a very good discussion with Paul Keating yesterday. Throughout these Labor governments, the unions worked hand-in-glove with Labor to impose sweeping financial deregulation, privatisations, job destruction and cuts to health, education, housing, welfare and other social programs, resulting in a vast transfer of wealth from the working class to the super-rich. Albanese boasted of his strong relationship with the Business Council of Australia. He also criticised the Coalition for the four worst years on record in allowing public debt to blow out. This amounts to a pledge to help further slash social spending. Like Julia GillardLabors last Left leaderAlbanese has been tasked with using his false left-wing credentials, and his support base in trade union and upper middle class inner-city areas, to impose the next wave of pro-capitalist reform on the working class. Albanese has a proven track record. He long ago dropped his left posturing of the years before he entered parliament in 1996. He was a key cabinet minister, and leader of the government in the House of Representatives, under Rudd and Gillard, culminating in his elevation to deputy prime minister after Rudds brief return as prime minister in 2013. Albanese therefore bears a particular responsibility for the program of the Rudd and Gillard governments, which banned virtually all industrial action under their Fair Work laws, aligned Australia with US plans for war against China, reopened brutal refugee detention camps on remote Pacific islands and propped up the banks and financial elite following the 2008 global economic breakdown. Significantly, despite leading Labor to a humiliating loss, outgoing Labor leader Bill Shorten sought to block Albaneses anointment. However, all the potential challengerscurrent party deputy leader Tanya Plibersek, and Right faction representatives, shadow treasurer Chris Bowen and Jim Chalmerspulled out after other leading Right figures publicly backed Albanese. According to the Australian, Albanese had given an unequivocal commitment to the Right factional bosses to steer the party back to the policy centre, which had provided the ballast for 13 years of Labor government under Bob Hawke and Paul Keating. None of the Labor leaders has the slightest difference with this pro-market, big business program. For now, they regard Albanese as the best salesman for them, fearing the eruption of working class opposition. Nevertheless sharp tensions are wracking Labor, reflected in Shortens bid to stop Albanese and Shortens insistence, as a Right Labor and union powerbroker, on retaining a central position in Labors shadow ministry. Above all, these divisions are driven by Washingtons insistence on an unconditional commitment to back the US in its escalating economic war and military confrontation with China, Australias largest export market. Shorten is a known close backer of the US. He was a pivotal figure in the backroom removal of Rudd as prime minister in 2010. Rudd, while firmly backing the US military alliance, had suggested that Washington should make some accommodation to Chinas economic rise. Shorten, along with several other key powerbrokers, orchestrated the installation of Gillard, who immediately signed up to the Obama administrations military and strategic pivot to Asia to encircle China and agreed to base US Marines in the strategic northern city of Darwin. As Albanese reiterated at last Decembers Labor Party national conference, he is a strong supporter of the US alliance. However, doubts remain over his reliability because he opposed Rudds axing. Moreover, Albanese recently defended Keatings dramatic election campaign intervention, in which the former prime minister declared that Australias intelligence chiefs were nutters who had gone berko in their hostile approach to Beijing. Albanese said Keatings remarks reflected broader concerns. This was a vague reference to the alarm in sections of the ruling class that an all-out economic war against China, let alone a military conflagration, would devastate the profits of the mining companies and other corporate giants that rely on the Chinese market, and also trigger working class opposition to a potentially catastrophic war. As another check on Albanesealongside Shortenone of Labors most fervent pro-US figures, defence spokesman Richard Marles is set to be installed, also unopposed, as deputy leader when Labors parliamentary caucus meets on Thursday. Marles, a Right faction boss, is best known for advocating, in 2016, that Australian warships and planes should conduct provocative freedom of navigation operations inside Chinese-claimed waters in the South China Sea. In a speech to the US Studies Centre last November, Marles directly accused China of challenging the global rules-based order, which was established under US hegemony after World War II, and said the US alliance had to be protected now more than ever before. Before being installed in parliament, both Albanese and Marles spent their entire adult lives as Labor careerists. Albanese was a ministerial research officer, then New South Wales Labor assistant general secretary and later a senior adviser to state premier Bob Carr. Marles was a union legal adviser, then Australian Council of Trade Unions assistant secretary for seven years. After six years of self-proclaimed unity under Shorten following Labors landslide defeat in 2013, the partys latest debacle has underscored the protracted decline in Labors previous base in the working class, and brought unresolved rifts to the surface. Albaneses hold on the leadership will be fragile. Whatever the differences, however, Labor is totally committed to serving the interests of the Australian corporate elite, including by backing the aggressive US offensive against China. The Brazilian media and the official opposition led by the Workers Party (PT) has correctly perceived in the outpouring of working-class youth on May 15 not only a threat to Bolsonaro, but to the whole political establishmentincluding themselves. Acting accordingly, they have accelerated attempts to isolate the youth from broader layers of the working class that had marked the build-up for the demonstrations, in which the original slogans against the hated pension reform were buried under toothless calls for a national consensus in defense of education designed to placate Bolsonaros right-wing bourgeois opposition. With Bolsonaros popularity falling lower than his disapproval rating for the first time this weekhe has the lowest approval rating for any democratically elected president in Brazilian history with five months in officethe strategy devised by the ruling class is twofold. While the corporate press rages against Bolsonaro for politicizing the education cuts, giving pretexts for the defiant mood of the demonstrations, the PT is attempting to isolate the youth and subordinate it to the rational opposition to Bolsonaro embodied in an alliance with the right-wing Brazilian Social Democracy Party (PSDB), which dominated the Brazilian political system with the PT for the last 30 years. Brazils most read newspaper, Folha de Sao Paulo, an unabashed defender of the education cuts and of imposing tuition in public universitieswhich are free in Braziland which recently hired the PTs 2016 presidential candidate, Fernando Haddad, as a columnist, summed up the attitude in the ruling class in an aggressive editorial following the demonstrations titled Useless Idiocy. Recognizing the anti-capitalist mood underlying the demonstrations in defense of the social right to education, it said: The Bolsonaro governments aggressive obscurantism converted the crucial debate over the financing of the public higher education system, already belated, into an ideological confrontation. The editorial rants: There must be no doubt about the deficiencies of national learning, or of the opportunism of oppositional forces that seized the moment to attack the pension reform. From the start, these operations were compounded by the actions of the PT, through the National Education Workers Confederation (CNTE), which faced with the reality that in the whole country students were planning to flock to the teachers demonstrations precisely to show them their support in the struggle against the pension reform, buried the slogans against the reform and called a national strike day against the cuts, also excluding the fight against the reform from its later reports on the demonstration. In Sao Paulos demonstration, speaking to thousands of teachers who had struck for 33 days in February and March against cuts to their pensions promoted by the citys mayorand were betrayed by their union at the hands of a bureaucracy filled with Bolsonaro supportersHaddad was silent about the reform, and set the tone of unity with the right wing, calling Bolsonaro not a fascist, but a lunatic. With a general strike set to take place on June 14, the National Student Union (UNE), controlled by PTs staunchest ally in national politics, the Maoist Communist Party of Brazil (PCdoB), called a separate demonstration for May 30, with exclusive focus on the education cuts. Meanwhile, the PT chose the aftermath of the demonstrations to make public that its representatives, including Haddad, have been holding meetings since November with representatives of the Brazilian right, including the PSDB and other parties the PT for years branded as coup-mongers for voting for the 2016 impeachment of Dilma Rousseff, to isolate Bolsonaro and create a new resistance political spectrum. This bourgeois alliance is reportedly launching a manifesto in August under the name of Rights, Now! which is admittedly designed to attract the center-right, the participants declared to the press. The host of the meetings, law professor Pedro Serrano, declared the participants will cast differences aside and build a common program, around legality, human rights, fighting unemployment and promoting identity issues (emphasis added). With the PT conscious that it, as much as Bolsonaro, is a target of the growing social opposition, these policies are a full-fledged, conscious operation to cover up the essential agreement of every party on an agenda of austerity and an increase of state powers, as attested to by countless corporate press editorials. In its own raging editorial after the demonstrations, the powerful O Globo counseled the government to temper its self-destructive behavior, very effective in creating more problems than the opposition itself. Such words make clear that, despite the mealy-mouthed charges by the corporate press that the PT is stirring up the demonstrations, the ruling classes understand that they represented a popular opposition that is beyond the control of and hostile to the self-declared political opposition. But this whole conspiracy would not be possible without the bad-faith policies of the pseudo-lefts, with their particular influence in the universities. They are fully aware that the obsessive portrayal of Bolsonaro and his pack of fascist ministers as lunatics and political aberrations, as counterposed to his rational vice-president, the coup-mongering general, Hamilton Mourao, serves only to cover up the true consensus within the Brazilian bourgeoisie over every essential issue. From privatizations to the pension reform and the assault on living standards and social rights of workers, all bourgeois political factions are agreed. From the height of their contempt for workerswhose slandering has been made a profession by the pseudo-leftsthe maneuvering is openly discussed in their press. The starkest example is a remarkable article from April 11 on Esquerda Online, the mouthpiece of the Morenoite Resistencia current functioning inside the Socialism and Liberty Party (PSOL), Brazils largest pseudo-left formation with 10 representatives in the Brazilian House. Headlined The nomination of Abraham Weintraub shows the weakness of the liberal opposition to Bolsonaro, it admits that for four months, before newly installed education minister Weintraubs predecessor Ricardo Velez was fired due to the popular outcry over his far-right positions, the party was engaged in channeling social opposition behind the right-wing opposition to the government which complained, as now, that Velez was incompetent. And it goes on to assert that the PSOLs tactics would need to change, because the same incompetence would could not be expected of Weintraub. The author writes: [T]he wide field of oppositionists to Bolsonaro have now reached a deadlock. Contrary to the chaos of Velezs administration, Weintraub will likely offer the Ministry a minimum order and make it work, concluding that the opposition will likely have nothing to complain about the new minister. At no point does the author attempt to recount the PSOLs position on the matter. The description of the wide field of oppositionists is enough as the PSOL worked as the most vocal defender of the treacherous concentration on the lunacy and incompetency of Velez common to this wide field. Now, with Weintraub coming under heavy criticism from the bourgeois media for politicizing the education cuts, the PSOL is ready to play the same role again. In his assessment of the May 15 demonstration, party ideologue Valerio Arcary made that clear it had posed Out with Weintraub as the slogan for actiona sentiment with which any number of editorialists in the corporate media would agree. As Brazilian workers and youth enter into struggle against Bolsonaro and the capitalist system that has produced him, these maneuvers must be relentlessly denounced. Nothing more horrifies the ruling classand its petty-bourgeois apologists in the pseudo-leftthan the independent action of workers. The pseudo-leftsincluding the Morenoite United Socialist Workers Party (PSTU) and the union-entrenched Lambertites of the Workers Cause Partycorrectly seeing themselves as just as much of a target of such a movement as the ruling class are all joining the PTs operation or providing left cover for it, and will do everything in their power to disorient and divert the growing offensive of workers and youth. On Wednesday, May 22, police officers in Chicago killed 22-year-old Myles Frazier after he barricaded himself in his home in the Woodlawn neighborhood on the citys south side. Frazier, who suffered from bipolar disorder, had become disturbed and agitated. His father called the police out of fear that his son was becoming suicidal when the young man armed himself with a gun. When police arrived at the home, they had been made aware that Frazier was armed and that he was in a suicidal bipolar episode. Police claim that in the process of negotiating with Frazier he fired 5 or 6 shots inside the home. CPD Officer Lt. Ozzie Valdez told reporters that the shots were fired, in the house, some that we believe came out of the residence in the area where officers were. From the information that has been made available it is unclear if Frazier fired directly at officers or if they were warning shots. No one was struck by any of Fraziers shots. The police responded to this by calling in the heavily armed SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) team to prepare a raid. After Frazier still refused to leave his home, CPD SWAT officers forced their way into the building. Two officers found and confronted Frazier when they then opened fire multiple times killing him. The officers involved have been placed on a 30-day administrative leave. The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) has opened an investigation into the killing. COPA was established by the city in the aftermath of the public outrage over the 2014 killing of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald in an attempt to improve public perceptions of police. Little information or substantial consequences can be expected from their investigation. The killing of Frazier came just two days after Democrat Lori Lightfoot was sworn in as mayor of Chicago. Lightfoot, who was the head of the Chicago Police Board and of COPA, ran her campaign claiming she would be capable of reining in police misconduct. The killing of Frazier and Lightfoots track record as head of COPA, which ruled on fewer cases of misconduct under her leadership than before and assisted in the coverup of McDonalds death, are evidence to the contrary. In all likelihood, the killing will be ruled justified by investigators as is usually that case when a victim is armed. But in this case Frazier was only a danger to himself until the conflict was escalated by the police. The event demonstrates not just the brutality of the police but the dire conditions and often deadly consequences for individuals struggling with mental health issues. In 2012, half of Chicagos mental healthcare centers were closed in an effort to cut costs. Only five such public centers remain in Chicago. The city employs just one full-time psychiatrist. Meanwhile, Chicago spends over $1.6 billion per year on the police force with a proposal to spend another $95 million on a new police academy. This evens out to more than $4 million per day while just $9.4 million is spent on mental health services for an entire year. For workers who are struggling with their mental health there are simply no options to get treatment. When pressed to the breaking point due to unemployment, low pay and other poverty conditions, those with untreated conditions like bipolar disorder are most at risk for a breakdown or suicidal tendencies. Instead of providing adequate options for assistance and treatment the state has responded to a growing mental health crisis by increasing arms and training for the police, so they can violently suppress anyone that disturbs the social order. The World Socialist Web Site reported in December that mental illness plays an important role in police killings. Those with mental health conditions were more likely to confront police than to attempt fleeing. Out of the 228 people with mental illness killed by police in 2018, 85 percent did not run away. For police, who are trained that they can exercise deadly force should they feel threatened or unsafe in any way, an erratic person in the midst of a crisis is an easy target. The house where Frazier was killed is located close to the University of Chicago, where he once held a part-time job. In April 2018 the University of Chicago police shot a student who was also experiencing a mental health crisis. In a similar case in 2017 a woman in Olathe, Kansas was killed by police after her boyfriend called 911 warning that she was armed and having a mental breakdown. In video obtained from the body camera footage officers are heard debating if raiding the house is worth the risk since no one was in immediate danger. During the conversations one officer says, word is going to get out if we walk away. The police eventually raided the house, shooting the woman dead. According to the Washington Posts Police Shooting Database, 363 people have been shot and killed by police so far in 2019. Frazier is the seventh person to be killed in Illinois. California has the most police killings of any state, with 49 deaths as of May 23. Last year, the Working Group on Syria, Propaganda and Media (WGSPM) research group reported on alleged chemical attacks in Douma last year and elsewhere during the US-led proxy war for regime change in Syria. Authors Paul McKeigue, David Miller and Piers Robinson have now examined a leaked engineering sub-report from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) confirming their exposure of propaganda concocted to support the war. Taken together the findings establish beyond reasonable doubt that the alleged chemical attack in Douma on April 7, 2018 was staged. WGSPM conclude that staging this incident entailed mass murder of at least 35 civilians to provide the bodies at one of the locations. The WGSPM report is made all the more urgent by Washingtons renewal of its threats of military aggression against Syria on the basis of fresh unsubstantiated charges of chemical weapon use just last week. The WGSPMs original report noted that the OPCWs Fact-Finding Mission in Douma only sought engineering assessments into the trajectory and damage to the gas cylinders found at two locations in October 2018. WGSPM noted the obvious anomaly that the OPCW did not explain why this was not sought six months earlier, immediately after the April 7 incident, when experts could have inspected the sites with the cylinders in situ. Instead they had relied on images and measurements obtained by others, long after the cylinders had been removed. OPCW staff members then contacted WGSPM to inform them that an engineering sub-team had in fact investigated in April-May 2018. Onsite inspections were followed by modelling analysis in two European universities. This investigation was excluded from the Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) final report, which cited only the assessments by unidentified engineering experts sought in October 2018. Claims of the use of chemical weaponry by Syrian President Bashar al-Assads government have been made repeatedly to justify US-NATO military interventions. Many claims have involved the White Helmets, set up in 2013 as a proxy of the UK and US governments to provide logistical support and propaganda for Western-backed rebels. At Douma, the White Helmets filmed themselves shouting gas and hosing down children with water at a hospital. This fabricated incident was used to justify a missile launch by US, British and French forces. Residents and doctors who came forward to say there had been no attack were dismissed by the Western press. The Douma allegations centred on the hospital incident and photographs of apartment buildings. At one location 35 victims were seen with a gas cylinder lying over a hole in the roof. Another photograph showed an apartment with a hole in the roof and a gas cylinder lying on a bed. The WGSPM report rejected claims that nerve agents were used at Douma in April 2018. Investigating the use of unverified secondary sources for claims of other alleged chlorine attacks, WGSPM showed that these came from groups associated with only one side in the conflict. It criticised the OPCW report for failing to assess other hypotheses. The engineering analysis in the final report, for example, said the unidentified experts had been asked to assess the trajectory of the two cylinders found. This implies, WGSPM explain, that they were not asked to assess whether the holes in the roof and the positions of the cylinders could be accounted for by anything other than the cylinders being dropped from the sky. The leaked engineering report reveals that the earlier assessment did consider other scenarios. At the site dubbed Location 4 in the report there were three possibilities for the cylinder lying on the bed: (i) It was dropped from an aircraft, pierced the roof, fell through the hole it had created, and bounced on its side to end up on the bed, its valve intact. (ii) It was dropped, creating a hole, landed on the floor and was subsequently placed on the bed. (iii) It was placed on the bed, and the hole in the roof was created by unspecified means before or after the placement. At the site dubbed Location 2, where the cylinder was lying on a roof terrace over a hole, two possibilities were advanced: (i) The cylinder containing chlorine was dropped from a plane, piercing the roof to form the hole, and its valve was pierced by the impact, releasing the chlorine. (ii) The cylinder was placed alongside an existing hole. At Location 4, the cylinder showed damage to its fins. Analysis showed the cylinder could not have fitted through the hole in the roof with its valve intact and fins attached. It was not possible to establish how the cylinder could have fitted through the hole with its valve intact after the damage to its fins, and how the fins could have been damaged like this. At Location 2, analysis showed that the concrete could not have stopped the cylinder falling at the required angle from a height of at least 500 metres. The cylinders front showed no signs of interaction with the concrete. The cylinder could have been stopped by steel reinforcing bars in the concrete, but this would have left indents which were not present. Impact alone could not have bent the bars to their angle away from the impact location, which was more consistent with an explosive blast. The engineering report said these factors point to the conclusion that the alleged impact event or events leading to observed vessel deformation and concrete damage were not compatible. Assessment of the craters appearance suggested it was more consistent with a mortar or artillery blast than impact from a falling object. Similar craters were found in concrete on nearby buildings. A mangled steel frame and fins were found on the terrace, but these were not consistent with the cylinders appearance. The cylinder showed no signs of having been fitted with such a frame, nor of the frame having been stripped from it by impact. The engineering report summarized: The dimensions, characteristics and appearance of the cylinders, and the surrounding scene of the incidents, were inconsistent with what would have been expected in the case of either cylinder being delivered from an aircraft. In each case the alternative hypothesis produced the only plausible explanation for observations at the scene. This alternative hypothesis is that the cylinders were put there manually. Many of the anomalies noted in the engineering report had been identified by WGSPM members from open source images. Last year WGSPM noted two points. The staging of the hospital scene is no longer in dispute, thanks to eyewitness and video evidence, as well as the 100 percent fatality rate, with no attempt at escape, which is inconsistent with recorded chlorine attacks. With the leak of the engineering report, WGSPM write, these findings establish beyond reasonable doubt that the alleged chemical attack in Douma on 7 April 2018 was staged. This leaves the question of how and where the victims at Location 2 died. Images show evidence of exposure to irritant gas, although there is no indication of any attempt to escape. There also appears to have been 100 percent fatality, unlike in other irritant gas attacks. Considering this alongside examination of the images leaves little doubt that the victims were murdered as captives. The conclusion is that staging the Douma incident entailed mass murder of at least 35 civilians. It follows that people dressed as White Helmets and endorsed by the leadership of that organization played the key role in the murder. WGSPM point out that Douma was the first alleged chemical attack to which OPCW investigators had unimpeded onsite inspection access. They earlier drew attention to the political character and provenance of the third-party witnesses who provided the information driving their conclusions, including the White Helmets. This points to the OPCW being not merely compromised, but hijacked at the top by France, UK and the US. Covering up evidence about Douma is more than misconduct, WGSPM note, OPCW staff who have suppressed the evidence of staging are, unwittingly or otherwise, colluding with mass murder. The OPCW has denied that the reports signatory, Ian Henderson, was ever a member of the FFM. Henderson, an OPCW-trained inspection team leader, was assigned to lead the investigation at Locations 2 and 4. The OPCW has suggested the engineering report was not part of the FFM investigation. WGSPM, observing that external collaboration and consultation could not have gone ahead unless authorised, are confident that the preparation of the report had received the necessary authorisation within OPCW. What happened after the report was written is another matter. For their work investigating and exposing pro-war propaganda the WGSPM group has been subjected to ongoing press vilification. Last month Huffington Post published a scurrilous attack on Professor Piers Robinson, who recently left Sheffield University. Robinson has been smeared as engaging in denial of anti-Semitism allegations in the Labour Party for saying he believed the problem has been exaggerated for political purposes in the furore over the cancelled Sheffield University meeting by MP Chris Williamson. Huffington Post quoted an anonymous Syrian PhD student at Sheffield who was relieved Robinson was not associated with the uni. The students political position was clear: Robinson was going to promote Assad anyway so he is still dangerous in the sense that hes promoting a criminal. The student insisted, The ideas that he was promoting are untrue and they cant be verified and are misleading ideas. This incoherent kettle logic is all the more remarkable because what has attracted media ire is precisely Robinsons insistence on testing and verifying patently untrue propaganda claims. The author also recommends: Washington revives Syria chemical weapons propaganda as pretext for war [23 May 2019] Washington threatens new attack on Syria amid US war buildup in Persian Gulf [22 May 2019] Just six weeks after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus right-wing electoral alliance won a majority in the 120-seat Knesset (parliament) in the April 9 elections, Netanyahus Likud party has introduced legislation to dissolve the Knesset and call a second election at the end of August. Two more votes are needed before the resolution becomes law. This unprecedented move brings to the fore the vicious factional infighting among Israels far right parties that dominate its political system, long touted as the only democracy in the Middle East. These developments portend the implosion of Israels political system and mirror the almost universal collapse of traditional bourgeois rule within ruling elites throughout the world. The possibility of new elections follows Netanyahus failure to bring Avigdor Liebermans right-wing, secular Yisrael Beytenu (Israel is our Home) party into his coalition, which is dominated by far-right nationalists and religious zealots, leaving his prospective government with just 60 seats. Lieberman was insistent that the new government support a law forcing ultra-Orthodox Israelis to serve in the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), an anathema to Netanyahus religious party partners. He refused to accept any of their attempts to soften it, saying, "I won't be party to a Halachic government," referring to religious Jewish law. Lieberman added, "We will go to elections again, and the people will determine whether they want a right-wing government or a Haredi [religious] government." He claims that there are between 20 and 25 legislators who support a state run on the principles of Jewish law. The Likud Party in turn accuse him of trying to turn the escalating row over the draft conscription law into a war over religion. Lieberman has also called for an even more aggressive military response to Hamas, the militant bourgeois clerical group that has controlled Gaza since winning the 2006 Palestinian elections. Netanyahu initiated the dissolution of the Knesset in a last-ditch attempt to put pressure on his coalition partners to mitigate their demands. Addressing the nation on television last night, he said, "I call on Avigdor Lieberman to reconsider. We still have 48 hours, its possible to do many things in 48 hours." This was a reference to the Wednesday evening deadline, as set out in the election law, for forming a government. He said that the nation voted for a right-wing government with him at its head. "In recent days, I have made tremendous efforts to fulfill the will of the people There is no reason to paralyze the nation for another year and a half and waste billions," he declared. But his threat to dissolve the Knesset is also aimed at preventing President Reuven Rivlin from calling on Benny Gantz, the former IDF Chief of Staff who, along with two other former chiefs of staff, leads the main opposition bloc Blue and White, to form a government if Netanyahu is unable to do so. Despite Gantzs demand that heas his legal rightbe given a chance to form a government, it is highly unlikely he would succeed as he has ruled out any alliance with Israels Palestinian legislators. The ultra-Orthodox and right-wing parties have refused to join a Blue and White government. The election was held amid an escalating political, economic and social crisis. Netanyahu called it ahead of schedule in a desperate gamble to outmaneuver Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit over his expected indictment for corruption for allegedly granting regulatory concessions to businessmen in return for lavish gifts or favourable news coverage. Netanyahu refused to resign the premiership despite facing multiple charges of corruption. Instead, fighting for his political lifeand his freedomhe viewed the elections as a means of derailing the attempt to prosecute him. An election victory, despite the indictment, wouldso he calculatedprovide him with a mandate to strengthen his position. Hisand Israels other corrupt politiciansget out of jail card depends upon the passage of a so-called immunity bill and a purge of the legal apparatus that would prevent the indictment of a sitting prime minister and legislators. The move towards fresh elections is also aimed at preventing the establishment of a government that is not led by him. It preempts any possibility of the president calling on another senior Likud member, such as Netanyahus rival Gideon Saar, to form a government. Saaralong with three other Likud membershas already indicated his opposition to immunity for legislators. Not only has Netanyahu failedthis far at leastto bring Lieberman on board, he has also been unable to secure agreement with any of his other right-wing partners, despite his bill to overturn existing legislation limiting the number of ministers in his cabinet in a bid to facilitate coalition agreements. They are all using his weakened position to extract the maximum concessions from him and at the expense of their rivals. To cite but one example, two of the ultra-Orthodox parties, Shas and Yahadut HaTorah, are vying for the control of the housing and welfare ministries and real power for their deputy ministers, particularly at the Ministry of Education, to secure their own support base. Crucially, Moshe Kahlon, the finance minister and leader of the Kulanu party which holds four seats, announced that he would not support a coalition made up of just 60 Knesset members because it would make it all but impossible for the government to function. With Netanyahus real agenda a war on all opposition to the dictates of Israels financial and corporate elite, including legislation to outlaw strikes in essential services. Kahlon knows he will be tasked with introducing further austerity measures in a country already wracked by social tensions. It has the highest poverty rate and the most extreme social inequality of any of the so-called developed countries, except for the United States. There have been mounting working class protests and strikes, including a recent nationwide walkout by social workers over poor pay and deteriorating working conditions. Last Tuesday, trading on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange started five hours late because of a walkout by computer operators following weeks of sanctions and work-to-rule. Last Monday, hundreds of Israels Palestinian citizens demonstrated outside the police station in Shfaram over police's failure to fight crime in their communities or protect them. Twenty-four Palestinian Israelis have been killed since the beginning of the year. On Saturday, some 100,000 demonstrators took to the streets of Tel Aviv to oppose Netanyahus attempts to pass legislation curbing the power of the High Court and allowing him to avoid prosecution. The rally, under the fraudulent banner of Defensive Shield for Democracy, was organized by Gantzs Blue and White bloc and the Labour and Meretz parties. These so-called defenders of democracy refused to extend an invitation to the Arab parties. Gantz declared rhetorically, Netanyahu is trying to turn Israel into one-man rule. We will not allow Israel to become the private property of a royal family or a sultanate. Demonstrators carried placards criticizing Netanyahu and sporting his Crime Minister moniker in various forms. Many wore Ottoman-style fez headwear and some brought portraits of Turkeys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a reference to Netanyahus creation of what they called an "Erdogan-style dictatorship." Gantz and his band of former generals are incapable of leading any fight against the corrupt right-wing clique that dominates Israeli political life. Jewish and Arab workers in Israel and throughout the region must reject the ever more corrupt, fascistic and militaristic nature of Israels political parties that mirror similar trends internationally and demonstrates the bankruptcy and reactionary dead-end of the entire Zionist project. What is needed is a unified struggle, across borders and ethnicities, to overthrow the Zionist state and the various bourgeois Arab regimes in the region and replace them with a United Socialist States of the Middle East. Italian-American auto conglomerate Fiat-Chrysler (FCA) announced a merger proposal with French automaker Renault in a press release yesterday. If accepted by Renaults board, the merger would create the worlds third-largest automaker by unit sales. The proposed deal would create a combined entity with 50 percent ownership by each companys shareholders. The deal is effectively a merger of equals, although FCAs announcement declined to use that term, perhaps wary that Chryslers unsuccessful merger of equals with German automaker Daimler in 1998 would spook investors. FCA shareholders would rake in cash immediately from a $2.8 billion equalizing dividend to offset the larger market capitalization of FCA, with a potential $280 million dividend to follow. The deal would save the new company $5.6 billion worth of estimated annual run rate synergies, according to the press release, primarily from the convergence of platforms, the consolidation of powertrain and electrification investment and the benefits of scale, the latter including a reduction of number of vehicle and engine types offered by the combined company. The deal has not yet been accepted by the Renault board of directors and must also pass regulatory and governmental hurdles, including the support of the French government, whose 15 percent stake in Renault carries double voting rights (which would not carry over under the terms of the merger). However, early indications from the Macron administration were positive. A government spokeswoman declared the deal would be good for Europe by creating a European industrial giant, suggesting the government sees merger as a possible means of bolstering the European auto industry against its North American and Asian rivals. The press release claims that cost savings will be realized without any plant closures. These assurances are simply not credible. The touted synergies from the merger cannot be realized except through a job bloodbath. One of the most likely areas to face the chopping block would be FCAs operations in Europe, which account for a small fraction of its global profits but one-third of its workforce. Many of its European plants are operating at below 50 percent capacity, and its workforce at the Mirafiori plant in Turin, Italy is currently down to an average of 7 workdays per month, according to Automotive News. Three years after the launch of the luxury crossover Levante at the plant, workers have long waits between calls to do an extra day's work to top up their net pay of around 1,100 euros ($1,230) a month. "Every three to four years we are hoping that a new model will help us turn the corner, Giovanna Treccalli, a 54-year-old assembly line worker who has been with Fiat since 1987, told Automotive News. But then after a boom we are back in furloughs or on solidarity contracts and our salary goes down by a third," she said. Two years after its takeover of Chryslers operations in North America and internationally, Fiat closed its Termini Imerese plant in Sicily, eliminating 1,600 jobs, in 2011. The next year, Fiat boss Sergio Marchionne abolished the national labor agreement, imposing local agreements at its six remaining plants in Italy, declaring that the company would align the Italian production system to the standards requested by the international competition. A merger with Renault, which does 50 percent of its business in Europe, is an obvious means by which FCA could realize cost savings in the less profitable European market through plant closures and other methods of consolidation. The proposed deal comes less than four months before the expiration of the current United Auto Workers contract, which covers more than 150,000 FCA, Ford and GM workers in the US. Both the corporations and the UAWwhose top officials took more than a million in bribes from FCA for signing pro-company dealsplan to use the massive threat to jobs to counter the growing mood of rebellion among autoworkers and extract deeper wage and benefit concessions in the upcoming contracts. The merger proposal takes place in the midst of the highest numbers of layoffs in the auto industry since the 2009 financial crisis. US assembly and auto parts makers have announced over 20,000 job cuts in the first four months of this year, three times the level from the same time last year. FCA itself has already carried out thousands of layoffs in North America, including the elimination of a shift of nearly 1,400 workers at its Belvidere Assembly plant. At Ford, roughly 7,000 salaried positions are on the chopping block as part of its $11 billion global restructuring program, while Wall Street is demanding that the company cut an additional 23,000 salaried jobs. Meanwhile, GM is shuttering five plants throughout North America and eliminating 14,000 production and salaried jobs as it ends production of less profitable models. FCA has heavily consolidated its product line in recent years around more expensive and profitable vehicles, especially Jeeps and its Dodge Ram pickup trucks. The company eliminated sedans from its offerings entirely, with Ford and GM moving in the same direction, effectively abandoning this segment of the market to Japanese and European competitors. FCA has announced that it will build a new Jeep plant in Detroit and plans to hire 1,200 new workers at its Jefferson North Assembly plant, in exchange for $300 million in incentives from the city government. A significant portion of the jobs created by this new investment will go to laid-off workers from Belvidere and other plants. More than 80 percent of the new jobs under this scheme, according to the Detroit Free Press, will start out at $17 per hour, barely above the poverty line for a family of four. A large number will also be held by Temporary Part-Time (TPT) workers, who have no contractual rights but still pay union dues. The context behind the merger proposal is the end of a decade of record profits that followed the 2009 bankruptcy of GM and Chrysler and subsequent bailout by the Obama administration. The bailout created the conditions for a profit surge by imposing unprecedented concessions, including slashing wages for all new-hires by half and expanding the hated two-tier system sanctioned by the UAW. A major factor in the worsening outlook is the sharp decline in the growth of the Chinese auto market, whose rapid expansion had been a key driver of growth in the global auto industry. The slowdown in sales has been exacerbated by the Trump administrations trade war measures. Another is the rising research and development costs associated with electric vehicles and self-driving cars, which are expected to transform the industry but which are still years away from being economically viable to mass produce. This aspect of the business has already produced many corporate partnerships and joint ventures aimed at limiting costs, such as the recently announced deal between Ford and Volkswagen to develop next-generation vehicles. The proposed FCA-Renault merger proposal is the part of the beginning of a wave of mergers and acquisitions, which has long been promoted by industry insiders such as the late FCA boss Sergio Marchionne as a means of shoring up profits in the contracting global auto market by eliminating excess capacity and redundancies, euphemisms for plant closures and job cuts. The thinking of the auto bosses was summed up in a recent article in the Washington Post by Bloomberg writer David Fickling. The car industry has become dangerously competitive, he writes. At the turn of the century, [the four largest firms] accounted for more than two-thirds of industry revenue in 2017, that had fallen to little more than one-third. The coming wave of mergers and acquisitions is the predatory expression of the logic of economic development itself. The division of the global auto industry, which employs tens millions of workers involved in every aspect of the design, development and manufacturing of automobiles, between privately owned corporations, each viciously competing for market share, financing and profits, is inherently irrational. Under capitalism, however, this contradiction is worked out through a savage attack on workers jobs and living standards in order to satisfy the demands of Wall Street and other financial institutions. The alternative to this is the forging of the international unity of the working class to fight for the expropriation of the auto giants and banks and the transformation of the auto industry into a public utility, collectively owned and democratically controlled by the working class, as part of a scientifically planned world socialist economy. The United States Army did not get the response it intended when it asked in a tweet last week, How has serving impacted you? Instead of paeans to the military, the horrific reality of war on a world scale broke through the annual celebration of American militarism over the Memorial Day weekend. By Monday night, there were over 11,000 comments in response to the US Armys question. The official lies and platitudes employed by the ruling elite and the media to exalt war were shattered by stories detailing the living hell that has been imposed on millions of lives. So massive was the outpouring of sentiment on social media that the response was covered by the mainstream news Monday night, a singular rarity on a day usually devoted to mindless jingoism. The incident even made headlines around the world, an expression of the vast global impact of US militarism. Veteran suicides, depression, violence, recurring nightmares, post-traumatic stress disorder, drug abuse, addiction, alcoholism, rape and sexual assault by commanding officers, inadequate health care, generational trauma, exposure to chemical agents, war crimes. These were just some of the nightmarish tales that emerged. Heartbreaking stories of veteran suicides were all too common. Shane Burleys story was repeated in various forms by numerous people. My best friend from high school was denied his mental health treatment and forced to return to a third tour in Iraq, despite having such deep trauma that he could barely function, Shane wrote. He took a handful of sleeping pills and shot himself in the head two weeks before deploying. Sean described what he called the Combat Cocktail: PTSD, severe depression, anxiety. Isolation. Suicide attempts. Never ending rage. It cost me my relationship with my eldest son and my grandson. It cost some of my men so much more. How did serving impact me? Ask my family. Lies used to manufacture public consent for war were also opposed. Dont fabricate enemies and shove innocent Americans into wars that kill innocent civilians, wrote one person. Youve gained nothing from all the wars combined. Its been hell for the world. For all the nauseating glorification of the military by the media and the political establishment, those that serve in the military as cannon fodder are generally economic conscripts looking for a way out of poverty and the chance for a college degree. The reality is that they end up maimed, broken and scarred, with generations of families and friends affected by the trauma. More than 5,500 veterans killed themselves last year, and active-duty military suicides were at an all-time high in 2018. More than 321 of those in active duty in the military killed themselves in 2018, with 138 in the US Army alone. A 2018 study by the Council on Foreign Relations found that recruits from families with annual incomes less than $38,400 a year made up 19 percent of soldiers. Over 60 percent of recruits come from families with annual incomes less than $61,403, and over 80 percent come from families who make less than $80,912. The study did not show the levels at which the top 5 percent or the top 1 percent participated in the wars, but they no doubt constitute a tiny minority. Numerous commenters on the US Army Twitter thread referred to the statements of Major-General Smedley Butler, who famously confessed in 1933, War is just a racket. Only a small inside group knows what it is about. It is conducted for the benefit of the very few at the expense of the masses. There is deep opposition to war in the working class in the United States and internationally. As with every other political issue, however, the real interests of the vast majority of the population are excluded from official political life. In the run-up to the 2003 invasion of Iraq, this sentiment found expression in mass demonstrations of millions of people throughout the world. Opposition to the Iraq war was channeled behind the Democratic Party, culminating in the election of Barack Obama in 2008. Extending the Bush administrations war on terror in Iraq and Afghanistan, Obama attacked more than seven countries, including Libya and Syria, and killed thousands of innocent civilians through drone warfare. The Trump administration now plans to dispatch 1,500 new troops to the Middle East and has threatened to end Iran. His administration also announced the doctrine of great power conflict, preparing even bigger military conflagrations against Russia and China that hurtle the world towards a third world war. In 2017, the Department of Veterans Affairs under the Trump administration proposed to close more than 1,100 facilities in an effort to privatize health care. While only $220 billion was allotted to Veterans Affairs for the 2020 budget, more than $718 billion was requested by the Pentagon, a five percent increase over the previous year. If the trend continues, more than $7 trillion will be spent on war over the next decade. With the support of the Democratic Party, moreover, the Trump administration is intensifying its campaign against WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange for exposing the crimes of American imperialism. The Democrats have waged their opposition to Trump largely on the demand that the administration adopt a more aggressive position against Russia and expand the war in Syria and the Middle East. The Democrats have sought to position themselves as the party of the military and the intelligence agencies, hailing as heroes such arch warmongers as the late Republican Senator John McCain. And the organizations of the complacent and privileged upper-middle class that surround the Democratic Party have become the most adamant supporters of American imperialism. The sentiments expressed in the response to the US Army tweet must and will find organized form. The mass opposition to war must be connected to the growing struggles of workers, in the United States and internationally, against inequality and exploitation. The growing support for socialism must be connected to a conscious political movement of the international working class against capitalism and imperialism. As living conditions for workers in the United States continue to decline rapidly under the weight of decades of wage stagnation and bipartisan cuts to social spending, increasing numbers of US workers are turning to selling their blood plasma in order to cover basic necessities. Billions of dollars in profits are being made in an industry that quite literally thrives on sucking the blood from workers and the poor. The US blood plasma industry has grown significantly in recent years, from just over $5 billion in global sales in 2000 to over $21 billion in 2017. According to a Market Research Engine forecast, the industry is on track to cross $44 billion by 2024. Global demand for blood plasma has risen in part due to its irreplaceable role in many important medical therapies, including for patients with antibody deficiencies and hemophilia. Blood plasma can only be obtained from donors and cannot be artificially replicated. Roughly 70 to 80 percent of global plasma supply is provided by paid donors from the United States, which, unlike the United Kingdom and other developed nations, does not ban the practice of paying donors for their blood. The United States also has fewer restrictions on how often someone can donate plasma, with donors permitted to undergo the process twice a week, every week, all year long. Plasma donations in the United States have tripled from 12 million per year in 2006 to 38 million per year in 2016, according to the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association. At the same time, the number of donation centers has doubled, from 300 sites in 2015 to more than 600 today. Blood plasma donation takes a serious toll on the health of the donor, especially for long-term, repeated donors. After a blood draw, donors can experience weakness, bruising, dehydration or fainting. A 2010 study found that frequent paid donors have lower levels of proteins in their blood, increasing their risk of infection and liver and kidney disorders. While providing plasma to those in need is a social necessity, the capitalist private profit system has endowed the practice with distinctly parasitic characteristics. The global plasma supply is provided largely by the poorest sections of the working class, driven to sell off parts of their bodies in order to make ends meet. A 2018 study by researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that states with a higher number of plasma donation centers were also more likely to have a higher population of low-income and minimum-wage workers. The study also found a higher prevalence of donation centers in states with less cash assistance available to low-income individuals. One researcher, Heather Olsen, stated that plasma donation companies are surgically placing donation centers in destitute neighborhoods. Additionally, the study noted that, due to inadequate health care coverage, Significant numbers of donors...would not be able to afford the lifesaving therapies created by their own plasma contributions. A survey conducted by the Case Western researchers at a donation center in Cleveland, Ohio, found that 57 percent of donors surveyed make more than a third of their monthly income from donating plasma. Fully 70 percent have experienced a side effect from donation. When asked what donors spend the money on, which can be as little as $30 to $50 for a donation that can be sold for $300 on the wholesale market, respondents said they largely spent money on basic necessities such as food, gas and rent. Reporters from the World Socialist Web Site spoke with donors at a donation center in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Brandon is a working-class college student who uses the donation money to cover basic necessities. Its an easy way to get money for the rent, he said. At the school I go to, Im in class with CEOs daughters and all of that. So as a blue-collar kid, Im a minority. My financial aid is good, but not good enough. I need to find other ways to get the money, and plasma is an easy way to do it. Ive been donating to this center for a couple months, Brandon continued. Back home, I was doing it for about a year. Coming from a working-class family and being a first-generation college student, theres a lot of what-ifs and unknowns. Youve got to find the money where it is. Obviously, this is a huge industry. Unfortunately, theres not much I can do. What they give me for what I donate is what they give me. Would I like more of the pie, especially since its literally me giving a part of myself? Yes. Im well aware that Im getting ripped off for this, but money is money. And obviously I dont have much of it. Brandon spoke of how social inequality drives workers and youth like himself to become plasma donors. I go to school with a lot of upper-class kids. And even though they have so much, they still fight and claw for more. Its capitalism. The upper class succeeds. The rest of us fight like hell. The political spectrum is set up to where the rich get richer and where the working class have to suffer. A lot of bills that Congress passes favor the rich, even though promises are made throughout the campaigns that theyre going to help the working class. But its going to take a lot more than one person to change that. Izzy is a student at Western Michigan University who works in the food service industry. She recently had her hours cut, so she is selling her blood plasma to cover necessities. I use the extra money on gas, groceries, things like that, she said. I know for some people, though, its like a job, and they earn a living from donation. Its sad but true. My friend works here, and she sees the same people every week. Theres a whole profit scheme, Izzy continued. They give us so little, but they get so much. Its like a typical medical industry stunt. Its the same thing with big pharma. They want you to get addicted to opioids so they sell more of them. They want your plasma because its expensive. But they dont want to pay you, so they go to the poorest places and pay the least amount they can. Izzy noted the contradiction between providing a socially necessary service and the way that service is exploited for profit. I feel okay about donating in some respects. There are pregnant mothers who need plasma, babies who need it, and kids who need it. But at the same time, I hate that Im feeding into the big pharmacy companies. Mark recently moved to Kalamazoo from Flint, Michigan. Currently Im waiting for a call back from a job, he said. Money is tight, so I came here to donate so I could get gas and food, some hygiene things, basic needs like that. I dont donate very often, but I do it when Im in a serious need. I dont like donating, because I dont like the idea of selling my blood plasma for money. But I have to do what Ive got to do, really. Mark spoke about the social conditions in Flint, which has been ravaged by decades of industrialization and the enduring water crisis. Its horrible in Flint. Its a ghost town. Theres abandoned places everywhere, abandoned houses. Theres drug addicts, drug dealers, shootings, missing kids. The whole area is bad. Theres no jobs at all. The only jobs that are really good are factory jobs, but the factory jobs dont pay what they actually should. GM is barely paying anything. Were not robots. Were not just people you can give a job to and just lay off. We have lives. We have families. We have kids. We depend on jobs. Quwanda has been donating blood plasma for over 10 years. She said that she has been fighting to get better pay for donors. For a long time, when Id go to the center I would talk to the managers about getting us more pay. It does take a lot out of us when we come out of there. We are giving our immune system away. I understand completely the whole process and what theyre using it for. I worked as a nurse for 20 years. Ive always thought that we should be getting more money, especially with what theyre getting paid from our plasma. She spoke of the debilitating effects that frequent donation has on her physical health. Ive experienced a lot of weakness. It drains you. Even on a sick day, when you really need some money, you come in here. Youre at your worst when you come out. Thats basically what you have to deal with if you need to get by. Ive done plasma donation in a lot of different cities and states, she said. Every place is different, but they still pay very low. The economy doesnt help any, and gas is high. So you have to get it from somewhere. We get gas money from here. If we need Pampers, milk for the baby, toiletries, thats what well come in here for. I think more people might come if they were giving more money. A lot of times I do feel sick and queasy afterwards. I eat and drink plenty of water, but its the simple fact that theyre taking your immune system. Its draining. The pseudo-left Podemos party has received its worst electoral results at the local, regional and European level since it was founded over five years ago, as hundreds of thousands who previously deposited their ballot for Podemos decided to either abstain or vote for the Socialist Party (PSOE). It comes barely a month after the party lost 1.5 million votes in the last general election. On Sunday, besides the elections to the European parliament, Spaniards were called to elect more than 8,000 mayors and regional governments in 12 of Spains 17 regions. The main victor was the PSOE, which was able to win the same votes at the European, municipal and regional polls. The right-wing Popular Party and Citizens did not improve their results as compared with the general elections last month, but with the support of the far-right Vox could join forces to rule in Madrid and the Madrid region. The PSOE will rule in the regions of Castilla-La Mancha, Extremadura, and the Balearic Islands. Podemos collapsed in all the polls. At the regional level, the party lost 860,000 votes and 68 regional lawmakers in the 12 regional parliaments. Podemos has lost votes, lawmakers and power in all regions. In Castilla-La Mancha, where Podemos was the key government partner of the PSOE, Podemos has disappeared. It has gone from two seats to zero, with a mere 33,000 votes. Podemos regional leader Jose Garcia Molina resigned. In the European elections, Podemos and the United Left won 600,000 votes less than in 2014 when they went in separate slates. In that year, they secured 11 seats; this time, they have been reduced to 6. Together with its ongoing programmatic lurch to the right, including its defence of forming a pro-austerity and militarist PSOE-led government, a major factor in the decline of Podemos has been the experience of workers and middle-class people with the party in numerous town and city halls. For four years, Podemos has ruled a combined population of nearly 7 million in major cities throughout Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, Zaragoza, Valencia, Cadiz, Santiago, Ferrol and A Coruna. After Sunday, of these eight, only Cadiz and Valencia remain under the control of Podemos-backed forces. Manuela Carmena lost in Madrid to the right and far-right, and Ada Colau in Barcelona is tied with the Catalan-separatist candidate of the Republican Left of Catalonia. Four years ago, they were dubbed the municipalities of change or rebel councils. There was talk of citizen debt audits to stop the payment of illegitimate debts, end building projects undertaken during Spains construction boom, end rent increases and make it harder to obtain licences to turn apartments into short-stay holiday accommodations. They also claimed they would improve ordinary workers lives, raise social spending and turn their cities into safe havens for migrants. Instead, they have become tools of the ruling class to impose austerity. In Madrid, Carmena reduced the public debt by 52 percent, including by slashing health care and unemployment benefits. At the same time, Carmena gave a green light to the construction of luxury complexes and frozen real estate projects long-sought by large banks and big property companies. In Barcelona, Colau was preparing a budget before the elections that would have cut up to 109 million from schools, libraries, theatres and health care centres. Colau and Carmena also promised to put an end to the savage annual rent increases. Instead, in the past four years, rents have increased by 36.7 percent in Madrid and 34.2 percent in Barcelona. Hundreds of working families continue to be evicted every day. Both mayors are infamous for their brutal treatment of migrant street vendors, deploying large numbers of local police to target street vendors for dispersal, arrest, and even threatened deportations. The street vendors, mainly migrants and refugees from sub-Saharan Africa, are regularly attacked by police who set up ambushes at certain metro stations and confiscate street vendors merchandise. In past years, street vendors have clashed with the pseudo-left mayors, including in Madrid in March, when riots broke out after a Senegalese vendor died of a heart attack after a police check. In Barcelona, Colau also openly attacked striking workers. In 2016, she opposed a strike of 3,200 workers on Barcelonas public metro system (TMB). When it went ahead, Colau supported a legally mandated minimum service requirement to keep trains running, helping to ensure the strikes defeat. To the eyes of many workers, the municipalities of change have become a symbol of what the pseudo-left would do in power, as demonstrated by the Syriza government in Greece and Podemoss support for a pro-austerity and militarist PSOE government. What is emerging ever more clearly is that the mounting opposition in the working class, expressed in growing strikes and protests opposing austerity, militarism and attacks on democratic rights, cannot find expression without a struggle against the pseudo-left parties. As the working class is moving to the left, the pseudo-left is scrambling is working to block the opposition in the working class to the PSOE and growing far-right danger in Europe. On Sunday night, Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias spoke at the partys headquarters without mincing a word on the results. Throughout the past weeks, he has been explicit that his aim on Sunday was to obtain the best results possible to leverage them to pressure the PSOE into forming a coalition government at national level. Last Friday, Iglesias even told EFE it was common sense that he will be minister if there is a coalition government with the PSOE. Yesterday, Iglesias recognised that the results were not good, blaming the division of the left for the bad results. He congratulated the PSOE and called for a progressive ruling bloc from towns, to regions and the national government. This signifies that Podemos could also potentially find itself in alliance with openly right-wing forces. Assessing the results, acting PSOE Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez appealed to Citizens to be willing to rule with him: The PSOE is the first political force in the country. Spaniards share the recipes that we are preparing for the Government of Spain. Where the PSOE cannot govern it will be because the right makes agreements with the far-right. This is entirely the responsibility of PP and Citizens. It will not be understood in Europe by liberal and conservative parties. I appeal to your responsibility. It is time for the cordon sanitaire on the PSOE to be lifted. We must isolate the extreme right. On Tuesday, May 28 the Sweetwater Union High School District (SUHSD) School Board will meet to approve the elimination of 82 staff and educators from the district for the 2019-2020 academic year. SUHSD, located in southwestern San Diego County, near the US-Mexico border, is the largest secondary school district in California with 29 schools14 high, 11 middle, and four adult schools. It has more than 1,500 teachers, 42,000 students, and 32,000 adult learners. Buried deep within the boards Tuesday evening agenda is item L-6, a vote on the terminations, which will include the layoffs of nine bus drivers, 29 office workers, 13 custodians, 11 instructional assistants, four information technical assistants, and two transportation attendants among others. In total, 68 identified and general classified employees will be eliminated in addition to 14 upper management positions with the aim of saving $6.4 million. While district and union officials have told teachers that they will not be affected by the cuts this year, the elimination of these positions will be deeply felt within the classrooms. Teachers will be provided fewer instructional assistants, asked to perform more of their own custodial work and have less administrative support, while students and their families will face more cuts to school bus programs. The 82 terminations only pertain to the upcoming academic year, with more to follow in the coming years as the district pursues increased austerity to offset a budget deficit of $20 million-$23 million. The Sweetwater Education Association (SEA) union began bargaining earlier this month for a new three-year contract to replace the current one, which is set to expire June 30. The SEA is pursuing contract negotiations amid revelations that the district continues to report false information about its finances and substantially underreport its debt, along with widespread allegations of fraud and mismanagement of funds. According to the San Diego Union Tribune, the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) informed the Sweetwater School District that it will end the current fiscal year with $20 million to $23 million in interfund borrowing debt, an amount far greater than the $8 million reported by the district in April. SUHSD budget deficit was initially revealed to the public in October 2018 under newly hired CFO Dr. Jenny Salkeld. However, an investigation by the San Diego Union Tribune revealed that a recently retired auditor, Frances Martinez, had discovered financial mismanagement nine months prior, in April 2018, after performing an internal audit of the districts finances. Martinez found that Sweetwaters finance department was illegally conducting wire and phone transfers of millions of dollars from the districts clearing account, a practice prohibited by state law. In a board meeting held December 17, the state Fiscal Crisis and Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) chief executive officer, Michael Fine, revealed that 302 entries in the districts accounting system were manipulated to show that the district had more money than it actually did. A December 2018 external audit by FCMAT has yet to release its full findings. An initial audit revealed evidence indicating a cover-up of the districts financial problems. Despite this, the SEA continues to negotiate, accepting without any serious challenge the districts premise that teachers must sacrifice to fill a budget shortfall, which is likely the result of fraudulent activity. Millions in cuts have already been pushed through by the SUHSD and the SEA, which, aligned with the Democratic Party, opposes the mobilization of teachers throughout the district and the state to fight layoffs, furloughs and cuts. As one educator remarked at a March SEA meeting, This board will likely be brought up on fraud charges, why should we bargain with them, why should we accept their numbers when theyre the ones who got us into this mess? Another educator posted on social media, ...all we are being told is how to deal with these cuts. I dont understand why the media, the county office of ed, and the entire world isnt asking, where is the money? No one is moving to investigate, no one is moving to interrogate, no one seems to careexcept us. In a calculated public relations effort by the board, officials led by Superintendent Karen Janney, have attempted to place the blame of the financial mismanagement on their accounting software, TrueCourse, claiming the decade-old software is outdated. However, it is not the software that can be blamed for the manipulation of line item entries. Nor can it explain the mysterious exodus of former Director of Finance Doug Martens and Chief Financial Officer Karen Michel who both retired from the district last summer as revelations of millions of dollars missing began to unfold. A few weeks ago, the Sweetwater school board voted unanimously to purchase a costly financial software management system, Infor Lawson, while defying county officials who recommended free software and insisted that SUHSD use a bidding process before purchasing. Infor Lawson will cost the district $1.8 million over the next five years for the subscription in addition to roughly $1.8 million for implementing the new software, totaling at least $3.6 million. The cost of the software alone would more than cover the salaries of all 68 staff who will be laid off, excluding upper management, exposing the degree of the manufactured crisis. Educators and staff must demand that none of these positions be cut. Mass austerity measures within the district have already taken place with the full support of the SEA. Credit recovery for students and after-school programs such as tutoring have already been cut. Additionally, career technical education and extra support teachers, known as curriculum intervention specialists, have been terminated. Just before the winter break, the SEA and the school board passed the Supplemental Early Retirement Plan (SERP) to pressure older, higher-paid teachers to accept voluntary early retirements. Claiming that the SERP would significantly offset the deficit, the SUHSD and SEA created the plan that affected thousands of students who lost their teachers in the middle of the current school year. Two unpaid furlough days for all teachers were also included in the SERP. The early retirement and furlough deal were sold to teachers by the SEA as a means of protecting jobs. Despite the claim that the SERP would protect new teachers from getting pink slips for the 2019-2020 academic year, a clause in the contract states that this can be overruled in the case of a Reduction in Force (RIF) or renegotiation with the SEA, which is currently under way. Teachers in the US and internationally are on the move, demanding an end to decades of austerity and union-backed concessions. The largest movement in decades of teachers in the US and internationally, including strikes by Polish, Mexican and Chinese teachers has taken place over the past 18 months. In the US, the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) have worked to isolate and shut down every strike before it could break out into a broader movement. It is vital that Sweetwater teachers link up with their counterparts in New Haven, California, Oregon, the Carolinas and other ongoing struggles. Teachers must build rank-and-file committees to fight austerity, demand the opening of the financial books and all union-management negotiations, and stop cuts to education staff and programs. About 52,000 teachers and some principals are preparing for New Zealands biggest-ever education sector strike on Wednesday, involving every state-run school in the country. It is the first time primary and secondary teachers have held a joint strike. Mass protests will be held to demand better wages and an end to the understaffing and under-resourcing of schools. The one-day strike reflects the deepening shift to the left by the working class internationally following more than a decade of austerity designed to make workers pay for the crisis of capitalism. Millions of teachers have gone on strike, including 70,000 so far this year in the United States. In Poland, 300,000 held a powerful 17-day strike last month, which was shut down by the unions without any demands being met. Teachers have also walked out in parts of Australia, India, Brazil, the Netherlands and many other countries. In New Zealand, primary teachers have already held two strikes last year. Tens of thousands of nurses, doctors and hospital workers staged nationwide strikes. Paramedics, public servants, transport and fast food workers have taken industrial action. Young people are also becoming radicalized: many schools were deserted last Friday as tens of thousands of students joined a second global student strike to demand action to halt catastrophic climate change. The Socialist Equality Group (New Zealand) calls for the broadest support for teachers from workers, students and youth. The struggle for decent wages and conditions, and in defence of public education and other social rights, places workers in direct conflict with the Labour Party-NZ First-Greens coalition government and its allies, including the trade union bureaucracy. Labours 2017 election promises to address inequality and poverty stand exposed as a fraud. Labour and its allies are continuing the previous National Party governments program of low taxes for the rich, starving public services and wasting billions on the military. Teachers are in the forefront of the wave of strikes internationally because they are exposed every day to the worsening social crisis. One in four children in New Zealand grow up in poverty and many go to school hungry and unable to concentrate. Schools in working class areas are underequipped and overcrowded, and lack the resources to deal with severe learning difficulties, behaviour problems, poverty-related illnesses and chronic absenteeism. Teachers voted overwhelmingly to strike after rejecting grossly inadequate offers. Education Minister Chris Hipkins says $1.2 billion has been allocated over four years, touting this as the best offer in a decade. This amounts to pay increases of 3 percent a year for three years, which does not begin to make up for the pay freeze imposed since the 2008 financial crisis, let alone the soaring cost of living, especially housing. Beginner primary teachers are paid just $47,980 a year, which equates to $23 an hour ($5.30 above the minimum wage). The government has pledged to train 3,280 extra teachers over the next four years in addition to 600 learning support coordinators. This is a drop in the bucket compared to what is needed. Each year between 6 and 11 percent of teachers, approximately 3,000-5,700, leave the profession. Nearly half of new teachers leave within five years due to stress and low pay. Teachers have demanded a $3.9 billion settlementmore than three times the governments offerincluding significantly reduced workloads and a pay increase of 15 to 16 percent. Last Tuesday Hipkins bluntly told parliament that theres not going to be any more money and the current offer to teachers was it. On May 25, he told Newshub this was because money was needed to properly fund hospitals and mental health services, fix the housing crisis and lift children out of poverty. Such claims are a complete fraud. In fact, the government reported a budget surplus of $5.5 billion last year, achieved by starving education, hospitals, welfare, housing and other public services. Meanwhile, $2.3 billion was committed to buy four new Air Force planes, and a total of $20 billion will be spent by 2030 on upgrading the Defence Force to help integrate NZ into US war plans against China. The working class overwhelmingly supports teachers, with one union survey finding 89 percent agree they deserve pay rises. The Post-Primary Teachers Association (PPTA) and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI), however, are seeking to impose a sellout. The unions are following the same playbook used by the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) during last years dispute involving 30,000 hospital workers. The NZNO isolated workers, cancelled one of two strikes, and repeated the governments lie that there was no more money, in order to push through a miserable wage increase of 3 percent per year and a promise to increase staff levels by 2 percent. The NZEI and PPTA are similarly dragging out their dispute, which has already lasted 18 months in the case of primary teachers, while emphasising that they do not want to strike. The unions had originally scheduled a strike on April 3 but this was called off in a thoroughly anti-democratic decision, using the Christchurch terrorist attack as a pretext. In a joint statement last November, NZEI president Lynda Stuart and PPTA president Jack Boyle promoted illusions in the Labour government, saying we acknowledge that they are working to try and fix the teacher shortage and lack of support for children with additional learning needs. At a press conference on May 12, Boyle indicated that the PPTA could back away from the 15 percent pay claim endorsed by its members, saying: Its not like weve decided this is the line in the sand and were going to hold fire until we get what we want. Such statements are a serious warning that a sellout is being prepared behind teachers backs. If the struggle remains in the control of the union bureaucracy, it will be strangled. For decades these organisations have suppressed resistance to the restructuring of schools along business lines, and accepted hundreds of school closures and other attacks by Labour and National governments. The Socialist Equality Group calls on workers to break from the unions, which represent a privileged upper middle-class layer, committed to defending capitalism. New organisations are urgently needed in every school: rank-and-file committees, controlled democratically by teachers and other staff. These committees need to forge links with parents, students and other sections of the working class, including doctors and health workers, in opposition to the unions, which seek to divide workers from each other. A joint struggle for a workers government and socialist policies is necessary to overturn capitalism which is the root cause of the global drive for austerity. Above all, the teachers struggle must become part of a conscious fight for socialism and internationalism, in opposition to Labour and the entire political establishment. Teachers in New Zealand should combine their strength with those in Australia and other countries who face the same crisis. The provision of high-quality public education, with well-resourced schools, fully staffed by well-paid teachers, is incompatible with a system in which everything is subordinated to the profit interests of the wealthy elite. Billions of dollars must be redistributed immediately from the coffers of the banks and major corporations to fund schools, hospitals and other services. The ruling Conservatives have suffered their worst ever election result, while Labour suffered a debacle almost as bad. Coming fifth nationwide with just 9 percent of the vote and taking just three seats, the Tories were eviscerated, suffering the largest ever loss since the party was founded in 1834. Their previous worst national performance was in the 2014 European election when they received just 24 percent, more than double that just recorded. The result comes amid an ongoing leadership election contest, following the announcement that Prime Minister Theresa May will resign on June 7. It will be seized on by frontrunners to demand a harder anti-European Union (EU) line including threatening a no deal exit. The UK vote in its entirety was refracted through a pro- and anti-Brexit prism. Tory party supporters deserted en masse to Nigel Farages recently formed Brexit Party. The far-right Brexit Party won the election outright, taking 32 percent of the vote and winning 29 of the 73 seats available. It came first in every region in EnglandNorth East, North West, East of England, Wales, West Midlands, East Midlands, Yorkshire & Humber, the South West and South Eastfailing to win only in London. It sucked up almost all the pro-Brexit vote, including from Farages previous vehiclethe UK Independence Partywhich won the 2014 European elections. UKIP lost all 24 of its seats, taking just 3 percent of the vote. The pro-EU Liberal Democrats, who campaigned as the only major party calling for revoking the Article 50 legislation governing the UKs exit, came in second with just over 20 percent of the vote (up from 13.4 percent)at Labours expense. Seen as the most consistent Remain party, the Lib Dems were able to go from their worst ever European election result in 2014, where they took just one seat, to their best result (16 seats). The pro-Remain Greens came fourth, with 12.1 percent (up 4.2 percent) and seven seats. Change UK, recently formed by eight Blairite Labour right-wingers and three Tories who defected from their parties in February, recorded a meagre 3.4 percent of the vote, not enough to win any seats. Every attempt to tabulate the vote shows a deeply divided country on the issue of Brexit, as it was in 2016. A tally of those parties standing on a pro-Remain ticketLiberal Democrats, Change UK, the Greens and Plaid Cymruequated to approximately 38 percent of the vote. The two parties supporting Brexit, and specifically leaving the EU without a deal in placethe Brexit Party and UKIPwon 37 percent. Labour saw a collapse in its vote to just 14.1 percent (down 11.3 percent), with both pro-Remain and Leave parties taking votes. According to the Financial Times, Labours change in vote share against the results of the 2016 EU referendum shows that the party performed worst in areas at either end of the Brexit spectrum. Labours vote share fell by an average of 15 percentage points in parts of Britain that had returned the highest Remain support in the referendum. But the partys vote share fell by 11 pointsthe second greatest marginin areas that had most strongly backed Leave in the referendum. In Wales, where Labour has won every national vote bar one for a century, it came third with just 15.3 percent of the vote, behind the Brexit Party and the pro-Remain Plaid Cymru. Wales voted narrowly to leave the EU. In Scotland, Labour no longer has any MEPS, suffering its worst election result since 1910. Labour lost heavily, coming fifth with less than 10 percent of the vote, behind the Greens, Lib Dems and Brexit Party. The Remain-supporting parties won nearly 62 percent of the vote, with the pro-Remain ruling Scottish National Party winning on 38 percent. In the North West of England, a Labour heartland that voted Leave in the 2016 referendum, Labour won 21 percent. The Brexit Party and UKIP took 34 percent of the vote. The pro-Remain partiesLib Dems, Greens and Change UKtook around 32 percent of the vote. In Manchester, Labour won 37 percent of the vote, while the Brexit Party (13.9 percent) and UKIP (2.4 percent) won a combined vote of just over 16 percent. Overall, the three openly pro-Remain parties won over 40 percent of the vote in the city which voted Remain in 2016. In the UKs second largest city, Birmingham, Labour won with 35 percent of the vote (77,551). This was around 25,000 votes more than the Brexit Party at 24 percent (52,953 votes). The pro-Remain parties took a larger share of the vote than pro-Brexit parties. In 2016, Birmingham voted Leave narrowly by a margin of just 3,400 votes. Pro-Remain parties also won more votes than the Leave parties in Sheffield, South Yorkshire (which voted narrowly to leave in 2016) and in Leeds, West Yorkshire, which narrowly voted Remain. As in so many places, the split Remain vote in Leeds meant that the Brexit Party still won, with Labour coming second. Under Jeremy Corbyns leadership, Labour voted at its last conference to respect the Brexit vote, while seeking an alternative to the deal put forward by May ensuring tariff-free access to the Single European Market. But, in a policy described as constructive ambiguity, failure to achieve this would lead first to a demand for a general election so that Labour could fight for its alternative Brexit or, failing this, other options, including a possible second confirmatory referendum on any deal, might come into play. Following the election, the Blairites have upped the ante, declaring that Labours vote collapse proves that Corbyns declared aim to represent both the Remain and Leave vote has failed. Labour must now not only unconditionally endorse a second referendum, but also campaign to remain in the EU, they insist. Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry declared even before the votes were counted, We should have said quite simply that any deal that comes out of this government should be put to a confirmatory referendum, and that Remain should be on the ballot paper, and that Labour would campaign to remain. On Monday, Blairite peer Andrew Adonis wrote in the Guardian, The time has come to make a second referendum our clear and settled policy, and for Labour to declare that it will lead the remain campaign. Corbyns closest ally, Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell, immediately acceded to the first demand, tweeting Monday, We must unite our party & country by taking issue back to people in a public vote." He told the BBC, We want a general election, but realistically after last night there aren't many Tory MPs that are going to vote for a general election. It would be like turkeys voting for Christmas. Corbyn stated that he was listening very carefully to both sides. The partys preference was still general election but any Brexit deal has to be put to a public vote. Corbyns failure to unite workers across the Brexit divide is not because this was a doomed venture. His real goal was not to secure class unity, but to maintain national unity in the interests of British imperialism. Despite his occasional rhetoric regarding the social crisis facing the working class, he offered no socialist alternative capable of unifying the working class against the entire ruling elite, however it is divided over Brexit. Corbyn faced all ways at once. He could never take a stand against the nationalist sentiment whipped up by the Brexit wing of the bourgeoisie, because he shares much of their nationalist agendanot only the view that the immigration associated with free movement of labour is a problem that must be curbed but the glorification of parliamentary sovereignty as the guarantor of social progress. He could never oppose the Remain wings apologetics for the EU and its pro-austerity, pro-business agenda. His line was dictated by the dominant view of the City of London, which never wanted Brexit and insisted that, if it could not be prevented, then the UK must maintain access to strategic European markets at all costs. Based on exploiting the sympathy he enjoyed among workers, Corbyn tried to assume the pose of national saviourand ended up a national joke instead. In the run-up to the EU elections, he spent six weeks ensconced in talks with May hopelessly trying to secure a Brexit agreement that would pass in parliament while clinging onto the stinking semi-corpse of the Tory Party. It is thanks to Corbyn that the Tories are still in government and busy electing a new leader. It is he who bears responsibility for continued divisions over Brexit that can only be overcome based upon a perspective for uniting British workers with their European brothers and sisters in a continent-wide struggle for socialism. Around 2,000 dockworkers began job actions at ports in Vancouver and Delta, British Columbia, Monday at 7 a.m. The workers, members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), are resisting work speedup and efforts by management to atomize operations at DeltaPort and Vanterm, which could cost hundreds of workers their jobs. But even before the strike began, the ILWU leadership was working to sabotage it. Despite the fact that talks between the union and the BC Maritime Employers Association showed no sign of progress over the weekend, and finally collapsed at 4 a.m. Monday morning, ILWU Canada issued a pathetic statement Sunday afternoon declaring that no full-scale strike would take place. Instead, ILWU Canada president Robert Ashton declared limited and targeted job action would be organized, and pickets would not be established at either port. In flagrant violation of the May 10 strike mandate, when over 98 percent of the unions 6,000 members voted to authorize a strike if contract talks collapsed, Ashton brazenly declared, Our goal is to keep the ports open with minimal disruption to trade. In the end, not even a token strike was organized. The ILWU instead ordered its members to merely observe an overtime ban. This climb-down is a further demonstration of the utter bankruptcy of the unions. Under conditions in which the 2,000 dockworkers have the power to disrupt operations at a port that contributes $5 billion to the Canadian economy every day, the ILWU is preventing any effective action. A strike by Vancouver dockworkers would resonate with workers at other ports and other sections of workers facing similar attacks, immeasurably strengthening the port workers in their struggle. Instead, Ashton and his fellow ILWU bureaucrats are holding out a begging bowl to management, urging the workers to place their trust in the bargaining process, i.e., capitulate to managements demands. The ILWUs actions have emboldened the employers association, which has already sent signals that it wants the federal government to intervene and criminalize strike action. Jeff Scott, chair of the BC Maritime Employers Association, said, Were deeply concerned about the economic impact that a potential strike could have on the economic security of Canada, and the Canadian economy as a whole. Threats to Canadas economic security have been among the favoured justifications for federal and provincial governments to ban strikes. Over recent years, dozens of anti-strike laws have been enforced by all of the established parties across Canada, from the trade union-aligned New Democrats to the Liberals, Conservatives, and Parti Quebecois. In the most recent case, Trudeaus Liberals banned a strike by 50,000 postal workers last November, which had been waged to obtain job security, oppose increased workloads, and demand higher pay. The Liberals criminalization of the strike was facilitated by the postal workers union, which, much like the ILWU, blocked an all-out strike in favour of toothless rotating regional strikes. The ILWUs refusal to permit even a token strike underscores its conscious determination to prevent the dockworkers struggle from escalating into a political clash with the Trudeau Liberals. With federal elections set for the fall, the ILWU wants to avoid a clash that could further expose the Liberals as a right-wing tool of big business. Having endorsed the Trudeau governments election in 2015 along the with Liberals subsequent embrace of the US Trump administrations nationalist and protectionist trade policies, the unions are once again gearing up to campaign for a Liberal vote in October. On Monday, a report revealed that Engage Canada, a front group for the unions, has released its first round of ads targeting Conservative leader Andrew Scheer for his anti-working class policies, while saying absolutely nothing about Trudeaus right-wing record, including his outlawing of last years postal workers strike or huge hike in military spending. The ILWU fears with good reason that a strike by dock workers, which would involve blocking all traffic into and out of the port along with appeals for a joint struggle with other sections of the working class, would win widespread support. The conditions of mounting workloads due to managements profit-driven plans for expansion, the constant demand for more competitive processes and the threat of job losses due to technological changes are issues that millions of workers across Canada and internationally can identify with. The very fact that a strike by dockworkers would resonate broadly is all the more reason for the ILWU to block it. Like unions around the world, The ILWU is terrified that a genuine struggle by dockworkers could trigger a broader movement of workers that would quickly escape its control. Vancouver dockworkers have been without a contract for over a year after the previous eight-year agreement expired in March 2018. Last year, the completion of rail upgrades increased container cargo capacity at Deltaport by 33 percent and expanded its ability to move railcar boxes by 50 percent. Global Container Terminals, which operates both ports affected by the job action, plans to construct a fourth berth at DeltaPort to increase its docking capacity. At Vanterm, which is the third largest port in North America by tons of cargo and Canadas largest port, GCT has spent the past 10 years pushing ahead with a $2 billion development program to vastly expand the ports capacity. The ILWUs sabotage of the Vancouver port worker struggle continues a pattern of betrayals. Along the North American west coast the union has presided over one concessions contract after another at ports in the US and Canada. As a result of speed-up and the use of technological innovations to intensify exploitation of the workforce agreed to by the ILWU, nine dock workers have died at the Port of Los Angeles alone since 2008 (see: Death of a Los Angeles dockworker). Due to their critical role in the global network of trade and production, dockworkers have tremendous social power. A determined strike to oppose managements demands would rapidly demonstrate that the working class has the social power to bring the global operations of multi-billion-dollar concerns to a grinding halt. The events over the past few days in Vancouver underline once again that such a struggle can only be waged independently of and in opposition to the pro-company unions. To wage a serious strike dockworkers must take the conduct of the struggle out of the hands of the ILWU bureaucrats by forming their own rank-and-file strike committees. These committees should take up the immediate tasks of stopping all work at the ports and establishing picket lines to block the moving of goods. They must also appeal for support to dock workers at other ports across Canada and internationally, and other sections of workers confronting the same attacks by big business and their government backers. This fight is in essence a political struggle. Workers confront not just a group of intransigent employers, but an entire social class of capitalist billionaires. The ILWUs betrayal of the dockworkers struggle is the outcome of its nationalist and pro-capitalist program and its close political alliance with the Liberal government. In opposition to this workers must advance their own independent political agenda. Central to this is the fight to establish a workers government committed to using the vast wealth accumulated by shipping giants like GCT and the other major corporations for the social needs of the vast majority, instead of the profits of a tiny super-rich elite. This includes putting the port and shipping monopolies under the democratic ownership and control of the working class. On Sunday, polling day in the European elections, the largest Facebook group associated with the yellow vest protests in France, with more than 350,000 members, was frozen so that members could not publish or share information in it. The group, named France in angerMap of rallies (France en colereCarte des rassemblements), is used by its members to organize locations for yellow vest demonstrations against the Emmanuel Macron government and to share news articles, political statements and videos of police violence. At 12:29 p.m. on Sunday, one of the groups administrators posted a notice informing members that following automatic changes introduced by Facebook beginning on May 6, 2019, notifications for Yellow Vest groups hardly appear, giving the impression of inactivity of the movement. The message provided instructions for members to manually override the changes introduced by Facebook to show notifications for new activity. The administrators further announced that we have been encountering major technical difficulties since this morning, without providing further information. We are not able to find a durable solution at present. We are therefore taking the delicate decision to put the group on pause. We hope for a resolution of the situation at the end of the evening. The freeze lasted until the early hours of yesterday morning. In a Facebook group, every member can post material to the groups feed, which is visible to every other member. Many group members posted comments in response to the announcement opposing Facebooks act of censorship. Some said they were able to add comments to existing posts, but could not publish or share posts. In effect, I made the change as indicated because it seemed that no one was commenting. Long live Facebooks censorship, said one. Im sure that Facebook is intentionally disrupting this group, said another. Impossible to publish and therefore to inform, replied a third. Others pointed to the recent visit paid by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg to President Macron on May 10. Since Macrons visit with the head of Facebook, I am only receiving a very small number of notifications of the page in my news feed, another wrote. Dictatorship, and its not by chance that Macron met the Facebook director. Dictatorship. No further information has been published by either the group administrators or Facebook as to the restrictions on its notifications and postings. It is inconceivable, however, that actions by Facebook to restrict information on the yellow vest group could be made without the direct participation and input of the Macron government. The Macron government and other major European states have utilized the European Union (EU) elections to intensify their collaboration with Facebook to censor the social media network, under the banner of fighting fake news and polarizing content. This is viewed as a critical feature of the drive to suppress the growth of strikes, demonstrations and other forms of social opposition in the working class, which are increasingly organized online. The yellow vest protests have been organized almost entirely on Facebook, as has the growing opposition of French teachers, who are organizing demonstrations on Facebook against the Macron governments reactionary Blanquer education reforms. A video of police tear-gassing protesting teachers in Toulouse last Thursday has been viewed thousands of times, primarily via the Red Pens Facebook group. Zuckerbergs meeting with Macron on May 10 reviewed the first half of a year-long collaborationthe first of its kind with any government in the worldin which French officials have been invited directly into Facebooks content moderation offices to analyze the material censored from users news feeds. Because what shows up in a given users news feed is determined by Facebooks own algorithms, the company and the state can control the spread of material. Zuckerberg, who has a personal net worth of US$67.3 billion, later wrote that the purpose of the meeting was to review nuanced decisions that have to be made as to how we should handle content that isnt illegal but might cause harm. In other words, it was to discuss the suppression of content that is not illegali.e., legally protected free speech. Of course, as under the tsarist censors of old, what is considered harmful is determined by the ruling class and its police agencies. The Macron governments report on its cooperation with Facebook, published to coincide with Zuckerbergs visit, made clear that harmful content is any materialincluding videos of police violence, strikes by workers and demonstrationsthat encourages or gives expression to the opposition among young people and workers to the policies of the political establishment and the unprecedented levels of poverty and hoarding of wealth by the financial oligarchy. Or, in the words of the report, Facebooks ability to determine what content is displayed on a users news feed plays an essential role in the capacity of social media networks to prevent or accentuate problems in social cohesion. The report laid out the governments strategy of making the social media platforms responsible for censoring social media. Working directly with the social media giants would have the benefit of minimizing the opening for criticisms related to the risk of manipulating information by the state, the report explains. In other words, actions would be taken by Facebook, rather than in the name of the government and its intelligence agencies, to avoid challenges to the violation of the populations free speech rights. Facebook established a censorship headquarters for this years European elections, which it dubbed its war room, in Dublin, which the Guardian newspaper visited this month. The newspaper reported on May 5 that until the vote, and for several days after, about 40 people will be hunched over screens around the clock, monitoring the shifting pace of online conversation, looking for signs of manipulation, fake news or hate speech. They are backed up by a global network including threat intelligence experts, data scientists, researchers and engineers. The supposed struggle against fake news is the justification for the unlimited censorship of news information that does not conform to the lies of the government and its propaganda mouthpieces in the corporate media. A central target of the censorship of the technology corporations, including Google, has been the World Socialist Web Site. The crackdown on social media is part of a far-reaching assault on free speech and democratic rights of the working class and the preparations for dictatorship by a ruling class that feels itself besieged by the growth of working-class struggles. Cheyenne kidnapping suspect bound over to district court Cheyenne kidnapping suspect bound over to district court CHEYENNE (WNE) A Cheyenne man accused of kidnapping a 1-year-old child and assaulting the childs pregnant mother was bound over Friday to Laramie County District Court. Mijito Johnson, 26, is facing two felony counts of aggravated assault against a pregnant woman and one count of interference with custody of a child. Following testimony at Johnsons preliminary hearing Friday, Laramie County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Lee said theres sufficient evidence to move the case on to district court. Johnson was arrested at his brothers house in Aurora, Colorado, on April 11 after allegedly striking his pregnant girlfriend multiple times and kidnapping her son. An Amber Alert was issued in Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Arizona, New Mexico and Oklahoma, prompting a multi-state search for the abducted child. Johnson was extradited to Wyoming, and is currently being held in Laramie County jail on a $15,000 cash bond. According to court documents, a Cheyenne police officer was dispatched to a possible child custody incident around 3:12 p.m. April 11. Johnson got into an argument with his live-in girlfriend over a car seat, which quickly became physical. The two began to struggle over the child, and Johnson struck the childs mother in the head with an unknown object, causing her to briefly black out and fall to the ground. The woman told officers that after she regained consciousness, she hit Johnson and asked him to leave her alone. Johnson left in his vehicle, but soon returned, eventually fleeing the area holding the child in his arms while driving the vehicle. Reporting officers observed blood on the left side of the womans face and shirt, as well as bruises on her right cheek and both shoulders. Trial for tribal judge delayed until July RIVERTON (WNE) Citing complications in childbearing, Wind River Indian Reservation tribal Judge Terri Smith, who was indicted March 19 by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the misuse of a communications center and the unlawful delivery of cocaine, has been given a later trial date than the originally scheduled June 3. Smith will now go to trial July 29 in Cheyenne. When a visibly pregnant Smith was arraigned March 27 in Lander, she pleaded "not guilty" to both charges against her. She was then released on a $25,000 unsecured bond. Smith gave birth to her second child May 2. Two weeks after giving birth, she filed a "motion to continue" which both waived her right to a speedy trial and asked for a later trial date than the June 3 appointment set by U.S. Magistrate Theresa McKee - but also an earlier one than Sept. 2 of this year. Smith wrote in her request for the continuance that she had been placed on maternity leave "earlier than anticipated in order to reduce the level of stress on me and the baby." She wrote further that "because of... the increased healing time I required (after giving birth), I have not been able to spend the time necessary with my attorney to review the voluminous discovery provided by the United States nor adequately prepare for trial." United State District Judge Alan B. Johnson granted Smith's continuance request. Devils Tower impact on local economies set at $38 million GILLETTE (WNE) A new National Park Service report shows that 468,215 visitors to Devils Tower National Monument in 2018 spent $30 million in communities near the park. That spending supported 414 jobs in the area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $38.2 million. The nations first national monument welcomes visitors from across the country and around the world, said Amnesty Kochanowski, superintendent of Devils Tower National Monument, in a press release. We are delighted to share the stories of Devils Tower and the experiences it provides. The Tower also introduces many visitors to Northeast Wyoming and all that it offers. The peer-reviewed visitor spending analysis was conducted by economists Catherine Cullinane Thomas and Egan Cornachione of the U.S. Geological Survey and Lynne Koontz of the National Park Service. The report shows $20.2 billion of direct spending by more than 318 million park visitors in communities within 60 miles of a national park. This spending supported 329,000 jobs nationally, with 268,000 of those jobs found in these gateway communities. The cumulative benefit to the U.S. economy was $40.1 billion. Man charged with felonies in knife attack LARAMIE (WNE) A Laramie man has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault and battery and one count of domestic battery for a May 18 incident in which he allegedly chased his daughters boyfriend with a knife. 40-year-old Sergio Ortega-Lopez was arrested that Saturday after an officer with the Laramie Police Department was dispatched to a house on S. 6th Street after receiving a report of a father and son who were currently in a physical altercation and one of the subjects had a knife. Ortega-Lopezs daughter told police that she got into an argument with her father after tracking him down when he had been driving around town while drunk. During the argument, Ortega-Lopez was drunk and became verbally aggressive towards her boyfriend, and the defendant called her boyfriend derogatory name (sic) several times and they began pushing and shoving each other, then punching each other, according to a police affidavit. Ortega-Lopez then grabbed a kitchen knife then began charging her boyfriend as the boyfriend ran out of the house. The daughter then called Ortega-Lopezs son, who arrived as his father was still chasing the boyfriend. The brother and defendant engaged in physical altercation and at one point her brother grabbed the knife out of the defendants hand and threw it into front yard, the affidavit states. They were both involved in a physical altercation when the police arrived. The son had a roughly three-inch laceration that he said he believed he received when he grabbed for the knife. Gillette man sentenced in poaching case GILLETTE (WNE) A Gillette man must pay $4,000 in restitution and has had his hunting privileges suspended for two years because he killed a buck mule deer with a rifle during an archery-only season last fall. Eric S. Sorensen, 42, was caught after a ranch manager called North Gillette Game Warden Kristen DaVanon on Sept. 16 after hunters on his land heard gunshots on nearby public land and later saw Sorensen with a buck mule deer, according to a Wyoming Game and Fish press release. The ranch manager then visited with Sorensen on a road, saw him with the deer and provided his license plate number to DaVanon. Sorensen and he agreed to meet DaVanon at noon. He had the deer in his possession, but denied that he had taken it with a firearm. When she met with him for a second interview that evening, he admitted shooting the deer with a rifle from a roadway. He no longer had the deer carcass in his possession, claiming that while he was removing the cape, skull and antlers the meat had gone bad. He admitted to dumping the meat along Echeta Road. DaVanon located the abandoned meat and determined most of it would have been salvageable at the time he disposed of it, according to the press release. DaVanon confiscated the deer head and cape and Sorensen was charged with waste or abandonment of a big game animal, use of a firearm during a special archery season and shooting from a roadway. In addition to the restitution, he must pay $615 in fines. There is a new political situation in Europe, Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said, adding that the European parliamentary elections have toppled the status quo. Speaking on the sidelines of a meeting of EU trade ministers in Brussels, Szijjarto said that in the next parliamentary cycle decisions would require more than the two largest groups, the European Peoples Party and the Social Democrats, sitting down with each other. The minister envisaged huge debates concerning the European Unions future, both in terms of personnel and political issues. According to the Hungarian government, none of the top candidates are suited to head the European Commission but there is hope for suitable candidates to emerge during the talks, Szijjarto said. The minister said it was important for central Europe, which he called the EUs engine of growth, to have strong representation in the blocs leadership. Szijjarto said Hungary would only back candidates who believe in an EU built on strong member states, are ready to prioritise Christian culture and want to stop, rather than organise, migration. Szijjarto noted that apart from the ruling party of Malta, Fidesz had won with the biggest margin of votes on Sunday. It was followed by parties like Polands ruling Law and Justice (PiS), Austrias Peoples Party (OVP) and Italys League party, he added. Szijjarto said Fidesz was by far the most successful member of EPP, adding that it would have the third largest number of seats within the group. The minister said this would have to be taken into consideration in the upcoming debates about the EPPs future direction. As regards the meeting, Szijjarto said any any kind of trade war and all restrictive measures [on trade] are against Hungarys interests. He said the EU was incapable of adjusting fast enough to the constant changes in the world economy and would therefore require reforms. Concerning the transatlantic trade conflict, he cited a European Commission official as saying that the US had no intention of negotiating the elimination of industrial tariffs, which the minister said was a big problem. He added, however, that it was unsurprising, noting that this was what US President Donald Trump had promised. MTI Photo: Burger Zsolt Columnists all across the political spectrum ponder the implications of the European Parliamentary election on Hungarian and European Union politics. In Sundays European Parliamentary elections, Fidesz received 52.3 per cent of votes, and will send 13 representatives to the European Parliament. The Democratic Coalition came in second with 16.2 per cent of the votes (4 seats in the EP), followed by Momentum (9.9 per cent, 2 seats), MSZP (6.7 per cent, 1 seat) and Jobbik (6.4 per cent, 1 seat). The turnout was 43.4 per cent. Magyar Nemzets Attila Ballai reads the EP election results as proof of Fideszs clear dominance within the electorate. The pro-government commentator underlines that Fidesz got more votes than all the opposition parties combined, who will send only 8 representatives to the European Parliament. Ballai explains Fidesz landslide victory in terms of clear vision of the governing party on keeping Hungary for Hungarians and Europe for Europeans. As for the opposition parties, Ballai argues that support for the Democratic Coalition surged because former PM Gyurcsanys party was the only one with a clear vision on the Left. In Magyar Hirlap, Sandor Faggyas believes that the EP election strengthens PM Orbans power position in Hungary as well as in Europe. Hungarian voters have mandated the Hungarian Prime Minister to defend Hungarian interests and defend Christian culture on the European political scene against multicultural, pro-immigration and imperial socialist-liberal forces Faggyas writes. Index.hus Gabor Miklosi suspects that despite his landslide victory, PM Orban cannot be fully satisfied. The liberal commentator suggests that anti-immigration populist parties in Europe have gained less seats than PM Orban had hoped, and therefore it is unlikely that they will become more important power players within the EU. As a result, PM Orban will face a tough decision on whether to remain within the European Peoples Party, Miklosi adds. He deems it possible that Mr Orban will decide to compromise and remain in the ranks of the powerful EPP to see if and when what Miklosi calls the far-right in Europe gains further traction. Miklosi also thinks that the Prime Minister may nonetheless decide to quit the EPP, in order to explain to his power base future cuts in EU funding and further criticism, as proof of the pro-migration and anti-Christian ideology of the Brussels elites. In 24.hu, Peter Peto writes that the EP election has rewritten the balance of power on the Left. The left-wing columnist suggests that opposition voters have turned away from their traditional parties and opted for new ones that harshly reject the rule of Fidesz. Peto suspects that the MSZP, Jobbik and the LMP are on the way to nowhere. As for the broader implications of the EP election on Hungarian politics, Peto thinks that in light of their results, the opposition parties will need to re-negotiate the conditions of their cooperation in the autumn municipal elections. 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: Monus Marton Celebrating recent results and the expansion of its system to cover the entire countrys public parking areas, parking app Parkl will offer its users a one-time free parking offer on Thursday. On May 30, the app offers free parking on a single occasion, up to a HUF 2,000 total cost, in Budapest but also right across the rest of the country. To activate the special discount, users need to enter the code "PARKL1" into the Settings/Coupons menu on Thursday. The app will automatically use the code during the next parking, resulting in free parking, according to the company. Parkl was originally launched to fill a market gap by providing a solution to find empty parking spots in parking garages. The app also simplifies entering and exiting garages by automatically opening barriers. Parkl has some 80 car park partners in Budapest. Since then, however, the company has decided to broaden its portfolio by introducing Parkl e-vehicle chargers in garages in parallel to extending the number of car parks where Parkl app can be used for cashless parking. The public parking function was launched this year, allowing users to settle parking fees through the app in all zones in Hungary. Photo courtesy of Parkl 97-Year-Old Grandma Goes to Her First Prom and She's Named Honorary Prom Queen! Helen Danis, 97, Goes to Prom for First Time After waiting 80 years to go to prom, a 97-year-old grandmother finally got her wish. Helen Danis of West Warwick, Rhode Island, couldnt afford to go to her own prom as a teenager, according to NBC affiliate WJAR, but last week she was finally able to wear a ball gown and went as her granddaughters date. I couldnt keep up with the kids, Danis told the news outlet about her high school days. I didnt really fit in. We were in the middle of a depression and money was scarce. It was a few months ago when Julie Huddon got permission from the principal at Pilgrim High School to take her grandmother to prom at the Rhodes on the Pawtuxet. Danis, who took a trolley to the venue, according to the news outlet, danced to Hully Gully, Cupid Shuffle, and the Cha-Cha Slide with students and was even named Pilgrim High Schools honorary prom queen. WHDH Huddon told WJAR that her goal is help Danis check things off her bucket list. Together, the two have been doing a lot of things that she has said she wanted to do. She added: She sat on Santas lap for the first time in December. I never know about her shes full of surprises. Huddon first surprised her grandmother with a crown and a note asking her to be her date. Shes mentioned a couple times about not being able to go to her prom, she told WJAR. As soon as I gave it to her, she loved it. Anonymous Content has joined forces with The Imitation Game (pictured) director Morten Tyldum and Norwegian producer Guri Neby to launch Anonymous Content Nordic. The new venture will be spearheaded by Neby, a producer at Oslo-based Einar Films, and will focus on developing and producing premium content for the international and Nordic markets. As managing director of the company, Neby will be responsible for building a team and overseeing all operations. Related stories Steve Golin, Prolific Producer and Founder of Anonymous Content, Dies at 64 Cary Joji Fukunaga, Nicole Kassell to Make 'The Last of the Mohicans' Series There is no geographic limit to great storytelling, said Anonymous Content partners in a statement. There are so many incredible creators throughout the world and we are thrilled to partner with Morten and Guri on Anonymous Content Nordic to help bring this wealth of stories to a global audience. Some of the first projects set up at Anonymous Content Nordic include a hybrid series developed with Norwegian music-comedy duo Ylvis and their production company Concorde TV, and a scripted series based on Maja Lundes bestselling novel History Of Bees. Other projects in the pipeline include series based on Karoliina Korhonens popular comic book Finnish Nightmares and Bobbi Peers YA book series William Wenton. Tyldum said the new banner will help bridge the gap and bring Norwegian and other Nordic stories to a global audience. Neby, meanwhile said there is an incredible richness of talent within the Nordic community which gets more and more attention from outside our borders. This collaboration allows us to develop and finance great local material into unique visual content. Were excited to open up this venture to support writers and creators in Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland, said Neby, who added that Anonymous Content Nordic will be protecting the right-holders and the local DNA of the projects. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. CANNES Programmed by Frances Association for the Diffusion of Independent Cinema, Cannes ACID section turned its spotlight this year on Argentine cinema. As access to talent creative and crews becomes a predominant challenge for producers worldwide, given the huge production demand driven by global platforms, the radar can hardly be spread too wide in search of young emerging writer-directors Rich in talent and benefiting from a distinguished national cinema heritage, Argentinas independent sector faces, however, the immediate challenge of finding an audience in and outside its domestic market. ACID, a parallel section at Cannes, provided an invaluable international platform. Related stories Latido Films Announces 'Hotel Coppelia,' and a Swathe of Cannes Sales (EXCLUSIVE) How Quentin Tarantino Saved Cannes, While Abdellatif Kechiche Set It Back a Decade One of three features in its Argentine focus, Sangre blanca (White Blood) marks the sophomore feature of Barbara Sarasola-Day (Belayed). It also underscores how much upscale foreign-language cinema is developing a genre edge. A drug trade-thriller and father-daughter drama, it turns on Martina (Eva De Dominici) who becomes a drug mule, crossing the Bolivia-Argentina border with partner Manuel, Holing up in a hotel, Manuel dies when the cocaine capsules explode inside his body. Under pressure from the traffickers. Martina seeks help from her father, whom she has never met. Sold by Pascual Conditos Primer Plano, White Blood is produced by Federico Eibuszyc and Sarasola-Days own Pucara Cine, lead producers on Benjamin Naishtats Rojo, one of the best-received Latin American movies of last year, as well as Varsovia Films, co-headed by Diego Dubcovsky whose credits include The Motorcycle Diaries and Cesc Gays Truman. The ACID Argentina focus was organized in partnership with Argentinas PCI Association of Argentine Film Directors. Variety chatted to Sarasola-Day. Story continues Frontiers have often proved extremely attractive for stories. What did you find of inspiration in them for White Blood? Im interested in borders in general: Theyre territories of tension, negotiation and meeting but, above all, the materialization of an imaginary limit. I wanted White Blood to be a film about borders; the geographical space in which the film occurs obviously, but also taking to the the limit a father-daughter relationship, as well as playing with the border between drama and genre. Do you feel its a major departure compared to Belated? With this film, I moved away from Belated. But at the same time there are certain questions that are once again present. White Blood is a drug-thriller, but the interest in dysfunctional familial relationships is there too. I was interested in digging into a genre, trying something different from what Ive already done. I dont know whether to think about it as evolution or more a necessity to try something different to what Ive done. I think it has more to do with curiosity and a thirst for adventure. At Cannes, Argentina became an official member of European co-production fund Eurimages. What could be the impact on independent production in Argentina? The incorporation of Argentina into Eurimages is very encouraging and an important step to those of us who are used to making international co-productions. In Argentina co-productions with Europe are already quite frequent, so this will be a great help and open up the possibility of coproducing with countries with which we previously didnt have opportunities or specific [bilateral] pacts. What are you working on now? Im researching and writing a new project. The working title is Little War. Its about a family of English origin, mostly made up of women, living in Salta, northern Argentina, in 1982, during the Falklands War. And as a producer? Wearing my producers hat, along with Federico Eibusyzc, my partner at our production company, were working on Benjamin Naishtats new project, The Copper Rose. Its an adaptation of Roberto Arlts The Seven Madmen. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Photo credit: Tom Williams - Getty Images From Esquire Some day, I hope to be invited to attend the daily morning meeting of the Republican congressional caucus so that I can observe the ping-pong ball lottery by which they choose who will be the most colossal dick that day. Last week, when everybody was heading for the beach, the winner apparently was Congressman Chip Roy of Texas. After five months of wrangling, the House was ready to pass by unanimous consent a $19.1-billion aid package aimed at making semi-whole the victims of every sort of natural disaster from wildfires and floods to lava flow and typhoons. Unfortunately, the consent was not unanimous. Roy objected and the aid bill went dormant again. (Roy's objections included his disappointment that the package didn't contain any money for the president*'s big, stupid wall.) On Tuesday, Congressman Thomas Massie of Kentucky did the same thing. From Politico: Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), who objected to the bill's passage during a voice vote, demanded that the vote be held after the House returns from recess next week - making it all but impossible that President Donald Trump can sign the package before early June. "If the Speaker of this House felt that this was must-pass legislation, the speaker of this House should have called a vote on this legislation before sending its members on recess for 10 days," Massie said on the floor, flanked by fellow conservative, Rep. Alex Mooney (R-W.V.), who also objected to the bill's passage. Of course, it was before the Memorial Day recess that Roy did his thing, so what Massie is saying there is an insult to the intelligence of a dust bunny. He held up this aid because he wanted to take a shot at Nancy Pelosi and the current House majority. Georgia Republican Senator David Perdue leapt to the electric Twitter machine to call Massie's action "pathetic." Photo credit: Bill Clark - Getty Images Massie and Roy are both exemplary products of the kind of legislator produced by the modern conservative movement, and of the partisan dynamic that made someone like the current president* inevitable. Massie was last seen gobsmacking John Kerry at a congressional hearing in which Massie went long on climate denial. And Roy enlivened a recent hearing into Big Pharma by going completely up the wall in defense of the pharmaceutical industry's price gouging. From Elle: Story continues I just cannot understand why we are spending time sitting here listening to people lecturing companies about making money. I hope you make a lot of money...But can we dispense with the ridiculousness of hostility toward profit? To sit here an attack the capitalistic system that produces and distributes medicine that is saving lives around the world? I mean it is just offensive... So now, if you're a Nebraska farmer, and your barn floated off in the general direction of Oklahoma City five months ago, you have to wait at least another couple of weeks before you get any help from your national government, and that of course depends on whose ping-pong ball pops up in the morning. Jesus, these people... Respond to this post on the Esquire Politics Facebook page here. ('You Might Also Like',) January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to recognize the importance of giving blood and platelets while honoring those who roll up a sleeve to help patients in need. To celebrate, Dunkin of Greater Philadelphia is teaming up with... French pay-TV giant Canal+ Group said late Monday that it is acquiring M7, an independent pay-TV company with operations in Benelux and Central Europe, for a purchase price of slightly over 1B euros ($1.12B). This is the largest overseas deal that Canal has done in about two decades and comes as the group faces increasing pressure from rival Netflix. M7 will give Canal access to markets where it is not currently present, and provide a pipeline to exploit its original productions and its vast 6,000-title film library. M7 is an aggregator and distributor of local and international channels via satellite and OTT platforms, but does not produce its own IP. Each year, Canal invests more than 3B euros into content production, and via Studiocanal is a major player in European films and series with a presence in the UK, Germany, Spain and Scandinavia. Related stories McG's Sci-Fi Feature 'Rim of the World' Crashes Into Netflix UK Top Spot With 'Dead To Me' Holding Steady In Second M7 has a presence in the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania where it has a total of 3M subscribers. The acquisition will lift Canals subscribers to about 20M worldwide. With turnover of more than 400M euros, M7 currently distributes major national channels as well as leading international labels, including Disney Channel, HBO, Eurosport, National Geographic and Nickelodeon. Maxime Saada, Chairman of the Canal+ Group Executive Board, said, This major operation will allow us to strengthen our distribution capacity in order to leverage content originating from our library and our numerous production operations in Europe. Saada further told Le Figaro that the acquisition of M7 is not a substitute for the group, and its parent Vivendi, to create a so-called Southern European Netflix. While the process has taken longer than planned, the determination remains the same. M7 is owned by private equity firm Astorg and the deal is subject to European Commission approval. Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. CBS News correspondent Errol Barnett is married! British-born Barnett, 36, tied the knot with his fiancee Ariana Tolbert, 25, in Jamaica on Saturday, May 18. Barnett and Tolbert, who reside in Washington D.C., said I do at the Round Hill Resort in Montego Bay in front of family and friends. Thankfully, the tropical rains cleared out for the sunset ceremony and it made for a truly special moment, Barnett said in a statement to PEOPLE. A crane even landed in the waters behind us and watched along! I am so lucky to be here and start a life with Ariana. Errol Barnett's wedding | Victoria Heer Photography Errol Barnett's wedding | Victoria Heer Photography A rep for Barnett added, The happy couple are thankful to family and friends who flew from places as far away as England to be with them. According to the rep, Jamaica was chosen because Barnetts grandparents on his fathers side are from there. They moved to England as part of the Windrush generation after WWII since his Jamaican grandfather served with the Royal Air Force (RAF) at the time. They have since passed but the couple had a memorial table honoring them and Tolberts grandfather Otis from Arkansas. The couple shared handwritten vows at the ceremony as Tolberts mother and father, Patricia and Otis Tolbert, sat front row and Barnetts godparents, Jeanette and Blu Jones, watched from behind them. Tolberts maid-of-honor, sister Sabrina, officiated the nuptials and Barnetts brother Danny served as best man. Ariana Tolbert | Victoria Heer Photography Errol Barnett and Ariana Tolbert | Victoria Heer Photography Errol Barnett | Victoria Heer Photography For her special day, Tolbert donned a Pronovias Atelier custom-made, strapless dress with removable sleeves; multiple hidden bustles allowed for her train to be attached instead of being held or flowing. Barnett sported a custom-made suit by Suit Supply Georgetown with accessories from Tie Bar, Washington, D.C. RELATED: All of the Celeb Couples Whove Tied the Knot in 2019 Ariana Tolbert and Errol Barnett | Victoria Heer Photography Errol Barnett and Ariana Tolbert | Victoria Heer Photography Over the weekend, the journalist shared multiple photos from the newlyweds wedding. Story continues I am so lucky for the special day Ariana became my #wife. She is an absolute stunner and I am still buzzing, Barnett captioned a photo of Tolbert. Thanks to @victoriaheerphotography for capturing our special moments. #ErrolandAri forever! . . . . . . #bridalbeauty #seasidewedding #destinationwedding #weddingdress #blackgirlmagic #justmarried. Errol Barnett and Ariana Tolbert | Victoria Heer Photography Tolbert also shared a snapshot of the couple holding hands on their wedding day, which she captioned, one week down, forever to go. After returning home from their destination wedding, their 18 month old Shih-Poo puppy Remy welcomed them home to Washington this week, his rep said. Del. Woman Bludgeoned to Death in Her Sleep by Jealous Husband Angry She Had Talked to Ex Life Sentence For Man Who Beat Girlfriend to Death in 2016 A Delaware man will spend the rest of his life behind bars for the brutal 2016 murder of his girlfriend, who was beaten to death as she slept. Steven Pierce, 45, was sentenced last week to life in prison plus 25 years following his conviction in April for the first-degree murder of Heather Stamper. Pierce, an Elsmere resident, was also found guilty of possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony. A press release from Delawares Department of Justice states Pierce bludgeoned Stamper to death in July 2016 as she slept in her bedroom. Investigators found Pierce became jealous believing that Stamper, 31, of Delaware City, was speaking to an old boyfriend, the release explains. According to authorities, Stamper died as a result of blunt force trauma. Steven Pierce | Delaware State Police 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. Police arrested Pierce the day after the murder, after he called 911 and said hed discovered her shot with her wrists cut. State investigators learned that, hours after the killing, Pierce went to a friends home and discussed his crime and potential punishment. This is my last night of freedom, Pierce told an unnamed witness. I am going to be a lifer come tomorrow. Prosecutors also presented evidence at trial indicating Pierce asked an acquaintance if he could borrow a gun to kill Stamper. Pierces attorney did not respond to PEOPLEs request for comment. An online obituary says Stamper enjoyed reading and taking long walks, and that she loved dolphins and pink daisies. Heather will be missed by all that knew and loved her, the obituary reads. Universals DreamWorks Animation has unveiled first-look images of Marooned, the latest title in its burgeoning short films program. The film is produced by Jeff Hermann, just attached to produce Tom McGraths The Boss Baby 2. Directed by Andrew Erekson,Marooned world premieres on June 11 at Frances Annecy Intl. Animation Film Festival as part of a DreamWorks Animation feature presentation which has now been expanded, to offer a first look at Trolls World Tour, the sequel to Trolls, which earned $347 million worldwide. Related stories Disney Shares New 'Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2' Scenes at Annecy Film Review: 'Mirai' Part of a muscular DreamWorks Animation Annecy presence, hosted by president Margie Cohn, the DWA feature presentation will also showcase excerpts from Abominable, written and directed by Jill Culton, as previously announced. Hermann and Erekson, a story artist on How To Train Your Dragon, will both attend the Annecy presentation. Billed as a stylized look at a not too distant future, Marooned turns on C-oR13, a cantankerous and selfish robot stranded at an abandoned lunar outpost, who longs to return to earth. With a partially built ship and his last power resources, he will stop at nothing to achieve his goal, the official synopsis runs. But his character and his mission will be put to the test, it adds, when he learns what it is to be truly selfless. The first-look key stills bring out CoR13s very human plight and very human story. Ungainly, heavy on its rollers,CoR13 looks like it belongs to an early rudimentary generation of robots. Hes been on his own a long time: Theres rust on his bodywork. Hes also utterly alone: the background is of black space,, not the reassuring earth, and hes running out of time, dependent on a small battery: Most to the point, hes been mistreated, regarded as useless: When the mission abandoned the lunar outpost, it abandoned CoR13 as well. But, the film seems set to suggest, when he receives care, attention and respect, he can pay back in kind. Story continues Marooneds score is by Irish composer Amie Doherty, one of eight finalists in the inaugural Universal Film Music Composer Initiative: DreamWorks Animation, aimed at identifying up-and-coming composers with a view to creating original scores for two DreamWorks Animation short films as well as enhancing awareness of new composers among executives, producers and directors. The worlds foremost animation festival and industry gathering, Annecy has proved a major sounding board in recent years for animated shorts and the new talent attached to them. World premiered at Annecy in 2012, Paperman became Walt Disney Animation Studios first Academy Award winning short in 43 years. Two further cases in point are Bilby and Bird Karma, the first titles in DWAs shorts program, which was developed and launched by Hermann. Last year, they received their world and European premieres respectively at Annecy. Bilby, about a rabbit-bandicoot in the Australian outback learning to be a father, went on to win Siggraphs Jurys Choice Awards. Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake will revise their roles as Poppy and Branch in Trolls World Tour, a sequel to the 2016 hit which scored Timberlake an Oscar nomination for his song Cant Stop the Feeling. In the sequel, the trolls learn that they are only one of six tribes, each specialists in a different musical genre: Funk, country, techno, classical, pop and rock. The all-star cast of returning voice actors will be bolstered by the additions of Kelly Clarkson and Sam Rockwell. Trolls co-director Walt Dohrn takes the reigns solo this time and will be in Annecy promoting the film, set to release in the spring of next year. Producer Gina Shay has also returned for the sequel. Writer-director Jill Culton who presented an in-progress take on Abominable for DWA and Pearl Animation at last years fest, producer Suzanne Buirgy and co-director Todd Wilderman will give a more detailed look at the Himalayan-set adventure scheduled to launch on Sept. 27. A China-U.S. co-production, the feature turns on Yi, a big city teenager who commits to helping a young yeti reunite with its family. In TV, DreamWorks Animation will host an Annecy roundtable on June 13 headed by chief creative officer of TV Peter Gal, which includes a first look at the new Fast & Furious animated series by producer Tim Hedrick, a showcase for the studios popular Netflix series She-ra and the Princesses of Power by Noelle Stevenson; and an unnamed upcoming project from producer Rad Sechrist. The studios Amazon Prime Video Original Kung Fu Panda: The Paws of Destiny plays in this years Annecy TV competition as well. To celebrate the success of the How to Train Your Dragon film trilogy, the festival has teamed with director Dean DeBlois, who shared world-first footage at last years Annecy edition, as well as artists who worked on the films, to create an exhibition of nearly 200 pieces of artwork, currently on display in Paris, which will make its way to Annecy for the festival. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. There are a lot of timeless movie monsters, but Godzilla, in the dozens of Japanese films that featured him, always raised a metaphysical question: Was this 165-foot-tall, beady-eyed, radiation-breathing T.-rex-meets-lizard-king, with bony sculptured plates running down his back and skin like raggedy carpet, an awesome creature to behold despite the cheesiness of the special effects that created him? Or because of the cheesiness? The answer (which is very Zen) was, of course: both at once. Thats the essential Godzilla principle. You knew, somewhere deep inside your reptile brain, that you were seeing not a gargantuan nuclear dinosaur laying waste to Tokyo but a man in a monster suit trashing a miniature train-set mockup of Tokyo. All of which made Godzilla a little fakey and a little funny and, when I was growing up, watching him on a black-and-white TV set in the late 60s and early 70s, weirdly comforting. But that tacky/innocent edge-of-camp quality also cut to the essence of what was spectacular about Godzilla. There was an honest wonder to this scowling giant (and he was touching, too), because the primitive ingenuity of the effects made it feel like you were seeing the ultimate creature-feature puppet show. To watch Godzilla was, and still is, to lose yourself in make-believe. Related stories Millie Bobby Brown Calls Her Film Debut in 'Godzilla' 'Kind of Unreal' Box Office: 'Godzilla: King of the Monsters' May Smash $50 Million-Plus in Debut The beauty of the 2014 American reboot of Godzilla is that it was a special-effects lollapalooza as advanced, in its way, as a Marvel epic that used digital technology to recreate that analog aura of rubber-suited, flying-dragon-on-a-string primitivism. And the sleight-of-hand trick was, in itself, awesome. The movie stayed true to the cheeseball splendor of the original kaiju films even as it turned them into retro pop poetry. It was a monster movie for the child in us all. Story continues So is Godzilla: King of the Monsters, but Gareth Edwards, who directed the first film (and went on to make Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, one of the rare artistic knockouts in the Star Wars franchise), didnt stick around to direct this one. And Michael Dougherty, who now takes the reins, isnt the same kind of bravura pulp magician. He gets the job done, staging a movie that, at its best, makes for a giddy and satisfying clash of the titans. You wont feel cheated; at stray moments, youll feel the wonder. But for every high point, theres a moment when the thrill threatens to leak away. This isnt a Godzilla sequel that throws one or two additional monsters into the mix. Its a full-blown, shoot-the-works, open-the-floodgates-and-let-it-rip primeval-beastie blowout, like a remake of the 1964 Japanese orgy Ghidorah, King of the Monsters which, in effect, it is. Its the third film in Legendarys MonsterVerse, coming after Godzilla and Kong: Skull Island, but Ill be damned if I could tell you how it advances the larger narrative. Were now all set up for Godzilla vs. Kong, coming in 2020, but if you told me that the next film in the franchise was Party with Megalon, it would make about as much sense. In addition to Godzilla, the new movie revives a number of the fabled creatures from the classic kaiju era. Theres King Ghidorah, the gargantuan winged serpent-hydra who first appeared in Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster, and who still swings those three elongated necks around like the lightly bobbing limbs of a marionette, though his heads have been redesigned so that they curl back like fiery 50s car fins. There is Rodan, the dragon crossed with a pterodactyl, who here gets updated into a kind of demon hawk. And there is Mothra, always the most bizarrely angelic of the kaiju creatures (as well as the star of my all-time favorite Godzilla film: Godzilla vs. The Thing, as it was once titled in the U.S.), who starts off as an angry larvae and then metamorphoses into a luminous moth of lyrical vengeance (though I did miss, from the earlier films, the way Mothras flapping cardboard wings could produce hurricane gusts). As long as these creatures are up onscreen, I remain more happy than not, and Dougherty does his best to carry forth the style of towering beasties clashing by night that Gareth Edwards raised to such a pitch of grandeur. Yet this movie feels more prosaic and less magical. The monster battles set at night, lit by blue phosphorescence, get a little visually sludgy, and you may start to long for some daylight clarity for those moments when you can sit back and gawk at Godzilla and just sort of behold him. The kaiju films, once you got past the early classics, often tied themselves in knots trying to decide which creature was a friend or foe to mankind (and why), and Godzilla: King of the Monsters turns that theme into a lot of blockbuster cud-chewing. Too much of it. The first film had Bryan Cranston to lend it some panache, and the void he left is now filled by Vera Farmiga and Kyle Chandler as Emma and Mark Russell, a divorced pair of scientists who lost their son during Godzillas 2014 destruction of San Francisco (the last time the monster has been seen). Emma, along with Mark, is the co-inventor of the Orca, a bio-sonar device that synthesizes the cries of various titans into a sound that can communicate with them. Youd think that Emma was one of the good folks, but when she and her 14-year-old daughter, Madison (Millie Bobby Brown), are kidnapped by Jonah Alan (Charles Dance), a former British Army colonel turned eco-terrorist (he wants to get his hands on the Orca), their agendas actually line up. Emma is pro-titan, which might sound sympathetic, but shes so pro-titan that shes become a fanatic. Sounding a lot like Thanos from the Avengers films, she declares that to restore the karmic ecological balance of things and deal with issues like overpopulation, the titans should be allowed to run wild, destroying what they want; then the planet will regain its equilibrium. The trouble is, Vera Farmiga is too level-headed an actress to deliver this stuff as if she believes it, so it just sounds like nutcake raving. Theres a lot of B-movie boilerplate in King of the Monsters, like the opening half hour, which is fairly deadly. And all the debate about whether mankind should stand with the titans or not doesnt come down to much, since its ultimately revealed that Ghidorah no, this is not a spoiler, its movie mythology thats 55 years old is an alien presence who puts out a kind of siren call to control the other creatures. The film leaps around from one Monarch outpost to the next (China, Colorado, Bermuda, Mexico, Antarctica), and while that provides some geological diversity its fun to see Rodan emerge from a Mexican volcano, or Ghidora (dubbed Monster Zero until they figure out who he is) frozen in a giant tomb of polar ice it deprives the plot of a center of gravity. Complaining about the storyline of a Godzilla movie may seem beside the point, since even the best of the Japanese films (including, yes, the restored, de-Raymond Burr-ed, original 1954 Godzilla) were, in a word, schlock. Yet they were schlock haunted by a weirdly masochistic metaphor. The fact that the films saw Godzilla as a stomping nuclear god made the apocalypse he caused seem like some terrible act of fate. In Godzilla: King of the Monsters, the metaphor has shifted: Its all about government conspiracy and ecological balance (the titans are part of the earths natural defense system!), which can make your brain glaze over. Most of the actors spend the movie yammering on in an overly standardized disaster-movie mode of much-intensity-about-nothing, though Ken Watanabe, as the venerable Monarch scientist Dr. Serizawa, evokes a little of the old Godzilla reverence. A lingering question: Is it my imagination, or does it look like Godzilla has been hitting the dessert cart? Im not merely speaking about his distended belly. The creature has been designed so that his head and neck, which used to resemble the top of the letter f, now sort of melt right into his torso. As a result, his face no longer pops in the same vivid anthropomorphic way. And thats a miscalculation. If Godzilla looks a little chunkier than before, so be it, but you dont want to watch a Godzilla movie thinking that his personality is slightly out of focus that for all the agreeable destruction he causes, hes not quite the same dude. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Karlovy Vary Intl. Film Festival, the leading movie event in Central and Eastern Europe, unveiled its competition lineup Tuesday with a geographically diverse selection, which includes 10 world and two international premieres. Cambodia-born British filmmaker Hong Khaou brings the follow-up to his critically acclaimed Sundance debut Lilting with a moving drama about a young man of Vietnamese descent rediscovering his roots in Monsoon, starring Crazy Rich Asians actor Henry Golding. Related stories Big World Takes U.S. Rights to Karlovy Vary Winner 'Barbarians,' Berlinale's 'Aga' (EXCLUSIVE) Karlovy Vary to Pay Tribute to Vladimir Smutny, Youssef Chahine Germanys Jan-Ole Gerster follows his well-received debut, Oh Boy, winner of the European Film Academys European Discovery Award, with the world premiere of Lara, a psychological study starring Corinna Harfouch. Kara Hayward, best-known for Moonrise Kingdom, stars in U.S. director Martha Stephens 1960s Oklahoma-set drama To the Stars, which premiered at Sundance and makes its international premiere at Karlovy Vary. Spains Jonas Trueba combines lightness and charm with intense existential emotions, according to KVIFF, in August Virgin. The film centers on thirtysomething Eva, whose inner turmoil is soothed by fleeting encounters and unexpected adventures during Madrids August fiestas. The Philippines Dwein Baltazar delivers the bitterly comic Ode to Nothing, about a funeral parlor owner who develops a highly unusual relationship with an unidentified corpse. Chinese director Zhai Yixiangs Mosaic Portrait centers on a pregnant 14-year-old girl, whose revelation of the childs father causes a shock. The young helmer crafts an unsettling image of the injured heroine, who remains proud and strong. Eastern and Southeastern Europe are represented by a trio of films by recognized filmmakers. Story continues In Half-Sister, Slovenias Damjan Kozole, best director winner at the 2016 Karlovy Vary for Nightlife, combines compassion and humor reminiscent of the central films of the Czechoslovak New Wave. Bulgarian directorial duo Kristina Grozeva and Petar Valchanovs intimate family drama The Father follows on the footsteps of The Lesson, which won the best new directors prize at San Sebastian, and Glory, which won an award at Locarno. Slovak cinema is represented by Marko Skops Let There Be Light, a gripping drama about a father who discovers that his son is a member of a paramilitary gang. Skops debut feature, Eva Nova, picked up a Fipresci prize at Toronto. Belgian filmmaker Tim Mielants presents the bitingly ironic yet gentle debut film Patrick, set in a naturist campsite. A second feature debut in main competition is Chilean Felipe Rios psychological road movie The Man From the Future. Returning to KVIFFs competition section three years after My Fathers Wings is Turkeys Kvanc Sezer with his absurdly humorous look at life crisis in La Belle Indifference. The 54th edition of the festival runs June 28-July 6. OFFICIAL SELECTION COMPETITION The Father (Bulgaria, Greece), dir: Kristina Grozeva, Petar Valchanov. World premiere. Patrick (Belgium), dir: Tim Mielants. World premiere. The Man from the Future (Chile, Argentina), dir: Felipe Rios. World premiere. La Belle Indifference (Turkey), dir: Kvanc Sezer. World premiere. Lara (Germany), dir: Jan Ole Gerster. World premiere. Mosaic Portrait (China), dir: Yixiang Zhai. World premiere. Monsoon (U.K.), dir: Hong Khaou. World premiere. Let There Be Light (Slovak Republic, Czech Republic), dir: Marko Skop. World premiere. Ode to Nothing (Philippines), dir: Dwein Baltazar. International premiere. Half-Sister (Slovenia, Macedonia, Serbia, Croatia), dir: Damjan Kozole. World premiere. To the Stars (U.S.), dir: Martha Stephens. International premiere. The August Virgin (Spain), dir: Jonas Trueba. World premiere. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. MADRID Madrids Latido Films, one of the Spanish-speaking worlds top sales companies for arthouse and crossover films, acquired world sales rights to Dominican director Jose Maria Cabrals in progress Hotel Coppelia. The news comes as Latido has revealed a slew of sales on top titles. Their number suggests a larger depth to this years Cannes Film Market, allowing the company to push out two dozen or more deals in largely major territories. Related stories How Quentin Tarantino Saved Cannes, While Abdellatif Kechiche Set It Back a Decade Cinefondation-Prized Valentina Maurel Prepares Feature Debut, 'Garden on Fire' The Realm, the latest feature from Oscar nominated Rodrigo Sorogoyen (The Mother) and Spanish Academy Award submission Champions lead many of the sales with The Realm going to Somos in the U.S., Impacto in Argentina, Vision in China, A-Z Films in Canada and Cineplex in Colombia, Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. Cabrals Hotel Coppelia is inspired on the true stories of five women who, during the 1965 Dominican Civil War, made tremendous personal sacrifice to protect their own liberties. The female-lead cast includes Platino Award-nominated actress Nashla Bogaert, Lumy Lizardo, Cyndie Lundi, Jazz Vila and Nick Searcy. This film represented a new set of challenges for me, focusing on a fresh story about marginalized groups that resisted the evil abuse of power during a crucial historic event in the Dominican Republic, said Cabral of the nearly-finished film. He added: People know about the heroes that fought in the War through documentaries and textbooks. But few may know the dire struggles of many anonymous women who, despite their social and economic conditions, questioned authority and fought for their freedom. Produced by Lantica Media and Tabula Rasa, Hotel Coppelia is from the director of Sundance competition feature Woodpeckers, which notched awards at Guadalajara and the Toulouse Latin American Film Festival. Story continues We have followed Jose Marias career for some years now as he is becoming one of the leading voices of Caribbean cinema, and we are proud to finally be able to collaborate with him on this his most ambitious project yet, Latido executive director Antonio Saura told Variety. Also, this marks the second collaboration with Lantica, a dynamic studio out of Santo Domingo, in what we hope can be a long term collaboration. VP of production at Lantica Media and producer Rafael Elias Munoz said in a written statement: Jose Maria is a unique filmmaker and an exciting voice in Latin-American cinema, one highlighting the struggles of a population in search for empowerment or redemption. We are very proud to have had the opportunity to support his vision. To make this journey with our friends at Latido makes it all the more special to us. In other announced sales, Champions, like The Realm, sold to Somos in the U.S.A as well as A-Z Films in Canada with Champions remake rights going to Remake and Co. in France. As announced by Variety, Hari Samas This is Not Berlin went to Samuel Goldwyn in the U.S. In early pre-sales, The Platform was licensed to Activers in Korea, The Klockworx in Japan, Edko in Hong Kong and Creative Century in Taiwan. The Goya Murderers was also picked up by Activers in Korea and The Klockworx in Japan, as well as by Rosebud in Greece and Wild Bunch in France. Animated feature Bunuel in the Labyrinth of the Turtles was scooped by Joint in Taiwan and Edko in Hong Kong. Japans Pictures Dept. and Taiwans Joint snagged Virgin & Extra; the later also bought Joel. Finally, The Best Summer of My Life went to Alucine in Central America, and The Weasels Tale to Edko in Hong Kong and Russian Report in Russia. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. If twos a crowd and threes a party, then an ensemble cast of some of the hottest new talent in Hollywood is a full-on rager. Booksmart, the directorial debut of Olivia Wilde that EWs own critic called riotous, offers up the possibility of a breakout star to the power of at least 10. The coming-of-age comedy follows Molly and Amy, two book-smart (duh) students in an L.A. suburb who are intent on spending their last night of high school chasing a wild party dream they never realized they had, and puts its young talent front and center. Beanie Feldstein and Kaitlyn Dever take the lead, joined by Billie Lourd (Gigi, the party girl), Skyler Gisondo (Jared, the party bro), Molly Gordon (the aptly named Triple A), Noah Galvin (George, the lead drama queen), Austin Crute (Alan, his partner in crime), Mason Gooding (Nick, Mollys crush), Victoria Ruesga (Ryan, Amys crush), Diana Silvers (Hope, the pretty one), and Nico Hiraga and Eduardo Franco (Tanner and Theo, the skaters). Youve probably seen a few of them before Lourd in Scream Queens and American Horror Story, Dever on Last Man Standing, Gordon as Melissa McCarthys daughter in Life of the Party, and Feldstein in Neighbors 2 and Lady Bird and, as the cast recently explained to EW, they were in each others orbits well before Wilde brought them all together. Molly [Gordon] and I were best friends for 13 years or something like that, Feldstein said. So for us to be in this movie together, its so insanely meaningful for us. I fully cried [at the premiere] in London. And Billie and I went to high school together but were in different grades. The two never became friends as children despite similar orbits (Feldstein is Jonah Hills younger sister, and Lourd is the daughter of Carrie Fisher), and similar overlap is evident among other cast members: Gordon and Galvin have done theater together for years, Ruesga and Hiraga went to skate camp together, and Gooding grew up Hollywood-adjacent as well (he is Cuba Gooding Jr.s son). Story continues Booksmart as a whole has a kind of kismet to it, whether its the films long journey to the big screen or the all too on-the-nose casting. Dever was the first to jump on board, and describes herself and Feldstein, pre-Booksmart, as ships passing in the night. I had read this script about four years ago, and I had been waiting for this movie to be made, she told EW. It felt like an eternity. Both Beanie and I were cast before we met we never read together and Olivia just had so much faith in us. It was like the missing puzzle piece was finally there. Feldstein, describing the first moment they were in the same vicinity (at the Toronto Film Festival), adds: Kaitlyn was in pink, like a vision. She walked out of the room as Im walking into a room and I was like, oh! Since most of the movie takes place at different pre-graduation parties, the young cast spent most of their time on night shoots which can spell either disaster or caffeine-and-sugar-fueled bonding in between scenes. With the Booksmart cast, it manifested as the latter (Lourd recalls countless hours in a bed wearing faux fur, making up beautiful rap songs until 6 in the morning with Gordon and Haraga), and the result is a a group of young actors with an enviable bond. Dont believe us? When they visited the EW studios, we put them to the ultimate screen test (watch above and below for more). Squad goals indeed. Related content: Hollywood giant Netflix, which has a $155 billion market cap, will rethink its entire investment in Georgia should an anti-abortion law take effect, Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos said in a statement obtained by TheWrap.We have many women working on productions in Georgia, whose rights, along with millions of others, will be severely restricted by this law, Sarandos said. Its why we will work with the ACLU and others to fight it in court. Given the legislation has not yet been implemented, well continue to film there while also supporting partners and artists who choose not to. Should it ever come into effect, wed rethink our entire investment in Georgia.A spokesman for Netflix declined to provide TheWrap with a tally of productions or the amount of money it currently has invested in Georgia. Series Ozark, Insatiable and the movie Holidate are currently in production in the Peach State.Also Read: Netflix Acquires 'Atlantics' and 'I Lost My Body' Following CannesGeorgia is not the only state where some legislators are lobbying for laws that could limit a womans reproductive rights its just the one with the largest presence of Hollywood productions. Several producers have said they will no longer film in Georgia due to the political climate there.Earlier this month, the states governor, Brian Kemp, signed a bill that aims to outlaw abortion after the detection of a fetal heartbeat.Georgia is an (otherwise) attractive alternative to Hollywood due to the states liberal tax incentives for TV and film productions. Turner is headquartered in Atlanta.The Sarandos statement was first published in Variety.Read original story Netflix Will Rethink Our Entire Investment in Georgia if Anti-Abortion Law Goes Into Effect At TheWrap Hollywood giant Netflix, which has a $155 billion market cap, will rethink its entire investment in Georgia should an anti-abortion law take effect, Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos said in a statement obtained by TheWrap. We have many women working on productions in Georgia, whose rights, along with millions of others, will be severely restricted by this law, Sarandos said. Its why we will work with the ACLU and others to fight it in court. Given the legislation has not yet been implemented, well continue to film there while also supporting partners and artists who choose not to. Should it ever come into effect, wed rethink our entire investment in Georgia. A spokesman for Netflix declined to provide TheWrap with a tally of productions or the amount of money it currently has invested in Georgia. Series Ozark, Insatiable and the movie Holidate are currently in production in the Peach State. Also Read: Netflix Acquires 'Atlantics' and 'I Lost My Body' Following Cannes Georgia is not the only state where some legislators are lobbying for laws that could limit a womans reproductive rights its just the one with the largest presence of Hollywood productions. Several producers have said they will no longer film in Georgia due to the political climate there. Earlier this month, the states governor, Brian Kemp, signed a bill that aims to outlaw abortion after the detection of a fetal heartbeat. Georgia is an (otherwise) attractive alternative to Hollywood due to the states liberal tax incentives for TV and film productions. Turner is headquartered in Atlanta. The Sarandos statement was first published in Variety. Read original story Netflix Will Rethink Our Entire Investment in Georgia if Anti-Abortion Law Goes Into Effect At TheWrap A meteorologist for Fox 45 in Dayton, Ohio snapped at viewers who complained on social media about a tornado warning that interrupted Monday nights broadcast of The Bachelorette, saying that the cutaway was due to a dangerous situation.I was just checking social media, we have viewers complaining already. Just go back to the show. No, were not going back to the show, folks. This is a dangerous situation, okay, Jamie Simpson said during the live broadcast.Simpson scolded viewers who cared more about who Hannah Brown would give the next rose to than to a dangerous weather situation, which has caused massive damage to the region.Also Read: NYC's NBC Weatherman Drops F-Bomb During Live 'Today' Broadcast (Video)Think about if this was your neighborhood. Im sick and tired of people complaining about this, Simpson said. Our job here is to keep people safe, and that is what were going to do. Some of you complained that this is all about my ego. Stop. Its not. Im done with you people, I really am, this is pathetic.Fox 45 did not immediately respond for a request for comment. However, Simpson did apologize later in the broadcast.Alright, Im sorry I did that, it just really bothers me that we have people that dont care about other peoples safety around here, Simpson said.Also Read: Brad Pitt's Depressed Weatherman Returns to 'Jim Jefferies Show' (Video)Fox 45, or WRGT-TV, is a dual Fox and MyNetworkTV affiliate owned by Sinclair, which also owns ABC 22 in Dayton, which airs The Bachelorette.Watch the video of the situation above.Read original story Ohio Weatherman Snaps at Viewers as Tornado Warning Interrupts The Bachelorette (Video) At TheWrap A meteorologist for Fox 45 in Dayton, Ohio snapped at viewers who complained on social media about a tornado warning that interrupted Monday nights broadcast of The Bachelorette, saying that the cutaway was due to a dangerous situation. I was just checking social media, we have viewers complaining already. Just go back to the show. No, were not going back to the show, folks. This is a dangerous situation, okay, Jamie Simpson said during the live broadcast. Simpson scolded viewers who cared more about who Hannah Brown would give the next rose to than to a dangerous weather situation, which has caused massive damage to the region. Also Read: NYC's NBC Weatherman Drops F-Bomb During Live 'Today' Broadcast (Video) Think about if this was your neighborhood. Im sick and tired of people complaining about this, Simpson said. Our job here is to keep people safe, and that is what were going to do. Some of you complained that this is all about my ego. Stop. Its not. Im done with you people, I really am, this is pathetic. Fox 45 did not immediately respond for a request for comment. However, Simpson did apologize later in the broadcast. Alright, Im sorry I did that, it just really bothers me that we have people that dont care about other peoples safety around here, Simpson said. Also Read: Brad Pitt's Depressed Weatherman Returns to 'Jim Jefferies Show' (Video) Fox 45, or WRGT-TV, is a dual Fox and MyNetworkTV affiliate owned by Sinclair, which also owns ABC 22 in Dayton, which airs The Bachelorette. Watch the video of the situation above. Read original story Ohio Weatherman Snaps at Viewers as Tornado Warning Interrupts The Bachelorette (Video) At TheWrap Bucks County Recorder of Deeds reflects on her time in office Paris Brosnan is doing his part to help raise awareness about childhood hunger in Sri Lanka. A burgeoning filmmaker, the 18-year-old son of Pierce and Keely Shaye Brosnan recently traveled to Sri Lanka to document firsthand how one program is making a huge difference in the lives of both local children and on the regions economy. Travelling to Sri Lanka was an amazing opportunity for a young filmmaker, says Paris, who captured in a short film and in photographs the ongoing work being done in the South Asian island country by the UN World Food Programme (WFP). With crucial support from Clarins and FEED, a social impact-driven brand founded by Lauren Bush Lauren, WFP is delivering nutritious food to Sri Lankan school-aged children. I was drawn to Clarins and FEEDs mission to help solve childhood hunger through school feeding, Paris tells PEOPLE. This school meals program gives children a sense of belonging, community, and an education. Paris Brosnan with Christian Courtin-Clarins and Lauren Bush Lauren | Clarins Paris Brosnan with children in Sri Lanka | Clarins While in Sri Lanka, Paris visited schools and farms to see up close how WFP connects local farmers with its meals program that ultimately helps both undernourished students and supports the local economy. RELATED: Pierce Brosnans Son Paris Creates Video to Encourage Youth to Register and Vote I feel inspired to develop more socially relevant projects utilizing the resources I have and to create a platform that gives back to our global community, says Paris. This isnt the young Brosnans first advocacy effort. In 2018, Paris wrote, directed and produced Your Voice Matters, a video encouraging youth to register and vote. Launched in 2011, the FEED and Clarins partnership has supported organizations like WFP, helping fund over 30 million school meals by the end of this year. This year, the partnership is focused on Sri Lanka. For all Clarins purchases made today, World Hunger Day, Clarins will donate 10 meals to the FEED Sri Lanka school meals program. Five years after his abdication, King Juan Carlos I of Spain is retiring from public life. The 81-year-old royal shared his plans to withdraw from public duties in a letter to his son, King Felipe VI, according to El Pais. In Juan Carlos letter to Felipe IV, which was shared by La Zarzuela, reveals that the former king has been considering his retirement since his 80th birthday in Jan. 2018. The recent celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Spanish Constitution in Congress in December confirmed his decision. [It was] a solemn act, full of emotion for me, that evoked, with pride and admiration, the memory of the many people who made the political transition [to democracy] possible and renewed my feeling of permanent gratitude toward the Spanish people, the true architect and leading protagonist of that transcendental stage of our recent history, King Juan Carlos said in the letter. King Juan Carlos and King Felipe of Spain | Carlos Alvarez/Getty RELATED: Happy 15th Anniversary, Queen Letizia and King Felipe! The Best Photos from Their Extravagant Royal Wedding King Juan Carlos final official act was the presentation of the Spanish Order Awards 2019 in the San Lorenzo de El Escorial Royal Monastery on May 17, when he handed the prestigious prize to historian Miguel Angel Ladero. His final royal trip was to Chile in March 2018, accompanied by his wife, Queen Sofia. Queen Letizia, King Felipe VI, King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia of Spain | A. Ware/NurPhoto via Getty Juan Carlos retirement will officially begin on June 2, exactly five years after his abdication. The former Spanish king reportedly wanted to pass the job onto his son before Felipe, 51, grew old comparing the situation to Prince Charles nearly lifelong wait to be king. He reportedly spoke to Rafael Spottorno, chief of the royal household, and said: I do not want my son to wither waiting like Prince Charles, according to El Mundo newspaper in 2014. Cant get enough of PEOPLEs Royals coverage? Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! Prince Charles and Queen Elizabeth | Tim Rooke/REX/Shutterstock In a rare move, Queen Elizabeth publicly backed Charles as the next Commonwealth leader in April 2018. Story continues The monarch, now 93, formally asked the Commonwealth Heads of Government to appoint her eldest son as her successor of the association of Britain and its former colonies. Queen Elizabeth has been the groups symbolic figurehead since 1952. Leaders were expected to discuss who should follow her in the role. The position is not hereditary, but Prince Charles is expected to get the nod. (As the Queens firstborn, Charles is the hereditary heir to the British throne, which he will automatically inherit upon his mothers death.) It is my sincere wish that the Commonwealth will continue to offer stability and continuity for future generations and will decide that one day the Prince of Wales should carry on the important work started by my father in 1949, the Queen said at the formal opening of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting at Buckingham Palace. Charles father, Prince Philip, also publicly retired from public life in August 2017. The Duke of Edinburgh will no longer undertake his own program of public engagements, a statement from Buckingham Palace read. The Captain Generals Parade will bring His Royal Highnesss individual program to a conclusion, although he may choose to attend certain events, alongside The Queen, from time to time. Utah Woman Accused of Smothering Stepdaughter After Planning Attack Days in Advance Utah Woman Accused of Smothering Stepdaughter to Death A Utah woman has allegedly confessed to planning and then smothering to death her three-year-old stepdaughter. McKenley Jordan Yadon, 24, was charged Friday with first-degree aggravated murder and second-degree child abuse in the March 2019 death of Arianna Rose Stout. The case came to police attention on March 14 when Vernal City police officers responded to a medical assist call of a choking child. When officers arrived at the Vernal home, the child was unresponsive, not breathing, and cold to the touch and had dark purple and black bruising in front, on top, inside and around her left ear, according to an affidavit of probable cause obtained by PEOPLE. The girl was taken to Ashley Regional Medical Center where she died an hour later. A medical examiner concluded on May 23 that the girl died of asphyxia due to smothering. It is clearly a tragic situation, Assistant Chief of Police Keith Campbell tells PEOPLE. Arianna Stout | Facebook According to the affidavit, police arrested Yadon after the autopsy results and she allegedly admitted that she smothered the girl with a blanket in her bed and that she had been planning her death for days. RELATED: Daycare Worker Sentenced to 70 Years for Smothering Baby, Calling Her a Little B McKenley stated she had been planning and thinking about doing this act for two or three days prior to March 14, 2019, the affidavit reads. McKenley allegedly gave detectives a detailed account of how she allegedly smothered the child and the childs body movements and struggle during this event as she maintained consistent force over [the girls] airway, according to the affidavit. 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. She allegedly told detectives that she maintained this force for four to five minutes and then once the child was dead she waited 10 to 15 minutes before she called a friend who she provided an inaccurate account of events, thus resulting in the initial 911 call, according to the affidavit. Story continues Arianna Stout spent every other weekend with her grandmother, Christina Cook. RELATED: Chris Watts Smothered His Daughters, Strangled His Wife She was just the most beautiful little redhead angel that was born, Ariannas grandmother Christina Cook told FOX13. This is just something I wouldnt wish on anybody, not even my worst enemy. Its just unbearable. It really is. Its unbearable. Yadon was booked into Uintah County Jail where she remains on no bail. It is unclear if she has entered a plea or retained an attorney. A hearing is scheduled for June 3. Yo Gotti emerged victorious in his legal battle against an auto shop he accused of crashing his Lamborghini during a joy ride. According to court documents obtained by The Blast, an Atlanta jury sided with the rapper following a trial and awarded him a total of $66,300. The jury found an Atlanta auto shop, Motorcars [] Yo Gotti Yo Gotti emerged victorious in his legal battle against an auto shop he accused of crashing his Lamborghini during a joy ride. According to court documents obtained by The Blast, an Atlanta jury sided with the rapper following a trial and awarded him a total of $66,300. The jury found an Atlanta auto shop, Motorcars of Georgia, was partly liable for the $390,000 in damage to his 2012 Lamborghini Aventador. The jury found them only 17% liable for the crash that basically totaled Gottis whip. The trial stems from the 2016 lawsuit filed by the rapper (real name: Mario Mims) accusing the auto shop of damaging his Lamborghini Aventador after their employee got into a crash while taking the car for a joy ride. Yo Gotti bought the car for $409,198.70 and claimed to have used the Lambo to promote his persona and brand. He even used the car in his lyrics and prominently featured it in a 2015 video. He transported the car to Motorcars of Georgia for maintenance and repair services related to the cars accelerator, clutch, and transmission. The rapper said the deal never allowed MOG or their employees to operate the Lamborghini outside of their facility for any purpose other than the requested maintenance and repair services. Gotti accused one of their employees of driving the car and then getting involved in a crash with a tractor-trailer. Motorcars denied allegations of wrongdoing and said the accident was caused by third parties outside their control. Celebs and their cars The post Yo Gotti Awarded $66,300 in Court Battle Over Damaged Lambo appeared first on The Blast. Tornadoes slam suburbs of major Ohio city; 60 million people still under severe weather threat originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Three massive tornadoes that tore through Ohio, including the suburbs of one of the state's largest cities, leveled homes and entire apartment complexes Monday night and knocked out power and water to tens of thousands of people. Two of the devastating twisters, both rated by the National Weather Service as EF3s on the Enhanced Fujita scale, struck the Dayton, Ohio, suburbs of Beavercreek and Trotwood, carving out a hopscotching path of damage that left people scrambling for their lives. The third EF3 tornado ripped through Celina, Ohio, about 80 miles northwest of Dayton, damaging or destroying numerous homes there, officials said. Two other smaller tornados also touched down in the state Monday night, according to the weather service. "I don't know that any community is fully prepared for this type of devastation," Dayton assistant fire chief Nicholas Hosford said Tuesday on ABC's "Good Morning America." PHOTO: Residents of the Trotwood neighborhood West Brook inspect the damage to their homes following powerful tornado, May 28, 2019, in Trotwood, Ohio. (Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images) The National Weather Service said more than 50 tornadoes were reported in the United States over Memorial Day weekend and that severe weather was threatening 60 million Americans Tuesday afternoon from Texas to New York. Monday marked the eleventh consecutive day where multiple tornadoes were reported in the United States, according to the NWS. Despite the widespread destruction assessed during a tour of the Dayton area at daybreak, Hosford said there were no reports of fatalities in Dayton or the adjacent communities. Dayton fire chief Jeffrey Payne said only three people suffered minor injuries in Dayton, where tornado damage was reported in the north part of the city, which has a population of about 140,000 people. But officials at area hospitals said they treated a total of 64 people from Dayton and the surrounding communities. "We have homes flattened, entire apartment complexes destroyed, businesses throughout our community where walls have collapsed," Hosford said. Story continues Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, who surveyed the damage from a helicopter, said it was "shocking." PHOTO: Residents and volunteers help clear debris from damaged homes resulting from a tornado storm system, May 28, 2019, in Brookville, Ohio. (John Minchillo/AP) DeWine said he will immediately begin the process of declaring a state of emergency and will ask the federal government for disaster relief. One storm-related fatality occurred in Celina, according to the Mercer County Emergency Management Agency. Celina Mayor Jeffrey Hazel told ABC affiliate WKEF-TV in Dayton that an 81-year-old man was killed when a vehicle was thrown into his house. At a noon news conference with Gov. DeWine, Hazel added that at least 40 homes in Celina were destroyed or damaged by the EF3 tornado that generated winds of up to 140 miles per hour. In Pendleton, Indiana, about 100 miles west of Dayton, 75 homes were damaged by the storm, which also caused multiple gas leaks, officials said. In Harrison Township, about 5 miles north of Dayton, fire chief Mark Lynch said at a news conference that the town appeared to be hit by "World War III" and that it will take "several years of rebuilding." Standing in front of a collapsed Family Dollar Store in Harrison Township, Montgomery County Sheriff Rob Streck said his deputies responded to numerous calls for help late Monday night and into Tuesday morning. "There were numerous calls where people were trapped in their homes and law enforcement would have to go to the scene," said Streck, adding that several deputies were hurt in the rescue efforts, some from stepping on nails. Streck has a warning for anyone thinking of looting damaged homes: "They are going to my jail and then they're going to be prosecuted." The tornado that slammed Dayton knocked down the steeple of the New Life Worship Center as 25 people sought shelter in one of the church's restrooms, survivors said. PHOTO: Storm damaged homes remain after a tornado passed through the area the previous evening, May 28, 2019, in Brookville, Ohio. (John Minchillo/AP) "It was the scariest 15 seconds of my life," Blake Gifford, one of the people who took shelter in the church restroom, told WKEF. He said conditions went from "dead quiet to a jet engine taking off" when the twister touched down. "I was praying, asking God to keep us safe," Gifford said. "We're lucky, we're lucky to be here." At one point, more than 70,000 people across Ohio, including 50,000 in the Dayton area, were without power early Tuesday morning, said Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio. Hosford said electricity to major pumping stations was knocked out and residents were being asked to conserve water. Local authorities used snowplows to clear debris from major thoroughfares. While Hosford said he was unaware of anyone reported trapped in the rubble. Search-and-rescue teams were going door-to-door in hard-hit neighborhoods to make sure everyone got out of harm's way when the buzzsaw-like funnel cloud stuck. "I think the reduction in injuries is in key part to the early notification and people taking those warning seriously, moving to safe areas of their homes," Hosford said. PHOTO: Damage to the American Budget Value Inn is seen in an aerial photo after a tornado touched down overnight in El Reno, Okla., May 26, 2019. (Richard Rowe/Reuters) But in other tornado-ravaged communities, including El Reno, Oklahoma, where a twister, rated an EF3 on the Enhanced Fujita scale, decimated the town and killed two people on Sunday night, residents said they received little warning of the impending disaster. PHOTO:A child's toy car sits among debris from a tornado that touched down overnight in Trotwood, Ohio, May 28, 2019. (Aaron Josefczyk/Reuters) On Memorial Day, 51 tornadoes were reported across eight states -- Idaho, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio -- and severe weather is forecast to continue Tuesday and Wednesday. (MORE: Oklahoma town devastated by tornado raises $38K in one day) The area with the biggest threat for tornadoes on Tuesday is from Kansas City to western Illinois, where the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration also forecasted baseball size hail. Parts of Ohio and Pennsylvania also are also at risk again for tornadoes on Tuesday, while other areas including Oklahoma City and parts of Texas may again see damaging wind and hail. Similar threats on Wednesday will stretch from Texas all the way to New Jersey, with tornado threats highest in the southern Plains. More heavy rain could mean more flooding. A day after Chicago's wettest Memorial Day ever, with nearly 2 inches of rain reported, seven states from Montana down to Texas are under flood alerts. The Arkansas River near Forth Smith is approaching record flood levels, which could produce major flooding in Little Rock by the end of the week. Rainfall from Texas all the way into the Northeast could be substantial and contribute to more flash flooding. ABC News' Ben Stein contributed to this report. Good Morning America The omicron variant has now been detected in all 50 states. While more will be known about omicron in the near future, the toll the new variant is taking on an already taxed health care system is of concern now. Take a look back at what the delta surge did to the health care workforce (defined by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as paid or unpaid workers who are exposed to patients or infectious materials) many of them suffered burnout, had grueling workloads due to staffing shortages and non-COVID care was impacted. Hats off to LIM College, which celebrated its longevity with its largest commencement ceremony yet this past Friday, highlighting 80 years of fashion and business prowess. LIM College president Elizabeth S. Marcuse, representing the third-generation of Marcuse leadership, illustrated the path of its graduates in yellow-brick-road fashion, tracing back to the colleges founding year of 1939, which also commemorated the release of the film The Wizard of Oz. To walk a path of intelligence, heart and courage are lessons instilled in the film, reminded of by Marcuse at the commencement ceremony at David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center in Manhattan, but as Dorothy clicked her ruby red slippers, so too you will always have a home at LIM, said Marcuse, addressing the graduates. Related stories New Sustainable Outerwear Brand Fuses Fashion, Performance Klarna Crowns Consumers With App Designed to Pay Later, Everywhere New York Magazine Pulls Features Writer From New York Times Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, who represents New Yorks 12th Congressional District, was the first to address LIMs graduating class, reiterating the role of New York City in the industry and touting how it now eclipses London, Paris and Milan as the Fashion Capital of the World. As a school that focuses on the study of business and fashion, LIM College sees the value in the $98 billion-a-year fashion industry. Whether you end up in retail, design, production or marketing, youre going to have an interesting future, said Maloney in her speech. The keynote speaker was global advocate for women and youth and former FBI executive Lauren C. Anderson. Serving 29 years in the FBI, Anderson offered wisdom to graduates. You will come across people, even among your family and friends, who will tell you, You cant do that. But you can! said Anderson in her address. Enriching the lives of others, while practicing kindness and embracing failure, is an impact Anderson has cultivated with intention, and sometimes without intention. Meeting at the G(irls) 20 Summit (an international organization advocating for the development of women leaders) nearly four years ago, a past attendee of the conference later reached out to Anderson after graduating from the Singapore police academy. As is true for the latest graduates of LIM College, or anyone pursuing a career in the fashion industry, who you meet along the way is just as important as who you know on the inside. Story continues And LIM knows many faces across the breadth of the fashion industry. With alumni at companies including Chanel, Barneys New York, Refinery 29, Amazon, and Moda Operandi, such as Rising Star award recipient, Stefani OSullivan (global marketing manager); or Maxwell F. Marcuse award recipient, Kristi Sloe (vice president of product development) the students of LIM boast a network of connections and a high placement rate. Or theyre founding their own companies such as Shining Star award recipient Bianca Caampued, who is cofounder and creative director of Small Girls PR. Inspiring her classmates with her next endeavors at John Varvatos Enterprises, was Alexandra Helmer, a visual studies major, who was also the Class of 2019s valedictorian. Nearly 570 graduates make up the Class of 2019, the largest yet, hailing from 23 countries and 22 U.S. states, plus Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. One of the reasons LIM has been able to stand the test of time is that we have never stopped progressing as the world has changed around us, reiterated Marcuse. Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Yahoo Life Videos We hope your holiday was merry and bright, but dont settle in for a long winters sleep just yet. Right now is the best time to scoop up just about anything you need, at incredible discounts. Like many of us, Ada Chen, a Chinese American artist based in New York, thinks memes are genius. Theyre a really quick way for everyone to relate to a single thing, the 22-year-old tells Teen Vogue. Memes are what inspired her jewelry line, which is meant to appropriate stereotypes about Asian Americans in a sarcastic way. Growing up in San Francisco, Ada was surrounded by a thriving Chinese American community, mostly comprised of immigrant families like hers, which helped her feel more immersed in her culture. Ada, whose parents came from Taishan to California a few years before she was born, started making art from a young age. She remembers stringing together necklaces and bracelets from the bead kits when she was younger. As a student at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, Ada says that while there was a large Asian community there, it was mostly comprised of international students, as opposed to Asian Americans. Due to this, Ada didnt really feel like she fit in with the other Chinese students. I kind of gravitated towards people of color who are from America but not necessarily Chinese, she explains. We had more in common. It was not until college that Ada realized she had endured various microaggressions and that there was a stark difference between being Chinese and being Chinese American. So, she decided that her art practice could be a cathartic and humorous way to speak about these issues. For her senior thesis project, Ada turned some of her personal experiences into a range of wearable pieces including metal grills that say Speak Chinese, Were in America written in Chinese, a necklace that says Speak English, Were in America, red earrings that combine a Christmas tree with a firecracker in honor of the Chinese New Year, and even a pair of Chinese slippers recreated in silver metal. She also transformed text conversations shes had with men on the internet, who fetishized her identity, into humorous meme-like earrings complete with laser-cut acrylic speech bubbles. Story continues Now, in her first year out of college, Ada recently released a new series of necklaces that are meant to poke fun at gold made in China stickers, often found on everyday products sold in American stores. Turning the sticker on its head by updating the text to say, Made in Chinese America, she created a circular pendant using a process called lost-wax casting. Offering stud earrings and a necklace with a pendant in sterling silver, 14 karat gold, or brass, prices range from $40 to $380. Regarding the sticker she initially drew her inspiration from, Ada says, Its something that people associate with poor quality. According to her, the symbol also represents societys cheapening of Chinese culture and the ways in which Chinas rich history has been glossed over by modern industrialization. In this way, Ada sees jewelry making as a means to explore her identity as a Chinese American woman, and support herself financially. Mainly selling her products through her website, Ada hopes that those who wear her designs feel a sense of pride in their Chinese American identity. Courtesy of Ada Chen Already her pieces have been gaining some real traction; recently, she did a trunk show at Jonathan Adler in New York City while some of her work is currently on display in a group exhibition at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York. Though Ada says shes not all that attached to the jewelry medium, the artist hopes to make larger works that are just as personal and intimate in the future. Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue There is nothing more enviable than watching someones Instagram stories unfold as they arrive on a Greek island. The summer months, known as the high season for Greece, bring tons of travelers to the countrys many scenic islands for the beaches, the relaxation and the nightlife. Some of these, like Santorini and Mykonos, can get overcrowded and busy, so its a good plan to seek out a lesser-known island when heading to Greece. Some of these, like Spetses, arent unknown to tourists, but theyre certainly quieter and more enjoyable. Here are five of the best lesser known Greek islands to book for you next vacation, from Tinos to Kefalonia. RELATED: 15 Under-the-Radar Beach Vacations to Book ASAP (Before Everyone Hears About Them) Tinos Hop a short ferry ride from Mykonos and youll find yourself on the small island of Tinos, a quaint destination in the Cyclades archipelago. The island is known for its traditional villages, picturesque beaches and Greek Orthodox church, Our Lady of Tinos, which draws religious pilgrims throughout the year. Explore the villagesPyrgos, Kardiani and Ysternia are some of the most popularor visit one of the many museums, including the Cultural Centre of Tinos. There are lots of outdoor activities, like hiking and scuba diving, and the food scene is full of hidden gems (look for a restaurant called Thalassaki in Ysternia). The island also has guest houses and B&Bs aplenty, but one of the best is Xinara House, a traditional, white-washed building set on a hillside. Tinos is best traveled with a rental car, although there are plenty of paths throughout the island to walk from place to place. Skopelos You may recognize Skopelos from Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again as the film used this idyllic destination as a stand-in for the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi. Despite that, theres not a lot of Hollywood glamour on the island, located in the western Aegean Sea, and its still quiet enough to make the spot feel secluded. Its perfect for both couples and families, with Skopelos Town providing numerous eateries and hotels. Be sure to visit the blue waters at Panormos Beach, as well as Agios Ioannis Kastri, the hillside church used in Mamma Mia. The hotels are remarkably inexpensive, even the most luxurious properties, so its possible to extend your visit into a relaxed weeklong stay. Book into the Adrina Beach Hotel, where the guest rooms offer water views from the private balconies. Story continues Spetses Part of the so-called Greek Riviera, Spetses is a slightly more popular destination than the other islands, although its managed to retain much of its traditional charm. Take in the history, from the 17th-century House of Bouboulina to the House of Hatzigiannis Mexis museum, or just head to one of the many beaches, which offer access to crystal blue water and lots of watersports. July and August can be very busy, so plan a trip off-season to avoid the crowds. Cars arent allowed on the island during the summer months, but visitors have plenty of ways to get around, including taxis, ferry boats and scooters, which can be easily rented. The Poseidonion Grand Hotel, opened in 1914, is the most famous property on Spetses and visitors can pick between the historic wing and the more contemporary new wing. For something more intimate, book into Guesthouse Niriides, a boutique hotel walking distance from the main port. Iraklia Iraklia can be found in between Naxos and Ios, and the tiny island is a calm spot for a relaxed vacation. It doesn't necessarily cater to tourists, which means that Iraklia can feel a bit remote and low-key. Head to island by ferry from Naxos and book into one of the traditional, local-run guesthouses, like Villa Meltemi or Villa Zografos. The main port and beaches are in Agios Georgios, but its worth hiking in to Livadi Beach, accessible via trail. Because the population is sparse and island quiet, Iraklia is best visited as part of a longer journey to Naxos (unless youre someone who really enjoys sitting and doing absolutely nothing) or one of the other, bigger Cycladic islands. Kefalonia Travel west of mainland Greece, into the Ionian Sea, to discover Kefalonia. Its not the most well-known Greek islandits claim to fame is acting as the shooting location for Captain Corelli's Mandolin, a movie you may be too young to remember. Arrive by ferry or charter plane, and enjoy the islands laid back vibe, which remains so even during the busiest months. There are numerous towns throughout the island, including Fiscardo and Assos, and visitors can seek out the many beaches (some only accessible on foot) or visit one of the medieval castles. Snag a room at the Kefalonia Grand, a four-star luxury hotel in Argostoli that has a chic vibe and a good location. Book a room with a sea view or splurge on the master suite, which has its own Jacuzzi. For dinner, head to Tassia, where you can sit on the outdoor patio and chow down on food from acclaimed Greek chef Tassia Dendrinou. RELATED: 6 Gorgeous Houses (with Pools!) to Rent in Greece...on Any Budget Fans from locations as far as Australia, Spain, and Japan descended on the Los Angeles Convention Center this weekend for what must surely rank among the most unconventional of conventions: RuPauls DragCon, a three-day camp extravaganza, celebrating all things drag. Now in its fifth year, the event drew a diverse crowd that ran the gamut of age, race, and gender, all of whom turned out to kiki with Drag Race stars such as Sharon Needles, Adore Delano, Trinity The Tuck, Nina West, Brooke Lynn Hytes, and Silky Nutmeg Ganache. Photographed by Hunter Abrams Saturday kicked off with the Crowned Queens Walk, which saw All Stars winners make the grandest of entrances as Trixie Mattel was pushed down the pink carpet astride a coin-operated mechanical lipstick kiddie ride and Alaska sashayed the length of the hall in an animal-print gown accompanied by a coordinated leap of leopards. Season 11 favorite-to-win Yvie Oddly chose to backflip her way down the carpet to the delight of screaming fans. Photographed by Hunter Abrams In between a packed schedule of panels, podcasts, and performances, attendees shopped stands selling drag queen essentials including glamazon-size costume jewelry, travel-friendly wigs, vegan boas, and giant pots of glitter. As for the queens themselves, outfits, hair, and makeup had been storyboarded to within an inch of their lives, referencing everything from Natalie Portmans Avengers: Endgame premiere red carpet look (Femminem), to Belle from Beauty and the Beast (Plastique Tiara), to Hajime Sorayamastyle cyborgs (Aquaria). And while the theme was largely more is more then add one more accessory, there were exceptions. The Brooklyn-based HaraJuku stood firmly in the less-is-more camp, sporting nothing except a duct tape tuck and a cape for modesty. Photographed by Hunter Abrams In the spirit of the reality competitions challenges, meet-and-greet exhibitor booths had also been given extreme drag makeovers. Latrice Royale received fans sitting on a glam USS Enterprisestyle galactic throne; Milk had installed a mini ice rink in tribute to her youth spent as a competitive figure skater; Peppermint served up milkshakes to fans in a 50s-era diner, and Miss Vanjie held court in a blood red laundromat. Unlike the show, however, there were no winners or losers at DragCon; instead, it was all about the taking part. What is so great about this event is that within these walls, everybody can unapologetically be themselves, said Milk. They dont need to worry about name calling or being beat up. All weekend is about love, acceptance, freedom. Story continues Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Photographed by Hunter Abrams Originally Appeared on Vogue We harbor the traumas, disappointments, and anxieties of past romances, and carry them as a basket of deplorables into our new relationships. In the streets, we call this relationship baggage. We all act like dicks in relationships sometimes. Especially when were young; its like were practicing on each other. To this day I feel a sharp pain in my stomach when I think of the time back in my early 20s that I told my ex-boyfriend he was bad in bedspecifically, that he had a budget dick (???)simply to make him feel like a cuck loser. Oops. Ive also taken my fair share of psychological punches from my back catalogue of partners. No matter how loving a relationship was, its rare to leave without any bruises. We harbor the traumas, disappointments, and anxieties of past romances, and carry them as a basket of deplorables into our new relationships. In the streets, we call this relationship baggage. A classic example: Your ex cheated, so now if your current partner doesnt text you back within 10 minutes, youre convinced he has a secret family in Connecticut. Very sane. But seeing that my unresolved emotional garbage isnt exactly benefiting my current relationship, I cant help but wonder: How do I purge the ghosts of relationships past and move the fuck on with my life? Ive written about my tragic ex-boyfriend in this column ad nauseam, but here I go again. In my mid-20s, I dated a guy who criticized me relentlessly. At the time, my blog, Slutever, was beginning to gain a following, but my ex insisted it wasnt serious writing, and that the subject of sexuality was girlygirly, of course, being synonymous with insignificant. Hed refer to me insultingly as blogger brain (lol). But most impactfully, he insisted that people only cared about my writing because I was hot, and that by 30 Id be too old and ugly to write about sex. (And yet, multiple times he called me a flabby-armed gorilla. Like, which is it, bro? Am I career-alteringly hot or a chubby primate? My blogger brain cant follow the narrative!) Story continues Another gem was his resistance to giving head, ostensibly because of my potent-tasting vagina (gross, sorry). Unsurprisingly, the subsequent partners who found themselves between my legs had to deal with my nonstop, anxious narration: Are you okay? You can stop if you want. Are you tired? Please tell me if youre bored. As if I was asking them to assemble my IKEA cabinets on a hangover. Eventually, it became a self-fulfilling prophecy: I was so convinced my partners would be turned off by me that I nagged them incessantly until I became a turn-off. My relationship with my ex left me deeply insecure in a variety of ways. Ive since managed to unpack some of my baggage. (Shout out to Eduardo, the male slute.g. vagina expertwho reassured me that I taste basically normal.) But its my general trigger for criticismor more often, perceived criticismthats been hard to shake. Like recently, my boyfriend off-handedly questioned my pronunciation of acai and I started crying in the middle of Juice Press, turning his innocuous comment into a crushing judgment of my intelligence slash entire value as a human being. Technically, the ghost of my ex is trolling my current boyfriend by haunting our yuppie-fuck Sunday juice ritual. I was recently talking with my friend Jen, a 32-year-old TV producer whos currently hemorrhaging money on therapy in an effort to purge the ghost of her ex. Jen was a chubby kid and her negative body image started young. But her insecurities were reignited when she met her college boyfriend. From the beginning, Jen recalled, my ex told me that I was at my best when exercising regularly. He said it made me more confident, and thatbonus!my body got super hot. But whenever hed talk about the gym, I would legit burst out cryingfor five years! In reality, I hated my body, whether I was working out or not. Jen and her ex broke up seven years ago, but her relationship to what her partners thinkor might thinkabout her body is still complicated. Im now significantly thicker than I was when we dated, she said, and I often look at myself and think, He would be disappointed in my body. I know that guys have wanted to fuck me at my various weights, so why dont I believe it when someone tells me Im sexy with my fat ass and big boobs? Honestly, Im embarrassed that I still care about his opinions of me. I get it. No matter how many times my shrink tells me its not weak to be human, I still think its fake news. It also doesnt help that, in our current era of neoliberal girlboss feminism, were supposed to exude a near-fascistic level of positivity and self-acceptance. Were supposed to kick people to the curb who dont know our worth and to proudly Instagram our fat rolls. So its hard to admit that I feel insecure or jealous, or that I care what my boyfriend thinks about my self-involved think pieces because it feels tragic not to be invincible. But annoyingly, accepting vulnerability is the first step toward exorcising our emotional demons (like all that Brene Brown shit Im embarrassed to like). We have to empathize with ourselves. Personally, its comforting to remember that were all members of Emotional Trashbags Anonymous. No need to self-harm over it. And even if some infantile version of me expects my boyfriend to endlessly reassure me hes not being critical, I somehow doubt thatd be good for us. Relying on reassurance is like taking Tylenol when you have syphilisit may temporarily ease the pain, but if you dont address the underlying issue, youll eventually end up blind, insane, and sterile. After a painful relationship, we can either incubate our damage and perpetuate it, or we can do the #selfwork to heal. Basically, I cant be a millennial baby, celebrating my victimization to validate my arrested development. (Sigh.) In the end, the goal is to stop projecting your exs behavior onto new partners. Now, when Im feeling triggered, I at least try to honestly communicate my anxieties and own my trash. You know, the classic: Its not you, its me and the ghost of my satanic ex. So basically, my boyfriend and I spend our quality time triggering each other, followed by long lesbian-esque processing conversations about our past traumas, also known as foreplay. Originally Appeared on Vogue Costco may seem like a mainstay of the modern grocery shopping landscape, but the bulk retailer only came into existence in 1983. The Costco that we know and love started when the Price Club, which opened in 1976 as a warehouse club for business shoppers, merged with a similar business called Costco, to become Costco Warehouse. They opened their first members-only big box store in Seattle in 1983, and soon added two additional locations in Portland, Oregon, and Spokane, Washington. From there, the company has grown and grown, becoming the first company ever to grow from zero to $3 billion in sales in less than six years thanks to low prices and great deals. The company recently shared some photographs of their very first store with Business Insider, and they are a trip down cost-cutting memory lane. When Costco first opened its garage doors to its price-saving members, Ronald Reagan was president, Duran Duran and Crystal Gayle topped the charts, and a little film called Return of the Jedi was in movie theaters. While there is a different president, different music, and different movies (although a new Star Wars film is due out soon), not all that much has changed at Costco. The warehouse is still full of jumbo packs of paper towels, display models of TVs and stereos perched over brown boxes, and lines of members waiting to check out with their bargains. The photos show a bare bones warehouse, very much in tune with the companys original mission of selling a variety of goods at discounted prices to their members. The variety of goods is vast, ranging from plants to windsurf boards to toilet paper and that hasnt really changed. These days each Costco store stocks 4,000 different items for its customers to shop. One thing that has changed is the crowds, co-founders Jim Sinegal told CNN that the "crowds weren't overwhelming" at first, but "business built up" gradually as people started to figure out that Costcos entire business was built on keeping costs down to share the savings with their members. These days, everyone loves Costco. Its not just for the ubiquitous samples, or tasty hot dogs, but for something that is evident those early photosthose really good deals. WATCH: 3 Insider Tips Costco Regulars Swear By When it comes to snagging all of Costco's best steals, there's one rule to live by: Frequent shoppers know best. Check out their insider tips before your next haul. Theres no debate that the U.S. has and still operates with a widening partisan gap, and the issues that matter to one party arent prioritized by the other. The most vocal issues get the most attention, and the consumer dollar follows and as these brands and independent artists reveal, cause-based commerce may be on the uptick. Beginning with the key issues in play, the top priorities for Republicans in 2019, according to Pew Researchs most recent survey are terrorism, the economy and social security, while the top priorities for the Democrats are health care, education and the environment. Related stories Walmart Taps Google Exec Suresh Kumar Colourpop.com Takes Top Spot in Beauty Site Traffic Rankings Klarna Crowns Consumers With App Designed to Pay Later, Everywhere For the fashion industry and its fellows, theres an important message here. At the mercy of their customers, fashion and beauty brands should aim for the core authentic generation Gen Z and the drivers, the dominant force for retail: Millennials. In the U.S., Millennials are leading in spending in-store and online (74 percent share); impulse shopping (87 percent); and subscription box usage (31 percent), according to a recent study from First Insight, a customer-centric merchandising platform for retailers and brands. But hitting the core may also mean that brands without definitive purpose participate in the discussion on generational issues. Speaking with Keval Desai, General Partner at InterWest, sustainability is what he believes will be the defining issue for Gen Z. As an early investor in brands such as luxury resale behemoth, The RealReal and minimal San Francisco-based Cuyana, a shifting consumer mind-set dictates the temper of commerce as a whole. Brands that capture this mind-set in their DNA are the ones that leak core values that matter to younger audiences. Even dedicated agencies exist for elevating the voices of issue-oriented brands, such as New York-based agency No. 29. Story continues Consumer Activism, as Needed Sara Moinian, an independent, New York-based artist and intern at the Museum of Modern Art, is one Millennial who took to art as a release and form of commerce-driven activism in the wake of recent strife caused by the abortion battle. Moinian punctuates her Im Angry art print, (for sale on Society 6, an e-commerce platform for independent artists), with a dozen exclamation points in the product name, splitting all of the proceeds between the American Civil Liberties Union and Planned Parenthood in Alabama. When asked if cause-based commerce can affect real change, Moinian offered the following: If I make a shirt and give all the proceeds to an organization who is on the front lines fighting for said cause, that action itself is funding change. Moinian highlights a penchant of the rebellious youth to become walking political statements hoping to align their political views, publicly, with their purchases. She added that, Im not saying a t-shirt is going to change the world, but at least its doing something. Built-in Brand Advocacy DoSomething Strategic, a youth-focused social impact consultancy, revealed 58 percent of young consumers aged 13 to 25 are more likely to buy from brands that back a good cause. The survey included 1,908 responses from its community members. Noting a consumer behavioral change, Mary Noel, director at DoSomething Strategic, cites young people as the vanguards of this shift. She mentioned the brands: Allbirds, Everlane and Adidas as examples of how the footwear industry can impact real change by taking a renewed interest in ethical sourcing and sustainable materials, as each brand has shown. While some brands demonstrate core values on a product basis, others may weave issues such as environmentalism into their core ethos. Apparel and accessories brand Sand Clouds mission is marine conservation. Sand Cloud boasts more than 250,000 brand ambassadors making conscious acts, as well as contributions, to the cause when shopping at the brand. We have supporters who sign petitions to end off-shore drilling, who educate others on the danger of single-use plastics and who participate in beach cleanups. All of these actions make a tangible, positive impact, said Brandon Leibel, the cofounder of the apparel and accessories brand, which also donates a portion of all purchases to marine conservation charities. Praised for its company core values, Zappos head of charity, Steven Bautista, believes cause-based commerce can definitely make a difference. He added, Its difficult for sure, but I believe in the power of businesses doing good. Each organization has to define success and that may lead to setting unrealistic expectations, but I think that as long as we stay in touch with the needs of our customers and the communities were serving, then we can create a real impact. From a Stateside perspective, theres a potent landscape for retailers and brands to take a stance on key issues plaguing the consumers thoughts, or risk losing loyalty altogether. Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Photo credit: Chelan County Department of Corrections From Men's Health Sometimes you're riding high on life, with an unstoppable momentum that good karma is paying out in your favor and everything is going your way. And other times, you accidentally shoot yourself in the testicles while hiding a balloon of marijuana up your butt. The latter is what authorities say happened to a Washington state man in April, according to a report from the Wenatchee World News. Cameron Jeffrey Wilson, 27, had a pistol tucked in his front pocket on April 5th when the gun went off and sent a bullet through his testicles and into his thigh. Wilson, who has previously been convicted of 13 felonies, told his girlfriend to drive him to give the firearm to a friend instead of going directly to the hospital. As a felon, it's illegal for Wilson to possess a firearm. After dropping the gun with his friend, Wilson was rushed to Central Washington Hospital. During surgery, a balloon of marijuana slipped out of Wilson's anus, according to an affidavit. Cops were notified by the hospital of Wilson's gunshot wound, and searched his vehicle at the hospital, finding a bag of methamphetamine and the blood-stained jeans from when he had shot himself. Rather than arresting Wilson at the hospital, officers issued an arrest warrant on suspicion of second-degree felon in possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of meth. Wilson turned himself in on April 18th. While Wilson was being processed at the Chelan County Regional Justice Center, he was strip-searched and a second balloon of marijuana slipped from his anus, the report says. Once in jail, Wilson asked his girlfriend over the phone to not to cooperate with investigators, but authorities were listening in on the calls. Wilson was charged with possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of meth, possession of a controlled substance in a correctional facility, and four counts of tampering with a witness. He was being held on $110,000 bail and is due in court on June 18th. ('You Might Also Like',) In cities around the world, downtown isnt just a geographical destination. Its an entire vibe that separates preservationists from progressives and squares from subversives, attracting legions of misfits, weirdos, transgressors, and provocateurs who eventually become a community. This is especially true for NYC, where you can map so many of the past centurys youth movements via its downtown party scenes. Here, staying south of 14th street isn't just a preference, it's a statement about your values. But when The Misshapes retired their Don Hill parties in 2007 and The Cobrasnake started going by Mark Hunter soon afterward, the party scene migrated to Harlem and Brooklyn, leaving downtown Manhattan to be overrun by blue-shirts. But a group of Asian-American creatives have recently worked to make Manhattan's Chinatown feel like the center of the world once again. At party venues that double as Chinese restaurants by day, places like China Chalet and 88 Palace transform once dinnertime ends, bringing together folks with Big Downtown Energy, but this time with an Asian flavor. Thanks to creative groups like Bubble T, Canal Street Market, Banana Mag, and more, Asian-Americans are reigniting the magic of downtown, and nurturing a scene thats unabashedly Asian, queer, and radically inclusive (you dont have to be Asian to hang, but having an appetite for the food certainly helps). We spoke to a handful of individuals that have been integral in waking this sleeping giant. Grab a can of Wong Lo Kat youre going to want to stay up for this. Kathleen Tso, content strategist, co-founder of Banana Mag; Vicki Ho, publicist, DJ, co-founder of Banana Mag (Issue 5 is now available to purchase here) Whats your Asian-American story? Kathleen: My parents are both from Taiwan. My grandparents immigrated from China to Taiwan right before the cultural revolution. Im Taiwanese-Chinese-American, and I grew up in Texas. Vicki: Both of my parents are from Guangzhou. I grew up in Brooklyn as an only child. Kathleen and I had been friends for a bit, and we connected on our shared experiences as Asians in America. We looked into our network of friends and realized that there were so many Asian creatives who we wanted to work with and showcase on some kind of platform. There are other Asian publications, but they werent covering the subcultures that we grew up with. We started Banana Mag in 2014. Story continues Kathleen: The Banana community is catered to the creative Asian. Its a safe space for us to celebrate each other. We want our community to feel a sense of pride. Every Halloween, we have an Asian Glow party, which was inspired by a story we did. This was our way of celebrating and embracing it, instead of trying to cover it up. Whats fun about partying in NYC today? Kathleen: That area around Essex and Division was such a big part of the beginning days of Banana Mag. Beverlys has a special place in our heart. We constantly met there for work, and threw our first party there. There are so many new Asian collectives coming together (Bubble T, Rooted, Burdock Media), and its really exciting to see more safe spaces. Whats your ideal party night? Vicki: I would probably say that our go-to party is karaoke. Everyone loves it. Weve done two karaoke events: the first was during Lunar New Year with Win Son in Brooklyn. We cleared the dining tables for singing. We did another this year and partnered with Bubble T and Moma PS1. We took over their cafe space and turned it into a Banana Bungalow. We were so surprised because everyone was so talented when they went on stage! Sandy Liang, founder of fashion label Sandy Liang What's your Asian-American story? My parents were born and grew up in southern China in villages around Hong Kong. They came to New York in their 20s, and had my brother and me here. My parents lived in Ridgewood briefly before moving to Bayside where we grew up. All my clothes are extremely personal to me, and it's important it all comes from a genuine place. I'm always thinking about what makes me happy, and a lot of the time it's my childhood when my imagination ran free, and I just got to play and create all day without any true understanding of the beauty of it. A big part of that is also how I was raised and what that meant for me culturally as an Asian American. As someone whos always known that Chinatown has been cool, what's cool about it? Everything. The bakeries. The stores with Sanrio goodies. The fresh fruits and veggies. The fashion. Also, Asian grandmas attitude and the fact that they so don't care! Their prints and combos are the best. Theyre truly the most interesting people to look at in my neighborhood! I get incredibly homesick very quickly. When Im away, I miss my apartment and Congee Village. I live on top of Congee Village so it feels like a part of my apartment at this point! How has the downtown party scene changed since you were younger? The LES I remember is very different from what it looks like today, but I find a lot of the same people who were here back then probably still live here now. I think that's special for a neighborhood in NYC. Richie Shazam, photographer, artist, model, party person, self-described NYC Bollywood Princess Whats your Asian-American story? Im Indian. My parents are from Guyana in South America. I was born and raised in New York City. I identify as being a first-generation American, but culturally, my heritage would be West Indian. The work ethic and hustle to survive were values that were built in me. A lot of who I am is not casually seen in my culture. Im obsessed with Bollywood and the Indian experience, and all of the things that encompass it. Theyre things that Im always trying to keep a hold of. Im breaking ground just by being myself. So many people are afraid to take risks and live outside of the box. Im so proud to be where Im from and Im trying to find ways to merge things together within my narrative. Whats fun about partying in NYC today? For me, theres such a strong support network with downtown creatives. I walked in Sandy Liangs fashion show, and I love working with Gia Kuan those are my girls. And the support is vital. Im grateful to be able to work and collaborate with my friends whether its URL or IRL. Were all very supportive and want to push each other. We have to motivate and align with each other. Theres such a strong work ethic. How has the downtown scene changed? People come in and out of the scene. They contribute and leave, but the constant is that Ive been growing. I have always been in this sphere. The scene is global now, and people want to contribute to it because its a melting port of strong forces. I constantly want to bridge people together. Were in the heartbeat of gentrification and this class divide. Its all about accessibility and connecting people from all walks of life. I think that will always be a pillar of who I am. Gia Kuan, founder of public relations firm Gia Kuan Consulting Whats your Asian-American story? My family immigrated to New Zealand in 1995 when I was very young. I moved to Australia for college. When I eventually moved to New York City, I always loved that feeling of home in Chinatown. For me, I couldn't live in any other city that does not have my local Chinese offerings and knick knacks. I didnt know anyone when I first moved here, but I found my family through the downtown scene when I eventually started working. Every challenge has been a blessing. I learn so much from my own mistakes. Its been great, but there are things that I didnt realize I had to do on my own like accounting and being smart with finances. It forced me to balance my different skill sets that werent purely creative. Im so picky about which brands and artists I work with because they have to be someone I really believe in. I am always cautious and easily pressured to take on something for money, but its a balance at the end of the day. How do I keep on doing what Im doing without losing my voice that sets myself apart in the first place? Whats fun about partying in NYC today? Theres more of this idea of a family aspect of downtown. Its a little more diversified. A lot of the different areas in Manhattan dont have that! But its not just that, its also that everyone is doing something creative whether it be entrepreneurial or within the fashion and lifestyle industry. This gives it a new life. Chinatown is the first place I lived when I moved to New York in 2010. At the time, there were only Chinese vendors at Two Bridges on Henry St. It was so much more segregated. Chinese businesses are being recognized and supported. Its a huge influence on New York City. Whats your ideal party night? What makes a good party is the people. I enjoy making an eclectic guest list that is unpredictable. Its a mish-mash of everything, and the idea is to bring like-minded people together into one space. Its not the same crowd over and over again. Part of what I do and enjoy is almost playing a-behind-the-scenes matchmaker to a room of 400-500 people. Two people might be so different from each other, but if I sit them across the table from each other, they might become great friends. Dae Lim, founder of fashion label and cannabis brand Sundae School Whats your Asian-American story? I immigrated from Seoul, Korea when I was 13. I lived in various parts of the U.S. for short periods of time California, Virginia, and New York and I went to boarding school in Connecticut. That was my first real introduction to America. Nobody looked like me, and I felt inadequate being Korean. I wanted to be white. But when I went to college, all of that changed. At Harvard, it was all about connecting with my identity and who I am as an Asian American beyond simply being good at math and jump rope (we were required to as a kid!). I dont feel totally Korean and I dont feel totally American. That journey started there. It was really when I started smoking weed that I became more connected with my place in the world. Thats when the idea of Sundae School came to fruition. Sundae School is a thought experiment. We play around with the idea of what the new-age high fashion looks like and love participatory events where we can interact with consumers and learn about where we should be heading through observing the zeitgeist. I think one thing thats clear is that we get a lot of influences from the vibrant NYC nightlife scene and the Korean street scene. Whats your ideal party night? Having my friends over for a pregame. We smoke some weed, and then we go dancing, or out to eat. I absolutely love drinking while eating. Right now the downtown scene is reggaeton to the max. Its so fun. Wheres your favorite place to smoke a joint? One of my biking routes is up in the Cloisters. Right around Columbia, there are these columns that look like an abandoned Parthenon and looks out over the river and trees. Smoking there after an eight-mile bike ride is so nice. Whats fun about partying in NYC today? The concept of downtown NYC has expanded so much since the early 2000s (like Jake Gyllenhaal downtown). Now the whole city feels like its expanding, and downtown encompasses the thriving scenes in Brooklyn and Queens as well. We see more people of color. We see so much communication and inspiration being swapped. New York manifests that cultural amalgamation. In #NotYourTokenAsian, we take on the pop products, stereotypes, and culture wars that surround Asian-American identity. Follow along as we celebrate our multiplicity during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here? The Sentimental Meaning Behind Moira's Hat In The Handmaid's Tale Season 3 Rihanna Handpicked 67-Year-Old Model JoAni Johnson For Her Fenty Ad Campaign Serena Williams Is A Mother & Champion In Her Rule-Breaking French Open Look Storm-damaged homes in Brookville, Ohio, on May 28. (Photo: John Minchillo/AP) A tornado pulverized buildings around Dayton, Ohio, early on Tuesday, injuring at least 35 people and requiring emergency officials to send out snowplows to clear debris from a major highway, officials and media reports said. At least two other tornadoes touched down near the city, including one near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, just east of the city, media reports said. At least 35 people in and around Dayton went to hospitals with injuries, most of them minor, according to Elizabeth Long, a spokeswoman for the Kettering Health Network. "We've had injuries ranging form lacerations to bumps and bruises from folks being thrown around in their houses due to the storms," she said. There have been no reports of fatalities. "We had a great warning system in the area," Long said. Residents of the West Brook neighborhood of Trotwood, Ohio, inspect the damage to their homes following powerful tornadoes on May 28. (Photo: Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images) The latest storm follows tornadoes and floods that killed at least six people in Oklahoma during the previous week, including two people in El Reno on Saturday. More than 60,000 homes and businesses in Ohio were left without power on Monday morning, according to the PowerOutage.US tracking service, and officials advised residents to boil water after water plants and pumps went out of service. The extent of the damage in Ohio was not clear yet. "We're right in the middle of it right now. It's a mess," said a phone operator with the Office of Emergency Management in Montgomery County. Some media outlets reported that rescue workers were going door to door in parts of Dayton. Twitter users posted images of flying debris and damaged mobile homes and cars. Rubble covers the American Budget Value Inn in El Reno, Okla. It was destroyed by a tornado that touched down on May 26. (Photo: Alonzo Adams/Reuters) Media images online showed snowplows from the Ohio Department of Transportation clearing debris from U.S. Interstate 75 just north of the city. The National Weather Service said multiple tornadoes were reported in the Dayton area between 11 p.m. Monday and 1 a.m. Tuesday. "The storm system is weakening as it pushes into West Virginia and Virginia, but along with the winds, it has dropped about two or three inches 3 inches (5-8 cm)of rain in just two hours," said Zack Taylor, a meteorologist with the NWS Weather Prediction Center in College Park, Maryland. Story continues Seven people were reported injured in the storm in Pendleton, Indiana, on Monday, about 100 miles (160 km) west of Dayton, according to media reports. More damage was reported in Celina, Ohio, about 78 miles (125 km) north of Dayton. Flooded areas of Arkansas and Oklahoma were bracing for more rain that will feed the already swollen Arkansas River, forecasters said on Monday. Arkansas, Oklahoma and Missouri have all activated National Guard units to respond to the storms. Emergency workers check what is left of the second floor of a hotel in El Reno, Okla., following a likely tornado touchdown on May 26. (Photo: Sue Ogrocki/AP) Early on Tuesday, President Trump expressed his support for Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, a Republican. Trump promised support from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Millions of Americans were under flood warnings on Memorial Day. Deluges hit Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois. In Tulsa, officials were monitoring the Arkansas River after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers raised the flow at the upriver Keystone Dam by 65 percent since last week to 275,000 cubic feet per second. The heavier flow is testing two aging levees in Tulsa, the city said. In Missouri, tornadoes and severe storms killed three people and destroyed or damaged hundreds of homes last week. (Reuters) (Reuters reporting by Rich McKay, Jonathan Allen and Peter Szekely) See more photos from the recent tornadoes below: Justin Sloggett views the damage to his parents' business, Saving Place Rustic Furniture and Mattress, in Sapulpa, Okla., on May 26. (Photo: Mike Simons/Tulsa World via AP) Emergency personnel search an area of destruction in El Reno, Okla., on May 26. (Photo: Richard Rowe/Reuters) A man gathers his belongings from his damage home in Trotwood, Ohio, on May 28, 2019, after powerful tornadoes ripped through the US state overnight. (Photo: by Seth HeraldAFP/Getty Images) A truck lies on its side at Frontier Car Dealership in El Reno, Okla., on May 26, after a tornado touched down. (Photo: Alonzo Adams/Reuters) Erica Bohannon, leads reporters through her destroyed apartment after a tornado storm system passed through the area the night before, tearing her roof off while she huddled with her son and dog in her bedroom closet, Tuesday, May 28, 2019, in Trotwood, Ohio. (Photo: John Minchillo/AP) Residents walk toward Westbrooke Village Apartment building in Dayton, Ohio, on May 28. The tornado tore the roof off the building. (Photo: Doral Chenoweth III/Columbus Dispatch via AP) Debris covers part of a mobile home park in El Reno, Okla., on May 26. (Photo: Richard Rowe/Reuters) Residents of the West Brook neighborhood of Trotwood, Ohio, inspect the damage to their homes following powerful tornadoes on May 28. (Photo: Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images) A building at Frontier Car Dealership in El Reno, Okla., collapsed after it was hit by a tornado. (Photo: Alonzo Adams/Reuters) Neighbors in Clayton, Ohio gather belongings after houses were damaged after a tornado touched down overnight near Dayton, Ohio, U.S. May 28, 2019. (Photo: Kyle Grillot/Reuters) Residents of the West Brook neighborhood emerge from shelter to inspect the damage in their neighborhood after a suspected ef-4 tornado touched down early in the morning on May 28, 2019 in Trotwood, Ohio. (Photo: Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images) An apartment in Trotwood, Ohio, near Dayton, was damaged when a tornado touched down. (Photo: Aaron Josefczyk/Reuters) Damage to the American Budget Value Inn in El Reno, Okla., is seen in an aerial photo. (Photo: Richard Rowe/Reuters) A family leaves their apartment complex in the morning after a tornado touched down overnight in Trotwood near Dayton, Ohio, U.S. May 28, 2019. (Photo: Aaron Josefczyk/Reuters) A section of roof remains torn from Brookville High School after a tornado hit the area the previous evening, Tuesday, May 28, 2019, in Brookville, Ohio. (Photo: John Minchillo/AP) A child's toy car sits among debris from a tornado that touched down in Trotwood, Ohio. (Photo: Aaron Josefczyk/Reuters) Residents of the West Brook neighborhood in Trotwood, Ohio, inspect the damage to their homes on May 28. (Photo: Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images) Debris from storm damage litters a residential neighborhood in Vandalia, Ohio, on May 28. (Photo: John Minchillo/AP) See more news-related photo galleries and follow us on Yahoo News Photo Twitter and Tumblr. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: Prince Harry's Model BFF Came to His Defense Over a Question About Baby Archie Up and to this point, it's still real. There's not many days go by that I don't think of her. Her 20th anniversary year feels like a good time to remember. [MUSIC] [MUSIC] [MUSIC] Believe it or not you and I are both in this photograph. [LAUGH] You are in the tummy. [MUSIC] [MUSIC] How do you keep her memory alive? For your children. I think constantly talking about Granny Diana. [LAUGH] [BLANK_AUDIO] Since Archie's birth, Prince Harry has had to step away from dad duties a few times for official royal duty, most recently to play polo for charity. On Friday, he arrived in Rome to play a game of polo in support of the charity he founded, Sentebale. The event was meant to raise funds and awareness of the charitys work supporting the mental health and well-being of young people whose lives have been affected by HIV in southern Africa, and the Duke of Sussex was joined by his longtime friend and professional polo player, Nacho Figueras. Elisabetta A. Villa/Getty Images In a clip of the interview, Nacho promptly defended Prince Harry. "That's an assumption that you're making, he responded. I am a father of four and sometimes, duty calls. This is 24 hours away from the house, I think he's doing just fine. He's a wonderful father. I'm very impressed and he's here for an amazing cause. So I think that's a ... I don't see that as a problem. In all fairness, Prince Harry has only been taking short trips away from Meghan Markle and Archie like the one he took to the Netherlands (just an hour's flight away) a few days after Archie was born. Story continues Over the weekend, Nacho also wrote a sweet Instagram post devoted to Harry, writing, "The world thinks they know everything about this man." "I have been fortunate enough to spend enough time over the years to learn and understand the man he really is, a kind, generous, compassionate person who is constantly thinking about how to make the world a better place, whether that is helping kids in Africa, talking openly about mental health, encouraging children or talking about climate change and the things that we all human beings need to change for the next generations." Nacho was also in attendance at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding, where he looked like this: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images In fact, he's a big supporter of Meghan and Harry's relationship, despite pesky rumors about Prince Harry's friends having an "issue" with her. "This girl really rocks," he captioned an Instagram photo of himself handing her a trophy last year. "The more I know you the more I am convinced that you both found each other to change the world." Nacho also, it seems, has jokes, as can be seen from his caption on this photo of himself third-wheeling the Sussexes. RELATED: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Celebrate Their First Anniversary with Never-Before-Seen Wedding Photos In conclusion, we all deserve a friend like Nacho. After many years, the govt has decided to explore the economic potential of the sea cucumber fishery industry sector again. Photo: Levi T A SoulCycle class in action. Photo: SoulCycle/Maria Bentley What is SoulCycle? Is it an exercise class? A lifestyle? A religion? A cult? Youve got 60 people moving to the rhythm of the music in the candle light, Melanie Whelan, SoulCycles CEO, told Yahoo Finance UK. You lose yourself to the rhythm of the music and you lose yourself to the beat and you find yourself in that darkness. What happens then is you come out into the light, youve got 60 people whove just had this shared experience and 60 people waiting to go in. At its most basic level, SoulCycle is a 45-minute exercise bike class that sells its own line of clothes and merchandise. Sixty people at a time spend the majority of an hour pedalling on stationary bikes in a dark room to pumping music. But something about the class and the brand has connected with people on a deeper level. The New York-based company has attracted a cult following in the US. Michelle Obama is a fan and Oprah celebrated her 60th birthday with a private class. A friend from New York recalled a former roommate going multiple times a day. People come for the workout because its physical, musical, emotional, and inspirational, Whelan said. But what makes us different is we are a community business that really is about driving personal breakthrough on the bike in the room, and then also connection in the lobbies of the studios afterwards. A branch of the widely popular SoulCycle exercise studio in the Noho neighborhood of New York. Photo: Richard B. Levine Now SoulCycle is coming to the UK, its first market outside of North America. The companys first UK studio opens in Londons Soho in a few weeks, with classes costing 24 a go. Can the company replicate its emotion-fuelled success in the country that invented the stiff upper lip? Weve been watching this market for a couple of years and we have listened to the large group of people who have been advocating for us to bring SoulCycle [here], Whelan said. SoulCycle was founded in 2006 in Manhattan by two friends and has grown steadily over the last 13 years. Today it has 92 studios across North America. The company is private, so financials are not available, but a since-abandoned effort to list it on the stock market in 2015 valued the business at around $900m. Whelan said the company is profitable. Story continues The business rapid rise has coincided with global trends like wellness, athleisure wear, and community focused businesses in the mould of WeWork. Its hard to separate to what extent SoulCycle contributed to these trends versus benefitting from them. SoulCycle CEO Melanie Whelan. Photo: Phoebe Cheong I think, if you look at WeWork or other brands that are really capitalising on this experiential economy thats evolved in the last few years, its really been around that macro trend of social isolation, in my opinion, Whelan said. Weve become tethered to technology and what thats doing is drive social isolation and ultimately I think generally unhappiness and loneliness in a lot of the population, especially in urban markets that used to be more connected. SoulCycle is an antidote to all this, she believes. Were now engaging much more through gaming, texting, through social media, in a way thats leaving people socially isolated. If you look at companies like SoulCycle, what we create is points of in-real-life connection. Whelan, who joined the business in 2012 from luxury gym group Equinox, believes this is SoulCycles real alchemy the fact that it brings people together. To be in one of those studios and to hear: You changed my life, I met my husband here, these are my best friends its a wonderful place to work, she said. A SoulCycle instructor leading a class. Photo: SoulCycle/Maria Bentley Of course, not everyone is a fan. A 2015 Mashable article described SoulCycle classes as full of very thin people with a lot of money to spend and desiring the sense of confidence and belonging that comes from motivational sayings, candles, suffering loudly in a darkened room full of fellow travellers. The classes also face fierce competition. Psycle, a very similar spin brand, launched in London in 2014. Upmarket at-home exercise bike brand Pelaton is pushing into the UK market. And thats before you even consider the host of other upmarket exercise classes on offer across London. Whelan is undeterred. Were very bullish on the opportunities for the brand here, she said. Were not talking about how many well have this year but I will say that I think London presents incredible market dynamics not dissimilar from New York where we have 22 studios. As for the haters who think the SoulCycle is just for the rich and insecure, Whelan says everyone from teens to 80-year-olds get on the bikes. The company has also been pushing into US markets a little less obvious than New York or LA places like Dallas or Atlanta. Ultimately, Whelan thinks doubters need to try the class before casting judgment. This experience is unlike anything else, it is joyful and social and it gives you a way to connect with yourself and with others, she said. The best way for you to understand that is just to come and try a class and let the experience speak for itself. Just get your butt on a bike. Ed Drostes Japan Travel Diary Nap time at the Trunk Hotel, Tokyo Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste Simon settling into the gorgeous corner suite at Hoshinoya Tokyo Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste Sakura fever in Nakameguro Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste Doggo taking in the Sakura Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste Simon at the Inari shrine Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste Magical Kyoto at night Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste Room with a VIEW at Hoshinoya Fuji Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste Riverside ryokan simplicity at Kai Hakone Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste My favorite onsen soak at Kai Hakone Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste Hakone resting spot Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste Simon at our favorite room, Kai Sengokuhara Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste The asparagus of my dreams at Naruikyo Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste Myself just LIVING for the blossoms Photo: Courtesy of Ed Droste I have been to Japan, both for work and pleasure, at least ten times, and I can quite honestly say there is no country on earth that brings me greater joy. The mix of culture, cuisine, people, architecture, and nature is intoxicating. Having just witnessed sakura (Japanese for cherry blossoms, the countrys national flower), I can describe with certainty what a heavenly afterlife should look like. For years, Id been wanting to take my boyfriend, Simon Renglii, on a trip to Japan for sakura season, but a hectic tour schedule kept getting in the way. Finally, a window of time opened up this past April and we jumped at the chance to catch the spectacle. Considering that Simon had never been to Japan before, I made sure our itinerary included the obviousTokyo and Kyotobut also places off the beaten path of this highly-touristed event, like the lush ravines of Hakone, and a surprise snow moment near Fuji. We hit the busy and bustling capital first. Having stayed at the always exquisite Aman Tokyo before, I wanted to try something new. I was excited to discover there was room for us at the Hoshinoya Tokyo, a stunning hotel in the heart of upscale Ginza district. Conceived as a modern twist on a ryokan, a type of traditional Japanese inn that features tatami-matted rooms, we were immediately transported far away from the Tokyo traffic outside and, more importantly, our American life back home. Other than being 65 and occasionally hitting my head on the low ceilings, I love staying at ryokans more than other lodgings for the simplicity and tranquility. I relish kicking off my shoes and shuffling around on the smooth mats. In the evenings, the hotels provide kimonos or robes for dinner, which is quite debonair if you ask mea mix of comfort, tradition, and style. An onsen, a type of Japanese hot spring bath that draws natural spring water from directly beneath the hotel, was on the top floor, with breathtaking views of the stars. Story continues After 12 hours or so of just absorbing the architecture and hidden rooms in the hotel, we shook off our jet lag and ventured out to wander the sprawling expanse of Tokyo. The riverwalk located in the Nakameguro neighborhood was teeming with cherry blossoms and lit pink lanterns to commemorate this awe-inspiring, kaleidoscopic spring celebration. After a full day strolling through parks and winding neighborhoods, we met my friend Hiro and headed to my favorite dinner spot, Teppen. Situated discreetly in Nakameguro, the restaurant has the most memorable doorway in Tokyo: A small opening, no taller than four feet, that you must crawl into to enter the most magical, smokey restaurant with flames licking the ceiling and chefs shouting the names of their dishes. The following day we walked 18 miles in and out of my favorite areas, such as Shimokitazawa, Shibuya, and the Oeno area, where we chanced upon a variety of cute leather shops. Along the way I ran into my friend Ezra Koenig of Vampire Weekend with Rashida Jones, his wife, and their child in the Asakusa district. Its an incredibly small world sometimes. For our final night in the city, we were invited to eat at Musashi, the new sushi restaurant at Aman Tokyo. I can only sum it up by saying it was actually the best sushi meal of my life. I promise there is no hyperbole at play here. After three days, it was time to take the always fun bullet train to Kyoto. The second we arrived, I had a bee in my bonnet about finding bike rentals. Some of my fondest memories are biking up and down the Kamo river to various temples. We were incredibly blessed with weather this trip, and the cherry blossoms seemed to follow us wherever we went, casually falling down in the wind and resembling pink ashes or snowflakes. We biked to the endless reddish-orange gates at the Inari shrine and hiked to the top as we marveled at all the fox sculptures along the way, wondering if wed actually see a real one. That night we biked to the wonderfully charming Giro Giro eatery, overlooking a small Kamo stream offshoot and nestled between the upper branches of a cherry tree. The following day we went to the golden temple and stumbled upon a lovely neighborhood ramen spot we loved called Miyako. We also very much enjoyed the lavish wagyu meal at Hafuu and the tofu-only meal by the river at Tousuiro, another favorite. We were hooked on the Hoshinoya Tokyo, so we did some last minute scrambling upon leaving Kyoto and decided to stay at the Hoshinoya Fuji. That hotel has quite possibly the most stunning view from a hotel room Ive ever seen. A fairly substantial snow storm had just hit, and our arrival there was one of the most surreal settings Ive experienced. Picture the scene: A giant snowcapped Fuji in the background of the most gorgeous hotel in almost brutalist-style architecture, perched on a hill surrounded by snow-dusted cherry blossoms. The hotel is Japans first glamping attempt, and it was very cozy at every turn. Giant wooden decks and walkways were built throughout the property, with open fires, sleeping bags on loungers, and hot chocolate. It was really amazing to be there for this sudden spring snow storm as I feel we got to appreciate a bizarre and varied climate, which allowed us to utilize the many elements of the outdoorsy hotel. In the morning after eating an incredible Japanese-style breakfast in our room facing the mountain, we went on a canoe ride in the bitter wind and pinched ourselves that we were indeed canoeing at the base of Fuji. The whole 24 hours there was a dream. Nothing, however, prepared us for the magic of Hakone, a mountainous town in Japan's Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park west of Tokyo. The little villages dotting the ravines and hills of Hakone were like nothing else. Tiny bridges, babbling streams, weeping willows and koi fish are integrated into the hillside in the most storybook of ways. The hotel we had chosen, a chain of onsens called Kai, felt like stepping back in time. The rooms felt centuries old, while the building reminded me of something from the 70s. My favorite thing about this hotel was the smell. The old wood and decades of incense burned left everything with a sacred, magical fragrance. We walked up and down the stream near the hotel in a full-blown daze. It sounds ridiculous, but we were both enamored with the greenery and setting. The hot baths in the basement were open air, facing giant trees and a tiny stream. The detail both inside and out of every hotel we stayed at was just incredible. For our second night in the area, we went to another Kai (obsessed with them) called Sengokahura. Slightly further up the valley, it is a much newer establishment. It was here we had my favorite room. Modern yet ryokan, open and airy with a view and a private bath on the balcony, we found it hard to leave the zen space. Simon drew in his notepad and I wrote in my journal most of the day there, knowing that we were in for a culinary treat that night at their restaurant. One thing I can never get over is how every hotel has an amazing dinner and breakfast. Usually when I travel in the States or Europe, its wise to miss the hotel food options. But the Hoshinoya and Kai spots housed eateries that in any other country would be deemed a destination. We had a complicated and semi-stressful transfer from Sengokahura to Tokyo for our final night. The knowledge that the trips end was in sight left us feeling wistful and down, and on top of that we had a long confusing bus ride back where we miscalculated how much money we had. (Thank you to the friendly German tourists who rescued us!) Luckily, that feeling of unease was fleeting, because we were going to go back to one of my favorites, the Trunk Hotel in Tokyo. Definitely more young and hip than ryokan, the Trunk is right in Shibuya and has the most decadent penthouse I know. We were blessed with an invitation there and immediately called Hiro over for some roof deck prosecco. Space is a premium in Tokyo, and that space is massive. The deck with hot tub alone is roughly the size of my old apartment in New York. We celebrated the end of our epic trip with Hiro and my friend Michael ONeill, who was in town shooting a campaign for Apple, at my other Tokyo go-to dinner spot, Naruikyo. There, we feasted on giant asparagus, the best sashimi plate I know, and wagyu beef before hunkering down to sleep and wondering if it all was a dream. Lucky for us we still had time for lunch the next day at the airport. Even amongst the terminals and luggage claims, you can rely on a delicious and memorable meal, just like in every nook and corner of Japan. Originally Appeared on Vogue Sharks can be dangerous, but a fatal shark attack is still a rarity. Over Memorial Day weekend, Hawaii saw its first shark death in four years when a man from California was attacked while swimming off the coast in Maui. According to reporting by The Associated Press, Thomas Smiley, a 65-year-old man who was a frequent visitor to the islands, was attacked by a shark on Saturday in the waters of Mauis Kaanapali Beach Park area. Smiley was swimming approximately 60 yards off the shore when he was pulled under, according to witness testimony given to the Maui police. %image1 A witness said that when rescuers pulled Smiley to the shore, he was missing a leg and died at the scene. Witness Allison Keller recounted the events to Hawaii News Now, As we got closer, I saw some blood on his stomach and then I got looking a little bit more, and his wrist it looked like the skin on his wrist was just torn off, Keller said. And then I got looking closer, and his entire left leg from his knee down was just missing. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and lifeguards searched for a shark, but were unsuccessful. The last fatal shark attack in Hawaii was in 2015, when a snorkeler off Maui was killed. Traveling was a temporary fix for my problems, until it wasn't anymore Like many cures, traveling is a privilege, and it really can be an amazing time for self-discoverybut on the other side of the coin, isnt traveling just running away from your problems? What happens when you have to return home and face them? Read more to see what happened to me. Along with yoga, meditation, and face masks, traveling is generally regarded as a cure for those who feel stuck or lost. Not sure what to do after graduating college? Try backpacking through Europe. Just broke up with your boyfriend of three years? Bali should do the trick. Like many cures, traveling is a privilege, and it really can be an amazing time for self-discoverybut on the other side of the coin, isnt traveling just running away from your problems? What happens when you have to return home and face them? Browse a travel group on Facebook and youll see tons of posts from women who spend months (or even years) abroad, but now are back home, feeling stuck, sad, and even depressed in some cases. They generally blame the travel bug or wanderlust, but I like to think they just want to keep running. I say this not because I think Im better than them, but because Ive been there, too. I honestly feel like Ive been running ever since I was old enough, with enough of my own money, to do it. But while a six month internship in New York City or a summer studying abroad in London was one thing, recently quitting my job to travel full-time as a digital nomad was another. Of course, when I first started my travels, I felt like I was running carefree through a field of daisies. But a year and a half into them, I felt like I was running for my life from a grizzly bear (or a dementer, or a toxic ex). But, lets go back to the field of daisies first. Getty Images It was August 2017 and my lease in New York City was about to be up. For the last year, I had been working at a womens media company, and while I loved the freedom to write and I had great co-workers, I felt underpaid and overworked. I knew I was probably never going to make enough money there to feel comfortable living in one of the most expensive cities in the world. It wasnt just the job thoughsomething in my life was off. I was feeling more anxious, and maybe even depressed. I had trouble getting out of bed in the morning, I quit working out entirely, and my sex drive was practically nonexistent. Story continues Everybody on social media seemed to be going to Thailand to find themselves, and I was still looking for the real Ashley. Or, at least, I was looking for a sign from some higher power to tell me what to do with my life. Because I sure as hell didnt know. A company called Remote Year advertised a 12 month program where a group of digital nomads (people who worked wherever they wanted from their laptops) visited a new country each month and worked together. While I wasnt willing to spend $29,000 to be stuck with a bunch of strangers (I was a poor introvert, after all), going to a new country every month sounded nice. Moving home to my childhood bedroom and not paying half my paycheck to rent sounded nice too, so I decided to do both. I figured Id have my parents house outside of D.C. as my home base, but I could travel freely without having to waste money on rent or a storage unit to hold my stuff. I also would (hopefully) combat my fear of being lonely while traveling, because Id be able to return home to my family. The plan was pretty genius, if I do say so myself. Although my travels were a bit derailed by some medical complications, I took my first solo trip to Los Angeles in March of 2018. In the next year and a half, I spent time in Spain, Morocco, Gibraltar, China, Thailand, Belize, Jamaica, The Bahamas, and more. I also visited N.Y.C. pretty frequently, hit Las Vegas, and went back to L.A. a couple of times. Ultimately I was only spending about five to seven days at my home base in D.C. each month. While my travel schedule seemed crazy to my parents, it was just what I needed at the time. I would spend a week in D.C. working extra-long and hard, then Id jet off to a new destination where I could work for half the day and explore for the rest of the evening. If I found myself feeling lonely or overthinking, I could just bury my head in my work and/or a new vegan donut shop in whatever city I was in. Yes, working for myself and traveling was great, but it wasnt answering the questions that had been giving me anxiety back in New York. I still didnt know what I wanted to do with my life. I didnt know where I wanted to live or what I wanted my romantic relationships to look like. I hadnt figured out anything that Id wanted to include in my five-year plan. But because I was constantly on the move, it was easy for me to live in the present and ignore them. It was too hard to plan the future when there was so much uncertainty. I loved what I was doing work-wise, but I still wasnt making much more money than I was at my former job. I was really into the guy I was seeing (hence all the frequent trips to N.Y.C.), but I had no idea if we had a future together; deep down, I knew that we probably didnt. I loved nearly every city I visited, but I also loved N.Y.C. when I visited. I still had no idea where I wanted to live permanently, or at least for a few years. Dont get me wrong, living in the present was great. I felt (slightly more) spontaneous. I saw amazing places. I met really interesting people. I worked on really cool projects and actually saw work as an escape when my travels were too overwhelming. I learned a ton about myself. Getty Images But in February 2019, before traveling to Thailand, I realized I had tons more to learn about myself. That same anxiety Id felt back in N.Y.C. crept up on me again. I had been digital nomad-ing for a year and a half, and more and more often, people were asking me about my long-term plan. I started feeling extra anxious when Id return homelike I didnt really belong there anymore, but I wasnt excited to leave for my next trip either. I wanted to stop stressing about money so much. Though I had saved a lot, I still felt like I wasnt making enough to comfortably get my own apartment, a car, and all that other shit normal people have to pay for. I literally made my mom sit with me while I packed for Thailand, or else I wouldnt have gotten it done at all (I normally pack two weeks in advance for my trips). I felt like one of those girls who jumps from relationship to relationship to fill the void, except instead of compulsively dating, I was jumping from country to country. Thailand was the first place I had planned to travel after quitting my job, and it ended up being the last place I visited before closing the chapter on my digital nomad lifestyle. Thailand was amazing and Im so glad I got to experience it, but I felt that I couldnt appreciate it fully. I was so anxious about what was coming next. I spent a lot of my time in that country wrestling with options for my career (Did I want to build out my freelance business? Should I apply for a full-time job?), my relationship (Should I have the talk with the guy Im seeing? What did I event want?), and my living situation (Could I happily live with my parents for a few more months while I figure out what I want to do?). The only decision I could easily make was that this would be my last trip for some time. When I next got a on a plane, I wanted to be flying somewhere Id be staying for a while. Aside from one more family trip in March, thats exactly what happened. After returning from Thailand, I started applying to a few jobs in Los Angelesthe one city where I always felt the most at home while traveling. Much quicker than expected, I got a great job offer where Id be doing work I enjoyed and making double the salary of my last full-time job. I had six days to get my shit together and move to Los Angeles before my start date. It was a little crazy, but not any crazier than some of the trips I took in the last year. I still have a lot of work to do on myself and my five-year plan. But now I have structure and routine (which I low-key love). Im making enough money to be less stressed financially, and unlike with freelancing, I always know when Im getting paid. I ended my situationship in the best way possiblewe had a mature conversation and accepted that, though we enjoyed spending time together, it didnt make sense to keep things going if neither of us saw a future together. Putting my life metaphorically on hold for a bit to live in the moment was great for me. I really did find myself, at least some of myself. Thats why, in no way, I am advising against taking a year off to travel, doing the digital nomad thing, or quitting a job that isnt working for you. Im so happy that I did all of these things because 2018 was probably one of the best years of my life because traveling allowed me the space to figure out what I truly enjoyed doing and how I want to do it. That that wouldnt have been possible if I wasnt taking things day-by day and only focusing on the present. What I dont recommend is pretending that traveling the world will cure all of your problems, when in reality its just another distraction. Sure, pictures with the Eiffel Tower look a lot better on Instagram than pictures of you distracting yourself with tequila (and traveling is certainly the healthier option between those two). But at the end of the day, you will still have to sit down with yourself and face your internal issues. The good thing about traveling alone is that you learn to truly enjoy being alone with yourself, and listening. Thats the gift from my travels that will keep on giving. Two Maggots Burrowed in This Womans Scalp While She Was on VacationHeres How That Happens People return from vacation with all kinds of things. They come home with souvenirs, photos, or sun-kissed skin, just to name a few. But imagine bringing back something not so pleasant, like maggots living in your scalp. That's what happened to a woman from the UK when she returned home from a trip to Argentina. Yikes. The case report in the British Medical Journal tells us that shortly after arriving back home, the unnamed woman went to see a doctor complaining of pain in her left ear and swollen lymph nodes in her neck. She was given antibiotics for the ear infection and sent on her way. RELATED: This Woman Returned From Her Tropical Vacation With a Maggot Living in Her Forehead BMJ About a week later, the woman, who is in her 50s, went back to the doctor with two small, itchy lumps on her head. The doctor said they were cysts and gave her antibiotics to treat them. Over the next three weeks, however, the cysts grew and started to cause stabbing pains. They were also leaking a clear, odorless fluid. The woman wrote in the report that although a friend suggested early on that she may have a parasitic infection, she didn't take the possibility seriously because she had been told the lumps were just cysts. But when the pain became unbearable, she suggested the possibility of a human botflyor maggotinfection to her doctor. (The case report didn't explain what the doctor's response was, however.) Then, seven weeks after she returned home from her trip, she was admitted to the hospital. Her blood tests came back normal, but she told doctors she could feel something moving around in her scalp. By that point, the lumps were less than one inch in diameter and had tiny openings called punctums. She was finally properly diagnosed: She was infected with two human botfly larvae. RELATED: A Florida Woman Discovers Deeply Embedded Maggot in Her Groin Doctors planned to remove the larvae by smothering the lumps with Vaseline; this covers the punctum and cuts off their air supply, forcing them to come to the skin surface for oxygen. One was successfully removed by this method, but the other had died and needed to be surgically removed. Both wounds were then washed out with saline, and antibiotic ointment was applied to the scalp. Story continues Botflies deposit their eggs on mosquitoes, meaning their larvae can be transmitted to humans if they're bitten by the insects. The warmth of the human body triggers the fly eggs to hatch, and the larvae then burrow into the innermost layer of skin. The woman said she was bitten by mosquitoes several times during her trip. Bottom line: If you start feeling unwell shortly after returning from a vacation to the tropics, ask your doctor to consider the possibility of a human botfly infection (or any parasitic infection, for that matter). It might sound crazy considering how unlikely this is here in the States, but it is relatively common warmer parts of the world. RELATED: A Moving Bump on This Woman's Face Turned Out to Be a Live Worm (Adds comment, details) MADRID, May 27 (Reuters) - Spain's Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez will meet France's centrist President Emmanuel Macron on Monday to discuss the allocation of top jobs in the European Parliament, the PM's office said. Sanchez's PSOE party finished first in Spain in the European elections. Marine Le Pen's far-right Rassemblement National won most votes in France but the margin of victory over Macron's La Republique En Marche party was narrow. Macron has staked his presidency on persuading Europeans that the EU is the answer to the challenges of an uncertain, globalizing world economy. During campaigning, he pitched for the creation of a centrist alliance broad enough to include the Greens and some conservative parties. A senior diplomatic source in Madrid said Macron and Sanchez were in tune as two leaders on the progressive wing of European politics. "We want Spain's weight to be reflected in Europe. We want pro-Europeans to head (European) institutions," the source said. Pro-European parties retained a firm grip on the EU parliament, provisional bloc-wide results showed on Monday, though eurosceptics registered strong gains. Sanchez's Socialists won 20 European Parliament seats, well ahead of the mainstream conservative People's Party (PP) on 12, center-right Ciudadanos on seven and far-right Vox on three. The PSOE also won national elections on April 28, though without a majority. Its strong European showing could strengthen Sanchez's hand in forming alliances with other domestic parties, though in parallel local and regional elections on Sunday, right-wing coalitions including the PP, Ciudadanos and Vox were set to take the cities of Madrid and Barcelona. On Sunday, Sanchez called on Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera to shun any coalition with the far right in key centers including Madrid. (Reporting by Belen Carreno; Writing by Paul Day; editing by John Stonestreet) KAWASAKI, Japan (AP) A man carrying a knife in each hand and screaming "I will kill you!" attacked a group of schoolgirls near a school bus parked at a bus stop just outside Tokyo on Tuesday, killing two people and injuring at least 17 before killing himself, officials said. Most of the victims were students at a Catholic elementary school who were lined up at the bus stop near Noborito Park in the city of Kawasaki when the man began slashing them with knives. Officials said police captured the attacker but he died at a hospital from a self-inflicted cut in his neck. Witnesses described a hellish scene: children and adults falling to the ground, some with their shirts soaked with blood, dozens of children running and screaming for help, and school bags and books scattered on the ground. "I heard a scream so I stopped and turned around to see what happened. It was not a normal tone of voice," said Yasuko Atsukata. She said she saw one person collapse, and then another. "The color of their white shirts turned red after they collapsed, then I understood they got stabbed." In a nearby parking lot, a frightened-looking boy was in shock with scratches on his face, hands and legs, apparently from falling to the ground as he ran for his life. Police identified the attacker as Ryuichi Iwasaki, a 51-year-old resident of Kawasaki, and said they were still checking his occupation. The attacker's motive wasn't immediately known. Police found two more knives in the man's knapsack in addition to the two he was holding, according to media reports. Iwasaki reportedly lived with his elderly uncle and aunt and was known as a troublemaker. A neighbor said Iwasaki repeatedly rang her doorbell early one the morning about a year ago and yelled at her husband that he had been hit by a tree branch sticking out from their yard, the Sankei newspaper reported. Kawasaki city official Masami Arai said most of the injured were students at Caritas Gakuen, a Catholic school founded by Soeurs de la Charite de Quebec, an organization of Catholic nuns in Quebec City in Canada. Arai said three of the injuries were serious. Story continues Kanagawa prefectural police confirmed 17 people were injured and three others had died, including the attacker. Police identified the two other fatalities as 11-year-old Hanako Kuribayashi and Satoshi Oyama, a 39-year-old government employee who was taking his child to the bus stop. Hospital officials said both had been slashed in the neck and the head. Caritas Chairman Tetsuro Saito said at a news conference that he was "struggling to fight back my anger." "My heart is broken with pain when I think of the innocent children and their parents who send their children to our school with love who were victimized by this savage act," he said. School officials said they will step up security measures at the school, including adding more security guards. But the incident raises questions about how schools can ensure the safety of children while commuting. Japanese children often walk to schools in groups. Witnesses said that as the attack unfolded, the bus driver shouted at the attacker, and as he was running away he cut his own neck, collapsing in a pool of blood as police seized him. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he was outraged by the attack. "Many small children were victimized, and I feel strong resentment," Abe said as he was hosting President Donald Trump on a four-day state visit, which ended Tuesday. "I will take all possible measures to protect the safety of children." Although Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, it has had a series of high-profile killings, including in 2016 when a former employee at a home for the disabled allegedly killed 19 people and injured more than 20 others. Also in 2016, a man stabbed four people at a library in northeastern Japan, allegedly for mishandling his questions. No one was killed. In 2008, seven people were killed by a man who slammed a truck into a crowd of people in central Tokyo's Akihabara electronics district and then stabbed passers-by. ___ Yamaguchi reported from Tokyo. ___ Associated Press journalist Haruka Nuga contributed to this report. Washington (AFP) - More than 100,000 flag-bearing bikers, many of them Vietnam veterans, roared through Washington Sunday in an annual "Rolling Thunder" ride, with President Donald Trump vowing to keep the Memorial Day spectacle alive. Spectators lined the route from as the riders set off from the Pentagon, making their way to the National Mall. It had been billed as the last national Rolling Thunder ride by its organizers, but Trump, who loves a parade, appeared to offer a reprieve. "The Great Patriots of Rolling Thunder WILL be coming back to Washington, D.C. next year, & hopefully for many years to come. It is where they want to be, & where they should be," Trump tweeted from Japan. "Thank you to our great men & women of the Pentagon for working it out!" The Pentagon had no comment, referring questions to the White House, which offered no details on what had been worked out. The current plan is still for this year's ride to be the group's last in Washington, Rolling Thunder president Joe Bean told CNN. "This is our final ride in Washington, DC. Until we can get into the White House and talk to President Trump and see what he can do for us -- this is our final ride in Washington," the network quoted Bean as saying. But for Ron Galey, a Navy veteran who served in Vietnam in 1968-69 and has taken part in every Rolling Thunder ride since 1990, Trump's tweet offered hope for future rides. "Trump said it's not over, so it is not over, and he is the boss of those guys and he keeps his word," he told AFP. Many pro-Trump banners were visible among the bikers forming up for the parade, a leather-clad, red-white-and-blue tribute to American soldiers missing in the Vietnam War. The huge motorcycle rally began in 1988 with fewer than 3,000 participants under the motto "We will never forget." The goal was to press for an accounting of those missing in Vietnam. Over the years, it has grown into a rumbling combination of protest and parade. Story continues - 'Blessing of the bikes' Riders end up at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the nearby Lincoln Memorial for speeches and a concert on the eve of Memorial Day. Unlike Veterans Day in the United States, which honors all military veterans in November, Memorial Day -- on the last Monday in May -- is aimed specifically at remembering those who died while serving in the US armed forces, were prisoners of war or remain unaccounted for. The event has the same name as a major US bombing operation against North Vietnam during the war. Bikers kicked off the weekend of events with a "blessing of the bikes" at Washington National Cathedral on Friday. Organizers had cited difficult relations with the Pentagon -- where riders line up to begin the rally -- over logistics and costs, in announcing that this year would mark the last national rally. "As always, the Pentagon is charging us with an outrageous bill for their services," Bean said in a letter to members. Another letter co-signed by Bean said costs of staging the event had soared to more than $200,000. "The organization will continue to bring awareness to the public, in years to come, with regional demonstrations," organizers said in a statement on their website. Trump, who was on an official visit to Japan, offered his support. "Can't believe that Rolling Thunder would be given a hard time with permits in Washington, D.C. They are great Patriots who I have gotten to know and see in action. They love our Country and love our Flag. If I can help, I will!" he said. According to the Pentagon's POW/MIA Accounting Agency, more than 82,000 US troops remain unaccounted for in wars as far back as World War II. RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) A Brazilian federal court has issued warrants for two branch managers for the Bradesco bank, alleging they were part of a money laundering scheme. The warrants issued Tuesday are for a five-day temporary arrest. A statement from the federal court says investigations revealed that the two managers were "important pieces" of a money laundering scheme involving people linked to a jailed former Rio de Janeiro governor, Sergio Cabral. Prosecutors say there's "no doubt" that Bradesco had failed to meet its compliance duties. The investigation is part of the vast Car Wash probe that has ensnared top politicians and businessmen. In a statement, Bradesco said it had not yet received any official information and that it was at the disposal of authorities. Dakar (AFP) - Mali's government should consider "dialogue" with jihadists waging an insurgency in the west African state, the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank suggested Tuesday, an idea promptly rejected by Bamako. The idea of talking to jihadists may seem ludicrous to some, said the ICG, but insisted all avenues should be explored to protect civilians reeling from inter-communal violence in central Mali, fuelled by the Islamist revolt. In a report, the ICG did not suggest halting military operations against Katiba Macina, the armed group of radical Islamist preacher Amadou Koufa behind a four-year-old insurgency. But it recommended "a shift of tack, with force used alongside efforts to bring Katiba Macina leaders to the table", adding that prospects of defeating the movement on the battlefield were "remote". However, a government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP that "the official line... for the moment is not to discuss with them." This reflected a statement by Mali's Foreign Minister Tiebile Drame, who told Radio France International on a visit to Paris last week: "The line of the Malian state is that there is no dialogue envisaged with those to whom you refer." The ICG report, entitled "Speaking with the 'Bad Guys': Towards dialogue with central Mali's jihadists," said previous contacts had "revealed a degree of pragmatism among Katiba Macina militants, suggesting that even if the odds are stacked against success, dialogue with the group is worth trying." An independent group that proposes solutions to conflicts, the ICG acknowledged the idea of talking with jihadists could outrage "some Bamako elites" and may be seen as a step toward a deal and Sharia rule. Foreign powers, in turn, "might see it as legitimising a terrorist outfit with blood on its hands," the report added. However, "war between the state and jihadists in central Mali has led to growing intercommunal violence," the ICG said. Story continues "To spare civilians additional harm, the government should explore the possibility of talks with the insurgents about local ceasefires and humanitarian aid." The government in Bamako "should empower religious leaders to explore initial talks" with jihadist leaders and also seek dialogue among central Malians, "including those sympathetic to the insurgency," the report suggested. - Fulani vs Dogon - To make such talks more palatable to Malian authorities and Western allies such as France, which has intervened militarily to combat Islamists, jihadist forces should be compelled to renounce ties to transnational movements such as Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb. Delegates to a national conference in 2017 called for the opening of talks with Amadou Koufa and radical Tuareg leader Iyad Ag Ghaly, but the resolution was rejected by the Malian and French governments. Amadou Koufa in March 2017 joined the newly-formed Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM), which was born of a merger to become the leading jihadist alliance in the Sahel region with links to Al-Qaeda. Iyad Ag Ghaly is its leader. This group, Drame said last week, "has contributed to shedding a lot of blood, too much blood, these last years." Since the appearance of Koufa's movement, recruited mainly among his own Fulani (Peul) community, communal violence has spread in central Mali, a mosaic of ethnic groups. Fulani people, who are traditionally cattle-breeders, have confronted the Bambara and Dogon communities of settled farmers and hunters, who in turn have created "self-defence militias". In an explosion of violence on March 23, about 160 Fulani villagers were slaughtered at Ogossagou, near the border with Burkina Faso, by suspected Dogon hunters. The UN mission in Mali (MINUSMA) announced on May 16 it had recorded "at least 488 deaths" since January 2018 in attacks by "traditional hunters against civilians of the Peul population" in the central Mopti and Segou regions. Over the same period, armed Fulanis "caused 63 deaths" among civilians in the Mopti region, MINUSMA said. At least 11 climbers have died on Everest this season (Picture: PA) A filmmaker has revealed how climbers stepped over a dead body to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Elia Saikaly scaled Everest for the third time this month while filming a documentary about four Arab women making the ascent. He described a gruesome scene at the summit, where climbers had to go past a dead body to reach the top. At least 11 people have been killed while climbing Everest this season, and a photo of hundreds of climbers in a queue to reach the top went viral last week as many voiced concerns about dangerous overcrowding. In a Facebook post, Mr Saikaly, from Ottawa, Canada, wrote: I cannot believe what I saw up there. Death. Carnage. Chaos. Lineups. Dead bodies on the route and in tents at camp 4. People who I tried to turn back who ended up dying. A photo of a queue of climbers on Everest went viral (Picture: AFP/Getty) People being dragged down. Walking over bodies. Everything you read in the sensational headlines all played out on our summit night. Mr Saikaly posted an image on Instagram of the dead body on the mountain, just to the right of queuing climbers. He wrote: Here we all were, chasing a dream and beneath our very feet there was a lifeless soul. Is this what Everest has become? The identity of the dead climber is not known. Read more Mount Everest climber who fell to his death posted Instagram warning Nigel Farage vows to stand in general election after Euro election victory Raspberry-picking robot could replace migrant workers after Brexit Another climber, US doctor Ed Dohring, said he was shocked by what he saw on Everest when he reached the top a few days ago. It was scary, he told the New York Times. It was like a zoo. Mr Dohring said he had to step around the body of a woman who had just died on his way to the summit, where climbers waited hours in line. Climbing experts say the mountain has been overcrowded and there have been too many inexperienced climbers there this year. They blame battling adventure companies for taking untrained climbers up Everest and the Nepalese government for issuing more climbing permits than the mountain can handle. Story continues British climber Robin Haynes Fisher, 44, died on Saturday as he descended from the summit. The latest climber to die on Everest was a US lawyer who died shortly after getting to the top of Everest. Christopher Kulish, 62, from Boulder, Colorado, died on Monday at a camp below the summit. About half a dozen climbers lost their lives on Everest last week, most of them while descending from the world's highest peak. British climber Robin Haynes Fisher died on his descent of Everest on Saturday (Picture: PA) Mr Kulish had just reached the top of Everest with a small group after crowds of hundreds of climbers congested the 29,035ft (8,850m) summit last week, his brother said. He had achieved his dream of scaling the highest peaks on each of the world's seven continents. "He saw his last sunrise from the highest peak on Earth. At that instant, he became a member of the 'Seven Summit Club,' having scaled the highest peak on each continent," Mark Kulish said in a statement. Many climbers attempt the summit during the few windows of good weather seen each May. Most of those who died recently are believed to have suffered from altitude sickness, which is caused by low amounts of oxygen at high elevation and can cause headaches, vomiting, shortness of breath and confusion. DOHA (Reuters) - Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Tuesday that his country was ready to engage in dialogue with Gulf Arab countries in order to address escalating tensions in the region. Araqchi met Qatar Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani in Doha, where the two sides "expressed their concern about escalations and problems in the region", a Qatar Foreign Ministry statement said. Tensions have risen between Iran on one side and the United States and its Gulf allies Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on the other. Washington has deployed a carrier strike group and bombers and announced plans to deploy 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict. (Reporting by Hesham Hejali; Writing by Eric Knecht; Editing by Alison Williams) BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Italy sees the issue of reviewing the mandate of the European Central Bank so that it could guarantee public debt as an open dossier that requires a lot of work, the country's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said on Tuesday. Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini called on Tuesday for a new role for the European Central Bank, which should "guarantee" government debt in order to keep bond yields low. Italy, whose debt is proportionally the highest in the euro zone after Greece's, would have much to gain if the ECB were to buy states' debt directly, though Salvini did not spell out exactly what he wanted the Frankfurt-based central bank to do. Asked about Salvini's proposal, Conte told reporters on entering an EU summit: "There are several open dossiers. Among them there is also that one. There is a lot of work to do." (Reporting By Francesco Guarascio, writing by Jan Strupczewski; editing by Philip Blenkinsop) By Sara Rossi and Gavin Jones MILAN/ROME (Reuters) - Victory for Italy's League in European elections gives the far-right party a mandate to push through tax cuts and fight for changes to the EU's budgetary rules, its leader, Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, said on Monday. Salvini's party won 34.3% of the vote at Sunday's election, doubling the score of its ally in the ruling coalition, the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement, which took just 17.1% and was pushed into third place by the center left. "The time has come to totally re-discuss old and outdated rules that have hurt Europe. Otherwise a vote like this cannot be explained," Salvini said at a news conference in Milan. Salvini, who spent much of the election campaign promising deep tax cuts in possible defiance of EU fiscal rules, showed no sign of backing down. Lower taxes were "the key issue" for Italians and would be the foundation of next year's budget to be presented in the autumn, he said. Earlier on Monday, he held out an olive branch to 5-Star and ruled out a cabinet reshuffle despite his coalition partner's disappointing result. "For me our government allies are friends and from tomorrow we will get back to work with serenity and softer tones," he told reporters. "My opponent is and remains the Left," he said, referring to the Democratic Party, which won 22.7% of the vote. The acrimonious election campaign, during which the League and 5-Star traded sharp attacks, had fueled speculation that a League victory and 5-Star failure could trigger a collapse of their year-old coalition. For his part, 5-Star chief Luigi Di Maio blamed his party's defeat on a low turnout in its southern strongholds, and also ruled out a cabinet re-shuffle. "Nothing will change and we will get going again from today," he told daily Corriere della Sera, adding that he expected to govern with the League for a full five-year term. "WE WILL SAY NO" Italy, with public debt proportionally the second largest in the euro zone after Greece's, clashed with the European Commission last year over its big spending plans. Salvini said he understood that Brussels had sent Rome a new warning letter on its public finances. "If it asks for cuts we will say no," he said, adding that he was "convinced" that the new Commission, expected to be installed in November, would be "more friendly" toward Italy. It remains to be seen whether he is right. Although eurosceptic and nationalist parties saw strong gains at the election, pro-European parties retained a firm grip on the EU parliament, provisional results showed on Monday. Italian government bond yields showed little reaction to the election. The closely-watched spread over German Bunds hovered around 270 basis points on Monday, virtually unchanged from the end of last week, while Italian shares were buoyed by a proposed merger between Fiat Chrysler and Renault. The League's victory and 5-Star's poor showing inverts the result of national elections a year ago. Despite Salvini's business-as-usual remarks about the coalition, it would be a surprise if he does not use it to push his own party's agenda. Aside from tax cuts, this will probably mean more autonomy for northern regions where the League is strongest, and efforts to accelerate infrastructure projects including a contested high-speed rail-link between Turin and Lyon. Salvini insisted neither party held the whip hand in the government and reiterated he would respect the policy "contract" which was the basis of the coalition formed 12-months ago. Yet some other League figures seemed less generous in victory. "Deciding the priorities of the government will now be up to Matteo Salvini and the League," said the League's lower house leader, Riccardo Molinari. The poor showing for 5-Star may encourage dissent toward Di Maio, who is likely to face pressure not to make concessions to Salvini which might further erode grassroots support. "In the short term it's not in either side's interests to break up the government, and they will try to find stability," said Alessandra Lanza, from the Bologna-based economic consultancy Prometeia. (Additional reporting Valentina Consiglio and Angelo Amante; Editing by Peter Graff) By Jeff Mason TOKYO (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday publicly endorsed North Korea's scathing personal attack on former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, dismissing criticism that he was siding with a foreign dictator over a fellow American. "Well, Kim Jong Un made a statement that Joe Biden is a low IQ individual. He probably is, based on his record. I think I agree with him on that," Trump told a news conference in Tokyo. Trump's comments on the world stage reinforced a tweet that he sent on Saturday with a similar message and drew renewed criticism of the president back home. North Korea's state-run news agency issued a stinging attack last week on Biden, who has been critical of the isolated state. Trump has targeted Biden with increasing criticism as the former vice president rises in polls for the Democratic presidential nomination to challenge the Republican Trump in the November 2020 election campaign. The president often derides his political opponents, but his tweet on Sunday and his comments on Monday were notable because he issued them while abroad, a practice traditionally shunned in U.S. politics, and aligned himself with Kim, considered a brutal dictator by many. Trump spoke during the U.S. Memorial Day weekend, a federal holiday honoring Americans who have died while serving in the armed forces. "Backing ruthless dictators over our allies in the region?" tweeted U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Democratic presidential hopeful. "This does not show American strength: Still angling for a deal, Trump backs Kim Jong Un over Biden, Bolton and Japan." Trump's national security adviser, John Bolton, last week said North Korean missile tests had "no doubt" violated U.N. Security Council resolutions. On Monday, Trump alluded to Bolton and said he had a different view. 'DISGRACEFUL' "We're going to have to retire the word 'unprecedented' during Trump's presidency," said Larry Sabato, presidential historian and director of the University of Virginia's Center for Politics. "It's becoming the new normal. And disgraceful, of course," he wrote on Twitter. One of Trump's fellow Republicans, U.S. Representative Adam Kinzinger, called out the president on Sunday for "praising a dictator" and attacking Biden over the Memorial Day weekend. "It's just plain wrong," Kinzinger, a military veteran, said on Twitter. Biden's campaign and the Democratic National Committee did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Pete Buttigieg, a Democratic candidate for president and Navy veteran, was also critical on Monday. "Kim Jong Un is a murderous dictator and Vice President Biden served this country honorably. It's just one more example, though, of the way that this president tries to draw attention to himself by saying things that shock the conscience ..." Trump has sought to build a strong relationship with the North Korean leader in the hope that North Korea would agree to denuclearize. Trump also knocked Biden and former President Barack Obama on Monday for their efforts to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon. Trump pulled the United States out of a nuclear deal Iran sealed with Washington and other foreign powers. "Joe Biden was a disaster, his administration with President Obama, they were basically a disaster when it came to so many things, whether it was economy, whether it was military ... no matter what it was, they had a lot of problems," Trump said when asked about criticism that he was favoring Kim over the former vice president. "So, I'm not a fan." A commentary by North Korea's KCNA state media on Tuesday slammed Biden for "rhetoric slandering the supreme leadership of the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)." "What he uttered is just sophism of an imbecile bereft of elementary quality as a human being, let alone a politician," the North Korean news agency said. (Additional reporting by Matt Spetalnick, Michelle Price and David Brunnstrom in Washington and Peter Szekely in New York; Editing by Peter Graff, Jeffrey Benkoe and Howard Goller) On May 28, 1861, Supreme Court Chief Justice Roger Taney directly challenged President Abraham Lincolns wartime suspension of the great writ of habeas corpus, in a national constitutional showdown. Lincon and Taney had not been on good terms prior to Taneys decision on the habeas question in Ex Parte Merryman, which he issued while acting as a circuit judge. Taney had also written the majority opinion in the controversial Dred Scott case in 1857, a decision than Lincoln publicly criticized in his famous debates with Stephen Douglas. Lincoln also made the Dred Scott decision a central theme of his 1860 presidential campaign. As Chief Justice, Taney was forced to issue the presidential oath to Lincoln in March 1861, and to listen to Lincolns inaugural address, where he again criticized Taney and the Dred Scott decision, but not directly by name. The candid citizen must confess that if the policy of the Government upon vital questions affecting the whole people is to be irrevocably fixed by decisions of the Supreme Court, the instant they are made in ordinary litigation between parties in personal actions the people will have ceased to be their own rulers, having to that extent practically resigned their Government into the hands of that eminent tribunal, Lincoln said. About three months later, Taney had his chance to address Lincolns vision of executive power in Ex Parte Merryman. Article 1, Section 9, of the Constitution states that the Privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it. The Great Writs origins go back to the signing of the Magna Carta in England in 1215 and the writ compels the government to show cause to a judge for the arrest or detention of a person. After the start of the Civil War, President Lincoln ordered General Winfield Scott to suspend habeas corpus near railroad lines that connected Philadelphia to Washington, amid fears of a rebellion in Maryland that would endanger Washington. Story continues On May 25, 1861, federal troops arrested a Maryland planter, John Merryman, on suspicion that he was involved in a conspiracy as part of an armed secessionist group. Merryman was detained at Fort McHenry without a warrant. Merrymans attorney petitioned the U.S. Circuit Court for Maryland, which Taney oversaw, for his clients release. On May 26, Taney issued a writ of habeas corpus and ordered General George Cadwalader, Fort McHenrys commander, to appear in the circuit courtroom along with Merryman and to explain his reasons for detaining Merryman. Cadwalader didnt comply with the writ and instead sent a letter back to Taney on May 27 explaining that Lincoln had authorized military officers to suspend the writ when they felt there were public safety concerns. Taney then tried to notify Cadwalader that he was in contempt of court, but soldiers at Fort McHenry refused the notice. On May 28, Taney issued an oral opinion, which was followed by a written opinion a few days later. He stated that the Constitution clearly intended for Congress, and not the President, to have to power to suspend the writ during emergencies. The clause in the Constitution which authorizes the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus is in the ninth section of the first article. This article is devoted to the Legislative Department of the United States, and has not the slightest reference to the Executive Department, Taney argued. I can see no ground whatever for supposing that the President in any emergency or in any state of things can authorize the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus, or arrest a citizen except in aid of the judicial power, Taney concluded. However, Taney noted that he didnt have the physical power to enforce the writ in this case because of the nature of the conflict at hand. I have exercised all the power which the Constitution and laws confer on me, but that power has been resisted by a force too strong for me to overcome, he said. But Taney did order that a copy of his opinion be sent directly to President Lincoln. Lincoln didnt respond directly or immediately to the Ex Parte Merryman decision. Instead, he waited until a July 4th address to Congress to confront Taney. Soon after the first call for militia it was considered a duty to authorize the Commanding General in proper cases, according to his discretion, to suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus, or, in other words, to arrest and detain without resort to the ordinary processes and forms of law such individuals as he might deem dangerous to the public safety, Lincoln said. This authority has purposely been exercised but very sparingly. Lincoln then presented his famous response to Taney. Are all the laws but one to go unexecuted, and the Government itself go to pieces lest that one be violated? Even in such a case, would not the official oath be broken if the Government should be overthrown when it was believed that disregarding the single law would tend to preserve it? The President also confronted Taneys opinion that only Congress could suspend the writ. Now it is insisted that Congress, and not the Executive, is vested with this power; but the Constitution itself is silent as to which or who is to exercise the power; and as the provision was plainly made for a dangerous emergency, it can not be believed the framers of the instrument intended that in every case the danger should run its course until Congress could be called together, the very assembling of which might be prevented, as was intended in this case, by the rebellion, Lincoln argued. After the Merryman incident, Lincoln suspended the writ in other situations, and he received approval from Congress in March 1863 to suspend the writ for the duration of the conflict when the public safety may require it. Taney apparently remained bitter about Lincolns disregard for the Ex Parte Merryman decision until his death in 1864. Taney wrote a friend in August 1863 that he had no hope the Supreme Court would ever again be restored to the authority and rank which the Constitution intended to confer upon it. By Gabriella Borter (Reuters) - Missouri is poised this week to become the only U.S. state without access to legal abortions as public health officials may refuse to renew the license of the last clinic in Missouri to perform the procedure, Planned Parenthood said on Tuesday. The state's Department of Health and Senior Services director Randall Williams told the St. Louis Post Dispatch that the state will make a decision by Friday on whether to renew the license of Reproductive Health Services of Planned Parenthood in St. Louis, the only clinic in the state that performs abortions. Missouri Governor Mike Parson on Friday signed a bill banning abortion beginning in the eighth week of pregnancy, making Missouri one of eight states that have passed anti-abortion legislation this year. Missouri is one of a handful of states to have passed restrictive abortion laws in recent months as anti-abortion activists say they aim to prompt the newly installed conservative majority on the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that established a woman's right to terminate her pregnancy by enacting these laws that are virtually assured of facing court challenges. The license for Reproductive Health Services to provide abortions expires on Friday, after which it may no longer offer abortions. It would continue providing other healthcare services, a Planned Parenthood spokeswoman said. "This is a real public health crisis," said Leana Wen, president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, which runs the clinic. "More than a million women of reproductive age in Missouri will no longer have access to a health center in the state they live in that provides abortion care." The state department of health told Reproductive Health Services officials it could not approve a license until it interviewed seven of its physicians who the state believed might be involved in "potential deficient practices," the clinic said in a lawsuit it filed against the state in St. Louis court on Tuesday. Story continues In the lawsuit, which requests a injunction against the state, clinic officials said they are at an impasse with public health officials over interviews with the other physicians since they are not employees of Planned Parenthood and have not agreed to be interviewed. CHALLENGE TO EIGHT-WEEK BAN Separately, the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri said on Tuesday that it would seek to repeal Missouri's law banning abortion after the eighth week of pregnancy through a referendum on the state's 2020 election ballot. If the Missouri Secretary of State certifies the referendum petition for circulation, the ACLU would then need to collect over 100,000 signatures before Aug. 28 - when the law is due to go into effect - to delay the law until a 2020 vote. The recent wave of anti-abortion legislation reflects a boost of confidence among anti-abortion advocates after Republican President Donald Trump named two justices, Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh, to the U.S. Supreme Court, establishing a 5-4 conservative majority. Earlier this year, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi and Ohio outlawed abortion after a doctor can detect an embryonic heartbeat, which can occur at six weeks, often before a woman knows she is pregnant. Two weeks ago, Alabama passed a total ban on abortions except if a pregnant woman's life is in danger. Despite the uptick in anti-abortion measures, a Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 58% of American adults said abortion should be legal in most or all cases, up from 50% in a similar poll that ran 10 months earlier in July 2018. The ACLU and Planned Parenthood filed a lawsuit against Alabama last week and have obtained injunctions blocking the Kentucky and Mississippi anti-abortion laws. Anti-abortion advocates have said they expected legal challenges to these laws and that they welcome the chance to have a court test their conviction that a fetus' right to life is paramount. Meanwhile, U.S. Senator and Democratic presidential hopeful Kamala Harris on Tuesday was set to unveil her plan to protect abortion rights. (Reporting by Gabriella Borter and Brendan O'Brien; Editing by Scott Malone, Bill Berkrot and Richard Chang) An Ohio weatherman was mad as hell and not going to to take fans of The Bachelorette protesting his tornado warning anymore. A meteorologist slammed viewers who complained on social media about weather reports interrupting ABCs Monday night broadcast of the dating show. A succession of tornadoes were reported across eight states overnight that killed at least one person and injured at least 35 others. Dayton, Ohios Fox 45 Jamie Simpson scolded Bachelorette fans during his telecast (see video above): Im checking social media. We have viewers complaining already, Just go back to the show. No, were not going back to the show! This is a dangerous situation, okay? Think if this was your neighborhood. Im sick and tired of people complaining about this. Our job is to keep people safe and that is what were going to do. Some people complain this is all about my ego: Stop. Okay, just stop right now. Im done with you people. This is pathetic. This is a dangerous situation here. Simpson then took a breath and apologized: All right. Im sorry I did that. It just really bothers me there are people who dont care about other peoples safety around here. According to The Weather Channel, the stations Facebook post announcing the live television updates included irate Bachelorette fans. Thanks for ruining my night Jamie, one wrote. You ruined Bachelorette for everyone. The weather service also added: Simpsons refusal to go back to regular programming may have saved lives after a powerful tornado later slammed the Dayton area later that evening. And the vast majority of viewers were actually supportive: Jamie thanks so much for your experience and for never letting us down! one wrote. Also proud of you for putting some people in their place tonight. Related content: By Daren Butler ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkey's military dropped commandos on mountain ridges in a new operation against Kurdish militants based over the border in northern Iraq, the defense ministry said on Tuesday. The push began with artillery and air strikes on Monday afternoon, and the operation by commando brigades began that evening, according to a ministry statement. It said the operation targeted Iraq's Hakurk region, just across the border from Turkey's southeastern tip, which also borders Iran. The Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militant group is based in northern Iraq, notably in the Qandil region to the south of Hakurk. "With this operation, the aim is to destroy the caves and shelters used by the terrorist organization and neutralize terrorists in the Hakurk region," the ministry said. Video published by the ministry showed helicopters landing commandos on mountainous terrain. It also shared photos showing shells fired by howitzers and soldiers perched on ridges, surveying hillsides with their rifles. "The operation, with the support of our attack helicopters, is continuing as planned," the statement said. The military frequently launches air strikes against PKK targets in northern Iraq but ground operations are less common. Nine militants were "neutralized" so far in the operation, the ministry said later in the day, using a term to refer to deaths, injuries or captures. It added that shelters and ammunition depots were also struck in air strikes in Qandil and Zap, another nearby region. The PKK launched an insurgency in mainly Kurdish southeast Turkey in 1984 and more than 40,000 people have been killed in the conflict. It is designated a terrorist group by Ankara, the European Union and United States. There was no comment from the PKK on the operation. (Reporting by Daren Butler; Additional reporting by Ali Kucukgocmen; Editing by Dominic Evans and Andrew Cawthorne) BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) Filled with paratroopers, a U.S. warplane lumbered down an English runway in 1944 to spearhead the World War II D-Day invasion with a message for Adolf Hitler painted in bright yellow across its nose: "That's All, Brother." Seventy-five years later, in a confluence of history and luck, that plane is again bound for the French coast for what could be the last great commemoration of the Allied battle to include D-Day veterans, many of whom are now in their 90s. Rescued from obscurity in Wisconsin after Air Force historians in Alabama realized its significance, the restored C-47 troop carrier that served as a lead aircraft of the main invasion force will join other vintage planes at 75th anniversary ceremonies in June. After flying over the Statue of Liberty in New York on Saturday, the plane embarked for Europe with other vintage aircraft along the same route through Canada, Greenland and Iceland that U.S. aircraft traveled during the war. There, it and other flying military transports are expected to drop paratroop re-enactors along the French coast at Normandy. "It's going to be historic, emotional," said pilot Tom Travis, who is helping fly That's All, Brother to Europe for the event. "It'll be the last big gathering." Air Force historian Matt Scales said there's no question that the twin-engine plane is the same one that led the main D-Day invasion. It's now operated today by the Texas-based Commemorative Air Force, which preserves military aircraft. "There's not a doubt in my mind. We have three separate documents that prove it," said Scales, who found the aircraft with help of a colleague. Scales tracked it down a few years ago while researching the late Lt. Col. John Donalson of Birmingham, who was credited with piloting the lead aircraft that dropped the main group of paratroopers along the French coast in preparation for the assault on June 6, 1944. Story continues The night before infantry squads hit the beaches, Donalson's aircraft and about 80 others were watched by news crews and military brass, including Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, as they took off, according to an official history by the 438th Troop Carrier Group. That's All, Brother was at the tip of about 900 planes that made the flight across the English Channel to drop some 13,000 paratroopers in all. Donalson's plane was in the lead partly because it was equipped with an early form of radar that homed in on electronic beacons set up on the French coast by a small group of paratroopers in "pathfinder" aircraft, Scales said. Some mountings of that electronic system remain on the C-47's fuselage. Scales found wartime information about Donalson's That's All, Brother aircraft and matched records from both the military and the Federal Aviation Administration to determine the plane, manufactured by Douglas Aircraft Co. in 1944, still existed. The aircraft was sold on the civilian market in 1945 and had changed hands several times before Scales found it. At one point, it was painted in a camouflage scheme similar to C-47s that flew during the Vietnam War. "It had never crashed, it had never been damaged," Scales said. "All the dozen owners who had it between the end of the war and when I found it had taken pretty good care of it." The aircraft was tracked down using identification numbers to a company in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and purchased by the Commemorative Air Force in 2015 following a fundraiser that brought in some $250,000, Scales said. It was badly corroded and partially disassembled, but all the main parts were there. With rebuilt piston engines, modern navigation and radio equipment and a fresh coat of paint, the reborn That's All, Brother made its inaugural flight in February 2018. A crew now travels with it, offering flights to veterans and others. The austere interior is lined with long metal benches for seats and the airframe is exposed for all to see. There's no insulation, so the engines' roar makes communication difficult when the props are spinning. A cable used to deploy paratroopers' chutes runs along the top of the cabin. Donalson, who retired with the rank of major general, died in 1987. But during a recent stop in Birmingham, two of his grandchildren were among those who climbed aboard the resurrected aircraft. Granddaughter Denise Harris sat in one of the seats occupied by a paratrooper for the ride to France. Harris struggled with the thought of being inside the same airplane her grandfather flew for the invasion in 1944. "It's unbelievable to think that all those men were in that plane also, and to hear the stories, and to know some of the people that came back," she said. It happened that just a few days ago, on May 22, the World Health Organization (WHO) convened for its annual assembly in Geneva. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter On the agenda were 21 issues; 20 of them were of great importance, such as the environmental impact of polio, for example. This is a non-political organization that deals with health issues, not international relations. The headquarters of the World Health Organization in Geneva But one of those 21 agenda items deals with one country and one country only: Israel. According to Article 14, "health conditions in the Occupied Palestinian Territories must be examined, including East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights." Wow! Muslim countries, joined by countries such as Venezuela, Bolivia and Cuba, have submitted a proposal about caring for the Palestinians. Why do just the Palestinians deserve a special item on the WHO agenda? Why is there no special item for the inhabitants of Yemen, Syria, Congo or Venezuela? In fact, the life expectancy of Palestinians in territories controlled by Israel, including Gaza, is 72.65 years. In Syria it is 69.51 years, in Bolivia it is 67.72 years, in Yemen 63.51 years and in Congo it's 61.42 years. Essentially, the Palestinians are in better health than the average citizens of the countries that submitted the proposal. Should they not be worrying about themselves first? But let's continue. Israeli control of the territories began in 1967. In a previous time, when those areas were under the control of Jordan and Egypt, life expectancy was 48.7 years (according to the most prominent Palestinian demographer, Dr. Wael R. Ennab). And while the Palestinians were once well below the world average for life expectancy, they now rank higher than most of the world including European countries like Turkey, Ukraine and Russia. Data on infant mortality rates indicates a similar jump. In 1967, Palestinian infant mortality rates were 152-162 deaths per 1,000 births. But in the last decade, it has been less than 20 deaths per 1,000 births. Mahmoud Abbas in hospital in Ramallah in May 2018, where Palestinian doctors treating him for pneumonia were assisted by an Israeli specialist (Photo: Reuters) This dramatic reversal across every health-related parameter is down to extensive cooperation between health centers in the Palestinian territories and Israeli health services. This cooperation included, for example, extensive training of Palestinian physicians and treatment of Palestinian patients in Israeli hospitals. It is doubtful that there is another population group that has undergone such a dramatic, positive change in such a short period of time. In fact, the World Health Organization should require Israel to continue this cooperation with the Palestinians, even in the event of a peace agreement. But when incitement, hatred and politics overtake common sense and facts, we have the absurd situation in which, of all the countries on the planet, the World Health Organization concerns itself solely with a population that, according to every possible parameter, is better off than the world average, and especially in countries hostile to Israel. In some parts of the world, the health situation is close to catastrophic. Ten million Yemenis are on the verge of starvation, and 22 million people in East Africa are in a similar state. One million people in Venezuela have malaria. But all these mega-problems are of no interest to the WHO. The organization is continuing the tradition of the United Nations Human Rights Council, which, in 2007, decided to introduce Article 7. This article requires the Council to discuss Israel - in fact, condemn Israel - in a permanent annual ritual. There is no such ritual for North Korea, Iran, Syria or Somalia; only Israel. This is not concern for human rights, it is an anti-Israel obsession. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus speaks at the organization's assembly in Geneva, May 20, 2019 Only three European countries have voted with the dark majority: France, Belgium and Sweden. Granted, Sweden and Belgium have a tradition of anti-Israel sentiment. But France? Why? Just two months ago, President Emmanuel Macron declared anti-Zionism to be a form of anti-Semitism. This was a courageous and justified statement, for what anti-Semitism did to the Jews is what anti-Zionism is doing to Israel. It is perfectly acceptable to criticize Israel. Even the undersigned is not a supporter of the current government, far from it. But obsession is not criticism; deliberately ignoring facts is not criticism. Joining in with these dark countries is not criticism. According to the working definition of anti-Semitism, "the practice of double standards" as seen at the WHO annual meeting, is a clear expression of anti-Semitism. France's support for the dark majority is an opportunity for soul-searching. For while it is permissible and even necessary to criticize Israel, an anti-Semitic vote, even if done inadvertently, is not the way. This is the message I intend to deliver Tuesday to members of the French National Assembly in Paris. Palestinian Authority head, when referring to the Trump peace plan launch in Bahrain next month said on Monday: "Anyone intending to find a solution to the question of Palestine must begin with a political solution and not an economic one." Abbas added "the peace plan and the economic conference will go to hell." IDF spokesmen reported Monday that a Syrian rocket launcher was destroyed after it fired at an Israeli military jet on a routine mission in the North. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights claims 2 dead including one officer. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will react with force to any act of aggression against it. Egyptian security forces have committed widespread abuses against civilians in restive northern Sinai peninsula, some of which amount to war crimes, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Tuesday, urging other nations to halt military assistance. The report accused security forces of arbitrary arrests including children, disappearances, torture, extrajudicial killings, collective punishment and forced evictions. Egypt's ground and air forces have been fighting Islamist insurgents in Sinai for years, in a conflict fuelled by wider Middle East dynamics and a history of state neglect and oppression of the poor and isolated region. There was no immediate reaction from the Egyptian government. Yisrael Beytenu leader Avigdor Liberman on Tuesday dismissed the claims made by Likud about the ultra-Orthodox parties being amazingly flexible about the IDF draft law, calling it a scam and not flexibility. The German government has called on people to wear the Jewish kippa ahead of an anti-Israel protest as a demonstration of solidarity and as Jews face a spike in anti-Semitism, withdrawing an earlier warning against wearing the traditional skullcap. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter At the weekend, Felix Klein, the country's commissioner on anti-Semitism sparked uproar when he said in an interview with the Funke regional press group that he could not "advise Jews to wear the kippa everywhere all the time in Germany." The Commissioner for Jewish Life in Germany and the Fight against Anti-Semitism Felix Klein President Reuven Rivlin voiced shock at Klein's warning and said it was a "capitulation to anti-Semitism" and evidence that Jews are unsafe in Germany. Late Monday, Klein reversed course after Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman intervened. "The state must see to it that the free exercise of religion is possible for all... and that anyone can go anywhere in our country in full security wearing a kippa," Steffen Seibert told a press conference. In his latest statement to Funke, Klein said: "I call on all citizens of Berlin and across Germany to wear the kippa next Saturday if there are new, intolerable attacks targeting Israel and Jews on the occasion of al-Quds day in Berlin." 'Kippa March' in Berlin last year (Photo: EPA) Al-Quds is an annual event against Israeli control of Jerusalem and will take place on Saturday. Klein also addressed his earlier statements, saying that he "could no longer recommend that Jews wear the kippa everywhere in Germany should be taken as an alarm signal." Earlier Monday, German daily Bild published a cut-out-and-use kippa in a bid to fight rising anti-Semitism. Bild, Germany's top-selling daily newspaper, called on readers to "stand in solidarity with (their) Jewish neighbors" by making "their own kippa", bearing the star of David, to "raise the flag against anti-Semitism." Bild's 'cutout and keep' kippa Germany, like other Western countries, has watched with alarm as anti-Semitic and other racist hate speech and violence have increased in recent years while the political climate has coarsened and grown more polarized. Anti-Semitic crimes rose by 20 percent in Germany last year, according to interior ministry data which blamed nine out of 10 cases on the extreme right. The arrival in parliament of the far-right AfD party, whose leaders openly question Germany's culture of atonement for World War II atrocities, has also contributed to the change in atmosphere. Merkel has also deplored "another form of anti-Semitism" stemming from a major asylum-seeker influx, with many coming from Muslim countries like Syria, Afghanistan or Iraq. The Central Council of Jews in Germany has already issued several warnings about wearing the kippa in public. In one prominent case last year, a 19-year-old Syrian man was convicted for assault after lashing out with his belt at an Israeli man wearing a Jewish skullcap while shouting "yahudi", Jew in Arabic. Yisrael Beytenu Chairman Avigdor Liberman on Tuesday dismissed the claims made by Likud about the ultra-Orthodox parties being amazingly flexible about the IDF draft law, calling it a scam and not flexibility. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter The remarks come after the Knesset passed in its first reading a bill to dissolve itself late Monday night, taking a step closer to another snap elections in just a matter of months. The vote was scheduled amid a deadlock in negotiations to form a coalition government. Avigdor Liberman with Benjamin Netanyahu as coalition partners in 2012 (Photo: AP) "The issue of the draft law only a symptom of the Haredi communitys extremism, which among other things includes the closure of supermarkets on Shabbat, shutting down construction on the Yehudit Bridge on weekends and attempts to close the ticket office at the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo on Saturdays," Liberman said. Yisrael Beytenus only motive is adhering to the principles and commitments made to the public before the last elections. We are not looking to bring down Netanyahu and we are not looking for an alternative candidate to support, but we will not give up our principles and promises to the citizens of the State of Israel," he said. Haredi parties oppose the new IDF draft law (Photo: Amit Shaabi ) Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has until Wednesday to reach the needed agreements in order to form a coalition, with Yisrael Beytenu refusing to compromise on the new IDF draft law (drafting the ultra-Orthodox into the military), which the Haredi parties oppose. The two held a meeting late Monday evening ahead of the Knesset vote, but Liberman left the meeting shortly after it began, while Netanyahu announced an immediate press-conference, where he publically called on the Yisrael Beytenu leader to consider a compromise. Cyber attacks on Israel's banking system have increased considerably over the past two years, according to the annual report by Supervisor of Banks Hedva Ber. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Speaking at a press conference to mark the release of this year's report, Ber said there are daily cyber attacks on Israeli banks but so far none have caused major damage. Supervisor of Banks Hedva Ber (Photo: Ronen Fadida) The report, which polled 80 high-ranking banking officials in Israel, found that 90% of them see cyber crimes as the most dangerous to their sector. The risk of cyber attacks has grown as more and more banks move their services online, in a positive move towards efficiency. The Bank of Israel said that attacks have increased both in number and veracity. The Bank of Israel (Photo: Ata Awisat) Thus far, cyber attacks have caused no substantial damage to Israeli banks, but this may change since the attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated. But experts say that given Israel's geopolitical position in the world, its banks are facing not only cyber attacks for financial gain, but also may be targets of cyber terrorism. Banking institutions worldwide have had private information compromised, considerable amounts of money stolen, and endured repeated embezzlement, among other cyber crimes. Illustration (Photo: Sutterstock) Israeli banks have increased their investment in cyber securit, setting up a joint body through which to share information and alerts. Cyber security drills are also carried out regularly, but the industry is concerned that there are no guarantees all future attacks will fail. The Bank of Israel urged customers to take their own steps to ensure their finances are not compromised by hackers. "We see bad actors impersonating customers, inserting bogus landing pages and more," said Bank of Israel officials. "We are doing everything we can, but customers must take precautions and never give out personal account information over the phone or online, regardless of how persuasive the requests are. Instead, customers must use their bank's secure online facilities via the app." Austria's president has condemned the repeated destruction of photos of Holocaust survivors exhibited on a central Vienna street. Alexander van der Bellen tweeted Monday that he was "deeply concerned" by the vandalism. France's foreign minister says his government is working to spare four French former members of the Islamic State group from execution after Iraq sentenced them to death. However, France has made no effort to bring back captured French IS fighters, including the four sentenced this week. Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian reiterated France's position on Tuesday, saying the four terrorists should be tried where they committed their crimes. As political history shows us, a lot can happen in 24 hours, and the chances of finding a creative solution to the current coalition crisis still exist. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter In the meantime, the battle over military draft exemptions for yeshiva (Jewish seminary) students rages on. This battle is mainly between Yisrael Beytenu Chairman Avigdor Liberman - who has recently acquired some political muscle - and the religious-Haredic bloc that is struggling to understand whats hit them. Yisrael Beytenu Chairman Avigdor Liberman (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky) There is still an element of cynicism in this fight - since at the end of the day were still in the world of politics - but this time the nature of the struggle is one over Israel's fundamental values. Its a struggle for the character, identity and direction of the country. Its one of the most important issues that decides whether were heading to Israelization of the ultra-Orthodox or, alternatively, to the Haredization of Israel (as Prof. Yossi Shain put it in his latest book, The Israeli Century). Liberman might not have meant to but he has, paradoxically, become a symbol of secular Zionism, traditionally the bastion of the kibbutz and the left-wing. Nobody would have intentionally chosen him as the representative of Israels democratic and liberal values. He certainly did not intend to become the servant of the Jewish-democratic camp, but inadvertently has, at least for the past few days. Meanwhile, Likud and their allies have been trying in recent days to present the Yisarel Beytenu leader as a spoiled brat with only five Knesset seats, whos trying to dictate to the Haredi-right-wing coalition that won the elections how to behave. They are mistaken, because without Liberman's seats this HHaredi-right-wing coalition falls apart. This political standoff, however, is definitely not a public one, as Liberman has the support of most Jewish people in Israel and even the support of most right-wing voters who would rather have Israelization than Haredization. Ultra-Orthodox men in Bnei Brak protesting against the Haredi draft, December 2018 Israel has for years been ruled by a minority that succeeded in cancelling the expansion of an egalitarian prayer space at the Western Wall, managed to see off core curriculm subjects in their schools, perpetuated inequality in IDF recruitment, boosted budgetary allocations for unemployment benefits (the ultra-Orthodox community has relatively high unemployment rates) and much more. Although there are signs of modernization within the Haredi public, the ultra-Orthodox leadership, by virtue of the coalition system, has become quite used to having this coercive power over the majority of Israelis. For the Haredi lawmakers, blackmail became a way of life long ago, but now suddenly Liberman has come along and dared to play by the exact same rules as they do. Except Liberman, unlike the ultra-Orthodox, has the backing of the Israeli public. During this last election campaign, there wasnt a single issue on the agenda that was realistically achievable (and if it were achievable, it was never properly discussed),. This is because the entire campaign revolved around Benjamin Netanyahu, who the more he was bashed by others, the stronger he became. He won the national vote and appeared to clinch all the needed coalition agreements. Until Liberman decided to remind everyone there are more important issues than Knesset seats. Benjamin Netanyahu and Avigdor Liberman in the Knesset (Photo: Archive/AP) Liberman was given the coveted defense ministry and key committee chairmanships, and could have had even more if he had but asked. But, believe it or not, he insisted on sticking to his principles and - sincere or not - it was a refreshing change in Israeli politics. Its also refreshing for an Israeli public thats used to being the bottom of the list during coalition negotiations. If the ultra-Orthodox minority is allowed to drive us mad, then surely Liberman is also allowed to drive them mad (and if he had been unwilling to do it, we would have been forced to invent someone who was). If the new elections do indeed go ahead, they might not actually lead to a different outcome and ultimately be just one giant waste of resources. But if Liberman's stubborness manages to put an end to the rule of the minority in the Knesset - or even merely put a crack in the foundations of this system - its well worth the price. What will the world say? For years this has been the de facto excuse of the Israeli government when it is accused of not really trying to defeat the terrorist organizations in Gaza. But why? Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter It is not the international community that is stopping Israel from hitting these terror groups hard. After a year of battles of attrition against Hamas and Islamic Jihad, one could easily say that if and when Israel decides to defeat these organizations, there will not exactly be a deafening chorus of condemnation from the international stage - even by the Arab states. Rocket launches from Gaza towards Israel (Photo: Reuters) Towards the end of the last deadly round of violence earlier this month, which claimed the lives of four Israelis, condemnation of the massive rocket barrage launched from Gaza into Israel could be heard from several members of the international community. One might expect such messages of support from Israel's friends in Washington, Warsaw and Prague, and indeed they came. But condemnation also came from Paris, Oslo, and even from the European Union's foreign minister, Federica Mogherini, who could never be accused of being a massive Zionist. Without condemning the "violence on both sides," without any attempt to create a false symmetry and without the whitewashed statements we became so used to in the past, Europe stood unequivocally alongside Israel and against Hamas. IDF troops on the Gaza border during the 2014 war (Photo: Ido Erez) But the Israeli political echelon chooses to shut its ears and its eyes to the declarations of support and the green light to act issued by the international community. In fact, Israel has chosen to ignore this state of affairs for the past five years, since the end of Operation Protective Edge in 2014. During those 50 days of fighting in Gaza, Israel did not come under any real pressure from the rest of the world. Intensive and efficient diplomacy meant that the IDF had breathing room of the kind it had not experienced in many years. But Jerusalem and the military brass did not successfully exploit this, and instead of making real diplomatic gains, were content to return to the same understandings reached two years earlier after Operation Pillar of Defense. A home in Ashkelon damaged in a Gaza rocket strike (Photo: AP) It would be an exaggeration to say that the world is letting the IDF "win," but the Israeli government is not really doing this either. Israel of 2019 has cast aside the country's fundamental security concept, which always rested on the three legs of deterrence, vigilance and decisiveness. The first leg was thoroughly eroded, the second weakened and the third is no longer part of the equation. Israel does not aspire to any form of decision-making and prefers to operate from one round of violence to the next. A decision does not have to be military in nature, it can also made on the diplomatic level. But in order to make a decision, one must have targets and objectives. Hamas has been doing this successfully for more than a year on its watch, funds have been transferred from Qatar to the Gaza Strip, the Gaza fishing zone was expanded, additional raw materials were allowed into the Gaza Strip, the electricity supply expanded, and more. Israel, on the other hand, is motivated by a desire to achieve certain goals but rather out of fear. It is fearful of setting diplomatic targets and of a prolonged confrontation. The political echelon is afraid to set objectives for one simple reason: if you do not set objectives, you cannot fail to achieve them. Benjamin Netanyahu and his generals during the fighting with Gaza earlier this month (Photo: GPO) The images published of the prime minister at situation assessments during the last few rounds of fighting with Gaza do not show a single other civilian official. And when the only voices in the room are those of the security forces, the decision-makers are working with a partial toolbox and from the outset are solely bound to a military option, which ultimately means going down the familiar path that leads to nowhere. It would not do anyone any harm to recall the famous words of U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt, who told his people that, "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself." President Donald Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner is in the Middle East to drum up support for his as-yet unveiled Israeli-Palestinian peace plan. A White House official says Kushner, along with Trump's special envoy for international negotiations Jason Greenblatt and special Iran envoy Brian Hook, are in Morocco and will visit Jordan and Israel later this week. The trip comes as the U.S. prepares to roll out the economic portion of the plan at a conference in Bahrain in late June. The Palestinians have already rejected the peace plan and have urged Arab nations to avoid the conference. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have already indicated they will participate. An Iraqi court on Tuesday sentenced two high-profile French members of the Islamic State group to death, bringing the total number of French former jihadis condemned to death this week to six. France said it would do all it can to spare the group from execution in Iraq. Although it has made no effort to bring back the captured fighters, France is outspoken against the death penalty globally. The sentencings in Iraq come amid a controversy about the legal treatment of thousands of foreign fighters who had joined IS at the height of its power in Syria and Iraq when the militant group declared its self-styled caliphate. The men sentenced to death Tuesday were identified as Karam Salam Mohammed El-Harchaoui and Brahim Ali Mansour Nejara. They are among a group of 12 French citizens who were detained by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces in neighboring Syria and handed over to Iraq in January. The Kurdish-led group spearheaded the fight against IS in Syria and has handed over to Iraq hundreds of suspected IS members in recent months. Avigdor Liberman has an advantage over other politicians - he cannot be lured by an offer of a job, he's had many of them. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Liberman has already been defense minister and knows full well how easy it is demand decisive military action standing outside the Defense Ministry and how hard it is to execute it from within, especially when the prime minister is as indecisive as Netanyahu has been. Avigdor Liberman in the Knesset (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky) He's already been Foreign Minister and has no interest in the Finance Ministry. The offer of becoming deputy and locum to the prime minister, even if he were to want it, would never come his way. Netanyahu would never risk anyone in position to step in to his job if he were forced to leave it. "Politics for me is not an obsession" Liberman once said. But to others, it is. Liberman can see the obsession underneath Netanyahu's heavy make-up and is unable to hide his contempt. Netanyahu, in his televised speech Monday, said new elections would be a waste of time and money. True. But what he neglected to say is that he alone has dragged the country to early elections, twice. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu giving a televised speech on Monday night (Photo: EPA) One time was over Sheldon Adelson's free "Israel Hayom" daily, a paper launched to support the prime minister's own career. The second time was over criminal charges still pending against him. Netanyahu has never put the country before his own personal advantage, and when it comes to his legal woes, he is obsessed. From his position outside government, Liberman can observe Likud ministers as they try to come to grips with the possibility that Likud may be ousted from power, threatened not by the opposition or even the voters. The real danger to Likud is from its own leader, Benjamin Netanyahu, but they say nothing. Likud minister Ofir Akunis (Photo: Yoav Dudkevitch) They say nothing because they have ambitions, they have aspirations. They want better ministerial positions, to lead important committees, have seats at the inner cabinet table and even help in primary elections. They are bound and gagged by their ambition. For when it comes to the pecking order in Likud, they are obsessed. If by midnight Wednesday there is no coalition agreement and as a result no government, then 61 members of Knesset can sign an affirmation for President Reuven Rivlin to grant Netanyahu an extension, giving him more time to reach an agreement. But the Likud fears that Rivlin may task someone else with the job of putting together a coalition, so is opting for fresh elections. When it comes to Rivlin, Netanyahu is obsessed. President Reuven Rivlin (Photo: Amit Shabi) Netanyahu now aiming his fire in all directions at once. He has even enlisted the president of the United States, who on Monday obligingly tweeted that he hoped to be able to continue to work with Netanyahu as prime minister. He enlisted the Syrian anti-air defenses, threatening action after a missile was launched at an Israeli jet flying near the Syrian border. His Israel Hayom mouthpiece is already in the trenches and close Likud ally Ze'ev Elkin an immigrant from the former Soviet Union, was dispatched to try to sway Liberman's Russian-speaking voter base, threatening them with the loss of pension reforms and thereby punishing them for Liberman's perceived sins. Liberman from his vantage point on the outside, can observe the panic on the inside. He observes that Deputy Health Minister Yaakov Litzman of United Torah Judaism is too scared to push back on his rabbi's excessive demands, while he whispers in the old man's ear that Litzman has gone soft and is pandering to the secular ministers. Deputy Health Minister Yaakov Litzman (Photo: GPO) The head of the Union of Right-Wing Parties, Rafi Peretz, is panicking too. With his little understanding of the political game, Peretz hides in the shadows hoping not to be discovered by political partner Bezalel Smotrich, who runs circles around him and leaves Peretz to clean up the mess. Liberman observes the opposition, in particular Blue and White leader Benny Gantz, who so wants to be loved by the left and the right, the religious and the secular, oblivious to the fact no one so beloved has ever become prime minister of Israel. He sees the cracks beginning to appear, the egos and conflicting views. He sees the Blue and White leadership lacking the fire, the hunger and the ambition to rule. Liberman knows any right-wing leader attempting to form a government would have played one side of the aisle against the other, negotiating with the center-left as well as the far-right. Netanyahu, however, knowing that the opposition would never provide him with immunity for his myriad corruption investigations, conducted all coalition negotiations from a clear disadvantage. Egyptian security forces have committed widespread abuses against civilians in northern Sinai, some of which amount to war crimes, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Tuesday. Egypt's ground and air forces last year launched a major operation in Sinai to crush Islamist militants behind a wave of attacks against civilians and security forces. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi ordered the operation after gunmen killed hundreds of worshippers at a Sinai mosque months earlier. The HRW report accused security forces of arbitrary arrests including children, torture, extrajudicial killings, collective punishment and forced evictions. An Egyptian military spokesman denied the report, saying it was based on undocumented sources. "The armed forces take into consideration the lives of civilians while implementing military operations against terrorist elements by conducting air raids outside population centres," the military said in a statement. President Donald Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner is in Morocco to seek King Mohammed VI's backing for economic elements of the Trump administration's still-secret peace plan for Israel and Palestine. The Trump administration is stepping up efforts to build support for the plan, as the architects of the proposal began a Mideast tour this week aimed at winning over uneasy Arab nations. A White House official said Tuesday the trip "is part of our ongoing efforts to achieve peace between Israel and the Palestinians" but offered no specifics about the team's agenda at its various stops. The administration is keen to win support from members of the Arab League on whom the plan will rely heavily for both economic and political support. Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Tuesday that his country was ready to engage in dialogue with Gulf Arab countries in order to address escalating tensions in the region. Araqchi met Qatar Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani in Doha, where the two sides "expressed their concern about escalations and problems in the region", a Qatar Foreign Ministry statement said. Tensions have risen between Iran on one side and the United States and its Gulf allies Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on the other. Washington has deployed a carrier strike group and bombers and announced plans to deploy 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict. France's foreign minister said on Tuesday there were signs that chemicals had been used in attacks by Syrian government forces on rebels in northwest Syria, but they still needed to be verified. The United States said on May 23 it had received numerous reports that appeared consistent with chemical exposure after forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad launched an offensive on the rebel stronghold. "We have a sign of the use of chemical weapons in the Idlib area but for now there isn't verification," Jean-Yves Le Drian told the French parliament's foreign affairs committee. "We are cautious because we think that the use of chemical weapons must be confirmed and lethal before we react," he said. Syria's government denies using chemical weapons. How do you get citizens from rural and urban areas working together for clean water? You come up with a way to reward farmers and ranchers for doing the right thing. Thats exactly what the Cheney Lake Watershed has been doing around Wichita, Kan. for more than two decades. Projects like these will increase as water resources become increasingly scarce. I have met many farmers in Kansas who have literally ran out of water. Water woes will be a story that all of us will face in the future because there are water shortages happening across the state, neighboring states, the nation and globally. Because of that, even areas that have more water than others, will feel the pressure from a growing population that will need water from other areas. Information provided by law enforcement in Salina, Kan., says that on May 18, Saline County Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to The Shady Lady, 1540 W. Old Hwy 40, after a man allegedly had his wallet stolen around 1:15 AM. A 57-year-old man from Tryon Nebraska was inside the establishment and went out to his vehicle to get more money. He reported two men approached him from behind and took his wallet from his pocket. The 57-year-old followed the two over to their vehicle, reached through the window and grabbed the steering wheel in attempt to keep them from leaving. The passenger got out a gun and threatened the man. The victim reported the two left in a dark colored car. The total loss includes $20 in cash, the wallet, and other assorted contents of the wallet. YORK Valuation notices will be sent to York County property owners on June 1. Only owners whose property valuations changed since last year will receive notices. If you dont receive a valuation notice, that means your valuation stayed the same as it was last year, York County Assessor Ann Charlton explained earlier. If it went up or down, you will receive a valuation notice. What follows, then, in the month of June, is the opportunity to question and even protest valuations if a property owner so chooses. If someone files a protest, it will be heard by the county commissioners sometime in early July. They make the decision as to whether the assessors valuation is correct . . . if the property owner wants to appeal that decision they can go to the Nebraska Tax Equalization and Review Commission (TERC). We are encouraging property owners who have questions about their valuations to contact my office, Charlton says. They can call me or stop in at the office, and we can have a chat about their concerns, or questions, or if they want to provide additional information, or to clarify information. If someone wants to protest their valuation, they have until the end of the business day on Monday, July 1. Typically, the deadline is June 30 but because that day falls on a Sunday this year, an extra day will been made available. 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. By RICHARD JENKINS [email protected] PENCE, Wis. The driver of an all-terrain vehicle is dead after he crashed his vehicle while riding in the town of Pence early Sunday morning. Iron County Sheriffs Department deputies and Beacon Ambulance personnel responded to the scene of the accident at the intersection of Spring Camp Road and Whiteside Street shortly after 12:10 a.m., according to Sheriff Paul Samardich. Those responding to the scene found the man involved in the single-vehicle crash unresponsive. Iron County Coroner Diane Simonich pronounced the man dead at the scene, Samardich said in a press release, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources was contacted to assist in the crash investigation. Samardich later identified the mans as Christopher A. Thomas, 50, of Pence. Although the DNR is continuing to investigate the crash, Samardich said speed and alcohol are believed to have been factors. The Montreal Fire Department also responded to the crash scene. Along with the crash in Pence, Iron County deputies also responded to an accident on a remote section of Lake Superior beach in the town of Gurney this weekend. Michigan Central Dispatch contacted Iron County 911 about a dropped cell call at approximately 4:12 p.m. Saturday with GPS coordinates tied to a location near Birch Hill and Graveyard Creek in Gurney. Iron County 911 received a second call reporting an ATV crash in the area, with initial reports indicating a 20-year-old woman was unresponsive after sustaining head trauma. According to Samardich, a UTV operated by a man, 34, ran over the Ironwood woman while she was sitting on the beach. Iron Countys recreational officer, Saxon First Responders, Beacon Ambulance, Hurley Fire and Rescue and the DNR responded to the scene, where rescue personnel stabilized the woman so she could be transported to the ambulance that was several miles away. Aspirus Medivac later transported the woman to a hospital facility in North Central Wisconsin, Samardich said. The Kimball Fire Department assisted with securing the landing zone for the medivac helicopter. The DNR continues to investigate the incident. Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews explained on Saturday that taxes are rising in the state in order for his government to deliver more than what was promised and not to fill a $5.2 billion revenue void. The anticipated increases form part of the recently-revealed Victorian budget, which was delivered by Treasurer Tim Pallas on Monday. Pallas announcement marked his fifth budget and the first of the Andrews government's second term. The fiscal plan was delayed by a month due to the federal election. Andrews explained the decision on the day before the delivery of the budget. At the same time, he reaffirmed that the budget will have a surplus and is set to pay for all of his election promises. Weve always been focused on having that buffer, you run those surpluses, and you promise within your means so that if you do have a write-down in revenue or you have unexpected expenditure youre still able to deliver on your promises, Andrews told reporters. Yes therell be some additional revenue coming in from some fairly modest changes to the tax system that affect a very small number of Victorians and some people who are not Victorians but buy property here and that allows us to go beyond the promises we made to do even more like the billion dollars we announced in prisons on Friday. Foreign property investors to face hurdles The foreign investor duty will rise from 7% to 8% from July 01. Nearly 3,000 foreign owners, meanwhile, will have to grapple with a rise in the absentee owner tax up from 1.5% to 2%. Additionally, about 1,700 metropolitan Melbourne property owners will have to pay land tax on the vacant blocks they own next to their homes unless they pay nearly $600 to consolidate titles. A land tax exemption will be abolished for land that is next door to a person's home but on a separate title and without a separate residence, according to a report by ABC News. The government said that it is putting an end to the exemption to discourage land banking. Revenue forecasts from stamp duty have been revised down by $5.2 billion since November on the back of a cooling property market. Pallas also said that Victoria posted the biggest 12-month decline in property prices in the state's history over the past year. The government forecasts steady growth in stamp duty revenue from 2020-2021. Arizona News Phoenix, Arizona - In honor of Memorial Day, Governor Doug Ducey today released the following statement: America is the land of the free because of the brave and never is that better understood than on Memorial Day. Today, we remember that the freedom we enjoy as Americans has come at great costa cost paid by those willing to serve and to sacrifice everything. America is the freest, most exceptional country in the world because of those who have given their lives to make it that way. And we will never forget that. This Memorial Day weekend, we honor those who have given the last full measure of devotion to keep our country safe. And to their families and loved ones, we are eternally grateful. I wish all Arizonans and their families a very meaningful Memorial Day. In honor of Memorial Day, flags at all state office buildings will be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to noon on Monday, May 27, 2019. The flags should then be raised to full-staff at noon. Arizona News Phoenix, Arizona - May 20, Shaun Gui Hale, 33, of Oak Springs, Arizona, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John J. Tuchi to seven years imprisonment. Hale had previously pleaded guilty to domestic assault by strangling or suffocation, a domestic violence offense. During the night of April 29-30, 2017, Hale perpetrated a prolonged assault against the victim while they were alone together in Hales residence. Hale repeatedly punched the victim, and also strangled her into unconsciousness, inflicting serious injuries. Both Hale and the victim were members of the Navajo Nation, and the offense occurred in Oak Springs, on the Navajo Nation Indian Reservation. The investigation was conducted by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys William G. Voit and Krista J. Wood, District of Arizona, Phoenix. Arizona News Phoenix, Arizona - Justin Mannheimer, 31, of Inscription House, Arizona, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Douglas Rayes to eight years imprisonment. Mannheimer had previously pleaded guilty to sexual conduct with a minor and domestic assault by strangling, a domestic violence offense. Between August 1, 2017 and December 14, 2017, Mannheimer kept the victim, a minor, at his home -- at times without her consent. During this time frame he sexually assaulted and strangled the victim. Both Mannheimer and the victim were members of the Navajo Nation, and the offense occurred in Inscription House, on the Navajo Nation Indian Reservation. The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sharon K. Sexton, District of Arizona, Phoenix. 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. Setting the stage Customer data is at the center of online retail.1 Retailers are driven by customers, suppliers, and now advertisers to become more data-informed. Customers expect to be recognised, served relevant products, and presented with offers that satisfy their individual needs. Suppliers and advertisers want to effectively influence customers during the critical moments before purchase. E-commerce websites are media assets that can connect brands directly with customers in a transactional mindset. While retailers are seizing this opportunity to create more value with suppliers and brands, a superior customer experience remains the big prize. At the center of these efforts is a common goal: to translate an understanding of customers behaviour into a competitive advantage in the online retail industry. Retailers are diverse, but data is a priority across the globe. While data is universal, there are regional nuances that affect how retailers approach digital transformation in the United States, EMEA, and APAC. The UK is considered a global leader in omnichannel retail, including online channels, but in other parts of Europe, not all omnichannel players have the same urgency to transition online. In APAC, China leads the way in e-commerce market maturity, including payment and fulfillment innovations, while in Indonesia, the focus is on capturing new customers from increasing Internet connectivity and smartphone adoption. In the United States, the retail market is thriving yet is facing some market turmoil as the rise of digitally native brands has shifted competitive dynamics in the e-commerce retail landscape. Despite the variability across regions, customer data is used by retailers around the world to better serve and communicate with customers. This global emphasis on data is leading to tighter data privacy regulations, such as the European Unions General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Although the long-term impact of GDPR and other impending regulations is unknown, the intent of the regulations is to protect consumers. Retailers who prioritise data governance and compliance with these new regulations and engage in public policy development are positioning themselves to thrive. It would be stating the obvious in noting that there was a Modi wave in the landslide win for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in this year's general elections. While there is little doubt that the political genius of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the awesome reach of the BJPs political machinery led by party chief Amit Shah was important as I have tried to explain in another piece, there was more to it than meets the eye. It had something to do with the national mood. In the growth of any plant, the seed, the water and the fertiliser are important, but so is the soil. I like to think that the national mood is comparable to the soil. Electoral politics a complex business in which parties and leaders try to capture a number of factors and feelings in a manner that results in the pressing of a single button by a single voter on one symbol in a mammoth nationwide exercise. That makes predictions difficult. But post-facto analysis often reveals interesting patterns. My own take is that there this year, there was something in the national mood that favoured not just Modi but others who had qualities similar to him. I would like to say that this year's Modi Wave was a subset of a nationwide "leadership wave" in which the parties that did well were those perceived to have strong leaders - not in the political sense but in the sense of administrative capabilities. This requires a strong (and strange) mix of decisiveness, empathy and concern for issues. Now, let's look at who were those other than the BJP who did reasonably well in terms of the seats won as a share of seats in which they were in the reckoning. The final results table shows the DMK won 23 seats out of 39 in Tamil Nadu, the Biju Janata Dal 12 seats out of 21 in Odisha, the All India Trinamool Congress with 22 out of 42 in West Bengal and the YSR Congress 22 out of 25 in Andhra Pradesh did remarkably. Odisha Chief Minister Biju Patnaik and Andhra Pradesh's YSR Congress leader Jagan Reddy steered clear of both the NDA and UPA and yet showed a creditable performance and managed to contain the Modi wave sweeping the country. DMK's MK Stalin had the power of the Dravidian ideology and a strong party organisation backing him, but, like Patnaik and Reddy, he worked hard to tower as the strongest local leader with an active interest in local issues. My contention is that these leaders could work some magic because, despite their differing styles, they moved empathetically among local people and dealt with local issues in an articulate manner. Trinamool's Mamata Banerjee was up against difficult factors such as illegal infiltration on the state border that helped the BJP's Hindutva politics. Her own militant style also worked against her but at the same she has shown strong administrative capabilities as a chief minister. However, like Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of the Aam Aadmi Party, she showed signs of vulnerability because she played the victim rather than project herself as a master. Patnaik, Reddy and Stalin exuded positive energy and a capacity to govern - despite their individual differences. These men in that sense were just like Modi. My view is that ideology mattered less this year compared with immediate issues and a positive leadership style. That is why I call this a leadership wave. Now, look at Punjab. The Indian National Congress won 8 out of the state's 13 seats, helping the grand old party led by Rahul Gandhi take the national tally to 52. I would credit Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh for that. What is common between Patnaik, Reddy, Stalin and Captain Singh? They are all articulate men who do not whine much. They understand local aspirations and show a capacity to govern. Patnaik is not a demagogue but showed a tremendous capacity to show sensitivity in listening and designing programmes, such as the showpiece KALIA scheme for agriculture that covers landowners, sharecroppers and landless labourers alike. Relative to these men, Kejriwal and Mamata Banerjee showed themselves to be more like protesters than governance executives. Modi's acidic speeches against the Congress showed him in a similar light in media reports but it is important to note he exuded strength after the Balakot air strikes in Pakistan, and the BJP's machinery was working in tandem to showcase his development schemes. Congress had a solid manifesto, but the leadership style, like that of Mamata and Kejriwal, was more of "They are bad" than "We are cool." Leadership is a complex business, but it is my firm conclusion that the national mood favoured positive leadership. The ones who managed to check Modi were precisely those who, like him, knew how to blend politics with governance with a confident, methodical approach. Modi converted the parliamentary elections into a presidential-style contest. Those who could take him on showed similar traits. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) Mumbai: On Menstrual Hygiene Day on Tuesday, actor Akshay Kumar, who gave a push to conversation on menstrual hygiene with his film "PadMan", urged people to help women feel hygienic and safe. "Happy Menstrual Hygiene Day to all the girls, mothers and sisters. Let's all help every girl child feel hygienic, safe and confident every day of the month. Period," Akshay wrote on Twitter. Along with the tweet, he posted a photograph from his movie. He, along with his co-star Radhika Apte among others, are seen holding sanitary pads. Radhika also wrote: "Happy Menstrual Hygiene Day." "PadMan", directed by R. Balki, is based on Arunachalam Muruganantham, who created a revolution in the field of affordable menstrual hygiene. Arunachalam's fight against menstrual taboo was even narrated in Twinkle Khanna's book "The Legend of Lakshmi Prasad". RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Monday claimed that Hindu Mahasabha leader Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was the first proponent of the two-nation theory and the idea was later taken forward by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the late founder of Pakistan. The Congress leader was speaking at a function on Nehru's 55th death anniversary organised at the party's state headquarters 'Rajiv Bhawan' in Raipur. "Savarkar, who was a leader of the Hindu Mahasabha, had sown the seed of division of the country which was later implemented by Muhammad Ali Jinnah," he had said. He also added that it is a historical fact that in Hindu Mahasabha, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar had proposed that Hindustan should be independent as two nations. "He had put forth the demand of two nations on religious ground and Muhammad Ali Jinnah implemented it. It is a fact and no one can prove it wrong." Live TV Hailing Nehru for being a true democrat, he said Baghel said that the then PM started AIIMS, nuclear programme, space programme to build the nation. "Bhilai Steel Plant set up in our state is an example of his farsightedness to eliminate hunger and unemployment," he said. However, the CM came under sharp criticism from his predecessor for his comments. Former chief minister and Bharatiya Janata Party vice-president Raman Singh said the comments reflect the shock that the party has suffered in the recently concluded Lok Sabha election. "The comments came as a result of shock over his party's debacle in the Lok Sabha polls," he said adding that a debate on division and background of division of the country is not required today. Singh also added that Baghel should not make such comments if he has limited knowledge of history. "He (Baghel) should read history once again. He should have a better understanding of history. He should not speak more with limited knowledge," he said. Of the 11 Lok Sabha seats in the state, the BJP won nine, while the Congress got just two. This after the Congress stormed to power in Chhattisgarh in December 2018 in the assembly polls, ending the 15-year-old BJP rule. San Francisco: Google is set to finally pull the plug on the standalone YouTube Gaming app in just a few days, months after it announced it would be merged with the standard YouTube platform. "We want to continue to build a stronger home for the gaming community that thrives on YouTube, not just the YouTube Gaming app. After May 2019, we`ll retire the YouTube Gaming app and focus our gaming efforts across YouTube," the company wrote in its support page. The tech giant had made the announcement in September 2018 but missed the original March shutdown date. YouTube Gaming visitors who may have saved or viewed content over the years would run of luck as the video sharing platform says it`s not possible to transfer games already saved on YouTube Gaming. The company suggested that subscribers club their YouTube Gaming and normal YouTube subscriptions. Surat: Patidar agitation spearhead and Congress leader Hardik Patel was on Monday detained by police soon after he drove into Surat to hold a protest at the site of the devastating fire on Friday that claimed 22 young lives. Patel had threatened to undertake a hunger strike at the site of the fire in the city`s Sarthana area if the Gujarat government did not take action against the Surat mayor and other fire department officials over the tragedy that occurred in the Takshashila Arcade building. The Congress had sought police permission to hold the protest but it was denied. Surat Police Commissioner Satish Sharma told reporters that despite denial of permission he was on his way to the fire site. Sharma added: "The permission could not be given, also because he was attacked by a member of his rival group when he visited the site yesterday (Sunday) and it was a question of his protection. And then, we cannot allow him to visit the area every day." Patel was later released. Meanwhile, a senior member of the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) of Surat Dharmik Malaviya said he was detained from Kamrej highway at the entry point to Surat when he was on his way to the house of reservation agitation leader Alpesh Kathiriya, who is currently in jail in a sedition case. New Delhi: The Delhi University is likely to begin the admission process from May 30, sources said on Monday. This has by far been the most delayed admission session, officials said. In a meeting held on Monday, it was decided that the registration process will commence from May 30 and will go on for a fortnight. The cut-offs will be announced by the varsity almost a week after the registration process ends, sources said. They said the admission portal will show candidates details like how many seats are available in the college and the course they are applying for, how many students have applied for those seats and how fast are the seats being filled up. The Delhi University's admission committee is yet to decide on the agency that will conduct the entrance exams for admission to various courses in the varsity, leading to a delay in the start of the process. However, sources said the National Testing Agency is likely to be finalised as the agency for conducting the entrance exams. However, a final decision will be made soon on it. Meanwhile, the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad on Monday submitted a letter to the varsity administration inquiring about the delay in the commencement of the admission process and urging them to initiate it quickly. The ABVP said the delay is worrisome for students. Last year, the registration process had begun on May 15, days before the CBSE results were announced. This year, the CBSE announced results of class 12 examination on May 2, in record 28 days. Usually, the class 12 results are announced by third week of May. New Delhi: The Delhi University (DU) has directed all colleges of the varsity to carry out forensic analysis of documents submitted by students during the time of admission in order to avoid a case like that of former DUSU president Ankiv Baisoya who allegedly submitted fake marksheets. The varsity is also mulling over having smart identity cards for students. The DU's admission process is likely to begin by May 30. "Till now, different colleges had different identity cards and there was no uniformity. From this year, the identity cards will look similar but have the name of the college stamped on it. It was also found some colleges were issuing identity cards after six months of a student getting admission, so it was felt that smart ID cards be introduced," an official said. The varsity will be providing a list of empanelled agencies to conduct document forensics to the colleges to conduct forensic analysis of documents submitted by students. This year, the varsity has tied up with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to gain access to class 12 results of students and when students will be checking in to the portal to register themselves, they will be asked whether they have studied from a CBSE board school and if they reply in the affirmative, the results will be accessed by the varsity. "More than 80 per cent of the students applying to the varsity for admissions are from the CBSE and we will have to carry out the examination of documents of the remaining 20 per cent of the students. In case documents submitted by a student is found fake, a case will be filed with police," the official said. Live TV Last year, the Delhi Police had registered an FIR against former Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) president Baisoya for allegedly furnishing fake marksheets to get admission in the Delhi University. This time, the work of the colleges will be easier as the weightage calculation with respect to different boards will be automated. "The CBSE has a ratio of 70:30 for theory and practical and this is accepted as a standard by the DU for admission. "Students from other boards, where the ratio might differ, seeking admission to the varsity while filling forms, will be provided the breakup in the 70:30 ratio automatically, thus easing the work of the colleges and maintaining accuracy," he added. LUCKNOW: At least 12 people have died and several others were taken ill after consuming spurious liquor in Ramnagar area of Barabanki district in Uttar Pradesh, police said Tuesday. Confirming the news, Lekhpal, Sadar Badel told ANI thaht eight people have died in Ramnagar and on Tuesday three people were admitted at the hospital. "I have got information that eight people have died in Ramnagar. Today, 3 people were admitted at the hospital out of which one person has passed away," Lekhpal said. Barabanki: Eight people have died after consuming spurious liquor in Ramnagar yesterday. Lekhpal, Sadar Badel, says, "I have got information that eight people have died in Ramnagar. Today, 3 people were admitted at the hospital out of which one person has passed away." pic.twitter.com/NHD80dfzNi ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 28, 2019 Sources told Zee Media that two people are in critical condition and nine have been referred to Lucknow Trauma Centre. It is learnt that some of those affected by spurious liquor have lost their vision. It is learnt that some Samajwadi Party leaders have arrived at the Trauma Centre in Barabanki. Meanwhile, Excise Department has suspended District Excise Officer for dereliction of duty. The DGP of Uttar Pradesh has also swung into action and has suspended Ramnagar SHO Rajesh and Circle Officer Ramnagar Pawan Gautam. UP Excise Minister Jai Pratap Singh told ANI that one district administration official, 5 police personnel and 3 head constable have been suspended with immediate effect. Live TV Taking serious note of the incident, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered senior officials to visit Barabanki and take strict action against the guilty. Government sources told PTI that Yogi Adityanath has also ordered the principal secretary, excise, to conduct a thorough inquiry in this matter and punish the guilty. It may be recalled that at least 30 people were killed in February this year after drinking spurious liquor in Uttar Pradesh's Saharanpur and Kushinagar districts and Uttarakhand's Roorkee. At least 16 people had died after drinking spurious liquor in Saharanpur and Kushinagar districts. Security agencies have said in a report to Home Ministry that Pakistan's ISI has hatched a conspiracy to target senior retired police and Army officers in Punjab and other parts of India. Named 'Project Harvesting Canada', the whole plan is a top-secret and only top ISI officials are aware of it. According to reports, the ISI has given the task to successfully execute 'Project Harvesting Canada' to Khalistani terrorist based in Canada. Home Ministry sources said that the Pakistani intelligence agency ISI is providing several kinds of help to Khalistani terrorists and their supporters in order to create disturbances in Punjab. Earlier also the intelligence agency had got inputs that ISI had directed Khalistani terrorists to target retired police officers in Pakistan and other parts of India. Live TV Indian security agencies are trying to find out how many Khalistani terrorists have been recruited by ISI so far for the execution of 'Project Harvesting Canada'. The agencies are also focused on finding out the network of these terrorists. Pakistan's ISI is also hatching conspiracies to malign the image of the Indian Army. Sources said that ISI is circulating several fake documents related to Army in order to create a bad image of Army. The ISI is using social media to circulate these fake documents. It may be recalled that few days ago a letter purportedly released by Military Intelligence was doing the rounds of media and the letter claimed that all Sikh jawans in Indian Army are under the scanner of intelligence agencies. The letter later turned out to be fake and it was found that ISI is circulating these kinds of letters with the help of a separatist group named 'Sikh For Justice'. The same group had staged demonstrations against Army in different parts of the world claiming that the content of the fake letter was true. The Home Ministry report also said that ISI is taking help from Sikh For Justice to brainwash the young Punjabis. It is to be noted that ISI is funding Sikh For Justice, which is focused on misleading Sikhs around the world against India. Kerala's coastal areas continue to remain on alert after there were intelligence reports that there is a possibility of ISIS movement here. Speaking to members of the press on Tuesday, Kerala DGP Loknath Behera said that there is no need to press the panic button. "Kerala's coast is fully covered. It's always better to be alert rather than complacent," he said. "Intelligence, coastal security, local police, and Quick Response Teams (QRT) have been alerted. We're ready and people should not feel insecure." Intelligence reports last week had warned of boats carrying 15 ISIS terrorists from Sri Lanka may attempt to enter Indian waters around Lakshadweep islands. The Indian Coast Guard deployed its ships and a maritime surveillance aircraft to ensure no such attempt was successful. Kerala too has been put on alert in the wake of reports that these ISIS terrorists could make use of its coastline in their bid to flee Sri Lanka in the aftermath of multiple bombings there on Easter. There have been reports that while security surveillance is being carried out, Indian fishermen too have been asked to watch out for any suspicious activity they may notice. Any vessel which appears suspicious needs to be reported for authorities to carry out security checks. The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) on Tuesday announced the statistics of Maharashtra HSC Result 2019 during a press conference. The Maharashtra HSC Result 2019 is available at the official website mahresult.nic.in. The Maharashtra HSC examination for class 12 students was held from February 21 to March 20 and 14,21,936 students took the board examination. The total pass percentage is 85.88% and the pass percentage of girls is 90.25% and for boys it is 82.40%. The pass percentage for Science stream is 92.04%, for Arts stream it is 76.28 %, and for Commerce stream the pass percentage is 88.28%. The pass percentage in Konkan district is 93.30% and in Pune District it is 87.80%. Last year, the HSC results were declared on May 30 and 88.41 percent students had passed the Class 12 examinations. The pass percentage of girls was 92.36 percent and boys pass percentage was 85.23 percent. The pass percentage for Science stream was 95.85 percent, for Commerce stream it was 89.50 percent and for Arts stream the passing percentage was 78.93 percent. How to check the Maharashtra HSC Result 2019: Step 1: Visit the official website mahresult.nic.in. Step 2: On the homepage of the official site, you will find the latest announcement of the HSC results. Step 3: Click on "HSC Examination Result 2019". Step 4: You will be redirected to a new page, where you need to enter details like your roll number and your mother's first name. Step 5: Click on "view result". Step 6: You will be able to see your scores now. Step 7: Save your results and take a print out for future reference. New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs has asked Indians travelling to Sri Lanka to remain careful even as the island nation is returning to normalcy in the aftermath of multiple explosions here on Easter. Over 250 people had died in a series of bomb explosions at various locations in Sri Lanka on April 21. Several churches and five-star hotels in the capital city of Colombo were especially targeted in the attacks which were eventually claimed by Islamic State. Security was tightened, schools and colleges were shut and access to social media was temporarily suspended. Now, the country is returning to normalcy but tourists are still be advised to exercise caution. MEA in its advisory to Indian citizens in Sri Lanka or visiting in the near future has asked them to remain cautious and vigilant. It has also shared important helpline numbers which are active 24x7. The helpline number of the Indian High Commission in Colombo are +94-772234176, +94-777902082, +94-112422788, +94-112422789. The Indian coastline in Kerala and Lakshadweep islands is on high alert with intelligence reports suggesting ISIS terrorists fleeing Sri Lanka may try to enter Indian territory. In the immediate aftermath of the Easter bombings, several ISIS terrorists in Sri Lanka reportedly attempted to flee the crackdown by planning to find a safe haven in India. Gangtok: Newly-appointed Sikkim Chief Minister PS Golay on Monday announced a five-day working week for state government employees. After taking charge of the office at Tashiling state secretariat, he also held a meeting with top government officials. Talking to reporters after interacting with senior officials, Golay said there will be a five-day working week for the government employees in Sikkim. "We have fulfilled one of our election promises to reduce the working week for government employees from six days earlier to five days," he said. The government employees will get an additional day as holiday which they will use to take care of their health and that of their parents and family members, he said. The chief minister also announced his ministers and MLAs, including himself, will use Scorpio vehicles instead of Fortuner SUVs which were being used by the elected representatives earlier. "For the time being we have no option but to use Fortuner SUVs, but we will use Scorpio vehicles once they are made available to us," Golay said. The SKM supremo had earlier accused the SDF government headed by his predecessor PK Chamling for "misusing public money". Golay said the money saved on using less expensive vehicles like Scorpio will be used for betterment of the people of Sikkim. In the introductory meeting with chief secretary, additional chief secretaries, principal secretaries and heads of department, the chief minister sought their cooperation and asked them to work collectively for the betterment of the state and its people. He urged the entire government machinery to act as one family and support each other at every point of governance. Golay said "good governance" initiated by the previous government will be continued and that the electoral fight against his predecessor Pawan Kumar Chamling was based solely on ideology, adding his government will always seek the latter's advice for running the affairs of the state. He also instructed the chief secretary, director general of police (DGP) and officials concerned to maintain law and order, and take necessary action irrespective of party affiliations of the accused. Earlier in the day, the 51-year-old SKM supremo was sworn in as the sixth Sikkim chief minister along with 11 ministers by the governor at a function at Paljor stadium. The SKM, founded in 2013, won a slender majority in the 32-member Sikkim Legislative Assembly by bagging 17 seats against 15 won by the SDF. The Chamling government was ousted by the SKM after over 24 years rule. Mumbai: The administration of Mumbai's BYL Nair Hospital has suspended the head of the gynaecology department and three other women doctors in connection with Dr Payal Salman Tadvi's suicide case. The three doctors have been booked under the Atrocities Act, the Anti-Ragging Act and the IT Act and Section 306 (abetment to suicide) of the IPC. The three doctors - Hema Ahuja, Bhakti Mehere and Ankita Khandelwal -were earlier absconding while a showcause notice was issued to the head of gynaecology department Yi Ching Ling. Payal Tadvi had committed suicide on May 22 after she allegedly faced casteist slurs. Live TV Her family also alleged that the doctors insulted her for belonging to a scheduled tribe. She was a second-year post-graduate student in obstetrics and gynaecology. The 25-year-old doctor hailed from a Muslim tribal family of Jalgaon. She and her family had in the past complained to the hospital authorities of the alleged ragging, taunting on her tribal status and other forms of harassment by the three senior women doctors. Dr Tadvi's friends had appealed to the authorities to take stringent administrative and penal action against the accused. Amid growing protests by students and tribal organisations, the state women's commission on Monday asked the Dean to submit a report in the case. In a letter to the Dean of the Mumbai civic body-run BYL Nair Hospital Ramesh Bharmal, the Maharashtra State Commission for Women sought to know whether the Anti-ragging Act was effectively implemented in the institution. The report, which also seeks information on "lack of communication" between the administration and students, is to be submitted within eight days, the Commission said. (With agencies inputs) New Delhi: A report prepared by Indian security agencies has revealed that Rohingyas may now be making use of Mizoram's border with Myanmar to enter India. While India's border with Bangladesh is manned by Border Security Force, the border between Mizoram and Myanmar is secured by personnel from Assam Rifles. And despite keeping a close vigil, there have been some instances where Rohingyas have been caught in Indian territory - in Mizoram. It is suspected that while some of them may have crossed over from Bangladesh, Rohingyas are increasingly looking at taking the route from Myanmar and entering Mizoram by bifurcating Bangladesh. Earlier this month, on May 5, a group of 12 Rohingyas were apprehended by the Mizoram Police. The group has eight women and four children. Mizoram Police also suspects that there is human trafficking that may be taking place along the border with Myanmar. There may also be a syndicate that is helping Rohingyas refugees to illegally enter India. The Home Ministry has asked BSF and Assam Rifled to submit their reports in this matter. A Home Ministry official told Zee News that India's border with Bangladesh in Mizoram is completely sealed and that the BSF is keeping a tight vigil here. "Under such circumstances, we are taking an exhaustive report on if illegal trespassing into our territory is still taking place," he said. "It is possible that they are using Mizoram's border with Myanmar to gain entry. It is suspected that syndicates operating in this area are helping Rohingya refugees in not only entering India but taking them to other states in the country if and when they manage to cross the border. Sources say that once these refugees enter India and assimilate themselves with the local population, it becomes extremely difficult to locate them. New Delhi: India, Sri Lanka and Japan have agreed to develop East Container Terminal (ECT) in Colombo's South Port. The three countries signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) in Colombo with India being represented by its High Commissioner - Taranjit Singh Sandhu. A release from the Sri Lankan Port Authority (SLPA) said, "The three governments will work out details based on the MOC at joint working group meetings and advance their cooperation towards early commencement of work and operation of the ECT." While SLPA retains 100% ownership of East Container Terminal (ECT), the Terminal Operations Company (TOC) conducting all East Container Terminal operations is jointly owned. Sri Lanka will have a 51% stake of the Terminal Operations Company, the joint venture partners will hold a 49% stake. The release of the Port Authority said, " The 51% stake is also one of the best in SLPA joint ownership endeavours" with "SLPA's majority ownership in the new TOC represents a significant step in prioritizing National Interests." Around 70% of Colombo Port's trans-shipment business is India-related. Tuesday's development comes even as China has been trying to increase its influence in South Asia especially with the development of ports like Gwadar in Pakistan and Hambantota port in Sri Lanka. In 2017, unable to pay its debts, Sri Lanka handed over Hambantota to China for a 99 year period lease. Hyderabad: The opposition Congress and BJP in Telangana were engaged in a war of words Tuesday over their strength in the state in the wake of impressive gains made by the two parties in the Lok Sabha polls. It began with state Congress president N Uttam Kumar Reddy claiming that BJP getting a few seats in Telangana in the Lok Sabha polls was just a fluke. Referring to comments of BJP leaders that their party would emerge as the alternative to the Telangana Rashtra Samithi, he said it is only the Congress which would defeat the TRS and be the alternative to the ruling party. "It is Congress which will defeat TRS and dislodge the TRS government in Telangana. BJP getting some seats was just a fluke. To say that BJP is strengthened in Telangana, it is a lie. We don't think it would be strengthened in future also," Uttam Kumar Reddy told reporters here. The BJP pulled off a surprise in the Lok Sabha polls, winning four of the 17 seats in Telangana. The Congress secured three, while TRS bagged nine. Emboldened by the win, BJP declared that it would emerge as the alternative to the ruling TRS in the state. "It is only Congress which would defeat TRS one day and be an alternative to TRS. Voters voted for BJP in certain constituencies as its candidates were considered strong in public perception and as they wanted to defeat TRS at any cost," Uttam Kumar Reddy said. Live TV Secularism is deeply rooted in the psyche of people of Telangana and BJP would never have any future in the state, he said. Countering Uttam Kumar Reddy, his BJP counterpart K Laxman said the Congress leader was only bragging about his party's strength as the Congress is on the decline all over the country. Uttam Kumar Reddy should first look at how many MLAs his party is left with, Laxman said. He was referring to 11 of the 19 Congress MLAs, who won in the assembly elections in December last, announcing their decision to quit the party and join the ruling TRS. The Congress was voted to be the main opposition in the Assembly polls but its MLAs chose to leave the party for selfish reasons, he claimed. "Congress is like a rudderless ship," Laxman said, referring to Congress president Rahul Gandhi's insistence on stepping down from his post following the party's debacle in the Lok Sabha election. New Delhi: Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee on Tuesday issued a statement in which it appealed to Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to step down as party chief. Taking full responsibility for Congress' shambolic showing in Lok Sabha election 2019, Rahul had offered to resign as party president. He has since been asked to reconsider his decision by several party leaders. Joining in the chorus, DPCC's statement too asked Rahul to change his mind. Congress, much like in every other state and union territory, failed miserably in Delhi and lost in all seven parliamentary constituencies which were swept by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The only small solace for Congress was that in each of the seven constituencies - barring South Delhi, it managed to thwart Aam Aadmi Party and claim the second spot. A five-member panel has been formed under former CM Sheila Dikshit to assess the reason for Congress' defeat in Delhi. While die-hard supporters of the party feel Congress can count its blessings in Delhi and mount a challenge to BJP in the Assembly election here in 2020, the party remains in a tattered state with a bleak national prospect moving forward. Kolkata: Bharatiya Janta Party leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu Roy is likely to join the BJP on Tuesday, along with three Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLAs and at least 15 other councillors, sources said. Subhrangshu, a TMC legislator from Bijpur, was suspended from the party for six years for his anti-party comments. He arrived in Delhi on Monday, along with the others and his father Mukul Roy. "Today I have no qualms in accepting that I have lost to my father. He is a real Chanakya of Bengal politics. Our party has lost and people voted against us. We should accept it," Subhrangshu said after being expelled from TMC. Meanwhile, speaking to news agency ANI, Ruby Chatterjee, a TMC councillor from Garifa, West Bengal, said, "20 councillors are here in Delhi. We are not upset with Mamata ji but the recent victory of BJP in Bengal has influenced us to join the party. People are liking BJP as they are working for them." Ruby Chatterjee, TMC councillor from Garifa (West Bengal), ward no 6 says, "20 councillors are here in Delhi. We are not upset with Mamata ji but the recent victory of BJP in Bengal has influenced us to join the party. People are liking BJP as they are working for them." pic.twitter.com/qpYCCmS4HF ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 In the recently-concluded Lok Sabha election, TMC bagged 22 out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats at stake in the state while BJP improved its tally and secured 18 seats. The Congress managed to win just two seats, while the Left parties drew a blank. After TMC's dismal performance in the election, when TMC chief Mamata Banerjee offered to quit as the West Bengal chief minister, Mukul Roy described her step as 'a drama to stay in the news.' Live TV "Mamata Banerjee offering to quit is nothing but a drama. She said all these only to stay in the news headlines. To whom did she submit her resignation? She herself is the party (TMC). Has anybody seen her resignation papers? I think she submitted the resignation to herself and then rejected it on her own," the BJP leader said. "She (Banerjee) is more keen on relishing the powers of chief minister and will never resign unless the people of West Bengal use their democratic rights to throw her out," Roy, an ex-TMC member, added. Mukul, once considered to be the second-in-command of the TMC, joined the BJP in November 2017 after a fallout with Mamata. (With agencies inputs) NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met former president and veteran Congress leader Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday to seek his blessings after winning the Lok Sabha election with a historic mandate. Modi will be taking oath as the prime minister for the second time on Thursday. Modi hailed the former president and called him a statesman. "Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation. Sought his blessings during our meeting today," Modi tweeted, posting pictures with Mukherjee. In the photos, the former president can be seen congratulating Modi by giving him sweets. Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation. Sought his blessings during our meeting today. pic.twitter.com/dxFj6NPNd5 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2019 Pranab wished Modi for a successful second term as the Prime Minister. "Thank you for your kind words & gesture PM Shri @narendramodi. It was indeed a pleasure meeting you. As you proceed, stronger into the second innings, my good wishes are with you in achieving your vision of "Sabka Saath Sabka vikas aur sabka vishwas," he tweeted. Thank you for your kind words & gesture PM Shri @narendramodi. It was indeed a pleasure meeting you. As you proceed, stronger into the second innings, my good wishes are with you in achieving your vision of " , ".#CitizenMukherjee https://t.co/vJsD371KX7 Pranab Mukherjee (@CitiznMukherjee) May 28, 2019 Even after the election results were announced on 23 May which in which the BJP bagged 303 seats while the NDA won 354 seats in the Lok Sabha, Pranab had taken to Twitter to wish the PM-elect. "Congratulations PM Shri @narendramodi on this spectacular victory. You carry the hopes & aspirations of 1.3 billion people of India. May God give you strength on your way ahead," he had tweeted. Modi was administered the oath of office in 2014 by Mukherjee who was the president then. The swearing-in ceremony was held at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan where around 2,000 people including foreign dignitaries were in attendance. Live TV Mukherjee had been awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, on the recommendation of the Modi-led government in January. Since Modi led the Bharatiya Janata Party to a rousing victory, he has been meeting veteran leaders to seek their blessings. He has earlier met senior BJP leaders LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi too. Kathmandu: Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will attend the swearing-in ceremony of his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, scheduled to be held on May 30 in New Delhi, Nepal`s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release on Tuesday. "At the invitation of Prime Minister of India HE Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister Rt Hon Mr K P Sharma Oli is paying an official visit to India to attend the former`s swearing-in ceremony to be held on May 30, 2019 in New Delhi. The Rt Hon. Prime Minister will leave Kathmandu for New Delhi on May 30, 2019," the statement read. Oli will be accompanied by his wife and other high-ranking government officials. The two leaders will be holding bilateral talks on May 31. Like SAARC leaders last time, heads of government from neighbouring BIMSTEC countries have been invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Modi for his second term. The decision to invite the leaders from the grouping is in line with the government`s `Neighbourhood First` policy, according to the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. Live TV Apart from BIMSTEC leaders, invitations have also been extended to Kyrgyzstan`s President Sooronbay Jeenbekov, the current Chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and the Prime Minister of Mauritius Pravind Jugnauth, who was the Chief Guest at this year`s Pravasi Bhartiya Divas. In 2014, when Modi won his first term, all the SAARC leaders, including the then Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attended the swearing-in. Member countries of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) include Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand besides India. Mumbai: The Congress in Maharashtra Tuesday ruled out any pre-poll alliance with the Vanchit Bahujan Agadhi (VBA) or the Raj Thackeray-led MNS for the upcoming assembly elections in the state. After the ruling BJP and Shiv Sena's impressive showing in the Lok Sabha polls in Maharashtra, opposition leaders, including those from the Congress-NCP combine, held a meeting here to discuss their strategy for the assembly polls scheduled later this year. The Congress-NCP combine received a severe drubbing in Maharashtra in the recent general elections, bagging just five of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in the state. State Congress president Ashok Chavan along with party leader Vijay Waddetiwar, NCP leaders Ajit Pawar, Jayant Patil, Chhagan Bhujbal, Samajwadi Party's Abu Asim Azmi, PWP leaders Ganpatrao Deshmukh and Jayant Patil, Jogendra Kawade of the People's Republican Party (PRP), CPI and CPM leaders from Maharashtra met at the residence of Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council Dhananjay Munde. Live TV State Congress spokesman Ratnakar Mahajan said the meeting discussed the opposition's strategy for the assembly polls scheduled later this year. "Assembly elections will be a difficult task but we have fight it with all might," he maintained. Mahajan ruled out any truck with the Prakash Ambedkar- led VBA or Raj Thackeray's MNS for the assembly polls. "We maintain that VBA is the B team of the BJP and the MNS has no influence over voters," he said. The VBA, a social coalition of Dalits and Muslims, bagged 14.6 per cent votes in Maharashtra in the just held Lok Sabha polls and appears to have played a key role in the defeat of Congress-NCP candidates in eight to 10 seats. MNS chief Raj Thackeray, whose party did not contest the Lok Sabha polls, had vigorously campaigned against the BJP in the state. Thackeray had addressed nearly a dozen well-attended election rallies but failed to dent the BJP's poll prospects. Meanwhile, NCP president Sharad Pawar has convened a meeting of his party's leaders and lawmakers on June 1 to take stock of the political situation after the Lok Sabha polls, state NCP spokesman Nawab Malik said here Tuesday. The NCP bagged four Lok Sabha seats and the Congress just one. An independent candidate supported by the Sharad Pawar-led party also won, while one seat went to the VBA. The ruling BJP-Sena alliance bagged an impressive 41 seats. New Delhi: Zero tolerance towards terrorism and checking illegal immigration will be the focus areas of the second Modi government, which may also take some tough actions like implementing the NRC across the country and annulling Article 35A in Jammu and Kashmir. The BJP-led NDA has received a landslide mandate in the just-concluded Lok Sabha elections with the saffron party winning 303 of the 542 seats that went to polls this time. Narendra Modi is set to assume the charge as prime minister for a second time on Thursday. The "decisive leadership" of Modi has "fundamentally altered" the national security paradigm of India in the last five years and his government will look at a zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism in the next five years, according to the BJP manifesto 'Sankalp Patra', released before the general elections. "Our security doctrine will be guided by our national security interest only. This is exemplified by the surgical strikes and the air strikes carried out recently. "We will firmly continue our policy of 'Zero Tolerance' against terrorism and extremism and will continue to follow our policy of giving a free hand to our security forces in combating terrorism," it said. The party is "committed to annulling Article 35A" of the Constitution of India as the provision is "discriminatory against non-permanent residents and women of Jammu and Kashmir", according to the BJP manifesto. The article provides special rights and privileges to the natives of Jammu and Kashmir. "We believe that Article 35A is an obstacle in the development of the state. We will take all steps to ensure a safe and peaceful environment for all residents of the state," it said. "We will make all efforts to ensure the safe return of Kashmiri Pandits and we will provide financial assistance for the resettlement of refugees from West Pakistan, Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) and Chhamb," the BJP manifesto said. Article 35A was incorporated in the Constitution in 1954 through a presidential order on recommendations of the then Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru's cabinet. This provision gives permanent residents of the state special rights and privileges in government jobs, scholarships, aids and acquisition of property. Live TV No non-state subject can buy land or settle permanently in Jammu and Kashmir due to the article. The BJP also reiterated its position since the time of the Jan Sangh to the abrogation of Article 370, which allows a separate flag and constitution for the state. Referring to illegal immigration from neighbouring countries, the BJP manifesto said there has been a huge change in the cultural and linguistic identity of some areas due to illegal immigration, resulting in an adverse impact on the local people's livelihood and employment. "We will expeditiously complete the National Register of Citizens (NRC) process in these areas on priority. In the future, we will implement the NRC in a phased manner in other parts of the country," it said. Currently, the NRC is being updated in Assam. When the draft NRC was published on July 30, 2018, there was a huge controversy over the exclusion of 40.7 lakh people from it. The draft NRC included the names of 2.9 crore people out of the total 3.29 crore applications. The final NRC is expected to be published on July 31, 2019. The Supreme Court-monitored NRC exercise, aimed at identifying illegal immigrants in the state that borders Bangladesh, was carried out only in Assam, which faced an influx of people from Bangladesh since the early 20th century. Karachi: Pakistan has tried to downplay India's decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modi's swearing-in on Thursday, saying the Indian Prime Minister's "internal politics" does not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a member of the regional grouping. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Pakistan Prime Minister Khan to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. "His (Prime Minister Modi's) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon)," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. "India's internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation," he said. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in held on May 26 in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Khan after he won the general election last year and wrote a letter as well. "Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Mr Modi as a goodwill gesture," the Pakistani foreign minister said. "Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region... The only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tension," Qureshi said. Tensions had flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in an aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India. New Delhi: Rajasthan CM and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot said on Tuesday that his party is united under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi and that everyone wants him to continue to be in the lead. Rahul Gandhi had offered to resign from the post of party president after Congress' shambolic performance in Lok Sabha election 2019. The party won just 52 seats. And while the party is clearly in crisis, party leaders are urging Rahul to re-think on his decision to step down. "Our performance in the election is definitely a cause of worry but the party is united in wanting Rahul Gandhi to lead us. The party is assessing the reasons for our defeat but we are strong and will continue to work for the people," he said. Gehlot also trained his guns at the Bharatiya Janata Party which received a massive mandate and crossed the 300-seat mark with absolute ease. "There will be a move to distract people from real issues, issues that concern them. This should not happen," he said. "Therefore it is very important for Rahul Gandhi to remain Congress president so that the party can work for the welfare of the people and progress of the country." Gehlot's view has been echoed by several Congress leaders as well as parties under the United Progressive Alliance. From Lalu Prasad Yadav to MK Stalin, many have joined the chorus in asking Rahul to not step down. Meanwhile, a number of state Congress chiefs have tendered their respective resignations. New Delhi: They may have fought a bitter - often deplorable - electoral campaign against each other over the past several months but that has hardly stopped PM Narendra Modi from inviting Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee to his oath-taking ceremony this Thursday. And she has agreed to attend. PM Modi and Mamata were engaged in an intense tussle before, during and even after the conclusion of Lok Sabha election 2019. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) locked horns with TMC in West Bengal and after poll-related violence in every phase of voting, managed to win a record 18 seats in the state. Now, a number of TMC MLAs have reportedly expressed a strong desire to join BJP with Subhranshu Roy and over 50 TMC councillors crossing over on Tuesday. Putting political rivalry and differences aside, PM Modi has extended an invitation to Mamata to attend the oath-taking ceremony which will see several national and international dignitaries in attendance. Previously, PM Modi had said that he has no personal enmity against any of his political rival and that Mamata even sends him sweets. To this, Mamata had retorted that she would send him sweets made of soil and add pebbles to them. Accusing the central government of using democratic institutions for its own benefit, Mamata had also said that she feels like giving PM Modi the slap of democracy. Mamata's brazen campaign, however, could not halt the BJP juggernaut in West Bengal, a state where it had no presence before Lok Sabha election 2014. That year, the party won two seats before an astronomical rise this year. New Delhi: With Congress President Rahul Gandhi insisting that his offer of resignation be accepted in the wake of party's debacle in Lok Sabha elections, the Congress Working Committee is likely to meet again in the next four days to take stock of the situation and discuss the leadership issue. The Congress has been in a crisis over Rahul Gandhi`s offer to step down with the CWC expected to discuss his possible successor if he does not relent from his stance of stepping down. The move to convene the CWC comes in the wake of a string of resignations by Congress state party chiefs who took moral responsibility of the party`s performance in the Lok Sabha polls. It is learnt that Rahul Gandhi has conveyed that he has not changed his mind to quit. UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi are also learnt to have come to terms with his view that there should be a change of guard though they have been of the view that the blame for defeat cannot be put on one person. Sources said the CWC, the party`s top decision-making body, is also likely to look at the structural reforms needed by the party. There is also a view in the Congress that Gandhi is sending a clear message to the old guard by holding out because there should be full freedom in decision-making. Sources said Rahul Gandhi did not give an appointment to Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot in an apparent snub to him. The Congress President was not keen on Gehlot seeking ticket for his son. Gandhi is also learnt to have declined other appointments including newly-elected MPs who wanted to see him. Various suggestions are floating about how to get over the present crisis and rejuvenate the party. There was a talk in the party circles about a presidium system, a presidium is a committee or a council that collectively administers alongside an individual president or in place of him and makes important decisions. During the day, Rahul Gandhi met party treasurer Ahmed Patel and general secretary K. C. Venugopal who are learnt too have persuaded him not to press for his exit from the post. However, Patel later said that he had gone to meet Gandhi for routine administrative work. "I had sought time before the CWC to meet the Congress President to discuss routine administrative work. The meeting today was in that context. All other speculation is incorrect and baseless," Patel said in a tweet. Gandhi had offered to resign taking moral responsibility for the party`s defeat but the Congress Working Committee at its meeting on Saturday unanimously rejected the offer. Meanwhile, three more state party chiefs have tendered their resignations, taking the total number to six. Congress party chiefs of Jharkhand, Assam and Punjab have also resigned in addition to those from Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Odisha. Karnataka Pradesh Campaign Committee chairman H.K. Patil has also resigned. Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jhakar, who was the sitting MP from Gurdaspur, sent his resignation to Congress President Rahul Gandhi taking moral responsibility for losing to actor Sunny Deol from the seat. The Congress has generally done well in Punjab winning eight of 13 seats. Jharkhand Congress chief Ajoy Kumar has also tendered his resignation. The party won only one seat in the state where it had an alliance with the JMM, RJD and other parties. While the party won Singhbhum seat, it lost Khunti by only 1,445 votes and Lohardaga by 10,363 votes. The party`s Assam unit chief Ripun Bora also wrote to Gandhi taking moral responsibility for the party not being able to increase its tally from its previous tally of three seats. He has said in his letter that Gandhi may choose to replace him. Maharashtra unit chief Ashok Chavan, Uttar Pradesh unit chief Raj Babbar, and Odisha Congress chief Niranjan Patnaik have already sent their resignations. Yogendra Misra, the district Congress chief in Amethi in Uttar Pradesh has also sent his resignation, owning moral responsibility for Rahul Gandhi`s defeat from Amethi. New Delhi: Rahul Gandhi is likely to remain Congress president, sources said on Tuesday. The decision comes after top Congress leaders including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Ahmed Patel met at Rahul's residence. It is also being said that no meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) has been planned as of yet. Rahul had offered to resign from the post of Congress president in the wake of party's debacle in Lok Sabha election 2019. However, his resignation was unanimously rejected by the party leaders. The Congress party had met on Saturday. Sources had said that despite much persuasion, he was adamant on resigning from the post and said that he will continue to strengthen the party and, to do so, the post is not required. Live TV The party, on Monday, issued a statement and said that no speculations must be made regarding the meeting. "CWC held a collective deliberation on the performance of the party, the challenges before it as also the way ahead, instead of casting aspersions on the role or conduct of any specific individual," it read. "Congress party expects everyone including media to respect the sanctity of a closed-door meeting of the CWC. Various conjectures, speculations, insinuations, assumptions, gossip and rumour mongering in a section of the media is uncalled for and unwarranted," the statement added. Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth on Tuesday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that he is as charismatic as Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi. Rajinikanth said that the victory of BJP-led NDA in the recently concluded Lok Sabha poll is actually a victory of PM Modi. Calling PM Modi a charismatic leader, Rajinikanth said that after Jawahar Lal Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi, Modi is a charismatic leader of India. Rajinikanth also confirmed that he will attend the swearing-in ceremony of PM Modi on Thursday in New Delhi. "This victory is a victory for Modi. He is a charismatic leader. In India after JL Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi he is now a charismatic leader. I will be going for the swearing in ceremony of Narendra Modi ji," Rajinikanth told ANI. Actor turned politician Rajinikanth in Chennai, Tamil Nadu: This victory is a victory for Modi. He is a charismatic leader. In India after JL Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi he is now a charismatic leader. I will be going for the swearing in ceremony of Narendra Modi ji. pic.twitter.com/pLp0GI5EP8 ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 Rajinikanth also advised Congress president Rahul Gandhi to not resign and try to make Opposition strong. He (Rahul Gandhi) should not resign. He should prove he can do it. In democracy the opposition should also be strong, said Rajinikanth. Actor turned politician Rajinikanth in Chennai, Tamil Nadu: He (Rahul Gandhi) should not resign. He should prove he can do it. In democracy the opposition should also be strong. https://t.co/Z3H4Tf25l3 ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2019 It may be recalled that in 2017 Rajinikanth had announced his decision to join politics but in February this year he announced that he would not contest the Lok Sabha election. The South superstar also barred anyone from using his name of photo for campaigning. Meanwhile, sources said that Rahul Gandhi would remain Congress president. The decision comes after top Congress leaders including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Ahmed Patel met at Rahul's residence. Sources also added that no meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) has been planned as of yet. Rahul had offered to step down as president of Congress after the party's humiliating defeat in Lok Sabha election 2019. However, his resignation was unanimously rejected by the party leaders. New Delhi: Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has said that he is ready to take the responsibility of the Leader of the Congress party in the Lok Sabha if party offers him the job. "If offered, I am ready to be the Congress Lok Sabha leader," Tharoor, elected for a third consecutive term as MP from Thiruvananthapuram, told Tiranga TV on Monday. He accepted the Congress' main election theme -- `NYAY` -- was not properly communicated among the electorate and criticized Congress President Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi`s "soft Hindutva" plank. He, however, insisted that Rahul Gandhi should continue as the Congress President. "The party could consider appointing a series of regional working presidents to assist him," the former Union Minister said. He said the Congress and other opposition parties must challenge the belief that the Hindutva concept of India, as essentially a Hindu country, has triumphed over the Nehruvian view of secularism that India is a country of multiple religions, castes, cultures and identities. Tharoor, a former UN Under-Secretary General, has been representing Thiruvananthapuram since 2009. In 2014, he won by a narrow margin of 15,000-odd votes against BJP veteran O. Rajagopal. In 2019, he defeated Kummanam Rajasekharan of the BJP by 99,989 votes. The Congress won 52 seats in the Lok Sabha polls. It remains the main opposition party in the house. However, like in the 16th Lok Sabha, the Congress has not qualified to have a Leader of Opposition in the 17th Lok Sabha. MUMBAI: Shiv Sena on Monday took a dig at the Congress for its disastrous performance in the recently concluded Lok Sabha election and said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi`s personality 'does not attract people.' Mocking the Congress in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', Shiv Sena said that the Congress faced a more shameful defeat this time than 2014 Lok Sabha election. "The Congress party faced a more shameful defeat than 2014 this time, Rahul Gandhi`s personality does not attract people and his speeches are not impressive. Is there anything that can inspire a person or the country from whatever Rahul Gandhi says?" it asked. The 'Saamana' editorial also claimed that Congress is visionless right now and though the grand old party has leaders it has not enough party workers. Shiv Sena also raised question over Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's appointment as the party`s general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, saying that in 2014 the party had won two seats in 2014 but this time the party won just one seat. "Congress won two seats in Uttar Pradesh in 2014, but only managed one in 2019," Shiv Sena stated. Congress faced humiliating defeats in Lok Sabha election 2019 and managed to win just 52 seats. The party performed very poorly in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh where it had won assembly elections just months ago. In Rajasthan, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav contested from Jodhpur and was defeated by around 2.70 lakh votes, while Kamal Nath's son Nakul and Chidambaram's son Karti conetsted and won from Chhindwara and Sivaganaga respectively. Souces said that Rahul had also offered to step down as the party president during the CWC meet on Saturday but Congress leaders had to implore for him to reconsider his decision. It is to be noted that Congress Working Commitee (CWC) is the top decision-making body of the Congress. Chennai: Stalin on Tuesday called Rahul Gandhi and over his telephonic conversation with him, asked the Congress chief to not step down from his post. DMK, in alliance with Congress under the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), won 23 seats in Tamil Nadu on its own merit in the recently concluded Lok Sabha election 2019. Congress on its own, however, failed miserably in almost every state except Punjab. As a result of the massive drubbing, Rahul Gandhi has offered to resign from his post as party chief. Stalin, however, is not too keen on the decision and is learnt to have told Rahul to continue to lead his party. In response, Rahul congratulated Stalin on DMK's strong showing in Tamil Nadu. Stalin was also congratulated by Sonia Gandhi, chairperson of UPA. These congratulatory messages aside, Congress has very little to be cheerful about. Several state unit chiefs of Congress have sent their resignations to Rahul at a time when he himself has taken moral responsibility for the defeat in the Lok Sabha election. In fact, Rahul could have lost out on being a Member of Parliament (MP) had he not won from the Wayanad seat in Kerala. This is because he lost his family bastion of Amethi to Bharatiya Janata Party's Smriti Irani. JAIPUR: After Congress president Rahul Gandhi rebuked Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for putting the interests of party behind in order to promote his son, several ministers and MLAs in the state have demanded that the party high command must take action over party's poor performance in Lok Sabha poll. The ministers and MLAs also said that accountability must be fixed and those responsible for party's disastrous performance must face action. According to sources, during the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on Saturday, Rahul blamed Gehlot and some other Congress leaders for showing interest in only building the political career of their sons and not doing anything substantial for the party. Rahul called out Gehlot for camping in Jodhpur in order to campaign for his son Vaibhav. Rahul Gandhi said in the CWC meeting that Gehlot was busy campaigning only for his son in Jodhpur and did not pay attention to campaigning in other parts of the state. Live TV Asked about remarks made by the Congress president at the CWC meet, Gehlot told PTI that they were "quoted out of context". He, however, stressed that Rahul Gandhi is the president of the party and he can say anything he deem fit in party interest. The Rajasthan chief minister added that Rahul Gandhi has the authority to make any changes he wants to initiate in the party. "For any leader in the country, priority should not be any position and the only priority should be how to revive and strengthen the Congress party and and how they can contribute," he was quoted as saying by PTI. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Transport Minister Pratap Singh Khachariyawas said that Rahul Gandhi will definitely fix the accountability for party's poor show in the state. Khachariyawas' cabinet colleague, Bhanwarlal Meghwal, also echoed similar feelings and said that accountability be for the defeat. "Whatever Rahul Gandhi said is right...Action should be taken against those people who are responsible for this defeat so that a message goes to the workers. The Congress workers are also very angry," he said. The Congress had failed to win even a single seat out of 25 seats at stake in Rajasthan. The result is very surprising because the Congress came to power in the state last year and the party had ample time to earn the trust of voters. New Delhi: Bollywood actor Salman Khan is busy promoting his upcoming film Bharat with co-star Katrina Kaif. During one of the promotional events, the actor was asked to suggest an alternative career for Katrina Kaif. After mulling over the question for a while, Salman came up with an answer that might not go down well with the feminists across the globe. In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, the actor was asked to suggest an alternative career for Katrina. To which he said, She should be married and produce children. We don't know prompted him to come up with an answer like that but Kat was surely not impressed with the jibe. Katrina cut him short and explained that the question is about a profession like a doctor, engineer but Salman refused to change his stance. He went on to add that kids and marriage also require a lot of effort. Recently, on Arbaaz Khan's talk show Katrina was asked about her marriage plans. To which she had said, "No clue. I am taking one day at a time. Life is unpredictable. We dont know what happens. However, the actress added that she believes in the institution of marriage. On the work front, Salman and Katrina will be next seen in Ali Abbas Zafar's Bharat, which will hit the screens on June 5, 2019. New Delhi: Kangana Ranaut seems to be in complete awe of her 'like-minded' B-town colleague Anupam Kher. The 'Queen' actor's latest Instagram posts are proof of how happy she was to meet the veteran actor. Sharing three photos of the meeting, Kangana's official handle wrote, "It's a pleasure to meet like-minded people who understand the art and are able to match the wavelength. Meeting Anupam Kher ji is the same feeling, always makes my day!" The two also celebrated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's victory in the 17th Lok Sabha elections. Kangana, who also made headlines with her marvellous looks at the 72nd Cannes Film Festival, celebrated the PM's landslide win with her family in an appetizing way as the actor prepared chai and pakoras. Anupam Kher, whose wife Kirron won the Chandigarh parliamentary seat, also praised the PM on Twitter. "In the Festival of democracy, the idea of real India has won today. The outcome of #Election2019 has proved that country is moving in the right direction. It is also clearly the end of dynastic rule. Congratulations Prime Minister @narendramodi ji for for your grand victory," he had tweeted. Kangana Ranaut is awaiting the release of her film 'Mental Hai Kya' opposite Rajkummar Rao. The film will be in theatres on July 26. Kher, on the other hand, had batted for the abrogation of Article 370. "Removal of Article 370 will solve all issues of Kashmir," he had said. The article grants special autonomous status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi: Actor-turned-politicians Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan, who were elected as Trinamool Congress MPs from West Bengal, on Tuesday posted pictures of their first visit to Parliament. However, their choice of western wear for their first visit to Parliament after their victory in the Lok Sabha election, apparently irked a section of social media users who questioned their dressing sense. The two actresses contested the election as Trinamool Congress representatives and won by good margins. Mimi, who contested from Jadavpur, shared a photo on social media in which she is posing in front of Parliament, wearing a white shirt and a pair of denim. Nusrat, the Trinamool Congress MP from Basirhat, opted for a wine-coloured fitted ensemble -- a pair of pants with a peplum zipped top -- for her visit to Parliament. The ensembles of these two actor-turned-politicians were far different from the saris and salwar suits that a lot of women politicians choose to wear for their visit to Parliament. One social media user commented: "Parliament is not a photo studio", while another user slammed Mimi saying "she is not suitable for the position". "Seriously? This is how you pose in front of the parliament? This is not some film shooting.. Get real, girl!," read another post "U actually don't know how to dress up.I hope it's not ur shooting place or ur holiday destination.Its an official purpose.altym chablamo ta sab jaygay chole na.self respect ta dhore rakhte jante hoy," one user posted. Another comment read: "You should wear some Indian attire in Parliament. You are going for people not for movie promotions. And keep some respect towards your Bengali society." "Wear sari in Parliament. You look like a tourist there," one netizen wrote on Nusrat`s image, highlighting the stereotypes attached to women politicians in India. "Ur photography shows that you are not suitable for that place.. Bcoz it s d place to act for the people not to show ur pic into social site.." read a post. This is not the first time that a woman politician was trolled by the netizens for her choice of clothes. Earlier this year, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's change of display picture on Twitter -- from a sari-clad look to one in a pair of jeans -- got the social media world talking. New year is about to start. PM Modi did the last episode of the year 2021 live. In which he appealed to the countrymen to take a pledge to do something new in the new year. From the summer of 2014 to March 2015, US Navy pilots had reported about seeing strange objects in the sky, one of them like a spinning top moving against the wind, which appeared almost daily over the East Coast, a media reports said. In this period, the pilots reported to their superiors that the objects had no visible engine or infrared exhaust plumes, but that they could reach 30,000 feet and hypersonic speeds, The New York Times said in the report published on Sunday. "These things would be out there all day," Lt. Ryan Graves, an F/A-18 Super Hornet pilot who has been with the Navy for 10 years, and who reported his sightings to the Pentagon and Congress, told the newspaper. "Keeping an aircraft in the air requires a significant amount of energy. With the speeds we observed, 12 hours in the air is 11 hours longer than we'd expect." In late 2014, a Super Hornet pilot had a near collision with one of the objects, and an official mishap report was filed. Some of the incidents were videotaped, including one taken by a plane's camera in early 2015 that shows an object zooming over the ocean waves. Lieutenant Graves and four other Navy pilots, told The New York Times that they saw the objects in 2014 and 2015 in training manoeuvers from Virginia to Florida of the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt. The objects have gotten the attention of the Navy, which earlier this year sent out new classified guidance for how to report what the military calls unexplained aerial phenomena or unidentified flying objects. The sightings were reported to the Pentagon's little-known Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, which analyzed the radar data, video footage and accounts provided by senior officers from the Roosevelt. Luis Elizondo, a military intelligence official who ran the programme until he resigned in 2017, called the sightings "a striking series of incidents". LONDON: British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said it would be "political suicide" to pursue a no-deal Brexit through a general election, adding he would look for more time to secure a new Brexit deal if he replaced Prime Minister Theresa May. Hunt pitched himself against other leading candidates to replace May, saying that a promise to leave the European Union by a specific date with or without a deal would be blocked by lawmakers who oppose no-deal and trigger a national election. "Trying to deliver no deal through a general election is not a solution; it is political suicide," Hunt wrote in Tuesday`s Daily Telegraph. "A different deal is, therefore, the only solution and what I will pursue if I am leader." Hunt is among ten Conservative lawmakers who have so far put themselves forward to replace May as party leader and prime minister. Frontrunner Boris Johnson has said that Britain should leave "deal or no-deal" on October 31, while Kit Malthouse, an outsider for the role, said no-deal was not his preferred outcome but Britain should be prepared for it. Although Hunt voted to remain in the European Union in the 2016 Brexit referendum, he says he now believes in Brexit. "I have always believed that no deal is better than no Brexit, but parliament has passed laws to stop a government willingly walking into no deal," he said. Instead of pursuing no-deal, Hunt said he would look for a different deal to the agreement negotiated by May, which failed to get approval three times from British lawmakers. He said that he would seek to take Britain out of the customs union while "respecting legitimate concerns" around the Irish border. May`s deal foundered on the controversial Irish border "backstop" which could see the province linked indefinitely to the bloc, angering May`s Unionist allies in Northern Ireland and Brexit supporters who want a decisive split from the EU. Hunt said that the EU did not want Brexit hanging over them and so could be open to renegotiation of the backstop. "The last thing they want is to make a concession to what they see as Britains populist movement," Hunt said of the EU. "But that does not rule out a reasonable and statesmanlike request to change the backstop for a different set of guarantees on the Irish border." New Delhi: The Indian High Commission in Islamabad has extended an invite to Pakistani President Arif Alvi, Prime Minister Imran Khan and other top dignitaries for an iftar party on June 1. The invite is sent every year during Ramzan by the Indian High Commission. Usually, the Prime Minister of Pakistan does not attend the iftar party even as other senior government officials and ministers do make it a point to be present. Ties between India and Pakistan plummeted after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack and the air strikes by the Indian Air Force on February 26 on Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camps. On Sunday, Pakistani PM Imran Khan called up Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and congratulated him on for his thumping victory in the Lok Sabha election 2019. During the conversation, PM Modi "stressed on creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism which is essential for fostering cooperation for peace, progress and prosperity in our region." Sunday's call was the first conversation between the two leaders after the Pulwama attack in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel had died. It may be mentioned that till now, no invite has also been sent to Pakistani PM Imran Khan for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi on May 30. Both the prime ministers will, however, meet at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in June. LONDON: Iran sees no prospect of negotiations with the United States, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, a day after U.S. President Donald Trump said a deal with Tehran on its nuclear programme was possible. Washington withdrew last year from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Tehran, and is ratcheting up sanctions in efforts to strangle Iran`s economy by ending its international sales of crude oil. Trump said on Monday: "I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal, and I think that`s very smart of them, and I think that`s a possibility to happen." Asked about Trump`s comments in a news conference in Tehran, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi was quoted as saying by the semi-official Fars news agency: "We currently see no prospect of negotiations with America. Iran pays no attention to words; What matters to us is a change of approach and behaviour." Trump also said that United States was not looking for regime change in Iran, adding that "we are looking for no nuclear weapons." Iranian Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri said on Tuesday the country was not allowed to pursue the development of nuclear weapon as this was banned by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran`s highest authority. Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States since Washington deployed a carrier strike group and bombers and announced plans to deploy 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict. Nacogdoches, TX (75965) Today Partly to mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 64F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Partly to mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. By Express News Service MUMBAI: The Anil Ambani groups Reliance Capital and Reliance Land are to sell their stake in the groups FM radio venture Big 92.7 FM to Music Broadcast Ltd., part of Jagran Prakashan group, Reliance Capital said in a press release on Monday. The deal, subject to regulatory approvals, would bring down Reliance Capitals debt by around Rs 1,200 crore, it said. Reliance Capital and Reliance Land would sell their entire stake in Reliance Broadcast Network Limited, operating under the brand name Big FM Radio Network, to Music Broadcast Limited. As per the deal structure, Music Broadcast will buy a 24 per cent stake in Reliance Broadcast by way of preferential allotment for Rs 202 crore initially, and later buy the Reliance Capital and Reliance Land stakes at an enterprise value of Rs 1,050 crore once regulatory approvals are in place. In addition to the stake sale proceeds, Reliance Capital will also get Rs 150 crore from the sale of other assets of Reliance Broadcast which is not part of the current transaction, the press release said. Amit Bapna, CFO, Reliance Capital said, We are delighted to announce the asset monetization transaction with Music Broadcast Limited, a leading FM Radio broadcaster. This transaction is part of our overall strategy to reduce exposure in non-core businesses and will reduce Reliance Capitals debt by an estimated Rs 1,200 crore. Arshad Khan By Express News Service The startup and IT capital of India Bengaluru (2nd) and millennial city Gurgaon (5th) are among CBREs top five tech cities in the Asia Pacific, alongside Beijing (1st), Shanghai(3rd) and Singapore (4th). According to a CBRE report titled Programming Asia Pacifics Tech Cities as Global Tech Hubs, Bengaluru houses over 30 per cent of the countrys start-ups and contributes significantly to Indias tech sector. At 155 million square feet, the city has the largest office stock in the country with another more than 30 million square feet of office space due for completion before 2021. Rental growth in the city is expected to remain buoyant, with the tech space slated to expand steadily. Similarly, Gurgaon has evolved to be the regional pivot of North Indias technology industry with an office stock of more than 60 million square feet, says the report. Gurgaon houses some of the biggest global and domestic corporations and many more are looking to set up their back-office/front-office operations here. The report also notes that despite the absence of any principal city or cluster of the same status as Silicon Valley, technology companies continue to fuel office demand in the APAC region. The burgeoning growth of the regions technology sector accounted for 23 per cent of total leasing activity in 2018. Anshuman Magazine, Chairman and CEO, India, South East Asia, Middle East and Africa, CBRE, said India is home to an increasing number of tech unicorns and the Asia Pacific is increasingly defined as the region leading in the rapid adoption of disruptive technology. However, there is still room for growth in terms of identifying locations where business conditions, innovation and talent come together to form a globally competitive digital hub. Additionally, Indian cities enjoy a cost advantage over other major markets, with labour costs that are the lowest in the region. CBRE identifies Asia Pacifics leading technology cities by assessing 15 markets according to their business conditions, innovation environment, and cost and availability. Complementing the five leading markets, cities including Seoul, Tokyo, Hangzhou, Shenzhen and Hyderabad represent the emerging tier of Asia Pacific regions technology hubs, the report pointed out. Further down the list are cities like Hong Kong, Sydney, Hsinchu, Taipei and Auckland, all of which rate favorably on certain important parameters. By Express News Service HYDERABAD: Pharmaceuticals firm Lupin Ltd on Monday said one of its plants in Goa may be subject to regulatory action by the US FDA. The Mumbai-based drug's maker added that the drugs controller may withhold approval of pending applications in which the facility is listed. An OAI classification is one where approvals of pending applications or supplements from the site may be withheld. However, the company said it did not believe that the classification would have an impact on supplies or the existing revenues from operations of the facility. Lupin is also in the process of sending further updates of its corrective actions to the USFDA and was hopeful of a positive outcome. The company has received a communication from the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA), classifying the inspection conducted at its Goa facility between January 28 and February 8, 2019, as Official Action Indicated (OAI), Lupin said in a disclosure with exchanges. The inspection at the Goa facility had closed with two observations. Based on USFDAs Concept of Operations programme, the company said it understood that the status of the facility was still under review.The USFDA has stated that this facility may be subject to regulatory or administrative action and that it may withhold approval of any pending applications or supplements in which this facility is listed, the company added in the disclosure. By Express News Service CHENNAI: A 47-year-old man who was in an inebriated condition allegedly cut his own genitals in Madhavaram during the wee hours of Sunday. Aslam Basha, a resident of Kannagi Street, Thiruvalluvar Nagar in Kolathur, was found unconscious under the Rettei Eri flyover near Madhavaram on Sunday morning at around 7. A passerby who found him bleeding and a blade in his hand and immediately alerted the Madhavaram police. A team rushed to the spot and rushed him to the government hospital. A police officer, quoting the victim, said he took the step as he was depressed and was under tension. Police said Aslam owned a textile shop in Moore Market 10 years ago.He was an alcoholic and was in rehabilitation for the last six months. However, on Friday, he left home and never returned. It was later found that he had consumed alcohol after six months and was at a TASMAC shop near the Rettei Eri flyover, added the officer. Aslam's two daughters are married and settled. Police said the locals near the TASMAC had spotted him wandering in the same locality on Friday evening. We videotaped his confession in which he claimed to have cut his own genitals out of mere tension, said the officer. A case has been registered and further investigations are on. By PTI NEW DELHI: AAP national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will attend the swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi as prime minister on Thursday. The chief minister has been invited for the ceremony and he will attend it, a Delhi government official confirmed. The ruling AAP in Delhi and the BJP were involved in a bitter war of words with both sides attacking each other in a no holds barred contest. Delhi Congress president and three-time former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit said she has not received any invitation for Modi's swearing-in ceremony. The BJP won all the seven seats in Delhi routing both the Congress and the AAP in the Lok Sabha polls. Kakoli Mukherjee By Express News Service HYDERABAD: Time and again, people have turned to unconventional options to treat various ailments. These treatments might not have the approval of doctors, but that has not deterred enthusiastic or desperate users from giving such products a try. Some of these components have been touted to be beneficial for skin care and beauty, and are in demand in specific countries. Here is a look at some animal oils available in the city which purportedly have a range of benefits - from treating body aches to removing unwanted hair. However, none of them are said to be clinically proven, and they create demand for unethical products that use animal fats. Emu Oil Emu Oil is said to treat body aches, minor wounds and is also used as a moisturiser. It is extracted from the fat deposits present in the bird. Sheetal Kumar, manager at RK Emu Farm, says: Emu oil is used for joint pains, and even as hair oil. But a lot of people do not know about this. Also, the demand has gone down in the city in the past few years. Its demand is more in the international market. Explaining the oil extraction technique, he says: Meat and oil can be extracted from the same bird. After the bird is killed, their fat is extracted and then processed into oil. One bird, which might weigh between 35-40 kg, will give 15-20 kg meat and 5-6 litres of oil. We pack the oil in 50ml and 100 ml bottles and sell them to dealers.Sri Lakshmi Kolluri, a dermatologist at Continental Hospital, says: Emu oil is supposed to treat body aches, but am not sure. It definitely has use for the skin. People should consult doctors before using such products. Horse oil When you step into the recently-opened Miniso stores in Hyderabad, which is a Japanese brand, you cannot help but notice the rows of beauty products with horse oil in them. According to Elle.com, Horse oil and horse oil products have been used for centuries in the Far East for treating mild skin complaints, such as burns, cuts and eczema. Being derived from fat, its no surprise that horse oil contains an essential fatty acid called linolenic acid but more so than in cows and sheep. Linolenic acid is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties and helps to maintain and repair the barrier of the skin. By doing this, its going to keep moisture in, and the bad stuff out, which in turn should contribute to healthy, glowing skin. Brands selling the product maintain that the oil is extracted from horses which are killed for meat, and no animal is killed exclusively for the oil. Ant egg oil Ant egg oil, which purportedly removes body hair permanently, is sold by a few retailers in the city and is widely available online. The use of this oil is said to have originated in Turkey, where it was used to reduce the appearance of body hair for men, women and children. Animal rights Pravallika N, founder and chairperson,Compassionate Society for Animals, says: From its name, its easy to guess that this new wonder beauty product (with horse oil) is derived from our four legged friends, specifically from the fat of the horse, which may sound gross but using fat from animals isnt a new idea. Animal byproducts have been used in beauty for centuries with ingredients like gelatin and lanolin common in many commercial formulas. Unlike lanolin, which can be extracted from sheep wool without harming the sheep, horse oil is solely a byproduct from horse meat production, in countries that eat horse meat (quite a few!). Horse oil and horse oil products have been used for centuries in the Far East for treating mild skin complaints, such as burns, cuts and eczema. Mexico, Switzerland, Kazakhstan, Belgium, Japan, Germany, Indonesia, Poland and China are among the nations where many people eat horse meat without a second thought. The products, however, are not clinically tested or proven to be helpful. Though the brands say that the animal components are mere byproducts, they undoubtedly create a market for products that may lead to animal cruelty. kakoli_mukherjee@newindianexpress.com @KakoliMukherje2 By Online Desk National leaders of the seven Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), countries are invited for the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 30 as per sources. A statement issued on Sunday had said that the President will administer the oath of the office and secrecy to the Prime Minister and other members of the Union Council of Ministers at 7 pm on May 30, 2019, at Rashtrapati Bhavan. However, for a second time, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will miss Modi's swearing-in as she will be on a three-nation foreign visit, officials in Dhaka said Monday. Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Huq will attend the ceremony as the senior-most Cabinet member of the Bangladesh government. Hasina will be on a tri-nation visit to Japan, Saudi Arabia and Finland beginning Tuesday. She could not attend the previous swearing-in ceremony of Modi in 2014 as she was abroad then too. Last time, Parliament Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury attended Modi's swearing-in ceremony held on May 26. The Bangladesh PM was one of the first foreign leaders to congratulate Modi following his thumping Lok Sabha election victory, reflecting the "extraordinarily close and cordial ties" between India and Bangladesh, and the excellent rapport that the two leaders enjoy. She also spoke to Modi on Thursday and said this "emphatic verdict is a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed on you by the people of the world's largest democracy. The BIMSTEC consists of countries that are dependent on Bay of Bengal, namely Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan. It was formed in June 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration. Its purpose is to serve as a bridge between South and South East Asia. Along with BIMSTEC nation heads, the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, who is the current Chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and the Prime Minister of Mauritius, who was the Chief Guest at this year's Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, have also been invited. In 2014 when Modi won his first term, all the SAARC leaders, including the then Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attended the swearing-in as part of invitations extended to all the member countries of the South Asian grouping. But relations with Pakistan soured mid-term and hit its nadir after the Pulwama attack in February which was followed by India's aerial strikes on terror camps in Balakot in Pakistan. (With inputs from ANI and PTI) Richa Sharma By Express News Service NEW DELHI: A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhis offer to resign was rejected by the Congress Working Committee (CWC), the partys highest decision-making body, there were mixed signals over his future course of action. While a leader close to Rahul said he is adamant over resignation, another leader said he has accepted the unanimous decision of the CWC to continue leading the party. However, major organisational changes are expected soon and the party is exploring options to have working presidents or vice presidents. According to sources, Rahul did not have any official appointments on Sunday but sister and newly appointed general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called on him. Meanwhile, the party is charting out his tour schedule for his parliamentary constituency Wayanad. Rahul won from Wayanad with a record margin, though he lost the family pocket borough of Amethi. Taking full responsibility for the disastrous performance, Rahul had offered to resign on Saturday, though the CWC rejected it. The party managed to get just 52 Lok Sabha seats, eight more than its tally in 2014. At the CWC meeting, Rahul had lashed out at the senior party leadership for putting the interests of their family ahead of that of the party. He specifically named Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath and former Union minister P Chidambaram, saying they insisted on tickets for their sons. The CWC has agreed to amend the party constitution to introduce organisational changes in the party. Initially, the party is likely to appoint new state chiefs and general secretaries in many states as part of the overhaul. The decisions are expected to be taken soon keeping in mind upcoming Assembly elections to three states, Haryana, Maharashtra and Jharkhand, said a party leader. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: With efforts on to convince Congress President Rahul Gandhi to continue as party chief, party leadership is expected to meet later during the day. A series of party leaders went to meet him along with Priyanka Gandhi, organisational secretary KC Venugopal, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Deputy CM Sachin Pilot, Communications department head RS Surjewala. According to sources, Rahul Gandhi continues to remain adamant on his stand that a non-Gandhi family member should lead the party. "He is sticking to his point of view and is really upset with the Lok Sabha election results. A meeting is scheduled for party leaders to discuss things. We all have decided that together we will convince him," said a senior Congress leader. READ MORE | Rahul adamant on resigning as Congress chief, party to meet again in four days After Rahul Gandhi's stand, state in-charges of party from Odisha, Punjab, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Assam, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have offered to resign taking responsibility for Congress debacle in the recently concluded General Elections. Congress managed to win only 52 seats, eight more than the 2014, this time. Meanwhile, some state units have sent in messages. "As a foot soldier of INCIndia, I urge Congress President Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his resignation. We may have lost this election but we need his guidance to continue the fight against people in power and against their Anti-poor, anti-farmer, anti-youth& anti-women policies," tweeted Gujarat PCC chief Amit Chavda. Senior party leader M Veerappa Moily said reviving a party is a 5 year process and it a takes a leader like him to think long term and bring INC to its rightful position to serve the people of India. "It's not the question of finding a person outside the family. INC itself is one big family and he belongs to that family. In 2014, when everyone wrote off the INC, it was Rahul Gandhi who fought back and made INC relevant again. In 2019, he took on the right issues and cornered the BJP. He should continue to be INC president. We cannot afford not to have him in that position," said Moily. The CWC meeting was held in the backdrop of the Congress winning just 52 Lok Sabha seats and drawing a nought in 18 states and Union Territories. Gandhi himself lost from the family bastion of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, though he won from Wayanad in Kerala. Namita Bajpai By Express News Service LUCKNOW: Buoyed by the resounding success of his party in the LS polls, PM-elect Narendra Modi on Monday told the opposition parties they can no longer treat the BJP as untouchable. Accusing rivals of propagating a false perception about his party to create hatred in the minds of voters, he said the BJP had to work hard to swing the optics in its favour. Speaking during his thanksgiving visit to his parliamentary constituency Varanasi on Monday, the PM-designate batted for the politics of inclusiveness and stressed the need to accept positivity. Training his guns on political pundits who specialise in caste-based politics, he said it is high time they woke up to the new normal of democracy as shown by UP results. Elections might have been guided by the caste calculus in the past but post-2019 polls, the political pundits will have to accept that there is a personal chemistry on the ground beyond any caste arithmetic. The elections have shown that chemistry defeats all calculations based on caste, he said. He also targeted the media for under-reporting violence against BJP workers. Hundreds of (BJP) workers have been killed only for political ideology. In Tripura, workers were hanged; in Bengal, murders are still on; in Kerala too... perhaps in India only one political party has faced such killings. Violence has been given legitimacy. This is a danger before us, Modi said. Flanked by party chief Amit Shah, UP CM Yogi Aditayanath and newly-elected party MPs of eastern UP, Modis visit to Varanasi seemed more of an attempt to lay out the roadmap for the next battle of 2022 in UP. Perhaps it was with that in mind that he sought to portray the image of a humble PM-designate batting for inclusive socio-political narrative rather than that of a muscular leader. Investors richer by Rs 3.86 Lakh crore Investors wealth has risen Rs 3.86 lakh crore in two days of the market rise where the Sensex has gained 872 pts after a clear mandate for the BJP By PTI THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Congress leader AP Abdullakutty has courted controversy by praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the BJP-led NDA's massive victory in the Lok Sabha election, prompting the party to seek an explanation from him. Pointing out that the victory was acceptance of Modi's development agenda, he said the secret of the PM's success was that he had adopted Gandhian values. He also hailed the centre's Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (SBA), which envisages cleaning up India's cities, towns and rural areas and to eliminate open defecation through construction of household-owned and community-owned toilets. The Congress leader also lauded the Ujjwala Yojana in which the government's aim was to distribute 50 million LPG connections to women of BPL families. In a Facebook post, titled "On Narendra Modi's impressive victory", Abdullakutty said not only the opposition but even those inside the BJP have been taken by surprise at the saffron party's massive victory. All political workers should keep their feelings apart, and keenly take a look at the results in a "calm and impartial manner," he said. READ| Sachin Pilot may quit Congress if Rahul Gandhi resigns as party president Abdullakutty, who had been sacked from CPI(M) in 2009 for violating party discipline for praising Modi while he was the Gujarat chief minister, had served as MP from Kannur in 1999 and 2004. He later joined the Congress. "Mahatma Gandhi had told social workers that when you formulate a policy, you should remember the face of a poor man whom you have met. Modi implemented it accurately," Abdullakutty said. The centre's flagship SBA project helped 9.16 crore families get their own toilets and the Ujjwala scheme enabled 6 crore BPL families get free LPG connections, he said. "Once, we cross Kerala border, what we see is independent India's most pathetic sight-- open defecation by the poor of the country. Modi, to a certain extent, gave justice to them. The free LPG connections was a huge relief to 6 crore BPL mothers, who until then, used dried cowdung and wood in their kitchens," he said. Smart cities, bullet trains and many other dream projects were brought into Modi's political agenda and one cannot turn a blind eye to these facts, the two-time former MP said. "Our politics is changing completely. Victory is with development. When Modi is criticised, these facts should be remembered," he said in the post. Meanwhile, Congress' Kerala president Mullapally Ramachandran Tuesday said the party will seek an explanation from Abdullakutty on his Modi praise. "My opinion is strong action should be taken against him," he told reporters here. Dismissing the remarks, senior Congress leader K Muraleedharan, who was recently elected to the Lok Sabha, said the act of praising Modi by any congress worker cannot be accepted and was wrong. "There is no compromise on this matter," he said. State youth Congress president Dean Kuriakose, who won the Lok Sabha polls from Idukki, also came out against Abdullakutty's remarks. Taking a dig, CPI(M) leader and Kannur district secretary M V Jayarajan said Abdullakutty is waiting to join the BJP. Mukesh Ranjan By Express News Service RANCHI: A woman allegedly tried to end her life in Deoghar, Jharkhand, after she was denied funds for the construction of toilet under Swacch Bharat scheme. According to family members, Mita Devi and her husband Surja Chand had been running after officials for the last year but after their efforts bore no fruit, she consumed poison on Sunday morning. She was admitted to a local hospital in Deoghar by her husband and other family members. Mita is said to be out of danger. The husband works as a newspaper vendor, while her mother-in-law works as a domestic help. Mitas family have been living in a kaccha house for 25 years and used to defecate out in the open. But of late, the place has become densely populated and lack of open space led to the problem. Our financial condition is not so good so we submitted an application with the ward councilor but he did not pay heed to it. We then knocked on the doors of Deoghar Municipal Corporation (DMC), but all in vain, said Surja. DMC Zonal Chairman Ravi Raut claimed that the incident took place only due to negligence of DMC. Incidentally, the district has been declared open defecation free (ODF) a year back. It appears that Mita Devi submitted her application with DMC, but they misplaced it due to negligence. There are at least 1000 such applications pending with them due to which those households still lack toilets, said Raut. DMC officials could not be contacted over phone. By Express News Service MUMBAI: One of the three doctors accused of the abetting suicide of Dr Payal Tadvi was arrested on Tuesday even as the family of the deceased have voiced suspicion that Payal might have been murdered by the accused doctors. Agripada police arrested Bhakti Mehere after initial interrogation, a police official said. The two other accused doctors Ankita Khandelwal and Hema Ahuja have moved an anticipatory bail application before the session court here. In their bail plea, the three doctors claimed that they were not aware of the victims caste and had only professional interaction with her. National Commission of Women's letter to the Director of BYL Nair Hospital requesting for an investigation into the case. Payal Tadvi (26) killed herself on May 22 while mentioning names of her three seniors in the suicide note. Her family has alleged that her doctor colleagues had taunted her for belonging to the scheduled tribe (ST). The Maharashtra State Commission for Woman (MSCW) and the National Commission for Women (NCW) on Tuesday took cognizance of the case and called for a probe. Meanwhile, Payals parents, who protested at the BYL Nair hospital, where she worked, said, Payal used to tell me about the torture which she was facing from her seniors on petty issues. They threw files on her face in front of patients. READ HERE | Dr Payal Tadvi suicide case: Head of Gynaecology dept suspended until further notice She used to tell me not to give a written complaint against her seniors despite being harassed by them, said Payals mother Abeda. Salman, Payals husband, who too is a doctor, said it is possible that Payal was murdered. Protesters belonging to the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi and other Dalit and tribal organizations joined Abeda and Salman in their protests. They demanded stringent action against the accused. The three accused doctors have been booked under Prevention of Atrocities Act, Anti-Ragging Act, IT Act and Section 306 (abetment to suicide) of the IPC. NCST issues notice to Maharashtra hospital The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has issued a notice to BYL Nair Hospital in Mumbai over the suicide of a doctor who killed herself after being allegedly subjected to casteist slurs. The Commission has issued notices to Maharashtra chief secretary, health secretary, Mumbai Police Commissioner, BYL Nair Hospital authorities seeking a response from them in the next 10 days. The NCST will visit Mumbai next week where it will meet hospital authorities and visit the deceased doctors family to look into the issue in-depth. We are still waiting for further details, said A K Singh, NCST secretary. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Victory in the Lok Sabha elections notwithstanding, the ruling NDA will find itself hamstrung while pushing crucial legislation, as it does not have the numbers in the Rajya Sabha. Not yet. That situation could change within a couple of years if the BJP does well in the Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand Assembly polls slated for next year. In the Rajya Sabha, the NDA currently has 99 members while the majority mark is 124. Assuming it does well in the three states, it could get a majority in the Upper House by 2021-end. Also, states like Uttar Pradesh will contribute in a big way to the BJPs kitty. Ten Rajya Sabha seats will fall vacant in the state in 2020. The BJP can win nine of them thanks to the partys landslide victory in Uttar Pradesh in 2017. Add to that basket the seats pooled by NDA allies like the JD(U) in Bihar, the AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra and 124 seats could be a breeze within two years. The outgoing Narendra Modi government had secured the support of many non-NDA, non-UPA parties like the BJD, the TRS and the YSR Congress on several legislations. But contentious bills like those on abolishing Triple Talaq and amending the Citizenship Act were stuck in the Rajya Sabha due to lack of support. They eventually lapsed because of the dissolution of the Lok Sabha on Saturday. The BJP could get even bolder if it manages to get a majority on its own in the Rajya Sabha. By UNI PATHANKOT: Intelligence inputs about the possible militant attack on both the city and cantonment railway stations in Pathankot has sounded high alert in and around both the railway stations besides all important public places in the city. In a letter written to the Station Superintendent on May 25, Northern Railways here, the Inspector Operations (GRP) has said that the inputs received from the Central Intelligence Agencies had expressed apprehensions that the militant outfit Islamic State (IS) had threatened to blow up Pathankot Railway Station and Pathankot Cantonment Railway Station, which is popularly known as Chakki Bank Railway Station. The letter has cautioned the railway authorities also to instruct their employees not to park their vehicles in the platform or loco shed at both the railway stations. SHO Kuldip Singh (GRP) said on Tuesday that security of both the railway stations and around had been beefed up. He said that the force was taking extra precautionary measures by way of conducting search operations at both the railway stations and around. Bags and other belongings of the passengers at both the entry and exit points are being scanned to foil any kind of untoward incidents. It will be worth mentioning that the militants of the Pakistan based militant outfit JeM had attacked Pathankot Air Base on January 2016 in which six soldiers and an officer was martyred. In 2016, an Indian Air Force base in Pathankot was attacked by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists wherein six soldiers and an officer lost their lives before the terrorists were eliminated. By PTI MUNGER (Bihar): JD(U) legislator Mewalal Choudhary and wife Nita Choudhary, also an ex-MLA, have sustained severe burn injuries in a gas cylinder explosion in Bihar's Munger district, the police said. While Nita suffered 90 per cent burn injuries and was battling for life, her husband escaped with burns on his hands, Munger Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Hari Shankar Kumar told PTI. Sources in the neighbourhood said the couple woke up to foul smell in the middle of the night and switched on the lights in the kitchen, triggering the cylinder blast. The ASP, however, clarified that the reason behind the explosion can be ascertained only after a thorough probe. Kumar said the couple was rushed to Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital, Bhagalpur, where the doctors referred Nita to Patna Medical College and Hospital. "From what we have heard last, Nita Chowdhury is being airlifted to Delhi from Patna for better treatment," he added. Mewalal Choudhary is the JD(U) legislator from Tarapur Assembly constituency in Munger. His wife had also represented the constituency in the past. Harpreet Bajwa By Express News Service CHANDIGARH: Talks between India and Pakistan to discuss the technical modalities for the Kartarpur corridor hit a roadblock, as Pakistan wants a causeway to be built while India is insisting on a bridge on the Ravi river. Highly placed sources claimed that the third technical meeting between officials of both the countries, held on Monday at the Kartarpur Zero Point on the India-Pakistan border, lasted for two hours. The Indian delegation comprised of officials from the Ministry of External Affairs, the Minister of Home Affairs, the Land Port Authority of India and the National Highway Authority of India. The Pakistani delegation consisted of officials of the Frontier Works Organization, an engineering organization of the army. Apart from the causeway on the Ravi river, they also proposed an elevated road which will connect it. The Indian side wanted to build an 800- metre bridge on the river to connect the corridor. Sources further said the Pakistani side was apprehensive that if a bridge is built, then during the monsoon season the excess water which naturally flows towards their side will create problems for them and endanger the proposed bridge. That is why they insisted on building a causeway. Also, 500m have to be built by Pakistan and 300m by India. Two such meetings have already been held at the same point. In the last meeting, it was learnt that the two parties could not come to an agreement on the same issue. A causeway means a road supported by earth or stone while a bridge is a supported road between piers. Meeting Indian delegation comprised of officials from Ministry of External Affairs, Minister of Home Affairs, Land Port Authority of India and National Highway Authority of India. Pakistani delegation consisted of Frontier Works Organization officials By PTI KOLKATA: Filmstar-turned-politicians Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan have created a buzz on social media after they posted their pictures in front of Parliament, with netizens trolling them, even as a section of them also came out in support of the two newly elected TMC MPs. In the pictures, Mimi and Nusrat, who have won by huge margins from Jadavpur and Basirhat Lok Sabha seats respectively in West Bengal, were seen holding up their identity cards in front of the Parliament building. "1st day #LokSabha #MemberOfParliament. Wish me luck and keep supporting," Mimi captioned a photograph of hers. Nusrat also posted a picture of hers in front of the Parliament, and wrote "A new beginning. !! I thank Mamata Banerjee and people of my #Basirhat constituency to have belief in me". The act of the two first-time MPs did not seem to go down well with a section of netizens, as a number of messages trolling the two actors appeared on social media. Mimi, however, seemed to be unperturbed by this. Her manager Rudradeep Banerjee said she does not want to attach much importance to such trolls. "It is going on since she was nominated as a candidate. People are doing this for publicity," he said. And its us again 1st day at Parliament @nusratchirps pic.twitter.com/ohBalZTJCV Mimssi (@mimichakraborty) May 27, 2019 Several calls made to Nusrat Jahan went unanswered. One of the trolls on social media said, "That (the Parliament) is the temple of democracy, not a place for tiktok". "Just like you don't wear fancy dress and heavy jewellery and hop around while attending a funeral, you don't dress up like a "mourning lady" and weep while attending a marriage party. These dresses which Mimi and Nusrat wore, aren't indecent but inappropriate for Parliament. These dresses will suit a page 3 party, or a public park, or a mall, or a tourist spot, or even a news channel interview. But certainly these dresses don't suit the Parliament house," said one of the messages critical of their appearance at the Parliament. One of the posts asked the two MPs to perform their duties, so that people's dreams also come true. "Congratulations and all the best to this two young parliamentarians but wud suggest work for the people state n nation rather than just clicking pics all around," said another message. This is the difference.. pic.twitter.com/to9Wu5UPxw Raman Rajpoot (@Er_Raman_Rajput) May 28, 2019 There are, however, several netizens who came out in support of the two actors. "Ironic that those who like to call themselves liberals are getting all worked up over what two adults chose to wear in the Parliament," said a message. Another man who came out in support of Mimi and Nusrat asked, "So why and how is this news that 2 new MPs, who also happen to be young women actors, posed in front of the Parliament? Freedom of speech, I guess. Shouldn't we also be protesting and confronting our politicians on so many other, far more impactful, counts - lack of their attendance, fighting & creating a ruckus in the parliament in full view of the country, not asking relevant and enough questions, delaying critical laws on several important matters, etc," the post said. Harpreet Bajwa By Express News Service CHANDIGARH: Want to be a political leader like Prime Minister Narendra Modi or West Bengal and Punjab Chief Ministers Mamata Banerjee and Amarinder Singh? Wannabe politicians can now join Punjabi University in Patiala for a PG diploma course in Political leadership and governance, which will include internship with a political party. The one-year course to be run by the Centre for Public Policy and Governance from the coming academic year, will admit 30 students with a minimum 45% marks in bachelors and a fee of Rs 18,117. Its objective: to refine personal leadership styles, develop emotional intelligence and provide skill sets to budding leaders with a panache to make it big as community leaders. Prof Rajbans Singh Gill, the Director of the centre, claimed the course would be the first of its kind in the country and only the second of its type in the world after the International Institute for Management Development Business School in Lausanne, Switzerland. Great leaders have the power to motivate behaviour, create change and inspire others to do their best. In short, they possess skills that deliver results. With our course, youll gain the competencies required to lead, said Gill. The idea to start the course came because it was felt that democracy in particular and politics in general, are two significant areas of public life where capacity-building mechanisms are absent. Most officials mandatorily undergo some training and those who delegate powers are believed to be born with the skill to govern. But this presupposition is a potential threat to welfare states and development administration. Instructors said the objectives of the course are to impart necessary skills for politics, management and governance through classroom study. There will also be field visits, internship and research. The centre plans to attach and place students with various specialized cells of political parties for a hands-on experience in various aspects of political, administrative and governing systems. Not everyone is enthused by the course, though. Former Punjab education minister, Daljeet Singh Cheema, said, The course can be of little help. You need an inner drive and instinct for politics. No classroom can prepare a person to be among the people. Practical experience is essential." But chartered accountant Raman Aggarwal differed. Its good that aspiring leaders can be trained in sound concepts and be prepared to professionally handle socio-political situations. I wish all politicians are trained, he said. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba is likely to be appointed the next cabinet secretary, according to sources. Gauba, a 1982 Jharkhand cadre officer, is expected to take over as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) on June 1 to familiarise himself with the workings of the Cabinet Secretariat, although his tenure as home secretary is due to end in August. Incumbent Cabinet Secretary P K Sinhas tenure will expire on June 12. Sinha has been holding the position for four years now and his tenure was extended twice in the past. As per rules, no government servant shall get an extension in service beyond the age of 60 but rule FR 56 allows it in public interest for a period not exceeding four years in the case of Cabinet Secretary. Meanwhile, the tenure of incumbent Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra will end on May 30. Both home and defence secretaries have a fixed tenure of two years. Indias security establishment, Intelligence Bureau and R&AW, needs new bosses since service extensions to the incumbents to end on May 29 and May 30, respectively. For the defence secretarys position, several names are doing the rounds Defence Production Secretary Ajay Kumar, Banking Secretary Rajeev Kumar, Environment Secretary C K Mishra and Power Secretary Ajay Bhalla. Parvathi Benu By Express News Service You've just come out of a meeting, tired and hungry. It is the beginning of the month and you do not mind spending some extra cash. Remember, you've been craving some chicken since morning. What is the next thing that you'd do? Pick up your phone and order some chicken curry online (Hail Zomato). Now, your head is filled with a million thoughts. You're wondering what is taking the delivery guy too long. The restaurant is just 2 km away after all! Twenty minutes of patience later, there is light on the other side of the door. No, it isn't the delivery executive, but a friend who cooked some extra biriyani for you. You're delighted (obviously). While savouring the first spoon of your meal, you pick up your phone and cancel the order. Now, have you wondered what happens to the chicken curry that you ordered? Neither did we, until Pathikrit Saha, a Zomato delivery executive in Kolkata broke it down for us. "Here, the merchant has no loss. Zomato pays them the money. As delivery executives, we are instructed to either return the food or to keep it with ourselves. Many delivery executives return the food to the restaurants, who sell it again earning extra profit," he says. Here's his message to the other delivery executives: Pathikrit isn't one of the returning crowd, nor does he think about gobbling down the free meal. Instead, he feeds them to the poor children who live near the city's Dum Dum Cantonment Railway station. But this 26-year-old's story neither begins nor ends with this. There is a lot more to it. To get a clearer picture of it, let us go four years back in time. Pathikrit, a then Kolkata Municipal Corporation employee was near the Dum Dum Cantonment when a young boy came running to him, begging for money. "He fell at my feet and wasn't letting go. I was irritated. Previously, I've seen homeless children wasting all their money on cheap drugs and I thought that he was an addict too," he recalls. "I ended up slapping him. The child broke down saying that his mother forces him to beg on the streets every day. If he failed to earn a certain amount of money every day, he was denied food and had to sleep on the streets," he adds. That was an eye opener for Pathikrit. "I realised how easy it was to make a child cry and I wanted to look for a long term solution to make these children happy," he says. From that day, along with a few friends, he started teaching the underprivileged children in a building near the railway station every day. These classes have been going on for the past four years. "Until now we have admitted 19 students in primary schools. Around 15 students attend our classes every day," he says. "I do not want to donate anything to them. Instead, I want them to be independent," he adds. Pathikrit regularly organised clothes donation drives in his locality. During one such drive, he went to a government school, where he saw something which seemed unnatural to him. "While children from middle-class families ask for new lunch boxes every six months, the children here considered themselves lucky to have one. Wonder why? They take home a portion from their midday meal to feed their family. That was when I realised the importance of food," he says. Inspired by this, he got associated with a Facebook Group called Nale Jhule, who provided free meals to underprivileged children every day. This went on for a year. That was when he met a restaurant owner, popularly known as Roll Kaku. "He owns a restaurant near the cantonment. Generous would be an understatement for Roll Kaku, who feeds all the leftover food and cancelled orders in his restaurant to the poor children," he says. Pathikrit often helped Kaku deliver food. But a year later, Nale Jhule came to a standstill. "The children were hungry, but we didn't have a source to feed them constantly. That was when I took up a job with Zomato," says Pathikrit. That was around the same time that the food delivery start-up began the Feeding Indian initiative, where cancelled orders were redirected to orphanages nearby. But Pathikrit has a slightly different perspective here, different from that of his employer. "Most of the orphanages are able to afford food. But there are a lot of street children, who are in dire need of food," he says. "Many times, orders get cancelled owing to faulty packaging or a delay in delivery. Every day, at least two orders of mine get cancelled. Imagine, what if every delivery executive decides to deliver all the cancelled order to a street child in their locality. The world would be a much happier place. I'm addicted to those children's smiles and I would do anything to keep it alive," he signs off. (This story originally appeared on edexlive.com) By IANS JAIPUR: With uncertainty looming over Rahul Gandhi continuing as Congress president, there is speculation that Sachin Pilot too may quit as Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress chief along with his team of MLAs, in case Gandhi quits his post. Party sources say Rahul Gandhi was instrumental in making Pilot as the state Congress chief in 2014. After the Assembly polls late last year, Pilot was made Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's deputy. With Congress chief himself mulling over his resignation, Pilot's future hangs in the balance, sources said. In the 200-member Rajasthan Assembly, the Congress has 100 members, the BJP 73 members, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) 6, Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) 3, Communist Party of India-Marxist 2, Bharatiya Tribal Party (BTP) 2, the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) 1 and 13 Independent members. ALSO READ | As Rahul adamant to quit as Congress chief, Priyanka Gandhi, Sachin Pilot meet him The Gehlot government is supported by the 6 BSP MLAs and 12 Independents. However, it appears to be in a crisis at present. On Monday, the BSP MLAs were expected to meet Governor Kalyan Singh. However, the meeting was cancelled at the last minute. A state minister, Congress' Lalchand Kataria, is also reported to have tendered his resignation, though there was no confirmation from the offices of the Chief Minister and the Governor. Another Congress leader said: "Sachin Pilot is intelligent, educated and has gained credibility as a farmer leader too. He can be a good leader anywhere in the country. There are fair chances that the party may assign him to a new location. ALSO READ | Ups and downs are common, Rahul should continue as Congress chief: Moily "Also, Pilot's five-year tenure as state Congress Committee chief ended in March. He was given an extension till October in view of the Lok Sabha polls. Now that might be preponed," said the Congress leader. In case the Congress asks him to shift base, there are chances of Pilot deserting the Congress and then staking his claim to form a government, along with a few independent and BJP MLAs. This way he would get to become the chief minister. "Before the Assembly elections, Ashok Gehlot was the All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and Pilot was the Rajasthan Congress Committee President. There was clear segregation of their roles," said the Congress leader. ALSO READ | Lalu advises Rahul against resigning as Congress chief, says his offer is suicidal Ahead of the Assembly elections in December last year, when Pilot was projected by the Congress as its chief ministerial face in Rajasthan elections, Gehlot insisted on being given a ticket from Jodhpur. "After the elections, Pilot fought for the Chief Minister's post because he had toiled for five years to build the party in Rajasthan. "However, he did not get what he deserved. Party leaders Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh preferred Gehlot's seniority and he was made the Chief Minister," said a Congress leader. Gehlot was also asked to take care of the party's Lok Sabha election campaign. But the Gehlot-Pilot team of young and old blood failed to show any magic in the parliamentary elections where Congress suffered a rout. By PTI JAIPUR: Rajasthan's six BSP MLAs will meet party chief Mayawati in Delhi on June 1 during which the party's performance in the Lok Sabha polls in the state will be reviewed, a legislator said Tuesday. BSP MLA Wajib Ali told PTI that the party's support to the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government would continue. "There is no agenda of withdrawing support from the government, rather we will discuss how efficiently we can work with the government here," he said. "We will discuss the party's performance in the Lok Sabha elections in the state. The future strategy will also be discussed in the meeting," the MLA added. The six BSP MLAs were scheduled to meet Governor Kalyan Singh here on Monday but the meeting was cancelled at the last moment. Ali said that based on the discussions with the party chief, a decision would be taken regarding the meeting with the governor. In the house of 200 MLAs, the Congress has 100 and its ally Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) has one. Besides the BSP, which has 6 MLAs, the Congress has the support of 12 out of total 13 independent MLAs. Namita Bajpai By Express News Service LUCKNOW: Surendra Singh, a close political aide of Amethis newly-elected MP Smriti Irani, fell victim to local political rivalry, police said Monday. Singh, 50, was shot dead by assailants in the verandah of his house in Bamrauli village of Amethi on te intervening night of last Saturday-Sunday. UP Director General of Police OP Singh said, three persons have been arrested in connection with the murder. Three suspects have been arrested. Two are still absconding but we will nab them soon. On the basis of evidence presented, it is very clear that this is a case of local political rivalry, the DGP said. Singh, a former village head of Barauli had spearheaded a vigorous election campaign for BJP candidate Smriti Irani in Amethi during the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls. Notably, in the most talked about reverses, Irani defeated Congress chief Rahul Gandhi in a tough battle by 55,000 votes. According to the police, the former village head was shot in the head by bike-borne assailants while he was asleep in the verandah of his house. He was rushed to a hospital where doctors declared him dead. The police tried to probe the possibility of personal enmity as the motive for the crime but the family of the deceased alleged it was a political killing. Family speaks Surendra Singhs son told police his father recently had an argument with some Congress supporters, while the deceaseds brother said he wielded influence in the area and was popular, thats why he was killed Namita Bajpai By Express News Service LUCKNOW: The toll in hooch tragedy that struck a cluster of villages in Barabanki district of Uttar Pradesh on Monday night has risen to 14. The incident came to light on Tuesday when Lekhpal, Sadar Badel, disclosed to the media persons that eight persons had died after consuming spurious liquor in Ramnagar police station area of Barabanki, some 40 km from state capital Lucknow. The incident has come as a chilling reminder of the hooch tragedy which had claimed 116 lives in Saharanpur and Kushinagar districts in February, this year. As per the sources, three persons were admitted to a local hospital in critical condition of which one had already succumbed. The toll is likely to rise further. The victims belonged to different villages under Ramnagar police station area of Barabanki. As per the local sources, the villagers consumed the country made liquor bought from the shop of one Danvir Singh in Raniganj area. After the drinks, all those who had consumed it complained of cholera-like symptoms coupled with a stomachache. They were rushed to the Community Health Centre (CHC) to be referred to the district hospital where four persons died during the treatment. Though the administration was confirming the death of only six persons, UP CM Yogi Adityanath took the cognizance of the tragedy and announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the next kin of the deceased. A three-member committee comprising Divisional commissioner, IG Ayodhya and Excise commissioner, was set up to probe into the incident and produce a report within next 48 hours. State health minister Siddharth Nath Singh confirmed that while 16 persons were referred to King Georges Medial University (KGMU) for treatment, some were also admitted to Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences and Balrampur hospital in the state capital as well for treatment. Meanwhile, UP excise minister Jai Pratap Singh cracked the whip suspending Brabanki District Excise Officer Shiv Narayan Dubey, excise inspector Ram Teerath Maurya, three head constables and five constables of excise department deployed in the circle. Moreover, taking action against district police officials, UP DGP OP Singh suspended Ramnagar Circle Officer Pawan Gautam and Ramnagar inspector Rajesh Kumar for laxity in checking the sale of spurious liquor in the area. Four among those who died belonged to one family. In fact, three of them Ramesh Kumar, 35, Sonu, 25 and Mukesh, 28 --were siblings. Even their father Chhotelal also lost his life after consuming liquor with sons. There is no one left in the family to take the mortal remains of deceased for cremation, said deceased Rameshs wife Ramawati. Moreover, others who died included Sonu of Akhora village, Surya Bhan, 35, of Pipri Mahar village, Rajendra Verma of Umri village, Mahendra of Semrai village and his namesake of Tatehara village also died after consuming the same liquor. All the victims died during treatment. Meanwhile, the condition of Ravi Shankar, 30, of Raniganj village is said to be critical. On the other, three victims of the spurious liquor were referred to Lucknow Trauma Centre. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Kyrgyztan's capital Bishkek on June 14-15, where Pakistans Prime Minister Imran Khan is also expected to be present. However, there has been no official confirmation if the two leaders are set for a meeting during the visit. The MEA has invited Kyrgyzstan President Sooronbay Jeenbekov, who is the current chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, who was the chief guest at this year's Pravasi Bhartiya Divas for the swearing-in ceremony on May 30. Heads of State from Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal have also been invited; however, the MEA has been silent on any formal invitation to Pakistan so far. Reacting to the snub by India, Pakistans Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said, "Finding a new way to resume dialogue is also essential for them. If he wants development of this region the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. READ| Will attend oath-taking ceremony, says Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee after PM's invite "It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tensions," he added. Speaking on the lack of invitation to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan for Modi's swearing-in, Qureshi said, "India's internal politics did not permit him (Modi) to extend an invitation. His entire focus during the election campaign was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative." Qureshi added that PM Modi had congratulated Imran Khan after the latter won the general election in 2018. Khan had returned the favour by calling up Modi after the May 23 victory. Meanwhile, the Indian High Commission in Islamabad has extended an invitation to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and other top dignitaries for an iftar party on June 1. In 2014, the leaders of SAARC countries, including the then Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif, were invited for Modi's swearing-in. By PTI NEW DELHI: Amid reports of a rift between ruling coalition partners Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) in Karnataka, top Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad and AICC general secretary in-charge of the state K C Venugopal are rushing to Bengaluru to sort things out. Voices of dissent are gaining ground within the Congress as two of its MLAs met former Karnataka chief minister S M Krishna at his Bengaluru residence on Sunday. The coalition government in the southern state has been fragile since its inception with reports of its collapse surfacing every then and now. Following the drubbing of the Congress-JD(S) combine in the just-concluded Lok Sabha election, where the two parties managed to win only one seat each in Karnataka, a senior Congress leader has claimed that the state government will collapse after June 10. Of the 28 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka, the BJP bagged 25 and an Independent candidate won one. READ HERE | BJP in no hurry to form government in Karnataka Two Congress MLAs -- Ramesh Jarkiholi and Sudhakar -- met BJP leaders at Krishna's residence, though they later claimed that their visit was not political. Sources said Azad and Venugopal, two central leaders of the Congress, were going to Karnataka to placate the disgruntled state leaders, amid reports that the state unit of the party has convened a meeting of the Congress Legislature Party on May 29. Azad and Venugopal are likely to hold discussions with the top leaders of the party in the state in order to sort things out. READ HERE | In a last-ditch bid, Congress-JDS coalition to expand cabinet to quell dissent The BJP, with 105 members, is the single-largest party in the 225-member Karnataka Assembly. The ruling coalition has 117 members -- 79 of the Congress, 37 of the JD(S) and one of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). FOLLOW OUR FULL ELECTION COVERAGE HERE By Express News Service BENGALURU: The Congress-JDS coalition government has decided to expand the cabinet to quell dissent and keep its flock together. With disgruntled legislators like Ramesh Jarkiholi and K Sudhakar meeting BJP leaders at a time the coalition is under immense pressure to keep the government up and running, the two parties have decided to fill up three vacant cabinet berths. The JDS has two berths and the Congress has one. Sources say that the expansion could happen by the end of this week. After the Lok Sabha poll debacle, the coalition is taking all precautions to retain power. With 105 legislators, BJP in Karnataka is said to be confident of gaining the support of two independent MLAs and the disgruntled Congress leaders. The Congress-JDS coalition is considering inducting former minister and independent MLA R Shankar or another independent Nagesh. Other possible names doing the rounds are Congress Hirekerur MLA BC Patil, Ballari MLA Nagendra and JDS senior leader and MLC Basavaraj Horatti. While some sections of the coalition expect the exercise to see the dropping of a few ministers to accommodate sulking leaders, Congress Legislature Party chief Siddaramaiah said there were no such plans. There will be no reshuffle. There are three vacant berths as of now and we need to make appointments to those vacant berths. There is no plan of dropping anyone from the cabinet, Siddaramaiah told reporters in Mysuru. Congress sources say the party fears rising dissent if existing ministers are dropped to make space for rebel legislators. The JDS, however, is open to dropping a couple of ministers to make way for disappointed leaders. No Congress MLA will desert the party, says Siddaramaiah JDS had plans of dropping minister M C Managuli even before the Lok Sabha elections but had applied brakes on the thought. There are chances that some ministers may be dropped. They have been in power for a year now and they can make space for others, said a party source. The coalition partners are careful about the cabinet berths and appointments to boards and corporations unwilling to let the dissent snowball into a deeper crisis. With the BJP keen on not making a move until May 30 when the Prime Minister and the Union council of ministers take the oath of office, the coalition is hoping to make some quick amends. Not a single Congress MLA including Ramesh Jarkiholi will desert the party. BJP state chief B S Yeddyurappa has been claiming for the last one year that this government will fall and he will continue saying that for the next four years, Siddaramaiah said. Meanwhile, Mahesh Kumathalli, one of the disgruntled Congress legislators, met Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Monday. Speaking to reporters later, Kumathalli said, I had to discuss my constituency issues with the Chief Minister and he has assured to help. I am a Congress leader and we are all together. By Express News Service MANGALURU: BJP MP Nalin Kumar Kateel has written to Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj urging to help 34 youths from Dakshina Kannada who are stranded in Kuwait. In a letter to the minister, Nalin said: The youth have been taken to Kuwait after being promised jobs and good salaries. Now they have realised that they are conned. They neither got jobs nor salary from last 6 months. They are living under inhumane conditions. This youth hail from poor families and they are the sole bread-winners. They want to return to India. It is learnt that an agency in Kuwait is holding their original passports. (sic)Nalin attached passport details of the people and also the contact of one person who has complained to the Indian embassy in Kuwait. By Express News Service THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Congress supremo K M Mani who passed away last month was an unparalleled leader, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. On the first day of its monsoon session, the Assembly paid glowing tributes to the leader, who had served more than five decades as a legislator. In his obit reference, Speaker P Sreeramakrishnan termed Manis absence an irreparable loss. He used to present issues after in-depth studies. He always maintained a youngsters mind and was eager to learn, the Speaker said. Mani played a crucial role in changing the course of Keralas coalition politics, he added. Pinarayi said Mani holds a rare position in the Parliamentary history. He was a model for both young and senior legislators and his punctuality in the House should be followed by MLAs. His walkout speeches should be a model for legislators. Kerala has not seen such a great leader of coalition politics, said Opposition Leader Ramesh Chennithala. With a long 54 years as MLA, Mani had done a lot for the farmers. It was he who had introduced the agriculture labour pension. IUML leader M K Muneer recalled how Mani always maintained a soft corner for the downtrodden. Referring to the cochlear implant scheme that helped about 600 families, he said Mani was always willing to keep budgetary allocation for charity initiatives. It was Mani who first stressed on the need to have proper Centre-state relations, recalled KC(M) leader P J Joseph. BJP legislator O Rajagopal remembered Mani as a tactician who could overcome roadblocks when it comes to implementing new schemes. P C George, a known critic of Mani, urged the government to come up with a suitable memorial for Mani through the Parliamentary study centre in the Kerala Assembly. Restore Karunya scheme, UDF urges govt TPuram: A unified opposition urged the government to restore the Karunya Benevolent fund scheme, which is a brainchild of K M Mani, as a tribute to the late leader. The leaders underscored the need to bring back the Karunya scheme in its original form. Irrespective of political affiliations, leaders in the opposition bench including opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala, IUMLs M K Muneer, KC(M)s P J Joseph, KC(J)s Anoop Jacob, BJPs O Rajagopal and lone independent in the House P C George stressed on the need to maintain the scheme. Restoring the Karunya scheme would be the biggest tribute for K M Mani, said Chennithala while others too raised the same demand. KC(B)s Ganesh Kumar also pointed at how the scheme has been a major help to the patients. R Sivakumar By Express News Service VELLORE: The euphoria that rent the air until a few hours into the vote counting disappeared as the party candidates began to trail behind their opponents, despite the pendulum swinging in Dharmapuri at times before the final defeat. The PMK men wore a look of despondency with sagging spirit. This happens after about two months of chest beating and trumpeting of their might contributing to the winning prospects of their alliance. A shell-shocked PMK founder Dr S Ramadoss would have been riling over yet another wrong call made in choosing the alliance for a big-time fight at the hustings, given the record of past polls. The wound inflicted in the just-concluded general elections to the Lok Sabha, in which all its seven candidates including party scion Anbumani Ramadoss had to bite the dust, is so severe that it would take a longer time to heal. It has been the story of missing woods for the trees as far as PMK, the Vanniyar outfit, is concerned ever since 2009 Lok Sabha elections. After peaking to glory by winning elections in the company of either of the Dravidian majors and enjoying State power at the Centre, the downslide began a couple of years into the 2006 assembly elections. The party won a handsome, 18 seats, as part of DMK alliance and had so much clout in the government before turning against the DMK, which was in power though not having majority on its own. Switching over to AIADMK alliance in 2009 for the Lok Sabha elections ended in a big embarrassment as the party could not win even a single seat, soon followed parting ways. In two years time, PMK returned to DMK alliance to face the 2011 assembly polls in which it put up a very poor performance. Then followed the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Anbumani alone could win from Dharmapuri in the company of BJP and DMDK. The victory was more attributed to the raked up frenzy of the Vanniyar caste in the backdrop of the tragic death of Dalit youngster Ilavarasan. Emulating and replicating the methods of then US President Barack Obama and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the party juxtaposed Anbumani with a slogan of change, development and Anbumani. The gamble fetched no dividend. Eventually, the chief ministerial candidate himself could not muster support to win the elections. In 2019, the PMK made a somersault in forging alliance with the AIADMK, inviting the wrath of the public and the opposition parties, particularly the DMK whose efforts to woo it failed. Despite claiming to have sizable vote share hovering around 5 per cent, the party is inflicted with defeat after defeat. What ails the PMK? PMK is consistently taking a beating in the polls. It suffers from vulnerability to money, family interests and priorities and lack of mass connection, says Dr Ramu Manivannan, Head, Department of Politics and Public Administration, University of Madras. There is a big question on the partys winnability in elections. It has not performed better in five elections in a row -- three to Lok Sabha and two to the assembly ever since 2009. It is not able to win over newer sections of the society in favour its candidates to boost the victory prospects as the party plays the caste card aggressively against Dalits. Whipping up of the caste frenzy does not help the PMK. Frequent hopping of alliance is also playing against it with the youngsters questioning and ridiculing it. Erosion in its core vote bank of Vanniyar community is also a factor to reckon with. What is needed is a deep analysis of the failures and earnest self-introspection for a course correction. We are surely going to go into the factors that contributed to the loss. We will analyse all the factors relating to the poll outcome and find ways to further strengthen the party, said advocate K Balu, official spokesperson of the PMK. Informal assessment is going on right now. An overall review will be made soon, he added. However, political observers find it a herculean task to raise the party from the depths of the defeat. By PTI CHENNAI: DMK chief M K Stalin Tuesday requested Congress president Rahul Gandhi not to step down from his post, saying he has won the hearts of the people though his party lost the general election. Amid reports that Gandhi was firm on quitting, Stalin spoke to the Congress top leader over phone and "appealed to him to give up the idea of resigning as party president", the DMK said here. READ | Are you listening Rahul Gandhi? Thalaivar Rajinikanth wants you to stay Though the Congress party has suffered defeat in the Lok Sabha polls, "you have won the hearts of the people", Stalin told Gandhi, the party said. Rahul and his mother Sonia Gandhi greeted Stalin for the resounding victory of the DMK-led alliance in Tamil Nadu. READ | Ups and downs are common, Rahul should continue as Congress chief: Moily Stalin will participate in the swearing-in ceremony of YSR Congress Party chief Jaganmohan Reddy as Andhra Pradesh chief minister on May 30, the party added. The DMK-led front in Tamil Nadu won 37 of the 38 Lok Sabha seats. The election in the Vellore parliamentary constituency was cancelled by the EC citing abuse of money power. By PTI CHENNAI: Hindu Makkal Katchi founder-leader Arjun Sampath visited Sri Lanka and paid homage to the victims of the Easter Sunday serial blasts and those killed in the 2009 civil war, the Tamil Nadu based right wing outfit said Tuesday. Sampath embarked on a four-day "spiritual sojourn," to the island nation on May 23 and visited the Kandy Murugan temple, Sita eliya (temple), and also took part in an event at a Shiva temple in Jaffna. He paid homage to the civilian victims of the 2009 civil war between the government forces and the now defunct Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, the outfit said. Sampath also paid homage to the over 250 people killed in the serial blasts on April 21. READ HERE | Tamil Nadu-based Islamic outfit inspired Sri Lankan suicide bombers, claims Buddhist monk On May 28, he returned to Tamil Nadu, the HMK added. Arjun Sampath was earlier an Hindu Munnani (an RSS affiliate) functionary and later founded the Hindu Makkal Katchi. Last year, five men were arrested for plotting to eliminate him and his son Omkar Balaji. ALSO READ | Thousands gather to remember victims of civil war in Sri Lanka By Online Desk Confirming that he will be attending the oath-taking ceremony of PM-elect Narendra Modi, Tamil mega-star Rajinikanth hailed him as the "most charismatic leader after Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi." He is a charismatic leader. In India, after Jawaharlal Nehru and Rajiv Gandhi he is now a charismatic leader. I will be going for the swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi ji, he was quoted as saying by the Asian Age. When asked about Congress president Rahul Gandhi's decision to step down following the poll drubbing, Rajinikanth said: "He (Rahul Gandhi) should not resign. He should prove he can do it. In democracy, the opposition should also be strong." ALSO READ | Are you listening Rahul Gandhi? Thalaivar Rajinikanth wants you to stay Rajinikanth, whom Modi had met in the past during his visit to the city, had in December 2017 announced that he will indeed take the political plunge, by floating a party that would contest from all the 234 seats in Tamil Nadu in the next Assembly elections. Incidentally, commenting on the opposition uniting against Modi last year, the superstar had said the Prime Minister was 'stronger' than 10 persons aligning against him. (With agency inputs) By PTI DHAKA: Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid will attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in on May 30 during his three-day visit to India, a top presidential palace official said Tuesday. Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Huq will accompany the President as the senior most Cabinet member of the Bangladesh government, officials said. For a second time, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will not be able to represent Bangladesh at her Indian counterpart Modi's swearing-in as she will be on a three-nation foreign visit, the officials said. She could not attend the previous swearing-in ceremony of Modi in 2014 as she was abroad then too. Last time, Parliament Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury attended Modi's swearing-in. A Bangabhaban presidential palace spokesman said: "The senior most member of the current Cabinet, Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Huq, will accompany the Honourable President during his three-day India visit from May 29 to 31". During his visit, the President would pay a courtesy call on his Indian counterpart Ram Nath Kovind, Hamid's press secretary Joynal Abedin said. Hasina overnight rescheduled a 12-day tri-nation overseas tour without a 12-hour stopover in New Delhi where she was expected to have a meeting with her counterpart Modi on June 8. Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Hasina was one of the first foreign leaders to congratulate Modi following his election victory, reflecting the "extraordinarily close and cordial ties" between India and Bangladesh, and the excellent rapport that the two leaders enjoy. She also spoke to Modi last Thursday and said this "emphatic verdict is a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed on you by the people of the world's largest democracy." By PTI LAHORE: Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan visited Lahore as part of his trip to promote economic cooperation with the Punjab province, the largest and most developed region of Pakistan. He reached the provincial metropolis on Monday on a two-day trip to meet officials and visit Chinese investment centers in the province. Wang visited the Haier-Ruba Economic Zone in Lahore along with Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing and Consul General Long Dingbin on Monday. The Haier-Ruba zone, a major player in the domestic market, sells various consumer products. Wang also met Chief Minister Usman Buzdar and discussed how to increase cooperation with Punjab. The senior Chinese leader said that his government would welcome an economic cooperation between the Punjab government and the big provinces of China. Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar, who hosted dinner in the honour of Wang, said a new era of cooperation has started between Pakistan and China with his visit. Wang, a member of the politburo of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC), also visited Taxila archaeological museum where Buddhist artefacts from Gandhara civilisation are preserved. The senior Chinese leader, who arrived in Pakistan on Sunday for a three-day visit, met President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan. Various agreements have been signed in Islamabad after delegation-level talks between the two sides. The Pakistani officials said that the visit would expedite the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The CPEC, launched in 2015, is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea. By AFP RIO DE JANERIO: At least 40 inmates were killed in four jails in northern Brazil on Monday over an apparent gang dispute, authorities said, in the latest wave of violence to rock the country's severely overpopulated and deadly prison system. The victims appeared to have been killed by "asphyxiation," the Amazonas state government said in a statement, a day after 15 people were killed in one of the prisons. Officials had initially put the number of dead at 42, but later revised the number to 40. At least 25 of the victims were found in the Antonio Trindade Penal Institute near Manaus, the capital of Amazonas, where all four prisons are located. No guns or knives were used in the killings, which prison officials said appeared to have been sparked by a "rift between prisoners who belonged to the same criminal group and were involved in drug trafficking in the state." The federal government has dispatched reinforcements to boost security in the jails. "I just spoke with (Justice) Minister Sergio Moro, who is sending a prison intervention team to Amazonas so that he can help us in this moment of crisis," state Governor Wilson Lima said. An investigation launched into Sunday's mass killing at the Anisio Jobim Penal Complex, in which some of the prisoners were stabbed with sharpened toothbrushes during visiting hours, has been widened to include Monday's deaths. Four of those killed in the latest violence were found at the Anisio Jobim jail, which was also the scene of a prison rebellion that lasted almost 20 hours and left 56 people dead in January 2017. Another five were killed at the Provisional Detention Center for Men and six died at the Puraquequara Prison Unit. "The fact that the killings were coordinated across four separate prisons... suggests that this was a settling of scores," Robert Muggah, research director at the Igarape Institute think tank in Rio de Janeiro, told AFP. The latest violence in Amazonas, one of Brazil's most violent states, was "almost guaranteed to inspire retribution inside and outside the prison walls." 'Appalling' conditions Outbreaks of deadly violence are a recurring problem in Brazil's jails due to the lack of structural changes, experts said. "Prisons continue to be places of serious violations of human rights," said Juliana Melo, a professor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte. "The conditions are appalling, with a majority of prisoners poor, black, badly schooled and marginalized." Brazil has the world's third largest prison population after the United States and China, with 726,712 inmates as of June 2016, according to official statistics. The population is double the capacity of the nation's jails, which in the same year was estimated to be 368,049 inmates. The federal government had been expected to add another 115,000 inmates by the end of 2018, Human Rights Watch said in a recent report. Along with severe overcrowding and gang violence, riots and breakout attempts in Brazil's prisons are not uncommon. "Deaths in Brazil's prison system are shamefully recurrent," said Julita Lemgruber, a former director of Rio de Janeiro's penitentiary system and professor at Candido Mendes University. "They are recurrent because those who die are originally from the poorest sections of the population and are people who are not clear about their rights." While Muggah said there was no quick fix available for the system, the government needed to start by "drastically" reducing the number of pretrial detainees who currently make up 40 percent of the prison population. "Rather than imposing harsher sentencing laws and building new prisons, the public authorities need to enforce existing legislation - including ensuring suspects are provided with hearings within 24 hours of their arrest," he said. By PTI KARACHI: A Hindu veterinary doctor was arrested on Monday after a local cleric filed a police complaint accusing him of committing blasphemy in Pakistan's southern Sindh province. The doctor, identified as Ramesh Kumar, was taken into custody while angry protestors set fire to shops owned by Hindus and burnt tyres on road in Phuladyon town in Mirpurkhas district in the province, media reports said. The head cleric of the local mosque, Maulvi Ishaq Nohri, filed the complaint with the police alleging that the doctor had torn pages of a holy book and wrapped medicines in them. Zahid Hussain Leghari, the Station House Officer of the local police station, said that a case was registered against the doctor. Leghari said a proper investigation would be carried out and the doctor had been taken to a safe location after the unrest broke out in the town. A large number of Hindus reside in the interior of Sindh province and in Karachi and the Pakistan Hindu Council has complained in the past of minority community members being targeted under the blasphemy law by people because of personal enmity. At least 1,472 people were charged under Pakistan's blasphemy laws between 1987 and 2016, according to statistics collected by the Center for Social Justice, a Lahore-based advocacy group. Hindus form the biggest minority community in Pakistan. According to official estimates, 75 lakh Hindus live in Pakistan. However, according to the community, over 90 lakh Hindus are living in the country. Majority of Pakistan's Hindu population is settled in Sindh province where they share culture, traditions and language with their Muslim fellows. By PTI ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has tried to downplay India's decision not to invite Imran Khan for Narendra Modi's swearing-in on Thursday, claiming that the Indian Prime Minister's "internal politics" does not permit him to extend an invitation to his Pakistani counterpart. The government on Monday announced in New Delhi that it has invited leaders from BIMSTEC countries to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, leaving out Pakistan, which is not a part of the seven-member regional grouping. The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. Reacting to reports that India has not invited Prime Minister Khan to Prime Minister Modi's inauguration, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said a meeting for the sake of dialogue to find a solution to the Kashmir issue, as well as Siachen and Sir Creek disputes, would have been a significant measure instead of attending the swearing-in ceremony. "His (Prime Minister Modi's) entire focus (during the election campaign) was on Pakistan-bashing. It was unwise to expect that he can get rid of this narrative (soon)," Qureshi was quoted as saying by Dawn news. "India's internal politics did not permit him to extend an invitation," he said. Modi and Khan are scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan next month. In 2014, then Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif had attended Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in held on May 26 in New Delhi when the leaders of SAARC countries were invited. Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Qureshi said Modi had congratulated Khan after he won the general election last year and wrote a letter as well. Prime Minister Khan, breaking the ice in bilateral ties, spoke to his Indian counterpart Modi on Sunday and expressed his desire to work together for the betterment of their peoples. "Relations between the countries were based on reciprocity and PM Khan had congratulated Mr Modi as a goodwill gesture," the Pakistani foreign minister said. "Finding a new way (to resume dialogue) is also essential for them (India). If he (Modi) wants development of this region... the only way is to sit with Pakistan to find a solution. "It is in the interest of Pakistan to defuse tensions... Pakistan did not create tension," Qureshi said. Prime Minister Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. By PTI LAHORE: A team of Pakistan's top anti-graft body has quizzed deposed Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in Kot Lakhpat Jail for over two hours over the illegal purchase and use of more than 30 bulletproof government vehicles from Germany. A four-member National Accountability Bureau (NAB) team arrived at the Kot Lakhpat Jail (Lahore Central Prison) where the 69-year-old Sharif is serving a seven-year sentence awarded to him in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case. A source told Dawn that Sharif insisted upon being given a questionnaire, to which he would reply with the help of his legal counsel. Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and Nawaz's daughter, confirmed the investigation by the NAB team in jail where the former prime minister is being held since December 2018 after his conviction. In a message on her Twitter account on Monday, Maryam rubbished the investigation, point fingers at "fake Prime Minister" Imran Khan who used the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government's helicopter for personal use was above the law. Earlier reports said the NAB team will record the three-time prime minister's statement in the case of an alleged import of 34 bulletproof vehicles from Germany without payment of customs duty on any of them. The anti-graft body said the cars were purchased without duty for guests of the 19th SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) summit in 2016, Geo News reported. The SAARC Summit, however, did not take place as India boycotted the meeting after the Uri terror attack. Later, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Maldives also pulled out of the summit, culminating in an indefinite postponement of the summit. According to the NAB, Sharif added 20 of those 34 cars to his own motorcade, and he and his daughter Maryam Nawaz also used the bulletproof vehicles for their personal use. Former Prime Minister and a member of the PML-N Shahid Khaqan Abbasi's statement has already been recorded, it said. The anti-graft body also said that officers associated with the foreign ministry misused their authority by allocating the bulletproof cars for the Sharif's family. 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. By PTI L)ONDON: Pakistani-origin UK home secretary Sajid Javid on Monday became the ninth contender for the post of British prime minister as he confirmed his intention to contest the Conservative Party leadership race starting next month. The senior-most minister in the UK Cabinet made the announcement with a video message posted on Twitter, calling for people to join 'Team Saj'. "I'm standing to be the next leader of Conservatives & Prime Minister of our great country," read his statement. "We need to restore trust, bring unity and create new opportunities across the UK. First and foremost, we must deliver Brexit. Join Team Saj to help me do just that," he said. Im standing to be the next leader of the @Conservatives & Prime Minister of our great country. We need to restore trust, bring unity and create new opportunities across the UK. First and foremost, we must deliver Brexit - @sajidjavid Join @TeamSaj to help us do just that. pic.twitter.com/LqWHidWp0M TeamSaj (@TeamSaj) May 27, 2019 Javid(49) becomes the latest candidate to throw their hat in the ring to enter Downing Street since Theresa May announced her intention to step down as Conservative leader and therefore as British PM on June 7. A formal Tory party election process will kick off from June 10, with former foreign secretary Boris Johnson seen as a frontrunner for the PM post. Others in the fray include Cabinet ministers Michael Gove, Rory Stewart, Jeremy Hunt and Matt Hancock and former ministers Dominic Raab, Esther McVey and Andrea Leadsom. With the European Parliament election results throwing up a massive bruising for the Conservative Party and major wins for the newly-formed Brexit Party, all the leadership contenders are expected to focus all their attention on the delivery mechanism for Britain's exit from the European Union (EU). "Hugely disappointing results - but this is a verdict on our delivery of Brexit. There's a clear lesson: people want us to get on with it. Not another election or referendum asking if changed their mind. We'll need to unite as a party to deliver that. There are no other options," said Javid, who often highlights his humble roots as the son of Pakistani migrants whose father was a bus driver. The investment banker-turned-politician has also found strong backing from within the British-Indian community and most recently called for closer India-UK ties at the annual Conservative Friends of India (CFIN) event. "The new (post-Brexit) immigration system will be a skills-based system, which means it will not be based on nationality. It means that we will be even more open once we have left the EU to welcome even more of India's brightest and best," he said earlier this month. Javid will now go head to head with the other contenders within the party before the list is whittled down by party MPs down to two that will clash in a vote put to the wider Tory membership from across the UK. The winner of the vote is expected to take charge as Tory leader and the new British PM in July. By ANI MOSCOW: Four Russian journalists were stabbed by a 70-year-old man for allegedly not publishing an article on former Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, police said on Monday. The incident took place in the editorial office of Radina newspaper, located in Russia's southern city of Stavropol. The suspect arrived at the office on Monday and asked to meet the editor-in-chief Nikolai Bondarenko, reports The Moscow Times. Bondarenko's daughter Svetlana Bondarenko told Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta that the attack was carried out in retribution for the newspaper's refusal to print his article on Stalin. "When he was told that the [editorial] board would make a decision [on whether to publish the article or not], he took out a hunting knife and attacked the editor-in-chief," said Viktor Lozovoy, a regional lawmaker. The newspaper's employees said that the attacker had visited the editorial office a few times before to get his articles published, but was unsuccessful, reports Russia Today. Three journalists escaped the incident with minor injuries, while Bondarenko was hospitalised. The attacker later told the police that he had planned to kill the editor-in-chief "for Stalin" and "to spark public outcry." By Associated Press TOKYO: President Donald Trump is giving Memorial Day remarks to more than 800 members of the US military aboard the USS Wasp stationed in Japan. Trump called them the "daring and mighty warriors in the Pacific" Ocean. He says the US-Japan alliance has never been stronger. Trump says the United States endures because of brave men and women who are willing to sacrifice to defend the nation. First lady Melania Trump introduced the president and the US forces shouted "USA USA". A fighter plane, illuminated with red, white and blue lights, was parked nearby. Just before landing aboard the ship, he flew Marine One to a Japanese destroyer to meet with Japanese forces. President Donald Trump had an American-style greeting for Japanese forces when he saw them aboard their warship near Tokyo. Trump told them "Happy Memorial Day!" - a message that seemed more fitting for Americans back home who were honoring those killed while defending the United States. Aboard the Japanese JS Kaga destroyer, Trump said, "I want to start by saying happy Memorial Day. " Also aboard were first lady Melania Trump, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his wife, Akie. It was the last day of Trump's four-day trip to Japan. After leaving the ship, he and Mrs. Trump flew by helicopter to their next stop aboard the USS Wasp, anchored nearby. President Donald Trump landed aboard a Japanese destroyer south of Tokyo where he was greeted by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Japanese forces. Speaking on the deck of the JS Kaga docked at Yokosuka, Abe spoke of the strong alliance between the United States and Japan. Abe says the fact that he and Trump are standing together on the ship is evidence of the "robust" nature of that alliance. Trump, who was joined by first lady Melania Trump, thanked the Japanese forces and said they had been honored to meet Japan's new emperor and empress. He also sent condolences to those injured when a man swinging a knife attacked commuters waiting at a crowded bus stop on Tuesday just outside Tokyo, injuring 19 people. President Donald Trump will be heading home from Japan Tuesday after stopping aboard a US warship to give a Memorial Day speech to US forces. Trump will land aboard on two vessels near a base in nearby Yokosuka. One is the Japanese destroyer JS Kaga where he'll be joined by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The other is the USS Wasp, a multipurpose amphibious assault ship where he'll deliver Memorial Day remarks to the troops. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako also are expected to visit with Trump and first lady Melania Trump. The US honored its fallen on Memorial Day on Monday. Trump has been criticized for skipping visits to cemeteries to honor US troops, but he placed flags on graves in Arlington Cemetery last week before leaving for Japan. One of Editor & Publishers 10 That Do It Right 2021 Former CEO of Lynch, Jones & Ryan brokerage now works to improve the business district of Fifth Avenue in New York City. It is the States case that on May 14 this year, Ayobi parked his vehicle a Toyota Noah at Beverly Sky, Avondale in Harare before locking windows and doors. During the same period, Robinson, acting in connivance with his accomplices, Canaan Madamombe, Kudakwashe Ernest and one only known as Dumi, proceeded to the complainants vehicle and smashed the window and stole a black empty bag and went away. Some (forex dealers) are known and Government is seized with it and there are investigations going on. There is certainly some big sharks who are throwing money; the young people when you got to see them in the streets, they dont even have shoes some of them and to think that by arresting those ones then you would have dealt with the problem (is not correct), said Minister Mutsvangwa. ZIMBABWE is poised for economic boom and transformation on the back of practical measures unveiled by the Second Republic led by President Mnangagwa to revive the economy, visiting Tanzanian President Dr John Magufuli has said. Dr Magufuli said Zimbabwes economy had already registered growth since President Mnangagwa took over and implored the West to remove illegal sanctions for the country to realise its full potential. The Tanzanian leader, who is on a two-day official visit, said this at a banquet held in his honour by President Mnangagwa at State House. Allow me, Your Excellency, to take this opportunity to commend you and dear brother for the effort you are making to revive the economy and bring about social economic development and transformation in your great country. Indeed, since you took over the office of the President Zimbabwe has recorded very important milestones; investment has increased, while the fiscal deficit has been reduced. In this respect, I am particularly pleased to know that the last economic performance was better than what was expected. I was just reading some of the information, it grew by 3,5 percent and this year it is expected to grow by 4,2 percent and next year it is expected to grow by 4,4 percent. Of course, you cannot measure the growth physically, and normally during the transition period people never feel the changes, but I can assure you, Your Excellency, you are doing the best, said President Magufuli. And, of course, during transformations, especially during the transition period, some non-believers are always there. I am sure the message has been sent and delivered. I am sure that if this achievement will be sustained and continued and with the support of the international community Zimbabwe will soon assume its rightful place. Dr Magufuli implored the United States and the European Union (EU) to lift sanctions and called for Western ambassadors accredited to Zimbabwe to convey the message to their capitals, that the embargo were hurting ordinary people. In this respect I wish to call upon the international community to lift sanctions on Zimbabwe. Indeed the country has opened a new chapter and it is ready to engage with the rest of the world. I know I am here with ambassadors and high commissioners this should be the humble request for them because, the effect of this embargo is affecting the poor people, children, women old men of Zimbabwe but it is also affecting you ambassadors with your families because you are here in Zimbabwe, he said. Dr Magufuli said it was high time to transform the two countries bilateral relations from political to economical and to that end, he held discussions with President Mnangagwa on how to achieve that. I am delighted that this afternoon, President Mnangagwa and myself held discussions about enhancing further these relations. Among the things we discussed and agreed to do better in advancing economic relations. This is because for far too long our relations has been dominated by political issues with little attention being given to economic matters. Our two countries have therefore agreed to consolidate our economic cooperation in order to give practical meaning to our political cooperation. To this end we have agreed to increase trade and promote investment flow between us. We have also agreed to share experiences and best practices in the management and utilisation of our natural resources, he said. Earlier on President Mnangagwa said during their discussions, President Magufuli had advised him that biometric registration was the best was to deal with the perennial problem of ghost workers. I would like to share with you the wisdom I received tonight from His Excellency. We have here (Public Service Commission chairperson) Dr (Vincent) Hungwe, here is the advice, we always here about ghost workers. In Tanzania they fought the issue of ghost workers. They demanded everybody to go through biometric, so if you are a ghost worker you cannot come before a camera. And through that 34 000 ghost workers were in the service and were cleansed out through that method. So Dr Hungwe here is the advice, said President Mnangagwa. He commended Tanzania for being the first country that came forward to assist Zimbabwe when it was ravaged by Cyclone Idai in March this year which saw more than 300 people dead, others displaced and a trail of destruction of property. Dr Magufuli was welcomed at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport by President Mnangagwa, Vice President Kembo Mohadi, several Cabinet Ministers, service chiefs diplomats accredited to Zimbabwe and senior Government officials. He was also accompanied by Mr Makongoro Nyerere, son to Tanzanias founding president Julius Mwalimu Nyerere.